#TITLE:Geneva Bible Notes, 1599
#SHORT:Geneva Notes
#ID:15
#CATEGORY:COMMENTARY
#AUTOPARAGRAPH
#REM:AC,18-Oct-2022: Cleanup and mark BCV headers as BCVs
#REM:AC,16-Feb-2025: More cleanup
This document is from the Christian Classics Ethereal Library at Calvin College, http://www.ccel.org

<h1>Genesis</h1>

<h2>Genesis 1</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 1:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 1:1>Genesis 1:1</verse></h3>
In the (a) beginning God created the heaven and the earth.

The Argument - Moses in effect declares three things, which are in this book chiefly to be
considered: First, that the world and all things in it were created by God, and to praise his Name for
the infinite graces, with which he had endued him, fell willingly from God through disobedience,
who yet for his own mercies sake restored him to life, and confirmed him in the same by his
promise of Christ to come, by whom he should overcome Satan, death and hell. Secondly, that the
wicked, unmindful of God's most excellent benefits, remained still in their wickedness, and so falling
most horribly from sin to sin, provoked God (who by his preachers called them continually to
repentance) at length to destroy the whole world. Thirdly, he assures us by the examples of
Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the rest of the patriarchs, that his mercies never fail those whom he
chooses to be his Church, and to profess his Name in earth, but in all their afflictions and
persecutions he assists them, sends comfort, and delivers them, so that the beginning, increase,
preservation and success of it might be attributed to God only. Moses shows by the examples of
Cain, Ishmael, Esau and others, who were noble in man's judgment, that this Church depends not
on the estimation and nobility of the world: and also by the fewness of those, who have at all times
worshipped him purely according to his word that it stands not in the multitude, but in the poor and
despised, in the small flock and little number, that man in his wisdom might be confounded, and the
name of God praised forever.

(a) First of all, and before any creature was, God made heaven and earth out of nothing.

#BCV:Genesis 1:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 1:2>Genesis 1:2</verse></h3>

And the earth was (b) without form, and void; and (c) darkness [was] upon the face of the deep.
And the Spirit of God (d) moved upon the face of the waters.

(b) As an unformed lump and without any creature in it: for the waters covered everything.

(c) Darkness covered the deep waters, for the waters covered everything.

(d) He maintained this disordered mass by his secret power.

#BCV:Genesis 1:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 1:3>Genesis 1:3</verse></h3>

<page=2>And God said, Let there be light: and there was (e) light.

(e) The light was made before either Sun or Moon was created: therefore we must not attribute that
to the creatures that are God's instruments, which only belong to God.

#BCV:Genesis 1:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 1:7>Genesis 1:7</verse></h3>

And God made the firmament, and divided the waters which [were] (f) under the firmament from
the waters which [were] above the firmament: and it was so.

(f) As the sea and rivers, from those waters that are in the clouds, which are upheld by God's power,
least they should overwhelm the world.

#BCV:Genesis 1:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 1:8>Genesis 1:8</verse></h3>

And God called the firmament (g) Heaven. And the evening and the morning were the second day.


(g) That is, the region of the air, and all that is above us.

#BCV:Genesis 1:11
<h3><verse=Genesis 1:11>Genesis 1:11</verse></h3>


And God said, (h) Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, [and] the fruit tree yielding
fruit after his kind, whose seed [is] in itself, upon the earth: and it was so.


(h) So that we see it is the only the power of God's word that makes the earth fruitful, which
naturally is barren.

#BCV:Genesis 1:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 1:12>Genesis 1:12</verse></h3>


And the earth brought forth grass, [and] herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit,
whose seed [was] in itself, after his kind: and God (i) saw that [it was] good.


(i) This sentence is often repeated, to signify that God made all his creatures to serve for his glory
and for the profit of man: but because of sin they were cursed, yet the elect, by Christ are restored,
and serve to their wealth.

#BCV:Genesis 1:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 1:14>Genesis 1:14</verse></h3>


And God said, Let there be (k) lights in the firmament of the heaven to (l) divide the day from the
night; and let them be for (m) signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years:


(k) By the lights be means the sun, the moon, and the stars.


(l) Which is the artificial day, from the sun rising, to the going down.

<page=3>(m) Of things belonging to natural and political orders and seasons.

#BCV:Genesis 1:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 1:16>Genesis 1:16</verse></h3>


And God made two great (n) lights; the greater light to (o) rule the day, and the lesser light to rule
the night: [he made] the stars also.


(n) That is, the sun and the moon, and here he speaks as man judges by his eye: for else the moon is
less than the planet Saturn.


(o) To give it sufficient light, as instruments appointed for the same, to serve man's purposes.

#BCV:Genesis 1:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 1:20>Genesis 1:20</verse></h3>


And God said, Let the waters bring forth abundantly the (p) moving creature that hath life, and fowl
[that] may fly above the earth in the open firmament of heaven.


(p) As fish and worms which slide, swim or creep.
#BCV:Genesis 1:21
<h3><verse=Genesis 1:21>Genesis 1:21</verse></h3>


And God created great whales, and every living creature that moveth, which the (q) waters brought
forth abundantly, after their kind, and every winged fowl after his kind: and God saw that [it was]
good.


(q) The fish and fowls had both one beginning, in which we see that nature gives place to God's will,
in that the one sort is made to fly about in the air, and the other to swim beneath in the water.

#BCV:Genesis 1:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 1:22>Genesis 1:22</verse></h3>


And God (r) blessed them, saying, Be fruitful, and multiply, and fill the waters in the seas, and let
fowl multiply in the earth.


(r) That is, by the virtue of his word he gave power to his creatures to reproduce.

#BCV:Genesis 1:26
<h3><verse=Genesis 1:26>Genesis 1:26</verse></h3>


And God said, (s) Let us make man in our (t) image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion
over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and
over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.


(s) God commanded the water and the earth to bring forth other creatures: but of man he says, "Let
us make..." signifying that God takes counsel with his wisdom and virtue purposing to make an
excellent work above all the rest of his creation.

<page=4>(t) This image and likeness of God in man is expounded in (<bcv=Eph 4:24>Eph 4:24</bcv>) where it is written that man
was created after God in righteousness and true holiness meaning by these two words, all perfection,
as wisdom, truth, innocency, power, etc.

#BCV:Genesis 1:28
<h3><verse=Genesis 1:28>Genesis 1:28</verse></h3>


And God (u) blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the
earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and
over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.


(u) The propagation.

#BCV:Genesis 1:29
<h3><verse=Genesis 1:29>Genesis 1:29</verse></h3>


And God said, Behold, I have given you (x) every herb bearing seed, which [is] upon the face of all
the earth, and every tree, in the which [is] the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.


(x) God's great.

<h2>Genesis 2</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 2:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 2:1>Genesis 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=5>Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the (a) host of them.


(a) That is, the innumerable abundance of creatures in heaven and earth.
#BCV:Genesis 2:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 2:2>Genesis 2:2</verse></h3>



And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he (b) rested on the seventh
day from all his work which he had made.



(b) For he had now finished his creation, but his providence still watches over his creatures and
governs them.
#BCV:Genesis 2:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 2:3>Genesis 2:3</verse></h3>



And God blessed the seventh day, and (c) sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his
work which God created and made.



(c) Appointed it to be kept holy, that man might in it consider the excellency of his works and God's
goodness toward him.
#BCV:Genesis 2:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 2:5>Genesis 2:5</verse></h3>



And every plant of the field before it was in the earth, and every herb of the field before it grew: for
the LORD God had not caused it to (d) rain upon the earth, and [there was] not a man to till the
ground.

(d) God only opens the heavens and shuts them, he sends drought and rain according to his good
pleasure.
#BCV:Genesis 2:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 2:7>Genesis 2:7</verse></h3>

And the LORD God formed man (e) [of] the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the
breath of life; and man became a living soul.

(e) He shows what man's body was created from, to the intent that man should not glory in the
excellency of his own nature.
#BCV:Genesis 2:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 2:8>Genesis 2:8</verse></h3>

<page=6>And the LORD God planted a garden eastward in (f) Eden; and there he put the man whom he had
formed.

(f) This was the name of a place, as some think in Mesopotamia, most pleasant and abundant in all
things.
#BCV:Genesis 2:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 2:9>Genesis 2:9</verse></h3>

And out of the ground made the LORD God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and
good for food; the (g) tree of life also in the midst of the garden, (h) and the tree of knowledge of
good and evil.



(g) Who was a sign of the life received from God.



(h) That is, of miserable experience, which came by disobeying God.
#BCV:Genesis 2:11
<h3><verse=Genesis 2:11>Genesis 2:11</verse></h3>



The name of the first [is] Pison: that [is] it which compasseth the whole land (i) of Havilah, where
[there is] gold;



(i) Havilah is a country adjoining Persia to the east, and inclining towards the west.
#BCV:Genesis 2:15
<h3><verse=Genesis 2:15>Genesis 2:15</verse></h3>



And the LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to (k) dress it and to keep
it.



(k) God would not have man idle, though as yet there was no need to labour.
#BCV:Genesis 2:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 2:16>Genesis 2:16</verse></h3>



And the LORD God (l) commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest
freely eat:



(l) So that man might know there was a sovereign Lord, to whom he owed obedience.
#BCV:Genesis 2:17
<h3><verse=Genesis 2:17>Genesis 2:17</verse></h3>



But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou
eatest thereof thou shalt surely (m) die.



(m) By death he means the separation of man from God, who is our life and chief happiness: and
also that our disobedience is the cause of it.
#BCV:Genesis 2:19
<h3><verse=Genesis 2:19>Genesis 2:19</verse></h3>

<page=7>And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air;
and brought [them] unto (n) Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called
every living creature, that [was] the name thereof.



(n) By moving them to come and submit themselves to Adam.
#BCV:Genesis 2:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 2:22>Genesis 2:22</verse></h3>



And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a (o) woman, and brought her
unto the man.



(o) Signifying that mankind was perfect, when the woman was created, who before was like an
imperfect building.
#BCV:Genesis 2:24
<h3><verse=Genesis 2:24>Genesis 2:24</verse></h3>



Therefore shall a man leave (p) his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they
shall be one flesh.



(p) So marriage requires a greater duty of us toward our wives, than otherwise we are bound to show
to our parents.
#BCV:Genesis 2:25
<h3><verse=Genesis 2:25>Genesis 2:25</verse></h3>



And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not (q) ashamed.



(q) For before sin entered, all things were honest and comely.

<h2>Genesis 3</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 3:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:1>Genesis 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=8>Now the serpent was more (a) subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made.
And he (b) said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?


(a) As Satan can change himself into an angel of light, so did he abuse the wisdom of the serpent to
deceive man.



(b) God allowed Satan to make the serpent his instrument and to speak through him.
#BCV:Genesis 3:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:3>Genesis 3:3</verse></h3>



But of the fruit of the tree which [is] in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of
it, neither shall ye touch it, (c) lest ye die.



(c) In doubting God's warnings she yielded to Satan.
#BCV:Genesis 3:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:4>Genesis 3:4</verse></h3>



And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely (d) die:



(d) This is Satan's chiefest subtilty, to cause us not to fear God's warnings.
#BCV:Genesis 3:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:5>Genesis 3:5</verse></h3>



For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as
gods, (e) knowing good and evil.



(e) As though he said, God forbids you to eat of the fruit, only because he knows that if you eat of
it, you will be like him.
#BCV:Genesis 3:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:6>Genesis 3:6</verse></h3>



And when the woman saw that the tree [was] good for food, and that it [was] pleasant to the eyes,
and a tree to be desired to make [one] wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also
unto her husband with her; and he (f) did eat.



(f) Not so much to please his wife, as moved by ambition at her persuasion.
#BCV:Genesis 3:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:7>Genesis 3:7</verse></h3>

<page=9>And the eyes of them both were opened, and they (g) knew that they [were] naked; and they sewed
fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons.



(g) They began to feel their misery, but they did not seek God for a remedy.
#BCV:Genesis 3:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:8>Genesis 3:8</verse></h3>



And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and
Adam and his wife (h) hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of
the garden.



(h) The sinful conscience flees God's presence.
#BCV:Genesis 3:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:10>Genesis 3:10</verse></h3>



And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I [was] (i) naked; and I hid
myself.



(i) His hypocrisy appears in that he hid the cause of his nakedness, which was the transgression of
God's commandment.
#BCV:Genesis 3:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:12>Genesis 3:12</verse></h3>


And the man said, The woman whom thou (k) gavest [to be] with me, she gave me of the tree, and I
did eat.


(k) His wickedness and lack of true repentance appears in this that he blamed God because he had
given him a wife.

#BCV:Genesis 3:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:13>Genesis 3:13</verse></h3>


And the LORD God said unto the woman, What [is] this [that] thou hast done? And the woman
said, (l) The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat.


(l) Instead of confessing her sin, she increases it by accusing the serpent.

#BCV:Genesis 3:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:14>Genesis 3:14</verse></h3>


And the LORD God said unto the serpent, (m) Because thou hast done this, thou [art] cursed above
all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and (n) dust shalt thou eat
all the days of thy life:


(m) He asked the reason from Adam and his wife, because he would bring them to repentance, but
he does not ask the serpent, because he would show him no mercy.

<page=10>(n) As a vile and contemptible beast, (<bcv=isa 65:25>Isa 65:25</bcv>).

#BCV:Genesis 3:15
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:15>Genesis 3:15</verse></h3>


And I will put enmity between (o) thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall
bruise thy (p) head, and thou shalt (q) bruise his heel.


(o) He chiefly means Satan, by whose action and deceit the serpent deceived the woman.


(p) That is, the power of sin and death.


(q) Satan shall sting Christ and his members, but not overcome them.

#BCV:Genesis 3:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:16>Genesis 3:16</verse></h3>


Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy (r) sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou
shalt bring forth children; and thy desire [shall be] to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee.


(r) The Lord comforts Adam by the promise of the blessed seed, and also punishes the body for the
sin which the soul should have been punished for; that the spirit having conceived hope of
forgiveness might live by faith. (<bcv=1Co 14:34>1Co 14:34</bcv>).

#BCV:Genesis 3:17
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:17>Genesis 3:17</verse></h3>


And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of
the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: (s) cursed [is] the ground for
thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat [of] it all the days of thy life;


(s) The transgression of God's commandment was the reason that both mankind and all other
creatures were subject to the curse.

#BCV:Genesis 3:18
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:18>Genesis 3:18</verse></h3>


(t) Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field;


(t) These are not the natural fruit of the earth, but proceed from the corruption of sin.

#BCV:Genesis 3:21
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:21>Genesis 3:21</verse></h3>


Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God (u) make coats of skins, and clothed them.


(u) Or, gave them knowledge to make themselves coats.
#BCV:Genesis 3:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 3:22>Genesis 3:22</verse></h3>

<page=11>And the LORD God said, (x) Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and
now, lest he put forth his hand, and (y) take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever:



(x) By this derision by reproaches Adam's misery, into which he was fallen by ambition.



(y) Adam deprived of life, lost also the sign of it.

<h2>Genesis 4</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 4:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 4:1>Genesis 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=12>And Adam knew Eve his wife; and she (a) conceived, and bare Cain, and said, I have gotten a man

(b) from the LORD.



(a) Man's nature, the estate of marriage, and God's blessing were not utterly abolished through sin,
but the quality or condition of it was changed.



(b) That is, according to the Lord's promise, as some read (<bcv=Gen 3:15>Gen 3:15</bcv>), "To the Lord" rejoicing for the
son she had born, whom she would offer to the Lord as the first fruits of her birth.
#BCV:Genesis 4:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 4:3>Genesis 4:3</verse></h3>



And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an (c) offering
unto the LORD.



(c) This declares that the father instructed his children in the knowledge of God, and also how God
gave them sacrifices to signify their salvation, though they were destitute of the ordinance of the
tree of life.
#BCV:Genesis 4:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 4:7>Genesis 4:7</verse></h3>



If thou doest well, shalt thou not be (e) accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the (f) door.
And unto thee [shall be] his (g) desire, and thou shalt rule over him.



(e) Both you and your sacrifice shall be acceptable to me.



(f) Sin will still torment your conscience.



(g) The dignity of the first born is given to Cain over Abel.
#BCV:Genesis 4:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 4:9>Genesis 4:9</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Cain, Where [is] Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not: (h) [Am] I my
brother's keeper?



(h) This is the nature of the reprobate when they are rebuke for their hypocrisy, even to neglect God
and outrage him.
#BCV:Genesis 4:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 4:10>Genesis 4:10</verse></h3>

<page=13>And he said, What hast thou done? the (i) voice of thy brother's blood crieth unto me from the
ground.



(i) God avenges the wrongs against his saints, though no one complains: for the iniquity itself cries
for vengeance.
#BCV:Genesis 4:11
<h3><verse=Genesis 4:11>Genesis 4:11</verse></h3>



And now [art] thou cursed (k) from the earth, which hath opened her mouth to receive thy brother's
blood from thy hand;



(k) The earth will be a witness against you, which mercifully received the blood you most cruelly
shed.
#BCV:Genesis 4:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 4:12>Genesis 4:12</verse></h3>



When thou tillest the ground, it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength; a (l) fugitive and a
vagabond shalt thou be in the earth.



(l) You will never have rest for your heart will be in continual fear and worry.
#BCV:Genesis 4:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 4:13>Genesis 4:13</verse></h3>



And Cain said unto the LORD, (m) My punishment [is] greater than I can bear.



(m) He burdens God as a cruel judge because he punished him so severely.
#BCV:Genesis 4:15
<h3><verse=Genesis 4:15>Genesis 4:15</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto him, Therefore whosoever slayeth Cain, (n) vengeance shall be taken on
him sevenfold. And the LORD set a (o) mark upon Cain, lest any finding him should kill him.



(n) Not for the love he had for Cain, but to suppress murder.



(o) Which was some visible sign of God's judgment, that others should fear by it.
#BCV:Genesis 4:17
<h3><verse=Genesis 4:17>Genesis 4:17</verse></h3>



And Cain knew his wife; and she conceived, and bare Enoch: and he builded a (p) city, and called the
name of the city, after the name of his son, Enoch.



(p) Thinking by this to be safe, and to have less reason to fear God's judgments against him.
#BCV:Genesis 4:19
<h3><verse=Genesis 4:19>Genesis 4:19</verse></h3>

<page=14>And Lamech took unto him (q) two wives: the name of the one [was] Adah, and the name of the
other Zillah.


(q) The lawful institution of marriage, which is, that two should be one flesh, was first corrupted in
the house of Cain by Lamech.
#BCV:Genesis 4:23
<h3><verse=Genesis 4:23>Genesis 4:23</verse></h3>



And Lamech said unto his wives, Adah and Zillah, Hear my voice; ye wives of Lamech, hearken
unto my speech: (r) for I have slain a man to my wounding, and a young man to my hurt.



(r) His wives seeing that all men hated him for his cruelty, were afraid, therefore he brags that there
is none strong enough to resist, even though he was already wounded.
#BCV:Genesis 4:24
<h3><verse=Genesis 4:24>Genesis 4:24</verse></h3>



If Cain shall be avenged sevenfold, truly Lamech (s) seventy and sevenfold.



(s) He mocked at God's tolerance in Cain jesting as though God would allow no one to punish him
and yet give him permission to murder others.
#BCV:Genesis 4:26
<h3><verse=Genesis 4:26>Genesis 4:26</verse></h3>



And to Seth, to him also there was born a son; and he called his name Enos: then began men to (t)
call upon the name of the LORD.



(t) In these days God began to move the hearts of the godly to restore religion, which had been
suppressed by the wicked for a long time.

<h2>Genesis 5</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 5:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 5:1>Genesis 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=15>This [is] the book of the generations of Adam. In the day that God created man, in the (a) likeness
of God made he him;


(a) Read (<bcv=Gen 1:26>Gen 1:26</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 5:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 5:2>Genesis 5:2</verse></h3>



Male and female created he them; and blessed them, and called their name (b) Adam, in the day
when they were created.



(b) By giving them both one name, he notes the inseparable conjunction of man and wife.
#BCV:Genesis 5:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 5:3>Genesis 5:3</verse></h3>



And Adam lived an hundred and thirty years, and begat [a son] in his own (c) likeness, after his
image; and called his name Seth:



(c) As well, concerning his creation, as his corruption.
#BCV:Genesis 5:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 5:6>Genesis 5:6</verse></h3>



And (d) Seth lived an hundred and five years, and begat Enos:



(d) He proves Adam's generation by those who came from Seth, to show the true Church, and also
what care God had over the same from the beginning, in that he continued his graces toward it by a
continual succession.
#BCV:Genesis 5:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 5:8>Genesis 5:8</verse></h3>



And all the days of Seth were (e) nine hundred and twelve years: and he died.



(e) The main reason for long life in the first age, was the multiplication of mankind, that according
to God's commandment at the beginning the world might be filled with people, who would
universally praise him.
#BCV:Genesis 5:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 5:22>Genesis 5:22</verse></h3>



And Enoch (f) walked with God after he begat Methuselah three hundred years, and begat sons and
daughters:

<page=16>(f) That is, he led an upright and godly life.
#BCV:Genesis 5:24
<h3><verse=Genesis 5:24>Genesis 5:24</verse></h3>



And Enoch walked with God: and he [was] not; for (g) God took him.



(g) To show that there was a better life prepared and to be a testimony of the immortality of souls
and bodies. To inquire where he went is mere curiosity.
#BCV:Genesis 5:29
<h3><verse=Genesis 5:29>Genesis 5:29</verse></h3>



And he called his name Noah, saying, This [same] shall (h) comfort us concerning our work and toil
of our hands, because of the ground which the LORD hath cursed.



(h) Lamech had respect for the promise, (<bcv=Gen 3:15>Gen 3:15</bcv>), and desired to see the deliverer who would be
sent and yet saw but a figure of it. He spoke this by the spirit of prophecy because Noah delivered
the Church and preserved it by his obedience.

<h2>Genesis 6</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 6:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 6:2>Genesis 6:2</verse></h3>

<page=17>That the (a) sons of God saw the daughters (b) of men that they [were] (c) fair; and they took them
wives of all which they chose.

(a) The children of the godly who began to degenerate.



(b) Those that had wicked parents, as if from Cain.



(c) Having more respect for their beauty and worldly considerations than for their manners and
godliness.

#BCV:Genesis 6:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 6:3>Genesis 6:3</verse></h3>



And the LORD said, My spirit shall not always (d) strive with man, for that he also [is] flesh: yet his
days shall be an (e) hundred and twenty years.



(d) Because man could not by won by God's leniency and patience by which he tried to win him, he
would no longer withhold his vengeance.



(e) Which time span God gave man to repent before he would destroy the earth, (<bcv=1Pe 3:20>Pe1 3:20</bcv>).

#BCV:Genesis 6:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 6:4>Genesis 6:4</verse></h3>



There were giants in the earth in those days; and also after that, when the sons of God came in unto
the daughters of men, and they bare [children] to them, the same [became] mighty men which [were]
of old, men of (f) renown.



(f) Who usurped authority over others, and degenerated from that simplicity, in which their father's
lived.

#BCV:Genesis 6:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 6:6>Genesis 6:6</verse></h3>



And it (g) repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.



(g) God never repents, but he speaks in human terms, because he destroyed him, and in a way
denied him as his creature.

#BCV:Genesis 6:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 6:7>Genesis 6:7</verse></h3>

<page=18>And the LORD said, I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth; both man,
and (h) beast, and the creeping thing, and the fowls of the air; for it repenteth me that I have made
them.



(h) God declares how much he detests sin, seeing the punishment of it extends to the brute beasts.
#BCV:Genesis 6:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 6:8>Genesis 6:8</verse></h3>



But Noah (i) found grace in the eyes of the LORD.



(i) God was merciful to him.
#BCV:Genesis 6:11
<h3><verse=Genesis 6:11>Genesis 6:11</verse></h3>



The earth also was corrupt before God, and the earth was filled with (k) violence.



(k) Meaning, that all were given to the contempt of God, and oppression of their neighbours.
#BCV:Genesis 6:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 6:16>Genesis 6:16</verse></h3>



A window shalt thou make to the ark, and in a cubit shalt thou finish it above; and the door of the
ark shalt thou set in the side thereof; [with] (1) lower, second, and third [stories] shalt thou make it.



(1) That is, of three heights.
#BCV:Genesis 6:18
<h3><verse=Genesis 6:18>Genesis 6:18</verse></h3>



But with thee will I (m) establish my covenant; and thou shalt come into the ark, thou, and thy sons,
and thy wife, and thy sons' wives with thee.



(m) So that in this great undertaking and mocking of the whole world, you may be confirmed so
your faith does not fail.
#BCV:Genesis 6:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 6:22>Genesis 6:22</verse></h3>



Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, (n) so did he.



(n) That is, he obeyed God's commandment in all points without adding or taking away.

<h2>Genesis 7</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 7:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 7:1>Genesis 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=19>And the LORD said unto Noah, Come thou and all thy house into the ark; for thee have I seen (a)
righteous before me in this generation.


(a) In respect to the rest of the world, and because he had a desire to serve God and live uprightly.
#BCV:Genesis 7:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 7:2>Genesis 7:2</verse></h3>



Of every (b) clean beast thou shalt take to thee by sevens, the male and his female: and of beasts
that [are] not clean by two, the male and his female.



(b) Which might be offered in sacrifice, of which six were for breeding and the seventh for sacrifice.
#BCV:Genesis 7:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 7:9>Genesis 7:9</verse></h3>



There (c) went in two and two unto Noah into the ark, the male and the female, as God had
commanded Noah.



(c) God compelled them to present themselves to Noah, as they did before to Adam, when he gave
them names, (<bcv=Gen 2:19>Gen 2:19</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 7:11
<h3><verse=Genesis 7:11>Genesis 7:11</verse></h3>



In the six hundredth year of Noah's life, in the second month, the seventeenth day of the month,
the same day were all the (e) fountains of the great deep broken up, and the windows of heaven
were opened.



(e) Both the waters in the earth overflowed and also the clouds poured down.
#BCV:Genesis 7:15
<h3><verse=Genesis 7:15>Genesis 7:15</verse></h3>



And they went in unto Noah into the ark, two and two (f) of all flesh, wherein [is] the breath of life.



(f) Every living thing that God would have be preserved on earth, came into the ark to Noah.
#BCV:Genesis 7:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 7:16>Genesis 7:16</verse></h3>



And they that went in, went in male and female of all flesh, as God had commanded him: and the
LORD (g) shut him in.



(g) So that God's secret power defended him against the rage of the mighty waters.
#BCV:Genesis 7:23
<h3><verse=Genesis 7:23>Genesis 7:23</verse></h3>

<page=20>And every living substance was destroyed (h) which was upon the face of the ground, both man,
and cattle, and the creeping things, and the fowl of the heaven; and they were destroyed from the
earth: and Noah only (i) remained [alive], and they that [were] with him in the ark.



(h) That is, by God.



(i) Learn what it is to obey God only, and to forsake the multitude, (<bcv=1Pe 3:20>Pe1 3:20</bcv>).

<h2>Genesis 8</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 8:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 8:1>Genesis 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=21>And God (a) remembered Noah, and (b) every living thing, and all the cattle that [was] with him in
the ark: and God made a wind to pass over the earth, and the waters asswaged;


(a) Not that God forgets his at any time, but when he sends comfort then he shows that he
remembers them.



(b) If God remembered every brute beast, that ought also to assure his children.
#BCV:Genesis 8:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 8:4>Genesis 8:4</verse></h3>



And the ark rested in the (c) seventh month, on the seventeenth day of the month, upon the
mountains of Ararat.



(c) Part of September and part of October.
#BCV:Genesis 8:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 8:5>Genesis 8:5</verse></h3>

And the waters decreased continually until the (d) tenth month: in the tenth [month], on the first
[day] of the month, were the tops of the mountains seen.

(d) Which was the month of December.
#BCV:Genesis 8:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 8:9>Genesis 8:9</verse></h3>

But the dove found no rest for the sole of her foot, and she returned unto him into the ark, for the
waters [were] on the face of the whole earth: then he (e) put forth his hand, and took her, and pulled
her in unto him into the ark.

(e) The raven flew to and fro, resting on the ark, but did not come into it, unlike the dove that was
taken in.
#BCV:Genesis 8:11
<h3><verse=Genesis 8:11>Genesis 8:11</verse></h3>

And the dove came in to him in the evening; and, lo, in her mouth [was] an (f) olive leaf pluckt off:
so Noah knew that the waters were abated from off the earth.

(f) Which was a sign that the waters were much diminished: for the olives do not grow on the high
mountains.

#BCV:Genesis 8:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 8:13>Genesis 8:13</verse></h3>

And it came to pass in the (g) six hundreth and first year, in the first month, the first day of the
month, the waters were dried up from off the earth: and Noah removed the covering of the ark, and
looked, and, behold, the face of the ground was dry.

(g) Called in Hebrew <transhebrew>Abib,<english> part of March and part of April.

#BCV:Genesis 8:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 8:16>Genesis 8:16</verse></h3>

(h) Go forth of the ark, thou, and thy wife, and thy sons, and thy sons' wives with thee.

(h) Noah declares his obedience, in that he would not leave the ark without God's express
commandment, as he did not enter in without the same: the ark being a figure of the Church, in
which nothing must be done outside the word of God.

#BCV:Genesis 8:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 8:20>Genesis 8:20</verse></h3>

And Noah (i) builded an altar unto the LORD; and took of every clean beast, and of every clean
fowl, and offered burnt offerings on the altar.

(i) For sacrifices which were as an exercise of their faith, by which they used to give thanks to God
for his benefits.

#BCV:Genesis 8:21
<h3><verse=Genesis 8:21>Genesis 8:21</verse></h3>

And the LORD smelled a (k) sweet savour; and the LORD said in his heart, I will not again curse
the ground any more for man's sake; for the imagination of man's heart [is] evil from his youth;
neither will I again smite any more every thing living, as I have done.

(k) That is, by it he showed himself appeased and his anger at rest.

#BCV:Genesis 8:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 8:22>Genesis 8:22</verse></h3>

While the earth remaineth, (l) seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and
day and night shall not cease.



(l) The order of nature destroyed by the flood, is restored by God's promise.

<h2>Genesis 9</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 9:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 9:1>Genesis 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=23>And God (a) blessed Noah and his sons, and said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish
the earth.


(a) God increased them with fruit, and declared to them his counsel as concerning the replenishing
of the earth.
#BCV:Genesis 9:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 9:2>Genesis 9:2</verse></h3>



And the (b) fear of you and the dread of you shall be upon every beast of the earth, and upon every
fowl of the air, upon all that moveth [upon] the earth, and upon all the fishes of the sea; into your
hand are they delivered.



(b) By the virtue of this commandment, beasts do not rage as much against man as they would, yea
and many serve his purposes by it.
#BCV:Genesis 9:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 9:3>Genesis 9:3</verse></h3>



Every (c) moving thing that liveth shall be meat for you; even as the green herb have I given you all
things.



(c) By this permission man may with a good conscience use the creatures of God for his needs.
#BCV:Genesis 9:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 9:4>Genesis 9:4</verse></h3>




(d) But flesh with the life thereof, [which is] the blood thereof, shall ye not eat.



(d) That is, living creatures, and the flesh of beasts that are strangled: and by this all cruelty is
forbidden.
#BCV:Genesis 9:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 9:5>Genesis 9:5</verse></h3>




(e) And surely your blood of your lives will I require; at the hand of every beast will I require it, and
at the hand of man; at the hand of every man's brother will I require the life of man.



(e) That is, I will take vengeance for your blood.
#BCV:Genesis 9:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 9:6>Genesis 9:6</verse></h3>

<page=24>Whoso sheddeth man's blood, (f) by man shall his blood be shed: for in the (g) image of God made
he man.


(f) Not only by the magistrate, but often God raises up one murderer to kill another.



(g) Therefore to kill man is to deface God's image, and so injury is not only done to man, but also to
God.
#BCV:Genesis 9:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 9:9>Genesis 9:9</verse></h3>



And I, behold, I establish my (h) covenant with you, and with your (i) seed after you;



(h) To assure you that the world will never again be destroyed by a flood.



(i) The children which are not yet born, are comprehended in God's covenant with their fathers.
#BCV:Genesis 9:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 9:13>Genesis 9:13</verse></h3>



I do set my (k) bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a token of a covenant between me and the earth.



(k) By this we see that signs or ordinances should not be separate from the word.
#BCV:Genesis 9:15
<h3><verse=Genesis 9:15>Genesis 9:15</verse></h3>



And I will remember my (l) covenant, which [is] between me and you and every living creature of all
flesh; and the waters shall no more become a flood to destroy all flesh.



(l) When men see my bow in the sky, they will know that I have not forgotten my covenant with
them.
#BCV:Genesis 9:17
<h3><verse=Genesis 9:17>Genesis 9:17</verse></h3>



And God said unto Noah, (m) This [is] the token of the covenant, which I have established between
me and all flesh that [is] upon the earth.



(m) God repeats this often to confirm Noah's faith even more.
#BCV:Genesis 9:19
<h3><verse=Genesis 9:19>Genesis 9:19</verse></h3>



These [are] the three sons of Noah: and of them was the whole earth (n) overspread.



(n) This declares what the virtue of God's blessing was, when he said, increase and bring forth in



(<bcv=Gen 1:28>Gen 1:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 9:21
<h3><verse=Genesis 9:21>Genesis 9:21</verse></h3>

<page=25>And he drank of the wine, and was (o) drunken; and he was uncovered within his tent.


(o) This is set before us to show what a horrible thing drunkenness is.
#BCV:Genesis 9:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 9:22>Genesis 9:22</verse></h3>



And Ham, the father of (p) Canaan, saw the nakedness of his father, and (q) told his two brethren
without.



(p) Of whom came the Canaanites that wicked nation, who were also cursed by God.



(q) In derision and contempt of his father.
#BCV:Genesis 9:25
<h3><verse=Genesis 9:25>Genesis 9:25</verse></h3>



And he said, (r) Cursed [be] Canaan; a (s) servant of servants shall he be unto his brethren.



(r) He pronounces as a prophet the curse of God against all those who do not honour their parents:
for Ham and his posterity were cursed.



(s) That is, a most vile slave.
#BCV:Genesis 9:27
<h3><verse=Genesis 9:27>Genesis 9:27</verse></h3>



God shall (t) enlarge Japheth, and he shall dwell in the tents of Shem; and Canaan shall be his
servant.



(t) He declares that the Gentiles, who came from Japheth, and were separated from the Church,
should be joined to the same by the persuasion of God's Spirit, and preaching of the gospel.

<h2>Genesis 10</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 10:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 10:1>Genesis 10:1</verse></h3>


<page=26>(a) Now these [are] the generations of the sons of Noah, Shem, Ham, and Japheth: and unto them
were sons born after the flood.


(a) These generations are here recited, partly to declare the marvellous increase, and also to set forth
their great forgetfulness of God's grace towards their fathers.
#BCV:Genesis 10:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 10:2>Genesis 10:2</verse></h3>



The sons of Japheth; Gomer, and Magog, and (b) Madai, and Javan, and Tubal, and Meshech, and
Tiras.



(b) Of Madai and Javan came the Medes and Greeks.
#BCV:Genesis 10:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 10:5>Genesis 10:5</verse></h3>



By these were the (c) isles of the Gentiles divided in their lands; every one after his tongue, after
their families, in their nations.



(c) So do the Jews call all countries which are separated from them by sea, as Greece, Italy etc, which
were given to the children of Japheth, of whom came the Gentiles.
#BCV:Genesis 10:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 10:6>Genesis 10:6</verse></h3>



And the sons of Ham; (d) Cush, and Mizraim, and Phut, and Canaan.



(d) Of Cush and Mizraim came the Ethiopians and Egyptians.
#BCV:Genesis 10:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 10:8>Genesis 10:8</verse></h3>



And Cush begat Nimrod: he began to be a (e) mighty one in the earth.



(e) Meaning, a cruel oppressor and tyrant.
#BCV:Genesis 10:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 10:9>Genesis 10:9</verse></h3>



He was a mighty hunter before the LORD: wherefore it is said, Even (f) as Nimrod the mighty
hunter before the LORD.



(f) His tyranny came into a proverb as hated both by God and man: for he did not cease to commit
cruelty even in God's presence.
#BCV:Genesis 10:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 10:10>Genesis 10:10</verse></h3>

<page=27>And the beginning of his kingdom was Babel, and Erech, and Accad, and Calneh, in the land of (g)
Shinar.


(g) For there was another city in Egypt, called Babel.
#BCV:Genesis 10:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 10:13>Genesis 10:13</verse></h3>



And Mizraim begat (h) Ludim, and Anamim, and Lehabim, and Naphtuhim,



(h) Of Lud came the Lydians.
#BCV:Genesis 10:21
<h3><verse=Genesis 10:21>Genesis 10:21</verse></h3>



Unto (i) Shem also, the father of all the children of (k) Eber, the brother of Japheth the elder, even
to him were [children] born.



(i) In his stock the Church was preserved: therefore Moses stops speaking of Japheth and Ham, and
speaks of Shem extensively.



(k) Of whom came the Hebrews or Jews.
#BCV:Genesis 10:25
<h3><verse=Genesis 10:25>Genesis 10:25</verse></h3>



And unto Eber were born two sons: the name of one [was] Peleg; for in his days was the earth (l)
divided; and his brother's name [was] Joktan.



(l) This division came by the diversity of language, as appears in (<bcv=Gen 11:9>Gen 11:9</bcv>).

<h2>Genesis 11</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 11:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 11:2>Genesis 11:2</verse></h3>

<page=28>And it came to pass, (a) as (b) they journeyed from the (c) east, that they found a plain in the land of
(d) Shinar; and they dwelt there.



(a) One hundred and thirty years after the flood.



(b) That is, Nimrod and his company.



(c) That is, from Armenia where the ark stayed.



(d) Which was afterward called Chaldea.
#BCV:Genesis 11:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 11:4>Genesis 11:4</verse></h3>



And they said, Go to, let us (e) build us a city and a tower, whose top [may reach] unto heaven; and
let us make us a name, lest we be scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth.



(e) They were moved with pride and ambition, preferring their own glory to God's honour.
#BCV:Genesis 11:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 11:5>Genesis 11:5</verse></h3>



And the LORD (f) came down to see the city and the tower, which the children of men builded.



(f) Meaning, that he declared by effect, that he knew their wicked enterprise; for God's power is
everywhere, and neither ascends nor descends.
#BCV:Genesis 11:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 11:6>Genesis 11:6</verse></h3>



And the LORD said, (g) Behold, the people [is] one, and they have all one language; and this they
begin to do: and now nothing will be restrained from them, which they have imagined to do.



(g) God speaks this in derision, because of their foolish persuasion and enterprise.
#BCV:Genesis 11:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 11:7>Genesis 11:7</verse></h3>



Go to, (h) let us go down, and (i) there confound their language, that they may not understand one
another's speech.



(h) He speaks as though he took counsel with his own wisdom and power: that is, with the Son and
holy Spirit: signifying the greatness and certainty of the punishment.

<page=29>(i) By this great plague of the confusion of tongues appears God's horrible judgment against man's
pride and vain glory.
#BCV:Genesis 11:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 11:10>Genesis 11:10</verse></h3>



These [are] the generations (k) of Shem: Shem [was] an hundred years old, and begat Arphaxad two
years after the flood:



(k) He returns to the genealogy of Shem, to come to the history of Abram, in which the Church of
God is described, which is Moses' principle purpose.
#BCV:Genesis 11:27
<h3><verse=Genesis 11:27>Genesis 11:27</verse></h3>



Now these [are] the generations of Terah: Terah begat (1) Abram, Nahor, and Haran; and Haran
begat Lot.



(1) He makes mention first of Abram, not because he was the first born, but for the history which
properly belongs to him. Also Abram at the confusion of tongues was 43 years old, for in the
destruction of Sodom he was 99 and it was destroyed 52 years after the confusion of tongues.
#BCV:Genesis 11:29
<h3><verse=Genesis 11:29>Genesis 11:29</verse></h3>



And Abram and Nahor took them wives: the name of Abram's wife [was] Sarai; and the name of
Nahor's wife, Milcah, the daughter of Haran, the father of Milcah, and the father of (m) Iscah.



(m) Some think that this Iscah was Sarai.
#BCV:Genesis 11:31
<h3><verse=Genesis 11:31>Genesis 11:31</verse></h3>



And (n) Terah took Abram his son, and Lot the son of Haran his son's son, and Sarai his daughter
in law, his son Abram's wife; and they went forth with them from Ur of the Chaldees, to go into the
land of Canaan; and they came unto (o) Haran, and dwelt there.



(n) Though the oracle of God came to Abram, yet the honour is given to Terah, because he was the
father.



(o) Which was a city of Mesopotamia.

<h2>Genesis 12</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 12:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 12:1>Genesis 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=30>Now the LORD had said unto Abram, (a) Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and
from thy father's house, unto (b) a land that I will shew thee:


(a) From the flood to this time were four hundred and twenty-three years.



(b) In appointing him no certain place, he proves so much more his faith and obedience.
#BCV:Genesis 12:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 12:2>Genesis 12:2</verse></h3>



And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou
shalt be (c) a blessing:



(c) The world shall recover by your seed, which is Christ, the blessing which they lost in Adam.
#BCV:Genesis 12:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 12:5>Genesis 12:5</verse></h3>

And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother's son, and all their substance that they had
gathered, and the (d) souls that they had gotten in Haran; and they went forth to go into the land of
Canaan; and into the land of Canaan they came.

(d) Meaning servants as well as cattle.
#BCV:Genesis 12:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 12:6>Genesis 12:6</verse></h3>

And Abram (e) passed through the land unto the place of Sichem, unto the plain of Moreh. And the

(f) Canaanite [was] then in the land.

(e) He wandered to and fro in the land before he could find a settling place: thus God exercises the
faith of his children.

(f) Which was a cruel and rebellious nation, by whom God kept his in continual exercise.
#BCV:Genesis 12:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 12:7>Genesis 12:7</verse></h3>

And the LORD appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there
builded he (g) an altar unto the LORD, who appeared unto him.

(g) It was not enough for him to worship God in his heart, but it was expedient to declare by
outward profession his faith before men, of which this altar was a sign.

#BCV:gen 12:8
<h3><verse=gen 12:8>gen 12:8</verse></h3>

[having] Bethel on the west, and Hai on the east: and there he builded an (i) altar unto the LORD,
and called upon the name of the LORD.

(h) Because of the troubles that he had among that wicked people.

(i) And so served the true God, and renounced all idolatry.
#BCV:Genesis 12:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 12:9>Genesis 12:9</verse></h3>

(k) And Abram journeyed, going on still toward the south.

(k) Thus the children of God may look for no rest in this world, but must wait for the heavenly rest
and quietness.
#BCV:Genesis 12:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 12:10>Genesis 12:10</verse></h3>

And there was a (l) famine in the land: and Abram went down into Egypt to sojourn there; for the
famine [was] grievous in the land.

(l) This was a new trial of Abram's faith: by which we see that the end of one affliction is the
beginning of another.
#BCV:Genesis 12:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 12:13>Genesis 12:13</verse></h3>

Say, I pray thee, thou [art] my (m) sister: that it may be well with me for thy sake; and my soul shall
live because of thee.

(m) By this we learn not to use unlawful means nor to put others in danger to save ourselves, (Gen
12:20). Though it may appear that Abram did not fear death, so much as dying without children, he
acts as though God's promise had not taken place; in which appeared a weak faith.
#BCV:Genesis 12:15
<h3><verse=Genesis 12:15>Genesis 12:15</verse></h3>

The princes also of Pharaoh saw her, and commended her before Pharaoh: and the woman was (n)
taken into Pharaoh's house.

(n) To be his wife.
#BCV:Genesis 12:17
<h3><verse=Genesis 12:17>Genesis 12:17</verse></h3>



And the LORD (o) plagued Pharaoh and his house with great plagues because of Sarai Abram's wife.

<page=32>(o) The Lord took the defence of this poor stranger against a mighty king: and as he is ever careful
over his, so did he preserve Sarai.
#BCV:Genesis 12:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 12:20>Genesis 12:20</verse></h3>



And Pharaoh (p) commanded [his] men concerning him: and they sent him away, and his wife, and
all that he had.



(p) To the intent that none should hurt him either in his person or goods.

<h2>Genesis 13</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 13:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 13:1>Genesis 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=33>And (a) Abram went up out of Egypt, he, and his wife, and all that he had, and Lot with him, into
the south.


(a) His great riches gotten in Egypt, did not hinder him in following his vocation.
#BCV:Genesis 13:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 13:3>Genesis 13:3</verse></h3>



And he went on his journeys from the south even to (b) Bethel, unto the place where his tent had
been at the beginning, between Bethel and Hai;



(b) He calls the place by the name which was later given to it, (<bcv=Gen 23:19>Gen 23:19</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 13:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 13:6>Genesis 13:6</verse></h3>



And the land was not able to (c) bear them, that they might dwell together: for their substance was
great, so that they could not dwell together.



(c) This inconvenience came by their riches, which break friendships and the bounds of nature.
#BCV:Genesis 13:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 13:7>Genesis 13:7</verse></h3>



And there was a strife between the herdmen of Abram's cattle and the herdmen of Lot's cattle: and
the (d) Canaanite and the Perizzite dwelled then in the land.



(d) Who seeing their contention, might blaspheme God and destroy them.
#BCV:Genesis 13:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 13:8>Genesis 13:8</verse></h3>



And Abram said unto Lot, Let there be no (e) strife, I pray thee, between me and thee, and between
my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we [be] brethren.



(e) He cuts off the opportunity for contention: therefore the evil ceases.
#BCV:Genesis 13:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 13:9>Genesis 13:9</verse></h3>



[Is] not the whole land before thee? separate thyself, I pray thee, from me: if [thou wilt (f) take] the
left hand, then I will go to the right; or if [thou depart] to the right hand, then I will go to the left.



(f) Abram resigns his own right to buy peace.
#BCV:Genesis 13:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 13:10>Genesis 13:10</verse></h3>

<page=34>And Lot lifted up his eyes, and beheld all the plain of Jordan, that it [was] well watered every where,
before the LORD destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah, [even] as the (g) garden of the LORD, like the
land of Egypt, as thou comest unto Zoar.


(g) Which was in Eden, (<bcv=Gen 2:10>Gen 2:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 13:11
<h3><verse=Genesis 13:11>Genesis 13:11</verse></h3>



Then Lot chose him all the plain of Jordan; and Lot journeyed east: and they separated themselves
the (h) one from the other.



(h) This was done by God's providence, that only Abram and his seed might dwell in the land of
Canaan.
#BCV:Genesis 13:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 13:13>Genesis 13:13</verse></h3>



But the men of Sodom [were] wicked and (i) sinners before the LORD exceedingly.



(i) Lot thinking to get paradise, found hell.
#BCV:Genesis 13:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 13:14>Genesis 13:14</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto (k) Abram, after that Lot was separated from him, Lift up now thine eyes,
and look from the place where thou art northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward:



(k) The Lord comforted him, lest he should have taken thought for the departure of his nephew.
#BCV:Genesis 13:15
<h3><verse=Genesis 13:15>Genesis 13:15</verse></h3>



For all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for (l) ever.



(l) Meaning a long time, and till the coming of Christ as in (<bcv=Exo 12:14>Exo 12:14</bcv>,<bcv=Exo 21:6> Exo 21:6</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 15:17> Deu 15:17</bcv>) and
spiritually this refers to the true children of Abram born according to the promise, and not
according to the flesh, which are heirs of the true land of Canaan.

<h2>Genesis 14</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 14:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 14:1>Genesis 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=35>And it came to pass in the days of Amraphel king of (a) Shinar, Arioch king of Ellasar,
Chedorlaomer king of Elam, and Tidal king of (b) nations;


(a) That is, of Babylon: by kings here, meaning, them that were governors of cities.



(b) Of a people gathered from various countries.
#BCV:Genesis 14:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 14:3>Genesis 14:3</verse></h3>



All these were (c) joined together in the vale of Siddim, which is the (d) salt sea.



(c) Ambition is the chief cause of wars among princes.



(d) Called also the dead sea, or the lake Asphaltite, near Sodom and Gomorrah.
#BCV:Genesis 14:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 14:10>Genesis 14:10</verse></h3>



And the (e) vale of Siddim [was full of] slimepits; and the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah fled, and
fell there; and they that remained fled to the mountain.



(e) And afterward was overwhelmed with water, and so was called the salt sea.
#BCV:Genesis 14:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 14:12>Genesis 14:12</verse></h3>



And they (f) took Lot, Abram's brother's son, who dwelt in Sodom, and his goods, and departed.



(f) The godly are plagued many times with the wicked: therefore their company is dangerous.
#BCV:Genesis 14:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 14:13>Genesis 14:13</verse></h3>



And there came one that had escaped, and told Abram the Hebrew; for he dwelt in the plain of
Mamre the Amorite, brother of Eshcol, and brother of Aner: and these [were] (g) confederate with
Abram.



(g) God removed them to join Abram, and preserves him from their idolatry and superstitions.
#BCV:Genesis 14:18
<h3><verse=Genesis 14:18>Genesis 14:18</verse></h3>



And Melchizedek king of Salem (h) brought forth bread and wine: and he [was] the priest of the
most high God.

<page=36>(h) For Abram and his soldiers refreshment, not to offer sacrifice.
#BCV:Genesis 14:19
<h3><verse=Genesis 14:19>Genesis 14:19</verse></h3>



And he (i) blessed him, and said, Blessed [be] Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven
and earth:



(i) Melchizedek fed Abram, declared himself to represent a king, and he blessed him as the high
priest.
#BCV:Genesis 14:24
<h3><verse=Genesis 14:24>Genesis 14:24</verse></h3>




(k) Save only that which the young men have eaten, and the portion of the men which went with me,
Aner, Eshcol, and Mamre; let them take their portion.



(k) He did not want his liberality to be hurtful to others.

<h2>Genesis 15</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 15:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 15:2>Genesis 15:2</verse></h3>

<page=37>And Abram said, (a) Lord GOD, what wilt thou give me, seeing I go childless, and the steward of
my house [is] this Eliezer of Damascus?


(a) His fear was not only lest he should not have children, but lest the promise of the blessed seed
should not be accomplished in him.
#BCV:Genesis 15:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 15:8>Genesis 15:8</verse></h3>



And he said, Lord GOD, (b) whereby shall I know that I shall inherit it?



(b) This is a particular motion of God's Spirit, which is not lawful for all to follow, in asking signs:
but was permitted for some by a peculiar motion, as to Gideon and Ezekiel.
#BCV:Genesis 15:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 15:10>Genesis 15:10</verse></h3>



And he took unto him all these, and (c) divided them in the midst, and laid each piece one against
another: but the birds divided he not.



(c) This was the old custom in making covenants, (<bcv=Jer 39:18>Jer 39:18</bcv>), to which God added these conditions,
that Abram's posterity would be as torn in pieces, but after they would be rejoined: also that it would
be assaulted, but yet delivered.
#BCV:Genesis 15:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 15:13>Genesis 15:13</verse></h3>



And he said unto Abram, Know of a surety that thy seed shall be a stranger in a land [that is] not
theirs, and shall serve them; and they shall afflict them (d) four hundred years;



(d) Counting from the birth of Isaac to their departure of Egypt: Which declares that God will
allow his to be afflicted in this world.
#BCV:Genesis 15:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 15:16>Genesis 15:16</verse></h3>



But in the fourth generation they shall come hither again: for the (e) iniquity of the Amorites [is] not
yet full.



(e) Though God tolerates the wicked for a time, yet his vengeance falls on them when the measure
of their wickedness is full.

<h2>Genesis 16</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 16:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 16:1>Genesis 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=38>Now (a) Sarai Abram's wife bare him no children: and she had an handmaid, an Egyptian, whose
name [was] Hagar.



(a) It seems that she had respect for God's promise, which could not be accomplished without issue.
#BCV:Genesis 16:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 16:2>Genesis 16:2</verse></h3>



And Sarai said unto Abram, Behold now, the LORD hath (b) restrained me from bearing: I pray thee,
go in unto my maid; it may be that I may obtain children by her. And Abram hearkened to the voice
of Sarai.



(b) She fails by limiting God's power to the common order of nature, as though God could not give
her children in her old age.
#BCV:Genesis 16:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 16:4>Genesis 16:4</verse></h3>



And he went in unto Hagar, and she conceived: and when she saw that she had conceived, her
mistress was (c) despised in her eyes.



(c) This punishment declares what they gain if they attempt any thing against the word of God.
#BCV:Genesis 16:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 16:7>Genesis 16:7</verse></h3>



And the (d) angel of the LORD found her by a fountain of water in the wilderness, by the fountain
in the way to Shur.



(d) Which was Christ, as appears in (<bcv=Gen 16:13>Gen 16:13</bcv>,<bcv=Gen 18:17> Gen 18:17</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 16:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 16:9>Genesis 16:9</verse></h3>



And the angel of the LORD said unto her, (e) Return to thy mistress, and submit thyself under her
hands.



(e) God rejects no estate of people in their misery, but sends them comfort.
#BCV:Genesis 16:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 16:12>Genesis 16:12</verse></h3>



And he will be a wild man; his hand [will be] against every man, and every man's hand against him;
and (f) he shall dwell in the presence of all his brethren.

<page=39>(f) That is, the Ishmaelites will be a separate people by themselves and not part of another people.
#BCV:Genesis 16:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 16:13>Genesis 16:13</verse></h3>



And she called the name of the LORD that spake unto her, Thou God seest me: for she said, (g)
Have I also here looked after him that seeth me?



(g) She rebukes her own dullness and acknowledges God's graces, who was present with her
everywhere.

<h2>Genesis 17</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 17:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 17:4>Genesis 17:4</verse></h3>

<page=40>As for me, behold, my covenant [is] with thee, and thou shalt be a (a) father of many nations.

(a) Not only physical descendants, but of a far greater multitude by faith, (<bcv=Rom 4:17>Rom 4:17</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 17:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 17:5>Genesis 17:5</verse></h3>



Neither shall thy name any more be called Abram, but thy name shall be (b) Abraham; for a father
of many nations have I made thee.



(b) The changing of his name is a seal to confirm God's promise to him.
#BCV:Genesis 17:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 17:10>Genesis 17:10</verse></h3>




(c) This [is] my covenant, which ye shall keep, between me and you and thy seed after thee; Every
man child among you shall be circumcised.



(c) Circumcision is called the covenant, because it signifies the covenant and has the promise of
grace joined to it: a phrase that is common to all ordinances.
#BCV:Genesis 17:11
<h3><verse=Genesis 17:11>Genesis 17:11</verse></h3>



And ye shall circumcise the flesh of your (d) foreskin; and it shall be a token of the covenant
betwixt me and you.



(d) That private part is circumcised, to show that all that is begotten by man is corrupt, and must die.
#BCV:Genesis 17:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 17:14>Genesis 17:14</verse></h3>



And the uncircumcised (e) man child whose flesh of his foreskin is not circumcised, that soul shall
be cut off from his people; he hath broken my covenant.



(e) Though women were not circumcised, they still partook of God's promise: for under mankind all
was consecrated. Here it is declared, that whoever condemns the sign, also despises the promise.
#BCV:Genesis 17:17
<h3><verse=Genesis 17:17>Genesis 17:17</verse></h3>



Then Abraham fell upon his face, and (f) laughed, and said in his heart, Shall [a child] be born unto
him that is an hundred years old? and shall Sarah, that is ninety years old, bear?



(f) Which proceeded from a sudden joy, and not from lack of faith.
#BCV:Genesis 17:19
<h3><verse=Genesis 17:19>Genesis 17:19</verse></h3>

<page=41>And God said, Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac: and I
will establish my covenant with him for an (g) everlasting covenant, [and] with his seed after him.



(g) The everlasting covenant is made with the children of the Spirit. A temporary promise is made
with the children of the flesh, as was promised to Ishmael.
#BCV:Genesis 17:23
<h3><verse=Genesis 17:23>Genesis 17:23</verse></h3>



And Abraham took Ishmael his son, and all that were born in his house, and all that were bought
with his money, every male among the men of Abraham's house; and (h) circumcised the flesh of
their foreskin in the selfsame day, as God had said unto him.



(h) They were well taught if they obeyed and were circumcised without resistance. This teaches that
masters in their houses ought to be as preachers to their families, that from the highest to the lowest
they may obey the will of God.

<h2>Genesis 18</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 18:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 18:2>Genesis 18:2</verse></h3>

<page=42>And he lift up his eyes and looked, and, lo, three (a) men stood by him: and when he saw [them], he
ran to meet them from the tent door, and bowed himself toward the ground,



(a) That is, three angels in the shape of men.
#BCV:Genesis 18:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 18:3>Genesis 18:3</verse></h3>



And said, My (b) Lord, if now I have found favour in thy sight, pass not away, I pray thee, from thy
servant:



(b) Speaking to the one who appeared to be most majestic, for he thought they were men.
#BCV:Genesis 18:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 18:4>Genesis 18:4</verse></h3>



Let a little water, I pray you, be fetched, and (c) wash your feet, and rest yourselves under the tree:



(c) For men used to go bare footed in those parts because of the heat.
#BCV:Genesis 18:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 18:5>Genesis 18:5</verse></h3>



And I will fetch a morsel of bread, and comfort ye your hearts; after that ye shall pass on: for
therefore are ye (d) come to your servant. And they said, So do, as thou hast said.



(d) As sent by God that I should do my duty to you.
#BCV:Genesis 18:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 18:8>Genesis 18:8</verse></h3>



And he took butter, and milk, and the calf which he had dressed, and set [it] before them; and he
stood by them under the tree, and (e) they did eat.



(e) For as God gave them bodies for a time, so he gave them the abilities of them, to walk, to eat
and drink, and such like.
#BCV:Genesis 18:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 18:10>Genesis 18:10</verse></h3>



And he said, I will certainly return unto thee according to the time of (f) life; and, lo, Sarah thy wife
shall have a son. And Sarah heard [it] in the tent door, which [was] behind him.



(f) That is, about this time when she shall be alive, or when the child shall come into this life.
#BCV:Genesis 18:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 18:12>Genesis 18:12</verse></h3>

<page=43>Therefore Sarah (g) laughed within herself, saying, After I am waxed old shall I have pleasure, my
lord being old also?


(g) For she believed the order of nature, rather than believing the promise of God.
#BCV:Genesis 18:17
<h3><verse=Genesis 18:17>Genesis 18:17</verse></h3>



And the (h) LORD said, Shall I hide from Abraham that thing which I do;



(h) Jehovah the Hebrew word we call Lord, shows that this angel was Christ: for this word is only
applied to God.

#BCV:Genesis 18:19
<h3><verse=Genesis 18:19>Genesis 18:19</verse></h3>



For I know him, (i) that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall
keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham
that which he hath spoken of him.



(i) He shows that fathers ought both to know God's judgments, and to declare them to their children.
#BCV:Genesis 18:21
<h3><verse=Genesis 18:21>Genesis 18:21</verse></h3>



I will (k) go down now, and see whether they have done altogether according to the (l) cry of it,
which is come unto me; and if not, I will know.



(k) God speaks after the fashion of men: that is, I will enter into judgment with good advise.



(l) For our sins cry for vengeance, though no one accuses us.
#BCV:Genesis 18:26
<h3><verse=Genesis 18:26>Genesis 18:26</verse></h3>



And the LORD said, If I find in Sodom (m) fifty righteous within the city, then I will spare all the
place for their sakes.



(m) God declares that his judgments were done with great mercy, even though all were so corrupt
that not only fifty but ten righteous men could not be found there, and also that the wicked are
spared for the sake of the righteous.
#BCV:Genesis 18:27
<h3><verse=Genesis 18:27>Genesis 18:27</verse></h3>

<page=44>And Abraham answered and said, Behold now, I have taken upon me to speak unto the Lord, which
[am (n) but] dust and ashes:



(n) By this we learn, that the nearer we approach to God, the more our miserable estate appears, and
the more we are humbled.
#BCV:Genesis 18:32
<h3><verse=Genesis 18:32>Genesis 18:32</verse></h3>



And he said, Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak yet but this (o) once: Peradventure ten
shall be found there. And he said, I will not destroy [it] for ten's sake.



(o) If God did not refuse the prayer for the wicked Sodomites, even to the sixth request, how much
more will he grant the prayers of the godly for the afflicted Church?

<h2>Genesis 19</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 19:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:1>Genesis 19:1</verse></h3>

<page=45>And there came two (a) angels to Sodom at even; and Lot sat in the gate of Sodom: and Lot seeing
[them] rose up to meet them; and he bowed himself with his face toward the ground;



(a) In which we see God's provident care in preserving his: even though he does not reveal himself
to all alike: for Lot had but two angels, and Abraham three.
#BCV:Genesis 19:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:3>Genesis 19:3</verse></h3>



And (b) he pressed upon them greatly; and they turned in unto him, and entered into his house; and
he made them a feast, and did bake unleavened bread, and they (c) did eat.



(b) That is, he begged them so insistently.



(c) Not because they had need, but because the time was not yet come for them to reveal themselves.
#BCV:Genesis 19:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:4>Genesis 19:4</verse></h3>



But before they lay down, the men of the city, [even] the men of Sodom, compassed the house
round, both old and young, (d) all the people from every quarter:



(d) Nothing is more dangerous than to live where sin reigns: for it corrupts all.
#BCV:Genesis 19:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:8>Genesis 19:8</verse></h3>



Behold now, I have two (e) daughters which have not known man; let me, I pray you, bring them out
unto you, and do ye to them as [is] good in your eyes: only unto these men do nothing; (f) for
therefore came they under the shadow of my roof.



(e) He deserves praise for defending his guests, but he is to be blamed for seeking unlawful means.



(f) That I should preserve them from all injury.
#BCV:Genesis 19:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:13>Genesis 19:13</verse></h3>



For (g) we will destroy this place, because the cry of them is waxen great before the face of the
LORD; and the LORD hath sent us to destroy it.



(g) This proves that the angels are ministers, both to execute God's wrath and to declare his favour.
#BCV:Genesis 19:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:16>Genesis 19:16</verse></h3>

<page=46>And while he (h) lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and
upon the hand of his two daughters; the LORD being merciful unto him: and they brought him
forth, and set him without the city.



(h) The mercy of God strives to overcome man's slowness in following God's calling.
#BCV:Genesis 19:17
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:17>Genesis 19:17</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when they had brought them forth abroad, that he said, Escape for thy life; (i)
look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be
consumed.



(i) He willed him to flee God's judgments and not to be sorry to leave that rich country, full of vain
pleasures.
#BCV:Genesis 19:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:20>Genesis 19:20</verse></h3>



Behold now, this city [is] near to flee unto, and it [is] a little one: Oh, let me escape thither, ([is] it not
a (k) little one?) and my soul shall live.



(k) Though it is little, yet it is great enough to save my life: in which he errs by choosing another
place than the angel had appointed him.
#BCV:Genesis 19:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:22>Genesis 19:22</verse></h3>



Haste thee, escape thither; for I (l) cannot do any thing till thou be come thither. Therefore the
name of the city was called (m) Zoar.



(l) Because God's commandment was to destroy the city and to save Lot.



(m) Which before was called Belah, in (<bcv=Gen 14:2>Gen 14:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 19:26
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:26>Genesis 19:26</verse></h3>



But his wife looked back from behind him, and she became a (n) pillar of salt.



(n) Concerning the body only: this was a notable monument of God's vengeance to all who passed
that way.
#BCV:Genesis 19:30
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:30>Genesis 19:30</verse></h3>



And Lot went up out of Zoar, and dwelt in the mountain, and his two daughters with him; for he (o)
feared to dwell in Zoar: and he dwelt in a cave, he and his two daughters.



(o) Having felt God's mercy, he did not dare provoke him again by continuing among the wicked.
#BCV:Genesis 19:31
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:31>Genesis 19:31</verse></h3>

<page=47>And the firstborn said unto the younger, Our father [is] old, and [there is] not a man in the (p) earth
to come in unto us after the manner of all the earth:



(p) Meaning in the country which the Lord had now destroyed.
#BCV:Genesis 19:32
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:32>Genesis 19:32</verse></h3>



Come, let us make our father (q) drink wine, and we will lie with him, that we may preserve seed of
our father.



(q) For unless he had been drunk, he would never have done that abominable act.
#BCV:Genesis 19:36
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:36>Genesis 19:36</verse></h3>



Thus were (r) both the daughters of Lot with child by their father.



(r) Thus God permitted him to fall most horribly in the solitary mountains, whom the wickedness
of Sodom could not overcome.
#BCV:Genesis 19:37
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:37>Genesis 19:37</verse></h3>



And the firstborn bare a son, and called his name Moab: the same [is] the father of the (s) Moabites
unto this day.



(s) Who as they were born in most horrible incest, so were they and their posterity vile and wicked.
#BCV:Genesis 19:38
<h3><verse=Genesis 19:38>Genesis 19:38</verse></h3>



And the younger, she also bare a son, and called his name (t) Benammi: the same [is] the father of
the children of Ammon unto this day.



(t) That is, son of my people: signifying that they rejoiced in their sin, rather than repenting of it.

<h2>Genesis 20</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 20:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 20:1>Genesis 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=48>And Abraham journeyed from thence toward the south country, and dwelled between Kadesh and (a)
Shur, and sojourned in Gerar.



(a) Which was toward Egypt.
#BCV:Genesis 20:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 20:2>Genesis 20:2</verse></h3>



And Abraham said of Sarah his wife, (b) She [is] my sister: and Abimelech king of Gerar sent, and
took Sarah.



(b) Abraham had now twice fallen into this sin: such is man's frailty.
#BCV:Genesis 20:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 20:3>Genesis 20:3</verse></h3>



But God came to Abimelech in a dream by night, and said to him, Behold, (c) thou [art but] a dead
man, for the woman which thou hast taken; for she [is] a man's wife.



(c) So greatly God detests the breach of marriage.
#BCV:Genesis 20:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 20:4>Genesis 20:4</verse></h3>



But Abimelech had not come near her: and he said, Lord, wilt thou slay also (d) a righteous nation?



(d) The infidels confessed that God would not punish but for just occasion: therefore, when he
punishes, the occasion is just.
#BCV:Genesis 20:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 20:5>Genesis 20:5</verse></h3>



Said he not unto me, She [is] my sister? and she, even she herself said, He [is] my brother: in the
integrity of my (e) heart and (f) innocency of my hands have I done this.



(e) As one falling by ignorance, and not doing evil on purpose.



(f) Not thinking to do any man harm.
#BCV:Genesis 20:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 20:6>Genesis 20:6</verse></h3>



And God said unto him in a dream, Yea, I know that thou didst this in the integrity of thy heart; for
I also (g) withheld thee from sinning against me: therefore suffered I thee not to touch her.

<page=49>(g) God by his holy Spirit restrains those who offend in ignorance, that they not fall into greater
offence..
#BCV:Genesis 20:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 20:7>Genesis 20:7</verse></h3>



Now therefore restore the man [his] wife; for he [is] a (h) prophet, and he (i) shall pray for thee, and
thou shalt live: and if thou restore [her] not, know thou that thou shalt surely die, thou, and all that
[are] thine.



(h) That is, one to whom God reveals himself familiarly.



(i) For the prayer of the godly is of force towards God.
#BCV:Genesis 20:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 20:9>Genesis 20:9</verse></h3>



Then Abimelech called Abraham, and said unto him, What hast thou done unto us? and what have I
offended thee, that thou hast brought on me and on my (k) kingdom a great sin? thou hast done
deeds unto me that ought not to be done.



(k) The wickedness of the king brings God's wrath on the whole realm.
#BCV:Genesis 20:11
<h3><verse=Genesis 20:11>Genesis 20:11</verse></h3>



And Abraham said, Because I thought, Surely the (l) fear of God [is] not in this place; and they will
slay me for my wife's sake.



(l) He shows that no honesty can be hoped for, where there is no fear of God.
#BCV:Genesis 20:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 20:12>Genesis 20:12</verse></h3>



And yet indeed [she is] my (m) sister; she [is] the daughter of my father, but not the daughter of my
mother; and she became my wife.



(m) By sister, he means his full cousin, and by daughter Abraham's niece, (<bcv=Gen 11:29>Gen 11:29</bcv>) for so the
Hebrews use these words.
#BCV:Genesis 20:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 20:16>Genesis 20:16</verse></h3>



And unto Sarah he said, Behold, I have given thy brother a thousand [pieces] of silver: behold, he [is]
to thee a (n) covering of the eyes, unto all that [are] with thee, and with all [other]: (o) thus she was
reproved.



(n) Such a head as with whom you may be preserved from all dangers.

<page=50>(o) God caused this heathen king to reprove her because she concealed her identity, seeing that God
had given her a husband as her veil and defence.
#BCV:Genesis 20:18
<h3><verse=Genesis 20:18>Genesis 20:18</verse></h3>



For the LORD (p) had fast closed up all the wombs of the house of Abimelech, because of Sarah
Abraham's wife.



(p) Had taken away from them the gift of conceiving.

<h2>Genesis 21</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 21:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 21:2>Genesis 21:2</verse></h3>

<page=51>For Sarah conceived, and bare Abraham a son in his (a) old age, at the set time of which God had
spoken to him.



(a) Therefore the miracle was greater.
#BCV:Genesis 21:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 21:7>Genesis 21:7</verse></h3>



And she said, (b) Who would have said unto Abraham, that Sarah should have given children suck?
for I have born [him] a son in his old age.



(b) She accuses herself of ingratitude, that she did not believe the angel.
#BCV:Genesis 21:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 21:9>Genesis 21:9</verse></h3>



And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, which she had born unto Abraham, (c) mocking.



(c) He derided God's promise made to Isaac which the apostle calls persecution (<bcv=Gal 4:29>Gal 4:29</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 21:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 21:12>Genesis 21:12</verse></h3>



And God said unto Abraham, Let it not be grievous in thy sight because of the lad, and because of
thy bondwoman; in all that Sarah hath said unto thee, hearken unto her voice; for in Isaac shall thy
seed be (d) called.



(d) The promised seed will be from Isaac, and not from Ishmael, (<bcv=Rom 9:7>Rom 9:7</bcv>;<bcv=Heb 11:18> Heb 11:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 21:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 21:13>Genesis 21:13</verse></h3>



And also of the son of the bondwoman will I make (e) a nation, because he [is] thy seed.



(e) The Ishmaelites will come from him.
#BCV:Genesis 21:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 21:14>Genesis 21:14</verse></h3>



And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and took bread, and a bottle of water, and gave [it] unto
Hagar, putting [it] on her shoulder, and the child, and (f) sent her away: and she departed, and
wandered in the wilderness of Beersheba.



(f) True faith renounces all natural affections to obey God's commandment.
#BCV:Genesis 21:17
<h3><verse=Genesis 21:17>Genesis 21:17</verse></h3>

<page=52>And God (g) heard the voice of the lad; and the angel of God called to Hagar out of heaven, and
said unto her, What aileth thee, Hagar? fear not; for God hath heard the voice of the lad where he
[is].



(g) For his promise sake made to Abraham; and not because the child had discretion and judgment
to pray.
#BCV:Genesis 21:19
<h3><verse=Genesis 21:19>Genesis 21:19</verse></h3>



And God (h) opened her eyes, and she saw a well of water; and she went, and filled the bottle with
water, and gave the lad drink.



(h) Unless God opens our eyes, we can neither see, nor use the means which are before us.
#BCV:Genesis 21:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 21:20>Genesis 21:20</verse></h3>



And God was (i) with the lad; and he grew, and dwelt in the wilderness, and became an archer.



(i) Concerning outward things God caused him to prosper.
#BCV:Genesis 21:24
<h3><verse=Genesis 21:24>Genesis 21:24</verse></h3>



And Abraham said, I will (k) swear.



(k) So that it is a lawful thing to take an oath in matters of importance, to justify the truth, and to
assure others of our sincerity.
#BCV:Genesis 21:26
<h3><verse=Genesis 21:26>Genesis 21:26</verse></h3>



And Abimelech said, (l) I wot not who hath done this thing: neither didst thou tell me, neither yet
heard I [of it], but to day.



(l) Wicked servants do many evils unknown to their masters.
#BCV:Genesis 21:32
<h3><verse=Genesis 21:32>Genesis 21:32</verse></h3>



Thus they made a (m) covenant at Beersheba: then Abimelech rose up, and Phichol the chief captain
of his host, and they returned into the land of the Philistines.



(m) Thus we see that the godly, concerning outward things may make peace with the wicked that do
not know the true God.
#BCV:Genesis 21:33
<h3><verse=Genesis 21:33>Genesis 21:33</verse></h3>

<page=53>And [Abraham] planted a grove in Beersheba, and (n) called there on the name of the LORD, the
everlasting God.



(n) That is, he worshipped God in all points of true religion.

<h2>Genesis 22</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 22:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 22:2>Genesis 22:2</verse></h3>

<page=54>And he said, Take now thy son, thine only [son] Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land
of (a) Moriah; and (b) offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will
tell thee of.



(a) Signifying the fear of God, in which place he was also honoured, Solomon later building the
temple there.



(b) This was the main point of his temptation, seeing that he was commanded to offer up him in
whom God had promised to bless all the nations of the world.
#BCV:Genesis 22:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 22:5>Genesis 22:5</verse></h3>



And Abraham said unto his young men, Abide ye here with the ass; and I and the lad will go yonder
and worship, and (e) come again to you.



(e) He did not doubt that God would accomplish his promise, even if he should sacrifice his son.
#BCV:Genesis 22:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 22:8>Genesis 22:8</verse></h3>

And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a (d) burnt offering: so they went
both of them together.

(d) The only way to overcome all temptation is to rest on God's providence.
#BCV:Genesis 22:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 22:9>Genesis 22:9</verse></h3>

And they came to the place which God had told him of; and Abraham built an altar there, and laid
the wood in order, and (e) bound Isaac his son, and laid him on the altar upon the wood.

(e) For it is likely that his father had told him God's commandment, to which he showed himself
obedient.
#BCV:Genesis 22:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 22:12>Genesis 22:12</verse></h3>

And he said, Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I (f)
know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only [son] from me.

(f) That is, by your true obedience you have declared your living faith.
#BCV:Genesis 22:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 22:14>Genesis 22:14</verse></h3>

the LORD it shall (g) be seen.

(g) The name is changed to show that God both sees and provides secretly for his and also evidently
is seen, and felt in the right time.
#BCV:Genesis 22:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 22:16>Genesis 22:16</verse></h3>

And said, By (h) myself have I sworn, saith the LORD, for because thou hast done this thing, and
hast not withheld thy son, thine only [son]:

(h) Signifying, that there is none greater then he.
#BCV:Genesis 22:24
<h3><verse=Genesis 22:24>Genesis 22:24</verse></h3>

And his (i) concubine, whose name [was] Reumah, she bare also Tebah, and Gaham, and Thahash,
and Maachah.

(i) Concubine is often used to refer to those women who were inferior to the wives.

<h2>Genesis 23</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 23:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 23:3>Genesis 23:3</verse></h3>

<page=56>And Abraham (a) stood up from before his dead, and spake unto the sons of Heth, saying,

(a) That is, when he had mourned: so the godly may mourn if they do not pass measure, and the
natural affection is commendable.
#BCV:Genesis 23:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 23:6>Genesis 23:6</verse></h3>

Hear us, my lord: thou [art] a (b) mighty prince among us: in the choice of our sepulchres bury thy
dead; none of us shall withhold from thee his sepulchre, but that thou mayest bury thy dead.

(b) That is godly or excellent: for so do the Hebrews speak of all things that are notable, because all
excellency comes from God.
#BCV:Genesis 23:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 23:10>Genesis 23:10</verse></h3>

And Ephron dwelt among the children of Heth: and Ephron the Hittite answered Abraham in the
audience of the children of Heth, [even] of all that (c) went in at the gate of his city, saying,



(c) Meaning all the citizens and inhabitants.
#BCV:Genesis 23:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 23:12>Genesis 23:12</verse></h3>



And Abraham (d) bowed down himself before the people of the land.



(d) To show that he had them in good estimation and reverence.
#BCV:Genesis 23:15
<h3><verse=Genesis 23:15>Genesis 23:15</verse></h3>



My lord, hearken unto me: the land [is worth] four hundred (e) shekels of silver; what [is] that
betwixt me and thee? bury therefore thy dead.



(e) The common shekel is about 20 pence, so then 400 shekels is equal to 33 pounds, 6 shillings and
8 pence at 5 shilling sterling to the ounce.
#BCV:Genesis 23:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 23:20>Genesis 23:20</verse></h3>



And the field, and the cave that [is] therein, were made sure unto Abraham for a possession of a
buryingplace (f) by the sons of Heth.



(f) That is, all the people confirmed the sale.

<h2>Genesis 24</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 24:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:2>Genesis 24:2</verse></h3>

<page=57>And Abraham said unto his eldest servant of his house, that ruled over all that he had, (a) Put, I pray
thee, thy hand under my thigh:



(a) Which ceremony declared, the servants obedience towards his master, and the master's power
over the servant.
#BCV:Genesis 24:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:3>Genesis 24:3</verse></h3>



And I will make thee (b) swear by the LORD, the God of heaven, and the God of the earth, that
thou shalt not take a wife unto my son of the daughters of the Canaanites, among whom I dwell:



(b) This shows that an oath may be required in a lawful cause.
#BCV:Genesis 24:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:4>Genesis 24:4</verse></h3>



But thou shalt go unto my (c) country, and to my kindred, and take a wife unto my son Isaac.



(c) He did not want his son to marry out of the godly family: for the problems that come from
marrying the ungodly are set forth in various places throughout the scriptures.
#BCV:Genesis 24:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:6>Genesis 24:6</verse></h3>



And Abraham said unto him, Beware thou that thou bring not my son (d) thither again.



(d) Lest he should love the inheritance promised.
#BCV:Genesis 24:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:10>Genesis 24:10</verse></h3>



And the servant took ten camels of the camels of his master, and departed; for all the goods of his
master [were] in his hand: and he arose, and went to Mesopotamia, unto the (e) city of Nahor.



(e) That is, to Charran.
#BCV:Genesis 24:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:12>Genesis 24:12</verse></h3>



And he said, O (f) LORD God of my master Abraham, I pray thee, send me good speed this day,
and shew kindness unto my master Abraham.



(f) He grounds his prayer on God's promise made to his master.
#BCV:Genesis 24:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:14>Genesis 24:14</verse></h3>


<page=58>(g) And let it come to pass, that the damsel to whom I shall say, Let down thy pitcher, I pray thee,
that I may drink; and she shall say, Drink, and I will give thy camels drink also: [let the same be] she
[that] thou hast appointed for thy servant Isaac; and thereby shall I know that thou hast shewed
kindness unto my master.



(g) The servant moved by God's spirit sought assurance by a sign, as to whether or not God would
prosper his journey.
#BCV:Genesis 24:15
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:15>Genesis 24:15</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, before he had done speaking, that, behold, (h) Rebekah came out, who was
born to Bethuel, son of Milcah, the wife of Nahor, Abraham's brother, with her pitcher upon her
shoulder.



(h) God gives success to all things that are done for the glory of his name and according to his word.
#BCV:Genesis 24:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:16>Genesis 24:16</verse></h3>



And the damsel [was] very fair to look upon, a virgin, neither had any man known her: and she (i)
went down to the well, and filled her pitcher, and came up.



(i) Here is declared that God hears the prayers of his own, and grants their requests.
#BCV:Genesis 24:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:22>Genesis 24:22</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, as the camels had done drinking, that the man took a golden (k) earring of (l)
half a shekel weight, and two bracelets for her hands of ten [shekels] weight of gold;



(k) God permitted many things both in apparel and other things which are now forbidden especially
when they do not suit our humble estate.



(l) The golden shekel is meant here, not silver.
#BCV:Genesis 24:27
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:27>Genesis 24:27</verse></h3>



And he said, Blessed [be] the LORD God of my master Abraham, who hath not left destitute my
master of his mercy (m) and his truth: I [being] in the way, the LORD led me to the house of my
master's brethren.



(m) He does not boast in his good fortune (as the wicked do) but acknowledges that God has dealt
mercifully with this matter in keeping his promise.
#BCV:Genesis 24:30
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:30>Genesis 24:30</verse></h3>

<page=59>And it came to pass, when he saw the earring and bracelets upon his sister's hands, and when he
heard the words of Rebekah his sister, saying, Thus spake the man unto me; that he came unto the
man; and, behold, (n) he stood by the camels at the well.



(n) For he waited on God's hand, who heard his prayer.
#BCV:Genesis 24:32
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:32>Genesis 24:32</verse></h3>



And the man came into the house: and (o) he ungirded his (p) camels, and gave straw and provender
for the camels, and water to wash his feet, and the men's feet that [were] with him.



(o) That is, Laban.



(p) The gentle entertainment of strangers practised by the godly fathers.
#BCV:Genesis 24:33
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:33>Genesis 24:33</verse></h3>



And there was set [meat] before him to eat: but he said, I (q) will not eat, until I have told mine
errand. And he said, Speak on.



(q) The faithfulness that servants owe to their masters, causes them to prefer their masters business
before their own needs.
#BCV:Genesis 24:35
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:35>Genesis 24:35</verse></h3>



And the LORD hath (r) blessed my master greatly; and he is become great: and he hath given him
flocks, and herds, and silver, and gold, and menservants, and maidservants, and camels, and asses.



(r) To bless signifies here to enrich, or increase with substance as the text in the same verse declares.
#BCV:Genesis 24:37
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:37>Genesis 24:37</verse></h3>



And my master made me swear, saying, (s) Thou shalt not take a wife to my son of the daughters of
the Canaanites, in whose land I dwell:



(s) The Canaanites were cursed, and therefore the godly could not join with them in marriage.
#BCV:Genesis 24:38
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:38>Genesis 24:38</verse></h3>



But thou shalt go unto my (t) father's house, and to my kindred, and take a wife unto my son.



(t) Meaning among his relatives, as in (<bcv=Gen 24:40>Gen 24:40</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 24:41
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:41>Genesis 24:41</verse></h3>

<page=60>Then shalt thou be clear from [this] (u) my oath, when thou comest to my kindred; and if they give
not thee [one], thou shalt be clear from my oath.



(u) Which by my authority I caused you to make.
#BCV:Genesis 24:45
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:45>Genesis 24:45</verse></h3>



And before I had done speaking in mine (x) heart, behold, Rebekah came forth with her pitcher on
her shoulder; and she went down unto the well, and drew [water]: and I said unto her, Let me drink,
I pray thee.



(x) Signifying that this prayer was not spoken by the mouth, but only in his heart.
#BCV:Genesis 24:48
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:48>Genesis 24:48</verse></h3>




(y) And I bowed down my head, and worshipped the LORD, and blessed the LORD God of my
master Abraham, which had led me in the right way to take my master's brother's daughter unto his

<h1>son.</h1>




(y) He shows our duty when we have received any benefit from the Lord.
#BCV:Genesis 24:49
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:49>Genesis 24:49</verse></h3>



And now if ye will deal (z) kindly and truly with my master, tell me: and if not, tell me; that I may
turn to the (a) right hand, or to the left.



(z) If you will freely and faithfully give your daughter to my master's son.



(a) That is, that I may look elsewhere.
#BCV:Genesis 24:50
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:50>Genesis 24:50</verse></h3>



Then Laban and Bethuel answered and said, (b) The thing proceedeth from the LORD: we cannot
speak unto thee bad or good.



(b) As soon as they perceived that it was God's ordinance they yielded.
#BCV:Genesis 24:57
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:57>Genesis 24:57</verse></h3>



And they said, We will call the damsel, and enquire at (c) her mouth.

<page=61>(c) This shows that parents do not have the authority to marry their children without the consent of
both parties.
#BCV:Genesis 24:60
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:60>Genesis 24:60</verse></h3>



And they blessed Rebekah, and said unto her, Thou [art] our sister, be thou [the mother] of
thousands of millions, and let thy seed possess the (d) gate of those which hate them.



(d) That is, let them be victorious over their enemies: a blessing that is fully accomplished through
Jesus Christ.
#BCV:Genesis 24:63
<h3><verse=Genesis 24:63>Genesis 24:63</verse></h3>



And Isaac went out to (e) meditate in the field at the eventide: and he lifted up his eyes, and saw, and,
behold, the camels [were] coming.



(e) This was the habit of the godly fathers to meditate on God's promises, and to pray for the
accomplishment of it. The custom was that the bride was brought to her husband, her head covered,
a token of humbleness and purity.

<h2>Genesis 25</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 25:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 25:1>Genesis 25:1</verse></h3>

<page=62>Then again Abraham (a) took a wife, and her name [was] Keturah.

(a) While Sarah was yet alive.
#BCV:Genesis 25:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 25:6>Genesis 25:6</verse></h3>



But unto the (b) sons of the (c) concubines, which Abraham had, Abraham (d) gave gifts, and sent
them away from Isaac his son, while he yet lived, eastward, unto the east country.



(b) For by virtue of God's word he not only had Isaac, but begat many more.



(c) See (<bcv=Gen 22:24>Gen 22:24</bcv>).



(d) To avoid the disputing that otherwise might have come because of the heritage.
#BCV:Genesis 25:17
<h3><verse=Genesis 25:17>Genesis 25:17</verse></h3>



And these [are] the years of the life of Ishmael, an hundred and thirty and seven years: and he gave
up the ghost and died; and was gathered unto his (f) people.



(f) Who dwelt among the Arabians, and were separate from the blessed seed.
#BCV:Genesis 25:18
<h3><verse=Genesis 25:18>Genesis 25:18</verse></h3>



And they dwelt from Havilah unto Shur, that [is] before Egypt, as thou goest toward Assyria: [and]
he died (g) in the presence of all his brethren.



(g) He means that his lot fell to dwell among his brethren as the angel promised.
#BCV:Genesis 25:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 25:22>Genesis 25:22</verse></h3>



And the children struggled together within her; and she said, If [it be] so, why [am] I (h) thus? And
she went (i) to enquire of the LORD.



(h) That is, with child, seeing one shall destroy another.



(i) For that is the only refuge in all our miseries.
#BCV:Genesis 25:32
<h3><verse=Genesis 25:32>Genesis 25:32</verse></h3>



And Esau said, Behold, I [am] at the point to die: and what (k) profit shall this birthright do to me?

<page=63>(k) The reprobate do not value God's benefits unless they feel them presently, and therefore they
prefer present pleasures.
#BCV:Genesis 25:33
<h3><verse=Genesis 25:33>Genesis 25:33</verse></h3>



And Jacob said, Swear to me this day; and he sware unto him: and he (l) sold his birthright unto
Jacob.



(l) Thus the wicked prefer their worldly conveniences over God's spiritual graces: but the children of
God do the opposite.

<h2>Genesis 26</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 26:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 26:1>Genesis 26:1</verse></h3>

<page=64>And there was a famine in the (a) land, beside the first famine that was in the days of Abraham. And
Isaac went unto Abimelech king of the Philistines unto Gerar.



(a) In the land of Canaan.
#BCV:Genesis 26:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 26:2>Genesis 26:2</verse></h3>



And the LORD appeared unto him, and said, (b) Go not down into Egypt; dwell in the land which I
shall tell thee of:



(b) God's providence always watches to direct the ways of his children.
#BCV:Genesis 26:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 26:5>Genesis 26:5</verse></h3>



Because that Abraham (c) obeyed my voice, and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes,
and my laws.



(c) He commends Abraham's obedience, because Isaac should be even more ready to follow the
same: for as God made this promise of his free mercy, so does the confirmation of it proceed from
the same fountain.
#BCV:Genesis 26:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 26:7>Genesis 26:7</verse></h3>



And the men of the place asked [him] of his wife; and he said, She [is] my sister: (d) for he feared to
say, [She is] my wife; lest, [said he], the men of the place should kill me for Rebekah; because she
[was] fair to look upon.



(d) By which we see that fear and distrust is found in the most faithful.
#BCV:Genesis 26:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 26:8>Genesis 26:8</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when he had been there a long time, that Abimelech king of the Philistines
looked out at a window, and saw, and, behold, Isaac [was] (e) sporting with Rebekah his wife.



(e) Or showing some familiar sign of love, by which it might be known that she was his wife.
#BCV:Genesis 26:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 26:10>Genesis 26:10</verse></h3>

<page=65>And Abimelech said, What [is] this thou hast done unto us? one of the people might lightly have
lien with thy wife, and thou shouldest have brought (f) guiltiness upon us.



(f) In all ages men were persuaded that God's vengeance would come on adulterers.
#BCV:Genesis 26:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 26:14>Genesis 26:14</verse></h3>



For he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds, and great store of servants: and the
Philistines (g) envied him.



(g) The malicious always envy the graces of God in others.
#BCV:Genesis 26:17
<h3><verse=Genesis 26:17>Genesis 26:17</verse></h3>



And Isaac departed thence, and pitched his tent in the (k) valley of Gerar, and dwelt there.



(k) The Hebrew word signifies a flood, or valley, where water at any time runs.
#BCV:Genesis 26:24
<h3><verse=Genesis 26:24>Genesis 26:24</verse></h3>



And the LORD appeared unto him the same night, and said, I [am] the God (i) of Abraham thy
father: fear not, for I [am] with thee, and will bless thee, and multiply thy seed for my servant
Abraham's sake.



(i) God assures Isaac against all fear by rehearsing the promise made to Abraham.
#BCV:Genesis 26:25
<h3><verse=Genesis 26:25>Genesis 26:25</verse></h3>



And he builded an (x) altar there, and called upon the name of the LORD, and pitched his tent there:
and there Isaac's servants digged a well.



(x) To signify that he would serve no other God, but the God of his father Abraham.
#BCV:Genesis 26:29
<h3><verse=Genesis 26:29>Genesis 26:29</verse></h3>




(l) That thou wilt do us no hurt, as we have not touched thee, and as we have done unto thee
nothing but good, and have sent thee away in peace: thou [art] now the blessed of the LORD.



(l) The Hebrews in swearing begin commonly with "If" and understand the rest, that is, that God
will punish him who breaks the oath: here the wicked show that they are afraid lest that happen to
them which they would do to others.

<h2>Genesis 27</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 27:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 27:4>Genesis 27:4</verse></h3>

<page=66>And make me savoury meat, such as I love, and bring [it] to me, that I may eat; that my (a) soul may
bless thee before I die.



(a) The carnal affection he had for his son made him forget what God spoke to his wife. (<bcv=Gen 25:23>Gen 25:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 27:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 27:9>Genesis 27:9</verse></h3>




(b) Go now to the flock, and fetch me from thence two good kids of the goats; and I will make
them savoury meat for thy father, such as he loveth:



(b) This trickery is worthy of blame because she should have waited for God to perform his promise.
#BCV:Genesis 27:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 27:13>Genesis 27:13</verse></h3>



And his mother said unto him, (c) Upon me [be] thy curse, my son: only obey my voice, and go
fetch me [them].



(c) The assurance of God's decree made her bold.
#BCV:Genesis 27:19
<h3><verse=Genesis 27:19>Genesis 27:19</verse></h3>



And Jacob said unto his father, (d) I [am] Esau thy firstborn; I have done according as thou badest
me: arise, I pray thee, sit and eat of my venison, that thy soul may bless me.



(d) Although Jacob was assured of this blessing by faith: yet he did evil to seek it by lies, even more
because he abuses God's name through it.
#BCV:Genesis 27:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 27:22>Genesis 27:22</verse></h3>



And Jacob went near unto Isaac his father; and he felt him, and said, The (e) voice [is] Jacob's voice,
but the hands [are] the hands of Esau.



(e) This declares that he suspected something, yet God would not have his decree altered.
#BCV:Genesis 27:33
<h3><verse=Genesis 27:33>Genesis 27:33</verse></h3>



And Isaac (f) trembled very exceedingly, and said, Who? where [is] he that hath taken venison, and
brought [it] me, and I have eaten of all before thou camest, and have blessed him? yea, [and] he shall
be blessed.

<page=67>(f) In perceiving his error, by appointing his heir against God's sentence pronounced before.
#BCV:Genesis 27:36
<h3><verse=Genesis 27:36>Genesis 27:36</verse></h3>



And he said, Is not he rightly named (g) Jacob? for he hath supplanted me these two times: he took
away my birthright; and, behold, now he hath taken away my blessing. And he said, Hast thou not
reserved a blessing for me?



(g) In (<bcv=Gen 25:26>Gen 25:26</bcv>) he was so called because he held his brother by the heel, as though he would
overthrow him: and therefore he is here called an overthrower, or deceiver.

#BCV:Genesis 27:37
<h3><verse=Genesis 27:37>Genesis 27:37</verse></h3>



And Isaac answered and said unto Esau, Behold, I have made
him (h) thy lord, and all his brethren have I given to him for servants; and with corn and wine have I
sustained him: and what shall I do now unto thee, my son?



(h) For Isaac did this as he was the minister and prophet of God.
#BCV:Genesis 27:40
<h3><verse=Genesis 27:40>Genesis 27:40</verse></h3>



And (i) by thy sword shalt thou live, and shalt (k) serve thy brother; and it shall come to pass when
thou shalt have the dominion, that thou shalt break his yoke from off thy neck.



(i) Because your enemies will be all around you.



(k) Which was fulfilled in his posterity the Idumeans: who were tributaries for a time to Israel, and
later came to freedom.
#BCV:Genesis 27:41
<h3><verse=Genesis 27:41>Genesis 27:41</verse></h3>



And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing wherewith his father blessed him: and Esau said in
his heart, The days of mourning for my father are at hand; (l) then will I slay my brother Jacob.



(l) Hypocrites only abstain from doing evil for fear of men.
#BCV:Genesis 27:42
<h3><verse=Genesis 27:42>Genesis 27:42</verse></h3>



And these words of Esau her elder son were told to Rebekah: and she sent and called Jacob her
younger son, and said unto him, Behold, thy brother Esau, (m) as touching thee, doth comfort
himself, [purposing] to kill thee.



(m) He hopes to recover his birthright by killing you.
#BCV:Genesis 27:45
<h3><verse=Genesis 27:45>Genesis 27:45</verse></h3>

<page=68>Until thy brother's anger turn away from thee, and he forget [that] which thou hast done to him:
then I will send, and fetch thee from thence: why should I be (n) deprived also of you both in one
day?



(n) For the wicked son will kill the godly: and the plague of God will later come on the wicked son.
#BCV:Genesis 27:46
<h3><verse=Genesis 27:46>Genesis 27:46</verse></h3>



And Rebekah said to Isaac, I am weary of my life because of the (o) daughters of Heth: if Jacob
take a wife of the daughters of Heth, such as these [which are] of the daughters of the land, (p)
what good shall my life do me?



(o) Who were Esau's wives.



(p) By this she persuaded Isaac to agree to Jacob's leaving.

<h2>Genesis 28</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 28:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 28:1>Genesis 28:1</verse></h3>

<page=69>And Isaac called Jacob, and (a) blessed him, and charged him, and said unto him, Thou shalt not
take a wife of the daughters of Canaan.



(a) This second blessing was to confirm Jacob's faith, lest he should think that his father had given it
without God's leading.
#BCV:Genesis 28:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 28:4>Genesis 28:4</verse></h3>



And give thee the blessing of Abraham, to thee, and to thy seed with thee; that thou mayest inherit
the land wherein thou art a (b) stranger, which God gave unto Abraham.



(b) The godly fathers were continually reminded that they were but strangers in this world: so that
they would lift up their eyes to the heavens where they have a certain dwelling.
#BCV:Genesis 28:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 28:9>Genesis 28:9</verse></h3>



Then went Esau unto Ishmael, and took unto the wives which he had Mahalath the daughter of (c)
Ishmael Abraham's son, the sister of Nebajoth, to be his wife.



(c) Thinking by this to have reconciled himself to his father, but all in vain: for he does not take
away the cause of the evil.
#BCV:Genesis 28:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 28:12>Genesis 28:12</verse></h3>



And he dreamed, and behold a (d) ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven:
and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it.



(d) Christ is the ladder by which God and man are joined together, and by whom the angels minister
to us: all graces are given to us by him, and we ascend to heaven by him.
#BCV:Genesis 28:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 28:13>Genesis 28:13</verse></h3>



And, behold, the LORD stood above it, and said, I [am] the LORD God of Abraham thy father,
and the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou liest, to thee (e) will I give it, and to thy seed;



(e) He felt the force of this promise only by faith: for all his life he was a stranger in this land.
#BCV:Genesis 28:17
<h3><verse=Genesis 28:17>Genesis 28:17</verse></h3>

<page=70>And he was (f) afraid, and said, How dreadful [is] this place! this [is] none other but the house of
God, and this [is] the gate of heaven.



(f) He was touched with a godly fear and reverence.
#BCV:Genesis 28:18
<h3><verse=Genesis 28:18>Genesis 28:18</verse></h3>



And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put [for] his pillows, and (g)
set it up [for] a pillar, and poured oil upon the top of it.



(g) To be a reminder of the vision shown to him.
#BCV:Genesis 28:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 28:20>Genesis 28:20</verse></h3>



And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, If (h) God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go,
and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on,



(h) He does not bind God under this condition, but acknowledges his infirmity, and promises to be
thankful.

<h2>Genesis 29</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 29:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 29:1>Genesis 29:1</verse></h3>

<page=71>Then Jacob (a) went on his journey, and came into the land of the people of the east.

(a) Or, "lifted up his feet".
#BCV:Genesis 29:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 29:2>Genesis 29:2</verse></h3>



And he looked, and behold a well in the field, (b) and, lo, there [were] three flocks of sheep lying by
it; for out of that well they watered the flocks: and a great stone [was] upon the well's mouth.



(b) Thus he was directed by the providence of God, who brought him to Laban's house.
#BCV:Genesis 29:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 29:4>Genesis 29:4</verse></h3>



And Jacob said unto them, My (c) brethren, whence [be] ye? And they said, Of Haran [are] we.



(c) It seems that in those days the custom was to call even strangers, brethren.
#BCV:Genesis 29:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 29:6>Genesis 29:6</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, (d) [Is] he well? And they said, [He is] well: and, behold, Rachel his daughter
cometh with the sheep.



(d) Or, "he is in peace?" by which the Hebrews mean prosperity.
#BCV:Genesis 29:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 29:13>Genesis 29:13</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when Laban heard the tidings of Jacob his sister's son, that he ran to meet him,
and embraced him, and kissed him, and brought him to his house. And he told Laban (e) all these
things.



(e) That is, the reason why he departed from his father's house, and what he saw during his journey.
#BCV:Genesis 29:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 29:14>Genesis 29:14</verse></h3>



And Laban said to him, Surely thou [art] my (f) bone and my flesh. And he abode with him the
space of a month.



(f) That is, of my blood and kindred.
#BCV:Genesis 29:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 29:20>Genesis 29:20</verse></h3>

#BCV:gen 29:20
<h3><verse=gen 29:20>gen 29:20</verse></h3>



he had to her.



(g) Meaning after the years were accomplished.
#BCV:Genesis 29:23
<h3><verse=Genesis 29:23>Genesis 29:23</verse></h3>



And (h) it came to pass in the evening, that he took Leah his daughter, and brought her to him; and
he went in unto her.



(h) The reason Jacob was deceived was that in ancient times the wife was covered with a veil, when
she was brought to her husband as a sign of purity and humbleness.
#BCV:Genesis 29:26
<h3><verse=Genesis 29:26>Genesis 29:26</verse></h3>



And Laban said, (i) It must not be so done in our country, to give the younger before the firstborn.



(i) He valued the profit he had from Jacob's service more than either his promise or the customs of
the country, though he used custom for his excuse.
#BCV:Genesis 29:31
<h3><verse=Genesis 29:31>Genesis 29:31</verse></h3>



And when the LORD saw that Leah [was] hated, he (k) opened her womb: but Rachel [was] barren.



(k) This declares that often they who are despised by men are favoured by God.
#BCV:Genesis 29:32
<h3><verse=Genesis 29:32>Genesis 29:32</verse></h3>



And Leah conceived, and bare a son, and she called his name Reuben: for she said, Surely the (l)
LORD hath looked upon my affliction; now therefore my husband will (m) love me.



(l) By this it appears that she had sought help from God in her affliction.



(m) For children are a great cause of mutual love between man and wife.

<h2>Genesis 30</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 30:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 30:2>Genesis 30:2</verse></h3>

<page=73>And Jacob's anger was kindled against Rachel: and he said, [Am] I in (a) God's stead, who hath
withheld from thee the fruit of the womb?



(a) It is only God who makes one barren or fruitful, and therefore I am not at fault.
#BCV:Genesis 30:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 30:3>Genesis 30:3</verse></h3>



And she said, Behold my maid Bilhah, go in unto her; and she shall bear upon my (b) knees, that I
may also have children by her.



(b) I will receive her children on my lap, as though they were my own.
#BCV:Genesis 30:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 30:8>Genesis 30:8</verse></h3>



And Rachel said, With great wrestlings have I wrestled with my sister, (c) and I have prevailed: and
she called his name Naphtali.



(c) The arrogancy of man's nature appears in that she condemns her sister, after she has received
this benefit from God to bear children.
#BCV:Genesis 30:11
<h3><verse=Genesis 30:11>Genesis 30:11</verse></h3>



And Leah said, (d) A troop cometh: and she called his name Gad.



(d) That is, God increases me with a multitude of children for so Jacob explains this name Gad (Gen
49:19).
#BCV:Genesis 30:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 30:14>Genesis 30:14</verse></h3>



And Reuben went in the days of wheat harvest, and found (e) mandrakes in the field, and brought
them unto his mother Leah. Then Rachel said to Leah, Give me, I pray thee, of thy son's mandrakes.



(e) Which is a kind of herb whose root has a likeness to the figure of a man.
#BCV:Genesis 30:18
<h3><verse=Genesis 30:18>Genesis 30:18</verse></h3>



And Leah said, God hath given me my hire, because I have given my (f) maiden to my husband: and
she called his name Issachar.



(f) Instead of acknowledging her fault she boasts as if God had rewarded her for it.
#BCV:Genesis 30:23
<h3><verse=Genesis 30:23>Genesis 30:23</verse></h3>

<page=74>And she conceived, and bare a son; and said, God hath taken away my (g) reproach:

(g) Because fruitfulness came as God's blessing, who said "Increase and multiply", barrenness was
counted as a curse.
#BCV:Genesis 30:30
<h3><verse=Genesis 30:30>Genesis 30:30</verse></h3>



For [it was] little which thou hadst before I [came], and it is [now] increased unto a multitude; and
the LORD hath blessed thee since my coming: and now when shall (h) I provide for mine own
house also?



(h) The order of nature requires that every one provide for his own family.
#BCV:Genesis 30:32
<h3><verse=Genesis 30:32>Genesis 30:32</verse></h3>



I will pass through all thy flock to day, removing from thence all the speckled and spotted cattle, and
all the brown cattle among the sheep, and the spotted and speckled among the goats: (i) and [of
such] shall be my hire.



(i) That which is spotted, from now on.
#BCV:Genesis 30:33
<h3><verse=Genesis 30:33>Genesis 30:33</verse></h3>



So shall my (k) righteousness answer for me in time to come, when it shall come for my hire before
thy face: every one that [is] not speckled and spotted among the goats, and brown among the sheep,
that shall be counted stolen with me.



(k) God shall attest to my righteous dealing by rewarding my labours.
#BCV:Genesis 30:37
<h3><verse=Genesis 30:37>Genesis 30:37</verse></h3>



And Jacob (l) took him rods of green poplar, and of the hazel and chesnut tree; and pilled white
strakes in them, and made the white appear which [was] in the rods.



(l) Jacob used no deceit in this for it was God's commandment as he declares in (<bcv=Gen 31:9>Gen 31:9</bcv>, Gen
31:11).
#BCV:Genesis 30:41
<h3><verse=Genesis 30:41>Genesis 30:41</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, whensoever the (m) stronger cattle did conceive, that Jacob laid the rods before
the eyes of the cattle in the gutters, that they might conceive among the rods.

<page=75>(m) As they which took the ram about September and brought forth about March: so the feebler in
March and lamb in September.

<h2>Genesis 31</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 31:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 31:1>Genesis 31:1</verse></h3>

<page=76>And he heard the (a) words of Laban's sons, saying, Jacob hath taken away all that [was] our father's;
and of [that] which [was] our father's hath he gotten all this glory.



(a) The children put in words what the father disguised in his heart for the covetous think that
whatever they cannot take, is taken from them.
#BCV:Genesis 31:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 31:5>Genesis 31:5</verse></h3>



And said unto them, I see your father's countenance, that it [is] not toward me as before; but the (b)
God of my father hath been with me.



(b) The God whom my fathers worshipped.
#BCV:Genesis 31:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 31:9>Genesis 31:9</verse></h3>



Thus (c) God hath taken away the cattle of your father, and given [them] to me.



(c) This declares that the thing Jacob did before, was by God's commandment, and not through
deceit.
#BCV:Genesis 31:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 31:13>Genesis 31:13</verse></h3>




(d) I [am] the God of Bethel, where thou anointedst the pillar, [and] where thou vowedst a vow unto
me: now arise, get thee out from this land, and return unto the land of thy kindred.



(d) This angel was Christ who appeared to Jacob in Bethel: and by this it appears that he had taught
his wives the fear of God: for he talks as though they knew this thing.
#BCV:Genesis 31:15
<h3><verse=Genesis 31:15>Genesis 31:15</verse></h3>



Are we not counted of him strangers? for he hath (e) sold us, and hath quite devoured also our
money.



(e) For they were given to Jacob as payment for his service, which was a kind of sale.
#BCV:Genesis 31:19
<h3><verse=Genesis 31:19>Genesis 31:19</verse></h3>



And Laban went to shear his sheep: and Rachel had stolen the (f) images that [were] her father's.



(f) For so the word here signifies, because Laban calls them gods, (<bcv=Gen 31:30>Gen 31:30</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 31:29
<h3><verse=Genesis 31:29>Genesis 31:29</verse></h3>

<page=77>It is in the power of my hand to do you hurt: but the (g) God of your father spake unto me
yesternight, saying, Take thou heed that thou speak not to Jacob either good or bad.



(g) He was an idolater and therefore would not acknowledge the God of Jacob for his God.
#BCV:Genesis 31:42
<h3><verse=Genesis 31:42>Genesis 31:42</verse></h3>



Except the God of my father, the God of Abraham, and the (h) fear of Isaac, had been with me,
surely thou hadst sent me away now empty. God hath seen mine affliction and the labour of my
hands, and rebuked [thee] yesternight.



(h) That is, the God whom Isaac feared and reverenced.
#BCV:Genesis 31:44
<h3><verse=Genesis 31:44>Genesis 31:44</verse></h3>



Now therefore (i) come thou, let us make a covenant, I and thou; and let it be for a witness between
me and thee.



(i) His conscience reproved him for his misbehaviour toward Jacob, and therefore moved him to
seek peace.
#BCV:Genesis 31:47
<h3><verse=Genesis 31:47>Genesis 31:47</verse></h3>



And Laban called it Jegarsahadutha: but Jacob called it (k) Galeed.



(k) The one named the place in the Syrian tongue, and the other in the Hebrew tongue.
#BCV:Genesis 31:49
<h3><verse=Genesis 31:49>Genesis 31:49</verse></h3>



And Mizpah; for he said, The LORD (l) watch between me and thee, when we are absent one from
another.



(l) To punish the trespasser.
#BCV:Genesis 31:50
<h3><verse=Genesis 31:50>Genesis 31:50</verse></h3>



If thou shalt afflict my daughters, or if thou shalt take [other] (m) wives beside my daughters, no
man [is] with us; see, God [is] witness betwixt me and thee.



(m) Nature compels him to condemn that vice, to which through covetousness he forced Jacob.
#BCV:Genesis 31:53
<h3><verse=Genesis 31:53>Genesis 31:53</verse></h3>

#BCV:gen 31:53
<h3><verse=gen 31:53>gen 31:53</verse></h3>



Jacob sware by the (o) fear of his father Isaac.



(n) Behold, how the idolaters mingle the true God with their false gods.



(o) Meaning, by the true God whom Isaac worshipped.
#BCV:Genesis 31:55
<h3><verse=Genesis 31:55>Genesis 31:55</verse></h3>



And early in the morning Laban rose up, and kissed his sons and his daughters, and (p) blessed them:
and Laban departed, and returned unto his place.



(p) We see that there is always some seed of the knowledge of God in the hearts of the wicked.

<h2>Genesis 32</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 32:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 32:2>Genesis 32:2</verse></h3>

<page=79>And when Jacob saw them, he said, (a) This [is] God's host: and he called the name of that place
Mahanaim.

(a) He acknowledges God's benefits: who for the preservation of his, sends hosts of angels.
#BCV:Genesis 32:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 32:4>Genesis 32:4</verse></h3>



And he commanded them, saying, Thus shall ye speak unto my (b) lord Esau; Thy servant Jacob
saith thus, I have sojourned with Laban, and stayed there until now:



(b) He reverenced his brother in worldly things, because he mainly looked to be preferred to the
spiritual promise.
#BCV:Genesis 32:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 32:7>Genesis 32:7</verse></h3>



Then Jacob was (c) greatly afraid and distressed: and he divided the people that [was] with him, and
the flocks, and herds, and the camels, into two bands;



(c) Though he was comforted by the angels, yet the infirmity of the flesh appears.
#BCV:Genesis 32:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 32:10>Genesis 32:10</verse></h3>



I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, and of all the truth, which thou hast shewed unto
thy servant; for with my (d) staff I passed over this Jordan; and now I am become two bands.



(d) that is, poor and without all provision.
#BCV:Genesis 32:11
<h3><verse=Genesis 32:11>Genesis 32:11</verse></h3>



Deliver me, I pray thee, from the hand of my brother, from the hand of Esau: for I fear him, lest he
will come and smite me, [and] the (e) mother with the children.



(e) Meaning, he will put all to death. This proverb comes from those who kill the bird together with
the young ones.
#BCV:Genesis 32:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 32:13>Genesis 32:13</verse></h3>



And he lodged there that same night; and took of that which came to his hand a (f) present for Esau
his brother;

<page=80>(f) Not distrusting God's assistance, but using such means as God had given him.
#BCV:Genesis 32:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 32:20>Genesis 32:20</verse></h3>



And say ye moreover, Behold, thy servant Jacob [is] behind us. For he said, I (g) will appease him
with the present that goeth before me, and afterward I will see his face; peradventure he will accept
of me.



(g) He thought it no less to depart with these goods with the intent that he might follow the
vocation to which God called him.
#BCV:Genesis 32:24
<h3><verse=Genesis 32:24>Genesis 32:24</verse></h3>



And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a (h) man with him until the breaking of the day.



(h) That is, God in the form of a man.
#BCV:Genesis 32:25
<h3><verse=Genesis 32:25>Genesis 32:25</verse></h3>



And when he saw that he (i) prevailed not against him, he touched the hollow of his thigh; and the
hollow of Jacob's thigh was out of joint, as he wrestled with him.



(i) For God assails his with the one hand, and upholds them with the other.
#BCV:Genesis 32:28
<h3><verse=Genesis 32:28>Genesis 32:28</verse></h3>



And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou (k) power
with God and with men, and hast prevailed.



(k) God gave Jacob both power to overcome, and also the praise of the victory.
#BCV:Genesis 32:31
<h3><verse=Genesis 32:31>Genesis 32:31</verse></h3>



And as he passed over Penuel the sun rose upon him, and he (l) halted upon his thigh.



(l) The faithful to overcome their temptations, so that they feel the pain of it, so they would not
boast, except in their humility.

<h2>Genesis 33</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 33:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 33:1>Genesis 33:1</verse></h3>

<page=81>And Jacob lifted up his eyes, and looked, and, behold, Esau came, and with him four hundred men.
And he (a) divided the children unto Leah, and unto Rachel, and unto the two handmaids.

(a) That if the one part were assailed, the other might escape.
#BCV:Genesis 33:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 33:3>Genesis 33:3</verse></h3>



And he passed over before them, and (b) bowed himself to the ground seven times, until he came
near to his brother.



(b) By this gesture he partly revered his brother and partly prayed to God to appease Esau's wrath.
#BCV:Genesis 33:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 33:6>Genesis 33:6</verse></h3>



Then the handmaidens came near, they and their children, and they (c) bowed themselves.



(c) Jacob and his family are the image of the Church under the yoke of tyrants who out of fear are
brought to subjection.
#BCV:Genesis 33:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 33:10>Genesis 33:10</verse></h3>



And Jacob said, Nay, I pray thee, if now I have found grace in thy sight, then receive my present at
my hand: for therefore (d) I have seen thy face, as though I had seen the face of God, and thou wast
pleased with me.



(d) In that his brother embraced him so lovingly, contrary to his expectation, he accepted it as a clear
sign of God's presence.
#BCV:Genesis 33:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 33:14>Genesis 33:14</verse></h3>



Let my lord, I pray thee, pass over before his servant: and I will lead on softly, according as the cattle
that goeth before me and the children be able to endure, until (f) I come unto my lord unto Seir.



(f) He promised that which (as it would seem) he did not plan to do.
#BCV:Genesis 33:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 33:20>Genesis 33:20</verse></h3>



And he erected there an altar, and called (g) it Elelohe-Israel.



(g) He calls the sign, the thing which it signifies, in token that God had mightily delivered him.

<h2>Genesis 34</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 34:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 34:1>Genesis 34:1</verse></h3>

<page=82>And Dinah the daughter of Leah, which she bare unto Jacob, (a) went out to see the daughters of
the land.



(a) This example teaches us that too much liberty is not to be given to youth.
#BCV:Genesis 34:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 34:4>Genesis 34:4</verse></h3>



And Shechem spake unto his father Hamor, saying, (b) Get me this damsel to wife.



(b) This proves that the consent of parents is required in marriage, seeing that even the infidels
observed it as a necessary thing.
#BCV:Genesis 34:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 34:14>Genesis 34:14</verse></h3>



And they said unto them, (c) We cannot do this thing, to give our sister to one that is uncircumcised;
for that [were] a (d) reproach unto us:



(c) They used the holy ordinance of God a means to accomplish their wicked purpose.



(d) As it is abomination for those who are baptized to be joined to infidels.
#BCV:Genesis 34:15
<h3><verse=Genesis 34:15>Genesis 34:15</verse></h3>



But in this will we consent unto you: If ye will be as we [be], that every male of you be (e)
circumcised;



(e) Their fault is even greater since they made religion a disguise for their deceit.
#BCV:Genesis 34:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 34:20>Genesis 34:20</verse></h3>



And Hamor and Shechem his son came unto the (f) gate of their city, and communed with the men
of their city, saying,



(f) For the people used to assemble there, and justice was administered.
#BCV:Genesis 34:21
<h3><verse=Genesis 34:21>Genesis 34:21</verse></h3>



These men [are] (g) peaceable with us; therefore let them dwell in the land, and trade therein; for the
land, behold, [it is] large enough for them; let us take their daughters to us for wives, and let us give
them our daughters.

<page=83>(g) Thus many pretend to speak for a public profit, when in reality they are only speaking for their
own private gain and convenience.
#BCV:Genesis 34:23
<h3><verse=Genesis 34:23>Genesis 34:23</verse></h3>



[Shall] not (h) their cattle and their substance and every beast of theirs [be] ours? only let us consent
unto them, and they will dwell with us.



(h) Thus they do not lack any form of perversion, who prefer their own convenience before the
common good.
#BCV:Genesis 34:25
<h3><verse=Genesis 34:25>Genesis 34:25</verse></h3>



And it came to pass on the third day, when they were sore, that two of the sons of Jacob, (i) Simeon
and Levi, Dinah's brethren, took each man his sword, and came upon the city boldly, and slew (k) all
the males.



(i) For they were the leaders of the company.



(k) The people are punished because of their wicked princes.

<h2>Genesis 35</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 35:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 35:1>Genesis 35:1</verse></h3>

<page=84>And (a) God said unto Jacob, Arise, go up to Bethel, and dwell there: and make there an altar unto
God, that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau thy brother.



(a) God is ever at hand to comfort his people in their troubles.
#BCV:Genesis 35:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 35:2>Genesis 35:2</verse></h3>



Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that [were] with him, Put away the strange gods that
[are] among you, and be (b) clean, and change your garments:



(b) That by this outward act they should show their inward repentance.
#BCV:Genesis 35:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 35:4>Genesis 35:4</verse></h3>



And they gave unto Jacob all the strange gods which [were] in their hand, and [all their] (c) earrings
which [were] in their ears; and Jacob hid them under the oak which [was] by Shechem.



(e) For in this was some sign of superstition, as in tablets and Agnus deis (a cake of wax, stamped
with a lamb bearing a cross or flag, that has been blessed by the Pope).
#BCV:Genesis 35:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 35:5>Genesis 35:5</verse></h3>



And they journeyed: and the (d) terror of God was upon the cities that [were] round about them,
and they did not pursue after the sons of Jacob.



(d) Thus, despite the inconvenience that came before, God delivered Jacob.
#BCV:Genesis 35:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 35:13>Genesis 35:13</verse></h3>



And God (e) went up from him in the place where he talked with him.



(e) As God is said to descend, when he shows some sign of his presence: so he is said to ascend
when a vision is ended.
#BCV:Genesis 35:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 35:16>Genesis 35:16</verse></h3>



And they journeyed from Bethel; and there was but a (f) little way to come to Ephrath: and Rachel
travailed, and she had hard labour.

<page=85>(f) The Hebrew word signifies as much ground as one can cover from resting point to resting point,
which is taken for half a days journey.

#BCV:Genesis 35:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 35:20>Genesis 35:20</verse></h3>



And Jacob set a (g) pillar upon her grave: that [is] the pillar of Rachel's grave unto this day.



(g) The ancient fathers used this ceremony to testify their hope of the resurrection to come, which
was not generally revealed.
#BCV:Genesis 35:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 35:22>Genesis 35:22</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when Israel dwelt in that land, that Reuben went and (h) lay with Bilhah his
father's concubine: and Israel heard [it]. Now the sons of Jacob were twelve:



(h) This teaches that the fathers were not chosen for their merits, but only by God's mercies, whose
election was not changed by their faults.

<h2>Genesis 36</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 36:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 36:1>Genesis 36:1</verse></h3>

<page=86>Now these [are] (a) the generations of Esau, who [is] Edom.



(a) This genealogy declares that Esau was blessed physically and that his father's blessing took place
in worldly things.
#BCV:Genesis 36:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 36:2>Genesis 36:2</verse></h3>



Esau took his wives of the (b) daughters of Canaan; Adah the daughter of Elon the Hittite, and
Aholibamah the daughter of Anah the daughter of Zibeon the Hivite;



(b) Besides those wives spoken of in (<bcv=Gen 26:34>Gen 26:34</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 36:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 36:6>Genesis 36:6</verse></h3>



And Esau took his wives, and his sons, and his daughters, and all the persons of his house, and his
cattle, and all his beasts, and all his substance, which he had got in the land of Canaan; and (c) went
into the country from the face of his brother Jacob.



(c) In this, God's providence appears, which causes the wicked to give place to the godly, that Jacob
might enjoy Canaan according to God's promise.
#BCV:Genesis 36:15
<h3><verse=Genesis 36:15>Genesis 36:15</verse></h3>



These [were] (d) dukes of the sons of Esau: the sons of Eliphaz the firstborn [son] of Esau; duke
Teman, duke Omar, duke Zepho, duke Kenaz,



(d) If God's promises are so sure towards those who are not of his household, how much more will
he perform the same for us?
#BCV:Genesis 36:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 36:20>Genesis 36:20</verse></h3>



These [are] the sons of Seir the Horite, who (e) inhabited the land; Lotan, and Shobal, and Zibeon,
and Anah,



(e) Esau lived there before that.
#BCV:Genesis 36:24
<h3><verse=Genesis 36:24>Genesis 36:24</verse></h3>

<page=87>And these [are] the children of Zibeon; both Ajah, and Anah: this [was that] Anah that found the (f)
mules in the wilderness, as he fed the asses of Zibeon his father.



(f) Who not contented with those kinds of beasts, which God had created, discovered the
monstrous generation of mules between the ass and the mare.
#BCV:Genesis 36:31
<h3><verse=Genesis 36:31>Genesis 36:31</verse></h3>



And these [are] the (g) kings that reigned in the land of Edom, before there reigned any king over
the children of Israel.



(g) The wicked rise up suddenly to honour and perish as quickly: but the inheritance of the children
of God continues forever, (<bcv=Psa 102:28>Psa 102:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 36:37
<h3><verse=Genesis 36:37>Genesis 36:37</verse></h3>



And Samlah died, and Saul of (h) Rehoboth [by] the river reigned in his stead.



(h) Which is by the river Euphrates.
#BCV:Genesis 36:43
<h3><verse=Genesis 36:43>Genesis 36:43</verse></h3>



Duke Magdiel, duke Iram: these [be] the dukes of Edom, according to their habitations in the land
of their possession: he [is] Esau the father of the (i) Edomites.



(i) Of Edom came the Idumeans.

<h2>Genesis 37</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 37:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 37:1>Genesis 37:1</verse></h3>

<page=88>And Jacob dwelt in the land wherein his father was a (a) stranger, in the land of Canaan.

(a) That is, the story of such things as came to him and his family as in (<bcv=Gen 5:1>Gen 5:1</bcv>)
#BCV:Genesis 37:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 37:2>Genesis 37:2</verse></h3>



These [are] the generations of Jacob. Joseph, [being] seventeen years old, was feeding the flock with
his brethren; and the lad [was] with the sons of Bilhah, and with the sons of Zilpah, his father's
wives: and Joseph brought unto his father their evil (b) report.



(b) He complained of the evil words and injuries which they spoke and did to him.
#BCV:Genesis 37:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 37:5>Genesis 37:5</verse></h3>



And Joseph (c) dreamed a dream, and he told [it] his brethren: and they hated him yet the more.



(c) God revealed to him by a dream what should come to pass.
#BCV:Genesis 37:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 37:8>Genesis 37:8</verse></h3>



And his brethren said to him, Shalt thou indeed reign over us? or shalt thou indeed have dominion
over us? And they (d) hated him yet the more for his dreams, and for his words.



(d) The more God shows himself favourable to his own, the more the malice of the wicked rages
against them.
#BCV:Genesis 37:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 37:10>Genesis 37:10</verse></h3>



And he told [it] to his father, and to his brethren: and his father (e) rebuked him, and said unto him,
What [is] this dream that thou hast dreamed? Shall I and thy mother and thy brethren indeed come
to bow down ourselves to thee to the earth?



(e) Not despising the vision, but seeking to appease his brethren.
#BCV:Genesis 37:11
<h3><verse=Genesis 37:11>Genesis 37:11</verse></h3>



And his brethren envied him; but his father (f) observed the saying.



(f) He knew that God was the author of the dream, but he did not understand the meaning.
#BCV:Genesis 37:18
<h3><verse=Genesis 37:18>Genesis 37:18</verse></h3>

<page=89>And when they saw him afar off, even before he came near
unto them, they (g) conspired against him to slay him.



(g) The Holy Spirit does not cover the faults of men, as vain writers do, who make virtues out of
vices.
#BCV:Genesis 37:24
<h3><verse=Genesis 37:24>Genesis 37:24</verse></h3>



And they took him, and cast (h) him into a pit: and the pit [was] empty, [there was] no water in it.



(h) Their hypocrisy appears in this that they feared man more than God: and thought it was not
murder, if they did not shed his blood or had excuses to cover their fault.
#BCV:Genesis 37:28
<h3><verse=Genesis 37:28>Genesis 37:28</verse></h3>



Then there passed by Midianites merchantmen; and they drew and lifted up Joseph out of the pit,
and sold Joseph to the (i) Ishmeelites for twenty [pieces] of silver: and they brought Joseph into
Egypt.



(i) Moses writes according to the opinion of those who took the Midianites and Ishmaelites to be
one, and here mixes their names: as also appears in (<bcv=Gen 37:36>Gen 37:36</bcv>,<bcv=Gen 39:1> Gen 39:1</bcv>) or else he was first offered
to the Midianites, but sold to the Ishmaelites.
#BCV:Genesis 37:32
<h3><verse=Genesis 37:32>Genesis 37:32</verse></h3>



And they sent the coat of [many] colours, (k) and they brought [it] to their father; and said, This
have we found: know now whether it [be] thy son's coat or no.



(k) That is, the messengers who were sent.
#BCV:Genesis 37:36
<h3><verse=Genesis 37:36>Genesis 37:36</verse></h3>



And the Midianites sold him into Egypt unto Potiphar, an (l) officer of Pharaoh's, [and] captain of
the guard.



(l) Or "eunuch", which does not always signify a man that is gelded, but also someone that is in
some high position.

<h2>Genesis 38</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 38:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 38:1>Genesis 38:1</verse></h3>

<page=90>And it came to pass at that time, that (a) Judah went down from his brethren, and turned in to a
certain Adullamite, whose name [was] Hirah.



(a) Moses describes the genealogy of Judah, because the Messiah should come from him.
#BCV:Genesis 38:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 38:2>Genesis 38:2</verse></h3>



And Judah saw there a daughter of a certain Canaanite, whose name [was] Shuah; (b) and he took
her, and went in unto her.



(b) A relationship which nonetheless was condemned by God.
#BCV:Genesis 38:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 38:8>Genesis 38:8</verse></h3>



And Judah said unto Onan, Go in unto thy brother's wife, and marry her, and raise (c) up seed to thy
brother.



(c) This order was for the preservation of the stock, since the child begotten by the second brother
would have the name and inheritance of the first: a practice which is abolished in the New
Testament.
#BCV:Genesis 38:11
<h3><verse=Genesis 38:11>Genesis 38:11</verse></h3>



Then said Judah to Tamar his daughter in law, (d) Remain a widow at thy father's house, till Shelah
my son be grown: for he said, Lest peradventure he die also, as his brethren [did]. And Tamar went
and dwelt in her father's house.



(d) For she could not marry in any other family so long as Judah would retain her in his.
#BCV:Genesis 38:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 38:16>Genesis 38:16</verse></h3>



And he turned unto her by the way, and said, Go to, I pray thee, let me come in unto thee; (for he (e)
knew not that she [was] his daughter in law.) And she said, What wilt thou give me, that thou mayest
come in unto me?



(e) God miraculously blinded him so that he could not know her by her voice.
#BCV:Genesis 38:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 38:20>Genesis 38:20</verse></h3>

<page=91>And Judah sent the kid by the hand of his (f) friend the Adullamite, to receive [his] pledge from the
woman's hand: but he found her not.



(f) That his wickedness might not be known to others.
#BCV:Genesis 38:23
<h3><verse=Genesis 38:23>Genesis 38:23</verse></h3>



And Judah said, Let her take [it] to her, lest we be (g) shamed: behold, I sent this kid, and thou hast
not found her.



(g) He fears man more than God.
#BCV:Genesis 38:24
<h3><verse=Genesis 38:24>Genesis 38:24</verse></h3>



And it came to pass about three months after, that it was told Judah, saying, Tamar thy daughter in
law hath played the harlot; and also, behold, she [is] with child by whoredom. And Judah said, Bring
her forth, and let her be (h) burnt.



(h) We see that the Law, which was written in man's heart, taught them that adultery should be
punished with death, even though no law had been given yet.
#BCV:Genesis 38:26
<h3><verse=Genesis 38:26>Genesis 38:26</verse></h3>



And Judah acknowledged [them], and said, She hath been (i) more righteous than I; because that I
gave her not to Shelah my son. And he knew her again (k) no more.



(i) That is, she ought rather to accuse me than I her.



(k) for the horror of the sin condemned him.
#BCV:Genesis 38:29
<h3><verse=Genesis 38:29>Genesis 38:29</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, as he (l) drew back his hand, that, behold, his brother came out: and she said,
How (m) hast thou broken forth? [this] breach [be] upon thee: therefore his name was called Pharez.



(l) Their heinous sin was signified by this monstrous birth.



(m) Or the separation between you and your brother.

<h2>Genesis 39</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 39:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 39:1>Genesis 39:1</verse></h3>

<page=92>And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an (a) officer of Pharaoh, captain of the
guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hands of the Ishmeelites, which had brought him down
thither.



(a) See (<bcv=Gen 37:36>Gen 37:36</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 39:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 39:2>Genesis 39:2</verse></h3>



And the (b) LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his
master the Egyptian.



(b) The favour of God is the fountain of all prosperity.
#BCV:Genesis 39:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 39:4>Genesis 39:4</verse></h3>



And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him (c) overseer over his
house, and all [that] he had he put into his hand.



(c) Because God prospered him: and so he made religion serve his profit.
#BCV:Genesis 39:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 39:5>Genesis 39:5</verse></h3>



And it came to pass from the time [that] he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he
had, that the LORD (d) blessed the Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; and the blessing of the
LORD was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field.



(d) The wicked are blessed by the company of the godly.
#BCV:Genesis 39:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 39:6>Genesis 39:6</verse></h3>



And he left all that he had in Joseph's hand; (e) and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which
he did eat. And Joseph was [a] goodly [person], and well favoured.



(e) For he was sure that everything would prosper: therefore he ate and drank and did not worry.
#BCV:Genesis 39:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 39:7>Genesis 39:7</verse></h3>



And it came to pass after these things, that his master's wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said,
(f) Lie with me.

<page=93>(f) In this word he declares the purpose she was working towards.
#BCV:Genesis 39:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 39:9>Genesis 39:9</verse></h3>



[There is] none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee,
because thou [art] his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against (g) God?



(g) The fear of God preserved him against her continual temptations.
#BCV:Genesis 39:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 39:14>Genesis 39:14</verse></h3>



That she called unto the men of her house, and spake unto them, saying, See, he hath brought in an
Hebrew unto us to mock us; he came in unto me to lie with me, and I (h) cried with a loud voice:



(h) This declares that in which lack of restraint exists and to this is joined extreme impudency and
deceit.
#BCV:Genesis 39:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 39:20>Genesis 39:20</verse></h3>



And Joseph's master took him, and put him into the (i) prison, a place where the king's prisoners
[were] bound: and he was there in the prison.



(i) His bad treatment in the prison may be gathered from (<bcv=Psa 105:18>Psa 105:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 39:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 39:22>Genesis 39:22</verse></h3>



And the keeper of the prison committed to Joseph's hand all the prisoners that [were] in the prison;
and (k) whatsoever they did there, he was the doer [of it].



(k) That is, nothing was done without his commandment.

<h2>Genesis 40</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 40:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 40:3>Genesis 40:3</verse></h3>

<page=94>And he put them in ward in the house of the captain of the guard, into the prison, the place where
(a) Joseph [was] bound.

(a) God works in many wonderful ways to deliver his own.

#BCV:Genesis 40:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 40:5>Genesis 40:5</verse></h3>

And they dreamed a dream both of them, each man his dream in one night, (b) each man according
to the interpretation of his dream, the butler and the baker of the king of Egypt, which [were]
bound in the prison.

(b) That is, every dream had his interpretation, as the thing afterward declared.

#BCV:Genesis 40:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 40:8>Genesis 40:8</verse></h3>

And they said unto him, We have dreamed a dream, and [there is] no interpreter of it. And Joseph
said unto them, (c) [Do] not interpretations [belong] to God? tell me [them], I pray you.

(c) Cannot God raise up such as shall interpret such things.

#BCV:Genesis 40:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 40:12>Genesis 40:12</verse></h3>

And Joseph said unto him, This (d) [is] the interpretation of it: The three branches [are] three days:

(d) He was reassured by the spirit of God, that his interpretation was true.

#BCV:Genesis 40:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 40:14>Genesis 40:14</verse></h3>

But think on me when it shall be well with thee, and shew kindness, I pray thee, unto me, and (e)
make mention of me unto Pharaoh, and bring me out of this house:

(e) He does not refuse the method of deliverance which he thought God had appointed.

#BCV:Genesis 40:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 40:16>Genesis 40:16</verse></h3>

When the chief baker saw that the interpretation was good, he said unto Joseph, I also [was] in my
dream, and, behold, [I had] three (f) white baskets on my head:

(f) That is made of white twigs, or as some read, baskets full of holes.

#BCV:Genesis 40:18
<h3><verse=Genesis 40:18>Genesis 40:18</verse></h3>

<page=95>And Joseph answered and said, (g) This [is] the interpretation thereof: The three baskets [are] three
days:

(g) He shows that the ministers of God should not conceal that, which God reveals to them.

#BCV:Genesis 40:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 40:20>Genesis 40:20</verse></h3>

And it came to pass the third day, [which was] Pharaoh's (h) birthday, that he made a feast unto all
his servants: and he lifted up the head of the chief butler and of the chief baker among his servants.

(h) Which was an occasion to appoint his officers, and to examine those who were in prison.

<h2>Genesis 41</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 41:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 41:1>Genesis 41:1</verse></h3>

<page=96>And it came to pass at the end of two full years, that Pharaoh (a) dreamed: and, behold, he stood by
the river.



(a) This dream was not so much for Pharaoh, as is was a means to deliver Joseph and to provide for
God's Church.
#BCV:Genesis 41:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 41:5>Genesis 41:5</verse></h3>



And he slept and dreamed the (b) second time: and, behold, seven ears of corn came up upon one
stalk, rank and good.



(b) All these means God used to deliver his servant, and to bring him into favour and authority.
#BCV:Genesis 41:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 41:8>Genesis 41:8</verse></h3>



And it came to pass in the morning that his spirit was (c) troubled; and he sent and called for all the
magicians of Egypt, and all the wise men thereof: and Pharaoh told them his dream; but [there was]
none that could interpret them unto Pharaoh.



(c) This fear was enough to teach him that this vision was sent by God.
#BCV:Genesis 41:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 41:9>Genesis 41:9</verse></h3>



Then spake the chief butler unto Pharaoh, saying, I (e) do remember my faults this day:



(e) He confesses his fault against the king before he speaks of Joseph.
#BCV:Genesis 41:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 41:14>Genesis 41:14</verse></h3>



Then Pharaoh sent and called (f) Joseph, and they brought him hastily out of the dungeon: and he
shaved [himself], and changed his raiment, and came in unto Pharaoh.



(f) The wicked seek the prophets of God in their time of need, while in their prosperity they abhor
them.
#BCV:Genesis 41:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 41:16>Genesis 41:16</verse></h3>



And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, (g) [It is] not in me: God shall give Pharaoh an answer of
peace.

<page=97>(g) As though he would say if I interpret your dream it comes from God, and not from me.
#BCV:Genesis 41:25
<h3><verse=Genesis 41:25>Genesis 41:25</verse></h3>



And Joseph said unto Pharaoh, (h) The dream of Pharaoh [is] one: God hath shewed Pharaoh what
he [is] about to do.



(h) Both his dreams have the same message.
#BCV:Genesis 41:33
<h3><verse=Genesis 41:33>Genesis 41:33</verse></h3>



Now therefore let Pharaoh (i) look out a man discreet and wise, and set him over the land of Egypt.



(i) The office of a true prophet is not only to show the evils to come, but also the remedies for the
same.
#BCV:Genesis 41:38
<h3><verse=Genesis 41:38>Genesis 41:38</verse></h3>



And Pharaoh said unto his servants, Can we find [such a one] as this [is], a man in whom the (k)
Spirit of God [is]?



(k) No one should be honoured who does not have gifts from God fitting for the same.
#BCV:Genesis 41:40
<h3><verse=Genesis 41:40>Genesis 41:40</verse></h3>



Thou shalt be over my house, and according unto thy (l) word shall all my people be ruled: only in
the throne will I be greater than thou.



(l) Some read, "the people will kill your mouth", that is obey you in all things.
#BCV:Genesis 41:43
<h3><verse=Genesis 41:43>Genesis 41:43</verse></h3>



And he made him to ride in the second chariot which he had; and they cried before him, (m) Bow
the knee: and he made him [ruler] over all the land of Egypt.



(b) Or "Abrech": a sign of honour; a word some translate, tender father or father of the king, or
kneel down.
#BCV:Genesis 41:46
<h3><verse=Genesis 41:46>Genesis 41:46</verse></h3>



And Joseph [was] (n) thirty years old when he stood before Pharaoh king of Egypt. And Joseph
went out from the presence of Pharaoh, and went throughout all the land of Egypt.

<page=98>(n) His age is mentioned both to show that his authority came from God, and also that he endured
imprisonment and exile for twelve years or more.
#BCV:Genesis 41:51
<h3><verse=Genesis 41:51>Genesis 41:51</verse></h3>



And Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh: For God, [said he], hath made me forget all
my toil, and all my (o) father's house.



(o) Nonetheless, his father's house was the true Church of God: yet the company of the wicked and
prosperity caused him to forget it.

<h2>Genesis 42</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 42:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 42:1>Genesis 42:1</verse></h3>

<page=99>Now when (a) Jacob saw that there was corn in Egypt, Jacob said unto his sons, Why do ye (b) look
one upon another?



(a) This story shows plainly that all things are governed by God's providence for the profit of his
Church.



(b) As men destitute of counsel.
#BCV:Genesis 42:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 42:7>Genesis 42:7</verse></h3>



And Joseph saw his brethren, and he knew them, but (c) made himself strange unto them, and spake
roughly unto them; and he said unto them, Whence come ye? And they said, From the land of
Canaan to buy food.



(c) This concealing is not to be followed, nor any actions of the father's not approved by God's
word.
#BCV:Genesis 42:15
<h3><verse=Genesis 42:15>Genesis 42:15</verse></h3>



Hereby ye shall be proved: (d) By the life of Pharaoh ye shall not go forth hence, except your
youngest brother come hither.



(d) The Egyptians who were idolaters, used to swear by their king's life: but God forbids swearing by
anyone but him: yet Joseph dwelling among the wicked was corrupted by them.
#BCV:Genesis 42:18
<h3><verse=Genesis 42:18>Genesis 42:18</verse></h3>



And Joseph said unto them the third day, This do, and live; [for] I (e) fear God:



(e) And therefore am true and just.
#BCV:Genesis 42:21
<h3><verse=Genesis 42:21>Genesis 42:21</verse></h3>



And they said one to another, (f) We [are] verily guilty concerning our brother, in that we saw the
anguish of his soul, when he besought us, and we would not hear; therefore is this distress come
upon us.



(f) Affliction makes men acknowledge their faults, which otherwise they would conceal.
#BCV:Genesis 42:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 42:22>Genesis 42:22</verse></h3>

#BCV:gen 42:22
<h3><verse=gen 42:22>gen 42:22</verse></h3>



ye would not hear? therefore, behold, also his (g) blood is required.



(g) God will take vengeance on us, and measure us with our own measure.
#BCV:Genesis 42:24
<h3><verse=Genesis 42:24>Genesis 42:24</verse></h3>



And he turned himself about from them, and (h) wept; and returned to them again, and communed
with them, and took from them Simeon, and bound him before their eyes.



(h) Though he acts harshly, yet his brotherly affection remained.
#BCV:Genesis 42:28
<h3><verse=Genesis 42:28>Genesis 42:28</verse></h3>



And he said unto his brethren, My money is restored; and, lo, [it is] even in my sack: and their heart
failed [them], and they were (i) afraid, saying one to another, What [is] this [that] God hath done
unto us?



(i) Because their conscience accused them of their sin, they thought God had brought them trouble
through the money.
#BCV:Genesis 42:36
<h3><verse=Genesis 42:36>Genesis 42:36</verse></h3>



And Jacob their father said unto them, Me have ye bereaved [of my children]: Joseph [is] not, and
Simeon [is] not, and ye will take Benjamin [away]: all these things are against (k) me.



(k) For they did not seem to be concerned or have any love for their brother which increased his
sorrow: and partly as it appears he suspected them for Joseph.

<h2>Genesis 43</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 43:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 43:1>Genesis 43:1</verse></h3>

<page=101>And the (a) famine [was] sore in the land.

(a) This was a great temptation to Jacob to suffer such a great famine in the land where God had
promised to bless him.
#BCV:Genesis 43:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 43:12>Genesis 43:12</verse></h3>



And take (b) double money in your hand; and the money that was brought again in the mouth of
your sacks, carry [it] again in your hand; peradventure it [was] an oversight:



(b) When we are in need or danger, God does not forbid us to use honest means to better our estate
and condition.
#BCV:Genesis 43:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 43:14>Genesis 43:14</verse></h3>



And (c) God Almighty give you mercy before the man, that he may send away your other brother,
and Benjamin. If I be (d) bereaved [of my children], I am bereaved.



(c) Our main trust should be in God, not in worldly means.



(d) He speaks these words not so much in despair, but to make his sons more careful to return with
their brother.
#BCV:Genesis 43:18
<h3><verse=Genesis 43:18>Genesis 43:18</verse></h3>



And the men were (e) afraid, because they were brought into Joseph's house; and they said, Because
of the money that was returned in our sacks at the first time are we brought in; that he may seek
occasion against us, and fall upon us, and take us for bondmen, and our asses.



(e) So the judgment of God weighed on their consciences.
#BCV:Genesis 43:23
<h3><verse=Genesis 43:23>Genesis 43:23</verse></h3>



And he said, Peace [be] to you, fear not: (f) your God, and the God of your father, hath given you
treasure in your sacks: I had your money. And he brought Simeon out unto them.



(f) Despite the corruption of Egypt, Joseph taught his family to fear God.
#BCV:Genesis 43:29
<h3><verse=Genesis 43:29>Genesis 43:29</verse></h3>

<page=102>And he lifted up his eyes, and saw his brother Benjamin, his (g) mother's son, and said, [Is] this your
younger brother, of whom ye spake unto me? And he said, God be gracious unto thee, my son.



(g) For only these two were born of Rachel.
#BCV:Genesis 43:32
<h3><verse=Genesis 43:32>Genesis 43:32</verse></h3>



And they (h) set on for him by himself, and for them by themselves, and for the Egyptians, which
did eat with him, by themselves: because the Egyptians might not eat bread with the Hebrews; for
that [is] an (i) abomination unto the Egyptians.



(h) To signify his dignity.



(i) The nature of the superstitions is to condemn all others in respect to themselves.
#BCV:Genesis 43:34
<h3><verse=Genesis 43:34>Genesis 43:34</verse></h3>



And he took [and sent] messes unto them from before him: but Benjamin's mess was five times so
much as any of theirs. And they drank, (k) and were merry with him.



(k) Sometimes this word means "to be drunken", but here it means that they had enough, and drank
of the best wine.

<h2>Genesis 44</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 44:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 44:2>Genesis 44:2</verse></h3>

<page=103>And (a) put my cup, the silver cup, in the sack's mouth of the youngest, and his corn money. And he
did according to the word that Joseph had spoken.



(a) We may not use this example to justify any unlawful practices, seeing God has commanded us to
walk in simplicity.
#BCV:Genesis 44:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 44:5>Genesis 44:5</verse></h3>



[Is] not this [it] in which my lord drinketh, and (b) whereby indeed he divineth? ye have done evil in
so doing.



(b) Because the people thought he could divine, he attributes to himself that knowledge: or else he
pretends that he consults with soothsayers: which deceit is worthy to be reproved.
#BCV:Genesis 44:13
<h3><verse=Genesis 44:13>Genesis 44:13</verse></h3>



Then they (c) rent their clothes, and laded every man his ass, and returned to the city.



(c) To show how greatly the thing displeased them and how sorry they were for it.
#BCV:Genesis 44:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 44:16>Genesis 44:16</verse></h3>



And Judah said, What shall we say unto my lord? what shall we speak? or how shall we clear
ourselves? (d) God hath found out the iniquity of thy servants: behold, we [are] my lord's servants,
both we, and [he] also with whom the cup is found.



(d) If we see no obvious cause for our affliction, let us look to the secret counsel of God, who
punishes us justly for our sins.
#BCV:Genesis 44:18
<h3><verse=Genesis 44:18>Genesis 44:18</verse></h3>



Then Judah came near unto him, and said, Oh my lord, let thy servant, I pray thee, speak a word in
my lord's ears, and let not thine anger burn against thy servant: for thou [art] even (e) as Pharaoh.



(e) Equal in authority or, next to the king.
#BCV:Genesis 44:27
<h3><verse=Genesis 44:27>Genesis 44:27</verse></h3>



And thy servant my father said unto us, Ye know that my (f) wife bare me two [sons]:

<page=104>(f) Rachel bore to Jacob, Joseph and Benjamin.
#BCV:Genesis 44:29
<h3><verse=Genesis 44:29>Genesis 44:29</verse></h3>



And if ye take this also from me, and mischief befall him, (g) ye shall bring down my gray hairs with
sorrow to the grave.



(g) You will cause me to die for sorrow.
#BCV:Genesis 44:34
<h3><verse=Genesis 44:34>Genesis 44:34</verse></h3>



For (h) how shall I go up to my father, and the lad [be] not with me? lest peradventure I see the evil
that shall come on my father.



(h) Meaning, he would rather remain as their prisoner, than to return and see his father in sorrow.

<h2>Genesis 45</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 45:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 45:1>Genesis 45:1</verse></h3>

<page=105>Then Joseph could not refrain himself before all them that stood by him; and he cried, (a) Cause
every man to go out from me. And there stood no man with him, while Joseph made himself
known unto his brethren.



(a) Not because he was ashamed of his kindred, but rather because he wanted to cover his brother's
sin.
#BCV:Genesis 45:5
<h3><verse=Genesis 45:5>Genesis 45:5</verse></h3>



Now therefore be not (b) grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did
send me before you to preserve life.



(b) This example teaches that we must by all means comfort those who are truly ashamed and sorry
for their sins.
#BCV:Genesis 45:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 45:8>Genesis 45:8</verse></h3>



So now [it was] not you [that] sent me hither, but (c) God: and he hath made me a father to Pharaoh,
and lord of all his house, and a ruler throughout all the land of Egypt.



(c) Though God detests sin, yet he turns man's wickedness into his glory.
#BCV:Genesis 45:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 45:12>Genesis 45:12</verse></h3>



And, behold, your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin, that [it is] (d) my mouth that
speaketh unto you.



(d) That is, that I speak in your own language and have no interpreter.
#BCV:Genesis 45:18
<h3><verse=Genesis 45:18>Genesis 45:18</verse></h3>



And take your father and your households, and come unto me: and I will give you the (e) good of
the land of Egypt, and ye shall eat the (f) fat of the land.



(e) The most plentiful ground.



(f) The main fruits and conveniences.
#BCV:Genesis 45:24
<h3><verse=Genesis 45:24>Genesis 45:24</verse></h3>

<page=106>So he sent his brethren away, and they departed: and he said unto them, See that ye (g) fall not out
by the way.



(g) Seeing he had remitted the fault done to him, he did not want them to accuse one another.
#BCV:Genesis 45:26
<h3><verse=Genesis 45:26>Genesis 45:26</verse></h3>



And told him, saying, Joseph [is] yet alive, and he [is] governor over all the land of Egypt. And
Jacob's heart (h) fainted, for he believed them not.



(h) As one between hope and fear.

<h2>Genesis 46</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 46:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 46:1>Genesis 46:1</verse></h3>

<page=107>And Israel took his journey with all that he had, and came to Beersheba, and (a) offered sacrifices
unto the God of his father Isaac.



(a) By this he signified both that he worshipped the true God, and that he kept in his heart the
possession of that land from which need drove him at that time.
#BCV:Genesis 46:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 46:4>Genesis 46:4</verse></h3>



I will (b) go down with thee into Egypt; and I will also surely (c) bring thee up [again]: and Joseph
shall (d) put his hand upon thine eyes.



(b) Conducting you by my power.



(c) In your posterity.



(d) Shall shut your eyes when you die: which belongs to him that was most dear or chief of the
kindred.
#BCV:Genesis 46:32
<h3><verse=Genesis 46:32>Genesis 46:32</verse></h3>



And the men [are] (e) shepherds, for their trade hath been to feed cattle; and they have brought their
flocks, and their herds, and all that they have.



(e) He was not ashamed of his father and kindred, though they were of base condition.
#BCV:Genesis 46:34
<h3><verse=Genesis 46:34>Genesis 46:34</verse></h3>



That ye shall say, Thy servants' trade hath been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we,
[and] also our fathers: that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd [is] an (f)
abomination unto the Egyptians.



(f) God permits the world to hate his own, so they will forsake the filth of the world, and cling to
him.

<h2>Genesis 47</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 47:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 47:2>Genesis 47:2</verse></h3>

<page=108>And he took some of his brethren, [even] (a) five men, and presented them unto Pharaoh.

(a) That the king might be assured that they had come, and to see what type of people they were.
#BCV:Genesis 47:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 47:6>Genesis 47:6</verse></h3>



The (b) land of Egypt [is] before thee; in the best of the land make thy father and brethren to dwell;
in the land of Goshen let them dwell: and if thou knowest [any] men of activity among them, then
make them rulers over my cattle.



(b) Joseph's great modesty appears in that he would attempt nothing without the king's
commandment.
#BCV:Genesis 47:11
<h3><verse=Genesis 47:11>Genesis 47:11</verse></h3>



And Joseph placed his father and his brethren, and gave them a possession in the land of Egypt, in
the best of the land, in the land of (c) Rameses, as Pharaoh had commanded.



(c) Which was a city in the country of Goshen, (<bcv=Exo 1:11>Exo 1:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 47:12
<h3><verse=Genesis 47:12>Genesis 47:12</verse></h3>



And Joseph nourished his father, and his brethren, and all his father's household, with bread, (d)
according to [their] families.



(d) Some read that he fed them as little babies, because they could not provide for themselves
against that famine.
#BCV:Genesis 47:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 47:14>Genesis 47:14</verse></h3>



And Joseph gathered up all the money that was found in the land of Egypt, and in the land of
Canaan, for the corn which they bought: and (e) Joseph brought the money into Pharaoh's house.



(e) In which he both declares his faithfulness to the king, and his freedom from covetousness.
#BCV:Genesis 47:19
<h3><verse=Genesis 47:19>Genesis 47:19</verse></h3>

<page=109>Wherefore shall we die before thine eyes, both we and our (f) land? buy us and our land for bread,
and we and our land will be servants unto Pharaoh: and give [us] seed, that we may live, and not die,
that the land be not desolate.



(f) For unless the ground is tilled and sown, it perishes and is as if it was dead.
#BCV:Genesis 47:21
<h3><verse=Genesis 47:21>Genesis 47:21</verse></h3>



And as for the people, he (g) removed them to cities from [one] end of the borders of Egypt even
to the [other] end thereof.



(g) By this changing they signified that they had nothing of their own, but received everything from
the king's generosity.
#BCV:Genesis 47:26
<h3><verse=Genesis 47:26>Genesis 47:26</verse></h3>



And Joseph made it a law over the land of Egypt unto this day, [that] Pharaoh should have the fifth
[part]; (h) except the land of the priests only, [which] became not Pharaoh's.



(h) Pharaoh, in providing for idolatrous priests, will be a condemnation to all those who neglect the
true ministers of God's word.
#BCV:Genesis 47:30
<h3><verse=Genesis 47:30>Genesis 47:30</verse></h3>



But I will (i) lie with my fathers, and thou shalt carry me out of Egypt, and bury me in their
buryingplace. And he said, I will do as thou hast said.



(i) By this he demonstrated that he died in the faith of his fathers, teaching his children to hope for
the promised land.
#BCV:Genesis 47:31
<h3><verse=Genesis 47:31>Genesis 47:31</verse></h3>



And he said, Swear unto me. And he sware unto him. And Israel (k) bowed himself upon the bed's
head.



(k) He rejoiced that Joseph had promised him, and setting himself up on his pillows, praised God;


(<bcv=1Ch 29:10>Ch1 29:10</bcv>).

<h2>Genesis 48</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 48:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 48:1>Genesis 48:1</verse></h3>

<page=110>And it came to pass after these things, that [one] told Joseph, Behold, thy father [is] sick: and he
took with him his (a) two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim.



(a) Joseph valued his children being received into Jacob's family, which was the Church of God,
more than enjoying all the treasures of Egypt.
#BCV:Genesis 48:4
<h3><verse=Genesis 48:4>Genesis 48:4</verse></h3>



And said unto me, Behold, I will make thee fruitful, and multiply thee, and I will make of thee a
multitude of people; and will give this land to thy seed after thee [for] an (b) everlasting possession.



(b) Which is true in the carnal Israel until the coming of Christ, and in the spiritual forever.
#BCV:Genesis 48:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 48:9>Genesis 48:9</verse></h3>



And Joseph said unto his father, They [are] my sons, whom (c) God hath given me in this [place].
And he said, Bring them, I pray thee, unto me, and I will bless them.



(c) The faithful acknowledge all benefits come from God's free mercy.
#BCV:Genesis 48:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 48:14>Genesis 48:14</verse></h3>



And Israel stretched out his right hand, and laid [it] upon (d) Ephraim's head, who [was] the younger,
and his left hand upon Manasseh's head, guiding his hands wittingly; for Manasseh [was] the
firstborn.



(d) God's judgments are often contrary to man's and he prefers what man despises.
#BCV:Genesis 48:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 48:16>Genesis 48:16</verse></h3>



The (e) Angel which redeemed me from all evil, bless the lads; and let my (f) name be named on
them, and the name of my fathers Abraham and Isaac; and let them grow into a multitude in the
midst of the earth.



(e) This angel must be understood to be Christ, as in (<bcv=Gen 31:13>Gen 31:13</bcv>,<bcv=Gen 32:1> Gen 32:1</bcv>).



(f) Let them be taken as my children.
#BCV:Genesis 48:17
<h3><verse=Genesis 48:17>Genesis 48:17</verse></h3>

<page=111>And when Joseph saw that his father laid his right hand upon the head of Ephraim, it (g) displeased
him: and he held up his father's hand, to remove it from Ephraim's head unto Manasseh's head.



(g) Joseph fails by binding God's grace to the order of nature.
#BCV:Genesis 48:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 48:20>Genesis 48:20</verse></h3>



And he blessed them that day, saying, In thee shall Israel bless, saying, God make thee as (h)
Ephraim and as Manasseh: and he set Ephraim before Manasseh.



(h) In whom God's graces should manifestly appear.
#BCV:Genesis 48:21
<h3><verse=Genesis 48:21>Genesis 48:21</verse></h3>



And Israel said unto Joseph, Behold, I die: but God shall be with you, and bring you again unto the
land of (i) your fathers.



(i) Which they had by faith in the promise.
#BCV:Genesis 48:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 48:22>Genesis 48:22</verse></h3>



Moreover I have given to thee one portion above thy brethren, which (k) I took out of the hand of
the Amorite with my sword and with my bow.



(k) By my children whom God spared for my sake.

<h2>Genesis 49</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 49:1
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:1>Genesis 49:1</verse></h3>

<page=112>And Jacob called unto his sons, and said, Gather yourselves together, that I may tell you [that] which
shall befall you
in the (a) last days.



(a) When God will bring you out of Egypt, and because he speaks of the Messiah, he calls it the last
days.
#BCV:Genesis 49:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:3>Genesis 49:3</verse></h3>



Reuben, thou [art] my firstborn, my (b) might, and the beginning of my strength, (c) the excellency
of dignity, and the excellency of power:



(b) Begotten in my youth.



(c) If you have not left your birthright by your offence.
#BCV:Genesis 49:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:6>Genesis 49:6</verse></h3>



O my soul, come not thou into their (d) secret; unto their assembly, mine honour, be not thou
united: for in their anger they slew a (e) man, and in their selfwill they digged down a wall.



(d) Or, tongue: meaning that he neither consented to them in word or thought.



(e) The Shechemites (<bcv=Gen 34:26>Gen 34:26</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 49:7
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:7>Genesis 49:7</verse></h3>



Cursed [be] their anger, for [it was] fierce; and their wrath, for it was cruel: I will (f) divide them in
Jacob, and scatter them in Israel.



(f) For Levi had no part, and Simeon was under Judah, (<bcv=Jos 19:1>Jos 19:1</bcv>) till God gave them the place of the
Amalekites, (<bcv=1Ch 4:32>Ch1 4:43</bcv>).
#BCV:Genesis 49:8
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:8>Genesis 49:8</verse></h3>



Judah, thou [art he] whom thy brethren shall praise: thy hand [shall be] in the neck of thine enemies;
thy father's children shall (g) bow down before thee.



(g) As was verified in David and Christ.
#BCV:Genesis 49:9
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:9>Genesis 49:9</verse></h3>

<page=113>Judah [is] a lion's whelp: from the prey, my son, thou art gone up: he stooped down, he couched as a
lion, and as an old lion; (h) who shall rouse him up?



(h) His enemies will so fear him.
#BCV:Genesis 49:10
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:10>Genesis 49:10</verse></h3>



The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until (i) Shiloh come;
and unto him [shall] the gathering of the people [be].



(i) Which is Christ the Messiah, the giver of prosperity who will call the Gentiles to salvation.
#BCV:Genesis 49:11
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:11>Genesis 49:11</verse></h3>



Binding his foal unto the (k) vine, and his ass's colt unto the choice vine; he washed his garments in
wine, and his clothes in the blood of grapes:



(k) A country most abundant with vines and pastures is promised to him.
#BCV:Genesis 49:14
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:14>Genesis 49:14</verse></h3>



Issachar [is] (l) a strong ass couching down between two burdens:



(l) His force will be great, but he will lack courage to resist his enemies.
#BCV:Genesis 49:16
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:16>Genesis 49:16</verse></h3>



Dan (m) shall judge his people, as one of the tribes of Israel.



(m) Shall have the honour of a tribe.
#BCV:Genesis 49:18
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:18>Genesis 49:18</verse></h3>




(o) I have waited for thy salvation, O LORD.



(o) Seeing the miseries that his posterity would fall into, he bursts out in prayer to God to remedy it.
#BCV:Genesis 49:20
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:20>Genesis 49:20</verse></h3>



Out of Asher his (p) bread [shall be] fat, and he shall yield royal dainties.



(p) He will abound in corn and pleasant fruits.
#BCV:Genesis 49:21
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:21>Genesis 49:21</verse></h3>

<page=114>Naphtali [is] a hind let loose: he giveth (q) goodly words.

(q) Overcoming more by fair words than by force.
#BCV:Genesis 49:23
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:23>Genesis 49:23</verse></h3>




(r) The archers have sorely grieved him, and shot [at him], and hated him:



(r) As his brethren when they were his enemies, Potiphar and others.
#BCV:Genesis 49:24
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:24>Genesis 49:24</verse></h3>



But his bow abode in strength, and the arms of his hands were made strong by the hands of the
mighty [God] of Jacob; (from thence [is] the shepherd, the (s) stone of Israel:)



(s) That is God.
#BCV:Genesis 49:26
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:26>Genesis 49:26</verse></h3>



The blessings of thy father have (t) prevailed above the blessings of my progenitors unto the utmost
bound of the everlasting hills: they shall be on the head of Joseph, and on the crown of the head of
him that was (u) separate from his brethren.



(t) In as much as he was closer to the accomplishment of the promise and it had been more often
confirmed.



(u) Either in dignity, or when he was sold from his brethren.
#BCV:Genesis 49:33
<h3><verse=Genesis 49:33>Genesis 49:33</verse></h3>



And when Jacob had made an end of commanding his sons, he (x) gathered up his feet into the bed,
and yielded up the ghost, and was gathered unto his people.



(x) By which is signified how quietly he died.

<h2>Genesis 50</h2>

#BCV:Genesis 50:2
<h3><verse=Genesis 50:2>Genesis 50:2</verse></h3>

<page=115>And Joseph commanded his servants the (a) physicians to embalm his father: and the physicians
embalmed Israel.



(a) He means those who embalmed the dead and buried them.
#BCV:Genesis 50:3
<h3><verse=Genesis 50:3>Genesis 50:3</verse></h3>



And forty days were fulfilled for him; for so are fulfilled the days of those which are embalmed: and
the Egyptians mourned for him (b) threescore and ten days.



(b) They were more excessive in lamenting than the faithful.
#BCV:Genesis 50:6
<h3><verse=Genesis 50:6>Genesis 50:6</verse></h3>



And Pharaoh said, Go up, and bury thy father, according (c) as he made thee swear.



(c) Even the infidels would have oaths carried out.
#BCV:Genesis 50:15
<h3><verse=Genesis 50:15>Genesis 50:15</verse></h3>



And when Joseph's brethren saw that their father was dead, they said, (d) Joseph will peradventure
hate us, and will certainly requite us all the evil which we did unto him.



(d) An evil conscience is never fully at rest.
#BCV:Genesis 50:17
<h3><verse=Genesis 50:17>Genesis 50:17</verse></h3>



So shall ye say unto Joseph, Forgive, I pray thee now, the trespass of thy brethren, and their sin; for
they did unto thee evil: and now, we pray thee, forgive the trespass of the servants of the (e) God of
thy father. And Joseph wept when they spake unto him.



(e) Meaning, that they who have one God should be joined in most sure love.
#BCV:Genesis 50:19
<h3><verse=Genesis 50:19>Genesis 50:19</verse></h3>



And Joseph said unto them, Fear not: for [am] I in the place of (s) God?



(s) Who by the good success seems to remit it, and therefore it should not be revenged by me.
#BCV:Genesis 50:22
<h3><verse=Genesis 50:22>Genesis 50:22</verse></h3>

#BCV:gen 50:22
<h3><verse=gen 50:22>gen 50:22</verse></h3>




(g) Who, even though he ruled in Egypt about eighty years, yet was joined with the church of God
in faith and religion.
#BCV:Genesis 50:25
<h3><verse=Genesis 50:25>Genesis 50:25</verse></h3>



And Joseph took an oath of the children of Israel, saying, (h) God will surely visit you, and ye shall
carry up my bones from hence.



(h) He speaks this by the spirit of prophecy, exhorting his brethren to have full trust in God's
promise for their deliverance.

<h1>Exodus</h1>


<h2>Exodus 1</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 1:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 1:1>Exodus 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=117>Now (a)these [are] the names of the children of Israel, which came into Egypt; every man and his
household came with Jacob.



The Argument - After Jacob by God's commandment in (<bcv=Gen 46:3>Gen 46:3</bcv>) had brought his family into
Egypt, where they remained for four hundred years, and from seventy people grew to an infinite
number so that the king and the country endeavoured both by tyranny and cruel slavery to suppress
them: the Lord according to his promise in (<bcv=Gen 15:14>Gen 15:14</bcv>) had compassion on his Church, and
delivered them, but plagued their enemies in most strange and varied ways. The more the tyranny of
the wicked raged against his Church, the more his heavy judgments increased against them, till
Pharaoh and his army were drowned in the sea, which gave an entry and passage to the children of
God. As the ingratitude of man is great, so they immediately forgot God's wonderful benefits and
although he had given them the Passover as a sign and memorial of the same, yet they fell to distrust,
and tempted God with various complaining and grudging against him and his ministers: sometimes
out of ambition, sometimes lack of drink or meat to satisfy their lusts, sometimes idolatry, or such
like. For this reason, God punished them with severe rods and plagues, that by his correction they
might turn to him for help against his scourges, and earnestly repent for their rebellion and
wickedness. Because God loves them to the end, whom he has once begun to love, he punished
them not as they deserved, but dealt with them mercifully, and with new benefits laboured to
overcome their malice: for he still governed them and gave them his word and Law, both concerning
the way to serve him, and also the form of judgments and civil policy: with the intent that they
would not serve God after as they pleased, but according to the order, that his heavenly wisdom had
appointed.



(a) Moses describes the wonderful order that God observes in performing his promise to Abraham;



(<bcv=Gen 15:14>Gen 15:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 1:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 1:7>Exodus 1:7</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel were fruitful, and increased abundantly, and multiplied, and waxed
exceeding mighty; and the (b) land was filled with them.



(b) He means the country of Goshen.
#BCV:Exodus 1:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 1:8>Exodus 1:8</verse></h3>

<page=118>Now there arose up a new king over Egypt, which (c) knew not Joseph.



(c) He did not consider how God had preserved Egypt for the sake of Joseph.
#BCV:Exodus 1:10
<h3><verse=Exodus 1:10>Exodus 1:10</verse></h3>



Come on, let us deal wisely with them; lest they multiply, and it come to pass, that, when there
falleth out any war, they join also unto our enemies, and fight against us, and [so] (d) get them up out
of the land.



(d) Into Canaan, and so we shall lose our conveniences.
#BCV:Exodus 1:12
<h3><verse=Exodus 1:12>Exodus 1:12</verse></h3>



But the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and grew. And (e) they were grieved
because of the children of Israel.



(e) The more God blesses his own, the more the wicked envy them.
#BCV:Exodus 1:15
<h3><verse=Exodus 1:15>Exodus 1:15</verse></h3>



And the king of Egypt spake to the Hebrew midwives, of which the name of the one [was] (f)
Shiphrah, and the name of the other Puah:



(f) These seem to have been the main of the rest.
#BCV:Exodus 1:19
<h3><verse=Exodus 1:19>Exodus 1:19</verse></h3>



And the midwives said unto Pharaoh, Because the Hebrew (g) women [are] not as the Egyptian
women; for they [are] lively, and are delivered ere the midwives come in unto them.



(g) Their disobedience in this was lawful, but their deception is evil.
#BCV:Exodus 1:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 1:21>Exodus 1:21</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, because the midwives feared God, that he (h) made them houses.



(h) That is, God increased the families of the Israelites by their means.
#BCV:Exodus 1:22
<h3><verse=Exodus 1:22>Exodus 1:22</verse></h3>



And Pharaoh charged all his people, saying, Every son that is born ye shall (i) cast into the river, and
every daughter ye shall save alive.



(i) When tyrants cannot prevail by deceit, they burst into open rage.

<h2>Exodus 2</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 2:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 2:1>Exodus 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=119>And there went a (a) man of the house of Levi, and took [to wife] a daughter of Levi.



(a) This Levite was called Amram, who married Jochebed in (<bcv=Exo 6:20>Exo 6:20</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 2:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 2:3>Exodus 2:3</verse></h3>



And when she could not longer hide him, she took for him an ark of bulrushes, and daubed it with
slime and with pitch, and (b) put the child therein; and she laid [it] in the flags by the river's brink.



(b) Committing him to the providence of God, whom she could not keep from the rage of the
tyrant.
#BCV:Exodus 2:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 2:8>Exodus 2:8</verse></h3>



And Pharaoh's daughter said to her, Go. And the maid went and called the (c) child's mother.



(c) Man's counsel cannot hinder that which God has determined shall come to pass.
#BCV:Exodus 2:11
<h3><verse=Exodus 2:11>Exodus 2:11</verse></h3>



And it came to pass in those days, when Moses was (d) grown, that he went out unto his brethren,
and looked on their burdens: and he spied an Egyptian smiting an Hebrew, one of his brethren.



(d) That is, was forty years old; (<bcv=Acts 7:23>Act 7:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 2:12
<h3><verse=Exodus 2:12>Exodus 2:12</verse></h3>



And he looked this way and that way, and when he saw that [there was] no man, he (e) slew the
Egyptian, and hid him in the sand.



(e) Being assured that God had appointed him to deliver the Israelites; (<bcv=Acts 7:25>Act 7:25</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 2:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 2:14>Exodus 2:14</verse></h3>



And he said, Who made thee a prince and a judge over us? intendest thou to kill me, as thou killedst
the Egyptian? And Moses (f) feared, and said, Surely this thing is known.



(f) Though by his fear he showed his weakness, yet faith covered it; (<bcv=Heb 11:27>Heb 11:27</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 2:20
<h3><verse=Exodus 2:20>Exodus 2:20</verse></h3>

#BCV:exo 2:20
<h3><verse=exo 2:20>exo 2:20</verse></h3>



that he may eat bread.



(g) In which he demonstrated a thankful mind, which would reward the good done to his.
#BCV:Exodus 2:23
<h3><verse=Exodus 2:23>Exodus 2:23</verse></h3>



And it came to pass in process of time, that the king of Egypt died: and the children of Israel
sighed by reason of the bondage, and they (h) cried, and their cry came up unto God by reason of
the bondage.



(h) God humbles his by afflictions, that they should cry to him, and receive the fruit of his promise.
#BCV:Exodus 2:25
<h3><verse=Exodus 2:25>Exodus 2:25</verse></h3>



And God looked upon the children of Israel, and God had (i) respect unto [them].



(i) He judges their causes or acknowledged them as his own.

<h2>Exodus 3</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 3:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 3:1>Exodus 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=121>Now Moses kept the flock of Jethro his father in law, the priest of Midian: and he led the flock to
the backside of the desert, and came to the (a) mountain of God, [even] to (b) Horeb.



(a) It was so called after the law was given.



(b) Called also Sinai.
#BCV:Exodus 3:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 3:2>Exodus 3:2</verse></h3>



And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a (c) bush:
and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush [was] not consumed.



(c) This shows that the Church is not consumed by the fires of affliction, because God is in the
midst of it.
#BCV:Exodus 3:4
<h3><verse=Exodus 3:4>Exodus 3:4</verse></h3>



And when the (d) LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of
the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here [am] I.



(d) Whom he calls the angel in (<bcv=Exo 3:2>Exo 3:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 3:5
<h3><verse=Exodus 3:5>Exodus 3:5</verse></h3>



And he said, Draw not nigh hither: (e) put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon
thou standest [is] (f) holy ground.



(e) Resign yourself to me; (<bcv=Ruth 4:7>Rut 4:7</bcv>;<bcv=Jos 5:15> Jos 5:15</bcv>).



(f) Because of my presence.
#BCV:Exodus 3:6
<h3><verse=Exodus 3:6>Exodus 3:6</verse></h3>



Moreover he said, I [am] the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the
God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face; for he was (g) afraid to look upon God.



(g) For sin causes man to fear God's justice.
#BCV:Exodus 3:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 3:7>Exodus 3:7</verse></h3>

<page=122>And the LORD said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which [are] in Egypt, and have
heard their cry by reason of their (h) taskmasters; for I know their sorrows;



(h) Whose cruelty was intolerable.
#BCV:Exodus 3:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 3:8>Exodus 3:8</verse></h3>



And I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out
of that land unto a good land and a large, unto a land (i) flowing with milk and honey; unto the
place of the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and
the Jebusites.



(i) Most plentiful of all things.
#BCV:Exodus 3:9
<h3><verse=Exodus 3:9>Exodus 3:9</verse></h3>




(k) Now therefore, behold, the cry of the children of Israel is come unto me: and I have also seen
the oppression wherewith the Egyptians oppress them.



(k) He heard before, but now he would avenge it.
#BCV:Exodus 3:11
<h3><verse=Exodus 3:11>Exodus 3:11</verse></h3>



And Moses said unto God, Who [am] (l) I, that I should go unto Pharaoh, and that I should bring
forth the children of Israel out of Egypt?



(l) He does not fully disobey God, but acknowledges his own weakness.
#BCV:Exodus 3:12
<h3><verse=Exodus 3:12>Exodus 3:12</verse></h3>



And he said, (m) Certainly I will be with thee; and this [shall be] a token unto thee, that I have sent
thee: When thou hast brought forth the people out of Egypt, ye shall serve God upon this
mountain.



(m) Neither fear your own weakness, or Pharaoh's tyranny.
#BCV:Exodus 3:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 3:14>Exodus 3:14</verse></h3>



And God said unto Moses, I (n) AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the
children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.



(n) The God who has always been, am, and shall be: the God almighty, by whom all things have their
being, and the God of mercy, mindful of my promise.
#BCV:Exodus 3:18
<h3><verse=Exodus 3:18>Exodus 3:18</verse></h3>

#BCV:exo 3:18
<h3><verse=exo 3:18>exo 3:18</verse></h3>



king of Egypt, and ye shall say unto him, The LORD God of the Hebrews hath met with us: and
now let us go, we beseech thee, three days' journey into the wilderness, that we may (o) sacrifice to
the LORD our God.



(o) Because Egypt was full of idolatry, God would appoint them a place where they could serve him
purely.
#BCV:Exodus 3:22
<h3><verse=Exodus 3:22>Exodus 3:22</verse></h3>




(p) But every woman shall borrow of her neighbour, and of her that sojourneth in her house, jewels
of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment: and ye shall put [them] upon your sons, and upon your
daughters; and ye shall spoil the Egyptians.



(p) This example may not be followed generally: though at God's commandment they did it justly,
receiving some recompence for their labours.

<h2>Exodus 4</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 4:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 4:1>Exodus 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=124>And Moses answered and said, a] But, behold, they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice:
for they will say, The LORD hath not appeared unto thee.



(a) God bears with Moses doubting, because he was not completely without faith.
#BCV:Exodus 4:5
<h3><verse=Exodus 4:5>Exodus 4:5</verse></h3>




(b) That they may believe that the LORD God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of
Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath appeared unto thee.



(b) This power to work miracles was to confirm his doctrine, and to assure him of his vocation.
#BCV:Exodus 4:9
<h3><verse=Exodus 4:9>Exodus 4:9</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, if they will not believe also these two signs, neither hearken unto thy voice,
that thou shalt take of the (c) water of the river, and pour [it] upon the dry [land]: and the water
which thou takest out of the river shall become blood upon the dry [land].



(c) Because these three signs should be sufficient witnesses to prove that Moses should deliver God's
people.
#BCV:Exodus 4:13
<h3><verse=Exodus 4:13>Exodus 4:13</verse></h3>



And he said, O my Lord, send, I pray thee, by the hand [of him whom] thou (d) wilt send.



(d) That is, the Messiah: or some other, that is more suitable than I.
#BCV:Exodus 4:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 4:14>Exodus 4:14</verse></h3>



And the (e) anger of the LORD was kindled against Moses, and he said, [Is] not Aaron the Levite
thy brother? I know that he can speak well. And also, behold, he cometh forth to meet thee: and
when he seeth thee, he will be glad in his heart.



(e) Though we provoke God justly to anger, yet he will never reject his own.
#BCV:Exodus 4:15
<h3><verse=Exodus 4:15>Exodus 4:15</verse></h3>



And thou shalt speak unto him, and (f) put words in his mouth: and I will be with thy mouth, and
with his mouth, and will teach you what ye shall do.

<page=125>(f) You will instruct him what to say.
#BCV:Exodus 4:16
<h3><verse=Exodus 4:16>Exodus 4:16</verse></h3>



And he shall be thy spokesman unto the people: and he shall be, [even] he shall be to thee instead of
a mouth, and thou shalt be to him instead of (g) God.



(g) Meaning, as a wise counsellor and full of God's spirit.
#BCV:Exodus 4:20
<h3><verse=Exodus 4:20>Exodus 4:20</verse></h3>



And Moses took his wife and his sons, and set them upon an ass, and he returned to the land of
Egypt: and Moses took the (h) rod of God in his hand.



(h) By which he wrought the miracles.
#BCV:Exodus 4:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 4:21>Exodus 4:21</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Moses, When thou goest to return into Egypt, see that thou do all those
wonders before Pharaoh, which I have put in thine hand: but I will (i) harden his heart, that he shall
not let the people go.



(i) By receiving my spirit and delivering him to Satan to increase his anger.
#BCV:Exodus 4:22
<h3><verse=Exodus 4:22>Exodus 4:22</verse></h3>



And thou shalt say unto Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD, Israel [is] my son, [even] my (k) firstborn:



(k) Meaning, most dear to him.
#BCV:Exodus 4:24
<h3><verse=Exodus 4:24>Exodus 4:24</verse></h3>



And it came to pass by the way in the inn, that the LORD met him, and (l) sought to kill him.



(l) God punished him with sickness for neglecting his ordinances.
#BCV:Exodus 4:25
<h3><verse=Exodus 4:25>Exodus 4:25</verse></h3>



Then Zipporah took a sharp stone, and (m) cut off the foreskin of her son, and cast [it] at his feet,
and said, Surely a bloody husband [art] thou to me.



(m) This act was extraordinary: for Moses was very sick and God even then required it.
#BCV:Exodus 4:31
<h3><verse=Exodus 4:31>Exodus 4:31</verse></h3>

#BCV:exo 4:31
<h3><verse=exo 4:31>exo 4:31</verse></h3>



and that he had looked upon their affliction, then they bowed their heads and worshipped.



(n) So that Moses had experience of God's promise that he would have good success.

<h2>Exodus 5</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 5:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 5:1>Exodus 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=127>And afterward Moses and Aaron went in, and told (a) Pharaoh, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel,
Let my people go, that they may (b) hold a feast unto me in the wilderness.



(a) Faith overcomes fear, and makes men bold in their calling. (b) And offer sacrifice.
#BCV:Exodus 5:5
<h3><verse=Exodus 5:5>Exodus 5:5</verse></h3>



And Pharaoh said, Behold, the people of the land now [are] many, and ye (c) make them rest from
their burdens.



(c) As though you would rebel.
#BCV:Exodus 5:6
<h3><verse=Exodus 5:6>Exodus 5:6</verse></h3>



And Pharaoh commanded the same day the taskmasters of the people, and their (d) officers, saying,



(d) Who were of the Israelites, and had charge to see them do their work.
#BCV:Exodus 5:9
<h3><verse=Exodus 5:9>Exodus 5:9</verse></h3>




(e) Let there more work be laid upon the men, that they may labour therein; and let them not regard



(f) vain words.



(e) The more cruelly the tyranny rages, the nearer is God's help.



(f) Of Moses and Aaron.
#BCV:Exodus 5:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 5:21>Exodus 5:21</verse></h3>



And they said unto them, The LORD look upon you, and judge; because ye have made our savour
to be abhorred in the eyes of Pharaoh, and in the eyes of his servants, to (g) put a sword in their
hand to slay us.



(g) It is a grievous things for the servants of God to be accused of evil, especially by their brethren,
when they do what their duty requires.

<h2>Exodus 6</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 6:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 6:3>Exodus 6:3</verse></h3>

<page=128>And I appeared unto Abraham, unto Isaac, and unto Jacob, by [the name of] God Almighty, but by
my name (a) JEHOVAH was I not known to them.



(a) By which he signifies that he will perform indeed that which he promised to their fathers: for this
name declares that he is constant and will perform his promise.
#BCV:Exodus 6:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 6:7>Exodus 6:7</verse></h3>



And I will (b) take you to me for a people, and I will be to you a God: and ye shall know that I [am]
the LORD your God, which bringeth you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.



(b) He means, concerning the outward calling, the dignity of which they lost later by their rebellion:
but as for election to life everlasting, it is unchangeable.
#BCV:Exodus 6:9
<h3><verse=Exodus 6:9>Exodus 6:9</verse></h3>



And Moses spake so unto the children of Israel: but they
hearkened (c) not unto Moses for anguish of spirit, and for cruel bondage.



(c) So hard a thing it is to show true obedience under the cross.
#BCV:Exodus 6:12
<h3><verse=Exodus 6:12>Exodus 6:12</verse></h3>



And Moses spake before the LORD, saying, Behold, the children of Israel have not hearkened unto
me; how then shall Pharaoh hear me, who [am] of (d) uncircumcised lips?



(d) Or barbarous and rude in speech and by this word



(uncircumcised) is signified the whole corruption of man's nature.
#BCV:Exodus 6:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 6:14>Exodus 6:14</verse></h3>



These [be] the heads (e) of their fathers' houses: The sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel;
Hanoch, and Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi: these [be] the families of Reuben.



(e) This genealogy shows whom Moses and Aaron came from.
#BCV:Exodus 6:16
<h3><verse=Exodus 6:16>Exodus 6:16</verse></h3>

<page=129>And these [are] the names of the sons of Levi according to their generations; Gershon, and Kohath,
and Merari: and the years of the life of Levi [were] an hundred (f) thirty and seven years.



(f) For he was 42 years old when he came into Egypt and lived there 94 years.
#BCV:Exodus 6:20
<h3><verse=Exodus 6:20>Exodus 6:20</verse></h3>



And Amram took him Jochebed his (g) father's sister to wife; and she bare him Aaron and Moses:
and the years of the life of Amram [were] an hundred and thirty and seven years.



(g) This type of marriage was later forbidden in the law; (<bcv=Lev 18:12>Lev 18:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 6:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 6:21>Exodus 6:21</verse></h3>



And the sons of Izhar; (h) Korah, and Nepheg, and Zichri.



(h) Moses and he were cousins, whose rebellion was punished in (<bcv=Num 16:1>Num 16:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 6:23
<h3><verse=Exodus 6:23>Exodus 6:23</verse></h3>



And Aaron took him Elisheba, daughter of Amminadab, sister of (i) Naashon, to wife; and she bare
him Nadab, and Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar.



(i) Who was a prince of Judah, (<bcv=Num 1:7>Num 1:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 6:26
<h3><verse=Exodus 6:26>Exodus 6:26</verse></h3>



These [are] that Aaron and Moses, to whom the LORD said, Bring out the children of Israel from
the land of Egypt according to their (k) armies.



(k) For their families were so great, that they might be compared to armies.
#BCV:Exodus 6:30
<h3><verse=Exodus 6:30>Exodus 6:30</verse></h3>



And Moses said before the LORD, Behold, I [am] of (l) uncircumcised lips, and how shall Pharaoh
hearken unto me?



(l) The disobedience both of Moses and of the people, shows that their deliverance came only from
God's free mercy.

<h2>Exodus 7</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 7:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 7:1>Exodus 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=130>And the LORD said unto Moses, See, I have made thee a (a) god to Pharaoh: and Aaron thy brother
shall be thy prophet.



(a) I have given you power and authority to speak in my name and to execute my judgments on him.
#BCV:Exodus 7:4
<h3><verse=Exodus 7:4>Exodus 7:4</verse></h3>



But Pharaoh shall not hearken unto you, that I may lay my hand upon Egypt, and bring forth mine
armies, [and] my people the children of Israel, out of the land of Egypt by great (b) judgments.



(b) To strengthen Moses' faith, God promises again to punish most severely the oppression of his
Church.
#BCV:Exodus 7:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 7:7>Exodus 7:7</verse></h3>



And Moses [was] (c) fourscore years old, and Aaron fourscore and three years old, when they spake
unto Pharaoh.



(c) Moses lived in affliction and banishment forty years before he commanded his office to deliver
God's people.
#BCV:Exodus 7:11
<h3><verse=Exodus 7:11>Exodus 7:11</verse></h3>



Then Pharaoh also called the wise men and the (d) sorcerers: now the magicians of Egypt, they also
did in like manner with their enchantments.



(d) It seems that these were Jannes and Jambres; (<bcv=2Ti 3:8>Ti2 3:8</bcv>) so the wicked maliciously resist the truth
of God.

#BCV:Exodus 7:15
<h3><verse=Exodus 7:15>Exodus 7:15</verse></h3>



Get thee unto Pharaoh in the morning; lo, he goeth out unto the water; and thou shalt stand by (e)
the river's brink against he come; and the rod which was turned to a serpent shalt thou take in thine
hand.



(e) That is, the Nile river.
#BCV:Exodus 7:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 7:21>Exodus 7:21</verse></h3>

<page=131>And the (f) fish that [was] in the river died; and the river stank, and the Egyptians could not drink of
the water of the river; and there was blood throughout all the land of Egypt.



(f) To show that it was a true miracle, God plagued them in that which was most needed for the
preservation of life.
#BCV:Exodus 7:22
<h3><verse=Exodus 7:22>Exodus 7:22</verse></h3>



And the magicians of Egypt did (g) so with their enchantments: and Pharaoh's heart was hardened,
neither did he hearken unto them; as the LORD had said.



(g) In outward appearance, after the seven days were ended.

<h2>Exodus 8</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 8:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 8:2>Exodus 8:2</verse></h3>

<page=132>And if thou refuse to let [them] go, behold, I will smite all thy borders with (a) frogs:



(a) There is nothing so weak that God cannot use it to overcome the greatest power of man.
#BCV:Exodus 8:6
<h3><verse=Exodus 8:6>Exodus 8:6</verse></h3>



And Aaron stretched out his hand over the waters of Egypt; and the frogs came up, and covered the
land of (b) Egypt.



(b) But Goshen, where God's people dwelt, was excepted.
#BCV:Exodus 8:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 8:8>Exodus 8:8</verse></h3>



Then Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron, and said, (c) Intreat the LORD, that he may take away
the frogs from me, and from my people; and I will let the people go, that they may do sacrifice unto
the LORD.



(c) Not love but fear causes the infidels to seek God.
#BCV:Exodus 8:13
<h3><verse=Exodus 8:13>Exodus 8:13</verse></h3>



And the LORD did according to the word of Moses; and the frogs (d) died out of the houses, out
of the villages, and out of the fields.



(d) In things of this life God often hears the prayers of the just for the ungodly.
#BCV:Exodus 8:18
<h3><verse=Exodus 8:18>Exodus 8:18</verse></h3>



And the magicians did so with their enchantments to bring forth lice, but they (e) could not: so there
were lice upon man, and upon beast.



(e) God confounded their wisdom and authority in a thing most vile.
#BCV:Exodus 8:19
<h3><verse=Exodus 8:19>Exodus 8:19</verse></h3>



Then the magicians said unto Pharaoh, This [is] (f) the finger of God: and Pharaoh's heart was
hardened, and he hearkened not unto them; as the LORD had said.



(f) They acknowledged that this was done by God's power and not by sorcery; (<bcv=Luk 11:20>Luk 11:20</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 8:26
<h3><verse=Exodus 8:26>Exodus 8:26</verse></h3>

#BCV:exo 8:26
<h3><verse=exo 8:26>exo 8:26</verse></h3>



to the LORD our God: lo, shall we sacrifice the abomination of the Egyptians before their eyes, and
will they not stone us?



(g) For the Egyptians worshipped various beasts, ox, sheep and such like which the Israelites offered
in sacrifice, a thing the Egyptians abhorred to see.
#BCV:Exodus 8:28
<h3><verse=Exodus 8:28>Exodus 8:28</verse></h3>



And Pharaoh said, I will let you go, that ye may sacrifice to the LORD your God in the wilderness;
only ye shall not (h) go very far away: intreat for me.



(h) So the wicked instruct God's messengers how far they may go.
#BCV:Exodus 8:29
<h3><verse=Exodus 8:29>Exodus 8:29</verse></h3>



And Moses said, Behold, I go out from thee, and I will intreat the LORD that the swarms [of flies]
may depart from Pharaoh, from his servants, and from his people, to morrow: but let not Pharaoh
deal (i) deceitfully any more in not letting the people go to sacrifice to the LORD.



(i) He could not judge his heart, but yet he charged him to do this honestly.
#BCV:Exodus 8:32
<h3><verse=Exodus 8:32>Exodus 8:32</verse></h3>



And Pharaoh (k) hardened his heart at this time also, neither would he let the people go.



(k) Where God does not give faith, no miracles can prevail.

<h2>Exodus 9</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 9:4
<h3><verse=Exodus 9:4>Exodus 9:4</verse></h3>

<page=134>And the LORD shall (a) sever between the cattle of Israel and the cattle of Egypt: and there shall
nothing die of all [that is] the children's of Israel.



(a) He will declare his heavenly judgment against his enemies, and his favour toward his children.
#BCV:Exodus 9:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 9:7>Exodus 9:7</verse></h3>



And Pharaoh (b) sent, and, behold, there was not one of the cattle of the Israelites dead. And the
heart of Pharaoh was hardened, and he did not let the people go.



(b) Into the land of Goshen, where the Israelites lived.
#BCV:Exodus 9:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 9:14>Exodus 9:14</verse></h3>



For I will at this time send all my plagues upon (c) thine heart, and upon thy servants, and upon thy
people; that thou mayest know that [there is] none like me in all the earth.



(c) So that your own conscience will condemn you of ingratitude and malice.
#BCV:Exodus 9:16
<h3><verse=Exodus 9:16>Exodus 9:16</verse></h3>



And in very deed for this [cause] have I raised thee up, for to shew [in] thee my power; and that my



(d) name may be declared throughout all the earth.



(d) That is, that all the world may magnify my power in overcoming you.
#BCV:Exodus 9:19
<h3><verse=Exodus 9:19>Exodus 9:19</verse></h3>



Send therefore now, [and] (e) gather thy cattle, and all that thou hast in the field; [for upon] every
man and beast which shall be found in the field, and shall not be brought home, the hail shall come
down upon them, and they shall die.



(e) Here we see though God's wrath is kindled yet there is a certain mercy shown even to his
enemies.
#BCV:Exodus 9:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 9:21>Exodus 9:21</verse></h3>



And he that regarded not the (f) word of the LORD left his servants and his cattle in the field.



(f) The word of the minister is called the word of God.
#BCV:Exodus 9:27
<h3><verse=Exodus 9:27>Exodus 9:27</verse></h3>

<page=135>And Pharaoh sent, and called for Moses and Aaron, and said unto them, I (g) have sinned this time:
the LORD [is] righteous, and I and my people [are] wicked.



(g) The wicked confess their sins to their condemnation, but they cannot believe to obtain remission.
#BCV:Exodus 9:30
<h3><verse=Exodus 9:30>Exodus 9:30</verse></h3>



But as for thee and thy servants, (h) I know that ye will not yet fear the LORD God.



(h) Meaning that when they have their request, they are never better off, even though they make
many fair promises, in which we see the practices of the wicked.

<h2>Exodus 10</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 10:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 10:2>Exodus 10:2</verse></h3>

<page=136>And that thou mayest tell in the (a) ears of thy son, and of thy son's son, what things I have
wrought in Egypt, and my signs which I have done among them; that ye may know how that I [am]
the LORD.



(a) The miracles would be so great, that they would be spoken of forever: where also we see the
duty of parents toward their children.
#BCV:Exodus 10:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 10:3>Exodus 10:3</verse></h3>



And Moses and Aaron came in unto Pharaoh, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD God of the
Hebrews, How long wilt thou refuse (b) to humble thyself before me? let my people go, that they
may serve me.



(b) The purpose of affliction is that we humble ourselves with true repentance under the hand of
God.
#BCV:Exodus 10:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 10:7>Exodus 10:7</verse></h3>



And Pharaoh's servants said unto him, How long shall this man be a (c) snare unto us? let the men
go, that they may serve the LORD their God: knowest thou not yet that Egypt is destroyed?



(c) Meaning, the occasion of all these evils: so are the godly ever charged as Elijah was by Ahab.
#BCV:Exodus 10:10
<h3><verse=Exodus 10:10>Exodus 10:10</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, Let (d) the LORD be so with you, as I will let you go, and your little ones:
look [to it]; for (e) evil [is] before you.



(d) That is, I hope the degree of affection that the Lord has for you is no more than the degree to
which I want to let you go.



(e) Punishment is prepared for you. Some read, "You intend some mischief".
#BCV:Exodus 10:16
<h3><verse=Exodus 10:16>Exodus 10:16</verse></h3>



Then Pharaoh called for (f) Moses and Aaron in haste; and he said, I have sinned against the LORD
your God, and against you.



(f) The wicked in their misery seek God's ministers for help, even though they hate and detest them.
#BCV:Exodus 10:19
<h3><verse=Exodus 10:19>Exodus 10:19</verse></h3>

#BCV:exo 10:19
<h3><verse=exo 10:19>exo 10:19</verse></h3>



the (g) Red sea; there remained not one locust in all the coasts of Egypt.



(g) The water seemed red, because the sand or gravel is red: the Hebrews call it the Sea of bulrushes.
#BCV:Exodus 10:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 10:21>Exodus 10:21</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Moses, Stretch out thine hand toward heaven, that there may be darkness
over the land of Egypt, even darkness [which] may be (h) felt.



(h) Because it was so thick.
#BCV:Exodus 10:26
<h3><verse=Exodus 10:26>Exodus 10:26</verse></h3>



Our cattle also shall go with us; there shall not an (i) hoof be left behind; for thereof must we take
to serve the LORD our God; and we know not (k) with what we must serve the LORD, until we
come thither.



(i) The ministers of God should not yield one iota to the wicked, in regards to their mission.



(k) That is, with what beasts, or how many.
#BCV:Exodus 10:28
<h3><verse=Exodus 10:28>Exodus 10:28</verse></h3>



And Pharaoh said unto him, Get thee from me, take heed to thyself, see my face no more; for in
[that] day thou seest my face thou shalt (l) die.



(l) Though earlier he admitted Moses was just, yet again in his own heart he threatened to put him to
death.

<h2>Exodus 11</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 11:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 11:1>Exodus 11:1</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Moses, Yet will I bring one plague [more] upon Pharaoh, and upon Egypt;
afterwards he will let you go hence: when he shall let [you] go, he shall (a) surely thrust you out
hence altogether.



(a) Without any condition, but with haste and violence.
#BCV:Exodus 11:5
<h3><verse=Exodus 11:5>Exodus 11:5</verse></h3>

<page=138>And all the firstborn in the land of Egypt shall die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sitteth upon
his throne, even unto the firstborn of the maidservant that [is] behind (b) the mill; and all the
firstborn of beasts.



(b) From the highest to the lowest.
#BCV:Exodus 11:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 11:8>Exodus 11:8</verse></h3>



And all these thy servants shall come down unto me, and bow down themselves unto me, saying,
Get thee out, and all the people that (c) follow thee: and after that I will go out. And he went out
from Pharaoh in a great anger.



(c) That is, under the power and government.
#BCV:Exodus 11:9
<h3><verse=Exodus 11:9>Exodus 11:9</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Moses, Pharaoh shall not hearken unto you; (d) that my wonders may be
multiplied in the land of Egypt.



(d) God hardens the hearts of the reprobate, that his glory by this might be set forth even more,



(<bcv=Rom 9:17>Rom 9:17</bcv>).

<h2>Exodus 12</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 12:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:2>Exodus 12:2</verse></h3>

<page=139>This (a) month [shall be] unto you the beginning of months: it [shall be] the first (b) month of the
year to you.



(a) Called Nisan, containing part of March and part of April.



(b) Concerning the observation of feasts: as for other policies, they reckoned from September.
#BCV:Exodus 12:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:3>Exodus 12:3</verse></h3>



Speak ye unto all the congregation of Israel, saying, In the tenth [day] of this month they shall take
to them every man a lamb, according to the house of [their] (c) fathers, a lamb for an house:



(c) As the fathers of the household had great or small families.
#BCV:Exodus 12:4
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:4>Exodus 12:4</verse></h3>



And if the household be too little for the lamb, let him and his neighbour next unto his house take
[it] according to the number of the souls; every man according to his (d) eating shall make your
count for the lamb.



(d) He will take as many as are needed to eat the lamb.
#BCV:Exodus 12:6
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:6>Exodus 12:6</verse></h3>



And ye shall keep it up until the fourteenth day of the same month: and the (e) whole assembly of
the congregation of Israel shall kill it in the evening.



(e) Every one his house.
#BCV:Exodus 12:9
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:9>Exodus 12:9</verse></h3>



Eat not of it raw, nor sodden at all with water, but roast [with] fire; his (f) head with his legs, and
with the purtenance thereof.



(f) That is, all that may be eaten.
#BCV:Exodus 12:11
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:11>Exodus 12:11</verse></h3>



And thus shall ye eat it; [with] your loins girded, your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand;
and ye shall eat it in haste: (g) it [is] the LORD'S passover.

<page=140>(g) The lamb was not the Passover, but signified it, as ordinances are not the thing itself which they
represent, but rather they signify it.
#BCV:Exodus 12:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:14>Exodus 12:14</verse></h3>



And this day shall be unto you for a (h) memorial; and ye shall keep it a feast to the LORD
throughout your generations; ye shall keep it a feast by an ordinance (i) for ever.



(h) Of the benefits received for your deliverance.



(i) That is, until Christ's coming: for then ceremonies will end.
#BCV:Exodus 12:18
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:18>Exodus 12:18</verse></h3>



In the first [month], on the fourteenth day of the month at (k) even, ye shall eat unleavened bread,
until the one and twentieth day of the month at even.



(k) For in ancient times they counted in this way, beginning the day at sunset till the next day at the
same time.
#BCV:Exodus 12:23
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:23>Exodus 12:23</verse></h3>



For the LORD will pass through to smite the Egyptians; and when he seeth the blood upon the
lintel, and on the two side posts, the LORD will pass over the door, and will not suffer the (l)
destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite [you].



(l) The angel sent by God to kill the first born.
#BCV:Exodus 12:25
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:25>Exodus 12:25</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, when ye be come to the (m) land which the LORD will give you,
according as he hath promised, that ye shall keep this service.



(m) The land of Canaan.
#BCV:Exodus 12:27
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:27>Exodus 12:27</verse></h3>



That ye shall say, It [is] the sacrifice of the LORD'S passover, who passed over the houses of the
children of Israel in Egypt, when he smote the Egyptians, and delivered our houses. And the people



(n) bowed the head and worshipped.



(n) They gave God thanks for so great a benefit.
#BCV:Exodus 12:30
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:30>Exodus 12:30</verse></h3>

#BCV:exo 12:30
<h3><verse=exo 12:30>exo 12:30</verse></h3>



great cry in Egypt; for [there was] (o) not a house where [there was] not one dead.



(o) Of these houses, in which any first born lived, either of men of beasts.
#BCV:Exodus 12:32
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:32>Exodus 12:32</verse></h3>



Also take your flocks and your herds, as ye have said, and be gone; and (p) bless me also.



(p) Pray for me.
#BCV:Exodus 12:37
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:37>Exodus 12:37</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel journeyed from (q) Rameses to Succoth, about six hundred thousand on
foot [that were] men, beside children.



(q) Which was a city in Goshen; (<bcv=Gen 47:11>Gen 47:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 12:38
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:38>Exodus 12:38</verse></h3>



And (r) a mixed multitude went up also with them; and flocks, and herds, [even] very much cattle.



(r) Which were strangers, and not born from the Israelites.
#BCV:Exodus 12:41
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:41>Exodus 12:41</verse></h3>



And it came to pass at the end of the (s) four hundred and thirty years, even the selfsame day it
came to pass, that all the hosts of the LORD went out from the land of Egypt.



(s) From Abraham's departing from Ur in Chaldea to the departing of the children of Israel from
Egypt are 430 years.
#BCV:Exodus 12:43
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:43>Exodus 12:43</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Moses and Aaron, This [is] the ordinance of the passover: (t) There shall
no stranger eat thereof:



(t) Unless he is circumcised, and professes your religion only.
#BCV:Exodus 12:49
<h3><verse=Exodus 12:49>Exodus 12:49</verse></h3>



One (u) law shall be to him that is homeborn, and unto the stranger that sojourneth among you.

<page=142>(u) They that are of the household of God, must be all joined in one faith and religion.

<h2>Exodus 13</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 13:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 13:3>Exodus 13:3</verse></h3>

<page=143>And Moses said unto the people, Remember this day, in which ye came out from Egypt, out of the
house of (a) bondage; for by strength of hand the LORD brought you out from this [place]: there
shall no leavened bread be (b) eaten.



(a) Where they were in most cruel slavery.



(b) To signify that they did not have time to leaven their bread.
#BCV:Exodus 13:4
<h3><verse=Exodus 13:4>Exodus 13:4</verse></h3>



This day came ye out in the month (c) Abib.



(c) Containing part of March and part of April, when corn began to ripen in that country.
#BCV:Exodus 13:6
<h3><verse=Exodus 13:6>Exodus 13:6</verse></h3>



Seven days thou shalt eat unleavened bread, and in the (d) seventh day [shall be] a feast to the LORD.



(d) Both the seventh and the first day were holy, as in (<bcv=Exo 12:16>Exo 12:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 13:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 13:8>Exodus 13:8</verse></h3>



And thou shalt shew thy son (e) in that day, saying, [This is done] because of that [which] the LORD
did unto me when I came forth out of Egypt.



(e) When you celebrate the feast of unleavened bread.
#BCV:Exodus 13:9
<h3><verse=Exodus 13:9>Exodus 13:9</verse></h3>



And it shall be for a sign unto thee (f) upon thine hand, and for a memorial between thine eyes, that
the LORD'S law may be in thy mouth: for with a strong hand hath the LORD brought thee out of
Egypt.



(f) You will constantly remember it, as you would of a thing that is in your hand, or before your eyes.
#BCV:Exodus 13:13
<h3><verse=Exodus 13:13>Exodus 13:13</verse></h3>



And every firstling of an (g) ass thou shalt redeem with a lamb; and if thou wilt not redeem it, then
thou shalt break his neck: and all the firstborn of man among thy children shalt thou (h) redeem.



(g) This is also understood about the horse and other beasts which were not offered in sacrifice.

<page=144>(h) By offering a clean beast in sacrifice; <bcv=Lev 12:6>(Lev 12:6).</bcv>
#BCV:Exodus 13:17
<h3><verse=Exodus 13:17>Exodus 13:17</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God led them not [through] the way
of the land of the Philistines, although that [was] near; for God said, Lest peradventure the people
repent when they (i) see war, and they return to Egypt:



(i) Which the Philistines would have made against them by blocking their passage.
#BCV:Exodus 13:18
<h3><verse=Exodus 13:18>Exodus 13:18</verse></h3>



But God led the people about, [through] the way of the wilderness of the Red sea: and the children
of Israel went up (k) harnessed out of the land of Egypt.



(k) That is, not secretly but openly and as the word signifies, set in order by five and five.
#BCV:Exodus 13:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 13:21>Exodus 13:21</verse></h3>



And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of a (l) cloud, to lead them the way; and by night
in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night:



(l) To defend them from the heat of the sun.

<h2>Exodus 14</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 14:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 14:2>Exodus 14:2</verse></h3>

<page=145>Speak unto the children of Israel, that they (a) turn and encamp before (b) Pihahiroth, between
Migdol and the sea, over against Baalzephon: before it shall ye encamp by the sea.



(a) From toward the country of the Philistines.



(b) So the Sea was before them, mountains on either side, and the enemies at their back: yet they
obeyed God, and were delivered.
#BCV:Exodus 14:4
<h3><verse=Exodus 14:4>Exodus 14:4</verse></h3>



And I will harden Pharaoh's heart, that he shall follow after them; and I will (c) be honoured upon
Pharaoh, and upon all his host; that the Egyptians may know that I [am] the LORD. And they did so.



(c) By punishing his obstinate rebellion.
#BCV:Exodus 14:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 14:7>Exodus 14:7</verse></h3>



And he took six hundred chosen chariots, and (d) all the chariots of Egypt, and captains over every
one of them.



(d) Josephus writes that besides those chariots, there were 50,000 horsemen, and 80,000 footmen.
#BCV:Exodus 14:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 14:8>Exodus 14:8</verse></h3>



And the LORD hardened the heart of Pharaoh king of Egypt, and he pursued after the children of
Israel: and the children of Israel went out with an (e) high hand.



(e) With great joy and boldness.
#BCV:Exodus 14:10
<h3><verse=Exodus 14:10>Exodus 14:10</verse></h3>



And when Pharaoh drew nigh, the children of Israel lifted up their eyes, and, behold, the Egyptians
marched after them; and they were sore (f) afraid: and the children of Israel cried out unto the
LORD.



(f) They who earlier had rejoiced in their deliverance, being now in danger, are afraid.
#BCV:Exodus 14:12
<h3><verse=Exodus 14:12>Exodus 14:12</verse></h3>

<page=146>[Is] not this the word that we did tell thee in Egypt, saying, Let (g) us alone, that we may serve the
Egyptians? For [it had been] better for us to serve the Egyptians, than that we should die in the
wilderness.



(g) Such is the impatience of the flesh, that it cannot wait for God's appointed time.
#BCV:Exodus 14:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 14:14>Exodus 14:14</verse></h3>



The LORD shall fight for you, and ye shall (h) hold your peace.



(h) Only put your trust in God without grudging or doubting.
#BCV:Exodus 14:15
<h3><verse=Exodus 14:15>Exodus 14:15</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Moses, Wherefore (i) criest thou unto me? speak unto the children of
Israel, that they go forward:



(i) Thus in temptation faith fights against the flesh, and cries with inward groanings to the Lord.
#BCV:Exodus 14:20
<h3><verse=Exodus 14:20>Exodus 14:20</verse></h3>



And it came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel; and it was a cloud and
darkness [to them], but it gave (k) light by night [to these]: so that the one came not near the other
all the night.



(k) The cloud gave light to the Israelites, but to the Egyptians it was darkness, so that their two
groups could not join together.
#BCV:Exodus 14:24
<h3><verse=Exodus 14:24>Exodus 14:24</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, that in the morning (l) watch the LORD looked unto the host of the Egyptians
through the pillar of fire and of the cloud, and troubled the host of the Egyptians,



(l) Which was about the last three hours of the night.
#BCV:Exodus 14:27
<h3><verse=Exodus 14:27>Exodus 14:27</verse></h3>



And Moses stretched forth his hand over the sea, and the sea returned to his strength when the
morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled against it; and the LORD (m) overthrew the Egyptians in
the midst of the sea.



(m) So, using the water, the Lord saved his own and drowned his enemies.
#BCV:Exodus 14:31
<h3><verse=Exodus 14:31>Exodus 14:31</verse></h3>

#BCV:exo 14:31
<h3><verse=exo 14:31>exo 14:31</verse></h3>



LORD, and believed the LORD, and his (n) servant Moses.



(n) That is, the doctrine which he taught them in the Name of the Lord.

<h2>Exodus 15</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 15:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 15:1>Exodus 15:1</verse></h3>

<page=148>Then (a) sang Moses and the children of Israel this song unto the LORD, and spake, saying, I will
sing unto the LORD, for he hath triumphed gloriously: the horse and his rider hath he thrown into
the sea.



(a) Praising God for the overthrow of his enemies, and their deliverance.
#BCV:Exodus 15:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 15:2>Exodus 15:2</verse></h3>



The LORD [is] my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he [is] my God, and I will (b)
prepare him an habitation; my father's God, and I will exalt him.



(b) To worship him in it.
#BCV:Exodus 15:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 15:3>Exodus 15:3</verse></h3>



The LORD [is] a (c) man of war: the LORD [is] his (d) name.



(c) In battle he always overcomes.



(d) Always constant in his promises.
#BCV:Exodus 15:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 15:7>Exodus 15:7</verse></h3>



And in the greatness of thine excellency thou hast overthrown them that rose up against (e) thee:
thou sentest forth thy wrath, [which] consumed them as stubble.



(e) Those who are enemies to God's people are his enemies.
#BCV:Exodus 15:11
<h3><verse=Exodus 15:11>Exodus 15:11</verse></h3>



Who [is] like unto thee, O LORD, among the (f) gods? who [is] like thee, glorious in holiness, (g)
fearful [in] praises, doing wonders?



(f) The scripture often so calls the mighty men of the world.



(g) Who ought to be praised with all fear and reverence.
#BCV:Exodus 15:13
<h3><verse=Exodus 15:13>Exodus 15:13</verse></h3>



Thou in thy mercy hast led forth the people [which] thou hast redeemed: thou hast guided [them] in
thy strength unto thy holy (h) habitation.

<page=149>(h) That is, into the land of Canaan, or into mount Zion.
#BCV:Exodus 15:17
<h3><verse=Exodus 15:17>Exodus 15:17</verse></h3>



Thou shalt bring them in, and plant them in the mountain of thine (i) inheritance, [in] the place, O
LORD, [which] thou hast made for thee to dwell in, [in] the Sanctuary, O Lord, [which] thy hands
have established.



(i) Which was mount Zion, where later the temple was built.
#BCV:Exodus 15:20
<h3><verse=Exodus 15:20>Exodus 15:20</verse></h3>



And Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women went
out after her with timbrels and with (k) dances.



(k) Signifying their great joy: a custom the Jews observed in certain situations, <bcv=Jdg 11:34>(Jdg 11:34)</bcv> but it
should not be used as a means to justify our wanton dances.

#BCV:Exodus 15:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 15:21>Exodus 15:21</verse></h3>



And Miriam (l) answered them, Sing ye to the LORD, for he hath triumphed gloriously; the horse
and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.



(l) By singing the same song of thanksgiving.
#BCV:Exodus 15:22
<h3><verse=Exodus 15:22>Exodus 15:22</verse></h3>



So Moses brought Israel from the Red sea, and they went out into the wilderness of (m) Shur; and
they went three days in the wilderness, and found no water.



(m) Which was called Etham, (<bcv=Num 33:8>Num 33:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 15:25
<h3><verse=Exodus 15:25>Exodus 15:25</verse></h3>



And he cried unto the LORD; and the LORD shewed him a tree, [which] when he had cast into the
waters, the waters were made sweet: there he made for them a statute and an ordinance, and there (n)
he proved them,



(n) That is, God, or Moses in God's name.
#BCV:Exodus 15:26
<h3><verse=Exodus 15:26>Exodus 15:26</verse></h3>

<page=150>And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which
is (o) right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put
none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I [am] the LORD
that healeth thee.



(o) Which is, to do only what God commanded.

<h2>Exodus 16</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 16:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:1>Exodus 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=151>And they took their journey from Elim, and all the congregation of the children of Israel came unto
the wilderness of (a) Sin, which [is] between Elim and Sinai, on the fifteenth day of the second
month after their departing out of the land of Egypt.



(a) This is the eighth place in which they had camped, there is another place called Zin, which was
the 33rd place in which they camped, and is also called Kadesh, (<bcv=Num 33:36>Num 33:36</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 16:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:3>Exodus 16:3</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel said unto them, Would to God we had died by the hand of the LORD in
the land of Egypt, when we sat by the flesh (b) pots, [and] when we did eat bread to the full; for ye
have brought us forth into this wilderness, to kill this whole assembly with hunger.



(b) It is a hard thing for the flesh not to complain against God when the stomach is empty.
#BCV:Exodus 16:4
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:4>Exodus 16:4</verse></h3>



Then said the LORD unto Moses, Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you; and the people
shall go out and gather a certain rate every (c) day, that I may prove them, whether they will walk in
my law, or no.



(c) To signify that they should patiently depend on God's providence from day to day.
#BCV:Exodus 16:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:7>Exodus 16:7</verse></h3>



And in the morning, then ye shall see the glory of the LORD; (d) for that he heareth your
murmurings against the LORD: and what [are] we, that ye murmur against us?



(d) He did not give them Manna because they complained, but because of his promise.
#BCV:Exodus 16:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:8>Exodus 16:8</verse></h3>



And Moses said, [This shall be], when the LORD shall give you in the evening flesh to eat, and in
the morning bread to the full; for that the LORD heareth your murmurings which ye murmur
against him: and what [are] we? your murmurings [are] not against us, but against the (e) LORD.



(e) He that condemns God's ministers, condemns God himself.
#BCV:Exodus 16:15
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:15>Exodus 16:15</verse></h3>

<page=152>And when the children of Israel saw [it], they said one to another, It [is] (f) manna: for they wist not
what it [was]. And Moses said unto them, This [is] the bread which the LORD hath given you to eat.



(f) Which signifies a part, portion, or gift: also meat prepared.
#BCV:Exodus 16:16
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:16>Exodus 16:16</verse></h3>



This [is] the thing which the LORD hath commanded, Gather of it every man according to his
eating, (g) an omer for every man, [according to] the number of your persons; take ye every man for
[them] which [are] in his tents.



(g) Which contains about half a gallon in our measure.
#BCV:Exodus 16:18
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:18>Exodus 16:18</verse></h3>



And when they did mete [it] with an omer, he that gathered much had nothing over, and he that
gathered little had no (h) lack; they gathered every man according to his eating.



(h) God richly feeds everyone, and no one can justly complain.
#BCV:Exodus 16:20
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:20>Exodus 16:20</verse></h3>



Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto Moses; but some of them left of it until the morning, and
it bred worms, and (i) stank: and Moses was wroth with them.



(i) No creature is so pure, but being abused it turns to our destruction.
#BCV:Exodus 16:22
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:22>Exodus 16:22</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, [that] on the sixth day they gathered (k) twice as much bread, two omers for
one [man]: and all the rulers of the congregation came and told Moses.



(k) Which would serve for the Sabbath and the day before.
#BCV:Exodus 16:25
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:25>Exodus 16:25</verse></h3>



And Moses said, Eat that to day; for to day [is] a sabbath unto the LORD: to day ye shall not (l) find
it in the field.



(l) God took away the opportunity for their labour, to signify how holy he would have the Sabbath
kept.
#BCV:Exodus 16:27
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:27>Exodus 16:27</verse></h3>

<page=153>And it came to pass, [that] there (m) went out [some] of the people on the seventh day for to gather,
and they found none.



(m) Their unfaithfulness was so great, that they did exactly the opposite of God's commandment.
#BCV:Exodus 16:31
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:31>Exodus 16:31</verse></h3>



And the house of Israel called the name thereof Manna: and it [was] like (n) coriander seed, white;
and the taste of it [was] like wafers [made] with honey.



(n) In form and figure, but not in colour; (<bcv=Num 11:7>Num 11:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 16:33
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:33>Exodus 16:33</verse></h3>



And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a (o) pot, and put an omer full of manna therein, and lay it up
before the LORD, to be kept for your generations.



(o) Of this vessel read (<bcv=Heb 9:4>Heb 9:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 16:34
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:34>Exodus 16:34</verse></h3>



As the LORD commanded Moses, so Aaron laid it up before the (p) Testimony, to be kept.



(p) That is, the Ark of the covenant that is, after the Ark was made.
#BCV:Exodus 16:36
<h3><verse=Exodus 16:36>Exodus 16:36</verse></h3>



Now an omer [is] the tenth [part] of an (q) ephah.



(q) Which measure contained about five gallons.

<h2>Exodus 17</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 17:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 17:1>Exodus 17:1</verse></h3>

<page=154>And all the congregation of the children of Israel journeyed from the wilderness of Sin, after their
journeys, according to the commandment of the LORD, and pitched in (a) Rephidim: and [there
was] no water for the people to drink.



(a) Moses does not note every place where they camped as in Numbers 33, but only those places
where some notable thing was done.
#BCV:Exodus 17:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 17:2>Exodus 17:2</verse></h3>



Wherefore the people did chide with Moses, and said, Give us water that we may drink. And Moses
said unto them, Why chide ye with me? wherefore do ye (b) tempt the LORD?



(b) Why do you distrust God? Why do you not look for comfort from him without complaining to
us?
#BCV:Exodus 17:4
<h3><verse=Exodus 17:4>Exodus 17:4</verse></h3>



And Moses cried unto the LORD, saying, What shall I do unto this people? they be almost ready to



(c) stone me.



(c) How ready the people are to slay the true prophets for their own purposes and how slow they are
to take up God's cause against his enemies and false prophets.
#BCV:Exodus 17:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 17:7>Exodus 17:7</verse></h3>



And he called the name of the place Massah, and Meribah, because of the chiding of the children
of Israel, and because they tempted the LORD, saying, Is the (d) LORD among us, or not?



(d) When in adversity we think God is absent, then we neglect his promise and make him a liar.
#BCV:Exodus 17:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 17:8>Exodus 17:8</verse></h3>



Then came (e) Amalek, and fought with Israel in Rephidim.



(e) Who came from Eliphaz, son of Esau, (<bcv=Gen 36:12>Gen 36:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 17:9
<h3><verse=Exodus 17:9>Exodus 17:9</verse></h3>



And Moses said unto Joshua, Choose us out men, and go out, fight with Amalek: to morrow I will
stand on the top of the (f) hill with the rod of God in mine hand.

<page=155>(f) That is, Horeb, which is also called Sinai.
#BCV:Exodus 17:11
<h3><verse=Exodus 17:11>Exodus 17:11</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let (g) down
his hand, Amalek prevailed.



(g) So that we see how dangerous a thing it is to cease in prayer.
#BCV:Exodus 17:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 17:14>Exodus 17:14</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Moses, Write this [for] a memorial (h) in a book, and rehearse [it] in the
ears of Joshua: for I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven.



(h) In the book of the law.
#BCV:Exodus 17:15
<h3><verse=Exodus 17:15>Exodus 17:15</verse></h3>



And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it (i) Jehovahnissi:



(i) That is, the Lord is my banner as he declared by holding up his rod and his hands.

<h2>Exodus 18</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 18:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 18:2>Exodus 18:2</verse></h3>

<page=156>Then Jethro, Moses' father in law, took Zipporah, Moses' wife, after he had (a) sent her back,


(a) It may seem that he sent her back for a time to her father for her impatience, lest she should be a
hinderance to his calling, which was so dangerous, (<bcv=Exo 4:25>Exo 4:25</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 18:5
<h3><verse=Exodus 18:5>Exodus 18:5</verse></h3>



And Jethro, Moses' father in law, came with his sons and his wife unto Moses into the wilderness,
where he encamped at the (b) mount of God:



(b) Horeb is called the mount of God, because God did many miracles there. So Peter calls the
mount where Christ was transfigured, the holy mount: for by Christ's presence it was holy for a time,
(<bcv=2Pe 1:18>Pe2 1:18</bcv>).

#BCV:Exodus 18:6
<h3><verse=Exodus 18:6>Exodus 18:6</verse></h3>



And he (c) said unto Moses, I thy father in law Jethro am come unto thee, and thy wife, and her two
sons with her.



(c) That is, he sent messengers to say to him.
#BCV:Exodus 18:10
<h3><verse=Exodus 18:10>Exodus 18:10</verse></h3>



And Jethro said, (d) Blessed [be] the LORD, who hath delivered you out of the hand of the
Egyptians, and out of the hand of Pharaoh, who hath delivered the people from under the hand of
the Egyptians.



(d) By this it is evident that he worshipped the true God, and therefore Moses did not refuse to
marry his daughter.
#BCV:Exodus 18:11
<h3><verse=Exodus 18:11>Exodus 18:11</verse></h3>



Now I know that the LORD [is] greater than all gods: for in the thing wherein they dealt proudly (e)
[he was] above them.



(e) For they that drowned the children of the Israelites, perished themselves by water.
#BCV:Exodus 18:12
<h3><verse=Exodus 18:12>Exodus 18:12</verse></h3>

<page=157>And Jethro, Moses' father in law, took a burnt offering and sacrifices for God: and Aaron came, and
all the elders of Israel, to eat bread with Moses' father in law (f) before God.



(f) They ate in the place, where the sacrifice was offered: for part was burnt, and the rest eaten.
#BCV:Exodus 18:15
<h3><verse=Exodus 18:15>Exodus 18:15</verse></h3>



And Moses said unto his father in law, Because the people come unto me to enquire of (g) God:



(g) That is, to know God's will, and to have justice executed.
#BCV:Exodus 18:19
<h3><verse=Exodus 18:19>Exodus 18:19</verse></h3>



Hearken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee: Be thou for the
people to (h) God-ward, that thou mayest bring the causes unto God:



(h) You judge in difficult cases, which cannot be decided without consulting with God.
#BCV:Exodus 18:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 18:21>Exodus 18:21</verse></h3>



Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people (i) able men, such as fear God, men of truth,
hating covetousness; and place [such] over them, [to be] rulers of thousands, [and] rulers of
hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens:



(i) What manner of men ought to be chosen to bear office.
#BCV:Exodus 18:24
<h3><verse=Exodus 18:24>Exodus 18:24</verse></h3>



So Moses (k) hearkened to the voice of his father in law, and did all that he had said.



(k) Godly counsel should always be obeyed, even if it comes from our inferiors, for to such God
often gives wisdom to humble those that are exalted, and to declare that one member has need of
another.
#BCV:Exodus 18:27
<h3><verse=Exodus 18:27>Exodus 18:27</verse></h3>



And Moses (l) let his father in law depart; and he went his way into his own land.



(l) Read (<bcv=Num 10:29>Num 10:29</bcv>).

<h2>Exodus 19</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 19:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 19:1>Exodus 19:1</verse></h3>

<page=158>In the (a) third month, when the children of Israel were gone forth out of the land of Egypt, the
same (b) day came they [into] the wilderness of Sinai.



(a) Which was in the beginning of the month of Sivan, containing part of May and part of June.



(b) That they departed from Rephidim.
#BCV:Exodus 19:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 19:3>Exodus 19:3</verse></h3>



And Moses went up unto God, and the LORD called unto him out of the mountain, saying, Thus
shalt thou say to the house of (c) Jacob, and tell the children of Israel;



(c) God called Jacob, Israel: therefore the house of Jacob and the people of Israel signify God's
people.
#BCV:Exodus 19:4
<h3><verse=Exodus 19:4>Exodus 19:4</verse></h3>



Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and [how] I bare you on (d) eagles' wings, and brought
you unto myself.



(d) For the eagle by flying high, is out of danger, and by carrying her birds on her wings rather than
in her talons declares her love.
#BCV:Exodus 19:10
<h3><verse=Exodus 19:10>Exodus 19:10</verse></h3>


And the LORD said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and (e) sanctify them to day and to morrow,
and let them wash their clothes,


(e) Teach them to be pure in heart, as they show themselves outwardly clean by washing.

#BCV:Exodus 19:15
<h3><verse=Exodus 19:15>Exodus 19:15</verse></h3>


And he said unto the people, Be ready against the third day: come not at [your] (f) wives.


(f) But give yourselves to prayer and abstinence, that you may at this time attend only upon the Lord,


(<bcv=1Co 7:5>1Co 7:5</bcv>).

#BCV:Exodus 19:18
<h3><verse=Exodus 19:18>Exodus 19:18</verse></h3>

<page=159>And mount Sinai was altogether on a smoke, because the LORD descended upon it in fire: and the
smoke thereof ascended as the smoke of a furnace, and the whole mount (g) quaked greatly.


(g) God used these fearful signs, that his law would be held in greater reverence, and his majesty
even more feared.

#BCV:Exodus 19:19
<h3><verse=Exodus 19:19>Exodus 19:19</verse></h3>


And when the voice of the trumpet sounded long, and waxed louder and louder, Moses spake, and
God answered him by a (h) voice.


(h) He gave authority to Moses by plain words, that the people might understand him.

#BCV:Exodus 19:24
<h3><verse=Exodus 19:24>Exodus 19:24</verse></h3>


And the LORD said unto him, Away, get thee down, and thou shalt come up, thou, and Aaron with
thee: but let not the (i) priests and the people break through to come up unto the LORD, lest he
break forth upon them.


(i) Neither dignity nor multitude have authority to pass the bounds that God's word prescribes.

<h2>Exodus 20</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 20:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 20:1>Exodus 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=160>And God (a) spake all these words, saying,

(a) When Moses and Aaron were gone up, or had passed the bounds of the people, God spoke thus
out of the mount Horeb, that all the people heard.
#BCV:Exodus 20:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 20:3>Exodus 20:3</verse></h3>

Thou shalt have no other gods (b) before me.

(b) To whose eyes all things are open.
#BCV:Exodus 20:5
<h3><verse=Exodus 20:5>Exodus 20:5</verse></h3>

Thou shalt not (c) bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God [am] a (d)
jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth
[generation] of them that hate me;

(c) By this outward gesture, all forms of service and worship to idols is forbidden.

(d) And will have revenge on those who condemn my honour.
#BCV:Exodus 20:6
<h3><verse=Exodus 20:6>Exodus 20:6</verse></h3>

And shewing mercy unto (e) thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.

(e) So ready is he rather to show mercy than to punish.
#BCV:Exodus 20:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 20:7>Exodus 20:7</verse></h3>

Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in (f) vain; for the LORD will not hold him
guiltless that taketh his name in vain.

(f) Either by swearing falsely or rashly by his Name, or by condemning it.
#BCV:Exodus 20:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 20:8>Exodus 20:8</verse></h3>

Remember the sabbath day, (g) to keep it holy.

(g) Which is by meditating the spiritual rest, by hearing God's word, and resting from worldly
labours.
#BCV:Exodus 20:12
<h3><verse=Exodus 20:12>Exodus 20:12</verse></h3>

<page=161>Honour thy (h) father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD
thy God giveth thee.

(h) By parents it is also meant all that have authority over us.
#BCV:Exodus 20:13
<h3><verse=Exodus 20:13>Exodus 20:13</verse></h3>

Thou shalt not (i) kill.

(i) But love and preserve your brother's life.
#BCV:Exodus 20:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 20:14>Exodus 20:14</verse></h3>



Thou shalt not (k) commit adultery.



(k) But be pure in heart, word and deed.
#BCV:Exodus 20:15
<h3><verse=Exodus 20:15>Exodus 20:15</verse></h3>



Thou shalt not (l) steal.



(l) But study to save his goods.
#BCV:Exodus 20:16
<h3><verse=Exodus 20:16>Exodus 20:16</verse></h3>



Thou shalt not bear false (m) witness against thy neighbour.



(m) But further his good name, and speak truth.
#BCV:Exodus 20:17
<h3><verse=Exodus 20:17>Exodus 20:17</verse></h3>



Thou shalt not (n) covet thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbour's wife, nor his
manservant, nor his maidservant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that [is] thy neighbour's.



(n) You may not so much as wish his hinderance in anything.
#BCV:Exodus 20:20
<h3><verse=Exodus 20:20>Exodus 20:20</verse></h3>



And Moses said unto the people, Fear not: for God is come to (o) prove you, and that his fear may
be before your faces, that ye sin not.



(o) Whether you will obey his precepts as you promised in (<bcv=Exo 19:8>Exo 19:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 20:26
<h3><verse=Exodus 20:26>Exodus 20:26</verse></h3>

<page=162>Neither shalt thou go up by steps unto mine altar, that thy (p) nakedness be not discovered thereon.



(p) Which might be by his stooping or flying up of his clothes.

<h2>Exodus 21</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 21:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:2>Exodus 21:2</verse></h3>

<page=163>If thou buy an Hebrew servant, six years he shall serve: and in the seventh he shall go out free for (a)
nothing.



(a) Paying no money for his freedom.
#BCV:Exodus 21:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:3>Exodus 21:3</verse></h3>



If he (b) came in by himself, he shall go out by himself: if he were married, then his wife shall go
out with him.



(b) Not having wife nor children.
#BCV:Exodus 21:4
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:4>Exodus 21:4</verse></h3>



If his master have given him a wife, and she have born him sons or daughters; the wife and her
children shall be her (c) master's, and he shall go out by himself.



(c) Till her time of servitude was expired which might be the seventh year or the fiftieth.
#BCV:Exodus 21:6
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:6>Exodus 21:6</verse></h3>



Then his master shall bring him unto the judges; he shall also bring him to the (d) door, or unto the
door post; and his master shall bore his ear through with an aul; and he shall serve him for (e) ever.



(d) Where the judges sat.



(e) That is, to the year of Jubile, which was every fiftieth year.
#BCV:Exodus 21:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:7>Exodus 21:7</verse></h3>



And if a man (f) sell his daughter to be a maidservant, she shall not go out as the menservants do.



(f) Forced either by poverty, or else with the intent that the master should marry her.
#BCV:Exodus 21:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:8>Exodus 21:8</verse></h3>



If she please not her master, who hath betrothed her to himself, then shall (g) he let her be
redeemed: to sell her unto a strange nation he shall have no power, seeing he hath dealt deceitfully
with her.



(g) By giving another money to buy her from him.
#BCV:Exodus 21:9
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:9>Exodus 21:9</verse></h3>

<page=164>And if he have betrothed her unto his son, he shall deal with her (h) after the manner of daughters.



(h) That is, he shall give his dowry.
#BCV:Exodus 21:10
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:10>Exodus 21:10</verse></h3>



If he take (i) him another [wife]; her food, her raiment, and her duty of marriage, shall he not
diminish.



(i) For his son.
#BCV:Exodus 21:11
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:11>Exodus 21:11</verse></h3>



And if he do not these (k) three unto her, then shall she go out free without money.



(k) Neither marry her himself, nor give another money to buy her, nor bestow her on his son.
#BCV:Exodus 21:13
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:13>Exodus 21:13</verse></h3>



And if a man lie not in wait, but (l) God deliver [him] into his hand; then I will appoint thee a place
whither he shall flee.



(l) Though a man be killed unawares, yet it is God's providence that it should so be.
#BCV:Exodus 21:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:14>Exodus 21:14</verse></h3>



But if a man come presumptuously upon his neighbour, to slay him with guile; thou shalt take him
from mine (m) altar, that he may die.



(m) The holiness of the place should not defend the murderer.
#BCV:Exodus 21:18
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:18>Exodus 21:18</verse></h3>



And if men strive together, and one smite another with a (n) stone, or with [his] fist, and he die not,
but keepeth [his] bed:



(n) Either far away from him or near.
#BCV:Exodus 21:19
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:19>Exodus 21:19</verse></h3>

<page=165>If he rise again, and walk abroad upon his staff, then shall he that smote [him] be (o) quit: only he
shall pay [for] the loss of his time, and shall cause [him] to be thoroughly healed.



(o) By the civil justice.
#BCV:Exodus 21:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:21>Exodus 21:21</verse></h3>



Notwithstanding, if he continue a day or two, he shall not (p) be punished: for he [is] his money.



(p) By the civil magistrate, but before God he is a murderer.
#BCV:Exodus 21:22
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:22>Exodus 21:22</verse></h3>



If men strive, and hurt a woman with child, so that her fruit depart [from her], and yet no (q)
mischief follow: he shall be surely punished, according as the woman's husband will lay upon him;
and he shall pay as the judges [determine].



(q) Or, "death": of the mother or child in the event she miscarries. Also the death on the unborn
infant.
#BCV:Exodus 21:24
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:24>Exodus 21:24</verse></h3>




(r) Eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot,



(r) The execution of this law only belonged to the magistrate, (<bcv=Mat 5:38>Mat 5:38</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 21:27
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:27>Exodus 21:27</verse></h3>



And if he smite (s) out his manservant's tooth, or his maidservant's tooth; he shall let him go free
for his tooth's sake.



(s) So God revenges cruelty in the even the least things.
#BCV:Exodus 21:28
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:28>Exodus 21:28</verse></h3>



If an ox gore a man or a woman, that they die: then the ox shall be surely (t) stoned, and his flesh
shall not be eaten; but the owner of the ox [shall be] quit.



(t) If the beast be punished, much more shall the murderer.
#BCV:Exodus 21:30
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:30>Exodus 21:30</verse></h3>



If there be laid on him a (u) sum of money, then he shall give for the ransom of his life whatsoever
is laid upon him.

<page=166>(u) By the next of the kindred of him that is so slain.
#BCV:Exodus 21:32
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:32>Exodus 21:32</verse></h3>



If the ox shall push a manservant or a maidservant; he shall give unto their master thirty (x) shekels
of silver, and the ox shall be stoned.



(x) Read (<bcv=Gen 23:15>Gen 23:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 21:34
<h3><verse=Exodus 21:34>Exodus 21:34</verse></h3>



The owner of the pit shall (y) make [it] good, [and] give money unto the owner of them; and the
dead [beast] shall be his.



(y) This law forbids not only to hurt, but to beware lest any be hurt.

<h2>Exodus 22</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 22:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 22:1>Exodus 22:1</verse></h3>

<page=167>If a man shall steal an (a) ox, or a sheep, and kill it, or sell it; he shall restore five oxen for an ox, and
four sheep for a sheep.



(a) Either a great beast of the herd, or a small beast of the flock.
#BCV:Exodus 22:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 22:2>Exodus 22:2</verse></h3>



If a thief be found (b) breaking up, and be smitten that he die, [there shall] no blood [be shed] for
him.



(b) Breaking a house to enter in, or undermining.
#BCV:Exodus 22:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 22:3>Exodus 22:3</verse></h3>



If the sun be risen upon him, [there shall be] (c) blood [shed] for him; [for] he should make full
restitution; if he have nothing, then he shall be sold for his theft.



(c) He shall be put to death that kills him.
#BCV:Exodus 22:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 22:8>Exodus 22:8</verse></h3>



If the thief be not found, then the master of the house shall be brought unto the judges, [to see]
whether he have (d) put his hand unto his neighbour's goods.



(d) That is, whether he has stolen.
#BCV:Exodus 22:11
<h3><verse=Exodus 22:11>Exodus 22:11</verse></h3>




(e) [Then] shall an oath of the LORD be between them both, that he hath not put his hand unto his
neighbour's goods; and the owner of it shall accept [thereof], and he shall not make [it] good.



(e) They should swear by the name of the Lord.
#BCV:Exodus 22:13
<h3><verse=Exodus 22:13>Exodus 22:13</verse></h3>



If it be torn in pieces, [then] let him bring (f) it [for] witness, [and] he shall not make good that
which was torn.



(f) He shall show some part of the beast or bring in witnesses.
#BCV:Exodus 22:15
<h3><verse=Exodus 22:15>Exodus 22:15</verse></h3>

#BCV:exo 22:15
<h3><verse=exo 22:15>exo 22:15</verse></h3>



came for his hire.



(g) He that hired it shall be free by paying the hire.
#BCV:Exodus 22:24
<h3><verse=Exodus 22:24>Exodus 22:24</verse></h3>



And my wrath shall wax hot, and I will kill you with the sword; and your (h) wives shall be widows,
and your children fatherless.



(h) The just plague of God on the oppressors.
#BCV:Exodus 22:27
<h3><verse=Exodus 22:27>Exodus 22:27</verse></h3>



For that [is] his covering only, it [is] his raiment for his skin: wherein shall he sleep? and it shall come
to pass, when he (i) crieth unto me, that I will hear; for I [am] gracious.



(i) For cold and necessity.
#BCV:Exodus 22:29
<h3><verse=Exodus 22:29>Exodus 22:29</verse></h3>



Thou shalt not delay [to offer] the (k) first of thy ripe fruits, and of thy liquors: the firstborn of thy
sons shalt thou give unto me.



(k) Your abundance of your corn.
#BCV:Exodus 22:31
<h3><verse=Exodus 22:31>Exodus 22:31</verse></h3>



And ye shall be holy men unto me: neither shall ye eat [any] flesh [that is] torn of beasts in the field;
ye shall cast it (l) to the dogs.



(l) And so have nothing to do with it.

<h2>Exodus 23</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 23:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 23:2>Exodus 23:2</verse></h3>

<page=169>Thou shalt not follow a multitude to [do] evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause (a) to decline after
many to wrest [judgment]:



(a) Do that which is godly, though few favour it.
#BCV:Exodus 23:4
<h3><verse=Exodus 23:4>Exodus 23:4</verse></h3>



If thou meet thine enemy's ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely (b) bring it back to him again.



(b) If we are bound to do good to our enemies beast, how much more to our enemy himself, <bcv=Mt 5:44>(Mat 5:44).</bcv>

#BCV:Exodus 23:5
<h3><verse=Exodus 23:5>Exodus 23:5</verse></h3>



If thou see the (c) ass of him that hateth thee lying under his burden, and wouldest forbear to help
him, thou shalt surely help with him.



(c) If God commands us to help our enemy's donkey under his burden, will he suffer us to cast
down our brethren with heavy burdens?
#BCV:Exodus 23:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 23:7>Exodus 23:7</verse></h3>



Keep thee far from a false matter; and the (d) innocent and righteous slay thou not: for I will not
justify the wicked.



(d) Whether you are the magistrate or are commanded by the magistrate.
#BCV:Exodus 23:9
<h3><verse=Exodus 23:9>Exodus 23:9</verse></h3>



Also thou shalt not oppress a stranger: for ye know the (e) heart of a stranger, seeing ye were
strangers in the land of Egypt.



(e) For since he is a stranger, his heart is sorrowful enough.
#BCV:Exodus 23:13
<h3><verse=Exodus 23:13>Exodus 23:13</verse></h3>



And in all [things] that I have said unto you be circumspect: and make (f) no mention of the name
of other gods, neither let it be heard out of thy mouth.



(f) Neither by swearing by them, nor speaking of them, (<bcv=Psa 16:4>Psa 16:4</bcv>;<bcv=Eph 5:3> Eph 5:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 23:15
<h3><verse=Exodus 23:15>Exodus 23:15</verse></h3>

<page=170>Thou shalt keep the feast of (g) unleavened bread: (thou shalt eat unleavened bread seven days, as I
commanded thee, in the time appointed of the month Abib; for in it thou camest out from Egypt:
and none shall appear before me empty:)



(g) That is, Easter, in remembrance that the angel passed over and spared the Israelites, when he
slew the first born of the Egyptians.
#BCV:Exodus 23:16
<h3><verse=Exodus 23:16>Exodus 23:16</verse></h3>



And the (h) feast of harvest, the firstfruits of thy labours, which thou hast sown in the field: and the



(i) feast of ingathering, [which is] in the end of the year, when thou hast gathered in thy labours out
of the field.



(h) Which is Whit Sunday, in token that the law was given 50 days after they departed from Egypt.



(i) This is the feast of tabernacles, signifying that they lived for 40 years in the tents or the
tabernacles in the wilderness.
#BCV:Exodus 23:18
<h3><verse=Exodus 23:18>Exodus 23:18</verse></h3>



Thou shalt not offer the blood of my sacrifice with (k) leavened bread; neither shall the fat of my
sacrifice remain until the morning.



(k) No leavened bread will be in your house.
#BCV:Exodus 23:19
<h3><verse=Exodus 23:19>Exodus 23:19</verse></h3>



The first of the firstfruits of thy land thou shalt bring into the house of the LORD thy God. Thou
shalt not seethe a kid in his (l) mother's milk.



(l) Meaning, that no fruit should be taken before just time: and by this all cruel and wanton appetites
are controlled.
#BCV:Exodus 23:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 23:21>Exodus 23:21</verse></h3>



Beware of him, and obey his voice, provoke him not; for he will not pardon your transgressions: for
my (m) name [is] in him.



(m) I will give him my authority, and he will govern you in my name.
#BCV:Exodus 23:24
<h3><verse=Exodus 23:24>Exodus 23:24</verse></h3>

<page=171>Thou shalt not bow down to their gods, nor serve them, nor do after their works: but thou shalt (n)
utterly overthrow them, and quite break down their images.



(n) God commands his own to not only not worship idols, but to destroy them.
#BCV:Exodus 23:25
<h3><verse=Exodus 23:25>Exodus 23:25</verse></h3>



And ye shall serve the LORD your God, and he shall bless thy (o) bread, and thy water; and I will
take sickness away from the midst of thee.



(o) That is, all things necessary for this present life.
#BCV:Exodus 23:27
<h3><verse=Exodus 23:27>Exodus 23:27</verse></h3>



I will send my (p) fear before thee, and will destroy all the people to whom thou shalt come, and I
will make all thine enemies turn their backs unto thee.



(p) I will make them afraid of your coming and send my angel to destroy them, as in (<bcv=Exo 35:2>Exo 35:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 23:31
<h3><verse=Exodus 23:31>Exodus 23:31</verse></h3>



And I will set thy bounds from the Red sea even unto the sea (q) of the Philistines, and from the (r)
desert unto the (s) river: for I will deliver the inhabitants of the land into your hand; and thou shalt
drive them out before thee.



(q) Called the Sea of Syria.



(r) Of Arabia called desert.



(s) That is, Ephraim.

<h2>Exodus 24</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 24:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 24:1>Exodus 24:1</verse></h3>

<page=172>And he (a) said unto Moses, Come up unto the LORD, thou, and Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, and
seventy of the elders of Israel; and worship ye afar off.



(a) When he called him up to the mountain to give him the laws, beginning at the 20th chapter till
now.
#BCV:Exodus 24:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 24:3>Exodus 24:3</verse></h3>




(b) And Moses came and told the people all the words of the LORD, and all the judgments: and all
the people answered with one voice, and said, All the words which the LORD hath said will we do.



(b) When he had received these laws in mount Sinai.
#BCV:Exodus 24:5
<h3><verse=Exodus 24:5>Exodus 24:5</verse></h3>



And he sent young (c) men of the children of Israel, which offered burnt offerings, and sacrificed
peace offerings of oxen unto the LORD.



(c) For as yet the priesthood was not given to Levi.
#BCV:Exodus 24:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 24:8>Exodus 24:8</verse></h3>



And Moses took the blood, and sprinkled [it] on the people, and said, Behold the (d) blood of the
covenant, which the LORD hath made with you concerning all these words.



(d) Which signifies that the covenant broken cannot be satisfied without shedding of blood.
#BCV:Exodus 24:10
<h3><verse=Exodus 24:10>Exodus 24:10</verse></h3>



And they (e) saw the God of Israel: and [there was] under his feet as it were a paved work of a
sapphire stone, and as it were the body of heaven in [his] clearness.



(e) As perfectly as their infirmities could behold his majesty.
#BCV:Exodus 24:11
<h3><verse=Exodus 24:11>Exodus 24:11</verse></h3>



And upon the nobles of the children of Israel he (f) laid not his hand: also they saw God, and (g)
did eat and drink.



(f) He did not make them afraid, nor punish them.

<page=173>(g) That is, rejoiced.

#BCV:Exodus 24:12
<h3><verse=Exodus 24:12>Exodus 24:12</verse></h3>


And the LORD (h) said unto Moses, Come up to me into the mount, and be there: and I will give
thee (i) tables of stone, and a law, and commandments which I have written; that thou mayest teach
(k) them.


(h) The second time.


(i) Signifying the hardness of our hearts, unless God writes his laws in it by his Spirit, (<bcv=Jer 31:33>Jer 31:33</bcv>; <bcv=Eze 11:19>Eze 11:19</bcv>; 
<bcv=2Co 3:3>Co2 3:3</bcv>;<bcv=Heb 8:10> Heb 8:10</bcv>,<bcv=Heb 10:16> Heb 10:16</bcv>)



(k) That is, the people.
#BCV:Exodus 24:17
<h3><verse=Exodus 24:17>Exodus 24:17</verse></h3>



And the sight of the glory of the LORD [was] like (l) devouring fire on the top of the mount in the
eyes of the children of Israel.



(l) The Lord appears like devouring fire to carnal men: but to them that he draws with his Spirit, he
is like pleasant sapphire.

<h2>Exodus 25</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 25:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 25:2>Exodus 25:2</verse></h3>


<page=174>(a) Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it
willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering.



(a) After the moral and judicial law he gives them the ceremonial law that nothing should be left to
man's invention.
#BCV:Exodus 25:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 25:3>Exodus 25:3</verse></h3>



And this [is] the offering which ye shall (b) take of them; gold, and silver, and brass,



(b) For the building and use of the tabernacle.
#BCV:Exodus 25:5
<h3><verse=Exodus 25:5>Exodus 25:5</verse></h3>



And rams' skins dyed red, and badgers' skins, and (c) shittim wood,



(c) Which is thought to be a kindred of Cedar, which will not rot.
#BCV:Exodus 25:6
<h3><verse=Exodus 25:6>Exodus 25:6</verse></h3>



Oil for the light, spices for (d) anointing oil, and for sweet incense,



(d) Ordained for the priest.
#BCV:Exodus 25:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 25:8>Exodus 25:8</verse></h3>



And let them make me a (e) sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.



(e) A place both to offer sacrifice, and to hear the law.
#BCV:Exodus 25:16
<h3><verse=Exodus 25:16>Exodus 25:16</verse></h3>



And thou shalt put into the ark the (f) testimony which I shall give thee.



(f) The stone tables, the rod of Aaron and manna which were a testimony of God's presence.
#BCV:Exodus 25:17
<h3><verse=Exodus 25:17>Exodus 25:17</verse></h3>



And thou shalt make a (g) mercy seat [of] pure gold: two cubits and a half [shall be] the length
thereof, and a cubit and a half the breadth thereof.

<page=175>(g) There God appeared mercifully to them: and this was a figure of Christ.
#BCV:Exodus 25:29
<h3><verse=Exodus 25:29>Exodus 25:29</verse></h3>



And thou shalt make the (h) dishes thereof, and spoons thereof, and covers thereof, and bowls
thereof, to cover withal: [of] pure gold shalt thou make them.



(h) To set the bread upon.
#BCV:Exodus 25:31
<h3><verse=Exodus 25:31>Exodus 25:31</verse></h3>



And thou shalt make a candlestick [of] pure gold: [of] beaten (i) work shall the candlestick be made:
his shaft, and his branches, his bowls, his knops, and his flowers, shall be of the same.



(i) It shall not be molten, but beaten out of the lump of gold with the hammer.
#BCV:Exodus 25:39
<h3><verse=Exodus 25:39>Exodus 25:39</verse></h3>



[Of] a (k) talent of pure gold shall he make it, with all these vessels.



(k) This was the talent weight of the temple, and weighed 120 pounds.

<h2>Exodus 26</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 26:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 26:1>Exodus 26:1</verse></h3>

<page=176>Moreover thou shalt make the tabernacle [with] ten curtains [of] fine twined linen, and blue, and
purple, and scarlet: [with] cherubims of (a) cunning work shalt thou make them.



(a) That is, of most cunning or fine work.
#BCV:Exodus 26:4
<h3><verse=Exodus 26:4>Exodus 26:4</verse></h3>



And thou shalt make loops of blue upon the edge of the one curtain from the selvedge (b) in the
coupling; and likewise shalt thou make in the uttermost edge of [another] curtain, in the coupling of
the second.



(b) On the side that the curtains might be tied together.
#BCV:Exodus 26:5
<h3><verse=Exodus 26:5>Exodus 26:5</verse></h3>



Fifty loops shalt thou make in the one curtain, and fifty loops shalt thou make in the edge of the
curtain that [is] in the coupling of the (c) second; that the loops may take hold one of another.



(c) In tying together both the sides.
#BCV:Exodus 26:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 26:7>Exodus 26:7</verse></h3>



And thou shalt make curtains [of] goats' [hair] to be a (d) covering upon the tabernacle: eleven
curtains shalt thou make.



(d) Lest rain and weather should mar it.
#BCV:Exodus 26:9
<h3><verse=Exodus 26:9>Exodus 26:9</verse></h3>



And thou shalt couple five curtains by themselves, and six curtains by themselves, and shalt double
the (e) sixth curtain in the forefront of the tabernacle.



(e) That is, five on the one side, and five on the other, and the sixth should hang over the door of
the tabernacle.
#BCV:Exodus 26:12
<h3><verse=Exodus 26:12>Exodus 26:12</verse></h3>



And the (f) remnant that remaineth of the curtains of the tent, the half curtain that remaineth, shall
hang over the backside of the tabernacle.

<page=177>(f) For these curtains were two cubits longer than the curtain of the tabernacle so that they were
wider by a cubit of both sides.
#BCV:Exodus 26:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 26:14>Exodus 26:14</verse></h3>



And thou shalt make a (g) covering for the tent [of] rams' skins dyed red, and a covering above [of]



(h) badgers' skins.



(g) To be put on the covering that was made of goats hair.



(h) This was the third covering of the tabernacle.
#BCV:Exodus 26:24
<h3><verse=Exodus 26:24>Exodus 26:24</verse></h3>



And they shall be coupled together beneath, and they shall be (i) coupled together above the head of
it unto one ring: thus shall it be for them both; they shall be for the two corners.



(i) The Hebrew word signifies twins declaring that they should be as perfect and well joined as
possible.

#BCV:Exodus 26:32
<h3><verse=Exodus 26:32>Exodus 26:32</verse></h3>



And thou shalt hang it upon four pillars of shittim [wood] overlaid with gold: their (k) hooks [shall
be of] gold, upon the four sockets of silver.



(k) Some read "heads of the pillars".
#BCV:Exodus 26:33
<h3><verse=Exodus 26:33>Exodus 26:33</verse></h3>



And thou shalt hang up the vail under the taches, that thou mayest bring in thither within the vail the
ark of the testimony: and the vail shall divide unto you between the holy [place] and the (l) most holy.



(l) In which only the high priest entered and only once a year.
#BCV:Exodus 26:35
<h3><verse=Exodus 26:35>Exodus 26:35</verse></h3>



And thou shalt set the table (m) without the vail, and the candlestick over against the table on the
side of the tabernacle toward the south: and thou shalt put the table on the north side.



(m) Meaning, in the holy place.
#BCV:Exodus 26:36
<h3><verse=Exodus 26:36>Exodus 26:36</verse></h3>

<page=178>And thou shalt make an (n) hanging for the door of the tent, [of] blue, and purple, and scarlet, and
fine twined linen, wrought with needlework.



(n) This hanging or veil was between the holy place, and there where the people were.

<h2>Exodus 27</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 27:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 27:1>Exodus 27:1</verse></h3>

<page=179>And thou shalt make an (a) altar [of] shittim wood, five cubits long, and five cubits broad; the altar
shall be foursquare: and the height thereof [shall be] three cubits.



(a) For the burnt offering.
#BCV:Exodus 27:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 27:2>Exodus 27:2</verse></h3>



And thou shalt make the horns of it upon the four corners thereof: his horns shall be of (b) the
same: and thou shalt overlay it with brass.



(b) Of the same wood and matter not fastened to it.
#BCV:Exodus 27:9
<h3><verse=Exodus 27:9>Exodus 27:9</verse></h3>



And thou shalt make the (c) court of the tabernacle: for the south side southward [there shall be]
hangings for the court [of] fine twined linen of an hundred cubits long for one side:



(c) This was the first entry into the tabernacle, where the people abode.
#BCV:Exodus 27:10
<h3><verse=Exodus 27:10>Exodus 27:10</verse></h3>



And the twenty pillars thereof and their twenty sockets [shall be of] brass; the hooks of the pillars
and their (d) fillets [shall be of] silver.



(d) They were certain hoops or circles to beautify the pillar.
#BCV:Exodus 27:13
<h3><verse=Exodus 27:13>Exodus 27:13</verse></h3>



And the breadth of the court on the east side eastward [shall be] (e) fifty cubits.



(e) Meaning curtains of fifty cubits.
#BCV:Exodus 27:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 27:14>Exodus 27:14</verse></h3>



The hangings of one (f) side [of the gate shall be] fifteen cubits: their pillars three, and their sockets
three.



(f) Of the door of the court.
#BCV:Exodus 27:19
<h3><verse=Exodus 27:19>Exodus 27:19</verse></h3>

<page=180>All the vessels of the tabernacle in all the service thereof, and all the (g) pins thereof, and all the pins
of the court, [shall be of] brass.



(g) Or stakes, with which the curtains were fastened to the ground.
#BCV:Exodus 27:20
<h3><verse=Exodus 27:20>Exodus 27:20</verse></h3>



And thou shalt command the children of Israel, that they bring thee pure oil olive (h) beaten for the
light, to cause the lamp to burn always.



(h) Such as comes from the olive, when it is first pressed or beaten.

<h2>Exodus 28</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 28:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:2>Exodus 28:2</verse></h3>

<page=181>And thou shalt make holy garments for Aaron thy brother for (a) glory and for beauty.

(a) By which his office may be known to be glorious and excellent.
#BCV:Exodus 28:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:3>Exodus 28:3</verse></h3>



And thou shalt speak unto all [that are] wise hearted, whom I have filled with the spirit of wisdom,
that they may make Aaron's garments to (b) consecrate him, that he may minister unto me in the
priest's office.



(b) Which is to separate him from the rest.
#BCV:Exodus 28:4
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:4>Exodus 28:4</verse></h3>



And these [are] the garments which they shall make; a breastplate, and an (c) ephod, and a robe, and
a broidered coat, a mitre, and a girdle: and they shall make holy garments for Aaron thy brother, and
his sons, that he may minister unto me in the priest's office.



(c) A short an straight coat without sleeves, put on top of his garments to keep them close to him.
#BCV:Exodus 28:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:8>Exodus 28:8</verse></h3>



And the (d) curious girdle of the ephod, which [is] upon it, shall be of the same, according to the
work thereof; [even of] gold, [of] blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen.



(d) Which went about his upmost coat.
#BCV:Exodus 28:10
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:10>Exodus 28:10</verse></h3>



Six of their names on one stone, and [the other] six names of the rest on the other stone, according
to (e) their birth.



(e) As they were in age, so should they be graven in order.
#BCV:Exodus 28:12
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:12>Exodus 28:12</verse></h3>



And thou shalt put the two stones upon the shoulders of the ephod [for] stones of (f) memorial
unto the children of Israel: and Aaron shall bear their names before the LORD upon his two
shoulders for a memorial.

<page=182>(f) That Aaron might remind the Israelites of God.
#BCV:Exodus 28:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:14>Exodus 28:14</verse></h3>



And two chains [of] pure gold (g) at the ends; [of] wreathen work shalt thou make them, and fasten
the wreathen chains to the ouches.



(g) Of the bosses.
#BCV:Exodus 28:15
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:15>Exodus 28:15</verse></h3>



And thou shalt make the breastplate of (h) judgment with cunning work; after the work of the
ephod thou shalt make it; [of] gold, [of] blue, and [of] purple, and [of] scarlet, and [of] fine twined
linen, shalt thou make it.



(h) It was so called, because the high priest could not give sentence in judgment without that on his
breast.
#BCV:Exodus 28:16
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:16>Exodus 28:16</verse></h3>




(i) Foursquare it shall be [being] doubled; a span [shall be] the length thereof, and a span [shall be]
the breadth thereof.



(i) The description of the breastplate.
#BCV:Exodus 28:23
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:23>Exodus 28:23</verse></h3>



And thou shalt make upon the breastplate two rings of gold, and shalt put the two rings on (k) the
two ends of the breastplate.



(k) Which are upmost toward the shoulder.
#BCV:Exodus 28:26
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:26>Exodus 28:26</verse></h3>



And thou shalt make two rings of gold, and thou shalt put them upon the (l) two ends of the
breastplate in the border thereof, which [is] in the side of the ephod inward.



(l) Which are beneath.
#BCV:Exodus 28:29
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:29>Exodus 28:29</verse></h3>



And Aaron shall bear the names of the children of Israel in the breastplate of judgment upon his
heart, when he goeth in unto the holy [place], for a memorial before the LORD continually.

<page=183>(m) Aaron will not enter into the holy place in his own name, but in the name of all the children of
Israel.
#BCV:Exodus 28:30
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:30>Exodus 28:30</verse></h3>



And thou shalt put in the breastplate of judgment the (n) Urim and the Thummim; and they shall be
upon Aaron's heart, when he goeth in before the LORD: and Aaron shall bear the judgment of the
children of Israel upon his heart before the LORD continually.



(n) Urim signifies light, and thummim perfection: declaring that the stones of the breastplate were
most clear, and of perfect beauty: by urim also is meant knowledge, and thummim holiness, showing
what virtues are required in the priests.
#BCV:Exodus 28:36
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:36>Exodus 28:36</verse></h3>



And thou shalt make a plate [of] pure gold, and grave upon it, [like] the engravings of a signet, (o)
HOLINESS TO THE LORD.



(o) Holiness belongs to the Lord: for he is most holy, and nothing unholy may appear before him.
#BCV:Exodus 28:38
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:38>Exodus 28:38</verse></h3>



And it shall be upon Aaron's forehead, that Aaron may (p) bear the iniquity of the holy things,
which the children of Israel shall hallow in all their holy gifts; and it shall be always upon his
forehead, that they may be accepted before the LORD.



(p) Their offerings could not be so perfect, but some fault would be in them: which sin the high
priest bore and pacified God.
#BCV:Exodus 28:41
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:41>Exodus 28:41</verse></h3>



And thou shalt put them upon Aaron thy brother, and his sons with him; and shalt anoint them, and



(q) consecrate them, and sanctify them, that they may minister unto me in the priest's office.



(q) Or "fill their hands", by giving them things to offer and therefore admit them to their office.
#BCV:Exodus 28:43
<h3><verse=Exodus 28:43>Exodus 28:43</verse></h3>



And they shall be upon Aaron, and upon his sons, when they come in unto the tabernacle of the
congregation, or when they come near unto the altar to minister in the holy [place]; that they (r) bear
not iniquity, and die: [it shall be] a statute for ever unto him and his seed after him.



(r) In not hiding their nakedness.

<h2>Exodus 29</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 29:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 29:3>Exodus 29:3</verse></h3>

<page=185>And thou shalt put them into one basket, and (a) bring them in the basket, with the bullock and the
two rams.



(a) To offer them in sacrifice.
#BCV:Exodus 29:5
<h3><verse=Exodus 29:5>Exodus 29:5</verse></h3>



And thou shalt take the garments, and put upon Aaron the coat, and the (b) robe of the ephod, and
the ephod, and the breastplate, and gird him with the curious girdle of the ephod:



(b) Which was next under the Ephod.
#BCV:Exodus 29:10
<h3><verse=Exodus 29:10>Exodus 29:10</verse></h3>



And thou shalt cause a bullock to be brought before the tabernacle of the congregation: and Aaron
and his sons shall (c) put their hands upon the head of the bullock.



(c) Signifying that the sacrifice was also offered for them, and that they approved it.
#BCV:Exodus 29:18
<h3><verse=Exodus 29:18>Exodus 29:18</verse></h3>



And thou shalt burn the whole ram upon the altar: it [is] a burnt offering unto the LORD: (d) it [is]
a sweet savour, an offering made by fire unto the LORD.



(d) Or, savour of rest, which causes the wrath of God to cease.
#BCV:Exodus 29:20
<h3><verse=Exodus 29:20>Exodus 29:20</verse></h3>



Then shalt thou kill the ram, and take of his blood, and put [it] (e) upon the tip of the right ear of
Aaron, and upon the tip of the right ear of his sons, and upon the thumb of their right hand, and
upon the great toe of their right foot, and sprinkle the blood upon the altar round about.



(e) Meaning the soft and lower part of the ear.
#BCV:Exodus 29:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 29:21>Exodus 29:21</verse></h3>



And thou shalt take of the blood that [is] (f) upon the altar, and of the anointing oil, and sprinkle [it]
upon Aaron, and upon his garments, and upon his sons, and upon the garments of his sons with
him: and he shall be hallowed, and his garments, and his sons, and his sons' garments with him.

<page=186>(f) With which the Altar must be sprinkled.
#BCV:Exodus 29:22
<h3><verse=Exodus 29:22>Exodus 29:22</verse></h3>



Also thou shalt take of the ram the fat and the rump, and the fat that covereth the inwards, and the
caul [above] the liver, and the two kidneys, and the fat that [is] upon them, and the right shoulder;
for it [is] a (g) ram of consecration:



(g) Which is offered for the consecration of the high priest.
#BCV:Exodus 29:26
<h3><verse=Exodus 29:26>Exodus 29:26</verse></h3>



And thou shalt take the breast of the ram of Aaron's consecration, and wave it (h) [for] a wave
offering before the LORD: and it shall be thy part.



(h) This sacrifice the priest did move toward the East, West, North, and South.
#BCV:Exodus 29:27
<h3><verse=Exodus 29:27>Exodus 29:27</verse></h3>



And thou shalt sanctify the breast of the wave offering, and the shoulder of the (i) heave offering,
which is waved, and which is heaved up, of the ram of the consecration, [even] of [that] which [is]
for Aaron, and of [that] which is for his sons:



(i) So called because it was not only shaken to and fro, but also lifted up.
#BCV:Exodus 29:28
<h3><verse=Exodus 29:28>Exodus 29:28</verse></h3>



And it shall be Aaron's and his sons' by a statute for ever from the children of Israel: for it [is] an
heave offering: and it shall be an heave offering from the children of Israel of the sacrifice of their



(k) peace offerings, [even] their heave offering unto the LORD.



(k) Which were offerings of thanksgiving to God for his benefits.
#BCV:Exodus 29:33
<h3><verse=Exodus 29:33>Exodus 29:33</verse></h3>



And they shall eat those things (l) wherewith the atonement was made, to consecrate [and] to
sanctify them: but a stranger shall not eat [thereof], because they [are] holy.



(l) That is, by the sacrifices.
#BCV:Exodus 29:36
<h3><verse=Exodus 29:36>Exodus 29:36</verse></h3>

<page=187>And thou shalt offer every day a bullock [for] a sin offering for (m) atonement: and thou shalt
cleanse the altar, when thou hast made an atonement for it, and thou shalt anoint it, to sanctify it.



(m) To appease God's wrath that sin may be pardoned.
#BCV:Exodus 29:40
<h3><verse=Exodus 29:40>Exodus 29:40</verse></h3>



And with the one lamb a (n) tenth deal of flour mingled with the fourth part of an (o) hin of beaten
oil; and the fourth part of an hin of wine [for] a drink offering.



(n) That is, an Omer, read (<bcv=Exo 16:16>Exo 16:16</bcv>).



(o) Which is about a pint.
#BCV:Exodus 29:43
<h3><verse=Exodus 29:43>Exodus 29:43</verse></h3>



And there I will meet with the children of Israel, and [the tabernacle] shall be sanctified by my (p)
glory.



(p) Because of my glorious presence.
#BCV:Exodus 29:46
<h3><verse=Exodus 29:46>Exodus 29:46</verse></h3>



And they shall know that I [am] the LORD their God, that brought them forth out of the land of
Egypt, that I may dwell among them: (q) I [am] the LORD their God.



(q) It is I the Lord, that am their God.

<h2>Exodus 30</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 30:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 30:1>Exodus 30:1</verse></h3>

<page=188>And thou shalt make an altar (a) to burn incense upon: [of] shittim wood shalt thou make it.



(a) Upon which the sweet perfume was burnt, (<bcv=Exo 30:34>Exo 30:34</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 30:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 30:2>Exodus 30:2</verse></h3>



A cubit [shall be] the length thereof, and a cubit the breadth thereof; foursquare shall it be: and two
cubits [shall be] the height thereof: the horns thereof [shall be] (b) of the same.



(b) Of the same wood and matter.
#BCV:Exodus 30:6
<h3><verse=Exodus 30:6>Exodus 30:6</verse></h3>



And thou shalt put it (c) before the vail that [is] by the ark of the testimony, before the mercy seat
that [is] over the testimony, where I will meet with thee.



(c) That is, in the sanctuary, and not in the holiest of all.
#BCV:Exodus 30:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 30:7>Exodus 30:7</verse></h3>



And Aaron shall burn thereon sweet incense every morning: when he (d) dresseth the lamps, he shall
burn incense upon it.



(d) Meaning, when he trims them, and refreshes the oil.
#BCV:Exodus 30:9
<h3><verse=Exodus 30:9>Exodus 30:9</verse></h3>



Ye shall offer no (e) strange incense thereon, nor burnt sacrifice, nor meat offering; neither shall ye
pour drink offering (f) thereon.



(e) Otherwise made them this, which is described.



(f) But it must only serve to burn perfume.
#BCV:Exodus 30:12
<h3><verse=Exodus 30:12>Exodus 30:12</verse></h3>



When thou takest the sum of the children of Israel after their number, then shall they give every
man (g) a ransom for his soul unto the LORD, when thou numberest them; that there be no plague
among them, when [thou] numberest them.

<page=189>(g) By which he testified that he redeemed his life which he had forfeit, as is declared by David, (<bcv=2Sam 24:1>Sa2 24:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 30:13
<h3><verse=Exodus 30:13>Exodus 30:13</verse></h3>



This they shall give, every one that passeth among them that are numbered, half a shekel after the (h)
shekel of the sanctuary: (a shekel [is] twenty gerahs:) an half shekel [shall be] the offering of the
LORD.



(h) This shekel was worth two common shekels: and the gerah about 12 pence at a rate of five
shillings sterling to an ounce of silver.
#BCV:Exodus 30:15
<h3><verse=Exodus 30:15>Exodus 30:15</verse></h3>



The rich shall not give more, and the poor shall not give less than half a shekel, when [they] give an
offering unto the LORD, (i) to make an atonement for your souls.



(i) That God should be merciful to you.
#BCV:Exodus 30:19
<h3><verse=Exodus 30:19>Exodus 30:19</verse></h3>



For Aaron and his sons shall (k) wash their hands and their feet thereat:



(k) Signifying that he that comes to God must be washed from all sin and corruption.
#BCV:Exodus 30:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 30:21>Exodus 30:21</verse></h3>



So they shall wash their hands and their feet, that they die not: and it shall be a statute (l) for ever to
them, [even] to him and to his seed throughout their generations.



(l) So long as the priesthood shall last.
#BCV:Exodus 30:23
<h3><verse=Exodus 30:23>Exodus 30:23</verse></h3>



Take thou also unto thee principal spices, of pure myrrh five hundred (m) [shekels], and of sweet
cinnamon half so much, [even] two hundred and fifty [shekels], and of sweet (n) calamus two
hundred and fifty [shekels],



(m) Weighing so much.



(n) It is a type of reed with a very sweet savour within, and it is used in powders and odours.
#BCV:Exodus 30:26
<h3><verse=Exodus 30:26>Exodus 30:26</verse></h3>

<page=190>And thou shalt anoint the (o) tabernacle of the congregation therewith, and the ark of the testimony,



(o) All things which belong to the tabernacle.
#BCV:Exodus 30:32
<h3><verse=Exodus 30:32>Exodus 30:32</verse></h3>



Upon (p) man's flesh shall it not be poured, neither shall ye make [any other] like it, after the
composition of it: it [is] holy, [and] it shall be holy unto you.



(p) Neither at their burials nor otherwise.
#BCV:Exodus 30:33
<h3><verse=Exodus 30:33>Exodus 30:33</verse></h3>



Whosoever compoundeth [any] like it, or whosoever putteth [any] of it upon (q) a stranger, shall
even be cut off from his people.



(q) Either a stranger or an Israelite, save only the priests.
#BCV:Exodus 30:34
<h3><verse=Exodus 30:34>Exodus 30:34</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Moses, Take unto thee sweet spices, stacte, and (r) onycha, and galbanum;
[these] sweet spices with pure frankincense: of each shall there be a like [weight]:



(r) In Hebrew, <transhebrew>Sheheleth:<english> which is a sweet kind of gum and shines as the nail.

<h2>Exodus 31</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 31:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 31:2>Exodus 31:2</verse></h3>

<page=191>See, I (a) have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah:



(a) I have chosen and made meet, (<bcv=Exo 35:30>Exo 35:30</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 31:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 31:3>Exodus 31:3</verse></h3>



And I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge,
and in all manner of (b) workmanship,



(b) This shows that handicrafts are the gifts of God's spirit, and therefore ought to be esteemed.
#BCV:Exodus 31:6
<h3><verse=Exodus 31:6>Exodus 31:6</verse></h3>



And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan: and in
the hearts of all that are (c) wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have
commanded thee;



(c) I have instructed them, and increased their knowledge.
#BCV:Exodus 31:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 31:8>Exodus 31:8</verse></h3>



And the table and his furniture, and the (d) pure candlestick with all his furniture, and the altar of
incense,



(d) So called, because of the cunning and art used in them, or because the whole was beaten out of
the piece.
#BCV:Exodus 31:11
<h3><verse=Exodus 31:11>Exodus 31:11</verse></h3>



And the (e) anointing oil, and sweet incense for the holy [place]: according to all that I have
commanded thee shall they do.



(e) Which was only to anoint the Priests and the instruments of the tabernacle, not to burn.
#BCV:Exodus 31:13
<h3><verse=Exodus 31:13>Exodus 31:13</verse></h3>



Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, (f) Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it [is] a
sign between me and you throughout your generations; that [ye] may know that I [am] the LORD
that doth sanctify you.

<page=192>(f) Though I command that these works be done, yet I do not want you to break my Sabbath days.
#BCV:Exodus 31:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 31:14>Exodus 31:14</verse></h3>



Ye shall keep the (g) sabbath therefore; for it [is] holy unto you: every one that defileth it shall surely
be put to death: for whosoever doeth [any] work therein, that soul shall be cut off from among his
people.



(g) God repeats this point because the whole keeping of the law stands in the true use of the
sabbath, which is to stop working and so obey the will of God.
#BCV:Exodus 31:17
<h3><verse=Exodus 31:17>Exodus 31:17</verse></h3>



It [is] a sign between me and the children of Israel for ever: for [in] six days the LORD made heaven
and earth, and on the seventh day he (h) rested, and was refreshed.



(h) From creating his creatures, but not from governing and preserving them.
#BCV:Exodus 31:18
<h3><verse=Exodus 31:18>Exodus 31:18</verse></h3>



And he gave unto Moses, when he had made an end of communing with him upon mount Sinai,
two tables (i) of testimony, tables of stone, written with the finger of God.



(i) By which he declared his will to his people.

<h2>Exodus 32</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 32:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 32:1>Exodus 32:1</verse></h3>

<page=193>And when the people saw that Moses delayed to come down out of the mount, the people gathered
themselves together unto
Aaron, and said unto him, Up, (a) make us gods, which shall go before us; for [as for] this Moses, the
man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him.



(a) The root of Idolatry is when men think that God is not present, unless they see him physically.
#BCV:Exodus 32:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 32:2>Exodus 32:2</verse></h3>



And Aaron said unto them, (b) Break off the golden earrings, which [are] in the ears of your wives,
of your sons, and of your daughters, and bring [them] unto me.



(b) Thinking that they would rather abandon idolatry, than give up their most precious jewels.
#BCV:Exodus 32:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 32:3>Exodus 32:3</verse></h3>



And all the people brake off the (c) golden earrings which [were] in their ears, and brought [them]
unto Aaron.



(c) Such is the rage of idolaters, that they spare no cost to satisfy their wicked desires.
#BCV:Exodus 32:4
<h3><verse=Exodus 32:4>Exodus 32:4</verse></h3>



And he received [them] at their hand, and fashioned it with a graving tool, after he had made it a (d)
molten calf: and they said, These [be] thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of
Egypt.



(d) They remembered the sins of Egypt, where they saw calves, oxen and serpents worshipped.
#BCV:Exodus 32:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 32:8>Exodus 32:8</verse></h3>



They (e) have turned aside quickly out of the way which I commanded them: they have made them a
molten calf, and have worshipped it, and have sacrificed thereunto, and said, These [be] thy gods, O
Israel, which have brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.



(e) By which we see the need we have to pray earnestly to God, to keep us in his true obedience, and
to send us good guides.
#BCV:Exodus 32:10
<h3><verse=Exodus 32:10>Exodus 32:10</verse></h3>

<page=194>Now (f) therefore let me alone, that my wrath may wax hot against them, and that I may consume
them: and I will make of thee a great nation.



(f) God shows that the prayers of the godly hold back his punishment.
#BCV:Exodus 32:13
<h3><verse=Exodus 32:13>Exodus 32:13</verse></h3>



Remember (g) Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, thy servants, to whom thou swarest by thine own self, and
saidst unto them, I will multiply your seed as the stars of heaven, and all this land that I have spoken
of will I give unto your seed, and they shall inherit [it] for ever.



(g) That is, your promise made to Abraham.
#BCV:Exodus 32:16
<h3><verse=Exodus 32:16>Exodus 32:16</verse></h3>



And the tables [were] the work of God, and (h) the writing [was] the writing of God, graven upon
the tables.



(h) All these repetitions show how excellent a thing they defrauded themselves of by their idolatry.
#BCV:Exodus 32:20
<h3><verse=Exodus 32:20>Exodus 32:20</verse></h3>



And he took the calf which they had made, and burnt [it] in the fire, and ground [it] to powder, and
strawed [it] upon the water, and made the children of Israel (i) drink [of it].



(i) Partly to despise them for their idolatry, and partly so they would have no opportunity to
remember the calf later.
#BCV:Exodus 32:25
<h3><verse=Exodus 32:25>Exodus 32:25</verse></h3>



And when Moses saw that the people [were] (k) naked; (for Aaron had made them naked unto [their]
shame among their enemies:)



(k) Both destitute of God's favour, and an occasion for their enemies to speak evil of their God.
#BCV:Exodus 32:27
<h3><verse=Exodus 32:27>Exodus 32:27</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Put every man his sword by his side,
[and] go in and out from gate to gate throughout the camp, and (l) slay every man his brother, and
every man his companion, and every man his neighbour.



(l) This fact did so please God, that he turned the curse of Jacob against Levi to a blessing, 
(<bcv=Deu 33:9>Deu 33:9).</bcv>

#BCV:Exodus 32:29
<h3><verse=Exodus 32:29>Exodus 32:29</verse></h3>

#BCV:exo 32:29
<h3><verse=exo 32:29>exo 32:29</verse></h3>



and upon his brother; that he may bestow upon you a blessing this day.



(m) In revenging God's glory we must have no partiality to person, but lay aside all carnal affection.
#BCV:Exodus 32:32
<h3><verse=Exodus 32:32>Exodus 32:32</verse></h3>



Yet now, if thou wilt forgive their sin--; and if not, blot me, I pray thee, (n) out of thy book which
thou hast written.



(n) He esteemed the glory of God so much, that he preferred it even to his own salvation.
#BCV:Exodus 32:33
<h3><verse=Exodus 32:33>Exodus 32:33</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, him will I blot out of my (o)
book.



(o) I will make it known that he was never predestined in my eternal counsel to life everlasting.
#BCV:Exodus 32:34
<h3><verse=Exodus 32:34>Exodus 32:34</verse></h3>




(p) Therefore now go, lead the people unto [the place] of which I have spoken unto thee: behold,
mine Angel shall go before thee: nevertheless in the day when I visit I will visit their sin upon them.



(p) This demonstrates how grievous a sin idolatry is, seeing that at Moses prayer God would not
fully remit it.

<h2>Exodus 33</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 33:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 33:1>Exodus 33:1</verse></h3>

<page=196>And the LORD said unto Moses, Depart, [and] (a) go up hence, thou and the people which thou
hast brought up out of the land of Egypt, unto the land which I sware unto Abraham, to Isaac, and
to Jacob, saying, Unto thy seed will I give it:



(a) The land of Canaan was surrounded by hills: so those who entered it, must go up by the hills.
#BCV:Exodus 33:5
<h3><verse=Exodus 33:5>Exodus 33:5</verse></h3>



For the LORD had said unto Moses, Say unto the children of Israel, Ye [are] a stiffnecked people: I
will come up into the midst of thee in a moment, and consume thee: therefore now put off thy
ornaments from thee, that I may know (b) what to do unto thee.



(b) That I may either show mercy if you repent, or else punish your rebellion.
#BCV:Exodus 33:7
<h3><verse=Exodus 33:7>Exodus 33:7</verse></h3>



And Moses took the tabernacle, and pitched it without the camp, afar off from the camp, and called
it the (c) Tabernacle of the congregation. And it came to pass, [that] every one which sought the
LORD went out unto the tabernacle of the congregation, which [was] without the camp.



(c) That is, the tabernacle of the congregation: so called because the people turned to it, when they
needed to be instructed of the Lord's will.
#BCV:Exodus 33:11
<h3><verse=Exodus 33:11>Exodus 33:11</verse></h3>



And the LORD spake unto Moses (d) face to face, as a man speaketh unto his friend. And he turned
again into the camp: but his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, departed not out of the
tabernacle.



(d) Most clearly and familiarly of all others, (<bcv=Num 12:7-8>Num 12:7-8</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 34:10> Deu 34:10</bcv>)
#BCV:Exodus 33:12
<h3><verse=Exodus 33:12>Exodus 33:12</verse></h3>



And Moses said unto the LORD, See, thou sayest unto me, Bring up this people: and thou hast not
let me know whom thou wilt send with me. Yet thou hast said, I know thee by (e) name, and thou
hast also found grace in my sight.



(e) I care for you and will preserve you in your calling.
#BCV:Exodus 33:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 33:14>Exodus 33:14</verse></h3>

#BCV:exo 33:14
<h3><verse=exo 33:14>exo 33:14</verse></h3>




(f) Signifying that the Israelites would exceed all other people, through God's favour; (<bcv=Exo 33:16>Exo 33:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 33:18
<h3><verse=Exodus 33:18>Exodus 33:18</verse></h3>



And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy (g) glory.



(g) Your face, your substance, and your majesty.
#BCV:Exodus 33:19
<h3><verse=Exodus 33:19>Exodus 33:19</verse></h3>



And he said, I will make all my (h) goodness pass before thee, and I will (i) proclaim the name of the
LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew (k) mercy on
whom I will shew mercy.



(h) My mercy and fatherly care.



(i) See (<bcv=Exo 34:6-7>Exo 34:6-7</bcv>).



(k) For finding nothing in man that deserves mercy, he will freely give his.
#BCV:Exodus 33:20
<h3><verse=Exodus 33:20>Exodus 33:20</verse></h3>



And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and (l) live.



(l) For Moses did not see his face in full majesty, but as man's weakness could bear.
#BCV:Exodus 33:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 33:21>Exodus 33:21</verse></h3>



And the LORD said, Behold, [there is] a place by (m) me, and thou shalt stand upon a rock:



(m) In mount Horeb.
#BCV:Exodus 33:23
<h3><verse=Exodus 33:23>Exodus 33:23</verse></h3>



And I will take away mine hand, and thou shalt see my (n) back parts: but my face shall not be seen.



(n) As much of my glory as in this mortal life you are able to see.

<h2>Exodus 34</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 34:6
<h3><verse=Exodus 34:6>Exodus 34:6</verse></h3>

<page=198>And the LORD passed by before him, and (a) proclaimed, The LORD, The LORD God, merciful
and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth,



(a) This refers to the Lord, and not to Moses proclaiming: as (<bcv=Exo 33:19>Exo 33:19</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 34:9
<h3><verse=Exodus 34:9>Exodus 34:9</verse></h3>



And he said, If now I have found grace in thy sight, O Lord, let my Lord, I pray thee, go among us;



(b) for it [is] a stiffnecked people; and pardon our iniquity and our sin, and take us for thine
inheritance.



(b) Seeing the people are of this nature, the rulers need to call on God that he would always be
present with his Spirit.
#BCV:Exodus 34:12
<h3><verse=Exodus 34:12>Exodus 34:12</verse></h3>



Take heed to thyself, lest thou make a covenant with the inhabitants of the land whither thou goest,
lest it be for a (c) snare in the midst of thee:



(c) If you follow their wickedness, and pollute yourself with their idolatry.
#BCV:Exodus 34:13
<h3><verse=Exodus 34:13>Exodus 34:13</verse></h3>



But ye shall destroy their altars, break their images, and cut down their (d) groves:



(d) Which pleasant places they chose for their idols.
#BCV:Exodus 34:17
<h3><verse=Exodus 34:17>Exodus 34:17</verse></h3>



Thou shalt make thee no (e) molten gods.



(e) As gold, silver, brass, or anything that is molten: in this is condemned all types idols, no matter
what they are made of.
#BCV:Exodus 34:20
<h3><verse=Exodus 34:20>Exodus 34:20</verse></h3>



But the firstling of an ass thou shalt redeem with a lamb: and if thou redeem [him] not, then shalt
thou break his neck. All the firstborn of thy sons thou shalt redeem. And none shall appear before
me (f) empty.

<page=199>(f) Without offering something.
#BCV:Exodus 34:22
<h3><verse=Exodus 34:22>Exodus 34:22</verse></h3>



And thou shalt observe the feast of weeks, of the firstfruits of wheat harvest, and the feast of
ingathering (g) at the year's end.



(g) Which was in September, when the days got shorter, that is, the end of their calendar year.
#BCV:Exodus 34:24
<h3><verse=Exodus 34:24>Exodus 34:24</verse></h3>



For I will cast out the nations before thee, and enlarge thy borders: neither shall any man (h) desire
thy land, when thou shalt go up to appear before the LORD thy God thrice in the year.



(h) God promises to defend them and theirs, who obey his commandment.
#BCV:Exodus 34:26
<h3><verse=Exodus 34:26>Exodus 34:26</verse></h3>



The first of the firstfruits of thy land thou shalt bring unto the house of the LORD thy God. Thou
shalt not (i) seethe a kid in his mother's milk.



(i) See (<bcv=Exo 23:19>Exo 23:19</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 14:21> Deu 14:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 34:28
<h3><verse=Exodus 34:28>Exodus 34:28</verse></h3>



And he was there with the LORD (k) forty days and forty nights; he did neither eat bread, nor drink
water. And he wrote upon the tables the words of the covenant, the ten commandments.



(k) This miracle was to confirm the authority of the law, and should not be followed any more than
other miracles.
#BCV:Exodus 34:34
<h3><verse=Exodus 34:34>Exodus 34:34</verse></h3>



But when Moses went in (m) before the LORD to speak with him, he took the vail off, until he
came out. And he came out, and spake unto the children of Israel [that] which he was commanded.



(m) Which was in the tabernacle of the congregation.

<h2>Exodus 35</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 35:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 35:2>Exodus 35:2</verse></h3>

<page=200>Six days shall work be done, but on the seventh day there shall be to you an holy (a) day, a sabbath
of rest to the LORD: whosoever doeth work therein shall be put to death.



(a) In which you shall rest from all bodily work.
#BCV:Exodus 35:10
<h3><verse=Exodus 35:10>Exodus 35:10</verse></h3>



And every wise (b) hearted among you shall come, and make all that the LORD hath commanded;



(b) See (<bcv=Exo 28:3>Exo 28:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 35:12
<h3><verse=Exodus 35:12>Exodus 35:12</verse></h3>



The ark, and the staves thereof, [with] the mercy seat, and the vail of the (c) covering,



(c) Which hung before the mercyseat so it could not be seen.
#BCV:Exodus 35:19
<h3><verse=Exodus 35:19>Exodus 35:19</verse></h3>



The (d) cloths of service, to do service in the holy [place], the holy garments for Aaron the priest,
and the garments of his sons, to minister in the priest's office.



(d) Such as belong to the service of the tabernacle.
#BCV:Exodus 35:25
<h3><verse=Exodus 35:25>Exodus 35:25</verse></h3>



And all the women that were (e) wise hearted did spin with their hands, and brought that which they
had spun, [both] of blue, and of purple, [and] of scarlet, and of fine linen.



(e) Who were witty and expert.
#BCV:Exodus 35:26
<h3><verse=Exodus 35:26>Exodus 35:26</verse></h3>



And all the women (f) whose heart stirred them up in wisdom spun goats' [hair].



(f) That is, who were good spinners.
#BCV:Exodus 35:29
<h3><verse=Exodus 35:29>Exodus 35:29</verse></h3>

<page=201>The children of Israel brought a willing offering unto the LORD, every man and woman, whose
heart made them willing to bring for all manner of work, which the LORD had commanded to be
made (g) by the hand of Moses.



(g) Using Moses as a minister of it.
#BCV:Exodus 35:35
<h3><verse=Exodus 35:35>Exodus 35:35</verse></h3>



Them hath he filled with wisdom of heart, to work all manner (h) of work, of the engraver, and of
the cunning workman, and of the embroiderer, in blue, and in purple, in scarlet, and in fine linen,
and of the weaver, [even] of them that do any work, and of those that devise cunning work.



(h) Belonging to graving or carving, or such like.

<h2>Exodus 36</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 36:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 36:1>Exodus 36:1</verse></h3>

<page=202>Then wrought Bezaleel and Aholiab, and every wise hearted man, in whom the LORD put wisdom
and understanding to know how to work all manner of work for the service of the (a) sanctuary,
according to all that the LORD had commanded.



(a) By the sanctuary he means all the tabernacle.
#BCV:Exodus 36:3
<h3><verse=Exodus 36:3>Exodus 36:3</verse></h3>



And they received of Moses all the offering, which the children of Israel had brought for the work
of the service of the sanctuary, to make it [withal]. And (b) they brought yet unto him free offerings
every morning.



(b) Meaning, the Israelites.
#BCV:Exodus 36:5
<h3><verse=Exodus 36:5>Exodus 36:5</verse></h3>



And they spake unto Moses, saying, The people bring (c) much more than enough for the service of
the work, which the LORD commanded to make.



(c) A rare example and notable to see the people so ready to serve God with their goods.
#BCV:Exodus 36:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 36:8>Exodus 36:8</verse></h3>



And every wise hearted man among them that wrought the work of the tabernacle made ten
curtains [of] fine twined linen, and blue, and purple, and scarlet: [with] (d) cherubims of cunning
work made he them.



(d) Which were little pictures with wings in the form of children.
#BCV:Exodus 36:19
<h3><verse=Exodus 36:19>Exodus 36:19</verse></h3>



And he made a (e) covering for the tent [of] rams' skins dyed red, and a covering [of] badgers' skins
above [that].



(e) These two were above the covering of goat's hair.
#BCV:Exodus 36:20
<h3><verse=Exodus 36:20>Exodus 36:20</verse></h3>



And he made boards for the tabernacle [of] shittim wood, (f) standing up.

<page=203>(f) And to bear up the curtains of the tabernacle.
#BCV:Exodus 36:27
<h3><verse=Exodus 36:27>Exodus 36:27</verse></h3>



And for the sides of the tabernacle (g) westward he made six boards.



(g) Or, toward the Mediterranean Sea, west of Jerusalem,
#BCV:Exodus 36:35
<h3><verse=Exodus 36:35>Exodus 36:35</verse></h3>



And he made a (h) vail [of] blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen: [with] cherubims
made he it of cunning work.



(h) Which was between the sanctuary and the holiest of holies.
#BCV:Exodus 36:37
<h3><verse=Exodus 36:37>Exodus 36:37</verse></h3>



And he made an (i) hanging for the tabernacle door [of] blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine
twined linen, of needlework;



(i) Which was between the court and the sanctuary.

<h2>Exodus 37</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 37:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 37:2>Exodus 37:2</verse></h3>

<page=204>And he overlaid it with pure gold within and without, and made a (a) crown of gold to it round
about.



(a) Like battlements.
#BCV:Exodus 37:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 37:8>Exodus 37:8</verse></h3>



One cherub on the end on this side, and another cherub on the [other] end on that side: out (b) of
the mercy seat made he the cherubims on the two ends thereof.



(b) Of the same material that the mercyseat was.
#BCV:Exodus 37:24
<h3><verse=Exodus 37:24>Exodus 37:24</verse></h3>



[Of] a (c) talent of pure gold made he it, and all the vessels thereof.



(c) See (<bcv=Exo 25:39>Exo 25:39</bcv>).

<h2>Exodus 38</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 38:4
<h3><verse=Exodus 38:4>Exodus 38:4</verse></h3>

<page=205>And he made for the altar a brasen grate of network under the compass thereof beneath unto the (a)
midst of it.



(a) So that the gridiron or grate was half as high as the altar and stood within it.
#BCV:Exodus 38:8
<h3><verse=Exodus 38:8>Exodus 38:8</verse></h3>



And he made the laver [of] brass, and the foot of it [of] brass, of the (b) lookingglasses of [the
women] assembling, which assembled [at] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.



(b) R. Kimbi says that the women brought their looking glasses, which were of brass or fine metal,
and offered them freely for the use of the tabernacle: which was a bright thing and of great majesty.
#BCV:Exodus 38:21
<h3><verse=Exodus 38:21>Exodus 38:21</verse></h3>



This is the sum of the tabernacle, [even] of the tabernacle of testimony, as it was counted, according
to the commandment of Moses, [for] the service of the (c) Levites, by the hand of Ithamar, son to
Aaron the priest.



(c) That the Levites might be in charge of it, and minister in the same, as did Eleazar and Ithamar,



(<bcv=Num 3:4>Num 3:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 38:23
<h3><verse=Exodus 38:23>Exodus 38:23</verse></h3>



And with him [was] Aholiab, son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, an engraver, and a (d) cunning
workman, and an embroiderer in blue, and in purple, and in scarlet, and fine linen.



(d) Or, a graver, or carpenter, (<bcv=Exo 36:4>Exo 36:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 38:29
<h3><verse=Exodus 38:29>Exodus 38:29</verse></h3>



And the brass of the offering [was] seventy (e) talents, and two thousand and four hundred shekels.



(e) Read the weight of a talent, (<bcv=Exo 25:39>Exo 25:39</bcv>).

<h2>Exodus 39</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 39:1
<h3><verse=Exodus 39:1>Exodus 39:1</verse></h3>

<page=206>And of the blue, and purple, and scarlet, they made (a) cloths of service, to do service in the holy
[place], and made the holy garments for Aaron; as the LORD commanded Moses.


(a) As coverings for the ark, the candlestick, the altars and such like.
#BCV:Exodus 39:6
<h3><verse=Exodus 39:6>Exodus 39:6</verse></h3>



And they wrought onyx stones inclosed in ouches of gold, graven, as (b) signets are graven, with the
names of the children of Israel.



(b) That is, of very fine and curious workmanship.
#BCV:Exodus 39:12
<h3><verse=Exodus 39:12>Exodus 39:12</verse></h3>



And the third row, (c) a ligure, an agate, and an amethyst.



(c) Or, a turkeis, a stone which the authors write comes from the urine of the Lynx.
#BCV:Exodus 39:14
<h3><verse=Exodus 39:14>Exodus 39:14</verse></h3>



And the stones [were] according to the names of the children of Israel, twelve, (d) according to their
names, [like] the engravings of a signet, every one with his name, according to the twelve tribes.



(d) That is, every tribe had his name written on a stone.
#BCV:Exodus 39:22
<h3><verse=Exodus 39:22>Exodus 39:22</verse></h3>



And he made the robe of the (e) ephod [of] woven work, all [of] blue.



(e) Which was next under the Ephod.
#BCV:Exodus 39:23
<h3><verse=Exodus 39:23>Exodus 39:23</verse></h3>



And (f) [there was] an hole in the midst of the robe, as the hole of an habergeon, [with] a band
round about the hole, that it should not rend.



(f) Where he could put his head through.
#BCV:Exodus 39:34
<h3><verse=Exodus 39:34>Exodus 39:34</verse></h3>

<page=207>And the covering of rams' skins dyed red, and the covering of badgers' skins, and the (g) vail of the
covering,



(g) So called, because it hung before the mercyseat and covered it from sight (<bcv=Exo 35:12>Exo 35:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 39:37
<h3><verse=Exodus 39:37>Exodus 39:37</verse></h3>



The pure candlestick, [with] the lamps thereof, [even with] the lamps to be (h) set in order, and all
the vessels thereof, and the oil for light,



(h) Or, which Aaron dressed and refreshed with oil every morning (<bcv=Exo 30:7>Exo 30:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 39:42
<h3><verse=Exodus 39:42>Exodus 39:42</verse></h3>



According to all that the LORD (i) commanded Moses, so the children of Israel made all the work.



(i) Signifying that in God's matters man may neither add, nor diminish.
#BCV:Exodus 39:43
<h3><verse=Exodus 39:43>Exodus 39:43</verse></h3>



And Moses did look upon all the work, and, behold, they had done it as the LORD had commanded,
even so had they done it: and Moses (k) blessed them.



(k) Praised God for the peoples diligence and prayed for them.

<h2>Exodus 40</h2>

#BCV:Exodus 40:2
<h3><verse=Exodus 40:2>Exodus 40:2</verse></h3>

<page=208>On the (a) first day of the first month shalt thou set up the tabernacle of the tent of the
congregation.



(a) After that Moses had been 40 days and 40 nights in the mountain, that is, from the beginning of
August to the tenth of September, he came down, and caused this work to be done: which when
finished, was set up in Abib, half March and half April.
#BCV:Exodus 40:5
<h3><verse=Exodus 40:5>Exodus 40:5</verse></h3>



And thou shalt set the altar (b) of gold for the incense before the ark of the testimony, and put the



(c) hanging of the door to the tabernacle.



(b) That is, the altar of perfume, or to burn incense on.



(c) This hanging or veil was between the sanctuary and the court.
#BCV:Exodus 40:15
<h3><verse=Exodus 40:15>Exodus 40:15</verse></h3>



And thou shalt anoint them, as thou didst anoint their father, that they may minister unto me in the
priest's office: for their anointing (d) shall surely be an everlasting priesthood throughout their
generations.



(d) Till both the priesthood and the ceremonies should end, which is at Christ's coming.
#BCV:Exodus 40:17
<h3><verse=Exodus 40:17>Exodus 40:17</verse></h3>



And it came to pass in the first month in (e) the second year, on the first [day] of the month, [that]
the tabernacle was reared up.



(e) After they came out of Egypt, (<bcv=Num 7:1>Num 7:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 40:20
<h3><verse=Exodus 40:20>Exodus 40:20</verse></h3>



And he took and put the (f) testimony into the ark, and set the staves on the ark, and put the mercy
seat above upon the ark:



(f) That is, the tables of the law; (<bcv=Exo 31:18>Exo 31:18</bcv>,<bcv=Exo 34:29> Exo 34:29</bcv>).
#BCV:Exodus 40:28
<h3><verse=Exodus 40:28>Exodus 40:28</verse></h3>

<page=209>And he set up the hanging [at] the (g) door of the tabernacle.



(g) Between the sanctuary and the court.
#BCV:Exodus 40:38
<h3><verse=Exodus 40:38>Exodus 40:38</verse></h3>



For (h) the cloud of the LORD [was] upon the tabernacle by day, and fire was on it by night, in the
sight of all the house of Israel, throughout all their journeys.



(h) Thus the presence of God preserved and guided them night and day, till they came to the land
promised.

<h1>Leviticus</h1>


<h2>Leviticus 1</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 1:1
<h3><verse=Leviticus 1:1>Leviticus 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=211>And the (a) LORD called unto Moses, and spake unto him out of the tabernacle of the
congregation, saying,



The Argument - As God daily by most singular benefits declared himself mindful of his Church: he
did not want them to have opportunity to trust either in themselves, or to depend on others, either
for lack of physical things, or anything that belonged to his divine service and religion. Therefore he
ordained various kinds of duties and sacrifices, to assure them of forgiveness for their offences (if
they offered them in true faith and obedience.) Also he appointed the priests and levites, their
apparel, offices, conversation and portion; he showed what feasts they should observe, and when.
Moreover, he declares by these sacrifices and ceremonies that the reward of sin is death, and that
without the blood of Christ the innocent Lamb, there can be no forgiveness of sins. Because they
should not give priority to their own inventions (which God detested, as appears by the terrible
example of Nadab and Abihu) he prescribed even to the least things, what they should do, what
beasts they should offer and eat, what diseases were contagious and to be avoided, how they should
purge all types of filthiness and pollution, whose company they should flee, what marriages were
lawful, and what customs were profitable. After declaring these things, he promised favour and
blessing to those who keep his laws, and threatened his curse to those who transgressed them.



(a) By this Moses declares that he taught nothing to the people but that which he received from God.
#BCV:Leviticus 1:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 1:2>Leviticus 1:2</verse></h3>



Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, If any man of you bring an offering unto the
LORD, ye shall bring your offering of the (b) cattle, [even] of the herd, and of the flock.



(b) So they could offer of no other sort, but of those who were commanded.
#BCV:Leviticus 1:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 1:3>Leviticus 1:3</verse></h3>



If his offering [be] a burnt sacrifice of the herd, let him offer a male without blemish: he shall offer
it of his own voluntary will at the door of the (c) tabernacle of the congregation before the LORD.



(c) Meaning, within the court of the tabernacle.
#BCV:Leviticus 1:5
<h3><verse=Leviticus 1:5>Leviticus 1:5</verse></h3>

<page=212>And (d) he shall kill the bullock before the LORD: and the priests, Aaron's sons, shall bring the
blood, and sprinkle the blood round about upon the (e) altar that [is by] the door of the tabernacle
of the congregation.



(d) A priest of the Levites.



(e) Of the burnt offering, (<bcv=Exo 27:1>Exo 27:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 1:9
<h3><verse=Leviticus 1:9>Leviticus 1:9</verse></h3>



But his inwards and his legs shall he wash in water: and the priest shall burn all on the altar, [to be] a
burnt sacrifice, an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour (f) unto the LORD.



(f) Or a savour of rest, which pacifies the anger of the Lord.
#BCV:Leviticus 1:11
<h3><verse=Leviticus 1:11>Leviticus 1:11</verse></h3>




(g) And he shall kill it on the side of the altar northward (h) before the LORD: and the priests,
Aaron's sons, shall sprinkle his blood round about upon the altar.



(g) Read (<bcv=Lev 1:5>Lev 1:5</bcv>).



(h) Before the altar of the Lord.
#BCV:Leviticus 1:15
<h3><verse=Leviticus 1:15>Leviticus 1:15</verse></h3>



And the priest shall bring it unto the altar, and (i) wring off his head, and burn [it] on the altar; and
the blood thereof shall be wrung out at the side of the altar:



(i) The Hebrew word signifies to pinch off with the nail.

#BCV:Leviticus 1:16
<h3><verse=Leviticus 1:16>Leviticus 1:16</verse></h3>



And he shall pluck away his crop with his feathers, and cast it beside the altar on the (k) east part, by
the place of the ashes:



(k) On the side of the court gate in the pans which stood with ashes; (<bcv=Exo 27:3>Exo 27:3</bcv>).

<h2>Leviticus 2</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 2:1
<h3><verse=Leviticus 2:1>Leviticus 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=213>And when any will offer a (a) meat offering unto the LORD, his offering shall be [of] fine flour; and
he shall pour oil upon it, and put frankincense thereon:



(a) Because the burnt offering could not be without the meat offering.
#BCV:Leviticus 2:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 2:2>Leviticus 2:2</verse></h3>



And he shall bring it to Aaron's sons the priests: and (b) he shall take thereout his handful of the
flour thereof, and of the oil thereof, with all the frankincense thereof; and the priest shall burn the (c)
memorial of it upon the altar, [to be] an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD:



(b) The priest.



(c) To signify that God remembers him that offers.
#BCV:Leviticus 2:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 2:3>Leviticus 2:3</verse></h3>



And the remnant of the meat offering [shall be] Aaron's and his sons': [it is] a thing (d) most holy of
the offerings of the LORD made by fire.



(d) Therefore no one could eat of it but the priest.
#BCV:Leviticus 2:5
<h3><verse=Leviticus 2:5>Leviticus 2:5</verse></h3>



And if thy oblation [be] a (e) meat offering [baken] in a pan, it shall be [of] fine flour unleavened,
mingled with oil.



(e) Which is a gift offered to God to pacify him.
#BCV:Leviticus 2:12
<h3><verse=Leviticus 2:12>Leviticus 2:12</verse></h3>



As for the oblation of the firstfruits, ye shall offer (f) them unto the LORD: but they shall not be
burnt (g) on the altar for a sweet savour.



(f) That is, fruits which were sweet as honey, ye may offer.



(g) But reserved for the priests.
#BCV:Leviticus 2:13
<h3><verse=Leviticus 2:13>Leviticus 2:13</verse></h3>

<page=214>And every oblation of thy meat offering shalt thou season with salt; neither shalt thou suffer the salt
of the (h) covenant of thy God to be lacking from thy meat offering: with all thine offerings thou
shalt offer salt.



(h) Which they were bound (as by covenant) to use all sacrifices, (<bcv=Num 18:19>Num 18:19</bcv>; <bcv=2Ch 13:5>Ch2 13:5</bcv>; <bcv=Ezek 43:24>Eze 43:24</bcv>) or
it means a sure and pure covenant.

<h2>Leviticus 3</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 3:1
<h3><verse=Leviticus 3:1>Leviticus 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=215>And if his oblation [be] a sacrifice of (a) peace offering, if he offer [it] of the herd; whether [it be] a
male or female, he shall offer it without blemish before the LORD.



(a) A sacrifice of thanksgiving offered for peace and prosperity, either generally or particularly.
#BCV:Leviticus 3:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 3:3>Leviticus 3:3</verse></h3>



And he shall (b) offer of the sacrifice of the peace offering an offering made by fire unto the LORD;
the fat that covereth the inwards, and all the fat that [is] upon the inwards,



(b) One part was burnt, another was to the priests, and the third to him that offered.
#BCV:Leviticus 3:6
<h3><verse=Leviticus 3:6>Leviticus 3:6</verse></h3>



And if his offering for a sacrifice of peace offering unto the LORD [be] of the flock; (c) male or
female, he shall offer it without blemish.



(c) In the peace offering either male or female could be offered, but in the burnt offering only the
male: so here no birds can be offered, but in the burnt offering they might: there all was consumed
with fire, and in the peace offering divided.
#BCV:Leviticus 3:9
<h3><verse=Leviticus 3:9>Leviticus 3:9</verse></h3>



And he shall offer of the sacrifice of the peace offering (d) an offering made by fire unto the LORD;
the fat thereof, [and] the whole rump, it shall he take off hard by the backbone; and the fat that
covereth the inwards, and all the fat that [is] upon the inwards,



(d) The burnt offering was completely consumed, and of the offering made by fire only the inner
parts were burnt: the shoulder and breast, with the two jaws and the stomach were the priests, and
the rest his that offered.
#BCV:Leviticus 3:13
<h3><verse=Leviticus 3:13>Leviticus 3:13</verse></h3>



And he shall lay his hand upon the head of it, and kill it before (e) the tabernacle of the
congregation: and the sons of Aaron shall sprinkle the blood thereof upon the altar round about.



(e) Meaning, at the north side of the altar, (<bcv=Lev 1:1>Lev 1:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 3:17
<h3><verse=Leviticus 3:17>Leviticus 3:17</verse></h3>

<page=216>[It shall be] a perpetual statute for your generations throughout all your dwellings, that ye eat neither



(f) fat nor blood.



(f) Eating fat was a symbol of carnality, and eating blood signified cruelty.

<h2>Leviticus 4</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 4:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 4:2>Leviticus 4:2</verse></h3>

<page=217>Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If a soul shall sin through (a) ignorance against any of the
commandments of the LORD [concerning things] which ought not to be done, and shall do against
any of them:



(a) That is, of negligence or ignorance, especially in the ceremonial law: for otherwise the
punishment for a crime is determined according to the transgression, (<bcv=Num 15:22>Num 15:22</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 4:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 4:3>Leviticus 4:3</verse></h3>



If (b) the priest that is anointed do sin according to the sin of the people; then let him bring for his
sin, which he hath sinned, a young bullock without blemish unto the LORD for a sin offering.



(b) Meaning, the high priest.
#BCV:Leviticus 4:4
<h3><verse=Leviticus 4:4>Leviticus 4:4</verse></h3>



And he shall bring the bullock unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation before the
LORD; and shall lay his hand upon the bullock's head, and (c) kill the bullock before the LORD.



(c) By this confessing that he deserved the same punishment which the beast suffered.
#BCV:Leviticus 4:6
<h3><verse=Leviticus 4:6>Leviticus 4:6</verse></h3>



And the priest shall dip his finger in the blood, and sprinkle of the blood seven times before the
LORD, before the vail of the (d) sanctuary.



(d) Which was between the holiest of holies and the sanctuary.
#BCV:Leviticus 4:7
<h3><verse=Leviticus 4:7>Leviticus 4:7</verse></h3>



And the priest shall put [some] of the blood upon the horns of the altar of sweet incense before the
LORD, which [is] in the (e) tabernacle of the congregation; and shall pour all the blood of the
bullock at the bottom of the altar of the burnt offering, which [is at] the door of the tabernacle of
the congregation.



(e) Which was in the court: meaning by the tabernacle the sanctuary: and in the end of this verse it is
taken for the court.
#BCV:Leviticus 4:13
<h3><verse=Leviticus 4:13>Leviticus 4:13</verse></h3>

<page=218>And if the (f) whole congregation of Israel sin through ignorance, and the thing be hid from the
eyes of the assembly, and they have done [somewhat against] any of the commandments of the
LORD [concerning things] which should not be done, and are guilty;



(f) The multitude does not excuse the sin, but if all have sinned, they must all be punished.
#BCV:Leviticus 4:15
<h3><verse=Leviticus 4:15>Leviticus 4:15</verse></h3>



And the (g) elders of the congregation shall lay their hands upon the head of the bullock before the
LORD: and the bullock shall be killed before the LORD.



(g) For all the people could not lay on their hands: therefore it was sufficient that the elders of the
people did it in the name of all the congregation.
#BCV:Leviticus 4:24
<h3><verse=Leviticus 4:24>Leviticus 4:24</verse></h3>



And he shall lay his hand upon the head of the goat, and kill it (h) in the place where they kill the
burnt offering before the LORD: it [is] a sin offering.



(h) That is, the priest shall kill it; for it was not lawful for any out of that office to kill the beast.
#BCV:Leviticus 4:26
<h3><verse=Leviticus 4:26>Leviticus 4:26</verse></h3>



And he shall burn all his fat upon the altar, as the fat of the sacrifice of peace offerings: and the
priest shall make (i) an atonement for him as concerning his sin, and it shall be forgiven him.



(i) In which he represented Jesus Christ.
#BCV:Leviticus 4:29
<h3><verse=Leviticus 4:29>Leviticus 4:29</verse></h3>




(k) And he shall lay his hand upon the head of the sin offering, and slay the sin offering in the place
of the burnt offering.



(k) Read (<bcv=Lev 4:24>Lev 4:24</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 4:33
<h3><verse=Leviticus 4:33>Leviticus 4:33</verse></h3>



And he shall lay his (l) hand upon the head of the sin offering, and slay it for a sin offering in the
place where they kill the burnt offering.



(l) Meaning that the punishment of his sin should be laid on the beast, or, that he had received all
things from God, and offered this willingly.
#BCV:Leviticus 4:35
<h3><verse=Leviticus 4:35>Leviticus 4:35</verse></h3>

#BCV:lev 4:35
<h3><verse=lev 4:35>lev 4:35</verse></h3>



the peace offerings; and the priest shall burn them upon the altar, (m) according to the offerings
made by fire unto the LORD: and the priest shall make an atonement for his sin that he hath
committed, and it shall be forgiven him.



(m) Or, besides the burnt offerings, which were daily offered to the Lord.

<h2>Leviticus 5</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 5:1
<h3><verse=Leviticus 5:1>Leviticus 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=220>And if a soul sin, and hear the voice of swearing, and [is] a witness, whether he hath seen or (a)
known [of it]; if he do not utter [it], then he shall bear his iniquity.



(a) By which it is commanded to bear witness to the truth, and disclose the iniquity of the ungodly.
#BCV:Leviticus 5:4
<h3><verse=Leviticus 5:4>Leviticus 5:4</verse></h3>



Or if a soul (b) swear, pronouncing with [his] lips to do evil, or to do good, whatsoever [it be] that a
man shall pronounce with an oath, and it be hid from him; when he knoweth [of it], then he shall be
guilty in one of these.



(b) Or, vow rashly without just examination of the circumstances, and not knowing what shall be the
issue of the same.
#BCV:Leviticus 5:5
<h3><verse=Leviticus 5:5>Leviticus 5:5</verse></h3>



And it shall be, when he shall be guilty in one of these (c) [things], that he shall confess that he hath
sinned in that [thing]:



(c) Which have been mentioned before in this chapter.
#BCV:Leviticus 5:10
<h3><verse=Leviticus 5:10>Leviticus 5:10</verse></h3>



And he shall offer the second [for] a burnt offering, according to the manner: and the priest shall (d)
make an atonement for him for his sin which he hath sinned, and it shall be forgiven him.



(d) Or, declare him to be purged of that sin.
#BCV:Leviticus 5:11
<h3><verse=Leviticus 5:11>Leviticus 5:11</verse></h3>



But if he be not able to bring two turtledoves, or two young pigeons, then he that sinned shall bring
for his offering the tenth part of an (e) ephah of fine flour for a sin offering; he shall put no (f) oil
upon it, neither shall he put [any] frankincense thereon: for it [is] a sin offering.



(e) Which was about a half gallon.



(f) As in the meat offering, (<bcv=Lev 2:1>Lev 2:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 5:15
<h3><verse=Leviticus 5:15>Leviticus 5:15</verse></h3>

<page=221>If a soul commit a trespass, and sin through ignorance, (g) in the holy things of the LORD; then he
shall bring for his trespass unto the LORD a ram without blemish out of the flocks, (h) with thy
estimation by shekels of silver, after the shekel of the sanctuary, for a trespass offering:



(g) Concerning the first fruits or tithes, due to the priests and Levites.



(h) By the estimation of the priest, (<bcv=Lev 27:12>Lev 27:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 5:17
<h3><verse=Leviticus 5:17>Leviticus 5:17</verse></h3>



And if a soul sin, and commit any of these things which are forbidden to be done by the
commandments of the LORD; though he wist [it] not, yet is he guilty, and shall (i) bear his iniquity.



(i) That is, remembers after that he has sinned when his conscience accuses him.
#BCV:Leviticus 5:18
<h3><verse=Leviticus 5:18>Leviticus 5:18</verse></h3>



And he shall bring a ram without blemish out of the flock, with thy estimation, for a trespass
offering, unto the priest: and the priest shall make an atonement for him concerning his (k)
ignorance wherein he erred and wist [it] not, and it shall be forgiven him.



(k) Else if his sin against God come of malice, he must die; (<bcv=Num 15:30>Num 15:30</bcv>).

<h2>Leviticus 6</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 6:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 6:2>Leviticus 6:2</verse></h3>

<page=222>If a soul sin, and commit a trespass against the LORD, and lie unto his neighbour in that which was
delivered him to keep, or in (a) fellowship, or in a thing taken away by (b) violence, or hath deceived
his neighbour;



(a) To give, and occupy for the use of him that gave it.



(b) By any deceit, or unlawful means.
#BCV:Leviticus 6:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 6:3>Leviticus 6:3</verse></h3>



Or have found that which was lost, and lieth concerning it, and sweareth falsely; in any of all these
that a man doeth, (c) sinning therein:



(c) In which he cannot but sin: or, in which a man accustoms to sin by perjury or such like thing.
#BCV:Leviticus 6:9
<h3><verse=Leviticus 6:9>Leviticus 6:9</verse></h3>



Command Aaron and his sons, saying, This [is] the (d) law of the burnt offering: It [is] the burnt
offering, because of the burning upon the altar all night unto the morning, and the fire of the altar
shall be burning in it.



(d) That is, the ceremony which ought to be observed in it.
#BCV:Leviticus 6:10
<h3><verse=Leviticus 6:10>Leviticus 6:10</verse></h3>



And the priest shall put on his linen garment, and his linen breeches shall he put upon (e) his flesh,
and take up the ashes which the fire hath consumed with the burnt offering on the altar, and he shall
put them beside the (f) altar.



(e) Upon his secret parts, (<bcv=Exo 28:42>Exo 28:42</bcv>).



(f) In the ash pans appointed for that use.
#BCV:Leviticus 6:17
<h3><verse=Leviticus 6:17>Leviticus 6:17</verse></h3>



It shall not be (g) baken with leaven. I have given it [unto them for] their portion of my offerings
made by fire; it [is] most holy, as [is] the sin offering, and as the trespass offering.



(g) Or, kneaded with leaven and baked.
#BCV:Leviticus 6:20
<h3><verse=Leviticus 6:20>Leviticus 6:20</verse></h3>

#BCV:lev 6:20
<h3><verse=lev 6:20>lev 6:20</verse></h3>



when he is anointed; the tenth part of an ephah of fine flour for a meat offering (h) perpetual, half
of it in the morning, and half thereof at night.



(h) So oft as the high priest shall be elected and anointed.
#BCV:Leviticus 6:22
<h3><verse=Leviticus 6:22>Leviticus 6:22</verse></h3>



And the priest of his sons that is (i) anointed in his stead shall offer it: [it is] a statute for ever unto
the LORD; it shall be wholly burnt.



(i) His son that shall succeed him.
#BCV:Leviticus 6:27
<h3><verse=Leviticus 6:27>Leviticus 6:27</verse></h3>



Whatsoever shall touch the flesh thereof shall be holy: and when there is sprinkled of the blood
thereof upon any (k) garment, thou shalt wash that whereon it was sprinkled in the holy place.



(k) Meaning, the garment of the priest.
#BCV:Leviticus 6:28
<h3><verse=Leviticus 6:28>Leviticus 6:28</verse></h3>



But the earthen vessel wherein it is sodden shall be broken: and if it be sodden in a brasen pot, it
shall be both scoured, and rinsed in (l) water.



(l) Which was in the laver, (<bcv=Exo 30:28>Exo 30:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 6:30
<h3><verse=Leviticus 6:30>Leviticus 6:30</verse></h3>



And no sin offering, whereof [any] of the blood is brought into the tabernacle of the congregation
to reconcile [withal] in the holy [place], shall be eaten: it shall be burnt in the (m) fire.



(m) Out of the camp (<bcv=Lev 4:12>Lev 4:12</bcv>).

<h2>Leviticus 7</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 7:1
<h3><verse=Leviticus 7:1>Leviticus 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=224>Likewise this [is] the law of the (a) trespass offering: it [is] most holy.

(a) Which is for the smaller sins, and such as are committed by ignorance.
#BCV:Leviticus 7:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 7:2>Leviticus 7:2</verse></h3>



In the place (b) where they kill the burnt offering shall they kill the trespass offering: and the blood
thereof shall he sprinkle round about upon the altar.



(b) At the court gate.
#BCV:Leviticus 7:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 7:3>Leviticus 7:3</verse></h3>



And (c) he shall offer of it all the fat thereof; the rump, and the fat that covereth the inwards,



(c) the high priest.
#BCV:Leviticus 7:7
<h3><verse=Leviticus 7:7>Leviticus 7:7</verse></h3>



As the sin offering [is], so [is] the trespass offering: [there is] one (d) law for them: the priest that
maketh atonement (e) therewith shall have [it].



(d) The same ceremonies, even though this word trespass signifies less then sin.



(e) Meaning, the rest which is left and not burnt.
#BCV:Leviticus 7:10
<h3><verse=Leviticus 7:10>Leviticus 7:10</verse></h3>



And every meat offering, mingled with oil, and (f) dry, shall all the sons of Aaron have, one [as
much] as another.



(f) Because it had no oil or liquor.
#BCV:Leviticus 7:12
<h3><verse=Leviticus 7:12>Leviticus 7:12</verse></h3>



If he offer it for a (g) thanksgiving, then he shall offer with the sacrifice of thanksgiving unleavened
cakes mingled with oil, and unleavened wafers anointed with oil, and cakes mingled with oil, of fine
flour, fried.



(g) Peace offerings contain a confession and thanksgiving for a benefit received, and also a vow, and
free offering to receive a benefit.
#BCV:Leviticus 7:16
<h3><verse=Leviticus 7:16>Leviticus 7:16</verse></h3>

<page=225>But if the sacrifice of his offering [be] a (h) vow, or a voluntary offering, it shall be eaten the same
day that he offereth his sacrifice: and on the morrow also the remainder of it shall be eaten:



(h) If he makes a vow to offer: or else the flesh of the peace offerings must be eaten the same day.
#BCV:Leviticus 7:18
<h3><verse=Leviticus 7:18>Leviticus 7:18</verse></h3>



And if [any] of the flesh of the sacrifice of his peace offerings be eaten at all on the third day, it
shall not be accepted, neither shall it be imputed unto him that offereth it: it shall be an abomination,
and the soul that eateth of it shall (i) bear his iniquity.



(i) The sin for which he offered shall remain.
#BCV:Leviticus 7:19
<h3><verse=Leviticus 7:19>Leviticus 7:19</verse></h3>



And the flesh that toucheth any unclean (k) [thing] shall not be eaten; it shall be burnt with fire: and



(l) as for the flesh, all that be clean shall eat thereof.



(k) After it is sacrificed.



(l) Of the peace offering that is clean.
#BCV:Leviticus 7:30
<h3><verse=Leviticus 7:30>Leviticus 7:30</verse></h3>



His own (m) hands shall bring the offerings of the LORD made by fire, the fat with the breast, it
shall he bring, that the breast may be waved [for] a wave offering before the LORD.



(m) And should not send it by another.
#BCV:Leviticus 7:35
<h3><verse=Leviticus 7:35>Leviticus 7:35</verse></h3>



This [is the portion] of the (n) anointing of Aaron, and of the anointing of his sons, out of the
offerings of the LORD made by fire, in the day [when] he presented them to minister unto the
LORD in the priest's office;



(n) that is, his privilege, reward and portion.
#BCV:Leviticus 7:37
<h3><verse=Leviticus 7:37>Leviticus 7:37</verse></h3>



This [is] the law of the burnt offering, of the meat offering, and of the sin offering, and of the
trespass offering, and of the (o) consecrations, and of the sacrifice of the peace offerings;

<page=226>(o) Which sacrifice was offered when the priests were consecrated, <bcv=Exo 29:22>(Exo 29:22).</bcv>

<h2>Leviticus 8</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 8:9
<h3><verse=Leviticus 8:9>Leviticus 8:9</verse></h3>

<page=227>And he put the mitre upon his head; also upon the mitre, [even] upon his forefront, did he put the
golden plate, the (a) holy crown; as the LORD commanded Moses.



(a) So called, because this superscription, "holiness to the Lord" was graven in it.
#BCV:Leviticus 8:10
<h3><verse=Leviticus 8:10>Leviticus 8:10</verse></h3>



And Moses took the anointing oil, and anointed the (b) tabernacle and all that [was] therein, and
sanctified them.



(b) That is, the holiest of holies, the sanctuary and the court.
#BCV:Leviticus 8:15
<h3><verse=Leviticus 8:15>Leviticus 8:15</verse></h3>



And he slew [it]; and Moses took the blood, and put [it] upon the horns of the (c) altar round about
with his finger, and purified the altar, and poured the blood at the bottom of the altar, and sanctified



(d) it, to make reconciliation upon it.



(c) Of the burnt offering.



(d) To offer for the sins of the people.
#BCV:Leviticus 8:17
<h3><verse=Leviticus 8:17>Leviticus 8:17</verse></h3>



But the bullock, and his (e) hide, his flesh, and his dung, he burnt with fire without the camp; as the
LORD commanded Moses.



(e) In other burnt offerings, which are not of consecration, or offering for himself, the priest has the
skin, (<bcv=Lev 7:8>Lev 7:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 8:23
<h3><verse=Leviticus 8:23>Leviticus 8:23</verse></h3>



And he (f) slew [it]; and Moses took of the blood of it, and put [it] upon the tip of Aaron's right ear,
and upon the thumb of his right hand, and upon the great toe of his right foot.



(f) Moses did this because the priests were not yet established in their office.
#BCV:Leviticus 8:31
<h3><verse=Leviticus 8:31>Leviticus 8:31</verse></h3>

<page=228>And Moses said unto Aaron and to his sons, Boil the flesh [at] the door of the (g) tabernacle of the
congregation: and there eat it with the bread that [is] in the basket of consecrations, as I
commanded, saying, Aaron and his sons shall eat it.



(g) At the door of the court.
#BCV:Leviticus 8:36
<h3><verse=Leviticus 8:36>Leviticus 8:36</verse></h3>



So Aaron and his sons did all things which the LORD commanded by the (h) hand of Moses.



(h) By commission given to Moses.

<h2>Leviticus 9</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 9:1
<h3><verse=Leviticus 9:1>Leviticus 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=229>And it came to pass on the (a) eighth day, [that] Moses called Aaron and his sons, and the elders of
Israel;



(a) After their consecration: for the seven days before, the priests were consecrated.
#BCV:Leviticus 9:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 9:2>Leviticus 9:2</verse></h3>



And he said unto Aaron, Take thee a young calf for a (b) sin offering, and a ram for a burnt offering,
without blemish, and offer [them] before the LORD.



(b) Aaron enters into the possession of the priesthood: and offers the four principal sacrifices, the
burnt offering, the sin offering, the peace offering, and the meat offering.
#BCV:Leviticus 9:5
<h3><verse=Leviticus 9:5>Leviticus 9:5</verse></h3>



And they brought [that] which Moses commanded before the tabernacle of the congregation: and
all the congregation drew near and stood before the (c) LORD.



(c) Before the altar where his glory appeared.
#BCV:Leviticus 9:7
<h3><verse=Leviticus 9:7>Leviticus 9:7</verse></h3>



And Moses said unto Aaron, Go unto the altar, and offer thy sin offering, and thy burnt offering,
and make an atonement for (d) thyself, and for the people: and offer the offering of the people, and
make an atonement for them; as the LORD commanded.



(d) Read for the understanding of this peace, (<bcv=Heb 4:5>Heb 4:5</bcv>,<bcv=Heb 7:27> Heb 7:27</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 9:10
<h3><verse=Leviticus 9:10>Leviticus 9:10</verse></h3>



But the fat, and the kidneys, and the caul above the liver of the sin offering, he (e) burnt upon the
altar; as the LORD commanded Moses.



(e) That is, he laid them in order, and so they were burnt when the Lord sent down fire.
#BCV:Leviticus 9:14
<h3><verse=Leviticus 9:14>Leviticus 9:14</verse></h3>



And he did wash the inwards and the legs, and (f) burnt [them] upon the burnt offering on the altar.



(f) All this must be understood of the preparation of the sacrifices which were burnt after, (<bcv=Lev 9:24>Lev 9:24</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 9:21
<h3><verse=Leviticus 9:21>Leviticus 9:21</verse></h3>

<page=230>And the (g) breasts and the right shoulder Aaron waved [for] a wave offering before the LORD; as
Moses commanded.



(g) Of the bullock and the ram.
#BCV:Leviticus 9:22
<h3><verse=Leviticus 9:22>Leviticus 9:22</verse></h3>



And Aaron lifted up his hand toward the people, and blessed them, and (h) came down from
offering of the sin offering, and the burnt offering, and peace offerings.



(h) Because the altar was near the sanctuary, which was the upper end, therefore he is said to come
down.
#BCV:Leviticus 9:23
<h3><verse=Leviticus 9:23>Leviticus 9:23</verse></h3>



And Moses and Aaron went into the tabernacle of the congregation, and came out, and (i) blessed
the people: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto all the people.



(i) Or prayed for the people.

<h2>Leviticus 10</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 10:1
<h3><verse=Leviticus 10:1>Leviticus 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=231>And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and
put incense thereon, and offered (a) strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not.



(a) Not taken from the altar, which was sent from heaven, and endured till the captivity of Babylon.
#BCV:Leviticus 10:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 10:3>Leviticus 10:3</verse></h3>



Then Moses said unto Aaron, This [is it] that the LORD spake, saying, I will be (b) sanctified in
them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified. And Aaron held his peace.



(b) I will punish them that serve me in other ways than I have commanded, not sparing the chief,
that the people may fear and praise my judgments.
#BCV:Leviticus 10:6
<h3><verse=Leviticus 10:6>Leviticus 10:6</verse></h3>



And Moses said unto Aaron, and unto Eleazar and unto Ithamar, his sons, (c) Uncover not your
heads, neither rend your clothes; lest ye die, and lest wrath come upon all the people: but let your
brethren, the whole house of Israel, bewail the burning which the LORD hath (d) kindled.



(c) As though you lamented for them, preferring your carnal affection to God's just judgment; <bcv=Lev 19:18>(Lev 19:18;</bcv><bcv=Deu 14:1> Deu 14:1</bcv>).



(d) In destroying Nadab and Abihu the chief, and menacing the rest, unless they repent.
#BCV:Leviticus 10:14
<h3><verse=Leviticus 10:14>Leviticus 10:14</verse></h3>



And the wave breast and heave shoulder shall ye eat in a clean place; thou, and thy sons, and thy (e)
daughters with thee: for [they be] thy due, and thy sons' due, [which] are given out of the sacrifices
of peace offerings of the children of Israel.



(e) For the breast and shoulders of the peace offerings might be brought to their families, so that
their daughters might eat of them, as also of the offerings of first fruits, the first born, and the
Easter lamb, (<bcv=Lev 22:12-13>Lev 22:12-13</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 10:16
<h3><verse=Leviticus 10:16>Leviticus 10:16</verse></h3>



And Moses diligently sought the goat of the sin offering, and, behold, it was burnt: and he was
angry with Eleazar and Ithamar, the sons of Aaron [which were] (f) left [alive], saying,



(f) And not consumed as Nadab and Abihu.
#BCV:Leviticus 10:19
<h3><verse=Leviticus 10:19>Leviticus 10:19</verse></h3>

<page=232>And Aaron said unto Moses, Behold, this day (g) have they offered their sin offering and their burnt
offering before the LORD; and such things have befallen me: and [if] I had eaten the sin offering to
day, should it have been accepted in the sight of the LORD?



(g) That is, Nadab and Abihu.
#BCV:Leviticus 10:20
<h3><verse=Leviticus 10:20>Leviticus 10:20</verse></h3>



And when Moses heard [that], he was (h) content.



(h) Moses bore with his infirmity, considering his great sorrow, but does not leave an example to
forgive them that maliciously transgress the commandment of God.

<h2>Leviticus 11</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 11:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 11:2>Leviticus 11:2</verse></h3>

<page=233>Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, These [are] the beasts which ye (a) shall eat among all the
beasts that [are] on the earth.



(a) Or, of which ye may eat.
#BCV:Leviticus 11:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 11:3>Leviticus 11:3</verse></h3>



Whatsoever parteth the (b) hoof, and is clovenfooted, [and] cheweth the cud, among the beasts, that
shall ye eat.



(b) He notes four types of beasts, some that chew the cud only, and some that only have the hoof
cleft. Others neither chew the cud, nor have the hoof cleft, and the fourth both chew the cud and
have the hoof divided, which may be eaten.
#BCV:Leviticus 11:8
<h3><verse=Leviticus 11:8>Leviticus 11:8</verse></h3>



Of their (c) flesh shall ye not eat, and their carcase shall ye not touch; they [are] unclean to you.



(c) God would that by this for a time they should be discerned as his people from the Gentiles.
#BCV:Leviticus 11:10
<h3><verse=Leviticus 11:10>Leviticus 11:10</verse></h3>



And all that have not fins and scales in the seas, and in the rivers, of all that (d) move in the waters,
and of any (e) living thing which [is] in the waters, they [shall be] an abomination unto you:



(d) As little fish begotten in the slime.



(e) As they which come of generation.
#BCV:Leviticus 11:22
<h3><verse=Leviticus 11:22>Leviticus 11:22</verse></h3>



[Even] these of them ye may eat; the locust after his kind, and the (f) bald locust after his kind, and
the beetle after his kind, and the grasshopper after his kind.



(f) These were certain types of grasshoppers, which are not now properly known.
#BCV:Leviticus 11:25
<h3><verse=Leviticus 11:25>Leviticus 11:25</verse></h3>



And whosoever (g) beareth [ought] of the carcase of them shall wash his clothes, and be unclean
until the even.

<page=234>(g) Out of the camp.
#BCV:Leviticus 11:29
<h3><verse=Leviticus 11:29>Leviticus 11:29</verse></h3>



These also [shall be] unclean unto you among the creeping things that creep upon the earth; the
weasel, and the mouse, and the (g) tortoise after his kind,



(g) The green frog that sits on the bushes.
#BCV:Leviticus 11:32
<h3><verse=Leviticus 11:32>Leviticus 11:32</verse></h3>



And upon whatsoever [any] of them, when they are dead, doth fall, it shall be unclean; whether [it
be] any vessel of wood, or raiment, or (i) skin, or sack, whatsoever vessel [it be], wherein [any] work
is done, it must be put into water, and it shall be unclean until the even; so it shall be cleansed.



(i) As a bottle or bag.
#BCV:Leviticus 11:36
<h3><verse=Leviticus 11:36>Leviticus 11:36</verse></h3>



Nevertheless a fountain or pit, [wherein there is] plenty of water, shall be clean: but that which (k)
toucheth their carcase shall be unclean.



(k) So much of the water as touched it.
#BCV:Leviticus 11:38
<h3><verse=Leviticus 11:38>Leviticus 11:38</verse></h3>



But if [any] (l) water be put upon the seed, and [any part] of their carcase fall thereon, it [shall be]
unclean unto you.



(l) He speaks of seed that is laid to sleep before it is sown.
#BCV:Leviticus 11:44
<h3><verse=Leviticus 11:44>Leviticus 11:44</verse></h3>



For I [am] the LORD your God: ye shall therefore sanctify yourselves, and ye shall be (m) holy; for I
[am] holy: neither shall ye defile yourselves with any manner of creeping thing that creepeth upon
the earth.



(m) He shows why God chose them to be his people, (<bcv=1Pe 1:15>Pe1 1:15</bcv>).

<h2>Leviticus 12</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 12:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 12:2>Leviticus 12:2</verse></h3>

<page=235>Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If a woman have conceived seed, and born a man child:
then she shall be unclean (a) seven days; according to the days of the separation for her infirmity
shall she be unclean.



(a) So that her husband for that time could not have relations with her.
#BCV:Leviticus 12:4
<h3><verse=Leviticus 12:4>Leviticus 12:4</verse></h3>



And she shall then continue in the blood of her purifying three (b) and thirty days; she shall touch
no (c) hallowed thing, nor come into the (d) sanctuary, until the days of her purifying be fulfilled.



(b) Besides the first seven days.



(c) As sacrifice, or such like.



(d) That is, into the court gate till after forty days.
#BCV:Leviticus 12:5
<h3><verse=Leviticus 12:5>Leviticus 12:5</verse></h3>



But if she bear a maid child, then she shall be unclean two (e) weeks, as in her separation: and she
shall continue in the blood of her purifying threescore and six days.



(e) Twice as long as if she gave birth to a boy.
#BCV:Leviticus 12:6
<h3><verse=Leviticus 12:6>Leviticus 12:6</verse></h3>



And when the days of her purifying are fulfilled, for a son, or for a daughter, she shall bring a lamb
of the first year for a burnt offering, and a young pigeon, or a turtledove, for a sin offering, unto the
door of the (f) tabernacle of the congregation, unto the priest:



(f) Where the burnt offerings were wont to be offered.

<h2>Leviticus 13</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 13:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:2>Leviticus 13:2</verse></h3>

<page=236>When a man shall have in the skin of his flesh a rising, a scab, or bright spot, and it be in the skin of
his flesh (a) [like] the plague of leprosy; then he shall be brought unto Aaron the priest, or unto one
of his sons the priests:



(a) That it may be suspected to be leprosy.
#BCV:Leviticus 13:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:3>Leviticus 13:3</verse></h3>



And the priest shall look on the plague in the skin of the flesh: and [when] the hair in the plague is
turned white, and the plague in sight [be] (b) deeper than the skin of his flesh, it [is] a plague of
leprosy: and the priest shall look on him, and pronounce him unclean.



(b) That is, shrunken in, and be lower than the rest of the skin.
#BCV:Leviticus 13:6
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:6>Leviticus 13:6</verse></h3>



And the priest shall look on him again the seventh day: and, behold, [if] the plague [be] somewhat (c)
dark, [and] the plague spread not in the skin, the priest shall pronounce him clean: it [is but] a scab:
and he shall wash his clothes, and be clean.



(c) As having the skin drawn together, or blackish.
#BCV:Leviticus 13:8
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:8>Leviticus 13:8</verse></h3>



And [if] the priest see that, behold, the scab spreadeth in the skin, then the priest shall pronounce
him (d) unclean: it [is] a leprosy.



(d) Concerning his bodily disease: for his disease was not imputed to him for sin before God even
though it were the punishment of sin.
#BCV:Leviticus 13:13
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:13>Leviticus 13:13</verse></h3>



Then the priest shall consider: and, behold, [if] the leprosy have covered all his flesh, he shall
pronounce [him] (e) clean [that hath] the plague: it is all turned white: he [is] clean.



(e) For it is not that contagious leprosy that infects, but a form of scales which does not leave the
skin raw as leprosy does.
#BCV:Leviticus 13:15
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:15>Leviticus 13:15</verse></h3>

<page=237>And the priest shall see the raw flesh, and pronounce him to be unclean: [for] the raw flesh [is] (f)
unclean: it [is] a leprosy.



(f) That is, declares that the flesh is not found, but is in danger of being leprous.
#BCV:Leviticus 13:20
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:20>Leviticus 13:20</verse></h3>



And if, when the priest seeth it, behold, it [be] in sight lower than the skin, and the hair thereof be
turned white; the priest shall pronounce him (g) unclean: it [is] a plague of leprosy broken out of the
boil.



(g) No one was exempted, but if the priest pronounced him unclean, he was put out from among
the people: as appears by the example of Mary the prophetess, (<bcv=Num 12:14>Num 12:14</bcv>) and by king Uzziah, 
(<bcv=2Ch 26:20>Ch2 26:20</bcv>).

#BCV:Leviticus 13:24
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:24>Leviticus 13:24</verse></h3>



Or if there be [any] flesh, in the skin whereof [there is] a hot burning, and the quick [flesh] that
burneth have a (h) white bright spot, somewhat reddish, or white;



(h) If he has a white spot in the place where the burning was and was later healed.
#BCV:Leviticus 13:30
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:30>Leviticus 13:30</verse></h3>



Then the priest shall see the plague: and, behold, if it [be] in sight deeper than the skin; [and there
be] in it a yellow thin (i) hair; then the priest shall pronounce him unclean: it [is] a dry scall, [even] a
leprosy upon the head or beard.



(i) Which was not wont to be there, or else smaller than in any other part of the body.
#BCV:Leviticus 13:36
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:36>Leviticus 13:36</verse></h3>



Then the priest shall look on him: and, behold, if the scall be spread in the skin, the priest shall not



(k) seek for yellow hair; he [is] unclean.



(k) He shall not care whether the yellow hair is there or not.
#BCV:Leviticus 13:41
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:41>Leviticus 13:41</verse></h3>



And he that hath his (l) hair fallen off from the part of his head toward his face, he [is] forehead
bald: [yet is] he clean.



(l) By sickness or any other inconvenience.
#BCV:Leviticus 13:45
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:45>Leviticus 13:45</verse></h3>

#BCV:lev 13:45
<h3><verse=lev 13:45>lev 13:45</verse></h3>



put a covering upon his upper (n) lip, and shall cry, Unclean, unclean.



(m) In sign of sorrow and lamentation.



(n) Either in token of mourning, or for fear of infecting others.
#BCV:Leviticus 13:49
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:49>Leviticus 13:49</verse></h3>



And if the plague be greenish or reddish in the garment, or in the skin, either in the warp, or in the
woof, or in any thing of (o) skin; it [is] a plague of leprosy, and shall be shewed unto the priest:



(o) Whether it be garment, vessel, or instrument.
#BCV:Leviticus 13:53
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:53>Leviticus 13:53</verse></h3>



And if the priest shall look, and, behold, the plague be not (p) spread in the garment, either in the
warp, or in the woof, or in any thing of skin;



(p) But abide still in one place, as in (<bcv=Lev 13:37>Lev 13:37</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 13:55
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:55>Leviticus 13:55</verse></h3>



And the priest shall look on the plague, after that it is washed: and, behold, [if] the plague have not
changed his (q) colour, and the plague be not spread; it [is] unclean; thou shalt burn it in the fire; it
[is] fret inward, (r) [whether] it [be] bare within or without.



(q) But remain as it did before.



(r) Or, whether it be in any bare place before, or behind.
#BCV:Leviticus 13:58
<h3><verse=Leviticus 13:58>Leviticus 13:58</verse></h3>



And the garment, either warp, or woof, or whatsoever thing of skin [it be], which thou shalt wash, if
the plague be departed from them, then it shall be washed (s) the second time, and shall be clean.



(s) So that he might be sure that the leprosy was departed, and that all opportunity for infection
might be taken away.

<h2>Leviticus 14</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 14:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 14:2>Leviticus 14:2</verse></h3>

<page=239>This shall be the (a) law of the leper in the day of his cleansing: He shall be brought unto the priest:



(a) Or, the ceremony which shall be used in his purgation.
#BCV:Leviticus 14:4
<h3><verse=Leviticus 14:4>Leviticus 14:4</verse></h3>



Then shall the priest command to take for him that is to be cleansed two birds alive [and] (b) clean,
and cedar wood, and scarlet, and hyssop:



(b) Of birds which were permitted to be eaten.
#BCV:Leviticus 14:5
<h3><verse=Leviticus 14:5>Leviticus 14:5</verse></h3>



And the priest shall command that one of the birds be killed in an earthen vessel over (c) running
water:



(c) Running water, or of the fountains.
#BCV:Leviticus 14:7
<h3><verse=Leviticus 14:7>Leviticus 14:7</verse></h3>



And he shall sprinkle upon him that is to be cleansed from the leprosy seven times, and shall
pronounce him clean, and shall (d) let the living bird loose into the open field.



(d) Signifying that he that was made clean was set free, and restored to the company of others.
#BCV:Leviticus 14:10
<h3><verse=Leviticus 14:10>Leviticus 14:10</verse></h3>



And on the eighth day he shall take two he lambs without (e) blemish, and one ewe lamb of the first
year without blemish, and three tenth deals of fine flour [for] a meat offering, mingled with oil, (f)
and one log of oil.



(e) Which has no imperfection in any part.



(f) This quantity in Hebrew is called a Log, and holds six eggs in measure.
#BCV:Leviticus 14:21
<h3><verse=Leviticus 14:21>Leviticus 14:21</verse></h3>



And if he [be] poor, and cannot get so much; then he shall take one lamb [for] a trespass offering to
be waved, to make an atonement for him, and one (g) tenth deal of fine flour mingled with oil for a
meat offering, and a log of oil;

<page=240>(g) Which is an Omer, <bcv=Exo 16:16>(Exo 16:16).</bcv>
#BCV:Leviticus 14:24
<h3><verse=Leviticus 14:24>Leviticus 14:24</verse></h3>



And the priest shall take the lamb of the trespass offering, and the log of oil, and the priest shall (h)
wave them [for] a wave offering before the LORD:



(h) Or, shall offer them as the offering that is shaken to and fro.
#BCV:Leviticus 14:30
<h3><verse=Leviticus 14:30>Leviticus 14:30</verse></h3>



And he shall offer the one of the turtledoves, or of the young pigeons, (i) such as he can get;



(i) whether of them he can get.
#BCV:Leviticus 14:32
<h3><verse=Leviticus 14:32>Leviticus 14:32</verse></h3>



This [is] the (k) law [of him] in whom [is] the plague of leprosy, whose hand is not able to get [that
which pertaineth] to his cleansing.



(k) This order is appointed for the poor man.
#BCV:Leviticus 14:34
<h3><verse=Leviticus 14:34>Leviticus 14:34</verse></h3>



When ye be come into the land of Canaan, which I give to you for a possession, and I (l) put the
plague of leprosy in a house of the land of your possession;



(l) This declares that no plague nor punishment comes to man without God's providence and his
sending.
#BCV:Leviticus 14:41
<h3><verse=Leviticus 14:41>Leviticus 14:41</verse></h3>



And he shall cause the house to be scraped within round about, and they shall pour out the dust that
they scrape off without the city into (m) an unclean place:



(m) Where trash was cast, and other filth, that the people might not be infected by them.
#BCV:Leviticus 14:45
<h3><verse=Leviticus 14:45>Leviticus 14:45</verse></h3>



And he shall (n) break down the house, the stones of it, and the timber thereof, and all the morter
of the house; and he shall carry [them] forth out of the city into an unclean place.



(n) That is, he shall command it to be pulled down, as in (<bcv=Lev 14:40>Lev 14:40</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 14:49
<h3><verse=Leviticus 14:49>Leviticus 14:49</verse></h3>

#BCV:lev 14:49
<h3><verse=lev 14:49>lev 14:49</verse></h3>




(o) It seems that this was a lace or string to bind the hyssop to the wood, and so was made a sprinkle:
the apostle to the Hebrews calls it scarlet wool, (<bcv=Heb 9:19>Heb 9:19</bcv>).

<h2>Leviticus 15</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 15:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 15:2>Leviticus 15:2</verse></h3>

<page=242>Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When any man hath a running issue out of his



(a) flesh, [because of] his issue he [is] unclean.



(a) Whose seed either in sleeping or else of weakness of nature issues at his secret part.
#BCV:Leviticus 15:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 15:3>Leviticus 15:3</verse></h3>



And this shall be his uncleanness in his issue: whether his flesh run with his issue, or his flesh be
stopped from his issue, it [is] (b) his uncleanness.



(b) Of the thing of which he shall be unclean.
#BCV:Leviticus 15:8
<h3><verse=Leviticus 15:8>Leviticus 15:8</verse></h3>



And if he that hath the issue spit upon him that is clean; then (c) he shall wash his clothes, and bathe
[himself] in water, and be unclean until the even.



(c) Of whom the unclean man did spit.
#BCV:Leviticus 15:9
<h3><verse=Leviticus 15:9>Leviticus 15:9</verse></h3>



And what (d) saddle soever he rideth upon that hath the issue shall be unclean.



(d) The word signifies every thing on which a man rides.
#BCV:Leviticus 15:13
<h3><verse=Leviticus 15:13>Leviticus 15:13</verse></h3>



And when he that hath an issue is (e) cleansed of his issue; then he shall number to himself seven
days for his cleansing, and wash his clothes, and bathe his flesh in running water, and shall be clean.



(e) That is, be restored to his old state, and be healed of it.
#BCV:Leviticus 15:16
<h3><verse=Leviticus 15:16>Leviticus 15:16</verse></h3>



And if any man's seed of copulation go out from him, then he shall wash all his (f) flesh in water,
and be unclean until the even.



(f) Meaning, all his body.
#BCV:Leviticus 15:20
<h3><verse=Leviticus 15:20>Leviticus 15:20</verse></h3>

<page=243>And every thing that she lieth upon in (g) her separation shall be unclean: every thing also that she
sitteth upon shall be unclean.



(g) That is, when she has her period, by which she is separate from her husband, from the tabernacle
and from touching any holy thing.
#BCV:Leviticus 15:24
<h3><verse=Leviticus 15:24>Leviticus 15:24</verse></h3>



And if any man lie with her at all, and her flowers (h) be upon him, he shall be unclean seven days;
and all the bed whereon he lieth shall be unclean.



(h) If any of her uncleanness touched him in the bed: for else the man that companied with such a
woman should die, (<bcv=Lev 20:18>Lev 20:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 15:26
<h3><verse=Leviticus 15:26>Leviticus 15:26</verse></h3>



Every bed whereon she lieth all the days of her issue shall be unto her as the (i) bed of her
separation: and whatsoever she sitteth upon shall be unclean, as the uncleanness of her separation.



(i) Shall be unclean as the bed on which she lay when she had her natural disease.
#BCV:Leviticus 15:28
<h3><verse=Leviticus 15:28>Leviticus 15:28</verse></h3>



But if she be cleansed of her issue, then she shall (k) number to herself seven days, and after that
she shall be clean.



(k) After the time that she is recovered.
#BCV:Leviticus 15:31
<h3><verse=Leviticus 15:31>Leviticus 15:31</verse></h3>



Thus shall ye (l) separate the children of Israel from their uncleanness; that they die not in their
uncleanness, when they defile my tabernacle that [is] among them.



(l) Seeing that God required purity and cleanliness of his own: we cannot be his, unless our filth and
sins are purged with the blood of Jesus Christ, and so we learn to detest all sin.

<h2>Leviticus 16</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 16:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 16:2>Leviticus 16:2</verse></h3>

<page=244>And the LORD said unto Moses, Speak unto Aaron thy brother, that he come not at (a) all times
into the holy [place] within the vail before the mercy seat, which [is] upon the ark; that he die not:
for I will appear in the cloud upon the mercy seat.



(a) The high priest entered into the holiest of holies just once a year in the month of September.
#BCV:Leviticus 16:8
<h3><verse=Leviticus 16:8>Leviticus 16:8</verse></h3>



And Aaron shall cast lots upon the two goats; one lot for the LORD, and the other lot for the (b)
scapegoat.



(b) In Hebrew it is called Azazel, which some say is a mountain near Sinai, where this goat was sent.
Rather it is called the scapegoat because it was not offered but sent into the desert, as in (<bcv=Lev 16:11>Lev 16:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 16:12
<h3><verse=Leviticus 16:12>Leviticus 16:12</verse></h3>



And he shall take a censer full of burning coals of fire from off the altar before the LORD, and his
hands full of sweet incense beaten small, and bring [it] within the (c) vail:



(c) The holiest of holies.
#BCV:Leviticus 16:14
<h3><verse=Leviticus 16:14>Leviticus 16:14</verse></h3>



And he shall take of the blood of the bullock, and sprinkle [it] with his finger upon the mercy seat



(d) eastward; and before the mercy seat shall he sprinkle of the blood with his finger seven times.



(d) That is, on the side which was toward the people: for the head of the sanctuary stood westward.
#BCV:Leviticus 16:16
<h3><verse=Leviticus 16:16>Leviticus 16:16</verse></h3>



And he shall make an atonement for the holy [place], because of the uncleanness of the children of
Israel, and because of their transgressions in all their sins: and so shall he do for the tabernacle of
the congregation, that (e) remaineth among them in the midst of their uncleanness.



(e) Placed among them who are unclean.
#BCV:Leviticus 16:18
<h3><verse=Leviticus 16:18>Leviticus 16:18</verse></h3>

<page=245>And he shall go out unto the (f) altar that [is] before the LORD, and make an atonement for it; and
shall take of the blood of the bullock, and of the blood of the goat, and put [it] upon the horns of
the altar round about.



(f) Upon which the sweet incense and perfume was offered.
#BCV:Leviticus 16:21
<h3><verse=Leviticus 16:21>Leviticus 16:21</verse></h3>



And Aaron shall lay both his hands upon the head of the live goat, and confess over him all the
iniquities of the children of Israel, and all their transgressions in all their sins, putting them (g) upon
the head of the goat, and shall send [him] away by the hand of a fit man into the wilderness:



(g) In this goat is a true figure of Jesus Christ, who bears the sins of the people, (<bcv=Isa 53:9>Isa 53:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 16:24
<h3><verse=Leviticus 16:24>Leviticus 16:24</verse></h3>



And he shall wash his flesh with water in (h) the holy place, and put on his garments, and come
forth, and offer his burnt offering, and the burnt offering of the people, and make an atonement for
himself, and for the people.



(h) In the court where the laver was, (<bcv=Exo 30:28>Exo 30:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 16:29
<h3><verse=Leviticus 16:29>Leviticus 16:29</verse></h3>



And [this] shall be a statute for ever unto you: [that] in the (i) seventh month, on the tenth [day] of
the month, ye shall (k) afflict your souls, and do no work at all, [whether it be] one of your own
country, or a stranger that sojourneth among you:



(i) Which was Tisri, part September and part October.



(k) Meaning, by abstinence and fasting, (<bcv=Num 29:7>Num 29:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 16:31
<h3><verse=Leviticus 16:31>Leviticus 16:31</verse></h3>



It [shall be] a (l) sabbath of rest unto you, and ye shall afflict your souls, by a statute for ever.



(l) Or a rest which you shall keep most diligently.
#BCV:Leviticus 16:32
<h3><verse=Leviticus 16:32>Leviticus 16:32</verse></h3>



And the priest, (m) whom he shall anoint, and whom he shall consecrate to minister in the priest's
office in his father's stead, shall make the atonement, and shall put on the linen clothes, [even] the
holy garments:



(m) Whom the priest shall anoint by God's commandment to succeed in his father's place.

<h2>Leviticus 17</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 17:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 17:2>Leviticus 17:2</verse></h3>

<page=246>Speak unto Aaron, and unto his sons, and unto all the children of Israel, and say unto them; This [is]
the thing which the LORD hath (a) commanded, saying,


(a) Lest they should practice the idolatry they had learned among the Egyptians.
#BCV:Leviticus 17:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 17:3>Leviticus 17:3</verse></h3>


What man soever [there be] of the house of Israel, that (b) killeth an ox, or lamb, or goat, in the
camp, or that killeth [it] out of the camp,


(b) To make a sacrifice of offering of it.

#BCV:Leviticus 17:4
<h3><verse=Leviticus 17:4>Leviticus 17:4</verse></h3>


And bringeth it not unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation, to offer an offering unto
the LORD before the tabernacle of the LORD; (c) blood shall be imputed unto that man; he hath
shed blood; and that man shall be cut off from among his people:


(c) I abhor it as much as if he had killed a man as in (<bcv=Isa 66:3>Isa 66:3</bcv>).

#BCV:Leviticus 17:5
<h3><verse=Leviticus 17:5>Leviticus 17:5</verse></h3>


To the end that the children of Israel may bring their sacrifices, which they offer in the (d) open field,
even that they may bring them unto the LORD, unto the door of the tabernacle of the congregation,
unto the priest, and offer them [for] peace offerings unto the LORD.


(d) In that they were moved with foolish devotion to offer it.

#BCV:Leviticus 17:7
<h3><verse=Leviticus 17:7>Leviticus 17:7</verse></h3>


And they shall no more offer their sacrifices unto (e) devils, after whom they have gone a (f)
whoring. This shall be a statute for ever unto them throughout their generations.


(e) Meaning, whatever is not the true God, (<bcv=1Co 10:10>1Co 10:10</bcv>;<bcv=Psa 95:5> Psa 95:5</bcv>).


(f) For idolatry is spiritual whoredom, because faith toward God is broken.

#BCV:Leviticus 17:10
<h3><verse=Leviticus 17:10>Leviticus 17:10</verse></h3>

<page=247>And whatsoever man [there be] of the house of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn among you,
that eateth any manner of blood; I will even set (g) my face against that soul that eateth blood, and
will cut him off from among his people.


(g) I will declare my wrath by taking vengeance on him as in (<bcv=Lev 20:3>Lev 20:3</bcv>).

#BCV:Leviticus 17:13
<h3><verse=Leviticus 17:13>Leviticus 17:13</verse></h3>


And whatsoever man [there be] of the children of Israel, or of the strangers that sojourn among
you, which hunteth and catcheth any beast or fowl that may be (h) eaten; he shall even pour out the
blood thereof, and cover it with dust.



(h) Which the law permits to be eaten, because it is clean.

<h2>Leviticus 18</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 18:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 18:3>Leviticus 18:3</verse></h3>

<page=248>After the (a) doings of the land of Egypt, wherein ye dwelt, shall ye not do: and after the doings of
the land of Canaan, whither I bring you, shall ye not do: neither shall ye walk in their ordinances.


(a) You shall preserve yourselves from these abominations following, which the Egyptians and
Canaanites use.
#BCV:Leviticus 18:5
<h3><verse=Leviticus 18:5>Leviticus 18:5</verse></h3>



Ye shall therefore keep my statutes, and my judgments: which if a man do, he shall live in them: (b) I
[am] the LORD.



(b) And therefore you ought to serve me alone, as my people.
#BCV:Leviticus 18:6
<h3><verse=Leviticus 18:6>Leviticus 18:6</verse></h3>



None of you shall approach to any that is near of kin to him, to (c) uncover [their] nakedness: I [am]
the LORD.



(c) That is, to lie with her, though it be under title of marriage.
#BCV:Leviticus 18:8
<h3><verse=Leviticus 18:8>Leviticus 18:8</verse></h3>



The nakedness of thy father's (d) wife shalt thou not uncover: it [is] thy father's nakedness.



(d) Which is your stepmother.
#BCV:Leviticus 18:9
<h3><verse=Leviticus 18:9>Leviticus 18:9</verse></h3>



The nakedness of thy (e) sister, the daughter of thy father, or daughter of thy mother, [whether she
be] born at home, or born abroad, [even] their nakedness thou shalt not uncover.



(e) Either by father or mother, born in marriage or otherwise.
#BCV:Leviticus 18:10
<h3><verse=Leviticus 18:10>Leviticus 18:10</verse></h3>



The nakedness of thy son's daughter, or of thy daughter's daughter, [even] their nakedness thou
shalt not uncover: for theirs [is] thine own (f) nakedness.



(f) They are her children whose shame you have uncovered.
#BCV:Leviticus 18:14
<h3><verse=Leviticus 18:14>Leviticus 18:14</verse></h3>

#BCV:lev 18:14
<h3><verse=lev 18:14>lev 18:14</verse></h3>



she [is] thine aunt.



(g) Which your uncle discovers.
#BCV:Leviticus 18:16
<h3><verse=Leviticus 18:16>Leviticus 18:16</verse></h3>



Thou shalt not uncover the nakedness of thy (h) brother's wife: it [is] thy brother's nakedness.



(h) Because the idolaters, among whom God's people had dwelt and would dwell, were given to
these horrible incests, God charges his own to beware of them.
#BCV:Leviticus 18:18
<h3><verse=Leviticus 18:18>Leviticus 18:18</verse></h3>



Neither shalt thou take a wife to her sister, to (i) vex [her], to uncover her nakedness, beside the
other in her life [time].



(i) By seeing your affection more bent to her sister than to her.
#BCV:Leviticus 18:19
<h3><verse=Leviticus 18:19>Leviticus 18:19</verse></h3>



Also thou shalt not approach unto a woman to uncover her nakedness, as long as she is put (k) apart
for her uncleanness.



(k) Or while she has her period.
#BCV:Leviticus 18:21
<h3><verse=Leviticus 18:21>Leviticus 18:21</verse></h3>



And thou shalt not let any of thy seed pass through [the fire] to (l) Molech, neither shalt thou
profane the name of thy God: I [am] the LORD.



(l) Which was an idol of the Ammonites, to whom they burned and sacrificed their children, 
(<bcv=2Kings 23:10>Kg2 23:10</bcv>). This seemed to be the chief and principal of all idols: and as the Jews write, was of a great
stature, and hollow within, having seven places or chambers within him: one was to receive meal that
was offered: another turtle doves: the third, a sheep: the fourth, a ram: the fifth a calf: the sixth an
ox: the seventh a child. This idols face was like a calf: his hands were ever stretched out to receive
gifts: his priests were called Chemarims, (<bcv=II Ki 23:5>Kg2 23:5</bcv>;<bcv=Hos 10:5> Hos 10:5</bcv>;<bcv=Zep 1:4> Zep 1:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 18:25
<h3><verse=Leviticus 18:25>Leviticus 18:25</verse></h3>



And the land is defiled: therefore I do (m) visit the iniquity thereof upon it, and the land itself (n)
vomiteth out her inhabitants.

<page=250>(m) I will punish the land where such incestuous marriages and pollutions are tolerated.



(n) He compares the wicked to evil humours and overeating, which corrupt the stomach, and
oppress nature, and therefore must be cast out by vomit.
#BCV:Leviticus 18:28
<h3><verse=Leviticus 18:28>Leviticus 18:28</verse></h3>



That the land spue not you out also, when ye defile it, as it (o) spued out the nations that [were]
before you.



(o) Both for their wicked marriages, unnatural copulations, idolatry or spiritual whoredom with
Molech and such like abominations.
#BCV:Leviticus 18:29
<h3><verse=Leviticus 18:29>Leviticus 18:29</verse></h3>



For whosoever shall commit any of these abominations, even the souls that commit [them] shall (p)
be cut off from among their people.



(p) Either by the civil sword or by some plague that God will send upon such.

<h2>Leviticus 19</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 19:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 19:2>Leviticus 19:2</verse></h3>

<page=251>Speak unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, and say unto them, Ye shall be (a) holy: for
I the LORD your God [am] holy.



(a) That is, void of all pollution, idolatry and superstition both of soul and body.
#BCV:Leviticus 19:5
<h3><verse=Leviticus 19:5>Leviticus 19:5</verse></h3>



And if ye offer a sacrifice of peace offerings unto the LORD, ye shall offer it (b) at your own will.



(b) Of your own accord.
#BCV:Leviticus 19:7
<h3><verse=Leviticus 19:7>Leviticus 19:7</verse></h3>



And if it be eaten at all on the third day, it [is] abominable; it shall not be (c) accepted.



(c) To wit, of God.
#BCV:Leviticus 19:11
<h3><verse=Leviticus 19:11>Leviticus 19:11</verse></h3>



Ye shall not steal, neither (d) deal falsely, neither lie one to another.



(d) In that which is committed to your credit.
#BCV:Leviticus 19:16
<h3><verse=Leviticus 19:16>Leviticus 19:16</verse></h3>



Thou shalt not (e) go up and down [as] a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou (f) stand
against the blood of thy neighbour: I [am] the LORD.



(e) As a slanderer, backbiter, or quarrel picker.



(f) By consenting to his death, or conspiring with the wicked.
#BCV:Leviticus 19:19
<h3><verse=Leviticus 19:19>Leviticus 19:19</verse></h3>



Ye shall keep my statutes. Thou shalt not let thy cattle gender with a (g) diverse kind: thou shalt not
sow thy field with mingled seed: neither shall a garment mingled of linen and woollen come upon
thee.



(g) As a horse to leap an ass, or a mule a mare.
#BCV:Leviticus 19:23
<h3><verse=Leviticus 19:23>Leviticus 19:23</verse></h3>

#BCV:lev 19:23
<h3><verse=lev 19:23>lev 19:23</verse></h3>




(h) shall count the fruit thereof as uncircumcised: three years shall it be as uncircumcised unto you:
it shall not be eaten of.



(h) It shall be unclean as that thing, which is not circumcised.
#BCV:Leviticus 19:26
<h3><verse=Leviticus 19:26>Leviticus 19:26</verse></h3>



Ye shall not eat [any thing] with the blood: neither shall ye use enchantment, nor (i) observe times.



(i) To measure lucky or unlucky days.
#BCV:Leviticus 19:27
<h3><verse=Leviticus 19:27>Leviticus 19:27</verse></h3>



Ye shall not (k) round the corners of your heads, neither shalt thou mar the corners of thy beard.



(k) As did the Gentiles in sign of mourning.
#BCV:Leviticus 19:28
<h3><verse=Leviticus 19:28>Leviticus 19:28</verse></h3>



Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any (l) marks upon you: I [am]
the LORD.



(l) By whipping your bodies or burning marks in them.
#BCV:Leviticus 19:29
<h3><verse=Leviticus 19:29>Leviticus 19:29</verse></h3>



Do not prostitute thy daughter, to cause her to be a (m) whore; lest the land fall to whoredom, and
the land become full of wickedness.



(m) As did the Cyprians, and Locrenses.
#BCV:Leviticus 19:32
<h3><verse=Leviticus 19:32>Leviticus 19:32</verse></h3>



Thou shalt (n) rise up before the hoary head, and honour the face of the old man, and fear thy God:
I [am] the LORD.



(n) In token of reverence.
#BCV:Leviticus 19:35
<h3><verse=Leviticus 19:35>Leviticus 19:35</verse></h3>



Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment, in (o) meteyard, in weight, or in measure.

<page=253>(o) As in measuring the ground.
#BCV:Leviticus 19:36
<h3><verse=Leviticus 19:36>Leviticus 19:36</verse></h3>



Just balances, just weights, a just (p) ephah, and a just hin, shall ye have: I [am] the LORD your God,
which brought you out of the land of Egypt.



(p) By these two measures he means all other. Of Ephah, read (<bcv=Exo 16:36>Exo 16:36</bcv>) and of Hin, (<bcv=Exo 29:40>Exo 29:40</bcv>).

<h2>Leviticus 20</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 20:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 20:2>Leviticus 20:2</verse></h3>

<page=254>Again, thou shalt say to the children of Israel, Whosoever [he be] of the children of Israel, or of the
strangers that sojourn in Israel, that giveth [any] of his seed unto (a) Molech; he shall surely be put
to death: the people of the land shall stone him with stones.



(a) By Molech he means any type of idol, (<bcv=Lev 18:21>Lev 18:21</bcv>)
#BCV:Leviticus 20:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 20:3>Leviticus 20:3</verse></h3>



And I will (b) set my face against that man, and will cut him off from among his people; because he
hath given of his seed unto Molech, to defile my sanctuary, and to profane my holy name.



(b) Read (<bcv=Lev 17:10>Lev 17:10</bcv>,<bcv=Lev 18:21> Lev 18:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 20:4
<h3><verse=Leviticus 20:4>Leviticus 20:4</verse></h3>



And if the (c) people of the land do any ways hide their eyes from the man, when he giveth of his
seed unto Molech, and kill him not:



(c) Though the people be negligent to do their duty, and defend God's right, yet he will not allow
wickedness to go unpunished.
#BCV:Leviticus 20:6
<h3><verse=Leviticus 20:6>Leviticus 20:6</verse></h3>



And the soul that turneth after such as have familiar spirits, and after wizards, to go a (d) whoring
after them, I will even set my face against that soul, and will cut him off from among his people.



(d) To esteem sorcerers or conjurers is spiritual whoredom, or idolatry.
#BCV:Leviticus 20:9
<h3><verse=Leviticus 20:9>Leviticus 20:9</verse></h3>



For every one that curseth his father or his mother shall be surely put to death: he hath cursed his
father or his mother; (e) his blood [shall be] upon him.



(e) He is worthy to die.
#BCV:Leviticus 20:14
<h3><verse=Leviticus 20:14>Leviticus 20:14</verse></h3>



And if a man take a wife and her mother, (f) it [is] wickedness: they shall be burnt with fire, both he
and they; that there be no wickedness among you.

<page=255>(f) It is an abominable and detestable thing.
#BCV:Leviticus 20:20
<h3><verse=Leviticus 20:20>Leviticus 20:20</verse></h3>



And if a man shall lie with his uncle's wife, he hath uncovered his uncle's nakedness: they shall bear
their sin; they shall die (g) childless.



(g) They shall be cut off from their people, and their children shall be taken as bastards, and not
counted among the Israelites.
#BCV:Leviticus 20:21
<h3><verse=Leviticus 20:21>Leviticus 20:21</verse></h3>



And if a man shall take his brother's wife, it [is] an unclean thing: he hath uncovered his brother's (h)
nakedness; they shall be childless.



(h) Read (<bcv=Lev 18:16>Lev 18:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 20:24
<h3><verse=Leviticus 20:24>Leviticus 20:24</verse></h3>



But I have said unto you, Ye shall inherit their land, and I will give it unto you to possess it, a land
that (i) floweth with milk and honey: I [am] the LORD your God, which have separated you from
[other] people.



(i) Full of abundance of all things.
#BCV:Leviticus 20:25
<h3><verse=Leviticus 20:25>Leviticus 20:25</verse></h3>



Ye shall therefore put difference between clean beasts and unclean, and between unclean fowls and
clean: and ye shall not make your souls (k) abominable by beast, or by fowl, or by any manner of
living thing that creepeth on the ground, which I have separated from you as unclean.



(k) By eating them contrary to my commandment.

<h2>Leviticus 21</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 21:1
<h3><verse=Leviticus 21:1>Leviticus 21:1</verse></h3>

<page=256>And the LORD said unto Moses, Speak unto the priests the sons of Aaron, and say unto them,
There shall none be (a) defiled for the dead among his people:



(a) By touching the dead, lamenting, or being at their burial.
#BCV:Leviticus 21:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 21:3>Leviticus 21:3</verse></h3>



And for his sister a (b) virgin, that is nigh unto him, which hath had no husband; for her may he be
defiled.



(b) For being married she seemed to be cut off from his family.
#BCV:Leviticus 21:4
<h3><verse=Leviticus 21:4>Leviticus 21:4</verse></h3>



[But] he shall not defile himself, [being] a (c) chief man among his people, to profane himself.



(c) The priest was permitted to mourn for his next kindred only.
#BCV:Leviticus 21:7
<h3><verse=Leviticus 21:7>Leviticus 21:7</verse></h3>



They shall not take a wife [that is] a whore, or (d) profane; neither shall they take a woman put away
from her husband: for he [is] holy unto his God.



(d) Which has an evil name or is defamed.
#BCV:Leviticus 21:8
<h3><verse=Leviticus 21:8>Leviticus 21:8</verse></h3>



Thou shalt (e) sanctify him therefore; for he offereth the (f) bread of thy God: he shall be holy unto
thee: for I the LORD, which sanctify you, [am] holy.



(e) You shall count them holy and reverence them.



(f) The showbread.
#BCV:Leviticus 21:10
<h3><verse=Leviticus 21:10>Leviticus 21:10</verse></h3>



And [he that is] the high priest among his brethren, upon whose head the anointing oil was poured,
and that is consecrated to put on the garments, shall not (g) uncover his head, nor rend his clothes;



(g) He shall use no such ceremonies as the mourners observed.
#BCV:Leviticus 21:12
<h3><verse=Leviticus 21:12>Leviticus 21:12</verse></h3>

<page=257>Neither shall he go out of the (h) sanctuary, nor profane the sanctuary of his God; for the (i) crown
of the anointing oil of his God [is] upon him: I [am] the LORD.



(h) To go to the dead.



(i) For by his anointing he was preferred above the other priests and therefore could not lament the
dead, least he should have polluted his holy anointing.
#BCV:Leviticus 21:14
<h3><verse=Leviticus 21:14>Leviticus 21:14</verse></h3>



A widow, or a divorced woman, or profane, [or] an harlot, these shall he not take: but he shall take a
virgin of his own (k) people to wife.



(k) Not only of his tribe, but of all Israel.
#BCV:Leviticus 21:15
<h3><verse=Leviticus 21:15>Leviticus 21:15</verse></h3>



Neither shall he profane his (l) seed among his people: for I the LORD do sanctify him.



(l) By marrying any unchaste or defamed woman.
#BCV:Leviticus 21:18
<h3><verse=Leviticus 21:18>Leviticus 21:18</verse></h3>



For whatsoever man [he be] that hath a blemish, he shall not approach: a blind man, or a lame, or he
that hath (m) a flat nose, or any (n) thing superfluous,



(m) Which is deformed or bruised.



(n) As not of equal proportion, or having in number more or less.
#BCV:Leviticus 21:20
<h3><verse=Leviticus 21:20>Leviticus 21:20</verse></h3>



Or crookbackt, or a dwarf, (o) or that hath a blemish in his eye, or be scurvy, or scabbed, or hath his
stones broken;



(o) Or that has a web or pearl.
#BCV:Leviticus 21:21
<h3><verse=Leviticus 21:21>Leviticus 21:21</verse></h3>



No man that hath a blemish of the seed of Aaron the priest shall come nigh to offer the offerings
of the LORD made by fire: he hath a blemish; he shall not come nigh to offer the (p) bread of his
God.

<page=258>(p) As the show bread, and meat offerings.
#BCV:Leviticus 21:22
<h3><verse=Leviticus 21:22>Leviticus 21:22</verse></h3>



He shall eat the bread of his God, [both] of the (q) most holy, and (r) of the holy.



(q) As of sacrifice for sin.



(r) As of the tithes and first fruits.
#BCV:Leviticus 21:23
<h3><verse=Leviticus 21:23>Leviticus 21:23</verse></h3>



Only he shall not go in unto the (s) vail, nor come nigh unto the altar, because he hath a blemish;
that he profane not my sanctuaries: for I the LORD do sanctify them.



(s) Into the sanctuary.

<h2>Leviticus 22</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 22:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 22:2>Leviticus 22:2</verse></h3>

<page=259>Speak unto Aaron and to his sons, that they (a) separate themselves from the holy things of the
children of Israel, and that they profane not my holy name [in those things] which they hallow unto
me: I [am] the LORD.



(a) Meaning, that the priests abstain from eating, as long as they are polluted.
#BCV:Leviticus 22:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 22:3>Leviticus 22:3</verse></h3>



Say unto them, Whosoever [he be] of all your seed among your generations, that (b) goeth unto the
holy things, which the children of Israel hallow unto the LORD, having his uncleanness upon him,
that soul shall be cut off from my presence: I [am] the LORD.



(b) To eat of it.
#BCV:Leviticus 22:4
<h3><verse=Leviticus 22:4>Leviticus 22:4</verse></h3>



What man soever of the seed of Aaron [is] a leper, or hath a running issue; he shall not eat of the
holy things, until he be clean. And whoso toucheth any thing [that is] (c) unclean [by] the dead, or a
man whose seed goeth from him;



(c) By touching any dead thing, or being at burial of the dead.
#BCV:Leviticus 22:10
<h3><verse=Leviticus 22:10>Leviticus 22:10</verse></h3>



There shall no (d) stranger eat [of] the holy thing: a (e) sojourner of the priest, or an hired servant,
shall not eat [of] the holy thing.



(d) Which is not of the tribe of Levi.



(e) Some read, the servant who had his ear bored, and would not go free, (<bcv=Exo 21:6>Exo 21:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 22:12
<h3><verse=Leviticus 22:12>Leviticus 22:12</verse></h3>



If the priest's daughter also be [married] unto a (f) stranger, she may not eat of an offering of the
holy things.



(f) Who is not of the priests kindred.
#BCV:Leviticus 22:14
<h3><verse=Leviticus 22:14>Leviticus 22:14</verse></h3>

<page=260>And if a man eat [of] the holy thing unwittingly, then he shall put the (g) fifth [part] thereof unto it,
and shall give [it] unto the priest with the holy thing.



(g) He shall give that and a fifth part over.
#BCV:Leviticus 22:16
<h3><verse=Leviticus 22:16>Leviticus 22:16</verse></h3>



Or suffer them to bear the iniquity of (h) trespass, when they eat their holy things: for I the LORD
do sanctify them.



(h) For if they did not offer sacrifice for their error, the people by their example might commit the
same offence.
#BCV:Leviticus 22:25
<h3><verse=Leviticus 22:25>Leviticus 22:25</verse></h3>



Neither (i) from a stranger's hand shall ye offer the bread of your God of any of these; because
their corruption [is] in them, [and] blemishes [be] in them: they shall not be accepted for you.



(i) You shall not receive any imperfect thing from a stranger, to make it the Lord's offering: which he
calls the bread of the Lord.
#BCV:Leviticus 22:32
<h3><verse=Leviticus 22:32>Leviticus 22:32</verse></h3>



Neither shall ye (k) profane my holy name; but I will be hallowed among the children of Israel: I [am]
the LORD which hallow you,



(k) For whoever does otherwise than God commands pollutes his Name.

<h2>Leviticus 23</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 23:4
<h3><verse=Leviticus 23:4>Leviticus 23:4</verse></h3>

<page=261>These [are] the feasts of the LORD, [even] holy convocations, which ye shall proclaim in their (a)
seasons.



(a) For the sabbath was kept every week, and these others were kept only once every year.
#BCV:Leviticus 23:7
<h3><verse=Leviticus 23:7>Leviticus 23:7</verse></h3>



In the first day ye shall have an holy convocation: ye shall do no (b) servile work therein.



(b) Or, bodily labour, save about that which one must eat, (<bcv=Exo 12:16>Exo 12:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 23:8
<h3><verse=Leviticus 23:8>Leviticus 23:8</verse></h3>



But ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD seven days: in the (c) seventh day [is] an
holy convocation: ye shall do no servile work [therein].



(c) The first day of the feast and the seventh were kept holy: in the rest they might work, except any
feasts that were together, as were the feast of unleavened bread and the feast of sheaves which were
on the fifteenth and sixteenth days.
#BCV:Leviticus 23:11
<h3><verse=Leviticus 23:11>Leviticus 23:11</verse></h3>



And he shall wave the sheaf before the LORD, to be accepted for you: on the morrow after the (d)
sabbath the priest shall wave it.



(d) That is, the second sabbath of the Passover.
#BCV:Leviticus 23:13
<h3><verse=Leviticus 23:13>Leviticus 23:13</verse></h3>



And the meat offering thereof [shall be] two (e) tenth deals of fine flour mingled with oil, an
offering made by fire unto the LORD [for] a sweet savour: and the drink offering thereof [shall be]
of wine, the fourth [part] (f) of an hin.



(e) Which is, the fifth part of an Ephah, or two Omers: read (<bcv=Exo 16:16>Exo 16:16</bcv>).



(f) Read (<bcv=Exo 29:40>Exo 29:40</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 23:15
<h3><verse=Leviticus 23:15>Leviticus 23:15</verse></h3>

<page=262>And ye shall count unto you from the morrow after the (g) sabbath, from the day that ye brought
the sheaf of the wave offering; seven sabbaths shall be complete:



(g) That is, the seventh day after the first sabbath of the Passover.
#BCV:Leviticus 23:17
<h3><verse=Leviticus 23:17>Leviticus 23:17</verse></h3>



Ye shall bring out of your habitations two wave loaves of two tenth deals: they shall be of fine flour;
they shall be baken with (h) leaven; [they are] the firstfruits unto the LORD.



(h) Because the priest should eat them, as in (<bcv=Lev 7:13>Lev 7:13</bcv>), and they should not be offered to the Lord
on the altar.
#BCV:Leviticus 23:20
<h3><verse=Leviticus 23:20>Leviticus 23:20</verse></h3>



And the priest shall wave them with the bread of the firstfruits [for] a wave offering before the
LORD, with the two lambs: they shall be holy to the LORD for the (i) priest.



(i) That is, offered to the Lord, and the rest should be for the priest.
#BCV:Leviticus 23:24
<h3><verse=Leviticus 23:24>Leviticus 23:24</verse></h3>



Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, In the (k) seventh month, in the first [day] of the month,
shall ye (l) have a sabbath, a memorial of (m) blowing of trumpets, an holy convocation.



(k) That is, about the end of September.



(l) Or, a holy day to the Lord.



(m) Which blowing was to remind them of the many feasts that were in that month, and of the
Jubile.
#BCV:Leviticus 23:27
<h3><verse=Leviticus 23:27>Leviticus 23:27</verse></h3>



Also on the tenth [day] of this seventh month [there shall be] a day of atonement: it shall be an holy
convocation unto you; and ye shall (n) afflict your souls, and offer an offering made by fire unto the
LORD.



(n) By fasting and prayer.
#BCV:Leviticus 23:32
<h3><verse=Leviticus 23:32>Leviticus 23:32</verse></h3>



It [shall be] unto you a sabbath of rest, and ye shall afflict your souls: in the ninth [day] of the
month at even, from (o) even unto even, shall ye celebrate your sabbath.

<page=263>(o) Which contains a night and a day: yet they took it as their natural day.
#BCV:Leviticus 23:36
<h3><verse=Leviticus 23:36>Leviticus 23:36</verse></h3>



Seven days ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD: on the eighth day shall be an holy
convocation unto you; and ye shall offer an offering made by fire unto the LORD: it [is] a (p)
solemn assembly; [and] ye shall do no servile work [therein].



(p) Or, a day in which the people refrain from all work.
#BCV:Leviticus 23:37
<h3><verse=Leviticus 23:37>Leviticus 23:37</verse></h3>



These [are] the feasts of the LORD, which ye shall proclaim [to be] holy convocations, to offer an
offering made by fire unto the LORD, a burnt offering, and a meat offering, a (q) sacrifice, and drink
offerings, every thing upon his day:



(q) Or, peace offering.
#BCV:Leviticus 23:39
<h3><verse=Leviticus 23:39>Leviticus 23:39</verse></h3>



Also in the fifteenth day of the seventh month, when ye have gathered in the fruit of the land, ye
shall keep a feast unto the LORD seven days: on the first day [shall be] a (r) sabbath, and on the
eighth day [shall be] a sabbath.



(r) Or, a solemn feast.
#BCV:Leviticus 23:43
<h3><verse=Leviticus 23:43>Leviticus 23:43</verse></h3>



That your generations may know that I made the children of Israel to dwell in (s) booths, when I
brought them out of the land of Egypt: I [am] the LORD your God.



(s) In the wilderness, in that they would not believe Joshua and Caleb, when they returned from
spying the land of Canaan.

<h2>Leviticus 24</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 24:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 24:2>Leviticus 24:2</verse></h3>


<page=264>(a) Command the children of Israel, that they bring unto thee pure oil olive beaten for the light, to
cause the lamps to burn continually.



(a) Read (<bcv=Exo 27:20>Exo 27:20</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 24:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 24:3>Leviticus 24:3</verse></h3>



Without the vail (b) of the testimony, in the tabernacle of the congregation, shall Aaron order it
from the evening unto the morning before the LORD continually: [it shall be] a statute for ever in
your generations.



(b) Which separated the holiest of holies, where the ark of the testimony from the sanctuary was.
#BCV:Leviticus 24:5
<h3><verse=Leviticus 24:5>Leviticus 24:5</verse></h3>



And thou shalt take fine flour, and bake twelve cakes thereof: two (c) tenth deals shall be in one cake.



(c) That is, two omers, read (<bcv=Exo 16:16>Exo 16:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 24:7
<h3><verse=Leviticus 24:7>Leviticus 24:7</verse></h3>



And thou shalt put pure frankincense upon [each] row, that (d) it may be on the bread for a
memorial, [even] an offering made by fire unto the LORD.



(d) For it was burnt every sabbath, when the bread was taken away.
#BCV:Leviticus 24:10
<h3><verse=Leviticus 24:10>Leviticus 24:10</verse></h3>



And the son of an Israelitish woman, whose father [was] an Egyptian, went (e) out among the
children of Israel: and this son of the Israelitish [woman] and a man of Israel strove together in the
camp;



(e) Meaning, out of his tent.
#BCV:Leviticus 24:11
<h3><verse=Leviticus 24:11>Leviticus 24:11</verse></h3>



And the Israelitish woman's son (f) blasphemed the name [of the LORD], and cursed. And they
brought him unto Moses: (and his mother's name [was] Shelomith, the daughter of Dibri, of the
tribe of Dan:)

<page=265>(f) By swearing or despising God.
#BCV:Leviticus 24:15
<h3><verse=Leviticus 24:15>Leviticus 24:15</verse></h3>



And thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel, saying, Whosoever curseth his God shall (g) bear
his sin.



(g) Shall be punished.
#BCV:Leviticus 24:23
<h3><verse=Leviticus 24:23>Leviticus 24:23</verse></h3>



And (h) Moses spake to the children of Israel, that they should bring forth him that had cursed out
of the camp, and stone him with stones. And the children of Israel did as the LORD commanded
Moses.



(h) Because the punishment was not yet appointed by the law for the blasphemer, Moses consulted
with the Lord, and told the people what God commanded.

<h2>Leviticus 25</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 25:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:3>Leviticus 25:3</verse></h3>


<page=266>(a) Six years thou shalt sow thy field, and six years thou shalt prune thy vineyard, and gather in the
fruit thereof;



(a) The Jews began to count the year in September: for then all the fruits were gathered.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:5
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:5>Leviticus 25:5</verse></h3>



That which groweth of its (b) own accord of thy harvest thou shalt not reap, neither gather the
grapes of thy vine (c) undressed: [for] it is a year of rest unto the land.



(b) Because of the corn that fell out of the ears the previous year.



(c) Or, which you have separated from yourself, and consecrated to God for the poor.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:6
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:6>Leviticus 25:6</verse></h3>



And the (d) sabbath of the land shall be meat for you; for thee, and for thy servant, and for thy maid,
and for thy hired servant, and for thy stranger that sojourneth with thee,



(d) That which the land brings forth in her rest.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:9
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:9>Leviticus 25:9</verse></h3>




(e) Then shalt thou cause the trumpet of the jubile to sound on the tenth [day] of the seventh
month, in the day of atonement shall ye make the trumpet sound throughout all your land.



(e) In the beginning of the 50 years was the Jubile, so called, because the joyful tidings of liberty
were publicly proclaimed by the sound of a cornet.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:10
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:10>Leviticus 25:10</verse></h3>



And ye shall hallow the fiftieth year, and proclaim liberty throughout [all] the land unto all the (f)
inhabitants thereof: it shall be a jubile unto you; and ye shall return every man unto his (g)
possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.



(f) Which were in bondage.



(g) Because the tribes should neither have their possessions diminished nor confounded.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:14
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:14>Leviticus 25:14</verse></h3>

<page=267>And if thou sell ought unto thy neighbour, or buyest [ought] of thy neighbour's hand, ye shall (h)
not oppress one another:



(h) By deceit, or otherwise.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:15
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:15>Leviticus 25:15</verse></h3>



According to the number of (i) years after the jubile thou shalt buy of thy neighbour, [and]
according unto the number of years of the fruits he shall sell unto thee:



(i) If the Jubile to come is near, you would be better to sell cheaply. If it is far off, sell at a higher
price.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:16
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:16>Leviticus 25:16</verse></h3>



According to the multitude of years thou shalt increase the price thereof, and according to the
fewness of years thou shalt diminish the price of it: for [according] to the number [of the years] of
the (k) fruits doth he sell unto thee.



(k) And not the full possession of the land.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:23
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:23>Leviticus 25:23</verse></h3>



The land shall not be sold (l) for ever: for the land [is] mine; for ye [are] strangers and sojourners
with me.



(l) It could not be sold for ever, but must return to the family in the Jubile.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:24
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:24>Leviticus 25:24</verse></h3>



And in all the land of your possession ye shall (m) grant a redemption for the land.



(m) You shall sell it on the condition that it may be redeemed.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:27
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:27>Leviticus 25:27</verse></h3>



Then let him (n) count the years of the sale thereof, and restore the overplus unto the man to whom
he sold it; that he may return unto his possession.



(n) Deducting money for the years past, and paying for the rest of the years to come.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:28
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:28>Leviticus 25:28</verse></h3>

<page=268>But if he be not able to restore [it] to him, then that which is sold shall remain in the hand of him
that hath bought it until the year of jubile: and in the jubile it shall go (o) out, and he shall return
unto his possession.



(o) From his hand that bought it.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:30
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:30>Leviticus 25:30</verse></h3>



And if it be not redeemed within the space of a full year, then the house that [is] in the walled city
shall be established (p) for ever to him that bought it throughout his generations: it shall not go out
in the jubile.



(p) That is, for ever, read (<bcv=Lev 25:23>Lev 25:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 25:34
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:34>Leviticus 25:34</verse></h3>



But the field of the (q) suburbs of their cities may not be sold; for it [is] their perpetual possession.



(q) Where the Levites kept their cattle.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:35
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:35>Leviticus 25:35</verse></h3>



And if thy brother be waxen poor, and (r) fallen in decay with thee; then thou shalt relieve him: [yea,
though he be] a stranger, or a sojourner; that he may live with thee.



(r) In Hebrew it is, if his hand shake: meaning if he stretch forth his hand for help as one in misery.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:42
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:42>Leviticus 25:42</verse></h3>



For they [are] my servants, which I brought forth out of the land of Egypt: they shall not (s) be sold
as bondmen.



(s) To perpetual servitude.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:45
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:45>Leviticus 25:45</verse></h3>



Moreover of the children of the strangers that do sojourn among you, of them shall ye buy, and of
their families that [are] with you, which they begat in your land: and they shall be your (t) possession.



(t) For they shall not be bought out at the Jubile.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:49
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:49>Leviticus 25:49</verse></h3>

<page=269>Either his uncle, or his uncle's son, may redeem him, or [any] that is nigh of kin unto him of his
family may redeem him; or (u) if he be able, he may redeem himself.



(u) If he be able.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:50
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:50>Leviticus 25:50</verse></h3>



And he shall reckon with him that bought him from the year that he was sold to him unto the year
of jubile: and the price of his sale shall be according unto the number of (x) years, according to the
time of an hired servant shall it be with him.



(x) Which remains yet to the Jubile.
#BCV:Leviticus 25:53
<h3><verse=Leviticus 25:53>Leviticus 25:53</verse></h3>



[And] as a yearly hired servant shall he be with him: [and the other] shall not rule with rigour over
him in thy (y) sight.



(y) You shall not allow him to treat him severely, if you know it.

<h2>Leviticus 26</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 26:4
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:4>Leviticus 26:4</verse></h3>

<page=270>Then I will give you (a) rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the
field shall yield their fruit.



(a) By promising abundance of earthly things, he stirs the mind to consider the rich treasures of the
spiritual blessings.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:6
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:6>Leviticus 26:6</verse></h3>



And I will give peace in the land, and ye shall lie down, and none shall make [you] afraid: and I will
rid evil beasts out of the land, neither shall the (b) sword go through your land.



(b) You shall have no war.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:9
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:9>Leviticus 26:9</verse></h3>



For I will have respect unto you, and make you fruitful, and multiply you, and (c) establish my
covenant with you.



(c) Perform that which I have promised.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:11
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:11>Leviticus 26:11</verse></h3>



And I will set my (d) tabernacle among you: and my soul shall not abhor you.



(d) I will be daily present with you.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:13
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:13>Leviticus 26:13</verse></h3>



I [am] the LORD your God, which brought you forth out of the land of Egypt, that ye should not
be their bondmen; and I have broken the (e) bands of your yoke, and made you go upright.



(e) I have set you at full liberty, while before you were as beasts tied in bands.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:15
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:15>Leviticus 26:15</verse></h3>



And if ye shall despise my statutes, or if your soul abhor my judgments, so that ye will not do all my
commandments, [but] that ye break my (f) covenant:



(f) Which I made with you in choosing you to be my people.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:17
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:17>Leviticus 26:17</verse></h3>

#BCV:lev 26:17
<h3><verse=lev 26:17>lev 26:17</verse></h3>



shall reign over you; and ye shall flee when none pursueth you.



(g) Read (<bcv=Lev 17:10>Lev 17:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 26:18
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:18>Leviticus 26:18</verse></h3>



And if ye will not yet for all this hearken unto me, then I will punish you (h) seven times more for
your sins.



(h) That is, more extremely.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:19
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:19>Leviticus 26:19</verse></h3>



And I will break the pride of your power; and I will make your heaven as (i) iron, and your earth as
brass:



(i) You shall have drought and barrenness.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:21
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:21>Leviticus 26:21</verse></h3>



And if ye walk (k) contrary unto me, and will not hearken unto me; I will bring seven times more
plagues upon you according to your sins.



(k) Or as some read, by fortune, imputing my plagues to chance and fortune.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:22
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:22>Leviticus 26:22</verse></h3>



I will also send wild beasts among you, which shall (l) rob you of your children, and destroy your
cattle, and make you few in number; and your (m) [high] ways shall be desolate.



(l) Read (<bcv=II Ki 17:25>Kg2 17:25</bcv>).



(m) Because no one dares to pass by it for fear of the beasts.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:26
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:26>Leviticus 26:26</verse></h3>



[And] when I have broken the (n) staff of your bread, ten women shall bake your bread in one (o)
oven, and they shall deliver [you] your bread again by weight: and ye shall eat, and not be satisfied.



(n) That is, the strength by which life is sustained, (<bcv=Ezek 4:16>Eze 4:16</bcv>,<bcv=Ezek 5:16> Eze 5:16</bcv>).



(o) One oven will be sufficient for ten families.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:31
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:31>Leviticus 26:31</verse></h3>

#BCV:lev 26:31
<h3><verse=lev 26:31>lev 26:31</verse></h3>



the savour of your sweet odours.



(p) I will not accept your sacrifices.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:35
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:35>Leviticus 26:35</verse></h3>



As long as it lieth desolate it shall rest; because it did not rest in your (r) sabbaths, when ye dwelt
upon it.



(r) Which I commanded you to keep.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:36
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:36>Leviticus 26:36</verse></h3>



And upon them that are left [alive] of you I will send a faintness into their hearts in the lands of
their enemies; and the sound of a shaken leaf shall chase them; and they shall (s) flee, as fleeing
from a sword; and they shall fall when none pursueth.



(s) As if their enemies chased them.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:39
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:39>Leviticus 26:39</verse></h3>



And they that are left of you shall pine away in their iniquity in your enemies' lands; and also in the
iniquities of their fathers shall they pine away with (t) them.



(t) In that, as they are blameworthy of their fathers faults, they shall be punished as well as their
fathers.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:43
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:43>Leviticus 26:43</verse></h3>




(u) The land also shall be left of them, and shall enjoy her sabbaths, while she lieth desolate without
them: and they shall accept of the punishment of their iniquity: because, even because they despised
my judgments, and because their soul abhorred my statutes.



(u) While they are captives, and without repentance.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:45
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:45>Leviticus 26:45</verse></h3>



But I will for their sakes remember the (x) covenant of their ancestors, whom I brought forth out of
the land of Egypt in the sight of the heathen, that I might be their God: I [am] the LORD.



(x) Made to their forefathers.
#BCV:Leviticus 26:46
<h3><verse=Leviticus 26:46>Leviticus 26:46</verse></h3>

<page=273>These [are] the statutes and judgments and laws, which the LORD made between him and the
children of Israel in mount (y) Sinai by the hand of Moses.



(y) Fifty days after they came out of Egypt.

<h2>Leviticus 27</h2>

#BCV:Leviticus 27:2
<h3><verse=Leviticus 27:2>Leviticus 27:2</verse></h3>

<page=274>Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When a man shall make a (a) singular vow, the
persons [shall be] for the LORD by (b) thy estimation.



(a) As of his son or daughter.



(b) Who art the priest.
#BCV:Leviticus 27:3
<h3><verse=Leviticus 27:3>Leviticus 27:3</verse></h3>



And thy estimation shall be of the male from twenty years old even unto sixty years old, even thy
estimation shall be fifty (c) shekels of silver, after the shekel of the sanctuary.



(c) Read the value of the shekel in (<bcv=Exo 30:13>Exo 30:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 27:6
<h3><verse=Leviticus 27:6>Leviticus 27:6</verse></h3>



And if [it be] from a (d) month old even unto five years old, then thy estimation shall be of the male
five shekels of silver, and for the female thy estimation [shall be] three shekels of silver.



(d) He speaks of those vows by which the fathers dedicated their children to God who were not of
such force; but they might be redeemed from them.
#BCV:Leviticus 27:8
<h3><verse=Leviticus 27:8>Leviticus 27:8</verse></h3>



But if he be poorer (e) than thy estimation, then he shall present himself before the priest, and the
priest shall value him; according to his ability that vowed shall the priest value him.



(e) If he is not able to pay according to your estimate.
#BCV:Leviticus 27:9
<h3><verse=Leviticus 27:9>Leviticus 27:9</verse></h3>



And if [it be] a (f) beast, whereof men bring an offering unto the LORD, all that [any man] giveth
of such unto the LORD shall be holy.



(f) Which is clean, (<bcv=Lev 11:2>Lev 11:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 27:10
<h3><verse=Leviticus 27:10>Leviticus 27:10</verse></h3>



He shall not alter it, nor change it, a good for a bad, or a bad for a good: and if he shall at all change
beast for beast, then it and the exchange thereof shall be (g) holy.

<page=275>(g) That is, consecrate to the Lord.
#BCV:Leviticus 27:16
<h3><verse=Leviticus 27:16>Leviticus 27:16</verse></h3>



And if a man shall sanctify unto the LORD [some part] of a field of his possession, then thy
estimation shall be according to the seed thereof: an (i) homer of barley seed [shall be valued] at fifty
shekels of silver.



(i) Homer is a measure containing ten ephahs, read of an ephah in (<bcv=Exo 16:16>Exo 16:16</bcv>,<bcv=Exo 16:36> Exo 16:36</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 27:20
<h3><verse=Leviticus 27:20>Leviticus 27:20</verse></h3>



And if he will not redeem the field, or if he have (k) sold the field to another man, it shall not be
redeemed any more.



(k) For their own necessity or godly uses.
#BCV:Leviticus 27:21
<h3><verse=Leviticus 27:21>Leviticus 27:21</verse></h3>



But the field, when it goeth out in the jubile, shall be (l) holy unto the LORD, as a field devoted; the
possession thereof shall be the priest's.



(l) That is, who dedicate to the Lord with a curse to him that turns it to his private use, (Num
21:2;<bcv=Deu 13:15> Deu 13:15</bcv>;<bcv=Jos 9:17> Jos 9:17</bcv>).
#BCV:Leviticus 27:23
<h3><verse=Leviticus 27:23>Leviticus 27:23</verse></h3>



Then the priest shall reckon unto him the worth of thy estimation, [even] unto the year of the jubile:
and he shall give (m) thine estimation in that day, [as] a holy thing unto the LORD.



(m) The priests evaluation.
#BCV:Leviticus 27:26
<h3><verse=Leviticus 27:26>Leviticus 27:26</verse></h3>



Only the firstling of the beasts, which should be the LORD'S firstling, no man shall sanctify it;
whether [it be] ox, or sheep: it [is] the (n) LORD'S.



(n) It was the Lord's already.
#BCV:Leviticus 27:29
<h3><verse=Leviticus 27:29>Leviticus 27:29</verse></h3>



None devoted, which shall be devoted of men, shall be redeemed; [but] shall surely be (o) put to
death.

<page=276>(o) It shall remain without redemption.
#BCV:Leviticus 27:31
<h3><verse=Leviticus 27:31>Leviticus 27:31</verse></h3>



And if a man will at all redeem [ought] of his tithes, he shall add thereto the (p) fifth [part] thereof.



(p) Besides the value of the thing itself.
#BCV:Leviticus 27:32
<h3><verse=Leviticus 27:32>Leviticus 27:32</verse></h3>



And concerning the tithe of the herd, or of the flock, [even] of whatsoever passeth under the (q)
rod, the tenth shall be holy unto the LORD.



(q) All that which is numbered: that is, every tenth as he falls by tale without exception or respect.

<h1>Numbers</h1>


<h2>Numbers 1</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 1:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 1:1>Numbers 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=277>And the LORD spake unto Moses in the wilderness of (a) Sinai, in the tabernacle of the
congregation, on the first [day] of the (b) second month, in the second year after they were come
out of the land of Egypt, saying,



The Argument - In that as God has appointed that his Church in this world shall be under the cross,
both so they could learn not to put their trust in worldly things, and also feel his comfort, when all
other help fails: he did not immediately bring his people, after their departure out of Egypt, into the
land which he had promised them: but led them to and fro for the space of forty years, and kept
them in continual exercises before they enjoyed it, to try their faith, teach them to forget the world,
and to depend on him. Which trial greatly profited, to discern the wicked and the hypocrites from
the faithful and true servants of God, who served him with pure heart, while the other, preferring
their earthly lusts to God's glory, and making religion to serve their purpose, complained when they
lacked enough to satisfy their lusts, and despised those who God had appointed as rulers over them.
By reason of which they provoked God's terrible judgments against them, and are set forth as a
notable example for all ages, to beware how they abuse God's word, prefer their own lusts to his will,
or despise his ministers. Nonetheless, God is always true to his promise, and governs his by his Holy
Spirit, that either they fall not to such inconveniences, or else return to him quickly in true
repentance: and therefore he continues his graces toward them, he gives them ordinances and
instructions, as well for religion, as outward policy: he preserves them against all deceit and
conspiracy, and gives them many victories against their enemies. To avoid all controversies that
might arise, he takes away the occasions, by dividing among all the tribes, both the land which they
had won, and that also which he had promised, as seemed best to his godly wisdom.



(a) In the place in the wilderness that was near mount Sinai.



(b) Which is part of April and part of May.
#BCV:Numbers 1:4
<h3><verse=Numbers 1:4>Numbers 1:4</verse></h3>



And with you there shall be a (c) man of every tribe; every one head of the house of his fathers.



(c) That is, the chiefest man of every tribe.
#BCV:Numbers 1:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 1:5>Numbers 1:5</verse></h3>

<page=278>And these [are] the names of the men that shall (d) stand with you: of [the tribe of] Reuben; Elizur
the son of Shedeur.



(d) And afflict you when you number the people.
#BCV:Numbers 1:16
<h3><verse=Numbers 1:16>Numbers 1:16</verse></h3>



These [were] the renowned of the congregation, (e) princes of the tribes of their fathers, heads of
thousands in Israel.



(e) Or captains, and governors.
#BCV:Numbers 1:18
<h3><verse=Numbers 1:18>Numbers 1:18</verse></h3>



And they assembled all the congregation together on the first [day] of the second month, and they
declared (f) their pedigrees after their families, by the house of their fathers, according to the
number of the names, from twenty years old and upward, by their polls.



(f) In showing every man his tribe and his ancestors.
#BCV:Numbers 1:47
<h3><verse=Numbers 1:47>Numbers 1:47</verse></h3>



But the Levites after the tribe of their fathers were not numbered among (g) them.



(g) Which were warriors, but were appointed to the use of the Tabernacle.
#BCV:Numbers 1:51
<h3><verse=Numbers 1:51>Numbers 1:51</verse></h3>



And when the tabernacle setteth forward, the Levites shall take it down: and when the tabernacle is
to be pitched, the Levites shall set it up: and the (h) stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death.



(h) Whoever is not of the tribe of Levi.
#BCV:Numbers 1:53
<h3><verse=Numbers 1:53>Numbers 1:53</verse></h3>



But the Levites shall pitch round about the tabernacle of testimony, that there be no wrath (i) upon
the congregation of the children of Israel: and the Levites shall keep the charge of the tabernacle of
testimony.



(i) By not having due regard to the tabernacle of the Lord.

<h2>Numbers 2</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 2:2
<h3><verse=Numbers 2:2>Numbers 2:2</verse></h3>


<page=279>(a) Every man of the children of Israel shall pitch by his own standard, with the ensign of their
father's house: far off about the tabernacle of the congregation shall they pitch.



(a) In the twelve tribes were four principle standards, so that every three tribes had their standard.
#BCV:Numbers 2:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 2:5>Numbers 2:5</verse></h3>



And those that do pitch next unto him [shall be] the tribe (b) of Issachar: and Nethaneel the son of
Zuar [shall be] captain of the children of Issachar.



(b) Judah, Issachar and Zebulun the sons of Leah were of the first standard.
#BCV:Numbers 2:9
<h3><verse=Numbers 2:9>Numbers 2:9</verse></h3>



All that were numbered in the (c) camp of Judah [were] an hundred thousand and fourscore
thousand and six thousand and four hundred, throughout their armies. These shall first set forth.



(c) Of those who were contained under that name.
#BCV:Numbers 2:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 2:10>Numbers 2:10</verse></h3>



On the south side [shall be] the standard of the camp (d) of Reuben according to their armies: and
the captain of the children of Reuben [shall be] Elizur the son of Shedeur.



(d) Reuben and Simeon, the sons of Leah, and Gad, the son of Zilpah her maid, were of the second
standard.
#BCV:Numbers 2:17
<h3><verse=Numbers 2:17>Numbers 2:17</verse></h3>



Then the tabernacle of the congregation shall set forward with the camp of the Levites in the (e)
midst of the camp: as they encamp, so shall they set forward, every man in his place by their
standards.



(e) Because it might be an equal distance from each one, and all indifferently have recourse to it.
#BCV:Numbers 2:18
<h3><verse=Numbers 2:18>Numbers 2:18</verse></h3>




(f) On the west side [shall be] the standard of the camp of Ephraim according to their armies: and
the captain of the sons of Ephraim [shall be] Elishama the son of Ammihud.

<page=280>(f) Because Ephraim and Manasseh took the place of Joseph their father, they are taken as Rachel's
children, so they and Benjamin make the third standard.
#BCV:Numbers 2:25
<h3><verse=Numbers 2:25>Numbers 2:25</verse></h3>



The standard of the camp of (g) Dan [shall be] on the north side by their armies: and the captain of
the children of Dan [shall be] Ahiezer the son of Ammishaddai.



(g) Dan and Naphtali the sons of Bilhah Rachel's maid with Asher the son of Zilpah make the
fourth standard.
#BCV:Numbers 2:32
<h3><verse=Numbers 2:32>Numbers 2:32</verse></h3>



These [are] (h) those which were numbered of the children of Israel by the house of their fathers:
all those that were numbered of the camps throughout their hosts [were] six hundred thousand and
three thousand and five hundred and fifty.



(h) Which were of twenty years and above.
#BCV:Numbers 2:34
<h3><verse=Numbers 2:34>Numbers 2:34</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel did according to all that the LORD commanded Moses: so they pitched
by their (i) standards, and so they set forward, every one after their families, according to the house
of their fathers.



(i) For under every one of the four principal standards, were various signs to keep every band.

<h2>Numbers 3</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 3:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 3:1>Numbers 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=281>These also [are] the (a) generations of Aaron and Moses in the day [that] the LORD spake with
Moses in mount Sinai.



(a) Or, families and kindreds.
#BCV:Numbers 3:4
<h3><verse=Numbers 3:4>Numbers 3:4</verse></h3>



And Nadab and Abihu died (b) before the LORD, when they offered strange fire before the LORD,
in the wilderness of Sinai, and they had no children: and Eleazar and Ithamar ministered in the
priest's office in the (c) sight of Aaron their father.



(b) Or, before the altar.



(c) While their father lived.
#BCV:Numbers 3:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 3:6>Numbers 3:6</verse></h3>



Bring the tribe of Levi near, and (d) present them before Aaron the priest, that they may minister
unto him.



(d) Offer them to Aaron for the use of the tabernacle.
#BCV:Numbers 3:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 3:7>Numbers 3:7</verse></h3>



And they shall keep his charge, and the charge of the whole congregation (e) before the tabernacle
of the congregation, to do the service of the tabernacle.



(e) Which belonged to the executing of the high priests commandment, to the oversight of the
people, and the service of the tabernacle.
#BCV:Numbers 3:9
<h3><verse=Numbers 3:9>Numbers 3:9</verse></h3>



And thou shalt give the Levites unto Aaron and to his (f) sons: they [are] wholly given unto him out
of the children of Israel.



(f) Aaron's sons the priests served in the sanctuary in praying for the people and offering sacrifice:
the Levites served for the inferior uses of the same.
#BCV:Numbers 3:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 3:10>Numbers 3:10</verse></h3>

<page=282>And thou shalt appoint Aaron and his sons, and they shall wait on their priest's office: and the (g)
stranger that cometh nigh shall be put to death.



(g) Any that would minister not being a Levite.
#BCV:Numbers 3:22
<h3><verse=Numbers 3:22>Numbers 3:22</verse></h3>



Those that were numbered of them, (h) according to the number of all the males, from a month old
and upward, [even] those that were numbered of them [were] seven thousand and five hundred.



(h) Only numbering the male children.
#BCV:Numbers 3:25
<h3><verse=Numbers 3:25>Numbers 3:25</verse></h3>



And the charge of the sons of Gershon in the tabernacle of the congregation [shall be] the (i)
tabernacle, and the tent, the covering thereof, and the hanging for the door of the tabernacle of the
congregation,



(i) Their charge was to carry the covering and hangings of the tabernacle.
#BCV:Numbers 3:28
<h3><verse=Numbers 3:28>Numbers 3:28</verse></h3>



In the number of all the males, from a month old and upward, [were] eight thousand and six
hundred, keeping the (k) charge of the sanctuary.



(k) Everyone doing his duty in the sanctuary.
#BCV:Numbers 3:31
<h3><verse=Numbers 3:31>Numbers 3:31</verse></h3>



And their charge [shall be] the (l) ark, and the table, and the candlestick, and the altars, and the
vessels of the sanctuary wherewith they minister, and the hanging, and all the service thereof.



(l) The main things within the sanctuary were committed to the Kohathites.
#BCV:Numbers 3:36
<h3><verse=Numbers 3:36>Numbers 3:36</verse></h3>



And [under] the custody and charge of the sons of Merari [shall be] (m) the boards of the
tabernacle, and the bars thereof, and the pillars thereof, and the sockets thereof, and all the vessels
thereof, and all that serveth thereto,



(m) The wood work and the rest of the instruments were committed to their charge.
#BCV:Numbers 3:38
<h3><verse=Numbers 3:38>Numbers 3:38</verse></h3>

<page=283>But those that encamp before the tabernacle toward the east, [even] before the tabernacle of the
congregation eastward, [shall be] Moses, and Aaron and his sons, keeping the charge of the
sanctuary (n) for the charge of the children of Israel; and the stranger that cometh nigh shall be put
to death.



(n) That no one should enter into the tabernacle contrary to God's appointment.
#BCV:Numbers 3:39
<h3><verse=Numbers 3:39>Numbers 3:39</verse></h3>



All that were numbered of the Levites, which Moses and Aaron numbered at the commandment of
the LORD, throughout their families, all the males from a month old and upward, [were] twenty and
two (o) thousand.



(o) So that the first born of the children of Israel were more by 273, as in (<bcv=Num 3:43>Num 3:43</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 3:41
<h3><verse=Numbers 3:41>Numbers 3:41</verse></h3>



And thou shalt take the Levites for me (I [am] the LORD) (f) instead of all the firstborn among the
children of Israel; and the cattle of the Levites instead of all the firstlings among the cattle of the
children of Israel.



(f) So that now the Levites should satisfy the Lord for the first born of Israel, excepting the 273
which were more than the Levites for whom they paid money.
#BCV:Numbers 3:50
<h3><verse=Numbers 3:50>Numbers 3:50</verse></h3>



Of the (q) firstborn of the children of Israel took he the money; a thousand three hundred and
threescore and five [shekels], after the shekel of the sanctuary:



(q) Or the two hundred seventy and three which were more than the Levites.

<h2>Numbers 4</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 4:3
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:3>Numbers 4:3</verse></h3>

<page=284>From (a) thirty years old and upward even until fifty years old, all that enter into the host, to do the
work in the tabernacle of the congregation.



(a) The Levites were counted at three times, first at a month old when they were consecrated to the
Lord, next at 25 years old when they were appointed to serve in the tabernacle, and 30 years old to
bear the burdens of the tabernacle.
#BCV:Numbers 4:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:5>Numbers 4:5</verse></h3>



And when the camp setteth forward, Aaron shall come, and his sons, and they shall take down the (b)
covering vail, and cover the ark of testimony with it:



(b) Which divided the sanctuary from the holiest of holies.
#BCV:Numbers 4:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:6>Numbers 4:6</verse></h3>



And shall put thereon the covering of badgers' skins, and shall spread over [it] a cloth wholly of blue,
and shall put in (c) the staves thereof.



(c) That is, put them on their shoulders to carry it: for the bars of the ark could never be removed.
#BCV:Numbers 4:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:7>Numbers 4:7</verse></h3>



And upon the table of shewbread they shall spread a cloth of blue, and put thereon the dishes, and
the spoons, and the bowls, and covers to cover (d) withal: and the continual bread shall be thereon:



(d) Meaning, to cover the bread.
#BCV:Numbers 4:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:10>Numbers 4:10</verse></h3>



And they shall put it and all the vessels thereof within a covering of badgers' skins, and shall put [it]
upon a (e) bar.

(e) The Hebrew word signifies an instrument made of two staves or bars.

#BCV:Numbers 4:11
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:11>Numbers 4:11</verse></h3>



And upon the golden (f) altar they shall spread a cloth of blue, and cover it with a covering of
badgers' skins, and shall put to the staves thereof:

<page=285>(f) Which was to burn incense, read <bcv=Exo 30:1>(Exo 30:1).</bcv>
#BCV:Numbers 4:13
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:13>Numbers 4:13</verse></h3>



And they shall take away the ashes from the (g) altar, and spread a purple cloth thereon:



(g) Of the burnt offering.
#BCV:Numbers 4:15
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:15>Numbers 4:15</verse></h3>



And when Aaron and his sons have made an end of covering the (h) sanctuary, and all the vessels of
the sanctuary, as the camp is to set forward; after that, the sons of Kohath shall come to bear [it]:
but they shall not (i) touch [any] holy thing, lest they die. These [things are] the burden of the sons
of Kohath in the tabernacle of the congregation.



(h) That is, in folding up the things of the sanctuary, as the ark, etc.



(i) Before it is covered.
#BCV:Numbers 4:16
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:16>Numbers 4:16</verse></h3>



And to the office of Eleazar the son of Aaron the priest [pertaineth] the oil for the light, and the
sweet incense, and the (k) daily meat offering, and the anointing oil, [and] the oversight of all the
tabernacle, and of all that therein [is], in the sanctuary, and in the vessels thereof.



(k) Which was offered at morning and evening.
#BCV:Numbers 4:18
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:18>Numbers 4:18</verse></h3>




(l) Cut ye not off the tribe of the families of the Kohathites from among the Levites:



(l) Committing by your negligence that the holy things are not well wrapped, causing them to perish
by touching it.
#BCV:Numbers 4:19
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:19>Numbers 4:19</verse></h3>



But thus do unto them, that they may live, and not die, when they approach unto the most holy
things: Aaron and his sons shall go in, and appoint (m) them every one to his service and to his
burden:



(m) Showing what part every man shall bear.
#BCV:Numbers 4:23
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:23>Numbers 4:23</verse></h3>

<page=286>From thirty years old and upward until fifty years old shalt thou number them; all that (n) enter in to
perform the service, to do the work in the tabernacle of the congregation.



(n) Which were received into the company of those who ministered in the tabernacle of the
congregation.
#BCV:Numbers 4:25
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:25>Numbers 4:25</verse></h3>



And they shall bear the curtains of the tabernacle, and the tabernacle of the congregation, his
covering, and the covering of the badgers' skins that [is] above upon it, and the hanging for the (o)
door of the tabernacle of the congregation,



(o) Which hung between the sanctuary and the court.
#BCV:Numbers 4:26
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:26>Numbers 4:26</verse></h3>



And the hangings of the court, and the hanging for the door of the gate of the court, (p) which [is]
by the tabernacle and by the altar round about, and their cords, and all the instruments of their
service, and all that is made for them: so shall they serve.



(p) Which compassed both the tabernacle of the congregation and the altar of burnt offering.
#BCV:Numbers 4:28
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:28>Numbers 4:28</verse></h3>



This [is] the service of the families of the sons of Gershon in the tabernacle of the congregation:
and their charge [shall be] under the (q) hand of Ithamar the son of Aaron the priest.



(q) Under the charge and oversight.
#BCV:Numbers 4:32
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:32>Numbers 4:32</verse></h3>



And the pillars of the court round about, and their sockets, and their pins, and their cords, with all
their instruments, and with all their service: and by (r) name ye shall reckon the instruments of the
charge of their burden.



(r) You shall take inventory of all the things, which you commit to their charge.
#BCV:Numbers 4:37
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:37>Numbers 4:37</verse></h3>



These [were] they that were numbered of the families of the Kohathites, all that might do service in
the tabernacle of the congregation, which Moses and Aaron did number according to the
commandment of the LORD by the (s) hand of Moses.



(s) God appointing Moses to be the minister and executor of it.
#BCV:Numbers 4:41
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:41>Numbers 4:41</verse></h3>

<page=287>These [are] they that were numbered of the families of the sons of Gershon, of all that (t) might do
service in the tabernacle of the congregation, whom Moses and Aaron did number according to the
commandment of the LORD.



(t) Which were of eligible age to serve in it, that is between 30 and 50.
#BCV:Numbers 4:47
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:47>Numbers 4:47</verse></h3>



From thirty years old and upward even unto fifty years old, every one that came to do (u) the service
of the ministry, and the service of the burden in the tabernacle of the congregation,



(u) Whoever of the Levites that had any charge in the tabernacle.
#BCV:Numbers 4:49
<h3><verse=Numbers 4:49>Numbers 4:49</verse></h3>



According to the commandment of the LORD they were numbered by the hand of Moses, every
one according to his service, and according to his burden: thus were they numbered of him, as the
LORD commanded (x) Moses.



(x) So that Moses neither added, nor diminished from that which the Lord commanded him.

<h2>Numbers 5</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 5:3
<h3><verse=Numbers 5:3>Numbers 5:3</verse></h3>

<page=288>Both male and female shall ye put out, without the camp shall ye put them; that they defile not their
camps, in the (a) midst whereof I dwell.



(a) There were three types of tents: of the Lord, of the Levites, and of the Israelites.
#BCV:Numbers 5:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 5:6>Numbers 5:6</verse></h3>



Speak unto the children of Israel, When a man or woman shall commit any sin (b) that men commit,
to do a trespass against the LORD, and that person be guilty;



(b) Commit any fault willingly.
#BCV:Numbers 5:8
<h3><verse=Numbers 5:8>Numbers 5:8</verse></h3>



But if the (c) man have no kinsman to recompense the trespass unto, let the trespass be
recompensed unto the LORD, [even] to the priest; beside the ram of the atonement, whereby an
atonement shall be made for him.



(c) If he is dead to whom the wrong is done and also has no relatives.
#BCV:Numbers 5:9
<h3><verse=Numbers 5:9>Numbers 5:9</verse></h3>



And every offering of all the (d) holy things of the children of Israel, which they bring unto the
priest, shall be his.



(d) Or, things offered to the Lord, as first fruits, etc.
#BCV:Numbers 5:12
<h3><verse=Numbers 5:12>Numbers 5:12</verse></h3>



Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, If any man's wife (e) go aside, and commit a
trespass against him,



(e) By breaking the band of marriage, and playing the harlot.
#BCV:Numbers 5:15
<h3><verse=Numbers 5:15>Numbers 5:15</verse></h3>



Then shall the man bring his wife unto the priest, and he shall bring her offering for her, the tenth
[part] of an ephah of barley meal; he shall pour no (f) oil upon it, nor put frankincense thereon; for
it [is] an offering of jealousy, an offering of memorial, bringing iniquity to (g) remembrance.

<page=289>(f) Only in the sin offering, and so this offering of jealousy were neither oil nor incense offered.



(g) Or, making the sin known, and not purging it.
#BCV:Numbers 5:17
<h3><verse=Numbers 5:17>Numbers 5:17</verse></h3>



And the priest shall take (h) holy water in an earthen vessel; and of the dust that is in the floor of
the tabernacle the priest shall take, and put [it] into the water:



(h) Which also is called the water of purification of sprinkling, read (<bcv=Num 19:9>Num 19:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 5:18
<h3><verse=Numbers 5:18>Numbers 5:18</verse></h3>



And the priest shall set the woman before the LORD, and uncover the woman's head, and put the
offering of memorial in her hands, which [is] the jealousy offering: and the priest shall have in his
hand the bitter water that causeth the (i) curse:



(i) It was so called by the effect, because it declared the woman to be accursed, and turned to her
destruction.
#BCV:Numbers 5:21
<h3><verse=Numbers 5:21>Numbers 5:21</verse></h3>



Then the priest shall charge the woman with an oath of cursing, and the priest shall say unto the
woman, The LORD make thee a (k) curse and an oath among thy people, when the LORD doth
make thy thigh to rot, and thy belly to swell;



(k) Both because she had committed so heinous a fault, and forswore herself in denying the same.
#BCV:Numbers 5:22
<h3><verse=Numbers 5:22>Numbers 5:22</verse></h3>



And this water that causeth the curse shall go into thy bowels, to make [thy] belly to swell, and [thy]
thigh to rot: And the woman shall say, (l) Amen, amen.



(l) That is, may it be as you wished, as in (<bcv=Psa 41:13>Psa 41:13</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 27:15> Deu 27:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 5:23
<h3><verse=Numbers 5:23>Numbers 5:23</verse></h3>



And the priest shall write these curses in a book, and he shall (m) blot [them] out with the bitter
water:



(m) Shall wash the curses, which are written, into the water in the vessel.
#BCV:Numbers 5:26
<h3><verse=Numbers 5:26>Numbers 5:26</verse></h3>

<page=290>And the priest shall take an handful of the offering, [even] the memorial thereof, and burn [it] upon
the (n) altar, and afterward shall cause the woman to drink the water.



(n) Where the incense was offered.
#BCV:Numbers 5:31
<h3><verse=Numbers 5:31>Numbers 5:31</verse></h3>



Then shall the man be (o) guiltless from iniquity, and this woman shall bear her iniquity.



(o) The man might accuse his wife on suspicion and not be reproved.

<h2>Numbers 6</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 6:2
<h3><verse=Numbers 6:2>Numbers 6:2</verse></h3>

<page=291>Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When either man or woman shall separate
[themselves] to vow a vow of a (a) Nazarite, to separate [themselves] unto the LORD:



(a) Who separated themselves from the world, and dedicated themselves to God: a figure which was
accomplished in Christ.
#BCV:Numbers 6:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 6:6>Numbers 6:6</verse></h3>



All the days that he separateth [himself] unto the LORD he shall come at no (b) dead body.



(b) As at burials, or mournings.
#BCV:Numbers 6:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 6:7>Numbers 6:7</verse></h3>



He shall not make himself unclean for his father, or for his mother, for his brother, or for his sister,
when they die: because the consecration of his God [is] upon (c) his head.



(c) In that he allowed his hair to grow, he signified that he was consecrated to God.
#BCV:Numbers 6:9
<h3><verse=Numbers 6:9>Numbers 6:9</verse></h3>



And if any man die very suddenly by him, and he hath defiled the (d) head of his consecration; then
he shall shave his head in the day of his cleansing, on the seventh day shall he shave it.



(d) Whose long hair is a sign that he is dedicated to God.
#BCV:Numbers 6:11
<h3><verse=Numbers 6:11>Numbers 6:11</verse></h3>



And the priest shall offer the one for a sin offering, and the other for a burnt offering, and make an
atonement for him, for that he sinned by (e) the dead, and shall hallow his head that same day.



(e) By being present where the deceased was.
#BCV:Numbers 6:12
<h3><verse=Numbers 6:12>Numbers 6:12</verse></h3>



And he shall (f) consecrate unto the LORD the days of his separation, and shall bring a lamb of the
first year for a trespass offering: but the (g) days that were before shall be lost, because his separation
was defiled.



(f) Beginning at the eighth day, when he is purified.

<page=292>(g) So that he shall begin his vow anew.
#BCV:Numbers 6:18
<h3><verse=Numbers 6:18>Numbers 6:18</verse></h3>



And the Nazarite shall shave the head (h) of his separation [at] the door of the tabernacle of the
congregation, and shall take the hair of the head of his separation, and (i) put [it] in the fire which
[is] under the sacrifice of the peace offerings.



(h) In token that his vow is ended.



(i) For the hair which was consecrated to the Lord, might not be cast into any profane place.
#BCV:Numbers 6:21
<h3><verse=Numbers 6:21>Numbers 6:21</verse></h3>



This [is] the law of the Nazarite who hath vowed, [and of] his offering unto the LORD for his
separation, (k) beside [that] that his hand shall get: according to the vow which he vowed, so he must
do after the law of his separation.



(k) At the least he shall do this, if he is not able to offer more.
#BCV:Numbers 6:23
<h3><verse=Numbers 6:23>Numbers 6:23</verse></h3>



Speak unto Aaron and unto his sons, saying, On this wise ye shall (l) bless the children of Israel,
saying unto them,



(l) That is, pray for them.
#BCV:Numbers 6:27
<h3><verse=Numbers 6:27>Numbers 6:27</verse></h3>



And they shall put my (m) name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them.



(m) They shall pray in my Name for them.

<h2>Numbers 7</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 7:3
<h3><verse=Numbers 7:3>Numbers 7:3</verse></h3>

<page=293>And they brought their offering before the LORD, six (a) covered wagons, and twelve oxen; a wagon
for two of the princes, and for each one an ox: and they brought them before the tabernacle.



(a) Like horse litters, to keep the things that were carried in them from the weather.
#BCV:Numbers 7:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 7:5>Numbers 7:5</verse></h3>



Take [it] of them, that they may be to do the (b) service of the tabernacle of the congregation; and
thou shalt give them unto the Levites, to every man according to his service.



(b) That is, to carry things.
#BCV:Numbers 7:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 7:7>Numbers 7:7</verse></h3>



Two wagons and four oxen he gave unto the sons of Gershon, (c) according to their service:



(c) For their use to carry with.
#BCV:Numbers 7:9
<h3><verse=Numbers 7:9>Numbers 7:9</verse></h3>



But unto the sons of Kohath he gave none: (d) because the service of the sanctuary belonging unto
them [was that] they should bear upon their shoulders.



(d) The holy thing of the sanctuary must be carried on their shoulders and not drawn with oxen,



(<bcv=Num 4:15>Num 4:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 7:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 7:10>Numbers 7:10</verse></h3>



And the princes offered for (e) dedicating of the altar in the day that it was anointed, even the
princes offered their offering before the altar.



(e) That is, when the first sacrifice was offered on it by Aaron, in (<bcv=Lev 9:1>Lev 9:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 7:84
<h3><verse=Numbers 7:84>Numbers 7:84</verse></h3>



This [was] the (f) dedication of the altar, in the day when it was anointed, by the princes of Israel:
twelve chargers of silver, twelve silver bowls, twelve spoons of gold:



(f) This was the offering of the princes, when Aaron dedicated the altar.
#BCV:Numbers 7:88
<h3><verse=Numbers 7:88>Numbers 7:88</verse></h3>

#BCV:num 7:88
<h3><verse=num 7:88>num 7:88</verse></h3>



sixty, the he goats sixty, the lambs of the first year sixty. This [was] the dedication of the altar, after
that it was (g) anointed.



(g) By Aaron.
#BCV:Numbers 7:89
<h3><verse=Numbers 7:89>Numbers 7:89</verse></h3>



And when Moses was gone into the (h) tabernacle of the congregation to speak with him, then he
heard the voice of one speaking unto him from off the mercy seat that [was] upon the ark of
testimony, from (i) between the two cherubims: and he spake unto him.



(h) That is, the sanctuary.



(i) According as he had promised in (<bcv=Exo 25:22>Exo 25:22</bcv>).

<h2>Numbers 8</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 8:2
<h3><verse=Numbers 8:2>Numbers 8:2</verse></h3>

<page=295>Speak unto Aaron, and say unto him, When thou lightest the lamps, the seven lamps shall give light



(a) over against the candlestick.



(a) To that part which is in the forefront of the candlestick, (<bcv=Exo 25:37>Exo 25:37</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 8:4
<h3><verse=Numbers 8:4>Numbers 8:4</verse></h3>



And this work of the candlestick [was of] beaten gold, unto the shaft thereof, unto the flowers
thereof, [was] beaten work: (b) according unto the pattern which the LORD had shewed Moses, so
he made the candlestick.



(b) And not set together of various pieces.
#BCV:Numbers 8:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 8:7>Numbers 8:7</verse></h3>



And thus shalt thou do unto them, to cleanse them: Sprinkle (c) water of purifying upon them, and
let them shave all their flesh, and let them wash their clothes, and [so] make themselves clean.



(c) In Hebrew it is called the water of sin, because it is made to purge sin, as in (<bcv=Num 19:9>Num 19:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 8:9
<h3><verse=Numbers 8:9>Numbers 8:9</verse></h3>



And thou shalt bring the Levites before the tabernacle of the congregation: and thou shalt gather
the (d) whole assembly of the children of Israel together:



(d) That you may do this in the presence of them all.
#BCV:Numbers 8:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 8:10>Numbers 8:10</verse></h3>



And thou shalt bring the Levites before the LORD: and the (e) children of Israel shall put their
hands upon the Levites:



(e) Meaning, certain of them in the name of the whole.
#BCV:Numbers 8:19
<h3><verse=Numbers 8:19>Numbers 8:19</verse></h3>



And I have given the Levites [as] a gift to Aaron and to his sons from among the children of Israel,
to do the service of the (g) children of Israel in the tabernacle of the congregation, and to make an
atonement for the children of Israel: that there be no plague among the children of Israel, when the
children of Israel come nigh unto the (h) sanctuary.

<page=296>(g) Which the Israelites should do.



(h) Because the levites go into the sanctuary in their name.
#BCV:Numbers 8:22
<h3><verse=Numbers 8:22>Numbers 8:22</verse></h3>



And after that went the Levites in to do their service in the tabernacle of the congregation (i) before
Aaron, and before his sons: as the LORD had commanded Moses concerning the Levites, so did
they unto them.



(i) In their presence to serve them.
#BCV:Numbers 8:25
<h3><verse=Numbers 8:25>Numbers 8:25</verse></h3>



And from the age of fifty years they shall cease waiting upon the (k) service [thereof], and shall serve
no more:



(k) Such office as was painful, as to bear burdens and such like.
#BCV:Numbers 8:26
<h3><verse=Numbers 8:26>Numbers 8:26</verse></h3>



But shall minister (l) with their brethren in the tabernacle of the congregation, to keep the charge,
and shall do no service. Thus shalt thou do unto the Levites touching their charge.



(l) In singing Psalms, instructing, counselling and keeping the things in order.

<h2>Numbers 9</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 9:3
<h3><verse=Numbers 9:3>Numbers 9:3</verse></h3>

<page=297>In the fourteenth day of this month, at even, ye shall keep it in his appointed season: according to (a)
all the rites of it, and according to all the ceremonies thereof, shall ye keep it.



(a) Even in all points as the Lord has instituted it.
#BCV:Numbers 9:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 9:6>Numbers 9:6</verse></h3>



And there were certain men, who were defiled (b) by the dead body of a man, that they could not
keep the passover on that day: and they came before Moses and before Aaron on that day:



(b) By touching a corpse, or being at the burial.
#BCV:Numbers 9:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 9:7>Numbers 9:7</verse></h3>



And those men said unto him, We [are] defiled by the dead body of a man: wherefore are we kept
back, that we may not (c) offer an offering of the LORD in his appointed season among the
children of Israel?



(c) Or, celebrate the Passover the fourteenth day of the first month.
#BCV:Numbers 9:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 9:10>Numbers 9:10</verse></h3>



Speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If any man of you or of your posterity shall be unclean by
reason of a dead body, or [be] in a journey afar off, yet (d) he shall keep the passover unto the
LORD.



(d) And cannot come where the tabernacle is, when others keep it.
#BCV:Numbers 9:11
<h3><verse=Numbers 9:11>Numbers 9:11</verse></h3>



The fourteenth day of the (e) second month at even they shall keep it, [and] eat it with unleavened
bread and bitter [herbs].



(e) So that the unclean and those who are not at home, have a month longer granted to them.
#BCV:Numbers 9:13
<h3><verse=Numbers 9:13>Numbers 9:13</verse></h3>



But the man that [is] clean, and is not in a (f) journey, and forbeareth to keep the passover, even the
same soul shall be cut off from among his people: because he brought not the offering of the
LORD in his appointed season, that man shall bear his sin.

<page=298>(f) When the Passover is celebrated.
#BCV:Numbers 9:15
<h3><verse=Numbers 9:15>Numbers 9:15</verse></h3>



And on the day that the tabernacle was reared up the cloud covered the tabernacle, [namely], the
tent of the testimony: and at even there was upon the tabernacle as it were the (g) appearance of fire,
until the morning.



(g) Like a pillar, read (<bcv=Exo 13:21-22>Exo 13:21-22</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 9:18
<h3><verse=Numbers 9:18>Numbers 9:18</verse></h3>



At the commandment of the (h) LORD the children of Israel journeyed, and at the commandment
of the LORD they pitched: as long as the cloud abode upon the tabernacle they rested in their tents.



(h) Who taught them what to do by the cloud.
#BCV:Numbers 9:19
<h3><verse=Numbers 9:19>Numbers 9:19</verse></h3>



And when the cloud tarried long upon the tabernacle many days, then the children of Israel kept the



(i) charge of the LORD, and journeyed not.



(i) They waited when the Lord would signify either their departure, or their abode by the cloud.
#BCV:Numbers 9:23
<h3><verse=Numbers 9:23>Numbers 9:23</verse></h3>



At the commandment of the LORD they rested in the tents, and at the commandment of the
LORD they journeyed: they kept the charge of the LORD, at the commandment of the LORD by
the (k) hand of Moses.



(k) Under the charge and government of Moses.

<h2>Numbers 10</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 10:2
<h3><verse=Numbers 10:2>Numbers 10:2</verse></h3>

<page=299>Make thee two trumpets of silver; of a (a) whole piece shalt thou make them: that thou mayest use
them for the calling of the assembly, and for the journeying of the camps.



(a) Or, of work beaten out with the hammer.
#BCV:Numbers 10:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 10:5>Numbers 10:5</verse></h3>



When ye blow an alarm, then the camps that lie on the (b) east parts shall go forward.



(b) That is, the host of Judah and they that are under his ensign.
#BCV:Numbers 10:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 10:6>Numbers 10:6</verse></h3>



When ye blow an alarm the second time, then the camps that lie on the (c) south side shall take their
journey: they shall blow an alarm for their journeys.



(c) Meaning, the heart of Reuben.
#BCV:Numbers 10:8
<h3><verse=Numbers 10:8>Numbers 10:8</verse></h3>



And the sons of Aaron, the priests, shall (d) blow with the trumpets; and they shall be to you for an
ordinance for ever throughout your generations.



(d) So that only the priests must blow the trumpets, as long as the priesthood lasted.
#BCV:Numbers 10:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 10:10>Numbers 10:10</verse></h3>



Also in the day of your (e) gladness, and in your solemn days, and in the beginnings of your months,
ye shall blow with the trumpets over your burnt offerings, and over the sacrifices of your peace
offerings; that they may be to you for a memorial before your God: I [am] the LORD your God.



(e) When you rejoice that God has removed any plague.
#BCV:Numbers 10:13
<h3><verse=Numbers 10:13>Numbers 10:13</verse></h3>



And they (f) first took their journey according to the commandment of the LORD by the hand of
Moses.



(f) From Sinai to Paran, (<bcv=Num 33:1>Num 33:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 10:17
<h3><verse=Numbers 10:17>Numbers 10:17</verse></h3>

#BCV:num 10:17
<h3><verse=num 10:17>num 10:17</verse></h3>



bearing (g) the tabernacle.



(g) With all the belongings of it.
#BCV:Numbers 10:21
<h3><verse=Numbers 10:21>Numbers 10:21</verse></h3>



And the Kohathites set forward, (h) bearing the sanctuary: and (i) [the other] did set up the
tabernacle against they came.



(h) Upon their shoulders.



(i) The Merarites and Gershonites.
#BCV:Numbers 10:25
<h3><verse=Numbers 10:25>Numbers 10:25</verse></h3>



And the standard of the camp of the children of Dan set forward, [which was] the (k) rereward of
all the camps throughout their hosts: and over his host [was] Ahiezer the son of Ammishaddai.



(k) Leaving none behind, nor any of the former that fainted in the way.
#BCV:Numbers 10:28
<h3><verse=Numbers 10:28>Numbers 10:28</verse></h3>




(l) Thus [were] the journeyings of the children of Israel according to their armies, when they set
forward.



(l) This was the order of their host when they travelled.
#BCV:Numbers 10:29
<h3><verse=Numbers 10:29>Numbers 10:29</verse></h3>



And Moses said unto (m) Hobab, the son of Raguel the Midianite, Moses' father in law, We are
journeying unto the place of which the LORD said, I will give it you: come thou with us, and we will
do thee good: for the LORD hath spoken good concerning Israel.



(m) Some think that Reuel, Jethro, Hobab, and Keni were all one: Kimhi says that Reuel was Jethro's
father: so Hobab was Moses father-in-law, see (<bcv=Exo 2:18>Exo 2:18</bcv>,<bcv=Exo 3:1> Exo 3:1</bcv>,<bcv=Exo 4:18> Exo 4:18</bcv>,<bcv=Exo 18:1> Exo 18:1</bcv>; Jdg 4:11)
#BCV:Numbers 10:33
<h3><verse=Numbers 10:33>Numbers 10:33</verse></h3>



And they departed from the (n) mount of the LORD three days' journey: and the ark of the
covenant of the LORD went before them in the three days' journey, to search out a resting place for
them.

<page=301>(n) Mount Sinai, or Horeb.
#BCV:Numbers 10:35
<h3><verse=Numbers 10:35>Numbers 10:35</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when the ark set forward, that Moses said, (o) Rise up, LORD, and let thine
enemies be scattered; and let them that hate thee flee before thee.



(o) Declare your might and power.

<h2>Numbers 11</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 11:4
<h3><verse=Numbers 11:4>Numbers 11:4</verse></h3>

<page=302>And the mixt (a) multitude that [was] among them fell a lusting: and the children of Israel also wept
again, and said, Who shall give us flesh to eat?



(a) Which were of those strangers that came out of Egypt with them, (<bcv=Exo 12:38>Exo 12:38</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 11:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 11:5>Numbers 11:5</verse></h3>



We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt (c) freely; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the
leeks, and the onions, and the garlick:



(c) For a final price, or good cheap.
#BCV:Numbers 11:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 11:6>Numbers 11:6</verse></h3>



But now our soul [is] (d) dried away: [there is] nothing at all, beside this manna, [before] our eyes.



(d) For the greedy lust of flesh.
#BCV:Numbers 11:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 11:7>Numbers 11:7</verse></h3>



And the manna [was] as coriander seed, and the colour thereof as the colour of (e) bdellium.



(e) Which is a white pearl, or precious stone.
#BCV:Numbers 11:11
<h3><verse=Numbers 11:11>Numbers 11:11</verse></h3>



And Moses said unto the LORD, Wherefore hast thou afflicted thy servant? and wherefore have I
not found (f) favour in thy sight, that thou layest the burden of all this people upon me?



(f) Or, how have I displeased you?
#BCV:Numbers 11:12
<h3><verse=Numbers 11:12>Numbers 11:12</verse></h3>



Have I (g) conceived all this people? have I begotten them, that thou shouldest say unto me, Carry
them in thy bosom, as a nursing father beareth the sucking child, unto the (h) land which thou
swarest unto their fathers?



(g) Am I their father, that no one may have charge of them but I?



(h) Of Canaan promised by another to our fathers.
#BCV:Numbers 11:15
<h3><verse=Numbers 11:15>Numbers 11:15</verse></h3>

<page=303>And if thou deal thus with me, kill me, I pray thee, out of hand, if I have found favour in thy (i)
sight; and let me not see my wretchedness.



(i) I would rather die than see my grief and misery daily increased by their rebellion.
#BCV:Numbers 11:17
<h3><verse=Numbers 11:17>Numbers 11:17</verse></h3>



And I will come down and talk with thee there: (k) and I will take of the spirit which [is] upon thee,
and will put [it] upon them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with thee, that thou bear [it]
not thyself alone.



(k) I will distribute my spirit among them, as I have done to you.
#BCV:Numbers 11:18
<h3><verse=Numbers 11:18>Numbers 11:18</verse></h3>



And say thou unto the people, (l) Sanctify yourselves against to morrow, and ye shall eat flesh: for ye
have wept in the ears of the LORD, saying, Who shall give us flesh to eat? for [it was] well with us in
Egypt: therefore the LORD will give you flesh, and ye shall eat.



(l) Prepare yourselves that you may be clean.
#BCV:Numbers 11:20
<h3><verse=Numbers 11:20>Numbers 11:20</verse></h3>



[But] even a whole month, until it come out at your nostrils, and it be loathsome unto you: because
that ye have (m) despised the LORD which [is] (n) among you, and have wept before him, saying,
Why came we forth out of Egypt?



(m) Or, cast him off, because you refused manna, which he appointed as most suitable for you.



(n) Who leads and governs you.
#BCV:Numbers 11:21
<h3><verse=Numbers 11:21>Numbers 11:21</verse></h3>



And Moses said, The people, (o) among whom I [am], [are] six hundred thousand footmen; and
thou hast said, I will give them flesh, that they may eat a whole month.



(o) Of whom I have charge.
#BCV:Numbers 11:25
<h3><verse=Numbers 11:25>Numbers 11:25</verse></h3>

<page=304>And the LORD came down in a cloud, and spake unto him, and took of the spirit that [was] upon
him, and gave [it] unto the seventy elders: and it came to pass, [that], when the spirit rested upon
them, they prophesied, and did not (p) cease.



(p) From that day the spirit of prophecy did not settle them.
#BCV:Numbers 11:28
<h3><verse=Numbers 11:28>Numbers 11:28</verse></h3>



And Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of Moses, [one] of his (q) young men, answered and said,
My lord Moses, (r) forbid them.



(q) Or, a young man whom he had chosen from his youth.



(r) Such blind zeal was in the apostles, (<bcv=Mar 9:38>Mar 9:38</bcv>;<bcv=Luk 9:44> Luk 9:44</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 11:32
<h3><verse=Numbers 11:32>Numbers 11:32</verse></h3>



And the people stood up all that day, and all [that] night, and all the next day, and they gathered the
quails: he that gathered least gathered ten (s) homers: and they spread [them] all abroad for
themselves round about the camp.



(s) Of Homer, read (<bcv=Lev 27:16>Lev 27:16</bcv>) also it signifies a heap, as in (<bcv=Exo 8:14>Exo 8:14</bcv>; Jdg 15:16).

<h2>Numbers 12</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 12:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 12:1>Numbers 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=305>And Miriam and Aaron spake against Moses because of the Ethiopian woman whom he had
married: for he had married (a) an Ethiopian woman.



(a) Zipporah, Moses' wife, was a Midianite, and because Midian bordered on Ethiopia, it is
sometimes referred to in the scriptures by this name.
#BCV:Numbers 12:3
<h3><verse=Numbers 12:3>Numbers 12:3</verse></h3>




(Now the man Moses [was] very (b) meek, above all the men which [were] upon the face of the
earth.)



(b) And so endured their grudging, although he knew of them.
#BCV:Numbers 12:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 12:6>Numbers 12:6</verse></h3>



And he said, Hear now my words: If there be a prophet among you, [I] the LORD will make myself
known unto him in a (c) vision, [and] will speak unto him in a dream.



(c) These were the two ordinary means.
#BCV:Numbers 12:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 12:7>Numbers 12:7</verse></h3>



My servant Moses [is] not so, who [is] faithful (d) in all mine house.



(d) In all Israel which was his Church.
#BCV:Numbers 12:8
<h3><verse=Numbers 12:8>Numbers 12:8</verse></h3>



With him will I speak mouth to mouth, even apparently, and not in dark speeches; and the similitude
of the LORD shall he (e) behold: wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant
Moses?



(e) As far as any man was able to comprehend, which he calls his back parts, (<bcv=Exo 33:23>Exo 33:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 12:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 12:10>Numbers 12:10</verse></h3>



And the cloud departed from off the (f) tabernacle; and, behold, Miriam [became] leprous, [white]
as snow: and Aaron looked upon Miriam, and, behold, [she was] leprous.



(f) From the door of the tabernacle.
#BCV:Numbers 12:12
<h3><verse=Numbers 12:12>Numbers 12:12</verse></h3>

<page=306>Let her not be as one (g) dead, of whom the flesh is half consumed when he cometh out of his
mother's womb.



(g) As a child that is stillborn, as if it is only the skin.
#BCV:Numbers 12:14
<h3><verse=Numbers 12:14>Numbers 12:14</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Moses, If her father had but (h) spit in her face, should she not be
ashamed seven days? let her be shut out from the camp seven days, and after that let her be received
in [again].



(h) In his displeasure.
#BCV:Numbers 12:16
<h3><verse=Numbers 12:16>Numbers 12:16</verse></h3>



And afterward the people removed from Hazeroth, and pitched in the wilderness of (a) Paran.



(a) That is, in Rithmah, which was in Paran, (<bcv=Num 33:18>Num 33:18</bcv>).

<h2>Numbers 13</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 13:2
<h3><verse=Numbers 13:2>Numbers 13:2</verse></h3>


<page=307>(b) Send thou men, that they may search the land of Canaan, which I give to the children of Israel:
of every tribe of their fathers shall ye send a man, every one a ruler among them.



(b) After the people had required it of Moses, as it is in (<bcv=Deu 1:22>Deu 1:22</bcv>) then the Lord told Moses to do it.
#BCV:Numbers 13:16
<h3><verse=Numbers 13:16>Numbers 13:16</verse></h3>



These [are] the names of the (c) men whom Moses sent to spy out the land. And Moses called
Oshea the son of Nun Jehoshua.



(c) Which in number were twelve according to the twelve tribes.
#BCV:Numbers 13:19
<h3><verse=Numbers 13:19>Numbers 13:19</verse></h3>



And what the land [is] that they dwell in, whether it [be] (d) good or bad; and what cities [they be]
that they dwell in, whether in tents, or in strong holds;



(d) Plentiful or barren.
#BCV:Numbers 13:21
<h3><verse=Numbers 13:21>Numbers 13:21</verse></h3>



So they went up, and searched the land from the wilderness of (e) Zin unto Rehob, as men come to
Hamath.



(e) Which was in the wilderness of Paran.
#BCV:Numbers 13:22
<h3><verse=Numbers 13:22>Numbers 13:22</verse></h3>



And they ascended by the south, and came unto Hebron; where Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai, the
children of (f) Anak, [were]. (Now (g) Hebron was built seven years before Zoan in Egypt.)



(f) Which were a type of giant.



(g) Declaring the antiquity of it: also Abraham, Sarah, Isaac and Jacob were buried there.
#BCV:Numbers 13:26
<h3><verse=Numbers 13:26>Numbers 13:26</verse></h3>



And they went and came to Moses, and to Aaron, and to all the congregation of the children of
Israel, unto the wilderness of (h) Paran, to Kadesh; and brought back word unto them, and unto all
the congregation, and shewed them the fruit of the land.

<page=308>(h) Called also Kadesh-barnea.
#BCV:Numbers 13:27
<h3><verse=Numbers 13:27>Numbers 13:27</verse></h3>



And they told (i) him, and said, We came unto the land whither thou sentest us, and surely it floweth
with milk and honey; and this [is] the fruit of it.



(i) That is, Moses.
#BCV:Numbers 13:28
<h3><verse=Numbers 13:28>Numbers 13:28</verse></h3>



Nevertheless the people [be] strong that dwell in the land, and the cities [are] walled, [and] very great:
and moreover we saw the (k) children of Anak there.



(k) Ahiman, Sheshai, and Talmai, whom Caleb slew afterward, (<bcv=Jos 11:21-22>Jos 11:21-22</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 13:32
<h3><verse=Numbers 13:32>Numbers 13:32</verse></h3>



And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had searched unto the children of Israel,
saying, The land, through which we have gone to search it, [is] a land that (l) eateth up the
inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it [are] men of a great stature.



(l) The giants were so cruel, that they spoiled and killed one another and those that came to them.

<h2>Numbers 14</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 14:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 14:1>Numbers 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=309>And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the (a) people wept that night.

(a) Those who were afraid at the report of the ten spies.
#BCV:Numbers 14:3
<h3><verse=Numbers 14:3>Numbers 14:3</verse></h3>



And wherefore hath the LORD brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword, that our wives and
our children should be (b) a prey? were it not better for us to return into Egypt?



(b) To our enemies the Canaanites.
#BCV:Numbers 14:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 14:5>Numbers 14:5</verse></h3>



Then Moses and Aaron (c) fell on their faces before all the assembly of the congregation of the
children of Israel.



(c) Lamenting the people, and praying for them.
#BCV:Numbers 14:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 14:6>Numbers 14:6</verse></h3>



And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, [which were] of them that searched
the land, (d) rent their clothes:



(d) For sorrow, hearing their blasphemy.
#BCV:Numbers 14:9
<h3><verse=Numbers 14:9>Numbers 14:9</verse></h3>



Only rebel not ye against the LORD, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they [are] (e) bread
for us: their defence is departed from them, and the LORD [is] with us: fear them not.



(e) We shall easily overcome them.
#BCV:Numbers 14:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 14:10>Numbers 14:10</verse></h3>



But all the congregation bade (f) stone them with stones. And the glory of the LORD appeared in
the tabernacle of the congregation before all the children of Israel.



(f) This is the condition of those who would persuade in God's cause, to be persecuted by the
multitude.
#BCV:Numbers 14:15
<h3><verse=Numbers 14:15>Numbers 14:15</verse></h3>

#BCV:num 14:15
<h3><verse=num 14:15>num 14:15</verse></h3>



of thee will speak, saying,



(g) So that none shall escape.
#BCV:Numbers 14:20
<h3><verse=Numbers 14:20>Numbers 14:20</verse></h3>



And the LORD said, I have pardoned (h) according to thy word:



(h) In that he did not utterly destroy them, but allowed their children and certain others to enter.
#BCV:Numbers 14:22
<h3><verse=Numbers 14:22>Numbers 14:22</verse></h3>



Because all those men which have seen my glory, and my miracles, which I did in Egypt and in the
wilderness, and have tempted me now these (i) ten times, and have not hearkened to my voice;



(i) That is, various times and often.
#BCV:Numbers 14:24
<h3><verse=Numbers 14:24>Numbers 14:24</verse></h3>



But my servant Caleb, because he had another (k) spirit with him, and hath followed me fully, him
will I bring into the land whereinto he went; and his seed shall possess it.



(k) A meek and obedient spirit, and not rebellious.
#BCV:Numbers 14:25
<h3><verse=Numbers 14:25>Numbers 14:25</verse></h3>




(Now the Amalekites and the Canaanites (l) dwelt in the valley.) To morrow turn you, and get you
into the (m) wilderness by the way of the Red sea.



(l) And lie in wait for you.



(m) For I will not defend you.
#BCV:Numbers 14:33
<h3><verse=Numbers 14:33>Numbers 14:33</verse></h3>



And your children shall (n) wander in the wilderness forty years, and bear your (o) whoredoms, until
your carcases be wasted in the wilderness.



(n) The word signifies to be shepherds, or to wander like shepherds to and fro.



(o) Your infidelity and disobedience against God.
#BCV:Numbers 14:34
<h3><verse=Numbers 14:34>Numbers 14:34</verse></h3>

#BCV:num 14:34
<h3><verse=num 14:34>num 14:34</verse></h3>



shall ye bear your iniquities, [even] forty years, and ye (p) shall know my breach of promise.



(p) Whether my promise is true or not.
#BCV:Numbers 14:40
<h3><verse=Numbers 14:40>Numbers 14:40</verse></h3>



And they rose up early in the morning, and gat them up into the top of the mountain, saying, Lo, we
[be here], and will go up unto the place which the LORD hath promised: for we have (q) sinned.



(q) They confessed their sin in rebelling against God, but did not consider their offence in going up
without God's commandment.
#BCV:Numbers 14:44
<h3><verse=Numbers 14:44>Numbers 14:44</verse></h3>



But they (r) presumed to go up unto the hill top: nevertheless the ark of the covenant of the LORD,
and Moses, departed not out of the camp.



(r) They could not be stayed by any means.

<h2>Numbers 15</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 15:2
<h3><verse=Numbers 15:2>Numbers 15:2</verse></h3>

<page=312>Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye be come into the (a) land of your
habitations, which I give unto you,



(a) Into the land of Canaan.
#BCV:Numbers 15:4
<h3><verse=Numbers 15:4>Numbers 15:4</verse></h3>



Then shall he that offereth his offering unto the LORD bring a meat offering of a tenth deal of
flour mingled with the fourth [part] of an (b) hin of oil.



(b) Read (<bcv=Exo 29:40>Exo 29:40</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 15:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 15:7>Numbers 15:7</verse></h3>



And for a (c) drink offering thou shalt offer the third [part] of an hin of wine, [for] a sweet savour
unto the LORD.



(c) The liquor was so called, because it was poured on the thing that was offered.
#BCV:Numbers 15:12
<h3><verse=Numbers 15:12>Numbers 15:12</verse></h3>



According to the number (d) that ye shall prepare, so shall ye do to every one according to their

<h1>number.</h1>




(d) Every sacrifice of beasts must have their meat offering and drink offering according to this
proportion.
#BCV:Numbers 15:20
<h3><verse=Numbers 15:20>Numbers 15:20</verse></h3>



Ye shall offer up a cake of the first of your (e) dough [for] an heave offering: as [ye do] the heave
offering of the threshingfloor, so shall ye heave it.



(e) Which is made from the first corn you harvest.
#BCV:Numbers 15:22
<h3><verse=Numbers 15:22>Numbers 15:22</verse></h3>



And if ye (f) have erred, and not observed all these commandments, which the LORD hath spoken
unto Moses,



(f) By oversight or ignorance, read (<bcv=Lev 4:2>Lev 4:2</bcv>,<bcv=Lev 4:13> Lev 4:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 15:31
<h3><verse=Numbers 15:31>Numbers 15:31</verse></h3>

<page=313>Because he hath despised the word of the LORD, and hath broken his commandment, that soul
shall utterly be cut off; his (h) iniquity [shall be] upon him.



(h) He shall sustain the punishment of his sin.
#BCV:Numbers 15:39
<h3><verse=Numbers 15:39>Numbers 15:39</verse></h3>



And it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commandments
of the LORD, and do them; and that ye seek not after your own heart and your own eyes, after
which ye use to go a (i) whoring:



(i) By leaving God's commandments and following your own fantasies.

<h2>Numbers 16</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 16:3
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:3>Numbers 16:3</verse></h3>

<page=314>And they gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron, and said unto them, (a) [Ye
take] too much upon you, seeing all the congregation [are] holy, (b) every one of them, and the
LORD [is] among them: wherefore then lift ye up yourselves above the congregation of the LORD?



(a) Or let it suffice you: meaning, to have abused them this long.



(b) All are equally holy: therefore no one should be preferred above other: thus the wicked reason
against God's ordinance.
#BCV:Numbers 16:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:5>Numbers 16:5</verse></h3>



And he spake unto Korah and unto all his company, saying, Even to morrow the LORD will shew
who [are] his, and [who is] holy; and will cause [him] to come near unto him: even [him] whom he
hath (c) chosen will he cause to come near unto him.



(c) To be the priest and to offer.
#BCV:Numbers 16:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:7>Numbers 16:7</verse></h3>



And put fire therein, and put incense in them before the LORD to morrow: and it shall be [that] the
man whom the LORD doth choose, he [shall be] holy: (d) [ye take] too much upon you, ye sons of

<h1>Levi.</h1>




(d) He lays the same to their charge justly, with which they wrongfully charged him.
#BCV:Numbers 16:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:10>Numbers 16:10</verse></h3>



And he hath brought thee near [to (e) him], and all thy brethren the sons of Levi with thee: and seek
ye the priesthood also?



(e) To serve in the congregation, as in the verse before.
#BCV:Numbers 16:13
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:13>Numbers 16:13</verse></h3>



[Is it] a small thing that thou hast brought us up (f) out of a land that floweth with milk and honey,
to kill us in the wilderness, except thou make thyself altogether a prince over us?



(f) Thus they spoke contemptuously, preferring Egypt to Canaan.
#BCV:Numbers 16:14
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:14>Numbers 16:14</verse></h3>

<page=315>Moreover thou hast not brought us into a land that floweth with milk and honey, or given us
inheritance of fields and vineyards: wilt thou (g) put out the eyes of these men? we will not come up.



(g) Will you make those who searched the land believe that they did not see that which they saw?
#BCV:Numbers 16:16
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:16>Numbers 16:16</verse></h3>



And Moses said unto Korah, Be thou and all thy company (h) before the LORD, thou, and they, and
Aaron, to morrow:



(h) At the door of the tabernacle.
#BCV:Numbers 16:19
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:19>Numbers 16:19</verse></h3>



And Korah gathered all the (l) congregation against them unto the door of the tabernacle of the
congregation: and the glory of the LORD appeared unto all the congregation.



(l) All that were of their faction.
#BCV:Numbers 16:26
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:26>Numbers 16:26</verse></h3>



And he spake unto the congregation, saying, Depart, I pray you, from the tents of these wicked men,
and touch nothing of theirs, lest ye be consumed (k) in all their sins.



(k) With them that have committed so many sins.
#BCV:Numbers 16:28
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:28>Numbers 16:28</verse></h3>



And Moses said, Hereby ye shall know that the LORD hath sent me to do all these works; for [I
have] not [done them] of mine own (l) mind.



(l) I have not invented them from my own brain.
#BCV:Numbers 16:30
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:30>Numbers 16:30</verse></h3>



But if the LORD make (m) a new thing, and the earth open her mouth, and swallow them up, with
all that [appertain] unto them, and they go down quick into (n) the pit; then ye shall understand that
these men have provoked the LORD.



(m) Or, show a strange sight.



(n) Or, deep and dark places of the earth.
#BCV:Numbers 16:38
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:38>Numbers 16:38</verse></h3>

<page=316>The censers of these sinners (o) against their own souls, let them make them broad plates [for] a
covering of the altar: for they offered them before the LORD, therefore they are hallowed: and they
shall be a (p) sign unto the children of Israel.



(o) Who caused their own death.



(p) Of God's judgments against rebels.
#BCV:Numbers 16:40
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:40>Numbers 16:40</verse></h3>



[To be] a memorial unto the children of Israel, that no stranger, which [is] not of the seed of Aaron,
come near to offer incense before the LORD; that he be not as (q) Korah, and as his company: as
the LORD said to him by the hand of Moses.



(q) Who presumed above his calling.
#BCV:Numbers 16:46
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:46>Numbers 16:46</verse></h3>



And Moses said unto Aaron, Take a censer, and put fire therein from off the (r) altar, and put on
incense, and go quickly unto the congregation, and make an atonement for them: for there is wrath
gone out from the LORD; the plague is begun.



(r) For it was not lawful to take any other fire, but of the altar of burnt offering, (<bcv=Lev 10:1>Lev 10:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 16:47
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:47>Numbers 16:47</verse></h3>



And Aaron took as Moses commanded, and ran into the midst of the congregation; and, behold, the



(s) plague was begun among the people: and he put on incense, and made an atonement for the
people.



(s) God had begun to punish the people.
#BCV:Numbers 16:48
<h3><verse=Numbers 16:48>Numbers 16:48</verse></h3>



And he stood between the dead and the living; and the (t) plague was stayed.



(t) God drew back his hand and stopped punishing them.

<h2>Numbers 17</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 17:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 17:1>Numbers 17:1</verse></h3>

<page=317>And the LORD spake unto (a) Moses, saying,

(a) While he was in the door of the tabernacle.
#BCV:Numbers 17:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 17:5>Numbers 17:5</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, [that] the man's rod, whom I shall (b) choose, shall blossom: and I will
make to cease from me the murmurings of the children of Israel, whereby they murmur against you.



(b) To be the chief priest.
#BCV:Numbers 17:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 17:6>Numbers 17:6</verse></h3>



And Moses spake unto the children of Israel, and every one of their princes gave him a rod apiece,
for each prince one, according to their fathers' houses, [even] twelve rods: and the rod (c) of Aaron
[was] among their rods.



(c) Though Joseph's tribe was divided into two in the distribution of the land, yet here it is but one
and Levi makes a tribe.
#BCV:Numbers 17:8
<h3><verse=Numbers 17:8>Numbers 17:8</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, that on the morrow Moses went into the tabernacle of witness; and, behold,
the rod of Aaron (d) for the house of Levi was budded, and brought forth buds, and bloomed
blossoms, and yielded almonds.



(d) To declare that God chose the house of Levi to serve him in the tabernacle.
#BCV:Numbers 17:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 17:10>Numbers 17:10</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Moses, Bring Aaron's rod again before the testimony, to be kept for a
token against the rebels; and thou shalt quite take away their (e) murmurings from me, that they die
not.



(e) Grudging that Aaron should be high priest.
#BCV:Numbers 17:12
<h3><verse=Numbers 17:12>Numbers 17:12</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel spake unto Moses, saying, Behold, (f) we die, we perish, we all perish.

<page=318>(f) The Chaldea text describes their complaining in this way; "We die by the sword, the earth
swallows us up, the pestilence consumes us."

<h2>Numbers 18</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 18:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:1>Numbers 18:1</verse></h3>

<page=319>And the LORD said unto Aaron, Thou and thy sons and thy father's house with thee shall bear (a)
the iniquity of the sanctuary: and thou and thy sons with thee shall bear the iniquity of your
priesthood.



(a) If you trespass in anything concerning the ceremonies of the sanctuary of your office, you will
be punished.
#BCV:Numbers 18:3
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:3>Numbers 18:3</verse></h3>



And they shall (b) keep thy charge, and the charge of all the tabernacle: only they shall not come
nigh the vessels of the sanctuary and the altar, that neither they, nor ye also, die.



(b) That is, the things which are committed to you, or, which you command them.
#BCV:Numbers 18:4
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:4>Numbers 18:4</verse></h3>



And they shall be joined unto thee, and keep the charge of the tabernacle of the congregation, for
all the service of the tabernacle: and a (c) stranger shall not come nigh unto you.



(c) Which was not of the tribe of Levi.
#BCV:Numbers 18:8
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:8>Numbers 18:8</verse></h3>



And the LORD spake unto Aaron, Behold, I also have given thee the charge of mine heave (d)
offerings of all the hallowed things of the children of Israel; unto thee have I given them by reason
of the anointing, and to thy sons, by an ordinance for ever.



(d) As the first fruit, first born, and the tithes.
#BCV:Numbers 18:9
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:9>Numbers 18:9</verse></h3>



This shall be thine of the most holy things, [reserved] from the (e) fire: every oblation of theirs,
every meat offering of theirs, and every sin offering of theirs, and every trespass offering of theirs,
which they shall render unto me, [shall be] most holy for thee and for thy sons.



(e) That which was not burned should be the priests.
#BCV:Numbers 18:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:10>Numbers 18:10</verse></h3>



In the most (f) holy [place] shalt thou eat it; every male shall eat it: it shall be holy unto thee.

<page=320>(f) That is, in the sanctuary between the court and the holiest of holies.
#BCV:Numbers 18:11
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:11>Numbers 18:11</verse></h3>



And this [is] thine; the heave offering of their gift, with all the wave offerings of the children of
Israel: I have given them unto thee, and to thy sons and to thy (g) daughters with thee, by a statute
for ever: every one that is clean in thy house shall eat of it.



(g) Read (<bcv=Lev 10:14>Lev 10:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 18:12
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:12>Numbers 18:12</verse></h3>



All the (h) best of the oil, and all the best of the wine, and of the wheat, the firstfruits of them
which they shall offer unto the LORD, them have I given thee.



(h) Or, fat; chiefest.
#BCV:Numbers 18:17
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:17>Numbers 18:17</verse></h3>



But the firstling of a cow, or the firstling of a sheep, or the firstling of a goat, thou shalt not (i)
redeem; they [are] holy: thou shalt sprinkle their blood upon the altar, and shalt burn their fat [for]
an offering made by fire, for a sweet savour unto the LORD.



(i) Because they are appointed for sacrifice.
#BCV:Numbers 18:19
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:19>Numbers 18:19</verse></h3>



All the heave offerings of the holy things, which the children of Israel offer unto the LORD, have I
given thee, and thy sons and thy daughters with thee, by a statute for ever: it [is] a covenant (k) of
salt for ever before the LORD unto thee and to thy seed with thee.



(k) That is, sure, stable and incorruptible.
#BCV:Numbers 18:20
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:20>Numbers 18:20</verse></h3>



And the LORD spake unto Aaron, Thou shalt have no inheritance in their (l) land, neither shalt
thou have any part among them: I [am] thy part and thine inheritance among the children of Israel.



(l) Of Canaan.
#BCV:Numbers 18:22
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:22>Numbers 18:22</verse></h3>

<page=321>Neither must the children of Israel henceforth (m) come nigh the tabernacle of the congregation,
lest they bear sin, and die.



(m) To serve in it: for the Levites are put in their place.
#BCV:Numbers 18:23
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:23>Numbers 18:23</verse></h3>



But the Levites shall do the service of the tabernacle of the congregation, and they shall bear (n)
their iniquity: [it shall be] a statute for ever throughout your generations, that among the children of
Israel they have no inheritance.



(n) If they fail in their office, they will be punished.
#BCV:Numbers 18:27
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:27>Numbers 18:27</verse></h3>



And [this] your heave offering shall be reckoned unto you, as though [it were] the (o) corn of the
threshingfloor, and as the fulness of the winepress.



(o) As acceptable as the fruit of your own ground or vineyard.
#BCV:Numbers 18:29
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:29>Numbers 18:29</verse></h3>



Out of all your (p) gifts ye shall offer every heave offering of the LORD, of all the (q) best thereof,
[even] the hallowed part thereof out of it.



(p) Which you have received from the children of Israel.



(q) Read (<bcv=Num 18:12>Num 18:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 18:31
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:31>Numbers 18:31</verse></h3>



And ye shall eat it in every (r) place, ye and your households: for it [is] your reward for your service
in the tabernacle of the congregation.



(r) As in (<bcv=Num 18:11>Num 18:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 18:32
<h3><verse=Numbers 18:32>Numbers 18:32</verse></h3>



And ye shall (f) bear no sin by reason of it, when ye have heaved from it the best of it: neither shall
ye pollute the holy (t) things of the children of Israel, lest ye die.



(s) You shall not be punished therefore.



(t) The offerings which the Israelites have offered to God.

<h2>Numbers 19</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 19:2
<h3><verse=Numbers 19:2>Numbers 19:2</verse></h3>


<page=322>(a) This [is] the ordinance of the law which the LORD hath commanded, saying, Speak unto the
children of Israel, that they bring thee a red heifer without spot, wherein [is] no blemish, [and] upon
which never came yoke:



(a) According to this law and ceremony you shall sacrifice the red cow.
#BCV:Numbers 19:3
<h3><verse=Numbers 19:3>Numbers 19:3</verse></h3>



And ye shall give her unto Eleazar the priest, that he may bring her forth without the camp, and (b)
[one] shall slay her before his face:



(b) Another priest.
#BCV:Numbers 19:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 19:7>Numbers 19:7</verse></h3>



Then the (c) priest shall wash his clothes, and he shall bathe his flesh in water, and afterward he shall
come into the camp, and the priest shall be unclean until the even.



(c) Meaning, Eleazar.
#BCV:Numbers 19:8
<h3><verse=Numbers 19:8>Numbers 19:8</verse></h3>



And he that (d) burneth her shall wash his clothes in water, and bathe his flesh in water, and shall be
unclean until the even.



(d) The inferior priest who killed her, and burned her.
#BCV:Numbers 19:9
<h3><verse=Numbers 19:9>Numbers 19:9</verse></h3>



And a man [that is] clean shall gather up the ashes of the heifer, and lay [them] up without the camp
in a clean place, and it shall be kept for the congregation of the children of Israel for a (e) water of
separation: it [is] a purification for sin.



(e) Or, the water of separation because they that were separate due to their uncleanness, were
sprinkled with it and made clean, (<bcv=Num 8:7>Num 8:7</bcv>). It is also called holy water, because it was ordained for a
holy use, (<bcv=Num 1:17>Num 1:17</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 19:12
<h3><verse=Numbers 19:12>Numbers 19:12</verse></h3>

<page=323>He shall purify himself (f) with it on the third day, and on the seventh day he shall be clean: but if he
purify not himself the third day, then the seventh day he shall not be clean.



(f) With the sprinkling of water.
#BCV:Numbers 19:13
<h3><verse=Numbers 19:13>Numbers 19:13</verse></h3>



Whosoever toucheth the dead body of any man that is dead, and purifieth not himself, defileth the
tabernacle of the LORD; and that soul shall be (g) cut off from Israel: because the water of
separation was not sprinkled upon him, he shall be unclean; his uncleanness [is] yet upon him.



(g) So that he should not be esteemed to be of the holy people, but as a polluted and
excommunicated person.
#BCV:Numbers 19:17
<h3><verse=Numbers 19:17>Numbers 19:17</verse></h3>



And for an unclean [person] they shall take of the ashes of the burnt heifer of purification for (h)
sin, and (i) running water shall be put thereto in a vessel:



(h) Of the red cow burnt for sin.



(i) Water of the fountain or river.
#BCV:Numbers 19:18
<h3><verse=Numbers 19:18>Numbers 19:18</verse></h3>



And a (k) clean person shall take hyssop, and dip [it] in the water, and sprinkle [it] upon the tent, and
upon all the vessels, and upon the persons that were there, and upon him that touched a bone, or
one slain, or one dead, or a grave:



(k) One of the priests who is clean.
#BCV:Numbers 19:19
<h3><verse=Numbers 19:19>Numbers 19:19</verse></h3>



And the clean [person] shall sprinkle upon the unclean on the third day, and on the seventh day: and
on the seventh day he shall purify himself, and (l) wash his clothes, and bathe himself in water, and
shall be clean at even.



(l) Because he had been among them that were unclean: or else had touched the water as in (Num
19:21).
#BCV:Numbers 19:22
<h3><verse=Numbers 19:22>Numbers 19:22</verse></h3>



And whatsoever the unclean [person] toucheth shall be unclean; and the soul that toucheth (m) [it]
shall be unclean until even.

<page=324>(m) That is, unclean.

<h2>Numbers 20</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 20:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 20:1>Numbers 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=325>Then came the children of Israel, [even] the whole congregation, into the desert of Zin in the first

(a) month: and the people abode in Kadesh; and (b) Miriam died there, and was buried there.



(a) This was forty years after their departure from Egypt.



(b) Moses and Aaron's sister.
#BCV:Numbers 20:2
<h3><verse=Numbers 20:2>Numbers 20:2</verse></h3>



And there was no water for the congregation: and they (c) gathered themselves together against
Moses and against Aaron.



(c) Another rebellion was in Rephidim <bcv=Exo 17:1-16>(Exo. 17:1-16),</bcv> and this was in Kadesh.
#BCV:Numbers 20:8
<h3><verse=Numbers 20:8>Numbers 20:8</verse></h3>



Take the (d) rod, and gather thou the assembly together, thou, and Aaron thy brother, and speak ye
unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give forth his water, and thou shalt bring forth to them
water out of the rock: so thou shalt give the congregation and their beasts drink.



(d) With which you did miracles in Egypt and divided the sea.
#BCV:Numbers 20:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 20:10>Numbers 20:10</verse></h3>



And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them,
Hear now, ye rebels; (e) must we fetch you water out of this rock?



(e) The punishment which followed declared that Moses and Aaron did not believe the Lord's
promise as it appeared in (<bcv=Num 20:12>Num 20:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 20:12
<h3><verse=Numbers 20:12>Numbers 20:12</verse></h3>



And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to (f) sanctify me in the
eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I
have given them.



(f) That the children of Israel should believe and acknowledge my power and so honour me.
#BCV:Numbers 20:13
<h3><verse=Numbers 20:13>Numbers 20:13</verse></h3>

<page=326>This [is] the water of Meribah; because the children of Israel strove with the LORD, and he (h) was
sanctified in them.



(h) By showing himself almighty and maintaining his glory.
#BCV:Numbers 20:14
<h3><verse=Numbers 20:14>Numbers 20:14</verse></h3>



And Moses sent messengers from Kadesh unto the king of (i) Edom, Thus saith thy brother Israel,
Thou knowest all the travail that hath befallen us:



(i) Because Jacob or Israel was Esau's brother, who was called Edom.
#BCV:Numbers 20:21
<h3><verse=Numbers 20:21>Numbers 20:21</verse></h3>



Thus Edom refused to give Israel passage through his border: wherefore Israel (k) turned away from
him.



(k) To pass by another way.
#BCV:Numbers 20:24
<h3><verse=Numbers 20:24>Numbers 20:24</verse></h3>



Aaron shall be (l) gathered unto his people: for he shall not enter into the land which I have given
unto the children of Israel, because ye rebelled against my word at the water of Meribah.



(l) Read (<bcv=Gen 25:8>Gen 25:8</bcv>).

<h2>Numbers 21</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 21:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 21:1>Numbers 21:1</verse></h3>

<page=327>And [when] king Arad the Canaanite, which dwelt in the south, heard tell that Israel came by the (a)
way of the spies; then he fought against Israel, and took [some] of them prisoners.



(a) By that way which their spies, that searched the dangers found to he most safe.
#BCV:Numbers 21:4
<h3><verse=Numbers 21:4>Numbers 21:4</verse></h3>



And they journeyed from mount Hor by the way of the Red sea, to (b) compass the land of Edom:
and the soul of the people was much discouraged because of the way.



(b) For they were forbidden to destroy it, (<bcv=Deu 2:5>Deu 2:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 21:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 21:5>Numbers 21:5</verse></h3>



And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of
Egypt to die in the wilderness? for [there is] no bread, neither [is there any] water; and our soul
loatheth this light (c) bread.



(c) Meaning manna, which they thought did not nourish.
#BCV:Numbers 21:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 21:6>Numbers 21:6</verse></h3>



And the LORD sent (d) fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people; and much people
of Israel died.



(d) For they that were bitten by them were so inflamed by the poison of them, that they died.
#BCV:Numbers 21:14
<h3><verse=Numbers 21:14>Numbers 21:14</verse></h3>



Wherefore it is said in the (e) book of the wars of the LORD, What he did in the Red sea, and in the
brooks of Arnon,



(e) Which seems to be the book of the Judges, or as some think, a book which is lost.
#BCV:Numbers 21:17
<h3><verse=Numbers 21:17>Numbers 21:17</verse></h3>



Then Israel sang this song, Spring up, O well; (f) sing ye unto it:



(f) You that receive the convenience of it, give praise for it.
#BCV:Numbers 21:18
<h3><verse=Numbers 21:18>Numbers 21:18</verse></h3>

#BCV:num 21:18
<h3><verse=num 21:18>num 21:18</verse></h3>



with their staves. And from the wilderness [they went] to Mattanah:



(g) Only Moses and Aaron, the heads of the people, struck the rock with the rod or staff, which
gave water as a well that was deep digged.

#BCV:Numbers 21:24
<h3><verse=Numbers 21:24>Numbers 21:24</verse></h3>



And Israel smote him with the edge of the sword, and possessed his land from Arnon unto (h)
Jabbok, even unto the children of Ammon: for the border of the children of Ammon [was] (i)
strong.


(h) The river.


(i) For the people were tall and strong like giants; (<bcv=Deu 2:20>Deu 2:20</bcv>).

#BCV:Numbers 21:26
<h3><verse=Numbers 21:26>Numbers 21:26</verse></h3>


For (k) Heshbon [was] the city of Sihon the king of the Amorites, who had fought against the
former king of Moab, and taken all his land out of his hand, even unto Arnon.


(k) For if it had been the Moabites, the Israelites might not have possessed it, (<bcv=Deu 2:9>Deu 2:9</bcv>).

#BCV:Numbers 21:28
<h3><verse=Numbers 21:28>Numbers 21:28</verse></h3>


For there is a (l) fire gone out of Heshbon, a flame from the city of Sihon: it hath consumed Ar of
Moab, [and] the lords of the high places of Arnon.


(l) Meaning, wane.

#BCV:Numbers 21:29
<h3><verse=Numbers 21:29>Numbers 21:29</verse></h3>


Woe to thee, Moab! thou art undone, O people of (m) Chemosh: he hath given his sons that
escaped, and his daughters, into captivity unto Sihon king of the Amorites.


(m) Chemosh was the idol of the Moabites, (<bcv=I Ki 11:33>Kg1 11:33</bcv>) who was not able to defend his worshippers,
who took the idol for their father.

<h2>Numbers 22</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 22:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:1>Numbers 22:1</verse></h3>

<page=329>And the children of Israel set forward, and pitched in the plains of Moab on (a) this side Jordan [by]
Jericho.


(a) Being at Jericho, it was beyond the Jordan, but where the Israelites were, it was on this side.

#BCV:Numbers 22:4
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:4>Numbers 22:4</verse></h3>


And Moab said unto the (b) elders of Midian, Now shall this company lick up all [that are] round
about us, as the ox licketh up the grass of the field. And Balak the son of Zippor [was] king of the
Moabites at that time.


(b) Who were the heads and governors.

#BCV:Numbers 22:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:5>Numbers 22:5</verse></h3>



He sent messengers therefore unto Balaam the son of Beor to Pethor, which [is] by the (c) river of
the land of the children of his people, to call him, saying, Behold, there is a people come out from
Egypt: behold, they cover the face of the earth, and they abide over against me:



(c) That is, Euphrates, upon which stood this city Pethor.
#BCV:Numbers 22:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:7>Numbers 22:7</verse></h3>



And the elders of Moab and the elders of Midian departed with (d) the rewards of divination in
their hand; and they came unto Balaam, and spake unto him the words of Balak.



(d) Thinking to bribe him with gifts to curse the Israelites.
#BCV:Numbers 22:8
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:8>Numbers 22:8</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, Lodge here this night, and I will bring you word again, as the LORD shall
speak unto me: and (e) the princes of Moab abode with Balaam.



(e) Whom before he called elders: meaning the governors, and later calls them servants: that is,
subjects to their king.
#BCV:Numbers 22:12
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:12>Numbers 22:12</verse></h3>



And God (f) said unto Balaam, Thou shalt not go with them; thou shalt not curse the people: for
they [are] blessed.

<page=330>(f) He warned him by a dream, that he should not consent to the kings wicked request.
#BCV:Numbers 22:13
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:13>Numbers 22:13</verse></h3>



And Balaam rose up in the morning, and said unto the princes of Balak, Get you into your land: for
the LORD refuseth to give (g) me leave to go with you.



(g) Or else he would have been willing, covetousness had so blinded his heart.
#BCV:Numbers 22:16
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:16>Numbers 22:16</verse></h3>



And they came to Balaam, and said to him, Thus saith Balak the son of Zippor, (h) Let nothing, I
pray thee, hinder thee from coming unto me:



(h) The wicked seek by all means to further their naughty enterprises, though they know that God is
against them.
#BCV:Numbers 22:19
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:19>Numbers 22:19</verse></h3>



Now therefore, I pray you, tarry ye also here this night, that I may know what the LORD will say
unto me (i) more.



(i) Because he tempted God to require him contrary to his commandment, his petition was granted,
but it turned to his own condemnation.
#BCV:Numbers 22:22
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:22>Numbers 22:22</verse></h3>



And God's anger was kindled because he (k) went: and the angel of the LORD stood in the way for
an adversary against him. Now he was riding upon his ass, and his two servants [were] with him.



(k) Moved rather with covetousness than to obey God.
#BCV:Numbers 22:24
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:24>Numbers 22:24</verse></h3>




(l) But the angel of the LORD stood in a path of the vineyards, a wall [being] on this side, and a wall
on that side.



(l) The second time.
#BCV:Numbers 22:28
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:28>Numbers 22:28</verse></h3>



And the LORD (m) opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto
thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?

<page=331>(m) Gave her power to speak.
#BCV:Numbers 22:30
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:30>Numbers 22:30</verse></h3>



And the ass said unto Balaam, [Am] not I thine ass, upon which thou hast ridden ever (n) since [I
was] thine unto this day? was I ever wont to do so unto thee? And he said, Nay.



(n) Since you have been my master.
#BCV:Numbers 22:31
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:31>Numbers 22:31</verse></h3>



Then the LORD (o) opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the
way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face.



(o) For if the Lord does not open your eyes, you can see neither his anger or his love.
#BCV:Numbers 22:32
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:32>Numbers 22:32</verse></h3>



And the angel of the LORD said unto him, Wherefore hast thou smitten thine ass these three times?
behold, I went out to withstand thee, because [thy] (p) way is perverse before me:



(p) Both your heart is corrupt and your enterprise wicked.
#BCV:Numbers 22:35
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:35>Numbers 22:35</verse></h3>



And the angel of the LORD said unto Balaam, Go with the men: but only the (q) word that I shall
speak unto thee, that thou shalt speak. So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.



(q) Because his heart was evil, his charge was renewed, that he should not pretend ignorance.
#BCV:Numbers 22:36
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:36>Numbers 22:36</verse></h3>



And when Balak heard that Balaam was come, he went out to meet him unto a city of Moab, which
[is] in the (r) border of Arnon, which [is] in the utmost coast.



(r) Near the place where the Israelites camped.
#BCV:Numbers 22:38
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:38>Numbers 22:38</verse></h3>



And Balaam said unto Balak, Lo, I am come unto thee: have I now any power at all to say (s) any
thing? the word that God putteth in my mouth, that shall I speak.



(s) On my own I can say nothing, I will only speak what God reveals, whether it is good or bad.
#BCV:Numbers 22:41
<h3><verse=Numbers 22:41>Numbers 22:41</verse></h3>

#BCV:num 22:41
<h3><verse=num 22:41>num 22:41</verse></h3>



places of (t) Baal, that thence he might see the utmost [part] of the people.



(t) Where the idol Baal was worshipped.

<h2>Numbers 23</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 23:2
<h3><verse=Numbers 23:2>Numbers 23:2</verse></h3>

<page=333>And Balak did as Balaam had spoken; and (a) Balak and Balaam offered on [every] altar a bullock
and a ram.



(a) For among the Gentiles the kings often used to sacrifice, as did the priests.
#BCV:Numbers 23:4
<h3><verse=Numbers 23:4>Numbers 23:4</verse></h3>



And God (b) met Balaam: and he said unto him, I have prepared seven altars, and I have offered
upon [every] altar a bullock and a ram.



(b) Appeared to him.
#BCV:Numbers 23:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 23:5>Numbers 23:5</verse></h3>



And the LORD (c) put a word in Balaam's mouth, and said, Return unto Balak, and thus thou shalt
speak.



(c) Taught him what to say.
#BCV:Numbers 23:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 23:7>Numbers 23:7</verse></h3>



And he took up his parable, and said, Balak the king of Moab hath brought me from Aram, out of
the mountains of the east, [saying], Come, curse me Jacob, and come, (d) defy Israel.



(d) Cause everyone to hate and detest them.
#BCV:Numbers 23:9
<h3><verse=Numbers 23:9>Numbers 23:9</verse></h3>



For from the top of the rocks I see him, and from the hills I behold him: lo, the people shall dwell
alone, and shall not be reckoned among the (e) nations.



(e) But shall have religion and laws apart.
#BCV:Numbers 23:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 23:10>Numbers 23:10</verse></h3>



Who can count the (f) dust of Jacob, and the number of the fourth [part] of Israel? Let me (g) die
the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his!



(f) The infinite multitude, as the dust of the earth.

<page=334>(g) The fear of God's judgment caused him to wish to be joined to the household of Abraham: thus
the wicked have their consciences wounded when they consider God's judgments.
#BCV:Numbers 23:19
<h3><verse=Numbers 23:19>Numbers 23:19</verse></h3>




(h) God [is] not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he
said, and shall he not do [it]? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?



(h) God's enemies are compelled to confess that his government is just, constant, and without
change or repentance.
#BCV:Numbers 23:21
<h3><verse=Numbers 23:21>Numbers 23:21</verse></h3>



He hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob, neither hath he seen perverseness in Israel: the LORD his God
[is] with him, and the (i) shout of a king [is] among them.



(i) They triumph as victorious kings over their enemies.
#BCV:Numbers 23:23
<h3><verse=Numbers 23:23>Numbers 23:23</verse></h3>



Surely [there is] no enchantment against Jacob, neither [is there] any divination against Israel: (k)
according to this time it shall be said of Jacob and of Israel, What hath God wrought!



(k) Considering what God will work this time for the deliverance of his people, all the world will
wonder.
#BCV:Numbers 23:27
<h3><verse=Numbers 23:27>Numbers 23:27</verse></h3>



And Balak said unto Balaam, Come, I pray thee, I will bring thee unto another (l) place;
peradventure it will please God that thou mayest curse me them from thence.



(l) Thus the wicked imagine of God that what he will not grant in one place, he will do in another.

<h2>Numbers 24</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 24:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 24:1>Numbers 24:1</verse></h3>

<page=335>And when Balaam saw that it pleased the LORD to bless Israel, he went not, as at other times, to
seek for enchantments, but he set his face toward the (a) wilderness.



(a) Where the Israelites camped.
#BCV:Numbers 24:3
<h3><verse=Numbers 24:3>Numbers 24:3</verse></h3>



And he took up his parable, and said, Balaam the son of Beor hath said, and the man whose eyes (b)
are open hath said:



(b) His eyes were shut up before in respect to the clear visions which he saw after.
#BCV:Numbers 24:4
<h3><verse=Numbers 24:4>Numbers 24:4</verse></h3>



He hath said, which heard the words of God, which saw the vision of the Almighty, (c) falling [into
a trance], but having his eyes open:



(c) Though he lay as in a sleep, yet the eyes of his mind were open.
#BCV:Numbers 24:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 24:7>Numbers 24:7</verse></h3>



He shall pour the (d) water out of his buckets, and his seed [shall be] in many waters, and his king
shall be higher than (e) Agag, and his kingdom shall be exalted.



(d) His prosperity and posterity will be very great.



(e) Which name was common to the kings of Amalek.
#BCV:Numbers 24:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 24:10>Numbers 24:10</verse></h3>



And Balak's anger was kindled against Balaam, and he (f) smote his hands together: and Balak said
unto Balaam, I called thee to curse mine enemies, and, behold, thou hast altogether blessed [them]
these three times.



(f) In token of anger.
#BCV:Numbers 24:11
<h3><verse=Numbers 24:11>Numbers 24:11</verse></h3>



Therefore now flee thou to thy place: I thought to promote thee unto great honour; but, lo, the (g)
LORD hath kept thee back from honour.

<page=336>(g) Thus the wicked burden God when they cannot carry out their wicked enterprises.
#BCV:Numbers 24:14
<h3><verse=Numbers 24:14>Numbers 24:14</verse></h3>



And now, behold, I go unto my people: come [therefore, and] I will (h) advertise thee what this
people shall do to thy people in the latter days.



(h) He gave also wicked counsel to cause the Israelites to sin, that God might forsake them, (Num
31:16).
#BCV:Numbers 24:17
<h3><verse=Numbers 24:17>Numbers 24:17</verse></h3>



I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a (i) Star out of Jacob,
and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the (k) corners of Moab, and destroy all the
children of (l) Sheth.



(i) Meaning Christ.



(k) That is, the princes.



(l) He shall subdue all that resist: for of Sheth came Noah, and of Noah all the world.
#BCV:Numbers 24:19
<h3><verse=Numbers 24:19>Numbers 24:19</verse></h3>



Out of Jacob shall come he that shall have dominion, and shall destroy him that remaineth of the



(m) city.



(m) Of the Edomites.
#BCV:Numbers 24:20
<h3><verse=Numbers 24:20>Numbers 24:20</verse></h3>



And when he looked on Amalek, he took up his parable, and said, Amalek [was] the (n) first of the
nations; but his latter end [shall be] that he perish for ever.



(n) The Amalekites first made war against Israel, (<bcv=Num 14:45>Num 14:45</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 24:21
<h3><verse=Numbers 24:21>Numbers 24:21</verse></h3>



And he looked on the Kenites, and took up his parable, and said, Strong is thy dwellingplace, and
thou (o) puttest thy nest in a rock.



(o) Make yourself as strong as you can.
#BCV:Numbers 24:23
<h3><verse=Numbers 24:23>Numbers 24:23</verse></h3>

<page=337>And he took up his parable, and said, Alas, (p) who shall live when God doeth this!



(p) Some read, Oh who shall not perish when the enemy (that is, Antichrist) shall set himself up as
God?
#BCV:Numbers 24:24
<h3><verse=Numbers 24:24>Numbers 24:24</verse></h3>



And ships [shall come] from the coast of (q) Chittim, and shall afflict Asshur, and shall afflict Eber,
and (r) he also shall perish for ever.



(q) The Grecians and Romans.



(r) Meaning, Eber, or the Jews for rebelling against God.

<h2>Numbers 25</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 25:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 25:1>Numbers 25:1</verse></h3>

<page=338>And Israel abode in Shittim, and the people began to commit whoredom with the (a) daughters of
Moab.



(a) With the women.
#BCV:Numbers 25:3
<h3><verse=Numbers 25:3>Numbers 25:3</verse></h3>



And Israel (b) joined himself unto Baalpeor: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel.



(b) Worshipped the idol of the Moabites, which was in the hill Peor.
#BCV:Numbers 25:4
<h3><verse=Numbers 25:4>Numbers 25:4</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Moses, Take all the heads of the people, and hang them up before the
LORD (c) against the sun, that the fierce anger of the LORD may be turned away from Israel.



(c) Openly in the sight of all.
#BCV:Numbers 25:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 25:5>Numbers 25:5</verse></h3>



And Moses said unto the judges of Israel, Slay ye every one his (d) men that were joined unto
Baalpeor.



(d) Let him execute those that are under his charge.
#BCV:Numbers 25:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 25:6>Numbers 25:6</verse></h3>



And, behold, one of the children of Israel came and brought unto his brethren a Midianitish woman
in the sight of Moses, and in the sight of all the congregation of the children of Israel, (e) who
[were] weeping [before] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.



(e) Repenting that they had offended God.
#BCV:Numbers 25:11
<h3><verse=Numbers 25:11>Numbers 25:11</verse></h3>



Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, hath turned my wrath away from the
children of Israel, while he (f) was zealous for my sake among them, that I consumed not the
children of Israel in my jealousy.



(f) He was zealous to maintain my glory.
#BCV:Numbers 25:13
<h3><verse=Numbers 25:13>Numbers 25:13</verse></h3>

<page=339>And he shall have it, and his seed after him, [even] the covenant of an everlasting priesthood;
because he was zealous for his God, and made an (g) atonement for the children of Israel.



(g) He has pacified God's wrath.
#BCV:Numbers 25:18
<h3><verse=Numbers 25:18>Numbers 25:18</verse></h3>



For they vex you with their (h) wiles, wherewith they have beguiled you in the matter of Peor, and in
the matter of Cozbi, the daughter of a prince of Midian, their sister, which was slain in the day of
the plague for Peor's sake.



(h) Causing you to commit both corporal and spiritual fornication by Balaam's counsel, (Num
31:16;<bcv=Rev 2:14> Rev 2:14</bcv>).

<h2>Numbers 26</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 26:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 26:1>Numbers 26:1</verse></h3>

<page=340>And it came to pass after the (a) plague, that the LORD spake unto Moses and unto Eleazar the son
of Aaron the priest, saying,



(a) Which came because of their whoredom and idolatry.
#BCV:Numbers 26:3
<h3><verse=Numbers 26:3>Numbers 26:3</verse></h3>



And Moses and Eleazar the priest spake with them in the plains of Moab by Jordan (b) [near]
Jericho, saying,



(b) Where the river is near to Jericho.
#BCV:Numbers 26:9
<h3><verse=Numbers 26:9>Numbers 26:9</verse></h3>



And the sons of Eliab; Nemuel, and Dathan, and Abiram. This [is that] Dathan and Abiram, [which
were] famous in the congregation, who strove against Moses and against Aaron in the (c) company
of Korah, when they strove against the LORD:



(c) In that rebellion of which Korah was head.
#BCV:Numbers 26:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 26:10>Numbers 26:10</verse></h3>



And the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up together with Korah, when that company
died, what time the fire devoured two hundred and fifty men: and they (d) became a sign.



(d) That is, as an example that others should not complain and rebel against God's ministers.
#BCV:Numbers 26:19
<h3><verse=Numbers 26:19>Numbers 26:19</verse></h3>



The sons of Judah [were] Er and Onan: and Er and Onan died in the land of (e) Canaan.



(e) Before Jacob went into Egypt, (<bcv=Gen 38:3>Gen 38:3</bcv>,<bcv=Gen 38:7> Gen 38:7</bcv>,<bcv=Gen 38:10> Gen 38:10</bcv>,<bcv=Gen 46:12> Gen 46:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 26:51
<h3><verse=Numbers 26:51>Numbers 26:51</verse></h3>



These [were] the (f) numbered of the children of Israel, six hundred thousand and a thousand seven
hundred and thirty.



(f) This is the third time that they are numbered.
#BCV:Numbers 26:64
<h3><verse=Numbers 26:64>Numbers 26:64</verse></h3>

#BCV:num 26:64
<h3><verse=num 26:64>num 26:64</verse></h3>



when they numbered the children of Israel in the wilderness of Sinai.



(g) In which appears the great power of God, that so wonderfully increased his people.

<h2>Numbers 27</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 27:3
<h3><verse=Numbers 27:3>Numbers 27:3</verse></h3>

<page=342>Our father died in the wilderness, and he was not in the company of them that gathered themselves
together against the LORD in the company of Korah; but died in his own (a) sin, and had no sons.



(a) According as all men die, for as much as they are sinners.
#BCV:Numbers 27:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 27:5>Numbers 27:5</verse></h3>



And Moses brought their (b) cause before the LORD.



(b) That is, their matter to be judged, to know what he should determine, as he did all hard matters.
#BCV:Numbers 27:11
<h3><verse=Numbers 27:11>Numbers 27:11</verse></h3>



And if his father have no brethren, then ye shall give his inheritance unto his kinsman that is next to
him of his family, and he shall possess it: and it shall be unto the children of Israel a statute of (c)
judgment, as the LORD commanded Moses.



(c) Meaning, an ordinance to judge by.
#BCV:Numbers 27:16
<h3><verse=Numbers 27:16>Numbers 27:16</verse></h3>



Let the LORD, the God of the (d) spirits of all flesh, set a man over the congregation,



(d) Who as he has created, so he governs the hearts of all men.
#BCV:Numbers 27:17
<h3><verse=Numbers 27:17>Numbers 27:17</verse></h3>



Which may (e) go out before them, and which may go in before them, and which may lead them out,
and which may bring them in; that the congregation of the LORD be not as sheep which have no
shepherd.



(e) That is, govern them and do his duty, as in (<bcv=2Ch 1:10>Ch2 1:10</bcv>).

#BCV:Numbers 27:18
<h3><verse=Numbers 27:18>Numbers 27:18</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Moses, Take thee Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom [is] the spirit,
and (f) lay thine hand upon him;



(f) And so appoint him governor.
#BCV:Numbers 27:20
<h3><verse=Numbers 27:20>Numbers 27:20</verse></h3>

#BCV:num 27:20
<h3><verse=num 27:20>num 27:20</verse></h3>



of Israel may be obedient.



(g) Commend him to the people as suitable for the office and appointed by God.
#BCV:Numbers 27:21
<h3><verse=Numbers 27:21>Numbers 27:21</verse></h3>



And he shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall ask [counsel] for him after the (h) judgment
of Urim before the LORD: at his word shall they go out, and at his word they shall come in, [both]
he, and all the children of Israel with him, even all the congregation.



(h) According to his office: signifying that the civil magistrate could execute nothing but that which
he knew to be the will of God.
#BCV:Numbers 27:23
<h3><verse=Numbers 27:23>Numbers 27:23</verse></h3>



And he laid his hands upon him, and gave him a (i) charge, as the LORD commanded by the hand
of Moses.



(i) How he should govern himself in his office.

<h2>Numbers 28</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 28:2
<h3><verse=Numbers 28:2>Numbers 28:2</verse></h3>

<page=344>Command the children of Israel, and say unto them, My offering, [and] (a) my bread for my
sacrifices made by fire, [for] a sweet savour unto me, shall ye observe to offer unto me in their due
season.



(a) By bread he means all manner of sacrifice.
#BCV:Numbers 28:8
<h3><verse=Numbers 28:8>Numbers 28:8</verse></h3>



And the other lamb shalt thou offer at even: as the meat offering of the morning, and as the drink
offering thereof, thou shalt offer [it], (b) a sacrifice made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the LORD.



(b) The meat offering and drink offering of the evening sacrifice.
#BCV:Numbers 28:9
<h3><verse=Numbers 28:9>Numbers 28:9</verse></h3>



And on the sabbath day two lambs of the first year without spot, and two (c) tenth deals of flour
[for] a meat offering, mingled with oil, and the drink offering thereof:



(c) Of the measure ephah.
#BCV:Numbers 28:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 28:10>Numbers 28:10</verse></h3>



[This is] the burnt offering of every sabbath, beside the (d) continual burnt offering, and his drink
offering.



(d) Which was offered every day at morning and evening.
#BCV:Numbers 28:14
<h3><verse=Numbers 28:14>Numbers 28:14</verse></h3>



And their (e) drink offerings shall be half an hin of wine unto a bullock, and the third [part] of an
hin unto a ram, and a fourth [part] of an hin unto a lamb: this [is] the burnt offering of every month
throughout the months of the year.



(e) That is, the wine that will be poured on the sacrifice.
#BCV:Numbers 28:18
<h3><verse=Numbers 28:18>Numbers 28:18</verse></h3>



In the first day [shall be] an holy (f) convocation; ye shall do no manner of servile work [therein]:



(f) Or, solemn assembly.
#BCV:Numbers 28:26
<h3><verse=Numbers 28:26>Numbers 28:26</verse></h3>

<page=345>Also in the day of the firstfruits, when ye bring a new meat offering unto the LORD, after your (g)
weeks [be out], ye shall have an holy convocation; ye shall do no servile work:



(g) In counting seven weeks from the Passover to Whit Sunday, as in (<bcv=Lev 23:15>Lev 23:15</bcv>).

<h2>Numbers 29</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 29:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 29:1>Numbers 29:1</verse></h3>

<page=346>And in the (a) seventh month, on the first [day] of the month, ye shall have an holy convocation; ye
shall do no servile work: it is a day of blowing the trumpets unto you.



(a) Which contains part of September, and part of October.
#BCV:Numbers 29:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 29:6>Numbers 29:6</verse></h3>



Beside the burnt offering of the (b) month, and his meat offering, and the daily (c) burnt offering,
and his meat offering, and their drink offerings, according unto their manner, for a sweet savour, a
sacrifice made by fire unto the LORD.



(b) Which must be offered in the beginning of every month.



(c) Which is for morning and evening.
#BCV:Numbers 29:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 29:7>Numbers 29:7</verse></h3>



And ye shall have on the tenth [day] of this seventh month an holy (d) convocation; and ye shall
afflict your souls: ye shall not do any work [therein]:



(d) Which is the feast of reconciliation.
#BCV:Numbers 29:11
<h3><verse=Numbers 29:11>Numbers 29:11</verse></h3>



One kid of the goats [for] a sin offering; beside the sin offering of atonement, and the continual (e)
burnt offering, and the meat offering of it, and their drink offerings.



(e) That is, offered every morning and evening.
#BCV:Numbers 29:12
<h3><verse=Numbers 29:12>Numbers 29:12</verse></h3>



And on the fifteenth day of the seventh month ye shall have an holy (f) convocation; ye shall do no
servile work, and ye shall keep a feast unto the LORD seven days:



(f) Meaning, the feast of the tabernacles.
#BCV:Numbers 29:21
<h3><verse=Numbers 29:21>Numbers 29:21</verse></h3>



And their meat offering and their drink offerings for the bullocks, for the rams, and for the lambs,
[shall be] according to their number, after the (g) manner:

<page=347>(g) According to the ceremonies appointed to it.
#BCV:Numbers 29:39
<h3><verse=Numbers 29:39>Numbers 29:39</verse></h3>



These [things] ye shall do unto the LORD in your set feasts, beside your (h) vows, and your freewill
offerings, for your burnt offerings, and for your meat offerings, and for your drink offerings, and for
your peace offerings.



(h) Beside the sacrifices that you will vow or offer of your own minds.

<h2>Numbers 30</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 30:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 30:1>Numbers 30:1</verse></h3>

<page=348>And Moses spake unto the heads of the tribes (a) concerning the children of Israel, saying, This [is]
the thing which the LORD hath commanded.



(a) Because they might declare them to the Israelites.
#BCV:Numbers 30:4
<h3><verse=Numbers 30:4>Numbers 30:4</verse></h3>



And her father hear her vow, and her bond wherewith she hath bound her soul, and her father shall
hold his (b) peace at her: then all her vows shall stand, and every bond wherewith she hath bound
her soul shall stand.



(b) For in so doing he approves her.
#BCV:Numbers 30:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 30:5>Numbers 30:5</verse></h3>



But if her (c) father disallow her in the day that he heareth; not any of her vows, or of her bonds
wherewith she hath bound her soul, shall stand: and the LORD shall forgive her, because her father
disallowed her.



(c) By not approving or consenting to her vow.
#BCV:Numbers 30:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 30:6>Numbers 30:6</verse></h3>



And if she had at all an husband, when she vowed, or (d) uttered ought out of her lips, wherewith
she bound her soul;



(d) Either by oath, or solemn promise.
#BCV:Numbers 30:8
<h3><verse=Numbers 30:8>Numbers 30:8</verse></h3>



But if her husband disallowed her on the day that he heard [it]; then he shall make her vow which
she vowed, and that which she uttered with her lips, wherewith she bound her (e) soul, of none
effect: and the LORD shall forgive her.



(e) For she is in subjection to her husband, and can perform nothing without his consent.
#BCV:Numbers 30:9
<h3><verse=Numbers 30:9>Numbers 30:9</verse></h3>



But every vow of a widow, and of her that is divorced, wherewith they have bound their souls, shall
stand (f) against her.

<page=349>(f) For they are not under the authority of the man.
#BCV:Numbers 30:10
<h3><verse=Numbers 30:10>Numbers 30:10</verse></h3>



And if she vowed in her husband's (h) house, or bound her soul by a bond with an oath;



(h) Her husband being alive.
#BCV:Numbers 30:13
<h3><verse=Numbers 30:13>Numbers 30:13</verse></h3>



Every vow, and every binding oath to (h) afflict the soul, her husband may establish it, or her
husband may make it void.



(h) To mortify herself by abstinence or other bodily exercise.
#BCV:Numbers 30:14
<h3><verse=Numbers 30:14>Numbers 30:14</verse></h3>



But if her husband altogether hold his peace at her from (i) day to day; then he establisheth all her
vows, or all her bonds, which [are] upon her: he confirmeth them, because he held his peace at her
in the day that he heard [them].



(i) And warn her not the same day that he hears it, as in (<bcv=Num 30:8>Num 30:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 30:15
<h3><verse=Numbers 30:15>Numbers 30:15</verse></h3>



But if he shall any ways (k) make them void after that he hath heard [them]; then he shall bear her
iniquity.



(k) Not the same day he heard them, but some day after, the sin will be imputed to him and not to
her.

<h2>Numbers 31</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 31:3
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:3>Numbers 31:3</verse></h3>

<page=350>And Moses spake unto the people, saying, Arm some of yourselves unto the war, and let them go (a)
against the Midianites, and avenge the LORD of Midian.



(a) As he had commanded in (<bcv=Num 25:17>Num 25:17</bcv>), declaring also that the injury done against his people is
done against him.
#BCV:Numbers 31:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:6>Numbers 31:6</verse></h3>



And Moses sent them to the war, a thousand of [every] tribe, them and (b) Phinehas the son of
Eleazar the priest, to the war, with the holy instruments, and the trumpets to blow in his hand.



(b) For his great zeal that he bare for the Lord, (<bcv=Num 25:13>Num 25:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 31:8
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:8>Numbers 31:8</verse></h3>



And they slew the kings of Midian, beside the rest of them that were slain; [namely], Evi, and
Rekem, and Zur, and Hur, and Reba, five kings of Midian: (c) Balaam also the son of Beor they slew
with the sword.



(c) The false prophet who gave counsel how to cause the Israelites to offend their God.
#BCV:Numbers 31:12
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:12>Numbers 31:12</verse></h3>



And they brought the (d) captives, and the prey, and the spoil, unto Moses, and Eleazar the priest,
and unto the congregation of the children of Israel, unto the camp at the plains of Moab, which
[are] by Jordan [near] Jericho.



(d) As the women and little children.
#BCV:Numbers 31:15
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:15>Numbers 31:15</verse></h3>



And Moses said unto them, Have ye saved all the (e) women alive?



(e) As though he said, you should have spared none.
#BCV:Numbers 31:16
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:16>Numbers 31:16</verse></h3>



Behold, these caused the children of Israel, through the counsel of Balaam, to commit trespass
against the LORD (f) in the matter of Peor, and there was a plague among the congregation of the
LORD.

<page=351>(f) For worshipping of Peor.
#BCV:Numbers 31:17
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:17>Numbers 31:17</verse></h3>



Now therefore kill every male among the (g) little ones, and kill every woman that hath known man
by lying with him.



(g) That is, all the boy children.
#BCV:Numbers 31:23
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:23>Numbers 31:23</verse></h3>



Every thing that may abide the fire, ye shall make [it] go through the fire, and it shall be clean:
nevertheless it shall be (h) purified with the water of separation: and all that abideth not the fire ye
shall make go through the (i) water.



(h) The third day and before it is molten.



(i) It shall be washed.
#BCV:Numbers 31:28
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:28>Numbers 31:28</verse></h3>



And levy a tribute unto the LORD of the (k) men of war which went out to battle: one soul of five
hundred, [both] of the persons, and of the beeves, and of the asses, and of the sheep:



(k) Of the prey that falls to the soldiers.
#BCV:Numbers 31:30
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:30>Numbers 31:30</verse></h3>



And of the children of Israel's half, thou shalt take (l) one portion of fifty, of the persons, of the
beeves, of the asses, and of the flocks, of all manner of beasts, and give them unto the Levites,
which keep the charge of the tabernacle of the LORD.



(l) The Israelites who had not been at war, of every fiftieth paid one to the Lord: and the soldiers
one of every five hundred.
#BCV:Numbers 31:37
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:37>Numbers 31:37</verse></h3>



And the (m) LORD'S tribute of the sheep was six hundred and threescore and fifteen.



(m) This is the portion that the soldiers gave to the Lord.
#BCV:Numbers 31:40
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:40>Numbers 31:40</verse></h3>

<page=352>And (n) the persons [were] sixteen thousand; of which the LORD'S tribute [was] thirty and two
persons.



(n) Meaning, of the maids, or virgins who had not slept with a man.
#BCV:Numbers 31:42
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:42>Numbers 31:42</verse></h3>



And of the children of Israel's (o) half, which Moses divided from the men that warred,



(o) Of that part which was given to them in dividing the spoil.
#BCV:Numbers 31:47
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:47>Numbers 31:47</verse></h3>



Even of the (p) children of Israel's half, Moses took one portion of fifty, [both] of man and of
beast, and gave them unto the Levites, which kept the charge of the tabernacle of the LORD; as the
LORD commanded Moses.



(p) Which had not been at war.
#BCV:Numbers 31:50
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:50>Numbers 31:50</verse></h3>




(q) We have therefore brought an oblation for the LORD, what every man hath gotten, of jewels of
gold, chains, and bracelets, rings, earrings, and tablets, to make an atonement for our souls before
the LORD.



(q) The captains by the free offering acknowledge the great benefit of God in preserving his people.
#BCV:Numbers 31:53
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:53>Numbers 31:53</verse></h3>




([For] the men of war had taken spoil, every man for (r) himself.)



(r) And gave no portion to their captains.
#BCV:Numbers 31:54
<h3><verse=Numbers 31:54>Numbers 31:54</verse></h3>



And Moses and Eleazar the priest took the gold of the captains of thousands and of hundreds, and
brought it into the tabernacle of the congregation, [for] a (s) memorial for the children of Israel
before the LORD.



(s) that the Lord might remember the children of Israel.

<h2>Numbers 32</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 32:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 32:1>Numbers 32:1</verse></h3>

<page=353>Now the children of (a) Reuben and the children of Gad had a very great multitude of cattle: and
when they saw the land of Jazer, and the land of (b) Gilead, that, behold, the place [was] a place for
cattle;



(a) Reuben came from Leah, and Gad from Zilpah her handmaid.



(b) Which was named for the heap of stones that Jacob made as a sign of the covenant between him
and Laban in (<bcv=Gen 31:47>Gen 31:47</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 32:13
<h3><verse=Numbers 32:13>Numbers 32:13</verse></h3>



And the LORD'S anger was kindled against Israel, and he made them wander in the wilderness forty
years, until all the generation, that had done (c) evil in the sight of the LORD, was consumed.



(c) Because they complained and would not believe their report, which told the truth concerning the
land.
#BCV:Numbers 32:15
<h3><verse=Numbers 32:15>Numbers 32:15</verse></h3>



For if ye turn away from after him, he will yet again leave them in the wilderness; and (d) ye shall
destroy all this people.



(d) By your occasion.
#BCV:Numbers 32:17
<h3><verse=Numbers 32:17>Numbers 32:17</verse></h3>



But we ourselves will go ready armed before the children of Israel, until we have brought them unto
their (e) place: and our little ones shall dwell in the fenced cities because of the inhabitants of the
land.



(e) In the land of Canaan.
#BCV:Numbers 32:20
<h3><verse=Numbers 32:20>Numbers 32:20</verse></h3>



And Moses said unto them, If ye will do this thing, if ye will go (f) armed before the LORD to war,



(f) Before the Ark of the Lord.
#BCV:Numbers 32:21
<h3><verse=Numbers 32:21>Numbers 32:21</verse></h3>

<page=354>And will go all of you armed over Jordan before the LORD, until he hath driven out his (g) enemies
from before him,



(g) That is, the inhabitants of the land.
#BCV:Numbers 32:22
<h3><verse=Numbers 32:22>Numbers 32:22</verse></h3>



And the land be subdued before the LORD: then afterward ye shall return, and be guiltless before
the LORD, and before Israel; and this land shall be your possession (h) before the LORD.



(h) The Lord will grant you this land which you request, (<bcv=Jos 1:15>Jos 1:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 32:23
<h3><verse=Numbers 32:23>Numbers 32:23</verse></h3>



But if ye will not do so, behold, ye have sinned against the LORD: and be sure your sin (i) will find
you out.



(i) You shall assuredly be punished for your sin.
#BCV:Numbers 32:28
<h3><verse=Numbers 32:28>Numbers 32:28</verse></h3>



So concerning them Moses (k) commanded Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun, and the
chief fathers of the tribes of the children of Israel:



(k) Moses gave charge that his promise made to the Reubenites, and other, would be performed after
his death so that they would not break theirs.
#BCV:Numbers 32:31
<h3><verse=Numbers 32:31>Numbers 32:31</verse></h3>



And the children of Gad and the children of Reuben answered, saying, As the (l) LORD hath said
unto thy servants, so will we do.



(l) This is attributed to the Lord, which his messenger speaks.
#BCV:Numbers 32:33
<h3><verse=Numbers 32:33>Numbers 32:33</verse></h3>



And Moses gave unto them, [even] to the children of Gad, and to the children of Reuben, and unto
half the tribe of Manasseh the son of Joseph, the kingdom of Sihon king of the (m) Amorites, and
the kingdom of Og king of Bashan, the land, with the cities thereof in the coasts, [even] the cities
of the country round about.



(m) The Amorites dwelled on both sides of Jordan: but here he makes mention of them that dwelt
on this side: (<bcv=Jos 10:12>Jos 10:12</bcv>) he speaks of them that inhabited beyond Jordan.
#BCV:Numbers 32:41
<h3><verse=Numbers 32:41>Numbers 32:41</verse></h3>

#BCV:num 32:41
<h3><verse=num 32:41>num 32:41</verse></h3>




(n) That is the villages of Jair.

<h2>Numbers 33</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 33:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 33:1>Numbers 33:1</verse></h3>

<page=356>These [are] the (a) journeys of the children of Israel, which went forth out of the land of Egypt
with their armies under the hand of Moses and Aaron.



(a) From which they departed, and where they came.
#BCV:Numbers 33:4
<h3><verse=Numbers 33:4>Numbers 33:4</verse></h3>



For the Egyptians buried all [their] firstborn, which the LORD had smitten among them: upon their



(b) gods also the LORD executed judgments.



(b) Either meaning their idols, or their men of authority.
#BCV:Numbers 33:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 33:7>Numbers 33:7</verse></h3>



And they removed from Etham, and turned again unto (c) Pihahiroth, which [is] before Baalzephon:
and they pitched before Migdol.



(c) At the commandment of the Lord in (<bcv=Exo 14:2>Exo 14:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 33:38
<h3><verse=Numbers 33:38>Numbers 33:38</verse></h3>



And Aaron the priest went up into mount Hor at the commandment of the LORD, and died there,
in the fortieth year after the children of Israel were come out of the land of Egypt, in the first [day]
of the (d) fifth month.



(d) Which the Hebrews call <transhebrew>Ab,<english> and contains part of July and part of August.
#BCV:Numbers 33:52
<h3><verse=Numbers 33:52>Numbers 33:52</verse></h3>



Then ye shall drive out all the inhabitants of the land from before you, and destroy all their (e)
pictures, and destroy all their molten images, and quite pluck down all their high places:



(e) Which were set up in their high places to worship.

<h2>Numbers 34</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 34:2
<h3><verse=Numbers 34:2>Numbers 34:2</verse></h3>

<page=357>Command the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye come into the land of Canaan; (this
[is] the (a) land that shall fall unto you for an inheritance, [even] the land of Canaan with the coasts
thereof:)



(a) Meaning, the description of the land.
#BCV:Numbers 34:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 34:5>Numbers 34:5</verse></h3>



And the border shall fetch a compass from Azmon unto the (b) river of Egypt, and the goings out
of it shall be at the sea.



(b) Which was Nilus, or as some think Rhinocotura.
#BCV:Numbers 34:6
<h3><verse=Numbers 34:6>Numbers 34:6</verse></h3>



And [as for] the western border, ye shall even have the (c) great sea for a border: this shall be your
west border.



(c) Which is called the Mediterranean.
#BCV:Numbers 34:7
<h3><verse=Numbers 34:7>Numbers 34:7</verse></h3>



And this shall be your north border: from the great sea ye shall point out for you mount (d) Hor:



(d) Which is a mountain near Tyre and Sidon, and not that Hor in the wilderness where Aaron died.
#BCV:Numbers 34:11
<h3><verse=Numbers 34:11>Numbers 34:11</verse></h3>



And the coast shall go down from Shepham to Riblah, on the east side of Ain; and the border shall
descend, and shall reach unto the side of the sea of (e) Chinnereth eastward:



(e) Which in the Gospel is called the lake of Gennesaret.
#BCV:Numbers 34:18
<h3><verse=Numbers 34:18>Numbers 34:18</verse></h3>



And ye shall take one (f) prince of every tribe, to divide the land by inheritance.



(f) One of the heads or chief men of every tribe.
#BCV:Numbers 34:29
<h3><verse=Numbers 34:29>Numbers 34:29</verse></h3>

<page=358>These [are they] whom the LORD commanded to (g) divide the inheritance unto the children of
Israel in the land of Canaan.



(g) And be judges over every piece of ground that should fall to any by lot, to the intent that all
things might be done orderly and without contention.

<h2>Numbers 35</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 35:2
<h3><verse=Numbers 35:2>Numbers 35:2</verse></h3>

<page=359>Command the children of Israel, that they give unto the (a) Levites of the inheritance of their
possession (b) cities to dwell in; and ye shall give [also] unto the Levites suburbs for the cities round
about them.



(a) Because they had no inheritance assigned them in the land of Canaan.



(b) God would have them scattered through all the land, because the people might be preserved by
them in the obedience of God and his Law.
#BCV:Numbers 35:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 35:5>Numbers 35:5</verse></h3>



And ye shall measure from without the city on the east side (c) two thousand cubits, and on the
south side two thousand cubits, and on the west side two thousand cubits, and on the north side two
thousand cubits; and the city [shall be] in the midst: this shall be to them the suburbs of the cities.



(c) So that in all were three thousand, and in the compass of these two thousand, they might plant
and sow.
#BCV:Numbers 35:12
<h3><verse=Numbers 35:12>Numbers 35:12</verse></h3>



And they shall be unto you cities for refuge from the (d) avenger; that the manslayer die not, until he
stand before the congregation in judgment.



(d) Meaning, from the next of the kindred, who ought to pursue the cause.
#BCV:Numbers 35:14
<h3><verse=Numbers 35:14>Numbers 35:14</verse></h3>



Ye shall give three cities (e) on this side Jordan, and three cities shall ye give in the land of Canaan,
[which] shall be cities of refuge.



(e) Among the Reubenites, Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh, (<bcv=Deu 4:41>Deu 4:41</bcv>).
#BCV:Numbers 35:16
<h3><verse=Numbers 35:16>Numbers 35:16</verse></h3>



And if he (f) smite him with an instrument of iron, so that he die, he [is] a murderer: the murderer
shall surely be put to death.



(f) Wittingly, and willingly.
#BCV:Numbers 35:17
<h3><verse=Numbers 35:17>Numbers 35:17</verse></h3>

<page=360>And if he smite him with throwing a (g) stone, wherewith he may die, and he die, he [is] a murderer:
the murderer shall surely be put to death.



(g) That is, with a big and dangerous stone: in Hebrew, with a stone of his hand.
#BCV:Numbers 35:24
<h3><verse=Numbers 35:24>Numbers 35:24</verse></h3>



Then the congregation shall judge between the slayer and the (h) revenger of blood according to
these judgments:



(h) That is, his next kinsman.
#BCV:Numbers 35:25
<h3><verse=Numbers 35:25>Numbers 35:25</verse></h3>



And the congregation shall deliver the slayer out of the hand of the revenger of blood, and the
congregation shall restore him to the city of his refuge, whither he was fled: and he shall abide in it
unto the death of the (i) high priest, which was anointed with the holy oil.



(i) Under this figure is declared, that our sins could not be remitted, but by the death of the high
Priest Jesus Christ.
#BCV:Numbers 35:27
<h3><verse=Numbers 35:27>Numbers 35:27</verse></h3>



And the revenger of blood find him without the borders of the city of his refuge, and the revenger
of blood kill the (k) slayer; he shall not be guilty of blood:



(k) By the sentence of the judge.
#BCV:Numbers 35:29
<h3><verse=Numbers 35:29>Numbers 35:29</verse></h3>



So these [things] shall be for a (l) statute of judgment unto you throughout your generations in all
your dwellings.



(l) A law to judge murders done either on purpose, or accidentally.
#BCV:Numbers 35:31
<h3><verse=Numbers 35:31>Numbers 35:31</verse></h3>



Moreover ye shall take no satisfaction for the life of a murderer, which [is] (m) guilty of death: but
he shall be surely put to death.



(m) Who purposely committed murder.
#BCV:Numbers 35:33
<h3><verse=Numbers 35:33>Numbers 35:33</verse></h3>

<page=361>So ye shall not pollute the land wherein ye [are]: for blood it defileth the land: and the land cannot
be (n) cleansed of the blood that is shed therein, but by the blood of him that shed it.



(n) So God is mindful of the blood wrongfully shed, that he makes his dumb creatures demand
vengeance of it.

<h2>Numbers 36</h2>

#BCV:Numbers 36:1
<h3><verse=Numbers 36:1>Numbers 36:1</verse></h3>

<page=362>And the (a) chief fathers of the families of the children of Gilead, the son of Machir, the son of
Manasseh, of the families of the sons of Joseph, came near, and spake before Moses, and before the
princes, the chief fathers of the children of Israel:



(a) It seems that the tribes contended who might marry these daughters to have their inheritance:
and therefore the sons of Joseph proposed the matter to Moses.
#BCV:Numbers 36:2
<h3><verse=Numbers 36:2>Numbers 36:2</verse></h3>



And they said, The LORD commanded (b) my lord to give the land for an inheritance by lot to the
children of Israel: and my lord was commanded by the LORD to give the inheritance of
Zelophehad our brother unto his daughters.



(b) Meaning Moses.
#BCV:Numbers 36:4
<h3><verse=Numbers 36:4>Numbers 36:4</verse></h3>



And when the (c) jubile of the children of Israel shall be, then shall their inheritance be put unto the
inheritance of the tribe whereunto they are received: so shall their inheritance be taken away from
the inheritance of the tribe of our fathers.



(c) Signifying that at no time could it return, for in the Jubile all things returned to their own tribes.
#BCV:Numbers 36:5
<h3><verse=Numbers 36:5>Numbers 36:5</verse></h3>



And Moses commanded the children of Israel according to the word of the LORD, saying, The
tribe of the sons of Joseph hath said (d) well.



(d) For the tribe could not have continued, if the inheritance which was the maintenance of it
should have been alienated to others.
#BCV:Numbers 36:8
<h3><verse=Numbers 36:8>Numbers 36:8</verse></h3>



And every daughter, that possesseth an (e) inheritance in any tribe of the children of Israel, shall be
wife unto one of the family of the tribe of her father, that the children of Israel may enjoy every
man the inheritance of his fathers.



(e) When there is no male to inherit.
#BCV:Numbers 36:13
<h3><verse=Numbers 36:13>Numbers 36:13</verse></h3>

#BCV:num 36:13
<h3><verse=num 36:13>num 36:13</verse></h3>



of Moses unto the children of Israel in the plains of Moab by Jordan [near] Jericho.



(f) Concerning the ceremonial and judicial laws.

<h1>Deuteronomy</h1>


<h2>Deuteronomy 1</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:1>Deuteronomy 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=365>These [be] the words which Moses spake unto all Israel on (a) this side Jordan in the wilderness, in
the plain (b) over against the Red [sea], between Paran, and Tophel, and Laban, and Hazeroth, and
Dizahab.



The Argument - The wonderful love of God toward his Church is actively set forth in this book.
Even through their ingratitude and many rebellions against God, for the space forty years. (<bcv=Deu 9:7>Deu 9:7</bcv>)
they deserved to have been cut off from the number of his people, and forever to have been
deprived of the use of his holy word and ordinances: yet he ever preserved his Church even for his
own mercy's sake, and would still have his name called upon among them. Wherefore he brings
them into the land of Canaan, destroys their enemies, gives them their country, towns and goods,
and exhorts them by the example of their fathers (whose infidelity, idolatry, adulteries, complaining
and rebellions, he had most severely punished) to fear and obey the Lord, to embrace and keep his
law without adding to it or diminishing from it. For by his word he would be known to be their God,
and they his people, by his word he would govern his Church, and by the same they would learn to
obey him: by his word he would discern the false prophet from the true, light form darkness,
ignorance from knowledge, and his own people from all the other nations and infidels: teaching
them by it to refuse and detest, destroy and abolish whatever is not agreeable to his holy will, seem it
otherwise never so good or precious in the eyes of man. For this cause God promised to raise up
kings and governors, for the setting forth of his word and preservation of his Church: giving to
them a special charge for the executing of it: whom therefore he wills to exercise themselves
diligently in the continual study and meditation of the same: that they might learn to fear the Lord,
love their subjects, abhor covetousness and vices, and whatever offends the majesty of God. As he
had before instructed their fathers in all things belonging both to his spiritual service and also for
the maintenance of that society which is between men: so he prescribes here anew all such laws and
ordinances, which either concern his divine service, or else are necessary for a common good:
appointing to every estate and degree their charge and duty: as well, how to rule and live in the fear
of God, as to nourish friendship toward their neighbours, and to preserve the order which God has
established among men: threatening most horrible plagues to them that transgress his
commandments, and promising blessings and happiness to those who observe and obey them.



(a) In the country of Moab.



(b) So that the wilderness was between the sea and the plain of Moab.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:2>Deuteronomy 1:2</verse></h3>


<page=366>([There are] eleven days' [journey] from (c) Horeb by the way of mount Seir unto Kadeshbarnea.)



(c) In Horeb, or Sinai, forty years before the law was given: but because all that were then of age and
judgment were now dead, Moses repeats the same to the youth who either then were not born, or
had not judgment.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:4>Deuteronomy 1:4</verse></h3>



After he had slain (d) Sihon the king of the Amorites, which dwelt in Heshbon, and Og the king of
Bashan, which dwelt at Astaroth in Edrei:



(d) By these examples of God's favour, their minds are prepared to receive the law.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:5
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:5>Deuteronomy 1:5</verse></h3>



On this side Jordan, in the land of Moab, (e) began Moses to declare this law, saying,



(e) The second time.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:6>Deuteronomy 1:6</verse></h3>



The LORD our God spake unto us in (f) Horeb, saying, Ye have dwelt long enough in this mount:



(f) In the second year and second month, (<bcv=Num 10:11>Num 10:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:9
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:9>Deuteronomy 1:9</verse></h3>



And I spake (g) unto you at that time, saying, I am not able to bear you myself alone:



(g) By the counsel of Jethro my father-in-law, (<bcv=Exo 18:19>Exo 18:19</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:10>Deuteronomy 1:10</verse></h3>



The LORD your God hath (h) multiplied you, and, behold, ye [are] this day as the stars of heaven
for multitude.



(h) Not so much by the course of nature, as miraculously.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:12
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:12>Deuteronomy 1:12</verse></h3>



How can I myself alone (i) bear your cumbrance, and your burden, and your strife?



(i) Signifying how great a burden it is, to govern the people.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:13
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:13>Deuteronomy 1:13</verse></h3>

#BCV:deu 1:13
<h3><verse=deu 1:13>deu 1:13</verse></h3>



rulers over you.



(k) Whose godliness and uprightness is known.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:15
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:15>Deuteronomy 1:15</verse></h3>



So I took the chief of your tribes, (l) wise men, and known, and made them heads over you, captains
over thousands, and captains over hundreds, and captains over fifties, and captains over tens, and
officers among your tribes.



(l) Declaring what sort of men ought to have a public charge, read (<bcv=Exo 18:21>Exo 18:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:17
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:17>Deuteronomy 1:17</verse></h3>



Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; [but] ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall
not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment [is] (m) God's: and the cause that is too hard for
you, bring [it] unto me, and I will hear it.



(m) You are his Lieutenants.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:20
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:20>Deuteronomy 1:20</verse></h3>



And (n) I said unto you, Ye are come unto the mountain of the Amorites, which the LORD our
God doth give unto us.



(n) So that the fault was in themselves, that they did not sooner possess the inheritance promised.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:22
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:22>Deuteronomy 1:22</verse></h3>




(o) And ye came near unto me every one of you, and said, We will send men before us, and they
shall search us out the land, and bring us word again by what way we must go up, and into what
cities we shall come.



(o) Read (<bcv=Num 13:3>Num 13:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:25
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:25>Deuteronomy 1:25</verse></h3>



And they took of the fruit of the land in their hands, and brought [it] down unto us, and brought us
word again, and (p) said, [It is] a good land which the LORD our God doth give us.



(p) That is, Caleb, and Joshua; Moses prefers the better part to the greater, that is, two to ten.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:27
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:27>Deuteronomy 1:27</verse></h3>

<page=368>And ye murmured in your tents, and said, Because the LORD (q) hated us, he hath brought us forth
out of the land of Egypt, to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us.



(q) Such was the Jews unthankfulness, that they counted God's special love, hatred.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:28
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:28>Deuteronomy 1:28</verse></h3>



Whither shall we go up? our (r) brethren have discouraged our heart, saying, The people [is] greater
and taller than we; the cities [are] great and walled up to heaven; and moreover we have seen the
sons of the Anakims there.



(r) The other ten, not Caleb and Joshua.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:30
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:30>Deuteronomy 1:30</verse></h3>



The LORD your God (s) which goeth before you, he shall fight for you, according to all that he did
for you in Egypt before your eyes;



(s) Declaring that to renounce our own force, and constantly to follow our calling, and depend on
the Lord, is true boldness, and agreeable to God.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:38
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:38>Deuteronomy 1:38</verse></h3>



[But] Joshua the son of Nun, which standeth (t) before thee, he shall go in thither: encourage him:
for he shall cause Israel to inherit it.



(t) Who minister to you.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:39
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:39>Deuteronomy 1:39</verse></h3>



Moreover your (u) little ones, which ye said should be a prey, and your children, which in that day
had no knowledge between good and evil, they shall go in thither, and unto them will I give it, and
they shall possess it.



(u) Who were under twenty years of age, (<bcv=Num 14:31>Num 14:31</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:41
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:41>Deuteronomy 1:41</verse></h3>



Then ye answered and said unto me, We have sinned against the LORD, (x) we will go up and fight,
according to all that the LORD our God commanded us. And when ye had girded on every man his
weapons of war, ye were ready to go up into the hill.

<page=369>(x) This declares man's nature, who will do that which God forbids, and will not do that which he
commands.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:42
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:42>Deuteronomy 1:42</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto me, Say unto them, Go not up, neither fight; for I [am] (y) not among you;
lest ye be smitten before your enemies.



(y) Signifying that man has no strength, but when God is at hand to help him.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 1:45
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 1:45>Deuteronomy 1:45</verse></h3>



And ye returned and wept before the LORD; but the LORD would not (z) hearken to your voice,
nor give ear unto you.



(z) Because you rather showed your hypocrisy, than true repentance; rather lamenting the loss of
your brethren, than repenting for your sins.

<h2>Deuteronomy 2</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 2:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 2:1>Deuteronomy 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=370>Then (a) we turned, and took our journey into the wilderness by the way of the Red sea, as the
LORD spake unto me: and we compassed mount Seir (b) many days.



(a) They obeyed, after God had chastised them.



(b) Eight and thirty years, as in (<bcv=Deu 2:14>Deu 2:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 2:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 2:4>Deuteronomy 2:4</verse></h3>



And command thou the people, saying, Ye [are] to pass through the (c) coast of your brethren the
children of Esau, which dwell in Seir; and they shall be afraid of you: take ye good heed unto
yourselves therefore:



(c) This was the second time, before they had caused the Israelites to return, (<bcv=Num 20:21>Num 20:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 2:7
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 2:7>Deuteronomy 2:7</verse></h3>



For the LORD thy God hath (d) blessed thee in all the works of thy hand: he knoweth thy walking
through this great wilderness: these forty years the LORD thy God [hath been] with thee; thou hast
lacked nothing.



(d) And given you means, with which you may make recompence: also God will direct you by his
providence, as he has done.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 2:9
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 2:9>Deuteronomy 2:9</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto me, Distress not the Moabites, neither contend with them in battle: for I
will not give thee of their land [for] a possession; because I have given Ar unto the children (e) of
Lot [for] a possession.



(e) Which were the Moabites and Ammonites.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 2:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 2:10>Deuteronomy 2:10</verse></h3>



The (f) Emims dwelt therein in times past, a people great, and many, and tall, as the Anakims;



(f) Signifying that as these giants were driven out for their sins: so the wicked when their sins are ripe,
cannot avoid God's plagues.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 2:14
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 2:14>Deuteronomy 2:14</verse></h3>

<page=371>And the (g) space in which we came from Kadeshbarnea, until we were come over the brook Zered,
[was] thirty and eight years; until all the generation of the men of war were wasted out from among
the host, as the LORD sware unto them.



(g) He shows by this, that as God is true in his promise, so his threatenings are not in vain.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 2:15
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 2:15>Deuteronomy 2:15</verse></h3>



For indeed the (h) hand of the LORD was against them, to destroy them from among the host, until
they were consumed.



(h) His plague and punishment to destroy all that were twenty years old and above.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 2:20
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 2:20>Deuteronomy 2:20</verse></h3>




(That also was accounted a land (i) of giants: giants dwelt therein in old time; and the Ammonites
call them Zamzummims;



(i) Who called themselves Rephaims: that is, preservers, or physicians to heal and reform vices: but
were indeed Zamzummims, that is, wicked and abominable.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 2:24
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 2:24>Deuteronomy 2:24</verse></h3>



Rise ye up, take your journey, and pass over the river Arnon: behold, I have given into thine hand
Sihon the (k) Amorite, king of Heshbon, and his land: begin to possess [it], and contend with him in
battle.



(k) According to his promise made to Abraham, (<bcv=Gen 15:16>Gen 15:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 2:25
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 2:25>Deuteronomy 2:25</verse></h3>



This day will I (l) begin to put the dread of thee and the fear of thee upon the nations [that are]
under the whole heaven, who shall hear report of thee, and shall tremble, and be in anguish because
of thee.



(l) This declares that the hearts of men are in God's hands either to be made faint, or bold.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 2:29
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 2:29>Deuteronomy 2:29</verse></h3>




(As the (m) children of Esau which dwell in Seir, and the Moabites which dwell in Ar, did unto me;)
until I shall pass over Jordan into the land which the LORD our God giveth us.



(m) Because neither intreaty nor examples or others could move him, he could not complain of his
just destruction.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 2:30
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 2:30>Deuteronomy 2:30</verse></h3>

<page=372>But Sihon king of Heshbon would not let us pass by him: for the LORD thy God (n) hardened his
spirit, and made his heart obstinate, that he might deliver him into thy hand, as [appeareth] this day.



(n) God in his election and reprobation not only appoints the ends, but the means tending to the
same.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 2:34
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 2:34>Deuteronomy 2:34</verse></h3>



And we took all his cities at that time, and utterly destroyed the men, and the (o) women, and the
little ones, of every city, we left none to remain:



(o) God had cursed Canaan, and therefore he did not want any of the wicked race to be preserved.

<h2>Deuteronomy 3</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 3:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 3:1>Deuteronomy 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=373>Then we turned, and went up the way to Bashan: and Og the king of Bashan (a) came out against us,
he and all his people, to battle at Edrei.



(a) Therefore aside from the commandment of the Lord, they had just cause to fight against him.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 3:5
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 3:5>Deuteronomy 3:5</verse></h3>



All these cities [were] fenced with high walls, gates, and bars; beside (b) unwalled towns a great many.



(b) As villages and small towns.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 3:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 3:6>Deuteronomy 3:6</verse></h3>



And we utterly destroyed them, as we did unto Sihon king of Heshbon, utterly destroying the men,



(c) women, and children, of every city.



(c) Because this was God's appointment, therefore it may not be judged cruel.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 3:11
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 3:11>Deuteronomy 3:11</verse></h3>



For only Og king of Bashan remained of the remnant of giants; behold, his (d) bedstead [was] a
bedstead of iron; [is] it not in Rabbath of the children of Ammon? nine cubits [was] the length
thereof, and four cubits the breadth of it, after the cubit of a man.



(d) The more terrible this giant was, the greater reason they had to glorify God for the victory.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 3:14
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 3:14>Deuteronomy 3:14</verse></h3>



Jair the son of Manasseh took all the country of Argob unto the coasts of Geshuri and Maachathi;
and called them after his own name, Bashanhavothjair, unto (e) this day.



(e) Meaning, when he wrote this history.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 3:16
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 3:16>Deuteronomy 3:16</verse></h3>



And unto the Reubenites and unto the Gadites I gave from Gilead even unto the river Arnon half
the valley, and the border even unto the river (f) Jabbok, [which is] the border of the children of
Ammon;



(f) Which separates the Ammonites from the Amorites.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 3:18
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 3:18>Deuteronomy 3:18</verse></h3>

<page=374>And I commanded (g) you at that time, saying, The LORD your God hath given you this land to
possess it: ye shall pass over armed before your brethren the children of Israel, all [that are] meet for
the war.



(g) That is, the Reubenites, Gadites, and half Manasseh, as in (<bcv=Num 32:32>Num 32:32</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 3:21
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 3:21>Deuteronomy 3:21</verse></h3>



And I commanded Joshua at that time, saying, Thine eyes have seen all that the (h) LORD your God
hath done unto these two kings: so shall the LORD do unto all the kingdoms whither thou passest.



(h) So that the victories did not come by your own wisdom, strength or multitude.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 3:24
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 3:24>Deuteronomy 3:24</verse></h3>



O Lord GOD, thou hast begun to shew thy servant thy greatness, and thy mighty hand: for what
God [is there] in heaven or in earth, that can (i) do according to thy works, and according to thy
might?



(i) He speaks according to the common and corrupt speech of those who attribute power to idols
that only belongs to God.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 3:25
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 3:25>Deuteronomy 3:25</verse></h3>



I pray thee, let me go over, and see the good land that [is] beyond Jordan, that goodly (k) mountain,
and Lebanon.



(k) He means Zion, where the Temple should be built, and God honoured.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 3:27
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 3:27>Deuteronomy 3:27</verse></h3>



Get thee up into the top of Pisgah, and (l) lift up thine eyes westward, and northward, and
southward, and eastward, and behold [it] with thine eyes: for thou shalt not go over this Jordan.



(l) As before he saw by the spirits of prophecy the good mountain which was Zion: so here his eyes
were lifted up above the order of nature to behold all the plentiful land of Canaan.

<h2>Deuteronomy 4</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:1>Deuteronomy 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=375>Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to

(a) do [them], that ye may live, and go in and possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers
giveth you.



(a) For this doctrine stands not in bare knowledge, but in practice of life.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:2>Deuteronomy 4:2</verse></h3>



Ye shall (b) not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye (c) diminish [ought] from
it, that ye may keep the commandments of the LORD your God which I command you.



(b) Think not to be more wise than I am.



(c) God will not be served by halves, but will have full obedience.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:3>Deuteronomy 4:3</verse></h3>



Your (d) eyes have seen what the LORD did because of Baalpeor: for all the men that followed
Baalpeor, the LORD thy God hath destroyed them from among you.



(d) God's judgments executed on other idolaters ought to serve for our instruction, read (<bcv=Num 25:3>Num 25:3-</bcv>
4).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:4>Deuteronomy 4:4</verse></h3>



But ye that did (e) cleave unto the LORD your God [are] alive every one of you this day.



(e) And were not idolaters.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:6>Deuteronomy 4:6</verse></h3>



Keep therefore and do [them]; for this [is] your (f) wisdom and your understanding in the sight of
the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation [is] a wise and
understanding people.



(f) Because all men naturally desire wisdom, he shows how to attain it.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:7
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:7>Deuteronomy 4:7</verse></h3>

<page=376>For what nation [is there so] great, who [hath] God [so] (g) nigh unto them, as the LORD our God
[is] in all [things that] we call upon him [for]?



(g) Helping us, and delivering us out of all dangers, as in (<bcv=II Sa 7:23>Sa2 7:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:9
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:9>Deuteronomy 4:9</verse></h3>



Only take heed to thyself, and (h) keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine
eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons,
and thy sons' sons;



(h) He adds all these words, to show that we can never be careful enough to keep the law of God
and to teach it to our posterity.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:11
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:11>Deuteronomy 4:11</verse></h3>



And ye came near and stood under the mountain; and the mountain (i) burned with fire unto the
midst of heaven, with darkness, clouds, and thick darkness.



(i) The law was given with fearful miracles, to declare both that God was the author of it, and also
that no flesh was able to abide the rigour of the same.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:13
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:13>Deuteronomy 4:13</verse></h3>



And he declared unto you his covenant, which he commanded you to (k) perform, [even] ten
commandments; and he wrote them upon two tables of stone.



(k) God joins this condition to his covenant.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:15
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:15>Deuteronomy 4:15</verse></h3>



Take ye therefore good heed unto yourselves; for ye saw no (l) manner of similitude on the day [that]
the LORD spake unto you in Horeb out of the midst of the fire:



(l) Signifying, that destruction is prepared for all who make any image to represent God.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:19
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:19>Deuteronomy 4:19</verse></h3>



And lest thou lift up thine eyes unto heaven, and when thou seest the sun, and the moon, and the
stars, [even] all the host of heaven, shouldest be driven to worship them, and serve them, which the
LORD thy God hath (m) divided unto all nations under the whole heaven.



(m) He has appointed them to serve man.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:20
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:20>Deuteronomy 4:20</verse></h3>

#BCV:deu 4:20
<h3><verse=deu 4:20>deu 4:20</verse></h3>



Egypt, to be unto him a people of inheritance, as [ye are] this day.



(n) He has delivered you out of most miserable slavery and freely chosen you for his.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:22
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:22>Deuteronomy 4:22</verse></h3>



But I must die in this land, I must not go over Jordan: but (o) ye shall go over, and possess that good
land.



(o) Moses good affection appears in that while he himself is deprived of such an excellent treasure,
he does not envy those who must enjoy it.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:24
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:24>Deuteronomy 4:24</verse></h3>



For the LORD thy God [is] a (p) consuming fire, [even] a jealous God.



(p) To those that come not to him with love and reverence, but rebel against him.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:25
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:25>Deuteronomy 4:25</verse></h3>



When thou shalt beget children, and children's children, and ye shall have remained long in the land,
and shall (q) corrupt [yourselves], and make a graven image, [or] the likeness of any [thing], and shall
do evil in the sight of the LORD thy God, to provoke him to anger:



(q) Meaning by this all superstition and corruption of the true service of God.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:26
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:26>Deuteronomy 4:26</verse></h3>



I (r) call heaven and earth to witness against you this day, that ye shall soon utterly perish from off
the land whereunto ye go over Jordan to possess it; ye shall not prolong [your] days upon it, but shall
utterly be destroyed.



(r) Though men would abuse you, yet the insensible creatures will be witnesses of your disobedience.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:27
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:27>Deuteronomy 4:27</verse></h3>



And the LORD shall (s) scatter you among the nations, and ye shall be left few in number among
the heathen, whither the LORD shall lead you.



(s) So that his curse will make his former blessings ineffectual.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:29
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:29>Deuteronomy 4:29</verse></h3>

#BCV:deu 4:29
<h3><verse=deu 4:29>deu 4:29</verse></h3>



all thy (t) heart and with all thy soul.



(t) Not with outward show or ceremony, but with a true confession of your faults.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:31
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:31>Deuteronomy 4:31</verse></h3>




(For the LORD thy God [is] a merciful God;) he will not forsake thee, neither destroy thee, nor
forget the covenant of thy fathers which he (u) sware unto them.



(u) To certify to them even more the assurance of their salvation.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:32
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:32>Deuteronomy 4:32</verse></h3>



For ask now of the days that are past, which were before thee, since the day that God created man
upon the earth, and (x) [ask] from the one side of heaven unto the other, whether there hath been
[any such thing] as this great thing [is], or hath been heard like it?



(x) Man's negligence is partially the cause for his ignorance of God.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:34
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:34>Deuteronomy 4:34</verse></h3>



Or hath God assayed to go [and] take him a nation from the midst of [another] nation, by (y)
temptations, by signs, and by wonders, and by war, and by a mighty hand, and by a stretched out arm,
and by great terrors, according to all that the LORD your God did for you in Egypt before your eyes?



(y) By so manifest proofs that none could doubt of it.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:35
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:35>Deuteronomy 4:35</verse></h3>



Unto thee it was shewed, that thou mightest (z) know that the LORD he [is] God; [there is] none
else beside him.



(z) He shows the reason why God did these miracles.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:37
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:37>Deuteronomy 4:37</verse></h3>



And because (a) he loved thy fathers, therefore he chose their seed after them, and brought thee out
in his sight with his mighty power out of Egypt;



(a) Freely, and not because they deserved it.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:40
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:40>Deuteronomy 4:40</verse></h3>

#BCV:deu 4:40
<h3><verse=deu 4:40>deu 4:40</verse></h3>



it may (b) go well with thee, and with thy children after thee, and that thou mayest prolong [thy] days
upon the earth, which the LORD thy God giveth thee, for ever.



(b) God promises reward not for our merits, but to encourage us, and to assure us that our labour
will not be lost.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:45
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:45>Deuteronomy 4:45</verse></h3>



These [are] the (c) testimonies, and the statutes, and the judgments, which Moses spake unto the
children of Israel, after they came forth out of Egypt,



(c) The articles and points of the covenant.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 4:49
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 4:49>Deuteronomy 4:49</verse></h3>



And all the plain on this side Jordan eastward, even unto (d) the sea of the plain, under the springs
of Pisgah.



(d) That is, the salt sea.

<h2>Deuteronomy 5</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 5:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 5:3>Deuteronomy 5:3</verse></h3>

<page=380>The LORD (a) made not this covenant with our fathers, but with us, [even] us, who [are] all of us
here alive this day.



(a) Some read, God made not this covenant, that is, in such ample forth and with such signs and
wonders.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 5:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 5:4>Deuteronomy 5:4</verse></h3>



The LORD talked with you (b) face to face in the mount out of the midst of the fire,



(b) So plainly that you do not need to doubt it.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 5:7
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 5:7>Deuteronomy 5:7</verse></h3>



Thou shalt have none (c) other gods before me.



(c) God binds us to serve him only without superstition and idolatry.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 5:9
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 5:9>Deuteronomy 5:9</verse></h3>



Thou shalt not bow down thyself unto them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God [am] a (d)
jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth
[generation] of them that hate me,



(d) That is, of his honour, not permitting it to be given to others.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 5:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 5:10>Deuteronomy 5:10</verse></h3>



And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that (e) love me and keep my commandments.



(e) The first degree to keep the commandments, is to love God.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 5:13
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 5:13>Deuteronomy 5:13</verse></h3>



Six days (f) thou shalt labour, and do all thy work:



(f) Meaning, since God permits six days for our labours, we should willingly dedicate the seventh to
serve him wholly.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 5:16
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 5:16>Deuteronomy 5:16</verse></h3>


<page=381>(g) Honour thy father and thy mother, as the LORD thy God hath commanded thee; that thy days
may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth
thee.



(g) Not for a show, but with true obedience, and due reverence.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 5:21
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 5:21>Deuteronomy 5:21</verse></h3>



Neither shalt (h) thou desire thy neighbour's wife, neither shalt thou covet thy neighbour's house, his
field, or his male servant, or his female servant, his ox, or his donkey, or any [thing] that [is] thy
neighbour's.



(h) He not only speaks of that resolute will, but that there should be no motion or affection.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 5:22
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 5:22>Deuteronomy 5:22</verse></h3>



These words the LORD spoke to all your assembly on the mount from the midst of the fire, of the
cloud, and of the thick darkness, with a great voice: and he (i) added no more. And he wrote them in
two tables of stone, and delivered them to me.



(i) Teaching us by his example to be content with his word, and add nothing to it.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 5:29
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 5:29>Deuteronomy 5:29</verse></h3>



O (k) that there were such an heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep all my
commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children for ever!



(k) He requires nothing but obedience from us, showing also that we ourselves are the unveiling of it.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 5:32
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 5:32>Deuteronomy 5:32</verse></h3>



Ye shall observe to do therefore as the LORD your God hath commanded you: ye shall not (l) turn
aside to the right hand or to the left.



(l) You shall neither add nor take away, (<bcv=Deu 4:2>Deu 4:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 5:33
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 5:33>Deuteronomy 5:33</verse></h3>



Ye shall walk in all the ways which the LORD your God hath commanded you, that ye may (m) live,
and [that it may be] well with you, and [that] ye may prolong [your] days in the land which ye shall
possess.



(m) In the same way that God, by way of our obedience, gives us all happiness: so from disobeying
God proceed all our miseries.

<h2>Deuteronomy 6</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 6:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 6:2>Deuteronomy 6:2</verse></h3>

<page=383>That thou mayest (a) fear the LORD thy God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which
I command thee, thou, and thy son, and thy son's son, all the days of thy life; and that thy days may
be prolonged.



(a) A reverent face and love for God is the first beginning to keeping God's commandments.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 6:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 6:3>Deuteronomy 6:3</verse></h3>



Hear therefore, O Israel, and observe to do [it]; that it may be well with thee, and that ye may
increase mightily, as the LORD God of thy fathers hath promised thee, (b) in the land that floweth
with milk and honey.



(b) Which has an abundance of all things needed for man's life.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 6:7
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 6:7>Deuteronomy 6:7</verse></h3>



And thou shalt (c) teach them diligently to thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in
thy house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.



(teach: Heb. whet, or, sharpen)



(c) Some read, "You shall whet them upon your children": that is, that they may imprint them more
deeply in their memory.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 6:9
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 6:9>Deuteronomy 6:9</verse></h3>



And thou shalt write them upon the (d) posts of thy house, and on thy gates.



(d) That when you enter in you may remember them.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 6:12
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 6:12>Deuteronomy 6:12</verse></h3>




(e) [Then] beware lest thou shouldest forget the LORD, who brought thee forth from the land of
Egypt, from the house of bondage. (bondage: Heb. bondmen or, servants)



(e) Do not let wealth and ease cause you to forget God's mercies, by which you were delivered out
of misery.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 6:13
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 6:13>Deuteronomy 6:13</verse></h3>



Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt (f) swear by his name.

<page=384>(f) We must fear God, serve him only and confess his Name, which is done by swearing lawfully.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 6:16
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 6:16>Deuteronomy 6:16</verse></h3>



Ye shall not (g) tempt the LORD your God, as ye tempted [him] in Massah.



(g) By doubting his power, refusing lawful means, and abusing his graces.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 6:18
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 6:18>Deuteronomy 6:18</verse></h3>



And thou shalt do [that which is] right and good in the (h) sight of the LORD: that it may be well
with thee, and that thou mayest go in and possess the good land which the LORD swore to thy
fathers,



(h) Here he condemns all of man's good intentions.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 6:20
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 6:20>Deuteronomy 6:20</verse></h3>



[And] when (i) thy son shall ask thee in time to come, saying, What [mean] the testimonies, and the
statutes, and the judgments, which the LORD our God hath commanded you?



(i) God not only requires that we serve him all our lives, but also that we see that our posterity sets
forth his glory.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 6:23
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 6:23>Deuteronomy 6:23</verse></h3>



And he (k) brought us out from thence, that he might bring us in, to give us the land which he sware
unto our fathers.



(k) Nothing should move us more to true obedience than the great benefits which we have received
from God.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 6:25
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 6:25>Deuteronomy 6:25</verse></h3>



And it shall be our (l) righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandments before the LORD
our God, as he hath commanded us.



(l) Because no one can fully obey the law, we must turn to Christ to be justified by faith.

<h2>Deuteronomy 7</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 7:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 7:2>Deuteronomy 7:2</verse></h3>

<page=385>And when the LORD thy God shall deliver them (a) before thee; thou shalt smite them, [and] utterly
destroy them; thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor shew mercy unto them:



(a) Into thy power.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 7:5
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 7:5>Deuteronomy 7:5</verse></h3>



But thus shall ye deal with them; (b) ye shall destroy their altars, and break down their images, and
cut down their groves, and burn their graven images with fire.



(b) God would have his service pure without idolatrous ceremonies and superstitions. (<bcv=Deu 12:3>Deu 12:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 7:8
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 7:8>Deuteronomy 7:8</verse></h3>



But because the LORD (c) loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto
your fathers, hath the LORD brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the
house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt.



(c) Freely, finding no cause in you more than in others so to do.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 7:9
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 7:9>Deuteronomy 7:9</verse></h3>



Know therefore (d) that the LORD thy God, he [is] God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant
and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;



(d) And so put difference between him and idols.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 7:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 7:10>Deuteronomy 7:10</verse></h3>



And repayeth (e) them that hate him to their face, to destroy them: he will not be slack to him that
hateth him, he will repay him to his face.



(e) Meaning revealed, or in this life.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 7:12
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 7:12>Deuteronomy 7:12</verse></h3>



Wherefore it shall come to pass, if ye hearken to these judgments, and keep, and do them, that the
LORD thy God shall keep unto thee the covenant and the (f) mercy which he sware unto thy fathers:

<page=386>(f) This covenant is grounded in his free grace: therefore in recompensing their obedience, he
respects his mercy and not their merits.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 7:16
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 7:16>Deuteronomy 7:16</verse></h3>



And thou shalt consume all the people which the LORD thy God shall deliver thee; (g) thine eye
shall have no pity upon them: neither shalt thou serve their gods; for that [will be] a snare unto thee.



(g) We should not be merciful when God commands severity.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 7:20
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 7:20>Deuteronomy 7:20</verse></h3>



Moreover the LORD thy God will send the (h) hornet among them, until they that are left, and hide
themselves from thee, be destroyed.



(h) There is not a creature so small, that I will not arm it to fight on your side against them.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 7:22
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 7:22>Deuteronomy 7:22</verse></h3>



And the LORD thy God will put out those nations before thee by little and little: thou mayest not
consume them at once, lest the (i) beasts of the field increase upon thee.



(i) It is to your advantage that God does not accomplish his promise as soon as you would wish.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 7:25
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 7:25>Deuteronomy 7:25</verse></h3>



The graven images of their gods shall ye burn with fire: thou shalt not desire the silver or gold [that
is] on them, nor take [it] unto thee, lest thou (k) be snared therein: for it [is] an abomination to the
LORD thy God.



(k) And be enticed to idolatry.

<h2>Deuteronomy 8</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 8:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 8:1>Deuteronomy 8:1</verse></h3>



All the commandments which I command thee this day shall ye observe (a) to do, that ye may live,
and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers.



(a) Showing that it is not enough to hear the word, unless we express it by the example of our lives.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 8:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 8:2>Deuteronomy 8:2</verse></h3>

<page=387>And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the
wilderness, to humble thee, [and] to (b) prove thee, to know what [was] in thine heart, whether thou
wouldest keep his commandments, or no.



(b) Which is declared in afflictions, either by patience, or by grudging against God's visitation.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 8:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 8:3>Deuteronomy 8:3</verse></h3>



And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest
not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by (c) bread
only, but by every [word] that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live.



(c) Man does not live by meat only, but by the power of God, who gives it strength to nourish us.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 8:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 8:4>Deuteronomy 8:4</verse></h3>



Thy raiment waxed not old upon thee, neither did thy foot (d) swell, these forty years.



(d) As those that go barefoot.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 8:5
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 8:5>Deuteronomy 8:5</verse></h3>



Thou shalt also consider in thine heart, that, as a man chasteneth his son, [so] the LORD thy God (e)
chasteneth thee.



(e) So that his affliction are signs of his fatherly love toward us.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 8:9
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 8:9>Deuteronomy 8:9</verse></h3>



A land wherein thou shalt eat bread without scarceness, thou shalt not lack any [thing] in it; a land (f)
whose stones [are] iron, and out of whose hills thou mayest dig brass.



(f) Where there are mines of metal.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 8:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 8:10>Deuteronomy 8:10</verse></h3>



When thou hast eaten and art full, then thou shalt (g) bless the LORD thy God for the good land
which he hath given thee.



(g) To receive God's benefits and not be thankful, is to despise God in them.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 8:14
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 8:14>Deuteronomy 8:14</verse></h3>

<page=388>Then thine heart (h) be lifted up, and thou forget the LORD thy God, which brought thee forth out
of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage;



(h) By attributing God's benefits to your own wisdom and labour, or to good fortune.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 8:18
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 8:18>Deuteronomy 8:18</verse></h3>



But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for [it is] he that (i) giveth thee power to get wealth,
that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as [it is] this day.



(i) If things concerning this life proceed only from God's mercy, how much more do spiritual gifts
and everlasting life.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 8:19
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 8:19>Deuteronomy 8:19</verse></h3>



And it shall be, if thou do at all forget the LORD thy God, and walk after other gods, and serve
them, and worship them, I (k) testify against you this day that ye shall surely perish.



(k) Or take to witness the heaven and the earth, as in (<bcv=Deu 4:26>Deu 4:26</bcv>).

<h2>Deuteronomy 9</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 9:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 9:1>Deuteronomy 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=389>Hear, O Israel: Thou [art] to pass over Jordan (a) this day, to go in to possess nations greater and
mightier than thyself, cities great and fenced up to heaven,



(a) Meaning shortly.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 9:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 9:2>Deuteronomy 9:2</verse></h3>



A people great and tall, the children of the Anakims, whom thou knowest, and [of whom] thou hast



(b) heard [say], Who can stand before the children of Anak!



(b) By the report of the spies. (<bcv=Num 13:26>Num 13:26</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 9:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 9:3>Deuteronomy 9:3</verse></h3>



Understand therefore this day, that the LORD thy God [is] he which (c) goeth over before thee; [as]
a consuming fire he shall destroy them, and he shall bring them down before thy face: so shalt thou
drive them out, and destroy them quickly, as the LORD hath said unto thee.



(c) To guide you and govern you.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 9:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 9:4>Deuteronomy 9:4</verse></h3>



Speak not thou in thine heart, after that the LORD thy God hath cast them out from before thee,
saying, For my (d) righteousness the LORD hath brought me in to possess this land: but for the
wickedness of these nations the LORD doth drive them out from before thee.



(d) Man by himself deserves nothing but God's anger, and if God spares anyone it comes from his
great mercy.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 9:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 9:6>Deuteronomy 9:6</verse></h3>



Understand therefore, that the LORD thy God giveth thee not this good land to possess it for thy
righteousness; for thou [art] a (e) stiffnecked people.



(e) Like stubborn oxen who will not endure their masters yoke.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 9:7
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 9:7>Deuteronomy 9:7</verse></h3>

<page=390>Remember, [and] forget not, how thou provokedst the LORD thy God to wrath in the wilderness: (f)
from the day that thou didst depart out of the land of Egypt, until ye came unto this place, ye have
been rebellious against the LORD.



(f) He proves by the length of time, that their rebellion was great and intolerable.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 9:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 9:10>Deuteronomy 9:10</verse></h3>



And the LORD delivered unto me two tables of stone written with the (g) finger of God; and on
them [was written] according to all the words, which the LORD spake with you in the mount out of
the midst of the fire in the day of the assembly.



(g) That is, miraculously, and not by the hand of men.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 9:12
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 9:12>Deuteronomy 9:12</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto me, Arise, get thee down quickly from hence; for thy people which thou
hast brought forth out of Egypt have (h) corrupted [themselves]; they are quickly turned aside out
of the way which I commanded them; they have made them a molten image.



(h) As soon as man declines from the obedience of God, his ways are corrupt.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 9:14
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 9:14>Deuteronomy 9:14</verse></h3>




(i) Let me alone, that I may destroy them, and blot out their name from under heaven: and I will
make of thee a nation mightier and greater than they.



(i) Demonstrating that the prayers of the faithful are a bar to restrain God's anger so that he does
not consume all.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 9:16
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 9:16>Deuteronomy 9:16</verse></h3>



And I looked, and, behold, ye had sinned against the LORD your God, [and] had made you a
molten calf: ye had turned aside quickly out of the (k) way which the LORD had commanded you.



(k) That is, from the Law: in which he declares what the cause of our punishment is.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 9:20
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 9:20>Deuteronomy 9:20</verse></h3>



And the LORD was very angry with Aaron to have (l) destroyed him: and I prayed for Aaron also
the same time.



(l) By which he shows the danger they are in who have authority and do not resist wickedness.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 9:21
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 9:21>Deuteronomy 9:21</verse></h3>

#BCV:deu 9:21
<h3><verse=deu 9:21>deu 9:21</verse></h3>



[it] very small, [even] until it was as small as dust: and I cast the dust thereof into the brook that
descended out of the (m) mount.



(m) Horeb, or Sinai.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 9:23
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 9:23>Deuteronomy 9:23</verse></h3>



Likewise when the LORD sent you from Kadeshbarnea, saying, Go up and possess the land which I
have given you; then ye (n) rebelled against the commandment of the LORD your God, and ye
believed him not, nor hearkened to his voice.



(n) At the return of the spies.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 9:25
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 9:25>Deuteronomy 9:25</verse></h3>



Thus I fell down before the LORD (o) forty days and forty nights, as I fell down [at the first];
because the LORD had said he would destroy you.



(o) By which is signified that God requires earnest continuance in prayer.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 9:27
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 9:27>Deuteronomy 9:27</verse></h3>




(p) Remember thy servants, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; look not unto the stubbornness of this
people, nor to their wickedness, nor to their sin:



(p) The godly in their prayers ground on God's promise, and confess their sins.

<h2>Deuteronomy 10</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 10:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 10:3>Deuteronomy 10:3</verse></h3>

<page=392>And I made an ark [of] (a) shittim wood, and hewed two tables of stone like unto the first, and went
up into the mount, having the two tables in mine hand.



(a) Which is a wood of long endurance.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 10:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 10:4>Deuteronomy 10:4</verse></h3>



And he wrote on the tables, according to the first writing, the ten commandments, which the LORD
spake unto you in the mount out of the midst of the fire in the day of the (b) assembly: and the
LORD gave them unto me.



(b) When you were assembled to receive the Law.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 10:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 10:6>Deuteronomy 10:6</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel took their journey from Beeroth of the children of Jaakan to (c) Mosera:
there Aaron died, and there he was buried; and Eleazar his son ministered in the priest's office in his
stead.



(c) This mountain was also called Hor, (<bcv=Num 20:28>Num 20:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 10:8
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 10:8>Deuteronomy 10:8</verse></h3>



At that time the LORD separated the tribe of Levi, to bear the ark of the covenant of the LORD,
to stand before the LORD to (d) minister unto him, and to bless in his name, unto this day.



(d) That is, to offer sacrifice, and to declare the Law to the people.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 10:9
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 10:9>Deuteronomy 10:9</verse></h3>



Wherefore Levi hath no part nor (e) inheritance with his brethren; the LORD [is] his inheritance,
according as the LORD thy God promised him.



(e) So God turned the curse of Jacob to a blessing (<bcv=Gen 49:7>Gen 49:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 10:12
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 10:12>Deuteronomy 10:12</verse></h3>



And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God (f) require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God,
to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with
all thy soul,

<page=393>(f) For all our sins and transgressions God requires nothing but to turn to him and obey him.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 10:15
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 10:15>Deuteronomy 10:15</verse></h3>




(g) Only the LORD had a delight in thy fathers to love them, and he chose their seed after them,
[even] you above all people, as [it is] this day.



(g) Although he was Lord of heaven and earth, he chose no one but you.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 10:16
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 10:16>Deuteronomy 10:16</verse></h3>




(h) Circumcise therefore the foreskin of your heart, and be no more stiffnecked.



(h) Cut off all your evil affections, (<bcv=Jer 4:4>Jer 4:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 10:20
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 10:20>Deuteronomy 10:20</verse></h3>



Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God; him shalt thou serve, and to him shalt thou cleave, and (i) swear
by his name.



(i) Read (<bcv=Deu 6:13>Deu 6:13</bcv>).

<h2>Deuteronomy 11</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 11:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 11:2>Deuteronomy 11:2</verse></h3>

<page=394>And (a) know ye this day: for [I speak] not with your children which have not known, and which
have not seen the chastisement of the LORD your God, his greatness, his mighty hand, and his
stretched out arm,



(a) You who have seen God's graces with your eyes should be moved, rather than your children who
have only heard of them.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 11:5
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 11:5>Deuteronomy 11:5</verse></h3>



And (b) what he did unto you in the wilderness, until ye came into this place;



(b) As well concerning his benefits, as his corrections.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 11:8
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 11:8>Deuteronomy 11:8</verse></h3>



Therefore shall ye keep (c) all the commandments which I command you this day, that ye may be
strong, and go in and possess the land, whither ye go to possess it;



(c) Because you have felt both his chastisement and his benefits.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 11:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 11:10>Deuteronomy 11:10</verse></h3>



For the land, whither thou goest in to possess it, [is] not as the land of Egypt, from whence ye came
out, where thou sowedst thy seed, and wateredst [it] with thy (d) foot, as a garden of herbs:



(d) By making gutters for the water to come out of the Nile river to water the land.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 11:14
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 11:14>Deuteronomy 11:14</verse></h3>



That I will give [you] the rain of your land in his due season, (e) the first rain and the latter rain, that
thou mayest gather in thy corn, and thy wine, and thine oil.



(e) In the seed time, and toward harvest.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 11:16
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 11:16>Deuteronomy 11:16</verse></h3>



Take heed to yourselves, that your heart be not (f) deceived, and ye turn aside, and serve other gods,
and worship them;



(f) By devising foolish devotions according to your own fantasies.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 11:21
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 11:21>Deuteronomy 11:21</verse></h3>

<page=395>That your days may be multiplied, and the days of your children, in the land which the LORD sware
unto your fathers to give them, as (g) the days of heaven upon the earth.



(g) As long as the heavens and earth endure, (<bcv=2Pe 3:10>Pe2 3:10</bcv>, <bcv=2Pe 3:12>Pe2 3:12</bcv>).

#BCV:Deuteronomy 11:24
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 11:24>Deuteronomy 11:24</verse></h3>



Every place whereon the soles of (h) your feet shall tread shall be yours: from the wilderness and
Lebanon, from the river, the river Euphrates, even unto the uttermost (i) sea shall your coast be.



(h) This was accomplished in David and Solomon's time.



(i) The Mediterranean.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 11:28
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 11:28>Deuteronomy 11:28</verse></h3>



And a curse, if ye will not obey the commandments of the LORD your God, but turn aside out of
the way which I command you this day, to go after other gods, which ye have not (k) known.



(k) He reproves the malice of men who leave that which is certain to follow that which is uncertain.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 11:30
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 11:30>Deuteronomy 11:30</verse></h3>



[Are] they not on the other side Jordan, by the way (l) where the sun goeth down, in the land of the
Canaanites, which dwell in the champaign over against Gilgal, beside the plains of Moreh?



(l) Meaning, in Samaria.

<h2>Deuteronomy 12</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 12:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 12:1>Deuteronomy 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=396>These [are] the statutes and judgments, which ye shall observe to do in the land, which the LORD
God (a) of thy fathers giveth thee to possess it, all the days that ye live upon the earth.



(a) By which they are admonished to seek no other God.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 12:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 12:3>Deuteronomy 12:3</verse></h3>



And ye shall overthrow their altars, and break their pillars, and burn their (b) groves with fire; and ye
shall hew down the graven images of their gods, and destroy the names of them out of that place.



(b) In which they sacrificed to their idols.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 12:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 12:4>Deuteronomy 12:4</verse></h3>



Ye shall (c) not do so unto the LORD your God.



(c) You shall not serve the Lord with superstitions.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 12:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 12:6>Deuteronomy 12:6</verse></h3>



And thither ye shall bring your burnt offerings, and your sacrifices, and your tithes, and heave (d)
offerings of your hand, and your vows, and your freewill offerings, and the firstlings of your herds
and of your flocks:



(d) Meaning, the first fruits.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 12:7
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 12:7>Deuteronomy 12:7</verse></h3>



And there ye shall eat (e) before the LORD your God, and ye shall rejoice in all that ye put your
hand unto, ye and your households, wherein the LORD thy God hath blessed thee.



(e) Where his Ark shall be.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 12:8
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 12:8>Deuteronomy 12:8</verse></h3>



Ye shall not do after all [the things] that we do (f) here this day, every man whatsoever [is] right in his
own eyes.



(f) Not that they sacrificed after their fantasies, but that God would be served more purely in the
land of Canaan.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 12:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 12:10>Deuteronomy 12:10</verse></h3>

<page=397>But [when] ye go over Jordan, and dwell in the land which the LORD your God giveth you to inherit,
and [when] he giveth you (g) rest from all your enemies round about, so that ye dwell in safety;



(g) It was not enough to conquer unless God maintained them in rest under his protection.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 12:14
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 12:14>Deuteronomy 12:14</verse></h3>



But in the place which the LORD shall (h) choose in one of thy tribes, there thou shalt offer thy
burnt offerings, and there thou shalt do all that I command thee.



(h) As was declared ever by the placing of the ark in Shiloh 243 years, or as some write more that
300 years, and in other places till the temple was built.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 12:15
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 12:15>Deuteronomy 12:15</verse></h3>



Notwithstanding thou mayest kill and eat flesh in all thy gates, whatsoever thy soul lusteth after,
according to the (i) blessing of the LORD thy God which he hath given thee: the unclean and the
clean may eat thereof, (k) as of the roebuck, and as of the hart.



(i) As God has given you power and ability.



(k) Everyone may eat equally at home the beast appointed for sacrifice and the other.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 12:17
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 12:17>Deuteronomy 12:17</verse></h3>



Thou mayest not eat within thy gates the (l) tithe of thy corn, or of thy wine, or of thy oil, or the
firstlings of thy herds or of thy flock, nor any of thy vows which thou vowest, nor thy freewill
offerings, or heave offering of thine hand:



(l) Meaning, whatever was offered to the Lord, may not be eaten, except where he had appointed.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 12:23
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 12:23>Deuteronomy 12:23</verse></h3>



Only be sure that thou eat not the blood: for the blood (m) [is] the life; and thou mayest not eat the
life with the flesh.



(m) Because the life of beasts is in their blood.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 12:26
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 12:26>Deuteronomy 12:26</verse></h3>

<page=398>Only thy (n) holy things which thou hast, and thy vows, thou shalt take, and go unto the place which
the LORD shall choose:



(n) That which you will offer in sacrifice.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 12:28
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 12:28>Deuteronomy 12:28</verse></h3>



Observe and hear all these words which I command thee, that it may go (o) well with thee, and with
thy children after thee for ever, when thou doest [that which is] good and right in the sight of the
LORD thy God.



(o) God by promise binds himself to do good to those who obey his word.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 12:30
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 12:30>Deuteronomy 12:30</verse></h3>



Take heed to thyself that thou be not (p) snared by following them, after that they be destroyed
from before thee; and that thou enquire not after their gods, saying, How did these nations serve
their gods? even so will I do likewise.



(p) By following their superstitions and idolatries, and thinking to serve me by it.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 12:31
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 12:31>Deuteronomy 12:31</verse></h3>



Thou shalt not do so unto the LORD thy God: for every abomination to the LORD, which he
hateth, have they done unto their gods; for even their sons and their daughters they have (q) burnt in
the fire to their gods.



(q) They held nothing too dear to offer to their idols.

<h2>Deuteronomy 13</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 13:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 13:1>Deuteronomy 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=399>If there arise among you a prophet, or a dreamer of (a) dreams, and giveth thee a sign or a wonder,

(a) Who says that he has things revealed to him in dreams.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 13:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 13:2>Deuteronomy 13:2</verse></h3>



And the sign or the wonder come to pass, whereof he spake unto thee, saying, (b) Let us go after
other gods, which thou hast not known, and let us serve them;



(b) He shows that to which the false prophets tend.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 13:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 13:3>Deuteronomy 13:3</verse></h3>



Thou shalt not hearken unto the words of that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams: for the LORD
your God (c) proveth you, to know whether ye love the LORD your God with all your heart and
with all your soul.



(c) God ordains all these things that his may be known.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 13:5
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 13:5>Deuteronomy 13:5</verse></h3>



And that prophet, or that dreamer of dreams, shall be (d) put to death; because he hath spoken to
turn [you] away from the LORD your God, which brought you out of the land of Egypt, and
redeemed you out of the house of bondage, to thrust thee out of the way which the LORD thy
God commanded thee to walk in. So shalt thou put the evil away from the midst of thee.



(d) Being convicted by testimonies, and condemned by the judge.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 13:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 13:6>Deuteronomy 13:6</verse></h3>



If (e) thy brother, the son of thy mother, or thy son, or thy daughter, or the wife of thy bosom, or
thy friend, which [is] as thine own (f) soul, entice thee secretly, saying, Let us go and serve other
gods, which thou hast not known, thou, nor thy fathers;



(e) All natural affection must give place to God's honour.



(f) Whom you love as your life.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 13:9
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 13:9>Deuteronomy 13:9</verse></h3>

<page=400>But thou shalt surely kill him; (g) thine hand shall be first upon him to put him to death, and
afterwards the hand of all the people.



(g) As the witness is charged.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 13:14
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 13:14>Deuteronomy 13:14</verse></h3>



Then shalt (h) thou enquire, and make search, and ask diligently; and, behold, [if it be] truth, [and]
the thing certain, [that] such abomination is wrought among you;



(h) Which are appointed to see faults punished.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 13:16
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 13:16>Deuteronomy 13:16</verse></h3>



And (i) thou shalt gather all the spoil of it into the midst of the street thereof, and shalt burn with
fire the city, and all the spoil thereof every whit, for the LORD thy God: and it shall be an heap for
ever; it shall not be built again.



(i) Signifying that no idolatry is so detestable, nor more grievously to be punished, than of those
who once professed God.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 13:17
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 13:17>Deuteronomy 13:17</verse></h3>



And there shall cleave nought of the (k) cursed thing to thine hand: that the LORD may turn from
the fierceness of his anger, and shew thee mercy, and have compassion upon thee, and multiply thee,
as he hath sworn unto thy fathers;



(k) Of the spoil of that idolatrous and cursed city, read (<bcv=Deu 7:26>Deu 7:26</bcv>;<bcv=Jos 7:11> Jos 7:11</bcv>).

<h2>Deuteronomy 14</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 14:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 14:2>Deuteronomy 14:2</verse></h3>

<page=401>For thou [art] an holy people unto the LORD thy God, and the LORD hath chosen thee to be a (a)
peculiar people unto himself, above all the nations that [are] upon the earth.



(a) Therefore you should not follow the superstition of the Gentiles.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 14:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 14:4>Deuteronomy 14:4</verse></h3>




(b) These [are] the beasts which ye shall eat: the ox, the sheep, and the goat,



(b) This ceremonial Law instructed the Jews to seek a spiritual pureness, even in their meat and
drink.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 14:21
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 14:21>Deuteronomy 14:21</verse></h3>



Ye shall not eat [of] any thing that (c) dieth of itself: thou shalt give it unto the (d) stranger that [is]
in thy gates, that he may eat it; or thou mayest sell it unto an alien: for thou [art] an holy people unto
the LORD thy God. Thou shalt not seethe a kid in his mother's milk.



(c) Because their blood was not shed, but remains in them.



(d) Who is not of your religion.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 14:22
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 14:22>Deuteronomy 14:22</verse></h3>



Thou shalt truly (e) tithe all the increase of thy seed, that the field bringeth forth year by year.



(e) The tithes were ordained for the maintenance of the Levites, who had no inheritance.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 14:24
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 14:24>Deuteronomy 14:24</verse></h3>



And if the way be too long for thee, so that thou art not able to carry it; [or] if the place be too far
from thee, which the LORD thy God shall choose to set his name there, (f) when the LORD thy
God hath blessed thee:



(f) When he shall give thee abilities.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 14:26
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 14:26>Deuteronomy 14:26</verse></h3>

<page=402>And thou shalt bestow that money for whatsoever thy soul lusteth after, for oxen, or for sheep, or
for wine, or for strong drink, or for whatsoever thy soul desireth: (g) and thou shalt eat there before
the LORD thy God, and thou shalt rejoice, thou, and thine household,



(g) After the Priest has received the Lord's part.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 14:28
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 14:28>Deuteronomy 14:28</verse></h3>



At the end of three years thou shalt (h) bring forth all the tithe of thine increase the same year, and
shalt lay [it] up within thy gates:



(h) Besides the yearly tithes that were given to the Levites, these were laid up in store for the poor.

<h2>Deuteronomy 15</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 15:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 15:2>Deuteronomy 15:2</verse></h3>

<page=403>And this [is] the manner of the release: Every (a) creditor that lendeth [ought] unto his neighbour
shall release [it]; he shall not exact [it] of his neighbour, or of his brother; because it is called the
LORD'S release.



(a) He shall only release his debtors, who are not able to pay for that year.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 15:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 15:4>Deuteronomy 15:4</verse></h3>




(b) Save when there shall be no poor among you; for the LORD shall greatly bless thee in the land
which the LORD thy God giveth thee [for] an inheritance to possess it:



(b) For if your debtor is rich, he may be forced to pay.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 15:11
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 15:11>Deuteronomy 15:11</verse></h3>




(c) For the poor shall never cease out of the land: therefore I command thee, saying, Thou shalt (d)
open thine hand wide unto thy brother, to thy poor, and to thy needy, in thy land.



(c) To try your charity, (<bcv=Mat 26:11>Mat 26:11</bcv>).



(d) You shall be liberal.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 15:14
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 15:14>Deuteronomy 15:14</verse></h3>



Thou shalt (e) furnish him liberally out of thy flock, and out of thy floor, and out of thy winepress:
[of that] wherewith the LORD thy God hath blessed thee thou shalt give unto him.



(e) In token that you acknowledge the benefit which God has given you by his labours.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 15:17
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 15:17>Deuteronomy 15:17</verse></h3>



Then thou shalt take an aul, and thrust [it] through his ear unto the door, and he shall be thy servant



(f) for ever. And also unto thy maidservant thou shalt do likewise.



(f) To the year of Jubile, (<bcv=Lev 25:40>Lev 25:40</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 15:18
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 15:18>Deuteronomy 15:18</verse></h3>

<page=404>It shall not seem hard unto thee, when thou sendest him away free from thee; for he hath been
worth a double (g) hired servant [to thee], in serving thee six years: and the LORD thy God shall
bless thee in all that thou doest.



(g) For the hired servant served but three years, and he six.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 15:19
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 15:19>Deuteronomy 15:19</verse></h3>



All the firstling males that come of thy herd and of thy flock thou shalt sanctify unto the LORD thy
God: (h) thou shalt do no work with the firstling of thy bullock, nor shear the firstling of thy sheep.



(h) For they are the Lords.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 15:22
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 15:22>Deuteronomy 15:22</verse></h3>



Thou shalt eat it within thy gates: the unclean and the clean [person shall eat it] alike, (i) as the
roebuck, and as the hart.



(i) You will eat them, as well as the roe buck and other wild beasts.

<h2>Deuteronomy 16</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 16:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 16:1>Deuteronomy 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=405>Observe the month of (a) Abib, and keep the passover unto the LORD thy God: for in the month
of Abib the LORD thy God brought thee forth out of Egypt by night.



(a) Read (<bcv=Exo 13:4>Exo 13:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 16:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 16:2>Deuteronomy 16:2</verse></h3>



Thou shalt therefore (b) sacrifice the passover unto the LORD thy God, of the flock and the herd,
in the place which the LORD shall choose to place his name there.



(b) You shall eat the Easter lamb.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 16:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 16:3>Deuteronomy 16:3</verse></h3>



Thou shalt eat no leavened bread with it; seven days shalt thou eat unleavened bread therewith,
[even] the bread of (c) affliction; for thou camest forth out of the land of Egypt in haste: that thou
mayest remember the day when thou camest forth out of the land of Egypt all the days of thy life.



(c) Which signified the affliction which you had in Egypt.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 16:5
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 16:5>Deuteronomy 16:5</verse></h3>



Thou mayest (d) not sacrifice the passover within any of thy gates, which the LORD thy God giveth
thee:



(d) This was chiefly accomplished, when the temple was built.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 16:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 16:6>Deuteronomy 16:6</verse></h3>



But at the place which the LORD thy God shall choose to place his name in, there thou shalt
sacrifice the (e) passover at even, at the going down of the sun, at the season that thou camest forth
out of Egypt.



(e) Which was instituted to remind them of their deliverance our of Egypt and to encourage them
in the hope of Jesus Christ, of whom this lamb was a figure.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 16:9
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 16:9>Deuteronomy 16:9</verse></h3>



Seven weeks shalt thou (f) number unto thee: begin to number the seven weeks from [such time as]
thou beginnest [to put] the sickle to the corn.

<page=406>(f) Beginning the next morning after the Passover, <bcv=Lev 23:15>(Lev 23:15;</bcv> <bcv=Exo 13:4>Exo 13:4).</bcv>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 16:13
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 16:13>Deuteronomy 16:13</verse></h3>



Thou shalt (g) observe the feast of tabernacles seven days, after that thou hast gathered in thy corn
and thy wine:



(g) That is, the 15th day of the seventh month, (<bcv=Lev 23:34>Lev 23:34</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 16:17
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 16:17>Deuteronomy 16:17</verse></h3>



Every man [shall give] as he is (h) able, according to the blessing of the LORD thy God which he
hath given thee.



(h) According to the ability that God has given him.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 16:18
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 16:18>Deuteronomy 16:18</verse></h3>




(i) Judges and officers shalt thou make thee in all thy gates, which the LORD thy God giveth thee,
throughout thy tribes: and they shall judge the people with just judgment.



(i) He gave temporary authority to the people to choose magistrates for themselves.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 16:20
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 16:20>Deuteronomy 16:20</verse></h3>



That which (k) is altogether just shalt thou follow, that thou mayest live, and inherit the land which
the LORD thy God giveth thee.



(k) The magistrate must constantly follow the tenor of the law, and in noting decline from justice.

<h2>Deuteronomy 17</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 17:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 17:1>Deuteronomy 17:1</verse></h3>

<page=407>Thou shalt not sacrifice unto the LORD thy God [any] bullock, or sheep, wherein is (a) blemish, [or]
any evilfavouredness: for that [is] an abomination unto the LORD thy God.



(a) You shall not serve God for selfish means as the hypocrites do.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 17:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 17:2>Deuteronomy 17:2</verse></h3>



If there be found among you, within any of thy gates which the LORD thy God giveth thee, man or



(b) woman, that hath wrought wickedness in the sight of the LORD thy God, in transgressing his
covenant,



(b) Showing that the crime cannot be excused by the frailty of the person.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 17:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 17:3>Deuteronomy 17:3</verse></h3>



And hath gone and served other gods, and worshipped them, either the sun, or moon, or any of the
host of heaven, which I have not (c) commanded;



(c) By which he condemns all religion and serving of God which God has not commanded.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 17:7
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 17:7>Deuteronomy 17:7</verse></h3>



The hands of the (d) witnesses shall be first upon him to put him to death, and afterward the hands
of all the (e) people. So thou shalt put the evil away from among you.



(d) By which they declared that they testify the truth.



(e) To signify a common consent to maintain God's honour and true religion.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 17:9
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 17:9>Deuteronomy 17:9</verse></h3>



And thou shalt come unto the priests the Levites, and unto the (f) judge that shall be in those days,
and enquire; and they shall shew thee the sentence of judgment:



(f) Who will sentence as the priests counsel him by the Law of God.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 17:11
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 17:11>Deuteronomy 17:11</verse></h3>

<page=408>According to the sentence of the law which they shall teach thee, and according to the judgment
which they shall tell thee, (g) thou shalt do: thou shalt not decline from the sentence which they shall
shew thee, [to] the right hand, nor [to] the left.



(g) You shall obey their sentence that the controversy may have an end.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 17:12
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 17:12>Deuteronomy 17:12</verse></h3>



And the man that will do presumptuously, and will not hearken unto the priest that standeth to (h)
minister there before the LORD thy God, or unto the judge, even that man shall die: and thou shalt
put away the evil from Israel.



(h) So long as he is the true minister of God, and pronounces according to his word.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 17:15
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 17:15>Deuteronomy 17:15</verse></h3>



Thou shalt in any wise set [him] king over thee, whom the LORD thy God shall choose: [one] from
among thy brethren shalt thou set king over thee: thou mayest not set a (i) stranger over thee, which
[is] not thy brother.



(i) Who is not from your nation, lest he change true religion into idolatry, and bring you to slavery.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 17:16
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 17:16>Deuteronomy 17:16</verse></h3>



But he shall not multiply horses to himself, nor cause the people to return to (k) Egypt, to the end
that he should multiply horses: forasmuch as the LORD hath said unto you, Ye shall henceforth
return no more that way.



(k) To avenge their injuries and to take their best horses from them; (<bcv=I Ki 10:28>Kg1 10:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 17:17
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 17:17>Deuteronomy 17:17</verse></h3>



Neither shall he multiply wives to himself, that his heart (l) turn not away: neither shall he greatly
multiply to himself silver and gold.



(l) From the Law of God.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 17:18
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 17:18>Deuteronomy 17:18</verse></h3>



And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of
this (m) law in a book out of [that which is] before the (n) priests the Levites:



(m) Meaning, Deuteronomy.



(n) He shall cause it to be written by them, or he shall write it by their example.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 17:20
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 17:20>Deuteronomy 17:20</verse></h3>

<page=409>That his heart be not lifted up above his (o) brethren, and that he turn not aside from the
commandment, [to] the right hand, or [to] the left: to the end that he may prolong [his] days in his
kingdom, he, and his children, in the midst of Israel.



(o) By which is meant that kings should love their subjects as nature causes one brother to love
another.

<h2>Deuteronomy 18</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 18:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 18:1>Deuteronomy 18:1</verse></h3>

<page=410>The priests the Levites, [and] all the tribe of Levi, shall have no part nor inheritance with Israel: they
shall eat the offerings of the LORD made by fire, and his (a) inheritance.



(a) That is, the Lord's part of his inheritance.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 18:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 18:3>Deuteronomy 18:3</verse></h3>



And this shall be the priest's due from the people, from them that offer a sacrifice, whether [it be] ox
or sheep; and they shall give unto the priest the (b) shoulder, and the two cheeks, and the maw.



(b) The right shoulder, (<bcv=Num 18:18>Num 18:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 18:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 18:6>Deuteronomy 18:6</verse></h3>



And if a Levite come from any of thy gates out of all Israel, where he sojourned, and come with (c)
all the desire of his mind unto the place which the LORD shall choose;



(c) Meaning, to serve God whole heartedly, and not to seek ease.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 18:8
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 18:8>Deuteronomy 18:8</verse></h3>



They shall have like portions to eat, (d) beside that which cometh of the sale of his patrimony.



(d) Not forced to live from himself.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 18:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 18:10>Deuteronomy 18:10</verse></h3>



There shall not be found among you [any one] that maketh his son or his daughter to (e) pass
through the fire, [or] that useth divination, [or] an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch,



(e) Signifying they were purged by this ceremony of passing between two fires.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 18:13
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 18:13>Deuteronomy 18:13</verse></h3>



Thou shalt be (f) perfect with the LORD thy God.



(f) Without hypocrisy or mixture or false religion.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 18:15
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 18:15>Deuteronomy 18:15</verse></h3>

<page=411>The LORD thy God will raise up unto thee a (g) Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren,
like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken;



(g) Meaning, a continual succession of prophets, till Christ, the end of all prophets, comes.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 18:18
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 18:18>Deuteronomy 18:18</verse></h3>



I will raise them up a Prophet from among their brethren, like unto thee, and will put my words in
his (h) mouth; and he shall speak unto them all that I shall command him.



(h) A promise not only made to Christ, but to all that teach in his name, (<bcv=Isa 59:21>Isa 59:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 18:19
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 18:19>Deuteronomy 18:19</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, [that] whosoever will not hearken unto my words which he shall speak in
my name, I will (i) require [it] of him.



(i) By executing punishment on him.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 18:22
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 18:22>Deuteronomy 18:22</verse></h3>



When a prophet speaketh in the name of the LORD, if the thing (k) follow not, nor come to pass,
that [is] the thing which the LORD hath not spoken, [but] the prophet hath spoken it
presumptuously: thou shalt not be afraid of him.



(k) Under this sure note he comprises all the other tokens.

<h2>Deuteronomy 19</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 19:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 19:3>Deuteronomy 19:3</verse></h3>

<page=412>Thou shalt (a) prepare thee a way, and divide the coasts of thy land, which the LORD thy God
giveth thee to inherit, into three parts, that every (b) slayer may flee thither.



(a) Make an open and ready way.



(b) Who killed against his will, and bore no hatred in his heart.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 19:5
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 19:5>Deuteronomy 19:5</verse></h3>



As when a man goeth into the wood with his neighbour to hew wood, and his hand fetcheth a
stroke with the axe to cut down the tree, and the head slippeth from the helve, and lighteth upon his
neighbour, that he die; he (c) shall flee unto one of those cities, and live:



(c) That murder not be committed on murder.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 19:8
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 19:8>Deuteronomy 19:8</verse></h3>



And if the LORD thy God (d) enlarge thy coast, as he hath sworn unto thy fathers, and give thee all
the land which he promised to give unto thy fathers;



(d) When you go over Jordan to possess the whole land of Canaan.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 19:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 19:10>Deuteronomy 19:10</verse></h3>



That innocent blood be not shed in thy land, which the LORD thy God giveth thee [for] an
inheritance, and (e) [so] blood be upon thee.



(e) Lest you be punished for innocent blood.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 19:12
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 19:12>Deuteronomy 19:12</verse></h3>



Then the (f) elders of his city shall send and fetch him thence, and deliver him into the hand of the
avenger of blood, that he may die.



(f) The magistrates.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 19:13
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 19:13>Deuteronomy 19:13</verse></h3>



Thine (g) eye shall not pity him, but thou shalt put away [the guilt of] innocent blood from Israel,
that it may go well with thee.

<page=413>(g) Then whoever pardons murder, goes against the word of God.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 19:17
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 19:17>Deuteronomy 19:17</verse></h3>



Then both the men, between whom the controversy [is], shall stand before the (h) LORD, before
the priests and the judges, which shall be in those days;



(h) God's presence where his true ministers are assembled.

<h2>Deuteronomy 20</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 20:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 20:1>Deuteronomy 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=414>When (a) thou goest out to battle against thine enemies, and seest horses, and chariots, [and] a
people more than thou, be not afraid of them: for the LORD thy God [is] with thee, which brought
thee up out of the land of Egypt.



(a) Meaning, upon just occasion: for God does not permit his people to fight every time it seems
good to them.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 20:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 20:4>Deuteronomy 20:4</verse></h3>



For the LORD your God [is] he that (b) goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to
save you.



(b) Is present to defend you with his grace and power.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 20:5
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 20:5>Deuteronomy 20:5</verse></h3>



And the officers shall speak unto the people, saying, What man [is there] that hath built a new house,
and hath not (c) dedicated it? let him go and return to his house, lest he die in the battle, and another
man dedicate it.



(c) For when they first entered to dwell in a house, they gave thanks to God, acknowledging that
they had that benefit by his grace.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 20:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 20:6>Deuteronomy 20:6</verse></h3>



And what man [is he] that hath planted a vineyard, and hath not [yet] (d) eaten of it? let him [also]
go and return unto his house, lest he die in the battle, and another man eat of it.

(d) The Hebrew word signifies to make common or profane, (<bcv=Lev 19:25>Lev 19:25</bcv>)

#BCV:Deuteronomy 20:11
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 20:11>Deuteronomy 20:11</verse></h3>



And it shall be, if it make thee answer of (e) peace, and open unto thee, then it shall be, [that] all the
people [that is] found therein shall be tributaries unto thee, and they shall serve thee.



(e) If it accept peace.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 20:15
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 20:15>Deuteronomy 20:15</verse></h3>

<page=415>Thus shalt thou do unto all the cities [which are] very far off from thee, which [are] not of the cities
of these (f) nations.



(f) For God had appointed the Canaanites to be destroyed, and made the Israelites the executers of
his will, (<bcv=Deu 7:1>Deu 7:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 20:19
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 20:19>Deuteronomy 20:19</verse></h3>



When thou shalt besiege a city a long time, in making war against it to take it, thou shalt not destroy
the trees thereof by forcing an axe against them: for thou mayest eat of them, and thou shalt not cut
them down (for the (g) tree of the field [is] man's [life]) to employ [them] in the siege:



(g) Some read: For man shall be instead of the tree of the field, to come out in the siege against you.

<h2>Deuteronomy 21</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 21:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 21:1>Deuteronomy 21:1</verse></h3>

<page=416>If [one] be found (a) slain in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee to possess it, lying in
the field, [and] it be not known who hath slain him:



(a) This law declares how horrible murder is, seeing that because of one man a whole country will be
punished, unless remedy is found.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 21:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 21:4>Deuteronomy 21:4</verse></h3>



And the elders of that city shall bring down the heifer unto a rough (b) valley, which is neither eared
nor sown, and shall strike off the heifer's neck there in the valley:



(b) That the blood shed of the innocent beasts in a solitary place, might make them abhor the fact.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 21:8
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 21:8>Deuteronomy 21:8</verse></h3>



Be merciful, (c) O LORD, unto thy people Israel, whom thou hast redeemed, and lay not innocent
blood unto thy people of Israel's charge. And the blood shall be forgiven them.



(c) This was the prayer, which the priests made in the audience of the people.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 21:12
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 21:12>Deuteronomy 21:12</verse></h3>



Then thou shalt bring her home to thine house; (d) and she shall shave her head, and pare her nails;



(d) Signifying that her former life must be changed before she could be joined to the people of God.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 21:13
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 21:13>Deuteronomy 21:13</verse></h3>



And she shall put the raiment of her captivity from off her, and shall remain in thine house, (e) and
bewail her father and her mother a full month: and after that thou shalt go in unto her, and be her
husband, and she shall be thy (f) wife.



(e) As having renounced parents and country.



(f) This was only allowed in the wars, otherwise the Israelites could not marry strangers.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 21:15
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 21:15>Deuteronomy 21:15</verse></h3>



If a man have two wives, one beloved, and another (g) hated, and they have born him children,
[both] the beloved and the hated; and [if] the firstborn son be hers that was hated:

<page=417>(g) This declares that the plurality of wives came from a corrupt affection.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 21:17
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 21:17>Deuteronomy 21:17</verse></h3>



But he shall acknowledge the son of the hated [for] the firstborn, by giving him a (h) double portion
of all that he hath: for he [is] the beginning of his strength; the right of the firstborn [is] (i) his.



(h) As much as to two of the others.



(i) Unless he is unworthy, as Reuben, Jacob's son, was.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 21:18
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 21:18>Deuteronomy 21:18</verse></h3>



If a man have a stubborn and rebellious son, which will not obey the voice of his father, or the
voice of his (k) mother, and [that], when they have chastened him, will not hearken unto them:



(k) For it is the mother's duty also to instruct her children.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 21:21
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 21:21>Deuteronomy 21:21</verse></h3>



And all the men of his city shall (l) stone him with stones, that he die: so shalt thou put evil away
from among you; and all Israel shall hear, and fear.



(l) A death which was also appointed for blasphemers and idolaters: so that to disobey the parents is
most horrible.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 21:23
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 21:23>Deuteronomy 21:23</verse></h3>



His body shall not remain (m) all night upon the tree, but thou shalt in any wise bury him that day;



(for he that is hanged [is] accursed of God;) that thy land be not defiled, which the LORD thy God
giveth thee [for] an inheritance.



(m) For God's law is satisfied by his death, and nature abhors cruelty.

<h2>Deuteronomy 22</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 22:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 22:1>Deuteronomy 22:1</verse></h3>

<page=418>Thou shalt not see thy brother's ox or his sheep go astray, and (a) hide thyself from them: thou shalt
in any case bring them again unto thy brother.



(a) As though your did not see it.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 22:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 22:2>Deuteronomy 22:2</verse></h3>



And if thy brother [be] not (b) nigh unto thee, or if thou know him not, then thou shalt bring it
unto thine own house, and it shall be with thee until thy brother seek after it, and thou shalt restore
it to him again.



(b) Showing that brotherly affection must be shown, not only to those who dwell near to us, but also
to those who are far off.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 22:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 22:3>Deuteronomy 22:3</verse></h3>



In like manner shalt thou do with his (c) ass; and so shalt thou do with his raiment; and with all lost
thing of thy brother's, which he hath lost, and thou hast found, shalt thou do likewise: thou mayest
not hide thyself.



(c) You are bound to do much more for your neighbour.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 22:5
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 22:5>Deuteronomy 22:5</verse></h3>



The (d) woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a
woman's garment: for all that do so [are] abomination unto the LORD thy God.



(d) For that alters the order of nature, and shows that you despise God.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 22:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 22:6>Deuteronomy 22:6</verse></h3>



If a bird's nest chance to be before thee in the way in any tree, or on the ground, [whether they be]
young ones, or eggs, and the dam sitting upon the young, or upon the eggs, (e) thou shalt not take
the dam with the young:



(e) If God detests cruelty done to little birds, how much more to man, made according to his image?
#BCV:Deuteronomy 22:9
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 22:9>Deuteronomy 22:9</verse></h3>

<page=419>Thou shalt not (f) sow thy vineyard with divers seeds: lest the fruit of thy seed which thou hast sown,
and the fruit of thy vineyard, be defiled.



(f) The tenor of this law is to walk in simplicity and not to be curious about new fads.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 22:14
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 22:14>Deuteronomy 22:14</verse></h3>



And give (g) occasions of speech against her, and bring up an evil name upon her, and say, I took
this woman, and when I came to her, I found her not a maid:



(g) That is, be an occasion that she is slandered.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 22:17
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 22:17>Deuteronomy 22:17</verse></h3>



And, lo, he hath given occasions of speech [against her], saying, I found not thy daughter a maid;
and yet these [are the tokens of] my daughter's virginity. And they shall spread the (h) cloth before
the elders of the city.



(h) Meaning, the sheet, in which the signs of her virginity were.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 22:19
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 22:19>Deuteronomy 22:19</verse></h3>



And they shall amerce him in an hundred [shekels] of silver, and give [them] unto the father (i) of
the damsel, because he hath brought up an evil name upon a virgin of Israel: and she shall be his
wife; he may not put her away all his days.



(i) For the fault of the child becomes the shame of the parents: therefore he was recompensed when
she was faultless.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 22:26
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 22:26>Deuteronomy 22:26</verse></h3>



But unto the damsel thou shalt do nothing; [there is] in the damsel no sin [worthy] of death: for as
when a man riseth against his neighbour, and slayeth him, even so (k) [is] this matter:



(k) Meaning, that the innocent cannot be punished.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 22:30
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 22:30>Deuteronomy 22:30</verse></h3>



A man shall not (l) take his father's wife, nor discover his father's skirt.



(l) He shall not lie with his stepmother, meaning by this all other variations forbidden in <bcv=Lev 18:1-30>(Lev. 18:1-30).</bcv>

<h2>Deuteronomy 23</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 23:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 23:1>Deuteronomy 23:1</verse></h3>

<page=420>He that is wounded in the stones, or hath his privy member cut off, (a) shall not enter into the
congregation of the LORD.



(a) Either to bear office, or to marry a wife.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 23:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 23:2>Deuteronomy 23:2</verse></h3>




(b) A bastard shall not enter into the congregation of the LORD; even to his tenth generation shall
he not enter into the congregation of the LORD.



(b) This was to cause them to live chastely, that their posterity might not be rejected.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 23:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 23:4>Deuteronomy 23:4</verse></h3>



Because they (c) met you not with bread and with water in the way, when ye came forth out of
Egypt; and because they hired against thee Balaam the son of Beor of Pethor of Mesopotamia, to
curse thee.



(c) By this he condemns all who do not aid the children of God in their calling.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 23:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 23:6>Deuteronomy 23:6</verse></h3>



Thou (d) shalt not seek their peace nor their prosperity all thy days for ever.



(d) You shall have nothing to do with them.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 23:8
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 23:8>Deuteronomy 23:8</verse></h3>



The children that are begotten (e) of them shall enter into the congregation of the LORD in their
third generation.



(e) If the fathers have renounced their idolatry, and received circumcision.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 23:12
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 23:12>Deuteronomy 23:12</verse></h3>



Thou shalt have a place also without the camp, whither
thou shalt (f) go forth abroad:



(f) For the necessities of nature.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 23:13
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 23:13>Deuteronomy 23:13</verse></h3>

<page=421>And thou shalt have a paddle upon thy weapon; and it shall be, when thou wilt ease thyself abroad,
thou shalt dig therewith, and shalt turn back and (g) cover that which cometh from thee:



(g) Meaning by this that his people should be pure both in body and soul.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 23:15
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 23:15>Deuteronomy 23:15</verse></h3>



Thou shalt not (h) deliver unto his master the servant which is escaped from his master unto thee:



(h) This is meant of the heathen , who fled because of their masters' cruelty, and embrace the true
religion.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 23:18
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 23:18>Deuteronomy 23:18</verse></h3>



Thou shalt not bring the (i) hire of a whore, or the price of a dog, into the house of the LORD thy
God for any vow: for even both these [are] abomination unto the LORD thy God.



(i) Forbidding that any income gained from evil things should be applied to the service of God, (Mic
2:7).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 23:20
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 23:20>Deuteronomy 23:20</verse></h3>



Unto a (k) stranger thou mayest lend upon usury; but unto thy brother thou shalt not lend upon
usury: that the LORD thy God may (l) bless thee in all that thou settest thine hand to in the land
whither thou goest to possess it.



(k) This was permitted for a time because of the hardness of their hearts.



(l) If you show charity to your brother, God will declare his love toward you.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 23:23
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 23:23>Deuteronomy 23:23</verse></h3>



That which is gone out of thy lips thou shalt (m) keep and perform; [even] a freewill offering,
according as thou hast vowed unto the LORD thy God, which thou hast promised with thy mouth.



(m) If the vow is lawful and godly.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 23:24
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 23:24>Deuteronomy 23:24</verse></h3>



When thou comest into (n) thy neighbour's vineyard, then thou mayest eat grapes thy fill at thine
own pleasure; but thou shalt not put [any] in thy (o) vessel.

<page=422>(n) Being hired for labour.



(o) To bring home to your house.

<h2>Deuteronomy 24</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 24:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 24:1>Deuteronomy 24:1</verse></h3>

<page=423>When a man hath taken a wife, and married her, and it come to pass that she find no favour in his
eyes, because he hath found some uncleanness in her: (a) then let him write her a bill of
divorcement, and give [it] in her hand, and send her out of his house.



(a) By this God does not approve light divorcement, but permits it to avoid further inconvenience;



(<bcv=Mat 19:7>Mat 19:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 24:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 24:4>Deuteronomy 24:4</verse></h3>



Her former husband, which sent her away, may not take her again to be his wife, after that she is (b)
defiled; for that [is] abomination before the LORD: and thou shalt not cause the land to sin, which
the LORD thy God giveth thee [for] an inheritance.



(b) Seeing that by divorcing her he judged her to be unclean and defiled.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 24:5
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 24:5>Deuteronomy 24:5</verse></h3>



When a man hath taken a new wife, he shall not go out to war, (c) neither shall he be charged with
any business: [but] he shall be free at home one year, and shall cheer up his wife which he hath taken.



(c) That they might learn to know one another's conditions, and so afterward live in godly peace.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 24:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 24:6>Deuteronomy 24:6</verse></h3>



No man shall take the nether or the upper (d) millstone to pledge: for he taketh [a man's] life to
pledge.



(d) Not anything by which a man gets his living.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 24:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 24:10>Deuteronomy 24:10</verse></h3>



When thou dost lend thy brother any thing, thou shalt not go (e) into his house to fetch his pledge.



(e) As though you would appoint what to have, but shall receive what be may spare.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 24:13
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 24:13>Deuteronomy 24:13</verse></h3>



In any case thou shalt deliver him the pledge again when the sun goeth down, that he may sleep in
his own raiment, and bless thee: and it shall be righteousness unto thee (f) before the LORD thy
God.

<page=424>(f) Though he would be unthankful, yet God will not forget it.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 24:17
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 24:17>Deuteronomy 24:17</verse></h3>



Thou shalt not pervert the judgment of the (g) stranger, [nor] of the fatherless; nor take a widow's
raiment to pledge:



(g) Because the world valued these people least, therefore God has most care over them.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 24:22
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 24:22>Deuteronomy 24:22</verse></h3>



And thou shalt remember that thou wast (h) a bondman in the land of Egypt: therefore I command
thee to do this thing.



(h) God judged them not mindful of his beasts, unless they were beneficial to others.

<h2>Deuteronomy 25</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 25:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 25:1>Deuteronomy 25:1</verse></h3>

<page=425>If there be a controversy between men, and they come unto judgment, (a) that [the judges] may
judge them; then they shall justify the righteous, and condemn the wicked.



(a) Whether there is a plaintiff or not, the magistrates should try our faults, and punish according to
the crime.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 25:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 25:2>Deuteronomy 25:2</verse></h3>



And it shall be, if the wicked man [be] worthy to be beaten, that the judge shall cause him to lie
down, (b) and to be beaten before his face, according to his fault, by a certain number.



(b) When the crime does not deserve death.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 25:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 25:3>Deuteronomy 25:3</verse></h3>




(c) Forty stripes he may give him, [and] not exceed: lest, [if] he should exceed, and beat him above
these with many stripes, then thy brother should seem vile unto thee.



(c) The superstition Jews later removed one, (<bcv=2Co 11:24>Co2 11:24</bcv>).

#BCV:Deuteronomy 25:5
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 25:5>Deuteronomy 25:5</verse></h3>



If brethren dwell together, and one of them die, and have no child, the wife of the dead shall not
marry without unto a stranger: her (d) husband's brother shall go in unto her, and take her to him to
wife, and perform the duty of an husband's brother unto her.



(d) Because the Hebrew word does not signify the natural brother, and the word that signifies a
brother, is taken also for a kinsman: it seems that it does not mean that the natural brother should
marry his brothers wife, but some other kindred that was in the degree that might marry.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 25:11
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 25:11>Deuteronomy 25:11</verse></h3>




(e) When men strive together one with another, and the wife of the one draweth near for to deliver
her husband out of the hand of him that smiteth him, and putteth forth her hand, and taketh him
by the secrets:



(e) This law imputes that godly shamefacedness is preferred: for it is a horrible thing to see a woman
past shame.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 25:19
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 25:19>Deuteronomy 25:19</verse></h3>

#BCV:deu 25:19
<h3><verse=deu 25:19>deu 25:19</verse></h3>



about, in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee [for] an inheritance to possess it, [that] thou
shalt blot out the (f) remembrance of Amalek from under heaven; thou shalt not forget [it].



(f) This was partly accomplished by Saul, about 450 years later.

<h2>Deuteronomy 26</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 26:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 26:2>Deuteronomy 26:2</verse></h3>


<page=427>(a) That thou shalt take of the first of all the fruit of the earth, which thou shalt bring of thy land
that the LORD thy God giveth thee, and shalt put [it] in a basket, and shalt go unto the place which
the LORD thy God shall choose to (b) place his name there.



(a) By this ceremony they acknowledged that they received the land of Canaan as a free gift from
God.



(b) To be called upon, served and worshipped spiritually, (<bcv=Deu 12:5>Deu 12:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 26:5
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 26:5>Deuteronomy 26:5</verse></h3>



And thou shalt speak and say before the LORD thy God, A (c) Syrian ready to perish [was] my
father, and he went down into Egypt, and sojourned there with a few, and became there a nation,
great, mighty, (d) and populous:



(c) Meaning, Jacob, who served 20 years in Syria.



(d) Only by God's mercy, and not by their father's deserving.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 26:7
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 26:7>Deuteronomy 26:7</verse></h3>



And when we (e) cried unto the LORD God of our fathers, the LORD heard our voice, and looked
on our affliction, and our labour, and our oppression:



(e) Alleging the promises made to our fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 26:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 26:10>Deuteronomy 26:10</verse></h3>



And now, behold, I have (f) brought the firstfruits of the land, which thou, O LORD, hast given me.
And thou shalt set it before the LORD thy God, and worship before the LORD thy God:



(f) In token of a thankful heart, and mindful of this benefit.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 26:11
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 26:11>Deuteronomy 26:11</verse></h3>



And thou shalt rejoice in every good [thing] which the LORD thy God hath given unto thee, and
unto thine (g) house, thou, and the Levite, and the stranger that [is] among you.



(g) Signifying that God does not give us goods for ourselves only, but to be used also by those who
are committed to our charge.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 26:13
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 26:13>Deuteronomy 26:13</verse></h3>

<page=428>Then thou shalt (h) say before the LORD thy God, I have brought away the hallowed things out of
[mine] house, and also have given them unto the Levite, and unto the stranger, to the fatherless, and
to the widow, according to all thy commandments which thou hast commanded me: I have not (i)
transgressed thy commandments, neither have I forgotten [them]:



(h) Without hypocrisy.



(i) Of malice and contempt.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 26:14
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 26:14>Deuteronomy 26:14</verse></h3>



I have not eaten thereof in my mourning, neither have I taken away [ought] thereof for [any]
unclean [use], nor given [ought] thereof for the dead: [but] I have hearkened to the voice of the
LORD my God, [and] have done (m) according to all that thou hast commanded me.



(m) As far as my sinful nature would allow: or else as David and Paul say, there is not one just, (Psa
14:3;<bcv=Rom 3:10> Rom 3:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 26:16
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 26:16>Deuteronomy 26:16</verse></h3>



This day the LORD thy God hath commanded thee to do these statutes and judgments: thou shalt
therefore keep and do them with (n) all thine heart, and with all thy soul.



(n) With a good and simple conscience.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 26:18
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 26:18>Deuteronomy 26:18</verse></h3>




(o) And the LORD hath avouched thee this day to be his peculiar people, as he hath promised thee,
and that [thou] shouldest keep all his commandments;



(o) Signifying that there is a mutual bond between God and his people.

<h2>Deuteronomy 27</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 27:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 27:1>Deuteronomy 27:1</verse></h3>

<page=429>And Moses with the elders of Israel (a) commanded the people, saying, Keep all the commandments
which I command you this day.



(a) As God's minister and charged with the same.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 27:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 27:3>Deuteronomy 27:3</verse></h3>




(b) And thou shalt write upon them all the words of this law, when thou art passed over, that thou
mayest go in unto the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, a land that floweth with milk and
honey; as the LORD God of thy fathers hath promised thee.



(b) God would have his law set up in the borders of the land of Canaan, that all that looked on it
might know that the land was dedicated to his service.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 27:5
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 27:5>Deuteronomy 27:5</verse></h3>



And there shalt thou build an altar unto the LORD thy God, an altar of stones: thou shalt not lift up
[any] (c) iron [tool] upon them.



(c) The altar should not be curiously wrought, because it would continue but for a time: for God
would have only one altar in Judah.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 27:8
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 27:8>Deuteronomy 27:8</verse></h3>



And thou shalt write upon the stones all the words of this law (d) very plainly.



(d) That everyone may well read it, and understand it.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 27:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 27:10>Deuteronomy 27:10</verse></h3>



Thou (e) shalt therefore obey the voice of the LORD thy God, and do his commandments and his
statutes, which I command thee this day.



(e) This condition has bound you to it, that if you will be his people, you must keep his laws.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 27:12
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 27:12>Deuteronomy 27:12</verse></h3>



These shall stand upon mount Gerizim to bless the people, when ye are come over Jordan; Simeon,
and Levi, and Judah, and Issachar, and (f) Joseph, and Benjamin:

<page=430>(f) Meaning, Ephraim and Manasseh.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 27:13
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 27:13>Deuteronomy 27:13</verse></h3>



And these shall stand upon mount Ebal to (g) curse; Reuben, Gad, and Asher, and Zebulun, Dan,
and Naphtali.



(g) Signifying, that if they would not obey God out of love, they would be made to obey out of fear.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 27:15
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 27:15>Deuteronomy 27:15</verse></h3>



Cursed [be] the man that maketh [any] graven or molten (h) image, an abomination unto the LORD,
the work of the hands of the craftsman, and putteth [it] in [a] secret [place]. And all the people shall
answer and say, Amen.



(h) Under this he contains all the corruptions of God's service, and the transgression of the first
table.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 27:16
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 27:16>Deuteronomy 27:16</verse></h3>



Cursed [be] he that (i) setteth light by his father or his mother. And all the people shall say, Amen.



(i) Or, condemns; and this applies to the second table.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 27:17
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 27:17>Deuteronomy 27:17</verse></h3>



Cursed [be] he that removeth his neighbour's (k) landmark. And all the people shall say, Amen.



(k) He condemns all injuries and extortions.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 27:18
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 27:18>Deuteronomy 27:18</verse></h3>



Cursed [be] he that maketh the (l) blind to wander out of the way. And all the people shall say, Amen.



(l) Meaning, that does not help and counsel his neighbour.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 27:20
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 27:20>Deuteronomy 27:20</verse></h3>



Cursed [be] he that lieth with his father's wife; because he uncovereth his father's (m) skirt. And all
the people shall say, Amen.



(m) In committing wickedness against him, (<bcv=Lev 20:11>Lev 20:11</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 22:30> Deu 22:30</bcv>;<bcv=Ezek 22:10> Eze 22:10</bcv>)
#BCV:Deuteronomy 27:23
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 27:23>Deuteronomy 27:23</verse></h3>

#BCV:deu 27:23
<h3><verse=deu 27:23>deu 27:23</verse></h3>




(n) Meaning, his wife's mother.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 27:24
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 27:24>Deuteronomy 27:24</verse></h3>



Cursed [be] he that smiteth his neighbour (o) secretly. And all the people shall say, Amen.



(o) For God that sees in secret, will avenge it.

<h2>Deuteronomy 28</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:1>Deuteronomy 28:1</verse></h3>

<page=432>And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to
observe [and] to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God
will (a) set thee on high above all nations of the earth:



(a) He will make you the most excellent of all people.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:2>Deuteronomy 28:2</verse></h3>



And all these blessings shall come on thee, and (b) overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the
voice of the LORD thy God.



(b) When you think you are forsaken.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:3>Deuteronomy 28:3</verse></h3>



Blessed [shalt] thou [be] in the (c) city, and blessed [shalt] thou [be] in the field.



(c) You will live richly.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:4>Deuteronomy 28:4</verse></h3>



Blessed [shall be] the fruit (d) of thy body, and the fruit of thy ground, and the fruit of thy cattle,
the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep.



(d) Your children and succession.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:6>Deuteronomy 28:6</verse></h3>



Blessed [shalt] thou [be] when thou (e) comest in, and blessed [shalt] thou [be] when thou goest out.



(e) All your enterprises will have good success.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:7
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:7>Deuteronomy 28:7</verse></h3>



The LORD shall cause thine enemies that rise up against thee to be smitten before thy face: they
shall come out against thee one way, and flee before thee (f) seven ways.



(f) Meaning many ways.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:8
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:8>Deuteronomy 28:8</verse></h3>

<page=433>The LORD shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest
thine (g) hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.



(g) God will bless us, if we do our duty and are not idle.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:10>Deuteronomy 28:10</verse></h3>



And all people of the earth shall see that thou art (h) called by the name of the LORD; and they
shall be afraid of thee.



(h) In that he is your God, and you are his people.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:12
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:12>Deuteronomy 28:12</verse></h3>



The LORD shall open unto thee his good treasure, the (i) heaven to give the rain unto thy land in
his season, and to bless all the work of thine hand: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, and thou
shalt not borrow.



(i) For nothing in the earth is profitable but when God sends his blessings from heaven.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:23
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:23>Deuteronomy 28:23</verse></h3>



And thy heaven that [is] over thy head shall be (k) brass, and the earth that is under thee [shall be]
iron.



(k) It will give you no more moisture than if it were of brass.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:25
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:25>Deuteronomy 28:25</verse></h3>



The LORD shall cause thee to be smitten before thine enemies: thou shalt go out one way against
them, and flee seven ways before them: and shalt be (l) removed into all the kingdoms of the earth.



(i) Some read, you shall be a terror and fear, when they hear how God has plagued you.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:26
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:26>Deuteronomy 28:26</verse></h3>



And thy (m) carcase shall be meat unto all fowls of the air, and unto the beasts of the earth, and no
man shall fray [them] away.



(m) You will be cursed both in your life and in your death: for the burial is a testimony of the
resurrection a sign you will lack because of your wickedness.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:29
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:29>Deuteronomy 28:29</verse></h3>

<page=434>And thou shalt grope at noonday, as the (n) blind gropeth in darkness, and thou shalt not prosper in
thy ways: and thou shalt be only oppressed and spoiled evermore, and no man shall save [thee].



(n) In things most evident and clear you will lack discretion and judgment.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:32
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:32>Deuteronomy 28:32</verse></h3>



Thy sons and thy daughters [shall be] given unto another people, and thine eyes (o) shall look, and
fail [with longing] for them all the day long: and [there shall be] no might in thine hand.



(o) When they will return from their captivity.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:36
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:36>Deuteronomy 28:36</verse></h3>



The LORD shall bring thee, and thy (p) king which thou shalt set over thee, unto a nation which
neither thou nor thy fathers have known; and there shalt thou serve other gods, wood and stone.



(p) As he did Manasseh, Joiakim, Zedekiah and others.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:42
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:42>Deuteronomy 28:42</verse></h3>



All thy trees and fruit of thy land (q) shall the locust consume.



(q) Under one kind he contains all the vermin, which destroy the fruit of the land: and this is an
evident token of God's curse.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:56
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:56>Deuteronomy 28:56</verse></h3>



The tender and delicate (s) woman among you, which would not adventure to set the sole of her
foot upon the ground for delicateness and tenderness, her eye shall be evil toward the husband of
her bosom, and toward her son, and toward her daughter,



(s) As came to pass in the days of Joram king of Israel, (<bcv=II Ki 6:28>Kg2 6:28</bcv>) and when the Romans besieged
Jerusalem.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:57
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:57>Deuteronomy 28:57</verse></h3>



And toward her (t) young one that cometh out from between her feet, and toward her children
which she shall bear: for she shall eat them for want of all [things] secretly in the siege and straitness,
wherewith thine enemy shall distress thee in thy gates.



(t) Hunger will so bite her, that she will be ready to eat her child before it is delivered.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:58
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:58>Deuteronomy 28:58</verse></h3>

#BCV:deu 28:58
<h3><verse=deu 28:58>deu 28:58</verse></h3>



mayest fear this glorious and fearful name, THE LORD THY GOD;



(u) For he that offends in one, is guilty of all, (<bcv=Jam 2:10>Jam 2:10</bcv>)
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:61
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:61>Deuteronomy 28:61</verse></h3>



Also every sickness, and every plague, which [is] not (x) written in the book of this law, them will the
LORD bring upon thee, until thou be destroyed.



(x) Declaring, that God has infinite means to plague the wicked, besides those that are ordinary or
written.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:64
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:64>Deuteronomy 28:64</verse></h3>



And the LORD shall (y) scatter thee among all people, from the one end of the earth even unto the
other; and there thou shalt serve other gods, which neither thou nor thy fathers have known, [even]
wood and stone.



(y) Signifying that it is a singular gift from God to be in a place where we may worship God purely
and declare our faith and religion.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 28:68
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 28:68>Deuteronomy 28:68</verse></h3>



And the LORD shall bring thee into Egypt again with (z) ships, by the way whereof I spake unto
thee, Thou shalt see it no more again: and there ye shall be sold unto your enemies for bondmen
and bondwomen, and no man shall buy [you].



(z) Because they were unmindful of that miracle, when the sea made room for them to pass through.

<h2>Deuteronomy 29</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 29:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 29:1>Deuteronomy 29:1</verse></h3>

<page=436>These [are] the (a) words of the covenant, which the LORD commanded Moses to make with the
children of Israel in the land of Moab, beside the covenant which he made with them in (b) Horeb.



(a) That is, the articles, or conditions.



(b) At the first giving of the law, which was forty years earlier.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 29:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 29:3>Deuteronomy 29:3</verse></h3>



The (c) great temptations which thine eyes have seen, the signs, and those great miracles:



(c) The proofs of my power.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 29:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 29:4>Deuteronomy 29:4</verse></h3>



Yet the LORD hath not (d) given you an heart to perceive, and eyes to see, and ears to hear, unto
this day.



(d) He shows that it is not in man's power to understand the mysteries of God if it is not given to
him from above.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 29:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 29:6>Deuteronomy 29:6</verse></h3>



Ye have not eaten (e) bread, neither have ye drunk wine or strong drink: that ye might know that I
[am] the LORD your God.



(e) Made by man's art, but manna, which is called the bread of angels.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 29:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 29:10>Deuteronomy 29:10</verse></h3>



Ye stand this day all of you before the LORD your (f) God; your captains of your tribes, your elders,
and your officers, [with] all the men of Israel,



(f) Who knows your hearts, and therefore you may not think to conceal from him.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 29:12
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 29:12>Deuteronomy 29:12</verse></h3>



That thou shouldest (g) enter into covenant with the LORD thy God, and into his oath, which the
LORD thy God maketh with thee this day:

<page=437>(g) Alluding to them, that when they made a sure covenant, divided a beast in two, and past between
the parts divided, (<bcv=Gen 15:10>Gen 15:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 29:15
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 29:15>Deuteronomy 29:15</verse></h3>



But with [him] that standeth here with us this day before the LORD our God, and also with [him] (h)
that [is] not here with us this day:



(h) Meaning, their posterity.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 29:18
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 29:18>Deuteronomy 29:18</verse></h3>



Lest there should be among you man, or woman, or family, or tribe, whose heart turneth away this
day from the LORD our God, to go [and] serve the gods of these nations; lest there should be
among you (i) a root that beareth gall and wormwood;



(i) Such sin, as the bitter fruit of it might choke and destroy you.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 29:19
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 29:19>Deuteronomy 29:19</verse></h3>



And it come to pass, when he heareth the words of this curse, that he bless himself in his heart,
saying, I shall have peace, though I walk in the imagination of mine heart, to add (k) drunkenness to
thirst:



(k) For as he that is thirsty desires to drink much so he that follows his appetites seeks by all means
and yet cannot be satisfied.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 29:22
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 29:22>Deuteronomy 29:22</verse></h3>



So that the (l) generation to come of your children that shall rise up after you, and the stranger that
shall come from a far land, shall say, when they see the plagues of that land, and the sicknesses
which the LORD hath laid upon it;



(l) God's plagues on those who rebel against him will be so strong, that all ages will be astonished.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 29:29
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 29:29>Deuteronomy 29:29</verse></h3>



The (m) secret [things belong] unto the LORD our God: but those [things which are] revealed
[belong] unto us and to our children for ever, that [we] may do all the words of this law.



(m) Moses by this proves their curiosity, who seek those things that are only known to God: and
their negligence who do not regard that which God has revealed to them, as the law.

<h2>Deuteronomy 30</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 30:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 30:1>Deuteronomy 30:1</verse></h3>

<page=438>And it shall come to pass, when all these things are come upon thee, the blessing and the curse,
which I have set before thee, and thou shalt (a) call [them] to mind among all the nations, whither
the LORD thy God hath driven thee,



(a) By calling to mind both his mercies and his plagues.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 30:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 30:2>Deuteronomy 30:2</verse></h3>



And shalt return unto the LORD thy God, and shalt obey his voice according to all that I command
thee this day, thou and thy children, with all thine (b) heart, and with all thy soul;



(b) In true repentance there is no hypocrisy.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 30:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 30:4>Deuteronomy 30:4</verse></h3>



If [any] of thine be driven out unto the outmost [parts] of (c) heaven, from thence will the LORD
thy God gather thee, and from thence will he (d) fetch thee:



(c) Even to the worlds end.



(d) And bring you into your country.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 30:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 30:6>Deuteronomy 30:6</verse></h3>



And the LORD thy God will (e) circumcise thine heart, and the heart of thy seed, to love the
LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, that thou mayest live.



(e) God will purge all your wicked affections, a thing that is not in your own power to do.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 30:8
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 30:8>Deuteronomy 30:8</verse></h3>




(f) And thou shalt return and obey the voice of the LORD, and do all his commandments which I
command thee this day.



(f) If we will have God work in us with his Holy Spirit, we must turn again to him by repentance.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 30:9
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 30:9>Deuteronomy 30:9</verse></h3>

<page=439>And the LORD thy God will make thee plenteous in every work of thine hand, in the fruit of thy
body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy land, for good: for the LORD will again (g)
rejoice over thee for good, as he rejoiced over thy fathers:



(g) He does not mean that God is subject to these passions, to rejoice, or to be sad: but he uses this
manner of speech to declare the love that he has for us.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 30:11
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 30:11>Deuteronomy 30:11</verse></h3>



For this commandment which I command thee this day, it [is] (h) not hidden from thee, neither [is]
it far off.



(h) The law is so evident that no one can pretend ignorance.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 30:13
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 30:13>Deuteronomy 30:13</verse></h3>



Neither [is] it beyond the (i) sea, that thou shouldest say, Who shall go over the sea for us, and bring
it unto us, that we may hear it, and do it?



(i) By heaven and the sea he means places most far distant.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 30:14
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 30:14>Deuteronomy 30:14</verse></h3>



But the (k) word [is] very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest (l) do it.



(k) Even the law and the gospel.



(l) By faith in Christ.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 30:16
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 30:16>Deuteronomy 30:16</verse></h3>



In that I command thee this day (m) to love the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, and to keep his
commandments and his statutes and his judgments, that thou mayest (n) live and multiply: and the
LORD thy God shall bless thee in the land whither thou goest to possess it.



(m) So that to love and obey God, is only life and happiness.



(n) He adds these promises to signify that it is for our profit that we love him, and not for his.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 30:19
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 30:19>Deuteronomy 30:19</verse></h3>



I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, [that] I have set before you life and death,
blessing and cursing: therefore (o) choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live:

<page=440>(o) That is, love and obey God; which is not in man's power, but only God's Spirit works it in his
elect.

<h2>Deuteronomy 31</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 31:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 31:2>Deuteronomy 31:2</verse></h3>

<page=441>And he said unto them, I [am] an hundred and twenty years old this day; I (a) can no more go out
and come in: also the LORD hath said unto me, Thou shalt not go over this Jordan.



(a) I can no longer execute my office.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 31:5
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 31:5>Deuteronomy 31:5</verse></h3>



And the LORD shall give them up (b) before your face, that ye may do unto them according unto all
the commandments which I have commanded you.



(b) Into your hands.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 31:7
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 31:7>Deuteronomy 31:7</verse></h3>



And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel, Be strong and (c) of a
good courage: for thou must go with this people unto the land which the LORD hath sworn unto
their fathers to give them; and thou shalt cause them to inherit it.



(c) For he that must govern the people, must be valiant to repress evil, and constant to maintain
virtue.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 31:8
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 31:8>Deuteronomy 31:8</verse></h3>



And the LORD, he [it is] that doth (d) go before thee; he will be with thee, he will not fail thee,
neither forsake thee: fear not, neither be dismayed.



(d) Signifying that man can never be of good courage, unless he is persuaded of God's favour and
assistance.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 31:11
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 31:11>Deuteronomy 31:11</verse></h3>



When all Israel is come to appear (e) before the LORD thy God in the place which he shall choose,
thou shalt read this law before all Israel in their hearing.



(e) Before the Ark of the covenant, which was the sign of God's presence, and the figure of Christ.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 31:13
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 31:13>Deuteronomy 31:13</verse></h3>



And [that] their children, which (f) have not known [any thing], may hear, and learn to fear the
LORD your God, as long as ye live in the land whither ye go over Jordan to possess it.

<page=442>(f) Who were not born when the law was given.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 31:15
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 31:15>Deuteronomy 31:15</verse></h3>



And the LORD appeared in the tabernacle in a pillar of a (g) cloud: and the pillar of the cloud stood
over the door of the tabernacle.



(g) In a cloud that was fashioned like a pillar.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 31:17
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 31:17>Deuteronomy 31:17</verse></h3>



Then my anger shall be kindled against them in that day, and I will forsake them, and I will (h) hide
my face from them, and they shall be devoured, and many evils and troubles shall befall them; so
that they will say in that day, Are not these evils come upon us, because our God [is] not among us?



(h) That is, I will take my favour from them; as turning his face toward us shows his favour.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 31:19
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 31:19>Deuteronomy 31:19</verse></h3>



Now therefore write ye this (i) song for you, and teach it the children of Israel: put it in their mouths,
that this song may be a witness for me against the children of Israel.



(i) To preserve you and your children from idolatry, by remembering God's benefits.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 31:20
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 31:20>Deuteronomy 31:20</verse></h3>



For when I shall have brought them into the land which I sware unto their fathers, that floweth with
milk and honey; and they shall have eaten and filled themselves, and waxen fat; (k) then will they
turn unto other gods, and serve them, and provoke me, and break my covenant.



(k) For this is the nature of flesh, no longer to obey God, than it is under the rod.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 31:21
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 31:21>Deuteronomy 31:21</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, when many evils and troubles are befallen them, that this song shall (l)
testify against them as a witness; for it shall not be forgotten out of the mouths of their seed: for I
know their imagination which they go about, even now, before I have brought them into the land
which I sware.



(l) That these evils are come upon them, because they have forsaken me.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 31:26
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 31:26>Deuteronomy 31:26</verse></h3>

<page=443>Take this book of the law, and put it in the side of the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God,
that it may be there for a (m) witness against thee.



(m) Of your infidelity, when you turn away from the doctrine contained in it.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 31:28
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 31:28>Deuteronomy 31:28</verse></h3>



Gather unto me all the elders of your tribes, and your (n) officers, that I may speak these words in
their ears, and call heaven and earth to record against them.



(n) As governors, judges and magistrates.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 31:29
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 31:29>Deuteronomy 31:29</verse></h3>



For I know that after my death ye will utterly corrupt [yourselves], and turn aside from the way
which I have commanded you; and evil will befall you in the latter days; because ye will do evil in the
sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger through the (o) work of your hands.



(o) By idolatry, and worshipping images, which are the work of your hands.

<h2>Deuteronomy 32</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:1>Deuteronomy 32:1</verse></h3>

<page=444>Give ear, O ye (a) heavens, and I will speak; and hear, O earth, the words of my mouth.



(a) As witness of this people's ingratitude.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:2>Deuteronomy 32:2</verse></h3>



My (b) doctrine shall drop as the rain, my speech shall distil as the dew, as the small rain upon the
tender herb, and as the showers upon the grass:



(b) He desires that he may speak to God's glory and that the people, as the green grass, may receive
the dew of his doctrine.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:4>Deuteronomy 32:4</verse></h3>



[He is] the (c) Rock, his work [is] perfect: for all his ways [are] judgment: a God of truth and without
iniquity, just and right [is] he.



(c) Or mighty God; noting that only God is mighty, faithful and constant in his promise.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:6>Deuteronomy 32:6</verse></h3>



Do ye thus requite the LORD, O foolish people and unwise? [is] not he thy father [that] hath bought
thee? hath he not (d) made thee, and established thee?



(d) Not according to the common creation, but he has made you a new creature by his Spirit.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:8
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:8>Deuteronomy 32:8</verse></h3>



When the most High divided to the nations their inheritance, when he separated the sons of Adam,
he set the bounds of the (e) people according to the number of the children of Israel.



(e) When God by his providence divided the world, he lent for a time that portion to the Canaanites,
which would later be an inheritance for all his people Israel.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:11
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:11>Deuteronomy 32:11</verse></h3>



As an eagle stirreth up her nest, (f) fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her wings, taketh
them, beareth them on her wings:



(f) To teach them to fly.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:13
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:13>Deuteronomy 32:13</verse></h3>

<page=445>He made him ride on the high places of the (g) earth, that he might eat the increase of the fields;
and he made him to suck (h) honey out of the rock, and oil out of the flinty rock;



(g) Meaning, of the land of Canaan, which was high in respect to Egypt.



(h) That is, abundance of all things even in the very rocks.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:15
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:15>Deuteronomy 32:15</verse></h3>




(i) But Jeshurun waxed fat, and kicked: thou art waxen fat, thou art grown thick, thou art covered
[with fatness]; then he forsook God [which] made him, and lightly esteemed the Rock of his
salvation.



(i) He shows what is the principal end of our vocation.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:16
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:16>Deuteronomy 32:16</verse></h3>



They provoked him to jealousy with (k) strange [gods], with abominations provoked they him to
anger.



(k) By changing his service for their superstitions.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:17
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:17>Deuteronomy 32:17</verse></h3>



They sacrificed unto devils, not to God; to gods whom they knew not, to (l) new [gods that] came
newly up, whom your fathers feared not.



(l) Scripture calls new, whatever man invents, be the error ever so old.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:19
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:19>Deuteronomy 32:19</verse></h3>



And when the LORD saw [it], he abhorred [them], because of the provoking of his (m) sons, and
of his daughters.



(m) He calls them God's children, not to honour them, but to show them from what dignity they are
fallen.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:21
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:21>Deuteronomy 32:21</verse></h3>

<page=446>They have moved me to jealousy with [that which is] not God; they have provoked me to anger with
their vanities: and I will move them to jealousy with [those which are] not a (n) people; I will
provoke them to anger with a foolish nation.



(n) Which I have not favoured, nor given my law to them.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:25
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:25>Deuteronomy 32:25</verse></h3>



The sword (o) without, and terror within, shall destroy both the young man and the virgin, the
suckling [also] with the man of gray hairs.



(o) They shall be slain both in the field and at home.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:27
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:27>Deuteronomy 32:27</verse></h3>



Were it not that I feared the wrath of the enemy, lest their adversaries should (p) behave themselves
strangely, [and] lest they should say, Our hand [is] high, and the LORD hath not done all this.



(p) Rejoicing to see the godly afflicted, and attributing to themselves that which is wrought by God's
hand.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:29
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:29>Deuteronomy 32:29</verse></h3>



O that they were wise, [that] they understood this, [that] they would (q) consider their latter end!



(q) They would consider the happiness that was prepared for them, if they had obeyed God.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:33
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:33>Deuteronomy 32:33</verse></h3>



Their (r) wine [is] the poison of dragons, and the cruel venom of asps.



(r) The fruit of the wicked are as poison, detestable to God, and dangerous for man.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:36
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:36>Deuteronomy 32:36</verse></h3>



For the LORD shall judge his people, and repent himself for his servants, when he seeth that [their]
power is gone, and [there is] none (s) shut up, or left.



(s) When neither strong nor weak in a manner remain.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:40
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:40>Deuteronomy 32:40</verse></h3>



For I (t) lift up my hand to heaven, and say, I live for ever.



(t) That is, I swear, read (<bcv=Gen 14:22>Gen 14:22</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:43
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:43>Deuteronomy 32:43</verse></h3>

<page=447>Rejoice, O ye nations, [with] his people: for he will avenge the (u) blood of his servants, and will
render vengeance to his adversaries, and will be merciful unto his land, [and] to his people.



(u) Where the blood of God's people is shed for their sins or trial of their faith, he promises to
avenge it.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:47
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:47>Deuteronomy 32:47</verse></h3>



For it [is] not a (x) vain thing for you; because it [is] your life: and through this thing ye shall prolong
[your] days in the land, whither ye go over Jordan to possess it.



(x) For I will perform my promise to you, (<bcv=Isa 55:10>Isa 55:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 32:51
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 32:51>Deuteronomy 32:51</verse></h3>



Because ye trespassed against me among the children of Israel at the waters of Meribah-Kadesh, in
the wilderness of Zin; because ye (y) sanctified me not in the midst of the children of Israel.



(y) You were not earnest and constant to maintain my honour.

<h2>Deuteronomy 33</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:1>Deuteronomy 33:1</verse></h3>

<page=448>And this [is] the (a) blessing, wherewith Moses the man of God blessed the children of Israel before
his death.



(a) This blessing contains not only a simple prayer, but an assurance of the effect of it.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:2>Deuteronomy 33:2</verse></h3>



And he said, The LORD came from Sinai, and rose up from Seir unto them; he shined forth from
mount Paran, and he came with ten (b) thousands of saints: from his right hand [went] a fiery law
for them.



(b) Meaning, infinite angels.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:3
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:3>Deuteronomy 33:3</verse></h3>



Yea, he loved the people; (c) all his saints [are] in thy hand: and they sat down at (d) thy feet; [every
one] shall receive of thy words.



(c) Hebrew, his saints, that is, the children of Israel.



(d) As thy disciples.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:4
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:4>Deuteronomy 33:4</verse></h3>



Moses commanded us a law, [even] the (e) inheritance of the congregation of Jacob.



(e) To us and our successors.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:6>Deuteronomy 33:6</verse></h3>



Let (f) Reuben live, and not die; and let [not] his men be few.



(f) Reuben will be one of the tribes of God's people, though for his sin his honour is diminished,
and his family but small.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:7
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:7>Deuteronomy 33:7</verse></h3>



And this [is the blessing] of Judah: and he said, Hear, LORD, the voice of Judah, and bring him
unto his people: let his hands be (g) sufficient for him; and be thou an help [to him] from his
enemies.

<page=449>(g) Signifying, that he would barely obtain Jacob's promise, (Gen 49:8).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:9
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:9>Deuteronomy 33:9</verse></h3>



Who said unto his father and to his mother, (h) I have not seen him; neither did he acknowledge his
brethren, nor knew his own children: for they have observed thy word, and kept thy covenant.



(h) He preferred God's glory to all natural affection, (<bcv=Exo 28:30>Exo 28:30</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:11
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:11>Deuteronomy 33:11</verse></h3>



Bless, LORD, his substance, and accept the work of his hands: smite (i) through the loins of them
that rise against him, and of them that hate him, that they rise not again.



(i) He declares that the ministers of God have many enemies, and therefore need to be prayed for.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:12
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:12>Deuteronomy 33:12</verse></h3>



[And] of Benjamin he said, The beloved of the LORD shall (k) dwell in safety by him; [and the
LORD] shall cover him all the day long, and he shall dwell between his shoulders.



(k) Because the temple would be built in Zion, which was in the tribe of Benjamin, he shows that
God would dwell with him there.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:16
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:16>Deuteronomy 33:16</verse></h3>



And for the precious things of the earth and fulness thereof, and [for] the good will of him that
dwelt in the (l) bush: let [the blessing] come upon the head of Joseph, and upon the top of the head
of him [that was] separated from his brethren.



(l) Which was God appearing to Moses, (<bcv=Exo 3:2>Exo 3:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:18
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:18>Deuteronomy 33:18</verse></h3>



And of Zebulun he said, Rejoice, Zebulun, in thy (m) going out; and, Issachar, in thy tents.



(m) In thy prosperous voyages on the sea, (<bcv=Gen 49:13>Gen 49:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:19
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:19>Deuteronomy 33:19</verse></h3>



They shall call the people unto the mountain; there they shall offer sacrifices of righteousness: for (n)
they shall suck [of] the abundance of the seas, and [of] treasures hid in the sand.



(n) The tribe of Zebulun.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:21
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:21>Deuteronomy 33:21</verse></h3>

<page=450>And he provided the first part for himself, because there, [in] a portion of the (o) lawgiver, [was he]
seated; and he came with the heads of the people, he executed the justice of the LORD, and his
judgments with Israel.



(o) So the portion of the Gadites, and others on this side of the Jordan was God's, though it was
not so known.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:23
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:23>Deuteronomy 33:23</verse></h3>



And of Naphtali he said, O Naphtali, satisfied with favour, and full with the blessing of the LORD:
possess thou (p) the west and the south.



(p) Meaning, near the sea.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:25
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:25>Deuteronomy 33:25</verse></h3>



Thy shoes [shall be] (q) iron and brass; and as thy days, [so shall] thy strength [be].



(q) You will be strong or, your country full of metal. It seems that Simeon is left out, because he was
under Judah, and his portion of his inheritance, (<bcv=Jos 19:9>Jos 19:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:28
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:28>Deuteronomy 33:28</verse></h3>



Israel then shall dwell in safety alone: (r) the fountain of Jacob [shall be] upon a land of corn and
wine; also his heavens shall drop down dew.



(r) Who was plentiful in issue as a fountain.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 33:29
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 33:29>Deuteronomy 33:29</verse></h3>



Happy [art] thou, O Israel: who [is] like unto thee, O people saved by the LORD, the shield of thy
help, and who [is] the sword of thy excellency! and (s) thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee;
and thou shalt tread upon their high places.



(s) Your enemies for fear shall lie and pretend to be in subjection.

<h2>Deuteronomy 34</h2>

#BCV:Deuteronomy 34:1
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 34:1>Deuteronomy 34:1</verse></h3>

<page=451>And Moses went up from the plains of Moab unto the mountain of (a) Nebo, to the top of Pisgah,
that [is] over against Jericho. And the LORD shewed him all the land of Gilead, unto Dan,

(a) Which was a part of mount Abarim, (<bcv=Num 27:12>Num 27:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 34:2
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 34:2>Deuteronomy 34:2</verse></h3>



And all Naphtali, and the land of Ephraim, and Manasseh, and all the land of Judah, unto the
utmost (b) sea,



(b) Called Mediterranean.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 34:6
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 34:6>Deuteronomy 34:6</verse></h3>



And (c) he buried him in a valley in the land of Moab, over against Bethpeor: but no man knoweth
of his sepulchre unto (d) this day.



(c) That is, the angel of the Lord, (<bcv=Jude 1:9>Jde 1:9</bcv>).



(d) That the Jews might not have opportunity to commit idolatry by it.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 34:9
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 34:9>Deuteronomy 34:9</verse></h3>



And (e) Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom; for Moses had laid his hands upon
him: and the children of Israel hearkened unto him, and did as the LORD commanded Moses.



(e) By this the favour of God is demonstrated, in that he does not leave his Church destitute of a
governor.
#BCV:Deuteronomy 34:10
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 34:10>Deuteronomy 34:10</verse></h3>



And there arose not a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses, whom the LORD knew (f) face to
face,



(f) To whom the Lord revealed himself so plainly as in (<bcv=Exo 33:11>Exo 33:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Deuteronomy 34:12
<h3><verse=Deuteronomy 34:12>Deuteronomy 34:12</verse></h3>



And in all that mighty (g) hand, and in all the great terror which Moses shewed in the sight of all
Israel.

<page=452>(g) Meaning, the power of God working by Moses in the wilderness.

<h1>Joshua</h1>


<h2>Joshua 1</h2>


#BCV:Joshua 1:1
<h3><verse=Joshua 1:1>Joshua 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=453>Now after the (a) death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake
unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying,



The Argument - In this book the Holy Spirit sets most lively before us the accomplishment of
God's promise, who as he promised by the mouth of Moses, that a prophet would be raised up to
the people like him, whom he wills to obey, (<bcv=Deu 18:15>Deu 18:15</bcv>): so he shows himself true to his promise, as
at all other times, and after the death of Moses his faithful servant, he raises up Joshua to be ruler
and governor over his people, that they should neither be discouraged for lack of a captain, nor have
reason to distrust God's promises later. So that Joshua might be confirmed in his calling, and the
people also might have no opportunity to grudge, as though he were not approved by God: he is
adorned with most excellent gifts and graces from God, both to govern the people with counsel,
and to defend them with strength, that he lacks nothing which either belongs to a valiant captain, or
a faithful minister. So he overcomes all difficulties, and brings them into the land of Canaan: which
according to God's ordinance he divides among the people and appoints their borders: he
established laws and ordinances, and put them in remembrance of God's revealed benefits, assuring
them of his grace and favour if they obey God, and of his plagues and vengeance if they disobey
him. This history represents Jesus Christ the true Joshua, who leads us into eternal happiness,
signified to us by this land of Canaan. From the beginning of Genesis to the end of this book is
2567 years. For from Adam to the flood are 1656, from the flood to the departure of Abraham out
of Chaldea 423, and from then to the death of Joseph 290. So that Genesis contains 2369, Exodus
140, the other three books of Moses 40, Joshua 27. So the whole makes 2576 years.



(a) The beginning of this book depends on the last chapter of Deuteronomy which was written by
Joshua as a preparation to his history.
#BCV:Joshua 1:4
<h3><verse=Joshua 1:4>Joshua 1:4</verse></h3>



From the (b) wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land
of the (c) Hittites, and unto the great (d) sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast.



(b) Of Zin, called Kadesh and Paran.



(c) Meaning, the whole land of Canaan.



(d) Called Mediterranean.
#BCV:Joshua 1:7
<h3><verse=Joshua 1:7>Joshua 1:7</verse></h3>

#BCV:jos 1:7
<h3><verse=jos 1:7>jos 1:7</verse></h3>



which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it [to] the right hand or [to] the left, that
thou mayest (e) prosper whithersoever thou goest.



(e) He shows where true prosperity consists, even to obey the word of God.
#BCV:Joshua 1:8
<h3><verse=Joshua 1:8>Joshua 1:8</verse></h3>



This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and (f)
night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt
make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.



(f) Showing that it is not possible to govern well, without the continual study of God's word.
#BCV:Joshua 1:11
<h3><verse=Joshua 1:11>Joshua 1:11</verse></h3>



Pass through the host, and command the people, saying, Prepare you victuals; for (g) within three
days ye shall pass over this Jordan, to go in to possess the land, which the LORD your God giveth
you to possess it.



(g) Meaning, from the day that this was proclaimed, (<bcv=Jos 3:2>Jos 3:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 1:13
<h3><verse=Joshua 1:13>Joshua 1:13</verse></h3>



Remember the word which Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, saying, The LORD
your God hath given you rest, and hath given you this (h) land.



(h) Which belonged to Sihon the king of the Amorites, and Og king of Bashan.
#BCV:Joshua 1:15
<h3><verse=Joshua 1:15>Joshua 1:15</verse></h3>



Until the LORD have given your brethren rest, as [he hath given] you, and they also have possessed
the land which the LORD your God giveth them: then ye shall return unto the land of your
possession, and enjoy it, which Moses the LORD'S servant (i) gave you on this side Jordan toward
the sunrising.



(i) By your request, but yet by God's secret appointment, (<bcv=Deu 33:21>Deu 33:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 1:17
<h3><verse=Joshua 1:17>Joshua 1:17</verse></h3>



According as we hearkened unto Moses in all things, (k) so will we hearken unto thee: only the
LORD thy God be with thee, as he was with Moses.

<page=455>(k) They not only promise to obey him as long as God is with him: but to help punish all who rebel
against him.

<h2>Joshua 2</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 2:1
<h3><verse=Joshua 2:1>Joshua 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=456>And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of (a) Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the
land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into an harlot's house, named Rahab, and lodged there.



(a) Which was in the plain of Moab near Jordan.
#BCV:Joshua 2:3
<h3><verse=Joshua 2:3>Joshua 2:3</verse></h3>



And the king of Jericho sent unto Rahab, saying, (b) Bring forth the men that are come to thee,
which are entered into thine house: for they be come to search out all the country.



(b) Though the wicked see the hand of God on them, they do not repent, but seek how they may by
their power and policy resist his working.
#BCV:Joshua 2:6
<h3><verse=Joshua 2:6>Joshua 2:6</verse></h3>



But she had brought them up to the (c) roof of the house, and hid them with the stalks of flax,
which she had laid in order upon the roof.



(c) Meaning, on the house: for then their houses were flat above, so that they might do their
business on it.
#BCV:Joshua 2:9
<h3><verse=Joshua 2:9>Joshua 2:9</verse></h3>



And she said unto the men, I know that the LORD hath given you the land, and that your (d) terror
is fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land faint because of you.



(d) For so God promised, (<bcv=Deu 28:7>Deu 28:7</bcv>;<bcv=Jos 5:1> Jos 5:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 2:11
<h3><verse=Joshua 2:11>Joshua 2:11</verse></h3>



And as soon as we had heard [these things], our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more
courage in any man, because of you: for (e) the LORD your God, he [is] God in heaven above, and
in earth beneath.



(e) In this the great mercy of God appears, that in this common destruction he would draw a most
miserable sinner to repent, and confess his Name.
#BCV:Joshua 2:14
<h3><verse=Joshua 2:14>Joshua 2:14</verse></h3>

<page=457>And the men answered her, (f) Our life for yours, if ye utter not this our business. And it shall be,
when the LORD hath given us the land, that we will deal kindly and truly with thee.



(f) We warrant you on pain of our lives.
#BCV:Joshua 2:16
<h3><verse=Joshua 2:16>Joshua 2:16</verse></h3>



And she said unto them, Get you to the (g) mountain, lest the pursuers meet you; and hide
yourselves there three days, until the pursuers be returned: and afterward may ye go your way.



(g) which was near to the city.
#BCV:Joshua 2:17
<h3><verse=Joshua 2:17>Joshua 2:17</verse></h3>



And the men said unto her, (h) We [will be] blameless of this thine oath which thou hast made us
swear.



(h) We will be released from our oath if you perform this condition that follows for so shall you and
yours be delivered.
#BCV:Joshua 2:19
<h3><verse=Joshua 2:19>Joshua 2:19</verse></h3>



And it shall be, [that] whosoever shall go out of the doors of thy house into the street, (i) his blood
[shall be] upon his head, and we [will be] guiltless: and whosoever shall be with thee in the house, his
blood [shall be] on our head, if [any] hand be upon him.



(i) He shall be guilty of his own death.
#BCV:Joshua 2:20
<h3><verse=Joshua 2:20>Joshua 2:20</verse></h3>



And if thou utter this our (k) business, then we will be quit of thine oath which thou hast made us
to swear.



(k) So that others should think to escape by the same means.

<h2>Joshua 3</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 3:1
<h3><verse=Joshua 3:1>Joshua 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=458>And Joshua rose early in the morning; and they removed from Shittim, and came to (a) Jordan, he
and all the children of Israel, and lodged there before they passed over.



(a) Which according to the Hebrews was in March, about 40 days after Moses' death.
#BCV:Joshua 3:2
<h3><verse=Joshua 3:2>Joshua 3:2</verse></h3>



And it came to pass after (b) three days, that the officers went through the host;



(b) Which was given to prepare food (<bcv=Jos 1:11>Jos 1:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 3:8
<h3><verse=Joshua 3:8>Joshua 3:8</verse></h3>



And thou shalt command the priests that bear the ark of the covenant, saying, When ye are come to
the brink of the water of Jordan, ye shall stand still (c) in Jordan.



(c) Even in the channel where the stream had run, (<bcv=Jos 3:17>Jos 3:17</bcv>)
#BCV:Joshua 3:10
<h3><verse=Joshua 3:10>Joshua 3:10</verse></h3>



And Joshua said, (d) Hereby ye shall know that the living God [is] among you, and [that] he will
without fail drive out from before you the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Hivites, and the
Perizzites, and the Girgashites, and the Amorites, and the Jebusites.



(d) By this miracle in dividing the water.
#BCV:Joshua 3:12
<h3><verse=Joshua 3:12>Joshua 3:12</verse></h3>



Now therefore take you (e) twelve men out of the tribes of Israel, out of every tribe a man.



(e) Who would set up twelve stones in remembrance of the benefit.
#BCV:Joshua 3:15
<h3><verse=Joshua 3:15>Joshua 3:15</verse></h3>



And as they that bare the ark were come unto Jordan, and the feet of the priests that bare the ark
were dipped in the brim of the water, (for Jordan overfloweth all his (f) banks all the time of
harvest,)



(f) Because the river was accustomed at this time to be full, the miracle is so much greater.
#BCV:Joshua 3:17
<h3><verse=Joshua 3:17>Joshua 3:17</verse></h3>

#BCV:jos 3:17
<h3><verse=jos 3:17>jos 3:17</verse></h3>



midst of Jordan, and all the Israelites passed over on dry ground, until all the people were passed
clean over Jordan.



(g) Either tarrying till the people were past, or as some read, sure, as though they had been on dry
land.

<h2>Joshua 4</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 4:3
<h3><verse=Joshua 4:3>Joshua 4:3</verse></h3>

<page=460>And command ye them, saying, Take you hence out of the midst of Jordan, out of the place where
the priests' feet stood (a) firm, twelve stones, and ye shall carry them over with you, and leave them
in the (b) lodging place, where ye shall lodge this night.



(a) As in (<bcv=Jos 3:17>Jos 3:17</bcv>).



(b) Meaning, the place where they would camp.
#BCV:Joshua 4:6
<h3><verse=Joshua 4:6>Joshua 4:6</verse></h3>



That this may be a sign among you, [that] when your (c) children ask [their fathers] in time to come,
saying, What [mean] ye by these stones?



(c) God commands that not only we ourselves profit by this wonderful work, but that our posterity
may know the cause of it, and glorify his Name.
#BCV:Joshua 4:9
<h3><verse=Joshua 4:9>Joshua 4:9</verse></h3>



And Joshua set up (d) twelve stones in the midst of Jordan, in the place where the feet of the priests
which bare the ark of the covenant stood: and they are there unto this day.



(d) Besides the twelve stones that were carried by the tribes and set up in Gilgal.
#BCV:Joshua 4:11
<h3><verse=Joshua 4:11>Joshua 4:11</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when all the people were clean passed over, that the ark of the LORD passed
over, and the priests, (e) in the presence of the people.



(e) Meaning, in the presence or sight of the people.
#BCV:Joshua 4:13
<h3><verse=Joshua 4:13>Joshua 4:13</verse></h3>



About forty thousand prepared for war passed over before the (f) LORD unto battle, to the plains
of Jericho.



(f) That is, before the Ark.
#BCV:Joshua 4:16
<h3><verse=Joshua 4:16>Joshua 4:16</verse></h3>



Command the priests that bear the (g) ark of the testimony, that they come up out of Jordan.

<page=461>(g) Because the ark testified God's presence, and the tables of the Law contained in it signified
God's will toward his people.
#BCV:Joshua 4:19
<h3><verse=Joshua 4:19>Joshua 4:19</verse></h3>



And the people came up out of Jordan on the tenth [day] of the (h) first month, and encamped in
Gilgal, in the east border of Jericho.



(h) Called Abib or Nisan, containing part of March and part of April.
#BCV:Joshua 4:24
<h3><verse=Joshua 4:24>Joshua 4:24</verse></h3>



That all the people of the (i) earth might know the hand of the LORD, that it [is] mighty: that ye
might fear the LORD your God for ever.



(i) God's benefits serve as a further condemnation to the wicked, and stir up his own to reverence
and obey him.

<h2>Joshua 5</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 5:1
<h3><verse=Joshua 5:1>Joshua 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=462>And it came to pass, when all the kings of the (a) Amorites, which [were] on the side of Jordan
westward, and all the kings of the Canaanites, which [were] by the sea, heard that the LORD had
dried up the waters of Jordan from before the children of Israel, until we were passed over, that
their heart melted, neither was there spirit in them any more, because of the children of Israel.



(a) The Amorites were on both sides of Jordan, of which two kings were slain already on the side
toward Moab.
#BCV:Joshua 5:2
<h3><verse=Joshua 5:2>Joshua 5:2</verse></h3>



At that time the LORD said unto Joshua, Make thee sharp knives, (b) and circumcise again the
children of Israel the second time.



(b) For now they had left it off, about 40 years.
#BCV:Joshua 5:3
<h3><verse=Joshua 5:3>Joshua 5:3</verse></h3>



And Joshua made him sharp knives, and circumcised the children of Israel at (c) the hill of the
foreskins.



(c) Gilgal was so called, because they were there circumcised.
#BCV:Joshua 5:5
<h3><verse=Joshua 5:5>Joshua 5:5</verse></h3>



Now all the people that came out were circumcised: but all the people [that were] born in the
wilderness by the way as they came forth out of Egypt, [them] they had (d) not circumcised.



(d) For they looked daily to move at the Lord's command, which they who were newly circumcised
could not do without great danger.
#BCV:Joshua 5:8
<h3><verse=Joshua 5:8>Joshua 5:8</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when they had done circumcising all the people, that they abode in their places
in the camp, till they (e) were whole.



(e) For their sore was so grievous, that they were not able to move.
#BCV:Joshua 5:9
<h3><verse=Joshua 5:9>Joshua 5:9</verse></h3>

<page=463>And the LORD said unto Joshua, This day have I rolled away the (f) reproach of Egypt from off
you. Wherefore the name of the place is called Gilgal unto this day.



(f) By bringing you into this promised land, contrary to the wicked opinion of the Egyptians or the
foreskin by which you were like the Egyptians.
#BCV:Joshua 5:14
<h3><verse=Joshua 5:14>Joshua 5:14</verse></h3>



And he said, Nay; but [as] captain of the host of the LORD am I now come. And Joshua fell on his
face to the earth, and (g) did worship, and said unto him, What saith my lord unto his servant?



(g) In that Joshua worships him, he acknowledges him to be God: and in that he calls himself the
Lord's captain he declares himself to be Christ.

<h2>Joshua 6</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 6:1
<h3><verse=Joshua 6:1>Joshua 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=464>Now Jericho was straitly (a) (b) shut up (c) because of the children of Israel: none went out, and
none came in.



(a) That none could go out.



(b) That none could go in.



(c) for fear of the Israelites.
#BCV:Joshua 6:3
<h3><verse=Joshua 6:3>Joshua 6:3</verse></h3>



And ye shall compass the city, all [ye] men of war, [and] go round about the city (d) once. Thus shalt
thou do six days.



(d) Every day one.
#BCV:Joshua 6:4
<h3><verse=Joshua 6:4>Joshua 6:4</verse></h3>



And seven priests shall bear before the ark seven trumpets of (e) rams' horns: and the seventh day
ye shall compass the city seven times, and the priests shall blow with the trumpets.



(e) That the conquest might not be assigned to man's power, but to the mercy of God, which with
most weak things can overcome that which seems most strong.
#BCV:Joshua 6:7
<h3><verse=Joshua 6:7>Joshua 6:7</verse></h3>



And he said unto the people, (f) Pass on, and compass the city, and let him that is armed pass on
before the ark of the LORD.



(f) This is chiefly meant by the Reubenites, Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh.
#BCV:Joshua 6:9
<h3><verse=Joshua 6:9>Joshua 6:9</verse></h3>



And the armed men went before the priests that blew with the trumpets, and the (g) rereward came
after the ark, [the priests] going on, and blowing with the trumpets.



(g) Meaning, the gathering host, in which was the standard of the tribe of Dan, (<bcv=Num 10:25>Num 10:25</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 6:11
<h3><verse=Joshua 6:11>Joshua 6:11</verse></h3>

<page=465>So the ark of the LORD compassed the city, going about [it] (h) once: and they came into the camp,
and lodged in the camp.



(h) For that day.
#BCV:Joshua 6:13
<h3><verse=Joshua 6:13>Joshua 6:13</verse></h3>



And seven priests bearing seven trumpets of rams' horns before the ark of the LORD went on
continually, and blew with the trumpets: and the armed men went before them; but the (i) rereward
came after the ark of the LORD, [the priests] going on, and blowing with the trumpets.



(i) The tribe of Dan was so called, because it marched last and gathered up whatever was left of
others.
#BCV:Joshua 6:15
<h3><verse=Joshua 6:15>Joshua 6:15</verse></h3>



And it came to pass on the seventh day, that they rose early about the dawning of the day, and
compassed the city after the same manner (k) seven times: only on that day they compassed the city
seven times.



(k) Beside every day once for the space of six days.
#BCV:Joshua 6:17
<h3><verse=Joshua 6:17>Joshua 6:17</verse></h3>



And the city shall be (l) accursed, [even] it, and all that [are] therein, to the LORD: only Rahab the
harlot shall live, she and all that [are] with her in the house, because she hid the messengers that we
sent.



(l) That is appointed wholly to be destroyed.
#BCV:Joshua 6:19
<h3><verse=Joshua 6:19>Joshua 6:19</verse></h3>



But all the silver, and gold, and vessels of brass and iron, [are] (m) consecrated unto the LORD: they
shall come into the treasury of the LORD.



(m) And therefore cannot be put to any private use, but must be first molten, and then serve for the
Tabernacle.
#BCV:Joshua 6:23
<h3><verse=Joshua 6:23>Joshua 6:23</verse></h3>



And the young men that were spies went in, and brought out Rahab, and her father, and her mother,
and her brethren, and all that she had; and they brought out all her kindred, and left them (n)
without the camp of Israel.

<page=466>(n) For it was not lawful for strangers to dwell among the Israelites, till they were purged.
#BCV:Joshua 6:24
<h3><verse=Joshua 6:24>Joshua 6:24</verse></h3>



And they burnt the city with fire, and all that [was] therein: only the silver, and the gold, and the
vessels of brass and of iron, they put into the treasury of the (o) house of the LORD.



(o) Meaning, the tabernacle.
#BCV:Joshua 6:25
<h3><verse=Joshua 6:25>Joshua 6:25</verse></h3>



And Joshua saved Rahab the harlot alive, and her father's household, and all that she had; and she (p)
dwelleth in Israel [even] unto this day; because she hid the messengers, which Joshua sent to spy out
Jericho.



(p) For she was married to Salmon prince of the tribe of Judah, (<bcv=Mat 1:5>Mat 1:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 6:26
<h3><verse=Joshua 6:26>Joshua 6:26</verse></h3>



And Joshua adjured [them] at that time, saying, Cursed [be] the man before the LORD, that riseth up
and buildeth this city Jericho: (q) he shall lay the foundation thereof in his firstborn, and in his
youngest [son] shall he set up the gates of it.



(q) He will build it to the destruction of all his stock, which was fulfilled in Hiel of Beth-el, 
(<bcv=1Kings 16:34>Kg1 16:34</bcv>).

<h2>Joshua 7</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 7:1
<h3><verse=Joshua 7:1>Joshua 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=467>But the children of Israel committed a trespass in the (a) accursed thing: for Achan, the son of
Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took of the accursed thing: and
the anger of the LORD was kindled against the children of Israel.



(a) In taking that which was commanded to be destroyed.
#BCV:Joshua 7:2
<h3><verse=Joshua 7:2>Joshua 7:2</verse></h3>



And Joshua sent men from Jericho to (b) Ai, which [is] beside Bethaven, on the east side of Bethel,
and spake unto them, saying, Go up and view the country. And the men went up and viewed Ai.



(b) This was a city of the Amorites: for there was another so called among the Amorites, (<bcv=Jer 49:3>Jer 49:3</bcv>).
The first Ai is called Aiah, (<bcv=Isa 10:28>Isa 10:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 7:5
<h3><verse=Joshua 7:5>Joshua 7:5</verse></h3>



And the (c) men of Ai smote of them about thirty and six men: for they chased them [from] before
the gate [even] unto Shebarim, and smote them in the going down: wherefore the hearts of the
people melted, and became as water.



(c) God would by this overthrow make them more earnest to search out and punish the sin
committed.
#BCV:Joshua 7:7
<h3><verse=Joshua 7:7>Joshua 7:7</verse></h3>



And Joshua said, Alas, O Lord GOD, wherefore hast thou at all brought this people over Jordan, to
deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us? would to God we had been content, and
dwelt on the (d) other side Jordan!



(d) This infirmity of his faith shows how we are inclined by nature to distrust.
#BCV:Joshua 7:9
<h3><verse=Joshua 7:9>Joshua 7:9</verse></h3>



For the Canaanites and all the inhabitants of the land shall hear [of it], and shall environ us round,
and cut off our name from the earth: and what wilt thou do unto thy great (e) name?



(e) When your enemies will blaspheme you and say that you were not able to defend us from them.
#BCV:Joshua 7:12
<h3><verse=Joshua 7:12>Joshua 7:12</verse></h3>

<page=468>Therefore the children of Israel could not stand before their enemies, [but] turned [their] backs
before their enemies, because they were accursed: neither will I be with you any more, except ye (f)
destroy the accursed from among you.



(f) Then to allow wickedness unpunished, is to refuse God willingly.
#BCV:Joshua 7:13
<h3><verse=Joshua 7:13>Joshua 7:13</verse></h3>



Up, sanctify the people, and say, Sanctify yourselves against to morrow: for thus saith the LORD
God of Israel, [There is] an accursed thing in the midst of thee, O Israel: thou canst not stand
before thine enemies, until ye take away the (g) accursed thing from among you.



(g) Meaning, the man that took of the thing forbidden.
#BCV:Joshua 7:15
<h3><verse=Joshua 7:15>Joshua 7:15</verse></h3>



And it shall be, [that] he that is (h) taken with the accursed thing shall be burnt with fire, he and all
that he hath: because he hath transgressed the covenant of the LORD, and because he hath wrought
folly in Israel.



(h) That is found guilty, either by lots, or by the judgment of Urim. (<bcv=Num 27:21>Num 27:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 7:19
<h3><verse=Joshua 7:19>Joshua 7:19</verse></h3>



And Joshua said unto Achan, My son, give, I pray thee, glory to the LORD God of Israel, and (i)
make confession unto him; and tell me now what thou hast done; hide [it] not from me.



(i) By declaring truth: for God is glorified when the truth is confessed.
#BCV:Joshua 7:21
<h3><verse=Joshua 7:21>Joshua 7:21</verse></h3>



When I saw among the spoils a goodly (k) Babylonish garment, and two hundred shekels of silver,
and a wedge of gold of fifty shekels weight, then I coveted them, and took them; and, behold, they
[are] hid in the earth in the midst of my tent, and the silver under it.



(k) Such a rich garment as the states of Babylon wore.
#BCV:Joshua 7:24
<h3><verse=Joshua 7:24>Joshua 7:24</verse></h3>



And Joshua, and all Israel with him, took Achan the son of Zerah, and the silver, and the garment,
and the (l) wedge of gold, and his (m) sons, and his daughters, and his oxen, and his asses, and his
sheep, and his tent, and all that he had: and they brought them unto the valley of Achor.



(l) Some read a plate: others, a rod, and some a tongue.

<page=469>(m) This judgment belonged only to God, and to whom he will reveal it. He had commanded man
not to punish the child for the father's sins, (<bcv=Deu 24:16>Deu 24:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 7:25
<h3><verse=Joshua 7:25>Joshua 7:25</verse></h3>



And Joshua said, (n) Why hast thou troubled us? the LORD shall trouble thee this day. And all Israel
stoned him with stones, and burned them with fire, after they had stoned them with stones.



(n) He declares that this is God's judgment because he had offended, and caused others to be slain.

<h2>Joshua 8</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 8:2
<h3><verse=Joshua 8:2>Joshua 8:2</verse></h3>

<page=470>And thou shalt do to Ai and her king as thou didst unto Jericho and her king: only the spoil thereof,
and the cattle thereof, shall ye take for a prey unto yourselves: lay thee an ambush for the city (a)
behind it.



(a) Meaning on the west side, as in (<bcv=Jos 8:9>Jos 8:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 8:4
<h3><verse=Joshua 8:4>Joshua 8:4</verse></h3>



And he commanded them, saying, Behold, ye (b) shall lie in wait against the city, [even] behind the
city: go not very far from the city, but be ye all ready:



(b) God would not destroy Ai by a miracle, as Jericho, so that other nations would fear the power
and policy of his people.
#BCV:Joshua 8:9
<h3><verse=Joshua 8:9>Joshua 8:9</verse></h3>



Joshua therefore sent them forth: and they went to lie in ambush, and abode between Bethel and Ai,
on the west side of Ai: but Joshua lodged that night (c) among the people.



(c) With the rest of the army.
#BCV:Joshua 8:10
<h3><verse=Joshua 8:10>Joshua 8:10</verse></h3>



And Joshua rose up early in the morning, and (d) numbered the people, and went up, he and the
elders of Israel, before the people to Ai.



(d) That is, viewed or mustered them and set them in array.
#BCV:Joshua 8:12
<h3><verse=Joshua 8:12>Joshua 8:12</verse></h3>



And he took about five thousand men, (e) and set them to lie in ambush between Bethel and Ai, on
the west side of the city.



(e) He sent these few, that the others who lay in ambush might not be discovered.
#BCV:Joshua 8:13
<h3><verse=Joshua 8:13>Joshua 8:13</verse></h3>



And when they had set the people, [even] all the host that [was] on the north of the city, and their
liers in wait on the west of the city, Joshua went that night into the (f) midst of the valley.

<page=471>(f) To the intent that they in the city more easily discover his army.
#BCV:Joshua 8:15
<h3><verse=Joshua 8:15>Joshua 8:15</verse></h3>



And Joshua and all Israel (g) made as if they were beaten before them, and fled by the way of the
wilderness.



(g) As they who pretended to flee for fear.
#BCV:Joshua 8:18
<h3><verse=Joshua 8:18>Joshua 8:18</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Joshua, (h) Stretch out the spear that [is] in thy hand toward Ai; for I will
give it into thine hand. And Joshua stretched out the spear that [he had] in his hand toward the city.



(h) Or, lift up the banner to signify when they should invade the city.
#BCV:Joshua 8:22
<h3><verse=Joshua 8:22>Joshua 8:22</verse></h3>



And the (i) other issued out of the city against them; so they were in the midst of Israel, some on
this side, and some on that side: and they smote them, so that they let none of them remain or
escape.



(i) Who came out of the ambush.
#BCV:Joshua 8:24
<h3><verse=Joshua 8:24>Joshua 8:24</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when Israel had made an end of slaying all the inhabitants of Ai in the field, in
the wilderness wherein they chased them, and when they were all fallen on the edge of the sword,
until they were consumed, that all the Israelites returned unto Ai, and (k) smote it with the edge of
the sword.



(k) For the fire, which they had before set in the city, was not to consume it, but to signify to Joshua
that they had entered.
#BCV:Joshua 8:28
<h3><verse=Joshua 8:28>Joshua 8:28</verse></h3>



And Joshua burnt Ai, and made it an heap for (l) ever, [even] a desolation unto this day.



(l) That it could never be built again.
#BCV:Joshua 8:29
<h3><verse=Joshua 8:29>Joshua 8:29</verse></h3>

<page=472>And the king of Ai he hanged on a tree until eventide: and as soon as the sun was down, Joshua
commanded (m) that they should take his carcase down from the tree, and cast it at the entering of
the gate of the city, and raise thereon a great heap of stones, [that remaineth] unto this day.



(m) According as it was commanded, (<bcv=Deu 21:23>Deu 21:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 8:32
<h3><verse=Joshua 8:32>Joshua 8:32</verse></h3>



And he wrote there upon the stones a (n) copy of the law of Moses, which he wrote in the presence
of the children of Israel.



(n) Meaning, the ten commandments, which are the sum of the whole Law.
#BCV:Joshua 8:35
<h3><verse=Joshua 8:35>Joshua 8:35</verse></h3>



There was not a word of all that Moses commanded, which Joshua read not before all the
congregation of Israel, with the (o) women, and the little ones, and the strangers that were
conversant among them.



(o) So neither young nor old, man nor woman, were exempted from hearing the word of the Lord.

<h2>Joshua 9</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 9:1
<h3><verse=Joshua 9:1>Joshua 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=473>And it came to pass, when all the kings which (a) [were] on this side Jordan, in the hills, and in the
valleys, and in all the coasts of the (b) great sea over against Lebanon, the Hittite, and the Amorite,
the Canaanite, the Perizzite, the Hivite, and the Jebusite, heard [thereof];



(a) In respect to the plain of Moab.



(b) The main sea called the Mediterranean.
#BCV:Joshua 9:4
<h3><verse=Joshua 9:4>Joshua 9:4</verse></h3>



They did work wilily, and went and made as if they had been ambassadors, and took old sacks upon
their asses, and wine bottles, old, and rent, and (c) bound up;



(c) Because they were all worn.
#BCV:Joshua 9:7
<h3><verse=Joshua 9:7>Joshua 9:7</verse></h3>



And the men of Israel said unto the (d) Hivites, Peradventure ye dwell among us; and how shall we
make a league with you?



(d) For the Gibeonites and the Hivites were all one people.
#BCV:Joshua 9:9
<h3><verse=Joshua 9:9>Joshua 9:9</verse></h3>



And they said unto him, From a very far country thy servants are come because of (e) the name of
the LORD thy God: for we have heard the fame of him, and all that he did in Egypt,



(e) Even the idolaters for fear of death will pretend to honour the true God, and receive his religion.
#BCV:Joshua 9:12
<h3><verse=Joshua 9:12>Joshua 9:12</verse></h3>



This our (f) bread we took hot [for] our provision out of our houses on the day we came forth to go
unto you; but now, behold, it is dry, and it is mouldy:



(f) The wicked lack no art, nor spare no lies to set forth their policy, when they will deceive the
servants of God.
#BCV:Joshua 9:14
<h3><verse=Joshua 9:14>Joshua 9:14</verse></h3>



And the (g) men took of their victuals, and asked not [counsel] at the mouth of the LORD.

<page=474>(g) Some think that the Israelites are of their victuals, and so made a league with them.
#BCV:Joshua 9:17
<h3><verse=Joshua 9:17>Joshua 9:17</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel (h) journeyed, and came unto their cities on the third day. Now their cities
[were] Gibeon, and Chephirah, and Beeroth, and Kirjathjearim.



(h) From Gilgal.
#BCV:Joshua 9:18
<h3><verse=Joshua 9:18>Joshua 9:18</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel smote them not, because the princes of the congregation had sworn unto
them by the LORD God of Israel. And all the congregation (l) murmured against the princes.



(l) Fearing lest for their sin the plague of God would have come on them all.
#BCV:Joshua 9:20
<h3><verse=Joshua 9:20>Joshua 9:20</verse></h3>



This we will do to them; we will even let them live, lest wrath be upon us, because of the (k) oath
which we sware unto them.



(k) This does not establish rash oaths, but shows God's mercy toward his, who would not punish
them for their sin.
#BCV:Joshua 9:23
<h3><verse=Joshua 9:23>Joshua 9:23</verse></h3>



Now therefore ye [are] cursed, and there shall none of you be freed from being bondmen, and
hewers of wood and drawers of water for (l) the house of my God.



(l) For the use of the tabernacle and the temple when it will be built.
#BCV:Joshua 9:26
<h3><verse=Joshua 9:26>Joshua 9:26</verse></h3>



And so did he unto them, and delivered them out of the (m) hand of the children of Israel, that
they slew them not.



(m) Who were minded to put them to death for fear of God's wrath.
#BCV:Joshua 9:27
<h3><verse=Joshua 9:27>Joshua 9:27</verse></h3>



And Joshua made them that day hewers of wood and drawers of water for the congregation, and for
the (n) altar of the LORD, even unto this day, in the place which he should choose.



(n) That is, for the service of the temple, as in (<bcv=Jos 9:23>Jos 9:23</bcv>).

<h2>Joshua 10</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 10:3
<h3><verse=Joshua 10:3>Joshua 10:3</verse></h3>

<page=475>Wherefore (a) Adonizedek king of Jerusalem sent unto Hoham king of Hebron, and unto Piram
king of Jarmuth, and unto Japhia king of Lachish, and unto Debir king of Eglon, saying,



(a) That is, "Lord of justice", so tyrants take for themselves glorious names, when indeed they are
the very enemies of God and all justice.
#BCV:Joshua 10:5
<h3><verse=Joshua 10:5>Joshua 10:5</verse></h3>



Therefore the five kings of the Amorites, the king of Jerusalem, the king of Hebron, the king of
Jarmuth, the king of Lachish, the king of Eglon, gathered themselves together, and went up, they
and all their hosts, and encamped before Gibeon, and made (b) war against it.



(b) So envious the wicked are, when any depart from their hand.
#BCV:Joshua 10:8
<h3><verse=Joshua 10:8>Joshua 10:8</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Joshua, (c) Fear them not: for I have delivered them into thine hand; there
shall not a man of them stand before thee.



(c) Lest Joshua should have thought that God had sent this great power against him for his unlawful
league with the Gibeonites, the Lord here strengthens him.
#BCV:Joshua 10:11
<h3><verse=Joshua 10:11>Joshua 10:11</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, as they fled from before Israel, [and] were in the going down to Bethhoron,
that the LORD cast down great stones from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died: [they
were] more which died with (d) hailstones than [they] whom the children of Israel slew with the
sword.



(d) So we see that all things serve to execute God's vengeance against the wicked.
#BCV:Joshua 10:13
<h3><verse=Joshua 10:13>Joshua 10:13</verse></h3>



And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their
enemies. [Is] not this written in the book of (e) Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven,
and hasted not to go down about a whole day.



(e) Some read, the book of the righteous, meaning Moses: the Chaldea text reads, in the book of the
Law, but it is likely that it was a book thus named, which is now lost.
#BCV:Joshua 10:14
<h3><verse=Joshua 10:14>Joshua 10:14</verse></h3>

<page=476>And there was no day like that before it or after it, that the LORD hearkened unto the voice of a
man: for the LORD (f) fought for Israel.



(f) By taking away the enemies hearts and destroying them with the hail stones.
#BCV:Joshua 10:21
<h3><verse=Joshua 10:21>Joshua 10:21</verse></h3>



And all the people returned to the camp to Joshua at Makkedah in (g) peace: none moved his tongue
against any of the children of Israel.



(g) Or in safety, so that none gave them as much as an evil word.
#BCV:Joshua 10:24
<h3><verse=Joshua 10:24>Joshua 10:24</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when they brought out those kings unto Joshua, that Joshua called for all the
men of Israel, and said unto the captains of the men of war which went with him, Come near, put
your feet upon the (h) necks of these kings. And they came near, and put their feet upon the necks
of them.



(h) Signifying what would become of the rest of God's enemies, seeing that kings themselves were
not spared.
#BCV:Joshua 10:40
<h3><verse=Joshua 10:40>Joshua 10:40</verse></h3>



So Joshua smote all the country of the hills, and of the south, and of the (i) vale, and of the springs,
and all their kings: he left none remaining, but utterly destroyed all that breathed, as the LORD God
of Israel commanded.



(i) Some read, Ashedoth, which signifies the descents of the hills.
#BCV:Joshua 10:42
<h3><verse=Joshua 10:42>Joshua 10:42</verse></h3>



And all these kings and their land did Joshua take at (k) one time, because the LORD God of Israel
fought for Israel.



(k) In one battle.
#BCV:Joshua 10:43
<h3><verse=Joshua 10:43>Joshua 10:43</verse></h3>



And Joshua returned, and all Israel with him, unto the camp to (l) Gilgal.

<page=477>(l) Where the ark was, there to give thanks for their victories.

<h2>Joshua 11</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 11:1
<h3><verse=Joshua 11:1>Joshua 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=478>And it came to pass, when Jabin king of Hazor had heard [those things], that he (a) sent to Jobab
king of Madon, and to the king of Shimron, and to the king of Achshaph,



(a) The more God's power appears, the more the wicked rage against it.
#BCV:Joshua 11:2
<h3><verse=Joshua 11:2>Joshua 11:2</verse></h3>



And to the kings that [were] on the north of the mountains, and of the plains south of (b)
Chinneroth, and in the valley, and in the borders of Dor on the west,



(b) Which the evangelists call the lake of Gennesaret, or Tiberias.
#BCV:Joshua 11:3
<h3><verse=Joshua 11:3>Joshua 11:3</verse></h3>



[And to] the Canaanite on the east and on the west, and [to] the Amorite, and the Hittite, and the
Perizzite, and the Jebusite in the mountains, and [to] the Hivite under (c) Hermon in the land of
Mizpeh.



(c) Which was mount Sion, as in (<bcv=Deu 4:48>Deu 4:48</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 11:6
<h3><verse=Joshua 11:6>Joshua 11:6</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Joshua, Be not afraid because of them: for to morrow about this time will
I deliver them up all slain before Israel: thou shalt (d) hough their horses, and burn their chariots
with fire.



(d) That neither they should serve to the use of war, nor the Israelites should put their trust in them.
#BCV:Joshua 11:8
<h3><verse=Joshua 11:8>Joshua 11:8</verse></h3>



And the LORD delivered them into the hand of Israel, who smote them, and chased them unto
great Zidon, and unto (e) Misrephothmaim, and unto the valley of Mizpeh eastward; and they smote
them, until they left them none remaining.



(e) Which signifies hot waters, or according to some, brine pits.
#BCV:Joshua 11:11
<h3><verse=Joshua 11:11>Joshua 11:11</verse></h3>



And they smote all the (f) souls that [were] therein with the edge of the sword, utterly destroying
[them]: there was not any left to breathe: and he burnt Hazor with fire.

<page=479>(f) Both men, women and children.
#BCV:Joshua 11:13
<h3><verse=Joshua 11:13>Joshua 11:13</verse></h3>



But [as for] the cities that stood still in their (g) strength, Israel burned none of them, save Hazor
only; [that] did Joshua burn.



(g) Which were strong by situation and not hurt by war.
#BCV:Joshua 11:14
<h3><verse=Joshua 11:14>Joshua 11:14</verse></h3>



And all the spoil of these cities, and the cattle, the children of Israel took for a prey unto themselves;
but every (h) man they smote with the edge of the sword, until they had destroyed them, neither left
they any to breathe.



(h) All mankind.
#BCV:Joshua 11:16
<h3><verse=Joshua 11:16>Joshua 11:16</verse></h3>



So Joshua took all that land, the hills, and all the south country, and all the land of Goshen, and the
valley, and the plain, and the (i) mountain of Israel, and the valley of the same;



(i) That is, Samaria.
#BCV:Joshua 11:17
<h3><verse=Joshua 11:17>Joshua 11:17</verse></h3>



[Even] from the mount (k) Halak, that goeth up to Seir, even unto Baalgad in the valley of Lebanon
under mount Hermon: and all their kings he took, and smote them, and slew them.



(k) So called, because it was bare and without trees.
#BCV:Joshua 11:20
<h3><verse=Joshua 11:20>Joshua 11:20</verse></h3>



For it was of the LORD to (l) harden their hearts, that they should come against Israel in battle, that
he might destroy them utterly, [and] that they might have no favour, but that he might destroy them,
as the LORD commanded Moses.



(l) That is, to give them over to themselves: and therefore they could not but rebel against God and
seek their own destruction.
#BCV:Joshua 11:22
<h3><verse=Joshua 11:22>Joshua 11:22</verse></h3>

<page=480>There was none of the Anakims left in the land of the children of Israel: only in Gaza, (m) in Gath,
and in Ashdod, there remained.



(m) Out of which came Goliath, (<bcv=I Sa 17:4>Sa1 17:4</bcv>).

<h2>Joshua 12</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 12:1
<h3><verse=Joshua 12:1>Joshua 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=481>Now these [are] the kings of the land, which the children of Israel smote, and possessed their land
on the (a) other side Jordan toward the rising of the sun, from the river Arnon unto mount Hermon,
and all the plain on the east:



(a) From Gilgal where Joshua camped.
#BCV:Joshua 12:7
<h3><verse=Joshua 12:7>Joshua 12:7</verse></h3>



And these [are] the kings of the country which Joshua and the children of Israel smote on this side
Jordan on the west, from Baalgad in the valley of Lebanon even unto the mount (b) Halak, that
goeth up to Seir; which Joshua gave unto the tribes of Israel [for] a possession according to their
divisions;



(b) Read (<bcv=Jos 11:17>Jos 11:17</bcv>).

<h2>Joshua 13</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 13:1
<h3><verse=Joshua 13:1>Joshua 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=482>Now Joshua was old [and] (a) stricken in years; and the LORD said unto him, Thou art old [and]
stricken in years, and there remaineth yet very much land to be (b) possessed.



(a) Being almost a hundred and ten years old.



(b) After the enemies are overcome.
#BCV:Joshua 13:6
<h3><verse=Joshua 13:6>Joshua 13:6</verse></h3>



All the inhabitants of the hill country from Lebanon unto (c) Misrephothmaim, [and] all the
Sidonians, them will I drive out from before the children of Israel: only divide thou it by lot unto the
Israelites for an inheritance, as I have commanded thee.



(c) Read (<bcv=Jos 11:8>Jos 11:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 13:13
<h3><verse=Joshua 13:13>Joshua 13:13</verse></h3>



Nevertheless the children of Israel (d) expelled not the Geshurites, nor the Maachathites: but the
Geshurites and the Maachathites dwell among the Israelites until this day.



(d) Because they had not destroyed all as God had commanded they that remainder were snares and
pricks to hurt them, (<bcv=Num 33:35>Num 33:35</bcv>;<bcv=Jos 23:13> Jos 23:13</bcv>; Jdg 2:3).
#BCV:Joshua 13:14
<h3><verse=Joshua 13:14>Joshua 13:14</verse></h3>



Only unto the tribe of Levi he gave none inheritance; the sacrifices of the LORD God of Israel
made by fire [are] (e) their inheritance, as he said unto them.



(e) Levi will live by the sacrifices, (<bcv=Num 18:21>Num 18:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 13:22
<h3><verse=Joshua 13:22>Joshua 13:22</verse></h3>




(f) Balaam also the son of Beor, the soothsayer, did the children of Israel slay with the sword among
them that were slain by them.



(f) So that both they who obeyed wicked counsel and the wicked counsellor perished by the just
judgment of God.
#BCV:Joshua 13:27
<h3><verse=Joshua 13:27>Joshua 13:27</verse></h3>

<page=483>And in the valley, Betharam, and Bethnimrah, and Succoth, and Zaphon, the rest of the kingdom of
Sihon king of Heshbon, Jordan and [his] border, [even] unto the edge of the sea of Chinnereth on
the (g) other side Jordan eastward.



(g) That is, in the land of Moab.
#BCV:Joshua 13:31
<h3><verse=Joshua 13:31>Joshua 13:31</verse></h3>



And half Gilead, and Ashtaroth, and Edrei, cities of the kingdom of Og in Bashan, [were pertaining]
unto the (h) children of Machir the son of Manasseh, [even] to the one half of the children of
Machir by their families.



(h) Meaning, his nephews and posterity.

<h2>Joshua 14</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 14:3
<h3><verse=Joshua 14:3>Joshua 14:3</verse></h3>

<page=484>For Moses had given the inheritance of (a) two tribes and an half tribe on the other side Jordan: but
unto the Levites he gave none inheritance among them.



(a) As Reuben and Gad and half the tribe of Manasseh, (<bcv=Num 32:33>Num 32:33</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 14:4
<h3><verse=Joshua 14:4>Joshua 14:4</verse></h3>



For the children of Joseph were (b) two tribes, Manasseh and Ephraim: therefore they gave no part
unto the Levites in the land, save cities to dwell [in], with their suburbs for their cattle and for their
substance.



(b) So though Levi lacked, yet were there still twelve tribes by this means.
#BCV:Joshua 14:6
<h3><verse=Joshua 14:6>Joshua 14:6</verse></h3>



Then the children of Judah came unto Joshua in Gilgal: and Caleb the son of Jephunneh the
Kenezite said unto him, Thou knowest the thing that the LORD said unto Moses the man of God
concerning me and (c) thee in Kadeshbarnea.



(c) Which was that only those two should enter into the land, (<bcv=Num 14:24>Num 14:24</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 14:8
<h3><verse=Joshua 14:8>Joshua 14:8</verse></h3>



Nevertheless my (d) brethren that went up with me made the heart of the people melt: but I wholly
followed the LORD my God.



(d) Which were the ten other spies.
#BCV:Joshua 14:12
<h3><verse=Joshua 14:12>Joshua 14:12</verse></h3>



Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the LORD spake in that day; for thou heardest in
that day how the Anakims [were] there, and [that] the cities [were] great [and] fenced: (e) if so be the
LORD [will be] with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the LORD said.



(e) This he spoke out of modesty, and not from doubting.
#BCV:Joshua 14:15
<h3><verse=Joshua 14:15>Joshua 14:15</verse></h3>



And the name of Hebron before [was] Kirjatharba; [which Arba was] a (f) great man among the
Anakims. And the land had rest from war.

<page=485>(f) Either for his power or person.

<h2>Joshua 15</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 15:2
<h3><verse=Joshua 15:2>Joshua 15:2</verse></h3>

<page=486>And their south border was from the shore of the salt sea, from the (a) bay that looketh southward:


(a) The Hebrew word signifies tongue, by which it means either the arm of the sea that comes into
the land, or a rock, or cape that goes into the sea.
#BCV:Joshua 15:5
<h3><verse=Joshua 15:5>Joshua 15:5</verse></h3>



And the east border [was] the salt sea, [even] unto the (b) end of Jordan. And [their] border in the
north quarter [was] from the bay of the sea at the uttermost part of Jordan:



(b) Meaning the mouth of the river where it runs into the Salt sea.
#BCV:Joshua 15:6
<h3><verse=Joshua 15:6>Joshua 15:6</verse></h3>



And the border went up to Bethhogla, and passed along by the north of Betharabah; and the border
went up to the (c) stone of Bohan the son of Reuben:



(c) Which was a mark to part their countries.
#BCV:Joshua 15:11
<h3><verse=Joshua 15:11>Joshua 15:11</verse></h3>



And the border went out unto the side of Ekron northward: and the border was drawn to Shicron,
and passed along to mount Baalah, and went out unto Jabneel; and the goings out of the border
were at the (d) sea.



(d) Meaning, toward Syria.
#BCV:Joshua 15:14
<h3><verse=Joshua 15:14>Joshua 15:14</verse></h3>



And Caleb (e) drove thence the three sons of Anak, Sheshai, and Ahiman, and Talmai, the children
of Anak.



(e) This was done after the death of Joshua, <bcv=Jdg 1:10>(Jdg 1:10,</bcv><bcv=Jdg 1:20> Jdg 1:20).</bcv>

#BCV:Joshua 15:18
<h3><verse=Joshua 15:18>Joshua 15:18</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, as she came [unto him], that she moved him to ask of her father a field: (f) and
she lighted off [her] ass; and Caleb said unto her, What wouldest thou?



(f) Because her husband tarried too long.
#BCV:Joshua 15:19
<h3><verse=Joshua 15:19>Joshua 15:19</verse></h3>

<page=487>Who answered, Give me a blessing; for thou hast given me a south land; (g) give me also springs of
water. And he gave her the upper springs, and the nether springs.



(g) Because her country was barren, she wanted a field that had springs from her father. <bcv=Jdg 1:14-15>(Jdg 1:14-15).</bcv>

#BCV:Joshua 15:30
<h3><verse=Joshua 15:30>Joshua 15:30</verse></h3>

And Eltolad, and Chesil, and (h) Hormah,

(h) Which before was called Zephath, <bcv=Jdg 1:17>(Jdg 1:17).</bcv>

#BCV:Joshua 15:47
<h3><verse=Joshua 15:47>Joshua 15:47</verse></h3>



Ashdod with her towns and her villages, Gaza with her towns and her villages, unto the (i) river of
Egypt, and the great sea, and the border [thereof]:



(i) Meaning, the Nile (<bcv=Jos 13:3>Jos 13:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 15:49
<h3><verse=Joshua 15:49>Joshua 15:49</verse></h3>



And Dannah, and (k) Kirjathsannah, which [is] Debir,



(k) Which is also called Kirjath-sepher, (<bcv=Jos 15:15>Jos 15:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 15:62
<h3><verse=Joshua 15:62>Joshua 15:62</verse></h3>



And Nibshan, and the (l) city of Salt, and Engedi; six cities with their villages.



(l) Of this city the salt sea has it's name.
#BCV:Joshua 15:63
<h3><verse=Joshua 15:63>Joshua 15:63</verse></h3>



As for the Jebusites the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the children of Judah could not drive them (m)
out: but the Jebusites dwell with the children of Judah at Jerusalem unto this day.

(m) That is, utterly, though they slew the most part, and burnt their city, <bcv=Jdg 1:8>(Jdg 1:8).</bcv>

<h2>Joshua 16</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 16:1
<h3><verse=Joshua 16:1>Joshua 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=488>And the lot of the (a) children of Joseph fell from Jordan by Jericho, unto the water of Jericho on
the east, to the wilderness that goeth up from Jericho throughout mount Bethel,



(a) That is, to Ephraim and his children: for Manasseh's portion follows.
#BCV:Joshua 16:3
<h3><verse=Joshua 16:3>Joshua 16:3</verse></h3>



And goeth down westward to the coast of Japhleti, unto the coast of Bethhoron the nether, and to
Gezer: and the goings out (b) thereof are at the sea.



(b) Of their inheritance.
#BCV:Joshua 16:4
<h3><verse=Joshua 16:4>Joshua 16:4</verse></h3>



So the children of Joseph, Manasseh and Ephraim, (c) took their inheritance.



(c) Severally, first Ephraim, and then Manasseh.
#BCV:Joshua 16:7
<h3><verse=Joshua 16:7>Joshua 16:7</verse></h3>



And it went down from Janohah to Ataroth, and to Naarath, and came to Jericho, (d) and went out
at Jordan.



(d) For so far the coasts reach.
#BCV:Joshua 16:9
<h3><verse=Joshua 16:9>Joshua 16:9</verse></h3>



And the (e) separate cities for the children of Ephraim [were] among the inheritance of the children
of Manasseh, all the cities with their villages.



(e) Because Ephraim's tribe was far greater than Manasseh, therefore he had more cities.

<h2>Joshua 17</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 17:2
<h3><verse=Joshua 17:2>Joshua 17:2</verse></h3>

<page=489>There was also [a lot] for the (a) rest of the children of Manasseh by their families; for the children
of Abiezer, and for the children of Helek, and for the children of Asriel, and for the children of
Shechem, and for the children of Hepher, and for the children of Shemida: these [were] the male
children of Manasseh the son of Joseph by their families.



(a) For the other half tribe had their portion beyond Jordan.
#BCV:Joshua 17:4
<h3><verse=Joshua 17:4>Joshua 17:4</verse></h3>



And they came near before Eleazar the priest, and before Joshua the son of Nun, and before the
princes, saying, The LORD commanded Moses to give us an inheritance among our (b) brethren.
Therefore according to the commandment of the LORD he gave them an inheritance among the
brethren of their father.



(b) Among them of our tribe.
#BCV:Joshua 17:5
<h3><verse=Joshua 17:5>Joshua 17:5</verse></h3>



And there fell ten portions to (c) Manasseh, beside the land of Gilead and Bashan, which [were] on
the other side Jordan;



(c) In the land of canaan: five to the males: and other five to the daughters of Zelophehad.
#BCV:Joshua 17:8
<h3><verse=Joshua 17:8>Joshua 17:8</verse></h3>



[Now] Manasseh had the land of Tappuah: but (d) Tappuah on the border of Manasseh [belonged]
to the children of Ephraim;



(d) Meaning, the city itself.
#BCV:Joshua 17:9
<h3><verse=Joshua 17:9>Joshua 17:9</verse></h3>



And the coast descended unto the river Kanah, southward of the river: these cities of Ephraim [are]
among the cities of Manasseh: the coast of Manasseh also [was] on the north side of the river, and
the outgoings of it were at the (e) sea:



(e) That is, toward the main sea.
#BCV:Joshua 17:10
<h3><verse=Joshua 17:10>Joshua 17:10</verse></h3>

<page=490>Southward [it was] Ephraim's, and northward [it was] Manasseh's, and the sea is his border; and they
met together in (f) Asher on the north, and in Issachar on the east.



(f) In the tribe of Asher, and tribe of Issachar.
#BCV:Joshua 17:12
<h3><verse=Joshua 17:12>Joshua 17:12</verse></h3>



Yet the children of Manasseh (g) could not drive out [the inhabitants of] those cities; but the
Canaanites would dwell in that land.



(g) For at first they lacked courage, and later agreed with them on condition, contrary to God's
commandment.
#BCV:Joshua 17:14
<h3><verse=Joshua 17:14>Joshua 17:14</verse></h3>



And the children of Joseph spake unto Joshua, saying, Why hast thou given me [but] one lot and
one portion to inherit, seeing I [am] a great people, forasmuch as the LORD hath (h) blessed me
hitherto?



(h) According to my father Jacob's prophecy, (<bcv=Gen 48:19>Gen 48:19</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 17:15
<h3><verse=Joshua 17:15>Joshua 17:15</verse></h3>



And Joshua answered them, If thou [be] a great people, [then] get thee up to the wood [country],
and cut down for thyself there in the land of the Perizzites and of the giants, (i) if mount Ephraim
be too narrow for thee.



(i) If this mount is not large enough, why do you not get more by destroying God's enemies, as he
has commanded.
#BCV:Joshua 17:18
<h3><verse=Joshua 17:18>Joshua 17:18</verse></h3>



But the mountain shall be thine; for it [is] a wood, and thou shalt cut it down: and the outgoings of
it shall be thine: (k) for thou shalt drive out the Canaanites, though they have iron chariots, [and]
though they [be] strong.



(k) So that you shall enlarge your portion by it.

<h2>Joshua 18</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 18:1
<h3><verse=Joshua 18:1>Joshua 18:1</verse></h3>

<page=491>And the whole congregation of the children of Israel assembled together at Shiloh, and set up the (a)
tabernacle of the congregation there. And the land was subdued before them.



(a) For they had now removed it from Gilgal, and set it up in Shiloh.
#BCV:Joshua 18:2
<h3><verse=Joshua 18:2>Joshua 18:2</verse></h3>



And there remained among the children of Israel seven tribes, (b) which had not yet received their
inheritance.



(b) As Eleazar, Joshua, and the heads of the tribes had done to Judah, Ephraim, and half of
Manasseh.
#BCV:Joshua 18:4
<h3><verse=Joshua 18:4>Joshua 18:4</verse></h3>



Give out from among you three men for [each] tribe: and I will send them, and they shall rise, and
go through the land, and describe it according to (c) the inheritance of them; and they shall come
[again] to me.



(c) That is, into seven portions, one to every tribe.
#BCV:Joshua 18:5
<h3><verse=Joshua 18:5>Joshua 18:5</verse></h3>



And they shall divide it into seven parts: Judah shall abide in their coast on the south, and the house
of Joseph shall (d) abide in their coasts on the north.



(d) For these had their inheritance already appointed.
#BCV:Joshua 18:6
<h3><verse=Joshua 18:6>Joshua 18:6</verse></h3>



Ye shall therefore describe the land [into] seven parts, and bring [the description] hither to me, that I
may cast lots for you here before the (e) LORD our God.



(e) Before the ark of the Lord.
#BCV:Joshua 18:7
<h3><verse=Joshua 18:7>Joshua 18:7</verse></h3>



But the Levites have no part among you; for the (f) priesthood of the LORD [is] their inheritance:
and Gad, and Reuben, and half the tribe of Manasseh, have received their inheritance beyond
Jordan on the east, which Moses the servant of the LORD gave them.

<page=492>(f) That is, the sacrifices and offerings, (Jos 13:14).
#BCV:Joshua 18:8
<h3><verse=Joshua 18:8>Joshua 18:8</verse></h3>



And the men arose, and went away: and Joshua charged them that went to (g) describe the land,
saying, Go and walk through the land, and describe it, and come again to me, that I may here cast
lots for you before the LORD in Shiloh.



(g) By writing the names of every country and city.
#BCV:Joshua 18:10
<h3><verse=Joshua 18:10>Joshua 18:10</verse></h3>



And Joshua (h) cast lots for them in Shiloh before the LORD: and there Joshua divided the land
unto the children of Israel according to their divisions.



(h) That everyone should be content with God's appointment.
#BCV:Joshua 18:11
<h3><verse=Joshua 18:11>Joshua 18:11</verse></h3>



And the lot of the tribe of the children of Benjamin came up according to their families: and the
coast of their lot came forth (i) between the children of Judah and the children of Joseph.



(i) Their inheritance bordered on Judah and Joseph.
#BCV:Joshua 18:13
<h3><verse=Joshua 18:13>Joshua 18:13</verse></h3>



And the border went over from thence toward Luz, to the side of Luz, which [is] (k) Bethel,
southward; and the border descended to Atarothadar, near the hill that [lieth] on the south side of
the nether Bethhoron.



(k) Which was in the tribe of Ephraim: another Bethel was in the tribe of Benjamin.
#BCV:Joshua 18:17
<h3><verse=Joshua 18:17>Joshua 18:17</verse></h3>



And was drawn from the north, and went forth to (l) Enshemesh, and went forth toward Geliloth,
which [is] over against the going up of Adummim, and descended to the stone of Bohan the son of
Reuben,



(l) Which is in the tribe of Ephraim.
#BCV:Joshua 18:19
<h3><verse=Joshua 18:19>Joshua 18:19</verse></h3>

<page=493>And the border passed along to the side of Bethhoglah northward: and the outgoings of the border
were at the north bay of the salt sea at the south (m) end of Jordan: this [was] the south coast.



(m) To the very straight, where the river runs into the Salt sea.
#BCV:Joshua 18:28
<h3><verse=Joshua 18:28>Joshua 18:28</verse></h3>



And Zelah, Eleph, and Jebusi, which [is] (n) Jerusalem, Gibeath, [and] Kirjath; fourteen cities with
their villages. This [is] the inheritance of the children of Benjamin according to their families.



(n) Which was not completely in the tribe of Benjamin, but part of it was also in the tribe of Judah.

<h2>Joshua 19</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 19:1
<h3><verse=Joshua 19:1>Joshua 19:1</verse></h3>

<page=494>And the second lot came forth to Simeon, [even] for the tribe of the children of Simeon according
to their families: and their inheritance was (a) within the inheritance of the children of Judah.



(a) According to Jacob's prophecy that he would be scattered among the other tribes.
#BCV:Joshua 19:9
<h3><verse=Joshua 19:9>Joshua 19:9</verse></h3>



Out of the portion of the children of Judah [was] the inheritance of the children of Simeon: for the
part of the children of Judah was too (b) much for them: therefore the children of Simeon had their
inheritance within the inheritance of them.



(b) But this large portion was given them by God's providence to declare their increase in time to
come.
#BCV:Joshua 19:11
<h3><verse=Joshua 19:11>Joshua 19:11</verse></h3>



And their border went up (c) toward the sea, and Maralah, and reached to Dabbasheth, and reached
to the river that [is] before Jokneam;



(c) Or, westward, toward the great sea.
#BCV:Joshua 19:15
<h3><verse=Joshua 19:15>Joshua 19:15</verse></h3>



And Kattath, and Nahallal, and Shimron, and Idalah, and (d) Bethlehem: twelve cities with their
villages.



(d) There was another Bethlehem in the tribe of Judah.
#BCV:Joshua 19:21
<h3><verse=Joshua 19:21>Joshua 19:21</verse></h3>



And Remeth, and (e) Engannim, and Enhaddah, and Bethpazzez;



(e) There was another city of this name in the tribe of Judah: for in various tribes certain cities had
the same name, and were distinguished by the tribe only.
#BCV:Joshua 19:27
<h3><verse=Joshua 19:27>Joshua 19:27</verse></h3>



And turneth toward the sunrising to Bethdagon, and reacheth to (f) Zebulun, and to the valley of
Jiphthahel toward the north side of Bethemek, and Neiel, and goeth out to Cabul on the left hand,

<page=495>(f) Joins to the tribe of Zebulun, which lay more to the east.
#BCV:Joshua 19:29
<h3><verse=Joshua 19:29>Joshua 19:29</verse></h3>



And [then] the coast turneth to Ramah, and to the strong city (g) Tyre; and the coast turneth to
Hosah; and the outgoings thereof are at the sea from the coast to Achzib:



(g) Which was Zoar, a strong city at the sea.
#BCV:Joshua 19:33
<h3><verse=Joshua 19:33>Joshua 19:33</verse></h3>



And their coast was from (h) Heleph, from Allon to Zaanannim, and Adami, Nekeb, and Jabneel,
unto Lakum; and the outgoings thereof were at Jordan:



(h) These cities were in the country of Zaanannim.
#BCV:Joshua 19:35
<h3><verse=Joshua 19:35>Joshua 19:35</verse></h3>



And the fenced cities [are] Ziddim, Zer, and Hammath, Rakkath, and (i) Chinnereth,



(i) Of which the lake of Gennesaret had its name.
#BCV:Joshua 19:46
<h3><verse=Joshua 19:46>Joshua 19:46</verse></h3>



And Mejarkon, and Rakkon, with the border before (k) Japho.



(k) Called Joppa.
#BCV:Joshua 19:47
<h3><verse=Joshua 19:47>Joshua 19:47</verse></h3>



And the coast of the children of Dan went out [too little] for them: therefore the children of Dan
went up to (l) fight against Leshem, and took it, and smote it with the edge of the sword, and
possessed it, and dwelt therein, and called Leshem, Dan, after the name of Dan their father.



(l) According as Jacob had prophesied in (<bcv=Gen 49:17>Gen 49:17</bcv>).

<h2>Joshua 20</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 20:3
<h3><verse=Joshua 20:3>Joshua 20:3</verse></h3>

<page=496>That the slayer that killeth [any] person (a) unawares [and] unwittingly may flee thither: and they
shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood.



(a) At unawares and bearing him no grudge.
#BCV:Joshua 20:5
<h3><verse=Joshua 20:5>Joshua 20:5</verse></h3>



And if the (b) avenger of blood pursue after him, then they shall not deliver the slayer up into his
hand; because he smote his neighbour unwittingly, and hated him not beforetime.



(b) That is, the nearest kinsman of him that is slain.
#BCV:Joshua 20:6
<h3><verse=Joshua 20:6>Joshua 20:6</verse></h3>



And he shall dwell in that city, until he stand before the congregation for (c) judgment, [and] until
the death of the high priest that shall be in those days: then shall the slayer return, and come unto
his own city, and unto his own house, unto the city from whence he fled.



(c) Till his cause was proved.
#BCV:Joshua 20:8
<h3><verse=Joshua 20:8>Joshua 20:8</verse></h3>



And on the other side Jordan by Jericho eastward, they assigned Bezer in the wilderness upon the
plain out of the tribe of Reuben, and Ramoth in Gilead out of the tribe of Gad, and Golan in
Bashan out of the (d) tribe of Manasseh.



(d) Out of the half tribe of Manasseh beyond the Jordan.
#BCV:Joshua 20:9
<h3><verse=Joshua 20:9>Joshua 20:9</verse></h3>



These were the cities appointed for all the children of Israel, and for the stranger that sojourneth
among them, that whosoever killeth [any] person at unawares might flee thither, and not die by the
hand of the avenger of blood, until he stood before the (e) congregation.



(e) Before the Judges.

<h2>Joshua 21</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 21:2
<h3><verse=Joshua 21:2>Joshua 21:2</verse></h3>

<page=497>And they spake unto them at Shiloh in the land of Canaan, saying, The LORD commanded (a) by
the hand of Moses to give us cities to dwell in, with the suburbs thereof for our cattle.



(a) By Moses, by whose ministry God showed his power.
#BCV:Joshua 21:4
<h3><verse=Joshua 21:4>Joshua 21:4</verse></h3>



And the lot came out for the families of the (b) Kohathites: and the children of Aaron the priest,
[which were] of the Levites, had by lot out of the tribe of Judah, and out of the tribe of Simeon,
and out of the tribe of Benjamin, (c) thirteen cities.



(b) He means those that were priests: for some were but Levites.



(c) Every tribe gave more or fewer cities according to the size of their inheritance, (<bcv=Num 35:8>Num 35:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 21:10
<h3><verse=Joshua 21:10>Joshua 21:10</verse></h3>



Which the children of (d) Aaron, [being] of the families of the Kohathites, [who were] of the
children of Levi, had: for theirs was the first lot.



(d) For Aaron came from Kohath, and therefore the priests office remained in that family.
#BCV:Joshua 21:13
<h3><verse=Joshua 21:13>Joshua 21:13</verse></h3>



Thus they gave to the (e) children of Aaron the priest Hebron with her suburbs, [to be] a city of
refuge for the slayer; and Libnah with her suburbs,



(e) That is, the priest of the family of the Kohathites, of whom Aaron was chief.
#BCV:Joshua 21:17
<h3><verse=Joshua 21:17>Joshua 21:17</verse></h3>



And out of the tribe of Benjamin, Gibeon with her (f) suburbs, Geba with her suburbs,



(f) The suburbs were a thousand cubits from the wall of the cities round about, (<bcv=Num 35:4>Num 35:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 21:20
<h3><verse=Joshua 21:20>Joshua 21:20</verse></h3>



And the families of the children of Kohath, (g) the Levites which remained of the children of
Kohath, even they had the cities of their lot out of the tribe of Ephraim.



(g) That were not priests.
#BCV:Joshua 21:21
<h3><verse=Joshua 21:21>Joshua 21:21</verse></h3>

<page=498>For they gave them (h) Shechem with her suburbs in mount Ephraim, [to be] a city of refuge for the
slayer; and Gezer with her suburbs,



(h) Hebron and Shechem were the two cities of refuge under the Kohathites.
#BCV:Joshua 21:25
<h3><verse=Joshua 21:25>Joshua 21:25</verse></h3>



And out of the (i) half tribe of Manasseh, Tanach with her suburbs, and Gathrimmon with her
suburbs; two cities.



(i) Who dwelt in Canaan.
#BCV:Joshua 21:27
<h3><verse=Joshua 21:27>Joshua 21:27</verse></h3>



And unto the children of Gershon, of the families of the Levites, out of the [other] half tribe of
Manasseh [they gave] (k) Golan in Bashan with her suburbs, [to be] a city of refuge for the slayer;
and Beeshterah with her suburbs; two cities.



(k) Golan and Kedesh were the cities of refuge under the Gershonites.
#BCV:Joshua 21:34
<h3><verse=Joshua 21:34>Joshua 21:34</verse></h3>



And unto the families of the children of Merari, the (l) rest of the Levites, out of the tribe of
Zebulun, Jokneam with her suburbs, and Kartah with her suburbs,



(l) They are here called the rest, because they are last numbered, and Merari was the younger brother,



(<bcv=Gen 46:11>Gen 46:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 21:36
<h3><verse=Joshua 21:36>Joshua 21:36</verse></h3>



And out of the tribe of Reuben, (m) Bezer with her suburbs, and Jahazah with her suburbs,



(m) Bezer and Ramoch were the cities of refuge under the Merarites and beyond Jordan, (<bcv=Jos 20:8>Jos 20:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 21:41
<h3><verse=Joshua 21:41>Joshua 21:41</verse></h3>



All the cities of the Levites (n) within the possession of the children of Israel [were] forty and eight
cities with their suburbs.



(n) Thus according to Jacob's prophecy they were scattered throughout the country, which God used
so that his people might be instructed in the true religion by them.

<h2>Joshua 22</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 22:1
<h3><verse=Joshua 22:1>Joshua 22:1</verse></h3>

<page=499>Then (a) Joshua called the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh,



(a) After that the Israelites enjoyed the land of Canaan.
#BCV:Joshua 22:2
<h3><verse=Joshua 22:2>Joshua 22:2</verse></h3>



And said unto them, Ye have kept all that Moses the servant of the LORD (b) commanded you, and
have obeyed my voice in all that I commanded you:



(b) Which was to go armed before their brethren, (<bcv=Num 32:29>Num 32:29</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 22:5
<h3><verse=Joshua 22:5>Joshua 22:5</verse></h3>



But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the LORD
charged you, to (c) love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his
commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.



(c) He shows where fulfilling the Law consists.
#BCV:Joshua 22:6
<h3><verse=Joshua 22:6>Joshua 22:6</verse></h3>



So Joshua (d) blessed them, and sent them away: and they went unto their tents.



(d) He commended them to God, and prayed for them.
#BCV:Joshua 22:8
<h3><verse=Joshua 22:8>Joshua 22:8</verse></h3>



And he spake unto them, saying, Return with much riches unto your tents, and with very much cattle,
with silver, and with gold, and with brass, and with iron, and with very much raiment: divide the
spoil of your enemies with your (e) brethren.



(e) Who remained at home and did not go to the war, (<bcv=Num 31:27>Num 31:27</bcv>; <bcv=1Sam 30:24>Sa1 30:24</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 22:10
<h3><verse=Joshua 22:10>Joshua 22:10</verse></h3>



And when they came unto the borders of Jordan, that [are] in the land of Canaan, the children of
Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh built (f) there an altar by Jordan, a
great altar to see to.

<page=500>(f) That is, beyond Jordan: for sometime the whole country on both sides of Jordan is referred to as
Canaan.
#BCV:Joshua 22:12
<h3><verse=Joshua 22:12>Joshua 22:12</verse></h3>



And when the children of Israel heard [of it], the whole congregation of the children of Israel
gathered themselves together at Shiloh, to go up (g) to war against them.



(g) Such was their zeal, that they would rather lose their lives, that allow the true religion to be
changed or corrupted.
#BCV:Joshua 22:16
<h3><verse=Joshua 22:16>Joshua 22:16</verse></h3>



Thus saith (h) the whole congregation of the LORD, What trespass [is] this that ye have committed
against the God of Israel, to turn away this day from following the LORD, in that ye have builded
you an altar, that ye might rebel this day against the LORD?



(h) Not only of the princes, but also of the common people.
#BCV:Joshua 22:17
<h3><verse=Joshua 22:17>Joshua 22:17</verse></h3>



[Is] the iniquity of Peor too little for us, from which we are not (l) cleansed until this day, although
there was a plague in the congregation of the LORD,



(l) Meaning, God is not fully pacified, in that no punishment can be sufficient for such wickedness
and idolatry.
#BCV:Joshua 22:19
<h3><verse=Joshua 22:19>Joshua 22:19</verse></h3>



Notwithstanding, if the land of your possession [be] (k) unclean, [then] pass ye over unto the land
of the possession of the LORD, wherein the LORD'S tabernacle dwelleth, and take possession
among us: but (l) rebel not against the LORD, nor rebel against us, in building you an altar beside
the altar of the LORD our God.



(k) In your judgment.



(l) To use any other service than God has appointed is to rebel against God, (<bcv=I Sa 15:23>Sa1 15:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 22:20
<h3><verse=Joshua 22:20>Joshua 22:20</verse></h3>



Did not Achan the son of Zerah commit a trespass in the accursed thing, and wrath fell on all the
congregation of Israel? and that man (m) perished not alone in his iniquity.



(m) Signifying, that if many suffered for one man's sin, for the fault of many, all should suffer.
#BCV:Joshua 22:23
<h3><verse=Joshua 22:23>Joshua 22:23</verse></h3>

<page=501>That we have built us an altar to turn from following the LORD, or if to offer thereon burnt
offering or meat offering, or if to offer peace offerings thereon, let the LORD (n) himself require
[it];



(n) Let him punish us.
#BCV:Joshua 22:25
<h3><verse=Joshua 22:25>Joshua 22:25</verse></h3>



For the LORD hath made Jordan a border between us and you, ye children of Reuben and children
of Gad; ye have no part in the LORD: so shall your children make our children (o) cease from
fearing the LORD.



(o) Or, to turn back from the true God.
#BCV:Joshua 22:28
<h3><verse=Joshua 22:28>Joshua 22:28</verse></h3>



Therefore said we, that it shall be, when they should [so] say to us or to our (p) generations in time
to come, that we may say [again], Behold the pattern of the altar of the LORD, which our fathers
made, not for burnt offerings, nor for sacrifices; but it [is] a witness between us and you.



(p) They signify a wonderful care that they bore toward their posterity, that they might live in the
true service of God.
#BCV:Joshua 22:31
<h3><verse=Joshua 22:31>Joshua 22:31</verse></h3>



And Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest said unto the children of Reuben, and to the children of
Gad, and to the children of Manasseh, This day we perceive that the LORD [is] (q) among us,
because ye have not committed this trespass against the LORD: now ye have (r) delivered the
children of Israel out of the hand of the LORD.



(q) By preserving and governing us.



(r) Whom if ye had offended; he would have punished with you.

<h2>Joshua 23</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 23:3
<h3><verse=Joshua 23:3>Joshua 23:3</verse></h3>

<page=502>And ye have seen all that the LORD your God hath done unto all these nations (a) because of you;
for the LORD your God [is] he that hath fought for you.



(a) Your eyes bearing witness.
#BCV:Joshua 23:5
<h3><verse=Joshua 23:5>Joshua 23:5</verse></h3>



And the LORD your God, he shall expel (b) them from before you, and drive them from out of
your sight; and ye shall possess their land, as the LORD your God hath promised unto you.



(b) Which yet remain and are not overcome, as in (<bcv=Jos 13:2>Jos 13:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 23:7
<h3><verse=Joshua 23:7>Joshua 23:7</verse></h3>



That ye come not among these nations, these that (c) remain among you; neither make mention of
the name of their gods, (d) nor cause to swear [by them], neither serve them, nor bow yourselves
unto them:



(c) And not yet subdued.



(d) Let not the judges admit an oath which any shall swear by their idols.
#BCV:Joshua 23:13
<h3><verse=Joshua 23:13>Joshua 23:13</verse></h3>



Know for a certainty that the LORD your God will no more drive out [any of] these nations from
before you; but they shall be snares and traps unto you, and scourges in your sides, and thorns in
your (e) eyes, until ye perish from off this good land which the LORD your God hath given you.



(e) Meaning, they will be a continual grief to you, and so the cause of your destruction.
#BCV:Joshua 23:14
<h3><verse=Joshua 23:14>Joshua 23:14</verse></h3>



And, behold, this day I [am] (f) going the way of all the earth: and ye know in all your (g) hearts and
in all your souls, that not one thing hath failed of all the good things which the LORD your God
spake concerning you; all are come to pass unto you, [and] not one thing hath failed thereof.



(f) I die according to the course of nature.



(g) Most certainly.
#BCV:Joshua 23:16
<h3><verse=Joshua 23:16>Joshua 23:16</verse></h3>

#BCV:jos 23:16
<h3><verse=jos 23:16>jos 23:16</verse></h3>



and have gone and served other gods, and bowed yourselves to them; then shall the anger of the
LORD be kindled against you, and ye shall perish quickly from off the good land which he hath
given unto you.



(h) He shows that no evil can come to man, except he offend God by disobedience.

<h2>Joshua 24</h2>

#BCV:Joshua 24:1
<h3><verse=Joshua 24:1>Joshua 24:1</verse></h3>

<page=504>And Joshua gathered all the (a) tribes of Israel to Shechem, and called for the elders of Israel, and
for their heads, and for their judges, and for their officers; and they presented themselves before (b)
God.



(a) That is, the nine tribes and the half.



(b) Before the ark which was brought to Shechem, when they went to bury Joseph's bones.
#BCV:Joshua 24:2
<h3><verse=Joshua 24:2>Joshua 24:2</verse></h3>



And Joshua said unto all the people, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Your fathers dwelt on the
other side of the (c) flood in old time, [even] Terah, the father of Abraham, and the father of
Nachor: and they served other gods.



(c) Euphrates in Mesopotamia, (<bcv=Gen 11:26>Gen 11:26</bcv>).
#BCV:Joshua 24:7
<h3><verse=Joshua 24:7>Joshua 24:7</verse></h3>



And when they cried unto the LORD, he put darkness between you and the Egyptians, and brought
the sea upon them, and covered them; and your eyes have seen what I have done in Egypt: and ye
dwelt in the wilderness a (d) long season.



(d) Even forty years.
#BCV:Joshua 24:11
<h3><verse=Joshua 24:11>Joshua 24:11</verse></h3>



And ye went over Jordan, and came unto Jericho: and the (e) men of Jericho fought against you, the
Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Girgashites, the Hivites,
and the Jebusites; and I delivered them into your hand.



(e) Because it was the chief city, under it he contains all the country: else they of the city fought not.
#BCV:Joshua 24:14
<h3><verse=Joshua 24:14>Joshua 24:14</verse></h3>



Now therefore (f) fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods
which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD.



(f) This is the true use of God's benefits, to learn by it to fear and serve him with an upright
conscience.
#BCV:Joshua 24:15
<h3><verse=Joshua 24:15>Joshua 24:15</verse></h3>

#BCV:jos 24:15
<h3><verse=jos 24:15>jos 24:15</verse></h3>



the gods which your fathers served that [were] on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the
Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: (g) but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.



(g) This teaches us that if all the world would go from God, yet every one of us particularly is
bound to cleave to him.
#BCV:Joshua 24:18
<h3><verse=Joshua 24:18>Joshua 24:18</verse></h3>



And the LORD drave out from before us all the people, even the Amorites which dwelt in the land:
[therefore] will we also serve the LORD; (h) for he [is] our God.



(h) How much more are we bound to serve God in Christ, by whom we have received the
redemption of our souls.
#BCV:Joshua 24:22
<h3><verse=Joshua 24:22>Joshua 24:22</verse></h3>



And Joshua said unto the people, Ye [are] witnesses (i) against yourselves that ye have chosen you
the LORD, to serve him. And they said, [We are] witnesses.



(i) If you do the contrary, your own mouths will condemn you.
#BCV:Joshua 24:23
<h3><verse=Joshua 24:23>Joshua 24:23</verse></h3>



Now therefore put away, [said he], the strange (k) gods which [are] among you, and incline your
heart unto the LORD God of Israel.



(k) Out of your hearts and otherwise.
#BCV:Joshua 24:25
<h3><verse=Joshua 24:25>Joshua 24:25</verse></h3>



So Joshua (l) made a covenant with the people that day, and set them a statute and an ordinance in
Shechem.



(l) By joining God and the people together: also he repeated the promises and threatenings out of
the Law.
#BCV:Joshua 24:27
<h3><verse=Joshua 24:27>Joshua 24:27</verse></h3>



And Joshua said unto all the people, Behold, this stone shall be a witness unto us; for it (m) hath
heard all the words of the LORD which he spake unto us: it shall be therefore a witness unto you,
lest ye deny your God.

<page=506>(m) So that man's deception should not go unpunished, the dumb creatures will cry for vengeance.
#BCV:Joshua 24:31
<h3><verse=Joshua 24:31>Joshua 24:31</verse></h3>



And Israel (n) served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders that overlived
Joshua, and which had known all the works of the LORD, that he had done for Israel.



(n) Such are the people commonly as their rulers are.

<h1>Judges</h1>


<h2>Judges 1</h2>

#BCV:Judges 1:1
<h3><verse=Judges 1:1>Judges 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=507>Now after the death of Joshua it came to pass, that the children of Israel (a) asked the LORD,
saying, (b) Who shall go up for us against the Canaanites first, to fight against them?



(a) By the judgment of Urim; Read (<bcv=Exo 28:30>Exo 28:30</bcv>;<bcv=Num 27:21> Num 27:21</bcv>; <bcv=1Sam 28:6>Sa1 28:6</bcv>)



(b) Who shall be our captain?
#BCV:Judges 1:3
<h3><verse=Judges 1:3>Judges 1:3</verse></h3>



And Judah said unto Simeon his (c) brother, Come up with me into my lot, that we may fight against
the Canaanites; and I likewise will go with thee into thy lot. So Simeon went with him.



(c) For the tribe of Simeon had their inheritance within the tribe of Judah, (<bcv=Jos 19:1>Jos 19:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Judges 1:6
<h3><verse=Judges 1:6>Judges 1:6</verse></h3>



But Adonibezek fled; and they pursued after him, and caught him, and (d) cut off his thumbs and
his great toes.



(d) This was God's just judgment, as the tyrant himself confesses, that as he had done, so did he
receive, (<bcv=Lev 24:19-20>Lev 24:19-20</bcv>).
#BCV:Judges 1:8
<h3><verse=Judges 1:8>Judges 1:8</verse></h3>



Now the children of Judah had fought against Jerusalem, and had taken it, and smitten it with the
edge of the sword, and set the (e) city on fire.



(e) Which was later built again, and possessed by the Jebusites, (<bcv=II Sa 5:6>Sa2 5:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Judges 1:10
<h3><verse=Judges 1:10>Judges 1:10</verse></h3>



And Judah went against the Canaanites that dwelt in Hebron: (now the name of Hebron before [was]
Kirjatharba:) and they slew (f) Sheshai, and Ahiman, and Talmai.



(f) These three were giants, and the children of Anak.
#BCV:Judges 1:14
<h3><verse=Judges 1:14>Judges 1:14</verse></h3>

<page=508>And it came to pass, when she came [to him], that she moved him to ask of her father a field: (g)
and she lighted from off [her] ass; and Caleb said unto her, What wilt thou?



(g) Read (<bcv=Jos 15:18>Jos 15:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Judges 1:16
<h3><verse=Judges 1:16>Judges 1:16</verse></h3>



And the children of the (h) Kenite, Moses' father in law, went up out of the city of palm trees with
the children of Judah into the wilderness of Judah, which [lieth] in the south of Arad; and they went
and dwelt among the people.



(h) This was one of the names of Moses father in law, read (<bcv=Num 10:29>Num 10:29</bcv>).
#BCV:Judges 1:18
<h3><verse=Judges 1:18>Judges 1:18</verse></h3>



Also Judah took (i) Gaza with the coast thereof, and Askelon with the coast thereof, and Ekron with
the coast thereof.



(i) These cities and others were later possessed by the Philistines, (<bcv=I Sa 6:17>Sa1 6:17</bcv>).
#BCV:Judges 1:21
<h3><verse=Judges 1:21>Judges 1:21</verse></h3>



And the children of Benjamin did not drive out the Jebusites that (k) inhabited Jerusalem; but the
Jebusites dwell with the children of Benjamin in Jerusalem unto this day.



(k) For after the tribe of Judah had burnt it, they built it again.
#BCV:Judges 1:27
<h3><verse=Judges 1:27>Judges 1:27</verse></h3>



Neither did Manasseh drive out [the inhabitants of] Bethshean and her towns, nor Taanach and her
towns, nor the inhabitants of Dor and her towns, nor the inhabitants of Ibleam and her towns, nor
the inhabitants of Megiddo and her towns: (l) but the Canaanites would dwell in that land.



(l) Wherefore God permitted the Canaanites to still dwell in the land, read <bcv=Jdg 3:5>(Jdg 3:5).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 1:30
<h3><verse=Judges 1:30>Judges 1:30</verse></h3>

Neither did (m) Zebulun drive out the inhabitants of Kitron, nor the inhabitants of Nahalol; but the
Canaanites dwelt among them, and became tributaries.



(m) That is, the tribe of Zebulun as is also to be understood of the rest.
#BCV:Judges 1:32
<h3><verse=Judges 1:32>Judges 1:32</verse></h3>

<page=509>But the Asherites dwelt among the Canaanites, the inhabitants of the land: for they did not drive
them (n) out.



(n) But made them pay tribute as the others did.
#BCV:Judges 1:35
<h3><verse=Judges 1:35>Judges 1:35</verse></h3>



But the Amorites would dwell in mount Heres in Aijalon, and in Shaalbim: yet the (o) hand of the
house of Joseph prevailed, so that they became tributaries.



(o) Meaning, when he was stronger than they.
#BCV:Judges 1:36
<h3><verse=Judges 1:36>Judges 1:36</verse></h3>



And the coast of the Amorites [was] from the going up to Akrabbim, from the (p) rock, and upward.



(p) Or Selah, which was a city in Arabia.

<h2>Judges 2</h2>

#BCV:Judges 2:1
<h3><verse=Judges 2:1>Judges 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=510>And an (a) angel of the LORD came up from Gilgal to Bochim, and said, I made you to go up out
of Egypt, and have brought you unto the land which I sware unto your fathers; and I said, I will
never break my covenant with you.



(a) That is, messenger, or prophet, as some think, Phinehas.
#BCV:Judges 2:6
<h3><verse=Judges 2:6>Judges 2:6</verse></h3>



And when Joshua had (b) let the people go, the children of Israel went every man unto his
inheritance to possess the land.



(b) After that he had divided to every man his portion by lot, (<bcv=Jos 24:28>Jos 24:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Judges 2:7
<h3><verse=Judges 2:7>Judges 2:7</verse></h3>



And the people served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders that outlived
Joshua, who had seen all the great (c) works of the LORD, that he did for Israel.



(c) Meaning, the wonders and miracles.
#BCV:Judges 2:9
<h3><verse=Judges 2:9>Judges 2:9</verse></h3>



And they buried him in the border of his inheritance in (d) Timnathheres, in the mount of Ephraim,
on the north side of the hill Gaash.



(d) Heres, by turning the letters backward is Sereh, as in (<bcv=Jos 24:30>Jos 24:30</bcv>).
#BCV:Judges 2:11
<h3><verse=Judges 2:11>Judges 2:11</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD, and served (e) Baalim:



(e) That is, all manner of idols.
#BCV:Judges 2:13
<h3><verse=Judges 2:13>Judges 2:13</verse></h3>



And they forsook the LORD, and served Baal and (f) Ashtaroth.



(f) These were idols, which had the form of a ewe or sheep among the Sidonians.
#BCV:Judges 2:15
<h3><verse=Judges 2:15>Judges 2:15</verse></h3>


<page=511>(g) Whithersoever they went out, the (h) hand of the LORD was against them for evil, as the LORD
had said, and as the LORD had sworn unto them: and they were greatly distressed.



(g) In all their enterprises.



(h) The vengeance.
#BCV:Judges 2:17
<h3><verse=Judges 2:17>Judges 2:17</verse></h3>



And yet they would not hearken unto their judges, but they went a whoring after other gods, and
bowed themselves unto them: they turned quickly out of the (i) way which their fathers walked in,
obeying the commandments of the LORD; [but] they did not so.



(i) Meaning, from the true religion.
#BCV:Judges 2:18
<h3><verse=Judges 2:18>Judges 2:18</verse></h3>



And when the LORD raised them up judges, then the LORD was with the judge, and delivered
them out of the hand of their enemies all the days of the judge: for it repented the LORD because
of their groanings (k) by reason of them that oppressed them and vexed them.



(k) Seeing their cruelty.
#BCV:Judges 2:21
<h3><verse=Judges 2:21>Judges 2:21</verse></h3>



I also will not henceforth drive out any from before them of the (l) nations which Joshua left when
he died:



(l) As the Hivites, Jebusites, Amorites, etc.
#BCV:Judges 2:22
<h3><verse=Judges 2:22>Judges 2:22</verse></h3>



That through them I may (m) prove Israel, whether they will keep the way of the LORD to walk
therein, as their fathers did keep [it], or not.



(m) So that both outward enemies and false prophets are but a trial to prove our faith, (<bcv=Deu 13:3>Deu 13:3</bcv>; Jdg
3:1).

<h2>Judges 3</h2>

#BCV:Judges 3:1
<h3><verse=Judges 3:1>Judges 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=512>Now these [are] the nations which the LORD left, to prove Israel by them, [even] as many [of Israel]
as had not known all the (a) wars of Canaan;



(a) Which were achieved by the hand of God, and not by the power of man.
#BCV:Judges 3:2
<h3><verse=Judges 3:2>Judges 3:2</verse></h3>



Only that the generations of the children of Israel might know, to teach them war, at the least such
as before knew (b) nothing thereof;



(b) For they trusted in God and he fought for them.
#BCV:Judges 3:6
<h3><verse=Judges 3:6>Judges 3:6</verse></h3>



And they took (c) their daughters to be their wives, and gave their daughters to their sons, and
served their gods.



(c) Contrary to God's commandment, (<bcv=Deu 7:3>Deu 7:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Judges 3:7
<h3><verse=Judges 3:7>Judges 3:7</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD, and forgat the LORD their God, and
served Baalim and the (d) groves.



(d) Or Ashteroth, trees or woods erected for idolatry.
#BCV:Judges 3:10
<h3><verse=Judges 3:10>Judges 3:10</verse></h3>



And the (e) Spirit of the LORD came upon him, and he judged Israel, and went out to war: and the
LORD delivered Chushanrishathaim king of Mesopotamia into his hand; and his hand prevailed
against Chushanrishathaim.



(e) He was stirred up by the Spirit of the Lord.
#BCV:Judges 3:11
<h3><verse=Judges 3:11>Judges 3:11</verse></h3>



And the land had rest (f) forty years. And Othniel the son of Kenaz died.



(f) That is, 32 under Joshua and 8 under Othniel.
#BCV:Judges 3:12
<h3><verse=Judges 3:12>Judges 3:12</verse></h3>



jdg 3:12
And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the LORD: and the LORD (g) strengthened
Eglon the king of Moab against Israel, because they had done evil in the sight of the LORD.



(g) So that the enemies of God's people have no power over them, but by God's appointment.
#BCV:Judges 3:19
<h3><verse=Judges 3:19>Judges 3:19</verse></h3>



But he himself turned again from the (h) quarries that [were] by Gilgal, and said, I have a secret
errand unto thee, O king: who said, Keep (i) silence. And all that stood by him went out from him.



(h) Or, as some read from the places of idols.



(i) Till all be departed.
#BCV:Judges 3:30
<h3><verse=Judges 3:30>Judges 3:30</verse></h3>



So Moab was subdued that day under the hand of Israel. And the (k) land had rest fourscore years.



(k) Meaning, the Israelites.
#BCV:Judges 3:31
<h3><verse=Judges 3:31>Judges 3:31</verse></h3>



And after him was Shamgar the son of Anath, which slew of the Philistines six hundred men with
an ox (l) goad: and he also delivered Israel.



(l) So that it is not the number, nor the means that God regards, when he will get the victory.

<h2>Judges 4</h2>

#BCV:Judges 4:2
<h3><verse=Judges 4:2>Judges 4:2</verse></h3>

<page=514>And the LORD sold them into the hand of (a) Jabin king of Canaan, that reigned in Hazor; the
captain of whose host [was] Sisera, which dwelt in (b) Harosheth of the Gentiles.



(a) There was another Jabin, whom Joshua killed and burnt his city Hazor, (<bcv=Jos 11:13>Jos 11:13</bcv>).



(b) That is in a wood, or strong place,
#BCV:Judges 4:4
<h3><verse=Judges 4:4>Judges 4:4</verse></h3>



And Deborah, a prophetess, the wife of Lapidoth, she (c) judged Israel at that time.



(c) By the spirit of prophesy resolving controversies and declaring the will of God.
#BCV:Judges 4:6
<h3><verse=Judges 4:6>Judges 4:6</verse></h3>



And she sent and called Barak the son of Abinoam out of Kedeshnaphtali, and said unto him, Hath
not the LORD God of Israel (d) commanded, [saying], Go and draw toward mount Tabor, and take
with thee ten thousand men of the children of Naphtali and of the children of Zebulun?



(d) And revealed to me by the spirit of prophecy.
#BCV:Judges 4:8
<h3><verse=Judges 4:8>Judges 4:8</verse></h3>



And Barak said unto her, (e) If thou wilt go with me, then I will go: but if thou wilt not go with me,
[then] I will not go.



(e) Fearing his own weakness and his enemies power, he desires the prophetess to go with him to
assure him of God's will from time to time.
#BCV:Judges 4:11
<h3><verse=Judges 4:11>Judges 4:11</verse></h3>



Now Heber the Kenite, [which was] of the children of Hobab the father in law of Moses, had
severed himself from the Kenites, and pitched his tent (f) unto the plain of Zaanaim, which [is] by
Kedesh.



(f) Meaning, that he possessed a great part of that country.
#BCV:Judges 4:14
<h3><verse=Judges 4:14>Judges 4:14</verse></h3>

<page=515>And Deborah said unto Barak, (g) Up; for this [is] the day in which the LORD hath delivered Sisera
into thine hand: is not the LORD gone out before thee? So Barak went down from mount Tabor,
and ten thousand men after him.



(g) She still encourages him to this enterprise by assuring him of God's favour and aid.
#BCV:Judges 4:17
<h3><verse=Judges 4:17>Judges 4:17</verse></h3>



Howbeit Sisera fled away on his feet to the tent of Jael the wife of (h) Heber the Kenite: for [there
was] peace between Jabin the king of Hazor and the house of Heber the Kenite.



(h) Whose ancestors were strangers, but worshipped the true God, and therefore were joined with
Israel.
#BCV:Judges 4:20
<h3><verse=Judges 4:20>Judges 4:20</verse></h3>



Again he said unto her, Stand in the door of the tent, and it shall be, when any man doth come and
enquire of thee, and say, (i) Is there any man here? that thou shalt say, No.



(i) That is, Sisera.
#BCV:Judges 4:21
<h3><verse=Judges 4:21>Judges 4:21</verse></h3>



Then Jael Heber's wife took a (k) nail of the tent, and took an hammer in her hand, and went softly
unto him, and smote the nail into his temples, and fastened it into the ground: for he was fast asleep
and weary. So he died.



(k) That is, the pin or stake, by which it was fastened to the ground.
#BCV:Judges 4:22
<h3><verse=Judges 4:22>Judges 4:22</verse></h3>



And, behold, as Barak pursued Sisera, Jael came out to meet him, and said unto him, Come, and I
will shew thee the man whom thou seekest. And when he came into her [tent], behold, Sisera lay (l)
dead, and the nail [was] in his temples.



(l) So he saw that a woman had the honour, as Deborah prophesied.

<h2>Judges 5</h2>

#BCV:Judges 5:2
<h3><verse=Judges 5:2>Judges 5:2</verse></h3>

<page=516>Praise ye the LORD for the avenging of Israel, when the (a) people willingly offered themselves.


(a) That is, the two tribes of Zebulun and Naphtali.
#BCV:Judges 5:6
<h3><verse=Judges 5:6>Judges 5:6</verse></h3>



In the days of Shamgar the son of Anath, in the days of Jael, the highways were (b) unoccupied, and
the travellers walked through byways.



(b) For fear of the enemies.
#BCV:Judges 5:7
<h3><verse=Judges 5:7>Judges 5:7</verse></h3>



[The inhabitants of] the villages ceased, they ceased in Israel, until that I Deborah arose, that I arose
a (c) mother in Israel.



(c) Miraculously stirred up by God to pity them and deliver them.
#BCV:Judges 5:8
<h3><verse=Judges 5:8>Judges 5:8</verse></h3>



They chose new gods; then [was] war in the gates: was there a (d) shield or spear seen among forty
thousand in Israel?



(d) They had no heart to resist their enemies.
#BCV:Judges 5:10
<h3><verse=Judges 5:10>Judges 5:10</verse></h3>



Speak, ye that ride on (e) white asses, ye that sit (f) in judgment, and walk by the way.



(e) You governors.



(f) Or by Middin, as in danger of your enemies.
#BCV:Judges 5:12
<h3><verse=Judges 5:12>Judges 5:12</verse></h3>



Awake, awake, Deborah: awake, awake, utter a song: arise, Barak, and lead (h) thy captivity captive,
thou son of Abinoam.



(h) That is, they who kept your people in captivity.
#BCV:Judges 5:14
<h3><verse=Judges 5:14>Judges 5:14</verse></h3>



jdg 5:14
Out of Ephraim (i) [was there] a root of them against Amalek; after thee, Benjamin, among thy
people; out of Machir came down governors, and out of Zebulun they that handle the pen of the
writer.



(i) Joshua first fought against Amalek, and Saul destroyed him.
#BCV:Judges 5:15
<h3><verse=Judges 5:15>Judges 5:15</verse></h3>



And the princes of Issachar [were] with Deborah; even (l) Issachar, and also Barak: he was sent on
foot into the valley. For the divisions of Reuben [there were] great (m) thoughts of heart.



(l) Even the whole tribe.



(m) They marvelled that they did not cross the Jordan to help them.
#BCV:Judges 5:17
<h3><verse=Judges 5:17>Judges 5:17</verse></h3>




(n) Gilead abode beyond Jordan: and why did Dan remain in ships? Asher continued on the sea
shore, and abode in his (o) breaches.



(n) She reproves all those who did not come to help their brethren in their time of need.



(o) Either by hearing of the sea, or by mining,
#BCV:Judges 5:19
<h3><verse=Judges 5:19>Judges 5:19</verse></h3>



The kings came [and] fought, then fought the kings of Canaan in Taanach by the waters of Megiddo;
they took no gain of (p) money.



(p) They won nothing, but lost all.
#BCV:Judges 5:21
<h3><verse=Judges 5:21>Judges 5:21</verse></h3>



The river of Kishon (q) swept them away, that ancient river, the river Kishon. O my soul, thou hast
trodden down strength.



(q) As a broom does to the filth of the house.
#BCV:Judges 5:23
<h3><verse=Judges 5:23>Judges 5:23</verse></h3>



Curse ye (r) Meroz, said the angel of the LORD, curse ye bitterly the inhabitants thereof; because
they came not to the help of the LORD, to the help of the LORD against the mighty.



(r) It was a city near Tabor, where they fought.
#BCV:Judges 5:25
<h3><verse=Judges 5:25>Judges 5:25</verse></h3>

<page=518>He asked water, [and] she gave [him] milk; she brought forth (s) butter in a lordly dish.


(s) Some read churned milk in a great cup.
#BCV:Judges 5:29
<h3><verse=Judges 5:29>Judges 5:29</verse></h3>



Her wise ladies answered her, yea, (t) she returned answer to herself,



(t) That is, she comforted herself.
#BCV:Judges 5:30
<h3><verse=Judges 5:30>Judges 5:30</verse></h3>



Have they not sped? have they [not] divided the prey; to every man a damsel [or] two; to Sisera a
prey of divers colours, a prey of divers colours of needlework, of divers colours of needlework on
both sides, [meet] (u) for the necks of [them that take] the spoil?



(u) Because he was chief of the army.
#BCV:Judges 5:31
<h3><verse=Judges 5:31>Judges 5:31</verse></h3>



So let all thine enemies perish, O LORD: but [let] them that love him [be] as the (x) sun when he
goeth forth in his might. And the land had rest forty years.



(x) Shall grow daily more and more in God's favour.

<h2>Judges 6</h2>

#BCV:Judges 6:2
<h3><verse=Judges 6:2>Judges 6:2</verse></h3>

<page=519>And the hand of Midian prevailed against Israel: (a) [and] because of the Midianites the children of
Israel made them the dens which [are] in the mountains, and caves, and strong holds.



(a) For fear of the Midianites, they fled into the dens of the mountains.
#BCV:Judges 6:4
<h3><verse=Judges 6:4>Judges 6:4</verse></h3>



And they encamped against them, and destroyed the increase of the earth, till thou come unto (b)
Gaza, and left no sustenance for Israel, neither sheep, nor ox, nor ass.



(b) Even almost the whole country.
#BCV:Judges 6:6
<h3><verse=Judges 6:6>Judges 6:6</verse></h3>



And Israel was greatly impoverished because of the Midianites; and the (c) children of Israel cried
unto the LORD.



(c) This is the purpose of God's punishments, to call his to repentance, that they may seek help
from him.
#BCV:Judges 6:13
<h3><verse=Judges 6:13>Judges 6:13</verse></h3>



And Gideon said unto him, (d) Oh my Lord, if the LORD be with us, why then is all this befallen us?
and where [be] all his miracles which our fathers told us of, saying, Did not the LORD bring us up
from Egypt? but now the LORD hath forsaken us, and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites.



(d) This came not from distrust, but from weakness of faith, which is in the most perfect: for no
man in this life can have a perfect faith: yet the children of God have a true faith, by which they are
justified.
#BCV:Judges 6:14
<h3><verse=Judges 6:14>Judges 6:14</verse></h3>



And the (e) LORD looked upon him, and said, Go in this thy (f) might, and thou shalt save Israel
from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee?



(e) That is, Christ appearing in visible form.



(f) Which I have given to you.
#BCV:Judges 6:17
<h3><verse=Judges 6:17>Judges 6:17</verse></h3>

<page=520>And he said unto him, If now I have found grace in thy sight, then shew me (g) a sign that thou
talkest with me.



(g) So that we see how the flesh is the enemy of God's calling, which cannot be persuaded without
signs.
#BCV:Judges 6:19
<h3><verse=Judges 6:19>Judges 6:19</verse></h3>



And Gideon went in, and made ready a kid, and unleavened cakes of an (h) ephah of flour: the flesh
he put in a basket, and he put the broth in a pot, and brought [it] out unto him under the oak, and
presented [it].



(h) Of Ephah, read (<bcv=Exo 16:36>Exo 16:36</bcv>).
#BCV:Judges 6:21
<h3><verse=Judges 6:21>Judges 6:21</verse></h3>



Then the angel of the LORD put forth the end of the staff that [was] in his hand, and touched the
flesh and the unleavened cakes; and there rose up fire (i) out of the rock, and consumed the flesh
and the unleavened cakes. Then the angel of the LORD departed out of his sight.



(i) By the power of God only, as in the sacrifice of Elijah, (<bcv=I Ki 18:38>Kg1 18:38</bcv>).
#BCV:Judges 6:25
<h3><verse=Judges 6:25>Judges 6:25</verse></h3>



And it came to pass the same night, that the LORD said unto him, Take thy father's young bullock,
even the second bullock (k) of seven years old, and throw down the altar of Baal that thy father hath,
and cut down the grove that [is] by it:



(k) That is, as the Chaldea text writes, fed seven years.
#BCV:Judges 6:26
<h3><verse=Judges 6:26>Judges 6:26</verse></h3>



And build an altar unto the LORD thy God upon the top of this rock, in the ordered place, and take
the second bullock, and offer a burnt sacrifice with the wood of the (l) grove which thou shalt cut
down.



(l) Which grew about Baal's altar.
#BCV:Judges 6:28
<h3><verse=Judges 6:28>Judges 6:28</verse></h3>



And when the men of the city arose early in the morning, behold, the altar of Baal was cast down,
and the grove was cut down that [was] by it, and the (m) second bullock was offered upon the altar
[that was] built.

<page=521>(m) Meaning, the fat bull, which was kept to be offered to Baal.
#BCV:Judges 6:31
<h3><verse=Judges 6:31>Judges 6:31</verse></h3>



And Joash said unto all that stood against him, Will ye plead for Baal? will ye save him? (n) he that
will plead for him, let him be put to death whilst [it is yet] morning: if he [be] a god, let him plead
for himself, because [one] hath cast down his altar.



(n) Thus we ought to justify those who are zealous of God's cause, though all the multitude are
against us.
#BCV:Judges 6:34
<h3><verse=Judges 6:34>Judges 6:34</verse></h3>



But the Spirit of the LORD came upon Gideon, and he blew a trumpet; and (o) Abiezer was
gathered after him.



(o) The family of Abiezer, of which he was.
#BCV:Judges 6:36
<h3><verse=Judges 6:36>Judges 6:36</verse></h3>



And Gideon said unto God, (p) If thou wilt save Israel by mine hand, as thou hast said,



(p) This request proceeds not from infidelity, but that he might be confirmed in his calling.
#BCV:Judges 6:40
<h3><verse=Judges 6:40>Judges 6:40</verse></h3>



And God did so that night: for it was (q) dry upon the fleece only, and there was dew on all the
ground.



(q) By which he was assured that it was a miracle of God.

<h2>Judges 7</h2>

#BCV:Judges 7:2
<h3><verse=Judges 7:2>Judges 7:2</verse></h3>

<page=522>And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people that [are] with thee [are] too many for me to give the
Midianites into their hands, lest Israel (a) vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath
saved me.



(a) God will not that any creature deprive him of his glory.
#BCV:Judges 7:4
<h3><verse=Judges 7:4>Judges 7:4</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people [are] yet [too] many; bring them down unto the water,
and I will (b) try them for thee there: and it shall be, [that] of whom I say unto thee, This shall go
with thee, the same shall go with thee; and of whomsoever I say unto thee, This shall not go with
thee, the same shall not go.



(b) I will give you a proof to know those who will go with you.
#BCV:Judges 7:5
<h3><verse=Judges 7:5>Judges 7:5</verse></h3>



So he brought down the people unto the water: and the LORD said unto Gideon, Every one that
lappeth of the water with his tongue, as a dog lappeth, him shalt thou set by himself; (c) likewise
every one that boweth down upon his knees to drink.



(c) Let them depart as unfit for this enterprise.
#BCV:Judges 7:7
<h3><verse=Judges 7:7>Judges 7:7</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Gideon, By the three hundred men that lapped will I save you, and deliver
the Midianites into thine hand: and let all the [other] (d) people go every man unto his place.

(d) That is, the 31,000 and 700. See <bcv=Jdg 7:3>(Jdg 7:3</bcv><bcv=Jdg 7:6>,6).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 7:9
<h3><verse=Judges 7:9>Judges 7:9</verse></h3>



And it came to pass the same night, that the LORD said unto him, Arise, (e) get thee down unto the
host; for I have delivered it into thine hand.



(e) Thus the Lord by various means strengthens him, that he faint not in so great an enterprise.
#BCV:Judges 7:13
<h3><verse=Judges 7:13>Judges 7:13</verse></h3>

<page=523>And when Gideon was come, behold, [there was] a man that told a dream unto his fellow, and said,
Behold, I dreamed a dream, and, lo, a (f) cake of barley bread tumbled into the host of Midian, and
came unto a tent, and smote it that it fell, and overturned it, that the tent lay along.



(f) Some read, a trembling noise of barley bread: meaning, that one of no reputation would make
their great army tremble.
#BCV:Judges 7:15
<h3><verse=Judges 7:15>Judges 7:15</verse></h3>



And it was [so], when Gideon heard the telling of the dream, and the interpretation thereof, that he



(g) worshipped, and returned into the host of Israel, and said, Arise; for the LORD hath delivered
into your hand the host of Midian.



(g) Or, gave God thanks, as it is in the Chaldea text.
#BCV:Judges 7:16
<h3><verse=Judges 7:16>Judges 7:16</verse></h3>



And he divided the three hundred men [into] three companies, and he put a trumpet in every man's
hand, with empty pitchers, and lamps (h) within the pitchers.



(h) These weak means God used to signify that the whole victory came from him.
#BCV:Judges 7:18
<h3><verse=Judges 7:18>Judges 7:18</verse></h3>



When I blow with a trumpet, I and all that [are] with me, then blow ye the trumpets also on every
side of all the camp, and say, (i) [The sword] of the LORD, and of Gideon.



(i) That is, the victory shall be the Lord's and Gideon's his servant.
#BCV:Judges 7:20
<h3><verse=Judges 7:20>Judges 7:20</verse></h3>



And the three companies blew the trumpets, and brake the pitchers, and held the lamps in their left
hands, and the trumpets in their right hands to blow [withal]: and they cried, The (k) sword of the
LORD, and of Gideon.



(k) Shall destroy the enemies.
#BCV:Judges 7:22
<h3><verse=Judges 7:22>Judges 7:22</verse></h3>



And the three hundred blew the trumpets, and the LORD set every man's sword against his (l)
fellow, even throughout all the host: and the host fled to Bethshittah in Zererath, [and] to the border
of Abelmeholah, unto Tabbath.



(l) The Lord caused the Midianites to kill one another.
#BCV:Judges 7:24
<h3><verse=Judges 7:24>Judges 7:24</verse></h3>

<page=524>And Gideon sent messengers throughout all mount Ephraim, saying, Come down against the
Midianites, and take before them the (m) waters unto Bethbarah and Jordan. Then all the men of
Ephraim gathered themselves together, and took the waters unto Bethbarah and Jordan.



(m) Meaning, the passages or the fords so they could not escape.
#BCV:Judges 7:25
<h3><verse=Judges 7:25>Judges 7:25</verse></h3>



And they took two princes of the Midianites, Oreb and Zeeb; and they slew Oreb upon the rock
Oreb, and Zeeb they slew at (n) the winepress of Zeeb, and pursued Midian, and brought the heads
of Oreb and Zeeb to Gideon on the other side Jordan.



(n) These places got their names from the acts that were done there.

<h2>Judges 8</h2>

#BCV:Judges 8:1
<h3><verse=Judges 8:1>Judges 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=525>And the men of Ephraim said unto him, (a) Why hast thou served us thus, that thou calledst us not,
when thou wentest to fight with the Midianites? And they did chide with him sharply.



(a) They began to object, because he had the glory of the victory.
#BCV:Judges 8:2
<h3><verse=Judges 8:2>Judges 8:2</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, What have I done now in comparison of (b) you? [Is] not the (c) gleaning
of the grapes of Ephraim better than the vintage of Abiezer?



(b) Who have slain two princes, Oreb and Zeeb.



(c) This last act of the whole tribe is more famous, than the whole enterprise of one man of one
family.
#BCV:Judges 8:5
<h3><verse=Judges 8:5>Judges 8:5</verse></h3>



And he said unto the men of Succoth, Give, I pray you, (d) loaves of bread unto the people that
follow me; for they [be] faint, and I am pursuing after Zebah and Zalmunna, kings of Midian.



(d) Or, some small portion.
#BCV:Judges 8:6
<h3><verse=Judges 8:6>Judges 8:6</verse></h3>



And the princes of Succoth said, [Are] the (e) hands of Zebah and Zalmunna now in thine hand,
that we should give bread unto thine army?



(e) Because you have overcome a handful, do you think to have overcome the whole?
#BCV:Judges 8:9
<h3><verse=Judges 8:9>Judges 8:9</verse></h3>



And he spake also unto the men of Penuel, saying, When I come again (f) in peace, I will break
down this tower.



(f) Having gotten the victory.
#BCV:Judges 8:10
<h3><verse=Judges 8:10>Judges 8:10</verse></h3>

<page=526>Now Zebah and Zalmunna [were] (g) in Karkor, and their hosts with them, about fifteen thousand
[men], all that were left of all the hosts of the children of the east: for there fell an hundred and
twenty thousand men that drew sword.



(g) A city east of Jordan.
#BCV:Judges 8:11
<h3><verse=Judges 8:11>Judges 8:11</verse></h3>



And Gideon went up by the way of them that dwelt in (h) tents on the east of Nobah and Jogbehah,
and smote the host: for the host was secure.



(h) He went by the wilderness where the Arabians dwelt in tents.
#BCV:Judges 8:13
<h3><verse=Judges 8:13>Judges 8:13</verse></h3>



And Gideon the son of Joash returned from battle (i) before the sun [was up],



(i) Some read, the sun being yet high.
#BCV:Judges 8:19
<h3><verse=Judges 8:19>Judges 8:19</verse></h3>



And he said, They [were] my brethren, [even] the (k) sons of my mother: [as] the LORD liveth, if ye
had saved them alive, I would not slay you.



(k) We all came from the same womb: therefore I will be revenged.
#BCV:Judges 8:21
<h3><verse=Judges 8:21>Judges 8:21</verse></h3>



Then Zebah and Zalmunna said, Rise thou, and fall upon us: for (l) as the man [is, so is] his strength.
And Gideon arose, and slew Zebah and Zalmunna, and took away the ornaments that [were] on
their camels' necks.



(l) Meaning, that they would be freed from their pain at once, or else have a valiant man put them to
death.
#BCV:Judges 8:22
<h3><verse=Judges 8:22>Judges 8:22</verse></h3>



Then the men of Israel said unto Gideon, Rule thou over us, both thou, and thy son, and thy (m)
son's son also: for thou hast delivered us from the hand of Midian.



(m) That is, thy posterity.
#BCV:Judges 8:24
<h3><verse=Judges 8:24>Judges 8:24</verse></h3>

<page=527>And Gideon said unto them, (n) I would desire a request of you, that ye would give me every man
the earrings of his prey. (For they had golden earrings, because they [were] Ishmaelites.)



(n) His intent was to show himself thankful for this victory by restoring religion, which because it
was not according to God's command, turned to their destruction.
#BCV:Judges 8:27
<h3><verse=Judges 8:27>Judges 8:27</verse></h3>



And Gideon made an (o) ephod thereof, and put it in his city, [even] in Ophrah: and all Israel went
thither a whoring after it: which thing became a snare unto Gideon, and to his house.



(o) That is, such things as pertained to the use of the tabernacle. See ephod, (<bcv=Exo 28:4>Exo 28:4</bcv>,<bcv=Exo 28:6> Exo 28:6</bcv>;
<bcv=Judges 17:5>Jdg 17:5</bcv>; <bcv=1Sam 2:18>Sa1 2:18</bcv>; <bcv=2Sam 6:14>Sa2 6:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Judges 8:32
<h3><verse=Judges 8:32>Judges 8:32</verse></h3>



And Gideon the son of Joash died in a good old age, and was buried in the sepulchre of Joash his
father, in (p) Ophrah of the Abiezrites.



(p) A city belonging to the family of the Ezrites.
#BCV:Judges 8:33
<h3><verse=Judges 8:33>Judges 8:33</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, as soon as Gideon was dead, that the children of Israel turned again, and went
a whoring after Baalim, and made (q) Baalberith their god.



(q) That is, Baal, to whom they had bound themselves by covenant.
#BCV:Judges 8:35
<h3><verse=Judges 8:35>Judges 8:35</verse></h3>



Neither (r) shewed they kindness to the house of Jerubbaal, [namely], Gideon, according to all the
goodness which he had shewed unto Israel.



(r) They were unmindful of God and unkind to him, by whom they had received so great a benefit.

<h2>Judges 9</h2>

#BCV:Judges 9:1
<h3><verse=Judges 9:1>Judges 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=528>And Abimelech the son of Jerubbaal went to Shechem unto his (a) mother's brethren, and
communed with them, and with all the family of the house of his mother's father, saying,



(a) To practice with his kinsfolk for attaining the kingdom.
#BCV:Judges 9:2
<h3><verse=Judges 9:2>Judges 9:2</verse></h3>



Speak, I pray you, in the ears of all the men of Shechem, Whether [is] better for you, either that all
the sons of Jerubbaal, [which are] threescore and ten persons, reign over you, or that one reign over
you? remember also that I [am] your (b) bone and your flesh.



(b) Of your kindred by my mother's side.
#BCV:Judges 9:5
<h3><verse=Judges 9:5>Judges 9:5</verse></h3>



And he went unto his father's house at Ophrah, and (c) slew his brethren the sons of Jerubbaal,
[being] threescore and ten persons, upon one stone: notwithstanding yet Jotham the youngest son of
Jerubbaal was left; for he hid himself.



(c) Thus tyrants to establish their usurped power, spare not the innocent blood, (<bcv=II Ki 10:7>Kg2 10:7</bcv>; <bcv=2Ch 21:4>Ch2 21:4</bcv>).

#BCV:Judges 9:6
<h3><verse=Judges 9:6>Judges 9:6</verse></h3>



And all the men of Shechem gathered together, and all the house of (d) Millo, and went, and made
Abimelech king, by the plain of the pillar that [was] in Shechem.

(d) Which was as the town house, or common hall, which he calls the tower of Shechem in <bcv=Jdg 9:49>(Jdg 9:49).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 9:8
<h3><verse=Judges 9:8>Judges 9:8</verse></h3>




(e) The trees went forth [on a time] to anoint a king over them; and they said unto the olive tree,
Reign thou over us.



(e) By this parable he declares that those that are not ambitious, are most worthy of honour and that
the ambitious abuse their honour both to their own destruction and others.
#BCV:Judges 9:15
<h3><verse=Judges 9:15>Judges 9:15</verse></h3>

<page=529>And the bramble said unto the trees, If in truth ye anoint me king over you, [then] come [and] put
your trust in my shadow: and if not, let (f) fire come out of the bramble, and devour the cedars of
Lebanon.



(f) Abimelech will destroy the nobles of Shechem.
#BCV:Judges 9:19
<h3><verse=Judges 9:19>Judges 9:19</verse></h3>



If ye then have dealt truly and sincerely with Jerubbaal and with his house this day, [then] (g) rejoice
ye in Abimelech, and let him also rejoice in you:



(g) That he is your king, and you his subjects.
#BCV:Judges 9:23
<h3><verse=Judges 9:23>Judges 9:23</verse></h3>



Then God (h) sent an evil spirit between Abimelech and the men of Shechem; and the men of
Shechem dealt treacherously with Abimelech:



(h) Because the people consented with the king in shedding innocent blood, therefore God destroys
both one and the other.
#BCV:Judges 9:27
<h3><verse=Judges 9:27>Judges 9:27</verse></h3>



And they (i) went out into the fields, and gathered their vineyards, and trode [the grapes], and made
merry, and went into the house of their god, and did eat and drink, and cursed Abimelech.



(i) Before they were afraid of Abimelech's power, and did not dare go out of the city.
#BCV:Judges 9:29
<h3><verse=Judges 9:29>Judges 9:29</verse></h3>



And would to God this people were under my hand! then would I remove Abimelech. And he said
to (k) Abimelech, Increase thine army, and come out.



(k) Braggingly, as though he had been present, or to his captain Zebul.
#BCV:Judges 9:36
<h3><verse=Judges 9:36>Judges 9:36</verse></h3>



And when Gaal saw the people, he said to Zebul, Behold, there come people down from the top of
the mountains. And Zebul said unto him, Thou seest the (l) shadow of the mountains as [if they
were] men.



(l) You are afraid of a shadow.
#BCV:Judges 9:39
<h3><verse=Judges 9:39>Judges 9:39</verse></h3>



jdg 9:39
And Gaal (m) went out before the men of Shechem, and fought with Abimelech.



(m) As their captain.
#BCV:Judges 9:43
<h3><verse=Judges 9:43>Judges 9:43</verse></h3>



And he took the (n) people, and divided them into three companies, and laid wait in the field, and
looked, and, behold, the people [were] come forth out of the city; and he rose up against them, and
smote them.



(n) Which were in his company.
#BCV:Judges 9:45
<h3><verse=Judges 9:45>Judges 9:45</verse></h3>



And Abimelech fought against the city all that day; and he took the city, and slew the people that
[was] therein, and beat down the city, and sowed it with (o) salt.



(o) That it should be unfruitful and never serve to any use.
#BCV:Judges 9:46
<h3><verse=Judges 9:46>Judges 9:46</verse></h3>



And when all the men of the tower of Shechem heard [that], they entered into an hold of the house
of the god (p) Berith.



(p) That is, of Baniberith, as <bcv=Jdg 8:33>(Jdg 8:33).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 9:49
<h3><verse=Judges 9:49>Judges 9:49</verse></h3>



And all the people likewise cut down every man his bough, and followed Abimelech, and put [them]
to the hold, and set the hold on fire upon them; so that all the men of the tower of Shechem (q)
died also, about a thousand men and women.



(q) Meaning, that all were destroyed as well as those in the tower.
#BCV:Judges 9:54
<h3><verse=Judges 9:54>Judges 9:54</verse></h3>



Then he called hastily unto the young man his armourbearer, and said unto him, Draw thy sword,
and slay me, that men say not of me, A woman slew him. And his young man (r) thrust him through,
and he died.



(r) Thus God by such miserable death takes vengeance on tyrants even in this life.
#BCV:Judges 9:57
<h3><verse=Judges 9:57>Judges 9:57</verse></h3>



jdg 9:57
And all the evil of the men of Shechem did God render upon their heads: and upon them came the



(f) curse of Jotham the son of Jerubbaal.



(f) For making a tyrant their king.

<h2>Judges 10</h2>

#BCV:Judges 10:4
<h3><verse=Judges 10:4>Judges 10:4</verse></h3>

<page=532>And he had thirty sons that (a) rode on thirty ass colts, and they had thirty cities, which are called
Havothjair unto this day, which [are] in the land of Gilead.



(a) Signifying, they were men of authority.
#BCV:Judges 10:8
<h3><verse=Judges 10:8>Judges 10:8</verse></h3>



And that year they vexed and oppressed the children of Israel: eighteen years, (b) all the children of
Israel that [were] on the other side Jordan in the land of the Amorites, which [is] in Gilead.



(b) As the Reubenites, Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh.
#BCV:Judges 10:10
<h3><verse=Judges 10:10>Judges 10:10</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel (c) cried unto the LORD, saying, We have sinned against thee, both
because we have forsaken our God, and also served Baalim.



(c) They prayed to the Lord, and confessed their sins.
#BCV:Judges 10:11
<h3><verse=Judges 10:11>Judges 10:11</verse></h3>



And the LORD (d) said unto the children of Israel, [Did] not [I deliver you] from the Egyptians,
and from the Amorites, from the children of Ammon, and from the Philistines?

(d) By stirring them up some prophets, as in <bcv=Jdg 6:8>(Jdg 6:8).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 10:15
<h3><verse=Judges 10:15>Judges 10:15</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel said unto the LORD, We have sinned: do thou unto us whatsoever
seemeth good unto thee; deliver us only, we pray thee, (e) this day.



(e) That is, from this present danger.
#BCV:Judges 10:16
<h3><verse=Judges 10:16>Judges 10:16</verse></h3>



And they put away the strange gods from among them, and (f) served the LORD: and his soul was
grieved for the misery of Israel.



(f) This is true repentance, to put away evil, and serve God aright.

<h2>Judges 11</h2>

#BCV:Judges 11:2
<h3><verse=Judges 11:2>Judges 11:2</verse></h3>

<page=533>And Gilead's wife bare him sons; and his wife's sons grew up, and they thrust out Jephthah, and said
unto him, Thou shalt not inherit in our father's house; for thou [art] the son of a (a) strange woman.

(a) That is, of a harlot as in <bcv=Jdg 11:1>(Jdg 11:1).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 11:3
<h3><verse=Judges 11:3>Judges 11:3</verse></h3>



Then Jephthah fled from his brethren, and dwelt in the land of (b) Tob: and there were gathered
vain men to Jephthah, and (c) went out with him.



(b) Where the governor of the country was called Tob.



(c) Joined with him, as some think, against his brethren.
#BCV:Judges 11:5
<h3><verse=Judges 11:5>Judges 11:5</verse></h3>



And it was so, that when the children of Ammon made war against Israel, the (d) elders of Gilead
went to fetch Jephthah out of the land of Tob:



(d) Or, ambassadors, sent for that purpose.
#BCV:Judges 11:6
<h3><verse=Judges 11:6>Judges 11:6</verse></h3>



And they said unto Jephthah, (e) Come, and be our captain, that we may fight with the children of
Ammon.



(e) Men are often forced to ask for help from them, whom before they refused.
#BCV:Judges 11:7
<h3><verse=Judges 11:7>Judges 11:7</verse></h3>



And Jephthah said unto the elders of Gilead, Did not ye hate me, and (f) expel me out of my
father's house? and why are ye come unto me now when ye are in distress?



(f) Often those things which men reject, God chooses to do great enterprises by.
#BCV:Judges 11:20
<h3><verse=Judges 11:20>Judges 11:20</verse></h3>



But Sihon (g) trusted not Israel to pass through his coast: but Sihon gathered all his people together,
and pitched in Jahaz, and fought against Israel.



(g) He trusted them not to go through his country.
#BCV:Judges 11:24
<h3><verse=Judges 11:24>Judges 11:24</verse></h3>

<page=534>Wilt not thou possess that which Chemosh thy god giveth thee to possess? So whomsoever the (h)
LORD our God shall drive out from before us, them will we possess.



(h) For we should believe and obey God more than you your idols.
#BCV:Judges 11:26
<h3><verse=Judges 11:26>Judges 11:26</verse></h3>



While Israel dwelt in Heshbon and her towns, and in Aroer and her towns, and in all the cities that
[be] along by the coasts of Arnon, three hundred years? why therefore did ye not recover (i) [them]
within that time?



(i) Meaning their towns.
#BCV:Judges 11:27
<h3><verse=Judges 11:27>Judges 11:27</verse></h3>



Wherefore I have not sinned against thee, but thou doest me wrong to war against me: the LORD
the Judge (k) be judge this day between the children of Israel and the children of Ammon.



(k) To punish the offender.
#BCV:Judges 11:29
<h3><verse=Judges 11:29>Judges 11:29</verse></h3>



Then the (l) Spirit of the LORD came upon Jephthah, and he passed over Gilead, and Manasseh,
and passed over Mizpeh of Gilead, and from Mizpeh of Gilead he passed over [unto] the children
of Ammon.



(l) That is, the spirit of strength and zeal.
#BCV:Judges 11:30
<h3><verse=Judges 11:30>Judges 11:30</verse></h3>



And Jephthah (m) vowed a vow unto the LORD, and said, If thou shalt without fail deliver the
children of Ammon into mine hands,



(m) As the apostle commends Jephthah for his worthy enterprise in delivering the people, (<bcv=Heb 11:32>Heb 11:32</bcv>)
so by his rash vow and wicked performance of the same, his victory was defaced: and here we see
that the sins of the godly do not utterly extinguish their faith.
#BCV:Judges 11:34
<h3><verse=Judges 11:34>Judges 11:34</verse></h3>

<page=535>And Jephthah came to Mizpeh unto his house, and, behold, his daughter came out to meet him with



(n) timbrels and with dances: and she [was his] only child; beside her he had neither son nor
daughter.



(n) According to the manner after the victory.
#BCV:Judges 11:35
<h3><verse=Judges 11:35>Judges 11:35</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when he saw her, that he (o) rent his clothes, and said, Alas, my daughter! thou
hast brought me very low, and thou art one of them that trouble me: for I have opened my mouth
unto the LORD, and I cannot go back.



(o) Being overcome with blind zeal, and not considering whether the vow was lawful or not.
#BCV:Judges 11:37
<h3><verse=Judges 11:37>Judges 11:37</verse></h3>



And she said unto her father, Let this thing be done for me: let me alone two months, that I may go
up and down upon the mountains, and (p) bewail my virginity, I and my fellows.



(p) For it was counted as a shame in Israel, to die without children, and therefore they rejoiced to be
married.

<h2>Judges 12</h2>

#BCV:Judges 12:1
<h3><verse=Judges 12:1>Judges 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=536>And the men of Ephraim gathered themselves together, and went (a) northward, and said unto
Jephthah, Wherefore passedst thou over to fight against the children of Ammon, and didst not call



(b) us to go with thee? we will burn thine house upon thee with fire.



(a) After they had passed Jordan.

(b) Thus ambition envies God's work in others as they did against Gideon, <bcv=Jdg 8:1>(Jdg 8:1).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 12:3
<h3><verse=Judges 12:3>Judges 12:3</verse></h3>



And when I saw that ye delivered [me] not, (c) I put my life in my hands, and passed over against the
children of Ammon, and the LORD delivered them into my hand: wherefore then are ye come up
unto me this day, to fight against me?



(c) That is, I ventured my life, and when man's help failed, I put my trust only in God.
#BCV:Judges 12:4
<h3><verse=Judges 12:4>Judges 12:4</verse></h3>



Then Jephthah gathered together all the men of Gilead, and fought with Ephraim: and the men of
Gilead smote Ephraim, because they said, Ye Gileadites [are] fugitives of Ephraim (d) among the
Ephraimites, [and] among the Manassites.



(d) You ran from us, and chose Gilead, and now in respect to us you are nothing.
#BCV:Judges 12:6
<h3><verse=Judges 12:6>Judges 12:6</verse></h3>



Then said they unto him, Say now (e) Shibboleth: and he said Sibboleth: for he could not frame to
pronounce [it] right. Then they took him, and slew him at the passages of Jordan: and there fell at
that time of the Ephraimites forty and two thousand.



(e) Which signifies the fall of waters, or an ear of corn.
#BCV:Judges 12:8
<h3><verse=Judges 12:8>Judges 12:8</verse></h3>



And after him (f) Ibzan of Bethlehem judged Israel.



(f) Some think that this was Boaz the husband of Ruth.

<h2>Judges 13</h2>

#BCV:Judges 13:2
<h3><verse=Judges 13:2>Judges 13:2</verse></h3>

<page=537>And there was a certain man of Zorah, of the family of the Danites, whose name [was] Manoah;
and his wife [was] (a) barren, and bare not.



(a) Signifying that their deliverance came only from God, and not by man's power.
#BCV:Judges 13:5
<h3><verse=Judges 13:5>Judges 13:5</verse></h3>



For, lo, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and no razor shall come on his head: for the child shall
be a (b) Nazarite unto God from the womb: and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of
the Philistines.



(b) Meaning he should be separate from the world, and dedicated to God.
#BCV:Judges 13:6
<h3><verse=Judges 13:6>Judges 13:6</verse></h3>



Then the woman came and told her husband, saying, A man of God came unto me, and his
countenance [was] like the countenance of an angel of God, very (c) terrible: but I asked him not
whence he [was], neither told he me his name:



(c) If flesh is not able to endure the sight of an angel, how much less the presence of God?
#BCV:Judges 13:8
<h3><verse=Judges 13:8>Judges 13:8</verse></h3>



Then Manoah (d) intreated the LORD, and said, O my Lord, let the man of God which thou didst
send come again unto us, and teach us what we shall do unto the child that shall be born.



(d) He shows himself ready to obey God's will, and therefore desires to know more.
#BCV:Judges 13:10
<h3><verse=Judges 13:10>Judges 13:10</verse></h3>



And the woman made haste, and ran, and shewed her husband, and said unto him, Behold, the man
hath appeared unto me, that came unto me the (e) [other] day.



(e) It seems that the angel appeared to her twice in one day.
#BCV:Judges 13:11
<h3><verse=Judges 13:11>Judges 13:11</verse></h3>



And Manoah arose, and went after his wife, and came to the (f) man, and said unto him, [Art] thou
the man that spakest unto the woman? And he said, I [am].

<page=538>(f) He calls him man, because he so seemed, but he was Christ the eternal word, which at his
appointed time became man.
#BCV:Judges 13:14
<h3><verse=Judges 13:14>Judges 13:14</verse></h3>



She may not eat of any [thing] that cometh of the vine, neither let her drink wine or strong drink,
nor eat any (g) unclean [thing]: all that I commanded her let her observe.



(g) Anything forbidden by the Law.
#BCV:Judges 13:16
<h3><verse=Judges 13:16>Judges 13:16</verse></h3>



And the angel of the LORD said unto Manoah, Though thou detain me, I will not eat of thy bread:
and if thou wilt offer a burnt offering, thou must offer it unto the (h) LORD. For Manoah knew not
that he [was] an angel of the LORD.



(h) Showing that he did not seek his own honour but God's, whose messenger he was.
#BCV:Judges 13:19
<h3><verse=Judges 13:19>Judges 13:19</verse></h3>



So Manoah took a kid with a meat offering, and offered [it] upon a rock unto the LORD: and [the
angel] did (i) wondrously; and Manoah and his wife looked on.



(i) God sent fire from heaven to consume their sacrifice, to consume their faith in his promise.
#BCV:Judges 13:23
<h3><verse=Judges 13:23>Judges 13:23</verse></h3>



But his wife said unto him, If the LORD were pleased to kill us, he would not have received a (k)
burnt offering and a meat offering at our hands, neither would he have shewed us all these [things],
nor would as at this time have told us [such things] as these.



(k) These graces that we have received from God, and his accepting of our obedience, are sure
tokens of his love for us, so that nothing can hurt us.

<h2>Judges 14</h2>

#BCV:Judges 14:3
<h3><verse=Judges 14:3>Judges 14:3</verse></h3>

<page=539>Then his father and his mother said unto him, [Is there] (a) never a woman among the daughters of
thy brethren, or among all my people, that thou goest to take a wife of the uncircumcised Philistines?
And Samson said unto his father, Get her for me; for she pleaseth me well.

(a) Though his parents justly reprove him, yet it appears that this was the secret work of the Lord,
<bcv=Jdg 14:4>(Jdg 14:4).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 14:4
<h3><verse=Judges 14:4>Judges 14:4</verse></h3>



But his father and his mother knew not that it [was] of the LORD, that he sought an occasion
against the (b) Philistines: for at that time the Philistines had dominion over Israel.



(b) To fight against them for the deliverance of Israel.
#BCV:Judges 14:6
<h3><verse=Judges 14:6>Judges 14:6</verse></h3>



And the Spirit of the LORD (c) came mightily upon him, and he rent him as he would have rent a
kid, and [he had] nothing in his hand: but he told not his father or his mother what he had done.



(c) By which he had strength and boldness.
#BCV:Judges 14:10
<h3><verse=Judges 14:10>Judges 14:10</verse></h3>



So his father went down unto the woman: and Samson made there a (d) feast; for so used the young
men to do.



(d) Meaning when he was married.
#BCV:Judges 14:11
<h3><verse=Judges 14:11>Judges 14:11</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when (e) they saw him, that they brought thirty companions to be with him.



(e) That is, her parents or friends.
#BCV:Judges 14:12
<h3><verse=Judges 14:12>Judges 14:12</verse></h3>



And Samson said unto them, I will now put forth a riddle unto you: if ye can certainly declare it me
within the seven days of the feast, and find [it] out, then I will give you thirty sheets and thirty (f)
change of garments:

<page=540>(f) To wear at feasts, or solemn days.
#BCV:Judges 14:15
<h3><verse=Judges 14:15>Judges 14:15</verse></h3>



And it came to pass (g) on the seventh day, that they said unto Samson's wife, Entice thy husband,
that he may declare unto us the riddle, lest we burn thee and thy father's house with fire: have ye
called us to take that we have? [is it] not [so]?



(g) Or as the seventh day drew near, for it was the fourth day.
#BCV:Judges 14:16
<h3><verse=Judges 14:16>Judges 14:16</verse></h3>



And Samson's wife wept before him, and said, Thou dost but hate me, and lovest me not: thou hast
put forth a riddle unto the (h) children of my people, and hast not told [it] me. And he said unto her,
Behold, I have not told [it] my father nor my mother, and shall I tell [it] thee?



(h) To those who are of my nation.
#BCV:Judges 14:17
<h3><verse=Judges 14:17>Judges 14:17</verse></h3>



And she wept before him the (i) seven days, while their feast lasted: and it came to pass on the
seventh day, that he told her, because she lay sore upon him: and she told the riddle to the children
of her people.



(i) Or, to the seventh day beginning at the fourth.
#BCV:Judges 14:18
<h3><verse=Judges 14:18>Judges 14:18</verse></h3>



And the men of the city said unto him on the seventh day before the sun went down, What [is]
sweeter than honey? and what [is] stronger than a lion? And he said unto them, (k) If ye had not
plowed with my heifer, ye had not found out my riddle.



(k) If you had not used the help of my wife.
#BCV:Judges 14:19
<h3><verse=Judges 14:19>Judges 14:19</verse></h3>



And the Spirit of the LORD came upon him, and he went down (l) to Ashkelon, and slew thirty
men of them, and took their spoil, and gave change of garments unto them which expounded the
riddle. And his anger was kindled, and he went up to his father's house.



(l) Which was one of the five chief cities of the Philistines.

<h2>Judges 15</h2>

#BCV:Judges 15:1
<h3><verse=Judges 15:1>Judges 15:1</verse></h3>

<page=541>But it came to pass within a while after, in the time of wheat harvest, that Samson visited his wife
with a kid; and he said, I will (a) go in to my wife into the chamber. But her father would not suffer
him to go in.



(a) That is, I will use her as my wife.
#BCV:Judges 15:3
<h3><verse=Judges 15:3>Judges 15:3</verse></h3>



And Samson said concerning them, Now shall I be more (b) blameless than the Philistines, though I
do them a displeasure.



(b) For through his father-in-law's actions, he was moved again to take vengeance on the Philistines.
#BCV:Judges 15:5
<h3><verse=Judges 15:5>Judges 15:5</verse></h3>



And when he had set the brands on fire, he let [them] go into the standing corn of the Philistines,
and burnt up both the (c) shocks, and also the standing corn, with the vineyards [and] olives.



(c) Or, that which was reaped and gathered.
#BCV:Judges 15:6
<h3><verse=Judges 15:6>Judges 15:6</verse></h3>



Then the Philistines said, Who hath done this? And they answered, Samson, the son in law of the (d)
Timnite, because he had taken his wife, and given her to his companion. And the Philistines came up,
and (e) burnt her and her father with fire.



(d) Or, the citizen of Timnath.



(e) So the wicked do not punish vice for love of justice, but for fear of danger, which also might
come to them.
#BCV:Judges 15:10
<h3><verse=Judges 15:10>Judges 15:10</verse></h3>



And the men of Judah said, Why are ye come up against us? And they answered, To (f) bind Samson
are we come up, to do to him as he hath done to us.



(f) And so being our prisoner to punish him.
#BCV:Judges 15:11
<h3><verse=Judges 15:11>Judges 15:11</verse></h3>

<page=542>Then three thousand men of Judah went to the top of the rock Etam, and said to Samson, Knowest
thou not that the Philistines [are] rulers over us? (g) what [is] this [that] thou hast done unto us? And
he said unto them, As they did unto me, so have I done unto them.



(g) Such was their gross ignorance, that they judged God's great benefits to be a plague to them.
#BCV:Judges 15:13
<h3><verse=Judges 15:13>Judges 15:13</verse></h3>



And they spake unto him, saying, No; but we will bind thee fast, and (h) deliver thee into their hand:
but surely we will not kill thee. And they bound him with two new cords, and brought him up from
the rock.



(h) Thus they would rather betray their brother than use the means that God had given for their
deliverance.
#BCV:Judges 15:15
<h3><verse=Judges 15:15>Judges 15:15</verse></h3>



And he found a (i) new jawbone of an ass, and put forth his hand, and took it, and slew a thousand
men therewith.



(i) That is, of an ass recently slain.
#BCV:Judges 15:18
<h3><verse=Judges 15:18>Judges 15:18</verse></h3>



And he was sore athirst, and (k) called on the LORD, and said, Thou hast given this great
deliverance into the hand of thy servant: and now shall I die for thirst, and fall into the hand of the
uncircumcised?



(k) By which it appears that he did these things in faith, and so with a true zeal to glorify God, and
deliver his country.

<h2>Judges 16</h2>

#BCV:Judges 16:1
<h3><verse=Judges 16:1>Judges 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=543>Then went Samson to (a) Gaza, and saw there an harlot, (b) and went in unto her.



(a) One of the five chief cities of the Philistines.



(b) That is, he lodged with her.
#BCV:Judges 16:5
<h3><verse=Judges 16:5>Judges 16:5</verse></h3>



And the lords of the Philistines came up unto her, and said unto her, Entice him, and see wherein
his great strength [lieth], and by what [means] we may prevail against him, that we may bind him to
afflict him: and we will give thee every one of us eleven hundred (c) [pieces] of silver.



(c) Of the value of a shekel, read (<bcv=Gen 23:15>Gen 23:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Judges 16:9
<h3><verse=Judges 16:9>Judges 16:9</verse></h3>



Now [there were] (d) men lying in wait, abiding with her in the chamber. And she said unto him,
The Philistines [be] upon thee, Samson. And he brake the withs, as a thread of tow is broken when



(e) it toucheth the fire. So his strength was not known.



(d) Certain Philistines in a secret chamber.



(e) When fire comes near it.
#BCV:Judges 16:10
<h3><verse=Judges 16:10>Judges 16:10</verse></h3>



And Delilah said unto Samson, Behold, thou hast mocked me, and told me lies: now (f) tell me, I
pray thee, wherewith thou mightest be bound.



(f) Though her deceit threatened his life, yet his affection so blinded him, that he could not beware.
#BCV:Judges 16:13
<h3><verse=Judges 16:13>Judges 16:13</verse></h3>



And Delilah said unto Samson, Hitherto thou hast mocked me, and told me lies: tell me wherewith
thou mightest be bound. (g) And he said unto her, If thou weavest the seven locks of my head with
the web.



(g) It is impossible if we give place to our wicked affections, for eventually we will be destroyed.
#BCV:Judges 16:15
<h3><verse=Judges 16:15>Judges 16:15</verse></h3>

<page=544>And she said unto him, How canst thou say, (h) I love thee, when thine heart [is] not with me? thou
hast mocked me these three times, and hast not told me wherein thy great strength [lieth].



(h) For Samson used to say "I love you".
#BCV:Judges 16:17
<h3><verse=Judges 16:17>Judges 16:17</verse></h3>



That he told her all his (i) heart, and said unto her, There hath not come a razor upon mine head; for
I [have been] a Nazarite unto God from my mother's womb: if I be shaven, then my strength will go
from me, and I shall become weak, and be like any [other] man.



(i) Thus his immoderate affections toward a wicked woman caused him to lose God's excellent gifts,
and become a slave to those whom he should have ruled.
#BCV:Judges 16:19
<h3><verse=Judges 16:19>Judges 16:19</verse></h3>



And she made him sleep upon her knees; and she called for a man, and she caused him to shave off
the seven locks of his head; and she began to afflict him, and his strength went (k) from him.



(k) Not for the loss of his hair, but for the contempt of the ordinance of God, which was the
reason God departed from him.
#BCV:Judges 16:22
<h3><verse=Judges 16:22>Judges 16:22</verse></h3>



Howbeit the hair of his head began to (l) grow again after he was shaven.



(l) Yet he did not regain his strength, till he had called on God and reconciled himself.
#BCV:Judges 16:25
<h3><verse=Judges 16:25>Judges 16:25</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when their hearts were merry, that they said, Call for Samson, that he may make
us sport. And they called for Samson out of the prison house; and he (m) made them sport: and
they set him between the pillars.



(m) Thus by God's just judgments they are made slaves to infidels if they neglect their calling to
defend the faithful.
#BCV:Judges 16:28
<h3><verse=Judges 16:28>Judges 16:28</verse></h3>



And Samson called unto the LORD, and said, O Lord GOD, remember me, I pray thee, and
strengthen me, I pray thee, only this once, O God, that I may be at once (n) avenged of the
Philistines for my two eyes.



(n) According to my calling which is to execute God's judgments on the wicked.
#BCV:Judges 16:30
<h3><verse=Judges 16:30>Judges 16:30</verse></h3>

<page=545>And Samson said, (o) Let me die with the Philistines. And he bowed himself with [all his] might; and
the house fell upon the lords, and upon all the people that [were] therein. So the dead which he slew
at his death were more than [they] which he slew in his life.



(o) He does not speak out of despair, but humbling himself for neglecting his office and the offence
thereby given.

<h2>Judges 17</h2>

#BCV:Judges 17:1
<h3><verse=Judges 17:1>Judges 17:1</verse></h3>

<page=546>And there (a) was a man of mount Ephraim, whose name [was] Micah.



(a) Some think this history was in the time of Othniel, or as Josephus writes, immediately after

<h1>Joshua.</h1>

#BCV:Judges 17:3
<h3><verse=Judges 17:3>Judges 17:3</verse></h3>



And when he had restored the eleven hundred [shekels] of silver to his mother, his mother said, I
had wholly dedicated the silver unto the LORD from my hand for my son, to make a (b) graven
image and a molten image: now therefore I will restore it unto thee.



(b) Contrary to the commandment of God and true religion practised under Joshua, they forsook
the Lord and fell into idolatry.
#BCV:Judges 17:5
<h3><verse=Judges 17:5>Judges 17:5</verse></h3>



And the man Micah had an house of gods, and made an (c) ephod, and (d) teraphim, and
consecrated one of his sons, who became his priest.

(c) He would serve both God and idols.

(d) By Teraphim some understand certain idols, having the likeness of a man, but others understand
by it all manner of things and instruments belonging to those who sought an answer at God's hands,
as in <bcv=Jdg 18:5-6>(Jdg 18:5-6).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 17:6
<h3><verse=Judges 17:6>Judges 17:6</verse></h3>



In those days [there was] no (e) king in Israel, [but] every man did [that which was] right in his own
eyes.



(e) For where there is no Magistrate fearing God, there can be no true religion or order.
#BCV:Judges 17:7
<h3><verse=Judges 17:7>Judges 17:7</verse></h3>



And there was a young man out of Bethlehemjudah (f) of the family of Judah, who [was] a Levite,
and he sojourned there.



(f) Which Bethlehem was in the tribe of Judah.
#BCV:Judges 17:9
<h3><verse=Judges 17:9>Judges 17:9</verse></h3>

<page=547>And Micah said unto him, Whence comest thou? And he said unto him, (g) I [am] a Levite of
Bethlehemjudah, and I go to sojourn where I may find [a place].



(g) For in those days the service of God was corrupt in all estates and the Levites were not looked to.
#BCV:Judges 17:11
<h3><verse=Judges 17:11>Judges 17:11</verse></h3>



And the Levite was (h) content to dwell with the man; and the young man was unto him as one of
his sons.



(h) Not considering that he forsook the true worship of God to maintain his own belly.
#BCV:Judges 17:13
<h3><verse=Judges 17:13>Judges 17:13</verse></h3>



Then said Micah, Now know I that the LORD will do me (i) good, seeing I have a Levite to [my]
priest.



(i) Thus the idolaters persuade themselves of God's favour, when indeed he detests them.

<h2>Judges 18</h2>

#BCV:Judges 18:1
<h3><verse=Judges 18:1>Judges 18:1</verse></h3>

<page=548>In those days [there was] no (a) king in Israel: and in those days the tribe of the Danites sought them
an inheritance to dwell in; for unto that day [all their] inheritance had not fallen unto them among
the tribes of Israel.



(a) Meaning, no ordinary magistrate to punish vice according to God's word.
#BCV:Judges 18:2
<h3><verse=Judges 18:2>Judges 18:2</verse></h3>



And the children of Dan sent of their family five men from their coasts, men of valour, from Zorah,
and from Eshtaol, to spy out the land, and to search it; and they said unto them, (b) Go, search the
land: who when they came to mount Ephraim, to the house of Micah, they lodged there.



(b) For the portion which Joshua gave them, was not sufficient for all their tribe.
#BCV:Judges 18:3
<h3><verse=Judges 18:3>Judges 18:3</verse></h3>



When they [were] by the house of Micah, they knew the (c) voice of the young man the Levite: and
they turned in thither, and said unto him, Who brought thee hither? and what makest thou in this
[place]? and what hast thou here?



(c) They knew by his speech that he was a stranger there.
#BCV:Judges 18:6
<h3><verse=Judges 18:6>Judges 18:6</verse></h3>



And the priest said unto them, (d) Go in peace: before the LORD [is] your way wherein ye go.



(d) Thus sometimes God grants the idolaters requests to the destruction of those who delight in
errors.
#BCV:Judges 18:9
<h3><verse=Judges 18:9>Judges 18:9</verse></h3>



And they said, Arise, that we may go up against them: for we have seen the land, and, behold, it [is]
very good: and (e) [are] ye still? be not slothful to go, [and] to enter to possess the land.



(e) Would you lose this good opportunity because of your laziness?
#BCV:Judges 18:14
<h3><verse=Judges 18:14>Judges 18:14</verse></h3>

<page=549>Then answered the five men that went to spy out the country of Laish, and said unto their brethren,



(f) Do ye know that there is in these houses an ephod, and teraphim, and a graven image, and a
molten image? now therefore consider what ye have to do.



(f) Because before they had had good success, they wanted their brethren to be encouraged by
hearing the same tidings.
#BCV:Judges 18:17
<h3><verse=Judges 18:17>Judges 18:17</verse></h3>



And the five men that went to spy out the land went up, [and] came in thither, [and] took the (g)
graven image, and the ephod, and the teraphim, and the molten image: and the priest stood in the
entering of the gate with the six hundred men [that were] appointed with weapons of war.



(g) Superstition blinded them so that they thought God's power was in the idols, and that they would
have good success because of them, though they took them away by robbery and violence.
#BCV:Judges 18:20
<h3><verse=Judges 18:20>Judges 18:20</verse></h3>



And the priest's heart was glad, and he took the ephod, and the teraphim, and the graven image, and
went in the midst of the (h) people.



(h) With the six hundred men.
#BCV:Judges 18:21
<h3><verse=Judges 18:21>Judges 18:21</verse></h3>



So they turned and departed, and put the little ones and the cattle and the carriage (i) before them.



(i) Suspecting them that pursued them.
#BCV:Judges 18:24
<h3><verse=Judges 18:24>Judges 18:24</verse></h3>



And he said, Ye have taken away my (k) gods which I made, and the priest, and ye are gone away:
and what have I more? and what [is] this [that] ye say unto me, What aileth thee?



(k) This declares the opinion the idolaters have of their idols.
#BCV:Judges 18:27
<h3><verse=Judges 18:27>Judges 18:27</verse></h3>



And they took [the (l) things] which Micah had made, and the priest which he had, and came unto
Laish, unto a people [that were] at quiet and secure: and they smote them with the edge of the
sword, and burnt the city with fire.

(l) Meaning, the idols, as in <bcv=Jdg 18:18>(Jdg 18:18).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 18:30
<h3><verse=Judges 18:30>Judges 18:30</verse></h3>



jdg 18:30
And the children of Dan set up the (n) graven image: and Jonathan, the son of Gershom, the son
of Manasseh, he and his sons were priests to the tribe of Dan until the day of the (o) captivity of
the land.



(n) Thus instead of giving glory to God, they attributed the victory to their idols, and honoured
them therefore.



(o) That is, till the Ark was taken, (<bcv=I Sa 5:1>Sa1 5:1</bcv>).

<h2>Judges 19</h2>

#BCV:Judges 19:6
<h3><verse=Judges 19:6>Judges 19:6</verse></h3>

<page=551>And they sat down, and did eat and drink both of them together: for the (a) damsel's father had said
unto the man, Be content, I pray thee, and tarry all night, and let thine heart be merry.



(a) That is, his concubines father.
#BCV:Judges 19:8
<h3><verse=Judges 19:8>Judges 19:8</verse></h3>



And he arose early in the morning on the fifth day to depart: and the damsel's father said, (b)
Comfort thine heart, I pray thee. And they tarried until afternoon, and they did eat both of them.

(b) Meaning, that he should refresh himself with food, as in <bcv=Jdg 19:5>(Jdg 19:5).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 19:9
<h3><verse=Judges 19:9>Judges 19:9</verse></h3>



And when the man rose up to depart, he, and his concubine, and his servant, his father in law, the
damsel's father, said unto him, Behold, now the day draweth toward evening, I pray you tarry all
night: behold, the day groweth to an end, lodge here, that thine heart may be merry; and to morrow
get you early on your way, that thou mayest go (c) home.



(c) That is, to the town or city where he lived.
#BCV:Judges 19:12
<h3><verse=Judges 19:12>Judges 19:12</verse></h3>



And his master said unto him, (d) We will not turn aside hither into the city of a stranger, that [is]
not of the children of Israel; we will pass over to Gibeah.



(d) Though in these days there were most horrible corruptions, even necessity could not compel
them to associate with those who did not profess the true God.
#BCV:Judges 19:16
<h3><verse=Judges 19:16>Judges 19:16</verse></h3>



And, behold, there came an old man from his work out of the field at even, which [was] also of
mount Ephraim; and he sojourned in Gibeah: but the men of the place [were] (e) Benjamites.



(e) Or, the children of Jamini.
#BCV:Judges 19:18
<h3><verse=Judges 19:18>Judges 19:18</verse></h3>

<page=552>And he said unto him, We [are] passing from Bethlehemjudah toward the side of mount Ephraim;
from thence [am] I: and I went to Bethlehemjudah, but I [am now] going to the (f) house of the
LORD; and there [is] no man that receiveth me to house.



(f) To Shiloh of Mizpeh where the ark was.
#BCV:Judges 19:22
<h3><verse=Judges 19:22>Judges 19:22</verse></h3>



[Now] as they were making their hearts merry, behold, the men of the city, certain sons of Belial,
beset the house round about, [and] (g) beat at the door, and spake to the master of the house, the
old man, saying, Bring forth the man that came into thine house, that we may know him.



(g) In an attempt to break it.
#BCV:Judges 19:24
<h3><verse=Judges 19:24>Judges 19:24</verse></h3>



Behold, [here is] my daughter a maiden, and his concubine; them I will bring out now, (h) and
humble ye them, and do with them what seemeth good unto you: but unto this man do not so vile a
thing.



(h) That is, abuse them, as in (<bcv=Gen 19:8>Gen 19:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Judges 19:26
<h3><verse=Judges 19:26>Judges 19:26</verse></h3>



Then came the woman in the dawning of the day, and (i) fell down at the door of the man's house
where her lord [was], till it was light.

(i) She fell down dead, as in <bcv=Jdg 19:27>(Jdg 19:27).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 19:28
<h3><verse=Judges 19:28>Judges 19:28</verse></h3>



And he said unto her, Up, and let us be going. But none answered. Then the man took her [up] upon
an ass, and the man rose up, and gat him unto his (k) place.



(k) Meaning, home to mount Ephraim.
#BCV:Judges 19:30
<h3><verse=Judges 19:30>Judges 19:30</verse></h3>



And it was so, that all that saw it said, There was no (l) such deed done nor seen from the day that
the children of Israel came up out of the land of Egypt unto this day: consider of it, take advice,
and speak [your minds].



(l) For this was like the sin of Sodom for which God rained down fire and brimstone from heaven.

<h2>Judges 20</h2>

#BCV:Judges 20:1
<h3><verse=Judges 20:1>Judges 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=553>Then all the children of Israel went out, and the congregation was gathered together as (a) one man,
from Dan even to Beersheba, with the land of Gilead, unto the (b) LORD in Mizpeh.



(a) That is, all with one consent.



(b) To ask counsel.
#BCV:Judges 20:2
<h3><verse=Judges 20:2>Judges 20:2</verse></h3>



And the chief of all the people, [even] of all the tribes of Israel, presented themselves in the
assembly of the people of God, four hundred thousand footmen that (c) drew sword.



(c) Meaning, men able to handle their weapons.
#BCV:Judges 20:3
<h3><verse=Judges 20:3>Judges 20:3</verse></h3>




(Now the children of Benjamin heard that the children of Israel were gone up to Mizpeh.) Then (d)
said the children of Israel, Tell [us], how was this wickedness?



(d) To the Levite.
#BCV:Judges 20:6
<h3><verse=Judges 20:6>Judges 20:6</verse></h3>



And I took my concubine, and cut her in pieces, and sent (e) her throughout all the country of the
inheritance of Israel: for they have committed lewdness and folly in Israel.

(e) That is, her pieces, to every tribe a piece, <bcv=Jdg 19:29>(Jdg 19:29).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 20:8
<h3><verse=Judges 20:8>Judges 20:8</verse></h3>



And all the people arose as one man, saying, We will not any [of us] go to his tent, neither will we
any [of us] turn into his (f) house.



(f) Before we have avenged this wickedness.
#BCV:Judges 20:10
<h3><verse=Judges 20:10>Judges 20:10</verse></h3>



And we will take ten men of an hundred throughout all the tribes of Israel, and an hundred of a
thousand, and a thousand out of ten thousand, to fetch (g) victual for the people, that they may do,
when they come to Gibeah of Benjamin, according to all the folly that they have wrought in Israel.

<page=554>(g) Only these would be charged to provide food for the rest.
#BCV:Judges 20:12
<h3><verse=Judges 20:12>Judges 20:12</verse></h3>



And the tribes of Israel sent men through all the (h) tribe of Benjamin, saying, What wickedness [is]
this that is done among you?



(h) That is, every family of the tribe.
#BCV:Judges 20:13
<h3><verse=Judges 20:13>Judges 20:13</verse></h3>



Now therefore deliver [us] the men, the children of Belial, which [are] in Gibeah, that we may put
them to death, and put away evil from Israel. But the children of Benjamin (i) would not hearken to
the voice of their brethren the children of Israel:



(i) Because they would not allow the wicked to be punished, they declared themselves in agreement
with their evil, and therefore all were justly punished.
#BCV:Judges 20:18
<h3><verse=Judges 20:18>Judges 20:18</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel arose, and went up (k) to the house of God, and asked counsel of God,
and said, Which of us shall go up first to the battle against the children of Benjamin? And the
LORD said, Judah [shall go up] first.

(k) That is, to the ark, which was in Shiloh some think in Mizpeh, as in <bcv=Jdg 20:1>(Jdg 20:1).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 20:21
<h3><verse=Judges 20:21>Judges 20:21</verse></h3>



And the children of Benjamin came forth out of Gibeah, and destroyed down to the ground of the
Israelites that day (l) twenty and two thousand men.



(l) This God permitted because by this means he would punish their sins, by the strength of the
Israelites.
#BCV:Judges 20:27
<h3><verse=Judges 20:27>Judges 20:27</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel enquired of the LORD, (for the ark of the covenant of God [was] (m)
there in those days,



(m) That is, in Shiloh.
#BCV:Judges 20:28
<h3><verse=Judges 20:28>Judges 20:28</verse></h3>

<page=555>And Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron, (n) stood before it in those days,) saying, Shall
I yet again go out to battle against the children of Benjamin my brother, or shall I cease? And the
LORD said, Go up; for to morrow I will deliver them into thine hand.



(n) Or, served in the priest's office in those days: for the Jews write that he lived three hundred years.
#BCV:Judges 20:31
<h3><verse=Judges 20:31>Judges 20:31</verse></h3>



And the children of Benjamin went out against the people, [and] were (o) drawn away from the city;
and they began to smite of the people, [and] kill, as at other times, in the highways, of which one
goeth up to the house of God, and the other to Gibeah in the field, about thirty men of Israel.



(o) By the policy of the children of Israel.
#BCV:Judges 20:32
<h3><verse=Judges 20:32>Judges 20:32</verse></h3>



And the children of Benjamin said, They [are] smitten down before us, as at the first. But the
children of Israel said, Let us flee, and draw them from the city unto the (p) highways.



(p) Meaning, crossways or paths to various places.
#BCV:Judges 20:34
<h3><verse=Judges 20:34>Judges 20:34</verse></h3>



And there came against Gibeah ten thousand chosen men out of all Israel, and the battle was sore:
but they knew not that (q) evil [was] near them.



(q) They did not know that God's judgment was at hand to destroy them.
#BCV:Judges 20:36
<h3><verse=Judges 20:36>Judges 20:36</verse></h3>



So the children of Benjamin saw that they were smitten: for the men of Israel (r) gave place to the
Benjamites, because they trusted unto the liers in wait which they had set beside Gibeah.



(r) Retired to draw them after.
#BCV:Judges 20:39
<h3><verse=Judges 20:39>Judges 20:39</verse></h3>



And when the men of Israel retired in the battle, Benjamin began to (s) smite [and] kill of the men
of Israel about thirty persons: for they said, Surely they are smitten down before us, as [in] the first
battle.



(s) For they had grown bold because of the two former victories.
#BCV:Judges 20:41
<h3><verse=Judges 20:41>Judges 20:41</verse></h3>



jdg 20:41
And when the men of Israel turned (t) again, the men of Benjamin were amazed: for they saw that
evil was come upon them.



(t) And withstood their enemies.
#BCV:Judges 20:42
<h3><verse=Judges 20:42>Judges 20:42</verse></h3>



Therefore they turned [their backs] before the men of Israel unto the way of the wilderness; but the
battle overtook them; and them which [came] out of the cities they destroyed (u) in the midst of
them.



(u) For they were surrounded from every side.
#BCV:Judges 20:45
<h3><verse=Judges 20:45>Judges 20:45</verse></h3>



And they turned and fled toward the wilderness unto the rock of Rimmon: and they (x) gleaned of
them in the highways five thousand men; and pursued hard after them unto Gidom, and slew two
thousand men of them.



(x) They slew them one by one, as they were scattered abroad.
#BCV:Judges 20:46
<h3><verse=Judges 20:46>Judges 20:46</verse></h3>



So that all which fell that day of Benjamin were (y) twenty and five thousand men that drew the
sword; all these [were] men of valour.



(y) Besides eleven hundred that had been slain in the previous battles.
#BCV:Judges 20:48
<h3><verse=Judges 20:48>Judges 20:48</verse></h3>



And the men of Israel turned again upon the children of Benjamin, and smote them with the edge
of the sword, as well the men of [every] city, as the beast, and all that came to hand: also they set on
fire all the (z) cities that they came to.



(z) If they belonged to the Benjamites.

<h2>Judges 21</h2>

#BCV:Judges 21:1
<h3><verse=Judges 21:1>Judges 21:1</verse></h3>

<page=557>Now the men of Israel had (a) sworn in Mizpeh, saying, There shall not any of us give his daughter
unto Benjamin to wife.



(a) This was a rash oath, and not from judgment: for they later broke it, showing secretly the means
to marry certain of their daughters.
#BCV:Judges 21:4
<h3><verse=Judges 21:4>Judges 21:4</verse></h3>



And it came to pass on the morrow, that the people rose early, and built there an (b) altar, and
offered burnt offerings and peace offerings.



(b) According to their custom, when they would consult the Lord.
#BCV:Judges 21:6
<h3><verse=Judges 21:6>Judges 21:6</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel (c) repented them for Benjamin their brother, and said, There is one tribe
cut off from Israel this day.

(c) Or, were sorry that they had destroyed their brethren, as it appears in <bcv=Jdg 21:15>(Jdg 21:15).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 21:8
<h3><verse=Judges 21:8>Judges 21:8</verse></h3>



And they said, What one [is there] of the tribes of Israel that (d) came not up to Mizpeh to the
LORD? And, behold, there came none to the camp from Jabeshgilead to the assembly.



(d) Condemning them as lovers of evil, who would not punish it.
#BCV:Judges 21:13
<h3><verse=Judges 21:13>Judges 21:13</verse></h3>



And the whole congregation (e) sent [some] to speak to the children of Benjamin that [were] in the
rock Rimmon, and to call peaceably unto them.

(e) That is, about four months after the punishment, <bcv=Jdg 20:47>(Jdg 20:47).</bcv>

#BCV:Judges 21:14
<h3><verse=Judges 21:14>Judges 21:14</verse></h3>



And Benjamin came again at that time; and they gave them wives which they had saved alive of the
women of Jabeshgilead: and yet (f) so they sufficed them not.



(f) For they were short two hundred.
#BCV:Judges 21:17
<h3><verse=Judges 21:17>Judges 21:17</verse></h3>

<page=558>And they said, [There must be] (g) an inheritance for them that be escaped of Benjamin, that a tribe
be not destroyed out of Israel.



(g) Benjamin must be preserved to have the twelfth portion in the inheritance of Jacob.
#BCV:Judges 21:19
<h3><verse=Judges 21:19>Judges 21:19</verse></h3>



Then they said, Behold, [there is] a feast of the LORD in Shiloh yearly [in a place] which [is] on the



(h) north side of Bethel, on the east side of the highway that goeth up from Bethel to Shechem, and
on the south of Lebonah.



(h) He describes the place where the maids used to dance yearly, and sing psalms and songs of
God's works among them, as the custom was then.
#BCV:Judges 21:22
<h3><verse=Judges 21:22>Judges 21:22</verse></h3>



And it shall be, (i) when their fathers or their brethren come unto us to complain, that we will say
unto them, Be favourable unto them for our sakes: because we reserved not to each man his wife in
the war: for ye did not give unto them at this time, [that] ye should be guilty.



(i) Though they attempted to convince man that they had kept their oath, before God it was broken.
#BCV:Judges 21:23
<h3><verse=Judges 21:23>Judges 21:23</verse></h3>



And the children of Benjamin did so, and took [them] wives, according to their (k) number, of them
that danced, whom they caught: and they went and returned unto their inheritance, and repaired the
cities, and dwelt in them.



(k) Meaning, two hundred.

<h1>Ruth</h1>


<h2>Ruth 1</h2>

#BCV:Ruth 1:1
<h3><verse=Ruth 1:1>Ruth 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=559>Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the (a) land. And a
certain man of (b) Bethlehemjudah went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he, and his wife, and
his two sons.



The Argument - This book is called Ruth, who is the main person spoken of in this writing. In
which also the state of the Church is set forth figuratively, being subject to many afflictions and yet
eventually God gives good and joyful offspring, teaching us to abide with patience till God delivers
us out of troubles. In this also it is described how Jesus Christ, who according to the flesh came
from David, proceeded by Ruth, of whom the Lord Jesus promised to come, nonetheless she was a
Moabite of base condition, and a stranger to the people of God; declaring to us by it that the
Gentiles would be sanctified by him, and joined with his people, and that there would be one
sheepfold, and one shepherd. It would appear that this account belongs to the time of the judges.



(a) In the land of Canaan.



(b) In the tribe of Judah, which was also called Bethlehem Ephrathat, because there was another city
so called in the tribe of Zebulun.
#BCV:Ruth 1:4
<h3><verse=Ruth 1:4>Ruth 1:4</verse></h3>



And they took them wives of the (c) women of Moab; the name of the one [was] Orpah, and the
name of the other Ruth: and they dwelled there about ten years.



(c) By this wonderful providence of God Ruth became one of God's household, of whom Christ
came.
#BCV:Ruth 1:6
<h3><verse=Ruth 1:6>Ruth 1:6</verse></h3>



Then she arose with her daughters in law, that she might return from the country of Moab: for she
had heard in the country of Moab how that the LORD had (d) visited his people in giving them
bread.



(d) By sending them plenty again.
#BCV:Ruth 1:9
<h3><verse=Ruth 1:9>Ruth 1:9</verse></h3>

<page=560>The LORD grant you that ye may find (e) rest, each [of you] in the house of her husband. Then she
kissed them; and they lifted up their voice, and wept.



(e) By this it appears that Naomi by dwelling among idolaters, had become cold to the true zeal of
God, having more respect for the comfort of the body than the comfort of the soul.
#BCV:Ruth 1:14
<h3><verse=Ruth 1:14>Ruth 1:14</verse></h3>



And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah (f) kissed her mother in law; but Ruth
clave unto her.



(f) When she took leave and departed.
#BCV:Ruth 1:15
<h3><verse=Ruth 1:15>Ruth 1:15</verse></h3>



And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: (g) return
thou after thy sister in law.



(g) No persuasion can convince them to turn back from God, if he has chosen them to be his.
#BCV:Ruth 1:19
<h3><verse=Ruth 1:19>Ruth 1:19</verse></h3>



So they two went until they came to Bethlehem. And it came to pass, when they were come to
Bethlehem, that all the city was (h) moved about them, and they said, [Is] this Naomi?



(h) By which it appears that she was of a great family of good reputation.
#BCV:Ruth 1:22
<h3><verse=Ruth 1:22>Ruth 1:22</verse></h3>



So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess, her daughter in law, with her, which returned out of
the country of Moab: and they came to Bethlehem in the beginning of (i) barley harvest.



(i) Which was in the month of Nisan, that is, part March and part April.

<h2>Ruth 2</h2>

#BCV:Ruth 2:1
<h3><verse=Ruth 2:1>Ruth 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=561>And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband's, a mighty man of (a) wealth, of the family of
Elimelech; and his name [was] Boaz.



(a) Or power, both in virtue, authority and riches.
#BCV:Ruth 2:2
<h3><verse=Ruth 2:2>Ruth 2:2</verse></h3>



And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, Let me now go to the field, and (b) glean ears of corn
after [him] in whose sight I shall find grace. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter.



(b) Her humility declares her great love for her mother in law, for she spared no hardship to get both
their livings.
#BCV:Ruth 2:9
<h3><verse=Ruth 2:9>Ruth 2:9</verse></h3>




(c) [Let] thine eyes [be] on the field that they do reap, and go thou after them: have I not charged the
young men that they shall not touch thee? and when thou art athirst, go unto the vessels, and drink
of [that] which the young men have drawn.



(c) That is, take notice of what field they reap.
#BCV:Ruth 2:10
<h3><verse=Ruth 2:10>Ruth 2:10</verse></h3>



Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, Why have I found
grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I [am] a (d) stranger?



(d) Of the Moabites, who are enemies of God's people.
#BCV:Ruth 2:12
<h3><verse=Ruth 2:12>Ruth 2:12</verse></h3>



The LORD recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the LORD God of Israel,
under whose (e) wings thou art come to trust.



(e) Signifying, that she would never lack anything, if she put her trust in God, and lived under his
protection.
#BCV:Ruth 2:14
<h3><verse=Ruth 2:14>Ruth 2:14</verse></h3>

<page=562>And Boaz said unto her, At mealtime come thou hither, and eat of the bread, and dip thy morsel in
the vinegar. And she sat beside the reapers: and he reached her parched [corn], and she did eat, and
was sufficed, and (f) left.



(f) Which she brought home to her mother in law.
#BCV:Ruth 2:18
<h3><verse=Ruth 2:18>Ruth 2:18</verse></h3>



And she took [it] up, and went into the city: and her mother in law saw what she had gleaned: and
she [g brought forth, and gave to her that she had reserved after she was sufficed.



(g) That is, from her bag, as it is in the Chaldee text.
#BCV:Ruth 2:20
<h3><verse=Ruth 2:20>Ruth 2:20</verse></h3>



And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed [be] he of the LORD, who hath not left off his
kindness to the living and to the (h) dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man [is] near of kin unto
us, one of our next kinsmen.



(h) To my husband and children, when they were alive, and now to us.

<h2>Ruth 3</h2>

#BCV:Ruth 3:1
<h3><verse=Ruth 3:1>Ruth 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=563>Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek (a) rest for thee, that it
may be well with thee?



(a) Meaning that she would provide her with a husband, with whom she might live peacefully.
#BCV:Ruth 3:3
<h3><verse=Ruth 3:3>Ruth 3:3</verse></h3>



Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the
floor: [but] make not thyself known unto the (b) man, until he shall have done eating and drinking.



(b) Boaz, nor yet any other.
#BCV:Ruth 3:7
<h3><verse=Ruth 3:7>Ruth 3:7</verse></h3>



And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his (c) heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of
the heap of corn: and she came softly, and uncovered his feet, and laid her down.



(c) That is, he had refreshed himself among his servants.
#BCV:Ruth 3:10
<h3><verse=Ruth 3:10>Ruth 3:10</verse></h3>



And he said, Blessed [be] thou of the LORD, my daughter: [for] thou hast (d) shewed more
kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men,
whether poor or rich.



(d) You showed yourself repeatedly to be more virtuous.
#BCV:Ruth 3:13
<h3><verse=Ruth 3:13>Ruth 3:13</verse></h3>



Tarry this night, and it shall be in the morning, [that] if he (e) will perform unto thee the part of a
kinsman, well; let him do the kinsman's part: but if he will not do the part of a kinsman to thee,
then will I do the part of a kinsman to thee, [as] the LORD liveth: lie down until the morning.



(e) If he will take you to as his wife because of his relation by marriage, according to God's law,



(<bcv=Deu 25:5>Deu 25:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Ruth 3:16
<h3><verse=Ruth 3:16>Ruth 3:16</verse></h3>



And when she came to her mother in law, she said, (f) Who [art] thou, my daughter? And she told
her all that the man had done to her.

<page=564>(f) Believing by her returning home that he had not taken her as his wife, she was astonished.

<h2>Ruth 4</h2>

#BCV:Ruth 4:1
<h3><verse=Ruth 4:1>Ruth 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=565>Then went Boaz up to the (a) gate, and sat him down there: and, behold, the kinsman of whom
Boaz spake came by; unto whom he said, (b) Ho, such a one! turn aside, sit down here. And he
turned aside, and sat down.



(a) Which was the place of judgment.



(b) The Hebrews here use two words which have no proper meaning, but serve to denote a certain
person, as we would say, "Ho, so-and-so".
#BCV:Ruth 4:4
<h3><verse=Ruth 4:4>Ruth 4:4</verse></h3>



And I thought to advertise thee, saying, Buy [it] before the inhabitants, and before the elders of my
people. If thou wilt redeem [it], redeem [it]: but if thou wilt not redeem [it, then] tell me, that I may
know: for [there is] none to redeem [it] (c) beside thee; and I [am] after thee. And he said, I will
redeem [it].



(c) For you are the next of kin.
#BCV:Ruth 4:5
<h3><verse=Ruth 4:5>Ruth 4:5</verse></h3>



Then said Boaz, What day thou buyest the field of the hand of Naomi, thou must buy [it] also of
Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of the dead, to raise up the name of the dead upon his (d) inheritance.



(d) That his inheritance might bear his name that is dead.
#BCV:Ruth 4:7
<h3><verse=Ruth 4:7>Ruth 4:7</verse></h3>



Now this [was the manner] in former time in Israel concerning redeeming and concerning changing,
for to confirm all things; a man plucked off his shoe, and gave [it] to his neighbour: and this [was] a



(e) testimony in Israel.



(e) That he had resigned his right, (<bcv=Deu 25:9>Deu 25:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Ruth 4:10
<h3><verse=Ruth 4:10>Ruth 4:10</verse></h3>



Moreover Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of Mahlon, have I purchased to be my wife, to raise up the
name of the dead upon his inheritance, that the name of the dead be not cut off from among his
brethren, and from the gate of his (f) place: ye [are] witnesses this day.



(f) Or, of the city where he remained.
#BCV:Ruth 4:11
<h3><verse=Ruth 4:11>Ruth 4:11</verse></h3>

<page=566>And all the people that [were] in the gate, and the elders, said, [We are] witnesses. The LORD make
the woman that is come into thine house like Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house
of Israel: and do thou worthily in (g) Ephratah, and be famous in Bethlehem:



(g) Ephratah and Bethlehem are both one.
#BCV:Ruth 4:14
<h3><verse=Ruth 4:14>Ruth 4:14</verse></h3>



And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed [be] the LORD, which hath not left thee this day without
a kinsman, that (h) his name may be famous in Israel.



(h) He shall leave continual posterity.
#BCV:Ruth 4:15
<h3><verse=Ruth 4:15>Ruth 4:15</verse></h3>



And he shall be unto thee a restorer of [thy] life, and a nourisher of thine old age: for thy daughter
in law, which loveth thee, which is better to thee than (i) seven sons, hath born him.

(i) Meaning, many sons.
#BCV:Ruth 4:18
<h3><verse=Ruth 4:18>Ruth 4:18</verse></h3>

Now these [are] the generations of (k) Pharez: Pharez begat Hezron,

(k) This genealogy is brought in to prove that David by succession came from the house of Judah.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel)</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 1:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 1:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=567>Now there was a certain man of (a) Ramathaimzophim, of mount Ephraim, and his name [was]
Elkanah, the son of Jeroham, the son of Elihu, the son of Tohu, the son of Zuph, an Ephrathite:

The Argument - As God had ordained in (<bcv=Deu 17:14>Deu 17:14</bcv>), that when the Israelites entered the land of
Canaan, he would appoint a king for them: so here in the first book of Samuel the state of the
people under their first king Saul is declared. Not content with the order that God had temporarily
appointed for the government of his Church, they demanded a king, so that they might be as other
nations. As well they thought they would be better off, not because they could serve God better by it,
but because they would be under the safeguard of him who represented Jesus Christ the true
deliverer. Therefore God gave them a tyrant and a hypocrite to rule over them, so that they might
learn that a king is not sufficient to defend them, unless God by his power preserves and keeps them.
Therefore he punishes the ingratitude of his people, and sends them continual wars both at home
and abroad. Also, because Saul, whom God had given to the honour of a king out of nothing, did
not acknowledge God's mercy to him, but rather disobeyed the word of God and was not zealous
of his glory, he was removed from his estate by God, and David the true figure of Messiah was
placed in his stead. His patience, modesty, constancy, persecution by open enemies, feigned friends,
and deceitful flatterers, is left to the Church and to every member of it, as a pattern and example of
their state and calling.



(a) There were two Ramatus, so that in this city in mount Ephraim were Zophim, that is, the learned
men and prophets.
#BCV:1 Samuel 1:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 1:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 1:3</verse></h3>



And this man went up out of his city yearly to worship and to sacrifice unto the LORD of hosts in



(b) Shiloh. And the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, the priests of the LORD, [were] there.



(b) For the ark was there at that time.
#BCV:1 Samuel 1:5
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 1:5>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 1:5</verse></h3>



But unto Hannah he gave a worthy (c) portion; for he loved Hannah: but the LORD had shut up
her womb.



(c) Some read, a portion with a hearty cheer.
#BCV:1 Samuel 1:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 1:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 1:8</verse></h3>
Then said Elkanah her husband to her, Hannah, why weepest thou? and why eatest thou not? and
why is thy heart grieved? [am] not I better to thee than ten (d) sons?



(d) Let this comfort you, that I love you no less than if you had many children.
#BCV:1 Samuel 1:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 1:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 1:9</verse></h3>



So Hannah rose up after they had eaten in Shiloh, and after they had drunk. Now Eli the priest sat
upon a seat by a post of the (e) temple of the LORD.



(e) That is of the house where the ark was.
#BCV:1 Samuel 1:18
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 1:18>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 1:18</verse></h3>



And she said, Let thine handmaid find (f) grace in thy sight. So the woman went her way, and did eat,
and her countenance was no more [sad].



(f) That is, pray to the Lord for me.
#BCV:1 Samuel 1:19
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 1:19>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 1:19</verse></h3>



And they rose up in the morning early, and worshipped before the LORD, and returned, and came
to their house to Ramah: and Elkanah knew Hannah his wife; and the LORD (g) remembered her.



(g) According to her petition.
#BCV:1 Samuel 1:21
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 1:21>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 1:21</verse></h3>



And the man (h) Elkanah, and all his house, went up to offer unto the LORD the yearly sacrifice,
and his vow.



(h) This Elkanah was a Levite, (<bcv=1Ch 6:27>Ch1 6:27</bcv>), and as some write once a year they were accustomed to
appear before the Lord with their families.

#BCV:1 Samuel 1:23
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 1:23>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 1:23</verse></h3>



And Elkanah her husband said unto her, Do what seemeth thee good; tarry until thou have weaned
him; only the LORD establish his (i) word. So the woman abode, and gave her son suck until she
weaned him.



(i) Because her prayer took effect, therefore it was called the Lord's promise.
#BCV:1 Samuel 1:26
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 1:26>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 1:26</verse></h3>

And she said, Oh my lord, [as] thy (k) soul liveth, my lord, I [am] the woman that stood by thee here,
praying unto the LORD.



(k) That is, most certainly.
#BCV:1 Samuel 1:28
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 1:28>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 1:28</verse></h3>



Therefore also I have lent him to the LORD; as long as he liveth he shall be lent to the LORD. And
he (l) worshipped the LORD there.



(l) Meaning, Eli gave thanks to God for her.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 2</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 2:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:1>1 Samuel 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=570>And Hannah (a) prayed, and said, My heart rejoiceth in the LORD, mine (b) horn is exalted in the
LORD: my mouth is (c) enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation.

(a) After she had obtained a son by prayer she gave thanks.

(b) I have recovered strength and glory by the benefit of the Lord.

(c) I can answer them that criticize my barrenness.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:3</verse></h3>



Talk (d) no more so exceeding proudly; let [not] arrogancy come out of your mouth: for the LORD
[is] a God of knowledge, and by him actions are weighed.



(d) In that you condemn my barrenness, you show your pride against God.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:5
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:5>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:5</verse></h3>



[They that were] full have hired out themselves for (e) bread; and [they that were] hungry ceased: so
that the barren hath born seven; and she that hath many children is waxed feeble.



(e) They sell their labours for necessary food.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:8</verse></h3>



He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, [and] lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set [them]
among (f) princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth [are] the



(g) LORD'S, and he hath set the world upon them.



(f) He prefers to honour, and does according to his own will, though man's judgment is contrary.



(g) Therefore he may dispose all things according to his will.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:10
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:10>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:10</verse></h3>



The adversaries of the LORD shall be broken to pieces; out of heaven shall he thunder upon them:
the LORD shall judge the ends of the earth; and he shall give strength unto his (h) king, and exalt
the horn of his anointed.



(h) She grounded her prayer on Jesus Christ who was to come.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:11
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:11>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:11</verse></h3>

And Elkanah went to Ramah to his house. And the child did minister unto the (i) LORD before Eli
the priest.



(i) In all that Eli commanded him.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:12
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:12>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:12</verse></h3>



Now the sons of Eli [were] sons of Belial; they (k) knew not the LORD.



(k) That is, they neglected his ordinance.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:14
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:14>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:14</verse></h3>



And he struck [it] into the pan, or kettle, or caldron, or pot; (l) all that the fleshhook brought up the
priest took for himself. So they did in Shiloh unto all the Israelites that came thither.



(l) Transgressing the order appointed in the Law, (<bcv=Lev 7:31>Lev 7:31</bcv>), for their bellies sake.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:15
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:15>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:15</verse></h3>



Also before they burnt the (m) fat, the priest's servant came, and said to the man that sacrificed,
Give flesh to roast for the priest; for he will not have sodden flesh of thee, but raw.



(m) Which was commanded first to have been offered to God.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:16
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:16>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:16</verse></h3>



And [if] any man said unto him, Let them not fail to burn the fat presently, and [then] take [as much]
as thy soul (n) desireth; then he would answer him, [Nay]; but thou shalt give [it me] now: and if not,
I will take [it] by force.



(n) Not passing for their own profit, so that God might be served rightly.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:17
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:17>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:17</verse></h3>



Wherefore the sin of the young men was very great before the LORD: for men (o) abhorred the
offering of the LORD.



(o) Seeing the horrible abuse of it.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:22
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:22>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:22</verse></h3>

<page=572>Now Eli was very old, and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel; and how they lay with the
women that (p) assembled [at] the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.



(p) Which was (as the Hebrews write) after their travail, when they came to be purified, read <bcv=Exo 38:8>(Exo 38:8;</bcv><bcv=Lev 12:6> Lev 12:6</bcv>).

#BCV:1 Samuel 2:24
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:24>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:24</verse></h3>



Nay, my sons; for [it is] no good report that I hear: ye make the LORD'S people to (q) transgress.



(q) Because they contemn their duty to God, (<bcv=I Sa 2:17>Sa1 2:17</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:25
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:25>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:25</verse></h3>



If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the LORD, who
shall intreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the
LORD (r) would slay them.



(r) So that to obey good admonition is God's mercy, and to disobey them is his just judgment for sin.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:27
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:27>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:27</verse></h3>



And there came a man of God unto Eli, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Did I plainly
appear unto the house of thy (s) father, when they were in Egypt in Pharaoh's house?



(s) That is, Aaron.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:29
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:29>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:29</verse></h3>



Wherefore (t) kick ye at my sacrifice and at mine offering, which I have commanded [in my]
habitation; and honourest thy sons above me, to make yourselves fat with the chiefest of all the
offerings of Israel my people?



(t) Why have you contemned my sacrifices, and as it were trod them under foot?
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:30
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:30>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:30</verse></h3>



Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed [that] thy house, and the house of thy
father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, (u) Be it far from me; for them
that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.



(u) God's promises are only effective to those he gives faith to fear and obey him.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:31
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:31>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:31</verse></h3>

Behold, the days come, that I will cut off thine (x) arm, and the arm of thy father's house, that there
shall not be an old man in thine house.



(x) Thy power and authority.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:32
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:32>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:32</verse></h3>



And thou (y) shalt see an enemy [in my] habitation, in all [the wealth] which [God] shall give Israel:
and there shall not be an old man in thine house for ever.



(y) Your posterity will see the glory of the chief priest given to another, whom they will envy, 
(<bcv=1Kings 2:27>Kg1 2:27</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:35
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:35>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:35</verse></h3>



And I will raise me up a (z) faithful priest, [that] shall do according to [that] which [is] in mine heart
and in my mind: and I will build him a sure house; and he shall walk before mine anointed for ever.



(z) Meaning Zadok, who succeeded Abiathar, and was the figure of Christ.
#BCV:1 Samuel 2:36
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 2:36>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 2:36</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, [that] every one that is left in thine house shall come [and] (a) crouch to
him for a piece of silver and a morsel of bread, and shall say, Put me, I pray thee, into one of the
priests' offices, that I may eat a piece of bread.



(a) That is, will be inferior to him.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 3</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 3:1

<h3><verse=1 Samuel 3:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=574>And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD (a) before Eli. And the word of the LORD was (b)
precious in those days; [there was] no open vision.



(a) The Chaldee text reads "while Eli lived".



(b) Because there were very few prophets to declare it.
#BCV:1 Samuel 3:2
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 3:2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 3:2</verse></h3>



And it came to pass at that time, when Eli [was] laid down in his (c) place, and his eyes began to wax
dim, [that] he could not see;



(c) In the court next to the tabernacle.
#BCV:1 Samuel 3:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 3:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 3:3</verse></h3>



And ere the (d) lamp of God went out in the temple of the LORD, where the ark of God [was],
and Samuel was laid down [to sleep];



(d) That is, the lamps which burnt in the night.
#BCV:1 Samuel 3:4
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 3:4>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 3:4</verse></h3>



That the LORD (e) called Samuel: and he answered, Here [am] I.



(e) Josephus writes that Samuel was 12 years old when the Lord appeared to him.
#BCV:1 Samuel 3:7
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 3:7>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 3:7</verse></h3>



Now Samuel did not yet know (f) the LORD, neither was the word of the LORD yet revealed unto
him.



(f) By vision.
#BCV:1 Samuel 3:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 3:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 3:8</verse></h3>



And the LORD called Samuel again the third time. And he arose and went to Eli, and said, Here [am]
I; for thou didst call me. And Eli (g) perceived that the LORD had called the child.



(g) Such was the corruption of those times that the chief priest had become dull and negligent to
understand the Lord's appearing.
#BCV:1 Samuel 3:11
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 3:11>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 3:11</verse></h3>

<page=575>And the LORD said to Samuel, Behold, I will do a thing in Israel, at which both the ears of every
one that heareth it shall (h) tingle.



(h) God declares that sudden fear will come on men when they hear that the ark is taken, and see
Eli's house destroyed.
#BCV:1 Samuel 3:14
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 3:14>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 3:14</verse></h3>



And therefore I have sworn unto the house of Eli, that the iniquity of Eli's house shall not be
purged with sacrifice nor offering for (i) ever.



(i) Meaning that his posterity would never enjoy the chief priests office.
#BCV:1 Samuel 3:17
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 3:17>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 3:17</verse></h3>



And he said, What [is] the thing that [the LORD] hath said unto thee? I pray thee hide [it] not from
me: God (k) do so to thee, and more also, if thou hide [any] thing from me of all the things that he
said unto thee.



(k) God punish you after this and that sort, unless you tell me the truth, (<bcv=Ruth 1:17>Rut 1:17</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 3:19
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 3:19>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 3:19</verse></h3>



And Samuel grew, and the LORD was with him, and did let none of his words (l) fall to the ground.



(l) The Lord accomplished whatever he had said.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 4</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 4:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 4:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 4:3</verse></h3>

<page=576>And when the people were come into the camp, the elders of Israel said, (a) Wherefore hath the
LORD smitten us to day before the Philistines? Let us fetch the ark of the covenant of the LORD
out of Shiloh unto us, that, when it cometh among us, it may save us out of the hand of our
enemies.



(a) For it seems that this war was undertaken by Samuel's commandment.
#BCV:1 Samuel 4:4
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 4:4>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 4:4</verse></h3>



So the people sent to Shiloh, that they might bring from thence the ark of the covenant of the
LORD of hosts, which (b) dwelleth [between] the cherubims: and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and
Phinehas, [were] there with the ark of the covenant of God.



(b) For he used to appear to the Israelites between the cherubim over the ark of the covenant, <bcv=Exo 25:17>(Exo 25:17).</bcv>

#BCV:1 Samuel 4:7
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 4:7>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 4:7</verse></h3>



And the Philistines were afraid, for they said, God is come into the camp. And they said, (c) Woe
unto us! for there hath not been such a thing heretofore.



(c) Before we fought against men, and now God has come to fight against us.
#BCV:1 Samuel 4:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 4:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 4:8</verse></h3>



Woe unto us! who shall deliver us out of the hand of these mighty Gods? these [are] the Gods that
smote the Egyptians with all the plagues in the (d) wilderness.



(d) For in the Red Sea in the wilderness the Egyptians were destroyed, which was the last of all his
plagues.
#BCV:1 Samuel 4:10
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 4:10>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 4:10</verse></h3>



And the Philistines fought, and Israel was smitten, and they fled every man into his tent: and there
was a very great slaughter; for there fell of Israel (e) thirty thousand footmen.



(e) David alluding to this place in (<bcv=Psa 78:63>Psa 78:63</bcv>) says they were consumed with fire: meaning they were
suddenly destroyed.
#BCV:1 Samuel 4:12
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 4:12>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 4:12</verse></h3>

And there ran a man of Benjamin out of the army, and came to Shiloh the same day with his clothes



(f) rent, and with earth upon his head.



(f) In token of sorrow and mourning.
#BCV:1 Samuel 4:13
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 4:13>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 4:13</verse></h3>



And when he came, lo, Eli sat upon a seat by the wayside watching: for his heart (g) trembled for the
ark of God. And when the man came into the city, and told [it], all the city cried out.



(g) Lest it should be taken by the enemy.
#BCV:1 Samuel 4:17
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 4:17>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 4:17</verse></h3>



And the messenger answered and said, Israel is fled before the Philistines, and there hath been also a
great slaughter among the people, and thy two sons also, Hophni and Phinehas, (b) are dead, and the
ark of God is taken.



(b) According as God had said before.
#BCV:1 Samuel 4:19
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 4:19>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 4:19</verse></h3>



And his daughter in law, Phinehas' wife, was with child, [near] to be delivered: and when she heard
the tidings that the ark of God was taken, and that her father in law and her husband were dead, she



(i) bowed herself and travailed; for her pains came upon her.



(i) And positioned her body for her labour and delivery.
#BCV:1 Samuel 4:22
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 4:22>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 4:22</verse></h3>



And she said, (k) The glory is departed from Israel: for the ark of God is taken.



(k) She uttered her great sorrow by repeating her words.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 5</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 5:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 5:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=578>And the Philistines took the ark of God, and brought it from Ebenezer unto (a) Ashdod.



(a) Which was one of the five principal cities of the Philistines.
#BCV:1 Samuel 5:2
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 5:2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 5:2</verse></h3>



When the Philistines took the ark of God, they brought it into the house of (b) Dagon, and set it by
Dagon.



(b) Which was their chief idol, and as some write, from the navel downward was like a fish, and
upward like a man.
#BCV:1 Samuel 5:5
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 5:5>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 5:5</verse></h3>



Therefore neither the priests of Dagon, nor any that come into Dagon's house, (c) tread on the
threshold of Dagon in Ashdod unto this day.



(c) Thus instead of acknowledging the true God by this miracle, they fall into greater superstition.
#BCV:1 Samuel 5:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 5:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 5:8</verse></h3>



They sent therefore and gathered all the lords of the Philistines unto them, and said, (d) What shall
we do with the ark of the God of Israel? And they answered, Let the ark of the God of Israel be
carried about unto Gath. And they carried the ark of the God of Israel about [thither].



(d) Though they had felt God's power and were afraid of it, yet they tried him even further, which
God turned to their destruction and his glory.
#BCV:1 Samuel 5:11
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 5:11>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 5:11</verse></h3>



So they sent and gathered together all the lords of the Philistines, and said, Send (e) away the ark of
the God of Israel, and let it go again to his own place, that it slay us not, and our people: for there
was a deadly destruction throughout all the city; the hand of God was very heavy there.



(e) The wicked when they feel the hand of God, grudge and reject him, where the godly humble
themselves, and cry for mercy.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 6</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 6:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 6:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=579>And the ark of the LORD was in the country of the Philistines (a) seven months.



(a) They thought by continuance of time the plague would have ceased, and so would have kept the
ark still.
#BCV:1 Samuel 6:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 6:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 6:3</verse></h3>



And they said, If ye send away the ark of the God of Israel, send it not empty; but in any wise
return him (b) a trespass offering: then ye shall be healed, and it shall be known to you why his hand
is not removed from you.



(b) The idolaters confess there is a true God, who punishes sin justly.
#BCV:1 Samuel 6:5
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 6:5>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 6:5</verse></h3>



Wherefore ye shall make images of your emerods, and images of your mice that mar the land; and
ye shall give glory unto the God of Israel: peradventure he will lighten his hand from off you, and
from off your (c) gods, and from off your land.



(c) This is God's judgment on the idolaters, that knowing the true God, they do not worship him
correctly.
#BCV:1 Samuel 6:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 6:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 6:8</verse></h3>



And take the ark of the LORD, and lay it upon the cart; and put the (d) jewels of gold, which ye
return him [for] a trespass offering, in a coffer by the side thereof; and send it away, that it may go.



(d) Meaning, the golden emerods and the golden mice.
#BCV:1 Samuel 6:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 6:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 6:9</verse></h3>



And see, if it goeth up by the way of his own coast to Bethshemesh, [then] (e) he hath done us this
great evil: but if not, then we shall know that [it is] not his hand [that] smote us: it [was] a (f) chance
[that] happened to us.



(e) The God of Israel.



(f) The wicked attribute almost all things to fortune and chance, whereas indeed there is nothing
done without God's providence and decree.

#BCV:1 Samuel 6:12
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 6:12>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 6:12</verse></h3>

And the kine took the straight way to the way of Bethshemesh, [and] went along the highway, lowing
as they went, and turned not aside [to] the right hand or [to] the left; and the lords of the Philistines
went after (g) them unto the border of Bethshemesh.



(g) For the trial of the matter.
#BCV:1 Samuel 6:14
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 6:14>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 6:14</verse></h3>



And the cart came into the field of Joshua, a Bethshemite, and stood there, where [there was] a great
stone: and (h) they clave the wood of the cart, and offered the kine a burnt offering unto the LORD.



(h) That is, the men of Bethshemesh, who were Israelites.
#BCV:1 Samuel 6:17
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 6:17>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 6:17</verse></h3>



And these [are] the golden emerods which the Philistines returned [for] a trespass offering unto the
LORD; for (i) Ashdod one, for Gaza one, for Askelon one, for Gath one, for Ekron one;



(i) These were the five principal cities of the Philistines, which were not all conquered to the time of
David.
#BCV:1 Samuel 6:19
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 6:19>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 6:19</verse></h3>



And he smote the men of Bethshemesh, because they (k) had looked into the ark of the LORD,
even he smote of the people fifty thousand and threescore and ten men: and the people lamented,
because the LORD had smitten [many] of the people with a great slaughter.



(k) For it was not lawful for anyone either to touch or to see it, only to Aaron and his sons (Num
4:15,<bcv=Num 4:20> Num 4:20</bcv>).

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 7</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 7:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 7:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=581>And the men of (a) Kirjathjearim came, and fetched up the ark of the LORD, and brought it into
the house of Abinadab in the hill, and sanctified Eleazar his son to keep the ark of the LORD.



(a) A city in the tribe of Judah, called also Kirjathbaal, in (<bcv=Jos 15:60>Jos 15:60</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 7:2
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 7:2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 7:2</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, while the ark abode in Kirjathjearim, that the time was long; for it was twenty
years: and all the house of Israel lamented (b) after the LORD.



(b) Lamented for their sins, and followed the Lord.
#BCV:1 Samuel 7:5
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 7:5>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 7:5</verse></h3>



And Samuel said, Gather all Israel to (c) Mizpeh, and I will pray for you unto the LORD.



(c) For Shiloh was now desolate, because the Philistines had taken the ark from it.
#BCV:1 Samuel 7:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 7:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 7:6</verse></h3>



And they gathered together to Mizpeh, and (d) drew water, and poured [it] out before the LORD,
and fasted on that day, and said there, We have sinned against the LORD. And Samuel judged the
children of Israel in Mizpeh.



(d) The Chaldee text says that they drew water out of their heart: that is, wept abundantly for their
sins.
#BCV:1 Samuel 7:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 7:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 7:8</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel said to Samuel, Cease not to (e) cry unto the LORD our God for us, that
he will save us out of the hand of the Philistines.



(e) Signifying that in the prayers of the godly, there should be a vehement zeal.
#BCV:1 Samuel 7:10
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 7:10>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 7:10</verse></h3>



And as Samuel was offering up the burnt offering, the Philistines drew near to battle against Israel:
but the LORD (f) thundered with a great thunder on that day upon the Philistines, and discomfited
them; and they were smitten before Israel.

<page=582>(f) According to the prophecy of Hannah Samuel's mother, (<bcv=1Sam 2:10>Sa1 2:10</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 7:12
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 7:12>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 7:12</verse></h3>



Then Samuel took a stone, and set [it] between Mizpeh and (g) Shen, and called the name of it
Ebenezer, saying, Hitherto hath the LORD helped us.



(g) Which was a great rock over against Mizpeh.
#BCV:1 Samuel 7:14
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 7:14>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 7:14</verse></h3>



And the cities which the Philistines had taken from Israel were restored to Israel, from Ekron even
unto Gath; and the coasts thereof did Israel deliver out of the hands of the Philistines. And there
was peace between Israel and the (h) Amorites.



(h) Meaning, the Philistines.
#BCV:1 Samuel 7:17
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 7:17>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 7:17</verse></h3>



And his return [was] to Ramah; for there [was] his house; and there he judged Israel; and there he
built an (i) altar unto the LORD.



(i) Which was not contrary to the Law: for as yet a certain place was not appointed.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 8</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 8:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 8:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=583>And it came to pass, when Samuel was old, that he (a) made his sons judges over Israel.



(a) Because he was not able to bear the charge.
#BCV:1 Samuel 8:2
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 8:2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 8:2</verse></h3>



Now the name of his firstborn was (b) Joel; and the name of his second, Abiah: [they were] judges
in Beersheba.



(b) Who was also called Vashni, (<bcv=1Ch 6:28>Ch1 6:28</bcv>).

#BCV:1 Samuel 8:4
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 8:4>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 8:4</verse></h3>



Then all the elders of Israel gathered themselves together, and came to Samuel unto (c) Ramah,



(c) For there his house was, (<bcv=I Sa 7:17>Sa1 7:17</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 8:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 8:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 8:6</verse></h3>



But the thing (d) displeased Samuel, when they said, Give us a king to judge us. And Samuel prayed
unto the LORD.



(d) Because they were not content with the order that God had appointed, but would be governed as
the Gentiles were.
#BCV:1 Samuel 8:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 8:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 8:9</verse></h3>



Now therefore hearken unto their voice: howbeit yet (e) protest solemnly unto them, and shew them
the manner of the king that shall reign over them.



(e) To prove if they will forsake their wicked purpose.
#BCV:1 Samuel 8:11
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 8:11>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 8:11</verse></h3>



And he said, This will be the (f) manner of the king that shall reign over you: He will take your sons,
and appoint [them] for himself, for his chariots, and [to be] his horsemen; and [some] shall run
before his chariots.



(f) Not that kings have this authority by their office, but that such as reign in God's wrath would
usurp this over their brethren, contrary to the law, (<bcv=Deu 17:20>Deu 17:20</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 8:18
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 8:18>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 8:18</verse></h3>

<page=584>And ye shall cry out in that day because of your king which ye shall have chosen you; and the
LORD will not (g) hear you in that day.



(g) Because you do not repent for your sins, but because you long for your afflictions, into which
you cast yourselves willingly.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 9</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 9:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 9:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=585>Now there was a man of Benjamin, whose name [was] Kish, the son of Abiel, the son of Zeror, the
son of Bechorath, the son of Aphiah, a Benjamite, a (a) mighty man of power.



(a) That is, both valiant and rich.
#BCV:1 Samuel 9:2
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 9:2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 9:2</verse></h3>



And he had a son, whose name [was] Saul, a (b) choice young man, and a goodly: and [there was] not
among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he: from his shoulders and upward [he was]
higher than any of the people.



(b) So that it might seem that God approved their request in appointing such a person.
#BCV:1 Samuel 9:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 9:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 9:3</verse></h3>



And the asses of Kish Saul's father were lost. And Kish said to Saul his son, Take now one of the
servants with thee, and arise, go (c) seek the asses.



(c) All these circumstances were means to serve God's providence, by which Saul (though not
approved by God) was made king.
#BCV:1 Samuel 9:5
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 9:5>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 9:5</verse></h3>



[And] when they were come to the land of (d) Zuph, Saul said to his servant that [was] with him,
Come, and let us return; lest my father leave [caring] for the asses, and take thought for us.



(d) Where was Ramath Zophim, the city of Samuel.
#BCV:1 Samuel 9:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 9:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 9:8</verse></h3>



And the servant answered Saul again, and said, Behold, I have here at hand the fourth part of a (e)
shekel of silver: [that] will I give to the man of God, to tell us our way.



(e) Which is about five pence, read (<bcv=Gen 23:15>Gen 23:15</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 9:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 9:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 9:9</verse></h3>




(Beforetime in Israel, when a man went to enquire of God, thus he spake, Come, and let us go to
the (f) seer: for [he that is] now [called] a Prophet was beforetime called a Seer.)

<page=586>(f) So called because he foresaw things to come.
#BCV:1 Samuel 9:12
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 9:12>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 9:12</verse></h3>



And they answered them, and said, He is; behold, [he is] before you: make haste now, for he came to
day to the city; for [there is] a (g) sacrifice of the people to day in the high place:



(g) That is, a feast after the offering, which would be kept in a high place of the city appointed for
that use.
#BCV:1 Samuel 9:13
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 9:13>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 9:13</verse></h3>



As soon as ye be come into the city, ye shall straightway find him, before he go up to the high place
to eat: for the people will not eat until he come, because he doth (h) bless the sacrifice; [and]
afterwards they eat that be bidden. Now therefore get you up; for about this time ye shall find him.



(h) That is, give thanks and distribute the meat according to their custom.
#BCV:1 Samuel 9:16
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 9:16>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 9:16</verse></h3>



To morrow about this time I will send thee a man out of the land of Benjamin, and thou shalt
anoint him [to be] captain over my people Israel, that he may (i) save my people out of the hand of
the Philistines: for I have looked upon my people, because their cry is come unto me.



(i) Despite their wickedness, yet God was ever mindful of his inheritance.
#BCV:1 Samuel 9:19
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 9:19>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 9:19</verse></h3>



And Samuel answered Saul, and said, I [am] the seer: go up before me unto the high place; for ye
shall eat with me to day, and to morrow I will let thee go, and will tell thee all that [is] in thine (k)
heart.



(k) Meaning, all that you desire to know.
#BCV:1 Samuel 9:20
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 9:20>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 9:20</verse></h3>



And as for thine asses that were lost three days ago, set not thy mind on them; for they are found.
And (l) on whom [is] all the desire of Israel? [Is it] not on thee, and on all thy father's house?



(l) Whom does Israel desire to be their king, but thee?
#BCV:1 Samuel 9:22
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 9:22>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 9:22</verse></h3>

<page=587>And Samuel took Saul and his servant, and brought them into the (m) parlour, and made them sit in
the chiefest place among them that were bidden, which [were] about thirty persons.



(m) Where the feast was.
#BCV:1 Samuel 9:24
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 9:24>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 9:24</verse></h3>



And the cook took up the shoulder, and [that] which [was] (n) upon it, and set [it] before Saul. And
[Samuel] said, Behold that which is left! set [it] before thee, [and] eat: for unto this time hath it been
kept for thee since I said, I (o) have invited the people. So Saul did eat with Samuel that day.



(n) That is, the shoulder with the breast, which the priest had for his family in all peace offerings,



(<bcv=Lev 10:14>Lev 10:14</bcv>)



(o) That both by the assembling of the people, and by the meat prepared for you, you might
understand that I knew of your coming.
#BCV:1 Samuel 9:26
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 9:26>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 9:26</verse></h3>



And they arose early: and it came to pass about the spring of the day, that Samuel called Saul to the



(p) top of the house, saying, Up, that I may send thee away. And Saul arose, and they went out both
of them, he and Samuel, abroad.



(p) To speak with him secretly: for the houses were flat above.
#BCV:1 Samuel 9:27
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 9:27>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 9:27</verse></h3>



[And] as they were going down to the end of the city, Samuel said to Saul, Bid the servant pass on
before us, (and he passed on,) but stand thou still a while, that I may shew thee (q) the word of God.



(q) God's commandment concerning you.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 10</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 10:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 10:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=588>Then Samuel took a vial of (a) oil, and poured [it] upon his head, and kissed him, and said, [Is it] not
because the LORD hath anointed thee [to be] captain over his inheritance?



(a) In the Law this anointing signified the gifts of the Holy Spirit, which were necessary for those
who would rule.
#BCV:1 Samuel 10:2
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 10:2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 10:2</verse></h3>



When thou art departed from me to day, then thou shalt find two men by Rachel's sepulchre in the
border of Benjamin at Zelzah; and they will say unto thee, The (b) asses which thou wentest to seek
are found: and, lo, thy father hath left the care of the asses, and sorroweth for you, saying, What
shall I do for my son?



(b) Samuel confirms him by these signs, that God has appointed him king.
#BCV:1 Samuel 10:5
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 10:5>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 10:5</verse></h3>



After that thou shalt come to the (c) hill of God, where [is] the garrison of the Philistines: and it
shall come to pass, when thou art come thither to the city, that thou shalt meet a company of
prophets coming down from the high place with a psaltery, and a tabret, and a pipe, and a harp,
before them; and they shall prophesy:



(c) Which was a high place in the city Kirjath-jearim, where the ark was, (<bcv=I Sa 7:2>Sa1 7:2</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 10:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 10:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 10:9</verse></h3>



And it was [so], that when he had turned his back to go from Samuel, God gave him another (d)
heart: and all those signs came to pass that day.



(d) He gave him such virtues as were fitting for a king.
#BCV:1 Samuel 10:12
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 10:12>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 10:12</verse></h3>



And one of the same place answered and said, But who [is] their (e) father? Therefore it became a
proverb, [Is] Saul also among the (f) prophets?



(e) Meaning, that prophecy comes not by succession, but is given to whom it pleases God.



(f) Noting by it him that from low degree comes suddenly to honour.

#BCV:1 Samuel 10:17
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 10:17>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 10:17</verse></h3>

And Samuel (g) called the people together unto the LORD to Mizpeh;



(g) Both to declare to them their fault in asking a king, and also to show God's sentence in it.
#BCV:1 Samuel 10:20
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 10:20>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 10:20</verse></h3>



And when Samuel had caused all the tribes of Israel to come near, the tribe of Benjamin was (h)
taken.



(h) That is, by casting of lot.
#BCV:1 Samuel 10:22
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 10:22>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 10:22</verse></h3>



Therefore they enquired of the LORD further, if the man should yet come thither. And the LORD
answered, Behold, he (i) hath hid himself among the stuff.



(i) As though he were unworthy and unwilling.
#BCV:1 Samuel 10:25
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 10:25>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 10:25</verse></h3>



Then Samuel told the people (k) the manner of the kingdom, and wrote [it] in a book, and laid [it]
up before the LORD. And Samuel sent all the people away, every man to his house.



(k) As it is written in (<bcv=Deu 17:15>Deu 17:15</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 10:27
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 10:27>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 10:27</verse></h3>



But the children of Belial said, How shall this man save us? And they despised him, and brought
him no presents. But he (l) held his peace.



(l) Both to avoid disputing and also to win them by patience.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 11</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 11:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 11:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=590>Then Nahash the Ammonite (a) came up, and encamped against Jabeshgilead: and all the men of
Jabesh said unto Nahash, Make a covenant with us, and we will serve thee.



(a) After that Saul was chosen king: for fear of whom they asked a king, as in (<bcv=I Sa 12:12>Sa1 12:12</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 11:2
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 11:2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 11:2</verse></h3>



And Nahash the Ammonite answered them, On this [condition] will I make [a covenant] with you,
that I may thrust out all your (b) right eyes, and lay it [for] a reproach upon all Israel.



(b) This declares that the closer the tyrants are to their destruction, the more cruel they are.
#BCV:1 Samuel 11:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 11:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 11:6</verse></h3>



And the Spirit of God (c) came upon Saul when he heard those tidings, and his anger was kindled
greatly.



(c) God gave him the spirit of strength and courage to go against this tyrant.
#BCV:1 Samuel 11:7
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 11:7>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 11:7</verse></h3>



And he took a yoke of oxen, and hewed them in pieces, and sent [them] throughout all the coasts of
Israel by the hands of messengers, saying, Whosoever cometh not forth after Saul and after (d)
Samuel, so shall it be done unto his oxen. And the fear of the LORD fell on the people, and they
came out with one consent.



(d) He adds Samuel because Saul was not yet approved by all.
#BCV:1 Samuel 11:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 11:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 11:9</verse></h3>



And (e) they said unto the messengers that came, Thus shall ye say unto the men of Jabeshgilead, To
morrow, by [that time] the sun be hot, ye shall have help. And the messengers came and shewed [it]
to the men of Jabesh; and they were glad.



(e) Meaning, Saul and Samuel.
#BCV:1 Samuel 11:10
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 11:10>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 11:10</verse></h3>



Therefore the men of Jabesh said, To morrow we will come out unto (f) you, and ye shall do with us
all that seemeth good unto you.

<page=591>(f) That is, to the Ammonites, concealing that they had hope of aid.
#BCV:1 Samuel 11:12
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 11:12>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 11:12</verse></h3>



And the people said unto Samuel, (g) Who [is] he that said, Shall Saul reign over us? bring the men,
that we may put them to death.



(g) By this victory the Lord won the hearts of the people to Saul.
#BCV:1 Samuel 11:13
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 11:13>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 11:13</verse></h3>



And Saul said, There shall not a man be (h) put to death this day: for to day the LORD hath
wrought salvation in Israel.



(h) By showing mercy he thought to overcome their malice.
#BCV:1 Samuel 11:15
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 11:15>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 11:15</verse></h3>



And all the people went to Gilgal; and there they made Saul king before the LORD in Gilgal; and
there they sacrificed sacrifices of (i) peace offerings before the LORD; and there Saul and all the
men of Israel rejoiced greatly.



(i) In sign of thanksgiving for the victory.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 12</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 12:1
<h2>1 Samuel 12:1</h2>

<page=592>And Samuel said unto all Israel, Behold, I have (a) hearkened unto your voice in all that ye said unto
me, and have made a king over you.



(a) I have granted your petition.
#BCV:1 Samuel 12:2
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 12:2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 12:2</verse></h3>



And now, behold, the king walketh (b) before you: and I am old and grayheaded; and, behold, my
sons [are] with you: and I have walked before you from my childhood unto this day.



(b) To govern you in peace and war.
#BCV:1 Samuel 12:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 12:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 12:3</verse></h3>



Behold, here I [am]: witness against me before the LORD, and before his anointed: (c) whose ox
have I taken? or whose ass have I taken? or whom have I defrauded? whom have I oppressed? or of
whose hand have I received [any] bribe to blind mine eyes therewith? and I will restore it you.



(c) God would have this confession be a pattern for all who have any charge or office.
#BCV:1 Samuel 12:5
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 12:5>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 12:5</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, The LORD [is] witness against you, and his (d) anointed [is] witness this day,
that ye have not found ought in my hand. And they answered, [He is] witness.



(d) Your King, who is anointed by the commandment of the Lord.
#BCV:1 Samuel 12:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 12:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 12:9</verse></h3>



And when they forgat the LORD their God, he sold them into the hand of Sisera, (e) captain of the
host of Hazor, and into the hand of the Philistines, and into the hand of the king of Moab, and
they fought against them.



(e) Captain of Jabin's host, king of Hazor.
#BCV:1 Samuel 12:11
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 12:11>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 12:11</verse></h3>



And the LORD sent Jerubbaal, (f) and Bedan, and Jephthah, and Samuel, and delivered you out of
the hand of your enemies on every side, and ye dwelled safe.

<page=593>(f) That is Samson, <bcv=Jdg 13:25>(Jdg 13:25).</bcv>

#BCV:1 Samuel 12:12
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 12:12>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 12:12</verse></h3>



And when ye saw that Nahash the king of the children of Ammon came against you, ye said unto
me, (g) Nay; but a king shall reign over us: when the LORD your God [was] your king.



(g) Leaving God to seek the help of man, (<bcv=I Sa 8:5>Sa1 8:5</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 12:14
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 12:14>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 12:14</verse></h3>



If ye will fear the LORD, and serve him, and obey his voice, and not rebel against the
commandment of the LORD, then shall both ye and also the king that reigneth over you continue



(h) following the LORD your God:



(h) You shall be preserved as they that follow the Lord's will.
#BCV:1 Samuel 12:15
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 12:15>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 12:15</verse></h3>



But if ye will not obey the voice of the LORD, but rebel against the commandment of the LORD,
then shall the hand of the LORD be against you, as [it was] against your (i) fathers.



(i) Meaning, the governors.
#BCV:1 Samuel 12:17
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 12:17>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 12:17</verse></h3>



[Is it] not wheat harvest to day? I will call unto the LORD, and he shall send thunder and rain; that
ye may perceive and see that your wickedness [is] (k) great, which ye have done in the sight of the
LORD, in asking you a king.



(k) In that you have forsaken him, who has all power in his hand, for a mortal man.
#BCV:1 Samuel 12:19
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 12:19>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 12:19</verse></h3>



And all the people said unto Samuel, Pray for thy servants unto the LORD thy God, that we die not:
for we have added unto (l) all our sins [this] evil, to ask us a king.



(l) Not only at other times, but now chiefly.
#BCV:1 Samuel 12:20
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 12:20>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 12:20</verse></h3>



And Samuel said unto the people, Fear not: ye have done all this wickedness: (m) yet turn not aside
from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart;

<page=594>(m) He shows that there is no sin so great, but it shall be forgiven, if the sinner turn again to God.
#BCV:1 Samuel 12:22
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 12:22>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 12:22</verse></h3>



For the LORD will not forsake his people for his great name's sake: because it hath pleased the
LORD to make you (n) his people.



(n) Of his free mercy, and not of your merits, and therefore he will not forsake you.
#BCV:1 Samuel 12:24
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 12:24>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 12:24</verse></h3>



Only fear the LORD, and serve him in truth with all your (o) heart: for consider how great [things]
he hath done for you.



(o) Unfeignedly, and without hypocrisy.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 13</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 13:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 13:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=595>Saul reigned (a) one year; and when he had reigned (b) two years over Israel,



(a) While these things were done.



(b) Before he took upon himself the state of a king.
#BCV:1 Samuel 13:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 13:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 13:3</verse></h3>



And Jonathan smote the garrison of the Philistines that [was] in (c) Geba, and the Philistines heard
[of it]. And Saul blew the (d) trumpet throughout all the land, saying, Let the Hebrews hear.



(c) Of Kirjath-jearim, where the ark was, (<bcv=I Sa 10:5>Sa1 10:5</bcv>).



(d) That everyone should prepare themselves to fight.
#BCV:1 Samuel 13:5
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 13:5>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 13:5</verse></h3>



And the Philistines gathered themselves together to fight with Israel, thirty thousand chariots, and
six thousand horsemen, and people as the sand which [is] on the sea shore in multitude: and they
came up, and pitched in Michmash, eastward from (e) Bethaven.



(e) Which was also called Beth-el, in the tribe of Benjamin.
#BCV:1 Samuel 13:7
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 13:7>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 13:7</verse></h3>



And [some of] the Hebrews went over Jordan to the land of (f) Gad and Gilead. As for Saul, he [was]
yet in Gilgal, and all the people followed him trembling.



(f) Where the two tribes and the half remained.
#BCV:1 Samuel 13:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 13:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 13:8</verse></h3>



And he tarried seven days, according to the set time that Samuel [had appointed]: but Samuel came
not to Gilgal; and the people were (g) scattered from him.



(g) Thinking that the absence of the prophet was a sign, that they would lose the victory.
#BCV:1 Samuel 13:11
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 13:11>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 13:11</verse></h3>

<page=596>And Samuel said, What hast thou done? And Saul said, Because I saw that the people were (h)
scattered from me, and [that] thou camest not within the days appointed, and [that] the Philistines
gathered themselves together at Michmash;



(h) Though these causes seem sufficient in man's judgment: yet because they had not the word of
God, they turned to his destruction.
#BCV:1 Samuel 13:13
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 13:13>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 13:13</verse></h3>



And Samuel said to Saul, Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the
LORD thy (i) God, which he commanded thee: for now would the LORD have established thy
kingdom upon Israel for ever.



(i) Who willed you to obey him, and rest on the words spoken by his prophet.
#BCV:1 Samuel 13:14
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 13:14>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 13:14</verse></h3>



But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the LORD hath sought him a (k) man after his own heart,
and the LORD hath commanded him [to be] captain over his people, because thou hast not kept
[that] which the LORD commanded thee.



(k) That is, David.
#BCV:1 Samuel 13:15
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 13:15>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 13:15</verse></h3>



And Samuel arose, and gat him up from Gilgal unto (l) Gibeah of Benjamin. And Saul numbered
the people [that were] present with him, about six hundred men.



(l) And went to his city Ramah.
#BCV:1 Samuel 13:18
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 13:18>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 13:18</verse></h3>



And another company turned the way [to] Bethhoron: and (m) another company turned [to] the way
of the border that looketh to the valley of Zeboim toward the wilderness.



(m) So that to man's judgment these three armies would have overrun the whole country.
#BCV:1 Samuel 13:22
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 13:22>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 13:22</verse></h3>



So it came to pass in the day of battle, that there was neither (n) sword nor spear found in the hand
of any of the people that [were] with Saul and Jonathan: but with Saul and with Jonathan his son
was there found.



(n) To declare that the victory only came from God, and not by their force.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 14</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 14:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=597>Now it came to pass upon a day, that Jonathan the son of Saul said unto the young man that bare his
armour, (a) Come, and let us go over to the Philistines' garrison, that [is] on the other side. But he
told not his father.



(a) By this example God declared to Israel that the victory did not consist in multitude or armour,
but only because of his grace.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:6</verse></h3>



And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over unto the
garrison of these (b) uncircumcised: it may be that the LORD will work for us: for [there is] no
restraint to the LORD to save by many or by few.



(b) That is, the Philistines.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:7
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:7>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:7</verse></h3>



And his armourbearer said unto him, Do all that [is] in thine heart: turn thee; behold, (c) I [am] with
thee according to thy heart.



(c) I will follow you wherever you go.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:9</verse></h3>




(d) If they say thus unto us, Tarry until we come to you; then we will stand still in our place, and will
not go up unto them.



(d) This he spoke by the spirit of prophecy, and by this God gave him assurance of victory.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:11
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:11>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:11</verse></h3>



And both of them discovered themselves unto the garrison of the Philistines: and the Philistines
said, Behold, the Hebrews come forth out of the (e) holes where they had hid themselves.



(e) Thus they spoke contemptuously and by derision.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:13
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:13>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:13</verse></h3>



And Jonathan climbed up upon (f) his hands and upon his feet, and his armourbearer after him: and
they fell before Jonathan; and his armourbearer slew after him.

<page=598>(f) That is, he crept up, or went up with all haste.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:14
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:14>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:14</verse></h3>



And that (g) first slaughter, which Jonathan and his armourbearer made, was about twenty men,
within as it were an half acre of land, [which] a yoke [of oxen might plow].



(g) The second was when they slew one another, and the third when the Israelites chased them.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:15
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:15>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:15</verse></h3>



And there was trembling in the host, in the field, and among all the people: the garrison, and the
spoilers, they also trembled, and the earth (h) quaked: so it was a very great trembling.



(h) In that the insensible creatures tremble for fear of God's judgment, it declares how terrible his
vengeance will be against his enemies.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:19
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:19>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:19</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, while Saul talked unto the priest, that the noise that [was] in the host of the
Philistines went on and increased: and Saul said unto the priest, (i) Withdraw thine hand.



(i) Leave the Ephod alone, for I have no time now to ask counsel from God, (<bcv=Num 27:21>Num 27:21</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:21
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:21>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:21</verse></h3>



Moreover the Hebrews [that] were with the Philistines before that time, which went up with them
into the camp [from the country] round about, even they also [turned] to be with the (k) Israelites
that [were] with Saul and Jonathan.



(k) Though before for fear of the Philistines they declared themselves as enemies to their brethren.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:24
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:24>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:24</verse></h3>



And the men of Israel were distressed that day: for Saul had adjured the people, saying, (l) Cursed
[be] the man that eateth [any] food until evening, that I may be avenged on mine enemies. So none
of the people tasted [any] food.



(l) Such was his hypocrisy and arrogancy, that he thought to attribute to his policy that which God
had given by the hand of Jonathan.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:26
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:26>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:26</verse></h3>

<page=599>And when the people were come into the wood, behold, the honey dropped; but no man put his
hand to his mouth: for the people feared the (m) oath.



(m) That is, the punishment if they break their oath.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:27
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:27>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:27</verse></h3>



But Jonathan heard not when his father charged the people with the oath: wherefore he put forth
the end of the rod that [was] in his hand, and dipped it in an honeycomb, and put his hand to his
mouth; and his (n) eyes were enlightened.



(n) Which were dim before from weariness and hunger.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:29
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:29>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:29</verse></h3>



Then said Jonathan, My father hath (o) troubled the land: see, I pray you, how mine eyes have been
enlightened, because I tasted a little of this honey.



(o) By making this cruel law.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:33
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:33>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:33</verse></h3>



Then they told Saul, saying, Behold, the people sin against the LORD, in that they eat with the blood.
And he said, Ye have transgressed: (p) roll a great stone unto me this day.



(p) That the blood of the beast that shall be slain, may be pressed out upon it.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:36
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:36>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:36</verse></h3>



And Saul said, Let us go down after the Philistines by night, and spoil them until the morning light,
and let us not leave a man of them. And they said, Do whatsoever seemeth good unto thee. Then
said the priest, Let us (q) draw near hither unto God.



(q) To ask counsel from him.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:41
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:41>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:41</verse></h3>



Therefore Saul said unto the LORD God of Israel, Give (r) a perfect [lot]. And Saul and Jonathan
were taken: but the people escaped.



(r) Cause the lot to fall on him that has broken the oath, but he does not consider his presumption
in commanding the same oath.

#BCV:1 Samuel 14:45
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:45>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:45</verse></h3>

And the people said unto Saul, (s) Shall Jonathan die, who hath wrought this great salvation in Israel?
God forbid: [as] the LORD liveth, there shall not one hair of his head fall to the ground; for he hath
wrought with God this day. So the people rescued Jonathan, that he died not.



(s) The people thought it their duty to rescue him, who out of ignorance had broken a rash law, and
by whom they had received so great a benefit.
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:48
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:48>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:48</verse></h3>



And he gathered an host, and smote the (t) Amalekites, and delivered Israel out of the hands of
them that spoiled them.



(t) As the Lord had commanded, (<bcv=Deu 25:17>Deu 25:17</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:49
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:49>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:49</verse></h3>



Now the sons of Saul were Jonathan, (u) and Ishui, and Melchishua: and the names of his two
daughters [were these]; the name of the firstborn Merab, and the name of the younger (x) Michal:



(u) Called also Abinadab, (<bcv=I Sa 31:2>Sa1 31:2</bcv>).



(x) Who was the wife of David, (<bcv=I Sa 18:27>Sa1 18:27</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:50
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:50>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:50</verse></h3>



And the name of Saul's wife [was] Ahinoam, the daughter of Ahimaaz: and the name of the captain
of his host [was] (y) Abner, the son of Ner, Saul's uncle.



(y) Whom Joab, David's captain, slew (<bcv=II Sa 3:27>Sa2 3:27</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 14:52
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 14:52>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 14:52</verse></h3>



And there was sore war against the Philistines all the days of Saul: (z) and when Saul saw any strong
man, or any valiant man, he took him unto him.



(z) As Samuel had forewarned in (<bcv=I Sa 8:11>Sa1 8:11</bcv>).

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 15</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 15:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 15:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 15:1</verse></h3>

<page=601>Samuel also said unto Saul, The LORD sent me to anoint thee [to be] king over his people, over
Israel: now therefore (a) hearken thou unto the voice of the words of the LORD.



(a) Because he has preferred you to this honour, you are bound to obey him.
#BCV:1 Samuel 15:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 15:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 15:3</verse></h3>



Now go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not; but (b) slay
both man and woman, infant and suckling, ox and sheep, camel and ass.



(b) That this might be an example of God's vengeance against those who deal cruelly with his
people.
#BCV:1 Samuel 15:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 15:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 15:6</verse></h3>



And Saul said unto the (c) Kenites, Go, depart, get you down from among the Amalekites, lest I
destroy you with them: for ye shewed (d) kindness to all the children of Israel, when they came up
out of Egypt. So the Kenites departed from among the Amalekites.



(c) Which were the posterity of Jethro, Moses father in law.



(d) For Jethro came to visit them, and gave them good counsel, (<bcv=Exo 18:19>Exo 18:19</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 15:11
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 15:11>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 15:11</verse></h3>



It (e) repenteth me that I have set up Saul [to be] king: for he is turned back from following me, and
hath not performed my commandments. And it grieved Samuel; and he cried unto the LORD all
night.



(e) God in his eternal counsel never changes or repents, as in (<bcv=I Sa 15:29>Sa1 15:29</bcv>), though he seems to us to
repent when anything goes contrary to his temporal election.
#BCV:1 Samuel 15:13
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 15:13>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 15:13</verse></h3>



And Samuel came to Saul: and Saul said unto him, Blessed [be] thou of the LORD: I have
performed the (f) commandment of the LORD.



(f) This is the nature of hypocrites to be impudent against the truth, to condemn others, and justify
themselves.
#BCV:1 Samuel 15:17
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 15:17>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 15:17</verse></h3>

And Samuel said, When thou [wast] (g) little in thine own sight, [wast] thou not [made] the head of
the tribes of Israel, and the LORD anointed thee king over Israel?



(g) Meaning, of base condition as in (<bcv=I Sa 9:21>Sa1 9:21</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 15:20
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 15:20>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 15:20</verse></h3>



And Saul said unto Samuel, Yea, (h) I have obeyed the voice of the LORD, and have gone the way
which the LORD sent me, and have brought Agag the king of Amalek, and have utterly destroyed
the Amalekites.



(i) He stands most impudently in his own defence both against God and his own conscience.
#BCV:1 Samuel 15:23
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 15:23>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 15:23</verse></h3>



For (i) rebellion [is as] the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness [is as] iniquity and idolatry. Because
thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from [being] king.



(i) God hates nothing more than the disobedience of his commandment, even though the intent
seems good to man.
#BCV:1 Samuel 15:25
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 15:25>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 15:25</verse></h3>



Now therefore, I pray thee, pardon my (k) sin, and turn again with me, that I may worship the
LORD.



(k) This was not true repentance, but deceit out of fear for the loss of his kingdom.
#BCV:1 Samuel 15:28
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 15:28>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 15:28</verse></h3>



And Samuel said unto him, The LORD hath rent the kingdom of Israel from thee this day, and hath
given it to a (l) neighbour of thine, [that is] better than thou.



(l) That is, to David.
#BCV:1 Samuel 15:29
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 15:29>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 15:29</verse></h3>



And also the (m) Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he [is] not a man, that he should
repent.



(m) Meaning God, who maintains and prefers his own.
#BCV:1 Samuel 15:32
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 15:32>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 15:32</verse></h3>

Then said Samuel, Bring ye hither to me Agag the king of the Amalekites. And Agag came unto him
delicately. And Agag said, Surely the (n) bitterness of death is past.



(n) He expected nothing less than death, or as some write, he passed not for death.
#BCV:1 Samuel 15:34
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 15:34>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 15:34</verse></h3>



Then Samuel went to (o) Ramah; and Saul went up to his house to Gibeah of Saul.



(o) Where his house was.
#BCV:1 Samuel 15:35
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 15:35>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 15:35</verse></h3>



And Samuel came no more to (p) see Saul until the day of his death: nevertheless Samuel mourned
for Saul: and the LORD (q) repented that he had made Saul king over Israel.



(p) Though Saul came where Samuel was, (<bcv=I Sa 19:22>Sa1 19:22</bcv>).



(q) As in (<bcv=I Sa 15:11>Sa1 15:11</bcv>).

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 16</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 16:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 16:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=604>And the LORD said unto Samuel, How long wilt thou mourn for Saul, (a) seeing I have rejected him
from reigning over Israel? fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Bethlehemite:
for I have provided me a king among his sons.



(a) Signifying that we should not show ourselves more pitiful than God, nor to lament those whom
he casts out.
#BCV:1 Samuel 16:2
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 16:2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 16:2</verse></h3>



And Samuel said, How can I go? if Saul hear [it], he will kill me. And the LORD said, Take an heifer
with thee, and say, I am come (b) to sacrifice to the LORD.



(b) That is, to make a peace offering, which may be done even though the ark was not there.
#BCV:1 Samuel 16:4
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 16:4>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 16:4</verse></h3>



And Samuel did that which the LORD spake, and came to Bethlehem. And the elders of the town (c)
trembled at his coming, and said, Comest thou peaceably?



(c) Afraid, lest some grievous crime had been committed, because the prophet was not wont to
come there.
#BCV:1 Samuel 16:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 16:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 16:6</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when they were come, that he looked on Eliab, and said, Surely the LORD'S (d)
anointed [is] before him.



(d) Thinking that Eliab had been appointed by God to be made king.
#BCV:1 Samuel 16:14
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 16:14>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 16:14</verse></h3>



But the Spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and an (e) evil spirit from the LORD troubled him.



(e) The wicked spirits are at God's commandment to execute his will against the wicked.
#BCV:1 Samuel 16:18
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 16:18>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 16:18</verse></h3>



Then answered one of the servants, and said, Behold, I have seen a (f) son of Jesse the Bethlehemite,
[that is] cunning in playing, and a mighty valiant man, and a man of war, and prudent in matters, and
a comely person, and the LORD [is] with him.

<page=605>(f) Though David was now anointed king by the prophet, yet God would strengthen and test him in
various ways before he had the use of his kingdom.
#BCV:1 Samuel 16:23
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 16:23>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 16:23</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when the [evil] spirit from God was upon Saul, that David took an harp, and
played with his hand: so Saul was (g) refreshed, and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him.



(g) God would have Saul receive this benefit from David's hand, that his condemnation might be
even more evident, for his cruel hate toward him.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 17</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 17:4
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:4>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:4</verse></h3>

<page=606>And there (a) went out a champion out of the camp of the Philistines, named Goliath, of Gath,
whose height [was] six cubits and a span.



(a) Between the two camps.
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:5
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:5>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:5</verse></h3>



And [he had] an helmet of brass upon his head, and he [was] armed with a coat of mail; and the
weight of the coat [was] five thousand (b) shekels of brass.



(b) That is, 156 pounds 4 ounces, after half and ounce to the shekel: and 600 shekels weight
amounts to 18 3/4 pounds.
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:15
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:15>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:15</verse></h3>



But David (c) went and returned from Saul to feed his father's sheep at Bethlehem.



(c) To serve Saul, (<bcv=I Sa 16:19>Sa1 16:19</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:17
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:17>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:17</verse></h3>



And Jesse said unto David his son, (d) Take now for thy brethren an ephah of this parched [corn],
and these ten loaves, and run to the camp to thy brethren;



(d) Though Jesse meant one thing, yet God's providence directed David to another end.
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:18
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:18>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:18</verse></h3>



And carry these ten cheeses unto the captain of [their] thousand, and look how thy brethren fare,
and take their (e) pledge.



(e) If they have laid anything to gauge for their necessity, redeem it out.
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:23
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:23>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:23</verse></h3>



And as he talked with them, behold, there came up the champion, the Philistine of Gath, Goliath by
name, out of the armies of the Philistines, and spake according to the (f) same words: and David
heard [them].



(f) As in (<bcv=I Sa 17:8-9>Sa1 17:8-9</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:25
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:25>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:25</verse></h3>

<page=607>And the men of Israel said, Have ye seen this man that is come up? surely to defy Israel is he come
up: and it shall be, [that] the man who killeth him, the king will enrich him with great riches, and will
give him his daughter, and make his father's house (g) free in Israel.



(g) From taxes and payments.
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:26
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:26>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:26</verse></h3>



And David spake to the men that stood by him, saying, What shall be done to the man that killeth
this Philistine, and taketh away the (h) reproach from Israel? for who [is] this uncircumcised
Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?



(h) This dishonour that he does to Israel.
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:29
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:29>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:29</verse></h3>



And David said, What have I now done? [Is there] not a (i) cause?



(i) For his father's sending was a just occasion, and also he felt himself inwardly moved by God's
Spirit.
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:33
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:33>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:33</verse></h3>



And Saul said to David, Thou art not (k) able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou
[art but] a youth, and he a man of war from his youth.



(k) Here Satan proves David's faith, by the infidelity of Saul.
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:34
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:34>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:34</verse></h3>



And David said unto Saul, Thy servant kept his father's sheep, and there came a (l) lion, and a bear,
and took a lamb out of the flock:



(l) David, because of previous experience with God's help, did not doubt to overcome this danger,
seeing as he was zealous for God's honour.
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:37
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:37>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:37</verse></h3>



David said moreover, The LORD that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw
of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, (m) Go,
and the LORD be with thee.

<page=608>(m) For by these examples he saw that the power of God was with him.
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:40
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:40>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:40</verse></h3>



And he took his (n) staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put
them in a shepherd's bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling [was] in his hand: and he drew
near to the Philistine.



(n) So that by these weak means, It might be known that only God was the author of this victory.
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:43
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:43>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:43</verse></h3>



And the Philistine said unto David, [Am] I a dog, that thou comest to me with staves? And the
Philistine (o) cursed David by his gods.



(o) He swore by his gods that he would destroy him.
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:46
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:46>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:46</verse></h3>



This (p) day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head
from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air,
and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel.



(p) David being assured both of his cause and of his calling prophecies of the destruction of the
Philistines.
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:48
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:48>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:48</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when the Philistine arose, and came and drew nigh to meet David, that David



(q) hasted, and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine.



(q) Being moved with a fervent zeal to be revenged of this blaspheme of God's name.
#BCV:1 Samuel 17:55
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 17:55>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 17:55</verse></h3>



And when Saul saw David go forth against the Philistine, he said unto Abner, the captain of the
host, Abner, (e) whose son [is] this youth? And Abner said, [As] thy soul liveth, O king, I cannot tell.



(e) That is, of what family and tribe is he? He had forgotten David, even though he had received so
great a benefit by him.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 18</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 18:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 18:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 18:1</verse></h3>

<page=609>And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the (a) soul of Jonathan
was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul.



(a) His affection was fully bent toward him.
#BCV:1 Samuel 18:5
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 18:5>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 18:5</verse></h3>



And David went out whithersoever Saul sent him, [and] behaved himself (b) wisely: and Saul set him
over the men of war, and he was accepted in the sight of all the people, and also in the sight of
Saul's servants.



(b) That is, he prospered in all his doings.
#BCV:1 Samuel 18:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 18:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 18:6</verse></h3>



And it came to pass as they came, when David was returned from the slaughter of the (c) Philistine,
that the women came out of all cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet king Saul, with tabrets,
with joy, and with instruments of musick.



(c) That is, Goliath.
#BCV:1 Samuel 18:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 18:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 18:9</verse></h3>



And Saul (d) eyed David from that day and forward.



(d) Because he envied and hated him.
#BCV:1 Samuel 18:10
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 18:10>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 18:10</verse></h3>



And it came to pass on the morrow, that the evil spirit from God came upon Saul, and he (e)
prophesied in the midst of the house: and David played with his hand, as at other times: and [there
was] a javelin in Saul's hand.



(e) That is, spoke as a man beside himself for so the people abused this word, when they could not
understand.
#BCV:1 Samuel 18:13
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 18:13>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 18:13</verse></h3>



Therefore Saul removed him from him, and made him his captain over a thousand; and he went (f)
out and came in before the people.

<page=610>(f) Meaning he was captain over the people.
#BCV:1 Samuel 18:17
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 18:17>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 18:17</verse></h3>



And Saul said to David, Behold my elder daughter Merab, her will I give thee to wife: only be thou
valiant for me, and (g) fight the LORD'S battles. For Saul said, Let not mine hand be upon him, but
let the hand of the Philistines be upon him.



(g) Fight against them that war against God's people.
#BCV:1 Samuel 18:19
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 18:19>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 18:19</verse></h3>



But it came to pass at the time when Merab Saul's daughter should have been given to David, that (h)
she was given unto Adriel the Meholathite to wife.



(h) By whom he had five sons who David put to death at the request of the Gibeonites, (<bcv=II Sa 21:8>Sa2 21:8</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 18:21
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 18:21>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 18:21</verse></h3>



And Saul said, I will give him her, that she may be a (i) snare to him, and that the hand of the
Philistines may be against him. Wherefore Saul said to David, Thou shalt this day be my son in law
in [the one of] the twain.



(i) So his hypocrisy appears, for under pretence of favour he sought his destruction.
#BCV:1 Samuel 18:23
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 18:23>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 18:23</verse></h3>



And Saul's servants spake those words in the ears of David. And David said, (k) Seemeth it to you [a]
light [thing] to be a king's son in law, seeing that I [am] a poor man, and lightly esteemed?



(k) Meaning, that he was not able to endow his wife with riches.
#BCV:1 Samuel 18:26
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 18:26>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 18:26</verse></h3>



And when his servants told David these words, it pleased David well to be the (l) king's son in law:
and the days were not expired.



(l) Because he thought himself able to compass the king's request.
#BCV:1 Samuel 18:27
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 18:27>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 18:27</verse></h3>

<page=611>Wherefore David arose and went, he and his men, and slew of the Philistines two hundred men; and
David brought their foreskins, and (m) they gave them in full tale to the king, that he might be the
king's son in law. And Saul gave him Michal his daughter to wife.



(m) Meaning, David and his soldiers.
#BCV:1 Samuel 18:29
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 18:29>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 18:29</verse></h3>



And Saul was yet the more afraid (n) of David; and Saul became David's enemy continually.



(n) To be deprived of his kingdom.
#BCV:1 Samuel 18:30
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 18:30>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 18:30</verse></h3>



Then the princes of the Philistines went forth: and it came to pass, after they went forth, [that] (o)
David behaved himself more wisely than all the servants of Saul; so that his name was much set by.



(o) That is, David had better success against the Philistines than Saul's men.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 19</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 19:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 19:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 19:1</verse></h3>

<page=612>And Saul spake to Jonathan his son, and to all his servants, that they should (a) kill David.

(a) Before Saul sought David's life secretly, but now his hypocrisy grows to open cruelty.
#BCV:1 Samuel 19:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 19:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 19:3</verse></h3>

And I will go out and stand beside my father in the field where thou (b) [art], and I will commune
with my father of thee; and what I see, that I will tell thee.

(b) That I may warn you what to do.
#BCV:1 Samuel 19:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 19:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 19:6</verse></h3>


nd Saul hearkened unto the voice of Jonathan: and Saul (c) sware, [As] the LORD liveth, he shall
not be slain.



(c) Whatever he pretended outwardly, yet his heart was full of malice.
#BCV:1 Samuel 19:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 19:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 19:9</verse></h3>



And the evil spirit from the LORD was upon Saul, as he sat in his house with his javelin in his hand:
and David (d) played with [his] hand.



(d) He played on his harp to appease the rage of the evil spirit, (<bcv=I Sa 16:23>Sa1 16:23</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 19:12
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 19:12>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 19:12</verse></h3>



So Michal (e) let David down through a window: and he went, and fled, and escaped.



(e) Thus God moved both the son and daughter of this tyrant to favour David against their father.
#BCV:1 Samuel 19:15
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 19:15>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 19:15</verse></h3>



And Saul sent the messengers [again] to see David, saying, Bring him up to me in the (f) bed, that I
may slay him.



(f) Behold, how the tyrants to accomplish their rage, neither regard oath nor friendship, God nor
man.
#BCV:1 Samuel 19:18
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 19:18>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 19:18</verse></h3>

<page=613>So David fled, and escaped, and came to Samuel to Ramah, and told him all that Saul had done to
him. And he and Samuel went and dwelt in (g) Naioth.



(g) Naioth was a school where the word of God was studied, near Ramah.
#BCV:1 Samuel 19:20
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 19:20>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 19:20</verse></h3>



And Saul sent messengers to take David: and when they saw the company of the prophets
prophesying, and Samuel standing (h) [as] appointed over them, the Spirit of God was upon the
messengers of Saul, and they also (i) prophesied.



(h) Being their chief instructor.



(i) Changed their minds and praised God.
#BCV:1 Samuel 19:23
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 19:23>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 19:23</verse></h3>



And he (k) went thither to Naioth in Ramah: and the Spirit of God was upon him also, and he went
on, and prophesied, until he came to Naioth in Ramah.



(k) With a mind to persecute them.
#BCV:1 Samuel 19:24
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 19:24>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 19:24</verse></h3>



And he stripped off his (l) clothes also, and prophesied before Samuel in like manner, and lay (m)
down naked all that day and all that night. Wherefore they say, [Is] Saul also among the prophets?



(l) His kingly apparel.



(m) He humbled himself as others did.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 20</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 20:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=614>And David (a) fled from Naioth in Ramah, and came and said before Jonathan, What have I done?
what [is] mine iniquity? and what [is] my sin before thy father, that he seeketh my life?



(a) For Saul was detained, and prophesied a day and a night by God's providence, that David might
have time to escape.
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:3</verse></h3>



And David sware moreover, and said, Thy father certainly knoweth that I have found grace in thine
eyes; and he saith, Let not Jonathan know this, lest he be grieved: but truly [as] the LORD liveth,
and [as] thy soul liveth, [there is] but a (b) step between me and death.



(b) I am in great danger of death.
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:5
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:5>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:5</verse></h3>



And David said unto Jonathan, Behold, to morrow [is] the (c) new moon, and I should not fail to sit
with the king at meat: but let me go, that I may hide myself in the field unto the third [day] at even.



(c) At what time there would be a solemn sacrifice, (<bcv=Num 28:11>Num 28:11</bcv>), to which they added peace offerings
and feasts.
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:6</verse></h3>



If thy father at all miss me, then say, David earnestly asked [leave] of me that he might run to
Bethlehem his city: for [there is] a (d) yearly sacrifice there for all the family.



(d) Read (<bcv=I Sa 1:21>Sa1 1:21</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:9</verse></h3>



And Jonathan said, Far be it from thee: for if I knew certainly that evil were (e) determined by my
father to come upon thee, then would not I tell it thee?



(e) That he were fully determined.
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:10
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:10>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:10</verse></h3>



Then said David to Jonathan, Who (f) shall tell me? or what [if] thy father answer thee roughly?

<page=615>(f) If your father favours me.
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:13
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:13>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:13</verse></h3>



The LORD (g) do so and much more to Jonathan: but if it please my father [to do] thee evil, then I
will shew it thee, and send thee away, that thou mayest go in peace: and the LORD be with thee, as
he hath been with my father.



(g) The Lord punish me most grievously.
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:14
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:14>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:14</verse></h3>



And thou shalt not only while yet I live shew me the kindness of the LORD, (h) that I die not:



(h) I know that if you were given the kingdom now, you would not destroy me, but show yourself
friendly to my posterity.
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:22
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:22>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:22</verse></h3>



But if I say thus unto the young man, Behold, the arrows [are] beyond thee; go thy way: for the (i)
LORD hath sent thee away.



(i) The Lord is the author of your departure.
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:26
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:26>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:26</verse></h3>



Nevertheless Saul spake not any thing that day: for he thought, Something hath befallen him, he [is]
not (k) clean; surely he [is] not clean.



(k) Yet he might have some business to let him.
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:27
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:27>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:27</verse></h3>



And it came to pass on the morrow, [which was] the second [day] of the month, that David's place
was empty: and Saul said unto Jonathan his son, Wherefore cometh not (l) the son of Jesse to meat,
neither yesterday, nor to day?



(l) Thus he speaks contemptuously of David.
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:29
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:29>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:29</verse></h3>

<page=616>And he said, Let me go, I pray thee; for our family hath a sacrifice in the city; and my brother, he
hath commanded me [to be there]: and now, if I have found favour in thine eyes, let me get away, I
pray thee, and see my (n) brethren. Therefore he cometh not unto the king's table.



(n) Meaning, all his kinsfolk.
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:30
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:30>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:30</verse></h3>



Then Saul's anger was kindled against Jonathan, and he said unto him, Thou (o) son of the perverse
rebellious [woman], do not I know that thou hast chosen the son of Jesse to thine own confusion,
and unto the confusion of thy mother's nakedness?



(o) You are always contrary to me as your mother is.
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:32
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:32>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:32</verse></h3>



And Jonathan answered Saul his father, and said unto him, Wherefore shall he be (p) slain? what
hath he done?



(p) For it was too great tyranny to put one to death and not to give a reason why.
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:35
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:35>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:35</verse></h3>



And it came to pass in the morning, that Jonathan went out into the field (q) at the time appointed
with David, and a little lad with him.



(q) For this was the third day, as it was agreed on in (<bcv=I Sa 20:5>Sa1 20:5</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:38
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:38>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:38</verse></h3>



And Jonathan cried after the lad, (r) Make speed, haste, stay not. And Jonathan's lad gathered up the
arrows, and came to his master.



(r) By these words be admonished David what he should do.
#BCV:1 Samuel 20:41
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:41>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:41</verse></h3>



[And] as soon as the lad was gone, David arose out of [a place] toward the (s) south, and fell on his
face to the ground, and bowed himself three times: and they kissed one another, and wept one with
another, until David exceeded.



(s) It seems that he shot on the north side of the stone, least the boy should have seen David.

#BCV:1 Samuel 20:42
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 20:42>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 20:42</verse></h3>

And Jonathan said to David, Go in peace, forasmuch as we have (t) sworn both of us in the name
of the LORD, saying, The LORD be between me and thee, and between my seed and thy seed for
ever. And he arose and departed: and Jonathan went into the city.



(t) Which oath he calls the covenant of the Lord in (<bcv=I Sa 20:8>Sa1 20:8</bcv>).

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 21</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 21:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 21:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 21:1</verse></h3>

<page=618>Then came David to (a) Nob to Ahimelech the priest: and Ahimelech was afraid at the meeting of
David, and said unto him, Why [art] thou alone, and no man with thee?



(a) Where the ark then was to ask counsel of the Lord.
#BCV:1 Samuel 21:2
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 21:2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 21:2</verse></h3>



And David said unto Ahimelech the priest, The (b) king hath commanded me a business, and hath
said unto me, Let no man know any thing of the business whereabout I send thee, and what I have
commanded thee: and I have appointed [my] servants to such and such a place.



(b) These infirmities that we see in the saints of God, teach us that no one has his justice in himself,
but receives it from God's mercy.
#BCV:1 Samuel 21:4
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 21:4>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 21:4</verse></h3>



And the priest answered David, and said, [There is] no common bread under mine hand, but there is
hallowed bread; if the young men have kept themselves at least from (c) women.



(c) If they have not accompanied with their wives.
#BCV:1 Samuel 21:5
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 21:5>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 21:5</verse></h3>



And David answered the priest, and said unto him, Of a truth women [have been] kept from us
about these three days, since I came out, and the (d) vessels of the young men are holy, and [the
bread is] in a manner common, yea, though it (e) were sanctified this day in the vessel.



(d) That is, their bodies.



(e) Shall be more careful to keep his vessel holy, when he has eaten of this holy food.
#BCV:1 Samuel 21:7
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 21:7>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 21:7</verse></h3>



Now a certain man of the servants of Saul [was] there that day, (f) detained before the LORD; and
his name [was] Doeg, an Edomite, the chiefest of the herdmen that [belonged] to Saul.



(f) Tarrying to worship before the ark.
#BCV:1 Samuel 21:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 21:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 21:9</verse></h3>

<page=619>And the priest said, The sword of Goliath the Philistine, whom thou slewest in the valley of Elah,
behold, it [is here] wrapped in a cloth behind the (g) ephod: if thou wilt take that, take [it]: for [there
is] no other save that here. And David said, [There is] none like that; give it me.



(g) Behind that place where the high priests garment lay.
#BCV:1 Samuel 21:10
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 21:10>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 21:10</verse></h3>



And David arose, and (h) fled that day for fear of Saul, and went to Achish the king of Gath.



(h) That is, out of Saul's domain.
#BCV:1 Samuel 21:13
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 21:13>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 21:13</verse></h3>



And he changed his behaviour before them, and feigned himself mad in their hands, and (i)
scrabbled on the doors of the gate, and let his spittle fall down upon his beard.



(i) By making marks and toys.
#BCV:1 Samuel 21:15
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 21:15>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 21:15</verse></h3>



Have I need of mad men, that ye have brought this [fellow] to play the mad man in my presence? (k)
shall this [fellow] come into my house?



(k) Is he fit to be in a king's house.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 22</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 22:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 22:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 22:1</verse></h3>

<page=620>David therefore departed thence, and escaped to the cave (a) Adullam: and when his brethren and all
his father's house heard [it], they went down thither to him.



(a) Which was in the tribe of Judah, near Bethlehem.
#BCV:1 Samuel 22:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 22:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 22:3</verse></h3>



And David went thence to Mizpeh of (b) Moab: and he said unto the king of Moab, Let my father
and my mother, I pray thee, come forth, [and be] with you, till I know what God will do for me.



(b) For there was another so called in Judah.
#BCV:1 Samuel 22:4
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 22:4>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 22:4</verse></h3>



And he (c) brought them before the king of Moab: and they dwelt with him all the while that David
was in (d) the hold.



(c) For he feared the rage of Saul against his house.



(d) That is, in Mizpeh, which was a stronghold.
#BCV:1 Samuel 22:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 22:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 22:6</verse></h3>



When Saul heard that David was (e) discovered, and the men that [were] with him, (now Saul abode
in Gibeah under a tree in Ramah, having his spear in his hand, and all his servants [were] standing
about him;)



(e) That a great brute came on him.
#BCV:1 Samuel 22:7
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 22:7>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 22:7</verse></h3>



Then Saul said unto his servants that stood about him, Hear now, ye (f) Benjamites; will the son of
Jesse give every one of you fields and vineyards, [and] make you all captains of thousands, and
captains of hundreds;



(f) You that are of my tribe and lineage.
#BCV:1 Samuel 22:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 22:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 22:8</verse></h3>

<page=621>That all of you have conspired against me, and [there is] none that sheweth me that my son hath
made a league with the son of Jesse, and [there is] none of you that is sorry for me, or sheweth unto
me that my (g) son hath stirred up my servant against me, to lie in wait, as at this day?



(g) By this he would persuade them that this conspiracy was most horrible, where the son conspired
against the father, and the servant against his master.
#BCV:1 Samuel 22:11
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 22:11>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 22:11</verse></h3>



Then the king sent to call Ahimelech the priest, the son of Ahitub, and all his father's house, (h) the
priests that [were] in Nob: and they came all of them to the king.



(h) Which were the remnant of the house of Eli, whose house God threatened to punish.
#BCV:1 Samuel 22:15
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 22:15>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 22:15</verse></h3>




(i) Did I then begin to enquire of God for him? be it far from me: let not the king impute [any]
thing unto his servant, [nor] to all the house of my father: for thy servant knew nothing of all this,
less or more.



(i) Have I not at other times also, when he had great affairs, consulted with the Lord for him?
#BCV:1 Samuel 22:17
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 22:17>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 22:17</verse></h3>



And the king said unto the footmen that stood about him, Turn, and slay the priests of the LORD;
because their hand also [is] with David, and because they knew when he fled, and did not shew it to
me. But the servants of the king (k) would not put forth their hand to fall upon the priests of the
LORD.



(k) For they knew that they should not obey the wicked commandment of the king in slaying the
innocent.
#BCV:1 Samuel 22:20
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 22:20>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 22:20</verse></h3>



And one of the sons of Ahimelech the son of Ahitub, named Abiathar, (l) escaped, and fled after
David.



(l) This was God's providence, who according to his promise preserved some of the house of Eli,



(<bcv=I Sa 2:33>Sa1 2:33</bcv>).

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 23</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 23:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 23:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 23:1</verse></h3>

<page=622>Then they told David, saying, Behold, the Philistines fight against (a) Keilah, and they rob the
threshingfloors.

(a) Which was a city in the tribe of Judah, (<bcv=Jos 15:44>Jos 15:44</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 23:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 23:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 23:3</verse></h3>

And David's men said unto him, Behold, we be afraid here in (b) Judah: how much more then if we
come to Keilah against the armies of the Philistines?

(b) That is, in the midst of Judah, much more when we come to the borders against our enemies.
#BCV:1 Samuel 23:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 23:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 23:6</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when Abiathar the son of Ahimelech fled to David to Keilah, [that] he came
down [with] an (c) ephod in his hand.



(c) By God's providence the ephod was preserved and kept with David the true king.
#BCV:1 Samuel 23:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 23:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 23:9</verse></h3>



And David knew that Saul secretly practised mischief against him; and he said to Abiathar the priest,



(d) Bring hither the ephod.



(d) To consult with the Lord by Urim and Thummim.
#BCV:1 Samuel 23:14
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 23:14>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 23:14</verse></h3>



And David abode in the wilderness in strong holds, and remained in a mountain in the wilderness of
Ziph. And Saul sought him every day, but God (e) delivered him not into his hand.



(e) No power nor policy can prevail against God's children, but when he appoints the time.
#BCV:1 Samuel 23:17
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 23:17>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 23:17</verse></h3>



And he said unto him, Fear not: for the hand of Saul my father shall not find thee; and thou shalt be



(f) king over Israel, and I shall be next unto thee; and that also Saul my father knoweth.



(f) Jonathan assured David, that God would accomplish his promise, and that his father warred
against his own conscience.
#BCV:1 Samuel 23:21
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 23:21>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 23:21</verse></h3>

<page=623>And Saul said, (g) Blessed [be] ye of the LORD; for ye have compassion on me.



(g) the Lord recompense this friendship.
#BCV:1 Samuel 23:23
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 23:23>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 23:23</verse></h3>



See therefore, and take knowledge of all the lurking places where he hideth himself, and come ye
again to me with the certainty, and I will go with you: and it shall come to pass, if he be in the (h)
land, that I will search him out throughout all the thousands of Judah.



(h) In your country of Ziph, which is in Judah.
#BCV:1 Samuel 23:25
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 23:25>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 23:25</verse></h3>



Saul also and his men went to seek [him]. And they told David: wherefore he came down into a rock,
and abode in the wilderness of (i) Maon. And when Saul heard [that], he pursued after David in the
wilderness of Maon.



(i) Which was also in the tribe of Judah, (<bcv=Jos 15:55>Jos 15:55</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 23:27
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 23:27>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 23:27</verse></h3>



But there came a (k) messenger unto Saul, saying, Haste thee, and come; for the Philistines have
invaded the land.



(k) Thus the Lord can pull back the bridle of the tyrants and deliver his out of the lion's mouth.
#BCV:1 Samuel 23:28
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 23:28>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 23:28</verse></h3>



Wherefore Saul returned from pursuing after David, and went against the Philistines: therefore they
called that place (l) Selahammahlekoth.



(l) That is, stone of division, because there they divided themselves one from another.
#BCV:1 Samuel 23:29
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 23:29>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 23:29</verse></h3>



And David went up from thence, and dwelt in (a) strong holds at Engedi.



(a) That is, in strong places, which were defended by nature.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 24</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 24:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 24:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 24:1</verse></h3>

<page=624>And it came to pass, when Saul was returned from following the Philistines, that it was told him,
saying, Behold, David [is] in the wilderness of (b) Engedi.



(b) A city of Judah, (<bcv=Jos 15:62>Jos 15:62</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 24:4
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 24:4>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 24:4</verse></h3>



And the men of David said unto him, (c) Behold the day of which the LORD said unto thee,
Behold, I will deliver thine enemy into thine hand, that thou mayest do to him as it shall seem good
unto thee. Then David arose, and cut off the skirt of Saul's robe privily.



(c) Here we see how ready we are to hasten God's promise, if the occasion serve never so little.
#BCV:1 Samuel 24:5
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 24:5>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 24:5</verse></h3>



And it came to pass afterward, that David's heart (d) smote him, because he had cut off Saul's skirt.



(d) For seeing it was his own private cause, he repented that he had touched his enemy.
#BCV:1 Samuel 24:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 24:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 24:9</verse></h3>



And David said to Saul, (e) Wherefore hearest thou men's words, saying, Behold, David seeketh thy
hurt?



(e) Contrary to the report of those who said David was Saul's enemy, he proves himself to be his
friend.
#BCV:1 Samuel 24:16
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 24:16>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 24:16</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when David had made an end of speaking these words unto Saul, that Saul said,



(f) [Is] this thy voice, my son David? And Saul lifted up his voice, and wept.



(f) Though he was a cruel enemy to David, yet by his great gentleness his conscience compelled him
to yield.
#BCV:1 Samuel 24:20
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 24:20>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 24:20</verse></h3>



And now, behold, I (g) know well that thou shalt surely be king, and that the kingdom of Israel shall
be established in thine hand.

<page=625>(g) Though this tyrant saw and confessed the favour of God toward David, yet he did not cease to
persecute him against his own conscience.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 25</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 25:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:1</verse></h3>

<page=626>And Samuel died; and all the Israelites were gathered together, and lamented him, and buried him in
his (a) house at Ramah. And David arose, and went down to the wilderness of Paran.

(a) That is, among his own kindred.
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:2
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:2</verse></h3>



And [there was] a man in (b) Maon, whose possessions [were] in Carmel; and the man [was] very
great, and he had three thousand sheep, and a thousand goats: and he was shearing his sheep in
Carmel.



(b) Maon and Carmel were cities in the tribe of Judah. Carmel the mountain was in Galilee.
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:6</verse></h3>



And thus shall ye say (c) to him that liveth [in prosperity], Peace [be] both to thee, and peace [be] to
thine house, and peace [be] unto all that thou hast.



(c) Or, for salvation.
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:8</verse></h3>



Ask thy young men, and they will shew thee. Wherefore let the young men find favour in thine eyes:
for we come in a good day: give, I pray thee, whatsoever (d) cometh to thine hand unto thy servants,
and to thy son David.



(d) Whatever you have ready for us.
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:10
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:10>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:10</verse></h3>



And Nabal answered David's servants, and said, Who [is] David? and who [is] the (e) son of Jesse?
there be many servants now a days that break away every man from his master.



(e) Thus the covetous wretches instead of relieving the needs of God's children, reviled their
persons and condemned their cause.
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:15
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:15>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:15</verse></h3>



But the men [were] very good (f) unto us, and we were not hurt, neither missed we any thing, as long
as we were conversant with them, when we were in the fields:

<page=627>(f) When we kept our sheep in the wilderness of Paran.
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:19
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:19>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:19</verse></h3>

And she said unto her servants, Go on before me; behold, I come after you. But she told not her (g)
husband Nabal.



(g) Because she knew his crooked nature, that he would rather die than agree to her enterprise.
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:22
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:22>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:22</verse></h3>



So and more also do God unto the enemies of David, if I leave of all that [pertain] to him by the
morning light any that (h) pisseth against the wall.



(h) Meaning by this proverb that he would destroy both small and great.
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:26
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:26>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:26</verse></h3>



Now therefore, my lord, [as] the LORD liveth, and [as] thy soul liveth, seeing the LORD hath
withholden thee from coming to [shed] blood, and from avenging thyself with thine own (i) hand,
now let thine enemies, and they that seek evil to my lord, be as Nabal.



(i) That is, that you should not be revenged by your enemy.
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:28
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:28>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:28</verse></h3>



I pray thee, forgive the trespass of thine handmaid: for the LORD will certainly make my lord a (k)
sure house; because my lord fighteth the battles of the LORD, and evil hath not been found in thee
[all] thy days.



(k) Confirm his kingdom to his posterity.
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:29
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:29>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:29</verse></h3>



Yet (l) a man is risen to pursue thee, and to seek thy soul: but the soul of my lord shall be bound in
the (m) bundle of life with the LORD thy God; and the souls of thine enemies, them shall he sling
out, [as out] of the middle of a sling.



(l) That is, Saul.



(m) God will preserve you long in his service, and destroy your enemies.
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:31
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:31>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:31</verse></h3>

<page=628>That this shall be no grief unto thee, nor offence of heart unto my lord, either that thou hast shed
blood causeless, or that my lord hath (n) avenged himself: but when the LORD shall have dealt well
with my lord, then remember thine handmaid.



(n) That he did not avenge himself, which would have tormented his conscience.
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:33
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:33>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:33</verse></h3>



And blessed [be] thy advice, and blessed [be] thou, which hast kept me this day from coming to
[shed] blood, (o) and from avenging myself with mine own hand.



(o) Read (<bcv=I Sa 25:31>Sa1 25:31</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:34
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:34>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:34</verse></h3>



For in very deed, [as] the LORD God of Israel liveth, (p) which hath kept me back from hurting
thee, except thou hadst hasted and come to meet me, surely there had not been left unto Nabal by
the morning light any that pisseth against the wall.



(p) He attributes it to the Lord's mercy, and not to himself that he was stayed.
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:36
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:36>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:36</verse></h3>



And Abigail came to Nabal; and, behold, he held a feast in his house, like the feast of a king; and
Nabal's heart [was] merry within him, for he [was] very drunken: wherefore she told him (q) nothing,
less or more, until the morning light.



(q) For he had no reason either to consider, or to give thanks for this great benefit of deliverance.
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:37
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:37>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:37</verse></h3>

But it came to pass in the morning, when the wine was gone out of Nabal, and his wife had told
him these things, that his heart died within him, and he became [as] (r) a stone.

(r) For fear of the great danger.
#BCV:1 Samuel 25:39
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 25:39>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 25:39</verse></h3>

And when David heard that Nabal was dead, he said, Blessed [be] the LORD, that hath pleaded the
cause of my reproach from the hand of Nabal, and hath kept his servant from evil: for the LORD
hath returned the wickedness of Nabal upon his own head. And David sent and communed with
Abigail, to (s) take her to him to wife.

(s) For he had experienced her great godliness, wisdom and humility.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 26</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 26:2
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 26:2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 26:2</verse></h3>

<page=629>Then Saul arose, and went down to the wilderness of Ziph, having three thousand (a) chosen men
of Israel with him, to seek David in the wilderness of Ziph.

(a) That is, of the most skilful and valiant soldiers.
#BCV:1 Samuel 26:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 26:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 26:6</verse></h3>



Then answered David and said to Ahimelech the (b) Hittite, and to Abishai the son of Zeruiah,
brother to (c) Joab, saying, Who will go down with me to Saul to the camp? And Abishai said, I will
go down with thee.



(b) Who was a stranger, and not an Israelite.



(c) Who afterward was David's chief captain.
#BCV:1 Samuel 26:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 26:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 26:8</verse></h3>



Then said Abishai to David, God hath delivered thine enemy into thine hand this day: now therefore
let me smite him, I pray thee, with the spear even to the earth at once, and I will not [smite] him the



(d) second time.



(d) Meaning, he would make him sure at one stroke.
#BCV:1 Samuel 26:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 26:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 26:9</verse></h3>



And David said to Abishai, Destroy him not: for who can stretch forth his hand (e) against the
LORD'S anointed, and be guiltless?



(e) That is, in his own private cause: for Jehu slew two kings at God's appointment, (<bcv=II Ki 9:24>Kg2 9:24</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 26:15
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 26:15>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 26:15</verse></h3>



And David said to Abner, [Art] not thou a [valiant] (f) man? and who [is] like to thee in Israel?
wherefore then hast thou not kept thy lord the king? for there came one of the people in to destroy
the king thy lord.



(f) Esteemed most valiant and fit to save the king?
#BCV:1 Samuel 26:17
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 26:17>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 26:17</verse></h3>

<page=630>And Saul knew David's voice, and said, [Is] this thy voice, (g) my son David? And David said, [It is]
my voice, my lord, O king.



(g) By this it appears, that the hypocrite persecuted David against his own conscience and contrary
to his promise.
#BCV:1 Samuel 26:19
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 26:19>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 26:19</verse></h3>



Now therefore, I pray thee, let my lord the king hear the words of his servant. If the LORD have
stirred thee up against me, let him (h) accept an offering: but if [they be] the children of men,
cursed [be] they before the LORD; for they have driven me out this day from abiding in the
inheritance of the LORD, saying, Go, serve (i) other gods.



(h) Let his anger toward us be pacified by a sacrifice.



(i) As much as lay in them, they compelled him to idolatry because they forced him to flee to the
idolaters.
#BCV:1 Samuel 26:21
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 26:21>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 26:21</verse></h3>



Then said Saul, I have sinned: return, my son David: for I will no more do thee harm, because my
soul was (k) precious in thine eyes this day: behold, I have played the fool, and have erred
exceedingly.



(k) Because you saved my life this day.
#BCV:1 Samuel 26:23
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 26:23>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 26:23</verse></h3>



The LORD render to every man his (l) righteousness and his faithfulness: for the LORD delivered
thee into [my] hand to day, but I would not stretch forth mine hand against the LORD'S anointed.



(l) Thus he protests his innocency toward Saul, not defending his justice in the sight of God, in
whose presence none is righteous, (<bcv=Psa 14:3>Psa 14:3</bcv>,<bcv=Psa 130:3> Psa 130:3</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 26:25
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 26:25>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 26:25</verse></h3>



Then Saul said to David, Blessed [be] thou, my son David: thou shalt both do great [things], and also
shalt still prevail. So David went on his way, and Saul returned to his (m) place.



(m) To Gibeah of Benjamin.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 27</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 27:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 27:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 27:1</verse></h3>

<page=631>And David said in his heart, I shall now (a) perish one day by the hand of Saul: [there is] nothing
better for me than that I should speedily escape into the land of the Philistines; and Saul shall
despair of me, to seek me any more in any coast of Israel: so shall I escape out of his hand.



(a) David distrusts God's protection and therefore flees to the idolaters, who were enemies to God's
people.
#BCV:1 Samuel 27:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 27:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 27:3</verse></h3>



And David (b) dwelt with Achish at Gath, he and his men, every man with his household, [even]
David with his two wives, Ahinoam the Jezreelitess, and Abigail the Carmelitess, Nabal's wife.



(b) Thus God by his providence changes the enemies hearts, and makes them favour his in their
need.
#BCV:1 Samuel 27:5
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 27:5>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 27:5</verse></h3>



And David said unto Achish, If I have now found grace in thine eyes, (c) let them give me a place in
some town in the country, that I may dwell there: for why should thy servant dwell in the royal city
with thee?



(c) Let your officers appoint me a place.
#BCV:1 Samuel 27:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 27:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 27:8</verse></h3>



And David and his men went up, and invaded the (d) Geshurites, and the Gezrites, and the
Amalekites: for those [nations were] of old the inhabitants of the land, as thou goest to Shur, even
unto the land of Egypt.

(d) These were the wicked Canaanites, whom God had appointed to be destroyed.
#BCV:1 Samuel 27:10
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 27:10>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 27:10</verse></h3>

And Achish said, Whither have ye made a road to day? And David said, Against the south of Judah,
and against the south of the (e) Jerahmeelites, and against the south of the Kenites.

(e) A family of the tribe of Judah, (<bcv=1Ch 2:9>Ch1 2:9</bcv>).

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 28</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 28:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 28:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 28:1</verse></h3>

<page=632>And it came to pass in those days, that the Philistines gathered their armies together for warfare, to
fight with Israel. And Achish said unto David, (a) Know thou assuredly, that thou shalt go out with
me to battle, thou and thy men.

(a) Though it was a great grief to David to fight against the people of God, yet such was his
infirmity, he did not dare deny him.
#BCV:1 Samuel 28:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 28:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 28:3</verse></h3>

Now Samuel was dead, and all Israel had lamented him, and buried him in Ramah, even in his own
city. And Saul had (b) put away those that had familiar spirits, and the wizards, out of the land.



(b) According to the commandment of God, (<bcv=Exo 22:18>Exo 22:18</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 18:10-11> Deu 18:10-11</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 28:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 28:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 28:6</verse></h3>



And when Saul enquired of the LORD, the LORD answered him not, neither by dreams, nor by (c)
Urim, nor by prophets.



(c) Meaning, the high priest, (<bcv=Exo 28:30>Exo 28:30</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 28:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 28:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 28:8</verse></h3>



And Saul (d) disguised himself, and put on other raiment, and he went, and two men with him, and
they came to the woman by night: and he said, I pray thee, divine unto me by the familiar spirit, and
bring me [him] up, whom I shall name unto thee.



(d) He does not seek God in his misery, but is led by Satan to unlawful means, which in his
conscience he condemns.
#BCV:1 Samuel 28:11
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 28:11>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 28:11</verse></h3>



Then said the woman, Whom shall I bring up unto thee? And he said, Bring me up (e) Samuel.



(e) He speaks according to his gross ignorance not considering the state of the saints after this life,
and how Satan has no power over them.
#BCV:1 Samuel 28:14
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 28:14>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 28:14</verse></h3>

<page=633>And he said unto her, What form [is] he of ? And she said, An old man cometh up; and he [is]
covered with a mantle. And Saul perceived that it [was] (f) Samuel, and he stooped with [his] face to
the ground, and bowed himself.



(f) To his imagination, even though it was Satan, who to blind his eyes took on him the form of
Samuel, as he can do of an angel of light.
#BCV:1 Samuel 28:17
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 28:17>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 28:17</verse></h3>



And the LORD hath done to (g) him, as he spake by me: for the LORD hath rent the kingdom out
of thine hand, and given it to thy neighbour, [even] to David:



(g) That is, to David.
#BCV:1 Samuel 28:19
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 28:19>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 28:19</verse></h3>



Moreover the LORD will also deliver Israel with thee into the hand of the Philistines: (h) and to
morrow [shalt] thou and thy sons [be] with me: the LORD also shall deliver the host of Israel into
the hand of the Philistines.



(h) You will die, (<bcv=I Sa 31:6>Sa1 31:6</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 28:20
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 28:20>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 28:20</verse></h3>



Then Saul fell straightway all along on the earth, and was sore (i) afraid, because of the words of
Samuel: and there was no strength in him; for he had eaten no bread all the day, nor all the night.



(i) The wicked when they hear God's judgments, tremble and despair, but cannot seek for mercy by
repentance.
#BCV:1 Samuel 28:21
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 28:21>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 28:21</verse></h3>



And the woman came unto Saul, and saw that he was sore troubled, and said unto him, Behold,
thine handmaid hath obeyed thy voice, and I (k) have put my life in my hand, and have hearkened
unto thy words which thou spakest unto me.



(k) I have ventured my life.
#BCV:1 Samuel 28:24
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 28:24>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 28:24</verse></h3>



And the woman had a fat calf in the house; and she hasted, and killed it, and took flour, and
kneaded [it], and did bake (l) unleavened bread thereof:



(l) Because it required haste.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 29</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 29:2
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 29:2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 29:2</verse></h3>

<page=635>And the lords of the Philistines passed on by (a) hundreds, and by thousands: but David and his
men passed on in the rereward with Achish.



(a) According to their bands, or ensigns.
#BCV:1 Samuel 29:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 29:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 29:3</verse></h3>



Then said the princes of the Philistines, What [do] these Hebrews [here]? And Achish said unto the
princes of the Philistines, [Is] not this David, the servant of Saul the king of Israel, which hath been
with me these days, (b) or these years, and I have found no fault in him since he fell [unto me] unto
this day?



(b) Meaning, a long time, that is, four months and certain days, (<bcv=I Sa 27:7>Sa1 27:7</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 29:4
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 29:4>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 29:4</verse></h3>



And the princes of the Philistines were wroth with him; and the princes of the Philistines said unto
him, Make this fellow return, that he may go again to his place which thou hast appointed him, and
let him not go down with us to battle, lest in the battle he be an adversary to us: for wherewith
should he reconcile himself unto his master? [should it] not [be] with the (c) heads of these men?



(c) Would not Saul receive him to favour, if he would betray us?
#BCV:1 Samuel 29:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 29:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 29:6</verse></h3>



Then Achish called David, and said unto him, Surely, [as] the LORD liveth, thou hast been upright,
and thy (d) going out and thy coming in with me in the host [is] good in my sight: for I have not
found evil in thee since the day of thy coming unto me unto this day: nevertheless the lords favour
thee not.



(d) That is, was conversant with me.
#BCV:1 Samuel 29:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 29:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 29:8</verse></h3>



And David said unto Achish, But what have I done? and what hast thou found in thy servant so
long as I have been with thee unto this day, that I may (e) not go fight against the enemies of my
lord the king?



(e) This deception cannot be excused, for it grieved him to go against the people of God.
#BCV:1 Samuel 29:10
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 29:10>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 29:10</verse></h3>

<page=636>Wherefore now rise up early in the morning with thy (f) master's servants that are come with thee:
and as soon as ye be up early in the morning, and have light, depart.



(f) With them that fled to thee from Saul.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 30</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 30:1
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 30:1>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 30:1</verse></h3>

<page=637>And it came to pass, when David and his men were come to Ziklag on (a) the third day, that the
Amalekites had invaded the south, and Ziklag, and (b) smitten Ziklag, and burned it with fire;

(a) After that he departed from Achish.



(b) That is, destroyed their city.
#BCV:1 Samuel 30:3
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 30:3>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 30:3</verse></h3>



So David and his men came to the city, and, behold, [it was] burned with fire; and their (c) wives,
and their sons, and their daughters, were taken captives.



(c) For those only remained in the city, when the men were gone to war.
#BCV:1 Samuel 30:6
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 30:6>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 30:6</verse></h3>



And David was greatly distressed; for the people (d) spake of stoning him, because the soul of all
the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself
in the LORD his God.



(d) Thus we see that in trouble and adversity we do not consider God's providence, but like raging
beasts forget both our own duty and contemn God's appointment over us.
#BCV:1 Samuel 30:8
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 30:8>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 30:8</verse></h3>



And David enquired at the LORD, saying, Shall I pursue after this troop? shall I overtake them? And
he answered him, Pursue: for thou shalt surely overtake [them], and without fail (e) recover [all].



(e) Though God seem to leave us for a time, yet if we trust in him, we will be sure to find comfort.
#BCV:1 Samuel 30:11
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 30:11>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 30:11</verse></h3>



And they found an Egyptian in the field, and brought him to David, and gave him (f) bread, and he
did eat; and they made him drink water;



(f) God by his providence both provides for the needs of the poor stranger, and made him a guide
to David to accomplish his enterprise.
#BCV:1 Samuel 30:15
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 30:15>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 30:15</verse></h3>

<page=638>And David said to him, Canst thou bring me down to this company? And he said, (g) Swear unto me
by God, that thou wilt neither kill me, nor deliver me into the hands of my master, and I will bring
thee down to this company.



(g) For others were in all ages held in most reverence, even among the heathen.
#BCV:1 Samuel 30:16
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 30:16>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 30:16</verse></h3>



And when he had brought him down, behold, [they were]
spread abroad upon all the earth, (h) eating and drinking, and dancing, because of all the great spoil
that they had taken out of the land of the Philistines, and out of the land of Judah.



(h) The wicked in their pomp and pleasures do not consider the judgment of God, which is then at
hand to smite them.
#BCV:1 Samuel 30:17
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 30:17>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 30:17</verse></h3>



And David smote them from the twilight even unto the evening (i) of the next day: and there
escaped not a man of them, save four hundred young men, which rode upon camels, and fled.



(i) Some read, and to the morrow of the two evenings, that is, three days.
#BCV:1 Samuel 30:20
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 30:20>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 30:20</verse></h3>



And David took all the flocks and the herds, [which] they drave before those [other] cattle, and said,
This [is] David's (k) spoil.



(k) Which the Amalekites had taken from others, and David from them, besides the goods of Ziklag.
#BCV:1 Samuel 30:22
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 30:22>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 30:22</verse></h3>



Then answered all the wicked men and [men] of Belial, of those that went with David, and said,
Because they went not with us, we will not give them [ought] of the spoil that we have recovered,
save to every man his (l) wife and his children, that they may lead [them] away, and depart.



(l) Under these are understood the cattle and goods, which belonged to every man.
#BCV:1 Samuel 30:25
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 30:25>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 30:25</verse></h3>




(m) And it was [so] from that day forward, that he made it a statute and an ordinance for Israel unto
this day.



(m) Some refer these words to David, that he alleged an old custom and law, as if it were written, it
is both now, and ever has been.
#BCV:1 Samuel 30:31
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 30:31>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 30:31</verse></h3>

<page=639>And to [them] which [were] in Hebron, and (n) to all the places where David himself and his men
were wont to haunt.



(n) Showing himself mindful of their benefits towards him.

<h2>1 Kings (1 Samuel) Chapter 31</h2>

#BCV:1 Samuel 31:4
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 31:4>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 31:4</verse></h3>

<page=640>Then said Saul unto his armourbearer, (a) Draw thy sword, and thrust me through therewith; lest
these uncircumcised come and thrust me through, and abuse me. But his armourbearer would not;
for he was sore afraid. Therefore Saul took a sword, and fell upon it.



(a) So we see that his cruel life has a desperate end, as is commonly seen in those who persecute the
children of God.
#BCV:1 Samuel 31:7
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 31:7>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 31:7</verse></h3>



And when the men of Israel that [were] on the other side of the (b) valley, and [they] that [were] on
the other side (c) Jordan, saw that the men of Israel fled, and that Saul and his sons were dead, they
forsook the cities, and fled; and the Philistines came and dwelt in them.



(b) Near to Gilboa.



(c) The tribes of Reuben and Gad, and half the tribe of Manasseh.
#BCV:1 Samuel 31:9
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 31:9>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 31:9</verse></h3>



And they cut off his head, and stripped off his armour, and sent into the land of the Philistines
round about, to (d) publish [it in] the house of their idols, and among the people.



(d) In token of victory and triumph.
#BCV:1 Samuel 31:11
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 31:11>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 31:11</verse></h3>



And when the inhabitants of (e) Jabeshgilead heard of that which the Philistines had done to Saul;



(e) Whom he had delivered from their enemies, (<bcv=I Sa 11:11>Sa1 11:11</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Samuel 31:13
<h3><verse=1 Samuel 31:13>1 Kings (1 Samuel) 31:13</verse></h3>



And they took their bones, and buried [them] under a tree at Jabesh, and (f) fasted seven days.

(f) According to the custom of mourners.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel)</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 1:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 1:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=641>Now it came to pass after the death of Saul, when David was returned from the slaughter of the
Amalekites, and David had abode two days in Ziklag;

The Argument - This book and the former are called Samuel, because they contain the conception,
birth and the whole course of his life, and also the lives and acts of two kings, that is, of Saul and
David, whom he anointed and consecrated kings by the ordinance of God. The first book contains
those things which God brought to pass among this people under the government of Samuel and
Saul. This second book declares the noble acts of David, after the death of Saul when he began to
reign, to the end of his kingdom, and how it was expanded by him. It also contains the great
troubles and dangers he sustained both within his house and without, the horrible and dangerous
insurrections, uproars, and treasons wrought against him, partly by false counsellors, feigned friends
and flatterers and partly by his own children and people. By God's assistance he overcame all
difficulties, and enjoyed his kingdom in rest and peace. In the person of David the scripture sets
forth Christ Jesus the chief king, who came from David according to the flesh, and was persecuted
on every side with outward and inward enemies, as well in his own person, as in his members, but at
length he overcomes all his enemies, and gives his Church victory against all power both spiritual
and temporal; and so reigns with them, king for ever.
#BCV:2 Samuel 1:2
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 1:2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 1:2</verse></h3>



It came even to pass on the third day, that, behold, a man came out of the camp from Saul with (a)
his clothes rent, and earth upon his head: and [so] it was, when he came to David, that he fell to the
earth, and did obeisance.



(a) Seeming to lament the overthrow of the people of Israel.
#BCV:2 Samuel 1:6
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 1:6>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 1:6</verse></h3>



And the young man that told him said, (b) As I happened by chance upon mount Gilboa, behold,
Saul leaned upon his spear; and, lo, the chariots and horsemen followed hard after him.



(b) As I fled the chase.
#BCV:2 Samuel 1:8
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 1:8>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 1:8</verse></h3>



And he said unto me, Who [art] thou? And I answered him, I [am] an (c) Amalekite.

<page=642>(c) He was an Amalekite born, but renounced his country and joined with the Israelites.
#BCV:2 Samuel 1:9
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 1:9>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 1:9</verse></h3>



He said unto me again, Stand, I pray thee, upon me, and slay me: for anguish is come upon me,
because my (d) life [is] yet whole in me.



(d) I am sorry, because I am yet alive.
#BCV:2 Samuel 1:13
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 1:13>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 1:13</verse></h3>




(e) And David said unto the young man that told him, Whence [art] thou? And he answered, I [am]
the son of a stranger, an Amalekite.



(e) After the lamentation, he examined him again.
#BCV:2 Samuel 1:16
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 1:16>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 1:16</verse></h3>



And David said unto him, (f) Thy blood [be] upon thy head; for thy mouth hath testified against
thee, saying, I have slain the LORD'S anointed.



(f) You are justly punished for your fault.
#BCV:2 Samuel 1:18
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 1:18>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 1:18</verse></h3>




(Also he bade them teach the children of Judah (g) [the use of] the bow: behold, [it is] written in the
book of Jasher.)



(g) That they might be able to match their enemies the Philistines in that art.
#BCV:2 Samuel 1:19
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 1:19>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 1:19</verse></h3>



The beauty of Israel is (h) slain upon thy high places: how are the mighty fallen!



(h) Meaning Saul.
#BCV:2 Samuel 1:21
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 1:21>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 1:21</verse></h3>



Ye mountains of Gilboa, [let there be] no dew, neither [let there be] rain, upon you, nor (i) fields of
offerings: for there the shield of the mighty is vilely cast away, the shield of Saul, [as though he had]
not [been] anointed with oil.



(i) Let their fertile fields be barren, and bring forth no fruit to offer to the Lord.
#BCV:2 Samuel 1:23
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 1:23>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 1:23</verse></h3>

Saul and Jonathan [were] lovely and pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not (k)
divided: they were swifter than eagles, they were stronger than lions.

(k) They died both together in Gilboa.
#BCV:2 Samuel 1:24
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 1:24>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 1:24</verse></h3>

Ye daughters of Israel, weep over Saul, who clothed you in scarlet, (l) with [other] delights, who put
on ornaments of gold upon your apparel.



(l) As rich garments and costly jewels.
#BCV:2 Samuel 1:26
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 1:26>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 1:26</verse></h3>

I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan: very pleasant hast thou been unto me: thy love to me
was wonderful, passing the love of (m) women.

(m) Either toward their husbands or their children.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 2</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 2:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 2:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=644>And it came to pass after this, that David (a) enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up into any
of the cities of Judah? And the LORD said unto him, Go up. And David said, Whither shall I go up?
And he said, Unto (b) Hebron.

(a) By means of the high priest, (<bcv=I Sa 23:2>Sa1 23:2</bcv>; <bcv=2Sam 5:19>Sa2 5:19</bcv>).

(b) Which was also called Kirjatharba (<bcv=Jos 14:15>Jos 14:15</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 2:3
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 2:3>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 2:3</verse></h3>

And his men that [were] with (c) him did David bring up, every man with his household: and they
dwelt in the cities of Hebron.

(c) In the time of his persecution.
#BCV:2 Samuel 2:6
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 2:6>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 2:6</verse></h3>

And now the LORD shew kindness and (d) truth unto you: and I also will requite you this kindness,
because ye have done this thing.

(d) According to his promise, which is to repay those who are merciful.
#BCV:2 Samuel 2:7
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 2:7>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 2:7</verse></h3>



Therefore now let your hands be strengthened, and be ye valiant: for your master Saul is dead, and
also the house of Judah have anointed me (e) king over them.



(e) So that you shall not want a captain and a defender.
#BCV:2 Samuel 2:9
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 2:9>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 2:9</verse></h3>



And made him king over Gilead, and over the Ashurites, and over Jezreel, and over Ephraim, and
over Benjamin, and over (f) all Israel.



(f) Over the eleven tribes.
#BCV:2 Samuel 2:11
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 2:11>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 2:11</verse></h3>



And the time that David was king in Hebron over the house of Judah was seven years and six (g)
months.

<page=645>(g) After this he reigned over all the country 33 years, (<bcv=2Sam 5:5>Sa2 5:5</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 2:14
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 2:14>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 2:14</verse></h3>



And Abner said to Joab, Let the young men now arise, and (h) play before us. And Joab said, Let
them arise.



(h) Let us see how they can handle their weapons.
#BCV:2 Samuel 2:16
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 2:16>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 2:16</verse></h3>



And they caught every one his (i) fellow by the head, and [thrust] his sword in his fellow's side; so
they fell down together: wherefore that place was called Helkathhazzurim, which [is] in Gibeon.



(i) Meaning his adversary.
#BCV:2 Samuel 2:17
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 2:17>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 2:17</verse></h3>



And there was a very sore battle that day; and Abner was beaten, and the men of Israel, (k) before
the servants of David.



(k) After that these four and twenty were slain.
#BCV:2 Samuel 2:22
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 2:22>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 2:22</verse></h3>



And Abner said again to Asahel, Turn thee aside from following me: (l) wherefore should I smite
thee to the ground? how then should I hold up my face to Joab thy brother?



(l) Why do you provoke me to kill you?
#BCV:2 Samuel 2:23
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 2:23>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 2:23</verse></h3>



Howbeit he refused to turn aside: wherefore Abner with the hinder end of the spear smote him
under the (m) fifth [rib], that the spear came out behind him; and he fell down there, and died in the
same place: and it came to pass, [that] as many as came to the place where Asahel fell down and died
stood still.



(m) Some read, in those parts where the lively parts lie, the heart, lungs, liver, and gall bladder.
#BCV:2 Samuel 2:26
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 2:26>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 2:26</verse></h3>

<page=646>Then Abner called to Joab, and said, Shall the (n) sword devour for ever? knowest thou not that it
will be bitterness in the latter end? how long shall it be then, ere thou bid the people return from
following their brethren?



(n) Shall we not make an end of murdering?
#BCV:2 Samuel 2:27
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 2:27>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 2:27</verse></h3>



And Joab said, [As] God liveth, unless thou hadst (o) spoken, surely then in the morning the people
had gone up every one from following his brother.



(o) If you had not provoked them to battle, (<bcv=II Sa 2:14>Sa2 2:14</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 2:31
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 2:31>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 2:31</verse></h3>

But the servants of David had smitten of Benjamin, and of Abner's men, [so that] three (p)
hundred and threescore men died.

(p) Thus God would confirm David in his kingdom by the destruction of his adversaries.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 3</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 3:1
<h3><verse=2 Sam 3:1>2 Samuel 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=647>Now there was (a) long war between the house of Saul and the house of David: but David waxed
stronger and stronger, and the house of Saul waxed weaker and weaker.

(a) That is, without intermission enduring two years, which was the whole reign of Ishbosheth.
#BCV:2 Samuel 3:3
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 3:3>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 3:3</verse></h3>

And his second, (b) Chileab, of Abigail the wife of Nabal the Carmelite; and the third, Absalom the
son of Maacah the daughter of Talmai king of Geshur;

(b) Who is also called Daniel, (<bcv=1Ch 3:1>Ch1 3:1</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Samuel 3:5
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 3:5>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 3:5</verse></h3>


And the sixth, Ithream, by Eglah David's wife. These were born to David in (c) Hebron.



(c) Within seven years and six months.
#BCV:2 Samuel 3:8
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 3:8>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 3:8</verse></h3>



Then was Abner very wroth for the words of Ishbosheth, and said, [Am] I a (d) dog's head, which
against Judah do shew kindness this day unto the house of Saul thy father, to his brethren, and to
his friends, and have not delivered thee into the hand of David, that thou chargest me to day with a
fault concerning this woman?



(d) Do you esteem me no more than a dog, for all my service done to your father's house?
#BCV:2 Samuel 3:9
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 3:9>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 3:9</verse></h3>




(e) So do God to Abner, and more also, except, as the LORD hath sworn to David, even so I do to
him;



(e) We see how the wicked cannot abide being admonished about their faults, but seek their
displeasure, who go about to bring them from their wickedness.
#BCV:2 Samuel 3:17
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 3:17>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 3:17</verse></h3>



And Abner had (f) communication with the elders of Israel, saying, Ye sought for David in times
past [to be] king over you:

<page=648>(f) Rather for malice that he bore toward Ishbosheth, than for love he bore to David.
#BCV:2 Samuel 3:19
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 3:19>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 3:19</verse></h3>



And Abner also spake in the ears of Benjamin: and Abner went also to speak in the ears of David in
Hebron all that seemed good to Israel, and that seemed good to the whole (g) house of Benjamin.



(g) Who challenged the kingdom, because of their father Saul.
#BCV:2 Samuel 3:22
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 3:22>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 3:22</verse></h3>



And, behold, the servants of David and Joab came (h) from [pursuing] a troop, and brought in a
great spoil with them: but Abner [was] not with David in Hebron; for he had sent him away, and he
was gone in peace.



(h) From war against the Philistines.
#BCV:2 Samuel 3:24
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 3:24>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 3:24</verse></h3>



Then Joab came to the king, and said, (i) What hast thou done? behold, Abner came unto thee; why
[is] it [that] thou hast sent him away, and he is quite gone?



(i) Here appears the malicious mind of Joab, who would have had the king slay Abner for his private
grudge.
#BCV:2 Samuel 3:28
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 3:28>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 3:28</verse></h3>



And afterward when David heard [it], he said, I and my kingdom [are] (k) guiltless before the LORD
for ever from the blood of Abner the son of Ner:



(k) the Lord knows that I did not consent to his death.
#BCV:2 Samuel 3:30
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 3:30>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 3:30</verse></h3>



So Joab and (l) Abishai his brother slew Abner, because he had slain their brother Asahel at Gibeon
in the battle.



(l) Abishai is said to slay him with Joab, because he consented to the murder.
#BCV:2 Samuel 3:31
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 3:31>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 3:31</verse></h3>



And David said to Joab, and to all the people that [were] with him, Rend your clothes, and gird you
with sackcloth, and mourn (m) before Abner. And king David [himself] followed the bier.

<page=649>(m) Meaning before the corpse.
#BCV:2 Samuel 3:33
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 3:33>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 3:33</verse></h3>



And the king lamented over Abner, and said, Died Abner (n) as a fool dieth?



(n) He declares that Abner died not as a wretch or vile person, but as a valiant man might do, being
traitorously deceived by the wicked.
#BCV:2 Samuel 3:35
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 3:35>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 3:35</verse></h3>



And when all the people came to cause David to eat (o) meat while it was yet day, David sware,
saying, So do God to me, and more also, if I taste bread, or ought else, till the sun be down.



(o) According to their custom, which was to feast at burials.
#BCV:2 Samuel 3:36
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 3:36>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 3:36</verse></h3>



And all the people took notice [of it], and it (p) pleased them: as whatsoever the king did pleased all
the people.



(p) It is expedient sometimes not only to conceive inward sorrow, but also that it may appear to
others, so that they may be satisfied.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 4</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 4:1
<h3><verse=2 Sam 4:1>2 Samuel 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=650>And when Saul's (a) son heard that Abner was dead in Hebron, his hands were (b) feeble, and all the
Israelites were troubled.



(a) That is, Ishbosheth.



(b) Meaning, that he was discouraged.
#BCV:2 Samuel 4:2
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 4:2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 4:2</verse></h3>



And Saul's son had two men [that were] captains of bands: the name of the one [was] Baanah, and
the name of the other Rechab, the sons of Rimmon a Beerothite, of the children of Benjamin: (for



(c) Beeroth also was reckoned to Benjamin:



(c) This city Beeroth was in the tribe of Benjamin, (<bcv=Jos 18:25>Jos 18:25</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 4:3
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 4:3>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 4:3</verse></h3>



And the Beerothites fled to (d) Gittaim, and were sojourners there until this day.)



(d) After the death of Saul, for fear of the Philistines.
#BCV:2 Samuel 4:6
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 4:6>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 4:6</verse></h3>



And they came thither into the midst of the house, [as though] they (e) would have fetched wheat;
and they (f) smote him under the fifth [rib]: and Rechab and Baanah his brother escaped.



(e) They disguised themselves as merchants, who came to buy wheat.



(f) There is nothing so vile and dangerous, which the wicked will not undertake in hope of money
and favour.
#BCV:2 Samuel 4:11
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 4:11>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 4:11</verse></h3>



How (g) much more, when wicked men have slain a righteous person in his own house upon his bed?
shall I not therefore now require his blood of your hand, and take you away from the earth?

(g) In that neither the example of him that slew Saul, nor duty to their master, nor the innocency of
the person, nor reverence for the place, nor time moved them, they deserved most grievous
punishment.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 5</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 5:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 5:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=651>Then came all the tribes of Israel to David unto Hebron, and spake, saying, Behold, we [are] thy (a)
bone and thy flesh.



(a) We are of your kindred and closely related to you.
#BCV:2 Samuel 5:3
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 5:3>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 5:3</verse></h3>



So all the elders of Israel came to the king to Hebron; and king David made a league with them in
Hebron (b) before the LORD: and they anointed David king over Israel.



(b) That is, taking the Lord to witness: for the ark was still in Abinadab's house.
#BCV:2 Samuel 5:6
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 5:6>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 5:6</verse></h3>



And the king and his men went to Jerusalem unto the Jebusites, the inhabitants of the land: which
spake unto David, saying, Except thou take away the (c) blind and the lame, thou shalt not come in
hither: thinking, David cannot come in hither.



(c) The children of God called idols blind and lame guides: therefore the Jebusites meant that they
should prove that their gods were neither blind nor lame.
#BCV:2 Samuel 5:8
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 5:8>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 5:8</verse></h3>



And David said on that day, Whosoever getteth up to the gutter, and smiteth the Jebusites, and the
lame and the blind, [that are] hated of David's soul, [he shall be chief and captain]. Wherefore they
said, The blind and the lame shall not (d) come into the house.



(d) The idols should no longer enter into that place.
#BCV:2 Samuel 5:9
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 5:9>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 5:9</verse></h3>



So David dwelt in the fort, and called it the city of David. And David built round about from (e)
Millo and inward.



(e) He built from the town house round about to his own house (<bcv=1Ch 11:8>Ch1 11:8</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Samuel 5:19
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 5:19>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 5:19</verse></h3>

<page=652>And David (f) enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up to the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them
into mine hand? And the LORD said unto David, Go up: for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines
into thine hand.



(f) By Abiathar the priest.
#BCV:2 Samuel 5:22
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 5:22>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 5:22</verse></h3>



And the Philistines came up yet again, and spread themselves in the valley of (g) Rephaim.



(g) Meaning the valley of giants, which David called Baalperazim, because of his victory.
#BCV:2 Samuel 5:25
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 5:25>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 5:25</verse></h3>



And David did so, as the LORD had commanded him; and smote the Philistines from Geba until
thou come to (h) Gazer.



(h) Which was in the tribe of Benjamin, but the Philistines possessed it.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 6</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 6:2
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 6:2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 6:2</verse></h3>

<page=653>And David arose, and went with all the people that [were] with him from (a) Baale of Judah, to bring
up from thence the ark of God, whose name is called by the name of the LORD of hosts that
dwelleth [between] the cherubims.



(a) This was a city in Judah called also Kirjathjearim, (<bcv=Jos 15:9>Jos 15:9</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 6:3
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 6:3>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 6:3</verse></h3>



And they set the ark of God upon a new cart, and brought it out of the house of Abinadab that
[was] in (b) Gibeah: and Uzzah and Ahio, the sons of Abinadab, drave the new cart.



(b) which was a high place in the city of Baale.
#BCV:2 Samuel 6:5
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 6:5>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 6:5</verse></h3>



And David and all the house of Israel (c) played before the LORD on all manner of [instruments
made of] fir wood, even on harps, and on psalteries, and on timbrels, and on cornets, and on
cymbals.



(c) Praised God, and sang Psalms.
#BCV:2 Samuel 6:7
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 6:7>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 6:7</verse></h3>



And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Uzzah; and God (d) smote him there for [his] error;
and there he died by the ark of God.



(d) Here we see the danger it is to follow good intentions, or to do anything in God's service
without his express word.
#BCV:2 Samuel 6:10
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 6:10>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 6:10</verse></h3>



So David would not remove the ark of the LORD unto him into the city of David: but David
carried it aside into the house of Obededom (e) the Gittite.



(e) Who was a Levite, and had dwelt in Gittaim, (<bcv=1Ch 15:21>Ch1 15:21</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 6:12
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 6:12>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 6:12</verse></h3>

<page=654>And it was told king David, saying, The LORD hath blessed the house of Obededom, and all that
[pertaineth] unto him, because of the ark of God. So David went and (f) brought up the ark of God
from the house of Obededom into the city of David with gladness.

(f) Meaning, he caused the Levites to bear it according to the law.
#BCV:2 Samuel 6:14
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 6:14>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 6:14</verse></h3>



And David danced before the LORD with all [his] might; and David [was] girded with a linen (g)
ephod.



(g) With a garment like the priest's garment.
#BCV:2 Samuel 6:16
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 6:16>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 6:16</verse></h3>



And as the ark of the LORD came into the city of David, Michal Saul's daughter looked through a
window, and saw king David leaping and dancing before the LORD; and she (h) despised him in her
heart.



(h) The worldlings are not able to comprehend the emotions that move the children of God to
praise God in all kinds of ways.
#BCV:2 Samuel 6:20
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 6:20>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 6:20</verse></h3>



Then David returned to (i) bless his household. And Michal the daughter of Saul came out to meet
David, and said, How glorious was the king of Israel to day, who uncovered himself to day in the
eyes of the handmaids of his servants, as one of the vain fellows shamelessly uncovereth himself!



(i) That is, to pray for his house, as he had done for the people.
#BCV:2 Samuel 6:21
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 6:21>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 6:21</verse></h3>



And David said unto Michal, (k) [It was] before the LORD, which chose me before thy father, and
before all his house, to appoint me ruler over the people of the LORD, over Israel: therefore will I
play before the LORD.



(k) It was for no worldly affection, but only for that zeal that I bore to God's glory.
#BCV:2 Samuel 6:23
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 6:23>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 6:23</verse></h3>



Therefore Michal the daughter of Saul had (l) no child unto the day of her death.



(l) Which was a punishment because she mocked the servant of God.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 7</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 7:2
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 7:2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 7:2</verse></h3>

<page=655>That the king said unto Nathan the prophet, See now, I dwell in an house of cedar, but the ark of
God dwelleth within (a) curtains.

(a) Within the tabernacle covered with skins, (<bcv=Exo 26:7>Exo 26:7</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 7:5
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 7:5>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 7:5</verse></h3>



Go and tell my servant David, Thus saith the LORD, (b) Shalt thou build me an house for me to
dwell in?



(b) Meaning, he should not: yet Nathan speaking according to man's judgment and not by the spirit
of prophecy permitted him.
#BCV:2 Samuel 7:7
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 7:7>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 7:7</verse></h3>



In all [the places] wherein I have walked with all the children of Israel spake I a (c) word with any of
the tribes of Israel, whom I commanded to feed my people Israel, saying, Why build ye not me an
house of cedar?



(c) Concerning building a house: meaning without God's express word, nothing should be attempted.
#BCV:2 Samuel 7:9
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 7:9>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 7:9</verse></h3>



And I was with thee whithersoever thou wentest, and have cut off all thine enemies out of thy sight,
and have made thee a (d) great name, like unto the name of the great [men] that [are] in the earth.



(d) I have made you famous through all the world.
#BCV:2 Samuel 7:10
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 7:10>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 7:10</verse></h3>



Moreover I will appoint a place for my people Israel, and will plant them, that they may dwell in a
place of their own, and move (e) no more; neither shall the children of wickedness afflict them any
more, as beforetime,



(e) He promises them quietness, if they will walk in his fear and obedience.
#BCV:2 Samuel 7:14
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 7:14>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 7:14</verse></h3>



I will be his father, and he shall be my son. If he commit iniquity, I will chasten him with the (f) rod
of men, and with the stripes of the children of men:

<page=656>(f) That is, gently, as fathers use to chastise their children.
#BCV:2 Samuel 7:16
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 7:16>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 7:16</verse></h3>



And thine house and thy kingdom shall be established for ever before thee: thy throne shall be (g)
established for ever.



(g) This was begun in Solomon, as a figure, but accomplished in Christ.
#BCV:2 Samuel 7:19
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 7:19>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 7:19</verse></h3>



And this was yet a small thing in thy sight, O Lord GOD; but thou hast spoken also of thy servant's
house for a great while to come. And [is] this the manner of (h) man, O Lord GOD?



(h) Does this not come rather from your free mercy, than from any worthiness that can be in man?
#BCV:2 Samuel 7:23
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 7:23>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 7:23</verse></h3>



And what one nation in the earth [is] like thy people, [even] like Israel, whom God went to redeem
for a people to himself, and to make him a name, and to do for (i) you great things and terrible, for



(k) thy land, before thy people, which thou redeemedst to thee from Egypt, [from] the (l) nations
and their gods?



(i) O Israel.



(k) And inheritance, which is Israel.



(l) From the Egyptians and their idols.
#BCV:2 Samuel 7:24
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 7:24>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 7:24</verse></h3>



For thou hast (m) confirmed to thyself thy people Israel [to be] a people unto thee for ever: and
thou, LORD, art become their God.



(m) He shows that God's free election is the only reason why the Israelites were chosen to be his
people.
#BCV:2 Samuel 7:26
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 7:26>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 7:26</verse></h3>



And let thy name be magnified for ever, saying, The LORD of hosts [is] the God over Israel: and let
the (n) house of thy servant David be established before thee.



(n) This prayer is most effective when we chiefly seek God's glory, and the accomplishment of his
promise.
#BCV:2 Samuel 7:29
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 7:29>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 7:29</verse></h3>

<page=657>Therefore now let it please thee to bless the house of thy servant, that it may continue for ever
before thee: for thou, O Lord GOD, hast (o) spoken [it]: and with thy blessing let the house of thy
servant be blessed for ever.



(o) Therefore I firmly believe it will come to pass.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 8</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 8:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 8:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=658>And after this it came to pass, that David smote the Philistines, and subdued them: and David took
Methegammah out of the (a) hand of the Philistines.



(a) So that they paid no more tribute.
#BCV:2 Samuel 8:2
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 8:2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 8:2</verse></h3>



And he smote Moab, and measured them with a line, casting them down to the ground; even with (b)
two lines measured he to put to death, and with one full line to keep alive. And [so] the Moabites
became David's servants, [and] brought gifts.



(b) He slew two parts as it pleased him, and reserved the third.
#BCV:2 Samuel 8:6
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 8:6>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 8:6</verse></h3>



Then David put garrisons in (c) Syria of Damascus: and the Syrians became servants to David, (d)
[and] brought gifts. And the LORD preserved David whithersoever he went.



(c) In that part of Syria, where Damascus was.



(d) They paid yearly tribute.
#BCV:2 Samuel 8:7
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 8:7>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 8:7</verse></h3>



And David took the shields of gold that were on the servants of Hadadezer, and brought them to (e)
Jerusalem.



(e) For the use of the temple.
#BCV:2 Samuel 8:10
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 8:10>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 8:10</verse></h3>



Then Toi sent Joram his son unto king David, to salute him, and to (f) bless him, because he had
fought against Hadadezer, and smitten him: for Hadadezer had wars with Toi. And [Joram] brought
with him vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and vessels of brass:



(f) For seeing David victorious, he was glad to ask for peace.
#BCV:2 Samuel 8:15
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 8:15>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 8:15</verse></h3>



And David reigned over all Israel; and David executed (g) judgment and justice unto all his people.

<page=659>(g) He gave judgment in controversies, and was merciful toward the people.
#BCV:2 Samuel 8:18
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 8:18>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 8:18</verse></h3>



And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada [was over] both the (h) Cherethites and the Pelethites; and David's
sons were chief rulers.



(h) The Cherethites and Pelethites were as the king's guard, and had charge of his person.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 9</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 9:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 9:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=660>And David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may shew him kindness for

(a) Jonathan's sake?

(a) Because of my oath and promise made to Jonathan, (<bcv=I Sa 20:15>Sa1 20:15</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 9:3
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 9:3>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 9:3</verse></h3>

And the king said, [Is] there not yet any of the house of Saul, that I may shew the (b) kindness of
God unto him? And Ziba said unto the king, Jonathan hath yet a son, [which is] lame on [his] feet.



(b) Such mercy as shall be acceptable to God.
#BCV:2 Samuel 9:5
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 9:5>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 9:5</verse></h3>



Then king David sent, and fetched him out of the house of Machir, the son of (c) Ammiel, from
Lodebar.



(c) Who was also called Eliam the father of Bathsheba, David's wife.
#BCV:2 Samuel 9:8
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 9:8>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 9:8</verse></h3>



And he bowed himself, and said, What [is] thy servant, that thou shouldest look upon such (d) a
dead dog as I [am]?



(d) Meaning, a despised person.
#BCV:2 Samuel 9:10
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 9:10>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 9:10</verse></h3>



Thou therefore, and (e) thy sons, and thy servants, shall till the land for him, and thou shalt bring in
[the fruits], that thy master's son may have food to eat: but Mephibosheth thy master's son shall eat
bread alway at my table. Now Ziba had fifteen sons and twenty servants.



(e) Be ye provident overseers and governors of his lands, that they may be profitable.
#BCV:2 Samuel 9:11
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 9:11>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 9:11</verse></h3>



Then said Ziba unto the king, According to all that my lord the king hath commanded his servant,
so shall thy servant do. (f) As for Mephibosheth, [said the king], he shall eat at my table, as one of
the king's sons.

<page=661>(f) That Mephibosheth may have all things at commandment, as becomes a king's son.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 10</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 10:2
<h3><verse=2 Sam 10:2>Samuel 10:2</verse></h3>

<page=662>Then said David, I will shew kindness unto Hanun the son of Nahash, as his father (a) shewed
kindness unto me. And David sent to comfort him by the hand of his servants for his father. And
David's servants came into the land of the children of Ammon.



(a) The children of God are not unmindful of a benefit received.
#BCV:2 Samuel 10:3
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 10:3>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 10:3</verse></h3>



And the princes of the children of Ammon said unto Hanun their lord, Thinkest thou that David
doth honour thy father, that he hath sent comforters unto thee? hath not David [rather] sent his
servants unto thee, (b) to search the city, and to spy it out, and to overthrow it?



(b) Their arrogant malice would not allow them to see the simplicity of David's heart: therefore their
counsel turned to the destruction of their country.
#BCV:2 Samuel 10:6
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 10:6>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 10:6</verse></h3>



And when the children of Ammon saw that they (c) stank before David, the children of Ammon
sent and hired the Syrians of Bethrehob, and the Syrians of Zoba, twenty thousand footmen, and of
king Maacah a thousand men, and of Ishtob twelve thousand men.



(c) That they deserved David's displeasure, for the harm done to his ambassadors.
#BCV:2 Samuel 10:8
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 10:8>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 10:8</verse></h3>



And the children of Ammon came out, and put the battle in array at the entering in of the gate: and
the Syrians of (d) Zoba, and of Rehob, and Ishtob, and Maacah, [were] by themselves in the field.



(d) These were various parts of the country of Syria, by which it appears that the Syrians served
where they might have entertainment, as now the Sweitzers do.
#BCV:2 Samuel 10:12
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 10:12>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 10:12</verse></h3>



Be of good courage, and let us play the men for (e) our people, and for the cities of our God: and
the LORD do that which seemeth him good.



(e) Here it is declared why war should be undertaken: for the defence of true religion and God's
people.

#BCV:2 Samuel 10:17
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 10:17>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 10:17</verse></h3>

And when it was told David, he gathered (f) all Israel together, and passed over Jordan, and came to
Helam. And the Syrians set themselves in array against David, and fought with him.



(f) Meaning, the greatest part.
#BCV:2 Samuel 10:18
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 10:18>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 10:18</verse></h3>



And the Syrians fled before Israel; and David slew [the men of] (g) seven hundred chariots of the
Syrians, and forty thousand horsemen, and smote Shobach the captain of their host, who died there.



(g) Who were the chief and most principal: for in all he destroyed 7000, as in (<bcv=1Ch 19:18>Ch1 19:18</bcv>), or the
soldiers who were in 700 chariots.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 11</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 11:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 11:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=664>And it came to pass, after the year was (a) expired, at the time when kings go forth [to battle], that
David sent Joab, and his servants with him, and all Israel; and they destroyed the children of
Ammon, and besieged Rabbah. But David tarried still at Jerusalem.



(a) The year following about the spring time.
#BCV:2 Samuel 11:2
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 11:2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 11:2</verse></h3>



And it came to pass in an eveningtide, that David arose from off his (b) bed, and walked upon the
roof of the king's house: and from the roof he saw a woman washing herself; and the woman [was]
very beautiful to look upon.



(b) Upon which he used to rest in the afternoon, as was read of Ishbosheth in (<bcv=II Sa 4:7>Sa2 4:7</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 11:3
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 11:3>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 11:3</verse></h3>



And David sent and enquired after the woman. And [one] said, [Is] not this Bathsheba, the daughter
of Eliam, the wife of Uriah the (c) Hittite?



(c) Who was not an born an Israelite, but converted to the true religion.
#BCV:2 Samuel 11:5
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 11:5>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 11:5</verse></h3>



And the woman conceived, and sent and (d) told David, and said, I [am] with child.



(d) Fearing lest she be stoned according to the law.
#BCV:2 Samuel 11:8
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 11:8>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 11:8</verse></h3>



And David said to Uriah, (e) Go down to thy house, and wash thy feet. And Uriah departed out of
the king's house, and there followed him a mess [of meat] from the king.



(e) David thought that if Uriah lay with his wife, his sin might be covered.
#BCV:2 Samuel 11:11
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 11:11>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 11:11</verse></h3>



And Uriah said unto David, (f) The ark, and Israel, and Judah, abide in tents; and my lord Joab, and
the servants of my lord, are encamped in the open fields; shall I then go into mine house, to eat and
to drink, and to lie with my wife? [as] thou livest, and [as] thy soul liveth, I will not do this thing.

<page=665>(f) By this God would touch David's conscience, for seeing the fidelity and religion of his servant,
he would declare himself forgetful of God, and injurious to his servant.
#BCV:2 Samuel 11:13
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 11:13>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 11:13</verse></h3>



And when David had called him, he did eat and drink before him; and he made him (g) drunk: and
at even he went out to lie on his bed with the servants of his lord, but went not down to his house.



(g) He made him drink more liberally than he was wont to do, thinking by this he would have slept
with his wife.
#BCV:2 Samuel 11:15
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 11:15>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 11:15</verse></h3>



And he wrote in the letter, saying, (h) Set ye Uriah in the forefront of the hottest battle, and retire ye
from him, that he may be smitten, and die.



(h) Except God continually uphold us with his mighty Spirit, the most perfect fall headlong into all
vice and abomination.
#BCV:2 Samuel 11:21
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 11:21>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 11:21</verse></h3>



Who smote Abimelech the son of (i) Jerubbesheth? did not a woman cast a piece of a millstone
upon him from the wall, that he died in Thebez? why went ye nigh the wall? then say thou, Thy
servant Uriah the Hittite is dead also.

(i) Meaning Gideon, <bcv=Jdg 9:52-53>(Jdg 9:52-53).</bcv>

#BCV:2 Samuel 11:25
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 11:25>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 11:25</verse></h3>



Then David said unto the messenger, (k) Thus shalt thou say unto Joab, Let not this thing displease
thee, for the sword devoureth one as well as another: make thy battle more strong against the city,
and overthrow it: and encourage thou him.



(k) He conceals the truth from the messenger, so that neither his cruel commandment, nor Joab's
wicked obedience would be discovered.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 12</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 12:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=666>And the LORD sent (a) Nathan unto David. And he came unto him, and said unto him, There were
two men in one city; the one rich, and the other poor.



(a) Because David lay now drowned in sin, the loving mercy of God which does not allow his own
to perish, wakes his conscience by this story and brings him to repentance.
#BCV:2 Samuel 12:8
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:8>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:8</verse></h3>



And I gave thee thy master's (b) house, and thy master's (c) wives into thy bosom, and gave thee the
house of Israel and of Judah; and if [that had been] too little, I would moreover have given unto
thee (d) such and such things.



(b) For David succeeded Saul in his kingdom.



(c) The Jews take this to be Eglah and Michal, or Rizpah and Michal.



(d) That is, greater things than these: for God's love and benefits increase toward his own, if they do
not hinder him by their ingratitude.
#BCV:2 Samuel 12:9
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:9>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:9</verse></h3>



Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the LORD, to do evil in his sight? thou hast
killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife [to be] thy wife, and hast slain him
with the sword of the (e) children of Ammon.



(e) You have most cruelly given him into the hands of God's enemies.
#BCV:2 Samuel 12:11
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:11>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:11</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will
take thy wives before thine eyes, and give [them] unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives
in the sight of this (f) sun.



(f) Meaning openly, at noon.
#BCV:2 Samuel 12:13
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:13>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:13</verse></h3>



And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The
LORD also hath (g) put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.



(g) For the Lord seeks the sinner to turn to him.
#BCV:2 Samuel 12:14
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:14>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:14</verse></h3>

<page=667>Howbeit, because by this deed thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to (h)
blaspheme, the child also [that is] born unto thee shall surely die.



(h) In saying, that the Lord has appointed a wicked man to reign over his people.
#BCV:2 Samuel 12:16
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:16>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:16</verse></h3>



David therefore besought God for the child; and David fasted, and (i) went in, and lay all night upon
the earth.



(i) That is, to his private chamber.
#BCV:2 Samuel 12:17
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:17>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:17</verse></h3>



And the elders of his house arose, [and went] to him, to raise him up from the earth: but he would
not, neither did he eat (k) bread with them.



(k) Thinking by his constant prayer that God would have restored his child, but God had
determined otherwise.
#BCV:2 Samuel 12:20
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:20>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:20</verse></h3>



Then David (l) arose from the earth, and washed, and anointed [himself], and changed his apparel,
and came into the house of the LORD, and worshipped: then he came to his own house; and when
he required, they set bread before him, and he did eat.



(l) Showing that our lamentations should not be excessive, but moderate: and that we must praise
God in all his doings.
#BCV:2 Samuel 12:21
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:21>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:21</verse></h3>



Then (m) said his servants unto him, What thing [is] this that thou hast done? thou didst fast and
weep for the child, [while it was] alive; but when the child was dead, thou didst rise and eat bread.



(m) As they who did not consider that God grants many things to the sobs and tears of the faithful.
#BCV:2 Samuel 12:23
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:23>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:23</verse></h3>



But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? (n) can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but
he shall not return to me.

<page=668>(n) By this consideration he appeased his sorrow.
#BCV:2 Samuel 12:24
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:24>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:24</verse></h3>



And David comforted Bathsheba his wife, and went in unto her, and lay with her: and she bare a son,
and (o) he called his name Solomon: and the LORD loved him.



(o) That is, the Lord, (<bcv=1Ch 22:9>Ch1 22:9</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 12:25
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:25>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:25</verse></h3>



And he sent by the hand of Nathan the (p) prophet; and (q) he called his name Jedidiah, because of
the LORD.



(p) To call him Solomon.



(q) Meaning, David.
#BCV:2 Samuel 12:27
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:27>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:27</verse></h3>



And Joab sent messengers to David, and said, I have fought against Rabbah, and have taken the city
of (r) waters.



(r) That is, the chief city and where all the water pipes are, is as good as taken.
#BCV:2 Samuel 12:30
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:30>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:30</verse></h3>



And he took their king's crown from off his head, the weight whereof [was] a (s) talent of gold with
the precious stones: and it was [set] on David's head. And he brought forth the spoil of the city in
great abundance.



(s) That is, 60 pounds after the weight of the common talent.
#BCV:2 Samuel 12:31
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 12:31>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 12:31</verse></h3>



And he brought forth the people that [were] therein, and put [them] under (t) saws, and under
harrows of iron, and under axes of iron, and made them pass through the brickkiln: and thus did he
unto all the cities of the children of Ammon. So David and all the people returned unto Jerusalem.



(t) Signifying that as they were malicious enemies of God, so he put them to cruel death.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 13</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 13:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 13:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=669>And it came to pass after this, that Absalom the son of David had a fair sister, whose name [was] (a)
Tamar; and Amnon the son of David loved her.



(a) Tamar was Absalom's sister both by father and mother, and Amnon's only by father.
#BCV:2 Samuel 13:2
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 13:2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 13:2</verse></h3>



And Amnon was so vexed, that he fell sick for his sister Tamar; for she [was] a (b) virgin; and
Amnon thought it hard for him to do any thing to her.



(b) And therefore kept her father's house, as virgins were accustomed.
#BCV:2 Samuel 13:5
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 13:5>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 13:5</verse></h3>



And Jonadab said unto him, (c) Lay thee down on thy bed, and make thyself sick: and when thy
father cometh to see thee, say unto him, I pray thee, let my sister Tamar come, and give me meat,
and dress the meat in my sight, that I may see [it], and eat [it] at her hand.



(c) Here we see that there is no enterprise so wicked that it cannot be encouraged to further
wickedness.
#BCV:2 Samuel 13:6
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 13:6>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 13:6</verse></h3>



So Amnon lay down, and made himself sick: and when the king was come to see him, Amnon said
unto the king, I pray thee, let Tamar my sister come, and make me a couple of (d) cakes in my sight,
that I may eat at her hand.



(d) Meaning, some delicate and dainty meat.
#BCV:2 Samuel 13:9
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 13:9>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 13:9</verse></h3>



And she took a pan, and (e) poured [them] out before him; but he refused to eat. And Amnon said,
Have out all men from (f) me. And they went out every man from him.



(e) That is, she served them on a dish.



(f) For the wicked are ashamed to do that before men, which they are not afraid to commit in the
sight of God.
#BCV:2 Samuel 13:13
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 13:13>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 13:13</verse></h3>

<page=670>And I, whither shall I cause my shame to go? and as for thee, thou shalt be as one of (g) the fools in
Israel. Now therefore, I pray thee, speak unto the king; for he will not withhold me from thee.



(g) As a lewd and wicked person.
#BCV:2 Samuel 13:18
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 13:18>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 13:18</verse></h3>



And [she had] a garment of (h) divers colours upon her: for with such robes were the king's
daughters [that were] virgins apparelled. Then his servant brought her out, and bolted the door after
her.



(h) For that which was of various colours or pieces, in those days was greatly esteemed, (Gen
37:3; Jdg 5:30).
#BCV:2 Samuel 13:20
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 13:20>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 13:20</verse></h3>



And Absalom her brother said unto her, Hath Amnon thy brother been with thee? but (i) hold now
thy peace, my sister: he [is] thy brother; regard not this thing. So Tamar remained desolate in her
brother Absalom's house.



(i) For though he conceived sudden vengeance in his heart, yet he concealed it till an opportunity
arose, and comforted his sister.
#BCV:2 Samuel 13:23
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 13:23>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 13:23</verse></h3>



And it came to pass after two full years, that Absalom had sheepshearers in Baalhazor, which [is]
beside Ephraim: and (k) Absalom invited all the king's sons.



(k) That is, to a banquet, thinking by it to fulfil his wicked purpose.
#BCV:2 Samuel 13:26
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 13:26>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 13:26</verse></h3>



Then said Absalom, If not, I pray thee, let my brother (l) Amnon go with us. And the king said unto
him, Why should he go with thee?



(l) Pretending to the king that Amnon was most dear to him.
#BCV:2 Samuel 13:28
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 13:28>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 13:28</verse></h3>



Now Absalom had commanded his servants, saying, Mark ye now when Amnon's heart is merry
with wine, and when I say unto you, Smite Amnon; then kill him, fear not: have not (m) I
commanded you? be courageous, and be valiant.

<page=671>(m) Such is the pride of the wicked masters, that in all their wicked commandments they think to be
obeyed.
#BCV:2 Samuel 13:31
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 13:31>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 13:31</verse></h3>



Then the king arose, and tare his garments, and lay on the (n) earth; and all his servants stood by
with their clothes rent.



(n) Lamenting, as he that felt the wrath of God on his house, (<bcv=II Sa 12:10>Sa2 12:10</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 13:35
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 13:35>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 13:35</verse></h3>



And Jonadab said unto the king, Behold, the king's sons come: as thy servant said, (o) so it is.



(o) That only Amnon is dead.
#BCV:2 Samuel 13:37
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 13:37>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 13:37</verse></h3>



But Absalom fled, and went to (p) Talmai, the son of Ammihud, king of Geshur. And [David]
mourned for his son every day.



(p) For Maachah his mother was the daughter of this Talmai, (<bcv=II Sa 3:3>Sa2 3:3</bcv>).

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 14</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 14:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=672>Now Joab the son of Zeruiah perceived that the king's (a) heart [was] toward Absalom.



(a) That the king favoured him.
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:2
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:2</verse></h3>



And Joab sent to Tekoah, and fetched thence a wise woman, and said unto her, I pray thee, feign
thyself to be a mourner, and put on now mourning apparel, and (b) anoint not thyself with oil, but
be as a woman that had a long time mourned for the dead:



(b) In token of mourning: for they used anointing to seem cheerful.
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:6
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:6>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:6</verse></h3>



And thy handmaid had two (c) sons, and they two strove together in the field, and [there was] none
to part them, but the one smote the other, and slew him.



(c) Under this parable she describes the death of Amnon by Absalom.
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:7
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:7>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:7</verse></h3>



And, behold, the whole family is risen against thine handmaid, and they said, Deliver him that smote
his brother, that we may kill him, for the (d) life of his brother whom he slew; and we will destroy
the heir also: and so they shall quench my coal which is left, and shall not leave to my husband
[neither] name nor remainder upon the earth.



(d) Because he has slain his brother he ought to be slain according to the law, (<bcv=Gen 9:6>Gen 9:6</bcv>;<bcv=Exo 21:12> Exo 21:12</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:9
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:9>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:9</verse></h3>



And the woman of Tekoah said unto the king, My lord, O king, the (e) iniquity [be] on me, and on
my father's house: and the king and his throne [be] guiltless.



(e) Concerning the breach of the Law which punishes blood, let me bear the blame.
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:11
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:11>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:11</verse></h3>



Then said she, I pray thee, let the king (f) remember the LORD thy God, that thou wouldest not
suffer the revengers of blood to destroy any more, lest they destroy my son. And he said, [As] the
LORD liveth, there shall not one hair of thy son fall to the earth.

<page=673>(f) Swear that they will not revenge the blood, which are many in number.
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:13
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:13>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:13</verse></h3>



And the woman said, Wherefore then hast thou (g) thought such a thing against the people of God?
for the king doth speak this thing as one which is faulty, in that the king doth not fetch home again
his banished.



(g) Why do you give contrary sentence to your son Absalom?
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:14
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:14>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:14</verse></h3>



For we must needs die, and [are] as water spilt on the ground, which cannot be gathered up again;
neither doth God respect [any] person: yet doth he devise (h) means, that his banished be not
expelled from him.



(h) God has often provided ways (as sanctuaries) to save them, whom man judges worthy of death.
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:15
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:15>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:15</verse></h3>



Now therefore that I am come to speak of this thing unto my lord the king, [it is] because the
people (i) have made me afraid: and thy handmaid said, I will now speak unto the king; it may be
that the king will perform the request of his handmaid.



(i) For I thought they would kill my son.
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:17
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:17>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:17</verse></h3>



Then thine handmaid said, The word of my lord the king shall now be comfortable: for as an (k)
angel of God, so [is] my lord the king to discern good and bad: therefore the LORD thy God will
be with thee.



(k) Is of great wisdom to discern right from wrong.
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:19
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:19>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:19</verse></h3>



And the king said, [Is not] (l) the hand of Joab with thee in all this? And the woman answered and
said, [As] thy soul liveth, my lord the king, none can turn to the right hand or to the left from ought
that my lord the king hath spoken: for thy servant Joab, he bade me, and he put all these words in
the mouth of thine handmaid:



(l) Have you not done this by the counsel of Joab.
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:20
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:20>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:20</verse></h3>

To fetch about this (m) form of speech hath thy servant Joab done this thing: and my lord [is] wise,
according to the wisdom of an angel of God, to know all [things] that [are] in the earth.



(m) By speaking further in a parable than plainly.
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:21
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:21>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:21</verse></h3>



And the king said unto Joab, Behold now, I have (n) done this thing: go therefore, bring the young
man Absalom again.



(n) I have granted your request.
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:24
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:24>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:24</verse></h3>



And the king said, Let him (o) turn to his own house, and let him not see my face. So Absalom
returned to his own house, and saw not the king's face.



(o) Covering by this his affection, and showing some part of justice to please the people.
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:26
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:26>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:26</verse></h3>



And when he polled his head, (for it was at every year's end that he polled [it]: because [the hair] was
heavy on him, therefore he polled it:) he weighed the hair of his head at two hundred (p) shekels
after the king's weight.



(p) Which weighed 6 pounds 4 ounces after half an ounce the shekel.
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:30
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:30>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:30</verse></h3>



Therefore he said unto his servants, See, Joab's field is near mine, and he hath barley there; go and
set it (q) on fire. And Absalom's servants set the field on fire.



(q) The wicked are impatient in their affections, and spare no unlawful means to accomplish them.
#BCV:2 Samuel 14:32
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 14:32>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 14:32</verse></h3>



And Absalom answered Joab, Behold, I sent unto thee, saying, Come hither, that I may send thee to
the king, to say, Wherefore am I come from Geshur? [it had been] good for me [to have been] there
still: now therefore let me see the king's face; and (r) if there be [any] iniquity in me, let him kill me.



(r) If I have offended by revenging my sister's dishonour: thus the wicked justify themselves in their
evil.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 15</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 15:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:1</verse></h3>

<page=675>And it came to pass after this, that Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to (a)
run before him.



(a) Which were as a guard to set forth his estate.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:2
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:2</verse></h3>



And Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the gate: and it was [so], that when any
man that had a controversy came to the king for judgment, then Absalom called unto him, and said,
Of what city [art] thou? And he said, Thy servant [is] of one of the (b) tribes of Israel.



(b) That is, noting of what city or place he was.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:4
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:4>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:4</verse></h3>



Absalom said moreover, (c) Oh that I were made judge in the land, that every man which hath any
suit or cause might come unto me, and I would do him justice!



(c) Thus by slander, flattery and fair promises, the wicked seek preference.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:6
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:6>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:6</verse></h3>



And on this manner did Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for judgment: so Absalom (d)
stole the hearts of the men of Israel.



(d) By enticing them from his father to himself.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:7
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:7>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:7</verse></h3>



And it came to pass after (e) forty years, that Absalom said unto the king, I pray thee, let me go and
pay my vow, which I have vowed unto the LORD, in Hebron.



(e) Counting from the time that the Israelites had asked a king of Samuel.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:8
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:8>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:8</verse></h3>



For thy servant vowed a vow while I abode at Geshur in Syria, saying, If the LORD shall bring me
again indeed to Jerusalem, then I will (f) serve the LORD.



(f) By offering a peace-offering, which was lawful to do in any place.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:11
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:11>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:11</verse></h3>

<page=676>And with Absalom went two hundred men out of Jerusalem, [that were] (g) called; and they went in
their simplicity, and they knew not any thing.



(g) And bid to his feast in Hebron.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:14
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:14>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:14</verse></h3>



And David said unto all his servants that [were] with him at Jerusalem, Arise, and let us flee; for we
shall not [else] escape from (h) Absalom: make speed to depart, lest he overtake us suddenly, and
bring evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword.



(h) Whose heart he saw that Satan had so possessed that he would leave no mischief unattempted.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:17
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:17>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:17</verse></h3>



And the king went forth, and all the people after him, and tarried in a place that was (i) far off.



(i) That is, from Jerusalem.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:18
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:18>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:18</verse></h3>



And all his servants passed on beside him; and all the (k) Cherethites, and all the Pelethites, and all
the Gittites, six hundred men which came after him from Gath, passed on before the king.



(k) These were as the king's guard, or as some write, his counsellors.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:19
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:19>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:19</verse></h3>



Then said the king to (l) Ittai the Gittite, Wherefore goest thou also with us? return to thy place, and
abide with the king: for thou [art] a stranger, and also an exile.



(l) Who as some write was the king's son of Gath.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:20
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:20>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:20</verse></h3>



Whereas thou camest [but] yesterday, should I this day make thee go up and down with us? seeing I
go whither I may, return thou, and take back thy (m) brethren: mercy and (n) truth [be] with thee.



(m) Meaning, those of his family.



(n) God require of you your friendship and fidelity.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:23
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:23>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:23</verse></h3>

And all the country wept with a loud voice, and (o) all the people passed over: the king also himself
passed over the brook Kidron, and all the people passed over, toward the way of the wilderness.



(o) That is, the four hundred men.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:24
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:24>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:24</verse></h3>



And lo Zadok also, and all the Levites [were] with him, (p) bearing the ark of the covenant of God:
and they set down the ark of God; and Abiathar went (q) up, until all the people had done passing
out of the city.



(p) Which was the charge, of the Kohathites, (<bcv=Num 4:4>Num 4:4</bcv>).



(q) To stand by the ark.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:26
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:26>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:26</verse></h3>



But if he thus say, I have no delight in thee; behold, (r) [here am] I, let him do to me as seemeth
good unto him.



(r) The faithful in all their afflictions show themselves obedient to God's will.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:30
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:30>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:30</verse></h3>



And David went up by the ascent of [mount] Olivet, and wept as he went up, and had his head (s)
covered, and he went barefoot: and all the people that [was] with him covered every man his head,
and they went up, weeping as they went up.



(s) With ashes and dust in sign of sorrow.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:31
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:31>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:31</verse></h3>



And [one] told David, saying, Ahithophel [is] among the conspirators with Absalom. And David said,
O LORD, I pray thee, turn the (t) counsel of Ahithophel into foolishness.



(t) The counsel of the crafty worldlings does more harm than the open force of the enemy.
#BCV:2 Samuel 15:34
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 15:34>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 15:34</verse></h3>



But if thou return to the city, and say unto Absalom, I will be thy (u) servant, O king; [as] I [have
been] thy father's servant hitherto, so [will] I now also [be] thy servant: then mayest thou for me
defeat the counsel of Ahithophel.

<page=678>(u) Though Hushai was deceitful here at the king's request, we may not use this example to excuse
our deceit.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 16</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 16:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 16:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=679>And when David was a little past the (a) top [of the hill], behold, Ziba the servant of Mephibosheth
met him, with a couple of asses saddled, and upon them two hundred [loaves] of bread, and an
hundred bunches of raisins, and an hundred of summer fruits, and a bottle of wine.



(a) Which was the hill of olives, (<bcv=II Sa 15:30>Sa2 15:30</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 16:2
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 16:2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 16:2</verse></h3>



And the king said unto Ziba, What meanest thou by these? And Ziba said, The (b) asses [be] for the
king's household to ride on; and the bread and summer fruit for the young men to eat; and the wine,
that such as be faint in the wilderness may drink.



(b) Commonly there are no viler traitors than they, who under the pretence of friendship accuse
others.
#BCV:2 Samuel 16:5
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 16:5>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 16:5</verse></h3>



And when king David came to (c) Bahurim, behold, thence came out a man of the family of the
house of Saul, whose name [was] Shimei, the son of Gera: he came forth, and cursed still as he
came.



(c) Which was a city in the tribe of Benjamin.
#BCV:2 Samuel 16:6
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 16:6>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 16:6</verse></h3>



And he cast stones at David, and at all the servants of king David: and all the people and all the
mighty men [were] on his (d) right hand and on his left.



(d) That is, round about him.
#BCV:2 Samuel 16:8
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 16:8>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 16:8</verse></h3>



The LORD hath returned upon thee all the (e) blood of the house of Saul, in whose stead thou hast
reigned; and the LORD hath delivered the kingdom into the hand of Absalom thy son: and, behold,
thou [art taken] in thy mischief, because thou [art] a bloody man.



(e) Reproaching him, as though by his means Ishbosheth and Abner were slain.
#BCV:2 Samuel 16:10
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 16:10>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 16:10</verse></h3>

<page=680>And the king said, What have I to do with you, ye sons of Zeruiah? so let him curse, because the
LORD hath (f) said unto him, Curse David. Who shall then say, Wherefore hast thou done so?



(f) David felt that this was the judgment of God for his sin, and therefore humbles himself to his
rod.
#BCV:2 Samuel 16:12
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 16:12>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 16:12</verse></h3>



It may be that the LORD will look on mine affliction, and that the LORD will (g) requite me good
for his cursing this day.



(g) Meaning, that the Lord will send comfort to his, when they are oppressed.
#BCV:2 Samuel 16:14
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 16:14>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 16:14</verse></h3>



And the king, and all the people that [were] with him, came weary, and refreshed themselves (h)
there.



(h) That is, at Bahurim.
#BCV:2 Samuel 16:17
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 16:17>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 16:17</verse></h3>



And Absalom said to Hushai, [Is] this thy kindness to thy (i) friend? why wentest thou not with thy
friend?



(i) Meaning, David.
#BCV:2 Samuel 16:21
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 16:21>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 16:21</verse></h3>



And (k) Ahithophel said unto Absalom, Go in unto thy father's concubines, which he hath left to
keep the house; and all Israel shall hear that thou art abhorred of thy father: then shall the hands of
all that [are] with thee be strong.



(k) Suspecting the change of the kingdom, and so his own overthrow, he gives such counsel as might
most hinder his father's reconciliation: and also declare to the people that Absalom was in highest
authority.
#BCV:2 Samuel 16:23
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 16:23>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 16:23</verse></h3>



And the counsel of Ahithophel, which he counselled in those days, [was] as if a man had (l)
enquired at the oracle of God: so [was] all the counsel of Ahithophel both with David and with
Absalom.



(l) It was so esteemed for the success of it.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 17</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 17:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 17:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 17:1</verse></h3>

<page=681>Moreover Ahithophel said unto Absalom, (a) Let me now choose out twelve thousand men, and I
will arise and pursue after David this night:



(a) The wicked are so greedy to execute their malice, that they leave no opportunity that may further
the same.
#BCV:2 Samuel 17:3
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 17:3>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 17:3</verse></h3>



And I will bring back all the people unto thee: (b) the man whom thou seekest [is] as if all returned:
[so] all the people shall be in peace.



(b) Meaning David.
#BCV:2 Samuel 17:7
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 17:7>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 17:7</verse></h3>



And Hushai said unto Absalom, The counsel that Ahithophel hath given [is] not (c) good at this
time.



(c) Hushai shows himself faithful to David, in that he reproves this wicked counsel and purpose.
#BCV:2 Samuel 17:14
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 17:14>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 17:14</verse></h3>



And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the Archite [is] better than the
counsel of Ahithophel. For the LORD had appointed to defeat the (d) good counsel of Ahithophel,
to the intent that the LORD might (e) bring evil upon Absalom.



(d) That counsel which seemed good at first to Absalom, (<bcv=II Sa 17:4>Sa2 17:4</bcv>).



(e) For by the counsel of Hushai, he went to the battle, where he was destroyed.
#BCV:2 Samuel 17:16
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 17:16>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 17:16</verse></h3>



Now therefore send quickly, and tell David, saying, Lodge not this night in the plains of the
wilderness, but speedily pass (f) over; lest the king be swallowed up, and all the people that [are] with
him.



(f) That is, over Jordan.
#BCV:2 Samuel 17:17
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 17:17>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 17:17</verse></h3>

<page=682>Now Jonathan and Ahimaaz stayed by Enrogel; for they might not be seen to come into the city:
and a wench went and told (g) them; and they went and told king David.



(g) Meaning, the message from their fathers.
#BCV:2 Samuel 17:19
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 17:19>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 17:19</verse></h3>



And (h) the woman took and spread a covering over the well's mouth, and spread ground corn
thereon; and the thing was not known.



(h) Thus God sends help to his, in their greatest dangers.
#BCV:2 Samuel 17:20
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 17:20>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 17:20</verse></h3>



And when Absalom's servants came to the woman to the house, they said, Where [is] Ahimaaz and
Jonathan? And the woman said unto them, They be gone over the (i) brook of water. And when
they had sought and could not find [them], they returned to Jerusalem.



(i) The Chaldee text reads: Now they have passed the Jordan.
#BCV:2 Samuel 17:21
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 17:21>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 17:21</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, after they were departed, that they came up out of the well, and went and told
king David, and said unto David, Arise, and pass quickly over the water: for (k) thus hath
Ahithophel counselled against you.



(k) That is, to pursue you with all haste.
#BCV:2 Samuel 17:22
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 17:22>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 17:22</verse></h3>



Then David arose, and all the people that [were] with him, and they passed over Jordan: (l) by the
morning light there lacked not one of them that was not gone over Jordan.



(l) They travelled all night, and by morning had all their company passed over.
#BCV:2 Samuel 17:23
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 17:23>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 17:23</verse></h3>



And when Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled [his] ass, and arose, and gat
him home to his house, to his city, and put his household in order, and (m) hanged himself, and died,
and was buried in the sepulchre of his father.



(m) God's just vengeance even in this life is poured on them who are enemies, traitors, or
persecutors of his Church.
#BCV:2 Samuel 17:25
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 17:25>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 17:25</verse></h3>

And Absalom made Amasa captain of the host instead of Joab: which Amasa [was] a man's son,
whose name [was] Ithra an Israelite, that went in to Abigail the daughter of (n) Nahash, sister to
Zeruiah Joab's mother.



(n) Who was also called Jesse, David's father.
#BCV:2 Samuel 17:28
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 17:28>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 17:28</verse></h3>




(o) Brought beds, and basons, and earthen vessels, and wheat, and barley, and flour, and parched
[corn], and beans, and lentiles, and parched [pulse],



(o) God shows himself most liberal to his, when they seem to be utterly destitute.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 18</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 18:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 18:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 18:1</verse></h3>

<page=684>And David (a) numbered the people that [were] with him, and set captains of thousands and
captains of hundreds over them.



(a) For certain of the Reubenites, Gadites, and of the half tribe could not bear the insolence of the
son against the father, and therefore joined with David.
#BCV:2 Samuel 18:3
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 18:3>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 18:3</verse></h3>



But the people answered, Thou shalt not go forth: for if we flee away, they will not care for us;
neither if half of us die, will they care for us: but (b) now [thou art] worth ten thousand of us:
therefore now [it is] better that thou succour us out of the city.



(b) Signifying that a good governor is so dear to his people that they would rather lose their lives
than have anything happen to him.
#BCV:2 Samuel 18:6
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 18:6>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 18:6</verse></h3>



So the people went out into the field against Israel: and the battle was in the (c) wood of Ephraim;



(c) So called, because the Ephraimites (as some say) fed their cattle beyond Jordan in this wood.
#BCV:2 Samuel 18:16
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 18:16>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 18:16</verse></h3>



And Joab (d) blew the trumpet, and the people returned from pursuing after Israel: for Joab held
back the people.



(d) For he had pity on the people, who were seduced by Absalom's flattery.
#BCV:2 Samuel 18:17
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 18:17>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 18:17</verse></h3>



And they took Absalom, and cast him into a great (e) pit in the wood, and laid a very great heap of
stones upon him: and all Israel fled every one to his tent.



(e) Thus God turned his vain glory to shame.
#BCV:2 Samuel 18:18
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 18:18>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 18:18</verse></h3>



Now Absalom in his lifetime had taken and reared up for himself a pillar, which [is] in the king's
dale: for he said, I have no (f) son to keep my name in remembrance: and he called the pillar after his
own name: and it is called unto this day, Absalom's place.

<page=685>(f) It seemed that God had punished him by taking away his children, (<bcv=2Sam 14:27>Sa2 14:27</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 18:20
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 18:20>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 18:20</verse></h3>



And Joab said unto him, Thou (g) shalt not bear tidings this day, but thou shalt bear tidings another
day: but this day thou shalt bear no tidings, because the king's son is dead.



(g) For Joab bore a good affection to Ahimaaz and doubted how David would take the report of
Absalom's death.
#BCV:2 Samuel 18:24
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 18:24>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 18:24</verse></h3>



And David sat between the two (h) gates: and the watchman went up to the roof over the gate unto
the wall, and lifted up his eyes, and looked, and behold a man running alone.



(h) He sat in the gate of the city of Mahanaim.
#BCV:2 Samuel 18:27
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 18:27>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 18:27</verse></h3>



And the watchman said, Me thinketh the running of the foremost is like the running of Ahimaaz
the son of Zadok. And the king said, He [is] a (i) good man, and cometh with good tidings.



(i) He had experienced his fidelity, (<bcv=II Sa 17:21>Sa2 17:21</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 18:29
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 18:29>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 18:29</verse></h3>



And the king said, Is the young man Absalom safe? And Ahimaaz answered, When Joab sent the
king's (k) servant, and [me] thy servant, I saw a great tumult, but I knew not what [it was].



(k) That is, Cushi, who was an Ethiopian.
#BCV:2 Samuel 18:33
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 18:33>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 18:33</verse></h3>



And the king was much (l) moved, and went up to the chamber over the gate, and wept: and as he
went, thus he said, O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! would God I had died for thee, O
Absalom, my son, my son!



(l) Because he considers both the judgment of God against his sin, and could not otherwise hide his
fatherly affection for his son.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 19</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 19:4
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:4>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:4</verse></h3>

<page=686>But the king (a) covered his face, and the king cried with a loud voice, O my son Absalom, O
Absalom, my son, my son!



(a) As they do that mourn.
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:5
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:5>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:5</verse></h3>



And Joab came into the (b) house to the king, and said, Thou hast shamed this day the faces of all
thy servants, which this day have saved thy life, and the lives of thy sons and of thy daughters, and
the lives of thy wives, and the lives of thy concubines;



(b) At Mahanaim.
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:8
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:8>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:8</verse></h3>



Then the king arose, and sat in the (c) gate. And they told unto all the people, saying, Behold, the
king doth sit in the gate. And all the people came before the king: for Israel had fled every man to
his tent.



(c) Where the most resort of the people haunted.
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:9
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:9>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:9</verse></h3>



And all the people were at (d) strife throughout all the tribes of Israel, saying, The king saved us out
of the hand of our enemies, and he delivered us out of the hand of the Philistines; and now he is
fled out of the land for Absalom.



(d) Everyone blamed another and strove who should first bring him home.
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:11
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:11>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:11</verse></h3>



And king David sent to Zadok and to Abiathar the (e) priests, saying, Speak unto the elders of Judah,
saying, Why are ye the last to bring the king back to his house? seeing the speech of all Israel is
come to the king, [even] to his house.



(e) That they should reprove the negligence of the elders, seeing the people were so forward.
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:13
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:13>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:13</verse></h3>

<page=687>And say ye to Amasa, [Art] thou not of my bone, and of my flesh? God do so to me, and more also,
if thou be not captain of the host before me continually in the (f) room of Joab.



(f) By this policy David thought that by winning the captain, he would have the hearts of all the
people.
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:16
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:16>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:16</verse></h3>



And (g) Shimei the son of Gera, a Benjamite, which [was] of Bahurim, hasted and came down with
the men of Judah to meet king David.



(g) Who had before reviled him, (<bcv=II Sa 16:13>Sa2 16:13</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:19
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:19>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:19</verse></h3>



And said unto the king, Let not my lord impute iniquity unto me, neither do thou remember that
which thy servant did (h) perversely the day that my lord the king went out of Jerusalem, that the
king should take it to his heart.



(h) For in his adversity he was his most cruel enemy, and now in his prosperity, seeks by flattery to
creep into favour.
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:20
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:20>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:20</verse></h3>



For thy servant doth know that I have sinned: therefore, behold, I am come the first this day of all
the house of (i) Joseph to go down to meet my lord the king.



(i) By Joseph he means Ephraim, Manasseh and Benjamin (of which he was) because those three
were under one standard, (<bcv=Num 2:18>Num 2:18</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:23
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:23>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:23</verse></h3>



Therefore the king said unto Shimei, Thou shalt not (k) die. And the king sware unto him.



(k) By my hands, or during my life, see (<bcv=I Ki 2:8>Kg1 2:8</bcv>,<bcv=I Kings 2:9>9</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:25
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:25>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:25</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when (l) he was come to Jerusalem to meet the king, that the king said unto
him, Wherefore wentest not thou with me, Mephibosheth?



(l) When Mephibosheth being at Jerusalem had met the King.
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:27
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:27>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:27</verse></h3>

And he hath slandered thy servant unto my lord the king; but my lord the king [is] as an (m) angel of
God: do therefore [what is] good in thine eyes.



(m) Able for his wisdom to judge in all matters.
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:28
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:28>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:28</verse></h3>



For all [of] my father's house were (n) but dead men before my lord the king: yet didst thou set thy
servant among them that did eat at thine own table. What right therefore have I yet to cry any more
unto the king?



(n) Worthy to die for Saul's cruelty to you.
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:29
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:29>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:29</verse></h3>



And the king said unto him, Why speakest thou any more of thy matters? I have said, Thou and
Ziba divide the (o) land.



(o) David did evil in taking his land from him before he knew the cause, but much worse, that
knowing the truth, he did not restore them.
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:35
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:35>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:35</verse></h3>



I [am] this day fourscore years old: [and] can I discern between good and evil? can thy servant taste
what I eat or what I drink? can I hear any more the voice of singing men and singing women?
wherefore then should thy servant be yet a (p) burden unto my lord the king?



(p) He thought it was not fitting to receive benefits from him to whom he was not able to do service
again.
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:37
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:37>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:37</verse></h3>



Let thy servant, I pray thee, turn back again, that I may die in mine own city, [and be buried] by the
grave of my father and of my mother. But behold thy servant (q) Chimham; let him go over with
my lord the king; and do to him what shall seem good unto thee.



(q) My son.
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:40
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:40>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:40</verse></h3>



Then the king went on to (r) Gilgal, and Chimham went on with him: and all the people of Judah
conducted the king, and also half the people of (s) Israel.

<page=689>(r) Where the tribe of Judah waited to receive him.


(s) Who had taken the side of the king.
#BCV:2 Samuel 19:41
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 19:41>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 19:41</verse></h3>



And, behold, all the men of Israel came to the king, and said unto the king, Why have our brethren
the men of Judah stolen thee away, and have brought the king, and his household, and all David's
men with him, over (t) Jordan?



(t) Toward Jerusalem.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 20</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 20:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 20:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=690>And there happened to be (a) there a man of Belial, whose name [was] Sheba, the son of Bichri, a
Benjamite: and he blew a trumpet, and said, We have no part in (b) David, neither have we
inheritance in the son (c) of Jesse: every man to his tents, O Israel.



(a) Where the ten tribes contended against Judah.



(b) As they of Judah say.



(c) He thought by speaking contemptuously of the king, to stir the people farther to sedition, or else
by causing Israel to depart, thought that they of Judah would have esteemed him less.
#BCV:2 Samuel 20:2
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 20:2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 20:2</verse></h3>



So every man of Israel went up from after David, [and] followed Sheba the son of Bichri: but the
men of Judah clave unto their king, from (d) Jordan even to Jerusalem.



(d) From Gilgal which was near Jordan.
#BCV:2 Samuel 20:4
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 20:4>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 20:4</verse></h3>



Then said the king to (e) Amasa, Assemble me the men of Judah within three days, and be thou here
present.



(e) Who was his chief captain in Joab's place, (<bcv=II Sa 19:13>Sa2 19:13</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 20:6
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 20:6>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 20:6</verse></h3>



And David said to Abishai, Now shall Sheba the son of Bichri do us more harm than [did] Absalom:
take thou thy (f) lord's servants, and pursue after him, lest he get him fenced cities, and escape us.



(f) Either those who had been under Joab or David's men.
#BCV:2 Samuel 20:8
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 20:8>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 20:8</verse></h3>



When they [were] at the great stone which [is] in Gibeon, Amasa went before them. And Joab's (g)
garment that he had put on was girded unto him, and upon it a girdle [with] a sword fastened upon
his loins in the sheath thereof; and as he went forth it fell out.



(g) Which was his coat, that he used to wear in the wars.
#BCV:2 Samuel 20:11
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 20:11>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 20:11</verse></h3>

And one of Joab's men (h) stood by him, and said, He that favoureth Joab, and he that [is] for David,
[let him go] after Joab.



(h) He stood by Amasa at Joab's appointment.
#BCV:2 Samuel 20:14
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 20:14>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 20:14</verse></h3>



And he went through all the tribes of Israel unto Abel, and to (i) Bethmaachah, and all the Berites:
and they were gathered together, and went also after him.



(i) To the city Abel, which was near Bethmaachah.
#BCV:2 Samuel 20:15
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 20:15>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 20:15</verse></h3>



And they came and besieged him in Abel of Bethmaachah, and they cast up a bank against the city,
and it stood in the trench: and all the people that [were] with Joab (k) battered the wall, to throw it
down.



(k) That is, he went about to overthrow it.
#BCV:2 Samuel 20:18
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 20:18>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 20:18</verse></h3>



Then she spake, saying, (l) They were wont to speak in old time, saying, They shall surely ask
[counsel] at Abel: and so they ended [the matter].



(l) She shows that the old custom was not to destroy a city before peace was offered, (<bcv=Deu 20:10-11>Deu 20:10-11</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 20:19
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 20:19>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 20:19</verse></h3>



I [am (m) one of them that are] peaceable [and] faithful in Israel: thou seekest to destroy a city and a
mother in Israel: why wilt thou swallow up the inheritance of the LORD?



(m) She speaks in the name of the city.
#BCV:2 Samuel 20:21
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 20:21>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 20:21</verse></h3>



The (n) matter [is] not so: but a man of mount Ephraim, Sheba the son of Bichri by name, hath
lifted up his hand against the king, [even] against David: deliver him only, and I will depart from the
city. And the woman said unto Joab, Behold, his head shall be thrown to thee over the wall.



(n) Hearing his fault, he gave in to reason, and required only he that was instigator of the treason.
#BCV:2 Samuel 20:26
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 20:26>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 20:26</verse></h3>

And Ira also the Jairite was a (o) chief ruler about David.



(o) Either in dignity or familiarity.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 21</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 21:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 21:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 21:1</verse></h3>

<page=693>Then there was a famine in the days of David three years, year after year; and David enquired of the
LORD. And the LORD answered, [It is] for Saul, and for [his] bloody house, because he slew the (a)
Gibeonites.



(a) Thinking to gratify the people, because these were not of the seed of Abraham.
#BCV:2 Samuel 21:3
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 21:3>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 21:3</verse></h3>



Wherefore David said unto the Gibeonites, (b) What shall I do for you? and wherewith shall I make
the atonement, that ye may bless the inheritance of the LORD?



(b) With what may your wrath be appeased, that you may pray to God to remove this plague from
his people.
#BCV:2 Samuel 21:4
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 21:4>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 21:4</verse></h3>



And the Gibeonites said unto him, We will have no silver nor gold of Saul, nor of his house; neither
for us shalt thou kill (c) any man in Israel. And he said, What ye shall say, [that] will I do for you.



(c) Save only of Saul's stock.
#BCV:2 Samuel 21:6
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 21:6>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 21:6</verse></h3>



Let seven men of his (d) sons be delivered unto us, and we will hang them up (e) unto the LORD in
Gibeah of Saul, [whom] the LORD did choose. And the king said, I will give [them].



(d) Of Saul's kinsmen.



(e) To pacify the Lord.
#BCV:2 Samuel 21:8
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 21:8>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 21:8</verse></h3>



But the king took the two sons of Rizpah the daughter of Aiah, whom she bare unto Saul, Armoni
and Mephibosheth; and the five sons of (f) Michal the daughter of Saul, whom she brought up for
Adriel the son of Barzillai the Meholathite:



(f) Here Michal is named for Merab Adriel's wife, as it appears in (<bcv=I Sa 18:19>Sa1 18:19</bcv>) for Michal was the wife
of Paltiel, (<bcv=I Sa 25:44>Sa1 25:44</bcv>) and never had a child (<bcv=II Sa 6:23>Sa2 6:23</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 21:9
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 21:9>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 21:9</verse></h3>

<page=694>And he delivered them into the hands of the Gibeonites, and they hanged them in the hill before the
LORD: and they fell [all] seven together, and were put to death in the days of harvest, in the (g) first
[days], in the beginning of barley harvest.



(g) Which was in the month Abib or Nisan which contained part of March and part of April.
#BCV:2 Samuel 21:10
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 21:10>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 21:10</verse></h3>



And Rizpah the daughter of Aiah took (h) sackcloth, and spread it for her upon the rock, from the
beginning of harvest until (i) water dropped upon them out of heaven, and suffered neither the
birds of the air to rest on them by day, nor the beasts of the field by night.



(h) To make her a tent in which she prayed to God to turn away his wrath.



(i) Because drought was the cause of this famine, God by sending rain showed that he was pacified.
#BCV:2 Samuel 21:14
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 21:14>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 21:14</verse></h3>



And the bones of Saul and Jonathan his son buried they in the country of Benjamin in Zelah, in the
sepulchre of Kish his father: and they performed all that the king commanded. And after that God
was (k) intreated for the land.



(k) For where the government permits faults to go unpunished, there the plague of God lies on the
land.
#BCV:2 Samuel 21:16
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 21:16>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 21:16</verse></h3>



And Ishbibenob, which [was] of the sons of (l) the giant, the weight of whose spear [weighed] three
hundred (m) [shekels] of brass in weight, he being girded with a new [sword], thought to have slain
David.



(l) Or, of Haraphah, the race of giants.



(m) Which amounts to 9 3/4 pounds.
#BCV:2 Samuel 21:17
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 21:17>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 21:17</verse></h3>

But Abishai the son of Zeruiah succoured him, and smote the Philistine, and killed him. Then the
men of David sware unto him, saying, Thou shalt go no more out with us to battle, that thou
quench not the (n) light of Israel.

(n) For the glory and wealth of the country stands in the preservation of the godly magistrate.
#BCV:2 Samuel 21:18
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 21:18>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 21:18</verse></h3>

<page=695>And it came to pass after this, that there was again a battle with the Philistines at (o) Gob: then
Sibbechai the Hushathite slew Saph, which [was] of the sons of the giant.

(o) Called Gezer, and Saph is called Sippai, <bcv=1Ch 20:4>Ch1 20:4</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Samuel 21:19
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 21:19>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 21:19</verse></h3>

And there was again a battle in Gob with the Philistines, where Elhanan the son of Jaareoregim, a
Bethlehemite, slew [the brother of] (p) Goliath the Gittite, the staff of whose spear [was] like a
weaver's beam.

(p) That is, Lahmi the brother of Goliath, whom David slew, (<bcv=1Ch 20:5>Ch1 20:5</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Samuel 22:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:1</verse></h3>

<page=696>And David spake unto the LORD the words of this (a) song in the day [that] the LORD had
delivered him out of the hand of all his enemies, and out of the hand of Saul:

(a) In token of the wonderful benefits that he received from God.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:2
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:2</verse></h3>

And he said, The LORD [is] my (b) rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer;

(b) By the diversity of these comfortable means, he shows how his faith was strengthened in all
temptations.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:5
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:5>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:5</verse></h3>

When the (c) waves of death compassed me, the floods of ungodly men made me afraid;

(c) As David (who was the figure of Christ) was by God's power delivered from all dangers: so
Christ and his Church will overcome most grievous dangers, tyranny and death.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:9
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:9>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:9</verse></h3>

There went up a (d) smoke out of his nostrils, and (e) fire out of his mouth devoured: coals were
kindled by it.

(d) That is, clouds, and vapours.

(e) Lightening and thundering.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:10
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:10>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:10</verse></h3>

He (f) bowed the heavens also, and came down; and darkness [was] under his feet.

(f) So it seems when the air is dark.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:11
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:11>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:11</verse></h3>

And he rode upon a (g) cherub, and did fly: and he was seen upon the wings of the wind.

(g) To fly in a moment through the world.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:13
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:13>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:13</verse></h3>

Through the brightness before him were (h) coals of fire kindled.

(h) By this description of a tempest he declares the power of God against his enemies.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:16
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:16>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:16</verse></h3>



And the (i) channels of the sea appeared, the foundations of the world were discovered, at the
rebuking of the LORD, at the blast of the breath of his nostrils.



(i) He alludes to the miracle of the Red Sea.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:19
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:19>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:19</verse></h3>



They (k) prevented me in the day of my calamity: but the LORD was my stay.



(k) I was so beset, that all means seemed to fail.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:21
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:21>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:21</verse></h3>



The LORD rewarded me according to my (l) righteousness: according to the cleanness of my hands
hath he recompensed me.



(l) Toward Saul and my enemies.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:22
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:22>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:22</verse></h3>



For I have kept the ways of the LORD, and have not (m) wickedly departed from my God.



(m) I attempted nothing without his commandment.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:27
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:27>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:27</verse></h3>



With the pure thou wilt shew thyself pure; and with the (n) froward thou wilt shew thyself
unsavoury.



(n) Their wickedness is cause that you seem to forget your usual mercy.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:31
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:31>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:31</verse></h3>



[As for] God, his way [is] (o) perfect; the word of the LORD [is] tried: he [is] a buckler to all them
that trust in him.



(o) The manner that God uses to aid his own, never fails.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:34
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:34>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:34</verse></h3>

<page=698>He maketh my feet like (p) hinds' [feet]: and setteth me upon my high places.



(p) He uses extraordinary means to make me win most strongholds.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:40
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:40>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:40</verse></h3>



For thou hast (q) girded me with strength to battle: them that rose up against me hast thou subdued
under me.



(q) He acknowledges that God was the author of his victories, who gave him strength.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:42
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:42>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:42</verse></h3>



They looked, but [there was] none to save; [even] unto the (r) LORD, but he answered them not.



(r) The wicked in their time of need are forced to flee to God, but it is too late.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:44
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:44>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:44</verse></h3>



Thou also hast delivered me from the strivings of my (s) people, thou hast kept me [to be] head of
the heathen: a people [which] I knew not shall serve me.



(s) Meaning, of the Jews, who conspired against me.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:45
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:45>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:45</verse></h3>



Strangers (t) shall submit themselves unto me: as soon as they hear, they shall be obedient unto me.



(t) Not willingly obeying me, but deceitfully.
#BCV:2 Samuel 22:47
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 22:47>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 22:47</verse></h3>

The LORD liveth; (u) and blessed [be] my rock; and exalted be the God of the rock of my salvation.

(u) Let him show his power that he is the governor of all the world.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 23</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 23:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 23:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 23:1</verse></h3>

<page=699>Now these [be] the (a) last words of David. David the son of Jesse said, and the man [who was]
raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel, said,

(a) Which he spoke after he had written the psalms.
#BCV:2 Samuel 23:2
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 23:2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 23:2</verse></h3>

The Spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word [was] in my (b) tongue.



(b) Meaning, he spoke nothing but by the motion of God's Spirit.
#BCV:2 Samuel 23:4
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 23:4>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 23:4</verse></h3>



And [he shall be] as the light of the morning, [when] the sun riseth, [even] a morning without clouds;
[as] the tender (c) grass [springing] out of the earth by clear shining after rain.



(c) Which grows quickly, and fades soon.
#BCV:2 Samuel 23:5
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 23:5>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 23:5</verse></h3>



Although my house [be] not so with God; yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant,
ordered in all [things], and sure: for [this is] all my salvation, and all [my] desire, although he make [it]
not to (d) grow.



(d) But that my kingdom may continue for ever according to his promise.
#BCV:2 Samuel 23:8
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 23:8>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 23:8</verse></h3>



These [be] the names of the mighty men whom David had: The Tachmonite that sat in the (e) seat,
chief among the captains; the same [was] Adino the Eznite: [he lift up his spear] against eight
hundred, whom he slew at one time.



(e) As one of the king's counsel.
#BCV:2 Samuel 23:9
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 23:9>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 23:9</verse></h3>



And after him [was] Eleazar the son of Dodo the Ahohite, [one] of the three mighty men with
David, when they defied the Philistines [that] were there gathered together to battle, and the men of
Israel were (f) gone away:

<page=700>(f) Meaning, fled from the battle.
#BCV:2 Samuel 23:10
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 23:10>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 23:10</verse></h3>



He arose, and smote the Philistines until his hand was weary, and his (g) hand clave unto the sword:
and the LORD wrought a great victory that day; and the people returned after him only to spoil.



(g) By a cramp which came from weariness and fighting.
#BCV:2 Samuel 23:12
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 23:12>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 23:12</verse></h3>



But he stood in the midst of the ground, and defended it, and slew the Philistines: and the LORD
wrought a (h) great victory.



(h) Which has no respect for many or few, when he will show his power.
#BCV:2 Samuel 23:15
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 23:15>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 23:15</verse></h3>



And David (i) longed, and said, Oh that one would give me drink of the water of the well of
Bethlehem, which [is] by the gate!



(i) Being overcome with weariness and thirst.
#BCV:2 Samuel 23:16
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 23:16>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 23:16</verse></h3>



And the three mighty men brake through the host of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well
of Bethlehem, that [was] by the gate, and took [it], and brought [it] to David: nevertheless he would
not drink thereof, but (k) poured it out unto the LORD.



(k) Bridling his affection, and also desiring God not to be offended for that rash enterprise.
#BCV:2 Samuel 23:21
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 23:21>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 23:21</verse></h3>



And he slew an Egyptian, a goodly man: and the Egyptian had a (l) spear in his hand; but he went
down to him with a staff, and plucked the spear out of the Egyptian's hand, and slew him with his
own spear.



(l) Which was as big as a weavers beam, (<bcv=1Ch 11:23>Ch1 11:23</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Samuel 23:23
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 23:23>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 23:23</verse></h3>

He was more honourable than the (m) thirty, but he attained not to the [first] three. And David set
him over his guard.

<page=701>(m) He was more valiant than the thirty that follow and not so valiant as the six before.
#BCV:2 Samuel 23:27
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 23:27>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 23:27</verse></h3>

Abiezer the Anethothite, (n) Mebunnai the Hushathite,

(n) Some of these had two names, (<bcv=1Ch 11:29>Ch1 11:29</bcv>) and also many more are mentioned there.

#BCV:2 Samuel 23:39
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 23:39>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 23:39</verse></h3>

Uriah the Hittite: (o) thirty and seven in all.

(o) These came to David, and helped restore him to his kingdom.

<h2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) Chapter 24</h2>

#BCV:2 Samuel 24:1
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 24:1>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 24:1</verse></h3>

<page=702>And (a) again the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and (b) he moved David against
them to say, Go, number Israel and Judah.

(a) Before they were plagued with famine, (<bcv=II Sa 21:1>Sa2 21:1</bcv>).

(b) The Lord permitted Satan, as in (<bcv=1Ch 21:2>Ch1 21:2</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Samuel 24:2
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 24:2>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 24:2</verse></h3>

For the king said to Joab the captain of the host, which [was] with him, Go now through all the
tribes of Israel, from Dan even to Beersheba, and number ye the people, that I may know the (c)
number of the people.

(c) Because he did this to determine his power and to trust in it, it offended God, for otherwise it
was lawful to number the people, (<bcv=Exo 30:12>Exo 30:12</bcv>;<bcv=Num 1:2> Num 1:2</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Samuel 24:9
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 24:9>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 24:9</verse></h3>

And Joab gave up the sum of the number of the people unto the king: and there were in Israel (d)
eight hundred thousand valiant men that drew the sword; and the men of Judah [were] (e) five
hundred thousand men.

(d) According to Joab's count: for in all there were eleven hundred thousand, (<bcv=1Ch 21:5>Ch1 21:5</bcv>).

(e) Including the Benjamites with them, or else they had but four hundred and seventy thousand.

#BCV:2 Samuel 24:11
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 24:11>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 24:11</verse></h3>

For when David was up in the morning, the word of the LORD came unto the prophet Gad,
David's (f) seer, saying,

(f) Whom God had appointed for David and his time.

#BCV:2 Samuel 24:13
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 24:13>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 24:13</verse></h3>

So Gad came to David, and told him, and said unto him, Shall (g) seven years of famine come unto
thee in thy land? or wilt thou flee three months before thine enemies, while they pursue thee? or that
there be three days' pestilence in thy land? now advise, and see what answer I shall return to him that
sent me.

<page=703>(g) Three years of famine were past for the Gibeonites and this was the fourth year to which should
have been added another three more years, (<bcv=1Ch 21:12>Ch1 21:12</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Samuel 24:15
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 24:15>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 24:15</verse></h3>

So the LORD sent a pestilence upon Israel from the morning even to the time appointed: and there
died of the people from (h) Dan even to Beersheba seventy thousand men.

(h) From the one side of the country to the other.
#BCV:2 Samuel 24:16
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 24:16>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 24:16</verse></h3>

And when the angel stretched out his hand upon Jerusalem to destroy it, the LORD repented him
of the evil, and said to the angel that destroyed the people, It is enough: (i) stay now thine hand.
And the angel of the LORD was by the threshingplace of Araunah the Jebusite.

(i) The Lord spared this place, because he had chosen it to build his temple there.
#BCV:2 Samuel 24:17
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 24:17>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 24:17</verse></h3>

And David spake unto the LORD when he saw the angel that smote the people, and said, Lo, I have
sinned, and I have done wickedly: but these sheep, what have they (k) done? let thine hand, I pray
thee, be against me, and against my father's house.

(k) David did not see the just cause why God plagued the people, and therefore he offers himself
for God's correction as the only cause of this evil.
#BCV:2 Samuel 24:21
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 24:21>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 24:21</verse></h3>

And (l) Araunah said, Wherefore is my lord the king come to his servant? And David said, To buy
the threshingfloor of thee, to build an altar unto the LORD, that the plague may be stayed from the
people.

(l) Called also Ornan (<bcv=1Ch 21:20>Ch1 21:20</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Samuel 24:23
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 24:23>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 24:23</verse></h3>



All these [things] did Araunah, (m) [as] a king, give unto the king. And Araunah said unto the king,
The LORD thy God accept thee.



(m) That is, abundantly, for as some write, he was king of Jerusalem before David won the tower.
#BCV:2 Samuel 24:24
<h3><verse=2 Samuel 24:24>2 Kings (2 Samuel) 24:24</verse></h3>

<page=704>And the king said unto Araunah, Nay; but I will surely buy [it] of thee at a price: neither will I offer
burnt offerings unto the LORD my God of that which doth cost me nothing. So David bought the
threshingfloor and the oxen for (n) fifty shekels of silver.

(n) Some write that every tribe gave 50 which makes 600, or that afterward he bought as much as
came to 550 shekels.

<page=705><h1>3 Kings (1 Kings)<h1>

<h2>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 1</h2>

#BCV:1 Kings 1:1
<h3><verse=1 Kings 1:1>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:1</verse></h3>

Now king David was (a) old [and] stricken in years; and they covered him with clothes, but he gat no

(b) heat.

The Argument - Because the children of God should expect no continual rest and quietness in this
world, the Holy Spirit sets before our eyes in this book the variety and change of things, which came
to the people of Israel from the death of David, Solomon, and the rest of the kings, to the death of
Ahab. Declaring that flourishing kingdoms, unless they are preserved by God's protection, (who
then favours them when his word is truly set forth, virtue esteemed, vice punished, and concord
maintained) fall to decay and come to nothing as appears by the dividing of the kingdom under
Rehoboam and Jeroboam, who were one people before and now by the just punishment of God
were made two. Judah and Benjamin were under Rehoboam, and this was called the kingdom of
Judah. The other ten tribes held with Jeroboam, and this was called the kingdom of Israel. The king
of Judah had his throne in Jerusalem, and the king of Israel in Samaria, after it was built by Omri
Ahab's father. Because our Saviour Christ according to the flesh, comes from the stock of David,
the genealogy of the kings of Judah is here described, from Solomon to Joram the son of
Jehoshaphat, who reigned over Judah in Jerusalem as Ahab did over Israel in Samaria.



(a) He was about 70 years old, (<bcv=II Sa 5:4>Sa2 5:4</bcv>).



(b) For his natural heat was worn away with travels.

#BCV:1 Kings 1:3
<h3><verse=1 kings 1:3>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:3</verse></h3>

So they sought for a fair damsel throughout all the coasts of Israel, and found Abishag (c) a
Shunammite, and brought her to the king.



(c) A city in the tribe of Issachar, (<bcv=Jos 19:18>Jos 19:18</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Kings 1:5
<h3><verse=1 kings 1:5>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:5</verse></h3>

Then Adonijah the son of Haggith exalted himself, saying, I will be king: and he prepared him
chariots and horsemen, and (d) fifty men to run before him.



(d) Read (<bcv=II Sa 15:1>Sa2 15:1</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Kings 1:7
<h3><verse=1 kings 1:7>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:7</verse></h3>

<page=706>And he conferred with Joab the son of Zeruiah, and with Abiathar the priest: and they following
Adonijah (e) helped [him].

(e) They took his part and followed him.
#BCV:1 Kings 1:10
<h3><verse=1 kings 1:10>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:10</verse></h3>

But Nathan the prophet, and Benaiah, and (f) the mighty men, and Solomon his brother, he called
not.

(f) As the Cherethites and Pelethites.
#BCV: 1 Kings 1:12
<h3><verse=1 kings 1:12>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:12</verse></h3>

Now therefore come, let me, I pray thee, give thee counsel, that thou mayest save thine own (g) life,
and the life of thy son Solomon.

(g) For Adonijah will destroy you and your son, if he reigns.
#BCV:1 Kings 1:14
<h3><verse=1 kings 1:14>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:14</verse></h3>

Behold, while thou yet talkest there with the king, I also will come in after thee, and (h) confirm thy
words.

(h) By declaring such things, as may further the same.
#BCV:1Kings 1:18
<h3><verse=1 Kings 1:18>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:18</verse></h3>

And now, behold, Adonijah reigneth; and now, my lord the king, thou knowest (i) [it] not:

(i) The king being worn with age, could not attend to the affairs of the realm, and also Adonijah had
many who kept it from the king.
#BCV:1Kings 1:21
<h3><verse=1 Kings 1:21>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:21</verse></h3>

Otherwise it shall come to pass, when my lord the king shall sleep with his fathers, that I and my son
Solomon shall be (k) counted offenders.



(k) And so put to death as wicked transgressors.
#BCV:1Kings 1:23
<h3><verse=1 Kings 1:23>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:23</verse></h3>

And they told the king, saying, Behold Nathan the prophet. And when he was come in before the
king, he bowed himself before the king with his face (l) to the ground.

<page=707>(l) Acknowledging him to be the true and worthy king appointed by God, as the figure of his Christ.


#BCV:1Kings 1:27
<h3><verse=1 Kings 1:27>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:27</verse></h3>

Is this thing done by my lord the king, and thou hast not shewed [it] unto thy (m) servant, who
should sit on the throne of my lord the king after him?



(m) Meaning, that in such affairs he should undertake nothing unless he had consulted with the Lord.
#BCV:1Kings 1:30
<h3><verse=1 Kings 1:30>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:30</verse></h3>

Even as I (n) sware unto thee by the LORD God of Israel, saying, Assuredly Solomon thy son shall
reign after me, and he shall sit upon my throne in my stead; even so will I certainly do this day.



(n) Moved by the Spirit of God to do so, because he foresaw that Solomon would be the figure of
Christ.
#BCV:1Kings 1:33
<h3><verse=1 Kings 1:33>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:33</verse></h3>

The king also said unto them, Take with you the (o) servants of your lord, and cause Solomon my
son to ride upon mine own mule, and bring him down to Gihon:



(o) Meaning, the king's servants and such as were of his guard.
#BCV:1Kings 1:39
<h3><verse=1 Kings 1:39>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:39</verse></h3>

And Zadok the priest took an horn of (p) oil out of the tabernacle, and anointed Solomon. And
they blew the trumpet; and all the people said, God save king Solomon.



(p) With which they were accustomed to anoint the priests and the holy instruments, (<bcv=Exo 30:23>Exo 30:23</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 1:42
<h3><verse=1 Kings 1:42>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:42</verse></h3>

And while he yet spake, behold, Jonathan the son of Abiathar the priest came: and Adonijah said
unto him, Come in; for thou [art] a valiant man, and bringest (q) good tidings.



(q) He praised Jonathan, thinking to have heard good news but God wrought things contrary to his
expectation, and so beat down his pride.
#BCV:1Kings 1:47
<h3><verse=1 Kings 1:47>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:47</verse></h3>

<page=708>And moreover the king's servants came to bless our lord king David, saying, God make the name of
Solomon better than thy name, and make his throne greater than thy throne. And the king bowed
himself upon the (f) bed.



(f) He gave God thanks for the good success.
#BCV:1Kings 1:50
<h3><verse=1 Kings 1:50>3 Kings (1 Kings) 1:50</verse></h3>

And Adonijah feared because of Solomon, and arose, and went, and caught hold on the horns of
the (t) altar.



(t) Which David his father had built in the floor of Araunah, (<bcv=II Sa 24:25>Sa2 24:25</bcv>).

<page=709>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 2


#BCV:1Kings 2:2
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:2>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:2</verse></h3>

I go the (a) way of all the earth: be thou strong therefore, and shew thyself a man;



(a) I am ready to die as all men must.
#BCV:1Kings 2:3
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:3>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:3</verse></h3>

And keep the (b) charge of the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, to keep his statutes, and his
commandments, and his judgments, and his testimonies, as it is written in the law of Moses, that
thou mayest prosper in all that thou doest, and whithersoever thou turnest thyself:



(b) He shows how hard it is to govern and that no one can do it well except he obey God.
#BCV:1Kings 2:4
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:4>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:4</verse></h3>

That the LORD may continue his word which he spake concerning me, saying, If thy children take
heed to their way, to walk before me in (c) truth with all their heart and with all their soul, there shall
not fail thee (said he) a man on the throne of Israel.



(c) Without hypocrisy.
#BCV:1Kings 2:5
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:5>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:5</verse></h3>

Moreover thou knowest also what Joab the son of Zeruiah did to me, [and] what he did to the two
captains of the hosts of Israel, unto Abner the son of Ner, and unto Amasa the son of Jether,
whom he slew, and (d) shed the blood of war in peace, and (e) put the blood of war upon his girdle
that [was] about his loins, and in his shoes that [were] on his feet.



(d) He shed his blood in time of peace, as if there had been war.



(e) He put the bloody sword into his sheath.
#BCV:1Kings 2:7
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:7>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:7</verse></h3>

But shew kindness unto the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite, and let them be of those that eat at thy
table: (f) for so they came to me when I fled because of Absalom thy brother.



(f) That is, they dealt mercifully with me.
#BCV:1Kings 2:9
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:9>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:9</verse></h3>

<page=710>Now therefore hold him not guiltless: for thou [art] a wise man, and knowest what thou oughtest to
do unto him; but his hoar head bring thou down to the grave with (g) blood.



(g) Let him be punished with death, see (<bcv=I Ki 2:46>Kg1 2:46</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 2:13
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:13>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:13</verse></h3>

And Adonijah the son of Haggith came to Bathsheba the mother of Solomon. And she said, (h)
Comest thou peaceably? And he said, Peaceably.



(h) For she was afraid lest he would work treason against the king.
#BCV:1Kings 2:15
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:15>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:15</verse></h3>

And he said, Thou knowest that the kingdom was mine, and [that] all Israel (i) set their faces on me,
that I should reign: howbeit the kingdom is turned about, and is become my brother's: for it was his
from the LORD.



(i) In sign of their favour and consent.
#BCV:1Kings 2:19
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:19>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:19</verse></h3>

Bathsheba therefore went unto king Solomon, to speak unto him for Adonijah. And the king rose
up to meet her, and (k) bowed himself unto her, and sat down on his throne, and caused a seat to be
set for the king's mother; and she sat on his right hand.



(k) In token of reverence, and that others by his example might have her in greater honour.
#BCV:1Kings 2:22
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:22>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:22</verse></h3>

And king Solomon answered and said unto his mother, And why dost thou ask Abishag the
Shunammite for Adonijah? ask for him the (l) kingdom also; for he [is] mine elder brother; even for
him, and for Abiathar the priest, and for Joab the son of Zeruiah.



(l) Meaning, that if he would have granted Abishag, who was so dear to his father, he would later
have aspired for the kingdom.
#BCV:1Kings 2:26
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:26>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:26</verse></h3>

And unto Abiathar the priest said the king, Get thee to Anathoth, unto thine own fields; for thou
[art] worthy of death: but I will not at this time put thee to death, because thou (m) barest the ark of
the Lord GOD before David my father, and because thou hast been afflicted in all wherein my
father was afflicted.

<page=711>(m) When he fled before Absalom, (<bcv=2Sam 15:24>Sa2 15:24</bcv>).


#BCV:1Kings 2:28
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:28>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:28</verse></h3>

Then tidings came to Joab: for Joab had (n) turned after Adonijah, though he turned not after
Absalom. And Joab fled unto the tabernacle of the LORD, and caught hold on the horns of the
altar.



(n) He took Adonijah's part when he would have usurped the kingdom (<bcv=I Ki 1:7>Kg1 1:7</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 2:29
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:29>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:29</verse></h3>

And it was told king Solomon that Joab was fled unto the tabernacle of the LORD; and, behold, [he
is] by the (o) altar. Then Solomon sent Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, saying, Go, fall upon him.



(o) Thinking to be saved by the holiness of the place.
#BCV:1Kings 2:31
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:31>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:31</verse></h3>

And the king said unto him, Do as he hath said, and (p) fall upon him, and bury him; that thou
mayest take away the innocent blood, which Joab shed, from me, and from the house of my father.



(p) For it was lawful to take the wilful murderer from the altar, (<bcv=Exo 21:14>Exo 21:14</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 2:33
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:33>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:33</verse></h3>

Their blood shall therefore return upon the (q) head of Joab, and upon the head of his seed for ever:
but upon David, and upon his seed, and upon his house, and upon his throne, shall there be peace
for ever from the LORD.



(q) Joab will be justly punished for the blood that he has cruelly shed.
#BCV:1Kings 2:35
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:35>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:35</verse></h3>

And the king put Benaiah the son of Jehoiada in his room over the host: and Zadok the (r) priest
did the king put in the room of Abiathar.



(r) And so took the office of high priest from the house of Eli, and restored it to the house of
Phinehas.
#BCV:1Kings 2:39
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:39>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:39</verse></h3>

<page=712>And it came to pass at the end of three years, that two of the (s) servants of Shimei ran away unto
Achish son of Maachah king of Gath. And they told Shimei, saying, Behold, thy servants [be] in
Gath.



(s) Thus God appoints the ways and means to bring his just judgments on the wicked.
#BCV:1Kings 2:40
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:40>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:40</verse></h3>

And Shimei arose, and saddled his ass, and went to Gath to Achish to seek his servants: and (t)
Shimei went, and brought his servants from Gath.



(t) His covetous mind moved him to risk his life, rather than to lose the worldly profit he had by his
servants.
#BCV:1Kings 2:44
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:44>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:44</verse></h3>

The king said moreover to Shimei, (u) Thou knowest all the wickedness which thine heart is privy to,
that thou didst to David my father: therefore the LORD shall return thy wickedness upon thine own
head;



(u) For though you would deny it, your own conscience accuses you for reviling and doing wrong to
my father, (<bcv=II Sa 16:5>Sa2 16:5</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 2:46
<h3><verse=1 Kings 2:46>3 Kings (1 Kings) 2:46</verse></h3>

So the king commanded Benaiah the son of Jehoiada; which went out, and fell upon him, that he
died. And the kingdom was (x) established in the hand of Solomon.



(x) Because all his enemies were destroyed.

<page=713>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 3


#BCV:1Kings 3:1
<h3><verse=1 Kings 3:1>3 Kings (1 Kings) 3:1</verse></h3>

And Solomon made affinity with Pharaoh king of Egypt, and took Pharaoh's daughter, and brought
her into the (a) city of David, until he had made an end of building his own house, and the house of
the LORD, and the wall of Jerusalem round about.



(a) Which was Bethlehem.
#BCV:1Kings 3:2
<h3><verse=1 Kings 3:2>3 Kings (1 Kings) 3:2</verse></h3>

Only the people sacrificed in (b) high places, because there was no house built unto the name of the
LORD, until those days.



(b) Where altars were appointed before the temple was built, to offer to the Lord.
#BCV:1Kings 3:3
<h3><verse=1 Kings 3:3>3 Kings (1 Kings) 3:3</verse></h3>

And Solomon loved the LORD, walking in the statutes of David his (c) father: only he sacrificed
and burnt incense in high places.



(c) For his father had commanded him to obey the Lord and walk in his ways, (<bcv=I Ki 2:3>Kg1 2:3</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 3:4
<h3><verse=1 Kings 3:4>3 Kings (1 Kings) 3:4</verse></h3>

And the king went to (d) Gibeon to sacrifice there; for that [was] the great high place: a thousand
burnt offerings did Solomon offer upon that altar.



(d) For there the tabernacle was (<bcv=2Ch 1:3>Ch2 1:3</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 3:6
<h3><verse=1 Kings 3:6>3 Kings (1 Kings) 3:6</verse></h3>

And Solomon said, Thou hast shewed unto thy servant David my father great mercy, according as
he walked before thee in truth, and in righteousness, and in uprightness of heart with thee; and thou
hast (e) kept for him this great kindness, that thou hast given him a son to sit on his throne, as [it is]
this day.



(e) You have performed your promise.
#BCV:1Kings 3:7
<h3><verse=1 Kings 3:7>3 Kings (1 Kings) 3:7</verse></h3>

And now, O LORD my God, thou hast made thy servant king instead of David my father: and I
[am but] a little child: I know not [how] to (f) go out or come in.

<page=714>(f) That is, to behave himself in executing this charge of ruling.


#BCV:1Kings 3:9
<h3><verse=1 Kings 3:9>3 Kings (1 Kings) 3:9</verse></h3>

Give therefore thy servant an understanding heart to judge thy people, that I may discern between
good and bad: for who is able to judge this thy so (g) great a people?



(g) Which are so many in number.
#BCV:1Kings 3:11
<h3><verse=1 Kings 3:11>3 Kings (1 Kings) 3:11</verse></h3>

And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life;
neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine (h) enemies; but hast asked for
thyself understanding to discern judgment;



(h) That is, that their enemy would die.
#BCV:1Kings 3:15
<h3><verse=1 Kings 3:15>3 Kings (1 Kings) 3:15</verse></h3>

And Solomon awoke; and, behold, [it was] (i) a dream. And he came to Jerusalem, and stood before
the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and offered up burnt offerings, and offered peace offerings,
and made a feast to all his servants.



(i) He knew that God had appeared to him in a dream.
#BCV:1Kings 3:16
<h3><verse=1 Kings 3:16>3 Kings (1 Kings) 3:16</verse></h3>

Then came there two women, [that were] harlots, unto the king, and (k) stood before him.



(k) By this example it appears that God kept his promise to Solomon in granting him wisdom.
#BCV:1Kings 3:20
<h3><verse=1 Kings 3:20>3 Kings (1 Kings) 3:20</verse></h3>

And she arose at midnight, and (l) took my son from beside me, while thine handmaid slept, and laid
it in her bosom, and laid her dead child in my bosom.



(l) She stole the living child to avoid both the shame and punishment.
#BCV:1Kings 3:24
<h3><verse=1 Kings 3:24>3 Kings (1 Kings) 3:24</verse></h3>

And the king said, (m) Bring me a sword. And they brought a sword before the king.



(m) Unless God gives judges understanding, the impudency of the trespasser will overthrow the just
cause of the innocent.

#BCV:1Kings 3:26
<h3><verse=1 Kings 3:26>3 Kings (1 Kings) 3:26</verse></h3>

Then spake the woman whose the living child [was] unto the king, for her bowels yearned upon her
son, and she said, O my lord, give her the living child, and (n) in no wise slay it. But the other said,
Let it be neither mine nor thine, [but] divide [it].



(n) Her motherly affection appears in that she would rather endure the rigor of the law than see her
child cruelly slain.
<page=716>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 4


#BCV:1Kings 4:2
<h3><verse=1 Kings 4:2>3 Kings (1 Kings) 4:2</verse></h3>

And these [were] the (a) princes which he had; (b) Azariah the son of Zadok the priest,



(a) That is, his chief officers.



(b) He was the son of Achimais and Zadok's nephew.
#BCV:1Kings 4:4
<h3><verse=1 Kings 4:4>3 Kings (1 Kings) 4:4</verse></h3>

And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada [was] over the host: and Zadok and (c) Abiathar [were] the priests:



(c) Not Abiathar whom Solomon had put from his office, (<bcv=I Ki 2:27>Kg1 2:27</bcv>) but another of that name.
#BCV:1Kings 4:13
<h3><verse=1 Kings 4:13>3 Kings (1 Kings) 4:13</verse></h3>

The son of Geber, in Ramothgilead; to him [pertained] the towns of (d) Jair the son of Manasseh,
which [are] in Gilead; to him [also pertained] the region of Argob, which [is] in Bashan, threescore
great cities with walls and brasen bars:



(d) Which bore Jair's name, because he took them from the Canaanites, (<bcv=Num 32:41>Num 32:41</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 4:17
<h3><verse=1 Kings 4:17>3 Kings (1 Kings) 4:17</verse></h3>

Jehoshaphat the son of Paruah, in (e) Issachar:



(e) Solomon did not observe the division that Joshua made, but divided it as might best serve his
purposes.
#BCV:1Kings 4:20
<h3><verse=1 Kings 4:20>3 Kings (1 Kings) 4:20</verse></h3>

Judah and Israel [were] many, as the sand which [is] by the sea in multitude, (f) eating and drinking,
and making merry.



(f) They lived in all peace and security.
#BCV:1Kings 4:21
<h3><verse=1 Kings 4:21>3 Kings (1 Kings) 4:21</verse></h3>

And Solomon reigned over all kingdoms from the (g) river unto the land of the Philistines, and unto
the border of Egypt: they brought presents, and served Solomon all the days of his life.



(g) Which is the Euphrates.
#BCV:1Kings 4:24
<h3><verse=1 Kings 4:24>3 Kings (1 Kings) 4:24</verse></h3>

For he had dominion over all [the region] on this side the river, from Tiphsah even to Azzah, over all
the (h) kings on this side the river: and he had peace on all sides round about him.



(h) For they were all tributaries to him.
#BCV:1Kings 4:25
<h3><verse=1 Kings 4:25>3 Kings (1 Kings) 4:25</verse></h3>

And Judah and Israel dwelt safely, every man under his vine and under his fig tree, from (i) Dan even
to Beersheba, all the days of Solomon.



(i) Throughout all Israel.
#BCV:1Kings 4:29
<h3><verse=1 Kings 4:29>3 Kings (1 Kings) 4:29</verse></h3>

And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and (k) largeness of heart,
even as the sand that [is] on the sea shore.



(k) Meaning, great understanding and able to comprehend all things.
#BCV:1Kings 4:30
<h3><verse=1 Kings 4:30>3 Kings (1 Kings) 4:30</verse></h3>

And Solomon's wisdom excelled the wisdom of all the children of the (l) east country, and all the
wisdom of Egypt.



(l) That is, the philosophers and astronomers who were judged most wise.
#BCV:1Kings 4:32
<h3><verse=1 Kings 4:32>3 Kings (1 Kings) 4:32</verse></h3>

And he spake three thousand (m) proverbs: and his songs were a thousand and five.



(m) Which for the most part are thought to have perished in the captivity of Babylon.
#BCV:1Kings 4:33
<h3><verse=1 Kings 4:33>3 Kings (1 Kings) 4:33</verse></h3>

And he spake of trees, from the cedar tree that [is] in Lebanon even unto the (n) hyssop that
springeth out of the wall: he spake also of beasts, and of fowl, and of creeping things, and of fishes.



(n) From the highest to the lowest.

<page=718>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 5


#BCV:1Kings 5:4
<h3><verse=1 Kings 5:4>3 Kings (1 Kings) 5:4</verse></h3>

But now the LORD my God hath given me (a) rest on every side, [so that there is] neither adversary
nor evil occurrent.



(a) He declares that he was bound to set forth God's glory for as much as the Lord had sent him rest
and peace.
#BCV:1Kings 5:6
<h3><verse=1 Kings 5:6>3 Kings (1 Kings) 5:6</verse></h3>

Now therefore command thou that they hew me cedar trees out of Lebanon; and my servants shall
be with thy servants: and unto thee will I give (b) hire for thy servants according to all that thou shalt
appoint: for thou knowest that [there is] not among us any that can skill to hew timber like unto the
Sidonians.



(b) This was his equity, that he would not receive a benefit without some recompence.
#BCV:1Kings 5:7
<h3><verse=1 Kings 5:7>3 Kings (1 Kings) 5:7</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, when (c) Hiram heard the words of Solomon, that he rejoiced greatly, and said,
Blessed [be] the LORD this day, which hath given unto David a wise son over this great people.



(c) In Hiram is prefigured the calling of the Gentiles who would help build the spiritual temple.
#BCV:1Kings 5:9
<h3><verse=1 Kings 5:9>3 Kings (1 Kings) 5:9</verse></h3>

My servants shall bring [them] down from Lebanon unto the sea: and I will convey them by sea in
floats unto the place that thou shalt appoint me, and will cause them to be discharged there, and
thou shalt receive [them]: and thou shalt accomplish my desire, in giving food for (d) my household.



(d) While my servants are occupied with your business.
#BCV:1Kings 5:12
<h3><verse=1 Kings 5:12>3 Kings (1 Kings) 5:12</verse></h3>

And the LORD gave Solomon wisdom, as he promised him: and there was peace between Hiram
and Solomon; and they (e) two made a league together.



(e) Concerning the furniture of wood.
#BCV:1Kings 5:18
<h3><verse=1 Kings 5:18>3 Kings (1 Kings) 5:18</verse></h3>

<page=719>And Solomon's builders and Hiram's (f) builders did hew [them], and the stonesquarers: so they
prepared timber and stones to build the house.



(f) The Hebrew word is <transhebrew>Giblim,<english> which some say were excellent masons.

<page=720>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 6


#BCV:1Kings 6:1
<h3><verse=1 Kings 6:1>3 Kings (1 Kings) 6:1</verse></h3>

And it came to pass in the four hundred and eightieth year after the children of Israel were come
out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon's reign over Israel, in the month (a) Zif,
which [is] the second month, that he began to build the (b) house of the LORD.



(a) Which contains part of April and part of May.



(b) By which is meant the temple and the oracle.
#BCV:1Kings 6:3
<h3><verse=1 Kings 6:3>3 Kings (1 Kings) 6:3</verse></h3>

And the (c) porch before the temple of the house, twenty cubits [was] the length thereof, according
to the breadth of the house; [and] ten cubits [was] the breadth thereof before the house.



(c) Or the court where the people prayed which was before the place where the altar of burnt
offerings stood.
#BCV:1Kings 6:5
<h3><verse=1 Kings 6:5>3 Kings (1 Kings) 6:5</verse></h3>

And against the wall of the house he built chambers round about, [against] the walls of the house
round about, [both] of the temple and of (d) the oracle: and he made chambers round about:



(d) When God spoke between the Cherubim, called also the most holy place.
#BCV:1Kings 6:6
<h3><verse=1 Kings 6:6>3 Kings (1 Kings) 6:6</verse></h3>

The nethermost chamber [was] five cubits broad, and the middle [was] six cubits broad, and the
third [was] seven cubits broad: for without [in the wall] of the house he made narrowed (e) rests
round about, that [the beams] should not be fastened in the walls of the house.



(e) Which were certain stones coming out of the wall, as stays for the beams to rest upon.
#BCV:1Kings 6:9
<h3><verse=1 Kings 6:9>3 Kings (1 Kings) 6:9</verse></h3>

So he built the (f) house, and finished it; and covered the house with beams and boards of cedar.



(f) In Exodus it is called the tabernacle, and the temple is here called the sanctuary and the oracle the
most holy place.
#BCV:1Kings 6:13
<h3><verse=1 Kings 6:13>3 Kings (1 Kings) 6:13</verse></h3>

<page=721>And I will (g) dwell among the children of Israel, and will not forsake my people Israel.



(g) According as he promised to Moses, (<bcv=Exo 25:22>Exo 25:22</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 6:15
<h3><verse=1 Kings 6:15>3 Kings (1 Kings) 6:15</verse></h3>

And he built the walls of the house within with boards of cedar, both the floor of the house, and (h)
the walls of the cieling: [and] he covered [them] on the inside with wood, and covered the floor of
the house with planks of fir.



(h) Meaning, to the roof which was also sealed.
#BCV:1Kings 6:17
<h3><verse=1 Kings 6:17>3 Kings (1 Kings) 6:17</verse></h3>

And the (i) house, that [is], the temple before it, was forty cubits [long].



(i) For when he spoke of the house in the first verse, he meant both the oracle and the temple.
#BCV:1Kings 6:19
<h3><verse=1 Kings 6:19>3 Kings (1 Kings) 6:19</verse></h3>

And the oracle he prepared in the (k) house within, to set there the ark of the covenant of the
LORD.



(k) That is, in the most inward place of the house.
#BCV:1Kings 6:22
<h3><verse=1 Kings 6:22>3 Kings (1 Kings) 6:22</verse></h3>

And the whole house he overlaid with gold, until he had finished all the house: also the (l) whole
altar that [was] by the oracle he overlaid with gold.



(l) Meaning, the altar of incense, (<bcv=Exo 30:1>Exo 30:1</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 6:28
<h3><verse=1 Kings 6:28>3 Kings (1 Kings) 6:28</verse></h3>

And he (m) overlaid the cherubims with gold.



(m) For the others which Moses made of beaten gold were taken away with the other jewels by their
enemies, whom God permitted at various times to overcome them for their great sins.
#BCV:1Kings 6:32
<h3><verse=1 Kings 6:32>3 Kings (1 Kings) 6:32</verse></h3>

The two doors also [were of] olive tree; and he carved upon them carvings of cherubims and palm
trees and open flowers, and overlaid [them] with gold, and (n) spread gold upon the cherubims, and
upon the palm trees.

<page=722>(n) So that the fashion of the carved work might still appear.


#BCV:1Kings 6:36
<h3><verse=1 Kings 6:36>3 Kings (1 Kings) 6:36</verse></h3>

And he built the inner (o) court with three rows of hewed stone, and a row of cedar beams.



(o) Where the priests were, and was thus called in respect to the great court, which is called the
porch of Solomon in (<bcv=Acts 3:11>Act 3:11</bcv>) where the people used to pray.
#BCV:1Kings 6:38
<h3><verse=1 Kings 6:38>3 Kings (1 Kings) 6:38</verse></h3>

And in the eleventh year, in the month (p) Bul, which [is] the eighth month, was the house finished
throughout all the parts thereof, and according to all the fashion of it. So was he seven years in
building it.



(p) Which contains part of October and part of November.
<page=723>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 7


#BCV:1Kings 7:1
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:1>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:1</verse></h3>

But Solomon was building his own house thirteen years, and he (a) finished all his house.



(a) After he had built the temple.
#BCV:1Kings 7:2
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:2>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:2</verse></h3>

He built also the house (b) of the forest of Lebanon; the length thereof [was] an hundred cubits,
and the breadth thereof fifty cubits, and the height thereof thirty cubits, upon four rows of cedar
pillars, with cedar beams upon the pillars.



(b) Because of the beauty of the place, and great abundance of cedar trees that went into the
building of it, it was compared to mount Lebanon.
#BCV:1Kings 7:4
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:4>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:4</verse></h3>

And [there were] windows [in] three rows, and light [was] (c) against light [in] three ranks.



(c) There were as many and like proportion on the one side as the other, and at every end even three
in a row one above another.
#BCV:1Kings 7:6
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:6>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:6</verse></h3>

And he made a porch of pillars; the length thereof [was] fifty cubits, and the breadth thereof thirty
cubits: and the porch [was] before (d) them: and the [other] pillars and the thick beam [were] before
them.



(d) Before the pillars of the house.
#BCV:1Kings 7:7
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:7>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:7</verse></h3>

Then he made a porch (e) for the throne where he might judge, [even] the porch of judgment: and
[it was] covered with cedar from one side of the floor to the other.



(e) For his house which was at Jerusalem.
#BCV:1Kings 7:9
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:9>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:9</verse></h3>

All these [were of] costly stones, according to the measures of hewed stones, sawed with saws,
within and without, even from the foundation unto (f) the coping, and [so] on the outside toward
the great court.

<page=724>(f) Which were rests and stays for the beams to lie on.


#BCV:1Kings 7:11
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:11>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:11</verse></h3>

And (g) above [were] costly stones, after the measures of hewed stones, and cedars.



(g) From the foundation upward.
#BCV:1Kings 7:12
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:12>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:12</verse></h3>

And the great court round about [was] with three rows of hewed stones, and a row of cedar beams,



(h) both for the inner court of the house of the LORD, and for the porch of the house.



(h) As the Lord's house was built so was this, only the great court of Solomon's house was
uncovered.
#BCV:1Kings 7:14
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:14>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:14</verse></h3>

He [was] a widow's son of the tribe of Naphtali, and his father [was] a man of Tyre, a worker in
brass: and (i) he was filled with wisdom, and understanding, and cunning to work all works in brass.
And he came to king Solomon, and wrought all his work.



(i) Thus when God will have his glory set forth, he raises up men, and gives them excellent gifts for
the accomplishment of the same, (<bcv=Exo 31:2-3>Exo 31:2-3</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 7:19
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:19>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:19</verse></h3>

And the chapiters that [were] upon the top of the pillars [were] of (k) lily work in the porch, four
cubits.



(k) As was seen commonly wrought in costly porches.
#BCV:1Kings 7:21
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:21>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:21</verse></h3>

And he set up the pillars in the (l) porch of the temple: and he set up the right pillar, and called the
name thereof (m) Jachin: and he set up the left pillar, and called the name thereof (n) Boaz.



(l) Which was in the inner court between the temple and the oracle.



(m) That is, he will stablish, that is, his promise toward this house.



(n) That is, in strength: meaning the power of it will continue.
#BCV:1Kings 7:23
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:23>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:23</verse></h3>

<page=725>And he made a molten (o) sea, ten cubits from the one brim to the other: [it was] round all about
and his height [was] five cubits: and a line of thirty cubits did compass it round about.



(o) So called for the size of the vessel.
#BCV:1Kings 7:26
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:26>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:26</verse></h3>

And it [was] an hand breadth thick, and the brim thereof was wrought like the brim of a cup, with
flowers of lilies: it contained two thousand (p) baths.



(p) Bath and ephah seem to be one measure, (<bcv=Ezek 45:11>Eze 45:11</bcv>) a bath contains about 5 gallons.
#BCV:1Kings 7:31
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:31>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:31</verse></h3>

And the (q) mouth of it within the chapiter and above [was] a cubit: but the mouth thereof [was]
round [after] the work of the base, a cubit and an half: and also upon the mouth of it [were]
gravings with their borders, foursquare, not round.



(q) The mouth of the great base or frame entered into the chapiter, or pillar that bore up the
cauldron.
#BCV:1Kings 7:35
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:35>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:35</verse></h3>

And in the top of the base [was there] a round (v) compass of half a cubit high: and on the top of
the base the ledges thereof and the borders thereof [were] of the same.



(v) Which was called the pillar, chapiter or small base, in which the cauldron stood.
#BCV:1Kings 7:38
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:38>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:38</verse></h3>

Then made he (s) ten lavers of brass: one laver contained forty baths: [and] every laver was four
cubits: [and] upon every one of the ten bases one laver.



(s) To keep waters for the use of the sacrifices.
#BCV:1Kings 7:39
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:39>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:39</verse></h3>

And he put five bases on the right side of the house, and five on the left side of the house: and he
set the sea on the right side of the (t) house eastward over against the south.



(t) That is, of the temple or sanctuary.
#BCV:1Kings 7:45
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:45>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:45</verse></h3>

<page=726>And the pots, and the shovels, and the basons: and all these vessels, which (u) Hiram made to king
Solomon for the house of the LORD, [were of] bright brass.



(u) By this name also Hiram the king of Tyrus was called.
#BCV:1Kings 7:48
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:48>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:48</verse></h3>

And Solomon made all the vessels that [pertained] unto the house of the LORD: the (x) altar of
gold, and the table of gold, whereupon the shewbread [was],



(x) This was done according to the form that the Lord prescribed to Moses in Exodus.
#BCV:1Kings 7:50
<h3><verse=1 Kings 7:50>3 Kings (1 Kings) 7:50</verse></h3>

And the bowls, (y) and the snuffers, and the basons, and the spoons, and the censers [of] pure gold;
and the hinges [of] gold, [both] for the doors of the inner house, the most holy [place, and] for the
doors of the house, [to wit], of the temple.



(y) Some take this for some musical instrument.

<page=727>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 8


#BCV:1Kings 8:1
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:1>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:1</verse></h3>

Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel, and all the heads of the tribes, the chief of the
fathers of the children of Israel, unto king Solomon in Jerusalem, that they might (a) bring up the
ark of the covenant of the LORD out of the city of David, which [is] Zion.



(a) For David brought it from Obed-edom, and placed it in the tabernacle which he made for it in



(<bcv=II Sa 6:17>Sa2 6:17</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 8:2
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:2>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:2</verse></h3>

And all the men of Israel assembled themselves unto king Solomon at the feast in the month (b)
Ethanim, which [is] the seventh month.



(b) Containing part of September and part of October, in which they held three solemn feasts,



(<bcv=Num 29:1>Num 29:1</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 8:6
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:6>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:6</verse></h3>

And the (c) priests brought in the ark of the covenant of the LORD unto his place, into the oracle
of the house, to the most holy [place, even] under the wings of the cherubims.



(c) That is, the Kohathites, (<bcv=Num 4:5>Num 4:5</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 8:8
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:8>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:8</verse></h3>

And they (d) drew out the staves, that the ends of the staves were seen out in the holy [place] before
the oracle, and they were not seen without: and there they are unto this day.



(d) They drew them out only far enough to be seen, for they could not pull them out completely,



(<bcv=Exo 25:15>Exo 25:15</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 8:9
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:9>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:9</verse></h3>

[There was] nothing in the ark (e) save the two tables of stone, which Moses put there at Horeb,
when the LORD made [a covenant] with the children of Israel, when they came out of the land of
Egypt.



(e) For it is likely that the enemy when they had the ark in their hands took away the rod of Aaron
and the pot of manna.
#BCV:1Kings 8:13
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:13>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:13</verse></h3>


<page=728>I have surely built thee an house to dwell in, a settled place for thee to abide in for (f) ever.



(f) He spoke according to the tenor of God's promise which was on the condition that they served
him correctly.
#BCV:1Kings 8:21
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:21>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:21</verse></h3>

And I have set there a place for the ark, wherein [is] the (g) covenant of the LORD, which he made
with our fathers, when he brought them out of the land of Egypt.



(g) The two tables in which the articles of the covenant were written.
#BCV:1Kings 8:23
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:23>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:23</verse></h3>

And he said, LORD God of Israel, [there is] no God like thee, in heaven above, or on earth beneath,
who keepest covenant and mercy with thy servants that walk before thee with (h) all their heart:



(h) Truthfully and without hypocrisy.
#BCV:1Kings 8:27
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:27>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:27</verse></h3>




(i) But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold, the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot
contain thee; how much less this house that I have builded?



(i) He is ravished with the admiration of God's mercies, who being incomprehensible and Lord over
all will become familiar with men.
#BCV:1Kings 8:31
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:31>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:31</verse></h3>

If any man trespass against his neighbour, (k) and an oath be laid upon him to cause him to swear,
and the oath come before thine altar in this house:



(k) That is, the judge or neighbours.
#BCV:1Kings 8:32
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:32>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:32</verse></h3>

Then hear thou in heaven, and (l) do, and judge thy servants, condemning the wicked, to bring his
way upon his head; and justifying the righteous, to give him according to his righteousness.



(l) That is, make it known.
#BCV:1Kings 8:33
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:33>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:33</verse></h3>

<page=729>When thy people Israel be smitten down before the enemy, because they have sinned against thee,
and shall turn again to thee, and (m) confess thy name, and pray, and make supplication unto thee in
this house:



(m) Acknowledge your just judgment and praise you.
#BCV:1Kings 8:35
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:35>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:35</verse></h3>

When heaven is (n) shut up, and there is no rain, because they have sinned against thee; if they pray
toward this place, and confess thy name, and turn from their sin, when thou afflictest them:



(n) So that there is a drought to destroy the fruit of the land.
#BCV:1Kings 8:38
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:38>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:38</verse></h3>

What prayer and supplication soever be [made] by any man, [or] by all thy people Israel, which shall
know every man the plague of his own (o) heart, and spread forth his hands toward this house:



(o) For such are most suitable to receive God's mercies.
#BCV:1Kings 8:41
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:41>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:41</verse></h3>

Moreover concerning a (p) stranger, that [is] not of thy people Israel, but cometh out of a far
country for thy name's sake;



(p) He means such as should be turned from their idolatry to serve the true God.
#BCV:1Kings 8:43
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:43>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:43</verse></h3>

Hear thou in heaven thy dwelling place, and do according to all that the stranger calleth to thee for:
that all people of the earth may know thy name, to fear thee, as [do] thy people Israel; and that they
may know that this house, which I have builded, is called by thy (q) name.



(q) That this is the true religion with which you will be worshipped.
#BCV:1Kings 8:47
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:47>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:47</verse></h3>

[Yet] if they shall bethink themselves in the land whither they were carried captives, and repent, and
make supplication unto thee (r) in the land of them that carried them captives, saying, We have
sinned, and have done perversely, we have committed wickedness;



(r) Though the temple was the chief place of prayer, yet he does not exclude them who being forced
by necessity to call upon him in other places.
#BCV:1Kings 8:48
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:48>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:48</verse></h3>


<page=730>And [so] return unto thee with all their heart, and with all their soul, in the land of their enemies,
which led them away captive, and pray unto thee toward (s) their land, which thou gavest unto their
fathers, the city which thou hast chosen, and the house which I have built for thy name:



(s) As Daniel did in (<bcv=Dan 6:10>Dan 6:10</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 8:50
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:50>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:50</verse></h3>

And forgive thy people that have sinned against thee, and all their transgressions wherein they have
transgressed against thee, and give them compassion before them who carried them captive, that
they may (t) have compassion on them:



(t) He understood by faith, that God of enemies would make friends with them who converted to
him.
#BCV:1Kings 8:54
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:54>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:54</verse></h3>

And it was [so], that when Solomon had made an (u) end of praying all this prayer and supplication
unto the LORD, he arose from before the altar of the LORD, from kneeling on his knees with his
hands spread up to heaven.



(u) Solomon is a figure of Christ, who continually is the mediator between God and his Church.
#BCV:1Kings 8:58
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:58>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:58</verse></h3>

That he may (x) incline our hearts unto him, to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments,
and his statutes, and his judgments, which he commanded our fathers.



(x) He concludes that man of himself is enemy to God, and that all obedience to his law proceeds
from his mercy.
#BCV:1Kings 8:63
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:63>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:63</verse></h3>

And Solomon offered a sacrifice of peace offerings, which he offered unto the LORD, two and
twenty thousand oxen, and an hundred and twenty thousand sheep. So the king and all the children
of Israel dedicated the (y) house of the LORD.



(y) Before the oracle where the ark was.
#BCV:1Kings 8:65
<h3><verse=1 Kings 8:65>3 Kings (1 Kings) 8:65</verse></h3>

<page=731>And at that time Solomon held a feast, and all Israel with him, a great congregation, from the
entering in of (z) Hamath unto the river of Egypt, before the LORD our God, (a) seven days and
seven days, [even] fourteen days.



(z) That is, from North to South: meaning all the country.



(a) Seven days for the dedication, and seven for the feast.

<page=732>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 9


#BCV:1Kings 9:4
<h3><verse=1 Kings 9:4>3 Kings (1 Kings) 9:4</verse></h3>

And (a) if thou wilt walk before me, as David thy father walked, in integrity of heart, and in
uprightness, to do according to all that I have commanded thee, [and] wilt keep my statutes and my
judgments:



(a) If you walk in my fear, and withdraw yourself from the common manner of men, who follow
their sensualities.
#BCV:1Kings 9:6
<h3><verse=1 Kings 9:6>3 Kings (1 Kings) 9:6</verse></h3>

[But] if ye shall at all turn from following me, ye or your children, and will (b) not keep my
commandments [and] my statutes which I have set before you, but go and serve other gods, and
worship them:



(b) God declares that disobedience against him, is the cause of his displeasure, and so of all misery.
#BCV:1Kings 9:7
<h3><verse=1 Kings 9:7>3 Kings (1 Kings) 9:7</verse></h3>

Then will I cut off Israel out of the land which I have given them; and this house, which I have
hallowed for my name, will I cast out of my sight; and Israel shall be a (c) proverb and a byword
among all people:



(c) The world will make a mockery of you for the vile contempt and abusing of God's most liberal
benefit.
#BCV:1Kings 9:14
<h3><verse=1 Kings 9:14>3 Kings (1 Kings) 9:14</verse></h3>

And Hiram sent to the king (d) sixscore (e) talents of gold.



(d) For his tribute toward the building.



(e) The common talent was about 60 pound weight.
#BCV:1Kings 9:15
<h3><verse=1 Kings 9:15>3 Kings (1 Kings) 9:15</verse></h3>

And this [is] the reason of the levy which king Solomon raised; for to build the house of the LORD,
and his own house, and (f) Millo, and the wall of Jerusalem, and Hazor, and Megiddo, and Gezer.



(f) Millo was as the town house or place of assembly which was open above.
#BCV:1Kings 9:19
<h3><verse=1 Kings 9:19>3 Kings (1 Kings) 9:19</verse></h3>

<page=733>And all the cities (g) of store that Solomon had, and cities for his chariots, and cities for his
horsemen, and that which Solomon desired to build in Jerusalem, and in Lebanon, and in all the land
of his dominion.



(g) Cities for his ammunition.
#BCV:1Kings 9:20
<h3><verse=1 Kings 9:20>3 Kings (1 Kings) 9:20</verse></h3>

[And] all the people [that were] (h) left of the Amorites, Hittites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites,
which [were] not of the children of Israel,



(h) These were as bondmen and paid what was required, either labour or money.
#BCV:1Kings 9:23
<h3><verse=1 Kings 9:23>3 Kings (1 Kings) 9:23</verse></h3>

These [were] the chief of the officers that [were] over Solomon's work, (i) five hundred and fifty,
which bare rule over the people that wrought in the work.



(i) The overseers of Solomon's works were divided into three parts: the first contained 3300, the
second 300, and the third 250 who were Israelites. Here are the two last parts, which make 550. See
(<bcv=2Ch 8:10>Ch2 8:10</bcv>).
3 Kings (1 Kings) 9:28


And they came to Ophir, and fetched from thence gold, (k) four hundred and twenty talents, and
brought [it] to king Solomon.



(k) In (<bcv=2Ch 8:18>Ch2 8:18</bcv>), 30 more are mentioned who seem to have been employed for their wages.

<page=734>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 10


#BCV:1Kings 10:1
<h3><verse=1 Kings 10:1>3 Kings (1 Kings) 10:1</verse></h3>

And when the queen of (a) Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the
LORD, she came to prove him with hard questions.



(a) Josephus says that she was Queen of Ethiopia, and that Sheba was the name of the chief city of
Meroe, which is an island of the Nile.
#BCV:1Kings 10:5
<h3><verse=1 Kings 10:5>3 Kings (1 Kings) 10:5</verse></h3>

And the (b) meat of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers,
and their apparel, and his cupbearers, and his ascent by which he went up unto the house of the
LORD; there was no more spirit in her.



(b) That is, the whole order, and trade of his house.
#BCV:1Kings 10:8
<h3><verse=1 Kings 10:8>3 Kings (1 Kings) 10:8</verse></h3>

Happy [are] thy men, happy [are] these thy servants, which stand continually before thee, [and] that
hear thy (c) wisdom.



(c) But much more happy are they, who hear the wisdom of God revealed in his word.
#BCV:1Kings 10:9
<h3><verse=1 Kings 10:9>3 Kings (1 Kings) 10:9</verse></h3>

Blessed be the LORD thy God, which (d) delighted in thee, to set thee on the throne of Israel:
because the LORD loved Israel for ever, therefore made he thee king, to do (e) judgment and justice.



(d) It is a chief sign of God's favour, when godly and wise rulers fit in the throne of justice.



(e) This is the reason kings are appointed.
#BCV:1Kings 10:15
<h3><verse=1 Kings 10:15>3 Kings (1 Kings) 10:15</verse></h3>

Beside [that he had] of the merchantmen, and of the traffick of the spice merchants, and of all the
kings of Arabia, and of the governors of the (f) country.



(f) That is, Arabia, which for the great abundance of all things was called Happy.
#BCV:1Kings 10:19
<h3><verse=1 Kings 10:19>3 Kings (1 Kings) 10:19</verse></h3>

<page=735>The throne had six steps, and the top of the throne [was] round behind: and [there were] (g) stays
on either side on the place of the seat, and two lions stood beside the stays.



(g) As the chair bows, or places to lean upon.
#BCV:1Kings 10:22
<h3><verse=1 Kings 10:22>3 Kings (1 Kings) 10:22</verse></h3>

For the king had at sea a navy of Tharshish with the navy of Hiram: once in three years came the
navy of (h) Tharshish, bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks.



(h) By Tharshish is meant Cilicia, which was abundant in the variety of precious things.
<page=736>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 11


#BCV:1Kings 11:1
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:1>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:1</verse></h3>

But king Solomon loved many (a) strange women, together with the daughter of Pharaoh, women
of the Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Zidonians, [and] Hittites;



(a) Who were idolaters.
#BCV:1Kings 11:3
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:3>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:3</verse></h3>

And he had seven hundred wives, princesses, and three hundred (b) concubines: and his wives
turned away his heart.



(b) To whom belonged no dowry.
#BCV:1Kings 11:4
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:4>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:4</verse></h3>

For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, [that] his wives turned away his heart after other gods:
and his heart was not (c) perfect with the LORD his God, as [was] the heart of David his father.



(c) He did not serve God with a pure heart.
#BCV:1Kings 11:5
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:5>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:5</verse></h3>

For Solomon went after Ashtoreth the goddess of the Zidonians, and after (d) Milcom the
abomination of the Ammonites.



(d) Who was also called Molech in (<bcv=I Ki 11:7>Kg1 11:7</bcv>). See also (<bcv=II Ki 23:10>Kg2 23:10</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 11:7
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:7>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:7</verse></h3>

Then did Solomon build an high place for Chemosh, the (e) abomination of Moab, in the hill that [is]
before Jerusalem, and for Molech, the abomination of the children of Ammon.



(e) Thus the scripture calls whatever man reveres and serves as God.
#BCV:1Kings 11:11
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:11>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:11</verse></h3>

Wherefore the LORD said unto Solomon, Forasmuch as (f) this is done of thee, and thou hast not
kept my covenant and my statutes, which I have commanded thee, I will surely rend the kingdom
from thee, and will give it to thy servant.



(f) That you have forsaken me and worshipped idols.
#BCV:1Kings 11:13
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:13>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:13</verse></h3>

<page=737>Howbeit I will not rend away all the kingdom; [but] will give one (g) tribe to thy son for David my
servant's sake, and for Jerusalem's sake which I have chosen.



(g) Because the tribes of Judah and Benjamin had their possessions mixed, they are here taken as
one tribe.
#BCV:1Kings 11:14
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:14>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:14</verse></h3>

And the LORD stirred up an adversary unto Solomon, Hadad the Edomite: he [was] of the king's (h)
seed in Edom.



(h) Of the king of Edom's stock.
#BCV:1Kings 11:15
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:15>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:15</verse></h3>

For it came to pass, when David was in Edom, and Joab the captain of the host was gone up to bury
the (i) slain, after he had smitten every male in Edom;



(i) Of the Edomites.
#BCV:1Kings 11:17
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:17>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:17</verse></h3>

That Hadad (k) fled, he and certain Edomites of his father's servants with him, to go into Egypt;
Hadad [being] yet a little child.



(k) Thus God reserved this idolater as scourge to punish his people's sins.
#BCV:1Kings 11:19
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:19>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:19</verse></h3>

And Hadad (l) found great favour in the sight of Pharaoh, so that he gave him to wife the sister of
his own wife, the sister of Tahpenes the queen.



(l) God brought him honour, that his power might be more able to compass his enterprises against
Solomon's house.
#BCV:1Kings 11:23
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:23>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:23</verse></h3>

And God stirred him up [another] adversary, Rezon the son of Eliadah, which (m) fled from his lord
Hadadezer king of Zobah:



(m) When David had defeated Hadadezer and his army.
#BCV:1Kings 11:24
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:24>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:24</verse></h3>

<page=738>And he gathered men unto him, and became captain over a band, when David slew them [of
Zobah]: and they went to Damascus, and dwelt therein, (n) and reigned in Damascus.



(n) That is, the men whom he had gathered to him.
#BCV:1Kings 11:28
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:28>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:28</verse></h3>

And the man Jeroboam [was] a mighty man of valour: and Solomon seeing the young man that he
was industrious, he made him (o) ruler over all the charge of the house of Joseph.



(o) He was overseer of Solomon's works for the tribe of Ephraim and Manasseh.
#BCV:1Kings 11:30
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:30>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:30</verse></h3>

And Ahijah caught the new garment that [was] on him, and (p) rent it [in] twelve pieces:



(p) By these visible signs the prophets would more deeply print their message into the hearts of
those to whom they were sent.
#BCV:1Kings 11:36
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:36>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:36</verse></h3>

And unto his son will I give one tribe, that David my servant may have a (q) light alway before me in
Jerusalem, the city which I have chosen me to put my name there.



(q) He refers to the Messiah, who would be the bright star that would shine through all the world.
#BCV:1Kings 11:39
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:39>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:39</verse></h3>

And I will (r) for this afflict the seed of David, (s) but not for ever.



(r) For this idolatry that Solomon has committed.



(s) For the whole spiritual kingdom was restored in the Messiah.
#BCV:1Kings 11:41
<h3><verse=1 Kings 11:41>3 Kings (1 Kings) 11:41</verse></h3>

And the rest of the acts of Solomon, and all that he did, and his wisdom, [are] they not written in
the (t) book of the acts of Solomon?



(t) Which it is thought was lost in their captivity.

<page=739>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 12


#BCV:1Kings 12:4
<h3><verse=1 Kings 12:4>3 Kings (1 Kings) 12:4</verse></h3>

Thy father made our yoke grievous: now therefore make thou the grievous service of thy father, and
his heavy yoke which he put upon us, (a) lighter, and we will serve thee.



(a) Do not oppress us with such high taxes, which we are not able to pay.
#BCV:1Kings 12:7
<h3><verse=1 Kings 12:7>3 Kings (1 Kings) 12:7</verse></h3>

And they spake unto him, saying, If thou wilt be a (b) servant unto this people this day, and wilt
serve them, and answer them, and speak good words to them, then they will be thy servants for ever.



(b) They showed him that there was no way to win the people's hearts but to grant them their just
petition.
#BCV:1Kings 12:9
<h3><verse=1 Kings 12:9>3 Kings (1 Kings) 12:9</verse></h3>

And he said unto them, (c) What counsel give ye that we may answer this people, who have spoken
to me, saying, Make the yoke which thy father did put upon us lighter?



(c) There is nothing harder for them that are in authority than to control their desires and follow
good counsel.
#BCV:1Kings 12:10
<h3><verse=1 Kings 12:10>3 Kings (1 Kings) 12:10</verse></h3>

And the young men that were grown up with him spake unto him, saying, Thus shalt thou speak
unto this people that spake unto thee, saying, Thy father made our yoke heavy, but make thou [it]
lighter unto us; thus shalt thou say unto them, My little [finger] shall be (d) thicker than my father's
loins.



(d) I am much more able to keep you in subjection than my father was.
#BCV:1Kings 12:12
<h3><verse=1 Kings 12:12>3 Kings (1 Kings) 12:12</verse></h3>

So Jeroboam and all the people came to Rehoboam the third day, as the king had (e) appointed,
saying, Come to me again the third day.



(e) The people declare their obedience in this that they attempted nothing before the king gave them
just opportunity.
#BCV:1Kings 12:16
<h3><verse=1 Kings 12:16>3 Kings (1 Kings) 12:16</verse></h3>

<page=740>So when all Israel saw that the king hearkened not unto them, the people answered the king, saying,
What portion have we in (f) David? neither [have we] inheritance in the son of Jesse: to your tents,
O Israel: now see to thine own house, David. So Israel departed unto their tents.



(f) Though their cause was good, yet it was hard for the people to control their desires, as these vile
words declare.
#BCV:1Kings 12:19
<h3><verse=1 Kings 12:19>3 Kings (1 Kings) 12:19</verse></h3>

So Israel rebelled against the house (g) of David unto this day.



(g) By the just judgment of God for Solomon's sins.
#BCV:1Kings 12:21
<h3><verse=1 Kings 12:21>3 Kings (1 Kings) 12:21</verse></h3>

And when Rehoboam was come to Jerusalem, he (h) assembled all the house of Judah, with the
tribe of Benjamin, an hundred and fourscore thousand chosen men, which were warriors, to fight
against the house of Israel, to bring the kingdom again to Rehoboam the son of Solomon.



(h) For as yet he did not realize that the Lord had so appointed it.
#BCV:1Kings 12:22
<h3><verse=1 Kings 12:22>3 Kings (1 Kings) 12:22</verse></h3>

But the word of God came unto Shemaiah the (i) man of God, saying,



(i) That is, the Prophet.
#BCV:1Kings 12:24
<h3><verse=1 Kings 12:24>3 Kings (1 Kings) 12:24</verse></h3>

Thus saith the (k) LORD, Ye shall not go up, nor fight against your brethren the children of Israel:
return every man to his house; for this thing is from me. They hearkened therefore to the word of
the LORD, and returned to depart, according to the word of the LORD.



(k) Who of his just judgment will punish the trespasser, and of his mercy spare the innocent people.
#BCV:1Kings 12:27
<h3><verse=1 Kings 12:27>3 Kings (1 Kings) 12:27</verse></h3>

If this people go up to do sacrifice in the house of the LORD (l) at Jerusalem, then shall the heart
of this people turn again unto their lord, [even] unto Rehoboam king of Judah, and they shall kill
me, and go again to Rehoboam king of Judah.



(l) He feared least his people should have by this means been enticed to rebel against him.
#BCV:1Kings 12:28
<h3><verse=1 Kings 12:28>3 Kings (1 Kings) 12:28</verse></h3>


<page=741>Whereupon the king took counsel, and made two calves [of] gold, and said unto them, (m) It is too
much for you to go up to Jerusalem: behold thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the
land of Egypt.



(m) So crafty are carnal persuasions of princes, when they will make a religion serve their appetite.
#BCV:1Kings 12:31
<h3><verse=1 Kings 12:31>3 Kings (1 Kings) 12:31</verse></h3>

And he made an (n) house of high places, and made priests of the lowest of the people, which were
not of the sons of Levi.



(n) That is, a temple, where altars were built for idolatry.
#BCV:1Kings 12:32
<h3><verse=1 Kings 12:32>3 Kings (1 Kings) 12:32</verse></h3>

And Jeroboam ordained a feast in the eighth month, on the (o) fifteenth day of the month, like unto
the feast that [is] in Judah, and he offered upon the altar. So did he in Bethel, sacrificing unto the
calves that he had made: and he placed in Bethel the priests of the high places which he had made.



(o) Because he would bind the people's devotion to his idolatry even more, he made a new holy day,
besides those that the Lord had appointed in the law.

<page=742>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 13


#BCV:1Kings 13:1
<h3><verse=1 Kings 13:1>3 Kings (1 Kings) 13:1</verse></h3>

And, behold, there came (a) a man of God out of Judah by the word of the LORD unto (b) Bethel:
and Jeroboam stood by the altar to burn incense.



(a) That is, a prophet.



(b) Not that that was called Luz in Benjamin, but another of that name.
#BCV:1Kings 13:3
<h3><verse=1 Kings 13:3>3 Kings (1 Kings) 13:3</verse></h3>

And he gave a sign the same day, saying, This [is] the (c) sign which the LORD hath spoken; Behold,
the altar shall be rent, and the ashes that [are] upon it shall be poured out.



(c) By this sign you will know that the Lord has sent me.
#BCV:1Kings 13:4
<h3><verse=1 Kings 13:4>3 Kings (1 Kings) 13:4</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, when king Jeroboam heard the saying of the man of God, which had cried
against the altar in Bethel, that he put forth his hand from the altar, saying, (d) Lay hold on him. And
his hand, which he put forth against him, dried up, so that he could not pull it in again to him.



(d) The wicked rage against the prophets of God, when they declare God's judgment to them.
#BCV:1Kings 13:6
<h3><verse=1 Kings 13:6>3 Kings (1 Kings) 13:6</verse></h3>

And the king answered and said unto the man of God, (e) Intreat now the face of the LORD thy
God, and pray for me, that my hand may be restored me again. And the man of God besought the
LORD, and the king's hand was restored him again, and became as [it was] before.



(e) Though the wicked humble themselves for a time when they feel God's judgment, they return to
their old malice and declare that they are but vile hypocrites.
#BCV:1Kings 13:9
<h3><verse=1 Kings 13:9>3 Kings (1 Kings) 13:9</verse></h3>

For so was it charged me by the word of the LORD, saying, (f) Eat no bread, nor drink water, nor
turn again by the same way that thou camest.



(f) Seeing he had the express word of God, he should not have declined from it, neither for the
persuasion of man nor angel.
#BCV:1Kings 13:15
<h3><verse=1 Kings 13:15>3 Kings (1 Kings) 13:15</verse></h3>

<page=743>Then he said unto him, (g) Come home with me, and eat bread.



(g) This he did of a simple mind, thinking it his duty to declare friendship to a prophet.
#BCV:1Kings 13:18
<h3><verse=1 Kings 13:18>3 Kings (1 Kings) 13:18</verse></h3>

He said unto him, I [am] a prophet also as thou [art]; and an (h) angel spake unto me by the word of
the LORD, saying, Bring him back with thee into thine house, that he may eat bread and drink water.
[But] he lied unto him.



(h) His fault is here double, first in that he did not permit the prophet to obey God's express
commandment, and next that he pretended to have a revelation to the contrary.
#BCV:1Kings 13:21
<h3><verse=1 Kings 13:21>3 Kings (1 Kings) 13:21</verse></h3>

And he cried unto the man of God that came from Judah, saying, Thus saith the LORD, (i)
Forasmuch as thou hast disobeyed the mouth of the LORD, and hast not kept the commandment
which the LORD thy God commanded thee,



(i) God would reprove his folly by him who caused him to err.
#BCV:1Kings 13:24
<h3><verse=1 Kings 13:24>3 Kings (1 Kings) 13:24</verse></h3>

And when he was gone, (k) a lion met him by the way, and slew him: and his carcase was cast in the
way, and the ass stood by it, the lion also stood by the carcase.



(k) By this fearful example, God sets forth how dangerous it is for men to behave coldly, or
deceitfully in the charge to which God has called them.
#BCV:1Kings 13:28
<h3><verse=1 Kings 13:28>3 Kings (1 Kings) 13:28</verse></h3>

And he went and found his carcase cast in the way, and the ass and the lion standing by the carcase:
the lion had (l) not eaten the carcase, nor torn the ass.



(l) To declare that this was only the judgment of God: for if the lion had done it for hunger, he
would also have devoured the body.
3 Kings (1 Kings) 13:30


And he laid his carcase in his (m) own grave; and they mourned over him, [saying], Alas, my brother!



(m) Which he had prepared for himself.

3 Kings (1 Kings) 13:33

<page=744>After this thing Jeroboam (u) returned not from his evil way, but made again of the lowest of the
people priests of the high places: whosoever would, he consecrated him, and he became [one] of the
priests of the high places.



(u) So the wicked do not profit by God's threatenings, but go backward and become worse and
worse, (<bcv=2Ti 3:13>Ti2 3:13</bcv>).

<page=745>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 14


3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:2
And Jeroboam said to his wife, Arise, I pray thee, (a) and disguise thyself, that thou be not known to
be the wife of Jeroboam; and get thee to Shiloh: behold, there [is] Ahijah the prophet, which told
me that [I should be] king over this people.



(a) His own conscience bore witness to him that the prophet of God would not satisfy his desires,
who was a wicked man.
3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:3
And take with (b) thee ten loaves, and cracknels, and a cruse of honey, and go to him: he shall tell
thee what shall become of the child.



(b) According to the custom when they went to ask counsel of prophets, (<bcv=I Sa 9:7>Sa1 9:7</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 14:5
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:5>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:5</verse></h3>

And the LORD said unto Ahijah, Behold, the wife of Jeroboam cometh to ask a thing of thee for
her son; for he [is] sick: thus and thus shalt thou say unto her: for it shall be, when she cometh in,
that she shall feign herself [to be] (c) another [woman].



(c) Than the wife of Jeroboam.
#BCV:1Kings 14:6
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:6>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:6</verse></h3>

And it was [so], when Ahijah heard the sound of her feet, as she came in at the door, that he said,
Come in, thou (d) wife of Jeroboam; why feignest thou thyself [to be] another? for I [am] sent to
thee [with] heavy [tidings].



(d) For God often discloses to his own the craft and subtilty of the wicked.
#BCV:1Kings 14:7
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:7>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:7</verse></h3>

Go, tell Jeroboam, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Forasmuch as I exalted (e) thee from
among the people, and made thee prince over my people Israel,



(e) Who was but a servant.
#BCV:1Kings 14:9
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:9>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:9</verse></h3>

<page=746>But hast done evil above all that were before thee: for thou hast gone and made thee other gods, and



(i) molten images, to provoke me to anger, and hast cast me behind thy back:



(i) That is, two calves.
#BCV:1Kings 14:10
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:10>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:10</verse></h3>

Therefore, behold, I will bring evil upon the house of Jeroboam, and will cut off from Jeroboam
him that (g) pisseth against the wall, [and] him that (h) is shut up and left in Israel, and will take away
the remnant of the house of Jeroboam, as a man taketh away dung, till it be all gone.



(g) Every male even to the dogs, (<bcv=I Sa 25:22>Sa1 25:22</bcv>).



(h) As well him that is in the stronghold, as him that is abroad.
#BCV:1Kings 14:11
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:11>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:11</verse></h3>

Him that dieth of Jeroboam in the city shall the dogs eat; and him that dieth in the field shall the
fowls of the air eat: (i) for the LORD hath spoken [it].



(i) They will lack the honour of burial in token of God's curse.
#BCV:1Kings 14:13
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:13>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:13</verse></h3>

And all Israel shall mourn for him, and bury him: for he only of Jeroboam shall come to the grave,
because in him there is found (k) [some] good thing toward the LORD God of Israel in the house
of Jeroboam.



(k) In the midst of the wicked, God has some on whom he bestows his mercies.
#BCV:1Kings 14:14
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:14>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:14</verse></h3>

Moreover the LORD shall raise him up a king over Israel, who shall cut off the house of Jeroboam
that day: (l) but what? even now.



(l) The Lord will begin to destroy it out of hand.
#BCV:1Kings 14:15
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:15>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:15</verse></h3>

For the LORD shall smite Israel, as a reed is shaken in the water, and he shall root up Israel out of
this good land, which he gave to their fathers, and shall scatter them beyond the (m) river, because
they have made their groves, provoking the LORD to anger.



(m) Meaning the Euphrates.
#BCV:1Kings 14:16
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:16>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:16</verse></h3>

<page=747>And he shall give Israel up because of the sins of Jeroboam, who did sin, and who (n) made Israel
to sin.



(n) The people will not be excused when they do evil at the commandment of their governors.
#BCV:1Kings 14:20
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:20>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:20</verse></h3>

And the days which Jeroboam reigned [were] two and twenty years: and he (o) slept with his fathers,
and Nadab his son reigned in his stead.



(o) The Lord smote him and he died, (<bcv=2Ch 13:20>Ch2 13:20</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 14:21
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:21>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:21</verse></h3>

And Rehoboam the son of Solomon reigned in Judah. Rehoboam [was] forty and one years old
when he began to reign, and he reigned seventeen (p) years in Jerusalem, the city which the LORD
did choose out of all the tribes of Israel, to put his name there. And his mother's name [was]
Naamah an Ammonitess.



(p) And died about four years before Jeroboam.
#BCV:1Kings 14:24
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:24>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:24</verse></h3>

And there were also sodomites in the (q) land: [and] they did according to all the abominations of
the nations which the LORD cast out before the children of Israel.



(q) Where idolatry reigns, all horrible vices are committed, till at length God's just judgment destroys
them completely.
#BCV:1Kings 14:29
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:29>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:29</verse></h3>

Now the rest of the acts of Rehoboam, and all that he did, [are] they not written in (r) the book of
the chronicles of the kings of Judah?



(r) Which were called the books of Shemaiah and Iddo the prophets, (<bcv=2Ch 12:15>Ch2 12:15</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 14:30
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:30>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:30</verse></h3>

And there was war between Rehoboam and Jeroboam (s) all [their] days.



(s) That is, all the days of Rehoboam's life.
#BCV:1Kings 14:31
<h3><verse=1 Kings 14:31>3 Kings (1 Kings) 14:31</verse></h3>

<page=748>And Rehoboam slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David. And his
mother's name [was] Naamah an (t) Ammonitess. And Abijam his son reigned in his stead.



(t) Whose idolatry Rehoboam her son followed.

<page=749>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 15


#BCV:1Kings 15:2
<h3><verse=1 Kings 15:2>3 Kings (1 Kings) 15:2</verse></h3>

Three years reigned he in Jerusalem. And his mother's name [was] Maachah, the daughter of (a)
Abishalom.



(a) Some think that this was Absalom Solomon's son.
#BCV:1Kings 15:4
<h3><verse=1 Kings 15:4>3 Kings (1 Kings) 15:4</verse></h3>

Nevertheless for David's sake did the LORD his God give him a (b) lamp in Jerusalem, to set up his
son after him, and to establish Jerusalem:



(b) Meaning, a son to reign over Judah.
#BCV:1Kings 15:10
<h3><verse=1 Kings 15:10>3 Kings (1 Kings) 15:10</verse></h3>

And forty and one years reigned he in Jerusalem. And his (c) mother's name [was] Maachah, the
daughter of Abishalom.



(c) That is, his grandmother, as David is often called the father of those who are his grandchildren.
#BCV:1Kings 15:13
<h3><verse=1 Kings 15:13>3 Kings (1 Kings) 15:13</verse></h3>

And also Maachah his mother, even her he (d) removed from [being] queen, because she had made
an idol in a grove; and Asa destroyed her idol, and burnt [it] by the brook Kidron.



(d) Neither kindred nor authority should be regarded when they blaspheme God and become
idolaters, but must be punished.
#BCV:1Kings 15:14
<h3><verse=1 Kings 15:14>3 Kings (1 Kings) 15:14</verse></h3>

But the high places were not removed: nevertheless Asa's heart was (e) perfect with the LORD all
his days.



(e) Though he permitted them to worship God in other places than he had appointed it came from
ignorance, and not from malice.
#BCV:1Kings 15:17
<h3><verse=1 Kings 15:17>3 Kings (1 Kings) 15:17</verse></h3>

And Baasha king of Israel went up against Judah, and built (f) Ramah, that he might not suffer any
to go out or come in to Asa king of Judah.

<page=750>(f) For the same reason that Jeroboam did, because the people should not go up to Jerusalem, least
they follow Asa.
#BCV:1Kings 15:19
<h3><verse=1 Kings 15:19>3 Kings (1 Kings) 15:19</verse></h3>

[There is] a league between me and thee, [and] between my father and thy father: behold, I have sent
unto thee a present of silver and gold; come and break thy league with Baasha king of Israel, that he
may (g) depart from me.



(g) And vex me no longer.
#BCV:1Kings 15:23
<h3><verse=1 Kings 15:23>3 Kings (1 Kings) 15:23</verse></h3>

The rest of all the acts of Asa, and all his might, and all that he did, and the cities which he built,
[are] they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Judah? Nevertheless in the time
of his old age he was diseased in his (h) feet.



(h) He had gout and put his trust physicians rather than in the Lord, (<bcv=2Ch 16:12>Ch2 16:12</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 15:24
<h3><verse=1 Kings 15:24>3 Kings (1 Kings) 15:24</verse></h3>

And Asa slept with his fathers, and was buried with his fathers in the city of David his (i) father: and
Jehoshaphat his son reigned in his stead.



(i) His great-grandfather.
#BCV:1Kings 15:29
<h3><verse=1 Kings 15:29>3 Kings (1 Kings) 15:29</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, when he reigned, [that] he (k) smote all the house of Jeroboam; he left not to
Jeroboam any that breathed, until he had destroyed him, according unto the saying of the LORD,
which he spake by his servant Ahijah the Shilonite:



(k) So God stirred up one tyrant to punish the wickedness of another.
#BCV:1Kings 15:30
<h3><verse=1 Kings 15:30>3 Kings (1 Kings) 15:30</verse></h3>

Because of the sins of Jeroboam which he sinned, and which he made Israel sin, by his (l)
provocation wherewith he provoked the LORD God of Israel to anger.



(l) By causing the people to commit idolatry with his calves, and so provoking God to anger.
#BCV:1Kings 15:33
<h3><verse=1 Kings 15:33>3 Kings (1 Kings) 15:33</verse></h3>

<page=751>In the third year of Asa king of Judah began Baasha the son of Ahijah to reign over all Israel in (m)
Tirzah, twenty and four years.



(m) Which was the place where the kings of Israel remained.

<page=752>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 16


#BCV:1Kings 16:2
<h3><verse=1 Kings 16:2>3 Kings (1 Kings) 16:2</verse></h3>




(a) Forasmuch as I exalted thee out of the dust, and made thee prince over my people Israel; and
thou hast walked in the way of Jeroboam, and hast made my people Israel to sin, to provoke me to
anger with their sins;



(a) Thus spoke Jehu to Baasha in the Name of the Lord.
#BCV:1Kings 16:3
<h3><verse=1 Kings 16:3>3 Kings (1 Kings) 16:3</verse></h3>

Behold, I will take away the posterity of Baasha, and the posterity of his house; and will make (b)
thy house like the house of Jeroboam the son of Nebat.



(b) Meaning, the house of Baasha.
#BCV:1Kings 16:7
<h3><verse=1 Kings 16:7>3 Kings (1 Kings) 16:7</verse></h3>

And also (c) by the hand of the prophet Jehu the son of Hanani came the word of the LORD
against Baasha, and against his house, even for all the evil that he did in the sight of the LORD, in
provoking him to anger with the work of his hands, in being like the house of Jeroboam; and
because he killed (d) him.



(c) That is, the prophet did his message.



(d) Meaning, Nadab Jeroboam's son.
#BCV:1Kings 16:9
<h3><verse=1 Kings 16:9>3 Kings (1 Kings) 16:9</verse></h3>

And his servant Zimri, captain of half [his] chariots, conspired against him, as he was in Tirzah, (e)
drinking himself drunk in the house of Arza steward of [his] house in Tirzah.



(e) The Chaldee text has this, "Drinking till he was drunk in the temple of Arza the idol by his house
in Tirzah".
#BCV:1Kings 16:12
<h3><verse=1 Kings 16:12>3 Kings (1 Kings) 16:12</verse></h3>

Thus did Zimri destroy all the house of Baasha, according to the word of the LORD, which he
spake against Baasha by Jehu the (f) prophet,



(f) Both Hanani his father and he were prophets.
#BCV:1Kings 16:15
<h3><verse=1 Kings 16:15>3 Kings (1 Kings) 16:15</verse></h3>

<page=753>In the twenty and seventh year of Asa king of Judah did Zimri reign seven days in Tirzah. And the
people [were] encamped (g) against Gibbethon, which [belonged] to the Philistines.



(g) The siege had continued from the time of Nadab Jeroboam's son.
#BCV:1Kings 16:17
<h3><verse=1 Kings 16:17>3 Kings (1 Kings) 16:17</verse></h3>

And Omri went up from Gibbethon, and all Israel with him, and they besieged (h) Tirzah.



(h) Where Zimri holed up.
#BCV:1Kings 16:21
<h3><verse=1 Kings 16:21>3 Kings (1 Kings) 16:21</verse></h3>

Then were the people of Israel divided into two parts: (i) half of the people followed Tibni the son
of Ginath, to make him king; and half followed Omri.



(i) That is, the people who were not at the siege of Gibbethon: for there they had chosen Omri.
#BCV:1Kings 16:25
<h3><verse=1 Kings 16:25>3 Kings (1 Kings) 16:25</verse></h3>

But Omri wrought evil in the eyes of the LORD, and did (k) worse than all that [were] before him.



(k) For such is the nature of idolatry, that the superstition of it daily increases, and the older it is, the
more abominable it is before God and his Church.
#BCV:1Kings 16:28
<h3><verse=1 Kings 16:28>3 Kings (1 Kings) 16:28</verse></h3>

So Omri slept with his fathers, and was buried in (l) Samaria: and Ahab his son reigned in his stead.



(l) He was the first king that was buried in Samaria, after that the kings house was burnt in Tirzah.
#BCV:1Kings 16:31
<h3><verse=1 Kings 16:31>3 Kings (1 Kings) 16:31</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, as if it had been a light thing for him to walk in the sins of Jeroboam the son
of Nebat, that he took (m) to wife Jezebel the daughter of Ethbaal king of the Zidonians, and went
and served Baal, and worshipped him.



(m) By whose influence he fell into wicked and strange idolatry and cruel persecution.
#BCV:1Kings 16:34
<h3><verse=1 Kings 16:34>3 Kings (1 Kings) 16:34</verse></h3>

In his days did Hiel the Bethelite build (n) Jericho: he laid the foundation thereof in Abiram his
firstborn, and set up the gates thereof in his youngest [son] Segub, according to the word of the
LORD, which he spake by Joshua the son of Nun.

<page=754>(n) See (Jos 6:26).

<page=755>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 17


#BCV:1Kings 17:1
<h3><verse=1 Kings 17:1>3 Kings (1 Kings) 17:1</verse></h3>

And Elijah the Tishbite, [who was] of the inhabitants of Gilead, said unto Ahab, [As] the LORD
God of Israel liveth, before whom I (a) stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but (b)
according to my word.



(a) That is, whom I serve.



(b) But as I will declare it by God's revelation.
#BCV:1Kings 17:4
<h3><verse=1 Kings 17:4>3 Kings (1 Kings) 17:4</verse></h3>

And it shall be, [that] thou shalt drink of the brook; and I have commanded the (c) ravens to feed
thee there.



(c) To strengthen his faith against persecution, God promises to feed him miraculously.
#BCV:1Kings 17:8
<h3><verse=1 Kings 17:8>3 Kings (1 Kings) 17:8</verse></h3>

And the (d) word of the LORD came unto him, saying,



(d) As the troubles of the saints of God are many, so his mercy is always at hand to deliver them.
#BCV:1Kings 17:10
<h3><verse=1 Kings 17:10>3 Kings (1 Kings) 17:10</verse></h3>

So he arose and went to Zarephath. And when he came to the gate of the city, behold, the widow
woman [was] there (e) gathering of sticks: and he called to her, and said, Fetch me, I pray thee, a
little water in a vessel, that I may drink.



(e) All this was to strengthen the faith of Elijah, to the intent that he would look for nothing worldly,
but only trust God's providence.
#BCV:1Kings 17:12
<h3><verse=1 Kings 17:12>3 Kings (1 Kings) 17:12</verse></h3>

And she said, [As] the LORD thy God liveth, I have not a cake, but an handful of meal in a barrel,
and a little oil in a cruse: and, behold, I [am] gathering two sticks, that I may go in and dress it for
me and my son, that we may eat it, and (f) die.



(f) For there is no hope of any more sustenance.
#BCV:1Kings 17:14
<h3><verse=1 Kings 17:14>3 Kings (1 Kings) 17:14</verse></h3>

<page=756>For thus saith the LORD God of Israel, (g) The barrel of meal shall not waste, neither shall the
cruse of oil fail, until the day [that] the LORD sendeth rain upon the earth.



(g) God receives no benefit for the use of his own, but he promises an ample recompence for them.
#BCV:1Kings 17:15
<h3><verse=1 Kings 17:15>3 Kings (1 Kings) 17:15</verse></h3>

And she went and did according to the saying of Elijah: and she, and he, and her house, did eat (h)
[many] days.



(h) That is, till he had rain and food on the earth.
#BCV:1Kings 17:17
<h3><verse=1 Kings 17:17>3 Kings (1 Kings) 17:17</verse></h3>

And it came to pass after these things, [that] the son of the woman, the mistress of the house, fell
sick; and his sickness was so sore, that there was no (i) breath left in him.



(i) God would test whether she had learned by his merciful providence to make him her only stay
and comfort.
#BCV:1Kings 17:20
<h3><verse=1 Kings 17:20>3 Kings (1 Kings) 17:20</verse></h3>

And he cried unto the LORD, and said, O LORD my God, hast thou also (k) brought evil upon the
widow with whom I sojourn, by slaying her son?



(k) He was afraid lest God's name be blasphemed and his ministry contemned, unless he continued
his mercies as he had begun them, especially while he remained there.
#BCV:1Kings 17:24
<h3><verse=1 Kings 17:24>3 Kings (1 Kings) 17:24</verse></h3>

And the woman said to Elijah, Now by this (l) I know that thou [art] a man of God, [and] that the
word of the LORD in thy mouth [is] truth.



(l) It is hard to depend on God, unless we are confirmed by miracles.

<page=757>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 18


#BCV:1Kings 18:1
<h3><verse=1 Kings 18:1>3 Kings (1 Kings) 18:1</verse></h3>

And it came to pass [after] many days, that the word of the LORD came to Elijah in the (a) third
year, saying, Go, shew thyself unto Ahab; and I will send rain upon the earth.



(a) After that he departed from the river Cherith.
#BCV:1Kings 18:3
<h3><verse=1 Kings 18:3>3 Kings (1 Kings) 18:3</verse></h3>

And Ahab called Obadiah, which [was] the governor of [his] house. (Now Obadiah (b) feared the
LORD greatly:



(b) God had begun to work his fear in his heart, but had not yet brought him to the knowledge
which is also required of the godly: that is, to profess his Name openly.
#BCV:1Kings 18:7
<h3><verse=1 Kings 18:7>3 Kings (1 Kings) 18:7</verse></h3>

And as Obadiah was in the way, behold, Elijah (c) met him: and he knew him, and fell on his face,
and said, [Art] thou that my lord Elijah?



(c) God often pities the wicked for the sake of the godly, and causes Elijah to meet with Obadiah,
that the blessing might be known to be granted for the sake of God's children.
#BCV:1Kings 18:12
<h3><verse=1 Kings 18:12>3 Kings (1 Kings) 18:12</verse></h3>

And it shall come to pass, [as soon as] I am gone from thee, that the Spirit of the LORD shall carry
thee whither I know not; and [so] when I come and tell Ahab, and he cannot find thee, he shall slay
me: but I thy servant (d) fear the LORD from my youth.



(d) I am not of the wicked persecutors that you should procure to me such displeasure, but serve
God and favour his children.
#BCV:1Kings 18:15
<h3><verse=1 Kings 18:15>3 Kings (1 Kings) 18:15</verse></h3>

And Elijah said, [As] the LORD of hosts liveth, before whom I stand, I will surely shew (e) myself
unto him to day.



(e) By my presence I will declare that you have told him the truth.
#BCV:1Kings 18:18
<h3><verse=1 Kings 18:18>3 Kings (1 Kings) 18:18</verse></h3>

<page=758>And he answered, I have not troubled Israel; but (f) thou, and thy father's house, in that ye have
forsaken the commandments of the LORD, and thou hast followed Baalim.



(f) The true ministers of God should not only not permit falsehoods, but should boldly reprove the
wicked slanderers without respect of persons.
#BCV:1Kings 18:21
<h3><verse=1 Kings 18:21>3 Kings (1 Kings) 18:21</verse></h3>

And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long (g) halt ye between two opinions? if the
LORD [be] God, follow him: but if Baal, [then] follow him. And the people answered him not a
word.



(g) Be consistent in religion and do not be indifferent, whether you follow God or Baal, or whether
you serve God wholly or in part, (<bcv=Zep 1:5>Zep 1:5</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 18:24
<h3><verse=1 Kings 18:24>3 Kings (1 Kings) 18:24</verse></h3>

And call ye on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the LORD: and the God that
answereth (h) by fire, let him be God. And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken.



(h) By sending down fire from heaven to burn the sacrifice.
#BCV:1Kings 18:26
<h3><verse=1 Kings 18:26>3 Kings (1 Kings) 18:26</verse></h3>

And they took the bullock which was given them, and they dressed [it], and called on the name of
Baal from morning even until noon, saying, O Baal, hear us. But [there was] no voice, nor any that
answered. And they (i) leaped upon the altar which was made.



(i) As men possessed by some strange spirit.
#BCV:1Kings 18:27
<h3><verse=1 Kings 18:27>3 Kings (1 Kings) 18:27</verse></h3>

And it came to pass at noon, that Elijah mocked them, and said, Cry aloud: for he [is] a god; either
he is talking, or he is pursuing, or he is in a journey, [or] peradventure he sleepeth, and must be (l)
awaked.



(l) He mocks their beastly madness, who think that by any instance or suit, the dead and vile idols
can help their worshippers in their necessity.
#BCV:1Kings 18:35
<h3><verse=1 Kings 18:35>3 Kings (1 Kings) 18:35</verse></h3>

And the water ran round about the altar; and he (m) filled the trench also with water.

<page=759>(m) By this he declared the excellent power of God, who contrary to nature could make the fire
burn even in the water, so that they should have no opportunity to doubt that he is the only God.
#BCV:1Kings 18:37
<h3><verse=1 Kings 18:37>3 Kings (1 Kings) 18:37</verse></h3>

Hear me, O LORD, hear me, that this people may know that thou [art] the LORD God, and [that]
thou hast turned their heart back (n) again.



(n) Though God permits his to run in blindness and error for a time, yet eventually he calls them
home to him by some notorious sign and work.
#BCV:1Kings 18:40
<h3><verse=1 Kings 18:40>3 Kings (1 Kings) 18:40</verse></h3>

And Elijah said unto them, Take the prophets of Baal; let not (o) one of them escape. And they
took them: and Elijah brought them down to the brook Kishon, and slew them there.



(o) He commanded them that as they were truly persuaded to confess the only God: so they should
serve him with all their power, and destroy the idolaters his enemies.
#BCV:1Kings 18:43
<h3><verse=1 Kings 18:43>3 Kings (1 Kings) 18:43</verse></h3>

And said to his servant, Go up now, look toward the sea. And he went up, and looked, and said,
[There is] nothing. And he said, Go again (p) seven times.



(p) As God's spirit moved him to pray, so was he strengthened by the same that he did not faint, but
continued still till he had obtained.
#BCV:1Kings 18:46
<h3><verse=1 Kings 18:46>3 Kings (1 Kings) 18:46</verse></h3>

And the hand of the LORD was on Elijah; and he girded up his loins, and ran (q) before Ahab to
the entrance of Jezreel.



(q) He was so strengthened by God's spirit that he ran faster than the chariot was able to run.

<page=760>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 19


#BCV:1Kings 19:1
<h3><verse=1 Kings 19:1>3 Kings (1 Kings) 19:1</verse></h3>

And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and withal how he had slain all the (a) prophets with
the sword.



(a) That is, of Baal.
#BCV:1Kings 19:2
<h3><verse=1 Kings 19:2>3 Kings (1 Kings) 19:2</verse></h3>

Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, (b) So let the gods do [to me], and more also, if I
make not thy life as the life of one of them by to morrow about this time.



(b) Though the wicked rage against God's children, yet he holds them back so they cannot execute
their malice.
#BCV:1Kings 19:4
<h3><verse=1 Kings 19:4>3 Kings (1 Kings) 19:4</verse></h3>

But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree:
and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, (c) take away
my life; for I [am] not better than my fathers.



(c) It is so hard to control our impatience in affliction, that the saints could not overcome the same.
#BCV:1Kings 19:7
<h3><verse=1 Kings 19:7>3 Kings (1 Kings) 19:7</verse></h3>

And the angel of the LORD came again the second time, and touched him, and said, Arise [and] eat;
because (d) the journey [is] too great for thee.



(d) He declares that unless God had nourished him miraculously it would have been impossible for
him to have gone on this journey.
#BCV:1Kings 19:10
<h3><verse=1 Kings 19:10>3 Kings (1 Kings) 19:10</verse></h3>

And he said, I have (e) been very jealous for the LORD God of hosts: for the children of Israel
have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I,
[even] I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.



(e) He complains that the more zealous he was to maintain God's glory, the more cruelly he was
persecuted.
#BCV:1Kings 19:11
<h3><verse=1 Kings 19:11>3 Kings (1 Kings) 19:11</verse></h3>

<page=761>And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD
passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the
LORD; [but] the LORD [was] (f) not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; [but] the
LORD [was] not in the earthquake:



(f) For the nature of man is not able to come near God, if he appeared in his strength and full
majesty, and therefore he mercifully submits himself to our limitations.
#BCV:1Kings 19:14
<h3><verse=1 Kings 19:14>3 Kings (1 Kings) 19:14</verse></h3>

And he said, I have been very jealous for the LORD God of hosts: (g) because the children of Israel
have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I,
[even] I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.



(g) So should not depend on the multitude in maintaining God's glory, but because our duty requires
us to do it.
#BCV:1Kings 19:18
<h3><verse=1 Kings 19:18>3 Kings (1 Kings) 19:18</verse></h3>

Yet I have left [me] seven thousand in Israel, (h) all the knees which have not bowed unto Baal, and
every mouth which hath not kissed him.



(h) He declares that wicked deceivers and idolaters are not his.
#BCV:1Kings 19:20
<h3><verse=1 Kings 19:20>3 Kings (1 Kings) 19:20</verse></h3>

And he left the oxen, and ran after Elijah, and said, (i) Let me, I pray thee, kiss my father and my
mother, and [then] I will follow thee. And he said unto him, Go back again: for what have I done to
thee?



(i) Though this natural affection is not to be contemned, yet it should not move us when God calls
us to serve him.
#BCV:1Kings 19:21
<h3><verse=1 Kings 19:21>3 Kings (1 Kings) 19:21</verse></h3>

And he returned back from him, and took a yoke of oxen, and slew them, and boiled their flesh
with the (k) instruments of the oxen, and gave unto the people, and they did eat. Then he arose, and
went after Elijah, and ministered unto him.



(k) He would not stay till wood was brought, so great was his desire to follow his calling.

<page=762>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 20


#BCV:1Kings 20:1
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:1>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:1</verse></h3>

And Benhadad the king of Syria gathered all his host together: and [there were] thirty and two (a)
kings with him, and horses, and chariots: and he went up and besieged Samaria, and warred against it.



(a) That is, governors and rulers of provinces.
#BCV:1Kings 20:4
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:4>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:4</verse></h3>

And the king of Israel answered and said, My lord, O king, according to thy saying, (b) I [am] thine,
and all that I have.



(b) I am content to obey and pay tribute.
#BCV:1Kings 20:6
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:6>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:6</verse></h3>




(c) Yet I will send my servants unto thee to morrow about this time, and they shall search thine
house, and the houses of thy servants; and it shall be, [that] whatsoever is pleasant in thine eyes, they
shall put [it] in their hand, and take [it] away.



(c) He would not accept his answer unless he out of hand delivered whatever he asked, for he
sought an opportunity to make war against him.
#BCV:1Kings 20:8
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:8>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:8</verse></h3>

And all the elders and all the people said unto him, Hearken (d) not [unto him], nor consent.



(d) They thought it their duty to risk their lives, rather than grant that thing which was not lawful,
only to satisfy the lust of a tyrant.
#BCV:1Kings 20:10
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:10>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:10</verse></h3>

And Benhadad sent unto him, and said, The gods do so unto me, and more also, if the (e) dust of
Samaria shall suffice for handfuls for all the people that follow me.



(e) Much less will there be found any prey that is worth anything, when they are so many.
#BCV:1Kings 20:11
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:11>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:11</verse></h3>

And the king of Israel answered and said, Tell [him], Let not him that girdeth on [his harness] boast
himself as he that (f) putteth it off.

<page=763>(f) Do not boast before the victory is won.


#BCV:1Kings 20:13
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:13>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:13</verse></h3>

And, behold, there came a prophet unto Ahab king of Israel, saying, Thus saith the LORD, Hast
thou seen all this great multitude? behold, I will deliver it into thine hand this day; and thou shalt
know (g) that I [am] the LORD.



(g) Before God went about with signs and miracles to pull Ahab from his impiety, and now again
with wonderful victories.
#BCV:1Kings 20:17
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:17>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:17</verse></h3>

And the (h) young men of the princes of the provinces went out first; and Benhadad sent out, and
they told him, saying, There are men come out of Samaria.



(h) That is, young men trained in the service of princes.
#BCV:1Kings 20:20
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:20>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:20</verse></h3>

And they slew every one his man: and the Syrians fled; and Israel pursued them: and Benhadad the
king of Syria escaped on an horse with the (i) horsemen.



(i) They who were appointed for the preservation of his person.
#BCV:1Kings 20:23
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:23>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:23</verse></h3>

And the servants of the king of Syria said unto him, Their (k) gods [are] gods of the hills; therefore
they were stronger than we; but let us fight against them in the plain, and surely we shall be stronger
than they.



(k) Thus the wicked blaspheme God in their fury, who nonetheless he does not permit to go
unpunished.
#BCV:1Kings 20:27
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:27>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:27</verse></h3>

And the children of Israel were numbered, and were all (l) present, and went against them: and the
children of Israel pitched before them like two little flocks of kids; but the Syrians filled the country.



(l) All those who were in the battle of the previous years, (<bcv=I Ki 20:15>Kg1 20:15</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 20:28
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:28>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:28</verse></h3>

<page=764>And there came a man of God, and spake unto the king of Israel, and said, Thus saith the LORD,
Because the Syrians have said, The LORD [is] God of the hills, but he [is] not God of the valleys,
therefore will I deliver all this great multitude into thine hand, and ye shall know that (m) I [am] the
LORD.



(m) Who has the same power in the valley as on the hills and can also destroy a multitude with few
as with many.
#BCV:1Kings 20:31
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:31>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:31</verse></h3>

And his servants said unto him, Behold now, we have heard that the kings of the house of Israel
[are] merciful kings: let us, I pray thee, put sackcloth on our (n) loins, and ropes upon our heads, and
go out to the king of Israel: peradventure he will save thy life.



(n) In sign of submission and that we have deserved death, if he will punish us with rigour.
#BCV:1Kings 20:33
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:33>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:33</verse></h3>

Now the men did diligently observe whether [any thing would come] from him, and did hastily catch
[it]: and they said, Thy brother (o) Benhadad. Then he said, Go ye, bring him. Then Benhadad came
forth to him; and he caused him to come up into the chariot.



(o) He is alive.
#BCV:1Kings 20:34
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:34>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:34</verse></h3>

And [Benhadad] said unto him, The cities, which my father took from thy father, I will restore; and
thou shalt make streets for thee in (p) Damascus, as my father made in Samaria. Then [said Ahab], I
will send thee away with this covenant. So he made a covenant with him, and sent him away.



(p) You shall appoint in my chief city what you will, and I will obey you.
#BCV:1Kings 20:35
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:35>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:35</verse></h3>

And a certain man of the sons of the prophets said unto his neighbour in the word of the LORD,



(q) Smite me, I pray thee. And the man refused to smite him.



(q) By this external sign he would more likely touch the king's heart.
#BCV:1Kings 20:36
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:36>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:36</verse></h3>

Then said he unto him, Because thou hast not obeyed the voice of the LORD, behold, as soon as
thou art departed from me, a lion shall (r) slay thee. And as soon as he was departed from him, a
lion found him, and slew him.

<page=765>(r) Because you have transgressed the commandment of the Lord.


#BCV:1Kings 20:39
<h3><verse=1 Kings 20:39>3 Kings (1 Kings) 20:39</verse></h3>

And as the king passed by, he cried unto the king: and he said, (s) Thy servant went out into the
midst of the battle; and, behold, a man turned aside, and brought a man unto me, and said, Keep
this man: if by any means he be missing, then shall thy life be for his life, or else thou shalt pay a
talent of silver.



(s) By this parable he makes Ahab condemn himself who made a covenant with God's enemy, and
let him escape whom God had appointed to be slain.

<page=766>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 21


#BCV:1Kings 21:2
<h3><verse=1 Kings 21:2>3 Kings (1 Kings) 21:2</verse></h3>

And Ahab spake unto Naboth, saying, (a) Give me thy vineyard, that I may have it for a garden of
herbs, because it [is] near unto my house: and I will give thee for it a better vineyard than it; [or], if it
seem good to thee, I will give thee the worth of it in money.



(a) Though Ahab's tyranny is condemned by the Holy Spirit, yet he was not so rigorous that he
would take from another man his right without full recompense.
#BCV:1Kings 21:4
<h3><verse=1 Kings 21:4>3 Kings (1 Kings) 21:4</verse></h3>

And Ahab came into his house heavy and displeased because of the word which Naboth the
Jezreelite had spoken to him: for he had said, I will not give thee the inheritance of my fathers. And
he laid him down (b) upon his bed, and turned away his face, and would eat no bread.



(b) Thus the wicked do not consider what is just and lawful, but fret inwardly when they cannot have
their inordinate lusts satisfied.
#BCV:1Kings 21:7
<h3><verse=1 Kings 21:7>3 Kings (1 Kings) 21:7</verse></h3>

And Jezebel his wife said unto him, (c) Dost thou now govern the kingdom of Israel? arise, [and] eat
bread, and let thine heart be merry: I will give thee the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite.



(c) As though she said, "You do not know what it means to reign. Command and do not beg".
#BCV:1Kings 21:9
<h3><verse=1 Kings 21:9>3 Kings (1 Kings) 21:9</verse></h3>

And she wrote in the letters, saying, Proclaim a (d) fast, and set Naboth on high among the people:



(d) For then they used to enquire of men's faults: for no one could truly fast if he was a notorious
sinner.
#BCV:1Kings 21:11
<h3><verse=1 Kings 21:11>3 Kings (1 Kings) 21:11</verse></h3>

And the (e) men of his city, [even] the elders and the nobles who were the inhabitants in his city, did
as Jezebel had sent unto them, [and] as it [was] written in the letters which she had sent unto them.



(e) Thus the worldlings contrary to God's commandment, who does not consent to the shedding of
innocent blood, would rather obey the wicked commandments of princes than the just laws.
#BCV:1Kings 21:15
<h3><verse=1 Kings 21:15>3 Kings (1 Kings) 21:15</verse></h3>

<page=767>And it came to pass, when Jezebel heard that Naboth was stoned, and was dead, that Jezebel said to
Ahab, (f) Arise, take possession of the vineyard of Naboth the Jezreelite, which he refused to give
thee for money: for Naboth is not alive, but dead.



(f) This example of monstrous cruelty the Holy Spirit leaves to us, to the intent that we should
abhor all tyranny, and especially in those whom nature and kind should move to be pitiful and
inclined to mercy.
#BCV:1Kings 21:19
<h3><verse=1 Kings 21:19>3 Kings (1 Kings) 21:19</verse></h3>

And thou shalt speak unto him, saying, Thus saith the LORD, (g) Hast thou killed, and also taken
possession? And thou shalt speak unto him, saying, Thus saith the LORD, (h) In the place where
dogs licked the blood of Naboth shall dogs lick thy blood, even thine.



(g) Do you think to have an advantage by murdering an innocent?



(h) This was fulfilled in Joram his son (<bcv=II Ki 9:25-26>Kg2 9:25-26</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 21:25
<h3><verse=1 Kings 21:25>3 Kings (1 Kings) 21:25</verse></h3>

But there was none like unto Ahab, which did (i) sell himself to work wickedness in the sight of the
LORD, whom Jezebel his wife stirred up.



(i) By the wicked counsel of his wife he became a vile idolater, and cruel murderer, as one that gave
himself wholly to serve sin.
#BCV:1Kings 21:27
<h3><verse=1 Kings 21:27>3 Kings (1 Kings) 21:27</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, when Ahab heard those words, that he rent his clothes, and put sackcloth upon
his flesh, and fasted, and lay in sackcloth, and went (k) softly.



(k) In token of mourning, or as some read, barefooted.
#BCV:1Kings 21:29
<h3><verse=1 Kings 21:29>3 Kings (1 Kings) 21:29</verse></h3>

Seest thou how Ahab humbleth himself before me? because he humbleth himself before me, I will
not bring the evil in his days: [but] in his (l) son's days will I bring the evil upon his house.



(l) Meaning, in Joram's time, (<bcv=II Ki 9:26>Kg2 9:26</bcv>).

<page=768>3 Kings (1 Kings) Chapter 22


#BCV:1Kings 22:1
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:1>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:1</verse></h3>

And they continued (a) three years without war between Syria and Israel.



(a) Ben-hadad the king of Syria, and Ahab made a peace which endured three years.
#BCV:1Kings 22:2
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:2>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:2</verse></h3>

And it came to pass in the third year, that Jehoshaphat the king of Judah (b) came down to the king
of Israel.



(b) To see and visit him.
#BCV:1Kings 22:3
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:3>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:3</verse></h3>

And the king of Israel said unto his servants, Know ye that (c) Ramoth in Gilead [is] ours, and we
[be] still, [and] take it not out of the hand of the king of Syria?



(c) The kings of Syria kept Ramoth before this league was made by Benhadad: therefore he did not
think he was bound by it to restore it.
#BCV:1Kings 22:4
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:4>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:4</verse></h3>

And he said unto Jehoshaphat, Wilt thou go with me to battle to Ramothgilead? And Jehoshaphat
said to the king of Israel, (d) I [am] as thou [art], my people as thy people, my horses as thy horses.



(d) I am ready to join and go with you , and all of mine is at your command.
#BCV:1Kings 22:5
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:5>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:5</verse></h3>

And Jehoshaphat said unto the king of Israel, (e) Enquire, I pray thee, at the word of the LORD to
day.



(e) He seemed that he would not go to war unless God approved it, yet when Michaiah advised the
opposite he would not obey.
#BCV:1Kings 22:6
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:6>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:6</verse></h3>

Then the king of Israel gathered the (f) prophets together, about four hundred men, and said unto
them, Shall I go against Ramothgilead to battle, or shall I forbear? And they said, Go up; for the
Lord shall deliver [it] into the hand of the king.

<page=769>(f) Meaning the false prophets, who were liars and served for money whom Jezebel had assembled
and kept after the death of those whom Elijah slew.
#BCV:1Kings 22:7
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:7>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:7</verse></h3>

And Jehoshaphat said, [Is there] not here a prophet of the (g) LORD besides, that we might enquire
of him?



(g) Jehoshaphat did not acknowledge the false prophets to be God's ministers, but contemned them.
#BCV:1Kings 22:8
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:8>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:8</verse></h3>

And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, [There is] yet one man, Micaiah the son of Imlah, by
whom we may enquire of the LORD: but (h) I hate him; for he doth not prophesy good concerning
me, but evil. And Jehoshaphat said, Let not the king say so.



(h) By which we see that the wicked cannot abide to hear the truth, but hate the prophets of God
and molest them.
#BCV:1Kings 22:9
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:9>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:9</verse></h3>

Then the king of Israel called an (i) officer, and said, Hasten [hither] Micaiah the son of Imlah.



(i) Read (<bcv=Gen 37:36>Gen 37:36</bcv>).
#BCV:1Kings 22:10
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:10>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:10</verse></h3>

And the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat the king of Judah sat each on his throne, having put on their



(k) robes, in a void place in the entrance of the gate of Samaria; and all the prophets prophesied
before them.



(k) In their kingly apparel.
#BCV:1Kings 22:11
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:11>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:11</verse></h3>

And Zedekiah the son of Chenaanah made him (i) horns of iron: and he said, Thus saith the LORD,
With these shalt thou push the Syrians, until thou have consumed them.



(i) The true prophets of God were accustomed to use signs for the confirmation of their doctrine,



(<bcv=Isa 20:2>Isa 20:2</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 7:2> Jer 7:2</bcv>) in which the false prophets imitated them, thinking by it to make their doctrine
more believable.
#BCV:1Kings 22:13
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:13>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:13</verse></h3>

<page=770>And the messenger that was gone to call Micaiah spake unto him, saying, Behold now, the words of
the prophets [declare] good unto the king with (m) one mouth: let thy word, I pray thee, be like the
word of one of them, and speak [that which is] good.



(m) This is the common argument of the wicked, who think that no one should speak against
anything if the majority approves of it, be they ever so ungodly.
#BCV:1Kings 22:15
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:15>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:15</verse></h3>

So he came to the king. And the king said unto him, Micaiah, shall we go against Ramothgilead to
battle, or shall we forbear? And he answered him, (n) Go, and prosper: for the LORD shall deliver
[it] into the hand of the king.



(n) He speaks this in derision, because the king attributed so much to the false prophets, meaning
that by experience he should discern that they were liars.
#BCV:1Kings 22:17
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:17>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:17</verse></h3>

And he said, I saw all Israel scattered upon the hills, as sheep that have not a shepherd: and the
LORD said, (o) These have no master: let them return every man to his house in peace.



(o) It is better for them to return home than to be punished and scattered because they go to war
without God's counsel and approval.
#BCV:1Kings 22:19
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:19>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:19</verse></h3>

And he said, Hear thou therefore the word of the LORD: I saw the LORD sitting on his throne,
and all the (p) host of heaven standing by him on his right hand and on his left.



(p) Meaning, his angels.
#BCV:1Kings 22:21
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:21>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:21</verse></h3>

And there came forth a spirit, and (q) stood before the LORD, and said, I will persuade him.



(q) Here we see that though the devil is always ready to bring us to destruction, yet he has no more
power than God gives him.
#BCV:1Kings 22:22
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:22>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:22</verse></h3>

And the LORD said unto him, Wherewith? And he said, I will go forth, and I will be a (r) lying spirit
in the mouth of all his prophets. And he said, Thou shalt persuade [him], and prevail also: go forth,
and do so.

<page=771>(r) I will cause all his prophets to tell lies.


#BCV:1Kings 22:24
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:24>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:24</verse></h3>

But Zedekiah the son of Chenaanah went near, and smote Micaiah on the cheek, and said, (s) Which
way went the Spirit of the LORD from me to speak unto thee?



(s) Thus the wicked would that none were in the favour of God but they, and that God has given his
graces to none so much as to them.
#BCV:1Kings 22:27
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:27>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:27</verse></h3>

And say, Thus saith the king, Put this [fellow] in the prison, and feed him with (t) bread of affliction
and with water of affliction, until I come in peace.



(t) Let him waste away with hunger and be fed with a small portion of bread and water.
#BCV:1Kings 22:28
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:28>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:28</verse></h3>

And Micaiah said, If thou return at all in peace, the LORD hath not spoken by me. And he said, (v)
Hearken, O people, every one of you.



(v) That when you see these things come to pass you may give God the glory, and know that I am
his true prophet.
#BCV:1Kings 22:32
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:32>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:32</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, when the captains of the chariots saw Jehoshaphat, that they said, Surely it [is]
the king of Israel. And they turned aside to fight against him: and Jehoshaphat (x) cried out.



(x) That is, to the Lord for help.
#BCV:1Kings 22:35
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:35>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:35</verse></h3>

And the battle increased that day: and the (y) king was stayed up in his chariot against the Syrians,
and died at even: and the blood ran out of the wound into the midst of the chariot.



(y) That is, Ahab, king of Israel.
#BCV:1Kings 22:36
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:36>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:36</verse></h3>

And there went a proclamation throughout the (z) host about the going down of the sun, saying,
Every man to his city, and every man to his own country.

<page=772>(z) Of the Israelites.


#BCV:1Kings 22:43
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:43>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:43</verse></h3>

And he walked in all the ways of Asa his father; he turned not aside from it, doing [that which was]
right in the eyes of the LORD: nevertheless (a) the high places were not taken away; [for] the people
offered and burnt incense yet in the high places.



(a) Meaning, that he was led with an error, thinking that they might still sacrifice to the Lord in those
places, as they did before the temple was built.
#BCV:1Kings 22:47
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:47>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:47</verse></h3>

[There was] then no king in Edom: a (b) deputy [was] king.



(b) In the time of this king, Idumea was subject to Judah, and was governed by whom they of Judah
appointed.
#BCV:1Kings 22:48
<h3><verse=1 Kings 22:48>3 Kings (1 Kings) 22:48</verse></h3>

Jehoshaphat made ships of (c) Tharshish to go to (d) Ophir for gold: but they went not; for the
ships were broken at Eziongeber.



(c) By Tharshish the scripture means Cilicia and all the Mediterranean Sea.

(d) Josephus writes that Ophir is in India, where the Egyptians and Arabians traffic for gold.

<page=773><h1>4 Kings (2 Kings)</h1>

<h2>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 1</h2>
#BCV:2 Kings 1:1
<h3><verse=2 Kings 1:1>4 Kings (2 Kings) 1:1</verse></h3>

Then Moab rebelled against Israel after the death of Ahab.

The Argument - This second book contains the acts of the kings of Judah and Israel: that is, of
Israel, from the death of Ahab to the last king Hoshea, who was imprisoned by the king of Assyria,
and his city Samaria taken, and the ten tribes led into captivity by the just plague of God for their
idolatry and disobedience to God. Also of Judah, from the reign of Jehoram son of Jehoshaphat to
Zedekiah, who for contemning the Lord's commandment by his prophets, and neglecting his many
admonitions by famine and other means was taken by his enemies, saw his sons most cruelly slain
before his face, and his own eyes put out, as the Lord had declared to him before by his prophet
Jeremiah. By the just vengeance of God for contempt of his word Jerusalem was destroyed, the
temple burnt, and he and all his people were led away captives into Babylon. In this book are notable
examples of God's favour toward those rulers and people who obey his prophets, and embrace his
word: and contrariwise of his plagues on those who neglect his ministers, and do not obey his
commandments.
#BCV:2 Kings 1:2
<h3><verse=2 Kings 1:2>4 Kings (2 Kings) 1:2</verse></h3>

And (a) Ahaziah fell down through a lattice in his upper chamber that [was] in Samaria, and was sick:
and he sent messengers, and said unto them, Go, enquire of (b) Baalzebub the god of Ekron
whether I shall recover of this disease.



(a) So that he was punished for his idolatry in two ways: for the Moabites which were wont to pay
him tribute rebelled and he fell out a window which was high in his house to give light beneath.



(b) The Philistines who lived at Ekron worshipped this idol, the god of flies, thinking that he could
preserve them from the biting of flies: or else he was so called, because flies were drawn in great
abundance by the blood of the sacrifices that were offered to that idol.
#BCV:2 Kings 1:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 1:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 1:3</verse></h3>

But the angel of the LORD said to Elijah the Tishbite, Arise, go up to meet the messengers of the
king of Samaria, and say unto them, (c) [Is it] not because [there is] not a God in Israel, [that] ye go
to enquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron?



(c) He shows that idolaters do not have the true God, or else they would seek none but him alone.
#BCV:2 Kings 1:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 1:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 1:6</verse></h3>


<page=774>And they said unto him, There came a man up to meet us, and said unto us, Go, turn again unto the
king that sent you, and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD, (d) [Is it] not because [there is] not a
God in Israel, [that] thou sendest to enquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron? therefore thou shalt
not come down from that bed on which thou art gone up, but shalt surely die.



(d) Ignorance is the mother of error and idolatry.
#BCV:2 Kings 1:8
<h3><verse=2 Kings 1:8>4 Kings (2 Kings) 1:8</verse></h3>

And they answered him, [He was] an (e) hairy man, and girt with a girdle of leather about his loins.
And he said, It [is] Elijah the Tishbite.



(e) Some think that this meant his garments, which were rough and made of hair.
#BCV:2 Kings 1:9
<h3><verse=2 Kings 1:9>4 Kings (2 Kings) 1:9</verse></h3>

Then the king sent unto him a captain of fifty with his fifty. And he went up to him: and, behold, he
sat on the top (f) of an hill. And he spake unto him, Thou man of God, the king hath said, Come
down.



(f) That is, Carmel.
#BCV:2 Kings 1:10
<h3><verse=2 Kings 1:10>4 Kings (2 Kings) 1:10</verse></h3>

And Elijah answered and said to the captain of fifty, If I [be] a man of God, then let fire come
down from heaven, and consume thee and thy fifty. (g) And there came down fire from heaven, and
consumed him and his fifty.



(g) He declares the power God's word has in the mouth of his servants, when they threaten God's
judgments against the wicked.
#BCV:2 Kings 1:11
<h3><verse=2 Kings 1:11>4 Kings (2 Kings) 1:11</verse></h3>

Again also he sent unto him another captain of fifty with his fifty. And he answered and said unto
him, (h) O man of God, thus hath the king said, Come down quickly.



(h) He spoke this in mockery, and therefore provoked God's wrath so much more.
#BCV:2 Kings 1:12
<h3><verse=2 Kings 1:12>4 Kings (2 Kings) 1:12</verse></h3>

<page=775>And Elijah answered and said unto them, (i) If I [be] a man of God, let fire come down from
heaven, and consume thee and thy fifty. And the fire of God came down from heaven, and
consumed him and his fifty.



(i) Meaning, that God would show by effect whether he was a true prophet or not.
#BCV:2 Kings 1:13
<h3><verse=2 Kings 1:13>4 Kings (2 Kings) 1:13</verse></h3>

And he sent again a captain of the third fifty with his fifty. And the third captain of fifty went up,
and came and fell on his knees before Elijah, and besought him, and said unto him, O man of God,
I pray thee, let my (k) life, and the life of these fifty thy servants, be (l) precious in thy sight.



(k) Which humble myself before God and his servant.



(l) That is, spare my life, and do not let me die as the other two.
#BCV:2 Kings 1:15
<h3><verse=2 Kings 1:15>4 Kings (2 Kings) 1:15</verse></h3>

And the angel of the LORD said unto Elijah, Go down with him: be (m) not afraid of him. And he
arose, and went down with him unto the king.



(m) Thus the Lord gives boldness to his, that they fear not the threatenings of tyrants, who
otherwise of themselves are afraid to do God's message.
#BCV:2 Kings 1:17
<h3><verse=2 Kings 1:17>4 Kings (2 Kings) 1:17</verse></h3>

So he died according to the word of the LORD which Elijah had spoken. And (n) Jehoram reigned
in his stead in the second year of Jehoram the son of Jehoshaphat king of Judah; because he had no

<h1>son.</h1>




(n) Jehoshaphat going to battle against the Syrians, made his son Jehoram king in the 17th year of
his reign: and in the 18th year which was the second year of his son, Jehoram the son of Ahab
reigned in Israel: and in the fifth year of this Jehoram Jehoshaphat died, and the kingdom of Judah
was confirmed to his son.

<page=776>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 2


#BCV:2 Kings 2:1
<h3><verse=2 Kings 2:1>4 Kings (2 Kings) 2:1</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, when the LORD would take up Elijah into heaven by a whirlwind, that Elijah
went with Elisha from (a) Gilgal.



(a) Which was the place where the children of Israel were circumcised after they came over Jordan
and had been forty years in the wilderness, (<bcv=Jos 5:9>Jos 5:9</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 2:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 2:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 2:3</verse></h3>

And the (b) sons of the prophets that [were] at Bethel came forth to Elisha, and said unto him,
Knowest thou that the LORD will take away thy master from (c) thy head to day? And he said, Yea,
I (d) know [it]; hold ye your peace.



(b) So called, because they are begotten anew as it were by the heavenly doctrine.



(c) That is, from being your head any more: for to be as the head, is to be the master, as to be at the
feet, is to be a scholar.



(d) For the Lord had revealed it to him.
#BCV:2 Kings 2:5
<h3><verse=2 Kings 2:5>4 Kings (2 Kings) 2:5</verse></h3>

And the sons of the prophets that [were] at (e) Jericho came to Elisha, and said unto him, Knowest
thou that the LORD will take away thy master from thy head to day? And he answered, Yea, I know
[it]; hold ye your peace.



(e) Not only at Bethel, but at Jericho and other places were there prophets, who had scholars, whom
they instructed and brought up in the true fear of God.
#BCV:2 Kings 2:8
<h3><verse=2 Kings 2:8>4 Kings (2 Kings) 2:8</verse></h3>

And Elijah took his mantle, and wrapped [it] together, and smote the (f) waters, and they were
divided hither and thither, so that they two went over on dry ground.



(f) That is, of Jordan.
#BCV:2 Kings 2:9
<h3><verse=2 Kings 2:9>4 Kings (2 Kings) 2:9</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for
thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, (g) let a double portion of thy
spirit be upon me.

<page=777>(g) Let your spirit have double force in me, because of these dangerous times: or let me have twice
as much as the rest of the prophets: or if your spirit were to be divided into three parts, let me have
two.
#BCV:2 Kings 2:11
<h3><verse=2 Kings 2:11>4 Kings (2 Kings) 2:11</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, [there appeared] a chariot of fire,
and horses of fire, and parted them both asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into (h) heaven.



(h) Thus God has left a testimony in all ages (both before the law, in the law and in the gospel).
#BCV:2 Kings 2:15
<h3><verse=2 Kings 2:15>4 Kings (2 Kings) 2:15</verse></h3>

And when the sons of the prophets which [were] to view at Jericho saw him, they said, The (i) spirit
of Elijah doth rest on Elisha. And they came to meet him, and bowed themselves to the ground
before him.



(i) The Spirit of prophecy was given to him as it was to Elijah.
#BCV:2 Kings 2:16
<h3><verse=2 Kings 2:16>4 Kings (2 Kings) 2:16</verse></h3>

And they said unto him, Behold now, there be with thy servants fifty strong men; let them go, we
pray thee, and seek thy master: lest peradventure the Spirit of the LORD hath taken him up, and
cast him upon some mountain, or into some valley. And he said, (l) Ye shall not send.



(l) Because the fact was extraordinary, they doubted where he had gone, but Elisha was assured that
he was taken up to God.
#BCV:2 Kings 2:21
<h3><verse=2 Kings 2:21>4 Kings (2 Kings) 2:21</verse></h3>

And he went forth unto the spring of the waters, and cast (m) the salt in there, and said, Thus saith
the LORD, I have healed these waters; there shall not be from thence any more death or barren
[land].



(m) Thus God gave him power, even contrary to nature, to make the water profitable for man's use,
which before was hurtful.
#BCV:2 Kings 2:24
<h3><verse=2 Kings 2:24>4 Kings (2 Kings) 2:24</verse></h3>

And he turned back, and looked on them, and (n) cursed them in the name of the LORD. And there
came forth two she bears out of the wood, and tare forty and two children of them.



(n) Perceiving their malicious heart against the Lord and his word, he asks God to avenge the injury
done to him.

<page=778>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 3


#BCV:2 Kings 3:1
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:1>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:1</verse></h3>

Now Jehoram the son of Ahab began to reign over Israel in Samaria the (a) eighteenth year of
Jehoshaphat king of Judah, and reigned twelve years.



(a) Read the annotation in (<bcv=II Ki 1:17>Kg2 1:17</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 3:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:3</verse></h3>

Nevertheless he cleaved unto the (b) sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, which made Israel to sin;
he departed not therefrom.



(b) He sacrificed to the golden calves that Jeroboam had made.
#BCV:2 Kings 3:4
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:4>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:4</verse></h3>

And (c) Mesha king of Moab was a sheepmaster, and rendered unto the king of Israel an hundred
thousand lambs, and an hundred thousand rams, with the wool.



(c) This was done after David had made the Moabites tributaries to his successors.
#BCV:2 Kings 3:7
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:7>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:7</verse></h3>

And he went and sent to Jehoshaphat the king of Judah, saying, The king of Moab hath rebelled
against me: wilt thou go with me against Moab to battle? And he said, I will go up: (d) I [am] as thou
[art], my people as thy people, [and] my horses as thy horses.



(d) Read (<bcv=I Ki 22:4>Kg1 22:4</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 3:9
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:9>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:9</verse></h3>

So the king of Israel went, and the king of Judah, and the (e) king of Edom: and they fetched a
compass of seven days' journey: and there was no water for the host, and for the cattle that followed
them.



(e) Meaning the viceroy, or lieutenant of the king of Judah, (<bcv=I Ki 22:47>Kg1 22:47</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 3:11
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:11>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:11</verse></h3>

But Jehoshaphat said, [Is there] not here a prophet of the LORD, that we may enquire of the
LORD by him? And one of the king of Israel's servants answered and said, Here [is] Elisha the son
of Shaphat, which (f) poured water on the hands of Elijah.

<page=779>(f) That is, who was his servant.


#BCV:2 Kings 3:12
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:12>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:12</verse></h3>

And Jehoshaphat said, (g) The word of the LORD is with him. So the king of Israel and
Jehoshaphat and the king of Edom went down to him.



(g) He is able to instruct us what God's will is in this point.
#BCV:2 Kings 3:13
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:13>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:13</verse></h3>

And Elisha said unto the king of Israel, (h) What have I to do with thee? get thee to the prophets of
thy father, and to the prophets of thy mother. And the king of Israel said unto him, (i) Nay: for the
LORD hath called these three kings together, to deliver them into the hand of Moab.



(h) He knew that this wicked king would have but used his counsel to serve his turn, and therefore,
he disdained to answer him.



(i) The wicked do not esteem the servants of God unless they are driven by every necessity and fear
of the present danger.
#BCV:2 Kings 3:14
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:14>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:14</verse></h3>

And Elisha said, [As] the LORD of hosts liveth, before whom I stand, surely, were it not that I
regard the presence of Jehoshaphat the king of Judah, I would (k) not look toward thee, nor see
thee.



(k) God suffers his word to be declared to the wicked because of the godly that are among them.
#BCV:2 Kings 3:15
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:15>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:15</verse></h3>

But now bring me a minstrel. And it came to pass, when the minstrel (l) played, that the hand of the
LORD came upon him.



(l) He sang songs to God's glory, and so stirred up the prophets heart to prophecy.
#BCV:2 Kings 3:18
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:18>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:18</verse></h3>

And this is [but] a (m) light thing in the sight of the LORD: he will deliver the Moabites also into
your hand.



(m) He will not only miraculously give you waters, but your enemies also into your hand.
#BCV:2 Kings 3:19
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:19>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:19</verse></h3>


<page=780>And ye shall smite every fenced city, and every choice city, and shall fell every good tree, and stop all
wells of water, and (n) mar every good piece of land with stones.



(n) Though God bestows his benefits for a time on the enemies, yet he has his seasons, when he will
take them away to the intent they might see his vengeance which is prepared for them.
#BCV:2 Kings 3:23
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:23>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:23</verse></h3>

And they said, (o) This [is] blood: the kings are surely slain, and they have smitten one another: now
therefore, Moab, to the spoil.



(o) The sudden joy of the wicked is but a preparation for their destruction, which is at hand.
#BCV:2 Kings 3:24
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:24>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:24</verse></h3>

And when they came to the camp of Israel, the Israelites rose up and smote the Moabites, so that
they fled before them: but they (p) went forward smiting the Moabites, even in [their] country.



(p) Meaning, they followed them into the towns.
#BCV:2 Kings 3:25
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:25>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:25</verse></h3>

And they beat down the cities, and on every good piece of land cast every man his stone, and filled
it; and they stopped all the wells of water, and felled all the good trees: only in (q) Kirharaseth left
they the stones thereof; howbeit the slingers went about [it], and smote it.



(q) Which was one of the principle cities of the Moabites, in which they left nothing but the walls.
#BCV:2 Kings 3:27
<h3><verse=2 Kings 3:27>4 Kings (2 Kings) 3:27</verse></h3>

Then he took his eldest son that should have reigned in his stead, and (r) offered him [for] a burnt
offering upon the wall. And there was great indignation against Israel: and they departed from him,
and returned to [their own] land.



(r) Some refer it to the king of Edom's son, whom they say he had taken in that skirmish: but rather
it seemed to be his own son, whom he offered to his gods to pacify them: which barbarous cruelty
moved the Israelites hearts of pity to depart.

<page=781>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 4

#BCV:2 Kings 4:1
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:1>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:1</verse></h3>




(a) Now there cried a certain woman of the wives of the sons of the prophets unto Elisha, saying,
Thy servant my husband is dead; and thou knowest that thy servant did (b) fear the LORD: and the
creditor is come to take unto him my two sons to be (c) bondmen.



(a) (<bcv=II Ki 2:3>Kg2 2:3</bcv>).



(b) And therefore did not fall into debt by carelessness or excess but by the hand of the Lord.



(c) Because I am poor and not able to pay.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:2
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:2>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:2</verse></h3>

And Elisha said unto her, What shall I do for thee? tell me, what hast thou in the house? And she
said, Thine handmaid hath not any thing in the house, save a (d) pot of oil.



(d) Thus God permits his to be brought many times to extreme necessity, before he helps them, that
afterward they may praise his mercy even more.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:4
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:4>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:4</verse></h3>

And when thou art come in, thou shalt shut the door upon thee and upon thy sons, and shalt pour
out into (e) all those vessels, and thou shalt set aside that which is full.



(e) The Prophet declares by this to her, that God never fails to provide for his servants, their wives
and children, it they trust in him.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:6</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, when the vessels were full, that she said unto her son, Bring me yet a vessel.
And he said unto her, [There is] not a vessel more. And the oil (f) stayed.



(f) Or ceased to increase.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:7
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:7>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:7</verse></h3>

Then she came and told the man of God. And he said, Go, sell the oil, and pay thy debt, and live
thou and thy children of the (g) rest.



(g) God here not only provided for his servant, that his debts should be paid and so kept his
doctrine and profession without slander, but also for his wife and children.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:10
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:10>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:10</verse></h3>

<page=782>Let us make a (h) little chamber, I pray thee, on the wall; and let us set for him there a bed, and a
table, and a stool, and a candlestick: and it shall be, when he cometh to us, that he shall turn in
thither.



(h) Which would be separate from the rest of the house, that he might more conveniently give
himself to study and prayers.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:13
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:13>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:13</verse></h3>

And he said unto him, Say now unto her, Behold, thou hast been careful for us with all this care; (i)
what [is] to be done for thee? wouldest thou be spoken for to the king, or to the captain of the host?
And she answered, I (k) dwell among mine own people.



(i) Thus the servants of God are not unthankful for the benefits they receive.



(k) I am content with what God has sent me, and can lack nothing that one can do for another.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:14
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:14>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:14</verse></h3>

And he said, What then [is] to be done for her? And Gehazi answered, Verily she hath (l) no child,
and her husband is old.



(l) Which was shameful and therefore he would that his master should pray to God for her that she
might be fruitful.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:19
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:19>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:19</verse></h3>

And he said unto his father, (m) My head, my head. And he said to a lad, Carry him to his mother.



(m) His head was hurt badly and therefore he cried.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:23
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:23>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:23</verse></h3>

And he said, Wherefore wilt thou go to him to day? [it is] neither (n) new moon, nor sabbath. And
she said, [It shall be] well.



(n) For at such times the people were wont to resort to the prophets for doctrine and consolation.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:27
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:27>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:27</verse></h3>

<page=783>And when she came to the man of God to the hill, she (o) caught him by the feet: but Gehazi came
near to thrust her away. And the man of God said, Let her alone; for her soul [is] vexed within her:
and the LORD hath hid [it] from me, and hath not told me.



(o) In token of humility and joy that she had met with him.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:29
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:29>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:29</verse></h3>

Then he said to Gehazi, Gird up thy loins, and take my staff in thine hand, and go thy way: (p) if
thou meet any man, salute him not; and if any salute thee, answer him not again: and lay my staff
upon the face of the child.



(p) Make such speed that nothing may stop you in the way, (<bcv=Luk 10:4>Luk 10:4</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 4:34
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:34>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:34</verse></h3>

And he went up, and (q) lay upon the child, and put his mouth upon his mouth, and his eyes upon
his eyes, and his hands upon his hands: and he stretched himself upon the child; and the flesh of the
child waxed warm.



(q) Elijah did the same to the widow's son at Zarephath (<bcv=I Ki 17:21>Kg1 17:21</bcv>) and Paul in (<bcv=Acts 20:10>Act 20:10</bcv>) signifying
the care that should be in them, who bear the word of God and are distributors of spiritual life.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:35
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:35>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:35</verse></h3>

Then he returned, and walked in the house to and fro; and went up, and stretched himself upon him:
and the child sneezed (r) seven times, and the child opened his eyes.



(r) Meaning, often.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:38
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:38>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:38</verse></h3>

And Elisha came again to Gilgal: and [there was] a dearth in the (s) land; and the sons of the
prophets [were] sitting before him: and he said unto his servant, Set on the great pot, and seethe
pottage for the sons of the prophets.



(s) That is, in the land of Israel.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:39
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:39>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:39</verse></h3>

And one went out into the field to gather herbs, and found a (t) wild vine, and gathered thereof wild
gourds his lap full, and came and shred [them] into the pot of pottage: for they knew [them] not.



(t) Which the apothecaries call colloquintida, and is most vehement and dangerous in purging.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:40
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:40>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:40</verse></h3>

<page=784>So they poured out for the men to eat. And it came to pass, as they were eating of the pottage, that
they cried out, and said, O [thou] man of God, [there is] (u) death in the pot. And they could not eat
[thereof].



(u) They feared that they were poisoned because of the bitterness.
#BCV:2 Kings 4:43
<h3><verse=2 Kings 4:43>4 Kings (2 Kings) 4:43</verse></h3>

And his servitor said, What, should I set this before an hundred men? He said again, Give the
people, that they may eat: for thus saith the LORD, They shall eat, and (x) shall leave [thereof].



(x) It is not the quantity of bread that satisfies, but the blessing that God gives.

<page=785>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 5


#BCV:2 Kings 5:1
<h3><verse=2 Kings 5:1>4 Kings (2 Kings) 5:1</verse></h3>

Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master, and
honourable, because by him the LORD had given (a) deliverance unto Syria: he was also a mighty
man in valour, [but he was] a leper.



(a) Here it appears that among the infidels God has his, and also that the infidels esteem those who
do good to their country.
#BCV:2 Kings 5:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 5:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 5:3</verse></h3>

And she said unto her mistress, Would God my lord [were] with the (b) prophet that [is] in Samaria!
for he would recover him of his leprosy.



(b) Meaning Elisha.
#BCV:2 Kings 5:4
<h3><verse=2 Kings 5:4>4 Kings (2 Kings) 5:4</verse></h3>

And (c) [one] went in, and told his lord, saying, Thus and thus said the maid that [is] of the land of
Israel.



(c) That is, Naaman told it to the king of Syria.
#BCV:2 Kings 5:5
<h3><verse=2 Kings 5:5>4 Kings (2 Kings) 5:5</verse></h3>

And the king of Syria said, Go to, go, and I will send a letter unto the king of Israel. And he
departed, and (d) took with him ten talents of silver, and six thousand [pieces] of gold, and ten
changes of raiment.



(d) To give this as a present to the prophets.
#BCV:2 Kings 5:8
<h3><verse=2 Kings 5:8>4 Kings (2 Kings) 5:8</verse></h3>

And it was [so], when Elisha the man of God had heard that the king of Israel had rent his clothes,
that he sent to the king, saying, (e) Wherefore hast thou rent thy clothes? let him come now to me,
and he shall know that there is a prophet in Israel.



(e) The prophet rebukes the king because he did not consider that God was true in his promise, and
therefore would not leave his Church destitute of a prophet, whose prayers he would hear, and to
whom others could have recourse for comfort.
#BCV:2 Kings 5:11
<h3><verse=2 Kings 5:11>4 Kings (2 Kings) 5:11</verse></h3>


<page=786>But Naaman was (f) wroth, and went away, and said, Behold, I thought, He will surely come out to
me, and stand, and call on the name of the LORD his God, and strike his hand over the place, and
recover the leper.



(f) Man's reason murmurs when it considers only the signs and outward things, and has no regard
for the word of God, which is contained there.
#BCV:2 Kings 5:13
<h3><verse=2 Kings 5:13>4 Kings (2 Kings) 5:13</verse></h3>

And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, (g) My father, [if] the prophet had bid
thee [do some] great thing, wouldest thou not have done [it]? how much rather then, when he saith
to thee, Wash, and be clean?



(g) This declares that servants should reverence and love their masters as children their fathers, and
likewise masters toward their servants, must be affectioned as toward their children.
#BCV:2 Kings 5:16
<h3><verse=2 Kings 5:16>4 Kings (2 Kings) 5:16</verse></h3>

But he said, [As] the LORD liveth, before whom I stand, I will receive none. And he urged him to
take [it]; (h) but he refused.



(h) So the Lord commands that they that receive freely, should also give freely.
#BCV:2 Kings 5:18
<h3><verse=2 Kings 5:18>4 Kings (2 Kings) 5:18</verse></h3>

In this thing the LORD (i) pardon thy servant, [that] when my master goeth into the house of
Rimmon to worship there, and he leaneth on my hand, and I bow myself in the house of Rimmon:
when I bow down myself in the house of Rimmon, the LORD pardon thy servant in this thing.



(i) He feels his conscience is wounded by being present at idols service, and therefore desires God to
forgive him, lest others by his example might fall to idolatry: for as for his own part he confesses
that he will never serve any but the true God.
#BCV:2 Kings 5:19
<h3><verse=2 Kings 5:19>4 Kings (2 Kings) 5:19</verse></h3>

And he said unto him, (k) Go in peace. So he departed from him a little way.



(k) The prophet did not approve his act, but after the common manner of speech he bids him
farewell.
#BCV:2 Kings 5:21
<h3><verse=2 Kings 5:21>4 Kings (2 Kings) 5:21</verse></h3>

<page=787>So Gehazi followed after Naaman. And when Naaman saw [him] running after him, (l) he lighted
down from the chariot to meet him, and said, [Is] all well?



(l) Declaring by it, the honour and affection he bore to the prophet his master.
#BCV:2 Kings 5:24
<h3><verse=2 Kings 5:24>4 Kings (2 Kings) 5:24</verse></h3>

And when he came to the tower, he took [them] from their hand, and bestowed [them] in the house:
and he let the men go, and (m) they departed.



(m) Naaman's servants.
#BCV:2 Kings 5:26
<h3><verse=2 Kings 5:26>4 Kings (2 Kings) 5:26</verse></h3>

And he said unto him, (n) Went not mine heart [with thee], when the man turned again from his
chariot to meet thee? [Is it] a time to receive money, and to receive garments, and (o) oliveyards, and
vineyards, and sheep, and oxen, and menservants, and maidservants?



(n) Was I not present with you in spirit?



(o) That is, money to buy possessions with: meaning that it is detestable in the servants of God to
have covetous minds.
#BCV:2 Kings 5:27
<h3><verse=2 Kings 5:27>4 Kings (2 Kings) 5:27</verse></h3>

The leprosy therefore of Naaman shall cleave unto thee, and unto thy (p) seed for ever. And he went
out from his presence a leper [as white] as snow.

(p) To be an example to all, by whose covetousness God's word might be slandered.

<page=788>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 6


#BCV:2 Kings 6:2
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:2>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:2</verse></h3>

Let us go, we pray thee, unto Jordan, and take thence every man a (a) beam, and let us make us a
place there, where we may dwell. And he answered, Go ye.



(a) Or a piece of wood fit to build with.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:6</verse></h3>

And the man of God said, Where fell it? And he shewed him the place. And he cut down a stick,
and cast [it] in thither; and the iron did (b) swim.



(b) God wrought this miraculously to confirm the authority of Elisha, to whom he had given such
abundance of his Spirit.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:8
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:8>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:8</verse></h3>

Then the king of Syria warred against Israel, and took counsel with his servants, saying, In (c) such
and such a place [shall be] my camp.



(c) Meaning, that he would lie in ambush and take the Israelites unawares.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:10
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:10>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:10</verse></h3>

And the king of Israel sent to the place which the man of God told him and warned him of, and (d)
saved himself there, not once nor twice.



(d) The wicked conspire nothing so craftily, but God can reveal it to his servants, and cause their
counsel to be disclosed.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:12
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:12>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:12</verse></h3>

And one of his servants said, None, my lord, O king: but Elisha, the prophet that [is] in Israel,
telleth the king of Israel the words that thou speakest in thy (e) bedchamber.



(e) There is nothing so secret that you can go about, but he knows it, and reveals it to his king.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:14
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:14>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:14</verse></h3>

Therefore sent he thither horses, and chariots, and a (f) great host: and they came by night, and
compassed the city about.

<page=789>(f) Though it was nothing in man's judgment to have taken Elisha, yet the wicked doubt, and think
they are never able to prepare enough power, though it be but against one or a few.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:16
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:16>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:16</verse></h3>

And he answered, (g) Fear not: for they that [be] with us [are] more than they that [be] with them.



(g) For he was assured of God's help, and that millions of angels camped about the godly to deliver
them.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:17
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:17>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:17</verse></h3>

And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, (h) that he may see. And the LORD
opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain [was] full of horses and
chariots of fire round about Elisha.



(h) That he may behold how you have prepared an army to rescue us.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:18
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:18>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:18</verse></h3>

And when (i) they came down to him, Elisha prayed unto the LORD, and said, Smite this people, I
pray thee, with blindness. And he smote them with blindness according to the word of Elisha.



(i) Meaning the Syrians his enemies, who came down thinking themselves sure of him.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:19
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:19>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:19</verse></h3>

And Elisha said unto them, This [is] not the way, neither [is] this the city: follow me, and I will bring
you to the man whom ye seek. But he led (k) them to Samaria.



(k) Thus he did being led by the Spirit of God, and not because he sought his own revenge, but only
to set forth the glory of God.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:21
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:21>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:21</verse></h3>

And the king of Israel said unto Elisha, when he saw them, (l) My father, shall I smite [them]? shall I
smite [them]?



(l) The wicked use reverent and grave words toward the servants of God, when they think to have
any blessing from them, though in their heart they cannot abide them.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:23
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:23>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:23</verse></h3>

<page=790>And he prepared great provision for them: and when they had eaten and drunk, he sent them away,
and they went to their master. So the bands of Syria came no (m) more into the land of Israel.



(m) For this gentle intreaty and the miracle wrought by the prophet, did more for peace than if they
had been overcome in battle for they did not return at that time to fight against Israel, or in that
king's days.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:25
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:25>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:25</verse></h3>

And there was a great famine in Samaria: and, behold, they besieged it, until an ass's head was [sold]
for fourscore [pieces] of silver, and the fourth part of a cab of dove's (n) dung for five [pieces] of
silver.



(n) The Hebrews write, that they burned it in the seige for lack of wood.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:27
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:27>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:27</verse></h3>

And he said, If the LORD do not help thee, whence shall I help thee? out of the (o) barnfloor, or
out of the winepress?



(o) Meaning, any kind of food as corn and wine.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:30
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:30>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:30</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, when the king heard the words of the woman, that he rent his clothes; and he
passed by upon the wall, and the people looked, and, behold, [he had] sackcloth within (p) upon his
flesh.



(p) Thus hypocrites when they feel God's judgments think to please him with outward ceremonies
whom in prosperity they will not know.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:32
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:32>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:32</verse></h3>

But Elisha sat in his house, and the elders sat with him; and [the king] sent a man from before him:
but ere the messenger came to him, he said to the elders, See ye how this son of a (q) murderer hath
sent to take away mine head? look, when the messenger cometh, shut the door, and hold him fast at
the door: [is] not the sound of his master's feet behind him?



(q) Meaning, Jehoram Ahab's son, who killed the prophets and caused Naboth to be stoned.
#BCV:2 Kings 6:33
<h3><verse=2 Kings 6:33>4 Kings (2 Kings) 6:33</verse></h3>

And while he yet talked with them, behold, the messenger came down unto him: and he said, Behold,
this evil [is] of the LORD; what (r) should I wait for the LORD any longer?

<page=791>(r) So the wicked fall into a rage and desperation, if they do not find a quick remedy for their
afflictions.

<page=792>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 7


#BCV:2 Kings 7:1
<h3><verse=2 Kings 7:1>4 Kings (2 Kings) 7:1</verse></h3>

Then Elisha said, Hear ye the word of the LORD; Thus saith the LORD, (a) To morrow about this
time [shall] a measure of fine flour [be sold] for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, in
the gate of Samaria.



(a) The godly are always assured of God's help in their necessity, but the times and hours are only
revealed by God's Spirit.
#BCV:2 Kings 7:2
<h3><verse=2 Kings 7:2>4 Kings (2 Kings) 7:2</verse></h3>

Then a lord on whose hand the king (b) leaned answered the man of God, and said, Behold, [if] the
LORD would make (c) windows in heaven, might this thing be? And he said, Behold, thou shalt see
[it] with thine eyes, but shalt not (d) eat thereof.



(b) To whom the king gave the charge and oversight of things as in (<bcv=II Ki 7:17>Kg2 7:17</bcv>).



(c) He mocked at the prophets words saying, that if God rained down corn from heaven, yet this
could not come to pass.



(d) Your infidelity will be punished in this when you see this miracle, and yet not partake of it.
#BCV:2 Kings 7:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 7:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 7:3</verse></h3>

And there were four leprous men at the (e) entering in of the gate: and they said one to another,
Why sit we here until we die?



(e) For it was commanded in the law that they should dwell apart, and not among their brethren,



(<bcv=Lev 13:46>Lev 13:46</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 7:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 7:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 7:6</verse></h3>

For the Lord had made the host of the Syrians to hear a (f) noise of chariots, and a noise of horses,
[even] the noise of a great host: and they said one to another, Lo, the king of Israel hath hired
against us the kings of the Hittites, and the kings of the Egyptians, to come upon us.



(f) Thus God needs no great preparation to destroy the wicked. Though they are many he can
scatter them with a small noise, or shaking of a leaf.
#BCV:2 Kings 7:7
<h3><verse=2 Kings 7:7>4 Kings (2 Kings) 7:7</verse></h3>

<page=793>Wherefore they arose and fled in the twilight, and left their tents, and their horses, and their asses,
even the camp as it [was], and (g) fled for their life.



(g) The wicked need no greater enemy than their own conscience to pursue them.
#BCV:2 Kings 7:12
<h3><verse=2 Kings 7:12>4 Kings (2 Kings) 7:12</verse></h3>

And the king arose in the night, and said unto his servants, (h) I will now shew you what the Syrians
have done to us. They know that we [be] hungry; therefore are they gone out of the camp to hide
themselves in the field, saying, When they come out of the city, we shall catch them alive, and get
into the city.



(h) He mistrusted the prophets words, and therefore could believe nothing, as they who are more
prudent than godly always cast more doubt than is needed.
#BCV:2 Kings 7:13
<h3><verse=2 Kings 7:13>4 Kings (2 Kings) 7:13</verse></h3>

And one of his servants answered and said, Let [some] take, I pray thee, five of the horses that
remain, which are left in the city, (behold, they [are] as all the (i) multitude of Israel that are left in it:
behold, [I say], they [are] even as all the multitude of the Israelites that are consumed:) and let us
send and see.



(i) There are no more left, but they, or the rest are consumed by the famine, as the rest of the people.
#BCV:2 Kings 7:16
<h3><verse=2 Kings 7:16>4 Kings (2 Kings) 7:16</verse></h3>

And the people went out, and spoiled the tents of the Syrians. So a measure of fine flour was [sold]
for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, (k) according to the word of the LORD.



(k) Which he spoke by the mouth of Elisha, (<bcv=II Ki 7:1>Kg2 7:1</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 7:17
<h3><verse=2 Kings 7:17>4 Kings (2 Kings) 7:17</verse></h3>

And the king appointed the lord on whose hand he leaned to have the charge of the gate: and the
people (l) trode upon him in the gate, and he died, as the man of God had said, who spake when the
king came down to him.



(l) As the people pressed out of the gate to run to the Syrian's tents, where they had heard meat and
great spoil was left.

<page=794>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 8


#BCV:2 Kings 8:1
<h3><verse=2 Kings 8:1>4 Kings (2 Kings) 8:1</verse></h3>

Then spake Elisha unto the woman, whose son he had restored to life, saying, Arise, and go thou
and thine household, and sojourn wheresoever thou (a) canst sojourn: for the LORD hath called for
a famine; and it shall also come upon the land seven years.



(a) Where you can find a convenient place to dwell, where there is plenty.
#BCV:2 Kings 8:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 8:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 8:3</verse></h3>

And it came to pass at the seven years' end, that the woman returned out of the land of the
Philistines: and she went forth (b) to cry unto the king for her house and for her land.



(b) That is, to complain of them who had taken her possessions while she was absent.
#BCV:2 Kings 8:5
<h3><verse=2 Kings 8:5>4 Kings (2 Kings) 8:5</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, as he was telling (c) the king how he had restored a dead body to life, that,
behold, the woman, whose son he had restored to life, cried to the king for her house and for her
land. And Gehazi said, My lord, O king, this [is] the woman, and this [is] her son, whom Elisha
restored to life.



(c) God's wonderful providence appears in this, that he caused the king to desire to hear him, whom
before he contemned and also hereby prepared an entrance to the poor widows suit.
#BCV:2 Kings 8:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 8:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 8:6</verse></h3>

And when the king asked the woman, she told him. So the king appointed unto her a certain officer,
saying, Restore all that [was] hers, and all the (d) fruits of the field since the day that she left the land,
even until now.



(d) The king caused that to be justly restored which was wrongfully withheld from her.
#BCV:2 Kings 8:9
<h3><verse=2 Kings 8:9>4 Kings (2 Kings) 8:9</verse></h3>

So Hazael went to meet him, and took a present with him, even of every (e) good thing of
Damascus, forty camels' burden, and came and stood before him, and said, Thy son Benhadad king
of Syria hath sent me to thee, saying, Shall I recover of this disease?



(e) Of all the chiefest and precious things of the country.
#BCV:2 Kings 8:10
<h3><verse=2 Kings 8:10>4 Kings (2 Kings) 8:10</verse></h3>


<page=795>And Elisha said unto him, Go, say unto him, Thou mayest certainly (f) recover: howbeit the LORD
hath shewed me that he shall surely die.



(f) Meaning that he would recover of this disease: but he knew that this messenger Hazael would
slay him to obtain the kingdom.
#BCV:2 Kings 8:13
<h3><verse=2 Kings 8:13>4 Kings (2 Kings) 8:13</verse></h3>

And Hazael said, But what, [is] thy servant (g) a dog, that he should do this great thing? And Elisha
answered, The LORD hath shewed me that thou [shalt be] king over Syria.



(g) That I should be without all humanity and pity.
#BCV:2 Kings 8:15
<h3><verse=2 Kings 8:15>4 Kings (2 Kings) 8:15</verse></h3>

And it came to pass on the morrow, that he took a thick cloth, and dipped [it] in water, and (h)
spread [it] on his face, so that he died: and Hazael reigned in his stead.



(h) Under pretence to refresh or ease him, he suffocated him with his cloak.
#BCV:2 Kings 8:16
<h3><verse=2 Kings 8:16>4 Kings (2 Kings) 8:16</verse></h3>

And in the fifth year of Joram the son of Ahab king of Israel, Jehoshaphat [being] then king of
Judah, (i) Jehoram the son of Jehoshaphat king of Judah began to reign.



(i) Read (<bcv=II Ki 1:17>Kg2 1:17</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 8:18
<h3><verse=2 Kings 8:18>4 Kings (2 Kings) 8:18</verse></h3>

And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, as did the house of Ahab: for the (l) daughter of
Ahab was his wife: and he did evil in the sight of the LORD.



(l) The Holy Spirit shows by this the danger of joining with infidels.
#BCV:2 Kings 8:20
<h3><verse=2 Kings 8:20>4 Kings (2 Kings) 8:20</verse></h3>

In his days Edom (m) revolted from under the hand of Judah, and made a king over themselves.



(m) Which had been subject from David's time until this time of Jehoram.
#BCV:2 Kings 8:22
<h3><verse=2 Kings 8:22>4 Kings (2 Kings) 8:22</verse></h3>

<page=796>Yet Edom revolted from under the hand of Judah unto this day. Then (n) Libnah revolted at the
same time.



(n) This was a city in Judah given to the Levites, (<bcv=Jos 21:13>Jos 21:13</bcv>) that later turned from king Jehoram,
because of his idolatry.
#BCV:2 Kings 8:26
<h3><verse=2 Kings 8:26>4 Kings (2 Kings) 8:26</verse></h3>




(o) Two and twenty years old [was] Ahaziah when he began to reign; and he reigned one year in
Jerusalem. And his mother's name [was] Athaliah, the daughter of Omri king of Israel.



(o) Which is to be understood, that he was made king when his father reigned, but after his father's
death he was confirmed king when he was forty-two years old, as in (<bcv=2Ch 22:2>Ch2 22:2</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 8:28
<h3><verse=2 Kings 8:28>4 Kings (2 Kings) 8:28</verse></h3>

And he went with Joram the son of Ahab to the war against Hazael king of Syria in (p)
Ramothgilead; and the Syrians wounded Joram.



(p) Which was a city in the tribe of Gad beyond Jordan.
#BCV:2 Kings 8:29
<h3><verse=2 Kings 8:29>4 Kings (2 Kings) 8:29</verse></h3>

And king Joram went back to be healed in (q) Jezreel of the wounds which the Syrians had given
him at Ramah, when he fought against Hazael king of Syria. And Ahaziah the son of Jehoram king
of Judah went down to see Joram the son of Ahab in Jezreel, because he was sick.



(q) This is a city belonging to the tribe of Issachar.

<page=797>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 9


#BCV:2 Kings 9:1
<h3><verse=2 Kings 9:1>4 Kings (2 Kings) 9:1</verse></h3>

And Elisha the prophet called one of the children of the prophets, and said unto him, (a) Gird up
thy loins, and take this box of oil in thine hand, and go to Ramothgilead:



(a) Prepare yourself to go diligently about your business for in those countries they used long
garments which they tucked up when they went about earnest business.
#BCV:2 Kings 9:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 9:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 9:6</verse></h3>

And he arose, and went into the house; and he poured the oil on his head, and said unto him, Thus
saith the LORD God of Israel, I have (b) anointed thee king over the people of the LORD, [even]
over Israel.



(b) This anointing was for kings, priests and prophets which were all figures of Messiah, in whom
these three offices were accomplished.
#BCV:2 Kings 9:11
<h3><verse=2 Kings 9:11>4 Kings (2 Kings) 9:11</verse></h3>

Then Jehu came forth to the (c) servants of his lord: and [one] said unto him, [Is] all well? wherefore
came this (d) mad [fellow] to thee? And he said unto them, Ye know the man, and his
communication.



(c) That is, the rest of the army, whom he called his brethren before, (<bcv=II Ki 9:2>Kg2 9:2</bcv>).



(d) The world always holds the ministers of God is this estimation and has always slandered the
children of God (they called the Son of God a deceiver, and said he had the devil) therefore they
should not be discouraged.
#BCV:2 Kings 9:16
<h3><verse=2 Kings 9:16>4 Kings (2 Kings) 9:16</verse></h3>

So Jehu rode in a chariot, and went to Jezreel; for Joram lay there. And (e) Ahaziah king of Judah
was come down to see Joram.



(e) God had thus ordained as in (<bcv=2Ch 12:7>Ch2 12:7</bcv>), that this wicked and idolatrous king, who was more ready
to please wicked Joram than to obey the will of God, would perish with him, by whose means he
thought to have been stronger.
#BCV:2 Kings 9:20
<h3><verse=2 Kings 9:20>4 Kings (2 Kings) 9:20</verse></h3>

And the watchman told, saying, He came even unto them, and cometh not again: and the driving [is]
like the driving of Jehu the son of Nimshi; for he driveth (f) furiously.

<page=798>(f) As one that went earnestly about his business.


#BCV:2 Kings 9:22
<h3><verse=2 Kings 9:22>4 Kings (2 Kings) 9:22</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, when Joram saw Jehu, that he said, [Is it] (g) peace, Jehu? And he answered,
What peace, so long as the whoredoms of thy mother Jezebel and her witchcrafts [are so] many?



(g) Meaning, since God is their enemy because of their sins, he will always stir up someone to
avenge his cause.
#BCV:2 Kings 9:26
<h3><verse=2 Kings 9:26>4 Kings (2 Kings) 9:26</verse></h3>

Surely I have seen yesterday the blood of Naboth, and the blood of his (h) sons, saith the LORD;
and I will requite thee in this plat, saith the LORD. Now therefore take [and] cast him into the plat
[of ground], according to the word of the LORD.



(h) By this it is evident that Jezebel caused both Naboth and his sons to be put to death, that Ahab
might enjoy his vineyard more quietly: else his children might have claimed possession.
#BCV:2 Kings 9:27
<h3><verse=2 Kings 9:27>4 Kings (2 Kings) 9:27</verse></h3>

But when Ahaziah the king of Judah saw [this], he fled by the way of the garden house. And Jehu
followed after him, and said, Smite him also in the chariot. [And they did so] at the going up to Gur,
which [is] by Ibleam. And he fled to (i) Megiddo, and died there.



(i) After he was wounded in Samaria, he fled to Megiddo, a city of Judah.
#BCV:2 Kings 9:29
<h3><verse=2 Kings 9:29>4 Kings (2 Kings) 9:29</verse></h3>

And in the (k) eleventh year of Joram the son of Ahab began Ahaziah to reign over Judah.



(k) That is, eleven whole years: for in (<bcv=II Ki 8:25>Kg2 8:25</bcv>) when he said he began to reign in the twelfth year
of Joram, he takes a partial year for a whole.
#BCV:2 Kings 9:30
<h3><verse=2 Kings 9:30>4 Kings (2 Kings) 9:30</verse></h3>

And when Jehu was come to Jezreel, Jezebel heard [of it]; and she painted her face, and tired her
head, and (l) looked out at a window.



(l) Being of a harsh and cruel nature, she would still retain her royal state and dignity.
#BCV:2 Kings 9:31
<h3><verse=2 Kings 9:31>4 Kings (2 Kings) 9:31</verse></h3>

<page=799>And as Jehu entered in at the gate, she said, [Had] (m) Zimri peace, who slew his master?



(m) As if to say, "Can a traitor or anyone who rises against his superior succeed?", see (<bcv=I Ki 16:10>Kg1 16:10</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 9:33
<h3><verse=2 Kings 9:33>4 Kings (2 Kings) 9:33</verse></h3>

And he said, Throw her down. So they threw her down: (n) and [some] of her blood was sprinkled
on the wall, and on the horses: and he trode her under foot.



(n) This he did by the moving of the Spirit of God, that her blood would be shed, who had shed the
blood of innocents, to be a spectacle and example of God's judgment for all tyrants.
#BCV:2 Kings 9:34
<h3><verse=2 Kings 9:34>4 Kings (2 Kings) 9:34</verse></h3>

And when he was come in, he did eat and drink, and said, Go, see now this cursed [woman], and
bury her: for she [is] a (o) king's daughter.



(o) That is, of the king of Zidon, (<bcv=I Ki 16:31>Kg1 16:31</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 9:37
<h3><verse=2 Kings 9:37>4 Kings (2 Kings) 9:37</verse></h3>

And the carcase of Jezebel shall be as dung upon the face of the field in the portion of Jezreel; [so]
that they shall not say, (p) This [is] Jezebel.



(p) Thus God's judgments appear even in this world against those who suppress his word and
persecute his servants.

<page=800>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 10


#BCV:2 Kings 10:1
<h3><verse=2 Kings 10:1>4 Kings (2 Kings) 10:1</verse></h3>

And Ahab had seventy (a) sons in Samaria. And Jehu wrote letters, and sent to Samaria, unto the
rulers of Jezreel, to the elders, and to them that brought up Ahab's [children], saying,



(a) The Scripture calls them sons who are either children or nephews.
#BCV:2 Kings 10:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 10:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 10:3</verse></h3>

Look even out the best and meetest of your master's sons, and (b) set [him] on his father's throne,
and fight for your master's house.



(b) He wrote this, to prove them whether they would take his side or not.
#BCV:2 Kings 10:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 10:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 10:6</verse></h3>

Then he wrote a letter the second time to them, saying, If ye [be] mine, and [if] ye will hearken unto
my voice, (c) take ye the heads of the men your master's sons, and come to me to Jezreel by to
morrow this time. Now the king's sons, [being] seventy persons, [were] with the great men of the
city, which brought them up.



(c) God as a just judge punishes the wicked children of wicked parents to the third and fourth
generations.
#BCV:2 Kings 10:9
<h3><verse=2 Kings 10:9>4 Kings (2 Kings) 10:9</verse></h3>

And it came to pass in the morning, that he went out, and stood, and said to all the people, Ye [be]



(d) righteous: behold, I conspired against my master, and slew him: but who slew all these?



(d) You cannot justly condemn me for the king's death, seeing as you have done the same to his
posterity: for the Lord commanded me, and moved you to carry out his judgment.
#BCV:2 Kings 10:11
<h3><verse=2 Kings 10:11>4 Kings (2 Kings) 10:11</verse></h3>

So Jehu slew all that remained of the house of Ahab in Jezreel, and all his great men, and his
kinsfolks, and his (e) priests, until he left him none remaining.



(e) Meaning, the idolatrous priests.
#BCV:2 Kings 10:14
<h3><verse=2 Kings 10:14>4 Kings (2 Kings) 10:14</verse></h3>

<page=801>And he said, Take them alive. And they took them alive, and slew them at the pit of the shearing
house, [even] two and forty men; (f) neither left he any of them.



(f) Thus God's vengeance is on them who have any part or familiarity with the wicked.
#BCV:2 Kings 10:15
<h3><verse=2 Kings 10:15>4 Kings (2 Kings) 10:15</verse></h3>

And when he was departed thence, he lighted on Jehonadab the son of Rechab [coming] to meet
him: and he (g) saluted him, and said to him, Is thine heart right, as my heart [is] with thy heart? And
Jehonadab answered, It is. If it be, give [me] thine hand. And he gave [him] his hand; and he took
him up to him into the chariot.



(g) For he feared God, and lamented the wickedness of those times: therefore Jehu was glad to join
with him: of Rechab read (<bcv=Jer 35:2>Jer 35:2</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 10:18
<h3><verse=2 Kings 10:18>4 Kings (2 Kings) 10:18</verse></h3>

And Jehu gathered all the people together, and said unto them, Ahab served (h) Baal a little; [but]
Jehu shall serve him much.



(h) Here Baal is taken for Ashtaroth the idol of the Zidonians, who Jezebel caused to be worshipped,
as it is also so used in (<bcv=I Ki 22:53>Kg1 22:53</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 10:23
<h3><verse=2 Kings 10:23>4 Kings (2 Kings) 10:23</verse></h3>

And Jehu went, and Jehonadab the son of Rechab, into the house of Baal, and said unto the
worshippers of Baal, Search, and look that there be here with you none of the (i) servants of the
LORD, but the worshippers of Baal only.



(i) Thus God would have his servants preserved and idolaters destroyed, as in his law he gives
express command, (<bcv=Deu 13:5>Deu 13:5</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 10:25
<h3><verse=2 Kings 10:25>4 Kings (2 Kings) 10:25</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, as soon as he had made an end of offering the burnt offering, that Jehu said to
the guard and to the captains, Go in, [and] slay them; let none come forth. And they smote them
with the edge of the sword; and the guard and the captains cast [them] out, and went to the (k) city
of the house of Baal.



(k) Which was near Samaria.
#BCV:2 Kings 10:30
<h3><verse=2 Kings 10:30>4 Kings (2 Kings) 10:30</verse></h3>

<page=802>And the LORD said unto Jehu, Because thou hast done well in executing [that which is] right in
mine eyes, [and] hast done unto the house of Ahab according to all that [was] in mine heart, thy (l)
children of the fourth [generation] shall sit on the throne of Israel.



(l) Thus God approves and rewards his zeal, in executing God's judgment, though his wickedness
was later punished.

<page=803>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 11


#BCV:2 Kings 11:1
<h3><verse=2 Kings 11:1>4 Kings (2 Kings) 11:1</verse></h3>

And when Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she arose and destroyed all
the (a) seed royal.



(a) Meaning, all the posterity of Jehoshaphat, to whom the kingdom belonged: thus God used the
cruelty of this woman to destroy the family of Ahab.
#BCV:2 Kings 11:2
<h3><verse=2 Kings 11:2>4 Kings (2 Kings) 11:2</verse></h3>

But Jehosheba, the daughter of king Joram, sister of Ahaziah, (b) took Joash the son of Ahaziah,
and stole him from among the king's sons [which were] slain; and they hid him, [even] him and his
nurse, in (c) the bedchamber from Athaliah, so that he was not slain.



(b) The Lord promised to maintain the family of David, and not to quench the light of it, therefore
he moved the heart of Jehosheba to preserve him.



(c) Where the priests slept.
#BCV:2 Kings 11:4
<h3><verse=2 Kings 11:4>4 Kings (2 Kings) 11:4</verse></h3>

And the seventh year (d) Jehoiada sent and fetched the rulers over hundreds, with the captains and
the guard, and brought them to him into the house of the LORD, and made a covenant with them,
and took an oath of them in the house of the LORD, and shewed them the king's son.



(d) The chief priest, Jehosheba's husband.
#BCV:2 Kings 11:5
<h3><verse=2 Kings 11:5>4 Kings (2 Kings) 11:5</verse></h3>

And he commanded them, saying, This [is] the thing that ye shall do; A third part of (e) you that
enter in on the sabbath shall (f) even be keepers of the watch of the king's house;



(e) Of the Levites, who had charge of the keeping of the temple, and kept watch by course.



(f) That no one should come on them, while they were crowning the king.
#BCV:2 Kings 11:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 11:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 11:6</verse></h3>

And a third part [shall be] at the gate of (g) Sur; and a third part at the gate behind the guard: so
shall ye keep the watch of the house, that it be not broken down.



(g) Called the east gate of the temple, (<bcv=2Ch 23:5>Ch2 23:5</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 11:7
<h3><verse=2 Kings 11:7>4 Kings (2 Kings) 11:7</verse></h3>

<page=804>And two parts of all you that (h) go forth on the sabbath, even they shall keep the watch of the
house of the LORD about the king.



(h) Whose charge is ended.
#BCV:2 Kings 11:9
<h3><verse=2 Kings 11:9>4 Kings (2 Kings) 11:9</verse></h3>

And the captains over the hundreds did according to all [things] that Jehoiada the priest commanded:
and they took every man his men that were to come in on the sabbath, with them that should go out
on the (i) sabbath, and came to Jehoiada the priest.



(i) Read (<bcv=II Ki 11:5>Kg2 11:5</bcv>, <bcv=2Kings 11:7>Kg2 11:7</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 11:10
<h3><verse=2 Kings 11:10>4 Kings (2 Kings) 11:10</verse></h3>

And to the captains over hundreds did the (k) priest give king David's spears and shields, that [were]
in the temple of the LORD.



(k) That is, Jehoiada.
#BCV:2 Kings 11:12
<h3><verse=2 Kings 11:12>4 Kings (2 Kings) 11:12</verse></h3>

And he brought forth (l) the king's son, and put the crown upon him, and [gave him] (m) the
testimony; and they made him king, and anointed him; and they clapped their hands, and said, God
save the king.



(l) That is, Joash, who had been kept secret six years.



(m) Meaning, the law of God, which is his chief charge, and by which only his throne is established.
#BCV:2 Kings 11:14
<h3><verse=2 Kings 11:14>4 Kings (2 Kings) 11:14</verse></h3>

And when she looked, behold, the king stood by a (n) pillar, as the manner [was], and the princes
and the trumpeters by the king, and all the people of the land rejoiced, and blew with trumpets: and
Athaliah rent her clothes, and cried, Treason, Treason.



(n) Where the king's place was in the temple.
#BCV:2 Kings 11:15
<h3><verse=2 Kings 11:15>4 Kings (2 Kings) 11:15</verse></h3>

<page=805>But Jehoiada the priest commanded the captains of the hundreds, the officers of the host, and said
unto them, Have her forth without the ranges: and him that (o) followeth her kill with the sword.
For the priest had said, Let her not be slain in the house of the LORD.



(o) To take her part.
#BCV:2 Kings 11:17
<h3><verse=2 Kings 11:17>4 Kings (2 Kings) 11:17</verse></h3>

And Jehoiada made a (p) covenant between the LORD and the king and the people, that they should
be the LORD'S people; between the (q) king also and the people.



(p) That both the king and the people should maintain the true worship of God and destroy all
idolatry.



(q) That he should govern and they obey in the fear of God.
#BCV:2 Kings 11:18
<h3><verse=2 Kings 11:18>4 Kings (2 Kings) 11:18</verse></h3>

And all the people of the land went into the house of Baal, and brake it down; his altars and his
images brake they in pieces thoroughly, and slew Mattan the priest of Baal before the (r) altars. And
the (s) priest appointed officers over the house of the LORD.



(r) Even in the place where he had blasphemed God, and thought to have been helped by his idol,
there God poured his vengeance on him.



(s) That is, Jehoiada.
#BCV:2 Kings 11:20
<h3><verse=2 Kings 11:20>4 Kings (2 Kings) 11:20</verse></h3>

And all the people of the land rejoiced, and the city was in quiet: (t) and they slew Athaliah with the
sword [beside] the king's house.



(t) Who by his cruelty and persecution had troubled the whole land.

<page=806>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 12


#BCV:2 Kings 12:2
<h3><verse=2 Kings 12:2>4 Kings (2 Kings) 12:2</verse></h3>

And Jehoash did [that which was] right in the sight of the LORD all his days wherein (a) Jehoiada
the priest instructed him.



(a) As long as rulers give ear to the true ministers of God, they prosper.
#BCV:2 Kings 12:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 12:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 12:3</verse></h3>

But (b) the high places were not taken away: the people still sacrificed and burnt incense in the high
places.



(b) So hard a thing it is for them, that are in authority, to be brought to the perfect obedience of
God.
#BCV:2 Kings 12:4
<h3><verse=2 Kings 12:4>4 Kings (2 Kings) 12:4</verse></h3>

And Jehoash said to the priests, All the money of the dedicated things that is brought into the house
of the LORD, [even] the money of every one that passeth [the (c) account], the money that every
man is set at, [and] all the money that cometh into any man's heart to bring into the house of the
LORD,



(c) That is, the money of redemption (<bcv=Exo 30:12>Exo 30:12</bcv>), also the money which the priest valued the vows
at (<bcv=Lev 27:2>Lev 27:2</bcv>), and their free gift.
#BCV:2 Kings 12:5
<h3><verse=2 Kings 12:5>4 Kings (2 Kings) 12:5</verse></h3>

Let the priests take [it] to them, every man of his acquaintance: and let them repair the (d) breaches
of the house, wheresoever any breach shall be found.



(d) For the temple which was built a hundred and fifty-five years before, had many things decayed in
it, both by the negligence of the king's predecessors, and also by the wickedness of the idolaters.
#BCV:2 Kings 12:7
<h3><verse=2 Kings 12:7>4 Kings (2 Kings) 12:7</verse></h3>

Then king Jehoash called for Jehoiada the priest, and the [other] priests, and said unto them, Why
repair ye not the breaches of the house? now therefore (e) receive no [more] money of your
acquaintance, but deliver it for the breaches of the house.



(e) He takes from them the ordering of the money, because of their negligence.
#BCV:2 Kings 12:9
<h3><verse=2 Kings 12:9>4 Kings (2 Kings) 12:9</verse></h3>


<page=807>But Jehoiada the priest took a chest, and bored a hole in the lid of it, and set it beside the altar, on
the (f) right side as one cometh into the house of the LORD: and the priests that kept the door put
therein all the money [that was] brought into the house of the LORD.



(f) That is, on the south side.
#BCV:2 Kings 12:11
<h3><verse=2 Kings 12:11>4 Kings (2 Kings) 12:11</verse></h3>

And they gave the money, being told, into the hands of them (g) that did the work, that had the
oversight of the house of the LORD: and they laid it out to the carpenters and builders, that
wrought upon the house of the LORD,



(g) For the king had appointed others who were fit for that purpose, (<bcv=II Ki 22:5>Kg2 22:5</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 12:13
<h3><verse=2 Kings 12:13>4 Kings (2 Kings) 12:13</verse></h3>

Howbeit there were (h) not made for the house of the LORD bowls of silver, snuffers, basons,
trumpets, any vessels of gold, or vessels of silver, of the money [that was] brought into the house
of the LORD:



(h) For these men only had charge of the repairing of the temple, the rest of the money was
brought to the king who caused these to be made later, (<bcv=2Ch 24:14>Ch2 24:14</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 12:18
<h3><verse=2 Kings 12:18>4 Kings (2 Kings) 12:18</verse></h3>

And Jehoash king of Judah took all the hallowed things that Jehoshaphat, and Jehoram, and Ahaziah,
his fathers, kings of Judah, had dedicated, and his own hallowed things, and all the gold [that was]
found in the treasures of the house of the LORD, and in the king's house, and (i) sent [it] to Hazael
king of Syria: and he went away from Jerusalem.



(i) After the death of Jehoiada, Joash fell to idolatry: therefore God rejected him, and stirred up his
enemy against him, whom he pacified with the treasures of the temple: for God would not be
served with those gifts, seeing the king's heart was wicked.
#BCV:2 Kings 12:20
<h3><verse=2 Kings 12:20>4 Kings (2 Kings) 12:20</verse></h3>

And his servants arose, and made a conspiracy, and (k) slew Joash in the house of (l) Millo, which
goeth down to Silla.

(k) Because he had put Zachariah the son of Jehoiada to death, (<bcv=2Ch 24:25>Ch2 24:25</bcv>).

(l) Read (<bcv=II Sa 5:9>Sa2 5:9</bcv>).

<page=808>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 13


#BCV:2 Kings 13:2
<h3><verse=2 Kings 13:2>4 Kings (2 Kings) 13:2</verse></h3>

And he did [that which was] evil in the sight of the LORD, and followed the sins of Jeroboam the
son of Nebat, which made Israel to (a) sin; he departed not therefrom.



(a) By worshipping the calves Jeroboam erected in Israel.
#BCV:2 Kings 13:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 13:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 13:3</verse></h3>

And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he delivered them into the hand of
Hazael king of Syria, and into the hand of Benhadad the son of Hazael, all (b) [their] days.



(b) While Jehoahaz lived.
#BCV:2 Kings 13:5
<h3><verse=2 Kings 13:5>4 Kings (2 Kings) 13:5</verse></h3>




(And the LORD gave Israel a (c) saviour, so that they went out from under the hand of the Syrians:
and the children of Israel (d) dwelt in their tents, as beforetime.



(c) That is, Joash the son of Jehoahaz.



(d) Safely and without danger.
#BCV:2 Kings 13:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 13:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 13:6</verse></h3>

Nevertheless they departed not from the sins of the house of Jeroboam, who made Israel sin, [but]
walked therein: and there remained the (e) grove also in Samaria.)



(e) In which they committed their idolatry, and which the Lord had commanded to be destroyed



(<bcv=Deu 16:21>Deu 16:21</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 13:7
<h3><verse=2 Kings 13:7>4 Kings (2 Kings) 13:7</verse></h3>

Neither did he leave of the people to Jehoahaz but fifty horsemen, and ten chariots, and ten
thousand footmen; for the king of (f) Syria had destroyed them, and had made them like the dust by
threshing.



(f) That is, Hazael and Benhadad his son, (<bcv=II Ki 13:3>Kg2 13:3</bcv>). Of Hazael read (<bcv=II Ki 13:22>Kg2 13:22</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 13:10
<h3><verse=2 Kings 13:10>4 Kings (2 Kings) 13:10</verse></h3>

<page=809>In the thirty and seventh year of Joash king (g) of Judah began Jehoash the son of Jehoahaz to reign
over Israel in Samaria, [and reigned] sixteen years.



(g) His chief purpose is to describe the kingdom of Judah, and how God performed his promise
made to the house of David: but in the process he shows how Israel was afflicted and punished for
their great idolatry, who though they had now degenerated, yet God both by sending them many
prophets and various punishments, called them to him again.
#BCV:2 Kings 13:14
<h3><verse=2 Kings 13:14>4 Kings (2 Kings) 13:14</verse></h3>

Now Elisha was fallen sick of his sickness whereof he died. And Joash the king of Israel came
down unto him, and wept over his face, and said, (h) O my father, my father, the chariot of Israel,
and the horsemen thereof.



(h) Thus they used to call the prophets and servants of God, by whom God blesses his people, as in



(<bcv=II Ki 2:12>Kg2 2:12</bcv>) meaning that they prospered their country more by their prayers than by force of arms.
#BCV:2 Kings 13:17
<h3><verse=2 Kings 13:17>4 Kings (2 Kings) 13:17</verse></h3>

And he said, Open the window (i) eastward. And he opened [it]. Then Elisha said, Shoot. And he
shot. And he said, The arrow of the LORD'S deliverance, and the arrow of deliverance from Syria:
for thou shalt smite the Syrians in Aphek, till thou have consumed [them].



(i) That is, toward Syria: so that he not only prophesied with words but also confirmed him by these
signs that he would have the victory.
#BCV:2 Kings 13:19
<h3><verse=2 Kings 13:19>4 Kings (2 Kings) 13:19</verse></h3>

And the man of God was (k) wroth with him, and said, Thou shouldest have smitten five or six
times; then hadst thou smitten Syria till thou hadst consumed [it]: whereas now thou shalt smite
Syria [but] thrice.



(k) Because he seemed content to have victory against the enemies of God two or three times but
did not have the zeal to overcome them continually, and to destroy them completely.
#BCV:2 Kings 13:21
<h3><verse=2 Kings 13:21>4 Kings (2 Kings) 13:21</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, as they were burying a man, that, behold, they spied a band [of men]; and they
cast the man into the sepulchre of Elisha: and when the man was let down, and touched the bones
of Elisha, he (l) revived, and stood up on his feet.



(l) By this miracle God confirmed the authority of Elisha, whose doctrine in his life they contemned,
that at this sight they might return and embrace the same doctrine.
#BCV:2 Kings 13:23
<h3><verse=2 Kings 13:23>4 Kings (2 Kings) 13:23</verse></h3>


And the LORD was gracious unto them, and had compassion on them, and had respect unto them,
because of his covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and would not destroy them, neither cast
he them from his presence as (m) yet.



(m) That is, until their sins were come to a full measure and there was no more hope of amendment.

<page=811><h2>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 14<h2>

#BCV:2 Kings 14:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 14:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 14:3</verse></h3>

And he did [that which was] (a) right in the sight of the LORD, yet not like David his father: he did
according to all things as Joash his father did.



(a) In the beginning of his reign he seemed to have an outward show of godliness, but later he
became an idolater and worshipped the idols of the Idumeans.
#BCV:2 Kings 14:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 14:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 14:6</verse></h3>

But the children of the murderers he (b) slew not: according unto that which is written in the book
of the law of Moses, wherein the LORD commanded, saying, The fathers shall not be put to death
for the children, nor the children be put to death for the fathers; but every man shall be put to death
for his own sin.



(b) Because they neither consented nor were partakers with their fathers in that act.
#BCV:2 Kings 14:7
<h3><verse=2 Kings 14:7>4 Kings (2 Kings) 14:7</verse></h3>

He slew of (c) Edom in the valley of salt ten thousand, and took Selah by war, and called the name
of it Joktheel unto this day.



(c) For the Idumeans, whom David had brought to subjection, rebelled in the time of Jehoram son
of Jehoshaphat.
#BCV:2 Kings 14:8
<h3><verse=2 Kings 14:8>4 Kings (2 Kings) 14:8</verse></h3>

Then Amaziah sent messengers to Jehoash, the son of Jehoahaz son of Jehu, king of Israel, saying,
Come, (d) let us look one another in the face.



(d) Let us fight hand to hand, and try it by battle, and not destroy one another's cities.
#BCV:2 Kings 14:9
<h3><verse=2 Kings 14:9>4 Kings (2 Kings) 14:9</verse></h3>

And Jehoash the king of Israel sent to Amaziah king of Judah, saying, The thistle that [was] in
Lebanon sent to the (e) cedar that [was] in Lebanon, saying, Give thy daughter to my son to wife:
and there passed by a wild beast that [was] in Lebanon, and trode down the thistle.



(e) By this parable Jehoash compares himself to a cedar tree, because of his great kingdom over ten
tribes and Amaziah to the thistle because he ruled over but two tribes and the wild beasts are
Jehoash's soldiers, that spoiled the cities of Judah.

<page=812>4 Kings (2 Kings) 14:10

#BCV:2 Kings 14:10</bcv>
<h3><verse=II Ki 14:10>II Ki 14:10</verse></h3>

Thou hast indeed smitten Edom, and thine heart hath lifted thee up: (f) glory [of this], and tarry at
home: for why shouldest thou meddle to [thy] hurt, that thou shouldest fall, [even] thou, and Judah
with thee?



(f) Brag of the victory, so that you stay at home and do not provoke me.
#BCV:2 Kings 14:14
<h3><verse=2 Kings 14:14>4 Kings (2 Kings) 14:14</verse></h3>

And he took all the gold and silver, and all the vessels that were found in the house of the LORD,
and in the treasures of the king's house, and (g) hostages, and returned to Samaria.



(g) That is, which the Israelites had given to them from Judah for an assurance of peace.
#BCV:2 Kings 14:19
<h3><verse=2 Kings 14:19>4 Kings (2 Kings) 14:19</verse></h3>

Now they made a conspiracy against him in Jerusalem: and he fled to (h) Lachish; but they sent after
him to Lachish, and slew him there.



(h) Which Rehoboam built in Judah for a fortress, (<bcv=2Ch 11:9>Ch2 11:9</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 14:21
<h3><verse=2 Kings 14:21>4 Kings (2 Kings) 14:21</verse></h3>

And all the people of Judah took (i) Azariah, which [was] sixteen years old, and made him king
instead of his father Amaziah.



(i) Who is also called Uzziah, (<bcv=2Ch 26:1>Ch2 26:1</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 14:22
<h3><verse=2 Kings 14:22>4 Kings (2 Kings) 14:22</verse></h3>

He built (k) Elath, and restored it to Judah, after that the king slept with his fathers.



(k) Which is also called Elanon or Eloth.
#BCV:2 Kings 14:24
<h3><verse=2 Kings 14:24>4 Kings (2 Kings) 14:24</verse></h3>

And he did [that which was] evil in the sight of the LORD: he departed not from all the (l) sins of
Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin.



(l) Because this idolatry was so vile and almost incredible, that men should forsake the living God, to
worship calves, the work of man's hands, therefore the Scripture often repeats it in the reproach of
all idolaters.
#BCV:2 Kings 14:26
<h3><verse=2 Kings 14:26>4 Kings (2 Kings) 14:26</verse></h3>


<page=813>For the LORD saw the affliction of Israel, [that it was] very bitter: for [there was] not any (m) shut
up, nor any left, nor any helper for Israel.



(m) Read (<bcv=I Ki 14:10>Kg1 14:10</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 14:28
<h3><verse=2 Kings 14:28>4 Kings (2 Kings) 14:28</verse></h3>

Now the rest of the acts of Jeroboam, and all that he did, and his might, how he warred, and how
he recovered Damascus, and (n) Hamath, [which belonged] to Judah, for Israel, are they not written
in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?



(n) Which was also called Antiochia of Syria or Riblah.

<page=814>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 15


#BCV:2 Kings 15:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 15:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 15:3</verse></h3>

And he did [that which was] (a) right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that his father
Amaziah had done;



(a) As long as he listened to Zachariah the prophet.
#BCV:2 Kings 15:5
<h3><verse=2 Kings 15:5>4 Kings (2 Kings) 15:5</verse></h3>

And the LORD (b) smote the king, so that he was a leper unto the day of his death, and dwelt in a
several house. And Jotham the king's son [was] over the house, (c) judging the people of the land.



(b) His father and grandfather were slain by their subjects and servants, and he because he would
usurp the priest's office contrary to God's ordinance was smitten immediately by the hand of God
with the leprosy, (<bcv=2Ch 26:21>Ch2 26:21</bcv>).



(c) As viceroy or deputy to his father.
#BCV:2 Kings 15:8
<h3><verse=2 Kings 15:8>4 Kings (2 Kings) 15:8</verse></h3>

In the thirty and eighth year of Azariah king of Judah did Zachariah the son of Jeroboam reign over
Israel in Samaria six (d) months.



(d) He was the fourth in descent from Jehu, who reigned according to God's promise, but in him
God began to execute his wrath against the house of Jehu.
#BCV:2 Kings 15:10
<h3><verse=2 Kings 15:10>4 Kings (2 Kings) 15:10</verse></h3>

And Shallum the son of Jabesh conspired against him, and smote him before the people, and (e)
slew him, and reigned in his stead.



(e) Zachariah was the last in Israel, that had the kingdom by succession, save only Pekahiah the son
of Menahem, who reigned only two years.
#BCV:2 Kings 15:16
<h3><verse=2 Kings 15:16>4 Kings (2 Kings) 15:16</verse></h3>

Then Menahem smote (f) Tiphsah, and all that [were] therein, and the coasts thereof from Tirzah:
because they opened not [to him], therefore he smote [it; and] all the women therein that were with
child he ripped up.



(f) Which was a city of Israel that would not receive him as their king.

4 Kings (2 Kings) 15:19

<page=815>[And] Pul the king of Assyria came against the (g) land: and Menahem gave Pul a thousand (h)

talents of silver, that his hand might be with him to confirm the kingdom in his hand.



(g) That is, of Israel.



(h) Instead of seeking help from God, he went about by money to purchase the favour of this king
being an infidel and therefore God forsook him, and Pul soon afterward broke his promises,
destroyed his country and led his people away captive.
#BCV:2 Kings 15:25
<h3><verse=2 Kings 15:25>4 Kings (2 Kings) 15:25</verse></h3>

But Pekah the son of Remaliah, a captain of his, conspired against him, and smote him in Samaria,
in the palace of the king's house, with (i) Argob and Arieh, and with him fifty men of the Gileadites:
and he killed him, and reigned in his room.



(i) Which were of the same conspiracy.
#BCV:2 Kings 15:29
<h3><verse=2 Kings 15:29>4 Kings (2 Kings) 15:29</verse></h3>

In the days of Pekah king of Israel (k) came Tiglathpileser king of Assyria, and took Ijon, and
Abelbethmaachah, and Janoah, and Kedesh, and Hazor, and Gilead, and Galilee, all the land of
Naphtali, and carried them captive to Assyria.



(k) For God stirred up Pul and Tiglathpileser against Israel for their sins, (<bcv=1Ch 5:26>Ch1 5:26</bcv>).
4 Kings (2 Kings) 15:34


And he did [that which was] right in the sight of the LORD: he did according (l) to all that his father
Uzziah had done.



(l) He shows that his uprightness was not such, but that he had many great faults.
#BCV:2 Kings 15:37
<h3><verse=2 Kings 15:37>4 Kings (2 Kings) 15:37</verse></h3>

In (m) those days the LORD began to send against Judah Rezin the king of Syria, and (n) Pekah the
son of Remaliah.



(m) After the death of Jotham.



(n) Who in one day slew 120,000 of Judah's fighting men (<bcv=2Ch 28:6>Ch2 28:6</bcv>), because they had forsaken the
true God.

<page=816>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 16


#BCV:2 Kings 16:1
<h3><verse=2 Kings 16:1>4 Kings (2 Kings) 16:1</verse></h3>

In the seventeenth year of Pekah the son of Remaliah (a) Ahaz the son of Jotham king of Judah
began to reign.



(a) This was a wicked son of a godly father, as of him again came godly Hezekiah, and of him
wicked Manasseh, save that God in the end showed him mercy. Thus we see how uncertain it is to
depend on the dignity of our fathers.
#BCV:2 Kings 16:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 16:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 16:3</verse></h3>

But he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, yea, and made his son to (b) pass through the fire,
according to the abominations of the heathen, whom the LORD cast out from before the children
of Israel.



(b) That is, offered him to Molech or made him pass between two fires, as the manner of the
Gentiles was, (<bcv=Lev 18:21>Lev 18:21</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 18:10> Deu 18:10</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 16:5
<h3><verse=2 Kings 16:5>4 Kings (2 Kings) 16:5</verse></h3>

Then Rezin king of Syria and Pekah son of Remaliah king of Israel came up to Jerusalem to war:
and they besieged Ahaz, but could not overcome (c) [him].



(c) For the Lord preserved the city and his people for the sake of his promise made to David.
#BCV:2 Kings 16:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 16:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 16:6</verse></h3>

At that time Rezin king of Syria recovered (d) Elath to Syria, and drave the Jews from Elath: and the
Syrians came to Elath, and dwelt there unto this day.



(d) Which Azariah had taken from the Syrians and fortified, (<bcv=II Ki 14:22>Kg2 14:22</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 16:7
<h3><verse=2 Kings 16:7>4 Kings (2 Kings) 16:7</verse></h3>

So Ahaz sent (e) messengers to Tiglathpileser king of Assyria, saying, I [am] thy servant and thy son:
come up, and save me out of the hand of the king of Syria, and out of the hand of the king of
Israel, which rise up against me.



(e) Contrary to the admonition of the prophet Isaiah, (<bcv=Isa 7:4>Isa 7:4</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 16:8
<h3><verse=2 Kings 16:8>4 Kings (2 Kings) 16:8</verse></h3>

<page=817>And Ahaz took the silver and gold that was found in the (f) house of the LORD, and in the
treasures of the king's house, and sent [it for] a present to the king of Assyria.



(f) Thus he did not spare the temple of God from being spoiled to gain help from men and would
not once lift his heart to God to desire his help or hear his prophet's counsel.
#BCV:2 Kings 16:11
<h3><verse=2 Kings 16:11>4 Kings (2 Kings) 16:11</verse></h3>

And Urijah the priest built an altar (g) according to all that king Ahaz had sent from Damascus: so
Urijah the priest made [it] against king Ahaz came from Damascus.



(g) We see that there is no prince so wicked that he cannot find liars and false ministers to serve his
purposes.
#BCV:2 Kings 16:12
<h3><verse=2 Kings 16:12>4 Kings (2 Kings) 16:12</verse></h3>

And when the king was come from Damascus, the king saw the altar: and the king approached to
the altar, and offered (h) thereon.



(h) Either offerings for peace or prosperity, or thanksgiving as in (<bcv=Lev 3:1>Lev 3:1</bcv>) or else meaning the
morning and evening offering, (<bcv=Exo 29:38>Exo 29:38</bcv>;<bcv=Num 28:3> Num 28:3</bcv>) and thus he contemned the means and the altar
which God had commanded by Solomon, to serve God after his own fantasy.
#BCV:2 Kings 16:14
<h3><verse=2 Kings 16:14>4 Kings (2 Kings) 16:14</verse></h3>

And he brought also the brasen altar, which [was] before the LORD, from the forefront of the
house, from between the altar and the house of the LORD, and put it on the (i) north side of the
altar.



(i) That is, at the right hand, as men went into the temple.
#BCV:2 Kings 16:15
<h3><verse=2 Kings 16:15>4 Kings (2 Kings) 16:15</verse></h3>

And king Ahaz commanded Urijah the priest, saying, Upon the great altar burn the morning burnt
offering, and the evening meat offering, and the king's burnt sacrifice, and his meat offering, with
the burnt offering of all the people of the land, and their meat offering, and their drink offerings;
and sprinkle upon it all the blood of the burnt offering, and all the blood of the sacrifice: and the (k)
brasen altar shall be for me to enquire [by].



(k) Here he establishes by commandment his own wicked proceedings, and abolishes the
commandment and ordinance of God.
#BCV:2 Kings 16:18
<h3><verse=2 Kings 16:18>4 Kings (2 Kings) 16:18</verse></h3>

<page=818>And the (l) covert for the sabbath that they had built in the house, and the king's entry without,
turned he from the house of the LORD (m) for the king of Assyria.



(l) Or tent, in which they lay on the sabbath, who had served their week in the temple and so
departed home.



(m) Either to flatter the king of Assyria, when he should thus see him change the ordinance of God
or else that the temple might be a refuge for him if the king should suddenly assault his house.

<page=819>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 17


#BCV:2 Kings 17:2
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:2>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:2</verse></h3>

And he did [that which was] evil in the sight of the LORD, (a) but not as the kings of Israel that
were before him.



(a) Though he invented no new idolatry or impiety as others did, yet he sought help from the
Egyptians, whom God had forbidden.
#BCV:2 Kings 17:4
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:4>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:4</verse></h3>

And the king of Assyria found conspiracy in Hoshea: for he had sent messengers to So king of
Egypt, and brought no present to the king of Assyria, (b) as [he had done] year by year: therefore
the king of Assyria shut him up, and bound him in prison.



(b) For he had paid tribute for eight years.
#BCV:2 Kings 17:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:6</verse></h3>

In the ninth year of Hoshea the king of Assyria took Samaria, and carried Israel away into Assyria,
and placed them in Halah and in Habor [by] the river of Gozan, and in the cities of the (c) Medes.



(c) For at this time the Medes and Persians were subject to the Assyrians.
#BCV:2 Kings 17:7
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:7>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:7</verse></h3>

For [so] it was, that the children of Israel had (d) sinned against the LORD their God, which had
brought them up out of the land of Egypt, from under the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt, and
had feared other gods,



(d) He sets forth at length the cause of this great plague and perpetual captivity, to admonish all
people, and nations to cleave to the Lord God, and worship only him for fear of similar judgment.
#BCV:2 Kings 17:9
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:9>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:9</verse></h3>

And the children of Israel did secretly [those] things that [were] not right against the LORD their
God, and they built them high places in all their cities, from the tower (e) of the watchmen to the
fenced city.



(e) Meaning, throughout all their borders.
#BCV:2 Kings 17:14
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:14>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:14</verse></h3>

<page=820>Notwithstanding they would not hear, but hardened their necks, like to the neck of their (f) fathers,
that did not believe in the LORD their God.



(f) So that to allege the authority of our fathers or great antiquity, except we can prove that they
were godly, is but to declare that we are the children of the wicked.
#BCV:2 Kings 17:16
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:16>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:16</verse></h3>

And they left all the commandments of the LORD their God, and made them molten images, [even]
two calves, and made a grove, and worshipped all the (g) host of heaven, and served Baal.



(g) That is, the sun, moon and stars, (<bcv=Deu 4:19>Deu 4:19</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 17:17
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:17>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:17</verse></h3>

And they caused their sons and their daughters to (h) pass through the fire, and used divination and
enchantments, and (i) sold themselves to do evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger.



(h) Read (<bcv=II Ki 16:3>Kg2 16:3</bcv>).



(i) Read of this phrase in (<bcv=I Ki 21:20>Kg1 21:20</bcv>,<bcv=1Ki 21:25> Kg1 21:25).</bcv>

#BCV:2 Kings 17:18
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:18>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:18</verse></h3>

Therefore the LORD was very angry with Israel, and removed them out of his sight: there was none
left but the tribe of Judah (k) only.



(k) No whole tribe was left but Judah, and they of Benjamin and Levi who remained were counted
with Judah.
#BCV:2 Kings 17:20
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:20>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:20</verse></h3>

And the LORD rejected all the seed of Israel, and afflicted them, and delivered them into the hand
of spoilers, until he had cast them out of his (l) sight.



(l) Out of the land where he showed the greatest tokens of his presence and favour.
#BCV:2 Kings 17:21
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:21>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:21</verse></h3>




(m) For he rent Israel from the house of David; and they made Jeroboam the son of Nebat king:
and Jeroboam drave Israel from following the LORD, and made them sin a great sin.



(m) That is, God cut off the ten tribes, (<bcv=I Ki 12:16>Kg1 12:16</bcv>,<bcv=1Ki 12:20> Kg1 12:20).</bcv>

#BCV:2 Kings 17:24
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:24>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:24</verse></h3>


<page=821>And the king of Assyria brought [men] from Babylon, and from (n) Cuthah, and from Ava, and
from Hamath, and from Sepharvaim, and placed [them] in the cities of Samaria instead of the
children of Israel: and they possessed Samaria, and dwelt in the cities thereof.



(n) Of these people came the Samaritans, of which mention is so often made in the gospel, and with
whom the Jews would have nothing to do, (<bcv=John 4:9>Joh 4:9</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 17:25
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:25>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:25</verse></h3>

And [so] it was at the beginning of their dwelling there, [that] they (o) feared not the LORD:
therefore the LORD sent lions among them, which slew [some] of them.



(o) That is, they served him not: therefore, lest they should blaspheme him, as though there were no
God, because he chastised the Israelites, he shows his mighty power among them by this strange
punishment.
#BCV:2 Kings 17:27
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:27>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:27</verse></h3>

Then the king of Assyria commanded, saying, Carry thither one of the priests whom ye brought
from thence; and let them go and dwell there, and let him teach them the manner of the God (p) of
the land.



(p) That is, how to worship him: thus the wicked rather than losing their conveniences will change to
all religions.
#BCV:2 Kings 17:30
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:30>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:30</verse></h3>

And the men of Babylon made (q) Succothbenoth, and the men of Cuth made Nergal, and the men
of Hamath made Ashima,



(q) Meaning that every country served the idol that was most esteemed in the place to which they
came.
#BCV:2 Kings 17:33
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:33>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:33</verse></h3>

They (r) feared the LORD, and served their own gods, after the manner of the nations whom they
carried away from thence.



(r) That is, they had a certain knowledge of God, and feared him because of the punishment, but
they continued to be idolaters as do the papists who worship both God and idols: but this is not to
fear God, as appears in (<bcv=II Ki 17:34>Kg2 17:34</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 17:34
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:34>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:34</verse></h3>


<page=822>Unto this day they do after the former manners: they fear not the LORD, neither do they after (s)
their statutes, or after their ordinances, or after the law and commandment which the LORD
commanded the children of Jacob, whom he named Israel;



(s) He means by this the Israelites to whom God had given his commandments.
#BCV:2 Kings 17:41
<h3><verse=2 Kings 17:41>4 Kings (2 Kings) 17:41</verse></h3>

So these (t) nations feared the LORD, and served their graven images, both their children, and their
children's children: as did their fathers, so do they unto this day.



(t) That is, these strangers who were sent into Samaria by the Assyrians.

<page=823>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 18


#BCV:2 Kings 18:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 18:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 18:3</verse></h3>

And he did [that which was] (a) right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that David his father
did.



(a) Although they of Judah were given to idolatry and impiety, as they of Israel were, yet God for
the sake of his promise was merciful to the throne of David, and yet by his judgment toward the
other, provoked to repentance.
#BCV:2 Kings 18:4
<h3><verse=2 Kings 18:4>4 Kings (2 Kings) 18:4</verse></h3>

He removed the high places, and brake the images, and cut down the groves, and brake in pieces the
brasen serpent that Moses had made: for unto those days the children of Israel did burn incense to
it: and he called it (b) Nehushtan.



(b) That is "a piece of brass": thus he calls the serpent by contempt, which even though it was set up
by the word of God, and miracles were wrought by it, when it was used for idolatry this good king
destroyed it, not thinking it worthy to be called a serpent, but a piece of brass.
#BCV:2 Kings 18:8
<h3><verse=2 Kings 18:8>4 Kings (2 Kings) 18:8</verse></h3>

He smote the Philistines, [even] unto Gaza, and the borders thereof, (c) from the tower of the
watchmen to the fenced city.



(c) Read (<bcv=II Ki 17:9>Kg2 17:9</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 18:14
<h3><verse=2 Kings 18:14>4 Kings (2 Kings) 18:14</verse></h3>

And Hezekiah king of Judah sent to the king of Assyria to Lachish, saying, (d) I have offended;
return from me: that which thou puttest on me will I bear. And the king of Assyria appointed unto
Hezekiah king of Judah three hundred talents of silver and thirty talents of gold.



(d) As his zeal was before praised, so his weakness is here set forth, that no one should glory in
himself.
#BCV:2 Kings 18:17
<h3><verse=2 Kings 18:17>4 Kings (2 Kings) 18:17</verse></h3>

And the king of Assyria sent (e) Tartan and Rabsaris and Rabshakeh from Lachish to king Hezekiah
with a great host against Jerusalem. And they went up and came to Jerusalem. And when they were
come up, they came and stood by the conduit of the upper pool, which [is] in the highway of the
fuller's field.

<page=824>(e) After certain years, when Hezekiah ceased to send the tribute appointed by the king of the
Assyrians, he sent his captains and army against him.
#BCV:2 Kings 18:20
<h3><verse=2 Kings 18:20>4 Kings (2 Kings) 18:20</verse></h3>

Thou sayest, (but [they are but] vain words,) [I have] (f) counsel and strength for the war. Now on
whom dost thou trust, that thou rebellest against me?



(f) You think that words will serve to persuade your people, or to move my master.
#BCV:2 Kings 18:21
<h3><verse=2 Kings 18:21>4 Kings (2 Kings) 18:21</verse></h3>

Now, behold, thou trustest upon the staff of this bruised reed, [even] upon (g) Egypt, on which if a
man lean, it will go into his hand, and pierce it: so [is] Pharaoh king of Egypt unto all that trust on
him.



(g) Egypt will not only be unable to help you, but will be a detriment to you.
#BCV:2 Kings 18:22
<h3><verse=2 Kings 18:22>4 Kings (2 Kings) 18:22</verse></h3>

But if ye say unto me, We trust in the LORD our God: [is] not that he, whose high places and
whose altars Hezekiah hath (h) taken away, and hath said to Judah and Jerusalem, Ye shall worship
before this altar in Jerusalem?



(h) Thus the idolaters think that God's religion is destroyed, when superstition and idolatry are
reformed.
#BCV:2 Kings 18:23
<h3><verse=2 Kings 18:23>4 Kings (2 Kings) 18:23</verse></h3>

Now therefore, I pray thee, give (i) pledges to my lord the king of Assyria, and I will deliver thee two
thousand horses, if thou be able on thy part to set riders upon them.



(i) Meaning, that it was best for him to yield to the king of Assyria because his power was so small
that he did not have men to care for two thousand horses.
#BCV:2 Kings 18:25
<h3><verse=2 Kings 18:25>4 Kings (2 Kings) 18:25</verse></h3>

Am I now come up without the (k) LORD against this place to destroy it? The LORD said to me,
Go up against this land, and destroy it.



(k) The wicked always flatter themselves in their prosperity, that God favours them. Thus he speaks
to scare Hezekiah into thinking that by resisting him he would be resisting God.
#BCV:2 Kings 18:32
<h3><verse=2 Kings 18:32>4 Kings (2 Kings) 18:32</verse></h3>


<page=825>Until (l) I come and take you away to a land like your own land, a land of corn and wine, a land of
bread and vineyards, a land of oil olive and of honey, that ye may live, and not die: and hearken not
unto Hezekiah, when he persuadeth you, saying, The LORD will deliver us.



(l) He makes himself so sure, that he will not grant them a truce, unless they give themselves to him
to be led away as captives.
#BCV:2 Kings 18:35
<h3><verse=2 Kings 18:35>4 Kings (2 Kings) 18:35</verse></h3>

Who [are] they among all the gods of the countries, that have delivered their country out of mine
hand, that the (m) LORD should deliver Jerusalem out of mine hand?



(m) This is an execrable blasphemy against the true God, to make him equal with the idols of other
nations: therefore God sharply punished him.

<page=826>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 19


#BCV:2 Kings 19:2
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:2>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:2</verse></h3>

And he sent Eliakim, which [was] over the household, and Shebna the scribe, and the elders of the
priests, covered with sackcloth, (a) to Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz.



(a) To hear some new prophecy and to have comfort from him.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:3</verse></h3>

And they said unto him, Thus saith Hezekiah, This day [is] a day of trouble, and of rebuke, and
blasphemy: for the children are come to (b) the birth, and [there is] not strength to bring forth.



(b) The dangers are so great, that we can neither avenge this blasphemy, or help ourselves any more
than a woman in labour.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:4
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:4>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:4</verse></h3>

It may be the LORD thy God will hear all the words of Rabshakeh, whom the king of Assyria his
master hath sent to reproach the living God; and will reprove the words which the LORD thy God
hath heard: wherefore lift up [thy] prayer for the (c) remnant that are left.



(c) Meaning, for Jerusalem which only remained of all the cities of Judah.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:7
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:7>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:7</verse></h3>

Behold, I will send a blast (d) upon him, and he shall hear a rumour, and shall return to his own land;
and I will cause him to fall by the sword in his own land.



(d) The Lord can with one blast blow away all the strength of man, and turn it into dust.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:9
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:9>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:9</verse></h3>

And when (e) he heard say of Tirhakah king of Ethiopia, (f) Behold, he is come out to fight against
thee: he sent messengers again unto Hezekiah, saying,



(e) That is, Sennacherib.



(f) For the kings of Ethiopia and Egypt joined together against the king of Assyria because of his
oppression of other countries.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:10
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:10>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:10</verse></h3>

<page=827>Thus shall ye speak to Hezekiah king of Judah, saying, Let not thy (g) God in whom thou trustest
deceive thee, saying, Jerusalem shall not be delivered into the hand of the king of Assyria.



(g) The closer the wicked are to their destruction, the more they blaspheme.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:14
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:14>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:14</verse></h3>

And Hezekiah received the letter of the hand of the messengers, and read it: and Hezekiah went up
into the house of the LORD, and spread it before the (h) LORD.



(h) Before the Ark of the covenant.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:15
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:15>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:15</verse></h3>

And Hezekiah (i) prayed before the LORD, and said, O LORD God of Israel, which dwellest
[between] the cherubims, thou art the God, [even] thou alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth; thou
hast made heaven and earth.



(i) He shows what the true refuge and help is in all dangers, that is, to flee to the Lord by earnest

<h1>prayer.</h1>



#BCV:2 Kings 19:16
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:16>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:16</verse></h3>

LORD, (k) bow down thine ear, and hear: open, LORD, thine eyes, and see: and hear the words of
Sennacherib, which hath sent him to reproach the (l) living God.



(k) Show by effect that you will not allow your Name to be blasphemed.



(l) By this title he discerns God from all idols and false gods.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:19
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:19>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:19</verse></h3>

Now therefore, O LORD our God, I beseech thee, save thou us out of his hand, that all the (m)
kingdoms of the earth may know that thou [art] the LORD God, [even] thou only.



(m) He shows the reason the faithful desire God to deliver them: that is, that he may be glorified by
their deliverance.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:21
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:21>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:21</verse></h3>

This [is] the word that the LORD hath spoken concerning him; The (n) virgin the daughter of Zion
hath despised thee, [and] laughed thee to scorn; the daughter of Jerusalem hath shaken her head at
thee.



(n) Because as yet Jerusalem had not been taken by the enemy therefore he calls her virgin.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:22
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:22>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:22</verse></h3>

<page=828>Whom hast thou reproached and blasphemed? and against whom hast thou exalted [thy] voice, and
lifted up thine eyes on high? [even] (o) against the Holy [One] of Israel.



(o) God counts that as an injury done to him, and will avenge what is done to any of his saints.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:23
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:23>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:23</verse></h3>

By thy messengers thou hast reproached the Lord, and hast said, With the multitude of my chariots
I am come up to the height of the mountains, to the sides of Lebanon, and will cut down the tall
cedar trees thereof, [and] the choice fir trees thereof: and I will enter into the (p) lodgings of his
borders, [and into] the forest of his Carmel.



(p) Meaning Jerusalem, which Isaiah calls the height of his borders, that is, of Judah, (<bcv=Isa 37:24>Isa 37:24</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 19:25
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:25>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:25</verse></h3>

Hast thou not heard long ago [how] I have done it, [and] of ancient times that I have formed it? (q)
now have I brought it to pass, that thou shouldest be to lay waste fenced cities [into] ruinous heaps.



(q) He declares that as he is the author and beginning of his Church, he will never allow it to be
completely destroyed, as other cities and kingdoms.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:26
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:26>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:26</verse></h3>

Therefore their (r) inhabitants were of small power, they were dismayed and confounded; they were
[as] the grass of the field, and [as] the green herb, [as] the grass on the housetops, and [as corn]
blasted before it be grown up.



(r) Thus he describes the wicked, who flourish for a time, and later fade and decay like flowers.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:28
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:28>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:28</verse></h3>

Because thy rage against me and thy tumult is come up into mine ears, therefore I will put my (s)
hook in thy nose, and my bridle in thy lips, and I will turn thee back by the way by which thou
camest.



(s) I will bridle your rage, and turn you to and fro as it pleases me.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:29
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:29>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:29</verse></h3>

<page=829>And this [shall be] a (t) sign unto thee, Ye shall eat this year such things as grow of themselves, and
in the second year that which springeth of the same; and in the third year sow ye, and reap, and
plant vineyards, and eat the fruits thereof.



(t) God not only promised him the victory, but gives him a sign to confirm his faith.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:30
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:30>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:30</verse></h3>

And the remnant that is escaped of the house of Judah shall yet again take (u) root downward, and
bear fruit upward.



(u) The Lord will multiply in great number that small remnant of Judah that escaped.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:31
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:31>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:31</verse></h3>

For out of Jerusalem shall go forth a remnant, and they that escape out of mount Zion: the (x) zeal
of the LORD [of hosts] shall do this.



(x) The love, that God has for his Church will overcome the counsels and enterprises of men.
#BCV:2 Kings 19:37
<h3><verse=2 Kings 19:37>4 Kings (2 Kings) 19:37</verse></h3>

And it came to pass, as he was worshipping in the house of Nisroch his god, that Adrammelech and
Sharezer his sons (y) smote him with the sword: and they escaped into the land of Armenia. And
Esarhaddon his son reigned in his stead.



(y) This was the just judgment of God for his blasphemy, that he would be slain before the idol that
he preferred to the living God, and by those who should by nature have needed his defence.

<page=830>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 20


#BCV:2 Kings 20:2
<h3><verse=2 Kings 20:2>4 Kings (2 Kings) 20:2</verse></h3>

Then he turned his face to the (a) wall, and prayed unto the LORD, saying,



(a) That his mind might not be troubled.
#BCV:2 Kings 20:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 20:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 20:3</verse></h3>

I beseech thee, O LORD, remember now how I have walked before thee in truth and with a (b)
perfect heart, and have done [that which is] good in thy sight. And Hezekiah (c) wept sore.



(b) Meaning, without all hypocrisy.



(c) Not so much for his own death, as for fear that idolatry would be restored which he had
destroyed, and so God's Name be dishonoured.
#BCV:2 Kings 20:5
<h3><verse=2 Kings 20:5>4 Kings (2 Kings) 20:5</verse></h3>

Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the LORD, the God of David
thy father, I have heard thy (d) prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee: on the third day
thou shalt go up unto the (e) house of the LORD.



(d) Because of his true repentance and prayer, God turned away his wrath.



(e) To give thanks for your deliverance.
#BCV:2 Kings 20:7
<h3><verse=2 Kings 20:7>4 Kings (2 Kings) 20:7</verse></h3>

And Isaiah said, Take a (f) lump of figs. And they took and laid [it] on the boil, and he recovered.



(f) He declares that though God can heal without other medicines, he will not have these inferior
means contemned.
#BCV:2 Kings 20:10
<h3><verse=2 Kings 20:10>4 Kings (2 Kings) 20:10</verse></h3>

And Hezekiah answered, It is a light thing for the shadow to go down ten degrees: nay, but let the
shadow (g) return backward ten degrees.



(g) Let the sun go so many degrees back, that the hours may be fewer in the king's dial.
#BCV:2 Kings 20:11
<h3><verse=2 Kings 20:11>4 Kings (2 Kings) 20:11</verse></h3>

<page=831>And Isaiah the prophet cried unto the LORD: and he brought the shadow ten degrees backward, by
which it had gone down in the (h) dial of Ahaz.



(h) Which was set at the top of the stairs that Ahaz had made.
#BCV:2 Kings 20:12
<h3><verse=2 Kings 20:12>4 Kings (2 Kings) 20:12</verse></h3>

At that time Berodachbaladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent letters and a (i) present
unto Hezekiah: for he had heard that Hezekiah had been sick.



(i) Moved by the favour that God showed to Hezekiah, and also because he had declared himself an
enemy of Sennacherib who was now destroyed.
#BCV:2 Kings 20:13
<h3><verse=2 Kings 20:13>4 Kings (2 Kings) 20:13</verse></h3>

And Hezekiah hearkened unto them, and shewed them all the house of his precious things, the
silver, and the gold, and the spices, and the precious ointment, and [all] the house of his armour, and
all that was found in his treasures: there was nothing in his house, nor in all his (k) dominion, that
Hezekiah shewed them not.



(k) Being moved by ambition and vain glory, and also because he seemed to rejoice in the friendship
of him who was God's enemy and an infidel.
#BCV:2 Kings 20:19
<h3><verse=2 Kings 20:19>4 Kings (2 Kings) 20:19</verse></h3>

Then said Hezekiah unto Isaiah, Good [is] the word of the LORD which thou hast (l) spoken. And
he said, [Is it] not [good], if (m) peace and truth be in my days?



(l) He acknowledges Isaiah to be the true prophet of God and therefore humbles himself to his
word.



(m) Seeing that God has shown me this favour to grant me quietness during my life: for he was
afraid lest the enemies would have had opportunity to rejoice if the Church had decayed in his time,
because he had restored religion.

<page=832>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 21


#BCV:2 Kings 21:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 21:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 21:6</verse></h3>

And he made his son (a) pass through the fire, and observed times, and used enchantments, and
dealt with familiar spirits and wizards: he wrought much wickedness in the sight of the LORD, to
provoke [him] to anger.



(a) Read (<bcv=II Ki 16:3>Kg2 16:3</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 21:8
<h3><verse=2 Kings 21:8>4 Kings (2 Kings) 21:8</verse></h3>

Neither will I make the feet of Israel move any more out of the land which I gave their fathers; only
if they will (b) observe to do according to all that I have commanded them, and according to all the
law that my servant Moses commanded them.



(b) Therefore seeing they did not obey the commandment of God, they were justly cast from the
land which they had only on condition.
#BCV:2 Kings 21:12
<h3><verse=2 Kings 21:12>4 Kings (2 Kings) 21:12</verse></h3>

Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Behold, I [am] bringing [such] evil upon Jerusalem
and Judah, that whosoever heareth of it, both his ears shall (c) tingle.



(c) Meaning, that whoever hears of this great plague, will be astonished.
#BCV:2 Kings 21:13
<h3><verse=2 Kings 21:13>4 Kings (2 Kings) 21:13</verse></h3>

And I will stretch over Jerusalem the line (d) of Samaria, and the plummet of the house of Ahab:
and I will wipe Jerusalem as [a man] wipeth a dish, wiping [it], and turning [it] upside down.



(d) As I have destroyed Samaria and the house of Ahab so will I destroy Judah.
#BCV:2 Kings 21:14
<h3><verse=2 Kings 21:14>4 Kings (2 Kings) 21:14</verse></h3>

And I will forsake the (e) remnant of mine inheritance, and deliver them into the hand of their
enemies; and they shall become a prey and a spoil to all their enemies;



(e) Meaning, Judah and Benjamin, which were the only ones left of the rest of the tribes.
#BCV:2 Kings 21:16
<h3><verse=2 Kings 21:16>4 Kings (2 Kings) 21:16</verse></h3>

<page=833>Moreover Manasseh shed (s) innocent blood very much, till he had filled Jerusalem from one end to
another; beside his sin wherewith he made Judah to sin, in doing [that which was] evil in the sight of
the LORD.



(s) The Hebrews write that he slew Isaiah the prophet, who was his father-in-law.
#BCV:2 Kings 21:22
<h3><verse=2 Kings 21:22>4 Kings (2 Kings) 21:22</verse></h3>

And he forsook the LORD God of his fathers, and walked not in the (g) way of the LORD.



(g) That is, according to his commandment.

<page=834>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 22


#BCV:2 Kings 22:2
<h3><verse=2 Kings 22:2>4 Kings (2 Kings) 22:2</verse></h3>

And he did [that which was] right in the sight of the LORD, and (a) walked in all the way of David
his father, and turned not aside to the right hand or to the left.



(a) His zeal was prophesied of, and his name mentioned by Iddo the prophet, more than 300 years
before, (<bcv=I Ki 13:2>Kg1 13:2</bcv>) and being but eight years old, he sought the God of his father David, (<bcv=2Ch 34:2>Ch2 34:3</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 22:4
<h3><verse=2 Kings 22:4>4 Kings (2 Kings) 22:4</verse></h3>

Go up to Hilkiah the high priest, that he may sum the silver which is brought into the house of the
LORD, which the keepers of the (b) door have gathered of the people:



(b) Certain of the priests were appointed to this office, as in (<bcv=II Ki 12:9>Kg2 12:9</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 22:5
<h3><verse=2 Kings 22:5>4 Kings (2 Kings) 22:5</verse></h3>

And let (c) them deliver it into the hand of the doers of the work, that have the oversight of the
house of the LORD: and let them give it to the doers of the work which [is] in the house of the
LORD, to repair the breaches of the house,



(c) From the time of Joash for the space of 244 years, the temple remained without repairs through
the negligence of the priests. This shows that they who have a charge and do not execute it should
have it taken from them.
#BCV:2 Kings 22:7
<h3><verse=2 Kings 22:7>4 Kings (2 Kings) 22:7</verse></h3>

Howbeit there was no reckoning made with them of the money that was delivered into their hand,
because they dealt (d) faithfully.



(d) So God provided him with faithful servants, seeing he went about so zealously to set forth the
work of God.
#BCV:2 Kings 22:8
<h3><verse=2 Kings 22:8>4 Kings (2 Kings) 22:8</verse></h3>

And Hilkiah the high priest said unto Shaphan the scribe, I have found the (e) book of the law in
the house of the LORD. And Hilkiah gave the book to Shaphan, and he read it.



(e) This was the copy that Moses left them, as it appears in (<bcv=2Ch 34:14>Ch2 34:14</bcv>), which either by the
negligence of the priests had been lost, or else by the wickedness of idolatrous kings had been
abolished.
#BCV:2 Kings 22:13
<h3><verse=2 Kings 22:13>4 Kings (2 Kings) 22:13</verse></h3>

<page=835>Go ye, (f) enquire of the LORD for me, and for the people, and for all Judah, concerning the words
of this book that is found: for great [is] the wrath of the LORD that is kindled against us, because
our fathers have not hearkened unto the words of this book, to do according unto all that which is
written concerning us.



(f) Meaning, to some prophet to whom God reveals the knowledge of things, as in (<bcv=Jer 21:8>Jer 21:8</bcv>), though
at other times they enquired the Lord by Urim and Thummim.
#BCV:2 Kings 22:14
<h3><verse=2 Kings 22:14>4 Kings (2 Kings) 22:14</verse></h3>

So Hilkiah the priest, and Ahikam, and Achbor, and Shaphan, and Asahiah, went unto Huldah the
prophetess, the wife of Shallum the son of Tikvah, the son of Harhas, keeper of the wardrobe;



(now she dwelt in Jerusalem in the (g) college;) and they communed with her.



(g) Or the house of doctrine, which was near the temple, and where the learned assembled to search
the scriptures and the doctrine of the prophets.
#BCV:2 Kings 22:17
<h3><verse=2 Kings 22:17>4 Kings (2 Kings) 22:17</verse></h3>

Because they have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, that they might provoke
me to anger with all the (h) works of their hands; therefore my wrath shall be kindled against this
place, and shall not be quenched.



(h) The works of man's hand here signifies all that man invents beside the word of God, which are
abominable in God's service.
#BCV:2 Kings 22:19
<h3><verse=2 Kings 22:19>4 Kings (2 Kings) 22:19</verse></h3>

Because thine heart was (i) tender, and thou hast humbled thyself before the LORD, when thou
heardest what I spake against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, that they should become
a desolation and a curse, and hast rent thy clothes, and wept before me; I also have heard [thee],
saith the LORD.



(i) Meaning, that he repented as they that do not repent are said to harden their heart, (<bcv=Psa 95:8>Psa 95:8</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 22:20
<h3><verse=2 Kings 22:20>4 Kings (2 Kings) 22:20</verse></h3>

Behold therefore, I will gather thee unto thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered into thy grave in (k)
peace; and thine eyes shall not see all the evil which I will bring upon this place. And they brought
the king word again.

<page=836>(k) Upon which we may gather that the anger of God is ready against the wicked when God takes
his servants out of this world.

<page=837>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 23


#BCV:2 Kings 23:1
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:1>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:1</verse></h3>

And the king (a) sent, and they gathered unto him all the elders of Judah and of Jerusalem.



(a) Because he saw the great plagues of God that were threatened, he knew no more speedy way to
avoid them, than to turn to God by repentance which cannot come but from faith, and faith by
hearing the word of God.
#BCV:2 Kings 23:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:3</verse></h3>

And the king stood by (b) a pillar, and made a (c) covenant before the LORD, to walk after the
LORD, and to keep his commandments and his testimonies and his statutes with all [their] heart and
all [their] soul, to perform the words of this covenant that were written in this book. And all the
people stood to the covenant.



(b) Where the king had his place, (<bcv=II Ki 11:14>Kg2 11:14</bcv>).



(c) As Joshua did, (<bcv=Jos 24:22>Jos 24:22</bcv>,<bcv=Jos 24:25> Jos 24:25</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 23:4
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:4>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:4</verse></h3>

And the king commanded Hilkiah the high priest, and the (d) priests of the second order, and the
keepers of the door, to bring forth out of the temple of the LORD all the vessels that were made
for Baal, and for the grove, and for all the host of heaven: and he burned them without Jerusalem in
the fields of Kidron, and carried (e) the ashes of them unto Bethel.



(d) Meaning, they who were next in dignity to the high priest.



(e) In contempt of the altar Jeroboam had built there to sacrifice to his calves.
#BCV:2 Kings 23:5
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:5>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:5</verse></h3>

And he put down the (f) idolatrous priests, whom the kings of Judah had ordained to burn incense
in the high places in the cities of Judah, and in the places round about Jerusalem; them also that
burned incense unto Baal, to the sun, and to the moon, and to the planets, and to all the host of
heaven.



(f) Or Chemarims, meaning the priests of Baal who were called Chemarims either because they wore
black garments or else were smoked with burning incense to idols.
#BCV:2 Kings 23:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:6</verse></h3>

<page=838>And he brought out the (g) grove from the house of the LORD, without Jerusalem, unto the brook
Kidron, and burned it at the brook Kidron, and stamped [it] small to powder, and cast the powder
thereof upon the (h) graves of the children of the people.



(g) He removed the grove which idolaters for devotion had planted near the temple, contrary to the
commandment of the Lord, (<bcv=Deu 16:21>Deu 16:21</bcv>), or as some read, the similitude of a grove which was hung
in the temple.



(h) Both in contempt of the idols and reproach of them who had worshipped them in their lives.
#BCV:2 Kings 23:9
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:9>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:9</verse></h3>

Nevertheless the priests of the high places (i) came not up to the altar of the LORD in Jerusalem,
but they did eat of the unleavened bread among their brethren.



(i) Because they who had forsaken the Lord to serve idols, were not fit to minister in the service of
the Lord for the instruction of others.
#BCV:2 Kings 23:10
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:10>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:10</verse></h3>

And he defiled (k) Topheth, which [is] in the valley of the children of Hinnom, that no man might
make his son or his daughter to pass through the fire to Molech.



(k) Which was a valley near to Jerusalem, and signifies a tabret because they smote on the tabret
while their children were burning, that their cry should not be heard, (<bcv=Lev 18:21>Lev 18:21</bcv>), after which Josiah
commanded trash to be cast in contempt of it.
#BCV:2 Kings 23:11
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:11>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:11</verse></h3>

And he took away the (l) horses that the kings of Judah had given to the sun, at the entering in of
the house of the LORD, by the chamber of Nathanmelech the chamberlain, which [was] in the
suburbs, and burned the chariots of the sun with fire.



(l) The idolatrous kings had dedicated horses and chariots to the sun, either to carry about the image
of it as the heathen did, or else to sacrifice them as a most agreeable sacrifice.
#BCV:2 Kings 23:13
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:13>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:13</verse></h3>

And the high places that [were] before Jerusalem, which [were] on the right hand of the (m) mount
of corruption, which Solomon the king of Israel had builded for Ashtoreth the abomination of the
Zidonians, and for Chemosh the abomination of the Moabites, and for Milcom the abomination of
the children of Ammon, did the king defile.



(m) That was the mount of olives, so called because it was full of idols.
#BCV:2 Kings 23:15
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:15>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:15</verse></h3>

<page=839>Moreover (n) the altar that [was] at Bethel, [and] the high place which Jeroboam the son of Nebat,
who made Israel to sin, had made, both that altar and the high place he brake down, and burned the
high place, [and] stamped [it] small to powder, and burned the grove.



(n) Which Jeroboam had built in Israel, (<bcv=I Ki 12:28-29>Kg1 12:28-29</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 23:16
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:16>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:16</verse></h3>

And as Josiah turned himself, he spied the sepulchres that [were] there in the mount, and sent, and
took the bones out of the sepulchres, and burned [them] upon the altar, and polluted it, according
to the word of the LORD which the (o) man of God proclaimed, who proclaimed these words.



(o) According to the prophecy of Iddo, (<bcv=I Ki 13:2>Kg1 13:2</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 23:18
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:18>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:18</verse></h3>

And he said, Let him alone; let no man move his bones. So they let his bones alone, with the bones
of the (p) prophet that came out of Samaria.



(p) Meaning, the prophet who came after him, and caused him to eat contrary to the command of
the Lord, who were both buried in the same grave, (<bcv=I Ki 13:31>Kg1 13:31</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 23:22
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:22>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:22</verse></h3>

Surely there was not holden (q) such a passover from the days of the judges that judged Israel, nor
in all the days of the kings of Israel, nor of the kings of Judah;



(q) For the multitude and zeal of the people with the great preparation.
#BCV:2 Kings 23:26
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:26>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:26</verse></h3>

Notwithstanding the LORD turned not from the (r) fierceness of his great wrath, wherewith his
anger was kindled against Judah, because of all the provocations that Manasseh had provoked him
withal.



(r) Because of the wicked heart of the people, who would not turn to him by repentance.
#BCV:2 Kings 23:29
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:29>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:29</verse></h3>

In his days Pharaohnechoh king of Egypt went up against the king of Assyria to the river Euphrates:
and king Josiah (s) went against him; and he slew him at Megiddo, when he had seen him.

<page=840>(s) Because Pharaoh passed through his country, he was afraid Pharaoh would have done him harm
and would have stopped him, yet he did not consult the Lord, and therefore was slain.
#BCV:2 Kings 23:32
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:32>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:32</verse></h3>

And he did [that which was] evil in the sight of the LORD, according to all that his (t) fathers had
done.



(t) Meaning, the wicked kings before.
#BCV:2 Kings 23:33
<h3><verse=2 Kings 23:33>4 Kings (2 Kings) 23:33</verse></h3>

And Pharaohnechoh put him in bands (u) at Riblah in the land of Hamath, that he might not reign
in Jerusalem; and put the land to a tribute of an hundred talents of silver, and a talent of gold.

(u) Which was Antiochia in Syria, also called Hamath.

<page=841>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 24


#BCV:2 Kings 24:1
<h3><verse=2 Kings 24:1>4 Kings (2 Kings) 24:1</verse></h3>

In his (a) days Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up, and Jehoiakim became his servant three
years: then he turned and rebelled against him.



(a) In the end of the third year of his reign and in the beginning of the fourth, (<bcv=Dan 1:1>Dan 1:1</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 24:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 24:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 24:3</verse></h3>

Surely at the (b) commandment of the LORD came [this] upon Judah, to remove [them] out of his
sight, for the sins of Manasseh, according to all that he did;



(b) Though God used these wicked tyrants to execute his just judgments, they are not to be excused,
for they proceeded from ambition and malice.
#BCV:2 Kings 24:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 24:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 24:6</verse></h3>

So Jehoiakim (c) slept with his fathers: and Jehoiachin his son reigned in his stead.



(c) Not that he was buried with his fathers, but he died in the way, as they let him prisoner toward
Babylon, see (<bcv=Jer 22:19>Jer 22:19</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 24:12
<h3><verse=2 Kings 24:12>4 Kings (2 Kings) 24:12</verse></h3>

And Jehoiachin the king of Judah (d) went out to the king of Babylon, he, and his mother, and his
servants, and his princes, and his officers: and the king of Babylon took him in the eighth year (e) of
his reign.



(d) That is, yielded himself to him by the counsel of Jeremiah.



(e) In the reign of the king of Babylon.
#BCV:2 Kings 24:20
<h3><verse=2 Kings 24:20>4 Kings (2 Kings) 24:20</verse></h3>

For through the anger of the LORD it came to pass in Jerusalem and Judah, until he had cast them
out from his (f) presence, that Zedekiah rebelled against the king of Babylon.



(f) Out of Jerusalem and Judah into Babylon.

<page=842>4 Kings (2 Kings) Chapter 25


#BCV:2 Kings 25:1
<h3><verse=2 Kings 25:1>4 Kings (2 Kings) 25:1</verse></h3>

And it came to pass in the (a) ninth year of his reign, in the (b) tenth month, in the tenth [day] of
the month, [that] Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came, he, and all his host, against Jerusalem, and
pitched against it; and they built forts against it round about.



(a) That is, of Zedekiah.



(b) Which the Hebrews call <transhebrew>Teber,<english> and it contains part of December and part of January.

#BCV:2 Kings 25:3
<h3><verse=2 Kings 25:3>4 Kings (2 Kings) 25:3</verse></h3>

And on the ninth [day] of the [fourth] month the famine (c) prevailed in the city, and there was no
bread for the people of the land.



(c) So much that the mothers ate their children, (<bcv=Lam 4:10>Lam 4:10</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 25:4
<h3><verse=2 Kings 25:4>4 Kings (2 Kings) 25:4</verse></h3>

And the city was broken up, and all the men of war [fled] by night by the way of the (d) gate
between two walls, which [is] by the king's garden: (now the Chaldees [were] against the city round
about:) and [the king] went the way toward the plain.



(d) Which was a back door, or some secret gate to leave by.
#BCV:2 Kings 25:6
<h3><verse=2 Kings 25:6>4 Kings (2 Kings) 25:6</verse></h3>

So they took the king, and brought him up to the king of Babylon to Riblah; and they (e) gave
judgment upon him.



(e) Or, condemned him for his perjury and treason, (<bcv=2Ch 36:13>Ch2 36:13</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 25:8
<h3><verse=2 Kings 25:8>4 Kings (2 Kings) 25:8</verse></h3>

And in the fifth month, on the (f) seventh [day] of the month, which [is] the nineteenth year of king
Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, came Nebuzaradan, captain of the guard, a servant of the king
of Babylon, unto Jerusalem:



(f) Jeremiah writes in (<bcv=Jer 52:12>Jer 52:12</bcv>) the tenth day, because the fire continued from the seventh day to the
tenth.
#BCV:2 Kings 25:11
<h3><verse=2 Kings 25:11>4 Kings (2 Kings) 25:11</verse></h3>

<page=843>Now the rest of the people [that were] left in the city, and the fugitives that (g) fell away to the king
of Babylon, with the remnant of the multitude, did Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard carry
away.



(g) While the siege endured.
#BCV:2 Kings 25:14
<h3><verse=2 Kings 25:14>4 Kings (2 Kings) 25:14</verse></h3>

And the (h) pots, and the shovels, and the snuffers, and the spoons, and all the vessels of brass
wherewith they ministered, took they away.



(h) Of these read (<bcv=Exo 27:3>Exo 27:3</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Kings 25:18
<h3><verse=2 Kings 25:18>4 Kings (2 Kings) 25:18</verse></h3>

And the captain of the guard took Seraiah the chief priest, and Zephaniah the (i) second priest, and
the three keepers of the door:



(i) That is, one appointed to act in the place of the high priest, if he were sick or otherwise detained.
#BCV:2 Kings 25:19
<h3><verse=2 Kings 25:19>4 Kings (2 Kings) 25:19</verse></h3>

And out of the city he took an officer that was set over the men of war, and (k) five men of them
that were in the king's presence, which were found in the city, and the principal scribe of the host,
which mustered the people of the land, and threescore men of the people of the land [that were]
found in the city:



(k) Jeremiah makes mention of seven but here he speaks of those who were the chiefest.
#BCV:2 Kings 25:24
<h3><verse=2 Kings 25:24>4 Kings (2 Kings) 25:24</verse></h3>

And Gedaliah (l) sware to them, and to their men, and said unto them, Fear not to be the servants
of the Chaldees: dwell in the land, and serve the king of Babylon; and it shall be well with you.



(l) That is, he exhorted them in the Name of the Lord, according to Jeremiah's counsel, to submit
themselves to Nebuchadnezzar, seeing it was the revealed will of the Lord.
#BCV:2 Kings 25:26
<h3><verse=2 Kings 25:26>4 Kings (2 Kings) 25:26</verse></h3>

And all the people, both small and great, and the captains of the armies, arose, and came to (m)
Egypt: for they were afraid of the Chaldees.



(m) Contrary to Jeremiah's counsel in Jeremiah 40-42.
#BCV:2 Kings 25:27
<h3><verse=2 Kings 25:27>4 Kings (2 Kings) 25:27</verse></h3>


<page=844>And it came to pass in the seven and thirtieth year of the captivity of (n) Jehoiachin king of Judah,
in the twelfth month, on the seven and twentieth [day] of the month, [that] Evilmerodach king of
Babylon in the year that he began to reign did lift up the head of Jehoiachin king of Judah out of
prison;



(n) This long were he, his wife and his children in Babylon, whom Nebuchadnezzar's son after his
father's death preferred to honour: thus by God's providence the seed of David was preserved even
to Christ.
#BCV:2 Kings 25:30
<h3><verse=2 Kings 25:30>4 Kings (2 Kings) 25:30</verse></h3>

And his (o) allowance [was] a continual allowance given him of the king, a daily rate for every day, all
the days of his life.



(o) Meaning, that he had standing in the court.

<h1>1 Chronicles</h1>


<h2>1 Chronicles 1</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 1:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 1:1>1 Chronicles 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=845>Adam, (a) Sheth, Enosh,

The Argument - The laws comprehend both these books in one, which the Grecians because of the
length, divide into two: and they are called Chronicles, because they note briefly the history from
Adam to the return from their captivity in Babylon. But these are not the books of Chronicles
which are mentioned in the books of the kings of Judah and Israel, which set forth the story of
both kingdoms, and later perished in the captivity, but an abridgement of the same, and were
gathered by Ezra, as the Jews write after their return from Babylon. This first book contains a brief
rehearsal of the children of Adam to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and the twelve patriarchs, chiefly of
Judah, and the reign of David, because Christ came from him according to the flesh. Therefore it
sets forth more amply his acts both concerning civil government, and also the administration and
care of things concerning religion, for the good success of which he rejoices and gives thanks to the
Lord.



(a) Meaning, that Seth was Adam's son, and Enoch was Seth's son.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 1:4
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 1:4>1 Chronicles 1:4</verse></h3>



Noah, (b) Shem, Ham, and Japheth.



(b) It would have been sufficient to have named Shem of whom came Abraham and David, but
because the world was restored by these three, mention is also made of Ham and Japheth.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 1:10
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 1:10>1 Chronicles 1:10</verse></h3>



And Cush begat (c) Nimrod: he began to be mighty upon the earth.



(c) Who first lifted himself above others.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 1:17
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 1:17>1 Chronicles 1:17</verse></h3>



The sons of Shem; Elam, and Asshur, and Arphaxad, and Lud, and (d) Aram, and Uz, and Hul, and
Gether, and Meshech.



(d) Of whom came the Syrians, and therefore they are called Amramites throughout all scripture.

#BCV:1 Chronicles 1:18
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 1:18>1 Chronicles 1:18</verse></h3>


And Arphaxad begat Shelah, and Shelah begat (e) Eber.



(e) Of him came the Hebrews who were later called Israelites of Israel, who was Jacob and Jews of
Judah because of the excellency of that tribe.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 1:24
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 1:24>1 Chronicles 1:24</verse></h3>




(f) Shem, (g) Arphaxad, Shelah,



(f) He repeats Shem again because he would come to the stock of Abraham.



(g) Who came from Shem, and of him Shelah.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 1:32
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 1:32>1 Chronicles 1:32</verse></h3>



Now the sons of Keturah, Abraham's (h) concubine: she bare Zimran, and Jokshan, and Medan, and
Midian, and Ishbak, and Shuah. And the sons of Jokshan; Sheba, and Dedan.



(h) Read (<bcv=Gen 25:4>Gen 25:4</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 1:35
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 1:35>1 Chronicles 1:35</verse></h3>



The sons of Esau; (i) Eliphaz, Reuel, and Jeush, and Jaalam, and Korah.



(i) These were born from three different mothers, read (<bcv=Gen 36:4>Gen 36:4</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 1:36
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 1:36>1 Chronicles 1:36</verse></h3>



The sons of Eliphaz; Teman, and Omar, Zephi, and Gatam, Kenaz, and (k) Timna, and Amalek.



(k) Which was Eliphaz's concubine, read (<bcv=Gen 36:12>Gen 36:12</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 1:38
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 1:38>1 Chronicles 1:38</verse></h3>



And the sons of (l) Seir; Lotan, and Shobal, and Zibeon, and Anah, and Dishon, and Ezer, and
Dishan.



(l) He is also called Seir the Horite, who inhabited mount Seir, (<bcv=Gen 36:20>Gen 36:20</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 1:43
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 1:43>1 Chronicles 1:43</verse></h3>



Now these [are] the (m) kings that reigned in the land of Edom before [any] king reigned over the
children of Israel; Bela the son of Beor: and the name of his city [was] Dinhabah.

<page=847>(m) He makes mention of the kings that came from Esau according to God's promise made to


Abraham concerning him, that kings would come from him. These eight kings reigned one after
another in Idumea to the time of David who conquered their country.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 1:44
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 1:44>1 Chronicles 1:44</verse></h3>



And when Bela was dead, Jobab the son of Zerah of (n) Bozrah reigned in his stead.



(n) Which was the principal city of the Edomites.

<h2>1 Chronicles 2</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 2:3
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 2:3>1 Chronicles 2:3</verse></h3>

<page=848>The sons of (a) Judah; Er, and Onan, and Shelah: [which] three were born unto him of the daughter
of Shua the Canaanitess. And Er, the firstborn of Judah, was evil in the sight of the LORD; and he
slew him.



(a) Though Judah was not Jacob's eldest son, yet he first begins with him, because he would come to
the genealogy of David, of whom came Christ.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 2:6
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 2:6>1 Chronicles 2:6</verse></h3>



And the sons of Zerah; Zimri, and (b) Ethan, and Heman, and Calcol, and Dara: five of them in all.



(b) Of these read (<bcv=I Ki 4:31>Kg1 4:31</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 2:9
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 2:9>1 Chronicles 2:9</verse></h3>



The sons also of Hezron, that were born unto him; Jerahmeel, and (c) Ram, and Chelubai.



(c) Whom Matthew calls Aram, (<bcv=Mat 1:3>Mat 1:3</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 2:10
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 2:10>1 Chronicles 2:10</verse></h3>



And Ram begat Amminadab; and Amminadab begat Nahshon, (d) prince of the children of Judah;



(d) That is, chief of the family.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 2:18
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 2:18>1 Chronicles 2:18</verse></h3>



And (e) Caleb the son of Hezron begat [children] of Azubah [his] wife, and of Jerioth: her sons [are]
these; Jesher, and Shobab, and Ardon.



(e) Who was called Chelubai the son of Hezron, (<bcv=1Ch 2:9>Ch1 2:9</bcv>).

#BCV:1 Chronicles 2:21
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 2:21>1 Chronicles 2:21</verse></h3>



And afterward Hezron went in to the daughter of Machir the father of (f) Gilead, whom he married
when he [was] threescore years old; and she bare him Segub.



(f) Who was prince of mount Gilead, (<bcv=Num 32:40>Num 32:40</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 2:23
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 2:23>1 Chronicles 2:23</verse></h3>

<page=849>And he took Geshur, and Aram, with the towns of Jair, (g) from them, with Kenath, and the towns
thereof, [even] threescore cities. All these [belonged to] the sons of Machir the father of Gilead.



(g) That is, the Geshurites and Syrians took the towns from Jair's children.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 2:24
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 2:24>1 Chronicles 2:24</verse></h3>



And after that Hezron was dead in (h) Calebephratah, then Abiah Hezron's wife bare him Ashur the



(i) father of Tekoa.



(h) Which was a town named for the husband and wife, also called Bethlehem Ephratah.



(i) Meaning, the chief and prince.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 2:31
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 2:31>1 Chronicles 2:31</verse></h3>



And the sons of Appaim; Ishi. And the sons of Ishi; Sheshan. And the children of Sheshan; (k)
Ahlai.



(k) Who died while his father was alive, and therefore it is said in (<bcv=1Ch 2:34>Ch1 2:34</bcv>) that Sheshan had no
sons.

#BCV:1 Chronicles 2:42
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 2:42>1 Chronicles 2:42</verse></h3>



Now the sons of Caleb the brother of Jerahmeel [were], Mesha his firstborn, which was the (l)
father of Ziph; and the sons of Mareshah the father of Hebron.



(l) That is, the chief governor or prince of the Ziphims, because the prince should have a fatherly
care and affection for his people.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 2:46
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 2:46>1 Chronicles 2:46</verse></h3>



And Ephah, Caleb's (m) concubine, bare Haran, and Moza, and Gazez: and Haran begat Gazez.



(m) The difference between the wife and the concubine was that the wife was taken with a ceremony
of marriage and her children inherited, while the concubine had no marriage ceremony, neither did
her children inherit, but had a portion of goods or money given to them.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 2:54
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 2:54>1 Chronicles 2:54</verse></h3>



The sons of Salma; Bethlehem, and the Netophathites, Ataroth, the (n) house of Joab, and half of
the Manahethites, the Zorites.



(n) The chief and principle of the house of Joab.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 2:55
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 2:55>1 Chronicles 2:55</verse></h3>

<page=850>And the families of the (o) scribes which dwelt at Jabez; the Tirathites, the Shimeathites, [and]
Suchathites. These [are] the (p) Kenites that came of Hemath, the father of the house of Rechab.



(o) Who were men learned and expert in the law.



(p) Read (<bcv=Num 10:29>Num 10:29</bcv>; Jdg 1:16).

<h2>1 Chronicles 3</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 3:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 3:1>1 Chronicles 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=851>Now these were the sons of (a) David, which were born unto him in Hebron; the firstborn Amnon,
of Ahinoam the Jezreelitess; the second (b) Daniel, of Abigail the Carmelitess:



(a) He returns to the genealogy of David, to show that Christ came from his stock.



(b) Who in (<bcv=II Sa 3:3>Sa2 3:3</bcv>) is called Chileab, born of her that was Nabal's wife the Carmelite.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 3:5
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 3:5>1 Chronicles 3:5</verse></h3>



And these were born unto him in Jerusalem; Shimea, and Shobab, and Nathan, and Solomon, four,
of (c) Bathshua the daughter of Ammiel:



(c) Called also Bathsheba the daughter of Eliam: for they gave them various names.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 3:6
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 3:6>1 Chronicles 3:6</verse></h3>



Ibhar also, and (d) Elishama, and Eliphelet,



(d) Elishama, or Elishua, (<bcv=II Sa 5:15>Sa2 5:15</bcv>) and Eliphelet died, and David named those sons who were born
next by the same names; in the book of kings his living children are mentioned and here both they
that were alive and dead.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 3:15
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 3:15>1 Chronicles 3:15</verse></h3>



And the sons of Josiah [were], the (e) firstborn Johanan, the second Jehoiakim, the third Zedekiah,
the fourth Shallum.



(e) So called because he was preferred for the royal dignity before his brother Jehoiakim who was the
elder.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 3:19
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 3:19>1 Chronicles 3:19</verse></h3>



And the sons of Pedaiah [were], (f) Zerubbabel, and Shimei: and the sons of Zerubbabel;
Meshullam, and Hananiah, and Shelomith their sister:



(f) Matthew says that Zerubbabel was the son of Shealtiel, meaning that he was his nephew
according to the Hebrew speech: for he was Pedaiah's son.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 3:22
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 3:22>1 Chronicles 3:22</verse></h3>

<page=852>And the sons of Shechaniah; Shemaiah: and the sons of Shemaiah; Hattush, and Igeal, and Bariah,
and Neariah, and Shaphat, (g) six.



(g) So that Shemaiah was Shechaniah's natural son, and the other five his nephews and in all there
were six.

<h2>1 Chronicles 4</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 4:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 4:1>1 Chronicles 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=853>The (a) sons of Judah; Pharez, Hezron, and Carmi, and Hur, and Shobal.

(a) Meaning, they came from Judah, as nephews and kinsmen: for only Pharez was his natural son.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 4:4
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 4:4>1 Chronicles 4:4</verse></h3>



And Penuel the father of Gedor, and Ezer the father of Hushah. These [are] the sons of Hur, the (b)
firstborn of Ephratah, the father of Bethlehem.



(b) The first born of his mother, and not the eldest of his father.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 4:9
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 4:9>1 Chronicles 4:9</verse></h3>



And Jabez was more honourable than his brethren: and his mother called his name (c) Jabez, saying,
Because I bare him with sorrow.

(c) Otherwise called Othniel, <bcv=Jdg 1:13>(Jdg 1:13).</bcv>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 4:10
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 4:10>1 Chronicles 4:10</verse></h3>



And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge
my coast, and (d) that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep [me] from evil, that
it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested.



(d) It is to be understood that then he would accomplish his vow which he made.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 4:14
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 4:14>1 Chronicles 4:14</verse></h3>



And Meonothai begat Ophrah: and Seraiah begat Joab, the (e) father of the valley of Charashim; for
they were craftsmen.



(e) The Lord of the valley where the artificers worked.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 4:15
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 4:15>1 Chronicles 4:15</verse></h3>



And the sons of Caleb the son of (f) Jephunneh; Iru, Elah, and Naam: and the sons of Elah, even
Kenaz.



(f) Called also Esrom.

#BCV:1 Chronicles 4:23
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 4:23>1 Chronicles 4:23</verse></h3>


These [were] the potters, and those that dwelt among plants and hedges: (g) there they dwelt with
the king for his work.



(g) They were David's gardeners and served him in his works.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 4:24
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 4:24>1 Chronicles 4:24</verse></h3>



The sons of Simeon [were], Nemuel, and Jamin, Jarib, Zerah, [and] (h) Shaul:



(h) His son Obed is omitted here.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 4:28
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 4:28>1 Chronicles 4:28</verse></h3>



And they dwelt at (i) Beersheba, and Moladah, and Hazarshual,



(i) These cities belonged to Judah, (<bcv=Jos 19:2>Jos 19:2</bcv>), and were given to the tribe of Simeon.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 4:31
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 4:31>1 Chronicles 4:31</verse></h3>



And at Bethmarcaboth, and Hazarsusim, and at Bethbirei, and at Shaaraim. These [were] their cities
unto the reign of (k) David.



(k) Then David restored them to the tribe of Judah.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 4:39
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 4:39>1 Chronicles 4:39</verse></h3>



And they (l) went to the entrance of Gedor, [even] unto the east side of the valley, to seek pasture
for their flocks.



(l) For the tribe of Simeon was so great in number, that in the time of Hezekiah they sought new
dwellings to Gedor, which is in the tribe of Dan.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 4:43
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 4:43>1 Chronicles 4:43</verse></h3>



And they smote the rest of the Amalekites that were (m) escaped, and dwelt there unto this day.



(m) And were not slain by Saul and David.

<h2>1 Chronicles 5</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 5:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 5:1>1 Chronicles 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=855>Now the sons of Reuben the firstborn of Israel, (for he [was] the firstborn; but, forasmuch as he
defiled his father's bed, his birthright was given unto the (a) sons of Joseph the son of Israel: and
the genealogy is not to be reckoned after the birthright.



(a) Because they were made two tribes, they had a double portion.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 5:2
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 5:2>1 Chronicles 5:2</verse></h3>



For Judah prevailed above his brethren, and of him [came] (b) the chief ruler; but the birthright [was]
Joseph's:)



(b) That is, he was the chiefest of all the tribes according to Jacob's prophecy, (<bcv=Gen 49:8>Gen 49:8</bcv>), and
because Christ would come from him.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 5:6
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 5:6>1 Chronicles 5:6</verse></h3>



Beerah his son, whom Tilgathpilneser king of Assyria (c) carried away [captive]: he [was] prince of
the Reubenites.



(c) That is, in the time of Uzziah king of Israel, (<bcv=II Ki 15:23>Kg2 15:23</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 5:8
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 5:8>1 Chronicles 5:8</verse></h3>



And Bela the son of Azaz, the son of Shema, the son of Joel, who dwelt in (d) Aroer, even unto
Nebo and Baalmeon:



(d) These places were beyond Jordan toward the east in the land given to the Reubenites.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 5:10
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 5:10>1 Chronicles 5:10</verse></h3>



And in the days of Saul they made war with the (e) Hagarites, who fell by their hand: and they dwelt
in their tents throughout all the east [land] of Gilead.



(e) The Ishmaelites who came from Hagar Abraham's concubine.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 5:16
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 5:16>1 Chronicles 5:16</verse></h3>



And they dwelt in Gilead in (f) Bashan, and in her towns, and in all the suburbs of Sharon, upon
their borders.

<page=856>(f) Both the whole country and one particular city were called Bashan.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 5:19
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 5:19>1 Chronicles 5:19</verse></h3>



And they made war with the Hagarites, with (g) Jetur, and Nephish, and Nodab.



(g) These twelve were the sons of Ishmael, (<bcv=Gen 25:15>Gen 25:15</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 5:20
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 5:20>1 Chronicles 5:20</verse></h3>



And they were (h) helped against them, and the Hagarites were delivered into their hand, and all that
[were] with them: for they cried to God in the battle, and he was intreated of them; because they put
their trust in him.



(h) That is, by the Lord who gave them the victory.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 5:22
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 5:22>1 Chronicles 5:22</verse></h3>



For there fell down many slain, because the war [was] of God. And they dwelt in their steads until
the (i) captivity.



(i) Meaning, the captivity of the ten tribes under Tiglath Pileser.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 5:23
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 5:23>1 Chronicles 5:23</verse></h3>



And the children of the half tribe of Manasseh dwelt in the land: they increased from Bashan unto



(k) Baalhermon and Senir, and unto mount Hermon.



(k) Otherwise called Baal-gad.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 5:26
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 5:26>1 Chronicles 5:26</verse></h3>



And the God of Israel (l) stirred up the spirit of Pul king of Assyria, and the spirit of
Tilgathpilneser king of Assyria, and he carried them away, even the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and
the half tribe of Manasseh, and brought them unto Halah, and Habor, and Hara, and to the river
Gozan, unto this day.



(l) Thus God stirred up the wicked and used them as instruments to execute his just judgment
against sinners, although they were led by malice and ambition.

<h2>1 Chronicles 6</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 6:8
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 6:8>1 Chronicles 6:8</verse></h3>

<page=857>And Ahitub begat (a) Zadok, and Zadok begat Ahimaaz,



(a) Who was high priest after Abiathar was deposed, according to the prophecy of Eli the priest,

(<bcv=I Sa 2:31>Sa1 2:31</bcv>, <bcv=2Sa 2:35>Sa1 2:35).</bcv>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 6:10
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 6:10>1 Chronicles 6:10</verse></h3>



And Johanan begat Azariah, (he [it is] that executed the (b) priest's office in the temple that Solomon
built in Jerusalem:)



(b) And valiantly resisted king Uzziah, who would have usurped the priest's office (<bcv=2Ch 26:17-18>Ch2 26:17-18</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 6:15
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 6:15>1 Chronicles 6:15</verse></h3>



And (c) Jehozadak went [into captivity], when the LORD carried away Judah and Jerusalem by the
hand of Nebuchadnezzar.



(c) That is, he was led into captivity with his father Seraiah the high priest, (<bcv=II Ki 25:18>Kg2 25:18</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 6:22
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 6:22>1 Chronicles 6:22</verse></h3>



The sons of Kohath; (d) Amminadab his son, Korah his son, Assir his son,



(d) Who seems to be called Izhar, (<bcv=Exo 6:21>Exo 6:21</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 6:28
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 6:28>1 Chronicles 6:28</verse></h3>



And the sons of Samuel; the firstborn (e) Vashni, and Abiah.



(e) Who is also called Joel, (<bcv=I Sa 8:2>Sa1 8:2</bcv>; <bcv=1Ch 6:33>Ch1 6:33</bcv>).

#BCV:1 Chronicles 6:31
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 6:31>1 Chronicles 6:31</verse></h3>



And these [are they] whom David set over the service of song in the house of the LORD, after that
the ark had (f) rest.



(f) After it was brought to the place where the temple would be built and was no longer carried to
and fro.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 6:39
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 6:39>1 Chronicles 6:39</verse></h3>

<page=858>And his brother (h) Asaph, who stood on his right hand, [even] Asaph the son of Berachiah, the son
of Shimea,



(h) Meaning, the son of Heman, (<bcv=1Ch 6:33>Ch1 6:33</bcv>).

#BCV:1 Chronicles 6:48
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 6:48>1 Chronicles 6:48</verse></h3>



Their (i) brethren also the Levites [were] (k) appointed unto all manner of service of the tabernacle
of the house of God.



(i) The Levites are called the singers brothers because they came from the same stock.



(k) Read (<bcv=Num 4:4>Num 4:4</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 6:54
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 6:54>1 Chronicles 6:54</verse></h3>



Now these [are] their (l) dwelling places throughout their castles in their coasts, of the sons of
Aaron, of the families of the Kohathites: for theirs was the (m) lot.



(l) Or, cities which were given to the Levites.



(m) They were first appointed, and prepared for.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 6:55
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 6:55>1 Chronicles 6:55</verse></h3>



And they gave them (n) Hebron in the land of Judah, and the suburbs thereof round about it.



(n) Which was also called Kirjatharba, (<bcv=Gen 23:2>Gen 23:2</bcv>;<bcv=Jos 21:11> Jos 21:11</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 6:57
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 6:57>1 Chronicles 6:57</verse></h3>



And to the sons of Aaron they gave the cities of Judah, [namely], Hebron, [the city] of (o) refuge,
and Libnah with her suburbs, and Jattir, and Eshtemoa, with their suburbs,



(o) That he that had killed a man might flee to it for help till his case was tried, (<bcv=Deu 19:2>Deu 19:2</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 6:58
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 6:58>1 Chronicles 6:58</verse></h3>



And (p) Hilen with her suburbs, Debir with her suburbs,



(p) Which Joshua called Holon, (<bcv=Jos 15:51>Jos 15:51</bcv>,<bcv=Jos 21:15> Jos 21:15</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 6:60
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 6:60>1 Chronicles 6:60</verse></h3>

<page=859>And out of the tribe of Benjamin; Geba with her suburbs, and (q) Alemeth with her suburbs, and
Anathoth with her suburbs. All their cities throughout their families [were] thirteen cities.



(q) Or, Almon (<bcv=Jos 21:18>Jos 21:18</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 6:61
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 6:61>1 Chronicles 6:61</verse></h3>



And unto the sons of (r) Kohath, [which were] left of the family of that tribe, [were cities given] out
of the half tribe, [namely, out of] the half [tribe] of Manasseh, by lot, ten cities.



(r) That is, they gave a portion to the Kohathites, who were the remnant of the tribe of Levi, out of
the half tribe of Manasseh and out of Ephraim, (<bcv=1Ch 6:66>Ch1 6:66</bcv>).

#BCV:1 Chronicles 6:71
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 6:71>1 Chronicles 6:71</verse></h3>



Unto the sons of (s) Gershom [were given] out of the family of the half tribe of Manasseh, Golan
in Bashan with her suburbs, and Ashtaroth with her suburbs:



(s) Who in the first verse is also called Gershon.

<h2>1 Chronicles 7</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 7:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 7:1>1 Chronicles 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=860>Now the sons of Issachar [were], Tola, and Puah, (a) Jashub, and Shimron, four.



(a) Who also is called Job, (<bcv=Gen 46:13>Gen 46:13</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 7:2
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 7:2>1 Chronicles 7:2</verse></h3>



And the sons of Tola; Uzzi, and Rephaiah, and Jeriel, and Jahmai, and Jibsam, and Shemuel, heads
of their father's house, [to wit], of Tola: [they were] valiant men of might in their generations; (b)
whose number [was] in the days of David two and twenty thousand and six hundred.



(b) That is, their number was found to be this big when David counted the people, (<bcv=II Sa 24:1>Sa2 24:1</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 7:3
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 7:3>1 Chronicles 7:3</verse></h3>



And the sons of Uzzi; Izrahiah: and the sons of Izrahiah; Michael, and Obadiah, and Joel, Ishiah, (c)
five: all of them chief men.



(c) Meaning, the four sons and the father.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 7:6
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 7:6>1 Chronicles 7:6</verse></h3>



[The sons] of Benjamin; Bela, and Becher, and (d) Jediael, (e) three.



(d) Also called Ashbel, (<bcv=Gen 46:21>Gen 46:21</bcv>;<bcv=Num 26:38> Num 26:38</bcv>).



(e) Who were the chief: or else there were seven in all as it appears in (<bcv=Gen 46:21>Gen 46:21</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 7:12
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 7:12>1 Chronicles 7:12</verse></h3>



Shuppim also, and Huppim, the children of Ir, [and] Hushim, the sons of (f) Aher.



(f) Meaning that he was not the son of Benjamin, but of Dan (<bcv=Gen 46:23>Gen 46:23</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 7:13
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 7:13>1 Chronicles 7:13</verse></h3>



The sons of Naphtali; Jahziel, and Guni, and Jezer, and Shallum, (g) the sons of Bilhah.



(g) These came from Dan and Naphtali, who were the sons of Bilhah, (<bcv=Gen 46:23-25>Gen 46:23-25</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 7:18
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 7:18>1 Chronicles 7:18</verse></h3>

<page=861>And (h) his sister Hammoleketh bare Ishod, and Abiezer, and Mahalah.



(h) Meaning, the sister of Gilead.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 7:21
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 7:21>1 Chronicles 7:21</verse></h3>



And Zabad his son, and Shuthelah his son, and Ezer, and Elead, whom the men of (i) Gath [that
were] born in [that] land slew, because they came down to take away their cattle.



(i) Which was one of the five principal cities of the Philistines and who slew the Ephraimites.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 7:25
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 7:25>1 Chronicles 7:25</verse></h3>



And Rephah [was] his (k) son, also Resheph, and Telah his son, and Tahan his son,



(k) That is, of Ephraim.

<h2>1 Chronicles 8</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 8:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 8:1>1 Chronicles 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=862>Now Benjamin (a) begat Bela his firstborn, Ashbel the second, and Aharah the third,



(a) He continues in the description of the tribe of Benjamin, because his purpose is to set forth the
genealogy of Saul.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 8:6
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 8:6>1 Chronicles 8:6</verse></h3>



And these [are] the sons of Ehud: these are the heads of the fathers of the inhabitants of Geba, and



(b) they removed them to Manahath:



(b) Meaning, the inhabitants of the city of Geba.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 8:7
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 8:7>1 Chronicles 8:7</verse></h3>



And Naaman, and Ahiah, and Gera, he removed them, and (c) begat Uzza, and Ahihud.



(c) That is, Ehud.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 8:8
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 8:8>1 Chronicles 8:8</verse></h3>



And Shaharaim begat [children] in the country of Moab, after he had sent them (d) away; Hushim
and Baara [were] his wives.



(d) After he had put away his two wives.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 8:28
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 8:28>1 Chronicles 8:28</verse></h3>



These [were] heads of the (e) fathers, by their generations, chief [men]. These dwelt in Jerusalem.



(e) The chief of the tribe of Benjamin, who dwelt in Jerusalem.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 8:33
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 8:33>1 Chronicles 8:33</verse></h3>



And (f) Ner begat Kish, and Kish begat Saul, and Saul begat Jonathan, and Malchishua, and
Abinadab, and (g) Eshbaal.



(f) Who in (<bcv=I Sa 9:2>Sa1 9:2</bcv>) is called Abiel.



(g) He is likewise called Mephibosheth, (<bcv=II Sa 9:6>Sa2 9:6</bcv>).

#BCV:1 Chronicles 8:34
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 8:34>1 Chronicles 8:34</verse></h3>


And the son of Jonathan [was] (h) Meribbaal; and Meribbaal begat Micah.



(h) He is also called Mephibosheth, (<bcv=II Sa 9:6>Sa2 9:6</bcv>).

<h2>1 Chronicles 9</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 9:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 9:1>1 Chronicles 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=864>So all Israel were reckoned by genealogies; and, behold, they [were] written in the book of the kings
of Israel and Judah, [who] were (a) carried away to Babylon for their transgression.



(a) Until now he has described their genealogies before they went into captivity, and now he
describes their history after their return.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 9:2
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 9:2>1 Chronicles 9:2</verse></h3>



Now the first inhabitants that [dwelt] in their possessions in their cities [were], the Israelites, the
priests, Levites, and the (b) Nethinims.



(b) Meaning, the Gibeonites, who served in the temple, read (<bcv=Jos 9:23>Jos 9:23</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 9:11
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 9:11>1 Chronicles 9:11</verse></h3>



And Azariah the son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok, the son of Meraioth, the
son of Ahitub, the (c) ruler of the house of God;



(c) That is, he was the high priest.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 9:13
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 9:13>1 Chronicles 9:13</verse></h3>



And their brethren, heads of the house of their fathers, a thousand and seven hundred and
threescore; very able men for the (d) work of the service of the house of God.



(d) To serve in the temple, every one according to his office.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 9:18
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 9:18>1 Chronicles 9:18</verse></h3>



Who hitherto [waited] in the (e) king's gate eastward: they [were] porters in the companies of the
children of Levi.



(e) So called because the king came into the temple by it, and not the common people.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 9:19
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 9:19>1 Chronicles 9:19</verse></h3>



And Shallum the son of Kore, the son of Ebiasaph, the son of Korah, and his brethren, of the
house of his father, the Korahites, [were] over the work of the service, keepers of the gates of the (f)
tabernacle: and their fathers, [being] over the host of the LORD, [were] keepers of the entry.

<page=865>(f) Their charge was that no one should enter those places, which were only appointed for the priests
to minister in.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 9:25
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 9:25>1 Chronicles 9:25</verse></h3>



And their brethren, [which were] in their villages, [were] to come after (g) seven days from time to
time with them.



(g) They served weekly, as in (<bcv=Exo 29:30>Exo 29:30</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 9:29
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 9:29>1 Chronicles 9:29</verse></h3>



[Some] of them also [were] appointed to oversee the vessels, and all the instruments of the
sanctuary, and the fine (h) flour, and the wine, and the oil, and the frankincense, and the spices.



(h) Of which the meat offering was made, (<bcv=Lev 2:8>Lev 2:8</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 9:33
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 9:33>1 Chronicles 9:33</verse></h3>



And these [are] the singers, chief of the fathers of the Levites, [who remaining] in the chambers (i)
[were] free: for they were employed in [that] work day and night.



(i) But were continually occupied in singing praises to God.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 9:42
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 9:42>1 Chronicles 9:42</verse></h3>



And Ahaz begat (k) Jarah; and Jarah begat Alemeth, and Azmaveth, and Zimri; and Zimri begat
Moza;



(k) Who was also called Jehoiada, (<bcv=1Ch 8:36>Ch1 8:36</bcv>).

<h2>1 Chronicles 10</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 10:10
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 10:10>1 Chronicles 10:10</verse></h3>

<page=866>And they put his armour in the house of their gods, and fastened his head in the temple of (a)
Dagon.



(a) Which was the idol of the Philistines, and from the belly downward had the form of a fish, and
upward of a man.

<h2>1 Chronicles 11</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 11:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 11:1>1 Chronicles 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=867>Then all Israel (a) gathered themselves to David unto Hebron, saying, Behold, we [are] thy bone and
thy flesh.



(a) This was after the death of Ishbosheth Saul's son, when David had reigned over Judah seven
years and six months in Hebron, (<bcv=II Sa 5:5>Sa2 5:5</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 11:11
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 11:11>1 Chronicles 11:11</verse></h3>



And this [is] the number of the mighty men whom David had; Jashobeam, an Hachmonite, the (b)
chief of the captains: he lifted up his spear against three hundred slain [by him] at one time.



(b) Meaning, the most excellent and best esteemed for his valiantry: some read, the chief of the
princes.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 11:14
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 11:14>1 Chronicles 11:14</verse></h3>



And they set themselves in the midst of [that] parcel, (c) and delivered it, and slew the Philistines;
and the LORD saved [them] by a great deliverance.



(c) This act refers to Shammah, (<bcv=II Sa 23:11>Sa2 23:11</bcv>), who it seems was the chiefest of these.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 11:15
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 11:15>1 Chronicles 11:15</verse></h3>



Now three of the (d) thirty captains went down to the rock to David, into the cave of Adullam; and
the host of the Philistines encamped in the valley of Rephaim.



(d) That is, Eleazar and his two companions.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 11:19
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 11:19>1 Chronicles 11:19</verse></h3>



And said, My God forbid it me, that I should do this thing: shall I drink the (e) blood of these men
that have put their lives in jeopardy? for with [the jeopardy of] their lives they brought it. Therefore
he would not drink it. These things did these three mightiest.



(e) That is, this water, for which they risked their lives.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 11:25
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 11:25>1 Chronicles 11:25</verse></h3>



Behold, he was honourable among the thirty, but attained not to the (f) [first] three: and David set
him over his guard.

<page=868>(f) Meaning, those three who brought the water to David.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 11:27
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 11:27>1 Chronicles 11:27</verse></h3>




(g) Shammoth the Harorite, Helez the Pelonite,



(g) Called also Shammah, (<bcv=II Sa 23:25>Sa2 23:25</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 11:29
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 11:29>1 Chronicles 11:29</verse></h3>




(h) Sibbecai the Hushathite, Ilai the Ahohite,



(h) He is also called Mebunnai, (<bcv=II Sa 23:27>Sa2 23:27</bcv>).

<h2>1 Chronicles 12</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 12:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 12:1>1 Chronicles 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=869>Now these [are] they that came to David to (a) Ziklag, while he yet kept himself close because of
Saul the son of Kish: and they [were] among the mighty men, helpers of the war.



(a) To take his part against Saul: who persecuted him.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 12:2
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 12:2>1 Chronicles 12:2</verse></h3>



[They were] armed with bows, and could use both the right hand and the left in [hurling] stones and
[shooting] arrows out of a bow, [even] of Saul's (b) brethren of Benjamin.

(b) That is, of the tribe of Benjamin, of which Saul was, and in which were excellent throwers with
slings, <bcv=Jdg 20:16>(Jdg 20:16).</bcv>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 12:8
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 12:8>1 Chronicles 12:8</verse></h3>



And of the Gadites there separated themselves unto David into the hold to the wilderness men of
might, [and] men of war [fit] for the battle, that could handle shield and buckler, whose faces [were
like] the faces of (c) lions, and [were] as swift as the roes upon the mountains;



(c) Meaning, fierce and terrible.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 12:15
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 12:15>1 Chronicles 12:15</verse></h3>



These [are] they that went over Jordan in the (d) first month, when it had overflown all his banks;
and they put to flight all [them] of the valleys, [both] toward the east, and toward the west.



(d) Which the Hebrews called <transhebrew>Nisan,<english> or <transhebrew>Abib,<english> containing half March and half April, when Jordan
was wont to overflow its banks, read (<bcv=Jos 3:15>Jos 3:15</bcv>).

#BCV:1 Chronicles 12:18
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 12:18>1 Chronicles 12:18</verse></h3>



Then the (e) spirit came upon Amasai, [who was] chief of the captains, [and he said], Thine [are we],
David, and on thy side, thou son of Jesse: peace, peace [be] unto thee, and peace [be] to thine
helpers; for thy God helpeth thee. Then David received them, and made them captains of the band.



(e) The spirit of boldness and courage moved him to speak thus.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 12:19
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 12:19>1 Chronicles 12:19</verse></h3>

<page=870>And there fell [some] of Manasseh to David, when he came with the Philistines against Saul to battle:
but they (f) helped them not: for the lords of the Philistines upon advisement sent him away, saying,
He will fall to his master Saul to [the jeopardy of] our heads.



(f) They came only to help David, and not to help the Philistines, who were enemies of their country.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 12:21
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 12:21>1 Chronicles 12:21</verse></h3>



And they helped David against the (g) band [of the rovers]: for they [were] all mighty men of valour,
and were captains in the host.



(g) That is, of the Amalekites who had burned the city of Ziklag, (<bcv=I Sa 30:1>Sa1 30:1</bcv>, <bcv=1Sa 30:9>Sa1 30:9).</bcv>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 12:22
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 12:22>1 Chronicles 12:22</verse></h3>



For at [that] time day by day there came to David to help him, until [it was] a great host, like the host
of (h) God.



(h) Meaning, mighty or strong, for the Hebrews say a thing is of God when it is excellent.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 12:27
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 12:27>1 Chronicles 12:27</verse></h3>



And Jehoiada [was] the leader of the (i) Aaronites, and with him [were] three thousand and seven
hundred;



(i) Of the Levites who came by the descent of Aaron.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 12:29
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 12:29>1 Chronicles 12:29</verse></h3>



And of the children of Benjamin, the kindred of Saul, three thousand: for hitherto the greatest part
of them had (k) kept the ward of the house of Saul.



(k) That is, the greatest number took Saul's side.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 12:32
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 12:32>1 Chronicles 12:32</verse></h3>



And of the children of Issachar, [which were men] that had understanding of the (l) times, to know
what Israel ought to do; the heads of them [were] two hundred; and all their brethren [were] at their
commandment.



(l) Men of good experience, who knew at all times what was to be done.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 12:38
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 12:38>1 Chronicles 12:38</verse></h3>


<page=871>(m) All these men of war, that could keep rank, came with a perfect heart to Hebron, to make David
king over all Israel: and all the rest also of Israel [were] of one heart to make David king.



(m) So that his whole host were 322,222.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 12:39
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 12:39>1 Chronicles 12:39</verse></h3>



And there they were with David three days, eating and drinking: for their (n) brethren had prepared
for them.



(n) The rest of the Israelites.

<h2>1 Chronicles 13</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 13:3
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 13:3>1 Chronicles 13:3</verse></h3>

<page=872>And let us bring again the (a) ark of our God to us: for we enquired not at it in the days of Saul.



(a) His first concern was to restore religion, which had in Saul's day been corrupted and neglected.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 13:5
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 13:5>1 Chronicles 13:5</verse></h3>



So David gathered all Israel together, from Shihor of Egypt even unto the entering of Hemath, to
bring the ark of God from (b) Kirjathjearim.



(b) That is, from Gibea, where the inhabitants of Kirjathjearim had placed it in the house of
Abinadab, (<bcv=II Sa 6:3>Sa2 6:3</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 13:7
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 13:7>1 Chronicles 13:7</verse></h3>



And they carried the ark of God in a new cart out of the house of Abinadab: and Uzza and Ahio (c)
drave the cart.



(c) The sons of Abinadab.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 13:8
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 13:8>1 Chronicles 13:8</verse></h3>



And David and all Israel played before (d) God with all [their] might, and with singing, and with
harps, and with psalteries, and with timbrels, and with cymbals, and with trumpets.



(d) That is, before the Ark, where God showed himself: so that the sign is taken for the thing
signified, which is common to all sacraments both in the old and new testaments.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 13:9
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 13:9>1 Chronicles 13:9</verse></h3>



And when they came unto the threshingfloor of (e) Chidon, Uzza put forth his hand to hold the ark;
for the oxen stumbled.



(e) Called also Nachon, (<bcv=II Sa 6:6>Sa2 6:6</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 13:10
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 13:10>1 Chronicles 13:10</verse></h3>



And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Uzza, and he smote him, because he put his hand
to the ark: and there he died (f) before God.

<page=873>(f) Before the Ark for usurping that which did not belong to his calling: for this charge was given to
the priests, (<bcv=Num 4:15>Num 4:15</bcv>), so that here all good intentions are condemned, unless they are commanded
by the word of God.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 13:13
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 13:13>1 Chronicles 13:13</verse></h3>



So David brought not the ark [home] to himself to the city of David, but carried it aside into the
house of (g) Obededom the Gittite.



(g) Who was a Levite, and called Gittite, because he dwelt at Gath.

<h2>1 Chronicles 14</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 14:2
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 14:2>1 Chronicles 14:2</verse></h3>

<page=874>And David perceived that the LORD had confirmed him king over Israel, for his kingdom was lifted
up on high, because of his (a) people Israel.



(a) Because of God's promise made to the people of Israel.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 14:5
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 14:5>1 Chronicles 14:5</verse></h3>



And Ibhar, and Elishua, and (b) Elpalet,



(b) Elpalet and Nogah are not mentioned in (<bcv=II Sa 5:14>Sa2 5:14</bcv>), so there are only eleven and here thirteen.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 14:11
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 14:11>1 Chronicles 14:11</verse></h3>



So they came up to Baalperazim; and David smote them there. Then David said, God hath broken
in upon mine enemies by mine hand like the breaking forth of waters: therefore they called the
name of that place (c) Baalperazim.



(c) That is, the valley of divisions, because the enemies were dispersed there like waters.

<h2>1 Chronicles 15</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 15:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 15:1>1 Chronicles 15:1</verse></h3>

<page=875>And [David] made him houses in the (a) city of David, and prepared a place for the ark of God, and
pitched for it a tent.



(a) That was in Zion (<bcv=II Sa 5:7>Sa2 5:7</bcv>,<bcv=II Samuel 5:9>9</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 15:3
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 15:3>1 Chronicles 15:3</verse></h3>



And David gathered all Israel together to Jerusalem, to bring up the (b) ark of the LORD unto his
place, which he had prepared for it.



(b) From the house of Obed Edom, (<bcv=II Sa 6:10>Sa2 6:10</bcv>, <bcv=2Sam 6:12>Sa2 6:12</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 15:8
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 15:8>1 Chronicles 15:8</verse></h3>



Of the sons of (c) Elizaphan; Shemaiah the chief, and his brethren two hundred:



(c) Who was the son of Uzziel, the fourth son of Kohath, (<bcv=Exo 6:18>Exo 6:18</bcv>,<bcv=Exo 6:22> Exo 6:22</bcv>;<bcv=Num 3:30> Num 3:30</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 15:9
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 15:9>1 Chronicles 15:9</verse></h3>



Of the sons of (d) Hebron; Eliel the chief, and his brethren fourscore:



(d) The third son of Kohath, (<bcv=Exo 6:18>Exo 6:18</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 15:12
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 15:12>1 Chronicles 15:12</verse></h3>



And said unto them, Ye [are] the chief of the fathers of the Levites: (e) sanctify yourselves, [both] ye
and your brethren, that ye may bring up the ark of the LORD God of Israel unto [the place that] I
have prepared for it.



(e) Prepare yourselves and be pure, abstain from all things by which you might be polluted, and so
not able to come to the tabernacle.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 15:13
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 15:13>1 Chronicles 15:13</verse></h3>



For because ye [did it] not at the first, the LORD our God made a breach upon us, for that we
sought him not after the due (f) order.



(f) According as he has appointed in the law.

#BCV:1 Chronicles 15:16
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 15:16>1 Chronicles 15:16</verse></h3>


And David spake to the chief of the Levites to appoint their brethren [to be] the singers with (g)
instruments of musick, psalteries and harps and cymbals, sounding, by lifting up the voice with joy.



(g) These instruments and other ceremonies which they observed, were instructions of their infancy,
which continued to the coming of Christ.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 15:18
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 15:18>1 Chronicles 15:18</verse></h3>



And with them their brethren of the (h) second [degree], Zechariah, Ben, and Jaaziel, and
Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, Eliab, and Benaiah, and Maaseiah, and Mattithiah, and Elipheleh,
and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, the porters.



(h) Which were inferior in dignity.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 15:20
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 15:20>1 Chronicles 15:20</verse></h3>



And Zechariah, and Aziel, and Shemiramoth, and Jehiel, and Unni, and Eliab, and Maaseiah, and
Benaiah, with psalteries on (i) Alamoth;



(i) This was an instrument of music or a certain tune, to which they sang psalms.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 15:21
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 15:21>1 Chronicles 15:21</verse></h3>



And Mattithiah, and Elipheleh, and Mikneiah, and Obededom, and Jeiel, and Azaziah, with harps on
the (k) Sheminith to excel.



(k) Which was the eighth tune, over which he that was most excellent had charge.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 15:22
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 15:22>1 Chronicles 15:22</verse></h3>



And Chenaniah, chief of the Levites, (l) [was] for song: he instructed about the song, because he
[was] skilful.



(l) That is, to appoint Psalms and songs to them that sang.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 15:24
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 15:24>1 Chronicles 15:24</verse></h3>



And Shebaniah, and Jehoshaphat, and Nethaneel, and Amasai, and Zechariah, and Benaiah, and
Eliezer, the priests, did blow with the trumpets before the ark of God: and Obededom and Jehiah
[were] doorkeepers (m) for the ark.



(m) With Berechiah and Elkanah, (<bcv=1Ch 15:23>Ch1 15:23</bcv>).

#BCV:1 Chronicles 15:26
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 15:26>1 Chronicles 15:26</verse></h3>

<page=877>And it came to pass, when God (n) helped the Levites that bare the ark of the covenant of the
LORD, that they offered (o) seven bullocks and seven rams.



(n) That is, gave them strength to execute their office.



(o) Besides the bullock and the fat beast which David offered at every sixth pace, (<bcv=II Sa 6:13>Sa2 6:13</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 15:27
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 15:27>1 Chronicles 15:27</verse></h3>



And David [was] clothed with a robe of fine linen, and all the Levites that bare the ark, and the
singers, and Chenaniah the master of the song with the singers: David also [had] upon him an (p)
ephod of linen.



(p) Read (<bcv=II Sa 6:14>Sa2 6:14</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 15:29
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 15:29>1 Chronicles 15:29</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, [as] the ark of the (q) covenant of the LORD came to the city of David, that
Michal the daughter of Saul looking out at a window saw king David dancing and playing: and she
despised him in her heart.



(q) It was so called because it reminded the Israelites of the Lord's covenant made with them.

<h2>1 Chronicles 16</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:2
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:2>1 Chronicles 16:2</verse></h3>

<page=878>And when David had made an end of offering the burnt offerings and the peace offerings, he (a)
blessed the people in the name of the LORD.



(a) He called upon the Name of God, desiring him to prosper the people, and give good success to
their beginnings.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:4
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:4>1 Chronicles 16:4</verse></h3>



And he appointed [certain] of the Levites to minister before the ark of the LORD, and to (b) record,
and to thank and praise the LORD God of Israel:



(b) That is, God's benefits to his people.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:7
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:7>1 Chronicles 16:7</verse></h3>



Then on that day David (c) delivered first [this psalm] to thank the LORD into the hand of Asaph
and his brethren.



(c) David gave them this Psalm to praise the Lord, signifying that in all our enterprises the Name of
God should be praised and called upon.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:8
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:8>1 Chronicles 16:8</verse></h3>



Give thanks unto the LORD, call upon his name, make known his (d) deeds among the people.



(d) Of which this is the chiefest, that he has chosen himself a Church to call upon his name.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:9
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:9>1 Chronicles 16:9</verse></h3>



Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him, talk ye of all his (e) wondrous works.



(e) Who of his wonderful providence has chosen a few of the stock of Abraham to be his children.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:12
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:12>1 Chronicles 16:12</verse></h3>



Remember his marvellous works that he hath done, his wonders, and the (f) judgments of his mouth;



(f) In overcoming Pharaoh, which judgments were declared by God's mouth to Moses.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:13
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:13>1 Chronicles 16:13</verse></h3>

<page=879>O ye seed of Israel his servant, ye children of Jacob, his (g) chosen ones.



(g) Meaning by this that the promise of adoption only belongs to the Church.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:19
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:19>1 Chronicles 16:19</verse></h3>



When ye were but (h) few, even a few, and strangers in it.



(h) Meaning, from the time that Abraham entered, to the time that Jacob went into Egypt for famine.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:21
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:21>1 Chronicles 16:21</verse></h3>



He suffered no man to do them wrong: yea, he reproved (i) kings for their sakes,



(i) As Pharaoh and Abimelech.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:22
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:22>1 Chronicles 16:22</verse></h3>



[Saying], Touch not mine (k) anointed, and do my (l) prophets no harm.



(k) My elect and those whom I have sanctified.



(l) To whom God declared his word and they declared it to their posterity.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:26
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:26>1 Chronicles 16:26</verse></h3>



For all the gods of the people [are] (m) idols: but the LORD made the heavens.



(m) His strong faith appears in this, though all the world would follow idols, yet he would cleave to
the living God.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:30
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:30>1 Chronicles 16:30</verse></h3>




(n) Fear before him, all the earth: the world also shall be stable, that it be not moved.



(n) Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:31
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:31>1 Chronicles 16:31</verse></h3>



Let the (o) heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice: and let [men] say among the nations, The
LORD reigneth.



(o) He exhorts the dumb creatures to rejoice with him in considering the greatness of the grace of
God.

#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:33
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:33>1 Chronicles 16:33</verse></h3>


Then shall the trees of the wood sing out at the presence of the LORD, because he cometh to (p)
judge the earth.



(p) To restore all things to their estate.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:35
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:35>1 Chronicles 16:35</verse></h3>



And say ye, Save us, O God of our salvation, and gather us together, and deliver us from the
heathen, that we may give thanks to thy holy name, [and] (q) glory in thy praise.



(q) He esteems this to be the chiefest happiness of man.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:36
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:36>1 Chronicles 16:36</verse></h3>



Blessed [be] the LORD God of Israel for ever and ever. And all the people said, (r) Amen, and
praised the LORD.



(r) He wills all the people both in heart and mouth to consent to those praises.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:41
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:41>1 Chronicles 16:41</verse></h3>



And with (s) them Heman and Jeduthun, and the rest that were chosen, who were expressed by
name, to give thanks to the LORD, because his mercy [endureth] for ever;



(s) With Zadok and the rest of the priests.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 16:43
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 16:43>1 Chronicles 16:43</verse></h3>



And all the people departed every man to his house: and David returned to (t) bless his house.



(t) Declaring that after our duty to God we are chiefly bound to our own house, for which as for all
other things we should pray to God, and instruct our families to praise his Name.

<h2>1 Chronicles 17</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 17:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 17:1>1 Chronicles 17:1</verse></h3>

<page=881>Now it came to pass, as David sat in his house, that David said to Nathan the prophet, Lo, I dwell in
an house of (a) cedars, but the ark of the covenant of the LORD [remaineth] under (b) curtains.



(a) Well built and fair.



(b) That is, in tents covered with skin.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 17:2
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 17:2>1 Chronicles 17:2</verse></h3>



Then Nathan said unto David, Do (c) all that [is] in thine heart; for God [is] with thee.



(c) As yet God had not revealed to the prophet what he purposed concerning David, therefore
seeing God favoured David, he spoke what he thought.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 17:3
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 17:3>1 Chronicles 17:3</verse></h3>



And it came to pass the same (d) night, that the word of God came to Nathan, saying,



(d) After Nathan had spoken to David.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 17:5
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 17:5>1 Chronicles 17:5</verse></h3>



For I have not dwelt in an house since the day that I brought up Israel unto this day; but have gone
from (e) tent to tent, and from [one] tabernacle [to another].



(e) That is, in a tent which moved to and fro.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 17:6
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 17:6>1 Chronicles 17:6</verse></h3>



Wheresoever I have (f) walked with all Israel, spake I a word to any of the judges of Israel, whom I
commanded to feed my people, saying, Why have ye not built me an house of cedars?



(f) Meaning, wherever his ark went, which was a sign of his presence.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 17:7
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 17:7>1 Chronicles 17:7</verse></h3>



Now therefore thus shalt thou say unto my servant David, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, I took
thee from the sheepcote, (g) [even] from following the sheep, that thou shouldest be ruler over my
people Israel:

<page=882>(g) Of a shepherd of sheep I made you a shepherd of men: so that you did not come to this dignity
through your own merits, but by my pure grace.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 17:9
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 17:9>1 Chronicles 17:9</verse></h3>



Also I will ordain a place for my people Israel, and will (h) plant them, and they shall dwell in their
place, and shall be moved no more; neither shall the children of wickedness waste them any more, as
at the beginning,



(h) Make them sure that they will not move.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 17:10
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 17:10>1 Chronicles 17:10</verse></h3>



And since the time that I commanded judges [to be] over my people Israel. Moreover I will subdue
all thine enemies. Furthermore I tell thee that the LORD will (i) build thee an house.



(i) Will give you great posterity.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 17:12
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 17:12>1 Chronicles 17:12</verse></h3>



He shall build me an house, and I will stablish his throne for (k) ever.



(k) That is, to the coming of Christ: for then these figures would cease.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 17:13
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 17:13>1 Chronicles 17:13</verse></h3>



I will be his father, and he shall be my son: and I will not take my mercy away from him, as I took [it]
from [him] that was before (l) thee:



(l) Which was Saul.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 17:16
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 17:16>1 Chronicles 17:16</verse></h3>



And David the king (m) came and sat before the LORD, and said, Who [am] I, O LORD God, and
what [is] mine house, that thou hast brought me (n) hitherto?



(m) He went into the tent where the Ark was, showing what we should do when we receive any
benefits from the Lord.



(n) Meaning to this kingly estate.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 17:17
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 17:17>1 Chronicles 17:17</verse></h3>

<page=883>And [yet] this was a small thing in thine eyes, O God; for thou hast [also] spoken of thy servant's
house for a great while to come, and hast regarded me according to the estate of a man of (o) high
degree, O LORD God.



(o) You have promised a kingdom that will continue to me and my posterity and that Christ will
proceed from me.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 17:19
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 17:19>1 Chronicles 17:19</verse></h3>



O LORD, for thy servant's sake, and according to thine own (p) heart, hast thou done all this
greatness, in making known all [these] great things.



(p) Freely and according to the purpose of your will, without any deserving.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 17:24
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 17:24>1 Chronicles 17:24</verse></h3>



Let it even be established, that thy name may be magnified for ever, saying, The LORD of hosts [is]
the God of (q) Israel, [even] a God to Israel: and [let] the house of David thy servant [be]
established before thee.



(q) That is, he shows himself indeed to be their God, by delivering them from dangers, and
preserving them.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 17:25
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 17:25>1 Chronicles 17:25</verse></h3>



For thou, O my God, hast (r) told thy servant that thou wilt build him an house: therefore thy
servant hath found [in his heart] to pray before thee.



(r) You have declared to me by Nathan the prophet.

<h2>1 Chronicles 18</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 18:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 18:1>1 Chronicles 18:1</verse></h3>

<page=884>Now after this it came to pass, that David smote the Philistines, and subdued them, and took (a)
Gath and her towns out of the hand of the Philistines.



(a) Which (<bcv=II Sa 8:1>Sa2 8:1</bcv>) calls the bridle of bondage, because it was a strong town and kept the country
around it in subjection.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 18:6
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 18:6>1 Chronicles 18:6</verse></h3>



Then David put [garrisons] in Syriadamascus; and the Syrians became David's servants, [and]
brought gifts. Thus the LORD (b) preserved David whithersoever he went.



(b) That is in all things that he attempted.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 18:8
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 18:8>1 Chronicles 18:8</verse></h3>



Likewise from (c) Tibhath, and from Chun, cities of Hadarezer, brought David very much brass,
wherewith Solomon made the brasen sea, and the pillars, and the vessels of brass.



(c) Which in (<bcv=II Sa 8:8>Sa2 8:8</bcv>) is called Betah and Berothai.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 18:10
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 18:10>1 Chronicles 18:10</verse></h3>



He sent (d) Hadoram his son to king David, to enquire of his welfare, and to congratulate him,
because he had fought against Hadarezer, and smitten him; (for Hadarezer had war with Tou;) and
[with him] all manner of vessels of gold and silver and brass.



(d) Called also Joram (<bcv=II Sa 8:10>Sa2 8:10</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 18:11
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 18:11>1 Chronicles 18:11</verse></h3>



Them also king David dedicated unto the LORD, with the silver and the gold that he brought from
all [these] nations; from (e) Edom, and from Moab, and from the children of Ammon, and from the
Philistines, and from Amalek.



(e) Because the Edomites and the Syrians joined their power together, it is said, (<bcv=II Sa 8:12>Sa2 8:12</bcv>) that the
Amramites were spoiled.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 18:12
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 18:12>1 Chronicles 18:12</verse></h3>

<page=885>Moreover Abishai the son of Zeruiah slew of the Edomites in the valley of salt (f) eighteen
thousand.



(f) Which is understood that Joab slew 12,000 as is in (<bcv=Psa 60:1>Psa 60:1</bcv>) and Abishai the rest.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 18:17
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 18:17>1 Chronicles 18:17</verse></h3>



And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada [was] over the (g) Cherethites and the Pelethites; and the sons of
David [were] chief about the king.



(g) Read (<bcv=II Sa 8:18>Sa2 8:18</bcv>).

<h2>1 Chronicles 19</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 19:2
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 19:2>1 Chronicles 19:2</verse></h3>

<page=886>And David said, I will shew kindness unto Hanun the son of Nahash, because his (a) father shewed
kindness to me. And David sent messengers to comfort him concerning his father. So the servants
of David came into the land of the children of Ammon to Hanun, to comfort him.


(a) Because Nahash received David and his company, when Saul persecuted him he would now show
pleasure to his son for the same.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 19:3
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 19:3>1 Chronicles 19:3</verse></h3>



But the princes of the children of Ammon said to Hanun, Thinkest thou that David doth honour
thy father, that he hath sent comforters unto thee? are not his servants come unto thee for to search,
and to overthrow, and to (b) spy out the land?



(b) Thus the malicious always interpret the purpose of the godly in the worst sense.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 19:4
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 19:4>1 Chronicles 19:4</verse></h3>



Wherefore Hanun took David's servants, and (c) shaved them, and cut off their (d) garments in the
midst hard by their buttocks, and sent them away.



(c) They shaved off half of their beards, (<bcv=II Sa 10:4>Sa2 10:4</bcv>).



(d) To put them to shame and villany, while the ambassadors should have been honoured: and
because the Jews used to wear side garments and beards, they thus disfigured them, to make them
odious to others.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 19:6
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 19:6>1 Chronicles 19:6</verse></h3>



And when the children of Ammon saw that they had made themselves odious to David, Hanun and
the children of Ammon sent a thousand talents of silver to hire them chariots and horsemen out of
Mesopotamia, and out of Syriamaachah, and out of (e) Zobah.



(e) Which were five in all.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 19:7
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 19:7>1 Chronicles 19:7</verse></h3>



So they hired thirty and two thousand chariots, and the king of Maachah and his people; who came
and pitched before (f) Medeba. And the children of Ammon gathered themselves together from
their cities, and came to battle.

<page=887>(f) Which was a city of the tribe of Reuben beyond Jordan.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 19:13
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 19:13>1 Chronicles 19:13</verse></h3>



Be of good courage, and let us behave ourselves valiantly for our (g) people, and for the cities of
our God: and let the LORD do [that which is] good in his sight.



(g) He declares that where the cause is evil, the courage cannot be valiant, and that in good causes
men should be courageous, and commit the success to God.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 19:16
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 19:16>1 Chronicles 19:16</verse></h3>



And when the Syrians saw that they were put to the worse before Israel, they sent messengers, and
drew forth the Syrians that [were] beyond the (h) river: and Shophach the captain of the host of
Hadarezer [went] before them.



(h) That is, Euphrates.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 19:18
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 19:18>1 Chronicles 19:18</verse></h3>



But the Syrians fled before Israel; and David slew of the Syrians (i) seven thousand [men which
fought in] chariots, and forty thousand footmen, and killed Shophach the captain of the host.



(i) For this place, read (<bcv=II Sa 10:18>Sa2 10:18</bcv>).

<h2>1 Chronicles 20</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 20:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 20:1>1 Chronicles 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=888>And it came to pass, that after the year was expired, at the time that kings go out [to battle], Joab led
forth the power of the army, and wasted the country of the children of Ammon, and came and
besieged (a) Rabbah. But David tarried at Jerusalem. And Joab smote Rabbah, and destroyed it.


(a) Which was the chief city of the Ammonites.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 20:2
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 20:2>1 Chronicles 20:2</verse></h3>



And David took the crown of their king from off his head, and found it to weigh a (b) talent of
gold, and [there were] precious stones in it; and it was set upon David's head: and he brought also
exceeding much spoil out of the city.



(b) Which mounts about the value of seven thousand and seventy crowns, which is about 60 pound
weight.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 20:5
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 20:5>1 Chronicles 20:5</verse></h3>



And there was war again with the Philistines; and Elhanan the son of Jair slew (c) Lahmi the brother
of Goliath the Gittite, whose spear staff [was] like a weaver's beam.



(c) Read (<bcv=II Sa 21:19>Sa2 21:19</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 20:6
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 20:6>1 Chronicles 20:6</verse></h3>



And yet again there was war at Gath, where was a man of [great] stature, whose fingers and toes
[were] four and twenty, (d) six [on each hand], and six [on each foot]: and he also was the son of the
giant.



(d) Meaning that he had six apiece on hands and feet.

<h2>1 Chronicles 21</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 21:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 21:1>1 Chronicles 21:1</verse></h3>

<page=889>And (a) Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel.


(a) He tempted David, in setting before his eyes his excellency and glory, his power and victories, see



(<bcv=II Sa 24:1>Sa2 24:1</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 21:2
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 21:2>1 Chronicles 21:2</verse></h3>



And David said to Joab and to the rulers of the people, Go, number Israel from (b) Beersheba even
to Dan; and bring the number of them to me, that I may know [it].



(b) That is, from south to north.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 21:3
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 21:3>1 Chronicles 21:3</verse></h3>



And Joab answered, The LORD make his people an hundred times so many more as they [be]: but,
my lord the king, [are] they not all my lord's servants? why then doth my lord require this thing? why
will he be a cause of (c) trespass to Israel?



(c) It was a thing indifferent and usual to number the people, but because he did it for ambitious
reasons, as though his strength stood in his people, God punished him.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 21:5
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 21:5>1 Chronicles 21:5</verse></h3>



And Joab gave the sum of the number of the people unto David. And all [they of] Israel were (d) a
thousand thousand and an hundred thousand men that drew sword: and Judah [was] (e) four
hundred threescore and ten thousand men that drew sword.



(d) Joab partly for grief and partly through negligence gathered not the whole sum as it is here
declared.



(e) In Samuel 30,000 more are mentioned, which was either by joining to them some of the
Benjamites who were mixed with Judah, or as the Hebrews write, here the chief and princes are left
out.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 21:15
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 21:15>1 Chronicles 21:15</verse></h3>



And God sent an angel unto Jerusalem to destroy it: and (f) as he was destroying, the LORD beheld,
and he (g) repented him of the evil, and said to the angel that destroyed, It is enough, stay now thine
hand. And the angel of the LORD stood by the threshingfloor of Ornan the Jebusite.

<page=890>(f) Read (<bcv=2Sam 24:16>Sa2 24:16</bcv>).



(g) When God draws back his plagues, he seems to repent, read (<bcv=Gen 6:6>Gen 6:6</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 21:17
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 21:17>1 Chronicles 21:17</verse></h3>



And David said unto God, [Is it] not I [that] commanded the people to be numbered? even I it is
that have sinned and done evil indeed; but [as for] these sheep, what have they done? let thine hand,
I pray thee, O LORD my God, be on me, and on my father's house; but not on (h) thy people, that
they should be plagued.



(h) Thus he both shows a true repentance and a fatherly care toward his people, who desire God to
spare them, and to punish him and his.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 21:20
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 21:20>1 Chronicles 21:20</verse></h3>



And Ornan turned back, and saw the angel; and his four sons with him (i) hid themselves. Now
Ornan was threshing wheat.



(i) If man hides himself at the sight of an angel who is a creature, how much more as a sinner able
to appear before the face of God?
#BCV:1 Chronicles 21:22
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 21:22>1 Chronicles 21:22</verse></h3>



Then David said to Ornan, Grant me the place of [this] threshingfloor, that I may build an (k) altar
therein unto the LORD: thou shalt grant it me for the full price: that the plague may be stayed from
the people.



(k) This he did by the command of God, (<bcv=1Ch 21:18>Ch1 21:18</bcv>), or else it would have been abominable, unless
he had either God's word, or revelation.

#BCV:1 Chronicles 21:24
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 21:24>1 Chronicles 21:24</verse></h3>



And king David said to Ornan, Nay; but I will verily buy it for the full (l) price: for I will not take
[that] which [is] thine for the LORD, nor offer burnt offerings without cost.



(l) That is, as much as it is worth: for having enough of his own, and yet to have taken of another
man's goods to offer to the Lord would had been theft and not acceptable to God.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 21:25
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 21:25>1 Chronicles 21:25</verse></h3>



So David gave to Ornan for the place (m) six hundred shekels of gold by weight.



(m) Read (<bcv=II Sa 24:24>Sa2 24:24</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 21:26
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 21:26>1 Chronicles 21:26</verse></h3>

<page=891>And David built there an altar unto the LORD, and offered burnt offerings and peace offerings, and
called upon the LORD; and he (n) answered him from heaven by fire upon the altar of burnt
offering.



(n) God declared that he heard his request, in that he sent down fire from heaven for they could use
no fire in sacrifice but that which was reserved still upon the altar, (<bcv=Lev 6:13>Lev 6:13</bcv>) and came down from
heaven, (<bcv=Lev 9:24>Lev 9:24</bcv>) as appeared by the punishment of Nadab and Abihu, (<bcv=Lev 10:1>Lev 10:1</bcv>).

<h2>1 Chronicles 22</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 22:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 22:1>1 Chronicles 22:1</verse></h3>

<page=892>Then David said, This [is] the (a) house of the LORD God, and this [is] the altar of the burnt
offering for Israel.



(a) That is, the place in which he will be worshipped.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 22:2
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 22:2>1 Chronicles 22:2</verse></h3>



And David commanded to gather together the (b) strangers that [were] in the land of Israel; and he
set masons to hew wrought stones to build the house of God.



(b) Meaning, cunning men of other nations who dwelt among the Jews.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 22:3
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 22:3>1 Chronicles 22:3</verse></h3>



And David prepared iron (c) in abundance for the nails for the doors of the gates, and for the
joinings; and brass in abundance without weight;



(c) That is, which weighed fifty shekels of gold, (<bcv=2Ch 3:9>Ch2 3:9</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 22:8
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 22:8>1 Chronicles 22:8</verse></h3>



But the word of the LORD came to me, saying, (d) Thou hast shed blood abundantly, and hast
made great wars: thou shalt not build an house unto my name, because thou hast shed much blood
upon the earth in my sight.



(d) This declares how greatly God detests the shedding of blood, seeing David for this cause is
prevented from building the temple of the Lord, though he enterprised no war, but by God's
command and against his enemies.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 22:11
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 22:11>1 Chronicles 22:11</verse></h3>



Now, my son, the LORD be with thee; and (e) prosper thou, and build the house of the LORD thy
God, as he hath said of thee.



(e) He shows that there can be no prosperity, but when the Lord is with us.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 22:12
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 22:12>1 Chronicles 22:12</verse></h3>



Only the LORD give thee (f) wisdom and understanding, and give thee charge concerning Israel,
that thou mayest keep the law of the LORD thy God.

<page=893>(f) These are only the means by which kings govern their subjects correctly, and by which the realms
prosper and flourish.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 22:14
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 22:14>1 Chronicles 22:14</verse></h3>



Now, behold, in my (g) trouble I have prepared for the house of the LORD an hundred thousand
talents of gold, and a million talents of silver; and of brass and iron without weight; for it is in
abundance: timber also and stone have I prepared; and thou mayest add thereto.



(g) For David was poor in respect to Solomon.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 22:16
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 22:16>1 Chronicles 22:16</verse></h3>



Of the gold, the silver, and the brass, and the iron, [there is] no number. (h) Arise [therefore], and be
doing, and the LORD be with thee.



(h) That is, go about it quickly.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 22:18
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 22:18>1 Chronicles 22:18</verse></h3>



[Is] not the LORD your God with you? and hath he [not] given you rest on every side? for he hath
given the (i) inhabitants of the land into mine hand; and the land is subdued before the LORD, and
before his people.



(i) The nations round about.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 22:19
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 22:19>1 Chronicles 22:19</verse></h3>



Now set (k) your heart and your soul to seek the LORD your God; arise therefore, and build ye the
sanctuary of the LORD God, to bring the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and the holy vessels
of God, into the house that is to be built to the name of the LORD.



(k) For else he knew that God would plague them, and not prosper their labour, unless they sought
with all their hearts to set forth his glory.

<h2>1 Chronicles 23</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 23:13
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 23:13>1 Chronicles 23:13</verse></h3>

<page=894>The sons of Amram; Aaron and Moses: and Aaron was separated, that he should (a) sanctify the
most holy things, he and his sons for ever, to burn incense before the LORD, to minister unto him,
and to bless in his name for ever.



(a) That is, to serve in the most holy place, and to consecrate the holy things.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 23:14
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 23:14>1 Chronicles 23:14</verse></h3>



Now [concerning] Moses the man of God, his sons were named of the (b) tribe of Levi.



(b) They were but of the order of the Levites and not of the priests as Aaron's sons.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 23:17
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 23:17>1 Chronicles 23:17</verse></h3>



And the sons of Eliezer [were], Rehabiah the (c) chief. And Eliezer had none other sons; but the
sons of Rehabiah were very many.



(c) The scripture calls him chief or first born even though he is alone and there is no one born after
him, (<bcv=Mat 1:25>Mat 1:25</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 23:22
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 23:22>1 Chronicles 23:22</verse></h3>



And Eleazar died, and had no sons, but daughters: and their (d) brethren the sons of Kish took
them.



(d) Meaning their cousins.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 23:24
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 23:24>1 Chronicles 23:24</verse></h3>



These [were] the sons of Levi after the house of their fathers; [even] the chief of the fathers, as they
were counted by number of names by their polls, that did the work for the service of the house of
the LORD, from the age of (e) twenty years and upward.



(e) David chose the Levites twice, first at the age of thirty as in (<bcv=1Ch 23:3Ch1 23:3</bcv>) and again afterward at
twenty as the office required: at the beginning they had no charge in the temple before they were
twenty-five years old, and had none after fifty, (<bcv=Num 4:3>Num 4:3</bcv>).

#BCV:1 Chronicles 23:28
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 23:28>1 Chronicles 23:28</verse></h3>

<page=895>Because their office [was] to wait on the sons of Aaron for the service of the house of the LORD,
in the courts, and in the chambers, and in the (f) purifying of all holy things, and the work of the
service of the house of God;



(f) In washing and cleansing all the holy vessels.

<h2>1 Chronicles 24</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 24:2
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 24:2>1 Chronicles 24:2</verse></h3>

<page=896>But Nadab and Abihu died (a) before their father, and had no children: therefore Eleazar and
Ithamar executed the priest's office.



(a) While their father yet lived.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 24:7
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 24:7>1 Chronicles 24:7</verse></h3>



Now the first (b) lot came forth to Jehoiarib, the second to Jedaiah,



(b) This lot was ordained to take away all occasion of envy or grudging of one against another.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 24:10
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 24:10>1 Chronicles 24:10</verse></h3>



The seventh to Hakkoz, the eighth to (c) Abijah,



(c) Zachariah the father of John the Baptist was of this course or lot of Abia, (<bcv=Luk 1:5>Luk 1:5</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 24:19
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 24:19>1 Chronicles 24:19</verse></h3>



These [were] the orderings of them in their service to come into the house of the LORD, according
to their manner, under (d) Aaron their father, as the LORD God of Israel had commanded him.



(d) By the dignity that God gave to Aaron.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 24:30
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 24:30>1 Chronicles 24:30</verse></h3>



The sons also of (e) Mushi; Mahli, and Eder, and Jerimoth. These [were] the sons of the Levites
after the house of their fathers.



(e) Who was the second son of Merari.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 24:31
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 24:31>1 Chronicles 24:31</verse></h3>



These likewise cast (f) lots over against their brethren the sons of Aaron in the presence of David
the king, and Zadok, and Ahimelech, and the chief of the fathers of the priests and Levites, even
the principal fathers over against their younger brethren.



(f) That is, every one had that honour which fell to him by lot.

<h2>1 Chronicles 25</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 25:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 25:1>1 Chronicles 25:1</verse></h3>

<page=897>Moreover David and the captains of the host (a) separated to the service of the sons of Asaph, and
of Heman, and of Jeduthun, who should prophesy with harps, with psalteries, and with cymbals:
and the number of the workmen according to their service was:



(a) The singers were divided into 24 courses, so that every course or order contained twelve, and in
all there were 288, as in (<bcv=1Ch 25:7>Ch1 25:7</bcv>).

#BCV:1 Chronicles 25:3
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 25:3>1 Chronicles 25:3</verse></h3>



Of Jeduthun: the sons of Jeduthun; Gedaliah, and Zeri, and Jeshaiah, Hashabiah, and Mattithiah, (b)
six, under the hands of their father Jeduthun, who (c) prophesied with a harp, to give thanks and to
praise the LORD.



(b) Of which one is not here numbered.



(c) Meaning, psalms and songs to praise God.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 25:8
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 25:8>1 Chronicles 25:8</verse></h3>



And they cast lots, (d) ward against [ward], as well the (e) small as the great, the teacher as the
scholar.



(d) Who should be in every company and course.



(e) Without respect to age or cunning.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 25:9
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 25:9>1 Chronicles 25:9</verse></h3>



Now the first lot came forth for Asaph to (f) Joseph: the second to Gedaliah, who with his brethren
and sons [were] twelve:



(f) So that he served in the first turn and the rest every one as his turn followed in order.

<h2>1 Chronicles 26</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 26:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 26:1>1 Chronicles 26:1</verse></h3>

<page=898>Concerning the divisions of the porters: Of the Korhites [was] Meshelemiah the son of Kore, of
the sons of (a) Asaph.



(a) This Asaph was not the notable musician, but another of that name also called Ebiasaph in (<bcv=1Ch 6:23>Ch1 6:23</bcv>, <bcv=1Ch 6:37>Ch1 6:37</bcv>, <bcv=1Ch 9:19>Ch1 9:19</bcv>) and also Jasaph.

#BCV:1 Chronicles 26:5
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 26:5>1 Chronicles 26:5</verse></h3>



Ammiel the sixth, Issachar the seventh, Peulthai the eighth: for God (b) blessed him.



(b) In giving him many children.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 26:6
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 26:6>1 Chronicles 26:6</verse></h3>



Also unto Shemaiah his son were sons born, that (c) ruled throughout the house of their father: for
they [were] mighty men of valour.



(c) Or, like their father's house, meaning, worthy men and valiant.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 26:8
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 26:8>1 Chronicles 26:8</verse></h3>



All these of the sons of Obededom: they and their sons and their brethren, able men for (d)
strength for the service, [were] threescore and two of Obededom.



(d) Fit to serve the office of the portership.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 26:12
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 26:12>1 Chronicles 26:12</verse></h3>



Among these [were] the divisions of the porters, [even] among the chief men, [having] wards one (e)
against another, to minister in the house of the LORD.



(e) According to their turns as well the one as the other.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 26:14
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 26:14>1 Chronicles 26:14</verse></h3>



And the lot eastward fell to Shelemiah. Then for Zechariah his son, (f) a wise counsellor, they cast
lots; and his lot came out northward.



(f) One expert and fit to keep that gate.

#BCV:1 Chronicles 26:15
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 26:15>1 Chronicles 26:15</verse></h3>


To Obededom southward; and to his sons the house of (g) Asuppim.



(g) This was a house where they used to resort to consult things concerning the temple, as a
convocation house.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 26:16
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 26:16>1 Chronicles 26:16</verse></h3>



To Shuppim and Hosah [the lot came forth] westward, with the gate (h) Shallecheth, by the
causeway of the going up, ward against ward.



(h) At which they used to cast out the filth of the city.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 26:17
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 26:17>1 Chronicles 26:17</verse></h3>



Eastward [were] six Levites, northward four a day, southward four a day, and toward Asuppim (i)
two [and] two.



(i) Meaning two one day and two another.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 26:18
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 26:18>1 Chronicles 26:18</verse></h3>



At (k) Parbar westward, four at the causeway, [and] two at Parbar.



(k) Which was a house in which they kept the instruments of the temple.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 26:23
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 26:23>1 Chronicles 26:23</verse></h3>



Of the (l) Amramites, [and] the Izharites, the Hebronites, [and] the Uzzielites:



(l) These also had charge over the treasures.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 26:26
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 26:26>1 Chronicles 26:26</verse></h3>



Which Shelomith and his brethren [were] over all the treasures of the dedicated things, which David
the king, and the chief fathers, the captains over thousands and hundreds, and the captains of the
host, had (m) dedicated.



(m) According as the Lord commanded, (<bcv=Num 31:28>Num 31:28</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 26:29
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 26:29>1 Chronicles 26:29</verse></h3>



Of the Izharites, Chenaniah and his sons [were] for the outward business (n) over Israel, for officers
and judges.

<page=900>(n) Meaning of things that were out of the city.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 26:30
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 26:30>1 Chronicles 26:30</verse></h3>



[And] of the Hebronites, Hashabiah and his brethren, men of valour, a thousand and seven hundred,
[were] officers among them of Israel on this side Jordan westward in all the business of the LORD,
and in the service of (o) the king.



(o) That is, for the king's house.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 26:32
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 26:32>1 Chronicles 26:32</verse></h3>



And his brethren, men of valour, [were] two thousand and seven hundred chief fathers, whom king
David made rulers over the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh, for every
matter pertaining to (q) God, and affairs of the king.



(q) Both in spiritual and temporal things.

<h2>1 Chronicles 27</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 27:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 27:1>1 Chronicles 27:1</verse></h3>

<page=901>Now the children of Israel after their number, [to wit], the chief fathers and captains of thousands
and hundreds, and their officers that served the king in any matter of the courses, (a) which came in
and went out month by month throughout all the months of the year, of every course [were] twenty
and four thousand.


(a) Who executed their charge and office, which is meant by coming in and going out.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 27:4
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 27:4>1 Chronicles 27:4</verse></h3>



And over the course of the second month [was] Dodai an Ahohite, and of his course [was] Mikloth
also the (b) ruler: in his course likewise [were] twenty and four thousand.



(b) That is, Dodais lieutenant.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 27:16
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 27:16>1 Chronicles 27:16</verse></h3>



Furthermore (c) over the tribes of Israel: the ruler of the Reubenites [was] Eliezer the son of Zichri:
of the Simeonites, Shephatiah the son of Maachah:



(c) Meaning besides those twelve captains.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 27:21
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 27:21>1 Chronicles 27:21</verse></h3>



Of the (d) half [tribe] of Manasseh in Gilead, Iddo the son of Zechariah: of Benjamin, Jaasiel the
son of Abner:



(d) Which is beyond Jordan in respect to Judah, also one captain was over the Reubenites and the
Gadites.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 27:24
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 27:24>1 Chronicles 27:24</verse></h3>



Joab the son of Zeruiah began to number, but he finished not, (e) because there fell wrath for it
against Israel; neither was the number put in the account of the (f) chronicles of king David.



(e) The commandment of the king was abominable to Joab, (<bcv=1Ch 21:6>Ch1 21:6</bcv>).



(f) The Hebrews make both these books of Chronicles but one, and at this verse make the middle
of the book concerning the number of verses.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 27:32
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 27:32>1 Chronicles 27:32</verse></h3>

<page=902>Also Jonathan David's uncle was a counsellor, a wise man, and a (g) scribe: and Jehiel the son of
Hachmoni [was] with the king's (h) sons:



(g) That is, a man learned in the word of God.



(h) To be their schoolmasters and teachers.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 27:34
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 27:34>1 Chronicles 27:34</verse></h3>



And (i) after Ahithophel [was] Jehoiada the son of Benaiah, and Abiathar: and the general of the
king's army [was] Joab.



(i) After Ahithophel hanged himself, (<bcv=II Sa 17:23>Sa2 17:23</bcv>), Jehoiada was made counsellor.

<h2>1 Chronicles 28</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 28:2
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 28:2>1 Chronicles 28:2</verse></h3>

<page=903>Then David the king stood up upon his feet, and said, Hear me, my brethren, and my people: [As
for me], I [had] in mine heart to build an house of (a) rest for the ark of the covenant of the LORD,
and for the footstool of our God, and had made ready for the building:



(a) Where the ark would stay and no longer move to and fro.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 28:4
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 28:4>1 Chronicles 28:4</verse></h3>



Howbeit the LORD God of Israel chose me before all the house of my father to be king over Israel
for ever: for he hath chosen Judah [to be] the ruler; and of the house of (b) Judah, the house of my
father; and among the sons of my father he liked me to make [me] king over all Israel:



(b) According to the prophecy of Jacob, (<bcv=Gen 49:8>Gen 49:8</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 28:7
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 28:7>1 Chronicles 28:7</verse></h3>



Moreover I will establish his kingdom for ever, if he be constant to do my commandments and my
judgments, as at (c) this day.



(c) If he continues to keep my law as he does now and doesn't depart from it.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 28:8
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 28:8>1 Chronicles 28:8</verse></h3>



Now therefore in the sight of all Israel the congregation of the LORD, and in the audience of our
God, keep and seek for all the commandments of the LORD your God: that ye may possess this (d)
good land, and leave [it] for an inheritance for your children after you (e) for ever.



(d) That is, of Canaan.



(e) He declares that nothing can separate them from the conveniences of this land, both for
themselves and their posterity except for their sins and iniquity.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 28:10
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 28:10>1 Chronicles 28:10</verse></h3>



Take heed now; for the LORD hath chosen thee to build (f) an house for the sanctuary: be strong,
and (g) do [it].



(f) Meaning, for his ark.



(g) Put it in execution.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 28:15
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 28:15>1 Chronicles 28:15</verse></h3>

<page=904>Even the weight for the (h) candlesticks of gold, and for their lamps of gold, by weight for every
candlestick, and for the lamps thereof: and for the candlesticks of silver by weight, [both] for the
candlestick, and [also] for the lamps thereof, according to the use of every candlestick.



(h) That is, the ten candlesticks, (<bcv=I Ki 7:49>Kg1 7:49</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 28:18
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 28:18>1 Chronicles 28:18</verse></h3>



And for the altar of incense refined gold by weight; and gold for the pattern of (i) the chariot of the
cherubims, that spread out [their wings], and covered the ark of the covenant of the LORD.



(i) Meaning, of the mercy seat that covered the ark, which was called the chariot, because the Lord
declared himself there.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 28:19
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 28:19>1 Chronicles 28:19</verse></h3>



All [this, said David], the LORD made me understand in writing (k) by [his] hand upon me, [even]
all the works of this pattern.



(k) For all this was left in writing in the book of the Law, (<bcv=Exo 25:40>Exo 25:40</bcv>), which the king was bound to
put in execution, (<bcv=Deu 17:19>Deu 17:19</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Chronicles 28:21
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 28:21>1 Chronicles 28:21</verse></h3>



And, behold, the courses of the priests and the Levites, [even they shall be with thee] for all the
service of the house of God: and [there shall be] with thee for all manner of workmanship (l) every
willing skilful man, for any manner of service: also the princes and all the people [will be] wholly at
thy commandment.



(l) That is, everyone will be ready to help you with those gifts that God has given him.

<h2>1 Chronicles 29</h2>

#BCV:1 Chronicles 29:1
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 29:1>1 Chronicles 29:1</verse></h3>

<page=905>Furthermore David the king said unto all the congregation, Solomon my son, whom alone God
hath chosen, [is yet] young and tender, and the work [is] great: for the palace [is] not for man, but for
the (a) LORD God.



(a) Therefore it should be excellent in all points.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 29:3
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 29:3>1 Chronicles 29:3</verse></h3>



Moreover, because I have set my (b) affection to the house of my God, I have of mine own proper
good, of gold and silver, [which] I have given to the house of my God, over and above all that I
have prepared for the holy house,



(b) His great zeal for the furtherance of the temple made him spare no expenses, but to bestow his
own peculiar treasure.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 29:4
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 29:4>1 Chronicles 29:4</verse></h3>



[Even] (c) three thousand talents of gold, of the gold of Ophir, and seven thousand talents of
refined silver, to overlay the walls of the houses [withal]:



(c) He shows what he had of his own store for the Lord's house.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 29:5
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 29:5>1 Chronicles 29:5</verse></h3>



The gold for [things] of gold, and the silver for [things] of silver, and for all manner of work [to be
made] by the hands of artificers. And who [then] is (d) willing to consecrate his service this day unto
the LORD?



(d) He was not only liberal himself but provoked others to set forth the work of God.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 29:8
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 29:8>1 Chronicles 29:8</verse></h3>



And they with whom [precious] stones were (e) found gave [them] to the treasure of the house of
the LORD, by the hand of Jehiel the Gershonite.



(e) Meaning, they who had any.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 29:9
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 29:9>1 Chronicles 29:9</verse></h3>

<page=906>Then the people rejoiced, for that they offered willingly, because with (f) perfect heart they offered
willingly to the LORD: and David the king also rejoiced with great joy.



(f) That is, with good courage and without hypocrisy.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 29:10
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 29:10>1 Chronicles 29:10</verse></h3>



Wherefore David blessed the LORD before all the congregation: and David said, Blessed [be] thou,
LORD God of (g) Israel our father, for ever and ever.



(g) Who revealed yourself to our father Jacob.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 29:14
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 29:14>1 Chronicles 29:14</verse></h3>



But who [am] I, and what [is] my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort?
for all things (h) [come] of thee, and of thine own have we given thee.



(h) We gave you nothing of our own, but that which we have received from you: for whether the
gifts are corporal or spiritual, we receive them all from God, and therefore must give him the glory.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 29:15
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 29:15>1 Chronicles 29:15</verse></h3>



For we [are] (i) strangers before thee, and sojourners, as [were] all our fathers: our days on the earth
[are] as a shadow, and [there is] none abiding.



(i) Therefore we have this land loaned to us for a time.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 29:18
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 29:18>1 Chronicles 29:18</verse></h3>



O LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, our fathers, keep this for ever in the (k)
imagination of the thoughts of the heart of thy people, and prepare their heart unto thee:



(k) Continue then in his good mind, that they may serve you willingly.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 29:20
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 29:20>1 Chronicles 29:20</verse></h3>



And David said to all the congregation, Now bless the LORD your God. And all the congregation
blessed the LORD God of their fathers, and bowed down their heads, and worshipped the LORD,
and the (l) king.



(l) That is, revered the king.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 29:21
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 29:21>1 Chronicles 29:21</verse></h3>

<page=907>And they sacrificed sacrifices unto the LORD, and offered burnt offerings unto the LORD, on the
morrow after that day, [even] a thousand bullocks, a thousand rams, [and] a thousand lambs, with
their (m) drink offerings, and sacrifices in abundance for all Israel:



(m) Meaning, all kinds of liquor which they mingled with their sacrifices, as wine, oil, etc.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 29:23
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 29:23>1 Chronicles 29:23</verse></h3>



Then Solomon sat on the (n) throne of the LORD as king instead of David his father, and
prospered; and all Israel obeyed him.



(n) This declares that the kings of Judah were figures of Christ, who was the true anointed, and to
whom God gave the chief government of all things.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 29:29
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 29:29>1 Chronicles 29:29</verse></h3>



Now the acts of David the king, first and last, behold, they [are] written in the book of Samuel the
seer, and in the book of (o) Nathan the prophet, and in the book of Gad the seer,



(o) The books of Nathan and Gad are thought to have been lost in the captivity.
#BCV:1 Chronicles 29:30
<h3><verse=1 Chronicles 29:30>1 Chronicles 29:30</verse></h3>



With all his reign and his might, and the (p) times that went over him, and over Israel, and over all
the kingdoms of the countries.



(p) Meaning the troubles and griefs.

<h1>2 Chronicles</h1>


<h2>2 Chronicles 1</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 1:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 1:1>2 Chronicles 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=909>And Solomon the son of David was strengthened in his kingdom, and the LORD his God [was]
with him, and magnified him exceedingly.



The Argument - This second book contains in brief the contents of the two books of the kings:
that is, from the reign of Solomon to the destruction of Jerusalem and the Babylonian captivity. In
this story some things are told in more detail than in the books of the kings and therefore help
greatly in the understanding of the prophets. Three things are chiefly to be considered here: First,
that when the godly kings saw the plagues of God prepared against their country for sin, they
turned to the Lord and by earnest prayer were heard, and the plagues removed. Secondly, while the
good rulers always loved the prophets of God and were zealous to set forth his religion throughout
their dominions, it offended God greatly that the wicked hated his ministers, deposed them and set
up idolatry and attempted served God according to the fantasy of men. Thus we have the chief acts
from the beginning of the world to the rebuilding of Jerusalem in the 32nd year of Darius, in total
3568 years and six months.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 1:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 1:2>2 Chronicles 1:2</verse></h3>



Then Solomon (a) spake unto all Israel, to the captains of thousands and of hundreds, and to the
judges, and to every governor in all Israel, the chief of the fathers.



(a) That is, he proclaimed a solemn sacrifice and commanded that all should attend.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 1:3
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 1:3>2 Chronicles 1:3</verse></h3>



So Solomon, and all the congregation with him, went to the high place that [was] at (b) Gibeon; for
there was the tabernacle (c) of the congregation of God, which Moses the servant of the LORD
had made in the wilderness.



(b) Read (<bcv=I Ki 3:4>Kg1 3:4</bcv>).



(c) So called, because by it God showed signs of his presence to the congregation.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 1:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 1:5>2 Chronicles 1:5</verse></h3>



Moreover the (d) brasen altar, that Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, had made, he put before
the tabernacle of the LORD: and Solomon and the congregation sought unto it.

<page=910>(d) Which was for the burnt offerings, <bcv=Exo 27:1>(Exo 27:1).</bcv>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 1:9
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 1:9>2 Chronicles 1:9</verse></h3>



Now, O LORD God, let thy promise unto David my father be (e) established: for thou hast made
me king over a people like the dust of the earth in multitude.



(e) Perform your promise made to my father concerning me.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 1:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 1:10>2 Chronicles 1:10</verse></h3>



Give me now wisdom and knowledge, that I may (f) go out and come in before this people: for who
can judge this thy people, [that is so] great?



(f) That I may govern this people, (<bcv=1Ch 27:1>Ch1 27:1</bcv>;<bcv=1Ki 3:7> Kg1 3:7).</bcv>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 1:11
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 1:11>2 Chronicles 1:11</verse></h3>



And God said to Solomon, Because this was in thine heart, and thou hast not asked riches, wealth,
or honour, nor the (g) life of thine enemies, neither yet hast asked long life; but hast asked wisdom
and knowledge for thyself, that thou mayest judge my people, over whom I have made thee king:



(g) That is, to be avenged on your enemies.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 1:14
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 1:14>2 Chronicles 1:14</verse></h3>



And Solomon gathered chariots and horsemen: and he had a thousand and four hundred chariots,
and twelve thousand horsemen, which he placed in the (h) chariot cities, and with the king at
Jerusalem.



(h) Which were cities appointed to keep and maintain the chariots.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 1:15
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 1:15>2 Chronicles 1:15</verse></h3>



And the king made silver and gold at Jerusalem [as plenteous] as (i) stones, and cedar trees made he
as the sycomore trees that [are] in the vale for abundance.



(i) He caused so great plenty that it was valued no more than stones.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 1:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 1:16>2 Chronicles 1:16</verse></h3>



And Solomon had horses brought out of Egypt, and linen yarn: (k) the king's merchants received
the linen yarn at a price.

<page=911>(k) Read <bcv=1Ki 20:28>(Kg1 20:28).</bcv>

<h2>2 Chronicles 2</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 2:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 2:2>2 Chronicles 2:2</verse></h3>

<page=912>And Solomon told out threescore and ten thousand men to bear burdens, and fourscore thousand to
hew in the mountain, and three thousand and (a) six hundred to oversee them.



(a) Which is to be understood of all sorts of officers and overseers: for else the chief officers were
but 3300 as in (<bcv=I Ki 5:16>Kg1 5:16</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 2:6
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 2:6>2 Chronicles 2:6</verse></h3>



But who is able to build him an house, seeing the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain him?
who [am] I then, that I should build him an house, save only to burn (b) sacrifice before him?



(b) That is, to do the service which he has commanded, signifying that no one is able to honour and
serve God in the perfection his majesty deserves.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 2:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 2:8>2 Chronicles 2:8</verse></h3>



Send me also cedar trees, fir trees, and (c) algum trees, out of Lebanon: for I know that thy servants
can skill to cut timber in Lebanon; and, behold, my servants [shall be] with thy servants,



(c) Some take it for Brazil, or the wood called Ebenum, others for coral.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 2:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 2:10>2 Chronicles 2:10</verse></h3>



And, behold, I will give to thy servants, the hewers that cut timber, twenty thousand measures of
beaten wheat, and twenty thousand measures of barley, and twenty thousand baths of wine, and
twenty (d) thousand baths of oil.



(d) Of "bath" read (<bcv=I Ki 7:26>Kg1 7:26</bcv>). It is also called ephah, but an ephah measures dry things as a bath is a
measure for liquids.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 2:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 2:12>2 Chronicles 2:12</verse></h3>



Huram said moreover, Blessed [be] the LORD God of Israel, that made heaven and earth, who hath
given to David the king a (e) wise son, endued with prudence and understanding, that might build an
house for the LORD, and an house for his kingdom.



(e) The very heavens confessed that it was a singular gift of God when he gave to any nation a king
that was wise and of understanding, though it appears that this Hiram had the true knowledge of
God.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 2:14
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 2:14>2 Chronicles 2:14</verse></h3>

<page=913>The son of a woman of the (f) daughters of Dan, and his father [was] a man of Tyre, skilful to work
in gold, and in silver, in brass, in iron, in stone, and in timber, in purple, in blue, and in fine linen,
and in crimson; also to grave any manner of graving, and to find out every device which shall be put
to him, with thy cunning men, and with the cunning men of my lord David thy father.



(f) It is also written that she was of the tribe of Naphtali, (<bcv=I Ki 7:14>Kg1 7:14</bcv>) which may be understood that
by reason of the confusion of tribes which then began to be, they married in various tribes so that
by her father she might be of Dan and by her mother of Naphtali.

<h2>2 Chronicles 3</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 3:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 3:1>2 Chronicles 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=914>Then Solomon began to build the house of the LORD at Jerusalem in mount (a) Moriah, where [the
LORD] appeared unto David his father, in the place that David had prepared in the threshingfloor
of Ornan the Jebusite.



(a) Which is the mountain where Abraham was thought to have sacrificed his son, (<bcv=Gen 22:2>Gen 22:2</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 3:3
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 3:3>2 Chronicles 3:3</verse></h3>



Now these [are the things wherein] Solomon was instructed for the building of the house of God.
The length by cubits after the first (b) measure [was] threescore cubits, and the breadth twenty cubits.



(b) According to the whole length of the temple,
#BCV:2 Chronicles 3:4
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 3:4>2 Chronicles 3:4</verse></h3>



And the porch that [was] in the front [of the house], the length [of it was] according to the (c)
breadth of the house, twenty cubits, and the height [was] an (d) hundred and twenty: and he overlaid
it within with pure gold.



(c) It contained as much as the breadth of the temple did, (<bcv=I Ki 6:3>Kg1 6:3</bcv>).



(d) From the foundation to the top: for in the book of the kings mention is made from the
foundation to the first stage.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 3:6
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 3:6>2 Chronicles 3:6</verse></h3>



And he garnished the house with precious stones for beauty: and the gold [was] gold of (e) Parvaim.



(e) Some think it is Peru.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 3:14
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 3:14>2 Chronicles 3:14</verse></h3>



And he made the (f) vail [of] blue, and purple, and crimson, and fine linen, and wrought cherubims
thereon.



(f) Which separated the temple from the most holy place.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 3:15
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 3:15>2 Chronicles 3:15</verse></h3>

<page=915>Also he made before the house two pillars of (g) thirty and five cubits high, and the chapiter that
[was] on the top of each of them [was] five cubits.



(g) Every one was eighteen cubits long, but the half cubit could not be seen, for it was hid in the
roundness of the chapiter, and therefore he gives to every one only 17 and a half.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 3:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 3:16>2 Chronicles 3:16</verse></h3>



And he made chains, [as] in the oracle, and put [them] on the heads of the pillars; and made an (h)
hundred pomegranates, and put [them] on the chains.



(h) For every pillar a hundred, read (<bcv=I Ki 7:20>Kg1 7:20</bcv>).

<h2>2 Chronicles 4</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 4:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 4:2>2 Chronicles 4:2</verse></h3>

<page=916>Also he made a molten (a) sea of ten cubits from brim to brim, round in compass, and five cubits
the height thereof; and a line of thirty cubits did compass it round about.

(a) A great vessel of brass, so called because of the great quantity of water which it contained, <bcv=1Ki 7:24>(Kg1 7:24).</bcv>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 4:3
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 4:3>2 Chronicles 4:3</verse></h3>



And under (b) it [was] the similitude of oxen, which did compass it round about: (c) ten in a cubit,
compassing the sea round about. Two rows of oxen [were] cast, when it was cast.



(b) Meaning, under the brim of the sea, (<bcv=I Ki 7:24>Kg1 7:24</bcv>).



(c) In the length of every cubit were ten heads or knops which in all are 300.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 4:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 4:5>2 Chronicles 4:5</verse></h3>



And the thickness of it [was] an handbreadth, and the brim of it like the work of the brim of a cup,
with flowers of lilies; [and] it received and held (d) three thousand baths.



(d) In the first book of the kings, (<bcv=I Ki 7:26>Kg1 7:26</bcv>), mention is only made of 2000, but the lesser number
was taken there, and here according as the measures proved afterwards, is declared.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 4:7
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 4:7>2 Chronicles 4:7</verse></h3>



And he made ten candlesticks of gold according to (e) their form, and set [them] in the temple, five
on the right hand, and five on the left.



(e) Even as they should be made.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 4:9
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 4:9>2 Chronicles 4:9</verse></h3>



Furthermore he made the court of the priests, and the great (f) court, and doors for the court, and
overlaid the doors of them with brass.



(f) Called also the porch of Solomon, (<bcv=Acts 3:11>Act 3:11</bcv>). It is also taken for the temple where Christ
preached, (<bcv=Mat 21:23>Mat 21:23</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 4:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 4:16>2 Chronicles 4:16</verse></h3>

<page=917>The pots also, and the shovels, and the fleshhooks, and all their instruments, did Huram (g) his
father make to king Solomon for the house of the LORD of bright brass.



(g) Whom Solomon reverenced for the gifts that God had given him, as a father; he had the same
name as Huram the king of Tyrus, his mother was a Jewess, and his father a Tyrian. Some read, for
his father, the author of this work.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 4:19
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 4:19>2 Chronicles 4:19</verse></h3>



And Solomon made all the vessels that [were for] the house of God, the golden altar also, and the
tables whereon the (h) shewbread [was set];



(h) In Hebrew, the bread of the faces because they were set before the ark, where the Lord showed
his presence.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 4:22
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 4:22>2 Chronicles 4:22</verse></h3>



And the snuffers, and the basons, and the spoons, and the censers, [of] pure gold: and the entry of
the house, the inner doors thereof for the most holy [place], and the doors of the house of the
temple, [were (i) of] gold.



(i) That is, covered with plates of gold.

<h2>2 Chronicles 5</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 5:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 5:2>2 Chronicles 5:2</verse></h3>

<page=918>Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel, and all the heads of the tribes, the chief of the
fathers of the children of Israel, unto Jerusalem, to bring up the ark of the covenant of the LORD
out of the (a) city of David, which [is] Zion.



(a) Read (<bcv=II Sa 6:12>Sa2 6:12</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 5:3
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 5:3>2 Chronicles 5:3</verse></h3>



Wherefore all the men of Israel assembled themselves unto the king in the (b) feast which [was] in
the seventh (c) month.



(b) When the things were dedicated and brought into the temple.



(c) Called in Hebrew <transhebrew>Ethanim,<english> containing part of September and part of October, (<bcv=I Ki 8:2>Kg1 8:2</bcv>), which
moves the Jews called the first month, because they say that the world was created in that month,
and after they came from Egypt, they began at March: but because this opinion is uncertain, we
always make March the first as the best writers do.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 5:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 5:10>2 Chronicles 5:10</verse></h3>



[There was] nothing in the ark save (d) the two tables which Moses put [therein] at Horeb, when the
LORD made [a covenant] with the children of Israel, when they came out of Egypt.



(d) For Aaron's rod and manna were taken from there before it was brought to this place.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 5:11
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 5:11>2 Chronicles 5:11</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when the priests were come out of the holy [place]: (for all the priests [that
were] present were (e) sanctified, [and] did not [then] wait by course:



(e) Were prepared to serve the Lord.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 5:13
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 5:13>2 Chronicles 5:13</verse></h3>



It came even to pass, as the trumpeters and singers [were] (f) as one, to make one sound to be heard
in praising and thanking the LORD; and when they lifted up [their] voice with the trumpets and
cymbals and instruments of musick, and praised the LORD, [saying], (g) For [he is] good; for his
mercy [endureth] for ever: that [then] the house was filled with a cloud, [even] the house of the
LORD;

<page=919>(f) They all played the same tune.



(g) This was the effect of their songs, (<bcv=Psa 118:1>Psa 118:1</bcv>,<bcv=Psa 136:1> Psa 136:1</bcv>).

<h2>2 Chronicles 6</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 6:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 6:1>2 Chronicles 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=920>Then (a) said Solomon, The LORD hath said that he would dwell in the thick darkness.



(a) After he had seen the glory of the Lord in the cloud.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 6:11
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 6:11>2 Chronicles 6:11</verse></h3>



And in it have I put the ark, wherein [is] the (b) covenant of the LORD, that he made with the
children of Israel.



(b) Meaning the two tables, in which is contained the effect of the covenant that God made with our
fathers.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 6:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 6:12>2 Chronicles 6:12</verse></h3>



And (c) he stood before the altar of the LORD in the presence of all the congregation of Israel,
and spread forth his hands:



(c) On a scaffold that was made for that purpose, that he praying for the whole people might be
heard by all, as in (<bcv=I Ki 8:22>Kg1 8:22</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 6:13
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 6:13>2 Chronicles 6:13</verse></h3>



For Solomon had made a brasen scaffold, of five cubits long, and five cubits broad, and three cubits
high, and had set it in the midst of the court: and upon it he stood, and kneeled down upon his
knees before all the congregation of Israel, and (d) spread forth his hands toward heaven,



(d) Both to give thanks for the great benefits of God bestowed on him, and also to pray for the
perseverance and prosperity of his people.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 6:20
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 6:20>2 Chronicles 6:20</verse></h3>



That thine (e) eyes may be open upon this house day and night, upon the place whereof thou hast
said that thou wouldest put thy name there; to hearken unto the prayer which thy servant prayeth
toward this place.



(e) That you may declare in effect that you have a continual care over this place.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 6:22
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 6:22>2 Chronicles 6:22</verse></h3>

<page=921>If a man sin against his (f) neighbour, and an oath be laid upon him to make him swear, and the
oath come before thine altar in this house;



(f) By retaining anything from him, or by denying that which he has left him to keep, or do him any
wrong.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 6:23
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 6:23>2 Chronicles 6:23</verse></h3>



Then hear thou from heaven, and do, and judge thy servants, by requiting the wicked, by
recompensing his way (g) upon his own head; and by justifying the righteous, by giving him
according to his righteousness.



(g) Meaning, to give him that which he has deserved.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 6:30
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 6:30>2 Chronicles 6:30</verse></h3>



Then hear thou from heaven thy dwelling place, and forgive, and render unto every man according
unto all his ways, whose (h) heart thou knowest; (for thou only knowest the hearts of the children
of men:)



(h) He declares that the prayers of hypocrites cannot be heard, nor of any but of them who pray to
God with a true faith and in true repentance.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 6:32
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 6:32>2 Chronicles 6:32</verse></h3>



Moreover concerning the stranger, which is not of thy people Israel, but is come from a far country
for thy great name's sake, and thy mighty hand, and thy stretched out arm; if they come and (i) pray
in this house;



(i) He shows that before God there is no deception of person, but all people who fear him and work
righteousness are accepted, (<bcv=Acts 10:35>Act 10:35</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 6:34
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 6:34>2 Chronicles 6:34</verse></h3>



If thy people go out to war against their enemies by the way that (k) thou shalt send them, and they
pray unto thee toward this city which thou hast chosen, and the house which I have built for thy
name;



(k) Meaning, that no one should enterprise any war, but at the Lord's command, that is, which is
lawful by his word.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 6:41
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 6:41>2 Chronicles 6:41</verse></h3>

<page=922>Now therefore arise, O LORD God, into thy (l) resting place, thou, and the ark of thy strength: let
thy priests, O LORD God, be clothed with (m) salvation, and let thy saints rejoice in goodness.



(l) That is, into your temple.



(m) Let them be preserved by your power, and made virtuous and holy.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 6:42
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 6:42>2 Chronicles 6:42</verse></h3>



O LORD God, turn not away the face of (n) thine anointed: remember the mercies of David thy
servant.



(n) Hear my prayer, I who am your anointed king.

<h2>2 Chronicles 7</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 7:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 7:1>2 Chronicles 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=923>Now when Solomon had made an end of praying, the (a) fire came down from heaven, and
consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices; and the glory of the LORD filled the house.



(a) By this God declared that he was pleased with Solomon's prayer.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 7:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 7:8>2 Chronicles 7:8</verse></h3>



Also at the same time Solomon kept (b) the feast seven days, and all Israel with him, a very great
congregation, from the entering in of Hamath unto the river of Egypt.



(b) The feast of the tabernacles which was kept in the seventh month.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 7:9
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 7:9>2 Chronicles 7:9</verse></h3>



And in the eighth day they (c) made a solemn assembly: for they kept the dedication of the altar
seven days, and the feast seven days.



(c) They assembled to hear the word of God, after they had remained seven days in the booths or
tabernacles.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 7:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 7:10>2 Chronicles 7:10</verse></h3>



And on the (d) three and twentieth day of the seventh month he sent the people away into their
tents, glad and merry in heart for the goodness that the LORD had shewed unto David, and to
Solomon, and to Israel his people.



(d) They had permission to depart on the 22nd day, (<bcv=I Ki 8:66>Kg1 8:66</bcv>) but they did not leave till the next day.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 7:14
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 7:14>2 Chronicles 7:14</verse></h3>



If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face,
and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will (e)
heal their land.



(e) I will cause the pestilence to cease and destroy the beasts that hurt the fruit of the earth, and
send rain in due season.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 7:20
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 7:20>2 Chronicles 7:20</verse></h3>

<page=924>Then will I pluck them up by the roots out of my land which I have given them; and this house,
which I have (f) sanctified for my name, will I cast out of my sight, and will make it [to be] a proverb
and a byword among all nations.



(f) Declaring that God had more concern for their salvation than for the advancement of his own
glory: and where men abuse those things which God has appointed to set forth his praise, he
withdraws his graces.

<h2>2 Chronicles 8</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 8:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 8:1>2 Chronicles 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=925>And it came to pass at the end of (a) twenty years, wherein Solomon had built the house of the
LORD, and his own house,



(a) Signifying that he was 20 years in building them.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 8:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 8:2>2 Chronicles 8:2</verse></h3>



That the cities which Huram had (b) restored to Solomon, Solomon built them, and caused the
children of Israel to dwell there.



(b) That is, which Hiram gave again to Solomon because they did not please him and therefore
called them Cabul, that is, dirt or filth, (<bcv=I Ki 9:13>Kg1 9:13</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 8:4
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 8:4>2 Chronicles 8:4</verse></h3>



And he built Tadmor in the wilderness, and all the (c) store cities, which he built in Hamath.



(c) Meaning of munitions and treasures for the war.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 8:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 8:5>2 Chronicles 8:5</verse></h3>



Also he built (d) Bethhoron the upper, and Bethhoron the nether, fenced cities, with walls, gates, and
bars;



(d) That is, he repaired and fortified them, for they were built long before by Sherah a noble woman
of the tribe of Ephraim, (<bcv=1Ch 6:68>Ch1 6:68</bcv>, <bcv=1Ch 7:24>Ch1 7:24</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Chronicles 8:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 8:10>2 Chronicles 8:10</verse></h3>



And these [were] the chief of king Solomon's officers, [even] (f) two hundred and fifty, that bare
rule over the people.



(f) For in all there were 3300 but here he means of them who had the principal charge, (<bcv=I Ki 9:23>Kg1 9:23</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 8:13
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 8:13>2 Chronicles 8:13</verse></h3>



Even after a certain rate every day, offering according to the commandment of Moses, on the
sabbaths, and on the new moons, and on the solemn feasts, (g) three times in the year, [even] in the
feast of unleavened bread, and in the feast of weeks, and in the feast of tabernacles.

<page=926>(g) Read <bcv=Lev 23:1-44>(Lev. 23:1-44).</bcv>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 8:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 8:16>2 Chronicles 8:16</verse></h3>



Now all the (h) work of Solomon was prepared unto the day of the foundation of the house of the
LORD, and until it was finished. [So] the house of the LORD was perfected.



(h) Both for the matte and also for the workmanship.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 8:17
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 8:17>2 Chronicles 8:17</verse></h3>



Then went Solomon to Eziongeber, and to Eloth, at the (i) sea side in the land of Edom.



(i) Meaning, the Red Sea.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 8:18
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 8:18>2 Chronicles 8:18</verse></h3>



And Huram sent him by the hands of his servants ships, and servants that had knowledge of the sea;
and they went with the servants of Solomon to Ophir, and took thence (k) four hundred and fifty
talents of gold, and brought [them] to king Solomon.



(k) Which is thought to amount to 3,600,000 crowns, for here mention is made of 30 more than are
spoken of, (<bcv=I Ki 9:28>Kg1 9:28</bcv>).

<h2>2 Chronicles 9</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 9:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 9:1>2 Chronicles 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=927>And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon, she came to (a) prove Solomon with
hard questions at Jerusalem, with a very great company, and camels that bare spices, and gold in
abundance, and precious stones: and when she was come to Solomon, she communed with him of
all that was in her heart.



(a) To know whether his wisdom was as great as the report was.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 9:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 9:2>2 Chronicles 9:2</verse></h3>



And Solomon told her all her questions: and there was (b) nothing hid from Solomon which he told
her not.



(b) There was no question so hard that he did not resolve.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 9:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 9:8>2 Chronicles 9:8</verse></h3>



Blessed be the LORD thy God, which delighted in thee to set thee on his (c) throne, [to be] king for
the LORD thy God: because thy God loved Israel, to establish them for ever, therefore made he
thee king over them, to do judgment and justice.



(c) Meaning, that the Israelites were God's peculiar people, and that kings are the lieutenants of God,
who ought to grant to him the superiority and administer justice to all.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 9:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 9:10>2 Chronicles 9:10</verse></h3>



And the servants also of Huram, and the servants of Solomon, which brought gold from Ophir,
brought (d) algum trees and precious stones.



(d) Read (<bcv=2Ch 2:8>Ch2 2:8</bcv>, <bcv=1Kings 10:11>Kg1 10:11</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Chronicles 9:11
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 9:11>2 Chronicles 9:11</verse></h3>



And the king made [of] the algum trees (e) terraces to the house of the LORD, and to the king's
palace, and harps and psalteries for singers: and there were none such seen before in the land of
Judah.



(e) Or pillars: meaning the garnishing and trimming of the stairs or pillars.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 9:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 9:12>2 Chronicles 9:12</verse></h3>

<page=928>And king Solomon gave to the queen of Sheba all her desire, whatsoever she asked, (f) beside [that]
which she had brought unto the king. So she turned, and went away to her own land, she and her
servants.



(f) That is, which the king gave her for recompense of the treasure which she brought.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 9:15
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 9:15>2 Chronicles 9:15</verse></h3>



And king Solomon made two hundred targets [of] beaten gold: (g) six hundred [shekels] of beaten
gold went to one target.



(g) Which amounts to 2400 crowns of the sun.



(h) Or pounds, called mina, of which every one seemed to make a hundred shekels.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 9:18
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 9:18>2 Chronicles 9:18</verse></h3>



And [there were] six steps to the throne, with a footstool of gold, [which were] (i) fastened to the
throne, and stays on each side of the sitting place, and two lions standing by the (k) stays:



(i) That is, the steps and the footstool were fastened to the throne.



(k) Upon the pommels or knops.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 9:21
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 9:21>2 Chronicles 9:21</verse></h3>



For the king's ships went to Tarshish with the servants of Huram: every three years once came the
ships of (l) Tarshish bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks.



(l) Which is thought by the best writers to be Cilicia, (<bcv=I Ki 10:22>Kg1 10:22</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 9:25
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 9:25>2 Chronicles 9:25</verse></h3>



And Solomon had (m) four thousand stalls for horses and chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen;
whom he bestowed in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem.



(m) That is, ten horses in every stable, which in all amounts to 40,000 as in (<bcv=I Ki 4:26>Kg1 4:26</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 9:27
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 9:27>2 Chronicles 9:27</verse></h3>



And the king made silver in Jerusalem (n) as stones, and cedar trees made he as the sycomore trees
that [are] in the low plains in abundance.



(n) The abundance of those temporal treasures in Solomon's kingdom is a figure of the spiritual
treasures which the elect will enjoy in the heavens under the true Solomon, Christ.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 9:29
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 9:29>2 Chronicles 9:29</verse></h3>

<page=929>Now the rest of the acts of Solomon, first and last, [are] they not written in the book of Nathan the
prophet, and in the prophecy of Ahijah the Shilonite, and in the visions of Iddo the seer (o) against
Jeroboam the son of Nebat?



(o) That is, who prophesied against him.

<h2>2 Chronicles 10</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 10:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 10:1>2 Chronicles 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=930>And Rehoboam (a) went to Shechem: for to Shechem were all Israel come to make him king.



(a) After the death of Solomon.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 10:4
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 10:4>2 Chronicles 10:4</verse></h3>



Thy father (b) made our yoke grievous: now therefore ease thou somewhat the grievous servitude of
thy father, and his heavy yoke that he put upon us, and we will serve thee.



(b) That is, handled us rudely, it seems that God hardened their hearts, so that they murmured
without cause, which declares also the inconstancy of the people.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 10:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 10:8>2 Chronicles 10:8</verse></h3>



But he forsook the counsel which the old men gave him, and took counsel with the young men that
were brought up with him, that (c) stood before him.



(c) Or, that stood by him, that is, which were of his counsel and secrets.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 10:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 10:10>2 Chronicles 10:10</verse></h3>



And the young men that were brought up with him spake unto him, saying, Thus shalt thou answer
the people that spake unto thee, saying, Thy father made our yoke heavy, but make thou [it]
somewhat lighter for us; thus shalt thou say unto them, My (d) little [finger] shall be thicker than my
father's loins.



(d) Or, little finger, meaning that he was of far greater power than his father was.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 10:15
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 10:15>2 Chronicles 10:15</verse></h3>



So the king hearkened not unto the people: for the (e) cause was of God, that the LORD might
perform his word, which he spake by the hand of Ahijah the Shilonite to Jeroboam the son of
Nebat.



(e) God's will overrides all so that nothing can be done but according to the same, and yet man's will
works by itself, so that he cannot use the excuse that his deed was of God's ordinance.

<h2>2 Chronicles 11</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 11:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 11:1>2 Chronicles 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=931>And when Rehoboam was come to Jerusalem, he gathered of the house of Judah and (a) Benjamin
an hundred and fourscore thousand chosen [men], which were warriors, to fight against (b) Israel,
that he might bring the kingdom again to Rehoboam.



(a) That is, the half tribe of Benjamin for the other half went after Jeroboam.



(b) Meaning the ten tribes who rebelled.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 11:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 11:5>2 Chronicles 11:5</verse></h3>



And Rehoboam dwelt in Jerusalem, and (c) built cities for defence in Judah.



(c) Or, repaired them and made them strong to be more able to resist Jeroboam.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 11:15
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 11:15>2 Chronicles 11:15</verse></h3>



And he ordained him priests for the high places, and for the (d) devils, and for the calves which he
had made.



(d) Meaning idols, (<bcv=Isa 44:15>Isa 44:15</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 11:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 11:16>2 Chronicles 11:16</verse></h3>



And after them out of all the tribes of Israel such as set their (e) hearts to seek the LORD God of
Israel came to Jerusalem, to sacrifice unto the LORD God of their fathers.



(e) Who were zealous of true religion and feared God.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 11:17
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 11:17>2 Chronicles 11:17</verse></h3>



So they strengthened the kingdom of Judah, and made Rehoboam the son of Solomon strong, three
years: for three years they (f) walked in the way of David and Solomon.



(f) As long as they feared God, and set forth his word, they prospered.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 11:22
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 11:22>2 Chronicles 11:22</verse></h3>



And Rehoboam made (g) Abijah the son of Maachah the chief, [to be] ruler among his brethren: for
[he thought] to make him king.



(g) Called also Abijam, who reigned three years, (<bcv=I Ki 15:2>Kg1 15:2</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 11:23
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 11:23>2 Chronicles 11:23</verse></h3>

<page=932>And he dealt wisely, and dispersed of all his children throughout all the countries of Judah and
Benjamin, unto every fenced city: and he gave them victual in abundance. And he (h) desired many
wives.



(h) He gave himself to have many wives.

<h2>2 Chronicles 12</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 12:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 12:1>2 Chronicles 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=933>And it came to pass, when Rehoboam had established the kingdom, and had strengthened himself,
he forsook the law of the LORD, and (a) all Israel with him.



(a) For such is the inconstancy of the people, that for the most part they follow the vices of their
governors.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 12:3
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 12:3>2 Chronicles 12:3</verse></h3>



With twelve hundred chariots, and threescore thousand horsemen: and the people [were] without
number that came with him out of Egypt; the Lubims, the (b) Sukkiims, and the Ethiopians.



(b) Who were a people of Africa called the Troglodytes because they lived in holes.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 12:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 12:5>2 Chronicles 12:5</verse></h3>



Then came Shemaiah the prophet to Rehoboam, and [to] the princes of Judah, that were gathered
together to Jerusalem because of Shishak, and said unto them, Thus saith the LORD, Ye have
forsaken me, and (c) therefore have I also left you in the hand of Shishak.



(c) Signifying that no calamity can come to us unless we forsake God, and that he never leaves us till
we have cast him off.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 12:6
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 12:6>2 Chronicles 12:6</verse></h3>



Whereupon the princes of Israel and the king humbled themselves; and they said, The LORD [is] (d)
righteous.



(d) Therefore he justly punishes you for your sins.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 12:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 12:8>2 Chronicles 12:8</verse></h3>



Nevertheless they shall be his servants; that they may know my (e) service, and the service of the
kingdoms of the countries.



(e) He shows that God's punishments are not to utterly destroy his, but to chastise them, to bring
them to the knowledge of themselves, and to know how much better it is to serve God than tyrants.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 12:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 12:12>2 Chronicles 12:12</verse></h3>

<page=934>And when he (f) humbled himself, the wrath of the LORD turned from him, that he would not
destroy [him] altogether: and also in Judah things went well.



(f) Which declares that God does not seek the death of a sinner, but his conversion, (<bcv=Ezek 18:32>Eze 18:32</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 12:13
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 12:13>2 Chronicles 12:13</verse></h3>



So king Rehoboam strengthened himself in Jerusalem, and reigned: for Rehoboam [was] one and
forty years old when he began to reign, and he reigned (g) seventeen years in Jerusalem, the city
which the LORD had chosen out of all the tribes of Israel, to put his name there. And his mother's
name [was] Naamah an Ammonitess.



(g) That is, twelve years after he had been overcome by Shishak, (<bcv=2Ch 12:2>Ch2 12:2</bcv>).

<h2>2 Chronicles 13</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 13:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 13:1>2 Chronicles 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=935>Now in the eighteenth year of king Jeroboam began Abijah to reign over (a) Judah.



(a) He means Judah and Benjamin.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 13:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 13:2>2 Chronicles 13:2</verse></h3>



He reigned three years in Jerusalem. His mother's name also [was] (b) Michaiah the daughter of (c)
Uriel of Gibeah. And there was war between Abijah and Jeroboam.



(b) Or Maacah, (<bcv=I Ki 15:2>Kg1 15:2</bcv>).



(c) Called also Absalom, for Absalom was her grandfather, (<bcv=I Ki 15:2>Kg1 15:2</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 13:4
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 13:4>2 Chronicles 13:4</verse></h3>



And Abijah stood up upon mount (d) Zemaraim, which [is] in mount Ephraim, and said, Hear me,
thou Jeroboam, and all Israel;



(d) Which was one of the peaks of mount Ephraim.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 13:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 13:5>2 Chronicles 13:5</verse></h3>



Ought ye not to know that the LORD God of Israel gave the kingdom over Israel to (e) David for
ever, [even] to him and to his sons by a covenant of salt?



(e) Therefore whoever usurps it or takes it from that stock transgresses the ordinance of the Lord.
Thus like a hypocrite he alleges the word of God for his advantage.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 13:7
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 13:7>2 Chronicles 13:7</verse></h3>



And there are gathered unto him (g) vain men, the children of Belial, and have strengthened
themselves against Rehoboam the son of Solomon, when Rehoboam was (h) young and
tenderhearted, and could not withstand them.



(g) This word in the Chaldee tongue is Racha, which our saviour uses, (<bcv=Mat 5:22>Mat 5:22</bcv>).



(h) Meaning, in heart and courage.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 13:9
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 13:9>2 Chronicles 13:9</verse></h3>

<page=936>Have ye not cast out the priests of the LORD, the sons of Aaron, and the Levites, and have made
you priests after the manner of the nations of [other] lands? so that whosoever cometh to
consecrate himself with a (i) young bullock and seven rams, [the same] may be a priest of [them that
are] no gods.



(i) He shows the nature of idolaters who take no trial of the calling, life and doctrine of their
ministers, but think the most vile and greatest beasts sufficient to serve their turn.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 13:11
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 13:11>2 Chronicles 13:11</verse></h3>



And they burn unto the LORD every (k) morning and every evening burnt sacrifices and sweet
incense: the shewbread also [set they in order] upon the pure table; and the candlestick of gold with
the lamps thereof, to burn every evening: for we keep the charge of the LORD our God; but ye
have forsaken him.



(k) As it was appointed in the law, (<bcv=Exo 29:39>Exo 29:39</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 13:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 13:12>2 Chronicles 13:12</verse></h3>



And, behold, God himself [is] (l) with us for [our] captain, and his priests with sounding trumpets to
cry alarm against you. O children of Israel, fight ye not against the LORD God of your fathers; for
ye shall not prosper.



(l) Because their cause was good and approved by the Lord, they did not doubt the success and
victory.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 13:13
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 13:13>2 Chronicles 13:13</verse></h3>



But Jeroboam caused an ambushment (m) to come about behind them: so they were before Judah,
and the ambushment [was] behind them.



(m) Contemning the good counsel which came from the Spirit of God, he thought to have
overcome by deceit.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 13:18
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 13:18>2 Chronicles 13:18</verse></h3>



Thus the children of Israel were brought under at that time, and the children of Judah prevailed, (n)
because they relied upon the LORD God of their fathers.



(n) He shows that the stay of all kingdoms and assurance of victories depends on our trust and
confidence in the Lord.

<h2>2 Chronicles 14</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 14:3
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 14:3>2 Chronicles 14:3</verse></h3>

<page=937>For he took away the altars of the strange [gods], and the high places, and brake down the images,
and cut down the (a) groves:



(a) Which were planted contrary to the Law, (<bcv=Deu 16:21>Deu 16:21</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 14:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 14:5>2 Chronicles 14:5</verse></h3>



Also he took away out of all the cities of Judah the high places and the images: and the kingdom
was (b) quiet before him.



(b) He shows that the rest and quietness of kingdoms stands in abolishing idolatry and advancing
true religion.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 14:7
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 14:7>2 Chronicles 14:7</verse></h3>



Therefore he said unto Judah, Let us build these cities, and make about [them] walls, and towers,
gates, and bars, [while] the land [is] yet (c) before us; because we have sought the LORD our God,
we have sought [him], and he hath given us rest on every side. So they built and prospered.



(c) While we have the full government of it.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 14:9
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 14:9>2 Chronicles 14:9</verse></h3>



And there came out against them Zerah the (d) Ethiopian with an host of a million, and three
hundred chariots; and came unto (e) Mareshah.



(d) The king of Ethiopia, or Egypt.



(e) Which was a city in Judah, (<bcv=Jos 15:44>Jos 15:44</bcv>) where Michaiah the prophet was born.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 14:11
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 14:11>2 Chronicles 14:11</verse></h3>



And Asa cried unto the LORD his God, and said, LORD, [it is] nothing with thee to help, whether
with many, or with them that have no power: help us, O LORD our God; for we rest on thee, and in
thy name we go against this multitude. O LORD, thou [art] our God; (f) let not man prevail against
thee.



(f) Thus the children of God neither trust in their own power or policy, nor fear the strength and
subtilty of their enemies, but consider the cause and see whether their enterprises tend to God's
<page=938>glory, and thereupon assure themselves of the victory by him, who alone is Almighty and can turn


all flesh into dust with the breath of his mouth.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 14:14
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 14:14>2 Chronicles 14:14</verse></h3>



And they smote all the cities round about Gerar; for the (g) fear of the LORD came upon them: and
they spoiled all the cities; for there was exceeding much spoil in them.



(g) The Lord had stricken them with fear.

<h2>2 Chronicles 15</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 15:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 15:1>2 Chronicles 15:1</verse></h3>

<page=939>And the Spirit of God came upon (a) Azariah the son of Oded:



(a) Who was called Obed as his father was, (<bcv=2Ch 15:8>Ch2 15:8</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 15:3
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 15:3>2 Chronicles 15:3</verse></h3>



Now for a long season Israel [hath been] without the (b) true God, and without a teaching priest,
and without law.



(b) For the space of twelve years under Rehoboam, and three years under Abijah, religion was
neglected, and idolatry planted.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 15:4
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 15:4>2 Chronicles 15:4</verse></h3>



But when they in their trouble did turn unto the LORD God of Israel, and sought him, he (c) was
found of them.



(c) He shows that despite the wickedness of tyrants and their rage, yet God has his whom he hears
in their tribulation as he delivered his from Zerah king of the Ethiopians, 
(<bcv=2Ch 14:9>Ch2 14:9</bcv>, <bcv=2Ch 14:12>Ch2 14:12</bcv>) and
out of all other dangers, when they called upon the Lord.

#BCV:2 Chronicles 15:7
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 15:7>2 Chronicles 15:7</verse></h3>



Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your (d) work shall be rewarded.



(d) Your confidence and trust in God will not be frustrated.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 15:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 15:10>2 Chronicles 15:10</verse></h3>



So they gathered themselves together at Jerusalem in the (e) third month, in the fifteenth year of the
reign of Asa.



(e) Called Shiuam, containing part of May and part of June.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 15:11
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 15:11>2 Chronicles 15:11</verse></h3>



And they offered unto the LORD the same time, of the (f) spoil [which] they had brought, seven
hundred oxen and seven thousand sheep.



(f) Which they had taken of the Ethiopians.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 15:13
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 15:13>2 Chronicles 15:13</verse></h3>

<page=940>That (g) whosoever would not seek the LORD God of Israel should be put to death, whether small
or great, whether man or woman.



(g) These were the words of their covenant, which commanded all idolaters be put to death,
according to the law of God, (<bcv=Deu 13:5>Deu 13:5</bcv>,<bcv=Deu 13:9> Deu 13:9</bcv>,<bcv=Deu 13:15> Deu 13:15</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 15:15
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 15:15>2 Chronicles 15:15</verse></h3>



And all Judah rejoiced at the oath: for they had sworn with all their heart, and sought him with their
whole desire; and he was (h) found of them: and the LORD gave them rest round about.



(h) As long as they served him correctly, so long did he preserve and prosper them.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 15:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 15:16>2 Chronicles 15:16</verse></h3>



And also [concerning] Maachah the (i) mother of Asa the king, he removed her from [being] queen,
because she had made an idol in a grove: and Asa cut down her idol, and stamped [it], and burnt [it]
at the brook Kidron.



(i) Or grandmother, and in this he showed that he lacked zeal, for she should have died both by the
covenant, as (<bcv=2Ch 15:13>Ch2 15:13</bcv>) and by the law of God, but he gave place to foolish pity and would also
seem after a sort to satisfy the law.

#BCV:2 Chronicles 15:17
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 15:17>2 Chronicles 15:17</verse></h3>



But the high places were not (k) taken away out of (l) Israel: nevertheless the heart of Asa was (m)
perfect all his days.



(k) Which was partly because of lack of zeal on his part, partly through the negligence of his
officers and partly by the superstition of the people that all were not taken away.



(l) Because God was called the God of Israel, by reason of his promise to Jacob, therefore Israel is
sometimes taken for Judah, because Judah was his chief people.



(m) In respect to his predecessors.

<h2>2 Chronicles 16</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 16:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 16:1>2 Chronicles 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=941>In the six and thirtieth year of the reign of Asa (a) Baasha king of Israel came up against Judah, and
built (b) Ramah, to the intent that he might let none go out or come in to Asa king of Judah.



(a) Who reigned after Nadab the son of Jeroboam.



(b) He fortified it with walls and ditches: it was a city in Benjamin near Gibeon.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 16:3
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 16:3>2 Chronicles 16:3</verse></h3>



[There is] a league between me and thee, as [there was] between my father and thy father: behold, I
have sent thee silver and gold; go, (c) break thy league with Baasha king of Israel, that he may depart
from me.



(c) He thought to repulse his adversary by an unlawful means, that is, by seeking help from infidels,
as they who seek the help of Turks, thinking by it to make themselves stronger.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 16:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 16:10>2 Chronicles 16:10</verse></h3>



Then Asa was wroth with the seer, and put him in a prison house; for [he was] (d) in a rage with him
because of this [thing]. And Asa oppressed [some] of the people the same time.



(d) Thus instead of turning to God in repentance, he disdained the admonition of the prophet, and
punished him, as the wicked do when they are told of their faults.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 16:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 16:12>2 Chronicles 16:12</verse></h3>



And Asa in the thirty and ninth year of his reign was diseased in his feet, until his disease [was] (e)
exceeding [great]: yet in his disease he sought not to the LORD, but to the (f) physicians.



(e) God plagued his rebellion and by this declared that it is nothing to begin well, unless we continue
to the end, that is, zealous of God's glory and put our whole trust in him.



(f) He shows that it is useless to seek the physicians unless we first seek God to purge our sins,
which are the chief cause of all our diseases, and later use the help of the physicians as a means by
which God works.

<h2>2 Chronicles 17</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 17:3
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 17:3>2 Chronicles 17:3</verse></h3>

<page=942>And the LORD was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the (a) first ways of his father David,
and sought not unto (b) Baalim;



(a) That is, his virtues meaning before he had committed with Bathsheba, and against Uriah.



(b) Did not seek help from strange Gods.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 17:6
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 17:6>2 Chronicles 17:6</verse></h3>



And his heart was (c) lifted up in the ways of the LORD: moreover he took away the high places
and groves out of Judah.



(c) He gave himself wholly to serve the Lord.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 17:7
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 17:7>2 Chronicles 17:7</verse></h3>



Also in the third year of his reign he sent to his princes, [even] to Benhail, and to Obadiah, and to
Zechariah, and to Nethaneel, and to Michaiah, to (d) teach in the cities of Judah.



(d) He knew it was in vain to profess religion, unless such were appointed who could instruct the
people in the same, and had authority to put away all idolatry.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 17:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 17:10>2 Chronicles 17:10</verse></h3>



And the fear of the LORD fell upon all the kingdoms of the lands that [were] round about Judah,
so that they (e) made no war against Jehoshaphat.



(e) Thus God prospers all who with a pure heart seek his glory, and keeps their enemies in fear, so
that they are not able to execute their rage against them.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 17:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 17:16>2 Chronicles 17:16</verse></h3>



And next him [was] Amasiah the son of Zichri, (f) who willingly offered himself unto the LORD;
and with him two hundred thousand mighty men of valour.



(f) Meaning, who was a Nazarite.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 17:19
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 17:19>2 Chronicles 17:19</verse></h3>

<page=943>These (g) waited on the king, beside [those] whom the king put in the fenced cities throughout all
Judah.



(g) That is, they were at his ordinary guard.

<h2>2 Chronicles 18</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:1>2 Chronicles 18:1</verse></h3>

<page=944>Now Jehoshaphat had riches and honour in abundance, and joined (a) affinity with Ahab.



(a) For Joram Jehoshaphat's son married Ahab's daughter.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:2>2 Chronicles 18:2</verse></h3>



And after [certain] (b) years he went down to Ahab to Samaria. And Ahab killed sheep and oxen for
him in abundance, and for the people that [he had] with him, and persuaded him to go up [with him]
to (c) Ramothgilead.



(b) That is, the third year, (<bcv=I Ki 22:2>Kg1 22:2</bcv>).



(c) To recover it out of the hands of the Syrians.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:4
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:4>2 Chronicles 18:4</verse></h3>



And Jehoshaphat said unto the king of Israel, Enquire, I pray thee, at the (d) word of the LORD to
day.



(d) Hear the advise of some prophet to know whether it is God's will.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:5>2 Chronicles 18:5</verse></h3>



Therefore the king of Israel gathered together of (e) prophets four hundred men, and said unto
them, Shall we go to Ramothgilead to battle, or shall I forbear? And they said, Go up; for God will
deliver [it] into the king's hand.



(e) Who were the prophets of Baal, signifying that the wicked esteem none but liars and such as will
bear with their inordinate affections.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:7
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:7>2 Chronicles 18:7</verse></h3>



And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, [There is] yet one man, by whom we may enquire of
the LORD: but I (f) hate him; for he never prophesied good unto me, but always evil: the same [is]
Micaiah the son of Imla. And Jehoshaphat said, Let not the king say (g) so.



(f) Yet the true ministers of God should not cease to do their duty, even though the wicked
magistrates cannot abide them speaking the truth.



(g) Meaning, that he should not refuse to hear any that was from God.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:9
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:9>2 Chronicles 18:9</verse></h3>

<page=945>And the king of Israel and Jehoshaphat king of Judah sat either of them on his throne, clothed in
[their] (h) robes, and they sat in a void place at the entering in of the gate of Samaria; and all the
prophets prophesied before them.



(h) That is, in their majesty and royal apparel.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:10>2 Chronicles 18:10</verse></h3>



And Zedekiah the son of Chenaanah had made him (i) horns of iron, and said, Thus saith the
LORD, With these thou shalt push Syria until they be consumed.



(i) Read (<bcv=I Ki 22:11>Kg1 22:11</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:12>2 Chronicles 18:12</verse></h3>



And the messenger that went to call Micaiah spake to him, saying, Behold, the words of the
prophets [declare] good to the king with one (k) assent; let thy word therefore, I pray thee, be like
one of theirs, and speak thou good.



(k) Thinking, that since four hundred prophets had agreed in one thing, that he being but one man
and in least estimation, did not dare to go against it.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:14
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:14>2 Chronicles 18:14</verse></h3>



And when he was come to the king, the king said unto him, Micaiah, shall we go to Ramothgilead to
battle, or shall I forbear? And he said, (l) Go ye up, and prosper, and they shall be delivered into your
hand.



(l) He spoke this in derision of the false prophets as the king well knew.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:16>2 Chronicles 18:16</verse></h3>



Then he said, I did see all Israel scattered upon the mountains, as sheep that have no shepherd: and
the LORD said, (m) These have no master; let them return [therefore] every man to his house in
peace.



(m) He prophesied of how the people would be scattered and Ahab slain.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:18
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:18>2 Chronicles 18:18</verse></h3>

<page=946>Again he said, Therefore hear the word of the LORD; I saw the LORD sitting upon his throne, and
all the (n) host of heaven standing on his right hand and [on] his left.



(n) Meaning his angels.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:21
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:21>2 Chronicles 18:21</verse></h3>



And he said, I will go out, and be a lying spirit in the mouth of all his prophets. And (o) [the LORD]
said, Thou shalt entice [him], and thou shalt also prevail: go out, and do [even] so.



(o) That is, the Lord.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:22
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:22>2 Chronicles 18:22</verse></h3>



Now therefore, behold, the LORD hath put a (p) lying spirit in the mouth of these thy prophets,
and the LORD hath spoken evil against thee.



(p) To those who would not believe the truth, God sent a strong delusion, that they would believe
lies, (<bcv=II Th 2:10>Th2 2:10</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:23
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:23>2 Chronicles 18:23</verse></h3>



Then Zedekiah the son of Chenaanah came near, and smote Micaiah upon the (q) cheek, and said,
Which way went the Spirit of the LORD from me to speak unto thee?



(q) By this cruelty his ambition and hypocrisy was discovered; thus the hypocrites boast of the Spirit
which they do not have, and declare their malice against them on whom the true Spirit is.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:26
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:26>2 Chronicles 18:26</verse></h3>



And say, Thus saith the king, Put this [fellow] in the prison, and feed him with bread of (r) affliction
and with water of affliction, until I return in peace.



(r) Keep him in prison, and let him feel hunger and thirst.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:29
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:29>2 Chronicles 18:29</verse></h3>



And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, I will (s) disguise myself, and will go to the battle; but
put thou on thy robes. So the king of Israel disguised himself; and they went to the battle.



(s) Thus the wicked think by their own subtilty to escape God's judgments which he threatens by his
word.

#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:31
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:31>2 Chronicles 18:31</verse></h3>


And it came to pass, when the captains of the chariots saw Jehoshaphat, that they said, It [is] the
king of Israel. Therefore they compassed about him to fight: but Jehoshaphat (t) cried out, and the
LORD helped him; and God moved them [to depart] from him.



(t) He cried to the Lord by acknowledging his fault in going with this wicked king to war against the
word of the Lord by his prophet and also by desiring mercy for the same.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 18:34
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 18:34>2 Chronicles 18:34</verse></h3>



And the battle increased that day: howbeit the king of Israel (u) stayed [himself] up in [his] chariot
against the Syrians until the even: and about the time of the sun going down he died.



(u) He disguised his wound that his soldiers might fight more courageously.

<h2>2 Chronicles 19</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 19:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 19:2>2 Chronicles 19:2</verse></h3>

<page=948>And Jehu the son of Hanani the seer went out to meet him, and said to king Jehoshaphat, (a)
Shouldest thou help the ungodly, and love them that hate the LORD? therefore [is] wrath upon thee
from before the LORD.



(a) He declares that the wrath of God is over everyone who supports the wicked and does not show
in their actions that they are enemies to everyone that hates the Lord.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 19:4
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 19:4>2 Chronicles 19:4</verse></h3>



And Jehoshaphat dwelt at Jerusalem: and he went out again (b) through the people from Beersheba
to mount Ephraim, and brought them back unto the LORD God of their fathers.



(b) He visited all his country and brought his people from idolatry to the knowledge of the true
God.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 19:6
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 19:6>2 Chronicles 19:6</verse></h3>



And said to the judges, Take heed what ye do: for ye judge not for man, but for the LORD, who [is]



(c) with you in the judgment.



(c) Both to preserve you if you do justly or to punish you, if you do the contrary.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 19:7
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 19:7>2 Chronicles 19:7</verse></h3>



Wherefore now let the fear of the LORD be upon you; take heed and do [it]: for [there is] no (d)
iniquity with the LORD our God, nor respect of persons, nor taking of gifts.



(d) He will declare by the sharpness of the punishment that he hates all iniquity.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 19:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 19:8>2 Chronicles 19:8</verse></h3>



Moreover in Jerusalem did Jehoshaphat set of the Levites, and [of] the priests, and of the chief of
the fathers of Israel, for the judgment of the LORD, and for controversies, when they (e) returned
to Jerusalem.



(e) The priests and Levites who should judge matters according to the word of the Lord.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 19:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 19:10>2 Chronicles 19:10</verse></h3>

<page=949>And what cause soever shall come to you of your brethren that dwell in their cities, between (f)
blood and blood, between law and commandment, statutes and judgments, ye shall even warn them
that they trespass not against the LORD, and [so] (g) wrath come upon you, and upon your brethren:
this do, and ye shall not trespass.



(f) That is, to decide whether or not the murder was done on purpose, (<bcv=Num 35:11>Num 35:11</bcv>,<bcv=Deu 4:41> Deu 4:41</bcv>).



(g) Meaning, that God would punish them most sharply if they would not execute justice correctly.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 19:11
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 19:11>2 Chronicles 19:11</verse></h3>



And, behold, Amariah the chief priest [is] over you in all matters of the LORD; and Zebadiah the
son of Ishmael, the ruler of the house of Judah, for all the (h) king's matters: also the Levites [shall
be] officers (i) before you. Deal courageously, and the LORD shall be with the (k) good.



(h) Shall be chief overseer of the public affairs of the realm.



(i) They will have the handling of inferior causes.



(k) God will assist them that do justice.

<h2>2 Chronicles 20</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:1>2 Chronicles 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=950>It came to pass after this also, [that] the children of Moab, and the children of Ammon, and with
them [other] beside the (a) Ammonites, came against Jehoshaphat to battle.



(a) That is, who copied the Ammonites in language and apparel. The Hebrews thought that they
were the Amalekites, but as it appeared by (<bcv=2Ch 20:10>Ch2 20:10</bcv>) they were the Idumeans of mount Seir.

#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:2>2 Chronicles 20:2</verse></h3>



Then there came some that told Jehoshaphat, saying, There cometh a great multitude against thee
from beyond the (b) sea on this side Syria; and, behold, they [be] in Hazazontamar, which [is] Engedi.



(b) Called the Dead sea, where God destroyed the five cities because of their sin.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:3
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:3>2 Chronicles 20:3</verse></h3>



And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself (c) to seek the LORD, and proclaimed a fast throughout all
Judah.



(c) This declares what the fear of the godly is, which is the prick to stir them to prayer and to
depend on the Lord, while it moves the wicked either to seek after worldly means and policies or
else to fall into despair.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:7
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:7>2 Chronicles 20:7</verse></h3>



[Art] not thou our God, [who] didst drive out the inhabitants of this land before thy people Israel,
and (d) gavest it to the seed of Abraham thy friend for ever?



(d) He grounds his prayer on God's power, by which he is able to help and also on his mercy, which
he will continue toward his, as he has once chosen them and began to show his graces toward them.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:9
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:9>2 Chronicles 20:9</verse></h3>



If, [when] evil cometh upon us, [as] the (e) sword, judgment, or pestilence, or famine, we stand
before this house, and in thy presence, (for thy name (f) [is] in this house,) and cry unto thee in our
affliction, then thou wilt hear and help.



(e) Meaning war which comes by God's just judgments for our sins.



(f) That is, it is here called on and you declared your presence and favour.

#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:12>2 Chronicles 20:12</verse></h3>


O our God, wilt thou not judge them? for we have no might against this great company that cometh
against us; neither know we what to do: but our eyes (g) [are] upon thee.



(g) We only put our trust in you, and wait for our deliverance from heaven.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:13
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:13>2 Chronicles 20:13</verse></h3>



And all Judah stood (h) before the LORD, with their little ones, their wives, and their children.



(h) That is, before the ark of the covenant.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:14
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:14>2 Chronicles 20:14</verse></h3>



Then upon Jahaziel the son of Zechariah, the son of Benaiah, the son of Jeiel, the son of Mattaniah,
a Levite of the sons of Asaph, came (i) the Spirit of the LORD in the midst of the congregation;



(i) Who was moved by the Spirit of God to prophecy.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:15
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:15>2 Chronicles 20:15</verse></h3>



And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat,
Thus saith the LORD unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for
the (k) battle [is] not yours, but God's.



(k) They fight against God and not against you, therefore he will fight for you.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:18
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:18>2 Chronicles 20:18</verse></h3>



And Jehoshaphat (l) bowed his head with [his] face to the ground: and all Judah and the inhabitants
of Jerusalem fell before the LORD, worshipping the LORD.



(l) Declaring his faith and obedience to the word of the Lord, and giving thanks for the deliverance
promised.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:20
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:20>2 Chronicles 20:20</verse></h3>



And they rose early in the morning, and went forth into the wilderness of Tekoa: and as they went
forth, Jehoshaphat stood and said, Hear me, O Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem; Believe in the
LORD your God, so shall ye be established; believe his (m) prophets, so shall ye prosper.



(m) Give credit to their words and doctrine.

#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:21
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:21>2 Chronicles 20:21</verse></h3>


And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the LORD, and that should
praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, (n) Praise the LORD; for
his mercy [endureth] for ever.



(n) This was a psalm of thanksgiving which they used commonly to sing when they praised the Lord
for his benefits, and was made by David, (Psa. 136:1-26).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:22
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:22>2 Chronicles 20:22</verse></h3>



And when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushments against the children of
Ammon, Moab, and (o) mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten.



(o) Meaning, the Idumeans who dwelt in mount Seir.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:23
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:23>2 Chronicles 20:23</verse></h3>



For the children of Ammon and Moab stood up against the inhabitants of mount Seir, utterly to
slay and destroy [them]: and when they had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, every one
helped to (p) destroy another.



(p) Thus the Lord according to Jehoshaphat's prayer declared his power, when he delivered his by
causing their enemies to kill one another.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:26
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:26>2 Chronicles 20:26</verse></h3>



And on the fourth day they (q) assembled themselves in the valley of Berachah; for there they
blessed the LORD: therefore the name of the same place was called, The valley of Berachah, unto
this day.



(q) To give thanks to the Lord for the victory: and therefore the valley was called Berachah, that is,
blessing or thanksgiving, which was also called the valley of Jehoshaphat, (<bcv=Joel 3:2>Joe 3:2</bcv>,<bcv=Joel 3:12> Joe 3:12</bcv>) because
the Lord judged the enemies according to Jehoshaphat's prayer.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:29
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:29>2 Chronicles 20:29</verse></h3>



And the (r) fear of God was on all the kingdoms of [those] countries, when they had heard that the
LORD fought against the enemies of Israel.



(r) He declares by this that the works of God always bring comfort or deliverance to his, and fear or
destruction to his enemies.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:32
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:32>2 Chronicles 20:32</verse></h3>

<page=953>And he walked in the way of (s) Asa his father, and departed not from it, doing [that which was]
right in the sight of the LORD.



(s) Meaning, in his virtues, and those ways in which he followed God.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:33
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:33>2 Chronicles 20:33</verse></h3>



Howbeit the high places were (t) not taken away: for as yet the people had not prepared their hearts
unto the God of their fathers.



(t) If the great care and diligence of this good king was not able to utterly abolish all the superstition
of this people, but they still retained it, how much less are they able to reform evil, who either have
little zeal, or not as he had: though here he was not to be excused?
#BCV:2 Chronicles 20:37
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 20:37>2 Chronicles 20:37</verse></h3>



Then Eliezer the son of Dodavah of Mareshah prophesied against Jehoshaphat, saying, Because
thou hast (u) joined thyself with Ahaziah, the LORD hath broken thy works. And the ships were
broken, that they were not able to go to Tarshish.



(u) Thus God would not have his join in company with idolaters and wicked men.

<h2>2 Chronicles 21</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 21:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 21:2>2 Chronicles 21:2</verse></h3>

<page=954>And he had brethren the sons of Jehoshaphat, Azariah, and Jehiel, and Zechariah, and Azariah, and
Michael, and Shephatiah: all these [were] the sons of Jehoshaphat king of (a) Israel.



(a) Read (<bcv=2Ch 15:17>Ch2 15:17</bcv>) how by Israel he meant Judah.

#BCV:2 Chronicles 21:4
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 21:4>2 Chronicles 21:4</verse></h3>



Now when Jehoram was risen up to the kingdom of his father, he strengthened himself, and (b) slew
all his brethren with the sword, and [divers] also of the princes of (c) Israel.



(b) Because the wicked always live in fear, and also are ambitious, they become cruel and spare not
to murder them, whom by nature they ought most to cherish and defend.



(c) Meaning, of Judah and Benjamin.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 21:6
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 21:6>2 Chronicles 21:6</verse></h3>



And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, like as did the house of Ahab: for he had the
daughter of Ahab to (d) wife: and he wrought [that which was] evil in the eyes of the LORD.



(d) So that we see how it cannot be that we should join with the wicked and serve God.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 21:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 21:10>2 Chronicles 21:10</verse></h3>



So the Edomites revolted from under the hand of Judah unto this day. The same time [also] did (e)
Libnah revolt from under his hand; because he had forsaken the LORD God of his fathers.



(e) Read (<bcv=II Ki 8:22>Kg2 8:22</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 21:11
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 21:11>2 Chronicles 21:11</verse></h3>



Moreover he made high places in the mountains of Judah, and caused the inhabitants of Jerusalem
to commit (f) fornication, and compelled Judah [thereto].



(f) Meaning, idolatry because the idolater breaks promise with God as the adulteress does to her
husband.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 21:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 21:12>2 Chronicles 21:12</verse></h3>

<page=955>And there came a writing to him from (g) Elijah the prophet, saying, Thus saith the LORD God of
David thy father, Because thou hast not walked in the ways of Jehoshaphat thy father, nor in the
ways of Asa king of Judah,



(g) Some think that this was Elisha so called because he had the Spirit in abundance, as had Elijah.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 21:15
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 21:15>2 Chronicles 21:15</verse></h3>



And thou [shalt have] great sickness by disease of thy bowels, until (h) thy bowels fall out by reason
of the sickness day by day.



(h) We see this example daily practised on them who fall away from God, and become idolaters and
murderers of their brethren.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 21:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 21:16>2 Chronicles 21:16</verse></h3>



Moreover the LORD stirred up against Jehoram the spirit of the Philistines, and of the Arabians,
that [were] near the (l) Ethiopians:



(l) There were other Arabians in Africa southward toward Egypt.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 21:17
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 21:17>2 Chronicles 21:17</verse></h3>



And they came up into Judah, and brake into it, and carried away all the substance that was found in
the king's house, and his sons also, and his wives; so that there was never a son left him, save (k)
Jehoahaz, the youngest of his sons.



(k) Called also Ahaziah, as in (<bcv=2Ch 22:1>Ch2 22:1</bcv>) or Azariah in (<bcv=2Ch 22:6>Ch2 22:6</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Chronicles 21:20
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 21:20>2 Chronicles 21:20</verse></h3>



Thirty and two years old was he when he began to reign, and he reigned in Jerusalem eight years, (l)
and departed without being desired. Howbeit they buried him in the city of David, but not in the
sepulchres of the kings.



(l) That is, as some write, he was not regarded but deposed for his wickedness and idolatry so that
his son reigned 22 years (his father yet living) without honour, and after his father's death he was
confirmed to reign still, as in (<bcv=2Ch 22:2>Ch2 22:2</bcv>).

<h2>2 Chronicles 22</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 22:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 22:1>2 Chronicles 22:1</verse></h3>

<page=956>And the inhabitants of Jerusalem made Ahaziah his youngest son king in his stead: for the band of
men that came with the (a) Arabians to the camp had slain all the eldest. So Ahaziah the son of
Jehoram king of Judah reigned.



(a) Meaning the Philistines.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 22:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 22:2>2 Chronicles 22:2</verse></h3>




(b) Forty and two years old [was] Ahaziah when he began to reign, and he reigned (c) one year in
Jerusalem. His mother's name also [was] Athaliah the daughter (d) of Omri.



(b) Read (<bcv=2Ch 21:20>Ch2 21:20</bcv>).


(c) That is, after the death of his father.



(d) She was Ahab's daughter, who was the son of Omri.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 22:4
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 22:4>2 Chronicles 22:4</verse></h3>



Wherefore he did evil in the sight of the LORD like the house of Ahab: for they were his (e)
counsellors after the death of his father to his destruction.



(e) He shows that it follows that the rulers are as their counsellors are and that there cannot be a
good king who allows wicked counsellors.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 22:7
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 22:7>2 Chronicles 22:7</verse></h3>



And the destruction of Ahaziah (f) was of God by coming to Joram: for when he was come, he
went out with Jehoram against Jehu the son of Nimshi, whom the LORD had anointed to cut off
the house of Ahab.



(f) By this we see that nothing can come to any but by God's providence and as he has appointed,
and therefore he causes everything to serve his purposes.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 22:9
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 22:9>2 Chronicles 22:9</verse></h3>



And he sought Ahaziah: and they caught him, (for he was hid in Samaria,) and brought him to Jehu:
and when they had slain him, they buried him: Because, said they, he [is] the son of (g) Jehoshaphat,
who sought the LORD with all his heart. So the house of Ahaziah had no power to keep still the
kingdom.

<page=957>(g) This was the just plague of God because he joined himself with God's enemies: yet God to
declare the worthiness of Jehoshaphat his grandfather moved them to give him the honour of burial.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 22:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 22:10>2 Chronicles 22:10</verse></h3>



But when Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she arose and (h) destroyed all
the seed royal of the house of Judah.



(h) So that there would be no one to claim the crown and so she might usurp the government.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 22:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 22:12>2 Chronicles 22:12</verse></h3>



And he was with them hid in the (i) house of God six years: and Athaliah reigned over the (k) land.



(i) Meaning, in the chamber where the priests and Levites slept, who kept their courses weekly in the
temple.



(k) That is, of Judah.

<h2>2 Chronicles 23</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 23:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 23:1>2 Chronicles 23:1</verse></h3>

<page=958>And (a) in the seventh year Jehoiada strengthened himself, and took the captains of hundreds,
Azariah the son of Jeroham, and Ishmael the son of Jehohanan, and Azariah the son of Obed, and
Maaseiah the son of Adaiah, and Elishaphat the son of Zichri, into covenant with him.



(a) Of the reign of Athaliah or after the death of Ahaziah.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 23:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 23:2>2 Chronicles 23:2</verse></h3>



And they went about in Judah, and gathered the Levites out of all the cities of Judah, and the (b)
chief of the fathers of Israel, and they came to Jerusalem.



(b) Meaning of Judah and Benjamin. To see why they are
called Israel, See <bcv=2Ch 15:17>Ch2 15:17</bcv>
#BCV:2 Chronicles 23:5

<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 23:5>2 Chronicles 23:5</verse></h3>



And a third part [shall be] at the king's house; and a third part at the gate of the (c) foundation: and
all the people [shall be] in the courts of the house of the LORD.



(c) Which was the chief gate of the temple toward the east.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 23:7
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 23:7>2 Chronicles 23:7</verse></h3>



And the Levites shall compass the king round about, every man with his weapons in his hand; and
whosoever [else] cometh (d) into the house, he shall be put to death: but be ye with the king when
he cometh in, and when he goeth out.



(d) Meaning to make any tumult, or to hinder their enterprise.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 23:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 23:8>2 Chronicles 23:8</verse></h3>



So the Levites and all Judah did according to all things that Jehoiada the priest had commanded, and
took every man his men that were to come in on the sabbath, with them that (e) were to go [out] on
the sabbath: for Jehoiada the priest dismissed not the courses.



(e) Who had finished their course on the Sabbath and so the other part entered to keep their turn.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 23:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 23:10>2 Chronicles 23:10</verse></h3>

<page=959>And he set all the people, every man having his weapon in his hand, from the right side of the
temple to the left side of the temple, along by the altar and the (f) temple, by the king round about.



(f) Meaning the most holy place where the ark stood.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 23:11
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 23:11>2 Chronicles 23:11</verse></h3>



Then they brought out the king's son, and put upon him the crown, and [gave him] the (g) testimony,
and made him king. And Jehoiada and his sons anointed him, and said, God save the king.



(g) That is, the book of the law or as some read they put on him his royal apparel.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 23:13
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 23:13>2 Chronicles 23:13</verse></h3>



And she looked, and, behold, the king stood at his pillar at the entering in, and the princes and the
trumpets by the king: and all the people of the land rejoiced, and sounded with trumpets, also the
singers with instruments of musick, and such as taught to sing praise. Then Athaliah rent her clothes,
and said, (h) Treason, Treason.



(h) Declaring her vile impudency who having unjustly and by murder usurped the crown would still
have defeated the true possessor and therefore called true obedience treason.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 23:14
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 23:14>2 Chronicles 23:14</verse></h3>



Then Jehoiada the priest brought out the captains of hundreds that were set over the host, and said
unto them, Have her forth of the ranges: and whoso (i) followeth her, let him be slain with the
sword. For the priest said, Slay her not in the house of the LORD.



(i) To join with her party and to maintain her authority.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 23:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 23:16>2 Chronicles 23:16</verse></h3>



And Jehoiada made a (k) covenant between him, and between all the people, and between the king,
that they should be the LORD'S people.



(k) That they would only serve him and renounce all idolatry.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 23:17
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 23:17>2 Chronicles 23:17</verse></h3>



Then all the people went to the house of Baal, and (l) brake it down, and brake his altars and his
images in pieces, and slew (m) Mattan the priest of Baal before the altars.



(l) According to their covenant made to the Lord.



(m) As the Lord commanded in his law both for the person and also the city, (<bcv=Deu 13:9>Deu 13:9</bcv>,<bcv=Deu 13:15> Deu 13:15</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 23:20
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 23:20>2 Chronicles 23:20</verse></h3>

<page=960>And he took the captains of hundreds, and the nobles, and the governors of the people, and all the
people of the land, and brought down the king from the house of the LORD: and they came
through the (n) high gate into the king's house, and set the king upon the throne of the kingdom.



(n) Which was the principal gate that the king might be seen by all the people.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 23:21
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 23:21>2 Chronicles 23:21</verse></h3>



And all the people of the land rejoiced: and the city was quiet, (o) after that they had slain Athaliah
with the sword.



(o) For where a tyrant and an idolater reigns there can be no peace for the plagues of God are
always among such people.

<h2>2 Chronicles 24</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:2>2 Chronicles 24:2</verse></h3>

<page=961>And Joash did [that which was] right in the sight of the LORD all the days of (a) Jehoiada the priest.



(a) Who was a faithful counsellor and governed him by the word of God.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:5>2 Chronicles 24:5</verse></h3>



And he gathered together the priests and the Levites, and said to them, Go out unto the cities of
Judah, and gather of all (b) Israel money to repair the house of your God from year to year, and see
that ye hasten the matter. Howbeit the Levites hastened [it] not.



(b) He does not mean the ten tribes but only the two tribes of Judah and Benjamin.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:6
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:6>2 Chronicles 24:6</verse></h3>



And the king called for Jehoiada the (c) chief, and said unto him, Why hast thou not required of the
Levites to bring in out of Judah and out of Jerusalem the collection, [according to the
commandment] of Moses the servant of the LORD, and of the congregation of Israel, for the
tabernacle of witness?



(c) For he was the high priest.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:7
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:7>2 Chronicles 24:7</verse></h3>



For the sons of Athaliah, that (d) wicked woman, had broken up the house of God; and also all the
dedicated things of the house of the LORD did they bestow upon Baalim.



(d) The scriptures call her wicked because she was a cruel murderer and a blasphemous idolater.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:11
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:11>2 Chronicles 24:11</verse></h3>



Now it came to pass, that at what time (e) the chest was brought unto the king's office by the hand
of the Levites, and when they saw that [there was] much money, the king's scribe and the high
priest's officer came and emptied the chest, and took it, and carried it to his place again. Thus they
did day by day, and gathered money in abundance.



(e) Such as were faithful men whom the king had appointed for that matter.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:12>2 Chronicles 24:12</verse></h3>

<page=962>And the king and (f) Jehoiada gave it to such as did the work of the service of the house of the
LORD, and hired masons and carpenters to repair the house of the LORD, and also such as
wrought iron and brass to mend the house of the LORD.



(f) Signifying that this was done by advise and counsel and not by any one man's desire.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:14
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:14>2 Chronicles 24:14</verse></h3>



And when they had finished [it], they brought the rest of the money before the king and Jehoiada,
whereof were made (g) vessels for the house of the LORD, [even] vessels to minister, and to offer
[withal], and spoons, and vessels of gold and silver. And they offered burnt offerings in the house
of the LORD continually all the days of Jehoiada.



(g) For the wicked kings, his predecessors and Athaliah had destroyed the vessels of the temple, or
turned them to the use of their idols.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:16>2 Chronicles 24:16</verse></h3>



And they buried him in the city of David among the (h) kings, because he had done good in Israel,
both toward God, and toward his house.



(h) Signifying that they could not honour him too much, who had so excellently served in the work
of the Lord, and in the affairs of the commonwealth.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:17
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:17>2 Chronicles 24:17</verse></h3>



Now after the death of Jehoiada came the (i) princes of Judah, and made obeisance to the king.
Then the king hearkened unto them.



(i) Who were liars and knew now that the king was destitute of him who watched over him as a
father, and therefore brought him to most vile idolatry.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:19
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:19>2 Chronicles 24:19</verse></h3>



Yet he sent prophets to them, to bring them again unto the LORD; and they (k) testified against
them: but they would not give ear.



(k) They took heaven and earth and all creatures to witness that unless they returned to the Lord, he
would most grievously punish their infidelity and rebellion, (<bcv=Neh 9:26>Neh 9:26</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:20
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:20>2 Chronicles 24:20</verse></h3>

<page=963>And the Spirit of God came upon Zechariah the son of Jehoiada the priest, which stood (l) above
the people, and said unto them, Thus saith God, Why transgress ye the commandments of the
LORD, that ye cannot prosper? because ye have forsaken the LORD, he hath also forsaken you.



(l) In a place above the people, to the intent that he might be heard.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:21
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:21>2 Chronicles 24:21</verse></h3>



And they conspired against him, and stoned him with stones at the (m) commandment of the king
in the court of the house of the LORD.



(m) There is no rage so cruel and beastly as of them whose hearts God has hardened, and who
delight more in superstition and idolatry than in the true service of God and pure simplicity of his
word.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:22
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:22>2 Chronicles 24:22</verse></h3>



Thus Joash the king remembered not the kindness which Jehoiada his father had done to him, but
slew his son. And when he died, he said, The LORD (n) look upon [it], and require [it].



(n) Avenge my death and require my blood at your hands: or he speaks this by prophecy because he
knew that God would do it. This Zachariah is also called the son of Barachias, (<bcv=Mat 23:35>Mat 23:35</bcv>) because
his progenitors were Iddo, Berachiah, Jehoiada.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:24
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:24>2 Chronicles 24:24</verse></h3>



For the army of the Syrians came with a small company of men, and the LORD delivered a very
great host into their hand, because they had forsaken the LORD God of their fathers. So they (o)
executed judgment against Joash.



(o) That is, reproved and checked him, and handled him rigorously.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:25
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:25>2 Chronicles 24:25</verse></h3>



And when they were departed from him, (for they left him in great diseases,) his own servants
conspired against him for the blood of the (p) sons of Jehoiada the priest, and slew him on his bed,
and he died: and they buried him in the city of David, but they buried him not in the sepulchres of
the kings.



(p) Meaning Zachariah, who was one of Jehoiada's sons and a prophet of the Lord.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 24:27
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 24:27>2 Chronicles 24:27</verse></h3>

<page=964>Now [concerning] his sons, and the greatness of the burdens [laid] upon him, and the (r) repairing
of the house of God, behold, they [are] written in the story of the book of the kings. And Amaziah
his son reigned in his stead.



(r) Or, foundation.

<h2>2 Chronicles 25</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:2>2 Chronicles 25:2</verse></h3>

<page=965>And he did [that which was] (a) right in the sight of the LORD, but not with a perfect heart.



(a) Meaning, in respect to his predecessors, though he had his imperfections.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:4
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:4>2 Chronicles 25:4</verse></h3>



But he slew not their children, but [did] as [it is] written in the law in the book of Moses, where the
LORD commanded, saying, The fathers shall not die for the (b) children, neither shall the children
die for the fathers, but every man shall die for his own sin.



(b) That is, for the fault the child is punished for unless he is guilty of the same.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:5>2 Chronicles 25:5</verse></h3>



Moreover Amaziah gathered Judah together, and made them captains over thousands, and captains
over hundreds, according to the houses of [their] fathers, throughout all Judah and Benjamin: and he
numbered them from (c) twenty years old and above, and found them three hundred thousand
choice [men, able] to go forth to war, that could handle spear and shield.



(c) So many as were able to bear weapons and go to war.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:6
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:6>2 Chronicles 25:6</verse></h3>



He hired also an hundred thousand mighty men of valour (d) out of Israel for an hundred talents of
silver.



(d) That is, out of the ten tribes who had separated themselves before both from God and their true
king.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:7
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:7>2 Chronicles 25:7</verse></h3>



But there came a man of God to him, saying, O king, let not the army of Israel go with thee; for the
LORD [is] not (e) with Israel, [to wit, with] all the children of Ephraim.



(e) Therefore to think to have help from them, whom the Lord does not favour, is to cast off the
help of the Lord.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:8>2 Chronicles 25:8</verse></h3>

<page=966>But (f) if thou wilt go, do [it], be strong for the battle: God shall make thee fall before the enemy:
for God hath power to help, and to cast down.



(f) If you will not give credit to my words.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:9
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:9>2 Chronicles 25:9</verse></h3>



And Amaziah said to the man of God, But what shall we do for the hundred talents which I have
given to the army of Israel? And the man of God answered, The LORD is able to (g) give thee
much more than this.



(g) He shows that if we depend only on God, we will not need to be troubled by these worldly
things, for he will give at all times that which will be necessary if we obey his word.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:11
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:11>2 Chronicles 25:11</verse></h3>



And Amaziah strengthened himself, and led forth his people, and went to the valley of salt, and
smote of the children of (h) Seir ten thousand.



(h) For the Idumeans whom David had brought to subjection rebelled under Jehoram Jehoshaphat's

<h1>son.</h1>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:12>2 Chronicles 25:12</verse></h3>



And [other] ten thousand [left] alive did the children of Judah carry away captive, and brought them
unto the top of the (i) rock, and cast them down from the top of the rock, that they all were broken
in pieces.



(i) In (<bcv=II Ki 14:7>Kg2 14:7</bcv>) this rock is called the city Sela.

#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:13
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:13>2 Chronicles 25:13</verse></h3>



But the soldiers of the (k) army which Amaziah sent back, that they should not go with him to
battle, fell upon the cities of Judah, from Samaria even unto Bethhoron, and smote three thousand
of them, and took much spoil.


(k) That is, the 100,000 of Israel.

#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:14
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:14>2 Chronicles 25:14</verse></h3>



Now it came to pass, after that Amaziah was come from the slaughter of the Edomites, that he
brought the gods of the children of Seir, and set them up [to be] his gods, and (l) bowed down
himself before them, and burned incense unto them.

<page=967>(l) That where he should have praised God for his benefits and great victory, he fell from God and
most vilely dishonoured him.

#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:15
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:15>2 Chronicles 25:15</verse></h3>



Wherefore the anger of the LORD was kindled against Amaziah, and he sent unto him a prophet,
which said unto him, Why hast thou sought after the gods of the people, which could not (m)
deliver their own people out of thine hand?



(m) He proves that whatever cannot save himself nor his worshipper is no god but an idol.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:16>2 Chronicles 25:16</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, as he talked with him, that (n) [the king] said unto him, Art thou made of the
king's counsel? forbear; why shouldest thou be (o) smitten? Then the prophet forbare, and said, I
know that God hath determined to destroy thee, because thou hast done this, and hast not
hearkened unto my counsel.



(n) Meaning the king.



(o) So hard it is, for the carnal man to be admonished for his fault, that he condemns, mocks and
threatens him who warns him: yea, imprisons him and puts him to death, 
(<bcv=2Ch 16:10>Ch2 16:10</bcv>, <bcv=2Ch 18:26>Ch2 18:26</bcv>, <bcv=2Ch 24:21>Ch2 24:21</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:17
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:17>2 Chronicles 25:17</verse></h3>



Then Amaziah king of Judah took advice, and sent to Joash, the son of Jehoahaz, the son of Jehu,
king of Israel, saying, Come, (p) let us see one another in the face.



(p) That is, let us try the matter hand to hand: for he was offended, that the army of the Israelites
whom he had in wages and dismissed by the counsel of the prophet, had destroyed certain of the
cities of Judah.

#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:20
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:20>2 Chronicles 25:20</verse></h3>



But Amaziah would not hear; for (q) it [came] of God, that he might deliver them into the hand [of
their enemies], because they sought after the gods of Edom.



(q) Thus God often plagues by those means on which men must rely, to teach them to seek help
only from him, and to show his judgments, he moves their hearts to follow that which will lead to
their destruction.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 25:24
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 25:24>2 Chronicles 25:24</verse></h3>

<page=968>And [he took] all the gold and the silver, and all the vessels that were found in the house of God
with (r) Obededom, and the treasures of the king's house, the hostages also, and returned to Samaria.



(r) Meaning, the successors of Obededom: for the house bore the name of the chief father.

<h2>2 Chronicles 26</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 26:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 26:1>2 Chronicles 26:1</verse></h3>

<page=969>Then all the people of Judah took (a) Uzziah, who [was] sixteen years old, and made him king in the
room of his father Amaziah.



(a) Called also Azariah.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 26:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 26:2>2 Chronicles 26:2</verse></h3>



He built (b) Eloth, and restored it to Judah, after that the king slept with his fathers.



(b) He fortified it and made it strong: this city was also called Elath and Elanon near the Red sea.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 26:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 26:5>2 Chronicles 26:5</verse></h3>



And he sought God in the days of (c) Zechariah, who had understanding in the visions of God: and
as long as (d) he sought the LORD, God made him to prosper.



(c) This was not the Zechariah that was the son of Jehoiada, but some other prophet of that name.



(d) For God never forsakes any who seek him, and therefore man is the cause of his own
destruction.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 26:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 26:8>2 Chronicles 26:8</verse></h3>



And the Ammonites gave (e) gifts to Uzziah: and his name spread abroad [even] to the entering in
of Egypt; for he strengthened [himself] exceedingly.



(e) That is, they paid tribute in a sign of subjection.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 26:9
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 26:9>2 Chronicles 26:9</verse></h3>



Moreover Uzziah built towers in Jerusalem at the corner gate, and at the valley gate, and at the (f)
turning [of the wall], and fortified them.



(f) Where the wall or tower turns.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 26:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 26:10>2 Chronicles 26:10</verse></h3>



Also he built towers in the desert, and digged many wells: for he had much cattle, both in the low
country, and in the plains: husbandmen [also], and vine dressers in the mountains, and in (g) Carmel:
for he loved husbandry.

<page=970>(g) That is, in mount Carmel, or as the word signifies in the fruitful field, it is also taken for a green
ear of corn when it is full, (<bcv=Lev 2:14>Lev 2:14</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 26:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 26:12>2 Chronicles 26:12</verse></h3>



The whole (h) number of the chief of the fathers of the mighty men of valour [were] two thousand
and six hundred.



(h) Of the chief officers of the king's house, or of the captains and sergeants for war.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 26:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 26:16>2 Chronicles 26:16</verse></h3>



But when he was strong, his heart (i) was lifted up to [his] destruction: for he transgressed against
the LORD his God, and went into the temple of the LORD to burn incense upon the altar of
incense.



(i) Thus prosperity causes men to trust in themselves and by forgetting him who is the author of it,
procure their own punishment.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 26:18
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 26:18>2 Chronicles 26:18</verse></h3>



And they withstood Uzziah the king, and said unto him, [It appertaineth] not unto thee, Uzziah, to
burn incense unto the LORD, but to the priests the sons of Aaron, that are consecrated to burn
incense: (k) go out of the sanctuary; for thou hast trespassed; neither [shall it be] for thine honour
from the LORD God.



(k) Though his zeal seemed to be good and also his intention, yet because they were not governed
by the word of God, he did wickedly and was therefore both justly resisted and also punished.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 26:21
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 26:21>2 Chronicles 26:21</verse></h3>



And Uzziah the king was a leper unto the day of his death, and dwelt in a (l) several house, [being] a
leper; for he was cut off from the house of the LORD: and Jotham his son [was] over the king's
house, judging the people of the land.



(l) According to the commandment of the Lord, (<bcv=Lev 13:46>Lev 13:46</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 26:23
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 26:23>2 Chronicles 26:23</verse></h3>



So Uzziah slept with his fathers, and they buried him with his fathers in the field of the burial which
[belonged] to the kings; for they said, He (m) [is] a leper: and Jotham his son reigned in his stead.



(m) Therefore was buried apart in the same field but not in the same sepulchre with his predecessors.

<h2>2 Chronicles 27</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 27:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 27:2>2 Chronicles 27:2</verse></h3>

<page=971>And he did [that which was] right in the sight of the LORD, according to all that his father Uzziah
did: howbeit he entered not into the (a) temple of the LORD. And the people did yet (b) corruptly.



(a) That is, to offer incense against the word of God, which is spoken of in the commendation of
Jotham.



(b) They were not completely purged from idolatry.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 27:3
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 27:3>2 Chronicles 27:3</verse></h3>



He built the high (c) gate of the house of the LORD, and on the wall of Ophel he built much.



(c) Which was 60 cubits high and was for the height called Ophel: it was at the east gate and mention
is made of it in (<bcv=2Ch 3:4>Ch2 3:4</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Chronicles 27:6
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 27:6>2 Chronicles 27:6</verse></h3>



So Jotham became mighty, (d) because he prepared his ways before the LORD his God.



(d) He shows that all prosperity comes from God, who never fails when we put our trust in him.

<h2>2 Chronicles 28</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 28:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 28:2>2 Chronicles 28:2</verse></h3>

<page=972>For (a) he walked in the ways of the kings of Israel, and made also molten images for (b) Baalim.



(a) He was an idolater like them.



(b) As the idolaters have certain chief idols, who are as patrons (as were these Baalim) so have they
others who are inferior and represent the great idols.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 28:6
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 28:6>2 Chronicles 28:6</verse></h3>



For (c) Pekah the son of Remaliah slew in Judah an hundred and twenty thousand in one day, [which
were] all valiant men; because they had forsaken the LORD God of their fathers.



(c) Who was king of Israel.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 28:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 28:8>2 Chronicles 28:8</verse></h3>



And the children of Israel carried away captive of their brethren (d) two hundred thousand, women,
sons, and daughters, and took also away much spoil from them, and brought the spoil to Samaria.



(d) Thus by the just judgment of God, Israel destroyed Judah.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 28:9
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 28:9>2 Chronicles 28:9</verse></h3>



But a prophet of the LORD was there, whose name [was] Oded: and he went out before the host
that came to Samaria, and said unto them, Behold, (e) because the LORD God of your fathers was
wroth with Judah, he hath delivered them into your hand, and ye have slain them in a rage [that]
reacheth up unto heaven.



(e) For they thought they had overcome them by their own valiantness, and did not consider that
God had delivered them into their hands, because Judah had offended him.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 28:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 28:10>2 Chronicles 28:10</verse></h3>



And now ye purpose to keep under the children of Judah and Jerusalem for bondmen and
bondwomen unto you: [but are there] not with you, even with you, (f) sins against the LORD your
God?



(f) May not God also punish you for your sins as he has done these men for theirs, seeing that yours
are greater?

#BCV:2 Chronicles 28:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 28:12>2 Chronicles 28:12</verse></h3>


Then certain of the heads of the children of (g) Ephraim, Azariah the son of Johanan, Berechiah
the son of Meshillemoth, and Jehizkiah the son of Shallum, and Amasa the son of Hadlai, stood up
against them that came from the war,



(g) Which tribe was now greatest and had most authority.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 28:13
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 28:13>2 Chronicles 28:13</verse></h3>



And said unto them, Ye shall not bring in the captives hither: for whereas we have (h) offended
against the LORD [already], ye intend to add [more] to our sins and to our trespass: for our trespass
is great, and [there is] fierce wrath against Israel.



(h) God will not allow this sin which we commit against him, to go unpunished.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 28:15
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 28:15>2 Chronicles 28:15</verse></h3>



And the men which were (i) expressed by name rose up, and took the captives, and with the spoil
clothed all that were naked among them, and arrayed them, and shod them, and gave them to eat
and to drink, and (k) anointed them, and carried all the feeble of them upon asses, and brought
them to Jericho, the city of palm trees, to their (l) brethren: then they returned to Samaria.



(i) Whose name were rehearsed before, (<bcv=2Ch 28:12>Ch2 28:12</bcv>).



(k) Either for their wounds or weariness.



(l) To them of the tribe of Judah.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 28:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 28:16>2 Chronicles 28:16</verse></h3>



At that time did king Ahaz send unto the (m) kings of Assyria to help him.



(m) To Tiglath Pileser and those kings who were under his dominion, (<bcv=II Ki 16:7>Kg2 16:7</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 28:19
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 28:19>2 Chronicles 28:19</verse></h3>



For the LORD brought Judah low because of Ahaz king of (n) Israel; for he made Judah naked, and
transgressed sore against the LORD.



(n) He means Judah, because Ahaz forsook the Lord and
sought help from the infidels. See <bcv=2Ch 15:17>Ch2 15:17</bcv> for when Judah was called Israel.

#BCV:2 Chronicles 28:23
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 28:23>2 Chronicles 28:23</verse></h3>

<page=974>For he sacrificed unto the gods of Damascus, which (o) smote him: and he said, Because the gods
of the kings of Syria help them, [therefore] will I sacrifice to them, that they may (p) help me. But
they were the ruin of him, and of all Israel.



(o) As he falsely supposed.



(p) Thus the wicked measure God's favour by prosperity and adversity: for if idolaters prosper, they
make their idols gods, not considering that God often punishes them whom he loves and gives his
enemies good success for a time whom afterward he will destroy.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 28:27
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 28:27>2 Chronicles 28:27</verse></h3>



And Ahaz slept with his fathers, and they buried him in the city, [even] in Jerusalem: but they
brought him not into the (q) sepulchres of the kings of Israel: and Hezekiah his son reigned in his
stead.



(q) They did not bury him in the city of David, where the sepulchres of the kings were.

<h2>2 Chronicles 29</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 29:3
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 29:3>2 Chronicles 29:3</verse></h3>

<page=975>He in the first year of his reign, in the (a) first month, opened the (b) doors of the house of the
LORD, and repaired them.



(a) This is a notable example for all princes, first to establish the pure religion of God and to
procure that the Lord may be honoured and served correctly.



(b) Which Ahaz had shut up, (<bcv=2Ch 28:24>Ch2 28:24</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Chronicles 29:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 29:5>2 Chronicles 29:5</verse></h3>



And said unto them, Hear me, ye Levites, sanctify now yourselves, and sanctify the house of the
LORD God of your fathers, and carry forth (c) the filthiness out of the holy [place].



(c) Meaning, all the idols, altar groves and whatever was occupied in their service and with which the
temple was polluted.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 29:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 29:8>2 Chronicles 29:8</verse></h3>




(d) Wherefore the wrath of the LORD was upon Judah and Jerusalem, and he hath delivered them
to trouble, to astonishment, and to hissing, as ye see with your eyes.



(d) He shows that the contempt of religion is the cause of all God's plagues.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 29:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 29:10>2 Chronicles 29:10</verse></h3>



Now [it is] in mine heart to make a covenant with the LORD God of Israel, that his fierce wrath
may (e) turn away from us.



(e) He proves by the judgments of God on those who have contemned his word, that there is no
way to avoid his plagues, but by conforming themselves to his will.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 29:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 29:16>2 Chronicles 29:16</verse></h3>



And the priests went into the inner part of the house of the LORD, to (f) cleanse [it], and brought
out all the uncleanness that they found in the temple of the LORD into the court of the house of
the LORD. And the Levites took [it], to carry [it] out abroad into the brook Kidron.



(f) From the pollution and filth that Ahaz had brought in.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 29:17
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 29:17>2 Chronicles 29:17</verse></h3>

<page=976>Now they began on the first [day] of the (g) first month to sanctify, and on the eighth day of the
month came they to the porch of the LORD: so they sanctified the house of the LORD in eight
days; and in the sixteenth day of the first month they made an end.



(g) Which contained part of March and part of April.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 29:20
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 29:20>2 Chronicles 29:20</verse></h3>



Then Hezekiah the king (h) rose early, and gathered the rulers of the city, and went up to the house
of the LORD.



(h) By this manner of speech the Hebrews mean a certain diligence and speed to do a thing: and
when there is no delay.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 29:22
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 29:22>2 Chronicles 29:22</verse></h3>



So they killed the bullocks, and the priests received the blood, and (i) sprinkled [it] on the altar:
likewise, when they had killed the rams, they sprinkled the blood upon the altar: they killed also the
lambs, and they sprinkled the blood upon the altar.



(i) For without sprinkling of blood nothing could be sanctified, (<bcv=Heb 9:21>Heb 9:21</bcv>;<bcv=Exo 24:8> Exo 24:8</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 29:23
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 29:23>2 Chronicles 29:23</verse></h3>



And they brought forth the he goats [for] the sin offering before the king and the congregation; (k)
and they laid their hands upon them:



(k) That is, the king and the elders, as in (<bcv=Lev 4:15>Lev 4:15</bcv>) for they who offered a sin offering must lay their
hands on it, to signify that they had deserved that death, and also that they consecrated it to God to
be sanctified by it, (<bcv=Exo 29:10>Exo 29:10</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 29:25
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 29:25>2 Chronicles 29:25</verse></h3>



And he set the Levites in the house of the LORD with cymbals, with psalteries, and with harps,
according to the commandment of David, and of Gad the king's seer, and Nathan the prophet: for
[so was] the (l) commandment of the LORD by his prophets.



(l) This thing was not appointed by man, but it was the commandment of God.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 29:27
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 29:27>2 Chronicles 29:27</verse></h3>



And Hezekiah commanded to offer the burnt offering upon the altar. And when the burnt offering
began, the song of the (m) LORD began [also] with the trumpets, and with the instruments
[ordained] (n) by David king of Israel.

<page=977>(m) The psalm which David had appointed to be sung for thanksgiving.



(n) Which David had appointed to praise the Lord with.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 29:30
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 29:30>2 Chronicles 29:30</verse></h3>



Moreover Hezekiah the king and the princes commanded the Levites to sing praise unto the LORD
with the (o) words of David, and of Asaph the seer. And they sang praises with gladness, and they
bowed their heads and worshipped.



(o) With the psalm mentioned in (<bcv=1Ch 16:8>Ch1 16:8</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Chronicles 29:33
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 29:33>2 Chronicles 29:33</verse></h3>



And the (p) consecrated things [were] six hundred oxen and three thousand sheep.



(p) That is, for the holy offerings.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 29:34
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 29:34>2 Chronicles 29:34</verse></h3>



But the priests were too few, so that they could not flay all the burnt offerings: wherefore their
brethren the Levites did help them, till the work was ended, and until the [other] priests had
sanctified themselves: for the Levites [were] (q) more upright in heart to sanctify themselves than the
priests.



(q) Meaning, were more zealous to set forth the religion.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 29:36
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 29:36>2 Chronicles 29:36</verse></h3>



And Hezekiah rejoiced, and all the people, that God had (r) prepared the people: for the thing was
[done] suddenly.



(r) He shows that religion cannot proceed unless God touches the heart of the people.

<h2>2 Chronicles 30</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 30:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 30:1>2 Chronicles 30:1</verse></h3>

<page=978>And Hezekiah sent to all Israel and Judah, and wrote letters also to (a) Ephraim and Manasseh, that
they should come to the house of the LORD at Jerusalem, to keep the passover unto the LORD
God of Israel.



(a) Meaning, all Israel, whom Tiglath Pilesar had not taken away into captivity, (<bcv=II Ki 15:29>Kg2 15:29</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 30:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 30:2>2 Chronicles 30:2</verse></h3>



For the king had taken counsel, and his princes, and all the congregation in Jerusalem, to keep the
passover in the (b) second month.



(b) Though they should have done it in the first month, as in (<bcv=Exo 12:18>Exo 12:18</bcv>;<bcv=Num 9:3> Num 9:3</bcv>), yet if any were
not clean or else had a long journey, they could delay it to the second month, as in (<bcv=Num 9:10-11>Num 9:10-11</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 30:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 30:5>2 Chronicles 30:5</verse></h3>



So they established a decree to make proclamation throughout all Israel, from (c) Beersheba even to
Dan, that they should come to keep the passover unto the LORD God of Israel at Jerusalem: for
they had not done [it] of a long [time in such sort] (d) as it was written.



(c) From one end of the land to the other, north and south.



(d) In such sort and perfection as God had appointed.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 30:6
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 30:6>2 Chronicles 30:6</verse></h3>



So the posts went with the letters from the king and his princes throughout all Israel and Judah, and
according to the commandment of the king, saying, Ye children of Israel, turn again unto the
LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, and (e) he will return to the remnant of you, that are
escaped out of the hand of the kings of Assyria.



(e) He will have compassion on them and preserve them.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 30:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 30:8>2 Chronicles 30:8</verse></h3>



Now be ye not stiffnecked, as your fathers [were, but] (f) yield yourselves unto the LORD, and enter
into his sanctuary, which he hath sanctified for ever: and serve the LORD your God, that the
fierceness of his wrath may turn away from you.



(f) Submit yourselves to the Lord, and rebel no more.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 30:9
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 30:9>2 Chronicles 30:9</verse></h3>

<page=979>For if ye turn again unto the LORD, your brethren and your children [shall find] compassion before
them that lead them captive, so that they shall (g) come again into this land: for the LORD your
God [is] gracious and merciful, and will not turn away [his] face from you, if ye return unto him.



(g) God will not only preserve you, but through your repentance restore your brethren, who for their
sins he gave into the hands of the enemies.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 30:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 30:10>2 Chronicles 30:10</verse></h3>



So the posts passed from city to city through the country of Ephraim and Manasseh even unto
Zebulun: but they (h) laughed them to scorn, and mocked them.



(h) Though the wicked mock the servants of God, by whom he calls them to repentance, as in (Gen
19:14), yet the word does not cease to ripen in the hearts of God's elect.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 30:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 30:12>2 Chronicles 30:12</verse></h3>



Also in Judah the hand of God was to give them one (i) heart to do the commandment of the king
and of the princes, by the word of the LORD.



(i) He shows the reason why some obey and some mock God's calling, that is, because his Spirit is
with the one sort and moves in their heart, and the others are left to themselves.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 30:14
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 30:14>2 Chronicles 30:14</verse></h3>



And they arose and took away the (k) altars that [were] in Jerusalem, and all the altars for incense
took they away, and cast [them] into the brook Kidron.



(k) Which declares that we must put away those things with which God is offended, before we can
serve him correctly.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 30:15
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 30:15>2 Chronicles 30:15</verse></h3>



Then they killed the passover on the fourteenth [day] of the second month: and the priests and the
Levites were (l) ashamed, and sanctified themselves, and brought in the burnt offerings into the
house of the LORD.



(l) Seeing their own negligence (who should have been most prompt) and the readiness of the
people, (<bcv=2Ch 29:36>Ch2 29:36</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Chronicles 30:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 30:16>2 Chronicles 30:16</verse></h3>


And they stood in their place after their manner, according to the law of Moses the man of God:
the priests sprinkled the (m) blood, [which they received] of the hand of the Levites.



(m) That is, of the lamb of the passover.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 30:18
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 30:18>2 Chronicles 30:18</verse></h3>



For a multitude of the people, [even] many of Ephraim, and Manasseh, Issachar, and Zebulun, had
not cleansed themselves, yet did they eat the passover otherwise than it was written. But Hezekiah
prayed for them, saying, The (n) good LORD pardon every one



(n) He knew that faith and sincerity of heart were more agreeable to God than the observation of
the ceremonies and therefore he prayed to God to pardon this fault to the people who did not
offend out of malice, but out of ignorance.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 30:20
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 30:20>2 Chronicles 30:20</verse></h3>



And the LORD hearkened to Hezekiah, and (o) healed the people.



(o) That is, accepted them as purified.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 30:24
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 30:24>2 Chronicles 30:24</verse></h3>



For Hezekiah king of Judah did give to the congregation a (p) thousand bullocks and seven
thousand sheep; and the princes gave to the congregation a thousand bullocks and ten thousand
sheep: and a great number of priests sanctified themselves.



(p) This great liberality declares how kings, princes and all they to whom God has given, should be
ready to bestow it in the setting forth of God's glory.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 30:27
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 30:27>2 Chronicles 30:27</verse></h3>



Then the priests the Levites arose and (q) blessed the people: and their voice was heard, and their
prayer came [up] to his holy dwelling place, [even] unto heaven.



(q) According to that which is written in (<bcv=Num 6:23>Num 6:23</bcv>) when they should dismiss the people.

<h2>2 Chronicles 31</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 31:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 31:1>2 Chronicles 31:1</verse></h3>

<page=981>Now when all this was finished, all Israel that were present went out to the cities of Judah, and (a)
brake the images in pieces, and cut down the groves, and threw down the high places and the altars
out of all Judah and Benjamin, in Ephraim also and Manasseh, until they had utterly destroyed them
all. Then all the (b) children of Israel returned, every man to his possession, into their own cities.



(a) According to the commandment of the Lord, (<bcv=Deu 7:25>Deu 7:25</bcv>;<bcv=Jos 7:12> Jos 7:12</bcv>).



(b) That is, all they who came to the passover.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 31:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 31:2>2 Chronicles 31:2</verse></h3>



And Hezekiah appointed the courses of the priests and the Levites after their courses, every man
according to his service, the priests and Levites for burnt offerings and for peace offerings, to
minister, and to give thanks, and to praise in the gates of the (c) tents of the LORD.



(c) That is, in the temple where they assembled as in a tent.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 31:4
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 31:4>2 Chronicles 31:4</verse></h3>



Moreover he commanded the people that dwelt in Jerusalem to give the (d) portion of the priests
and the Levites, that they might be (e) encouraged in the law of the LORD.



(d) The tithes and firstfruits for the maintenance of the priests and Levites.



(e) That their minds might not be entangled with provision of worldly things, but that they might
wholly and cheerfully serve the Lord.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 31:6
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 31:6>2 Chronicles 31:6</verse></h3>



And [concerning] the children of Israel and Judah, that dwelt in the cities of Judah, they also
brought in the tithe of oxen and sheep, and the tithe of holy things (f) which were consecrated unto
the LORD their God, and laid [them] by (g) heaps.



(f) Which they had dedicated to the Lord by a vow.



(g) For the relief of the priests, Levites, widows, pupils, fatherless, strangers, and such as were in
need.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 31:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 31:8>2 Chronicles 31:8</verse></h3>

<page=982>And when Hezekiah and the princes came and saw the heaps, they (h) blessed the LORD, and his
people Israel.



(h) They praised the Lord and prayed for all prosperity to his people.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 31:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 31:10>2 Chronicles 31:10</verse></h3>



And Azariah the chief priest of the house of Zadok answered him, and said, Since [the people]
began to bring the offerings into the house of the LORD, we have (i) had enough to eat, and have
left plenty: for the LORD hath blessed his people; and that which is left [is] this great store.



(i) He shows that this plenteous liberality is expedient for the maintenance of the ministers and that
God therefore prospers his people and increases by his blessing that which is given.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 31:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 31:16>2 Chronicles 31:16</verse></h3>



Beside their genealogy of males, (k) from three years old and upward, [even] unto every one that
entereth into the house of the LORD, his daily portion for their service in their charges according to
their courses;



(k) Who had also a portion and allowance in this distribution.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 31:18
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 31:18>2 Chronicles 31:18</verse></h3>



And to the genealogy of all their little ones, their wives, and their sons, and their daughters, through
all the congregation: for in their (l) set office they sanctified themselves in holiness:



(l) Meaning, that either by the faithful distribution of the officers, everyone had their part in the
things that were offered, or else that their wives and children were relieved, because the Levites were
faithful in their office, and so depended on them.

<h2>2 Chronicles 32</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:5>2 Chronicles 32:5</verse></h3>

<page=983>Also he strengthened himself, and built up all the wall that was broken, and raised [it] up to the
towers, and another wall without, and repaired (a) Millo [in] the (b) city of David, and made (c) darts
and shields in abundance.



(a) He made a double wall.



(b) Read (<bcv=II Sa 5:9>Sa2 5:9</bcv>).



(c) Some read, swords or daggers.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:8>2 Chronicles 32:8</verse></h3>



With him [is] an (d) arm of flesh; but with us [is] the (e) LORD our God to help us, and to fight our
battles. And the people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.



(d) That is, the power of man.



(e) This declares that Hezekiah always put his trust in God, and yet made himself strong and used
lawful means, lest he should seem to tempt God.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:9
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:9>2 Chronicles 32:9</verse></h3>



After this did Sennacherib king of Assyria send his servants to Jerusalem, (but he [himself laid siege]



(f) against Lachish, and all his power with him,) unto Hezekiah king of Judah, and unto all Judah
that [were] at Jerusalem, saying,



(f) While he besieged Lachish.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:12>2 Chronicles 32:12</verse></h3>



Hath not the same Hezekiah taken away his high places and his (g) altars, and commanded Judah
and Jerusalem, saying, Ye shall worship before one altar, and burn incense upon it?



(g) Thus the wicked put no difference between true religion and false, God and idols: for Hezekiah
only destroyed idolatry and replaced it with true religion. Thus the papists slander the servants of
God: for when they destroy idolatry, they say that they abolish religion.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:14
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:14>2 Chronicles 32:14</verse></h3>

<page=984>Who [was there] among all the (h) gods of those nations that my fathers utterly destroyed, that
could deliver his people out of mine hand, that your God should be able to deliver you out of mine
hand?



(h) This is his blasphemy that he will compare the living God to vile idols.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:15
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:15>2 Chronicles 32:15</verse></h3>



Now therefore let not Hezekiah deceive you, nor persuade you on this manner, neither yet believe
him: for no god of any nation or kingdom was able to deliver his people out of (i) mine hand, and
out of the hand of my fathers: how much less shall your God deliver you out of mine hand?



(i) When man has prosperity, he swells in pride, and thinks himself able to resist and overcome even
God himself.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:16>2 Chronicles 32:16</verse></h3>



And his servants spake yet [more] against the LORD God, and against his (k) servant Hezekiah.



(k) In this we see that when the wicked speak evil of the servants of God, they care not to
blaspheme God himself for if they feared God, they would love his servants.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:18
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:18>2 Chronicles 32:18</verse></h3>



Then they (l) cried with a loud voice in the Jews' speech unto the people of Jerusalem that [were] on
the wall, to affright them, and to trouble them; that they might take the city.



(l) Their words are written, (<bcv=II Ki 18:19>Kg2 18:19</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:19
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:19>2 Chronicles 32:19</verse></h3>



And they spake against the God of Jerusalem, as against the gods of the people of the earth, [which
were] the (m) work of the hands of man.



(m) Which were invented, made and authorized by man.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:20
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:20>2 Chronicles 32:20</verse></h3>



And for this [cause] Hezekiah the king, and the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz, (n) prayed and
cried to heaven.



(n) This shows what the best refuge in all troubles and dangers is.

#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:21
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:21>2 Chronicles 32:21</verse></h3>


And the LORD sent an angel, which cut off all the mighty men of valour, and the leaders and (o)
captains in the camp of the king of Assyria. So he returned with shame of face to his own land.
And when he was come into the house of his god, they that came forth of his (p) own bowels slew
him there with the sword.



(o) To the number of 185,000 as in (<bcv=II Ki 19:35-36>Kg2 19:35-36</bcv>).



(p) Meaning, Adrammelech and Sharezer his sons.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:23
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:23>2 Chronicles 32:23</verse></h3>



And many brought gifts unto the LORD to Jerusalem, and presents to Hezekiah king of Judah: so
that he was (q) magnified in the sight of all nations from thenceforth.



(q) Thus after trouble God sends comfort to all them who patiently wait on him, and constantly put
their trust in his mercies.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:24
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:24>2 Chronicles 32:24</verse></h3>



In those days Hezekiah was sick to the death, and prayed unto the LORD: and he spake unto him,
and he gave him (r) a sign.



(r) To confirm his faith in God's promise, who declared to him by his prophet that his life would be
prolonged fifteen years.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:25
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:25>2 Chronicles 32:25</verse></h3>



But Hezekiah rendered not again according to the benefit [done] unto him; for his heart (s) was
lifted up: therefore there was wrath upon him, and upon Judah and Jerusalem.



(s) He was lifted up with the pride of his victory and treasures, and shows them for an ostentation
to the ambassadors of Babylon.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:30
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:30>2 Chronicles 32:30</verse></h3>



This same Hezekiah also stopped the upper watercourse of (t) Gihon, and brought it straight down
to the west side of the city of David. And Hezekiah prospered in all his works.



(t) Which also was called Shiloh, of which mention is made in (<bcv=Isa 8:6>Isa 8:6</bcv>;<bcv=John 9:7> Joh 9:7</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 32:31
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 32:31>2 Chronicles 32:31</verse></h3>

<page=986>Howbeit in [the business of] the ambassadors of the princes of Babylon, who sent unto him to
enquire of the wonder that was [done] in the land, God left him, to (u) try him, that he might know
all [that was] in his heart.



(u) Here we see the reason why the faithful are tempted, which is to determine whether they have
faith or not, and that they may feel the presence of God who does not allow them to be overcome
by temptations, but in their weakness administers strength.

<h2>2 Chronicles 33</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 33:6
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 33:6>2 Chronicles 33:6</verse></h3>


<page=987>(a) And he caused his children to pass through the fire in the valley of the son of Hinnom: also he
observed times, and used enchantments, and used witchcraft, and dealt with a familiar spirit, and
with wizards: he wrought much evil in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger.



(a) Read (<bcv=II Ki 16:3>Kg2 16:3</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 33:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 33:8>2 Chronicles 33:8</verse></h3>



Neither will I any more remove the foot of Israel from out of the land which I have appointed for
your fathers; so that they will take heed to do all that I have commanded them, according to the
whole law and the statutes and the ordinances by the (b) hand of Moses.



(b) By the charge given to Moses.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 33:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 33:10>2 Chronicles 33:10</verse></h3>



And the LORD spake (c) to Manasseh, and to his people: but they would not hearken.



(c) Meaning by his prophets, but their hearts were not touched to believe and repent, without which
the preaching of the word has no effect.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 33:13
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 33:13>2 Chronicles 33:13</verse></h3>



And prayed unto him: and he was (d) intreated of him, and heard his supplication, and brought him
again to Jerusalem into his kingdom. Then Manasseh knew that the LORD he [was] God.



(d) Thus affliction gives understanding: for he that hated God in his prosperity now in his misery
seeks him.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 33:14
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 33:14>2 Chronicles 33:14</verse></h3>



Now after this he built a wall without the city of David, on the west side of (e) Gihon, in the valley,
even to the entering in at the fish gate, and compassed about (f) Ophel, and raised it up a very great
height, and put captains of war in all the fenced cities of Judah.



(e) Read (<bcv=2Ch 32:30>Ch2 32:30</bcv>).



(f) Read (<bcv=2Ch 27:3>Ch2 27:3</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Chronicles 33:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 33:16>2 Chronicles 33:16</verse></h3>

<page=988>And he repaired the (g) altar of the LORD, and sacrificed thereon peace offerings and thank
offerings, and commanded Judah to serve the LORD God of Israel.



(g) Which Solomon had caused to be made.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 33:17
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 33:17>2 Chronicles 33:17</verse></h3>



Nevertheless the people did sacrifice still in the high places, [yet] unto the (h) LORD their God only.



(h) Thus by ignorance they were deceived, thinking it nothing to keep the altars, so that they
worshipped God: but it is idolatry to worship God any other way than he has appointed.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 33:18
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 33:18>2 Chronicles 33:18</verse></h3>



Now the rest of the acts of Manasseh, and his (i) prayer unto his God, and the words of the seers
that spake to him in the name of the LORD God of Israel, behold, they [are written] in the book of
the kings of Israel.



(i) Which although it is not contained in the Hebrew, yet because it is here mentioned and is written
in the Greek, we have placed it in the end of this book.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 33:20
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 33:20>2 Chronicles 33:20</verse></h3>



So Manasseh slept with his fathers, and they buried him in his own (k) house: and Amon his son
reigned in his stead.



(k) Because he had so horribly offended against the Lord, they did not bury him in the sepulchres of
the kings, but in the garden of the king's house.

<h2>2 Chronicles 34</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:2>2 Chronicles 34:2</verse></h3>



And he did [that which was] right in the sight of the LORD, and walked in the ways of (a) David his
father, and declined [neither] to the right hand, nor to the left.



(a) He followed David in all points that he followed the Lord.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:3
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:3>2 Chronicles 34:3</verse></h3>



For in the eighth year of his reign, while he was yet (b) young, he began to seek after the God of
David his father: and in the twelfth year he began to purge Judah and Jerusalem from the high places,
and the groves, and the carved images, and the molten images.

<page=989>(b) When he was but sixteen years old he showed himself zealous of God's glory, and at twenty
years old he abolished idolatry and restored the true religion.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:4
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:4>2 Chronicles 34:4</verse></h3>



And they brake down (c) the altars of Baalim in his presence; and the images, that [were] on high
above them, he cut down; and the groves, and the carved images, and the molten images, he brake in
pieces, and made dust [of them], and strowed [it] upon the graves of them that had sacrificed unto
them.



(c) Which shows that he would see the reformation with his own eyes.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:5>2 Chronicles 34:5</verse></h3>



And he burnt the (d) bones of the priests upon their altars, and cleansed Judah and Jerusalem.



(d) Read (<bcv=II Ki 23:16>Kg2 23:16</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:7
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:7>2 Chronicles 34:7</verse></h3>



And when he had (d) broken down the altars and the groves, and had beaten the graven images into
powder, and cut down all the idols throughout all the land of Israel, he returned to Jerusalem.



(d) This great zeal of this godly king the Holy Spirit sets forth as an example and pattern to other
kings and rulers, to teach them what God requires of them.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:10
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:10>2 Chronicles 34:10</verse></h3>




(e) And they put [it] in the hand of the workmen that had the oversight of the house of the LORD,
and they gave it to the workmen that wrought in the house of the LORD, to repair and amend the
house:



(e) Meaning Shaphan, etc.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:11
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:11>2 Chronicles 34:11</verse></h3>



Even to the artificers and builders gave they [it], to buy hewn stone, and timber for couplings, and to
floor the (f) houses which the kings of Judah had destroyed.



(f) For there were many portions and pieces annexed to the temple.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:12>2 Chronicles 34:12</verse></h3>

<page=990>And the men did the work (g) faithfully: and the overseers of them [were] Jahath and Obadiah, the
Levites, of the sons of Merari; and Zechariah and Meshullam, of the sons of the Kohathites, to set
[it] forward; and [other of] the Levites, all that could skill of instruments of musick.



(g) Meaning that they were in such credit for their fidelity that they made no accounts of that which
they received, (<bcv=II Ki 22:7>Kg2 22:7</bcv>,<bcv=2Ki 22:9> Kg2 22:9).</bcv>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:14
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:14>2 Chronicles 34:14</verse></h3>



And when they brought out the money that was brought into the house of the LORD, Hilkiah the
priest found a (h) book of the law of the LORD [given] by Moses.



(h) Read (<bcv=II Ki 22:8>Kg2 22:8</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:16>2 Chronicles 34:16</verse></h3>



And Shaphan carried the book to (i) the king, and brought the king word back again, saying, All that
was committed to thy servants, they do [it].



(i) For the king was commanded to continually have a copy of this book and to read in it day and
night, (<bcv=Deu 17:18>Deu 17:18</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:19
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:19>2 Chronicles 34:19</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when the king had heard the words of the law, that he (k) rent his clothes.



(k) For sorrow that the word of God had been so long suppressed and the people kept in ignorance,
considering also the curses contained in it against the transgressors.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:21
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:21>2 Chronicles 34:21</verse></h3>



Go, enquire of the LORD for me, and for them that are left in Israel and in Judah, concerning the
words of the book that is found: for great [is] the wrath of the LORD that is poured out upon us,
because our (l) fathers have not kept the word of the LORD, to do after all that is written in this
book.



(l) Thus the godly not only lament their own sins, but also that their fathers and predecessors have
offended God.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:22
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:22>2 Chronicles 34:22</verse></h3>



And Hilkiah, and [they] that the king [had appointed], went to Huldah the prophetess, the wife of
Shallum the son of Tikvath, the son of Hasrah, keeper of the (m) wardrobe; (now she dwelt in
Jerusalem in the (n) college:) and they spake to her to that [effect].

<page=991>(m) Meaning, either of the priests apparel or the kings.



(n) Read (<bcv=II Ki 22:15>Kg2 22:15</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:23
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:23>2 Chronicles 34:23</verse></h3>



And she answered them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Tell ye (o) the man that sent you to
me,



(o) That is, to the king.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:25
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:25>2 Chronicles 34:25</verse></h3>



Because they have forsaken me, and have burned incense unto other gods, that they might provoke
me to anger with all the works of their (p) hands; therefore my wrath shall be poured out upon this
place, and shall not be quenched.



(p) This she speaks in contempt of the idolaters, who contrary to reason and nature call a god that
which they have made and framed with their own hands.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:27
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:27>2 Chronicles 34:27</verse></h3>



Because thine heart was (q) tender, and thou didst humble thyself before God, when thou heardest
his words against this place, and against the inhabitants thereof, and humbledst thyself before me,
and didst rend thy clothes, and weep before me; I have even heard [thee] also, saith the LORD.



(q) This declares the end of God's threatenings, to call his to repentance, and to assure the
unrepentant of their destruction.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:28
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:28>2 Chronicles 34:28</verse></h3>



Behold, I will gather thee to thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered to thy grave in peace, neither
shall thine eyes see all the evil that I will bring upon this (r) place, and upon the inhabitants of the
same. So they brought the king word again.



(r) It may appear that very few were touched with true repentance, seeing that God spared them for
a time only for the king's sake.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:30
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:30>2 Chronicles 34:30</verse></h3>



And the king went up into the house of the LORD, and all the men of Judah, and the inhabitants of
Jerusalem, and the priests, and the Levites, and all the people, great and (s) small: and he read in their
ears all the words of the book of the covenant that was found in the house of the LORD.

<page=992>(s) Though neither young nor old could be exempted from the curses contained in it, if they did
transgress, he knew it pertained to all and was his duty to see it read to all sorts, that everyone might
learn to avoid those punishments by serving God correctly.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 34:33
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 34:33>2 Chronicles 34:33</verse></h3>



And Josiah took away all the abominations out of all the countries that [pertained] to the children of
Israel, and made all (t) that were present in Israel to serve, [even] to serve the LORD their God.
[And] all his days they departed not from following the LORD, the God of their fathers.



(t) Because he had charge over all, and must answer for everyone that perished: he thought it his
duty to see that all should make profession to receive the word of God.

<h2>2 Chronicles 35</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 35:1
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 35:1>2 Chronicles 35:1</verse></h3>

<page=993>Moreover Josiah kept a passover unto the LORD in Jerusalem: and they killed the (a) passover on
the fourteenth [day] of the first month.



(a) The scripture in various places calls the lamb the "passover" even though it is only the sign of the
passover for in all sacraments the signs have the names of the things signified.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 35:3
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 35:3>2 Chronicles 35:3</verse></h3>



And said unto the Levites that (b) taught all Israel, which were holy unto the LORD, Put the holy
ark in the house which Solomon the son of David king of Israel did build; [it shall] not [be] a (c)
burden upon [your] shoulders: serve now the LORD your God, and his people Israel,



(b) So that the Levites charge was not only to minister in the temple, but also to instruct the people
in the word of God.



(c) As it was before the temple was built: therefore your office is to teach the people and to praise
God.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 35:6
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 35:6>2 Chronicles 35:6</verse></h3>



So kill the passover, and sanctify yourselves, and (d) prepare your brethren, that [they] may do
according to the word of the LORD by the hand of Moses.



(d) Exhort everyone to examine themselves to ensure that they are not unfit to eat the passover.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 35:9
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 35:9>2 Chronicles 35:9</verse></h3>




(e) Conaniah also, and Shemaiah and Nethaneel, his brethren, and Hashabiah and Jeiel and Jozabad,
chief of the Levites, gave unto the Levites for passover offerings five thousand [small cattle], and
five hundred oxen.



(e) So that every one and of all sorts gave of what they had, a liberal portion to the service of God.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 35:11
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 35:11>2 Chronicles 35:11</verse></h3>



And they killed the passover, and the priests (f) sprinkled [the blood] from their hands, and the
Levites flayed [them].



(f) Meaning, of the lamb, which was called the passover, for only the priests could sprinkle, and in
necessity the Levites could kill the sacrifice.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 35:12
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 35:12>2 Chronicles 35:12</verse></h3>

<page=994>And they removed the (g) burnt offerings, that they might give according to the divisions of the
families of the people, to offer unto the LORD, as [it is] written in the book of Moses. And so [did
they] with the oxen.



(g) They reserved for the people that which was not expedient to be offered, that every man might
offer peace offerings, and so have his portion.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 35:15
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 35:15>2 Chronicles 35:15</verse></h3>



And the singers the sons of Asaph [were] in their place, according to the commandment of David,
and Asaph, and Heman, and Jeduthun the king's (h) seer; and the porters [waited] at every gate; they
might not depart from their service; for their brethren the Levites prepared for them.



(h) Meaning, by this his prophet, because he appointed the psalms and prophecies which were to be
sung.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 35:19
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 35:19>2 Chronicles 35:19</verse></h3>



In (i) the eighteenth year of the reign of Josiah was this passover kept.



(i) Which was in his 26th year.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 35:20
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 35:20>2 Chronicles 35:20</verse></h3>



After all this, when Josiah had prepared the temple, Necho king of Egypt came up to fight against (k)
Carchemish by Euphrates: and Josiah went out against him.



(k) Which was a city of the Assyrians and Josiah fearing lest in passing through Judah he would have
taken his kingdom, made war against him and did not consult the Lord.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 35:22
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 35:22>2 Chronicles 35:22</verse></h3>



Nevertheless Josiah would not turn his face from him, but (l) disguised himself, that he might fight
with him, and hearkened not unto the words of Necho from the mouth of God, and came to fight
in the valley of Megiddo.



(l) That is, armed or disguised himself so that he would not be recognized.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 35:24
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 35:24>2 Chronicles 35:24</verse></h3>

<page=995>His servants therefore took him out of that chariot, and put him in the second chariot that he had;
and they brought him to Jerusalem, and he died, and was buried in [one of] the sepulchres of his
fathers. And all Judah and Jerusalem (m) mourned for Josiah.



(m) The people so lamented the loss of this good king that after when there was any great
lamentation this was spoken of as a proverb, (<bcv=Zec 12:11>Zac 12:11</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 35:25
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 35:25>2 Chronicles 35:25</verse></h3>



And Jeremiah lamented for Josiah: and all the singing men and the singing women spake of Josiah in
their lamentations to this day, and made them an ordinance in Israel: and, behold, they [are] written
in the (n) lamentations.



(n) Which some think Jeremiah wrote, in which he laments the state of the church after this king's
death.

<h2>2 Chronicles 36</h2>

#BCV:2 Chronicles 36:2
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 36:2>2 Chronicles 36:2</verse></h3>

<page=996>Jehoahaz [was] twenty and three years old when he began to reign, and he reigned three (a) months
in Jerusalem.



(a) Three months after the death of Josiah, Necho came to Jerusalem, and so the plagues began,
which Huldah and the prophets forewarned would come on Jerusalem.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 36:3
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 36:3>2 Chronicles 36:3</verse></h3>



And the king of Egypt put him down at Jerusalem, and condemned the land in an (b) hundred
talents of silver and a talent of gold.



(b) To pay this as a yearly tribute.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 36:5
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 36:5>2 Chronicles 36:5</verse></h3>



Jehoiakim [was] twenty and five years old when he began to reign, and he reigned eleven years in
Jerusalem: and he did [that which was] (c) evil in the sight of the LORD his God.



(c) Because he and the people did not turn to God by his first plague, he brought a new one on him,
and at length rooted them out.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 36:8
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 36:8>2 Chronicles 36:8</verse></h3>



Now the rest of the acts of Jehoiakim, and his abominations which he did, and (d) that which was
found in him, behold, they [are] written in the book of the kings of Israel and Judah: and Jehoiachin
his son reigned in his stead.



(d) He means superstitious marks which were found on his body when he was dead, which declared
how deeply idolatry was rooted in his heart, seeing he bore the marks in his flesh.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 36:9
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 36:9>2 Chronicles 36:9</verse></h3>



Jehoiachin [was] (e) eight years old when he began to reign, and he reigned three months and ten
days in Jerusalem: and he did [that which was] evil in the sight of the LORD.



(e) That is, he began his reign at eight years old, and reigned ten years when his father was alive, and
after his father's death, which was in his eighteenth year, he reigned alone three months and ten days.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 36:15
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 36:15>2 Chronicles 36:15</verse></h3>

<page=997>And the LORD God of their fathers sent to them by his messengers, (f) rising up betimes, and
sending; because he had compassion on his people, and on his dwelling place:



(f) By this phrase the scripture means often and diligently as in (<bcv=Jer 11:7>Jer 11:7</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 25:3> Jer 25:3</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 26:5> Jer 26:5</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 32:33> Jer 32:33</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 36:16
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 36:16>2 Chronicles 36:16</verse></h3>



But they mocked the messengers of God, and despised his words, and misused his prophets, until
the wrath of the LORD arose against his people, till [there was] no (g) remedy.



(g) Till God could no longer allow their sins, but must punish them.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 36:17
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 36:17>2 Chronicles 36:17</verse></h3>



Therefore he brought upon them the king of the Chaldees, who slew their young men with the
sword (h) in the house of their sanctuary, and had no compassion upon young man or maiden, old
man, or him that stooped for age: he (i) gave [them] all into his hand.



(h) Where they fled, thinking to have been saved for the holiness of it.



(i) Which is not because God approves him, who yet is the minister of his justice, but because God
would by his just judgment punish this people: for this king was led with ambition and vain glory, to
which were joined fury and cruelty: therefore his work was condemnable, even though it was just
and holy on God's part, who used this wicked instrument to declare his justice.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 36:20
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 36:20>2 Chronicles 36:20</verse></h3>



And them that had escaped from the sword carried he away to Babylon; where they were servants to
him and his sons until the reign of the kingdom of (k) Persia:



(k) When Gyrus king of Persia had made the Babylonians subject.
#BCV:2 Chronicles 36:21
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 36:21>2 Chronicles 36:21</verse></h3>



To fulfil the word of the LORD by the (l) mouth of Jeremiah, until the land had enjoyed her
sabbaths: [for] as long as she lay desolate she kept sabbath, to fulfil threescore and ten years.



(l) Who threatened the vengeance of God and 70 years captivity, which he called the sabbaths or rest
of the land, (<bcv=Jer 25:11>Jer 25:11</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 36:22
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 36:22>2 Chronicles 36:22</verse></h3>

<page=998>Now in the (m) first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD [spoken] by the
mouth of Jeremiah might be accomplished, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia,
that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and [put it] also in writing, saying,



(m) In the first year that he reigned over the Chaldeans, (<bcv=Ezra 1:1>Ezr 1:1</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Chronicles 36:23
<h3><verse=2 Chronicles 36:23>2 Chronicles 36:23</verse></h3>



Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, All the kingdoms of the earth hath the LORD God of heaven
given me; and he hath (n) charged me to build him an house in Jerusalem, which [is] in Judah. Who
[is there] among you of all his people? The LORD his God [be] with him, and let him go up.



(n) God had so forewarned by his prophet over 100 years before Cyrus was born, (<bcv=Isa 44:28>Isa 44:28</bcv>) that
Jerusalem and the temple would be rebuilt by Cyrus his anointed: so called because God used his
service for a time to deliver his Church.

<h1>Ezra</h1>

<h2>Ezra 1</h2>

#BCV:Ezra 1:1
<h3><verse=Ezra 1:1>Ezra 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=999>Now in the (a) first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD by the (b) mouth of
Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the LORD stirred up the (c) spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, that he made
a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and [put it] also in writing, saying,

The Argument - As the Lord is always merciful to his Church, and does not punish them, but so
that they should see their own miseries, and be exercised under the cross, that they might contemn
the world, and aspire to the heavens: so after he had visited the Jews, and kept them in bondage 70
years in a strange country among infidels and idolaters, he remembered his tender mercies and their
infirmities, and therefore for his own sake raised up a deliverer, and moved both the heart of the
chief ruler to pity them, and also by him punished those who had kept them in slavery. Nonetheless,
lest they should grow into a contempt of God's great benefits, he keeps them still in exercise, and
raises domestic enemies, who try as much as they can to hinder their worthy enterprises: yet by the
exhortation of the prophet they went forward little by little till their work was finished. The author
of this book was Ezra, who was a priest and scribe of the Law, as in (<bcv=Ezra 7:6>Ezr 7:6</bcv>). He returned to
Jerusalem the sixth year of Darius, who succeeded Cyrus, that is, about fifty years after the first
return under Zerubbabel, when the temple was built. He brought with him a great company and
much treasure, with letters to the king's officers for all things needed for the temple: and at his
coming he fixed that which was amiss, and set things in order.

(a) After he and Darius had won Babylon.

(b) Who promised deliverance to them after 70 years were past, (<bcv=Jer 25:12>Jer 25:12</bcv>).

(c) That is, moved him and gave him heart.
#BCV:Ezra 1:2
<h3><verse=Ezra 1:2>Ezra 1:2</verse></h3>

Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, The LORD God of heaven hath given me (d) all the kingdoms of
the earth; and he hath charged me to build him an house at Jerusalem, which [is] in Judah.

(d) For he was chief monarch and had many nations under his dominion, which this heathen king
confesses to have received from the living God.
#BCV:Ezra 1:4
<h3><verse=Ezra 1:4>Ezra 1:4</verse></h3>

<page=1000>And whosoever remaineth in any place where he sojourneth, (e) let the men of his place help him
with silver, and with gold, and with goods, and with beasts, (f) beside the freewill offering for the
house of God that [is] in Jerusalem.

(e) If any through poverty were not able to return, the king's commission was that he should be
furnished with all he needed.

(f) Which they themselves should send for the repairing of the temple.
#BCV:Ezra 1:6
<h3><verse=Ezra 1:6>Ezra 1:6</verse></h3>

And all (g) they that [were] about them strengthened their hands with vessels of silver, with gold,
with goods, and with beasts, and with precious things, beside all [that] was willingly offered.



(g) The Babylonians and Chaldeans gave them these presents: thus rather than have the children of
God be in need, he would stir the heart of the infidels to help them.
#BCV:Ezra 1:8
<h3><verse=Ezra 1:8>Ezra 1:8</verse></h3>



Even those did Cyrus king of Persia bring forth by the hand of Mithredath the treasurer, and
numbered them unto (h) Sheshbazzar, the prince of Judah.



(h) So the Chaldeans called Zerubbabel who was the chief governor, so that the preeminence still
remained in the house of David.
#BCV:Ezra 1:9
<h3><verse=Ezra 1:9>Ezra 1:9</verse></h3>



And this [is] the number of them: thirty chargers of gold, a thousand chargers of silver, nine and
twenty (i) knives,



(i) Which served to kill the beasts that were offered in sacrifice.
#BCV:Ezra 1:11
<h3><verse=Ezra 1:11>Ezra 1:11</verse></h3>



All the vessels of gold and of silver [were] five thousand and four hundred. All [these] did
Sheshbazzar bring up (k) with [them of] the captivity that were brought up from Babylon unto
Jerusalem.



(k) With the Jews who had been kept captive in Babylon.

<h2>Ezra 2</h2>

#BCV:Ezra 2:1
<h3><verse=Ezra 2:1>Ezra 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=1001>Now these [are] the children (a) of the province that went up out of the captivity, of those which
had been carried away, whom Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon had carried away unto Babylon,
and came again unto Jerusalem and Judah, every one unto his city;



(a) Meaning Judea, which was a province that is, a country which was in subjection.
#BCV:Ezra 2:2
<h3><verse=Ezra 2:2>Ezra 2:2</verse></h3>



Which came with (b) Zerubbabel: Jeshua, Nehemiah, Seraiah, Reelaiah, (c) Mordecai, Bilshan,
Mispar, Bigvai, Rehum, Baanah. The number (d) of the men of the people of Israel:



(b) Zerubbabel was chief captain and Joshua the high priest: but Nehemiah a man of great authority
did not come now, but came after 64 years.



(c) This was not the Mordecai who was Esther's kinsman.



(d) Meaning, of the common people.

#BCV:Ezra 2:16
<h3><verse=Ezra 2:16>Ezra 2:16</verse></h3>

The children of Ater of (e) Hezekiah, ninety and eight.

(e) Who were of the posterity of Hezekiah.

#BCV:Ezra 2:21
<h3><verse=Ezra 2:21>Ezra 2:21</verse></h3>

(f) The children of Bethlehem, an hundred twenty and three.

(f) That is inhabitants, for so this word

(some) signifies when it is joined with the names of places.

#BCV:Ezra 2:36
<h3><verse=Ezra 2:36>Ezra 2:36</verse></h3>

The (g) priests: the children of Jedaiah, of the house of Jeshua, nine hundred seventy and three.

(g) Before he has declared the two tribes of Judah and Benjamin, and now comes to the tribe of
Levi and begins at the priests.

#BCV:Ezra 2:43
<h3><verse=Ezra 2:43>Ezra 2:43</verse></h3>

<page=1002>The (h) Nethinims: the children of Ziha, the children of Hasupha, the children of Tabbaoth,

(h) So called because they were given to the temple, to cut wood and bear water for the use of the
sacrifices and came of the Gibeonites who were appointed to this use by Joshua, (<bcv=Jos 9:23>Jos 9:23</bcv>).

#BCV:Ezra 2:55
<h3><verse=Ezra 2:55>Ezra 2:55</verse></h3>

The children of Solomon's (i) servants: the children of Sotai, the children of Sophereth, the children
of Peruda,

(i) Which came of them that Solomon had appointed for the work of the temple.

#BCV:Ezra 2:61
<h3><verse=Ezra 2:61>Ezra 2:61</verse></h3>

And of the children of the priests: the children of Habaiah, the children of Koz, the children of (k)
Barzillai; which took a wife of the daughters of Barzillai the Gileadite, and was called after their
name:

(k) He is mentioned in (<bcv=II Sa 17:27>Sa2 17:27</bcv>,<bcv=2Sa 19:31> Sa2 19:31)</bcv> and because the priest's office was held in contempt
these would have changed their estate by their name, and so by God's just judgment lost both the
estimation of the world and the dignity of their office.

#BCV:Ezra 2:63
<h3><verse=Ezra 2:63>Ezra 2:63</verse></h3>

And the (l) Tirshatha said unto them, that they should not eat of the most holy things, till there
stood up a priest with (m) Urim and with Thummim.

(l) This is a Chaldee name, and signifies him who has authority over others.

(m) Read (<bcv=Exo 28:30>Exo 28:30</bcv>).

#BCV:Ezra 2:69
<h3><verse=Ezra 2:69>Ezra 2:69</verse></h3>

They gave after their ability unto the treasure of the work threescore and one thousand (n) drams of
gold, and five thousand (o) pounds of silver, and one hundred priests' garments.



(n) Which in our money amounts to 24,826 pounds, 13 shillings and 4 pence, valuing the french
crown at 6 shillings and 4 pence for the dram is the eighth part of an ounce, and the ounce the
eighth part of a mark.



(o) Which are called "mina" and contain 2 marks apiece, so 50,000 minas make 55,000 franks which
in our money amounts to 69,666 pounds, 13 shillings and 4 pence so that the whole sum was 94,493
pounds, 6 shillings, and 8 pence.

<h2>Ezra 3</h2>

#BCV:Ezra 3:1
<h3><verse=Ezra 3:1>Ezra 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=1003>And when the (a) seventh month was come, and the children of Israel [were] in the cities, the people
gathered themselves together as one man to Jerusalem.



(a) Called Tishri which had part of September and part of October.
#BCV:Ezra 3:2
<h3><verse=Ezra 3:2>Ezra 3:2</verse></h3>



Then stood up Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and his brethren the priests, and Zerubbabel the (b) son
of Shealtiel, and his brethren, and builded the altar of the God of Israel, to offer burnt offerings
thereon, as [it is] written in the law of Moses the man of God.



(b) Meaning nephew, for he was the son of Pedaiah, (<bcv=1Ch 3:19>Ch1 3:19</bcv>).

#BCV:Ezra 3:3
<h3><verse=Ezra 3:3>Ezra 3:3</verse></h3>



And they set the altar upon (c) his bases; for fear [was] upon them because of the people of those
countries: and they offered burnt offerings thereon unto the LORD, [even] burnt offerings morning
and evening.



(c) In the place where Solomon had placed it.
#BCV:Ezra 3:5
<h3><verse=Ezra 3:5>Ezra 3:5</verse></h3>



And afterward [offered] (d) the continual burnt offering, both of the new moons, and of all the set
feasts of the LORD that were consecrated, and of every one that willingly offered a freewill offering
unto the LORD.



(d) That is, after the feast of tabernacles.
#BCV:Ezra 3:8
<h3><verse=Ezra 3:8>Ezra 3:8</verse></h3>



Now in the second year of their coming unto the house of God at Jerusalem, in the (e) second
month, began Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and the remnant of
their brethren the priests and the Levites, and all they that were come out of the captivity unto
Jerusalem; and appointed the Levites, from twenty years old and upward, to set forward the work of
the house of the LORD.



(e) Which contains part of April and part of May, for in the mean season they had provided for
things needed for the work.
#BCV:Ezra 3:9
<h3><verse=Ezra 3:9>Ezra 3:9</verse></h3>

<page=1004>Then stood Jeshua (f) [with] his sons and his brethren, Kadmiel and his sons, the sons of Judah,
together, to set forward the workmen in the house of God: the sons of Henadad, [with] their sons
and their brethren the Levites.



(f) They gave them exhortations and encouraged every man forward in the work.
#BCV:Ezra 3:12
<h3><verse=Ezra 3:12>Ezra 3:12</verse></h3>



But many of the priests and Levites and chief of the fathers, [who were] ancient men, that had seen
the first house, when the foundation of this house was laid before their eyes, (g) wept with a loud
voice; and many shouted aloud for joy:



(g) Because they saw that it was not nearly as glorious as the temple Solomon had built, nonetheless
Aggeus comforted them and prophesied that it would be more beautiful than the first, meaning the
spiritual temple, they who are the members of Christ's body.

<h2>Ezra 4</h2>

#BCV:Ezra 4:1
<h3><verse=Ezra 4:1>Ezra 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=1005>Now when (a) the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin heard that the children of the captivity
builded the temple unto the LORD God of Israel;

(a) Meaning, the inhabitants of Samaria, whom the king of Assyria had placed in the place of the
ten tribes, (<bcv=II Ki 17:24>Kg2 17:24</bcv>,<bcv=2Ki 19:37> Kg2 19:37).</bcv> They professed God but worshipped idols and therefore were the
greatest enemies to the true servants of God.
#BCV:Ezra 4:3
<h3><verse=Ezra 4:3>Ezra 4:3</verse></h3>



But Zerubbabel, and Jeshua, and the rest of the chief of the fathers of Israel, said unto them, Ye
have nothing to do with us to build an house unto our God; (b) but we ourselves together will build
unto the LORD God of Israel, as king Cyrus the king of Persia hath commanded us.



(b) For they knew their pretence, that is to erect idolatry instead of true religion.
#BCV:Ezra 4:5
<h3><verse=Ezra 4:5>Ezra 4:5</verse></h3>



And (c) hired counsellors against them, to frustrate their purpose, all the days of Cyrus king of
Persia, even until the reign of Darius king of Persia.



(c) They bribed the governors under the king to hinder their work, thus they that hinder cannot
understand that God would be purely served.
#BCV:Ezra 4:6
<h3><verse=Ezra 4:6>Ezra 4:6</verse></h3>



And in the reign of (d) Ahasuerus, in the beginning of his reign, wrote they [unto him] an
accusation against the inhabitants of Judah and Jerusalem.



(d) He was also called Artaxerxes which is a Persian name, some think it was Cambises Cyrus' son,
or Darius, as in (<bcv=Ezra 4:5>Ezr 4:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezra 4:7
<h3><verse=Ezra 4:7>Ezra 4:7</verse></h3>



And in the days of (e) Artaxerxes wrote Bishlam, Mithredath, Tabeel, and the rest of their
companions, unto Artaxerxes king of Persia; and the writing of the letter [was] written in the Syrian
tongue, and interpreted in the Syrian tongue.



(e) Called Artaxerxes, which signifies in the Persian tongue an excellent warrior.
#BCV:Ezra 4:9
<h3><verse=Ezra 4:9>Ezra 4:9</verse></h3>

#BCV:ezr 4:9
<h3><verse=ezr 4:9>ezr 4:9</verse></h3>




(f) Dinaites, the Apharsathchites, the Tarpelites, the Apharsites, the Archevites, the Babylonians, the
Susanchites, the Dehavites, [and] the Elamites,



(f) These were people whom the Assyrians placed in Samaria instead of the ten tribes.
#BCV:Ezra 4:10
<h3><verse=Ezra 4:10>Ezra 4:10</verse></h3>



And the rest of the nations whom the great and noble (g) Asnappar brought over, and set in the
cities of Samaria, and the rest [that are] on this side the (h) river, and (i) at such a time.



(g) Some think it was not Sennacherib, but rather Salmanasar.



(h) That is, Euphrates, and he means in respect to Babel that they dwelt beyond it.



(i) Or Cheeneth, who were a certain people who envied the Jews.
#BCV:Ezra 4:13
<h3><verse=Ezra 4:13>Ezra 4:13</verse></h3>



Be it known now unto the king, that, if this city be builded, and the walls set up [again, then] will
they not pay toll, tribute, and (k) custom, and [so] thou shalt endamage the revenue of the kings.



(k) Meaning, the gifts that are wont to be given to kings when they pass by any country.
#BCV:Ezra 4:17
<h3><verse=Ezra 4:17>Ezra 4:17</verse></h3>



[Then] sent the king an answer unto Rehum the chancellor, and [to] Shimshai the scribe, and [to] the
rest of their companions that dwell in Samaria, and [unto] the rest beyond the river, (l) Peace, and (m)
at such a time.



(l) Or Shalom, salvation or greeting.



(m) Or, Cheeth, also called Cheeneth as in (<bcv=Ezra 4:10>Ezr 4:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezra 4:24
<h3><verse=Ezra 4:24>Ezra 4:24</verse></h3>



Then (n) ceased the work of the house of God which [is] at Jerusalem. So it ceased unto the second
year of the reign of Darius king of Persia.



(n) Not altogether for the prophets exhorted them to continue but they used less diligence because
of the troubles.

<h2>Ezra 5</h2>

#BCV:Ezra 5:2
<h3><verse=Ezra 5:2>Ezra 5:2</verse></h3>

<page=1007>Then rose up Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua the son of Jozadak, and began to build
the house of God which [is] at Jerusalem: and with them [were] the prophets of God (a) helping
them.



(a) Who encouraged them to go forward, and cursed them because they were more careful to build
their own houses, than zealous to build the temple of God.
#BCV:Ezra 5:4
<h3><verse=Ezra 5:4>Ezra 5:4</verse></h3>




(b) Then said we unto them after this manner, What are the names of the men that make this
building?



(b) That is, the enemies asked this, as in (<bcv=Ezra 5:10>Ezr 5:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezra 5:5
<h3><verse=Ezra 5:5>Ezra 5:5</verse></h3>



But the (c) eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, that they could not cause them to
cease, till the matter came to Darius: and then they returned answer by letter concerning this [matter].



(c) His favour and the spirit of strength.
#BCV:Ezra 5:11
<h3><verse=Ezra 5:11>Ezra 5:11</verse></h3>



And thus they returned us answer, saying, We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and
build the house that was builded these many years ago, which a (d) great king of Israel builded and
set up.



(d) That is, Solomon.
#BCV:Ezra 5:13
<h3><verse=Ezra 5:13>Ezra 5:13</verse></h3>



But in the (e) first year of Cyrus the king of Babylon [the same] king Cyrus made a decree to build
this house of God.



(e) Read (<bcv=Ezra 1:1>Ezr 1:1</bcv>,<bcv=Ezra 1:2>2</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezra 5:14
<h3><verse=Ezra 5:14>Ezra 5:14</verse></h3>



And the vessels also of gold and silver of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of
the temple that [was] in Jerusalem, and brought them into the temple of Babylon, those did Cyrus
<page=1008>the king take out of the temple of Babylon, and they were delivered unto [one], whose name [was] (f)
Sheshbazzar, whom he had made governor;

(f) Read (<bcv=Ezra 1:8>Ezr 1:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezra 5:17
<h3><verse=Ezra 5:17>Ezra 5:17</verse></h3>



Now therefore, if [it seem] good to the king, let there be search made in the king's (g) treasure house,
which [is] there at Babylon, whether it be [so], that a decree was made of Cyrus the king to build this
house of God at Jerusalem, and let the king send his pleasure to us concerning this matter.



(g) Meaning in the library or places where lay the register or record of times.

<h2>Ezra 6</h2>

#BCV:Ezra 6:2
<h3><verse=Ezra 6:2>Ezra 6:2</verse></h3>

<page=1009>And there was found at (a) Achmetha, in the palace that [is] in the province of the Medes, a roll, and
therein [was] a record thus written:



(a) In which were the acts of the kings of the Medes and Persians.
#BCV:Ezra 6:5
<h3><verse=Ezra 6:5>Ezra 6:5</verse></h3>



And also let the golden and silver vessels of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took forth
out of the temple which [is] at Jerusalem, and brought unto Babylon, be restored, and (b) brought
again unto the temple which [is] at Jerusalem, [every one] to his place, and place [them] in the house
of God.



(b) Meaning Zerubbabel to whom he gives charge.
#BCV:Ezra 6:6
<h3><verse=Ezra 6:6>Ezra 6:6</verse></h3>



Now [therefore], Tatnai, governor beyond the river, Shetharboznai, and your companions the
Apharsachites, which [are] beyond the river, be ye far (c) from thence:



(c) Meddle not with them neither hinder them.
#BCV:Ezra 6:8
<h3><verse=Ezra 6:8>Ezra 6:8</verse></h3>



Moreover I make a decree what ye shall do to the elders of these Jews for the building of this house
of God: that of the king's goods, [even] of the tribute beyond the river, forthwith expenses be given
unto these men, that they be (d) not hindered.



(d) For lack of money.
#BCV:Ezra 6:12
<h3><verse=Ezra 6:12>Ezra 6:12</verse></h3>



And the God that hath caused his name (e) to dwell there destroy all kings and people, that shall put
to their hand to alter [and] to destroy this house of God which [is] at Jerusalem. I Darius have made
a decree; let it be done with speed.



(e) Who has appointed that place to have his Name called on there.
#BCV:Ezra 6:14
<h3><verse=Ezra 6:14>Ezra 6:14</verse></h3>

<page=1010>And the elders of the Jews builded, and they prospered through the prophesying of (f) Haggai the
prophet and Zechariah the son of Iddo. And they builded, and finished [it], according to the
commandment of the God of Israel, and according to the commandment of Cyrus, and Darius, and
Artaxerxes king of Persia.



(f) Whom God stirs up to assure them that he would give their work good success.
#BCV:Ezra 6:15
<h3><verse=Ezra 6:15>Ezra 6:15</verse></h3>

And this house was finished on the third day of the month (g) Adar, which was in (h) the sixth year
of the reign of Darius the king.

(g) This is the twelfth month and contains part of February and part of March.

(h) The 42nd year after their first return.

#BCV:Ezra 6:21
<h3><verse=Ezra 6:21>Ezra 6:21</verse></h3>

And the children of Israel, which were come again out of captivity, and all such as had (i) separated
themselves unto them from the filthiness of the heathen of the land, to seek the LORD God of
Israel, did eat,

(i) Who were of the heathen and forsook their idolatry to worship the true God.

#BCV:Ezra 6:22
<h3><verse=Ezra 6:22>Ezra 6:22</verse></h3>

And kept the feast of unleavened bread seven days with joy: for the LORD had made them joyful,
and turned the heart of the king of (k) Assyria unto them, to strengthen their hands in the work of
the house of God, the God of Israel.

(k) Meaning Darius who was king of the Medes, Persians and Assyrians.

<h2>Ezra 7</h2>

#BCV:Ezra 7:1
<h3><verse=Ezra 7:1>Ezra 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=1011>Now after these things, in the reign of (a) Artaxerxes king of Persia, Ezra the son of Seraiah, the
son of Azariah, the son of Hilkiah,

(a) The Hebrews write that many of the kings of Persia were called by this name, as Pharaoh was a
common name to the kings of Egypt and Caesar to the Romans emperors.
#BCV:Ezra 7:5
<h3><verse=Ezra 7:5>Ezra 7:5</verse></h3>

The son of Abishua, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of (b) Aaron the chief priest:

(b) Ezra traces his family till he comes to Aaron, to prove that he came from him.

#BCV:Ezra 7:6
<h3><verse=Ezra 7:6>Ezra 7:6</verse></h3>

This Ezra went up from Babylon; and he [was] a ready (c) scribe in the law of Moses, which the
LORD God of Israel had given: and the king granted him all his request, according to the hand of
the LORD his God upon him.

(c) He shows here what a scribe is, who had charge to write the law and to expound it. Whom Mark
calls a scribe, (<bcv=Mar 12:28>Mar 12:28</bcv>), Matthew and Luke called a lawyer or doctor of the law, (<bcv=Mat 22:35>Mat 22:35</bcv>; <bcv=Luk 10:25>Luk 10:25).</bcv>

#BCV:Ezra 7:8
<h3><verse=Ezra 7:8>Ezra 7:8</verse></h3>

And he came to Jerusalem in the (d) fifth month, which [was] in the seventh year (e) of the king.

(d) That contained part of July and part of August.

(e) Of king Darius.

#BCV:Ezra 7:12
<h3><verse=Ezra 7:12>Ezra 7:12</verse></h3>

Artaxerxes, king of kings, unto Ezra the priest, a scribe of the law of the God of heaven, perfect
[peace], and (f) at such a time.

(f) Some take this for the name of a people, some for time or continuance, meaning that the king
wished him long life.

#BCV:Ezra 7:13
<h3><verse=Ezra 7:13>Ezra 7:13</verse></h3>

<page=1012>I make a decree, that all they of the people of Israel, and [of] his priests and Levites, in my realm,
which are minded of their own freewill (g) to go up to Jerusalem, go with thee.



(g) Who still remained in Babylon and had not returned with Zerubbabel.
#BCV:Ezra 7:14
<h3><verse=Ezra 7:14>Ezra 7:14</verse></h3>



Forasmuch as thou art sent of the king, and of his seven counsellors, to (h) enquire concerning
Judah and Jerusalem, according to the law of thy God which [is] in (i) thine hand;



(h) To examine who lived according to the law.



(i) Of which you are an expert.
#BCV:Ezra 7:18
<h3><verse=Ezra 7:18>Ezra 7:18</verse></h3>



And whatsoever shall seem good to thee, and to thy brethren, to do with the rest of the silver and
the gold, that do after the will of your (k) God.



(k) As you know best may serve to God's glory.
#BCV:Ezra 7:21
<h3><verse=Ezra 7:21>Ezra 7:21</verse></h3>



And I, [even] I Artaxerxes the king, do make a decree to all the treasurers which [are] beyond (l) the
river, that whatsoever Ezra the priest, the scribe of the law of the God of heaven, shall require of
you, it be done speedily,



(l) Which was the Euphrates river and they were beyond it in respect to Babylon.
#BCV:Ezra 7:22
<h3><verse=Ezra 7:22>Ezra 7:22</verse></h3>



Unto an hundred talents of silver, and to an hundred measures of wheat, and to an hundred baths
of wine, and to an hundred (m) baths of oil, and salt without prescribing [how much].



(m) Read (<bcv=1Kings 7:26>Kg1 7:26</bcv>; <bcv=2Ch 2:10>Ch2 2:10</bcv>).

#BCV:Ezra 7:23
<h3><verse=Ezra 7:23>Ezra 7:23</verse></h3>



Whatsoever is commanded by the God of heaven, let it be diligently done for the house of the God
of heaven: for why should there be wrath (n) against the realm of the king and his sons?



(n) This declares that the fear of God's judgment causes him to use this liberality, and not the love
that he bore for God's glory or affection for his people.
#BCV:Ezra 7:25
<h3><verse=Ezra 7:25>Ezra 7:25</verse></h3>

#BCV:ezr 7:25
<h3><verse=ezr 7:25>ezr 7:25</verse></h3>



which may judge all the people that [are] beyond the river, all such as know the laws of thy God; and
teach ye them that know [them] not.



(o) He gave Ezra full authority to restore all things according to the word of God, and to punish
them who resisted and would not obey.
#BCV:Ezra 7:27
<h3><verse=Ezra 7:27>Ezra 7:27</verse></h3>




(p) Blessed [be] the LORD God of our fathers, which hath put [such a thing] as this in the king's
heart, to beautify the house of the LORD which [is] in Jerusalem:



(p) Thus Ezra gave thanks to God for giving him success in his business with the king.

<h2>Ezra 8</h2>

#BCV:Ezra 8:1
<h3><verse=Ezra 8:1>Ezra 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=1014>These [are] now the chief of their fathers, and [this is] the genealogy of them that went up with me
from Babylon, in the reign of (a) Artaxerxes the king.



(a) Read (Ezr. 7:1-28).
#BCV:Ezra 8:13
<h3><verse=Ezra 8:13>Ezra 8:13</verse></h3>



And of the (b) last sons of Adonikam, whose names [are] these, Eliphelet, Jeiel, and Shemaiah, and
with them threescore males.



(b) That came to go with Ezra.
#BCV:Ezra 8:15
<h3><verse=Ezra 8:15>Ezra 8:15</verse></h3>



And I gathered them together to the (c) river that runneth to Ahava; and there abode we in tents
three days: and I viewed the people, and the priests, and found there none of the sons of Levi.



(c) To that place of Euphrates, where the Ahava river enters it.
#BCV:Ezra 8:17
<h3><verse=Ezra 8:17>Ezra 8:17</verse></h3>



And I sent them with commandment unto Iddo the (d) chief at the place Casiphia, and I told them
what they should say unto Iddo, [and] to his brethren the Nethinims, at the place Casiphia, that they
should bring unto us ministers for the house of our God.



(d) He was the chief teacher of the law to the Levites.
#BCV:Ezra 8:21
<h3><verse=Ezra 8:21>Ezra 8:21</verse></h3>



Then I proclaimed a fast there, at the river of Ahava, that we might afflict (f) ourselves before our
God, to seek of him a right way for us, and for our little ones, and for all our substance.



(f) He shows that the purpose of fasting is to humble the body to the spirit, which must proceed
from the heart that is touched, or else it is hypocrisy.
#BCV:Ezra 8:22
<h3><verse=Ezra 8:22>Ezra 8:22</verse></h3>



For I was (g) ashamed to require of the king a band of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the
enemy in the way: because we had spoken unto the king, saying, The hand of our God [is] upon all
them for good that seek him; but his power and his wrath [is] against all them that forsake him.

<page=1015>(g) He thought it better to commit himself to the protection of God, than by seeking these ordinary
means to give others a reason to think that he doubted God's power.
#BCV:Ezra 8:26
<h3><verse=Ezra 8:26>Ezra 8:26</verse></h3>



I even weighed unto their hand six hundred and fifty (h) talents of silver, and silver vessels an
hundred talents, [and] of gold an hundred talents;



(h) Read (<bcv=I Ki 9:14>Kg1 9:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezra 8:27
<h3><verse=Ezra 8:27>Ezra 8:27</verse></h3>



Also twenty basons of gold, of a thousand (i) drams; and two vessels of fine copper, precious as
gold.



(i) Read (<bcv=Ezra 2:69>Ezr 2:69</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezra 8:31
<h3><verse=Ezra 8:31>Ezra 8:31</verse></h3>



Then we departed from the river of Ahava on the twelfth [day] of the first month, to go unto
Jerusalem: and the hand of our God was upon us, and he delivered us from the hand of the enemy,
and of such as lay in (k) wait by the way.



(k) This declared that their journey was full of danger and yet God delivered them according to their

<h1>prayer.</h1>

#BCV:Ezra 8:33
<h3><verse=Ezra 8:33>Ezra 8:33</verse></h3>



Now on the fourth day was the silver and the gold and the vessels weighed in the house of our God
by the hand of Meremoth the son of Uriah the priest; and with him [was] Eleazar the son of
Phinehas; and with them [was] Jozabad the son of Jeshua, and Noadiah the son of Binnui, (l)
Levites;



(l) This was a token of a good conscience and of his integrity that he would have witnesses of his
fidelity.

<h2>Ezra 9</h2>

#BCV:Ezra 9:1
<h3><verse=Ezra 9:1>Ezra 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=1016>Now when these things were done, the princes came to me, saying, The people of Israel, and the
priests, and the Levites, have not (a) separated themselves from the people of the lands, [doing]
according to their abominations, [even] of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Jebusites,
the Ammonites, the Moabites, the Egyptians, and the Amorites.



(a) From the time they came home under Zerubbabel until the coming of Ezra, they had
degenerated contrary to the law of God, and married where it was not lawful, (<bcv=Deu 7:3>Deu 7:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezra 9:2
<h3><verse=Ezra 9:2>Ezra 9:2</verse></h3>



For they have taken of their daughters for themselves, and for their sons: so that the holy seed have
mingled themselves with the people of [those] lands: yea, the hand of the (b) princes and rulers hath
been chief in this trespass.



(b) That is, the governors are the chief beginners of it.
#BCV:Ezra 9:3
<h3><verse=Ezra 9:3>Ezra 9:3</verse></h3>



And when I heard this thing, I rent my garment and my mantle, and plucked off the hair of my
head and of my beard, and sat down (c) astonied.



(c) As one doubting whether God would continue his benefits toward us, or else destroy what he
had begun.
#BCV:Ezra 9:6
<h3><verse=Ezra 9:6>Ezra 9:6</verse></h3>



And said, O my God, I am ashamed and blush to lift up my face to thee, my God: for our iniquities
are increased (d) over [our] head, and our trespass is grown up unto the (e) heavens.



(d) That is, we are drowned in sin.



(e) They so exceed that they cannot grow greater.
#BCV:Ezra 9:8
<h3><verse=Ezra 9:8>Ezra 9:8</verse></h3>



And now for a little space grace hath been [shewed] from the LORD our God, to leave us a remnant
to escape, and to give us a (f) nail in his holy place, that our God may lighten our eyes, and give us a
little reviving in our bondage.

<page=1017>(f) In giving us a resting place it is a comparison taken from them that still remain in a place who
strike nails to hang things on, (<bcv=Isa 22:23>Isa 22:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezra 9:13
<h3><verse=Ezra 9:13>Ezra 9:13</verse></h3>



And after all that is come upon us for our evil deeds, and for our great trespass, seeing that thou our
God hast punished us less than our (g) iniquities [deserve], and hast given us [such] deliverance as
this;



(g) Has not utterly cast us down and destroyed us for our sins, (<bcv=Deu 28:13>Deu 28:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezra 9:15
<h3><verse=Ezra 9:15>Ezra 9:15</verse></h3>



O LORD God of Israel, thou [art] righteous: for we (h) remain yet escaped, as [it is] this day: behold,
we [are] before thee in our trespasses: for we cannot stand before thee because of this.



(h) He shows that God is just in punishing his people, and yet merciful in preserving a residue in
whom he shows favour.

<h2>Ezra 10</h2>

#BCV:Ezra 10:1
<h3><verse=Ezra 10:1>Ezra 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=1018>Now when Ezra had prayed, and when he had (a) confessed, weeping and casting himself down
before the house of God, there assembled unto him out of Israel a very great congregation of men
and women and children: for the people wept very sore.



(a) He confessed his sins, and the sins of the people.
#BCV:Ezra 10:2
<h3><verse=Ezra 10:2>Ezra 10:2</verse></h3>



And Shechaniah the son of Jehiel, [one] of the sons of Elam, answered and said unto Ezra, We have
trespassed against our God, and have taken strange wives of the people of the land: yet now there is



(b) hope in Israel concerning this thing.



(b) Meaning, that God would receive them in mercy.
#BCV:Ezra 10:3
<h3><verse=Ezra 10:3>Ezra 10:3</verse></h3>



Now therefore let us make a covenant with our God to put away (c) all the wives, and such as are
born of them, according to the counsel of my lord, and of those that tremble at the commandment
of our God; and let it be done according to the law.



(c) Who are strangers and married contrary to the law of God.
#BCV:Ezra 10:4
<h3><verse=Ezra 10:4>Ezra 10:4</verse></h3>



Arise; for [this] matter (d) [belongeth] unto thee: we also [will be] with thee: be of good courage, and
do [it].



(d) Because God has given you authority and learning to persuade the people in this and to
command them.
#BCV:Ezra 10:9
<h3><verse=Ezra 10:9>Ezra 10:9</verse></h3>



Then all the men of Judah and Benjamin gathered themselves together unto Jerusalem within three
days. It [was] the (e) ninth month, on the twentieth [day] of the month; and all the people sat in the
street of the house of God, trembling because of [this] matter, and for the great (f) rain.



(e) Which contained part of November and part of December.



(f) For the season was given to rain and so the weather was more sharp and cold and also their
conscience touched them.
#BCV:Ezra 10:10
<h3><verse=Ezra 10:10>Ezra 10:10</verse></h3>

<page=1019>And Ezra the priest stood up, and said unto them, Ye have transgressed, and have taken strange
wives, to (g) increase the trespass of Israel.



(g) You have laid one sin on another.
#BCV:Ezra 10:11
<h3><verse=Ezra 10:11>Ezra 10:11</verse></h3>



Now therefore (h) make confession unto the LORD God of your fathers, and do his pleasure: and
separate yourselves from the people of the land, and from the strange wives.



(h) Read (<bcv=Jos 7:19>Jos 7:19</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezra 10:14
<h3><verse=Ezra 10:14>Ezra 10:14</verse></h3>



Let now our rulers of all the congregation stand, (i) and let all them which have taken strange wives
in our cities come at appointed times, and with them the elders of every city, and the judges thereof,
until the fierce wrath of our God for this matter be turned from us.



(i) Let them be appointed to examine this matter.
#BCV:Ezra 10:16
<h3><verse=Ezra 10:16>Ezra 10:16</verse></h3>



And the children of the captivity did so. And Ezra the priest, [with] certain chief of the fathers, after
the house of their fathers, and all of them by [their] names, (k) were separated, and sat down in the
first day of the tenth month to examine the matter.



(k) They went to the chief cities to sit on this matter which took three months to finish.
#BCV:Ezra 10:19
<h3><verse=Ezra 10:19>Ezra 10:19</verse></h3>



And they gave (l) their hands that they would put away their wives; and [being] guilty, [they offered] a
ram of the flock for their trespass.



(l) As a token that they would keep their promise and do it.
#BCV:Ezra 10:25
<h3><verse=Ezra 10:25>Ezra 10:25</verse></h3>



Moreover of (m) Israel: of the sons of Parosh; Ramiah, and Jeziah, and Malchiah, and Miamin, and
Eleazar, and Malchijah, and Benaiah.



(m) Meaning of the common people: for before he spoke of the priests and Levites.
#BCV:Ezra 10:44
<h3><verse=Ezra 10:44>Ezra 10:44</verse></h3>

<page=1020>All these had taken strange wives: and [some] of them had wives by whom they had (n) children.



(n) Who also were made illegitimate because the marriage was unlawful.

<h1>Nehemiah</h1>


<h2>Nehemiah 1</h2>

#BCV:Nehemiah 1:1
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 1:1>Nehemiah 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=1021>The words of Nehemiah the son of Hachaliah. And it came to pass in the month (a) Chisleu, in the
twentieth year, as I was in Shushan the palace,



The Argument - God, in all ages and at all times, sets up worthy persons for the convenience and
profit of his Church, as now within the compass of seventy years he raised up various excellent men
for the preservation of his people after their return from Babylon. Zerubbabel, Ezra, and Nehemiah,
of which the first was their captain to bring them home, and provided that the temple was built: the
second reformed their manners and planted religion: and the third built up the walls, delivered the
people from oppression and provided that the law of God was carried out among them. He was a
godly man, and in great authority with the king, so that the king favoured him greatly and gave him
letters to accomplish all the things he desired. This book is also called the second of Ezra by the
Latins because he was the author of it.



(a) Which contains part of November and part of December, and was their ninth month.
#BCV:Nehemiah 1:2
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 1:2>Nehemiah 1:2</verse></h3>



That Hanani, one of my (b) brethren, came, he and [certain] men of Judah; and I asked them
concerning the Jews that had escaped, which were left of the captivity, and concerning Jerusalem.



(b) A Jew as I was.
#BCV:Nehemiah 1:3
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 1:3>Nehemiah 1:3</verse></h3>



And they said unto me, The remnant that are left of the captivity there in the (c) province [are] in
great affliction and reproach: the wall of Jerusalem also [is] broken down, and the gates thereof are
burned with fire.



(c) Meaning in Judea.
#BCV:Nehemiah 1:11
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 1:11>Nehemiah 1:11</verse></h3>



O Lord, I beseech thee, let now thine ear be attentive to the prayer of thy servant, and to the prayer
of thy servants, who desire to (d) fear thy name: and prosper, I pray thee, thy servant this day, and
grant him mercy in the sight of (e) this man. For I was the king's cupbearer.



(d) That is, to worship you.

<page=1022>(e) That is, the king Artaxerxes.

<h2>Nehemiah 2</h2>

#BCV:Nehemiah 2:1
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 2:1>Nehemiah 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=1023>And it came to pass in the month (a) Nisan, in the twentieth year of (b) Artaxerxes the king, [that]
wine [was] before him: and I took up the wine, and gave [it] unto the king. Now I had not been
[beforetime] sad in his presence.



(a) Which was the first month of the year, and contains part of March and part of April.



(b) Who is also called Darius, (<bcv=Ezra 7:1>Ezr 7:1</bcv>) and was the son of Hystaspis.
#BCV:Nehemiah 2:4
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 2:4>Nehemiah 2:4</verse></h3>



Then the king said unto me, For what dost thou make request? So I prayed (e) to the God of heaven.



(e) I desired God in my heart to prosper my enterprise.
#BCV:Nehemiah 2:8
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 2:8>Nehemiah 2:8</verse></h3>



And a letter unto Asaph the keeper of the king's forest, that he may give me timber to make beams
for the gates of the palace which [appertained] to the house, and for the wall of the city, and for the
house that I shall enter into. And the king granted me, according to (d) the good hand of my God
upon me.



(d) As God moved me to ask, and as he gave me success in it.
#BCV:Nehemiah 2:10
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 2:10>Nehemiah 2:10</verse></h3>



When (e) Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, heard [of it], it grieved
them exceedingly that there was come a man to seek the welfare of the children of Israel.



(e) These were great enemies to the Jews, and laboured always both by force and subtilty to
overcome them and Tobiah, because his wife was a Jewess, knew of their affairs and so brought
them great trouble.
#BCV:Nehemiah 2:17
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 2:17>Nehemiah 2:17</verse></h3>



Then said I unto them, Ye see the distress that we [are] in, how Jerusalem [lieth] waste, and the gates
thereof are burned with fire: come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more (f)
a reproach.



(f) That is, contemned by other nations as though God had forsaken us.
#BCV:Nehemiah 2:18
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 2:18>Nehemiah 2:18</verse></h3>

#BCV:neh 2:18
<h3><verse=neh 2:18>neh 2:18</verse></h3>



had spoken unto me. And they said, Let us rise up and build. So they (g) strengthened their hands
for [this] good [work].



(g) They were encouraged and gave themselves to do well, and to travel in this worthy enterprise.
#BCV:Nehemiah 2:19
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 2:19>Nehemiah 2:19</verse></h3>



But when Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant, the Ammonite, and (h) Geshem the
Arabian, heard [it], they laughed us to scorn, and despised us, and said, What [is] this thing that ye
do? will ye (i) rebel against the king?



(h) These were three chief governors under the king of Persia beyond the Euphrates.



(i) Thus the wicked when they will burden the children of God, always lay treason to their charge
both because it makes them most odious to the world, and also stirs the hatred of princes against
them.
#BCV:Nehemiah 2:20
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 2:20>Nehemiah 2:20</verse></h3>



Then answered I them, and said unto them, The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his
servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor (k) memorial, in Jerusalem.



(k) Neither are you of the number of the children of God (to whom he has appointed this city only)
neither did any of your predecessors ever fear God.

<h2>Nehemiah 3</h2>

#BCV:Nehemiah 3:1
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 3:1>Nehemiah 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=1025>Then Eliashib the high priest rose up with his brethren the priests, and they builded the sheep gate;
they (a) sanctified it, and set up the doors of it; even unto the tower of Meah they sanctified it, unto
the tower of Hananeel.



(a) In Hebrew they sanctified it, that is, they finished it, and so dedicated it to the Lord by prayer, in
desiring him to maintain it.
#BCV:Nehemiah 3:5
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 3:5>Nehemiah 3:5</verse></h3>



And next unto them the Tekoites repaired; but their nobles (b) put not their necks to the work of
their Lord.



(b) The rich and mighty would not obey those who were appointed officers in this work, neither
would they help them.
#BCV:Nehemiah 3:7
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 3:7>Nehemiah 3:7</verse></h3>



And next unto them repaired Melatiah the Gibeonite, and Jadon the Meronothite, the men of
Gibeon, and of Mizpah, unto the (c) throne of the governor on this side the river.



(c) To the place where the Duke was wont to sit in judgment, who governed the country in their
absence.
#BCV:Nehemiah 3:19
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 3:19>Nehemiah 3:19</verse></h3>



And next to him repaired Ezer the son of Jeshua, the ruler of Mizpah, another piece over against
the going up to the armoury at the (d) turning [of the wall].



(d) Where the weapons and armour of the city lay.
#BCV:Nehemiah 3:22
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 3:22>Nehemiah 3:22</verse></h3>



And after him repaired the priests, the men of (e) the plain.



(e) Who dwelt in the plain country by Jordan and Jericho.
#BCV:Nehemiah 3:26
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 3:26>Nehemiah 3:26</verse></h3>



Moreover the (f) Nethinims dwelt in Ophel, unto [the place] over against the water gate toward the
east, and the tower that lieth out.

<page=1026>(f) Read (Ezr 2:43).
#BCV:Nehemiah 3:30
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 3:30>Nehemiah 3:30</verse></h3>



After him repaired Hananiah the son of Shelemiah, and Hanun the (g) sixth son of Zalaph, another
piece. After him repaired Meshullam the son of Berechiah over against his chamber.



(g) Meaning the sixth of his sons.
#BCV:Nehemiah 3:31
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 3:31>Nehemiah 3:31</verse></h3>



After him repaired Malchiah the goldsmith's son unto the place of the Nethinims, and of the
merchants, over against the gate (h) Miphkad, and to the going up of the corner.



(h) Which was the place of judgment or execution.

<h2>Nehemiah 4</h2>

#BCV:Nehemiah 4:2
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 4:2>Nehemiah 4:2</verse></h3>

<page=1027>And he spake before his (a) brethren and the army of Samaria, and said, What do these (b) feeble
Jews? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice? will they make an end in a day? will they revive
the stones out of the heaps of the rubbish which are burned?



(a) Of his companions who dwelt in Samaria.



(b) Thus the wicked who do not consider that God's power is always ready to defend his, mock
them as thought they were weak and feeble.
#BCV:Nehemiah 4:4
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 4:4>Nehemiah 4:4</verse></h3>




(c) Hear, O our God; for we are despised: and turn their reproach upon their own head, and give
them for a prey (d) in the land of captivity:



(c) This is the remedy that the children of God have against the derision and threatenings of their
enemies, to flee to God by prayer.



(d) Let them be spoiled and led away captive.
#BCV:Nehemiah 4:5
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 4:5>Nehemiah 4:5</verse></h3>



And cover not their (e) iniquity, and let not their sin be blotted out from before thee: for they have
provoked [thee] to anger before the builders.



(e) Let the plagues declare to the world that they set themselves against you and your Church: that
he prays only having respect for God's glory and not for any private affection, or grudge.
#BCV:Nehemiah 4:12
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 4:12>Nehemiah 4:12</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, that when the Jews which dwelt by them came, they said unto us (f) ten times,



(g) From all places whence ye shall return unto us [they will be upon you].



(f) That is, often.



(g) They who brought the tidings said this, when you leave your work, and go either to eat or to rest,
your enemies will assail you.
#BCV:Nehemiah 4:14
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 4:14>Nehemiah 4:14</verse></h3>

<page=1028>And I looked, and rose up, and said unto the nobles, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people,
Be not ye afraid of them: (h) remember the Lord, [which is] great and terrible, and fight for your
brethren, your sons, and your daughters, your wives, and your houses.



(h) Who is always on hand to deliver his out of danger: and therefore seeing they should fight for
the maintenance of God's glory, and for the preservation of their own lives and of theirs, he
encourages them to play the valiant men.
#BCV:Nehemiah 4:16
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 4:16>Nehemiah 4:16</verse></h3>



And it came to pass from that time forth, [that] the half of my servants wrought in the work, and
the other half of them held both the spears, the shields, and the bows, and the habergeons; and the
rulers [were] (i) behind all the house of Judah.



(i) To overcome them and encourage them in their work.
#BCV:Nehemiah 4:20
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 4:20>Nehemiah 4:20</verse></h3>



In what place [therefore] ye hear the sound of the trumpet, (k) resort ye thither unto us: our God
shall fight for us.



(k) Meaning, to resist their enemies, if need be.
#BCV:Nehemiah 4:23
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 4:23>Nehemiah 4:23</verse></h3>



So neither I, nor my brethren, nor my servants, nor the men of the guard which followed me, none
of us put off our clothes, [saving that] every one put them off (l) for washing.



(l) That is, when they purified themselves or else when they washed their clothes.

<h2>Nehemiah 5</h2>

#BCV:Nehemiah 5:1
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 5:1>Nehemiah 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=1029>And there was a great cry of the people and of their wives (a) against their brethren the Jews.


(a) Against the rich who oppressed them.
#BCV:Nehemiah 5:2
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 5:2>Nehemiah 5:2</verse></h3>



For there were that said, We, our sons, and our daughters, [are] many: therefore we take up (b) corn
[for them], that we may eat, and live.



(b) This is the complaint of the people, showing the extremity they were brought to.
#BCV:Nehemiah 5:4
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 5:4>Nehemiah 5:4</verse></h3>



There were also that said, We have borrowed money for the king's (c) tribute, [and that upon] our
lands and vineyards.



(c) To pay our tribute to the king of the Persians, which was exacted yearly from us.
#BCV:Nehemiah 5:5
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 5:5>Nehemiah 5:5</verse></h3>



Yet now our flesh [is] as (d) the flesh of our brethren, our children as their children: and, lo, we
bring into bondage our sons and our daughters to be servants, and [some] of our daughters are
brought unto bondage [already]: neither [is it] in our power (e) [to redeem them]; for other men have
our lands and vineyards.



(d) By nature the rich are no better than the poor.



(e) We are not able to redeem them, but out of poverty are forced to sell them to others.
#BCV:Nehemiah 5:7
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 5:7>Nehemiah 5:7</verse></h3>



Then I consulted with myself, and I rebuked the nobles, and the rulers, and said unto them, Ye (f)
exact usury, every one of his brother. And I set a great (g) assembly against them.



(f) You press them with usury, and seek to bring all thing into your hands.



(g) Both because they should be moved with pity seeing how many were oppressed by them, and
also hear the judgment of others, who should be witnesses of their dealings with their brethren.
#BCV:Nehemiah 5:8
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 5:8>Nehemiah 5:8</verse></h3>

<page=1030>And I said unto them, We after our ability have redeemed our brethren the Jews, which were sold
unto the heathen; and will ye even sell your brethren? or shall they be (h) sold unto us? Then held
they their peace, and found nothing [to answer].



(h) Seeing God has once delivered them from the bondage of the heathen, shall we make them our
slaves?
#BCV:Nehemiah 5:9
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 5:9>Nehemiah 5:9</verse></h3>




(i) Also I said, It [is] not good that ye do: ought ye not to walk in the fear of our God because of the



(k) reproach of the heathen our enemies?



(i) Meaning, Nehemiah.



(k) Who by this occasion will blaspheme the Name of God, seeing that our actions are no better
than theirs.
#BCV:Nehemiah 5:11
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 5:11>Nehemiah 5:11</verse></h3>



Restore, I pray you, to them, even this day, their lands, their vineyards, their oliveyards, and their
houses, also the hundredth [part] of the money, and of the corn, the wine, and the oil, (l) that ye
exact of them.



(l) Which you take from them for the loan.
#BCV:Nehemiah 5:14
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 5:14>Nehemiah 5:14</verse></h3>



Moreover from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the
twentieth year even unto the two and thirtieth year of Artaxerxes the king, [that is], twelve years, I
and my brethren have not eaten the (m) bread of the governor.



(m) I did not receive the portion and diet which the governors who were before me exacted, in
which he declares that he rather sought the wealth of the people than his own convenience.
#BCV:Nehemiah 5:18
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 5:18>Nehemiah 5:18</verse></h3>



Now [that] which was prepared [for me] daily [was] one ox [and] six choice sheep; also fowls were
prepared for me, and once in ten days store of (n) all sorts of wine: yet for all this required not I the
bread of the governor, because the bondage was heavy upon this people.



(n) While at other times they had by measure, at this time they had most liberally.

<h2>Nehemiah 6</h2>

#BCV:Nehemiah 6:1
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 6:1>Nehemiah 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=1031>Now it came to pass, when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and Geshem the Arabian, and the rest of our
enemies, heard that I had builded the wall, and [that] there was no (a) breach left therein; (though at
that time I had not set up the doors upon the gates;)



(a) That is, that they were joined together, as in (<bcv=Neh 4:6>Neh 4:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Nehemiah 6:3
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 6:3>Nehemiah 6:3</verse></h3>



And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I [am] doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: (b)
why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you?



(b) Meaning, that if he obeyed their request, the work God had appointed would cease: showing by
this that we should not commit ourselves to the hands of the wicked.
#BCV:Nehemiah 6:6
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 6:6>Nehemiah 6:6</verse></h3>



Wherein [was] written, It is reported among the heathen, and Gashmu saith [it, that] thou and the
Jews think to rebel: for which cause thou buildest the wall, that thou mayest be their king, according
to these (c) words.



(c) As the same goes.
#BCV:Nehemiah 6:7
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 6:7>Nehemiah 6:7</verse></h3>



And thou hast also appointed (d) prophets to preach of thee at Jerusalem, saying, [There is] a king in
Judah: and now shall it be reported to the king according to these words. Come now therefore, and
let us take counsel together.



(d) You have bribed and set up false prophets, to make yourself king, and so to defraud the king of
Persia of that subjection which you owe to him.
#BCV:Nehemiah 6:10
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 6:10>Nehemiah 6:10</verse></h3>



Afterward I came unto the house of Shemaiah the son of Delaiah the son of Mehetabeel, who [was]



(e) shut up; and he said, Let us meet together in the house of God, within the temple, and let us
shut the doors of the temple: for they will come to slay thee; yea, in the night will they come to slay
thee.



(e) As though he would be secret, to the intent that he might pray to God with greater liberty, and
receive some revelation, which in him was only hypocrisy.
#BCV:Nehemiah 6:11
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 6:11>Nehemiah 6:11</verse></h3>

<page=1032>And I said, (f) Should such a man as I flee? and who [is there], that, [being] as I [am], would go into
the temple to save his life? I will not go in.



(f) He did not doubt that God was able to preserve him and knew that if he had obeyed this counsel
he would have discouraged all the people: thus God gives power to his to resist false prophecies,
though they seem to have great probability.
#BCV:Nehemiah 6:14
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 6:14>Nehemiah 6:14</verse></h3>



My God, think thou upon Tobiah and Sanballat according to these their works, and on the (g)
prophetess Noadiah, and the rest of the prophets, that would have put me in fear.



(g) Grief caused him to pray against such, who under the pretence of being the ministers of God,
were adversaries to his glory, and went about to overthrow his Church, declaring also by this that
where there is one true minister of God, the devil has many hirelings.
#BCV:Nehemiah 6:15
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 6:15>Nehemiah 6:15</verse></h3>



So the wall was finished in the twenty and fifth [day] of [the month] (h) Elul, in (i) fifty and two days.



(h) Which was the sixth month and contained part of August, and part of September.



(i) After I had sent Sanballat his answer.
#BCV:Nehemiah 6:17
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 6:17>Nehemiah 6:17</verse></h3>



Moreover in those days the nobles of Judah sent many (k) letters unto Tobiah, and [the letters] of
Tobiah came unto them.



(k) Thus the Church of God always has enemies within itself, which is more dangerous than
outward and professed enemies.

<h2>Nehemiah 7</h2>

#BCV:Nehemiah 7:3
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 7:3>Nehemiah 7:3</verse></h3>

<page=1033>And I said unto them, Let not the gates of Jerusalem be opened until the sun be hot; and while (a)
they stand by, let them shut the doors, and bar [them]: and appoint watches of the inhabitants of
Jerusalem, every one in his watch, and every one [to be] over against his house.



(a) That is, they who are mentioned, (<bcv=Neh 7:2>Neh 7:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Nehemiah 7:6
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 7:6>Nehemiah 7:6</verse></h3>



These [are] the (b) children of the province, that went up out of the captivity, of those that had
been carried away, whom Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon had carried away, and came again to
Jerusalem and to Judah, every one unto his city;



(b) That is, the inhabitants of Judah.
#BCV:Nehemiah 7:7
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 7:7>Nehemiah 7:7</verse></h3>



Who came with Zerubbabel, Jeshua, Nehemiah, (c) Azariah, Raamiah, Nahamani, Mordecai, Bilshan,
Mispereth, Bigvai, Nehum, Baanah. The number, [I say], of the men of the people of Israel [was
this];



(c) Azariah in Ezra is called Seraiah, and Raamiah Reelaiah (<bcv=Ezra 2:2>Ezr 2:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Nehemiah 7:25
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 7:25>Nehemiah 7:25</verse></h3>



The (d) children of Gibeon, ninety and five.



(d) That is, the inhabitants of Gibeon.
#BCV:Nehemiah 7:33
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 7:33>Nehemiah 7:33</verse></h3>



The men (e) of the other Nebo, fifty and two.



(e) For there were two cities with this name.
#BCV:Nehemiah 7:46
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 7:46>Nehemiah 7:46</verse></h3>



The (f) Nethinims: the children of Ziha, the children of Hashupha, the children of Tabbaoth,



(f) Read (<bcv=Ezra 2:43>Ezr 2:43</bcv>).
#BCV:Nehemiah 7:65
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 7:65>Nehemiah 7:65</verse></h3>

#BCV:neh 7:65
<h3><verse=neh 7:65>neh 7:65</verse></h3>



stood [up] a priest with Urim and Thummim.



(g) Meaning, Nehemiah: for Tirshatha in the Chaldee tongue means a butler.
#BCV:Nehemiah 7:70
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 7:70>Nehemiah 7:70</verse></h3>



And some of the chief of the fathers gave unto the work. The Tirshatha gave to the treasure a
thousand (h) drams of gold, fifty basons, five hundred and thirty priests' garments.



(h) Read (<bcv=Ezra 2:69>Ezr 2:69</bcv>).
#BCV:Nehemiah 7:73
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 7:73>Nehemiah 7:73</verse></h3>



So the priests, and the Levites, and the porters, and the singers, and [some] of the people, and the
Nethinims, and all Israel, dwelt in their cities; and when the (i) seventh month came, the children of
Israel [were] in their cities.



(i) Which contained part of September and part of October.

<h2>Nehemiah 8</h2>

#BCV:Nehemiah 8:1
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 8:1>Nehemiah 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=1035>And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that [was] before the
water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the (a) scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the
LORD had commanded to Israel.



(a) Read (<bcv=Ezra 7:6>Ezr 7:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Nehemiah 8:2
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 8:2>Nehemiah 8:2</verse></h3>



And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all (b)
that could hear with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh month.



(b) Who had age and discretion to understand.
#BCV:Nehemiah 8:3
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 8:3>Nehemiah 8:3</verse></h3>



And he read therein before the street that [was] before the water gate from the morning until (c)
midday, before the men and the women, and those that could understand; and the ears of all the
people [were attentive] unto the book of the law.



(c) This declares the great zeal that the people had to hear the word of God.
#BCV:Nehemiah 8:5
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 8:5>Nehemiah 8:5</verse></h3>



And Ezra opened the book in the sight of all the people; (for he was (d) above all the people;) and
when he opened it, all the people stood up:



(d) So that his voice might be heard the better.
#BCV:Nehemiah 8:9
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 8:9>Nehemiah 8:9</verse></h3>



And Nehemiah, which [is] the Tirshatha, and Ezra the priest the scribe, and the Levites that taught
the people, said unto all the people, This day [is] holy unto the LORD your God; mourn not, nor
weep. For all the people (e) wept, when they heard the words of the law.



(e) In considering their offences against the Law, therefore the Levites do not reprove them for
mourning, but assure them of God's mercies if they are repentant.
#BCV:Nehemiah 8:10
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 8:10>Nehemiah 8:10</verse></h3>

<page=1036>Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them
for whom nothing is (f) prepared: for [this] day [is] holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the



(g) joy of the LORD is your strength.



(f) That is, remember the poor.



(g) Rejoice in the Lord, and he will give you strength.
#BCV:Nehemiah 8:16
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 8:16>Nehemiah 8:16</verse></h3>



So the people went forth, and brought [them], and made themselves booths, every one upon the (h)
roof of his house, and in their courts, and in the courts of the house of God, and in the street of
the water gate, and in the street of the gate of Ephraim.



(h) For their houses were made with flat roofs, read (<bcv=Deu 22:8>Deu 22:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Nehemiah 8:17
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 8:17>Nehemiah 8:17</verse></h3>



And all the congregation of them that were come again out of the captivity made booths, and sat
under the booths: for since the (i) days of Jeshua the son of Nun unto that day had not the children
of Israel done so. And there was very great gladness.



(i) Which was almost a thousand years.

<h2>Nehemiah 9</h2>

#BCV:Nehemiah 9:1
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 9:1>Nehemiah 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=1037>Now in the twenty and fourth day of this (a) month the children of Israel were assembled with
fasting, and with sackclothes, and earth upon them.



(a) Meaning, the seventh.
#BCV:Nehemiah 9:3
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 9:3>Nehemiah 9:3</verse></h3>



And they stood up in their place, and read in the book of the law of the LORD their God [one]
fourth part of the day; and [another] fourth part they (b) confessed, and worshipped the LORD
their God.



(b) They confessed their sins, and used prayers.
#BCV:Nehemiah 9:21
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 9:21>Nehemiah 9:21</verse></h3>



Yea, forty years didst thou sustain them in the wilderness, [so that] they lacked nothing; their clothes
waxed not old, and their feet (c) swelled not.



(c) Though the way was tedious and long.
#BCV:Nehemiah 9:22
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 9:22>Nehemiah 9:22</verse></h3>



Moreover thou gavest them kingdoms and nations, and didst (d) divide them into corners: so they
possessed the land of Sihon, and the land of the king of Heshbon, and the land of Og king of
Bashan.



(d) Meaning, the heathen whom he drove out.
#BCV:Nehemiah 9:26
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 9:26>Nehemiah 9:26</verse></h3>



Nevertheless they were disobedient, and rebelled against thee, and cast thy law behind their backs,
and slew thy prophets which (e) testified against them to turn them to thee, and they wrought great
provocations.



(e) Taking heaven and earth to witness that God would destroy them unless they returned, as in <bcv=2Ch 24:19>Ch2 24:19</bcv>).

#BCV:Nehemiah 9:28
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 9:28>Nehemiah 9:28</verse></h3>

<page=1038>But after they had (f) rest, they did evil again before thee: therefore leftest thou them in the hand of
their enemies, so that they had the dominion over them: yet when they returned, and cried unto thee,
thou heardest [them] from heaven; and many times didst thou deliver them according to thy mercies;

(f) He declares how God's mercies always contended with the wickedness of the people, who always
in their prosperity forgot God.
#BCV:Nehemiah 9:29
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 9:29>Nehemiah 9:29</verse></h3>



And testifiedst against them, that thou mightest bring them again unto thy law: yet they dealt proudly,
and hearkened not unto thy commandments, but sinned against thy judgments, (which if a man do,
he shall live in them;) and (g) withdrew the shoulder, and hardened their neck, and would not (h)
hear.



(g) Which is a sign taken from oxen that shrink at the yoke or burden in (<bcv=Zec 7:11>Zac 7:11</bcv>).



(h) When you admonished them by your prophets.
#BCV:Nehemiah 9:32
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 9:32>Nehemiah 9:32</verse></h3>



Now therefore, our God, the great, the mighty, and the terrible God, who keepest covenant and
mercy, let not all the trouble seem little before thee, that hath come upon us, on our kings, on our
princes, and on our priests, and on our prophets, and on our fathers, and on all thy people, since the
time of the (i) kings of Assyria unto this day.



(i) By whom we were led away into captivity and have been appointed to be slain, as in (<bcv=Esth 3:13>Est 3:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Nehemiah 9:33
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 9:33>Nehemiah 9:33</verse></h3>



Howbeit thou [art] just in all that is brought upon us; for thou hast (k) done right, but we have done
wickedly:



(k) He confesses that all these things came to them justly for their sins, but he appeals from God's
justice to his mercies.
#BCV:Nehemiah 9:34
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 9:34>Nehemiah 9:34</verse></h3>



Neither have our kings, our princes, our priests, nor our fathers, kept thy law, nor hearkened unto thy
commandments and thy testimonies, wherewith thou didst (l) testify against them.



(l) That you would destroy them, unless they would return to you, as in (<bcv=Neh 9:26>Neh 9:26</bcv>).
#BCV:Nehemiah 9:36
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 9:36>Nehemiah 9:36</verse></h3>

<page=1039>Behold, we [are] servants this day, and [for] the land that thou gavest unto our fathers to eat the (m)
fruit thereof and the good thereof, behold, we [are] servants in it:



(m) That is, to be the Lord's.
#BCV:Nehemiah 9:38
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 9:38>Nehemiah 9:38</verse></h3>



And because of all this we make (n) a sure [covenant], and write [it]; and our princes, Levites, [and]
priests, seal [unto it].



(n) Thus by affliction they promise to keep God's commandments to which they could not be
brought by God's great benefits.

<h2>Nehemiah 10</h2>

#BCV:Nehemiah 10:8
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 10:8>Nehemiah 10:8</verse></h3>

<page=1040>Maaziah, Bilgai, Shemaiah: these [were] (a) the priests.



(a) Who subscribed to keep the promise.
#BCV:Nehemiah 10:28
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 10:28>Nehemiah 10:28</verse></h3>



And the rest of the people, the priests, the Levites, the porters, the singers, the (b) Nethinims, and
all they that had (c) separated themselves from the people of the lands unto the law of God, their
wives, their sons, and their daughters, every one having knowledge, and having understanding;



(b) Read (<bcv=Ezra 2:43>Ezr 2:43</bcv>).



(c) Who being idolaters forsook their wickedness and gave themselves to serve God.
#BCV:Nehemiah 10:29
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 10:29>Nehemiah 10:29</verse></h3>



They (d) clave to their brethren, their nobles, and entered into a (e) curse, and into an oath, to walk
in God's law, which was given by Moses the servant of God, and to observe and do all the
commandments of the LORD our Lord, and his judgments and his statutes;



(d) They made the oath in the name of the whole multitude.



(e) To which they gave themselves if they broke the law, (<bcv=Deu 28:15>Deu 28:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Nehemiah 10:31
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 10:31>Nehemiah 10:31</verse></h3>



And [if] the people of the land bring ware or any victuals on the sabbath day to sell, (f) [that] we
would not buy it of them on the sabbath, or on the holy day: and [that] we would leave the seventh
year, and the exaction of every debt.



(f) Which nonetheless they broke soon after, (<bcv=Neh 13:15>Neh 13:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Nehemiah 10:33
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 10:33>Nehemiah 10:33</verse></h3>



For the (g) shewbread, and for the continual meat offering, and for the continual burnt offering, of
the sabbaths, of the new moons, for the set feasts, and for the holy [things], and for the sin offerings
to make an atonement for Israel, and [for] all the work of the house of our God.



(g) This states why they gave this third part of the shekel which was beyond the half shekel that they
were required to pay, (<bcv=Exo 30:13>Exo 30:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Nehemiah 10:36
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 10:36>Nehemiah 10:36</verse></h3>

<page=1041>Also the firstborn of our sons, and of our cattle, as [it is] (h) written in the law, and the firstlings of
our herds and of our flocks, to bring to the house of our God, unto the priests that minister in the
house of our God:



(h) This rehearsal shows that there was no part or ceremony in the Law, to which they did not bind
themselves by covenant.
#BCV:Nehemiah 10:37
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 10:37>Nehemiah 10:37</verse></h3>



And [that] we should bring the firstfruits of our dough, and our offerings, and the fruit of all
manner of trees, of wine and of oil, unto the priests, to the chambers of the house of our God; and
the tithes of our ground unto the Levites, that the same Levites might have the tithes in all the cities
of our (i) tillage.



(i) Wherever we laboured or worked, there the tithes were due to the Lord both by the law, and
according to the oath and covenant that we made.
#BCV:Nehemiah 10:39
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 10:39>Nehemiah 10:39</verse></h3>



For the children of Israel and the children of Levi shall bring the offering of the corn, of the new
wine, and the oil, unto the chambers, where [are] the vessels of the sanctuary, and the priests that
minister, and the porters, and the singers: and (k) we will not forsake the house of our God.



(k) We will not leave it destitute of that which is needed for it.

<h2>Nehemiah 11</h2>

#BCV:Nehemiah 11:1
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 11:1>Nehemiah 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=1042>And the rulers of the people dwelt at Jerusalem: the rest of the people also cast lots, (a) to bring one
of ten to dwell in Jerusalem the holy city, and nine parts [to dwell] in [other] cities.



(a) Because their enemies dwelt round about them, they provided that it might be replenished with
men, and used this policy because there were few who offered themselves willingly.
#BCV:Nehemiah 11:4
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 11:4>Nehemiah 11:4</verse></h3>



And at Jerusalem dwelt [certain] of the children of Judah, and of the children of Benjamin. Of the
children of Judah; Athaiah the son of Uzziah, the son of Zechariah, the son of Amariah, the son of
Shephatiah, the son of Mahalaleel, of the children of (b) Perez;



(b) Which came from Perez the son of Judah.
#BCV:Nehemiah 11:11
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 11:11>Nehemiah 11:11</verse></h3>



Seraiah the son of Hilkiah, the son of Meshullam, the son of Zadok, the son of Meraioth, the son
of Ahitub, (c) [was] the ruler of the house of God.



(c) That is, was the high priest.
#BCV:Nehemiah 11:12
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 11:12>Nehemiah 11:12</verse></h3>



And their brethren (d) that did the work of the house [were] eight hundred twenty and two: and
Adaiah the son of Jeroham, the son of Pelaliah, the son of Amzi, the son of Zechariah, the son of
Pashur, the son of Malchiah,



(d) That served and ministered in the temple.
#BCV:Nehemiah 11:17
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 11:17>Nehemiah 11:17</verse></h3>



And Mattaniah the son of Micha, the son of Zabdi, the son of Asaph, [was] the principal to (e)
begin the thanksgiving in prayer: and Bakbukiah the second among his brethren, and Abda the son
of Shammua, the son of Galal, the son of Jeduthun.



(e) That is, he began the psalm and was the chanter.
#BCV:Nehemiah 11:19
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 11:19>Nehemiah 11:19</verse></h3>

<page=1043>Moreover the porters, Akkub, Talmon, and their brethren that kept the (f) gates, [were] an hundred
seventy and two.



(f) Meaning of the temple.
#BCV:Nehemiah 11:20
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 11:20>Nehemiah 11:20</verse></h3>



And the (g) residue of Israel, of the priests, [and] the Levites, [were] in all the cities of Judah, every
one in his inheritance.



(g) Of them who dwelt not in Jerusalem.
#BCV:Nehemiah 11:24
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 11:24>Nehemiah 11:24</verse></h3>



And Pethahiah the son of Meshezabeel, of the children of Zerah the son of Judah, (h) [was] at the
king's hand in all matters concerning the people.



(h) Was chief about the king for all high affairs.

<h2>Nehemiah 12</h2>

#BCV:Nehemiah 12:1
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 12:1>Nehemiah 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=1044>Now these [are] the priests and the Levites that (a) went up with Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel,
and Jeshua: Seraiah, Jeremiah, Ezra,



(a) From Babylon to Jerusalem.
#BCV:Nehemiah 12:7
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 12:7>Nehemiah 12:7</verse></h3>



Sallu, Amok, Hilkiah, Jedaiah. These [were] the (b) chief of the priests and of their brethren in the
days of Jeshua.



(b) Next in dignity to the high priests and who were of the stock of Aaron.
#BCV:Nehemiah 12:8
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 12:8>Nehemiah 12:8</verse></h3>



Moreover the Levites: Jeshua, Binnui, Kadmiel, Sherebiah, Judah, [and] Mattaniah, (c) [which was]
over the thanksgiving, he and his brethren.



(c) Had charge of them who sang the psalms.
#BCV:Nehemiah 12:9
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 12:9>Nehemiah 12:9</verse></h3>



Also Bakbukiah and Unni, their brethren, [were] over against them in the (d) watches.



(d) They kept the wards and watches according to their turns, (<bcv=2Ch 23:6>Ch2 23:6</bcv>).

#BCV:Nehemiah 12:12
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 12:12>Nehemiah 12:12</verse></h3>



And in the days of Joiakim were priests, the chief of the fathers: of (e) Seraiah, Meraiah; of
Jeremiah, Hananiah;



(e) That is, next to Seraiah or rather of the order, who was called after the name of Seraiah.
#BCV:Nehemiah 12:17
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 12:17>Nehemiah 12:17</verse></h3>



Of (f) Abijah, Zichri; of Miniamin, of Moadiah, Piltai;



(f) Of which was Zachariah, John the Baptist's father.
#BCV:Nehemiah 12:24
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 12:24>Nehemiah 12:24</verse></h3>

<page=1045>And the chief of the Levites: Hashabiah, Sherebiah, and Jeshua the son of Kadmiel, with their
brethren over against them, to praise [and] to give thanks, according to the commandment of David
the man of God, ward over (g) against ward.



(g) That is, one after another and every one in his course.
#BCV:Nehemiah 12:28
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 12:28>Nehemiah 12:28</verse></h3>



And the sons of the singers gathered themselves together, both out of the plain country round
about Jerusalem, and from the villages of (h) Netophathi;



(h) Who were a certain family and had their possessions in the fields, (<bcv=1Ch 2:54>Ch1 2:54</bcv>).

#BCV:Nehemiah 12:31
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 12:31>Nehemiah 12:31</verse></h3>



Then (i) I brought up the princes of Judah upon the wall, and appointed two great [companies of
them that gave] thanks, [whereof one] went on the right hand upon the wall toward the dung gate:



(i) Meaning, Nehemiah.
#BCV:Nehemiah 12:36
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 12:36>Nehemiah 12:36</verse></h3>



And (k) his brethren, Shemaiah, and Azarael, Milalai, Gilalai, Maai, Nethaneel, and Judah, Hanani,
with the musical instruments of David the man of God, and Ezra the scribe before them.



(k) That is, the brass throne of Zaccur.
#BCV:Nehemiah 12:37
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 12:37>Nehemiah 12:37</verse></h3>



And at the fountain gate, which was over against them, they went up by the (l) stairs of the city of
David, at the going up of the wall, above the house of David, even unto the water gate eastward.



(l) Which was going up to the mount Zion, which is called the city of David.
#BCV:Nehemiah 12:44
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 12:44>Nehemiah 12:44</verse></h3>



And at that time were some appointed (m) over the chambers for the treasures, for the offerings, for
the firstfruits, and for the tithes, to gather into them out of the fields of the cities the portions of
the law for the priests and Levites: for Judah rejoiced for the priests and for the Levites that waited.



(m) Which were chambers appointed by Hezekiah to put in the tither, and such things, (<bcv=2Ch 31:11>Ch2 31:11</bcv>)
and now were repaired again for the same use.

#BCV:Nehemiah 12:47
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 12:47>Nehemiah 12:47</verse></h3>

#BCV:neh 12:47
<h3><verse=neh 12:47>neh 12:47</verse></h3>



singers and the porters, every day his portion: and they sanctified [holy things] unto the Levites; and
the Levites (n) sanctified [them] unto the children of Aaron.



(n) That is, the tenth part of the tithes.

<h2>Nehemiah 13</h2>

#BCV:Nehemiah 13:3
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 13:3>Nehemiah 13:3</verse></h3>

<page=1047>Now it came to pass, when they had heard the law, that they separated from Israel (a) all the mixed
multitude.



(a) That is, all who had joined in unlawful marriage and also those with whom God had forbidden
them to mingle with.
#BCV:Nehemiah 13:4
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 13:4>Nehemiah 13:4</verse></h3>



And before (b) this, Eliashib the priest, having the oversight of the chamber of the house of our
God, [was] (c) allied unto Tobiah:



(b) That the separation was made.



(c) He was united with Tobiah the Ammonite the enemy of the Jews.
#BCV:Nehemiah 13:6
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 13:6>Nehemiah 13:6</verse></h3>



But in all this [time] was not I at Jerusalem: for in the two and thirtieth year of (d) Artaxerxes king
of Babylon came I unto the king, and after certain days obtained I leave of the king:



(d) Called also Darius, (<bcv=Ezra 6:1>Ezr 6:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Nehemiah 13:7
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 13:7>Nehemiah 13:7</verse></h3>



And I came to Jerusalem, and understood of (e) the evil that Eliashib did for Tobiah, in preparing
him a chamber in the courts of the house of God.



(e) Thus we see to what inconveniences the people fall into when they are destitute of one who fears
God, seeing that their chief governor was absent only for a little while and yet they fell into such
great absurdities: as appears in, (<bcv=Exo 32:1>Exo 32:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Nehemiah 13:14
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 13:14>Nehemiah 13:14</verse></h3>



Remember me, O my God, concerning this, and wipe not out my (f) good deeds that I have done
for the house of my God, and for the offices thereof.



(f) He protests that he did his duty with a good conscience yet he does not justify himself in it, but
desires God to favour him and to be merciful to him for his own goodness' sake, as in (Neh
13:22,<bcv=Neh 13:31> Neh 13:31</bcv>).
#BCV:Nehemiah 13:15
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 13:15>Nehemiah 13:15</verse></h3>

<page=1048>In those days saw I in Judah [some] treading wine presses on the sabbath, and bringing in sheaves,
and lading asses; as also wine, grapes, and figs, and all [manner of] burdens, which they brought into
Jerusalem on the sabbath day: and (g) I testified [against them] in the day wherein they sold victuals.



(g) I declared to them that God would not allow such transgressors of his law to go unpunished.
#BCV:Nehemiah 13:18
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 13:18>Nehemiah 13:18</verse></h3>



Did not your fathers (h) thus, and did not our God bring all this evil upon us, and upon this city? yet
ye bring more wrath upon Israel by profaning the sabbath.



(h) Was this not the reason God plagued us in times past: meaning, that if they transgressed now in
the same way, their plague would be greater.
#BCV:Nehemiah 13:19
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 13:19>Nehemiah 13:19</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be (i) dark before the sabbath, I
commanded that the gates should be shut, and charged that they should not be opened till after the
sabbath: and [some] of my servants set I at the gates, [that] there should no burden be brought in on
the sabbath day.



(i) About the time that the sun went down, for the sabbath lasted from the sun setting one day, to
the sun setting the next day.
#BCV:Nehemiah 13:22
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 13:22>Nehemiah 13:22</verse></h3>



And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse themselves, and [that] they should come [and]



(k) keep the gates, to sanctify the sabbath day. Remember me, O my God, [concerning] this also, and
spare me according to the greatness of thy mercy.



(k) Meaning, of the temple that none that was unclean should enter.
#BCV:Nehemiah 13:23
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 13:23>Nehemiah 13:23</verse></h3>



In those days also saw I Jews [that] had married wives of (l) Ashdod, of Ammon, [and] of Moab:



(l) Which was a city of the Philistines and they had married wives from it and so had corrupted their
speech and religion.
#BCV:Nehemiah 13:25
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 13:25>Nehemiah 13:25</verse></h3>

<page=1049>And I contended with them, and (m) cursed them, and smote certain of them, and plucked off their
hair, and made them swear by God, [saying], Ye shall not give your daughters unto their sons, nor
take their daughters unto your sons, or for yourselves.



(m) That is, I excommunicated them and drove them out of the congregation.
#BCV:Nehemiah 13:29
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 13:29>Nehemiah 13:29</verse></h3>



Remember them, O my God, because they have (n) defiled the priesthood, and the covenant of the
priesthood, and of the Levites.



(n) Punish them according to their sin and the evil example they have given to the rest of the people
contrary to their calling.
#BCV:Nehemiah 13:31
<h3><verse=Nehemiah 13:31>Nehemiah 13:31</verse></h3>



And for the wood offering, at times appointed, and for the firstfruits. Remember me, O my God, (o)
for good.



(o) That is, to show mercy to me.

<h1>Esther</h1>


<h2>Esther 1</h2>

#BCV:Esther 1:6
<h3><verse=Esther 1:6>Esther 1:6</verse></h3>

<page=1051>[Where were] white, green, and blue, [hangings], fastened with cords of fine linen and purple to
silver rings and pillars of marble: the (d) beds [were of] gold and silver, upon a pavement of red, and
blue, and white, and black, marble.



(d) Which they used in those countries instead of tables.
#BCV:Esther 1:7
<h3><verse=Esther 1:7>Esther 1:7</verse></h3>



And they gave [them] drink in vessels of gold, (the vessels being diverse one from another,) and
royal wine in abundance, according to the (e) state of the king.



(e) As was befitting for so magnificent a king.
#BCV:Esther 1:8
<h3><verse=Esther 1:8>Esther 1:8</verse></h3>



And the drinking [was] according to the law; none did (f) compel: for so the king had appointed to
all the officers of his house, that they should do according to every man's pleasure.



(f) No one was forced to drink more than it pleased him.
#BCV:Esther 1:10
<h3><verse=Esther 1:10>Esther 1:10</verse></h3>



On the (g) seventh day, when the heart of the king was merry with wine, he commanded Mehuman,
Biztha, Harbona, Bigtha, and Abagtha, Zethar, and Carcas, the seven chamberlains that served in the
presence of Ahasuerus the king,



(g) Which was the last day of the feast that the king made for the people as in (<bcv=Esth 1:5>Est 1:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Esther 1:13
<h3><verse=Esther 1:13>Esther 1:13</verse></h3>



Then the king said to the wise men, (h) which knew the times, (for so [was] the king's manner
toward all that knew law and judgment:



(h) Who had experience in things as they had learned by diligent marking in continuance of time.
#BCV:Esther 1:14
<h3><verse=Esther 1:14>Esther 1:14</verse></h3>

<page=1052>And the next unto him [was] Carshena, Shethar, Admatha, Tarshish, Meres, Marsena, [and]
Memucan, the seven princes of Persia and Media, which saw the (i) king's face, [and] which sat the
first in the kingdom;)



(i) Who were his chief counsellors that always had access to him.
#BCV:Esther 1:16
<h3><verse=Esther 1:16>Esther 1:16</verse></h3>



And Memucan answered before the king and the princes, Vashti the queen hath not done (k) wrong
to the king only, but also to all the princes, and to all the people that [are] in all the provinces of the
king Ahasuerus.



(k) By her disobedience she has given an example to all women to do the same to their husbands.
#BCV:Esther 1:17
<h3><verse=Esther 1:17>Esther 1:17</verse></h3>



For [this] (l) deed of the queen shall come abroad unto all women, so that they shall despise their
husbands in their eyes, when it shall be reported, The king Ahasuerus commanded Vashti the queen
to be brought in before him, but she came not.



(l) That is, her disobedience.
#BCV:Esther 1:18
<h3><verse=Esther 1:18>Esther 1:18</verse></h3>



[Likewise] shall the (m) ladies of Persia and Media say this day unto all the king's princes, which have
heard of the deed of the queen. Thus [shall there arise] too much contempt and wrath.



(m) Meaning, that they would take the first opportunity to do the same and the rest of the women
would also do the same.
#BCV:Esther 1:19
<h3><verse=Esther 1:19>Esther 1:19</verse></h3>



If it please the king, let there go a royal commandment from him, and let it be written among the
laws of the Persians and the Medes, that it be not altered, That Vashti come (n) no more before king
Ahasuerus; and let the king give her royal estate unto another that is better than she.



(n) Let her be divorced and another made queen.
#BCV:Esther 1:20
<h3><verse=Esther 1:20>Esther 1:20</verse></h3>



And when the king's decree which he shall make shall be published throughout all his empire, (for it
is (o) great,) all the wives shall give to their husbands honour, both to great and small.



(o) For he had under him a hundred and twenty-seven countries.
#BCV:Esther 1:22
<h3><verse=Esther 1:22>Esther 1:22</verse></h3>

<page=1053>For he sent letters into all the king's provinces, into every province according to the writing thereof,
and to every people after their language, that every man should (p) bear rule in his own house, and
that [it] should be published according to the language of every people.



(p) That is, that the wife should be subject to the husband and at his commandment.
#BCV:Esther 1:1
<h3><verse=Esther 1:1>Esther 1:1</verse></h3>



Now it came to pass in the days of (a) Ahasuerus, (this [is] Ahasuerus which reigned, from India
even unto Ethiopia, [over] an (b) hundred and seven and twenty provinces:)



The Argument - Because of the variety of names, by which they used to call their kings, and the
number of years in which the Hebrews and the Greeks vary, various authors write concerning that
Ahasuerus but is seems in (<bcv=Dan 6:1>Dan 6:1</bcv>,<bcv=Dan 9:1> Dan 9:1</bcv>) that he was Darius king of the Medes and son of
Astyages also called Ahasuerus which was a name of honour and signified great and chief as chief
head. In this is declared the great mercies of God toward his church: who never fails them in their
greatest dangers, but when all hope of worldly help fades, he stirs up some, by whom he sends
comfort and deliverance. In this also is described the ambition, pride and cruelty of the wicked
when they come to honour and their sudden fall when they are at their highest and how God
preserves and prefers them who are zealous of his glory and have a care and love for their brethren.



(a) Also called Darius, who was now the favourite monarch and had the government of the Medes,
Persians and Chaldeans. Some think he was Darius Hystaspis also called Artaxerxes.



(b) (<bcv=Dan 6:1>Dan 6:1</bcv>) makes mention of only 120 leaving out the number that are imperfect as the scripture
uses in various places.
#BCV:Esther 1:2
<h3><verse=Esther 1:2>Esther 1:2</verse></h3>



[That] in those days, when the king Ahasuerus (c) sat on the throne of his kingdom, which [was] in
Shushan the palace,



(c) That is, had rest and quietness.

<h2>Esther 2</h2>

#BCV:Esther 2:1
<h3><verse=Esther 2:1>Esther 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=1054>After these things, when the wrath of king Ahasuerus was appeased, he (a) remembered Vashti, and
what she had done, and what was decreed (b) against her.



(a) That is, he brought the matter again into discussion. (b) By the seven wise men of his counsel.
#BCV:Esther 2:3
<h3><verse=Esther 2:3>Esther 2:3</verse></h3>



And let the king appoint officers in all the provinces of his kingdom, that they may gather together
all the fair young virgins unto Shushan the palace, to the house of the women, unto the custody of
Hege the king's chamberlain, (c) keeper of the women; and let their things (d) for purification be
given [them]:



(c) The abuse of these countries was so great, that they invented many means to serve the lusts of
princes and therefore they ordained wicked laws that the king might have whose daughters he would.
They had many houses appointed, one for the virgins, another for the concubines and another for
the queen.



(d) Read what this purification was in (<bcv=Esth 2:12>Est 2:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Esther 2:11
<h3><verse=Esther 2:11>Esther 2:11</verse></h3>



And Mordecai walked (e) every day before the court of the women's house, to know how Esther did,
and what should become of her.



(e) For though she was taken away by a cruel law, yet he did not cease to have a fatherly care for her,
and therefore often sought to hear of her.
#BCV:Esther 2:13
<h3><verse=Esther 2:13>Esther 2:13</verse></h3>



Then thus came [every] maiden unto the king; whatsoever she desired was (f) given her to go with
her out of the house of the women unto the king's house.



(f) Whatever apparel she asked for, the eunuch was bound to give to her.
#BCV:Esther 2:15
<h3><verse=Esther 2:15>Esther 2:15</verse></h3>



Now when the turn of Esther, the daughter of Abihail the uncle of Mordecai, who had taken her
for his daughter, was come to go in unto the king, she required nothing but what Hegai the king's
chamberlain, the keeper of the women, (g) appointed. And Esther obtained favour in the sight of all
them that looked upon her.

<page=1055>(g) In which her modesty appeared because she did not seek to dress to command her beauty but
sought the eunuch's appointment.
#BCV:Esther 2:16
<h3><verse=Esther 2:16>Esther 2:16</verse></h3>



So Esther was taken unto king Ahasuerus into his house royal in the tenth month, which [is] the (h)
month Tebeth, in the seventh year of his reign.



(h) Which contained part of December and part of January.
#BCV:Esther 2:18
<h3><verse=Esther 2:18>Esther 2:18</verse></h3>



Then the king made a great feast unto all his princes and his servants, [even] Esther's (i) feast; and he
made a release (k) to the provinces, and gave gifts, according to the (l) state of the king.



(i) That is, made for her sake.



(k) He released their tribute.



(l) That is, great and magnificent.
#BCV:Esther 2:19
<h3><verse=Esther 2:19>Esther 2:19</verse></h3>



And when the virgins were gathered together the (m) second time, then Mordecai sat in the king's
gate.



(m) That is, at the marriage of Esther, which was the second marriage for the king.
#BCV:Esther 2:21
<h3><verse=Esther 2:21>Esther 2:21</verse></h3>



In those days, while Mordecai sat in the king's gate, two of the king's chamberlains, Bigthan and
Teresh, of those which kept the door, were wroth, and sought to lay (n) hand on the king Ahasuerus.



(n) Meaning, to kill him.
#BCV:Esther 2:23
<h3><verse=Esther 2:23>Esther 2:23</verse></h3>



And when inquisition was made of the matter, it was found out; therefore they were both hanged on
a tree: and it was written in the book of the (o) chronicles before the king.



(o) In the chronicles of the Medes and Persians, (<bcv=Esth 10:2>Est 10:2</bcv>).

<h2>Esther 3</h2>

#BCV:Esther 3:2
<h3><verse=Esther 3:2>Esther 3:2</verse></h3>

<page=1056>And all the king's servants, that [were] in the king's gate, bowed, and reverenced Haman: for the king
had so commanded concerning him. But Mordecai (a) bowed not, nor did [him] reverence.



(a) The Persians custom was to kneel down and reverence their kings, and such as he anointed in
chief authority, which Mordecai would not do to this ambitious and proud man.
#BCV:Esther 3:4
<h3><verse=Esther 3:4>Esther 3:4</verse></h3>



Now it came to pass, when they spake daily unto him, and he hearkened not unto them, that they (b)
told Haman, to see whether Mordecai's matters would stand: for he had told them that he [was] a
Jew.



(b) Thus we see that there is no one so wicked but they have their flatterers to accuse the godly.
#BCV:Esther 3:7
<h3><verse=Esther 3:7>Esther 3:7</verse></h3>



In the first month, that [is], the month (c) Nisan, in the twelfth year of king Ahasuerus, they cast Pur,
that [is], the lot, (d) before Haman from day to day, and from month to month, [to] the twelfth
[month], that [is], the month (e) Adar.



(c) Which contains part of March and part of April.



(d) To know what month and day would be good to attempt this thing, that it might be successful:
but God disappointed their lots and expectations.



(e) Containing part of February and part of March.
#BCV:Esther 3:8
<h3><verse=Esther 3:8>Esther 3:8</verse></h3>



And Haman said unto king Ahasuerus, There is a certain people scattered abroad and dispersed
among the people in all the provinces of thy kingdom; and their laws [are] diverse from all people;
neither keep they the (f) king's laws: therefore it [is] not for the king's profit to suffer them.



(f) These are the two arguments which commonly the worldlings and the wicked use toward princes
against the godly, that is, the contempt of their laws and diminishing of their profit without concern
as to whether God is pleased or displeased.
#BCV:Esther 3:15
<h3><verse=Esther 3:15>Esther 3:15</verse></h3>

<page=1057>The posts went out, being hastened by the king's commandment, and the decree was given in
Shushan the palace. And the king and Haman sat down to drink; but the (g) city Shushan was
perplexed.



(g) That is, the Jews that were in Shushan.

<h2>Esther 4</h2>

#BCV:Esther 4:2
<h3><verse=Esther 4:2>Esther 4:2</verse></h3>

<page=1058>And came even before the king's (a) gate: for none [might] enter into the king's gate clothed with
sackcloth.



(a) Because he would inform Esther of this cruel proclamation.
#BCV:Esther 4:14
<h3><verse=Esther 4:14>Esther 4:14</verse></h3>



For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, [then] shall there enlargement and deliverance



(b) arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who
knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for (c) [such] a time as this?



(b) Thus Mordecai spoke in the confidence of that faith which all God's children should have; which
is that God will deliver them, though all worldly means fail.



(c) To deliver God's Church out of these present dangers.
#BCV:Esther 4:16
<h3><verse=Esther 4:16>Esther 4:16</verse></h3>



Go, gather together all the Jews that are present in Shushan, and fast ye for me, and neither eat nor
drink three days, night or day: I also and my maidens will fast likewise; and so will I go in unto the
king, which [is] not according to the law: and if I perish, (d) I perish.



(d) I will put my life in danger and refer the success to God, seeing it is for his glory and the
deliverance of his Church.

<h2>Esther 5</h2>

#BCV:Esther 5:1
<h3><verse=Esther 5:1>Esther 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=1059>Now it came to pass on the third (a) day, that Esther put on [her] royal [apparel], and stood in the
inner court of the king's house, over against the king's house: and the king sat upon his royal throne
in the royal house, over against the gate of the house.



(a) That is, after the Jews had begun to fast.
#BCV:Esther 5:2
<h3><verse=Esther 5:2>Esther 5:2</verse></h3>



And it was so, when the king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, [that] she obtained favour
in his sight: and the king (b) held out to Esther the golden sceptre that [was] in his hand. So Esther
drew near, and touched the top of the sceptre.



(b) Which was a sign that her coming was agreeable to him, (<bcv=Esth 4:11>Est 4:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Esther 5:3
<h3><verse=Esther 5:3>Esther 5:3</verse></h3>



Then said the king unto her, What wilt thou, queen Esther? and what [is] thy request? it shall be
even (c) given thee to the half of the kingdom.



(c) Meaning by this that whatever she asked would be granted as in (<bcv=Mar 6:23>Mar 6:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Esther 5:6
<h3><verse=Esther 5:6>Esther 5:6</verse></h3>



And the king said unto Esther at the banquet of (d) wine, What [is] thy petition? and it shall be
granted thee: and what [is] thy request? even to the half of the kingdom it shall be performed.



(d) Because they used to drink excessively in their banquets they called the banquet by that which
was most in use or esteemed.
#BCV:Esther 5:8
<h3><verse=Esther 5:8>Esther 5:8</verse></h3>



If I have found favour in the sight of the king, and if it please the king to grant my petition, and to
perform my request, let the king and Haman come to the banquet that I shall prepare for them, and
I will do to morrow as the king hath (e) said.



(e) I will declare what I demand.
#BCV:Esther 5:11
<h3><verse=Esther 5:11>Esther 5:11</verse></h3>

<page=1060>And Haman told them of the glory of his riches, and the multitude of his children, and all [the
things] wherein the king had (f) promoted him, and how he had advanced him above the princes and
servants of the king.



(f) Thus the wicked when they are promoted instead of acknowledging their charge and humbling
themselves, wax ambitious, disdainful and cruel.
#BCV:Esther 5:14
<h3><verse=Esther 5:14>Esther 5:14</verse></h3>



Then said Zeresh his wife and all his friends unto him, Let a gallows be made of fifty (g) cubits high,
and to morrow speak thou unto the king that Mordecai may be hanged thereon: then go thou in
merrily with the king unto the banquet. And the thing pleased Haman; and he caused the gallows to
be made.



(g) Meaning, the highest that could be found.

<h2>Esther 6</h2>

#BCV:Esther 6:3
<h3><verse=Esther 6:3>Esther 6:3</verse></h3>

<page=1061>And the king said, What honour and dignity hath been done to Mordecai (a) for this? Then said the
king's servants that ministered unto him, There is nothing done for him.



(a) For he thought it unworthy of his estate to receive a benefit and not reward it.
#BCV:Esther 6:4
<h3><verse=Esther 6:4>Esther 6:4</verse></h3>



And the king said, Who [is] in the court? Now Haman was come into the outward court of the
king's house, to speak unto the king to (b) hang Mordecai on the gallows that he had prepared for
him.



(b) Thus while the wicked imagine the destruction of others, they themselves fall into the same pit.
#BCV:Esther 6:8
<h3><verse=Esther 6:8>Esther 6:8</verse></h3>



Let the royal apparel be brought which the king [useth] to wear, and the (c) horse that the king rideth
upon, and the crown royal which is set upon his head:



(c) Meaning by this that the king should make him next to himself as Joseph was known to be next
to Pharaoh in (<bcv=Gen 41:43>Gen 41:43</bcv>).
#BCV:Esther 6:13
<h3><verse=Esther 6:13>Esther 6:13</verse></h3>



And Haman told Zeresh his wife and all his friends every [thing] that had befallen him. Then said
his wise men and Zeresh his wife unto him, If Mordecai [be] of the seed of the Jews, before whom
thou hast begun to fall, thou shalt not prevail against him, (d) but shalt surely fall before him.



(d) Thus God sometimes puts in the mouth of the very wicked to speak that thing which he has
decreed shall come to pass.

<h2>Esther 7</h2>

#BCV:Esther 7:4
<h3><verse=Esther 7:4>Esther 7:4</verse></h3>

<page=1062>For we are sold, I and my people, to be destroyed, to be slain, and to perish. But if we had been sold
for bondmen and bondwomen, I had held my tongue, although the enemy could not (b) countervail
the king's damage.



(b) Haman could not profit the king by his malice as much he would hinder him by the loss of the
Jews and the tribute which he had from them.
#BCV:Esther 7:7
<h3><verse=Esther 7:7>Esther 7:7</verse></h3>



And the king arising from the banquet of wine in his wrath [went] into the palace garden: and
Haman stood up to make request for his life to Esther the queen; for he saw that there was (c) evil
determined against him by the king.



(c) His conscience accused him that as he had conspired the death of innocents, so the vengeance
of God would fall on him for the same.
#BCV:Esther 7:8
<h3><verse=Esther 7:8>Esther 7:8</verse></h3>



Then the king returned out of the palace garden into the place of the banquet of wine; and Haman
was (d) fallen upon the bed whereon Esther [was]. Then said the king, Will he force the queen also
before me in the house? As the word went out of the king's mouth, they (e) covered Haman's face.



(d) He fell down at the couch on which she sat and made request for his life.



(e) This was the manner of the Persians, when one was out of favour with the king.
#BCV:Esther 7:9
<h3><verse=Esther 7:9>Esther 7:9</verse></h3>



And Harbonah, one of the chamberlains, said before the king, Behold also, the gallows fifty cubits
high, which Haman had made for Mordecai, who had spoken (f) good for the king, standeth in the
house of Haman. Then the king said, Hang him thereon.



(f) Who discovered the conspiracy against the king, (<bcv=Esth 2:21-22>Est 2:21-22</bcv>).

<h2>Esther 8</h2>

#BCV:Esther 8:1
<h3><verse=Esther 8:1>Esther 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=1063>On that day did the king Ahasuerus give the house of Haman the Jews' enemy unto Esther the
queen. And Mordecai (a) came before the king; for Esther had told what he [was] (b) unto her.



(a) That is, was received into the king's favour and presence.



(b) That he was her uncle, and had brought her up.
#BCV:Esther 8:3
<h3><verse=Esther 8:3>Esther 8:3</verse></h3>



And Esther spake yet again before the king, and fell down at his feet, and besought him with tears to
put away the (c) mischief of Haman the Agagite, and his device that he had devised against the Jews.



(c) Meaning, that he should abolish the wicked decrees, which he had made for the destruction of
the Jews.
#BCV:Esther 8:4
<h3><verse=Esther 8:4>Esther 8:4</verse></h3>



Then the king held out the golden (d) sceptre toward Esther. So Esther arose, and stood before the
king,



(d) Read (<bcv=Esth 5:2>Est 5:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Esther 8:8
<h3><verse=Esther 8:8>Esther 8:8</verse></h3>



Write ye also for the Jews, as it liketh you, in the king's name, and seal [it] with the king's ring: for the
writing which is written in the king's name, and sealed with the king's ring, may (e) no man reverse.



(e) This was the law of the Medes and Persians, as in (<bcv=Dan 6:15>Dan 6:15</bcv>) nonetheless the king revoked the
former decree granted to Haman for Esther's sake.
#BCV:Esther 8:9
<h3><verse=Esther 8:9>Esther 8:9</verse></h3>



Then were the king's scribes called at that time in the third month, that [is], the month (f) Sivan, on
the three and twentieth [day] thereof; and it was written according to all that Mordecai commanded
unto the Jews, and to the lieutenants, and the deputies and rulers of the provinces which [are] from
India unto Ethiopia, an hundred twenty and seven provinces, unto every province according to the



(g) writing thereof, and unto every people after their language, and to the Jews according to their
writing, and according to their language.



(f) Which contains part of May and part of June.

<page=1064>(g) That is, in such letters and languages as was usual in every province.
#BCV:Esther 8:11
<h3><verse=Esther 8:11>Esther 8:11</verse></h3>



Wherein the king granted the Jews which [were] in every city to gather themselves together, and to
stand for (h) their life, to destroy, to slay, and to cause to perish, all the power of the people and
province that would assault them, [both] little ones and women, and [to take] the spoil of them for a
prey,



(h) That is, to defend themselves against all who would assail them.
#BCV:Esther 8:12
<h3><verse=Esther 8:12>Esther 8:12</verse></h3>



Upon one day in all the provinces of king Ahasuerus, [namely], upon the thirteenth [day] of the
twelfth month, which [is] the month (i) Adar.



(i) Which has part of February and part of March.
#BCV:Esther 8:13
<h3><verse=Esther 8:13>Esther 8:13</verse></h3>



The copy of the writing for a commandment to be given in every province [was] published unto all
people, and that the Jews should be ready against that day to (k) avenge themselves on their enemies.



(k) The king gave them permission to kill all who oppressed them.
#BCV:Esther 8:16
<h3><verse=Esther 8:16>Esther 8:16</verse></h3>



The Jews had light, and (l) gladness, and joy, and honour.



(l) He showed by the words that follow, what this light was.
#BCV:Esther 8:17
<h3><verse=Esther 8:17>Esther 8:17</verse></h3>



And in every province, and in every city, whithersoever the king's commandment and his decree
came, the Jews had joy and gladness, a feast and a good day. And many of the people of the land (m)
became Jews; for the fear of the Jews fell upon them.



(m) Conformed themselves to the Jew's religion.

<h2>Esther 9</h2>

#BCV:Esther 9:1
<h3><verse=Esther 9:1>Esther 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=1065>Now in the twelfth month, that [is], the month Adar, on the thirteenth day of the same, when the
king's commandment and his decree drew near to be put in execution, in the day that the enemies of
the Jews hoped to have power over them, (though it was (a) turned to the contrary, that the Jews had
rule over them that hated them;)



(a) This was by God's great providence, who turns the joy of the wicked into sorrow, and the tears
of the godly into gladness.
#BCV:Esther 9:3
<h3><verse=Esther 9:3>Esther 9:3</verse></h3>



And all the rulers of the provinces, and the lieutenants, and the deputies, and officers of the king, (b)
helped the Jews; because the fear of Mordecai fell upon them.



(b) Honoured them and befriended them.
#BCV:Esther 9:5
<h3><verse=Esther 9:5>Esther 9:5</verse></h3>



Thus the Jews smote all their (c) enemies with the stroke of the sword, and slaughter, and
destruction, and did what they would unto those that hated them.



(c) Who had conspired their death by the permission of the wicked Haman.
#BCV:Esther 9:6
<h3><verse=Esther 9:6>Esther 9:6</verse></h3>



And in Shushan the palace the Jews slew and destroyed (d) five hundred men.



(d) Besides the three hundred that they slew the second day, (<bcv=Esth 9:15>Est 9:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Esther 9:10
<h3><verse=Esther 9:10>Esther 9:10</verse></h3>



The ten sons of Haman the son of Hammedatha, the enemy of the Jews, slew they; but (e) on the
spoil laid they not their hand.



(e) By which they declared that this was God's just judgment on the enemies of his Church as they
fought not for their own gain, but to execute his vengeance.
#BCV:Esther 9:13
<h3><verse=Esther 9:13>Esther 9:13</verse></h3>

<page=1066>Then said Esther, If it please the king, let it be granted to the Jews which [are] in Shushan to do to
morrow also according (f) unto this day's decree, and let Haman's ten sons be hanged upon the
gallows.



(f) This she requires not out of a desire for vengeance but with zeal to see God's judgment's
executed against his enemies.
#BCV:Esther 9:16
<h3><verse=Esther 9:16>Esther 9:16</verse></h3>



But the other Jews that [were] in the king's provinces gathered themselves together, and stood for (g)
their lives, and had rest from their enemies, and slew of their (h) foes seventy and five thousand, but
they laid not their hands on the prey,



(g) Read (<bcv=Esth 8:11>Est 8:11</bcv>).



(h) Meaning, that they laid hands on no one that was not the enemy of God.
#BCV:Esther 9:17
<h3><verse=Esther 9:17>Esther 9:17</verse></h3>



On the (i) thirteenth day of the month Adar; and on the fourteenth day of the same rested they, and
made it a day of feasting and gladness.



(i) Meaning, in all places saving Shushan.
#BCV:Esther 9:19
<h3><verse=Esther 9:19>Esther 9:19</verse></h3>



Therefore the Jews of the villages, that dwelt in the unwalled towns, (k) made the fourteenth day of
the month Adar [a day of] gladness and feasting, and a good day, and of sending portions one to
another.



(k) As the Jews do even to this day, calling it in the Persian language Purim, that is, the day of lots.
#BCV:Esther 9:20
<h3><verse=Esther 9:20>Esther 9:20</verse></h3>



And Mordecai wrote (l) these things, and sent letters unto all the Jews that [were] in all the provinces
of the king Ahasuerus, [both] nigh and far,



(l) The Jews gather from this that Mordecai wrote this book, but it seems that he wrote only these
letters and decrees that follow.
#BCV:Esther 9:22
<h3><verse=Esther 9:22>Esther 9:22</verse></h3>

<page=1067>As the days wherein the Jews rested from their enemies, and the month which was turned unto them
from sorrow to joy, and from mourning into a good day: that they should make them days of
feasting and joy, and of (m) sending portions one to another, and gifts to the poor.



(m) He sets before our eyes the use of this feast which was for the remembrance of God's
deliverance, the maintenance of mutual friendship and relief of the poor.
#BCV:Esther 9:24
<h3><verse=Esther 9:24>Esther 9:24</verse></h3>



Because Haman the son of Hammedatha, the Agagite, the enemy of all the Jews, had devised
against the Jews to destroy them, and had (n) cast Pur, that [is], the lot, to consume them, and to
destroy them;



(n) Read (<bcv=Esth 3:7>Est 3:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Esther 9:25
<h3><verse=Esther 9:25>Esther 9:25</verse></h3>



But when (o) [Esther] came before the king, he commanded by letters that his wicked (p) device,
which he devised against the Jews, should return upon his own head, and that he and his sons
should be hanged on the gallows.



(o) That is, Esther.



(p) These are the words of the kings commandment to disannul Haman's wicked enterprise.
#BCV:Esther 9:27
<h3><verse=Esther 9:27>Esther 9:27</verse></h3>



The Jews ordained, and took upon them, and upon their seed, and upon all such as joined
themselves unto them, so as it should not fail, that they would keep these two (q) days according to
their writing, and according to their [appointed] time every year;



(q) Meaning, the fourteenth and fifteenth days of the month of Adar.
#BCV:Esther 9:30
<h3><verse=Esther 9:30>Esther 9:30</verse></h3>



And he sent the letters unto all the Jews, to the hundred twenty and seven provinces of the kingdom
of Ahasuerus, [with] (r) words of peace and truth,



(r) Which were letters declaring to them quietness and assurance and putting them out of doubt and
fear.
#BCV:Esther 9:31
<h3><verse=Esther 9:31>Esther 9:31</verse></h3>

<page=1068>To confirm these days of Purim in their times [appointed], according as Mordecai the Jew and
Esther the queen had enjoined them, and as they had decreed for themselves and for their seed, the
matters of the (s) fastings and their cry.



(s) That they would observe this feast with fasting and earnest prayer, which in Hebrew is signified
by this word (they cry).

<h2>Esther 10</h2>

#BCV:Esther 10:3
<h3><verse=Esther 10:3>Esther 10:3</verse></h3>

<page=1069>For Mordecai the Jew [was] next unto king Ahasuerus, and great among the Jews, and (a) accepted
of the multitude of his brethren, seeking the wealth of his people, and speaking peace to all his seed.



(a) These three points are here set forth as commendable and necessary for him that is in authority
to have the favour of the people, to procure their wealth, and to be gentle and loving to them.

<h1>Job</h1>


<h2>Job 1</h2>

#BCV:Job 1:1
<h3><verse=Job 1:1>Job 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=1071>There was a man in the land of (a) Uz, whose name [was] Job; and that man was perfect and (b)
upright, and (c) one that feared God, and eschewed evil.



The Argument - In this history the example of patience is set before our eyes. This holy man Job
was not only extremely afflicted in outward things and in his body, but also in his mind and
conscience, by the sharp temptation of his wife and friends: who by their vehement words and
subtle disputations brought him almost to despair. They set forth God as a sincere judge, and mortal
enemy to him who had cast him off, therefore in vain he should seek him for help. These friends
came to him under pretence of consolation, and yet they tormented him more than all his afflictions
did. Even so, he constantly resisted them, and eventually succeeded. In this story we must note that
Job maintains a good cause, but handles it badly. His adversaries have an evil matter, but they defend
it craftily. Job held that God did not always punish men according to their sins, but that he had
secret judgments, of which man knew not the cause, and therefore man could not reason against
God in it, but he should be convicted. Moreover, he was assured that God had not rejected him, yet
through his great torments and afflictions he speaks many inconveniences and shows himself as a
desperate man in many things, and as one that would resist God, and this is his good cause which he
handles well. Again the adversaries maintain with many good arguments that God punishes
continually according to the trespass, grounding on God's providence, his justice and man's sins, yet
their intention is evil; for they labour to bring Job into despair, and so they maintain an evil cause.
Ezekiel commends Job as a just man, (<bcv=Ezek 14:14>Eze 14:14</bcv>) and James sets out his patience for an example,



(<bcv=Jam 5:11>Jam 5:11</bcv>).



(a) That is, of the country of Idumea, (<bcv=Lam 4:21>Lam 4:21</bcv>), or bordering on it: for the land was called by the
name of Uz, the son of Dishan, the son of Seir (<bcv=Gen 36:28>Gen 36:28</bcv>).



(b) Since he was a Gentile and not a Jew and yet is pronounced upright and without hypocrisy, it
declares that among the heathen God revealed himself.



(c) By this it is declared what is meant by an upright and just man.
#BCV:Job 1:3
<h3><verse=Job 1:3>Job 1:3</verse></h3>



His (d) substance also was seven thousand sheep, and three thousand camels, and five hundred yoke
of oxen, and five hundred she asses, and a very great household; so that this man was the greatest of
all the men of (e) the east.

<page=1072>(d) His children and riches are declared, to commend his virtue in his prosperity and his patience
and constancy when God took them from him.



(e) Meaning, the Arabians, Chaldeans, Idumeans etc.
#BCV:Job 1:5
<h3><verse=Job 1:5>Job 1:5</verse></h3>



And it was so, when the days of [their] feasting were gone about, that Job sent and (f) sanctified
them, and rose up early in the morning, and (g) offered burnt offerings [according] to the number
of them all: for Job said, It may be that my sons have sinned, and (h) cursed God in their hearts.
Thus did Job (i) continually.



(f) That is, commanded them to be sanctified: meaning, that they should consider the faults that they
had committed, and reconcile themselves for the same.



(g) That is, he offered for each of his children an offering of reconciliation, which declared his
religion toward God, and the care that he had for his children.



(h) In Hebrew it is, "blessed God", which is sometimes taken for blaspheming and cursing, as it is
here and in (<bcv=I Ki 21:10>Kg1 21:10</bcv>,<bcv=1Ki 21:13> Kg1 21:13).</bcv>



(i) While the feast lasted.
#BCV:Job 1:6
<h3><verse=Job 1:6>Job 1:6</verse></h3>



Now there was a day when the (k) sons of God came to present themselves (l) before the LORD,
and Satan (m) came also among them.



(k) Meaning the angels, who are called the sons of God because they are willing to execute his will.



(l) Because our infirmity cannot comprehend God in his majesty, he is set forth to us as a King, that
our capacity may be able to understand that which is spoken of him.



(m) This declares that although Satan is an adversary to God, yet he is compelled to obey him, and
do him all homage, without whose permission and appointment he can do nothing.
#BCV:Job 1:7
<h3><verse=Job 1:7>Job 1:7</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Satan, Whence (n) comest thou? Then Satan answered the LORD, and
said, (o) From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it.



(n) This question is asked for our infirmity: for God knew where he had come from.



(o) In this is described the nature of Satan, which is always seeking his prey, (<bcv=1Pe 5:8>Pe1 5:8</bcv>).

#BCV:Job 1:9
<h3><verse=Job 1:9>Job 1:9</verse></h3>

<page=1073>Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, Doth Job fear God for (p) nought?


(p) He fears you not for your own sake, but for the blessing that he received from you.
#BCV:Job 1:10
<h3><verse=Job 1:10>Job 1:10</verse></h3>



Hast not thou made (q) an hedge about him, and about his house, and about all that he hath on
every side? thou hast blessed the work of his hands, and his substance is increased in the land.



(q) Meaning, the grace of God, which served Job as a rampart against all temptations.
#BCV:Job 1:11
<h3><verse=Job 1:11>Job 1:11</verse></h3>



But put forth thine hand now, and (r) touch all that he hath, and he will curse thee to (s) thy face.



(r) This signifies that Satan is not able to touch us, but it is God that must do it.



(s) Satan notes the vice to which men are commonly subjected, that is, to hide their rebellion and to
be content with God in the time of prosperity which view is disclosed in the time of their adversity.
#BCV:Job 1:12
<h3><verse=Job 1:12>Job 1:12</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath [is] in (t) thy power; only upon himself put
not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the (u) presence of the LORD.



(t) God does not give Satan power over man to gratify him, but to declare that he has no power over
man, but that which God gives him.



(u) That is, went to execute that which God had permitted him to do for else he can never go out of
God's presence.
#BCV:Job 1:15
<h3><verse=Job 1:15>Job 1:15</verse></h3>



And the (x) Sabeans fell [upon them], and took them away; yea, they have slain the servants with the
edge of the sword; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee.



(x) That is, the Arabians.
#BCV:Job 1:16
<h3><verse=Job 1:16>Job 1:16</verse></h3>



While he [was] yet speaking, there came also another, and said, The (y) fire of God is fallen from
heaven, and hath burned up the sheep, and the servants, and consumed them; and I only am escaped
alone to tell thee.

<page=1074>(y) Which was also done by the craft of Satan, to tempt Job even more grievously, so he might see
that not only men were his enemies, but that God made war against him.
#BCV:Job 1:18
<h3><verse=Job 1:18>Job 1:18</verse></h3>



While he [was] yet speaking, there came also another, and said, Thy (z) sons and thy daughters [were]
eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother's house:



(z) This last plague declares that when one plague is past which seems hard to bear, God can send us
another far more grievous, to try his and teach them obedience.
#BCV:Job 1:20
<h3><verse=Job 1:20>Job 1:20</verse></h3>



Then Job arose, and (a) rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and
worshipped,



(a) Which came not from impatience, but declares that the children of God are not insensible like
blocks, but that in their patience they feel affliction and grief of mind: yet they do not rebel against
God as the wicked do.
#BCV:Job 1:21
<h3><verse=Job 1:21>Job 1:21</verse></h3>



And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return (b) thither: the LORD
gave, and the LORD hath taken away; (c) blessed be the name of the LORD.



(b) That is, into the belly of the earth, which is the mother of all.



(c) By this he confesses that God is just and good, although his hand is sore on him.
#BCV:Job 1:22
<h3><verse=Job 1:22>Job 1:22</verse></h3>



In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God (d) foolishly.



(d) But declared that God did all things according to justice and equity.

<h2>Job 2</h2>

#BCV:Job 2:1
<h3><verse=Job 2:1>Job 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=1075>Again there was a day when the (a) sons of God came to present themselves before the LORD, and



(b) Satan came also among them to present himself before the LORD.



(a) That is, the angels, (<bcv=Job 1:6>Job 1:6</bcv>).



(b) Read (<bcv=Job 1:6>Job 1:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Job 2:3
<h3><verse=Job 2:3>Job 2:3</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Satan, Hast thou considered my servant Job, that [there is] none like him
in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil? and still he
holdeth fast his integrity, (c) although thou movedst me against (d) him, to destroy him without
cause.



(c) He proves Job's integrity by this that he ceased not to fear God when his plagues were grievously
upon him.



(d) That is, when you had nothing against him, or when you were not able to bring your purpose to
pass.
#BCV:Job 2:4
<h3><verse=Job 2:4>Job 2:4</verse></h3>



And Satan answered the LORD, and said, (e) Skin for skin, yea, all that a man hath will he give for
his life.



(e) By this he means that a man's own skin is dearer to him than another man's.
#BCV:Job 2:5
<h3><verse=Job 2:5>Job 2:5</verse></h3>



But put forth thine hand now, and touch his (f) bone and his flesh, and he will curse thee to thy face.



(f) Meaning, his own person.
#BCV:Job 2:6
<h3><verse=Job 2:6>Job 2:6</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto Satan, Behold, he [is] in thine hand; but save (g) his life.



(g) Thus Satan can go no further in punishing than God has limited him.
#BCV:Job 2:7
<h3><verse=Job 2:7>Job 2:7</verse></h3>

<page=1076>So went Satan forth from the presence of the LORD, and smote Job with sore (h) boils from the
sole of his foot unto his crown.



(h) This sore was most vehement, with which God also plagued the Egyptians, (<bcv=Exo 9:9>Exo 9:9</bcv>) and
threatened to punish rebellious people, (<bcv=Deu 28:27>Deu 28:27</bcv>) so that this temptation was most grievous: for if
Job had measured God's favour by the vehemency of his disease, he might have thought that God
had cast him off.
#BCV:Job 2:8
<h3><verse=Job 2:8>Job 2:8</verse></h3>



And he took him a (i) potsherd to scrape himself withal; and he sat down among the ashes.



(i) As destitute of all other help and means and wonderfully afflicted with the sorrow of his disease.
#BCV:Job 2:9
<h3><verse=Job 2:9>Job 2:9</verse></h3>



Then said his (k) wife unto him, Dost thou (l) still retain thine integrity? (m) curse God, and die.



(k) Satan uses the same instrument against Job, as he did against Adam.



(l) Meaning, what do you gain from serving God, seeing he thus plagues you, as though he were
your enemy? This is the most grievous temptation for the faithful, when their faith is assailed, and
when Satan goes about to persuade them that they trust in God in vain.



(m) For death was appointed to the blasphemer and so she meant that he would quickly be rid of his
pain.
#BCV:Job 2:10
<h3><verse=Job 2:10>Job 2:10</verse></h3>



But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive
good at the hand of God, and shall we not (n) receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his (o) lips.



(n) That is, to be patient in adversity as we rejoice when he sends prosperity, and so to acknowledge
him to be both merciful and just.



(o) He so bridled his desires that his tongue through impatience did not murmur against God.
#BCV:Job 2:11
<h3><verse=Job 2:11>Job 2:11</verse></h3>



Now when Job's three (p) friends heard of all this evil that was come upon him, they came every
one from his own place; Eliphaz the Temanite, and Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite:
for they had made an appointment together to come to mourn with him and to comfort him.

<page=1077>(p) Who were men of authority, wise and learned, and as the Septuagint writes, kings, and came to
comfort him, but when they saw how he was visited, they conceived an evil opinion of him, as
though he was a hypocrite and so justly plagued by God for his sins.
#BCV:Job 2:12
<h3><verse=Job 2:12>Job 2:12</verse></h3>



And when they lifted up their eyes afar off, and knew him not, they lifted up their voice, and wept;
and they rent every one his mantle, and sprinkled (q) dust upon their heads toward heaven.



(q) This was also a ceremony which they used in those countries as the renting of their clothes in
sign of sorrow etc.
#BCV:Job 2:13
<h3><verse=Job 2:13>Job 2:13</verse></h3>



So they sat down with him upon the ground seven days and seven nights, and none spake a word
unto him: for they saw that [his] grief was very (r) great.



(r) And therefore thought that he would not have listened to their counsel.

<h2>Job 3</h2>

#BCV:Job 3:1
<h3><verse=Job 3:1>Job 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=1078>After this opened (a) Job his mouth, and (b) cursed his day.


(a) The seven days ended, (<bcv=Job 2:13>Job 2:13</bcv>).



(b) Here Job begins to feel his great imperfection in this battle between the spirit and the flesh, (Rom
7:18) and after a manner yields yet in the end he gets victory though he was in the mean time greatly
wounded.
#BCV:Job 3:3
<h3><verse=Job 3:3>Job 3:3</verse></h3>



Let the day (c) perish wherein I was born, and the night [in which] it was said, There is a man child
conceived.



(c) Men should not be weary of their life and curse it, because of the infinities that it is subject to,
but because they are given to sin and rebellion against God.
#BCV:Job 3:4
<h3><verse=Job 3:4>Job 3:4</verse></h3>



Let that day be darkness; let not God (d) regard it from above, neither let the light shine upon it.



(d) Let it be put out of the number of days, and let it not have the sight of the sun to separate it
from the night.
#BCV:Job 3:5
<h3><verse=Job 3:5>Job 3:5</verse></h3>



Let darkness and the (e) shadow of death stain it; let a cloud dwell upon it; let the blackness of the
day terrify it.



(e) That is, most obscure darkness, which makes them afraid of death that they are in it.
#BCV:Job 3:8
<h3><verse=Job 3:8>Job 3:8</verse></h3>



Let them curse it that curse the day, who are (f) ready to raise up their mourning.



(f) Who curse the day of their birth, let them lay that curse on this night.
#BCV:Job 3:9
<h3><verse=Job 3:9>Job 3:9</verse></h3>



Let the stars of the twilight thereof be dark; let it look for light, but [have] none; neither let it (g) see
the dawning of the day:

<page=1079>(g) Let it be always night, and never see day.
#BCV:Job 3:11
<h3><verse=Job 3:11>Job 3:11</verse></h3>




(h) Why died I not from the womb? [why] did I [not] give up the ghost when I came out of the belly?



(h) This, and that which follows declares, that when man gives place to his passions, he is not able to
stay or keep measure, but runs headlong into all evil unless God calls him back.
#BCV:Job 3:13
<h3><verse=Job 3:13>Job 3:13</verse></h3>



For now should I have (i) lain still and been quiet, I should have slept: then had I been at rest,



(i) The vehemency of his afflictions made him utter these words as though death was the end of all
miseries, and as if there were no life after this, which he speaks not as though it were so, but the
infirmities of his flesh caused him to break out in this error of the wicked.
#BCV:Job 3:14
<h3><verse=Job 3:14>Job 3:14</verse></h3>



With kings and counsellors of the earth, which built (k) desolate places for themselves;



(k) He notes the ambition of them who for their pleasure as it were change the order of nature, and
build in most barren places, because they would by this make their names immortal.
#BCV:Job 3:17
<h3><verse=Job 3:17>Job 3:17</verse></h3>



There the wicked (l) cease [from] troubling; and there the weary be at rest.



(l) That is, by death the cruelty of the tyrants has ceased.
#BCV:Job 3:18
<h3><verse=Job 3:18>Job 3:18</verse></h3>



[There] the (m) prisoners rest together; they hear not the voice of the oppressor.



(m) All they who sustain any kind of calamity and misery in this world: which he speaks after the
judgment of the flesh.
#BCV:Job 3:20
<h3><verse=Job 3:20>Job 3:20</verse></h3>



Wherefore is light given to him that is in misery, and (n) life unto the bitter [in] soul;



(n) He shows that the benefits of God are not comfortable, unless the heart is joyful, and the
conscience quieted.
#BCV:Job 3:23
<h3><verse=Job 3:23>Job 3:23</verse></h3>

#BCV:job 3:23
<h3><verse=job 3:23>job 3:23</verse></h3>




(o) That sees not how to come out of his miseries, because he does not depend on God's
providence.
#BCV:Job 3:25
<h3><verse=Job 3:25>Job 3:25</verse></h3>



For the thing which I greatly (p) feared is come upon me, and that which I was afraid of is come
unto me.



(p) In my prosperity I looked for a fall, as it now has come to pass.
#BCV:Job 3:26
<h3><verse=Job 3:26>Job 3:26</verse></h3>



I was not in safety, neither had I rest, neither was I quiet; (q) yet trouble came.



(q) The fear of troubles that would ensue, caused my prosperity to seem to me as nothing, and yet I
am not exempted from trouble.

<h2>Job 4</h2>

#BCV:Job 4:2
<h3><verse=Job 4:2>Job 4:2</verse></h3>

<page=1081>[If] we assay to commune with thee, wilt thou be grieved? but (a) who can withhold himself from
speaking?



(a) Seeing your impatience.
#BCV:Job 4:3
<h3><verse=Job 4:3>Job 4:3</verse></h3>



Behold, thou hast instructed many, and thou (b) hast strengthened the weak hands.



(b) You have comforted others in their afflictions but you cannot now comfort yourself.
#BCV:Job 4:6
<h3><verse=Job 4:6>Job 4:6</verse></h3>



[Is] not [this] thy (c) fear, thy confidence, thy hope, and the uprightness of thy ways?



(c) He concludes that Job was a hypocrite and had no true fear or trust in God.
#BCV:Job 4:7
<h3><verse=Job 4:7>Job 4:7</verse></h3>



Remember, I pray thee, who [ever] perished, being (d) innocent? or where were the righteous cut off ?



(d) He concludes that Job was reproved seeing that God handles him so extremely, which is the
argument that the carnal men make against the children of God.
#BCV:Job 4:8
<h3><verse=Job 4:8>Job 4:8</verse></h3>



Even as I have seen, they that (e) plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, reap the same.



(e) They who do evil cannot but receive evil.
#BCV:Job 4:9
<h3><verse=Job 4:9>Job 4:9</verse></h3>



By the (f) blast of God they perish, and by the breath of his nostrils are they consumed.



(f) He shows that God needs no great preparation to destroy his enemies: for he can do it with the
blast of his mouth.
#BCV:Job 4:10
<h3><verse=Job 4:10>Job 4:10</verse></h3>

<page=1082>The roaring of the (g) lion, and the voice of the fierce lion, and the teeth of the young lions, are
broken.



(g) Though men according to their office do not punish tyrants (whom for their cruelty he compares
to lions, and their children to their whelps) yet God is able and his justice will punish them.
#BCV:Job 4:12
<h3><verse=Job 4:12>Job 4:12</verse></h3>



Now a thing was (h) secretly brought to me, and mine ear received a little thereof.



(h) A thing I did not know before was declared to me by vision, that is that whoever thinks himself
just will be found a sinner when he comes before God.
#BCV:Job 4:14
<h3><verse=Job 4:14>Job 4:14</verse></h3>



Fear came upon me, and trembling, which made all my bones (i) to shake.



(i) In these visions which God shows to his creatures, there is always a certain fear joined, that the
authority of it might be had in greater reverence.
#BCV:Job 4:16
<h3><verse=Job 4:16>Job 4:16</verse></h3>



It stood still, but I could not discern the form thereof: an image [was] before mine eyes, [there was]



(k) silence, and I heard a voice, [saying],



(k) When all things were quiet or when the fear was relieved as God appeared to Elijah, (<bcv=I Ki 19:12>Kg1 19:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Job 4:17
<h3><verse=Job 4:17>Job 4:17</verse></h3>



Shall mortal man be more (l) just than God? shall a man be more pure than his maker?



(l) He proves that if God punished the innocent, the creature would be more just than the creator,
which was blasphemy.
#BCV:Job 4:18
<h3><verse=Job 4:18>Job 4:18</verse></h3>



Behold, he put no trust in his servants; and his (m) angels he charged with folly:



(m) If God finds imperfection in his angels when they are not maintained by his power, how much
more shall he lay folly to man's charge when he would justify himself against God?
#BCV:Job 4:19
<h3><verse=Job 4:19>Job 4:19</verse></h3>

<page=1083>How much less [in] them that dwell in houses of (n) clay, whose foundation [is] in the dust, [which]
are crushed before the moth?


(n) That is, in this mortal body, subject to corruption, as in (<bcv=2Co 5:1>Co2 5:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Job 4:20
<h3><verse=Job 4:20>Job 4:20</verse></h3>



They are destroyed from (o) morning to evening: they perish for ever (p) without any regarding [it].



(o) They see death continually before their eyes and daily approaching them.



(p) No man for all this considers it.
#BCV:Job 4:21
<h3><verse=Job 4:21>Job 4:21</verse></h3>



Doth not their excellency [which is] in them go away? they die, even without (q) wisdom.



(q) That is, before any of them were so wise, as to think of death.

<h2>Job 5</h2>

#BCV:Job 5:1
<h3><verse=Job 5:1>Job 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=1084>Call now, if there be any that will (a) answer thee; and to which of the saints wilt thou turn?


(a) He wills Job to consider the example of all who have lived or live godly, whether any of them are
like him in raging against God as he does.
#BCV:Job 5:2
<h3><verse=Job 5:2>Job 5:2</verse></h3>



For (b) wrath killeth the foolish man, and envy slayeth the silly one.



(b) Murmuring against God in afflictions increases the pain, and uttered man's folly.
#BCV:Job 5:3
<h3><verse=Job 5:3>Job 5:3</verse></h3>



I have seen the (c) foolish taking root: but suddenly I (d) cursed his habitation.



(c) That is, the sinner that does not have the fear of God.



(d) I was not moved by his prosperity but knew that God had cursed him and his.
#BCV:Job 5:4
<h3><verse=Job 5:4>Job 5:4</verse></h3>



His (e) children are far from safety, and they are crushed in the (f) gate, neither [is there] any to
deliver [them].



(e) Though God sometimes allows the father's to pass in this world, yet his judgments will light on
their wicked children.



(f) By public judgment they will be condemned and no one will pity them.
#BCV:Job 5:5
<h3><verse=Job 5:5>Job 5:5</verse></h3>



Whose harvest the hungry eateth up, and taketh it even out of the (g) thorns, and the robber
swalloweth up their substance.



(g) Though there are only two or three ears left in the hedges, yet these will be taken from him.
#BCV:Job 5:6
<h3><verse=Job 5:6>Job 5:6</verse></h3>



Although affliction cometh not forth of the dust, (h) neither doth trouble spring out of the ground;



(h) That is, the earth is not the cause of barrenness and man's misery, but his own sin.
#BCV:Job 5:7
<h3><verse=Job 5:7>Job 5:7</verse></h3>

<page=1085>Yet man is born unto (i) trouble, as the sparks fly upward.


(i) Which declares that sin is always in our corrupt nature: for before sin it was not subject to pain
and affliction.
#BCV:Job 5:8
<h3><verse=Job 5:8>Job 5:8</verse></h3>



I would seek unto (k) God, and unto God would I commit my cause:



(k) If I suffered as you do, I would seek God.
#BCV:Job 5:9
<h3><verse=Job 5:9>Job 5:9</verse></h3>



Which (l) doeth great things and unsearchable; marvellous things without number:



(l) He counsels Job to humble himself to God to whom all creatures are subject and whose works
declare that man is inexcusable unless he glorifies God in all his works.
#BCV:Job 5:10
<h3><verse=Job 5:10>Job 5:10</verse></h3>



Who (m) giveth rain upon the earth, and sendeth waters upon the fields:



(m) He shows by particular examples what the works of God are.
#BCV:Job 5:14
<h3><verse=Job 5:14>Job 5:14</verse></h3>



They meet with (n) darkness in the daytime, and (o) grope in the noonday as in the night.



(n) In things plain and evident they show themselves fools instead of wise men.



(o) This declares that God punishes the worldly wise as he threatened in (<bcv=Deu 28:29>Deu 28:29</bcv>).
#BCV:Job 5:15
<h3><verse=Job 5:15>Job 5:15</verse></h3>



But he saveth the (p) poor from the sword, from their (q) mouth, and from the hand of the mighty.



(p) That is, he who humbles himself before God.



(q) He compares the slander of the wicked to sharp swords.
#BCV:Job 5:16
<h3><verse=Job 5:16>Job 5:16</verse></h3>

<page=1086>So the poor hath hope, and iniquity (r) stoppeth her mouth.



(r) If the wicked are compelled by God's works to shut their mouths, how much more they who
profess God.
#BCV:Job 5:19
<h3><verse=Job 5:19>Job 5:19</verse></h3>



He shall deliver thee in (s) six troubles: yea, in seven there shall no evil touch thee.



(s) He will send trouble after trouble that his children may not for one time, but continually trust in
him: but they sill have a comfortable issue, even in the greatest and the last, which is here called the
seventh.
#BCV:Job 5:22
<h3><verse=Job 5:22>Job 5:22</verse></h3>



At destruction and famine thou shalt (t) laugh: neither shalt thou be afraid of the beasts of the earth.



(t) While the wicked lament in their troubles, you will have occasion to rejoice.
#BCV:Job 5:23
<h3><verse=Job 5:23>Job 5:23</verse></h3>



For thou (u) shalt be in league with the stones of the field: and the beasts of the field shall be at
peace with thee.



(u) When we are in God's favour, all creatures will serve us.
#BCV:Job 5:24
<h3><verse=Job 5:24>Job 5:24</verse></h3>



And thou shalt know that thy tabernacle [shall be] in peace; and thou shalt visit thy habitation, and
shalt not (x) sin.



(x) God will so bless you that you will have opportunity to rejoice in all things, and not be offended.
#BCV:Job 5:26
<h3><verse=Job 5:26>Job 5:26</verse></h3>



Thou shalt come to [thy] grave in (y) a full age, like as a shock of corn cometh in his season.



(y) Though the children of God have not always carried out this promise, yet God recompenses it
otherwise to their advantage.
#BCV:Job 5:27
<h3><verse=Job 5:27>Job 5:27</verse></h3>



Lo (z) this, we have searched it, so it [is]; hear it, and know thou [it] for thy good.

<page=1087>(z) We have learned these points by experience, that God does not punish the innocent, that man
cannot compare in justice with him, that the hypocrites will not prosper for long, and that the
affliction which man sustains comes for his own sin.

<h2>Job 6</h2>

#BCV:Job 6:2
<h3><verse=Job 6:2>Job 6:2</verse></h3>

<page=1088>Oh that my grief were throughly weighed, and my calamity laid in the (a) balances together!

(a) To know whether I complain without just cause.
#BCV:Job 6:3
<h3><verse=Job 6:3>Job 6:3</verse></h3>



For now it would be heavier than the sand of the sea: therefore my words are (b) swallowed up.



(b) My grief is so great that I lack words to express it.
#BCV:Job 6:4
<h3><verse=Job 6:4>Job 6:4</verse></h3>



For the arrows of the Almighty [are] within me, the poison whereof drinketh up my spirit: the
terrors of God do (c) set themselves in array against me.



(c) Which declares that he was not only afflicted in body, but wounded in conscience, which is the
greatest battle that the faithful can have.
#BCV:Job 6:5
<h3><verse=Job 6:5>Job 6:5</verse></h3>



Doth the (d) wild ass bray when he hath grass? or loweth the ox over his fodder?



(d) Do you think that I cry without cause, seeing the brute beasts do not complain when they have
what they want.
#BCV:Job 6:6
<h3><verse=Job 6:6>Job 6:6</verse></h3>



Can that which is (e) unsavoury be eaten without salt? or is there [any] taste in the white of an egg?



(e) Can a man's taste delight in that, which has no savour? meaning that no one takes pleasure in
affliction seeing they cannot do away with things that are unsavoury to the mouth.
#BCV:Job 6:8
<h3><verse=Job 6:8>Job 6:8</verse></h3>



Oh that I might have my (f) request; and that God would grant [me] the thing that I long for!

(f) In this he sins double, both in wishing through impatience to die, and also in desiring of God a
thing which was not agreeable to his will.
#BCV:Job 6:10
<h3><verse=Job 6:10>Job 6:10</verse></h3>

<page=1089>Then should I yet have comfort; yea, I would harden myself in sorrow: let him not spare; (g) for I
have not concealed the words of the Holy One.



(g) That is, let me die at once before I come to distrust God's promise through my impatience.
#BCV:Job 6:11
<h3><verse=Job 6:11>Job 6:11</verse></h3>



What [is] my strength, that I should hope? and what [is] mine (h) end, that I should prolong my life?



(h) He fears lest he should be brought to inconveniences, if his sorrows should continue.
#BCV:Job 6:13
<h3><verse=Job 6:13>Job 6:13</verse></h3>



[Is] not my (i) help in me? and is wisdom driven quite from me?



(i) Have I not sought to help myself as much as was possible?
#BCV:Job 6:15
<h3><verse=Job 6:15>Job 6:15</verse></h3>



My brethren have dealt deceitfully as a (k) brook, [and] as the stream of brooks they pass away;



(k) He compares friends who do not comfort us in our misery to a brook which in summer when we
need water is dry, in winter is hard frozen and in the time of rain when we have no need overflows
with water.
#BCV:Job 6:19
<h3><verse=Job 6:19>Job 6:19</verse></h3>



The troops of Tema (l) looked, the companies of Sheba waited for them.



(l) They who pass by it to go into the hot countries of Arabia, think to find water there to quench
their thirst but they are deceived.
#BCV:Job 6:21
<h3><verse=Job 6:21>Job 6:21</verse></h3>



For now ye are (m) nothing; ye see [my] casting down, and are afraid.



(m) That is, like this brook which deceives them who think to have water there in their need, as I
looked for consolation from you.
#BCV:Job 6:22
<h3><verse=Job 6:22>Job 6:22</verse></h3>



Did I say, Bring unto me? or, Give a reward for me of your (n) substance?



(n) He touches the worldlings who for need will give part of their goods, and much more these men,
who would not give him comfortable words.
#BCV:Job 6:24
<h3><verse=Job 6:24>Job 6:24</verse></h3>

<page=1090>Teach me, and I will (o) hold my tongue: and cause me to understand wherein I have erred.



(o) Show me where I have erred, and I will confess my sin.
#BCV:Job 6:25
<h3><verse=Job 6:25>Job 6:25</verse></h3>



How (p) forcible are right words! but what doth your arguing reprove?



(p) He who has a good conscience does not shrink at the sharp words or reasonings of others,
unless they are able to persuade him by reason.
#BCV:Job 6:26
<h3><verse=Job 6:26>Job 6:26</verse></h3>



Do ye imagine to reprove (q) words, and the speeches of one that is desperate, [which are] as wind?



(q) Do you object to my words because I would be thought to speak foolishly, and am now in misery?
#BCV:Job 6:28
<h3><verse=Job 6:28>Job 6:28</verse></h3>



Now therefore be content, (r) look upon me; for [it is] evident unto you if I lie.



(r) Consider whether I speak as one who is driven to this impatience through sorrow, or as a
hypocrite as you condemn me.

<h2>Job 7</h2>

#BCV:Job 7:1
<h3><verse=Job 7:1>Job 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=1091>[Is there] not an appointed time to man upon earth? [are not] his days also like the days of an (a)
hireling?



(a) Has not a hired servant some rest and ease? Then in this my continual torment I am worse than a
hireling.
#BCV:Job 7:3
<h3><verse=Job 7:3>Job 7:3</verse></h3>



So am I made to possess (b) months of vanity, and wearisome nights are appointed to me.



(b) My sorrow has continued from month to month, and I have looked for hope in vain.
#BCV:Job 7:5
<h3><verse=Job 7:5>Job 7:5</verse></h3>



My flesh is (c) clothed with worms and clods of dust; my skin is broken, and become loathsome.



(c) This signifies that his disease was rare and most horrible.
#BCV:Job 7:6
<h3><verse=Job 7:6>Job 7:6</verse></h3>



My days are swifter than (d) a weaver's shuttle, and are spent without hope.



(d) Thus he speaks in respect for the brevity of man's life, which passes without hope of returning:
in consideration of which he desires God to have compassion on him.
#BCV:Job 7:9
<h3><verse=Job 7:9>Job 7:9</verse></h3>




(e) [As] the cloud is consumed and vanisheth away: so he that goeth down to the grave shall (f) come
up no [more].



(e) If you behold me in your anger I will not be able to stand in your presence.



(f) Shall no more enjoy this mortal life.
#BCV:Job 7:11
<h3><verse=Job 7:11>Job 7:11</verse></h3>



Therefore I will not (g) refrain my mouth; I will speak in the anguish of my spirit; I will complain in
the bitterness of my soul.



(g) Seeing I can by no other means comfort myself I will declare my grief in words, and thus he
speaks as one overcome with grief of mind.
#BCV:Job 7:12
<h3><verse=Job 7:12>Job 7:12</verse></h3>

<page=1092>[Am] I a sea, (h) or a whale, that thou settest a watch over me?



(h) Am I not a poor wretch? Why do you need to lay so much pain on me?
#BCV:Job 7:14
<h3><verse=Job 7:14>Job 7:14</verse></h3>



Then thou scarest me (i) with dreams, and terrifiest me through visions:



(i) So that I can have no rest, night or day.
#BCV:Job 7:15
<h3><verse=Job 7:15>Job 7:15</verse></h3>



So that my soul (k) chooseth strangling, [and] death rather than my life.



(k) He speaks as one overcome with sorrow, and not of judgment, or of the examination of his faith.
#BCV:Job 7:16
<h3><verse=Job 7:16>Job 7:16</verse></h3>



I loathe [it]; I would not live alway: (l) let me alone; for my days [are] vanity.



(l) Seeing my term of life is so short, let me have some rest and ease.
#BCV:Job 7:17
<h3><verse=Job 7:17>Job 7:17</verse></h3>



What [is] man, that thou (m) shouldest magnify him? and that thou shouldest set thine heart upon
him?



(m) Seeing that man of himself is so vile, why do you give him that honour to contend against him?
Job uses all kinds of persuasion with God, that he might stay his hand.
#BCV:Job 7:20
<h3><verse=Job 7:20>Job 7:20</verse></h3>



I have (n) sinned; what shall I do unto thee, O thou preserver of men? why hast thou set me as a
mark against thee, so that I am a burden to myself ?



(n) After all temptations faith steps forth and leads Job to repentance: yet it was not in such
perfection that he could bridle himself from reasoning with God, because he still tried his faith.
#BCV:Job 7:21
<h3><verse=Job 7:21>Job 7:21</verse></h3>

<page=1093>And why dost thou not pardon my transgression, and take away mine iniquity? for now shall I sleep
in the dust; and thou shalt seek me in the morning, but I [shall] (o) not [be].



(o) That is, I will be dead.

<h2>Job 8</h2>

#BCV:Job 8:18
<h3><verse=Job 8:18>Job 8:18</verse></h3>

<page=1094>If he destroy him from his place, then [it] shall (k) deny him, [saying], I have not seen thee.



(k) That is, so that there remains nothing there to prove whether the tree had grown there or not.
#BCV:Job 8:19
<h3><verse=Job 8:19>Job 8:19</verse></h3>



Behold, this [is] the joy (l) of his way, and out of the earth shall others grow.



(l) To be planted in another place, where it may grow as it pleases.
#BCV:Job 8:21
<h3><verse=Job 8:21>Job 8:21</verse></h3>



Till he fill thy mouth with (m) laughing, and thy lips with rejoicing.



(m) If you are godly, he will give you opportunity to rejoice and if not your affliction will increase.
#BCV:Job 8:2
<h3><verse=Job 8:2>Job 8:2</verse></h3>



How long wilt thou speak these [things]? and [how long shall] the words of thy mouth (a) [be like] a
strong wind?



(a) He declares that their words which would diminish anything from the justice of God, are but as a
puff of wind that vanishes away.
#BCV:Job 8:4
<h3><verse=Job 8:4>Job 8:4</verse></h3>



If thy children have sinned against him, and he have cast them away for their (b) transgression;



(b) That is, has rewarded them according to their iniquity, meaning that Job should be warned by the
example of his children, that he not offend God.
#BCV:Job 8:5
<h3><verse=Job 8:5>Job 8:5</verse></h3>



If thou (c) wouldest seek unto God betimes, and make thy supplication to the Almighty;



(c) That is, if you turn while God calls you to repentance.
#BCV:Job 8:7
<h3><verse=Job 8:7>Job 8:7</verse></h3>



Though thy beginning (d) was small, yet thy latter end should greatly increase.

<page=1095>(d) Though the beginning is not as pleasant as you would like, yet in the end you will have sufficient
opportunity to please yourself.
#BCV:Job 8:8
<h3><verse=Job 8:8>Job 8:8</verse></h3>



For (e) enquire, I pray thee, of the former age, and prepare thyself to the search of their fathers:



(e) He wills Job to examine all antiquity and he will find it true which he here says.
#BCV:Job 8:9
<h3><verse=Job 8:9>Job 8:9</verse></h3>




(For we [are but of] (f) yesterday, and know nothing, because our days upon earth [are] a shadow:)



(f) Meaning, that it is not enough to have the experience of ourselves, but to be confirmed by the
examples of those who went before us.
#BCV:Job 8:11
<h3><verse=Job 8:11>Job 8:11</verse></h3>



Can the rush (g) grow up without mire? can the flag grow without water?



(g) As a rush cannot grow without moisture, so the hypocrite because he does not have faith which
is watered with God's Spirit.
#BCV:Job 8:14
<h3><verse=Job 8:14>Job 8:14</verse></h3>



Whose hope shall be cut off, and whose trust [shall be] a (h) spider's web.



(h) Which is today and tomorrow swept away.
#BCV:Job 8:16
<h3><verse=Job 8:16>Job 8:16</verse></h3>



He [is] (i) green before the sun, and his branch shooteth forth in his garden.



(i) He compares the just to a tree, which although it is moved from one place to another, yet
flourishes: so the affliction of the godly turns to their profit.

<h2>Job 9</h2>

#BCV:Job 9:2
<h3><verse=Job 9:2>Job 9:2</verse></h3>

<page=1096>I know [it is] so of a truth: but how should man be (a) just with God?



(a) Job here answers Eliphaz and Bildad's oration, touching the justice of God, and his innocency,
confessing God to be infinite in justice and man to be nothing in respect.
#BCV:Job 9:3
<h3><verse=Job 9:3>Job 9:3</verse></h3>



If he will contend with him, he cannot answer him one of a (b) thousand.



(b) Of a thousand things, which God could lay to his charge, man cannot answer him one.
#BCV:Job 9:6
<h3><verse=Job 9:6>Job 9:6</verse></h3>



Which (c) shaketh the earth out of her place, and the pillars thereof tremble.



(c) He declares the infirmity of man, by the mighty and incomprehensible power that is in God,
showing what he could do if he would set forth his power.
#BCV:Job 9:9
<h3><verse=Job 9:9>Job 9:9</verse></h3>



Which maketh (d) Arcturus, Orion, and Pleiades, and the chambers of the south.



(d) These are the names of certain stars by which he means that all stars both known and unknown
are at his appointment.
#BCV:Job 9:11
<h3><verse=Job 9:11>Job 9:11</verse></h3>



Lo, he goeth (e) by me, and I see [him] not: he passeth on also, but I perceive him not.



(e) I am not able to comprehend his works, which are common and daily before my eyes, much less
in those things, which are hid and secret.
#BCV:Job 9:12
<h3><verse=Job 9:12>Job 9:12</verse></h3>



Behold, he taketh away, who can hinder him? (f) who will say unto him, What doest thou?



(f) He shows that when God executes his power, he does it justly, as no one can control him.
#BCV:Job 9:13
<h3><verse=Job 9:13>Job 9:13</verse></h3>

<page=1097>[If] God (g) will not withdraw his anger, the proud helpers (h) do stoop under him.



(g) God will not be appeased for anything that man can say for himself for his justification.



(h) That is, all the reasons that men can lay to approve their cause.
#BCV:Job 9:14
<h3><verse=Job 9:14>Job 9:14</verse></h3>



How much less shall I answer him, [and] choose out (i) my words [to reason] with him?



(i) How should I be able to answer him by eloquence? By which he notes his friends, who although
they were eloquent in talk, did not believe in their hearts, that which they spoke.
#BCV:Job 9:15
<h3><verse=Job 9:15>Job 9:15</verse></h3>



Whom, though I were righteous, [yet] would I (k) not answer, [but] I would make supplication to my

<h1>judge.</h1>




(k) Meaning, in his own opinion, signifying that man will sometimes flatter himself to be righteous
which before God is an abomination.
#BCV:Job 9:16
<h3><verse=Job 9:16>Job 9:16</verse></h3>



If I (l) had called, and he had answered me; [yet] would I not believe that he had hearkened unto my
voice.



(l) While I am in pain I cannot break forth into many inconveniences although I still know that God
is just.
#BCV:Job 9:17
<h3><verse=Job 9:17>Job 9:17</verse></h3>



For he breaketh me with a tempest, and multiplieth my wounds (m) without cause.



(m) I am not able to feel my sins so great, as I feel the weight of his plagues; and this he speaks to
condemn his dullness and to justify God.
#BCV:Job 9:19
<h3><verse=Job 9:19>Job 9:19</verse></h3>



If [I speak] of strength, lo, [he is] (n) strong: and if of judgment, who shall set me a time [to plead]?



(n) After he has accused his own weakness, he continues to justify God and his power.
#BCV:Job 9:20
<h3><verse=Job 9:20>Job 9:20</verse></h3>

<page=1098>If I justify myself, mine own mouth shall condemn me: (o) [if I say], I [am] perfect, it shall also
prove me perverse.



(o) If I stood in my own defence yet God would have just cause to condemn me if he examined my
heart and conscience.
#BCV:Job 9:22
<h3><verse=Job 9:22>Job 9:22</verse></h3>



This [is] one [thing], therefore I said [it], He destroyeth the (p) perfect and the wicked.



(p) If God punishes according to his justice, he will destroy them who are counted perfect as well as
them that are wicked.
#BCV:Job 9:23
<h3><verse=Job 9:23>Job 9:23</verse></h3>



If the scourge (q) slay suddenly, he will (r) laugh at the trial of the innocent.



(q) That is, the wicked.



(r) This is spoken according to our apprehension, as though he would say, If God destroyed only the
wicked, (<bcv=Job 5:3>Job 5:3</bcv>), why would he allow the innocent to be so long tormented by them?
#BCV:Job 9:24
<h3><verse=Job 9:24>Job 9:24</verse></h3>



The earth is given into the hand of the wicked: (s) he covereth the faces of the judges thereof; if not,
where, [and] who (t) [is] he?



(s) That they cannot see to do justice.



(t) That can show the contrary?
#BCV:Job 9:27
<h3><verse=Job 9:27>Job 9:27</verse></h3>



If (u) I say, I will forget my complaint, I will leave off my heaviness, and comfort [myself]:



(u) I think not to fall into these afflictions, but my sorrows bring me to these manifold infirmities,
and my conscience condemns me.
#BCV:Job 9:29
<h3><verse=Job 9:29>Job 9:29</verse></h3>



[If] I be wicked, why then (x) labour I in vain?



(x) Why does God not destroy me at once? thus he speaks according to the infirmity of the flesh.
#BCV:Job 9:30
<h3><verse=Job 9:30>Job 9:30</verse></h3>

<page=1099>If I wash (y) myself with snow water, and make my hands never so clean;



(y) Though I seem pure in my own eyes, yet all is but corruption before God.
#BCV:Job 9:31
<h3><verse=Job 9:31>Job 9:31</verse></h3>



Yet shalt thou plunge me in the ditch, and mine own (z) clothes shall abhor me.



(z) Whatever I would use to cover my filthiness with, it would disclose me even more.
#BCV:Job 9:33
<h3><verse=Job 9:33>Job 9:33</verse></h3>



Neither is there any daysman betwixt us, (a) [that] might lay his hand upon us both.



(a) Who might make an accord between God and me, speaking of impatience, and yet confessing
God to be just in punishing him.
#BCV:Job 9:35
<h3><verse=Job 9:35>Job 9:35</verse></h3>



[Then] would I speak, and not fear him; (b) but [it is] not so with me.



(b) Signifying that God's judgments keep him in awe.

<h2>Job 10</h2>

#BCV:Job 10:1
<h3><verse=Job 10:1>Job 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=1100>My soul is (a) weary of my life; I will leave my (b) complaint upon myself; I will speak in the
bitterness of my soul.



(a) I am more like a dead man, than to one that lives.



(b) I will make an ample declaration of my torments, accusing myself and not God.
#BCV:Job 10:2
<h3><verse=Job 10:2>Job 10:2</verse></h3>



I will say unto God, Do not (c) condemn me; shew me wherefore thou contendest with me.



(c) He would not that God would proceed against him by his secret justice, but by the ordinary
means that he punishes others.
#BCV:Job 10:3
<h3><verse=Job 10:3>Job 10:3</verse></h3>



[Is it] (d) good unto thee that thou shouldest oppress, that thou shouldest despise the (e) work of
thine hands, and shine upon the (f) counsel of the wicked?



(d) Is it agreeable to your justice to do me wrong?



(e) Will you be without compassions?



(f) Will you gratify the wicked and condemn me?
#BCV:Job 10:4
<h3><verse=Job 10:4>Job 10:4</verse></h3>



Hast thou eyes of (g) flesh? or seest thou as man seeth?



(g) Do you do this of ignorance.
#BCV:Job 10:5
<h3><verse=Job 10:5>Job 10:5</verse></h3>



[Are] thy days as the (h) days of man? [are] thy years as man's days,



(h) Are you inconstant and changeable as the times, today a friend, tomorrow an enemy?
#BCV:Job 10:7
<h3><verse=Job 10:7>Job 10:7</verse></h3>



Thou knowest that I am not (i) wicked; and [there is] none that can deliver out of thine hand.

<page=1101>(i) By affliction you keep me as in a prison, and restrain me from doing evil, neither can any set me
free.
#BCV:Job 10:8
<h3><verse=Job 10:8>Job 10:8</verse></h3>



Thine (k) hands have made me and fashioned me together round about; yet thou dost destroy me.



(k) In these eight verses following he describes the mercy of God, in the wonderful creation of man:
and on it grounds that God should not show himself rigorous against him.
#BCV:Job 10:9
<h3><verse=Job 10:9>Job 10:9</verse></h3>



Remember, I beseech thee, that thou hast made me as (l) the clay; and wilt thou bring me into dust
again?



(l) As brittle as a pot of clay.
#BCV:Job 10:12
<h3><verse=Job 10:12>Job 10:12</verse></h3>



Thou hast granted me life and (m) favour, and thy (n) visitation hath preserved my spirit.



(m) That is, reason and understanding, and many other gifts, by which man excels all earthly
creatures.



(n) That is, the fatherly care and providence by which you preserved me, and without which I would
perish immediately.
#BCV:Job 10:13
<h3><verse=Job 10:13>Job 10:13</verse></h3>



And these [things] hast thou hid in thine heart: I know (o) that this [is] with thee.



(o) Though I am not fully able to comprehend these things, yet I must confess that it is so.
#BCV:Job 10:15
<h3><verse=Job 10:15>Job 10:15</verse></h3>



If I be wicked, woe unto me; and [if] I be righteous, [yet] will I not (p) lift up my head. [I am] full of
confusion; therefore see thou mine affliction;



(p) I will always walk in fear and humility, knowing that no one is just before you.
#BCV:Job 10:16
<h3><verse=Job 10:16>Job 10:16</verse></h3>



For it increaseth. Thou huntest me as a fierce lion: and again thou shewest thyself (q) marvellous
upon me.

<page=1102>(q) Job being sore assaulted in this battle between the flesh and the spirit, breaks out into these
affections, wishing rather for short days than long pain.
#BCV:Job 10:17
<h3><verse=Job 10:17>Job 10:17</verse></h3>



Thou renewest thy witnesses against me, and increasest thine indignation upon me; (r) changes and
war [are] against me.



(r) That is, diversity of diseases and in great abundance; showing that God has infinite means to
punish man.
#BCV:Job 10:20
<h3><verse=Job 10:20>Job 10:20</verse></h3>



[Are] not my days few? (s) cease [then, and] let me alone, that I may take comfort a little,



(s) He wishes that God would leave off his affliction, considering his great misery and the shortness
of his life.
#BCV:Job 10:21
<h3><verse=Job 10:21>Job 10:21</verse></h3>



Before I go [whence] I shall not (t) return, [even] to the land of darkness and the shadow of death;



(t) He speaks this in the person of a sinner, that is overcome with passions and with the feeling of
God's judgments and therefore cannot apprehend in that state the mercies of God, and the comfort
of the resurrection.
#BCV:Job 10:22
<h3><verse=Job 10:22>Job 10:22</verse></h3>



A land of darkness, as darkness [itself; and] of the shadow of death, without any (u) order, and
[where] the light [is] as darkness.



(u) No distinction between light and darkness but where there is very darkness itself.

<h2>Job 11</h2>

#BCV:Job 11:2
<h3><verse=Job 11:2>Job 11:2</verse></h3>

<page=1103>Should not the multitude of words be answered? and should a man (a) full of talk be justified?



(a) Should he persuade by his great talk that he is just?
#BCV:Job 11:4
<h3><verse=Job 11:4>Job 11:4</verse></h3>



For thou hast said, (b) My doctrine [is] pure, and I am clean in thine eyes.



(b) He charges Job with this, that he should say, that the thing which he spoke was true, and that he
was without sin in the sight of God.
#BCV:Job 11:6
<h3><verse=Job 11:6>Job 11:6</verse></h3>



And that he would shew thee the (c) secrets of wisdom, that [they are] double to that which is!
Know therefore that God exacteth of thee [less] than thine iniquity [deserveth].



(c) Which is not to stand in justifying of yourself: he signifies that man will never be overcome while
he reasons with another, and therefore God must break off the controversy, and stop man's mouth.
#BCV:Job 11:8
<h3><verse=Job 11:8>Job 11:8</verse></h3>



[It is] as high as heaven; what canst thou do? (d) deeper than hell; what canst thou know?



(d) That is, this perfection of God, and if man is not able to comprehend the height of the heavens,
the depth of the earth, the breadth of the sea, which are but creatures, how can he attain to the
perfection of the creator.
#BCV:Job 11:10
<h3><verse=Job 11:10>Job 11:10</verse></h3>



If he cut off, and (e) shut up, or gather together, then who can hinder him?



(e) If God should turn the state of things and establish a new order in nature, who could control
him?
#BCV:Job 11:12
<h3><verse=Job 11:12>Job 11:12</verse></h3>



For vain man would be wise, though man be born [like] a wild (f) ass's colt.



(f) That is, without understanding, so that whatever gifts he has afterward come from God, and not
from nature.
#BCV:Job 11:13
<h3><verse=Job 11:13>Job 11:13</verse></h3>

<page=1104>If thou (g) prepare thine heart, and stretch out thine hands toward him;



(g) If you repent, pray to him.
#BCV:Job 11:14
<h3><verse=Job 11:14>Job 11:14</verse></h3>



If iniquity [be] in thine (h) hand, put it far away, and let not wickedness dwell in thy tabernacles.



(h) Renounce your own evil works and see that they do not offend God, over whom you have
charge.
#BCV:Job 11:15
<h3><verse=Job 11:15>Job 11:15</verse></h3>



For then shalt thou lift up thy (i) face without spot; yea, thou shalt be stedfast, and shalt not fear:



(i) He declares the quietness of conscience and success in all things that they shall have who turn to
God in true repentance.
#BCV:Job 11:20
<h3><verse=Job 11:20>Job 11:20</verse></h3>



But the eyes (k) of the wicked shall fail, and they shall not escape, and their hope [shall be as] the
giving up of the ghost.



(k) He shows that contrary things will come to them who do not repent.

<h2>Job 12</h2>

#BCV:Job 12:2
<h3><verse=Job 12:2>Job 12:2</verse></h3>

<page=1105>No doubt but ye [are] the people, and (a) wisdom shall die with you.



(a) Because you do not feel what you speak, you think the whole stands in words, and so flatter
yourselves as though no one else knew anything, or could know except you.
#BCV:Job 12:4
<h3><verse=Job 12:4>Job 12:4</verse></h3>



I am (b) [as] one mocked of his neighbour, who calleth upon God, and he (c) answereth him: the
just upright [man is] laughed to scorn.



(b) He reproves his friends for two faults: one, that they thought they had better knowledge than
they did: and the other, that instead of true consolation, they derided and despised their friend in his
adversity.



(c) Who being a mocker and a wicked man, thinks that no man is in God's favour but he, because he
has all things that he desires.
#BCV:Job 12:5
<h3><verse=Job 12:5>Job 12:5</verse></h3>




(d) He that is ready to slip with [his] feet [is as] a lamp despised in the thought of him that is at ease.



(d) As the rich do not esteem a light or torch that goes out, so he despised he that falls from
prosperity to adversity.
#BCV:Job 12:7
<h3><verse=Job 12:7>Job 12:7</verse></h3>



But ask now the beasts, (e) and they shall teach thee; and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell thee:



(e) He declares to them that disputed against him, that their wisdom is common to all, and such as
the very brute beasts teach daily.
#BCV:Job 12:11
<h3><verse=Job 12:11>Job 12:11</verse></h3>



Doth not the ear (f) try words? and the mouth taste his meat?



(f) He exhorts them to be wise in judging, and as well to know the right use of their God-given ears,
as well as their mouths.
#BCV:Job 12:12
<h3><verse=Job 12:12>Job 12:12</verse></h3>

<page=1106>With the (g) ancient [is] wisdom; and in length of days understanding.



(g) Though men by age and continuance of time attain wisdom, yet it is not comparable to God's
wisdom, nor able to comprehend his judgments, in which he answers to that which was alleged, (Job
8:8).
#BCV:Job 12:16
<h3><verse=Job 12:16>Job 12:16</verse></h3>



With him [is] strength and wisdom: the deceived and the (h) deceiver [are] his.



(h) He shows that there is nothing done in this world without God's will and ordinance, else he
would not be Almighty.
#BCV:Job 12:18
<h3><verse=Job 12:18>Job 12:18</verse></h3>




(i) He looseth (k) the bond of kings, and girdeth their loins with a girdle.



(i) He takes wisdom from them.



(k) He abates the humour of princes, and brings them into the subjection of others.
#BCV:Job 12:20
<h3><verse=Job 12:20>Job 12:20</verse></h3>



He removeth away the speech of the (l) trusty, and taketh away the understanding of the aged.



(l) He causes their words to have no credit, which is when he will punish sin.
#BCV:Job 12:23
<h3><verse=Job 12:23>Job 12:23</verse></h3>



He (m) increaseth the nations, and destroyeth them: he enlargeth the nations, and straiteneth them
[again].



(m) In this discourse of God's wonderful works, Job shows that whatever is done in this world both
in the order and change of things, is by God's will and appointment, in which he declares that he
thinks well of God, and is able to set forth his power in words as they that reasoned against him
were.

<h2>Job 13</h2>

#BCV:Job 13:3
<h3><verse=Job 13:3>Job 13:3</verse></h3>

<page=1107>Surely I would speak to the Almighty, and I desire (a) to reason with God.



(a) For although he knew that God was just, which was revealed in his ordinary working and another
in his secret counsel, yet he uttered his affection to God, because he was not able to understand the
reason he punished him.
#BCV:Job 13:4
<h3><verse=Job 13:4>Job 13:4</verse></h3>



But ye [are] forgers of lies, ye [are] all (b) physicians of no value.



(b) You do not well apply your medicine to the disease.
#BCV:Job 13:7
<h3><verse=Job 13:7>Job 13:7</verse></h3>



Will ye speak (c) wickedly for God? and talk deceitfully for him?



(c) He condemns their zeal, who did not have knowledge, nor regarded they to comfort him, but
always granted on God's justice, as though it was not evidently seen in Job, unless they had
undertaken the probation of it.
#BCV:Job 13:12
<h3><verse=Job 13:12>Job 13:12</verse></h3>



Your (d) remembrances [are] like unto ashes, your bodies to bodies of clay.



(d) Your fame will come to nothing.
#BCV:Job 13:14
<h3><verse=Job 13:14>Job 13:14</verse></h3>



Wherefore do I (e) take my flesh in my teeth, and put my life in mine hand?



(e) Is not this a revealed sign of my affliction and that I do not complain without cause, seeing that I
am thus tormented as though I should tear my own flesh, and put my life in danger?
#BCV:Job 13:16
<h3><verse=Job 13:16>Job 13:16</verse></h3>



He also [shall be] my salvation: for an (f) hypocrite shall not come before him.



(f) By which he declares that he is not a hypocrite as they charged him.
#BCV:Job 13:18
<h3><verse=Job 13:18>Job 13:18</verse></h3>

<page=1108>Behold now, I have ordered [my] cause; I know that I shall be (g) justified.



(g) That is, cleared and not cut off for my sins, as you think.
#BCV:Job 13:19
<h3><verse=Job 13:19>Job 13:19</verse></h3>



Who [is] he [that] will plead (h) with me? for now, if I hold my tongue, I shall (i) give up the ghost.



(h) To prove that God punishes me for my sins.



(i) If I do not defend my cause, every man will condemn me.
#BCV:Job 13:21
<h3><verse=Job 13:21>Job 13:21</verse></h3>




(k) Withdraw thine hand far from me: and let not thy dread make me afraid.



(k) He shows what these two things are.
#BCV:Job 13:23
<h3><verse=Job 13:23>Job 13:23</verse></h3>



How many [are] (l) mine iniquities and sins? make me to know my transgression and my sin.



(l) His pangs move him to reason with God, not denying that he had sinned: but he desired to
understand what his great sins were that he deserved such rigor, in which he sinned by demanding a
reason from God why he punished him.
#BCV:Job 13:26
<h3><verse=Job 13:26>Job 13:26</verse></h3>



For thou writest bitter things against me, and makest me to possess (m) the iniquities of my youth.



(m) You punish me now for the sins that I committed in my youth.
#BCV:Job 13:27
<h3><verse=Job 13:27>Job 13:27</verse></h3>



Thou puttest my feet also in the (n) stocks, and lookest narrowly unto all my paths; thou settest a
print upon the heels of my feet.



(n) You make me your prisoner, and so press me that I cannot stir hand or foot.

<h2>Job 14</h2>

#BCV:Job 14:1
<h3><verse=Job 14:1>Job 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=1109>Man (a) [that is] born of a woman [is] of few days, and full of trouble.



(a) Taking the opportunity of his adversaries words he describes the state of man's life from his
birth to his death.
#BCV:Job 14:3
<h3><verse=Job 14:3>Job 14:3</verse></h3>



And dost thou open thine eyes upon such an (b) one, and bringest me into judgment with thee?



(b) His meaning is, that seeing that man is so frail a creature, God should not handle him so
extremely, in which Job shows the wickedness of the flesh, when it is not subject to the Spirit.
#BCV:Job 14:6
<h3><verse=Job 14:6>Job 14:6</verse></h3>



Turn from him, that he may rest, till he shall accomplish, (c) as an hireling, his day.



(c) Until the time you have appointed him to die, which he desires as the hireling waits for the end
of his labour to receive his wages.
#BCV:Job 14:10
<h3><verse=Job 14:10>Job 14:10</verse></h3>




(d) But man dieth, and wasteth away: yea, man giveth up the ghost, and where [is] he?



(d) He speaks here not as though he had no hope of immortality but as a man in extreme pain,
when reason is overcome by afflictions and torments.
#BCV:Job 14:13
<h3><verse=Job 14:13>Job 14:13</verse></h3>



O that thou wouldest hide me in the grave, that thou wouldest keep me secret, until thy (e) wrath be
past, that thou wouldest appoint me a set time, and (f) remember me!



(e) By this he declares that the fear of God's judgment was the reason why he desired to die.



(f) That is, relieve my pain and take me to mercy.
#BCV:Job 14:14
<h3><verse=Job 14:14>Job 14:14</verse></h3>



If a man die, shall he live [again]? all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till (g) my change
come.



(g) Meaning, to the day of the resurrection when he would be changed and renewed.
#BCV:Job 14:15
<h3><verse=Job 14:15>Job 14:15</verse></h3>

<page=1110>Thou shalt call, and I will (h) answer thee: thou wilt have a desire to the work of thine hands.



(h) Though I am afflicted in this life, yet in the resurrection I will feel your mercies and answer when
you call me.
#BCV:Job 14:17
<h3><verse=Job 14:17>Job 14:17</verse></h3>



My transgression [is] sealed up in a (i) bag, and thou sewest up mine iniquity.



(i) You lay them all together and do not allow any of my sins to go unpunished.
#BCV:Job 14:18
<h3><verse=Job 14:18>Job 14:18</verse></h3>



And surely the mountain falling cometh to nought, and the (k) rock is removed out of his place.



(k) He murmurs through the impatiency of the flesh against God, as though he used great severity
against him as against the hard rocks, or waters that overflow, so that by this the opportunity of his
hope is taken away.
#BCV:Job 14:22
<h3><verse=Job 14:22>Job 14:22</verse></h3>



But his (l) flesh upon him shall have pain, and his soul within him shall mourn.



(l) Yet while he is in pain and misery.

<h2>Job 15</h2>

#BCV:Job 15:2
<h3><verse=Job 15:2>Job 15:2</verse></h3>

<page=1111>Should a wise man utter (a) vain knowledge, and fill his belly (b) with the east wind?



(a) That is, vain words, and without consolation?



(b) Meaning, with matters that are of no importance, which are forgotten as soon as they are uttered,
as the East wind dries up moisture as soon as it falls.
#BCV:Job 15:4
<h3><verse=Job 15:4>Job 15:4</verse></h3>



Yea, thou castest off (c) fear, and restrainest prayer before God.



(c) He charges Job as though his talk caused men to cast off the fear of God and prayer.
#BCV:Job 15:5
<h3><verse=Job 15:5>Job 15:5</verse></h3>



For thy mouth uttereth thine iniquity, and thou choosest the (d) tongue of the crafty.



(d) You speak as the mockers and contemners of God do.
#BCV:Job 15:7
<h3><verse=Job 15:7>Job 15:7</verse></h3>



[Art] thou the (e) first man [that] was born? or wast thou made before the hills?



(e) That is, the most ancient and so by reason the most wise?
#BCV:Job 15:8
<h3><verse=Job 15:8>Job 15:8</verse></h3>



Hast thou heard the secret of God? and dost thou restrain wisdom (f) to thyself ?



(f) Are you only wise?
#BCV:Job 15:11
<h3><verse=Job 15:11>Job 15:11</verse></h3>



[Are] the consolations of God (g) small with thee? is there any secret thing with thee?



(g) He accuses Job's pride and ingratitude, that will not be comforted by God, but by their counsel.
#BCV:Job 15:12
<h3><verse=Job 15:12>Job 15:12</verse></h3>



Why doth thine heart (h) carry thee away? and what do thy eyes wink at,

<page=1112>(h) Why do you stand in your own conceit?
#BCV:Job 15:14
<h3><verse=Job 15:14>Job 15:14</verse></h3>



What [is] man, that he should be clean? and [he which is] born of a woman, that he should (i) be
righteous?



(i) His purpose is to prove that Job, as an unjust man and a hypocrite, is punished for his sins, as he
did before, (<bcv=Job 4:8>Job 4:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Job 15:16
<h3><verse=Job 15:16>Job 15:16</verse></h3>



How much more abominable and filthy [is] man, which (k) drinketh iniquity like water?



(k) Who has a desire to sin, as he who is thirsty to drink.
#BCV:Job 15:19
<h3><verse=Job 15:19>Job 15:19</verse></h3>



Unto whom alone the earth was (l) given, and no stranger passed among them.



(l) Who by their wisdom so governed, that no stranger invaded them, and so the land seemed to be
given to them alone.
#BCV:Job 15:20
<h3><verse=Job 15:20>Job 15:20</verse></h3>



The wicked man travaileth with pain all [his] days, and the number (m) of years is hidden to the
oppressor.



(m) The cruel man is always in danger of death, and is never quiet in conscience.
#BCV:Job 15:22
<h3><verse=Job 15:22>Job 15:22</verse></h3>



He believeth not that he shall return out of (n) darkness, and he is waited for of the sword.



(n) Out of that misery to which he once fell.
#BCV:Job 15:23
<h3><verse=Job 15:23>Job 15:23</verse></h3>



He wandereth (o) abroad for bread, [saying], Where [is it]? he knoweth that the day of darkness is
ready at his hand.



(o) God not only impoverishes the wicked often, but even in their prosperity he punishes them with
a greediness to gain even more: which is as a beggary.
#BCV:Job 15:24
<h3><verse=Job 15:24>Job 15:24</verse></h3>

#BCV:job 15:24
<h3><verse=job 15:24>job 15:24</verse></h3>



battle.



(p) He shows the weapons God uses against the wicked, who lift up themselves against him, that is,
terror of conscience and outward afflictions.
#BCV:Job 15:27
<h3><verse=Job 15:27>Job 15:27</verse></h3>



Because he covereth his face with (q) his fatness, and maketh collops of fat on [his] flanks.



(q) That is, he was so puffed up with prosperity and abundance for all things, that he forgave God:
noting that Job in his happiness did not have the true fear of God.
#BCV:Job 15:28
<h3><verse=Job 15:28>Job 15:28</verse></h3>



And he dwelleth (r) in desolate cities, [and] in houses which no man inhabiteth, which are ready to
become heaps.



(r) Though he build and repair ruinous places to gain fame, yet God will bring all to nothing, and
turn his great prosperity into extreme misery.
#BCV:Job 15:29
<h3><verse=Job 15:29>Job 15:29</verse></h3>



He shall not be rich, neither shall his substance continue, neither shall he prolong the (s) perfection
thereof upon the earth.



(s) Meaning, that his sumptuous buildings would never come to perfection.
#BCV:Job 15:31
<h3><verse=Job 15:31>Job 15:31</verse></h3>



Let not him that is (t) deceived trust in vanity: for vanity shall be his recompence.



(t) He stands in his own conceit, that he will give no place to good counsel, therefore his own pride
will bring him to destruction.
#BCV:Job 15:33
<h3><verse=Job 15:33>Job 15:33</verse></h3>



He shall shake off his unripe (u) grape as the vine, and shall cast off his flower as the olive.



(u) As one who gathers grapes before they are ripe.
#BCV:Job 15:34
<h3><verse=Job 15:34>Job 15:34</verse></h3>

<page=1114>For the congregation of hypocrites [shall be] desolate, and fire shall consume the tabernacles of (x)
bribery.



(x) Who were built or maintained by bribery.
#BCV:Job 15:35
<h3><verse=Job 15:35>Job 15:35</verse></h3>



They (y) conceive mischief, and bring forth vanity, and their belly prepareth deceit.



(y) Therefore all their vain devises will turn to their own destruction.

<h2>Job 16</h2>

#BCV:Job 16:3
<h3><verse=Job 16:3>Job 16:3</verse></h3>

<page=1115>Shall (a) vain words have an end? or what emboldeneth thee that thou answerest?



(a) Which serve for vain ostentation and for no true comfort.
#BCV:Job 16:4
<h3><verse=Job 16:4>Job 16:4</verse></h3>



I also could speak as ye [do]: if your (c) soul were in my soul's stead, I could heap up words against
you, and (d) shake mine head at you.



(c) I would that you felt what I do.



(d) That is, mock at your misery, as you do at mine.
#BCV:Job 16:5
<h3><verse=Job 16:5>Job 16:5</verse></h3>



[But] I would strengthen you (e) with my mouth, and the moving of my lips should asswage [your
grief].



(e) If this were in my power, yet I would comfort you and not do as you do to me.
#BCV:Job 16:6
<h3><verse=Job 16:6>Job 16:6</verse></h3>



Though I speak, my grief is (f) not asswaged: and [though] I forbear, what am I eased?



(f) If you would say, "Why do you not then comfort yourself ?" he answers that the judgments of
God are more heavy than he is able to assuage either by words or silence.
#BCV:Job 16:7
<h3><verse=Job 16:7>Job 16:7</verse></h3>



But now (g) he hath made me weary: thou hast made desolate all my (h) company.



(g) Meaning, God.



(h) That is, destroyed most of my family.
#BCV:Job 16:8
<h3><verse=Job 16:8>Job 16:8</verse></h3>



And thou hast filled me with (i) wrinkles, [which] is a witness [against me]: and my leanness rising up
in me beareth witness to my face.



(i) In token of sorrow and grief.
#BCV:Job 16:9
<h3><verse=Job 16:9>Job 16:9</verse></h3>


<page=1116>(k) He teareth [me] in his wrath, who hateth me: he gnasheth upon me with his teeth; mine enemy
sharpeneth his eyes upon me.



(k) That is, God by his wrath: and in this diversity of words and high style, he expresses how
grievous the hand of God was on him.
#BCV:Job 16:10
<h3><verse=Job 16:10>Job 16:10</verse></h3>



They have gaped upon me with their mouth; they have smitten me upon the (l) cheek reproachfully;
they have gathered themselves together against me.



(l) That is, has handled me contemptuously: for so slapping the cheek signified, (<bcv=I Ki 22:24>Kg1 22:24</bcv>;<bcv=Mar 14:65> Mar 14:65</bcv>)
#BCV:Job 16:11
<h3><verse=Job 16:11>Job 16:11</verse></h3>



God hath delivered me to the ungodly, and turned me over into the (m) hands of the wicked.



(m) They have led me where they would.
#BCV:Job 16:13
<h3><verse=Job 16:13>Job 16:13</verse></h3>



His (n) archers compass me round about, he cleaveth my reins asunder, and doth not spare; he
poureth out my gall (o) upon the ground.



(n) His manifold afflictions.



(o) I am wounded to the heart.
#BCV:Job 16:15
<h3><verse=Job 16:15>Job 16:15</verse></h3>



I have sewed sackcloth upon my skin, and defiled my (p) horn in the dust.



(p) Meaning, his glory was brought low.
#BCV:Job 16:17
<h3><verse=Job 16:17>Job 16:17</verse></h3>



Not for [any] injustice in (q) mine hands: also my prayer (r) [is] pure.



(q) Signifying that he is not able to understand the cause of this his grievous punishment.



(r) That is, unfeigned and without hypocrisy.
#BCV:Job 16:18
<h3><verse=Job 16:18>Job 16:18</verse></h3>

#BCV:job 16:18
<h3><verse=job 16:18>job 16:18</verse></h3>




(s) Let my sin be known if I am such a sinner as my adversaries accuse me, and let me find no favour.
#BCV:Job 16:19
<h3><verse=Job 16:19>Job 16:19</verse></h3>



Also now, behold, my (t) witness [is] in heaven, and my record [is] on high.



(t) Though man condemn me, yet God is witness of my cause.
#BCV:Job 16:20
<h3><verse=Job 16:20>Job 16:20</verse></h3>



My friends (u) scorn me: [but] mine eye poureth out [tears] unto God.



(u) Use painted words instead of true consolation.
#BCV:Job 16:21
<h3><verse=Job 16:21>Job 16:21</verse></h3>



O that one might plead for a man with God, as a man (x) [pleadeth] for his neighbour!



(x) Thus by his great torments he is carried away, and breaks out into passions, and speaks
unadvisedly, as though God would intreat man more gently, seeing he has only a short time here to
live.

<h2>Job 17</h2>

#BCV:Job 17:2
<h3><verse=Job 17:2>Job 17:2</verse></h3>

<page=1118>[Are there] not (a) mockers with me? and doth not mine eye continue in (b) their provocation?



(a) Instead of comfort, being now at death's door, he had but them that mocked at him, and
discouraged him.
#BCV:Job 17:3
<h3><verse=Job 17:3>Job 17:3</verse></h3>




(c) Lay down now, put me in a surety with thee; who [is] he [that] (d) will strike hands with me?



(c) He reasons with God as a man beside himself, so that his cause might be brought to light.



(d) And answers for you?
#BCV:Job 17:4
<h3><verse=Job 17:4>Job 17:4</verse></h3>



For thou hast hid their heart from (e) understanding: therefore shalt thou not exalt [them].



(e) That these my afflictions are your just judgments, though man does not know the reason.
#BCV:Job 17:5
<h3><verse=Job 17:5>Job 17:5</verse></h3>




(f) He that speaketh flattery to [his] friends, even the eyes of his children shall fail.



(f) He who flatters a man, and only judges him happy in his prosperity, will not himself only but in
his posterity be punished.
#BCV:Job 17:6
<h3><verse=Job 17:6>Job 17:6</verse></h3>



He hath made me also a (g) byword of the people; and aforetime I was as a tabret.



(g) God has made all the world speak of me, because of my afflictions.
#BCV:Job 17:8
<h3><verse=Job 17:8>Job 17:8</verse></h3>



Upright [men] shall be astonied at (i) this, and the innocent shall stir up himself against the hypocrite.



(i) That is, when they see the godly punished: but in the end they will come to understanding and
know what will be the reward of the hypocrite.
#BCV:Job 17:9
<h3><verse=Job 17:9>Job 17:9</verse></h3>

<page=1119>The righteous also shall hold on his (k) way, and he that hath clean hands shall be stronger and
stronger.



(k) That is, will not be discouraged, considering that the godly are punished as well as the wicked.
#BCV:Job 17:10
<h3><verse=Job 17:10>Job 17:10</verse></h3>



But as for (l) you all, do ye return, and come now: for I cannot find [one] wise [man] among you.



(l) Job speaks to the three who came to comfort him.
#BCV:Job 17:12
<h3><verse=Job 17:12>Job 17:12</verse></h3>



They change the (m) night into day: the light [is] short because of darkness.



(m) That is, have brought me sorrow instead of comfort.
#BCV:Job 17:13
<h3><verse=Job 17:13>Job 17:13</verse></h3>



If I wait, (n) the grave [is] mine house: I have made my bed in the darkness.



(n) Though I should hope to come from adversity to prosperity, as your discourse pretends.
#BCV:Job 17:14
<h3><verse=Job 17:14>Job 17:14</verse></h3>



I have said to corruption, Thou [art] my (o) father: to the worm, [Thou art] my mother, and my
sister.



(o) I have no more hope in father, mother, sister, or any worldly thing: for the dust and worms will
be to me instead of them.
#BCV:Job 17:16
<h3><verse=Job 17:16>Job 17:16</verse></h3>




(p) They shall go down to the bars of the pit, when [our] rest together [is] in the dust.



(p) All worldly hope and prosperity fail which you say, are only signs of God's favour but seeing that
these things perish, I set my hope in God and in the life everlasting.

<h2>Job 18</h2>

#BCV:Job 18:2
<h3><verse=Job 18:2>Job 18:2</verse></h3>

<page=1120>How long [will it be ere] (a) ye make an end of words? (b) mark, and afterwards we will speak.



(a) Who count yourselves just as (<bcv=Job 12:4>Job 12:4</bcv>).



(b) Whom you take to be only beasts, as in (<bcv=Job 12:7>Job 12:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Job 18:4
<h3><verse=Job 18:4>Job 18:4</verse></h3>




(c) He teareth himself in his anger: shall the (d) earth be forsaken for thee? and shall the rock be
removed out of his place?



(c) That is, like a madman.



(d) Shall God change the order of nature for your sake, by dealing with you otherwise than he does
with all man?
#BCV:Job 18:5
<h3><verse=Job 18:5>Job 18:5</verse></h3>



Yea, the light of the wicked shall be (e) put out, and the spark of his fire shall not shine.



(e) When the wicked is in his prosperity, then God changes his state: and this is his ordinary working
for their sins.
#BCV:Job 18:8
<h3><verse=Job 18:8>Job 18:8</verse></h3>



For he is cast into a net by his own feet, and he (f) walketh upon a snare.



(f) Meaning, that the wicked are in continual danger.
#BCV:Job 18:12
<h3><verse=Job 18:12>Job 18:12</verse></h3>



His strength shall be (g) hungerbitten, and destruction [shall be] ready at his side.



(g) That which should nourish him will be consumed by famine.
#BCV:Job 18:13
<h3><verse=Job 18:13>Job 18:13</verse></h3>



It shall devour the strength of his skin: [even] the (h) firstborn of death shall devour his strength.



(h) That is, some strong and violent death will consume his strength: or as the Hebrew word
signifies his members or parts.

#BCV:Job 18:14
<h3><verse=Job 18:14>Job 18:14</verse></h3>

<page=1121>His confidence shall be rooted out of his tabernacle, and it shall bring him to the (i) king of terrors.



(i) That is, with great fear.
#BCV:Job 18:15
<h3><verse=Job 18:15>Job 18:15</verse></h3>



It shall dwell in his tabernacle, because [it is] none of his: (l) brimstone shall be scattered upon his
habitation.



(l) Though all the world would favour him, yet God would destroy him and his.
#BCV:Job 18:18
<h3><verse=Job 18:18>Job 18:18</verse></h3>



He shall be driven from (m) light into darkness, and chased out of the world.



(m) He will fall from prosperity to adversity.
#BCV:Job 18:20
<h3><verse=Job 18:20>Job 18:20</verse></h3>



They that come after [him] shall be astonied at his (n) day, as they that went before were affrighted.



(n) When they will see what came to him.

<h2>Job 19</h2>

#BCV:Job 19:3
<h3><verse=Job 19:3>Job 19:3</verse></h3>

<page=1122>These (a) ten times have ye reproached me: ye are not ashamed [that] ye make yourselves strange to
me.

(a) That is, many times, as in (<bcv=Neh 4:12>Neh 4:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Job 19:4
<h3><verse=Job 19:4>Job 19:4</verse></h3>



And be it indeed [that] I have erred, mine error (b) remaineth with myself.



(b) That is, I myself will be punished for it, or you have not yet consulted it.
#BCV:Job 19:6
<h3><verse=Job 19:6>Job 19:6</verse></h3>



Know now that God hath (c) overthrown me, and hath compassed me with his net.



(c) He breaks out again into his passions and declares still that his affliction comes from God
though he is not able to feel the cause in himself.
#BCV:Job 19:8
<h3><verse=Job 19:8>Job 19:8</verse></h3>



He hath fenced up my way that I cannot (d) pass, and he hath set darkness in my paths.



(d) Meaning, out of his afflictions.
#BCV:Job 19:9
<h3><verse=Job 19:9>Job 19:9</verse></h3>



He hath stripped me of my glory, and taken the (e) crown [from] my head.



(e) Meaning, his children, and whatever was dear to him in this world.
#BCV:Job 19:10
<h3><verse=Job 19:10>Job 19:10</verse></h3>



He hath destroyed me on every side, and I am gone: and mine hope hath he removed like (f) a tree.



(f) Which is plucked up, and has no more hope to grow.
#BCV:Job 19:12
<h3><verse=Job 19:12>Job 19:12</verse></h3>



His (g) troops come together, and raise up their way against me, and encamp round about my
tabernacle.

<page=1123>(g) His manifold afflictions.
#BCV:Job 19:15
<h3><verse=Job 19:15>Job 19:15</verse></h3>




(h) They that dwell in mine house, and my maids, count me for a stranger: I am an alien in their sight.



(h) My household servants by all these losses Job shows that touching the flesh he had great
opportunity to be moved.
#BCV:Job 19:17
<h3><verse=Job 19:17>Job 19:17</verse></h3>



My breath is strange to my wife, though I intreated for the children's [sake] of mine (i) own body.



(i) Which were hers and mine.
#BCV:Job 19:20
<h3><verse=Job 19:20>Job 19:20</verse></h3>



My bone (k) cleaveth to my skin and to my flesh, and I am escaped with the skin of my teeth.



(k) Besides these great losses and most cruel unkindness, he was touched in his own person as
follows.
#BCV:Job 19:21
<h3><verse=Job 19:21>Job 19:21</verse></h3>



Have pity upon me, have (m) pity upon me, O ye my friends; for the hand of God hath touched me.



(m) Seeing I have these just causes to complain, condemn me not as a hypocrite, especially you who
should comfort me.
#BCV:Job 19:22
<h3><verse=Job 19:22>Job 19:22</verse></h3>



Why do ye persecute me as (n) God, and are not satisfied with my (o) flesh?



(n) Is it not enough that God punishes me, unless you by reproaching increase my sorrow?



(o) To see my body punished, unless you trouble my mind?
#BCV:Job 19:24
<h3><verse=Job 19:24>Job 19:24</verse></h3>



That they were graven with (p) an iron pen and lead in the rock for ever!



(p) He protests that despite his sore passions his religion is perfect and that he in not a blasphemer
as they judged him.
#BCV:Job 19:25
<h3><verse=Job 19:25>Job 19:25</verse></h3>

#BCV:job 19:25
<h3><verse=job 19:25>job 19:25</verse></h3>




(q) I do not so justify myself before the world, but I know that I will come before the great judge
who will be my deliverer and Saviour.
#BCV:Job 19:26
<h3><verse=Job 19:26>Job 19:26</verse></h3>



And [though] after my skin [worms] destroy this [body], yet (r) in my flesh shall I see God:



(r) In this Job declares plainly that he had a full hope, that both the soul and body would enjoy the
presence of God in the last resurrection.
#BCV:Job 19:28
<h3><verse=Job 19:28>Job 19:28</verse></h3>



But ye should say, Why persecute we him, seeing the root of the (s) matter is found in me?



(s) Though his friends thought that he was only persecuted by God for his sins, yet he declares that
there was a deeper consideration that is, the trial of his faith and patience, and so to be an example
for others.
#BCV:Job 19:29
<h3><verse=Job 19:29>Job 19:29</verse></h3>



Be ye afraid of the sword: for wrath [bringeth] the (t) punishments of the sword, that ye may know
[there is] a judgment.



(t) God will be avenged of this harsh judgment by which you condemned me.

<h2>Job 20</h2>

#BCV:Job 20:3
<h3><verse=Job 20:3>Job 20:3</verse></h3>

<page=1125>I have heard (a) the check of my reproach, and the spirit of my understanding causeth me to answer.



(a) He declares that two things moved him to speak: that is, because Job seemed to touch him, and
because he thought he had knowledge sufficient to confute him.
#BCV:Job 20:6
<h3><verse=Job 20:6>Job 20:6</verse></h3>



Though (b) his excellency mount up to the heavens, and his head reach unto the clouds;



(b) His purpose is to prove Job to be a wicked man, and a hypocrite, because God punished him,
and changed his prosperity into adversity.
#BCV:Job 20:10
<h3><verse=Job 20:10>Job 20:10</verse></h3>



His children shall (c) seek to please the poor, and his hands shall (d) restore their goods.



(c) While the father through ambition and tyranny oppressed the poor, the children through poverty
and misery will seek favour from the poor.



(d) So that the thing which he has taken away by violence will be restored again by force.
#BCV:Job 20:11
<h3><verse=Job 20:11>Job 20:11</verse></h3>



His bones are full [of the sin] of his youth, which (e) shall lie down with him in the dust.



(e) Meaning that he will carry nothing away with him but his sin.
#BCV:Job 20:12
<h3><verse=Job 20:12>Job 20:12</verse></h3>



Though wickedness be (f) sweet in his mouth, [though] he hide it under his tongue;



(f) As poison that is sweet in the mouth brings destruction when it comes into the body: so all vice
at the first is pleasant, but God later turns it to destruction.
#BCV:Job 20:16
<h3><verse=Job 20:16>Job 20:16</verse></h3>



He shall suck the (g) poison of asps: the viper's tongue shall slay him.



(g) He compares ill-gotten goods to the venom of asps, which is a dangerous serpent, noting that
Jobs great riches were not truly come by and therefore God plagues him justly for the same.
#BCV:Job 20:17
<h3><verse=Job 20:17>Job 20:17</verse></h3>

<page=1126>He shall not see the (h) rivers, the floods, the brooks of honey and butter.



(h) Though God gives all other abundance from his blessings yet he will have no part of it.
#BCV:Job 20:18
<h3><verse=Job 20:18>Job 20:18</verse></h3>



That which he laboured for shall he restore, and shall not swallow [it] down: according to [his]
substance [shall] the restitution [be], (i) and he shall not rejoice [therein].



(i) That is these raveners and spoilers of the poor will enjoy their theft but for a time for after God
will take it from them, and cause them to make restitution so that it is only an exchange.
#BCV:Job 20:21
<h3><verse=Job 20:21>Job 20:21</verse></h3>



There shall none of his (k) meat be left; therefore shall no man look for his goods.



(k) He will leave nothing to his posterity.
#BCV:Job 20:22
<h3><verse=Job 20:22>Job 20:22</verse></h3>



In the fulness of his sufficiency he shall be in straits: every hand (l) of the wicked shall come upon
him.



(l) The wicked will never be in rest: for one wicked man will seek to destroy another.
#BCV:Job 20:23
<h3><verse=Job 20:23>Job 20:23</verse></h3>



[When] he is about to fill his belly, [God] shall cast the fury of his wrath upon him, (m) and shall
rain [it] upon him while he is eating.



(m) Some read, upon his flesh, alluding to Job, whose flesh was smitten with a scab.
#BCV:Job 20:25
<h3><verse=Job 20:25>Job 20:25</verse></h3>



It is drawn, and cometh out of the (n) body; yea, the glittering sword cometh out of his gall: terrors
[are] upon him.



(n) Some read, of the quiver.
#BCV:Job 20:26
<h3><verse=Job 20:26>Job 20:26</verse></h3>


<page=1127>(o) All darkness [shall be] hid in his secret places: a fire not (p) blown shall consume him; it shall go
ill with him that is left in his tabernacle.



(o) All fear and sorrow will light on him when he thinks to escape.



(p) That is, fire from heaven, or the fire of God's wrath.
#BCV:Job 20:28
<h3><verse=Job 20:28>Job 20:28</verse></h3>



The (q) increase of his house shall depart, [and his goods] shall flow away in the day of his wrath.



(q) Meaning, the children of the wicked will flow away like rivers and be dispersed in various places.
#BCV:Job 20:29
<h3><verse=Job 20:29>Job 20:29</verse></h3>



This [is] the portion of a wicked man from (r) God, and the heritage appointed unto him by (s) God.



(r) Thus God will plague the wicked.



(s) Against God, thinking to excuse himself, and to escape God's hand.

<h2>Job 21</h2>

#BCV:Job 21:2
<h3><verse=Job 21:2>Job 21:2</verse></h3>

<page=1128>Hear diligently my speech, and let this (a) be your consolations.



(a) Your diligent marking of my words will be to me a great consolation.
#BCV:Job 21:4
<h3><verse=Job 21:4>Job 21:4</verse></h3>



As for me, [is] my complaint to man? and if [it (b) were so], why should not my spirit be troubled?



(b) As though he would say, I do not talk with man but with God, who will not answer me, and
therefore my mind must be troubled.
#BCV:Job 21:5
<h3><verse=Job 21:5>Job 21:5</verse></h3>



Mark me, and be astonished, and lay [your] hand upon [your] (c) mouth.



(c) He charges them as though they were not able to comprehend his feeling of God's judgment,
and exhorts them therefore to silence.
#BCV:Job 21:7
<h3><verse=Job 21:7>Job 21:7</verse></h3>



Wherefore do the wicked (d) live, become old, yea, are mighty in power?



(d) Job proves against his adversaries that God does not punish the wicked immediately, but often
gives them long life and prosperity, so we must not judge God just or unjust by the things that
appear to our eyes.
#BCV:Job 21:11
<h3><verse=Job 21:11>Job 21:11</verse></h3>



They send forth their little ones (e) like a flock, and their children dance.



(e) They have healthy children and in those points he answers to that which Zophar alleged before.
#BCV:Job 21:13
<h3><verse=Job 21:13>Job 21:13</verse></h3>



They spend their days in wealth, and in a moment (f) go down to the grave.



(f) Not being tormented with long sickness.
#BCV:Job 21:14
<h3><verse=Job 21:14>Job 21:14</verse></h3>

<page=1129>Therefore they say unto God, Depart from us; for we desire not the (g) knowledge of thy ways.



(g) They desire nothing more than to be exempt from all subjection that they should bear to God,
thus Job shows his adversaries, that if they reason only by that which is seen by common experience
the wicked who hate God are better dealt withal than they who love him.
#BCV:Job 21:16
<h3><verse=Job 21:16>Job 21:16</verse></h3>



Lo, their good [is] not in their (h) hand: the counsel of the wicked (i) is far from me.



(h) It is not their own, but God only lends it to them.



(i) God keep me from their prosperity.
#BCV:Job 21:20
<h3><verse=Job 21:20>Job 21:20</verse></h3>




(k) His eyes shall see his destruction, and he shall drink of the wrath of the Almighty.



(k) When God recompenses his wickedness, he will know that his prosperity was vanity.
#BCV:Job 21:22
<h3><verse=Job 21:22>Job 21:22</verse></h3>



Shall [any] teach (l) God knowledge? seeing he judgeth those that are high.



(l) Who sends to the wicked prosperity and punishes the godly.
#BCV:Job 21:23
<h3><verse=Job 21:23>Job 21:23</verse></h3>



One (m) dieth in his full strength, being wholly at ease and quiet.



(m) Meaning, the wicked.
#BCV:Job 21:25
<h3><verse=Job 21:25>Job 21:25</verse></h3>



And another (n) dieth in the bitterness of his soul, and never eateth with pleasure.



(n) That is, the godly.
#BCV:Job 21:26
<h3><verse=Job 21:26>Job 21:26</verse></h3>



They shall lie down alike in (o) the dust, and the worms shall cover them.



(o) As concerning their bodies: and this he speaks according to the common judgment.
#BCV:Job 21:28
<h3><verse=Job 21:28>Job 21:28</verse></h3>

#BCV:job 21:28
<h3><verse=job 21:28>job 21:28</verse></h3>




(p) Thus they called Job's house in derision concluding that it was destroyed because he was wicked.
#BCV:Job 21:29
<h3><verse=Job 21:29>Job 21:29</verse></h3>



Have ye (q) not asked them that go by the way? and do ye not know their tokens,



(q) Who through long travailing have experience and tokens of it, that is, that the wicked prosper,
and the godly live in affliction.
#BCV:Job 21:30
<h3><verse=Job 21:30>Job 21:30</verse></h3>



That the wicked is reserved to the day of (r) destruction? they shall be brought forth to the day of
wrath.



(r) Though the wicked flourish here, yet God will punish him in the last day.
#BCV:Job 21:31
<h3><verse=Job 21:31>Job 21:31</verse></h3>



Who shall declare his way (s) to his face? and who shall repay him [what] he hath done?



(s) Though men flatter him, and no one dares to reprove him in this world, yet death is a token that
he will bring him to an account.
#BCV:Job 21:33
<h3><verse=Job 21:33>Job 21:33</verse></h3>



The (t) clods of the valley shall be sweet unto him, and every man shall draw after him, as [there are]
innumerable before him.



(t) He will be glad to lie in a slimy pit, who before could not be content with a royal palace.
#BCV:Job 21:34
<h3><verse=Job 21:34>Job 21:34</verse></h3>



How then comfort (u) ye me in vain, seeing in your answers there remaineth falsehood?



(u) Saying that the just in this world have prosperity and the wicked adversity.

<h2>Job 22</h2>

#BCV:Job 22:2
<h3><verse=Job 22:2>Job 22:2</verse></h3>

<page=1131>Can a man be (a) profitable unto God, as he that is wise may be profitable unto himself ?



(a) Though man was just, yet God could not profit from this his justice; and therefore when he
punished him, he had no regard to his justice, but to his sin.
#BCV:Job 22:4
<h3><verse=Job 22:4>Job 22:4</verse></h3>



Will he reprove thee for fear (b) of thee? will he enter with thee into judgment?



(b) Lest you should reprove or hurt him?
#BCV:Job 22:6
<h3><verse=Job 22:6>Job 22:6</verse></h3>



For thou hast taken a (c) pledge from thy brother for nought, and stripped the naked of their
clothing.



(c) You have been cruel and without charity, and would do nothing for the poor, but for your own
advantage.
#BCV:Job 22:8
<h3><verse=Job 22:8>Job 22:8</verse></h3>



But [as for] the mighty man, he (d) had the earth; and the honourable man dwelt in it.



(d) When you were in power and authority you did not do justice but wrong.
#BCV:Job 22:9
<h3><verse=Job 22:9>Job 22:9</verse></h3>



Thou hast sent widows away empty, and the arms of the (e) fatherless have been broken.



(e) You have not only not shown pity, but oppressed them.
#BCV:Job 22:11
<h3><verse=Job 22:11>Job 22:11</verse></h3>



Or darkness, [that] thou canst not see; and (f) abundance of waters cover thee.



(f) That is, manifold afflictions.
#BCV:Job 22:12
<h3><verse=Job 22:12>Job 22:12</verse></h3>



[Is] not God in the (g) height of heaven? and behold the height of the (h) stars, how high they are!

<page=1132>(g) He accuses Job of impiety and contempt of God, as thought he would say, If you pass not for
men, yet consider the height of God's majesty.



(h) That so much the more by that excellent work you may fear God, and reverence him.
#BCV:Job 22:13
<h3><verse=Job 22:13>Job 22:13</verse></h3>



And thou sayest, How doth God (i) know? can he judge through the dark cloud?



(i) He reproves Job, as though he denied God's providence and that he could not see the things that
were done in this world.
#BCV:Job 22:15
<h3><verse=Job 22:15>Job 22:15</verse></h3>



Hast thou marked the old way (k) which wicked men have trodden?



(k) How God has punished them from the beginning?
#BCV:Job 22:16
<h3><verse=Job 22:16>Job 22:16</verse></h3>



Which were (l) cut down out of time, whose foundation was overflown with a flood:



(l) He proves God's providence by the punishment of the wicked, whom he takes away before they
can bring their wicked purposes to pass.
#BCV:Job 22:18
<h3><verse=Job 22:18>Job 22:18</verse></h3>



Yet he (m) filled their houses with good [things]: but the counsel of the wicked is far from me.



(m) He answers to that which Job had said, (<bcv=Job 21:7>Job 21:7</bcv>) that the wicked have prosperity in this world;
desiring that he might not be a partaker of the like.
#BCV:Job 22:19
<h3><verse=Job 22:19>Job 22:19</verse></h3>



The righteous see [it], and are glad: (n) and the innocent laugh them to scorn.



(n) The just rejoice at the destruction of the wicked for two reasons, first because God shows
himself judge of the world and by this means continues his honour and glory: secondly because
God shows that he had care over his in that he punished their enemies.
#BCV:Job 22:20
<h3><verse=Job 22:20>Job 22:20</verse></h3>



Whereas (o) our substance is not cut down, but the remnant of (p) them the fire consumeth.



(o) That is, the state and preservation of the godly, is hid under God's wings.

<page=1133>(p) Meaning of the wicked.
#BCV:Job 22:21
<h3><verse=Job 22:21>Job 22:21</verse></h3>



Acquaint now thyself (q) with him, and be at peace: thereby good shall come unto thee.



(q) He exhorts Job to repentance, and to return to God.
#BCV:Job 22:23
<h3><verse=Job 22:23>Job 22:23</verse></h3>



If thou return to the Almighty, thou shalt (r) be built up, thou shalt put away iniquity far from thy
tabernacles.



(r) God will restore to you all your substance.
#BCV:Job 22:24
<h3><verse=Job 22:24>Job 22:24</verse></h3>



Then shalt thou lay up gold as (s) dust, and the [gold] of Ophir as the stones of the brooks.



(s) Which will be in abundance like dust.
#BCV:Job 22:28
<h3><verse=Job 22:28>Job 22:28</verse></h3>



Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee: and the (t) light shall shine upon
thy ways.



(t) That is, the favour of God.
#BCV:Job 22:29
<h3><verse=Job 22:29>Job 22:29</verse></h3>




(u) When [men] are cast down, then thou shalt say, [There is] lifting up; and he shall save the humble
person.



(u) God will deliver his when the wicked are destroyed round about them, as in the flood and in
Sodom.
#BCV:Job 22:30
<h3><verse=Job 22:30>Job 22:30</verse></h3>



He shall deliver the (x) island of the innocent: and it is delivered by the pureness of thine hands.



(x) God will deliver a whole country from peril, even for the just man's sake.

<h2>Job 23</h2>

#BCV:Job 23:2
<h3><verse=Job 23:2>Job 23:2</verse></h3>

<page=1134>Even to day [is] my complaint (a) bitter: my stroke is heavier than my groaning.


(a) He shows the just cause of his complaining and concerning that Eliphaz had exhorted him to
return to God, (<bcv=Job 22:21>Job 22:21</bcv>) he declares that he desires nothing more, but it seems that God would not
be found of him.
#BCV:Job 23:6
<h3><verse=Job 23:6>Job 23:6</verse></h3>



Will he (b) plead against me with [his] great power? No; but he would (c) put [strength] in me.



(b) Using his absolute power and saying because I am God, I may do what I will.



(c) Of his mercy he would give me power to answer him.
#BCV:Job 23:7
<h3><verse=Job 23:7>Job 23:7</verse></h3>




(d) There the righteous might dispute with him; so should I be delivered for ever from my judge.



(d) When he of his mercy has given strength to maintain their cause.
#BCV:Job 23:8
<h3><verse=Job 23:8>Job 23:8</verse></h3>




(e) Behold, I go forward, but he [is] not [there]; and backward, but I cannot perceive him:



(e) Meaning, that if he considers God's justice, he is not able to comprehend his judgments on what
side or whatever part he turns himself.
#BCV:Job 23:10
<h3><verse=Job 23:10>Job 23:10</verse></h3>



But he knoweth the (f) way that I take: [when] he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.



(f) God has this preeminence about me, that he knows my way: that is, that I am not able to judge
his work, he shows also his confidence, that God uses him for his profit.
#BCV:Job 23:12
<h3><verse=Job 23:12>Job 23:12</verse></h3>



Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have (g) esteemed the words of his
mouth more than my necessary [food].



(g) His word is more precious to me than the meat with which the body is sustained.
#BCV:Job 23:13
<h3><verse=Job 23:13>Job 23:13</verse></h3>

<page=1135>But he [is] in one [mind], and who can (h) turn him? and [what] his soul desireth, even [that] he
doeth.



(h) Job confesses that at the present he did not feel God's favour and yet was assured that God had
appointed him to a good end.
#BCV:Job 23:14
<h3><verse=Job 23:14>Job 23:14</verse></h3>



For he performeth [the thing that is] appointed for me: and (i) many such [things are] with him.



(i) In many points man is not able to attain to God's judgments.
#BCV:Job 23:16
<h3><verse=Job 23:16>Job 23:16</verse></h3>



For (k) God maketh my heart soft, and the Almighty troubleth me:



(k) That I should not be without fear.
#BCV:Job 23:17
<h3><verse=Job 23:17>Job 23:17</verse></h3>



Because I was not cut off before the (l) darkness, [neither] hath he covered the darkness from my
face.



(l) He shows the cause for his fear, which is, that he being in trouble sees no end, nor yet knows the
cause.

<h2>Job 24</h2>

#BCV:Job 24:1
<h3><verse=Job 24:1>Job 24:1</verse></h3>

<page=1136>Why, seeing times (a) are not hidden from the Almighty, do they that know him not see his (b) days?



(a) Thus Job speaks in his passions, and after the judgment of the flesh: that is, that he does not see
the things that are done at times, nor yet has a peculiar care over all, because he does not punish the
wicked or avenge the godly.



(b) When he punishes the wicked and rewards the good.
#BCV:Job 24:4
<h3><verse=Job 24:4>Job 24:4</verse></h3>



They turn the needy out of the way: the poor of the earth hide themselves (c) together.



(c) And for cruelty and oppression dare not show their faces.
#BCV:Job 24:5
<h3><verse=Job 24:5>Job 24:5</verse></h3>



Behold, [as] wild asses in the desert, go they forth to their work; (d) rising betimes for a prey: the
wilderness (e) [yieldeth] food for them [and] for [their] children.



(d) That is, spares diligence.



(e) He and his live by robbing and murdering.
#BCV:Job 24:6
<h3><verse=Job 24:6>Job 24:6</verse></h3>



They reap [every one] (f) his corn in the field: and they gather the (g) vintage of the wicked.



(f) Meaning the poor man's.



(g) Signifying that one wicked man will not spoil another, but for necessity.
#BCV:Job 24:8
<h3><verse=Job 24:8>Job 24:8</verse></h3>



They are wet with the showers of the mountains, (h) and embrace the rock for want of a shelter.



(h) The poor are driven by the wicked into the rock and holes where they cannot lie dry for the rain.
#BCV:Job 24:9
<h3><verse=Job 24:9>Job 24:9</verse></h3>



They pluck the fatherless (i) from the breast, and take a pledge of (k) the poor.

<page=1137>(i) That is, they so pillage and plunder the poor widow that she cannot sustain herself that she may
be able to nurse her baby.
#BCV:Job 24:11
<h3><verse=Job 24:11>Job 24:11</verse></h3>



[Which] make oil (l) within their walls, [and] tread [their] winepresses, and suffer thirst.



(l) In such places which are appointed for that purpose; meaning, that those who labour for the
wicked, are pined for hunger.
#BCV:Job 24:12
<h3><verse=Job 24:12>Job 24:12</verse></h3>



Men (m) groan from out of the city, and the soul of the wounded crieth out: yet God (n) layeth not
folly [to them].



(m) For the great oppression and extortion.



(n) Cry out and call for vengeance.
#BCV:Job 24:13
<h3><verse=Job 24:13>Job 24:13</verse></h3>



They are of those that rebel against the (p) light; they know not the ways thereof, nor abide in the
paths thereof.



(p) That is, God's word, because they are reproved by it.
#BCV:Job 24:15
<h3><verse=Job 24:15>Job 24:15</verse></h3>



The eye also of the (q) adulterer waiteth for the twilight, saying, No eye shall see me: and disguiseth
[his] face.



(q) By these particular vices and the licence of it, he would prove that God did not punish the
wicked and reward the just.
#BCV:Job 24:18
<h3><verse=Job 24:18>Job 24:18</verse></h3>



He [is] swift as the (r) waters; their (s) portion is cursed in the earth: he beholdeth not the way of the
vineyards.



(r) He flees to the waters for his succour.



(s) They think that all the world is bent against them and dare not go by the highway.
#BCV:Job 24:19
<h3><verse=Job 24:19>Job 24:19</verse></h3>

<page=1138>Drought and heat consume the snow waters: [so doth] the grave [those which] (t) have sinned.


(t) As the dry ground is never full with waters, so will they never cease sinning till they come to the
grave.
#BCV:Job 24:20
<h3><verse=Job 24:20>Job 24:20</verse></h3>




(u) The womb shall forget him; the worm shall feed sweetly on him; he shall be no more
remembered; and wickedness shall be broken as a tree.



(u) Though God tolerates the wicked for a time, yet their end will be vile destruction, and in this
point Job commits to himself and shows his confidence.
#BCV:Job 24:21
<h3><verse=Job 24:21>Job 24:21</verse></h3>



He (x) evil entreateth the barren [that] beareth not: and doeth not good to the widow.



(x) He shows why the wicked will not be lamented, because he did not pity others.
#BCV:Job 24:22
<h3><verse=Job 24:22>Job 24:22</verse></h3>



He draweth also the (y) mighty with his power: he riseth up, and no [man] is sure of life.



(y) He declares that after the wicked have destroyed the weakest, they will do the same to the
stranger, and therefore are justly punished by God's judgments.
#BCV:Job 24:25
<h3><verse=Job 24:25>Job 24:25</verse></h3>



And if [it be] not (z) [so] now, who will make me a liar, and make my speech nothing worth?



(z) That is, contrary to your reasoning no man can give perfect reasons for God's judgments, let me
be reproved.

<h2>Job 25</h2>

#BCV:Job 25:2
<h3><verse=Job 25:2>Job 25:2</verse></h3>


<page=1139>(a) Dominion and fear [are] with him, he maketh peace in his high places.



(a) His purpose is to prove that although God may try and afflict the just, yet soon after he sends
prosperity, and because he did not do so to Job he concludes that he is wicked.
#BCV:Job 25:3
<h3><verse=Job 25:3>Job 25:3</verse></h3>



Is there any number of his armies? (b) and upon whom doth not his light arise?



(b) Who can hide him from his presence?
#BCV:Job 25:4
<h3><verse=Job 25:4>Job 25:4</verse></h3>



How then can man (c) be justified with God? or how can he be clean [that is] born of a woman?



(c) That is, be just in respect to God?
#BCV:Job 25:5
<h3><verse=Job 25:5>Job 25:5</verse></h3>



Behold even to the moon, and it shineth not; yea, (d) the stars are not pure in his sight.



(d) If God shows his power, the moon and stars cannot have the light which is given to them, much
less can man have any excellency but from God.

<h2>Job 26</h2>

#BCV:Job 26:2
<h3><verse=Job 26:2>Job 26:2</verse></h3>


<page=1140>(a) How hast thou helped [him that is] without power? [how] (b) savest thou the arm [that hath] no
strength?



(a) You concluded nothing, for neither did you help me while destitute of all help, nor yet speak
sufficiently on God's behalf, who has no need for your defence.



(b) But you do not apply it to the purpose.
#BCV:Job 26:4
<h3><verse=Job 26:4>Job 26:4</verse></h3>



To whom hast thou uttered words? and whose spirit (c) came from thee?



(c) That is, moves you to speak this?
#BCV:Job 26:5
<h3><verse=Job 26:5>Job 26:5</verse></h3>




(d) Dead [things] are formed from under the waters, and the inhabitants thereof.



(d) Job begins to declare the force of God's power and providence in the mines and metals in the
deep places of the earth.
#BCV:Job 26:6
<h3><verse=Job 26:6>Job 26:6</verse></h3>



Hell [is] (e) naked before him, and (f) destruction hath no covering.



(e) There is nothing hidden in the bottom of the earth but he sees it.



(f) Meaning, the grave in which things putrify.
#BCV:Job 26:7
<h3><verse=Job 26:7>Job 26:7</verse></h3>



He stretcheth out the (g) north over the empty place, [and] hangeth the earth upon nothing.



(g) He causes the whole earth to turn about the North pole.
#BCV:Job 26:10
<h3><verse=Job 26:10>Job 26:10</verse></h3>



He hath (h) compassed the waters with bounds, until the (i) day and night come to an end.



(h) That is, he hid the heavens which are called his throne.



(i) So long as this world endures.
#BCV:Job 26:11
<h3><verse=Job 26:11>Job 26:11</verse></h3>

<page=1141>The (k) pillars of heaven tremble and are astonished at his reproof.



(k) Not that heaven has pillars to uphold it, but he speaks by a similitude as though he would say
heaven itself is not able to abide his reproach.
#BCV:Job 26:13
<h3><verse=Job 26:13>Job 26:13</verse></h3>



By his spirit he hath garnished the heavens; his hand hath formed the crooked (l) serpent.



(l) Which is a figure of stars shaped like a serpent, because of the crookedness.
#BCV:Job 26:14
<h3><verse=Job 26:14>Job 26:14</verse></h3>



Lo, these [are] parts of his ways: but (m) how little a portion is heard of him? but the thunder of his
power who can understand?



(m) If these few things which we see daily with our eyes, declare his great power and providence,
how much more would they appear, if we were to comprehend all his works.

<h2>Job 27</h2>

#BCV:Job 27:2
<h3><verse=Job 27:2>Job 27:2</verse></h3>

<page=1142>[As] God liveth, [who] hath taken away my (a) judgment; and the Almighty, [who] hath vexed my
soul;



(a) He has so sore afflicted me that men cannot judge my uprightness; for they judge only by
outward signs.
#BCV:Job 27:4
<h3><verse=Job 27:4>Job 27:4</verse></h3>




(b) My lips shall not speak wickedness, nor my tongue utter deceit.



(b) However men judge me, yet will I not speak contrary to that which I have said, and so do
wickedly in betraying the truth.
#BCV:Job 27:5
<h3><verse=Job 27:5>Job 27:5</verse></h3>



God forbid that I should (c) justify you: till I die I will not remove mine (d) integrity from me.



(c) Which condemns me as a wicked man, because the hand of God is on me.



(d) I will not confess that God does thus punish me for my sins.
#BCV:Job 27:6
<h3><verse=Job 27:6>Job 27:6</verse></h3>



My righteousness I hold fast, and will not let it go: my heart shall not reproach [me] so long as I (e)
live.



(e) Of my life past.
#BCV:Job 27:8
<h3><verse=Job 27:8>Job 27:8</verse></h3>



For what [is] the (f) hope of the hypocrite, though he hath gained, when God taketh away his soul?



(f) What advantage has the dissembler to gain, seeing he will lose his own soul?
#BCV:Job 27:11
<h3><verse=Job 27:11>Job 27:11</verse></h3>



I will teach you by the hand of (g) God: [that] which [is] with the Almighty will I not conceal.



(g) That is, what God reserves for himself, and of which he gives not knowledge to all.
#BCV:Job 27:12
<h3><verse=Job 27:12>Job 27:12</verse></h3>

#BCV:job 27:12
<h3><verse=job 27:12>job 27:12</verse></h3>




(h) That is, these secret judgments of God and yet do not understand them.



(i) Why do you then maintain this error?
#BCV:Job 27:13
<h3><verse=Job 27:13>Job 27:13</verse></h3>



This [is] the (k) portion of a wicked man with God, and the heritage of oppressors, [which] they
shall receive of the Almighty.



(k) Thus will God order the wicked, and punish him even to his posterity.
#BCV:Job 27:15
<h3><verse=Job 27:15>Job 27:15</verse></h3>



Those that remain of him shall be buried in death: and his widows (l) shall not weep.



(l) No one will lament him.
#BCV:Job 27:18
<h3><verse=Job 27:18>Job 27:18</verse></h3>



He buildeth his house as a (m) moth, and as a booth [that] the keeper maketh.



(m) Which breeds in another man's possessions or garment, but is soon shaken out.
#BCV:Job 27:19
<h3><verse=Job 27:19>Job 27:19</verse></h3>



The rich man shall lie down, but (n) he shall not be gathered: he openeth his eyes, and he [is] not.



(n) He means that the wicked tyrants will not have a quiet death, nor be buried honourably.

<h2>Job 28</h2>

#BCV:Job 28:1
<h3><verse=Job 28:1>Job 28:1</verse></h3>

<page=1144>Surely there is a vein for the silver, (a) and a place for gold [where] they fine [it].



(a) His purpose is to declare that man may attain in this world to various secrets of nature, but man
is never able to comprehend the wisdom of God.
#BCV:Job 28:3
<h3><verse=Job 28:3>Job 28:3</verse></h3>



He setteth an end to darkness, (b) and searcheth out all perfection: the stones of darkness, and the
shadow of death.



(b) There is nothing but it is compassed within certain limits, and has an end, but God's wisdom.
#BCV:Job 28:4
<h3><verse=Job 28:4>Job 28:4</verse></h3>



The flood breaketh out from the (c) inhabitant; [even the waters] (d) forgotten of the foot: they are
dried up, they are gone away from men.



(c) Meaning, him that dwells by it.
#BCV:Job 28:5
<h3><verse=Job 28:5>Job 28:5</verse></h3>



[As for] the earth, out of it cometh (e) bread: and under it is turned up as it were fire.



(e) That is, come and underneath is brimstone or coal, which easily conceives fire.
#BCV:Job 28:6
<h3><verse=Job 28:6>Job 28:6</verse></h3>



The stones of it [are] the place (f) of sapphires: and it hath dust of gold.



(f) He alludes to the mines and secrets of nature, which are under the earth, into which neither souls
nor beasts can enter.
#BCV:Job 28:9
<h3><verse=Job 28:9>Job 28:9</verse></h3>



He putteth forth his hand upon the (g) rock; he overturneth the mountains by the roots.



(g) After he has declared the wisdom of God in the secrets of nature he describes his power.
#BCV:Job 28:12
<h3><verse=Job 28:12>Job 28:12</verse></h3>

<page=1145>But where shall wisdom be found? (h) and where [is] the place of understanding?



(h) Though God's power and wisdom may be understood in earthly things, yet his heavenly wisdom
cannot be attained to.
#BCV:Job 28:13
<h3><verse=Job 28:13>Job 28:13</verse></h3>



Man knoweth not (i) the price thereof; neither is it found in the land of the living.



(i) It is too high a thing for man to attain to in this world.
#BCV:Job 28:15
<h3><verse=Job 28:15>Job 28:15</verse></h3>



It cannot be gotten for (k) gold, neither shall silver be weighed [for] the price thereof.



(k) It can neither be bought for gold nor precious stones, but is only the gift of God.
#BCV:Job 28:18
<h3><verse=Job 28:18>Job 28:18</verse></h3>



No mention shall be made of coral, or of (l) pearls: for the price of wisdom [is] above rubies.



(l) Which was thought to be a king of precious stone.
#BCV:Job 28:21
<h3><verse=Job 28:21>Job 28:21</verse></h3>



Seeing it is hid from the eyes of all living, and kept close from the (m) fowls of the air.



(m) Meaning that there is no natural means by which man can attain heavenly wisdom: which he
means by the souls, that fly high.
#BCV:Job 28:23
<h3><verse=Job 28:23>Job 28:23</verse></h3>



God understandeth the (n) way thereof, and he knoweth the place thereof.



(n) He makes God the only author of this wisdom, and the giver of it.
#BCV:Job 28:28
<h3><verse=Job 28:28>Job 28:28</verse></h3>



And unto man he said, Behold, the (o) fear of the Lord, that [is] wisdom; and to depart from evil [is]
understanding.



(o) He declares that man has as much of this heavenly wisdom as he shows by fearing God and
departing from evil.

<h2>Job 29</h2>

#BCV:Job 29:3
<h3><verse=Job 29:3>Job 29:3</verse></h3>

<page=1146>When his (a) candle shined upon my head, [and when] by his light I walked [through] (b) darkness;


(a) When I felt his favour.



(b) I was free from affliction.
#BCV:Job 29:4
<h3><verse=Job 29:4>Job 29:4</verse></h3>



As I was in the days of my youth, when the (c) secret of God [was] upon my tabernacle;



(c) That is, seemed by evident tokens to be more present with me.
#BCV:Job 29:6
<h3><verse=Job 29:6>Job 29:6</verse></h3>



When I washed my steps (d) with butter, and the rock poured me out rivers of oil;



(d) By these comparisons he declares the great prosperity that he was in, so that he had no
opportunity to be such a sinner as they accused him.
#BCV:Job 29:8
<h3><verse=Job 29:8>Job 29:8</verse></h3>



The young men saw me, and (e) hid themselves: and the aged arose, [and] stood up.



(e) Being ashamed of their lightness and afraid of my gravity.
#BCV:Job 29:9
<h3><verse=Job 29:9>Job 29:9</verse></h3>



The princes refrained talking, and laid [their] hand on their (f) mouth.



(f) Acknowledging my wisdom.
#BCV:Job 29:11
<h3><verse=Job 29:11>Job 29:11</verse></h3>



When the (g) ear heard [me], then it blessed me; and when the eye saw [me], it gave witness to me:



(g) All that heard me, praised me.
#BCV:Job 29:12
<h3><verse=Job 29:12>Job 29:12</verse></h3>



Because I delivered the (i) poor that cried, and the fatherless, and [him that had] none to help him.

<page=1147>(i) Because his adversaries did so much charge him with wickedness, he is compelled to render
account of his life.
#BCV:Job 29:13
<h3><verse=Job 29:13>Job 29:13</verse></h3>




(k) The blessing of him that was ready to perish came upon me: and I caused the widow's heart to
sing for joy.



(k) That is, I helped him who was in distress, and so he had cause to praise me.
#BCV:Job 29:14
<h3><verse=Job 29:14>Job 29:14</verse></h3>



I put on (l) righteousness, and it clothed me: my judgment [was] as a robe and a diadem.



(l) I delighted to do justice, as others did to wear costly apparel.
#BCV:Job 29:18
<h3><verse=Job 29:18>Job 29:18</verse></h3>



Then I said, I shall die in my (m) nest, and I shall multiply [my] days as the sand.



(m) That is, at home in my bed without all trouble and unquietness.
#BCV:Job 29:19
<h3><verse=Job 29:19>Job 29:19</verse></h3>



My root [was] (n) spread out by the waters, and the dew lay all night upon my branch.



(n) My happiness increases.
#BCV:Job 29:22
<h3><verse=Job 29:22>Job 29:22</verse></h3>



After my words they spake not again; and my speech (o) dropped upon them.



(o) That is, was pleasant to them.
#BCV:Job 29:23
<h3><verse=Job 29:23>Job 29:23</verse></h3>



And they waited for me as for the rain; and they opened their mouth wide (p) [as] for the latter rain.



(p) As the dry ground thirsts for the rain.
#BCV:Job 29:24
<h3><verse=Job 29:24>Job 29:24</verse></h3>



[If] I (q) laughed on them, they believed [it] not; and the light of my countenance they (r) cast not
down.

<page=1148>(q) That is, they thought it not to be a rest, or they did not think that I would condescend to them.


(r) They were afraid to offend me and cause me to be angry.
#BCV:Job 29:25
<h3><verse=Job 29:25>Job 29:25</verse></h3>



I chose out (s) their way, and sat chief, and dwelt as a king in the army, as one [that] comforteth the
mourners.



(s) I had them at commandment.

<h2>Job 30</h2>

#BCV:Job 30:1
<h3><verse=Job 30:1>Job 30:1</verse></h3>

<page=1149>But now [they that are] younger than I (a) have me in derision, whose fathers I would have disdained
to have set with the (b) dogs of my flock.



(a) That is, my estate is changed and while before the ancient men were glad to revere me, the young
men now contemn me.



(b) Meaning to be my shepherds or to keep my dogs.
#BCV:Job 30:2
<h3><verse=Job 30:2>Job 30:2</verse></h3>



Yea, whereto [might] the strength of their hands [profit] me, in whom old age was (c) perished?



(c) That is, their fathers died of hunger before they came to age.
#BCV:Job 30:5
<h3><verse=Job 30:5>Job 30:5</verse></h3>



They were (d) driven forth from among [men], (they cried after them as [after] a thief;)



(d) Job shows that those who mocked him in his affliction were like their fathers, wicked and lewd
fellows, such as he here describes.
#BCV:Job 30:9
<h3><verse=Job 30:9>Job 30:9</verse></h3>



And now am I their (e) song, yea, I am their byword.



(e) They make songs of me, and mock my misery.
#BCV:Job 30:11
<h3><verse=Job 30:11>Job 30:11</verse></h3>



Because he hath loosed my (f) cord, and afflicted me, (g) they have also let loose the bridle before
me.




(f) God has taken from me the force, credit, and authority with which I kept them in subjection.



(g) He said that the young men when they saw him, hid themselves as in (<bcv=Job 29:8>Job 29:8</bcv>), and now in his
misery they were impudent and licentious.
#BCV:Job 30:12
<h3><verse=Job 30:12>Job 30:12</verse></h3>



Upon [my] right [hand] rise the youth; they push away my feet, and they raise up against me the (h)
ways of their destruction.

<page=1150>(h) That is, they sought by all means how they might destroy me.
#BCV:Job 30:13
<h3><verse=Job 30:13>Job 30:13</verse></h3>



They mar my path, they set forward my calamity, they have no (i) helper.



(i) They need no one to help them.
#BCV:Job 30:14
<h3><verse=Job 30:14>Job 30:14</verse></h3>



They came [upon me] as a wide breaking in [of waters]: in the (k) desolation they rolled themselves
[upon me].



(k) By my calamity they took an opportunity against me.
#BCV:Job 30:16
<h3><verse=Job 30:16>Job 30:16</verse></h3>



And now my soul is (l) poured out upon me; the days of affliction have taken hold upon me.



(l) My life fails me, and I am as half dead.
#BCV:Job 30:17
<h3><verse=Job 30:17>Job 30:17</verse></h3>




(m) My bones are pierced in me in the night season: and my sinews take no rest.



(m) Meaning sorrow.
#BCV:Job 30:19
<h3><verse=Job 30:19>Job 30:19</verse></h3>




(n) He hath cast me into the mire, and I am become like dust and ashes.



(n) That is, God has brought me into contempt.
#BCV:Job 30:21
<h3><verse=Job 30:21>Job 30:21</verse></h3>



Thou art become (o) cruel to me: with thy strong hand thou opposest thyself against me.



(o) He does not speak this way to accuse God, but to declare the vehemency of his affliction, by
which he was carried beside himself.
#BCV:Job 30:22
<h3><verse=Job 30:22>Job 30:22</verse></h3>



Thou liftest me up to the (p) wind; thou causest me to ride [upon it], and dissolvest my substance.

<page=1151>(p) He compares his afflictions to a tempest or whirlwind.
#BCV:Job 30:24
<h3><verse=Job 30:24>Job 30:24</verse></h3>



Howbeit he will not stretch out [his] hand (q) to the grave, though they cry in his destruction.



(q) No one can deliver me from there, though they lament my death.
#BCV:Job 30:26
<h3><verse=Job 30:26>Job 30:26</verse></h3>



When I looked for good, then (r) evil came [unto me]: and when I waited for light, there came
darkness.



(r) Instead of comforting they mocked me.
#BCV:Job 30:28
<h3><verse=Job 30:28>Job 30:28</verse></h3>



I went mourning (s) without the sun: I stood up, (t) [and] I cried in the congregation.



(s) Not delighting in any worldly thing, no not so much as in the use of the sun.



(t) Lamenting them that were in affliction and moving others to pity them.
#BCV:Job 30:29
<h3><verse=Job 30:29>Job 30:29</verse></h3>



I am a brother to (u) dragons, and a companion to owls.



(u) I am like the wild beasts that desire solitary places.
#BCV:Job 30:30
<h3><verse=Job 30:30>Job 30:30</verse></h3>



My skin is black upon me, and my bones are burned with (x) heat.



(x) With the heat of affliction.

<h2>Job 31</h2>

#BCV:Job 31:1
<h3><verse=Job 31:1>Job 31:1</verse></h3>

<page=1152>I made a covenant with mine (a) eyes; why then should I think upon (b) a maid?



(a) I kept my eyes from all wanton looks.



(b) Would not God then have punished me?
#BCV:Job 31:3
<h3><verse=Job 31:3>Job 31:3</verse></h3>



[Is] not destruction to the wicked? and a strange [punishment] to (c) the workers of iniquity?



(c) Job declares that the fear of God was a bridle to stay him from all wickedness.
#BCV:Job 31:6
<h3><verse=Job 31:6>Job 31:6</verse></h3>



Let me be weighed in an even balance, that God may know mine (d) integrity.



(d) He shows what his uprightness stands in, in as much as he was blameless before men and did not
sin against the second table.
#BCV:Job 31:7
<h3><verse=Job 31:7>Job 31:7</verse></h3>



If my step hath turned out of the way, and mine heart (e) walked after mine eyes, and if any blot
hath cleaved to mine hands;



(e) That is, has accomplished the lust of my eyes.
#BCV:Job 31:8
<h3><verse=Job 31:8>Job 31:8</verse></h3>



[Then] let me sow, and let another (f) eat; yea, let my offspring be rooted out.



(f) According to the curse of the law, (<bcv=Deu 28:33>Deu 28:33</bcv>).
#BCV:Job 31:10
<h3><verse=Job 31:10>Job 31:10</verse></h3>



[Then] let my wife (g) grind unto another, and let others bow down upon her.



(g) Let her be made a slave.
#BCV:Job 31:12
<h3><verse=Job 31:12>Job 31:12</verse></h3>



For it [is] a fire [that] consumeth (h) to destruction, and would root out all mine increase.

<page=1153>(h) He shows that although man neglects the punishment of adultery, yet the wrath of God will
never cease till such are destroyed.
#BCV:Job 31:13
<h3><verse=Job 31:13>Job 31:13</verse></h3>



If I did despise the cause of my manservant or of my maidservant, when they (i) contended with
me;



(i) When they thought themselves evil intreated by me.
#BCV:Job 31:14
<h3><verse=Job 31:14>Job 31:14</verse></h3>



What then shall I do when (k) God riseth up? and when he visiteth, what shall I answer him?



(k) If I had oppressed others, how would I have escaped God's judgment.
#BCV:Job 31:15
<h3><verse=Job 31:15>Job 31:15</verse></h3>



Did not he that made me in the womb make (l) him? and did not one fashion us in the womb?



(l) He was moved to show pity to servants, because they were God's creatures as he was.
#BCV:Job 31:16
<h3><verse=Job 31:16>Job 31:16</verse></h3>



If I have withheld the poor from [their] desire, or have caused the eyes of the widow (m) to fail;



(m) By long waiting for her request.
#BCV:Job 31:18
<h3><verse=Job 31:18>Job 31:18</verse></h3>




(For from my youth he was brought up with me, (n) as [with] a father, and I have guided her from
my mother's womb;)



(n) He nourished the fatherless, and maintained the widows cause.
#BCV:Job 31:21
<h3><verse=Job 31:21>Job 31:21</verse></h3>



If I have lifted (o) up my hand against the fatherless, when I saw my help in the gate:



(o) To oppress him and to do him harm.
#BCV:Job 31:22
<h3><verse=Job 31:22>Job 31:22</verse></h3>



[Then] let mine (p) arm fall from my shoulder blade, and mine arm be broken from the bone.

<page=1154>(p) Let me rot in pieces.
#BCV:Job 31:23
<h3><verse=Job 31:23>Job 31:23</verse></h3>



For destruction [from] God [was] a (q) terror to me, and by reason of his highness I could not
endure.



(q) I did not refrain from sin for fear of men, but because I feared God.
#BCV:Job 31:26
<h3><verse=Job 31:26>Job 31:26</verse></h3>



If I beheld the (r) sun when it shined, or the moon walking [in] brightness;



(r) If I was proud of my worldly prosperity and happiness, which is meant by the shining of the sun,
and brightness of the moon.
#BCV:Job 31:27
<h3><verse=Job 31:27>Job 31:27</verse></h3>



And my heart hath been secretly enticed, or my mouth hath kissed my (s) hand:



(s) If my own doings delighted me.
#BCV:Job 31:28
<h3><verse=Job 31:28>Job 31:28</verse></h3>



This also [were] an iniquity [to be punished by] the judge: for I should have denied the God [that is]



(t) above.



(t) By putting confidence in anything but in him alone.
#BCV:Job 31:31
<h3><verse=Job 31:31>Job 31:31</verse></h3>



If the men of my (u) tabernacle said not, Oh that we had of his flesh! we cannot be satisfied.



(u) My servants moved me to be avenged of my enemy, yet I never wished him harm.
#BCV:Job 31:33
<h3><verse=Job 31:33>Job 31:33</verse></h3>



If I covered (x) my transgressions as Adam, by hiding mine iniquity in my bosom:



(x) Not confessed it freely, by which it is evident that he justified himself before men, and not
before God.
#BCV:Job 31:34
<h3><verse=Job 31:34>Job 31:34</verse></h3>

<page=1155>Did I fear a great multitude, or did the contempt of families (y) terrify me, that I kept (z) silence,
[and] went not out of the door?



(y) That is, I reverenced the most weak and contemned and was afraid to offend them.



(z) I suffered them to speak evil of me, and went not out of my house to avenge it.
#BCV:Job 31:35
<h3><verse=Job 31:35>Job 31:35</verse></h3>



Oh that one would hear me! behold, my (a) desire [is, that] the Almighty would answer me, and [that]
mine adversary had written a book.



(a) This is a sufficient token of my righteousness, that God is my witness and will justify my cause.
#BCV:Job 31:36
<h3><verse=Job 31:36>Job 31:36</verse></h3>



Surely I would take it upon my shoulder, [and] bind it [as] a (b) crown to me.



(b) Should not this book of his accusations be a praise and commendation to me?
#BCV:Job 31:37
<h3><verse=Job 31:37>Job 31:37</verse></h3>



I would declare unto him the number of my steps; as a (c) prince would I go near unto him.



(c) I will make him account of all my life, without fear.
#BCV:Job 31:38
<h3><verse=Job 31:38>Job 31:38</verse></h3>



If my land (d) cry against me, or that the furrows likewise thereof complain;



(d) As though I had withheld their wages that laboured in it.
#BCV:Job 31:39
<h3><verse=Job 31:39>Job 31:39</verse></h3>



If I have eaten the fruits thereof without money, or have caused (e) the owners thereof to lose their
life:



(e) Meaning, that he was not a briber or extortioner.
#BCV:Job 31:40
<h3><verse=Job 31:40>Job 31:40</verse></h3>



Let thistles grow instead of wheat, and cockle instead of barley. The (f) words of Job are ended.



(f) That is, the talk which he had with his three friends.

<h2>Job 32</h2>

#BCV:Job 32:2
<h3><verse=Job 32:2>Job 32:2</verse></h3>

<page=1156>Then was kindled the wrath of Elihu the son of Barachel the (a) Buzite, of the kindred of (b) Ram:
against Job was his wrath kindled, because he justified himself (c) rather than God.



(a) Which came from Buz, the son of Nahor, Abraham's brother.



(b) Or, as the Chaldee translation reads, Abram.



(c) By making himself innocent, and by charging God of rigour.
#BCV:Job 32:4
<h3><verse=Job 32:4>Job 32:4</verse></h3>



Now Elihu had waited till Job had spoken, because (d) they [were] elder than he.



(d) That is, the three mentioned before.
#BCV:Job 32:7
<h3><verse=Job 32:7>Job 32:7</verse></h3>



I said, Days (e) should speak, and multitude of years should teach wisdom.



(e) Meaning, the ancient, who have experience.
#BCV:Job 32:8
<h3><verse=Job 32:8>Job 32:8</verse></h3>



But [there is] a spirit in man: (f) and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding.



(f) It is a special gift of God that man has understanding and comes neither from nature nor by age.
#BCV:Job 32:11
<h3><verse=Job 32:11>Job 32:11</verse></h3>



Behold, I waited for your words; I gave ear to your reasons, whilst ye searched out (g) what to say.



(g) To prove that Job's affliction came for his sins.
#BCV:Job 32:13
<h3><verse=Job 32:13>Job 32:13</verse></h3>



Lest ye should say, We have (h) found out wisdom: God thrusteth him down, not man.



(h) Flatter yourselves as though you had overcome him.
#BCV:Job 32:14
<h3><verse=Job 32:14>Job 32:14</verse></h3>

<page=1157>Now (i) he hath not directed [his] words against me: neither will I answer (k) him with your speeches.



(i) That is, Job.



(k) He uses almost the same arguments but without taunting and reproaches.
#BCV:Job 32:18
<h3><verse=Job 32:18>Job 32:18</verse></h3>



For I am full of (l) matter, the spirit within me constraineth me.



(l) I have conceived in my mind a great store of reasons.
#BCV:Job 32:21
<h3><verse=Job 32:21>Job 32:21</verse></h3>



Let me not, I pray you, accept any man's person, (m) neither let me give flattering titles unto man.



(m) I will neither have regard for riches, credit, nor authority but will speak the very truth.
#BCV:Job 32:22
<h3><verse=Job 32:22>Job 32:22</verse></h3>



For I know not to give flattering (n) titles; [in so doing] my maker would soon take me away.



(n) The Hebrew word signifies to change the name as to call a fool a wise man: meaning, that he
would not cloak the truth to flatter men.

<h2>Job 33</h2>

#BCV:Job 33:9
<h3><verse=Job 33:9>Job 33:9</verse></h3>

<page=1158>I am (d) clean without transgression, I [am] innocent; neither [is there] iniquity in me.



(d) He repeats Job's words, by which he protested his innocency in various places, but especially in
the 13th, 16th and 30th chapters.
#BCV:Job 33:13
<h3><verse=Job 33:13>Job 33:13</verse></h3>



Why dost thou strive against him? for he giveth not (e) account of any of his matters.



(e) The cause of his judgments is not always declared to man.
#BCV:Job 33:14
<h3><verse=Job 33:14>Job 33:14</verse></h3>



For God speaketh (f) once, yea twice, [yet man] perceiveth it not.



(f) Though God by various examples of his judgments speak to man, yet the reason for it is not
known, yea and though God should speak yet is he not understood.
#BCV:Job 33:15
<h3><verse=Job 33:15>Job 33:15</verse></h3>



In a dream, in a (g) vision of the night, when deep sleep falleth upon men, in slumberings upon the
bed;



(g) God, he says, speaks commonly, either by visions to teach us the cause of his judgments, of else
by affliction or by his messenger.
#BCV:Job 33:16
<h3><verse=Job 33:16>Job 33:16</verse></h3>



Then he openeth the ears of men, and (h) sealeth their instruction,



(h) That is, determined to send on them.
#BCV:Job 33:17
<h3><verse=Job 33:17>Job 33:17</verse></h3>



That he may withdraw man [from his] purpose, and hide (i) pride from man.



(i) He shows for why God sends afflictions: to beat down man's pride, and to turn from evil.
#BCV:Job 33:20
<h3><verse=Job 33:20>Job 33:20</verse></h3>

<page=1159>So that his (k) life abhorreth bread, and his soul dainty meat.



(k) That is, his painful and miserable life.
#BCV:Job 33:22
<h3><verse=Job 33:22>Job 33:22</verse></h3>



Yea, his soul draweth near unto the grave, and his life (l) to the destroyers.



(l) To them that will bury him.
#BCV:Job 33:23
<h3><verse=Job 33:23>Job 33:23</verse></h3>



If there be a (m) messenger with him, an interpreter, one among a thousand, (n) to shew unto man
his uprightness:



(m) A man sent from God to declare his will.



(n) A singular man, and as one chosen out of a thousand, who is able to declare the great mercies of
God to sinners: and in which man's righteousness stands, which is through the justice of Jesus
Christ.
#BCV:Job 33:24
<h3><verse=Job 33:24>Job 33:24</verse></h3>



Then he is (o) gracious unto him, and saith, (p) Deliver him from going down to the pit: I have
found a ransom.



(o) He shows that it is a sure token of God's mercy toward sinners, when he causes his word to be
preached to them.



(p) That is, the minister will by the preaching of the word pronounce to him the forgiveness of his
sins.
#BCV:Job 33:25
<h3><verse=Job 33:25>Job 33:25</verse></h3>



His flesh shall be (q) fresher than a child's: he shall return to the days of his youth:



(q) He will feel God's favour and rejoice; declaring by this in which stands the true joy of the faithful,
and that God will restore him to health, which is a token of his blessing.
#BCV:Job 33:26
<h3><verse=Job 33:26>Job 33:26</verse></h3>



He shall pray unto God, and he will be favourable unto him: and he shall see his face with joy: for he
will render unto man his (r) righteousness.



(r) God will forgive his sins, and accept him as just.
#BCV:Job 33:27
<h3><verse=Job 33:27>Job 33:27</verse></h3>

<page=1160>He looketh upon men, and [if any] say, I have sinned, and (s) perverted [that which was] right, and it
profited (t) me not;



(s) That is, done wickedly.



(t) But my sins have been the cause of God's wrath toward me.
#BCV:Job 33:28
<h3><verse=Job 33:28>Job 33:28</verse></h3>




(u) He will deliver his soul from going into the pit, and his life shall see the light.



(u) God will forgive the penitent sinner.
#BCV:Job 33:29
<h3><verse=Job 33:29>Job 33:29</verse></h3>



Lo, all these [things] worketh God (x) oftentimes with man,



(x) Meaning, as often as a sinner repents.
#BCV:Job 33:32
<h3><verse=Job 33:32>Job 33:32</verse></h3>



If thou hast any (y) thing to say, answer me: speak, for I desire to (z) justify thee.



(y) If you doubt anything, or see opportunity to speak against it.



(z) That is, to show you, in which mans justification consists.
#BCV:Job 33:4
<h3><verse=Job 33:4>Job 33:4</verse></h3>



The (a) Spirit of God hath made me, and the breath of the Almighty hath given me life.



(a) I confess the power of God, and am one of his, therefore you should hear me.
#BCV:Job 33:6
<h3><verse=Job 33:6>Job 33:6</verse></h3>



Behold, I [am] according to thy wish in (b) God's stead: I also am formed out of the clay.



(b) Because Job had wished to dispute his cause with God, (<bcv=Job 16:21>Job 16:21</bcv>) so that he might do it without
fear, Elihu says, he will reason in God's stead, whom he does not need to fear.
#BCV:Job 33:7
<h3><verse=Job 33:7>Job 33:7</verse></h3>

<page=1161>Behold, my terror shall not make thee afraid, neither shall my hand (c) be heavy upon thee.



(c) I will not handle you so roughly as these others have done.

<h2>Job 34</h2>

#BCV:Job 34:2
<h3><verse=Job 34:2>Job 34:2</verse></h3>

<page=1162>Hear my words, O ye (a) wise [men]; and give ear unto me, ye that have knowledge.



(a) Which are esteemed wise by the world.
#BCV:Job 34:4
<h3><verse=Job 34:4>Job 34:4</verse></h3>



Let us choose to us (b) judgment: let us know among ourselves what [is] good.



(b) Let us examine the matter uprightly.
#BCV:Job 34:5
<h3><verse=Job 34:5>Job 34:5</verse></h3>



For Job hath said, I am righteous: and God hath taken (c) away my judgment.



(c) That is, has afflicted me without measure.
#BCV:Job 34:6
<h3><verse=Job 34:6>Job 34:6</verse></h3>



Should I lie against my (d) right? my wound [is] (e) incurable without transgression.



(d) Should I say, I am wicked, being an innocent?



(e) I am more punished, than my sin deserves.
#BCV:Job 34:7
<h3><verse=Job 34:7>Job 34:7</verse></h3>



What man [is] like Job, [who] drinketh up (f) scorning like water?



(f) Which is compelled to receive your reproach and scorns of many for his foolish words.
#BCV:Job 34:8
<h3><verse=Job 34:8>Job 34:8</verse></h3>



Which goeth in (g) company with the workers of iniquity, and walketh with wicked men.



(g) Meaning that Job was like the wicked, because he seemed not to glorify God and submit himself
to his judgments.
#BCV:Job 34:9
<h3><verse=Job 34:9>Job 34:9</verse></h3>



For he hath said, (h) It profiteth a man nothing that he should (i) delight himself with God.

<page=1163>(h) He wrests Job's words who said that God's children are often punished in this world, and the
wicked go free.



(i) That is, live godly, (<bcv=Gen 5:22>Gen 5:22</bcv>).
#BCV:Job 34:14
<h3><verse=Job 34:14>Job 34:14</verse></h3>



If (k) he set his heart upon man, [if] he gather unto himself his spirit (l) and his breath;



(k) To destroy him.



(l) The breath of life which he gave man.
#BCV:Job 34:17
<h3><verse=Job 34:17>Job 34:17</verse></h3>



Shall even he that hateth right (m) govern? and wilt thou condemn him that is most just?



(m) If God were not just, how could be govern the world?
#BCV:Job 34:18
<h3><verse=Job 34:18>Job 34:18</verse></h3>



[Is it fit] to say to a king, [Thou art] (n) wicked? [and] to princes, [Ye are] ungodly?



(n) If man by nature fears to speak evil of such as have power, then they should be much more
afraid to speak evil of God.
#BCV:Job 34:20
<h3><verse=Job 34:20>Job 34:20</verse></h3>



In a moment shall they die, (o) and the people shall be troubled at midnight, (p) and pass away: and
the mighty shall be taken away without hand.



(o) When they look not for it.



(p) The messengers of visitation that God will send.
#BCV:Job 34:23
<h3><verse=Job 34:23>Job 34:23</verse></h3>



For he will not lay upon man more [than right]; that he should (q) enter into judgment with God.



(q) God does not afflict man above measure so that he should have opportunity to contend with
him.
#BCV:Job 34:24
<h3><verse=Job 34:24>Job 34:24</verse></h3>



He shall break in pieces mighty men without (r) number, and set others in their stead.

<page=1164>(r) For all his creatures are at hand to serve him, so that he needs not to seek for any other army.
#BCV:Job 34:25
<h3><verse=Job 34:25>Job 34:25</verse></h3>



Therefore he knoweth their (s) works, and he overturneth [them] in the (t) night, so that they are
destroyed.



(s) Make it known that they are wicked.



(t) Declare the things that were hid.
#BCV:Job 34:26
<h3><verse=Job 34:26>Job 34:26</verse></h3>



He striketh them as wicked men in the open sight of (u) others;



(u) Meaning, openly in the sight of all men.
#BCV:Job 34:28
<h3><verse=Job 34:28>Job 34:28</verse></h3>



So that they cause the cry of the poor to (x) come unto him, and he heareth the cry of the afflicted.



(x) By their cruelty and extortion.
#BCV:Job 34:30
<h3><verse=Job 34:30>Job 34:30</verse></h3>



That the (y) hypocrite reign not, lest the people be ensnared.



(y) When tyrants sit in the throne of justice which under pretence of executing justice are hypocrites
and oppress the people, it is a sign that God has drawn back his countenance of favour from that
place.
#BCV:Job 34:31
<h3><verse=Job 34:31>Job 34:31</verse></h3>



Surely it is meet (z) to be said unto God, I have borne [chastisement], I will not offend [any more]:



(z) It only belongs to God to moderate his corrections, and not to man.
#BCV:Job 34:32
<h3><verse=Job 34:32>Job 34:32</verse></h3>




(a) [That which] I see not teach thou me: if I have done iniquity, I will do no more.



(a) Thus Elihu speaks in the person of God, as it were mocking Job, because he would be wiser than
God.
#BCV:Job 34:33
<h3><verse=Job 34:33>Job 34:33</verse></h3>

#BCV:job 34:33
<h3><verse=job 34:33>job 34:33</verse></h3>



thou choose; and not I: therefore speak what thou knowest.



(b) Will God use your counsel in doing his works?



(c) Thus he speaks in the person of God, as though Job should chose and refuse affliction at his
pleasure.
#BCV:Job 34:36
<h3><verse=Job 34:36>Job 34:36</verse></h3>



My desire [is that] Job may be (d) tried unto the end because of [his] answers for wicked men.



(d) That he may speak as much as he can, that we may answer him and all the wicked that will use
such arguments.
#BCV:Job 34:37
<h3><verse=Job 34:37>Job 34:37</verse></h3>



For he (e) addeth rebellion unto his sin, he clappeth [his hands] among us, and multiplieth his words
against God.



(e) He stands stubbornly to the maintenance of his cause.

<h2>Job 35</h2>

#BCV:Job 35:2
<h3><verse=Job 35:2>Job 35:2</verse></h3>

<page=1166>Thinkest thou this to be right, [that] thou saidst, My (a) righteousness [is] more than God's?



(a) Job never spoke these words: but because he maintained his innocency, it seemed as though he
would say, that God tormented him without just cause.
#BCV:Job 35:4
<h3><verse=Job 35:4>Job 35:4</verse></h3>



I will answer thee, and thy (b) companions with thee.



(b) Such as are in the same error.
#BCV:Job 35:5
<h3><verse=Job 35:5>Job 35:5</verse></h3>



Look unto the heavens, and see; and behold the (c) clouds [which] are higher than thou.



(c) If you cannot control the clouds, will you presume to instruct God?
#BCV:Job 35:6
<h3><verse=Job 35:6>Job 35:6</verse></h3>



If thou sinnest, what doest thou (d) against him? or [if] thy transgressions be multiplied, what doest
thou unto him?



(d) Neither does your sin hurt God, nor your justice profit him: for he will be glorified without you.
#BCV:Job 35:9
<h3><verse=Job 35:9>Job 35:9</verse></h3>



By reason of the multitude of oppressions they make [the oppressed] (e) to cry: they cry out by
reason of the arm of the mighty.



(e) The wicked may hurt man and cause him to cry, who if he sought God who lends comfort would
be delivered.
#BCV:Job 35:12
<h3><verse=Job 35:12>Job 35:12</verse></h3>



There they cry, (f) but none giveth answer, because of the pride of evil men.



(f) Because they pray not in faith, as feeling God's mercies.
#BCV:Job 35:14
<h3><verse=Job 35:14>Job 35:14</verse></h3>

<page=1167>Although thou sayest thou shalt not see him, (g) [yet] judgment [is] before him; therefore trust thou
in him.



(g) God is just, however you judge him.
#BCV:Job 35:16
<h3><verse=Job 35:16>Job 35:16</verse></h3>



Therefore doth Job (h) open his mouth in vain; he multiplieth words without knowledge.



(h) For if he punished you as you deserved, you would not be able to open your mouth.

<h2>Job 36</h2>

#BCV:Job 36:3
<h3><verse=Job 36:3>Job 36:3</verse></h3>

<page=1168>I will fetch (a) my knowledge from afar, and will ascribe righteousness to my Maker.



(a) He shows that when we speak of God, we must lift our spirits higher than our natural sense is
able to reach.
#BCV:Job 36:4
<h3><verse=Job 36:4>Job 36:4</verse></h3>



For truly my words [shall] not [be] false: he that is (b) perfect in knowledge [is] with thee.



(b) You will perceive that I am a faithful instructor, and that I speak to you in the name of God.
#BCV:Job 36:5
<h3><verse=Job 36:5>Job 36:5</verse></h3>



Behold, God [is] mighty, and despiseth not [any: he is] (c) mighty in strength [and] wisdom.



(c) Strong and constant, and of understanding: for these are the gifts of God, and he loves them in
man: but as much as God punished Job now, it is a sign that these are not in him.
#BCV:Job 36:6
<h3><verse=Job 36:6>Job 36:6</verse></h3>



He (d) preserveth not the life of the wicked: but giveth right to the poor.



(d) Therefore he will not preserve the wicked, but to the humble and afflicted heart he will show
grace.
#BCV:Job 36:7
<h3><verse=Job 36:7>Job 36:7</verse></h3>



He withdraweth not his eyes from the righteous: but with (e) kings [are they] on the throne; yea, he
doth establish them for ever, and they are exalted.



(e) He prefers the godly to honour.
#BCV:Job 36:9
<h3><verse=Job 36:9>Job 36:9</verse></h3>



Then he sheweth them their (f) work, and their transgressions that they have exceeded.



(f) He will move their hearts to feel their sins that they may come to him by repentance as he did
Manasseh.
#BCV:Job 36:12
<h3><verse=Job 36:12>Job 36:12</verse></h3>

<page=1169>But if they obey not, they shall perish by the sword, and they shall die (g) without knowledge.



(g) That is, in their folly or obstinacy, and so shall cause their own destruction.
#BCV:Job 36:13
<h3><verse=Job 36:13>Job 36:13</verse></h3>



But the hypocrites (h) in heart heap up wrath: they (i) cry not when he bindeth them.



(h) Which are maliciously bent against God, and flatter themselves in their vices.



(i) When they are in affliction they do not seek God for help, as Asa in (<bcv=2Ch 16:12>Ch2 16:12</bcv>).

#BCV:Job 36:14
<h3><verse=Job 36:14>Job 36:14</verse></h3>



They die in (k) youth, and their life [is] among the unclean.



(k) They die of some vile death, and that before they come to age.
#BCV:Job 36:16
<h3><verse=Job 36:16>Job 36:16</verse></h3>



Even so would he have removed thee out of the strait [into] a broad place, where [there is] no
straitness; and (l) that which should be set on thy table [should be] full of fatness.



(l) If you had been obedient to God, he would have brought you to freedom and wealth.
#BCV:Job 36:17
<h3><verse=Job 36:17>Job 36:17</verse></h3>



But thou hast fulfilled the (m) judgment of the wicked: judgment and justice take hold [on thee].



(m) You are altogether after the manner of the wicked: for you murmur against the justice of God.
#BCV:Job 36:18
<h3><verse=Job 36:18>Job 36:18</verse></h3>




(n) Because [there is] wrath, [beware] lest he take thee away with [his] stroke: then a great ransom
cannot deliver thee.



(n) God punishes you, lest you forget God in your wealth and so perish.
#BCV:Job 36:20
<h3><verse=Job 36:20>Job 36:20</verse></h3>




(o) Desire not the night, when people are cut off in their place.



(o) Do not be curious in seeking the cause of God's judgments, when he destroys any.
#BCV:Job 36:21
<h3><verse=Job 36:21>Job 36:21</verse></h3>

#BCV:job 36:21
<h3><verse=job 36:21>job 36:21</verse></h3>




(p) And so murmur against God through impatiency.
#BCV:Job 36:25
<h3><verse=Job 36:25>Job 36:25</verse></h3>



Every man may see it; man may behold [it] (q) afar off.



(q) The works of God are revealed, that a man may see them afar off, and know God by the same.
#BCV:Job 36:26
<h3><verse=Job 36:26>Job 36:26</verse></h3>



Behold, God [is] great, (r) and we know [him] not, neither can the number of his years be searched
out.



(r) Our infirmity hinders us so that we cannot attain the perfect knowledge of God.
#BCV:Job 36:27
<h3><verse=Job 36:27>Job 36:27</verse></h3>



For he maketh small the drops of water: they (s) pour down rain according to the vapour thereof:



(s) That is, the rain comes from those drops of water which he keeps in the clouds.
#BCV:Job 36:29
<h3><verse=Job 36:29>Job 36:29</verse></h3>



Also can [any] understand the spreadings of the clouds, [or] the noise of his (t) tabernacle?



(t) Meaning, of the clouds, which he calls the tabernacle of God.
#BCV:Job 36:30
<h3><verse=Job 36:30>Job 36:30</verse></h3>



Behold, he spreadeth his light upon (u) it, and covereth the (x) bottom of the sea.



(u) Upon the cloud.



(x) That men cannot come to the knowledge of the springs of it.
#BCV:Job 36:31
<h3><verse=Job 36:31>Job 36:31</verse></h3>



For by them judgeth he (y) the people; he giveth meat in abundance.



(y) He shows that the rain has a double use: the one that it declares God's judgments, when it
overflows any places, and the other that it makes the land fruitful.
#BCV:Job 36:32
<h3><verse=Job 36:32>Job 36:32</verse></h3>

<page=1171>With clouds he covereth the light; and commandeth it [not to shine] by [the cloud] that cometh (z)
betwixt.



(z) That is, one cloud to dash against another.
#BCV:Job 36:33
<h3><verse=Job 36:33>Job 36:33</verse></h3>




(a) The noise thereof sheweth concerning it, the cattle also concerning the vapour.



(a) The cold vapour shows him: that is, the cloud of the hot exhalation, which being taken in the
cold cloud mounts up toward the place where the fire is, and so anger is engendered; that is, noise
and thunderclaps.

<h2>Job 37</h2>

#BCV:Job 37:1
<h3><verse=Job 37:1>Job 37:1</verse></h3>

<page=1172>At this also my heart (a) trembleth, and is moved out of his place.



(a) At the marvelling of the thunder and lightnings: by which he declares that the faithful are lively
touched with the majesty of God, when they behold his works.
#BCV:Job 37:2
<h3><verse=Job 37:2>Job 37:2</verse></h3>



Hear attentively the (b) noise of his voice, and the sound [that] goeth out of his mouth.



(b) That is the thunder, by which he speaks to men to waken their dullness, and to bring them to the
consideration of his works.
#BCV:Job 37:4
<h3><verse=Job 37:4>Job 37:4</verse></h3>



After it a voice roareth: he thundereth with the voice of his excellency; and he will not stay (c) them
when his voice is heard.



(c) Meaning, the rains and thunders.
#BCV:Job 37:6
<h3><verse=Job 37:6>Job 37:6</verse></h3>



For he saith to the snow, Be thou [on] the earth; (d) likewise to the small rain, and to the great rain
of his strength.



(d) So that neither small rain nor great, snow nor anything else comes without God's appointment.
#BCV:Job 37:7
<h3><verse=Job 37:7>Job 37:7</verse></h3>



He (e) sealeth up the hand of every man; that all men may know his work.



(e) By rains and thunders God causes men to keep themselves within their houses.
#BCV:Job 37:9
<h3><verse=Job 37:9>Job 37:9</verse></h3>



Out of the south cometh the whirlwind: and cold out of the (f) north.



(f) In Hebrew it is called the scattering wind, because it drives away the clouds and purges the air.
#BCV:Job 37:10
<h3><verse=Job 37:10>Job 37:10</verse></h3>

<page=1173>By the breath of God frost is given: and the breadth of the waters (g) is straitened.



(g) That is, frozen up and dried.
#BCV:Job 37:11
<h3><verse=Job 37:11>Job 37:11</verse></h3>



Also by watering he (h) wearieth the thick cloud: he scattereth his (i) bright cloud:



(h) Gather the vapours and move to and fro to water the earth.



(i) That is, the cloud that has lightning in it.
#BCV:Job 37:13
<h3><verse=Job 37:13>Job 37:13</verse></h3>



He causeth it to come, whether for (k) correction, or for his land, or for mercy.



(k) Rain, cold, heat, tempests and such like are sent from God, either to punish man, or to profit the
earth, or to declare his favour toward man, as in (<bcv=Job 36:31>Job 36:31</bcv>).
#BCV:Job 37:15
<h3><verse=Job 37:15>Job 37:15</verse></h3>



Dost thou know when God disposed them, and caused the (l) light of his cloud to shine?



(l) That is, the lightning to break forth in the clouds?
#BCV:Job 37:16
<h3><verse=Job 37:16>Job 37:16</verse></h3>



Dost thou know the (m) balancings of the clouds, the wondrous works of him which is perfect in
knowledge?



(m) Which is sometimes changed into rain, or snow, hail or such like.
#BCV:Job 37:17
<h3><verse=Job 37:17>Job 37:17</verse></h3>



How thy garments [are] (n) warm, when he quieteth the earth by the south [wind]?



(n) Why your clothes should keep you warm when the south wind blows rather than when any other
wind blows?
#BCV:Job 37:18
<h3><verse=Job 37:18>Job 37:18</verse></h3>



Hast thou with him spread out the sky, [which is] strong, [and] as a molten looking (o) glass?



(o) For the clearness.
#BCV:Job 37:19
<h3><verse=Job 37:19>Job 37:19</verse></h3>

#BCV:job 37:19
<h3><verse=job 37:19>job 37:19</verse></h3>




(p) That is, our ignorance: signifying that Job was so presumptuous, that he would control the works
of God.
#BCV:Job 37:20
<h3><verse=Job 37:20>Job 37:20</verse></h3>



Shall it be (q) told him that I speak? if a man speak, surely he shall be swallowed up.



(q) Has God need that any should tell him when man murmurs against him?
#BCV:Job 37:21
<h3><verse=Job 37:21>Job 37:21</verse></h3>



And now [men] see not the bright light (s) which [is] in the clouds: but the wind passeth, and
cleanseth them.



(s) The cloud stops the shining of the sun, that man cannot see it till the wind has chased away the
cloud: and if man is not able to attain to the knowledge of these things, how much less God's
judgments?
#BCV:Job 37:22
<h3><verse=Job 37:22>Job 37:22</verse></h3>




(t) Fair weather cometh out of the north: with God [is] terrible majesty.



(t) In Hebrew, gold, meaning fair weather and clear as gold.
#BCV:Job 37:23
<h3><verse=Job 37:23>Job 37:23</verse></h3>



[Touching] the Almighty, we cannot find him out: [he is] excellent in power, and in judgment, and in
plenty of justice: he will not (u) afflict.



(u) Meaning, without cause.

<h2>Job 38</h2>

#BCV:Job 38:1
<h3><verse=Job 38:1>Job 38:1</verse></h3>

<page=1175>Then the LORD answered Job out of the (a) whirlwind, and said,



(a) That his words might have greater majesty, and that Job might know with whom he had to do.
#BCV:Job 38:2
<h3><verse=Job 38:2>Job 38:2</verse></h3>



Who [is] this that (b) darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge?



(b) Which by seeking out the secret counsel of God by man's reason, makes it more obscure, and
shows his own folly.
#BCV:Job 38:3
<h3><verse=Job 38:3>Job 38:3</verse></h3>



Gird up now thy loins like a man; for I (c) will demand of thee, and answer thou me.



(c) Because he wished to dispute with God, (<bcv=Job 23:3>Job 23:3</bcv>), God reasons with him, to declare his rashness.
#BCV:Job 38:4
<h3><verse=Job 38:4>Job 38:4</verse></h3>



Where wast thou when I (d) laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding.



(d) Seeing he could not judge those things which were done so long before he was born, he was not
able to comprehend all God's works: much less the secret causes of his judgments.
#BCV:Job 38:7
<h3><verse=Job 38:7>Job 38:7</verse></h3>



When the morning stars (e) sang together, and all the (f) sons of God shouted for joy?



(e) The stars and dumb creatures are said to praise God, because his power, wisdom and goodness is
manifest and known in it.



(f) Meaning the angels.
#BCV:Job 38:9
<h3><verse=Job 38:9>Job 38:9</verse></h3>



When I made the cloud the garment thereof, and thick darkness a (g) swaddlingband for it,



(g) As though the great sea was but as a little baby in the hands of God to turn to and fro.
#BCV:Job 38:11
<h3><verse=Job 38:11>Job 38:11</verse></h3>

<page=1176>And said, Hitherto shalt thou come, but no further: and here shall thy proud waves be (h) stayed?



(h) That is, God's decree and commandment as in (<bcv=Job 38:10>Job 38:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Job 38:12
<h3><verse=Job 38:12>Job 38:12</verse></h3>



Hast thou commanded the (i) morning since thy days; [and] caused the dayspring to know his place;



(i) That is, to rise, since you were born?
#BCV:Job 38:13
<h3><verse=Job 38:13>Job 38:13</verse></h3>



That it might take hold of the ends of the earth, that the wicked might be (k) shaken out of it?



(k) Who having in the night been given to wickedness, cannot abide the light, but hide themselves.
#BCV:Job 38:14
<h3><verse=Job 38:14>Job 38:14</verse></h3>



It is turned as clay [to] the seal; (l) and they stand as a garment.



(l) The earth which seemed in the night to have no form by the rising of the sun, is as it were
created anew, and all things in it clad with new beauty.
#BCV:Job 38:16
<h3><verse=Job 38:16>Job 38:16</verse></h3>



Hast thou entered into the springs of the sea? or hast thou walked in the search of the (m) depth?



(m) If you are not able to seek out the depth of the sea, how much less are you able to comprehend
the counsel of God?
#BCV:Job 38:20
<h3><verse=Job 38:20>Job 38:20</verse></h3>



That thou (n) shouldest take it to the bound thereof, and that thou shouldest know the paths [to] the
house thereof ?



(n) That you might appoint its highways and limits.
#BCV:Job 38:23
<h3><verse=Job 38:23>Job 38:23</verse></h3>



Which I have reserved (o) against the time of trouble, against the day of battle and war?



(o) To punish my enemies with them, (<bcv=Exo 9:18>Exo 9:18</bcv>;<bcv=Jos 10:11> Jos 10:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Job 38:30
<h3><verse=Job 38:30>Job 38:30</verse></h3>

<page=1177>The waters are hid (p) as [with] a stone, and the face of the deep is frozen.



(p) The ice covers it, as though it were paved with stone.
#BCV:Job 38:31
<h3><verse=Job 38:31>Job 38:31</verse></h3>



Canst thou bind the sweet influences (q) of Pleiades, or loose the bands of (r) Orion?



(q) Which rise when the sun is in Taurus, which is the spring, and brings flowers.



(r) Which comes in winter.
#BCV:Job 38:32
<h3><verse=Job 38:32>Job 38:32</verse></h3>



Canst thou bring forth (s) Mazzaroth in his season? or canst thou guide (t) Arcturus with his sons?



(s) Certain stars so called, some think they were the twelve signs.



(t) The north star with those that are about him.
#BCV:Job 38:33
<h3><verse=Job 38:33>Job 38:33</verse></h3>



Knowest thou the ordinances of heaven? canst thou set the (u) dominion thereof in the earth?



(u) Can you cause the heavenly bodies to have any power over the earthly bodies?
#BCV:Job 38:36
<h3><verse=Job 38:36>Job 38:36</verse></h3>



Who hath put wisdom in the (x) inward parts? or who hath given understanding to the heart?



(x) In the secret parts of man.
#BCV:Job 38:37
<h3><verse=Job 38:37>Job 38:37</verse></h3>



Who can number the clouds in wisdom? or who can stay the (y) bottles of heaven,



(y) That is, the clouds in which the water is contained as in bottles.
#BCV:Job 38:38
<h3><verse=Job 38:38>Job 38:38</verse></h3>



When the dust groweth into hardness, (z) and the clods cleave fast together?



(z) For when God does not open these bottles, the earth comes to this inconvenience.
#BCV:Job 38:39
<h3><verse=Job 38:39>Job 38:39</verse></h3>

<page=1178>Wilt (a) thou hunt the prey for the lion? or fill the appetite of the young lions,



(a) After he had declared God's works in the heavens, he shows his marvellous providence in earth,
even toward the brute beasts.
#BCV:Job 38:41
<h3><verse=Job 38:41>Job 38:41</verse></h3>



Who provideth for the raven his food? when his young ones (b) cry unto God, they wander for lack
of meat.



(b) Read (<bcv=Psa 147:9>Psa 147:9</bcv>).

<h2>Job 39</h2>

#BCV:Job 39:2
<h3><verse=Job 39:2>Job 39:2</verse></h3>

<page=1179>Canst thou number the months [that] they (d) fulfil? or knowest thou the time when they bring forth?



(d) That is, how long they go with young?
#BCV:Job 39:3
<h3><verse=Job 39:3>Job 39:3</verse></h3>



They bow themselves, they (e) bring forth their young ones, they cast out their sorrows.



(e) They bring forth with great difficulty.
#BCV:Job 39:6
<h3><verse=Job 39:6>Job 39:6</verse></h3>



Whose house I have made the wilderness, and the (f) barren land his dwellings.



(f) That is, the barren ground where no good fruit grows.
#BCV:Job 39:9
<h3><verse=Job 39:9>Job 39:9</verse></h3>



Will the unicorn be willing to (g) serve thee, or abide by thy crib?



(g) Is it possible to make the unicorn tame? signifying that if man cannot rule a creature, that it is
much more impossible that he should appoint the wisdom of God, by which he governs all the
world.
#BCV:Job 39:14
<h3><verse=Job 39:14>Job 39:14</verse></h3>



Which leaveth her eggs in the earth, and (h) warmeth them in dust,



(h) They write that the ostrich covers her eggs in the sand, and because the country is hot and the
sun still keeps them warm, they are hatched.
#BCV:Job 39:16
<h3><verse=Job 39:16>Job 39:16</verse></h3>



She is hardened against her young ones, as though [they were] not hers: her labour is (i) in vain
without fear;



(i) If he should take care of them.
#BCV:Job 39:17
<h3><verse=Job 39:17>Job 39:17</verse></h3>

<page=1180>Because God hath deprived her of (k) wisdom, neither hath he imparted to her understanding.



(k) That is, to have a care and natural affection toward his young.
#BCV:Job 39:18
<h3><verse=Job 39:18>Job 39:18</verse></h3>



What (l) time she lifteth up herself on high, she scorneth the horse and his rider.



(l) When the young ostrich is grown up, he outruns the horse.
#BCV:Job 39:19
<h3><verse=Job 39:19>Job 39:19</verse></h3>



Hast thou given the horse strength? hast thou clothed his neck with (m) thunder?



(m) That is, given him courage? which is meant by neighing and shaking his neck.
#BCV:Job 39:21
<h3><verse=Job 39:21>Job 39:21</verse></h3>



He (n) paweth in the valley, and rejoiceth in [his] strength: he goeth on to meet the armed men.



(n) He beats with his hoof.
#BCV:Job 39:24
<h3><verse=Job 39:24>Job 39:24</verse></h3>



He (o) swalloweth the ground with fierceness and rage: neither believeth he that [it is] the sound of
the trumpet.



(o) He so rides the ground that it seems nothing under him.
#BCV:Job 39:26
<h3><verse=Job 39:26>Job 39:26</verse></h3>



Doth the hawk fly by thy wisdom, [and] stretch her wings toward the (p) south?



(p) That is, when cold comes, to fly into the warm countries.

<h2>Job 40</h2>

#BCV:Job 40:2
<h3><verse=Job 40:2>Job 40:2</verse></h3>

<page=1181>Shall he that contendeth with the Almighty (q) instruct [him]? he that reproveth God, let him answer
it.



(q) Is this the way for a man that will learn, to strive with God? which he reproves in Job.
#BCV:Job 40:4
<h3><verse=Job 40:4>Job 40:4</verse></h3>



Behold, I am (r) vile; what shall I answer thee? I will lay mine hand upon my mouth.



(r) By which he shows that he repented and desired pardon for his faults.
#BCV:Job 40:8
<h3><verse=Job 40:8>Job 40:8</verse></h3>



Wilt thou also disannul (a) my judgment? wilt thou condemn me, that thou mayest be righteous?



(a) Signifying that they who justify themselves condemn God as unjust.
#BCV:Job 40:10
<h3><verse=Job 40:10>Job 40:10</verse></h3>



Deck thyself now [with] (b) majesty and excellency; and array thyself with glory and beauty.



(b) Meaning, that these were proper to God, and belonged to no man.
#BCV:Job 40:13
<h3><verse=Job 40:13>Job 40:13</verse></h3>



Hide them in the dust together; [and] bind (c) their faces in secret.



(c) Cause them to die if you can.
#BCV:Job 40:14
<h3><verse=Job 40:14>Job 40:14</verse></h3>



Then will I also confess unto thee that thine own right hand can (d) save thee.



(d) Proving by this that whoever attributes to himself power and ability to save himself, makes
himself God.
#BCV:Job 40:15
<h3><verse=Job 40:15>Job 40:15</verse></h3>



Behold now (e) behemoth, which I made (f) with thee; he eateth (g) grass as an ox.



(e) This beast is thought to be the elephant, or some other, which is unknown.

<page=1182>(f) Whom I made as well as you.



(g) This commends the providence of God toward man: for if he were given to devour as a lion,
nothing would be able to resist him, or content him.
#BCV:Job 40:19
<h3><verse=Job 40:19>Job 40:19</verse></h3>




(h) He [is] the chief of the ways of God: (i) he that made him can make his sword to approach
[unto him].



(h) He is one of the chief works of God among the beasts.



(i) Though man dare not come near him, yet God can kill him.
#BCV:Job 40:23
<h3><verse=Job 40:23>Job 40:23</verse></h3>



Behold, he drinketh up a river, (k) [and] hasteth not: he trusteth that he can draw up Jordan into his
mouth.



(k) He drinks at leisure, and fears nobody.

<h2>Job 41</h2>

#BCV:Job 41:1
<h3><verse=Job 41:1>Job 41:1</verse></h3>

<page=1183>Canst thou draw out (l) leviathan with an hook? or his tongue with a cord [which] thou lettest down?



(l) Meaning the whale.
#BCV:Job 41:2
<h3><verse=Job 41:2>Job 41:2</verse></h3>



Canst thou put an hook into his nose? or (m) bore his jaw through with a thorn?



(m) Because he fears lest you should take him.
#BCV:Job 41:4
<h3><verse=Job 41:4>Job 41:4</verse></h3>



Will he make a covenant with thee? wilt thou take (n) him for a servant for ever?



(n) To do your business, and be at your command?
#BCV:Job 41:8
<h3><verse=Job 41:8>Job 41:8</verse></h3>



Lay thine hand upon him, remember (o) the battle, do no more.



(o) If you once consider the danger, you will not meddle with him.
#BCV:Job 41:9
<h3><verse=Job 41:9>Job 41:9</verse></h3>



Behold, (p) the hope of him is in vain: shall not [one] be cast down even at the sight of him?



(p) That is, that trusts to take him.
#BCV:Job 41:10
<h3><verse=Job 41:10>Job 41:10</verse></h3>



None [is so] fierce that dare stir him up: who then is able to (a) stand before me?



(a) If no one dare stand against a whale, which is but a creature, who is able to compare with God
the creator?
#BCV:Job 41:11
<h3><verse=Job 41:11>Job 41:11</verse></h3>



Who hath prevented me, that I should (b) repay [him? whatsoever is] under the whole heaven is
mine.



(b) Who has taught me to accomplish my work?
#BCV:Job 41:12
<h3><verse=Job 41:12>Job 41:12</verse></h3>

<page=1184>I will not conceal (c) his parts, nor his power, nor his comely proportion.



(c) The parts and members of the whale?
#BCV:Job 41:13
<h3><verse=Job 41:13>Job 41:13</verse></h3>



Who can discover the face (d) of his garment? [or] who can come [to him] with his double (e) bridle?



(d) That is, who dare pull off his skin?



(e) Who dare put a bridle in his mouth?
#BCV:Job 41:14
<h3><verse=Job 41:14>Job 41:14</verse></h3>



Who can (f) open the doors of his face? his teeth [are] terrible round about.



(f) Who dare look in his mouth?
#BCV:Job 41:18
<h3><verse=Job 41:18>Job 41:18</verse></h3>



By his neesings (g) a light doth shine, and his eyes [are] like the eyelids of the morning.



(g) That is, casts out flames of fire.
#BCV:Job 41:22
<h3><verse=Job 41:22>Job 41:22</verse></h3>



In his neck remaineth strength, and (h) sorrow is turned into joy before him.



(h) Nothing is painful or hard for him.
#BCV:Job 41:30
<h3><verse=Job 41:30>Job 41:30</verse></h3>



Sharp stones (i) [are] under him: he spreadeth sharp pointed things upon the mire.



(i) His skin is so hard that he lies with a great ease on the stones as in the mud.
#BCV:Job 41:31
<h3><verse=Job 41:31>Job 41:31</verse></h3>



He maketh the deep to (k) boil like a pot: he maketh the sea like a pot of ointment.



(k) Either he makes the sea to seem like it is boiling by his wallowing, or else he spouts water in such
abundance as it would seem that the sea boiled.
#BCV:Job 41:32
<h3><verse=Job 41:32>Job 41:32</verse></h3>

<page=1185>He maketh a path to (l) shine after him; [one] would think the deep [to be] hoary.



(l) That is, a white froth and shining stream before him.
#BCV:Job 41:34
<h3><verse=Job 41:34>Job 41:34</verse></h3>



He beholdeth (m) all high [things]: he [is] a king over all the children of pride.



(m) He despises all other beasts and monsters, and is the proudest of all others.

<h2>Job 42</h2>

#BCV:Job 42:2
<h3><verse=Job 42:2>Job 42:2</verse></h3>

<page=1186>I know that thou canst do every [thing], and [that] no (a) thought can be withholden from thee.



(a) No thought so secret but you see it, nor anything that you think but that you can bring it to pass.
#BCV:Job 42:3
<h3><verse=Job 42:3>Job 42:3</verse></h3>



Who [is] he that hideth counsel without (b) knowledge? therefore have I uttered that I understood
not; things too wonderful for me, (c) which I knew not.



(b) Is there any but I? for this God laid to his charge, (<bcv=Job 38:2>Job 38:2</bcv>).



(c) I confess in this my ignorance, and that I spoke of what I did not know.
#BCV:Job 42:4
<h3><verse=Job 42:4>Job 42:4</verse></h3>



Hear, I beseech thee, and I will speak: I will demand of thee, (d) and declare thou unto me.



(d) He shows that he will be God's scholar to learn of him.
#BCV:Job 42:5
<h3><verse=Job 42:5>Job 42:5</verse></h3>



I have (e) heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee.



(e) I knew you only before by hearsay, but now you have caused me to feel what you are to me, that I
may resign myself over to you.
#BCV:Job 42:7
<h3><verse=Job 42:7>Job 42:7</verse></h3>



And it was [so], that after the LORD had spoken these words unto Job, the LORD said to Eliphaz
the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken
of me [the thing that is] (f) right, as my servant (g) Job [hath].



(f) You took in hand an evil cause, in that you condemned him by his outward afflictions, and not
comforted him with my mercies.



(g) Who had a good cause, but handled it evil.
#BCV:Job 42:8
<h3><verse=Job 42:8>Job 42:8</verse></h3>



Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up
for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall (h) pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I
<page=1187>deal with you [after your] folly, in that ye have not spoken of me [the thing which is] right, like my
servant Job.



(h) When you have reconciled yourselves to him for the faults that you have committed against him,
he will pray for you, and I will hear him.
#BCV:Job 42:10
<h3><verse=Job 42:10>Job 42:10</verse></h3>



And the LORD turned the (i) captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave
Job twice as much as he had before.

(i) He delivered him out of the affliction he was in.
#BCV:Job 42:11
<h3><verse=Job 42:11>Job 42:11</verse></h3>

Then came there unto him all his (k) brethren, and all his sisters, and all they that had been of his
acquaintance before, and did eat bread with him in his house: and they bemoaned him, and
comforted him over all the evil that the LORD had brought upon him: every man also gave him a
piece of money, and every one an earring of gold.

(k) That is, all his kindred, read (<bcv=Job 19:13>Job 19:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Job 42:12
<h3><verse=Job 42:12>Job 42:12</verse></h3>

So the LORD blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning: for he had (l) fourteen
thousand sheep, and six thousand camels, and a thousand yoke of oxen, and a thousand she asses.

(l) God made him twice as rich in cattle as he was before, and gave him as many children as he had
taken from him.
#BCV:Job 42:14
<h3><verse=Job 42:14>Job 42:14</verse></h3>

And he called the name of the first, (m) Jemima; and the name of the second, (n) Kezia; and the
name of the third, (o) Kerenhappuch.

(m) That is, of long life, or beautiful as the day.

(n) As pleasant as cassia or sweet spice.

(o) That is, the horn of beauty.

<h1>Psalms</h1>

<h2>Psalms 1</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 1:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 1:1>Psalms 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=1189>Blessed [is] the man that walketh not in the (a) counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of
sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

The Argument - This book of psalms is given to us by the Holy Spirit, to be esteemed as a precious
treasure in which all things are contained that bring to true happiness in this present life as well as in
the life to come. For the riches of true knowledge and heavenly wisdom, are here set open for us, to
take of it most abundantly. If we would know the great and high majesty of God, here we may see
the brightness of it shine clearly. If we would seek his incomprehensible wisdom, here is the school
of the same profession. If we would comprehend his inestimable bounty, and approach near to it,
and fill our hands with that treasure, here we may have a most lively and comfortable taste of it. If
we would know where our salvation lies and how to attain to everlasting life, here is Christ our
Redeemer, and Mediator most evidently described. The rich man may learn the true use of his riches.
The poor man may find full contentment. He who will rejoice will know true joy, and how to keep
measure in it. They who are afflicted and oppressed will see what their comfort exists in, and how
they should praise God when he sends them deliverance. The wicked and the persecutors of the
children of God will see how the hand of God is always against them: and though he permits them
to prosper for a while, yet he bridles them, so much so that they cannot touch a hair of ones head
unless he permits them, and how in the end their destruction is most miserable. Briefly here we have
most present remedies against all temptations and troubles of mind and conscience, so that being
well practised in this, we may be assured against all dangers in this life, live in the true fear and love
of God, and at length attain the incorruptible crown of glory, which is laid up for all who love the
coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.



(a) When a man has once given place to evil counsel, or to his own sin nature, he begins to forget
himself in his sin, and so falls into contempt of God, which is called the seat of the scorners.
#BCV:Psalms 1:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 1:2>Psalms 1:2</verse></h3>



But his delight [is] in the law of the LORD; and in his (b) law doth he meditate day and night.



(b) In the holy scriptures.
#BCV:Psalms 1:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 1:3>Psalms 1:3</verse></h3>



And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season;
his leaf also shall not wither; and (c) whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

<page=1190>(c) God's children are so moistened with his grace, that whatever comes to them, tends to their
salvation.
#BCV:Psalms 1:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 1:4>Psalms 1:4</verse></h3>




(d) The ungodly [are] not so: but [are] like the chaff which the wind driveth away.



(d) Though the wicked seem to prosper in this world, yet the Lord drives them down that they shall
not rise nor stand in the company of the righteous.
#BCV:Psalms 1:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 1:5>Psalms 1:5</verse></h3>



Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the (e) judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the
righteous.



(e) But tremble when they see God's wrath.
#BCV:Psalms 1:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 1:6>Psalms 1:6</verse></h3>



For the LORD (f) knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.



(f) Approves and prospers, in the same way that to not know is to reprove and reject.

<h2>Psalms 2</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 2:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 2:1>Psalms 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=1191>Why do the (a) heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?



(a) The conspiracy of the Gentiles, the murmuring of the Jews and power of kings cannot prevail
against Christ.
#BCV:Psalms 2:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 2:3>Psalms 2:3</verse></h3>




(b) Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us.



(b) Thus the wicked say that they will cast off the yoke of God and of his Christ.
#BCV:Psalms 2:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 2:5>Psalms 2:5</verse></h3>




(c) Then shall he speak unto them in his wrath, and vex them in his sore displeasure.



(c) God's plagues will declare that in resisting his Christ, they fought against him.
#BCV:Psalms 2:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 2:7>Psalms 2:7</verse></h3>



I will declare the (d) decree: the LORD hath said unto me, Thou [art] my Son; this (e) day have I
begotten thee.



(d) To show that my calling to the kingdom is from God.



(e) That is to say, concerning man's knowledge, because it was the first time that David appeared to
be elected by God. So it is applied to Christ in his first coming and manifestation to the world.
#BCV:Psalms 2:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 2:8>Psalms 2:8</verse></h3>



Ask of me, and I shall give [thee] the heathen [for] thine inheritance, and the (f) uttermost parts of
the earth [for] thy possession.



(f) Not only the Jews but the Gentiles also.
#BCV:Psalms 2:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 2:10>Psalms 2:10</verse></h3>




(g) Be wise now therefore, O ye kings: be instructed, ye judges of the earth.



(g) He exhorts all rulers to repent in time.
#BCV:Psalms 2:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 2:12>Psalms 2:12</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 2:12
<h3><verse=psa 2:12>psa 2:12</verse></h3>



little. Blessed [are] all they that put their trust in him.



(h) In a sign of homage.



(i) When the wicked will say, Peace and rest, then will destruction suddenly come, (<bcv=I Th 5:3>Th1 5:3</bcv>).

<h2>Psalms 3</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 3:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 3:1>Psalms 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=1193>"A Psalm of David, when he fled from Absalom his son." LORD, how are they (a) increased that
trouble me! many [are] they that rise up against me.



(a) This was a token of his stable faith, that for all his troubles he turned to God.
#BCV:Psalms 3:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 3:2>Psalms 3:2</verse></h3>



Many [there be] which say of my soul, [There is] no help for him in God. (b) Selah.



(b) Selah here signifies a lifting up of the voice, to cause us to consider the sentence as a thing of
great importance.
#BCV:Psalms 3:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 3:6>Psalms 3:6</verse></h3>



I will not be afraid of (c) ten thousands of people, that have set [themselves] against me round
about.



(c) When he considered the truth of God's promise, and tried the same, his faith increased
marvellously.
#BCV:Psalms 3:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 3:8>Psalms 3:8</verse></h3>




(d) Salvation [belongeth] unto the LORD: thy blessing [is] upon thy people. Selah.



(d) No matter how great or many the dangers may be, yet God always has ways to deliver his.

<h2>Psalms 4</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 4:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 4:1>Psalms 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=1194>"(a) To the chief Musician on Neginoth, A Psalm of David." Hear me when I call, (b) O God of my
righteousness: thou hast enlarged me [when I was] in (c) distress; have mercy upon me, and hear my
prayer.




(a) Among those who were appointed to sing the psalms and to play on instruments, one was
appointed chief to set the tune, and to begin: who had the charge because he was most excellent and
he began this psalm on the instrument called Neginoth or in a tune so called.



(b) You who are the defender of my just cause.



(c) Both of mind and body.
#BCV:Psalms 4:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 4:2>Psalms 4:2</verse></h3>



O ye (d) sons of men, how long [will ye turn] my glory into shame? [how long] will ye (e) love vanity,
[and] seek after leasing? Selah.



(d) You who think yourselves noble in this world.



(e) Though your enterprises please you, yet God will bring them to nothing.
#BCV:Psalms 4:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 4:3>Psalms 4:3</verse></h3>



But know that the LORD hath set apart him that is (f) godly for himself: the LORD will hear when
I call unto him.



(f) A king who walks in his vocation.
#BCV:Psalms 4:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 4:4>Psalms 4:4</verse></h3>




(g) Stand in awe, and sin not: commune with your own heart upon your bed, and be (h) still. Selah.



(g) For fear of God's judgment.



(h) Cease your rage.
#BCV:Psalms 4:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 4:5>Psalms 4:5</verse></h3>




(i) Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD.



(i) Serve God purely, and not with outward ceremonies.
#BCV:Psalms 4:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 4:6>Psalms 4:6</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 4:6
<h3><verse=psa 4:6>psa 4:6</verse></h3>



countenance upon us.



(k) The multitude seeks worldly wealth, but David sets his happiness in God's favour.
#BCV:Psalms 4:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 4:8>Psalms 4:8</verse></h3>



I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, (l) only makest me dwell in safety.



(l) This word in Hebrew may be referred to God, as it is here translated, or to David, signifying that
he should dwell as joyfully alone, as if he had many about him, because the Lord is with him.

<h2>Psalms 5</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 5:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 5:1>Psalms 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=1196>"To the chief Musician upon Nehiloth, A Psalm of David." Give ear to my words, O LORD,
consider my (a) meditation.



(a) That is, my vehement prayer and secret complaint and sighings.
#BCV:Psalms 5:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 5:3>Psalms 5:3</verse></h3>



My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning will I direct [my prayer] unto
thee, and will (b) look up.



(b) Or wait, with patience and trust till I am heard.
#BCV:Psalms 5:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 5:4>Psalms 5:4</verse></h3>



For thou [art] not a God that hath pleasure in (c) wickedness: neither shall evil dwell with thee.



(c) Seeing that God of nature hates wickedness, he must punish the wicked and save the godly.
#BCV:Psalms 5:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 5:5>Psalms 5:5</verse></h3>




(d) The foolish shall not stand in thy sight: thou hatest all workers of iniquity.



(d) Who run blindly after their carnal desires.
#BCV:Psalms 5:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 5:7>Psalms 5:7</verse></h3>



But as for me, I (e) will come [into] thy house in the multitude of thy mercy: [and] in thy fear will I
worship toward thy holy temple.



(e) In the deepest of his temptations he puts his full confidence in God.
#BCV:Psalms 5:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 5:8>Psalms 5:8</verse></h3>



Lead me, O LORD, in thy righteousness (f) because of mine enemies; make thy way straight before
my face.



(f) Because you are just, therefore lead me out of the dangers of my enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 5:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 5:10>Psalms 5:10</verse></h3>

<page=1197>Destroy thou them, O God; let them (g) fall by their own counsels; cast them out in the multitude
of their transgressions; for they have rebelled against thee.



(g) Let their devices come to nothing.
#BCV:Psalms 5:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 5:11>Psalms 5:11</verse></h3>



But (h) let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou
defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.



(h) Your favour toward me will confirm the faith of all others.
#BCV:Psalms 5:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 5:12>Psalms 5:12</verse></h3>



For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favour (i) wilt thou compass him as [with] a shield.



(i) So that he will be safe from all dangers.

<h2>Psalms 6</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 6:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 6:1>Psalms 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=1198>"To the chief Musician on Neginoth upon Sheminith, A Psalm of David." O LORD, (a) rebuke me
not in thine anger, neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure.



(a) Though I deserve destruction, yet let your mercy pity my frailty.
#BCV:Psalms 6:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 6:2>Psalms 6:2</verse></h3>



Have mercy upon me, O LORD; for I [am] weak: O LORD, heal me; for my (b) bones are vexed.



(b) For my whole strength is abated.
#BCV:Psalms 6:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 6:3>Psalms 6:3</verse></h3>




(c) My soul is also sore vexed: but thou, O LORD, how long?



(c) His conscience is also touched with the fear of God's judgment.
#BCV:Psalms 6:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 6:5>Psalms 6:5</verse></h3>



For in (d) death [there is] no remembrance of thee: in the grave who shall give thee thanks?



(d) He laments that opportunity should be taken from him to praise God in the congregation.
#BCV:Psalms 6:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 6:8>Psalms 6:8</verse></h3>




(e) Depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity; for the LORD hath heard the voice of my weeping.



(e) God sends comfort and boldness in affliction, that we may triumph over our enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 6:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 6:10>Psalms 6:10</verse></h3>



Let all mine enemies be ashamed and sore vexed: let them return [and] be ashamed (f) suddenly.



(f) When the wicked think the godly will perish, God delivers them suddenly, and destroys their
enemies.

<h2>Psalms 7</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 7:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 7:2>Psalms 7:2</verse></h3>

<page=1199>Lest (a) he tear my soul like a lion, rending [it] in pieces, while [there is] none to deliver.



(a) He desires God to deliver him from the rage of cruel Saul.
#BCV:Psalms 7:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 7:3>Psalms 7:3</verse></h3>



O LORD my God, if I have done (b) this; if there be iniquity in my hands;



(b) With which Cush charges me.
#BCV:Psalms 7:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 7:4>Psalms 7:4</verse></h3>




(c) If I have rewarded evil unto him that was at peace with me; (yea, I have delivered him that
without cause is mine enemy:)



(c) If I did not reverence Saul for affinities sake, and preserved his life, (<bcv=I Sa 26:8-9>Sa1 26:8-9</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 7:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 7:5>Psalms 7:5</verse></h3>



Let the enemy persecute my soul, and take [it]; yea, let him tread down my life upon the earth, and
lay mine (d) honour in the dust. Selah.



(d) Let me not only die, but be dishonoured forever.
#BCV:Psalms 7:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 7:6>Psalms 7:6</verse></h3>



Arise, O LORD, in thine anger, lift up thyself because of the rage of mine enemies: and awake for
me [to] the (e) judgment [that] thou hast commanded.



(e) In promising me the kingdom.
#BCV:Psalms 7:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 7:7>Psalms 7:7</verse></h3>



So shall the congregation of the people compass thee about: for their sakes therefore (f) return thou
on high.



(f) Not only for mine, but for your Church's sake declare your power.
#BCV:Psalms 7:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 7:8>Psalms 7:8</verse></h3>

<page=1200>The LORD shall judge the people: judge me, O LORD, according to my (g) righteousness, and
according to mine integrity [that is] in me.



(g) As concerning my behaviour towards Saul and my enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 7:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 7:9>Psalms 7:9</verse></h3>



Oh let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end; but establish the just: for the righteous God
trieth the (h) hearts and reins.



(h) Though they pretend a just cause against me, yet God will judge their hypocrisy.
#BCV:Psalms 7:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 7:11>Psalms 7:11</verse></h3>



God judgeth the righteous, and God is angry [with the wicked] (i) every day.



(i) He continually calls the wicked to repentance by some sign of his judgments.
#BCV:Psalms 7:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 7:12>Psalms 7:12</verse></h3>



If (k) he turn not, he will whet his sword; he hath bent his bow, and made it ready.



(k) Unless Saul changes his mind, I will die, for he has both the men and weapons to destroy me.
Thus considering his great danger, he magnifies God's grace.
#BCV:Psalms 7:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 7:17>Psalms 7:17</verse></h3>



I will praise the LORD according to his (l) righteousness: and will sing praise to the name of the
LORD most high.



(l) In faithfully keeping his promise to me.

<h2>Psalms 8</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 8:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 8:2>Psalms 8:2</verse></h3>

<page=1201>Out of the mouth (a) of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies,
that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger.



(a) Though the wicked would hide God's praises, yet the very babes are sufficient witnesses of the
same.
#BCV:Psalms 8:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 8:4>Psalms 8:4</verse></h3>



What is (b) man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him?



(b) It was sufficient for him to have set forth his glory by the heavens, though he had not come so
low as to man who is but dust.
#BCV:Psalms 8:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 8:5>Psalms 8:5</verse></h3>



For thou hast made him a little lower than the (c) angels, and hast crowned him with glory and
honour.



(c) Concerning his first creation.
#BCV:Psalms 8:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 8:7>Psalms 8:7</verse></h3>



All (d) sheep and oxen, yea, and the beasts of the field;



(d) By the temporal gifts of man's creation, he is led to consider the benefits which he has by his
regeneration through Christ.

<h2>Psalms 9</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 9:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 9:1>Psalms 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=1202>"To the chief Musician upon Muthlabben, A Psalm of David." I will praise [thee], O LORD, with
my (a) whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works.



(a) God is not praised unless the whole glory is given to him alone.
#BCV:Psalms 9:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 9:4>Psalms 9:4</verse></h3>



For (b) thou hast maintained my right and my cause; thou satest in the throne judging right.



(b) However the enemy seems for a time to prevail yet God preserves the just.
#BCV:Psalms 9:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 9:6>Psalms 9:6</verse></h3>




(c) O thou enemy, destructions are come to a perpetual end: and thou hast destroyed cities; their
memorial is perished with them.



(c) A derision of the enemy that minds nothing but destruction: but the Lord will deliver his, and
bring him into judgment.
#BCV:Psalms 9:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 9:9>Psalms 9:9</verse></h3>



The LORD also will be a refuge for the (d) oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.



(d) Our miseries are meant to cause us to feel God's present care over us.
#BCV:Psalms 9:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 9:12>Psalms 9:12</verse></h3>




(e) When he maketh inquisition for blood, he remembereth them: he forgetteth not the cry of the
humble.



(e) Though God does not suddenly avenge the wrong done to his, yet he does not permit the wicked
to go unpunished.
#BCV:Psalms 9:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 9:14>Psalms 9:14</verse></h3>



That I may shew forth all thy praise in the (f) gates of the daughter of Zion: I will rejoice in thy
salvation.



(f) In the open assembly of the Church.
#BCV:Psalms 9:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 9:15>Psalms 9:15</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 9:15
<h3><verse=psa 9:15>psa 9:15</verse></h3>



foot taken.



(g) For God overthrows the wicked in their enterprises.
#BCV:Psalms 9:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 9:16>Psalms 9:16</verse></h3>




(h) The LORD is known [by] the judgment [which] he executeth: the wicked is snared in the work
of his own hands. Higgaion. Selah.



(h) The mercy of God toward his saints must be declared and the fall of the wicked must always be
considered.
#BCV:Psalms 9:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 9:18>Psalms 9:18</verse></h3>



For the needy shall not alway be forgotten: the expectation (i) of the poor shall [not] perish for ever.



(i) God does not promise to help us before we have felt the cross.
#BCV:Psalms 9:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 9:20>Psalms 9:20</verse></h3>



Put them in fear, O LORD: [that] the nations may know themselves [to be but] (k) men. Selah.



(k) Which they cannot learn without the fear of your judgment.

<h2>Psalms 10</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 10:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 10:1>Psalms 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=1204>Why standest thou afar off, O LORD? [why] hidest thou [thyself] in (a) times of trouble?



(a) As soon as we enter into affliction, we think God should help us, but that is not always his due
time.
#BCV:Psalms 10:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 10:3>Psalms 10:3</verse></h3>



For the wicked (b) boasteth of his heart's desire, and blesseth the covetous, [whom] the LORD
abhorreth.



(b) The wicked man rejoices in his own lust he boasts when he has that he would; he brags of his
wit and wealth and blesses himself and thus blasphemes the Lord.
#BCV:Psalms 10:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 10:6>Psalms 10:6</verse></h3>



He hath said in his heart, I shall not be moved: for [I shall] (c) never [be] in adversity.



(c) The evil will not touch me, (<bcv=Isa 28:15>Isa 28:15</bcv>) or else he speaks thus because he never felt evil.
#BCV:Psalms 10:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 10:8>Psalms 10:8</verse></h3>




(d) He sitteth in the lurking places of the villages: in the secret places doth he murder the innocent:
his eyes are privily set against the poor.



(d) He shows that the wicked have many ways to hide their cruelty and therefore should be even
more feared.
#BCV:Psalms 10:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 10:10>Psalms 10:10</verse></h3>



He croucheth, [and] humbleth himself, that the (e) poor may fall by his strong ones.



(e) By the hypocrisy of them who have authority the poor are devoured.
#BCV:Psalms 10:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 10:12>Psalms 10:12</verse></h3>




(f) Arise, O LORD; O God, lift up thine hand: forget not the humble.



(f) He calls to God for help, because wickedness is so far overgrown that God must help now or
never.
#BCV:Psalms 10:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 10:13>Psalms 10:13</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 10:13
<h3><verse=psa 10:13>psa 10:13</verse></h3>




(g) Therefore you must punish their blasphemy.
#BCV:Psalms 10:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 10:14>Psalms 10:14</verse></h3>



Thou hast seen [it]; for thou beholdest mischief and spite, to (h) requite [it] with thy hand: the poor
committeth himself unto thee; thou art the helper of the fatherless.



(h) To judge between the right and the wrong.
#BCV:Psalms 10:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 10:15>Psalms 10:15</verse></h3>



Break thou the arm of the wicked and the evil [man]: seek out his wickedness [till] thou find (i) none.



(i) For you have utterly destroyed him.
#BCV:Psalms 10:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 10:16>Psalms 10:16</verse></h3>



The LORD [is] King for ever and ever: the (k) heathen are perished out of his land.



(k) The hypocrites or such as live not after God's law, will be destroyed.
#BCV:Psalms 10:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 10:18>Psalms 10:18</verse></h3>




(l) To judge the fatherless and the oppressed, that the man of the earth may no more oppress.



(l) God helps when man's help ceases.

<h2>Psalms 11</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 11:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 11:1>Psalms 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=1206>"To the chief Musician, [A Psalm] of David." In the LORD put I my trust: how say ye to my soul, (a)
Flee [as] a bird to your mountain?



(a) This is the wicked counsel of his enemies to him and his companions to drive him from the hope
of God's promise.
#BCV:Psalms 11:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 11:3>Psalms 11:3</verse></h3>



If the (b) foundations be destroyed, what can the (c) righteous do?



(b) All hope of help is taken away.



(c) Yet am I innocent and my cause good.
#BCV:Psalms 11:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 11:4>Psalms 11:4</verse></h3>



The LORD [is] in his holy temple, the LORD'S throne [is] in heaven: his eyes (d) behold, his eyelids
try, the children of men.



(d) Though all things in earth are out of order, yet God will execute judgment from heaven.
#BCV:Psalms 11:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 11:6>Psalms 11:6</verse></h3>



Upon the wicked he shall rain snares, (e) fire and brimstone, and an horrible tempest: [this shall be]
the (f) portion of their cup.



(e) As in the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah.



(f) Which they will drink even to the dregs, (<bcv=Ezek 23:34>Eze 23:34</bcv>).

<h2>Psalms 12</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 12:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 12:1>Psalms 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=1207>"To the chief Musician upon Sheminith, A Psalm of David." Help, LORD; for the (a) godly man
ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men.



(a) Who dare defend the truth and show mercy to the oppressed.
#BCV:Psalms 12:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 12:2>Psalms 12:2</verse></h3>



They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: [with] (b) flattering lips [and] with a double heart
do they speak.



(b) He means the flatters of the court which hurt him more with their tongues than with their
weapons.
#BCV:Psalms 12:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 12:4>Psalms 12:4</verse></h3>



Who have said, (c) With our tongue will we prevail; our lips [are] our own: who [is] lord over us?



(c) They think themselves able to persuade whatever they take in hand.
#BCV:Psalms 12:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 12:5>Psalms 12:5</verse></h3>




(d) For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the LORD; I
will (e) set [him] in safety [from him that] puffeth at him.



(d) The Lord is moved with the complaints of his, and delivers in the end from all danger.



(e) Because the Lord's word and promise is true and unchangeable he will perform it and preserve
the poor from this wicked generation.
#BCV:Psalms 12:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 12:7>Psalms 12:7</verse></h3>



Thou shalt keep (f) them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.



(f) That is, yours though was only one man.
#BCV:Psalms 12:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 12:8>Psalms 12:8</verse></h3>



The wicked walk on every side, (g) when the vilest men are exalted.



(g) For they suppress the godly and maintain the wicked.

<h2>Psalms 13</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 13:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 13:1>Psalms 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=1208>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David." How long wilt thou forget me, O LORD? (a) for ever?
how long wilt thou hide thy face from me?



(a) He declares that his afflictions lasted a long time, and that his faith did not waver.
#BCV:Psalms 13:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 13:2>Psalms 13:2</verse></h3>



How long shall I take (b) counsel in my soul, [having] sorrow in my heart daily? how long shall mine
enemy be exalted over me?



(b) Changing my purposes as the sick man does his place.
#BCV:Psalms 13:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 13:4>Psalms 13:4</verse></h3>



Lest mine enemy say, I have (c) prevailed against him; [and] those that trouble me rejoice when I am
moved.



(c) Which might turn to God's dishonour: if he did not defend his.
#BCV:Psalms 13:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 13:5>Psalms 13:5</verse></h3>



But I have trusted in thy (d) mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation.



(d) The mercy of God is the cause of our salvation.
#BCV:Psalms 13:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 13:6>Psalms 13:6</verse></h3>



I will sing unto the LORD, because he hath (e) dealt bountifully with me.



(e) Both by the benefits past and by others to come.

<h2>Psalms 14</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 14:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 14:1>Psalms 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=1209>"To the chief Musician, [A Psalm] of David." The fool hath said in his heart, (a) [There is] no God.
They are (b) corrupt, they have done abominable works, [there is] none that doeth good.



(a) He shows that the cause of all wickedness if forgetting God.



(b) There is nothing but disorder and wickedness among them.
#BCV:Psalms 14:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 14:3>Psalms 14:3</verse></h3>



They are (c) all gone aside, they are [all] together become filthy: [there is] none that doeth good, no,
not one.



(c) David here makes comparisons between the faithful and the reprobate, but Paul speaks the same
of all men naturally, (<bcv=Rom 3:10>Rom 3:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 14:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 14:5>Psalms 14:5</verse></h3>




(d) There were they in great fear: for God [is] in the generation of the righteous.



(d) Where they think themselves most sure.
#BCV:Psalms 14:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 14:6>Psalms 14:6</verse></h3>



Ye have (e) shamed the counsel of the poor, because the LORD [is] his refuge.



(e) You mock them who put their trust in God.
#BCV:Psalms 14:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 14:7>Psalms 14:7</verse></h3>



Oh that the salvation of (f) Israel [were come] out of Zion! when the LORD bringeth back the
captivity of his people, Jacob shall rejoice, [and] Israel shall be glad.



(f) He prays for the whole Church whom he is assured God will deliver: for no one else but he can
do it.

<h2>Psalms 15</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 15:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 15:2>Psalms 15:2</verse></h3>

<page=1210>He that (a) walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.



(a) He shows that we cannot call on God unless we trust in him.
#BCV:Psalms 15:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 15:4>Psalms 15:4</verse></h3>




(b) In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. [He that]
sweareth to [his own] hurt, and changeth not.



(b) He who flatters not the ungodly in their wickedness.
#BCV:Psalms 15:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 15:5>Psalms 15:5</verse></h3>



[He that] (c) putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that
doeth these [things] (d) shall never be moved.



(c) To the hinderance of his neighbour.



(d) That is, will not be cast from the Church as a hypocrite.

<h2>Psalms 16</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 16:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 16:1>Psalms 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=1211>"Michtam of David." Preserve me, O God: for in thee do I put my (a) trust.



(a) He shows that we cannot call on God unless we trust in him.
#BCV:Psalms 16:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 16:2>Psalms 16:2</verse></h3>



[O my soul], thou hast said unto the LORD, Thou [art] my Lord: my (b) goodness [extendeth] not
to thee;



(b) Though we cannot enrich God, yet we must bestow God's gifts for the use of his children.
#BCV:Psalms 16:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 16:4>Psalms 16:4</verse></h3>



Their (c) sorrows shall be multiplied [that] hasten [after] another [god]: (d) their drink offerings of
blood will I not offer, nor take up their names into my lips.



(c) As grief of conscience and miserable destruction.



(d) He would neither by outward profession nor in heart, nor in mouth consent to their idolatries.
#BCV:Psalms 16:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 16:6>Psalms 16:6</verse></h3>



The (e) lines are fallen unto me in pleasant [places]; yea, I have a goodly heritage.



(e) With which my portion is measured.
#BCV:Psalms 16:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 16:8>Psalms 16:8</verse></h3>



I have set the LORD always before me: because [he is] at my right hand, I (g) shall not be moved.



(g) The faithful are sure to persevere to the end.
#BCV:Psalms 16:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 16:9>Psalms 16:9</verse></h3>



Therefore (h) my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope.



(h) That is, I rejoice both in body and in soul.
#BCV:Psalms 16:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 16:10>Psalms 16:10</verse></h3>



For thou (i) wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption.

<page=1212>(i) This is chiefly meant by Christ, by whose resurrection all his members have immortality.
#BCV:Psalms 16:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 16:11>Psalms 16:11</verse></h3>



Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy (k) presence [is] fulness of joy; at thy right hand [there are]
pleasures for evermore.



(k) Where God favours there is perfect happiness.

<h2>Psalms 17</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 17:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 17:1>Psalms 17:1</verse></h3>

<page=1213>"A Prayer of David." Hear (a) the right, O LORD, attend unto my cry, give ear unto my prayer, [that
goeth] not out of feigned lips.



(a) My righteous cause.
#BCV:Psalms 17:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 17:2>Psalms 17:2</verse></h3>



Let my (b) sentence come forth from thy presence; let thine eyes behold the things that are equal.



(b) The vengeance that you will show against my enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 17:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 17:3>Psalms 17:3</verse></h3>



Thou hast (c) proved mine heart; thou hast visited [me] in the night; thou hast tried me, [and] shalt
find nothing; I am purposed [that] my (d) mouth shall not transgress.



(c) When your Spirit examined my conscience.



(d) I was innocent toward my enemy both in deed and thought.
#BCV:Psalms 17:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 17:4>Psalms 17:4</verse></h3>



Concerning the works of men, by the (e) word of thy lips I have kept [me from] the paths of the
destroyer.



(e) Though the wicked provoked me to do evil for evil, yet your word kept me back.
#BCV:Psalms 17:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 17:6>Psalms 17:6</verse></h3>



I have called upon thee, (f) for thou wilt hear me, O God: incline thine ear unto me, [and hear] my
speech.



(f) He was assured that God would not refuse his request.
#BCV:Psalms 17:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 17:7>Psalms 17:7</verse></h3>



Shew thy marvellous lovingkindness, O thou that savest by thy right hand them which put their trust
[in thee] from those that (g) rise up [against them].



(g) For all rebel against you, who trouble your Church.
#BCV:Psalms 17:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 17:9>Psalms 17:9</verse></h3>

<page=1214>From the wicked that oppress me, [from] my deadly enemies, [who] compass (h) me about.



(h) For their cruelty cannot be satisfied but with my death.
#BCV:Psalms 17:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 17:10>Psalms 17:10</verse></h3>



They are inclosed in their own (i) fat: with their mouth they speak proudly.



(i) They are puffed up with pride, as the stomach that is choked with fat.
#BCV:Psalms 17:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 17:13>Psalms 17:13</verse></h3>



Arise, O LORD, (k) disappoint him, cast him down: deliver my soul from the wicked, [which is] thy
sword:



(k) Stop his rage.
#BCV:Psalms 17:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 17:14>Psalms 17:14</verse></h3>



From men [which are] thy (l) hand, O LORD, from men of the world, [which have] their (m)
portion in [this] life, and whose belly thou fillest with thy hid [treasure]: they are full of children, and
leave the rest of their [substance] to their babes.



(l) By your heavenly power.



(m) And not feel the pain that God's children often do.
#BCV:Psalms 17:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 17:15>Psalms 17:15</verse></h3>



As for me, I will behold thy face (n) in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I (o) awake, with thy
likeness.



(n) This is the full happiness, comforting against all assaults to have the face of God and favourable
countenance opened to us.



(o) And am delivered out of my great troubles.

<h2>Psalms 18</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 18:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:2>Psalms 18:2</verse></h3>


<page=1215>(a) The LORD [is] my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will
trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, [and] my high tower.



(a) He uses this diversity of names to show that as the wicked have many means to hurt, so God has
many ways to help.
#BCV:Psalms 18:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:3>Psalms 18:3</verse></h3>



I will call upon the LORD, [who is worthy] to be (b) praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.



(b) For no one can obtain their request from God if they do not join his glory with their petition.
#BCV:Psalms 18:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:4>Psalms 18:4</verse></h3>




(c) The sorrows of death compassed me, and the floods of ungodly men made me afraid.



(c) He speaks of the dangers and malice of his enemies from which God had delivered him.
#BCV:Psalms 18:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:7>Psalms 18:7</verse></h3>




(d) Then the earth shook and trembled; the foundations also of the hills moved and were shaken,
because he was wroth.



(d) A description of the wrath of God against his enemies, after he had heard his prayer.
#BCV:Psalms 18:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:8>Psalms 18:8</verse></h3>



There went up a smoke out of his nostrils, and (e) fire out of his mouth devoured: coals were
kindled by it.



(e) He shows how horrible God's judgments will be to the wicked.
#BCV:Psalms 18:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:9>Psalms 18:9</verse></h3>



He bowed the heavens also, and came down: and (f) darkness [was] under his feet.



(f) Darkness signifies the wrath of God as the clear light signifies God's favour.
#BCV:Psalms 18:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:10>Psalms 18:10</verse></h3>

<page=1216>And he rode upon a (g) cherub, and did fly: yea, he did fly upon the wings of the wind.



(g) This is described at large in (Psa. 104:1-35).
#BCV:Psalms 18:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:11>Psalms 18:11</verse></h3>



He made darkness his (h) secret place; his pavilion round about him [were] dark waters [and] thick
clouds of the skies.



(h) As a king angry with the people, will not show himself to them.
#BCV:Psalms 18:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:13>Psalms 18:13</verse></h3>



The LORD also thundered in the heavens, and the Highest gave (i) his voice; hail [stones] and coals
of fire.



(i) Thunders, lightnings and hail.
#BCV:Psalms 18:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:14>Psalms 18:14</verse></h3>



Yea, he sent out (k) his arrows, and scattered them; and he shot out lightnings, and discomfited them.



(k) His lightening.
#BCV:Psalms 18:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:15>Psalms 18:15</verse></h3>



Then the channels of waters were seen, and the (l) foundations of the world were discovered at thy
rebuke, O LORD, at the blast of the breath of thy nostrils.



(l) That is, the deep bottoms were seen when the Red sea was divided.
#BCV:Psalms 18:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:16>Psalms 18:16</verse></h3>



He sent from above, he took me, he drew me out of many (m) waters.



(m) Out of many great dangers.
#BCV:Psalms 18:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:17>Psalms 18:17</verse></h3>



He delivered me from my (n) strong enemy, and from them which hated me: for they were (o) too
strong for me.



(n) That is, Saul.



(o) Therefore God sent me help.
#BCV:Psalms 18:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:19>Psalms 18:19</verse></h3>

<page=1217>He brought me forth also into a large place; (p) he delivered me, because he delighted in me.



(p) The cause of God's deliverance is his favour and love for us.
#BCV:Psalms 18:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:20>Psalms 18:20</verse></h3>



The LORD rewarded me according to my (q) righteousness; according to the cleanness of my hands
hath he recompensed me.



(q) David was sure of his righteous cause and good behaviour toward Saul and his enemies and
therefore was assured of God's favour and deliverance.
#BCV:Psalms 18:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:22>Psalms 18:22</verse></h3>



For all his judgments [were] before me, and I did not put away his (r) statutes from me.



(r) For all his dangers he exercised himself in the law of God.
#BCV:Psalms 18:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:23>Psalms 18:23</verse></h3>



I was also upright before him, and I kept myself from mine (f) iniquity.



(f) I neither gave place to their wicked temptations nor to my own desires.
#BCV:Psalms 18:25
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:25>Psalms 18:25</verse></h3>



With the (t) merciful thou wilt shew thyself merciful; with an upright man thou wilt shew thyself
upright;



(t) Here he speaks of God according to our capacity, who shows mercy to his and punishes the
wicked, as is also said in (<bcv=Lev 26:21>Lev 26:21</bcv>,<bcv=Lev 26:24> Lev 26:24</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 18:27
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:27>Psalms 18:27</verse></h3>



For thou wilt save the afflicted people; but wilt (u) bring down high looks.



(u) When their sin is come to the full measure.
#BCV:Psalms 18:29
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:29>Psalms 18:29</verse></h3>



For by thee I have (x) run through a troop; and by my God have I leaped over a wall.

<page=1218>(x) He attributes it to God that he both got the victory in the field and also destroyed the cities of
his enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 18:30
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:30>Psalms 18:30</verse></h3>



[As for] God, his way [is] perfect: the (y) word of the LORD is tried: he [is] a buckler to all those
that trust in him.



(y) No matter how great or many the dangers may be, yet God's promise must take effect.
#BCV:Psalms 18:32
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:32>Psalms 18:32</verse></h3>



[It is] God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my (z) way perfect.



(z) He gives good success to all my enterprises.
#BCV:Psalms 18:33
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:33>Psalms 18:33</verse></h3>



He maketh my feet like hinds' [feet], and setteth me upon my (a) high places.



(a) As towers and forts, which he took out of the hands of God's enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 18:35
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:35>Psalms 18:35</verse></h3>



Thou hast also given me the (b) shield of thy salvation: and thy right hand hath holden me up, and
thy (c) gentleness hath made me great.



(b) To defend me from dangers.



(c) He attributed the beginning, continuance and increase in well doing only to God's favour.
#BCV:Psalms 18:37
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:37>Psalms 18:37</verse></h3>




(d) I have pursued mine enemies, and overtaken them: neither did I turn again till they were
consumed.



(d) David declares that he did nothing besides his calling, but was stirred up by God's Spirit to
execute his judgments.
#BCV:Psalms 18:40
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:40>Psalms 18:40</verse></h3>



Thou hast also (e) given me the necks of mine enemies; that I might destroy them that hate me.



(e) You have given them to my hands to be slain.
#BCV:Psalms 18:41
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:41>Psalms 18:41</verse></h3>

<page=1219>They (f) cried, but [there was] none to save [them: even] unto the LORD, but he answered them not.



(f) They who reject the cry of the afflicted, God will also reject them when they cry for help, for
either pain or fear causes those hypocrites to cry.
#BCV:Psalms 18:43
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:43>Psalms 18:43</verse></h3>



Thou hast delivered me from the strivings of the people; [and] thou hast made me the head of the



(g) heathen: a people [whom] I have not (h) known shall serve me.



(g) Who dwell round about me.



(h) The kingdom of Christ is prefigured in David's kingdom, who by the preaching of his word
brings all to his subjection.
#BCV:Psalms 18:44
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:44>Psalms 18:44</verse></h3>



As soon as they hear of me, they shall obey me: the strangers shall (i) submit themselves unto me.



(i) Or lie: signifying a subjection constrained and not voluntary.
#BCV:Psalms 18:45
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:45>Psalms 18:45</verse></h3>



The strangers shall (k) fade away, and be afraid out of their close places.



(k) Fear will cause them to be afraid and come forth from their secret holes and holds to seek
pardon.
#BCV:Psalms 18:48
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:48>Psalms 18:48</verse></h3>



He delivereth me from mine enemies: yea, thou liftest me up above those that rise up against me:
thou hast delivered me from the (l) violent man.



(l) That is, Saul who out of malice persecuted him.
#BCV:Psalms 18:49
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:49>Psalms 18:49</verse></h3>



Therefore will (m) I give thanks unto thee, O LORD, among the heathen, and sing praises unto thy
name.



(m) This prophecy belongs to the kingdom of Christ and calling of the Gentiles, as in (<bcv=Rom 15:9>Rom 15:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 18:50
<h3><verse=Psalms 18:50>Psalms 18:50</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 18:50
<h3><verse=psa 18:50>psa 18:50</verse></h3>



seed for evermore.



(n) This did not properly belong to Solomon, but to Jesus Christ.

<h2>Psalms 19</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 19:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 19:1>Psalms 19:1</verse></h3>

<page=1221>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David." The (a) heavens declare the glory of God; and the
firmament sheweth his handywork.



(a) He reproaches man for his ingratitude, seeing the heavens, which are dumb creatures, set forth
God's glory.
#BCV:Psalms 19:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 19:2>Psalms 19:2</verse></h3>




(b) Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge.



(b) The continual success of the day and night is sufficient to declare God's power and goodness.
#BCV:Psalms 19:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 19:3>Psalms 19:3</verse></h3>



[There is] no speech nor (c) language, [where] their voice is not heard.



(c) The heavens are a schoolmaster to all nations, no matter how barbarous.
#BCV:Psalms 19:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 19:4>Psalms 19:4</verse></h3>



Their (d) line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world. In them
hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,



(d) The heavens are as a line of great capital letters to show God's glory to us.
#BCV:Psalms 19:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 19:5>Psalms 19:5</verse></h3>



Which [is] as a bridegroom coming out of his (e) chamber, [and] rejoiceth as a strong man to run a
race.



(e) Or vail. The custom was that the bride and bridegroom would stand under a vail together, and
after come forward with great solemnity and rejoicing of the assembly.
#BCV:Psalms 19:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 19:7>Psalms 19:7</verse></h3>



The (f) law of the LORD [is] perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD [is] sure,
making wise the simple.



(f) Though the creatures cannot serve, yet this should be sufficient to lead us to him.
#BCV:Psalms 19:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 19:9>Psalms 19:9</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 19:9
<h3><verse=psa 19:9>psa 19:9</verse></h3>



righteous (h) altogether.



(g) So that all man's inventions and intentions are lies.



(h) Everyone without exception.
#BCV:Psalms 19:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 19:10>Psalms 19:10</verse></h3>



More to be (i) desired [are they] than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the
honeycomb.



(i) Unless God's word is esteemed above all worldly things, it is contemned.
#BCV:Psalms 19:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 19:11>Psalms 19:11</verse></h3>



Moreover by them is thy servant warned: [and] in keeping of them [there is] great (k) reward.



(k) For God accepts our endeavour though it is far from perfect.
#BCV:Psalms 19:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 19:12>Psalms 19:12</verse></h3>



Who can understand [his] (l) errors? cleanse thou me from secret [faults].



(l) Then there is no reward of duty, but of grace: for where sin is, there death is the reward.
#BCV:Psalms 19:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 19:13>Psalms 19:13</verse></h3>



Keep back thy servant also from (m) presumptuous [sins]; let them not have dominion over me: (n)
then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression.



(m) Which are done purposely and from malice.



(n) If you suppress my wicked affections by your Holy Spirit.
#BCV:Psalms 19:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 19:14>Psalms 19:14</verse></h3>



Let the words of my mouth, and the (o) meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O
LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.



(o) That I may obey you in thought, word and deed.

<h2>Psalms 20</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 20:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 20:1>Psalms 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=1223>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David." The (a) LORD hear thee in the day of trouble; the (b)
name of the God of Jacob defend thee;



(a) By this kings are also admonished to call to God in their affairs.



(b) The virtue, power and grace of God.
#BCV:Psalms 20:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 20:3>Psalms 20:3</verse></h3>



Remember all thy offerings, and (c) accept thy burnt sacrifice; Selah.



(c) In token that they are acceptable to him.
#BCV:Psalms 20:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 20:5>Psalms 20:5</verse></h3>



We will rejoice in thy (d) salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up [our] banners: the
LORD fulfil all thy petitions.



(d) Granted to the king in whose wealth our happiness stands.
#BCV:Psalms 20:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 20:6>Psalms 20:6</verse></h3>



Now (e) know I that the LORD saveth his anointed; he will hear him from his (f) holy heaven with
the saving strength of his right hand.



(e) The Church feels that God had heard their petition.



(f) As by the visible sanctuary God's familiarity appeared toward his people, so by the heavenly is
meant his power and majesty.
#BCV:Psalms 20:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 20:8>Psalms 20:8</verse></h3>




(g) They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright.



(g) The worldlings who do not put their trust in God alone.
#BCV:Psalms 20:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 20:9>Psalms 20:9</verse></h3>



Save, LORD: (h) let the king hear us when we call.



(h) Let the king be able to deliver us by your strength, when we seek him for help.

<h2>Psalms 21</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 21:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 21:1>Psalms 21:1</verse></h3>

<page=1224>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David." The king shall (a) joy in thy strength, O LORD; and in
thy salvation how greatly shall he rejoice!



(a) When he will overcome his enemies, and so be assured of his calling.
#BCV:Psalms 21:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 21:3>Psalms 21:3</verse></h3>



For thou (b) preventest him with the blessings of goodness: thou settest a crown of pure gold on
his head.



(b) You declared your liberal favour toward him before he prayed.
#BCV:Psalms 21:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 21:4>Psalms 21:4</verse></h3>




(c) He asked life of thee, [and] thou gavest [it] him, [even] length of days for ever and ever.



(c) David not only obtained life, but also assurance that his posterity would reign forever.
#BCV:Psalms 21:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 21:6>Psalms 21:6</verse></h3>



For thou hast made him most (d) blessed for ever: thou hast made him exceeding glad with thy
countenance.



(d) You have made him your blessings to others, and a perpetual example of your favour forever.
#BCV:Psalms 21:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 21:8>Psalms 21:8</verse></h3>




(e) Thine hand shall find out all thine enemies: thy right hand shall find out those that hate thee.



(e) Here he describes the power of Christ's kingdom against the enemies of it.
#BCV:Psalms 21:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 21:9>Psalms 21:9</verse></h3>



Thou shalt make them as a fiery oven in the time of thine anger: the LORD shall swallow them up
in his (f) wrath, and the fire shall devour them.



(f) This teaches us patiently to endure the cross till God destroys the adversary.
#BCV:Psalms 21:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 21:11>Psalms 21:11</verse></h3>

<page=1225>For they (g) intended evil against thee: they imagined a mischievous device, [which] they are not able
[to perform].



(g) They laid as it were their nets to make God's power bend to their wicked enterprises.
#BCV:Psalms 21:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 21:12>Psalms 21:12</verse></h3>



Therefore shalt thou make them (h) turn their back, [when] thou shalt make ready [thine arrows]
upon thy strings against the face of them.



(h) As a mark to shoot at.
#BCV:Psalms 21:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 21:13>Psalms 21:13</verse></h3>




(i) Be thou exalted, LORD, in thine own strength: [so] will we sing and praise thy power.



(i) Maintain your Church against your adversaries that we may have ample opportunity to praise your
Name.

<h2>Psalms 22</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 22:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:1>Psalms 22:1</verse></h3>

<page=1226>"To the chief Musician upon Aijeleth Shahar, A Psalm of David." My (a) God, my God, why hast
thou forsaken me? [why art thou so] far from helping me, [and from] the words of my (b) roaring?



(a) Here appears that horrible conflict, which he sustained between faith and desperation.



(b) Being tormented with extreme anguish.
#BCV:Psalms 22:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:3>Psalms 22:3</verse></h3>



But thou [art] holy, [O thou] that inhabitest the (c) praises of Israel.



(c) He means the place of praising, even the tabernacle or else it is so called, because he gave the
people continuous opportunity to praise him.
#BCV:Psalms 22:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:6>Psalms 22:6</verse></h3>



But I [am] a (d) worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people.



(d) And seeming most miserable of all creatures, which referred to Christ, and in this appears the
unspeakable love of God for man, that he would thus abase his son for our sakes.
#BCV:Psalms 22:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:9>Psalms 22:9</verse></h3>



But thou [art] he that took me out of the (e) womb: thou didst make me hope [when I was] upon
my mother's breasts.



(e) Even from my birth you have given me opportunity to trust in you.
#BCV:Psalms 22:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:10>Psalms 22:10</verse></h3>



I was cast upon thee from the womb: thou [art] my God from my mother's (f) belly.



(f) For unless God's providence preserves the infants, they would perish a thousand times in the
mother's womb.
#BCV:Psalms 22:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:12>Psalms 22:12</verse></h3>



Many bulls have compassed me: strong (g) [bulls] of Bashan have beset me round.



(g) He means that his enemies were so fat, proud and cruel that they were more like beasts than men.
#BCV:Psalms 22:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:14>Psalms 22:14</verse></h3>

<page=1227>I am poured out like (h) water, and all my bones are out of joint: my heart is like wax; it is melted in
the midst of my bowels.



(h) Before he spoke of the cruelty of his enemies, and now he declares the inward grief of the mind,
so that Christ was tormented both in soul and body.
#BCV:Psalms 22:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:15>Psalms 22:15</verse></h3>



My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou (i) hast
brought me into the dust of death.



(i) You permitted me to be without all hope of life.
#BCV:Psalms 22:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:16>Psalms 22:16</verse></h3>



For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they (k) pierced my
hands and my feet.



(k) Thus David complained as though he were nailed by his enemies in both hands and feet, but this
was accomplished in Christ.
#BCV:Psalms 22:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:20>Psalms 22:20</verse></h3>



Deliver my soul from the sword; my (l) darling from the power of the dog.



(l) My life that is solitary, left alone and forsaken by all, (<bcv=Psa 35:17>Psa 35:17</bcv>,<bcv=Psa 25:16> Psa 25:16</bcv>)
#BCV:Psalms 22:21
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:21>Psalms 22:21</verse></h3>




(m) Save me from the lion's mouth: for thou hast heard me from the horns of the unicorns.



(m) Christ is delivered with a more mighty deliverance by overcoming death, than if he had not
tasted death at all.
#BCV:Psalms 22:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:23>Psalms 22:23</verse></h3>



Ye that fear the LORD, (n) praise him; all ye the seed of Jacob, glorify him; and fear him, all ye the
seed of Israel.



(n) He promises to exhort the Church that they by his example might praise the Lord.
#BCV:Psalms 22:24
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:24>Psalms 22:24</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 22:24
<h3><verse=psa 22:24>psa 22:24</verse></h3>



from him; but when he cried unto him, he heard.



(o) The poor afflicted are comforted by this example of David, or Christ.
#BCV:Psalms 22:25
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:25>Psalms 22:25</verse></h3>



My praise [shall be] of thee in the great congregation: I will pay my (p) vows before them that fear
him.



(p) Which were sacrifices of thanksgiving which they offered by God's commandment, when they
were delivered out of any great danger.
#BCV:Psalms 22:26
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:26>Psalms 22:26</verse></h3>




(q) The meek shall eat and be satisfied: they shall praise the LORD that seek him: your heart shall
live for ever.



(q) He alludes still to the sacrifice.
#BCV:Psalms 22:29
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:29>Psalms 22:29</verse></h3>



All [they that be] fat (r) upon earth shall eat and worship: all they that go down to the dust shall bow
before him: (s) and none can keep alive his own soul.



(r) Though the poor are first named as in (<bcv=Psa 22:26>Psa 22:26</bcv>) yet the wealthy are not separated from the grace
of Christ's kingdom.



(s) In whom there is no hope that he will recover life: so neither poor nor rich, quick nor dead will
be rejected from his kingdom.
#BCV:Psalms 22:30
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:30>Psalms 22:30</verse></h3>




(t) A seed shall serve him; it shall be accounted to the Lord for a generation.



(t) Meaning, the prosperity which the Lord keeps as a seed to the Church to continue his praise
among men.
#BCV:Psalms 22:31
<h3><verse=Psalms 22:31>Psalms 22:31</verse></h3>



They shall come, and shall declare his righteousness unto a people that shall be born, that he hath (u)
done [this].

<page=1229>(u) That is, God has fulfilled his promise.

<h2>Psalms 23</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 23:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 23:1>Psalms 23:1</verse></h3>

<page=1230>"A Psalm of David." The LORD [is] my shepherd; (a) I shall not want.



(a) He has care over me and ministers all things to me.
#BCV:Psalms 23:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 23:3>Psalms 23:3</verse></h3>



He (b) restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the (c) paths of righteousness for his name's sake.



(b) He comforts or refreshes me.



(c) Plain or straight ways.
#BCV:Psalms 23:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 23:4>Psalms 23:4</verse></h3>



Yea, though I walk through the valley of the (d) shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou [art]
with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.



(d) Though he was in danger of death, as the sheep that wanders in the dark valley without his
shepherd.
#BCV:Psalms 23:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 23:5>Psalms 23:5</verse></h3>



Thou preparest a (e) table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou (f) anointest my head
with oil; my cup runneth over.



(e) Even though his enemies sought to destroy him, yet God delivers him, and deals most liberally
with him in spite of them.



(f) As was the manner of great feasts.
#BCV:Psalms 23:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 23:6>Psalms 23:6</verse></h3>



Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the (g) house
of the LORD for ever.



(g) He does not set his happiness in the pleasures of this world, but in the fear and service of God.

<h2>Psalms 24</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 24:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 24:2>Psalms 24:2</verse></h3>

<page=1231>For he hath founded it upon the (a) seas, and established it upon the floods.



(a) He notes two things: the one, that the earth to man's judgment seems above the waters: and next,
that God miraculously preserves the earth, that it is not drowned with the waters, which naturally are
above it.
#BCV:Psalms 24:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 24:6>Psalms 24:6</verse></h3>



This [is] the (b) generation of them that seek him, that seek thy face, O Jacob. Selah.



(b) Though circumcision separates the carnal seed of Jacob, from the Gentiles, yet he who seeks
God, is the true Jacob and an Israelite.
#BCV:Psalms 24:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 24:7>Psalms 24:7</verse></h3>




(c) Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall
come in.



(c) David desires the building up of the temple, in which the glory of God should appear and under
the figure of this temple, he also prays for the spiritual temple, which is eternal because of the
promise which was made to the temple, as it is written, (<bcv=Psa 132:14>Psa 132:14</bcv>).

<h2>Psalms 25</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 25:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 25:1>Psalms 25:1</verse></h3>

<page=1232>"[A Psalm] of David." Unto thee, (a) O LORD, do I lift up my soul.



(a) I did not put my trust in any worldly thing.
#BCV:Psalms 25:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 25:2>Psalms 25:2</verse></h3>



O my God, I (b) trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me.



(b) That you will take away my enemies, which are your rods.
#BCV:Psalms 25:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 25:4>Psalms 25:4</verse></h3>




(c) Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths.



(c) Retain me in the faith of your promise that I swore not on any side.
#BCV:Psalms 25:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 25:5>Psalms 25:5</verse></h3>



Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou [art] the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait (d) all
the day.



(d) Constantly and against all temptations.
#BCV:Psalms 25:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 25:7>Psalms 25:7</verse></h3>



Remember not the (e) sins of my youth, nor my transgressions: according to thy mercy remember
thou me for thy goodness' sake, O LORD.



(e) He confesses that his many sins were the reason that his enemies persecuted him, desiring that
the cause of the evil may be taken away, so that the effect may cease.
#BCV:Psalms 25:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 25:8>Psalms 25:8</verse></h3>



Good and upright [is] the LORD: therefore will he (f) teach sinners in the way.



(f) That is, call them to repentance.
#BCV:Psalms 25:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 25:9>Psalms 25:9</verse></h3>



The meek will he (g) guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.

<page=1233>(g) He will govern and comfort them that are truly humbled for their sins.
#BCV:Psalms 25:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 25:11>Psalms 25:11</verse></h3>



For thy (h) name's sake, O LORD, pardon mine iniquity; for it [is] great.



(h) For no other respect.
#BCV:Psalms 25:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 25:12>Psalms 25:12</verse></h3>



What (i) man [is] he that feareth the LORD? him shall he teach in the way [that] he shall (k) choose.



(i) Meaning, the number is very small.



(k) He will direct such with his spirit to follow the right way.
#BCV:Psalms 25:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 25:13>Psalms 25:13</verse></h3>



His soul shall dwell at (l) ease; and his seed shall inherit the earth.



(l) He will prosper both in spiritual and corporal things.
#BCV:Psalms 25:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 25:14>Psalms 25:14</verse></h3>



The (m) secret of the LORD [is] with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.



(m) His counsel contained in his word, by which he declares that he is the protector of the faithful.
#BCV:Psalms 25:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 25:17>Psalms 25:17</verse></h3>



The troubles of my heart (n) are enlarged: [O] bring thou me out of my distresses.



(n) My grief is increased because of my enemies cruelty.
#BCV:Psalms 25:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 25:19>Psalms 25:19</verse></h3>



Consider mine (o) enemies; for they are many; and they hate me with cruel hatred.



(o) The greater that his afflictions were and the more that his enemies increased, the more near he
felt God's help.
#BCV:Psalms 25:21
<h3><verse=Psalms 25:21>Psalms 25:21</verse></h3>



Let (p) integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee.

<page=1234>(p) As I have behaved myself uprightly toward my enemies, let them know that you are the defender
of my just cause.

<h2>Psalms 26</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 26:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 26:1>Psalms 26:1</verse></h3>

<page=1235>"[A Psalm] of David." Judge me, (a) O LORD; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted
also in the LORD; [therefore] I shall not slide.



(a) He flees to God to be the judge of his just cause, seeing there is no equity among men.
#BCV:Psalms 26:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 26:2>Psalms 26:2</verse></h3>



Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my (b) reins and my heart.



(b) My very affections and inward motions of the heart.
#BCV:Psalms 26:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 26:3>Psalms 26:3</verse></h3>



For thy (c) lovingkindness [is] before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth.



(c) He shows what stayed him, that he did not recompense evil for evil.
#BCV:Psalms 26:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 26:4>Psalms 26:4</verse></h3>



I have not (d) sat with vain persons, neither will I go in with dissemblers.



(d) He declares that they cannot walk in simplicity before God, that delight in the company of the
ungodly.
#BCV:Psalms 26:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 26:6>Psalms 26:6</verse></h3>



I will (e) wash mine hands in innocency: so will I compass thine altar, O LORD:



(e) I will serve you with a pure affection, and with the godly that sacrifice to you.
#BCV:Psalms 26:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 26:9>Psalms 26:9</verse></h3>




(f) Gather not my soul with sinners, nor my life with bloody men:



(f) Destroy me not in the overthrow of the wicked.
#BCV:Psalms 26:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 26:10>Psalms 26:10</verse></h3>



In whose hands [is] (g) mischief, and their right hand is full of bribes.



(g) Whose cruel hands execute the malicious devises of their hearts.
#BCV:Psalms 26:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 26:12>Psalms 26:12</verse></h3>

<page=1236>My foot standeth in (h) an even place: in the congregations will I bless the LORD.



(h) I am preserved from my enemies by the power of God, and therefore will praise him openly.

<h2>Psalms 27</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 27:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 27:1>Psalms 27:1</verse></h3>

<page=1237>"[A Psalm] of David." The LORD [is] my (a) light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD
[is] the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?



(a) Because he was assured of good success in all his dangers and that his salvation was surely laid
up in God, he did not fear the tyranny of his enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 27:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 27:3>Psalms 27:3</verse></h3>



Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against
me, in (b) this [will] I [be] confident.



(b) That God will deliver me and give my faith the victory.
#BCV:Psalms 27:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 27:4>Psalms 27:4</verse></h3>




(c) One [thing] have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of
the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple.



(c) The loss of country, wife and all worldly conveniences would not grieve me as much as this one
thing, that I may not praise your name in the midst of the congregation.
#BCV:Psalms 27:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 27:6>Psalms 27:6</verse></h3>




(d) And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer
in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.



(d) David assured himself by the Spirit of prophecy that he should overcome his enemies and serve
God in his tabernacle.
#BCV:Psalms 27:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 27:8>Psalms 27:8</verse></h3>



[When thou saidst], (e) Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek.



(e) He grounds on God's promise and shows that he is most willing to obey his commandment.
#BCV:Psalms 27:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 27:10>Psalms 27:10</verse></h3>




(f) When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up.

<page=1238>(f) He magnifies God's love toward his, which far passes the most tender love of parents towards
their children.
#BCV:Psalms 27:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 27:12>Psalms 27:12</verse></h3>



Deliver me not over unto the (g) will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me,
and such as breathe out cruelty.



(g) But either pacify their wrath, or bridle their rage.
#BCV:Psalms 27:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 27:13>Psalms 27:13</verse></h3>



[I had fainted], unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD (h) in the land of the living.



(h) In this present life before I die, as in (<bcv=Isa 38:11>Isa 38:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 27:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 27:14>Psalms 27:14</verse></h3>




(i) Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the
LORD.



(i) He exhorts himself to depend on the Lord seeing he never failed in his promises.

<h2>Psalms 28</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 28:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 28:2>Psalms 28:2</verse></h3>

<page=1239>Hear the voice of my supplications, when I cry unto thee, when I lift up my hands toward thy (b)
holy oracle.



(b) He counts himself as a dead man, till God shows his favour toward him, and grants him his
petition.
#BCV:Psalms 28:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 28:3>Psalms 28:3</verse></h3>




(c) Draw me not away with the wicked, and with the workers of iniquity, which speak peace to their
neighbours, but mischief [is] in their hearts.



(c) Destroy not the good with the bad.
#BCV:Psalms 28:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 28:4>Psalms 28:4</verse></h3>




(d) Give them according to their deeds, and according to the wickedness of their endeavours: give
them after the work of their hands; render to them their desert.



(d) He thus prayed in respect to God's glory and not for his own cause, being assured that God
would punish the persecutors of his Church.
#BCV:Psalms 28:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 28:5>Psalms 28:5</verse></h3>



Because they regard not the works of the LORD, nor the operation of his hands, he shall (e) destroy
them, and not build them up.



(e) Let them be utterly destroyed as in (<bcv=Mal 1:4>Mal 1:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 28:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 28:6>Psalms 28:6</verse></h3>




(f) Blessed [be] the LORD, because he hath heard the voice of my supplications.



(f) Because he felt the assurance of God's help in his heart, his mouth was opened to sing his praises.
#BCV:Psalms 28:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 28:8>Psalms 28:8</verse></h3>



The LORD [is] (g) their strength, and he [is] the saving strength of his anointed.



(g) Meaning his soldiers who were means by which God declared his power.

<h2>Psalms 29</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 29:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 29:1>Psalms 29:1</verse></h3>

<page=1240>"A Psalm of David." Give unto the LORD, O ye (a) mighty, give unto the LORD glory and strength.



(a) He exhorts the proud tyrants to humble themselves under God's hand, and not to be inferior to
brute beasts and dumb creatures.
#BCV:Psalms 29:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 29:3>Psalms 29:3</verse></h3>



The (b) voice of the LORD [is] upon the waters: the God of glory thundereth: the LORD [is] upon
many waters.



(b) The thunder claps that are heard out of the clouds should make the wicked tremble for fear of
God's anger.
#BCV:Psalms 29:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 29:5>Psalms 29:5</verse></h3>



The (c) voice of the LORD breaketh the cedars; yea, the LORD breaketh the cedars of Lebanon.



(c) That is, the thunderbolt breaks the most strong trees, and will men think their power able to
resist God?
#BCV:Psalms 29:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 29:6>Psalms 29:6</verse></h3>



He maketh them also to skip like a calf; Lebanon and (d) Sirion like a young unicorn.



(d) Called also Hermon.
#BCV:Psalms 29:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 29:7>Psalms 29:7</verse></h3>



The voice of the LORD divideth the (e) flames of fire.



(e) It causes the lightnings to shoot and glide.
#BCV:Psalms 29:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 29:8>Psalms 29:8</verse></h3>



The voice of the LORD shaketh the wilderness; the LORD shaketh the wilderness of (f) Kadesh.



(f) In places most desolate, where it seems there is no presence of God.
#BCV:Psalms 29:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 29:9>Psalms 29:9</verse></h3>

<page=1241>The voice of the LORD maketh the hinds to (g) calve, and (h) discovereth the forests: and in his (i)
temple doth every one speak of [his] glory.



(g) For fear makes them deliver their calves.



(h) Makes the trees bare, or pierces the most secret places.



(i) Though the wicked are not moved by these lights, yet the faithful praise God.
#BCV:Psalms 29:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 29:10>Psalms 29:10</verse></h3>



The LORD sitteth upon the (k) flood; yea, the LORD sitteth King for ever.



(k) To moderate the rage of the tempests and waters that they not destroy all.

<h2>Psalms 30</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 30:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 30:1>Psalms 30:1</verse></h3>

<page=1242>"A Psalm [and] Song [at] the dedication of the (a) house of David." I will extol thee, O LORD; (b)
for thou hast lifted me up, and hast not made my foes to rejoice over me.



(a) After Absalom had polluted it with most filthy fornication.



(b) He condemns them for great ingratitude who do not praise God for his benefits.
#BCV:Psalms 30:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 30:2>Psalms 30:2</verse></h3>



O LORD my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast (c) healed me.



(c) Restored from the rebellion of Absalom.
#BCV:Psalms 30:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 30:3>Psalms 30:3</verse></h3>



O LORD, thou hast brought up my (d) soul from the grave: thou hast kept me alive, that I should
not go down to the pit.



(d) Meaning, that he escaped death most narrowly.
#BCV:Psalms 30:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 30:4>Psalms 30:4</verse></h3>



Sing unto the LORD, O ye (e) saints of his, and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness.



(e) The word signifies them who have received mercy, and show mercy liberally to others.
#BCV:Psalms 30:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 30:6>Psalms 30:6</verse></h3>



And in my (g) prosperity I said, I shall never be moved.



(g) I put too much confidence in my quiet state as in (<bcv=Jer 31:18>Jer 31:18</bcv>; <bcv=2Ch 32:24-25>Ch2 32:24-25</bcv>).

#BCV:Psalms 30:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 30:7>Psalms 30:7</verse></h3>



LORD, by thy favour thou hast made my (h) mountain to stand strong: thou didst hide thy face, [and]
I (i) was troubled.



(h) I thought you had established me in Zion most surely.



(i) After you had withdrawn your help, I felt my misery.
#BCV:Psalms 30:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 30:9>Psalms 30:9</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 30:9
<h3><verse=psa 30:9>psa 30:9</verse></h3>



declare thy truth?



(k) David means that the dead are not profitable to the congregation of the Lord here in the earth:
therefore he would live to praise his Name, which is the end of man's creation.
#BCV:Psalms 30:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 30:12>Psalms 30:12</verse></h3>



To the end that [my] (l) glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will
give thanks unto thee for ever.



(l) Because you have preserved me that my tongue should praise you, I will not be unmindful of my
duty.

<h2>Psalms 31</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 31:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:1>Psalms 31:1</verse></h3>

<page=1244>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David." In thee, O LORD, do I put my trust; let me never be
ashamed: deliver me in thy (a) righteousness.



(a) For then God declares himself just, when he preserves his as he has promised.
#BCV:Psalms 31:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:4>Psalms 31:4</verse></h3>



Pull me out of the (b) net that they have laid privily for me: for thou [art] my strength.



(b) Preserve me from the crafty counsels and subtle practise of my enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 31:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:5>Psalms 31:5</verse></h3>



Into thine (c) hand I commit my spirit: thou hast redeemed me, O LORD God of truth.



(c) He desires God not only to take care of him in this life, but that his soul may be saved after this
life.
#BCV:Psalms 31:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:6>Psalms 31:6</verse></h3>



I have hated them that regard lying vanities: but I (d) trust in the LORD.



(d) This affection should be in all God's children to hate whatever is not grounded on a sure trust in
God, as deceitful and vain.
#BCV:Psalms 31:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:8>Psalms 31:8</verse></h3>



And hast not shut me up into the hand of the enemy: thou hast set my feet in a (e) large room.



(e) Largeness signifies comfort, as straitness, sorrow and peril.
#BCV:Psalms 31:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:9>Psalms 31:9</verse></h3>



Have mercy upon me, O LORD, for I am in trouble: mine (f) eye is consumed with grief, [yea], my
soul and my belly.



(f) Meaning, that his sorrow and torment had continued a great while.
#BCV:Psalms 31:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:11>Psalms 31:11</verse></h3>

<page=1245>I was a (g) reproach among all mine enemies, but especially among my neighbours, and a fear to
mine acquaintance: they that did see me without fled from me.



(g) My enemies had drawn all men to their part against me, even my chief friends.
#BCV:Psalms 31:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:13>Psalms 31:13</verse></h3>



For I have heard the slander of (i) many: fear [was] on every side: while they took counsel together
against me, they devised to take away my life.



(i) They who were in authority condemned me as a wicked doer.
#BCV:Psalms 31:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:14>Psalms 31:14</verse></h3>



But I trusted in thee, O LORD: I said, (k) Thou [art] my God.



(k) I had this testimony of conscience, that you would defend my innocence.
#BCV:Psalms 31:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:15>Psalms 31:15</verse></h3>



My (l) times [are] in thy hand: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that
persecute me.



(l) Whatever changes come, you govern them by your providence.
#BCV:Psalms 31:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:17>Psalms 31:17</verse></h3>



Let me not be ashamed, O LORD; for I have called upon thee: let the wicked be ashamed, [and] let
them be (m) silent in the grave.



(m) Let death destroy them to the intent that they may hurt no more.
#BCV:Psalms 31:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:19>Psalms 31:19</verse></h3>



[Oh] how great [is] thy goodness, which thou (n) hast laid up for them that fear thee; [which] thou
hast wrought for them that trust in thee before the sons of men!



(n) The treasures of God's mercy are always laid up in store for his children, even at all times they
do not enjoy them.
#BCV:Psalms 31:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:20>Psalms 31:20</verse></h3>



Thou shalt hide them in the (o) secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them
secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues.

<page=1246>(o) That is, in a place where they will have your comfort, and be hid safely from the enemies pride.
#BCV:Psalms 31:21
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:21>Psalms 31:21</verse></h3>



Blessed [be] the LORD: for he hath shewed me his marvellous kindness in a (p) strong city.



(p) Meaning, there was no city strong enough to preserve him, as the defence of God's favour.
#BCV:Psalms 31:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:22>Psalms 31:22</verse></h3>



For I said in my (q) haste, I am cut off from before thine eyes: nevertheless thou heardest the voice
of my supplications when I cried unto thee.



(q) And so by my rashness and infidelity deserved to have been forsaken.
#BCV:Psalms 31:24
<h3><verse=Psalms 31:24>Psalms 31:24</verse></h3>



Be of good courage, and he shall (r) strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the LORD.



(r) Be constant in your calling, and God will confirm you with heavenly strength.

<h2>Psalms 32</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 32:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 32:1>Psalms 32:1</verse></h3>

<page=1247>"[A Psalm] of David, (a) Maschil." Blessed [is he whose] transgression [is] (b) forgiven, [whose] sin
[is] covered.



(a) Concerning the free remission of sins, which is the chief point of our faith.



(b) To be justified by faith, is to have our sins freely remitted, and to be declared just, (<bcv=Rom 4:6>Rom 4:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 32:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 32:3>Psalms 32:3</verse></h3>



When I kept (c) silence, my bones waxed old through my (d) roaring all the day long.



(c) Between hope and despair.



(d) Was not eased by silence nor crying, signifying that before the sinner is reconciled to God, he
feels a perpetual torment.
#BCV:Psalms 32:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 32:5>Psalms 32:5</verse></h3>



I (e) acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my
transgressions unto the LORD; and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah.



(e) He shows that as God's mercy is the only cause of forgiveness of sins, so the means of it are
repentance and confession which proceed from faith.
#BCV:Psalms 32:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 32:6>Psalms 32:6</verse></h3>



For this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee in a (f) time when thou mayest be found: surely
in the floods of great waters (g) they shall not come nigh unto him.



(f) When necessity causes him to seek you for help, (<bcv=Isa 55:6>Isa 55:6</bcv>).



(g) That is, the waters and great dangers.
#BCV:Psalms 32:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 32:8>Psalms 32:8</verse></h3>



I will (h) instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye.



(h) David promises to make the rest of God's children partakers of the benefits which he felt, and
that he will diligently look and take care to direct them in the way of salvation.
#BCV:Psalms 32:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 32:9>Psalms 32:9</verse></h3>

<page=1248>Be ye not as the horse, [or] as the mule, [which] have no understanding: whose (i) mouth must be
held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee.



(i) If men can rule brute beasts, do they think that God will not bridle and tame their rage?
#BCV:Psalms 32:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 32:11>Psalms 32:11</verse></h3>



Be glad in the LORD, and (k) rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all [ye that are] upright in heart.



(k) He shows that peace and joy of conscience in the Holy Spirit is the fruit of faith.

<h2>Psalms 33</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 33:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 33:1>Psalms 33:1</verse></h3>

<page=1249>Rejoice in the LORD, O ye righteous: [for] praise is (a) comely for the upright.



(a) It is the duty of the godly to set forth the praises of God for his mercy and power showed to
them.
#BCV:Psalms 33:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 33:2>Psalms 33:2</verse></h3>



Praise the LORD with harp: sing unto him with the psaltery [and] an (b) instrument of ten strings.



(b) To sing on instruments, was a part of the ceremonial service of the temple, which does not
belong to us any more than the sacrifices, censors and light.
#BCV:Psalms 33:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 33:4>Psalms 33:4</verse></h3>



For the (c) word of the LORD [is] right; and all his (d) works [are done] in truth.



(c) That is, counsel or command in governing the world.



(d) That is, the effect and execution.
#BCV:Psalms 33:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 33:5>Psalms 33:5</verse></h3>



He (e) loveth righteousness and judgment: the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.



(e) However the world judges God's works, yet he does all things according to justice and mercy.
#BCV:Psalms 33:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 33:7>Psalms 33:7</verse></h3>



He (f) gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap: he layeth up the depth in storehouses.



(f) By the creation of the heavens and beautiful ornament with the gathering also of the waters, he
sets forth the power of God, that all creatures might fear him.
#BCV:Psalms 33:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 33:10>Psalms 33:10</verse></h3>



The LORD bringeth the (g) counsel of the heathen to nought: he maketh the devices of the people
of none effect.



(g) No counsel can prevail against God, but he deserves it, and it will have evil success.
#BCV:Psalms 33:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 33:12>Psalms 33:12</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 33:12
<h3><verse=psa 33:12>psa 33:12</verse></h3>



his own inheritance.



(h) He shows that all our happiness stands in this, that the Lord is our God.
#BCV:Psalms 33:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 33:13>Psalms 33:13</verse></h3>



The LORD (i) looketh from heaven; he beholdeth all the sons of men.



(i) He proves that all things are governed by God's providence and not by fortune.
#BCV:Psalms 33:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 33:15>Psalms 33:15</verse></h3>



He (k) fashioneth their hearts alike; he considereth all their works.



(k) Therefore he knows their wicked enterprises.
#BCV:Psalms 33:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 33:16>Psalms 33:16</verse></h3>



There is no (l) king saved by the multitude of an host: a mighty man is not delivered by much
strength.



(l) If kings and the mighty of the world cannot be saved by worldly means, but only by God's
providence, what do others have to trust in, who have not similar means?
#BCV:Psalms 33:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 33:18>Psalms 33:18</verse></h3>

Behold, (m) the eye of the LORD [is] upon them that fear him, upon them that hope in his mercy;

(m) God shows his mercy toward his, which man by no means is able to compass.
#BCV:Psalms 33:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 33:20>Psalms 33:20</verse></h3>


(n) Our soul waiteth for the LORD: he [is] our help and our shield.



(n) Thus he speaks in the name of the whole Church which only depends on God's providence.

<h2>Psalms 34</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 34:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 34:1>Psalms 34:1</verse></h3>

<page=1251>"[A Psalm] of David, when he changed his behaviour before Abimelech; who drove him away, and
he departed." I will bless the LORD (a) at all times: his praise [shall] continually [be] in my mouth.



(a) He promised never to become unmindful of God's great benefit for his deliverance.
#BCV:Psalms 34:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 34:2>Psalms 34:2</verse></h3>



My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the (b) humble shall hear [thereof], and be glad.



(b) They who are beaten down with the experience of their own evils.
#BCV:Psalms 34:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 34:4>Psalms 34:4</verse></h3>



I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my (c) fears.



(c) Which I conceived for the danger I was in.
#BCV:Psalms 34:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 34:5>Psalms 34:5</verse></h3>



They (d) looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed.



(d) They will be bold to flee to you for help, when they see your mercies toward me.
#BCV:Psalms 34:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 34:7>Psalms 34:7</verse></h3>



The (e) angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them.



(e) Though God's power is sufficient to govern us, yet for man's infirmity he appoints his angels to
watch over us.
#BCV:Psalms 34:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 34:10>Psalms 34:10</verse></h3>



The young (f) lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the LORD shall not (g) want any
good [thing].



(f) The godly by their patient obedience profit more than they who ravage and spoil.



(g) If they abide the last trial.
#BCV:Psalms 34:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 34:11>Psalms 34:11</verse></h3>

<page=1252>Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the (h) fear of the LORD.



(h) That is, the true religion and worship of God.
#BCV:Psalms 34:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 34:12>Psalms 34:12</verse></h3>



What man [is he that] desireth life, [and] loveth [many] days, that he may (i) see good?



(i) Seeing all men naturally desire happiness, he wonders why they cast themselves willingly into
misery.
#BCV:Psalms 34:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 34:16>Psalms 34:16</verse></h3>



The (k) face of the LORD [is] against them that do evil, to cut off the remembrance of them from
the earth.



(k) The anger of God not only destroys the wicked, but also abolishes their name forever.
#BCV:Psalms 34:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 34:18>Psalms 34:18</verse></h3>



The LORD [is] nigh unto them that are of a (l) broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite
spirit.



(l) When they seem to be swallowed up with afflictions, then God is at hand to deliver them.
#BCV:Psalms 34:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 34:20>Psalms 34:20</verse></h3>




(m) He keepeth all his bones: not one of them is broken.



(m) And as Christ says, all the hairs of his head.
#BCV:Psalms 34:21
<h3><verse=Psalms 34:21>Psalms 34:21</verse></h3>



Evil shall slay the (n) wicked: and they that hate the righteous shall be desolate.



(n) Their wicked enterprises will turn to their own destruction.
#BCV:Psalms 34:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 34:22>Psalms 34:22</verse></h3>



The LORD (o) redeemeth the soul of his servants: and none of them that trust in him shall be
desolate.



(o) For when they seem to be overcome with great dangers and death itself, then God shows
himself as their redeemer.

<h2>Psalms 35</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 35:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:8>Psalms 35:8</verse></h3>

<page=1253>Let destruction come upon (f) him at unawares; and let his net that he hath hid catch himself: into (g)
that very destruction let him fall.


(f) When he promises peace to himself.



(g) Which he prepared against the children of God.
#BCV:Psalms 35:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:10>Psalms 35:10</verse></h3>



All my (h) bones shall say, LORD, who [is] like unto thee, which deliverest the poor from him that is
too strong for him, yea, the poor and the needy from him that spoileth him?



(h) He attributes his deliverance only to God, praising him therefore both in soul and body.
#BCV:Psalms 35:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:11>Psalms 35:11</verse></h3>




(i) False witnesses did rise up; they laid to my charge [things] that I knew not.



(i) That would not permit me to purge myself.
#BCV:Psalms 35:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:12>Psalms 35:12</verse></h3>



They rewarded me evil for good [to] the (k) spoiling of my soul.



(k) To have taken from me all comfort and brought me into despair.
#BCV:Psalms 35:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:13>Psalms 35:13</verse></h3>



But as for me, when they were sick, my clothing [was] sackcloth: I humbled my soul with fasting;
and (l) my prayer returned into mine own bosom.



(l) I prayed for them with inward affection, as I would have done for myself: or, I declared my
affection with bowing down my head.
#BCV:Psalms 35:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:15>Psalms 35:15</verse></h3>



But in mine (m) adversity they rejoiced, and gathered themselves together: [yea], the abjects gathered
themselves together against me, and I knew [it] not; they did tear (n) [me], and ceased not:



(m) When they thought me ready to slip and as one that limped for infirmity.

<page=1254>(n) With their railing words.
#BCV:Psalms 35:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:16>Psalms 35:16</verse></h3>



With hypocritical mockers in (o) feasts, they gnashed upon me with their teeth.



(o) The word signifies cakes: meaning that the proud courtiers at their dainty feasts scoff, rail, and
conspire his death.
#BCV:Psalms 35:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:19>Psalms 35:19</verse></h3>



Let not them that are mine enemies wrongfully rejoice over me: [neither] let them (p) wink with the
eye that hate me without a cause.



(p) In token of contempt and mocking.
#BCV:Psalms 35:21
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:21>Psalms 35:21</verse></h3>



Yea, they opened their mouth wide against me, [and] said, Aha, aha, (q) our eye hath seen [it].



(q) They rejoiced as though they had now seen David overthrown.
#BCV:Psalms 35:24
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:24>Psalms 35:24</verse></h3>



Judge me, O LORD my God, according to thy (r) righteousness; and let them not rejoice over me.



(r) It is the justice of God to give to the oppressors affliction and torment, and to the oppressed aid
and relief, (<bcv=II Th 1:6>Th2 1:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 35:25
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:25>Psalms 35:25</verse></h3>



Let them not say in their hearts, (s) Ah, so would we have it: let them not say, We have swallowed
him up.



(s) Because we have that which we sought for, seeing he is destroyed.
#BCV:Psalms 35:26
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:26>Psalms 35:26</verse></h3>



Let them be ashamed and brought to confusion (t) together that rejoice at mine hurt: let them be
clothed (u) with shame and dishonour that magnify [themselves] against me.



(t) That is, at once, were they never so many or mighty.



(u) This prayer will always be verified against them who persecute the faithful.
#BCV:Psalms 35:27
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:27>Psalms 35:27</verse></h3>

<page=1255>Let them shout for joy, and be glad, (x) that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually,
Let the LORD be magnified, which hath pleasure in the (y) prosperity of his servant.



(x) That at least favour my right, though they are not able to help me.



(y) He exhorts the Church to praise God for the deliverance of his servants, and for the destruction
of his adversaries.
#BCV:Psalms 35:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:1>Psalms 35:1</verse></h3>



"[A Psalm] of David." Plead [my (a) cause], O LORD, with them that strive with me: fight against
them that fight against me.



(a) He desires God to undertake his cause against them who persecute him and slander him.
#BCV:Psalms 35:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:2>Psalms 35:2</verse></h3>




(b) Take hold of shield and buckler, and stand up for mine help.



(b) Even though God can with his breath destroy all his enemies, yet the Holy Spirit attributes to
him these outward weapons to assure us of his patient power.
#BCV:Psalms 35:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:3>Psalms 35:3</verse></h3>



Draw out also the spear, and stop [the way] against them that persecute me: say unto my (c) soul, I
[am] thy salvation.



(c) Assure me against these temptations, that you are the author of my salvation.
#BCV:Psalms 35:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:5>Psalms 35:5</verse></h3>



Let them be as chaff before the wind: and let the angel of the LORD (d) chase [them].



(d) Smite them with the spirit of giddiness that their enterprises may be foolish, and they received
just reward.
#BCV:Psalms 35:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 35:7>Psalms 35:7</verse></h3>



For (e) without cause have they hid for me their net [in] a pit, [which] without cause they have
digged for my soul.

<page=1256>(e) Showing that we may not call God to be a revenger but only for his glory, and when our cause is
just.

<h2>Psalms 36</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 36:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 36:1>Psalms 36:1</verse></h3>

<page=1257>"To the chief Musician, [A Psalm] of David the servant of the LORD." The transgression of the
wicked saith (a) within my heart, [that there is] no fear of God before his eyes.



(a) I see evidently by his deeds, that sin pushes forward the reprobate from wickedness to
wickedness, even though he goes about to cover his impiety.
#BCV:Psalms 36:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 36:2>Psalms 36:2</verse></h3>



For he (b) flattereth himself in his own eyes, until his iniquity be found to be hateful.



(b) Though all others detest his vile sin, yet he himself sees it not.
#BCV:Psalms 36:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 36:3>Psalms 36:3</verse></h3>



The words of his mouth [are] iniquity and (c) deceit: he hath left off to be wise, [and] to do good.



(c) The reprobates mock wholesome doctrine, and put no difference between good and evil.
#BCV:Psalms 36:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 36:4>Psalms 36:4</verse></h3>



He (d) deviseth mischief upon his bed; he setteth himself in a way [that is] not good; he abhorreth
not evil.



(d) By describing at large the nature of the reprobate, he admonishes the godly to beware of these
vices.
#BCV:Psalms 36:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 36:5>Psalms 36:5</verse></h3>



Thy (e) mercy, O LORD, [is] in the heavens; [and] thy faithfulness [reacheth] unto the clouds.



(e) Though wickedness seems to overflow all the world, yet by your heavenly providence you govern
heaven and earth.
#BCV:Psalms 36:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 36:6>Psalms 36:6</verse></h3>



Thy righteousness [is] like the great mountains; thy judgments [are] a great (f) deep: O LORD, thou
preservest man and beast.



(f) The depth of your providence governs all things, and disposes them, even though the wicked
seem to overwhelm the world.
#BCV:Psalms 36:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 36:8>Psalms 36:8</verse></h3>

<page=1258>They shall be abundantly (g) satisfied with the fatness of thy house; and thou shalt make them drink
of the river of thy pleasures.



(g) Only God's children have enough of all things both concerning this life and the life to come.
#BCV:Psalms 36:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 36:10>Psalms 36:10</verse></h3>



O continue thy lovingkindness unto them that (h) know thee; and thy righteousness to the upright in
heart.



(h) He shows who God's children are, that is, they who know him, and live their lives uprightly.
#BCV:Psalms 36:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 36:11>Psalms 36:11</verse></h3>



Let not the (i) foot of pride come against me, and let not the hand of the wicked remove me.



(i) Let not the proud advance himself against me, or the power of the wicked drive me away.
#BCV:Psalms 36:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 36:12>Psalms 36:12</verse></h3>




(k) There are the workers of iniquity fallen: they are cast down, and shall not be able to rise.



(k) That is, in their pride in which they flatter themselves.

<h2>Psalms 37</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 37:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:1>Psalms 37:1</verse></h3>

<page=1259>"[A Psalm] of David." Fret not (a) thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the
workers of iniquity.



(a) He admonishes us neither to vex ourselves for the prosperous estate of the wicked, or to desire
to be like them to make our estate better.
#BCV:Psalms 37:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:2>Psalms 37:2</verse></h3>



For they shall soon be (b) cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb.



(b) For God's judgment cuts down their state in a moment.
#BCV:Psalms 37:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:3>Psalms 37:3</verse></h3>




(c) Trust in the LORD, and do good; [so] shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed.



(c) To trust in God and do according to his will are sure signs that his providence will never fail us.
#BCV:Psalms 37:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:5>Psalms 37:5</verse></h3>




(d) Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring [it] to pass.



(d) Do not be led by your own wisdom, but obey God and he will finish his work in you.
#BCV:Psalms 37:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:6>Psalms 37:6</verse></h3>



And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy (e) judgment as the noonday.



(e) As the hope of daylight causes us not to be offended with the darkness of the night so ought we
patiently to trust that God will clear our cause and restore us to our right.
#BCV:Psalms 37:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:7>Psalms 37:7</verse></h3>



Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him (f) who prospereth in
his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.



(f) When God allows the wicked to prosper, it seems to the flesh that he favours their doings, (Job
21:7).
#BCV:Psalms 37:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:8>Psalms 37:8</verse></h3>

<page=1260>Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: (g) fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.



(g) Meaning, unless he moderates his affection, he will be led to do as they do.
#BCV:Psalms 37:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:10>Psalms 37:10</verse></h3>




(h) For yet a little while, and the wicked [shall] not [be]: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place,
and it [shall] not [be].



(y) He corrects the impatience of our nature, which cannot abide till the fulness of God's time is
come.
#BCV:Psalms 37:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:12>Psalms 37:12</verse></h3>




(i) The wicked plotteth against the just, and gnasheth upon him with his teeth.



(i) The godly are assured that the power and craft of the wicked will not prevail against them, but
fall on their own necks and therefore should patiently abide God's time, and in the meanwhile bewail
their sins, and offer up their tears as a sacrifice of their obedience.
#BCV:Psalms 37:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:16>Psalms 37:16</verse></h3>




(k) A little that a righteous man hath [is] better than the riches of many wicked.



(k) For they are daily fed as with manna from heaven and have sufficient, while the wicked never
have enough, but always hunger.
#BCV:Psalms 37:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:18>Psalms 37:18</verse></h3>



The LORD (l) knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever.



(l) God knows what dangers hang over his, and by what means to deliver them.
#BCV:Psalms 37:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:19>Psalms 37:19</verse></h3>



They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall (m) be satisfied.



(m) For God will give them contented minds, and that which will be necessary.
#BCV:Psalms 37:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:20>Psalms 37:20</verse></h3>



But the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the LORD [shall be] as the (n) fat of lambs: they
shall consume; into smoke shall they consume away.



(n) They will vanish away suddenly for they are fed for the day of slaughter.
#BCV:Psalms 37:21
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:21>Psalms 37:21</verse></h3>

<page=1261>The wicked borroweth, and payeth not again: but the righteous sheweth mercy, and (o) giveth.



(o) God so furnishes him with high blessings, that he is able to help others.
#BCV:Psalms 37:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:23>Psalms 37:23</verse></h3>




(p) The steps of a [good] man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.



(p) God prospers the faithful because they walk in his ways with an upright conscience.
#BCV:Psalms 37:24
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:24>Psalms 37:24</verse></h3>



Though he (q) fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth [him with] his hand.



(q) When God exercises his faith with various temptations.
#BCV:Psalms 37:25
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:25>Psalms 37:25</verse></h3>



I have been young, and [now] am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his (r) seed
begging bread.



(r) Though the just man die, yet God's blessings are extended to his posterity and though God suffer
some just man to lack temporal benefits, yet he recompenses him with spiritual treasures.
#BCV:Psalms 37:29
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:29>Psalms 37:29</verse></h3>



The righteous shall inherit the land, and dwell therein (s) for ever.



(s) They will continually be preserved under God's wings, and have at least inward rest.
#BCV:Psalms 37:30
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:30>Psalms 37:30</verse></h3>



The (t) mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment.



(t) These three points are required from the faithful, that their talk is godly, that God's law is in their
heart, and that their life is upright.
#BCV:Psalms 37:33
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:33>Psalms 37:33</verse></h3>



The LORD will not leave him in his hand, nor condemn him when he is (u) judged.

<page=1262>(u) For though it is sometimes so expedient both for God's glory and their salvation, yet he will
approve their cause and avenge their wrong.
#BCV:Psalms 37:36
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:36>Psalms 37:36</verse></h3>



Yet he (x) passed away, and, lo, he [was] not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.



(x) So that the prosperity of the wicked is but as a cloud, which vanishes away in a moment.
#BCV:Psalms 37:37
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:37>Psalms 37:37</verse></h3>




(y) Mark the perfect [man], and behold the upright: for the end of [that] man [is] peace.



(y) He exhorts the faithful to mark diligently the examples both of God's mercies, and also of his
judgments.
#BCV:Psalms 37:39
<h3><verse=Psalms 37:39>Psalms 37:39</verse></h3>



But the (z) salvation of the righteous [is] of the LORD: [he is] their strength in the time of trouble.



(z) He shows that the patient hope of the godly is never in vain, but in the end has good success,
though for a time God proves them by various temptations.

<h2>Psalms 38</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 38:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 38:1>Psalms 38:1</verse></h3>

<page=1263>"A Psalm of David, to bring to (a) remembrance." O LORD, rebuke me not in thy (b) wrath: neither
chasten me in thy hot displeasure.



(a) To put himself and others in mind of God's chastisement for sin.



(b) He desires not to be exempted from God's rod, but that he would so moderate his hand, that he
might be able to bear it.
#BCV:Psalms 38:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 38:2>Psalms 38:2</verse></h3>



For thine (c) arrows stick fast in me, and thy hand presseth me sore.



(c) Your sickness, with which you have visited me.
#BCV:Psalms 38:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 38:3>Psalms 38:3</verse></h3>



[There is] no soundness in my flesh because of thine anger; neither [is there any] rest in my bones
because of my (d) sin.



(d) David acknowledges God to be just in his punishments, because his sins had deserved much
more.
#BCV:Psalms 38:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 38:4>Psalms 38:4</verse></h3>



For mine (e) iniquities are gone over mine head: as an heavy burden they are too heavy for me.



(e) He confesses his sins, God's justice, and makes prayer his refuge.
#BCV:Psalms 38:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 38:5>Psalms 38:5</verse></h3>



My wounds stink [and] are corrupt because of (f) my foolishness.



(f) That rather gave place to my own lusts, than to the will of God.
#BCV:Psalms 38:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 38:8>Psalms 38:8</verse></h3>



I am feeble and sore broken: I (g) have roared by reason of the disquietness of my heart.



(g) This example warns us never to despair, no matter how great the torment: but always to cry to
God with sure trust for deliverance.
#BCV:Psalms 38:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 38:10>Psalms 38:10</verse></h3>

<page=1264>My heart panteth, my strength faileth me: as for the light of mine eyes, (h) it also is gone from me.



(h) My sight fails me for sorrow.
#BCV:Psalms 38:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 38:11>Psalms 38:11</verse></h3>



My lovers and my friends stand aloof from my sore; and my (i) kinsmen stand afar off.



(i) Partly for fear and partly for pride, they denied all duty and friendship.
#BCV:Psalms 38:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 38:13>Psalms 38:13</verse></h3>



But I, as a (k) deaf [man], heard not; and [I was] as a dumb man [that] openeth not his mouth.



(k) For I can have no audience before men, and therefore patiently wait for the help of God.
#BCV:Psalms 38:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 38:16>Psalms 38:16</verse></h3>



For I said, [Hear me], lest [otherwise] they should rejoice over me: (l) when my foot slippeth, they
magnify [themselves] against me.



(l) That is, if they see that you do not help me in time, they will mock and triumph as though you
had forsaken me.
#BCV:Psalms 38:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 38:17>Psalms 38:17</verse></h3>



For I [am] ready to (m) halt, and my sorrow [is] continually before me.



(m) I am without hope to recover my strength.
#BCV:Psalms 38:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 38:19>Psalms 38:19</verse></h3>



But mine (n) enemies [are] lively, [and] they are strong: and they that hate me wrongfully are
multiplied.



(n) In my greatest misery they most rejoice.
#BCV:Psalms 38:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 38:20>Psalms 38:20</verse></h3>



They also that render evil for good are mine adversaries; because I follow [the thing that] (o) good
[is].

<page=1265>(o) He would rather have the hatred of all the world, than fail in any part of his duty to God.
#BCV:Psalms 38:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 38:22>Psalms 38:22</verse></h3>



Make haste to help me, O Lord my (p) salvation.



(p) Who is the author of my salvation: and this declares that he prayed with sure hope of
deliverance.

<h2>Psalms 39</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 39:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 39:1>Psalms 39:1</verse></h3>

<page=1266>"To the chief Musician, [even] to (a) Jeduthun, A Psalm of David." I said, (b) I will take heed to my
ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before
me.



(a) This was one of the chief singers, (<bcv=1Ch 16:41>Ch1 16:41</bcv>).


(b) Although he had appointed with himself patiently to have wait for God's timing, yet the
vehemency of his pain caused him to break his purpose.
#BCV:Psalms 39:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 39:2>Psalms 39:2</verse></h3>



I was dumb with silence, I held my peace, [even] from good; (c) and my sorrow was stirred.



(c) Though when the wicked ruled he thought to have kept silence, yet his zeal caused him to change
his mind.
#BCV:Psalms 39:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 39:3>Psalms 39:3</verse></h3>



My heart was hot within me, while I was musing the fire burned: [then] (d) spake I with my tongue,



(d) He confesses that he grudged against God, considering the greatness of his sorrows, and the
shortness of his life.
#BCV:Psalms 39:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 39:5>Psalms 39:5</verse></h3>



Behold, thou hast made my days [as] an handbreadth; and mine age [is] as nothing before thee: verily
every man at his best state [is] altogether (e) vanity. Selah.



(e) Yet David offended in that he reasoned with God as though he were too severe toward his weak
creature.
#BCV:Psalms 39:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 39:8>Psalms 39:8</verse></h3>



Deliver me from all my transgressions: make me not the reproach of the (f) foolish.



(f) Do not make me a laughing stock to the wicked, wrap me up with the wicked when they are put
to shame.
#BCV:Psalms 39:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 39:9>Psalms 39:9</verse></h3>

<page=1267>I was dumb, I opened not my mouth; because (g) thou didst [it].



(g) Seeing my troubles came from your providence, I ought to have endured them patiently.
#BCV:Psalms 39:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 39:11>Psalms 39:11</verse></h3>



When thou with rebukes dost correct man for iniquity, thou (h) makest his (i) beauty to consume
away like a moth: surely every man [is] vanity. Selah.



(h) Though your open plagues do not light on them forever, yet your secret curse continually frets
them.



(i) The word signifies all that he desires, as health, force, strength, beauty, and in whatever he has
delight, so that the rod of God takes away all that is desired in this world.
#BCV:Psalms 39:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 39:13>Psalms 39:13</verse></h3>



O spare me, that I may recover strength, (k) before I go hence, and be no more.



(k) For his sorrow caused him to think that God would destroy him completely, by which we see
how hard it is for the saints to keep a measure in their words, when death and despair assails them.

<h2>Psalms 40</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 40:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 40:1>Psalms 40:1</verse></h3>

<page=1268>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David." I waited (a) patiently for the LORD; and he inclined
unto me, and heard my cry.



(a) Though God deferred his help, yet he patiently abode till he was heard.
#BCV:Psalms 40:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 40:2>Psalms 40:2</verse></h3>



He brought me up also out of an (b) horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock,
[and] established my goings.



(b) He has delivered me from great dangers.
#BCV:Psalms 40:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 40:3>Psalms 40:3</verse></h3>



And he hath put (c) a new song in my mouth, [even] praise unto our God: many shall see [it], and
fear, and shall trust in the LORD.



(c) That is, a special opportunity to praise him, for God's benefits are so many opportunities for us
to praise his Name.
#BCV:Psalms 40:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 40:4>Psalms 40:4</verse></h3>



Blessed [is] that man that maketh the LORD his trust, and respecteth (d) not the proud, nor such as
turn aside to lies.



(d) To follow their example, which he must do who trusts not only in the Lord.
#BCV:Psalms 40:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 40:5>Psalms 40:5</verse></h3>



Many, (e) O LORD my God, [are] thy wonderful works [which] thou hast done, and thy thoughts
[which are] to us-ward: they cannot be reckoned up in order unto thee: [if] I would declare and speak
[of them], they are more than can be numbered.



(e) David goes from one king of God's favour to the contemplation of his providence over all, and
confesses that his counsels toward us are far above our capacities, we cannot so much as tell them in
order.
#BCV:Psalms 40:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 40:6>Psalms 40:6</verse></h3>

<page=1269>Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire; (f) mine ears hast thou opened: burnt offering and sin
offering hast thou not required.



(f) You have opened my ears to understand the spiritual meaning of the sacrifices: and here David
esteems the ceremonies of the law as nothing in respect to the spiritual service.
#BCV:Psalms 40:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 40:7>Psalms 40:7</verse></h3>




(g) Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book [it is] written of me,



(g) When you had opened my ears and heart, I was ready to obey you, being assured that I was
written in the book of your elect for this end.
#BCV:Psalms 40:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 40:9>Psalms 40:9</verse></h3>



I have preached righteousness in the (h) great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O
LORD, thou knowest.



(h) In the Church assembled in the sanctuary.
#BCV:Psalms 40:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 40:10>Psalms 40:10</verse></h3>



I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy (i) faithfulness and thy
salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation.



(i) David here numbers three degrees of our salvation: God's mercy, by which he pities us, his
righteousness which signifies his continual protection and his truth, by which appears his constant
favour, so that from this our salvation proceeds.
#BCV:Psalms 40:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 40:12>Psalms 40:12</verse></h3>



For innumerable evils have compassed me about: mine iniquities have taken hold upon me, so that I
am not able to look up; they are more than the hairs of mine head: therefore my heart (k) faileth me.



(k) Concerning the judgment of the flesh, I was utterly destitute of all counsel, yet faith inwardly
moved my heart to pray.
#BCV:Psalms 40:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 40:14>Psalms 40:14</verse></h3>



Let them be (l) ashamed and confounded together that seek after my soul to destroy it; let them be
driven backward and put to shame that wish me evil.



(l) He desires that God's mercy may contend for him against the rage of his enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 40:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 40:15>Psalms 40:15</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 40:15
<h3><verse=psa 40:15>psa 40:15</verse></h3>




(m) Let the same shame and confusion come on them, which they intended to have brought on me.
#BCV:Psalms 40:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 40:16>Psalms 40:16</verse></h3>



Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: let such as love thy salvation say continually,



(n) The LORD be magnified.



(n) As the faithful always praise God for his benefits, so the wicked mocked God's children in their
afflictions.

<h2>Psalms 41</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 41:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 41:1>Psalms 41:1</verse></h3>

<page=1271>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David." Blessed [is] he that (a) considereth the poor: the LORD
will deliver him in time of trouble.



(a) Not condemning him as accused whom God visits, knowing that there are various reasons why
God lays his hand on us, yea and afterwards he restores us.
#BCV:Psalms 41:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 41:3>Psalms 41:3</verse></h3>



The LORD will strengthen him upon the (b) bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his (c) bed in his
sickness.



(b) When for sorrow and grief of mind he calls himself on his bed.



(c) You have restored him in his sick bed and sent him comfort.
#BCV:Psalms 41:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 41:5>Psalms 41:5</verse></h3>



Mine enemies (d) speak evil of me, When shall he die, and his name perish?



(d) That is, curse me and cannot have their cruel hate quenched but with my shameful death.
#BCV:Psalms 41:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 41:6>Psalms 41:6</verse></h3>



And if he come to see [me], he speaketh (e) vanity: his heart gathereth iniquity to itself; [when] he
goeth abroad, he telleth [it].



(e) For pretending to comfort me, he conspires my death in his heart, and brags of it.
#BCV:Psalms 41:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 41:8>Psalms 41:8</verse></h3>




(f) An evil disease, [say they], cleaveth fast unto him: and [now] that he lieth he shall rise up no more.



(f) The enemies thought by his sharp punishments that God had become his mortal enemy.
#BCV:Psalms 41:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 41:9>Psalms 41:9</verse></h3>



Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, (g) hath lifted up [his]
heel against me.



(g) As David felt this falsehood, and as it was chiefly accomplished in Christ, (<bcv=John 13:18>Joh 13:18</bcv>) so shall his
members continually prove the same.
#BCV:Psalms 41:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 41:12>Psalms 41:12</verse></h3>

<page=1272>And as for me, thou upholdest me (h) in mine integrity, and settest me before thy (i) face for ever.



(h) Meaning, either in prosperity of life or in the true fear of God against all temptation.



(i) Showing me evident signs of your fatherly providence.
#BCV:Psalms 41:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 41:13>Psalms 41:13</verse></h3>



Blessed [be] the LORD God of Israel from everlasting, and to everlasting. (k) Amen, and Amen.



(k) By this repetition he stirs up the faithful to praise God.

<h2>Psalms 42</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 42:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 42:1>Psalms 42:1</verse></h3>

<page=1273>"To the chief Musician, Maschil, (a) for the sons of Korah." As the hart (b) panteth after the water
brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God.



(a) As a treasure to be kept by them, who were of the number of the Levites.



(b) By these comparisons of the thirst and panting, he shows his fervent desire to serve God in his
temple.
#BCV:Psalms 42:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 42:3>Psalms 42:3</verse></h3>




(c) My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where [is] thy
God?



(c) As others take pleasure in eating and drinking, so he was altogether given to weeping.
#BCV:Psalms 42:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 42:4>Psalms 42:4</verse></h3>



When I remember (d) these [things], I pour out my soul in me: for I had gone with the multitude, I
went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept
holyday.



(d) That is, how I led the people to serve you in your tabernacle, and now seeing my contrary estate,
I die for sorrow.
#BCV:Psalms 42:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 42:5>Psalms 42:5</verse></h3>



Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and [why] art thou disquieted in me? (e) hope thou in God: for
I shall yet praise him [for] the help of his countenance.



(e) Though he sustained grievous assaults of the flesh to cast him into despair, yet his faith
grounded on God's accustomed mercies gets the victory.
#BCV:Psalms 42:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 42:6>Psalms 42:6</verse></h3>



O my God, my soul is cast down within me: (f) therefore will I remember thee from the land of
Jordan, and of the Hermonites, from the hill Mizar.



(f) That is, when I remember you in this land of my banishment among the mountains.
#BCV:Psalms 42:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 42:7>Psalms 42:7</verse></h3>


<page=1274>(g) Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts: all thy waves and thy billows are gone
over me.



(g) Afflictions came so thick upon me that I felt overwhelmed: by which he shows there is no end to
our misery till God is pacified and sends help.
#BCV:Psalms 42:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 42:8>Psalms 42:8</verse></h3>



[Yet] the LORD (h) will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song [shall
be] with me, [and] my prayer unto the God of my life.



(h) He assures himself of God's help in time to come.
#BCV:Psalms 42:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 42:10>Psalms 42:10</verse></h3>



[As] with a sword in my (i) bones, mine enemies reproach me; while they say daily unto me, Where
[is] thy God?



(i) That is, I am most grievously tormented.
#BCV:Psalms 42:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 42:11>Psalms 42:11</verse></h3>




(k) Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God:
for I shall yet praise him, [who is] the health of my countenance, and my God.



(k) This repetition declares that David did not overcome at once, to teach us to be constant, for as
much as God will certainly deliver his.

<h2>Psalms 43</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 43:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 43:1>Psalms 43:1</verse></h3>

<page=1275>Judge (a) me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly (b) nation: O deliver me from the
deceitful and unjust man.



(a) He desires God to undertake his cause against the enemies but chiefly that he would restore him
to the tabernacle.



(b) That is, the cruel company of my enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 43:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 43:3>Psalms 43:3</verse></h3>



O send out thy (c) light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to
thy tabernacles.



(c) That is, your favour which appears by the performance of your promises.
#BCV:Psalms 43:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 43:4>Psalms 43:4</verse></h3>



Then (d) will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I
praise thee, O God my God.



(d) He promises to offer a solemn sacrifice of thanksgiving in token of his great deliverance.
#BCV:Psalms 43:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 43:5>Psalms 43:5</verse></h3>



Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? (e) hope in God: for I
shall yet praise him, [who is] the health of my countenance, and my God.



(e) By which he admonishes the faithful not to relent but constantly to wait on the Lord, though
their troubles are long and great.

<h2>Psalms 44</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 44:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:1>Psalms 44:1</verse></h3>

<page=1276>"To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, Maschil." We have heard with our (a) ears, O God,
our fathers have told us, [what] work thou didst in their days, in the times of old.



(a) This psalm seems to have been made by some excellent prophet for the use of the people when
the Church was in extreme misery, either at their return from Babylon or under Antiochus or in
similar afflictions.
#BCV:Psalms 44:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:2>Psalms 44:2</verse></h3>



[How] thou didst drive out the (b) heathen with thy hand, and plantedst (c) them; [how] thou didst
afflict the (d)
people, and (e) cast them out.



(b) That is, the Canaanites.



(c) That is, our fathers.



(d) Of Canaan.



(e) That is, our fathers.
#BCV:Psalms 44:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:3>Psalms 44:3</verse></h3>



For they got not the land in possession by their own sword, neither did their own arm save them:
but thy right hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy countenance, because thou hadst a (f) favour
unto them.



(f) God's free mercy and love is the only fountain and beginning of the Church, (<bcv=Deu 4:37>Deu 4:37</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 44:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:4>Psalms 44:4</verse></h3>



Thou art my King, O God: command deliverances for (g) Jacob.



(g) Because you are our king, therefore deliver your people from their misery.
#BCV:Psalms 44:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:5>Psalms 44:5</verse></h3>




(h) Through thee will we push down our enemies: through thy name will we tread them under that
rise up against us.

<page=1277>(h) Because they and their forefathers made both one Church, they apply that to themselves which
before they attributed to their fathers.
#BCV:Psalms 44:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:9>Psalms 44:9</verse></h3>



But thou hast cast off, and put us to (i) shame; and goest not forth with our armies.



(i) As they confessed before that their strength came from God, so now they acknowledge that this
affliction came by his just judgment.
#BCV:Psalms 44:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:11>Psalms 44:11</verse></h3>



Thou hast given us (k) like sheep [appointed] for meat; and hast scattered us among the heathen.



(k) Knowing God to be author of this calamity, they murmur not, but seek remedy at his hands who
wounded them.
#BCV:Psalms 44:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:12>Psalms 44:12</verse></h3>



Thou sellest thy people (l) for nought, and dost not increase [thy wealth] by their price.



(l) As slaves who are sold for a low price, you do not look for him who offers the most, but take the
first offer.
#BCV:Psalms 44:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:15>Psalms 44:15</verse></h3>



My (m) confusion [is] continually before me, and the shame of my face hath covered me,



(m) I dare not lift up my head for shame.
#BCV:Psalms 44:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:16>Psalms 44:16</verse></h3>



For the voice of him that reproacheth and blasphemeth; by reason of the enemy and (n) avenger.



(n) Meaning, the proud and cruel tyrant.
#BCV:Psalms 44:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:17>Psalms 44:17</verse></h3>



All this is come upon us; yet have we not (o) forgotten thee, neither have we dealt falsely in thy
covenant.



(o) They boast not of their virtues, but declare that they rest on God in the midst of their affliction:
who did not punished their sins now, but by hard afflictions called them to the consideration of the
heavenly joys.
#BCV:Psalms 44:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:20>Psalms 44:20</verse></h3>

<page=1278>If we have forgotten the name of our God, or stretched out our hands to a (p) strange god;



(p) They show that they honoured God correctly, because they trusted in him alone.
#BCV:Psalms 44:21
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:21>Psalms 44:21</verse></h3>



Shall not God (q) search this out? for he knoweth the secrets of the heart.



(q) They take God to witness that they were upright toward him.
#BCV:Psalms 44:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:22>Psalms 44:22</verse></h3>



Yea, for thy sake (r) are we killed all the day long; we are counted as sheep for the slaughter.



(r) The faithful take comfort in this, that the wicked punish them not for their sins, but for because
of God, (<bcv=Mat 5:10>Mat 5:10</bcv>; <bcv=1Pe 4:14>Pe1 4:14</bcv>).

#BCV:Psalms 44:25
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:25>Psalms 44:25</verse></h3>



For our soul is (s) bowed down to the dust: our belly cleaveth unto the earth.



(s) There is no hope of recovery, unless you raise us up with your hand.
#BCV:Psalms 44:26
<h3><verse=Psalms 44:26>Psalms 44:26</verse></h3>



Arise for our help, and redeem us for thy (t) mercies' sake.



(t) Which is the only sufficient ransom to deliver both body and souls from all kinds of slavery and
misery.

<h2>Psalms 45</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 45:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 45:1>Psalms 45:1</verse></h3>

<page=1279>"To the chief Musician upon (a) Shoshannim, for the sons of Korah, Maschil, A Song of (b) loves."

My heart is inditing a good matter: I speak of the things which I have made touching the king: my
tongue [is] the pen of a ready writer.



(a) This was a certain tune of an instrument.



(b) Of that perfect love that ought to be between the husband and the wife.
#BCV:Psalms 45:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 45:2>Psalms 45:2</verse></h3>



Thou art (c) fairer than the children of men: grace is poured into thy lips: therefore God hath
blessed thee for ever.



(c) Solomon's beauty and eloquence to win favour with his people, and his power to overcome his
enemies, is here described.
#BCV:Psalms 45:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 45:4>Psalms 45:4</verse></h3>



And in thy majesty (d) ride prosperously because of truth and meekness [and] righteousness; and thy
right hand shall teach thee terrible things.



(d) He alludes to them, who ride in chariots in their triumphs, showing that the quiet state of a
kingdom stands in truth, meekness and justice, and not in worldly pomp and vanity.
#BCV:Psalms 45:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 45:6>Psalms 45:6</verse></h3>



Thy (e) throne, O God, [is] for ever and ever: the sceptre of thy kingdom [is] a right sceptre.



(e) Under this figure of this kingdom of justice is set forth the everlasting kingdom of Christ.
#BCV:Psalms 45:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 45:7>Psalms 45:7</verse></h3>



Thou lovest righteousness, and hatest wickedness: therefore God, thy God, hath (f) anointed thee
with the oil of gladness above thy fellows.



(f) Has established your kingdom as the figure of Christ, which is the peace and joy of the Church.
#BCV:Psalms 45:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 45:8>Psalms 45:8</verse></h3>

<page=1280>All thy garments [smell] of myrrh, and aloes, [and] cassia, out of the ivory palaces, (g) whereby they
have made thee glad.



(g) In which the people made you joyful to see them give thanks and rejoice for you.
#BCV:Psalms 45:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 45:9>Psalms 45:9</verse></h3>



Kings' daughters [were] among thy honourable women: upon thy right hand did stand the (h) queen
in gold of Ophir.



(h) Though he had many king's daughters among his wives, yet he found Pharaoh's daughter best.
#BCV:Psalms 45:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 45:10>Psalms 45:10</verse></h3>




(i) Hearken, O daughter, and consider, and incline thine ear; forget also thine own people, and thy
father's house;



(i) Under the figure of Pharaoh's daughter, he shows that the Church must cast off all carnal
affections to obey Christ only.
#BCV:Psalms 45:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 45:12>Psalms 45:12</verse></h3>



And the (k) daughter of Tyre [shall be there] with a gift; [even] the rich among the people shall
intreat thy favour.



(k) He signifies that many of those who are rich will be benefactors to the Church, although they do
not give perfect obedience to the Gospel.
#BCV:Psalms 45:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 45:13>Psalms 45:13</verse></h3>



The king's daughter [is] all glorious (l) within: her clothing [is] of wrought gold.



(l) There is nothing feigned or hypocritical but she is glorious both within and without: and even
though the Church has not always had this outward glory, the fault is to be imputed only to their
own ingratitude.
#BCV:Psalms 45:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 45:16>Psalms 45:16</verse></h3>



Instead of thy fathers shall be thy (m) children, whom thou mayest make princes (n) in all the earth.



(m) They will have greater graces than their fathers.



(n) He signifies the great compass of Christ's kingdom, which will be sufficient to enrich all his
members.
#BCV:Psalms 45:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 45:17>Psalms 45:17</verse></h3>

<page=1281>I will make thy (o) name to be remembered in all generations: therefore shall the people praise thee
for ever and ever.



(o) This must only be referred to Christ and not to Solomon.

<h2>Psalms 46</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 46:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 46:1>Psalms 46:1</verse></h3>

<page=1282>"To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon (a) Alamoth." God [is] our refuge and
strength, a very present help in (b) trouble.



(a) Which was either a musical instrument or a solemn tune, to which this psalm was sung.



(b) In all manner of troubles God shows his speedy mercy and power in defending his.
#BCV:Psalms 46:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 46:2>Psalms 46:2</verse></h3>



Therefore will not we (c) fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried
into the midst of the sea;



(c) That is, we will not be overcome with fear.
#BCV:Psalms 46:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 46:3>Psalms 46:3</verse></h3>



[Though] the waters thereof (d) roar [and] be troubled, [though] the mountains shake with the
swelling thereof. Selah.



(d) Though the afflictions rage, yet the rivers of God's mercies bring sufficient comfort to his.
#BCV:Psalms 46:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 46:4>Psalms 46:4</verse></h3>



[There is] a (e) river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy [place] of the
tabernacles of the most High.



(e) The river of Shiloh, which passed through Jerusalem: meaning, though the defence seems small,
yet if God has appointed it, it is sufficient.
#BCV:Psalms 46:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 46:5>Psalms 46:5</verse></h3>



God [is] in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, [and that] (f) right early.



(f) Always when need requires.
#BCV:Psalms 46:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 46:7>Psalms 46:7</verse></h3>



The LORD of hosts [is] (g) with us; the God of Jacob [is] our refuge. Selah.



(g) They are assured that God can and will defend his Church from all dangers and enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 46:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 46:8>Psalms 46:8</verse></h3>

<page=1283>Come, behold the works of the LORD, (h) what desolations he hath made in the earth.



(h) That is, how often he has destroyed his enemies, and delivered his people.
#BCV:Psalms 46:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 46:10>Psalms 46:10</verse></h3>



Be (i) still, and know that I [am] God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the
earth.



(i) He warns them who persecute the Church to cease their cruelty: for also they will feel that God is
too strong for them against whom they fight.

<h2>Psalms 47</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 47:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 47:1>Psalms 47:1</verse></h3>

<page=1284>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm for the sons of Korah." O (a) clap your hands, all ye people; shout
unto God with the voice of triumph.



(a) Here is figured Christ to whom all his should give willing obedience, and who would show
himself terrible to the wicked.
#BCV:Psalms 47:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 47:3>Psalms 47:3</verse></h3>



He shall (b) subdue the people under us, and the nations under our feet.



(b) He has made the Jews who were the keepers of the law and prophets, schoolmasters to the
Gentiles, that they would with gladness obey them.
#BCV:Psalms 47:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 47:4>Psalms 47:4</verse></h3>



He shall choose (c) our inheritance for us, the excellency of Jacob whom he loved. Selah.



(c) God has chosen us above all other nations, to enjoy a most glorious inheritance.
#BCV:Psalms 47:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 47:5>Psalms 47:5</verse></h3>



God is gone up with a shout, the LORD with the (d) sound of a trumpet.



(d) He alludes to the trumpets that were blown at solemn feasts: but he further signifies the triumph
of Christ and his glorious ascension into the heavens.
#BCV:Psalms 47:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 47:7>Psalms 47:7</verse></h3>



For God [is] the King of all the earth: sing ye praises with (e) understanding.



(e) He requires that understanding be joined with singing, lest the Name of God be profaned with
vain crying.
#BCV:Psalms 47:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 47:9>Psalms 47:9</verse></h3>



The princes of the people are gathered together, [even] the people of the God of Abraham: for the
shields of the earth [belong] unto God: he (f) is greatly exalted.



(f) He praises God's highness, for that he joins the great princes of the world (whom he calls shields)
to the fellowship of his Church.

<h2>Psalms 48</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 48:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 48:1>Psalms 48:1</verse></h3>

<page=1285>"(a) A Song [and] Psalm for the sons of Korah." Great [is] the LORD, and greatly to be praised in
the (b) city of our God, [in] the mountain of his holiness.



(a) Some put this difference between a song and psalm, saying that it is called a song when there is
no instrument but the voice, and the song of the psalm is when the instruments begin and the voice
follows.



(b) Even though God shows his wonders through all the world, yet he will be chiefly praised in his
Church.
#BCV:Psalms 48:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 48:2>Psalms 48:2</verse></h3>



Beautiful for situation, the (c) joy of the whole earth, [is] mount Zion, [on] the sides of the north,
the city of the great King.



(c) Because the word of salvation came there to all who would believe.
#BCV:Psalms 48:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 48:3>Psalms 48:3</verse></h3>



God is known in her palaces for a (d) refuge.



(d) Unless God is the defence of it, neither situation nor munition can prevail.
#BCV:Psalms 48:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 48:4>Psalms 48:4</verse></h3>



For, lo, the kings were (e) assembled, they passed by together.



(e) They conspired and went against God's people.
#BCV:Psalms 48:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 48:5>Psalms 48:5</verse></h3>



They saw [(f) it, and] so they marvelled; they were troubled, [and] hasted away.



(f) The enemies were afraid at the sight of the city.
#BCV:Psalms 48:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 48:7>Psalms 48:7</verse></h3>



Thou breakest the ships (g) of Tarshish with an east wind.



(g) That is, of Cilicia or of the Mediterranean sea.
#BCV:Psalms 48:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 48:8>Psalms 48:8</verse></h3>

<page=1286>As we have (h) heard, so have we seen in the city of the LORD of hosts, in the city of our God:
God will establish it for ever. Selah.



(h) That is, of our fathers: so have we proved: or God has performed his promise.
#BCV:Psalms 48:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 48:10>Psalms 48:10</verse></h3>



According to thy name, O God, so [is] thy praise unto the ends of the (i) earth: thy right hand is full
of righteousness.



(i) In all places where your Name will be heard of, men will praise you when they hear of your
marvellous works.
#BCV:Psalms 48:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 48:11>Psalms 48:11</verse></h3>



Let (k) mount Zion rejoice, let the daughters of Judah be glad, because of thy judgments.



(k) Let Jerusalem and the cities of Judea rejoice, for your just judgments against your enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 48:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 48:12>Psalms 48:12</verse></h3>




(l) Walk about Zion, and go round about her: tell the towers thereof.



(l) For in this outward defence and strength God's blessings also appeared, but the chief is to be
referred to God's favour and secret defence, who never leaves his.

<h2>Psalms 49</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 49:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 49:1>Psalms 49:1</verse></h3>

<page=1287>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm for the sons of Korah." Hear (a) this, all [ye] people; give ear, all [ye]
inhabitants of the world:



(a) He will intreat how God governs the world by his providence which cannot be perceived by the
judgment of the flesh.
#BCV:Psalms 49:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 49:5>Psalms 49:5</verse></h3>



Wherefore should I (b) fear in the days of evil, [when] the iniquity of my heels shall compass me
about?



(b) Though wickedness reigns and enemies rage, seeing God will execute his judgments against the
wicked at a suitable time.
#BCV:Psalms 49:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 49:6>Psalms 49:6</verse></h3>



They that trust in their (c) wealth, and boast themselves in the multitude of their riches;



(c) To trust in riches is madness, seeing they can neither restore life, nor prolong it.
#BCV:Psalms 49:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 49:8>Psalms 49:8</verse></h3>




(For the redemption of their soul [is] (d) precious, (e) and it ceaseth for ever:)



(d) That is, so rare or not to be found, as prophecy was precious in the days of Eli, (<bcv=I Sa 3:1>Sa1 3:1</bcv>).



(e) Meaning it is impossible to live for ever: also that life and death are only in God's hands.
#BCV:Psalms 49:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 49:10>Psalms 49:10</verse></h3>



For he seeth [that] wise men (f) die, likewise the fool and the brutish person perish, and leave their
wealth to (g) others.



(f) In that that death makes no difference between the persons.



(g) That is, not to their children, but to strangers. Yet the wicked profit not by these examples, but
still dream of immortality on earth.
#BCV:Psalms 49:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 49:12>Psalms 49:12</verse></h3>



Nevertheless man [being] in honour abideth not: he is like the (h) beasts [that] perish.

<page=1288>(h) Concerning the death of the body.
#BCV:Psalms 49:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 49:13>Psalms 49:13</verse></h3>



This their way [is] their folly: yet their posterity (i) approve their sayings. Selah.



(i) They speak and do the same thing that their fathers did.
#BCV:Psalms 49:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 49:14>Psalms 49:14</verse></h3>




(k) Like sheep they are laid in the grave; (l) death shall feed on them; and the upright shall have
dominion over them in the (m) morning; and their beauty shall consume in the grave from their
dwelling.



(k) As sheep are gathered into the fold, so shall they be brought to the grave.



(l) Because they have no part of life everlasting.



(m) Christ's coming is as the morning, when the elect will reign with Christ their head over the
wicked.
#BCV:Psalms 49:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 49:18>Psalms 49:18</verse></h3>



Though while he lived he blessed his soul: and (n) [men] will praise thee, when thou doest well to
thyself.



(n) The flatterers praise them who live in delight and pleasures.
#BCV:Psalms 49:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 49:19>Psalms 49:19</verse></h3>




(o) He shall go to the generation of his fathers; (p) they shall never see light.



(o) And not pass the term appointed for life.



(p) Both they and their fathers will live here but a while and at length die forever.
#BCV:Psalms 49:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 49:20>Psalms 49:20</verse></h3>



Man [that is] in honour, and (q) understandeth not, is like the beasts [that] perish.



(q) He condemns man's ingratitude, who having received excellent gifts from God, abuses them like
a beast to his own condemnation.

<h2>Psalms 50</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 50:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 50:1>Psalms 50:1</verse></h3>

<page=1289>"A Psalm of (a) Asaph." The mighty God, [even] the LORD, hath spoken, and called the (b) earth
from the rising of the sun unto the going down thereof.



(a) Who was either the author, or a chief singer, to whom it was committed.



(b) To plead against his deceitful people before heaven and earth.
#BCV:Psalms 50:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 50:2>Psalms 50:2</verse></h3>



Out of Zion, the (c) perfection of beauty, God hath shined.



(c) Because God had chosen it to have his Name there called on and also his image shines there in
the doctrine of the law.
#BCV:Psalms 50:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 50:3>Psalms 50:3</verse></h3>



Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence: a (d) fire shall devour before him, and it shall be
very tempestuous round about him.



(d) As when God gave his law in mount Sinai he appeared terrible with thunder and tempest, so will
he appear terrible to take account for the keeping of it.
#BCV:Psalms 50:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 50:4>Psalms 50:4</verse></h3>



He shall call to the heavens from above, and to (e) the earth, that he may judge his people.



(e) As witnessing against the hypocrites.
#BCV:Psalms 50:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 50:5>Psalms 50:5</verse></h3>



Gather my (f) saints together unto me; those that have made a covenant with me by (g) sacrifice.



(f) God in respect to his elect calls the whole body holy, saints and his people.



(g) Who should know that sacrifices are sealed by the covenant between God and his people, and
not set religion in it.
#BCV:Psalms 50:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 50:8>Psalms 50:8</verse></h3>



I will not (h) reprove thee for thy sacrifices or thy burnt offerings, [to have been] continually before
me.


<page=1290>(h) For I pass not for sacrifices unless the true use is there, which is to confirm your faith.
#BCV:Psalms 50:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 50:10>Psalms 50:10</verse></h3>




(i) For every beast of the forest [is] mine, [and] the cattle upon a thousand hills.



(i) Though he delighted in sacrifice, yet he had no need for man's help in it.
#BCV:Psalms 50:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 50:13>Psalms 50:13</verse></h3>




(k) Will I eat the flesh of bulls, or drink the blood of goats?



(k) Though man's life for the infirmity of it has need of food, yet God whose life quickens all the
world, has no need of such means.
#BCV:Psalms 50:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 50:14>Psalms 50:14</verse></h3>



Offer unto God thanksgiving; and (l) pay thy vows unto the most High:



(l) Show yourself mindful of God's benefits by thanksgiving.
#BCV:Psalms 50:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 50:16>Psalms 50:16</verse></h3>



But unto the wicked God saith, (m) What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or [that] thou
shouldest take my covenant in thy mouth?



(m) Why do you pretend to be of my people and talk of my covenant, seeing that you are a
hypocrite?
#BCV:Psalms 50:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 50:17>Psalms 50:17</verse></h3>



Seeing thou hatest (n) instruction, and castest my words behind thee.



(n) To live according to my word.
#BCV:Psalms 50:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 50:18>Psalms 50:18</verse></h3>



When thou sawest a thief, then (o) thou consentedst with him, and hast been partaker with
adulterers.



(o) He shows what the fruits of them who contemn God's word are.
#BCV:Psalms 50:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 50:20>Psalms 50:20</verse></h3>

<page=1291>Thou (p) sittest [and] speakest against thy brother; thou slanderest thine own mother's son.



(p) He notes the cruelty of hypocrites who in their talk or judgment do not spare their own mother's
sons.
#BCV:Psalms 50:21
<h3><verse=Psalms 50:21>Psalms 50:21</verse></h3>



These [things] hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether [such an one]
as thyself: [but] I will reprove thee, and (q) set [them] in order before thine eyes.



(q) I will write all your wicked deeds in a roll, and make you read and acknowledge them, whether
you will or not.
#BCV:Psalms 50:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 50:23>Psalms 50:23</verse></h3>



Whoso offereth (r) praise glorifieth me: and to him that (s) ordereth [his] conversation [aright] will I



(t) shew the salvation of God.



(r) Under which is contained faith and invocation.



(s) As God has appointed.



(t) That is, declare myself to be his Saviour.

<h2>Psalms 51</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 51:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 51:1>Psalms 51:1</verse></h3>

<page=1292>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David, when Nathan the prophet (a) came unto him, after he
had gone in to Bathsheba." Have mercy upon me, O God, (b) according to thy lovingkindness:
according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions.



(a) To reprove him, because he had committed horrible sins, and lain in the same without repentance
more then a whole year.



(b) As his sins were many and great, so he requires that God would give him the feeling of his
excellent and abundant mercies.
#BCV:Psalms 51:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 51:2>Psalms 51:2</verse></h3>



Wash me (c) throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin.



(c) My sins strike so fast in me, that I have need of some singular kind of washing.
#BCV:Psalms 51:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 51:3>Psalms 51:3</verse></h3>



For I (d) acknowledge my transgressions: and my sin [is] ever before me.



(d) My conscience accuses me so, that I can have no rest till I am reconciled.
#BCV:Psalms 51:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 51:4>Psalms 51:4</verse></h3>



Against thee, thee only, have I sinned, and done [this] evil in thy sight: that thou mightest be justified
when thou (e) speakest, [and] be clear when thou judgest.



(e) When you give sentence against sinners, they must confess you to be just, and themselves sinners.
#BCV:Psalms 51:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 51:6>Psalms 51:6</verse></h3>



Behold, thou (f) desirest truth in the inward parts: and in the hidden [part] thou shalt make me to
know wisdom.



(f) He confesses that God who loves pureness of heart, may justly destroy man, who by nature is a
sinner much more him whom he had instructed in his heavenly wisdom.
#BCV:Psalms 51:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 51:8>Psalms 51:8</verse></h3>



Make me to hear (g) joy and gladness; [that] the (h) bones [which] thou hast broken may rejoice.

<page=1293>(g) He means God's comfortable mercies toward repentant sinners.



(h) By the bones he understands all strength of soul and body, which by cares and mourning are
consumed.
#BCV:Psalms 51:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 51:10>Psalms 51:10</verse></h3>




(i) Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.



(i) He confesses that when God's Spirit is cold in us, to have it again revived, is as a new creation.
#BCV:Psalms 51:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 51:12>Psalms 51:12</verse></h3>



Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me [with thy] (k) free spirit.



(k) Which may assure me that I am drawn out of the slavery of sin.
#BCV:Psalms 51:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 51:13>Psalms 51:13</verse></h3>



[Then] will I teach transgressors thy (l) ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.



(l) He promises to endeavour that others by his example may turn to God.
#BCV:Psalms 51:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 51:14>Psalms 51:14</verse></h3>



Deliver me from (m) bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: [and] my tongue shall sing
aloud of thy righteousness.



(m) From the murder of Uriah and the others who were slain with him, (<bcv=II Sa 11:17>Sa2 11:17</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 51:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 51:15>Psalms 51:15</verse></h3>



O Lord, (n) open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.



(n) By giving me opportunity to praise you, when you will forgive my sins.
#BCV:Psalms 51:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 51:17>Psalms 51:17</verse></h3>



The sacrifices of God [are] a (o) broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not
despise.



(o) Which is a wounding of the heart, proceeding from faith, which seeks God for mercy.
#BCV:Psalms 51:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 51:18>Psalms 51:18</verse></h3>

<page=1294>Do good in thy good pleasure unto (p) Zion: build thou the walls of Jerusalem.


(p) He prays for the whole Church, because through his sin it was in danger of God's judgment.
#BCV:Psalms 51:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 51:19>Psalms 51:19</verse></h3>



Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of (q) righteousness, with burnt offering and whole
burnt offering: then shall they offer bullocks upon thine altar.



(q) That is, just and lawful, applied to the right end, which is the exercise of faith and repentance.

<h2>Psalms 52</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 52:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 52:1>Psalms 52:1</verse></h3>

<page=1295>"To the chief Musician, Maschil, [A Psalm] of David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul,
and said unto him, David is come to the house of Ahimelech." Why boastest thou thyself in
mischief, O (a) mighty man? the goodness of God [endureth] continually.



(a) O Doeg, who half consider to be the tyrant Saul, and had the power to murder the saints of God.
#BCV:Psalms 52:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 52:2>Psalms 52:2</verse></h3>



Thy tongue deviseth (b) mischiefs; like a sharp razor, working deceitfully.



(b) Your malice moves you by crafty flattery and lies to accuse and destroy the innocents.
#BCV:Psalms 52:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 52:5>Psalms 52:5</verse></h3>



God shall likewise (c) destroy thee for ever, he shall take thee away, and pluck thee out of [thy]
dwelling place, and (d) root thee out of the land of the living. Selah.



(c) Though God forbear for a time, yet at length he will recompense your falsehood.



(d) Even though you seem to be never so sure settled.
#BCV:Psalms 52:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 52:6>Psalms 52:6</verse></h3>



The (e) righteous also shall see, (f) and fear, and shall laugh at him:



(e) For the eyes of the reprobate are shut at God's judgments.



(f) With joyful reverence, seeing that he takes their part against the wicked.
#BCV:Psalms 52:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 52:8>Psalms 52:8</verse></h3>



But I [am] like a (g) green olive tree in the house of God: I trust in the mercy of God for ever and
ever.



(g) He rejoices to have a place among the servant's of God, that he may grow in the knowledge of
godliness.
#BCV:Psalms 52:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 52:9>Psalms 52:9</verse></h3>



I will praise thee for ever, because thou hast done (h) [it]: and I will wait on thy name; for [it is] good
before thy saints.

<page=1296>(h) Executed his vengeance.

<h2>Psalms 53</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 53:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 53:1>Psalms 53:1</verse></h3>

<page=1297>"To the chief Musician upon (a) Mahalath, Maschil, [A Psalm] of David." The fool hath said in his
heart, [There is] (b) no God. Corrupt are they, and have done abominable iniquity: [there is] none
that doeth good.



(a) Which was an instrument or king of note.



(b) Whereas no regard is had for honesty or dishonesty, for virtue nor for vice, there the prophet
pronounces that the people have no God.
#BCV:Psalms 53:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 53:2>Psalms 53:2</verse></h3>



God looked down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there were [any] that did
understand, that did (c) seek God.



(c) By which he condemns all knowledge and understanding that tends not to seek God.
#BCV:Psalms 53:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 53:4>Psalms 53:4</verse></h3>



Have the (d) workers of iniquity no knowledge? who eat up my people [as] they eat bread: they have
not called upon God.



(d) David pronounces God's vengeance against cruel governors who having charge to defend and
preserve God's people, cruelly devour them.
#BCV:Psalms 53:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 53:5>Psalms 53:5</verse></h3>



There were they in great fear, [where] no (e) fear was: for God hath scattered the (f) bones of him
that encampeth [against] thee: thou hast put [them] to shame, because God hath despised them.



(e) When they thought there was no opportunity to fear, the sudden vengeance of God lighted on
them.



(f) No matter how great the enemies power is, or fearful the danger, yet God delivers his in due time.

<h2>Psalms 54</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 54:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 54:1>Psalms 54:1</verse></h3>

<page=1298>"To the chief Musician on Neginoth, Maschil, [A Psalm] of David, when the Ziphims came and said
to Saul, Doth not David hide himself with us?" Save me, O God, (a) by thy name, and judge me by
thy strength.



(a) He declares that when all means fail, God will deliver even by miracle, they who call to him with
an upright conscience.
#BCV:Psalms 54:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 54:3>Psalms 54:3</verse></h3>



For (b) strangers are risen up against me, and (c) oppressors seek after my soul: they have not set
God before them. Selah.



(b) That is, the Ziphims.



(c) Saul and his army who were like cruel beasts, could not be satisfied except by his death.
#BCV:Psalms 54:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 54:4>Psalms 54:4</verse></h3>



Behold, God [is] mine helper: the Lord [is] with (d) them that uphold my soul.



(d) No matter how few, as he was with Jonathan.
#BCV:Psalms 54:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 54:5>Psalms 54:5</verse></h3>



He shall reward evil unto mine enemies: cut them off in thy (e) truth.



(e) According to your faithful promise for my defence.
#BCV:Psalms 54:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 54:6>Psalms 54:6</verse></h3>



I will (f) freely sacrifice unto thee: I will praise thy name, O LORD; for [it is] good.



(f) For hypocrites serve God out of fear or on conditions.
#BCV:Psalms 54:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 54:7>Psalms 54:7</verse></h3>



For he hath delivered me out of all trouble: and mine eye hath (g) seen [his desire] upon mine
enemies.



(g) We may lawfully rejoice for God's judgments against the wicked, if our affections are pure.

<h2>Psalms 55</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 55:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:1>Psalms 55:1</verse></h3>

<page=1299>"To the chief Musician on Neginoth, Maschil, [A Psalm] of David." Give ear to (a) my prayer, O
God; and hide not thyself from my supplication.



(a) The earnestness of his prayer declares the vehemency of his grief in so much as he is compelled
to burst out into cries.
#BCV:Psalms 55:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:3>Psalms 55:3</verse></h3>



Because of the (b) voice of the enemy, because of the oppression of the wicked: for (c) they cast
iniquity upon me, and in wrath they hate me.



(b) For the threatenings of Saul and his adherents.



(c) They have defamed me as a wicked person, or they have imagined my destruction.
#BCV:Psalms 55:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:5>Psalms 55:5</verse></h3>



Fearfulness and trembling are come upon me, and horror hath (d) overwhelmed me.



(d) There was no part of him that was not astonished with extreme fear.
#BCV:Psalms 55:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:6>Psalms 55:6</verse></h3>



And I said, Oh that I had wings like a dove! [for then] would I (e) fly away, and be at rest.



(e) Fear had driven him to so great distress, that he wished to be hid in some wilderness, and to be
banished from that kingdom which God had promised that he should enjoy.
#BCV:Psalms 55:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:8>Psalms 55:8</verse></h3>



I would hasten my escape (f) from the windy storm [and] tempest.



(f) From the cruel rage and tyranny of Saul.
#BCV:Psalms 55:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:9>Psalms 55:9</verse></h3>



Destroy, O Lord, [and] (g) divide their tongues: for I have seen violence and strife in the city.



(g) As in the confusion of Babylon when the wicked conspired against God.
#BCV:Psalms 55:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:10>Psalms 55:10</verse></h3>

<page=1300>Day and night they go about it upon the walls thereof: (h) mischief also and sorrow [are] in the
midst of it.



(h) All laws and good orders are broken and only vice and dissolution reigns under Saul.
#BCV:Psalms 55:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:12>Psalms 55:12</verse></h3>



For [it was] not an (i) enemy [that] reproached me; then I could have borne [it]: neither [was it] he
that hated me [that] did magnify [himself] against me; then I would have hid myself from him:



(i) If my open enemy had sought by hurt, I could better have avoided him.
#BCV:Psalms 55:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:13>Psalms 55:13</verse></h3>



But [it was] thou, a man mine (k) equal, my guide, and mine acquaintance.



(k) Who was not only joined to me in friendship and counsel in worldly matters, but also in religion.
#BCV:Psalms 55:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:15>Psalms 55:15</verse></h3>



Let death seize upon them, [and] let them (l) go down quick into hell: for wickedness [is] in their
dwellings, [and] among them.



(l) As Korah, Dathan and Abiram.
#BCV:Psalms 55:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:17>Psalms 55:17</verse></h3>



Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, (m) and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice.



(m) Which signifies a servants mind and sure trust to obtain his portion, which made him earnest at
all times in prayer.
#BCV:Psalms 55:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:18>Psalms 55:18</verse></h3>



He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle [that was] against me: for there were (n) many
with me.



(n) Even the angels of God fought on my side against my enemies, (<bcv=II Ki 6:16>Kg2 6:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 55:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:19>Psalms 55:19</verse></h3>

<page=1301>God shall hear, and afflict them, even he that abideth of old. Selah. Because they (o) have no
changes, therefore they fear not God.



(o) But their prosperous estate still continues.
#BCV:Psalms 55:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:20>Psalms 55:20</verse></h3>



He (p) hath put forth his hands against such as be at peace with him: he hath broken his covenant.



(p) I did not provoke him but was as at peace with him, yet he made war against me.
#BCV:Psalms 55:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:22>Psalms 55:22</verse></h3>



Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall (q) never suffer the righteous to
be moved.



(q) Though for their bettering and trial, he permits them to slip for a time.
#BCV:Psalms 55:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 55:23>Psalms 55:23</verse></h3>



But thou, O God, shalt bring them down into the pit of destruction: bloody and deceitful men shall
not live out (r) half their days; but I will trust in thee.



(r) Though they sometimes live longer, yet their life is cursed by God, unquiet, and worse than any
death.

<h2>Psalms 56</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 56:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 56:1>Psalms 56:1</verse></h3>

<page=1302>"To the chief Musician upon Jonathelemrechokim, Michtam of David, (a) when the Philistines took
him in Gath." Be merciful unto me, O God: for (b) man would swallow me up; he fighting daily
oppresseth me.



(a) Being chased by the fury of his enemies into a strange country, he was a dumb dove not seeking
vengeance.



(b) He shows that if God will help him, it must be now or never for all the world is against him and
ready to devour him.
#BCV:Psalms 56:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 56:4>Psalms 56:4</verse></h3>



In God I will praise his (c) word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto
me.




(c) He stays his conscience on God's promise though he sees no present help.
#BCV:Psalms 56:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 56:5>Psalms 56:5</verse></h3>



Every day they wrest my (d) words: all their thoughts [are] against me for evil.



(d) All my counsels have evil success, and turn to my own sorrow.
#BCV:Psalms 56:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 56:6>Psalms 56:6</verse></h3>




(e) They gather themselves together, they hide themselves, they mark my steps, when they wait for
my soul.



(e) As all the world against one man, and cannot be satisfied unless they have my life.
#BCV:Psalms 56:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 56:7>Psalms 56:7</verse></h3>



Shall (f) they escape by iniquity? in [thine] anger cast down the people, O God.



(f) They not only think to escape punishment, but the more wicked they are, the more impudent
they grow.
#BCV:Psalms 56:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 56:8>Psalms 56:8</verse></h3>



Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my (g) tears into thy bottle: [are they] not in thy book?

<page=1303>(g) If God stores the tears of his saints, much more will he remember their blood, to avenge it: and
though tyrants burn the bones, yet they cannot blot the tears and blood out of God's register.
#BCV:Psalms 56:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 56:12>Psalms 56:12</verse></h3>




(h) Thy vows [are] upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee.



(h) Having received that which I required, I am bound to pay my vows of thanksgiving as I
promised.
#BCV:Psalms 56:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 56:13>Psalms 56:13</verse></h3>



For thou hast delivered my soul from death: [wilt] not [thou deliver] my feet from falling, that I may



(i) walk before God in the (k) light of the living?



(i) As mindful of his great mercies, and giving thanks for the same.



(k) That is, in the life and light of the sun.

<h2>Psalms 57</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 57:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 57:1>Psalms 57:1</verse></h3>

<page=1304>"(a) To the chief Musician, Altaschith, Michtam of David, when he fled from Saul in the cave." Be
merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of
thy wings will I make my refuge, until [these] (a) calamities be overpast.



(a) This was either the beginning of a certain song, or the words which David uttered when he
stayed his affection.



(b) He compares the afflictions which God lays on his children, to a storm that comes and goes.
#BCV:Psalms 57:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 57:2>Psalms 57:2</verse></h3>



I will cry unto God most high; unto God that (c) performeth [all things] for me.



(c) Who does not leave his works begun imperfectly.
#BCV:Psalms 57:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 57:3>Psalms 57:3</verse></h3>



He shall send from (d) heaven, and save me [from] the reproach of him that would swallow me up.
Selah. God shall send forth his mercy and his truth.



(d) He would rather deliver me by a miracle, than that I should be overcome.
#BCV:Psalms 57:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 57:4>Psalms 57:4</verse></h3>



My soul [is] among lions: [and] I lie [even among] them that are set on fire, [even] the sons of men,
whose teeth [are] (e) spears and arrows, and their tongue a sharp sword.



(e) He means their slanderous and false reports.
#BCV:Psalms 57:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 57:5>Psalms 57:5</verse></h3>




(f) Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens; [let] thy glory [be] above all the earth.



(f) Do not permit me to be destroyed to the contempt of your Name.
#BCV:Psalms 57:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 57:6>Psalms 57:6</verse></h3>



They have prepared a net for my steps; (g) my soul is bowed down: they have digged a pit before me,
into the midst whereof they are fallen [themselves]. Selah.



(g) For fear, seeing the great dangers on all sides.
#BCV:Psalms 57:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 57:7>Psalms 57:7</verse></h3>

<page=1305>My heart is (h) fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: (i) I will sing and give praise.



(h) That is, wholly bent to give you praise for my deliverance.



(i) He shows that both his heart will praise God, and his tongue will confess him, and also he will
use other means to provoke himself forward to the same.
#BCV:Psalms 57:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 57:10>Psalms 57:10</verse></h3>



For thy mercy [is] great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the (k) clouds.



(k) Your mercies not only belong to the Jews, but also to the Gentiles.

<h2>Psalms 58</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 58:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 58:1>Psalms 58:1</verse></h3>

<page=1306>"To the chief Musician, Altaschith, Michtam of David." Do ye indeed speak righteousness, O (a)
congregation? do ye judge uprightly, O ye sons of men?



(a) You counsellors of Saul, who under pretence of consulting for the common wealth, conspire my
death being an innocent.
#BCV:Psalms 58:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 58:2>Psalms 58:2</verse></h3>



Yea, in heart ye work wickedness; ye weigh the violence of (b) your hands in the earth.



(b) You are not ashamed to execute that cruelty publicly, which you have imagined in your hearts.
#BCV:Psalms 58:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 58:3>Psalms 58:3</verse></h3>



The wicked (c) are estranged from the womb: they go astray as soon as they be born, speaking lies.



(c) That is, enemies to the people of God even from their birth.
#BCV:Psalms 58:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 58:4>Psalms 58:4</verse></h3>



Their poison [is] like the poison of a serpent: [they are] like the deaf (d) adder [that] stoppeth her
ear;



(d) They pass in malice and subtilty the crafty serpent who could preserve himself by stopping his
ears from the enchanter.
#BCV:Psalms 58:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 58:6>Psalms 58:6</verse></h3>



Break their (e) teeth, O God, in their mouth: break out the great teeth of the young lions, O LORD.



(e) Take away all opportunity and means by which they hurt.
#BCV:Psalms 58:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 58:7>Psalms 58:7</verse></h3>



Let them (f) melt away as waters [which] run continually: [when] he bendeth [his bow to shoot] his
arrows, let them be as cut in pieces.



(f) Considering God's divine power, he shows that God in a moment can destroy their force of
which they brag.
#BCV:Psalms 58:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 58:9>Psalms 58:9</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 58:9
<h3><verse=psa 58:9>psa 58:9</verse></h3>



and in [his] wrath.



(g) As flesh is taken raw out of the pot before the water boils: so he desires God to destroy their
enterprises before they bring them to pass.
#BCV:Psalms 58:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 58:10>Psalms 58:10</verse></h3>



The righteous shall (h) rejoice when he seeth the vengeance: he shall wash his feet in the (i) blood of
the wicked.



(h) With a pure affection.



(i) Their punishment and slaughter will be so great.
#BCV:Psalms 58:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 58:11>Psalms 58:11</verse></h3>



So that a man shall say, (k) Verily [there is] a reward for the righteous: verily he is a God that judgeth
in the earth.



(k) Seeing God governs all by his providence, he must put a difference between the godly and the
wicked.

<h2>Psalms 59</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 59:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 59:1>Psalms 59:1</verse></h3>

<page=1308>"To the chief Musician, Altaschith, (a) Michtam of David; when Saul sent, and they watched the
house to kill him." (b) Deliver me from mine enemies, O my God: defend me from them that rise
up against me.



(a) Or, a certain tune.



(b) Though his enemies were even at hand to destroy him, yet he assures himself that God had ways
to deliver him.
#BCV:Psalms 59:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 59:3>Psalms 59:3</verse></h3>



For, lo, they lie in wait for my soul: the mighty are gathered against me; not [for] my (c) transgression,
nor [for] my sin, O LORD.



(c) For I am innocent toward them, and have not offended them.
#BCV:Psalms 59:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 59:5>Psalms 59:5</verse></h3>



Thou therefore, O LORD God of hosts, the God of Israel, awake to visit all the heathen: be not (d)
merciful to any wicked transgressors. Selah.



(d) Seeing it belongs to God's judgments to punish the wicked, he desires God to execute his
vengeance on the reprobate, who maliciously persecutes his Church.
#BCV:Psalms 59:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 59:6>Psalms 59:6</verse></h3>



They return at evening: they make a noise like a (e) dog, and go round about the city.



(e) He compares their cruelty to hungry dogs showing that they are never weary in doing evil.
#BCV:Psalms 59:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 59:7>Psalms 59:7</verse></h3>



Behold, they (f) belch out with their mouth: swords [are] in their lips: for who, [say they], doth hear?



(f) They boast openly in their wicked devises, and every word is as a sword: for they neither fear
God nor are ashamed of men.
#BCV:Psalms 59:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 59:9>Psalms 59:9</verse></h3>




(g) [Because of] his strength will I wait upon thee: for God [is] my defence.

<page=1309>(g) Though Saul has great power, yet I know that you bridle him: therefore I will patiently hope in
you.
#BCV:Psalms 59:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 59:10>Psalms 59:10</verse></h3>



The God of my mercy shall (h) prevent me: God shall let me see [my desire] upon mine enemies.



(h) He will not fail to help me when need requires.
#BCV:Psalms 59:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 59:11>Psalms 59:11</verse></h3>



Slay them (i) not, lest my people forget: scatter them by thy power; and bring them down, O Lord
our shield.



(i) Altogether, but little by little, that the people seeing your judgments often, may be mindful of you.
#BCV:Psalms 59:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 59:12>Psalms 59:12</verse></h3>



[For] the sin of their mouth [and] the words of their lips let them even be (k) taken in their pride:
and for cursing and lying [which] they speak.



(k) That in their misery and shame they may be as glasses and examples of God's vengeance.
#BCV:Psalms 59:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 59:13>Psalms 59:13</verse></h3>




(l) Consume [them] in wrath, consume [them], that they [may] not [be]: and let them know that God
ruleth in Jacob unto the ends of the earth. Selah.



(l) When your time will come, and when they have sufficiently served for an example of your
vengeance to others.
#BCV:Psalms 59:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 59:14>Psalms 59:14</verse></h3>



And at evening let them (m) return; [and] let them make a noise like a dog, and go round about the
city.



(m) He mocks their vain enterprises, being assured that they will not bring their purpose to pass.
#BCV:Psalms 59:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 59:16>Psalms 59:16</verse></h3>



But I will sing of thy (n) power; yea, I will sing aloud of thy mercy in the morning: for thou hast
been my defence and refuge in the day of my trouble.



(n) Who used the policy of a weak woman to confound the enemies strength, (<bcv=I Sa 19:12>Sa1 19:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 59:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 59:17>Psalms 59:17</verse></h3>

<page=1310>Unto thee, O my (o) strength, will I sing: for God [is] my defence, [and] the God of my mercy.


(o) Confessing himself to be void of all virtue and strength, he attributes the whole to God.

<h2>Psalms 60</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 60:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 60:1>Psalms 60:1</verse></h3>

<page=1311>"To the chief Musician upon (a) Shushaneduth, Michtam of David, to teach; when he strove with
Aramnaharaim and with (b) Aramzobah, when Joab returned, and smote of Edom in the valley of
salt twelve thousand." O God, thou hast cast us off, thou hast (c) scattered us, thou hast been
displeased; O turn thyself to us again.



(a) These were certain songs after the note of which this psalm was sung.



(b) Also called Sophene, which stands by Euphrates.



(c) For when Saul was not able to resist the enemy, the people fled here and there: for they were not
safe in their own homes.
#BCV:Psalms 60:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 60:2>Psalms 60:2</verse></h3>



Thou hast made the earth to tremble; thou hast (d) broken it: heal the breaches thereof; for it
shaketh.



(d) As split with an earthquake.
#BCV:Psalms 60:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 60:3>Psalms 60:3</verse></h3>



Thou hast (e) shewed thy people hard things: thou hast made us to drink the wine of astonishment.



(e) You have handled your people sharply, in asking from them sense and judgment in that they
aided Saul the wicked King, and punished him to whom God had given the just title of the realm.
#BCV:Psalms 60:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 60:4>Psalms 60:4</verse></h3>



Thou hast given (f) a banner to them that fear thee, that it may be displayed because of the truth.
Selah.



(f) In making me king, you have performed your promise, which seemed to have lost the force.
#BCV:Psalms 60:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 60:6>Psalms 60:6</verse></h3>



God hath spoken in his (g) holiness; I will rejoice, I will divide Shechem, and mete out the valley of
Succoth.



(g) It is as certain as if it were spoken by an oracle, that I will possess those places which Saul has
left to his children.
#BCV:Psalms 60:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 60:7>Psalms 60:7</verse></h3>

<page=1312>Gilead [is] mine, and Manasseh [is] mine; Ephraim also [is] the (h) strength of mine head; (i) Judah
[is] my lawgiver;



(h) For it was strong and well peopled.



(i) David means that in this tribe his kingdom will be established, (<bcv=Gen 49:10>Gen 49:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 60:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 60:8>Psalms 60:8</verse></h3>



Moab [is] my (k) washpot; over Edom will I cast out my shoe: (l) Philistia, triumph thou because of
me.




(k) In most vile subjection.



(l) For you will lie and pretend you were glad.
#BCV:Psalms 60:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 60:9>Psalms 60:9</verse></h3>



Who will bring me [into] the (m) strong city? who will lead me into Edom?



(m) He was assured that God would give him the strong cities of his enemies, in which they thought
themselves sure.

<h2>Psalms 61</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 61:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 61:2>Psalms 61:2</verse></h3>

<page=1313>From (a) the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the
rock [that] is (b) higher than I.



(a) From the place where I was banished, being driven out of the city and temple by my son
Absalom.



(b) To which without your help I cannot attain.
#BCV:Psalms 61:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 61:5>Psalms 61:5</verse></h3>



For thou, O God, (c) hast heard my vows: thou hast given [me] the heritage of those that fear thy
name.



(c) There is nothing that strengthens our faith more than the memory of God's help in times past.
#BCV:Psalms 61:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 61:6>Psalms 61:6</verse></h3>



Thou wilt prolong the king's (d) life: [and] his years as many generations.



(d) This chiefly refers to Christ, who lives eternally not only in himself but also in his members.
#BCV:Psalms 61:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 61:7>Psalms 61:7</verse></h3>



He shall abide before God for ever: O prepare (e) mercy and truth, [which] may preserve him.



(e) For the stability of my kingdom stands in your mercy and truth.

<h2>Psalms 62</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 62:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 62:1>Psalms 62:1</verse></h3>

<page=1314>"To the chief Musician, to Jeduthun, A Psalm of David." Truly (a) my soul waiteth upon God: from
him [cometh] my salvation.



(a) Though Satan tempted him to murmur against God, yet he bridled his affections, and resting on
God's promise.
#BCV:Psalms 62:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 62:2>Psalms 62:2</verse></h3>




(b) He only [is] my rock and my salvation; [he is] my defence; I shall not be greatly moved.



(b) It appears by the often repetition of this word, that the prophet endured many temptations by
resting on God and by patience he overcame them all.
#BCV:Psalms 62:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 62:3>Psalms 62:3</verse></h3>



How long will ye imagine mischief against a (c) man? ye shall be slain all of you: as a (d) bowing wall
[shall ye be, and as] a tottering fence.



(c) He means himself, being the man whom God had appointed to the kingdom.



(d) Though you seem to be in honour, yet God will suddenly destroy you.
#BCV:Psalms 62:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 62:5>Psalms 62:5</verse></h3>




(e) My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation [is] from him.



(e) David was greatly moved by these troubles, therefore he stirs up himself to trust in God.
#BCV:Psalms 62:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 62:7>Psalms 62:7</verse></h3>



In God [is] my salvation and my (f) glory: the rock of my strength, [and] my refuge, [is] in God.



(f) These vehement and often repetitions were necessary to strengthen his faith against the horrible
assault of Satan.
#BCV:Psalms 62:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 62:8>Psalms 62:8</verse></h3>



Trust in him at all times; [ye] people, (g) pour out your heart before him: God [is] a refuge for us.
Selah.

<page=1315>(g) He admonishes us of our wicked nature, which would rather hide our sorrow and bite the bridle,
than utter our grief to God to obtain remedy.
#BCV:Psalms 62:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 62:10>Psalms 62:10</verse></h3>



Trust not in oppression, and (h) become not vain in robbery: if riches increase, set not your heart
[upon them].



(h) Give yourselves wholly to God by putting away all things that are contrary to his law.
#BCV:Psalms 62:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 62:11>Psalms 62:11</verse></h3>



God hath spoken (i) once; twice have I heard this; that power [belongeth] unto God.



(i) He has plainly born witness to his power, so that no one needs to doubt it.
#BCV:Psalms 62:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 62:12>Psalms 62:12</verse></h3>



Also unto thee, O Lord, [belongeth] mercy: for thou (k) renderest to every man according to his
work.



(k) So that the wicked will feel your power, and the godly your mercy.

<h2>Psalms 63</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 63:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 63:1>Psalms 63:1</verse></h3>

<page=1316>"A Psalm of David, when he was in the (a) wilderness of Judah." O God, thou [art] my God; early
will I seek thee: my soul (b) thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land,
where no water is;



(a) That is, of Ziph (<bcv=I Sa 23:14>Sa1 23:14</bcv>).



(b) Though he was both hungry and in great distress, yet he made God above all meat and drink.
#BCV:Psalms 63:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 63:2>Psalms 63:2</verse></h3>



To see thy power and thy glory, so [as] (c) I have seen thee in the sanctuary.



(c) In this misery I exercise myself in the contemplation of your power and glory, as if I were in the
sanctuary.
#BCV:Psalms 63:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 63:5>Psalms 63:5</verse></h3>



My soul shall be satisfied as [with] (d) marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise [thee] with
joyful lips:



(d) The remembrance of your favour is more sweet to me than all the pleasures and dainties of the
world.
#BCV:Psalms 63:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 63:8>Psalms 63:8</verse></h3>



My soul (e) followeth hard after thee: thy right hand upholdeth me.



(e) He assures himself by the Spirit of God to have the gift of constancy.
#BCV:Psalms 63:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 63:10>Psalms 63:10</verse></h3>




(f) They shall fall by the sword: they shall be a portion for foxes.



(f) He prophecies of the destruction of Saul and they who take his part, whose bodies will not be
buried but be devoured with wild beasts.
#BCV:Psalms 63:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 63:11>Psalms 63:11</verse></h3>



But the king shall rejoice in God; every one that (g) sweareth by him shall glory: but the mouth of
them that speak lies shall be stopped.

<page=1317>(g) All who swear by God correctly or profess him will rejoice in this worthy king.

<h2>Psalms 64</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 64:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 64:1>Psalms 64:1</verse></h3>

<page=1318>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David." Hear my (a) voice, O God, in my prayer: preserve my
life from fear of the enemy.



(a) In that he calls to God with his voice, it is a sign that his prayer was vehement, and that his life
was in danger.
#BCV:Psalms 64:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 64:2>Psalms 64:2</verse></h3>



Hide me from the (b) secret counsel of the wicked; from the (c) insurrection of the workers of
iniquity:



(b) That is, from their secret malice.



(c) That is, their outward violence.
#BCV:Psalms 64:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 64:3>Psalms 64:3</verse></h3>



Who whet their tongue like a sword, [and] bend [their bows to shoot] their arrows, [even] (d) bitter
words:



(d) False reports and slanders.
#BCV:Psalms 64:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 64:4>Psalms 64:4</verse></h3>



That they may shoot in secret at the perfect: suddenly do they shoot at him, and (e) fear not.



(e) To be without fear of God and reverence of man, is a sign of reprobation.
#BCV:Psalms 64:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 64:5>Psalms 64:5</verse></h3>



They (f) encourage themselves [in] an evil matter: they commune of laying snares privily; they say,
Who shall see them?



(f) The more the wicked set God's children in misery, the more bold and impudent are they in
oppressing them.
#BCV:Psalms 64:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 64:6>Psalms 64:6</verse></h3>



They search out iniquities; they accomplish a diligent search: both the inward [thought] of every one



(g) [of them], and the heart, [is] deep.

<page=1319>(g) There is no way so secret and subtle to do hurt, which they did not invent for his destruction.
#BCV:Psalms 64:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 64:8>Psalms 64:8</verse></h3>



So they shall make their own tongue to fall upon themselves: all that see them shall (h) flee away.



(h) To see God's heavy judgments against them, and how he has caught them in their own snares.
#BCV:Psalms 64:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 64:10>Psalms 64:10</verse></h3>



The righteous (i) shall be glad in the LORD, and shall trust in him; and all the upright in heart shall
glory.



(i) When they will consider that he will be favourable to them as he was to his servant David.

<h2>Psalms 65</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 65:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 65:1>Psalms 65:1</verse></h3>

<page=1320>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm [and] Song of David." (a) Praise waiteth for thee, O God, in Sion:
and unto thee shall the vow be performed.



(a) You daily give new opportunities to your Church to praise you.
#BCV:Psalms 65:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 65:2>Psalms 65:2</verse></h3>



O thou that hearest prayer, unto thee shall all (b) flesh come.



(b) Not only the Jews but also the Gentiles in the kingdom of Christ.
#BCV:Psalms 65:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 65:3>Psalms 65:3</verse></h3>



Iniquities (c) prevail against me: [as for] our transgressions, thou shalt purge them away.



(c) He imputes it to his sins and to the sins of the people that God who was accustomed to afflict
them withdraws his help from them.
#BCV:Psalms 65:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 65:5>Psalms 65:5</verse></h3>



[By] terrible things in righteousness wilt thou (d) answer us, O God of our salvation; [who art] the
confidence of all the ends of the earth, and of them that are afar off [upon] the (e) sea:



(d) You will declare yourself to be the preserver of your Church in destroying your enemies, as you
did in the Red Sea.



(e) As of all barbarous nations, and far off.
#BCV:Psalms 65:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 65:7>Psalms 65:7</verse></h3>



Which stilleth the (f) noise of the seas, the noise of their waves, and the tumult of the people.



(f) He shows that there is no part or creature in the world which is not governed by God's power
and providence.
#BCV:Psalms 65:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 65:9>Psalms 65:9</verse></h3>



Thou (g) visitest the earth, and waterest it: thou greatly enrichest it with the (h) river of God, [which]
is full of water: thou preparest them corn, when thou hast so provided for (i) it.



(g) That is, with rain.

<page=1321>(h) That is, Shiloh or the rain.

(i) You have appointed the earth to bring forth food to man's use.
#BCV:Psalms 65:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 65:10>Psalms 65:10</verse></h3>



Thou (k) waterest the ridges thereof abundantly: thou settlest the furrows thereof: thou makest it
soft with showers: thou blessest the springing thereof.



(k) By this description he shows that all the order of nature is a testimony of God's love toward us,
who causes all creatures to serve our need.
#BCV:Psalms 65:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 65:13>Psalms 65:13</verse></h3>



The pastures are clothed with flocks; the valleys also are covered over with corn; they shout for joy,



(l) they also sing.



(l) That is, the dumb creatures will not only rejoice for a time for God's benefits, but will continually
sing.

<h2>Psalms 66</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 66:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 66:1>Psalms 66:1</verse></h3>

<page=1322>"To the chief Musician, A Song [or] Psalm." Make a joyful noise unto God, (a) all ye lands:



(a) He prophecies that all nations will come to the knowledge of God, who then was only known in
Judea.
#BCV:Psalms 66:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 66:3>Psalms 66:3</verse></h3>



Say unto God, How terrible [art thou in] thy works! through the greatness of thy power shall thine
enemies (b) submit themselves unto thee.



(b) As the faithful obey God willingly, so the infidels disguise themselves as obedient out of fear.
#BCV:Psalms 66:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 66:5>Psalms 66:5</verse></h3>




(c) Come and see the works of God: [he is] terrible [in his] doing toward the (d) children of men.



(c) He refers to the slothful dullness of man, who is cold in the consideration of God's works.



(d) His providence is wonderful in maintaining their estate.
#BCV:Psalms 66:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 66:7>Psalms 66:7</verse></h3>



He ruleth by his power for ever; his eyes behold the nations: let not the rebellious (e) exalt
themselves. Selah.



(e) He proves that God will extend his grace also to the Gentiles, because he punishes among them
such as will not obey his calling.
#BCV:Psalms 66:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 66:9>Psalms 66:9</verse></h3>



Which (f) holdeth our soul in life, and suffereth not our feet to be moved.



(f) He signifies some special benefit that God had showed to his Church of the Jews, in delivering
them from some great danger: of which he promises that the Gentiles will also be partakers.
#BCV:Psalms 66:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 66:11>Psalms 66:11</verse></h3>



Thou broughtest us into the (g) net; thou laidst affliction upon our loins.



(g) The condition of the Church is here described, which is to be led by God's providence into
troubles, to be subject under tyrants, and to enter into many dangers.
#BCV:Psalms 66:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 66:13>Psalms 66:13</verse></h3>

<page=1323>I will go into thy (h) house with burnt offerings: I will pay thee my vows,


(h) The duty of the faithful is here described, who are never mindful to render God praise for his
benefits.
#BCV:Psalms 66:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 66:16>Psalms 66:16</verse></h3>




(i) Come [and] hear, all ye that fear God, and I will declare what he hath done for my soul.



(i) It is not enough to have received God's benefits and to be mindful of it, but also we are bound to
make others profit by it and praise God.
#BCV:Psalms 66:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 66:18>Psalms 66:18</verse></h3>




(k) If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear [me]:



(k) If I delight in wickedness, God will not hear me, but if I confess it, he will receive me.

<h2>Psalms 67</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 67:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 67:1>Psalms 67:1</verse></h3>

<page=1324>"To the chief Musician on Neginoth, A Psalm [or] Song." God be merciful unto us, and bless us;
[and] (a) cause his face to shine upon us; Selah.



(a) That is, move our hearts with his Holy Spirit, that we may feel his favour toward us.
#BCV:Psalms 67:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 67:2>Psalms 67:2</verse></h3>



That (b) thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations.



(b) That both Jews and Gentiles may know God's covenant made with them.
#BCV:Psalms 67:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 67:4>Psalms 67:4</verse></h3>




(c) O let the nations be glad and sing for joy: for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern
the nations upon earth. Selah.



(c) By these repetitions he shows that the people can never rejoice and give thanks enough for the
great benefits that they will receive under the kingdom of Christ.
#BCV:Psalms 67:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 67:6>Psalms 67:6</verse></h3>



[Then] shall (d) the earth yield her increase; [and] God, [even] our own God, shall bless us.



(d) He shows that where God favours there will be abundance of all other things.
#BCV:Psalms 67:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 67:7>Psalms 67:7</verse></h3>



God shall bless us; and all the ends of the earth (e) shall fear him.



(e) When they feel his great benefits both spiritual and corporal toward them.

<h2>Psalms 68</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 68:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:1>Psalms 68:1</verse></h3>

<page=1325>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm [or] Song of David." Let God (a) arise, let his enemies be scattered:
let them also that hate him flee before him.



(a) The prophet shows that even though God permits the wicked tyrants to oppress his Church for a
time, yet eventually he will take revenge on them.
#BCV:Psalms 68:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:3>Psalms 68:3</verse></h3>




(b) But let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God: yea, let them exceedingly rejoice.



(b) He shows that when God declares his power against the wicked, it is for the convenience and
salvation of his Church, who praise him for it.
#BCV:Psalms 68:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:4>Psalms 68:4</verse></h3>



Sing unto God, sing praises to his name: extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name (c) JAH,
and rejoice before him.



(c) Jah and Jehovah are the names of God, signifying his incomprehensible essence and majesty, so
that by this it is declared that all idols are vanity and that the God of Israel is the only true God.
#BCV:Psalms 68:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:6>Psalms 68:6</verse></h3>



God (d) setteth the solitary in families: he bringeth out those which are bound with chains: but the
rebellious dwell in a (e) dry [land].



(d) He gives children to those who are childless, and increases their families.



(e) Which is devoid of God's blessings, which before they had abused.
#BCV:Psalms 68:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:7>Psalms 68:7</verse></h3>




(f) O God, when thou wentest forth before thy people, when thou didst march through the
wilderness; Selah:



(f) He teaches that God's favour belongs specifically to his Church as appears by their wonderful
deliverance out of Egypt.
#BCV:Psalms 68:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:10>Psalms 68:10</verse></h3>

<page=1326>Thy congregation hath dwelt therein: thou, O God, hast prepared of thy (g) goodness for the poor.



(g) God blessed the land of Canaan, because he had chosen that place for his Church.
#BCV:Psalms 68:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:11>Psalms 68:11</verse></h3>



The Lord gave the word: great [was] the company of (h) those that published [it].



(h) The fashion then was that women sang songs after the victory, as did Miriam, Deborah, Judith
and others.
#BCV:Psalms 68:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:12>Psalms 68:12</verse></h3>



Kings of armies did flee apace: and (i) she that tarried at home divided the spoil.



(i) The prayer was so great, that not only the soldiers, but the women also had part of it.
#BCV:Psalms 68:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:13>Psalms 68:13</verse></h3>



Though ye have lien among the (k) pots, [yet shall ye be as] the wings of a dove covered with silver,
and her feathers with yellow gold.



(k) Though God permits his Church for a time to lie in black darkness, yet he will restore it, and
make it most shining and white.
#BCV:Psalms 68:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:14>Psalms 68:14</verse></h3>



When the Almighty scattered kings (l) in it, it was [white] as snow in Salmon.



(l) In the land of Canaan, where his Church was.
#BCV:Psalms 68:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:15>Psalms 68:15</verse></h3>




(m) The hill of God [is as] the hill of Bashan; an high hill [as] the hill of Bashan.



(m) Zion the Church of God exceeds all worldly things, not in pomp and outward show, but by the
inward grace of God, which remains because of his dwelling there.
#BCV:Psalms 68:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:16>Psalms 68:16</verse></h3>




(n) Why leap ye, ye high hills? [this is] the hill [which] God desireth to dwell in; yea, the LORD will
dwell [in it] for ever.

(n) Why do you boast of your strength and beauty against this Mountain of God.

#BCV:Psalms 68:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:18>Psalms 68:18</verse></h3>

<page=1327>Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast (o) led captivity captive: thou hast received gifts for men; yea,
[for] the rebellious also, that the LORD God might dwell [among them].

(o) As God overcame the enemy of his Church, took them prisoners, and made them tributaries: so
Christ, which is God manifested in the flesh, subdued Satan and sin under us, and gave to his
Church most liberal gifts of his Spirit, (<bcv=Eph 4:8>Eph 4:8</bcv>).

#BCV:Psalms 68:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:20>Psalms 68:20</verse></h3>

[He that is] our God [is] the God of salvation; and unto GOD the Lord [belong] the (p) issues from
death.

(p) Even in most extreme dangers, God has infinite ways to deliver his.

#BCV:Psalms 68:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:22>Psalms 68:22</verse></h3>

The Lord said, I will bring again from (q) Bashan, I will bring [my people] again from the depths of
the sea:

(q) As he delivered his Church once from Og of Bashan and other tyrants and from the danger of
the Red Sea, so will he still do as often as it is necessary.

#BCV:Psalms 68:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:23>Psalms 68:23</verse></h3>

That thy foot may be dipped in the blood of [thine] enemies, [and] the tongue of thy dogs (r) in the
same.

(r) That is, in the blood of that great slaughter, where dogs will lap blood.

#BCV:Psalms 68:24
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:24>Psalms 68:24</verse></h3>

They have seen (s) thy goings, O God; [even] the goings of my God, my King, in the sanctuary.

(s) That is, how you who are chief King goes out with your people to war, and gives them the
victory.

#BCV:Psalms 68:25
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:25>Psalms 68:25</verse></h3>

The (t) singers went before, the players on instruments [followed] after; among [them were] the
damsels playing with timbrels.

<page=1328>(t) He describes the order of the people, when they went to the temple to give thanks for the victory.

#BCV:Psalms 68:26
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:26>Psalms 68:26</verse></h3>

Bless ye God in the congregations, [even] the Lord, from the fountain (u) of Israel.

(u) Who come of the patriarch Jacob.

#BCV:Psalms 68:27
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:27>Psalms 68:27</verse></h3>



There [is] (x) little Benjamin [with] their (y) ruler, the princes of Judah [and] their council, the
princes of Zebulun, [and] the princes of Naphtali.



(x) Benjamin is called little, because he was the youngest son of Jacob.



(y) Who was some chief ruler of the tribe.
#BCV:Psalms 68:29
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:29>Psalms 68:29</verse></h3>




(z) Because of thy temple at Jerusalem shall kings bring presents unto thee.



(z) Declare out of your holy palace your power for the defence of your Church Jerusalem.
#BCV:Psalms 68:30
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:30>Psalms 68:30</verse></h3>



Rebuke the company of spearmen, the multitude of the bulls, with the calves of the people, [till
every one] (a) submit himself with pieces of silver: scatter thou the people [that] delight in war.



(a) He desires that the pride of the mighty may be destroyed, who were accustomed to garnishing
their shoes with silver, and therefore for their glittering pomp thought themselves above all men.
#BCV:Psalms 68:31
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:31>Psalms 68:31</verse></h3>



Princes shall come out (b) of Egypt; Ethiopia shall soon stretch out her hands unto God.



(b) He prophecies that the Gentiles will come to the true knowledge and worship of God.
#BCV:Psalms 68:33
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:33>Psalms 68:33</verse></h3>



To him that rideth upon the heavens of heavens, [which were] of old; lo, he doth send out his (c)
voice, [and that] a mighty voice.



(c) By his terrible thunders he will make himself be known as the God of all the world.
#BCV:Psalms 68:35
<h3><verse=Psalms 68:35>Psalms 68:35</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 68:35
<h3><verse=psa 68:35>psa 68:35</verse></h3>



and power unto [his] people. Blessed [be] God.



(d) In showing fearful judgments against your enemies for the salvation of your people.



(e) He alludes to the tabernacle which was divided in three parts.

<h2>Psalms 69</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 69:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:1>Psalms 69:1</verse></h3>

<page=1330>"To the chief Musician upon (a) Shoshannim, [A Psalm] of David." Save me, O God; for the (b)
waters are come in unto [my] soul.



(a) Of Shoshannim, read (<bcv=Psa 45:1>Psa 45:1</bcv>).



(b) David shows by the waters the great dangers he was in, out of which God delivered him.
#BCV:Psalms 69:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:2>Psalms 69:2</verse></h3>



I sink in deep mire, where [there is] no (c) standing: I am come into deep waters, where the floods
overflow me.



(c) No stable firmness to settle my feet.
#BCV:Psalms 69:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:3>Psalms 69:3</verse></h3>



I am weary of my crying: my throat is dried: mine (d) eyes fail while I wait for my God.



(d) Though his senses failed him, yet his faith was constant and encouraged him still to pray.
#BCV:Psalms 69:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:4>Psalms 69:4</verse></h3>



They that hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of mine head: they that would destroy me,
[being] mine enemies (e) wrongfully, are mighty: then I restored [that] which I (f) took not away.



(e) Condemning me as guilty.



(f) They judged me a thief, though innocent, and gave my goods to others, as though I had stolen
them.
#BCV:Psalms 69:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:5>Psalms 69:5</verse></h3>



O God, thou knowest my (g) foolishness; and my sins are not hid from thee.



(g) Though I am guilty toward you, yet I am innocent toward them.
#BCV:Psalms 69:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:6>Psalms 69:6</verse></h3>



Let not them that wait on thee, O Lord GOD of hosts, be ashamed for (h) my sake: let not those
that seek thee be confounded for my sake, O God of Israel.

<page=1331>(h) Do not let my evil entreaty of the enemy be an opportunity for the faithful to fall from you.
#BCV:Psalms 69:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:9>Psalms 69:9</verse></h3>




(i) For the zeal of thine house hath eaten me up; and the reproaches of them that reproached thee
are fallen upon me.



(i) When I saw your enemies claim your Name in mouth only, and in their life deny the same, your
Holy Spirit thrust me forward to reprove them and defend your glory.
#BCV:Psalms 69:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:10>Psalms 69:10</verse></h3>



When I (k) wept, [and chastened] my soul with fasting, that was to my reproach.



(k) My zeal moved me to lament and pray for my salvation.
#BCV:Psalms 69:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:12>Psalms 69:12</verse></h3>



They that (l) sit in the gate speak against me; and I [was] the song of the drunkards.



(l) The more he sought to win them to God, the more they were against him both the poor and the
rich.
#BCV:Psalms 69:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:13>Psalms 69:13</verse></h3>



But as for me, my prayer [is] unto thee, O LORD, [in] an (m) acceptable time: O God, in the
multitude of thy mercy hear me, in the truth of thy salvation.



(m) Knowing that even though I endure trouble now, yet you have a time in which you have
appointed my deliverance.
#BCV:Psalms 69:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:14>Psalms 69:14</verse></h3>



Deliver me out of the mire, and let me not sink: let me be delivered from them that hate me, and
out of the (n) deep waters.



(n) He shows a living faith, in that he believes that God is favourable towards him when he seems to
be angry and at hand when he seems to be far off.
#BCV:Psalms 69:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:17>Psalms 69:17</verse></h3>



And (o) hide not thy face from thy servant; for I am in trouble: hear me speedily.

<page=1332>(o) Not that he feared that God would not hear him, but that care made him think that God delayed
too long.
#BCV:Psalms 69:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:19>Psalms 69:19</verse></h3>



Thou hast known my reproach, and my shame, and my dishonour: mine (p) adversaries [are] all
before thee.



(p) You see that I am beset as a sheep among many wolves.
#BCV:Psalms 69:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:20>Psalms 69:20</verse></h3>



Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: and (q) I looked [for some] to take pity,
but [there was] none; and for comforters, but I found none.



(q) He shows men that it is vain to put our trust in men in our great necessity, but that our comfort
only depends on God: for man increases our sorrows, then diminishes them, (<bcv=John 19:29>Joh 19:29</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 69:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:22>Psalms 69:22</verse></h3>



Let their (r) table become a snare before them: and [that which should have been] for [their] welfare,
[let it become] a trap.



(r) He desires God to execute his judgments against the reprobate, which cannot by any means be
turned, (<bcv=Rom 11:9>Rom 11:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 69:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:23>Psalms 69:23</verse></h3>



Let their eyes be darkened, that they see not; and make their (s) loins continually to shake.



(s) Take both judgment and power from them, (<bcv=Acts 1:20>Act 1:20</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 69:25
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:25>Psalms 69:25</verse></h3>



Let their (t) habitation be desolate; [and] let none dwell in their tents.



(t) Punish not only them, but their posterity, who will be like them.
#BCV:Psalms 69:27
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:27>Psalms 69:27</verse></h3>



Add (u) iniquity unto their iniquity: and let them not come into thy righteousness.



(u) By their continuance and increasing in their sins, let it be known that they are of the reprobate.
#BCV:Psalms 69:28
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:28>Psalms 69:28</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 69:28
<h3><verse=psa 69:28>psa 69:28</verse></h3>




(x) They who seemed by their profession to have been written in your book, yet by their fruits prove
the contrary, let them be known as reprobates.
#BCV:Psalms 69:31
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:31>Psalms 69:31</verse></h3>



[This] also shall please the LORD better than an ox [or] (y) bullock that hath horns and hoofs.



(y) There is no sacrifice which God values more than thanksgiving for his benefits.
#BCV:Psalms 69:33
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:33>Psalms 69:33</verse></h3>



For the LORD heareth the poor, and despiseth not his (z) prisoners.



(z) For as he delivered his servant David, so will he do for all that are in distress and call on him.
#BCV:Psalms 69:36
<h3><verse=Psalms 69:36>Psalms 69:36</verse></h3>



The (a) seed also of his servants shall inherit it: and they that love his name shall dwell therein.



(a) Under the temporal promise of the land of Canaan, he comprehends the promise of everlasting
life to the faithful and their posterity.

<h2>Psalms 70</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 70:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 70:1>Psalms 70:1</verse></h3>

<page=1334>"To the chief Musician, [A Psalm] of David, to bring (a) to remembrance." [Make (b) haste], O God,
to deliver me; make haste to help me, O LORD.



(a) Which might put him in remembrance of his deliverance.



(b) He teaches us to be earnest in prayer even though God seems to delay: for at his time he will
hear us.
#BCV:Psalms 70:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 70:2>Psalms 70:2</verse></h3>



Let them be ashamed and (c) confounded that seek after my soul: let them be turned backward, and
put to confusion, that desire my hurt.



(c) He was assured that the more they raged, the nearer they were to destruction, and he the nearer
to his deliverance.
#BCV:Psalms 70:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 70:3>Psalms 70:3</verse></h3>



Let them be turned back for a reward of their (d) shame that say, Aha, aha.



(d) By this we are taught not to mock at others in their misery, lest the same fall on our own necks.
#BCV:Psalms 70:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 70:5>Psalms 70:5</verse></h3>



But I [am] (e) poor and needy: make haste unto me, O God: thou [art] my help and my deliverer; O
LORD, make no tarrying.



(e) Because he had felt God's help before, he grounds on experience, and boldly seeks him for help.

<h2>Psalms 71</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 71:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:1>Psalms 71:1</verse></h3>

<page=1335>In (a) thee, O LORD, do I put my trust: let me never be put to confusion.



(a) He prays to God with full assurance of faith, that he will deliver him from his adversaries.
#BCV:Psalms 71:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:2>Psalms 71:2</verse></h3>



Deliver me in thy (b) righteousness, and cause me to escape: incline thine ear unto me, and save me.



(b) By declaring yourself true to your promises.
#BCV:Psalms 71:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:3>Psalms 71:3</verse></h3>



Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: thou (c) hast given
commandment to save me; for thou [art] my rock and my fortress.



(c) You have infinite means and all creatures are at your commandment; therefore show some sign
by which I will be delivered.
#BCV:Psalms 71:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:4>Psalms 71:4</verse></h3>



Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand (d) of the wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous and
cruel man.



(d) That is, from Absalom, Ahithophel and that conspiracy.
#BCV:Psalms 71:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:5>Psalms 71:5</verse></h3>



For thou [art] my hope, O Lord GOD: [thou art] my (e) trust from my youth.



(e) He strengthens his faith by the experience of God's benefits, who not only preserved him in his
mother's womb, but took him from there, and ever since has preserved him.
#BCV:Psalms 71:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:7>Psalms 71:7</verse></h3>



I am as a (f) wonder unto many; but thou [art] my strong refuge.



(f) All the world wonders at me because of my miseries: both those in authority and the common
people, yet being assured of your favour, I remain steadfast.
#BCV:Psalms 71:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:9>Psalms 71:9</verse></h3>

<page=1336>Cast me not off in the time of (g) old age; forsake me not when my strength faileth.



(g) You who helped me in my youth when I had more strength, help me now even more in my old
age and weakness.
#BCV:Psalms 71:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:11>Psalms 71:11</verse></h3>



Saying, (h) God hath forsaken him: persecute and take him; for [there is] none to deliver [him].



(h) Thus the wicked both blaspheme God and triumph against his saints, as though he had forsaken
them if he permits them to fall into their hands.
#BCV:Psalms 71:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:12>Psalms 71:12</verse></h3>



O God, be not far from me: O (i) my God, make haste for my help.



(i) In calling him his God, he puts back the false reports of the adversaries who said God had
forsaken him.
#BCV:Psalms 71:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:15>Psalms 71:15</verse></h3>



My mouth shall shew forth thy righteousness [and] thy salvation all the day; (k) for I know not the
numbers [thereof].



(k) Because your benefits toward me are innumerable, I cannot but continually meditate and rehearse
them.
#BCV:Psalms 71:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:16>Psalms 71:16</verse></h3>



I will (l) go in the strength of the Lord GOD: I will make mention of thy righteousness, [even] of
thine only.



(l) I will remain steadfast, being upheld by the power of God.
#BCV:Psalms 71:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:18>Psalms 71:18</verse></h3>




(m) Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy
strength unto [this] generation, [and] thy power to every one [that] is to come.



(m) He desires that as he has begun, he would so continue his benefits, that his liberality may have
perfect praise.
#BCV:Psalms 71:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:19>Psalms 71:19</verse></h3>

<page=1337>Thy (n) righteousness also, O God, [is] very high, who hast done great things: O God, who [is] like
unto thee!



(n) Your just performance of your promise.
#BCV:Psalms 71:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:20>Psalms 71:20</verse></h3>



[Thou], which hast shewed me great and (p) sore troubles, shalt quicken me again, and shalt bring
me up again from the depths of the earth.



(p) As he confesses that God is the only author of his deliverance, so he acknowledges that these
evils were sent to him by God's providence.
#BCV:Psalms 71:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:22>Psalms 71:22</verse></h3>



I will also praise thee with the psaltery, [even] thy (q) truth, O my God: unto thee will I sing with the
harp, O thou Holy One of Israel.



(q) He confesses that his long delay was well recompensed, when God performed his promise.
#BCV:Psalms 71:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 71:23>Psalms 71:23</verse></h3>



My lips shall greatly rejoice when I sing unto thee; and my (r) soul, which thou hast redeemed.



(r) For there is no true praising of God, unless it comes from the heart: and therefore he promises
to delight in nothing, except that in which God is glorified.

<h2>Psalms 72</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 72:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 72:1>Psalms 72:1</verse></h3>



"[A Psalm] (a) for Solomon." Give the king thy (b) judgments, O God, and thy righteousness unto
the king's (c) son.



(a) Composed by David concerning the reign of his son Solomon.



(b) Imbue the king with the Spirit of wisdom and justice, that he reign not as the worldly tyrants do.



(c) That is, to his posterity.
#BCV:Psalms 72:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 72:3>Psalms 72:3</verse></h3>



The (d) mountains shall bring peace to the people, and the little hills, by righteousness.



(d) When justice reigns, even the places most barren will be enriched with your blessings.
#BCV:Psalms 72:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 72:4>Psalms 72:4</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 72:4
<h3><verse=psa 72:4>psa 72:4</verse></h3>



pieces the oppressor.



(e) He shows why the sword is committed to Kings that is, to defend the innocent, and suppress the
wicked.
#BCV:Psalms 72:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 72:5>Psalms 72:5</verse></h3>



They shall (f) fear thee as long as the sun and moon endure, throughout all generations.



(f) The people will embrace your true religion, when you give a king who rules according to your
word.
#BCV:Psalms 72:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 72:6>Psalms 72:6</verse></h3>



He shall come (g) down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers [that] water the earth.



(g) As this is true in all godly kings, so it is chiefly verified in Christ, who with his heavenly dew,
makes his Church ever to flourish.
#BCV:Psalms 72:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 72:8>Psalms 72:8</verse></h3>



He shall have dominion also from (h) sea to sea, and from the river unto the ends of the earth.



(h) That is, from the Red sea to the sea called the Syriacum, and from Euphrates forward, meaning,
that Christ's kingdom would be large and universal.
#BCV:Psalms 72:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 72:10>Psalms 72:10</verse></h3>



The kings of (i) Tarshish and of the isles shall bring presents: the kings (k) of Sheba and Seba shall
offer gifts.



(i) Of Cilicia, and of all other countries beyond the sea, which he means by the isles.



(k) That is, of Arabia that rich country, of which Sheba was a part bordering on Ethiopia.
#BCV:Psalms 72:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 72:14>Psalms 72:14</verse></h3>



He shall redeem their soul from deceit and violence: and (l) precious shall their blood be in his sight.



(l) Though tyrants pause not to shed blood, yet this godly king will preserve his subjects from all
kinds of wrong.
#BCV:Psalms 72:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 72:15>Psalms 72:15</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 72:15
<h3><verse=psa 72:15>psa 72:15</verse></h3>



him continually; [and] daily shall he be praised.



(m) God will both prosper his life and make the people willing to obey him.
#BCV:Psalms 72:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 72:16>Psalms 72:16</verse></h3>



There shall be an handful of corn in the earth upon the top of the mountains; the (n) fruit thereof
shall shake like Lebanon: and [they] of the city shall flourish like grass of the earth.



(n) Under such a king will be great plenty, both of fruit and also of the increase of mankind.
#BCV:Psalms 72:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 72:17>Psalms 72:17</verse></h3>



His name shall endure for ever: his name shall be continued as long as the sun: and [men] shall be
blessed in him: all nations shall call (o) him blessed.



(o) They will pray to God for his continuance and know that God prospers them for his sake.
#BCV:Psalms 72:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 72:18>Psalms 72:18</verse></h3>



Blessed [be] the LORD God, the God of Israel, who only doeth (p) wondrous things.



(p) He confesses that unless God miraculously preserves his people neither the king nor the
kingdom can continue.
#BCV:Psalms 72:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 72:20>Psalms 72:20</verse></h3>



The (q) prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended.



(q) Concerning his son Solomon.

<h2>Psalms 73</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 73:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:1>Psalms 73:1</verse></h3>

<page=1340>"A Psalm of Asaph." Truly (a) God [is] good to Israel, [even] to such as are of a clean heart.



(a) As it were between hope and despair he bursts forth into this affection, being assured that God
would continue his favour toward such as were godly indeed, and not hypocrites.
#BCV:Psalms 73:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:4>Psalms 73:4</verse></h3>



For [there are] (b) no bands in their death: but their strength [is] firm.



(b) The wicked in this life live at pleasure and are not drawn to death like prisoners: that is, by
sickness which is death's messenger.
#BCV:Psalms 73:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:6>Psalms 73:6</verse></h3>




(c) Therefore pride compasseth them about as a chain; violence covereth them [as] a garment.



(c) They glory in their pride as some do in their chains, and in cruelty, as some do in apparel.
#BCV:Psalms 73:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:9>Psalms 73:9</verse></h3>



They (d) set their mouth against the heavens, and their tongue walketh through the earth.



(d) They blaspheme God, and do not fear his power and rail upon men, because they esteem
themselves above all others.
#BCV:Psalms 73:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:10>Psalms 73:10</verse></h3>



Therefore his (e) people return hither: and waters of a full [cup] are wrung out to them.



(e) Not only the reprobate, but also the people of God often fall back seeing the prosperous estate
of the wicked, and are overwhelmed with sorrows, thinking that God does not correctly consider
the estate of the godly.
#BCV:Psalms 73:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:11>Psalms 73:11</verse></h3>



And they (f) say, How doth God know? and is there knowledge in the most High?



(f) Thus the flesh moves even the godly to dispute with God concerning their poor estate, and the
prosperity of the wicked.
#BCV:Psalms 73:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:15>Psalms 73:15</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 73:15
<h3><verse=psa 73:15>psa 73:15</verse></h3>




(g) If I give place to this wicked thought, I offend against your providence, seeing you do all things
most wisely and preserve your children in their greatest dangers.
#BCV:Psalms 73:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:17>Psalms 73:17</verse></h3>



Until I went into the (h) sanctuary of God; [then] understood I their end.



(h) Until I entered into your school and learned by your word and Holy Spirit that you order all
things most wisely and justly.
#BCV:Psalms 73:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:19>Psalms 73:19</verse></h3>



How are they [brought] into desolation, as in a moment! they are (i) utterly consumed with terrors.



(i) By your fearful judgment.
#BCV:Psalms 73:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:20>Psalms 73:20</verse></h3>



As a dream when [one] awaketh; [so], O Lord, when (k) thou awakest, thou shalt despise their image.



(k) When you open our eyes to consider your heavenly happiness, we contemn all their vain pomp.
#BCV:Psalms 73:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:22>Psalms 73:22</verse></h3>



So foolish [was] I, and ignorant: I was [as] a (l) beast before thee.



(l) For the more that man goes about by his own reason to seek out God's judgments, the more he
declares himself a beast.
#BCV:Psalms 73:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:23>Psalms 73:23</verse></h3>



Nevertheless I [am] continually (m) with thee: thou hast holden [me] by my right hand.



(m) By faith I was assured that your providence always watched over me to preserve me.
#BCV:Psalms 73:25
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:25>Psalms 73:25</verse></h3>



Whom have I in (n) heaven [but thee]? and [there is] none upon earth [that] I desire beside thee.



(n) He sought neither help nor comfort of any save God only.
#BCV:Psalms 73:26
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:26>Psalms 73:26</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 73:26
<h3><verse=psa 73:26>psa 73:26</verse></h3>




(o) He teaches us to deny ourselves, to have God our whole sufficiency, and only contentment.
#BCV:Psalms 73:27
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:27>Psalms 73:27</verse></h3>



For, lo, they that are far from thee shall perish: thou hast destroyed all them that (p) go a whoring
from thee.



(p) That is, forsake you to seek others.
#BCV:Psalms 73:28
<h3><verse=Psalms 73:28>Psalms 73:28</verse></h3>



But [it is] good for me (q) to draw near to God: I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may
declare all thy works.



(q) Though all the world shrinks from God, yet he promises to trust in him and to magnify his
works.

<h2>Psalms 74</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 74:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 74:1>Psalms 74:1</verse></h3>

<page=1343>"Maschil of Asaph." O God, (a) why hast thou cast [us] off for ever? [why] doth thine anger smoke
against the sheep of thy pasture?



(a) The Church of God is oppressed by the tyranny, either of the Babylonians or of Antiochus, and
prays to God by whose hand the yoke was laid on them for their sins.
#BCV:Psalms 74:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 74:2>Psalms 74:2</verse></h3>



Remember thy congregation, [which] thou hast purchased of old; the (b) rod of thine inheritance,
[which] thou hast redeemed; this mount Zion, wherein thou hast dwelt.



(b) Which inheritance you have measured out for yourself as with a line or rod.
#BCV:Psalms 74:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 74:4>Psalms 74:4</verse></h3>



Thine enemies roar in the midst of thy congregations; they (c) set up their ensigns [for] signs.



(c) They have destroyed your true religion, and spread their banners in sign of defiance.
#BCV:Psalms 74:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 74:5>Psalms 74:5</verse></h3>



[A man] was famous according as he had (d) lifted up axes upon the thick trees.



(d) He commends the temple for the costly matter, the excellent workmanship and beauty of it,
which nonetheless the enemies destroyed.
#BCV:Psalms 74:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 74:8>Psalms 74:8</verse></h3>



They said in their (e) hearts, Let us destroy them together: they have burned up all the synagogues
of God in the land.



(e) They encouraged one another to cruelty, that not only God's people might be destroyed, but also
his religion utterly in all places suppressed.
#BCV:Psalms 74:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 74:9>Psalms 74:9</verse></h3>



We see not our signs: [there is] no more any prophet: neither [is there] among us any that knoweth (f)
how long.

<page=1344>(f) They lamented that they had no prophet among them to show them how long their misery would
last.
#BCV:Psalms 74:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 74:11>Psalms 74:11</verse></h3>



Why withdrawest thou thy hand, even thy right hand? (g) pluck [it] out of thy bosom.



(g) They join their deliverance with God's glory and power, knowing that the punishment of the
enemy would be their deliverance.
#BCV:Psalms 74:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 74:12>Psalms 74:12</verse></h3>



For God [is] my King of old, working salvation (h) in the midst of the earth.



(h) Meaning in the sight of all the world.
#BCV:Psalms 74:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 74:13>Psalms 74:13</verse></h3>



Thou didst divide the sea by thy strength: thou brakest the heads of the (i) dragons in the waters.



(i) That is, Pharaoh's army.
#BCV:Psalms 74:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 74:14>Psalms 74:14</verse></h3>



Thou brakest the heads of (k) leviathan in pieces, [and] gavest him [to be] (l) meat to the people
inhabiting the wilderness.



(k) Which was a great monster of the sea, or whale, meaning Pharaoh.



(l) His destruction rejoiced them as meat refreshes the body.
#BCV:Psalms 74:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 74:16>Psalms 74:16</verse></h3>



The (m) day [is] thine, the night also [is] thine: thou hast prepared the light and the sun.



(m) Seeing that God by his providence governs and disposes all things, he gathers that he will take
care chiefly for his children.
#BCV:Psalms 74:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 74:19>Psalms 74:19</verse></h3>



O deliver not the soul of thy (n) turtledove unto the multitude [of the wicked]: forget not the
congregation of thy poor for ever.



(n) He means the Church of God, which is exposed as a prey to the wicked.
#BCV:Psalms 74:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 74:20>Psalms 74:20</verse></h3>

<page=1345>Have respect unto the covenant: for (o) the dark places of the earth are full of the habitations of
cruelty.



(o) That is, all places where your word does not shine, there reigns tyranny and ambition.
#BCV:Psalms 74:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 74:22>Psalms 74:22</verse></h3>



Arise, O God, plead thine (p) own cause: remember how the foolish man reproacheth thee daily.



(p) He shows that God cannot permit his Church to be oppressed unless he looses his own right.

<h2>Psalms 75</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 75:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 75:1>Psalms 75:1</verse></h3>

<page=1346>"To the chief Musician, (a) Altaschith, A Psalm [or] Song of Asaph." Unto thee, O God, do we give
thanks, [unto thee] do we give thanks: for [that] thy name is near (b) thy wondrous works declare.



(a) Read (<bcv=Psa 57:1>Psa 57:1</bcv>).



(b) He declares how the faithful will always have opportunity to praise God, as in their need they will
feel his power at hand to help them.
#BCV:Psalms 75:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 75:2>Psalms 75:2</verse></h3>




(c) When I shall receive the congregation I will judge uprightly.



(c) When I see my time (says God) to help your miseries, I will come and set all things in good order.
#BCV:Psalms 75:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 75:3>Psalms 75:3</verse></h3>



The earth and all the inhabitants thereof are dissolved: I bear up the pillars (d) of it. Selah.



(d) Though all things are brought to ruin, yet I can restore and preserve them.
#BCV:Psalms 75:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 75:5>Psalms 75:5</verse></h3>



Lift not up your (e) horn on high: speak [not with] a stiff neck.



(e) The prophet warns the wicked that they would not set themselves against God's people, seeing
that God at his time destroys them who rule wickedly.
#BCV:Psalms 75:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 75:8>Psalms 75:8</verse></h3>



For in the hand of the LORD [there is] a (f) cup, and the wine is red; it is full of mixture; and he
poureth out of the same: but the dregs thereof, all the wicked of the earth shall wring [them] out,
[and] drink [them].



(f) God's wrath is compared to a cup of strong and delicate wine, with which the wicked are made
so drunk that by drinking till they come to the very dregs they are utterly destroyed.
#BCV:Psalms 75:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 75:10>Psalms 75:10</verse></h3>



All the horns of the wicked also will I cut off; [but] the horns of the (g) righteous shall be exalted.

<page=1347>(g) The godly will better prosper by their innocent simplicity, than the wicked will by all their craft
and subtilty.

<h2>Psalms 76</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 76:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 76:1>Psalms 76:1</verse></h3>

<page=1348>"To the chief Musician on Neginoth, A Psalm [or] Song of Asaph." In Judah [is] God (a) known: his
name [is] great in Israel.



(a) He declares that God's power is evidently seen in preserving his people and destroying his
enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 76:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 76:2>Psalms 76:2</verse></h3>



In (b) Salem also is his tabernacle, and his dwelling place in Zion.



(b) Which later was called Jerusalem.
#BCV:Psalms 76:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 76:4>Psalms 76:4</verse></h3>



Thou [art] more glorious [and] excellent than (c) the mountains of prey.



(c) He compares the kingdom full of extortion and rapine to the mountains that are full of ravening
beasts.
#BCV:Psalms 76:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 76:5>Psalms 76:5</verse></h3>



The stouthearted are spoiled, they have slept their sleep: and none of the men of might have (d)
found their hands.



(d) God has taken their spirits and strength from them as though their hands were cut off.
#BCV:Psalms 76:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 76:7>Psalms 76:7</verse></h3>



Thou, [even] thou, [art] to be feared: and who may stand in thy (e) sight when once thou art angry?



(e) God with a look is able to destroy all the power and activity of the enemies, no matter how many
or mighty.
#BCV:Psalms 76:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 76:9>Psalms 76:9</verse></h3>



When God arose to judgment, to (f) save all the meek of the earth. Selah.



(f) To avenge the wrongs done to your Church.
#BCV:Psalms 76:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 76:10>Psalms 76:10</verse></h3>

<page=1349>Surely the (g) wrath of man shall praise thee: the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain.


(g) For the end will show that the enemy was able to bring nothing to pass: also you will bridle their
rage that they will not accomplish their purpose.
#BCV:Psalms 76:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 76:11>Psalms 76:11</verse></h3>



Vow, and pay unto the LORD your God: let all that be (h) round about him bring presents unto him
that ought to be feared.



(h) That is, the Levites who dwell about the Tabernacle, or the people among whom he dwells.
#BCV:Psalms 76:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 76:12>Psalms 76:12</verse></h3>



He shall (i) cut off the spirit of princes: [he is] terrible to the kings of the earth.



(i) The Hebrew word signifies "to vintage or gather grapes" meaning that he will make the counsels
and enterprises of the wicked tyrants foolish and vain.

<h2>Psalms 77</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 77:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 77:1>Psalms 77:1</verse></h3>

<page=1350>"To the chief Musician, to Jeduthun, A Psalm of Asaph." I cried unto God with my (a) voice, [even]
unto God with my voice; and he gave ear unto me.



(a) The prophet teaches us by his example to flee to God for help in our necessities.
#BCV:Psalms 77:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 77:3>Psalms 77:3</verse></h3>



I remembered God, and was (b) troubled: I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Selah.



(b) He shows that we must patiently abide though God does not deliver us from our troubles at the
first cry.
#BCV:Psalms 77:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 77:4>Psalms 77:4</verse></h3>



Thou holdest mine eyes (c) waking: I am so troubled that I cannot speak.



(c) Meaning that his sorrows were as watchmen that kept his eyes from sleeping.
#BCV:Psalms 77:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 77:6>Psalms 77:6</verse></h3>



I call to remembrance my (d) song in the night: I commune with mine own heart: and my spirit
made (e) diligent search.



(d) Of thanksgiving, which I was accustomed to sing in my prosperity.



(e) Both the reasons why I was chastened, and when my sorrows would end.
#BCV:Psalms 77:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 77:8>Psalms 77:8</verse></h3>



Is his (f) mercy clean gone for ever? doth [his] promise fail for evermore?



(f) As if he would say, It is impossible: by which he exhorts himself to patience.
#BCV:Psalms 77:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 77:10>Psalms 77:10</verse></h3>



And I said, This [is] my (g) infirmity: [but I will remember] the years of the right hand of the most
High.



(g) Though I first doubted of my life, yet considering that God had his years, that is, change of
times, and was accustomed also to lift up them whom he had beaten, I took heart again.
#BCV:Psalms 77:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 77:13>Psalms 77:13</verse></h3>

<page=1351>Thy way, O God, [is] (h) in the sanctuary: who [is so] great a (i) God as [our] God?

(h) That is in heaven, to which we must ascend by faith, if we will know the ways of God.

(i) He condemns all who worship anything save the only true God, whose glory appears through the
world.
#BCV:Psalms 77:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 77:16>Psalms 77:16</verse></h3>



The (k) waters saw thee, O God, the waters saw thee; they were afraid: the depths also were troubled.



(k) He declares how the power of God was declared when he delivered the Israelites through the
Red Sea.
#BCV:Psalms 77:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 77:17>Psalms 77:17</verse></h3>



The clouds poured out water: the skies sent out a (l) sound: thine arrows also went abroad.



(l) That is, thundered and lightninged.
#BCV:Psalms 77:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 77:19>Psalms 77:19</verse></h3>



Thy way [is] in the sea, and thy path in the great waters, and thy footsteps are not (m) known.



(m) For when you had brought over your people, the water returned to her course, and the enemies
who thought to have followed them, could not pass through, (<bcv=Exo 14:28-29>Exo 14:28-29</bcv>).

<h2>Psalms 78</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 78:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:1>Psalms 78:1</verse></h3>

<page=1352>"(a) Maschil of Asaph." Give ear, O my people, [to] my (b) law: incline your ears to the words of my
mouth.



(a) Read (<bcv=Psa 32:1>Psa 32:1</bcv>).



(b) The prophet under the name of a teacher calls the people his, and the doctrine his, as Paul calls
the gospel his, of which he was but the preacher, as in (<bcv=Rom 2:16>Rom 2:16</bcv>,<bcv=Rom 16:25> Rom 16:25</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 78:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:3>Psalms 78:3</verse></h3>



Which we have heard and known, and our (c) fathers have told us.



(c) Who were the people of God.
#BCV:Psalms 78:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:5>Psalms 78:5</verse></h3>



For he established a (d) testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law in Israel, which he commanded our
fathers, that they should make them known to their children:



(d) By the testimony and law, he means your law written, which they were commanded to teach their
children, (<bcv=Deu 6:7>Deu 6:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 78:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:6>Psalms 78:6</verse></h3>



That the (e) generation to come might know [them, even] the children [which] should be born; [who]
should arise and declare [them] to their children:



(e) He shows how the children would be like their father's: that is, in maintaining God's pure religion.
#BCV:Psalms 78:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:7>Psalms 78:7</verse></h3>



That they might (f) set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his
commandments:



(f) He shows where the use of this doctrine exists: in faith, in the meditation of God's benefits, and
in obedience.
#BCV:Psalms 78:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:8>Psalms 78:8</verse></h3>

<page=1353>And might not be as their (g) fathers, a stubborn and rebellious generation; a generation [that] set
not their heart aright, and whose spirit was not stedfast with God.



(g) Though these fathers were the seed of Abraham and the chosen people, yet he shows by their
rebellion, provocation, falsehood, and hypocrisy, that the children should not follow their examples.
#BCV:Psalms 78:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:9>Psalms 78:9</verse></h3>



The children of (h) Ephraim, [being] armed, [and] carrying bows, turned back in the day of battle.



(h) By Ephraim he means also the rest of the tribes, because they were most in number: whose
punishment declares that they were unfaithful to God, and by their multitude and authority had
corrupted all others.
#BCV:Psalms 78:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:12>Psalms 78:12</verse></h3>



Marvellous things did he in the sight of their (i) fathers, in the land of Egypt, [in] the field of Zoan.



(i) He proves that not only the posterity but also their forefathers were wicked and rebellious to God.
#BCV:Psalms 78:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:17>Psalms 78:17</verse></h3>



And they (k) sinned yet more against him by provoking the most High in the wilderness.



(k) Their wicked malice could be overcome by no benefits, which were great and many.
#BCV:Psalms 78:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:18>Psalms 78:18</verse></h3>



And they tempted God in their heart by (l) asking meat for their lust.



(l) Then to require more than is necessary, and to separate God's power from his will, is to tempt
God.
#BCV:Psalms 78:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:19>Psalms 78:19</verse></h3>



Yea, they spake against God; they said, Can God (m) furnish a table in the wilderness?



(m) Thus when we give place to sin, we are moved to doubt God's power, unless he is always ready
to serve our lust.
#BCV:Psalms 78:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:22>Psalms 78:22</verse></h3>



Because they believed not in God, and (n) trusted not in his salvation:



(n) That is, in his fatherly providence, by which he cares for his, and provides sufficiently.
#BCV:Psalms 78:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:23>Psalms 78:23</verse></h3>

<page=1354>Though he had commanded the (o) clouds from above, and opened the doors of heaven,



(o) So that they had that which was necessary and sufficient: but their lust made them cover that
which they knew God had denied them.
#BCV:Psalms 78:26
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:26>Psalms 78:26</verse></h3>



He caused an (p) east wind to blow in the heaven: and by his power he brought in the south wind.



(p) God used the wind to show them that all the elements were at his command, and that no
distance could restrain his working.
#BCV:Psalms 78:30
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:30>Psalms 78:30</verse></h3>



They were not estranged from their (q) lust. But while their meat [was] yet in their mouths,



(q) Such is the nature of concupiscence, that the more it has the more it lusts.
#BCV:Psalms 78:31
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:31>Psalms 78:31</verse></h3>



The wrath of God came upon them, and slew (r) the fattest of them, and smote down the chosen
[men] of Israel.



(r) Though others were not spared, yet chiefly they suffered, who trusted in their strength against
God.
#BCV:Psalms 78:32
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:32>Psalms 78:32</verse></h3>



For all this they (s) sinned still, and believed not for his wondrous works.



(s) Thus sin by continuance makes man insensible, so that by no plagues they can be amended.
#BCV:Psalms 78:34
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:34>Psalms 78:34</verse></h3>



When he (t) slew them, then they sought him: and they returned and enquired early after God.



(t) Such was their hypocrisy, that they sought God out of fear of punishment, though in their heart
they did not love him.
#BCV:Psalms 78:37
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:37>Psalms 78:37</verse></h3>

<page=1355>For their (u) heart was not right with him, neither were they stedfast in his covenant.



(u) Whatever does not come from the pure fountain of the heart is hypocrisy.
#BCV:Psalms 78:38
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:38>Psalms 78:38</verse></h3>



But he, [being] full of compassion, (x) forgave [their] iniquity, and destroyed [them] not: yea, many a
time turned he his anger away, and did not stir up all his wrath.



(x) Because he would always have some remnant of a Church to praise his Name in earth, he did not
permit their sins to overcome his mercy.
#BCV:Psalms 78:41
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:41>Psalms 78:41</verse></h3>



Yea, they (y) turned back and tempted God, and (z) limited the Holy One of Israel.



(y) That is, they often tempted him.



(z) As they all do who measure the power of God by their capacity.
#BCV:Psalms 78:42
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:42>Psalms 78:42</verse></h3>



They (a) remembered not his hand, [nor] the day when he delivered them from the enemy.



(a) The forgetfulness of God's benefits is the root of rebellion and all vice.
#BCV:Psalms 78:45
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:45>Psalms 78:45</verse></h3>



He sent (b) divers sorts of flies among them, which devoured them; and frogs, which destroyed
them.



(b) This word signifies a confused mixture of flies and venomous worms. Some take it for all sorts
of serpents: some for all wild beasts.
#BCV:Psalms 78:46
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:46>Psalms 78:46</verse></h3>



He (c) gave also their increase unto the caterpiller, and their labour unto the locust.



(c) He does not repeat here all the miracles that God did in Egypt, but certain which might be
sufficient to convince the people of malice and ingratitude.
#BCV:Psalms 78:49
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:49>Psalms 78:49</verse></h3>



He cast upon them the fierceness of his anger, wrath, and indignation, and trouble, by sending (d)
evil angels [among them].

<page=1356>(d) So called either for the effect, that is, of punishing the wicked: or else because they were wicked
spirits, whom God permitted to vex men.
#BCV:Psalms 78:51
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:51>Psalms 78:51</verse></h3>



And smote all the firstborn in Egypt; the (e) chief of [their] strength in the tabernacles of (f) Ham:



(e) The firstborn are so called, as in (<bcv=Gen 49:3>Gen 49:3</bcv>).



(f) That is, Egypt: for it was called Mizraim, or Egypt of Mizraim that was the son of Ham.
#BCV:Psalms 78:53
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:53>Psalms 78:53</verse></h3>



And he led them on safely, so that they (g) feared not: but the sea overwhelmed their enemies.



(g) That is, they had no opportunity to fear, even as God destroyed their enemies and delivered them
falsely.
#BCV:Psalms 78:54
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:54>Psalms 78:54</verse></h3>



And he brought them to the border of his (h) sanctuary, [even to] this mountain, [which] his right
hand had purchased.



(h) Meaning, Canaan, which God had consecrated to himself and appointed to his people.
#BCV:Psalms 78:57
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:57>Psalms 78:57</verse></h3>



But turned back, and dealt (i) unfaithfully like their fathers: they were turned aside like a deceitful
bow.



(i) Nothing more displeases God in the children, than when they continue in that wickedness, which
their fathers had begun.
#BCV:Psalms 78:58
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:58>Psalms 78:58</verse></h3>



For they (k) provoked him to anger with their high places, and moved him to jealousy with their
graven images.



(k) By serving God other than he had appointed.
#BCV:Psalms 78:60
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:60>Psalms 78:60</verse></h3>



So that he (l) forsook the tabernacle of Shiloh, the tent [which] he placed among men;

<page=1357>(l) For their ingratitude he permitted the Philistines to take the Ark which was the sign of his
presence, from among them.
#BCV:Psalms 78:61
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:61>Psalms 78:61</verse></h3>



And delivered his (m) strength into captivity, and his glory into the enemy's hand.



(m) The Ark is called his power and beauty because by this he defended his people, and beautifully
appeared to them.
#BCV:Psalms 78:63
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:63>Psalms 78:63</verse></h3>



The fire (n) consumed their young men; and their maidens were not (o) given to marriage.



(n) They were suddenly destroyed, (<bcv=I Sa 4:10>Sa1 4:10</bcv>).



(o) They had no marriage songs: that is, they were not married.
#BCV:Psalms 78:64
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:64>Psalms 78:64</verse></h3>



Their priests fell by the sword; and their (p) widows made no lamentation.



(p) Either they were slain before or taken prisoner by their enemies, and so were forbidden.
#BCV:Psalms 78:65
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:65>Psalms 78:65</verse></h3>



Then the Lord awaked as one out of sleep, [and] like a mighty man that (q) shouteth by reason of
wine.



(q) Because they were drunk in their sins, they judged God's patience to be slumbering, as though he
were drunk, therefore he answering their beastly judgment, says, he will awake and take sudden
vengeance.
#BCV:Psalms 78:67
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:67>Psalms 78:67</verse></h3>



Moreover he refused the tabernacle of (r) Joseph, and chose not the tribe of Ephraim:



(r) Showing that he did not spare the Israelites altogether, though he punished their enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 78:69
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:69>Psalms 78:69</verse></h3>



And he (s) built his sanctuary like high [palaces], like the earth which he hath established for ever.



(s) By building the temple, and establishing the kingdom, he declares that the signs of his favour
were among them.
#BCV:Psalms 78:72
<h3><verse=Psalms 78:72>Psalms 78:72</verse></h3>

<page=1358>So (t) he fed them according to the integrity of his heart; and guided them by the skilfulness of his
hands.



(t) He shows where a kings charge stands: that is, to provide faithfully for his people, to guide them
by counsel, and defend them by power.

<h2>Psalms 79</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 79:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 79:1>Psalms 79:1</verse></h3>

<page=1359>"A Psalm of Asaph." O God, (a) the heathen are come into thine inheritance; thy holy temple have
they defiled; they have laid Jerusalem on heaps.



(a) The people cry to God against the barbarous tyranny of the Babylonians who spoiled God's
inheritance, polluted his temple, destroyed his religion, and murdered his people.
#BCV:Psalms 79:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 79:2>Psalms 79:2</verse></h3>



The (b) dead bodies of thy servants have they given [to be] meat unto the fowls of the heaven, the
flesh of thy saints unto the beasts of the earth.



(b) The prophets show to what extremities God sometimes allows his Church to fall to exercise their
faith, before he sets his hand to deliver them.
#BCV:Psalms 79:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 79:3>Psalms 79:3</verse></h3>



Their blood have they shed like water round about Jerusalem; and [there was] none to (c) bury
[them].



(c) Their friends and relatives did not dare to bury them for fear of the enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 79:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 79:4>Psalms 79:4</verse></h3>



We are become a reproach to our (d) neighbours, a scorn and derision to them that are round about
us.



(d) Of which some came from Abraham but were degenerate: and others were open enemies to
your religion, but they both laughed at our miseries.
#BCV:Psalms 79:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 79:5>Psalms 79:5</verse></h3>



How long, LORD? wilt thou be angry for ever? shall thy jealousy (e) burn like fire?



(e) Will you completely consume us for our sins, before you take us to mercy?
#BCV:Psalms 79:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 79:8>Psalms 79:8</verse></h3>



O remember not against us (f) former iniquities: let thy tender mercies speedily prevent us: for we
are brought very low.

<page=1360>(f) Which we and our fathers have committed.
#BCV:Psalms 79:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 79:9>Psalms 79:9</verse></h3>



Help us, O God of our (h) salvation, for the glory of thy name: and deliver us, and purge away our
sins, for thy name's sake.



(h) Seeing we have no other Saviour, neither can we help ourselves, and also by our salvation your
Name will be praised: therefore O Lord, help us.
#BCV:Psalms 79:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 79:11>Psalms 79:11</verse></h3>



Let the sighing of the (i) prisoner come before thee; according to the greatness of thy power
preserve thou (k) those that are appointed to die;



(i) Who though in respect to God they were justly punished for their sins, yet in consideration of
their cause were unjustly murdered.



(k) Who were captives among their enemies and could look for nothing but death.
#BCV:Psalms 79:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 79:13>Psalms 79:13</verse></h3>



So we thy people and sheep of thy pasture will give thee thanks for ever: (l) we will shew forth thy
praise to all generations.



(l) We ought to desire no benefit from God, but on this condition to praise his name, (<bcv=Isa 43:21>Isa 43:21</bcv>).

<h2>Psalms 80</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 80:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 80:1>Psalms 80:1</verse></h3>

<page=1361>"To the chief Musician upon Shoshannimeduth, A Psalm of Asaph." Give ear, (a) O Shepherd of
Israel, thou that leadest Joseph like a flock; thou that dwellest [between] the (b) cherubims, shine
forth.



(a) This Psalm was made as a prayer to desire God to be merciful to the ten tribes.



(b) Move their hearts, that they may return to worship God properly, that is, in the place you have
appointed.
#BCV:Psalms 80:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 80:3>Psalms 80:3</verse></h3>




(c) Turn us again, O God, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved.



(c) Join your whole people, and all your tribes together again.
#BCV:Psalms 80:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 80:4>Psalms 80:4</verse></h3>



O LORD God of hosts, how long wilt thou be (d) angry against the prayer of thy people?



(d) The faithful fear God's anger, when they perceive that their prayers are not heard immediately.
#BCV:Psalms 80:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 80:6>Psalms 80:6</verse></h3>



Thou makest us a (e) strife unto our neighbours: and our enemies laugh among themselves.



(e) Our neighbours have continual strife and war against us.
#BCV:Psalms 80:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 80:7>Psalms 80:7</verse></h3>




(f) Turn us again, O God of hosts, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved.



(f) Because recompence only comes from God, they most instantly and repeatedly call on God for it
is a means by which they shall be saved.
#BCV:Psalms 80:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 80:8>Psalms 80:8</verse></h3>



Thou hast brought a (g) vine out of Egypt: thou hast cast out the heathen, and planted it.



(g) Seeing that from your mercy you have made us a most dear possession to you, and we through
our sins are made open for wild beasts to devour us, declare again my love and finish the work that
you have begun.
#BCV:Psalms 80:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 80:11>Psalms 80:11</verse></h3>

<page=1362>She sent out her boughs unto the sea, and her branches unto the (h) river.



(h) That is, Euphrates.
#BCV:Psalms 80:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 80:13>Psalms 80:13</verse></h3>



The (i) boar out of the wood doth waste it, and the wild beast of the field doth devour it.



(i) That is, they who hate our religion, as well as they who hate our persons.
#BCV:Psalms 80:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 80:14>Psalms 80:14</verse></h3>



Return, we beseech thee, O God of hosts: look down (k) from heaven, and behold, and visit this
vine;



(k) They gave no place to temptation, knowing that even though there was no help in earth, yet God
was able to help them from heaven.
#BCV:Psalms 80:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 80:15>Psalms 80:15</verse></h3>



And the vineyard which thy right hand hath planted, and the branch [that] thou madest (l) strong for
thyself.



(l) So that no power can prevail against it, and which as a young bud you raised up again as out of
the burnt ashes.
#BCV:Psalms 80:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 80:16>Psalms 80:16</verse></h3>



[It is] burned with fire, [it is] cut down: they perish at the (m) rebuke of thy countenance.



(m) Only when you are angry and not of the sword of the enemy.
#BCV:Psalms 80:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 80:17>Psalms 80:17</verse></h3>



Let thy hand be upon the (n) man of thy right hand, upon the son of man [whom] thou madest
strong for thyself.



(n) That is, on this vine or people, whom you have planted with your right hand, that they should be
as one man or one body
#BCV:Psalms 80:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 80:18>Psalms 80:18</verse></h3>

<page=1363>So will not we go back from thee: (o) quicken us, and we will call upon thy name.



(o) For no one can call on God but such as are raised up as it were from death to life, and regenerate
by the Holy Spirit.

<h2>Psalms 81</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 81:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 81:1>Psalms 81:1</verse></h3>

<page=1364>"To the chief Musician upon (a) Gittith, [A Psalm] of Asaph." Sing (b) aloud unto God our strength:
make a joyful noise unto the God of Jacob.



(a) An instrument of music brought from Geth.



(b) It seems that this psalm was appointed for solemn feasts and assemblies of the people to whom
for a time these ceremonies were ordained, but now under the gospel are abolished.
#BCV:Psalms 81:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 81:3>Psalms 81:3</verse></h3>



Blow up the trumpet in the (c) new moon, in the time appointed, on our solemn feast day.



(c) Under this feast he comprehends all other solemn days.
#BCV:Psalms 81:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 81:5>Psalms 81:5</verse></h3>



This he ordained in (d) Joseph [for] a testimony, when he went out through the land of Egypt:
[where] I heard a language [that] (e) I understood not.



(d) That is, in Israel for Joseph's family was counted the chief while before, Judah was preferred.



(e) God speaks in the person of the people because he was their leader.
#BCV:Psalms 81:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 81:6>Psalms 81:6</verse></h3>



I removed his shoulder from the burden: his hands were delivered from the (f) pots.



(f) If they were never able to give sufficient thanks to God, for this deliverance from corporal
bondage, how much more are we indebted to him for our spiritual deliverance from the tyranny of
Satan and sin?
#BCV:Psalms 81:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 81:7>Psalms 81:7</verse></h3>



Thou calledst in trouble, and I delivered thee; I (g) answered thee in the secret place of thunder: I
proved thee at the waters of Meribah. Selah.



(g) By a strange and wonderful fashion.
#BCV:Psalms 81:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 81:8>Psalms 81:8</verse></h3>




(h) Hear, O my people, and I will testify unto thee: O Israel, if thou wilt hearken unto me;

<page=1365>(h) He condemns all assemblies where the people are not attentive to hear God's voice, and to give
obedience to the same.
#BCV:Psalms 81:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 81:10>Psalms 81:10</verse></h3>



I [am] the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt: (i) open thy mouth wide,
and I will fill it.



(i) God accuses their incredulity, because they did not open their mouths to receive God's benefits in
such abundance as he pours them out.
#BCV:Psalms 81:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 81:13>Psalms 81:13</verse></h3>




(k) Oh that my people had hearkened unto me, [and] Israel had walked in my ways!



(k) God by his word calls all, but his secret election appoints who will bear fruit.
#BCV:Psalms 81:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 81:14>Psalms 81:14</verse></h3>



I should soon have subdued their enemies, and turned my hand (l) against their adversaries.



(l) If their sins had not.
#BCV:Psalms 81:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 81:15>Psalms 81:15</verse></h3>



The haters of the LORD should have submitted themselves unto him: but their time (m) should
have endured for ever.



(m) If the Israelites had not broken covenant with God, he would have given them victory against
their enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 81:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 81:16>Psalms 81:16</verse></h3>



He should have fed them also with the (n) finest of the wheat: and with honey out of the rock
should I have satisfied thee.



(n) That is, with most fine wheat and abundance of honey.

<h2>Psalms 82</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 82:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 82:1>Psalms 82:1</verse></h3>

<page=1366>"A Psalm of Asaph." God standeth in the congregation of the (a) mighty; he judgeth among the
gods.



(a) The prophet shows that if princes and judges do not do their duty, God whose authority is above
them will take vengeance on them.
#BCV:Psalms 82:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 82:2>Psalms 82:2</verse></h3>



How long will ye judge unjustly, and accept the persons of the (b) wicked? Selah.



(b) For thieves and murderers find favour in judgment when the cause of the godly cannot be heard.
#BCV:Psalms 82:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 82:4>Psalms 82:4</verse></h3>



Deliver the poor and (c) needy: rid [them] out of the hand of the wicked.



(c) Not only when they cry for help, but when their cause requires aid and support.
#BCV:Psalms 82:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 82:5>Psalms 82:5</verse></h3>



They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the (d) foundations of the
earth are out of course.



(d) That is, all things are out of order either by their tyranny or careless negligence.
#BCV:Psalms 82:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 82:7>Psalms 82:7</verse></h3>




(e) But ye shall die like men, and fall like one of the princes.



(e) No title of honour will excuse you, but you will be subject to God's judgments, and tender
account as well as other men.
#BCV:Psalms 82:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 82:8>Psalms 82:8</verse></h3>



Arise, O God, judge the earth: for thou shalt inherit (f) all nations.



(f) Therefore no tyrant will pluck your right and authority from you.

<h2>Psalms 83</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 83:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 83:1>Psalms 83:1</verse></h3>

<page=1367>"A Song [or] Psalm of Asaph." Keep (a) not thou silence, O God: hold not thy peace, and be not
still, O God.



(a) This psalm seems to have been composed as a form of prayer against the dangers that the
Church was in, in the days of Jehoshaphat.
#BCV:Psalms 83:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 83:2>Psalms 83:2</verse></h3>



For, lo, thine (b) enemies make a tumult: and they that hate thee have lifted up the head.



(b) He calls them God's enemies, who are enemies of his Church.
#BCV:Psalms 83:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 83:3>Psalms 83:3</verse></h3>



They have taken crafty counsel against thy people, and consulted against thy (c) hidden ones.



(c) The elect of God are his secret ones: for he hides them in the secret of his tabernacle, and
preserves them from all dangers.
#BCV:Psalms 83:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 83:4>Psalms 83:4</verse></h3>



They have said, Come, and let us (d) cut them off from [being] a nation; that the name of Israel may
be no more in remembrance.



(d) They were not content to take the Church as prisoner: but sought to utterly destroy it.
#BCV:Psalms 83:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 83:5>Psalms 83:5</verse></h3>



For they have consulted together (e) with one consent: they are confederate (f) against thee:



(e) By all secret means.



(f) They thought to have subverted your counsel in which the constancy of the Church was
established.
#BCV:Psalms 83:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 83:8>Psalms 83:8</verse></h3>



Assur also is joined with them: they have holpen the children (g) of Lot. Selah.



(g) The wickedness of the Ammonites and Moabites is described in that they provoked these other
nations to fight against the Israelites.
#BCV:Psalms 83:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 83:9>Psalms 83:9</verse></h3>

<page=1368>Do unto them as [unto] the (h) Midianites; as [to] Sisera, as [to] Jabin, at the brook of Kison:

(h) By these examples they were confirmed that God would not permit his people to be completely
destroyed, <bcv=Jdg 7:21>(Jdg 7:21,</bcv> <bcv=Jdg 4:15>Jdg 4:15).</bcv>

#BCV:Psalms 83:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 83:10>Psalms 83:10</verse></h3>



[Which] perished at Endor: they became [as] (i) dung for the earth.



(i) Trodden under foot as mire.
#BCV:Psalms 83:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 83:12>Psalms 83:12</verse></h3>



Who said, Let us take to ourselves the (k) houses of God in possession.



(k) That is, Judea: for where his Church is, there he dwells among them.
#BCV:Psalms 83:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 83:13>Psalms 83:13</verse></h3>



O my God, make them like a (l) wheel; as the stubble before the wind.



(l) Because the reprobate could by no means be amended, he prays that they may utterly be
destroyed, be unstable and led by all winds.
#BCV:Psalms 83:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 83:16>Psalms 83:16</verse></h3>



Fill their faces with shame; that they may (m) seek thy name, O LORD.



(m) That is, be compelled by your plagues to confess your power.
#BCV:Psalms 83:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 83:18>Psalms 83:18</verse></h3>



That [men] may (n) know that thou, whose name alone [is] JEHOVAH, [art] the most high over all
the earth.



(n) Though they do not believe, yet they may prove by experience, that it is in vain to resist against
your counsel in establishing your Church.

<h2>Psalms 84</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 84:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 84:1>Psalms 84:1</verse></h3>

<page=1369>"To the chief Musician upon Gittith, A Psalm for the sons of Korah." How amiable [are] thy
tabernacles, O (a) LORD of hosts!



(a) David complains that he cannot have access to the Church of God to make profession of his
faith, and to profit in religion.
#BCV:Psalms 84:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 84:2>Psalms 84:2</verse></h3>



My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the (b) courts of the LORD: my heart and my flesh crieth
out for the living God.



(b) For only the priests could enter the sanctuary and the rest of the people into the courts.
#BCV:Psalms 84:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 84:3>Psalms 84:3</verse></h3>



Yea, the sparrow hath found an house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her
young, [even] thine (c) altars, O LORD of hosts, my King, and my God.



(c) So that the poor birds have more freedom than I.
#BCV:Psalms 84:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 84:5>Psalms 84:5</verse></h3>



Blessed [is] the man whose (d) strength [is] in thee; in whose heart [are] the ways [of them].



(d) Who trusts nothing in himself but in you only, and learns from you to rule his life.
#BCV:Psalms 84:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 84:6>Psalms 84:6</verse></h3>



[Who] passing through the valley of (c) Baca make it a well; the rain also filleth the pools.



(c) So that the poor birds have more freedom than I.
#BCV:Psalms 84:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 84:7>Psalms 84:7</verse></h3>



They go from (f) strength to strength, [every one of them] in Zion appeareth before God.



(f) They are never weary but increase in strength and courage till they come to God's house.
#BCV:Psalms 84:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 84:9>Psalms 84:9</verse></h3>

<page=1370>Behold, O God our shield, and look upon the face of thine (g) anointed.



(g) That is, for Christ's sake, whose figure I represent.
#BCV:Psalms 84:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 84:10>Psalms 84:10</verse></h3>



For (h) a day in thy courts [is] better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of
my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.



(h) He would rather live one day in God's Church than a thousand in the world.
#BCV:Psalms 84:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 84:11>Psalms 84:11</verse></h3>



For the LORD God [is] a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no (i) good [thing]
will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.



(i) But will from time to time increase his blessings toward his more and more.

<h2>Psalms 85</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 85:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 85:1>Psalms 85:1</verse></h3>

<page=1371>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm for the sons of Korah." LORD, thou hast been (a) favourable unto
thy land: thou hast brought back the captivity of Jacob.



(a) They confess that God's free mercy was the cause of their deliverance because he loved the land
which he had chosen.
#BCV:Psalms 85:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 85:2>Psalms 85:2</verse></h3>



Thou hast forgiven the iniquity of thy people, thou hast (b) covered all their sin. Selah.



(b) You have buried them that they will not come into judgment.
#BCV:Psalms 85:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 85:3>Psalms 85:3</verse></h3>



Thou hast taken away all thy wrath: thou hast turned [thyself] from the (c) fierceness of thine anger.



(c) Not only in withdrawing your rod, but in forgiving sins, and in touching our hearts to confess
them.
#BCV:Psalms 85:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 85:5>Psalms 85:5</verse></h3>



Wilt thou be angry with us (d) for ever? wilt thou draw out thine anger to all generations?



(d) As in times past they had felt God's mercies, so now being oppressed by the long continuance of
evil, they pray to God that according to his nature he would be merciful to them.
#BCV:Psalms 85:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 85:7>Psalms 85:7</verse></h3>



Shew us thy mercy, O LORD, and grant us thy (e) salvation.



(e) He confesses that our salvation comes only from God's mercy.
#BCV:Psalms 85:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 85:8>Psalms 85:8</verse></h3>



I will hear what God the LORD will speak: for he will speak (f) peace unto his people, and to his
saints: but let them not turn again to folly.



(f) He will send all prosperity to his Church, when he has sufficiently corrected them, also by his
punishments the faithful will learn to beware that they not return the same offences.
#BCV:Psalms 85:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 85:11>Psalms 85:11</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 85:11
<h3><verse=psa 85:11>psa 85:11</verse></h3>




(g) Though for a time God thus exercises them with his rods, yet under the kingdom of Christ they
should have peace and joy.
#BCV:Psalms 85:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 85:13>Psalms 85:13</verse></h3>




(h) Righteousness shall go before him; and shall set [us] in the way of his steps.



(h) Justice will then flourish and have free course and passage in every place.

<h2>Psalms 86</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 86:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 86:1>Psalms 86:1</verse></h3>

<page=1373>"A Prayer of David." Bow down (a) thine ear, O LORD, hear me: for I [am] poor and needy.


(a) David, when persecuted by Saul, prayed this way, leaving the same to the Church as a monument,
how to seek relief against their miseries.
#BCV:Psalms 86:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 86:2>Psalms 86:2</verse></h3>



Preserve my soul; for I [am] (b) holy: O thou my God, save thy servant that trusteth in thee.



(b) I am not an enemy to them, but I pity them even though they are cruel to me.
#BCV:Psalms 86:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 86:3>Psalms 86:3</verse></h3>



Be merciful unto me, O Lord: for I (c) cry unto thee daily.



(c) Which was a fair token that he believed that God would deliver him.
#BCV:Psalms 86:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 86:5>Psalms 86:5</verse></h3>



For thou, Lord, [art] good, and (d) ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call
upon thee.



(d) He confesses that God is good to all but only merciful to poor sinners.
#BCV:Psalms 86:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 86:6>Psalms 86:6</verse></h3>



Give ear, O LORD, unto my prayer; and (e) attend to the voice of my supplications.



(e) By crying and calling continually he shows how we must not be weary, even though God does
not immediately grant our request but that we must earnestly and often call on him.
#BCV:Psalms 86:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 86:8>Psalms 86:8</verse></h3>



Among the gods [there is] none like unto thee, O Lord; neither (f) [are there any works] like unto thy
works.



(f) He condemns all idols as they can do nothing to declare that they are gods.
#BCV:Psalms 86:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 86:9>Psalms 86:9</verse></h3>

<page=1374>All nations whom thou hast made shall come and (g) worship before thee, O Lord; and shall glorify
thy name.



(g) This proves that David prayed in the Name of Christ the Messiah of whose kingdom he here
prophecies.
#BCV:Psalms 86:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 86:11>Psalms 86:11</verse></h3>




(h) Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name.



(h) He confesses himself ignorant till God has taught him, and his heart variable and separate from
God, till God join it to him, and confirm it in his obedience.
#BCV:Psalms 86:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 86:13>Psalms 86:13</verse></h3>



For great [is] thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from (i) the lowest hell.



(i) That is, from most great danger of death: out of which none but the almighty hand of God
could deliver him.
#BCV:Psalms 86:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 86:14>Psalms 86:14</verse></h3>



O God, the proud are risen against me, and the assemblies of violent [men] have (k) sought after my
soul; and have not set thee before them.



(k) He shows that there can be no moderation or equity where proud tyrants reign, and that the lack
of God's fear is as a privilege to all vice and cruelty.
#BCV:Psalms 86:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 86:16>Psalms 86:16</verse></h3>



O turn unto me, and have mercy upon me; give thy strength unto thy servant, and save the (l) son of
thine handmaid.



(l) He boasts not of his own virtues, but confesses that God of his free goodness has always been
merciful to him, and given him power against his enemies, as to one of his own household.

<h2>Psalms 87</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 87:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 87:1>Psalms 87:1</verse></h3>

<page=1375>"A Psalm [or] Song for the sons of Korah." His (a) foundation [is] in the holy mountains.



(a) God chose that place among the hills to establish Jerusalem and his temple.
#BCV:Psalms 87:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 87:3>Psalms 87:3</verse></h3>




(b) Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God. Selah.



(b) Though your glorious estate does not yet appear, wait with patience and God will accomplish his
promise.
#BCV:Psalms 87:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 87:4>Psalms 87:4</verse></h3>



I will make mention of (c) Rahab and Babylon to them that know me: behold Philistia, and Tyre,
with Ethiopia; (d) this [man] was born there.



(c) That is, Egypt and these other countries will come to the knowledge of God.



(d) It will be said of him who is regenerate and come to the Church, that he is as one who was born
in the Church.
#BCV:Psalms 87:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 87:5>Psalms 87:5</verse></h3>



And of Zion it shall be said, (e) This and that man was born in her: and the highest himself shall
establish her.



(e) Out of all quarters they will come to the Church, and be counted as citizens.
#BCV:Psalms 87:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 87:6>Psalms 87:6</verse></h3>



The LORD shall count, when he (f) writeth up the people, [that] this [man] was born there. Selah.



(f) When he calls them by his word into the Church, whom he had elected and written in the book.
#BCV:Psalms 87:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 87:7>Psalms 87:7</verse></h3>



As well the singers as the players on instruments [shall be there]: all my (g) springs [are] in thee.



(g) The prophet sets his whole affections and comfort in the church.

<h2>Psalms 88</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 88:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 88:1>Psalms 88:1</verse></h3>

<page=1376>"A Song [or] Psalm for the sons of Korah, to the chief Musician upon Mahalath (a) Leannoth,
Maschil of Heman the Ezrahite." O LORD God of my salvation, I have cried day [and] night (b)
before thee:



(a) That is, to humble. It was the beginning of a song by which tune this psalm was sung.



(b) Though many cry in their sorrows, yet they cry not earnestly to God for remedy as he did whom
he confessed to be the author of his salvation.
#BCV:Psalms 88:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 88:5>Psalms 88:5</verse></h3>




(c) Free among the dead, like the slain that lie in the grave, whom thou rememberest no more: and
they are cut off from thy (d) hand.



(c) For he who is dead is free from all cares and business of this life and thus he says because he was
unprofitable for all matters concerning man's life, and as it were cut off from this world.



(d) That is, from your providence and care, which is meant according to the judgment of the flesh.
#BCV:Psalms 88:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 88:7>Psalms 88:7</verse></h3>



Thy wrath lieth hard upon me, and thou hast afflicted [me] with all thy (e) waves. Selah.



(e) The storms of your wrath have overwhelmed me.
#BCV:Psalms 88:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 88:8>Psalms 88:8</verse></h3>



Thou hast put away mine (f) acquaintance far from me; thou hast made me an abomination unto
them: (g) [I am] shut up, and I cannot come forth.



(f) He attributes the loss and displeasure of his friends to God's providence by which he partly
punishes and partly tries his.



(g) I see no end to my sorrows.
#BCV:Psalms 88:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 88:9>Psalms 88:9</verse></h3>




(h) Mine eye mourneth by reason of affliction: LORD, I have called daily upon thee, I have
stretched out my hands unto thee.



(h) My eyes and face declare my sorrows.
#BCV:Psalms 88:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 88:10>Psalms 88:10</verse></h3>

<page=1377>Wilt thou shew (i) wonders to the dead? shall the dead arise [and] praise thee? Selah.



(i) He shows that the time is more convenient for God to help when men call to him in their dangers,
than to tarry till they are dead, and then raise them up again.
#BCV:Psalms 88:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 88:12>Psalms 88:12</verse></h3>



Shall thy wonders be known in the dark? and thy righteousness in the land (k) of forgetfulness?



(k) That is, in the grave, where only the body lies without all sense and remembrance.
#BCV:Psalms 88:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 88:15>Psalms 88:15</verse></h3>



I [am] afflicted and ready to die (l) from [my] youth up: [while] I suffer thy terrors I am distracted.



(l) I am always in great dangers and sorrows as though my life would utterly be cut off every
moment.

<h2>Psalms 89</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 89:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:1>Psalms 89:1</verse></h3>

<page=1378>"Maschil of Ethan the Ezrahite." I will (a) sing of the mercies of the LORD for ever: with my
mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all generations.



(a) Though the horrible confusion of things might cause them to despair of God's favour, yet the
manifold examples of his mercies cause them to trust in God though to man's judgment they saw
no reason to.
#BCV:Psalms 89:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:2>Psalms 89:2</verse></h3>



For I have (b) said, Mercy shall be built up for ever: thy faithfulness shalt thou (c) establish in the
very heavens.



(b) As he who surely believed in heart.



(c) As your invisible heaven is not subject to any alteration and change: so shall the truth of your
promise be unchangeable.
#BCV:Psalms 89:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:3>Psalms 89:3</verse></h3>




(d) I have made a covenant with my chosen, I have sworn unto David my servant,



(d) The prophet shows what the promise of God was, on which he grounded his faith.
#BCV:Psalms 89:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:5>Psalms 89:5</verse></h3>



And the (e) heavens shall praise thy wonders, O LORD: thy faithfulness also in the congregation of
the saints.



(e) The angels will praise your power and faithfulness in delivering your Church.
#BCV:Psalms 89:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:6>Psalms 89:6</verse></h3>



For who in the heaven can be compared unto the LORD? [who] among the (g) sons of the mighty
can be likened unto the LORD?



(g) Meaning, the angels.
#BCV:Psalms 89:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:7>Psalms 89:7</verse></h3>

<page=1379>God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the (h) saints, and to be had in reverence of all [them
that are] about him.



(h) If the angels tremble before God's majesty and infinite justice, what earthly creature by
oppressing the Church dares to set himself against God?
#BCV:Psalms 89:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:9>Psalms 89:9</verse></h3>




(i) Thou rulest the raging of the sea: when the waves thereof arise, thou stillest them.



(i) For as he delivered the Church by the Red sea, and by destroying Rahab, that is, the Egyptians, so
will he deliver it, when the dangers are great.
#BCV:Psalms 89:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:12>Psalms 89:12</verse></h3>



The north and the south thou hast created them: (k) Tabor and Hermon shall rejoice in thy name.



(k) Tabor is a mountain west from Jerusalem, and Hermon to the East, so the prophet signifies that
all parts and places of the world will obey God's power for the deliverance of his Church.
#BCV:Psalms 89:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:14>Psalms 89:14</verse></h3>




(l) Justice and judgment [are] the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face.



(l) For by this he judges the world and shows himself to be a merciful father and faithful protector
to his.
#BCV:Psalms 89:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:15>Psalms 89:15</verse></h3>



Blessed [is] the people that (m) know the joyful sound: they shall walk, O LORD, in the light of thy



(n) countenance.



(m) Feeling in their conscience that God is their father.



(n) They will be preserved by your fatherly providence.
#BCV:Psalms 89:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:17>Psalms 89:17</verse></h3>



For thou [art] the (o) glory of their strength: and in thy favour our horn shall be exalted.



(o) In that they are preserved and continue, they should give the praise and glory to you alone.
#BCV:Psalms 89:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:18>Psalms 89:18</verse></h3>



For the LORD [is] our (p) defence; and the Holy One of Israel [is] our king.

<page=1380>(p) In that our King has power to defend us, it is the gift of God.
#BCV:Psalms 89:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:19>Psalms 89:19</verse></h3>



Then thou spakest in vision to (q) thy holy one, and saidst, I have laid help upon [one that is] (r)
mighty; I have exalted [one] chosen out of the people.



(q) To Samuel and to others, to assure that David was the chosen one.



(r) Whom I have both chosen and given strength to execute his office, as in (<bcv=Psa 89:21>Psa 89:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 89:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:23>Psalms 89:23</verse></h3>



And I will (s) beat down his foes before his face, and plague them that hate him.



(s) Though there will always be enemies against God's kingdom yet he promises to overcome them.
#BCV:Psalms 89:24
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:24>Psalms 89:24</verse></h3>



But my faithfulness and my (t) mercy [shall be] with him: and in my name shall his (u) horn be
exalted.



(t) I will mercifully perform my promise to him despite his infirmities and offences.



(u) His power, glory and estate.
#BCV:Psalms 89:25
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:25>Psalms 89:25</verse></h3>



I will set his hand also in the sea, and his right hand in the (x) rivers.



(x) He will enjoy the land around him.
#BCV:Psalms 89:26
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:26>Psalms 89:26</verse></h3>



He shall cry unto me, Thou [art] my (y) father, my God, and the rock of my salvation.



(y) His excellent dignity will appear in this, that he will be named the son of God and the firstborn
in which he is a figure of Christ.
#BCV:Psalms 89:29
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:29>Psalms 89:29</verse></h3>



His seed also will I make [to endure] (z) for ever, and his throne as the days of heaven.



(z) Though for the sins of the people the state of the kingdom decayed, yet God reserved still a root
till he had accomplished this promise in Christ.
#BCV:Psalms 89:33
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:33>Psalms 89:33</verse></h3>


<page=1381>(a) Nevertheless my lovingkindness will I not utterly take from him, nor suffer my faithfulness to fail.



(a) Though the faithful answer not in all points to their profession, yet God will not break his
covenant with them.
#BCV:Psalms 89:34
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:34>Psalms 89:34</verse></h3>



My covenant will I not break, nor (b) alter the thing that is gone out of my lips.



(b) For God in promising has respect to his mercy, and not to man's power in performing.
#BCV:Psalms 89:37
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:37>Psalms 89:37</verse></h3>



It shall be established for ever as the moon, and [as] a faithful (c) witness in heaven. Selah.



(c) As long as the Sun and Moon endure, they will be witnesses to me of this promise.
#BCV:Psalms 89:39
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:39>Psalms 89:39</verse></h3>



Thou hast (d) made void the covenant of thy servant: thou hast profaned his (e) crown [by casting it]
to the ground.



(d) Because of the horrible confusion of things, the prophet complains to God, as though he did
not see the performance of his promise and thus discharging his cares on God, he resists doubt and
impatience.



(e) By this he means the horrible dissipation and tearing of the kingdom which was under Jeroboam,
or else by the Spirit of prophecy Ethan speaks of those great miseries which came to pass soon
after at the captivity of Babylon.
#BCV:Psalms 89:45
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:45>Psalms 89:45</verse></h3>



The days of his (f) youth hast thou shortened: thou hast covered him with shame. Selah.



(f) He shows that the kingdom fell before it came to perfection or was ripe.
#BCV:Psalms 89:46
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:46>Psalms 89:46</verse></h3>



How long, (g) LORD? wilt thou hide thyself for ever? shall thy wrath burn like fire?



(g) The prophet in joining prayer with his complaint, shows that his faith never failed.
#BCV:Psalms 89:47
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:47>Psalms 89:47</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 89:47
<h3><verse=psa 89:47>psa 89:47</verse></h3>




(h) Seeing man's life is short, and you have created man to bestow your benefits on him, unless you
hasten to help, death will prevent you.
#BCV:Psalms 89:50
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:50>Psalms 89:50</verse></h3>



Remember, Lord, the reproach of thy servants; [how] I do bear in my (i) bosom [the reproach of] all
the mighty people;



(i) He means that God's enemies not only slandered him behind his back, but also mocked him to
his face and as it were cast their injuries in his bosom.
#BCV:Psalms 89:51
<h3><verse=Psalms 89:51>Psalms 89:51</verse></h3>



Wherewith (k) thine enemies have reproached, O LORD; wherewith they have reproached the (l)
footsteps of thine anointed.



(k) So he calls them who persecute the Church.



(l) They laugh at us who patiently wait for the coming of your Christ.

<h2>Psalms 90</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 90:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 90:1>Psalms 90:1</verse></h3>

<page=1383>"A Prayer of Moses (a) the man of God." Lord, thou hast been our (b) dwelling place in all
generations.



(a) Thus the Scripture refers to the prophets.



(b) You have been as a house and defence to us in all our troubles and travels now this four hundred
years.
#BCV:Psalms 90:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 90:2>Psalms 90:2</verse></h3>



Before the (c) mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world,
even from everlasting to everlasting, thou [art] God.



(c) You have chosen us to be your people before the foundations of the world were laid.
#BCV:Psalms 90:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 90:3>Psalms 90:3</verse></h3>



Thou (d) turnest man to destruction; and sayest, Return, ye children of men.



(d) Moses by lamenting the frailty and shortness of man's life moves God to pity.
#BCV:Psalms 90:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 90:4>Psalms 90:4</verse></h3>




(e) For a thousand years in thy sight [are but] as yesterday when it is past, and [as] a watch in the
night.



(e) Though man thinks his life is long, which is indeed most short, yet though it were a thousand
years, yet in God's sight it is as nothing, and as the watch that lasts only three hours.
#BCV:Psalms 90:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 90:5>Psalms 90:5</verse></h3>



Thou (f) carriest them away as with a flood; they are [as] a sleep: in the morning [they are] like grass
[which] groweth up.



(f) You take them away suddenly as with a flood.
#BCV:Psalms 90:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 90:7>Psalms 90:7</verse></h3>



For we are (g) consumed by thine anger, and by thy wrath are we troubled.



(g) You called us by the rods to consider the storms of our life and for our sins you shorten our days.
#BCV:Psalms 90:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 90:9>Psalms 90:9</verse></h3>

<page=1384>For all our days are passed away in thy wrath: we (h) spend our years as a tale [that is told].



(h) Our days are not only short but miserable as our sins daily provoke your wrath.
#BCV:Psalms 90:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 90:10>Psalms 90:10</verse></h3>



The days of our years [are] threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength [they be] (i)
fourscore years, yet [is] their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away.



(i) Meaning according to the common state of life.
#BCV:Psalms 90:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 90:11>Psalms 90:11</verse></h3>




(k) Who knoweth the power of thine anger? even according to thy fear, [so is] thy wrath.



(k) If man's life for the shortness of it is miserable, it is even more so if your wrath is on it, as they
who fear you only know.
#BCV:Psalms 90:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 90:12>Psalms 90:12</verse></h3>



So teach [us] to number our days, that we may apply [our] hearts unto (l) wisdom.



(l) Which is by considering the shortness of our life, and by meditating the heavenly joys.
#BCV:Psalms 90:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 90:13>Psalms 90:13</verse></h3>



Return, O LORD, (m) how long? and let it repent thee concerning thy servants.



(m) Meaning, will you be angry?
#BCV:Psalms 90:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 90:16>Psalms 90:16</verse></h3>




(n) Let thy work appear unto thy servants, and thy glory unto their (o) children.



(n) Even your mercy, which is the chiefest work.



(o) As God's promises belong well to their poverty, as to them, so Moses prays for the posterity.
#BCV:Psalms 90:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 90:17>Psalms 90:17</verse></h3>



And let the (p) beauty of the LORD our God be upon us: and (q) establish thou the work of our
hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it.

<page=1385>(p) Meaning, that is was obscured when he ceases to do good to his Church.



(q) For unless you guide us with your Holy Spirit, our enterprises cannot succeed.

<h2>Psalms 91</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 91:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 91:1>Psalms 91:1</verse></h3>

<page=1386>He that dwelleth in the (a) secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the
Almighty.



(a) He who makes God his defence and trust will perceive his protection to be a most sure safeguard.
#BCV:Psalms 91:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 91:2>Psalms 91:2</verse></h3>




(b) I will say of the LORD, [He is] my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.



(b) Being assured of this protection, he prays to the Lord.
#BCV:Psalms 91:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 91:3>Psalms 91:3</verse></h3>



Surely he shall deliver thee from the (c) snare of the fowler, [and] from the noisome pestilence.



(c) That is, God's help is most ready for us, whether Satan assails us secretly which he calls a snare,
or openly which is here meant by the pestilence.
#BCV:Psalms 91:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 91:4>Psalms 91:4</verse></h3>



He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his (d) truth [shall be thy]
shield and buckler.



(d) That is, his faithful keeping of promises to help you in your need.
#BCV:Psalms 91:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 91:5>Psalms 91:5</verse></h3>




(e) Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; [nor] for the arrow [that] flieth by day;



(e) The care that God has over his is sufficient to defend them from all dangers.
#BCV:Psalms 91:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 91:8>Psalms 91:8</verse></h3>



Only with thine (f) eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.



(f) The godly will have some experience of God's judgements against the wicked even in this life,
but they will see it fully at that day when all things will be revealed.
#BCV:Psalms 91:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 91:11>Psalms 91:11</verse></h3>


<page=1387>(g) For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.



(g) God has not appointed one angel to every man, but many to be ministers of his providence to
keep and defend his in their calling, which is the way to walk in without tempting God.
#BCV:Psalms 91:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 91:13>Psalms 91:13</verse></h3>



Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the (h) young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample
under feet.



(h) You will not only be preserved from all evil, but overcome it whether it is secret or open.
#BCV:Psalms 91:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 91:14>Psalms 91:14</verse></h3>




(i) Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because
he hath known my name.



(i) To assure the faithful of God's protection, he brings in God to confirm the same.
#BCV:Psalms 91:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 91:16>Psalms 91:16</verse></h3>



With (k) long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.



(k) For he is content with that life that God gives for by death the shortness of this life is
recompensed with immortality.

<h2>Psalms 92</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 92:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 92:1>Psalms 92:1</verse></h3>

<page=1388>"A Psalm [or] Song for the (a) sabbath day." [It is a] good [thing] to give thanks unto the LORD, and
to sing praises unto thy name, O most High:



(a) Which teaches that the use of the Sabbath stands in praising God, and not only in ceasing from
work.
#BCV:Psalms 92:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 92:2>Psalms 92:2</verse></h3>



To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the (b) morning, and thy faithfulness every night,



(b) For God's mercy and fidelity in his promises toward his, bind them to praise him continually
both day and night.
#BCV:Psalms 92:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 92:3>Psalms 92:3</verse></h3>



Upon an (c) instrument of ten strings, and upon the psaltery; upon the harp with a solemn sound.



(c) These instruments were then permitted in the Church as also they are now. (Ed.)
#BCV:Psalms 92:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 92:4>Psalms 92:4</verse></h3>



For thou, LORD, hast made me glad through thy (d) work: I will triumph in the works of thy hands.



(d) He shows the use of the Sabbath day: that is, to meditate God's works.
#BCV:Psalms 92:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 92:6>Psalms 92:6</verse></h3>



A (e) brutish man knoweth not; neither doth a fool understand this.



(e) That is, the wicked do not consider God's works nor his judgments against them, and therefore
most justly perish.
#BCV:Psalms 92:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 92:8>Psalms 92:8</verse></h3>



But thou, LORD, [art (f) most] high for evermore.



(f) Your judgments are most constant against the wicked and pass our reach.
#BCV:Psalms 92:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 92:10>Psalms 92:10</verse></h3>


<page=1389>(g) But my horn shalt thou exalt like [the horn of] an unicorn: I shall be anointed with fresh oil.



(g) You will strengthen them with all power, and bless them with all happiness.
#BCV:Psalms 92:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 92:12>Psalms 92:12</verse></h3>



The righteous shall (h) flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon.



(h) Though the faithful seem to whither and be cut down by the wicked, yet they will grow again and
flourish in the Church of God as the cedars do in mount Lebanon.
#BCV:Psalms 92:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 92:14>Psalms 92:14</verse></h3>



They shall still bring forth fruit in old (i) age; they shall be fat and flourishing;



(i) The children of God will have a power above nature and their age will bring forth fresh fruit.

<h2>Psalms 93</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 93:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 93:1>Psalms 93:1</verse></h3>

<page=1390>The LORD (a) reigneth, he is clothed with majesty; the LORD is clothed with strength, [wherewith]
he hath girded himself: the world also is stablished, that it cannot be moved.



(a) As God by his power and wisdom has made and governed the world, so must the same be our
defence against all enemies and dangers.
#BCV:Psalms 93:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 93:2>Psalms 93:2</verse></h3>



Thy (b) throne [is] established of old: thou [art] from everlasting.



(b) In which you sit and govern the world.
#BCV:Psalms 93:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 93:3>Psalms 93:3</verse></h3>




(c) The floods have lifted up, O LORD, the floods have lifted up their voice; the floods lift up their
waves.



(c) God's power appears in ruling the furious waters.
#BCV:Psalms 93:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 93:5>Psalms 93:5</verse></h3>



Thy (d) testimonies are very sure: holiness becometh thine house, O LORD, for ever.



(d) Besides God's power and wisdom in creating and governing his great mercy also appears in that
he has given his people his word and covenant.

<h2>Psalms 94</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 94:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 94:1>Psalms 94:1</verse></h3>

<page=1391>O LORD God, to whom (a) vengeance belongeth; O God, to whom vengeance belongeth, (b) shew
thyself.



(a) Whose office it is to take vengeance on the wicked.



(b) Show by effect that you are judge of the world to punish the wicked.
#BCV:Psalms 94:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 94:3>Psalms 94:3</verse></h3>



LORD, how long shall the wicked, how long shall the wicked (c) triumph?



(c) That is, brag of their cruelty and oppression, or esteem themselves above all others.
#BCV:Psalms 94:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 94:5>Psalms 94:5</verse></h3>



They (d) break in pieces thy people, O LORD, and afflict thine heritage.



(d) Seeing the Church was then so sore oppressed, it ought not to seem strange to us, if we see it so
now, and therefore we must call to God, to take our cause in hand.
#BCV:Psalms 94:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 94:7>Psalms 94:7</verse></h3>




(e) Yet they say, The LORD shall not see, neither shall the God of Jacob regard [it].



(e) He shows that they are desperate in malice, as they did not fear God, but gave themselves wholly
to do wickedly.
#BCV:Psalms 94:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 94:9>Psalms 94:9</verse></h3>



He that (f) planted the ear, shall he not hear? he that formed the eye, shall he not see?



(f) He shows that it is impossible, but God should hear, see, and understand their wickedness.
#BCV:Psalms 94:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 94:10>Psalms 94:10</verse></h3>



He that chastiseth the (g) heathen, shall not he correct? he that teacheth man knowledge, [shall not
he know]?



(g) If God punishes whole nations for their sins, it is mere folly for any one man or else a few to
think that God will spare them.
#BCV:Psalms 94:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 94:12>Psalms 94:12</verse></h3>

<page=1392>Blessed [is] the man whom thou (h) chastenest, O LORD, and teachest him out of thy law;



(h) God has care over his, and chastised them for their own good, that they should not perish for
ever with the wicked.
#BCV:Psalms 94:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 94:15>Psalms 94:15</verse></h3>



But (i) judgment shall return unto righteousness: and all the upright in heart shall follow it.



(i) God will restore the state and government of things to their right use, and then the godly will
follow him cheerfully.
#BCV:Psalms 94:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 94:17>Psalms 94:17</verse></h3>



Unless the LORD [had been] my (k) help, my soul had almost dwelt in silence.



(k) He complains of them who would not help him to resist the enemies, yet was assured that God's
help would not fail.
#BCV:Psalms 94:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 94:18>Psalms 94:18</verse></h3>



When I said, (l) My foot slippeth; thy mercy, O LORD, held me up.



(l) When I thought there was no way but death.
#BCV:Psalms 94:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 94:19>Psalms 94:19</verse></h3>



In the multitude of my (m) thoughts within me thy comforts delight my soul.



(m) In my trouble and distress I always found your present help.
#BCV:Psalms 94:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 94:20>Psalms 94:20</verse></h3>



Shall the throne of iniquity have (n) fellowship with thee, which frameth mischief by a law?



(n) Though the wicked judges pretend justice in oppressing the Church, yet they do not have the
authority of God.
#BCV:Psalms 94:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 94:23>Psalms 94:23</verse></h3>

<page=1393>And he shall bring upon them their own iniquity, and shall (o) cut them off in their own wickedness;
[yea], the LORD our God shall cut them off.



(o) It is a great token of God's judgment when the purpose of the wicked is broken, but most, when
they are destroyed in their own malice.

<h2>Psalms 95</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 95:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 95:1>Psalms 95:1</verse></h3>

<page=1394>O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a (a) joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.



(a) He shows that God's service stands not in dead ceremonies, but chiefly in the sacrifice of praise
and thanksgiving.
#BCV:Psalms 95:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 95:3>Psalms 95:3</verse></h3>



For the LORD [is] a great God, and a great King above all (b) gods.



(b) Even the angels (who in respect to men are thought as gods) are nothing in his sight, much less
the idols, which man's brain invents.
#BCV:Psalms 95:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 95:4>Psalms 95:4</verse></h3>



In his hand [are] the deep places of the earth: the (c) strength of the hills [is] his also.



(c) All things are governed by his providence.
#BCV:Psalms 95:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 95:6>Psalms 95:6</verse></h3>



O come, let us (d) worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker.



(d) By these three words he signifies one thing: meaning that they must wholly give themselves to
serve God.
#BCV:Psalms 95:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 95:7>Psalms 95:7</verse></h3>



For he [is] our God; and we [are] the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his (e) hand. To day if
ye will hear his voice,



(e) That is, the flock whom he governs with his own hand. He shows how they are God's flock, that
is, if they hear his voice.
#BCV:Psalms 95:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 95:8>Psalms 95:8</verse></h3>




(f) Harden not your heart, as in the provocation, [and] as [in] the day of temptation in the wilderness:



(f) By the contemning of God's word.
#BCV:Psalms 95:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 95:10>Psalms 95:10</verse></h3>

<page=1395>Forty years long was I grieved with [this] generation, and said, It [is] a people that do (g) err in their
heart, and they have not known my ways:



(g) They were without judgment and reason.
#BCV:Psalms 95:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 95:11>Psalms 95:11</verse></h3>



Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into (h) my rest.



(h) That is, into the land of Canaan, where he promised them rest.

<h2>Psalms 96</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 96:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 96:1>Psalms 96:1</verse></h3>

<page=1396>O sing (a) unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth.



(a) The prophet shows that the time will come, that all nations will have opportunity to praise the
Lord for the revealing of his gospel.
#BCV:Psalms 96:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 96:4>Psalms 96:4</verse></h3>



For the LORD [is] (b) great, and greatly to be praised: he [is] to be feared above all gods.



(b) Seeing he will reveal himself to all nations contrary to their own expectation, they should all
worship him contrary to their own imaginations, and only as he has appointed.
#BCV:Psalms 96:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 96:5>Psalms 96:5</verse></h3>



For all the gods of the nations [are] idols: but the LORD (c) made the heavens.



(c) Then the idols or whatever did not make the heavens, are not God.
#BCV:Psalms 96:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 96:6>Psalms 96:6</verse></h3>




(d) Honour and majesty [are] before him: strength and beauty [are] in his sanctuary.



(d) God cannot be known but by his strength and glory, the signs of which appear in his sanctuary.
#BCV:Psalms 96:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 96:7>Psalms 96:7</verse></h3>



Give unto the LORD, O ye kindreds of the people, give unto the LORD glory and (e) strength.



(e) As by experience you see that it is only due to him.
#BCV:Psalms 96:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 96:8>Psalms 96:8</verse></h3>



Give unto the LORD the glory [due unto] his name: bring (f) an offering, and come into his courts.



(f) By offering up yourselves wholly to God, declare that you worship him only.
#BCV:Psalms 96:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 96:10>Psalms 96:10</verse></h3>



Say among the (g) heathen [that] the LORD reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall
not be moved: he shall judge the people (h) righteously.

<page=1397>(g) He prophecies that the Gentiles will be partakers with the Jews of God's promise.



(h) He will regenerate them anew with his Spirit, and restore them to the image of God.
#BCV:Psalms 96:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 96:12>Psalms 96:12</verse></h3>



Let the field be joyful, and all that [is] therein: then shall all the (i) trees of the wood rejoice



(i) If the insensible creatures will have reason to rejoice when God appears, much more we, from
whom he has taken malediction and sin.

<h2>Psalms 97</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 97:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 97:1>Psalms 97:1</verse></h3>

<page=1398>The (a) LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the (b) multitude of isles be glad [thereof].



(a) He shows that where God reigns, there is all happiness and spiritual joy.



(b) For the gospel will not only be preached in Judea, but through all isles and countries.
#BCV:Psalms 97:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 97:2>Psalms 97:2</verse></h3>




(c) Clouds and darkness [are] round about him: righteousness and judgment [are] the habitation of
his throne.



(c) He is thus described to keep his enemies in fear, who commonly contemn God's power.
#BCV:Psalms 97:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 97:4>Psalms 97:4</verse></h3>



His lightnings enlightened the world: the earth saw, and (d) trembled.



(d) This fear does not bring the wicked to true obedience, but makes them run away from God.
#BCV:Psalms 97:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 97:7>Psalms 97:7</verse></h3>




(e) Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, (f)
all [ye] gods.



(e) He signifies that God's judgments are ready to destroy the idolatry.



(f) Let all who are esteemed in the world fall down before him.
#BCV:Psalms 97:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 97:8>Psalms 97:8</verse></h3>



Zion heard, and was glad; and the (g) daughters of Judah rejoiced because of thy judgments, O
LORD.



(g) The Jews will have opportunity to rejoice that the Gentiles are made partakers with them of
God's favour.
#BCV:Psalms 97:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 97:10>Psalms 97:10</verse></h3>

<page=1399>Ye that (h) love the LORD, hate evil: he preserveth the souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of
the hand of the wicked.



(h) He requires two things from his children: the one that they detest vice, the other, that they put
their trust in God for their deliverance.
#BCV:Psalms 97:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 97:11>Psalms 97:11</verse></h3>




(i) Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.



(i) Though God's deliverance does not appear suddenly, yet it is sown and laid up in store for them.
#BCV:Psalms 97:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 97:12>Psalms 97:12</verse></h3>



Rejoice in the LORD, ye righteous; and give thanks at the (k) remembrance of his holiness.



(k) Be mindful of his benefits and only trust in his defence.

<h2>Psalms 98</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 98:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 98:1>Psalms 98:1</verse></h3>

<page=1400>"A Psalm." O sing (a) unto the LORD a new song; for he hath done marvellous things: his right
hand, and his holy (b) arm, hath gotten him the victory.



(a) That is, some song newly made in token of their wonderful deliverance by Christ.



(b) He preserves his Church miraculously.
#BCV:Psalms 98:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 98:2>Psalms 98:2</verse></h3>



The LORD hath made known his (c) salvation: his righteousness hath he openly shewed in the sight
of the heathen.



(c) For the deliverance of his Church.
#BCV:Psalms 98:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 98:3>Psalms 98:3</verse></h3>



He hath (d) remembered his mercy and his truth toward the house of Israel: all the ends of the
earth have seen the salvation of our God.



(d) God was moved by no other means to gather his Church from the Jews and Gentiles, but
because he would perform his promise.
#BCV:Psalms 98:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 98:6>Psalms 98:6</verse></h3>



With (e) trumpets and sound of cornet make a joyful noise before the LORD, the King.



(e) By this repetition and earnest exhortation to give praise with instruments, and also of the dumb
creatures, he signifies that the world is never able to praise God sufficiently for their deliverance.

<h2>Psalms 99</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 99:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 99:1>Psalms 99:1</verse></h3>

<page=1401>The LORD reigneth; let the (a) people tremble: he sitteth [between] the cherubims; let the earth be
moved.



(a) When God delivers his Church all the enemies will have reason to tremble.
#BCV:Psalms 99:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 99:3>Psalms 99:3</verse></h3>



Let them (b) praise thy great and terrible name; [for] it [is] holy.



(b) Though the wicked rage against God, the godly will praise his Name and mighty power.
#BCV:Psalms 99:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 99:5>Psalms 99:5</verse></h3>



Exalt ye the LORD our God, and worship at his (c) footstool; [for] he [is] holy.



(c) That is, before his temple or ark, where he promised to hear when they worshipped him, as now
he promises his spiritual presence, wherever his Church is assembled.
#BCV:Psalms 99:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 99:6>Psalms 99:6</verse></h3>



Moses and Aaron among his priests, (d) and Samuel among them that call upon his name; they
called upon the LORD, and he answered them.



(d) Under these three he comprehends the whole people of Israel, with whom God made his
promise.
#BCV:Psalms 99:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 99:8>Psalms 99:8</verse></h3>



Thou answeredst them, O LORD our God: thou wast a God that forgavest them, though thou
tookest vengeance of (e) their inventions.



(e) The more liberally God deals with his people, the more he punishes them who abuse his benefits.

<h2>Psalms 100</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 100:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 100:1>Psalms 100:1</verse></h3>

<page=1402>"A Psalm of praise." Make a (a) joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.



(a) He prophecies that God's benefits in calling the Gentiles will be so great that they will have
wonderful opportunity to praise his mercy and rejoice.
#BCV:Psalms 100:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 100:3>Psalms 100:3</verse></h3>



Know ye that the LORD he [is] God: [it is] he [that] hath (b) made us, and not we ourselves; [we are]
his people, and the sheep of his pasture.



(b) He chiefly means concerning spiritual regeneration, by which we are his sheep and people.
#BCV:Psalms 100:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 100:4>Psalms 100:4</verse></h3>




(c) Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, [and] into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him,
[and] bless his name.



(c) He shows that God will not be worshipped, but by those means which he has appointed.
#BCV:Psalms 100:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 100:5>Psalms 100:5</verse></h3>



For the LORD [is] good; his mercy [is] (d) everlasting; and his truth [endureth] to all generations.



(d) He declares that we should never be weary in praising him, seeing his mercies toward us last
forever.

<h2>Psalms 101</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 101:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 101:1>Psalms 101:1</verse></h3>

<page=1403>"A Psalm of David." I will (a) sing of mercy and judgment: unto thee, O LORD, will I sing.



(a) David considers what manner of King he would be, when God would place him in the throne,
promising openly, that he would be merciful and just.
#BCV:Psalms 101:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 101:2>Psalms 101:2</verse></h3>



I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. (b) O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within
my house with a perfect heart.



(b) Though as yet you deferred to place me in the kingly dignity, yet I will give myself to wisdom
and uprightness being a private man.
#BCV:Psalms 101:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 101:3>Psalms 101:3</verse></h3>



I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate (c) the work of them that turn aside; [it] shall not
cleave to me.



(c) He shows that magistrates do not do their duties, unless they are enemies to all vice.
#BCV:Psalms 101:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 101:5>Psalms 101:5</verse></h3>



Whoso privily (d) slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off: him that hath an high look and a
proud heart will not I suffer.



(d) In promising to punish these vices, which are most pernicious in them that are about Kings, he
declares that he will punish all.
#BCV:Psalms 101:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 101:6>Psalms 101:6</verse></h3>



Mine eyes [shall be] upon the (e) faithful of the land, that they may dwell with me: he that walketh in
a perfect way, he shall serve me.



(e) He shows what the true use of the sword is, to punish the wicked and to maintain the good.
#BCV:Psalms 101:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 101:8>Psalms 101:8</verse></h3>




(f) I will early destroy all the wicked of the land; that I may cut off all wicked doers from the city of
the LORD.

<page=1404>(f) Magistrates must immediately punish vice, lest it grow to further inconvenience; and if heathen
magistrates are bound to do this, how much more they who have the charge of the Church of God?

<h2>Psalms 102</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 102:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:1>Psalms 102:1</verse></h3>

<page=1405>"A Prayer (a) of the afflicted, when he is overwhelmed, and poureth out his complaint before the
LORD." Hear my prayer, O LORD, and let my (b) cry come unto thee.



(a) By which is signified, that even though we are in great misery, yet there is always room for prayer.



(b) He declares that in our prayer we must lively feel that which we desire, and steadfastly believe to
obtain.
#BCV:Psalms 102:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:3>Psalms 102:3</verse></h3>



For my days are (c) consumed like smoke, and my bones are burned as an hearth.



(c) These excessive kinds of speech show how much the affliction of the Church should wound the
hearts of the godly.
#BCV:Psalms 102:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:4>Psalms 102:4</verse></h3>



My heart is smitten, and withered like grass; so that I forget (d) to eat my bread.



(d) My sorrows were so great that I did not eat.
#BCV:Psalms 102:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:6>Psalms 102:6</verse></h3>



I am like a (e) pelican of the wilderness: I am like an owl of the desert.



(e) Always mourning in solitude and casting out fearful cries.
#BCV:Psalms 102:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:8>Psalms 102:8</verse></h3>



Mine enemies reproach me all the day; [and] they that are mad against me are (f) sworn against me.



(f) Have conspired my death.
#BCV:Psalms 102:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:9>Psalms 102:9</verse></h3>



For I have (g) eaten ashes like bread, and mingled my drink with weeping,



(g) I have not risen out of my mourning to take my refreshment.
#BCV:Psalms 102:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:10>Psalms 102:10</verse></h3>

<page=1406>Because of thine (h) indignation and thy wrath: for thou hast lifted me up, and cast me down.



(h) He shows that not only the afflictions moved him, but chiefly the feeling of God's displeasure.
#BCV:Psalms 102:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:12>Psalms 102:12</verse></h3>



But thou, O LORD, shalt (i) endure for ever; and thy remembrance unto all generations.



(i) Though we are frail, yet your promise is sure, and the remembrance of it will confirm us forever.
#BCV:Psalms 102:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:13>Psalms 102:13</verse></h3>



Thou shalt arise, [and] have mercy upon Zion: for the time to favour her, yea, the (k) set time, is
come.



(k) That is, the seventy years which by the prophet Jeremiah you appointed, (<bcv=Jer 29:12>Jer 29:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 102:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:14>Psalms 102:14</verse></h3>



For thy servants take pleasure in her (l) stones, and favour the dust thereof.



(l) The more the Church is in misery and desolation, the more the faithful should love and pity it.
#BCV:Psalms 102:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:16>Psalms 102:16</verse></h3>



When the LORD shall build up Zion, he shall appear (m) in his glory.



(m) That is, when he will have drawn his church out of the darkness of death.
#BCV:Psalms 102:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:18>Psalms 102:18</verse></h3>



This shall be written for the generation to come: and the people which shall be (n) created shall
praise the LORD.



(n) The deliverance of the Church is an excellent benefit, and therefore he compares it to a new
creation for in their banishment the body of the Church seemed to have been dead, which by
deliverance was as it were created anew.
#BCV:Psalms 102:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:20>Psalms 102:20</verse></h3>



To hear the groaning of the prisoner; to loose those that are (o) appointed to death;



(o) Who now in their banishment could look for nothing but death.
#BCV:Psalms 102:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:22>Psalms 102:22</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 102:22
<h3><verse=psa 102:22>psa 102:22</verse></h3>




(p) He shows that Gad's name is never more praised, than when religion flourishes and the church
increases: which is chiefly accomplished under the kingdom of Christ.
#BCV:Psalms 102:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:23>Psalms 102:23</verse></h3>



He (q) weakened my strength in the way; he shortened my days.



(q) The church lament that they see not the time of Christ, which was promised, but have but few
years and short days.
#BCV:Psalms 102:26
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:26>Psalms 102:26</verse></h3>




(r) They shall perish, but thou shalt endure: yea, all of them shall wax old like a garment; as a vesture
shalt thou change them, and they shall be changed:



(r) If heaven and earth perish, much more man will perish: but the Church by reason of God's
promise endures forever.
#BCV:Psalms 102:28
<h3><verse=Psalms 102:28>Psalms 102:28</verse></h3>



The children of thy servants shall continue, and their seed shall (s) be established before thee.



(s) Seeing you have chosen your Church out of the world, and joined it to you, it cannot but
continue forever: for you are everlasting.

<h2>Psalms 103</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 103:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 103:1>Psalms 103:1</verse></h3>

<page=1408>"[A Psalm] of David." (a) Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, [bless] his holy
name.



(a) He wakens his dulness to praise God, showing that both understanding and affections, mind and
heart, are too little to set forth his praise.
#BCV:Psalms 103:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 103:3>Psalms 103:3</verse></h3>



Who (b) forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;



(b) That is, the beginning and chiefest of all benefits, remission of sin.
#BCV:Psalms 103:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 103:4>Psalms 103:4</verse></h3>



Who redeemeth thy life from (c) destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender
mercies;



(c) For before we have remission of our sins, we are as dead men in the grave.
#BCV:Psalms 103:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 103:5>Psalms 103:5</verse></h3>



Who satisfieth thy mouth with good [things; so that] thy (d) youth is renewed like the eagle's.



(d) As the eagle, when her beak overgrows, sucks blood and so is renewed in strength, even so God
miraculously gives strength to his Church above all man's expectations.
#BCV:Psalms 103:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 103:7>Psalms 103:7</verse></h3>



He made known his ways unto (e) Moses, his acts unto the children of Israel.



(e) As to his chief minister, and next to his people.
#BCV:Psalms 103:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 103:9>Psalms 103:9</verse></h3>



He will not always (f) chide: neither will he keep [his anger] for ever.



(f) He shows first his severe judgment, but as soon as the sinner is humbled, he receives him to
mercy.
#BCV:Psalms 103:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 103:10>Psalms 103:10</verse></h3>

<page=1409>He hath not (g) dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities.



(g) Who have proved by continual experience that his mercy has always prevailed against our
offences.
#BCV:Psalms 103:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 103:12>Psalms 103:12</verse></h3>



As far as (h) the east is from the west, [so] far hath he removed our transgressions from us.



(h) As great as the world is, so full is it of signs of God's mercies toward his faithful when he has
removed their sins.
#BCV:Psalms 103:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 103:15>Psalms 103:15</verse></h3>



[As for] (i) man, his days [are] as grass: as a flower of the field, so he flourisheth.



(i) He declares that man has nothing in himself to move God to mercy, but only the confession of
his infirmity and misery.
#BCV:Psalms 103:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 103:17>Psalms 103:17</verse></h3>



But the mercy of the LORD [is] from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his (k)
righteousness unto children's children;



(k) His just and faithful keeping of his promise.
#BCV:Psalms 103:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 103:18>Psalms 103:18</verse></h3>



To such as keep his (l) covenant, and to those that remember his commandments to do them.



(l) To whom he gives grace to fear him, and to obey his word.
#BCV:Psalms 103:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 103:20>Psalms 103:20</verse></h3>



Bless the LORD, ye (m) his angels, that excel in strength, that do his commandments, hearkening
unto the voice of his word.



(m) In that we, who naturally are slow to praise God, exhort the angels, who willingly do it, we stir
up ourselves to consider our duty and wake from our sluggishness.

<h2>Psalms 104</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 104:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:1>Psalms 104:1</verse></h3>

<page=1410>Bless the LORD, O my soul. O LORD my God, thou art very great; thou art (a) clothed with
honour and majesty.



(a) The prophet shows that we do not need to enter into the heavens to seek God, for as much as all
the order of nature, with the propriety and placing of the elements, are living mirrors to see his
majesty in.
#BCV:Psalms 104:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:4>Psalms 104:4</verse></h3>



Who (b) maketh his angels spirits; his ministers a flaming fire:



(b) As the prophet here shows that all visible powers are ready to serve God: so in (<bcv=Heb 1:7>Heb 1:7</bcv>) the
angels also, are obedient to his commandment.
#BCV:Psalms 104:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:6>Psalms 104:6</verse></h3>



Thou coveredst it with the (c) deep as [with] a garment: the (d) waters stood above the mountains.



(c) You make the sea to be an ornament to the earth.



(d) If by your power you did not bridle the rage of the waters, the whole world would be destroyed.
#BCV:Psalms 104:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:11>Psalms 104:11</verse></h3>



They give drink to every (e) beast of the field: the wild asses quench their thirst.



(e) If God provides for the beasts, much more will he extend his provident care to man.
#BCV:Psalms 104:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:12>Psalms 104:12</verse></h3>



By (f) them shall the fowls of the heaven have their habitation, [which] sing among the branches.



(f) There is no part of the world so barren where most evident signs of God's blessing do not
appear.
#BCV:Psalms 104:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:13>Psalms 104:13</verse></h3>



He watereth the hills from his (g) chambers: the earth is satisfied with the fruit of thy works.



(g) From the clouds.
#BCV:Psalms 104:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:14>Psalms 104:14</verse></h3>

<page=1411>He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of (h) man: that he may bring
forth food out of the earth;



(h) He describes God's providential care over man, who not only provides necessary things for him
such as herbs and other meat: but also things to rejoice and comfort him such as wine and oil or
ointments.
#BCV:Psalms 104:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:19>Psalms 104:19</verse></h3>



He appointed (i) the moon for seasons: (k) the sun knoweth his going down.



(i) As to separate the night from the day, and to note days, months and years.



(k) That is, by his course, either far or near, it notes summer, winter and other seasons.
#BCV:Psalms 104:21
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:21>Psalms 104:21</verse></h3>



The young lions roar after their prey, and seek their meat (l) from God.



(l) That is, they only find meat according to God's providence, who cares even for the brute beasts.
#BCV:Psalms 104:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:23>Psalms 104:23</verse></h3>




(m) Man goeth forth unto his work and to his labour until the evening.



(m) That is, when the day springs for the light is as it were a shield to defend man against the
tyranny and fierceness of beasts.
#BCV:Psalms 104:24
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:24>Psalms 104:24</verse></h3>



O LORD, how (n) manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of
thy riches.



(n) He confesses that no tongue is able to express God's works nor mind to comprehend them.
#BCV:Psalms 104:27
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:27>Psalms 104:27</verse></h3>




(o) These wait all upon thee; that thou mayest give [them] their meat in due season.



(o) God is a nourishing father, who provides for all creatures their daily foods.
#BCV:Psalms 104:29
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:29>Psalms 104:29</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 104:29
<h3><verse=psa 104:29>psa 104:29</verse></h3>



their dust.



(p) As by your presence all things have life; so if you withdraw your blessings they all perish.
#BCV:Psalms 104:30
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:30>Psalms 104:30</verse></h3>



Thou (q) sendest forth thy spirit, they are created: and thou renewest the face of the earth.



(q) As the death of creatures shows that we are nothing of ourselves: so their generation declares
that we receive all things from our Creator.
#BCV:Psalms 104:32
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:32>Psalms 104:32</verse></h3>



He looketh on the earth, and it trembleth: he toucheth the hills, and they (r) smoke.



(r) God's merciful face gives strength to the earth, but his severe countenance burns the mountains.
#BCV:Psalms 104:35
<h3><verse=Psalms 104:35>Psalms 104:35</verse></h3>



Let the sinners be (s) consumed out of the earth, and let the wicked be no more. Bless thou the
LORD, O my soul. Praise ye the LORD.



(s) Who infect the world, and so cause it to be that God cannot rejoice in his work.

<h2>Psalms 105</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 105:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:1>Psalms 105:1</verse></h3>



O give thanks unto the LORD; call upon his name: (a) make known his deeds among the people.



(a) For as much as the Israelites were exempted from the common condemnation of the world, and
were elected to be God's people, the prophet wills them to show themselves mindful by thanksgiving.
#BCV:Psalms 105:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:4>Psalms 105:4</verse></h3>



Seek the LORD, and his (b) strength: seek his face evermore.



(b) By the strength and face he means the ark where God declared his power and his presence.
#BCV:Psalms 105:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:5>Psalms 105:5</verse></h3>



Remember his (c) marvellous works that he hath done; his wonders, and the (d) judgments of his
mouth;

<page=1413>(c) Which he has wrought in the deliverance of his people.



(d) Because his power was declared living by this, as if he would have declared it by mouth.
#BCV:Psalms 105:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:9>Psalms 105:9</verse></h3>



Which [covenant] he (e) made with Abraham, and his oath unto Isaac;



(e) The promise God made to Abraham to be his God, and the God of his seed after him, he
renewed and repeated again to his seed after him.
#BCV:Psalms 105:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:11>Psalms 105:11</verse></h3>



Saying, (f) Unto thee will I give the land of Canaan, the lot of your inheritance:



(f) He shows that they would not enjoy the land of Canaan by any other means, but by reason of his
covenant made with their fathers.
#BCV:Psalms 105:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:14>Psalms 105:14</verse></h3>



He suffered no man to do them wrong: yea, he reproved (g) kings for their sakes;



(g) That is, the king of Egypt and the king of Gerar, (<bcv=Gen 12:17>Gen 12:17</bcv>,<bcv=Gen 20:3> Gen 20:3</bcv>)
#BCV:Psalms 105:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:15>Psalms 105:15</verse></h3>



[Saying], Touch not mine (h) anointed, and do my (i) prophets no harm.



(h) Those whom I have sanctified to be my people.



(i) Meaning, the old fathers, to whom God showed himself plainly, and who set forth his word.
#BCV:Psalms 105:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:16>Psalms 105:16</verse></h3>



Moreover he called for a famine upon the land: he brake the whole (k) staff of bread.



(k) Either by sending scarcity or the strength and nourishment of it.
#BCV:Psalms 105:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:19>Psalms 105:19</verse></h3>



Until (l) the time that his word came: the word of the LORD tried him.



(l) So long he suffered adversity as God had appointed, and till he had sufficiently tried his patience.
#BCV:Psalms 105:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:22>Psalms 105:22</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 105:22
<h3><verse=psa 105:22>psa 105:22</verse></h3>




(m) That the very princes of the countries would be at Joseph's commandment, and learn wisdom
from him.
#BCV:Psalms 105:25
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:25>Psalms 105:25</verse></h3>




(n) He turned their heart to hate his people, to deal subtilly with his servants.



(n) So it is in God, either to move the hearts of the wicked to love or to hate God's children.
#BCV:Psalms 105:28
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:28>Psalms 105:28</verse></h3>



He sent darkness, and made it dark; and they (o) rebelled not against his word.



(o) Meaning, Moses and Aaron.
#BCV:Psalms 105:31
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:31>Psalms 105:31</verse></h3>



He (p) spake, and there came divers sorts of flies, [and] lice in all their coasts.



(p) So that this vermin did not come by chance, but as God had appointed, and his prophet Moses
spoke.
#BCV:Psalms 105:32
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:32>Psalms 105:32</verse></h3>



He gave them (q) hail for rain, [and] flaming fire in their land.



(q) It was strange to see rain in Egypt, much more it was fearful to see hail.
#BCV:Psalms 105:34
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:34>Psalms 105:34</verse></h3>




(r) He spake, and the locusts came, and caterpillers, and that without number,



(r) He shows that all creatures are armed against man when God is his enemy as at his
commandment the grasshoppers destroyed the land.
#BCV:Psalms 105:37
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:37>Psalms 105:37</verse></h3>



He brought them forth also with silver and gold: and [there was] (s) not one feeble [person] among
their tribes.



(s) When their enemies felt God's plagues his children by his providence were exempted.
#BCV:Psalms 105:38
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:38>Psalms 105:38</verse></h3>

<page=1415>Egypt was (t) glad when they departed: for the fear of them fell upon them.



(t) For God's plagues caused them to prefer to depart with the Israelites rather than with their lives.
#BCV:Psalms 105:40
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:40>Psalms 105:40</verse></h3>



[The people] (u) asked, and he brought quails, and satisfied them with the bread of heaven.



(u) Not for necessity but for satisfying of their lust.
#BCV:Psalms 105:42
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:42>Psalms 105:42</verse></h3>



For he remembered his holy (x) promise, [and] Abraham his servant.



(x) Which he confirms to the posterity in whom after a sort the dead live and enjoy the promises.
#BCV:Psalms 105:43
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:43>Psalms 105:43</verse></h3>



And he brought forth his people with (y) joy, [and] his chosen with gladness:



(y) When the Egyptians lamented and were destroyed.
#BCV:Psalms 105:45
<h3><verse=Psalms 105:45>Psalms 105:45</verse></h3>



That they might (z) observe his statutes, and keep his laws. Praise ye the LORD.



(z) This is the reason why God preserves his Church, because they should worship and call on him
in this world.

<h2>Psalms 106</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 106:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:1>Psalms 106:1</verse></h3>

<page=1416>Praise (a) ye the LORD. O give thanks unto the LORD; for [he is] good: for his mercy [endureth]
for ever.



(a) The prophet exhorts the people to praise God for his past benefits, that by this their minds may
be strengthened against all present troubles and despair.
#BCV:Psalms 106:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:3>Psalms 106:3</verse></h3>



Blessed [are] they that (b) keep judgment, [and] he that doeth righteousness at all times.



(b) He shows that it is not enough to praise God with the mouth, unless the whole heart agrees to it,
and all our life framed after it.
#BCV:Psalms 106:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:4>Psalms 106:4</verse></h3>



Remember me, O LORD, with the (c) favour [that thou bearest unto] thy people: O visit me with
thy salvation;



(c) Let the good will that you bear to your people extend to me, that by it I may be received into
your number.
#BCV:Psalms 106:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:6>Psalms 106:6</verse></h3>



We have (d) sinned with our fathers, we have committed iniquity, we have done wickedly.



(d) By earnest confession of their sins and of their father's, they show that they hoped that God
according to his promise would pity them.
#BCV:Psalms 106:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:8>Psalms 106:8</verse></h3>



Nevertheless he (e) saved them for his name's sake, that he might make his mighty power to be
known.



(e) The inestimable goodness of God appears in this, that he would rather change the order of
nature than have his people not be delivered, even though they were wicked.
#BCV:Psalms 106:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:12>Psalms 106:12</verse></h3>



Then (f) believed they his words; they sang his praise.

<page=1417>(f) The wonderful words of God caused them to believe for a time, and to praise him.
#BCV:Psalms 106:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:13>Psalms 106:13</verse></h3>



They soon forgat his works; they waited not for his (g) counsel:



(g) The would prevent his wisdom and providence.
#BCV:Psalms 106:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:15>Psalms 106:15</verse></h3>



And he gave them their request; but sent (h) leanness into their soul.



(h) The abundance that God gave them did not profit, but made them pine away, because God
cursed it.
#BCV:Psalms 106:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:17>Psalms 106:17</verse></h3>



The earth opened and (i) swallowed up Dathan, and covered the company of Abiram.



(i) By the greatness of the punishment the heinousness of the offence may be considered: for they
who rise against God's ministers rebel against him.
#BCV:Psalms 106:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:20>Psalms 106:20</verse></h3>



Thus they changed their (k) glory into the similitude of an ox that eateth grass.



(k) He shows that all idolaters renounce God to be their glory when instead of him, they worship
any creature much more wood, stone, metal or calves.
#BCV:Psalms 106:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:23>Psalms 106:23</verse></h3>



Therefore he said that he would destroy them, had (l) not Moses his chosen stood before him in the
breach, to turn away his wrath, lest he should destroy [them].



(l) If Moses, by his intercession, had not obtained God's favour against their rebellion.
#BCV:Psalms 106:24
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:24>Psalms 106:24</verse></h3>



Yea, they despised (m) the pleasant land, they believed not his word:



(m) That is Canaan, which acted as a promise of the heavenly inheritance to come, though it was
only worth a penny in comparison to the value of the inheritance itself.
#BCV:Psalms 106:26
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:26>Psalms 106:26</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 106:26
<h3><verse=psa 106:26>psa 106:26</verse></h3>




(n) That is, he swore. Sometimes also it means to punish.
#BCV:Psalms 106:28
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:28>Psalms 106:28</verse></h3>



They joined themselves also unto (o) Baalpeor, and ate the sacrifices of the (p) dead.



(o) Which was the idol of the Moabites.



(p) Sacrifices offered to the dead idols.
#BCV:Psalms 106:29
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:29>Psalms 106:29</verse></h3>



Thus they (q) provoked [him] to anger with their inventions: and the plague brake in upon them.



(q) Signifying that whatever man invents of himself to serve God by, is detestable and provokes his
anger.
#BCV:Psalms 106:30
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:30>Psalms 106:30</verse></h3>



Then stood up (r) Phinehas, and executed judgment: and [so] the plague was stayed.



(r) When all others neglected God's glory, he in his zeal killed the adulterers and prevented God's
wrath.
#BCV:Psalms 106:31
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:31>Psalms 106:31</verse></h3>



And that was (s) counted unto him for righteousness unto all generations for evermore.



(s) This act declared his living faith, and for his faith's sake was accepted.
#BCV:Psalms 106:32
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:32>Psalms 106:32</verse></h3>



They angered [him] also at the waters of strife, so that it went ill with (t) Moses for their sakes:



(t) If so notable a prophet of God does not escape punishment, though others provoked him to sin,
how much more will they be subject to God's judgment, who cause God's children to sin?
#BCV:Psalms 106:37
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:37>Psalms 106:37</verse></h3>



Yea, they sacrificed their (u) sons and their daughters unto devils,

<page=1419>(u) He shows how monstrous a thing idolatry is, which can win us to things abhorring to nature,
while God's word cannot obtain small things.
#BCV:Psalms 106:39
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:39>Psalms 106:39</verse></h3>



Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went (x) a whoring with their own inventions.



(x) Then true chastity is to cleave wholly and only to God.
#BCV:Psalms 106:43
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:43>Psalms 106:43</verse></h3>



Many (y) times did he deliver them; but they provoked [him] with their counsel, and were brought
low for their iniquity.



(y) The prophet shows that neither by menace nor promise we can come to God, unless we are
altogether newly reformed, and his mercy covers and hides our malice.
#BCV:Psalms 106:45
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:45>Psalms 106:45</verse></h3>



And he remembered for them his covenant, and (z) repented according to the multitude of his
mercies.



(z) Not that God is changeable in himself, but that then he seems to us to repent when he alters his
punishment, and forgives us.
#BCV:Psalms 106:47
<h3><verse=Psalms 106:47>Psalms 106:47</verse></h3>



Save us, O LORD our God, and (a) gather us from among the heathen, to give thanks unto thy holy
name, [and] to triumph in thy praise.



(a) Gather your Church which is dispersed, and give us constancy under the cross, that with one
consent we may all praise you.

<h2>Psalms 107</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 107:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:1>Psalms 107:1</verse></h3>

<page=1420>O give thanks unto (a) the LORD, for [he is] good: for his mercy [endureth] for ever.



(a) This notable sentence was in the beginning used as the foot or tenor of the song, which was
often repeated.
#BCV:Psalms 107:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:2>Psalms 107:2</verse></h3>



Let the (b) redeemed of the LORD say [so], whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy;



(b) As was true in the Jews, so there is not one of God's elect who does not feel his help in their
necessity.
#BCV:Psalms 107:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:5>Psalms 107:5</verse></h3>




(c) Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them.



(c) He shows that there is no affliction so grievous out of which God will not deliver us, and also
exhorts them who are delivered to be mindful of so great a benefit.
#BCV:Psalms 107:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:11>Psalms 107:11</verse></h3>



Because they (d) rebelled against the words of God, and contemned the counsel of the most High:



(d) Then the true way to obey God is to follow his express commandment: also by this all are
exhorted to descend into themselves as none are punished but for their sins.
#BCV:Psalms 107:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:13>Psalms 107:13</verse></h3>



Then they (e) cried unto the LORD in their trouble, [and] he saved them out of their distresses.



(e) He shows that the reason God punishes us extremely is because we can be brought to him by no
other means.
#BCV:Psalms 107:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:16>Psalms 107:16</verse></h3>



For he hath broken the (f) gates of brass, and cut the bars of iron in sunder.



(f) When there seems to man's judgment no recovery, but all things are brought to despair, then God
chiefly shows his mighty power.
#BCV:Psalms 107:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:17>Psalms 107:17</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 107:17
<h3><verse=psa 107:17>psa 107:17</verse></h3>




(g) They who have no fear of God, by his sharp rods are brought to call on him, and so find mercy.
#BCV:Psalms 107:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:20>Psalms 107:20</verse></h3>




(h) He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered [them] from their (i) destructions.



(h) By healing them he declares his good will toward them.



(i) Meaning their diseases, which had almost brought them to the grave and corruption.
#BCV:Psalms 107:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:22>Psalms 107:22</verse></h3>



And let them sacrifice the sacrifices of (k) thanksgiving, and declare his works with rejoicing.



(k) Praise and confession of God's benefits are the true sacrifices of the godly.
#BCV:Psalms 107:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:23>Psalms 107:23</verse></h3>



They that go down to the (l) sea in ships, that do business in great waters;



(l) He shows by the sea what care God has over man, for when he delivers them from the great
danger of the sea, he delivers them as it were from a thousand deaths.
#BCV:Psalms 107:26
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:26>Psalms 107:26</verse></h3>



They mount up to the heaven, they go down again to the depths: their soul is (m) melted because of
trouble.



(m) Their fear and danger is so great.
#BCV:Psalms 107:27
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:27>Psalms 107:27</verse></h3>



They reel to and fro, and stagger like a drunken man, and (n) are at their wits' end.



(n) When their art and means fail them, they are compelled to confess that only God's providence
preserves them.
#BCV:Psalms 107:30
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:30>Psalms 107:30</verse></h3>



Then are they glad because they be (o) quiet; so he bringeth them unto their desired haven.

<page=1422>(o) Though before every drop seemed to fight one against the other, yet at his command they are as
still as if they were frozen.
#BCV:Psalms 107:32
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:32>Psalms 107:32</verse></h3>



Let them exalt him also in the (p) congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the
elders.



(p) This great benefit should not only be considered particularly, but magnified in all places and
assemblies.
#BCV:Psalms 107:35
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:35>Psalms 107:35</verse></h3>



He (q) turneth the wilderness into a standing water, and dry ground into watersprings.



(q) For the love that he bears to his Church, he changes the order of nature for their convenience.
#BCV:Psalms 107:37
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:37>Psalms 107:37</verse></h3>



And sow the fields, and plant vineyards, which may yield fruits of (r) increase.



(r) Continual increase and yearly.
#BCV:Psalms 107:39
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:39>Psalms 107:39</verse></h3>




(s) Again, they are minished and brought low through oppression, affliction, and sorrow.



(s) As God by his providence exalts man, so he also humbles them by afflictions to know themselves.
#BCV:Psalms 107:40
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:40>Psalms 107:40</verse></h3>



He poureth (t) contempt upon princes, and causeth them to wander in the wilderness, [where there
is] no way.



(t) For their wickedness and tyranny he causes the people and subjects to contemn them.
#BCV:Psalms 107:42
<h3><verse=Psalms 107:42>Psalms 107:42</verse></h3>



The (u) righteous shall see [it], and rejoice: and all iniquity shall stop her mouth.



(u) They whose faith is lightened by God's spirit, will rejoice to see God's judgments against the
wicked and ungodly.

<h2>Psalms 108</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 108:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 108:1>Psalms 108:1</verse></h3>

<page=1423>"A Song [or] Psalm of David." O God, my heart is (a) fixed; I will sing and give praise, even with my
glory.



(a) This earnest affection declares that he is free from hypocrisy and that sluggishness does not stop
him.
#BCV:Psalms 108:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 108:3>Psalms 108:3</verse></h3>



I will praise thee, O LORD, among the (b) people: and I will sing praises unto thee among the
nations.



(b) He prophecies of the calling of the Gentiles: for unless they were called, they could not hear the
goodness of God.
#BCV:Psalms 108:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 108:5>Psalms 108:5</verse></h3>




(c) Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: and thy glory above all the earth;



(c) Let all the world see your judgments in that you are God over all, and so confess that you are
glorious.
#BCV:Psalms 108:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 108:6>Psalms 108:6</verse></h3>



That thy beloved may be delivered: (d) save [with] thy right hand, and answer me.



(d) When God by his benefits makes us partakers of his mercies, he admonishes us to be earnest in
prayer, to desire him to continue and finish his graces.
#BCV:Psalms 108:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 108:7>Psalms 108:7</verse></h3>



God hath spoken in his (e) holiness; I will rejoice, I will divide Shechem, and mete out the valley of
Succoth.



(e) As he has spoken to Samuel concerning me, so will he show himself constant and holy in his
promise, so that these nations following will be subject to me.
#BCV:Psalms 108:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 108:11>Psalms 108:11</verse></h3>




(f) [Wilt] not [thou], O God, [who] hast cast us off ? and wilt not thou, O God, go forth with our
hosts?

<page=1424>(f) From the sixth verse of this psalm to the last, read also (Psa 60:5).

<h2>Psalms 109</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 109:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:1>Psalms 109:1</verse></h3>

<page=1425>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David." Hold not thy peace, O God of my (a) praise;



(a) Though all the world condemn me, yet you will approve my innocence and that is sufficient
praise to me.
#BCV:Psalms 109:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:4>Psalms 109:4</verse></h3>



For my love they are my adversaries: (b) but I [give myself unto] prayer.



(b) To declare that I had no other refuge, but you, in whom my conscience was at rest.
#BCV:Psalms 109:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:6>Psalms 109:6</verse></h3>




(c) Set thou a wicked man over him: and let Satan stand at his right hand.



(c) Whether it was Doeg or Saul, or some familiar friend that had betrayed him, he prays not for
private affection, but moved by God's Spirit, that God would take vengeance on him.
#BCV:Psalms 109:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:7>Psalms 109:7</verse></h3>



When he shall be judged, let him be condemned: and let his (d) prayer become sin.



(d) As to the elect all things turn to their profit, so to the reprobate, even those things that are good,
turn to their damnation.
#BCV:Psalms 109:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:8>Psalms 109:8</verse></h3>



Let his days be few; [and] let another take his (e) office.



(e) This was chiefly accomplished in Judas, (<bcv=Acts 1:20>Act 1:20</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 109:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:11>Psalms 109:11</verse></h3>



Let (f) the extortioner catch all that he hath; and let the strangers spoil his labour.



(f) He declares that the curse of God lies on the extortioners, who thinking to enrich their children
by their unlawfully gotten goods, are by God's just judgment deprived of all.
#BCV:Psalms 109:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:14>Psalms 109:14</verse></h3>


<page=1426>(g) Let the iniquity of his fathers be remembered with the LORD; and let not the sin of his mother
be blotted out.



(g) Thus the Lord punishes to the third and fourth generation the wickedness of the parents in their
wicked children.
#BCV:Psalms 109:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:16>Psalms 109:16</verse></h3>



Because that (h) he remembered not to shew mercy, but persecuted the poor and needy man, that he
might even slay the broken in heart.



(h) He shows that God plagues them in a strange way who show themselves cruel toward others.
#BCV:Psalms 109:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:17>Psalms 109:17</verse></h3>



As he loved cursing, (i) so let it come unto him: as he delighted not in blessing, so let it be far from
him.



(i) Thus the Lord gives to every man the thing in which he delights so that the reprobate cannot
accuse God of wrong, when they are given up to their lusts and reprobate minds.
#BCV:Psalms 109:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:20>Psalms 109:20</verse></h3>



[Let] this [be] the reward of mine adversaries (k) from the LORD, and of them that speak evil
against my soul.



(k) For being destitute of man's help, he fully trusted in the Lord, that he would deliver him.
#BCV:Psalms 109:21
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:21>Psalms 109:21</verse></h3>



But do thou for me, O GOD the Lord, for thy (l) name's sake: because thy mercy [is] good, deliver
thou me.



(l) As you are named merciful, gracious and long suffering, so show yourself in effect.
#BCV:Psalms 109:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:23>Psalms 109:23</verse></h3>



I am gone like the shadow when it declineth: I am tossed up and down as the (m) locust.



(m) Meaning that he has no stay or assurance in this world.
#BCV:Psalms 109:24
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:24>Psalms 109:24</verse></h3>



My knees are weak through fasting; and my flesh (n) faileth of fatness.

<page=1427>(n) For hunger that came from sorrow, he was lean and his natural moisture failed him.
#BCV:Psalms 109:26
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:26>Psalms 109:26</verse></h3>



Help me, O LORD my God: O (o) save me according to thy mercy:



(o) The more grievously Satan assailed him, the more earnest and instant was he in prayer.
#BCV:Psalms 109:28
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:28>Psalms 109:28</verse></h3>



Let them (p) curse, but bless thou: when they arise, let them be ashamed; but let thy servant rejoice.



(p) They will gain nothing by cursing me.
#BCV:Psalms 109:30
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:30>Psalms 109:30</verse></h3>



I will greatly praise the LORD with my (q) mouth; yea, I will praise him among the multitude.



(q) Not only in confessing it secretly in myself but also in declaring it before all the congregation.
#BCV:Psalms 109:31
<h3><verse=Psalms 109:31>Psalms 109:31</verse></h3>



For he shall stand at the right hand of the poor, to save [him] from those that (r) condemn his soul.



(r) By this he shows that he had nothing to do with them who were of little power, but with the
judges and princes of the world.

<h2>Psalms 110</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 110:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 110:1>Psalms 110:1</verse></h3>

<page=1428>"A Psalm of David." The (a) LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make
thine enemies thy footstool.



(a) Jesus Christ in (<bcv=Mat 22:44>Mat 22:44</bcv>) gives the interpretation of this, and shows that this cannot properly be
applied to David but to himself.
#BCV:Psalms 110:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 110:2>Psalms 110:2</verse></h3>



The LORD shall send the rod of thy strength out of (b) Zion: rule thou in the midst of thine
enemies.



(b) And then it will stretch through all the world: and this power chiefly stands in the preaching of
his word.
#BCV:Psalms 110:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 110:3>Psalms 110:3</verse></h3>



Thy people [shall be] willing in the day of (c) thy power, in the beauties of holiness from the womb
of the morning: thou hast the dew of thy youth.



(c) By the word your people will be assembled into your Church...increase will be...anointed
wonderful... drops of the...
#BCV:Psalms 110:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 110:4>Psalms 110:4</verse></h3>



The LORD hath sworn, and will not repent, Thou [art] a priest for ever after the order of (d)
Melchizedek.



(d) As Melchizedek the figure of Christ was both a King and Priest, so this effect cannot be
accomplished on any king save only Christ.
#BCV:Psalms 110:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 110:6>Psalms 110:6</verse></h3>



He shall judge among the heathen, he shall fill [the places] with the dead bodies; he shall wound the



(e) heads over many countries.



(e) No power will be able to resist him.
#BCV:Psalms 110:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 110:7>Psalms 110:7</verse></h3>



He shall (f) drink of the brook in the way: therefore shall he lift up the head.

<page=1429>(f) Under this comparison of a captain that is so eager to destroy his enemies that he will not scarce
drink by the way, he shows how God will destroy his enemies.

<h2>Psalms 111</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 111:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 111:1>Psalms 111:1</verse></h3>


<page=1430>(a) Praise ye the LORD. I will praise the LORD with [my] whole heart, in the assembly of the
upright, and [in] the congregation.



(a) The prophet declares that he will praise God both privately and openly, and that from the heart,
as he who consecrates himself wholly and only to God.
#BCV:Psalms 111:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 111:2>Psalms 111:2</verse></h3>



The works of the LORD [are] (b) great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.



(b) He shows that God's works are a sufficient reason for us to praise him, but chiefly his benefits
toward his Church.
#BCV:Psalms 111:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 111:5>Psalms 111:5</verse></h3>



He hath given (c) meat unto them that fear him: he will ever be mindful of his covenant.



(c) God has given to his people all that was necessary for them and will do so even for his covenant's
sake, and in this sense the Hebrew word is taken in (<bcv=Pro 30:8>Pro 30:8</bcv>,<bcv=Pro 31:15> Pro 31:15</bcv>).

#BCV:Psalms 111:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 111:7>Psalms 111:7</verse></h3>



The (d) works of his hands [are] verity and judgment; all his commandments [are] sure.



(d) As God proposed to take care of his Church so in effect does he declare himself just and true in
the government of the same.
#BCV:Psalms 111:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 111:10>Psalms 111:10</verse></h3>




(e) The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that (f)
do [his commandments]: his praise endureth for ever.



(e) They only are wise who fear God and none have understanding but they who obey the word.



(f) That is, his commandment as in (<bcv=Psa 111:7>Psa 111:7</bcv>).

<h2>Psalms 112</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 112:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 112:1>Psalms 112:1</verse></h3>

<page=1431>Praise ye the LORD. Blessed [is] the man [that] (a) feareth the LORD, [that] delighteth greatly in his
commandments.



(a) He means that reverent fear which is in the children of God, which causes them to delight only
in the word of God.
#BCV:Psalms 112:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 112:3>Psalms 112:3</verse></h3>




(b) Wealth and riches [shall be] in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever.



(b) The godly will have abundance and contentment, because their heart is satisfied in God alone.
#BCV:Psalms 112:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 112:4>Psalms 112:4</verse></h3>



Unto the (c) upright there ariseth light in the darkness: [he is] gracious, and full of compassion, and
righteous.



(c) The faithful in all their adversities know that all will go well with them for God will be merciful
and just.
#BCV:Psalms 112:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 112:5>Psalms 112:5</verse></h3>



A good man sheweth favour, and (d) lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion.



(d) He shows what the fruit of mercy is, to lend freely and not for gain, and so to measure his
doings that he may be able to help where need requires and not to bestow all on himself.
#BCV:Psalms 112:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 112:9>Psalms 112:9</verse></h3>



He hath (e) dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth for ever; his (f) horn
shall be exalted with honour.



(e) The godly are not stingy, but distribute liberally, as the need of the poor requires and as his
power is able.



(f) His power and prosperous estate.
#BCV:Psalms 112:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 112:10>Psalms 112:10</verse></h3>



The wicked shall see [it], and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and (g) melt away: the desire
of the wicked shall perish.



(g) The blessings of God on his children will cause the wicked to die for envy.

<h2>Psalms 113</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 113:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 113:1>Psalms 113:1</verse></h3>

<page=1432>Praise ye the LORD. (a) Praise, O ye servants of the LORD, praise the name of the LORD.



(a) By this often repetition he stirs up our cold dullness to praise God, seeing his works are so
wonderful, and that we are created for the same cause.
#BCV:Psalms 113:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 113:4>Psalms 113:4</verse></h3>



The LORD [is] high above all (b) nations, [and] his glory above the heavens.



(b) If God's glory shines through all the world, and therefore of all ought to be praised, what great
condemnation were it to his people, among whom chiefly it shines, if they should not earnestly extol
his Name?
#BCV:Psalms 113:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 113:7>Psalms 113:7</verse></h3>



He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, [and] lifteth the (c) needy out of the dunghill;



(c) By preferring the poor to high honour and giving the barren children, he shows that God works
not only in his Church by ordinary means, but also by miracles.

<h2>Psalms 114</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 114:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 114:1>Psalms 114:1</verse></h3>

<page=1433>When Israel went out of Egypt, the house of Jacob from a people of (a) strange language;



(a) Or, barbarous.
#BCV:Psalms 114:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 114:2>Psalms 114:2</verse></h3>



Judah was his (b) sanctuary, [and] Israel his dominion.



(b) The whole people were witnesses to his holy majesty in adopting them, and of his mighty power
in delivering them.
#BCV:Psalms 114:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 114:4>Psalms 114:4</verse></h3>



The (c) mountains skipped like rams, [and] the little hills like lambs.



(c) Seeing that these dead creatures felt God's power and after a sort saw it, much more his people
ought to consider it, and glorify him for the same.
#BCV:Psalms 114:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 114:7>Psalms 114:7</verse></h3>



Tremble, thou (d) earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob;



(d) Ought then his people to be insensible when they see his power and majesty?
#BCV:Psalms 114:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 114:8>Psalms 114:8</verse></h3>



Which (e) turned the rock [into] a standing water, the flint into a fountain of waters.



(e) That is, miraculously caused water to come out of the rock in great abundance, (<bcv=Exo 17:6>Exo 17:6</bcv>).

<h2>Psalms 115</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 115:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 115:1>Psalms 115:1</verse></h3>

<page=1434>Not (a) unto us, O LORD, not unto us, but unto thy name give glory, for thy mercy, [and] for thy
truth's sake.



(a) Because God promised to deliver them, not for their sakes, but for his Name, (<bcv=Isa 48:11>Isa 48:11</bcv>),
therefore they ground their prayer on this promise.
#BCV:Psalms 115:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 115:2>Psalms 115:2</verse></h3>



Wherefore should the heathen say, (b) Where [is] now their God?



(b) When the wicked see that God does not always accomplish his promise as they imagined, they
think there is no God.
#BCV:Psalms 115:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 115:3>Psalms 115:3</verse></h3>



But our God [is] in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath (c) pleased.



(c) No impediments can slow his work, but he uses even the impediments to serve his will.
#BCV:Psalms 115:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 115:4>Psalms 115:4</verse></h3>



Their idols [are] (d) silver and gold, the work of men's hands.



(d) Seeing that neither the matter nor the form can commend their idols it follows that there is no
reason that they should be esteemed.
#BCV:Psalms 115:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 115:7>Psalms 115:7</verse></h3>



They have (e) hands, but they handle not: feet have they, but they walk not: neither speak they
through their throat.



(e) He shows what great vanity it is to ask help from them who not only have no help in them, but
lack sense and reason.
#BCV:Psalms 115:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 115:8>Psalms 115:8</verse></h3>



They that make them are (f) like unto them; [so is] every one that trusteth in them.



(f) As much without sense as blocks and stones.
#BCV:Psalms 115:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 115:10>Psalms 115:10</verse></h3>


<page=1435>(g) O house of Aaron, trust in the LORD: he [is] their help and their shield.



(g) For they were appointed by God as instructors and teachers of faith and religion for others to
follow.
#BCV:Psalms 115:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 115:12>Psalms 115:12</verse></h3>



The LORD hath been mindful of us: he will bless [us]; he (h) will bless the house of Israel; he will
bless the house of Aaron.



(h) That is, he will continue his graces toward his people.
#BCV:Psalms 115:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 115:15>Psalms 115:15</verse></h3>



Ye [are] blessed of the LORD which (i) made heaven and earth.



(i) And therefore still governs and continues all things in it.
#BCV:Psalms 115:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 115:16>Psalms 115:16</verse></h3>



The (k) heaven, [even] the heavens, [are] the LORD'S: but the earth hath he given to the children of
men.



(k) And they declare enough his sufficiency so that the world serves him nothing, but to show his
fatherly care toward men.
#BCV:Psalms 115:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 115:17>Psalms 115:17</verse></h3>



The dead praise not the LORD, neither any that (l) go down into silence.



(l) Though the dead set forth God's glory, yet he means here, that they praise him not in his Church
and congregation.

<h2>Psalms 116</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 116:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 116:1>Psalms 116:1</verse></h3>



I (a) love the LORD, because he hath heard my voice [and] my supplications.



(a) He grants that no pleasure is so great as to feel God's help in our need, neither that anything
more stirs up our love toward him.
#BCV:Psalms 116:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 116:2>Psalms 116:2</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 116:2
<h3><verse=psa 116:2>psa 116:2</verse></h3>




(b) That is in convenient time to seek help, which was when he was in distress.
#BCV:Psalms 116:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 116:5>Psalms 116:5</verse></h3>



Gracious [is] the LORD, and righteous; yea, our God [is] (c) merciful.



(c) He shows forth the fruit of his love in calling on him, confessing him to be just and merciful and
to help them who are destitute of aid and counsel.
#BCV:Psalms 116:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 116:7>Psalms 116:7</verse></h3>



Return unto thy rest, O (d) my soul; for the LORD hath dealt bountifully with thee.



(d) Which was disturbed before, now rest on the Lord, for he has been beneficial towards you.
#BCV:Psalms 116:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 116:9>Psalms 116:9</verse></h3>



I will (e) walk before the LORD in the land of the living.



(e) The Lord will preserve me and save my life.
#BCV:Psalms 116:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 116:10>Psalms 116:10</verse></h3>




(f) I believed, therefore have I spoken: I was greatly afflicted:



(f) I felt all these things, and therefore was moved by faith to confess them, (<bcv=2Co 4:13>Co2 4:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 116:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 116:11>Psalms 116:11</verse></h3>



I said in my (g) haste, All men [are] liars.



(g) In my great distress I thought God would not regard man, who is but lies and vanity, yet I
overcame this temptation and felt the contrary.
#BCV:Psalms 116:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 116:13>Psalms 116:13</verse></h3>



I will (h) take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the LORD.



(h) In the Law they used to make a banquet when they gave solemn thanks to God, and to take the
cup and drink in sign of thanksgiving.
#BCV:Psalms 116:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 116:15>Psalms 116:15</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 116:15
<h3><verse=psa 116:15>psa 116:15</verse></h3>




(i) I perceive that God has a care over his, so that he both disposes their death, and takes an account.
#BCV:Psalms 116:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 116:18>Psalms 116:18</verse></h3>



I will pay my (k) vows unto the LORD now in the presence of all his people,



(k) I will thank him for his benefits, for that is a just payment, to confess that we owe all to God.

<h2>Psalms 117</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 117:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 117:2>Psalms 117:2</verse></h3>

<page=1438>For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the (a) truth of the LORD [endureth] for ever.
Praise ye the LORD.



(a) That is, the most certain and continual testimony of his fatherly graces.

<h2>Psalms 118</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 118:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 118:1>Psalms 118:1</verse></h3>

<page=1439>O (a) give thanks unto the LORD; for [he is] good: because his mercy [endureth] for ever.



(a) Because God by creating David king, showed his mercy toward his afflicted Church, the prophet
not only thanks God himself, but exhorts all the people to do the same.
#BCV:Psalms 118:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 118:5>Psalms 118:5</verse></h3>



I called upon the LORD in (b) distress: the LORD answered me, [and set me] in a large place.



(b) We are here taught that the more that troubles oppress us, the more ought we to be instant in

<h1>prayer.</h1>

#BCV:Psalms 118:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 118:6>Psalms 118:6</verse></h3>



The LORD [is] on my side; I will not fear: what can (c) man do unto me?



(c) Being exalted to this estate, he assured himself to have man ever to be his enemy. Yet he did not
doubt that God would maintain him, because he had placed him.
#BCV:Psalms 118:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 118:8>Psalms 118:8</verse></h3>



[It is] better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence (d) in man.



(d) He shows that he had trusted in vain if he had put his confidence in man, to have been preferred
to the kingdom and therefore he put his trust in God and obtained.
#BCV:Psalms 118:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 118:13>Psalms 118:13</verse></h3>




(e) Thou hast thrust sore at me that I might fall: but the LORD helped me.



(e) He notes Saul his chief enemy.
#BCV:Psalms 118:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 118:14>Psalms 118:14</verse></h3>



The LORD [is] my strength and (f) song, and is become my salvation.



(f) In that he was delivered, it came not from himself, not from the power of man, but only from
God's favour, therefore he will praise him.
#BCV:Psalms 118:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 118:15>Psalms 118:15</verse></h3>

<page=1440>The (g) voice of rejoicing and salvation [is] in the tabernacles of the righteous: the right hand of the
LORD doeth valiantly.



(g) He promises both to render graces himself, and to cause others to do the same, because in his
person the Church was restored.
#BCV:Psalms 118:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 118:17>Psalms 118:17</verse></h3>



I shall not die, but live, and (h) declare the works of the LORD.



(h) So that all, that are both far and near, may see his mighty power.
#BCV:Psalms 118:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 118:19>Psalms 118:19</verse></h3>



Open to me the (i) gates of righteousness: I will go into them, [and] I will praise the LORD:



(i) He wills the doors of the tabernacle to be opened, that he may declare his thankful mind.
#BCV:Psalms 118:22
<h3><verse=Psalms 118:22>Psalms 118:22</verse></h3>



The stone [which] the builders (k) refused is become the head [stone] of the corner.



(k) Though Saul and the chief powers refused me to be king, yet God has preferred me above them
all.
#BCV:Psalms 118:24
<h3><verse=Psalms 118:24>Psalms 118:24</verse></h3>



This [is] the (l) day [which] the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.



(l) In which God has shown chiefly his mercy, by appointing me king and delivering his Church.
#BCV:Psalms 118:25
<h3><verse=Psalms 118:25>Psalms 118:25</verse></h3>



Save now, I beseech thee, (m) O LORD: O LORD, I beseech thee, send now prosperity.



(m) The people pray for the prosperity of David's kingdom, who was the figure of Christ.
#BCV:Psalms 118:26
<h3><verse=Psalms 118:26>Psalms 118:26</verse></h3>



Blessed [be] he that cometh in the name of the LORD: (n) we have blessed you out of the house of
the LORD.



(n) Who are the priests, and have the charge of it, as in (<bcv=Num 6:23>Num 6:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 118:27
<h3><verse=Psalms 118:27>Psalms 118:27</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 118:27
<h3><verse=psa 118:27>psa 118:27</verse></h3>



horns of the altar.



(o) Because he has restored us from darkness to light, we will offer sacrifices and praises to him.

<h2>Psalms 119</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 119:53
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:53>Psalms 119:53</verse></h3>


<page=1442>(d) Horror hath taken hold upon me because of the wicked that forsake thy law.



(d) That is, a vehement zeal to your glory and indignation against the wicked.
#BCV:Psalms 119:54
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:54>Psalms 119:54</verse></h3>



Thy statutes have been my songs in the house of my (e) pilgrimage.



(e) In the course of this life and sorrowful exit.
#BCV:Psalms 119:55
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:55>Psalms 119:55</verse></h3>



I have remembered thy name, O LORD, in the (f) night, and have kept thy law.



(f) Even when others sleep.
#BCV:Psalms 119:56
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:56>Psalms 119:56</verse></h3>




(g) This I had, because I kept thy precepts.



(g) That is, all these benefits.
#BCV:Psalms 119:57
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:57>Psalms 119:57</verse></h3>



CHETH. [Thou art] my (a) portion, O LORD: I have said that I would keep thy words.



(a) I am persuaded that to keep your law is a heritage and great gain for me.
#BCV:Psalms 119:59
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:59>Psalms 119:59</verse></h3>



I thought on my (b) ways, and turned my feet unto thy testimonies.



(b) He shows that no one can embrace the word of God, unless he considers his own imperfections
and ways.
#BCV:Psalms 119:61
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:61>Psalms 119:61</verse></h3>



The bands of the wicked have (c) robbed me: [but] I have not forgotten thy law.



(c) They have gone about to draw me into their company.
#BCV:Psalms 119:63
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:63>Psalms 119:63</verse></h3>

<page=1443>I [am] a (d) companion of all [them] that fear thee, and of them that keep thy precepts.



(d) Not only in mutual consent, but also with aid and help.
#BCV:Psalms 119:64
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:64>Psalms 119:64</verse></h3>



The earth, O LORD, is full of thy mercy: (e) teach me thy statutes.



(e) For the knowledge of God's word is a singular token of his favour.
#BCV:Psalms 119:65
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:65>Psalms 119:65</verse></h3>



TETH. Thou hast dealt (a) well with thy servant, O LORD, according unto thy word.



(a) Having proved by experience that God was true in his promise, he desires that he would increase
in him knowledge and judgment.
#BCV:Psalms 119:67
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:67>Psalms 119:67</verse></h3>



Before I was (b) afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept thy word.



(b) So Jeremiah says, that before the Lord touched him, he was like a calf untamed so that the use of
God's rod is to call us home to God.
#BCV:Psalms 119:70
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:70>Psalms 119:70</verse></h3>




(c) Their heart is as fat as grease; [but] I delight in thy law.



(c) Their heart is indurate and hardened, puffed up with prosperity and vain estimation of
themselves.
#BCV:Psalms 119:71
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:71>Psalms 119:71</verse></h3>



[It is] (d) good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes.



(d) He confesses that before he was chastened he was rebellious as man by nature is.
#BCV:Psalms 119:73
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:73>Psalms 119:73</verse></h3>



JOD. Thy hands have (a) made me and fashioned me: give me understanding, that I may learn thy
commandments.

<page=1444>(a) Because God does not leave his work that he has begun, he desires a new grace: that is, that he
would continue his mercies.
#BCV:Psalms 119:74
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:74>Psalms 119:74</verse></h3>



They that (b) fear thee will be glad when they see me; because I have hoped in thy word.



(b) When God shows his grace toward any, he testifies to others that he does not fail them who trust
in him.
#BCV:Psalms 119:77
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:77>Psalms 119:77</verse></h3>



Let thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may (c) live: for thy law [is] my delight.



(c) He declares that when he did not feel God's mercies, he was as dead.
#BCV:Psalms 119:79
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:79>Psalms 119:79</verse></h3>



Let those that fear thee (d) turn unto me, and those that have (e) known thy testimonies.



(d) That is, be comforted by my example.



(e) He shows that there can be no true fear of God without the knowledge of his word.
#BCV:Psalms 119:81
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:81>Psalms 119:81</verse></h3>



CAPH. My soul (a) fainteth for thy salvation: [but] I hope in thy word.



(a) Though my strength fails me, yet my soul groans and sighs, resting still in your word.
#BCV:Psalms 119:83
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:83>Psalms 119:83</verse></h3>



For I am become like a (b) bottle in the smoke; [yet] do I not forget thy statutes.



(b) Like a skin bottle or bladder that is parched in the smoke.
#BCV:Psalms 119:84
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:84>Psalms 119:84</verse></h3>



How many [are] the (c) days of thy servant? when wilt thou execute judgment on them that
persecute me?



(c) How long will you afflict your servant.
#BCV:Psalms 119:85
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:85>Psalms 119:85</verse></h3>

<page=1445>The proud have (d) digged pits for me, which [are] not after thy law.



(d) They have not only oppressed me violently but also craftily conspired against me.
#BCV:Psalms 119:86
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:86>Psalms 119:86</verse></h3>



All thy commandments [are] faithful: they persecute me wrongfully; (e) help thou me.



(e) He assures himself that God will deliver his and destroy such as unjustly persecute them.
#BCV:Psalms 119:87
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:87>Psalms 119:87</verse></h3>



They had almost consumed (f) me upon earth; but I forsook not thy precepts.



(f) Finding no help on earth, he lifts up his eyes to heaven.
#BCV:Psalms 119:89
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:89>Psalms 119:89</verse></h3>



LAMED. For ever, O LORD, thy word is settled in (a) heaven.



(a) Because no one should esteem God's word according to the changes of things in this world, he
shows that it abides in heaven, and therefore is immutable.
#BCV:Psalms 119:91
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:91>Psalms 119:91</verse></h3>



They (b) continue this day according to thine ordinances: for all [are] thy servants.



(b) Seeing the earth and all creatures remain in that estate in which you have created them, much
more your truth remains constant and unchangeable.
#BCV:Psalms 119:94
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:94>Psalms 119:94</verse></h3>



I [am] (c) thine, save me; for I have sought thy precepts.



(c) He proves by effect that he is God's child, because he seeks to understand his word.
#BCV:Psalms 119:96
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:96>Psalms 119:96</verse></h3>



I (d) have seen an end of all perfection: [but] thy commandment [is] exceeding broad.



(d) There is nothing so perfect in earth, but it has an end, only God's word lasts forever.
#BCV:Psalms 119:97
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:97>Psalms 119:97</verse></h3>

<page=1446>MEM. O how love I thy law! it [is] my meditation (a) all the day.


(a) He shows that we cannot love God's word unless we exercise ourselves in it and practise it.
#BCV:Psalms 119:99
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:99>Psalms 119:99</verse></h3>



I have more (b) understanding than all my teachers: for thy testimonies [are] my meditation.



(b) Whoever submits himself only to God's word will not only be safe against the practises of his
enemies, but also learn more wisdom than they who profess it, and are men of experience.
#BCV:Psalms 119:102
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:102>Psalms 119:102</verse></h3>



I have not departed from thy judgments: for (c) thou hast taught me.



(c) So then of ourselves we can do nothing, but when God inwardly instructs us with his spirit, we
feel his graces sweeter than honey.
#BCV:Psalms 119:105
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:105>Psalms 119:105</verse></h3>



NUN. Thy word [is] a (a) lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.



(a) Of ourselves we are but darkness and cannot see unless we are lightened with God's Word.
#BCV:Psalms 119:106
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:106>Psalms 119:106</verse></h3>



I have (b) sworn, and I will perform [it], that I will keep thy righteous judgments.



(b) So all the faithful ought to bind themselves to God by a solemn oath and promises to stir up
their zeal to embrace God's word.
#BCV:Psalms 119:108
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:108>Psalms 119:108</verse></h3>



Accept, I beseech thee, the (c) freewill offerings of my mouth, O LORD, and teach me thy
judgments.



(c) That is, my prayer and thanksgiving which Hosea calls the calves of the lips, (<bcv=Hos 14:2>Hos 14:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 119:109
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:109>Psalms 119:109</verse></h3>



My (d) soul [is] continually in my hand: yet do I not forget thy law.



(d) That is, I am in continual danger of my life.
#BCV:Psalms 119:111
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:111>Psalms 119:111</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 119:111
<h3><verse=psa 119:111>psa 119:111</verse></h3>




(e) I esteemed no worldly things, but made your word my inheritance.
#BCV:Psalms 119:113
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:113>Psalms 119:113</verse></h3>



SAMECH. I hate (a) [vain] thoughts: but thy law do I love.



(a) Whoever will embrace God's word correctly must abhor all fantasies and imaginations both of
himself and others.
#BCV:Psalms 119:115
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:115>Psalms 119:115</verse></h3>




(b) Depart from me, ye evildoers: for I will keep the commandments of my God.



(b) And hinder me not to keep the law of the Lord.
#BCV:Psalms 119:117
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:117>Psalms 119:117</verse></h3>




(c) Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe: and I will have respect unto thy statutes continually.



(c) He desires God's continual assistance, lest he should faint in this race, which he had begun.
#BCV:Psalms 119:118
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:118>Psalms 119:118</verse></h3>



Thou hast trodden down all them that err from thy statutes: for their (d) deceit [is] falsehood.



(d) The crafty practises of them who contemn your law will be brought to nothing.
#BCV:Psalms 119:119
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:119>Psalms 119:119</verse></h3>



Thou puttest away all the wicked of the earth [like] (e) dross: therefore I love thy testimonies.



(e) Which infected your people, as dross does metal.
#BCV:Psalms 119:120
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:120>Psalms 119:120</verse></h3>



My flesh (f) trembleth for fear of thee; and I am afraid of thy judgments.



(f) Your judgments not only teach me obedience, but cause me to fear, considering my own
weakness which fear causes repentance.
#BCV:Psalms 119:122
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:122>Psalms 119:122</verse></h3>


<page=1448>(a) Be surety for thy servant for good: let not the proud oppress me.



(a) Put yourself between me and my enemies, as if you were my pledge.
#BCV:Psalms 119:124
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:124>Psalms 119:124</verse></h3>



Deal with thy (b) servant according unto thy mercy, and teach me thy statutes.



(b) He does not boast that he is God's servant, but by this reminds God that as he made him his by
his grace, so he would continue his favour toward him.
#BCV:Psalms 119:126
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:126>Psalms 119:126</verse></h3>



[It is] (c) time for [thee], LORD, to work: [for] they have made void thy law.



(c) The prophet shows that when the wicked have brought all things to confusion, and God's word
to utter contempt, then it is God's time to help and send remedy.
#BCV:Psalms 119:128
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:128>Psalms 119:128</verse></h3>



Therefore I esteem all [thy] precepts [concerning] all [things to be] right; [and] I hate every false (d)
way.



(d) That is, whatever dissents from the purity of your word.
#BCV:Psalms 119:129
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:129>Psalms 119:129</verse></h3>



PE. Thy testimonies [are] (a) wonderful: therefore doth my soul keep them.



(a) Containing high and secret mysteries, so that I am moved with admiration and reverence.
#BCV:Psalms 119:130
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:130>Psalms 119:130</verse></h3>



The entrance of thy (b) words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.



(b) The simple idiots that submit themselves to God have their eyes opened and their minds
illuminated, as soon as they begin to read God's word.
#BCV:Psalms 119:131
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:131>Psalms 119:131</verse></h3>



I opened my mouth, and (c) panted: for I longed for thy commandments.



(c) My zeal toward your word was so great.
#BCV:Psalms 119:136
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:136>Psalms 119:136</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 119:136
<h3><verse=psa 119:136>psa 119:136</verse></h3>




(d) He shows what should be the zeal of God's children when they see his word contemned.
#BCV:Psalms 119:138
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:138>Psalms 119:138</verse></h3>



Thy testimonies [that] thou hast commanded [are] (a) righteous and very faithful.



(a) We cannot confess God to be righteous, unless we live uprightly and truly as he has commanded.
#BCV:Psalms 119:141
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:141>Psalms 119:141</verse></h3>



I [am] (c) small and despised: [yet] do not I forget thy precepts.



(c) This is the true trial to praise God in adversity.
#BCV:Psalms 119:144
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:144>Psalms 119:144</verse></h3>



The righteousness of thy testimonies [is] everlasting: give me understanding, and I shall (d) live.



(d) So that the life of man without the knowledge of God is death.
#BCV:Psalms 119:145
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:145>Psalms 119:145</verse></h3>



KOPH. I (a) cried with [my] whole heart; hear me, O LORD: I will keep thy statutes.



(a) He shows that all his affection and whole heart were bent toward God to have help in his dangers.
#BCV:Psalms 119:148
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:148>Psalms 119:148</verse></h3>



Mine eyes (b) prevent the [night] watches, that I might meditate in thy word.



(b) He was more earnest in the study of God's word, than they who kept the watch were in their
charge.
#BCV:Psalms 119:150
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:150>Psalms 119:150</verse></h3>



They draw nigh that follow after (c) mischief: they are far from thy law.



(c) He shows the nature of the wicked to be to persecute against their conscience.
#BCV:Psalms 119:152
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:152>Psalms 119:152</verse></h3>


<page=1450>(d) Concerning thy testimonies, I have known of old that thou hast founded them for ever.

(d) His faith is grounded on God's word, that he would always be at hand when his children are
oppressed.
#BCV:Psalms 119:154
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:154>Psalms 119:154</verse></h3>



Plead my cause, and deliver me: quicken me according to thy (a) word.



(a) For without God's promise there is no hope of deliverance.
#BCV:Psalms 119:156
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:156>Psalms 119:156</verse></h3>



Great [are] thy tender mercies, O LORD: quicken me according to thy (b) judgments.



(b) According to your promise made in the law, which because the wicked lack they have no hope of
salvation.
#BCV:Psalms 119:158
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:158>Psalms 119:158</verse></h3>



I beheld the transgressors, and was (c) grieved; because they kept not thy word.



(c) My zeal consumed me when I saw their malice and contempt for your glory.
#BCV:Psalms 119:159
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:159>Psalms 119:159</verse></h3>



Consider how I (d) love thy precepts: quicken me, O LORD, according to thy lovingkindness.



(d) It is a sure sign of our adoption, when we love the Law of God.
#BCV:Psalms 119:160
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:160>Psalms 119:160</verse></h3>



Thy word [is] true [from] the (e) beginning: and every one of thy righteous judgments [endureth] for
ever.



(e) Since you first promised it, even to the end all your sayings are true.
#BCV:Psalms 119:161
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:161>Psalms 119:161</verse></h3>



SCHIN. Princes have (a) persecuted me without a cause: but my heart standeth in awe of thy word.



(a) The threatenings and persecutions of princes could not cause me to cease to confess you whom
I fear more than men.
#BCV:Psalms 119:164
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:164>Psalms 119:164</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 119:164
<h3><verse=psa 119:164>psa 119:164</verse></h3>




(b) That is, often and various times.
#BCV:Psalms 119:165
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:165>Psalms 119:165</verse></h3>



Great peace have they which (c) love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.



(c) For their conscience assures them that they please you, whereas they who do not love you have
the contrary.
#BCV:Psalms 119:166
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:166>Psalms 119:166</verse></h3>



LORD, I have (d) hoped for thy salvation, and done thy commandments.



(d) He shows that we must first have faith before we can work and please God.
#BCV:Psalms 119:168
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:168>Psalms 119:168</verse></h3>



I have kept thy precepts and thy testimonies: (e) for all my ways [are] before thee.



(e) I had no respect for men, but set you always before my eyes as the judge of my doings.
#BCV:Psalms 119:169
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:169>Psalms 119:169</verse></h3>



TAU. Let my cry come near before thee, O LORD: give me understanding (a) according to thy word.



(a) As you have promised to be the schoolmaster to all who depend on you.
#BCV:Psalms 119:171
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:171>Psalms 119:171</verse></h3>



My lips shall (b) utter praise, when thou hast (c) taught me thy statutes.



(b) The word means to pour forth continually.



(c) All his prayer and desire is to profit in the word of God.
#BCV:Psalms 119:175
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:175>Psalms 119:175</verse></h3>



Let my soul live, and it shall praise thee; and let thy (d) judgments help me.



(d) That is, your provident care over me, and with which you will judge my enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 119:176
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:176>Psalms 119:176</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 119:176
<h3><verse=psa 119:176>psa 119:176</verse></h3>




(e) Being chased to and fro by my enemies, and having no place to rest in.
#BCV:Psalms 119:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:1>Psalms 119:1</verse></h3>



ALEPH. Blessed [are] (a) the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD.



(a) Here they are not called blessed who think themselves wise in their own judgment, nor who
imagine to themselves a certain holiness, but they whose conversation is without hypocrisy.
#BCV:Psalms 119:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:3>Psalms 119:3</verse></h3>



They also do (b) no iniquity: they walk in his ways.



(b) For they are ruled by God's Spirit and embrace no doctrine but his.
#BCV:Psalms 119:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:5>Psalms 119:5</verse></h3>




(c) O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes!



(c) David acknowledges his imperfection, desiring God to reform it, that his life may be
conformable to God's word.
#BCV:Psalms 119:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:7>Psalms 119:7</verse></h3>



I will praise thee with uprightness of (d) heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous (e) judgments.



(d) For true religion stands in serving God without hypocrisy.



(e) That is, your precepts, which contain perfect righteousness.
#BCV:Psalms 119:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:8>Psalms 119:8</verse></h3>



I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not (f) utterly.



(f) He does not refuse to be tried by temptations, but he fears to faint, if God does not help his
infirmity in time.
#BCV:Psalms 119:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:9>Psalms 119:9</verse></h3>



BETH. Wherewithal shall a (a) young man cleanse his way? by taking heed [thereto] according to thy
word.

<page=1453>(a) Because youth is most given to licentiousness, he chiefly warns them to frame their lives after
God's word.
#BCV:Psalms 119:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:11>Psalms 119:11</verse></h3>



Thy word have I (b) hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.



(b) If God's word is carved in our hearts, we will be more able to resist the assaults of Satan: and
therefore the prophet desires God to instruct him daily more and more in it.
#BCV:Psalms 119:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:14>Psalms 119:14</verse></h3>



I have (c) rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as [much as] in all riches.



(c) The prophet does not boast of his virtues, but sets forth an example for others to follow God's
word, and leave worldly vanities.
#BCV:Psalms 119:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:17>Psalms 119:17</verse></h3>



GIMEL. Deal bountifully with thy servant, [that] I may (a) live, and keep thy word.



(a) He shows that we should not desire to live but to serve God, and that we can not serve him
correctly unless he opens our eyes and minds.
#BCV:Psalms 119:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:19>Psalms 119:19</verse></h3>



I [am] a (b) stranger in the earth: hide not thy commandments from me.



(b) Seeing man's life in this world is only a passage, what should become of him, if your word were
not his guide?
#BCV:Psalms 119:21
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:21>Psalms 119:21</verse></h3>



Thou (c) hast rebuked the proud [that are] cursed, which do err from thy commandments.



(c) In all ages you have plagued all such who maliciously and contemptuously depart from your truth.
#BCV:Psalms 119:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:23>Psalms 119:23</verse></h3>




(d) Princes also did sit [and] speak against me: [but] thy servant did meditate in thy statutes.



(d) When the powers of the world gave false sentence against me, your word was a guide and
counsellor to teach me what to do, and to comfort me.
#BCV:Psalms 119:25
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:25>Psalms 119:25</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 119:25
<h3><verse=psa 119:25>psa 119:25</verse></h3>




(a) That is, it is almost brought to the grave and without your word I cannot live.
#BCV:Psalms 119:26
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:26>Psalms 119:26</verse></h3>



I have (b) declared my ways, and thou heardest me: teach me thy statutes.



(b) I have confessed my offences and now depend wholly on you.
#BCV:Psalms 119:28
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:28>Psalms 119:28</verse></h3>



My soul melteth for heaviness: strengthen thou me according unto thy (c) word.



(c) If God did not maintain us by his word, our life would drop away like water.
#BCV:Psalms 119:29
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:29>Psalms 119:29</verse></h3>



Remove from me the (d) way of lying: and grant me thy law graciously.



(d) Instruct me in your word, by which my mind may be purged from vanity and taught to obey your
will.
#BCV:Psalms 119:32
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:32>Psalms 119:32</verse></h3>



I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt (e) enlarge my heart.



(e) By this he shows that we can neither choose good, cleave to God's word, nor turn forward in his
way, unless he make our hearts large to receive grace, and willing to obey.
#BCV:Psalms 119:33
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:33>Psalms 119:33</verse></h3>



HE. Teach (a) me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; and I shall keep it [unto] the end.



(a) He shows that he cannot follow on to the end, unless God teaches him often and leads him
forward.
#BCV:Psalms 119:34
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:34>Psalms 119:34</verse></h3>



Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with [my] whole (b) heart.



(b) Not only in outward conversation, but also with inward affection.
#BCV:Psalms 119:36
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:36>Psalms 119:36</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 119:36
<h3><verse=psa 119:36>psa 119:36</verse></h3>




(c) By this, meaning all other vices, because covetousness is the root of all evil.
#BCV:Psalms 119:37
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:37>Psalms 119:37</verse></h3>



Turn away mine (d) eyes from beholding vanity; [and] quicken thou me in thy way.



(d) Meaning, all his senses.
#BCV:Psalms 119:39
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:39>Psalms 119:39</verse></h3>



Turn away (e) my reproach which I fear: for thy judgments [are] good.



(e) Let me not fall to your dishonour but let my heart still delight in your gracious word.
#BCV:Psalms 119:40
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:40>Psalms 119:40</verse></h3>



Behold, I have longed after thy precepts: (f) quicken me in thy righteousness.



(f) Give me strength to continue in your word even to the end.
#BCV:Psalms 119:41
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:41>Psalms 119:41</verse></h3>



VAU. Let thy (a) mercies come also unto me, O LORD, [even] thy salvation, according to thy word.



(a) He shows that God's mercy and love is the first reason for our salvation.
#BCV:Psalms 119:42
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:42>Psalms 119:42</verse></h3>



So shall I (b) have wherewith to answer him that reproacheth me: for I trust in thy word.



(b) By trusting in God's word he assures himself to be able to confute the slanders of his adversaries.
#BCV:Psalms 119:45
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:45>Psalms 119:45</verse></h3>



And I will (c) walk at liberty: for I seek thy precepts.



(c) They who simply walk after God's word have no nets to entangle them, while they who do
contrary are ever in nets and snares.
#BCV:Psalms 119:46
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:46>Psalms 119:46</verse></h3>

<page=1456>I will speak of thy testimonies also before (d) kings, and will not be ashamed.



(d) He shows that the children of God should not permit their fathers glory to be obscured by the
vain pomp of princes.
#BCV:Psalms 119:49
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:49>Psalms 119:49</verse></h3>



ZAIN. Remember (a) the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope.



(a) Though he feels God's hand still lies on him, yet he rests on his promise, and comforts himself
in it.
#BCV:Psalms 119:51
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:51>Psalms 119:51</verse></h3>



The (b) proud have had me greatly in derision: [yet] have I not declined from thy law.



(b) Meaning the wicked who contemn God's word, and tread his religion under foot.
#BCV:Psalms 119:52
<h3><verse=Psalms 119:52>Psalms 119:52</verse></h3>



I remembered thy (c) judgments of old, O LORD; and have comforted myself.



(c) That is, the examples, by which you declare yourself to be judge of the world.

<h2>Psalms 120</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 120:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 120:1>Psalms 120:1</verse></h3>

<page=1457>"A Song of (a) degrees." In my (b) distress I cried unto the LORD, and he heard me.



(a) That is, of lifting up the tune and rising in singing.



(b) Even though the children of God should rejoice when they suffer for righteousness sake, yet it is
a great grief to the flesh to hear evil for well doing.
#BCV:Psalms 120:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 120:3>Psalms 120:3</verse></h3>



What shall be given unto thee? or what shall be done unto thee, thou (c) false tongue?



(c) He assured himself that God would turn their craft to their own destruction.
#BCV:Psalms 120:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 120:4>Psalms 120:4</verse></h3>




(d) Sharp arrows of the mighty, with coals of juniper.



(d) He shows that there is nothing so sharp to pierce, nor so hot to set on fire, as a slanderous
tongue.
#BCV:Psalms 120:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 120:5>Psalms 120:5</verse></h3>



Woe is me, that I sojourn in (e) Mesech, [that] I dwell in the tents of (f) Kedar!



(e) These were people of Arabia, who came from Japheth, (<bcv=Gen 10:2>Gen 10:2</bcv>).



(f) That is, of the Ishmaelites.
#BCV:Psalms 120:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 120:7>Psalms 120:7</verse></h3>



I [am for] (g) peace: but when I speak, they [are] for war.



(g) He declares what he means by Meshech and Kedar, that is, the Israelites who had degenerated
from their godly fathers, and hated and contended against the faithful.

<h2>Psalms 121</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 121:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 121:2>Psalms 121:2</verse></h3>

<page=1458>My help [cometh] from the LORD, which made (a) heaven and earth.



(a) He accuses man's ingratitude, which cannot depend on God's power.
#BCV:Psalms 121:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 121:3>Psalms 121:3</verse></h3>



He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not (b) slumber.



(b) He shows that God's providence not only watches over his Church in general, but also over
every member of it.
#BCV:Psalms 121:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 121:6>Psalms 121:6</verse></h3>



The sun shall not (c) smite thee by day, nor the moon by night.



(c) Neither heat nor cold, nor any inconvenience will be able to destroy God's Church, even though
for a time they may molest it.
#BCV:Psalms 121:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 121:8>Psalms 121:8</verse></h3>



The LORD shall preserve thy (d) going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for
evermore.



(d) Whatever you attempt will have good success.

<h2>Psalms 122</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 122:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 122:1>Psalms 122:1</verse></h3>

<page=1459>"A Song of degrees of David." I (a) was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of
the LORD.



(a) He rejoices that God had appointed a place where the ark would still remain.
#BCV:Psalms 122:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 122:2>Psalms 122:2</verse></h3>



Our (b) feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem.



(b) Which were wont to wander to and fro, as the ark moved.
#BCV:Psalms 122:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 122:3>Psalms 122:3</verse></h3>



Jerusalem is builded as a city that is (c) compact together:



(c) By the artificial joining and beauty of the houses, he means the peace and love that was between
the citizens.
#BCV:Psalms 122:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 122:4>Psalms 122:4</verse></h3>



Whither (d) the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, unto the testimony of Israel, to give thanks
unto the name of the LORD.



(d) All the tribes according to God's covenant will come and pray there.
#BCV:Psalms 122:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 122:5>Psalms 122:5</verse></h3>



For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of the house of (e) David.



(e) In whose house God placed the throne of justice, and made it a figure of Christ's kingdom.
#BCV:Psalms 122:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 122:7>Psalms 122:7</verse></h3>



Peace be within thy (f) walls, [and] prosperity within thy palaces.



(f) The favour of God prosper you both within and without.
#BCV:Psalms 122:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 122:8>Psalms 122:8</verse></h3>



For my (g) brethren and companions' sakes, I will now say, Peace [be] within thee.

<page=1460>(g) Not only for my own sake but for all the faithful.

<h2>Psalms 123</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 123:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 123:2>Psalms 123:2</verse></h3>

<page=1461>Behold, as the eyes of (a) servants [look] unto the hand of their masters, [and] as the eyes of a
maiden unto the hand of her mistress; so our eyes [wait] upon the LORD our God, until that he
have mercy upon us.



(a) He compares the condition of the godly, to servants who are destitute of all help, assuring that
when all other help fails, God is always at hand and like himself.
#BCV:Psalms 123:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 123:3>Psalms 123:3</verse></h3>



Have mercy upon us, O LORD, have mercy upon us: for we are (b) exceedingly filled with contempt.



(b) He declares that when the faithful are so full that they cannot endure the oppression and
scorning of the wicked any more, there is always help above, if with hungry desires they call for it.

<h2>Psalms 124</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 124:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 124:1>Psalms 124:1</verse></h3>

<page=1462>"A Song of degrees of David." If [it had not been] the LORD who was (a) on our side, now may
Israel say;



(a) He shows that God was ready to help at need and that there was no other way to be saved, but by
this means alone.
#BCV:Psalms 124:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 124:3>Psalms 124:3</verse></h3>



Then they had swallowed us up (b) quick, when their wrath was kindled against us:



(b) So unable were we to resist.
#BCV:Psalms 124:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 124:4>Psalms 124:4</verse></h3>



Then the (c) waters had overwhelmed us, the stream had gone over our soul:



(c) He uses proper similitudes to express the great danger that the Church was in, and out of which
God miraculously delivered them.
#BCV:Psalms 124:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 124:7>Psalms 124:7</verse></h3>



Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the (d) snare of the fowlers: the snare is broken, and we are
escaped.



(d) For the wicked not only furiously rage against the faithful, but craftily imagined to destroy them.

<h2>Psalms 125</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 125:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 125:1>Psalms 125:1</verse></h3>

<page=1463>"A Song of degrees." They that trust in the LORD [shall be] as mount Zion, [which] cannot (a) be
removed, [but] abideth for ever.



(a) Though the world is subject to mutations, yet the people of God will stand sure and be defended
by God's providence.
#BCV:Psalms 125:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 125:3>Psalms 125:3</verse></h3>



For the (b) rod of the wicked shall not rest upon the lot of the righteous; lest the righteous put forth
their hands unto iniquity.



(b) Though God permits his to be under the cross lest they embrace wickedness, yet this cross will
not so rest on them, that it should drive them from hope.
#BCV:Psalms 125:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 125:5>Psalms 125:5</verse></h3>




(c) As for such as turn aside unto their crooked ways, the LORD shall lead them forth with the
workers of iniquity: [but] peace [shall be] upon Israel.



(c) He desires God to purge his Church from hypocrites and such as have no zeal for the truth.

<h2>Psalms 126</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 126:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 126:1>Psalms 126:1</verse></h3>

<page=1464>"A Song of degrees." When the LORD turned again the captivity of Zion, we were like them that (a)
dream.



(a) Their deliverance was incredible and therefore took away all excuse for ingratitude.
#BCV:Psalms 126:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 126:2>Psalms 126:2</verse></h3>



Then was our mouth (b) filled with laughter, and our tongue with singing: then said they among the



(c) heathen, The LORD hath done great things for them.



(b) He shows how the godly should rejoice when God gathers his Church or delivers it.



(c) If the infidels confess God's wonderful work, the faithful can never show themselves sufficiently
thankful.
#BCV:Psalms 126:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 126:4>Psalms 126:4</verse></h3>



Turn again our captivity, O LORD, as the (d) streams in the south.



(d) It is no more impossible for God to deliver his people than to cause the rivers to run in the
wilderness and barren places.
#BCV:Psalms 126:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 126:6>Psalms 126:6</verse></h3>



He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing (e) precious seed, shall doubtless come again with
rejoicing, bringing his sheaves [with him].



(e) That is, seed which was scarce and dear: meaning, that they who trusted in God's promise to
return had their desire.

<h2>Psalms 127</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 127:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 127:1>Psalms 127:1</verse></h3>

<page=1465>"A Song of degrees for Solomon." Except the LORD (a) build the house, they labour in vain that
build it: except the LORD keep the (b) city, the watchman waketh [but] in vain.



(a) That is, govern and dispose all things pertaining to the family.



(b) The public estate of the commonwealth.
#BCV:Psalms 127:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 127:2>Psalms 127:2</verse></h3>



[It is] vain for (c) you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread (d) of sorrows: [for] so he giveth
his beloved (e) sleep.



(c) Who watch and ward and are also magistrates and rulers of the city.



(d) Either that which is gained by hard labour, or eaten with grief of mind.



(e) Not exempting them from labour, but making their labours comfortable and as it were a rest.
#BCV:Psalms 127:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 127:4>Psalms 127:4</verse></h3>



As arrows [are] in the hand of a mighty man; so [are] (f) children of the youth.



(f) That is, endued with strength and virtues from God: for these are signs of God's blessings, and
not the number.
#BCV:Psalms 127:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 127:5>Psalms 127:5</verse></h3>



Happy [is] the man that hath his quiver full of them: they (g) shall not be ashamed, but they shall
speak with the enemies in the gate.



(g) Such children will be able to stop their adversaries mouths, when their godly life is maliciously
accused before judges.

<h2>Psalms 128</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 128:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 128:1>Psalms 128:1</verse></h3>

<page=1466>"A Song of degrees." Blessed [is] every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his (a) ways.



(a) God approves not our life, unless it is reformed according to his word.
#BCV:Psalms 128:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 128:2>Psalms 128:2</verse></h3>



For thou shalt eat the labour of thine (b) hands: happy [shalt] thou [be], and [it shall be] well with
thee.



(b) The world esteems them happy who live in wealth and idleness but the Holy Spirit approves
them best who live of the mean profit of their labours.
#BCV:Psalms 128:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 128:3>Psalms 128:3</verse></h3>



Thy wife [shall be] as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy (c) children like olive plants
round about thy table.



(c) Because God's favour appears in no outward thing more than in the increase of children, he
promises to enrich the faithful with this gift.
#BCV:Psalms 128:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 128:5>Psalms 128:5</verse></h3>



The LORD shall (d) bless thee out of Zion: and thou shalt see the good of (e) Jerusalem all the days
of thy life.



(d) Because of the spiritual blessing which God has made to his Church, these temporal things will
be granted.



(e) For unless God blessed his Church publicly, this private blessing was nothing.

<h2>Psalms 129</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 129:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 129:1>Psalms 129:1</verse></h3>

<page=1467>"A Song of degrees." Many a time have they afflicted me from my youth, may (a) Israel now say:



(a) The Church now afflicted should remember how her condition has always been such from the
beginning to be molested most grievously by the wicked, yet in time it has always been delivered.
#BCV:Psalms 129:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 129:4>Psalms 129:4</verse></h3>



The LORD [is] (b) righteous: he hath cut asunder the cords of the wicked.



(b) Because God is righteous, he cannot but plague his adversary, and deliver his as oxen out of the
plough.
#BCV:Psalms 129:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 129:6>Psalms 129:6</verse></h3>




(c) Let them be as the grass [upon] the housetops, which withereth afore it groweth up:



(c) The enemies who lift themselves high, and as it were approach the Sun, are consumed with the
heat of God's wrath, because they are not grounded in godly humility.
#BCV:Psalms 129:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 129:8>Psalms 129:8</verse></h3>




(d) Neither do they which go by say, The blessing of the LORD [be] upon you: we bless you in the
name of the LORD.



(d) That is, the wicked will perish, and none will pass for them.

<h2>Psalms 130</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 130:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 130:1>Psalms 130:1</verse></h3>

<page=1468>"A Song of degrees." Out of the (a) depths have I cried unto thee, O LORD.



(a) Being in great distress and sorrow.
#BCV:Psalms 130:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 130:3>Psalms 130:3</verse></h3>



If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, (b) who shall stand?



(b) He declares that we cannot be just before God but by forgiveness of sins.
#BCV:Psalms 130:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 130:4>Psalms 130:4</verse></h3>



But [there is] forgiveness with thee, that thou (c) mayest be feared.



(c) Because by nature you are merciful therefore the faithful revere you.
#BCV:Psalms 130:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 130:7>Psalms 130:7</verse></h3>



Let Israel hope in the LORD: for with the LORD [there is] (d) mercy, and with him [is] plenteous
redemption.



(d) He shows to whom the mercy of God belongs, that is, Israel, to the Church and not the
reprobate.

<h2>Psalms 131</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 131:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 131:1>Psalms 131:1</verse></h3>

<page=1469>"A Song of degrees of David." LORD, (a) my heart is not haughty, nor mine eyes lofty: neither do I
exercise myself in great (b) matters, or in things too high for me.



(a) He sets forth his great humility as an example to all rulers and governors.



(b) Which pass the measure and limits of his calling.
#BCV:Psalms 131:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 131:2>Psalms 131:2</verse></h3>



Surely I have behaved and quieted myself, as a child that is weaned of his mother: my soul [is] even
as a (c) weaned child.



(c) He was void of ambition and wicked desires.

<h2>Psalms 132</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 132:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 132:1>Psalms 132:1</verse></h3>

<page=1470>A Song of degrees. LORD, remember David, [and] all his (a) afflictions:



(a) That is, with great difficulty he came to the kingdom, and with great zeal and care he went about
to build your temple.
#BCV:Psalms 132:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 132:3>Psalms 132:3</verse></h3>



Surely I (b) will not come into the tabernacle of my house, nor go up into my bed;



(b) Because the chief charge of the king was to set forth God's glory, he shows that he would take
no rest, neither would he go about any worldly thing, were it never so necessary before he had
executed his office.
#BCV:Psalms 132:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 132:5>Psalms 132:5</verse></h3>



Until I find out a place for the (c) LORD, an habitation for the mighty [God] of Jacob.



(c) That is, the ark, which was a sign of God's presence.
#BCV:Psalms 132:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 132:6>Psalms 132:6</verse></h3>



Lo, we heard of it at (d) Ephratah: we found it in the fields of the wood.



(d) The common instinct was that the ark should remain in Ephratah, that is, in Bethlehem a
plentiful place: but later we perceived that you would place it in Jerusalem, which was barren as a
forest and compassed about only with hills.
#BCV:Psalms 132:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 132:8>Psalms 132:8</verse></h3>



Arise, O LORD, into thy (e) rest; thou, and the ark of thy strength.



(e) That is Jerusalem, because later his Ark would move to no other place.
#BCV:Psalms 132:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 132:9>Psalms 132:9</verse></h3>



Let thy priests be clothed with (f) righteousness; and let thy saints shout for joy.



(f) Let the effect of your grace appear both in the priests and in the people.
#BCV:Psalms 132:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 132:10>Psalms 132:10</verse></h3>

<page=1471>For thy (g) servant David's sake turn not away the face of thine anointed.



(g) As you first made promise to David, so continue it to his posterity that whatever they ask for
their people, it may be granted.
#BCV:Psalms 132:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 132:12>Psalms 132:12</verse></h3>



If thy children will keep my covenant and my testimony that I shall teach them, their children shall
also sit upon thy throne for (h) evermore.



(h) Because this cannot be accomplished but in Christ, it follows that the promise was spiritual.
#BCV:Psalms 132:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 132:14>Psalms 132:14</verse></h3>



This [is] my rest for ever: here will I dwell; for I have (i) desired it.



(i) Meaning, for his own sake and not for the plentifulness of the place: for he promises to bless it,
declaring before that it was barren.
#BCV:Psalms 132:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 132:16>Psalms 132:16</verse></h3>



I will also clothe her priests with (k) salvation: and her saints shall shout aloud for joy.



(k) That is, with my protection, by which they will be safe.
#BCV:Psalms 132:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 132:17>Psalms 132:17</verse></h3>



There will I make the (l) horn of David to bud: I have ordained a lamp for mine anointed.



(l) Though his force for a time seemed to be broken, yet he promises to restore it.

<h2>Psalms 133</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 133:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 133:1>Psalms 133:1</verse></h3>

<page=1472>"A Song of degrees of David." Behold, how good and how pleasant [it is] for brethren to dwell (a)
together in unity!



(a) Because the greatest part was against David, though some favoured him, yet when he was
established king at length, they joined all together like brothers: and therefore he shows by these
similarities the convenience of brotherly love.
#BCV:Psalms 133:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 133:2>Psalms 133:2</verse></h3>



[It is] like the precious (b) ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, [even] Aaron's
beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments;



(b) The ointment was a figure of the graces which come from Christ the head of his Church.
#BCV:Psalms 133:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 133:3>Psalms 133:3</verse></h3>



As the dew of (c) Hermon, [and as the dew] that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for (d)
there the LORD commanded the blessing, [even] life for evermore.



(c) By Hermon and Zion he means the plentiful country about Jerusalem.



(d) Where there is such concord.

<h2>Psalms 134</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 134:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 134:1>Psalms 134:1</verse></h3>

<page=1473>"A Song of degrees." Behold, bless ye the LORD, all [ye] (a) servants of the LORD, which by night
stand in the house of the LORD.



(a) You who are Levites and chiefly appointed to this office.
#BCV:Psalms 134:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 134:2>Psalms 134:2</verse></h3>



Lift up your (b) hands [in] the sanctuary, and bless the LORD.



(b) For their charge was not only to keep the temple, but to pray there and to give God thanks.
#BCV:Psalms 134:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 134:3>Psalms 134:3</verse></h3>



The LORD that (c) made heaven and earth bless thee out of Zion.



(c) And therefore has all power, bless you with his fatherly love declared in Zion. Thus the Levites
used to praise the Lord, and bless the people.

<h2>Psalms 135</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 135:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 135:2>Psalms 135:2</verse></h3>

<page=1474>Ye that (a) stand in the house of the LORD, in the (b) courts of the house of our God,



(a) You Levites who are in his sanctuary.



(b) Meaning, the people: for the people and Levites had their courts, which were separate places of
the temple.
#BCV:Psalms 135:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 135:4>Psalms 135:4</verse></h3>



For the LORD hath (c) chosen Jacob unto himself, [and] Israel for his peculiar treasure.



(c) That is, has freely loved the posterity of Abraham.
#BCV:Psalms 135:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 135:6>Psalms 135:6</verse></h3>



Whatsoever the LORD pleased, [that] (d) did he in heaven, and in earth, in the seas, and all deep
places.



(d) He joined God's power with his will, to the intent that we should not separate them and by this
he wills God's people to depend on his power which he confirms by examples.
#BCV:Psalms 135:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 135:12>Psalms 135:12</verse></h3>



And (e) gave their land [for] an heritage, an heritage unto Israel his people.



(e) He shows what fruit the godly conceive of God's power, by which they see how he destroys his
enemies, and delivers his people.
#BCV:Psalms 135:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 135:14>Psalms 135:14</verse></h3>



For the LORD will (f) judge his people, and he will repent himself concerning his servants.



(f) That is, govern and defend his people.
#BCV:Psalms 135:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 135:15>Psalms 135:15</verse></h3>



The (g) idols of the heathen [are] silver and gold, the work of men's hands.



(g) By showing the punishment God appoints for the heathen idolaters, he warns his people to
beware of the same offences, seeing that idols have neither power nor life, and that their deliverance
came not by idols, but by the mighty power of God, see (<bcv=Psa 115:4-14>Psa 115:4-14</bcv>).

<h2>Psalms 136</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 136:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 136:1>Psalms 136:1</verse></h3>

<page=1475>O give thanks unto the LORD; for [he is] good: for his (a) mercy [endureth] for ever.

(a) By this repetition he shows that the least of God's benefits bind us to thanksgiving: but chiefly
his mercy, which is principally declared towards his Church.
#BCV:Psalms 136:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 136:6>Psalms 136:6</verse></h3>



To him that stretched out the earth above the waters: for his (b) mercy [endureth] for ever.



(b) This was a common kind of thanksgiving, which the whole people used, when they had received
any benefit from God, as in (<bcv=2Ch 7:6>Ch2 7:6</bcv>, <bcv=2Ch 20:21>Ch2 20:21</bcv>), meaning that God was not only merciful to their
fathers, but also continued the same to their posterity.

#BCV:Psalms 136:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 136:11>Psalms 136:11</verse></h3>



And (c) brought out Israel from among them: for his mercy [endureth] for ever:



(c) God's merciful providence toward man appears in all his creatures, but chiefly in that he delivered
his Church from the clutches of their enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 136:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 136:12>Psalms 136:12</verse></h3>



With a strong hand, and with a (d) stretched out arm: for his mercy [endureth] for ever.



(d) In doing such a work as was never done before, nor that any other could do.
#BCV:Psalms 136:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 136:16>Psalms 136:16</verse></h3>



To him which led his people through the (e) wilderness: for his mercy [endureth] for ever.



(e) Where for the space of forty years he showed infinite and most strange wonders.
#BCV:Psalms 136:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 136:18>Psalms 136:18</verse></h3>



And slew (f) famous kings: for his mercy [endureth] for ever:



(f) Declaring by it that no power or authority was so dear to him as the love of his Church.
#BCV:Psalms 136:23
<h3><verse=Psalms 136:23>Psalms 136:23</verse></h3>

<page=1476>Who remembered us in our (g) low estate: for his mercy [endureth] for ever:



(g) In our greatest affliction and slavery when we looked for nothing less than to have had any help.
#BCV:Psalms 136:25
<h3><verse=Psalms 136:25>Psalms 136:25</verse></h3>



Who giveth food to all (h) flesh: for his mercy [endureth] for ever.



(h) Seeing that God provides even for the beasts much more has he care over his.
#BCV:Psalms 136:26
<h3><verse=Psalms 136:26>Psalms 136:26</verse></h3>




(i) O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy [endureth] for ever.



(i) Seeing that all ages have had most plain testimonies of God's benefits.

<h2>Psalms 137</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 137:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 137:1>Psalms 137:1</verse></h3>

<page=1477>By the rivers of Babylon, there we (a) sat down, yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion.



(a) That is, we abode a long time, and even though the country was pleasant, yet it could not stay our
tears, nor turn us from the true service of our God.
#BCV:Psalms 137:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 137:2>Psalms 137:2</verse></h3>



We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst (b) thereof.



(b) That is, of that country.
#BCV:Psalms 137:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 137:3>Psalms 137:3</verse></h3>



For there they that carried us away captive (c) required of us a song; and they that wasted us
[required of us] mirth, [saying], Sing us [one] of the songs of Zion.



(c) The Babylonians speak thus in mocking us, as though by our silence we should signify that we
hoped no more in God.
#BCV:Psalms 137:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 137:5>Psalms 137:5</verse></h3>




(d) If I forget thee, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget [her cunning].



(d) Even the faithful are touched by their particular griefs, yet the common sorrow of the Church is
most grievous to them, and is such as they cannot but remember and lament.
#BCV:Psalms 137:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 137:6>Psalms 137:6</verse></h3>



If I do not remember thee, let my tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth; if I prefer not Jerusalem
above my (e) chief joy.



(e) The decay of God's religion in their country was so grievous that no joy could make them glad,
unless it was restored.
#BCV:Psalms 137:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 137:7>Psalms 137:7</verse></h3>



Remember, O LORD, the children of (f) Edom in the (g) day of Jerusalem; who said, Rase [it], rase
[it, even] to the foundation thereof.

<page=1478>(f) As was prophesied in <bcv=Eze 25:13>(Eze 25:13,</bcv> <bcv=Jer 49:7>Jer 49:7,</bcv> <bcv=Oba 1:10>Oba 1:10),</bcv> showing that the Edomites who came from
Esau, conspired with the Babylonians against their brethren and kinsfolk.

(g) When you visited Jerusalem.

#BCV:Psalms 137:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 137:9>Psalms 137:9</verse></h3>

(h) Happy [shall he be], that taketh and dasheth thy little ones against the stones.

(h) He alludes to Isaiah's prophecy in (<bcv=Isa 13:16>Isa 13:16</bcv>) promising good success to Cyrus and Darius, whom
ambition moved to fight against Babylon, but God used them as his rods to punish his enemies.

<h2>Psalms 138</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 138:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 138:1>Psalms 138:1</verse></h3>

<page=1479>"[A Psalm] of David." I will praise thee with my whole heart: before the (a) gods will I sing praise
unto thee.



(a) Even in the presence of angels and of them who have authority among men.
#BCV:Psalms 138:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 138:2>Psalms 138:2</verse></h3>



I will worship toward thy holy (b) temple, and praise thy name for thy lovingkindness and for thy
truth: for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name.



(b) Both the temple and ceremonial service at Christ's coming were abolished: so that now God will
be worshipped only in spirit and truth, (<bcv=John 4:23>Joh 4:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 138:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 138:3>Psalms 138:3</verse></h3>



In the day when I cried thou answeredst me, [and] (c) strengthenedst me [with] strength in my soul.



(c) You have strengthened me against my outward and inward enemies.
#BCV:Psalms 138:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 138:4>Psalms 138:4</verse></h3>



All the (d) kings of the earth shall praise thee, O LORD, when they hear the words of thy mouth.



(d) All the world will confess that you have wonderfully preserved me, and performed your promise.
#BCV:Psalms 138:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 138:6>Psalms 138:6</verse></h3>



Though the LORD [be] high, yet hath he respect unto the lowly: but the proud he knoweth (e) afar
off.



(e) Distance of place cannot hinder God to show mercy to his, and so judge the wicked though they
think that he is far off.
#BCV:Psalms 138:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 138:8>Psalms 138:8</verse></h3>



The LORD will (f) perfect [that which] concerneth me: thy mercy, O LORD, [endureth] for ever:
forsake not the works of thine own hands.



(f) Though my enemies rage, yet the Lord, who has begun his work in me, will continue his grace to
the end.

<h2>Psalms 139</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 139:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 139:2>Psalms 139:2</verse></h3>

<page=1480>Thou knowest my (a) downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off.



(a) He confesses that neither our actions, thoughts or any part of our life can be hid from God,
though he seems to be far off.
#BCV:Psalms 139:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 139:3>Psalms 139:3</verse></h3>



Thou (b) compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted [with] all my ways.



(b) So that they are evidently known to you.
#BCV:Psalms 139:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 139:4>Psalms 139:4</verse></h3>



For [there is] not a word in my (c) tongue, [but], lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether.



(c) You know my meaning before I speak.
#BCV:Psalms 139:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 139:5>Psalms 139:5</verse></h3>



Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine (d) hand upon me.



(d) You so guide me with your hand, that I can turn no way, but where you appoint me.
#BCV:Psalms 139:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 139:7>Psalms 139:7</verse></h3>



Whither shall I go from thy (e) spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence?



(e) From your power and knowledge?
#BCV:Psalms 139:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 139:10>Psalms 139:10</verse></h3>



Even there shall thy hand (f) lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me.



(f) Your power holds me so fast that there is no way I can escape from you.
#BCV:Psalms 139:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 139:11>Psalms 139:11</verse></h3>



If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be (g) light about me.



(g) Though darkness is a hinderance to man's sight, yet is serves your eyes as well as the light.
#BCV:Psalms 139:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 139:13>Psalms 139:13</verse></h3>

<page=1481>For thou hast (h) possessed my reins: thou hast covered me in my mother's womb.



(h) You have made me in all parts and therefore must know me.
#BCV:Psalms 139:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 139:14>Psalms 139:14</verse></h3>



I will praise thee; for I am (i) fearfully [and] wonderfully made: marvellous [are] thy works; and [that]
my soul knoweth right well.



(i) Considering your wonderful work in forming me, I cannot but praise you and fear your mighty
power.
#BCV:Psalms 139:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 139:15>Psalms 139:15</verse></h3>



My substance was not hid from thee, when I was made in secret, [and] curiously wrought (k) in the
lowest parts of the earth.



(k) That is, in my mother's womb: which he compares to the inward parts of the earth.
#BCV:Psalms 139:16
<h3><verse=Psalms 139:16>Psalms 139:16</verse></h3>



Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; (l) and in thy book all [my members] were
written, [which] in continuance were fashioned, when [as yet there was] none of them.



(l) Seeing that you knew me before I was composed of either flesh or bone, much more now must
you know me when you have fashioned me.
#BCV:Psalms 139:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 139:17>Psalms 139:17</verse></h3>



How (m) precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!



(m) How should we esteem the excellent declaration of your wisdom in the creation of man?
#BCV:Psalms 139:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 139:18>Psalms 139:18</verse></h3>



[If] I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, (n) I am still with
thee.



(n) I continually see new opportunity to meditate in your wisdom, and to praise you.
#BCV:Psalms 139:21
<h3><verse=Psalms 139:21>Psalms 139:21</verse></h3>

<page=1482>Do not I (o) hate them, O LORD, that hate thee? and am not I grieved with those that rise up
against thee?



(o) He teaches us boldly to contemn all the hatred of the wicked and friendship of the world, when
they would prevent us from serving God sincerely.
#BCV:Psalms 139:24
<h3><verse=Psalms 139:24>Psalms 139:24</verse></h3>



And see if [there be any] (p) wicked way in me, and lead me in the (q) way everlasting.



(p) Or any heinous or rebellious way: meaning that though he was subject to sin, yet he was not
given to wickedness, and to provoke God by rebellion.



(q) That is, continue your favour toward me to the end.

<h2>Psalms 140</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 140:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 140:1>Psalms 140:1</verse></h3>

<page=1483>"To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David." Deliver me, O LORD, from the evil man: preserve me
from the (a) violent man;



(a) Who persecutes me out of malice and without cause.
#BCV:Psalms 140:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 140:2>Psalms 140:2</verse></h3>



Which imagine mischiefs in [their] (b) heart; continually are they gathered together [for] war.



(b) That is, by their false accusations and lies, they kindle the hatred of the wicked against me.
#BCV:Psalms 140:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 140:3>Psalms 140:3</verse></h3>



They have sharpened their tongues like a serpent; (c) adders' poison [is] under their lips. Selah.



(c) He shows the weapons the wicked use, when power and force fail them.
#BCV:Psalms 140:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 140:4>Psalms 140:4</verse></h3>



Keep (d) me, O LORD, from the hands of the wicked; preserve me from the violent man; who have
purposed to overthrow my goings.



(d) He declares the remedy of the godly, when they are oppressed by the worldlings.
#BCV:Psalms 140:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 140:7>Psalms 140:7</verse></h3>



O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, thou (e) hast covered my head in the day of battle.



(e) He calls to God with lively faith, being assured of his mercies, because he had before time
proved, that God helped him ever in his dangers.
#BCV:Psalms 140:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 140:8>Psalms 140:8</verse></h3>



Grant not, O LORD, the desires of the wicked: (f) further not his wicked device; [lest] they exalt
themselves. Selah.



(f) For it is in God's hand to overthrow the counsels and enterprises of the wicked.
#BCV:Psalms 140:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 140:9>Psalms 140:9</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 140:9
<h3><verse=psa 140:9>psa 140:9</verse></h3>




(g) It seems that he alludes to Saul.
#BCV:Psalms 140:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 140:10>Psalms 140:10</verse></h3>



Let burning coals fall upon them: (h) let them be cast into the fire; into deep pits, that they rise not
up again.



(h) That is by God, for David saw that they were reprobate and that there was no hope of
repentance in them.
#BCV:Psalms 140:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 140:11>Psalms 140:11</verse></h3>



Let not an evil speaker be established in the earth: evil shall (i) hunt the violent man to overthrow
[him].



(i) God's plagues will light on him in such sort, that he will not escape.
#BCV:Psalms 140:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 140:13>Psalms 140:13</verse></h3>



Surely the righteous shall give thanks unto thy name: the upright shall (k) dwell in thy presence.



(k) That is, will be descended and preserved by your fatherly providence and care.

<h2>Psalms 141</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 141:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 141:1>Psalms 141:1</verse></h3>

<page=1485>"A Psalm of David." LORD, I (a) cry unto thee: make haste unto me; give ear unto my voice, when
I cry unto thee.



(a) He shows that there is no other refuge in our necessity but only to flee to God for comfort of
soul.
#BCV:Psalms 141:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 141:2>Psalms 141:2</verse></h3>



Let my prayer be set forth before thee [as] incense; [and] the (b) lifting up of my hands [as] the
evening sacrifice.



(b) He means his earnest zeal and gesture, which he used in prayer: alluding to the sacrifices which
were by God's commandment offered in the old law.
#BCV:Psalms 141:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 141:3>Psalms 141:3</verse></h3>



Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; (c) keep the door of my lips.



(c) He desires God to keep his thoughts and ways either from thinking or executing vengeance.
#BCV:Psalms 141:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 141:4>Psalms 141:4</verse></h3>



Incline not my heart to [any] evil thing, to practise wicked works with men that work iniquity: and let
me not eat of their (d) dainties.



(d) Let not their prosperity lure me to be wicked as they are.
#BCV:Psalms 141:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 141:5>Psalms 141:5</verse></h3>



Let the righteous smite me; [it shall be] a kindness: and let (e) him reprove me; [it shall be] an
excellent oil, [which] shall not break my head: for yet my prayer also [shall be] in their calamities.



(e) He could abide all corrections that came from a loving heart.

#BCV:Psalms 141:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 141:6>Psalms 141:6</verse></h3>



When their judges are overthrown in stony places, they shall (g) hear my words; for they are sweet.



(g) The people who follow their wicked rulers in persecuting the prophet will repent and turn to
God, when they see their wicked rulers punished.
#BCV:Psalms 141:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 141:7>Psalms 141:7</verse></h3>

<page=1486>Our bones are scattered at the (h) grave's mouth, as when one cutteth and cleaveth [wood] upon the
earth.



(h) Here it appears that David was miraculously delivered out of many deaths as in (<bcv=2Co 1:9-10>Co2 1:9-10</bcv>).
#BCV:Psalms 141:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 141:10>Psalms 141:10</verse></h3>



Let the wicked fall into (i) their own nets, (k) whilst that I withal escape.



(i) Into God's nets, by which he catches the wicked in their own malice.



(k) So that none of them escape.

<h2>Psalms 142</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 142:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 142:1>Psalms 142:1</verse></h3>

<page=1487>"Maschil of David; A Prayer when he was in the cave." I cried unto the LORD with my voice; with
my voice unto the LORD did I (a) make my supplication.



(a) David's patience and constant prayer to God condemns their wicked rage, who in their troubles
either despair and murmur against God, or else seek other than God, to have relief in their miseries.
#BCV:Psalms 142:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 142:5>Psalms 142:5</verse></h3>



I cried unto thee, O LORD: I said, Thou [art] my (b) refuge [and] my portion in the land of the
living.



(b) Though all means failed him, yet he knew that God would never forsake him.
#BCV:Psalms 142:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 142:7>Psalms 142:7</verse></h3>



Bring my soul out of (c) prison, that I may praise thy name: the righteous shall (d) compass me
about; for thou shalt deal bountifully with me.



(c) For he was on all sides beset with his enemies as though he had been in a severe prison.



(d) Either to rejoice at my wonderful deliverer, or to set a crown on my head.

<h2>Psalms 143</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 143:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 143:1>Psalms 143:1</verse></h3>

<page=1488>"A Psalm of David." Hear my prayer, O LORD, give ear to my supplications: (a) in thy faithfulness
answer me, [and] in thy (b) righteousness.



(a) That is, as you have promised to be faithful in your promise to all who trust in you.



(b) That is, according to your free goodness, by which you defend your own.
#BCV:Psalms 143:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 143:2>Psalms 143:2</verse></h3>



And enter not into judgment with thy servant: for in thy (c) sight shall no man living be justified.



(c) He know that his afflictions were God's messengers to call him to repentance for his sins, though
toward his enemies he was innocent, and in God's sight all men are sinners.
#BCV:Psalms 143:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 143:3>Psalms 143:3</verse></h3>



For the enemy hath persecuted my soul; he hath smitten my life down to the ground; he hath made
me to dwell in darkness, as those that have been (d) long dead.



(d) He acknowledges that God is the only and true physician and heal him: and that he is able to
raise him to life, though he were dead long ago, and turned to ashes.
#BCV:Psalms 143:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 143:4>Psalms 143:4</verse></h3>



Therefore is my spirit overwhelmed within me; my (e) heart within me is desolate.



(e) So that only by faith and by the grace of God's Spirit was he upheld.
#BCV:Psalms 143:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 143:5>Psalms 143:5</verse></h3>



I remember the (f) days of old; I meditate on all thy works; I muse on the work of thy hands.



(f) That is, your great benefits of old, and the manifold examples of your favour towards your own.
#BCV:Psalms 143:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 143:8>Psalms 143:8</verse></h3>



Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the (g) morning; for in thee do I trust: (h) cause me to know
the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee.



(g) That is, speedily and in due season.

<page=1489>(h) Let your Holy Spirit counsel me how to come forth from these great cares and troubles.
#BCV:Psalms 143:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 143:9>Psalms 143:9</verse></h3>



Deliver me, O LORD, from mine enemies: (i) I flee unto thee to hide me.



(i) I hid myself under the shadow of your wings that I might be defended by your power.
#BCV:Psalms 143:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 143:10>Psalms 143:10</verse></h3>




(k) Teach me to (l) do thy will; for thou [art] my God: thy spirit [is] good; lead me into the land of
uprightness.



(k) He confesses that both the knowledge and obedience of God's will comes by the Spirit of God,
who teaches us by his word, gives understanding by his Spirit, and frames our hearts by his grace to
obey him.



(l) That is, justly and aright, for as soon as we decline from God's will, we fall into error.
#BCV:Psalms 143:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 143:12>Psalms 143:12</verse></h3>



And of thy mercy (m) cut off mine enemies, and destroy all them that afflict my soul: for I [am] thy



(n) servant.



(m) Which will be a sign of your fatherly kindness toward me.



(n) Resigning myself wholly to you, and trusting in your protection.

<h2>Psalms 144</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 144:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 144:1>Psalms 144:1</verse></h3>

<page=1490>"[A Psalm] of David." Blessed [be] the LORD my strength, which (a) teacheth my hands to war,
[and] my fingers to fight:



(a) Who out of a poor shepherd has made a valiant warrior and mighty conqueror.
#BCV:Psalms 144:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 144:2>Psalms 144:2</verse></h3>



My goodness, and my fortress; my high tower, and my deliverer; my shield, and [he] in whom I trust;
who (b) subdueth my people under me.



(b) He confesses that neither by his own authority, power or policy was his kingdom quiet, but by
the secret grace of God.
#BCV:Psalms 144:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 144:3>Psalms 144:3</verse></h3>



LORD, what [is] man, that thou (c) takest knowledge of him! [or] the son of man, that thou makest
account of him!



(c) To give to God just praise, is to confess ourselves to be unworthy of so excellent benefits, and
that he bestows them on us of his free mercy.
#BCV:Psalms 144:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 144:5>Psalms 144:5</verse></h3>




(d) Bow thy heavens, O LORD, and come down: touch the mountains, and they shall smoke.



(d) He desires God to continue his graces, and to send help for the present need.
#BCV:Psalms 144:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 144:6>Psalms 144:6</verse></h3>




(e) Cast forth lightning, and scatter them: shoot out thine arrows, and destroy them.



(e) By these manner of speeches he shows that all the hindrances in the world cannot prevent God's
power, which he apprehends by faith.
#BCV:Psalms 144:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 144:7>Psalms 144:7</verse></h3>



Send thine hand from above; rid me, and deliver me out of great (f) waters, from the hand of
strange children;

<page=1491>(f) That is, deliver me from the tumults of they who should be my people but are corrupt in their
judgment and enterprises, as though they were strangers.
#BCV:Psalms 144:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 144:8>Psalms 144:8</verse></h3>



Whose mouth speaketh vanity, and their right hand [is] a right hand (g) of falsehood.



(g) For though they shake hands, they do not keep their promises.
#BCV:Psalms 144:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 144:9>Psalms 144:9</verse></h3>



I will sing a (h) new song unto thee, O God: upon a psaltery [and] an instrument of ten strings will I
sing praises unto thee.



(h) That is, a rare and excellent song, as your great benefits deserve.
#BCV:Psalms 144:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 144:10>Psalms 144:10</verse></h3>



[It is he] that giveth salvation unto kings: who delivereth David his (i) servant from the hurtful sword.



(i) Though wicked kings are called God's servants, as was Cyrus in (<bcv=Isa 45:1>Isa 45:1</bcv>), for he uses them to
execute his judgments: yet David because of God's promise and they who rule godly are properly so
called, because they do not serve their own affections, but set forth God's glory.
#BCV:Psalms 144:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 144:12>Psalms 144:12</verse></h3>




(k) That our sons [may be] as plants grown up in their youth; [that] our daughters [may be] as corner
stones, polished [after] the similitude of a palace:



(k) He desires God to continue his benefits toward his people, counting the procreation of children
and their good education among the chiefest of God's benefits.
#BCV:Psalms 144:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 144:13>Psalms 144:13</verse></h3>



[That] our (l) garners [may be] full, affording all manner of store: [that] our sheep may bring forth
thousands and ten thousands in our streets:



(l) That the corners of our houses may be full of store for the great abundance of your blessings.
#BCV:Psalms 144:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 144:14>Psalms 144:14</verse></h3>



[That] our (m) oxen [may be] strong to labour; [that there be] no breaking in, nor going out; that
[there be] no complaining in our streets.

<page=1492>(m) He attributes not only the great conveniences, but even the least also to God's favour.
#BCV:Psalms 144:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 144:15>Psalms 144:15</verse></h3>



Happy [is that] people, that is (n) in such a case: [yea], happy [is that] people, whose God [is] the
LORD.



(n) And if God does not give to all his children all these blessings, yet he replaces them with better
things.

<h2>Psalms 145</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 145:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 145:1>Psalms 145:1</verse></h3>

<page=1493>"David's [Psalm] of praise." (a) I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever
and ever.



(a) He shows which sacrifices are pleasant and acceptable to God, even praise and thanksgiving and
seeing that God still continues his benefits toward us, we ought never to be weary in praising him for
the same.
#BCV:Psalms 145:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 145:3>Psalms 145:3</verse></h3>




(b) Great [is] the LORD, and greatly to be praised; and his greatness [is] unsearchable.



(b) By this he declares that all power is subject to God, and that no worldly promotion should
obscure God's glory.
#BCV:Psalms 145:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 145:4>Psalms 145:4</verse></h3>



One generation shall praise thy works to (c) another, and shall declare thy mighty acts.



(c) Even as the reason for man's creation and his preservation in this life is to praise God, therefore
he requires that not only we ourselves do this, but cause all others to do the same.
#BCV:Psalms 145:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 145:6>Psalms 145:6</verse></h3>



And [men] shall speak of the might of thy (d) terrible acts: and I will declare thy greatness.



(d) Of your terrible judgments against the wicked.
#BCV:Psalms 145:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 145:8>Psalms 145:8</verse></h3>



The LORD [is] gracious, and full of (e) compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.



(e) He describes after what sort God shows himself to all his creatures though our sins have
provoked his vengeance against all: that is, merciful not only in pardoning the sins of his elect, but in
doing good even to the reprobate, although they cannot feel the sweet comfort of the same.
#BCV:Psalms 145:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 145:11>Psalms 145:11</verse></h3>




(f) They shall speak of the glory of thy kingdom, and talk of thy power;

<page=1494>(f) The praise of your glory belongs in all your creatures and though the wicked would obscure the
same by their silence, yet the faithful are always mindful of the same.
#BCV:Psalms 145:12
<h3><verse=Psalms 145:12>Psalms 145:12</verse></h3>



To make known to the sons of men his (g) mighty acts, and the glorious majesty of his kingdom.



(g) He shows that all things are out of order, only but where God reigns.
#BCV:Psalms 145:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 145:14>Psalms 145:14</verse></h3>



The LORD upholdeth all that (h) fall, and raiseth up all [those that be] bowed down.



(h) Who being in misery and affliction would faint and fall away if God did not uphold them, and
therefore they should revere him who reigns in heaven and suffer themselves to be governed by him.
#BCV:Psalms 145:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 145:15>Psalms 145:15</verse></h3>



The eyes of (i) all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season.



(i) That is, as well of man as of beast.
#BCV:Psalms 145:17
<h3><verse=Psalms 145:17>Psalms 145:17</verse></h3>



The LORD [is] (k) righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works.



(k) He praises God, not only because he is beneficial to all his creatures, but also in that he justly
punishes the wicked, and mercifully examines his by the cross, giving them strength and delivering
them.
#BCV:Psalms 145:18
<h3><verse=Psalms 145:18>Psalms 145:18</verse></h3>



The LORD [is] nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in (l) truth.



(l) Which only belongs to the faithful: and this virtue is contrary to infidelity, doubting, impatience
and murmuring.
#BCV:Psalms 145:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 145:19>Psalms 145:19</verse></h3>



He will fulfil the (m) desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them.



(m) For they will ask or wish for nothing, but according to his will, (<bcv=1Jo 5:14>Jo1 5:14</bcv>).

#BCV:Psalms 145:21
<h3><verse=Psalms 145:21>Psalms 145:21</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 145:21
<h3><verse=psa 145:21>psa 145:21</verse></h3>



ever.



(n) That is, all men will be bound to praise him.

<h2>Psalms 146</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 146:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 146:1>Psalms 146:1</verse></h3>

<page=1496>Praise ye the LORD. Praise the LORD, O my (a) soul.



(a) He stirs up himself and all his affections to praise God.
#BCV:Psalms 146:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 146:3>Psalms 146:3</verse></h3>



Put not your trust in (b) princes, [nor] in the son of man, in whom [there is] no help.



(b) That God may have the whole praise: in which he forbids all vain confidence showing that by
nature we are more inclined to put our trust in creatures, than in God the Creator.
#BCV:Psalms 146:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 146:4>Psalms 146:4</verse></h3>



His breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth; in that very day his (c) thoughts perish.



(c) As their vain opinions, by which they flattered themselves and so imagined wicked enterprises.
#BCV:Psalms 146:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 146:6>Psalms 146:6</verse></h3>



Which made (d) heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein [is]: which keepeth truth for ever:



(d) He encourages the godly to trust only in the Lord, both in his power's ability to deliver them
from all danger, and for his promise sake, as his will is most ready to do it.
#BCV:Psalms 146:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 146:7>Psalms 146:7</verse></h3>



Which executeth judgment (e) for the oppressed: which giveth food to the hungry. The LORD
looseth the prisoners:



(e) Whose faith and patience for a while he tries but at length he punishes the adversaries, that he
may be known to be the judge of the world.
#BCV:Psalms 146:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 146:8>Psalms 146:8</verse></h3>



The LORD openeth [the eyes of] the blind: the LORD raiseth them that are bowed down: the
LORD (f) loveth the righteous:



(f) Though he visits them with affliction, hunger, imprisonment and such like, yet his fatherly love
and pity never fails them, yea rather to his these are signs of his love.
#BCV:Psalms 146:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 146:9>Psalms 146:9</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 146:9
<h3><verse=psa 146:9>psa 146:9</verse></h3>



wicked he turneth upside down.



(g) Meaning, all who are destitute of worldly means and help.
#BCV:Psalms 146:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 146:10>Psalms 146:10</verse></h3>



The LORD shall (h) reign for ever, [even] thy God, O Zion, unto all generations. Praise ye the
LORD.



(h) He assures the Church that God reigns forever for the preservation of the same.

<h2>Psalms 147</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 147:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 147:1>Psalms 147:1</verse></h3>

<page=1498>Praise ye the LORD: for [it is] good to sing praises unto our God; for [it is] (a) pleasant; [and] praise
is comely.



(a) He shows in which we ought to exercise ourselves continually, and to take our pastime: that is, in
praising God.
#BCV:Psalms 147:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 147:2>Psalms 147:2</verse></h3>



The LORD doth build up (b) Jerusalem: he gathereth together the outcasts of Israel.



(b) Because the Lord is the founder of the Church, it cannot be destroyed, though the members of
it are dispersed and seem as it were for a time to be cut off.
#BCV:Psalms 147:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 147:3>Psalms 147:3</verse></h3>



He healeth the (c) broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.



(c) With affliction, or sorrow for sin.
#BCV:Psalms 147:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 147:4>Psalms 147:4</verse></h3>



He (d) telleth the number of the stars; he calleth them all by [their] names.



(d) Though it seems incredible to man, that God should assemble his Church, being so dispersed,
yet nothing can be too hard to him that can number and name all the stars.
#BCV:Psalms 147:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 147:6>Psalms 147:6</verse></h3>



The LORD lifteth up the meek: he casteth the wicked down to the (e) ground.



(e) For the more high that the wicked climb the greater is their fall in the end.
#BCV:Psalms 147:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 147:8>Psalms 147:8</verse></h3>



Who (f) covereth the heaven with clouds, who prepareth rain for the earth, who maketh grass to
grow upon the mountains.



(f) He shows by the example of God's mighty power, goodness, and wisdom, that he can never lack
just opportunity to praise God.
#BCV:Psalms 147:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 147:9>Psalms 147:9</verse></h3>

#BCV:psa 147:9
<h3><verse=psa 147:9>psa 147:9</verse></h3>




(g) For their crying is as it were a confession of their need, which cannot be relieved, but by God
alone, then if God show himself mindful of the most contemptible souls, can he suffer them to die
with famine, whom he has assured of life everlasting?
#BCV:Psalms 147:10
<h3><verse=Psalms 147:10>Psalms 147:10</verse></h3>



He delighteth not in the (h) strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man.



(h) Though to use lawful means is both profitable and pleases God, yet to put our trust in them is to
defraud God of his honour.
#BCV:Psalms 147:13
<h3><verse=Psalms 147:13>Psalms 147:13</verse></h3>



For he hath (i) strengthened the bars of thy gates; he hath blessed thy children within thee.



(i) He not only furnishes his Church with all that is necessary but preserves also the same, and
makes it strong against all outward force.
#BCV:Psalms 147:15
<h3><verse=Psalms 147:15>Psalms 147:15</verse></h3>



He sendeth forth his (k) commandment [upon] earth: his word runneth very (l) swiftly.



(k) His secret working in all creatures is as a command to keep them in order and to give them
moving and force.



(l) For immediately and without resisting all things obey him.
#BCV:Psalms 147:19
<h3><verse=Psalms 147:19>Psalms 147:19</verse></h3>



He sheweth his (m) word unto Jacob, his statutes and his judgments unto Israel.



(m) As before he called God's secret working in all his creatures his word: so he means by this his
word the doctrine of life everlasting, which he has left to his Church as a precious treasure.
#BCV:Psalms 147:20
<h3><verse=Psalms 147:20>Psalms 147:20</verse></h3>



He hath not dealt so with any nation: and [as for his] judgments, they have not (n) known them.
Praise ye the LORD.



(n) The cause of this difference is God's free mercy, which has elected his in his Son Christ Jesus to
salvation: and his just judgment, by which he has appointed the reprobate to eternal damnation.

<h2>Psalms 148</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 148:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 148:2>Psalms 148:2</verse></h3>

<page=1500>Praise ye him, all (a) his angels: praise ye him, all his hosts.



(a) Because they are members of the same body, he sets them before our eyes, who are most willing
and by their prompt obedience teach us to do our duty.
#BCV:Psalms 148:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 148:3>Psalms 148:3</verse></h3>



Praise ye him, (b) sun and moon: praise him, all ye stars of light.



(b) In that God's glory shines in these insensible creatures, this their beauty is as a continual praising
of God.
#BCV:Psalms 148:4
<h3><verse=Psalms 148:4>Psalms 148:4</verse></h3>



Praise him, ye (c) heavens of heavens, and ye (d) waters that [be] above the heavens.



(c) Not that there are various heavens, but because of the spheres and of the situation of the fixed
stars and planets, he comprehends by this word the whole heavens.



(d) That is, the rain which is in the middle region of the air, which he here comprehends under the
name of the heavens.
#BCV:Psalms 148:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 148:7>Psalms 148:7</verse></h3>



Praise the LORD from the earth, ye (e) dragons, and all deeps:



(e) Meaning the great and monstrous fishes, as whales and such like.
#BCV:Psalms 148:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 148:8>Psalms 148:8</verse></h3>




(f) Fire, and hail; snow, and vapour; stormy wind fulfilling his word:



(f) Which come not by chance or fortune, but by God's appointed ordinance.
#BCV:Psalms 148:11
<h3><verse=Psalms 148:11>Psalms 148:11</verse></h3>




(g) Kings of the earth, and all people; princes, and all judges of the earth:

<page=1501>(g) For the greater gifts that any has received and the more high that one is preferred, the more
bound is he to praise God for the same: but neither high nor low condition or degree can be
exempted from this duty.
#BCV:Psalms 148:14
<h3><verse=Psalms 148:14>Psalms 148:14</verse></h3>



He also exalteth the (h) horn of his people, the praise of all his saints; [even] of the (i) children of
Israel, a people near unto him. Praise ye the LORD.



(h) That is, the dignity, power and glory of his Church.



(i) By reason of his covenant made with Abraham.

<h2>Psalms 149</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 149:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 149:1>Psalms 149:1</verse></h3>

<page=1502>Praise ye the LORD. Sing unto the LORD (a) a new song, [and] his praise in the congregation of
saints.



(a) For his rare and manifold benefits bestowed on his Church.
#BCV:Psalms 149:2
<h3><verse=Psalms 149:2>Psalms 149:2</verse></h3>



Let Israel rejoice in him that (b) made him: let the children of Zion be joyful in their (c) King.



(b) In that they were preferred before all other nations, it was a new creation, and therefore (<bcv=Psa 95:7>Psa 95:7</bcv>)
they were called the sheep of God's hands.



(c) For God as he is the creator of the soul and body, so will he that both two serve him, and that
his people be continually subject to him, as to their most lawful king.
#BCV:Psalms 149:5
<h3><verse=Psalms 149:5>Psalms 149:5</verse></h3>



Let the saints be joyful in glory: let them sing aloud upon their (d) beds.



(d) He alludes to that continual rest and quietness which they should have if they would suffer God
to rule them.
#BCV:Psalms 149:7
<h3><verse=Psalms 149:7>Psalms 149:7</verse></h3>




(e) To execute vengeance upon the heathen, [and] punishments upon the people;



(e) This is chiefly accomplished in the kingdom of Christ when God's people for just causes execute
God's judgments against his enemies and it gives no liberty to any to avenge their private injuries.
#BCV:Psalms 149:8
<h3><verse=Psalms 149:8>Psalms 149:8</verse></h3>



To bind (f) their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron;



(f) Not only the people, but the kings who were their enemies should be destroyed.
#BCV:Psalms 149:9
<h3><verse=Psalms 149:9>Psalms 149:9</verse></h3>



To execute upon them the judgment (g) written: this honour have all his saints. Praise ye the LORD.



(g) By this God binds the hands and minds of all his to enterprise no farther than he appoints.

<h2>Psalms 150</h2>

#BCV:Psalms 150:1
<h3><verse=Psalms 150:1>Psalms 150:1</verse></h3>

<page=1503>Praise ye the LORD. Praise God in his (a) sanctuary: praise him in the (b) firmament of his power.



(a) That is, in the heaven.



(b) For his wonderful power appears in the firmament, which in Hebrew is called a stretching out, or
spreading abroad, in which the mighty work of God shines.
#BCV:Psalms 150:3
<h3><verse=Psalms 150:3>Psalms 150:3</verse></h3>



Praise him with the sound of the (c) trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp.



(c) Exhorting the people only to rejoice in praising God, he makes mention of those instruments
which by God's commandment were appointed in the old law. (Ed.)
#BCV:Psalms 150:6
<h3><verse=Psalms 150:6>Psalms 150:6</verse></h3>



Let every thing that hath (d) breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD.



(d) He shows that all the order of nature is bound to this duty, and much more God's children, who
ought never to cease to praise him, till they are gathered into that kingdom, which he has prepared
for his, where they will sing everlasting praise.

<h1>Proverbs</h1>


<h2>Proverbs 1</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 1:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:1>Proverbs 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=1505>The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel;

The Argument - The wonderful love of God toward his Church is declared in this book: for as
much as the sum and effect of the whole Scriptures is here set forth in these brief sentences, which
partly contain doctrine, and partly manners, and also exhortations to both: of which the first nine
Chapters are as a preface full of grave sentences and deep mysteries, to assure the hearts of men to
the diligent reading of the parables that follow: which are left as a precious jewel to the Church, of
those three thousand parables mentioned in (<bcv=I Ki 4:32>Kg1 4:32</bcv>) and were gathered and committed to writing
by Solomon's servants and incited by him.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:2>Proverbs 1:2</verse></h3>



To know wisdom (a) and instruction; to perceive the words (b) of understanding;



(a) That is, what we ought to know and follow, and what we ought to refuse.



(b) Meaning, the word of God in which is the only true knowledge.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:3
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:3>Proverbs 1:3</verse></h3>



To receive the (c) instruction of wisdom, (d) justice, and judgment, and equity;



(c) To learn to submit ourselves to the correction of those who are wise.



(d) By living justly and rendering to every man that which belongs to him.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:4
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:4>Proverbs 1:4</verse></h3>



To give subtilty to the (e) simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion.



(e) To such as have no discretion to rule themselves.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:5
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:5>Proverbs 1:5</verse></h3>



A wise [man] will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of (f) understanding shall attain unto
wise counsels:

<page=1506>(f) As he shows that these parables containing the effect of religion concerning manners and
doctrine, belong to the simple people: so he declares that the same is also necessary for them who
are wise and learned.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:8
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:8>Proverbs 1:8</verse></h3>



My son, hear the instruction of thy (g) father, and forsake not the law of thy (h) mother:



(g) He speaks this in the Name of God, who is the universal Father of all creatures, or in the name
of the pastor of the Church, who is as a father.



(h) That is, of the Church, in which the faithful are begotten by the incorruptible seed of God's
word.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:10>Proverbs 1:10</verse></h3>



My son, (i) if sinners entice thee, consent thou not.



(i) That is, the wicked who do not have the fear of God.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:11
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:11>Proverbs 1:11</verse></h3>



If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for (k) blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without
cause:



(k) He speaks not only of the shedding of blood with hand, but of all crafty practises which tend to
the detriment of our neighbour.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:12
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:12>Proverbs 1:12</verse></h3>



Let us swallow them up alive as the (l) grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit:



(l) As the grave is never satisfied, so the malice of the wicked and their cruelty has no end.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:14
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:14>Proverbs 1:14</verse></h3>



Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one (m) purse:



(m) He shows how the wicked are allured to join together, because they have everyone part of the
spoil of the innocent.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:15
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:15>Proverbs 1:15</verse></h3>



My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their (n) path:

<page=1507>(n) That is, have nothing at all to do with them.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:18
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:18>Proverbs 1:18</verse></h3>



And they lay wait for their [own] blood; they lurk privily for (o) their [own] lives.



(o) He shows that there is no reason to move these wicked to spoil the innocent, aside from their
malice and cruelty.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:19
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:19>Proverbs 1:19</verse></h3>



So [are] the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; [which] taketh away (p) the life of the owners
thereof.



(p) By which he concludes that the covetous man is a murderer.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:20
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:20>Proverbs 1:20</verse></h3>




(q) Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the (r) streets:



(q) This wisdom is the eternal word of God.



(r) So that no one can pretend ignorance.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:22
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:22>Proverbs 1:22</verse></h3>



How long, ye (s) simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and
fools hate knowledge?



(s) Wisdom reproves three kinds of men, the foolish or simple who err out of ignorance, the
mockers who cannot stand to be taught, and the fools who are drowned in worldly lusts and hate the
knowledge of godliness.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:26
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:26>Proverbs 1:26</verse></h3>



I also will (t) laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh;



(t) This is spoken according to our capacity signifying that the wicked, who mock and jest at God's
word, will have the just reward of their mocking.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:27
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:27>Proverbs 1:27</verse></h3>



When (u) your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress
and anguish cometh upon you.

<page=1508>(u) That is, your destruction, which you feared.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:28
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:28>Proverbs 1:28</verse></h3>



Then shall they call upon me, but I will not answer; they shall seek me early, but they shall not (x)
find me:



(x) Because they sought not with an affection to God, but for ease of their own grief.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:30
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:30>Proverbs 1:30</verse></h3>



They would none of my counsel: they (y) despised all my reproof.



(y) Showing that without faith and obedience, we cannot call on God correctly.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:31
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:31>Proverbs 1:31</verse></h3>



Therefore shall they eat of the (z) fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices.



(z) They will feel what convenience their wicked life will give them.
#BCV:Proverbs 1:32
<h3><verse=Proverbs 1:32>Proverbs 1:32</verse></h3>



For (a) the turning away of the simple shall slay them, and the prosperity of fools shall destroy them.



(a) That is, the prosperity and sensuality in which they delight.

<h2>Proverbs 2</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 2:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 2:1>Proverbs 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=1509>My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and (a) hide my commandments with thee;



(a) That is, keep them in your heart.
#BCV:Proverbs 2:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 2:2>Proverbs 2:2</verse></h3>



So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, [and] apply (b) thine heart to understanding;



(b) If you give yourself to the true knowledge of God without hypocrisy.
#BCV:Proverbs 2:3
<h3><verse=Proverbs 2:3>Proverbs 2:3</verse></h3>



Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, [and] (c) liftest up thy voice for understanding;



(c) Meaning that we must seek the knowledge of God with care and diligence.
#BCV:Proverbs 2:4
<h3><verse=Proverbs 2:4>Proverbs 2:4</verse></h3>



If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as [for] hid (d) treasures;



(d) Showing that no labour must be spared.
#BCV:Proverbs 2:5
<h3><verse=Proverbs 2:5>Proverbs 2:5</verse></h3>



Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the (e) knowledge of God.



(e) This (he says) is the true wisdom to know and fear God.
#BCV:Proverbs 2:11
<h3><verse=Proverbs 2:11>Proverbs 2:11</verse></h3>




(f) Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee:



(f) The word of God will guide you, and teach you how to govern yourself.
#BCV:Proverbs 2:13
<h3><verse=Proverbs 2:13>Proverbs 2:13</verse></h3>



Who leave the (g) paths of uprightness, to walk in the ways of darkness;



(g) That is, the word of God, which is the only light, to follow their own fantasies which are
darkness.
#BCV:Proverbs 2:14
<h3><verse=Proverbs 2:14>Proverbs 2:14</verse></h3>

<page=1510>Who rejoice to do evil, [and] delight (h) in the frowardness of the wicked;



(h) When they see any given to evil as they are.
#BCV:Proverbs 2:16
<h3><verse=Proverbs 2:16>Proverbs 2:16</verse></h3>



To deliver thee from the strange (i) woman, [even] from the stranger [which] flattereth with her
words;



(i) Meaning, the wisdom which is the word of God, will preserve us from all vices: naming this vice
of whoredom to which man is most prone.
#BCV:Proverbs 2:17
<h3><verse=Proverbs 2:17>Proverbs 2:17</verse></h3>



Which forsaketh the (k) guide of her youth, and forgetteth the covenant of her God.



(k) That is, her husband, who is her head and guide to govern her, from whom she ought not to
depart, but remain in his subjection.
#BCV:Proverbs 2:18
<h3><verse=Proverbs 2:18>Proverbs 2:18</verse></h3>



For her (m) house inclineth unto death, and her paths unto (n) the dead.



(m) Her acquaintance with her spirits and they that haunt her.



(n) To them who are dead in body and soul.
#BCV:Proverbs 2:21
<h3><verse=Proverbs 2:21>Proverbs 2:21</verse></h3>



For the upright shall dwell in the (o) land, and the perfect shall remain in it.



(o) They will enjoy the temporal and spiritual promises of God, as the wicked will be void of them.

<h2>Proverbs 3</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 3:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 3:2>Proverbs 3:2</verse></h3>

<page=1511>For length of (a) days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee.



(a) Long life is the blessing of God which he gives to his, so far as it is expedient for them.
#BCV:Proverbs 3:3
<h3><verse=Proverbs 3:3>Proverbs 3:3</verse></h3>



Let not (b) mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy (c) neck; write them upon the table of
thine (d) heart:



(b) By mercy and truth he means the commandments of the first and second table, or else the mercy
and faithfulness that we ought to use toward our neighbours.



(c) Keep them as a precious jewel.



(d) Have them ever in remembrance.
#BCV:Proverbs 3:8
<h3><verse=Proverbs 3:8>Proverbs 3:8</verse></h3>



It shall be health to thy (e) navel, and marrow to thy bones.



(e) By this part he comprehends the whole body, as by health he means all the benefits promised in
the law both corporal and spiritual.
#BCV:Proverbs 3:9
<h3><verse=Proverbs 3:9>Proverbs 3:9</verse></h3>




(f) Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:



(f) As was commanded in the law, (<bcv=Exo 23:19>Exo 23:19</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 26:2> Deu 26:2</bcv>) and by this they acknowledged that God was
the giver of all things, and that they were ready to bestow all at his commandment.
#BCV:Proverbs 3:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 3:10>Proverbs 3:10</verse></h3>



So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, and thy presses shall (g) burst out with new wine.



(g) For the faithful distributor God gives in greater abundance.
#BCV:Proverbs 3:16
<h3><verse=Proverbs 3:16>Proverbs 3:16</verse></h3>



Length of days [is] in her right hand; (h) [and] in her left hand riches and honour.

<page=1512>(h) Meaning, that he seeks wisdom, that is, suffers himself to be governed by the Word of God, will
have all prosperity both corporal and spiritual.
#BCV:Proverbs 3:18
<h3><verse=Proverbs 3:18>Proverbs 3:18</verse></h3>



She [is] a tree (i) of life to them that lay hold upon her: and happy [is every one] that retaineth her.



(i) Which brings forth such fruit that they who eat of it have life and he alludes to the tree of life in
paradise.
#BCV:Proverbs 3:19
<h3><verse=Proverbs 3:19>Proverbs 3:19</verse></h3>



The LORD by wisdom hath (k) founded the earth; by understanding hath he established the heavens.



(k) By this he shows that this wisdom of which he speaks is everlasting, because it was before all
creatures and that all things even the whole world were made by it.
#BCV:Proverbs 3:25
<h3><verse=Proverbs 3:25>Proverbs 3:25</verse></h3>




(l) Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh.



(l) For when God destroys the wicked he will save his as he did Lot in Sodom.
#BCV:Proverbs 3:27
<h3><verse=Proverbs 3:27>Proverbs 3:27</verse></h3>



Withhold not good from (m) them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do
[it].



(m) Not only from them to whom the possession belongs but also you shall not keep it from them
who have need of the use of it.
#BCV:Proverbs 3:29
<h3><verse=Proverbs 3:29>Proverbs 3:29</verse></h3>



Devise not evil against thy neighbour, seeing he dwelleth (n) securely by thee.



(n) That is, puts his trust in you.
#BCV:Proverbs 3:31
<h3><verse=Proverbs 3:31>Proverbs 3:31</verse></h3>




(o) Envy thou not the oppressor, and choose none of his ways.



(o) Do not wish to be like him.
#BCV:Proverbs 3:32
<h3><verse=Proverbs 3:32>Proverbs 3:32</verse></h3>

#BCV:pro 3:32
<h3><verse=pro 3:32>pro 3:32</verse></h3>




(p) That is, his covenant and fatherly affection which is hid and secret from the world.
#BCV:Proverbs 3:34
<h3><verse=Proverbs 3:34>Proverbs 3:34</verse></h3>



Surely (q) he scorneth the scorners: but he giveth grace unto the lowly.



(q) He will show by his plagues that their scorn will turn to their own destruction, (<bcv=Pro 1:26>Pro 1:26</bcv>).

<h2>Proverbs 4</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 4:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 4:1>Proverbs 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=1514>Hear, ye children, the instruction of a (a) father, and attend to know understanding.



(a) He speaks this as a preacher and minister which is as a father to the people, (<bcv=Pro 2:8>Pro 2:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Proverbs 4:4
<h3><verse=Proverbs 4:4>Proverbs 4:4</verse></h3>



He (b) taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments,
and live.



(b) Meaning, David his father.
#BCV:Proverbs 4:7
<h3><verse=Proverbs 4:7>Proverbs 4:7</verse></h3>




(c) Wisdom [is] the principal thing; [therefore] get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.



(c) He shows that we must first begin with God's word, if we will that other things prosper with us,
contrary to the judgment of the world, which make it their last study, or else care not for it at all.
#BCV:Proverbs 4:11
<h3><verse=Proverbs 4:11>Proverbs 4:11</verse></h3>



I have (d) taught thee in the way of wisdom; I have led thee in right paths.



(d) Solomon declares what care his father had to bring him up in the true fear of God: for this was
David's protest.
#BCV:Proverbs 4:12
<h3><verse=Proverbs 4:12>Proverbs 4:12</verse></h3>



When thou goest, thy steps shall not be (e) straitened; and when thou runnest, thou shalt not
stumble.



(e) You will walk at liberty without offence.
#BCV:Proverbs 4:16
<h3><verse=Proverbs 4:16>Proverbs 4:16</verse></h3>



For they (f) sleep not, except they have done mischief; and their sleep is taken away, unless they
cause [some] to fall.



(f) Meaning that to do evil is more proper and natural to the wicked than to sleep, eat or drink.
#BCV:Proverbs 4:17
<h3><verse=Proverbs 4:17>Proverbs 4:17</verse></h3>

<page=1515>For they eat the bread of (g) wickedness, and drink the wine of violence.



(g) Gotten my wicked means and cruel oppression.
#BCV:Proverbs 4:18
<h3><verse=Proverbs 4:18>Proverbs 4:18</verse></h3>



But the path of the just [is] as the shining light, that (h) shineth more and more unto the perfect day.



(h) Signifying that the godly increase daily in knowledge and perfection, till they come to full
persecution, which is when the are joined to their head in the heavens.
#BCV:Proverbs 4:22
<h3><verse=Proverbs 4:22>Proverbs 4:22</verse></h3>



For they [are] life unto those that find them, and health to all their (i) flesh.



(i) That is, they will have health of body: under which all other blessings promised in the law are
contained.
#BCV:Proverbs 4:23
<h3><verse=Proverbs 4:23>Proverbs 4:23</verse></h3>



Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it [are] the issues of (k) life.



(k) For as the heart is either pure or corrupt, so is the whole course of man's life.
#BCV:Proverbs 4:26
<h3><verse=Proverbs 4:26>Proverbs 4:26</verse></h3>




(l) Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established.



(l) Keep a measure in all your doings.

<h2>Proverbs 5</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 5:3
<h3><verse=Proverbs 5:3>Proverbs 5:3</verse></h3>

<page=1516>For the lips (a) of a strange woman drop [as] an honeycomb, and her mouth [is] smoother than (b)
oil:



(a) That is, a harlot who gives herself to someone other than her husband.



(b) By oil and honey he means flattering and crafty enticements.
#BCV:Proverbs 5:5
<h3><verse=Proverbs 5:5>Proverbs 5:5</verse></h3>



Her (c) feet go down to death; her steps take hold on hell.



(c) All her doings lead to destruction.
#BCV:Proverbs 5:6
<h3><verse=Proverbs 5:6>Proverbs 5:6</verse></h3>



Lest thou shouldest ponder the path of life, her ways are (d) moveable, [that] thou canst not know
[them].



(d) She has always new means to allure to wickedness.
#BCV:Proverbs 5:9
<h3><verse=Proverbs 5:9>Proverbs 5:9</verse></h3>



Lest thou give thine (e) honour unto others, and thy years unto the cruel:



(e) That is, your strength and goods to her who will have no pity on you as is read of Samson and
the prodigal son.
#BCV:Proverbs 5:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 5:10>Proverbs 5:10</verse></h3>



Lest strangers be filled with thy wealth; and thy (f) labours [be] in the house of a stranger;



(f) The goods gotten by your travel.
#BCV:Proverbs 5:14
<h3><verse=Proverbs 5:14>Proverbs 5:14</verse></h3>



I was almost in all evil in the midst of the congregation and (g) assembly.



(g) Although I was faithfully instructed in the truth, yet I almost fell to utter shame and destruction
nonetheless, by good bringing up in the assembly of the godly.
#BCV:Proverbs 5:15
<h3><verse=Proverbs 5:15>Proverbs 5:15</verse></h3>

#BCV:pro 5:15
<h3><verse=pro 5:15>pro 5:15</verse></h3>




(h) He teaches us sobriety exhorting us to live of our own labours and to be beneficial to the godly
who want.
#BCV:Proverbs 5:17
<h3><verse=Proverbs 5:17>Proverbs 5:17</verse></h3>



Let them be only (i) thine own, and not strangers' with thee.



(i) Distribute them not to the wicked and infidels, but reserve them for yourself, your family and
them who are of the household of faith.
#BCV:Proverbs 5:18
<h3><verse=Proverbs 5:18>Proverbs 5:18</verse></h3>



Let thy (k) fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy (l) youth.



(k) Your children who will come from you in great abundance showing that God blesses marriage
and curses whoredom.



(l) Who you married in your youth.
#BCV:Proverbs 5:21
<h3><verse=Proverbs 5:21>Proverbs 5:21</verse></h3>



For the ways of man [are] before the (m) eyes of the LORD, and he pondereth all his goings.



(m) He declares that unless a man joins to his wife both in heart and in outward conversation, he
will not escape the judgments of God.
#BCV:Proverbs 5:23
<h3><verse=Proverbs 5:23>Proverbs 5:23</verse></h3>



He shall (n) die without instruction; and in the greatness of his folly he shall go astray.



(n) Because he will not give ear to God's word and be admonished.

<h2>Proverbs 6</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 6:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 6:2>Proverbs 6:2</verse></h3>

<page=1518>Thou art (a) snared with the words of thy mouth, thou art taken with the words of thy mouth.



(a) He forbids us not to become surety one for another, according to the rule of charity, but that we
consider for whom and after what sort, so that the creditor may not be defrauded.
#BCV:Proverbs 6:6
<h3><verse=Proverbs 6:6>Proverbs 6:6</verse></h3>



Go to the (b) ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise:



(b) If the word of God cannot instruct you, learn from the little ant to labour for yourself and not
to burden others.
#BCV:Proverbs 6:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 6:10>Proverbs 6:10</verse></h3>



[Yet] a little sleep, a little slumber, (c) a little folding of the hands to sleep:



(c) He expresses the nature of the sluggards, who though they sleep long, yet never have enough,
but always seek opportunity for more.
#BCV:Proverbs 6:11
<h3><verse=Proverbs 6:11>Proverbs 6:11</verse></h3>



So shall thy poverty come as one that (d) travelleth, and thy want as (e) an armed man.



(d) That is, suddenly, and when you do not look for it.



(e) It will come in such sort, as you are not able to resist it.
#BCV:Proverbs 6:12
<h3><verse=Proverbs 6:12>Proverbs 6:12</verse></h3>



A naughty person, (f) a wicked man, walketh with a froward mouth.



(f) He shows to what inconvenience the idle persons and sluggards come, by calling them unthrifty,
or the men of Belial, and slanderous.
#BCV:Proverbs 6:13
<h3><verse=Proverbs 6:13>Proverbs 6:13</verse></h3>



He winketh with his eyes, he speaketh with his feet, he (g) teacheth with his fingers;



(g) Thus all his gesture tends to wickedness,
#BCV:Proverbs 6:18
<h3><verse=Proverbs 6:18>Proverbs 6:18</verse></h3>

#BCV:pro 6:18
<h3><verse=pro 6:18>pro 6:18</verse></h3>




(h) Meaning, the raging affections, which carry a man away in such sort that he cannot tell what he
does.
#BCV:Proverbs 6:21
<h3><verse=Proverbs 6:21>Proverbs 6:21</verse></h3>



Bind them continually upon thine (i) heart, [and] tie them about thy neck.



(i) (<bcv=Pro 3:3>Pro 3:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Proverbs 6:23
<h3><verse=Proverbs 6:23>Proverbs 6:23</verse></h3>



For the (k) commandment [is] a lamp; and the law [is] light; and (l) reproofs of instruction [are] the
way of life:



(k) By the commandment, he means the word of God; and by the instruction, the preaching and
declaration of the same, which is committed to the Church.



(l) And reprehensions when the word is preached bring us to life.
#BCV:Proverbs 6:25
<h3><verse=Proverbs 6:25>Proverbs 6:25</verse></h3>



Lust not after her beauty in thy heart; neither let her take thee with her (m) eyelids.



(m) With her wanton looks and gesture.
#BCV:Proverbs 6:27
<h3><verse=Proverbs 6:27>Proverbs 6:27</verse></h3>




(n) Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?



(n) Meaning, that she will never cease till she has brought you to begging, and then seek your
destruction.
#BCV:Proverbs 6:30
<h3><verse=Proverbs 6:30>Proverbs 6:30</verse></h3>



[Men] do not (o) despise a thief, if he stealeth to satisfy his (p) soul when he is hungry;



(o) He does not reprove theft, showing that it is not as abominable as whoredom, for theft can be
restored, but adultery is permanent, and death by the law of God.



(p) Meaning, for necessity.
#BCV:Proverbs 6:33
<h3><verse=Proverbs 6:33>Proverbs 6:33</verse></h3>

#BCV:pro 6:33
<h3><verse=pro 6:33>pro 6:33</verse></h3>




(q) That is, death appointed by the Law.
#BCV:Proverbs 6:34
<h3><verse=Proverbs 6:34>Proverbs 6:34</verse></h3>



For jealousy [is] the rage of a man: therefore he will not (r) spare in the day of vengeance.



(r) He shows that man by nature seeks the death of he that has abused his wife, and so concludes
that neither God's law nor the law of nature admits any ransom for the adultery.

<h2>Proverbs 7</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 7:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 7:2>Proverbs 7:2</verse></h3>

<page=1521>Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the (a) apple of thy eye.



(a) By this diversity of words, he means that nothing should be so dear to us as the word of God,
nor that we look on anything more nor mind anything so much.
#BCV:Proverbs 7:6
<h3><verse=Proverbs 7:6>Proverbs 7:6</verse></h3>




(b) For at the window of my house I looked through my casement,



(b) Solomon uses this parable to declare their folly, who allow themselves to be abused by harlots.
#BCV:Proverbs 7:9
<h3><verse=Proverbs 7:9>Proverbs 7:9</verse></h3>



In the twilight, in the evening, in the (c) black and dark night:



(c) He shows that there was almost no one so impudent that they were not afraid to be seen, their
consciences accusing them and causing them to seek the night to cover their filthiness.
#BCV:Proverbs 7:11
<h3><verse=Proverbs 7:11>Proverbs 7:11</verse></h3>




(She (d) [is] loud and stubborn; her feet abide not in her house:



(d) He describes certain conditions, which are peculiar to harlots.
#BCV:Proverbs 7:14
<h3><verse=Proverbs 7:14>Proverbs 7:14</verse></h3>



[I have] (e) peace offerings with me; this (f) day have I paid my vows.



(e) Because in peace offerings a portion is returned to them that offered, she shows him that she has
meat at home to make good cheer with or else she would use some cloak of holiness till she had
gotten him in her snares.



(f) Which declares that harlots outwardly will seem holy and religious: both because they may better
deceive others, and also thinking to observe ceremonies and offerings to make satisfaction for their
sins.
#BCV:Proverbs 7:22
<h3><verse=Proverbs 7:22>Proverbs 7:22</verse></h3>



He goeth after her quickly, as an (g) ox goeth to the slaughter, or (h) as a fool to the correction of
the stocks;

<page=1522>(g) Which thinking he goes to the pasture goes willingly to his own destruction.



(h) Who goes cheerfully, not knowing that he will be chastised.
#BCV:Proverbs 7:26
<h3><verse=Proverbs 7:26>Proverbs 7:26</verse></h3>



For she hath cast down many wounded: yea, many (i) strong [men] have been slain by her.



(i) Neither wit nor strength can deliver them who fall into the hands of the harlot.

<h2>Proverbs 8</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 8:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 8:1>Proverbs 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=1523>Doth not (a) wisdom cry? and understanding put forth her voice?



(a) Solomon declares that man is the cause of his own perdition and that he cannot pretend
ignorance, for God calls all men by his word and his works to follow virtue and flee from vice.
#BCV:Proverbs 8:3
<h3><verse=Proverbs 8:3>Proverbs 8:3</verse></h3>



She crieth at (b) the gates, at the entry of the city, at the entrance of the doors.



(b) Where the people resorted most and which was the place of justice.
#BCV:Proverbs 8:9
<h3><verse=Proverbs 8:9>Proverbs 8:9</verse></h3>



They [are] all (c) plain to him that understandeth, and right to them that find knowledge.



(c) Meaning that the word of God is easy to all that have a desire for it and are not blinded by the
prince of this world.
#BCV:Proverbs 8:12
<h3><verse=Proverbs 8:12>Proverbs 8:12</verse></h3>



I wisdom dwell with (d) prudence, and find out knowledge and discretion.



(d) That is, unless a man has wisdom, which is the true knowledge of God, he can be neither a
prudent nor good counsellor.
#BCV:Proverbs 8:13
<h3><verse=Proverbs 8:13>Proverbs 8:13</verse></h3>



The fear of the LORD [is] to hate (e) evil: pride, and arrogance, and the evil way, and the perverse
mouth, do I hate.



(e) So that he who does not hate evil, does not fear God.
#BCV:Proverbs 8:15
<h3><verse=Proverbs 8:15>Proverbs 8:15</verse></h3>



By me (f) kings reign, and princes decree justice.



(f) By which he declares that honours, dignities or riches do not come from man's wisdom or
industry, but by the providence of God.
#BCV:Proverbs 8:17
<h3><verse=Proverbs 8:17>Proverbs 8:17</verse></h3>

<page=1524>I love them that love me; and those that seek me (g) early shall find me.



(g) That is, study the word of God diligently, and with a desire to profit.
#BCV:Proverbs 8:18
<h3><verse=Proverbs 8:18>Proverbs 8:18</verse></h3>



Riches and honour [are] with me; (h) durable riches and righteousness.



(h) Signifying that he chiefly means the spiritual treasures and heavenly riches.
#BCV:Proverbs 8:20
<h3><verse=Proverbs 8:20>Proverbs 8:20</verse></h3>



I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of (i) judgment:



(i) For there can be no true justice or judgment, which is not rejected by this wisdom.
#BCV:Proverbs 8:22
<h3><verse=Proverbs 8:22>Proverbs 8:22</verse></h3>



The LORD possessed me in the beginning of his way, (k) before his works of old.



(k) He declares by this the divinity and eternity of this wisdom, which he magnifies and praises
through this book: meaning by this the eternal Son of God, Jesus Christ our Saviour, whom John
calls the Word that was in the beginning (<bcv=John 1:1>Joh 1:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Proverbs 8:23
<h3><verse=Proverbs 8:23>Proverbs 8:23</verse></h3>




(l) I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was.



(l) He declares the eternity of the Son of God, who was before all time, and ever present with the
father.
#BCV:Proverbs 8:30
<h3><verse=Proverbs 8:30>Proverbs 8:30</verse></h3>



Then I was by him, (m) [as] one brought up [with him]: and I was daily [his] delight, rejoicing always
before him;



(m) Some read, a chief worker signifying that this wisdom, Christ Jesus, was equal with God his
father, and created, preserves and still works with him, as in (<bcv=John 5:17>Joh 5:17</bcv>).
#BCV:Proverbs 8:31
<h3><verse=Proverbs 8:31>Proverbs 8:31</verse></h3>




(n) Rejoicing in the habitable part of (o) his earth; and my delights [were] with the sons of men.



(n) By which is declared that the work of the creation was no pain, but a solace to the wisdom of
God.

<page=1525>(o) By earth he means men, which is the work of God in whom wisdom took pleasure: in that as for
man's sake the divine wisdom took man's nature, and dwelt among us, and filled us with unspeakable
treasures, and this is the solace and pastime of which is here spoken.

<h2>Proverbs 9</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 9:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 9:1>Proverbs 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=1526>Wisdom hath built her (a) house, she hath hewn out her (b) seven pillars:



(a) Christ has prepared him a Church.



(b) That is, many chief supports and principal parts of his Church, as were the patriarchs, prophets,
apostles, pastors and teachers.
#BCV:Proverbs 9:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 9:2>Proverbs 9:2</verse></h3>



She hath killed her beasts; she hath mixed her wine; she hath also (c) furnished her table.



(c) He compares wisdom with great princes who keep open house for all who come.
#BCV:Proverbs 9:3
<h3><verse=Proverbs 9:3>Proverbs 9:3</verse></h3>



She hath sent forth her (d) maidens: she crieth upon the highest places of the city,



(d) Meaning, true preachers, who are not infected with man's wisdom.
#BCV:Proverbs 9:4
<h3><verse=Proverbs 9:4>Proverbs 9:4</verse></h3>



Whoever [is] (e) simple, let him turn in here: [as for] him that lacketh understanding, she saith to him,



(e) He who knows his own ignorance, and is void of malice.
#BCV:Proverbs 9:5
<h3><verse=Proverbs 9:5>Proverbs 9:5</verse></h3>



Come, eat of my (f) bread, and drink of the wine [which] I have mixed.



(f) By meat and drink is meant the word of God, and the ministration of the sacraments, by which
God nourishes his servants in his house which is the Church.
#BCV:Proverbs 9:7
<h3><verse=Proverbs 9:7>Proverbs 9:7</verse></h3>



He that reproveth a scorner getteth to himself shame: and he that rebuketh a wicked [man getteth]
himself a (g) blot.



(g) For the wicked will contemn him and labour to defame him.
#BCV:Proverbs 9:8
<h3><verse=Proverbs 9:8>Proverbs 9:8</verse></h3>

<page=1527>Reprove not a (h) scorner, lest he shall hate thee: rebuke a wise man, and he will love thee.



(h) Meaning them who are incorrigible, which Christ calls dogs and swine: or he speaks this in
comparison, not that the wicked should not be rebuked, but he shows their malice, and the small
hope of the profit.
#BCV:Proverbs 9:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 9:10>Proverbs 9:10</verse></h3>



The fear of the LORD [is] the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the Holy One [is] (i)
understanding.



(i) He shows what true understanding is, to know the will of God in his word which is meant by
holy things.
#BCV:Proverbs 9:12
<h3><verse=Proverbs 9:12>Proverbs 9:12</verse></h3>



If thou art wise, thou shalt be wise for (k) thyself: but [if] thou scornest, thou alone shalt bear [it].



(k) You will have the chief profit and convenience of it.
#BCV:Proverbs 9:13
<h3><verse=Proverbs 9:13>Proverbs 9:13</verse></h3>



A (l) foolish woman [is] clamorous: [she is] simple, and knoweth nothing.



(l) By the foolish woman, some understand the wicked preachers, who counterfeit the word of God:
as appears in (<bcv=Pro 9:16>Pro 9:16</bcv>) which were the words of the true preachers as in (<bcv=Pro 9:4>Pro 9:4</bcv>) but their doctrine
is as stolen waters: meaning that they are men's traditions, which are more pleasant to the flesh than
the word of God, and therefore they themselves boast of it.

<h2>Proverbs 10</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 10:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 10:2>Proverbs 10:2</verse></h3>

<page=1528>Treasures of (a) wickedness profit nothing: but righteousness delivereth from death.



(a) That is, wickedly gotten.
#BCV:Proverbs 10:3
<h3><verse=Proverbs 10:3>Proverbs 10:3</verse></h3>



The LORD will (b) not allow the soul of the righteous to famish: but he casteth away the substance
of the wicked.



(b) Though he permits the just to want for a time, yet he will send him comfort in due season.
#BCV:Proverbs 10:6
<h3><verse=Proverbs 10:6>Proverbs 10:6</verse></h3>



Blessings [are] upon the head of the just: but violence covereth the mouth of (c) the wicked.



(c) When their wickedness is discovered, they will be as dumb and not know what to say.
#BCV:Proverbs 10:7
<h3><verse=Proverbs 10:7>Proverbs 10:7</verse></h3>



The memory of the just [is] blessed: but the name of the wicked shall (d) perish.



(d) Shall be vile and abhorred both by God and man, contrary to their own expectation, who think
to make their name immortal.
#BCV:Proverbs 10:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 10:10>Proverbs 10:10</verse></h3>



He that (e) winketh with the eye causeth sorrow: but a (f) prating fool shall fall.



(e) That bears a fair countenance and imagines mischief in his heart, as in (<bcv=Pro 6:13>Pro 6:13</bcv>).



(f) For the corruption of his heart is known by his talk.
#BCV:Proverbs 10:13
<h3><verse=Proverbs 10:13>Proverbs 10:13</verse></h3>



In the lips of him that hath understanding wisdom is found: but (g) a rod [is] for the back of him
that is void of understanding.



(g) That is, God will find him out to punish him.
#BCV:Proverbs 10:15
<h3><verse=Proverbs 10:15>Proverbs 10:15</verse></h3>

<page=1529>The rich man's wealth [is] his (h) strong city: the destruction of the poor [is] their poverty.



(h) And so makes him bold to do evil, while poverty bridles the poor from many evil things.
#BCV:Proverbs 10:21
<h3><verse=Proverbs 10:21>Proverbs 10:21</verse></h3>



The lips of the righteous (i) feed many: but fools die for lack of wisdom.



(i) For they speak truth and edify many by exhortations, admonition and counsel.
#BCV:Proverbs 10:22
<h3><verse=Proverbs 10:22>Proverbs 10:22</verse></h3>



The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth (k) no sorrow with it.



(k) Meaning that all worldly things bring care and sorrow, where as they who feel the blessings of
God have none.
#BCV:Proverbs 10:26
<h3><verse=Proverbs 10:26>Proverbs 10:26</verse></h3>



As vinegar to the teeth, and as smoke to the eyes, so [is] the sluggard to them that (l) send him.



(l) He is trouble and grief to him about any business.
#BCV:Proverbs 10:27
<h3><verse=Proverbs 10:27>Proverbs 10:27</verse></h3>



The fear of the LORD prolongeth days: but the years of the wicked (m) shall be shortened.



(m) The time of their prosperity will be short because of their great fall, though they seem to live
long.
#BCV:Proverbs 10:30
<h3><verse=Proverbs 10:30>Proverbs 10:30</verse></h3>



The righteous shall (n) never be removed: but the wicked shall not inhabit the earth.



(n) They enjoy in this life by faith and hope, their everlasting life.

<h2>Proverbs 11</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 11:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:1>Proverbs 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=1530>A false (a) balance [is] abomination to the LORD: but a just weight [is] his delight.



(a) Under this word he condemns all false weights, measures and deceit.
#BCV:Proverbs 11:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:2>Proverbs 11:2</verse></h3>



[When] pride cometh, then cometh (b) shame: but with the lowly [is] wisdom.



(b) When man so gets himself, and thinks to be exalted above his calling then God brings him to
confusion.
#BCV:Proverbs 11:8
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:8>Proverbs 11:8</verse></h3>



The righteous is delivered out of trouble, and the wicked cometh in his (c) stead.



(c) That is, will enter into trouble.
#BCV:Proverbs 11:9
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:9>Proverbs 11:9</verse></h3>



An (d) hypocrite with [his] mouth destroyeth his neighbour: but through knowledge shall the just be
delivered.



(d) A deceiver who pretends friendship, but privately is an enemy.
#BCV:Proverbs 11:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:10>Proverbs 11:10</verse></h3>



When the righteous prosper, the city (e) rejoiceth: and when the wicked perish, [there is] shouting.



(e) The country is blessed, where there are godly men, and they ought to rejoice when the wicked are
taken away.
#BCV:Proverbs 11:12
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:12>Proverbs 11:12</verse></h3>



He that is void of wisdom despiseth his neighbour: but a man of understanding (f) holdeth his
peace.



(f) Will not make light report of others.
#BCV:Proverbs 11:14
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:14>Proverbs 11:14</verse></h3>

<page=1531>Where no counsel [is], the people fall: but in the multitude of (g) counsellors [there is] safety.



(g) Where God gives store of men of wisdom and counsel.
#BCV:Proverbs 11:15
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:15>Proverbs 11:15</verse></h3>



He that is surety for a (h) stranger shall smart [for it]: and he (i) that hateth suretiship is secure.



(h) He who does not without judgment and consideration of the circumstances put himself in
danger, as in (<bcv=Pro 6:1>Pro 6:1</bcv>).



(i) He who does not co-sign loans for others is very wise.
#BCV:Proverbs 11:17
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:17>Proverbs 11:17</verse></h3>



The merciful man (k) doeth good to his own soul: but [he that is] cruel troubleth his own flesh.



(k) Rewards both himself and others.
#BCV:Proverbs 11:21
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:21>Proverbs 11:21</verse></h3>




(l) [Though] hand [join] in hand, the wicked shall not be unpunished: but the seed of the righteous
shall be delivered.



(l) Though they make many friends, or think themselves sure, yet they will not escape.
#BCV:Proverbs 11:23
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:23>Proverbs 11:23</verse></h3>



The desire of the righteous [is] only good: [but] the expectation of the wicked (m) [is] wrath.



(m) They can look for nothing but God's vengeance.
#BCV:Proverbs 11:24
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:24>Proverbs 11:24</verse></h3>



There is that scattereth, (n) and yet increaseth; and [there is] that withholdeth more (o) than is right,
but [it tendeth] to poverty.



(n) Meaning they who give liberally, whom God blesses.



(o) That is, the miser.
#BCV:Proverbs 11:26
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:26>Proverbs 11:26</verse></h3>



He that withholdeth grain, the people shall curse him: but blessing [shall be] upon the head of him
that (p) selleth [it].

<page=1532>(p) That provides for the use of them who are in need.
#BCV:Proverbs 11:29
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:29>Proverbs 11:29</verse></h3>



He that troubleth his own (q) house shall inherit the wind: and the fool [shall be] (r) servant to the
wise of heart.



(q) The covetous men who spare their riches to the hinderance of their families, will be deprived of
it miserably.



(r) For though the wicked are rich, yet they are only slaves to the godly, who are the true possessors
of the gifts of God.
#BCV:Proverbs 11:30
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:30>Proverbs 11:30</verse></h3>



The fruit of the righteous [is] a tree of life; and he that (s) winneth souls [is] wise.



(s) That is, brings them to the knowledge of God.

#BCV:Proverbs 11:31
<h3><verse=Proverbs 11:31>Proverbs 11:31</verse></h3>



Behold, the righteous shall be (t) recompensed upon the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.



(t) Will be punished as he deserves, (<bcv=1Pe 4:18>Pe1 4:18</bcv>).

<h2>Proverbs 12</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 12:3
<h3><verse=Proverbs 12:3>Proverbs 12:3</verse></h3>

<page=1533>A man shall not be established by wickedness: but the (a) root of the righteous shall not be moved.



(a) They are so grounded in the favour of God, that their root will prosper continually.
#BCV:Proverbs 12:6
<h3><verse=Proverbs 12:6>Proverbs 12:6</verse></h3>



The words of the wicked [are] to lie in wait for blood: but the mouth of the upright shall (b) deliver
them.



(b) As their conscience is upright, so will they be able to speak for themselves against their accusers.
#BCV:Proverbs 12:9
<h3><verse=Proverbs 12:9>Proverbs 12:9</verse></h3>



[He that is] despised, (c) and hath a servant, [is] better than he that honoureth himself, and is
destitute of bread.



(c) The poor man that is contemned and yet lives of his own travail.
#BCV:Proverbs 12:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 12:10>Proverbs 12:10</verse></h3>



A righteous [man] (d) regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked [are] cruel.



(d) Is merciful, even to the very beast who does him service.
#BCV:Proverbs 12:12
<h3><verse=Proverbs 12:12>Proverbs 12:12</verse></h3>



The wicked desireth the (e) net of evil [men]: but the (f) root of the righteous yieldeth [fruit].



(e) Continually imagines ways to harm others.



(f) Meaning, their heart within, which is upright, and does good to all.
#BCV:Proverbs 12:15
<h3><verse=Proverbs 12:15>Proverbs 12:15</verse></h3>



The way of a fool [is] (g) right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth to counsel [is] wise.



(g) He stands in his own conceit, and condemns all others in respect to himself.
#BCV:Proverbs 12:16
<h3><verse=Proverbs 12:16>Proverbs 12:16</verse></h3>



A fool's wrath is presently known: but (h) a prudent [man] covereth shame.

<page=1534>(h) Who bridles his affections.
#BCV:Proverbs 12:18
<h3><verse=Proverbs 12:18>Proverbs 12:18</verse></h3>



There is that speaketh like the piercings of (i) a sword: but the tongue of the wise [is] health.



(i) Which seek nothing more then to provoke others to anger.
#BCV:Proverbs 12:25
<h3><verse=Proverbs 12:25>Proverbs 12:25</verse></h3>



Heaviness in the heart of man weigheth it down: but a (k) good word maketh it glad.



(k) That is, words of comfort, or a cheerful mind which is declared by his words, rejoices a man, as a
covetous mind kills him.
#BCV:Proverbs 12:26
<h3><verse=Proverbs 12:26>Proverbs 12:26</verse></h3>



The righteous (l) [is] more excellent than his neighbour: but the way of the wicked seduceth them.



(l) That is, more liberal in giving.
#BCV:Proverbs 12:27
<h3><verse=Proverbs 12:27>Proverbs 12:27</verse></h3>



The slothful [man] roasteth not that which he (m) took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent
man [is] precious.



(m) Although he gets much by unlawful means, yet he will not spend it on himself.

<h2>Proverbs 13</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 13:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 13:2>Proverbs 13:2</verse></h3>

<page=1535>A man shall eat good by the fruit (a) of [his] mouth: but the soul of the transgressors [shall eat]
violence.



(a) If he uses his tongue to God's glory, and the profit of his neighbour, God will bless him.
#BCV:Proverbs 13:4
<h3><verse=Proverbs 13:4>Proverbs 13:4</verse></h3>



The soul of the sluggard (b) desireth, and [hath] nothing: but the soul of the diligent shall be made
fat.



(b) He always desires, but takes no pains to get anything.
#BCV:Proverbs 13:8
<h3><verse=Proverbs 13:8>Proverbs 13:8</verse></h3>



The ransom of a man's life [is] his riches: but the poor (c) heareth not rebuke.



(c) For his poverty, he is not able to escape the threatenings, which the cruel oppressors use against
him.
#BCV:Proverbs 13:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 13:10>Proverbs 13:10</verse></h3>



Only by pride (d) cometh contention: but with the well advised [is] wisdom.



(d) When as every man contends to have preeminence, and will not give place to another.
#BCV:Proverbs 13:11
<h3><verse=Proverbs 13:11>Proverbs 13:11</verse></h3>




(e) Wealth [gotten] by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth (f) by labour shall increase.



(e) That is, goods evil gotten.



(f) That is, with his own labour.
#BCV:Proverbs 13:13
<h3><verse=Proverbs 13:13>Proverbs 13:13</verse></h3>



Whoever despiseth (g) the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be
rewarded.



(g) Meaning the word of God, by which he is admonished of his duty.
#BCV:Proverbs 13:17
<h3><verse=Proverbs 13:17>Proverbs 13:17</verse></h3>

#BCV:pro 13:17
<h3><verse=pro 13:17>pro 13:17</verse></h3>




(h) Brings many inconveniences both to himself and to others.
#BCV:Proverbs 13:20
<h3><verse=Proverbs 13:20>Proverbs 13:20</verse></h3>



He that walketh with wise [men] shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be (i) destroyed.



(i) As he is partaker of their wickedness, and bears with their vices, so will he be punished alike as
they are.
#BCV:Proverbs 13:22
<h3><verse=Proverbs 13:22>Proverbs 13:22</verse></h3>



A good [man] leaveth an inheritance to his children's children: and the (k) wealth of the sinner [is]
laid up for the just.



(k) Read (<bcv=Job 27:16-17>Job 27:16-17</bcv>).
#BCV:Proverbs 13:23
<h3><verse=Proverbs 13:23>Proverbs 13:23</verse></h3>



Much food [is in] the fallow ground of the (l) poor: but there is [that is] destroyed for lack of
judgment.



(l) God blesses the labour of the poor, and consumes their goods who are negligent, because they
think they have enough.

<h2>Proverbs 14</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 14:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 14:1>Proverbs 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=1537>Every wise woman (a) buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.



(a) That is, takes pains to profit her family, and to do that which concerns her duty in her house.
#BCV:Proverbs 14:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 14:2>Proverbs 14:2</verse></h3>



He that walketh in his (b) uprightness feareth the LORD: but [he that is] perverse in his ways
despiseth him.



(b) That is, in uprightness of heart, and without hypocrisy.
#BCV:Proverbs 14:3
<h3><verse=Proverbs 14:3>Proverbs 14:3</verse></h3>



In the mouth of the foolish [is] a (c) rod of pride: but the lips of the wise shall preserve them.



(c) His proud tongue will cause him to be punished.
#BCV:Proverbs 14:4
<h3><verse=Proverbs 14:4>Proverbs 14:4</verse></h3>



Where no (d) oxen [are], the crib [is] clean: but much increase [is] by the strength of the ox.



(d) By the ox is meant labour, and by the crib the barn, meaning, without labour there is no profit.
#BCV:Proverbs 14:5
<h3><verse=Proverbs 14:5>Proverbs 14:5</verse></h3>



A faithful witness will not lie: but (e) a false witness will utter lies.



(e) For the maintenance of his own ambition, and not for God's glory, as Simon Magus.
#BCV:Proverbs 14:9
<h3><verse=Proverbs 14:9>Proverbs 14:9</verse></h3>



Fools make a mock at (f) sin: but among the righteous [there is] favour.



(f) Does not know the grievousness of it, nor God's judgments against the same.
#BCV:Proverbs 14:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 14:10>Proverbs 14:10</verse></h3>



The heart knoweth its own (g) bitterness; and a stranger doth not intermeddle with its joy.



(g) As a man's conscience is witness to his own grief, so another cannot feel the joy and comfort
which a man feels in himself.
#BCV:Proverbs 14:13
<h3><verse=Proverbs 14:13>Proverbs 14:13</verse></h3>

<page=1538>Even in laughter the heart is sorrowful; (h) and the end of that mirth [is] heaviness.



(h) He shows the allurement to sin, that it seems sweet, but the end of it is destruction.
#BCV:Proverbs 14:14
<h3><verse=Proverbs 14:14>Proverbs 14:14</verse></h3>



The backslider in heart (i) shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man [shall be satisfied] from
himself.



(i) He who forsakes God will be punished, and made weary of his sins, in which he delighted.
#BCV:Proverbs 14:19
<h3><verse=Proverbs 14:19>Proverbs 14:19</verse></h3>



The evil bow before the good; and the wicked (k) at the gates of the righteous.



(k) If this come not daily to pass, we must consider that it is because of our sins, which hinder
God's workings.
#BCV:Proverbs 14:28
<h3><verse=Proverbs 14:28>Proverbs 14:28</verse></h3>



In the multitude of (l) people [is] the king's honour: but in the lack of people [is] the destruction of
the prince.



(l) That is, the strength of a king stands in many people.
#BCV:Proverbs 14:33
<h3><verse=Proverbs 14:33>Proverbs 14:33</verse></h3>



Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but [that which is] (m) in the midst of
fools is made known.



(m) Forasmuch as they are convicted by it, and silenced.

<h2>Proverbs 15</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 15:6
<h3><verse=Proverbs 15:6>Proverbs 15:6</verse></h3>

<page=1539>In the house of the righteous [is] much treasure: but in the revenues of the wicked is (a) trouble.



(a) For though they have much yet it is full of trouble and care.
#BCV:Proverbs 15:8
<h3><verse=Proverbs 15:8>Proverbs 15:8</verse></h3>



The (b) sacrifice of the wicked [is] an abomination to the LORD: but the prayer of the upright [is]
his delight.



(b) That thing is abominable before God, which the wicked think to be most excellent, and by which
they think most to be accepted.
#BCV:Proverbs 15:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 15:10>Proverbs 15:10</verse></h3>



Correction [is] grievous to him that (c) forsaketh the way: [and] he that hateth reproof shall die.



(c) He who swears from the word of God, cannot stand to be admonished.
#BCV:Proverbs 15:11
<h3><verse=Proverbs 15:11>Proverbs 15:11</verse></h3>




(d) Hell and destruction [are] before the LORD: how much more then the hearts of the children of
men?



(d) There is nothing so deep or secret that can be hid from the eyes of God, much less man's
thoughts.
#BCV:Proverbs 15:19
<h3><verse=Proverbs 15:19>Proverbs 15:19</verse></h3>



The way of the slothful [man is] as an hedge of (e) thorns: but the way of the righteous [is] made
plain.



(e) That is, he always finds some hinderance or stay, and dares not go forward.
#BCV:Proverbs 15:22
<h3><verse=Proverbs 15:22>Proverbs 15:22</verse></h3>



Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but (f) in the multitude of counsellors they are
established.



(f) Read (<bcv=Pro 11:14>Pro 11:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Proverbs 15:23
<h3><verse=Proverbs 15:23>Proverbs 15:23</verse></h3>

#BCV:pro 15:23
<h3><verse=pro 15:23>pro 15:23</verse></h3>




(g) If we will that our talk be comfortable, we must wait for time and season.
#BCV:Proverbs 15:26
<h3><verse=Proverbs 15:26>Proverbs 15:26</verse></h3>



The thoughts of the wicked [are] an abomination to the LORD: but [the words] of the pure [are] (h)
pleasant words.



(h) That is, wholesome and profitable to the hearers.
#BCV:Proverbs 15:31
<h3><verse=Proverbs 15:31>Proverbs 15:31</verse></h3>



The ear that heareth the (i) reproof of life abideth among the wise.



(i) That suffers himself to be admonished by God's word, which brings life: and so amends.
#BCV:Proverbs 15:33
<h3><verse=Proverbs 15:33>Proverbs 15:33</verse></h3>



The fear of the LORD [is] the instruction of wisdom; and before honour [is] (k) humility.



(k) Meaning, that God exalts no one but them that are truly humbled.

<h2>Proverbs 16</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 16:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 16:1>Proverbs 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=1541>The (a) preparations of the heart belong to man, and the answer of the tongue, [are] from the
LORD.



(a) He derides the presumption of man, who dares to attribute anything to himself, as to prepare his
heart or such like, seeing that he is not able to speak a word unless God gives it to him.
#BCV:Proverbs 16:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 16:2>Proverbs 16:2</verse></h3>



All the ways of a man [are] (b) clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits.



(b) He shows by it that man flatters himself in his doings, calling that virtue, which God terms vice.
#BCV:Proverbs 16:4
<h3><verse=Proverbs 16:4>Proverbs 16:4</verse></h3>



The LORD hath made all [things] for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of (c) evil.



(c) So that the justice of God will appear to his glory, even in the destruction of the wicked.
#BCV:Proverbs 16:6
<h3><verse=Proverbs 16:6>Proverbs 16:6</verse></h3>



By (d) mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD [men] depart from evil.



(d) Their upright and repenting life will be a token that their sins are forgiven.
#BCV:Proverbs 16:9
<h3><verse=Proverbs 16:9>Proverbs 16:9</verse></h3>



A (e) man's heart deviseth his way: but the LORD directeth his steps.



(e) He shows the folly of man who thinks that his ways are in his own hand, and yet is not able to
move one foot unless God gives force.
#BCV:Proverbs 16:11
<h3><verse=Proverbs 16:11>Proverbs 16:11</verse></h3>



A just weight and balance [are] the LORD'S: all the weights of the bag [are] his (f) work.



(f) If they are true and just, they are God's work, and he delights in it, but otherwise if they are false,
they are the work of the devil, and to their condemnation that use them.
#BCV:Proverbs 16:12
<h3><verse=Proverbs 16:12>Proverbs 16:12</verse></h3>

<page=1542>[It is] an abomination to kings to commit wickedness: for the throne is established (g) by
righteousness.



(g) They are appointed by God to rule according to equity and justice.
#BCV:Proverbs 16:14
<h3><verse=Proverbs 16:14>Proverbs 16:14</verse></h3>



The wrath of a king [is as] (h) messengers of death: but a wise man will pacify it.



(h) That is, he finds many ways to execute his wrath.
#BCV:Proverbs 16:15
<h3><verse=Proverbs 16:15>Proverbs 16:15</verse></h3>



In the light of a king's countenance [is] life; and his favour [is] (i) as a cloud of the latter rain.



(i) Which is most comfortable to the dry ground.
#BCV:Proverbs 16:21
<h3><verse=Proverbs 16:21>Proverbs 16:21</verse></h3>



The wise in heart shall be called prudent: and the (k) sweetness of the lips increaseth learning.



(k) The sweet words of consolation which come from a godly heart.
#BCV:Proverbs 16:22
<h3><verse=Proverbs 16:22>Proverbs 16:22</verse></h3>



Understanding [is] a wellspring of life to him that hath it: but the (l) instruction of fools [is] folly.



(l) Either that which the wicked teach others, or else it is folly to teach them who are malicious.
#BCV:Proverbs 16:27
<h3><verse=Proverbs 16:27>Proverbs 16:27</verse></h3>



An ungodly man diggeth up evil: and in his lips [there is] as a (m) burning fire.



(m) For he consumes himself and others.
#BCV:Proverbs 16:30
<h3><verse=Proverbs 16:30>Proverbs 16:30</verse></h3>




(n) He shutteth his eyes to devise perverse things: moving his lips he bringeth evil to pass.



(n) With his whole endeavour he labours to bring his wickedness to pass.
#BCV:Proverbs 16:31
<h3><verse=Proverbs 16:31>Proverbs 16:31</verse></h3>



The hoary head [is] a crown of glory, [if] it is found in the way of (o) righteousness.

<page=1543>(o) That is, when it is joined with virtue, or else the older that the wicked are, the more they are to be
abhorred.
#BCV:Proverbs 16:33
<h3><verse=Proverbs 16:33>Proverbs 16:33</verse></h3>



The lot is cast into the lap; but its whole disposing [is] (p) from the LORD.



(p) So that there is nothing that ought to be attributed to fortune: for all things are determined in the
counsel of God which will come to pass.

<h2>Proverbs 17</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 17:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 17:1>Proverbs 17:1</verse></h3>

<page=1544>Better [is] a dry morsel, and quietness with it, than an house full of (a) sacrifices [with] strife.



(a) For where there were many sacrifices, there were many portions given to the people, with which
they feasted.
#BCV:Proverbs 17:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 17:2>Proverbs 17:2</verse></h3>



A wise servant shall have rule over a son that causeth shame, and shall have part of the (b)
inheritance among the brethren.



(b) That is, will be made governor over the children.
#BCV:Proverbs 17:8
<h3><verse=Proverbs 17:8>Proverbs 17:8</verse></h3>



A bribe [is as] a precious stone in the eyes of him that hath it: wherever it (c) turneth, it prospereth.



(c) The reward has great force to gain the hearts of men.
#BCV:Proverbs 17:9
<h3><verse=Proverbs 17:9>Proverbs 17:9</verse></h3>



He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth [very] (d)
friends.



(d) He that admonishes the prince of his fault makes him his enemy.
#BCV:Proverbs 17:11
<h3><verse=Proverbs 17:11>Proverbs 17:11</verse></h3>



An evil [man] seeketh only rebellion: therefore a cruel (e) messenger shall be sent against him.



(e) By the messenger is meant such means as God uses to punish the rebels.
#BCV:Proverbs 17:12
<h3><verse=Proverbs 17:12>Proverbs 17:12</verse></h3>



Let a bear robbed of her whelps meet a man, rather than (f) a fool in his folly.



(f) By which he means the wicked in his rage, who has no fear of God.
#BCV:Proverbs 17:16
<h3><verse=Proverbs 17:16>Proverbs 17:16</verse></h3>



Why [is there] a (g) price in the hand of a fool to get wisdom, seeing [he hath] no heart [to it]?

<page=1545>(g) What good does it do the wicked to be rich, seeing he does not set his mind to wisdom?
#BCV:Proverbs 17:17
<h3><verse=Proverbs 17:17>Proverbs 17:17</verse></h3>



A friend loveth at all times, and a (h) brother is born for adversity.



(h) So that he is more than a friend, even a brother that helps in time of adversity.
#BCV:Proverbs 17:18
<h3><verse=Proverbs 17:18>Proverbs 17:18</verse></h3>



A man void of understanding (i) striketh hands, [and] becometh surety in the presence of his friend.



(i) Read (<bcv=Pro 6:1>Pro 6:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Proverbs 17:19
<h3><verse=Proverbs 17:19>Proverbs 17:19</verse></h3>



He loveth transgression that loveth strife: [and] he that exalteth his (k) gate seeketh destruction.



(k) Lifts up himself above his degree.
#BCV:Proverbs 17:23
<h3><verse=Proverbs 17:23>Proverbs 17:23</verse></h3>



A wicked [man] taketh a bribe out of the (l) bosom to pervert the ways of judgment.



(l) That is, secretly and out of the bosom of the rich.
#BCV:Proverbs 17:24
<h3><verse=Proverbs 17:24>Proverbs 17:24</verse></h3>



Wisdom [is] before him that hath understanding; but the eyes of a fool [are] in the (m) ends of the
earth.



(m) That is, wander to and fro, and seek not after wisdom.
#BCV:Proverbs 17:26
<h3><verse=Proverbs 17:26>Proverbs 17:26</verse></h3>



Also to punish the just [is] not good, [nor] to strike princes (n) for equity.



(n) For their well doing.

<h2>Proverbs 18</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 18:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 18:1>Proverbs 18:1</verse></h3>

<page=1546>Through desire a man, having (a) separated himself, seeketh [and] intermeddleth with all wisdom.


(a) He who loves wisdom will separate himself from all impediments, and give himself wholly to
seek it.
#BCV:Proverbs 18:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 18:2>Proverbs 18:2</verse></h3>



A fool hath no delight in understanding, but that his heart may (b) reveal itself.



(b) That is, that he may talk licentiously of whatever comes to mind.
#BCV:Proverbs 18:3
<h3><verse=Proverbs 18:3>Proverbs 18:3</verse></h3>



When the wicked cometh, [then] cometh also (c) contempt, and with ignominy reproach.



(c) Meaning, such a one as condemns all others.
#BCV:Proverbs 18:4
<h3><verse=Proverbs 18:4>Proverbs 18:4</verse></h3>



The words of a man's mouth [are as] deep (d) waters, [and] the wellspring of wisdom [as] a flowing
brook.



(d) Which can never be drawn empty, but always bring profit.
#BCV:Proverbs 18:5
<h3><verse=Proverbs 18:5>Proverbs 18:5</verse></h3>



[It is] not good to (e) accept the person of the wicked, to overthrow the righteous in judgment.



(e) That is, to favour him and support him.
#BCV:Proverbs 18:8
<h3><verse=Proverbs 18:8>Proverbs 18:8</verse></h3>



The words of a talebearer [are] as wounds, and they go down into the (f) innermost parts of the
belly.



(f) They are soon believed and enter most deeply.
#BCV:Proverbs 18:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 18:10>Proverbs 18:10</verse></h3>



The name of the LORD [is] a strong tower: the righteous runneth (g) into it, and is safe.

<page=1547>(g) He shows the refuge of the godly against all trouble.
#BCV:Proverbs 18:14
<h3><verse=Proverbs 18:14>Proverbs 18:14</verse></h3>



The spirit of a man will sustain his infirmity; but (h) a wounded spirit who can bear?



(h) The mind can well bear the infirmity of the body, but when the spirit is wounded, it is hard to
sustain.
#BCV:Proverbs 18:16
<h3><verse=Proverbs 18:16>Proverbs 18:16</verse></h3>



A man's gift (i) maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.



(i) Gets him liberty to speak, and the favour of them that are esteemed.
#BCV:Proverbs 18:17
<h3><verse=Proverbs 18:17>Proverbs 18:17</verse></h3>




(k) [He that is] first in his own cause [seemeth] just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him.



(k) He who speaks first, is best heard from the wicked judge, but when his adversary enquires out
the matter it turns to his shame.
#BCV:Proverbs 18:18
<h3><verse=Proverbs 18:18>Proverbs 18:18</verse></h3>



The lot (l) causeth contentions to cease, and (m) parteth between the mighty.



(l) If a controversy cannot otherwise be decided, it is best to cast lots to know whose the thing will

<h1>be.</h1>




(m) Appeases their controversy, who are so stout that they cannot otherwise be pacified.
#BCV:Proverbs 18:19
<h3><verse=Proverbs 18:19>Proverbs 18:19</verse></h3>



A brother offended [is harder to be won] than a strong city: and [their] contentions [are] like the (n)
bars of a castle.



(n) Which for the strength of it will not bow or yield.
#BCV:Proverbs 18:21
<h3><verse=Proverbs 18:21>Proverbs 18:21</verse></h3>



Death and life [are] in the power of the tongue: and they that (o) love it shall eat the fruit of it.



(o) By the using the tongue well or evil, comes the fruit of it either good or bad.
#BCV:Proverbs 18:22
<h3><verse=Proverbs 18:22>Proverbs 18:22</verse></h3>

#BCV:pro 18:22
<h3><verse=pro 18:22>pro 18:22</verse></h3>




(p) He who is joined with a virtuous woman in marriage is blessed by the Lord, as in (<bcv=Pro 19:14>Pro 19:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Proverbs 18:24
<h3><verse=Proverbs 18:24>Proverbs 18:24</verse></h3>



A man [that hath] friends must show himself friendly: and there is a friend [that] sticketh closer (q)
than a brother.



(q) That is, often such are found who are more ready to do pleasure, than he that is more bound by
duty.

<h2>Proverbs 19</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 19:7
<h3><verse=Proverbs 19:7>Proverbs 19:7</verse></h3>

<page=1549>All the brethren of the poor do hate him: how much more do his friends go far from him? he
pursueth [them (a) with] words, [yet] they [are] lacking [to him].



(a) To have comfort from them.
#BCV:Proverbs 19:8
<h3><verse=Proverbs 19:8>Proverbs 19:8</verse></h3>



He that getteth wisdom (b) loveth his own soul: he that keepeth understanding shall find good.



(b) He that is upright in judgment finds favour from God.
#BCV:Proverbs 19:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 19:10>Proverbs 19:10</verse></h3>




(c) Delight is not proper for a fool; much less for a servant to have rule over princes.



(c) The free use of things are not to be permitted to him who cannot use them correctly.
#BCV:Proverbs 19:11
<h3><verse=Proverbs 19:11>Proverbs 19:11</verse></h3>



The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and [it is] his glory (d) to pass over a transgression.



(d) That is, to cover it by charity, and to do in it as may most serve to God's glory.
#BCV:Proverbs 19:13
<h3><verse=Proverbs 19:13>Proverbs 19:13</verse></h3>



A foolish son [is] the calamity of his father: and the contentions of a wife [are] a continual (e)
dropping.



(e) As rain that drops and rots the house.
#BCV:Proverbs 19:19
<h3><verse=Proverbs 19:19>Proverbs 19:19</verse></h3>



A man of great wrath shall suffer punishment: for if thou (f) deliver [him], yet thou must do it again.



(f) Though for a time he gives place to counsel, yet soon after will he give place to his raging
affections.
#BCV:Proverbs 19:21
<h3><verse=Proverbs 19:21>Proverbs 19:21</verse></h3>

<page=1550>[There are] many devices in a (g) man's heart; nevertheless the counsel of the LORD, that shall
stand.



(g) Man's device will not have success, unless God governs it, whose purpose is unchangeable.
#BCV:Proverbs 19:22
<h3><verse=Proverbs 19:22>Proverbs 19:22</verse></h3>



The desire of a man [is] his (h) kindness: and a poor man [is] better than a liar.



(h) That is, that he be honest: for the poor man who is honest is to be esteemed above the rich who
is not virtuous.
#BCV:Proverbs 19:25
<h3><verse=Proverbs 19:25>Proverbs 19:25</verse></h3>



Smite a scorner, and the (i) simple will beware: and reprove one that hath understanding, [and] he
will understand knowledge.



(i) That is, the simple and ignorant men learn when they see the wicked punished.
#BCV:Proverbs 19:28
<h3><verse=Proverbs 19:28>Proverbs 19:28</verse></h3>



An ungodly witness scorneth judgment: and the mouth of the wicked (k) devoureth iniquity.



(k) Takes a pleasure and delight in it, as gluttons and drunkards in delicate meats and drinks.

<h2>Proverbs 20</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 20:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 20:1>Proverbs 20:1</verse></h3>


<page=1551>(a) Wine [is] a mocker, strong drink [is] raging: and whoever is deceived by it is not wise.



(a) By wine here is meant him that is given to wine, and so by strong drink.
#BCV:Proverbs 20:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 20:2>Proverbs 20:2</verse></h3>



The fear of a king [is] as the roaring of a lion: [whoever] provoketh him to anger (b) sinneth [against]
his own soul.



(b) Puts his life in danger.
#BCV:Proverbs 20:5
<h3><verse=Proverbs 20:5>Proverbs 20:5</verse></h3>



Counsel in the heart of (c) man [is like] deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out.



(c) It is hard to find out: for it is as deep waters, whose bottom cannot be found: yet the wise man
will know a man either by his words or manners.
#BCV:Proverbs 20:8
<h3><verse=Proverbs 20:8>Proverbs 20:8</verse></h3>



A king that sitteth on the throne of judgment (d) scattereth away all evil with his eyes.



(d) Where righteous judgment is executed, there sin ceases, and vice dare not appear.
#BCV:Proverbs 20:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 20:10>Proverbs 20:10</verse></h3>



Differing weights, [and] differing measures, both of (e) them [are] alike abomination to the LORD.



(e) Read (<bcv=Pro 16:11>Pro 16:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Proverbs 20:16
<h3><verse=Proverbs 20:16>Proverbs 20:16</verse></h3>



Take his (f) garment that is surety [for] a stranger: and take a pledge of him for a strange woman.



(f) Teach him wit, that he cast not himself rashly into danger.
#BCV:Proverbs 20:25
<h3><verse=Proverbs 20:25>Proverbs 20:25</verse></h3>



[It is] a snare to the man [who] (g) devoureth [that which is] holy, and after vows to make enquiry.

<page=1552>(g) That is, to apply or take for his own use, that which was appointed to God's and then ask how he
may be exempted from the fault.
#BCV:Proverbs 20:26
<h3><verse=Proverbs 20:26>Proverbs 20:26</verse></h3>



A wise king scattereth the wicked, and bringeth the (h) wheel over them.



(h) Which was a kind of punishment then used.
#BCV:Proverbs 20:27
<h3><verse=Proverbs 20:27>Proverbs 20:27</verse></h3>



The (i) spirit of man [is] the lamp of the LORD, searching all the inward parts of the belly.



(i) The word of God gives life to man and causes us to see and try the secret of our dark hearts,



(<bcv=Heb 4:12>Heb 4:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Proverbs 20:30
<h3><verse=Proverbs 20:30>Proverbs 20:30</verse></h3>




(k) The blueness of a wound cleanseth away evil: so [do] stripes the inward parts of the belly.



(k) Sharp punishment that pierces even the inward parts is profitable for the wicked to bring them to
amendment.

<h2>Proverbs 21</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 21:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 21:1>Proverbs 21:1</verse></h3>

<page=1553>The (a) king's heart [is] in the hand of the LORD, [as] the rivers of water: he turneth it wherever he
will.



(a) Though kings seem to have all things at commandment, they are not able to bring their own
purposes to pass unless God has appointed: much less are the inferiors able.
#BCV:Proverbs 21:4
<h3><verse=Proverbs 21:4>Proverbs 21:4</verse></h3>



An high look, and a proud heart, [and] the (b) plowing of the wicked, [is] sin.



(b) That is, the thing by which he is guided or which he brings forth as the fruit of his work.
#BCV:Proverbs 21:5
<h3><verse=Proverbs 21:5>Proverbs 21:5</verse></h3>



The thoughts of the diligent [tend] only to plenteousness; but of (c) every one [that is] hasty only to
want.



(c) He who goes rashly about his business and without counsel.
#BCV:Proverbs 21:7
<h3><verse=Proverbs 21:7>Proverbs 21:7</verse></h3>



The (d) robbery of the wicked shall destroy them; because they refuse to do judgment.



(d) He means this chiefly of judges and princes who leave that calling, to which God has called them,
and impoverish their subjects to maintain their lusts.
#BCV:Proverbs 21:11
<h3><verse=Proverbs 21:11>Proverbs 21:11</verse></h3>




(e) When the scorner is punished, the simple is made wise: and when the wise is instructed, he
receiveth knowledge.



(e) Read (<bcv=Pro 19:25>Pro 19:25</bcv>).
#BCV:Proverbs 21:12
<h3><verse=Proverbs 21:12>Proverbs 21:12</verse></h3>



The righteous [man] wisely (f) considereth the house of the wicked: [but God] overthroweth the
wicked for [their] wickedness.



(f) Though the godly admonish them both by words and example of life, yet the wicked will not
amend, till God destroys them.
#BCV:Proverbs 21:14
<h3><verse=Proverbs 21:14>Proverbs 21:14</verse></h3>

<page=1554>A (g) gift in secret pacifieth anger: and a reward in the bosom strong wrath.



(g) To do a pleasure to the angry man pacifies him.
#BCV:Proverbs 21:18
<h3><verse=Proverbs 21:18>Proverbs 21:18</verse></h3>



The (h) wicked [shall be] a ransom for the righteous, and the transgressor for the upright.



(h) God will cause that to fall on their own heads, which they intended against the just by delivering
the just, and putting the wicked in their places.
#BCV:Proverbs 21:20
<h3><verse=Proverbs 21:20>Proverbs 21:20</verse></h3>



[There is] a treasure to be desired and (i) oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth
it up.



(i) Meaning, abundance of all things.
#BCV:Proverbs 21:22
<h3><verse=Proverbs 21:22>Proverbs 21:22</verse></h3>



A (k) wise [man] scaleth the city of the mighty, and casteth down the strength of its confidence.



(k) Wisdom overcomes strength and confidence in worldly things.
#BCV:Proverbs 21:25
<h3><verse=Proverbs 21:25>Proverbs 21:25</verse></h3>



The desire of the slothful (l) killeth him; for his hands refuse to labour.



(l) He thinks to live by wishing and desiring all things, but will make no effort to get anything.
#BCV:Proverbs 21:28
<h3><verse=Proverbs 21:28>Proverbs 21:28</verse></h3>



A false witness shall perish: but the man that heareth (m) speaketh constantly.



(m) He may boldly testify the truth that he has heard.

<h2>Proverbs 22</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 22:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 22:1>Proverbs 22:1</verse></h3>

<page=1555>A [good] name [is] rather to be chosen than great riches, [and] (a) loving favour rather than silver
and gold.



(a) Which comes by well doing.
#BCV:Proverbs 22:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 22:2>Proverbs 22:2</verse></h3>



The rich and poor (b) meet together: the LORD [is] the maker of them all.



(b) Live together, and have need the one of the other.
#BCV:Proverbs 22:3
<h3><verse=Proverbs 22:3>Proverbs 22:3</verse></h3>



A prudent [man] (c) foreseeth the evil, and hideth himself: but the simple pass on, and are punished.



(c) That is, the punishment, which is prepared for the wicked and flees to God for help.
#BCV:Proverbs 22:6
<h3><verse=Proverbs 22:6>Proverbs 22:6</verse></h3>



Train up a child (d) in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.



(d) Bring him up virtuously and he will continue so.
#BCV:Proverbs 22:8
<h3><verse=Proverbs 22:8>Proverbs 22:8</verse></h3>



He that soweth iniquity shall reap vanity: and the (e) rod of his anger shall fail.



(e) His authority by which he oppressed others, will be taken from him.
#BCV:Proverbs 22:9
<h3><verse=Proverbs 22:9>Proverbs 22:9</verse></h3>



He that hath a bountiful (f) eye shall be blessed; for he giveth of his bread to the poor.



(f) He that is merciful and liberal.
#BCV:Proverbs 22:11
<h3><verse=Proverbs 22:11>Proverbs 22:11</verse></h3>



He that loveth pureness of heart, [for] the grace of his lips the (g) king [shall be] his friend.



(g) He shows that princes should use their familiarity, whose conscience is good, and their talk wise
and godly.
#BCV:Proverbs 22:12
<h3><verse=Proverbs 22:12>Proverbs 22:12</verse></h3>

<page=1556>The eyes of the LORD preserve (h) knowledge, and he overthroweth the words of the transgressor.



(h) Favour them that love knowledge.
#BCV:Proverbs 22:13
<h3><verse=Proverbs 22:13>Proverbs 22:13</verse></h3>



The slothful [man] saith, (i) [There is] a lion outside, I shall be slain in the streets.



(i) He derides them that invent vain excuses, because they would not do their duty.
#BCV:Proverbs 22:14
<h3><verse=Proverbs 22:14>Proverbs 22:14</verse></h3>



The mouth of strange women [is] a deep pit: he that is abhorred by the LORD (k) shall fall in it.



(k) So God punishes one sin by another, when he suffers the wicked to fall into the acquaintance of
a harlot.
#BCV:Proverbs 22:15
<h3><verse=Proverbs 22:15>Proverbs 22:15</verse></h3>



Foolishness [is] bound (l) in the heart of a child; [but] the rod of correction shall drive it far from
him.



(l) He is naturally given to it.
#BCV:Proverbs 22:19
<h3><verse=Proverbs 22:19>Proverbs 22:19</verse></h3>



That thy trust may be in (m) the LORD, I have made known to thee this day, even to thee.



(m) He shows what the end of wisdom is: that is, to direct us to the Lord.
#BCV:Proverbs 22:20
<h3><verse=Proverbs 22:20>Proverbs 22:20</verse></h3>



Have not I written to thee (n) excellent things in counsels and knowledge,



(n) That is, various times.
#BCV:Proverbs 22:24
<h3><verse=Proverbs 22:24>Proverbs 22:24</verse></h3>



Make (o) no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go:



(o) Have nothing to do with him that is not able to rule his affections: for he would hurt you by his
evil conversation.
#BCV:Proverbs 22:26
<h3><verse=Proverbs 22:26>Proverbs 22:26</verse></h3>

<page=1557>Be not thou [one] of them that (p) strike hands, [or] of them that are sureties for debts.



(p) Who rashly put themselves in danger for others, as in (<bcv=Pro 6:2>Pro 6:2</bcv>).

<h2>Proverbs 23</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 23:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:1>Proverbs 23:1</verse></h3>

<page=1558>When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, (a) consider diligently what [is] before thee:



(a) Eat with sobriety.
#BCV:Proverbs 23:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:2>Proverbs 23:2</verse></h3>




(b) And put a knife to thy throat, if thou [art] a man given to appetite.



(b) Bridle your appetite, as if by force and violence.
#BCV:Proverbs 23:3
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:3>Proverbs 23:3</verse></h3>



Be not desirous of his dainties: (c) for they [are] deceitful food.



(c) For often the rich when they bid their inferiors to their tables, it is not for the love they bear
them, but for their own secret purposes.
#BCV:Proverbs 23:4
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:4>Proverbs 23:4</verse></h3>



Labour not to be rich: cease from thy own (d) wisdom.



(d) Bestow not the gifts that God has given you, to get worldly riches.
#BCV:Proverbs 23:6
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:6>Proverbs 23:6</verse></h3>



Eat thou not the bread of [him that hath] an (e) evil eye, neither desire thou his delicacies:



(e) That is, covetous, as contrary a good eye is taken for liberal as in (<bcv=Pro 22:9>Pro 22:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Proverbs 23:8
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:8>Proverbs 23:8</verse></h3>



The (f) morsel [which] thou hast eaten shalt thou vomit up, and lose thy sweet words.



(f) He will not cease till he has done you some harm, and his flattering words will come to no use.
#BCV:Proverbs 23:14
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:14>Proverbs 23:14</verse></h3>



Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from (g) hell.



(g) That is, from destruction.
#BCV:Proverbs 23:18
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:18>Proverbs 23:18</verse></h3>

<page=1559>For surely there is an end; (h) and thy expectation shall not be cut off.



(h) The prosperity of the wicked will not continue.
#BCV:Proverbs 23:19
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:19>Proverbs 23:19</verse></h3>



Hear thou, my son, and be wise, and guide thy heart in the (i) way.



(i) In the observation of God's commandments.
#BCV:Proverbs 23:23
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:23>Proverbs 23:23</verse></h3>



Buy (k) the truth, and sell [it] not; [also] wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.



(k) Spare no cost for truths sake, neither depart from it for any gain.
#BCV:Proverbs 23:26
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:26>Proverbs 23:26</verse></h3>



My son, give me (l) thy heart, and let thy eyes observe my ways.



(l) Give yourself wholly to wisdom.
#BCV:Proverbs 23:28
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:28>Proverbs 23:28</verse></h3>



She also lieth in wait as [for] a prey, (m) and increaseth the transgressors among men.



(m) She seduces many and causes them to offend God.
#BCV:Proverbs 23:30
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:30>Proverbs 23:30</verse></h3>



They that tarry long at the wine; they that go (n) to seek mixed wine.



(n) Who by art make wine stronger and more pleasant.
#BCV:Proverbs 23:33
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:33>Proverbs 23:33</verse></h3>



Thy (o) eyes shall behold strange women, and thy heart shall utter perverse things.



(o) That is, drunkenness will bring you to whoredom.
#BCV:Proverbs 23:34
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:34>Proverbs 23:34</verse></h3>

<page=1560>And thou shalt be as he that lieth down in the midst of the (p) sea, or as he that lieth upon the top
of a mast.



(p) In such great danger will you be.
#BCV:Proverbs 23:35
<h3><verse=Proverbs 23:35>Proverbs 23:35</verse></h3>



They have stricken me, [shalt thou say, and] I was not sick; they have beaten me, [and] I felt [it] not:
when shall I awake? I will (q) seek it yet again.



(q) Though drunkenness makes them more insensible then beasts, yet they can not refrain.

<h2>Proverbs 24</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 24:7
<h3><verse=Proverbs 24:7>Proverbs 24:7</verse></h3>

<page=1561>Wisdom [is] too high for a fool: he openeth not his mouth in the (a) gate.



(a) In the place where wisdom should be shown.
#BCV:Proverbs 24:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 24:10>Proverbs 24:10</verse></h3>



[If] thou (b) faintest in the day of adversity, thy strength [is] small.



(b) Man has no trial of his strength till he is in trouble.
#BCV:Proverbs 24:11
<h3><verse=Proverbs 24:11>Proverbs 24:11</verse></h3>



If thou refraineth to deliver [them that are] drawn to (c) death, and [those that are] ready to be slain;



(c) No one can be excused, if he does not help the innocent when he is in danger.
#BCV:Proverbs 24:13
<h3><verse=Proverbs 24:13>Proverbs 24:13</verse></h3>



My son, eat thou (d) honey, because [it is] good; and the honeycomb, [which is] sweet to thy taste:



(d) As honey is sweet and pleasant to the taste, so wisdom is to the soul.
#BCV:Proverbs 24:16
<h3><verse=Proverbs 24:16>Proverbs 24:16</verse></h3>



For a just [man] (e) falleth seven times, and riseth again: but the wicked shall fall into mischief.



(e) He is subject to many perils, but God delivers him.
#BCV:Proverbs 24:18
<h3><verse=Proverbs 24:18>Proverbs 24:18</verse></h3>



Lest the LORD see [it], and it displease him, and he turn away his wrath (f) from him.



(f) To be avenged on you.
#BCV:Proverbs 24:22
<h3><verse=Proverbs 24:22>Proverbs 24:22</verse></h3>



For their calamity shall rise suddenly; and who knoweth the ruin of them (g) both?



(g) Meaning, either of the wicked and seditious, as in (<bcv=Pro 24:19>Pro 24:19</bcv>,<bcv=Pro 24:21> Pro 24:21</bcv>) or of them who do not
fear God or obey their king.
#BCV:Proverbs 24:27
<h3><verse=Proverbs 24:27>Proverbs 24:27</verse></h3>

<page=1562>Prepare thy work outside, and make it fit for thyself in the field; (h) and afterwards build thy house.



(h) Be sure of the means how to compass it, before you take any enterprise in hand.
#BCV:Proverbs 24:29
<h3><verse=Proverbs 24:29>Proverbs 24:29</verse></h3>



Say not, I will do so to him as he hath done to me: I (i) will render to the man according to his work.



(i) He shows what is the nature of the wicked, to revenge wrong for wrong.
#BCV:Proverbs 24:32
<h3><verse=Proverbs 24:32>Proverbs 24:32</verse></h3>



Then I saw, [and] considered [it] well: I looked upon [it, and] received (k) instruction.



(k) That I might learn by another man's fault.
#BCV:Proverbs 24:33
<h3><verse=Proverbs 24:33>Proverbs 24:33</verse></h3>



[Yet] a little sleep, (l) a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep:



(l) See<bcv=Pro 6:10> Pro 6:10</bcv>

<h2>Proverbs 25</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 25:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 25:1>Proverbs 25:1</verse></h3>

<page=1563>These [are] also proverbs of Solomon, which the (a) men of Hezekiah king of Judah (b) copied out.



(a) Whom Hezekiah appointed for this purpose.



(b) That is, gathered out of various books of Solomon.
#BCV:Proverbs 25:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 25:2>Proverbs 25:2</verse></h3>



[It is] the glory of God to (c) conceal a thing: but the honour of (d) kings [is] to search out a matter.



(c) God does not reveal the cause of his judgments to man.



(d) Because the king rules by the revealed word of God, the cause of his doings must appear, and
therefore he must use diligence in trying causes.
#BCV:Proverbs 25:3
<h3><verse=Proverbs 25:3>Proverbs 25:3</verse></h3>



The heaven for height, and the earth for depth, and the heart of (e) kings [is] unsearchable.



(e) He shows that it is too hard for man to attain the reason of all the secret doings of the king,
even when he is upright and does his duty.
#BCV:Proverbs 25:4
<h3><verse=Proverbs 25:4>Proverbs 25:4</verse></h3>



Take away the (f) dross from the silver, and there shall come forth a vessel for the refiner.



(f) When vice is removed from a king, he is a meet vessel for the Lord's use.
#BCV:Proverbs 25:5
<h3><verse=Proverbs 25:5>Proverbs 25:5</verse></h3>



Take (g) away the wicked [from] before the king, and his throne shall be established in righteousness.



(g) It is not enough that he is pure himself, but that he put away others who are corrupted.
#BCV:Proverbs 25:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 25:10>Proverbs 25:10</verse></h3>



Lest he that heareth [it] put thee to shame, and thy infamy (h) turn not away.



(h) Lest while you think by this means to have an end of the matter, it put you to further trouble.
#BCV:Proverbs 25:13
<h3><verse=Proverbs 25:13>Proverbs 25:13</verse></h3>

<page=1564>As the cold of snow (i) in the time of harvest, [so is] a faithful messenger to them that send him: for
he refresheth the soul of his masters.



(i) In the time of great heat, when men desire cold.
#BCV:Proverbs 25:14
<h3><verse=Proverbs 25:14>Proverbs 25:14</verse></h3>



Whoever boasteth himself of a false gift [is like] (k) clouds and wind without rain.



(k) Which have an outward appearance, and are nothing within.
#BCV:Proverbs 25:15
<h3><verse=Proverbs 25:15>Proverbs 25:15</verse></h3>



By long (l) forbearing is a prince persuaded, and a soft tongue breaketh the (m) bone.



(l) By not creating opportunity to provoke him further.



(m) That is, the heart that is bent to anger, as in (<bcv=Pro 15:1>Pro 15:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Proverbs 25:16
<h3><verse=Proverbs 25:16>Proverbs 25:16</verse></h3>



Hast thou found honey? eat so much as is (n) sufficient for thee, lest thou be filled with it, and vomit
it.



(n) Use moderately the pleasures of this world.
#BCV:Proverbs 25:20
<h3><verse=Proverbs 25:20>Proverbs 25:20</verse></h3>



[As] he that taketh away a garment in cold weather, [and as] vinegar upon (o) soda, so [is] he that
singeth songs to an heavy heart.



(o) Which melts it, and consumes it.
#BCV:Proverbs 25:22
<h3><verse=Proverbs 25:22>Proverbs 25:22</verse></h3>



For thou shalt heap (p) coals of fire upon his head, and the LORD shall reward thee.



(p) You will, as if by force, overcome him, in so much that his own conscience will move him to
acknowledge the benefits, and his heart will be inflamed.
#BCV:Proverbs 25:28
<h3><verse=Proverbs 25:28>Proverbs 25:28</verse></h3>



He that [hath] no rule over his own spirit [is like] a city [that is] (q) broken down, [and] without walls.



(q) And so is in extreme danger.

<h2>Proverbs 26</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 26:4
<h3><verse=Proverbs 26:4>Proverbs 26:4</verse></h3>

<page=1565>Answer not a fool (a) according to his folly, lest thou also be like him.



(a) Consent not to him in his doings.
#BCV:Proverbs 26:5
<h3><verse=Proverbs 26:5>Proverbs 26:5</verse></h3>



Answer a fool (b) according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.



(b) Reprove him as the matter requires.
#BCV:Proverbs 26:6
<h3><verse=Proverbs 26:6>Proverbs 26:6</verse></h3>



He that sendeth a message by the hand of a fool cutteth off (c) the feet, (d) [and] drinketh damage.



(c) That is, of the messenger whom he sends.



(d) That is, receives damage by it.
#BCV:Proverbs 26:9
<h3><verse=Proverbs 26:9>Proverbs 26:9</verse></h3>



[As] a thorn goeth (e) up into the hand of a drunkard, so [is] a parable in the mouth of fools.



(e) By which he hurts both himself and others.
#BCV:Proverbs 26:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 26:10>Proverbs 26:10</verse></h3>




(f) The great [God] that formed all [things] both rewardeth the fool, and rewardeth transgressors.



(f) Meaning God.
#BCV:Proverbs 26:12
<h3><verse=Proverbs 26:12>Proverbs 26:12</verse></h3>



Seest thou a man wise in his own conceit? [there is] (g) more hope of a fool than of him.



(g) For the fool would rather be counselled than he: also the fool sins out of ignorance, and the
other out of malice.
#BCV:Proverbs 26:13
<h3><verse=Proverbs 26:13>Proverbs 26:13</verse></h3>



The slothful [man] saith, (h) [There is] a lion in the way; a lion [is] in the streets.

<page=1566>(h) Read (Pro 22:13).
#BCV:Proverbs 26:19
<h3><verse=Proverbs 26:19>Proverbs 26:19</verse></h3>



So [is] the man [that] deceiveth (i) his neighbour, and saith, Am not I in sport?



(i) Who disguises himself to be that which he is not.
#BCV:Proverbs 26:23
<h3><verse=Proverbs 26:23>Proverbs 26:23</verse></h3>



Burning lips and (k) a wicked heart [are like] a potsherd covered with silver dross.



(k) They will soon break out and utter themselves.
#BCV:Proverbs 26:25
<h3><verse=Proverbs 26:25>Proverbs 26:25</verse></h3>



When he speaketh kindly, believe him not: for [there are] (l) seven abominations in his heart.



(l) Meaning many: he uses a certain number for the uncertain.
#BCV:Proverbs 26:26
<h3><verse=Proverbs 26:26>Proverbs 26:26</verse></h3>



[Whose] hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness shall be revealed before the [whole] (m)
congregation.



(m) In the assembly of the godly.

<h2>Proverbs 27</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 27:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 27:1>Proverbs 27:1</verse></h3>

<page=1567>Boast not thyself of to (a) morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.



(a) Do not delay the time, but take the opportunity when it is offered.
#BCV:Proverbs 27:4
<h3><verse=Proverbs 27:4>Proverbs 27:4</verse></h3>



Wrath [is] cruel, and anger [is] outrageous; but who [is] able to stand before (b) envy?



(b) For the envious are obstinate, and cannot be reconciled.
#BCV:Proverbs 27:6
<h3><verse=Proverbs 27:6>Proverbs 27:6</verse></h3>



Faithful [are] the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy [are] (c) deceitful.



(c) They are flattering and seem friendly.
#BCV:Proverbs 27:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 27:10>Proverbs 27:10</verse></h3>



Thy own friend, and thy father's friend, forsake not; neither go into thy brother's (d) house in the
day of thy calamity: [for] better [is] a neighbour [that is] near than a brother far off.



(d) Do not trust any worldly help in the day of your trouble.
#BCV:Proverbs 27:12
<h3><verse=Proverbs 27:12>Proverbs 27:12</verse></h3>




(e) A prudent [man] foreseeth the evil, [and] hideth himself; [but] the simple pass on, [and] are
punished.



(e) See<bcv=Pro 22:3> Pro 22:3</bcv>
#BCV:Proverbs 27:14
<h3><verse=Proverbs 27:14>Proverbs 27:14</verse></h3>



He that blesseth his friend with a loud voice, rising (f) early in the morning, it shall be counted a
curse to him.



(f) Hastily and without cause.
#BCV:Proverbs 27:17
<h3><verse=Proverbs 27:17>Proverbs 27:17</verse></h3>



Iron sharpeneth iron; so a (g) man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

<page=1568>(g) One hasty man provokes another to anger.
#BCV:Proverbs 27:19
<h3><verse=Proverbs 27:19>Proverbs 27:19</verse></h3>



As in water face [answereth] to face, (h) so the heart of man to man.



(h) There is no difference between men by nature, only the grace of God makes the difference.
#BCV:Proverbs 27:21
<h3><verse=Proverbs 27:21>Proverbs 27:21</verse></h3>



[As] the refining pot for silver, and the furnace for gold; so [is] a man to his (i) praise.



(i) That is, he is either known to be ambitious and glorious, or humble and modest.
#BCV:Proverbs 27:26
<h3><verse=Proverbs 27:26>Proverbs 27:26</verse></h3>



The (k) lambs [are] for thy clothing, and the goats [are] the price of the field.



(k) This declares the great goodness of God towards man, and the diligence that he requires from
him for the preservation of his gifts.

<h2>Proverbs 28</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 28:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 28:1>Proverbs 28:1</verse></h3>

<page=1569>The wicked (a) flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.



(a) Because their own conscience accuses them.
#BCV:Proverbs 28:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 28:2>Proverbs 28:2</verse></h3>



For the transgression of a land (b) many [are] its princes: but by a man of understanding [and]
knowledge [its] state shall be prolonged.



(b) The state of the commonwealth is often changed.
#BCV:Proverbs 28:8
<h3><verse=Proverbs 28:8>Proverbs 28:8</verse></h3>



He that by interest and unjust gain increaseth his substance, he shall gather (c) it for him that will
pity the poor.



(c) For God will take away the wicked usurer, and give his goods to him that will bestow them well.
#BCV:Proverbs 28:9
<h3><verse=Proverbs 28:9>Proverbs 28:9</verse></h3>



He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law, even his prayer [shall be] (d) abomination.



(d) Because it is not of faith which is grounded on God's word or law which the wicked contemn.
#BCV:Proverbs 28:11
<h3><verse=Proverbs 28:11>Proverbs 28:11</verse></h3>



The rich man [is] wise in his own conceit; but the poor man that hath understanding searcheth (e)
him out.



(e) And judge that he is not wise.
#BCV:Proverbs 28:12
<h3><verse=Proverbs 28:12>Proverbs 28:12</verse></h3>



When righteous [men] rejoice, [there is] great glory: but when the wicked rise, a man (f) is hidden.



(f) He is known by his doings to be wicked.
#BCV:Proverbs 28:14
<h3><verse=Proverbs 28:14>Proverbs 28:14</verse></h3>



Happy [is] the man that (g) feareth always: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief.

<page=1570>(g) Which stands in awe of God, and is afraid to offend him.
#BCV:Proverbs 28:15
<h3><verse=Proverbs 28:15>Proverbs 28:15</verse></h3>



[As] a roaring lion, and a ranging bear; [so is] (h) a wicked ruler over the poor people.



(h) For he can never be satisfied but always oppresses and spoils.
#BCV:Proverbs 28:17
<h3><verse=Proverbs 28:17>Proverbs 28:17</verse></h3>



A man that doeth violence to the blood of [any] person shall flee to the pit; let no man (i) sustain
him.



(i) No one will be able to deliver him.
#BCV:Proverbs 28:21
<h3><verse=Proverbs 28:21>Proverbs 28:21</verse></h3>



To have respect of persons [is] not good: for for a piece of (k) bread [that] man will transgress.



(k) He will be abused for nothing.
#BCV:Proverbs 28:22
<h3><verse=Proverbs 28:22>Proverbs 28:22</verse></h3>



He that hasteneth to be rich [hath] an evil (l) eye, and considereth not that poverty shall come upon
him.



(l) Meaning, he that is covetous.
#BCV:Proverbs 28:25
<h3><verse=Proverbs 28:25>Proverbs 28:25</verse></h3>



He that is of a proud heart stirreth up strife: but he that putteth his trust in the LORD shall be
made (m) fat.



(m) Will have all things in abundance.

<h2>Proverbs 29</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 29:5
<h3><verse=Proverbs 29:5>Proverbs 29:5</verse></h3>

<page=1571>A man that flattereth his neighbour (a) spreadeth a net for his feet.



(a) He who gives ear to the flatterer is in danger as the bird is before the fowler.
#BCV:Proverbs 29:6
<h3><verse=Proverbs 29:6>Proverbs 29:6</verse></h3>



In the transgression of an evil man [there is] a (b) snare: but the righteous doth sing and rejoice.



(b) He is always ready to fall into the snare that he lays for others.
#BCV:Proverbs 29:9
<h3><verse=Proverbs 29:9>Proverbs 29:9</verse></h3>



[If] a wise man contendeth with (c) a foolish man, whether he rageth or laugheth, [there is] no rest.



(c) He can hear no admonition no matter how it is spoken.
#BCV:Proverbs 29:18
<h3><verse=Proverbs 29:18>Proverbs 29:18</verse></h3>




(d) Where [there is] no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy [is] he.



(d) Where there are not faithful ministers of the word of God.
#BCV:Proverbs 29:19
<h3><verse=Proverbs 29:19>Proverbs 29:19</verse></h3>



A (e) servant will not be corrected by words: for though he understandeth he will not answer.



(e) He who is of a servile and rebellious nature.
#BCV:Proverbs 29:25
<h3><verse=Proverbs 29:25>Proverbs 29:25</verse></h3>



The fear of man bringeth a (f) snare: but he who putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.



(f) He who fears man more than God falls into a snare and is destroyed.
#BCV:Proverbs 29:26
<h3><verse=Proverbs 29:26>Proverbs 29:26</verse></h3>



Many seek the ruler's favour; but [every] man's (g) judgment [cometh] from the LORD.



(g) He does not need to flatter the ruler, for what God has appointed will come to him.

<h2>Proverbs 30</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 30:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 30:1>Proverbs 30:1</verse></h3>

<page=1572>The words of (a) Agur the son of Jakeh, [even] the prophecy: the man spoke to Ithiel, even to (b)
Ithiel and Ucal,



(a) Who was an excellent man in virtue and knowledge in the time of Solomon.



(b) Who were Agur's scholars or friends.
#BCV:Proverbs 30:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 30:2>Proverbs 30:2</verse></h3>



Surely I [am] more (c) senseless than [any] man, and have not the understanding of a man.



(c) In this he declares his great humility who would not attribute any wisdom to himself but all to
God.
#BCV:Proverbs 30:4
<h3><verse=Proverbs 30:4>Proverbs 30:4</verse></h3>



Who hath ascended into (d) heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in his fists? who
hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? what [is] his
name, and what [is] his son's name, if thou canst tell?



(d) Meaning, to know the secrets of God, as though he would say, "None".
#BCV:Proverbs 30:7
<h3><verse=Proverbs 30:7>Proverbs 30:7</verse></h3>



Two (e) [things] have I required of thee; deny [them] not to me before I die:



(e) He makes this request to God.
#BCV:Proverbs 30:9
<h3><verse=Proverbs 30:9>Proverbs 30:9</verse></h3>



Lest I be full, and deny [thee], and say, (f) Who [is] the LORD? or lest I be poor, and steal, and take
the name of my God [in vain].



(f) Meaning, that they who put their trust in their riches forget God and that by too much wealth
men have an opportunity to the same.
#BCV:Proverbs 30:10
<h3><verse=Proverbs 30:10>Proverbs 30:10</verse></h3>



Accuse not a servant to his master, lest he curse thee, (g) and thou be found guilty.



(g) In accusing him without cause.
#BCV:Proverbs 30:15
<h3><verse=Proverbs 30:15>Proverbs 30:15</verse></h3>

<page=1573>The horseleach hath two (h) daughters, [crying], Give, give. There are three [things that] are never
satisfied, [yea], four [things] say not, [It is] enough:



(h) The leach has two forks in her tongue, which here he calls her two daughters, by which she sucks
the blood, and is never satisfied: even so, the covetous extortioners are insatiable.
#BCV:Proverbs 30:17
<h3><verse=Proverbs 30:17>Proverbs 30:17</verse></h3>



The eye [that] mocketh at [its] father, and despiseth to obey [its] mother, the ravens (i) of the valley
shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it.



(i) Which hunt in the valley for carrion.
#BCV:Proverbs 30:20
<h3><verse=Proverbs 30:20>Proverbs 30:20</verse></h3>



Such [is] the way of an adulterous woman; she eateth, and (k) wipeth her mouth, and saith, I have
done no wickedness.



(k) She has her desires, and later counterfeits as though she were an honest woman.
#BCV:Proverbs 30:22
<h3><verse=Proverbs 30:22>Proverbs 30:22</verse></h3>



For (l) a servant when he reigneth; and a fool when he is filled with food;



(l) These commonly abuse the state to which they are called.
#BCV:Proverbs 30:23
<h3><verse=Proverbs 30:23>Proverbs 30:23</verse></h3>



For an odious [woman] when she is married; and an handmaid that is (m) heir to her mistress.



(m) Who is married to her master after the death of her mistress.
#BCV:Proverbs 30:24
<h3><verse=Proverbs 30:24>Proverbs 30:24</verse></h3>



There are four [things which are] little upon the earth, but they [are] very (n) wise:



(n) They contain great doctrine and wisdom.
#BCV:Proverbs 30:28
<h3><verse=Proverbs 30:28>Proverbs 30:28</verse></h3>



The spider taketh hold (o) with her hands, and is in kings' palaces.

<page=1574>(o) If man is not able to compass these common things by his wisdom, we cannot attribute wisdom
to man, but folly.
#BCV:Proverbs 30:32
<h3><verse=Proverbs 30:32>Proverbs 30:32</verse></h3>



If thou hast done foolishly in lifting up thyself, or if thou hast thought evil, [lay] thy hand (p) upon
thy mouth.



(p) Make a stay and continue not in doing evil.

<h2>Proverbs 31</h2>

#BCV:Proverbs 31:1
<h3><verse=Proverbs 31:1>Proverbs 31:1</verse></h3>

<page=1575>The words of king (a) Lemuel, the (b) prophecy that his mother taught him.



(a) That is, of Solomon who was called Lemuel, that is, of God, because God had ordained him to
be king over Israel.



(b) The doctrine which his mother Bathsheba taught him.
#BCV:Proverbs 31:2
<h3><verse=Proverbs 31:2>Proverbs 31:2</verse></h3>



What, my son? and what, the son of (c) my womb? and what, the son of my vows?



(c) By this often repetition of one thing, she declares her motherly affection.
#BCV:Proverbs 31:3
<h3><verse=Proverbs 31:3>Proverbs 31:3</verse></h3>



Give not thy strength to women, (d) nor thy ways to that which destroyeth kings.



(d) Meaning, that women are the destruction of kings, if they hunt them.
#BCV:Proverbs 31:4
<h3><verse=Proverbs 31:4>Proverbs 31:4</verse></h3>



[It is] not for kings, O Lemuel, [it is] not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes (e) strong drink:



(e) That is, the king must not give himself to wantonness, and neglect of his office, which is to
execute judgment.
#BCV:Proverbs 31:7
<h3><verse=Proverbs 31:7>Proverbs 31:7</verse></h3>



Let him drink, and forget (f) his poverty, and remember his misery no more.



(f) For wine comforts the heart as in (<bcv=Psa 104:15>Psa 104:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Proverbs 31:8
<h3><verse=Proverbs 31:8>Proverbs 31:8</verse></h3>



Open thy mouth for the (g) dumb in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction.



(g) Defend their cause that are not able to help themselves.
#BCV:Proverbs 31:11
<h3><verse=Proverbs 31:11>Proverbs 31:11</verse></h3>



The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of (h) spoil.

<page=1576>(h) He will not need to use any unlawful means to gain his living.
#BCV:Proverbs 31:15
<h3><verse=Proverbs 31:15>Proverbs 31:15</verse></h3>



She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth food to her household, and a (i) portion to her
maidens.



(i) She prepares their food early.
#BCV:Proverbs 31:16
<h3><verse=Proverbs 31:16>Proverbs 31:16</verse></h3>



She considereth a field, and (k) buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.



(k) She purchases it with the gains of her travail.
#BCV:Proverbs 31:23
<h3><verse=Proverbs 31:23>Proverbs 31:23</verse></h3>



Her husband is known in the (l) gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.



(l) In the assemblies and places of judgment.
#BCV:Proverbs 31:25
<h3><verse=Proverbs 31:25>Proverbs 31:25</verse></h3>




(m) Strength and honour [are] her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.



(m) After he had spoken of the apparel of the body, he now declares the apparel of the spirit.
#BCV:Proverbs 31:26
<h3><verse=Proverbs 31:26>Proverbs 31:26</verse></h3>



She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and on her tongue [is] the (n) law of kindness.



(n) Her tongue is a book by which one might learn many good things: for she delights to talk of the
word of God.
#BCV:Proverbs 31:28
<h3><verse=Proverbs 31:28>Proverbs 31:28</verse></h3>



Her children rise up, and (o) call her blessed; her husband [also], and he praiseth her.



(o) That is, do her reverence.
#BCV:Proverbs 31:31
<h3><verse=Proverbs 31:31>Proverbs 31:31</verse></h3>



Give (p) her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the (q) gates.

<page=1577>(p) Confess her diligent labours, and commend her therefore.



(q) Forasmuch as the most honourable are clad in the apparel that she made.

<h1>Ecclesiastes</h1>


<h2>Ecclesiastes 1</h2>

#BCV:Ecclesiastes 1:1
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 1:1>Ecclesiastes 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=1579>The words of the (a) Preacher, the son of David, king of Jerusalem.



The Argument - Solomon as a preacher and one that desired to instruct all in the way of salvation,
describes the deceivable vanities of this world: that man should not be addicted to anything under
the sun, but rather inflamed with the desire of the heavenly life: therefore he confutes their opinions,
which set their happiness either in knowledge or in pleasures, or in dignity and riches, wishing that
man's true happiness consists in that he is united with God and will enjoy his presence: so that all
other things must be rejected, save in as much as they further us to attain to this heavenly treasure,
which is sure and permanent, and cannot be found in any other save in God alone.



(a) Solomon is here called a preacher, or one who assembles the people, because he teaches the true
knowledge of God, and how men ought to pass their life in this transitory world.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 1:2
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 1:2>Ecclesiastes 1:2</verse></h3>




(b) Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all [is] vanity.



(b) He condemns the opinions of all men who set happiness in anything but in God alone, seeing
that in this world all things are as vanity and nothing.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 1:3
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 1:3>Ecclesiastes 1:3</verse></h3>



What profit hath a man of all his (c) labour which he taketh under the sun?



(c) Solomon does not condemn man's labour or diligence, but shows that there is no full
contentment in anything under the heavens, nor in any creature, as all things are transitory.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 1:4
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 1:4>Ecclesiastes 1:4</verse></h3>



[One] generation passeth away, and [another] generation cometh: but the earth abideth for (d) ever.



(d) One man dies after another, and the earth remains longest, even to the last day, which yet is
subject to corruption.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 1:6
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 1:6>Ecclesiastes 1:6</verse></h3>

<page=1580>The (e) wind goeth toward the south, and turneth about to the north; it whirleth about continually,
and the wind returneth again according to its circuits.



(e) By the sun, wind and rivers, he shows that the greatest labour and longest has an end, and
therefore there can be no happiness in this world.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 1:7
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 1:7>Ecclesiastes 1:7</verse></h3>



All the rivers run into the sea; yet the sea [is] not full; to the place from (f) which the rivers come,
there they return again.



(f) The sea which compasses all the earth, fills the veins of it which pour out springs and rivers into
the sea again.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 1:9
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 1:9>Ecclesiastes 1:9</verse></h3>




(g) The thing that hath been, it [is that] which shall be; and that which is done [is] that which shall be
done: and [there is] no new [thing] under the sun.



(g) He speaks of times and seasons, and things done in them, which as they have been in times past,
so come they to pass again.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 1:12
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 1:12>Ecclesiastes 1:12</verse></h3>




(h) I the Preacher was king over Israel in Jerusalem.



(h) He proves that if any could have attained happiness in this world by labour and study, he should
have obtained it, because he had gifts and aids from God to it above all others.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 1:13
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 1:13>Ecclesiastes 1:13</verse></h3>



And I gave my heart to seek and search out by wisdom concerning all [things] that are done under
heaven: this grievous labour hath God given to the sons of man (i) to be exercised with it.



(i) Man by nature has a desire to know, and yet is not able to come to the perfection of knowledge,
which is the punishment of sin, to humble man, and to teach him to depend only on God.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 1:15
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 1:15>Ecclesiastes 1:15</verse></h3>



[That which is] (k) crooked cannot be made straight: and that which is lacking cannot be numbered.



(k) Man is not able by all his diligence to cause things to go other than they do: neither can he
number the faults that are committed, much less remedy them.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 1:17
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 1:17>Ecclesiastes 1:17</verse></h3>

#BCV:ecc 1:17
<h3><verse=ecc 1:17>ecc 1:17</verse></h3>



is vexation of spirit.



(l) That is, vain things, which served to pleasure, in which was no convenience, but grief and trouble
of conscience.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 1:18
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 1:18>Ecclesiastes 1:18</verse></h3>



For in much wisdom [is] much (m) grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow.



(m) Wisdom and knowledge cannot be come by without great pain of body and mind: for when a
man has attained the highest, yet is his mind never fully content: therefore in this world is no true
happiness.

<h2>Ecclesiastes 2</h2>

#BCV:Ecclesiastes 2:1
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 2:1>Ecclesiastes 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=1582>I said in my heart, Come now, I will tempt (a) thee with mirth, therefore enjoy pleasure: and, behold,
this also [is] vanity.



(a) Solomon makes this discourse with himself, as though he would try whether there was
contentment in ease and pleasures.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 2:3
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 2:3>Ecclesiastes 2:3</verse></h3>



I sought in my heart to give myself to wine, yet acquainting my heart with (b) wisdom; and to lay
hold on folly, till I might see what [was] that good for the sons of men, which they should do under
the heaven all the days of their life.



(b) Even though I gave myself to pleasures, yet I thought to keep wisdom and the fear of God in
my heart, and govern my affairs by the same.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 2:7
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 2:7>Ecclesiastes 2:7</verse></h3>



I procured [me] male and female servants, and had servants born in my (c) house; also I had great
possessions of herds and flocks above all that were in Jerusalem before me:



(c) Meaning, of the servants or slaves which he had bought, so the children born in their servitude,
were the masters.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 2:8
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 2:8>Ecclesiastes 2:8</verse></h3>



I gathered me also silver and gold, and the special treasure of kings and of the provinces: I procured
me male and female singers, and the (d) delights of the sons of men, (e) [as] musical instruments,
and of all sorts.



(d) That is, whatever men take pleasure in.

(e) Or, the most beautiful of the women that were taken in war, as in <bcv=Jdg 5:30>(Jdg 5:30).</bcv>

#BCV:Ecclesiastes 2:9
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 2:9>Ecclesiastes 2:9</verse></h3>



So I was great, and increased more than all that were before me in Jerusalem: also my wisdom (f)
remained with me.



(f) For all this God did not take his gift of wisdom from me.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 2:10
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 2:10>Ecclesiastes 2:10</verse></h3>

#BCV:ecc 2:10
<h3><verse=ecc 2:10>ecc 2:10</verse></h3>



heart rejoiced in all my labour: and this was my (g) portion of all my labour.



(g) This was the fruit of all my labour, a certain pleasure mixed with care, which he calls vanity in the
next verse.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 2:12
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 2:12>Ecclesiastes 2:12</verse></h3>



And I turned myself to behold (h) wisdom, and madness, and folly: for what [can] the man [do] that
cometh after the king? [even] that which hath been already done.



(h) I thought to myself whether it was better to follow wisdom, or my own affections and pleasures,
which he calls madness.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 2:14
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 2:14>Ecclesiastes 2:14</verse></h3>



The wise man's (i) eyes [are] in his head; but the fool walketh in darkness: and I myself perceived
also that one (k) event happeneth to them all.



(i) Meaning, in this world.



(k) For both die and are forgotten as in (<bcv=Ecc 2:16>Ecc 2:16</bcv>) or they both alike have prosperity or adversity.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 2:16
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 2:16>Ecclesiastes 2:16</verse></h3>



For [there is] no remembrance of the wise more than of the fool (l) for ever; seeing that which now
[is] in the days to come shall all be forgotten. And (m) how dieth the wise [man]? as the fool.



(l) Meaning, in this world.



(m) He wonders that men forget a wise man, being dead, as soon as they do a fool.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 2:20
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 2:20>Ecclesiastes 2:20</verse></h3>



Therefore I went about to cause my heart (n) to despair of all the labour which I took under the sun.



(n) That I might seek the true happiness which is in God.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 2:21
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 2:21>Ecclesiastes 2:21</verse></h3>



For there is a man whose labour [is] in wisdom, and in knowledge, and in equity; yet to a man that
hath not laboured in it shall he (o) leave it [for] his portion. This also [is] vanity and a great evil.

<page=1584>(o) Among other griefs that was not the least, to leave that which he had gotten by great travail, to
one who had taken no pain therefore and whom he know not whether he were a wise man or a fool.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 2:24
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 2:24>Ecclesiastes 2:24</verse></h3>



[There is] nothing better for a man, [than] that he should eat and drink, and [that] he should (p)
make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it [was] from the hand of God.



(p) When man has all laboured, he can get no more than food and refreshing, yet he confesses also
that this comes from God's blessing, as in (<bcv=Ecc 3:13>Ecc 3:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 2:25
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 2:25>Ecclesiastes 2:25</verse></h3>



For who can eat, or who else can hasten (q) [to it], more than I?



(q) Meaning, to pleasures.

<h2>Ecclesiastes 3</h2>

#BCV:Ecclesiastes 3:1
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 3:1>Ecclesiastes 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=1585>To every [thing there is] a (a) season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:



(a) He speaks of this diversity of time for two causes first to declare that there is nothing in this
world perpetual: next to teach us not to be grieved, if we have not all things at once according to our
desires, neither enjoy them so long as we would wish.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 3:10
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 3:10>Ecclesiastes 3:10</verse></h3>



I have seen the labour, which God hath given to the sons of men (b) to be exercised in it.



(b) Read (<bcv=Ecc 1:13>Ecc 1:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 3:11
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 3:11>Ecclesiastes 3:11</verse></h3>



He hath made every [thing] beautiful in its time: also he hath set the (c) world in their heart, so that
no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.



(c) God has given man a desire and affection to seek out the things of this world, and to labour in it.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 3:13
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 3:13>Ecclesiastes 3:13</verse></h3>



And also that every man should eat and drink, and enjoy the good of all his labour, it [is] the (d) gift
of God.



(d) Read (<bcv=Ecc 2:24>Ecc 2:24</bcv>) and these places declare that we should do all things with sobriety and in the fear
of God, as he gives not his gifts to the intent that they should be abused.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 3:14
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 3:14>Ecclesiastes 3:14</verse></h3>



I know that, whatever God doeth, it shall be for (e) ever: nothing can be added to it, nor any thing
taken from it: and God doeth [it], that [men] should fear before him.



(e) That is, man will never be able to prevent God's work, but as he has determined so it will come
to pass.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 3:15
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 3:15>Ecclesiastes 3:15</verse></h3>



That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been; and God (f) requireth that
which is past.

<page=1586>(f) God only causes what which is past, to return.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 3:17
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 3:17>Ecclesiastes 3:17</verse></h3>



I said in my heart, God shall judge the righteous and the wicked: for [there is] a time (g) there for
every purpose and for every work.



(g) Meaning, with God, however man neglects his duty.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 3:18
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 3:18>Ecclesiastes 3:18</verse></h3>



I said in my heart concerning the state of the sons of men, that God might (h) tempt them, and that
they might see that they themselves are beasts.



(h) And made them pure in their first creation.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 3:19
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 3:19>Ecclesiastes 3:19</verse></h3>



For that which befalleth the sons of men befalleth beasts; even one thing (i) befalleth them: as the
one dieth, so dieth the other; yea, they have all one breath; so that a man hath no preeminence above
a beast: for all [is] vanity.



(i) Man is not able by his reason and judgment to put differences between man and beast, as
concerning those things to which both are subject: for the eye cannot judge any otherwise of a man
being dead than of a beast, which is dead: yet by the word of God and faith we easily know the
diversity as in (<bcv=Ecc 3:21>Ecc 3:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 3:21
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 3:21>Ecclesiastes 3:21</verse></h3>



Who (k) knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward, and the spirit of the beast that goeth
downward to the earth?



(k) Meaning, that reason cannot comprehend that which faith believes in.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 3:22
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 3:22>Ecclesiastes 3:22</verse></h3>



Wherefore I perceive that [there is] nothing better, than that a man should (l) rejoice in his own
works; for that [is] his portion: for who shall bring him to see what shall be after him?



(l) By the often repetition of this sentence as in (<bcv=Ecc 2:24>Ecc 2:24</bcv>,<bcv=Ecc 3:12> Ecc 3:12</bcv>,<bcv=Ecc 3:22> Ecc 3:22</bcv>,<bcv=Ecc 5:17> Ecc 5:17</bcv>,<bcv=Ecc 8:15> Ecc 8:15</bcv>) he
declares that man by reason can comprehend nothing better in this life than to use the gifts of God
soberly and comfortably: for to know further, is a special gift of God revealed by his Spirit.

<h2>Ecclesiastes 4</h2>

#BCV:Ecclesiastes 4:16
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 4:16>Ecclesiastes 4:16</verse></h3>

<page=1588>[There is] no (l) end of all the people, [even] of all that have been before them: they also that come
after shall not rejoice in him. Surely this also [is] vanity and vexation of spirit.



(l) They never cease by all means to creep into favour, but when they do not obtain their greedy
desires they think themselves abused, as others have been in times past, and so care no more for him.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 4:1
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 4:1>Ecclesiastes 4:1</verse></h3>



So (a) I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the
tears of [such as were] oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors
[there was] power; but they had no comforter.



(a) He makes here another discourse with himself concerning the tyranny of them that oppressed
the poor.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 4:2
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 4:2>Ecclesiastes 4:2</verse></h3>



Wherefore I praised the (b) dead who are already dead more than the living who are yet alive.



(b) Because they are no longer subject to these oppressions.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 4:3
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 4:3>Ecclesiastes 4:3</verse></h3>



Yea, (c) better [is he] than both they, who hath not yet been, who hath not seen the evil work that is
done under the sun.



(c) He speaks according to the judgment of the flesh which cannot abide to feel or see troubles.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 4:4
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 4:4>Ecclesiastes 4:4</verse></h3>



Again, I considered all labour, and every (d) right work, that for this a man is envied by his
neighbour. This [is] also vanity and vexation of spirit.



(d) The more perfect that the work is, the more it is envied by the wicked.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 4:5
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 4:5>Ecclesiastes 4:5</verse></h3>



The fool foldeth his hands together, and (e) eateth his own flesh.



(e) For idleness he is compelled to destroy himself.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 4:9
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 4:9>Ecclesiastes 4:9</verse></h3>


<page=1589>(f) Two [are] better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour.



(f) As when man is alone, he can neither help himself nor others, he shows that men should live in
mutual society to the intent that they may be profitable one to another, and that their things may
increase.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 4:12
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 4:12>Ecclesiastes 4:12</verse></h3>



And if one prevaileth against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold (g) cord is not quickly
broken.



(g) By this proverb he declares how necessary it is, that men should live in society.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 4:14
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 4:14>Ecclesiastes 4:14</verse></h3>



For out of (h) prison he cometh to reign; though also [he that is] (i) born in his kingdom becometh
poor.



(h) That is, from a poor and base estate or out of trouble and prison as Joseph did, (<bcv=Gen 41:14>Gen 41:14</bcv>).



(i) Meaning, that is born a king.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 4:15
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 4:15>Ecclesiastes 4:15</verse></h3>



I considered all the living who walk under the sun, (k) with the second child that shall stand up in his
stead.



(k) Who follow and flatter the king's son, or him that will succeed to enter into credit with them in
hope of gain.

<h2>Ecclesiastes 5</h2>

#BCV:Ecclesiastes 5:1
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 5:1>Ecclesiastes 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=1590>Keep thy (m) foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, than to give
the sacrifice of (n) fools: for they consider not that they do evil.



(m) That is, with what affection you come to hear the word of God.



(n) Meaning, of the wicked, who think to please God with common uses, and have neither faith nor
repentance.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 5:2
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 5:2>Ecclesiastes 5:2</verse></h3>



Be not (a) rash with thy mouth, and let not thy heart be hasty to utter [any] thing before God: for
God [is] in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be (b) few.



(a) Either in vowing or in praying, meaning, that we should use all reverence toward God.



(b) He hears you not for the sake of your many words or often repetitions, but considers your faith
and servant's mind.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 5:4
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 5:4>Ecclesiastes 5:4</verse></h3>



When thou vowest a vow to God, defer not to pay it; for [he hath] no pleasure in fools: pay that
which thou hast (c) vowed.



(c) He speaks of vows which are approved by God's word and serve to his glory.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 5:6
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 5:6>Ecclesiastes 5:6</verse></h3>



Allow not thy mouth to cause thy (d) flesh to sin; neither say thou before the (e) angel, that it [was]
an error: why should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thy hands?



(d) Do not cause yourself to sin by vowing rashly as they do who make a vow to live unmarried and
such like.



(e) That is, before God's messenger when he will examine your doing, as though your ignorance
should be a just excuse.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 5:8
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 5:8>Ecclesiastes 5:8</verse></h3>



If thou seest the oppression of the poor, and violent perverting of judgment and justice in a
province, wonder not at the matter: for [he that is] (f) higher than the highest regardeth; and [there
are] higher than they.

<page=1591>(f) Meaning, that God will address these things, and therefore we must depend on him.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 5:9
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 5:9>Ecclesiastes 5:9</verse></h3>



Moreover the (g) profit of the earth is for all: the king (h) [himself] is served by the field.



(g) The earth is to be preferred above all things which belong to this life.



(h) Kings and princes cannot maintain their estate without tillage, which commends the excellency
of tillage.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 5:12
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 5:12>Ecclesiastes 5:12</verse></h3>



The sleep of a labouring man [is] sweet, whether he eateth little or much: but the (i) abundance of
the rich will not allow him to sleep.



(i) That is, his great abundance of riches, or the surfeiting, which comes by his great feeding.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 5:13
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 5:13>Ecclesiastes 5:13</verse></h3>



There is a grievous evil [which] I have seen under the sun, [namely], riches (k) kept for the owners
of them to their hurt.



(k) When covetous men heap up riches, which turn to their destruction.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 5:14
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 5:14>Ecclesiastes 5:14</verse></h3>



But those riches perish by evil labour: and he begetteth a son, and [there is] nothing in his (l) hand.



(l) He does not enjoy his father's riches.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 5:16
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 5:16>Ecclesiastes 5:16</verse></h3>



And this also [is] a grievous evil, [that] in all points as he came, so shall he go: and what profit hath
he that hath laboured for the (m) wind?



(m) Meaning, in vain and without profit.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 5:17
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 5:17>Ecclesiastes 5:17</verse></h3>



All his days also he eateth in (n) darkness, and [he hath] much sorrow and wrath with his sickness.



(n) In affliction and grief of mind.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 5:18
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 5:18>Ecclesiastes 5:18</verse></h3>

#BCV:ecc 5:18
<h3><verse=ecc 5:18>ecc 5:18</verse></h3>



enjoy the good of all his labour that he taketh under the sun all the days of his life, which God
giveth him: for it [is] his portion.



(o) See<bcv=Ecc 3:22> Ecc 3:22</bcv>
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 5:20
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 5:20>Ecclesiastes 5:20</verse></h3>



For he shall not much remember the days of his (p) life; because God answereth [him] in the joy of
his heart.



(p) He will take no great thought for the pains that he has endured in times past.

<h2>Ecclesiastes 6</h2>

#BCV:Ecclesiastes 6:2
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 6:2>Ecclesiastes 6:2</verse></h3>

<page=1593>A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth, and honour, so that he lacketh nothing for his soul
of all that he desireth, yet (a) God giveth him not power to eat of it, but a stranger eateth it: this [is]
vanity, and it [is] an evil disease.



(a) He shows that it is the plague of God when the rich man does not have a liberal heart to use his
riches.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 6:3
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 6:3>Ecclesiastes 6:3</verse></h3>



If a man begetteth an hundred [children], and liveth many years, so that the days of his years are
many, and his soul is not (b) filled with good, and also [that] he hath no (c) burial; I say, [that] an
untimely birth [is] better than he.



(b) If he can never have enough.



(c) As we see often that the covetous man either falls into crimes that deserve death, or is murdered
or drowned or hangs himself or such like and so lacks the honour of burial, which is the last office
of humanity.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 6:4
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 6:4>Ecclesiastes 6:4</verse></h3>



For (d) he cometh with vanity, and departeth in darkness, and his name shall be covered with
darkness.



(d) Meaning, the untimely fruit whose life neither profited nor hurt any.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 6:7
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 6:7>Ecclesiastes 6:7</verse></h3>



All the labour of man [is] for his mouth, and yet the (e) appetite is not filled.



(e) His desire and affection.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 6:9
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 6:9>Ecclesiastes 6:9</verse></h3>



Better [is] the (g) sight of the eyes than the wandering of the desire: this [is] also vanity and vexation
of spirit.



(g) To be content with that which God has given is better than to follow the desires that can never
be satisfied.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 6:10
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 6:10>Ecclesiastes 6:10</verse></h3>

#BCV:ecc 6:10
<h3><verse=ecc 6:10>ecc 6:10</verse></h3>



him that is (h) mightier than he.



(h) Meaning, God who will make him feel that he is mortal.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 6:12
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 6:12>Ecclesiastes 6:12</verse></h3>



For who knoweth what [is] (a) good for man in [this] life, all the days of his vain life which he
spendeth as a shadow? for who can tell a man what shall be after him under the sun?



(a) There is no state in which man can live to have perfect quietness in this life.

<h2>Ecclesiastes 7</h2>

#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:1
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:1>Ecclesiastes 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=1595>A good name [is] better than precious ointment; and the day of (b) death than the day of one's birth.



(b) He speaks thus after the judgment of the flesh, which thinks death is the end of all evils, or else
because this corporal death is the entering into everlasting life.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:2
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:2>Ecclesiastes 7:2</verse></h3>



[It is] better to go to the house of (c) mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that [is] the
end of all men; and the living will lay [it] to his heart.



(c) Where we may see the hand of God and learn to examine our lives.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:6
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:6>Ecclesiastes 7:6</verse></h3>



For as the crackling of (d) thorns under a pot, so [is] the laughter of the fool: this also [is] vanity.



(d) Which crackle for a while and profit nothing.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:7
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:7>Ecclesiastes 7:7</verse></h3>



Surely oppression maketh a wise man (e) mad; and a gift destroyeth the heart.



(e) A man that is esteemed wise, when he falls to oppression, becomes like a beast.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:8
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:8>Ecclesiastes 7:8</verse></h3>



Better [is] the (f) end of a thing than its beginning: [and] the patient in spirit [is] better than the
proud in spirit.



(f) He notes their lightness who attempt a thing and suddenly leave it off again.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:10
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:10>Ecclesiastes 7:10</verse></h3>



Say not thou, What is [the cause] that the former days were better than these? for thou dost not
enquire (g) wisely concerning this.



(g) Murmur not against God when he sends adversities for man's sins.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:11
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:11>Ecclesiastes 7:11</verse></h3>

<page=1596>Wisdom [is] good with an (h) inheritance: and [by it there is] profit to them that see the sun.



(h) He answers to them who do not value wisdom unless riches are joined with it, showing that both
are the gifts of God, but that wisdom is far more excellent and may be without riches.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:14
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:14>Ecclesiastes 7:14</verse></h3>



In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity (i) consider: God also hath appointed
the one as well as the other, to the end that man should find (k) nothing after him.



(i) Consider why God sends it and what may comfort you.



(k) That man should be able to control nothing in his works.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:15
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:15>Ecclesiastes 7:15</verse></h3>



All [things] have I seen in the days of my vanity: there is a just [man] that perisheth in his (l)
righteousness, and there is a wicked [man] that prolongeth [his life] in his wickedness.



(l) Meaning that cruel tyrants put the godly to death and let the wicked go free.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:16
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:16>Ecclesiastes 7:16</verse></h3>



Be not righteous (m) over much; neither make thyself over wise: why shouldest thou destroy thyself ?



(m) Do not boast too much of your own justice and wisdom.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:17
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:17>Ecclesiastes 7:17</verse></h3>



Be not (n) over much wicked, neither be thou foolish: why shouldest thou die before thy time?



(n) Do not tarry long when you are admonished to come out of the way of wickedness.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:18
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:18>Ecclesiastes 7:18</verse></h3>



[It is] good that thou shouldest take hold of (o) this; yea, also from (p) this withdraw not thy hand:
for he that feareth God shall escape from them all.



(o) That is, on these admonitions that go before.



(p) Consider what desolation and destruction will come, if you do not obey them.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:21
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:21>Ecclesiastes 7:21</verse></h3>



Also take no (q) heed to all words that are spoken; lest thou hear thy servant curse thee:

<page=1597>(q) Credit them not, neither care for them.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:24
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:24>Ecclesiastes 7:24</verse></h3>



That which is far off, (r) and exceedingly deep, who can find it out?



(r) Meaning wisdom.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:27
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:27>Ecclesiastes 7:27</verse></h3>



Behold, this have I found, saith the preacher, [counting] one by one, to (s) find out the account:



(s) That is, to come to a conclusion.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 7:29
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 7:29>Ecclesiastes 7:29</verse></h3>



Lo, this only have I found, that God hath made man upright; but they have sought out many (t)
devices.



(t) And so are cause for their own destruction.

<h2>Ecclesiastes 8</h2>

#BCV:Ecclesiastes 8:1
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 8:1>Ecclesiastes 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=1598>Who [is] as the wise [man]? and who knoweth the interpretation of a thing? a man's wisdom maketh
his face (a) to shine, and (b) the boldness of his face shall be changed.



(a) That is, gets him favour and prosperity.



(b) While before he was proud and arrogant, he will become humble and meek.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 8:2
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 8:2>Ecclesiastes 8:2</verse></h3>



I [counsel thee] to keep the king's (c) commandment, and [that] in regard of the oath of God.



(c) That is, that you obey the king and keep the oath that you have made for the same cause.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 8:3
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 8:3>Ecclesiastes 8:3</verse></h3>




(d) Be not hasty to go out of his sight: stand not in an evil thing; for he doeth whatever pleaseth him.



(d) Do not withdraw from yourself lightly from the obedience of your prince.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 8:5
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 8:5>Ecclesiastes 8:5</verse></h3>



He who keepeth the commandment shall feel no evil thing: and a wise man's heart discerneth both



(e) time and judgment.



(e) That is, when time is to obey, and how far he should obey.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 8:6
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 8:6>Ecclesiastes 8:6</verse></h3>



Because to every purpose there is time and judgment, therefore the (f) misery of man [is] great upon
him.



(f) Man by himself is miserable, and therefore should do nothing to increase the same, but to work
all things by wisdom and counsel.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 8:8
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 8:8>Ecclesiastes 8:8</verse></h3>



[There is] no man that hath power (g) over the spirit to retain the spirit; neither [hath he] power in
the day of death: and [there is] no discharge in [that] war; neither shall wickedness deliver those that
are given to it.



(g) Man has no power to save his own life and therefore must not rashly cast himself into danger.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 8:9
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 8:9>Ecclesiastes 8:9</verse></h3>

<page=1599>All this have I seen, and applied my heart to every work that is done under the sun: [there is] a time
in which one man ruleth over another to his own (h) hurt.



(h) As comes often to tyrants and wicked rulers.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 8:10
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 8:10>Ecclesiastes 8:10</verse></h3>



And so I saw the wicked buried, who had come and (i) gone from the (k) place of the holy, and they
were forgotten in the city where they had so done: this [is] also vanity.



(i) That is, others as wicked as they.



(k) They who feared God and worshipped him as he had appointed.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 8:11
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 8:11>Ecclesiastes 8:11</verse></h3>



Because sentence against an evil work is not (l) executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of
men is fully set in them to do evil.



(l) Where justice is delayed, there sin reigns.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 8:14
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 8:14>Ecclesiastes 8:14</verse></h3>



There is a vanity which is done upon the earth; that there are just [men], to whom it happeneth
according to the (m) work of the wicked; again, there are wicked [men], to whom it happeneth
according to the work of the righteous: I said that this also [is] vanity.



(m) Who are punished as though they were wicked, as in (<bcv=Ecc 7:17>Ecc 7:17</bcv>)
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 8:15
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 8:15>Ecclesiastes 8:15</verse></h3>



Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than (n) to eat, and to
drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God
giveth him under the sun.



(n) See<bcv=Ecc 3:22> Ecc 3:22</bcv>

<h2>Ecclesiastes 9</h2>

#BCV:Ecclesiastes 9:1
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 9:1>Ecclesiastes 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=1600>For all this I considered in my heart even to declare all this, that the righteous, and the wise, and
their works, [are] in the hand of God: no man knoweth either love or (a) hatred [by] all [that is]
before them.



(a) Meaning, what things he ought to chose or refuse: or man knows not by these outward things
that is, by prosperity or adversity, whom God favours or hates, for he sends them as well to the
wicked as to the godly.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 9:3
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 9:3>Ecclesiastes 9:3</verse></h3>



This [is] an evil among all [things] that are done under the sun, that [there is] one (b) event to all: yea,
also the heart of the sons of men is full of evil, and madness [is] in their heart while they live, and
after that [they go] to the dead.



(b) In outward things, as riches and poverty, sickness and health, there is no difference between the
godly and the wicked but the difference is that the godly are assured by faith of God's favour and
assistance.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 9:4
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 9:4>Ecclesiastes 9:4</verse></h3>



For to him that is joined to all the living there is hope: for a (c) living dog is better than a dead lion.



(c) He notes the Epicurean and carnal men, who made their body their god, and had no pleasure in
this life, wishing rather to be an abased and vile person in this life, then a man of authority and so to
die, which is meant by the dog and lion.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 9:7
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 9:7>Ecclesiastes 9:7</verse></h3>



Go thy way, eat thy bread with joy, and drink thy wine with a merry heart; for God now (d)
accepteth thy works.



(d) They flatter themselves to be in God's favour, because they have all things in abundance.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 9:8
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 9:8>Ecclesiastes 9:8</verse></h3>



Let thy garments be always (e) white; and let thy head lack no ointment.



(e) Rejoice, be merry and spare for no cost, thus speak the wicked belly-gods.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 9:11
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 9:11>Ecclesiastes 9:11</verse></h3>

#BCV:ecc 9:11
<h3><verse=ecc 9:11>ecc 9:11</verse></h3>



neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill;
but time and (f) chance happeneth to them all.



(f) Thus the worldlings say to prove that all things are lawful for them and attribute that to chance
and fortune which is done by the providence of God.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 9:12
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 9:12>Ecclesiastes 9:12</verse></h3>



For man also knoweth not his (g) time: as the fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that
are caught in the snare; so [are] the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly
upon them.



(g) That is, he does not foresee what will come.

<h2>Ecclesiastes 10</h2>

#BCV:Ecclesiastes 10:2
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 10:2>Ecclesiastes 10:2</verse></h3>

<page=1602>A (a) wise man's heart [is] at his right hand; but a fool's heart [is] at his left.



(a) So that he does all things well and justly, where as the fool does the contrary.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 10:3
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 10:3>Ecclesiastes 10:3</verse></h3>



Also, when he that is a fool walketh by the way, his wisdom faileth [him], and he (b) saith to every
one [that] he [is] a fool.



(b) By his doings he betrays himself.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 10:4
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 10:4>Ecclesiastes 10:4</verse></h3>



If the (c) spirit of the ruler riseth against thee, leave not thy place; for yielding pacifieth great
offences.



(c) If your superior is angry with you, be discrete and not moved.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 10:5
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 10:5>Ecclesiastes 10:5</verse></h3>



There is an evil [which] I have seen under the sun, as an (d) error [which] proceedeth from the ruler:



(d) Meaning that it is an evil thing when they who are in authority fail and do not do their duty.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 10:6
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 10:6>Ecclesiastes 10:6</verse></h3>



Folly is set in great dignity, and the (e) rich sit in low place.



(e) They who are rich in wisdom and virtue.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 10:10
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 10:10>Ecclesiastes 10:10</verse></h3>



If the iron is blunt, and he doth not whet the edge, then must he use more (f) strength: but wisdom
[is] profitable to direct.



(f) Without wisdom, whatever a man takes in hand, turns to his own hurt.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 10:15
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 10:15>Ecclesiastes 10:15</verse></h3>

<page=1603>The labour of the foolish wearieth every one of them, because he knoweth not how to go to the (g)
city.



(g) The ignorance and beastliness of the wicked is such that they know not common things, and yet
will discuss high matters.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 10:16
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 10:16>Ecclesiastes 10:16</verse></h3>



Woe to thee, O land, when thy king [is] a (h) child, and thy princes (i) eat in the morning!



(h) That is, without wisdom and counsel.



(i) Are given to their lusts and pleasures.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 10:17
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 10:17>Ecclesiastes 10:17</verse></h3>



Blessed [art] thou, O land, when thy king [is] the son (k) of nobles, and thy princes eat in due season,
for strength, and not for drunkenness!



(k) Meaning, when he is noble for virtue and wisdom and with the gifts of God.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 10:20
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 10:20>Ecclesiastes 10:20</verse></h3>



Curse not the king, no not in thy thought; and curse not the rich in thy bedchamber: for a (l) bird of
the air shall carry the voice, and that which hath wings shall tell the matter.



(l) You cannot work evil so secretly that it will not be known.

<h2>Ecclesiastes 11</h2>

#BCV:Ecclesiastes 11:1
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 11:1>Ecclesiastes 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=1604>Cast thy bread upon the (a) waters: for thou shalt find it after many days.



(a) That is, be liberal to the poor, and though it seems to be as a thing ventured on the sea, yet it will
bring you profit.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 11:3
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 11:3>Ecclesiastes 11:3</verse></h3>



If the (b) clouds are full of rain, they empty [themselves] upon the earth: and if the (c) tree falleth
toward the south, or toward the north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be.



(b) As the clouds that are full pour out rain, so the rich that have abundance must distribute it
liberally.



(c) He exhorts to be liberal while we live: for after, there is no power.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 11:4
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 11:4>Ecclesiastes 11:4</verse></h3>



He that observeth the (d) wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap.



(d) He who fears inconveniences when need requires will never do his duty.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 11:6
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 11:6>Ecclesiastes 11:6</verse></h3>



In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening (e) withhold not thy hand: for thou knowest not
which shall prosper, either this or (f) that, or whether they both [shall be] alike good.



(e) Be not weary of well doing.



(f) That is, which of your works are most agreeable to God.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 11:8
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 11:8>Ecclesiastes 11:8</verse></h3>



But if a man shall live many years, [and] rejoice in them all; yet let him remember the days of (g)
darkness; for they shall be many. All that cometh [is] vanity.



(g) That is, of affliction and trouble.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 11:9
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 11:9>Ecclesiastes 11:9</verse></h3>


<page=1605>(h) Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and
walk in the ways of thy heart, and in the sight of thy eyes: but know thou, that for all these [things]
God will bring thee into judgment.



(h) He derides them who set their desire in worldly pleasures as though God would not call count.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 11:10
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 11:10>Ecclesiastes 11:10</verse></h3>



Therefore remove (i) sorrow from thy heart, and (k) put away evil from thy flesh: for childhood and
youth [are] vanity.



(i) That is, anger and envy.



(k) Meaning, carnal lusts to which youth is given.

<h2>Ecclesiastes 12</h2>

#BCV:Ecclesiastes 12:2
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 12:2>Ecclesiastes 12:2</verse></h3>

<page=1606>While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, are not darkened, nor the (a) clouds return
after the rain:



(a) Before you come to a continual misery: for when the clouds remain after the rain, man's grief is
increased.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 12:3
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 12:3>Ecclesiastes 12:3</verse></h3>



In the day when the (b) keepers of the house shall tremble, and the (c) strong men shall bow
themselves, and the (d) grinders cease because they are few, and those that (e) look out of the
windows shall be darkened,



(b) The hands which keep the body.



(c) The legs.



(d) The teeth.



(e) The eyes.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 12:4
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 12:4>Ecclesiastes 12:4</verse></h3>



And the (f) doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of the (g) grinding shall be low, and he
shall rise up at the voice of the (h) bird, and all the (i) daughters of music shall be brought low;



(f) The lips or mouth.



(g) When the jaws will scarce open and not be able to chew any more.



(h) He will not be able to sleep.



(i) That is the wind pipes or the ears will be deaf and not able to hear singing.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 12:5
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 12:5>Ecclesiastes 12:5</verse></h3>



Also [when] they shall be afraid of [that which is] (k) high, and fears [shall be] in the (l) way, and the
almond tree shall (m) flourish, and the (n) grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail:
because man goeth to his long home, and the mourners go about the streets:



(k) To climb high because of their weakness, or they stoop down as though they were afraid lest
anything should hide them.



(l) They will tremble as they go, as though they were afraid.

<page=1607>(m) Their head will be as white as the blossoms of an almond tree.



(n) They will be able to bear nothing.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 12:6
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 12:6>Ecclesiastes 12:6</verse></h3>



Or ever the (o) silver cord shall be loosed, or the golden (p) bowl be broken, or the (q) pitcher be
broken at the (r) fountain, or the (s) wheel broken at the (t) cistern.



(o) Meaning, the marrow of the backbone and the sinews.



(p) The little skin that covers the brain, which is in colour like gold.



(q) That is, the veins.



(r) Meaning the liver.



(s) Which is the head.



(t) That is, the heart out of which the head draws the powers of life.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 12:7
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 12:7>Ecclesiastes 12:7</verse></h3>



Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the (u) spirit shall return to God who gave it.



(u) The soul unconsciously goes either to joy or torment, and sleeps not as the wicked imagine.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 12:11
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 12:11>Ecclesiastes 12:11</verse></h3>



The words of the wise [are] as goads, and as nails (x) fastened [by] the masters of assemblies, [which]
are given from one (y) shepherd.



(x) Which are well applied by the ministers, whom he calls masters.



(y) That is by God.
#BCV:Ecclesiastes 12:12
<h3><verse=Ecclesiastes 12:12>Ecclesiastes 12:12</verse></h3>



And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many (z) books [there is] no end; and
much study [is] a weariness of the flesh.



(z) These things cannot be comprehended in books or learned by study, but God must instruct your
heart that you may only know that wisdom is the true happiness and the way to it is to fear God.

<page=1609>Song of Solomon (Canticles)


Song of Solomon (Canticles) Chapter 1

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 1:2

Let (a) him kiss me with the kisses of his mouth: for thy love [is] better than wine.



(a) This is spoken in the person of the Church, or of the faithful soul inflamed with the desire of
Christ, whom she loves.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 1:3


Because of the (b) savour of thy good ointments thy name [is as] ointment poured forth, therefore
do the (c) virgins love thee.



(b) The feeling of your great benefits.



(c) They that are pure in heart and conversation.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 1:4

(d) Draw me, we will run after thee: the king hath brought me into his (e) chambers: we will be glad
and rejoice in thee, we will remember thy love more than wine: the upright love thee.



(d) The faithful confess that they cannot come to Christ, unless they are drawn.



(e) Meaning the secret joy that is not known to the world.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 1:5

I [am] (f) black, but comely, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, as the tents of (g) Kedar, as the (h)
curtains of Solomon.



(f) The Church confesses her spots and sin, but has confidence in the favour of Christ.



(g) Kedar was Ishmael's son, of whom came the Arabians that dwelt in tents.



(h) Which within were all set with precious stones and jewels.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 1:6

<page=1610>Look not upon me, because I [am] (i) black, because the (k) sun hath looked upon me: (l) my
mother's children were angry with me; they made me the keeper of the vineyards; [but] my own
vineyard have I not (m) kept.

(i) Consider not the Church by the outward appearance.

(k) The corruption of nature through sin and afflictions.

(l) My own brethren who should have most favoured me.



(m) She confesses her own negligence.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 1:7

Tell me, (n) O thou whom my soul loveth, where thou feedest, where thou makest [thy flock] to rest
at noon: for why should I be as one that turneth aside by the flocks of (o) thy companions?



(n) The spouse feeling her fault flees to her husband only for comfort.



(o) Whom you have called to the dignity of pastors, and they set forth their own dreams instead of
your doctrine.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 1:8

(p) If thou knowest not, O thou fairest among women, go forth by the footsteps of the flock, and
feed thy kids beside the shepherds' tents.



(p) Christ speaks to his Church, bidding them that are ignorant to go to the pastors to learn.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 1:9

I have compared thee, O my love, to a company of horses in Pharaoh's (q) chariots.



(q) For your spiritual beauty and excellency there was no worldly treasure to be compared to you.
Song of Solomon (Canticles) 1:12
sol 1:12

(r) While the king [sitteth] at his table, my spikenard sendeth forth its fragrance.

(r) The Church rejoices that she is admitted to the company of Christ.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 1:13

A bundle of myrrh [is] my wellbeloved to me; he shall lie all night between my (s) breasts.



(s) He will be most dear to me.

<page=1611>Song of Solomon (Canticles) 1:16

Behold, thou [art] fair, my beloved, yea, pleasant: also our (u) bed [is] green.



(u) That is, the heart of the faithful, in which Christ dwells by his Spirit.

<page=1612>Song of Solomon (Canticles) Chapter 2

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 2:2

As the lily among thorns, so [is] my (a) love among the daughters.



(a) Thus Christ prefers his Church above all other things.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 2:3

(b) As the apple tree among the trees of the wood, so [is] my beloved among the sons. I sat down
under his shadow with great delight, and his fruit [was] sweet to my taste.



(b) The spouse testifies her great desire toward her husband, but her strength fails her, and therefore
she desires to be comforted, and felt it.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 2:7

(c) I charge you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, and by the hinds of the field, that ye stir
not, nor awake [my] love, till he please.



(c) Christ charges them who have to do in the Church as it were by a solemn oath, that they trouble
not the quietness of it.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 2:8

(d) The voice of my beloved! behold, he cometh leaping upon the mountains, skipping upon the
hills.



(d) This is spoken of Christ who took on our nature to come to help his Church.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 2:9

My beloved is like a roe or a young hart: behold, he (e) standeth behind our wall, he looketh forth at
the windows, gazing himself through the (f) lattice.



(e) For as his divinity was hidden under the cloak of our flesh.



(f) So that we cannot have full knowledge of him in this life.
Song of Solomon (Canticles) 2:11

For, lo, the (g) winter is past, the rain is over [and] gone;

<page=1613>(g) That is, sin and error is driven back by the coming of Christ, who is here described by the
springtime, when all things flourish.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 2:14

O my dove, [that art] in the (h) clefts of the rock, in the secret [places] of the stairs, let me see thy
countenance, let me hear thy voice; for sweet [is] thy voice, and thy countenance [is] comely.

(h) You who are ashamed of your sins, come and show yourself to me.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 2:15

Take for us the foxes, the (i) little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines [have] tender grapes.

(i) Suppress the heretics while they are young, that is, when they begin to show their malice, and
destroy the vine of the Lord.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 2:17

Until the day shall break, and the shadows flee away, turn, my beloved, and be thou like a (k) roe or a
young hart upon the mountains of Bether.

(k) The church desires Christ to be most ready to help her in all dangers.

<page=1614>Song of Solomon (Canticles) Chapter 3

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 3:1

By (a) night on my bed I sought him whom my soul loveth: I sought him, but I found him not.

(a) The Church by night, that is, in troubles, seeks Christ, but is not incontinently heard.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 3:2

I will rise now, and go about the city in the streets, and in the broad ways I will (b) seek him whom
my soul loveth: I sought him, but I found him not.

(b) Showing that although we are not heard at first, yet we must still continue in prayer, till we feel
comfort.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 3:3

The (c) watchmen that go about the city found me: [to whom I said], Saw ye him whom my soul
loveth?

(c) Which declares that we must seek to all of whom we hope to have any help.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 3:5

(d) I charge you, O ye daughters of Jerusalem, by the roes, and by the hinds of the field, that ye stir
not up, nor awake [my] love, till he please.

(d) See Sol 2:7

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 3:6

Who [is] this that cometh out of the (e) wilderness like pillars of smoke, perfumed with myrrh and
frankincense, with all powders of the merchant?



(e) This refers to the Church of Israel which was led in the wilderness for forty years.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 3:7

Behold his (f) bed, which [is] Solomon's; sixty valiant men [are] about it, of the valiant of Israel.



(f) By the bed is meant the temple which Solomon made.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 3:8

<page=1615>They all hold swords, [being] expert in war: every man [hath] his sword upon his thigh because of
fear (g) in the night.



(g) He alludes to the watch which kept the temple.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 3:11

Go forth, O ye (h) daughters of Zion, and behold king Solomon with the (i) crown with which his
mother crowned him in the day of his espousals, and in the day of the gladness of his heart.



(h) All you that are of the number of the faithful.



(i) Christ became man, was crowned by the love of God with the glorious crown of his divinity.

<page=1616>Song of Solomon (Canticles) Chapter 4

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 4:1

Behold, thou [art] (a) fair, my love; behold, thou [art] fair; thou [hast] doves' eyes within thy locks:
thy hair [is] as a (b) flock of goats, that appear from mount Gilead.



(a) Because Christ delights in his Church, he commends all that is in her.



(b) He has respect for the multitude of the faithful, which are many in number.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 4:5

Thy two (c) breasts [are] like two young roes that are twins, which feed among the lilies.



(c) In which are knowledge and zeal two precious jewels.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 4:8

(d) Come with me from Lebanon, [my] spouse, with me from Lebanon: look from the top of
Amana, from the top of Shenir and Hermon, from the lions' dens, from the mountains of the
leopards.



(d) Christ promises his Church to call his faithful from all the corners of the world.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 4:9

Thou hast ravished my heart, my (e) sister, [my] spouse; thou hast ravished my heart with one of thy



(f) eyes, with one chain of thy neck.



(e) Christ calls his Church sister in respect that he had taken the flesh of man.



(f) In that he made his Church beautiful and rich, he loved his gifts in her.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 4:11

Thy (g) lips, O [my] spouse, drop [as] the honeycomb: honey and milk [are] under thy tongue; and
the scent of thy garments [is] like the fragrance of Lebanon.



(g) Because of your confession and thanksgiving.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 4:15

(h) A fountain of gardens, a well of living waters, and streams from Lebanon.

<page=1617>(h) The Church confesses that all her glory and beauty comes from Christ who is the true fountain
of all grace.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 4:16

Awake, O (i) north wind; and come, thou south; blow upon my garden, [that] its spices may flow out.
Let my beloved come into his garden, and eat his pleasant fruits.

(i) She desires Christ to comfort her and to pour the graces of his Spirit on her, which is meant by
the North and South wind.

<page=1618>Song of Solomon (Canticles) Chapter 5

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 5:1

I have come into my (a) garden, my sister, [my] spouse: I have gathered my myrrh with my spice; I
have eaten my honeycomb with my honey; I have drank my wine with my milk: eat, O friends; drink,
yea, drink abundantly, O beloved.

(a) The garden signifies the kingdom of Christ, where he prepares the banquet for his elect.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 5:2

(b) I sleep, but my heart waketh: [it is] the voice of my beloved that knocketh, [saying], Open to me,
my sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled: for my head is filled with dew, [and] my locks with the
drops of the (c) night.


(b) The spouse says that she is troubled with the cares of worldly things, which is meant by sleeping.


(c) Declaring the long patience of the Lord toward sinners.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 5:3

I have put off my (d) coat; how shall I put it on? I have washed my feet; how shall I defile them?


(d) The spouse confesses her nakedness, and that of herself she has nothing, or seeing that she is
once made clean she promises not to defile herself again.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 5:5

I rose up to open to my beloved; and my hands flowed [with] myrrh, and my (e) fingers [with] sweet
smelling myrrh, upon the handles of the lock.


(e) The spouse who should be anointed by Christ will not find him if she thinks to anoint him with
her good works.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 5:7

The (f) watchmen that went about the city found me, they smote me, they wounded me; the keepers
of the walls took away my veil from me.


(f) These are the false teachers who wound the conscience with their traditions.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 5:8

<page=1619>I charge you, (g) O daughters of Jerusalem, if ye find my beloved, that ye tell him, that I [am] sick
with love.


(g) She asks of them who are godly (as the law and salvation should come out of Zion and
Jerusalem) that they would direct her to Christ.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 5:9

(h) What [is] thy beloved more than [another] beloved, O thou fairest among women? what [is] thy
beloved more than [another] beloved, that thou dost so charge us?



(h) Thus say they of Jerusalem.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 5:11

His (i) head [is as] the most fine gold, his locks [are] bushy, [and] black as a raven.



(i) She describes Christ to be of perfect beauty and comeliness.

<page=1620>Song of Solomon (Canticles) Chapter 6

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 6:1

Where is thy beloved gone, (k) O thou fairest among women? where is thy beloved turned aside?
that we may seek him with thee.



(k) Hearing of the excellency of Christ, the faithful desire to know how to find him.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 6:2

My beloved is gone down into his (a) garden, to the beds of spices, to feed in the gardens, and to
gather lilies.



(a) That is, is conversant here in earth among men.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 6:4

Thou [art] beautiful, O my love, as (b) Tirzah, comely as Jerusalem, terrible as [an army] with
banners.



(b) Which was a fair and strong city, (<bcv=I Ki 14:17>Kg1 14:17</bcv>).

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 6:5

(c) Turn away thy eyes from me, for they have overcome me: thy hair [is] as a flock of goats that
appear from Gilead.



(c) This declares the exceeding love of Christ toward his Church.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 6:8

There are (d) sixty queens, and eighty concubines, and virgins without number.



(d) Meaning that the gifts are infinite which Christ gives to his Church: or that his faithful are many
in number.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 6:10

(e) Who [is] she [that] looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as the sun, [and] terrible
as [an army] with banners?



(e) He shows that the beginning of the Church was small, but that it grew up to a great multitude.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 6:11

<page=1621>I went down into the (f) garden of nuts to see the fruits of the valley, [and] to see whether the vine
flourished, [and] the pomegranates budded.



(f) He went down into the synagogue to see what fruits came from the law, and the prophets.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 6:12

(g) Before I was aware, my soul made me (h) [like] the chariots of Amminadib.



(g) I found nothing but rebellion.



(h) Or, Set me on the chariots of my willing people.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 6:13

Return, return, O (i) Shulamite; return, return, that we may look upon thee. What will ye see in the
Shulamite? As it were the company of two armies.



(i) O ye people of Jerusalem, for Jerusalem was called Shalem which signifies peace.

<page=1622>Song of Solomon (Canticles) Chapter 7

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 7:1

How beautiful are thy (a) feet with shoes, O prince's daughter! the joints of thy thighs [are] like
jewels, the work of the hands of a skilful workman.



(a) He describes the comely beauty of the Church in every part, which is to be understood spiritually.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 7:3

(b) Thy two breasts [are] like two young roes [that are] twins.



(b) See Sol 4:5

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 7:5

Thy head upon thee [is] like Carmel, and the hair of thy head like purple; the king [is] (c) held
captive by [its] locks of hair.



(c) He delights to come near you, and to be in your company.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 7:10

(d) I [am] my beloved's, and his desire [is] toward me.



(d) This the spouse speaks.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 7:12

Let us get up early to the vineyards; let us see if the (e) vine flourisheth, [whether] the tender grape
appeareth, [and] the pomegranates bud forth: there will I give thee my loves.



(e) If the people that are called to Christ bring forth any fruit.

<page=1623>Song of Solomon (Canticles) Chapter 8

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 8:1

O (a) that thou [wert] as my brother, that was nourished at the breasts of my mother! [when] I
should find thee outside, I would kiss thee; yea, I should not be despised.



(a) The Church called of the Gentiles speaks thus to the Church of Jerusalem.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 8:3

(b) His left hand [should be] under my head, and his right hand should embrace me.



(b) Read (Sol 2:6).

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 8:4

(c) I charge you, O daughters of Jerusalem, that ye stir not, nor awake [my] love, until he please.



(c) Read (Sol 3:5).

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 8:6

(d) Set me as a seal upon thy heart, as a seal upon thy arm: for love [is] strong as death; jealousy [is]
cruel as the grave: the coals of it [are] coals of fire, [which hath a] most vehement flame.



(d) The spouse desires Christ to be joined in perpetual love with him.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 8:8

(e) We have a little sister, and she hath no breasts: what shall we do for our sister in the day when she
shall be spoken for?



(e) The Jewish Church speaks this of the Church of the Gentiles.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 8:9

(f) If she [is] a wall, we will build upon her a palace of silver: and if she [is] a door, we will inclose
her with boards of cedar.



(f) If she is sure and fast, she is fit for her husband to dwell in.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 8:10

<page=1624>(g) I [am] a wall, and my breasts like towers: then was I in his eyes as one that found favour.

(g) The Church promises fidelity and constancy.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 8:11

(h) Solomon had a vineyard at Baalhamon; he let out the vineyard to keepers; every one for the fruit
of it was to bring a thousand [pieces] of silver.



(h) This is the vineyard of the Lord hired out, (<bcv=Mat 21:33>Mat 21:33</bcv>).

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 8:13

Thou that dwellest in the (i) gardens, the companions hearken to thy voice: cause me to hear [it].



(i) Christ dwells in his Church, whose voice the faithful hear.

Song of Solomon (Canticles) 8:14

(k) Make haste, my beloved, and be thou like a roe or a young hart upon the mountains of spices.



(k) The Church desires Christ that if he depart from them, yet he would haste to help them in their
troubles.

<h1>Isaiah</h1>


<h2>Isaiah 1</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 1:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:1>Isaiah 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=1625>The (a) vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw (b) concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the
days of (c) Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, [and] Hezekiah, kings of Judah.



The Argument - God, according to his promise in (<bcv=Deu 18:15>Deu 18:15</bcv>) that he would never leave his Church
destitute of a prophet, has from time to time accomplished the same: whose office was not only to
declare to the people the things to come, of which they had a special revelation, but also to interpret
and declare the law, and to apply particularly the doctrine contained briefly in it, for the use and
profit of those to whom they thought it chiefly to belong, and as the time and state of things
required. Principally in the declaration of the law, they had respect to three things which were the
ground of their doctrine: first, to the doctrine contained briefly in the two tables: secondly to the
promises and threatenings of the law: and thirdly to the covenant of grace and reconciliation
grounded on our Saviour Jesus Christ, who is the end of the law. To which they neither added nor
diminished, but faithfully expounded the sense and meaning of it. As God gave them understanding
of things, they applied the promises particularly for the comfort of the Church and the members of
it, and also denounced the menaces against the enemies of the same: not for any care or regard to
the enemies, but to assure the Church of their safeguard by the destruction of their enemies.
Concerning the doctrine of reconciliation, they have more clearly entreated it than Moses, and set
forth more lively Jesus Christ, in whom this covenant of reconciliation was made. In all these things
Isaiah surpassed all the prophets, and was diligent to set out the same, with vehement admonitions,
reprehensions, and consolations: ever applying the doctrine as he saw that the disease of the people
required. He declares also many notable prophecies which he had received from God, concerning
the promise of the Messiah, his office and kingdom, the favour of God toward his Church, the
calling of the Gentiles and their union with the Jews. Which are principal points contained in this
book, and a gathering of his sermons that he preached. Which after certain days that they had stood
upon the temple door (for the manner of the prophets was to post the sum of their doctrine for
certain days, that the people might the better mark it as in (<bcv=Isa 8:1>Isa 8:1</bcv>;<bcv=Hab 2:2> Hab 2:2</bcv>)) the priests took it down
and reserved it among their registers. By God's providence these books were preserved as a
monument to the Church forever. Concerning his person and time he was of the king's stock (for
Amos his father was brother to Azariah king of Judah, as the best writers agree) and prophesied
more than 64 years, from the time of Uzziah to the reign of Manasseh who was his son-in-law (as
the Hebrews write) and by whom he was put to death. In reading of the prophets, this one thing
among others is to be observed, that they speak of things to come as though they were now past
because of the certainty of it, and that they could not but come to pass, because God had ordained
them in his secret counsel and so revealed them to his prophets.

<page=1626>(a) That is, a revelation or prophecy, which was one of the two means by which God declared
himself to his servants in old times, as in (<bcv=Num 12:6>Num 12:6</bcv>) and therefore the prophets were called seers,



(<bcv=I Sa 9:9>Sa1 9:9</bcv>).



(b) Isaiah was chiefly sent to Judah and Jerusalem, but not only: for in this book are prophecies
concerning other nations also.



(c) Called also Azariah, (<bcv=II Ki 15:1>Kg2 15:1</bcv>) of these kings read (2Ki. 14:1-21:1; 2Ch. 25:1-33:1).
#BCV:Isaiah 1:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:2>Isaiah 1:2</verse></h3>



Hear, O (d) heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the LORD hath spoken, I have nourished and
brought up (e) children, and they have rebelled against me.



(d) Because men were obstinate and insensible, he calls to the dumb creatures, who were more
prompt to obey God's word, as in (<bcv=Deu 32:1>Deu 32:1</bcv>).



(e) He declares his great mercy toward the Jews as he chose them above all other nations to be his
people and children as in (<bcv=Deu 10:15>Deu 10:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 1:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:3>Isaiah 1:3</verse></h3>



The (f) ox knoweth his owner, and the donkey his master's crib: [but] Israel doth not know, my
people doth not consider.



(f) The most dull and brute beasts acknowledge their duty more toward their masters, than my
people do toward me, of whom they have received benefits without comparison.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:4>Isaiah 1:4</verse></h3>



Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a (g) seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters:
they have forsaken the LORD, they have provoked the (h) Holy One of Israel to anger, they are
gone away backward.



(g) They were not only wicked as were their fathers, but utterly corrupt and by their evil example
infected others.



(h) That is, him that sanctifies Israel.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:5>Isaiah 1:5</verse></h3>



Why should ye be (i) stricken any more? ye will revolt more and more: the whole (k) head is sick, and
the whole heart faint.

<page=1627>(i) What good is it to seek to mend you by punishment, seeing that the more I correct you, the more
you rebel?



(k) By naming the chief parts of the body, he signifies that there was no part of the whole body of
the Jews free from his rods.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:6>Isaiah 1:6</verse></h3>



From the (l) sole of the foot even to the head [there is] no soundness in it; [but] wounds, and bruises,
and putrifying sores: they have not been closed, (m) neither bound up, neither mollified with
ointment.



(l) Every part of the body, the least as well as the chiefest was plagued.



(m) Their plagues were so grievous that they were incurable, and yet they would not repent.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:7>Isaiah 1:7</verse></h3>



Your country [is] desolate, your cities [are] burned with fire: your land, foreigners devour it in your
presence, and [it is] desolate, as overthrown by (n) foreigners.



(n) Meaning, of them who dwell far off, who because they look for no advantage of that which
remains destroy all before them.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:8>Isaiah 1:8</verse></h3>



And the daughter of (o) Zion is left as a booth in a vineyard, as a lodge in a garden of cucumbers, as
a besieged city.



(o) That is, Jerusalem.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:9>Isaiah 1:9</verse></h3>



Except the LORD of hosts (p) had left to us a very small remnant, we should have been (q) as
Sodom, we should have been like Gomorrah.



(p) Because he will always have a Church to call on his Name.



(q) That is, all destroyed.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:10>Isaiah 1:10</verse></h3>



Hear the word of the LORD, ye (r) rulers of Sodom; give ear to the law of our God, ye people of
Gomorrah.

<page=1628>(r) You who for your vices deserved to be destroyed, as they of Sodom, save that God from his
mercy reserved a little number, (<bcv=Lam 3:22>Lam 3:22</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 1:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:11>Isaiah 1:11</verse></h3>



To what purpose [is] the multitude of your sacrifices to me? saith the LORD: I am full of the burnt
offerings of rams, and the fat of fed beasts; and I (s) delight not in the blood of bulls, or of lambs,
or of male goats.



(s) Although God commanded these sacrifices for a time, as aids and exercises of their faith, yet
because the people did not have faith or repentance, God detests them, (<bcv=Psa 50:13>Psa 50:13</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 6:20> Jer 6:20</bcv>; <bcv=Amo 5:22>Amo 5:22;</bcv><bcv=Mic 6:7> Mic 6:7</bcv>).

#BCV:Isaiah 1:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:13>Isaiah 1:13</verse></h3>




(t) Bring no more vain oblations; incense is an abomination to me; the new moons and sabbaths, the
calling of assemblies, I cannot endure; [it is] iniquity, even the solemn meeting.



(t) Without faith and repentance.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:14>Isaiah 1:14</verse></h3>



Your (u) new moons and your appointed feasts my soul hateth: they are a trouble to me; I am weary
of bearing [them].



(u) Your sacrifices offered in the new moons and feasts: he condemns by this hypocrites who think
to please God with ceremonies and they themselves are void of faith and mercy.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:15>Isaiah 1:15</verse></h3>



And when ye spread forth your hands, I will hide my eyes from you: yea, when ye make many
prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full (x) of blood.



(x) He shows that where men are given to evil, deceit, cruelty and extortion, which is meant by
blood, there God will show his anger and not accept them though they seem holy, as in (<bcv=Isa 59:3>Isa 59:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 1:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:16>Isaiah 1:16</verse></h3>




(y) Wash ye, make yourselves clean; put away the evil of your doings from before my eyes; cease to
do evil;



(y) By this outward washing, he means the spiritual: exhorting the Jews to repent and amend their
lives.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:17>Isaiah 1:17</verse></h3>

<page=1629>Learn to (z) do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.



(z) This kind of reasoning by the second table, the scriptures use in many places against the
hypocrites who pretend holiness and religion in word, but when charity and love for their brethren
should appear they declare that they have neither faith nor religion.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:18>Isaiah 1:18</verse></h3>



Come now, (a) and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins are as scarlet, they shall
be (b) white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.



(a) To know if I accuse you without cause.



(b) Lest sinners should pretend any rigour on God's part, he only wills them to be pure in heart, and
he will forgive all their sins, no matter how many or great.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:19>Isaiah 1:19</verse></h3>



If ye (c) are willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land:



(c) He shows that whatever adversity man endures, it ought to be attributed to his own incredulity
and disobedience.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:21>Isaiah 1:21</verse></h3>



How is the (d) faithful city become an harlot! it was full of judgment; righteousness lodged in it; but
now (e) murderers.



(d) That is, Jerusalem, which had promised happiness to me, as a wife to her husband.



(e) Given to covetousness and extortion, which he signified before by blood, (<bcv=Isa 1:15>Isa 1:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 1:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:22>Isaiah 1:22</verse></h3>



Thy (f) silver is become dross, thy wine mixed with water:



(f) Whatever was pure in you before, is now corrupt, though you have an outward show.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:23
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:23>Isaiah 1:23</verse></h3>



Thy princes [are] rebellious, and companions of (g) thieves: every one loveth bribes, and followeth
after rewards: they judge not the fatherless, neither doth the cause of the widow come to them.

<page=1630>(g) That is, they maintain the wicked and the extortioners: and not only do not punish them, but are
themselves such.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:24
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:24>Isaiah 1:24</verse></h3>



Therefore saith the Lord, the LORD of hosts, the (h) mighty One of Israel, Ah, I will (i) rid myself
of my adversaries, and avenge me of my enemies:



(h) When God will show himself merciful to his Church, he calls himself the Holy one of Israel, but
when he has to do with his enemies, he is called Mighty, as against whom no power is able to resist.



(i) I will take vengeance of my adversaries the Jews and so satisfy my desire by punishing them.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:25
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:25>Isaiah 1:25</verse></h3>



And I will turn my hand upon thee, and thoroughly purge away thy dross, (k) and take away all thy
tin:



(k) Lest the faithful among them should be overcome with his threatening he adds this consolation.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:26
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:26>Isaiah 1:26</verse></h3>




(l) And I will restore thy judges as at the first, and thy counsellors as at the beginning: afterward thou
shalt be called, The city of righteousness, the faithful city.



(l) It is once the work of God to purify the heart of man, which he does because of his promise,
made concerning the salvation of his Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:27
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:27>Isaiah 1:27</verse></h3>



Zion shall be redeemed with (m) judgment, and her converts with righteousness.



(m) By justice is meant God's faithful promise, which is the reason for the deliverance of his Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 1:28
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:28>Isaiah 1:28</verse></h3>



And the (n) destruction of the transgressors and of the sinners [shall be] together, and they that
forsake the LORD shall be consumed.



(n) The wicked will not be partakers of God's promise, (<bcv=Psa 92:9>Psa 92:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 1:29
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:29>Isaiah 1:29</verse></h3>

<page=1631>For they shall be ashamed of the (o) oaks which ye have desired, and ye shall be confounded for the
gardens that ye have chosen.



(o) That is, the trees and pleasant places where you commit idolatry which was forbidden (<bcv=Deu 16:22>Deu 16:22</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 1:31
<h3><verse=Isaiah 1:31>Isaiah 1:31</verse></h3>



And the strong shall be as a (p) wick, and its maker as a spark, and they shall both burn together,
and none shall quench [them].



(p) The false god's in which you put your confidence will be consumed as easily as a piece of wick.

<h2>Isaiah 2</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 2:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 2:2>Isaiah 2:2</verse></h3>

<page=1632>And it (a) shall come to pass in the last days, [that] the mount of the LORD'S house (b) shall be
established on the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall (c)
flow to it.



(a) The decree and ordinance of God, concerning the restoration of the Church, which is chiefly
meant by the time of Christ.



(b) In an evident place to be seen and discerned.



(c) When the kingdom of Christ will be enlarged by the preaching of the doctrine. Here also is
declared the zeal of the children of God when they are called.
#BCV:Isaiah 2:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 2:3>Isaiah 2:3</verse></h3>



And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to (d) the mountain of the LORD, to
the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for
out of Zion shall go forth the (e) law, and the word of the LORD from (f) Jerusalem.



(d) Alluding to mount Zion, where the visible Church then was.



(e) Meaning, the whole doctrine of salvation.



(f) This was accomplished when the gospel was first preached in Jerusalem, and from there went
through all the world.
#BCV:Isaiah 2:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 2:4>Isaiah 2:4</verse></h3>



And (g) he shall judge among the nations, and shall (h) rebuke many people: and they shall (i) beat
their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up sword
against nation, neither shall they learn (k) war any more.



(g) The Lord, who is Christ, will have all power given to him.



(h) That they may acknowledge their sins, and turn to him.



(i) He shows the fruit of the peace which the gospel should bring, that is, that men should do good
to one another, while before they were enemies.



(k) He speaks not against the use of weapons and lawful war, but shows how the hearts of the godly
will be affected one toward another, which peace and love begin and grow in this life, but will be
perfected when we are joined with our head Jesus Christ.
#BCV:Isaiah 2:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 2:5>Isaiah 2:5</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 2:5
<h3><verse=isa 2:5>isa 2:5</verse></h3>




(l) Seeing the Gentiles will be ready, make haste, and show them the way to worship God.
#BCV:Isaiah 2:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 2:6>Isaiah 2:6</verse></h3>



Therefore thou (m) hast forsaken thy people the house of Jacob, because they are (n) filled [with
customs] from the east, and [are] soothsayers like the Philistines, (o) and they please themselves in
the children of foreigners.



(m) The prophet seeing the small hope that the Jews would convert, complains to God as though he
had utterly forsaken them for their sins.



(n) Full of the corruptions that reigned chiefly in the east parts.



(o) They altogether gave themselves to the fashions of other nations.
#BCV:Isaiah 2:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 2:7>Isaiah 2:7</verse></h3>



Their land also is full of (p) silver and gold, neither [is there any] end of their treasures; their land is
also full of horses, neither [is there any] end of their chariots:



(p) The prophet first condemned their superstition and idolatry next their covetousness and thirdly
their vain trust in worldly means.
#BCV:Isaiah 2:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 2:9>Isaiah 2:9</verse></h3>



And the mean man boweth down, and the great man (q) humbleth himself: therefore (r) forgive
them not.



(q) He notes the nature of the idolaters who are never satisfied in their superstitions.



(r) Thus the prophet spoke being inflamed with the zeal of God's glory, and that he might fear them
with God's judgment.
#BCV:Isaiah 2:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 2:11>Isaiah 2:11</verse></h3>



The lofty looks of man shall be humbled, and the haughtiness of men shall be abased, and the
LORD alone shall be exalted in (s) that day.



(s) Meaning, as soon as God will begin to execute his judgments.
#BCV:Isaiah 2:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 2:14>Isaiah 2:14</verse></h3>

<page=1634>And upon all the high (t) mountains, and upon all the hills [that are] lifted up,



(t) By high trees and mountains are he means the proud and lofty, who think themselves most strong
in this world.
#BCV:Isaiah 2:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 2:16>Isaiah 2:16</verse></h3>



And upon (u) all the ships of Tarshish, and upon all pleasant pictures.



(u) He condemns their vain confidence which they had in strongholds and in their rich merchandise
which brought in vain pleasures with which men's minds became effeminate.
#BCV:Isaiah 2:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 2:20>Isaiah 2:20</verse></h3>



In that day a man shall cast his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which they made [each one] for
himself to worship, (x) to the moles and to the bats;



(x) They will cast them into vile and filthy places when they perceive that they are not able to help
them.
#BCV:Isaiah 2:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 2:22>Isaiah 2:22</verse></h3>



Cease ye from man, whose (y) breath [is] in his nostrils: for why is he to be esteemed?



(y) Cast off your vain confidence in man, whose life is so frail that if his nose is stopped he is dead
and consider that you are dealing with God.

<h2>Isaiah 3</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 3:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 3:1>Isaiah 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=1635>For, behold, the Lord, the LORD of hosts, doth take away from Jerusalem and from Judah the rod



(a) and the staff, the whole support of bread, and the whole support of water,



(a) Because they trusted in their abundance and prosperity he shows that they should be taken from
them.
#BCV:Isaiah 3:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 3:2>Isaiah 3:2</verse></h3>



The mighty man, and the man of war, (b) the judge, and the prophet, and the prudent, and the
ancient,



(b) The temporal governor and the minister.
#BCV:Isaiah 3:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 3:3>Isaiah 3:3</verse></h3>



The captain of fifty, and the honourable man, and the counsellor, and the skilful craftsman, and the



(c) eloquent orator.



(c) By these he means that God would take away everything that was of any value, and which they
had any opportunity to want in themselves.
#BCV:Isaiah 3:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 3:4>Isaiah 3:4</verse></h3>



And I will give (d) children [to be] their princes, and babes shall rule over them.



(d) Not only in age: but in manners, knowledge and strength.
#BCV:Isaiah 3:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 3:5>Isaiah 3:5</verse></h3>



And the people shall be (e) oppressed, every one by another, and every one by his neighbour: the
child shall behave himself proudly against the elder, and the base against the honourable.



(e) For lack of good regiment and order.
#BCV:Isaiah 3:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 3:6>Isaiah 3:6</verse></h3>



When a man shall (f) take hold of his brother of the house of his father, [saying], Thou hast
clothing, be thou our ruler, and [let] this ruin [be] under thy hand:

<page=1636>(f) He shows that this plague will be so horrible that contrary to the common manner of men, who
by nature are ambitious, no one will be found able or willing to be their governor.
#BCV:Isaiah 3:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 3:7>Isaiah 3:7</verse></h3>



In that day shall he (g) swear, saying, I will not be an healer; for in my house [is] neither bread nor
clothing: make me not a ruler of the people.



(g) Fear will cause him to forswear himself, rather than to take such a dangerous charge upon
himself.
#BCV:Isaiah 3:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 3:9>Isaiah 3:9</verse></h3>



The (h) show of their countenance doth witness against them; and they declare their sin as Sodom,
they hide [it] not. Woe to their soul! for they have rewarded evil to themselves.



(h) When God examines their deed on which they now set an impudent face, he will find the mark
of their impiety in their forehead.
#BCV:Isaiah 3:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 3:10>Isaiah 3:10</verse></h3>




(i) Say ye to the righteous, that [it shall be] well [with him]: for they shall eat the fruit of their doings.



(i) You that are godly be assured that God will defend you in the midst of these troubles.
#BCV:Isaiah 3:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 3:12>Isaiah 3:12</verse></h3>



[As for] my people, (k) children [are] their oppressors, and women rule over them. O my people,
they who lead thee cause [thee] to err, and destroy the way of thy paths.



(k) Because the wicked people were more addicted to their princes than to the commandments of
God, he shows that he would give them such princes, by whom they would have no help, but that
they would be manifest tokens of his wrath, because they would be fools and effeminate.
#BCV:Isaiah 3:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 3:14>Isaiah 3:14</verse></h3>



The LORD will enter into judgment with the (l) elders of his people, and with their princes: for ye
have eaten up the vineyard; the spoil of the poor [is] in your houses.



(l) Meaning that the rulers and governors had destroyed his Church and not preserved it, according
to their duty.
#BCV:Isaiah 3:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 3:15>Isaiah 3:15</verse></h3>

<page=1637>What mean ye [that] ye beat my people to pieces, (m) and grind the faces of the poor? saith the Lord
GOD of hosts.



(m) That is, you show all cruelty against them.
#BCV:Isaiah 3:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 3:16>Isaiah 3:16</verse></h3>



Moreover the LORD saith, (n) Because the daughters of Zion are haughty, and walk with (o)
extended necks and (p) wanton eyes, walking and (q) mincing [as] they go, and making a (r) tinkling
with their feet:



(n) He means the people because of the arrogancy and pride of their women who gave themselves
to all wantonness and dissolution.



(o) Which declared their pride.



(p) As a sign that they were not chaste.



(q) Which showed their wantonness.



(r) They delighted then in slippers that creaked or had little plates sewn on them which tinkled as
they went.
#BCV:Isaiah 3:23
<h3><verse=Isaiah 3:23>Isaiah 3:23</verse></h3>



The mirrors, and the fine linen, and the turbans, and the (s) veils.



(s) In rehearsing all these things particularly he shows the lightness and vanity of such as cannot be
content with comely apparel according to their degree.
#BCV:Isaiah 3:25
<h3><verse=Isaiah 3:25>Isaiah 3:25</verse></h3>



Thy men shall fall by the (t) sword, and thy mighty in the war.



(t) Meaning that God will not only punish the women but their husbands who have permitted this
dissoluteness and also the commonwealth which has not remedied it.

<h2>Isaiah 4</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 4:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 4:1>Isaiah 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=1638>And in that day (a) seven women shall take hold of one man, saying, We will eat our own bread, and
wear our own apparel: only (b) let us be called by thy name, to take away our (c) reproach.



(a) When God will executes this vengeance there will not be one man found to be the head to many
women, and they contrary to womanly shamefacedness will seek men, and offer themselves under
any condition.



(b) He our husband and let us be called your wives.



(c) For so they thought it to be without a head and husband.
#BCV:Isaiah 4:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 4:2>Isaiah 4:2</verse></h3>



In that day shall the (d) branch of the LORD be beautiful and glorious, and the fruit of the earth
[shall be] the pride and glory of them that have escaped of Israel.



(d) He comforts the Church in this desolation which will spring up like a bud signifying that God's
graces should be as plentiful toward the faithful as though they sprang out of the earth, as in (<bcv=Isa 45:8>Isa 45:8</bcv>). 
Some by the bud of the Lord mean Christ.

#BCV:Isaiah 4:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 4:3>Isaiah 4:3</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, [that he that is] left in Zion, and [he that] remaineth in Jerusalem, shall be
called holy, [even] every one that is (e) written among the living in Jerusalem:



(e) He alludes to the book of life, of which read (<bcv=Exo 32:32>Exo 32:32</bcv>) meaning God's secret counsel, in which
his elect are predestinated to life everlasting.
#BCV:Isaiah 4:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 4:4>Isaiah 4:4</verse></h3>



When the Lord shall have washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion, and shall have purged the



(f) blood of Jerusalem from the midst of it by the spirit of (g) judgment, and by the spirit of
burning.



(f) That is, the cruelty, extortion, malice and all wickedness.



(g) When things will be addressed that were amiss.
#BCV:Isaiah 4:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 4:5>Isaiah 4:5</verse></h3>

<page=1639>And the LORD will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, (h) a
cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the (i) glory [shall be]
a defence.



(h) He alludes to the pillar of the cloud, (<bcv=Exo 13:21>Exo 13:21</bcv>), meaning that God's favour and protection
should appear in every place.



(i) The faithful are called the glory of God because his image and tokens of his grace shine in them.
#BCV:Isaiah 4:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 4:6>Isaiah 4:6</verse></h3>



And there shall be a tabernacle for a shade in the daytime from the heat, and for a place of refuge,
and for a covert from storm (k) and from rain.



(k) God promises to be the defence of his Church against all troubles and dangers.

<h2>Isaiah 5</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 5:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:1>Isaiah 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=1640>Now will (a) I sing to my (b) wellbeloved a song of my beloved concerning his vineyard. My
wellbeloved hath a (c) vineyard in a very fruitful hill:



(a) The prophet by this song sets before the people's eyes their ingratitude and God's mercy.



(b) That is, to God.



(c) Meaning that he had planted his Church in a place most plentiful and abundant.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:2>Isaiah 5:2</verse></h3>



And he dug it, and removed its stones, and planted it with the choicest vine, (d) and built a tower in
the midst of it, and also made a winepress in it: and he expected that it should bring forth grapes,
and it brought forth (e) wild grapes.



(d) He spared no diligence or cost.



(e) In (<bcv=Isa 5:7>Isa 5:7</bcv>) he declares what they were.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:3>Isaiah 5:3</verse></h3>



And now, O inhabitants of Jerusalem, and men of Judah, judge, I pray you, (f) between me and my
vineyard.



(f) He makes them judges in their own cause, for as much as it was evident that they were the cause
of their own ruin.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:5>Isaiah 5:5</verse></h3>



And now come; I will tell you what I will do to my vineyard: I (g) will take away its hedge, and it
shall be eaten up; [and] break down the wall of it, and it shall be trodden down:



(g) I will take no more care for it: meaning, that he would take from them his word and ministers
and all other comforts, and feed them contrary plagues.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:7>Isaiah 5:7</verse></h3>



For the vineyard of the LORD of hosts [is] the house of Israel, and the men of Judah his pleasant
plant: and he looked for (h) judgment, but behold oppression; for righteousness, but behold (i) a cry.

<page=1641>(h) Judgment and righteousness are true fruit of the fear of God and therefore in the cruel
oppression there is no religion.



(i) Of them who are oppressed.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:8>Isaiah 5:8</verse></h3>



Woe to them that join house to house, [that] lay field to field, till [there is] no (k) place, that they may
be placed alone in the midst of the earth!



(k) That is, for the poor to dwell in.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:9>Isaiah 5:9</verse></h3>



In my (l) ears [said] the LORD of hosts, Of a truth many houses shall be desolate, [even] great and
fair, without inhabitant.



(l) I have heard the complaint and cry of the poor.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:10>Isaiah 5:10</verse></h3>



Yea, ten acres of vineyard shall yield one (m) bath, and the seed of an (n) homer shall yield an (o)
ephah.



(m) Which contains about 5 gallons, so that every acre would yield only half a gallon.



(n) Which contains 50 gallons.



(o) An ephah contains 5 gallons and is in dry things as much as a bath is in liquids.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:11>Isaiah 5:11</verse></h3>



Woe to them that (p) rise early in the morning, [that] they may follow strong drink; that continue
until (q) night, [till] wine inflames them!



(p) Who spare no pain nor diligence to follow their lusts.



(q) Who are never weary of their rioting and excessive pleasures but use all means to provoke to the
same.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:12>Isaiah 5:12</verse></h3>



And the harp, and the viol, the tabret, and pipe, and wine, are in their feasts: but they regard not the



(r) work of the LORD, neither consider the operation of his hands.



(r) They do not regard the provident care of God over them, nor for what end he has created them.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:13>Isaiah 5:13</verse></h3>

<page=1642>Therefore my people (s) have gone into captivity, because [they have] (t) no knowledge: and their
honourable men [are] famished, and their multitude dried up with thirst.



(s) That is, will certainly go: for so the prophets use to speak as though the thing which will come to
pass were done already.



(t) Because they would not obey the word of God.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:14>Isaiah 5:14</verse></h3>



Therefore (u) hell hath enlarged herself, and opened her mouth without measure: and their glory,
and their multitude, and their pomp, and he that rejoiceth, shall descend into it.



(u) Meaning, the grave will swallow up them who will die for hunger and thirst, and yet for all this
great destruction it will never be satisfied.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:17>Isaiah 5:17</verse></h3>



Then shall (x) the lambs feed after their manner, and the waste places of the fat ones shall strangers
eat.



(x) God comforts the poor lambs of his Church, who had been strangers in other countries,
promising that they would dwell in these places again, of which they had been deprived by the fat
and cruel tyrants.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:18>Isaiah 5:18</verse></h3>



Woe to them that draw iniquity with (y) cords of vanity, and sin as it were with a cart rope:



(y) Who use all allurements, opportunities and excuses to harden their conscience in sin.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:19>Isaiah 5:19</verse></h3>



That say, (z) Let him make speed, [and] hasten his work, that we may see [it]: and let the counsel of
the Holy One of Israel draw near and come, that we may know [it]!



(z) He shows what are the words of the wicked, when they are menaced by God's judgments, (<bcv=2Pe 3:4>Pe2 3:4</bcv>).

#BCV:Isaiah 5:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:20>Isaiah 5:20</verse></h3>

<page=1643>Woe to them that call evil good, (a) and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness;
that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!



(a) Who are not ashamed of sin, nor care for honesty but are grown to a desperate impiety.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:21>Isaiah 5:21</verse></h3>



Woe to [them that are] (b) wise in their own eyes, and prudent in their own sight!



(b) Who contemn all doctrine and admonition.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:22>Isaiah 5:22</verse></h3>



Woe to [them that are] (c) mighty to drink wine, and men of strength to mix strong drink:



(c) Who are never weary, but show their strength, and brag in gluttony and drunkenness.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:24
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:24>Isaiah 5:24</verse></h3>



Therefore as the fire devoureth the stubble, and the flame consumeth the chaff, [so] their (d) root
shall be as rottenness, and their blossom shall go up as dust: because they have cast away the law of
the LORD of hosts, and despised the word of the Holy One of Israel.



(d) Both they and their posterity so that nothing will be left.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:25
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:25>Isaiah 5:25</verse></h3>



Therefore is the anger of the LORD kindled against his people, and he hath stretched forth his (e)
hand against them, and hath smitten them: and the hills trembled, and their carcases [were] torn in
the midst of the streets. For all this his anger is not turned away, but his hand [is] stretched out still.



(e) He shows that God had so sore punished this people, that the dumb creatures if they had been
so plagued would have been more sensible, and therefore his plagues must continue, till they begin
to seal them.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:26
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:26>Isaiah 5:26</verse></h3>



And he will lift up an ensign (f) to the nations from afar, and will hiss to them from the end of the
earth: and, behold, they shall come with speed swiftly:



(f) He will make the Babylonians come against them at his beck, and to fight under his standard.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:27
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:27>Isaiah 5:27</verse></h3>

<page=1644>None shall (g) be weary nor stumble among them; none shall slumber nor sleep; neither shall the
belt of their loins be loosed, nor (h) the latchet of their shoes be broken:



(g) They will be prompt and lusty to execute God's vengeance.



(h) The enemy will have no impediment.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:29
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:29>Isaiah 5:29</verse></h3>



Their roaring [shall be] like a lion, they shall roar like young lions: yea, they shall (i) roar, and lay hold
of the prey, and shall carry [it] away safe, and none shall deliver [it].



(i) By which is declared the cruelty of the enemy.
#BCV:Isaiah 5:30
<h3><verse=Isaiah 5:30>Isaiah 5:30</verse></h3>



And in that day they shall roar against them like the roaring of the sea: and if (k) [one] looketh to
the land, behold darkness [and] sorrow, and the light is darkened in its (l) heavens.



(k) The Jews will find no comfort.



(l) In the land of Judah.

<h2>Isaiah 6</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 6:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 6:1>Isaiah 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=1645>In the year that king Uzziah died (a) I saw also the Lord sitting upon a (b) throne, high and lifted up,
and his (c) train filled the temple.



(a) God does not show himself to man in his majesty but according as man's capacity to
comprehend him, that is, by visible signs as John the Baptist saw the Holy Spirit in the form of a
dove.



(b) As a judge ready to give sentence.



(c) Of his garment, or of his throne.
#BCV:Isaiah 6:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 6:2>Isaiah 6:2</verse></h3>



Above it stood the (d) seraphims: each one had six wings; with two he covered his (e) face, and with
two he covered his (f) feet, and with two he (g) flew.



(d) They were angels so called because they were of a fiery colour, to signify that they burnt in the
love of God, or were light as fire to execute his will.



(e) Signifying that they were not able to endure the brightness of God's glory.



(f) By which it was declared that man was not able to see the brightness of God in them.



(g) Which declares the prompt obedience of the angels to execute God's commandment.
#BCV:Isaiah 6:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 6:3>Isaiah 6:3</verse></h3>



And one cried to another, and said, (h) Holy, holy, holy, [is] the LORD of hosts: the whole (i) earth
[is] full of his glory.



(h) This often repetition signifies that the angels cannot satisfy themselves in praising God, to teach
us that in all our lives we should give ourselves to the continual praise of God.



(i) His glory not only appears in the heavens but through all the world, and therefore all creatures are
bound to praise him.
#BCV:Isaiah 6:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 6:4>Isaiah 6:4</verse></h3>



And the posts of the door (k) moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with
smoke.



(k) Which was to confirm the prophet, that it was not the voice of man: and by the smoke was
signified the blindness that would come on the Jews.
#BCV:Isaiah 6:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 6:5>Isaiah 6:5</verse></h3>

<page=1646>Then said I, (l) Woe [is] me! for I am undone; because I [am] a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in
the midst of a people of unclean lips: for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts.



(l) He speaks this for two reasons, the one because he who was a mortal creature and therefore had
more need to glorify God than the angels, did not do it, and the other because the nearer that man
approaches to God, the more he knows his own sin and corruption.
#BCV:Isaiah 6:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 6:6>Isaiah 6:6</verse></h3>



Then one of the seraphims flew to me, having a live coal in his hand, [which] he had taken with the
tongs from off the (m) altar:



(m) Of the burnt offerings where the fire never went out.
#BCV:Isaiah 6:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 6:7>Isaiah 6:7</verse></h3>



And he laid [it] upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thy iniquity is taken
away, and thy (n) sin purged.



(n) This declares that man cannot render due obedience to God, till he has purged us.
#BCV:Isaiah 6:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 6:9>Isaiah 6:9</verse></h3>



And he said, Go, and tell this people, (o) Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but
perceive not.



(o) By which is declared that for the malice of man God will not immediately take away his word,
but he will cause it to be preached to their condemnation, when as they will not learn by it to obey
his will, and be saved: by this he exhorts the ministers to do their duty, and answers to the wicked
murmurers, that through their own malice their heart is hardened, (<bcv=Mat 13:14>Mat 13:14</bcv>;<bcv=Acts 28:26> Act 28:26</bcv>;<bcv=Rom 11:8> Rom 11:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 6:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 6:11>Isaiah 6:11</verse></h3>



Then said I, Lord, (p) how long? And he answered, Until the cities shall be wasted without
inhabitant, and the houses without man, and the land be utterly desolate,



(p) As he was moved with the zeal of God's glory, so was he touched with a charitable affection
toward the people.
#BCV:Isaiah 6:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 6:13>Isaiah 6:13</verse></h3>

<page=1647>But yet in it [shall be] (q) a tenth, and [it] shall return, and shall be eaten: as a teil tree, (r) and as an
oak, whose substance [is] in them, when they cast [their leaves: so] the holy seed [shall be] the
substance of it.



(q) Meaning, the tenth part: or as some write, it was revealed to Isaiah for the confirmation of his
prophecy that ten kings would come before their captivity, as were from Uzziah to Zedekiah.



(r) For the fewness of them they will seem to be eaten up: yet they will later flourish as a tree, which
in winter loses leaves, and seems to be dead, yet in summer is fresh and green.

<h2>Isaiah 7</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 7:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:1>Isaiah 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=1648>And it came to pass in the days of Ahaz the son of Jotham, the son of Uzziah, king of Judah, [that]Rezin the king of Syria, and Pekah the son of Remaliah, king of Israel, (a) went up toward Jerusalem
to war against it, but could not prevail against it.



(a) That is, the second time: for in the first battle Ahaz was overcome.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:2>Isaiah 7:2</verse></h3>



And it was told the house of (b) David, saying, Syria is confederate with (c) Ephraim. And his heart
was (d) moved, and the heart of his people, as the trees of the forest are moved with the wind.



(b) Meaning, the kings house.



(c) That is, Israel, because that tribe was the greatest, (<bcv=Gen 48:19>Gen 48:19</bcv>).



(d) For fear.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:3>Isaiah 7:3</verse></h3>



Then said the LORD to Isaiah, Go forth now to meet Ahaz, thou, and (e) Shearjashub thy son, at
the end of the conduit of the upper pool in the highway of the fuller's field;



(e) That is to say, the rest will return which name Isaiah gave his son, to signify that the rest of the
people would return out of their captivity.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:4>Isaiah 7:4</verse></h3>



And say to him, Take heed, and be quiet; fear not, neither be fainthearted for the two tails of these
smoking (f) firebrands, for the fierce anger of Rezin with Syria, and of the son of Remaliah.



(f) Which have but a little smoke and will quickly be quenched.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:6>Isaiah 7:6</verse></h3>



Let us go up against Judah, and trouble it, and let us conquer it for ourselves and set a king in the
midst of it, [even] the son of (g) Tabeal:



(g) Who was an Israelite, and as it seems, enemy to the house of David.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:8>Isaiah 7:8</verse></h3>

<page=1649>For the head of Syria [is] Damascus, and the head of Damascus [is] Rezin; and within (h) sixty five
years shall Ephraim be broken, that it be not a people.



(h) Counting from the 25 years of the reign of Uzziah, at which time Amos prophesied this thing,
and now Isaiah confirms that the Israelites would be led into perpetual captivity, which came to pass
20 years after Isaiah gave this message.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:11>Isaiah 7:11</verse></h3>



Ask thee (i) a sign from the LORD thy God; ask it either in the depth, or in the height above.



(i) For the confirmation of this thing that your enemies will be destroyed and you preserved.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:12>Isaiah 7:12</verse></h3>



But Ahaz said, I will not ask, neither will I (k) tempt the LORD.



(k) Not to believe God's word without a sign, is to tempt God, but to refuse a sign when God offers
it for the aid and help of our infirmity is to rebel against him.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:13>Isaiah 7:13</verse></h3>



And he said, Hear ye now, O house of David; [Is it] a small thing for you to weary (l) men, but will
ye weary my God also?



(l) You think you have to do with men when you contemn God's messengers but it is God against
whom you bend yourselves.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:14>Isaiah 7:14</verse></h3>



Therefore the Lord (m) himself shall give you a sign; Behold, the virgin shall conceive, and bear a
son, and shall call his name Immanuel.



(m) Forasmuch as you are unworthy, the Lord for his own promise sake will give a sign which will be
that Christ the Saviour of his Church and the effect of all signs and miracles will be revealed.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:15>Isaiah 7:15</verse></h3>




(n) Butter and honey shall he eat, that he may know to refuse the evil, and choose the good.



(n) Meaning that Christ is not only God, but man also, because he will be nourished as other men
until the age of discretion.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:16>Isaiah 7:16</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 7:16
<h3><verse=isa 7:16>isa 7:16</verse></h3>



abhorrest shall be forsaken by both her kings.



(o) Not meaning Christ, but any child: for before a child can come to the years of discretion, the
kings of Samaria and Syria will be destroyed.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:17>Isaiah 7:17</verse></h3>



The LORD shall bring upon thee, and upon thy people, and upon thy father's house, days that have
not come, from the day that (p) Ephraim departed from Judah; [even] the king of (q) Assyria.



(p) Since the time that the twelve tribes rebelled under Rehoboam.



(q) In whom you have put your trust.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:18>Isaiah 7:18</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] the LORD shall hiss for the (r) fly that [is] in the
uttermost part of the rivers of Egypt, and for the bee that [is] in the land of Assyria.



(r) Meaning, the Egyptians: for since the country is hot and moist, it is full of flies, as Assyria is full
of bees.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:19>Isaiah 7:19</verse></h3>



And they shall come, and shall rest all of them in the desolate valleys, and in the clefts of the rocks,
and upon all thorns, and upon all (s) bushes.



(s) Signifying that no place will be free from them.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:20>Isaiah 7:20</verse></h3>



In the same day shall the Lord shave with a razor that is hired, [namely], by them beyond the river,
by the king of Assyria, the head, and the hair of the (t) feet: and it shall also consume the beard.



(t) That is, that which is from the belly downward meaning that he would destroy both great and
small.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:21>Isaiah 7:21</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] a man shall (u) nourish a young cow, and two sheep;



(u) He who before had a great number of cattle will be content with one cow and two sheep.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:22>Isaiah 7:22</verse></h3>

<page=1651>And it shall come to pass, for the (x) abundance of milk [that] they shall give he shall eat butter: for
butter and honey shall every one eat that is left in the land.



(x) The number of men will be so small that a few beasts will be able to nourish all abundantly.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:24
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:24>Isaiah 7:24</verse></h3>



With arrows and with (y) bows shall [men] come there; because all the land shall become briers and
thorns.



(y) As they who go to seek wild beasts among the bushes.
#BCV:Isaiah 7:25
<h3><verse=Isaiah 7:25>Isaiah 7:25</verse></h3>



And [on] (z) all hills that shall be dug with the mattock, there shall not come there the fear of briers
and thorns: but it shall be for the sending forth of oxen, and for the treading of lesser cattle.



(z) The mountains contrary to their will, will be tilled by such as shall flee to them for comfort.

<h2>Isaiah 8</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 8:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:1>Isaiah 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=1652>Moreover the LORD said to me, Take thee a (a) great roll, and write in it (b) with a man's pen
concerning Mahershalalhashbaz.



(a) That you may write in great letters to the intent that it may be more easily read.



(b) Meaning, after the common fashion, because all men might read it.
#BCV:Isaiah 8:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:2>Isaiah 8:2</verse></h3>



And I took to me (c) faithful witnesses to record, Uriah the priest, and Zechariah the son of
Jeberechiah.



(c) Because the thing was of great importance, he took these two witnesses, who were of credit with
the people, when he set this up upon the door of the temple, even though Uriah was a flattering
hypocrite, (<bcv=II Ki 16:11>Kg2 16:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 8:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:3>Isaiah 8:3</verse></h3>



And I went to the (d) prophetess; and she conceived, and bore a son. Then said the LORD to me,
Call his name Mahershalalhashbaz.



(d) Meaning, to his wife and this was done in a vision.
#BCV:Isaiah 8:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:4>Isaiah 8:4</verse></h3>



For before the (e) child shall have knowledge to cry, My father, and my mother, the riches of
Damascus and the spoil of Samaria shall be taken away before the (f) king of Assyria.



(e) Before any child is able to speak.



(f) That is, the army of Assyria.
#BCV:Isaiah 8:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:6>Isaiah 8:6</verse></h3>



Forasmuch as this people refuseth the waters of (g) Shiloah that flow gently, and rejoice in Rezin
and Remaliah's son;



(g) Which was a fountain at the foot of mount Zion, out of which ran a small river through the city:
meaning, that they of Judah distrusting their own power which was small desired such power and
riches as they saw in Syria and Israel.
#BCV:Isaiah 8:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:7>Isaiah 8:7</verse></h3>

<page=1653>Now therefore, behold, the Lord bringeth up upon them the waters of (h) the river, strong and
many, [even] the king of Assyria, and all his glory: and he shall come up over all its channels, and go
over all its banks:



(h) That is, the Assyrians who dwell beyond Euphrates.
#BCV:Isaiah 8:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:8>Isaiah 8:8</verse></h3>



And he shall pass through Judah; he shall overflow and go over, he shall reach [even] to the (i) neck;
and the spread of his wings shall fill the breadth of thy land, O (k) Immanuel.



(i) It will be ready to drown them.



(k) He speaks this to Messiah, or Christ, in whom the faithful were comforted and who would not
suffer his Church to be destroyed utterly.
#BCV:Isaiah 8:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:9>Isaiah 8:9</verse></h3>



Associate yourselves, O ye (l) people, and ye shall be broken in pieces; and give ear, all ye of far
countries: gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in pieces; gird yourselves, and ye shall be broken in
pieces.



(l) That is, you who are enemies to the Church, as the Assyrians, Egyptians, Syrians etc.
#BCV:Isaiah 8:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:11>Isaiah 8:11</verse></h3>



For the LORD spoke thus to me (m) with a strong hand, and instructed me that I should not walk
in the way of this people, saying,



(m) To encourage me that I should not shrink for the infidelity of this people, and so neglect my
office.
#BCV:Isaiah 8:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:12>Isaiah 8:12</verse></h3>



Say ye not, A (n) confederacy, to all [them to] whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear
ye (o) their fear, nor be afraid.



(n) Consent not you who are godly to the league and friendship that this people seek with strangers
and idolaters.



(o) Meaning, that they should not fear the thing that they who have no hope in God feared.
#BCV:Isaiah 8:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:13>Isaiah 8:13</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 8:13
<h3><verse=isa 8:13>isa 8:13</verse></h3>




(p) In putting your trust only in him, in calling on him in adversity, patiently looking for his help, and
fearing to do anything contrary to his will.
#BCV:Isaiah 8:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:14>Isaiah 8:14</verse></h3>



And he shall be for a (q) sanctuary; but for a stone of stumbling and for a rock of offence to both
the houses of Israel, for a trap and for a snare to the inhabitants of Jerusalem.



(q) He will defend you who are his elect, and reject all the rest, meaning Christ against whom the
Jews would stumble and fall, (<bcv=Luk 2:23>Luk 2:23</bcv>;<bcv=Rom 9:33> Rom 9:33</bcv>; <bcv=1Pe 2:7>Pe1 2:7</bcv>,<bcv=1Pe 2:8>8</bcv>).

#BCV:Isaiah 8:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:16>Isaiah 8:16</verse></h3>




(r) Bind up the testimony, seal the law among my disciples.



(r) Though all forsake me, yet you who are mine keep my word sure sealed in your hearts.
#BCV:Isaiah 8:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:18>Isaiah 8:18</verse></h3>



Behold, I and the (s) children whom the LORD hath given me [are] for signs and for wonders in
Israel (t) from the LORD of hosts, who dwelleth in mount Zion.



(s) Meaning, them who were willing to hear and obey the word of God whom the world hated, as
though they were monsters and not worthy to live.



(t) This was a consolation in their troubles, knowing that nothing could come to them, but by the
will of the Lord.
#BCV:Isaiah 8:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:19>Isaiah 8:19</verse></h3>



And when they shall say to you, Seek to them that are mediums, and to wizards that peep, and that
mutter: (u) should not a people seek to their God? for the (x) living to the dead?



(u) Answer the wicked thus, should not God's people seek comfort only from him?



(x) That is, will they refuse to be taught by the prophet, who is the mouth of God, and seek help
from the dead, which is the illusion of Satan?
#BCV:Isaiah 8:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:20>Isaiah 8:20</verse></h3>

<page=1655>To the (y) law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, [it is] because [there is]
no (z) light in them.



(y) Seek remedy in the word of God, where his will is declared.



(z) They have no knowledge but are blind leaders of the blind.
#BCV:Isaiah 8:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:21>Isaiah 8:21</verse></h3>



And they shall pass through it, distressed and hungry: and it shall come to (a) pass, that when they
shall be hungry, they shall fret themselves, (b) and curse their king and their God, and look upward.



(a) That is, in Judah, where they would have had rest, if they had not thus grievously offended God.



(b) In whom before they put their trust.
#BCV:Isaiah 8:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 8:22>Isaiah 8:22</verse></h3>



And they shall look to the earth; and behold trouble and (c) darkness, dimness of anguish; and [they
shall be] driven to darkness.



(c) They will think that heaven and earth and all creatures are bent against them to trouble them.

<h2>Isaiah 9</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 9:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 9:1>Isaiah 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=1656>Nevertheless (a) the dimness [shall] not [be] such as [was] in her distress, (b) when at the first he
lightly afflicted the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, and afterward did more grievously
afflict [her by] the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, in Galilee of (c) the nations.



(a) He comforts the Church again after these great threatenings promising to restore them to great
glory in Messiah.



(b) With which Israel was punished, first by Tiglath-pilesar, which was a light scourge in respect to
that which they suffered afterward by Shalmaneser, who carried the Israelites away captive.



(c) While the Jews and Gentiles dwelt together by reason of those twenty cites, which Solomon gave
to Hiram.
#BCV:Isaiah 9:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 9:2>Isaiah 9:2</verse></h3>



The people that (d) walked in darkness have seen a great (e) light: they that dwell in the land of the
shadow of death, upon them hath the (f) light shined.



(d) Which were in captivity in Babylon and the prophets speaks of that thing which would come to
pass 60 years later as though it were now done.



(e) Meaning, the comfort of their deliverance.



(f) This captivity and deliverance were figures of our captivity by sin and of our deliverance by
Christ through the preaching of the Gospel, (<bcv=Mat 4:15-16>Mat 4:15-16</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 9:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 9:3>Isaiah 9:3</verse></h3>



Thou hast (g) multiplied the nation, [and] increased the joy: they rejoice before thee according to the
joy in harvest, [and] as [men] rejoice when they divide the spoil.



(g) Their number was greater when they went into captivity then when they returned but their joy
was greater at their return, (<bcv=Hag 2:9>Hag 2:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 9:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 9:4>Isaiah 9:4</verse></h3>



For thou hast broken the (h) yoke of his burden, and the staff of his shoulder, the rod of his
oppressor, as in the day of Midian.

(h) You gave them perfect joy by delivering them, and by destroying the tyrants, that had kept them
in cruel bondage, as you delivered them by Gideon from the Midianites, <bcv=Jdg 7:21>(Jdg 7:21).</bcv>

#BCV:Isaiah 9:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 9:5>Isaiah 9:5</verse></h3>

<page=1657>For every battle of the warrior [is] with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but [this] shall
be (i) with burning [and] fuel of fire.



(i) He speaks of the deliverance of his Church, which he has delivered miraculously from his
enemies, but especially by the coming of Christ of whom he prophecies in the next verse.
#BCV:Isaiah 9:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 9:6>Isaiah 9:6</verse></h3>



For to us a child is born, to us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and
his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting (k) Father, The
Prince of Peace.



(k) The author of eternity, and by whom the Church and every member of it will be preserved
forever, and have immortal life.
#BCV:Isaiah 9:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 9:7>Isaiah 9:7</verse></h3>



Of the increase of [his] government and peace [there shall be] no end, upon the throne of David,
and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from
henceforth even for ever. (l) The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.



(l) His singular love and care for his elect.
#BCV:Isaiah 9:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 9:8>Isaiah 9:8</verse></h3>



The Lord sent a word into Jacob, and it hath lighted upon (m) Israel.



(m) This is another prophecy against them of Samaria who were mockers and contemners of God's
promises and menaces.
#BCV:Isaiah 9:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 9:10>Isaiah 9:10</verse></h3>



The (n) bricks have fallen down, but we will build with hewn stones: the sycamores are cut down,
but we will change [them into] cedars.



(n) We were but weak, when the enemy overcame us, but we will make ourselves so strong, that we
will neither care for our enemies, nor fear God's threatenings.
#BCV:Isaiah 9:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 9:11>Isaiah 9:11</verse></h3>

<page=1658>Therefore the LORD shall set up the adversaries of (o) Rezin against him, and join his enemies
together;



(o) Rezin king of Syria, who was in league with Israel, was slain by the Assyrians, after whose death,
Aram that is, the Syrians were against Israel, who on the other side were assailed by the Philistines.
#BCV:Isaiah 9:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 9:18>Isaiah 9:18</verse></h3>



For wickedness (p) burneth as the fire: it shall devour the briers and thorns, and shall kindle in the
thickets of the forest, and they shall mount up [like] the rising of smoke.



(b) Wickedness as a bellows kindles the fire of God's wrath which consumes all his obstinate
enemies.
#BCV:Isaiah 9:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 9:19>Isaiah 9:19</verse></h3>



Through the wrath of the LORD of hosts is the land darkened, and the people shall be as the fuel
of the fire: no man shall (q) spare his brother.



(q) Though there was no foreign enemy, yet they will destroy one another.
#BCV:Isaiah 9:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 9:20>Isaiah 9:20</verse></h3>



And he shall snatch on the right hand, and be hungry; and he shall eat on the left hand, and they
shall not be satisfied: they shall eat every man the (r) flesh of his own arm:



(r) Their greediness will be insatiable, so that one brother will eat up another, as though he should
eat his own flesh.

<h2>Isaiah 10</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 10:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:1>Isaiah 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=1659>Woe to them that decree unrighteous decrees, and that (a) write grievousness [which] they have
prescribed;



(a) Who write and pronounce a wicked sentence to oppress the people: meaning, that the wicked
magistrate, who were the chief cause of mischief, would be first punished.
#BCV:Isaiah 10:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:3>Isaiah 10:3</verse></h3>



And what will ye do in the day of visitation, and in the desolation [which] shall come from (b) far?
to whom will ye flee for help? and where will ye leave your (c) glory?



(b) That is, from Assyria.



(c) Your riches and authority, that they may be safe and that you may receive them again.
#BCV:Isaiah 10:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:4>Isaiah 10:4</verse></h3>




(d) Without me they shall bow down under the prisoners, and they shall fall under the slain. For all
this his anger is not turned away, but his hand [is] stretched out still.



(d) Because they have forsaken me, some will go into captivity and the rest will be slain.
#BCV:Isaiah 10:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:5>Isaiah 10:5</verse></h3>



O (e) Assyrian, the rod of my anger, and the staff in their hand is my indignation.



(e) God calls for the Assyrians to be the executioners of his vengeance.
#BCV:Isaiah 10:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:6>Isaiah 10:6</verse></h3>



I will send (f) him against an hypocritical nation, and against the people of my wrath will I
command him, to take the spoil, and to take the prey, and to tread them down like the mire of the
streets.



(f) That is, the Assyrians against the Jews who are hypocrites. In the sixth and seventh verse is
declared the difference of the work of God and of the wicked in one very thing and act: for God's
intention is to chastise them for their amendment, and the Assyrians purpose is to destroy them to
enrich themselves. Thus in respect to God's justice, it is God's work, but in respect to their own
malice, it is the work of the devil.
#BCV:Isaiah 10:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:9>Isaiah 10:9</verse></h3>

<page=1660>[Is] not Calno as (g) Carchemish? [is] not Hamath as Arpad? [is] not Samaria as Damascus?



(g) Seeing that I have overcome one city as well as another, so that none could resist, shall Jerusalem
be able to escape my hands?
#BCV:Isaiah 10:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:12>Isaiah 10:12</verse></h3>



Wherefore it shall come to pass, [that] when the Lord hath performed (h) his whole work upon
mount Zion and on Jerusalem, I will punish the fruit of the stout heart (i) of the king of Assyria,
and the glory of his high looks.



(h) When he has sufficiently chastised his people (for he begins at his own house) then will he burn
the rods.



(i) Meaning of Sennacherib.
#BCV:Isaiah 10:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:15>Isaiah 10:15</verse></h3>



Shall the (k) axe boast itself against him that heweth with it? [or] shall the saw magnify itself against
him that moveth it? as if the rod should shake [itself] against them that lift it, [or] as if the staff
should lift [itself, as if it were] no wood.



(k) Here we see that no creature is able to do anything, but as God appoints him, and that they are
all his instruments to do his work though the intentions are diverse, as in (<bcv=Isa 10:6>Isa 10:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 10:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:17>Isaiah 10:17</verse></h3>



And the light of Israel shall be for a (l) fire, and his Holy One for a flame: and it shall burn and
devour (m) his thorns and his briers in one day;



(l) Meaning that God is a light to comfort his people and a fire to burn his enemies.



(m) That is, the Assyrians.
#BCV:Isaiah 10:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:18>Isaiah 10:18</verse></h3>



And shall consume the glory of his forest, and of his fruitful field, both soul (n) and body: and they
shall be as when a standardbearer (o) fainteth.



(n) That is, body and soul utterly.



(o) When the battle is lost and the standard taken.
#BCV:Isaiah 10:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:20>Isaiah 10:20</verse></h3>

<page=1661>And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] the remnant of Israel, and such as have escaped of the
house of Jacob, shall no more again lean upon him that smote them; but shall (p) lean upon the
LORD, the Holy One of Israel, in truth.



(p) This is the end of God's plagues toward his, to bring them to him, and to forsake all trust in
others.
#BCV:Isaiah 10:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:22>Isaiah 10:22</verse></h3>



For though thy people Israel be as the sand of the sea, [yet] a remnant of them shall return: the full
end (q) decreed shall overflow with righteousness.



(q) This small number which seemed to be consumed and yet according to God's decree is saved,
will be sufficient to fill all the world with righteousness.
#BCV:Isaiah 10:23
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:23>Isaiah 10:23</verse></h3>



For the Lord GOD of hosts shall make a full end, even (r) determined, in the midst of all the land.



(r) God will destroy this land as he has determined and later save a small portion.
#BCV:Isaiah 10:24
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:24>Isaiah 10:24</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD of hosts, O my people that dwellest in Zion, be not afraid of
the Assyrian: he shall smite thee with a rod, and shall lift up his staff against thee, after the manner
of (s) Egypt.



(s) As the Egyptians punished you.
#BCV:Isaiah 10:26
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:26>Isaiah 10:26</verse></h3>



And the LORD of hosts shall raise up a scourge for him according to the slaughter of (t) Midian at
the rock of Oreb: and [as] his rod [was] upon the (u) sea, so shall he lift it up after the manner of
Egypt.



(t) Read (<bcv=Isa 9:4>Isa 9:4</bcv>).



(u) When the Israelites passed through by the lifting up of Moses' rod, and the enemies were
drowned, (<bcv=Exo 14:28>Exo 14:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 10:27
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:27>Isaiah 10:27</verse></h3>

<page=1662>And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] his burden shall be taken away from off thy shoulder,
and his yoke from off thy neck, and the yoke shall be destroyed because of (x) the anointing.



(x) Because of the promise made to that kingdom, by which Christ's kingdom was prefigured.
#BCV:Isaiah 10:28
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:28>Isaiah 10:28</verse></h3>



He is come to (y) Aiath, he is passed to Migron; at Michmash he hath attended to his carriages:



(y) He describes by what way the Assyrians would come against Jerusalem, to confirm the faithful,
when it would come to pass, that as their plague was come, so should they be delivered.
#BCV:Isaiah 10:33
<h3><verse=Isaiah 10:33>Isaiah 10:33</verse></h3>



Behold, the Lord, the LORD of hosts, shall lop the (z) bough with terror: and the high ones of
stature [shall be] hewn down, and the haughty shall be humbled.



(z) Fear and destruction will come on Judah for the princes and the people will all be led away
captive.

<h2>Isaiah 11</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 11:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 11:1>Isaiah 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=1663>And there shall come forth a (a) rod out of the stem of Jesse, and a Branch shall grow out of his
roots:



(a) Because the captivity of Babylon was a figure of the spiritual captivity under sin, he shows that
our true deliverance must come by Christ: for as David came out of Jesse, a man without dignity, so
Christ would come of a poor carpenter's house as out of a dead stock, (<bcv=Isa 53:2>Isa 53:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 11:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 11:4>Isaiah 11:4</verse></h3>



But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth:
and he shall (b) smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he
slay the wicked.



(b) All these properties can agree to no one, but only to Christ: for it is he who touches the hearts
of the faithful and mortifies their concupiscence: and to the wicked he is the favour of death and to
them who will perish, so that all the world will be smitten with his rod, which is his word.
#BCV:Isaiah 11:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 11:6>Isaiah 11:6</verse></h3>



The (c) wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf
and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.



(c) Men because of their wicked affections are named by the names of beasts, in which the same
affections reign: but Christ by his Spirit will reform them, and work in them such mutual charity, that
they will be like lambs, favouring and loving one another and cast off all their cruel affections, (<bcv=Isa 65:25>Isa 65:25</bcv>).

#BCV:Isaiah 11:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 11:9>Isaiah 11:9</verse></h3>



They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge
of the LORD, as (d) the waters cover the sea.



(d) It will be in as great abundance as the waters in the sea.
#BCV:Isaiah 11:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 11:10>Isaiah 11:10</verse></h3>



And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the (e) people; to it
shall the Gentiles seek: and his (f) rest shall be glorious.



(e) He prophecies of the calling of the Gentiles.

<page=1664>(f) That is, the Church which he also calls his rest, (Psa 132:14).
#BCV:Isaiah 11:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 11:11>Isaiah 11:11</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] the Lord shall set his hand (g) again the second time to
recover the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria, and from Egypt, and from
Pathros, and from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath, and from the isles of
the sea.



(g) For God first delivered his people out of Egypt and now promises to deliver them out of their
enemies hands as from the Parthians, Persians, Chaldeans and them of Antioch among whom they
were dispersed and this is chiefly meant of Christ, who calls his people being dispersed through all
the world.
#BCV:Isaiah 11:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 11:13>Isaiah 11:13</verse></h3>



The envy also of Ephraim shall depart, and the adversaries of (h) Judah shall be cut off: Ephraim
shall not envy Judah, and Judah shall not distress Ephraim.



(h) Here he describes the consent that will be in his Church and their victory against their enemies.
#BCV:Isaiah 11:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 11:15>Isaiah 11:15</verse></h3>



And the LORD shall utterly destroy the (i) tongue of the Egyptian sea; and with his mighty wind
shall he shake his hand (k) over the river, and shall smite it in the seven streams, and make [men] go
over dryshod.



(i) Meaning a corner of the sea that enters into the land and has the form of a tongue.



(k) That is, Nile, the great river of Egypt which enters into the sea with seven streams.

<h2>Isaiah 12</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 12:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 12:1>Isaiah 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=1665>And in that day thou (a) shalt say, O LORD, I will praise thee: though thou wast angry with me, thy
anger is turned away, and thou didst comfort me.



(a) He shows how the Church will praise God, when they are delivered from their captivity.
#BCV:Isaiah 12:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 12:2>Isaiah 12:2</verse></h3>



Behold, God [is] my (b) salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the LORD [is] my strength and
[my] song; he also is become my salvation.



(b) Our salvation stands only in God, who gives us an assured confidence, constancy and
opportunity to praise him for the same.
#BCV:Isaiah 12:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 12:3>Isaiah 12:3</verse></h3>



Therefore with joy shall ye (c) draw water out of the wells of salvation.



(c) The graces of God will be so abundant that you may receive them in as great plenty as waters out
of a fountain that is full.
#BCV:Isaiah 12:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 12:6>Isaiah 12:6</verse></h3>



Cry aloud and shout, (d) thou inhabitant of Zion: for great [is] the Holy One of Israel in the midst
of thee.



(d) You who are of the Church.

<h2>Isaiah 13</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 13:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 13:1>Isaiah 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=1666>The (a) burden of Babylon, which Isaiah the son of Amoz saw.



(a) That is, the great calamity which was prophesied to come on Babel, a grievous burden which they
were not able to bear. In these twelve chapters following he speaks of the plagues with which God
would smite the strange nations (whom they knew) to declare that God chastised the Israelites as his
children and these others as his enemies: and also that if God does not spare these who are ignorant,
they must not think strange if he punishes them who have knowledge of his Law, and do not keep it.
#BCV:Isaiah 13:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 13:2>Isaiah 13:2</verse></h3>



Lift ye up a banner upon the high mountain, exalt the voice to them, shake the (b) hand, that they
may go into the gates of the nobles.



(b) That is, the Medes and Persians.
#BCV:Isaiah 13:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 13:3>Isaiah 13:3</verse></h3>



I have commanded my (c) sanctified ones, I have also called my mighty ones for my anger, [even]
them that rejoice in my (d) highness.



(c) That is, prepared and appointed to execute my judgments.



(d) Who willingly go about to the work to which I appoint them, but how the wicked do this, read



(<bcv=Isa 10:6>Isa 10:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 13:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 13:5>Isaiah 13:5</verse></h3>



They come from a far country, from the end of heaven, [even] the LORD, and the (e) weapons of
his indignation, to destroy the whole land.



(e) The army of the Medes and the Persians against Babylon.
#BCV:Isaiah 13:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 13:6>Isaiah 13:6</verse></h3>



Wail (f) ye; for the day of the LORD [is] at hand; it shall come as a destruction from the Almighty.



(f) You Babylonians.
#BCV:Isaiah 13:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 13:8>Isaiah 13:8</verse></h3>

<page=1667>And they shall be afraid: pangs and sorrows shall take hold of them; they shall be in pain as a
woman that travaileth: they shall be amazed one at another; their faces [shall be as] (g) flames.



(g) The Babylonians anger and grief will be so much that their faces will burn as fire.
#BCV:Isaiah 13:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 13:10>Isaiah 13:10</verse></h3>



For the (h) stars of heaven and its constellations shall not give their light: the sun shall be darkened
in his going forth, and the moon shall not cause her light to shine.



(h) They who are overcome will think that all the powers of heaven and earth are against them, <bcv=Eze 32:7>(Eze 32:7;</bcv><bcv=Joel 3:15> Joe 3:15</bcv>;<bcv=Mat 24:29> Mat 24:29</bcv>).

#BCV:Isaiah 13:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 13:11>Isaiah 13:11</verse></h3>



And I will punish the (i) world for [their] evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; and I will cause the
arrogance of the (k) proud to cease, and will lay low the haughtiness of the terrible.



(i) He compares Babylon to the whole world because they so esteemed themselves by reason of
their great empire.



(k) He notes the principal vice, to which they are most given as are all that abound in wealth.
#BCV:Isaiah 13:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 13:12>Isaiah 13:12</verse></h3>



I will make a (l) man more rare than fine gold; even a man than the golden wedge of Ophir.



(l) He notes the great slaughter that will be, seeing the enemy will neither for gold or silver spare a
man's life as in (<bcv=Isa 13:17>Isa 13:17</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 13:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 13:14>Isaiah 13:14</verse></h3>



And (m) it shall be as the chased roe, and as a sheep that no man taketh up: they shall every man
turn to his own people, and flee every one to his own land.



(m) Meaning the power of Babylon with their hired soldiers.
#BCV:Isaiah 13:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 13:16>Isaiah 13:16</verse></h3>



Their (n) children also shall be dashed to pieces before their eyes; their houses shall be plundered,
and their wives ravished.



(n) This was not accomplished when Cyrus took Babylon, but after the death of Alexander the great.
#BCV:Isaiah 13:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 13:20>Isaiah 13:20</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 13:20
<h3><verse=isa 13:20>isa 13:20</verse></h3>



the (o) Arabian pitch tent there; neither shall the shepherds make their fold there.



(o) Who used to go from country to country to find pasture for their beasts, but they will find none.
#BCV:Isaiah 13:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 13:21>Isaiah 13:21</verse></h3>



But (p) wild beasts of the desert shall lie there; and their houses shall be full of doleful creatures;
and owls shall dwell there, and satyrs shall dance there.



(p) Who were either wild beasts or fools, or wicked spirits, by which Satan deluded man, as by the
fairies, goblins, and such like fantasies.

<h2>Isaiah 14</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 14:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:1>Isaiah 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=1669>For (a) the LORD will have mercy on Jacob, and will yet choose Israel, and set them in their own
land: and the strangers (b) shall be joined with them, and they shall unite with the house of Jacob.



(a) He shows why God will haste to destroy his enemies, that is, because he will deliver his Church.



(b) Meaning that the Gentiles will be joined with the Church and worship God.
#BCV:Isaiah 14:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:2>Isaiah 14:2</verse></h3>



And the people shall take them, and bring them to their place: and the house of Israel shall possess
them in the land of the LORD for (c) servants and handmaids: and they shall take them captives,
whose captives they were; and they shall rule over their oppressors.



(c) Signifying that the Jews would be superior to the Gentiles and that they would be brought under
the service of Christ by the preaching of the Apostles, by which all are brought to the subjection of
Christ, (<bcv=2co 10:5>Co2 10:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 14:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:6>Isaiah 14:6</verse></h3>



He who smote the people in wrath with a continual stroke, he that ruled the nations in anger, is
persecuted, [and] (d) none hindereth.



(d) That is, he permitted all violence and injuries to be done.
#BCV:Isaiah 14:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:7>Isaiah 14:7</verse></h3>



The whole earth is at (e) rest, [and] is quiet: they break forth into singing.



(e) Meaning that where tyrants reign, there can be no rest or quietness and also how detestable a
thing tyranny is, seeing the insensible creatures have opportunity to rejoice at their destruction.
#BCV:Isaiah 14:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:9>Isaiah 14:9</verse></h3>



Hell from beneath is moved for thee to (f) meet [thee] at thy coming: it stirreth up the dead for thee,
[even] all the chief ones of the earth; it hath raised up from their thrones all the kings of the nations.



(f) As though they feared, lest you should trouble the dead, as you did the living and here he derides
the proud tyranny of the wicked, who know not that all creatures wish their destruction, that they
may rejoice.
#BCV:Isaiah 14:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:11>Isaiah 14:11</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 14:11
<h3><verse=isa 14:11>isa 14:11</verse></h3>



thee, and the worms cover thee.



(g) Instead of your costly carpets and coverings.
#BCV:Isaiah 14:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:12>Isaiah 14:12</verse></h3>



How art thou fallen from heaven, O (h) Lucifer, son of the morning! [how] art thou cut down to the
ground, which didst weaken the nations!



(h) You who thought yourself most glorious and as it were placed in the heaven for the morning star
that goes before the sun, is called Lucifer, to whom Nebuchadnezzar is compared.
#BCV:Isaiah 14:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:13>Isaiah 14:13</verse></h3>



For thou hast said in thy heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of
God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the (i) north:



(i) Meaning, Jerusalem of which the temple was of the north side, (<bcv=Psa 48:2>Psa 48:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 14:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:16>Isaiah 14:16</verse></h3>



They that see thee shall narrowly (k) look upon thee, [and] consider thee, [saying, Is] this the man
that made the earth to tremble, that shook kingdoms;



(k) In marvelling at you.
#BCV:Isaiah 14:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:17>Isaiah 14:17</verse></h3>



[That] made the world as a wilderness, and destroyed its cities; [that] opened not (l) the house of his
prisoners?



(l) To set them free, noting his cruelty.
#BCV:Isaiah 14:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:19>Isaiah 14:19</verse></h3>



But thou art (m) cast out of thy grave like an abominable branch, [and as] the raiment of those that
are slain, thrust through with a sword, that go down to the stones of the pit; as a carcase trodden
under feet.



(m) You were not buried in the sepulchre of your fathers, your tyranny was so abhorred.
#BCV:Isaiah 14:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:21>Isaiah 14:21</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 14:21
<h3><verse=isa 14:21>isa 14:21</verse></h3>



possess the land, nor fill the face of the world with cities.



(n) He called to the Medes and Persians, and all those who would execute God's vengeance.
#BCV:Isaiah 14:25
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:25>Isaiah 14:25</verse></h3>




(o) That I will break the Assyrian in my land, and upon my mountains tread him under foot: then
shall his yoke depart from off (p) them, and his burden depart from off their shoulders.



(o) As I have begun to destroy the Assyrians in Sennacherib: so will I continue and destroy them
wholly, when I will deliver you from Babylon.



(p) From the Jews.
#BCV:Isaiah 14:28
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:28>Isaiah 14:28</verse></h3>



In the year that king Ahaz died was this (q) burden.



(q) See<bcv=Isa 13:1> Isa 13:1</bcv>
#BCV:Isaiah 14:29
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:29>Isaiah 14:29</verse></h3>



Rejoice not thou, all (r) Palestina, because the rod of him that smote thee is broken: for out of the
serpent's root shall come forth an adder, and his fruit [shall be] a fiery flying serpent.



(r) He wills the Philistines not to rejoice because the Jews are diminished in their power, for their
strength will be greater than it ever was.
#BCV:Isaiah 14:30
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:30>Isaiah 14:30</verse></h3>



And the (s) firstborn of the poor shall feed, and the needy shall lie down in safety: and I will kill thy
root with famine, and (t) he shall slay thy remnant.



(s) The Israelites who were brought to most extreme misery.



(t) That is, my people.
#BCV:Isaiah 14:31
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:31>Isaiah 14:31</verse></h3>



Howl, O gate; cry, O city; thou, all Palestina, [art] dissolved: for there shall come from the (u) north
a smoke, and none [shall be] (x) alone in his appointed times.



(u) That is, from the Jews or Assyrians: for they were brought to extreme misery.
#BCV:Isaiah 14:32
<h3><verse=Isaiah 14:32>Isaiah 14:32</verse></h3>

<page=1672>What shall [one] then answer the (y) messengers of the nation? That the LORD hath founded (z)
Zion, and the poor of his people shall trust in it.



(y) Who will come to enquire of the state of the Church.



(z) They will answer that the Lord defends his Church and those that join themselves to it.

<h2>Isaiah 15</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 15:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 15:1>Isaiah 15:1</verse></h3>

<page=1673>The (a) burden of Moab. Because in the night (b) Ar of Moab is laid waste, [and] brought to silence;
because in the night Kir of Moab is laid waste, [and] brought to silence;



(a) See<bcv=Isa 13:1> Isa 13:1</bcv>



(b) The chief city by which the whole country was meant.
#BCV:Isaiah 15:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 15:2>Isaiah 15:2</verse></h3>




(c) He is gone up to Bajith, and to Dibon, the high places, to weep: Moab shall wail over (d) Nebo,
and over Medeba: on all (e) their heads [shall be] baldness, [and] every beard shorn.



(c) The Moabites will flee to their idols for comfort but it will be too late.



(d) Which were cites of Moab.



(e) For as in the west parts the people used to let their hair grow long when they mourned, so in the
East part they cut it off.
#BCV:Isaiah 15:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 15:5>Isaiah 15:5</verse></h3>



My (f) heart shall cry out for Moab; his fugitives [shall flee] to Zoar, (g) an heifer of three years old:
for they shall go up the ascent of Luhith with weeping for in the way of Horonaim they (h) shall
raise a cry of destruction.



(f) The prophet speaks this in the person of the Moabites: or as one who felt the great judgment of
God that God would come on them.



(g) Meaning that it was a city that always lived in pleasure and never felt sorrow.



(h) He describes the miserable dissipation and flight of the Moabites.
#BCV:Isaiah 15:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 15:7>Isaiah 15:7</verse></h3>



Therefore the abundance they have gained, and that which they have laid up, shall they carry away to
the (i) brook of the willows.



(i) To hide themselves and their goods there.
#BCV:Isaiah 15:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 15:9>Isaiah 15:9</verse></h3>

<page=1674>For the waters of Dimon shall be full (k) of blood: for I will bring more upon Dimon, lions (l) upon
him that escapeth of Moab, and upon the remnant of the land.



(k) Of them who are slain.



(l) So that by no means would they escape the hand of God: thus will God punish the enemies of
his Church.

<h2>Isaiah 16</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 16:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 16:1>Isaiah 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=1675>Send (a) ye the lamb to the ruler of the land from Sela to the wilderness, to the mount of the
daughter of Zion.



(a) That is, offer a sacrifice, by which he derides their long delay, who would not repent when the
Lord called them, showing them that it is now too late seeing the vengeance of God is on them.
#BCV:Isaiah 16:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 16:2>Isaiah 16:2</verse></h3>



For it shall be, [that], as a (b) wandering bird cast out of the nest, [so] the daughters of Moab shall
be at the fords of Arnon.



(b) There is no remedy but that you must flee.
#BCV:Isaiah 16:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 16:3>Isaiah 16:3</verse></h3>



Take counsel, execute judgment; (c) make thy shadow as the night in the midst of the noonday; hide
the outcasts; discover not him that wandereth.



(c) He shows what Moab would have done, when Israel their neighbour was in affliction, to whom
because they would give no shadow or comfort, they are now left comfortless.
#BCV:Isaiah 16:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 16:4>Isaiah 16:4</verse></h3>



Let my outcasts dwell with thee, Moab; be thou a covert to them from the face of the spoiler: for
the extortioner (d) is at an end, the spoiler ceaseth, the oppressors are consumed out of the land.



(d) The Assyrians will oppress the Israelites but for a while.
#BCV:Isaiah 16:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 16:5>Isaiah 16:5</verse></h3>



And in mercy shall the throne be established: (e) and he shall sit upon it in truth in the tabernacle of
David, judging, and seeking judgment, and swiftly executing righteousness.



(e) Meaning, Christ.
#BCV:Isaiah 16:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 16:6>Isaiah 16:6</verse></h3>

<page=1676>We have heard of the pride of Moab; [he is] very proud: [even] of his haughtiness, and his pride,
and his wrath: [but] his (f) lies [shall] not [be] so.



(f) Their vain confidence and proud bragging will deceive them, (<bcv=Jer 48:2>Jer 48:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 16:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 16:7>Isaiah 16:7</verse></h3>



Therefore shall Moab wail for Moab, every one shall wail: for the foundations of Kirhareseth shall
ye mourn; surely [they are] (g) stricken.



(g) For all your mourning, yet the city will be destroyed even to the foundation.
#BCV:Isaiah 16:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 16:8>Isaiah 16:8</verse></h3>



For the fields of Heshbon languish, [and] the vine of Sibmah: (h) the lords of the nations have
broken down her principal plants, they have come [even] to (i) Jazer, they wandered [through] the
wilderness: her branches are extended, they have gone over the sea.



(h) That is, the Assyrians and other enemies.



(i) Meaning that the country of Moab was now destroyed, and all the precious things of it were
carried into the borders yea into other countries and over the sea.
#BCV:Isaiah 16:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 16:9>Isaiah 16:9</verse></h3>



Therefore I will (k) bewail with the weeping of Jazer the vine of Sibmah: I will water thee with my
tears, O Heshbon, and Elealeh: for the shouting for thy summer fruits and for thy (l) harvest is
fallen.



(k) He shows that their plague was so great that it would have moved any man to lament with them,
as in (<bcv=Psa 141:5>Psa 141:5</bcv>).



(l) The enemies are come upon you, and shout for joy when they carry your conveniences from you
as in (<bcv=Jer 48:33>Jer 48:33</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 16:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 16:11>Isaiah 16:11</verse></h3>



Wherefore my (m) heart shall sound like an harp for Moab, and my inward parts for Kirharesh.



(m) For sorrow and compassion.
#BCV:Isaiah 16:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 16:12>Isaiah 16:12</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, when it is seen that Moab is weary on the high place, that he shall come to
his (n) sanctuary to pray; but he shall not prevail.

<page=1677>(n) They will use all means to seek help for their idols, and all in vain: for Chemosh their great god
will not be able to help them.
#BCV:Isaiah 16:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 16:14>Isaiah 16:14</verse></h3>



But now the LORD hath spoken, saying, (o) Within three years, as the years of an (p) hireling, and
the glory of Moab shall be despised, with all that great multitude; and the remnant [shall be] very
small [and] feeble.



(o) He appointed a certain time to punish the enemies in.



(p) Who will observe justly the time for which he is hired and serve no longer but will ever long for
it.

<h2>Isaiah 17</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 17:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 17:1>Isaiah 17:1</verse></h3>

<page=1678>The (a) burden of (b) Damascus. Behold, Damascus is taken away from [being] a city, and it shall be
a ruinous heap.



(a) See<bcv=Isa 13:1> Isa 13:1</bcv>



(b) The chief city of Syria.
#BCV:Isaiah 17:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 17:2>Isaiah 17:2</verse></h3>



The cities of (c) Aroer [are] forsaken: they shall be for flocks, which shall lie down, and none shall
make [them] afraid.



(c) It was a country of Syria by the river Arnon.
#BCV:Isaiah 17:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 17:3>Isaiah 17:3</verse></h3>



The fortress also shall cease from (d) Ephraim, and the kingdom from Damascus, and the remnant
of Syria: they shall be as the (e) glory of the children of Israel, saith the LORD of hosts.



(d) It seems that the prophet would comfort the Church in declaring the destruction of these two
kings of Syria and Israel, when as they had conspired the overthrow of Judah.



(e) The ten tribes gloried in their multitude and alliance with other nations: therefore he says that
they will be brought down and the Syrians also.
#BCV:Isaiah 17:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 17:4>Isaiah 17:4</verse></h3>



And in that day it shall come to pass, [that] the glory of (f) Jacob shall be diminished, and the fatness
of his flesh shall become lean.



(f) Meaning, of the ten tribes who boasted themselves of their nobility, prosperity, strength and
multitude.
#BCV:Isaiah 17:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 17:5>Isaiah 17:5</verse></h3>



And it shall be as when the reaper gathereth (g) the grain, and reapeth the heads with his arm; and it
shall be as he that gathereth heads in the valley of (h) Rephaim.



(g) As the abundance of corn does not fear the harvest men that would cut it down: no more will
the multitude of Israel make the enemies shrink, whom God will appoint to destroy them.

<page=1679>(h) A valley which was plentiful and fertile.
#BCV:Isaiah 17:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 17:6>Isaiah 17:6</verse></h3>



Yet gleaning grapes shall (i) be left in it, as the shaking of an olive tree, two [or] three berries in the
top of the uppermost bough, four [or] five in the outmost fruitful branches of it, saith the LORD
God of Israel.



(i) Because God would have his covenant stable, he promises to reserve some of this people, and to
bring them to repentance.
#BCV:Isaiah 17:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 17:7>Isaiah 17:7</verse></h3>



At that day shall a man look to his (k) Maker, and his eyes shall have respect to the Holy One of
Israel.



(k) He shows that God's corrections always bring fruit, and cause his to turn from their sins and to
humble themselves to him.
#BCV:Isaiah 17:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 17:9>Isaiah 17:9</verse></h3>



In that day shall his strong cities be as a forsaken bough, and an uppermost branch, which (l) they
left because of the children of Israel: and there shall be desolation.



(l) As the Canaanites left their cities when God placed the Israelites there, so the cities of Israel will
not be able to defend their inhabitants any more than bushes, when God will send the enemy to
plague them.
#BCV:Isaiah 17:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 17:10>Isaiah 17:10</verse></h3>



Because thou hast forgotten the God of thy salvation, and hast not been mindful of the rock of thy
strength, therefore shalt thou plant pleasant plants, and shalt set it with foreign (m) slips:



(m) Which are excellent and brought out of other countries.
#BCV:Isaiah 17:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 17:11>Isaiah 17:11</verse></h3>



In the day shalt thou make thy plant to grow, and in the morning shalt thou make thy seed to
flourish: [but] the harvest [shall be] a heap in the day (n) of grief and of desperate sorrow.



(n) As the Lord threatens the wicked in his law, (<bcv=Lev 26:16>Lev 26:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 17:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 17:12>Isaiah 17:12</verse></h3>


<page=1680>(o) Woe to the multitude of many people, [who] make a noise like the noise of the seas; and to the
rushing of nations, [that] make a rushing like the rushing of mighty waters!



(o) The prophet laments, considering the horrible plague that was prepared against Israel by the
Assyrians, who were infinite in number, and gathered from many nations.
#BCV:Isaiah 17:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 17:13>Isaiah 17:13</verse></h3>



The nations shall rush like the rushing of many waters: but [God] shall (p) rebuke them, and they
shall flee far off, and shall be chased as the chaff of the mountains before the wind, and like a
rolling thing before the whirlwind.



(p) He adds this for the consolation of the faithful who were in Israel.
#BCV:Isaiah 17:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 17:14>Isaiah 17:14</verse></h3>



And behold at the time of evening (q) trouble; [and] before the morning he [is] not. This [is] the
portion of them that plunder us, and the lot of them that rob us.



(q) He compares the Assyrians to a tempest which rises overnight and in the morning is gone.

<h2>Isaiah 18</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 18:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 18:1>Isaiah 18:1</verse></h3>

<page=1681>Woe to the (a) land shadowing with wings, which [is] beyond the rivers of Cush:



(a) He means that part of Ethiopia which lies toward the sea, which was so full of ships that the
sails (which he compares to wings) seemed to shadow the sea.
#BCV:Isaiah 18:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 18:2>Isaiah 18:2</verse></h3>



That sendeth ambassadors by the sea, even in vessels of (b) bulrushes upon the waters, [saying], (c)
Go, ye swift messengers, to a nation scattered and stripped, to a (d) people terrible from their
beginning to this time; a nation measured by line and trodden down, whose land the (e) rivers have
laid waste!



(b) Which is those countries were great, so much so that they made ships from them for swiftness.



(c) This may be taken that they sent others to comfort the Jews and to promise them help against
their enemies, and so the Lord threatened to take away their strength, that the Jews should not trust
in it: or that they solicited the Egyptians and promised them aid to go against Judah.



(d) That is, the Jews who because of God's plague made all other nations afraid of the same, as God
threatened in (<bcv=Deu 28:37>Deu 28:37</bcv>).



(e) Meaning the Assyrians, (<bcv=Isa 8:7>Isa 8:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 18:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 18:3>Isaiah 18:3</verse></h3>



All ye inhabitants of the world, and dwellers on the earth, see ye, when (f) he lifteth up an ensign on
the mountains; and when he bloweth a trumpet, hear ye.



(f) When the Lord prepared to fight against the Ethiopians.
#BCV:Isaiah 18:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 18:4>Isaiah 18:4</verse></h3>



For so the LORD said to me, I will take my (g) rest, and I will consider in my dwelling place like a (h)
clear heat upon herbs, [and] like a cloud of dew in the heat of harvest.



(g) I will stay a while from punishing the wicked.



(h) Which two seasons are profitable for the ripening of fruit, by which he means that he will seem
to favour them and give them abundance for a time, but he will suddenly cut them off.
#BCV:Isaiah 18:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 18:6>Isaiah 18:6</verse></h3>

<page=1682>They shall be left together to the fowls of the mountains, and to the (i) beasts of the earth: and the
fowls shall summer upon them, and all the beasts of the earth shall winter upon them.



(i) Not only men will contemn them, but the brute beast.
#BCV:Isaiah 18:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 18:7>Isaiah 18:7</verse></h3>



In that time shall the (k) present be brought to the LORD of hosts of a people scattered and
stripped, and from a people terrible from their beginning to this time; a nation measured by line and
trodden under foot, whose land the rivers have spoiled, to the place of the name of the LORD of
hosts, the mount Zion.



(k) Meaning that God will pity his Church, and receive that little remnant as an offering to himself.

<h2>Isaiah 19</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 19:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:1>Isaiah 19:1</verse></h3>

<page=1683>The (a) burden of Egypt. Behold, the LORD (b) rideth upon a swift cloud, and shall come into
Egypt: and the idols of Egypt shall be moved at his presence, and the heart of Egypt shall melt in
the midst of it.



(a) Read (<bcv=Isa 13:7>Isa 13:7</bcv>).



(b) Because the Egyptians trusted in the defence of their country, in the multitude of their idols and
in the valiantness of their men the Lord shows that he will come over all their munitions in a swift
cloud, and that their idols will tremble at his coming and that men's hearts will faint.
#BCV:Isaiah 19:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:2>Isaiah 19:2</verse></h3>



And I will set the Egyptians against the Egyptians: and they shall (c) fight every one against his
brother, and every one against his neighbour; city against city, [and] kingdom against kingdom.



(c) As he caused the Ammonites, Moabites and Idumeans to kill one another, when they came to
destroy the Church of God, (<bcv=2Ch 20:22>Ch2 20:22</bcv>; <bcv=Isa 49:26>Isa 49:26</bcv>).

#BCV:Isaiah 19:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:3>Isaiah 19:3</verse></h3>



And the (d) spirit of Egypt shall fail in the midst of her; and I will destroy her counsel: and they
shall seek to the idols, and to the charmers, and to the mediums, and to the wizards.



(d) Meaning, their policy and wisdom.
#BCV:Isaiah 19:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:5>Isaiah 19:5</verse></h3>



And the waters shall (e) fail from the sea, and the rivers shall be wasted and dried up.



(e) He shows that the sea and their great river Nile by which they thought themselves most sure,
would not be able to defend them but that he would send the Assyrians among them, that would
keep them under as slaves.
#BCV:Isaiah 19:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:6>Isaiah 19:6</verse></h3>



And they shall turn the (f) rivers far away; [and] the brooks of defence shall be emptied and dried up:
the reeds and flags shall wither.



(f) For the Nile ran into the sea by seven streams, as though they were many rivers.
#BCV:Isaiah 19:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:7>Isaiah 19:7</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 19:7
<h3><verse=isa 19:7>isa 19:7</verse></h3>



shall wither, be driven away, and be no [more].



(g) The Hebrew word is mouth, by which they mean the spring out of which the water gushes as out
of a mouth.
#BCV:Isaiah 19:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:8>Isaiah 19:8</verse></h3>



The fishermen also shall (h) mourn, and all they that cast hook into the brooks shall lament, and
they that spread nets upon the waters shall languish.



(h) The Scriptures describe the destruction of a country by the taking away of the conveniences of
it, as by vines, flesh, fish and such other things by which countries are enriched.
#BCV:Isaiah 19:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:11>Isaiah 19:11</verse></h3>



Surely the princes of (i) Zoan [are] fools, the counsel of the wise counsellors of Pharaoh is become
senseless: how say ye to Pharaoh, I (k) [am] the son of the wise, the son of ancient kings?



(i) Called also Tanes, a famous city on the Nile.



(k) He notes the flatterers of Pharaoh: who persuaded the king that he was wise and noble, and that
his house was ancient and so he flatters himself, saying I am wise.
#BCV:Isaiah 19:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:13>Isaiah 19:13</verse></h3>



The princes of Zoan are become fools, the princes of (l) Noph are deceived; they have also seduced
Egypt, [even they that are] the (m) support of its tribes.



(l) Or Memphis, Alexandria, and now called the great Cairo.



(m) The principal upholders of it are the main cause of their destruction.
#BCV:Isaiah 19:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:14>Isaiah 19:14</verse></h3>



The LORD hath mingled a (n) perverse spirit in the midst of it: and they have caused Egypt to err
in every work of it, as a drunken [man] staggereth in his vomit.



(n) For the spirit of wisdom he has made them drunken and giddy with the spirit of error.
#BCV:Isaiah 19:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:15>Isaiah 19:15</verse></h3>



Neither shall there be [any] work for Egypt, which the head or tail, branch or rush, may (o) perform.

<page=1685>(o) Neither the great or the small, the strong or the weak.
#BCV:Isaiah 19:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:17>Isaiah 19:17</verse></h3>



And the land of Judah shall be a terror (p) to Egypt, every one that maketh mention of it shall be
afraid in himself, because of the counsel of the LORD of hosts, which he hath determined against
it.



(p) Considering that through their opportunity the Jews did not make God their defence but put
their trust in them, and were therefore now punished, they will fear least the same light on them.
#BCV:Isaiah 19:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:18>Isaiah 19:18</verse></h3>



In that day shall five cities in the land of Egypt (q) speak the language of Canaan, and (r) swear to
the LORD of hosts; one shall be called, The city of (s) destruction.



(q) Will make one confession of faith with the people of God, by the speech of Canaan, meaning
the language in which God was then served.



(r) Will renounce their superstitions and protest to serve God correctly.



(s) Meaning of six cities, five would serve God, and the sixth would remain in their wickedness: and
so there would be but one lost.
#BCV:Isaiah 19:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:19>Isaiah 19:19</verse></h3>



In that day shall there be an altar to the LORD in the midst of the land of Egypt, and (t) a pillar at
its border to the LORD.



(t) There will be evident signs and tokens, that God's religion is there: which manner of speech is
taken of the patriarchs and ancient time, when God has not as yet appointed the place, and full
manner how he would be worshipped.
#BCV:Isaiah 19:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:20>Isaiah 19:20</verse></h3>



And it shall be for a sign and for a witness to the LORD of hosts in the land of Egypt: for they
shall cry to the LORD because of the oppressors, and he shall send them (u) a saviour, and a great
one, and he shall deliver them.



(u) This declares that this prophecy would be accomplished in the time of Christ.
#BCV:Isaiah 19:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:21>Isaiah 19:21</verse></h3>

<page=1686>And the LORD shall be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians shall know the LORD in that day, and
shall do (x) sacrifice and oblation; yea, they shall vow a vow to the LORD, and perform [it].



(x) By these ceremonies he comprehends the spiritual service under Christ.
#BCV:Isaiah 19:23
<h3><verse=Isaiah 19:23>Isaiah 19:23</verse></h3>



In that day shall there be a highway from (y) Egypt to Assyria, and the Assyrian shall come into
Egypt, and the Egyptian into Assyria, and the Egyptians shall serve with the Assyrians.



(y) By these two nations, which were then chief enemies of the Church, he shows that the Gentiles
and the Jews would be joined together in one faith and religion, and would all be one fold under
Christ their shepherd.

<h2>Isaiah 20</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 20:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 20:1>Isaiah 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=1687>In the year that (a) Tartan came to (b) Ashdod, (when (c) Sargon the king of Assyria sent him,) and
fought against Ashdod, and took it;



(a) Who was captain of Sennacherib, (<bcv=II Ki 18:17>Kg2 18:17</bcv>).



(b) A city of the Philistines.



(c) The Hebrews write that Sennacherib was so called.
#BCV:Isaiah 20:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 20:2>Isaiah 20:2</verse></h3>



At the same time spoke the LORD by Isaiah the son of Amoz, saying, Go and loose the (d)
sackcloth from off thy loins, and put off thy shoe from thy foot. And he did so, walking naked and
barefoot.



(d) Which signifies that the prophet lamented the misery that he saw prepared before the three years
that he went naked and barefooted.
#BCV:Isaiah 20:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 20:5>Isaiah 20:5</verse></h3>



And they shall be afraid and ashamed of (e) Cush their expectation, and of Egypt their (f) glory.



(e) In whose aid they trusted.



(f) Of whom they boasted and gloried.
#BCV:Isaiah 20:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 20:6>Isaiah 20:6</verse></h3>



And the inhabitant of this (g) isle shall say in that day, Behold, such [is] our expectation, where we
fled for help to be delivered from the king of Assyria: and how shall we escape?



(g) Meaning Judea which was encompassed by their enemies as an isle with waters.

<h2>Isaiah 21</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 21:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:1>Isaiah 21:1</verse></h3>

<page=1688>The burden of the (a) desert of the sea. As whirlwinds in the south pass through; [so] it cometh
from the desert, (b) from a terrible land.



(a) On the seaside between Judea and Caldea was a wilderness, by which he means Caldea.



(b) That is, the ruin of Babylon by the Medes and Persians.
#BCV:Isaiah 21:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:2>Isaiah 21:2</verse></h3>



A grievous vision is declared to me; the (c) treacherous dealer dealeth treacherously, and the spoiler
spoileth. Go up, O (d) Elam: besiege, O Media; all her sighing have I made (e) to cease.



(c) The Assyrians and Chaldeans who had destroyed other nations will be overcome by the Medes
and Persians: and this he prophesied a hundred years before it came to pass.



(d) By Elam he means the Persians.



(e) Because they will find no comfort, they will mourn no more, or I have caused them to cease
mourning, whom Babylon had afflicted.
#BCV:Isaiah 21:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:3>Isaiah 21:3</verse></h3>



Therefore are my (f) loins filled with pain: pangs have taken hold upon me, as the pangs of a woman
that travaileth: I was bowed down at the hearing [of it]; I was dismayed at the seeing [of it].



(f) This the prophet speaks in the person of the Babylonians.
#BCV:Isaiah 21:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:4>Isaiah 21:4</verse></h3>



My heart panted, fearfulness terrified me: the night (g) of my pleasure hath he turned into fear to
me.




(g) He prophecies the death of Belshazzar as in (<bcv=Dan 5:30>Dan 5:30</bcv>) who in the midst of his pleasures was
destroyed.
#BCV:Isaiah 21:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:5>Isaiah 21:5</verse></h3>



Prepare the table, watch in the watchtower, eat, drink: (h) arise, ye princes, [and] anoint the shield.



(h) While they are eating and drinking, they will be commanded to run to their weapons.
#BCV:Isaiah 21:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:6>Isaiah 21:6</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 21:6
<h3><verse=isa 21:6>isa 21:6</verse></h3>




(i) That is, in a vision by the spirit of prophecy.
#BCV:Isaiah 21:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:7>Isaiah 21:7</verse></h3>



And he saw a chariot [with] a couple of horsemen, a chariot of donkeys, [and] (k) a chariot of
camels; and he hearkened diligently with much heed:



(k) Meaning, chariots of men of war, and others that carried the baggage.
#BCV:Isaiah 21:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:8>Isaiah 21:8</verse></h3>



And he cried, A (l) lion: My lord, I stand continually upon the watchtower in the daytime, and I am
set in my post whole nights:



(l) Meaning, Darius who overcame Babylon.
#BCV:Isaiah 21:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:9>Isaiah 21:9</verse></h3>



And, behold, here cometh a chariot of men, [with] a couple of horsemen. And (m) he answered and
said, Babylon is fallen, is fallen; and all the graven images of her gods he hath broken to the ground.



(m) The watchman whom Isaiah set up, told him who came toward Babylon, and the angel declared
that it would be destroyed: all this was done in a vision.
#BCV:Isaiah 21:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:10>Isaiah 21:10</verse></h3>



O (n) my threshing, and the grain of my floor: that which I have heard from the LORD of hosts,
the God of Israel, have I declared to you.



(n) Meaning, Babylon.
#BCV:Isaiah 21:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:11>Isaiah 21:11</verse></h3>



The burden of (o) Dumah. He calleth to me out of (p) Seir, Watchman, what of the night?
Watchman, what of the night?



(o) Which was a city of the Ishmaelites and was so named by Dumah, (<bcv=Gen 25:14>Gen 25:14</bcv>).



(p) A mountain of the Idumeans.
#BCV:Isaiah 21:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:12>Isaiah 21:12</verse></h3>

<page=1690>The watchman said, The (q) morning cometh, and also the night: if ye will enquire, enquire ye:
return, come.



(q) He describes the unquietness of the people of Dumah, who were night and day in fear of their
enemies, and ever ran to and fro to enquire news.
#BCV:Isaiah 21:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:13>Isaiah 21:13</verse></h3>



The burden upon Arabia. In (r) the forest in Arabia shall ye lodge, O ye travelling companies of
Dedanim.



(r) For fear, the Arabians will flee into the woods and he appoints the way they will take.
#BCV:Isaiah 21:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:14>Isaiah 21:14</verse></h3>



The inhabitants of the land of Tema brought (s) water to him that was thirsty, they met with their
bread him that fled.



(s) Signifying that for fear they will not tarry to eat or drink.
#BCV:Isaiah 21:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:16>Isaiah 21:16</verse></h3>



For thus hath the Lord said to me, Within a year, (t) according to the years of an (u) hireling, and all
the glory of Kedar shall fail:



(t) He appoints them respite for one year only, and then they would be destroyed.



(u) Read (<bcv=Isa 16:14>Isa 16:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 21:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 21:17>Isaiah 21:17</verse></h3>



And the remainder of the number of archers, the mighty men of the children of (x) Kedar, shall be
diminished: for the LORD God of Israel hath spoken [it].



(x) Which was the name of a people of Arabia: and by the horrible destruction of all these nations,
he teaches the Jews that there is no place for refuge or to escape God's wrath, but only to remain in
his Church, and to live in his fear.

<h2>Isaiah 22</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 22:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:1>Isaiah 22:1</verse></h3>

<page=1691>The burden of the (a) valley of vision. What (b) aileth thee now, that thou hast wholly gone up to
the housetops?



(a) Meaning, Judea, which was compassed about with mountains, and was called the valley of visions,
because of the prophets, who were always there, whom they named Seers.



(b) He speaks to Jerusalem, whose inhabitants fled up to the housetops for fear of their enemies.
#BCV:Isaiah 22:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:2>Isaiah 22:2</verse></h3>



Thou that art full of (c) shoutings, a tumultuous city, a joyous city: thy slain [men are] not slain (d)
with the sword, nor dead in battle.



(c) Which was wont to be full of people and joy.



(d) But for hunger.
#BCV:Isaiah 22:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:3>Isaiah 22:3</verse></h3>



All thy rulers have fled together, they are (e) bound by the archers: all that are found in thee are
bound together, [who] have fled from (f) far.



(e) And led into captivity.



(f) Who have fled from other places to Jerusalem for comfort.
#BCV:Isaiah 22:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:4>Isaiah 22:4</verse></h3>



Therefore said I, Look away from me; I will weep (g) bitterly, labour not to comfort me, because of
the plundering of the daughter of my people.



(g) He shows what is the duty of the godly, when God's plagues hang over the Church, and
especially of the ministers, (<bcv=Jer 9:1>Jer 9:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 22:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:5>Isaiah 22:5</verse></h3>



For [it is] a day of trouble, and of treading down, and of perplexity by the Lord GOD of hosts in
the valley of vision, breaking down the walls, and of (h) crying to the mountains.



(h) That is, the shout of the enemies whom God had appointed to destroy the city.
#BCV:Isaiah 22:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:6>Isaiah 22:6</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 22:6
<h3><verse=isa 22:6>isa 22:6</verse></h3>




(i) He reminds them how God delivered them once from Sennacherib, who brought the Persians
and Syrians with him, that they might by returning to God avoid that great plague which they would
suffer by Nebuchadnezzar.
#BCV:Isaiah 22:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:8>Isaiah 22:8</verse></h3>



And he uncovered the (k) coverings of Judah, and thou didst look in that day to the armour of the
house of the forest.



(k) The secret place where the armour was: that is, in the house of the forest, (<bcv=I Ki 7:2>Kg1 7:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 22:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:9>Isaiah 22:9</verse></h3>



Ye have seen also (l) the breaches of the city of David, that they are many: and ye gathered together
the waters of the lower pool.



(l) You forfeited the ruinous places which were neglected in times of peace: meaning, the whole City,
and the City of David, which was within the compass of the other.
#BCV:Isaiah 22:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:10>Isaiah 22:10</verse></h3>



And ye have numbered the houses (m) of Jerusalem, and the houses have ye broken down to fortify
the wall.



(m) Either to pull down such as might hurt, or else to know what men they were able to make.
#BCV:Isaiah 22:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:11>Isaiah 22:11</verse></h3>



Ye made also a ditch between the two walls for the (n) water of the old pool: but ye have not looked
to (o) its maker, neither had respect to him that fashioned it long ago.



(n) To provide if need should be of water.



(o) To God who made Jerusalem: that is, they trusted more in these worldly means than in God.
#BCV:Isaiah 22:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:13>Isaiah 22:13</verse></h3>



And behold joy and gladness, slaying oxen, and killing sheep, eating flesh, and drinking wine: let us



(p) eat and drink; for to morrow we shall die.

<page=1693>(p) Instead of repentance you were joyful and made great cheer, contemning the admonitions of the
prophets saying Let us eat and drink for our prophets say that we will die tomorrow.
#BCV:Isaiah 22:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:15>Isaiah 22:15</verse></h3>



Thus saith the Lord GOD of hosts, Go, repair to this (q) treasurer, [even] to Shebna, who [is] over
the house, [and say],



(q) Because the Hebrew word also signifies one who nourishes and cherishes, there are those of the
scholars who think that this wicked man nourished a secret friendship with the Assyrians and
Egyptians to betray the Church and to provide for himself against all dangers: in the mean season
he packed craftily, and got of the best offices into his hand under Hezekiah, ever aspiring to the
highest.
#BCV:Isaiah 22:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:16>Isaiah 22:16</verse></h3>



What hast thou here? and whom hast thou here, that thou hast hewed thee out a sepulchre (r) here,
[as] he that heweth him out a sepulchre on high, [and] that cut out an habitation (s) for himself in a
rock?



(r) Meaning, that he was a stranger, and came up of nothing.



(s) While he thought to make his name immortal by his famous sepulchre, he died most miserably
among the Assyrians.
#BCV:Isaiah 22:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:18>Isaiah 22:18</verse></h3>



With violence he will surely turn and toss thee [like] a ball into a wide country: there shalt thou die,
and there the chariots of thy glory [shall be] the (t) shame of thy lord's house.



(t) Signifying that whatever dignity the wicked attain to, at length it will turn to the shame of those
princes by whom they are preferred.
#BCV:Isaiah 22:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:20>Isaiah 22:20</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass in that day, that I will (u) call my servant Eliakim the son of Hilkiah:



(u) To be steward again, out of which office he had been put, by the craft of Shebna.
#BCV:Isaiah 22:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:22>Isaiah 22:22</verse></h3>



And the (x) key of the house of David will I lay upon his shoulder; so he shall open, and none shall
shut; and he shall shut, and none shall open.

<page=1694>(x) I will commit to him the full charge and government of the king's house.
#BCV:Isaiah 22:23
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:23>Isaiah 22:23</verse></h3>



And I will fasten him [as] a (y) nail in a sure place; and he shall be for a glorious throne to his
father's house.



(y) I will establish him, and confirm him in his office, of this phrase read (<bcv=Ezra 9:9>Ezr 9:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 22:24
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:24>Isaiah 22:24</verse></h3>



And they shall hang upon him all the glory of his father's house, the offspring and the issue, (z) all
vessels of small quantity, from the vessels of cups, even to all the vessels of flagons.



(z) Meaning that both small and great who will come from Eliakim, will have praise and glory by his
faithful officer.
#BCV:Isaiah 22:25
<h3><verse=Isaiah 22:25>Isaiah 22:25</verse></h3>



In that day, saith the LORD of hosts, shall the (a) nail that is fastened in the sure place be removed,
and be cut down, and fall; and the burden that [was] upon it shall be cut off: for the LORD hath
spoken [it].



(a) He means Shebna, who in man's judgment should never have fallen.

<h2>Isaiah 23</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 23:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 23:1>Isaiah 23:1</verse></h3>

<page=1695>The (a) burden of Tyre. Howl, ye ships of (b) Tarshish; for (c) it is laid waste, so that there is no
house, no entering in: from the land of (d) Chittim it is (e) revealed to them.



(a) See<bcv=Isa 13:1> Isa 13:1</bcv>



(b) You of Cilicia that come here for merchandise.



(c) Tyrus is destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar.



(d) By Chittim they meant all the isles and countries west of Palestine.



(e) All men know of this destruction.
#BCV:Isaiah 23:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 23:2>Isaiah 23:2</verse></h3>



Be still, ye inhabitants of the isle; thou whom the merchants of Zidon, that pass over the sea, have (f)
replenished.



(f) Have hunted and enriched you.
#BCV:Isaiah 23:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 23:3>Isaiah 23:3</verse></h3>



And by great waters the (g) seed of Sihor, the harvest of the river, [is] her revenue; and she is a
merchandise of nations.



(g) Meaning, the corn of Egypt which was fed by the overflowing of the Nile.
#BCV:Isaiah 23:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 23:4>Isaiah 23:4</verse></h3>



Be thou ashamed, O Zidon: for the (h) sea hath spoken, [even] the strength of the sea, saying, I (i)
travail not, nor bring forth children, neither do I nourish young men, [nor] bring up virgins.



(h) That is, Tyrus, which was the chief part of the sea.



(i) I have no people left in me, and am as a barren woman, that never had children.
#BCV:Isaiah 23:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 23:5>Isaiah 23:5</verse></h3>



As at the report concerning Egypt, [so] shall they be (k) greatly pained at the report of Tyre.



(k) Because these two countries were joined in league together.
#BCV:Isaiah 23:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 23:6>Isaiah 23:6</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 23:6
<h3><verse=isa 23:6>isa 23:6</verse></h3>




(l) Tyrus wills other merchants to go to Cilicia, and to come no more there.
#BCV:Isaiah 23:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 23:8>Isaiah 23:8</verse></h3>



Who hath taken this counsel against Tyre, the (m) crowning [city], whose merchants [are] princes,
whose traders [are] the honourable of the earth?



(m) Who makes her merchants like princes.
#BCV:Isaiah 23:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 23:10>Isaiah 23:10</verse></h3>



Pass through thy land as a river, O (n) daughter of Tarshish: [there is] no more strength.



(n) Your strength will no more serve you: therefore flee to other countries for comfort.
#BCV:Isaiah 23:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 23:12>Isaiah 23:12</verse></h3>



And he said, Thou shalt no more rejoice, O thou oppressed (o) virgin, (p) daughter of Zidon: arise,
pass over to Chittim; there also shalt thou have no rest.



(o) For Tyre was never touched nor afflicted before.



(p) Because Tyrus was built by them of Zidon.
#BCV:Isaiah 23:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 23:13>Isaiah 23:13</verse></h3>



Behold the land of the Chaldeans; this people was not, [till] the (q) Assyrian founded it for them
that dwell in the wilderness: they set up its towers, they raised up its palaces; [and] he (r) brought it
to ruin.



(q) The Chaldeans who dwelt in tents in the wilderness were gathered by the Assyrians into cities.



(r) The people of the Chaldeans destroyed the Assyrians: by which the prophet means that seeing
the Chaldaeans were able to overcome the Assyrians who were so great a nation, much more will
these two nations of Chaldea and Assyria be able to overthrow Tyrus.
#BCV:Isaiah 23:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 23:14>Isaiah 23:14</verse></h3>



Howl, ye ships of Tarshish: for your (s) strength is laid waste.



(s) That is, Tyrus by whom you are enriched.
#BCV:Isaiah 23:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 23:15>Isaiah 23:15</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 23:15
<h3><verse=isa 23:15>isa 23:15</verse></h3>



of one king: after the end of (t) seventy years shall Tyre (u) sing as an harlot.



(t) Tyrus will lie destroyed seventy years which he calls the reign of one king, or a man's age.



(u) Will use all craft and subtilty to entice men again to her.
#BCV:Isaiah 23:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 23:16>Isaiah 23:16</verse></h3>



Take an harp, go about the city, thou harlot that hast been forgotten; (x) make sweet melody, sing
many songs, that thou mayest be remembered.



(x) She will labour by all means to recover her first credit, as a harlot when she is long forgotten,
seeks by all means to entertain her lovers.
#BCV:Isaiah 23:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 23:17>Isaiah 23:17</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass after the end of seventy years, that the LORD will visit Tyre, and she shall
turn to her (y) hire, and shall play the harlot with all the kingdoms of the world upon the face of the
earth.



(y) Though she has been chastised by the Lord, yet she will return to her old wicked practises and
for gain will give herself to all men's lusts like a harlot.
#BCV:Isaiah 23:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 23:18>Isaiah 23:18</verse></h3>



And her merchandise and her hire shall be (z) holiness to the LORD: it shall not be treasured nor
laid up; for her merchandise shall be for them that dwell before the LORD, for sufficient food and
for durable clothing.



(z) He shows that God yet by the preaching of the gospel will call Tyre to repentance and turn her
heart from evil and filthy gain, to the true worshipping of God, and liberality toward his saints.

<h2>Isaiah 24</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 24:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 24:1>Isaiah 24:1</verse></h3>

<page=1698>Behold, the LORD maketh the (a) earth empty, and maketh it waste, and turneth it upside down,
and scattereth abroad its inhabitants.



(a) This prophecy is as a conclusion of that which has been threatened to the Jews and other nations
from the 13th chapter and therefore by the earth he means those lands which were named before.
#BCV:Isaiah 24:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 24:2>Isaiah 24:2</verse></h3>



And it shall be, as with the people, so with the (b) priest; as with the servant, so with his master; as
with the maid, so with her mistress; as with the buyer, so with the seller; as with the lender, so with
the borrower; as with the taker of interest, so with the giver of interest to him.



(b) Because this was a name of dignity it was also applied to them who were not of Aaron's family,
and so signifies also a man of dignity, as in (<bcv=II Sa 8:18>Sa2 8:18</bcv>; <bcv=2Sam 20:25>Sa2 20:25</bcv>; <bcv=1Ch 18:17>Ch1 18:17</bcv>) and by these words the
prophet signifies a horrible confusion, where there will be neither religion, order nor policy, (<bcv=Hos 4:9>Hos 4:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 24:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 24:5>Isaiah 24:5</verse></h3>



The earth (c) also is defiled under its inhabitants; because they have transgressed the laws, changed
the ordinance, broken the everlasting covenant.



(c) That is, does not give her fruit for the sin of the people, whom the earth deceived of their
nourishment because they deceived God of his honour.
#BCV:Isaiah 24:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 24:6>Isaiah 24:6</verse></h3>



Therefore hath the (d) curse devoured the earth, and they that dwell in it are desolate: therefore the
inhabitants of the earth are (e) burned, and few men left.



(d) Written in the law, as in (<bcv=Lev 26:14>Lev 26:14</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 28:16> Deu 28:16</bcv>) thus the prophets used to apply particularly the
menaces and promises which are general in the law.



(e) With heat and drought, or else that they were consumed with the fire of God's wrath.
#BCV:Isaiah 24:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 24:10>Isaiah 24:10</verse></h3>



The city of (f) confusion is broken down: every house is shut up, that no man may enter.



(f) Which as it was without order so now should it be brought to desolation and confusion: and this
was not only meant of Jerusalem, but of all the other wicked cities.
#BCV:Isaiah 24:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 24:11>Isaiah 24:11</verse></h3>

<page=1699>[There is] a crying for wine in the streets; all joy is darkened, the (g) mirth of the land is gone.



(g) Because they did not use God's benefits correctly their pleasures would fail, and they would fall
to mourning.
#BCV:Isaiah 24:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 24:13>Isaiah 24:13</verse></h3>



When thus it shall be in the midst of the land among the people, [there shall be] (h) as the shaking
of an olive tree, [and] as the gleaning grapes when the vintage is done.



(h) He comforts the faithful, declaring that in this great desolation the Lord will assemble his
Church which will praise his Name, as in (<bcv=Isa 10:22>Isa 10:22</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 24:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 24:14>Isaiah 24:14</verse></h3>



They shall lift up their voice, they shall sing for the majesty of the LORD, they shall cry aloud from



(i) the sea.



(i) From the utmost coasts of the world, where the gospel will be preached as in (<bcv=Isa 24:16>Isa 24:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 24:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 24:16>Isaiah 24:16</verse></h3>



From the uttermost part of the earth have we heard songs, [even] glory to the (k) righteous. But I
said, (l) My leanness, my leanness, woe to me! the treacherous dealers have dealt treacherously; yea,
the treacherous dealers have dealt very treacherously.



(k) Meaning to God, who will publish his gospel through all the world.



(l) I am consumed with care, considering the affliction of the Church, both by foreign enemies and
domestic. Some read, My secret, my secret: that is, it was revealed to the prophet, that the good
would be preserved and the wicked destroyed.
#BCV:Isaiah 24:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 24:18>Isaiah 24:18</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, [that] he who fleeth from the noise of the fear shall fall into the pit; and
he that cometh up out of the midst of the pit shall be taken in the snare: for the (m) windows from
on high are open, and the foundations of the earth do shake.



(m) Meaning that God's wrath and vengeance would be over and under them, so that they would not
escape no more than they did at Noah's flood.
#BCV:Isaiah 24:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 24:21>Isaiah 24:21</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 24:21
<h3><verse=isa 24:21>isa 24:21</verse></h3>



[that are] on high, and the kings of the earth upon the earth.



(n) There is no power so high or mighty, but God will visit him with his rods.
#BCV:Isaiah 24:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 24:22>Isaiah 24:22</verse></h3>



And they shall be gathered together, [as] prisoners are gathered in the pit, and shall be shut up in the
prison, and after many days shall they be (o) visited.



(o) Not with his rods as in (<bcv=Isa 24:21>Isa 24:21</bcv>) but will be comforted.
#BCV:Isaiah 24:23
<h3><verse=Isaiah 24:23>Isaiah 24:23</verse></h3>




(p) Then the moon shall be confounded, and the sun ashamed, when the LORD of hosts shall reign
on mount Zion, and in Jerusalem, and before his ancients gloriously.



(p) When God restores his Church, the glory of it will so shine, and his ministers (who are called his
ancient men) that the sun and the moon will be dark in comparison to it.

<h2>Isaiah 25</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 25:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 25:1>Isaiah 25:1</verse></h3>

<page=1701>O LORD, thou (a) [art] my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done
wonderful [things; thy] counsels of old [are] faithfulness [and] truth.



(a) Thus the prophet gives thanks to God because he will bring under subjection these nations by his
corrections, and make them of his Church, who before were his enemies.
#BCV:Isaiah 25:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 25:2>Isaiah 25:2</verse></h3>



For thou hast made of a (b) city an heap; [of] a fortified city a ruin: a palace (c) of foreigners to be
no city; it shall never be built.



(b) Not only of Jerusalem, but also of these other cities which have been your enemies.



(c) That is, a place where all vagabonds may live without danger and as it were at ease as in a palace.
#BCV:Isaiah 25:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 25:3>Isaiah 25:3</verse></h3>



Therefore shall the (d) strong people glorify thee, the city of the terrible nations shall fear thee.



(d) The arrogant and proud who before would not know you will by your corrections fear and
glorify you.
#BCV:Isaiah 25:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 25:4>Isaiah 25:4</verse></h3>



For thou hast been a defence to the poor, a defence to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the
storm, a shade from the heat, when the blast (e) of the terrible ones [is] as a storm [against] the wall.



(e) The rage of the wicked is furious, till God breaks the force of it.
#BCV:Isaiah 25:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 25:5>Isaiah 25:5</verse></h3>



Thou shalt bring down the noise of strangers, as the (f) heat in a dry place; (g) [even] the heat with
the shadow of a cloud: the branch of the terrible ones shall be brought low.



(f) Meaning, that as the heat is abated by the rain, so shall God bring down the rage of the wicked.



(g) As a cloud shades from the heat of the sun, so God will assuage the rejoicing of the wicked
against the godly.
#BCV:Isaiah 25:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 25:6>Isaiah 25:6</verse></h3>

<page=1702>And on this (h) mountain shall the LORD of hosts make to all people a feast of fat things, a feast
of wines on the lees, of fat things full of marrow, of wines on the lees well refined.



(h) That is, in Zion, by which he means his Church, which would under Christ be assembled of the
Jews and the Gentiles, and is here described under the figure of a costly banquet, as in (<bcv=Mat 22:2>Mat 22:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 25:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 25:7>Isaiah 25:7</verse></h3>



And he will destroy on this mountain (i) the face of the covering cast over all people, and the veil
that is spread over all nations.



(i) Meaning, that ignorance and blindness, by which we are kept back from Christ.
#BCV:Isaiah 25:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 25:8>Isaiah 25:8</verse></h3>



He will swallow up death in victory; and the Lord GOD will (k) wipe away tears from off all faces;
and the rebuke of his people shall he remove from all the earth: for the LORD hath spoken [it].



(k) He will take away all opportunity for sorrow and fill his with perfect joy, (<bcv=Rev 7:17>Rev 7:17</bcv>,<bcv=Rev 21:4> Rev 21:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 25:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 25:10>Isaiah 25:10</verse></h3>



For on this mountain shall the hand of the LORD rest, and (l) Moab shall be trodden down under
him, even as straw is trodden down for the (m) dunghill.



(l) By Moab are meant all the enemies of his Church.



(m) There were two cities by this name: one in Judah, (<bcv=1Ch 6:81>Ch1 6:81</bcv>) and another in the land of Moab,
(<bcv=Jer 48:2>Jer 48:2</bcv>) which seems to have been a plentiful place of corn, (<bcv=Isa 36:17>Isa 36:17</bcv>).

<h2>Isaiah 26</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 26:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:1>Isaiah 26:1</verse></h3>

<page=1703>In that day shall (a) this song be sung in the land of Judah; We have a strong city; (b) salvation will
[God] appoint [for] walls and bulwarks.



(a) This song was made to comfort the faithful when their captivity would come, assuring them also
of their deliverance, for which they should sing this song.



(b) God's protection and defence will be sufficient for us.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:2>Isaiah 26:2</verse></h3>




(c) Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in.



(c) He assures the godly to return after the captivity to Jerusalem.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:3>Isaiah 26:3</verse></h3>



Thou wilt keep [him] in perfect peace, [whose] (d) mind [is] stayed [on thee]: because he trusteth in
thee.



(d) You have decreed so, and your purpose cannot be changed.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:5>Isaiah 26:5</verse></h3>



For he bringeth down them that dwell on high; (e) the lofty city, he layeth it low; he layeth it low,
[even] to the ground; he bringeth it [even] to the dust.



(e) There is no power so high that it can hinder God, when he will deliver his.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:6>Isaiah 26:6</verse></h3>



The foot shall tread it down, [even] the feet of the (f) poor, [and] the steps of the needy.



(f) God will set the poor afflicted over the power of the wicked.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:8>Isaiah 26:8</verse></h3>



Yea, in the way of thy (g) judgments, O LORD, have we waited for thee; the desire of [our] soul [is]
to thy name, and to the remembrance of thee.



(g) We have constantly abode in the adversities with which you had afflicted us.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:9>Isaiah 26:9</verse></h3>

<page=1704>With my soul have I desired thee in the night; yea, with my spirit within me will I seek thee early: for
when thy judgments [are] in the earth, the inhabitants of the world will learn (h) righteousness.



(h) Meaning that by afflictions men will learn to fear God.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:10>Isaiah 26:10</verse></h3>



Let favour (i) be shown to the wicked, [yet] he will not learn righteousness: in the land of
uprightness he will deal unjustly, and will not behold the majesty of the LORD.



(i) The wicked though God show them evident signs of his grace, will not be any better off.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:11>Isaiah 26:11</verse></h3>



LORD, [when] thy hand is lifted up, they will not see: [but] they shall see, and be ashamed for [their]



(k) envy at the people; yea, the fire of thy (l) enemies shall devour them.



(k) Through envy and indignation against your people.



(l) The fire and vengeance with which you destroy your enemies.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:13>Isaiah 26:13</verse></h3>



O LORD our God, [other] (m) lords beside thee have had dominion over us: [but] by thee only will
we make mention of thy name.



(m) The Babylonians, who have not governed according to your word.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:14>Isaiah 26:14</verse></h3>



[They are] (n) dead, they shall not live; [they are] deceased, they shall not rise: therefore hast thou
visited and destroyed them, and made all their memory to perish.



(n) Meaning that the reprobate even in this life will have the beginning of everlasting death.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:15>Isaiah 26:15</verse></h3>



Thou hast increased (o) the nation, O LORD, thou hast increased the nation: thou art glorified: thou
hadst removed [it] far [to] all the ends of the earth.



(o) That is, the company of the faithful by the calling of the Gentiles.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:16>Isaiah 26:16</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 26:16
<h3><verse=isa 26:16>isa 26:16</verse></h3>



upon them.



(p) That is, the faithful by the rods were moved to pray to you for deliverance.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:17>Isaiah 26:17</verse></h3>



As a woman with child, [that] draweth near the time of her delivery, is in pain, [and] crieth out in her
pangs; so have we been in thy (q) sight, O LORD.



(q) That is, in extreme sorrow.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:18>Isaiah 26:18</verse></h3>



We have been with child, we have been in pain, we have as it were brought forth (r) wind; we have
not wrought any deliverance on the earth; neither have the inhabitants of (s) the world fallen.



(r) Our sorrows had no end, neither did we enjoy the comfort that we looked for.



(s) The wicked and men without religion were not destroyed.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:19>Isaiah 26:19</verse></h3>




(t) Thy dead [men] shall live, [together with] my dead body shall they arise. Awake and sing, ye that
dwell in dust: for thy (u) dew [is as] the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead.



(t) He comforts the faithful in their afflictions, showing them that even in death they will have life
and that they would certainly rise to glory, the contrary would come to the wicked, as in (<bcv=Isa 26:14>Isa 26:14</bcv>).



(u) As herbs dead in winter flourish again by the rain in the springtime, so they who lie in the dust
will rise up to joy, when they feel the dew of God's grace.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:20>Isaiah 26:20</verse></h3>



Come, my people, (x) enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it
were for a little moment, until the indignation shall be past.



(x) He exhorts the faithful to be patient in their afflictions and to wait on God's work.
#BCV:Isaiah 26:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 26:21>Isaiah 26:21</verse></h3>



For, behold, the LORD cometh out of his place to punish the inhabitants of the earth for their
iniquity: the earth also shall disclose her (y) blood, and shall no more cover her slain.

<page=1706>(y) The earth will vomit and cast out the innocent blood, which it has drunk, that it may care for
vengeance against the wicked.

<h2>Isaiah 27</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 27:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 27:1>Isaiah 27:1</verse></h3>

<page=1707>In that (a) day the LORD with his severe and great and strong (b) sword shall punish leviathan the
piercing serpent, even leviathan that crooked serpent; and he shall slay the dragon that [is] in the sea.



(a) At the time appointed.



(b) That is, by his mighty power, and by his word. He prophecies here of the destruction of Satan
and his kingdom under the name of Liviashan, Assur, and Egypt.
#BCV:Isaiah 27:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 27:2>Isaiah 27:2</verse></h3>



In that day sing ye to her, A vineyard (c) of red wine.



(c) Meaning, of the best wine, which this vineyard, that is, the Church would bring forth, as most
agreeable to the Lord.
#BCV:Isaiah 27:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 27:4>Isaiah 27:4</verse></h3>



Fury (d) [is] not in me: who would set the briers [and] thorns against me in battle? I would go
through them, I would burn them together.



(d) Therefore he will destroy the kingdom of Satan, because he loves his Church for his own
mercies sake, and cannot be angry with it, but wishes that he may pour his anger on the wicked
infidels, whom he means by briers and thorns.
#BCV:Isaiah 27:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 27:5>Isaiah 27:5</verse></h3>



Or let him (e) take hold of my strength, [that] he may make peace with me; [and] he shall make
peace with me.



(e) He marvels that Israel will not come by gentleness, unless God make them to feel his rods, and
so bring them to him.
#BCV:Isaiah 27:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 27:6>Isaiah 27:6</verse></h3>




(f) He shall cause them that descend from Jacob to take root: Israel shall blossom and bud, and fill
the face of the world with fruit.



(f) Though I afflict and diminish my people for a time, yet will the root spring again and bring forth
in great abundance.
#BCV:Isaiah 27:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 27:7>Isaiah 27:7</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 27:7
<h3><verse=isa 27:7>isa 27:7</verse></h3>



slaughter of them that are slain by him?



(g) He shows that God punishes his in mercy, and his enemies in justice.
#BCV:Isaiah 27:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 27:8>Isaiah 27:8</verse></h3>



In (h) measure, when it shooteth forth, thou wilt debate with it: he stayeth his rough wind in the day
of the east wind.



(h) That is, you will not destroy the root of your Church, though the branches of it seem to perish
by the sharp wind of affliction.
#BCV:Isaiah 27:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 27:9>Isaiah 27:9</verse></h3>



By this therefore shall the iniquity of Jacob be purged; and this [is] all the (i) fruit to take away his
sin; when he maketh all the stones of the altar as chalkstones that are beaten asunder, the idols and
images shall not stand up.



(i) He shows that there is no true repentance nor full reconciliation to God, till the heart is purged
from all idolatry and the monuments of it are destroyed.
#BCV:Isaiah 27:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 27:10>Isaiah 27:10</verse></h3>



Yet the (k) fortified city [shall be] desolate, [and] the habitation forsaken, and left like a wilderness:
there shall the calf feed, and there shall he lie down, and consume its branches.



(k) Not withstanding his favour that he will show them later, yet Jerusalem will be destroyed, and
grass for cattle will grow in it.
#BCV:Isaiah 27:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 27:11>Isaiah 27:11</verse></h3>



When its boughs are withered, they shall be broken off: the (l) women come, [and] set them on fire:
for it [is] a people of no understanding: therefore he that made them will not have mercy on them,
and he that formed them will show them no favour.



(l) God will not have need of mighty enemies: for the very women will do it to their great shame.
#BCV:Isaiah 27:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 27:12>Isaiah 27:12</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] the LORD shall gather from the channel of the (m) river
to the stream of Egypt, and ye shall be gathered one by one, O ye children of Israel.

<page=1709>(m) He will destroy all from the Euphrates to the Nile: for some fled toward Egypt, thinking to have
escaped.
#BCV:Isaiah 27:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 27:13>Isaiah 27:13</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] the great trumpet shall be (n) blown, and they shall come
who were ready to perish in the land of Assyria, and the outcasts in the land of Egypt, and shall
worship the LORD on the holy mount at Jerusalem.



(n) In the time of Cyrus, by whom they would be delivered: but this was chiefly accomplished under
Christ.

<h2>Isaiah 28</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 28:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:1>Isaiah 28:1</verse></h3>

<page=1710>Woe to the (a) crown of pride, to the drunkards of Ephraim, whose glorious beauty [is] a fading
flower, who [are] on the head of the rich (b) valleys of them that are overcome with wine!



(a) Meaning, the proud kingdom of the Israelites, who were drunk with worldly prosperity.



(b) Because the Israelites for the most part dwelt in plentiful valleys, he means by this the valley of
them who had abundance of worldly prosperity and were as it were crowned with garlands.
#BCV:Isaiah 28:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:2>Isaiah 28:2</verse></h3>



Behold, the Lord hath a mighty and (c) strong one, [which] as a tempest of hail [and] a destroying
storm, as a flood of mighty waters overflowing, shall cast down to the earth with the hand.



(c) He seems to mean the Assyrians, by whom the ten tribes were carried away.
#BCV:Isaiah 28:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:4>Isaiah 28:4</verse></h3>



And the glorious beauty, which [is] on the head of the rich valley, shall be a fading flower, [and] as (d)
the early fruit before the summer; which [when] he that looketh upon it seeth, while it is yet in his
hand he eateth it up.



(d) Which is not of long continuance, but is soon ripe and first eaten.
#BCV:Isaiah 28:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:5>Isaiah 28:5</verse></h3>



In that day shall the LORD of hosts be for a crown of glory, and for a diadem of beauty, to the (e)
remnant of his people,



(e) Signifying that the faithful who do not put their trust in any worldly prosperity but made God
their glory, will be preserved.
#BCV:Isaiah 28:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:6>Isaiah 28:6</verse></h3>



And for a spirit of judgment to him that sitteth in judgment, and for (f) strength to them that turn
the battle to the gate.



(f) He will give counsel to the governor and strength to the captain to drive the enemies in at their
own gates.
#BCV:Isaiah 28:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:7>Isaiah 28:7</verse></h3>

<page=1711>But (g) they also have erred through wine, and through strong drink are out of the way; the priest
and the prophet have erred through strong drink, they are overwhelmed with wine, they are out of
the way through strong drink; they err in vision, they stumble [in] judgment.



(g) Meaning, the hypocrites who were among them, and were altogether corrupt in life and doctrine,
which is here meant by drunkenness and vomiting.
#BCV:Isaiah 28:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:9>Isaiah 28:9</verse></h3>




(h) Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? [them that
are] weaned from the milk, [and] drawn from the breasts.



(h) For there was no one that was able to understand any good doctrine: but were foolish and as
unfit as young babes.
#BCV:Isaiah 28:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:10>Isaiah 28:10</verse></h3>



For (i) precept [must be] upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a
little, [and] there a little:



(i) They must have one thing often repeated.
#BCV:Isaiah 28:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:11>Isaiah 28:11</verse></h3>



For with stammering (k) lips and another tongue will he speak to this people.



(k) Let one teach what he can, yet they will no more understand him, than if he spoke in a strange
language.
#BCV:Isaiah 28:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:12>Isaiah 28:12</verse></h3>



To whom (l) he said, (m) This [is] the rest [with which] ye may (n) cause the weary to rest; and this
[is] the refreshing: yet they would not hear.



(l) That is, the prophet, whom God would send.



(m) This is the doctrine on which you ought to stay and rest.



(n) Show to them that are weary and have need of rest, what the true rest is.
#BCV:Isaiah 28:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:13>Isaiah 28:13</verse></h3>



But the word of the (o) LORD was to them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon
line, line upon line; here a little, [and] there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be
broken, and snared, and taken.

<page=1712>(o) Because they will not receive the word of God, when it is offered, it comes of their own malice,
if after their hearts are so hardened, that they care not for it, as before, (<bcv=Isa 6:9>Isa 6:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 28:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:15>Isaiah 28:15</verse></h3>



Because ye have said, We have made a (p) covenant with death, and with hell are we in agreement;
when the overflowing scourge shall pass through, it shall not reach us: for we have made lies our
refuge, and under (q) falsehood have we hid ourselves:



(p) They thought they had shifts to avoid God's judgments, and that they could escape though all
others perished.



(q) Though the prophets condemned their idols and vain fruit of falsehood and vanity, yet the
wicked thought in themselves that they would trust in these things.
#BCV:Isaiah 28:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:16>Isaiah 28:16</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I lay in Zion for a foundation a stone, a (r) tried stone,
a precious corner [stone], a sure foundation: he that believeth (s) shall not make haste.



(r) That is, Christ, by whom all the building must be tried and upheld, 
(<bcv=Psa 118:22>Psa 118:22</bcv>; <bcv=Mat 21:42>Mat 21:42</bcv>; <bcv=Acts 4:11>Act 4:11</bcv>; <bcv=Rom 9:33>Rom 9:33</bcv>; <bcv=1Pe 2:6>Pe1 2:6</bcv>).



(s) He will be quiet, and seek no other remedies, but be content with Christ.

#BCV:Isaiah 28:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:17>Isaiah 28:17</verse></h3>



Judgment also will I lay to the line, and (t) righteousness to the plummet: and the (u) hail shall sweep
away the refuge of lies, and the waters shall overflow (x) the hiding place.



(t) In the restitution of his Church, judgment and justice will reign.



(u) God's corrections and affliction.



(x) Affliction will discover their vain confidence, which they kept secret to themselves.
#BCV:Isaiah 28:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:19>Isaiah 28:19</verse></h3>



From the time that it goeth forth it shall take you: for morning by morning shall it pass over, by day
and by night: and it shall be a (y) vexation only [to] understand the report.



(y) Terror and destruction will make you learn that which exhortations and gentleness could not
bring you to.
#BCV:Isaiah 28:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:20>Isaiah 28:20</verse></h3>

<page=1713>For the bed is (z) shorter than that [a man] can stretch himself [on it]: and the covering narrower
than that he can wrap himself [in it].



(z) Your affliction will be so sore, that you are not able to endure it.
#BCV:Isaiah 28:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:21>Isaiah 28:21</verse></h3>



For the LORD shall rise as [on] mount (a) Perazim, he shall be angry as [in] the valley (b) of Gibeon,
that he may do his work, his strange work; and bring to pass his act, his strange act.



(a) When David overcame the Philistines, (<bcv=II Sa 5:20>Sa2 5:20</bcv>; <bcv=1Ch 14:11>Ch1 14:11</bcv>).



(b) Where Joshua discomfited five kings of the Amorites, (<bcv=Jos 10:12>Jos 10:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 28:25
<h3><verse=Isaiah 28:25>Isaiah 28:25</verse></h3>



When he hath made (c) even the face of it, doth he not cast abroad the black cummin, and scatter
the cummin, and cast in the wheat in rows and the appointed barley and the rye in their place?



(c) As the plowman has his appointed time, and various instruments for his labour, so has the Lord
for his vengeance: for he punishes some at one time, and some at another, some after one sort, and
some after another, so that his chosen seed is beaten and tried, but not broken as are the wicked.

<h2>Isaiah 29</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 29:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 29:1>Isaiah 29:1</verse></h3>

<page=1714>Woe to (a) Ariel, to Ariel, the city [where] David dwelt! add ye year to year; (b) let them kill sacrifices.



(a) Or Ariel: the Hebrew word <transhebrew>Ariel<english> signifies the Lion of God, and signifies the Altar, because the
altar seemed to devour the sacrifice that was offered to God, as in (<bcv=Ezek 43:16>Eze 43:16</bcv>).

(b) Your vain confidence in your sacrifices will not last long.

#BCV:Isaiah 29:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 29:2>Isaiah 29:2</verse></h3>



Yet I will distress Ariel, and there shall be heaviness and sorrow: and it shall be to me (c) as Ariel.



(c) Your city will be full of blood as an altar on which they sacrifice.
#BCV:Isaiah 29:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 29:4>Isaiah 29:4</verse></h3>



And thou shalt be brought down, [and] shalt speak out of the (d) ground, and thy speech shall be
low out of the dust, and thy voice shall be, like a medium, out of the ground, and thy speech shall
whisper out of the dust.



(d) Your speech will be no longer be so lofty but abased and low as the very charmers who are in
low places and whisper, so that their voice can scarcely by heard.
#BCV:Isaiah 29:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 29:5>Isaiah 29:5</verse></h3>



Moreover the multitude of thy (e) strangers shall be like small dust, and the multitude of the terrible
ones [shall be] as chaff that passeth away: yea, it shall be at an instant suddenly.



(e) Your hired soldiers in whom you trusted, will be destroyed as dust or chaff in a whirlwind.
#BCV:Isaiah 29:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 29:7>Isaiah 29:7</verse></h3>



And the (f) multitude of all the nations that fight against Ariel, even all that fight against her and her
strong hold, and that distress her, shall be as a dream of a night vision.



(f) The enemies that I will bring to destroy you, and that which you place your vain trust in will
come at unawares even as a dream in the night. Some read as if this was a comfort to the Church for
the destruction of their enemies.
#BCV:Isaiah 29:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 29:8>Isaiah 29:8</verse></h3>

<page=1715>It shall even be as when an hungry [man] dreameth, and, behold, (g) he eateth; but he awaketh, and
his soul is empty: or as when a thirsty man dreameth, and, behold, he drinketh; but he awaketh, and,
behold, [he is] faint, and his soul hath appetite: so shall the multitude of all the nations be, that fight
against mount Zion.



(g) That is, he thinks that he eats.
#BCV:Isaiah 29:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 29:9>Isaiah 29:9</verse></h3>




(h) Stay yourselves, and wonder; cry ye out, and cry: they are drunk, but not with wine; they stagger,
but not with strong drink.



(h) Muse on this a long as ye like, yet you will find nothing but opportunity to be astonished for your
prophets are blind, and therefore cannot direct you.
#BCV:Isaiah 29:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 29:11>Isaiah 29:11</verse></h3>



And the vision of all is become to you as the words of a book that is sealed, which [men] deliver to
one that is learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith, I (i) cannot; for it [is] sealed:



(i) Meaning, that it is all alike, either to read, or not to read, unless God open the heart to understand.
#BCV:Isaiah 29:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 29:13>Isaiah 29:13</verse></h3>



Wherefore the Lord said, Forasmuch as this people (k) draw near [me] with their mouth, and with
their lips do honour me, but have removed their heart far from me, and their (l) fear toward me is
taught by the precept of men:



(k) Because they are hypocrites and not sincere in heart, as in (<bcv=Mat 15:7-8>Mat 15:7-8</bcv>).



(l) That is, their religion was learned by man's doctrine, and not by my word.
#BCV:Isaiah 29:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 29:14>Isaiah 29:14</verse></h3>



Therefore, behold, I will proceed to do a marvellous work among this people, [even] an wonderful
work and a wonder: for the wisdom of their wise [men] shall (m) perish, and the understanding of
their prudent [men] shall be hid.



(m) Meaning, where God is not worshipped according to his word, both magistrates and ministers
are fools and without understanding.
#BCV:Isaiah 29:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 29:15>Isaiah 29:15</verse></h3>

<page=1716>Woe to them that (n) seek deep to hide their counsel from the LORD, and their works are in the
dark, and they say, Who seeth us? and who knoweth us?



(n) This is spoken of them who in heart despised God's word, and mocked at the admonitions but
outwardly bore a good face.
#BCV:Isaiah 29:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 29:16>Isaiah 29:16</verse></h3>



Surely your turning of things upside down shall be esteemed (o) as the potter's clay: for shall the
work say of him that made it, He made me not? or shall the thing formed say of him that formed it,
He had no understanding?



(o) For all your craft says the Lord, you are not able to escape my hands any more than the clay that
is in the potter's hands has power to deliver itself.
#BCV:Isaiah 29:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 29:17>Isaiah 29:17</verse></h3>



[Is] it not yet a very little while, and Lebanon shall be (p) turned into a fruitful field, and the fruitful
field shall be esteemed as a forest?



(p) Will there not be a change of all things? Carmel is a plentiful place in respect to what it will be
then and may be taken for a forest, as in (<bcv=Isa 32:15>Isa 32:15</bcv>) and thus he speaks to comfort the faithful.
#BCV:Isaiah 29:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 29:21>Isaiah 29:21</verse></h3>



That make a man an offender for a (q) word, and lay a snare for him that reproveth in the gate, and
turn aside the just for a thing of nothing.



(q) They who went about to find fault with the prophets words, and would not abide admonitions,
but would entangle them and bring them into danger.
#BCV:Isaiah 29:24
<h3><verse=Isaiah 29:24>Isaiah 29:24</verse></h3>



They also that erred in spirit (r) shall come to understanding, and they that murmured shall learn
doctrine.



(r) Signifying that unless God gives understanding and knowledge, man cannot but still err and
murmur against him.

<h2>Isaiah 30</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 30:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:1>Isaiah 30:1</verse></h3>

<page=1717>Woe to the (a) rebellious children, saith the LORD, that take counsel, but not from me; and that (b)
cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin:



(a) Who contrary to their promise take not me for their protector and contrary to my
commandment seek help from strangers.



(b) They seek shifts to cloak their doings and not godly means.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:4>Isaiah 30:4</verse></h3>



For his (c) princes were at Zoan, and his ambassadors came to Hanes.



(c) The chief of Israel went into Egypt as an ambassador to seek help and abode at these cities.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:6>Isaiah 30:6</verse></h3>



The (d) burden of the beasts of the south: into the land of trouble and anguish, from which [come]
the young and the old lion, the viper and flying serpent, they will carry their riches upon the
shoulders of young donkeys, and their treasures upon the humps of camels, to a people [that] shall
not profit [them].



(d) That is, a heavy sentence or prophecy against the beasts that carried their treasures into Egypt,
by the wilderness, which was south from Judah, signifying that if the beasts would not be spared, the
men would be punished much more grievously.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:7>Isaiah 30:7</verse></h3>



For the Egyptians shall help in vain, and to no purpose: therefore have I cried (e) concerning this,
Their strength (f) [is] to sit still.



(e) That is, to Jerusalem.



(f) And not to come to and fro to seek help.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:8>Isaiah 30:8</verse></h3>



Now go, write (g) it before them in a tablet, and note it in a book, that it may be for the (h) time to
come for ever and ever:



(g) That is, this prophecy.

<page=1718>(h) That is may be a witness against them for all posterity.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:9>Isaiah 30:9</verse></h3>



That this [is] a rebellious people, lying children, children [that] will not (i) hear the law of the LORD:



(i) He shows what was the cause of their destruction and brings also all misery to man: that is,
because they would not hear the word of God, but delighted to be flattered and led in error.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:10>Isaiah 30:10</verse></h3>



Who say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not to us right things, speak to us
smooth things, prophesy (k) deceits:



(k) Threaten us not by the word of God, neither be so rigorous, nor talk to us in the Name of the
Lord, as in (<bcv=Jer 11:21>Jer 11:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 30:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:12>Isaiah 30:12</verse></h3>



Wherefore thus saith the Holy One of Israel, Because ye despise this word, and trust in (l)
oppression and perverseness, and lean upon it:



(l) Meaning, in their stubbornness against God and the admonitions of his prophets.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:14>Isaiah 30:14</verse></h3>



And he shall break it as the breaking of the potter's vessel that is broken in pieces; he shall not spare:
so that there shall not be found in the bursting of it (m) a piece to take fire from the hearth, or to
take water out of the pit.



(m) Signifying that the destruction of the wicked will be without recovery.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:15>Isaiah 30:15</verse></h3>



For thus saith the (n) Lord GOD, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in
quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not.



(n) Often by his prophets he put you in remembrance of this, that you should only depend on him.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:16>Isaiah 30:16</verse></h3>



But ye said, No; for we will flee upon (o) horses; therefore shall ye flee: and, We will ride upon the
swift; therefore shall they that pursue you be swift.

<page=1719>(o) We will trust to escape by our horses.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:17>Isaiah 30:17</verse></h3>



One thousand [shall flee] at the rebuke of one; at the rebuke of five shall ye flee: till ye be left as a
beacon upon the (p) top of a mountain, and as an ensign on an hill.



(p) Whereas all the trees are cut down save two or three to make masts.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:18>Isaiah 30:18</verse></h3>



And therefore will the LORD wait, that he may be (q) gracious to you, and therefore will he be
exalted, that he may have mercy upon you: for the LORD [is] a God of



(r) judgment: blessed [are] all they that wait for him.



(q) He commends the great mercies of God, who with patience waits to call sinners to repentance.



(r) Not only in punishing but in using moderation in the same, as in (<bcv=Jer 10:24>Jer 10:24</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 30:11> Jer 30:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 30:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:21>Isaiah 30:21</verse></h3>



And thy ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This [is] the way, (s) walk ye in it, when ye turn to
the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.



(s) God will direct all your ways and appoint you how to go either hither or thither.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:22>Isaiah 30:22</verse></h3>



Ye shall (t) defile also the covering of thy graven images of silver, and the ornament of thy molten
images of gold: thou shalt cast them away as a polluted cloth; thou shalt say to it, (u) Be gone from
me.




(t) You will cast away your idols which you have made of gold and silver with all that belongs to
them, as a most filthy thing and polluted.



(u) Showing that there can be no true repentance, unless both in heart and deed we show ourselves
enemies to idolatry.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:25
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:25>Isaiah 30:25</verse></h3>



And there shall be upon every high (x) mountain, and upon every high hill, rivers [and] streams of
waters in the day of the great slaughter, when the towers fall.

<page=1720>(x) By these various manners of speech he shows that the happiness of the Church will be so great,
that no one is able sufficiently to express it.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:26
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:26>Isaiah 30:26</verse></h3>



Moreover the light of the moon shall be as the light of the sun, and the light of the (y) sun shall be
sevenfold, as the light of seven days, in the day that the LORD bindeth up the breach of his people,
and healeth the stroke of their wound.



(y) When the Church is restored, the glory of it will pass seven times the brightness of the sun: for
by the sun and moon which are two excellent creations, he shows what will be the glory of the
children of God in the kingdom of Christ.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:27
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:27>Isaiah 30:27</verse></h3>



Behold, (z) the name of the LORD cometh from far, burning [with] his anger, and the burden [of it
is] heavy: his lips are full of indignation, and his tongue as a devouring fire:



(z) This threatening is against the Assyrians the chief enemies of the people of God.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:28
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:28>Isaiah 30:28</verse></h3>



And his breath, as an overflowing stream, shall reach to the midst of the neck, to sift the nations
with the sieve of (a) vanity: and [there shall be] a bridle in the jaws of the people, causing [them] to
err.



(a) To drive you to nothing: and thus God consumes the wicked by that means, by which he cleanses
his.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:29
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:29>Isaiah 30:29</verse></h3>



Ye shall have a song, as in the (b) night [when] a holy solemnity is kept; and gladness of heart, as
when one goeth with a pipe to come upon the mountain of the LORD, to the mighty One of Israel.



(b) You will rejoice at the destruction of your enemies, as they who sang for joy at the solemn feast,
which began in the evening.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:31
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:31>Isaiah 30:31</verse></h3>



For through the voice of the LORD shall the Assyrian be beaten down, [who] smote with a (c) rod.



(c) God's plague.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:32
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:32>Isaiah 30:32</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 30:32
<h3><verse=isa 30:32>isa 30:32</verse></h3>



shall be with (e) tabrets and harps: and in battles of shaking will he fight (f) with it.



(d) It will destroy.



(e) With joy and assurance of the victory.



(f) Against Babel, meaning the Assyrians and Babylonians.
#BCV:Isaiah 30:33
<h3><verse=Isaiah 30:33>Isaiah 30:33</verse></h3>



For (g) Tophet [is] ordained of old; yea, for the (h) king it is prepared; he hath made [it] (i) deep [and]
large: the pile of it [is] fire and much wood; the breath of the LORD, like a stream of brimstone,
doth kindle it.



(g) Here it is taken for hell, where the wicked are tormented, read (<bcv=II Ki 23:10>Kg2 23:10</bcv>).



(h) So that their estate or degree cannot exempt the wicked.



(i) By these figurative speeches he declares the condition of he wicked after this life.

<h2>Isaiah 31</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 31:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 31:1>Isaiah 31:1</verse></h3>

<page=1722>Woe to them that (a) go down to Egypt for help; and rely on horses, and trust in chariots, because
[they are] many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not to the Holy One
of Israel, neither (b) seek the LORD!



(a) There were two special reasons why the Israelites should not join with the Egyptians: first,
because the Lord had commanded them never to return there, (<bcv=Deu 17:16>Deu 17:16</bcv>,<bcv=Deu 28:68> Deu 28:68</bcv>) lest they
should forget the benefit of their redemption: and secondly, lest they should be corrupted with the
superstition and idolatry of the Egyptians, and so forsake God, (<bcv=Jer 2:18>Jer 2:18</bcv>).



(b) Meaning, that they forsake the Lord, if they put their trust in worldly things: for they cannot
trust in both.
#BCV:Isaiah 31:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 31:2>Isaiah 31:2</verse></h3>



Yet he also [is] (c) wise, and will bring evil, and will not call back his words: but will arise against the
house of the evildoers, and against the help of them that work iniquity.



(c) And knows their crafty enterprises, and will bring all to nought.
#BCV:Isaiah 31:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 31:3>Isaiah 31:3</verse></h3>



Now the Egyptians [are] men, and not God; and their horses flesh, and not spirit. When the LORD
shall stretch out his hand, both he that (d) helpeth shall fall, and he that is helped shall fall down,
and they all shall fail together.



(d) Meaning, both the Egyptians and the Israelites.
#BCV:Isaiah 31:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 31:4>Isaiah 31:4</verse></h3>



For thus hath the LORD spoken to me, As the lion and the young lion roaring on his prey, when a
multitude of shepherds is called forth against him, [he] will not be afraid of their voice, nor abase
himself for the noise of them: so shall the LORD of hosts come (e) down to fight for mount Zion,
and for its hill.



(e) He shows the Jews that if they would put their trust in him, he is so able, that no one can resist
his power and so care over them, as a bird over her young, which ever flies about them for their
defence: which similitude the scripture uses in various places, as in (<bcv=Deu 32:11>Deu 32:11</bcv>;<bcv=Mat 23:37> Mat 23:37</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 31:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 31:6>Isaiah 31:6</verse></h3>

<page=1723>Turn ye to [him from] whom the children of Israel have (f) deeply revolted.



(f) He touches their conscience that they might earnestly feel their grievous sins, and so truly repent,
for as much as now they are almost drowned and past recovery.
#BCV:Isaiah 31:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 31:7>Isaiah 31:7</verse></h3>



For in that day every man shall (g) cast away his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which your
own hands have made to you [for] a sin.



(g) By these fruits your repentance will be known, as in (<bcv=Isa 2:20>Isa 2:20</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 31:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 31:8>Isaiah 31:8</verse></h3>




(h) Then shall the Assyrian fall with the sword, not of man; and the sword, not of men, shall devour
him: but he shall flee from the sword, and his young men shall be made vessels.



(h) When your repentance appears.
#BCV:Isaiah 31:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 31:9>Isaiah 31:9</verse></h3>



And he shall pass over to his (i) strong hold for fear, and his princes shall be afraid of the ensign,
saith the LORD, whose (k) fire [is] in Zion, and his furnace in Jerusalem.



(i) This was accomplished soon after when Sennacherib's army was discomfited, and he fled to his
castle in Nineveh for comfort.



(k) To destroy his enemies.

<h2>Isaiah 32</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 32:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 32:1>Isaiah 32:1</verse></h3>

<page=1724>Behold, (a) a king shall reign in righteousness, and princes shall (b) rule in judgment.



(a) This prophecy is of Hezekiah, who was a figure of Christ, and therefore it should chiefly be
referred to him.



(b) By judgment and justice is meant an upright government, both in policy and religion.
#BCV:Isaiah 32:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 32:2>Isaiah 32:2</verse></h3>



And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as streams of
water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in (c) a weary land.



(c) Where men are weary with travelling for lack of water.
#BCV:Isaiah 32:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 32:3>Isaiah 32:3</verse></h3>



And the eyes of (d) them that see shall not be dim, and the ears of them that hear shall hearken.



(d) He promises to give the true light which is the pure doctrine of God's word, and understanding,
and zeal of the same, are contrary to the threatenings against the wicked, (<bcv=Isa 6:9>Isa 6:9</bcv>,<bcv=Isa 29:10> Isa 29:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 32:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 32:5>Isaiah 32:5</verse></h3>



The (e) vile person shall be no more called noble, nor the churl said [to be] bountiful.



(e) Vice will no more be called virtue, nor virtue esteemed by power and riches.
#BCV:Isaiah 32:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 32:9>Isaiah 32:9</verse></h3>



Rise up, ye women that are at ease; hear my voice, ye (f) careless daughters; give ear to my speech.



(f) He prophecies of such calamity to come that they will not spare the women and children, and
therefore wills them to take heed and provide.
#BCV:Isaiah 32:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 32:10>Isaiah 32:10</verse></h3>



Many days and years shall ye be troubled, (g) ye careless women: (h) for the vintage shall fail, the
gathering shall not come.



(g) Meaning that the affliction would continue long and when one year was past, yet they should
look for new plagues.

<page=1725>(h) God will take from you the means and opportunities, which made you contemn him: that is,
abundance of worldly goods.
#BCV:Isaiah 32:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 32:12>Isaiah 32:12</verse></h3>



They shall lament for the (i) breasts, for the pleasant fields, for the fruitful vine.



(i) By the breasts he means the plentiful fields, by which men are nourished as children with the
breast: or, the mothers for sorrow and heaviness will lack milk.
#BCV:Isaiah 32:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 32:15>Isaiah 32:15</verse></h3>



Until the (k) spirit shall be poured upon us from on high, and the wilderness shall be a fruitful field,
and the (l) fruitful field shall be counted for a forest.



(k) That is, when the Church will be restored, thus the prophets after they have denounced God's
judgments against the wicked, used to comfort the godly, lest they should faint.



(l) The field which is now fruitful, will be but as a barren forest in comparison to what it will be then
as in (<bcv=Isa 29:17>Isa 29:17</bcv>) which will be fulfilled in Christ's time, for then they who were before as the barren
wilderness, being regenerate will be fruitful and they who had some beginning of godliness, will
bring forth fruit in such abundance, that their former life will seem but as a wilderness where no
fruit was.
#BCV:Isaiah 32:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 32:19>Isaiah 32:19</verse></h3>



When it shall hail, coming down on the forest; and the (m) city shall be low in a low place.



(m) They will not need to build it in high places for fear of the enemy: for God will defend it, and
turn away the storms from hurting their conveniences.
#BCV:Isaiah 32:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 32:20>Isaiah 32:20</verse></h3>



Blessed [are] ye (n) that sow beside all waters, that (o) send forth [there] the feet of the ox and the
donkey.



(n) That is, upon fat ground and well watered, which brings forth in abundance, or in places which
before were covered with waters, and now made dry for your uses.



(o) The fields will be so rank, that they will send out their cattle to eat up the first crop, which
abundance will be signs of God's love and favour toward them.

<h2>Isaiah 33</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 33:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:1>Isaiah 33:1</verse></h3>

<page=1726>Woe to thee that (a) layest waste, and thou [wast] not laid waste; and dealest treacherously, and they
dealt not treacherously with thee! when thou shalt (b) cease to lay waste, thou shalt be wasted; [and]
when thou shalt make an end of dealing treacherously, (c) they shall deal treacherously with thee.



(a) Meaning, the enemies of the Church, as were the Chaldeans and Assyrians, but chiefly of
Sennacherib, but not only.



(b) When your appointed time will come that God will take away your power: and that which you
have wrongfully gained, will be given to others, as in (<bcv=Amos 5:11>Amo 5:11</bcv>).



(c) The Chaldeans will do the same to the Assyrians, as the Assyrians did to Israel, and the Medes
and Persians will do the same to the Chaldeans.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:2>Isaiah 33:2</verse></h3>




(d) O LORD, be gracious to us; we have waited for thee: be thou (e) their arm every morning, our
salvation also in the time of trouble.



(d) He declares by this what is the chief refuge of the faithful, when troubles come, to pray, and seek
help from God.



(e) Which helped our fathers as soon as they called on you.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:3>Isaiah 33:3</verse></h3>



At the noise of the tumult the (f) people fled; at the (g) lifting up of thyself the nations were
scattered.



(f) That is, the Assyrians fled before the army of the Chaldeans, or the Chaldeans for fear of the
Medes and Persians.



(g) When you, O Lord, lifted up your arm to punish your enemies.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:4>Isaiah 33:4</verse></h3>



And your spoil shall be gathered [like] the gathering of the (h) caterpiller: as the running to and fro
of locusts shall (i) he run upon them.



(h) You who as caterpillars destroyed with your number the whole world, will have no strength to
resist your enemies the Chaldeans: but will be gathered on a heap and destroyed.



(i) Meaning, the Medes and Persians against the Chaldeans.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:6>Isaiah 33:6</verse></h3>

<page=1727>And wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of (k) thy times, [and] strength of salvation: the
fear of the LORD [is] his treasure.



(k) That is, in the days of Hezekiah.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:7>Isaiah 33:7</verse></h3>



Behold, (l) their valiant ones shall cry outside: the (m) ambassadors of peace shall weep bitterly.



(l) Sent from Sennacherib.



(m) Whom they of Jerusalem sent to intreat of peace.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:8>Isaiah 33:8</verse></h3>



The (n) highways lie waste, the wayfaring man ceaseth: he hath broken the covenant, he hath
despised the cities, he regardeth no man.



(n) These are the words of the ambassadors, when they returned from Sennacherib.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:9>Isaiah 33:9</verse></h3>



The earth mourneth [and] languisheth: Lebanon is ashamed [and] hewn down: (o) Sharon is like a
wilderness; and Bashan and Carmel shake off [their fruits].



(o) Which was a plentiful country, meaning, that Sennacherib would destroy all.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:10>Isaiah 33:10</verse></h3>



Now will I (p) rise, saith the LORD; now will I be exalted; now will I lift up myself.



(p) To help and deliver my Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:11>Isaiah 33:11</verse></h3>




(q) Ye shall conceive chaff, ye shall bring forth stubble: your breath, [as] fire, shall devour you.



(q) This is spoken against the enemies, who thought all was their own, but he shows that their
enterprise will be in vain, and that the fire which they had kindled for others would consume them.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:13>Isaiah 33:13</verse></h3>

<page=1728>Ye [that are] (r) far off, hear what I have done; and, ye [that are] near, acknowledge my might.



(r) His vengeance will be so great that all the world will talk of it.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:14>Isaiah 33:14</verse></h3>



The (s) sinners in Zion are afraid; fearfulness hath surprised the hypocrites. Who among us shall
dwell with the devouring fire? who among us shall dwell with everlasting burnings?



(s) Which do not believe the words of the prophet, and the assurance of their deliverance.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:16>Isaiah 33:16</verse></h3>



He shall dwell on (t) high: his place of defence [shall be] the strong holds of rocks: bread shall be
given him; his waters [shall be] sure.



(t) Meaning, that God will be a sure defence to all them that live according to his word.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:17>Isaiah 33:17</verse></h3>



Thy eyes shall (u) see the king in his beauty: they shall behold the (x) land that is very far off.



(u) They will see Hezekiah delivered from his enemies and restored to honour and glory.



(x) They will be no more shut in as they were by Sennacherib, but go where it pleases them.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:18>Isaiah 33:18</verse></h3>



Thy heart (y) shall meditate terror. Where [is] the scribe? where [is] the receiver? where [is] he that
counted the towers?



(y) Before this liberty comes you will think that you are in great danger: for the enemy will so sharply
assail you that one will cry "Where is the clerk that writes the names of them who are taxed?"
another, "Where is the receiver?" another will cry for him that values the rich houses, but God will
deliver you from this fear.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:21>Isaiah 33:21</verse></h3>



But there the glorious LORD [will be] to us a place (z) of broad rivers [and] streams; in which shall
go no galley with oars, neither shall gallant ship pass through it.



(z) Let us be content with this small river of Shiloah and not desire the great streams and rivers, by
which the enemies may bring in ships and destroy us.
#BCV:Isaiah 33:23
<h3><verse=Isaiah 33:23>Isaiah 33:23</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 33:23
<h3><verse=isa 33:23>isa 33:23</verse></h3>



then is the (b) prey of a great spoil divided; the lame take the prey.



(a) He derides the Assyrians and enemies of the Church, declaring their destruction as they who
perish by shipwreck.



(b) He comforts the Church, and shows that they will be enriched with all benefits both of body and
soul.

<h2>Isaiah 34</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 34:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 34:1>Isaiah 34:1</verse></h3>

<page=1730>Come near, ye (a) nations, to hear; and hearken, ye people: let the earth hear, and all that is in it; the
world, and all things that spring from it.



(a) He prophecies of the destruction of the Edomites and other nations which were enemies to the
Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 34:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 34:2>Isaiah 34:2</verse></h3>



For the indignation of the LORD [is] upon all nations, and [his] fury upon all their armies: he hath
utterly (b) destroyed them, he hath delivered them to the slaughter.



(b) God has determined in his counsel and has given sentence for their destruction.
#BCV:Isaiah 34:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 34:4>Isaiah 34:4</verse></h3>



And all the host of heaven (c) shall be dissolved, and the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll:
and all their hosts shall fall down, as the leaf falleth from the vine, and as a falling [fig] from the fig
tree.



(c) He speaks this in respect to man's judgment, who in great fear and horrible troubles, think that
heaven and earth perishes.
#BCV:Isaiah 34:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 34:5>Isaiah 34:5</verse></h3>



For my sword shall be (d) bathed in heaven: behold, it shall come down upon Edom, and upon the
people of (e) my curse, to judgment.



(d) I have determined in my secret counsel and in the heavens to destroy them till my sword is weary
with shedding blood.



(e) They had an opinion of holiness, because they came from the patriarch Isaac, but in effect were
cursed by God, and enemies to his Church as the papists are.
#BCV:Isaiah 34:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 34:6>Isaiah 34:6</verse></h3>



The sword of the LORD is filled with blood, it is made fat with fatness, [and] with the blood of (f)
lambs and goats, with the fat of the kidneys of rams: for the LORD hath a sacrifice in (g) Bozrah,
and a great slaughter in the land of Edom.



(f) That is, both of young and old, poor and rich of his enemies.

<page=1731>(g) That famous city will be consumed as a sacrifice burnt to ashes.
#BCV:Isaiah 34:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 34:7>Isaiah 34:7</verse></h3>



And the (h) unicorns shall come down with them, and the bulls with the bulls; and their land shall be
soaked with blood, and their dust made fat with fatness.



(h) The mighty and rich will be as well destroyed as the inferiors.
#BCV:Isaiah 34:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 34:9>Isaiah 34:9</verse></h3>



And its streams shall be turned into pitch, and its dust into (i) brimstone, and its land shall become
burning pitch.



(i) He alludes to the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, (<bcv=Gen 19:24>Gen 19:24</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 34:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 34:11>Isaiah 34:11</verse></h3>



But the cormorant (k) and the bittern shall possess it; the owl also and the raven shall dwell in it: and
he shall stretch out upon it the line of (l) confusion, and the stones of emptiness.



(k) Read (<bcv=Isa 13:21>Isa 13:21</bcv>;<bcv=Zep 2:14> Zep 2:14</bcv>).



(l) In vain will any man go about to build it again.
#BCV:Isaiah 34:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 34:12>Isaiah 34:12</verse></h3>




(m) They shall call her nobles to the kingdom, but none [shall be] there, and all her princes shall be
nothing.



(m) Meaning, here will be neither order nor policy nor state of commonwealth.
#BCV:Isaiah 34:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 34:14>Isaiah 34:14</verse></h3>



The wild beasts of the desert shall also (n) meet with the wild beasts of the isle, and the satyr shall
cry to his fellow; the screech owl also shall rest there, and find for herself a place of rest.



(n) Read (<bcv=Isa 13:21>Isa 13:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 34:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 34:15>Isaiah 34:15</verse></h3>



There (o) shall the great owl make her nest, and lay, and hatch, and gather under her shadow: there
shall the vultures also be gathered, every one with her mate.



(o) Signifying that Idumea would be a horrible desolation and barren wilderness.
#BCV:Isaiah 34:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 34:16>Isaiah 34:16</verse></h3>

<page=1732>Seek ye out of the (p) book of the LORD, and read: no one of (q) these shall fail, none shall lack
her mate: for my (r) mouth it hath commanded, and his spirit it hath gathered them.



(p) That is, in the law where such curses are threatened against the wicked.



(q) That is, beasts and souls.



(r) That is, the mouth of the Lord.
#BCV:Isaiah 34:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 34:17>Isaiah 34:17</verse></h3>



And he hath cast the (s) lot for them, and his hand hath divided it to them by line: they shall possess
it for ever, from generation to generation shall they dwell in it.



(s) He has given the beasts and souls Idumea for an inheritance.

<h2>Isaiah 35</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 35:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 35:1>Isaiah 35:1</verse></h3>

<page=1733>The (a) wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and
blossom as the rose.



(a) He prophecies of the full restoration of the Church both of the Jews and Gentiles under Christ,
which will be fully accomplished at the last day: although as yet it is compared to a desert and
wilderness.
#BCV:Isaiah 35:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 35:2>Isaiah 35:2</verse></h3>



It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be
given to it, the excellence of (b) Carmel and Sharon, they shall (c) see the glory of the LORD, [and]
the excellence of our God.



(b) The Church which was before compared to a barren wilderness will by Christ be made most
plenteous and beautiful.



(c) He shows that the presence of God is the reason that the Church brings forth fruit and
flourishes.
#BCV:Isaiah 35:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 35:3>Isaiah 35:3</verse></h3>




(d) Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees.



(d) He wills all to encourage one another, and especially the ministers to exhort and strengthen the
weak, that they may patiently abide the coming of God, which is at hand.
#BCV:Isaiah 35:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 35:4>Isaiah 35:4</verse></h3>



Say to them [that are] of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come [with] (e)
vengeance, [even] God [with] a recompence; he will come and save you.



(e) To destroy your enemies.
#BCV:Isaiah 35:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 35:5>Isaiah 35:5</verse></h3>



Then the eyes of the (f) blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped.



(f) When the knowledge of Christ is revealed.
#BCV:Isaiah 35:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 35:6>Isaiah 35:6</verse></h3>

<page=1734>Then shall the lame [man] leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb shall sing: for in the (g)
wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert.



(g) They who were barren and destitute of the graces of God, will have them given by Christ.
#BCV:Isaiah 35:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 35:8>Isaiah 35:8</verse></h3>



And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of (h) holiness; the unclean
shall not pass over it; but it (i) [shall be] for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err [in
it].



(h) It will be for the saints of God and not for the wicked.



(i) God will lead and guide them, alluding to the bringing forth of Egypt.
#BCV:Isaiah 35:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 35:9>Isaiah 35:9</verse></h3>



No lion shall be there, nor [any] (k) ravenous beast shall go up on it, it shall not be found there; but
the redeemed shall walk [there]:



(k) As he threatens the wicked with destruction by this, (<bcv=Isa 30:6>Isa 30:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 35:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 35:10>Isaiah 35:10</verse></h3>



And the (l) ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy
upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.



(l) Whom the Lord will deliver from the captivity of Babylon.

<h2>Isaiah 36</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 36:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 36:1>Isaiah 36:1</verse></h3>

<page=1735>Now it came to pass (a) in the (b) fourteenth year of king Hezekiah, [that] Sennacherib king of
Assyria came up against all the fortified cities of Judah, and took them.



(a) This history is rehearsed because it is as a seal and confirmation of the doctrine before, both for
the threatenings and promises: that is, that God would permit his Church to be afflicted, but at
length would send deliverance.



(b) When he had abolished superstition, and idolatry, and restored religion, yet God would exercise
his Church to try their faith and patience.
#BCV:Isaiah 36:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 36:3>Isaiah 36:3</verse></h3>



Then came forth to him Eliakim, Hilkiah's son, who was (c) over the house, and Shebna (d) the
scribe, and Joah, Asaph's son, the recorder.



(c) For he was now restored to his office, as Isaiah had prophesied in (<bcv=Isa 22:20>Isa 22:20</bcv>).



(d) This declares that there were few godly to be found in the king's house, when he was driven to
end this wicked man in such a weighty matter.
#BCV:Isaiah 36:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 36:4>Isaiah 36:4</verse></h3>



And (e) Rabshakeh said to them, Say ye now to Hezekiah, Thus saith the great king, the king of
Assyria, What confidence [is] this in which thou trustest?



(e) Sennacherib's chief captain.
#BCV:Isaiah 36:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 36:5>Isaiah 36:5</verse></h3>



I say, (f) [sayest thou], (but [they are but] vain words) [I have] counsel and strength for war: now on
whom dost thou trust, that thou rebellest against me?



(f) He speaks this in the person of Hezekiah, falsely charging him that he put his trust in his wit and
eloquence, while his only confidence was in the Lord.
#BCV:Isaiah 36:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 36:6>Isaiah 36:6</verse></h3>



Lo, thou trustest in the staff of this broken reed, on Egypt; on which if a man lean, it will enter his
hand, and pierce it: so [is] (g) Pharaoh king of Egypt to all that trust in him.

<page=1736>(g) Satan laboured to pull the godly king from one vain confidence to another: that is, from trust in
the Egyptians, whose power was weak and would deceive them, to yield himself to the Assyrians,
and so not to hope for any help from God.
#BCV:Isaiah 36:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 36:9>Isaiah 36:9</verse></h3>



How then wilt thou turn away the face of one captain of the (h) least of my master's servants, and
put thy trust on Egypt for chariots and for horsemen?



(h) He reproaches Hezekiah's small power, which is not able to resist one of Sennacherib's least
captains.
#BCV:Isaiah 36:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 36:10>Isaiah 36:10</verse></h3>



And am I now come up without the LORD against this land to destroy it? the LORD said to me, (i)
Go up against this land, and destroy it.



(i) Thus the wicked to deceive us, will pretend the Name of the Lord: but we must try the spirits,
whether they are of God or not.
#BCV:Isaiah 36:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 36:11>Isaiah 36:11</verse></h3>



Then said Eliakim and Shebna and Joah to Rabshakeh, (k) Speak, I pray thee, to thy servants in the
Syrian language; for we understand [it]: and speak not to us in the Jews' language, in the ears of the
people that [are] on the wall.



(k) They were afraid, lest by his words, he should have stirred up the people against the king, and
also pretended to grow to some appointment with him.
#BCV:Isaiah 36:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 36:16>Isaiah 36:16</verse></h3>



Hearken not to Hezekiah: for thus saith the king of Assyria, Make (l) [an agreement] with me [by] a
present, and come out to me: and eat ye every one of his vine, and every one of his fig tree, and
drink ye every one the waters of his own cistern;



(l) The Hebrew word signifies blessing, by which this wicked captain would have persuaded the
people, that their condition would be better under Sennacherib than under Hezekiah.
#BCV:Isaiah 36:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 36:19>Isaiah 36:19</verse></h3>



Where [are] the gods of (m) Hamath and Arphad? where [are] the gods of Sepharvaim? and have
they delivered Samaria out of my hand?

<page=1737>(m) That is, of Antioch in Syria, of which these two other cities also were: by which we see how
every town had its peculiar idol, and how the wicked make God an idol because they do not
understand that God makes them his scourge, and punishes cities for sin.
#BCV:Isaiah 36:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 36:21>Isaiah 36:21</verse></h3>



But they (n) held their peace, and answered him not a word: for the king's commandment was,
saying, Answer him not.



(n) Not that they did not show by evident signs that they detested his blasphemy: or they had now
rent their clothes, but they knew it was in vain to use long reasoning with this infidel, whose reign
they would have so much more provoked.

<h2>Isaiah 37</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 37:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:1>Isaiah 37:1</verse></h3>

<page=1738>And it came to pass, when king Hezekiah heard [it], that he (a) tore his clothes, and covered himself
with sackcloth, and went into the house of the LORD.



(a) In sign of grief and repentance.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:2>Isaiah 37:2</verse></h3>



And he sent Eliakim, who [was] over the household, and Shebna the scribe, and the elders of the
priests covered with sackcloth, to (b) Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz.



(b) To have comfort from him by the word of God, that his faith might be confirmed and so his
prayer be more earnest: teaching by it that in all dangers these two are the only remedies to seek to
God and his ministers.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:3>Isaiah 37:3</verse></h3>



And they said to him, Thus saith Hezekiah, This day [is] a day of trouble, and of rebuke, and of
blasphemy: for the children are come to the (c) birth, and [there is] not strength to bring forth.



(c) We are in as great sorrow as a woman in labour who cannot be delivered.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:4>Isaiah 37:4</verse></h3>



It may be the LORD thy God will (d) hear the words of Rabshakeh, whom the king of Assyria his
master hath sent to reproach the living God, and will reprove the words which the LORD thy God
hath heard: wherefore (e) lift up [thy] prayer for the remnant that is left.



(d) That is, will declare by effect that he has heard it: for when God defers to punish, it seems to the
flesh, that he knows not the sin, or hears not the cause.



(e) Declaring that the ministers office stands not only in comforting by the word, but also in praying
for the people.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:7>Isaiah 37:7</verse></h3>



Behold, I will send a wind upon him, and he shall hear a (f) rumour, and return to his own land; and
I will cause him to fall by the sword in his own land.



(f) Of the Egyptians and Ethiopians, who will come and fight against him.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:8>Isaiah 37:8</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 37:8
<h3><verse=isa 37:8>isa 37:8</verse></h3>



that he had departed from Lachish.



(g) Which was a city toward Egypt, thinking by it to have stayed the force of his enemies.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:10>Isaiah 37:10</verse></h3>



Thus shall ye speak to Hezekiah king of Judah, saying, Let not thy God, in whom thou trustest, (h)
deceive thee, saying, Jerusalem shall not be given into the hand of the king of Assyria.



(h) Thus God would have him utter a most horrible blasphemy before his destruction: as to call the
author of all truth a deceiver: some gather by this that Shebna had disclosed to Sennacherib the
answer that Isaiah sent to the king.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:12>Isaiah 37:12</verse></h3>



Have the gods of the nations delivered them which my fathers have destroyed, [as] (i) Gozan, and (k)
Haran, and Rezeph, and the children of Eden who [were] in Telassar?



(i) Which was a city of the Medes.



(k) Called also Charre a city in Mesopotamia, from which Abraham came after his fathers death.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:16>Isaiah 37:16</verse></h3>



O LORD of hosts, God of Israel, that (l) dwellest [between] the cherubim, thou [art] the God,
[even] thou alone, of all the kingdoms of the earth: thou hast made heaven and earth.



(l) He grounds his prayer on God's promise, who promised to hear them from between the
Cherubims.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:18>Isaiah 37:18</verse></h3>



Of a truth, LORD, the kings of Assyria have laid waste all the nations, and (m) their countries,



(m) Meaning, the ten tribes.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:20>Isaiah 37:20</verse></h3>



Now therefore, O LORD our God, save us from his hand, that (n) all the kingdoms of the earth
may know that thou [art] the LORD, [even] thou only.



(n) He declares for what cause he prayed, that they might be glorified by it through all the world.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:22>Isaiah 37:22</verse></h3>

<page=1740>This [is] the word which the LORD hath spoken concerning him; The (o) virgin, the daughter of
Zion, hath despised, [and] derided thee; the daughter of Jerusalem hath shaken her head at thee.



(o) Whom God had chosen to himself as a chaste virgin, and over whom he had care to preserve
her from the lusts of the tyrant, as a father would have over his daughter.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:23
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:23>Isaiah 37:23</verse></h3>



Whom hast thou reproached and blasphemed? and against whom hast thou exalted [thy] voice, and
lifted thy eyes on high? [even] against the (p) Holy One of Israel.



(p) Declaring by this that they who are enemies to God's Church fight against him whose quarrel his
Church only maintains.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:25
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:25>Isaiah 37:25</verse></h3>



I have dug, (q) and drank water; and with the sole of my feet have I dried up all the rivers of the
besieged places.



(q) He boasts of his policy in that he can find means to nourish his army: and of his power in that
his army is so great, that it is able to dry up whole rivers, and to destroy the waters which the Jews
had closed in.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:26
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:26>Isaiah 37:26</verse></h3>



Hast thou not heard long ago, [how] I have done it; [and] of ancient times, (r) that I have formed it?
now have I brought it to pass, that thou shouldest be to lay waste fortified cities [into] ruinous heaps.



(r) Signifying that God did not make his Church to destroy it, but to preserve it: and therefore he
says that he formed it of old, even in his eternal counsel which cannot be changed.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:27
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:27>Isaiah 37:27</verse></h3>



Therefore their inhabitants [were] of small power, they were dismayed and confounded: they were
[as] the grass of the field, and [as] the green herb, [as] the grass on the housetops, and [as grain]
blighted (s) before it is grown up.



(s) He shows that the state and power of most flourishing cities endures but a moment in respect to
the Church, which will remain forever, because God is the maintainer of it.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:28
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:28>Isaiah 37:28</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 37:28
<h3><verse=isa 37:28>isa 37:28</verse></h3>




(t) Meaning, his counsels and enterprises.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:29
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:29>Isaiah 37:29</verse></h3>



Because thy rage against me, and thy tumult, is come up into my ears, therefore I will put my (u)
hook in thy nose, and my bridle in thy lips, and I will turn thee back by the way by which thou (x)
camest.



(u) Because Sennacherib showed himself as a devouring fish and furious beast, he uses these
similarities to teach how he will take him and guide him.



(x) You will lose your labour.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:30
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:30>Isaiah 37:30</verse></h3>



And this [shall be] a (y) sign to thee, Ye shall eat
[this] year such as groweth of itself; and the (z) second year that which springeth of the same: and in
the third year sow ye, and reap, and plant vineyards, and eat the fruit of them.



(y) God gives signs after two sorts: some go before the thing as the signs that Moses worked in
Egypt, which were for the confirmation of their faith, and some go after the thing, as the sacrifice,
which they were commanded to make three days after their departure: and these latter are to keep
the blessings of God in our remembrance, of which sort this here is.



(z) He promises that for two years the ground would feed them of itself.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:31
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:31>Isaiah 37:31</verse></h3>



And (a) the remnant that hath escaped of the house of Judah shall again take root downward, and
bear fruit upward:



(a) They whom God has delivered out of the hands of the Assyrians will prosper: and this properly
belongs to the Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:35
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:35>Isaiah 37:35</verse></h3>



For I will defend this city to save it for my own sake, and for my servant (b) David's sake.



(b) For my promise sake made to David.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:37
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:37>Isaiah 37:37</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 37:37
<h3><verse=isa 37:37>isa 37:37</verse></h3>




(c) Which was the chiefest city of the Assyrians.
#BCV:Isaiah 37:38
<h3><verse=Isaiah 37:38>Isaiah 37:38</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, as he was worshipping in the house of Nisroch his god, that Adrammelech and
Sharezer his sons smote him with the sword; and they escaped into the land of Armenia: and (d)
Esarhaddon his son reigned in his stead.



(d) Who was also called Sardanapalus, in whose days ten years after Sennacherib's death the
Chaldeans overcame the Assyrians by Merodach their king.

<h2>Isaiah 38</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 38:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:1>Isaiah 38:1</verse></h3>

<page=1743>In those (a) days was Hezekiah sick and near death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came
to him, and said to him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thy house in order: for thou shalt die, and not
live.



(a) Soon after that the Assyrians were slain: so that God will have the exercise of his children
continually, that they may learn only to depend on God and aspire to the heavens.
#BCV:Isaiah 38:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:2>Isaiah 38:2</verse></h3>



Then Hezekiah (b) turned his face toward the wall, and prayed to the LORD,



(b) For his heart was touched with fear of God's judgment, seeing he had appointed him to die so
quickly after his deliverance from so great calamity, as one unworthy to remain in that estate, and
also foreseeing the great change that would come in the Church, as he left no son to reign after him:
for as yet Manasseh was not born, and when he reigned, we see what a tyrant he was.
#BCV:Isaiah 38:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:6>Isaiah 38:6</verse></h3>



And I will deliver thee and this city (c) from the hand of the king of Assyria: and I will defend this
city.



(c) He not only promises to prolong his life, but to give him rest and quietness from the Assyrians,
who might have renewed their army to revenge their former defeat.
#BCV:Isaiah 38:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:7>Isaiah 38:7</verse></h3>



And (d) this [shall be] a sign to thee from the LORD, that the LORD will do this thing that he hath
spoken;



(d) For Hezekiah had asked for a sign for the confirmation of his faith, as in (<bcv=Isa 38:22>Isa 38:22</bcv>;<bcv=2Ki 20:8> Kg2 20:8),</bcv> to
which he was moved by the singular motion of God's spirit.
#BCV:Isaiah 38:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:8>Isaiah 38:8</verse></h3>



Behold, I will bring again the shadow of the degrees, which hath gone down on the (e) sun dial of
Ahaz, ten degrees backward. So the sun returned ten degrees, by which degrees it had gone down.



(e) Read (<bcv=II Ki 20:8>Kg2 20:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 38:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:9>Isaiah 38:9</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 38:9
<h3><verse=isa 38:9>isa 38:9</verse></h3>



sickness:



(f) He left this song of his lamentation and thanksgiving to all posterity, as a monument of his own
infirmity and thankful heart for God's benefits, as David did, (<bcv=Psa 51:1>Psa 51:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 38:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:10>Isaiah 38:10</verse></h3>



I said in the (g) cutting off of my days, I shall go to the gates of the grave: I am deprived of the rest
of my years.



(c) At which time it was told to me, that I would die.
#BCV:Isaiah 38:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:11>Isaiah 38:11</verse></h3>



I said, (h) I shall not see the LORD, [even] the LORD, in the land of the living: I shall behold man
no more with the inhabitants of the world.



(h) I will no more praise the Lord here in this temple among the faithful thus God permits his
dearest children to want his consolation for a time that his grace afterward may appear when they
feel their own weakness.
#BCV:Isaiah 38:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:12>Isaiah 38:12</verse></h3>



My age hath departed, and is removed from me as a shepherd's tent: I (i) have cut off like a weaver
my life: he will cut me off with pining sickness: from day [even] (k) to night wilt thou make an end
of me.



(i) By my sin I have provoked God to take my life from me.



(k) That is, in one day, or shortly.
#BCV:Isaiah 38:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:13>Isaiah 38:13</verse></h3>



I reckoned (l) till morning, [that], as a lion, so will he break all my bones: from day [even] to night
wilt thou make an end of me.



(l) Overnight I thought that I would live till morning, but my pangs in the night persuaded me the
contrary: he shows the horror that the faithful have when they apprehend God's judgment against
their sin.
#BCV:Isaiah 38:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:14>Isaiah 38:14</verse></h3>

<page=1745>Like a crane [or] a swallow, so I (m) chattered: I mourned as a dove: my eyes fail [with looking]
upward: O LORD, I am oppressed; undertake for me.



(m) I was so oppressed with sorrow, that I was not able to utter my words, but only to groan and
sigh.
#BCV:Isaiah 38:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:15>Isaiah 38:15</verse></h3>



What shall I say? (o) he hath both spoken to me, and himself hath done [it]: I shall go (p) softly all
my years in the bitterness of my soul.



(o) God has declared by his prophet that I will die and therefore I will yield to him.



(p) I will have no release, but continual sorrows while I live.
#BCV:Isaiah 38:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:16>Isaiah 38:16</verse></h3>



O Lord, (q) by these [things men] live, and in all these [things is] the life of my spirit: so wilt thou (r)
restore me, and make me to live.



(q) They who will outlive the men that are now alive, and all they who are in these years will
acknowledge this blessing.



(r) That after that you had condemned me to death you restored me to life.
#BCV:Isaiah 38:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:17>Isaiah 38:17</verse></h3>



Behold, for (s) peace I had great bitterness: but thou hast in love to my soul [delivered it] from the
pit of corruption: for thou hast cast all my (t) sins behind thy back.



(s) While I thought to have lived in rest and ease being delivered from my enemy, I had grief upon
grief.



(t) He values more the remission of his sins, and God's favour than a thousand lives.
#BCV:Isaiah 38:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:18>Isaiah 38:18</verse></h3>



For (u) the grave cannot praise thee, death can [not] celebrate thee: they that go down into the pit
cannot hope for thy truth.



(u) For as much as God has placed man in this world to glorify him, the godly take it as a sign of his
wrath, when their days were shortened, either because they seemed unworthy for their sins to live
longer in his service, or for their zeal to God's glory, seeing that there are so few in earth who regard
it as in (<bcv=Psa 6:5>Psa 6:5</bcv>,<bcv=Psa 115:17> Psa 115:17</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 38:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:19>Isaiah 38:19</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 38:19
<h3><verse=isa 38:19>isa 38:19</verse></h3>



known thy truth.



(x) All posterity will acknowledge and the fathers according to their duty toward their children will
instruct them in your graces and mercies toward me.
#BCV:Isaiah 38:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:20>Isaiah 38:20</verse></h3>



The LORD [was ready] to save me: therefore we will sing my songs to the stringed instruments all
the days of (y) our life in the house of the LORD.



(y) He shows what is the use of the Congregation and Church, that is, to give the Lord thanks for
his benefits.
#BCV:Isaiah 38:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:21>Isaiah 38:21</verse></h3>



For Isaiah had said, Let them take a lump of figs, and (z) lay [it] for a plaster upon the boil, and he
shall recover.



(z) Read (<bcv=II Ki 20:7>Kg2 20:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 38:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 38:22>Isaiah 38:22</verse></h3>



Hezekiah also (a) had said, What [is] the sign that I shall go up to the house of the LORD?



(a) As in (<bcv=Isa 38:7>Isa 38:7</bcv>).

<h2>Isaiah 39</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 39:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 39:1>Isaiah 39:1</verse></h3>

<page=1747>At that time (a) Merodachbaladan, the son of Baladan, king of Babylon, sent (b) letters and a
present to Hezekiah: for he had heard that he had been sick, and had recovered.



(a) This was the first king of Babylon, who overcame the Assyrians in the tenth year of his reign.
#BCV:Isaiah 39:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 39:2>Isaiah 39:2</verse></h3>



And Hezekiah was (c) glad of them, and showed them the house of his precious things, the silver,
and the gold, and the spices, and the precious ointment, and all the house of his armour, and all that
was found in his treasuries: there was nothing in his house, nor in all his dominion, that Hezekiah
did not show them.



(c) Read (<bcv=II Ki 20:13>Kg2 20:13</bcv>; <bcv=2Ch 32:25>Ch2 32:25</bcv>, <bcv=2Ch 32:31>Ch2 32:31</bcv>).

#BCV:Isaiah 39:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 39:4>Isaiah 39:4</verse></h3>



Then said he, What have (d) they seen in thy house? And Hezekiah answered, All that [is] in my
house have they seen: there is nothing among my treasures that I have not showed them.



(d) He asks him of the particulars, to make him understand the craft of the wicked, which he before
being overcome with their flattery and blinded with ambition, could not see.
#BCV:Isaiah 39:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 39:6>Isaiah 39:6</verse></h3>



Behold, the days come, that all that [is] in thy house, and [that] which thy fathers have laid up in
store until this day, shall be (e) carried to Babylon: nothing shall be left, saith the LORD.



(e) By the grievousness of the punishment is declared how greatly God detested ambition and vain
glory.
#BCV:Isaiah 39:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 39:7>Isaiah 39:7</verse></h3>



And of thy sons that shall issue from thee, which thou shalt beget, shall they take away; and they
shall be (f) eunuchs in the palace of the king of Babylon.



(f) That is, officers and servants.
#BCV:Isaiah 39:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 39:8>Isaiah 39:8</verse></h3>


<page=1748>(g) Then said Hezekiah to Isaiah, Good [is] the word of the LORD which thou hast spoken. He said
moreover, For there shall be peace and truth in my days.



(g) Read (<bcv=II Ki 20:19>Kg2 20:19</bcv>).

<h2>Isaiah 40</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 40:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:1>Isaiah 40:1</verse></h3>

<page=1749>Comfort (a) ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God.



(a) This is a consolation for the Church, assuring them that they will never be destitute of prophets
by which he exhorts the true ministers of God that then were, and those also that would come after
him, to comfort the poor afflicted and to assure them of their deliverance both of body and soul.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:2>Isaiah 40:2</verse></h3>



Speak ye kindly to Jerusalem, and cry to her, that her (b) warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is
pardoned: for she hath received from the LORD'S hand (c) double for all her sins.



(b) The time of her affliction.



(c) Meaning, sufficient as in (<bcv=Isa 61:7>Isa 61:7</bcv>) and full correction, or double grace, while she deserved double
punishment.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:3>Isaiah 40:3</verse></h3>



The (d) voice of him that crieth in the (e) wilderness, (f) Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make
straight in the desert a highway for our God.



(d) That is, of the prophets.



(e) That is, in Babylonia and other places, where they were kept in captivity and misery.



(f) Meaning Cyrus and Darius who would deliver God's people out of captivity and make them a
ready way to Jerusalem.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:4>Isaiah 40:4</verse></h3>



Every valley shall be exalted, and every (g) mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked
shall be made straight, and the rough places plain:



(g) Whatever may prevent or hinder this deliverance will be removed.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:5>Isaiah 40:5</verse></h3>



And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all (h) flesh together shall see [it]: for the mouth
of the LORD hath spoken [it].



(h) This miracle will be so great, that it will be known through all the world.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:6>Isaiah 40:6</verse></h3>

<page=1750>The (i) voice said, Cry. And he said, What shall I cry? All flesh [is] grass, and all its (k) beauty [is] as
the flower of the field:



(i) The voice of God which spoke to the prophet Isaiah.



(k) Meaning, all man's wisdom and natural powers, (<bcv=Jam 1:10>Jam 1:10</bcv>; <bcv=1Pe 1:24>Pe1 1:24</bcv>).

#BCV:Isaiah 40:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:7>Isaiah 40:7</verse></h3>



The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: because the (l) breath of the LORD bloweth upon it: surely
the people [is] grass.



(l) The spirit of God will discover the vanity in all that seems to have any excellency of themselves.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:8>Isaiah 40:8</verse></h3>



The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the (m) word of our God shall stand for ever.



(m) Though considering the frailty of man's nature many of the Jews would perish, and so not be
partakers of this deliverance, yet God's promise would be fulfilled, and they who remained, would
feel the fruit of it.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:9>Isaiah 40:9</verse></h3>



O Zion, that bringest good tidings, go up upon the high (n) mountain; O Jerusalem, that bringest
good tidings, lift up thy voice with strength; lift [it] up, be not afraid; say to the cities of Judah,
Behold (o) your God!



(n) To publish this benefit through all the world.



(o) He shows in one word the perfection of all man's happiness, which is to have God's presence.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:10>Isaiah 40:10</verse></h3>



Behold, the Lord GOD will come with strong [hand], and (p) his arm shall rule for him: behold, his
reward [is] with him, and his work before him.



(p) His power will be sufficient without help of any other, and will have all means in himself to
bring his will to pass.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:11>Isaiah 40:11</verse></h3>

<page=1751>He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry [them] in
his bosom, [and] shall gently lead those that are with (q) young.



(q) He will show his care and favour over them who are weak and tender.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:12>Isaiah 40:12</verse></h3>



Who hath comprehended the waters in the hollow of his (r) hand, and measured heaven with the
span, and comprehended the dust of the earth in a measure, and weighed the mountains in scales,
and the hills in a balance?



(r) Declaring that as only God has all power, so does he use the same for the defence and
maintenance of his Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:13>Isaiah 40:13</verse></h3>



Who hath directed the Spirit of the LORD, or [being] (s) his counsellor hath taught him?



(s) He shows God's infinite wisdom for the same.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:17>Isaiah 40:17</verse></h3>



All nations before him [are] as (t) nothing; and they are counted to him less than nothing, and vanity.



(t) He speaks all this to the intent that they would neither fear man nor put their trust in any, save
only in God.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:18>Isaiah 40:18</verse></h3>



To whom then (u) will ye liken God? or what likeness will ye compare to him?



(u) By this he arms them against the idolatry with which they would be tempted in Babylon.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:20>Isaiah 40:20</verse></h3>



He that [is] so (x) impoverished that he hath no oblation chooseth a tree [that] will not rot; he
seeketh for himself a skilful workman to prepare a graven image, [that] shall not be moved.



(x) He shows the rage of the idolaters, seeing that the poor who do not have enough to meet their
own needs will defraud themselves to serve their idols.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:21>Isaiah 40:21</verse></h3>

<page=1752>Have ye not known? have ye not (y) heard? hath it not been told you from the beginning? have ye
not understood from the (z) foundations of the earth?



(y) Do you not have the word of God, which plainly condemns idolatry?



(z) Can you not learn by the visible creatures whom God has made for your use, that you should not
serve them or worship them?
#BCV:Isaiah 40:24
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:24>Isaiah 40:24</verse></h3>



Yea, they shall not be planted; yea, they shall not be sown: yea, their stock shall not take root in the
earth: and he shall also (a) blow upon them, and they shall wither, and the whirlwind shall take them
away as stubble.



(a) So that his power appears in every place we turn our eyes.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:26
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:26>Isaiah 40:26</verse></h3>



Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these [things], that bringeth (b) out their
host by number: he calleth them all by names by the greatness of his might, for that [he is] strong in
power; not one faileth.



(b) Who has set in order the infinite number of the stars.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:27
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:27>Isaiah 40:27</verse></h3>



Why sayest thou, O Jacob, and speakest, O Israel, (c) My way is hid from the LORD, and my
judgment is passed over by my God?



(c) He rebukes the Jews because they did not rest on the providence of God, but thought that he
had forsaken them in their troubles.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:28
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:28>Isaiah 40:28</verse></h3>



Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, [that] the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of
the (d) ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? [there is] no searching of his (e)
understanding.



(d) And therefore all power is in his hand to deliver when his time comes.



(e) Showing that men must patiently abide, and not curiously seek out the cause of God's delay in
our affliction.
#BCV:Isaiah 40:30
<h3><verse=Isaiah 40:30>Isaiah 40:30</verse></h3>


<page=1753>(f) Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:



(f) They who trust in their own virtue, and do not acknowledge that all comes from God.

<h2>Isaiah 41</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 41:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:1>Isaiah 41:1</verse></h3>

<page=1754>Keep (a) silence before me, O isles; and let the people (b) renew [their] strength: let them come near;
then let them speak: let us come near together to judgment.



(a) God as though he pleaded his cause with all nations requires silence, that he may be heard in his
right.



(b) That is, gather all their power and supports.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:2>Isaiah 41:2</verse></h3>



Who raised up the (c) righteous [man] from the east, called him to his foot, gave the nations before
him, and made [him] rule over kings? he gave [them] as the dust to his sword, [and] as driven stubble
to his bow.



(c) Who called Abraham (who was the pattern of God's justice in delivering his Church) from the
idolatry of the Chaldeans to go to and fro at his commandment and placed him in the land of
Canaan.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:4>Isaiah 41:4</verse></h3>



Who hath wrought and done [it], calling the (d) generations from the beginning? I the LORD, the (e)
first, and with the last; I [am] he.



(d) Who has created man and maintained his succession.



(e) Though the world set up many gods, yet they diminish nothing of my glory: for I am all one,
unchangeable, which have ever been and will be for ever.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:5>Isaiah 41:5</verse></h3>



The isles saw [it], and (f) feared; the ends of the earth were afraid, drew near, and (g) came.



(f) Considering my excellent works among my people.



(g) They assembled themselves and conspired against me to maintain their idolatry.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:6>Isaiah 41:6</verse></h3>



They helped every one his neighbour; and [every one] said to his brother, (h) Be of good courage.



(h) He notes the obstinacy of the idolaters to maintain their superstitions.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:8>Isaiah 41:8</verse></h3>

<page=1755>But thou, Israel, [art] my (i) servant, Jacob whom I have chosen, the seed of Abraham my friend.



(i) And therefore ought not to pollute yourself with the superstition of the Gentiles.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:10>Isaiah 41:10</verse></h3>



Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea,
I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the (k) right hand of my righteousness.



(k) That is, by the force of promise, in the performance of which I will show myself faithful and
just.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:12>Isaiah 41:12</verse></h3>



Thou shalt seek them, and shalt not (l) find them, [even] them that contended with thee: they that
war against thee shall be as nothing, and as a thing of naught.



(l) Because they will be destroyed.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:14>Isaiah 41:14</verse></h3>



Fear not, thou (m) worm Jacob, [and] ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith the LORD, and thy
redeemer, the Holy One of Israel.



(m) Thus he calls them because they were contemned of all the world, and that they considering
their own poor estate should seek him for help.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:15>Isaiah 41:15</verse></h3>



Behold, I will make thee a new sharp threshing instrument having teeth: thou shalt thresh the (n)
mountains, and beat [them] small, and shalt make the hills as chaff.



(n) I will make you able to destroy all your enemies no matter how mighty, and this chiefly is referred
to the kingdom of Christ.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:17>Isaiah 41:17</verse></h3>



[When] (o) the poor and needy seek water, and [there is] none, [and] their tongue faileth for thirst, I
the LORD will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them.



(o) That is, they who will be afflicted in the captivity of Babylon.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:18>Isaiah 41:18</verse></h3>

<page=1756>I will open rivers in high places, and fountains in the midst of the valleys: I will make the wilderness
a pool of water, and the dry (p) land springs of water.



(p) God would rather change the order of nature than that they should want anything, who cry to
him by true faith in their miseries: declaring to them by this that they will lack nothing by the way,
when they return from Babylon.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:20>Isaiah 41:20</verse></h3>



That they may see, and know, and consider, and understand together, that the hand of the LORD
hath done this, and the Holy One of Israel (q) hath created it.



(q) That is, has appointed and determined that it will come to pass.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:21>Isaiah 41:21</verse></h3>




(r) Produce your cause, saith the LORD; bring forth your strong [reasons], saith the King of Jacob.



(r) He bids the idolaters to prove their religion and to bring forth their idols, that they may be tried
whether they know all things, and can do all things, which if they cannot do, he concludes that they
are not gods, but vile idols.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:24
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:24>Isaiah 41:24</verse></h3>



Behold, ye [are] of nothing, and your work of naught: an abomination [is he that] (s) chooseth you.



(s) So that a man cannot make an idol, without doing that which God detests and abhors for he
chooses his own devises and forsakes the Lords.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:25
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:25>Isaiah 41:25</verse></h3>



I have raised up [one] from the north, (t) and he shall come: from the rising of the sun shall he (u)
call upon my name: and he shall come upon (x) princes as [upon] morter, and as the potter treadeth
clay.



(t) Meaning, the Chaldeans.



(u) That is, Cyrus, who will do all things in my name and by my direction: by which he means that
both their captivity and deliverance will be ordered by God's providence and appointment.



(x) Both of the Chaldeans and others.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:26
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:26>Isaiah 41:26</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 41:26
<h3><verse=isa 41:26>isa 41:26</verse></h3>



righteous? verily, [there is] none that sheweth, verily, [there is] none that declareth, verily, [there is]
none that heareth (y) your words.



(y) Meaning, that none of the Gentile gods can work any of these things.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:27
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:27>Isaiah 41:27</verse></h3>



The first [shall say] to Zion, Behold, behold (z) them: and I will give to Jerusalem (a) one that
bringeth good tidings.



(z) That is, the Israelites who return from the captivity.



(a) That is, a continual succession of prophets and ministers.
#BCV:Isaiah 41:28
<h3><verse=Isaiah 41:28>Isaiah 41:28</verse></h3>



For (b) I beheld, and [there was] no man; even among them, and [there was] no counsellor, that,
when I asked of them, could answer a word.



(b) When I looked whether the idols could do these things, I found that they had neither wisdom
nor power to do anything: therefore he concludes that all are wicked that trust in such vanities.

<h2>Isaiah 42</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 42:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 42:1>Isaiah 42:1</verse></h3>

<page=1758>Behold (a) my servant, (b) whom I uphold; my elect, [in whom] my soul (c) delighteth; I have put my
spirit upon him: he shall bring forth (d) judgment to the Gentiles.



(a) That is, Christ, who in respect to his manhood is called here servant. The prophets used to make
mention of Christ after they declared any great promise, because he is the foundation on which all
the promises are made and ratified.



(b) For I have committed all my power to him, as to a most faithful steward: some read, I will
establish him: that is, in his office by giving him the fulness of my Spirit.



(c) Only he is acceptable to me and they that come to me by him: for there is no other means of
reconciliation, (<bcv=Mat 12:18>Mat 12:18</bcv>;<bcv=Eph 4:1> Eph 4:1</bcv>)



(d) He will declare himself governor over the Gentiles and call them by his word, and rule them by
his Spirit.
#BCV:Isaiah 42:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 42:2>Isaiah 42:2</verse></h3>



He shall not (e) cry, nor lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street.



(e) His coming will not be with pomp and noise, as earthly princes.
#BCV:Isaiah 42:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 42:3>Isaiah 42:3</verse></h3>



A (f) bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking (g) flax shall he not quench: he shall bring
forth judgment to (h) truth.



(f) He will not hurt the weak and feeble, but support and comfort them.



(g) Meaning, the wick of a lamp or candle which is almost out, but he will cherish it and snuff it,
that it may shine brighter.



(h) Although he favours the weak, yet will he not spare the wicked, but will judge them according to
truth and equity.
#BCV:Isaiah 42:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 42:4>Isaiah 42:4</verse></h3>



He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he hath (i) set judgment in the earth: and the (k) isles shall
wait for his law.



(i) Till he has set all things in good order.



(k) The Gentiles will desire to receive his doctrine.
#BCV:Isaiah 42:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 42:6>Isaiah 42:6</verse></h3>

<page=1759>I the LORD have called thee in (l) righteousness, and will hold (m) thy hand, and will keep thee, and
give thee for a (n) covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;



(l) Meaning, to a lawful and just calling.



(m) To assist and guide you.



(n) As him, by whom the promise made to all nations in Abraham will be fulfilled.
#BCV:Isaiah 42:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 42:8>Isaiah 42:8</verse></h3>



I [am] the LORD: that [is] my name: and my (o) glory will I not give to another, neither my praise to
graven images.



(o) I will not permit my glory to be diminished: which I would do if I were not faithful.
#BCV:Isaiah 42:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 42:9>Isaiah 42:9</verse></h3>



Behold, the former things have (p) come to pass, and new things do I declare: before they spring
forth I tell you of them.



(p) As in time past I have been true in my promises, so will I be in time to come.
#BCV:Isaiah 42:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 42:11>Isaiah 42:11</verse></h3>



Let the wilderness and its cities lift up [their voice], the villages [that] (q) Kedar doth inhabit: let the
inhabitants of the rock sing, let them shout from the top of the mountains.



(q) Meaning, the Arabians, under whom he comprehends all the people of the East.
#BCV:Isaiah 42:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 42:13>Isaiah 42:13</verse></h3>



The LORD shall go forth as a (r) mighty man, he shall stir up jealousy like a man of war: he shall cry,
yea, roar; he shall prevail against his enemies.



(r) He shows the zeal of the Lord, and his power in the conservation of his Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 42:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 42:14>Isaiah 42:14</verse></h3>



I have long time held my peace; I have been still, [and] restrained myself: [now] will I cry like a (s)
travailing woman; I will destroy and devour at once.

<page=1760>(s) I will haste to execute my vengeance, which I have so long deferred as a woman that desires to be
delivered, when she is in labour.
#BCV:Isaiah 42:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 42:16>Isaiah 42:16</verse></h3>



And I will bring the (t) blind by a way [that] they knew not; I will lead them in paths [that] they have
not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I
do for them, and not forsake them.



(t) That is, my poor people, who are in perplexity and care.
#BCV:Isaiah 42:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 42:19>Isaiah 42:19</verse></h3>



Who [is] blind, but my (u) servant? or deaf, as my (x) messenger [that] I sent? who [is] blind as [he
that is] (y) perfect, and blind as the LORD'S servant?



(u) That is, Israel, which would have most light because of my Law.



(x) The priest to whom my word is committed, who would not only hear it himself but cause others
to hear it.



(y) As the priests and prophets that would be lights to others?
#BCV:Isaiah 42:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 42:22>Isaiah 42:22</verse></h3>



But this [is] a people (z) robbed and plundered; [they are] all of them snared in holes, and they are
hid in prison houses: they are for a prey, and none delivereth; for a spoil, and none saith, (a) Restore.



(z) Because they will not acknowledge this blessing from the Lord, who is ready to deliver them, he
permits them to be spoiled by their enemies through their own fault and incredulity.



(a) There will be no one to comfort them , or to will the enemy to restore that which he has spoiled.
#BCV:Isaiah 42:23
<h3><verse=Isaiah 42:23>Isaiah 42:23</verse></h3>



Who among you will give ear to this? [who] will hearken and hear for (b) the time to come?



(b) Meaning, God's wrath.

<h2>Isaiah 43</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 43:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:1>Isaiah 43:1</verse></h3>

<page=1761>But now thus saith the LORD (a) that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, (b)
Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called [thee] by thy name; thou [art] mine.



(a) After these threatenings he promises deliverance to his Church, because he has regenerated them,
adopted them, and called them.



(b) When you see dangers and conspiracies on all sides, remember this benefit and the love of your
God, and it will encourage you.
#BCV:Isaiah 43:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:2>Isaiah 43:2</verse></h3>



When thou passest through the (c) waters, I [will be] with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not
overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame
kindle upon thee.



(c) By water and fire he means all kinds of trouble and peril.
#BCV:Isaiah 43:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:3>Isaiah 43:3</verse></h3>



For I [am] the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: I gave (d) Egypt [for] thy
ransom, Cush and Seba for thee.



(d) I turned Sennacherib's power against these countries, and made them suffer the affliction which
you would have done, and so were as the payment of our ransom, (<bcv=Isa 37:9>Isa 37:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 43:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:4>Isaiah 43:4</verse></h3>



Since thou hast been precious in my sight, thou hast been honourable, and I have loved thee:
therefore will I give (e) men for thee, and people for thy life.



(e) I will not spare any man, rather than you should perish, for God values one of his faithful more
than all the wicked in the world.
#BCV:Isaiah 43:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:5>Isaiah 43:5</verse></h3>



Fear not: for I [am] with thee: I will bring thy seed from the (f) east, and gather thee from the west;



(f) He prophecies of their deliverance from the captivity of Babylon, and so of the calling of the
universal Church, alluding to that which is written in (<bcv=Deu 30:3>Deu 30:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 43:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:7>Isaiah 43:7</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 43:7
<h3><verse=isa 43:7>isa 43:7</verse></h3>



him; verily, I have made him.



(g) Meaning that he could not be unmindful of them, unless he would neglect his own Name and
glory.
#BCV:Isaiah 43:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:9>Isaiah 43:9</verse></h3>



Let all the nations be gathered (h) together, and let the people be assembled: who among them can
declare this, and show us former things? let them bring forth their (i) witnesses, that they may be
justified: or let them (k) hear, and say, [It is] truth.



(h) Signifying that no power can resist him in doing this miraculous work, nor are all their idols able
to do the same, as in (<bcv=Isa 41:22>Isa 41:22</bcv>).



(i) To prove that the things which are spoken of them are true.



(k) Showing that the malice of the wicked hinders them in the knowledge of the truth, because they
will not hear when God speaks by his word.
#BCV:Isaiah 43:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:10>Isaiah 43:10</verse></h3>



Ye (l) [are] my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my (m) servant whom I have chosen: that ye may
know and believe me, and understand that I [am] he: before me there was no god formed, neither
shall there be after me.



(l) The prophets and people to whom I have given my law.



(m) Meaning especially Christ, and by him all the faithful.
#BCV:Isaiah 43:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:14>Isaiah 43:14</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, your redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; For your sake I have sent to Babylon,
and have (n) brought down all their nobles, and the Chaldeans, whose cry [is] in (o) the ships.



(n) By Darius and Cyrus.



(o) They will cry when they would escape by my water, seeing that the course of the Euphrates is
turned another way by the enemy.
#BCV:Isaiah 43:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:16>Isaiah 43:16</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, who maketh a way in (p) the sea, and a path in the mighty (q) waters;



(p) When he delivered Israel from Pharaoh, (<bcv=Exo 14:22>Exo 14:22</bcv>).

<page=1763>(q) When the Israelites passed through Jordan, (Jos 3:17).
#BCV:Isaiah 43:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:17>Isaiah 43:17</verse></h3>



Who bringeth (r) forth the (s) chariot and horse, the army and the power; they shall lie down
together, they shall not rise: they are extinct, they are quenched as a wick.



(r) When he delivered his people out of Egypt.



(s) Pharaoh and his mighty army.
#BCV:Isaiah 43:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:19>Isaiah 43:19</verse></h3>



Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way
in the (t) wilderness, [and] rivers in the desert.



(t) Meaning, that their deliverance out of Babylon would be more famous than that from Egypt was,


(<bcv=Jer 23:7>Jer 23:7</bcv>;<bcv=Hag 2:10> Hag 2:10</bcv>; <bcv=2Co 5:17>Co2 5:17</bcv>; <bcv=Rev 21:5>Rev 21:5</bcv>, <bcv=Rev 21:7>Rev 21:7</bcv>).

#BCV:Isaiah 43:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:20>Isaiah 43:20</verse></h3>



The (u) beast of the field shall honour me, the dragons and the owls: because I give waters in the
wilderness, [and] rivers in the desert, to give drink to my people, my chosen.



(u) They will have such abundance of all things as they return home, even in the dry and barren
places, that the very beasts will feel my blessings and will acknowledge them: much more men ought
to be thankful for the same.
#BCV:Isaiah 43:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:22>Isaiah 43:22</verse></h3>



But thou hast not (x) called upon me, O Jacob; but thou hast been (y) weary of me, O Israel.



(x) You have not worshipped me as you ought to have done.



(y) Because you have not willingly received that which I commanded you, you grieved me. By which
he shows that his mercies were the only reason for their deliverance, as they had deserved the
contrary.
#BCV:Isaiah 43:23
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:23>Isaiah 43:23</verse></h3>



Thou (z) hast not brought me the small cattle of thy burnt offerings; neither hast thou honoured me
with thy sacrifices. I have not caused thee to serve with an offering, nor wearied thee with incense.



(z) Meaning, in true faith and obedience.
#BCV:Isaiah 43:24
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:24>Isaiah 43:24</verse></h3>

<page=1764>Thou hast bought me no sweet (a) cane with money, neither hast thou filled me with the fat of thy
sacrifices: but thou hast (b) burdened me with thy sins, thou hast wearied me with thy iniquities.



(a) Either for the composition of the sweet ointment (<bcv=Exo 30:34>Exo 30:34</bcv>), or for the sweet incense (<bcv=Exo 30:7>Exo 30:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 43:26
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:26>Isaiah 43:26</verse></h3>



Put me in (c) remembrance: let us plead together: declare thou, that thou mayest be justified.



(c) If I forget anything that may make for your justification, put me in remembrance and speak for
yourself.
#BCV:Isaiah 43:27
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:27>Isaiah 43:27</verse></h3>



Thy (d) first father hath sinned, and thy (e) teachers have transgressed against me.



(d) Your ancestors.



(e) Your priests and your prophets.
#BCV:Isaiah 43:28
<h3><verse=Isaiah 43:28>Isaiah 43:28</verse></h3>



Therefore I have (f) profaned the princes of the sanctuary, and have given Jacob to the curse, and
Israel to reproaches.



(f) That is, rejected, abhorred, and destroyed them in the wilderness and at other times.

<h2>Isaiah 44</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 44:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:2>Isaiah 44:2</verse></h3>

<page=1765>Thus saith the LORD that made thee, and formed (a) thee from the womb, [who] will help thee;
Fear not, O Jacob, my servant; and thou, Jesurun, (b) whom I have chosen.



(a) He treated and chose you from the beginning of his own mercy, and before you could merit
anything.



(b) Whom God accepts as righteous: or who had opportunity to it because of the law, and your holy
calling.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:3>Isaiah 44:3</verse></h3>



For I will pour water upon him that is (c) thirsty, and floods upon the dry ground: I will pour my
spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thy offspring:



(c) Because man of himself is as the dry and barren land, he promises to moisten him with the
waters of his Holy Spirit, (<bcv=Joel 2:28>Joe 2:28</bcv>;<bcv=John 7:38> Joh 7:38</bcv>;<bcv=Acts 2:17> Act 2:17</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 44:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:4>Isaiah 44:4</verse></h3>



And they (d) shall spring up [as] among the grass, as willows by the water courses.



(d) That is, your children and posterity will increase wonderfully after their deliverance from Babylon.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:5>Isaiah 44:5</verse></h3>



One shall say, I [am] the LORD'S; and another (e) shall call [himself] by the name of Jacob; and
another shall write [with] his hand to the LORD, and surname [himself] by the name of Israel.



(e) By this diversity of speech he means one thing, that is, that the people will be holy, and receive
the true religion from God, as in (<bcv=Psa 87:5>Psa 87:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 44:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:6>Isaiah 44:6</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; (f) I [am] the first,
and I [am] the last; and besides me [there is] no God.



(f) I am always like myself, that is, merciful toward my Church, and most able to maintain it, as in



(<bcv=Isa 41:4>Isa 41:4</bcv>,<bcv=Isa 48:12> Isa 48:12</bcv>;<bcv=Rev 1:17> Rev 1:17</bcv>,<bcv=Rev 22:13> Rev 22:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 44:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:7>Isaiah 44:7</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 44:7
<h3><verse=isa 44:7>isa 44:7</verse></h3>



ancient people? and the things that are coming, and shall come, let (k) them show to them.



(g) And appoint them that will deliver the Church.



(h) That is, tell me how I should proceed in this.



(i) God calls the Israelites ancient, because he preferred them to all others in his eternal election.



(k) Meaning, their idols.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:8>Isaiah 44:8</verse></h3>



Fear ye not, neither be afraid: have not I told thee from that time, and have declared [it]? (l) ye [are]
even my witnesses. Is there a God besides me? verily, [there is] no God; I know not [any].



(l) Read (<bcv=Isa 43:10>Isa 43:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 44:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:9>Isaiah 44:9</verse></h3>



They that make a graven image [are] all of them vanity; and (m) their delectable things shall not
profit; and they [are] their own witnesses; (n) they see not, nor know; that they may be ashamed.



(m) Whatever they bestow on their idols, to make them seem glorious.



(n) That is, the idolaters seeing that their idols are blind, are witnesses of their own blindness, and
feeling that they are not able to help them, must confess that they have no power.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:10>Isaiah 44:10</verse></h3>



Who hath formed a (o) god, or cast a graven image [that] is (p) profitable for nothing?



(o) Meaning that whatever is made by the hand of man, if it is valued as a god, is most detestable.



(p) By which appears their blasphemy, who call images the books of the laity, seeing that they are
not only here called unprofitable, but in (<bcv=Isa 41:24>Isa 41:24</bcv>) abominable. Jeremiah calls them the work of
errors, (<bcv=Jer 10:15>Jer 10:15</bcv>), Habakkuk, a lying teacher (<bcv=Hab 2:18>Hab 2:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 44:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:11>Isaiah 44:11</verse></h3>



Behold, all his (q) fellows shall be ashamed: and the workmen, they [are] of men: let them all be
gathered together, let them (r) stand up; [yet] they shall fear, [and] they shall be ashamed together.



(q) That is, who in any way consent either to the making or worshipping.

<page=1767>(r) Signifying, that the multitude will not then save the idolaters, when God will take vengeance,
although they excuse themselves by it among men.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:12>Isaiah 44:12</verse></h3>



The smith with the tongs both worketh in the coals, and fashioneth it with hammers, and worketh it
with the strength of his arms: yea, he is (s) hungry, and his strength faileth: he drinketh no water,
and is faint.



(s) He describes the raging affection of the idolaters, who forget their own necessities to set forth
their devotion toward their idols.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:13>Isaiah 44:13</verse></h3>



The carpenter stretcheth out [his] rule; he marketh it out with a line; he fitteth it with planes, and he
marketh it out with the compass, and maketh it after the figure of a man, according to the beauty of
a man; that it may remain in (t) the house.



(t) To place it in some Temple.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:15>Isaiah 44:15</verse></h3>



Then shall it be for a man to burn: for he will take of it, and (u) warm himself; indeed, he kindleth
[it], and baketh bread; yea, he maketh a god, and worshippeth [it]; he maketh it a graven image, and
falleth down to it.



(u) He sets forth the obstinacy and malice of the idolaters who though they see by daily experience
that their idols are no better than the rest of the matter of which they are made, yet they refuse the
one part, and make a god of the other, as the papists make their cake god, and the rest of their idols.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:16>Isaiah 44:16</verse></h3>



He burneth part of it in the fire; with part of it he (x) eateth flesh; he roasteth meat, and is satisfied:
yea, he warmeth [himself], and saith, Aha, I am warm, I have seen the fire:



(x) That is, he either makes a table or trenchers.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:18>Isaiah 44:18</verse></h3>



They have not known nor understood: (y) for he hath shut their eyes, that they cannot see; [and]
their hearts, that they cannot understand.

<page=1768>(y) The prophet gives here an answer to all them who wonder how it is possible that any would be so
blind as to commit such abomination, saying that God has blinded their eyes, and hardened their
hearts.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:20>Isaiah 44:20</verse></h3>



He feedeth (z) on ashes: a deceived heart hath turned him aside, that he cannot deliver his soul, nor
say, [Is there] not a lie in my right hand?



(z) He is abused as one that would eat ashes, thinking to satisfy his hunger.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:21>Isaiah 44:21</verse></h3>




(a) Remember these, O Jacob and Israel; for thou [art] my servant: I have formed thee; thou [art] my
servant: O Israel, thou shalt not be forgotten by me.



(a) Showing that man's heart is most inclined to idolatry, and therefore he warns his people by these
examples, that they should not cleave to any but to the living God, when they should be among the
idolaters.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:23
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:23>Isaiah 44:23</verse></h3>




(b) Sing, O ye heavens; for the LORD hath done [it]: shout, ye lower parts of the earth: break forth
into singing, ye mountains, O forest, and every tree in it: for the LORD hath redeemed Jacob, and
glorified himself in Israel.



(b) He shows that the work of the Lord toward his people will be so great, that the insensible
creatures will be moved with it.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:25
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:25>Isaiah 44:25</verse></h3>



That frustrateth the (c) tokens of the liars, and maketh diviners mad; that turneth wise [men]
backward, and maketh their knowledge foolish;



(c) He arms them against the soothsayers of Babylon, who would have said that they knew by the
stars that God would not deliver Israel, and that Babylon would stand.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:26
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:26>Isaiah 44:26</verse></h3>



That confirmeth the word of his (d) servant, and performeth the counsel of his messengers; that
saith to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be inhabited; and to the cities of Judah, Ye shall be built, and I will
raise up her decayed places:



(d) Of Isaiah and the rest of his prophets, who assured the Church of God's favour and deliverance.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:27
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:27>Isaiah 44:27</verse></h3>

<page=1769>That saith to the (e) deep, Be dry, and I will dry up thy rivers:



(e) He shows that God's work would be no less notable in this their deliverance, than when he
brought them out of Egypt, through the sea.
#BCV:Isaiah 44:28
<h3><verse=Isaiah 44:28>Isaiah 44:28</verse></h3>



That saith of (f) Cyrus, [He is] my shepherd, and he shall perform all my pleasure: even saying to
Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built; and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid.



(f) To assure them of their deliverance he names the person by whom it would be, more than a
hundred years before he was born.

<h2>Isaiah 45</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 45:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:1>Isaiah 45:1</verse></h3>

<page=1770>Thus saith the LORD to his anointed, to (a) Cyrus, whose (b) right hand I have held, to (c) subdue
nations before him; and I will loose the loins of kings, to open before him the two leaved gates; and
the gates shall not be shut;



(a) To assure the Jews of their deliverance against the great temptations that they would abide, he
names the person and the means.



(b) Because Cyrus would execute the office of a deliverer, God called him his anointed for a time,
but after another sort than he called David.



(c) To guide him in the deliverance of my people.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:2>Isaiah 45:2</verse></h3>



I will go before thee, and make the (d) crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of
brass, and cut asunder the bars of iron:



(d) I will take away all impediments and hindrances.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:3>Isaiah 45:3</verse></h3>



And I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest (e)
know that I, the LORD, who call [thee] by thy name, [am] the God of Israel.



(e) Not that Cyrus knew God to worship him correctly, but he had a certain particular knowledge as
profane men may have of his power, and so was compelled to deliver God's people.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:4>Isaiah 45:4</verse></h3>



For Jacob my servant's (f) sake, and Israel my elect, I have even called thee by thy name: I have
surnamed thee, though thou hast not known me.



(f) Not for anything that is in you, or for your worthiness.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:5>Isaiah 45:5</verse></h3>



I [am] the LORD, and [there is] none else, [there is] no God besides me: I (g) girded thee, though
thou hast not known me:



(g) I have given you strength, power and authority.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:7>Isaiah 45:7</verse></h3>

<page=1771>I form the (h) light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the LORD do all these
[things].



(h) I send peace and war, prosperity and adversity, as in (<bcv=Amos 3:6>Amo 3:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 45:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:8>Isaiah 45:8</verse></h3>



Drop down, ye heavens, from above, and let the skies pour down (i) righteousness: let the earth
open, and let them bring forth salvation, and let righteousness spring up together; I the LORD have



(k) created it.



(i) He comforts the Jews as if he would say, "Though when you look to the heavens and earth for
comfort you see nothing now but signs of God's wrath, yet will cause them to bring forth certain
tokens of your deliverance, and of the performance of my promise": which is meant by
righteousness.



(k) I have appointed Cyrus to this use and purpose.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:9>Isaiah 45:9</verse></h3>




(l) Woe to him that contendeth with his Maker! [Let] the potsherd [contend] with the potsherds of
the earth. Shall the clay say to him that fashioneth it, What makest thou? or thy work, (m) He hath
no hands?



(l) By this he bridles their impatience, who in adversity and trouble murmur against God, and will
not tarry his pleasure: willing that man would match with his like, and not contend against God.



(m) That is, it is not perfectly made.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:11>Isaiah 45:11</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, and his Maker, Ask me (n) of things to come
concerning my sons, and concerning the work of my hands command ye me.



(n) Instead of murmuring, humble yourselves and ask what you will for the consolation of my
children, and you will be sure of it as you are of these things which are at your command. Some
read it with an interrogation, and make it the application of the comparison.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:12>Isaiah 45:12</verse></h3>



I have made the earth, and created man upon it: I, [even] my hands, have stretched out the heavens,
and all their (o) host have I commanded.

<page=1772>(o) That is, the stars.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:13>Isaiah 45:13</verse></h3>



I have raised (p) him up in righteousness, and I will direct all his ways: he shall build my city, and he
shall let go my captives, not for (q) price nor reward, saith the LORD of hosts.



(p) That is, Cyrus, that I may show by him the faithfulness of my promise in delivering my people.



(q) Meaning, freely and without ransom, or any grievous condition.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:14>Isaiah 45:14</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, The labour (r) of Egypt, and merchandise of Cush and of the Sabeans, men
of stature, shall come over to thee, and they shall be (s) thine: they shall come after thee; in chains
they shall come over, and they shall fall down to thee, they shall make supplication to thee, [saying],
Surely God [is] in thee; and [there is] none else, [there is] no God.



(r) These people were tributaries to the Persians, and so king Artahshashte gave this money toward
the building of the temple, (<bcv=Ezra 7:27>Ezr 7:27</bcv>).



(s) While they were your enemies, they will now honour you and you will rule them: which was
accomplished in the time of Christ.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:15>Isaiah 45:15</verse></h3>



Verily thou [art] a God that (t) hidest thyself, O God of Israel, the Saviour.



(t) By this he exhorts the Jews to patience, though their deliverance is deferred for a time: showing
that they would not repent their long patience, but the wicked and idolaters will be destroyed.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:18>Isaiah 45:18</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it;
he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be (u) inhabited: I [am] the LORD;
and [there is] none else.



(u) That is, of men, but chiefly of his Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:19>Isaiah 45:19</verse></h3>



I have not spoken in secret, (x) in a dark place of the earth: I have not said to the seed of Jacob,
Seek ye me in vain: I the LORD speak righteousness, I declare things that are right.



(x) As do the false gods, who give uncertain answers.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:20>Isaiah 45:20</verse></h3>

<page=1773>Assemble yourselves and come; draw near together, (y) ye [that have] escaped of the nations: they
have no knowledge that set up the wood of their graven image, and pray to a god [that] cannot save.



(y) All you idolaters who though you seem to have worldly dignity yet in God's sight you are vile and
abject.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:22>Isaiah 45:22</verse></h3>



Look to me, and be ye saved, all (z) the ends of the earth: for I [am] God, and [there is] none else.



(z) He calls the idolaters to repentance, willing them to look on him with the eye of faith.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:23
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:23>Isaiah 45:23</verse></h3>



I have sworn by myself, the word is gone out of my mouth [in] (a) righteousness, and shall not
return, That to me every (b) knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear.



(a) That is, that the thing which I have promise will be faithfully performed.



(b) The knowledge of God and the true worshipping will be through all the world, (<bcv=Rom 14:11>Rom 14:11</bcv>; Phi
2:10) by which he signifies that we must not only serve God in heart, but declare the same also by
outward profession.
#BCV:Isaiah 45:24
<h3><verse=Isaiah 45:24>Isaiah 45:24</verse></h3>



Surely, (c) shall [one] say, in the LORD have I righteousness and strength: [even] to him shall [men]
come; and all that are (d) incensed against him shall be ashamed.



(c) Meaning the faithful will feel and confess this.



(d) All the contemners of God.

<h2>Isaiah 46</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 46:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 46:1>Isaiah 46:1</verse></h3>

<page=1774>Bel boweth down, (a) Nebo stoopeth, their idols were upon the (b) beasts, and upon the cattle: your
carriages [were] heavily loaded; [they were] a burden to the weary [beast].



(a) These were the chief idols of Babylon.



(b) Because they were of gold and silver, the Medes and Persians carried them away.
#BCV:Isaiah 46:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 46:2>Isaiah 46:2</verse></h3>




(c) They stoop, they bow down together; they could not deliver the burden, but (d) themselves have
gone into captivity.



(c) The beasts that carried the idols fell down under their burden.



(d) He derides the idols, who had neither soul nor sense.
#BCV:Isaiah 46:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 46:3>Isaiah 46:3</verse></h3>



Hearken to me, O house of Jacob, and all the remnant of the house of Israel, which are (e) borne
[by me] from the birth, which are carried from the womb:



(e) He shows the difference between the idols and the true God; for they must be carried by others,
but God himself carries his, as in (<bcv=Deu 32:11>Deu 32:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 46:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 46:4>Isaiah 46:4</verse></h3>



And [even] to [your] old age I [am] he; and [even] to gray hairs will I carry [you]: (f) have made, and I
will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver [you].



(f) Seeing I have begotten you, I will nourish and preserve you forever.
#BCV:Isaiah 46:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 46:5>Isaiah 46:5</verse></h3>



To whom will ye liken me, and make [me] equal, and (g) compare me, that we may be like?



(g) The people of God setting their own calamity, and the flourishing estate of the Babylonians,
would be tempted to think that their God was not so mighty as the idols of their enemies: therefore
he describes the original of all the idols to make them to be abhorred by all men: showing that the
most that can be spoken in their commendation, is but to prove them vile.
#BCV:Isaiah 46:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 46:8>Isaiah 46:8</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 46:8
<h3><verse=isa 46:8>isa 46:8</verse></h3>




(h) Become wise, meaning, that all idolaters are without wit or sense, like mad men.
#BCV:Isaiah 46:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 46:11>Isaiah 46:11</verse></h3>



Calling a ravenous (i) bird from the east, the man that executeth my (k) counsel from a far country:
yea, I have spoken [it], I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed [it], I will also perform it.



(i) That is, Cyrus, who will come as swift as a bird and fight against Babylon.



(k) Him by whom I have appointed to execute that which I have determined.
#BCV:Isaiah 46:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 46:12>Isaiah 46:12</verse></h3>



Hearken to me, ye stubborn in heart, that [are] far from (l) righteousness:



(l) Who by your incredulity would prevent the performance of my promise.
#BCV:Isaiah 46:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 46:13>Isaiah 46:13</verse></h3>



I bring (m) near my righteousness; it shall not be far off, and my salvation shall not delay: and I will
place salvation in Zion for Israel my glory.



(m) He shows that man's incredulity cannot abolish the promise of God, (<bcv=Rom 3:3>Rom 3:3</bcv>).

<h2>Isaiah 47</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 47:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 47:1>Isaiah 47:1</verse></h3>

<page=1776>Come down, and sit in the dust, O (a) virgin daughter of Babylon, sit on the ground: [there is] no (b)
throne, O daughter of the Chaldeans: for thou shalt no more be called tender and delicate.



(a) Which has lived in wealth and wantonness and has not yet been overcome by any enemies.



(b) Your government will be taken from you.
#BCV:Isaiah 47:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 47:2>Isaiah 47:2</verse></h3>



Take the millstones, and (c) grind meal: uncover thy locks, (d) make bare the leg, uncover the thigh,
pass over the rivers.



(c) You will be brought to most vile servitude: for to turn the mill was the office of slaves.



(d) The things in which she sets her greatest pride, will be made vile, even from the head to the foot.
#BCV:Isaiah 47:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 47:3>Isaiah 47:3</verse></h3>



Thy nakedness shall be uncovered, yea, thy shame shall be seen: I will take vengeance, and I will not
meet [thee as] a (e) man.



(e) I will use no humanity nor pity toward you.
#BCV:Isaiah 47:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 47:4>Isaiah 47:4</verse></h3>




(f) [As for] our redeemer, the LORD of hosts [is] his name, the Holy One of Israel.



(f) The Israelites will confess that the Lord does this for his Church's sake.
#BCV:Isaiah 47:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 47:5>Isaiah 47:5</verse></h3>




(g) Sit thou silent, and get thee into darkness, O daughter of the Chaldeans: for thou shalt no more
be called, The lady of kingdoms.



(g) For shame, and hide yourself.
#BCV:Isaiah 47:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 47:6>Isaiah 47:6</verse></h3>



I was angry with my people, I have polluted my inheritance, and given them into thy hand: thou
didst show them no (h) mercy; upon the ancient hast thou very heavily laid thy yoke.

<page=1777>(h) They abused God's judgments, thinking that he punished the Israelites, because he would
completely cast them off, and therefore instead of pitying their misery, you increased it.
#BCV:Isaiah 47:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 47:9>Isaiah 47:9</verse></h3>



But these two [things] shall come to thee in a moment in one day, the loss of children, and
widowhood: they shall come upon thee in their (i) perfection for the multitude of thy sorceries, [and]
for the great abundance of thy enchantments.



(i) So that your punishment will be so great, as is possible to be imagined.
#BCV:Isaiah 47:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 47:10>Isaiah 47:10</verse></h3>



For thou hast trusted in thy wickedness: thou hast said, None seeth me. Thy (k) wisdom and thy
knowledge, it hath perverted thee; and thou hast said in thy heart, I [am], and none else besides me.



(k) You thought that your own wisdom and policy would have saved you.
#BCV:Isaiah 47:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 47:12>Isaiah 47:12</verse></h3>



Stand now with thy enchantments, and with the multitude of thy sorceries, in which thou hast (l)
laboured from thy youth; if thou shalt be able to profit, if thou mayest prevail.



(l) He derides their vain confidence, who put their trust in anything but in God, condemning also
such vain sciences, which serve no use, but to delude the people, and to bring them from depending
only on God.
#BCV:Isaiah 47:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 47:14>Isaiah 47:14</verse></h3>



Behold, they shall be as stubble; the fire shall burn them; they shall not deliver themselves from the
power of the flame: [there shall] not [be] a coal (m) to warm at, [nor] fire to sit before it.



(m) They will utterly perish, and no part of them remain.
#BCV:Isaiah 47:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 47:15>Isaiah 47:15</verse></h3>



Thus shall they be to thee with whom thou hast laboured, [even] thy merchants, from thy youth:
they shall wander every one to his (n) quarter; none shall save thee.



(n) They will flee everyone to that place, which he thought by his speculations to be most sure: but
that will deceive them.

<h2>Isaiah 48</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 48:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:1>Isaiah 48:1</verse></h3>

<page=1778>Hear ye this, O house of Jacob, who are (a) called by the name of Israel, and have come forth out
of (b) the waters of Judah, who swear by the name of the LORD, and make mention of the God of
Israel, [but] not in truth, nor in righteousness.



(a) He detects their hypocrisy who claimed to be Israelites, but were not so.



(b) Meaning, the fountain and stock.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:2>Isaiah 48:2</verse></h3>



For they call themselves of the holy city, and stay themselves (c) upon the God of Israel; The
LORD of hosts [is] his name.



(c) They make a show, as though they would have no other God.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:3>Isaiah 48:3</verse></h3>



I have declared the former things from the beginning; and they went forth from my mouth, and I
showed (d) them; I did [them] suddenly, and they came to pass.



(d) He shows that they could not accuse him in anything, as he had performed whatever he had
promised.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:4>Isaiah 48:4</verse></h3>



Because I knew that (e) thou [art] obstinate, and thy neck [is] an iron sinew, and thy brow brass;



(e) I have done for you more than I promised, that your stubbornness and impudency might have
been overcome.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:5>Isaiah 48:5</verse></h3>



I have even from the beginning declared [it] to thee; before it came to pass I showed (f) [it] thee: lest
thou shouldest say, My idol hath done them, and my graven image, and my molten image, hath
commanded them.



(f) How you should be delivered out of Babylon.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:6>Isaiah 48:6</verse></h3>

<page=1779>Thou hast heard, see all this; and will not ye (g) declare [it]? I have showed ye new things from this
time, even hidden things, and thou didst not know them.



(g) Will you not acknowledge my blessing, and declare it to others?
#BCV:Isaiah 48:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:7>Isaiah 48:7</verse></h3>



They are created now, and not from the beginning; even before the day when thou heardest them
not; lest thou shouldest say, Behold, I (h) knew them.



(h) Showing that man's arrogancy is the reason God does not declare all things at once, lest they
should attribute this knowledge to their own wisdom.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:8>Isaiah 48:8</verse></h3>



Yea, thou heardest not; yea, thou knewest not; yea, from that time [that] thy ear was not opened: for
I knew that thou wouldest deal very treacherously, and wast called a transgressor from the (i) womb.



(i) From the time that I brought you of Egypt: for that deliverance was as the birth of the Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:9>Isaiah 48:9</verse></h3>



For my name's sake will I defer my anger, and for my praise will I refrain for thee, (k) that I cut thee
not off.



(k) As it was my free mercy that I chose you: so it is my free mercy that must save you.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:10>Isaiah 48:10</verse></h3>



Behold, I have refined thee, but (l) not with silver; I have (m) chosen thee in the furnace of affliction.



(l) For I had respect to your weakness and infirmity: for in silver there is some pureness, but in us
there is nothing but dross.



(m) I took you out of the furnace where you would have been consumed.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:11>Isaiah 48:11</verse></h3>



For my own sake, [even] for my own sake, will I do [it]: for how should [my name] (n) be profaned?



(o) and I will not give my glory to another.



(n) God joins the salvation of his with his own honour: so that they cannot perish, but his glory
would be diminished, as in (<bcv=Deu 32:27>Deu 32:27</bcv>).



(o) Read (<bcv=Isa 42:8>Isa 42:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 48:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:12>Isaiah 48:12</verse></h3>

<page=1780>Hearken to me, O Jacob and Israel, my called; (p) I [am] he; I [am] the first, I also [am] the last.



(p) Read (<bcv=Isa 41:4>Isa 41:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 48:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:13>Isaiah 48:13</verse></h3>



My hand also hath laid the foundation of the earth, and my right hand hath spread out the heavens:
[when] I call to them, (q) they stand up together.



(q) To obey me, and to do whatever I command them.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:14>Isaiah 48:14</verse></h3>



All ye, assemble yourselves, and hear; who among them hath declared these [things]? The LORD
hath loved (r) him: he will do his pleasure on Babylon, and his arm [shall be on] the Chaldeans.



(r) Meaning, Cyrus, whom he had chosen to destroy Babylon.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:16>Isaiah 48:16</verse></h3>



Come ye near to me, hear ye this; I have not spoken in secret from the (s) beginning; from the time
that it was, there [am] I: and now the Lord GOD, and his Spirit, hath (t) sent me.



(s) Since the time that I declared myself to your fathers.



(t) Thus the Prophet speaks for himself, and to assure them of these things.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:17>Isaiah 48:17</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I [am] the LORD thy God who
teacheth thee (u) to profit, who leadeth thee by the way [that] thou shouldest go.



(u) What things will do you good.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:19>Isaiah 48:19</verse></h3>



Thy seed also had been as the sand, and the offspring of thy body like its gravel; his (x) name should
not have been cut off nor destroyed from before me.



(x) That is, the prosperous estate of Israel.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:20>Isaiah 48:20</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 48:20
<h3><verse=isa 48:20>isa 48:20</verse></h3>



utter it [even] to the end of the earth; say ye, The LORD hath redeemed his servant Jacob.



(y) After he had forewarned them of their captivity and of the reason for it, he shows them the
great joy that will come of their deliverance.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:21>Isaiah 48:21</verse></h3>



And they (z) thirsted not [when] he led them through the deserts: he caused the waters to flow out
of the rock for them: he broke the rock also, and the waters gushed out.



(z) He shows that it will be as easy to deliver them, as he did their fathers out of Egypt.
#BCV:Isaiah 48:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 48:22>Isaiah 48:22</verse></h3>



[There is] no (a) peace, saith the LORD, to the wicked.



(a) Thus he speaks that the wicked hypocrites should not abuse God's promise, in whom was neither
faith nor repentance, as in (<bcv=Isa 57:21>Isa 57:21</bcv>)

<h2>Isaiah 49</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 49:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:1>Isaiah 49:1</verse></h3>

<page=1782>Listen, to me O isles; and hearken, ye people, from far; The LORD hath called (a) me from (b) the
womb; from the body of my mother hath he made mention of my name.



(a) This is spoken in the person of Christ, to assure the faithful that these promises should come to
pass: for they were all made in him and in him would be performed.



(b) This is meant of the time that Christ would be manifested to the world, as in (<bcv=Psa 2:7>Psa 2:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 49:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:2>Isaiah 49:2</verse></h3>



And he hath made my mouth like a sharp (c) sword; in the shadow of his hand hath he (d) hid me,
and made me a polished shaft; in his quiver hath he hid me;



(c) By the sword and shaft, he signifies the virtue and efficacy of Christ's doctrine.



(d) God has taken me to his protection and defence: this chiefly is meant of Christ, and may also be
applied to the ministers of his word.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:3>Isaiah 49:3</verse></h3>



And said to me, Thou [art] my servant, O (e) Israel, in whom I will be glorified.



(e) By Israel is meant Christ, and all the body of the faithful, as the members and their head.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:4>Isaiah 49:4</verse></h3>



Then I said, I have (f) laboured in vain, I have spent my strength for nothing, and in vain: [yet] surely
my judgment [is] with the LORD, and my work with my God.



(f) Thus Christ in his members complains that his labour and preaching take no effect, yet he is
contented that his doings are approved by God.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:5>Isaiah 49:5</verse></h3>



And now, saith the LORD that formed me from the womb [to be] his servant, to bring Jacob again
to him, Though Israel be not gathered, (g) yet shall I be glorious in the eyes of the LORD, and my
God shall be my strength.



(g) Though the Jews refuse my doctrine, yet God will approve my ministry.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:6>Isaiah 49:6</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 49:6
<h3><verse=isa 49:6>isa 49:6</verse></h3>



to restore the preserved of Israel: I will also give (h) thee for a light to the Gentiles, that thou mayest
be my salvation to the end of the earth.



(h) To declare my gospel to the Gentiles, as in (<bcv=Isa 42:6>Isa 42:6</bcv>;<bcv=Acts 13:47> Act 13:47</bcv>;<bcv=Luk 2:32> Luk 2:32</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 49:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:7>Isaiah 49:7</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, the Redeemer of Israel, [and] his Holy One, to him whom man despiseth, to
him whom the nation abhorreth, to a (i) servant of rulers, Kings shall see and (k) arise, princes also
shall worship, because of the LORD that is faithful, [and] the Holy One of Israel, and he shall
choose thee.



(i) Meaning, the Jews whom tyrants kept in bondage.



(k) The benefit of their deliverance will be so great, that great and small will acknowledge it, and
revere God for it.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:8>Isaiah 49:8</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, (l) In an acceptable time have I heard thee, and in a day of salvation have I
helped thee: and I will preserve thee, and give (m) thee for a covenant of the people, to establish the



(n) earth, to cause to inherit the desolate heritages;



(l) Thus he speaks of his Church when he would show his mercy toward it, (<bcv=2Co 6:2>Co2 6:2</bcv>).



(m) Meaning, Christ alone.



(n) Signifying that before Christ renewed the earth by his word, there is nothing but confusion and
disorder.

#BCV:Isaiah 49:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:9>Isaiah 49:9</verse></h3>



That thou mayest say to the (o) prisoners, Go forth; to them that [are] in darkness, Show yourselves.
They shall feed in the ways, and their (p) pastures [shall be] in all high places.



(o) To them who are in the prison of sin and death.



(p) Being in Christ's protection, they will be safe against all dangers, and free from fear of the
enemies.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:10>Isaiah 49:10</verse></h3>

<page=1784>They shall not hunger nor thirst; neither shall the heat nor sun smite them: for he that hath mercy (q)
on them shall lead them, even by the springs of water shall he guide them.



(q) Meaning, that there would be nothing in their way from Babylon that would hinder or hurt them:
but this is accomplished spiritually.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:12>Isaiah 49:12</verse></h3>



Behold, these shall come from far: and, lo, these from the north and from the west; and these from
the land of (r) Sinim.



(r) Meaning, the south country, so that Christ will deliver his from all the parts of the world.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:13>Isaiah 49:13</verse></h3>



Sing, O (s) heavens; and be joyful, O earth; and break forth into singing, O mountains: for the
LORD hath comforted his people, and will have mercy upon his afflicted.



(s) Read (<bcv=Isa 44:23>Isa 44:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 49:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:14>Isaiah 49:14</verse></h3>



But Zion said, The LORD hath (t) forsaken me, and my Lord hath forgotten me.



(t) He objects what the faithful might say in their long affliction and answers to comfort them with a
most proper comparison and full of consolation.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:16>Isaiah 49:16</verse></h3>



Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of [my] (u) hands; thy (x) walls [are] continually before
me.




(u) Because I would not forget you.



(x) Meaning, the good order of policy and discipline.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:17>Isaiah 49:17</verse></h3>



Thy children shall make (y) haste; thy destroyers and they that made thee waste shall go forth from
thee.



(y) I have continual care to build you up again and to destroy your enemies.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:18>Isaiah 49:18</verse></h3>

<page=1785>Lift up thy eyes around, and behold: all these gather themselves together, [and] come to thee. [As] I
live, saith the LORD, thou shalt surely (z) clothe thee with them all, as with an ornament, and bind
them [on thee], as a bride [doeth].



(z) He shows what are the ornaments of the Church: to have many children, who are assembled by
the word of God, and governed by his Spirit.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:22>Isaiah 49:22</verse></h3>



Thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, I will lift up my hand to the (a) Gentiles, and set up my standard
to the people: and they shall bring thy sons in [their] arms, and thy daughters shall be carried upon
[their] shoulders.



(a) He shows that Christ will not only gather this great number from the Jews but also from the
Gentiles.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:23
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:23>Isaiah 49:23</verse></h3>



And kings (b) shall be thy nursing fathers, and their queens thy nursing mothers: they shall bow to
thee with [their] face toward the earth, and lick up the (c) dust of thy feet; and thou shalt know that
I [am] the LORD: for they shall not be ashamed that wait for me.



(b) Meaning, that kings will be converted to the gospel, and bestow their power and authority for the
preservation of the Church.



(c) Being joined with the Church, they will humble themselves to Christ their head, and give him all
honour.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:24
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:24>Isaiah 49:24</verse></h3>



Shall the prey be (d) taken from the mighty, or the lawful captive delivered?



(d) He makes this as an objection as though the Chaldeans were strong, and had them in just
possession.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:25
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:25>Isaiah 49:25</verse></h3>



But thus saith the LORD, (e) Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of
the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save
thy children.



(e) This is the answer to their objection, that no one is stronger than the Lord, neither has a more
just title to them.
#BCV:Isaiah 49:26
<h3><verse=Isaiah 49:26>Isaiah 49:26</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 49:26
<h3><verse=isa 49:26>isa 49:26</verse></h3>



own blood, as with sweet wine: and all flesh shall know that I the LORD [am] thy Saviour and thy
Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.

(f) I will cause them to destroy one another as in <bcv=Jdg 7:22>(Jdg 7:22;</bcv> <bcv=2Ch 20:22>Ch2 20:22</bcv>; <bcv=Isa 19:2>Isa 19:2</bcv>).

<h2>Isaiah 50</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 50:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 50:1>Isaiah 50:1</verse></h3>

<page=1787>Thus saith the LORD, Where [is] the (a) bill of your mother's divorcement, (b) whom I have put
away? or which of my creditors [is it] (c) to whom I have sold you? Behold, for your iniquities have
ye sold yourselves, and for your transgressions is your mother put away.



(a) Meaning, that he has not forsaken her, but through her own opportunity as in (<bcv=Hos 2:2>Hos 2:2</bcv>).



(b) Who would declare that I have cut her off: meaning, that they could show no one.



(c) Signifying, that he sold them not for any debt or poverty, but that they sold themselves to sins to
buy their own lusts and pleasures.
#BCV:Isaiah 50:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 50:2>Isaiah 50:2</verse></h3>




(d) Why, when I came, [was there] no man? when I called, [was there] none to answer? Is my hand (e)
shortened at all, that it cannot redeem? or have I no power to deliver? behold, at my rebuke I dry up
the sea, I make the rivers a wilderness: their fish smelleth rotten, because [there is] no water, and
dieth for thirst.



(d) He came by his prophets and ministers, but they would not believe their doctrine and convert.



(e) Am I not able to help you, as I have helped your fathers of old, when I dried up the Red sea, and
killed the fish in the rivers, and also afterward in Jordan?
#BCV:Isaiah 50:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 50:3>Isaiah 50:3</verse></h3>



I clothe the heavens with blackness, and I make (f) sackcloth their covering.



(f) As I did in Egypt in token of my displeasure, (<bcv=Exo 10:21>Exo 10:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 50:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 50:4>Isaiah 50:4</verse></h3>



The Lord GOD hath given (g) me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a
word in season to [him that is] (h) weary: he awakeneth morning by morning, he awakeneth my ear
to hear (i) as the learned.



(g) The prophet represents here the person and charge of them that are justly called to the ministry
by God's word.



(h) To him that is oppressed by affliction and misery.



(i) As they who are taught, and made meet by him.
#BCV:Isaiah 50:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 50:6>Isaiah 50:6</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 50:6
<h3><verse=isa 50:6>isa 50:6</verse></h3>



from shame and spitting.



(k) I did not shrink from God for any persecution or calamity. By which he shows that the true
ministers of God can look for no other recompense of the wicked, but after this sort, and also that
is their comfort.
#BCV:Isaiah 50:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 50:10>Isaiah 50:10</verse></h3>




(l) Who [is] among you that feareth the LORD, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh
[in] darkness, and hath no light? let him trust in the name of the LORD, and rely upon his God.



(l) Showing that it is a rare thing that any should obey correctly God's true ministers, though they
labour to bring them from hell to heaven.
#BCV:Isaiah 50:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 50:11>Isaiah 50:11</verse></h3>



Behold, all ye that kindle (m) a fire, that surround [yourselves] with sparks: walk in the light of your
fire, and in the sparks [that] ye have kindled. This shall ye have of my hand; ye shall lie down in
sorrow.



(m) You have sought consolation by your own devises, and have refused the light and consolation
which God has offered: therefore you will remain in sorrow and not be comforted.

<h2>Isaiah 51</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 51:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 51:1>Isaiah 51:1</verse></h3>

<page=1789>Hearken to me, (a) ye that follow after righteousness, ye that seek the LORD: look to the (b) rock
[from which] ye are hewn, and to the hole of the pit [from which] ye were dug.



(a) He comforts the Church, that they would not be discouraged for their small number.



(b) That is, to Abraham, of whom you were begotten, and to Sarah of whom we were born.
#BCV:Isaiah 51:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 51:3>Isaiah 51:3</verse></h3>



For the LORD shall comfort Zion: he will comfort all her waste places; and he will make her
wilderness (c) like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the LORD; joy and gladness shall be
found in it, thanksgiving, and the voice of melody.



(c) As plentiful as paradise, (<bcv=Gen 2:8>Gen 2:8</bcv>,<bcv=Genesis 2:9>9</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 51:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 51:4>Isaiah 51:4</verse></h3>



Hearken to me, my people; and give ear to me, O my nation: for a (d) law shall proceed from me,
and I will make my judgment to rest for a light of the people.



(d) I will rule and govern my Church by my word and doctrine.
#BCV:Isaiah 51:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 51:5>Isaiah 51:5</verse></h3>



My (e) righteousness [is] near; my salvation is gone forth, and my (f) arms shall judge the people; the
isles shall wait upon me, and on my arm shall they trust.



(e) The time that I will accomplish my promise.



(f) My power and strength.
#BCV:Isaiah 51:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 51:6>Isaiah 51:6</verse></h3>



Lift up your eyes to the heavens, and look upon the earth beneath: for the (g) heavens shall vanish
away like smoke, and the earth shall become old like a garment, and its inhabitants shall die in like
manner: but my salvation shall be for ever, and my righteousness shall not be abolished.



(g) Forewarns them of the horrible changes and mutations of all things, and how he will preserve
his church in the midst of all these dangers.
#BCV:Isaiah 51:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 51:9>Isaiah 51:9</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 51:9
<h3><verse=isa 51:9>isa 51:9</verse></h3>



generations of old. [Art] thou not that which hath cut (i) Rahab, [and] wounded the (k) dragon?



(h) He puts them in remembrance of his great benefit for their deliverance out of Egypt, that by it
they might learn to trust in him constantly.



(i) Meaning, Egypt, (<bcv=Psa 87:4>Psa 87:4</bcv>).



(k) That is, Pharaoh, (<bcv=Ezek 29:3>Eze 29:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 51:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 51:11>Isaiah 51:11</verse></h3>



Therefore the redeemed of the LORD shall (l) return, and come with singing to Zion; and
everlasting joy [shall be] upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; sorrow and mourning
shall flee away.



(l) From Babylon.
#BCV:Isaiah 51:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 51:14>Isaiah 51:14</verse></h3>



The captive exile (m) hasteneth that he may be loosed, and that he should not die in the pit, nor that
his bread should fail.



(m) He comforts them by the short time of their banishment: for in seventy years they were restored
and the greatest empire of the world destroyed.
#BCV:Isaiah 51:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 51:16>Isaiah 51:16</verse></h3>



And I have put my words in thy (n) mouth, and have covered thee in the shadow of my hand, that I
may plant the (o) heavens, and lay the foundations of the earth, and say to Zion, Thou [art] my
people.



(n) Meaning, of Isaiah and of all true ministers who are defended by his protection.



(o) That all things may be restored in heaven and earth, (<bcv=Eph 1:10>Eph 1:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 51:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 51:17>Isaiah 51:17</verse></h3>



Awake, awake, stand up, O Jerusalem, which hast drank at the hand of the LORD the (p) cup of his
fury; thou hast drank the dregs of the cup of trembling, [and] wrung [them] out.



(p) You have been justly punished and sufficiently as (<bcv=Isa 40:2>Isa 40:2</bcv>) and this punishment in the elect is by
measure, and according as God gives grace to hear it: but in the reprobate it is the just vengeance of
God to drive them to an insensibleness and madness, as (<bcv=Jer 25:15-16>Jer 25:15-16</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 51:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 51:19>Isaiah 51:19</verse></h3>

<page=1791>These two (q) [things] have come to thee; who shall be sorry for thee? desolation, and destruction,
and famine, and the sword: by whom shall I comfort thee?



(q) Of which the one is outward as of the things that come to the body, as war, and famine and the
other is inward, and belongs to the mind: that is, to be without comfort: therefore he says "How will
you be comforted?"
#BCV:Isaiah 51:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 51:21>Isaiah 51:21</verse></h3>



Therefore hear now this, thou afflicted, and drunk, but (r) not with wine:



(r) But with trouble and fear.

<h2>Isaiah 52</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 52:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 52:1>Isaiah 52:1</verse></h3>

<page=1792>Awake, awake; put on thy strength, O Zion; put on thy beautiful garments, O Jerusalem, the holy
city: for henceforth there shall no (a) more come into thee the uncircumcised and the unclean.



(a) No wicked tyrant, who will subvert God's true religion and oppress the conscience.
#BCV:Isaiah 52:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 52:2>Isaiah 52:2</verse></h3>



Shake thyself from the (b) dust; arise, [and] sit down, O Jerusalem: loose thyself from the bands of
thy neck, O captive daughter of Zion.



(b) Put off the garments of sorrow and heaviness and put on the apparel of joy and gladness.
#BCV:Isaiah 52:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 52:3>Isaiah 52:3</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD, Ye have sold yourselves for (c) nothing; and ye shall be redeemed without
money.



(c) The Babylonians paid nothing to me for you: therefore I will take you again without ransom.
#BCV:Isaiah 52:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 52:4>Isaiah 52:4</verse></h3>



For thus saith the Lord GOD, My people went (d) down in times past into Egypt to sojourn there;
and the Assyrian (e) oppressed them without cause.



(d) When Jacob went there in times of famine.



(e) The Egyptians might pretend some reason to oppress my people because they went there and
remained among them, but the Assyrians have no title to excuse their tyranny by, and therefore I will
punish them more than I did the Egyptians.
#BCV:Isaiah 52:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 52:5>Isaiah 52:5</verse></h3>



Now therefore, what have I here, saith the LORD, that my people is taken away for nothing? they
that rule over them make them to wail, saith the LORD; and my name continually every day [is] (f)
blasphemed.



(f) That is, by the wicked, who think that I have no power to deliver them.
#BCV:Isaiah 52:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 52:7>Isaiah 52:7</verse></h3>

<page=1793>How (g) beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that
proclaimeth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that proclaimeth salvation; that saith to Zion,
Thy God reigneth!



(g) Signifying that the joy and good tidings of their deliverance would make their affliction in the
mean time more easy: but this is chiefly meant of the spiritual joy, as in (<bcv=Nah 1:15>Nah 1:15</bcv>;<bcv=Rom 10:15> Rom 10:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 52:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 52:8>Isaiah 52:8</verse></h3>




(h) Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: for they shall see eye
to eye, when the LORD shall bring again Zion.



(h) The prophets who are your watchmen will publish your deliverance: this was begun under
Zerubbabel, Ezra and Nehemiah, but was accomplished under Christ.
#BCV:Isaiah 52:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 52:10>Isaiah 52:10</verse></h3>



The LORD hath made (i) bare his holy arm in the eyes of all the nations; and all the ends of the
earth shall see the salvation of our God.



(i) As ready to smite his enemies and to deliver his people.
#BCV:Isaiah 52:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 52:11>Isaiah 52:11</verse></h3>




(k) Depart ye, depart ye, go ye out from there, touch no unclean [thing]; go ye out of the midst of
her; be ye clean, that (l) bear the vessels of the LORD.



(k) He warns the faithful not to pollute themselves with the superstitions of the Babylonians, as (<bcv=Isa 48:20>Isa 48:20</bcv>; <bcv=2Co 6:17>Co2 6:17</bcv>).



(l) For the time is at hand that the priests and Levites chiefly (and so by them all the people, who will
be as the Levites in this office) will carry home vessels of the temple which Nebuchadnezzar had
taken away.
#BCV:Isaiah 52:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 52:12>Isaiah 52:12</verse></h3>



For ye shall not go out (m) with haste, nor go by flight: for the LORD will go before you; and the
God of Israel [will be] your rear guard.



(m) As your fathers did out of Egypt.
#BCV:Isaiah 52:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 52:13>Isaiah 52:13</verse></h3>



Behold, my (n) servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high.

<page=1794>(n) Meaning Christ, by whom our spiritual deliverance would be wrought of which this was a sign.
#BCV:Isaiah 52:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 52:14>Isaiah 52:14</verse></h3>



As many were astonished at thee; his visage was so (o) marred more than any man, and his form
more than the sons of men:



(o) In the corrupt judgment of man, Christ in his person was not valued.
#BCV:Isaiah 52:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 52:15>Isaiah 52:15</verse></h3>



So (p) shall he sprinkle many nations; the kings shall shut their (q) mouths at him: for [that] which
had not been told them shall they see; and [that] which they had not heard shall they (r) consider.



(p) He will spread his word through many nations.



(q) In sign of reverence, and as being astonished at his excellency.



(r) By the preaching of the gospel.

<h2>Isaiah 53</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 53:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 53:1>Isaiah 53:1</verse></h3>

<page=1795>Who (a) hath believed our report? and to whom is the (b) arm of the LORD revealed?



(a) The prophet shows that very few will receive their preaching from Christ, and from their
deliverance by him, (<bcv=John 12:38>Joh 12:38</bcv>;<bcv=Rom 10:16> Rom 10:16</bcv>).



(b) Meaning, that no one can believe but whose hearts God touches with the virtue of his Holy
Spirit.
#BCV:Isaiah 53:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 53:2>Isaiah 53:2</verse></h3>



For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a (c) root out of a dry (d) ground: he hath
no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, [there is] no beauty that we should desire him.



(c) The beginning of Christ's kingdom will be small and contemptible in the sight of man, but it will
grow wonderfully and flourish before God.



(d) Read (<bcv=Isa 11:1>Isa 11:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 53:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 53:3>Isaiah 53:3</verse></h3>


He is despised and rejected by men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with (e) grief: and we hid as it
were [our] faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not.


(e) Which was by God's singular providence for the comfort of sinners, (<bcv=Heb 4:15>Heb 4:15</bcv>).

#BCV:Isaiah 53:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 53:4>Isaiah 53:4</verse></h3>


Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried (f) our sorrows: yet we did esteem him (g) stricken,
smitten by God, and afflicted.


(f) That is, the punishment due to our sins, for which he has both suffered and made satisfaction,


(<bcv=Mat 8:17>Mat 8:17</bcv>; <bcv=1Pe 2:24>Pe1 2:24</bcv>).


(g) We judge evil, thinking that he was punished for his own sins, and not for ours.

#BCV:Isaiah 53:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 53:5>Isaiah 53:5</verse></h3>


But he [was] wounded for our transgressions, [he was] bruised for our iniquities: the (h)
chastisement for our peace [was] upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.


(h) He was chastised for our reconciliation, (<bcv=1Co 15:3>1Co 15:3</bcv>).

#BCV:Isaiah 53:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 53:6>Isaiah 53:6</verse></h3>

<page=1796>All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath
laid on him the (i) iniquity of us all.


(i) Meaning, the punishment of our iniquity, and not the fault itself.

#BCV:Isaiah 53:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 53:7>Isaiah 53:7</verse></h3>


He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he (k) opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to
the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he opened not his mouth.


(k) But willingly and patiently obeyed his father's appointment, (<bcv=Mat 26:63>Mat 26:63</bcv>;<bcv=Acts 8:32> Act 8:32</bcv>).

#BCV:Isaiah 53:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 53:8>Isaiah 53:8</verse></h3>


He was taken from (l) prison and from judgment: (m) and who shall declare his generation? for he
was cut off from the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken.


(l) From the cross and grave, after that he was condemned.

(m) Though he died for sin, yet after his resurrection he will live forever and this his death is to
restore life to his members, (<bcv=Rom 6:9>Rom 6:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 53:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 53:9>Isaiah 53:9</verse></h3>

(n) And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no
violence, neither [was any] deceit in his mouth.

(n) God the Father delivered him into the hands of the wicked, and to the powers of the world to
do with him what they would.
#BCV:Isaiah 53:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 53:10>Isaiah 53:10</verse></h3>

Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put [him] to grief: when (o) thou shalt make his soul
an offering for sin, he shall see [his] seed, he shall prolong [his] days, and the pleasure of the LORD
shall prosper in his hand.

(o) Christ by offering up himself will give life to his Church, and so cause them to live with him
forever.
#BCV:Isaiah 53:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 53:11>Isaiah 53:11</verse></h3>

<page=1797>He shall see of the (p) travail of his soul, [and] shall be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my (q)
righteous servant justify many; for he shall bear their iniquities.

(p) That is, the fruit and effect of his labour, which is the salvation of his Church.

(q) Christ will justify by faith through his word, while Moses could not justify by the law.
#BCV:Isaiah 53:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 53:12>Isaiah 53:12</verse></h3>

Therefore I will divide to him [a portion] with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong;
because (r) he hath poured out his soul to death: and he was numbered with the transgressors; and
he bore the sin (s) of many, and made intercession for the transgressors.

(r) Because he humbled himself, therefore he will be extolled to glory, (<bcv=Philip 2:7-12>Phi 2:7-12</bcv>).

(s) That is, of all that believe in him.

<h2>Isaiah 54</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 54:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 54:1>Isaiah 54:1</verse></h3>

<page=1798>Sing, O (a) barren, thou [that] didst not bear; break forth into singing, and cry aloud, thou [that]
didst not travail with child: for more [are] the children of the (b) desolate than the children of the
married wife, saith the LORD.



(a) After he has declared the death of Christ, he speaks to the Church, because it would feel the fruit
of the same, and calls her barren, because in the captivity she was a widow without hope to have any
children.



(b) The Church in this her affliction and captivity will bring forth more children, than when she was
free, or this may be spoken by admiration, considering the great number that would come from her.
Her deliverance under Cyrus was as her childhood, and therefore this was accomplished when she
came of age, which was under the gospel.
#BCV:Isaiah 54:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 54:2>Isaiah 54:2</verse></h3>




(c) Enlarge the place of thy tent, and let them extend the curtains of thy habitations: spare not,
lengthen thy cords, and strengthen thy stakes;



(c) Signifying that for the great number of children that God would give her, she would seem to lack
room to lodge them.
#BCV:Isaiah 54:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 54:4>Isaiah 54:4</verse></h3>



Fear not; for thou shalt not be ashamed: neither be thou confounded; for thou shalt not be put to
shame: for thou shalt forget the shame of thy (d) youth, and shalt not remember the reproach of thy



(e) widowhood any more.



(d) The afflictions which you suffered at the beginning.



(e) When you were refused for your sins, (<bcv=Isa 50:1>Isa 50:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 54:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 54:5>Isaiah 54:5</verse></h3>



For thy (f) Maker [is] thy husband; the LORD of hosts [is] his name; and thy Redeemer the Holy
One of Israel; The God of the whole (g) earth shall he be called.



(f) That regenerated you by his Holy Spirit.



(g) His glory will shine through the whole world, which seemed before to be shut up in Judea.
#BCV:Isaiah 54:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 54:6>Isaiah 54:6</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 54:6
<h3><verse=isa 54:6>isa 54:6</verse></h3>



when thou wast refused, saith thy God.



(h) As a wife who was forsaken in your youth.
#BCV:Isaiah 54:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 54:9>Isaiah 54:9</verse></h3>



For this [is as] the (i) waters of Noah to me: for [as] I have sworn that the waters of Noah shall no
more overflow the earth; so have I sworn that I will not be angry with thee, nor rebuke thee.



(i) As sure as the promise that I made to Noah, that the waters would no longer overflow the earth.
#BCV:Isaiah 54:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 54:11>Isaiah 54:11</verse></h3>



O thou afflicted, tossed with tempest, [and] not comforted, behold, I will lay thy stones with (k) fair
colours, and lay thy foundations with sapphires.



(k) By this he declares the excellent estate of the Church under Christ.
#BCV:Isaiah 54:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 54:13>Isaiah 54:13</verse></h3>



And all thy children [shall be] (l) taught from the LORD; and great [shall be] the peace of thy
children.



(l) By the hearing of his word and inward moving of his spirit.
#BCV:Isaiah 54:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 54:14>Isaiah 54:14</verse></h3>



In (m) righteousness shalt thou be established: thou shalt be far from oppression; for thou shalt not
fear: and from terror; for it shall not come near thee.



(m) In stability and sureness, so that it will stand forever.
#BCV:Isaiah 54:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 54:15>Isaiah 54:15</verse></h3>



Behold, they shall surely assemble, [but] not by (n) me: whoever shall assemble (o) against thee shall
fall for thy sake.



(n) And therefore will not prevail.



(o) Meaning, the domestic enemies of the Church, as are the hypocrites.
#BCV:Isaiah 54:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 54:16>Isaiah 54:16</verse></h3>

<page=1800>Behold, I have created the (p) smith that bloweth the coals in the fire, and that bringeth forth an
instrument for his work; and I have created the waster to destroy.



(p) Signifying by this that man can do nothing, but so far as God gives power: for seeing that all are
his creatures, he must govern and guide them.

<h2>Isaiah 55</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 55:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 55:11>Isaiah 55:11</verse></h3>

<page=1801>So shall my (m) word be that proceedeth from my mouth: it shall not return to me void, but it shall
accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper [in the thing] for which I sent it.



(m) If these small things have their effect, as daily experience shows much more will my promise
which I have made and confirmed, bring to pass the things which I have spoken for your deliverance.
#BCV:Isaiah 55:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 55:12>Isaiah 55:12</verse></h3>



For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the (n) mountains and the hills shall break
forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap [their] hands.



(n) Read (<bcv=Isa 44:23>Isa 44:23</bcv>,<bcv=Isa 49:13> Isa 49:13</bcv>)
#BCV:Isaiah 55:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 55:13>Isaiah 55:13</verse></h3>



Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree:
and it shall be to the LORD (o) for a name, for an everlasting (p) sign [that] shall not be cut off.



(o) To set forth his glory.



(p) Of God's deliverance, and that he will never forsake his Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 55:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 55:1>Isaiah 55:1</verse></h3>



Ho, every one that (a) thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath (b) no money; come ye, buy,
and eat; yea, come, buy (c) wine and milk without money and without price.



(a) Christ by proposing his graces and gifts to his Church, exempts the hypocrites who are full with
their imagined works, and the Epicureans who are full with their worldly lusts, and so do not thirst
after these waters.



(b) Signifying that God's benefits cannot be bought for money.



(c) By waters, wine, milk and bread, he means all things necessary to the spiritual life, as these are
necessary to this corporal life.
#BCV:Isaiah 55:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 55:2>Isaiah 55:2</verse></h3>



Why do ye spend money for [that which is] not bread? (d) and your labour for [that which] satisfieth
not? hearken diligently to me, and eat ye [that which is] good, and let your soul delight itself in (e)
fatness.

<page=1802>(d) He reproves their ingratitude, who refuse those things that God offers willingly, and in the mean
time spare neither cost nor labour to obtain those which are not profitable.



(e) You will be fed abundantly.
#BCV:Isaiah 55:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 55:3>Isaiah 55:3</verse></h3>



Incline your ear, and come to me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting
covenant with you, [even] the (f) sure mercies of David.



(f) The same covenant which through my mercy I ratified and confirmed to David, that it would be
eternal, (<bcv=II Sa 7:13>Sa2 7:13</bcv>;<bcv=Acts 13:34> Act 13:34</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 55:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 55:4>Isaiah 55:4</verse></h3>



Behold, I have given (g) him [for] a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people.



(g) Meaning Christ, of whom David was a figure.
#BCV:Isaiah 55:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 55:5>Isaiah 55:5</verse></h3>



Behold, thou shalt call a nation [that] thou knowest not, (h) and nations [that] knew not thee shall
run to thee because of the LORD thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified
thee.



(h) That is, the Gentiles, who before you did not receive to be your people.
#BCV:Isaiah 55:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 55:6>Isaiah 55:6</verse></h3>



Seek ye the LORD while he may be (i) found, call ye upon him while he is near:



(i) When he offers himself by the preaching of his word.
#BCV:Isaiah 55:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 55:7>Isaiah 55:7</verse></h3>



Let the wicked (k) forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return to the
LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.



(k) By this he shows that repentance must be joined with faith, and how we cannot call on God
correctly, unless the fruits of our faith appear.
#BCV:Isaiah 55:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 55:8>Isaiah 55:8</verse></h3>



For my (l) thoughts [are] not your thoughts, neither [are] your ways my ways, saith the LORD.

<page=1803>(l) Although you are not soon reconciled one to another and judge me by yourselves, yet I am easy
to be reconciled, yea, I offer my mercies to you.

<h2>Isaiah 56</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 56:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 56:1>Isaiah 56:1</verse></h3>

<page=1804>Thus saith the LORD, (a) Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for my salvation [is] near to come, and
my (b) righteousness to be revealed.



(a) God shows what he requires of them after he has delivered them: that is, the works of charity by
which true faith is declared.



(b) Which I will declare toward you, and pour into your hearts by my Spirit.
#BCV:Isaiah 56:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 56:2>Isaiah 56:2</verse></h3>



Blessed [is] the man [that] doeth this, and the son of man [that] layeth hold on it; that keepeth the (c)
sabbath from profaning it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil.



(c) Under the Sabbath he comprehends the whole service of God and true religion.
#BCV:Isaiah 56:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 56:3>Isaiah 56:3</verse></h3>



Neither let the son of the foreigner, that (d) hath joined himself to the LORD, speak, saying, The
LORD hath utterly separated me from his people: neither let the eunuch say, Behold, I [am] a dry
tree.



(d) Let no one think himself unfit to receive the graces of the Lord: for the Lord will take away all
impediments, and will forsake no one who will keep his true religion, and believe in him.
#BCV:Isaiah 56:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 56:5>Isaiah 56:5</verse></h3>



Even to them will I give in my (e) house and within my walls a place and a (f) name better than of
sons and of daughters: I will give them an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off.



(e) Meaning, in his Church.



(f) They will be called after my people, and be of the same religion: yea, under Christ the dignity of
the faithful will be greater than the Jews were at that time.
#BCV:Isaiah 56:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 56:7>Isaiah 56:7</verse></h3>



Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their
burnt (g) offerings and their sacrifices [shall be] accepted upon my altar; for my house shall be called
an house of prayer for (h) all people.

<page=1805>(g) By this he means the spiritual service of God, to whom the faithful offer continual thanksgiving,
yea themselves and all that they have, as a lively and acceptable sacrifice.



(h) Not only for the Jews, but for all others, (<bcv=Mat 21:13>Mat 21:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 56:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 56:9>Isaiah 56:9</verse></h3>



All ye (i) beasts of the field, come to devour, [yea], all ye beasts in the forest.



(i) Meaning, the enemies of the Church, as the Babylonians, Assyrians, etc thus he speaks to scare
the hypocrites and to assure the faithful that when this comes they may know it was told to them
before.
#BCV:Isaiah 56:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 56:10>Isaiah 56:10</verse></h3>



His (k) watchmen [are] blind: they are all ignorant, they [are] all dumb dogs, they cannot bark;
sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber.



(k) He shows that this affliction will come through the fault of the governors, prophets and pastors,
whose ignorance, negligence, greed and obstinacy provoked God's wrath against them.
#BCV:Isaiah 56:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 56:12>Isaiah 56:12</verse></h3>



Come ye, [say they], I will bring wine, and we will fill ourselves with strong drink; and to (l) morrow
shall be as this day, [and] much more abundant.



(l) We are well yet, and to morrow will be better: therefore let us not fear the plagues before they
come: thus the wicked contemned the admonition and exhortations which were made to them in the
Name of God.

<h2>Isaiah 57</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 57:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:1>Isaiah 57:1</verse></h3>

<page=1806>The righteous perisheth, and no man layeth [it] to heart: and merciful men [are] taken away, none
considering that the righteous is taken away (a) from the evil [to come].



(a) From the plague that is at hand, and also because God will punish the wicked.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:2>Isaiah 57:2</verse></h3>




(b) He shall enter into peace: they shall rest in their beds, [each one] walking [in] his uprightness.



(b) The soul of the righteous will be in joy, and their body will rest in the grave to the time of the
resurrection, because they walked before the Lord.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:3>Isaiah 57:3</verse></h3>



But draw near here, ye (c) sons of the sorceress, the seed of the adulterer and the harlot.



(c) He threatens the wicked hypocrites, who under the pretence of the name of God's people,
derided God's word and his promises: boasting openly that they were the children of Abraham, but
because they were not faithful and obedient as Abraham was, he calls them bastards and the children
of sorcerers, who forsook God, and fled to wicked means for comfort.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:5>Isaiah 57:5</verse></h3>



Inflaming yourselves with idols under every green tree, slaying the (d) children in the valleys under
the clefts of the rocks?



(d) Read (<bcv=Lev 18:21>Lev 18:21</bcv>;<bcv=2Ki 23:10> Kg2 23:10).</bcv>
#BCV:Isaiah 57:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:6>Isaiah 57:6</verse></h3>



Among the smooth [stones] (e) of the stream [is] thy portion; they, they [are] thy lot: even to them
hast thou poured a drink offering, thou hast offered a meat offering. Should I receive comfort in (f)
these?



(e) Meaning every place was polluted with their idolatry: or every fair stone they found they made
into an idol.



(f) In the sacrifices which you offering before these idols thought you served God.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:7>Isaiah 57:7</verse></h3>

<page=1807>Upon a lofty and high mountain hast thou set thy (g) bed: even there thou wentest up to offer
sacrifice.



(g) That is, your altars in an open place, like an impudent harlot, that cares not for the sight of her
husband.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:8>Isaiah 57:8</verse></h3>



Behind the (h) doors also and the door posts hast thou set up thy remembrance: for thou hast
uncovered [thyself to another] than me, and hast gone up; thou hast (i) enlarged thy bed, and made
thee [a covenant] with them; thou didst love their bed where thou sawest [it].



(h) Instead of setting up the word of God in the open places on the posts and doors to have it in
remembrance, (<bcv=Deu 6:9>Deu 6:9</bcv>,<bcv=Deu 27:1> Deu 27:1</bcv>) you have set up signs and marks of your idolatry in every place.



(i) That is, increased your idolatry more and more.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:9>Isaiah 57:9</verse></h3>



And thou wentest (k) to the king with ointment, and didst increase thy perfumes, and didst send thy
messengers far off, and didst debase [thyself even] to hell.



(k) You sought the favour of the Assyrians by gifts and presents to help you against the Egyptians
and when they failed you sought the Babylonians, and more and more tormented yourself.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:10>Isaiah 57:10</verse></h3>



Thou art wearied in the greatness of thy way; [yet] saidst thou not, (l) There is no hope: thou (m)
hast found the life of thy hand; therefore thou wast not grieved.



(l) Although you saw all your labours to be in vain, yet would you never acknowledge your fault and
leave off.



(m) He derides their unprofitable diligence, who thought to have made all sure, and yet were
deceived.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:11>Isaiah 57:11</verse></h3>



And of whom hast thou been afraid or feared, that thou hast (n) lied, and hast not remembered me,
nor laid [it] to thy heart? have not I held my peace even of (o) old, and thou fearest me not?



(n) Broken promises with me.



(o) Meaning, that the wicked abuse God's leniency, and grow to further wickedness.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:12>Isaiah 57:12</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 57:12
<h3><verse=isa 57:12>isa 57:12</verse></h3>




(p) That is, your naughtiness, idolatry and impiety which the wicked call God's service: thus he
derides their obstinacy.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:13>Isaiah 57:13</verse></h3>



When thou criest, let thy companies deliver thee; but the wind (q) shall carry them all away; vanity
shall take [them]: but he that putteth his trust in me shall possess the land, and shall inherit my holy
mountain;



(q) Meaning, the Assyrians and others, whose help they looked for.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:14>Isaiah 57:14</verse></h3>




(r) And shall say, Cast ye up, cast ye up, prepare the way, take up the stumblingblock out of the way
of my people.



(r) God will say to Darius and Cyrus.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:16>Isaiah 57:16</verse></h3>



For I will not contend for ever, neither will I be always angry: (s) for the spirit should fail before me,
and the souls [which] I have made.



(s) I will not use my power against frail man, whose life is but a blast.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:17>Isaiah 57:17</verse></h3>



For the (t) iniquity of his covetousness I was angry, and smote him: I hid myself, and was angry, and
he went on backsliding in the way of his heart.



(t) That is, for the vices and faults of the people, which is here meant by covetousness.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:18>Isaiah 57:18</verse></h3>



I have seen his ways, and will (u) heal him: I will lead him also, and restore comforts to him and to
his mourners.



(u) Though they were obstinate, yet I did not withdraw my mercy from them.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:19>Isaiah 57:19</verse></h3>

<page=1809>I create the (x) fruit of the lips; Peace, peace to [him that is] (y) far off, and to [him that is] near,
saith the LORD; and I will heal him.



(x) That is, I frame the speech and words of my messengers who will bring peace.



(y) As well to him that is in captivity as to him that remains at home.
#BCV:Isaiah 57:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 57:20>Isaiah 57:20</verse></h3>



But the wicked [are] like the troubled sea, when it (z) cannot rest, whose waters cast up mire and dirt.



(z) Their evil conscience always torments them and therefore they can never have rest, (<bcv=Isa 48:22>Isa 48:22</bcv>).

<h2>Isaiah 58</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 58:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 58:1>Isaiah 58:1</verse></h3>

<page=1810>Cry (a) aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression, and
the house of Jacob their sins.



(a) The Lord thus speaks to the prophet willing him to use all diligence and severity to rebuke the
hypocrites.
#BCV:Isaiah 58:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 58:2>Isaiah 58:2</verse></h3>



Yet they (b) seek me daily, and delight to know my ways, as a nation that did righteousness, and
forsook not the ordinance of their God: they ask of me the ordinances of justice; they take delight
in approaching to God.



(b) They will seem to worship me and have outward holiness.
#BCV:Isaiah 58:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 58:3>Isaiah 58:3</verse></h3>




(c) Why have we fasted, [say they], and thou seest not? [why] have we afflicted our soul, and thou
takest no knowledge? Behold, in the day of your fast ye find (d) pleasure, and exact all your labours.



(c) He sets forth the malice and disdain of the hypocrites, who grudge against God, if their works
are not accepted.



(d) Thus he convinces the hypocrites by the second table and by their duty toward their neighbour,
that they have neither faith nor religion.
#BCV:Isaiah 58:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 58:4>Isaiah 58:4</verse></h3>



Behold, ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fist of wickedness: ye shall not fast as [ye
do this] day, to make your voice to be (e) heard on high.



(e) So long as you use contention and oppression, your fasting and prayers will not be heard.
#BCV:Isaiah 58:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 58:6>Isaiah 58:6</verse></h3>



[Is] not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy
burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every (f) yoke?



(f) That you leave off all your extortions.
#BCV:Isaiah 58:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 58:7>Isaiah 58:7</verse></h3>

<page=1811>[Is it] not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou shouldest bring the poor that are cast out to
thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou shouldest cover him; and that thou shouldest not
hide thyself from (g) thy own flesh?



(g) For in him you see yourself as in a mirror.
#BCV:Isaiah 58:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 58:8>Isaiah 58:8</verse></h3>



Then shall thy (h) light break forth as the morning, and thy health shall spring forth speedily: and thy



(i) righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rear guard.



(h) That is, the prosperous estate with which God will bless you.



(i) The testimony of your goodness will appear before God and man.
#BCV:Isaiah 58:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 58:9>Isaiah 58:9</verse></h3>



Then shalt thou call, and the LORD shall answer; thou shalt cry, and he shall say, Here I [am]. If
thou shalt take away from the midst of thee the yoke, the putting forth of the (k) finger, and
speaking vanity;



(k) By which is meant all manner of injury.
#BCV:Isaiah 58:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 58:10>Isaiah 58:10</verse></h3>



And [if] thou shalt (l) draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy
light rise in (m) obscurity, and thy darkness [be] as the noonday:



(l) That is, have compassion on their miseries.



(m) Your adversity will be turned into prosperity.
#BCV:Isaiah 58:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 58:12>Isaiah 58:12</verse></h3>



And [they that shall be] of thee shall build the old (n) waste places: thou shalt raise up the
foundations of many generations; and thou shalt be called, The repairer of the breach, The restorer
of paths to dwell in.



(n) Signifying that of the Jews would come such as would build again the ruins of Jerusalem and
Judea: but chiefly this is meant of the spiritual Jerusalem, whose builders were the Apostles.
#BCV:Isaiah 58:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 58:13>Isaiah 58:13</verse></h3>

<page=1812>If thou shalt (o) turn away thy foot from the sabbath, [from] doing thy pleasure on my holy day; and
call the sabbath a delight, the holy of the LORD, honourable; and shalt honour him, not doing thy
own ways, nor finding thy own pleasure, nor speaking [thy own] words:



(o) If you refrain yourself from your wicked works.

<h2>Isaiah 59</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 59:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:3>Isaiah 59:3</verse></h3>

<page=1813>For your hands are defiled with (a) blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies,
your tongue hath uttered perverseness.



(a) Read (<bcv=Isa 1:15>Isa 1:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 59:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:4>Isaiah 59:4</verse></h3>



None calleth for justice, nor [any] (b) pleadeth for truth: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they
conceive mischief, and (c) bring forth iniquity.



(b) All men wink at the injuries and oppressions and none go about to remedy them.



(c) According to their wicked devices, they hurt their neighbours.
#BCV:Isaiah 59:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:5>Isaiah 59:5</verse></h3>



They hatch (d) eggs of an adder, and weave the spider's (e) web: he that eateth of their eggs dieth,
and that which is crushed breaketh out into a viper.



(d) Whatever comes from them is poison, and brings death.



(e) They are profitable to no purpose.
#BCV:Isaiah 59:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:9>Isaiah 59:9</verse></h3>



Therefore is (f) judgment far from us, neither doth (g) justice overtake us: we wait for light, but
behold obscurity; for brightness, [but] we walk in darkness.



(f) That is, God's vengeance to punish our enemies.



(g) God's protection to defend us.
#BCV:Isaiah 59:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:10>Isaiah 59:10</verse></h3>



We grope for the wall like the (h) blind, and we grope as if [we had] no eyes: we stumble at noonday
as in the night; [we are] in desolate places as dead [men].



(h) We are altogether destitute of counsel, and can find no end to our miseries.
#BCV:Isaiah 59:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:11>Isaiah 59:11</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 59:11
<h3><verse=isa 59:11>isa 59:11</verse></h3>



salvation, [but] it is far from us.



(i) We express our sorrows by outward signs, some more and some less.
#BCV:Isaiah 59:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:12>Isaiah 59:12</verse></h3>



For our transgressions are multiplied before thee, and our (k) sins testify against us: for our
transgressions [are] with us; and [as for] our iniquities, we know them;



(k) This confession is general to the Church to obtain remission of sins, and the prophets did not
exempt themselves from the same.
#BCV:Isaiah 59:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:13>Isaiah 59:13</verse></h3>



In transgressing and lying against the LORD, and departing away from our God, speaking
oppression and revolt, conceiving and uttering from the heart words of (l) falsehood.



(l) That is, against our neighbours.
#BCV:Isaiah 59:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:14>Isaiah 59:14</verse></h3>



And (m) judgment is turned away backward, and justice standeth afar off: for truth is fallen in the
street, and equity cannot enter.



(m) There is neither justice nor uprightness among men.
#BCV:Isaiah 59:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:15>Isaiah 59:15</verse></h3>



Yea, truth faileth; and he [that] departeth from evil maketh himself (n) a prey: and the LORD saw
[it], and it displeased him that [there was] no judgment.



(n) The wicked will destroy him.
#BCV:Isaiah 59:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:16>Isaiah 59:16</verse></h3>



And he saw that [there was] no man, and wondered that [there was] no intercessor: (o) therefore his
arm brought (p) salvation to him; and his righteousness, it sustained him.



(o) Meaning, to do justice, and to remedy the things that were so far out of order.



(p) That is, his Church or his arm helped itself and did not seek aid from any other.
#BCV:Isaiah 59:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:17>Isaiah 59:17</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 59:17
<h3><verse=isa 59:17>isa 59:17</verse></h3>



put on the garments of vengeance [for] clothing, and was clad with zeal as a cloke.



(q) Signifying that God has all means at hand to deliver his Church and to punish their enemies.
#BCV:Isaiah 59:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:18>Isaiah 59:18</verse></h3>



According to [their] deeds, accordingly he will repay, fury to his adversaries, recompence to his
enemies; to the (r) isles he will repay recompence.



(r) That is, your enemies who dwell in various places, and beyond the sea.
#BCV:Isaiah 59:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:19>Isaiah 59:19</verse></h3>



So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun.
When the enemy shall (s) come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard
against him.



(s) He shows that there will be great affliction in the Church, but God will always deliver his.
#BCV:Isaiah 59:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:20>Isaiah 59:20</verse></h3>



And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and to (t) them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith
the LORD.



(t) By which he declares that the true deliverance from sin and Satan belongs to none but to the
children of God, whom he justifies.
#BCV:Isaiah 59:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 59:21>Isaiah 59:21</verse></h3>



As for me, this [is] my covenant with them, saith the LORD; My spirit that [is] upon thee, and my
words which I have put in thy mouth, (u) shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth
of thy seed, nor out of the mouth of thy seed's seed, saith the LORD, from henceforth and for ever.



(u) Because the doctrine is made profitable by the virtue of the Spirit, he joins the one with the
other, and promises to give them both to his Church for ever.

<h2>Isaiah 60</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 60:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:1>Isaiah 60:1</verse></h3>

<page=1816>Arise, shine; for thy (a) light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.



(a) The time of your prosperity and happiness: while speaking of Babylon, he commanded her to go
down, (<bcv=Isa 47:1>Isa 47:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 60:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:2>Isaiah 60:2</verse></h3>



For, behold, the darkness shall cover the (b) earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD
shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee.



(b) Signifying, that all men are in darkness till God gives them the light of his Spirit, and that this
light shines to no one, but to those that are in his Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 60:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:3>Isaiah 60:3</verse></h3>



And the Gentiles shall come to (c) thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.



(c) Meaning, that Judea would be as the morning star, and that the Gentiles would receive light from
her.
#BCV:Isaiah 60:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:4>Isaiah 60:4</verse></h3>



Lift up thy eyes around, and see: all (d) they gather themselves together, they come to thee: thy sons
shall come from far, and thy daughters shall be nursed at [thy] side.



(d) An infinite number from all countries as in (<bcv=Isa 49:18>Isa 49:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 60:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:5>Isaiah 60:5</verse></h3>



Then thou shalt see, and flow together, and thy heart shall fear, (e) and be enlarged; because the
abundance of the sea shall be converted to thee, the forces of the Gentiles shall come to thee.



(e) For joy, as the heart is drawn in for sorrow.
#BCV:Isaiah 60:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:6>Isaiah 60:6</verse></h3>



The (f) multitude of camels shall cover thee, the dromedaries of Midian and Ephah; all they from
Sheba shall come: they shall bring gold and incense; and they shall show forth the praises of the
LORD.

<page=1817>(f) Meaning, that everyone will honour the Lord with that with which he is able: Signifying that it is
no true serving of God unless we offer ourselves to serve his glory, and all that we have.
#BCV:Isaiah 60:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:7>Isaiah 60:7</verse></h3>



All the flocks of (g) Kedar shall be gathered together to thee, the rams of Nebaioth shall minister to
thee: they shall come up with acceptance on my (h) altar, and I will glorify the house of my glory.



(g) That is the Arabians, that have great abundance of cattle.



(h) Because the altar was a figure of Christ, (<bcv=Heb 13:10>Heb 13:10</bcv>), he shows that nothing can be acceptable to
him, which is not offered to him by this altar, who was both the offering and the altar itself.
#BCV:Isaiah 60:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:8>Isaiah 60:8</verse></h3>



Who [are] these (i) [that] fly as a cloud, and as doves to their windows?



(i) Showing what great number will come to the Church, and with what great diligence and zeal.
#BCV:Isaiah 60:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:9>Isaiah 60:9</verse></h3>



Surely the isles shall wait for me, and the ships (k) of Tarshish first, to bring thy sons from far, their
silver and their gold with them, to the name of the LORD thy God, and to the Holy One of Israel,
because he hath glorified thee.



(k) The Gentiles that are now enemies, will become friends and set forth the Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 60:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:10>Isaiah 60:10</verse></h3>



And the sons of foreigners shall build up thy walls, and their (l) kings shall minister to thee: for in
my wrath I smote thee, but in my favour have I had mercy on thee.



(l) Meaning Cyrus and his successors, but chiefly this is accomplished in them that serve Christ,
being converted by his gospel.
#BCV:Isaiah 60:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:12>Isaiah 60:12</verse></h3>



For the nation and (m) kingdom that will not serve thee shall perish; yea, [those] nations shall be
utterly wasted.



(m) He shows that God has given all power and authority here in earth for the use of his Church,
and that they who will not serve and profit the same will be destroyed.
#BCV:Isaiah 60:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:13>Isaiah 60:13</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 60:13
<h3><verse=isa 60:13>isa 60:13</verse></h3>



beautify the place of my sanctuary; and I will make the place of my (o) feet glorious.



(n) There is nothing so excellent which will not serve the needs of the Church.



(o) Signifying that God's majesty is not included in the temple, which is but the place for his feet,
that we may learn to rise to the heavens.
#BCV:Isaiah 60:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:14>Isaiah 60:14</verse></h3>



The sons also of them that afflicted thee shall come bending to thee; and all they that despised thee
shall bow themselves (p) down at the soles of thy feet; and they shall call thee, The city of the
LORD, The Zion of the Holy One of Israel.



(p) To worship their head Christ, by obeying his doctrine.
#BCV:Isaiah 60:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:16>Isaiah 60:16</verse></h3>



Thou shalt also suck the milk of the Gentiles, and shalt suck the (q) breast of kings: and thou shalt
know that I the LORD [am] thy Saviour and thy Redeemer, the mighty One of Jacob.



(q) Both high and low will be ready to help and comfort you.
#BCV:Isaiah 60:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:17>Isaiah 60:17</verse></h3>



For brass I will bring gold, and for iron I will bring silver, and for wood brass, and for stones iron: I
will also make thy officers (r) peace, and thy exactors righteousness.



(r) Your governors will love you, and seek your wealth and prosperity.
#BCV:Isaiah 60:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:18>Isaiah 60:18</verse></h3>



Violence shall no more be heard in thy land, wasting nor destruction within thy borders; but thou
shalt (s) call thy walls Salvation, and thy gates Praise.



(s) Meaning not an earthly happiness, but spiritual, which is fulfilled in Christ's kingdom.
#BCV:Isaiah 60:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:19>Isaiah 60:19</verse></h3>



The sun shall be no more thy light by day; neither for brightness shall the (t) moon give light to thee:
but the LORD shall be to thee an everlasting light, and thy God thy glory.

<page=1819>(t) Signifying that all worldly means will cease, and that Christ will be all in all, as in (<bcv=Rev 21:23>Rev 21:23</bcv>, <bcv=Rev 22:5>Rev 22:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 60:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:21>Isaiah 60:21</verse></h3>



Thy people also [shall be] all righteous: they shall inherit the land for ever, the (u) branch of my
planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified.



(u) The children of the Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 60:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 60:22>Isaiah 60:22</verse></h3>



A little one shall become a (x) thousand, and a small one a strong nation: I the LORD will hasten it
in its time.



(x) Meaning, that the Church would be miraculously multiplied.

<h2>Isaiah 61</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 61:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 61:1>Isaiah 61:1</verse></h3>

<page=1820>The Spirit of the Lord GOD [is] (a) upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good
tidings to the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the (b) brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the (c)
captives, and the opening of the prison to [them that are] bound;



(a) Thus belongs to all the prophets and ministers of God, but chiefly to Christ, of whose abundant
graces everyone receives according as it pleases him to distribute.



(b) To them that are lively touched with the feeling of their sins.



(c) Who are in the bondage of sin.
#BCV:Isaiah 61:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 61:2>Isaiah 61:2</verse></h3>



To proclaim the (d) acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of (e) vengeance of our God; to
comfort all that mourn;



(d) The time when it pleased God to show his good favour to man, which Paul calls the fulness of
time, (<bcv=Gal 4:4>Gal 4:4</bcv>).



(e) For when God delivers his Church, he punishes his enemies.
#BCV:Isaiah 61:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 61:3>Isaiah 61:3</verse></h3>



To appoint to them that mourn in Zion, to give to them beauty for (f) ashes, the oil of joy for
mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called (g) trees of
righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he may be glorified.



(f) Which was the sign of mourning.



(g) Trees that bring forth good fruits, as in (<bcv=Mat 3:8>Mat 3:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 61:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 61:4>Isaiah 61:4</verse></h3>



And they shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall repair
the waste cities, the desolations of many (h) generations.



(h) That is, for a long time.
#BCV:Isaiah 61:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 61:5>Isaiah 61:5</verse></h3>

<page=1821>And foreigners shall (i) stand and feed your flocks, and the sons of the alien [shall be] your plowmen
and your vinedressers.



(i) They will be ready to serve you in all your needs.
#BCV:Isaiah 61:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 61:6>Isaiah 61:6</verse></h3>



But ye shall be named the (k) Priests of the LORD: [men] shall call you the Ministers of our God:
ye shall eat the (l) riches of the Gentiles, and in their glory shall ye boast yourselves.



(k) This is accomplished in the time of Christ, by whom all the faithful are made priests and kings,



(<bcv=1Pe 2:9>Pe1 2:9</bcv>; <bcv=Rev 1:6>Rev 1:6</bcv>, <bcv=Rev 5:10>Rev 5:10</bcv>).



(l) Read (<bcv=Isa 60:11>Isa 60:11</bcv>,<bcv=Isa 60:16> Isa 60:16</bcv>).

#BCV:Isaiah 61:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 61:7>Isaiah 61:7</verse></h3>



For your shame [ye shall have] (m) double; and [for] confusion (n) they shall rejoice in (o) their
portion: therefore in their land they shall possess the (p) double: everlasting joy shall be to them.



(m) Abundant recompence as this word is used, (<bcv=Isa 40:2>Isa 40:2</bcv>).



(n) That is, the Jews.



(o) That is, of the Gentiles.



(p) While the Gentiles had dominion over the Jews in times past, now they will have double
authority over them and possess twice as much.
#BCV:Isaiah 61:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 61:8>Isaiah 61:8</verse></h3>



For I the LORD love judgment, I hate (q) robbery for burnt offering; and I will direct their work in
truth, and I will make an everlasting covenant with them.



(q) I will not receive their offerings who are extortioners, deceivers, hypocrites or that deprive me of
my glory.
#BCV:Isaiah 61:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 61:9>Isaiah 61:9</verse></h3>



And (r) their seed shall be known among the Gentiles, and their offspring among the people: all that
see them shall acknowledge them, that they [are] the seed [which] the LORD hath blessed.



(r) That is, of the Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 61:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 61:10>Isaiah 61:10</verse></h3>


<page=1822>(s) I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with
the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom
decketh [himself] with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth [herself] with her jewels.



(s) He shows what will be the affection, when they feel their deliverance.

<h2>Isaiah 62</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 62:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 62:1>Isaiah 62:1</verse></h3>

<page=1823>For Zion's sake I will not (a) hold my peace, and for Jerusalem's sake I will not rest, until its
righteousness shall go forth as (b) brightness, and its salvation as a lamp [that] burneth.



(a) The prophet says that he will never cease to declare to the people the good tidings of their
deliverance.



(b) Till they have full deliverance: and this the prophet speaks to encourage all other ministers to the
setting forth of God's mercies toward his Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 62:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 62:2>Isaiah 62:2</verse></h3>



And the Gentiles shall see thy righteousness, and all kings thy glory: and thou shalt be called by (c) a
new name, which the mouth of the LORD shall name.



(c) You will have a more excellent fame than you have had till now.
#BCV:Isaiah 62:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 62:3>Isaiah 62:3</verse></h3>



Thou shalt also be a (d) crown of glory in the hand of the LORD, and a royal diadem in the hand
of thy God.



(d) He will value you as dear and precious as a king does his crown.
#BCV:Isaiah 62:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 62:4>Isaiah 62:4</verse></h3>



Thou shalt no more be termed (e) Forsaken; neither shall thy land any more be termed Desolate: but
thou shalt be called Hephzibah, and thy land Beulah: for the LORD delighteth in thee, and thy land
shall be (f) married.



(e) You will no longer be contemned as a woman forsaken by her husband.



(f) That it may be replenished with children.
#BCV:Isaiah 62:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 62:5>Isaiah 62:5</verse></h3>



For [as] a young man marrieth a virgin, [so] shall thy sons (g) marry thee: and [as] the bridegroom
rejoiceth over the bride, [so] shall thy God rejoice over thee.



(g) As they confess one faith and religion with you, they are in the same bond of marriage with you,
and they are called the children of the Church, as Christ makes her plentiful to bring forth children
to him.
#BCV:Isaiah 62:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 62:6>Isaiah 62:6</verse></h3>

<page=1824>I have set (h) watchmen upon thy walls, O Jerusalem, [which] shall never hold their peace day nor
night: (i) ye that make mention of the LORD, keep not silence,



(h) Prophets, pastors and ministers.



(i) He exhorts the ministers never to cease to call on God by prayer for the deliverance of his
Church and to teach others to do the same.
#BCV:Isaiah 62:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 62:7>Isaiah 62:7</verse></h3>



And give him no rest, till he shall establish, and till he shall make Jerusalem a (k) praise in the earth.



(k) For the restoration of which all the world will praise him.
#BCV:Isaiah 62:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 62:10>Isaiah 62:10</verse></h3>




(l) Go through, go through the gates; prepare ye the way of the people; cast up, cast up the highway;
gather out the stones; lift up a standard for the people.



(l) Signifying the great number that would come to the Church, and what means he would prepare
for the restitution of the same, as in (<bcv=Isa 57:14>Isa 57:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 62:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 62:11>Isaiah 62:11</verse></h3>



Behold, the LORD hath proclaimed to the end of the world, (m) Say ye to the daughter of Zion,
Behold, thy salvation cometh; behold, his reward [is] with him, and (n) his work before him.



(m) You prophets and ministers show the people of this their deliverance: which was chiefly meant
of our salvation by Christ, (<bcv=Zec 9:9>Zac 9:9</bcv>;<bcv=Mat 21:5> Mat 21:5</bcv>).



(n) He will have all power to bring his purpose to pass, as in (<bcv=Isa 40:10>Isa 40:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 62:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 62:12>Isaiah 62:12</verse></h3>



And they shall call them, The holy people, The redeemed of the LORD: and thou shalt be called,
Sought out, A (o) city not forsaken.



(o) That is, one over whom God has had a singular care to recover her when she was lost.

<h2>Isaiah 63</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 63:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 63:1>Isaiah 63:1</verse></h3>

<page=1825>Who [is] this that cometh (a) from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this [that is] glorious in
his apparel, travelling in the greatness of his strength? (b) I that speak in righteousness, mighty to
save.



(a) This prophecy is against the Idumeans and enemies who persecuted the Church, on whom God
will take vengeance, and is here set forth all bloody after he has destroyed them in Bozrah, the chief
city of the Idumeans: for these were their greatest enemies,and under the title of circumcision and
the kindred of Abraham.



(b) God answers them that asked this question, "Who is this?" etc. and says "You see now
performed in deed the vengeance which my prophets threatened."
#BCV:Isaiah 63:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 63:2>Isaiah 63:2</verse></h3>




(c) Why [art thou] red in thy apparel, and thy garments like him that treadeth in the wine press?



(c) Another question, to which the Lord answers.
#BCV:Isaiah 63:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 63:4>Isaiah 63:4</verse></h3>



For the day of vengeance [is] in my heart, and the (d) year of my redeemed is come.



(d) Showing that when God punishes his enemies, it is for the profit and deliverance of his Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 63:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 63:5>Isaiah 63:5</verse></h3>



And I looked, and [there was] none to help; and I wondered that [there was] none to uphold:
therefore my own (e) arm brought salvation to me; and my fury, it upheld me.



(e) God shows that he has no need of man's help for the deliverance of his, and though men refuse
to do their duty through negligence and ingratitude, yet he himself will deliver his Church, and
punish the enemies, (<bcv=Isa 59:16>Isa 59:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 63:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 63:6>Isaiah 63:6</verse></h3>



And I will tread down the people in my anger, and make them (f) drunk in my fury, and I will bring
down their strength to the earth.



(f) I will so astonish them and make them so giddy that they will not know which way to go.
#BCV:Isaiah 63:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 63:7>Isaiah 63:7</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 63:7
<h3><verse=isa 63:7>isa 63:7</verse></h3>



all that the LORD hath bestowed on us, and the great goodness toward the house of Israel, which
he hath bestowed on them according to his mercies, and according to the multitude of his
lovingkindnesses.



(g) The prophet speaks this to move the people to remember God's benefits in times past, that they
may be confirmed in their troubles.
#BCV:Isaiah 63:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 63:8>Isaiah 63:8</verse></h3>



For he said, Surely they [are] my (h) people, children [that] will not lie: so he was their Saviour.



(h) For I chose them to be mine, that they should be holy, and not deceive my expectation.
#BCV:Isaiah 63:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 63:9>Isaiah 63:9</verse></h3>



In all their affliction he was (i) afflicted, and the angel (k) of his presence saved them: in his love and
in his pity he redeemed them; and he bore them, and carried them all the days of old.



(i) He bore their afflictions and griefs as though they had been his own.



(k) Which was a witness of God's presence, and this may be referred to Christ, to whom belongs the
office of salvation.
#BCV:Isaiah 63:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 63:11>Isaiah 63:11</verse></h3>



Then he (l) remembered the days of old, Moses, [and] his people, [saying], Where [is] he that
brought them out of the sea with the (m) shepherd of his flock? where [is] he that put his Holy
Spirit within (n) him?



(l) That is, the people of Israel being afflicted, called to mind God's benefits, which he had bestowed
on their fathers in times past.



(m) Meaning, Moses.



(n) That is, in Moses that he might well govern the people: some refer this giving of the spirit to the
people.
#BCV:Isaiah 63:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 63:13>Isaiah 63:13</verse></h3>



That led them through the deep, as an (o) horse in the wilderness, [that] they should not stumble?



(o) Peaceably and gentle, as a horse is led to his pasture.
#BCV:Isaiah 63:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 63:15>Isaiah 63:15</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 63:15
<h3><verse=isa 63:15>isa 63:15</verse></h3>



[is] thy (q) zeal and thy strength, the sounding of thy bowels and of thy mercies toward me? are they



(r) restrained?



(p) Having declared God's benefits showed to their forefathers, he turned himself to God by prayer,
desiring him to continue the same graces toward them.



(q) Your great affection, which you bore for us.



(r) Meaning, from the whole body of the Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 63:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 63:16>Isaiah 63:16</verse></h3>



Doubtless thou [art] our father, though (s) Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us
not: thou, O LORD, [art] our father, our redeemer; thy name [is] from everlasting.



(s) Though Abraham would refuse us to be his children, yet you will not refuse to be our father.
#BCV:Isaiah 63:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 63:17>Isaiah 63:17</verse></h3>



O LORD, why hast (t) thou made us to err from thy ways, [and] hardened our heart from thy fear?
Return for thy (u) servants' sake, the tribes of thy inheritance.



(t) By taking away the Holy Spirit from us, by whom we were governed, and so for our ingratitude
delivered us up to our own concupiscence, and punished sin by sin according to your just judgment.



(u) Meaning, for the covenant's sake made to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob his servants.
#BCV:Isaiah 63:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 63:18>Isaiah 63:18</verse></h3>



The people of thy holiness have possessed [it] but a little (x) while: our adversaries have trodden
down thy sanctuary.



(x) That is, in respect to the promise, which is perpetual: even though they had now possessed the
land of Canaan for 1400 years: and thus they lament, to move God rather to remember his covenant,
than to punish their sins.

<h2>Isaiah 64</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 64:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 64:1>Isaiah 64:1</verse></h3>

<page=1828>O that thou wouldest (a) rend the heavens, that thou wouldest come down, that the mountains
might flow down at thy presence,



(a) The prophet continues his prayer, desiring God to declare his love toward his Church by miracles
and mighty power, as he did in mount Sinai.
#BCV:Isaiah 64:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 64:2>Isaiah 64:2</verse></h3>



As [when] the melting fire burneth, the fire causeth (b) the waters to boil, to make thy name known
to thy adversaries, [that] the nations may tremble at thy presence!



(b) Meaning, the rain, hail, fire, thunder and lightning.

#BCV:Isaiah 64:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 64:4>Isaiah 64:4</verse></h3>


For since the beginning of the world [men] have not (c) heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath
the eye seen, O God, besides thee, [what] he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him.


(c) Paul uses the same kind of admiration, (<bcv=1Co 2:9>1Co 2:9</bcv>) marvelling at God's great benefit showed to his
Church, by the preaching of the gospel.

#BCV:Isaiah 64:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 64:5>Isaiah 64:5</verse></h3>


Thou meetest him (d) that rejoiceth and worketh righteousness, [those that] remember thee in thy (e)
ways: behold, thou art angry; for we have sinned: in (f) those is continuance, and we (g) shall be
saved.


(d) You showed favour toward our fathers, when they trusted in you and walked after your
commandments.


(e) They considered your great mercies.


(f) That is, in your mercies, which he calls the ways of the Lord.


(g) You will have pity on us.

#BCV:Isaiah 64:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 64:6>Isaiah 64:6</verse></h3>



But we are all as an unclean [thing], and all our (h) righteousnesses [are] as filthy rags; and we all do
fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away.

<page=1829>(h) We are justly punished and brought into captivity, because we have provoked you to anger, and
though we would excuse ourselves, yet our righteousness, and best virtues are before you as vile
cloths, or (as some read) like the menstruous cloths of a woman.
#BCV:Isaiah 64:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 64:8>Isaiah 64:8</verse></h3>



But now, O LORD, thou [art] our father; we [are] the (i) clay, and thou our potter; and we all [are]
the work of thy hand.



(i) Even though O Lord by your just judgment you may utterly destroy us as the potter may his pot,
yet we appeal to your mercies, by which it has pleased you to adopt us to be your children.
#BCV:Isaiah 64:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 64:9>Isaiah 64:9</verse></h3>



Be not very angry, O LORD, (k) neither remember iniquity for ever: behold, see, we beseech thee,
we [are] all thy people.



(k) For so the flesh judges when God does not immediately send comfort.
#BCV:Isaiah 64:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 64:10>Isaiah 64:10</verse></h3>




(l) Thy holy cities are a wilderness, Zion is a wilderness, Jerusalem a desolation.



(l) Who were dedicated to your service, and to call on your Name.
#BCV:Isaiah 64:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 64:11>Isaiah 64:11</verse></h3>



Our holy and our beautiful house, (m) where our fathers praised thee, is burned with fire: and all our
pleasant things are laid waste.



(m) In which we rejoiced and worshipped you.
#BCV:Isaiah 64:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 64:12>Isaiah 64:12</verse></h3>



Wilt thou restrain thyself (n) for these [things], O LORD? wilt thou hold thy peace, and grievously
afflict us?



(n) That is, at the contempt of your own glory? Though our sins have deserved this, yet you will not
permit your glory thus to be diminished.

<h2>Isaiah 65</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 65:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:1>Isaiah 65:1</verse></h3>

<page=1830>I am sought by [them that] (a) asked not [for me]; I am found by [them that] sought me not: I said,
Behold me, behold me, to a nation [that] was not called by my name.



(a) Meaning, the Gentiles who know not God, would seek him, when he had moved their heart with
his Holy Spirit, (<bcv=Rom 10:20>Rom 10:20</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 65:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:2>Isaiah 65:2</verse></h3>



I have (b) spread out my hands all the day to a rebellious people, which walketh in a way [that is] not
good, after their own (c) thoughts;



(b) He shows the reason for the rejection of the Jews, because they would not obey him or any
admonition of his prophets, by whom he called them continually and stretch out his hand to draw
them.



(c) He shows that to delight in our own fantasies is the declining from God and the beginning of all
superstitions and idolatry.
#BCV:Isaiah 65:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:3>Isaiah 65:3</verse></h3>



A people that provoketh me to anger continually to my face; that sacrificeth in (d) gardens, and
burneth incense upon altars of (e) brick;



(d) Which were dedicated to idols.



(e) Meaning their altars, which he thus named by contempt.
#BCV:Isaiah 65:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:4>Isaiah 65:4</verse></h3>



Which remain among the (f) graves, and lodge in the monuments, which eat (g) swine's flesh, and
broth of abominable [things is in] their vessels;



(f) To consult with spirits, and to conjure devils, which was forbidden.



(g) Which was contrary to God's commandment, (<bcv=Lev 11:7>Lev 11:7</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 14:8> Deu 14:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Isaiah 65:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:5>Isaiah 65:5</verse></h3>



Which say, (h) Stand by thyself, come not near to me; for I am holier than thou. These [are] a smoke
in my nose, a fire that (i) burneth all the day.

<page=1831>(h) He shows that hypocrisy is always joined with pride and contempt of others.



(i) Their punishment will never have an end.
#BCV:Isaiah 65:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:6>Isaiah 65:6</verse></h3>



Behold, [it is] (k) written before me: I will not keep silence, but will recompense, even recompense
into their bosom,



(k) So that the remembrance of it cannot be forgotten.
#BCV:Isaiah 65:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:7>Isaiah 65:7</verse></h3>



Your iniquities, and the iniquities of your fathers (l) together, saith the LORD, who have burned
incense upon the mountains, and blasphemed me upon the hills: therefore will I measure their
former work into their bosom.



(l) Will be both punished together: and this declares how the children are punished for their fathers
faults, that is, when the same faults or like are found in them.
#BCV:Isaiah 65:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:8>Isaiah 65:8</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, As the new wine is found in the cluster, and [one] saith, Destroy it not; for a



(m) blessing [is] in it: so will I do for my servants' sake, that I may not destroy them all.



(m) That is, it is profitable: meaning that God will not destroy the faithful branches of his vineyard,
when he destroys the rotten stocks, that is, the hypocrites.
#BCV:Isaiah 65:10
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:10>Isaiah 65:10</verse></h3>



And (n) Sharon shall be a fold of flocks, and the valley of Achor a place for the herds to lie down in,
for my people that have sought me.



(n) Which was a plentiful place in Judea to feed sheep, as Achor was for cattle.
#BCV:Isaiah 65:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:11>Isaiah 65:11</verse></h3>



But ye [are] they that forsake the LORD, that forget my holy mountain, that prepare a table for that



(o) troop, and that furnish the drink offering to that number.



(o) By the multitude and number he means their innumerable idols of whom they thought they
could never have enough.
#BCV:Isaiah 65:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:12>Isaiah 65:12</verse></h3>

#BCV:isa 65:12
<h3><verse=isa 65:12>isa 65:12</verse></h3>



when I called, ye did not answer; when I (q) spoke, ye did not hear; but did evil before my eyes, and
did choose [that] in which I delighted not.



(p) Seeing you cannot number your gods, I will number you with the sword.



(q) By my prophets, whom you would not obey.
#BCV:Isaiah 65:13
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:13>Isaiah 65:13</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD, Behold, my servants shall (r) eat, but ye shall be hungry: behold,
my servants shall drink, but ye shall be thirsty: behold, my servants shall rejoice, but ye shall be
ashamed:



(r) By these words, eat and drink, he means the blessed life of the faithful, who have always had
consolation and full contentment of all things in their God, though sometimes they lack these
corporal things.
#BCV:Isaiah 65:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:15>Isaiah 65:15</verse></h3>



And ye shall leave your name for a curse to my (s) chosen: for the Lord GOD shall slay thee, and
call his servants by (t) another name:



(s) Meaning, that he would call the Gentiles, who would abhor even the very name of the Jews for
their infidelities sake.



(t) Than by the name of the Jews.
#BCV:Isaiah 65:16
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:16>Isaiah 65:16</verse></h3>



That he who blesseth himself in the (u) earth shall bless himself in the God of truth; and he that
sweareth in the earth shall swear by the God of truth; because the former (x) troubles are forgotten,
and because they are hid from my eyes.



(u) By blessing, and by swearing is meant the praising of God for his benefits, and the true
worshipping of him, who will not be only in Judea, but through all the world.



(x) I will no longer permit my Church to be desolate as in times past.
#BCV:Isaiah 65:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:17>Isaiah 65:17</verse></h3>



For, behold, I create (y) new heavens and a new earth: and the former shall not be remembered, nor
come into mind.

<page=1833>(y) I will so altar and change the state of my church, that it will seem to dwell in a new world.
#BCV:Isaiah 65:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:20>Isaiah 65:20</verse></h3>



There shall be no more from there an infant of days, nor an old man that hath (z) not filled his days:
for the child shall die an hundred years old; but the sinner [being] (a) an hundred years old shall be
accursed.



(z) Meaning, in this wonderful restoration of the Church there would be no weakness of youth, nor
infirmities of age, but all would be fresh and flourishing: and this is accomplished in the heavenly
Jerusalem, when all sins will cease, and the tears will be wiped away.



(a) By which he shows that the infidels and unrepentant sinners have no part of this benediction.
#BCV:Isaiah 65:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:21>Isaiah 65:21</verse></h3>



And they shall (b) build houses, and inhabit [them]; and they shall plant vineyards, and eat the fruit
of them.



(b) He proposes to the faithful the blessings which are contained in the law, and so under temporal
things comprehends the spiritual promises.
#BCV:Isaiah 65:25
<h3><verse=Isaiah 65:25>Isaiah 65:25</verse></h3>



The (c) wolf and the lamb shall feed together, and the lion shall eat straw like the ox: and dust [shall
be] the serpent's food. They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain, saith the LORD.



(c) Read (<bcv=Isa 11:6>Isa 11:6</bcv>).

<h2>Isaiah 66</h2>

#BCV:Isaiah 66:1
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:1>Isaiah 66:1</verse></h3>

<page=1834>Thus saith the LORD, The (a) heaven [is] my throne, and the earth [is] my footstool: where [is] the
house that ye build to me? and where [is] the place of my rest?



(a) My majesty is so great, that it fills both heaven and earth, and therefore cannot be included in a
temple like an idol, condemning by this their main confidence which trusted in the temple and
sacrifices.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:2
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:2>Isaiah 66:2</verse></h3>



For all these [things] hath my hand made, (b) and all these [things] have been, saith the LORD: but
to this [man] will I look, [even] to [him that is] poor and of (c) a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my
word.



(b) Seeing that both the temple and the things in it, with the sacrifices were made and done by his
appointment, he shows that he has no need of it, and that he can be without them, See<bcv=Psa 50:10> Psa 50:10</bcv>.



(c) To him that is humble and pure in heart, who receives my doctrine with reverence and fear.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:3
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:3>Isaiah 66:3</verse></h3>



He that killeth an ox [is as if] he (d) slew a man; he that sacrificeth a lamb, [as if] he cut off a dog's
neck; he that offereth an oblation, [as if he offered] swine's blood; he that burneth incense, [as if] he
blessed an idol. Yea, they have chosen their own ways, and their soul delighteth in their abominations.



(d) Because the Jews thought themselves holy by offering their sacrifices, and in the mean season
had neither faith or repentance, God shows that he no less detests these ceremonies than he does
the sacrifices of the heathen, who offered men, dogs and swine to their idols, which things were
expressly forbidden in the law.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:4
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:4>Isaiah 66:4</verse></h3>



I also will (e) choose their delusions, and will bring their fears upon them; because when I called,
none did answer; when I spoke, they did not hear: but they did evil before my eyes, and chose [that]
in which I delighted not.



(e) I will discover their wickedness and hypocrisy, with which they think to blind my eyes to all the
world.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:5
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:5>Isaiah 66:5</verse></h3>

<page=1835>Hear the word of the LORD, ye that tremble at his (f) word; Your brethren that hated you, that cast
you out for my name's sake, said, Let the LORD be glorified: but he shall appear to your joy, and
they shall be ashamed.



(f) He encourages the faithful by promising to destroy their enemies, who pretended to be as
brethren, but were hypocrites, and hated them that feared God.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:6
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:6>Isaiah 66:6</verse></h3>




(g) A voice of noise from the city, a voice from the temple, a voice of the LORD that rendereth
recompence to his enemies.



(g) The enemies will shortly hear a more terrible voice, even fire and slaughter, seeing they would
not hear the gentle voice of the prophets, who called them to repentance.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:7
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:7>Isaiah 66:7</verse></h3>



Before (h) she travailed, she brought forth; before her pain came, she was delivered of a male child.



(h) Meaning, that the restoration of the church would be so sudden and contrary to all men's
opinions as when a woman is delivered before she looked for it, and without pain in travail.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:8
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:8>Isaiah 66:8</verse></h3>



Who hath heard such a thing? who hath seen such things? Shall the earth be made to bring forth in
one (i) day? [or] shall a nation be born at once? for as soon as Zion travailed, she brought forth her
children.



(i) This will pass the capacity of man to see such a multitude that will come up at once, meaning
under the preaching of the gospel of which they who came out of Babylon were a sign.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:9
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:9>Isaiah 66:9</verse></h3>



Shall I (k) bring to the birth, and not cause to bring forth? saith the LORD: shall I cause to bring
forth, and shut [the womb]? saith thy God.



(k) Declaring by this that as by his power and providence women travailed and delivered so he gives
power to bring forth the Church at his appointed time.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:11
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:11>Isaiah 66:11</verse></h3>



That ye may nurse, (l) and be satisfied with the breasts of her consolations; that ye may draw milk,
and be delighted with the abundance of her glory.

<page=1836>(l) That is may rejoice for all the blessings that God bestows on his Church.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:12
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:12>Isaiah 66:12</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will extend (m) peace to her like a river, and the glory of the (n)
Gentiles like a flowing stream: then shall ye be nursed, ye shall be (o) borne upon [her] sides, and be
dandled upon [her] knees.



(m) I will give her happiness and prosperity in great abundance.



(n) Read (<bcv=Isa 60:16>Isa 60:16</bcv>).



(o) You will be cherished as her dearly beloved children.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:14
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:14>Isaiah 66:14</verse></h3>



And when ye see [this], your heart shall rejoice, and your (p) bones shall flourish like an herb: and
the hand of the LORD shall be known toward his servants, and [his] indignation toward his enemies.



(p) You will have new strength and new beauty.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:15
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:15>Isaiah 66:15</verse></h3>



For, behold, the LORD will come with fire, and with his chariots like a whirlwind, to (q) render his
anger with fury, and his rebuke with flames of fire.



(q) This vengeance God began to execute at the destruction of Babylon and has always continued it
against the enemies of his Church, and will do till the last day, which will be the accomplishment of
it.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:17
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:17>Isaiah 66:17</verse></h3>



They that sanctify (r) themselves, and purify themselves in the gardens behind one [tree] in the midst,
eating (s) swine's flesh, and the abomination, and the mouse, shall be consumed together, saith the
LORD.



(r) Meaning, the hypocrites.



(s) By which are meant them that maliciously transgressed the law, by eating beasts forbidden, even
to the mouse which nature abhors.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:18
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:18>Isaiah 66:18</verse></h3>



For I [know] their works and their thoughts: it shall come, that I will gather all nations and tongues;
and they shall come, and see my (t) glory.

<page=1837>(t) The Gentiles will be partakers of that glory, which before I showed to the Jews.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:19
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:19>Isaiah 66:19</verse></h3>

And I will set a (u) sign among them, and I will send those that (x) escape of them to the nations, [to]



(y) Tarshish, (z) Pul, and (a) Lud, that draw the (b) bow, [to] (c) Tubal, and (d) Javan, [to] the isles
afar off, that have not heard my fame, neither have seen my glory; and (e) they shall declare my glory
among the Gentiles.



(u) I will make these that I chose, that they perish not with the rest of the infidels: by which he
alludes to the marking of the posts of his people, whom he preserved, (<bcv=Exo 12:7>Exo 12:7</bcv>).



(x) I will scatter the rest of the Jews, who escaped destruction, into various nations.



(y) That is, Cecilia.



(z) Meaning Africa.



(a) That is Lydia, or Asia minor.



(b) Signifying the Parthians.



(c) Italy.



(d) Greece.



(e) Meaning, the apostles, disciples and others who he first chose of the Jews to preach to the
Gentiles.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:20
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:20>Isaiah 66:20</verse></h3>



And they shall bring all your (f) brethren [for] an offering to the LORD out of all nations upon (g)
horses, and in chariots, and in litters, and upon mules, and upon swift beasts, to my holy mountain
Jerusalem, saith the LORD, as the children of Israel bring an offering in a clean vessel into the
house of the LORD.



(f) That is the Gentiles, who by faith will be made the children of Abraham as you are.



(g) By which he means that no necessary means will want, when God will call the Gentiles to the
knowledge of the gospel.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:21
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:21>Isaiah 66:21</verse></h3>



And I will also take of them for (h) priests [and] for Levites, saith the LORD.



(h) That is, of the Gentiles, as he did Luke, Timothy and Titus first, and others after to preach his
word.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:22
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:22>Isaiah 66:22</verse></h3>

<page=1838>For as the new (i) heavens and the new earth, which I will make, shall remain before me, saith the
LORD, so shall your seed and your name remain.



(i) By this he signifies the kingdom of Christ in which his Church will be renewed, and where before
there were appointed seasons to sacrifice in this there will be one continual Sabbath, so that all times
and seasons will be meet.
#BCV:Isaiah 66:24
<h3><verse=Isaiah 66:24>Isaiah 66:24</verse></h3>



And they shall go forth, and look upon the (k) carcases of the men that have transgressed against
me: for their (l) worm shall not die, neither shall their fire be quenched; and they shall be an
abhorrence (m) to all flesh.



(k) As he who declared the happiness that will be within the Church for the comfort of the godly, so
does he show what horrible calamity will come to the wicked, that are out of the Church.



(l) Meaning, a continual torment of conscience, which will always gnaw them, and never permit
them to be at rest, (<bcv=Mar 9:44>Mar 9:44</bcv>).



(m) This is the just recompense for the wicked, who contemning God and his word, will be by
God's just judgments abhorred by all his creatures.

<h1>Jeremiah</h1>


<h2>Jeremiah 1</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 1:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 1:1>Jeremiah 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=1839>The (a) words of Jeremiah the son of (b) Hilkiah, of the priests that [were] in (c) Anathoth in the
land of Benjamin:



The Argument - The prophet Jeremiah born in the city of Anathoth in the country of Benjamin,
was the son of Hilkiah, whom some think to be he that found the book of the law and gave it to
Josiah. This prophet had excellent gifts from God, and most evident revelations of prophecy, so that
by the commandment of the Lord he began very young to prophecy, that is, in the thirteenth year
of Josiah, and continued eighteen years under the king, three months under Jehoahaz and under
Jehoiakim eleven years, three months under Jehoiachin, and under Zedekiah eleven years to the time
that they were carried away into Babylon. So that this time amounts to above forty years, besides the
time that he prophesied after the captivity. In this book he declares with tears and lamentations, the
destruction of Jerusalem and the captivity of the people, for their idolatry, covetousness, deceit,
cruelty, excess, rebellion and contempt of God's word, and for the consolation of the Church
reveals the just time of their deliverance. Here chiefly are to be considered three things. First the
rebellion of the wicked, who wax more stubborn and obstinate, when the prophets admonish them
most plainly of their destruction. Next how the prophets and ministers of God should not be
discouraged in their vocation, though they are persecuted and rigorously handled by the wicked, for
God's cause. Thirdly though God shows his just judgment against the wicked, yet will he ever show
himself a preserver of his Church, and when all means seem to men's judgment to be abolished,
then will he declare himself victorious in preserving his.



(a) That is, the sermons and prophecies.



(b) Who is thought to be he that found the book of the law under king Josiah, (<bcv=II Ki 22:8>Kg2 22:8</bcv>).



(c) This was a city about three miles from Jerusalem and belonged to the priests, the sons of Aaron,



(<bcv=Jos 21:18>Jos 21:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 1:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 1:2>Jeremiah 1:2</verse></h3>



To whom the (d) word of the LORD came in the days of Josiah the son of Amon king of Judah, in
the thirteenth year of his reign.



(d) This is spoken to confirm his calling and office, as he did not presume of himself to preach and
prophecy, but was called to it by God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 1:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 1:3>Jeremiah 1:3</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 1:3
<h3><verse=jer 1:3>jer 1:3</verse></h3>



year of Zedekiah the (e) son of Josiah king of Judah, to the carrying away of Jerusalem captive in
the fifth (f) month.



(e) Meaning the nephew of Josiah: for Jehoahaz was his father, who reigned but three months, and
therefore is not mentioned, nor is Jehoiakim that reigned no longer.



(f) Of the eleventh year of Zedekiah, who was also called Mattaniah, and at this time the Jews were
carried away into Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar.
#BCV:Jeremiah 1:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 1:5>Jeremiah 1:5</verse></h3>



Before I (g) formed thee in the womb I knew thee; and before thou wast born I sanctified thee, [and]
I ordained thee a prophet to the (h) nations.



(g) The scripture uses this manner of speech to declare that God has appointed his ministers to their
offices before they were born, as in (<bcv=Isa 49:1>Isa 49:1</bcv>;<bcv=Gal 1:15> Gal 1:15</bcv>).



(h) For Jeremiah did not only prophecy against the Jews, but also against the Egyptians, Babylonians,
Moabites and other nations.
#BCV:Jeremiah 1:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 1:6>Jeremiah 1:6</verse></h3>



Then said I, (i) Ah, Lord GOD! behold, I cannot speak: for I [am] a child.



(i) Considering the great judgments of God which according to his threatening would come on the
world, he was moved with a certain compassion on the one hand to pity them that would thus perish,
and on the other hand by the infirmity of man's nature, knowing how hard a thing it was to
enterprise such a charge, as in (<bcv=Isa 6:11>Isa 6:11</bcv>;<bcv=Exo 3:21> Exo 3:21</bcv>,<bcv=Exo 4:1> Exo 4:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 1:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 1:9>Jeremiah 1:9</verse></h3>



Then the LORD put forth his hand, and (k) touched my mouth. And the LORD said to me, Behold,
I have put my words in thy mouth.



(k) Which declares that God makes them meet and assures them, whom he calls to set forth his
glory, giving them all means necessary for the same, (<bcv=Exo 4:12>Exo 4:12</bcv>;<bcv=Isa 6:7> Isa 6:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 1:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 1:10>Jeremiah 1:10</verse></h3>



See, I have this day set thee over the (l) nations and over the kingdoms, to root out, and to pull down,
and to destroy, and to throw down, to build, and to plant.

<page=1841>(l) He shows what is the authority of God's true ministers, who by his word have power to bear
down whatever lifts itself up against God: and to plant and assure the humble and such as give
themselves to the obedience of God's word, (<bcv=Co2 10:4-5>Co2 10:4-5</bcv>;<bcv=Heb 4:12> Heb 4:12</bcv>), and these are the keys which
Christ has left to loose and bind, (<bcv=Mat 18:18>Mat 18:18</bcv>).

#BCV:Jeremiah 1:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 1:11>Jeremiah 1:11</verse></h3>


Moreover the word of the LORD came to me, saying, Jeremiah, what seest thou? And I said, I see a


(m) rod of an almond tree.


(m) He joins the sign with the word, for a more ample confirmation: signifying by the rod of the
almond tree, which first buds, the hasty coming of the Babylonians against the Jews.

#BCV:Jeremiah 1:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 1:13>Jeremiah 1:13</verse></h3>


And the word of the LORD came to me the second time, saying, What seest thou? And I said, I see
a boiling (n) pot; and its face [is] toward the north.


(n) Signifying that the Chaldeans and Assyrians would be as a pot to seethe the Jews who boiled in
their pleasures and lust.

#BCV:Jeremiah 1:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 1:14>Jeremiah 1:14</verse></h3>


Then the LORD said to me, Out of the (o) north an evil shall break forth upon all the inhabitants
of the land.


(o) Syria and Assyria were northward in respect to Jerusalem, which was the Chaldeans dominion.

#BCV:Jeremiah 1:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 1:16>Jeremiah 1:16</verse></h3>


And I will utter my (p) judgments against them concerning all their wickedness, who have forsaken
me, and have burned incense to other gods, and worshipped the works of their own hands.


(p) I will give them charge and power to execute my vengeance against the idolaters who have
forsaken me for their idols.

#BCV:Jeremiah 1:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 1:17>Jeremiah 1:17</verse></h3>


Thou therefore gird up thy loins, and arise, and speak to them all that I command thee: be not
dismayed at their faces, lest I (q) confound thee before them.


(q) Which declares that God's vengeance is prepared against them who do not execute their duty
faithfully, either for fear of man, or for any other reason, (<bcv=1Co 9:16>1Co 9:16</bcv>).

#BCV:Jeremiah 1:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 1:18>Jeremiah 1:18</verse></h3>

<page=1842>For, behold, I have made thee this day a fortified city, and an (r) iron pillar, and brasen walls against
the whole land, against the kings of Judah, against her princes, against her priests, and against the
people of the land.



(r) Signifying on the one hand that the more that Satan and the world rage against God's ministers,
the more present will he be to help them, (<bcv=Jos 1:5>Jos 1:5</bcv>;<bcv=Heb 13:5> Heb 13:5</bcv>) and on the other hand, that they are
utterly unfit to serve God in his Church, who are afraid and do not resist wickedness, whatever
danger depend on it, (<bcv=Isa 50:7>Isa 50:7</bcv>;<bcv=Ezek 3:8> Eze 3:8</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 2</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 2:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:2>Jeremiah 2:2</verse></h3>

<page=1843>Go and cry in the ears of Jerusalem, saying, Thus saith the LORD; I remember thee, the (a)
kindness of thy youth, the love of thy espousals, when thou wentest after me in the wilderness, (b)
in a land [that was] not sown.



(a) According to that grace and favour which I showed you from the beginning, when I first chose
you to be my people, and married you to myself, (<bcv=Ezek 16:8>Eze 16:8</bcv>).



(b) When I had delivered you out of Egypt.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:3>Jeremiah 2:3</verse></h3>



Israel [was] (c) holiness to the LORD, [and] the firstfruits of his increase: all (d) that devour him
shall offend; evil shall come upon them, saith the LORD.



(c) Chosen above all others to serve the Lord only and the first offered to the Lord of all other
nations.



(d) Whoever challenged this people, or else annoyed them, was punished.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:5>Jeremiah 2:5</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, What iniquity have your fathers found in me, that they have gone (e) far from
me, and have walked after vanity, and have become (f) vain?



(e) That is, fallen to vile idolatry.



(f) Altogether given to vanity, and are become blind and insensible as the idols that they serve.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:6>Jeremiah 2:6</verse></h3>



Neither said they, Where [is] the LORD that brought us out of the land of Egypt, that led us
through the wilderness, through a land of deserts and of pits, through a land of drought, and of (g)
the shadow of death, through a land that no man passed through, and where no man dwelt?



(g) Where for lack of all things needed for life, you could look for nothing every hour but present
death.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:7>Jeremiah 2:7</verse></h3>



And I brought you into a plentiful country, to eat the fruit of it and the goodness of it but when ye
entered, ye defiled (h) my land, and made my heritage an abomination.

<page=1844>(h) By your idolatry and wicked manners, (Psa 78:58, Psa 106:38).
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:8>Jeremiah 2:8</verse></h3>



The priests said not, (i) Where [is] the LORD? and they that handle the (k) law knew me not: the (l)
rulers also transgressed against me, and the prophets prophesied by (m) Baal, and walked after
[things that] do not profit.



(i) They did not teach the people to seek after God.



(k) As the scribes, who would have expounded the law to the people.



(l) Meaning, the princes and ministers: signifying, that all estates were corrupt.



(m) That is, spoke vain things, and brought the people from the true worship of God to serve idols:
for by Baal, which was the chief idol of the Moabites, are meant all idols.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:9>Jeremiah 2:9</verse></h3>



Wherefore I will yet (n) plead with you, saith the LORD, and with your children's children will I
plead.



(n) Signifying that he would not as he might, straightway condemn them, but shows them by evident
examples their great ingratitude that they might be ashamed and repent.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:10>Jeremiah 2:10</verse></h3>



For pass over the isles of (o) Chittim, and see; and send to (p) Kedar, and consider diligently, and see
if there is such a thing.



(o) Meaning, the Grecians and Italians.



(p) To Arabia.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:11>Jeremiah 2:11</verse></h3>



Hath a nation changed [their] gods, which [are] yet no gods? but my people have changed their (q)
glory for [that which] doth not (r) profit.



(q) That is, God who is their glory, and who makes them glorious above all other people, reproving
the Jews that they were less diligent to serve the true God, than were the idolaters to honour their
vanities.



(r) Meaning the idols who were their destruction, (<bcv=Psa 106:36>Psa 106:36</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:12>Jeremiah 2:12</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 2:12
<h3><verse=jer 2:12>jer 2:12</verse></h3>




(s) He shows that the insensible creatures abhor this vile ingratitude, and as it were tremble for fear
of God's great judgments against the same.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:13>Jeremiah 2:13</verse></h3>



For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me (t) the fountain of living waters,
[and] hewed out for themselves cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water.



(t) Signifying that when men forsake God's word, which is the fountain of life, they reject God
himself, and so fall to their own inventions, and vain confidence, and procure to themselves
destruction, (<bcv=Jon 2:8>Jon 2:8</bcv>;<bcv=Zec 10:2> Zac 10:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:14>Jeremiah 2:14</verse></h3>



[Is] Israel a (u) servant? [is] he a homeborn [slave]? why is he laid waste?



(u) Have I ordered them like servants and not like dearly beloved children? (<bcv=Exo 4:22>Exo 4:22</bcv>) therefore it is
their fault only, if the enemy spoil them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:15>Jeremiah 2:15</verse></h3>



The young (x) lions roared upon him, [and] yelled, and they made his land waste: his cities are
burned without (y) inhabitant.



(x) The Babylonians, Chaldeans, and Assyrians.



(y) Not one will be left to dwell there.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:16>Jeremiah 2:16</verse></h3>



Also the children of (z) Noph and Tahapanes have (a) broken the crown of thy head.



(z) That is, the Egyptians, for these were two great cities in Egypt.



(a) Have grievously vexed you at various times.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:17>Jeremiah 2:17</verse></h3>



Hast thou not procured this to thyself, in that thou hast forsaken the LORD thy God, when he (b)
led thee by the way?



(b) Showing that God would have still led them correctly, if they would have followed him.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:18>Jeremiah 2:18</verse></h3>

<page=1846>And now what hast thou to do in the way of (c) Egypt, to drink the waters of Sihor? or what hast
thou to do in the way of Assyria, to drink the waters of the (d) river?



(c) To seek help from man, as though God was not able enough to defend you, which is to drink
from the puddles and to leave the fountain, (<bcv=Isa 31:1>Isa 31:1</bcv>).



(d) That is, Euphrates.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:19>Jeremiah 2:19</verse></h3>



Thy own wickedness shall (e) correct thee, and thy backslidings shall reprove thee: know therefore
and see that [it is] an evil [thing] and bitter, that thou hast forsaken the LORD thy God, and that my
fear [is] not in thee, saith the Lord GOD of hosts.



(e) Meaning, that the wicked are insensible, till the punishment for their sin waken them as in (Jer
2:26;<bcv=Isa 3:9> Isa 3:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:20>Jeremiah 2:20</verse></h3>



For of old time I have broken thy yoke, [and] burst thy bands; and thou saidst, (f) I will not
transgress; when upon every high hill and under every green tree thou wanderest, playing the harlot.



(f) When I delivered you out of Egypt, (<bcv=Exo 19:8>Exo 19:8</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 5:27> Deu 5:27</bcv>;<bcv=Jos 24:16> Jos 24:16</bcv>;<bcv=Ezra 10:12> Ezr 10:12</bcv>;<bcv=Heb 8:6> Heb 8:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:22>Jeremiah 2:22</verse></h3>



For though thou shalt wash thee with (g) lye, and take thee much soap, [yet] thy iniquity is marked
before me, saith the Lord GOD.



(g) Though you use all the purifications and ceremonies of the law, you cannot escape punishment.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:23
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:23>Jeremiah 2:23</verse></h3>



How canst thou say, I am not polluted, I have not (h) gone after Baalim? see thy way in the valley,
know what thou hast done: [thou art] a swift (i) dromedary traversing her ways;



(h) Meaning that hypocrites deny that they worship the idols, but that they honour God in them, and
therefore they call their doings God's service.



(i) He compares the idolaters to these beasts, because they never cease running to and fro: for both
valleys and hills are full of their idolatry.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:24
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:24>Jeremiah 2:24</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 2:24
<h3><verse=jer 2:24>jer 2:24</verse></h3>



who can turn her away? all they that seek her will not weary themselves; in her (l) month they shall
find her.



(k) He compares the idolaters to a wild ass: for she can never be tamed nor yet wearied: for as she
runs she can take her wind at every opportunity.



(l) That is, when she is with foal, and therefore the hunters wait their time: so though you cannot be
turned back now from your idolatry, yet when your iniquity will be at the fall, God will meet with
you.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:25
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:25>Jeremiah 2:25</verse></h3>



Withhold thy foot from (m) being unshod, and thy throat from thirst: but thou saidst, There is no
hope: no; for I have loved strangers, and after them will I go.



(m) By this he warns them that they should not go into strange countries to seek help: for they
should but spend their labour, and hurt themselves, which is here meant by the bare foot and thirst,



(<bcv=Isa 57:10>Isa 57:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:26
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:26>Jeremiah 2:26</verse></h3>



As the (n) thief is ashamed when he is found, so is the house of Israel ashamed; they, their kings,
their princes, and their priests, and their prophets,



(n) As a thief will not acknowledge his fault, till he is taken with the deed, and ready to be punished,
so they will not confess their idolatry, till the plagues due to the same light on them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:27
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:27>Jeremiah 2:27</verse></h3>



Saying to a tree, Thou [art] my (o) father; and to a stone, Thou hast brought me forth: for they have
turned [their] back to me, and not [their] face: but in the time of their trouble they will say, Arise,
and save us.



(o) Meaning, that idolaters rob God of his honour: and where as he has taught to call him the father
of all flesh, they attribute this title to their idols.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:28
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:28>Jeremiah 2:28</verse></h3>



But where [are] thy gods that thou hast made for thyself ? let them arise, if they can save thee in the
time of thy trouble: for [according (p) to] the number of thy cities are thy gods, O Judah.

<page=1848>(p) You thought that your gods of blocks and stones could have helped you, because they were
many in number and present in every place: but now let us see whether either the multitude or their
presence can deliver you from my plague, (<bcv=Jer 11:13>Jer 11:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:29
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:29>Jeremiah 2:29</verse></h3>



Why will (q) ye plead with me? ye all have transgressed against me, saith the LORD.



(q) As though I did you injury in punishing you, seeing that your faults are so evident.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:30
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:30>Jeremiah 2:30</verse></h3>



In vain have I smitten your children; they have received no correction: your (r) own sword hath
devoured your prophets, like a destroying lion.



(r) That is, you have killed your prophets, that exhorted you to repentance, as Zechariah, Isaiah, etc.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:31
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:31>Jeremiah 2:31</verse></h3>



O generation, see ye the word of the LORD. Have I been a (s) wilderness to Israel? a land of
darkness? why say my people, We are lords; (t) we will come no more to thee?



(s) Have I not given them abundance of all things?



(t) But will trust in our own power and policy.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:33
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:33>Jeremiah 2:33</verse></h3>



Why trimmest thou thy way to (u) seek love? therefore hast thou also taught the wicked ones thy
ways.



(u) With strangers.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:34
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:34>Jeremiah 2:34</verse></h3>



Also in thy (x) skirts is found the blood of the souls of the poor innocents: I have not found it by
secret search, but upon all these.



(x) The prophets and the faithful are slain in every corner of your country.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:36
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:36>Jeremiah 2:36</verse></h3>



Why dost thou go about so much to change thy way? thou also shalt be ashamed of Egypt, (y) as
thou wast ashamed of Assyria.

<page=1849>(y) For the Assyrians had taken away the ten tribes out of Israel and destroyed Judah even to
Jerusalem: and the Egyptians slew Josiah, and vexed the Jews in various ways.
#BCV:Jeremiah 2:37
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 2:37>Jeremiah 2:37</verse></h3>



Yea, thou shalt go forth from him, and thy hands upon (z) thy head: for the LORD hath rejected thy
confidences, and thou shalt not prosper in them.



(z) In sign of lamentation, as in (<bcv=II Sa 13:19>Sa2 13:19</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 3</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 3:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:1>Jeremiah 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=1850>They (a) say, If a man shall put away his wife, and she shall go from him, and become another man's,
shall he return to her again? shall not that land (b) be greatly polluted? but thou hast played the
harlot with many (c) lovers; yet (d) return again to me, saith the LORD.



(a) According as it is written, (<bcv=Deu 24:4>Deu 24:4</bcv>).



(b) If he take such a one to wife again.



(c) That is, with idols, and with them whom you have put your confidence in.



(d) And I will not cast you off, but receive you, according to my mercy.
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:2>Jeremiah 3:2</verse></h3>



Lift up thy eyes to the high places, and see where thou hast not been lain with. In the ways hast thou
sat for them, as the (e) Arabian in the wilderness; and thou hast polluted the land with thy harlotry
and with thy wickedness.



(e) Who dwells in tent and waits for them that pass by to rob them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:3>Jeremiah 3:3</verse></h3>



Therefore the showers have been withheld, and there hath been no (f) latter rain; and thou hadst an



(g) harlot's forehead, thou didst refuse to be ashamed.



(f) As God threatened by his law, (<bcv=Deu 28:24>Deu 28:24</bcv>).



(g) You would never be ashamed of your acts and repent: and this impudency is common to
idolaters, who will not cease, though they are openly convicted.
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:4>Jeremiah 3:4</verse></h3>



Wilt thou not from this time cry (h) to me, My father, thou [art] the guide of my youth?



(h) He shows that the wicked in their miseries will cry to God and use outward prayer as the godly
do, but because they do not turn from their evil, they are not heard, (<bcv=Isa 58:3-4>Isa 58:3-4</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:6>Jeremiah 3:6</verse></h3>

<page=1851>The LORD said also to me in the days of Josiah the king, Hast thou seen [that] which backsliding (i)
Israel hath done? she hath gone up upon every high mountain and under every green tree, and there
hath played the harlot.



(i) Meaning the ten tribes.
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:8>Jeremiah 3:8</verse></h3>



And I saw, when for all the causes by which backsliding Israel committed adultery I had put (k) her
away, and given her a bill of divorce; yet her treacherous sister Judah feared not, but went and played
the harlot also.



(k) And gave her into the hands of the Assyrians.
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:9>Jeremiah 3:9</verse></h3>



And it came to pass through the (l) lightness of her harlotry, that she defiled the land, and
committed adultery with stones and with trees.



(l) The Hebrew word may either signify lightness and wantonness, or noise and brute.
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:10>Jeremiah 3:10</verse></h3>



And yet for all this her treacherous sister Judah hath not turned to me with (m) her whole heart, but
deceitfully, saith the LORD.



(m) Judah pretended for a time that she returned, as under Josiah and other good kings, but she was
never truly touched, or wholly reformed, as appeared when opportunity was offered by any wicked
prince.
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:11>Jeremiah 3:11</verse></h3>



And the LORD said to me, The backsliding Israel hath (n) justified herself more than treacherous
Judah.



(n) Israel has not declared herself as wicked as Judah, who yet has had more admonitions and
examples to call her to repentance.
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:12>Jeremiah 3:12</verse></h3>



Go and proclaim these words toward (o) the north, and say, Return, thou backsliding Israel, saith the
LORD; [and] I will not cause my anger to fall upon you: for I [am] merciful, saith the LORD, [and] I
will not keep [anger] for ever.

<page=1852>(o) While the Israelites were now kept in captivity by the Assyrians, to whom he promises mercy, if
they will repent.
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:13>Jeremiah 3:13</verse></h3>



Only acknowledge thy iniquity, that thou hast transgressed against the LORD thy God, and hast (p)
scattered thy ways to the strangers under every green tree, and ye have not obeyed my voice, saith
the LORD.



(p) There was no way which you did not hunt to seek after the idols, and to go on a pilgrimage.
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:16>Jeremiah 3:16</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, when ye shall be multiplied and increased in the land, in those days, saith
the LORD, they shall say no more, The (q) ark of the covenant of the LORD: neither shall it come
to mind: neither shall they remember it; neither shall they miss [it]; neither shall [that] be done any
more.



(q) This is to be understood of the coming of Christ: for then they will not seek the Lord by
ceremonies, and all figures will cease.
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:17>Jeremiah 3:17</verse></h3>



At that time they shall call Jerusalem (r) the throne of the LORD; and all the nations shall be
gathered to it, to the name of the LORD, to Jerusalem: neither shall they walk any more after the
imagination of their evil heart.



(r) Meaning, the Church, where the Lord will be present to the world's end, (<bcv=Mat 28:20>Mat 28:20</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:18>Jeremiah 3:18</verse></h3>



In those days the house of Judah shall walk with the house of Israel, and they shall come together
from the land of the (s) north to the land that I have given for an inheritance to your fathers.



(s) Where they are now in captivity.
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:20>Jeremiah 3:20</verse></h3>



Surely [as] a wife treacherously departeth from her (t) husband, so have ye dealt treacherously with
me, O house of Israel, saith the LORD.



(t) The Hebrew word signifies a friend or companion, and here may be taken for a husband, as it is
used also in (<bcv=Hos 3:1>Hos 3:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:21>Jeremiah 3:21</verse></h3>


<page=1853>(u) A voice was heard upon the high places, weeping [and] supplications of the children of Israel:
for they have perverted their way, [and] they have forgotten the LORD their God.



(u) Signifying, that God, whom they had forsaken, would bring their enemies to them, who would
lead them captive, and make them to cry and lament.
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:22>Jeremiah 3:22</verse></h3>



Return, ye backsliding children, [and] I will heal your backslidings. (x) Behold, we come to thee; for
thou [art] the LORD our God.



(x) This is spoken in the person of Israel to the shame of Judah, who stayed so long to turn to God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:24
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:24>Jeremiah 3:24</verse></h3>



For shame hath devoured the labour of our (y) fathers from our youth; their flocks and their herds,
their sons and their daughters.



(y) For their idolatry God's vengeance has light on them and theirs.
#BCV:Jeremiah 3:25
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 3:25>Jeremiah 3:25</verse></h3>



We lie down in our shame, and our confusion covereth us: (z) for we have sinned against the LORD
our God, we and our fathers, from our youth even to this day, and have not obeyed the voice of the
LORD our God.



(z) They justify not themselves, or say that they would follow their fathers, but condemn their
wicked doings and desire forgiveness for the same, as in (<bcv=Ezra 9:7>Ezr 9:7</bcv>;<bcv=Psa 106:6> Psa 106:6</bcv>;<bcv=Isa 64:6> Isa 64:6</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 4</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 4:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:1>Jeremiah 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=1854>If thou wilt return, O Israel, saith the LORD, (a) return to me: and if thou wilt put away thy
abominations out of my sight, then shalt thou not be removed.



(a) That is, wholly and without hypocrisy, not dissembling to turn and serve God as they do who
serve him by halves, (<bcv=Hos 7:16>Hos 7:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:2>Jeremiah 4:2</verse></h3>



And thou shalt (b) swear, The LORD liveth, in truth, in judgment, and in righteousness; and the
nations shall bless themselves in him, and in him shall they glory.



(b) You will detest the name of idols, (<bcv=Psa 16:4>Psa 16:4</bcv>) and will with reverence swear by the living God,
when your oath may advance God's glory, and profit others: and here by swearing he means the true
religion of God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:3>Jeremiah 4:3</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD to the men of Judah and Jerusalem, Break up (c) your fallow ground, and
sow not among thorns.



(c) He wills them to pluck up the impiety and wicked affection and worldly respects out of their
heart, that the true seed of God's word may be sown in it, (<bcv=Hos 10:12>Hos 10:12</bcv>) and this is the true
circumcision of the heart, (<bcv=Deu 10:16>Deu 10:16</bcv>;<bcv=Rom 2:29> Rom 2:29</bcv>;<bcv=Col 2:11> Col 2:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:5>Jeremiah 4:5</verse></h3>




(d) Declare ye in Judah, and proclaim in Jerusalem; and say, Blow ye the trumpet in the land: cry,
confirm, and say, Assemble yourselves, and let us go into the fortified cities.



(d) He warns them of the great dangers that will come on them by the Chaldeans, unless they repent
and turn to the Lord.
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:6>Jeremiah 4:6</verse></h3>



Set up the standard toward Zion: (e) retire, stay not: for I will bring evil from the north, and a great
destruction.



(e) He speaks this to admonish them of the great danger when every man will prepare to save
himself, but it will be too late, (<bcv=II Ki 25:4>Kg2 25:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:7>Jeremiah 4:7</verse></h3>

<page=1855>The (f) lion is come up from his thicket, and the destroyer of the Gentiles is on his way; he is gone
forth from his place to make thy land desolate; thy cities shall be laid waste, without an inhabitant.



(f) Meaning Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, (<bcv=II Ki 24:1>Kg2 24:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:9>Jeremiah 4:9</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass at that day, saith the LORD, [that] the heart of the king shall perish, and
the heart of the princes; and the priests shall be astonished, and the (g) prophets shall wonder.



(g) That is, the false prophets who still prophesied peace and security.
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:10>Jeremiah 4:10</verse></h3>



Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! surely thou hast greatly (h) deceived this people and Jerusalem, saying,
Ye shall have peace; though the sword reacheth to the soul.



(h) By the false prophets who promised peace and tranquillity: and thus you have punished their
rebellious stubbornness by causing them to hearken to lies who would not believe your truth, <bcv=1Ki 22:23>(Kg1 22:23;</bcv><bcv=Ezek 14:9> Eze 14:9</bcv>; <bcv=2th 2:11>Th2 2:11).</bcv>

#BCV:Jeremiah 4:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:11>Jeremiah 4:11</verse></h3>

At that time shall it be said to this people and to Jerusalem, A dry (i) wind of the high places in the
wilderness toward the daughter of my people, not (k) to fan, nor to cleanse,



(i) The north wind by which he means Nebuchadnezzar.



(k) But to carry away both corn and chaff.
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:13>Jeremiah 4:13</verse></h3>



Behold, he shall come up as (l) clouds, and his chariots [shall be] as a whirlwind: his horses are
swifter than eagles. (m) Woe to us! for we are laid waste.



(l) Meaning that Nebuchadnezzar would come as suddenly as a cloud that is carried with the wind.



(m) This is spoken in the person of all the people, who in their affliction would cry thus.
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:15>Jeremiah 4:15</verse></h3>



For a voice declareth from (n) Dan, and proclaimeth affliction from mount (o) Ephraim.

<page=1856>(n) Which was a city in the utmost border of Israel north toward Babylon.



(o) Which was in the middle between Dan and Jerusalem.
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:17>Jeremiah 4:17</verse></h3>



As keepers of a (p) field, they are against her on all sides; because she hath been rebellious against
me, saith the LORD.



(p) Who keep the fruits so straitly, that nothing can come in or out so would the Babylonians
compass Judah.,
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:19>Jeremiah 4:19</verse></h3>



My distress, my (q) distress! I am pained at my very heart; my heart maketh a noise in me; I cannot
hold my peace, because thou hast heard, O my soul, the sound of the trumpet, the alarm of war.



(q) He shows that the true ministers are lively touched with the calamities of the Church, so that all
the parts of their body feel the grief of their heart, even though with zeal to God's glory they
pronounce his judgments against the people.
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:20>Jeremiah 4:20</verse></h3>



Destruction upon destruction is cried; for the whole land is laid waste: suddenly are my (r) tents
ruined, [and] my curtains in a moment.



(r) Meaning, the cities which were as easily cast down as a tent.
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:22>Jeremiah 4:22</verse></h3>



For my people [are] foolish, they have not known me; they [are] silly children, and they have no
understanding: (s) they [are] wise to do evil, but to do good they have no knowledge.



(s) Their wisdom and policy tend to their own destruction and pulls them from God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:23
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:23>Jeremiah 4:23</verse></h3>



I beheld the earth, and, lo, [it was] without form, and (t) void; and the heavens, and they [had] no
light.



(t) By this manner of speech he shows the horrible destruction that would come on the land and
also condemns the obstinacy of the people who do not repent at the fear of these terrible kings,
seeing that the insensible creatures are moved therewith, as if the order of nature would be changed,



(<bcv=Isa 13:10>Isa 13:10</bcv>,<bcv=Isa 24:23> Isa 24:23</bcv>;<bcv=Ezek 32:7> Eze 32:7</bcv>;<bcv=Joel 2:31> Joe 2:31</bcv>,<bcv=Joel 3:15> Joe 3:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:27
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:27>Jeremiah 4:27</verse></h3>

<page=1857>For thus hath the LORD said, The whole land shall be desolate; yet will I (u) not make a full end.



(u) But for his mercies sake, he will reserve himself a residue to be his Church, and to praise him in
earth, (<bcv=Jer 5:18>Jer 5:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:30
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:30>Jeremiah 4:30</verse></h3>



And [when] thou [art] laid waste, what wilt thou do? Though thou (x) clothest thyself with crimson,
though thou deckest thee with ornaments of gold, though thou enlarge thy eyes with painting, in
vain shalt thou make thyself fair; [thy] lovers will despise thee, they will seek thy life.



(x) Neither your ceremonies nor rich gifts will deliver you.
#BCV:Jeremiah 4:31
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 4:31>Jeremiah 4:31</verse></h3>



For I have heard a voice as of a woman in travail, [and] the anguish as of her that bringeth forth her
first child, the voice of the daughter of Zion, [that] bewaileth herself, [that] spreadeth her hands,
[saying], (y) Woe [is] me now! for my soul is wearied because of murderers.



(y) As the prophets were moved to pity the destruction of their people, so they declared it to the
people to move them to repentance, (<bcv=Isa 22:4>Isa 22:4</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 9:1> Jer 9:1</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 5</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 5:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:1>Jeremiah 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=1858>Run ye to and fro through the streets of Jerusalem, and see now, and know, and seek in its broad
places, if ye can find a man, if there is [any] that executeth judgment, that seeketh the truth; and I
will pardon (a) it.



(a) That is, the city.
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:2>Jeremiah 5:2</verse></h3>



And though they say, The (b) LORD liveth; surely they swear falsely.



(b) Though they pretend religion and holiness, yet all is but hypocrisy: for under this kind of
swearing is contained the true religion.
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:3>Jeremiah 5:3</verse></h3>



O LORD, [are] not thy eyes upon the (c) truth? thou hast (d) stricken them, but they have not
grieved; thou hast consumed them, [but] they have refused to receive correction: they have made
their faces harder than a rock; they have refused to return.



(c) Do you not love uprightness and faithful dealing?



(d) You have often punished them, but all is in vain, (<bcv=Isa 9:13>Isa 9:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:5>Jeremiah 5:5</verse></h3>



I will go to the (e) great men, and will speak to them; for they have known the way of the LORD,
[and] the judgment of their God: but these have altogether broken the yoke, [and] burst the bonds.



(e) He speaks this to the reproach of them who would govern and teach others, and yet are farther
out of the way than the simple people.
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:6>Jeremiah 5:6</verse></h3>



Wherefore a (f) lion from the forest shall slay them, [and] a wolf of the evenings shall spoil them, a
leopard shall watch over their cities: every one that goeth out from there shall be torn in pieces:
because their transgressions are many, [and] their backslidings are increased.



(f) Meaning, Nebuchadnezzar and his army.
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:7>Jeremiah 5:7</verse></h3>

<page=1859>How shall I pardon thee for this? thy children have forsaken me, and (g) sworn by [them that are] no
gods: when I had fed them to the full, then they committed adultery, and assembled themselves by
troops in the harlots' houses.



(g) He shows that to swear by anything other than by God is to forsake him.
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:10>Jeremiah 5:10</verse></h3>




(h) Go ye up upon her walls, and destroy; but make not a full end: (i) take away her battlements; for
they [are] not the LORD'S.



(h) He commands the Babylonians and enemies to destroy them.



(i) Read (<bcv=Jer 4:27>Jer 4:27</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:12>Jeremiah 5:12</verse></h3>



They have (k) lied about the LORD, and said, [It is] not he; neither shall evil come upon us; neither
shall we see sword nor famine:



(k) Because they gave no credit to the words of his prophets, as in (<bcv=Isa 28:15>Isa 28:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:13>Jeremiah 5:13</verse></h3>



And the prophets shall become (l) wind, and the word [is] (m) not in them: thus shall it be done to
them.



(l) Their words will be of no effect, but vain.



(m) They are not sent from the Lord, and therefore that which they threaten to us will come on
them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:14>Jeremiah 5:14</verse></h3>



Wherefore thus saith the LORD God of hosts, Because ye speak this word, behold, I will make my
words in (n) thy mouth fire, and this people wood, and it shall devour them.



(n) Meaning, Jeremiah.
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:15>Jeremiah 5:15</verse></h3>



Lo, I will bring a nation upon you (o) from far, O house of Israel, saith the LORD: it [is] a mighty
nation, it [is] an ancient nation, a nation whose language thou knowest not, neither understandest
what they say.

<page=1860>(o) That is, the Babylonians and Chaldeans.
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:16>Jeremiah 5:16</verse></h3>



Their quiver [is] as an (p) open sepulchre, they [are] all mighty men.



(p) Who will kill many with their arrows.
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:18>Jeremiah 5:18</verse></h3>



Nevertheless in those days, saith the LORD, I will not make a full end with (q) you.



(q) Here the Lord declares his unspeakable favour toward his Church, as in (<bcv=Jer 4:27>Jer 4:27</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:19>Jeremiah 5:19</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, when ye shall say, Why doeth the LORD our God all these [things] to us?
then shalt (r) thou answer them, As ye have forsaken me, and served foreign gods in your land, so
shall ye serve strangers in a land [that is] not yours.



(r) Meaning, the prophet Jeremiah.
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:25
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:25>Jeremiah 5:25</verse></h3>



Your (s) iniquities have turned away these [things], and your sins have withheld good [things] from
you.



(s) If there is any stay, that we receive not God's blessings in abundance, we must consider that it is
for our own iniquities, (<bcv=Isa 59:1-2>Isa 59:1-2</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:28
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:28>Jeremiah 5:28</verse></h3>



They have become fat, they shine: yea, they exceed the deeds of the wicked: they judge not the cause,
the cause of the fatherless, yet they (t) prosper; and the right of the needy do they not judge.



(t) They feel not the plague of God for it.
#BCV:Jeremiah 5:31
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 5:31>Jeremiah 5:31</verse></h3>



The (u) prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love [to
have it] so: and what will ye do in its end?



(u) Meaning that there could be nothing but disorder, where the ministers were wicked and corrupt.

<h2>Jeremiah 6</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 6:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:1>Jeremiah 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=1861>O ye children of (a) Benjamin, gather yourselves to flee out of the midst of Jerusalem, and blow the
trumpet in (b) Tekoa, and set up a sign of fire in (c) Bethhaccerem: for evil appeareth out of the
north, and great destruction.



(a) He speaks to them chiefly because they should take heed by the example of their brethren the
other half of their tribe, who were now carried away prisoners.



(b) Which was a city in Judah, six miles from Bethlehem, (<bcv=2Ch 11:6>Ch2 11:6</bcv>).



(c) Read (<bcv=Neh 3:14>Neh 3:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:2>Jeremiah 6:2</verse></h3>



I have likened the daughter of Zion to (d) a comely and delicate [woman].



(d) I have intreated her gently, and given her abundance of all things.
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:3>Jeremiah 6:3</verse></h3>



The shepherds with their flocks (e) shall come to her; they shall pitch [their] tents against her on
every side; they shall feed every one in his place.



(e) She will be so destroyed that the sheep may be fed in her.
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:4>Jeremiah 6:4</verse></h3>




(f) Prepare ye war against her; arise, and let us go up at noon. Woe to us! for the day departeth, for
the shadows of the evening are lengthened.



(f) He speaks this in the person of the Babylonians, who complain that the time fails them before
they have brought their enterprises to pass.
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:7>Jeremiah 6:7</verse></h3>



As a fountain casteth out her waters, so she casteth out her wickedness: (g) violence and destruction
is heard in her; before me continually [are] grief and wounds.



(g) He shows the reason why it would be destroyed, and how it comes from themselves.
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:8>Jeremiah 6:8</verse></h3>

<page=1862>Be thou instructed, O (h) Jerusalem, lest my soul depart from thee; lest I make thee desolate, a land
not inhabited.



(h) He warns them to amend by his correction, and turn to him by repentance.
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:9>Jeremiah 6:9</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD of hosts, They shall thoroughly glean the remnant of Israel as a vine: turn (i)
back thy hand as a grapegatherer into the baskets.



(i) He exhorts the Babylonians to be diligent to search out all and to leave none.
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:10>Jeremiah 6:10</verse></h3>



To whom shall I speak, and give warning, that they may hear? behold, their ear [is] (k) uncircumcised,
and they cannot hearken: behold, the word of the LORD is to them a reproach; they have no delight
in it.



(k) They delight to hear vain things, and to shut up their ears to true doctrine.
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:11>Jeremiah 6:11</verse></h3>



Therefore I am full of the fury of the LORD; I am weary with holding in: (l) I will pour it out upon
the (m) children abroad, and upon the assembly of young men together: for even the husband with
the wife shall be taken, the aged with [him that is] full of days.



(l) As the Lord had given him his word to be as a fire of his indignation to burn the wicked, (<bcv=Jer 5:14>Jer 5:14</bcv>)
so he kindles it now when he sees that all remedies are past.



(m) No one will be spared.
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:14>Jeremiah 6:14</verse></h3>



They have healed also the hurt [of the daughter] of my people slightly, saying, (n) Peace, peace;
when [there is] no peace.



(n) When the people began to fear God's judgments, the false prophets comforted them by
flatterings, showing that God would send peace and not war.
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:16>Jeremiah 6:16</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the (o) old paths, where [is] the
good way, and walk in it, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk [in it].

<page=1863>(o) In which the patriarchs and prophets walked, directed by the word of God: signifying that there
is no true way, but that which God prescribes.
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:17>Jeremiah 6:17</verse></h3>



Also I set (p) watchmen over you, [saying], Hearken to the sound of the trumpet. But they said, We
will not hearken.



(p) Prophets who would warn you of the dangers that were at hand.
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:18>Jeremiah 6:18</verse></h3>



Therefore hear, ye (q) nations, and know, O congregation, what [is] among them.



(q) God takes all the world to witness and the insensible creatures of the ingratitude of the Jews.
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:20>Jeremiah 6:20</verse></h3>



To what purpose cometh there to me (r) incense from Sheba, and the sweet cane from a distant
country? your burnt offerings [are] not acceptable, nor your sacrifices sweet to me.



(r) Read (<bcv=Isa 1:11>Isa 1:11</bcv>;<bcv=Amos 5:21> Amo 5:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:22>Jeremiah 6:22</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, Behold, a people cometh from the (s) north country, and a great nation shall
be raised from the sides of the earth.



(s) From Babylon by Dan, which was north of Jerusalem.
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:24
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:24>Jeremiah 6:24</verse></h3>



We have heard the report of it: our hands become (t) feeble: anguish hath taken hold of us, [and]
pain, as of a woman in travail.



(t) For fear of the enemy: he speaks this in the person of the Jews.
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:27
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:27>Jeremiah 6:27</verse></h3>



I have set (u) thee [for] a tower [and] a fortress among my people, that thou mayest know and try
their way.



(u) Meaning, Jeremiah, whom God had appointed to try out the godly from the wicked, as a founder
does the pure metal from the dross.
#BCV:Jeremiah 6:29
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 6:29>Jeremiah 6:29</verse></h3>

<page=1864>The (x) bellows is burned, the lead is consumed by the fire; the founder melteth in vain: for the
wicked are not plucked away.



(x) All the pain and labour that has been taken with them is lost.

<h2>Jeremiah 7</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 7:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 7:4>Jeremiah 7:4</verse></h3>

<page=1865>Trust ye not in (a) lying words, saying, The temple of the LORD, The temple of the LORD, The
temple of the LORD, [are] these.



(a) Believe not the false prophets, who say that for the temple's sake, and the sacrifices there the
Lord will preserve you, and so nourish you in your sin, and vain confidence.
#BCV:Jeremiah 7:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 7:7>Jeremiah 7:7</verse></h3>



Then (b) will I cause you to dwell in this place, in the land that I gave to your fathers, for ever and
ever.



(b) God shows on what condition he made his promise to this temple that they would be a holy
people to him, as he would be a faithful God to them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 7:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 7:11>Jeremiah 7:11</verse></h3>



Is this house, which is called by my name, become (c) a den of robbers in your eyes? Behold, even I
have seen [it], saith the LORD.



(c) As thieves hidden in holes and dens think themselves safe, so when you are in my temple, you
think to be covered with the holiness of it, and that I cannot see your wickedness, (<bcv=Mat 21:13>Mat 21:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 7:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 7:12>Jeremiah 7:12</verse></h3>



But go ye now to my place which [was] in Shiloh, (d) where I set my name at the first, and see what I
did to it for the wickedness of my people Israel.



(d) Because they depended so much on the temple, which was for his promise, that he would be
present and defend them where the ark was, he sends them to God's judgments against Shiloh,
where the ark had remained about 300 years, and after was taken, the priests slain, and the people
miserably discomfited, (<bcv=I Sa 4:11>Sa1 4:11</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 26:6> Jer 26:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 7:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 7:13>Jeremiah 7:13</verse></h3>



And now, because ye have done all these works, saith the LORD, and I spoke to you, (e) rising early
and speaking, but ye heard not; and I called you, but (f) ye answered not;



(e) That is, I never ceased to warn you, as in (<bcv=Isa 65:2>Isa 65:2</bcv>;<bcv=Pro 1:23> Pro 1:23</bcv>).

<page=1866>(f) He shows the only remedy to redress our faults: to allow God to lead us in the way, and to obey
his calling, (<bcv=Isa 66:4>Isa 66:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 7:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 7:15>Jeremiah 7:15</verse></h3>



And I will cast (g) you out of my sight, as I have cast out all your brethren, [even] the whole seed of
Ephraim.



(g) I will send you into captivity as I have done Ephraim, that is, the ten tribes.
#BCV:Jeremiah 7:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 7:16>Jeremiah 7:16</verse></h3>



Therefore (h) pray not thou for this people, neither lift up cry nor prayer for them, neither make
intercession to me: for I will not hear thee.



(h) To assure them that God had determined with himself to punish their wickedness, he shows the
prayer of the godly cannot help them, while they remain in their obstinacy against God, and will not
use the means that he uses to call them to repentance, (<bcv=Jer 11:14>Jer 11:14</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 14:11> Jer 14:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 7:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 7:18>Jeremiah 7:18</verse></h3>



The children gather wood, and the fathers kindle the fire, and the women knead dough, to make
cakes to (i) the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings to other gods, that they may
provoke me to anger.



(i) That is, they sacrifice to the sun, moon and stars, which they called the queen of heaven, (Jer
44:17;<bcv=2Ki 23:5> Kg2 23:5).</bcv>
#BCV:Jeremiah 7:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 7:22>Jeremiah 7:22</verse></h3>



For (k) I spoke not to your fathers, nor commanded them in the day that I brought them out of the
land of Egypt, concerning burnt offerings or sacrifices:



(k) Showing that it was not his chief purpose and intent, that they should offer sacrifices, but that
they should regard, why they were ordained: that is, to be joined to the word as seals and
confirmations of remissions of sins in Christ: for without the word they were vain and unprofitable.
#BCV:Jeremiah 7:25
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 7:25>Jeremiah 7:25</verse></h3>



Since the day that your fathers came forth from the land of Egypt to (l) this day I have even sent to
you all my servants the prophets, daily (m) rising early and sending [them]:



(l) Which was about fourteen hundred years.

<page=1867>(m) Read (Jer 7:13).
#BCV:Jeremiah 7:27
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 7:27>Jeremiah 7:27</verse></h3>



Therefore thou shalt speak all these words to them; but they (n) will not hearken to thee: thou shalt
also call to them; but they will not answer thee.



(n) By which he shows that the pastors should not leave their flocks in their obstinacy, for the Lord
will use the means of his servants to make the wicked more faulty and to prove his.
#BCV:Jeremiah 7:29
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 7:29>Jeremiah 7:29</verse></h3>



Cut off thy (o) hair, [O Jerusalem], and cast [it] away, and take up a lamentation on high places; for
the LORD hath rejected and forsaken the generation of his (p) wrath.



(o) In sign of mourning, as in (<bcv=Job 1:20>Job 1:20</bcv>).



(p) Against whom he had just opportunity to pour out his wrath (<bcv=Mic 1:6>Mic 1:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 7:31
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 7:31>Jeremiah 7:31</verse></h3>



And they have built the high places of (q) Tophet, which [is] in the valley of the son of Hinnom, to
burn their sons and their daughters in the fire; which I (r) commanded [them] not, neither came it
into my heart.



(q) Of Topheth, read (<bcv=II Ki 23:10>Kg2 23:10</bcv>).



(r) But commanded the opposite, as in (<bcv=Lev 18:21>Lev 18:21</bcv>,<bcv=Lev 20:3> Lev 20:3</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 18:10> Deu 18:10</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 8</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 8:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:1>Jeremiah 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=1868>At that time, saith the LORD, they shall bring the bones of the kings of Judah, and the bones of his
princes, and the bones of the priests, and the bones of the prophets, and the bones of the
inhabitants of Jerusalem, out of their (a) graves:



(a) The enemy for greediness will rifle your graves and lay you before those idols, who in your life
you worshipped, to see if they can help you.
#BCV:Jeremiah 8:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:3>Jeremiah 8:3</verse></h3>



And death shall be chosen (b) rather than life by all the remnant of them that remain of this evil
family, who remain in all the places where I have driven them, saith the LORD of hosts.



(b) Because of the afflictions that they will feel through God's judgments.
#BCV:Jeremiah 8:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:4>Jeremiah 8:4</verse></h3>



Moreover thou shalt say to them, Thus saith the LORD; Shall they (c) fall, and not rise? shall he turn
away, and not return?



(c) Is there no hope that they will return?
#BCV:Jeremiah 8:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:6>Jeremiah 8:6</verse></h3>



I hearkened and heard, [but] they spoke not aright: no man repented of his wickedness, saying, What
have I done? every (d) one turned to his course, as the horse rusheth to the battle.



(d) They are full of hypocrisy, and everyone follows his own fantasy without any consideration.
#BCV:Jeremiah 8:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:7>Jeremiah 8:7</verse></h3>



Yea, the stork in the heaven knoweth her appointed times; and the turtle and the crane and the
swallow observe the time of their coming; but my people know not the (e) judgment of the LORD.



(e) He accuses them in that they are more ignorant of God's judgments, than these birds are of their
appointed seasons to discern the cold and heat.
#BCV:Jeremiah 8:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:8>Jeremiah 8:8</verse></h3>



How do ye say, We [are] wise, and the law of the LORD [is] with us? Lo, certainly in vain he hath
made [it]; (f) the pen of the scribes [is] in vain.

<page=1869>(f) The law does not profit you neither need it to have been written for all that you have learned by it.
#BCV:Jeremiah 8:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:9>Jeremiah 8:9</verse></h3>



The (g) wise [men] are ashamed, they are dismayed and taken: lo, they have rejected the word of the
LORD; and what wisdom [is] in them?



(g) They who seem wise may be ashamed of their ignorance for all wisdom consists in God's word.
#BCV:Jeremiah 8:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:11>Jeremiah 8:11</verse></h3>



For they have healed the hurt of the daughter of my people slightly, saying, (h) Peace, peace; when
[there is] no peace.



(h) See<bcv=Jer 6:14> Jer 6:14</bcv>
#BCV:Jeremiah 8:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:14>Jeremiah 8:14</verse></h3>



Why do we sit still? (i) assemble yourselves, and let us enter into the fortified cities, and let us be
silent there: for the LORD our God hath put us to silence, and given us water of (k) gall to drink,
because we have sinned against the LORD.



(i) He speaks in the person of the people, who when the enemy comes will turn about to hide
themselves and acknowledge that it is God's hand.



(k) That is, has brought us into extreme affliction, and thus they will not attribute this plague to
fortune, but to God's just judgment, (<bcv=Jer 9:15>Jer 9:15</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 23:15> Jer 23:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 8:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:16>Jeremiah 8:16</verse></h3>



The snorting of his horses was heard from (l) Dan: the whole land trembled at the sound of the
neighing of his strong ones; for they have come, and have devoured the land, and all that is in it; the
city, and those that dwell in it.



(l) See<bcv=Jer 4:15> Jer 4:15</bcv>
#BCV:Jeremiah 8:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:17>Jeremiah 8:17</verse></h3>



For, behold, I will (m) send serpents, cockatrices, among you, which [will] not [be] charmed, and
they shall bite you, saith the LORD.



(m) God threatens to send the Babylonians among them who will utterly destroy them in such sort,
as by no means they will escape.
#BCV:Jeremiah 8:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:18>Jeremiah 8:18</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 8:18
<h3><verse=jer 8:18>jer 8:18</verse></h3>




(n) Read (<bcv=Jer 4:19>Jer 4:19</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 8:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:19>Jeremiah 8:19</verse></h3>



Behold the voice of the cry of the daughter of my people because of them that dwell in a distant
country: [Is] not the LORD in Zion? [is] not her king in her? Why (o) have they provoked me to
anger with their graven images, [and] with foreign vanities?



(o) Thus the Lord speaks.
#BCV:Jeremiah 8:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:20>Jeremiah 8:20</verse></h3>



The (p) harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved.



(p) The people wonder that they have for so long a time looked for comfort in vain.
#BCV:Jeremiah 8:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:21>Jeremiah 8:21</verse></h3>



For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I (q) hurt; I am black; astonishment hath taken hold
on me.



(q) The prophet speaks this.
#BCV:Jeremiah 8:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 8:22>Jeremiah 8:22</verse></h3>



[Is there] no balm (r) in Gilead; [is there] no physician there? why then is not the health of the
daughter of my people recovered?



(r) Meaning,that no man's help or means could save them: for in Gilead was precious balm, (<bcv=Jer 46:11>Jer 46:11</bcv>)
or else deriding the vain confidence of the people, who looked to their priests for help, who would
have been the physicians of their soul, and dwelt at Gilead, (<bcv=Hos 6:8>Hos 6:8</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 9</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 9:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:1>Jeremiah 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=1871>O that my head were (a) waters, and my eyes a fountain of tears, that I might weep day and night for
the slain of the daughter of my people!



(a) The prophet shows the great compassion that he had toward this people, seeing that he could
never sufficiently lament the destruction that he saw to hang over them, which is a special note to
discern the true pastors from the hirelings. See<bcv=Jer 4:19> Jer 4:19</bcv>
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:2>Jeremiah 9:2</verse></h3>



O that I had in the wilderness a (b) lodging place of wayfaring men; that I might leave my people,
and go from them! for they [are] all (c) adulterers, an assembly of treacherous men.



(b) He shows that there was more peace and greater safety for him to dwell among the wild beasts
than among this wicked people except that God has given him this charge.



(c) Utterly turned from God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:3>Jeremiah 9:3</verse></h3>



And they bend their tongues [like] their bow [for] (d) lies: but they are not valiant for the truth upon
the earth; for they proceed from evil to evil, and they know not me, saith the LORD.



(d) To belie and slander their neighbours.
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:4>Jeremiah 9:4</verse></h3>



Take ye heed every one of his neighbour, and trust ye not in any (e) brother: for every brother will
utterly supplant, and every neighbour will walk with slanders.



(e) Meaning, that all were corrupt, and none could find an honest man.
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:5>Jeremiah 9:5</verse></h3>



And they will deceive every one his neighbour, and will not speak the truth: they (f) have taught their
tongue to speak lies, [and] weary themselves to commit iniquity.



(f) They have so practised deceit, that they cannot forsake it.
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:6>Jeremiah 9:6</verse></h3>

<page=1872>Thy habitation [is] in the midst of deceit; (g) through deceit they refuse to know me, saith the
LORD.



(g) They would rather have forsaken God than left their wicked trade.
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:7>Jeremiah 9:7</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts, Behold, I will (h) melt them, and try them; for how shall I
do for the daughter of my people?



(h) With the fire of affliction.
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:10>Jeremiah 9:10</verse></h3>



For the (i) mountains will I take up a weeping and wailing, and for the habitations of the wilderness
a lamentation, because they are burned up, so that none can pass through [them]; neither can [men]
hear the voice of the cattle; both the fowl of the heavens and the beast have fled; they are gone.



(i) Signifying that all the places about Jerusalem would be destroyed.
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:12>Jeremiah 9:12</verse></h3>



Who [is] the (k) wise man, that may understand this? and [who is he] to whom the mouth of the
LORD hath spoken, that he may declare it, for what the land perisheth [and] is burned up like a
wilderness, that none passeth through?



(k) Meaning that they are all without sense and understanding and that God has taken his spirit from
them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:14>Jeremiah 9:14</verse></h3>



But have walked after the imagination of their own heart, and after Baalim, which (l) their fathers
taught them:



(l) He shows that the children cannot excuse themselves by their fathers: for both father and child if
they are wicked will perish.
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:15>Jeremiah 9:15</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will feed them, [even] this
people, with wormwood, and give them water of gall (m) to drink.



(m) Read (<bcv=Jer 8:14>Jer 8:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:17>Jeremiah 9:17</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 9:17
<h3><verse=jer 9:17>jer 9:17</verse></h3>



and send for skilful [women], that they may come:



(n) Seeing you cannot lament your own sins, call for those foolish women, whom of a superstition
you have to lament for the dead, that they by their feigned tears may provoke you to some sorrow.
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:19>Jeremiah 9:19</verse></h3>



For a voice of wailing is heard out of Zion, How are we laid waste! we are greatly confounded,
because we have forsaken the land, because our dwellings (o) have cast [us] out.



(o) As though they were weary of us, because of our iniquities, (<bcv=Lev 18:28>Lev 18:28</bcv>,<bcv=Lev 20:22> Lev 20:22</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:20>Jeremiah 9:20</verse></h3>



Yet hear the word of the LORD, O ye women, and let your ear receive the word of his mouth, and



(p) teach your daughters wailing, and every one her neighbour lamentation.



(p) He derides the superstition of the women who made an art of mourning, and taught to weep
with feigned tears.
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:21>Jeremiah 9:21</verse></h3>



For death hath come up into our (q) windows, [and] hath entered into our palaces, to cut off the
children from outside, [and] the young men from the streets.



(q) Signifying that there is no means to deliver the wicked from God's judgments: but when they
think to be most sure, and most far off, then they are soonest taken.
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:23
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:23>Jeremiah 9:23</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, Let not the (r) wise [man] glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty [man]
glory in his might, let not the rich [man] glory in his riches:



(r) As none can save himself by his own labour, or any worldly means, he shows that it is vain to put
our trust in it, but that we trust in the Lord, and rejoice in him, who only can deliver.
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:24
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:24>Jeremiah 9:24</verse></h3>



But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I [am] the LORD
who (s) exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these [things] I
delight, saith the LORD.

<page=1874>(s) These three points are necessary to know correctly his mercy, in which consists our salvation: his
judgment, which he executes continually against the wicked, and his justice, by which he defends and
maintains the faithful.
#BCV:Jeremiah 9:25
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 9:25>Jeremiah 9:25</verse></h3>



Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will punish all [them who are] (t) circumcised with
the uncircumcised;



(t) Meaning, both Jews and Gentiles, as in this next verse he shows the cause, (<bcv=Jer 4:4>Jer 4:4</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 10</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 10:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:2>Jeremiah 10:2</verse></h3>

<page=1875>Thus saith the LORD, Learn not the way of the nations, and be not dismayed at the (a) signs of
heaven; for the nations are dismayed at them.



(a) God forbids his people to give credit or fear the constellations and conjunctions of stars and
planets which have no power of themselves but are governed by him, and their secret motions and
influences are not known to man and therefore there can be no certain judgment of it, (<bcv=Deu 18:9>Deu 18:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 10:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:3>Jeremiah 10:3</verse></h3>



For the (b) customs of the people [are] vain: for [one] cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of
the hands of the workman, with the axe.



(b) Meaning not only in the observation of the stars, but their laws and ceremonies by which they
confirm their idolatry, which is forbidden, (<bcv=Deu 12:30>Deu 12:30</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 10:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:4>Jeremiah 10:4</verse></h3>



They deck it (c) with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it may not
move.



(c) The prophets use thus plainly and simply to set forth the vile absurdity of the idolaters that men
might learn to be ashamed of that to which their corrupt nature is most subject, (<bcv=Isa 44:12>Isa 44:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 10:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:6>Jeremiah 10:6</verse></h3>



Forasmuch as [there is] none like thee, O LORD; (d) thou [art] great, and thy name [is] great in
might.



(d) He teaches the people to lift up their eyes to God, who has all power and therefore ought only to
be feared: and in this he shows them not only the evil that they ought to hate: but the good which
they ought to follow, (<bcv=Rev 15:4>Rev 15:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 10:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:8>Jeremiah 10:8</verse></h3>



But they are altogether senseless and foolish: the stock [is] a (e) doctrine of vanities.



(e) Because the people thought that to have images was a means to serve God, and to bring them to
the knowledge of him, he shows that nothing more displeases God, nor brings man into greater
errors and ignorance of God: and therefore he calls them the doctrine of vanity, the work of errors,

<page=1876>(Jer 10:15). (Hab 2:18) calls them the teachers of lies: contrary to that wicked opinion, that they are
the books of the lay people.
#BCV:Jeremiah 10:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:9>Jeremiah 10:9</verse></h3>



Silver beaten into plates is brought from Tarshish, and gold (f) from Uphaz, the work of the
craftsman, and of the hands of the goldsmith: blue and purple [is] their clothing: they [are] all the
work of skilful [men].



(f) Where they found the best gold; showing that they thought nothing too dear for their idols, some
read Ophir as in (<bcv=I Ki 9:28>Kg1 9:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 10:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:11>Jeremiah 10:11</verse></h3>



Thus shall ye say to them, The gods (g) that have not made the heavens and the earth, [even] they
shall perish from the earth, and from under these heavens.



(g) This declares that all that has been spoken of idols in this chapter, was to arm the Jews when
they would be in Chaldea among the idolaters, and now with one sentence he instructs them both
how to protest their own religion against the idolaters and how to answer them to their shame who
would exhort them to idolatry, and therefore he writes this sentence in the Chaldean tongue for a
memorial while all the rest of his writing is in Hebrew.
#BCV:Jeremiah 10:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:14>Jeremiah 10:14</verse></h3>



Every man is (h) senseless in [his] knowledge: every goldsmith is confounded by the graven image:
for his molten image [is] falsehood, and [there is] no breath in them.



(h) The more man thinks to do anything well by his own wisdom, and not as God instructs him, the
more he proves himself to be a vile beast.
#BCV:Jeremiah 10:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:16>Jeremiah 10:16</verse></h3>



The (i) portion of Jacob [is] not like them: for he [is] the former of all [things]; and Israel [is] the rod
of his inheritance: The LORD of hosts [is] his name.



(i) By these words, portion and rod, he signifies their inheritance, meaning that God would be all
sufficient for them: and that their happiness consisted in him alone, and therefore they ought to
renounce all other help and comfort as of idols, etc. (<bcv=Deu 32:9>Deu 32:9</bcv>;<bcv=Psa 16:5> Psa 16:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 10:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:17>Jeremiah 10:17</verse></h3>




(k) Gather up thy wares out of the land, O inhabitant of the fortress.

<page=1877>(k) The prophet wills the Jews to prepare themselves for this captivity, showing that it was now at
hand that they would feel the things of which he had told them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 10:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:19>Jeremiah 10:19</verse></h3>



Woe is me for my hurt! my wound is grievous: but I said, Truly this (l) [is] a grief, and I must bear it.



(l) It is my just plague, and therefore I will take it patiently: by which he teaches the people how to
behave themselves toward God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 10:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:20>Jeremiah 10:20</verse></h3>




(m) My tabernacle is laid waste, and all my cords are broken: my children are gone from me, and
they [are] not: [there is] none to stretch forth my tent any more, and to set up my curtains.



(m) He shows how Jerusalem will lament.
#BCV:Jeremiah 10:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:21>Jeremiah 10:21</verse></h3>



For the shepherds (n) have become senseless, and have not sought the LORD: therefore they shall
not prosper, and all their flocks shall be scattered.



(n) The governors and ministers.
#BCV:Jeremiah 10:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:22>Jeremiah 10:22</verse></h3>



Behold, the sound of a rumour is come, and a great commotion from the (o) north country, to
make the cities of Judah desolate, [and] a den of dragons.



(o) Read (<bcv=Jer 4:15>Jer 4:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 10:23
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:23>Jeremiah 10:23</verse></h3>



O LORD, I know that (p) the way of man [is] not in himself: [it is] not in man that walketh to direct
his steps.



(p) He speaks this because Nebuchadnezzar purposed to have made war against the Moabites and
Ammonites, but hearing of Zedekiah's rebellion he turned his power to go against Jerusalem, <bcv=Eze 21:21>(Eze 21:21)</bcv> therefore the prophet says that this was the Lord's direction.

#BCV:Jeremiah 10:24
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:24>Jeremiah 10:24</verse></h3>



O LORD, correct me, but with (q) judgment; not in thy anger, lest thou bring me to nothing.

<page=1878>(q) Considering that God had revealed to him the certainty of their captivity (Jer 7:16) he only prays
that he would punish them with mercy which Isaiah calls in measure, (<bcv=Isa 27:8>Isa 27:8</bcv>) measuring his rods by
their infirmity (<bcv=1Co 10:13>Co1 10:13</bcv>) for here by judgment is meant not only the punishment but also the
merciful moderation of the same as in (<bcv=Jer 30:11>Jer 30:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 10:25
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 10:25>Jeremiah 10:25</verse></h3>



Pour out (r) thy fury upon the nations that know thee not, and upon the families that call not on thy
name: for they have eaten up Jacob, and devoured him, and consumed him, and have made his
habitation desolate.



(r) As God cannot only be known and glorified by his mercy that he uses toward his Church, but
also by his justice in punishing his enemies, he prays that this glory may fully appear both in the one
and the other, (<bcv=Psa 79:6>Psa 79:6</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 11</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 11:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 11:3>Jeremiah 11:3</verse></h3>

<page=1879>And say thou to them, Thus saith the LORD God of Israel; (a) Cursed [be] the man that obeyeth
not the words of this covenant,



(a) He calls the Jews to the consideration of God's mercy, who freely chose them, made a covenant
of eternal happiness with them and how he ever performed it on his behalf and how they ever
showed themselves rebellious and ingrate toward him, and broke it on their part, and so are subject
to the curse of the law, (<bcv=Deu 27:26>Deu 27:26</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 11:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 11:5>Jeremiah 11:5</verse></h3>



That I may perform the oath which I have sworn to your fathers, to give them a land flowing with
milk and honey, as [it is] this day. Then answered (b) I, and said, So be it, O LORD.



(b) Thus he speaks in the person of the people, who agreed to the covenant.
#BCV:Jeremiah 11:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 11:7>Jeremiah 11:7</verse></h3>



For I earnestly protested to your fathers in the day [that] I brought them out of the land of Egypt,
[even] to this day, (c) rising early and protesting, saying, Obey my voice.



(c) Read (<bcv=Jer 7:13>Jer 7:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 11:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 11:8>Jeremiah 11:8</verse></h3>



Yet they obeyed not, nor inclined their ear, but walked every one in the imagination of their (d) evil
heart: therefore I will bring upon them all the (e) words of this covenant, which I commanded [them]
to do; but they did [them] not.



(d) According to his own fantasy, and not as my word appointed him.



(e) Meaning, the menaces and curses contained in the law, (<bcv=Lev 26:14>Lev 26:14</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 28:16> Deu 28:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 11:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 11:9>Jeremiah 11:9</verse></h3>



And the LORD said to me, A (f) conspiracy is found among the men of Judah, and among the
inhabitants of Jerusalem.



(f) That is, general consent to rebel against me.
#BCV:Jeremiah 11:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 11:11>Jeremiah 11:11</verse></h3>

<page=1880>Therefore thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will bring evil upon them, which they shall not be able to
escape; and though they shall cry to me, (g) I will not hearken to them.



(g) Because they will not pray with true faith and repentance, but for the pain and grief which they
feel, (<bcv=Pro 1:28>Pro 1:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 11:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 11:13>Jeremiah 11:13</verse></h3>




(h) For [according to] the number of thy cities were thy gods, O Judah; and [according to] the
number of the streets of Jerusalem have ye set up altars to [that] shameful thing, [even] altars to
burn incense to Baal.



(h) Read (<bcv=Jer 2:28>Jer 2:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 11:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 11:14>Jeremiah 11:14</verse></h3>



Therefore (i) pray not thou for this people, neither lift up a cry or prayer for them: for I will not hear
[them] in the time when they cry to me for their trouble.



(i) Read (<bcv=Jer 7:16>Jer 7:16</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 14:11> Jer 14:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 11:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 11:15>Jeremiah 11:15</verse></h3>



What hath my (k) beloved to do in my house, [seeing] she hath wrought lewdness with many, and
the holy flesh (l) is passed from thee? when thou doest evil, then thou rejoicest.



(k) My people of Israel whom I have greatly loved till now.



(l) Meaning, that they offer not in the temple to God, but on the altars of Baal and the idols and so
rejoiced in their wickedness.
#BCV:Jeremiah 11:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 11:16>Jeremiah 11:16</verse></h3>



The LORD called thy name, A green olive tree, fair, [and] of goodly fruit: with the (m) noise of a
great tumult he hath kindled fire upon it, and the branches of it are broken.



(m) Of the Babylonians and Chaldeans.
#BCV:Jeremiah 11:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 11:18>Jeremiah 11:18</verse></h3>



And the LORD hath given me knowledge [of it], and I know [it]: then thou didst show me (n) their
doings.



(n) Who went about secretly to conspire my death.
#BCV:Jeremiah 11:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 11:19>Jeremiah 11:19</verse></h3>

<page=1881>But I [was] like a lamb [or] an ox [that] is brought to the slaughter; and I knew not that they had
devised plots against me, [saying], Let us (o) destroy the tree with its fruit, and let us cut him off
from the land of the living, that his name may be no more remembered.



(o) Let us destroy the prophet and his doctrine. Some read "Let us corrupt his meat with wood",
meaning poison.
#BCV:Jeremiah 11:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 11:20>Jeremiah 11:20</verse></h3>



But, O LORD of hosts, that judgest righteously, that triest the reins and the heart, let me see thy (p)
vengeance on them: for to thee have I revealed my cause.



(p) Thus he spoke not out of hatred, but being moved with the Spirit of God, he desires the
advancement of God's glory, and the verifying of his word, which is by the destruction of his
enemies.
#BCV:Jeremiah 11:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 11:21>Jeremiah 11:21</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning the men of (q) Anathoth, that seek thy life, saying, (r)
Prophesy not in the name of the LORD, that thou die not by our hand:



(q) That is, both the priests and the rest of the people: for this town was the priests, and they dwelt
in it, (<bcv=Jer 1:1>Jer 1:1</bcv>).



(r) Not that they could not abide to hear God named; (for in this they would show themselves most
holy) but because they could not abide to be sharply reproved, and therefore desired to be flattered



(<bcv=Isa 30:10>Isa 30:10</bcv>), to be maintained in their pleasures (<bcv=Mic 2:11>Mic 2:11</bcv>) and not to hear vice condemned (<bcv=Amos 7:12>Amo 7:12</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 12</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 12:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 12:1>Jeremiah 12:1</verse></h3>


<page=1882>(a) Righteous [art] thou, O LORD, when I plead with thee: yet let me speak with thee of [thy]
judgments: Why doth the way of the wicked (b) prosper? [why] are they all happy that deal very
treacherously?



(a) The prophet confesses God to be just in all his doings, although man is not able to give a reason
for all his actions.



(b) This question has been always a great temptation to the godly, to see the wicked enemies of God
in prosperity, and his dear children in adversity, as in (<bcv=Job 21:7>Job 21:7</bcv>;<bcv=Psa 37:1> Psa 37:1</bcv>,<bcv=Psa 73:3> Psa 73:3</bcv>;<bcv=Hab 1:3> Hab 1:3</bcv>).

#BCV:Jeremiah 12:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 12:2>Jeremiah 12:2</verse></h3>



Thou hast planted them, yea, they have taken root: they grow, yea, they bring forth fruit: thou [art]
near in their mouth, and far from their (c) reins.



(c) They profess God in mouth, but deny him in heart, which is here meant by the reins, 
(<bcv=isa 29:13>Isa 29:13</bcv>; <bcv=Mat 15:8>Mat 15:8</bcv>).

#BCV:Jeremiah 12:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 12:3>Jeremiah 12:3</verse></h3>



But thou, O LORD, knowest me: thou hast seen me, and tried my heart toward thee: pull them out
like sheep for the slaughter, and (d) prepare them for the day of slaughter.



(d) The Hebrew word is "sanctify them", meaning that God would be sanctified in the destruction
of the wicked to whom God for a while gives prosperity, that afterward they would the more feel his
heavy judgment when they lack their riches which were a sign of his mercy.
#BCV:Jeremiah 12:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 12:4>Jeremiah 12:4</verse></h3>



How long shall the land mourn, and the herbs of every field wither, for the wickedness of them that
dwell in it? the beasts are consumed, and the birds; because they said, (e) He shall not see our last
end.



(e) Abusing God's leniency and his promises, they flattered themselves as though God would ever be
merciful and not utterly destroy them therefore they hardened themselves in sin, till at length the
beasts and insensible creatures felt the punishment of their stubborn rebellion against God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 12:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 12:5>Jeremiah 12:5</verse></h3>

<page=1883>If thou hast run with the (f) footmen, and they have wearied thee, then how canst thou contend
with horses? and [if] in the land of peace, [in which] thou didst trust, [they wearied thee], then how
wilt thou do in the swelling of Jordan?



(f) Some think that God reproves Jeremiah, in that he would reason with him, saying that if he was
not able to march with men, then he was far unable to dispute with God. Others, by the footmen
mean them of Anathoth: and by the horsemen, them of Jerusalem who would trouble the prophet
worse than his own countrymen did.
#BCV:Jeremiah 12:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 12:7>Jeremiah 12:7</verse></h3>



I have forsaken (g) my house, I have left my heritage; I have given the dearly beloved of my soul into
the hand of her enemies.



(g) God wills the prophet to denounce his judgments against Jerusalem, even though they will both
by threatenings and flatteries labour to silence him.
#BCV:Jeremiah 12:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 12:8>Jeremiah 12:8</verse></h3>



My heritage is to me as a (h) lion in the forest; it crieth out against me: therefore have I hated it.



(h) Ever ranting and raging against me and my prophets.
#BCV:Jeremiah 12:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 12:9>Jeremiah 12:9</verse></h3>



My heritage [is] to me [as] a (i) speckled bird, the birds around [are] against her; come ye, assemble
all the beasts of the field, come to devour.



(i) Instead of bearing my livery and wearing only my colours, they have change and diversity of
colours of their idols and superstitions therefore their enemies as thick as the fowls of the air will
come about them to destroy them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 12:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 12:10>Jeremiah 12:10</verse></h3>



Many shepherds have destroyed my (k) vineyard, they have trodden my portion under foot, they
have made my pleasant portion a desolate wilderness.



(k) He prophecies of the destruction of Jerusalem, by the captain of Nebuchadnezzar, whom he
calls pastors.
#BCV:Jeremiah 12:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 12:11>Jeremiah 12:11</verse></h3>



They have made it desolate, [and being] desolate it mourneth to me; the whole land is made desolate,
because no man layeth (l) [it] to heart.

<page=1884>(l) Because no man regards my word, or the plagues that I have sent on the land.
#BCV:Jeremiah 12:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 12:13>Jeremiah 12:13</verse></h3>




(m) They have sown wheat, but shall reap thorns: they (n) have put themselves to pain, [but] shall
not profit: and they shall be ashamed of (o) your revenues because of the fierce anger of the LORD.



(m) That is, the prophets.



(n) They lamented the sins of the people.



(o) For instead of amendment, you grew worse and worse, as God's plagues testified.
#BCV:Jeremiah 12:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 12:14>Jeremiah 12:14</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD against all my evil (p) neighbours, that touch the inheritance which I have
caused my people Israel to inherit; Behold, I will pluck them out of their land, and pluck out the
house of Judah from among them.



(p) Meaning the wicked enemies of his Church who blasphemed his Name, and whom he would
punish after he had delivered his people.
#BCV:Jeremiah 12:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 12:15>Jeremiah 12:15</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, after I have plucked them out I (q) will return, and have compassion on
them, and will bring them again, every man to his heritage, and every man to his land.



(q) After I have punished the Gentiles I will have mercy on them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 12:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 12:16>Jeremiah 12:16</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, if they will diligently learn the (r) ways of my people, to swear by my
name, The (s) LORD liveth; as they taught my people to swear by Baal; then shall they be built (t) in
the midst of my people.



(r) The true doctrine and manner to serve God.



(s) Read (<bcv=Jer 4:2>Jer 4:2</bcv>).



(t) They will be of the number of the faithful, and have a place in my Church.

<h2>Jeremiah 13</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 13:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 13:4>Jeremiah 13:4</verse></h3>

<page=1885>Take the sash that thou hast bought, which [is] upon thy loins, and arise, go to (a) Euphrates, and
hide it there in a cleft of the rock.



(a) Because this river was far from Jerusalem, it is evident that this was a vision, by which it was
signified that the Jews would pass over the Euphrates to be captives in Babylon, and there for length
of time would seem to be rotten, although they were joined to the Lord before as a girdle about a
man.
#BCV:Jeremiah 13:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 13:12>Jeremiah 13:12</verse></h3>



Therefore thou shalt speak to them this word; Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, Every (b) skin
shall be filled with wine: and they shall say to thee, Do we not certainly know that every skin shall be
filled with wine?



(b) Every one of you will be filled with spiritual drunkenness, and be without all knowledge to seek
how to help yourselves.
#BCV:Jeremiah 13:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 13:14>Jeremiah 13:14</verse></h3>



And I will (c) dash them one against another, even the fathers and the sons together, saith the
LORD: I will not pity, nor spare, nor have mercy, but destroy them.



(c) It will be as easy for me to destroy the greatest and the strongest as it is for a man to break
earthen bottles.
#BCV:Jeremiah 13:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 13:16>Jeremiah 13:16</verse></h3>



Give glory to the LORD your God, before he shall cause (d) darkness, and before your feet stumble
upon the dark mountains, and, while ye look for (e) light, he shall turn it into the shadow of death,
[and] make [it] gross darkness.



(d) That is, affliction and misery by the Babylonians, (<bcv=Isa 8:22>Isa 8:22</bcv>).



(e) Meaning, for help and support of the Egyptians.
#BCV:Jeremiah 13:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 13:17>Jeremiah 13:17</verse></h3>



But if ye will not hear it, my soul shall (f) weep in secret places for [your] pride; and my eye shall
weep bitterly, and run down with tears, because the LORD'S flock is carried away captive.

<page=1886>(f) You will surely be led away captive and I, according to my affection toward you, will weep and
lament for your stubbornness.
#BCV:Jeremiah 13:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 13:18>Jeremiah 13:18</verse></h3>



Say to the (g) king and to the queen, Humble yourselves, sit down: for your principalities shall come
down, [even] the crown of your glory.



(g) For Jehoiachin and his mother rendered themselves by Jeremiah's counsel to the king of Babylon,



(<bcv=II Ki 24:12>Kg2 24:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 13:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 13:19>Jeremiah 13:19</verse></h3>



The cities of (h) the south shall be shut up, and none shall open [them]: Judah shall be carried away
captive all of it, it shall be wholly carried away captive.



(h) That is, of Judah, which lies south of Babylon.
#BCV:Jeremiah 13:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 13:20>Jeremiah 13:20</verse></h3>



Lift up your eyes, and behold them that come from the north: where [is] the (i) flock [that] was given
thee, thy beautiful flock?



(i) He asks the king, where his people is become.
#BCV:Jeremiah 13:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 13:21>Jeremiah 13:21</verse></h3>



What wilt thou say when he shall punish thee? for thou hast (k) taught them [to be] captains, [and] as
chief over thee: shall not sorrows take thee, as a woman in travail?



(k) By seeking to strangers for help, you have made them skilful to fight against you.
#BCV:Jeremiah 13:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 13:22>Jeremiah 13:22</verse></h3>



And if thou shalt say in thy heart, Why come these things upon me? For the greatness of thy
iniquity are thy skirts (l) uncovered, [and] thy heels made bare.



(l) The cloak of hypocrisy will be pulled off, and your shame seen.
#BCV:Jeremiah 13:26
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 13:26>Jeremiah 13:26</verse></h3>



Therefore will I uncover thy skirts upon thy face, (m) that thy shame may appear.



(m) As your iniquities have been revealed to all the world, so shall your shame and punishment.
#BCV:Jeremiah 13:27
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 13:27>Jeremiah 13:27</verse></h3>

<page=1887>I have seen thy adulteries, and thy (n) neighings, the lewdness of thy harlotry, [and] thy abominations
on the hills in (o) the fields. Woe to thee, O Jerusalem! wilt thou not be made clean? when [shall it]
once [be]?



(n) He compares idolaters to horses inflamed after mares.



(o) There is no place so high nor low, where the marks and signs of your idolatry do not appear.

<h2>Jeremiah 14</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 14:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 14:1>Jeremiah 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=1888>The word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah concerning the (a) dearth.



(a) Which came for lack of rain as in (<bcv=Jer 14:4>Jer 14:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 14:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 14:2>Jeremiah 14:2</verse></h3>



Judah mourneth, and her gates languish; they are (b) black to the ground; and the cry of Jerusalem is
gone up.



(b) The word signifies extreme sorrow.
#BCV:Jeremiah 14:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 14:3>Jeremiah 14:3</verse></h3>



And their nobles have sent their little ones to the waters: they came to the pits, [and] found no water;
they returned with their vessels empty; they were ashamed and confounded, and (c) covered their
heads.



(c) That is, with ashes in token of sorrow.
#BCV:Jeremiah 14:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 14:5>Jeremiah 14:5</verse></h3>



Yea, the hind also calved in the field, and forsook (d) [it], because there was no grass.



(d) Meaning, that the brute beasts for drought were compelled to forsake their young, contrary to
nature, and to go seek water which they could not find.
#BCV:Jeremiah 14:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 14:6>Jeremiah 14:6</verse></h3>



And the wild donkeys stood in the high places, they snuffed up the wind like (e) dragons; their eyes
failed, because [there was] no grass.



(e) Who are so hot by nature, that they cannot be cooled by drinking water, but still gasp for the air
to refresh them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 14:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 14:7>Jeremiah 14:7</verse></h3>




(f) O LORD, though our iniquities testify against us, do thou [it] for thy name's sake: for our
backslidings are many; we have sinned against thee.

<page=1889>(f) He shows the only way to remedy God's plagues, which is by true confession of our sins, and
returning to him by repentance.
#BCV:Jeremiah 14:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 14:8>Jeremiah 14:8</verse></h3>



O the hope of Israel, his saviour in time of trouble, why shouldest thou be as a (g) stranger in the
land, and as a wayfaring man [that] turneth aside to tarry for a night?



(g) That takes no care for us.
#BCV:Jeremiah 14:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 14:9>Jeremiah 14:9</verse></h3>



Why shouldest thou be as a man astonished, as (h) a mighty man [that] cannot save? yet thou, O
LORD, [art] in the midst of us, and we are called by thy name; leave us not.



(h) That takes no care for us.
#BCV:Jeremiah 14:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 14:11>Jeremiah 14:11</verse></h3>



Then said the LORD to me, (i) Pray not for this people for [their] good.



(i) Read (<bcv=Jer 7:16>Jer 7:16</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 11:14> Jer 11:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 14:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 14:13>Jeremiah 14:13</verse></h3>



Then said I, Ah, Lord GOD! behold, the (k) prophets say to them, Ye shall not see the sword,
neither shall ye have famine; but I will give you assured peace in this place.



(k) He pities the people, and accuses the false prophets who deceived them: but the Lord answered
that both the prophets who deceived and the people who permitted themselves to be seduced, will
perish, (<bcv=Jer 23:15>Jer 23:15</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 27:8-9> Jer 27:8-9</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 29:8> Jer 29:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 14:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 14:17>Jeremiah 14:17</verse></h3>



Therefore thou shalt say this word to them; Let my eyes run down with (l) tears night and day, and
let them not cease: for the virgin daughter of my people is broken with a great breach, with a very
grievous blow.



(l) The false prophets promised peace and assurance, but Jeremiah calls to tears, and repentance for
their affliction, which is at hand, as in (<bcv=Jer 9:1>Jer 9:1</bcv>;<bcv=Lam 1:16> Lam 1:16</bcv>,<bcv=Lam 2:18> Lam 2:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 14:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 14:18>Jeremiah 14:18</verse></h3>

<page=1890>If I go forth into the field, then behold the slain with the sword! and if I enter into the city, then
behold them that are sick with famine! yea, both the prophet and the priest go about (m) into a land
that they know not.



(m) Both high and low will be led captive into Babylon.
#BCV:Jeremiah 14:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 14:19>Jeremiah 14:19</verse></h3>



Hast thou utterly rejected (n) Judah? hath thy soul abhorred Zion? why hast thou smitten us, and
[there is] no healing for us? we looked for peace, and [there is] no good; and for the time of healing,
and behold trouble!



(n) Though the prophet knew that God had cast off the multitude, who were hypocrites and bastard
children, yet he was assured that for his promise sake he would still have a Church, for which he
prays.
#BCV:Jeremiah 14:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 14:20>Jeremiah 14:20</verse></h3>



We (o) acknowledge, O LORD, our wickedness, [and] the iniquity of our fathers: for we have sinned
against thee.



(o) He teaches the Church a form of prayer to humble themselves to God by true repentance, which
is the only way to avoid this famine, which was the beginning of God's plagues.
#BCV:Jeremiah 14:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 14:22>Jeremiah 14:22</verse></h3>



Are there [any] among the (p) vanities of the Gentiles that can cause rain? or can the heavens give
showers? [art] not thou he, O LORD our God? therefore we will wait upon thee: for thou hast made
all these [things].



(p) Meaning their idols, read (<bcv=Jer 10:15>Jer 10:15</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 15</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 15:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:1>Jeremiah 15:1</verse></h3>

<page=1891>Then said the LORD to me, (a) Though Moses and Samuel stood before me, [yet] my mind [could]
not [be] toward this people: cast [them] out of my sight, and let them go forth.



(a) Meaning that if there were any man living moved with so great zeal toward the people as were
these two, yet he would not grant this request, as he had determined the contrary, (<bcv=Ezek 14:14>Eze 14:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 15:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:3>Jeremiah 15:3</verse></h3>



And I will appoint over them four kinds, saith the LORD: the sword to slay, and the (b) dogs to tear,
and the fowls of the heaven, and the beasts of the earth, to devour and destroy.



(b) The dogs, birds and beasts would devour them that were slain.
#BCV:Jeremiah 15:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:4>Jeremiah 15:4</verse></h3>



And I will (c) cause them to be removed into all kingdoms of the earth, (d) because of Manasseh
the son of Hezekiah king of Judah, for [that] which he did in Jerusalem.



(c) The word signifies to run to and fro for fear and unquietness of conscience as Cain did.



(d) Not that the people were punished for the king's sin only, but for their own sins also, because
they consented to his wickedness.
#BCV:Jeremiah 15:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:6>Jeremiah 15:6</verse></h3>



Thou hast forsaken me, saith the LORD, thou art gone backward: therefore will I stretch out my
hand against thee, and destroy thee; I am (e) weary with repenting.



(e) That is, I will not call back my plagues or spare you any more.
#BCV:Jeremiah 15:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:7>Jeremiah 15:7</verse></h3>



And I will fan them with a fan (f) in the gates of the land; I will bereave [them] of children, I will
destroy my people, [since] they return not from their ways.



(f) Meaning, the cities.
#BCV:Jeremiah 15:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:8>Jeremiah 15:8</verse></h3>

<page=1892>Their widows (g) are multiplied to me above the sand of the seas: I have brought upon them against
the mother of the young men a spoiler at noonday: I have caused [him] to fall upon it suddenly, and
terrors upon the city.



(g) Because I had slain their husbands.
#BCV:Jeremiah 15:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:9>Jeremiah 15:9</verse></h3>



She that hath borne (h) seven languisheth: she hath breathed her last; her sun is (i) gone down while
[it was] yet day: she hath been ashamed and confounded: and the remnant of them will I deliver to
the sword before their enemies, saith the LORD.



(h) She who had many lost all her children.



(i) She was destroyed in the midst of her prosperity.
#BCV:Jeremiah 15:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:10>Jeremiah 15:10</verse></h3>




(k) Woe is me, my mother, that thou hast borne me a man of strife and a man of contention to the
whole earth! I have neither (l) lent on interest, nor have men lent to me on interest; [yet] every one
of them doth curse me.



(k) By these are the prophet's words, complaining of the obstinacy of the people and that he was
reserved to so wicked a time: in which also he shows what is the condition of God's ministers, that
is, to have all the world against them, though they give no opportunity.



(l) Which is an opportunity for contention and hatred.
#BCV:Jeremiah 15:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:11>Jeremiah 15:11</verse></h3>



The LORD said, (m) Verily it shall be well with thy remnant; verily I will cause the enemy to entreat
thee [well] in the time of evil and in the time of affliction.



(m) In this perplexity the Lord comforted me, and said that my last days would be quiet: and by the
enemy he means here Nebuzaradan the captain of Nebuchadnezzar, who gave Jeremiah the choice
either to remain in his country or to go where he would; or by the enemy he means the Jews, who
would later know Jeremiah's faithfulness, and therefore favour him.
#BCV:Jeremiah 15:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:12>Jeremiah 15:12</verse></h3>



Shall (n) iron break the northern iron and the steel?



(n) As for the people, though they seemed strong as iron, yet they would not be able to resist the
hard iron of Babylon, but would be led captives.
#BCV:Jeremiah 15:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:15>Jeremiah 15:15</verse></h3>

<page=1893>O LORD, thou knowest: remember me, and visit me, and avenge me of my (o) persecutors; take me
not away in thy longsuffering: know that for thy sake I have suffered rebuke.



(o) He does not speak this out of a desire for revenge, but wishing that God would deliver his
Church from them who he knew to be hardened and incorrigible.
#BCV:Jeremiah 15:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:16>Jeremiah 15:16</verse></h3>



Thy words were found, and I (p) ate them; and thy word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart:
for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.



(p) I received them with a great joy, as he that is famished eats meat.
#BCV:Jeremiah 15:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:17>Jeremiah 15:17</verse></h3>



I sat not in the assembly of the mockers, nor rejoiced; I sat alone (q) because of thy hand: for thou
hast filled me with indignation.



(q) I had nothing to do with the wicked contemners of your word, but lamented bitterly for your
plagues: showing what the faithful should do when they see tokens of God's anger.
#BCV:Jeremiah 15:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:18>Jeremiah 15:18</verse></h3>



Why is my pain perpetual, and my wound incurable, [which] refuseth to be healed? wilt thou be
altogether to me (r) as a liar, [and as] waters [that] fail?



(r) And have not assisted me according to the promise? In which it appears that in the saints of God
is imperfection of faith, which through impatience is often assailed as in (<bcv=Jer 20:7>Jer 20:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 15:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:19>Jeremiah 15:19</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the LORD, If thou shalt (s) return, then will I bring thee again, [and] thou shalt
stand before me: and if thou shalt separate the (t) precious from the vile, thou shalt be (u) as my
mouth: let them return (x) to thee; but return not thou to them.



(s) If you forget these carnal considerations and faithfully execute your charge.



(t) That is, seek to win the good from the bad.



(u) That is, as my mouth has pronounced, (<bcv=Jer 1:18>Jer 1:18</bcv>) and as here follows in (<bcv=Jer 15:20>Jer 15:20</bcv>).



(x) Do not conform yourself to their wickedness, but let them follow your godly example.
#BCV:Jeremiah 15:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 15:20>Jeremiah 15:20</verse></h3>

<page=1894>And I will make thee to this people a fortified brasen wall: and they shall fight against thee, but they
shall not (y) prevail against thee: for I [am] with thee to save thee and to deliver thee, saith the
LORD.



(y) I will teach you with an invincible strength and constancy, so that all the powers of the world will
not overcome you.

<h2>Jeremiah 16</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 16:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 16:2>Jeremiah 16:2</verse></h3>

<page=1895>Thou shalt not take (a) thee a wife, neither shalt thou have sons nor daughters in this place.



(a) Meaning that the affliction would be so horrible in Jerusalem that a wife and children would only
increase his sorrow.
#BCV:Jeremiah 16:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 16:5>Jeremiah 16:5</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD, (b) Enter not into the house of mourning, neither go to lament nor
bemoan them: for I have taken away my peace from this people, saith the LORD, [even]
lovingkindness and mercies.



(b) Signifying that the affliction would be so great that one would not have leisure to comfort
another.
#BCV:Jeremiah 16:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 16:6>Jeremiah 16:6</verse></h3>



Both the great and the small shall die in this land: they shall not be buried, neither shall [men] lament
for them, (c) nor cut themselves, nor make themselves bald for them:



(c) That is, should not tear their clothes in sign of mourning.
#BCV:Jeremiah 16:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 16:7>Jeremiah 16:7</verse></h3>



Neither shall [men] tear [themselves] for them in mourning, to comfort them for the dead; neither
shall [men] give them the (d) cup of consolation to drink for their father or for their mother.



(d) For in these great extremities all consolation and comfort will be in vain.
#BCV:Jeremiah 16:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 16:10>Jeremiah 16:10</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, when thou shalt show this people all these words, and they shall say to
thee, Why hath the LORD pronounced all this great evil against us? or what [is] (e) our iniquity? or
what [is] our sin that we have committed against the LORD our God?



(e) Because the wicked are always rebellious and conceal their own sins and murmur against God's
judgments, as though he had no just cause to punish them, he shows him what to answer.
#BCV:Jeremiah 16:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 16:15>Jeremiah 16:15</verse></h3>

<page=1896>But, The LORD liveth, that brought the children of Israel from the land of the north, and (f) from
all the lands where he had driven them: and I will bring them again into their land that I gave to their
fathers.



(f) Signifying that the blessing of their deliverance out of Babylon would be so great that it would
abolish the remembrance of their deliverance from Egypt: but he has here chiefly respect to the
spiritual deliverance under Christ.
#BCV:Jeremiah 16:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 16:16>Jeremiah 16:16</verse></h3>



Behold, I will send for many (g) fishermen, saith the LORD, and they shall fish them; and afterwards
will I send for many hunters, and they shall hunt them from every mountain, and from every hill,
and out of the clefts of the rocks.



(g) By the fishers and hunters are meant the Babylonians and Chaldeans who would destroy them in
such sort, that if they escaped the one, the other would take them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 16:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 16:18>Jeremiah 16:18</verse></h3>



And first I will recompense their iniquity and their sin double; because they have defiled my land,
they have filled my inheritance with the (h) carcases of their detestable and abominable things.



(h) That is, their sons and daughters, who they offered to Molech.
#BCV:Jeremiah 16:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 16:19>Jeremiah 16:19</verse></h3>



O LORD, my (i) strength, and my fortress, and my refuge in the day of affliction, the Gentiles shall
come to thee from the ends of the earth, and shall say, Surely our fathers have inherited (k) lies,
vanity, and [things] in which [there is] no profit.



(i) He wonders at the great mercy of God in this deliverance which will not only extend to the Jews
but also to the Gentiles.



(k) Our fathers were most vile idolaters therefore it comes only of God's mercy that he performs his
promise and has not utterly cast us off.
#BCV:Jeremiah 16:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 16:21>Jeremiah 16:21</verse></h3>



Therefore, behold, I will this once (l) cause them to know, I will cause them to know my hand and
my might; and they shall know that my name [is] JEHOVAH.



(l) They will once again feel my power and mercy for their deliverance that they may learn to
worship me.

<h2>Jeremiah 17</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 17:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:1>Jeremiah 17:1</verse></h3>

<page=1897>The sin of Judah [is] (a) written with a pen of iron, [and] with the point of a diamond: [it is] graven
upon the (b) tablet of their heart, and upon the horns of your (c) altars;



(a) The remembrance of their contempt of God cannot pass, although for a time he defers the
punishment, for it will be revealed to men and angels.



(b) Instead of the law of God, they have written idolatry and all abomination in their heart.



(c) Your sins appear in all the altars that you have erected to idols.
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:2>Jeremiah 17:2</verse></h3>




(d) While their children remember their altars and their idols by the green trees upon the high hills.



(d) Some read, "So that their children remember their altars", that is, follow their father's wickedness.
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:3>Jeremiah 17:3</verse></h3>




(e) O my mountain in the field, I will give thy substance [and] all thy treasures to the spoil, [and] thy
high places for sin, throughout all thy borders.



(e) Zion that was my mountain, will now be left as a waste field.
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:4>Jeremiah 17:4</verse></h3>



And thou, even (f) thyself, shall discontinue from thy heritage that I gave thee; and I will cause thee
to serve thy enemies in the land which thou knowest not: for ye have kindled a fire in my anger,
[which] shall burn for ever.



(f) Because you would not give the land rest, at such times, days and years as I appointed, you will
after this be carried away and it will rest for lack of labourers.
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:5>Jeremiah 17:5</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; (g) Cursed [be] the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and
whose heart departeth from the LORD.



(g) The Jews were given to worldly policies and thought to make themselves strong by the friendship
of the Egyptians, (<bcv=Isa 31:3>Isa 31:3</bcv>) and strangers and in the mean time did not depend on God, and
therefore he denounces God's plagues against them, showing that they prefer corruptible man to
God, who is immortal, (<bcv=Isa 2:22>Isa 2:22</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 48:6-7> Jer 48:6-7</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:8>Jeremiah 17:8</verse></h3>


<page=1898>(h) For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and [that] spreadeth out her roots by the river, and
shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be anxious in the year of
drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.



(h) Read (<bcv=Psa 1:3>Psa 1:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:9>Jeremiah 17:9</verse></h3>




(i) The heart [is] deceitful above all [things], and desperately wicked: who can know it?



(i) Because the wicked always have some excuse to defend their doings he shows that their own lewd
imaginations deceive them and bring them to these hardships: but God will examine their deeds by
the malice of their hearts, (<bcv=I Sa 16:7>Sa1 16:7</bcv>, <bcv=1Ch 28:9>Ch1 28:9</bcv>, <bcv=Psa 7:10>Psa 7:10</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 11:20> Jer 11:20</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 10:12> Jer 10:12</bcv>,<bcv=Rev 2:13> Rev 2:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:11>Jeremiah 17:11</verse></h3>




(k) [As] the partridge sitteth [on eggs], and hatcheth [them] not; [so] he that getteth riches, and not
by right, shall leave them in the midst of his days, and at his end shall be a fool.



(k) As the patriarch by calling gathered others who forsake her when they see she is not their mother:
so the covetous man is forsaken of his riches because he comes by them falsely.
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:12>Jeremiah 17:12</verse></h3>



A glorious (l) high throne from the beginning [is] the place of our sanctuary.



(l) Showing that the godly ought to glory in nothing, but in God who exalts his, and has left a sign
of his favour in his temple.
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:13>Jeremiah 17:13</verse></h3>



O LORD, the hope of Israel, all that forsake thee shall be ashamed, [and] they that depart from me
shall be written (m) in the earth, because they have forsaken the LORD, the fountain of living waters.



(m) Their names will not be registered in the book of life.
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:14>Jeremiah 17:14</verse></h3>



Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; (n) save me, and I shall be saved: for thou [art] my praise.

<page=1899>(n) He desires God to preserve him that he fall not into temptation, considering the great contempt
of God's word, and the multitude that fall from God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:15>Jeremiah 17:15</verse></h3>



Behold, (o) they say to me, Where [is] the word of the LORD? let it come now.



(o) The wicked say that my prophecy will not come to pass, because you deferred the time of your
vengeance.
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:16>Jeremiah 17:16</verse></h3>



As for me, (p) I have not hastened from [being] a shepherd to follow thee: neither have I desired the
woeful day; thou knowest: that which was uttered by my lips was [right] before thee.



(p) I am assured of my calling, and therefore know that the thing which you speak by me will come
to pass, and that I speak not of any worldly affection.
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:17>Jeremiah 17:17</verse></h3>



Be not (q) a terror to me: thou [art] my hope in the day of evil.



(q) However the wicked deal rigorously with me, yet let me find comfort in you.
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:18>Jeremiah 17:18</verse></h3>



Let them be confounded that persecute me, but let not me be confounded: let them be dismayed,
but let not me be dismayed: bring upon them the day of evil, (r) and destroy them with double
destruction.



(r) Read (<bcv=Jer 11:20>Jer 11:20</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:19>Jeremiah 17:19</verse></h3>



Thus said the LORD to me; Go and stand in the (s) gate of the children of the people, by which the
kings of Judah come in, and by which they go out, and in all the gates of Jerusalem;



(s) While your doctrine may best be understood both by high and low.
#BCV:Jeremiah 17:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 17:21>Jeremiah 17:21</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; Take heed to yourselves, and bear no burden on the (t) sabbath day, nor bring
[it] in by the gates of Jerusalem;

<page=1900>(t) By naming the Sabbath day, he comprehends the thing that is signified by it, for if they
transgressed in the ceremony, they must be guilty of the rest, read (<bcv=Exo 20:8>Exo 20:8</bcv>) and by the breaking of
this one commandment, he makes them transgressors of the whole law, as the first and second table
are contained in it.

<h2>Jeremiah 18</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 18:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 18:4>Jeremiah 18:4</verse></h3>

<page=1901>And the vessel that he made of (a) clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again
another vessel, as it seemed good to the potter to make [it].



(a) As the potter has power over the clay to make what pot he will, or to break them, when he has
made them: so have I power over you to do with you as seems good to me, (<bcv=Isa 45:9>Isa 45:9</bcv>;<bcv=Rom 9:20-21> Rom 9:20-21</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 18:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 18:8>Jeremiah 18:8</verse></h3>



If that nation, against which I have pronounced, shall turn from their evil, I will (b) repent of the
evil that I thought to do to them.



(b) When the Scripture attributes repentance to God, it is not that he does contrary to that which he
has ordained in his secret counsel: but when he threatens it is a calling to repentance, and when he
gives man grace to repent, the threatening (which ever contains a condition in it) takes no place: and
this the scripture calls repentance in God, because it so appears to man's judgment.
#BCV:Jeremiah 18:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 18:12>Jeremiah 18:12</verse></h3>



And they said, (c) There is no hope: but we will walk after our own plots, and we will every one do
the imagination of his evil heart.



(c) As men who had no remorse but were altogether bent to rebellion and to their own selfwill.
#BCV:Jeremiah 18:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 18:14>Jeremiah 18:14</verse></h3>



Will [a man] leave the snow of Lebanon [which cometh] from the rock of the field? (d) [or] shall the
cold flowing waters that come from another place be forsaken?



(d) As no man that has thirst refuses fresh waters which he has at home, to go and seek waters
abroad to quench his thirst: so they should not seek help and comfort from strangers and leave God
who was present with them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 18:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 18:15>Jeremiah 18:15</verse></h3>



Because my people hath forgotten me, they have burned incense to vanity, and they have caused
them to stumble in their ways [from] the (e) ancient paths, to walk in paths, [in] a way not cast up;



(e) That is, the way of truth which God had taught by his law, (<bcv=Jer 6:16>Jer 6:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 18:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 18:17>Jeremiah 18:17</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 18:17
<h3><verse=jer 18:17>jer 18:17</verse></h3>



face, in the day of their calamity.



(f) I will show my anger and not my favour toward them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 18:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 18:18>Jeremiah 18:18</verse></h3>



Then said they, Come, and let us devise plots against Jeremiah; for the law (g) shall not perish from
the priest, nor counsel from the wise, nor the word from the prophet. Come, and let us smite him
with the (h) tongue, and let us not give heed to any of his words.



(g) This argument the wicked have always used against the servants of God. The church cannot err:
we are the Church, and therefore whoever speaks against us, they ought to die, (<bcv=I Ki 22:24>Kg1 22:24</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 7:4> Jer 7:4</bcv>, Jer
20:2;<bcv=Mal 2:4> Mal 2:4</bcv>) and thus the false Church persecutes the true Church, which stands not in outward
pomp, and in multitude, but is known by the graces of the Holy Spirit.



(h) Let us slander him and accuse him: for we will be believed.
#BCV:Jeremiah 18:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 18:21>Jeremiah 18:21</verse></h3>



Therefore (i) deliver their children to the famine, and pour out their [blood] by the force of the
sword; and let their wives be bereaved of their children, and [be] widows; and let their men be put to
death; [let] their young men [be] slain by the sword in battle.



(i) Seeing the obstinate malice of the adversaries, who grew daily more and more, the prophet being
moved with God's Spirit, without any carnal affection prays for their destruction because he knew
that it would be to God's glory, and profit of his Church.

<h2>Jeremiah 19</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 19:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 19:3>Jeremiah 19:3</verse></h3>

<page=1903>And say, Hear ye the word of the LORD, O (a) kings of Judah, and inhabitants of Jerusalem; Thus
saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring evil upon this place, which
whoever heareth, his ears shall (b) tingle.



(a) By kings here and in other places are meant counsellors and governors of the people; who he
calls the ancients, (<bcv=Jer 19:1>Jer 19:1</bcv>).



(b) Read of this phrase in (<bcv=I Sa 3:11>Sa1 3:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 19:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 19:5>Jeremiah 19:5</verse></h3>



They have built also the high places of Baal, to burn their sons with fire [for] burnt offerings to Baal,
which I (c) commanded not, nor spoke [it], neither came [it] into my mind:



(c) By which is declared that whatever is not commanded by God's word concerning is service is
against his word.
#BCV:Jeremiah 19:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 19:6>Jeremiah 19:6</verse></h3>



Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that this place shall no more be called (d)
Tophet, nor The valley of the son of Hinnom, but The valley of slaughter.



(d) Read (<bcv=Jer 7:31>Jer 7:31</bcv>;<bcv=2Ki 23:10> Kg2 23:10;</bcv><bcv=Isa 30:33> Isa 30:33</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 19:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 19:11>Jeremiah 19:11</verse></h3>



And shalt say to them, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Even so will I break this people and this city,
as [one] breaketh a (e) potter's vessel, that cannot be made whole again: and they shall bury [them] in
Tophet, till [there be] no place to bury.



(e) This visible sign was to confirm them concerning the assurance of this plague, which the Lord
threatened by his prophet.
#BCV:Jeremiah 19:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 19:13>Jeremiah 19:13</verse></h3>



And the houses of Jerusalem, and the houses of the kings of Judah, shall be defiled as the place of
Tophet, because of all the (f) houses upon whose (g) roofs they have burned incense to all the host
of heaven, and have poured out drink offerings to other gods.

<page=1904>(f) He notes the great rage of the idolaters who left no place free from their abominations, in that
they polluted their own houses with it, as we see yet among the papists.



(g) Read (<bcv=Deu 22:8>Deu 22:8</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 20</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 20:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 20:11>Jeremiah 20:11</verse></h3>


<page=1905>(g) But the LORD [is] with me as a mighty terrible one: therefore my persecutors shall stumble, and
they shall not prevail: they shall be greatly ashamed; for they shall not prosper: [their] everlasting
confusion shall never be forgotten.



(g) Here he shows how his faith strove against temptation and sought the Lord for strength.
#BCV:Jeremiah 20:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 20:14>Jeremiah 20:14</verse></h3>




(h) Cursed [be] the day in which I was born: let not the day in which my mother bore me be blessed.



(h) How the children of God are overcome in this battle of the flesh and the Spirit, and into what
inconveniences they fall till God raises them up again: read (<bcv=Job 3:1>Job 3:1</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 15:10> Jer 15:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 20:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 20:16>Jeremiah 20:16</verse></h3>



And let that man be as the (i) cities which the LORD overthrew, and repented not: and let him hear
the cry in the morning, and the shouting at noon;



(i) Alluding to the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, (<bcv=Gen 19:25>Gen 19:25</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 20:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 20:17>Jeremiah 20:17</verse></h3>



Because he slew me not at my birth; or that my mother might have been my grave, and she had not
been (k) delivered.



(k) Meaning that the fruit of it might never come to profit.
#BCV:Jeremiah 20:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 20:2>Jeremiah 20:2</verse></h3>



Then Pashur struck Jeremiah the prophet, and put him in the (a) stocks that [were] in the high gate
of Benjamin, which [was] by the house of the LORD.



(a) Thus we see that the thing which neither the king nor the princes nor the people dared to
undertake against the prophet of God, this priest as a chief instrument of Satan first attempted,
read (<bcv=Jer 18:18>Jer 18:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 20:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 20:6>Jeremiah 20:6</verse></h3>

<page=1906>And thou, Pashur, and all that dwell in thy house shall go into captivity: and thou shalt come to
Babylon, and there thou shalt die, and shalt be buried there, thou, and all thy (b) friends, to whom
thou hast prophesied lies.



(b) Who have allowed themselves to be abused by your false prophecies.
#BCV:Jeremiah 20:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 20:7>Jeremiah 20:7</verse></h3>



O LORD, thou hast deceived me, and I was (c) deceived: thou art stronger than I, and hast (d)
prevailed: I am in derision daily, every one mocketh me.



(c) In this appears the impatiency which often overcomes the servants of God when they do not see
their labours profit, and also feel their own weakness. See<bcv=Jer 15:18> Jer 15:18</bcv>



(d) You thrust me forth to this work against my will.
#BCV:Jeremiah 20:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 20:8>Jeremiah 20:8</verse></h3>



For since I spoke, I cried out, I cried violence and (e) spoil; because the word of the LORD was
made a reproach to me, and a derision, daily.



(e) He shows that he did his office in that he reproved the people of their vices and threatened them
with God's judgments: but because he was derided and persecuted for this, he was discouraged, and
would have stopped preaching, except that God's spirit forced him to it.
#BCV:Jeremiah 20:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 20:10>Jeremiah 20:10</verse></h3>



For I heard the defaming of many, fear on every side. (f) Report, [say they], and we will report it. All
my friends watched for my fall, [saying], Perhaps he will be enticed, and we shall prevail against him,
and we shall take our revenge on him.



(f) Thus the enemies conferred together to know what they had heard him say, that they might
accuse him of it, read (<bcv=Isa 29:21>Isa 29:21</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 21</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 21:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 21:2>Jeremiah 21:2</verse></h3>


<page=1907>(a) Enquire, I pray thee, of the LORD for us; for Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon maketh war
against us; it may be that the LORD will deal with us according to all his wondrous works, that he
may go up from us.



(a) Not that the king was touched with repentance of his sins and so sought God, as did Hezekiah
when he sent for Isaiah, (<bcv=II Ki 19:1>Kg2 19:1</bcv>;<bcv=Isa 37:2> Isa 37:2</bcv>) but because the prophet might pray to God to take this
present plague away, as Pharaoh sought Moses (<bcv=Exo 9:28>Exo 9:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 21:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 21:4>Jeremiah 21:4</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD God of Israel; Behold, I will (b) turn back the weapons of war that [are] in
your hands, with which ye fight against the king of Babylon, and [against] the Chaldeans, who
besiege you outside the walls, and I will assemble them into the midst of this city.



(b) That is, from your enemies to destroy yourselves.
#BCV:Jeremiah 21:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 21:8>Jeremiah 21:8</verse></h3>



And to this people thou shalt say, Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I set before you the (c) way of life,
and the way of (d) death.



(c) By yielding yourselves to Nebuchadnezzar.



(d) By resisting him.
#BCV:Jeremiah 21:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 21:9>Jeremiah 21:9</verse></h3>



He that abideth in this city shall die by the sword, and by the famine, and by the pestilence: but he
that goeth out, and falleth to the Chaldeans that besiege you, he shall live, and his life shall be to him
for a (e) prize.



(e) As a thing recovered from extreme danger, (<bcv=Jer 37:2>Jer 37:2</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 39:18> Jer 39:18</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 45:5> Jer 45:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 21:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 21:12>Jeremiah 21:12</verse></h3>



O house of David, thus saith the LORD; Execute judgment (f) in the morning, and deliver [him that
is] made desolate out of the hand of the oppressor, lest my fury go out like fire, and burn that none
can quench [it], because of the evil of your doings.



(f) Be diligent to do justice.
#BCV:Jeremiah 21:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 21:13>Jeremiah 21:13</verse></h3>

<page=1908>Behold, I [am] against thee, (g) O inhabitant of the valley, [and] rock of the plain, saith the LORD;
who say, Who shall come down against us? or who shall enter into our habitations?



(g) Meaning, Jerusalem which was built part on the hill and part in the valley and was compassed
about with mountains.
#BCV:Jeremiah 21:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 21:14>Jeremiah 21:14</verse></h3>



But I will punish you according to the fruit of your doings, saith the LORD: and I will kindle a fire



(h) in its forest, and it shall devour all things around it.



(h) That is, in the houses of it, which stood as thick as trees in the forest.

<h2>Jeremiah 22</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 22:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:3>Jeremiah 22:3</verse></h3>

<page=1909>Thus saith the LORD; Execute ye judgment and (a) righteousness, and deliver him that is laid waste
out of the hand of the oppressor: and do no wrong, do no violence to the stranger, the fatherless,
nor the widow, neither shed innocent blood in this place.



(a) This was his ordinary manner of preaching before the kings from Josiah to Zedekiah which was
about forty years.
#BCV:Jeremiah 22:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:5>Jeremiah 22:5</verse></h3>



But if ye will not hear these words, I (b) swear by myself, saith the LORD, that this house shall
become a desolation.



(b) Showing that there is no one greater than he is, (<bcv=Heb 6:13>Heb 6:13</bcv>) and that he will most certainly
perform his oath.
#BCV:Jeremiah 22:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:6>Jeremiah 22:6</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD to the king's house of Judah; Thou [art] (c) Gilead to me, [and] the head
of Lebanon: [yet] surely I will make thee a wilderness, [and] cities [which] are not inhabited.



(c) He compares Jerusalem to Gilead which was beyond Jordan and the beauty of Judea to Lebanon.
#BCV:Jeremiah 22:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:7>Jeremiah 22:7</verse></h3>



And I will (d) prepare destroyers against thee, every one with his weapons: and they shall cut down
thy choice (e) cedars, and cast [them] into the fire.



(d) The Hebrew word signifies to sanctify because the Lord dedicates to his use and purpose such as
he prepares to execute his work, (<bcv=Isa 13:3>Isa 13:3</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 6:4> Jer 6:4</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 12:3> Jer 12:3</bcv>).



(e) Your buildings made from cedar trees.
#BCV:Jeremiah 22:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:8>Jeremiah 22:8</verse></h3>




(f) And many nations shall pass by this city, and they shall say every man to his neighbour, Why hath
the LORD done thus to this great city?



(f) As they who wonder at a thing which they thought would never have come to pass, 
(<bcv=Deu 29:24>Deu 29:24;</bcv> <bcv=1King 9:8>Kg1 9:8).</bcv>

#BCV:Jeremiah 22:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:10>Jeremiah 22:10</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 22:10
<h3><verse=jer 22:10>jer 22:10</verse></h3>



he shall return no more, nor see his native country.



(g) Signifying that they would lose their king: for Jehoiachin went forth to meet Nebuchadnezzar and
yielded himself, and was carried into Babylon, (<bcv=II Ki 24:12>Kg2 24:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 22:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:11>Jeremiah 22:11</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD concerning (h) Shallum the son of Josiah king of Judah, who reigned
instead of Josiah his father, who went forth from this place; He shall not return there any more:



(h) Whom some think to be Jehoiachin and that Josiah was his grandfather: but it seems this was
Jehoiakim, as in (<bcv=Jer 22:18>Jer 22:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 22:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:13>Jeremiah 22:13</verse></h3>



Woe to him that buildeth his house by (i) unrighteousness, and his chambers by wrong; [that] useth
his neighbour's service without wages, and giveth him not for his work;



(i) By bribes and extortion.
#BCV:Jeremiah 22:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:15>Jeremiah 22:15</verse></h3>



Shalt thou reign, because thou closest [thyself] in cedar? did not thy (k) father eat and drink, and do
judgment and justice, [and] then [it was] well with him?



(k) Meaning Josiah, who was not given to ambition and superfluity, but was content with mediocrity,
and only delighted in setting forth God's glory, and to do justice to all.
#BCV:Jeremiah 22:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:18>Jeremiah 22:18</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah; They shall
not lament for (l) him, [saying], Ah my brother! or, Ah sister! they shall not lament for him, [saying],
Ah lord! or, Ah his glory!



(l) For everyone will have enough to lament for himself.
#BCV:Jeremiah 22:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:19>Jeremiah 22:19</verse></h3>



He shall be (m) buried with the burial of a donkey, drawn and cast forth beyond the gates of
Jerusalem.

<page=1911>(m) Not honourably among his fathers, but as carrion are cast in a hole, because their stink should
not infect, read (<bcv=I Ki 14:10>Kg1 14:10</bcv>). Josephus writes that the enemy slew him in the city and commanded
him to be cast before the walls unburied, see (<bcv=Jer 36:30>Jer 36:30</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 22:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:20>Jeremiah 22:20</verse></h3>



Go up to (n) Lebanon, and cry; and lift up thy voice in (o) Bashan, and cry from the passes: for all
thy lovers are destroyed.



(n) To call to the Assyrians for help.



(o) For this was the way out of India to Assyria, by which is meant that all help would fail: for the
Chaldeans have subdued both them and the Egyptians.
#BCV:Jeremiah 22:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:22>Jeremiah 22:22</verse></h3>



The wind shall eat up all thy shepherds, (p) and thy lovers shall go into captivity: surely then shalt
thou be ashamed and confounded for all thy wickedness.



(p) Both your governors and they that would help you will vanish away as wind.
#BCV:Jeremiah 22:23
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:23>Jeremiah 22:23</verse></h3>



O inhabitant of Lebanon, that makest thy nest in the (q) cedars, how gracious shalt thou be when
pangs come upon thee, the pain as of a woman in travail!



(q You that are built of the fair cedar trees of Lebanon.
#BCV:Jeremiah 22:24
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:24>Jeremiah 22:24</verse></h3>



[As] I live, saith the LORD, though (r) Coniah the son of Jehoiakim king of Judah were the signet
upon my right hand, yet would I pluck thee from there;



(r) Who was called Jehoiachin or Jeconiah, whom he calls here Coniah in contempt who thought his
kingdom could never depart from him, because he came of the stock of David, and therefore for
the promise sake could not be taken from his house, but he abused God's promise and therefore
was justly deprived of the kingdom.
#BCV:Jeremiah 22:29
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:29>Jeremiah 22:29</verse></h3>



O (s) earth, earth, earth, hear the word of the LORD.



(s) He shows that all posterity will be witnesses of his just plague, as though it were registered for
perpetual memory.
#BCV:Jeremiah 22:30
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 22:30>Jeremiah 22:30</verse></h3>

<page=1912>Thus saith the LORD, Write ye this (t) man childless, a man [that] shall not prosper in his days: for
no man of his seed shall prosper, sitting upon the throne of David, and ruling any more in Judah.



(t) Not that he had no children (for later he begat Salathiel in the captivity, (<bcv=Mat 1:12>Mat 1:12</bcv>)) but that none
would reign after him as king.

<h2>Jeremiah 23</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 23:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:1>Jeremiah 23:1</verse></h3>

<page=1913>Woe be to (a) the shepherds that destroy and scatter the (b) sheep of my pasture! saith the LORD.



(a) Meaning the prince's governors and false prophets as in (<bcv=Ezek 34:2>Eze 34:2</bcv>).



(b) For which I have special care, and have prepared good pastures for them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:2>Jeremiah 23:2</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the LORD God of Israel against the shepherds that (c) feed my people; Ye
have scattered my flock, and driven them away, and have not visited them: behold, I will visit upon
you the evil of your doings, saith the LORD.



(c) Whose charge is to feed the flock but they eat the fruit of it, (<bcv=Ezek 34:3>Eze 34:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:3>Jeremiah 23:3</verse></h3>



And I will gather the (d) remnant of my flock from all countries where I have driven them, and will
bring them again to their folds; and they shall be fruitful and increase.



(d) Thus the prophets always used to mix the promises with the threatenings lest the godly should
be too much beaten down and therefore he shows how God will gather his Church after this
dispersion.
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:5>Jeremiah 23:5</verse></h3>



Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise to David a righteous (e) Branch, and a King
shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice upon the earth.



(e) This prophecy is of the restitution of the Church in the time of Jesus Christ, who is the true
branch, read (<bcv=Isa 11:1>Isa 11:1</bcv>,<bcv=Isa 45:8> Isa 45:8</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 35:15> Jer 35:15</bcv>;<bcv=Dan 9:24> Dan 9:24</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:7>Jeremiah 23:7</verse></h3>



Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that they shall no more say, The (f) LORD liveth,
who brought the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt;



(f) Read (<bcv=Jer 16:14>Jer 16:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:9>Jeremiah 23:9</verse></h3>

<page=1914>My heart within me is broken because of the (g) prophets; all my bones shake; I am like a drunken
man, and like a man whom wine hath overcome, because of the LORD, and because of the words
of his holiness.



(g) Meaning, the false prophets who deceive the people: in which appears his great love toward his
nation, read (<bcv=Jer 14:13>Jer 14:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:10>Jeremiah 23:10</verse></h3>



For the land is full of adulterers; for because of swearing the land mourneth; the pleasant places of
the wilderness are dried up, and their (h) course is evil, and their force [is] not right.



(h) They run headlong to wickedness and seek vain help.
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:11>Jeremiah 23:11</verse></h3>



For both prophet and priest are profane; even, in my (i) house have I found their wickedness, saith
the LORD.



(i) My temple is full of their idolatry and superstitions.
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:14>Jeremiah 23:14</verse></h3>



I have seen also in the prophets of Jerusalem (k) an horrible thing: they commit adultery, and walk
in lies: they strengthen also the hands of evildoers, that none doth return from his wickedness: they
are all of them (l) to me as Sodom, and the inhabitants of it as Gomorrah.



(k) They who should have profited by my rods against Samaria, are become worse than they.



(l) Though to the world they seem holy fathers, yet I detest them as I did these abominable cities.
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:15>Jeremiah 23:15</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts concerning the prophets; Behold, I will feed them with (m)
wormwood, and make them drink the water of gall: for from the prophets of Jerusalem is
profaneness gone forth into all the land.



(m) Read (<bcv=Jer 8:14>Jer 8:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:16>Jeremiah 23:16</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD of hosts, Hearken not to the words of the prophets that prophesy to you:
they make you vain: they speak a vision of their own (n) heart, [and] not from the mouth of the
LORD.

<page=1915>(n) Which they have invented of their own brain.
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:17>Jeremiah 23:17</verse></h3>



They say still to them that despise me, The LORD hath said, Ye (o) shall have peace; and they say to
every one that walketh after the imagination of his own heart, No evil shall come upon you.



(o) Read (<bcv=Jer 6:14>Jer 6:14</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 8:11> Jer 8:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:18>Jeremiah 23:18</verse></h3>



For (p) who hath stood in the counsel of the LORD, and hath perceived and heard his word? who
hath marked his word, and heard [it]?



(p) Thus they derided Jeremiah as though the word of God was not revealed to him, so also spoke
Zedekiah to Micaiah, (<bcv=I Ki 22:24>Kg1 22:24</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:20>Jeremiah 23:20</verse></h3>



The anger of the LORD shall not return, until he shall have executed, and till he shall have
performed the thoughts of his heart: in the latter days ye (q) shall consider it perfectly.



(q) Both that God has sent me, and that my words will be true.
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:22>Jeremiah 23:22</verse></h3>



But if they had stood in my counsel, and (r) had caused my people to hear my words, then they
should have turned them from their evil way, and from the evil of their doings.



(r) He shows the difference between the true prophets and the false, between the hireling and the
true minister.
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:23
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:23>Jeremiah 23:23</verse></h3>



[Am] I a God at hand, saith the LORD, and not a God (s) afar off ?



(s) Do I not see your falsehood, however you cloak it, and wherever you commit it?
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:25
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:25>Jeremiah 23:25</verse></h3>



I have heard what the prophets said, that prophesy lies in my name, saying, I (t) have dreamed, I
have dreamed.



(t) I have a prophecy revealed to me as in (<bcv=Num 12:6>Num 12:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:27
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:27>Jeremiah 23:27</verse></h3>

<page=1916>Who think to cause (u) my people to forget my name by their dreams which they tell every man to
his neighbour, as their fathers have forgotten my name for Baal.



(u) He shows that Satan raises up false prophets to bring the people from God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:28
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:28>Jeremiah 23:28</verse></h3>



The prophet that hath a dream, let him (x) tell a dream; and he that hath my word, let him speak my
word faithfully. (y) What [is] the chaff to the wheat? saith the LORD.



(x) Let the false prophet declare that it is his own fantasy, and not slander my word as though it were
a cloak to cover his lies.



(y) Meaning, that it is not enough for God's ministers to abstain from lies and to speak the word of
God but that there is judgment in alleging it, and that it may appear to be applied to the same
purpose that it was spoken, (<bcv=Ezek 3:27>Eze 3:27</bcv>; <bcv=1Co 2:13>Co1 2:13</bcv>, <bcv=1Co 4:2>Co1 4:2</bcv>; <bcv=2Ti 2:25>Ti2 2:25</bcv>).

#BCV:Jeremiah 23:30
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:30>Jeremiah 23:30</verse></h3>



Therefore, behold, I [am] against the prophets, saith the LORD, that (z) steal my words every one
from his neighbour.



(z) Who set forth in my Name that which I have not commanded.
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:31
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:31>Jeremiah 23:31</verse></h3>



Behold, I [am] against the prophets, saith the LORD, that use their tongues, and say, (a) He saith.



(a) That is, the Lord.
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:33
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:33>Jeremiah 23:33</verse></h3>



And when this people, or the prophet, or a priest, shall ask thee, saying, What [is] the (b) burden of
the LORD? thou shalt then say to them, What burden? I will even forsake you, saith the LORD.



(b) The prophets called their threatenings God's burden, which the sinners were not able to sustain,
therefore the wicked in deriding the word, would ask of the prophets, what was the burden as
though they would say, "You seek nothing else, but to lay burdens on our shoulders" and thus they
rejected the word of God as a grievous burden.
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:34
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:34>Jeremiah 23:34</verse></h3>

<page=1917>And [as for] the prophet, and the priest, and the people, that shall say, The (c) burden of the LORD,
I will even punish that man and his house.



(c) Because this word was brought to contempt and derision, he will teach them another manner of
speech, and will cause this word burden to cease and teach them to ask with reverence, "What says
the Lord?"
#BCV:Jeremiah 23:36
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 23:36>Jeremiah 23:36</verse></h3>



And the burden of the LORD shall ye mention no more: for every man's (d) word shall be his
burden; for ye have perverted the words of the living God, of the LORD of hosts our God.



(d) The thing which they mock and contemn will come on them.

<h2>Jeremiah 24</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 24:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 24:1>Jeremiah 24:1</verse></h3>



The LORD showed me, and, behold, two (a) baskets of figs [were] set before the temple of the
LORD, after Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon had carried away captive Jeconiah the son of
Jehoiakim king of Judah, and the princes of Judah, with the craftsmen and smiths, from Jerusalem,
and had brought them to Babylon.



(a) The good figs signified them that were gone into captivity and so saved their life, as in (<bcv=Jer 21:8>Jer 21:8</bcv>),
and the bad figs them that remained, who were yet subject to the sword, famine and pestilence.
#BCV:Jeremiah 24:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 24:5>Jeremiah 24:5</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, the God of Israel; Like these good figs, so will I acknowledge them that are
carried away captive of Judah, whom I have sent out of this (b) place into the land of the Chaldeans
for [their] good.



(b) By which he approves the yielding of Jeconiah and his company because they obeyed the
prophet, who exhorted them to it.
#BCV:Jeremiah 24:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 24:7>Jeremiah 24:7</verse></h3>



And I will give them (c) an heart to know me, that I [am] the LORD: and they shall be my people,
and I will be their God: for they shall return to me with their whole heart.



(c) Which declares that man of himself can know nothing till God gives the heart and understanding.
#BCV:Jeremiah 24:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 24:8>Jeremiah 24:8</verse></h3>

<page=1918>And as the bad figs, which cannot be eaten, they are so bad; surely thus saith the LORD, So will I
give Zedekiah the king of Judah, and his princes, and the remnant of Jerusalem, that remain in this
land, and them that dwell (d) in the land of Egypt:



(d) Who fled there for comfort.

<h2>Jeremiah 25</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 25:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:1>Jeremiah 25:1</verse></h3>

<page=1919>The word that came to Jeremiah concerning all the people of Judah in the (a) fourth year of
Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah, that [was] the first year of Nebuchadnezzar king of
Babylon;



(a) That is, in the third year accomplished and in the beginning of the fourth: for though
Nebuchadnezzar began to reign in the end of the third year of Jehoiakim's reign yet that year is not
counted here because it was almost over, (<bcv=Dan 1:1>Dan 1:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:3>Jeremiah 25:3</verse></h3>



From the thirteenth year of Josiah the son of Amon king of Judah, even to (b) this day, that [is] the
three and twentieth year, the word of the LORD hath come to me, and I have spoken to you, (c)
rising early and speaking; but ye have not hearkened.



(b) Which was the fifth year and the ninth month of Jehoiakim's reign.



(c) That is, I have spared no diligence or labour, (<bcv=Jer 7:13>Jer 7:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:5>Jeremiah 25:5</verse></h3>



They (d) said, Turn ye again now every one from his evil way, and from the evil of your doings, and
dwell in the land that the LORD hath given to you and to your fathers for ever and ever:



(d) He shows that the prophets, wholly with one consent laboured to pull the people from those
vices, which then reigned, that is, from idolatry and the vain confidence of men: for under these two
all others were contained, (<bcv=II Ki 17:13>Kg2 17:13</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 18:11> Jer 18:11</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 35:15> Jer 35:15</bcv>;<bcv=Jon 3:8> Jon 3:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:9>Jeremiah 25:9</verse></h3>



Behold, I will send and take all the (e) families of the north, saith the LORD, and Nebuchadnezzar
the king of Babylon, my (f) servant, and will bring them against this land, and against its inhabitants,
and against all these nations (g) around, and will utterly destroy them, and make them an horror, and
an hissing, and perpetual desolations.



(e) The Chaldeans and all their power.



(f) So the wicked and Satan himself are God's servants, because he makes them serve him by
constraint and turns that which they do out of malice to his honour and glory.



(g) As the Philistines, Ammonites, Egyptians and others.
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:10>Jeremiah 25:10</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 25:10
<h3><verse=jer 25:10>jer 25:10</verse></h3>



bridegroom, and the voice of the bride, the sound of the (h) millstones, and the light of the candle.



(h) Meaning that bread and all things that would serve to their feasts would be taken away.
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:12>Jeremiah 25:12</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, when (i) seventy years are accomplished, [that] I will punish (k) the king
of Babylon, and that nation, saith the LORD, for their iniquity, and the land of the Chaldeans, and
will make it perpetual desolations.



(i) This revelation was for the confirmation of his prophecy because he told them of the time that
they would enter and remain in captivity, (<bcv=2Ch 36:22>Ch2 36:22</bcv>; <bcv=Ezra 1:1>Ezr 1:1</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 29:10> Jer 29:10</bcv>;<bcv=Dan 9:2> Dan 9:2</bcv>).



(k) For seeing the judgment began at his own house, the enemies must be punished most grievously,



(<bcv=Ezek 9:6>Eze 9:6</bcv>; <bcv=1Pe 4:17>Pe1 4:17</bcv>).

#BCV:Jeremiah 25:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:14>Jeremiah 25:14</verse></h3>



For many nations and great kings shall be (l) served by them also: and I will recompense them
according to their deeds, and according to the works of their own hands.



(l) That is of the Babylonians as in (<bcv=Jer 27:7>Jer 27:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:15>Jeremiah 25:15</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD God of Israel to me; (m) Take the wine cup of this fury at my hand, and
cause all the nations, to whom I send thee, to drink it.



(m) Signifying the extreme affliction that God had appointed for everyone, (<bcv=Psa 75:8>Psa 75:8</bcv>;<bcv=Isa 51:17> Isa 51:17</bcv>) and
this cup which the wicked drink, is more bitter than that which he gives to his children, for he
measures the one by mercy, and the other by justice.
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:18>Jeremiah 25:18</verse></h3>



[That is], Jerusalem, and the cities of Judah, and her kings, and her princes, to make them a
desolation, an horror, an hissing, and a curse; (n) as [it is] this day;



(n) For now it begins and will so continue till it is accomplished.
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:20>Jeremiah 25:20</verse></h3>

<page=1921>And all the mixed people, and all the kings of the land (o) of Uz, and all the kings of the land of the
Philistines, and (p) Ashkelon, and Azzah, and Ekron, and the remnant of Ashdod,



(o) Read (<bcv=Job 1:1>Job 1:1</bcv>).



(p) Which were cities of the Philistines.
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:21>Jeremiah 25:21</verse></h3>




(q) Edom, and Moab, and the children of Ammon,



(q) Edom is here taken for the whole country and Uz for a part of it.
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:22>Jeremiah 25:22</verse></h3>



And all the kings of Tyre, and all the kings of Zidon, and the kings of the (r) isles which [are]
beyond the sea,



(r) As Greece, Italy and the rest of those countries.
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:23
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:23>Jeremiah 25:23</verse></h3>




(s) Dedan, and Tema, and Buz, and all [that are] in the utmost corners,



(s) These were people of Arabia which came of Dedan the son of Abraham and Keturah.
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:24
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:24>Jeremiah 25:24</verse></h3>



And all the kings of Arabia, and all the kings of the mixed people that dwell in the (t) desert,



(t) For there were two countries so named, the one called plentiful and the other barren, or desert.
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:26
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:26>Jeremiah 25:26</verse></h3>



And all the kings of the north, far and near, one with another, and all the kingdoms of the world,
which [are] upon the face of the earth: and the king of (u) Sheshach shall drink after them.



(u) That is of Babylon, as in (<bcv=Jer 51:41>Jer 51:41</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:29
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:29>Jeremiah 25:29</verse></h3>



For, lo, (x) I begin to bring evil on the city which is called by my name, and should ye be utterly
unpunished? Ye shall not be unpunished: for I will call for a sword upon all the inhabitants of the
earth, saith the LORD of hosts.

<page=1922>(x) That is Jerusalem, read (Jer 25:12).
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:33
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:33>Jeremiah 25:33</verse></h3>



And (y) the slain of the LORD shall be at that day from [one] end of the earth even to the [other]
end of the earth: they shall not be lamented, neither gathered, nor buried; they shall be refuse upon
the ground.



(y) They who are slain at the Lord's appointment.
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:34
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:34>Jeremiah 25:34</verse></h3>



Howl, (z) ye shepherds, and cry; and wallow yourselves [in the ashes], ye chief of the flock: for the
days of your slaughter and of your dispersions are accomplished; and ye shall fall like a (a) pleasant
vessel.



(z) You that are chief rulers, and governors.



(a) Which are most easily broken.
#BCV:Jeremiah 25:35
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 25:35>Jeremiah 25:35</verse></h3>



And the (b) shepherds shall have no way to flee, nor the chief of the flock to escape.



(b) It will not help them to seek to flee.

<h2>Jeremiah 26</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 26:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 26:2>Jeremiah 26:2</verse></h3>

<page=1923>Thus saith the LORD; Stand in the (a) court of the LORD'S house, and speak to all the cities of
Judah, which come to worship in the LORD'S house, all the words that I command thee to speak to
them; diminish not a word:



(a) That is, in that place of the temple to which the people resort out of all Judah to sacrifice.



(b) To the intent that they should pretend no ignorance, as in (<bcv=Acts 20:27>Act 20:27</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 26:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 26:3>Jeremiah 26:3</verse></h3>



It may be they will hearken, and turn every man from his evil way, that I may (c) repent of the evil,
which I purpose to do to them because of the evil of their doings.



(c) See<bcv=Jer 7:12> Jer 7:12</bcv>
#BCV:Jeremiah 26:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 26:6>Jeremiah 26:6</verse></h3>



Then will I make this house like (d) Shiloh, and will make this city (e) a curse to all the nations of the
earth.



(d) See<bcv=Jer 7:12> Jer 7:12</bcv>



(e) So that when they would curse any, they will say, "God do to you as to Jerusalem."
#BCV:Jeremiah 26:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 26:9>Jeremiah 26:9</verse></h3>



Why hast thou prophesied in the name of the LORD, saying, (f) This house shall be like Shiloh, and
this city shall be desolate without an inhabitant? And all the people were gathered against Jeremiah
in the house of the LORD.



(f) Because of God's promises to the temple, (<bcv=Psa 132:14>Psa 132:14</bcv>) that he would forever remain there,
hypocrites thought this temple could never perish and therefore thought it blasphemy to speak
against it, (<bcv=Mat 26:61>Mat 26:61</bcv>;<bcv=Acts 6:13> Act 6:13</bcv>) not considering that this was meant of the Church where God will
remain forever.
#BCV:Jeremiah 26:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 26:10>Jeremiah 26:10</verse></h3>



When the princes of Judah heard these things, then they came up from the king's house to the
house of the LORD, and sat down in the entrance of the (g) new gate of the LORD'S [house].



(g) So called, because it was repaired by Jotham, (<bcv=II Ki 15:35>Kg2 15:35</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 26:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 26:12>Jeremiah 26:12</verse></h3>

<page=1924>Then Jeremiah spoke to all the princes and to all the people, saying, The LORD (h) sent me to
prophesy against this house and against this city all the words that ye have heard.



(h) He both shows the cause of his doings plainly and also threatens them that nothing would help,
though they should put him to death, but heap greater vengeance on their heads.
#BCV:Jeremiah 26:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 26:18>Jeremiah 26:18</verse></h3>



Micah the Morasthite prophesied in the days of Hezekiah king of Judah, and spoke to all the people
of Judah, saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Zion shall be plowed [like] a field, and Jerusalem
shall become heaps, and the mountain of the (i) house as the high places of the forest.



(i) That is, of the House of the Lord, that is, Zion, and these examples the godly alleged to deliver
Jeremiah out of the priests hands, whose rage else would not have been satisfied but by his death.
#BCV:Jeremiah 26:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 26:19>Jeremiah 26:19</verse></h3>



Did Hezekiah king of Judah and all Judah put him to death? did he not fear the LORD, and beseech
the LORD, and the LORD repented of the (k) evil which he had pronounced against them? Thus
might we procure great evil against our souls.



(k) So that the city was not destroyed, but by a miracle was delivered out of the hands of
Sennacherib.
#BCV:Jeremiah 26:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 26:22>Jeremiah 26:22</verse></h3>



And Jehoiakim the king (l) sent men into Egypt, [namely], Elnathan the son of Achbor, and [certain]
men with him into Egypt.



(l) Here is declared the fury of tyrants who cannot stand to hear God's word declared but persecute
the ministers of it, and yet in the end they prevail nothing but provoke God' judgments so much
more.
#BCV:Jeremiah 26:23
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 26:23>Jeremiah 26:23</verse></h3>



And they brought forth Urijah from Egypt, and brought him to Jehoiakim the king; who slew him
with the sword, and (m) cast his dead body into the burial place of the common people.



(m) As in the first Hezekiah's example is to be followed, so in this other Jehoiakim's act it to be
abhorred: for God's plague descended on him and his household.
#BCV:Jeremiah 26:24
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 26:24>Jeremiah 26:24</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 26:24
<h3><verse=jer 26:24>jer 26:24</verse></h3>



give him into the hand of the people to put him to death.



(n) Which declares that nothing could have appeased their fury if God had not moved this noble
man to stand valiantly in his defense.

<h2>Jeremiah 27</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 27:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 27:1>Jeremiah 27:1</verse></h3>

<page=1926>In the beginning of the reign of (a) Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah came this word to
Jeremiah from the LORD, saying,



(a) Concerning the disposition of these prophecies, they who gathered them into a book, did not
altogether observe the order of times, but saw some before, which should be after, and contrary
wise which if the reader mark well it will avoid many doubts and make the reading much easier.
#BCV:Jeremiah 27:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 27:2>Jeremiah 27:2</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD to me; Make for thee (b) bonds and yokes, and put them upon thy neck,



(b) By such signs the prophets used sometimes to confirm their prophecies which they could not do
of themselves but in as much as they had a revelation for the same, (<bcv=Isa 20:2>Isa 20:2</bcv>) and therefore the false
prophets to get more credit, used also such visible signs but they had no revelation, (<bcv=I Ki 22:12>Kg1 22:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 27:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 27:6>Jeremiah 27:6</verse></h3>



And now have I given all these lands into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, my (c)
servant; and the beasts of the field have I given him also to serve him.



(c) Read (<bcv=Jer 25:9>Jer 25:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 27:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 27:7>Jeremiah 27:7</verse></h3>



And all nations shall serve him, and his (d) son, and his son's son, until the very time of his land
shall come: and then many nations and great kings shall (e) bring him into subjection.



(d) Meaning, Evilmerodach and his son Belshazzar.



(e) They will bring him and his kingdom in subjection as in (<bcv=Jer 25:14>Jer 25:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 27:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 27:16>Jeremiah 27:16</verse></h3>



Also I spoke to the priests and to all this people, saying, Thus saith the LORD; Hearken not to the
words of your prophets that prophesy to you, saying, Behold, the vessels of the LORD'S house
shall now shortly be (f) brought again from Babylon: for they prophesy a lie to you.



(f) Which were taken when Jeconiah was led captive into Babel.
#BCV:Jeremiah 27:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 27:18>Jeremiah 27:18</verse></h3>

<page=1927>But if they are prophets, and if the word of the LORD is with them, let them now (g) make
intercession to the LORD of hosts, that the vessels which are left in the house of the LORD, and
[in] the house of the king of Judah, and at Jerusalem, go not to Babylon.



(g) For it was not only the prophet's office to show the word of God, but also to pray for the sins of
the people, (<bcv=Gen 20:7>Gen 20:7</bcv>) which these could not do because they had no express word: for God had
pronounced the contrary.
#BCV:Jeremiah 27:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 27:22>Jeremiah 27:22</verse></h3>



They shall be carried to Babylon, and there shall they be until the day that I visit (h) them, saith the
LORD; then will I bring them up, and restore them to this place.



(h) That is, for the space of seventy years till I have caused the Medes and Persians to overcome the
Chaldeans.

<h2>Jeremiah 28</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 28:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 28:1>Jeremiah 28:1</verse></h3>

<page=1928>And it came to pass the same year, in the beginning of the (a) reign of Zedekiah king of Judah, in
the (b) fourth year, [and] in the fifth month, [that] Hananiah the son of Azur the prophet, who [was]
of (c) Gibeon, spoke to me in the house of the LORD, in the presence of the priests and of all the
people, saying,



(a) When Jeremiah began to bear these bonds and yokes.



(b) After the land had rested, as in (<bcv=Lev 25:2>Lev 25:2</bcv>).



(c) This was a city in Benjamin belonging to the sons of Aaron, (<bcv=Jos 21:17>Jos 21:17</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 28:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 28:5>Jeremiah 28:5</verse></h3>



Then the prophet Jeremiah said to the (d) prophet Hananiah in the presence of the priests, and in
the presence of all the people that stood in the house of the LORD,



(d) He was so esteemed though he was a false prophet.
#BCV:Jeremiah 28:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 28:6>Jeremiah 28:6</verse></h3>



Even the prophet Jeremiah said, Amen: the (e) LORD do so: the LORD perform thy words which
thou hast prophesied, to bring again the vessels of the LORD'S house, and all that is carried away
captive, from Babylon into this place.



(e) That is, I would wish the same for God's honour and wealth of my people but he has appointed
the contrary.
#BCV:Jeremiah 28:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 28:8>Jeremiah 28:8</verse></h3>



The prophets that have been before me and before thee of old (f) prophesied both against many
countries, and against great kingdoms, of war, and of evil, and of pestilence.



(f) Meaning, that the prophets that denounced war or peace were tried either true or false by the
success of their prophecies, even though God makes to come to pass sometimes that which the
false prophet speaks to try the faith of his, (<bcv=Deu 13:3>Deu 13:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 28:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 28:10>Jeremiah 28:10</verse></h3>



Then Hananiah the prophet took the yoke from off the prophet Jeremiah's neck, and (g) broke it.

<page=1929>(g) This declares the impudency of the wicked hirelings who have no zeal to the truth but are led
with ambition to get the favour of men and therefore cannot abide any that might discredit them
but burst forth into rages and contrary to their own conscience, pass not what lies they report or
how wickedly they do so that they may maintain their estimation.
#BCV:Jeremiah 28:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 28:14>Jeremiah 28:14</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; I have put a (h) yoke of iron upon the neck
of all these nations, that they may serve Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon; and they shall serve him:
and I have given him the (i) beasts of the field also.



(h) That is, a hard and cruel servitude.



(i) Signifying that all would be his as in (<bcv=Dan 2:38>Dan 2:38</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 28:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 28:17>Jeremiah 28:17</verse></h3>



So Hananiah the prophet (k) died the same year in the seventh month.



(k) Seeing this thing was evident in the eyes of the people and yet they returned not to the Lord, it is
manifest that miracles cannot move us, neither the word itself, unless God touch the heart.

<h2>Jeremiah 29</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 29:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 29:1>Jeremiah 29:1</verse></h3>

<page=1930>Now these [are] the words of the letter that Jeremiah the prophet sent from Jerusalem to (a) the rest
of the elders who were carried away captives, and to the priests, and to the prophets, and to all the
people whom Nebuchadnezzar had carried away captive from Jerusalem to Babylon;



(a) For some died in the way.
#BCV:Jeremiah 29:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 29:2>Jeremiah 29:2</verse></h3>




(After Jeconiah the king, and the (b) queen, and the eunuchs, the princes of Judah and Jerusalem,
and the craftsmen, and the smiths, had departed from Jerusalem;)



(b) Meaning Jeconiah's mother.

#BCV:Jeremiah 29:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 29:3>Jeremiah 29:3</verse></h3>



By the hand of Elasah the son of Shaphan, and Gemariah the son of Hilkiah, (whom Zedekiah king
of Judah (c) sent to Babylon to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon) saying,



(c) To entreat of some equal condition.
#BCV:Jeremiah 29:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 29:4>Jeremiah 29:4</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, to all that are carried away captives, whom I have



(d) caused to be carried away from Jerusalem to Babylon;



(d) That is, the Lord whose work this was.

#BCV:Jeremiah 29:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 29:7>Jeremiah 29:7</verse></h3>



And seek the peace of the city where I have caused you to be carried away captives, and (e) pray to
the LORD for it: for in the peace of it ye shall have peace.



(e) The prophet does not speak this for the affection that he bore to the tyrant, but that they should
pray for the common rest and quietness that their troubles might not be increased, and that they
might with more patience and less grief wait for the time of their deliverance, which God had
appointed most certain: for not only the Israelites but all the world yea and the insensible creatures
would rejoice when these tyrants would be destroyed, as in (<bcv=Isa 24:4>Isa 24:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 29:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 29:13>Jeremiah 29:13</verse></h3>

<page=1931>And ye shall seek me, and find [me], when ye shall search for me with all (f) your heart.



(f) When your oppression will be great, and your afflictions cause you to repent your disobedience
and also when the seventy years of your captivity will be expired, (<bcv=2Ch 36:22>Ch2 36:22</bcv>; <bcv=Ezra 1:1>Ezr 1:1</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 25:12> Jer 25:12</bcv>; <bcv=Dan 9:2>Dan 9:2</bcv>).

#BCV:Jeremiah 29:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 29:15>Jeremiah 29:15</verse></h3>



Because ye have said, The LORD hath raised up for us (g) prophets in Babylon;



(g) As Ahab, Zedekiah and Shemaiah.
#BCV:Jeremiah 29:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 29:17>Jeremiah 29:17</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, I will send upon them the (h) sword, the famine, and the
pestilence, and will make them like vile (i) figs, that cannot be eaten, they are so bad.



(h) By which he assures them that there will be no hope of returning before the appointed time.



(i) According to the comparison, (<bcv=Jer 24:1-2>Jer 24:1-2</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 29:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 29:18>Jeremiah 29:18</verse></h3>



And I will persecute them with the sword, with the famine, and with the pestilence, and will deliver
them to be removed to all the kingdoms of the earth, to be (k) a curse, and an horror, and an hissing,
and a reproach, among all the nations where I have driven them:



(k) Read (<bcv=Jer 26:6>Jer 26:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 29:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 29:19>Jeremiah 29:19</verse></h3>



Because they have not hearkened to my words, saith the LORD, which I sent to them by my
servants the prophets, (l) rising early and sending [them]; but ye would not hear, saith the LORD.



(l) Read (<bcv=Jer 7:13>Jer 7:13</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 25:3> Jer 25:3</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 26:5> Jer 26:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 29:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 29:22>Jeremiah 29:22</verse></h3>



And concerning them shall be taken up a curse by all the captivity of Judah who [are] in Babylon,
saying, The LORD make thee like Zedekiah and like Ahab, whom the king of Babylon roasted (m)
in the fire;



(m) Because they gave the people hope of speedy returning.
#BCV:Jeremiah 29:23
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 29:23>Jeremiah 29:23</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 29:23
<h3><verse=jer 29:23>jer 29:23</verse></h3>



neighbour's wives, and have spoken lying words in my name, which I have not commanded them;
even I know, and [am] a witness, saith the LORD.



(n) Which was adultery and falsifying the word of God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 29:26
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 29:26>Jeremiah 29:26</verse></h3>



The LORD hath made thee priest in the stead of (o) Jehoiada the priest, that ye should be officers
in the house of the LORD, for every man [that is] mad, and maketh himself a prophet, that thou
shouldest put him in prison, and in the stocks.



(o) Shemaiah the false prophet flatters Zephaniah the chief priest as though God had given him the
spirit and zeal of Jehoiada to punish whoever trespassed against the word of God, of that he would
have made Jeremiah one, calling him a raver and a false prophet.
#BCV:Jeremiah 29:32
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 29:32>Jeremiah 29:32</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will punish Shemaiah the Nehelamite, and his seed: he
shall not have a man (p) to dwell among this people; neither shall he behold the good that I will do
for my people, saith the LORD; because he hath taught rebellion against the LORD.



(p) He and his seed will be destroyed so that none of them would see the blessing of this
deliverance.

<h2>Jeremiah 30</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 30:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 30:2>Jeremiah 30:2</verse></h3>

<page=1933>Thus speaketh the LORD God of Israel, saying, Write for thee all the words that I have spoken to
thee in a (a) book.



(a) Because they would be assured and their posterity confirmed in the hope of this deliverance
promised.
#BCV:Jeremiah 30:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 30:5>Jeremiah 30:5</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD; We have heard a (b) voice of trembling, of fear, and not of peace.



(b) He shows that before this deliverance will come, the Chaldeans would be extremely afflicted by
their enemies, and that they would be in such perplexity and sorrow as a woman in her travail 
as (<bcv=isa 13:8>Isa 13:8</bcv>).

#BCV:Jeremiah 30:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 30:7>Jeremiah 30:7</verse></h3>



Alas! for that (c) day [is] great, so that none [is] like it: it [is] even the time of Jacob's trouble; but he
shall be saved out of it.



(c) Meaning that the time of their captivity would be grievous.
#BCV:Jeremiah 30:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 30:8>Jeremiah 30:8</verse></h3>




(d) For it shall come to pass in that day, saith the LORD of hosts, [that] I will break (e) his yoke
from off thy neck, and will burst thy bonds, and strangers shall no more (f) bring him into
subjection:



(d) When I will visit Babylon.



(e) Of the king of Babylon.



(f) That is, of Jacob.
#BCV:Jeremiah 30:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 30:9>Jeremiah 30:9</verse></h3>



But they shall serve the LORD their God, and (g) David their king, whom I will raise up to them.



(g) That is, Messiah who would come of the stock of David according to the flesh and would be the
true pastor, (<bcv=Ezek 34:23>Eze 34:23</bcv>) who is set forth and his kingdom would be everlasting in the person of
David, (<bcv=Hos 3:5>Hos 3:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 30:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 30:11>Jeremiah 30:11</verse></h3>

<page=1934>For I [am] with thee, saith the LORD, to save thee: though I make a full end of all nations where I
have scattered thee, yet will I not make a full end of thee: but I will correct thee in measure, and will
not (h) leave thee altogether unpunished.



(h) In this is commanded God's great mercy toward his, who does not destroy them for their sins,
but corrects and chastises them till he has purged and pardoned them and so burns the rods by
which he punished them, (<bcv=Isa 33:1>Isa 33:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 30:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 30:18>Jeremiah 30:18</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will bring again the captives of Jacob's tents, and have mercy on his
dwellingplaces; and the city shall be built upon her own heap, and the (m) palace shall remain after
its manner.



(m) Meaning that the city and the temple would be restored to their former estate.
#BCV:Jeremiah 30:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 30:19>Jeremiah 30:19</verse></h3>



And out of them shall proceed (n) thanksgiving and the voice of them that make merry: and I will
multiply them, and they shall not be few; I will also glorify them, and they shall not be small.



(n) He shows how the people will with praise and thanksgiving acknowledge this blessing.
#BCV:Jeremiah 30:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 30:21>Jeremiah 30:21</verse></h3>



And their (o) nobles shall be from themselves, and their governor shall proceed from the midst of
them; and I will cause him to draw near, and he shall approach to me: for who [is] this that engaged
his (p) heart to approach to me? saith the LORD.



(o) Meaning, Zerubbabel, who was the figure of Christ in whom this was accomplished.



(p) Signifying that Christ willingly submits himself to the obedience of God his father.
#BCV:Jeremiah 30:23
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 30:23>Jeremiah 30:23</verse></h3>



Behold, (q) the whirlwind of the LORD goeth forth with fury, a continuing whirlwind: it shall fall
with pain upon the head of the wicked.



(q) Lest the wicked hypocrites should flatter themselves with these promises the prophet shows
what will be their portion.
#BCV:Jeremiah 30:24
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 30:24>Jeremiah 30:24</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 30:24
<h3><verse=jer 30:24>jer 30:24</verse></h3>



the intents of his heart: in the (r) latter days ye shall consider it.



(r) When this Messiah and deliverer is sent.

<h2>Jeremiah 31</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 31:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:1>Jeremiah 31:1</verse></h3>

<page=1936>At the (a) same time, saith the LORD, I will be the God of all the families of Israel, and they shall
be my people.



(a) When this noble governor will come, meaning Christ, not only Judah and Israel, but the rest of
the world will be called.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:2>Jeremiah 31:2</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, The people [who were] (b) left by the sword found grace in the wilderness; (c)
[even] Israel, when I went to cause him to rest.



(b) Who were delivered from the cruelty of Pharaoh.



(c) That is, God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:3>Jeremiah 31:3</verse></h3>



The LORD appeared (d) of old to me, [saying], (e) I have loved thee with an everlasting love:
therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.



(d) The people thus reason as though he were not so beneficial to them now as he had been of old.



(e) Thus the Lord answers that his love is not changeable.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:4>Jeremiah 31:4</verse></h3>



Again I will build thee, and thou shalt be built, O virgin of Israel: thou shalt again (f) be adorned
with thy tabrets, and shalt go forth in the dances of them that make merry.



(f) You will still have opportunity to rejoice which is meant by tabrets and dancing as their custom
was after notable victories, (<bcv=Exo 15:20>Exo 15:20</bcv>; Jdg 11:34).
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:5>Jeremiah 31:5</verse></h3>



Thou shalt yet plant vines upon the mountains of (g) Samaria: the planters shall plant, and (h) shall
eat [them] as common things.



(g) Because the Israelites who were the ten tribes never returned to Samaria, therefore this must be
spiritually understood under the kingdom of Christ, which was the restoration of the true Israel.



(h) That is, will eat the fruit of it, as in (<bcv=Lev 19:23-25>Lev 19:23-25</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 20:6> Deu 20:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:6>Jeremiah 31:6</verse></h3>

<page=1937>For there shall be a day, [that] the (i) watchmen upon the mount Ephraim shall cry, Arise ye, and let
us go up to (k) Zion to the LORD our God.



(i) The ministers of the word.



(k) They will exhort all to the embracing of the gospel, as in (<bcv=Isa 2:3>Isa 2:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:7>Jeremiah 31:7</verse></h3>




(l) For thus saith the LORD; Sing with gladness for Jacob, and shout among the chief of the nations:
proclaim ye, praise ye, and say, O LORD, save thy people, the remnant of Israel.



(l) He shows what will be the concord and love of all under the gospel when none will be refused
for their infirmities: and everyone will exhort one another to embrace it.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:9>Jeremiah 31:9</verse></h3>



They shall come with (m) weeping, and with supplications will I lead them: I will cause them to walk
by the rivers of (n) waters in a straight way, in which they shall not stumble: for I am a father to
Israel, and Ephraim [is] (o) my firstborn.



(m) That is, lamenting their sins which had not given ear to the prophets and therefore it follows
that God received them to mercy, (<bcv=Jer 50:4>Jer 50:4</bcv>). Some take it that they should weep for joy.



(n) Where they found no impediments, but abundance of all things.



(o) That is, my dearly beloved as the first child is to the father.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:11>Jeremiah 31:11</verse></h3>



For the LORD hath redeemed Jacob, and ransomed him from the hand (p) of [him that was]
stronger than he.



(p) That is, from the Babylonians and other enemies.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:12>Jeremiah 31:12</verse></h3>



Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, and shall flow together to the goodness
of the LORD, for (q) grain, and for wine, and for oil, and for the young of the flock and of the
herd: and their soul shall be as a watered garden; and they shall not sorrow any more at all.



(q) By these temporal benefits he means the spiritual graces which are in the Church, and of which
there would ever be plenty, (<bcv=Isa 58:11-12>Isa 58:11-12</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:13>Jeremiah 31:13</verse></h3>

<page=1938>Then shall the virgin rejoice in the (r) dance, both young men and old together: for I will turn their
mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and make them rejoice from their sorrow.



(r) In the company of the faithful, who ever praise God for his benefits.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:14>Jeremiah 31:14</verse></h3>



And I will abundantly satisfy the soul of the priests with (s) fatness, and my people shall be satisfied
with my goodness, saith the LORD.



(s) Meaning, the spirit of wisdom, knowledge and zeal.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:15>Jeremiah 31:15</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; A voice was heard in Ramah, lamentation, [and] bitter weeping; (t) Rachel
weeping for her children refused to be comforted for her children, because they [were] not.



(t) To declare the greatness of God's mercy in delivering the Jews, he shows them that they were like
the Benjamites of the Israelites, that is, utterly destroyed and carried away, so much so that if Rachel
the mother of Benjamin could have risen again to seek her children she would have found none
remaining.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:18>Jeremiah 31:18</verse></h3>



I have surely heard (u) Ephraim bemoaning himself [thus]; Thou hast chastised me, and I was
chastised, as a (x) bull unaccustomed [to the yoke]: (y) turn thou me, and I shall be turned; for thou
[art] the LORD my God.



(u) That is, the people who were led captive.



(x) Which was wanton and could not be subject to the yoke.



(y) He shows how the faithful used to pray, that is, desire God to tame them as they cannot turn of
themselves.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:19>Jeremiah 31:19</verse></h3>



Surely after I was turned, I repented; and after I was instructed, I smote upon [my] (z) thigh: I was
ashamed, and even confounded, because I bore the reproach of my youth.



(z) In sign of repentance and detestation of my sin.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:20>Jeremiah 31:20</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 31:20
<h3><verse=jer 31:20>jer 31:20</verse></h3>



remember him still: therefore my heart is troubled for him; I will surely have mercy upon him, saith
the LORD.



(a) As though he would say no for by his iniquity he did what lay in him to cast me off.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:21>Jeremiah 31:21</verse></h3>



Set thee up (c) waymarks, make thee high heaps: set thy heart toward the highway, [even] the way
[which] thou wentest: turn again, O virgin of Israel, turn again to these thy cities.



(c) Mark by what way you went into captivity and you will turn again by the same.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:22>Jeremiah 31:22</verse></h3>



How long wilt thou wander about, O thou backsliding daughter? for the LORD hath created (d) a
new thing in the earth, A woman shall encompass a man.



(d) Because their deliverance from Babylon was a figure of their deliverance from sin, he shows how
this would be procured that is, by Jesus Christ, whom a woman would conceive and bear in her
womb. Which is a strange thing in earth, because he would be born of a virgin without man or he
means that Jerusalem which was like a barren woman in her captivity would be fruitful as she that is
joined in marriage and whom God blesses with children.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:26
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:26>Jeremiah 31:26</verse></h3>



Upon this I awoke, and beheld; and my sleep (e) was sweet to me.



(e) Having understood this vision of the Messiah to come, in whom the two houses of Israel and
Judah would be joined, I rejoiced.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:27
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:27>Jeremiah 31:27</verse></h3>



Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will sow the house of Israel and the house of Judah



(f) with the seed of man, and with the seed of beast.



(f) I will multiply and enrich them with people and cattle.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:29
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:29>Jeremiah 31:29</verse></h3>



In those days they shall say no more, The fathers have (g) eaten a sour grape, and the children's teeth
are set on edge.

<page=1940>(g) The wicked used this proverb when they murmured against God's judgments pronounced by the
prophets, saying that their fathers had committed the fault and that the children were punished, (<bcv=Eze 18:2-3>Eze 18:2-3</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:31
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:31>Jeremiah 31:31</verse></h3>



Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will make a (h) new covenant with the house of Israel,
and with the house of Judah:



(h) Though the covenant of redemption made to the fathers and this which was given later seemed
varied, yet they are all one and grounded on Jesus Christ, save that this is called new, because of the
manifestation of Christ and the abundant graces of the Holy Spirit given to his Church under the
gospel.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:32
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:32>Jeremiah 31:32</verse></h3>



Not according to the covenant that I made with their fathers in the day [that] I took them by the
hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt; which my covenant they (i) broke, although I was an
husband to them, saith the LORD:



(i) And so were the opportunity of their own divorcement through their infidelity, (<bcv=Isa 50:1>Isa 50:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:33
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:33>Jeremiah 31:33</verse></h3>



But this [shall be] the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After (k) those days, saith
the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God,
and they shall be my people.



(k) In the time of Christ, my law will instead of tables of stone be written in their hearts by my Holy
Spirit, (<bcv=Heb 8:10>Heb 8:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:34
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:34>Jeremiah 31:34</verse></h3>



And they shall (l) teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know
the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest of them, saith the
LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.



(l) Under the kingdom of Christ there will be no one blinded with ignorance, but I will give them
faith, and acknowledge God for remission of their sins and daily increase the same: so that it will
not seem to come so much by the preaching of my ministers as by the instruction of my Holy Spirit,



(<bcv=Isa 54:13>Isa 54:13</bcv>) but the full accomplishing of it is referred to the kingdom of Christ, when we will be
joined with our head.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:35
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:35>Jeremiah 31:35</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 31:35
<h3><verse=jer 31:35>jer 31:35</verse></h3>



and of the stars for a light by night, who divideth the sea when its waves roar; The LORD of hosts
[is] his name:



(m) If the sun, moon and stars cannot but glue light according to my ordinance, so long as this
world lasts, so shall my church never fail, neither shall anything hinder it: and as sure as I will have a
people, so certain is it, that I will leave them my word forever to govern them with.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:37
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:37>Jeremiah 31:37</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; If heaven above can be measured, (n) and the foundations of the earth
searched out beneath, I will also cast off all the seed of Israel for all that they have done, saith the
LORD.



(n) The one and the other is impossible.
#BCV:Jeremiah 31:38
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 31:38>Jeremiah 31:38</verse></h3>



Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that the (o) city shall be built to the LORD from the tower
of Hananeel to the gate of the corner.



(o) As it was performed, (<bcv=Neh 3:1>Neh 3:1</bcv>). By this description he shows that the city would be as ample and
beautiful as it ever was: but he alludes to the spiritual Jerusalem whose beauty would be
incomparable.

<h2>Jeremiah 32</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 32:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:1>Jeremiah 32:1</verse></h3>

<page=1942>The word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD in the (a) tenth year of Zedekiah king of Judah,
which [was] the eighteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar.



(a) So that Jeremiah had now prophesied from the thirteenth year of Josiah to the last year save one
of Zedekiah's reign, which was almost forty years.
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:5>Jeremiah 32:5</verse></h3>



And he shall lead Zedekiah to Babylon, and there shall he be until (b) I visit him, saith the LORD:
though ye fight with the Chaldeans, ye shall not prosper.



(b) Till I take Zedekiah away by death: for he will not die by the sword as in (<bcv=Jer 34:4>Jer 34:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:7>Jeremiah 32:7</verse></h3>



Behold, Hanameel the son of Shallum thy uncle shall come to thee, saying, (c) Buy for thee my field
that [is] in Anathoth: for the right of redemption [is] thine (d) to buy [it].



(c) By which was meant that the people would return again out of captivity and enjoy their
possessions and vineyards as in (<bcv=Jer 32:15>Jer 32:15</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 32:44> Jer 32:44</bcv>).



(d) Because he was next of the kindred, as in (<bcv=Ruth 4:4>Rut 4:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:8>Jeremiah 32:8</verse></h3>



So Hanameel my uncle's son came to me in the court of the prison according to the word of the
LORD, and said to me, Buy my (e) field, I pray thee, that [is] in Anathoth, which [is] in the country
of Benjamin: for the right of inheritance [is] thine, and the redemption [is] thine; buy [it] for thyself.
Then I knew that this [was] the word of the LORD.



(e) Of the possession of the Levites, read (<bcv=Lev 25:32>Lev 25:32</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:9>Jeremiah 32:9</verse></h3>



And I bought the field of Hanameel my uncle's son, that [was] in Anathoth, and weighed him the
money, [even] seventeen (f) shekels of silver.



(f) Which amounts to about ten shillings six pence in our money if this shekel were the common
shekel, See<bcv=Gen 23:15> Gen 23:15</bcv>, for the shekel of the temple was of double value, and ten pieces of silver were
half a shekel, for twenty made the shekel.
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:11>Jeremiah 32:11</verse></h3>

<page=1943>So I took the deed of the purchase, [both] that which was sealed (g) [according] to the law and
custom, and that which was open:



(g) According to the custom the instrument or evidence was sealed up with the common seal and a
copy of it remained which contained the same in effect but was left open to be seen if anything
should be called into doubt.
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:14>Jeremiah 32:14</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Take these deeds, this deed of the purchase, both
that which is sealed, and this deed which is open; and put them in an earthen (h) vessel, that they
may continue many days.



(h) And so to hide them in the ground, that they might be reserved as a token of their deliverance.
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:18>Jeremiah 32:18</verse></h3>



Thou shewest lovingkindness to thousands, and recompensest the iniquity of the fathers into the
bosom of their (i) children after them: the Great, the Mighty God, JEHOVAH of hosts, [is] his
name,



(i) Because the wicked are subject to the curse of God, he shows that their posterity who by nature
are under this malediction will be punished both for their own wickedness and that the iniquity of
their fathers which is likewise in them, will be also avenged on their head.
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:20>Jeremiah 32:20</verse></h3>




(k) Who hast set signs and wonders in the land of Egypt, [even] to this day, and in Israel, and among
[other] men; and hast made thee a name, as at this day;



(k) Meaning that his miracles in delivering his people would never be forgotten.
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:24
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:24>Jeremiah 32:24</verse></h3>



Behold the (l) mounts, they are come to the city to take it; and the city is given into the hand of the
Chaldeans, that fight against it, because of the sword, and of the famine, and of the pestilence: and
what thou hast spoken is come to pass; and, behold, thou seest [it].



(l) The word signifies anything that is cast up, as a mount or rampart, and is also used for engines of
war, which were laid on a high place to shoot into a city before guns were in use.
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:27
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:27>Jeremiah 32:27</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 32:27
<h3><verse=jer 32:27>jer 32:27</verse></h3>




(m) That is, of every creature: who as they are his work, so does he govern and guide them as
pleases him, by which he shows that as he is the author of their captivity for their sins, so will he for
his mercies be their redeemer to restore them again to liberty.
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:30
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:30>Jeremiah 32:30</verse></h3>



For the children of Israel and the children of Judah have done evil only before me from their (n)
youth: for the children of Israel have only provoked me to anger with the work of their hands, saith
the LORD.



(n) From the time that I brought them out of Egypt and made them my people and called them my
firstborn.
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:33
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:33>Jeremiah 32:33</verse></h3>



And they have turned to me the back, and not the face: though I taught them, (o) rising early and
teaching [them], yet they have not hearkened to receive instruction.



(o) (<bcv=2Ch 36:15>Ch2 36:15</bcv>; <bcv=Isa 65:2>Isa 65:2</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 7:13> Jer 7:13</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 13:3> Jer 13:3</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 26:5> Jer 26:5</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 29:19> Jer 29:19</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 35:14> Jer 35:14</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 44:4> Jer 44:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:35
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:35>Jeremiah 32:35</verse></h3>



And they built the high (p) places of Baal, which [are] in the valley of the (q) son of Hinnom, to
cause their sons and their daughters to (r) pass through [the fire] to Molech; which I commanded
them not, neither came it into my mind, that they should do this abomination, to cause Judah to sin.



(p) That is, the altars which were made to offer sacrifices to their idols on.



(q) Read (<bcv=Jer 7:31>Jer 7:31</bcv>;<bcv=2Ki 21:4> Kg2 21:4,</bcv><bcv=2Ki 21:6> Kg2 21:6).</bcv>



(r) Read (<bcv=II Ki 16:3>Kg2 16:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:36
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:36>Jeremiah 32:36</verse></h3>



And now (s) therefore thus saith the LORD, the God of Israel, concerning this city, of which ye say,
It shall be delivered into the hand of the king of Babylon by the sword, and by the famine, and by
the pestilence;



(s) Read (<bcv=Jer 30:16>Jer 30:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:39
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:39>Jeremiah 32:39</verse></h3>

<page=1945>And I will give them (t) one heart, and one way, that they may fear me for ever, for the good of
them, and of their children after them:



(t) One consent and one religion, as in (<bcv=Ezek 11:19>Eze 11:19</bcv>,<bcv=Ezek 36:26> Eze 36:26</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:40
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:40>Jeremiah 32:40</verse></h3>



And I will make an everlasting (u) covenant with them, that I will not turn away from them, to do
them good; but I will put my fear in their hearts, that they shall not depart from me.



(u) Read (<bcv=Jer 31:1-33>Jeremiah 31:1-33</bcv>:26).
#BCV:Jeremiah 32:44
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 32:44>Jeremiah 32:44</verse></h3>



Men shall buy (x) fields for money, and signed deeds, and seal [them], and take witnesses in the land
of Benjamin, and in the places about Jerusalem, and in the cities of Judah, and in the cities of the
mountains, and in the cities of the valley, and in the cities of the south: for I will cause their captives
to return, saith the LORD.



(x) This is the declaration of that which was spoken of in (<bcv=Jer 32:8>Jer 32:8</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 33</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 33:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 33:1>Jeremiah 33:1</verse></h3>

<page=1946>Moreover the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah the second time, while he was yet shut up in the



(a) court of the prison, saying,



(a) Which was in the king's house at Jerusalem, as in (<bcv=Jer 32:1-2>Jer 32:1-2</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 33:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 33:2>Jeremiah 33:2</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD the (b) maker of this, the LORD that formed it, to establish it; the LORD [is]
his name;



(b) That is, of Jerusalem, who as he made it, so will he preserve it, read (<bcv=Isa 37:26>Isa 37:26</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 33:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 33:4>Jeremiah 33:4</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD, the God of Israel, concerning the houses of this city, and concerning the
houses of the kings of Judah, which are thrown down by the (c) mounts, and by the sword;



(c) Read (<bcv=Jer 32:24>Jer 32:24</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 33:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 33:5>Jeremiah 33:5</verse></h3>



They come to (d) fight with the Chaldeans, but [it is] to fill them with the dead bodies of men,
whom I have slain in my anger and in my fury, and for all whose wickedness I have hid my (e) face
from this city.



(d) The Jews think to overcome the Chaldeans, but they seek their own destruction.



(e) He shows that God's favour is cause of all prosperity, as his anger is of all adversity.
#BCV:Jeremiah 33:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 33:6>Jeremiah 33:6</verse></h3>



Behold, I (f) will bring it health and cure, and I will cure them, and will reveal to them the abundance
of peace and truth.



(f) In the midst of his threatenings God remembers his, and comforts them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 33:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 33:8>Jeremiah 33:8</verse></h3>

<page=1947>And I will (g) cleanse them from all their iniquity, by which they have sinned against me; and I will
pardon all their iniquities, by which they have sinned, and by which they have transgressed against
me.




(g) Declaring that there is no deliverance nor joy, but where we feel remission of sins.

#BCV:Jeremiah 33:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 33:9>Jeremiah 33:9</verse></h3>



And it shall be to me a name of (h) joy, a praise and an honour before all the nations of the earth,
which shall hear all the good that I do to them: and they shall fear and tremble for all the goodness
and for all the prosperity that I procure to it.



(h) By which he shows that the Church in which is remission of sins, is God's honour and glory, so
that whoever is enemy to it, labours to dishonour God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 33:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 33:11>Jeremiah 33:11</verse></h3>



The voice of joy, and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom, and the voice of the bride,
the voice of them that shall say, (i) Praise the LORD of hosts: for the LORD [is] good; for his
mercy [endureth] for ever: [and] of them that shall bring the sacrifice of praise into the house of the
LORD. For I will cause to return the captives of the land, as at the first, saith the LORD.



(i) Which was a song appointed for the Levites to praise God by, (<bcv=1Ch 16:8>Ch1 16:8</bcv>; <bcv=Psa 105:1>Psa 105:1</bcv>;<bcv=Psa 106:1> Psa 106:1</bcv>; <bcv=Psa 107:1>Psa 107:1</bcv>; 
<bcv=Psa 118:1>Psa 118:1</bcv>;<bcv=Psa 136:1> Psa 136:1</bcv>;<bcv=Isa 12:4> Isa 12:4</bcv>)

#BCV:Jeremiah 33:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 33:13>Jeremiah 33:13</verse></h3>



In the cities of the (k) mountains, in the cities of the vale, and in the cities of the south, and in the
land of Benjamin, and in the places about Jerusalem, and in the cities of Judah, shall the flocks pass
again under the hands of him that counteth [them], saith the LORD.



(k) Meaning that all the country of Judah will be inhabited again.
#BCV:Jeremiah 33:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 33:15>Jeremiah 33:15</verse></h3>



In those days, and at that time, will I cause (l) the Branch of righteousness to grow up to David; and
he shall execute judgment and righteousness in the land.



(l) That is, I will send the Messiah, who will come of the house of David, of whom this prophecy is
meant, as testify all the Jews and that which is written, (<bcv=Jer 23:5>Jer 23:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 33:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 33:16>Jeremiah 33:16</verse></h3>

<page=1948>In those days shall Judah be saved, and Jerusalem shall dwell in safety: and this [is the name] by
which (m) she shall be called, The LORD our (n) righteousness.



(m) That is, Christ that will call his Church.



(n) That is, Christ is our Lord God, our righteousness, sanctification and redemption, (<bcv=1Co 1:30>Co1 1:30</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 33:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 33:18>Jeremiah 33:18</verse></h3>



Neither shall the priests the Levites lack a man before me to offer (o) burnt offerings, and to kindle
meat offerings, and to do sacrifice continually.



(o) That is, chiefly meant of the spiritual sacrifice of thanksgiving which is left to the Church in the
time of Christ, who was the everlasting priest and the everlasting sacrifice figured by the sacrifices
of the law.
#BCV:Jeremiah 33:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 33:20>Jeremiah 33:20</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; If ye can break my covenant of the (p) day, and my covenant of the night, so
that there should not be day and night in their season;



(p) Read (<bcv=Jer 31:35>Jer 31:35</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 33:24
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 33:24>Jeremiah 33:24</verse></h3>



Considerest thou not what (q) this people have spoken, saying, The two families which the LORD
hath chosen, he hath even cast them off ? thus they have despised my people, that they should be no
more a nation before them.



(q) Meaning, the Chaldeans and other infidels who thought God had utterly cast off Judah and
Israel or Benjamin, because he corrected them for a time for their amendment.

<h2>Jeremiah 34</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 34:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 34:1>Jeremiah 34:1</verse></h3>



The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD, when (a) Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and
all his army, and all the kingdoms of the earth of his dominion, and all the people, fought against
Jerusalem, and against all its cities, saying,



(a) Who commonly by Jeremiah was called Nebuchadrezzar and by others Nebuchadnezzar.
#BCV:Jeremiah 34:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 34:5>Jeremiah 34:5</verse></h3>

<page=1949>[But] thou shalt die in (b) peace: and with the burnings of thy fathers, the former kings who were
before thee, so shall they burn [incense] for thee; and they will lament thee, [saying], Ah (c) lord! for
I have pronounced the word, saith the LORD.



(b) Not of any violent death.



(c) The Jews will lament for you their lord and king.
#BCV:Jeremiah 34:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 34:8>Jeremiah 34:8</verse></h3>



[This is] the word that came to Jeremiah from the LORD, after king Zedekiah had made a covenant
with all the people who [were] at Jerusalem, (d) to proclaim liberty to them;



(d) When the enemy was at hand and they saw themselves in danger, they would seem holy, and so
began some kind of reformation: but soon after they uttered their hypocrisy.
#BCV:Jeremiah 34:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 34:9>Jeremiah 34:9</verse></h3>



That every man should release his male (e) servant, and every man his female servant, [being] a
Hebrew man or woman; that none should retain them in service, [that is], a Jew his brother.



(e) According to the law, (<bcv=Exo 21:2>Exo 21:2</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 15:12> Deu 15:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 34:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 34:15>Jeremiah 34:15</verse></h3>



And ye had now turned, and had done right in my sight, in proclaiming liberty every man to his
neighbour; and ye had made a covenant before me in (f) the house which is called by my name:



(f) Meaning in the temple to declare that it was a most solemn and straight covenant made in the
name of the Lord.
#BCV:Jeremiah 34:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 34:17>Jeremiah 34:17</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the LORD; Ye have not hearkened to me, in proclaiming liberty, every one to
his brother, and every man to his neighbour: behold, I proclaim a liberty for you, saith the LORD, to



(g) the sword, to the pestilence, and to the famine; and I will make you to be removed into all the
kingdoms of the earth.



(g) That is, I give the sword liberty to destroy you.
#BCV:Jeremiah 34:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 34:18>Jeremiah 34:18</verse></h3>

<page=1950>And I will give the men that have transgressed my covenant, who have not performed the words of
the covenant which they had made before me, when they (h) cut the calf in two, and passed between
the parts of it,



(h) Concerning the manner of solemn covenant which the ancients used by passing between the two
parts of a beast, to signify that the transgressor of the same covenant should be so divided in pieces,
read (<bcv=Gen 15:10>Gen 15:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 34:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 34:21>Jeremiah 34:21</verse></h3>



And Zedekiah king of Judah and his princes I will give into the hand of their enemies, and into the
hand of them that seek their life, and into the hand of the king of Babylon's army, which (i) are
gone up from you.



(i) To fight against the Egyptians, as in (<bcv=Jer 37:11>Jer 37:11</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 35</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 35:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 35:1>Jeremiah 35:1</verse></h3>

<page=1951>The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD in the days (a) of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah
king of Judah, saying,



(a) For the disposition and order of these prophecies. See<bcv=Jer 27:1> Jer 27:1</bcv>
#BCV:Jeremiah 35:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 35:2>Jeremiah 35:2</verse></h3>



Go to the house of the (b) Rechabites, and speak to them, and bring them into the house of the
LORD, into one of the chambers, and give them wine to drink.



(b) They came from Hobab, Moses father-in-law, who was no Israelite, but later joined with them in
the service of God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 35:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 35:4>Jeremiah 35:4</verse></h3>



And I brought them into the house of the LORD, into the chamber of the sons of Hanan, the son
of Igdaliah, a man (c) of God, who [was] by the chamber of the princes, which [was] above the
chamber of Maaseiah the son of Shallum, the keeper of the door:



(c) That is, a prophet.
#BCV:Jeremiah 35:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 35:5>Jeremiah 35:5</verse></h3>



And I set before the sons of the house of the Rechabites pots full of wine, and cups, and I (d) said
to them, Drink ye wine.



(d) The prophet says not. The Lord says thus, for then they ought to have obeyed, but he tends to
another end: that is, to declare their obedience to man, seeing the Jews would not obey God himself.
#BCV:Jeremiah 35:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 35:6>Jeremiah 35:6</verse></h3>



But they said, We will drink no wine: for (e) Jonadab the son of Rechab our father commanded us,
saying, Ye shall drink no wine, [neither ye], nor your sons for ever:



(e) Whom the king of Israel favoured for his zeal, (<bcv=II Ki 10:15>Kg2 10:15</bcv>).



(f) Teaching them by this to flee all opportunity for intemperancy, ambition and greed and that they
might know that they were strangers in the earth, and be ready to depart at all opportunity.
#BCV:Jeremiah 35:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 35:10>Jeremiah 35:10</verse></h3>

<page=1952>But we have dwelt in tents, and have obeyed, and done according to (g) all that Jonadab our father
commanded us.



(g) Which was now for the span of three hundred years from Jehu to Jehoiakim.
#BCV:Jeremiah 35:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 35:11>Jeremiah 35:11</verse></h3>



But it came to pass, when Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came up into the land, that we said,
Come, and let us go to Jerusalem for fear of the army of the Chaldeans, and for fear of the army of
the Syrians: so we (h) dwell at Jerusalem.



(h) Which declares that they were not so bound to their vow that it could not be broken for any
need, for where they were commanded to dwell in tents, they dwell now at Jerusalem for fear of the
wars.
#BCV:Jeremiah 35:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 35:13>Jeremiah 35:13</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Go and tell the men of Judah and the inhabitants
of Jerusalem, Will (i) ye not receive instruction to hearken to my words? saith the LORD.



(i) Whom I have chosen to be my children seeing these who were the children of a heathen, obeyed
the commandment of their father.
#BCV:Jeremiah 35:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 35:14>Jeremiah 35:14</verse></h3>



The words of Jonadab the son of Rechab, that he commanded his sons not to drink wine, are
performed; for to this day they drink none, but obey their father's commandment: however I have
spoken to you, (k) rising early and speaking; but ye hearkened not to me.



(k) I have most diligently exhorted and warned you both by myself and my prophet.
#BCV:Jeremiah 35:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 35:17>Jeremiah 35:17</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the LORD God of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will bring upon Judah
and upon all the inhabitants of Jerusalem all the evil that I have pronounced against them: because I
have (l) spoken to them, but they have not heard; and I have called to them, but they have not
answered.



(l) That is, by his prophets and ministers which shows that it is as much, as though he would speak
to us himself when he sends his ministers to speak in his Name.
#BCV:Jeremiah 35:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 35:19>Jeremiah 35:19</verse></h3>

<page=1953>Therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Jonadab the son of Rechab shall (m)
not lack a man to stand before me for ever.



(m) His posterity will continue and be in my favour for ever.

<h2>Jeremiah 36</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 36:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:1>Jeremiah 36:1</verse></h3>

<page=1954>And it came to pass in the fourth (a) year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah, [that] this
word came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying,



(a) See<bcv=Jer 25:1> Jer 25:1</bcv>
#BCV:Jeremiah 36:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:2>Jeremiah 36:2</verse></h3>



Take thee a scroll of a book, and write in it all the words that I have spoken to thee against Israel,
and against Judah, and against all the nations, from the day I spoke to thee, (b) from the days of
Josiah, even to this day.



(b) Which were twenty and three years, as in (<bcv=Jer 25:3>Jer 25:3</bcv>) counting from the thirteenth year of Josiah's
reign.
#BCV:Jeremiah 36:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:4>Jeremiah 36:4</verse></h3>



Then Jeremiah called Baruch the son of Neriah: and Baruch wrote (c) from the mouth of Jeremiah
all the words of the LORD, which he had spoken to him, upon a roll of a book.



(c) As he indicted.
#BCV:Jeremiah 36:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:5>Jeremiah 36:5</verse></h3>



And Jeremiah commanded Baruch, saying, I [am] (d) shut up; I cannot go into the house of the
LORD:



(d) Meaning, in prison through the malice of the priests.
#BCV:Jeremiah 36:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:6>Jeremiah 36:6</verse></h3>



Therefore go thou, and read in the scroll, which thou hast written from my mouth, the words of the
LORD in the ears of the people in the LORD'S house upon the (e) day of fasting: and also thou
shalt read them in the ears of all Judah that come out of their cities.



(e) Which was proclaimed for fear of the Babylonians, as their custom was when they feared war, or
any great plague of God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 36:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:7>Jeremiah 36:7</verse></h3>

<page=1955>It may be they will (f) present their supplication before the LORD, and will return every one from
his evil way: for great [is] the anger and the fury that the LORD hath pronounced against this people.



(f) He shows that fasting without prayer and repentance does nothing but is mere hypocrisy.
#BCV:Jeremiah 36:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:9>Jeremiah 36:9</verse></h3>



And it came to pass in the fifth (g) year of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah, in the ninth
month, [that] they proclaimed a fast before the LORD to all the people in Jerusalem, and to all the
people that came from the cities of Judah to Jerusalem.



(g) The fast was then proclaimed and Baruch read this rule which was a little before Jerusalem was
first taken, and then Jehoiakim and Daniel and his companions were led away captive.
#BCV:Jeremiah 36:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:10>Jeremiah 36:10</verse></h3>



Then Baruch read in the book the words of Jeremiah in the house of the LORD, in the chamber of
Gemariah the son of Shaphan the scribe, in the higher court, at the entrance of the (h) new gate of
the LORD'S house, in the ears of all the people.



(h) Which is the East gate of the temple.
#BCV:Jeremiah 36:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:16>Jeremiah 36:16</verse></h3>



Now it came to pass, when they had heard all the words, they were (i) afraid both one and another,
and said to Baruch, We will surely tell the king of all these words.



(i) The godly were afraid, seeing God so offended, and the wicked were astonished for the horror of
the punishment.
#BCV:Jeremiah 36:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:19>Jeremiah 36:19</verse></h3>



Then said the princes to Baruch, Go, (k) hide thyself, thou and Jeremiah; and let no man know
where ye are.



(k) They who were godly among the princes gave this counsel by whose means it is like that
Jeremiah was delivered for they knew the rage of the king and of the wicked to be such that they
could not escape without danger of their lives.
#BCV:Jeremiah 36:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:22>Jeremiah 36:22</verse></h3>



Now the king sat in the winterhouse in the (l) ninth month: and [there was a fire] on the hearth
burning before him.

<page=1956>(l) Which contained part of November and part of December.
#BCV:Jeremiah 36:24
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:24>Jeremiah 36:24</verse></h3>



Yet they were not afraid, nor tore (m) their garments, [neither] the king, nor any of his servants that
heard all these words.



(m) Showing that the wicked instead of repenting when they hear God's judgments, grow into
further malice against him and his word.
#BCV:Jeremiah 36:26
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:26>Jeremiah 36:26</verse></h3>



But the king commanded Jerahmeel the son of Hammelech, and Seraiah the son of Azriel, and
Shelemiah the son of Abdeel, to take Baruch the scribe and Jeremiah the prophet: but the LORD (n)
hid them.



(n) Thus we see the continual care that God has over his to preserve them from the rage of the
wicked.
#BCV:Jeremiah 36:28
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:28>Jeremiah 36:28</verse></h3>



Take thee again (o) another scroll, and write in it all the former words that were in the first scroll,
which Jehoiakim king of Judah hath burned.



(o) Though the wicked think to have abolished the word of God when they have burnt the book of
it, yet this declares that God will not only raise it up again but also increase it in greater abundance
to their condemnation as in (<bcv=Jer 36:32>Jer 36:32</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 36:29
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:29>Jeremiah 36:29</verse></h3>



And thou shalt say to Jehoiakim king of Judah, Thus saith the LORD; Thou hast burned this scroll,
saying, (p) Why hast thou written in it, saying, The king of Babylon shall certainly come and destroy
this land, and shall cause to cease from there man and beast?



(p) These are Jehoiakim's words.
#BCV:Jeremiah 36:30
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 36:30>Jeremiah 36:30</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the LORD concerning Jehoiakim king of Judah; He shall have (q) none to sit
upon the throne of David: and his (r) dead body shall be cast out in the day to the heat, and in the
night to the frost.



(q) Though Jehoiachin his son succeeded him, yet because he reigned but three months, it was
esteemed as no reign.

<page=1957>(r) See Jer 22:19

<h2>Jeremiah 37</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 37:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 37:1>Jeremiah 37:1</verse></h3>

<page=1958>And king Zedekiah the son of Josiah reigned instead of (a) Coniah the son of Jehoiakim, whom
Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon (b) made king in the land of Judah.



(a) Who was called Jehoiachin, or Jeconiah.



(b) And called him Zedekiah, while before his name was Mattaniah, (<bcv=II Ki 24:17>Kg2 24:17</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 37:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 37:3>Jeremiah 37:3</verse></h3>



And Zedekiah the king (c) sent Jehucal the son of Shelemiah and Zephaniah the son of Maaseiah
the priest to the prophet Jeremiah, saying, Pray now to the LORD our God for us.



(c) Because he was afraid of the Chaldeans who came against him.
#BCV:Jeremiah 37:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 37:4>Jeremiah 37:4</verse></h3>



Now Jeremiah came (d) in and went out among the people: for they had not put him into prison.



(d) That is, was out of prison and free.
#BCV:Jeremiah 37:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 37:5>Jeremiah 37:5</verse></h3>



Then Pharaoh's army had (e) come from Egypt: and when the Chaldeans that besieged Jerusalem
heard tidings of them, they departed from Jerusalem.



(e) To help the Jews.
#BCV:Jeremiah 37:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 37:12>Jeremiah 37:12</verse></h3>



Then Jeremiah went out of Jerusalem to go into the (f) land of Benjamin, to separate himself from
there in the midst of the people.



(f) As some think, to go to Anathoth his own town.
#BCV:Jeremiah 37:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 37:13>Jeremiah 37:13</verse></h3>



And when he was in the (g) gate of Benjamin, a captain of the guard [was] there, whose name [was]
Irijah, the son of Shelemiah, the son of Hananiah; and he took Jeremiah the prophet, saying, Thou
fallest away to the Chaldeans.



(g) By which men went into the country of Benjamin.
#BCV:Jeremiah 37:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 37:15>Jeremiah 37:15</verse></h3>

<page=1959>Wherefore the princes were angry with Jeremiah, and beat him, and put him in prison in the house
of Jonathan the scribe: for they had made that the (h) prison.



(h) Because it was a vile and straight prison.
#BCV:Jeremiah 37:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 37:21>Jeremiah 37:21</verse></h3>



Then Zedekiah the king commanded that they should commit Jeremiah into the court of the prison,
and that they should give him daily a piece of bread out of the baker's street, until all the (i) bread in
the city should be consumed. Thus Jeremiah remained in the court of the prison.



(i) That is, so long as there was any bread in the city: thus God provides for his, that he will cause
their enemies to preserve them to that end to which he has appointed them.

<h2>Jeremiah 38</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 38:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 38:1>Jeremiah 38:1</verse></h3>

<page=1960>Then Shephatiah the son of Mattan, and Gedaliah the son of Pashur, and Jucal the son of
Shelemiah, and Pashur the son of (a) Malchiah, heard the words that Jeremiah had spoken to all the
people, saying,



(a) For Zedekiah had sent these to Jeremiah to enquire at the Lord for the state of the country how
when Nebuchadnezzar came, as in (<bcv=Jer 21:1>Jer 21:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 38:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 38:2>Jeremiah 38:2</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD, He that remaineth in this city shall die by the sword, by the famine, and by
the pestilence: but he that goeth forth to the Chaldeans shall live; for he shall have his life for (b) a
prize, and shall live.



(b) Read (<bcv=Jer 21:9>Jer 21:9</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 45:5> Jer 45:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 38:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 38:4>Jeremiah 38:4</verse></h3>



Therefore the princes said to the king, We beseech thee, let this man be put to death: for thus he
weakeneth the hands of the men of war (c) that remain in this city, and the hands of all the people,
in speaking such words to them: for this man seeketh not the welfare of this people, but the harm.



(c) Thus we see how the wicked when they cannot abide to hear the truth of God's word, seek to
put the ministers to death, as transgressors of policies.
#BCV:Jeremiah 38:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 38:5>Jeremiah 38:5</verse></h3>



Then Zedekiah the king said, Behold, he [is] in your hand: for the king [is] not [he that] can do [any]



(d) thing against you.



(d) In which he grievously offended in that not only would he not hear the truth spoken by the
prophet, but also gave him to the lusts of the wicked to be cruelly treated.
#BCV:Jeremiah 38:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 38:7>Jeremiah 38:7</verse></h3>



Now when Ebedmelech the Cushite, one of the eunuchs who was in the king's house, heard that
they had put Jeremiah in the dungeon; the king then sitting in the (e) gate of Benjamin;



(e) To hear matters and give sentence.
#BCV:Jeremiah 38:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 38:9>Jeremiah 38:9</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 38:9
<h3><verse=jer 38:9>jer 38:9</verse></h3>



whom they have cast into the dungeon; and he is certain to die from hunger in the place where he is:
for [there is] no more bread in the city.



(f) By this is declared that the prophet found more favour at this strangers hands, than he did by all
them of his country, which was to their great condemnation.
#BCV:Jeremiah 38:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 38:13>Jeremiah 38:13</verse></h3>



So they drew up Jeremiah with cords, and took him out of the dungeon: and Jeremiah remained in
the (g) court of the prison.



(g) Where the king had set him before to be at more liberty, as in (<bcv=Jer 37:21>Jer 37:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 38:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 38:17>Jeremiah 38:17</verse></h3>



Then said Jeremiah to Zedekiah, Thus saith the LORD, the God of hosts, the God of Israel; If
thou wilt assuredly go forth to the king of Babylon's (h) princes, then thy soul shall live, and this city
shall not be burned with fire; and thou shalt live, and thy house:



(h) And yield yourself to them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 38:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 38:19>Jeremiah 38:19</verse></h3>



And Zedekiah the king said to Jeremiah, I am afraid of the Jews that have fallen to the Chaldeans,
lest they deliver me into their hand, and they (i) mock me.



(i) Which declares that he more feared the reproach of men than the threatenings of God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 38:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 38:22>Jeremiah 38:22</verse></h3>



And, behold, all the women that are (k) left in the king of Judah's house [shall be] brought forth to
the king of Babylon's princes, and those [women] shall say, Thy friends have set thee on, and have
prevailed against thee: thy feet are sunk in the mire, [and] they are turned away back.



(k) When Jeconiah and his mother with others were carried away, these women of the king's house
were left: who will be taken, says the prophet and tell the king of Babel how Zedekiah has been
seduced by his familiar friends and false prophets who have left him in the mire.
#BCV:Jeremiah 38:26
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 38:26>Jeremiah 38:26</verse></h3>

<page=1962>Then thou shalt say to them, I (l) presented my supplication before the king, that he would not cause
me to return to Jonathan's house, to die there.



(l) In this appears the infirmity of the prophet, who dissembled to save his life even though it was
not to the denial of his doctrine or to the hurt of any.

<h2>Jeremiah 39</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 39:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 39:2>Jeremiah 39:2</verse></h3>

<page=1963>[And] in the eleventh year of Zedekiah, in the fourth month, the ninth [day] of the month, the city
was broken (a) up.



(a) The gates and walls were broken down.
#BCV:Jeremiah 39:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 39:4>Jeremiah 39:4</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when Zedekiah the king of Judah saw them, and all the men of war, then they
fled, and went out of the city by night, by the way of the king's garden, by the (b) gate between the
two walls: and he went out the way of the plain.



(b) Which was a postern door, read (<bcv=II Ki 25:4>Kg2 25:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 39:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 39:5>Jeremiah 39:5</verse></h3>



But the Chaldeans' army pursued them, and overtook Zedekiah in the plains of Jericho: and when
they had taken him, they brought him to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon to (c) Riblah in the land
of Hamath, where he gave judgment upon him.



(c) Which is called Antioch in Syria.
#BCV:Jeremiah 39:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 39:10>Jeremiah 39:10</verse></h3>



But Nebuzaradan the captain of the guard left of the (d) poor of the people, who had nothing, in
the land of Judah, and gave them vineyards and fields at the same time.



(d) For the rich and the mighty who put their trust in their shifts and means, were by God's just
judgments most rigorously handled.
#BCV:Jeremiah 39:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 39:12>Jeremiah 39:12</verse></h3>



Take him, and look well to him, and do him no harm; but do to him (e) even as he shall say to thee.



(e) Thus God preserved his prophet by his means, whom he made the scourge to punish the king,
and them that were his enemies.
#BCV:Jeremiah 39:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 39:14>Jeremiah 39:14</verse></h3>

<page=1964>Even they sent, and took Jeremiah out of the court of the prison, and committed him to 
(f)Gedaliah the son of Ahikam the son of Shaphan, that he should carry him home: so he dwelt
among the people.



(f) Whom the king of Babel had now appointed governor over the rest of the Jews that he left
behind.
#BCV:Jeremiah 39:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 39:18>Jeremiah 39:18</verse></h3>



For I will surely deliver thee, and thou shalt not fall by the sword, but thy life shall be for a prize to
thee: because thou (g) hast put thy trust in me, saith the LORD.



(g) Thus God recompensed his zeal and favour which he showed to his prophet in his troubles.

<h2>Jeremiah 40</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 40:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 40:2>Jeremiah 40:2</verse></h3>


<page=1965>(a) And the captain of the guard took Jeremiah, and said to him, The LORD thy God hath
pronounced this evil upon this place.



(a) From (<bcv=Jer 40:2-42>Jeremiah 40:2-42</bcv>:7) it seems to be as a parenthesis and separated matter and there this
story begins again and this vision is declared what it was.
#BCV:Jeremiah 40:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 40:3>Jeremiah 40:3</verse></h3>



Now the LORD hath brought [it], and done according as he hath said: because ye have (b) sinned
against the LORD, and have not obeyed his voice, therefore this thing is come upon you.



(b) God moved this infidel to speak this to declare the great blindness and obstinacy of the Jews
who could not feel that which this heathen man confessed.
#BCV:Jeremiah 40:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 40:6>Jeremiah 40:6</verse></h3>



Then Jeremiah went to Gedaliah the son of Ahikam to (c) Mizpah; and dwelt with him among the
people that were left in the land.



(c) Which was a city of Judah.
#BCV:Jeremiah 40:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 40:7>Jeremiah 40:7</verse></h3>



Now when all the captains of the forces (d) who [were] in the fields, [even] they and their men,
heard that the king of Babylon had made Gedaliah the son of Ahikam governor in the land, and had
committed to him men, and women, and children, and of the poor of the land, of them that were
not carried away captive to Babylon;



(d) Which were scattered abroad for fear of the Chaldeans.
#BCV:Jeremiah 40:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 40:8>Jeremiah 40:8</verse></h3>



Then they came to Gedaliah to Mizpah, even (e) Ishmael the son of Nethaniah, and Johanan and
Jonathan the sons of Kareah, and Seraiah the son of Tanhumeth, and the sons of Ephai the
Netophathite, and Jezaniah the son of a Maachathite, they and their men.



(e) Who was of the king's blood and later slew him, (<bcv=Jer 41:2>Jer 41:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 40:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 40:11>Jeremiah 40:11</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 40:11
<h3><verse=jer 40:11>jer 40:11</verse></h3>



that [were] in all the countries, heard that the king of Babylon had left a remnant of Judah, and that
he had set over them Gedaliah the son of Ahikam the son of Shaphan;



(f) Which were fed also for fear of the Chaldeans.
#BCV:Jeremiah 40:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 40:14>Jeremiah 40:14</verse></h3>



And said to him, Dost thou certainly know that (g) Baalis the king of the Ammonites hath sent
Ishmael the son of Nethaniah to slay thee? But Gedaliah the son of Ahikam believed them not.



(g) For under the colour of entertaining Ishmael, he sought only to make them destroy one another.
#BCV:Jeremiah 40:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 40:16>Jeremiah 40:16</verse></h3>



But Gedaliah the son of Ahikam said to Johanan the son of Kareah, Thou shalt (h) not do this
thing: for thou speakest falsely of Ishmael.



(h) Thus the godly who think no harm to others are soonest deceived and never lack such as
conspire their destruction.

<h2>Jeremiah 41</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 41:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 41:1>Jeremiah 41:1</verse></h3>

<page=1967>Now it came to pass in the (a) seventh month, [that] Ishmael the son of Nethaniah the son of
Elishama, of the seed royal, and the princes of the (b) king, even ten men with him, came to
Gedaliah the son of Ahikam to Mizpah; and there they (c) ate bread together in Mizpah.



(a) The city was destroyed in the fourth month and in the seventh month, which contained part of
September and part of October, the governor Gedaliah was slain.



(b) Meaning, Zedekiah.



(c) They ate together as familiar friends.
#BCV:Jeremiah 41:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 41:5>Jeremiah 41:5</verse></h3>



That there came men from Shechem, from Shiloh, and from Samaria, [even] eighty men, having
their beards shaven, and their clothes torn, and having cut themselves, with (d) offerings and incense
in their hand, to bring [them] to the house of the LORD.



(d) For they thought that the temple had not been destroyed and therefore came up to the feast of
tabernacles but hearing of the burning of it in the way, they showed these signs of sorrow.
#BCV:Jeremiah 41:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 41:6>Jeremiah 41:6</verse></h3>



And Ishmael the son of Nethaniah went forth from Mizpah to meet them, weeping all along as he
went: and it came to pass, as he met them, he said to them, Come (e) to Gedaliah the son of Ahikam.



(e) For his death was kept secret, and he pretended that he lamented for the destruction of
Jerusalem and the temple but later slew them when they seemed to favour Gedaliah.
#BCV:Jeremiah 41:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 41:9>Jeremiah 41:9</verse></h3>



Now the pit into which Ishmael had cast all the dead bodies of the men, whom he had slain because
of Gedaliah, [was] that which Asa the king had (f) made for fear of Baasha king of Israel: [and]
Ishmael the son of Nethaniah filled it with [them that were] slain.



(f) Asa fortified Mizpah for fear of the enemy, and dug ditches and trenches, (<bcv=I Ki 15:22>Kg1 15:22</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 41:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 41:11>Jeremiah 41:11</verse></h3>



But when Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the (g) captains of the forces that [were] with him,
heard of all the evil that Ishmael the son of Nethaniah had done,

<page=1968>(g) Who had been captains under Zedekiah.
#BCV:Jeremiah 41:15
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 41:15>Jeremiah 41:15</verse></h3>



But Ishmael the son of Nethaniah escaped from Johanan with eight men, and went to the (h)
Ammonites.



(h) For Baalis the king of the Ammonites was the cause of this murder.
#BCV:Jeremiah 41:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 41:17>Jeremiah 41:17</verse></h3>



And they departed, and dwelt in the habitation of (i) Chimham, which is by Bethlehem, to go to
enter into Egypt,



(i) Which place David of old had given to Chimham the son of Barzillai the Gileadite, (<bcv=II Sa 19:38>Sa2 19:38</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 42</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 42:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 42:3>Jeremiah 42:3</verse></h3>

<page=1969>That the LORD thy God may show us the way in which we may walk, and the thing that we may (a)
do.



(a) This declares the nature of hypocrites who would know of God's word what they should do, but
will not follow it, unless it agrees with that thing which they have purposed to do.
#BCV:Jeremiah 42:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 42:5>Jeremiah 42:5</verse></h3>



Then they said to Jeremiah, (b) The LORD be a true and faithful witness between us, if we do not
even according to all things for which the LORD thy God shall send thee to us.



(b) There are as ready to abuse the Name of God and take it in vain as the hypocrites who colour
their falsehood, use it without all reverence and make it a means for them to deceive the simple and
the godly.
#BCV:Jeremiah 42:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 42:7>Jeremiah 42:7</verse></h3>




(c) And it came to pass after ten days, that the word of the LORD came to Jeremiah.



(c) Here is declared the vision and the opportunity of it, of which mention was made, (<bcv=Jer 40:1>Jer 40:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 42:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 42:10>Jeremiah 42:10</verse></h3>



If ye will still abide in this land, then will I build you, and not pull [you] down, and I will plant you,
and not pluck [you] up: for I (d) repent of the evil that I have done to you.



(d) See<bcv=Jer 18:8> Jer 18:8</bcv>
#BCV:Jeremiah 42:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 42:11>Jeremiah 42:11</verse></h3>



Be not afraid of the king of Babylon, of whom ye are afraid; be not afraid of him, saith the LORD:
for I [am] with you to save you, and to deliver you (e) from his hand.



(e) Because all king's hearts and ways are in his hands, he can turn them and dispose them as it
pleases him, and therefore they need not fear man, but only obey God, (<bcv=Pro 21:1>Pro 21:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 42:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 42:16>Jeremiah 42:16</verse></h3>

<page=1970>Then it shall come to pass, [that] the sword, which ye feared, (f) shall overtake you there in the land
of Egypt, and the famine, of which ye were afraid, shall follow close after you there in Egypt; and
there ye shall die.



(f) Thus God turns the policy of the wicked to their own destruction: for they thought themselves
sure in Egypt, and there Nebuchadnezzar destroyed them and the Egyptians, (<bcv=Jer 46:25>Jer 46:25</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 42:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 42:18>Jeremiah 42:18</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; As my anger and my fury hath been poured
forth upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem; so shall my fury be poured forth upon you, when ye shall
enter into Egypt: and ye shall be an execration, and an horror, and a (g) curse, and a reproach; and ye
shall see this place no more.



(g) Read (<bcv=Jer 26:6>Jer 26:6</bcv>) showing that this would come on them for their infidelity and stubbornness.
#BCV:Jeremiah 42:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 42:20>Jeremiah 42:20</verse></h3>



For ye were (h) hypocrites in your hearts, when ye sent me to the LORD your God, saying, Pray for
us to the LORD our God; and according to all that the LORD our God shall say, so declare to us,
and we will do [it].



(h) For you were fully intending to go into Egypt, whatever God spoke to the contrary.
#BCV:Jeremiah 42:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 42:22>Jeremiah 42:22</verse></h3>



Now therefore know certainly that ye shall die by the sword, by the famine, and by the pestilence, (i)
in the place where ye desire to go [and] to sojourn.



(i) That is, in Egypt.

<h2>Jeremiah 43</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 43:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 43:2>Jeremiah 43:2</verse></h3>

<page=1971>Then spoke (a) Azariah the son of Hoshaiah, and Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the (b) proud
men, saying to Jeremiah, (c) Thou speakest falsely: the LORD our God hath (d) not sent thee to say,
Go not into Egypt to sojourn there:



(a) Who was also called Jezaniah, (<bcv=Jer 42:1>Jer 42:1</bcv>).



(b) This declares that pride is the cause of rebellion and contempt of God's ministers.



(c) When the hypocrisy of the wicked is discovered, they burst forth into open rage: for they can
abide nothing but flattery, read (<bcv=Isa 30:10>Isa 30:10</bcv>).



(d) He shows what is the nature of the hypocrites: that is, to pretend that they would obey God and
embrace his word, if they were assured that his messenger spoke the truth: though indeed they are
most far from all obedience.
#BCV:Jeremiah 43:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 43:3>Jeremiah 43:3</verse></h3>



But Baruch the son of Neriah (e) setteth thee on against us, to deliver us into the hand of the
Chaldeans, that they may put us to death, and carry us away captives into Babylon.



(e) Thus the wicked not only contemn and hurt the messengers of God, but slander and speak
wickedly of all them that support or favour the godly.
#BCV:Jeremiah 43:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 43:5>Jeremiah 43:5</verse></h3>



But Johanan the son of Kareah, and all the captains of the forces, took all the remnant of Judah,
that had returned from all (f) nations, where they had been driven, to dwell in the land of Judah;



(f) As from the Moabites, Ammonites and Edomites, (<bcv=Jer 40:11>Jer 40:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 43:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 43:6>Jeremiah 43:6</verse></h3>



[Even] men, and women, and children, and the king's daughters, and every person that Nebuzaradan
the captain of the guard had left with Gedaliah the son of Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and
Jeremiah the (g) prophet, and Baruch the son of Neriah.



(g) When these wicked lead away by force.
#BCV:Jeremiah 43:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 43:7>Jeremiah 43:7</verse></h3>

<page=1972>So they came into the land of Egypt: for they obeyed not the voice of the LORD: thus they came
[even] to (h) Tahpanhes.



(h) A city in Egypt near to Nilus.
#BCV:Jeremiah 43:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 43:9>Jeremiah 43:9</verse></h3>



Take great stones in thy hand, and (i) hide them in the clay in the brickkiln, which [is] at the entrance
of Pharaoh's house in Tahpanhes, in the sight of the men of Judah;



(i) Which signified that Nebuchadnezzar would come even to the gates of Pharaoh, where his brick
kilns for his buildings were.
#BCV:Jeremiah 43:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 43:10>Jeremiah 43:10</verse></h3>



And say to them, Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will send and take
Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, (k) my servant, and will set his throne upon these stones that
I have hid; and he shall spread his royal pavilion over them.



(k) Read (<bcv=Jer 25:9>Jer 25:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 43:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 43:11>Jeremiah 43:11</verse></h3>



And when he cometh, he shall smite the land of Egypt, [and deliver] (l) such [as are] for death to
death; and such [as are] for captivity to captivity; and such [as are] for the sword to the sword.



(l) Everyone will be slain by the means that God has appointed, (<bcv=Jer 15:2>Jer 15:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 43:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 43:12>Jeremiah 43:12</verse></h3>



And I will kindle a fire in the houses of the gods of Egypt; and he shall burn them, and carry them
away captives: and he shall array himself with the land of Egypt, as a (m) shepherd putteth on his
garment; and he shall go forth from there in peace.



(m) Meaning most easily and suddenly will he carry the Egyptians away.

<h2>Jeremiah 44</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 44:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 44:1>Jeremiah 44:1</verse></h3>

<page=1973>The word that came to Jeremiah concerning all the Jews who dwell in the land of Egypt, who dwell
at Migdol, and at (a) Tahpanhes, and at Noph, and in the country of Pathros, saying,



(a) These were all famous and strange cities in Egypt, where the Jews that fled dwelt for their safety
but the prophet declares that there is no hold so strong that can preserve them from God's
vengeance.
#BCV:Jeremiah 44:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 44:4>Jeremiah 44:4</verse></h3>



Yet I sent to you all my servants the prophets, (b) rising early and sending [them], saying, O, do not
this abominable thing that I hate.



(b) Read (<bcv=Jer 7:25>Jer 7:25</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 25:3> Jer 25:3</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 29:19> Jer 29:19</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 32:33> Jer 32:33</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 44:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 44:6>Jeremiah 44:6</verse></h3>



Wherefore (c) my fury and my anger was poured forth, and was kindled in the cities of Judah and in
the streets of Jerusalem; and they are wasted [and] desolate, as at this day.



(c) He sets before their eyes God's judgments against Judah and Jerusalem for their idolatry that they
might beware by their example, and not with the same wickedness provoke the Lord: for then they
would be double punished.
#BCV:Jeremiah 44:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 44:9>Jeremiah 44:9</verse></h3>



Have ye forgotten the wickedness of your fathers, and the wickedness of the (d) kings of Judah, and
the wickedness of their wives, and your own wickedness, and the wickedness of your wives, which
they have committed in the land of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem?



(d) He shows that we ought to keep in memory God's plagues from the beginning that considering
them, we might live in his fear, and know if he did not spare our fathers, yea kings, princes, rulers
and also whole countries and nations for their sins that we vile worms cannot look to escape
punishment for ours.
#BCV:Jeremiah 44:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 44:12>Jeremiah 44:12</verse></h3>



And I will take the remnant of Judah, that (e) have set their faces to go into the land of Egypt to
sojourn there, and they shall all be consumed, [and] fall in the land of Egypt; they shall [even] be
consumed by the sword [and] by the famine: they shall die, from the least even to the greatest, by the
<page=1974>sword and by the famine: and they shall be an execration, [and] an horror, and a (f) curse, and a
reproach.



(e) Which have fully set their minds and are gone there on purpose. By which he excepts the
innocents as Jeremiah and Baruch that were forces: therefore the Lord shows that he will set his face
against them: that is, purposely destroy them.



(f) Read (<bcv=Jer 26:6>Jer 26:6</bcv>,<bcv=Jer 41:18> Jer 41:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 44:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 44:14>Jeremiah 44:14</verse></h3>



So that none of the remnant of Judah, who have gone into the land of Egypt to sojourn there, shall
escape or remain, that they should return into the land of Judah, to which they have a desire to
return to dwell there: for none shall return but (g) such as shall escape.



(g) Meaning but a few.
#BCV:Jeremiah 44:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 44:16>Jeremiah 44:16</verse></h3>



[As for] the word that thou hast spoken to us in the name of the LORD, we will (h) not hearken to
thee.



(h) This declares how dangerous a thing it is to decline once from God and to follow our own
fantasies: for Satan ever solicits such and does not leave them till he has brought them to extreme
impudency and madness, even to justify their wickedness against God and his prophets.
#BCV:Jeremiah 44:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 44:17>Jeremiah 44:17</verse></h3>



But we will certainly do whatever thing proceedeth from our own mouth, to burn incense to (i) the
queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings to her, as we have done, we, and our fathers, our
kings, and our princes, in the cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem: for [then] we had (k)
plenty of food, and were well, and saw no evil.



(i) Read (<bcv=Jer 7:18>Jer 7:18</bcv>) it seems that the papists gathered of this place "Salbe Regina" and "Regina caeli
latare" calling the virgin Mary Queen of heaven and so out of the blessed virgin and mother of our
saviour Christ, made an idol; for here the prophet condemns their idolatry.



(k) This is still the argument of idolaters who esteem religion by the belly and instead of
acknowledging God's works who sends both plenty and famine, health and sickness. They attribute
it to their idols and so dishonour God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 44:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 44:19>Jeremiah 44:19</verse></h3>

<page=1975>And when we burned incense to the queen of heaven, and poured out drink offerings to her, did we
make for her cakes to worship her, and pour out drink offerings to her, without (l) our husbands?



(l) This teaches us what a great danger it is for the husbands to permit their wives anything of which
they are not assured by God's word: for by it they take an opportunity to justify their doings and
their husbands will give an account of it before God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 44:25
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 44:25>Jeremiah 44:25</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, saying; Ye and your wives have both spoken with
your mouths, and fulfilled with your (m) hand, saying, We will surely perform our vows that we have
vowed, to burn incense to the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings to her: ye will surely
accomplish your vows, and surely perform your vows.



(m) You have committed double evil in making wicked vows, and in performing the same.
#BCV:Jeremiah 44:26
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 44:26>Jeremiah 44:26</verse></h3>



Therefore hear ye the word of the LORD, all Judah that dwell in the land of Egypt; Behold, I have
sworn by my great name, saith the LORD, that my name (n) shall no more be named in the mouth
of any man of Judah in all the land of Egypt, saying, The Lord GOD liveth.



(n) This declares a horrible plague toward idolaters, seeing that God will not vouchsafe to have his
Name mentioned by such as have polluted it.
#BCV:Jeremiah 44:28
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 44:28>Jeremiah 44:28</verse></h3>



Yet a small number that escape the sword (o) shall return from the land of Egypt into the land of
Judah, and all the remnant of Judah, that have gone into the land of Egypt to sojourn there, shall
know whose words shall stand, mine, or theirs.



(o) We see therefore that God has a perpetual care over his, wherever they are scattered: for though
they are but two or three, yet he will deliver them when he destroys his enemies.
#BCV:Jeremiah 44:30
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 44:30>Jeremiah 44:30</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will (p) give Pharaohhophra king of Egypt into the hand of his
enemies, and into the hand of them that seek his life; as I gave Zedekiah king of Judah into the
hand of Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, his enemy, and that sought his life.



(p) He shows the means by which they would be destroyed to assure them of the certainty of the
plague and yet they remain still in their obstinacy till they perish: for Josephus writes that five years
after the taking of Jerusalem, Nebuchadnezzar the younger having overcome the Moabites and the
<page=1976>Ammonites went against Egypt and slew the king and so brought these Jews and others into
Babylon.

<h2>Jeremiah 45</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 45:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 45:1>Jeremiah 45:1</verse></h3>

<page=1977>The word that Jeremiah the prophet spoke to (a) Baruch the son of Neriah, when he had written
these (b) words in a book from the mouth of Jeremiah, in the fourth year of Jehoiakim the son of
Josiah king of Judah, saying,



(a) Who was Jeremiah's disciple, and wrote his prophecies under him.



(b) Of which read (<bcv=Jer 36:9-10>Jer 36:9-10</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 45:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 45:3>Jeremiah 45:3</verse></h3>



Thou didst say, Woe is me now! for the LORD hath added grief to my sorrow; I (c) fainted in my
sighing, and I find no rest.



(c) Baruch moved with an inconsiderate zeal for Jeremiah's imprisonment, but chiefly for the
destruction of the people and the temple makes this lamentation, as in (<bcv=Psa 6:6>Psa 6:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 45:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 45:4>Jeremiah 45:4</verse></h3>



Thus shalt thou say to him, The LORD saith thus; Behold, [that] which I have built I will (d) break
down, and that which I have planted I will pluck up, even this whole land.



(d) Meaning that God could destroy this people, because he had planted them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 45:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 45:5>Jeremiah 45:5</verse></h3>



And seekest (e) thou great things for thyself ? seek [them] not: for, behold, I will bring evil upon all
flesh, saith the LORD: but thy life will I give to thee for (f) a prize in all places where thou goest.



(e) "Do you think to have honour and credit?" in which he shows his infirmity.



(f) Read (<bcv=Jer 21:9>Jer 21:9</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 46</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 46:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:1>Jeremiah 46:1</verse></h3>

<page=1978>The word of the LORD which came to Jeremiah the prophet against the (a) Gentiles;



(a) That is, nine nations which are around the land of Egypt.
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:2>Jeremiah 46:2</verse></h3>



Against Egypt, against the army of (b) Pharaohnecho king of Egypt, who was by the river
Euphrates in Carchemish, whom Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon smote in the fourth year of
Jehoiakim the son of Josiah king of Judah.



(b) Read (<bcv=II Ki 23:29>Kg2 23:29</bcv>,<bcv=2Ki 24:7> Kg2 24:7;</bcv> <bcv=2Ch 35:20>Ch2 35:20</bcv>).

#BCV:Jeremiah 46:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:3>Jeremiah 46:3</verse></h3>




(c) Order ye the buckler and shield, and draw near to battle.



(c) He warns the Egyptians to prepare themselves for war.
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:5>Jeremiah 46:5</verse></h3>




(d) Why have I seen them dismayed [and] turned away back? and their mighty ones are beaten down,
and have fled apace, and look not back: [for] fear [was] on all sides, saith the LORD.



(d) The prophet had this vision of the Egyptians who would be put to flight by the Babylonians at
Carchemish.
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:6>Jeremiah 46:6</verse></h3>



Let not the swift flee away, nor the mighty man escape; they shall stumble, and fall toward the (e)
north by the river Euphrates.



(e) The Babylonians will discomfit them at the river Euphrates.
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:7>Jeremiah 46:7</verse></h3>



Who [is] this [that] cometh up as (f) a flood, whose waters are moved as the rivers?



(f) He derides the boastings of the Egyptians, who thought by their riches and power to have
overcome all the world, alluding to the Nile river, which at certain times overflows the country of
Egypt.
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:9>Jeremiah 46:9</verse></h3>

<page=1979>Come up, ye horses; and rage, ye chariots; and let the mighty men come forth; (g) the Cushites and
the Libyans, that handle the shield; and the Lydians, that handle [and] bend the bow.



(g) For these nations took part with the Egyptians.
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:10>Jeremiah 46:10</verse></h3>



For this [is] the day of the Lord GOD of hosts, a day of vengeance, that he may avenge him of his
adversaries: and the sword shall devour, and it shall be satisfied and made drunk with their blood:
for the Lord GOD of hosts hath (h) a sacrifice in the north country (i) by the river Euphrates.



(h) He calls the slaughter of God's enemies a sacrifice, because it is a thing that pleases him, 
(<bcv=isa 34:6>Isa 34:6</bcv>).



(i) That is, at Carchemish.
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:11>Jeremiah 46:11</verse></h3>



Go up into Gilead, (k) and take balm, O virgin, the (l) daughter of Egypt: in vain shalt thou use
many (m) medicines; [for] thou shalt not be cured.



(k) For at Gilead there grew a most sovereign balm for wounds.



(l) So called, because Egypt had not yet been overcome by the enemy.



(m) He sows that no salve or medicine can prevail where God gives the wound.
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:16>Jeremiah 46:16</verse></h3>



He made many to fall, yea, one fell upon another: and they said, Arise, and let us go again to our (n)
own people, and to the land of our nativity, from the oppressing sword.



(n) As they who would repent that they helped the Egyptians.
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:17>Jeremiah 46:17</verse></h3>



They cried there, Pharaoh king of Egypt [is but] a noise; he (o) hath passed the time appointed.



(o) He derides them who blame their overthrow on lack of counsel and policy, or to fortune and not
observing of time: not considering that it is God's just judgment.
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:18>Jeremiah 46:18</verse></h3>

<page=1980>[As] I live, saith the King, whose name [is] the LORD of hosts, Surely as Tabor [is] among the
mountains, and as Carmel by the sea, [so] shall (p) he come.



(p) That is, that the Egyptians will be destroyed.
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:20>Jeremiah 46:20</verse></h3>



Egypt [is like] a very (q) fair heifer, [but] destruction cometh; it cometh out of the north.



(q) They have abundance of all things, and therefore are disobedient and proud.
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:21>Jeremiah 46:21</verse></h3>



Also her hired men (r) [are] in the midst of her like fatted bulls; for they also have turned back, [and]
have fled away together: they did not stand, because the day of their calamity had come upon them,
[and] the time of their judgment.



(r) As in (<bcv=Jer 46:9>Jer 46:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:22>Jeremiah 46:22</verse></h3>



Its voice shall go like a (s) serpent; for they shall march with an army, and come against (t) her with
axes, as hewers of wood.



(s) They will be scarcely able to speak for fear of the Chaldeans.



(t) Meaning Egypt.
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:23
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:23>Jeremiah 46:23</verse></h3>



They shall cut down (u) her forest, saith the LORD, though it cannot be searched; because they are
more than the



(x) grasshoppers, and [are] innumerable.



(u) That is, they will slay the great and mighty men of power.



(x) That is, Nebuchadnezzar's army.
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:25
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:25>Jeremiah 46:25</verse></h3>



The LORD of hosts, the God of Israel, saith; Behold, I will punish the (y) multitude of No, and
Pharaoh, and Egypt, with their gods, and their kings; even Pharaoh, and [all] them that trust in him:



(y) Some take the Hebrew word <transhebrew>Amon<english> for the kings name of No, that is, of Alexandria.

#BCV:Jeremiah 46:26
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:26>Jeremiah 46:26</verse></h3>

<page=1981>And I will deliver them into the hand of those that seek their lives, and into the hand of
Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, and into the hand of his servants: and afterward it shall be
inhabited, as (z) in the days of old, saith the LORD.



(z) Meaning, that after forty years Egypt would be restored, (<bcv=Isa 19:23>Isa 19:23</bcv>;<bcv=Ezek 29:13> Eze 29:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 46:27
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:27>Jeremiah 46:27</verse></h3>




(a) But fear not thou, O my servant Jacob, and be not dismayed, O Israel: for, behold, I will save
thee from afar, and thy seed from the land of their captivity; and Jacob shall return, and be in rest
and at ease, and none shall make [him] afraid.



(a) God comforts all his that were in captivity but especially the small Church of the Jews, of which
were Jeremiah and Baruch, who remained among the Egyptians: for the Lord never forsakes his, 
(<bcv=isa 44:2>Isa 44:2; <bcv=Jer 30:10>Jer 30:10</bcv>).

#BCV:Jeremiah 46:28
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 46:28>Jeremiah 46:28</verse></h3>



Fear thou not, O Jacob my servant, saith the LORD: for I [am] with thee; for I will make a full end
of all the nations where I have driven thee: but I will not make a full end of thee, but correct (b)
thee in measure; yet will I not leave thee wholly unpunished.



(b) See<bcv=Jer 20:14> Jer 20:14</bcv>

<h2>Jeremiah 47</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 47:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 47:1>Jeremiah 47:1</verse></h3>

<page=1982>The word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah the prophet against the Philistines, before Pharaoh
smote (a) Gaza.



(a) Or Azzah, a city of the Philistines.
#BCV:Jeremiah 47:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 47:2>Jeremiah 47:2</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; Behold, waters rise out of the (b) north, and shall be an overflowing flood,
and shall overflow the land, and all that is in it; the city, and them that dwell in it: then the men shall
cry, and all the inhabitants of the land shall wail.



(b) He means the army of the Chaldeans, (<bcv=Isa 8:7>Isa 8:7</bcv>,<bcv=Isaiah 8:8>8</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 47:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 47:3>Jeremiah 47:3</verse></h3>



At the noise of the stamping of the hoofs of his strong [horses], at the rushing of his chariots, [and
at] the rumbling of his wheels, (c) the fathers shall not look back to [their] children for feebleness of



(d) hands;



(c) The great fear will take away their natural affection.



(d) Their heart will so fail them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 47:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 47:4>Jeremiah 47:4</verse></h3>



Because of the day that cometh to lay waste all the Philistines, [and] to cut off from Tyre and Zidon
every helper that remaineth: for the LORD will lay waste the Philistines, the remnant of the country
of (e) Caphtor.



(e) For the Caphtorims had destroyed in old time the Philistines, and dwelt in their land even to
Gaza, (<bcv=Deu 2:23>Deu 2:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 47:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 47:5>Jeremiah 47:5</verse></h3>




(f) Baldness is come upon Gaza; Ashkelon is cut off [with] the remnant of their valley: how long
wilt (g) thou cut thyself ?



(f) They who shaved their heads for sorrow and heaviness.



(g) As the heathen used in their mourning, which the Lord forbade his people to do, (<bcv=Deu 14:1>Deu 14:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 47:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 47:7>Jeremiah 47:7</verse></h3>

<page=1983>How can it be (h) quiet, seeing the LORD hath given it a charge against Ashkelon, and against the
sea shore? there hath he appointed it.



(h) Meaning, that it is not profitable that the wicked should by any means escape or hinder the Lord
when he will take vengeance.

<h2>Jeremiah 48</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 48:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:1>Jeremiah 48:1</verse></h3>

<page=1984>Against Moab thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Woe to (a) Nebo! for it is laid waste:
Kiriathaim is confounded [and] taken: Misgab is confounded and dismayed.



(a) These were cities of the Moabites, which Nebuchadnezzar took before he went to fight against
Nebo King of Egypt.
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:2>Jeremiah 48:2</verse></h3>



[There shall be] no more praise of Moab: in Heshbon they have devised evil against it; (b) come, and
let us cut it off from [being] a nation. Also thou shalt be cut down, (c) O Madmen; the sword shall
pursue thee.



(b) Thus shall the Babylonians encourage one another.



(c) Read (<bcv=Isa 25:10>Isa 25:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:5>Jeremiah 48:5</verse></h3>



For in the ascent of (d) Luhith continual weeping shall go up; for in the descent of Horonaim the
enemies have heard a cry of destruction.



(d) Horonaim and Luhith were two places by which the Moabites would flee, (<bcv=Isa 15:5>Isa 15:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:6>Jeremiah 48:6</verse></h3>



Flee, save your lives, and be like the (e) bush in the wilderness.



(e) Hide yourselves in barren places, where the enemy will not pursue after you, (<bcv=Jer 17:6>Jer 17:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:7>Jeremiah 48:7</verse></h3>



For because thou hast trusted in thy (f) works and in thy treasures, thou also shalt be taken: and (g)
Chemosh shall go forth into captivity [with] his priests and his princes together.



(f) That is, the idols which are the works your hands. Some read, in your possessions, for so the
word may signify as in (<bcv=I Sa 25:2>Sa1 25:2</bcv>).



(g) Both your great idol and his maintainers will be led away captives so that they will then know that
it is in vain to look for help at idols, (<bcv=Isa 15:2>Isa 15:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:10>Jeremiah 48:10</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 48:10
<h3><verse=jer 48:10>jer 48:10</verse></h3>



back his sword from blood.



(h) He shows that God would punish the Chaldeans if they did not destroy the Egyptians, and that
with a courage, and calls this executing of his vengeance against his enemies, his work though the
Chaldeans sought another end, (<bcv=Isa 10:11>Isa 10:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:11>Jeremiah 48:11</verse></h3>



Moab hath been at ease from his youth, and he hath settled on his lees, and hath not been (i)
emptied from vessel to vessel, neither hath he gone into captivity: therefore his taste remained in
him, and his scent is not changed.



(i) Has not been removed as the Jews have, but have lived at ease, and as a wine that feeds itself on
his lees.
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:13>Jeremiah 48:13</verse></h3>



And Moab shall be ashamed of Chemosh, as the house of Israel was ashamed of (k) Bethel their
confidence.



(k) As the calf of Bethel was not able to deliver the Israelites no more will Chemosh deliver the
Moabites.
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:17>Jeremiah 48:17</verse></h3>



All ye that are about him, bemoan him; and all ye that know his name, say, (l) How is the strong staff
broken, [and] the beautiful rod!



(l) How are they destroyed that put their trust in their strength and riches?
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:20>Jeremiah 48:20</verse></h3>




(m) Moab is confounded; for it is broken down: wail and cry; tell ye it in Arnon, that Moab is laid
waste,



(m) Thus they who flee will answer.
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:25
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:25>Jeremiah 48:25</verse></h3>



The (n) horn of Moab is cut off, and his arm is broken, saith the LORD.



(n) That is, his power and strength.
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:26
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:26>Jeremiah 48:26</verse></h3>

<page=1986>Make ye him (o) drunk: for he magnified [himself] against the LORD: Moab also shall wallow in his
vomit, and he also shall be in derision.



(o) He willed the Chaldeans to lay afflictions enough on them till they are like drunken men that fall
down to their shame and are derided by all.
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:27
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:27>Jeremiah 48:27</verse></h3>



For was not Israel a derision to thee? was he found among thieves? for since thou hast spoken of
him, thou didst (p) leap for joy.



(p) You rejoiced to hear of his misery, (<bcv=Isa 16:6>Isa 16:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:30
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:30>Jeremiah 48:30</verse></h3>



I know his wrath, saith the LORD; (q) but [it shall] not [be] so; his lies shall not so effect [it].



(q) He will not execute his malice against his neighbours.
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:31
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:31>Jeremiah 48:31</verse></h3>




(r) Therefore will I wail for Moab, and I will cry out for all Moab; [my heart] shall mourn for the
men of Kirheres.



(r) Read (<bcv=Isa 16:7>Isa 16:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:32
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:32>Jeremiah 48:32</verse></h3>



O vine of Sibmah, I will weep for thee with the weeping of Jazer: thy plants have gone over the sea,
they reach [even] to the sea (s) of Jazer: the spoiler hath fallen upon thy summer fruits and upon thy
vintage.



(s) Which city was in the utmost border of Moab: and by this he signifies that the whole land would
be destroyed and the people carried away.
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:34
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:34>Jeremiah 48:34</verse></h3>



From the cry of Heshbon [even] to Elealeh, [and even] to Jahaz, have they uttered their voice, from
Zoar [even] to Horonaim, [as] an (t) heifer of three years old: for the waters also of Nimrim shall be
desolate.

<page=1987>(t) See Isa 15:5
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:36
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:36>Jeremiah 48:36</verse></h3>



Therefore my heart shall sound for Moab like (u) pipes, and my heart shall sound like pipes for the
men of Kirheres: because the riches [that] he hath gotten have perished.



(u) Their custom was to play on flutes or instruments, heavy and grave tunes at burials and in the
time of mourning, as in (<bcv=Mat 9:23>Mat 9:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:40
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:40>Jeremiah 48:40</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD; Behold, (x) he shall fly as an eagle, and shall spread his wings over Moab.



(x) That is, Nebuchadnezzar, as in (<bcv=Jer 49:22>Jer 49:22</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:43
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:43>Jeremiah 48:43</verse></h3>




(y) Fear, and the pit, and the snare, [shall be] upon thee, O inhabitant of Moab, saith the LORD.



(y) He that escapes one danger will be taken by another, (<bcv=Isa 24:17>Isa 24:17</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:45
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:45>Jeremiah 48:45</verse></h3>



They that fled stood under the shadow (z) of Heshbon because of the force: but (a) a fire shall
come out of Heshbon, and a flame from the midst of Sihon, and shall devour the corner of Moab,
and the crown of the head of the tumultuous ones.



(z) They fled there thinking to have comfort from the Amorites.



(a) The Amorites had destroyed the Moabites in times past, and now because of their power the
Moabites will seek them for help.
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:46
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:46>Jeremiah 48:46</verse></h3>



Woe be to thee, O Moab! the people of (b) Chemosh perisheth: for thy sons are taken captives, and
thy daughters captives.



(b) Who vaunted themselves of their idol as though he could have defended them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 48:47
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 48:47>Jeremiah 48:47</verse></h3>



Yet will I bring again the captivity of Moab in the (c) latter days, saith the LORD. Thus far [is] the
judgment of Moab.

<page=1988>(c) That is, they will be restored by the Messiah.

<h2>Jeremiah 49</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 49:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:1>Jeremiah 49:1</verse></h3>

<page=1989>Concerning the (a) Ammonites, thus saith the LORD; Hath Israel no sons? hath he no heir? why
[then] doth their king (b) inherit Gad, and his people dwell in (c) his cities?



(a) They were separated from the Moabites by the river Arnon, and after the ten tribes were carried
away into captivity, they invaded the country of Gad.



(b) That is, of the Ammonites.



(c) Meaning, of the Israelites.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:2>Jeremiah 49:2</verse></h3>



Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will cause an alarm of war to be heard in



(d) Rabbah of the Ammonites; and it shall be a desolate heap, and her daughters shall be burned
with fire: then shall Israel be heir to them that were his heirs, saith the LORD.



(d) Which was one of the chief cities of the Ammonites, as were Heshbon and Ai: there was also a
city called Heshbon among the Moabites.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:4>Jeremiah 49:4</verse></h3>



Why gloriest thou in the (e) valleys, thy flowing valley, O backsliding daughter? that trusted in her
treasures, [saying], Who shall come to me?



(e) In your plentiful country.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:5>Jeremiah 49:5</verse></h3>



Behold, I will bring (f) a fear upon thee, saith the Lord GOD of hosts, from all those that are about
thee; and ye shall be driven out every man right forth; and none shall gather up him that wandereth.



(f) Signifying that power and riches cannot prevail when God will execute his judgments.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:6>Jeremiah 49:6</verse></h3>



And (h) afterward I will bring again the captives of the children of Ammon, saith the LORD.



(h) In the time of Christ, when the Gentiles will be called.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:7>Jeremiah 49:7</verse></h3>

<page=1990>Concerning Edom, thus saith the LORD of hosts; [Is] wisdom no more in (i) Teman? hath counsel
perished from the prudent? hath their wisdom vanished?



(i) Which was a city of Edom, called by the name of Teman Eliphaz's son, who came from Esau.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:8>Jeremiah 49:8</verse></h3>



Flee ye, (k) turn back, dwell deep, O inhabitants of Dedan; for I will bring the calamity of Esau
upon him, the time [that] I will punish him.



(k) The enemies that pretend to flee, will turn back and invade your land, and possess it.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:9>Jeremiah 49:9</verse></h3>



If (l) grapegatherers come to thee, would they not leave [some] gleaning grapes? if thieves by night,
they will destroy till they have enough.



(l) Meaning that God would utterly destroy them and not spare one, though the grape gatherers
leave some grapes, and thieves seek but till they have enough, (<bcv=Oba 1:5>Oba 1:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:11>Jeremiah 49:11</verse></h3>



Leave thy (m) fatherless children, I will preserve [them] alive; and let thy widows trust in me.



(m) The destruction will be so great that there will be none left to take care of the widows and the
fatherless.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:12>Jeremiah 49:12</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD; (n) Behold, they whose judgment [was] not to drink of the cup have
assuredly drank; and [art] thou he [that] shall altogether go unpunished? thou shalt not go
unpunished, but thou shalt surely drink [of it].



(n) I have not spared my own people and how should I pity you?
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:13>Jeremiah 49:13</verse></h3>



For I have sworn by myself, saith the LORD, that (o) Bozrah shall become a desolation, a reproach,
a waste, and a curse; and all her cities shall be perpetual wastes.



(o) Which was a chief city of Edom.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:14>Jeremiah 49:14</verse></h3>

<page=1991>I have heard a rumour from the LORD, and an ambassador is sent to the nations, [saying], Gather ye
together, and come against (p) her, and rise up to the battle.



(p) That is, Bozrah.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:19>Jeremiah 49:19</verse></h3>



Behold, (q) he shall come up like a lion from the swelling of Jordan against the habitation of the
strong: but I will suddenly make (r) him run away from her: and who [is] a chosen [man, that] I may
appoint over her? for who [is] like me? and who will appoint me the time? and who [is] that (s)
shepherd that will stand before me?



(q) That is, Nebuchadnezzar after he has overcome Judah, which is meant by the swelling of Jordan,
will come against mount Seir and Edom.



(r) That is, the Israelites whom the Edomites kept as prisoners to hast away from there.



(s) The captain and governor of the army meaning Nebuchadnezzar.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:20>Jeremiah 49:20</verse></h3>



Therefore hear the counsel of the LORD, that he hath taken against Edom; and his purposes, that
he hath purposed against the inhabitants of Teman: Surely the least (t) of the flock shall draw them
out: surely (u) he shall make their habitations desolate with them.



(t) They will not be able to resist his petty captains.



(u) To visit the enemy.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:22
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:22>Jeremiah 49:22</verse></h3>



Behold, he shall come up and fly as the eagle, (x) and spread his wings over Bozrah: and at that day
shall the heart of the mighty men of Edom be as the heart of a woman in her pangs.



(x) As (<bcv=Jer 48:40>Jer 48:40</bcv>) was said of Moab.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:23
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:23>Jeremiah 49:23</verse></h3>



Concerning (y) Damascus. Hamath is confounded, and Arpad: for they have heard evil tidings: they
are fainthearted; [there is] sorrow on the sea; it cannot be quiet.



(y) Which was the chief city of Syria, by which he means the whole country.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:24
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:24>Jeremiah 49:24</verse></h3>

<page=1992>Damascus hath become feeble, [and] turneth herself to flee, (z) and fear hath seized on [her]:
anguish and sorrows have taken her, as a woman in travail.



(z) When she heard the sudden coming of the enemy.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:25
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:25>Jeremiah 49:25</verse></h3>



How is the (a) city of praise not left, the city of my joy!



(a) He speaks this in the person of the king and of them of the country who will wonder to see
Damascus the chief city destroyed.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:27
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:27>Jeremiah 49:27</verse></h3>



And I will kindle a fire in the wall of Damascus, and it shall consume the palaces of (b) Benhadad.



(b) Who was king of Syria, (<bcv=I Ki 20:26>Kg1 20:26</bcv>) and had built these palaces which were still called the palaces
of Benhadad.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:28
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:28>Jeremiah 49:28</verse></h3>



Concerning (c) Kedar, and concerning the kingdoms of Hazor, which Nebuchadnezzar king of
Babylon shall smite, thus saith the LORD; Arise ye, go up to Kedar, and lay waste the men of the
east.



(c) Meaning the Arabians, and their borders.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:29
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:29>Jeremiah 49:29</verse></h3>



Their tents and their flocks shall they take away: they shall take to themselves their (d) curtains, and
all their vessels, and their camels; and they shall cry to them, Fear [is] on every side.



(d) Because they used to dwell in tents, he names the things that belong to it.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:30
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:30>Jeremiah 49:30</verse></h3>



Flee, go far off, (e) dwell deep, O ye inhabitants of Hazor, saith the LORD; for Nebuchadnezzar
king of Babylon hath taken counsel against you, and hath conceived a purpose against you.



(e) The enemies will dwell in your places.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:31
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:31>Jeremiah 49:31</verse></h3>


<page=1993>(f) Arise, go up to the wealthy nation, that dwelleth without care, saith the LORD, which have
neither gates nor bars, [which] dwell alone.



(f) He shows that they of Hazor will flee to the Arabians for comfort but that will not help them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:34
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:34>Jeremiah 49:34</verse></h3>



The word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah the prophet against (g) Elam in the beginning of the
reign of Zedekiah king of Judah, saying,



(g) That is Persia, so called for Elam the son of Shem.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:35
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:35>Jeremiah 49:35</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Behold, I will break the (h) bow of Elam, the chief of their might.



(h) Because the Persians were good archers, he shows that the thing in which they put their trust
would not profit them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:38
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:38>Jeremiah 49:38</verse></h3>



And I will set my (i) throne in Elam, and will destroy from there the king and the princes, saith the
LORD.



(i) I will place Nebuchadnezzar there, and in these prophecies Jeremiah speaks of those countries
which would be subdued under the first of those four monarchies of which Daniel makes mention.
#BCV:Jeremiah 49:39
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 49:39>Jeremiah 49:39</verse></h3>



But it shall come to pass (k) in the latter days, [that] I will bring again the captives of Elam, saith the
LORD.



(k) This may be referred to the empire of the Persians and Medes after the Chaldeans or to the time
of Christ, as in (<bcv=Jer 48:47>Jer 48:47</bcv>).

<h2>Jeremiah 50</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 50:2
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:2>Jeremiah 50:2</verse></h3>

<page=1994>Declare ye among the nations, and proclaim, and set up a standard; proclaim, [and] conceal not: say,



(a) Babylon is taken, Bel is confounded, (b) Merodach is broken in pieces; her idols are confounded,
her images are broken in pieces.



(a) After God had used the Babylonian's service to punish other nations, this shows that their turn
will come to be punished.



(b) These were two of their chief idols.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:3>Jeremiah 50:3</verse></h3>



For out of the north (c) there cometh a nation against her, which shall make her land desolate, and
none shall dwell in it: they shall remove, they shall depart, both man and beast.



(c) That is, the Medes and the Persians.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:4
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:4>Jeremiah 50:4</verse></h3>



In those days, and in that time, saith the LORD, the children of Israel shall (d) come, they and the
children of Judah together, going and (e) weeping: they shall go, and seek the LORD their God.



(d) When Cyrus will take Babel.



(e) Read (<bcv=Jer 31:9>Jer 31:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:6>Jeremiah 50:6</verse></h3>



My people have been lost sheep: their (f) shepherds have caused them to go astray, they have turned
them away [on] the mountains: they have gone from (g) mountain to hill, they have forgotten their
restingplace.



(f) Their governors and ministers by their examples have provoked them to idolatry.



(g) They have committed idolatry in every place.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:7>Jeremiah 50:7</verse></h3>



All that found them have devoured them: and their adversaries said, We offend not, because they
have sinned against the LORD, (h) the habitation of justice, even the LORD, the hope of their
fathers.

<page=1995>(h) For the Lord dwelt among them in his temple and would have maintained them by his justice
against their enemies.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:8
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:8>Jeremiah 50:8</verse></h3>




(i) Flee out of the midst of Babylon, and go forth from the land of the Chaldeans, and be as the
male goats (k) before the flocks.



(i) When God will deliver you by Cyrus.



(k) That is, most forward and without fear.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:10>Jeremiah 50:10</verse></h3>



And Chaldea shall be a prey: all that spoil her (l) shall be satisfied, saith the LORD.



(l) Shall be made rich by it.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:11>Jeremiah 50:11</verse></h3>



Because ye were glad, because ye rejoiced, O ye destroyers of my heritage, because ye are grown fat
as the heifer at grass, (m) and bellow as bulls;



(m) For joy of the victory that you had against my people.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:13>Jeremiah 50:13</verse></h3>



Because of the wrath of the LORD it shall not be inhabited, but it shall be wholly desolate: every
one that goeth by Babylon shall be astonished, (n) and hiss at all her plagues.



(n) In sign of contempt and disdain.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:14
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:14>Jeremiah 50:14</verse></h3>




(o) Put yourselves in array against Babylon on every side: all ye that bend the bow, shoot at her, spare
no arrows: for she hath (p) sinned against the LORD.



(o) He speaks to the enemies the Medes and Persians.



(p) Though the Lord called the Babylonians his servants and their work his work in punishing his
people, yet because they did it not to glorify God, but for their own malice and to profit themselves,
it is here called sin.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:16
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:16>Jeremiah 50:16</verse></h3>

<page=1996>Cut off the (q) sower from Babylon, and him that handleth the sickle in the time of harvest: for fear
of the oppressing sword they shall turn every one to his people, and they shall flee every one to his
own land.



(q) Destroy her so that no one is left to work the ground or to take the fruit of it.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:17>Jeremiah 50:17</verse></h3>



Israel [is] a scattered sheep; the lions have driven [him] away: first the king of (r) Assyria hath
devoured him; and last this Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon hath broken his (s) bones.



(r) Meaning Tiglath-pilesar who carried away the ten tribes.



(s) He carried away the rest, that is Judah and Benjamin.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:21
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:21>Jeremiah 50:21</verse></h3>



Go up against the land of (t) Merathaim, [even] against it, and against the inhabitants of Pekod:
waste and utterly destroy after them, saith the LORD, and do according to all that I have
commanded thee.



(t) That is, Babylon: thus the Lord raised up Cyrus.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:23
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:23>Jeremiah 50:23</verse></h3>



How is the (u) hammer of the whole earth cut asunder and broken! how is Babylon become a
desolation among the nations!



(u) Nebuchadnezzar, who had smitten down all the princes and people of the world.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:27
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:27>Jeremiah 50:27</verse></h3>



Slay all her (x) bulls; let them go down to the slaughter: woe to them! for their day is come, the time
of their judgment.



(x) Her princes and mighty men.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:28
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:28>Jeremiah 50:28</verse></h3>



The voice of them that (y) flee and escape from the land of Babylon, to declare in Zion the
vengeance of the LORD our God, the vengeance of his temple.



(y) Of the Jews who would be delivered by Cyrus.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:34
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:34>Jeremiah 50:34</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 50:34
<h3><verse=jer 50:34>jer 50:34</verse></h3>



that he may give rest to the land, (z) and disquiet the inhabitants of Babylon.



(z) He shows that when God executes his judgments against his enemies, that his Church will then
have rest.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:38
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:38>Jeremiah 50:38</verse></h3>



A (a) drought [is] upon her waters; and they shall be dried up: for it [is] the land of graven images,
and they are mad over [their] idols.



(a) For Cyrus cut the river Euphrates and divided the course of it into many streams, so that it might
be passed over as though there had been no water: which he did by the counsel of two of
Belshazzar's captains, who conspired against their king, because he had gelded one of them in spite
and slain the son of the other.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:39
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:39>Jeremiah 50:39</verse></h3>



Therefore the (b) wild beasts of the desert with the wild beasts of the isles shall dwell [there], and
the owls shall dwell in it: and it shall be no more inhabited for ever; neither shall it be dwelt in from
generation to generation.



(b) Read (<bcv=Isa 13:21>Isa 13:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:41
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:41>Jeremiah 50:41</verse></h3>



Behold, a people shall come from the north, and a great nation, and many kings shall be raised up
from (c) the ends of the earth.



(c) Meaning, that the Persians would gather their army from many nations.
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:43
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:43>Jeremiah 50:43</verse></h3>



The king of Babylon hath heard the report of them, and his hands (d) became feeble: anguish took
hold of him, [and] pangs as of a woman in travail.



(d) Which is meant of Belshazzar, (<bcv=Dan 5:6>Dan 5:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 50:44
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 50:44>Jeremiah 50:44</verse></h3>



Behold, he shall come up like a lion from the swelling of Jordan to the habitation of the strong: but
I will make them suddenly run away from her: and who [is] a chosen [man, that] I may appoint over
<page=1998>her? for who [is] like me? and who will appoint me the time? and who [is] that (e) shepherd that will
stand before me?



(e) See<bcv=Jer 49:19> Jer 49:19</bcv>

<h2>Jeremiah 51</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 51:1
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:1>Jeremiah 51:1</verse></h3>

<page=1999>Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will raise up against Babylon, and against them that dwell in the
midst of them that rise against me, a destroying (a) wind;



(a) The Medes and Persians who will destroy them as the wind does the chaff.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:5
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:5>Jeremiah 51:5</verse></h3>



For Israel [hath] not [been] (b) forsaken, nor Judah by his God, by the LORD of hosts; though their
land was filled with sin against the Holy One of Israel.



(b) Though they were forsaken for a time, yet they were not utterly cast off as though their
husbands were dead.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:6
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:6>Jeremiah 51:6</verse></h3>




(c) Flee from the midst of Babylon, and deliver every man his soul: be not cut off in her iniquity; for
this [is] the time of the LORD'S vengeance; he will render to her a recompence.



(c) He shows that there remains nothing for them that abide in Babylon but destruction, (<bcv=Jer 17:6>Jer 17:6</bcv>, Jer
48:6).
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:7>Jeremiah 51:7</verse></h3>



Babylon [hath been] a golden cup in the (d) LORD'S hand, that made all the earth drunk: the
nations have drunk of her wine; therefore the nations are (e) mad.



(d) By whom the Lord poured out the drink of his vengeance, to whom it pleased him.



(e) For the great afflictions that they have felt by the Babylonians.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:9>Jeremiah 51:9</verse></h3>



We would have healed Babylon, but she is not healed: forsake her, and let (f) us go every one into his
own country: for her judgment reacheth to heaven, and is lifted [even] to the skies.



(f) Thus the people of God exhort one another to go to Zion and praise God.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:10
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:10>Jeremiah 51:10</verse></h3>

<page=2000>The LORD hath brought forth our (g) righteousness: come, and let us declare in Zion the work of
the LORD our God.



(g) In approving our cause and punishing our enemies.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:11
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:11>Jeremiah 51:11</verse></h3>



Make bright the arrows; gather the shields: the LORD hath raised up the spirit of the kings of the
Medes: for his purpose [is] against Babylon, to destroy it; because it [is] the vengeance of the LORD,
the (h) vengeance of his temple.



(h) For the wrong done to his people and to his temple, (<bcv=Jer 50:28>Jer 50:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:13
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:13>Jeremiah 51:13</verse></h3>



O thou that dwellest upon many (i) waters, abundant in treasures, thy end is come, [and] the measure
of thy covetousness.



(i) For the land of Chaldea was full of rivers which ran into the Euphrates.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:17>Jeremiah 51:17</verse></h3>



Every man is senseless by [his] (k) knowledge; every goldsmith is confounded by the graven image:
for his molten image [is] falsehood, and [there is] no breath in them.



(k) (<bcv=Jer 10:14>Jer 10:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:18>Jeremiah 51:18</verse></h3>



They [are] vanity, the work of errors: in the time of their (l) judgment they shall perish.



(l) When God will execute his vengeance.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:19
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:19>Jeremiah 51:19</verse></h3>



The (m) portion of Jacob [is] not like them; for he [is] the one who formed of all things: and [Israel
is] the rod of his inheritance: the LORD of hosts [is] his name.



(m) That is, the true God of Israel is not like these idols: for he can help when all things are
desperate.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:20>Jeremiah 51:20</verse></h3>

<page=2001>Thou [art] my (n) battle axe [and] weapons of war: for with thee will I break in pieces the nations,
and with thee will I destroy kingdoms;



(n) He means the Medes and Persians, as before he called the Babylonians his hammer, (<bcv=Jer 50:23>Jer 50:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:25
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:25>Jeremiah 51:25</verse></h3>



Behold, I [am] against thee, O destroying (o) mountain, saith the LORD, which destroyest all the
earth: and I will stretch out my hand upon thee, and roll thee down from the (p) rocks, and will
make thee a burnt mountain.



(o) Not that Babylon stood on a mountain but because it was strong and seemed invincible.



(p) From your strongholds and fortresses.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:27
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:27>Jeremiah 51:27</verse></h3>



Set ye up a standard in the land, blow the trumpet among the nations, prepare the nations against
her, call together against her the kingdoms of (q) Ararat, Minni, and Ashchenaz; appoint a captain
against her; cause the horses to come up as the rough caterpillers.



(q) By these three nations he means Armenia the higher, Armenia the lower and Scythia; for Cyrus
had gathered an army of various nations.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:31
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:31>Jeremiah 51:31</verse></h3>



One post shall run to meet another, and one messenger to meet another, to show the king of
Babylon that his city is taken at (r) [one] end,



(r) By turning the course of the river one side was made open and the reeds that grew in the water
were destroyed which Cyrus did by the counsel of Gobria and Gabatha Belshazzar's captains.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:33
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:33>Jeremiah 51:33</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; The daughter of Babylon [is] like a
threshingfloor, [it is] time to thresh her: yet a little while, and the time of her harvest (s) shall come.



(s) When she will be cut up and threshed.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:34
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:34>Jeremiah 51:34</verse></h3>



Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon hath (t) devoured me, he hath crushed me, he hath made me
an empty vessel, he hath swallowed me up like a dragon, he hath filled his belly with my delicacies,
he hath cast me out.

<page=2002>(t) This is spoken in the person of the Jews bewailing their state and the cruelty of the Babylonians.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:36
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:36>Jeremiah 51:36</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will plead thy (u) cause, and take vengeance for thee; and
I will dry up her sea, and make her springs dry.



(u) Thus the Lord esteemed the injury done to his Church as done to himself because their cause is
his.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:39
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:39>Jeremiah 51:39</verse></h3>



In their (x) heat I will make their feasts, and I will make them drunk, that they may rejoice, and sleep
a perpetual sleep, and not wake, saith the LORD.



(x) When they are inflamed with surfeiting and drinking, I will feast with them, alluding to
Belshazzar's banquet, (<bcv=Dan 5:2>Dan 5:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:41
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:41>Jeremiah 51:41</verse></h3>



How is (y) Sheshach taken! and how is the praise of the whole earth surprised! how is Babylon
become an horror among the nations!



(y) Meaning Babel as in (<bcv=Jer 25:26>Jer 25:26</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:42
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:42>Jeremiah 51:42</verse></h3>



The (z) sea is come up upon Babylon: she is covered with the multitude of its waves.



(z) The great army of the Medes and Persians.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:44
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:44>Jeremiah 51:44</verse></h3>



And I will punish Bel in Babylon, and I will bring forth out of his mouth that which (a) he hath
swallowed: and the nations shall not flow together any more to him: even the wall of Babylon shall
fall.



(a) That is, his gifts and presents which he had received as part of the spoil of other nations, and
which the idolaters brought to him from all countries.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:46
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:46>Jeremiah 51:46</verse></h3>

<page=2003>And lest your heart should faint, and ye should fear for the rumour that shall be heard in the land; a
rumour shall both come [one] (b) year, and after that in [another] year [shall come] a rumour, and
violence in the land, ruler against ruler.



(b) Meaning that Babylon would not be destroyed all at once but little by little would be brought to
nothing for the first year came the tidings, the next year the siege and in the third year it was taken:
yet this is not that horrible destruction which the prophets threatened in many places: for that was
after this when they rebelled and Darius over came them by the policy of Zopyrus, and hanged
three thousand gentlemen beside the common people.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:48
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:48>Jeremiah 51:48</verse></h3>



Then the heaven and (c) the earth, and all that [is] in them, shall sing for Babylon: for the spoilers
shall come to her from the north, saith the LORD.



(c) All creatures in heaven and earth will rejoice and praise God for the destruction of Babylon the
great enemy of his Church.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:49
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:49>Jeremiah 51:49</verse></h3>



As Babylon [hath caused] the (d) slain of Israel to fall, so at Babylon shall fall the slain of all the
earth.



(d) Babylon not only destroyed Israel, but many other nations.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:50
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:50>Jeremiah 51:50</verse></h3>



Ye that (e) have escaped the sword, go away, stand not still: remember the LORD afar off, and let
Jerusalem come into your mind.



(e) Yet that are now captives in Babylon.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:51
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:51>Jeremiah 51:51</verse></h3>



We are (f) confounded, because we have heard reproach: shame hath covered our faces: for
foreigners are come into the sanctuaries of the LORD'S house.



(f) He shows how they would remember Jerusalem by lamenting the miserable affliction of it.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:53
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:53>Jeremiah 51:53</verse></h3>



Though Babylon should mount up to (g) heaven, and though she should fortify the height of her
strength, [yet] from me shall spoilers come to her, saith the LORD.

<page=2004>(g) For the walls were two hundred feet high.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:57
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:57>Jeremiah 51:57</verse></h3>



And I will (h) make drunk her princes, and her wise [men], her captains, and her rulers, and her
mighty men: and they shall sleep a perpetual sleep, and not wake, saith the King, whose name [is] the
LORD of hosts.



(h) I will so astonish them by affliction that they will not know which way to turn themselves.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:58
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:58>Jeremiah 51:58</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD of hosts; The (i) broad walls of Babylon shall be utterly broken, and her high
gates shall be burned with fire; and the people shall labour in vain, and the people in the fire, and
they shall be weary.



(i) The thickness of the wall was fifty feet.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:59
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:59>Jeremiah 51:59</verse></h3>



The word which Jeremiah the prophet commanded Seraiah the son of Neriah, the son of Maaseiah,
when he went with Zedekiah the king of Judah into Babylon in the (k) fourth year of his reign. And
[this] Seraiah [was] a quiet prince.



(k) This was not in the time of his captivity but seven years before, when he went either to
congratulate Nebuchadnezzar or to intreat of some matters.
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:63
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:63>Jeremiah 51:63</verse></h3>



And it shall be, when thou hast finished reading this book, [that] thou shalt bind a (l) stone to it, and
cast it into the midst of Euphrates:



(l) John in his Revelation alludes to this place when he says that the angel took a millstone and cast it
into the sea: signifying by it the destruction of Babylon, (<bcv=Rev 18:21>Rev 18:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 51:64
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 51:64>Jeremiah 51:64</verse></h3>



And thou shalt say, Thus shall Babylon sink, and shall not rise from the evil that I will bring upon
her: and they shall (m) be weary. Thus far [are] the words of Jeremiah.



(m) They will not be able to resist but will labour in vain.

<h2>Jeremiah 52</h2>

#BCV:Jeremiah 52:3
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 52:3>Jeremiah 52:3</verse></h3>


<page=2005>(a) For through the anger of the LORD it came to pass in Jerusalem and Judah, till he had cast them
out from his presence, that Zedekiah rebelled against the king of Babylon.



(a) So the Lord punished sin by sin and gave him up to his rebellious heart, till he had brought the
enemy on him to lead him away and his people.
#BCV:Jeremiah 52:7
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 52:7>Jeremiah 52:7</verse></h3>



Then the city was broken up, and all the men of war fled, and went forth from the city by night by
the (b) way of the gate between the two walls, which [was] by the king's garden; (now the Chaldeans
[were] by the city on all sides:) and they went by the way of the plain.



(b) Read (<bcv=Jer 39:4>Jer 39:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 52:9
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 52:9>Jeremiah 52:9</verse></h3>



Then they took the king, and carried him to the king of Babylon to Riblah in the land of Hamath; (c)
where he gave judgment upon him.



(c) Read (<bcv=II Ki 25:6>Kg2 25:6</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 39:5> Jer 39:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 52:12
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 52:12>Jeremiah 52:12</verse></h3>



Now in the fifth month, in the (d) tenth [day] of the month, which [was] the nineteenth year of
Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, came Nebuzaradan, captain of the guard, [who] (e) served the
king of Babylon, into Jerusalem,



(d) In (<bcv=II Ki 25:8>Kg2 25:8</bcv>) is it called the seventh day, because the fire began then and so continued to the
tenth.



(e) That is, who was his servant, as in (<bcv=II Ki 25:8>Kg2 25:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 52:17
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 52:17>Jeremiah 52:17</verse></h3>



Also the (f) pillars of brass that [were] in the house of the LORD, and the bases, and the brasen sea
that [was] in the house of the LORD, the Chaldeans broke, and carried all the brass of them to
Babylon.



(f) Of these pillars read (<bcv=I Ki 7:15>Kg1 7:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 52:18
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 52:18>Jeremiah 52:18</verse></h3>

#BCV:jer 52:18
<h3><verse=jer 52:18>jer 52:18</verse></h3>



vessels of brass with which they ministered, they took away.



(g) Which were also made of brass, as in (<bcv=I Ki 7:45>Kg1 7:45</bcv>).
#BCV:Jeremiah 52:20
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 52:20>Jeremiah 52:20</verse></h3>



The two pillars, one sea, and twelve brasen bulls that [were] under the bases, which king Solomon
had made in the house of the LORD: the brass of all these vessels was without (h) weight.



(h) It was so much in quantity.
#BCV:Jeremiah 52:23
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 52:23>Jeremiah 52:23</verse></h3>



And there were ninety and six pomegranates on a side; [and] all the pomegranates upon the network
[were] an (i) hundred on all sides.



(i) But because of the roundness, no more could be seen but ninety-six.
#BCV:Jeremiah 52:24
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 52:24>Jeremiah 52:24</verse></h3>



And the captain of the guard took Seraiah the chief priest, and Zephaniah (k) the second priest, and
the three keepers of the door:



(k) Which served in the high priests stead, if he had any necessary impediment.
#BCV:Jeremiah 52:25
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 52:25>Jeremiah 52:25</verse></h3>



He took also out of the city an eunuch, who had the charge of the men of war; and (l) seven men
of them that were near the king's person, who were found in the city; and the principal scribe of the
host, who mustered the people of the land; and sixty men of the people of the land, that were
found in the midst of the city.



(l) In (<bcv=II Ki 25:19>Kg2 25:19</bcv>) is read but of five: those were the most excellent and the other two, which were not
so noble are not there mentioned with them.
#BCV:Jeremiah 52:28
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 52:28>Jeremiah 52:28</verse></h3>



This [is] the people whom Nebuchadnezzar carried away captive: in the (m) seventh year three
thousand Jews and three and twenty:



(m) Which was the latter end of the seventh year of his reign and the beginning of the eighth.
#BCV:Jeremiah 52:29
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 52:29>Jeremiah 52:29</verse></h3>

<page=2007>In the (n) eighteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar he carried away captive from Jerusalem eight hundred
thirty and two persons:



(n) To the latter end also of that year, and the beginning of the nineteenth.
#BCV:Jeremiah 52:31
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 52:31>Jeremiah 52:31</verse></h3>



And it came to pass in the seven and thirtieth year of the captivity of Jehoiachin king of Judah, in
the twelfth month, in the five and twentieth [day] of the month, [that] Evilmerodach king of
Babylon in the [first] year of his reign (o) lifted up the head of Jehoiachin king of Judah, and
brought him out of prison,



(o) That is, restored him to liberty and honour.
#BCV:Jeremiah 52:33
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 52:33>Jeremiah 52:33</verse></h3>



And changed his prison (p) garments: and he continually ate bread before him all the days of his life.



(p) And gave him princely apparel.
#BCV:Jeremiah 52:34
<h3><verse=Jeremiah 52:34>Jeremiah 52:34</verse></h3>



And [for] his food, there was a (q) continual diet given him of the king of Babylon, every day a
portion until the day of his death, all the days of his life.



(q) That is he had allowance in the court, and thus at length he had rest and quietness because he
obeyed Jeremiah the Prophet, while the others were cruelly ordered that would not obey him.

<h1>Lamentations</h1>


<h2>Lamentations 1</h2>

#BCV:Lamentations 1:1
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:1>Lamentations 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2009>How doth (a) the city sit desolate, [that was] full of people! [how] is she become as a widow! she
[that was] great among the nations, (b) [and] princess among the provinces, [how] is she become a
slave!



(a) The prophet wonders at the great judgment of God, seeing Jerusalem, which was so strong and
so full of people, to be now destroyed and desolate.



(b) Who had chief rule over many provinces and countries.
#BCV:Lamentations 1:2
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:2>Lamentations 1:2</verse></h3>



She weepeth bitterly in the (c) night, and her tears [are] on her cheeks: among all her (d) lovers she
hath none to comfort [her]: all her friends have dealt treacherously with her, they are become her
enemies.



(c) So that she takes no rest.



(d) Meaning the Egyptians and Assyrians who promised help.
#BCV:Lamentations 1:3
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:3>Lamentations 1:3</verse></h3>



Judah is gone into captivity because (e) of affliction, and because of great servitude: she dwelleth
among the nations, she findeth no rest: all her persecutors overtook her in the midst of distress.



(e) For her cruelty toward the poor and oppression of servants, (<bcv=Jer 34:11>Jer 34:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Lamentations 1:4
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:4>Lamentations 1:4</verse></h3>



The ways of Zion do mourn, because none come (f) to the solemn feasts: all her gates are desolate:
her priests sigh, her virgins are afflicted, and she [is] in bitterness.



(f) As they used to come up with mirth and joy, (<bcv=Psa 42:4>Psa 42:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Lamentations 1:5
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:5>Lamentations 1:5</verse></h3>



Her adversaries (g) are the head, her enemies prosper; for the LORD hath afflicted her for the
multitude of her transgressions: her children are gone into captivity before the enemy.

<page=2010>(g) That is, have rule over her, (<bcv=Deu 28:41>Deu 28:41).</bcv>

#BCV:Lamentations 1:6
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:6>Lamentations 1:6</verse></h3>



And from the daughter of Zion all her beauty hath departed: her princes are become (h) like harts
[that] find no pasture, and they are gone without strength before the pursuer.



(h) As men pined away with sorrow and that have no courage.
#BCV:Lamentations 1:7
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:7>Lamentations 1:7</verse></h3>



Jerusalem remembered in the days of her affliction and of her miseries all her pleasant things that
she had in the days of old, when her people (i) fell into the hand of the enemy, and none helped her:
the adversaries saw her, [and] mocked at her (k) sabbaths.



(i) In her misery she considered the great benefits and commodities that she had lost.



(k) At her religion and serving of God, which was the greatest grief to the godly.
#BCV:Lamentations 1:9
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:9>Lamentations 1:9</verse></h3>




(l) Her filthiness [is] in her skirts; she remembereth not her latter end; therefore she hath been
wonderfully abased: she had no comforter. O LORD, behold my affliction: for the enemy hath
magnified [himself].



(l) She is not ashamed of her sin, although it is revealed.
#BCV:Lamentations 1:10
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:10>Lamentations 1:10</verse></h3>



The adversary hath spread out his hand upon all her pleasant things: for she hath seen [that] the
nations entered into her sanctuary, whom (m) thou didst command [that] they should not enter into
thy congregation.



(m) God forbids the Ammonites and Moabites to enter into the congregation of the Lord, and
under them he comprehends all enemies, (<bcv=Deu 23:3>Deu 23:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Lamentations 1:12
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:12>Lamentations 1:12</verse></h3>



[Is it] nothing to you, all ye that pass by? behold, and see if there is any (n) sorrow like my sorrow,
which hath fallen upon me, with which the LORD hath afflicted [me] in the day of his fierce anger.



(n) Thus Jerusalem laments moving others to pity her and to learn by her example.
#BCV:Lamentations 1:13
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:13>Lamentations 1:13</verse></h3>

#BCV:lam 1:13
<h3><verse=lam 1:13>lam 1:13</verse></h3>



for my feet, he hath turned me back: he hath made me desolate [and] faint all the day.



(o) This declares that we should acknowledge God to be the author of all our afflictions to the
intent that we might seek him for remedy.
#BCV:Lamentations 1:14
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:14>Lamentations 1:14</verse></h3>



The (p) yoke of my transgressions is bound by his hand: they are knit together, [and] come up upon
my neck: he hath made my strength to fall, the Lord hath delivered me into [their] hands, [from
whom] I am not able to rise.



(p) My heavy sins are continually before his eyes as he that ties a thing to his hand for a reminder.
#BCV:Lamentations 1:15
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:15>Lamentations 1:15</verse></h3>



The Lord hath trodden under foot all my mighty [men] in the midst of me: he hath called an
assembly against me to crush my young men: the Lord hath trodden the virgin, the daughter of
Judah, [as] in a (q) winepress.



(q) He has trodden them underfoot as they tread grapes in the winepress.
#BCV:Lamentations 1:17
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:17>Lamentations 1:17</verse></h3>



Zion spreadeth forth her hands, [and there is] none to comfort her: the LORD hath commanded
concerning Jacob, [that] his adversaries [should be] around him: Jerusalem is (r) as a menstruous
woman among them.



(r) Who because of her pollution was separate from her husband, (<bcv=Lev 15:19>Lev 15:19</bcv>) and was abhorred for
the time.
#BCV:Lamentations 1:19
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:19>Lamentations 1:19</verse></h3>



I called for my lovers, [but] they deceived me: my priests and my elders gave up the ghost in the city,
while they (s) sought their food to relieve their souls.



(s) That is, they died for hunger.
#BCV:Lamentations 1:22
<h3><verse=Lamentations 1:22>Lamentations 1:22</verse></h3>




(t) Let all their wickedness come before thee; and do to them, as thou hast done to me for all my
transgressions: for my sighs [are] many, and my heart [is] faint.

<page=2012>(t) Of desiring vengeance against the enemy, See Jer 11:20 and See Jer 18:21

<h2>Lamentations 2</h2>

#BCV:Lamentations 2:1
<h3><verse=Lamentations 2:1>Lamentations 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2013>How hath the Lord (a) covered the daughter of Zion with a cloud in his anger, [and] cast down from



(b) heaven to the earth the beauty of Israel, and remembered not his (c) footstool in the day of his
anger!



(a) That is, brought her from prosperity to adversity.



(b) Has given her a most sore fall.



(c) Alluding to the temple, or to the ark of the covenant, which was called the footstool of the Lord,
because they would not set their minds so low, but lift up their heart toward the heavens.
#BCV:Lamentations 2:3
<h3><verse=Lamentations 2:3>Lamentations 2:3</verse></h3>



He hath cut off in [his] fierce anger all the (d) horn of Israel: he hath drawn back his (e) right hand
from before the enemy, and he burned against Jacob like a flaming fire, [which] devoureth on every
side.



(d) Meaning the glory and strength, as in (<bcv=I Sa 2:1>Sa1 2:1</bcv>).



(e) That is, his comfort which he was wont to send us, when our enemies oppressed us.
#BCV:Lamentations 2:4
<h3><verse=Lamentations 2:4>Lamentations 2:4</verse></h3>



He (f) hath bent his bow like an enemy: he stood with his right hand as an adversary, and slew all
[that were] pleasant to the eye in the tabernacle of the daughter of Zion: he poured out his fury like
fire.



(f) Showing that there is no remedy but destruction where God is the enemy.

#BCV:Lamentations 2:7
<h3><verse=Lamentations 2:7>Lamentations 2:7</verse></h3>

The Lord hath cast off his altar, he hath abhorred his sanctuary, he hath given up into the hand of
the enemy the walls of her palaces; they have made a (g) noise in the house of the LORD, as in the
day of a solemn feast.

(g) As the people were accustomed to praising God to the solemn feasts with a loud voice, so now
the enemies blaspheme him with shouting and cry.

#BCV:Lamentations 2:8
<h3><verse=Lamentations 2:8>Lamentations 2:8</verse></h3>

<page=2014>The LORD hath purposed to destroy the wall of the daughter of Zion: he hath stretched out a line,
he hath not withdrawn his hand from destroying: therefore he made the rampart (h) and the wall to
lament; they languished together.

(h) This is a figurative speech as that was, when he said the ways lamented, (<bcv=Lam 1:4>Lam 1:4</bcv>) meaning that
this sorrow was so great that the insensible things had their part of it.

#BCV:Lamentations 2:13
<h3><verse=Lamentations 2:13>Lamentations 2:13</verse></h3>

(i) What thing shall I take to witness for thee? what thing shall I liken to thee, O daughter of
Jerusalem? what shall I equal to thee, that I may comfort thee, O virgin daughter of Zion? for thy
breach [is] great like the sea: who can heal thee?

(i) Meaning that her calamity was so evident that it needed no witnesses.

#BCV:Lamentations 2:14
<h3><verse=Lamentations 2:14>Lamentations 2:14</verse></h3>

Thy prophets have (k) seen vain and foolish things for thee: and they have not revealed thy iniquity,
to turn away thy captivity; but have seen for thee false burdens and causes of banishment.

(k) Because the false prophets called themselves seers, as the others were called, therefore he shows
that they saw amiss because they did not reprove the people's faults, but flattered them in their sins,
which was the cause of their destruction.

<h2>Lamentations 3</h2>

#BCV:Lamentations 3:1
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:1>Lamentations 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2015>I [am] the man [that] hath seen (a) affliction by the rod of his wrath.

(a) The prophet complains of the punishments and afflictions that he endured by the false prophets
and hypocrites when he declared the destruction of Jerusalem, as in (<bcv=Jer 20:1-2>Jer 20:1-2</bcv>).

#BCV:Lamentations 3:5
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:5>Lamentations 3:5</verse></h3>

He hath (b) built against me, and surrounded [me] with gall and labour.

(b) He speaks this as one that felt God's heavy judgment, which he greatly feared, and therefore sets
them out with this diversity of words.

#BCV:Lamentations 3:8
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:8>Lamentations 3:8</verse></h3>

Also when I cry and shout, he shutteth out my (c) prayer.

(c) This is a great temptation for the godly when they do not see the fruit of their prayers and causes
them to think that they are not heard, which thing God uses so that they might pray more earnestly
and often.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:9
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:9>Lamentations 3:9</verse></h3>



He hath (d) inclosed my ways with hewn stone, he hath made my paths crooked.



(d) And keeps me in hold as a prisoner.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:10
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:10>Lamentations 3:10</verse></h3>




(e) He [was] to me [as] a bear lying in wait, [and as] a lion in secret places.



(e) He has no pity on me.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:15
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:15>Lamentations 3:15</verse></h3>



He hath filled me with bitterness, he hath made me drunk with (f) wormwood.



(f) With great anguish and sorrow he has made me lose my sense.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:18
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:18>Lamentations 3:18</verse></h3>

<page=2016>And I said, My strength and my (g) hope hath perished from the LORD:



(g) Thus with pain he was driven to and fro between hope and despair, as the godly often are, yet in
the end the spirit gets the victory.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:20
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:20>Lamentations 3:20</verse></h3>



My soul hath [them] still in remembrance, and is humbled (h) in me.



(h) He shows that God thus uses to exercise his, to the intent that by this they may know themselves,
and feel his mercies.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:22
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:22>Lamentations 3:22</verse></h3>



[It is of] the LORD'S (i) mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.



(i) Considering the wickedness of man it is a marvel that any remains alive: but only that God for his
own mercies sake and for his promise will ever have his Church remain, though they are never so
few in number, (<bcv=Isa 1:9>Isa 1:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Lamentations 3:23
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:23>Lamentations 3:23</verse></h3>



[They are] new (k) every morning: great [is] thy faithfulness.



(k) We feel your benefits daily.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:24
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:24>Lamentations 3:24</verse></h3>



The LORD [is] my (l) portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him.



(l) The godly put their whole confidence in God, and therefore look for no other inheritance, as (Psa
16:5).
#BCV:Lamentations 3:27
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:27>Lamentations 3:27</verse></h3>



[It is] good for a man that he should bear the yoke in his (m) youth.



(m) He shows that we can never begin too soon to be exercised under the cross, that when the
afflictions grow greater, our patience also by experience may be stronger.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:28
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:28>Lamentations 3:28</verse></h3>



He sitteth alone (n) and keepeth silence, because he hath borne [it] upon him.



(n) He murmurs not against God, but is patient.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:29
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:29>Lamentations 3:29</verse></h3>

<page=2017>He putteth his (o) mouth in the dust; if there may be hope.



(o) He humbles himself as they who fall down with their face to the ground, and so with patience
waits for comfort.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:33
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:33>Lamentations 3:33</verse></h3>



For he doth not (p) afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men.



(p) He takes no pleasure in it, but does it of necessity for our amendment, when he permits the
wicked to oppress the poor.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:36
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:36>Lamentations 3:36</verse></h3>



To subvert a man in his cause, the Lord (q) approveth not.



(q) He does not delight in it.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:37
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:37>Lamentations 3:37</verse></h3>



Who [is] he [that] saith, and it cometh to pass, [when] the Lord (r) commandeth [it] not?



(r) He shows that nothing is done without God's providence.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:38
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:38>Lamentations 3:38</verse></h3>



Out of the mouth of the most High proceedeth not (s) evil and good?



(s) That is, adversity and prosperity, (<bcv=Amos 3:6>Amo 3:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Lamentations 3:39
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:39>Lamentations 3:39</verse></h3>



Why doth a living (t) man complain, a man for the punishment of his sins?



(t) When God afflicts him.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:41
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:41>Lamentations 3:41</verse></h3>



Let us lift up (u) our heart with [our] hands to God in the heavens.



(u) That is, both hearts and hands: for else to lift up the hands is but hypocrisy.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:51
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:51>Lamentations 3:51</verse></h3>

<page=2018>My eye (x) affecteth my heart because of all the daughters of my city.



(x) I am overcome with sore weeping for all my people.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:53
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:53>Lamentations 3:53</verse></h3>



They have cut off my life (y) in the dungeon, and cast a stone upon me.



(y) Read (<bcv=Jer 37:16>Jer 37:16</bcv>) how he was in the miry dungeon.
#BCV:Lamentations 3:58
<h3><verse=Lamentations 3:58>Lamentations 3:58</verse></h3>



O Lord, thou hast pleaded the causes of my (z) soul; thou hast redeemed my life.



(z) Meaning, the reason his life was in danger.

<h2>Lamentations 4</h2>

#BCV:Lamentations 4:1
<h3><verse=Lamentations 4:1>Lamentations 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=2019>How is the (a) gold become dim! [how] is the most fine gold changed! the stones of the sanctuary
are poured out at the head of every street.



(a) By the gold he means the princes, as by the stones he understands the priests.
#BCV:Lamentations 4:2
<h3><verse=Lamentations 4:2>Lamentations 4:2</verse></h3>



The precious sons of Zion, comparable to fine gold, how are they esteemed as earthen (b) pitchers,
the work of the hands of the potter!



(b) Which are of small value and have no honour.
#BCV:Lamentations 4:3
<h3><verse=Lamentations 4:3>Lamentations 4:3</verse></h3>



Even the sea monsters (c) draw out the breast, they nurse their young ones: the daughter of my
people [is become] cruel, like the (d) ostriches in the wilderness.



(c) Though the dragons are cruel, yet they pity their young, and nourish them, which Jerusalem does
not do.



(d) The women forsake their children as the ostrich does her eggs, (<bcv=Job 39:17>Job 39:17</bcv>).
#BCV:Lamentations 4:8
<h3><verse=Lamentations 4:8>Lamentations 4:8</verse></h3>



Their (e) visage is blacker than a coal; they are not known in the streets: their skin cleaveth to their
bones; it is withered, it is become like a stick.



(e) They who were before most in God's favour are now in greatest abomination to him.
#BCV:Lamentations 4:9
<h3><verse=Lamentations 4:9>Lamentations 4:9</verse></h3>



[They that are] slain with the sword are better than [they that are] slain with hunger: for these pine
away, stricken through for [lack of] the (f) fruits of the field.



(f) For lack of food they pine away and consume.
#BCV:Lamentations 4:13
<h3><verse=Lamentations 4:13>Lamentations 4:13</verse></h3>



For the sins of her prophets, [and] the iniquities of her priests, that have shed the blood of the just
in the midst of (g) her,

<page=2020>(g) He means that these things are come to pass therefore, contrary to all men's expectations.
#BCV:Lamentations 4:14
<h3><verse=Lamentations 4:14>Lamentations 4:14</verse></h3>



They have wandered [as] blind [men] (h) in the streets, they have polluted themselves with blood, so
that (i) men could not touch their garments.



(h) Some refer this to the blind men who as they went, stumbled on the blood, of which the city was
full.



(i) Meaning the heathen who came to destroy them could not abide them.
#BCV:Lamentations 4:16
<h3><verse=Lamentations 4:16>Lamentations 4:16</verse></h3>



The anger of the LORD hath divided them; he will no longer regard them: (k) they respected not
the persons of the priests, they favoured not the elders.



(k) That is, the enemies.
#BCV:Lamentations 4:17
<h3><verse=Lamentations 4:17>Lamentations 4:17</verse></h3>



As for us, our eyes as yet failed for our vain help: in our watching we have watched for (l) a nation
[that] could not save [us].



(l) He shows two principal causes for their destruction: their cruelty and their vain confidence in
man: for they trusted in the help of the Egyptians.
#BCV:Lamentations 4:20
<h3><verse=Lamentations 4:20>Lamentations 4:20</verse></h3>



The (m) breath of our nostrils, the anointed of the LORD, was taken in their pits, of whom we said,
Under his shadow we shall live among the nations.



(m) Our king Josiah, in whom stood our hope of God's favour and on whom depended our state
and life was slain, whom he calls anointed, because he was a figure of Christ.
#BCV:Lamentations 4:21
<h3><verse=Lamentations 4:21>Lamentations 4:21</verse></h3>



Rejoice and be glad, (n) O daughter of Edom, that dwellest in the land of Uz; the cup also shall pass
through to thee: thou shalt be drunk, and shalt make thyself naked.



(n) This is spoken by derision.
#BCV:Lamentations 4:22
<h3><verse=Lamentations 4:22>Lamentations 4:22</verse></h3>

<page=2021>The punishment of thy iniquity is accomplished, O daughter of Zion; he (o) will no more carry thee
away into captivity: he will visit thy iniquity, O daughter of Edom; he will disclose thy sins.



(o) He comforts the Church because after seventy years their sorrows will have an end while the
wicked would be tormented for ever.

<h2>Lamentations 5</h2>

#BCV:Lamentations 5:1
<h3><verse=Lamentations 5:1>Lamentations 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=2022>Remember, O LORD, what is come upon us: (a) consider, and behold our reproach.



(a) This prayer as is thought, was made when some of the people were carried away captive, others
such as the poorest remained, and some went into Egypt and other places for comfort, though it
seems that the prophet foreseeing their miseries to come, thus prayed.
#BCV:Lamentations 5:4
<h3><verse=Lamentations 5:4>Lamentations 5:4</verse></h3>



We have drank our (b) water for money; our wood is sold to us.



(b) Meaning their extreme servitude and bondage.
#BCV:Lamentations 5:6
<h3><verse=Lamentations 5:6>Lamentations 5:6</verse></h3>



We have given the (c) hand [to] the Egyptians, [and to] the Assyrians, to be satisfied with bread.



(c) We are joined in league and amity with them, or have submitted ourselves to them.
#BCV:Lamentations 5:7
<h3><verse=Lamentations 5:7>Lamentations 5:7</verse></h3>



Our fathers have sinned, [and are] not; and we have borne (d) their iniquities.



(d) As our fathers have been punished for their sins: so we that are guilty of the same sins are
punished.
#BCV:Lamentations 5:9
<h3><verse=Lamentations 5:9>Lamentations 5:9</verse></h3>



We procured our bread with [the peril of] our lives because of the sword (e) of the wilderness.



(e) Because of the enemy that came from the wilderness and would not suffer us to go and seek our
necessary food.
#BCV:Lamentations 5:12
<h3><verse=Lamentations 5:12>Lamentations 5:12</verse></h3>



Princes were hung up by (f) their hand: the faces of elders were not honoured.



(f) That is, by the enemies hand.
#BCV:Lamentations 5:13
<h3><verse=Lamentations 5:13>Lamentations 5:13</verse></h3>

<page=2023>They took the young men to grind, and the children fell under (g) the wood.



(g) Their slavery was so great, that they were not able to abide it.
#BCV:Lamentations 5:14
<h3><verse=Lamentations 5:14>Lamentations 5:14</verse></h3>



The elders have ceased from the (h) gate, the young men from their music.



(h) There were no more laws nor form of commonwealth.
#BCV:Lamentations 5:17
<h3><verse=Lamentations 5:17>Lamentations 5:17</verse></h3>



For this our heart is faint; for these [things] our (i) eyes are dim.



(i) With weeping.
#BCV:Lamentations 5:19
<h3><verse=Lamentations 5:19>Lamentations 5:19</verse></h3>



Thou, O LORD, remainest for (k) ever; thy throne from generation to generation.



(k) And therefore your covenant and mercies can never fail.
#BCV:Lamentations 5:21
<h3><verse=Lamentations 5:21>Lamentations 5:21</verse></h3>




(l) Turn thou us to thee, O LORD, and we shall be turned; renew our days as of old.



(l) By which is declared that it is not in man's power to turn to God, but is only his work to convert
us, and thus God works in us before we can turn to him, (<bcv=Jer 31:18>Jer 31:18</bcv>).

<h1>Ezekiel</h1>


<h2>Ezekiel 1</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 1:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 1:1>Ezekiel 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2025>Now it came to pass in the (a) thirtieth year, in the fourth [month], in the fifth [day] of the month,
as I [was] among the captives by the river of (b) Chebar, [that] the heavens were opened, and I saw
visions of (c) God.



The Argument - After Jehoiachin by the counsel of Jeremiah and Ezekiel had yielded himself to
Nebuchadnezzar, and so went into captivity with his mother and various of his princes and of the
people, some began to repent and murmur that they had obeyed the prophet's counsel, as though
the things which they had prophesied would not come to pass, and therefore their estate would still
be miserable under the Chaldeans. By reason of which he confirms his former prophecies, declaring
by new visions and revelations shown to him, that the city would most certainly be destroyed, and
the people grievously tormented by God's plagues, in so much that they who remained would be
brought into cruel bondage. Lest the godly despair in these great troubles, he assures them that God
will deliver his church at his appointed time and also destroy their enemies, who either afflicted them,
or rejoiced in their miseries. The effect of the one and the other would be chiefly performed under
Christ, of whom in this book are many notable promises, and in whom the glory of the new temple
would perfectly be restored. He prophesied these things in Chaldea, at the same time that Jeremiah
prophesied in Judah, and there began in the fifth year of Jehoiachin's captivity.



(a) After that the book of the Law as found, which was the eighteenth year of the reign of Josiah, so
that twenty-five years after this book was found, Jeconiah was led away captive with Ezekiel and
many of the people, who the first year later saw these visions.



(b) Which was a part of Euphrates so called.



(c) That is, notable and excellent visions, so that it might be known, it was no natural dream but
came from God.
#BCV:Ezekiel 1:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 1:3>Ezekiel 1:3</verse></h3>



The word of the LORD came expressly to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, in the land of the
Chaldeans by the river Chebar; and the (d) hand of the LORD was there upon him.



(d) That is, the spirit of prophecy, as in (<bcv=Ezek 3:22>Eze 3:22</bcv>,<bcv=Ezek 37:1> Eze 37:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 1:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 1:4>Ezekiel 1:4</verse></h3>

<page=2026>And I looked, and, behold, a (e) whirlwind came out of the north, a great cloud, and a fire infolding
itself, and a brightness [was] about it, and from the midst of it as the colour of amber, from the
midst of the fire.



(e) By this diversity of words he signifies the fearful judgment of God and the great afflictions that
would come on Jerusalem.
#BCV:Ezekiel 1:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 1:5>Ezekiel 1:5</verse></h3>



Also from the midst of it [came] the likeness of (f) four living beings. And this [was] their
appearance; they had the likeness of a man.



(f) Which were the four Cherubims that represented the glory of God, as in (<bcv=Ezek 11:22>Eze 11:22</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 1:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 1:9>Ezekiel 1:9</verse></h3>



Their wings [were] (g) joined one to another; they turned not when they went; they went every one
straight forward.



(g) The wing of the one touched the wing of the other.
#BCV:Ezekiel 1:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 1:10>Ezekiel 1:10</verse></h3>



As for the likeness of their faces, they four had (h) the face of a man, and the face of a lion, on the
right side: and they four had the face of an ox on the left side; they four also had the face of an
eagle.



(h) Every cherubim had four faces, the face of a man, and of a lion on the right side, and the face
of a bullock and of an eagle on the left side.
#BCV:Ezekiel 1:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 1:14>Ezekiel 1:14</verse></h3>



And the living beings ran and (i) returned as the appearance of a flash of lightning.



(i) That is, when they had executed God's will: for before they returned not till God had changed the
state of things.
#BCV:Ezekiel 1:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 1:16>Ezekiel 1:16</verse></h3>



The appearance of the wheels and their work [was] like the colour of a (k) beryl: and they four had
one likeness: and their appearance and their work [was] as it were a wheel in the middle of a wheel.



(k) The Hebrew word is <transhebrew>tarshish<english> meaning that the colour was like the Cilician Sea, or a precious
stone so called.

#BCV:Ezekiel 1:24
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 1:24>Ezekiel 1:24</verse></h3>

<page=2027>And when they went, I heard the noise of their (l) wings, like the noise of great waters, as the voice
of the Almighty, the voice of speech, as the noise of an host: when they stood, they (m) let down
their wings.



(l) Which declared the swiftness and the fearfulness of God's judgments.



(m) Which signified that they had no power of themselves, but only waited to execute God's
commandment.
#BCV:Ezekiel 1:27
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 1:27>Ezekiel 1:27</verse></h3>



And I saw as the colour of amber, as the appearance of fire (n) around within it, from the
appearance of his loins even upward, and from the appearance of his loins even downward, I saw as
it were the appearance of fire, and it had brightness on all sides.



(n) By which was signified a terrible judgment toward the earth.
#BCV:Ezekiel 1:28
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 1:28>Ezekiel 1:28</verse></h3>



As the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud in the day of rain, so [was] the appearance of the
brightness around. This [was] the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD. And when I
saw [it], I fell (o) upon my face, and I heard a voice of one speaking.



(o) Considering the majesty of God, and the weakness of flesh.

<h2>Ezekiel 2</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 2:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 2:1>Ezekiel 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2028>And (a) he said to me, (b) Son of man, stand upon thy feet, and I will speak to thee.



(a) That is, the Lord.



(b) Meaning, man who is but earth and ashes, which was to humble him, and cause him to consider
his own state, and God's grace.
#BCV:Ezekiel 2:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 2:2>Ezekiel 2:2</verse></h3>




(c) And the spirit entered into me when he spoke to me, and set me upon my feet, that I heard him
that spoke to me.



(c) So that he could not abide God's presence, till God's Spirit entered into him.
#BCV:Ezekiel 2:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 2:5>Ezekiel 2:5</verse></h3>



And they, whether they will hear, or whether they will forbear, (for they [are] a rebellious house,) yet
shall know that (d) there hath been a prophet among them.



(d) This declares on the one part God's great affection toward his people, that despite their rebellion,
yet he will send his prophets among them, and admonishes his ministers on the other part that they
cease not to do their duty, though the people are never so obstinate: for the word of God will be
either to their salvation or greater condemnation.
#BCV:Ezekiel 2:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 2:6>Ezekiel 2:6</verse></h3>



And thou, son of man, (e) be not afraid of them, neither be afraid of their words, though briers and
thorns [are] with thee, and thou dost dwell among scorpions: be not afraid of their words, nor be
dismayed at their looks, though they [are] a rebellious house.



(e) Read (<bcv=Jer 1:17>Jer 1:17</bcv>). He shows that for no afflictions they would cease to do their duties.
#BCV:Ezekiel 2:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 2:8>Ezekiel 2:8</verse></h3>



But thou, son of man, hear what I say to thee; Be not thou rebellious like that rebellious house:
open thy mouth, and (f) eat that which I give thee.



(f) He not only exhorts him to his duty but also gives him the means with which he may be able to
execute it.
#BCV:Ezekiel 2:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 2:10>Ezekiel 2:10</verse></h3>

#BCV:eze 2:10
<h3><verse=eze 2:10>eze 2:10</verse></h3>



lamentations, and mourning, and woe.



(g) He shows what were the contents of this book: that is, God's judgments against the wicked.

<h2>Ezekiel 3</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 3:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 3:1>Ezekiel 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2030>Moreover he said to me, Son of man, eat what thou findest; (a) eat this scroll, and go speak to the
house of Israel.



(a) By which is meant that no one is fit to be God's messenger before he has received the word of
God in his heart, as in (<bcv=Ezek 3:10>Eze 3:10</bcv>) and has a zeal to it, and delight in it, as in (<bcv=Jer 15:16>Jer 15:16</bcv>;<bcv=Rev 10:10> Rev 10:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 3:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 3:8>Ezekiel 3:8</verse></h3>



Behold, I have made thy (b) face strong against their faces, and thy forehead strong against their
foreheads.



(b) God promises his assistance to his ministers, and that he will give them boldness and constancy
in their calling, (<bcv=Isa 50:7>Isa 50:7</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 1:18> Jer 1:18</bcv>;<bcv=Mic 3:8> Mic 3:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 3:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 3:10>Ezekiel 3:10</verse></h3>



Moreover he said to me, Son of man, all my words that I shall speak to thee (c) receive in thy heart,
and hear with thy ears.



(c) He shows what is meant by the eating of the book, which is that the ministers of God may speak
nothing from themselves, but only that which they have received from the Lord.
#BCV:Ezekiel 3:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 3:12>Ezekiel 3:12</verse></h3>



Then the spirit lifted me up, and I heard behind me a voice of a great rushing, [saying], (d) Blessed
[be] the glory of the LORD from his place.



(d) By which he signifies that God's glory would not be diminished, although he departed out of his
temple, for this declared that the city and temple would be destroyed.
#BCV:Ezekiel 3:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 3:14>Ezekiel 3:14</verse></h3>



So the spirit lifted me up, and took me away, and I (e) went in bitterness, in the heat of my spirit; but
the hand of the LORD was strong upon me.



(e) This shows that there is always an infirmity of the flesh which can never be ready to render full
obedience to God, and also God's grace who ever assists his, and overcomes their rebellious
affections.
#BCV:Ezekiel 3:15
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 3:15>Ezekiel 3:15</verse></h3>

#BCV:eze 3:15
<h3><verse=eze 3:15>eze 3:15</verse></h3>



where they sat, and remained there overwhelmed among them (g) seven days.



(f) Which was a place by Euphrates where the Jews were prisoners.



(g) Declaring here that God's ministers must with advisement and deliberation utter his judgments.
#BCV:Ezekiel 3:17
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 3:17>Ezekiel 3:17</verse></h3>



Son of man, I have made thee a (h) watchman to the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my
mouth, and give them warning from me.



(h) Of this read (<bcv=Ezek 33:2>Eze 33:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 3:20
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 3:20>Ezekiel 3:20</verse></h3>



Again, When a (i) righteous [man] doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a



(k) stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in
his sin, and his (l) righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I
require at thy hand.



(i) If he that has been instructed in the right way turn back.



(k) I will give him up to a reprobate mind, (<bcv=Rom 1:28>Rom 1:28</bcv>).



(l) Which seemed to have been done in faith, and was not.
#BCV:Ezekiel 3:22
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 3:22>Ezekiel 3:22</verse></h3>



And the (m) hand of the LORD was there upon me; and he said to me, Arise, go forth into the
plain, and I will there talk with thee.



(m) That is, the Spirit of prophecy.
#BCV:Ezekiel 3:23
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 3:23>Ezekiel 3:23</verse></h3>



Then I arose, and went forth into the plain: and, behold, the (n) glory of the LORD stood there, as
the glory which I saw by the river of Chebar: and I fell on my face.



(n) Meaning, the vision of the cherubims and the wheels.
#BCV:Ezekiel 3:24
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 3:24>Ezekiel 3:24</verse></h3>

<page=2032>Then the spirit entered into me, and (o) set me upon my feet, and spoke with me, and said to me,
Go, (p) shut thyself within thy house.



(o) Read (<bcv=Jer 2:2>Jer 2:2</bcv>).



(p) Signifying that not only would he not profit, but they would grievously trouble and afflict him.
#BCV:Ezekiel 3:26
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 3:26>Ezekiel 3:26</verse></h3>



And I will make thy tongue (q) cleave to the roof of thy mouth, that thou shalt be dumb, and shalt
not be to them a reprover: for they [are] a rebellious house.



(q) Which declares the terrible plague of the Lord, when God stops the mouths of his ministers and
that all such are the rods of his vengeance that do it.

<h2>Ezekiel 4</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 4:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 4:3>Ezekiel 4:3</verse></h3>

<page=2033>Moreover take thou to thee an (a) iron pan, and set it [for] a wall of iron between thee and the city:
and set thy face against it, and it shall be besieged, and thou shalt lay siege against it. This [shall be] a
sign to the house of Israel.



(a) Which signified the stubbornness and hardness of their hearts.
#BCV:Ezekiel 4:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 4:4>Ezekiel 4:4</verse></h3>



Lie thou also upon thy left side, and lay the iniquity of the (b) house of Israel upon it: [according] to
the number of the days that thou shalt lie upon it thou shalt bear their iniquity.



(b) By this he represented the idolatry and sin of the ten tribes (for Samaria was on his left hand
from Babylon) and how they had remained in it three hundred and ninety years.
#BCV:Ezekiel 4:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 4:6>Ezekiel 4:6</verse></h3>



And when thou hast accomplished them, lie again on thy (c) right side, and thou shalt bear the
iniquity of the house of Judah forty days: I have appointed thee each day for a year.



(c) Which declared Judah, who had now from the time of Josiah slept in their sins forty years.
#BCV:Ezekiel 4:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 4:7>Ezekiel 4:7</verse></h3>



Therefore thou shalt set thy face toward the siege of Jerusalem, and thy (d) arm [shall be] uncovered,
and thou shalt prophesy against it.



(d) In token of a speedy vengeance.
#BCV:Ezekiel 4:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 4:8>Ezekiel 4:8</verse></h3>



And, behold, I will lay (e) cords upon thee, and thou shalt not turn thee from one side to another, till
thou hast ended the days of thy siege.



(e) The people would so straightly be besieged that they would not be able to turn them.
#BCV:Ezekiel 4:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 4:9>Ezekiel 4:9</verse></h3>

<page=2034>Take thou also to thee wheat, and barley, and beans, and lentiles, and millet, (f) and spelt, and put
them in one vessel, and make thee bread of them, [according] to the number of the days that thou
shalt lie upon thy side, (g) three hundred and ninety days shalt thou eat of it.



(f) Meaning that the famine would be so great that they would be glad to eat whatever they could get.



(g) Which were fourteen months that the city was besieged and this was as many days as Israel
sinned years.
#BCV:Ezekiel 4:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 4:10>Ezekiel 4:10</verse></h3>



And thy food which thou shalt eat [shall be] by weight, (h) twenty shekels a day: from time to time
shalt thou eat it.



(h) Which make a pound.
#BCV:Ezekiel 4:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 4:11>Ezekiel 4:11</verse></h3>



Thou shalt drink also water by measure, the sixth part of (i) an hin: from time to time shalt thou
drink.



(i) See<bcv=Exo 29:40> Exo 29:40</bcv>
#BCV:Ezekiel 4:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 4:12>Ezekiel 4:12</verse></h3>



And thou shalt eat it [as] barley cakes, and thou shalt bake it (k) with dung that cometh out of man,
in their sight.



(k) Signifying by this the great scarcity of fuel and matter to burn.
#BCV:Ezekiel 4:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 4:14>Ezekiel 4:14</verse></h3>



Then said I, Ah Lord GOD! behold, my soul hath not been polluted: for from my youth even till
now have I not eaten of that which dieth of itself, or is torn in pieces; neither hath (l) abominable
flesh come into my mouth.



(l) Much less such vile corruption.
#BCV:Ezekiel 4:15
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 4:15>Ezekiel 4:15</verse></h3>



Then he said to me, Lo, I have given thee cow's (m) dung for man's dung, and thou shalt prepare thy
bread with them.



(m) To be as fire to bake your bread with.
#BCV:Ezekiel 4:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 4:16>Ezekiel 4:16</verse></h3>

<page=2035>Moreover he said to me, Son of man, behold, I will break (n) the staff of bread in Jerusalem: and
they shall eat bread by weight, and with care; and they shall drink water by measure, and in horror:



(n) That is, the force and strength with which it would nourish, (<bcv=Isa 3:1>Isa 3:1</bcv>;<bcv=Ezek 14:13> Eze 14:13</bcv>).

<h2>Ezekiel 5</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 5:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 5:1>Ezekiel 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=2036>And thou, son of man, take thee a sharp knife, take thee a barber's razor, and cause [it] (a) to pass
upon thy head and upon thy beard: then take to thee balances to weigh, and divide the [hair].



(a) To shave your head and your beard.
#BCV:Ezekiel 5:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 5:2>Ezekiel 5:2</verse></h3>



Thou shalt burn with fire a third part in the midst of the (b) city, when the days of the siege are
fulfilled: and thou shalt take a third part, [and] smite about it with a sword: and a third part thou
shalt scatter in the wind; and I will draw out a sword after them.



(b) That is, of that city which he had portrayed on the brick, (<bcv=Ezek 4:1>Eze 4:1</bcv>). By the fire and pestilence he
means the famine, with which one part perished during the siege of Nebuchadnezzar. By the sword,
those that were slain when Zedekiah fled and those that were carried away captive and by the
scattering into the wind, those that fled into Egypt, and into other parts after the city was taken.
#BCV:Ezekiel 5:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 5:3>Ezekiel 5:3</verse></h3>



Thou shalt also take of them a few in number, and bind them in thy (c) skirts.



(c) Meaning, that a very few would be left, which the Lord would preserve among all these storms,
but not without troubles and trial.
#BCV:Ezekiel 5:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 5:4>Ezekiel 5:4</verse></h3>



Then take of them again, and cast them into the midst of the fire, and burn them in the fire; (d)
from which a fire shall come forth into all the house of Israel.



(d) Out of the fire which you kindled will come a fire which will signify the destruction of Israel.
#BCV:Ezekiel 5:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 5:6>Ezekiel 5:6</verse></h3>



And she hath changed my (e) judgments into wickedness more than the nations, and my statutes
more than the countries that [are] around her: for they have refused my judgments and my statutes,
they have not walked in them.



(e) My word and law into idolatry and superstitions.
#BCV:Ezekiel 5:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 5:7>Ezekiel 5:7</verse></h3>

<page=2037>Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Because ye (f) multiplied more than the nations that [are]
around you, [and] have not walked in my statutes, neither have kept my judgments, neither have
done according to the judgments of the nations that [are] around you;



(f) Because your idols are in greater number, and your superstitions more than among the professed
idolaters, read (<bcv=Isa 65:11>Isa 65:11</bcv>) or he condemns their ingratitude in respect to his benefits.
#BCV:Ezekiel 5:13
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 5:13>Ezekiel 5:13</verse></h3>



Thus shall my anger be accomplished, and I will cause my fury to rest upon them, and I will be (g)
comforted: and they shall know that I the LORD have spoken [it] in my zeal, when I have
accomplished my fury in them.



(g) That is, I will not be pacified till I am avenged, (<bcv=Isa 1:24>Isa 1:24</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 5:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 5:16>Ezekiel 5:16</verse></h3>



When I shall send upon them the evil (h) arrows of famine, which shall be for [their] destruction,
[and] which I will send to destroy you: and I will increase the famine upon you, and will break your
staff of bread:



(h) Which were the grasshoppers, mildew and whatever were opportunities for famine.

<h2>Ezekiel 6</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 6:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 6:3>Ezekiel 6:3</verse></h3>

<page=2038>And say, Ye mountains of Israel, hear the word of the Lord GOD; Thus saith the Lord GOD to the



(a) mountains, and to the hills, to the rivers, and to the valleys; Behold, I, [even] I, will bring a sword
upon you, and I will destroy your high places.



(a) He speaks of all the places where the Israelites accustomed to commit their idolaters, threatening
them with destruction.
#BCV:Ezekiel 6:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 6:4>Ezekiel 6:4</verse></h3>



And your altars shall be desolate, and your (b) images shall be broken: and I will cast down your slain
[men] before your idols.



(b) Read (<bcv=II Ki 23:14>Kg2 23:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 6:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 6:5>Ezekiel 6:5</verse></h3>



And I will lay the dead carcases of the children of Israel before their (c) idols; and I will scatter your
bones about your altars.



(c) In contempt of their power and force, which will neither be able to deliver you or themselves.
#BCV:Ezekiel 6:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 6:8>Ezekiel 6:8</verse></h3>



Yet will I leave a remnant, (d) that ye may have [some] that shall escape the sword among the nations,
when ye shall be scattered through the countries.



(d) He shows that in all dangers God will preserve a few, which will be as the seed of his Church
and call on his Name.
#BCV:Ezekiel 6:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 6:9>Ezekiel 6:9</verse></h3>



And they that escape of you shall remember me among the nations to which they shall be carried
captives, because I am broken with their adulterous heart, which hath departed from me, and with
their eyes, which play the harlot with their idols: and they (e) shall lothe themselves for the evils
which they have committed in all their abominations.



(e) They will be ashamed to see that their hope in idols was in vain, and so will repent.
#BCV:Ezekiel 6:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 6:11>Ezekiel 6:11</verse></h3>

<page=2039>Thus saith the Lord GOD; (f) Smite with thy hand, and stamp with thy foot, and say, Alas for all the
evil abominations of the house of Israel! for they shall fall by the sword, by the famine, and by the
pestilence.



(f) By these signs he would that the prophet would signify the great destruction to come.
#BCV:Ezekiel 6:13
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 6:13>Ezekiel 6:13</verse></h3>



Then shall (g) ye know that I [am] the LORD, when their slain [men] shall be among their idols all
around their altars, upon every high hill, on all the tops of the mountains, and under every green
tree, and under every thick oak, the place where they offered sweet savour to all their idols.



(g) That is, all nations when you will see my judgments.
#BCV:Ezekiel 6:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 6:14>Ezekiel 6:14</verse></h3>



So will I stretch out my hand upon them, and make the land desolate, even, more desolate (h) than
the wilderness toward Diblath, in all their habitations: and they shall know that I [am] the LORD.



(h) Which was in Syria and bordered on Israel, or from the wilderness which was south, to Diblath
which was north: meaning the while country.

<h2>Ezekiel 7</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 7:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 7:3>Ezekiel 7:3</verse></h3>

<page=2040>Now [is] the end [come] upon thee, and I will send my anger upon thee, and will judge thee
according to thy ways, and will recompense upon thee all (a) thy abominations.



(a) I will punish you as you have deserved for your idolatry.
#BCV:Ezekiel 7:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 7:6>Ezekiel 7:6</verse></h3>



An end is come, the end is come: it (b) watcheth for thee; behold, it is come.



(b) He shows that the judgments of God ever watch to destroy the sinners, who notwithstanding he
delays till there is no more hope of repentance.
#BCV:Ezekiel 7:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 7:7>Ezekiel 7:7</verse></h3>



The (c) morning is come upon thee, O thou that dwellest in the land: the time is come, the day of
trouble [is] near, and not the joyful (d) shouting upon the mountains.



(c) The beginning of his punishments is already come.



(d) Which was a voice of joy and mirth.
#BCV:Ezekiel 7:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 7:10>Ezekiel 7:10</verse></h3>



Behold the day, behold, it is come: the morning is gone forth; the (e) rod hath blossomed, (f) pride
hath budded.



(e) The scourge is ready.



(f) That is, the proud tyrant Nebuchadnezzar has gathered his force and is ready.
#BCV:Ezekiel 7:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 7:11>Ezekiel 7:11</verse></h3>




(g) Violence hath risen into a rod of wickedness: none of them [shall remain], nor of their multitude,
nor of any of theirs: neither [shall there be] wailing for them.



(g) This cruel enemy will be a sharp scourge for their wickedness.
#BCV:Ezekiel 7:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 7:12>Ezekiel 7:12</verse></h3>



The time is come, the day draweth near: let not the buyer (i) rejoice, nor the seller (k) mourn: for
wrath [is] upon all its multitude.

<page=2041>(i) For the present profit.



(k) For he will lose nothing.
#BCV:Ezekiel 7:13
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 7:13>Ezekiel 7:13</verse></h3>



For the seller shall not (l) return to that which is sold, although they were yet alive: for the (m) vision
[is] concerning its whole multitude, [which] shall not return; (n) neither shall any strengthen himself
in the iniquity of his life.



(l) In the year of the Jubile, meaning that none would enjoy the privilege of the law, (<bcv=Lev 25:13>Lev 25:13</bcv>) for
they would all be carried away captives.



(m) This vision signified that all would be carried away, and none would return for the Jubile.



(n) No man for all this endeavours himself or takes heart to repent for his evil life. Some read, for
none will be strengthened in his iniquity of his life: meaning that they would gain nothing by
flattering themselves in evil.
#BCV:Ezekiel 7:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 7:14>Ezekiel 7:14</verse></h3>




(o) They have blown the trumpet, even to make all ready; but none goeth to the battle: for my wrath
[is] upon all its multitude.



(o) The Israelites made a brag, but their hearts failed them.
#BCV:Ezekiel 7:20
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 7:20>Ezekiel 7:20</verse></h3>



As for the beauty of his (p) ornament, he set it in majesty: but they made the images of their
abominations [and] of their detestable things in it: therefore have I set it far from them.



(p) Meaning, the sanctuary.
#BCV:Ezekiel 7:21
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 7:21>Ezekiel 7:21</verse></h3>



And I will give it into the hands of the (q) strangers for a prey, and to the wicked of the earth for a
spoil; and they shall pollute it.



(q) That is, of the Babylonians.
#BCV:Ezekiel 7:22
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 7:22>Ezekiel 7:22</verse></h3>



My face will I turn also from them, and they shall pollute my (r) secret [place]: for the robbers shall
enter into it, and defile it.

<page=2042>(r) Which signifies the most holy place, into which none might enter but the high priest.
#BCV:Ezekiel 7:23
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 7:23>Ezekiel 7:23</verse></h3>



Make a (s) chain: for the land is full of (t) bloody crimes, and the city is full of violence.



(s) Signifying that they would be bound and led away captives.



(t) That is, of sins that deserve death.
#BCV:Ezekiel 7:24
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 7:24>Ezekiel 7:24</verse></h3>



Wherefore I will bring the worst of the nations, and they shall possess their houses: I will also make
the pomp of the strong to cease; and their (u) holy places shall be defiled.



(u) Which was the temple that was divided into three parts.

<h2>Ezekiel 8</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 8:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 8:1>Ezekiel 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=2043>And it came to pass in the (a) sixth year, in the (b) sixth [month], in the fifth [day] of the month, [as]
I sat in my house, and the elders of Judah sat before me, that the hand of the Lord GOD fell there
upon me.



(a) Of the captivity of Jeconiah.



(b) Which contained part of August and part of September.
#BCV:Ezekiel 8:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 8:2>Ezekiel 8:2</verse></h3>



Then I beheld, and lo a likeness as the appearance of (c) fire: from the appearance of his loins even
downward, fire; and from his loins even upward, as the appearance of brightness, as the colour of
amber.



(c) As in (<bcv=Ezek 1:27>Eze 1:27</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 8:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 8:3>Ezekiel 8:3</verse></h3>



And he put forth the form of an hand, and took me by a lock of my head; and the spirit lifted me
up between the earth and the heaven, and brought me in the (d) visions of God to Jerusalem, to the
door of the inner (e) gate that looketh toward the north; where [was] the seat of the image of (f)
jealousy, which provoketh to jealousy.



(d) Meaning that he was thus carried in spirit, and not in body.



(e) Which was the porch or the court where the people assembled.



(f) So called, because it provoked God's indignation, which was the idol of Baal.
#BCV:Ezekiel 8:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 8:4>Ezekiel 8:4</verse></h3>



And, behold, the glory of the God of Israel [was] there, according to the vision that I saw (g) in the
plain.



(g) Read (<bcv=Ezek 3:22>Eze 3:22</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 8:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 8:5>Ezekiel 8:5</verse></h3>



Then said he to me, Son of man, lift up thy eyes now the way toward the north. So I lifted up my
eyes the way toward the north, and behold northward at the gate of the (h) altar this image of
jealousy in the entrance.

<page=2044>(h) That is, in the court where the people had made an altar to Baal.
#BCV:Ezekiel 8:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 8:6>Ezekiel 8:6</verse></h3>



He said furthermore to me, Son of man, seest thou what they do? [even] the great abominations
that the house of Israel committeth here, that I should withdraw from (i) my sanctuary? but turn
thee yet again, [and] thou shalt see greater abominations.



(i) For God will not be where the idols are.
#BCV:Ezekiel 8:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 8:10>Ezekiel 8:10</verse></h3>



So I went in and saw; and behold every form of creeping animals, and (k) abominable beasts, and all
the idols of the house of Israel, portrayed around upon the wall.



(k) Which were forbidden in the law, (<bcv=Lev 11:4>Lev 11:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 8:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 8:11>Ezekiel 8:11</verse></h3>



And there stood before them seventy (l) men of the elders of the house of Israel, and in the midst
of them stood Jaazaniah the son of Shaphan, with every man his censer in his hand; and (m) a thick
cloud of incense went up.



(l) Thus they who would have kept all the rest in the fear and true service of God were the
ringleaders of all abomination, and by their example pulled others from God.



(m) It was in such abundance.
#BCV:Ezekiel 8:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 8:12>Ezekiel 8:12</verse></h3>



Then said he to me, Son of man, hast thou seen what the elders of the house of Israel (n) do in the
dark, every man in the chambers of his imagery? for they say, The LORD seeth us not; the LORD
hath forsaken the earth.



(n) For besides their common idolatry they had particular service, which they had in secret chambers.
#BCV:Ezekiel 8:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 8:14>Ezekiel 8:14</verse></h3>



Then he brought me to the door of the gate of the LORD'S house which [was] toward the north;
and, behold, there sat women weeping for (o) Tammuz.



(o) The Jews write, that this was a prophet of the idols, who after his death was once a year
mourned for in the night.
#BCV:Ezekiel 8:17
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 8:17>Ezekiel 8:17</verse></h3>

#BCV:eze 8:17
<h3><verse=eze 8:17>eze 8:17</verse></h3>



that they commit the abominations which they commit here? for they have filled the land with
violence, and have returned to provoke me to anger: and, lo, they put the (p) branch to their nose.



(p) Declaring that the censings and service of the idolaters are but infections and villany before God.

<h2>Ezekiel 9</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 9:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 9:1>Ezekiel 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=2046>He cried also in my ears with a loud voice, saying, Cause them that have charge over (a) the city to
draw near, even every man [with] his destroying weapon in his hand.



(a) The time to take vengeance.
#BCV:Ezekiel 9:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 9:2>Ezekiel 9:2</verse></h3>



And, behold, six (b) men came from the way of the higher gate, which lieth toward the (c) north,
and every man a slaughter weapon in his hand; and one man among them [was] clothed with linen,
with a writer's (d) inkhorn by his side: and they went in, and stood beside the brasen altar.



(b) Which were angels in the appearance of men.



(c) Signifying that the Babylonians would come from the north to destroy the city and the temple.



(d) To mark them that would be saved.
#BCV:Ezekiel 9:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 9:3>Ezekiel 9:3</verse></h3>



And the glory of the God of Israel had (e) gone up from the cherub, on which he was, to the
threshold of the house. And he called to the man clothed with linen, who [had] the writer's inkhorn
by his side;



(e) Which declared that he was not bound to it, neither would remain any longer than there was
hope that they would return from their wickedness and worship him correctly.
#BCV:Ezekiel 9:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 9:4>Ezekiel 9:4</verse></h3>



And the LORD said to him, Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and
set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that (f) sigh and that cry for all the abominations that are
done in the midst of it.



(f) He shows what is the manner of God's children, whom he marks for salvation: that is, to mourn
and cry out against the wickedness which they see committed against God's glory.
#BCV:Ezekiel 9:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 9:6>Ezekiel 9:6</verse></h3>



Slay utterly old [and] young, both maids, and little children, and women: but come not near any man
upon whom [is] the (g) mark; and begin at my sanctuary. Then they began at the (h) elders who
[were] before the house.

<page=2047>(g) Thus in all his plagues the Lord preserves his small number, which he marks as in (<bcv=Exo 12:12>Exo 12:12</bcv>; <bcv=Rev 7:3>Rev 7:3</bcv>) 
but the chief mark is the spirit of adoption, with which the heart is sealed up to life everlasting.



(h) Which was the chief opportunity for all these evils, as in (<bcv=Ezek 8:11>Eze 8:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 9:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 9:8>Ezekiel 9:8</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, while they were slaying them, and I was left, that I fell upon my face, and cried,
and said, (i) Ah Lord GOD! wilt thou destroy the whole remnant of Israel in thy pouring out of thy
fury upon Jerusalem?



(i) This declares that the servants of God have a compassion when they see his judgments executed.
#BCV:Ezekiel 9:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 9:9>Ezekiel 9:9</verse></h3>



Then said he to me, The iniquity of the house of Israel and Judah [is] exceeding great, and the land
is full of (k) blood, and the city full of perverseness: for they say, The LORD hath forsaken the
earth, and the LORD seeth not.



(k) That is, with all kinds of wickedness. See<bcv=Isa 1:15> Isa 1:15</bcv>

<h2>Ezekiel 10</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 10:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 10:1>Ezekiel 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=2048>Then I looked, and, behold, in the firmament that was above the head of the (a) cherubim there
appeared over them as it were a sapphire stone, as the appearance of the likeness of a throne.



(a) Which in (<bcv=Ezek 1:5>Eze 1:5</bcv>) he called the four beasts.
#BCV:Ezekiel 10:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 10:2>Ezekiel 10:2</verse></h3>



And he spoke to the man clothed with linen, and said, Go in between the wheels, [even] under the
cherub, and fill thy hand with coals of fire from between the cherubim, and scatter [them] over (b)
the city. And he entered in my sight.



(b) This signified that the city would be burnt.
#BCV:Ezekiel 10:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 10:4>Ezekiel 10:4</verse></h3>



Then the glory of the LORD (c) went up from the cherub, [and stood] over the threshold of the
house; and the house was filled with the cloud, and the court was full of the brightness of the
LORD'S glory.



(c) Meaning that the glory of God would depart from the temple.
#BCV:Ezekiel 10:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 10:5>Ezekiel 10:5</verse></h3>



And the (d) sound of the cherubim's wings was heard [even] to the outer court, as the voice of the
Almighty God when he speaketh.



(d) Read (<bcv=Ezek 1:24>Eze 1:24</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 10:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 10:9>Ezekiel 10:9</verse></h3>



And when I looked, behold the four wheels by the cherubim, one wheel by one cherub, and another
wheel by another cherub: and the appearance of the wheels [was] as the colour of a (e) beryl stone.



(e) Read (<bcv=Ezek 1:16>Eze 1:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 10:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 10:11>Ezekiel 10:11</verse></h3>

<page=2049>When they went, they went upon their four sides; they turned not as they went, but to the place
where the head looked they followed it; they (f) turned not as they went.



(f) Until they had executed God's judgments.
#BCV:Ezekiel 10:17
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 10:17>Ezekiel 10:17</verse></h3>



When they stood, [these] stood; and when they were lifted up, [these] lifted up themselves [also]: for
the (g) spirit of the living being [was] in them.



(g) There was one consent between the cherubims and the wheels.
#BCV:Ezekiel 10:18
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 10:18>Ezekiel 10:18</verse></h3>




(h) Then the glory of the LORD departed from off the threshold of the house, and stood over the
cherubim.



(h) Read (<bcv=Ezek 9:3>Eze 9:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 10:20
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 10:20>Ezekiel 10:20</verse></h3>



This [is] the (i) living being that I saw under the God of Israel by the river of Chebar; and I knew
that they [were] the cherubim.



(i) That is, the whole body of the four beasts or cherubims.

<h2>Ezekiel 11</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 11:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 11:3>Ezekiel 11:3</verse></h3>

<page=2050>Who say, (a) [It is] not near; let us build houses: this [city is] the (b) caldron, and we [are] the flesh.



(a) Thus the wicked derided the prophets as though they preached only errors, and therefore gave
themselves still to their pleasures.



(b) We will not be pulled out of Jerusalem, till the hour of our death comes, as the flesh is not taken
out of the caldron until it is boiled.
#BCV:Ezekiel 11:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 11:7>Ezekiel 11:7</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Your slain whom ye have laid in the midst of it, they [are] (c)
the flesh, and this [city is] the caldron: but I will bring you forth out of the midst of it.



(c) Contrary to their vain confidence he shows in what sense the city is the caldron: that is, because
of the dead bodies that have been murdered in it, and so lit as flesh in the caldron.
#BCV:Ezekiel 11:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 11:9>Ezekiel 11:9</verse></h3>



And I will bring you out of the midst of it, and deliver you into (d) the hands of strangers, and will
execute judgments among you.



(d) That is, of the Chaldeans.
#BCV:Ezekiel 11:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 11:10>Ezekiel 11:10</verse></h3>



Ye shall fall by the sword; I will judge you in the border of (e) Israel; and ye shall know that I [am]
the LORD.



(e) That is, in Riblah, read (<bcv=II Ki 25:6>Kg2 25:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 11:13
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 11:13>Ezekiel 11:13</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, when I prophesied, that Pelatiah the son of (f) Benaiah died. Then I fell down
upon my face, and cried with a loud voice, and said, Ah Lord GOD! wilt thou make a full end of the
remnant of Israel?



(f) It seems that this noble man died of some terrible death, and therefore the prophet feared some
strange judgment of God toward the rest of the people.
#BCV:Ezekiel 11:15
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 11:15>Ezekiel 11:15</verse></h3>

<page=2051>Son of man, thy (g) brethren, [even] thy brethren, the men of thy kindred, and all the house of
Israel wholly, [are] they to whom the inhabitants of Jerusalem have said, Retire far from the LORD:
to us is this land given in possession.



(g) They that remained at Jerusalem thus reproached them that were gone into captivity as though
they were cast off and forsaken by God.
#BCV:Ezekiel 11:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 11:16>Ezekiel 11:16</verse></h3>



Therefore say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Although I have cast them far off among the nations, and
although I have scattered them among the countries, yet will I be to them as a little (h) sanctuary in
the countries where they shall come.



(h) They will be yet a little church: showing that the Lord will ever have some to call on his Name,
whom he will preserve and restore, though they are for a time afflicted.
#BCV:Ezekiel 11:19
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 11:19>Ezekiel 11:19</verse></h3>



And I will give them one heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will take the (i) stony
heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh:



(i) Meaning, the heart to which nothing can enter and regenerate them anew, so that their heart may
be soft and ready to receive my graces.
#BCV:Ezekiel 11:25
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 11:25>Ezekiel 11:25</verse></h3>



Then I spoke to them of the (k) captivity all the things that the LORD had shown me.



(k) When Jeconiah was led away captive.

<h2>Ezekiel 12</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 12:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 12:2>Ezekiel 12:2</verse></h3>

<page=2052>Son of man, thou dwellest in the midst of a rebellious house, who have eyes to see, and see (a) not;
they have ears to hear, and hear not: for they [are] a rebellious house.



(a) That is, they receive not the fruit of that which they see and hear.
#BCV:Ezekiel 12:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 12:6>Ezekiel 12:6</verse></h3>



In their sight shalt thou bear [it] upon [thy] shoulders, [and] carry [it] forth in the twilight: thou shalt
cover thy face, that thou mayest not see the ground: for I have set thee [for] a (b) sign to the house
of Israel.



(b) That as you do, so shall they do, and therefore in you they will see their own plague and
punishment.
#BCV:Ezekiel 12:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 12:9>Ezekiel 12:9</verse></h3>



Son of man, hath not the house of Israel, the rebellious house, said to thee, What (c) doest thou?



(c) Do they not deride your doings?
#BCV:Ezekiel 12:13
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 12:13>Ezekiel 12:13</verse></h3>



My net also will I spread upon (d) him, and he shall be taken in my snare: and I will bring him to
Babylon [to] the land of the Chaldeans; yet shall he not see it, though he shall die there.



(d) When the king will think to escape by fleeing, I will take him into my net, as in (<bcv=Ezek 32:3>Eze 32:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 12:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 12:16>Ezekiel 12:16</verse></h3>



But I will leave a (e) few men of them from the sword, from the famine, and from the pestilence;
that they may declare all their abominations among the nations where they come; and they shall
know that I [am] the LORD.



(e) Who would bear his Name, and would be his Church.
#BCV:Ezekiel 12:22
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 12:22>Ezekiel 12:22</verse></h3>

<page=2053>Son of man, what [is] that proverb [that] ye have in the land of Israel, saying, The days (f) are
prolonged, and every vision faileth?



(f) Because they did not immediately see the prophecies accomplished, they contemned them as
though they would never be fulfilled.
#BCV:Ezekiel 12:27
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 12:27>Ezekiel 12:27</verse></h3>



Son of man, behold, [they of] the house of Israel say, The vision that he seeth [is] for (g) many days
[to come], and he prophesieth of the times [that are] distant.



(g) That is, it will not come to pass in our days, and therefore we care not for it: thus the wicked ever
abuse God's patience and benignity.

<h2>Ezekiel 13</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 13:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 13:2>Ezekiel 13:2</verse></h3>

<page=2054>Son of man, prophesy against the prophets of Israel that prophesy, and say thou to them that
prophesy out of their (a) own hearts, Hear ye the word of the LORD;



(a) After their own fantasy and not as having the revelation of the Lord, (<bcv=Jer 23:16>Jer 23:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 13:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 13:4>Ezekiel 13:4</verse></h3>



O Israel, thy prophets are like the foxes (b) in the deserts.



(b) Watching to destroy the vineyard.
#BCV:Ezekiel 13:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 13:5>Ezekiel 13:5</verse></h3>




(c) Ye have not gone up into the gaps, neither made up the hedge for the house of Israel to stand in
the battle in the day of the LORD.



(c) He speaks to the governor and true ministers that would have resisted them.
#BCV:Ezekiel 13:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 13:7>Ezekiel 13:7</verse></h3>



Have ye not seen a vain vision, and have ye not spoken a lying divination, though (d) ye say, The
LORD saith [it]; although I have not spoken?



(d) You promised peace to this people and now you see their destruction, so that it is revealed that
you are false prophets.
#BCV:Ezekiel 13:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 13:9>Ezekiel 13:9</verse></h3>



And my hand shall be upon the prophets that see vanity, and that divine lies: they shall not be in the
assembly of my people, neither shall they be written in the (e) writing of the house of Israel, neither
shall they enter into the land of Israel; and ye shall know that I [am] the Lord GOD.



(e) That is in the book of life, in which the true Israelites are written.
#BCV:Ezekiel 13:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 13:10>Ezekiel 13:10</verse></h3>



Because, even because they have seduced my people, saying, (f) Peace; and [there was] no peace; and
one built up a (g) wall, and, lo, others daubed it with untempered [mortar]:



(f) See<bcv=Jer 6:14> Jer 6:14</bcv>

<page=2055>(g) While the true prophets prophesied the destruction of the city to bring the people to repentance,
the false prophets spoke the contrary, and flattered them in their vanities, so that what one false
prophet said (which is here called the building of the wall) another false prophet would affirm,
though he had neither opportunity nor good ground to hear him.
#BCV:Ezekiel 13:15
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 13:15>Ezekiel 13:15</verse></h3>



Thus will I accomplish my wrath upon the wall, and upon them that have daubed it with (h)
untempered [mortar], and will say to you, The wall [is] no [more], neither they that daubed it;



(h) By which is meant whatever man of himself sets forth under the authority of God's word.
#BCV:Ezekiel 13:18
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 13:18>Ezekiel 13:18</verse></h3>



And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Woe to the [women] that sew (i) [magic] charms upon all wrists,
and make kerchiefs upon the head of every stature to hunt souls! Will ye hunt the souls of my
people, and will ye save the souls alive [that come] to you?



(i) These superstitious women for money would prophecy and tell every man his fortune giving
them pillows to lean on, and kerchiefs to cover their heads, to the intent they might the more allure
them and bewitch them.
#BCV:Ezekiel 13:19
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 13:19>Ezekiel 13:19</verse></h3>



And will ye profane me among my people for handfuls of (k) barley and for pieces of bread, to slay
the souls that should not die, and (l) to save the souls alive that should not live, by your lying to my
people that hear [your] lies?



(k) Will you make my word serve your bellies?



(l) These sorcerers made the people believe that they could preserve life or destroy it and that it
would come to everyone according as they prophesied.
#BCV:Ezekiel 13:20
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 13:20>Ezekiel 13:20</verse></h3>



Wherefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I [am] against your [magic] charms, with which ye
there hunt the (m) souls to make [them] fly, and I will tear them from your arms, and will let the
souls go, [even] the souls that ye hunt to make [them] fly.



(m) That is, to cause them to perish, and that they should depart from the body.
#BCV:Ezekiel 13:22
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 13:22>Ezekiel 13:22</verse></h3>

<page=2056>Because with lies ye have made the heart of the (n) righteous sad, whom I have not made sad; and
strengthened the hands of the wicked, that he should not return from his wicked way, by promising
him life:



(n) By threatening them that were godly, and upholding the wicked.

<h2>Ezekiel 14</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 14:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 14:1>Ezekiel 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=2057>Then came certain of the elders of Israel to me, and (a) sat before me.



(a) He shows the hypocrisy of the idolaters, who will pretend to hear the prophets of God, though
in their hearts they follow nothing less than their admonitions and also how by one means or
another God discovers them.
#BCV:Ezekiel 14:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 14:3>Ezekiel 14:3</verse></h3>



Son of man, these men have set up their idols in their (b) heart, and put the stumblingblock of their
iniquity before their face: should I be enquired of at all by them?



(b) They are not only idolaters in heart, but also worship their filthy idols openly which lead them in
blindness, and cause them to stumble, so that he will not hear them when they call to him. See Isa
1:15
#BCV:Ezekiel 14:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 14:4>Ezekiel 14:4</verse></h3>



Therefore speak to them, and say to them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Every man of the house of
Israel that setteth up his idols in his heart, and putteth the stumblingblock of his iniquity before his
face, and cometh to the (c) prophet; I the LORD will answer him that cometh according to the
multitude (d) of his idols;



(c) To inquire of things which the Lord has appointed to come to pass.



(d) As his abomination has deserved: that is, he will be led with lies according as he delighted in it,



(<bcv=II Th 2:10>Th2 2:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 14:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 14:5>Ezekiel 14:5</verse></h3>



That (e) I may take the house of Israel in their own heart, because they are all estranged from me
through their idols.



(e) That is, convince them by their own conscience.
#BCV:Ezekiel 14:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 14:9>Ezekiel 14:9</verse></h3>



And if the prophet be (f) deceived when he hath spoken a thing, I the LORD have deceived that
prophet, and I will stretch out my hand upon him, and will destroy him from the midst of my
people Israel.

<page=2058>(f) The prophet declares that God for man's ingratitude raises up false prophets to seduce them that
delight in lies rather than in the truth of God, and thus he punishes sin with sin, (<bcv=I Ki 22:20>Kg1 22:20</bcv>, 
<bcv=1King 22:22>Kg1 22:22</bcv>) and destroys those prophets as well as the people.
#BCV:Ezekiel 14:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 14:11>Ezekiel 14:11</verse></h3>



That the house of (g) Israel may no more go astray from me, neither be polluted any more with all
their transgressions; but that they may be my people, and I may be their God, saith the Lord GOD.



(g) Thus God's judgments against the wicked are admonitions to the godly to cleave to the Lord and
not to defile themselves with the same abominations.
#BCV:Ezekiel 14:13
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 14:13>Ezekiel 14:13</verse></h3>



Son of man, when the land sinneth against me by trespassing grievously, then will I stretch out my
hand upon it, (h) and will break the staff of its bread, and will send famine upon it, and will cut off
man and beast from it:



(h) Read (<bcv=Ezek 4:16>Eze 4:16</bcv>,<bcv=Ezek 5:17> Eze 5:17</bcv>;<bcv=Isa 3:1> Isa 3:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 14:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 14:14>Ezekiel 14:14</verse></h3>



Though these three men, (i) Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they should deliver their own souls
only by their (k) righteousness, saith the Lord GOD.



(i) Though Noah and Job were now alive, which in their time were most godly men (for at this time
Daniel was in captivity with Ezekiel) and so these three together would pray for this wicked people,
yet I would not hear them, read (<bcv=Jer 15:1>Jer 15:1</bcv>).



(k) Meaning, that a very few (which he calls the remnant, (<bcv=Ezek 14:22>Eze 14:22</bcv>)) would escape these plagues,
whom God has sanctified and made righteous, so that this righteousness is a sign that they are the
Church of God, whom he would preserve for his own sake.
#BCV:Ezekiel 14:22
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 14:22>Ezekiel 14:22</verse></h3>



Yet, behold, in it shall be left a (l) remnant that shall be brought forth, [both] sons and daughters:
behold, they shall come forth to you, and ye shall see their way and their doings: and ye shall be
comforted concerning the evil that I have brought upon Jerusalem, [even] concerning all that I have
brought upon it.



(l) See<bcv=Ezek 5:3> Eze 5:3</bcv>

<h2>Ezekiel 15</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 15:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 15:2>Ezekiel 15:2</verse></h3>

<page=2059>Son of man, What is the vine tree more than any tree, [or than] a branch which is among the (a)
trees of the forest?



(a) Which brings forth no fruit, no more than the other trees of the forest do: meaning that if
Jerusalem, which bore the name of his Church, did not bring forth fruit it would be utterly
destroyed.
#BCV:Ezekiel 15:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 15:7>Ezekiel 15:7</verse></h3>



And I will set my face against them; they shall go out from [one] (b) fire, and [another] fire shall
devour them; and ye shall know that I [am] the LORD, when I set my face against them.



(b) Though they escape one danger, yet another will take them.

<h2>Ezekiel 16</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 16:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:9>Ezekiel 16:9</verse></h3>

<page=2060>Then I washed thee with (f) water; yea, I thoroughly washed away thy blood from thee, and I (g)
anointed thee with oil.



(f) I washed away your sins.



(g) I sanctified you with my Holy Spirit.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:12>Ezekiel 16:12</verse></h3>



And I put a jewel in thy nose, and earrings in thy ears, and a beautiful (h) crown upon thy head.



(h) By this he shows how he saved his Church, enriched it, and gave it power and dominion to reign.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:14>Ezekiel 16:14</verse></h3>



And thy renown went forth among the nations for thy beauty: for it [was] perfect through my (i)
comeliness, which I had put upon thee, saith the Lord GOD.



(i) He declares where the dignity of Jerusalem stood: that is, in that the Lord gave them of his
beauty and excellency.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:15
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:15>Ezekiel 16:15</verse></h3>



But thou didst (k) trust in thy own beauty, and didst play the harlot because of thy renown, and didst
pour out (l) thy harlotries on every one that passed by; his it was.



(k) In abusing my gifts and in putting your confidence in your own wisdom and dignity, which were
the opportunities of your idolatry.



(l) There was no idolatry with which you did not pollute yourself.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:16>Ezekiel 16:16</verse></h3>



And of thy garments thou didst take, and didst deck thy high places with various colours, (m) and
didst play the harlot upon them: [the like things] shall not come, neither shall it be [so].



(m) This declares how the idolaters put their chief delight in those things which please the eyes and
outward senses.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:17
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:17>Ezekiel 16:17</verse></h3>

<page=2061>Thou hast also taken thy fair jewels of my gold and of my silver, which I had given thee, and hast (n)
made to thyself images of men, and hast committed harlotry with them,



(n) You have converted my vessels and instruments which I gave you to serve me with to the use of
your idols.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:20
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:20>Ezekiel 16:20</verse></h3>



Moreover thou hast taken thy sons and thy daughters, whom thou hast borne to me, and these hast
thou sacrificed to them to (o) be devoured. [Is this] of thy harlotries a small matter,



(o) Meaning by fire, read (<bcv=Lev 18:21>Lev 18:21</bcv>;<bcv=2Ki 23:10> Kg2 23:10).</bcv>
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:26
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:26>Ezekiel 16:26</verse></h3>



Thou hast also committed harlotry with the (p) Egyptians thy neighbours, great of flesh; and hast
multiplied thy harlotry, to provoke me to anger.



(p) He notes the great impiety of this people, who first falling from God to seek help at strange
nations also at length embraced their idolatry thinking by it to make their amity more strong.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:31
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:31>Ezekiel 16:31</verse></h3>



In that thou buildest thy eminent place in the head of every way, and makest thy high place in every
street; and hast not been as an harlot, (q) in that thou scornest hire;



(q) Meaning that some harlots contemn small rewards but no lovers gave a reward to Israel, but they
gave to all others signifying that the idolaters bestow all their substance which they receive from
God for his glory to serve their vile abominations.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:37
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:37>Ezekiel 16:37</verse></h3>



Behold, therefore I will gather all (r) thy lovers, with whom thou hast taken pleasure, and all [them]
that thou hast loved, with all [them] that thou hast hated; I will even gather them on every side
against thee, and will uncover thy nakedness to them, that they may see all thy nakedness.



(r) Egyptians, Assyrians and Chaldeans whom you took to be your lovers will come and destroy you,



(<bcv=Ezek 23:9>Eze 23:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:38
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:38>Ezekiel 16:38</verse></h3>



And I will judge thee, as women that (s) break wedlock and shed blood are judged; and I will give
thee blood in fury and jealousy.

<page=2062>(s) I will judge you to death as the adulterers and murderers.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:42
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:42>Ezekiel 16:42</verse></h3>



So will I make my fury toward thee to rest, and my (t) jealousy shall depart from thee, and I will be
quiet, and will be no more angry.



(t) I will utterly destroy you and so my jealousy will cease.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:43
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:43>Ezekiel 16:43</verse></h3>



Because thou hast not remembered the days of thy youth, but hast provoked me in all these [things];
behold, therefore I also will (u) recompense thy way upon [thy] head, saith the Lord GOD: and thou
shalt not commit this lewdness above all thy abominations.



(u) I have punished your faults but you would not repent.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:44
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:44>Ezekiel 16:44</verse></h3>



Behold, every one that useth proverbs shall use [this] proverb against thee, saying, As [is] the mother,



(x) [so is] her daughter.



(x) As the Canaanites, the Hittites and others were your predecessors, so are you their successors.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:45
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:45>Ezekiel 16:45</verse></h3>



Thou [art] thy mother's daughter, that lotheth her husband and her children; and thou [art] the sister
of thy (y) sisters, who lothed their husbands and their children: your mother [was] an Hittite, and
your father an Amorite.



(y) That is, of Samaria and Sodom.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:46
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:46>Ezekiel 16:46</verse></h3>



And thy elder sister [is] Samaria, she and her (z) daughters that dwell at thy left hand: and thy
younger sister, that dwelleth at thy right hand, [is] Sodom and her daughters.



(z) That is, her cities.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:47
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:47>Ezekiel 16:47</verse></h3>



Yet hast thou (a) not walked after their ways, nor done after their abominations: but, as [if that were]
a very little [thing], thou wast corrupted more than they in all thy ways.

<page=2063>(a) But done far worse.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:49
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:49>Ezekiel 16:49</verse></h3>



Behold, this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom, (b) pride, fulness of bread, and abundance of
idleness was in her and in her daughters, neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy.



(b) He alleges these four vices, pride, excess, idleness and contempt of the poor as four principal
causes of such abomination, wherefore they were so horribly punished, (<bcv=Gen 19:24>Gen 19:24</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:51
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:51>Ezekiel 16:51</verse></h3>



Neither (c) hath Samaria committed half of thy sins; but thou hast multiplied thy abominations
more than they, and hast (d) justified thy sisters in all thy abominations which thou hast done.



(c) Which worshipped the calves in Bethel and Dan.



(d) You are so wicked that in respect to you Sodom and Samaria were just.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:53
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:53>Ezekiel 16:53</verse></h3>



When I shall bring again (e) their captivity, the captivity of Sodom and her daughters, and the
captivity of Samaria and her daughters, then [will I bring again] the captivity of thy captives in the
midst of them:



(e) This he speaks in comparison seeing that he would restore Jerusalem when Sodom would be
restored, that is, never: and this is meant of the greatest part of the Jews.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:54
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:54>Ezekiel 16:54</verse></h3>



That thou mayest bear thy own shame, and mayest be confounded in all that thou hast done, in that
thou art a (f) comfort to them.



(f) In that you have shown yourself worse than they and yet thought to escape punishment.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:55
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:55>Ezekiel 16:55</verse></h3>



When thy sisters, Sodom and her daughters, shall return to their former state, and Samaria and her
daughters shall return to their former state, (g) then thou and thy daughters shall return to your
former state.



(g) Meaning that it would never come to pass.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:56
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:56>Ezekiel 16:56</verse></h3>

#BCV:eze 16:56
<h3><verse=eze 16:56>eze 16:56</verse></h3>




(h) You would not call her punishment to mind when you were aloft, to learn by her example to fear
my judgments.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:57
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:57>Ezekiel 16:57</verse></h3>



Before thy wickedness was (i) uncovered, as at the time of [thy] reproach of the daughters of Syria,
and all [that are] around (k) her, the daughters of the Philistines, who despise thee on every side.



(i) That is, till you were brought under by the Syrians and Philistines, (<bcv=2Ch 28:19>Ch2 28:19</bcv>).



(k) Which joined with the Syrians, or compassed about Jerusalem.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:59
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:59>Ezekiel 16:59</verse></h3>



For thus saith the Lord GOD; I will even deal with thee as thou hast done, who hast despised the (l)
oath in breaking the covenant.



(l) When you broke the covenant which was made between you and me, as in (<bcv=Ezek 16:8>Eze 16:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:60
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:60>Ezekiel 16:60</verse></h3>



Nevertheless I will (m) remember my covenant with thee in the days of thy youth, and I will
establish to thee an everlasting covenant.



(m) That is, out of mercy and love I will pity you and so stand by my covenant though you have
deserved the contrary.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:61
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:61>Ezekiel 16:61</verse></h3>



Then thou shalt remember thy ways, and be ashamed, when thou shalt receive (n) thy sisters, thy
elder and thy younger: and I will give them to thee for daughters, but not (o) by thy covenant.



(n) By which he shows that among the most wicked, he always had some seed of his Church, which
he would cause to bear fruit in due time: and here he declares how he will call the Gentiles.



(o) But of my free mercy.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:63
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:63>Ezekiel 16:63</verse></h3>



That thou mayest remember, and be (p) confounded, and never open thy mouth any more because
of thy shame, when I am pacified toward thee for all that thou hast done, saith the Lord GOD.

<page=2065>(p) This declares what fruits God's mercies work in his, that is, sorrow and repentance for their
former life.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:3>Ezekiel 16:3</verse></h3>



And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD to Jerusalem; Thy birth and thy nativity [is] of the land (a) of
Canaan; thy father [was] an Amorite, and thy mother an Hittite.



(a) You boast to be of the seed of Abraham, but you are degenerate and follow the abominations of
the wicked Canaanites as children do the manners of their fathers, (<bcv=Isa 1:4>Isa 1:4</bcv>,<bcv=Isa 57:3> Isa 57:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:4>Ezekiel 16:4</verse></h3>



And [as for] thy nativity, in the day thou wast (b) born thy navel was not cut, neither wast thou
washed in water to cleanse [thee]; thou wast not salted at all, nor swaddled at all.



(b) When I first brought you out of Egypt and planted you in this land to be my Church.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:6>Ezekiel 16:6</verse></h3>



And when I passed by thee, and saw thee polluted in thy (c) own blood, I said to thee [when thou
wast] in thy blood, Live; yea, I said to thee [when thou wast] in thy blood, Live.



(c) Being thus in your filthiness and forsaken by all men, I took you and gave you life: by which is
meant that before God wash his Church and give life, there is nothing but filthiness and death.
#BCV:Ezekiel 16:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 16:8>Ezekiel 16:8</verse></h3>



Now when I passed by thee, and looked upon thee, behold, thy time [was] the time of love; and I
spread my skirt over thee, and covered (d) thy nakedness: yea, I swore to thee, and entered into a
covenant with (e) thee, saith the Lord GOD, and thou becamest mine.



(d) These words as blood, pollution, nakedness and filthiness are often repeated to beat down their
pride, and to cause them to consider what they were before God received them to mercy, favoured
them and covered their shame.



(e) That you should be a chaste wife to me, and that I should maintain you and endue you with all
graces.

<h2>Ezekiel 17</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 17:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 17:3>Ezekiel 17:3</verse></h3>

<page=2066>And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; A great (a) eagle with great wings, longwinged, full of feathers,
which had various colours, came to Lebanon, and took the highest branch of the cedar:



(a) That is, Nebuchadnezzar who had great power, riches and many countries under him, will come
to Jerusalem and take away Jeconiah the king, as in (<bcv=Ezek 17:12>Eze 17:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 17:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 17:4>Ezekiel 17:4</verse></h3>



He cropped off the top of its young twigs, and carried it into a land of (b) trade; he set it in a city of
merchants.



(b) Meaning to Babylon.
#BCV:Ezekiel 17:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 17:5>Ezekiel 17:5</verse></h3>



He took also of the (c) seed of the land, and planted it in a fruitful field; he placed [it] by great
waters, [and] set it [as] a willow tree.



(c) That is, Zedekiah who was of the king's blood and was left at Jerusalem and made king instead
of Jeconiah, (<bcv=II Ki 24:17>Kg2 24:17</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 37:1> Jer 37:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 17:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 17:6>Ezekiel 17:6</verse></h3>



And it grew, and became (d) a spreading vine of (e) low stature, whose branches turned toward him,
and its roots were under him: so it became a vine, and brought forth branches, and shot forth sprigs.



(d) This was Zedekiah's kingdom.



(e) That is, might not have power to rebel against Babylon, as in (<bcv=Ezek 17:14>Eze 17:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 17:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 17:7>Ezekiel 17:7</verse></h3>



There was also (f) another great eagle with great wings and many feathers: and, behold, this vine did
bend her roots toward him, and shot forth her branches toward him, that he might water it by the
furrows of her plantation.



(f) Meaning, the king of Egypt from whom Zedekiah sought comfort against Nebuchadnezzar.
#BCV:Ezekiel 17:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 17:8>Ezekiel 17:8</verse></h3>

<page=2067>It was planted in a good soil by great (g) waters, that it might bring forth branches, and that it might
bear fruit, that it might be a well favoured vine.



(g) They thought to be moistened by the waters of the Nile.
#BCV:Ezekiel 17:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 17:9>Ezekiel 17:9</verse></h3>



Say thou, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Shall it prosper? shall (h) he not pull up its roots, and cut off
its fruit, that it may wither? it shall wither in all the leaves of her spring, even without great power or
many people to pluck it up by its roots.



(h) Shall not Nebuchadnezzar destroy it?
#BCV:Ezekiel 17:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 17:10>Ezekiel 17:10</verse></h3>



Yea, behold, [being] planted, shall it prosper? shall it not utterly wither, (i) when the east wind
toucheth it? it shall wither in the furrows where it grew.



(i) By this dry wind he means the Babylonians.
#BCV:Ezekiel 17:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 17:12>Ezekiel 17:12</verse></h3>



Say now to the rebellious house, Know ye not what these [things mean]? tell [them], Behold, the
king of Babylon hath come to Jerusalem, and hath taken (k) its king, and its princes, and led them
with him to Babylon;



(k) That is, Jeconiah, (<bcv=II Ki 24:15>Kg2 24:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 17:13
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 17:13>Ezekiel 17:13</verse></h3>



And hath taken of the king's seed, and made a covenant with him, and hath taken (l) an oath from
him: he hath also taken the mighty of the land:



(l) For his subjection and obedience.
#BCV:Ezekiel 17:18
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 17:18>Ezekiel 17:18</verse></h3>



Seeing he despised the oath by breaking the covenant, when, lo, he had given (m) his hand, and hath
done all these [things], he shall not escape.



(m) Because he took the name of God in vain, and broke his oath which he had confirmed by giving
his hand: therefore the prophet declares that God would not permit such perjury and infidelity to
escape punishment.
#BCV:Ezekiel 17:22
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 17:22>Ezekiel 17:22</verse></h3>

#BCV:eze 17:22
<h3><verse=eze 17:22>eze 17:22</verse></h3>



[it]; I will crop off from the (o) top of its young twigs a tender one, and will plant [it] upon an high
mountain and eminent:



(n) This promise is made to the Church which will be as a small remnant, and as the top of a tree.



(o) I will trim it, and dress it.
#BCV:Ezekiel 17:23
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 17:23>Ezekiel 17:23</verse></h3>



In the mountain of the height of Israel will I plant it: and it shall bring forth boughs, and bear fruit,
and be a well favoured cedar: and under it shall dwell all (p) fowl of every wing; in the shadow of its
branches shall they dwell.



(p) Both the Jews and Gentiles will be gathered into it.
#BCV:Ezekiel 17:24
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 17:24>Ezekiel 17:24</verse></h3>



And all the (q) trees of the field shall know that I the LORD have brought down the high tree, have
exalted the low tree, have dried up the green tree, and have made the dry tree to flourish: I the
LORD have spoken and have done [it].



(q) All the world will know that I have plucked down the proud enemies, and set up my Church
which was low and contemned.

<h2>Ezekiel 18</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 18:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 18:2>Ezekiel 18:2</verse></h3>

<page=2069>What mean ye, that ye use this proverb concerning the land of Israel, saying, (a) The fathers have
eaten sour grapes, and the children's teeth are set on edge?



(a) The people murmured at the chastising of the Lord, and therefore used this proverb meaning
that their fathers had sinned and their children were punished for their transgressions. See<bcv=Jer 31:29> Jer 31:29</bcv>
#BCV:Ezekiel 18:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 18:6>Ezekiel 18:6</verse></h3>



[And] hath not eaten (b) upon the mountains, neither hath lifted up his eyes to the idols of the
house of Israel, neither hath defiled his neighbour's wife, neither hath come near to a polluted
woman,



(b) If he has not eaten flesh that has been offered up to idols, to honour them by it.
#BCV:Ezekiel 18:13
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 18:13>Ezekiel 18:13</verse></h3>



Hath given forth upon interest, and hath taken increase: shall he then live? he shall not live: he hath
done all these abominations; (c) he shall surely die; his blood shall be upon him.



(c) He shows how the son is punished for his father's sin: that is, if he is wicked as his father was
and does not repent, he will be punished as his father was, or else not.
#BCV:Ezekiel 18:21
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 18:21>Ezekiel 18:21</verse></h3>



But if the wicked will turn from all his sins that he hath committed, and keep all my (d) statutes, and
do that which is lawful and right, he shall surely live, he shall not die.



(d) He joins the observation of the commandments with repentance; for none can repent indeed,
unless he labour to keep the Law.
#BCV:Ezekiel 18:22
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 18:22>Ezekiel 18:22</verse></h3>



All his transgressions that he hath committed, they shall not be mentioned to him: in his (e)
righteousness that he hath done he shall live.



(e) That is, in the fruit of his faith which declares that God accepts him.
#BCV:Ezekiel 18:23
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 18:23>Ezekiel 18:23</verse></h3>


<page=2070>(f) Have I any pleasure at all that the wicked should die? saith the Lord GOD: [and] not that he
should return from his ways, and live?



(f) He speaks this to commend God's mercy to poor sinners, who rather is ready to pardon than to
punish, as his long suffering declares, (<bcv=Ezek 33:11>Eze 33:11</bcv>). Though God in his eternal counsel appointed the
death and damnation of the reprobate, yet the end of his counsel was not their death only, but
chiefly his own glory. Also because he does not approve sin, therefore it is here said that he would
have them turn away from it that they might live.
#BCV:Ezekiel 18:24
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 18:24>Ezekiel 18:24</verse></h3>



But when the righteous turneth away from his righteousness, and committeth iniquity, [and] doeth
according to all the abominations that the wicked [man] doeth, shall he live? All his (g) righteousness
that he hath done shall not be mentioned: in his trespass that he hath trespassed, and in his sin that
he hath sinned, in them shall he die.



(g) That is, the false opinion that the hypocrites have of their righteousness.
#BCV:Ezekiel 18:25
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 18:25>Ezekiel 18:25</verse></h3>



Yet ye say, The way of the Lord is not (h) equal. Hear now, O house of Israel; Is not my way equal?
are not your ways unequal?



(h) In punishing the father with the children.
#BCV:Ezekiel 18:31
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 18:31>Ezekiel 18:31</verse></h3>



Cast away from you all your transgressions, by which ye have transgressed; and make (i) you a new
heart and a new spirit: for why will ye die, O house of Israel?



(i) He shows that man cannot forsake his wickedness, till his heart is changed which is only the work
of God.

<h2>Ezekiel 19</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 19:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 19:1>Ezekiel 19:1</verse></h3>

<page=2071>Moreover take thou up a lamentation for the (a) princes of Israel,



(a) That is, Jehoahaz and Jehoiakim, Josiah's sons, who for their pride and cruelty are compared to
lions.
#BCV:Ezekiel 19:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 19:2>Ezekiel 19:2</verse></h3>



And say, What [is] thy (b) mother? A lioness: she lay down among lions, she nourished her whelps
among young lions.



(b) That is Jehoahaz's mother, or Jerusalem.
#BCV:Ezekiel 19:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 19:4>Ezekiel 19:4</verse></h3>



The (c) nations also heard of him; he was taken in their pit, and they brought him with chains to the
land of Egypt.



(c) By Pharaoh Nebo king of Egypt, (<bcv=II Ki 23:33>Kg2 23:33</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 19:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 19:5>Ezekiel 19:5</verse></h3>



Now when she saw that she had waited, [and] her hope was lost, then she took another of her (d)
whelps, [and] made him a young lion.



(d) Which was Jehoiakim.
#BCV:Ezekiel 19:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 19:6>Ezekiel 19:6</verse></h3>



And he went up and down among the lions, he became a young lion, and learned to catch the prey,
[and] devoured (e) men.



(e) He slew the prophets and them that feared God and ravished their wives.
#BCV:Ezekiel 19:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 19:8>Ezekiel 19:8</verse></h3>



Then the (f) nations set against him on every side from the provinces, and spread their net over him:
he was taken in their pit.



(f) Nebuchadnezzar with his great army which was gathered from various nations.
#BCV:Ezekiel 19:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 19:10>Ezekiel 19:10</verse></h3>

#BCV:eze 19:10
<h3><verse=eze 19:10>eze 19:10</verse></h3>



branches by reason of many waters.



(g) He speaks this in the reproach of this wicked king, in whose blood, that is in the race of his
predecessors, Jerusalem would have been blessed according to God's promise and flourished as a
fruitful vine.
#BCV:Ezekiel 19:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 19:12>Ezekiel 19:12</verse></h3>



But she was plucked up in fury, she was cast down to the ground, and the (h) east wind dried up her
fruit: her strong rods were broken and withered; the fire consumed them.



(h) Meaning, that the Chaldeans would destroy them as the east wind does the fruit of the vine.
#BCV:Ezekiel 19:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 19:14>Ezekiel 19:14</verse></h3>



And fire hath gone out (i) of a rod of her branches, [which] hath devoured her fruit, so that she
hath no strong rod [to be] a sceptre to rule. This [is] a lamentation, and shall be for a lamentation.



(i) Destruction is come by Zedekiah, who was the opportunity for this rebellion.

<h2>Ezekiel 20</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 20:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:1>Ezekiel 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=2073>And it came to pass in the (a) seventh year, in the fifth [month], the tenth [day] of the month, [that]
certain of the elders of Israel came to enquire of the LORD, and sat before me.



(a) Of the captivity of Jeconiah.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:4>Ezekiel 20:4</verse></h3>



Wilt thou judge them, son of man, wilt thou judge [them]? cause (b) them to know the
abominations of their fathers:



(b) This declares the great leniency and patience of God who calls sinners to repentance before he
condemns them.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:5>Ezekiel 20:5</verse></h3>



And say to them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; In the day when I chose Israel, and (c) lifted up my
hand to the seed of the house of Jacob, and made myself known to them in the land of Egypt,
when I lifted up my hand to them, saying, I [am] the LORD your God;



(c) I swore that I would be their God, which manner of oath was observed from all antiquity, where
they used to lift up their hands toward the heavens, acknowledging God to be the author of truth
and the defender of it, and also the judge of the heart, wishing that he would take vengeance, if they
concealed anything which they knew to be truth.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:7>Ezekiel 20:7</verse></h3>



Then said I to them, Cast ye away every man the abominations of his eyes, (d) and defile not
yourselves with the idols of Egypt: I [am] the LORD your God.



(d) God had forbidden them to make mention of the idols, (<bcv=Exo 23:13>Exo 23:13</bcv>;<bcv=Psa 16:4> Psa 16:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:8>Ezekiel 20:8</verse></h3>



But they rebelled against me, and would not hearken to me: they did not every man cast away the
abominations of (e) their eyes, neither did they forsake the idols of Egypt: then I said, I will pour
out my fury upon them, to accomplish my anger against them in the midst of the land of Egypt.



(e) Which declares the wickedness of man's heart, who judge God's service by their eyes and
outward senses.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:9>Ezekiel 20:9</verse></h3>

<page=2074>But I wrought for my (f) name's sake, that it should not be profaned before the nations, among
whom they [were], in whose sight I made myself known to them, in bringing them forth from the
land of Egypt.



(f) God had ever this respect to his glory, that he would not have evil spoken of his Name among
the Gentiles for the punishment that his people deserved, in confidence of which the godly ever
prayed, as in (<bcv=Exo 32:12>Exo 32:12</bcv>;<bcv=Num 14:13> Num 14:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:14>Ezekiel 20:14</verse></h3>



But I wrought for my name's sake, that it should not be profaned before the (g) nations, in whose
sight I brought them out.



(g) Who might by it take an opportunity to blaspheme my Name and to accuse me of lack of ability,
or else that I had sought a means to destroy them more conveniently.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:16>Ezekiel 20:16</verse></h3>



Because they despised my judgments, and walked not in my statutes, but profaned my (h) sabbaths:
for their heart went after their idols.



(h) That is, my true religion, which I had commanded them, and gave themselves to serve me
according to their own fantasies.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:18
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:18>Ezekiel 20:18</verse></h3>



But I said to their children in the wilderness, Walk ye not in the statutes of your (i) fathers, neither
observe their judgments, nor defile yourselves with their idols:



(i) By which the Holy Spirit confuses them that say that they will follow the religion and example of
their fathers, and not measure their doings by God's word whether they are approved by it or not.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:24
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:24>Ezekiel 20:24</verse></h3>



Because they had not executed my judgments, but had despised my statutes, and had profaned my
sabbaths, and their eyes were after (k) their fathers' idols.



(k) Meaning that they set their delight on them.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:25
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:25>Ezekiel 20:25</verse></h3>

<page=2075>Wherefore I gave (l) them also statutes [that were] not good, and judgments by which they should
not live;



(l) Because they would not obey my laws, I gave them up to themselves that they should obey their
own fantasies, as in (<bcv=Ezek 20:39>Eze 20:39</bcv>;<bcv=Rom 1:21> Rom 1:21</bcv>,<bcv=Rom 1:24> Rom 1:24</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:26
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:26>Ezekiel 20:26</verse></h3>



And I polluted them in their own (m) gifts, in that they caused to pass through [the fire] all the
firstborn, that I might make them desolate, to the end that they might know that I [am] the LORD.



(m) I condemned those things, and counted them as abominable, which they thought had been
excellent and to have declared most zeal, (<bcv=Luk 16:15>Luk 16:15</bcv>) for that which God required as most excellent
they gave to their idols.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:28
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:28>Ezekiel 20:28</verse></h3>




(n) [For] when I had brought them into the land, [for] which I lifted up my hand to give it to them,
then they saw every high hill, and all the thick trees, and they offered there their sacrifices, and there
they presented the provocation of their offering: there also they made their sweet savour, and
poured out there their drink offerings.



(n) Not only in the wilderness, when I brought them out of Egypt, but since I placed them in this
land: which declares how prompt man's heart is to idolatry seeing that by no admonitions can he be
drawn back.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:29
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:29>Ezekiel 20:29</verse></h3>



Then I said to them, What [is] the high place to which ye go? And its name is called (o) Bamah to
this day.



(o) Which signifies a high place, declaring that they vaunted themselves of their idolatry and were
not ashamed of it, though God had commanded them expressly that they should have no altar lifted
on high by stairs, (<bcv=Exo 20:26>Exo 20:26</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:31
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:31>Ezekiel 20:31</verse></h3>



For when ye offer your gifts, when ye make your sons to pass through the fire, ye pollute yourselves
with all your idols, even to this day: and shall I be enquired of by you, O house of Israel? [As] I live,
saith the Lord GOD, (p) I will not be enquired of by you.



(p) He shows that the ingratitude of the people deserves that God should cut them off, and that
they should not have the comfort of his word.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:32
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:32>Ezekiel 20:32</verse></h3>

<page=2076>And that which cometh into your mind shall not be at all, that ye say, We will be as the nations, as
the families of the countries, to serve wood and (q) stone.



(q) He declares that man by nature is wholly enemy to God, and to his own salvation, and therefore
God calls him to the right way, partly by chastising but chiefly by his mercy in forgiving his rebellion
and wickedness.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:35
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:35>Ezekiel 20:35</verse></h3>



And I will bring you into the (r) wilderness of the people, and there will I enter into judgment with
you face to face.



(r) I will bring you among strange nations as into a wilderness and there will visit you, and so call you
to repentance and then bring the godly home again, (<bcv=Isa 65:9>Isa 65:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:38
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:38>Ezekiel 20:38</verse></h3>



And I will (s) purge out from among you the rebels, and them that transgress against me: I will bring
them forth out of the country where they sojourn, and they shall not enter into the land of Israel:
and ye shall know that I [am] the LORD.



(s) Signifying that he will not burn the corn with the chaff, but chose out the wicked to punish them
when he will spare his.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:39
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:39>Ezekiel 20:39</verse></h3>



As for you, O house of Israel, thus saith the Lord GOD; (t) Go ye, serve ye every one his idols, and
after this [also], if ye will not hearken to me: but profane ye my holy name no more with your gifts,
and with your idols.



(t) This is spoken to the hypocrites.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:43
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:43>Ezekiel 20:43</verse></h3>



And there shall ye remember your ways, and all your doings, in which ye have been defiled; and ye (u)
shall lothe yourselves in your own sight for all your evils that ye have committed.



(u) Your own consciences will convict you after you have felt my mercies.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:46
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:46>Ezekiel 20:46</verse></h3>

<page=2077>Son of man, set thy face toward the south, and drop [thy word] toward (x) the south, and prophesy
against the forest of the south field;



(x) For Judah stood south from Babylon.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:47
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:47>Ezekiel 20:47</verse></h3>



And say to the forest of the south, Hear the word of the LORD; Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold,
I will kindle a fire in thee, and it shall devour every (y) green tree in thee, and every dry tree: the
blazing flame shall not be quenched, and all faces from the south to the north shall be burned in it.



(y) Both strong and weak in Jerusalem.
#BCV:Ezekiel 20:49
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 20:49>Ezekiel 20:49</verse></h3>



Then said I, Ah Lord GOD! they say of me, Doth he not speak (z) parables?



(z) The people said that the prophet spoke darkly: therefore he desires the Lord to give them a plain
declaration of it.

<h2>Ezekiel 21</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 21:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:2>Ezekiel 21:2</verse></h3>

<page=2078>Son of man, set thy face toward Jerusalem, (a) and drop [thy word] toward the holy places, and
prophesy against the land of Israel,



(a) Speak sensibly, that all may understand.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:3>Ezekiel 21:3</verse></h3>



And say to the land of Israel, Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I [am] against thee, and will draw forth
my sword out of its sheath, and will cut off from thee the (b) righteous and the wicked.



(b) That is such which seem to have an outward show of righteousness by observation of the
ceremonies of the law.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:4>Ezekiel 21:4</verse></h3>



Seeing then that I will cut off from thee the righteous and the wicked, therefore shall my sword go
forth from its sheath against all flesh from the south to the (c) north:



(c) Meaning, through all the land.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:6>Ezekiel 21:6</verse></h3>



Sigh therefore, thou son of man, with breaking (d) heart; and with bitterness sigh before their eyes.



(d) As though you were in extreme anguish.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:7>Ezekiel 21:7</verse></h3>



And it shall be, when they say to thee, Why sighest thou? that thou shalt answer, (e) For the tidings;
because it cometh: and every heart shall melt, and all hands shall be feeble, and every spirit shall faint,
and all knees shall be weak [as] water: behold, it cometh, and shall be brought to pass, saith the Lord
GOD.



(e) Because of the great noise of the army of the Chaldeans.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:10>Ezekiel 21:10</verse></h3>



It is sharpened to make a grievous slaughter; it is polished that it may (f) glitter: should we then
make mirth? it despiseth the (g) rod of my son, (h) [as] every tree.

<page=2079>(f) And so cause fear.



(g) Meaning, the sceptre showing that it will not spare the king, who would be as the son of God,
and in his place.



(h) That is, the rest of the people.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:11>Ezekiel 21:11</verse></h3>



And he hath given it to be polished, that it may be handled: the sword is sharpened, and it is
polished, to give it into the hand of the (i) slayer.



(i) That is, to the army of the Chaldeans.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:12>Ezekiel 21:12</verse></h3>



Cry and wail, son of man: for it shall be upon my people, it [shall be] upon all the princes of Israel:
terrors by reason of the sword shall be upon my people: (k) smite therefore upon [thy] thigh.



(k) Read (<bcv=Ezek 6:11>Eze 6:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:13
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:13>Ezekiel 21:13</verse></h3>



Because [it is] a trial, (l) and what if [the sword] despise even the rod? it shall be no [more], saith the
Lord GOD.



(l) Ezekiel moved with compassion thus complains fearing the destruction of the kingdom which
God had confirmed to David and his posterity by promise, which promise God performed although
here it seemed to man's eye that it would utterly perish.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:14>Ezekiel 21:14</verse></h3>



Thou therefore, son of man, prophesy, and smite (m) [thy] hands together, and let the sword be
doubled the third time, the sword of the slain: it [is] the sword of the great [men that are] slain,
which entereth into their private chambers.



(m) That is, encourage the sword.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:16>Ezekiel 21:16</verse></h3>



Go thee (n) one way or other, [either] on the right hand, [or] on the left, wherever thy face [is] set.



(n) Provide for yourself: for you will see God's plague of all parts on this country.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:19
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:19>Ezekiel 21:19</verse></h3>

#BCV:eze 21:19
<h3><verse=eze 21:19>eze 21:19</verse></h3>



[ways] shall come forth from one land: and choose thou a place, choose [it] at the head of the way to
the city.



(o) This was spoken because when Nebuchadnezzar came against Judah his purpose was also to go
against the Ammonites, but doubting in the way which enterprise to undertake first he consulted
with his soothsayers and so went against Judah.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:20
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:20>Ezekiel 21:20</verse></h3>



Mark a way, that the sword may come to Rabbah of the Ammonites, and (p) to Judah in Jerusalem
the fortified.



(p) That is, to the tribe of Judah that kept themselves in Jerusalem.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:21
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:21>Ezekiel 21:21</verse></h3>



For the king of Babylon stood at the parting of the way, at the head of the two ways, to use
divination: he made [his] arrows bright, he consulted with images, he looked in (r) the liver.



(r) He used conjuring and sorcery.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:23
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:23>Ezekiel 21:23</verse></h3>



And it shall be to them (s) as a false divination in their sight, to them that have sworn oaths: (t) but
he will call to remembrance the iniquity, that they may be taken.



(s) Because there was a league between the Jews and the Babylonians, they of Jerusalem will think
nothing less than that this thing would come to pass.



(t) That is, Nebuchadnezzar will remember the rebellion of Zedekiah, and so come on them.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:25
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:25>Ezekiel 21:25</verse></h3>



And thou, profane wicked (u) prince of Israel, whose day is come, when iniquity [shall have] an end,



(u) Meaning, Zedekiah who practised with the Egyptians to make himself high and able to resist the
Babylonians.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:26
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:26>Ezekiel 21:26</verse></h3>



Thus saith the Lord GOD; Remove the (x) diadem, and take off the crown: this [shall] not [be] the
same: exalt [him that is] low, and abase [him that is] high.

<page=2081>(x) Some refer this to the priest's attire: for Jehozadak the priest went into captivity with the king.
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:27
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:27>Ezekiel 21:27</verse></h3>



I will overturn, overturn, overturn, it: and it shall be no [more], until he (y) cometh whose right it is;
and I will give it [him].



(y) That is, to the coming of Messiah: for though the Jews had some sign of government later under
the Persians, Greeks and Romans, yet this restitution was not till Christ's coming and at length would
be accomplished as was promised, (<bcv=Gen 49:10>Gen 49:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 21:29
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 21:29>Ezekiel 21:29</verse></h3>



While they see (z) vanity to thee, while they divine a lie to thee, to bring thee upon the necks of
[them that are] slain, of the wicked, whose day is come, when their iniquity [shall have] an end.



(z) Though the Jews and Ammonites would not believe that you, that is the sword, would come
upon them, and said that the prophets who threatened spoke lies, yet you will as surely come as
though you were already on their necks.

<h2>Ezekiel 22</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 22:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 22:2>Ezekiel 22:2</verse></h3>

<page=2082>Now, thou son of man, wilt thou (a) judge, wilt thou judge the bloody city? yea, thou shalt show her
all her abominations.



(a) Are you ready to execute your charge, which I commit to you against Jerusalem that murders the
prophets and them that are godly?
#BCV:Ezekiel 22:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 22:3>Ezekiel 22:3</verse></h3>



Then say thou, Thus saith the Lord GOD, The city sheddeth blood in the midst of it, that her (b)
time may come, and maketh idols against (c) herself to defile herself.



(b) That is, the time of her destruction.



(c) To her own undoing.
#BCV:Ezekiel 22:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 22:5>Ezekiel 22:5</verse></h3>



[Those that are] near, and [those that are] far from thee, shall mock thee, [who art] (d) infamous [and]
much troubled.



(d) Whose very name all men hate.
#BCV:Ezekiel 22:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 22:7>Ezekiel 22:7</verse></h3>



In thee have they set light by father and mother: in the midst of thee (e) have they dealt by
oppression with the stranger: in thee have they oppressed the fatherless and the widow.



(e) He means by this that there was no kind of wickedness which was not committed in Jerusalem
and therefore the plagues of God would speedily come on her.
#BCV:Ezekiel 22:13
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 22:13>Ezekiel 22:13</verse></h3>



Behold, therefore I have (f) smitten my hand at thy dishonest gain which thou hast made, and at thy
blood which hath been in the midst of thee.



(f) In token of my wrath and vengeance.
#BCV:Ezekiel 22:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 22:14>Ezekiel 22:14</verse></h3>

<page=2083>Can thy heart endure, or can thy hands (g) be strong, in the days that I shall deal with thee? I the
LORD have spoken [it], and will do [it].



(g) That is, able to defend yourself.
#BCV:Ezekiel 22:15
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 22:15>Ezekiel 22:15</verse></h3>



And I will scatter thee among the nations, and disperse thee in the countries, and will consume thy



(h) filthiness out of thee.



(h) I will thus take away the occasion of your wickedness.
#BCV:Ezekiel 22:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 22:16>Ezekiel 22:16</verse></h3>



And thou shalt take thy (i) inheritance in thyself in the sight of the nations, and thou shalt know that
I [am] the LORD.



(i) You will be no more the inheritance of the Lord, but forsaken.
#BCV:Ezekiel 22:18
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 22:18>Ezekiel 22:18</verse></h3>



Son of man, the house of Israel is to me become (k) dross: all they [are] brass, and tin, and iron, and
lead, in the midst of the furnace; they are [even] the dross of silver.



(k) Which before was most precious.
#BCV:Ezekiel 22:20
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 22:20>Ezekiel 22:20</verse></h3>



[As] they gather silver, and brass, and iron, and lead, and tin, into the midst of the furnace, to blow
the fire upon it, to melt [it]; so will I gather [you] in my anger and in my fury, and I will leave [you
there], (l) and melt you.



(l) Meaning by this that the godly would be tried and the wicked destroyed.
#BCV:Ezekiel 22:24
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 22:24>Ezekiel 22:24</verse></h3>



Son of man, say to her, Thou [art] the land that is not cleansed, (m) nor rained upon in the day of
indignation.



(m) You are like a barren land which the Lord plagues with drought.
#BCV:Ezekiel 22:25
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 22:25>Ezekiel 22:25</verse></h3>

<page=2084>[There is] a conspiracy (n) of her prophets in the midst of her, like a roaring lion ravening the prey;
they have devoured souls; they have taken the treasure and precious things; they have made her
many widows in the midst of her.



(n) The false prophets have conspired together to make their doctrine more probable.
#BCV:Ezekiel 22:26
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 22:26>Ezekiel 22:26</verse></h3>



Her priests have violated my law, and have profaned my holy things: they have put no difference
between the holy and profane, neither have they shown [difference] between the unclean and the
clean, and have hid their (o) eyes from my sabbaths, and I am profaned among them.



(o) They have neglected my service.
#BCV:Ezekiel 22:28
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 22:28>Ezekiel 22:28</verse></h3>



And her (p) prophets have daubed them with untempered [mortar], seeing vanity, and divining lies to
them, saying, Thus saith the Lord GOD, when the LORD hath not spoken.



(p) They who would have reproved them, flattered them in their vices and covered their doings with
lies. See<bcv=Ezek 13:10> Eze 13:10</bcv>
#BCV:Ezekiel 22:30
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 22:30>Ezekiel 22:30</verse></h3>



And I sought for a man among them, that should (q) make up the hedge, and stand in the gap
before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none.



(q) Who would show himself zealous in my cause by resisting vice, (<bcv=Isa 59:16>Isa 59:16</bcv>) also pray to me to
withhold my plagues, (<bcv=Psa 106:23>Psa 106:23</bcv>).

<h2>Ezekiel 23</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 23:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:2>Ezekiel 23:2</verse></h3>

<page=2085>Son of man, there were two women, the daughters of one (a) mother:



(a) Meaning, Israel and Judah who both came out of one family.
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:3>Ezekiel 23:3</verse></h3>



And they committed harlotries in (b) Egypt; they committed harlotries in their youth: there were
their breasts pressed, and there they bruised the teats of their virginity.



(b) They became idolaters after the manner of the Egyptians.
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:4>Ezekiel 23:4</verse></h3>



And the names of (c) them [were] Aholah the elder, and Aholibah her sister: and they were mine,
and they bore sons and daughters. Thus [were] their names; Samaria [is] Aholah, and Jerusalem
Aholibah.



(c) Aholah signifies a mansion or dwelling in herself, meaning Samaria, which was the royal city of
Israel and Aholibah signifies my mansion in her, by which is meant Jerusalem, where God's temple
was.
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:5>Ezekiel 23:5</verse></h3>



And Aholah played the harlot when (d) she was mine; and she doted on her lovers, on the Assyrians
[her] neighbours,



(d) When the Israelites were named the people of God, they became idolaters and forsook God, and
put their trust in the Assyrians.
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:8>Ezekiel 23:8</verse></h3>



Neither left she her harlotries [brought] from Egypt: for in her youth they (e) lay with her, and they
bruised the breasts of her virginity, and poured their immorality upon her.



(e) The Holy Spirit uses these terms which seem strange to chaste ears, to cause this wicked vice of
idolatry to be so abhorred that no one could stand to hear the name of it.
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:10>Ezekiel 23:10</verse></h3>

<page=2086>These uncovered her nakedness: they took her sons and her daughters, and slew her with the sword:
and she became a byword among women; for (f) they had executed judgment upon her.



(f) Meaning the Assyrians.
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:14>Ezekiel 23:14</verse></h3>



And [that] she increased her harlotries: for when she saw men (g) portrayed upon the wall, the
images of the Chaldeans portrayed with vermilion,



(g) This declares that no words are able to sufficiently express the rage of idolaters and therefore the
Holy Spirit here compares them to those who in their raging love and filthy lusts dote on the images
and paintings of them after whom they lust.
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:23
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:23>Ezekiel 23:23</verse></h3>



The Babylonians, and all the Chaldeans, (h) Pekod, and Shoa, and Koa, [and] all the Assyrians with
them: all of them desirable young men, captains and rulers, great lords and renowned, all of them
riding upon horses.



(h) These were the names of certain princes and captains under Nebuchadnezzar.
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:25
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:25>Ezekiel 23:25</verse></h3>



And I will set my jealousy against thee, and they shall deal furiously with thee: they shall take away
thy (i) nose and thy ears; and thy remnant shall fall by the sword: they shall take thy sons and thy
daughters; and thy remnant shall be devoured by the fire.



(i) They will destroy your princes and priests with the rest of your people.
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:29
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:29>Ezekiel 23:29</verse></h3>



And they shall deal with thee in hatred, and shall take away all thy (k) labour, and shall leave thee
naked and bare: and the nakedness of thy harlotries (l) shall be uncovered, both thy lewdness and
thy harlotries.



(k) All your treasures and riches which you have gotten by labour.



(l) All the world will see your shameful forsaking of God to serve idols.
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:31
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:31>Ezekiel 23:31</verse></h3>



Thou hast walked in the way of thy sister; therefore will I give her (m) cup into thy hand.



(m) I will execute the same judgments and vengeance against you and that with greater severity.
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:33
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:33>Ezekiel 23:33</verse></h3>

<page=2087>Thou shalt be filled with (n) drunkenness and sorrow, with the cup of horror and desolation, with
the cup of thy sister Samaria.



(n) Meaning that it's afflictions would be so great that they would cause them to lose their senses and
reason.
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:37
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:37>Ezekiel 23:37</verse></h3>



That they have committed adultery, and blood [is] in their hands, and with their idols have they
committed adultery, and have also caused their sons, whom they bore to me, to pass for them
through [the fire], to (o) devour [them].



(o) That is, to be sacrifices to their idols, read (<bcv=Ezek 16:20>Eze 16:20</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:40
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:40>Ezekiel 23:40</verse></h3>



And furthermore, that ye have sent for men to come from (p) far, to whom a messenger [was] sent;
and, lo, they came: for whom thou didst wash thyself, didst paint thy eyes, and didst deck thyself
with ornaments,



(p) They sent into other countries to have such as would teach the service of their idols.
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:41
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:41>Ezekiel 23:41</verse></h3>



And satest (q) upon a stately bed, and a table prepared before it, upon which thou hast set my
incense and my oil.



(q) He means the altar that was prepared for the idols.
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:42
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:42>Ezekiel 23:42</verse></h3>



And a voice of a multitude being at ease [was] with her: and with the men of the common sort
[were] brought (r) Sabeans from the wilderness, who put bracelets upon their hands, and beautiful
crowns upon their heads.



(r) Who would teach the manner of worshipping their gods.
#BCV:Ezekiel 23:45
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:45>Ezekiel 23:45</verse></h3>



And the righteous men, they shall judge them after the manner of (s) adulteresses, and after the
manner of women that shed blood; because they [are] adulteresses, and blood [is] in their hands.

<page=2088>(s) That is worthy of death, <bcv=Eze 16:38>(Eze 16:38).</bcv>

#BCV:Ezekiel 23:48
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 23:48>Ezekiel 23:48</verse></h3>



Thus will I cause lewdness to cease out of the land, that all (t) women may be taught not to do after
your lewdness.



(t) Meaning, all other cities and countries.

<h2>Ezekiel 24</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 24:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 24:1>Ezekiel 24:1</verse></h3>

<page=2089>Again in the (a) ninth year, in the tenth month, in the tenth [day] of the (b) month, the word of the
LORD came to me, saying,



(a) Of Jeconiah's captivity and of the reign of Zedekiah, (<bcv=II Ki 25:1>Kg2 25:1</bcv>).



(b) Called Tebeth, which contains part of December and part of January: in which month and day
Nebuchadnezzar besieged Jerusalem.
#BCV:Ezekiel 24:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 24:3>Ezekiel 24:3</verse></h3>



And utter a parable to the rebellious house, and say to them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Set on a (c)
pot, set [it] on, and also pour water into it:



(c) By which was meant Jerusalem.
#BCV:Ezekiel 24:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 24:4>Ezekiel 24:4</verse></h3>



Gather its (d) pieces into it, [even] every good piece, the thigh, and the shoulder; fill [it] with the
choice bones.



(d) That is the citizens and the chief men of it.
#BCV:Ezekiel 24:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 24:5>Ezekiel 24:5</verse></h3>



Take the choice of the flock, and burn also the (e) bones under it, [and] make it boil well, and let
them boil its bones in it.



(e) Meaning, of the innocents whom they had slain, who were the cause of the kindling of God's
wrath against them.
#BCV:Ezekiel 24:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 24:6>Ezekiel 24:6</verse></h3>



Wherefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Woe to the bloody city, to the pot (f) whose scum [is] in it, and
whose scum is not gone out of it! bring it out (g) piece by piece; let no (h) lot fall upon it.



(f) Whose iniquities and wicked citizens there yet remain.



(g) Signifying that they should not be destroyed all at once, but little by little.



(h) Spare no estate or condition.
#BCV:Ezekiel 24:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 24:7>Ezekiel 24:7</verse></h3>

#BCV:eze 24:7
<h3><verse=eze 24:7>eze 24:7</verse></h3>



ground, to cover it with dust;



(i) The city showed her cruelty to all the world, and was not ashamed of it, neither yet hid it.
#BCV:Ezekiel 24:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 24:10>Ezekiel 24:10</verse></h3>



Heap on wood, (k) kindle the fire, consume the flesh, and spice it well, and let the bones be burned.



(k) Meaning that the city would be utterly destroyed and that he would give the enemies an appetite
for it.
#BCV:Ezekiel 24:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 24:12>Ezekiel 24:12</verse></h3>




(l) She hath wearied [herself] with lies, and her great scum went not forth out of her: her scum [shall
be] in the fire.



(l) The city has flattered herself in vain.
#BCV:Ezekiel 24:13
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 24:13>Ezekiel 24:13</verse></h3>



In thy filthiness [is] lewdness: because I (m) have purged thee, and thou wast not purged, thou shalt
not be purged from thy filthiness any more, till I have caused my fury to rest upon thee.



(m) I laboured by sending my prophets to call you to repentance but you would not.
#BCV:Ezekiel 24:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 24:14>Ezekiel 24:14</verse></h3>



I the LORD have spoken [it]: it shall come to pass, and I will do [it]; I will not go back, neither will I
spare, neither will I repent; according to thy ways, and according to thy doings, shall (n) they judge
thee, saith the Lord GOD.



(n) That is, the Babylonians.
#BCV:Ezekiel 24:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 24:16>Ezekiel 24:16</verse></h3>



Son of man, behold, I take away from thee the (o) desire of thy eyes with a stroke: yet neither shalt
thou mourn nor weep, neither shall thy tears run down.



(o) Meaning his wife in whom he delighted, as in (<bcv=Ezek 24:18>Eze 24:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 24:17
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 24:17>Ezekiel 24:17</verse></h3>

<page=2091>Forbear to cry, make no mourning for the dead, bind thy turban upon thee, (p) and put on thy shoes
upon thy feet, and cover not [thy] lips, and eat (q) not the bread of men.



(p) For in mourning they went bare headed and barefooted and also covered their lips.



(q) That is, which the neighbours sent to them that mourned.
#BCV:Ezekiel 24:18
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 24:18>Ezekiel 24:18</verse></h3>



So I spoke to the people in the morning: and at evening my wife died; and I did (r) in the morning as
I was commanded.



(r) Meaning the morning following.
#BCV:Ezekiel 24:21
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 24:21>Ezekiel 24:21</verse></h3>



Speak to the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will (s) profane my sanctuary, the



(t) excellence of your strength, the desire of your eyes, and that which your soul pitieth; and your
sons and your daughters whom ye have left shall fall by the sword.



(s) By sending the Chaldeans to destroy it, as in See<bcv=Ezek 7:22> Eze 7:22</bcv>.



(t) In which you boast and delight.

<h2>Ezekiel 25</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 25:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 25:3>Ezekiel 25:3</verse></h3>

<page=2092>And say to the Ammonites, Hear the word of the Lord GOD; Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because
thou saidst, (a) Aha, against my sanctuary, when it was profaned; and against the land of Israel,
when it was desolate; and against the house of Judah, when they went into captivity;



(a) Because you rejoiced when the enemy destroyed my city and temple.
#BCV:Ezekiel 25:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 25:4>Ezekiel 25:4</verse></h3>



Behold, therefore I will deliver thee to the (b) men of the east for a possession, and they shall set
their (c) palaces in thee, and make their dwellings in thee: they shall eat thy fruit, and they shall drink
thy milk.



(b) That is, to the Babylonians.



(c) They will chase you away, and take your gorgeous houses to dwell in.
#BCV:Ezekiel 25:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 25:5>Ezekiel 25:5</verse></h3>



And I will make (d) Rabbah a stable for camels, and the Ammonites a couchingplace for flocks: and
ye shall know that I [am] the LORD.



(d) Called also Philadelphin, which was the chief city of the Ammonites and full of conveniences,



(<bcv=II Sa 12:27>Sa2 12:27</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 25:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 25:9>Ezekiel 25:9</verse></h3>



Therefore, behold, I will open the side of Moab from the cities, (e) from his cities [which are] on his
frontiers, the glory of the country, Bethjeshimoth, Baalmeon, and Kiriathaim,



(e) So that no power or strength should be able to resist the Babylonians.
#BCV:Ezekiel 25:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 25:16>Ezekiel 25:16</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will stretch out my hand upon the Philistines, and I
will cut off the (f) Cherethims, and destroy the remnant of the sea coast.



(f) Which were certain garrisons of Philistines by which they often molested the Jews, of the
Cherethims David also had a guard, (<bcv=II Sa 8:18>Sa2 8:18</bcv>).

<h2>Ezekiel 26</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 26:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 26:1>Ezekiel 26:1</verse></h3>

<page=2093>And it came to pass in the (a) eleventh year, in the first [day] of the month, [that] the word of the
LORD came to me, saying,



(a) Either of the captivity of Jeconiah or of the reign of Zedekiah.
#BCV:Ezekiel 26:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 26:2>Ezekiel 26:2</verse></h3>



Son of man, because that Tyre hath said against Jerusalem, Aha, she is broken [that was] the (b)
gates of the people: she is turned to me: I shall be (c) replenished, [now] she is laid waste:



(b) That is, the famous city Jerusalem to which all people resorted.



(c) My riches and fame will increase: thus the wicked rejoice at their fall by whom they may have any
profit or advantage.
#BCV:Ezekiel 26:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 26:6>Ezekiel 26:6</verse></h3>



And her (d) daughters who [are] in the field shall be slain by the sword; and they shall know that I
[am] the LORD.



(d) The towns that belonged to her.
#BCV:Ezekiel 26:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 26:11>Ezekiel 26:11</verse></h3>



With the hoofs of his horses shall he tread down all thy streets: he shall slay thy people by the sword,
and thy strong (e) garrisons shall go down to the ground.



(e) For Tyre was built by art and by labour of men was won out of the sea. Some refer this to the
image of the noble men which they had erected for their glory and renown.
#BCV:Ezekiel 26:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 26:14>Ezekiel 26:14</verse></h3>



And I will make thee like the top of a rock: (f) thou shalt be [a place] to spread nets upon; thou shalt
be built no more: for I the LORD have spoken [it], saith the Lord GOD.



(f) I will make you so bare that you will have nothing to cover you.
#BCV:Ezekiel 26:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 26:16>Ezekiel 26:16</verse></h3>

<page=2094>Then all the princes of the (g) sea shall come down from their thrones, and lay away their robes, and
put off their embroidered garments: they shall clothe themselves with trembling; they shall sit upon
the ground, and shall tremble at [every] moment, and be astonished at thee.



(g) The governors and rulers of other countries that dwell by the sea: by which he signifies that her
destruction would be so horrible that all the world would hear of it and be afraid.
#BCV:Ezekiel 26:17
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 26:17>Ezekiel 26:17</verse></h3>



And they shall take up a lamentation for thee, and say to thee, How art thou destroyed, [that wast]
inhabited (h) by seafaring men, the renowned city, which wast strong in the sea, she and her
inhabitants, who cause their terror [to be] on all that dwelt in it!



(h) Meaning, merchants who by their traffic enriched her wonderfully and increased her power.
#BCV:Ezekiel 26:20
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 26:20>Ezekiel 26:20</verse></h3>



When I shall bring thee down with them that descend into the pit, with the people (o) of old time,
and shall set thee in the low parts of the earth, in places desolate of old, with them that go down to
the pit, that thou be not inhabited; and I shall set glory in the land of the (k) living;



(i) Who were dead long ago.



(k) Meaning in Judea when it will be restored.

<h2>Ezekiel 27</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 27:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 27:3>Ezekiel 27:3</verse></h3>

<page=2095>And say to Tyre, O thou that dwelleth at the entrance of the sea, [which art] a merchant (a) of the
people for many isles, Thus saith the Lord GOD; O Tyre, thou hast said, I [am] of perfect beauty.



(a) Which serves all the world with your merchandise.
#BCV:Ezekiel 27:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 27:5>Ezekiel 27:5</verse></h3>



They have made all thy [ship] planks of fir trees of (b) Senir: they have taken cedars from Lebanon
to make masts for thee.



(b) This mountain was called Hermon but the Amorites called it Shenir, (<bcv=Deu 3:9>Deu 3:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 27:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 27:6>Ezekiel 27:6</verse></h3>



[Of] the oaks of Bashan have they made thy oars; the company of the Ashurites have made thy
benches [of] ivory, [brought] out of the isles of (c) Chittim.



(c) Which is taken for Greece and Italy.
#BCV:Ezekiel 27:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 27:9>Ezekiel 27:9</verse></h3>



The ancients of Gebal and its wise [men] were in thee thy (d) calkers: all the ships of the sea with
their mariners were in thee to exchange thy merchandise.



(d) Meaning, that they built the walls of the city, which is here meant by the ship: and of these were
the builders of Solomon's temple, (<bcv=I Ki 5:18>Kg1 5:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 27:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 27:11>Ezekiel 27:11</verse></h3>



The men of Arvad with thy army [were] upon thy walls on all sides, and the (e) Gammadims were in
thy towers: they hung their shields upon thy walls on every side; they have made thy beauty perfect.



(e) That is they of Cappadocia, or pygmies and dwarfs which were called because from the high
towers they seemed little.
#BCV:Ezekiel 27:13
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 27:13>Ezekiel 27:13</verse></h3>




(f) Javan, Tubal, and Meshech, they [were] thy merchants: they traded (g) in the persons of men and
vessels of brass in thy market.

<page=2096>(f) Of Greece, Italy and Cappadocia.



(g) By selling slaves.
#BCV:Ezekiel 27:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 27:14>Ezekiel 27:14</verse></h3>



They of the house of (h) Togarmah traded in thy fairs with horses and horsemen and mules.



(h) Which are taken for a people of Asia minor.
#BCV:Ezekiel 27:15
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 27:15>Ezekiel 27:15</verse></h3>



The men of Dedan [were] thy merchants; many isles [were] the merchandise of thy hand: they
brought thee [for] a present (i) horns of ivory and ebony.



(i) Meaning, unicorn's horns and elephant's teeth.
#BCV:Ezekiel 27:17
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 27:17>Ezekiel 27:17</verse></h3>



Judah, and the land of Israel, they [were] thy merchants: they traded in thy market in wheat of (k)
Minnith, and Pannag, and honey, and oil, and balm.



(k) Where the best wheat grew.
#BCV:Ezekiel 27:26
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 27:26>Ezekiel 27:26</verse></h3>



Thy rowers have brought thee into great waters: the (l) east wind hath broken thee in the midst of
the seas.



(l) That is, Nebuchadnezzar.
#BCV:Ezekiel 27:28
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 27:28>Ezekiel 27:28</verse></h3>



The (m) common lands shall shake at the sound of the cry of thy pilots.



(m) That is, the cities near you, as Zidon, Arund and others.
#BCV:Ezekiel 27:36
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 27:36>Ezekiel 27:36</verse></h3>



The merchants among the people shall hiss at thee; thou shalt be a terror, and never [shalt be] (n)
any more.



(n) By which is meant a long time: for it was prophesied to be destroyed but seventy years, (<bcv=Isa 23:15>Isa 23:15</bcv>).

<h2>Ezekiel 28</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 28:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 28:2>Ezekiel 28:2</verse></h3>

<page=2097>Son of man, say to the prince of Tyre, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because thy heart [is] lifted up,
and thou hast said, (a) I [am] a god, I sit [in] the seat of God, in the midst of the seas; yet thou [art]
a man, and not God, though thou settest thy heart as the heart of God:



(a) I am safe as God is safe in the heavens and no one can hurt me.
#BCV:Ezekiel 28:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 28:3>Ezekiel 28:3</verse></h3>



Behold, thou [art] wiser than (b) Daniel; there is no secret that they can hide from thee:



(b) Thus he speaks by derision: for Daniel had declared notable signs of his wisdom in Babylon,
when Ezekiel wrote this.
#BCV:Ezekiel 28:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 28:10>Ezekiel 28:10</verse></h3>



Thou shalt die the deaths of the (c) uncircumcised by the hand of strangers: for I have spoken [it],
saith the Lord GOD.



(c) Like the rest of the heathen and infidels who are God's enemies.
#BCV:Ezekiel 28:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 28:12>Ezekiel 28:12</verse></h3>



Son of man, take up a lamentation upon the king of Tyre, and say to him, Thus saith the Lord
GOD; Thou sealest up the sum, full of (d) wisdom, and perfect in beauty.



(d) He derides the vain opinion and confidence that the Tyrians had in their riches, strength and
pleasures.
#BCV:Ezekiel 28:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 28:14>Ezekiel 28:14</verse></h3>



Thou [art] (e) the anointed cherub that covereth; and I have set thee (f) [so]: thou wast upon the
holy mountain of God; thou hast walked up and down in the midst of the (g) stones of fire.



(e) He means the royal state of Tyre, which for the excellency and glory of it he compares to the
cherubim which covered the Ark, and by "anointed" he signifies the same.



(f) I did you this honour to make you one of the builders of my temple, which was when Hiram
sent to Solomon things necessary for the work.



(g) That is, among my people Israel, which shined as precious stones.
#BCV:Ezekiel 28:15
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 28:15>Ezekiel 28:15</verse></h3>

<page=2098>Thou [wast] perfect in thy ways from the day that thou wast (h) created, till iniquity was found in
thee.



(h) Which was when I first called you to this dignity.
#BCV:Ezekiel 28:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 28:16>Ezekiel 28:16</verse></h3>



By the multitude of thy merchandise they have filled the midst of thee with violence, and thou hast
sinned: therefore I will cast thee as profane out of the (i) mountain of God: and I will destroy thee,
O covering cherub, from the midst of the stones of fire.



(i) You will have no part among my people.
#BCV:Ezekiel 28:18
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 28:18>Ezekiel 28:18</verse></h3>



Thou hast defiled thy (k) sanctuaries by the multitude of thy iniquities, by the iniquity of thy
merchandise; therefore will I bring forth a fire from the midst of thee, it shall devour thee, and I will
bring thee to ashes upon the earth in the sight of all them that behold thee.



(k) That is, the honour to which I called them.
#BCV:Ezekiel 28:22
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 28:22>Ezekiel 28:22</verse></h3>



And say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I [am] against thee, O Zidon; and I will be (l) glorified
in the midst of thee: and they shall know that I [am] the LORD, when I shall have executed
judgments in her, and shall be sanctified in her.



(l) By executing my judgments against your wickedness.
#BCV:Ezekiel 28:23
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 28:23>Ezekiel 28:23</verse></h3>



For I will send into her pestilence, and blood into her streets; and the wounded shall be judged in
the midst of her (m) by the sword upon her on every side; and they shall know that I [am] the
LORD.



(m) That is Nebuchadnezzar.
#BCV:Ezekiel 28:25
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 28:25>Ezekiel 28:25</verse></h3>

<page=2099>Thus saith the Lord GOD; When I shall have gathered the house of Israel from the people among
whom they are scattered, and shall be (n) sanctified in them in the sight of the nations, then shall
they dwell in their land that I have given to my servant Jacob.



(n) He shows why God will assemble his Church and preserve it, though he destroy his enemies: that
is, that they should praise him, and give thanks for his great mercies.

<h2>Ezekiel 29</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 29:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 29:1>Ezekiel 29:1</verse></h3>

<page=2100>In the (a) tenth year, in the tenth [month], in the twelfth [day] of the month, the word of the LORD
came to me, saying,



(a) That is, of the captivity of Jeconiah, or of the reign of Zedekiah. Of the order of these
prophecies, and how the former sometimes stands after the latter. See<bcv=Jer 27:1> Jer 27:1</bcv>
#BCV:Ezekiel 29:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 29:3>Ezekiel 29:3</verse></h3>



Speak, and say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I [am] against thee, Pharaoh king of Egypt, the
great (b) dragon that lieth in the midst of his rivers, which hath said, My river [is] my own, and I
have made [it] for myself.



(b) He compares Pharaoh to a dragon which hides himself in the Nile river, as in (<bcv=Isa 51:9>Isa 51:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 29:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 29:4>Ezekiel 29:4</verse></h3>



But I will put (c) hooks in thy jaws, and I will cause the fish of thy rivers to stick to thy scales, and I
will bring thee out of the midst of thy rivers, and all the fish of thy rivers shall stick to thy scales.



(c) I will send enemies against you who will pluck you and your people which trust in you out of
your sure places.
#BCV:Ezekiel 29:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 29:6>Ezekiel 29:6</verse></h3>



And all the inhabitants of Egypt shall know that I [am] the LORD, because they have been a staff
of (d) reed to the house of Israel.



(d) Read (<bcv=II Ki 18:21>Kg2 18:21</bcv>;<bcv=Isa 36:6> Isa 36:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 29:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 29:7>Ezekiel 29:7</verse></h3>



When they took hold of thee by thy hand, thou didst break, and tear all their shoulder: and when
they leaned upon thee, thou didst break, and make all their inward parts to (e) shake.



(e) When you felt their hurt, they would stay no more on you, but stood on their feet and put their
trust in others.
#BCV:Ezekiel 29:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 29:9>Ezekiel 29:9</verse></h3>

<page=2101>And the land of Egypt shall be desolate and waste; and they shall know that I [am] the LORD:
because he hath said, (f) The river [is] mine, and I have made [it].



(f) Thus God cannot permit man to attribute anything to himself or put his trust in anything save in
him alone.
#BCV:Ezekiel 29:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 29:14>Ezekiel 29:14</verse></h3>



And I will bring again the captives of Egypt, and will cause them to return [into] the land of Pathros,
into the land of their habitation; and they shall be there a (g) base kingdom.



(g) Meaning, that they would not have full dominion but be under the Persians, Greeks and Romans,
and the reason is that the Israelites would no more put their trust in them, but learn to depend on
God.
#BCV:Ezekiel 29:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 29:16>Ezekiel 29:16</verse></h3>



And it shall be no more the confidence of the house of Israel, which bringeth [their] (h) iniquity to
remembrance, when they shall look after them: but they shall know that I [am] the Lord GOD.



(h) Lest I should by this means punish their sins.
#BCV:Ezekiel 29:17
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 29:17>Ezekiel 29:17</verse></h3>



And it came to pass in the (i) seven and twentieth year, in the first [month], in the first [day] of the
month, the word of the LORD came to me, saying,



(i) Counting from the captivity of Jeconiah.
#BCV:Ezekiel 29:18
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 29:18>Ezekiel 29:18</verse></h3>



Son of man, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon caused his army to serve a great (k) service against
Tyre: every head [was] made bald, and every shoulder [was] rubbed raw: yet had he no wages, (l) nor
his army, for Tyre, for the service that he had served against it:



(k) He took great pains at the siege of Tyre and his army was sore handled.



(l) Signifying that Nebuchadnezzar had more pains than profit by the taking of Tyre.

<h2>Ezekiel 30</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 30:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 30:5>Ezekiel 30:5</verse></h3>


<page=2102>(a) Cush, and Libya, and Lydia, and all the mingled people, and Chub, and the men of the land that
is in league, shall fall with them by the sword.



(a) By Phut and Lud are meant Africa and Libya.
#BCV:Ezekiel 30:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 30:6>Ezekiel 30:6</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; They also that uphold Egypt shall fall; and the pride of her power shall come
down: from the tower of (b) Syene shall they fall in it by the sword, saith the Lord GOD.



(b) Which was a strong city of Egypt, (<bcv=Ezek 29:10>Eze 29:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 30:18
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 30:18>Ezekiel 30:18</verse></h3>



At Tehaphnehes also the day (c) shall be darkened, when I shall break there the (d) yokes of Egypt:
and the pomp of her strength shall cease in her: as for her, a cloud shall cover her, and her
daughters shall go into captivity.



(c) Meaning that there will be great sorrow and affliction.



(d) That is, the strength and force.
#BCV:Ezekiel 30:20
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 30:20>Ezekiel 30:20</verse></h3>



And it came to pass in the (e) eleventh year, in the first [month], in the seventh [day] of the month,
[that] the word of the LORD came to me, saying,



(e) Of the captivity of Jeconiah, or of Zedekiah's reign.
#BCV:Ezekiel 30:21
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 30:21>Ezekiel 30:21</verse></h3>



Son of man, (f) I have broken the arm of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and, lo, it shall not be bound up
to be healed, to put a bandage to bind it, to make it strong to hold the sword.



(f) For Nebuchadnezzar destroyed Pharaoh Nebo at Carchemish, (<bcv=Jer 46:26>Jer 46:26</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 30:22
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 30:22>Ezekiel 30:22</verse></h3>

<page=2103>Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I [am] against Pharaoh king of Egypt, and will break



(g) his arms, the strong, and that which was broken; and I will cause the sword to fall out of his
hand.



(g) His force and power.
#BCV:Ezekiel 30:25
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 30:25>Ezekiel 30:25</verse></h3>



But I will strengthen the arms of the king of Babylon, and the arms of Pharaoh shall fall down; and
they shall know that I [am] the LORD, (h) when I shall put my sword into the hand of the king of
Babylon, and he shall stretch it out upon the land of Egypt.



(h) By which we see that tyrants have no power of themselves, neither can do any more harm than
God appoints and when he wills they must cease.

<h2>Ezekiel 31</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 31:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 31:1>Ezekiel 31:1</verse></h3>

<page=2104>And it came to pass in the (a) eleventh year, in the third [month], in the first [day] of the month,
[that] the word of the LORD came to me, saying,



(a) Of Zedekiah's reign, or of Jeconiah's captivity.
#BCV:Ezekiel 31:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 31:2>Ezekiel 31:2</verse></h3>



Son of man, speak to Pharaoh king of Egypt, and to his multitude; Whom art thou (b) like in thy
greatness?



(b) Meaning that he was not the same in strength to the king of the Assyrians whom the
Babylonians overcame.
#BCV:Ezekiel 31:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 31:4>Ezekiel 31:4</verse></h3>



The waters made him great, the deep set him up on high with her rivers running round his plants,
and sent out her (c) little rivers to all the trees of the field.



(c) Many other nations were under their dominion.
#BCV:Ezekiel 31:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 31:8>Ezekiel 31:8</verse></h3>



The cedars in the garden (d) of God could not hide him: the fir trees were not like his boughs, and
the chesnut trees were not like his branches; not any tree in the garden of God was like him in his
beauty.



(d) Signifying that there was no greater power in the world than his was.
#BCV:Ezekiel 31:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 31:11>Ezekiel 31:11</verse></h3>



I have therefore delivered him into the hand of the (e) mighty one of the nations; he shall surely
deal with him: I have driven him out for his wickedness.



(e) That is, of Nebuchadnezzar, who was the monarch and only ruler of the world.
#BCV:Ezekiel 31:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 31:12>Ezekiel 31:12</verse></h3>

<page=2105>And strangers, the terrible of the nations, have cut him off, and have left him: upon the mountains
and in all the valleys his branches are fallen, and his boughs are (f) broken by all the rivers of the
land; and all the people of the earth have gone down from his shadow, and have left him.



(f) By this is signified the destruction of the power of the Assyrians by the Babylonians.
#BCV:Ezekiel 31:15
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 31:15>Ezekiel 31:15</verse></h3>



Thus saith the Lord GOD; In the day when he went down to the grave I caused a mourning: I (g)
covered the deep for him, and I restrained its floods, and the great waters were stayed: and I caused
Lebanon to mourn for him, and all the trees of the field fainted for him.



(g) The deep waters that caused him to mount so high (meaning his great abundance and pomp) will
now lament as though they were covered with sackcloth.
#BCV:Ezekiel 31:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 31:16>Ezekiel 31:16</verse></h3>



I made the nations to shake at the sound of his fall, when I cast him down to the grave with them
that descend into the pit: and all the trees of Eden, the choice and best of Lebanon, all that drink
water, shall (h) be comforted in the lower parts of the earth.



(h) To cause this destruction of the king of Assyria to seem more horrible, he sets forth other kings
and princes who are dead, as though they rejoiced at the fall of such a tyrant.
#BCV:Ezekiel 31:18
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 31:18>Ezekiel 31:18</verse></h3>



To whom (i) art thou thus like in glory and in greatness among the trees of Eden? yet shalt thou be
brought down with the trees of Eden to the lower parts of the earth: thou shalt lie in the midst of
the (k) uncircumcised with [them that are] slain by the sword. This [is] Pharaoh and all his multitude,
saith the Lord GOD.



(i) Meaning that Pharaoh's power was nothing so great as his was.



(k) Read (<bcv=Ezek 28:10>Eze 28:10</bcv>).

<h2>Ezekiel 32</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 32:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:1>Ezekiel 32:1</verse></h3>

<page=2106>And it came to pass in the (a) twelfth year, in the twelfth month, in the first [day] of the month, [that]
the word of the LORD came to me, saying,



(a) Which was the first year of the general captivity under Zedekiah.
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:2>Ezekiel 32:2</verse></h3>



Son of man, take up a lamentation for Pharaoh king of Egypt, and say to him, Thou art like a young



(b) lion of the nations, and thou [art] as a whale in the seas: and thou didst come forth with thy
rivers, and didst (c) trouble the waters with thy feet, and didst foul their rivers.



(b) Thus the scriptures compare tyrants to cruel and huge beasts which devour all that are weaker
than they and such as they may overcome.



(c) You prepared great armies.
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:5>Ezekiel 32:5</verse></h3>



And I will lay thy flesh upon the mountains, and fill the valleys (d) with thy height.



(d) With heaps of the carcass of your army.
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:6>Ezekiel 32:6</verse></h3>



I will also water with thy blood the land in which thou (e) swimmest, [even] to the mountains; and
the rivers shall be full of thee.



(e) As the Nile overflows in Egypt, so will I make the blood of your host overflow it.
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:7>Ezekiel 32:7</verse></h3>



And when I shall (f) put thee out, I will cover the heaven, and make its stars dark; I will cover the
sun with a cloud, and the moon shall not give her light.



(f) The word signifies to be put out as a candle is put out.
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:8>Ezekiel 32:8</verse></h3>

<page=2107>All the bright lights of heaven will I make dark over thee, and set (g) darkness upon thy land, saith
the Lord GOD.



(g) By this manner of speech is meant the great sorrow that will be for the slaughter of the king and
his people.
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:12>Ezekiel 32:12</verse></h3>



By the swords of the mighty will I cause thy multitude to fall, the terrible of the nations, all of them:
and they shall lay waste the (h) pomp of Egypt, and all its multitude shall be destroyed.



(h) This came to pass in less than four years after this prophecy.
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:14>Ezekiel 32:14</verse></h3>



Then will I make (i) their waters deep, and cause their rivers to run like oil, saith the Lord GOD.



(i) That is, of the Chaldeans your enemies, who will quietly enjoy all your conveniences.
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:18
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:18>Ezekiel 32:18</verse></h3>



Son of man, wail for the multitude of Egypt, and (k) cast them down, [even] her, and the daughters
of the famous nations, to the lower parts of the earth, with them that go down into the pit.



(k) That is, prophecy that they will be cast down: thus the Lord gives his prophets power both to
plant and to destroy by his word, read (<bcv=Jer 1:10>Jer 1:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:19
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:19>Ezekiel 32:19</verse></h3>



Whom dost thou pass (l) in beauty? go down, and be thou laid with the uncircumcised.



(l) Have not other kingdoms more beautiful than you perished?
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:20
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:20>Ezekiel 32:20</verse></h3>



They shall fall in the midst of [them that are] slain by the sword: (m) she is delivered to the sword:
draw her and all her multitudes.



(m) That is, Egypt.
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:21
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:21>Ezekiel 32:21</verse></h3>



The strong among the mighty shall speak to (n) him out of the midst of the grave with them that
help him: they are gone down, they lie uncircumcised, slain by the sword.

<page=2108>(n) To make the matter more sensible, he brings in Pharaoh whom the dead will meet and marvel at
him, read (<bcv=Isa 14:9>Isa 14:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:24
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:24>Ezekiel 32:24</verse></h3>



There [is] (o) Elam and all her multitude around her grave, all of them slain, fallen by the sword,
who are gone down uncircumcised into the lower parts of the earth, who caused their terror in the
land of the (p) living; yet have they borne their shame with them that go down to the pit.



(o) Meaning the Persians.



(p) Whom in his life all the world feared.
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:26
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:26>Ezekiel 32:26</verse></h3>



There [is] (q) Meshech, Tubal, and all her multitude: her graves [are] around him: all of them
uncircumcised, slain by the sword, though they caused their terror in the land of the living.



(q) That is, the Capadocians and Italians or Spaniards, as Josephus writes.
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:27
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:27>Ezekiel 32:27</verse></h3>



And they shall not lie with the mighty [that are] fallen (r) of the uncircumcised, who are gone down
to the grave with their weapons of war: and they have laid their swords under their heads, but their
iniquities shall be upon their bones, though [they were] the terror of the mighty in the land of the
living.



(r) Who died not by cruel death but by the course of nature, and are honourably buried with their
coat of armour and signs of honour.
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:30
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:30>Ezekiel 32:30</verse></h3>



There [are] the princes of the (s) north, all of them, and all the Zidonians, who are gone down with
the slain; with their terror they are ashamed of their might; and they lie uncircumcised with [them
that are] slain by the sword, and bear their shame with them that go down to the pit.



(s) The kings of Babylon.
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:31
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:31>Ezekiel 32:31</verse></h3>



Pharaoh shall see them, and shall be (t) comforted over all his multitude, [even] Pharaoh and all his
army slain by the sword, saith the Lord GOD.



(t) As the wicked rejoice when they see others partakers of their miseries.
#BCV:Ezekiel 32:32
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 32:32>Ezekiel 32:32</verse></h3>

<page=2109>For I have caused my (u) terror in the land of the living: and he shall be laid in the midst of the
uncircumcised with [them that are] slain with the sword, [even] Pharaoh and all his multitude, saith
the Lord GOD.



(u) I will make the Egyptians afraid of me, as they caused others to fear them.

<h2>Ezekiel 33</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 33:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 33:2>Ezekiel 33:2</verse></h3>

<page=2110>Son of man, speak to the children of thy people, and say to them, When I bring the sword upon a
land, if the people of the land take a man of their territory, and set him for their (a) watchman:



(a) He shows that the people ought to continually have governors and teachers who may have a care
over them, and to warn them ever of the dangers which are at hand.
#BCV:Ezekiel 33:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 33:6>Ezekiel 33:6</verse></h3>



But if the watchman shall see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not
warned; if the sword shall come, and take [any] person from among them, he is taken away in his (b)
iniquity; but his blood will I require at the watchman's hand.



(b) Signifying that the wicked will not escape punishment though the watchman is negligent: but if
the watchman blows the trumpet, and then he will not obey, he will deserve double punishment.
#BCV:Ezekiel 33:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 33:7>Ezekiel 33:7</verse></h3>



So thou, O son of man, I have set thee a watchman to the house of Israel; therefore thou shalt hear
the word at my (c) mouth, and warn them from me.



(c) Which teaches that he that receives not his charge at the Lord's mouth is a spy and not a true
watchman.
#BCV:Ezekiel 33:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 33:8>Ezekiel 33:8</verse></h3>



When I say to the wicked, O wicked [man], thou shalt surely die; if thou dost not speak to warn the
wicked from his way, that wicked [man] shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I (d) require at thy
hand.



(d) The watchman must answer for the blood of all that perish through his negligence.
#BCV:Ezekiel 33:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 33:10>Ezekiel 33:10</verse></h3>



Therefore, O thou son of man, speak to the house of Israel; Thus ye speak, saying, If our
transgressions and our sins [are] upon us, and we pine away in them, (e) how should we then live?



(e) Thus the wicked when they hear God's judgments for their sins, despair of his mercies and
murmur.
#BCV:Ezekiel 33:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 33:11>Ezekiel 33:11</verse></h3>

#BCV:eze 33:11
<h3><verse=eze 33:11>eze 33:11</verse></h3>



that the wicked should turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will
ye die, O house of Israel?



(f) See<bcv=Ezek 18:23> Eze 18:23</bcv>
#BCV:Ezekiel 33:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 33:12>Ezekiel 33:12</verse></h3>



Therefore, thou son of man, say to the children of thy people, The (g) righteousness of the
righteous shall not deliver him in the day of his transgression: as for the wickedness of the wicked,
he shall not fall by it in the day that he turneth from his wickedness; neither shall the righteous be
able to live for his [righteousness] in the day that he sinneth.



(g) Read of this righteousness, (<bcv=Ezek 18:21>Eze 18:21</bcv>,<bcv=Ezek 18:24> Eze 18:24</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 33:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 33:14>Ezekiel 33:14</verse></h3>



Again, when I say to the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; if he shall turn from his sin, and do that
which is lawful and (h) right;



(h) By this he condemns them all of hypocrisy, who pretend to forsake wickedness and yet do not
declare themselves such by their fruits, that is, in obeying God's commandments and by godly life.
#BCV:Ezekiel 33:21
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 33:21>Ezekiel 33:21</verse></h3>



And it came to pass in the twelfth year of our (i) captivity, in the tenth [month], in the fifth [day] of
the month, [that] one that had escaped out of Jerusalem came to me, saying, The city is smitten.



(i) When the prophet was led away captive with Jeconiah.
#BCV:Ezekiel 33:22
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 33:22>Ezekiel 33:22</verse></h3>



Now the (k) hand of the LORD was upon me in the evening, before he that had escaped came; and
had opened my mouth, until he came to me in the morning; and my (l) mouth was opened, and I
was no more dumb.



(k) I was endued with the Spirit of prophecy, (<bcv=Ezek 3:22>Eze 3:22</bcv>).



(l) By which is signified that the ministers of God cannot give them courage and open their mouths,



(<bcv=Ezek 24:27>Eze 24:27</bcv>,<bcv=Ezek 29:21> Eze 29:21</bcv>;<bcv=Eph 6:19> Eph 6:19</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 33:24
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 33:24>Ezekiel 33:24</verse></h3>

<page=2112>Son of man, they that inhabit those wastes of the land of Israel speak, saying, (m) Abraham was one,
and he inherited the land: but we [are] many; the land is given to us for inheritance.



(m) Thus the wicked think themselves more worthy to enjoy God's promises than the saints of God,
to whom they were made: and would bind God to be subject to them, though they would not be
bound to him.
#BCV:Ezekiel 33:25
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 33:25>Ezekiel 33:25</verse></h3>



Wherefore say to them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Ye eat with the (n) blood, and lift up your eyes
toward your idols, and shed blood: and shall ye possess the land?



(n) Contrary to the law, (<bcv=Lev 17:14>Lev 17:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 33:26
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 33:26>Ezekiel 33:26</verse></h3>



Ye stand upon your (o) sword, ye work abomination, and ye defile every one his neighbour's wife:
and shall ye possess the land?



(o) As they that are ready still to shed blood.
#BCV:Ezekiel 33:30
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 33:30>Ezekiel 33:30</verse></h3>



Also, thou son of man, the children of thy people still are (p) talking against thee by the walls and in
the doors of the houses, and speak one to another, every one to his brother, saying, Come, I pray
you, and hear what is the word that cometh forth from the LORD.



(p) In derision.
#BCV:Ezekiel 33:31
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 33:31>Ezekiel 33:31</verse></h3>



And they come to thee as the people come, and they sit before thee [as] my people, and they hear
thy words, but they will not do them: for with their mouth they (q) show much love, [but] their heart
goeth after their covetousness.



(q) This declares that we ought to hear God's word with such zeal and affection that we should in all
points obey it, else we abuse the word to our own condemnation and make of its ministers as
though they were jesters to serve men's foolish fantasies.

<h2>Ezekiel 34</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 34:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 34:2>Ezekiel 34:2</verse></h3>

<page=2113>Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say to them, Thus saith the
Lord GOD to the shepherds; Woe [be] to the (a) shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves!
should not the shepherds feed the flocks?



(a) By the shepherds he means the king, the magistrates, priests and prophets.
#BCV:Ezekiel 34:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 34:3>Ezekiel 34:3</verse></h3>



Ye eat the (b) fat, and ye clothe yourselves with the wool, ye kill them that are fed: [but] ye feed not
the flock.



(b) You seek to enrich yourselves by their conveniences and to spoil their riches and substance.
#BCV:Ezekiel 34:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 34:4>Ezekiel 34:4</verse></h3>



The (c) diseased ye have not strengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have
ye bound up [that which was] broken, neither have ye brought again that which was driven away,
neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them.



(c) He describes the office and duty of a good pastor who ought to love and comfort his flock and
not be cruel toward them.
#BCV:Ezekiel 34:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 34:5>Ezekiel 34:5</verse></h3>



And they were scattered, because [there is] no shepherd: and they (d) became food to all the beasts
of the field, when they were scattered.



(d) For lack of good government and doctrine they perished.
#BCV:Ezekiel 34:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 34:10>Ezekiel 34:10</verse></h3>



Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I [am] against the shepherds; and I will require my flock at their
hand, and cause them to cease from feeding the flock; neither shall the shepherds feed themselves
any more; for I will deliver my flock from (e) their mouth, that they may not be food for them.



(e) By destroying the covetous hirelings and restoring true shepherds of which we have a sign so
often as God sends true preachers, who both by doctrine and life labour to feed his sheep in the
pleasant pastures of his word.
#BCV:Ezekiel 34:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 34:12>Ezekiel 34:12</verse></h3>

#BCV:eze 34:12
<h3><verse=eze 34:12>eze 34:12</verse></h3>



I seek out my sheep, and will deliver them out of all places where they have been scattered in (f) the
cloudy and dark day.



(f) In the day of their affliction and misery: and this promise is to comfort the Church in all dangers.
#BCV:Ezekiel 34:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 34:16>Ezekiel 34:16</verse></h3>



I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up [that
which was] broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the (g)
strong; I will feed them with (h) judgment.



(g) Meaning such as lift up themselves above their brethren and think they have no need to be
governed by me.



(h) That is, by putting difference between the good and the bad, and so give to either as they deserve.
#BCV:Ezekiel 34:18
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 34:18>Ezekiel 34:18</verse></h3>



[Seemeth it] a small thing to you to have eaten up the good (i) pasture, but ye must tread down with
your feet the rest of your pastures? and to have drank of the deep waters, but ye must foul the rest
with your feet?



(i) By good pasture and deep waters is meant the pure word of God and the administration of
justice which they did not distribute to the poor till they had corrupted it.
#BCV:Ezekiel 34:23
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 34:23>Ezekiel 34:23</verse></h3>



And I will set up one shepherd over them, and he shall feed them, [even] my servant (k) David; he
shall feed them, and he shall be their shepherd.



(k) Meaning Christ, of whom David was a figure, See<bcv=Jer 30:9> Jer 30:9</bcv>
#BCV:Ezekiel 34:25
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 34:25>Ezekiel 34:25</verse></h3>



And I will make with them a covenant of peace, and will cause the evil beasts to cease out of the
land: and they shall (l) dwell safely in the wilderness, and sleep in the woods.



(l) This declares that under Christ the flock would be truly delivered from sin and hell, and so be
safely preserved in the Church where they would never perish.
#BCV:Ezekiel 34:27
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 34:27>Ezekiel 34:27</verse></h3>

<page=2115>And the (m) tree of the field shall yield her fruit, and the earth shall yield her increase, and they shall
be safe in their land, and shall know that I [am] the LORD, when I have broken the bars of their
yoke, and delivered them out of the hand of those that subjected them to service.



(m) The fruit of God's grace will appear in great abundance in his Church.
#BCV:Ezekiel 34:29
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 34:29>Ezekiel 34:29</verse></h3>



And I will raise up for them a (n) plant of renown, and they shall be no more consumed with
hunger in the land, neither bear the shame of the nations any more.



(n) That is, the rod that will come out of the root of Jesse, (<bcv=Isa 11:1>Isa 11:1</bcv>).

<h2>Ezekiel 35</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 35:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 35:2>Ezekiel 35:2</verse></h3>

<page=2116>Son of man, set thy face against mount (a) Seir, and prophesy against it,



(a) Where the Idumeans dwelt.
#BCV:Ezekiel 35:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 35:5>Ezekiel 35:5</verse></h3>



Because thou hast had a perpetual hatred, and hast shed [the blood of] the children of Israel by the
force of the sword in the time of their calamity, in the time [that their] (b) iniquity [had] an end:



(b) When by their punishment I called them from their iniquity.
#BCV:Ezekiel 35:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 35:6>Ezekiel 35:6</verse></h3>



Therefore, [as] I live, saith the Lord GOD, I will prepare thee to blood, and blood shall pursue thee:
since thou hast not (c) hated blood, even blood shall pursue thee.



(c) Except you repent your former cruelty.
#BCV:Ezekiel 35:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 35:9>Ezekiel 35:9</verse></h3>



I will make thee perpetual desolations, and thy cities shall not (d) return: and ye shall know that I
[am] the LORD.



(d) That is, to their former estate.
#BCV:Ezekiel 35:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 35:10>Ezekiel 35:10</verse></h3>



Because thou hast said, (e) These two nations and these two countries shall be mine, and we will
possess it; though the LORD was (f) there:



(e) Meaning, Israel and Judah.



(f) And so by fighting against God's people they should go about to put him out of his own
possession.
#BCV:Ezekiel 35:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 35:11>Ezekiel 35:11</verse></h3>



Therefore, [as] I live, saith the Lord GOD, I will even do according to thy (g) anger, and according
to thy envy which thou hast used out of thy hatred against them; and I will make myself known
among (h) them, when I have judged thee.

<page=2117>(g) As you have done cruelly, so will you be cruelly handled.



(h) Showing that when God punishes the enemies, the godly ought to consider that he has a care
over them and so praise his name: and also that the wicked rage as though there were no God, till
they feel his hand to their destruction.

<h2>Ezekiel 36</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 36:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 36:2>Ezekiel 36:2</verse></h3>

<page=2118>Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because the (a) enemy had said against you, Aha, even the ancient (b)
high places are ours in possession:



(a) That is, the Idumean.



(b) That is Jerusalem, which for God's promises was the chief of all the world.
#BCV:Ezekiel 36:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 36:3>Ezekiel 36:3</verse></h3>



Therefore prophesy and say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because they have made [you] desolate, and
swallowed you up on every side, that ye might be a possession to the rest of the nations, and ye are
taken up in the lips of (c) talkers, and [are] an infamy of the people:



(c) You are made a matter of talk and derision to all the world.
#BCV:Ezekiel 36:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 36:5>Ezekiel 36:5</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Surely in the fire of my jealousy have I spoken against the rest
of the nations, and against all Edom, who have (d) appointed my land into their possession with the
joy of all [their] heart, with despiteful minds, to cast it out for a prey.



(d) They appointed with themselves to have it, and therefore came with Nebuchadnezzar against
Jerusalem for this purpose.
#BCV:Ezekiel 36:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 36:6>Ezekiel 36:6</verse></h3>



Prophesy therefore concerning the land of Israel, and say to the mountains, and to the hills, to the
rivers, and to the valleys, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I have spoken in my jealousy and in my
fury, because ye have borne the (e) shame of the nations:



(e) Because you have been a laughing stock to them.
#BCV:Ezekiel 36:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 36:7>Ezekiel 36:7</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; I have (f) lifted up my hand, Surely the nations that [are] about
you, they shall bear their shame.



(f) By making a solemn oath. See<bcv=Ezek 20:5> Eze 20:5</bcv>
#BCV:Ezekiel 36:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 36:8>Ezekiel 36:8</verse></h3>

<page=2119>But ye, O mountains of Israel, ye shall (g) shoot forth your branches, and yield your fruit to my
people of Israel; for they are soon to come.



(g) God declares his mercies and goodness toward his Church, who still preserves his, even when he
destroys his enemies.
#BCV:Ezekiel 36:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 36:11>Ezekiel 36:11</verse></h3>



And I will multiply upon you man and beast; and they shall increase and bring fruit: and I will settle
you according to your old estates, and will do better [to you] than (h) at your beginnings: and ye shall
know that I [am] the LORD.



(h) Which was accomplished under Christ, to whom all these temporal deliverances directed them.
#BCV:Ezekiel 36:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 36:12>Ezekiel 36:12</verse></h3>



Yea, I will cause men to walk (i) upon you, [even] my people Israel; and they shall possess thee, and
thou shalt be their inheritance, and thou shalt no more henceforth bereave them [of men].



(i) That is, on the mountains of Jerusalem.
#BCV:Ezekiel 36:13
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 36:13>Ezekiel 36:13</verse></h3>



Thus saith the Lord GOD; Because they say to you, Thou (k) [land] devourest men, and hast
bereaved thy nations;



(k) This the enemies imputed as the reproach of the land, which God did for the sins of the people
according to his just judgments.
#BCV:Ezekiel 36:21
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 36:21>Ezekiel 36:21</verse></h3>



But I had pity for my holy (l) name, which the house of Israel had profaned among the nations, to
which they went.



(l) And therefore would not permit my Name to be had in contempt, as the heathen would have
reproached me, if I had allowed my Church to perish.
#BCV:Ezekiel 36:22
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 36:22>Ezekiel 36:22</verse></h3>



Therefore say to the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord GOD; I do not [this] for your sakes, O
house of Israel, but for my (m) holy name's sake, which ye have profaned among the nations, to
which ye went.

<page=2120>(m) This excludes from man all dignity and means to deserve anything by, seeing that God refers the
whole to himself and that only for the glory of his holy Name.
#BCV:Ezekiel 36:25
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 36:25>Ezekiel 36:25</verse></h3>



Then will I sprinkle clean (n) water upon you, and ye shall be clean: from all your filthiness, and
from all your idols, will I cleanse you.



(n) That is, his spirit by which he reforms the heart and regenerates his. See<bcv=Isa 44:3> Isa 44:3</bcv>
#BCV:Ezekiel 36:29
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 36:29>Ezekiel 36:29</verse></h3>



I will also save you from all your uncleannesses: and I will call for the (o) grain, and will increase it,
and lay no famine upon you.



(o) Under the abundance of temporal benefits he concludes the spiritual graces.
#BCV:Ezekiel 36:31
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 36:31>Ezekiel 36:31</verse></h3>



Then shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings that [were] not good, and shall (p)
lothe yourselves in your own sight for your iniquities and for your abominations.



(p) You will come to true repentance and think yourselves unworthy to be of the number of God's
creatures, for your ingratitude against him.
#BCV:Ezekiel 36:36
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 36:36>Ezekiel 36:36</verse></h3>



Then the nations that are left around you shall (q) know that I the LORD build the ruined [places,
and] plant that which was desolate: I the LORD have spoken [it], and I will do [it].



(q) He declares that it ought not to be referred to the soil or plentifulness of the earth that any
country is rich and abundant, but only to God's mercies, as his plagues and curses declare, when he
makes it barren.

<h2>Ezekiel 37</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 37:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 37:1>Ezekiel 37:1</verse></h3>

<page=2121>The hand of the LORD was upon me, and carried me out in the spirit of the LORD, and set me
down in the midst of the valley which [was] full of (a) bones,



(a) He shows by a great miracle that God has power and will deliver his people from their captivity,
in as much as he is able to give life to the dead bones and bodies and raise them up again.
#BCV:Ezekiel 37:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 37:9>Ezekiel 37:9</verse></h3>



Then said he to me, Prophesy to the wind, prophesy, son of man, and say to the wind, Thus saith
the Lord GOD; Come from the four (b) winds, O breath, and breathe upon these slain, that they
may live.



(b) Signifying all places where the Israelites were scattered that is, the faithful will be brought to the
same unity of spirit and doctrine wherever they are scattered through the world.
#BCV:Ezekiel 37:13
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 37:13>Ezekiel 37:13</verse></h3>



And ye shall know that I [am] the LORD, (c) when I have opened your graves, O my people, and
brought you out of your graves,



(c) That is, when I have brought you out of those places and towns where you are captives.
#BCV:Ezekiel 37:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 37:16>Ezekiel 37:16</verse></h3>



Moreover, thou son of man, take thee one stick, and write upon it, For Judah, and for the children
of Israel his companions: then take (d) another stick, and write upon it, For Joseph, the stick of
Ephraim, and [for] all the house of Israel his companions:



(d) Which signifies the joining together of the two houses of Israel and Judah.
#BCV:Ezekiel 37:19
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 37:19>Ezekiel 37:19</verse></h3>



Say to them, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Behold, I will take the stick (e) of Joseph, which [is] in the
hand of Ephraim, and the tribes of Israel his fellows, and will put them with him, [even] with the
stick of Judah, and make them one stick, and they shall be one in my hand.



(e) That is, the house of Israel.
#BCV:Ezekiel 37:25
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 37:25>Ezekiel 37:25</verse></h3>

#BCV:eze 37:25
<h3><verse=eze 37:25>eze 37:25</verse></h3>



dwelt; and they shall dwell in it, [even] they, and their children, and their children's children for ever:
and my servant David [shall be] their prince for ever.



(f) Meaning that the elect by Christ will dwell in heaven by Jerusalem, which is meant by the land of
Canaan.

<h2>Ezekiel 38</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 38:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 38:2>Ezekiel 38:2</verse></h3>

<page=2123>Son of man, set thy face against (a) Gog, the land of Magog, the chief prince of Meshech and Tubal,
and prophesy against him,



(a) Who were a people that came from Magog the son of Japheth, (<bcv=Gen 10:2>Gen 10:2</bcv>). Magog also here
signifies a certain country so that by these two countries which had the government of Greece and
Italy he means the principal enemies of the Church, (<bcv=Rev 20:8>Rev 20:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 38:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 38:4>Ezekiel 38:4</verse></h3>



And I will turn thee back, and put hooks into thy jaws, and I will bring thee forth, and all thy army,
horses and horsemen, all of them clothed with all sorts [of armour, even] a great company [with]
bucklers and shields, all of them (b) handling swords:



(b) He shows that the enemy would bend themselves against the Church but it would be to their
own destruction.
#BCV:Ezekiel 38:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 38:5>Ezekiel 38:5</verse></h3>




(c) Persia, Cush, and Libya with them; all of them with shield and helmet:



(c) The Persians, Ethiopians and men of Africa.
#BCV:Ezekiel 38:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 38:6>Ezekiel 38:6</verse></h3>




(d) Gomer, and all his troops; the house of Togarmah of the north quarters, and all his troops: [and]
many people with thee.



(d) Gomer was Japheth's son, and Togarmah the son of Gomer, and are thought to be they that
inhabited Asia Minor.
#BCV:Ezekiel 38:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 38:7>Ezekiel 38:7</verse></h3>



Be thou prepared, and (e) prepare for thyself, thou, and all thy company that are assembled to thee,
and be thou a guard to them.



(e) Signifying that all the people of the world would assemble themselves against the Church and
Christ their head.
#BCV:Ezekiel 38:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 38:10>Ezekiel 38:10</verse></h3>

<page=2124>Thus saith the Lord GOD; It shall also come to pass, [that] at the same time shall things come into
thy mind, and thou shalt think an (f) evil thought:



(f) That is, to molest and destroy the Church.
#BCV:Ezekiel 38:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 38:11>Ezekiel 38:11</verse></h3>



And thou shalt say, I will go up to the land of unwalled villages; (g) I will go to them that are at rest,
that dwell safely, all of them dwelling without walls, and having neither bars nor gates,



(g) Meaning Israel, which had now been destroyed and was not yet built again: declaring by this the
simplicity of the godly, who seek not so much to fortify themselves by outward force, as to depend
on the providence and goodness of God.
#BCV:Ezekiel 38:13
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 38:13>Ezekiel 38:13</verse></h3>



Sheba, and Dedan, and the merchants of Tarshish, with all its young lions, shall say to thee, (h) Art
thou come to take a spoil? hast thou gathered thy company to take a prey? to carry away silver and
gold, to take away cattle and goods, to take a great spoil?



(h) One enemy will envy another because everyone will think to have the spoil of the Church.
#BCV:Ezekiel 38:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 38:14>Ezekiel 38:14</verse></h3>



Therefore, son of man, prophesy and say to Gog, Thus saith the Lord GOD; In that day when my
people of Israel (i) dwelleth safely, shalt thou not know [it]?



(i) Will you not spy your opportunity to come against my Church when they suspect nothing?
#BCV:Ezekiel 38:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 38:16>Ezekiel 38:16</verse></h3>



And thou shalt come against my people of Israel, as a cloud to cover the land; it shall be in the (k)
latter days, and I will bring thee against my land, that the nations may know me, when I (l) shall be
sanctified in thee, O Gog, before their eyes.



(k) Meaning in the last age, and from the coming of Christ to the end of the world.



(l) Signifying that God will be sanctified by maintaining his church, and destroying his enemies, as in



(<bcv=Ezek 36:23>Eze 36:23</bcv>,<bcv=Ezek 37:28> Eze 37:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 38:17
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 38:17>Ezekiel 38:17</verse></h3>



Thus saith the Lord GOD; [Art] thou he of whom I have spoken of old (m) by my servants the
prophets of Israel, who prophesied in those days [many] years that I would bring thee against them?

<page=2125>(m) By this he declares that no affliction can come to the Church of which they have not been
advertised before to teach them to endure all things with more patience when they know that God
has so ordained.
#BCV:Ezekiel 38:20
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 38:20>Ezekiel 38:20</verse></h3>



So that the fishes of the sea, and the fowls of the heaven, and the beasts of the field, and all
creeping animals that creep upon the earth, and all the men that [are] upon the face of the earth,
shall shake at my presence, and the mountains shall be overturned, and the (n) steep places shall fall,
and every wall shall fall to the ground.



(n) All means by which man would think to save himself will fail, the affliction in those days will be
so great, and the enemies destruction will be so terrible.
#BCV:Ezekiel 38:21
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 38:21>Ezekiel 38:21</verse></h3>



And I will call for a sword against him (o) throughout all my mountains, saith the Lord GOD: every
man's sword shall be against his brother.



(o) Against the people of God and Magog.

<h2>Ezekiel 39</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 39:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 39:2>Ezekiel 39:2</verse></h3>

<page=2126>And I will turn thee back, (a) and leave but the sixth part of thee, and will cause thee to come from
the north parts, and will bring thee upon the mountains of Israel:



(a) Or, destroy you with six plagues, as in (<bcv=Ezek 38:22>Eze 38:22</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 39:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 39:4>Ezekiel 39:4</verse></h3>



Thou (b) shalt fall upon the mountains of Israel, thou, and all thy troops, and the people that [are]
with thee: I will give thee to the ravenous birds of every sort, and [to] the beasts of the field to be
devoured.



(b) Meaning that by the virtue of God's word the enemy will be destroyed wherever he assails his
Church.
#BCV:Ezekiel 39:6
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 39:6>Ezekiel 39:6</verse></h3>



And I will send a fire on Magog, and among them that dwell securely in the (c) isles: and they shall
know that I [am] the LORD.



(c) That is, among all nations where the enemies of my people dwell, no matter how separate they
seem.
#BCV:Ezekiel 39:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 39:8>Ezekiel 39:8</verse></h3>



Behold, (d) it is come, and it is done, saith the Lord GOD; this [is] the day of which I have spoken.



(d) That is, this plague is fully determined in my counsel and cannot be changed.
#BCV:Ezekiel 39:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 39:9>Ezekiel 39:9</verse></h3>



And they that dwell in the cities of Israel shall (e) go forth, and shall set on fire and burn the
weapons, both the shields and the bucklers, the bows and the arrows, and the javelins, and the spears,
and they shall burn them with fire seven years:



(e) After this destruction the Church will have great peace and tranquillity and burn all their weapons
because they will no more fear the enemies. This chiefly refers to the accomplishment of Christ's
kingdom when by their head Christ all enemies will be overcome.
#BCV:Ezekiel 39:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 39:11>Ezekiel 39:11</verse></h3>

<page=2127>And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] I will give to Gog (f) a place there of graves in Israel, the
valley of the travellers on the east of the sea: and it shall stop the (g) [noses] of the travellers: and
there shall they bury Gog and all his multitude: and they shall call [it] The valley of Hamongog.



(f) Which declares that the enemies will have a horrible fall.



(g) For the stink of the carcasses.
#BCV:Ezekiel 39:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 39:12>Ezekiel 39:12</verse></h3>




(h) And seven months shall the house of Israel be in burying them, that they may cleanse the land.



(h) Meaning a long time.
#BCV:Ezekiel 39:14
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 39:14>Ezekiel 39:14</verse></h3>



And they shall set apart men for [the] continual task of passing through the (i) land to bury with the
travellers those that remain upon the face of the land, to cleanse it: after the end of seven months
shall they search.



(i) Partly that the holy land should not be polluted and partly for the compassion that the children
of God have even on their enemies.
#BCV:Ezekiel 39:17
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 39:17>Ezekiel 39:17</verse></h3>



And, thou son of man, thus saith the Lord GOD; Speak to every feathered fowl, and to every beast
of the field, Assemble yourselves, and come; (k) gather yourselves on every side to my sacrifice that
I do sacrifice for you, [even] a great sacrifice upon the mountains of Israel, that ye may eat flesh, and
drink blood.



(k) By which he signifies the horrible destruction that would come on the enemies of his Church.
#BCV:Ezekiel 39:23
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 39:23>Ezekiel 39:23</verse></h3>



And the nations shall know that the house of Israel went into captivity for (l) their iniquity: because
they trespassed against me, therefore I hid my face from them, and gave them into the hand of their
enemies: so they all fell by the sword.



(l) The heathen will know that they did not overcome my people by their strength, neither yet by the
weakness of my arm, but that this was for my people's sins.

<h2>Ezekiel 40</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 40:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 40:1>Ezekiel 40:1</verse></h3>

<page=2128>In the five and twentieth year of our captivity, in the (a) beginning of the year, in the tenth [day] of
the month, in the fourteenth year after the city was smitten, in the same day the hand of the LORD
was upon me, and brought me there.



(a) The Jews counted the beginning of the year after two sorts: for their feasts they began to count
in March and for their other affairs in September: so that this is to be understood of September.
#BCV:Ezekiel 40:3
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 40:3>Ezekiel 40:3</verse></h3>



And he brought me there, and, behold, [there was] a (b) man, whose appearance [was] like the
appearance of brass, with a line of flax in his hand, and a measuring reed; and he stood in the gate.



(b) Which was an angel in the form of a man, that came to measure out this building.

<h2>Ezekiel 43</h2>

<page=2129>And [it was] according to the appearance of the vision which I saw, [even] according to the vision
that I saw (a) when I came to destroy the city: and the visions [were] like the vision that I saw by the
river Chebar; and I fell upon my face.



(a) When I prophesied the destruction of the city of the Chaldeans.
#BCV:Ezekiel 43:4
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 43:4>Ezekiel 43:4</verse></h3>



And the (b) glory of the LORD came into the house by the way of the gate whose prospect [is]
toward the east.



(b) Which was departed before, (<bcv=Ezek 10:4>Eze 10:4</bcv>,<bcv=Ezek 12:22> Eze 12:22</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 43:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 43:7>Ezekiel 43:7</verse></h3>



And he said to me, Son of man, the place of my throne, and the place of the soles of my feet,
where I will dwell in the midst of the children of Israel for ever, and my holy name, shall the house
of Israel no more (c) defile, [neither] they, nor their kings, by their harlotry, nor by the carcases of (d)
their kings in their high places.



(c) By their idolatries.



(d) He alludes to Amon and Manasseh, who were buried in their gardens near the Temple and there
had erected monuments to their idols.

<h2>Ezekiel 44</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 44:2
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 44:2>Ezekiel 44:2</verse></h3>

<page=2130>Then said the LORD to me; This gate shall be (a) shut, it shall not be opened, and no man shall
enter in by it; because the LORD, the God of Israel, hath entered in by it, therefore it shall be shut.



(a) Meaning, from the common people, but not from the priests nor the prince, read (<bcv=Ezek 46:8-9>Eze 46:8-9</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 44:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 44:7>Ezekiel 44:7</verse></h3>



In that ye have brought [into my sanctuary] (b) strangers, uncircumcised in heart, and uncircumcised
in flesh, to be in my sanctuary, to pollute it, [even] my house, when ye offer my bread, the fat and
the blood, and they have broken my covenant because of all your abominations.



(b) For they had brought idolaters who were from other countries, to teach them their idolatry, <bcv=Eze 23:40>(Eze 23:40).</bcv>

#BCV:Ezekiel 44:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 44:8>Ezekiel 44:8</verse></h3>



And ye have not kept the (c) charge of my holy things: but ye have set keepers of my charge in my
sanctuary for yourselves.



(c) You have not offered to me according to my Law.
#BCV:Ezekiel 44:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 44:10>Ezekiel 44:10</verse></h3>



And the (d) Levites that have gone away far from me, when Israel went astray, who went astray from
me after their idols; they shall even bear their iniquity.



(d) The Levites who had committed idolatry were put from their dignity and could not be received
into the priests office although they had been of the house of Aaron, but must serve in the inferior
offices as to watch and to keep the doors, read (<bcv=II Ki 23:9>Kg2 23:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 44:15
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 44:15>Ezekiel 44:15</verse></h3>



But the priests the Levites, the sons of Zadok, that (e) kept the charge of my sanctuary when the
children of Israel went astray from me, they shall come near to me to minister to me, and they shall
stand before me to offer to me the fat and the blood, saith the Lord GOD:



(e) Who observed the law of God and did not fall to idolatry.
#BCV:Ezekiel 44:20
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 44:20>Ezekiel 44:20</verse></h3>

<page=2131>Neither shall they (f) shave their heads, nor allow their locks to grow long; they shall only cut [the
hair of] their heads.



(f) As did the infidels and heathen.
#BCV:Ezekiel 44:25
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 44:25>Ezekiel 44:25</verse></h3>



And they shall come near no dead person to defile themselves: but for father, or for mother, or for
son, or for daughter, for brother, or for sister that hath had no husband, they may (g) defile
themselves.



(g) They may be at their burial which was a defiling.

<h2>Ezekiel 45</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 45:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 45:1>Ezekiel 45:1</verse></h3>

<page=2132>Moreover, when ye shall divide by lot the land for inheritance, ye shall offer an oblation to the
LORD, an (a) holy portion of the land: the length [shall be] the length of five and twenty thousand
[reeds], and the breadth [shall be] ten thousand. This [shall be] holy in all its borders on every side.



(a) Of all the land of Israel the Lord only requires this portion for the temple and for the priests for
the city and for the prince.
#BCV:Ezekiel 45:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 45:9>Ezekiel 45:9</verse></h3>



Thus saith the Lord GOD; Let it (b) suffice you, O princes of Israel: remove violence and spoil, and
execute judgment and justice, take away your exactions from my people, saith the Lord GOD.



(b) The prophet shows that the heads must be first reformed before any good order can be
established among the people.
#BCV:Ezekiel 45:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 45:10>Ezekiel 45:10</verse></h3>



Ye shall have just balances, and a just (c) ephah, and a just bath.



(c) Ephah and Bath are the same quantity save that an Ephah is a dry measure and a Bath liquid,



(<bcv=Lev 5:11>Lev 5:11</bcv>;<bcv=1Ki 5:11> Kg1 5:11).</bcv>

#BCV:Ezekiel 45:12
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 45:12>Ezekiel 45:12</verse></h3>



And the shekel [shall be] twenty gerahs: twenty shekels, (d) five and twenty shekels, fifteen shekels,
shall be your maneh.



(d) That is, sixty shekels make a weight called Mina, for he joins these three parts to a Mina.
#BCV:Ezekiel 45:18
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 45:18>Ezekiel 45:18</verse></h3>



Thus saith the Lord GOD; In the first [month], in the first [day] of the (e) month, thou shalt take a
young bull without blemish, and cleanse the sanctuary:



(e) Which was Nisan containing part of March and part of April.
#BCV:Ezekiel 45:24
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 45:24>Ezekiel 45:24</verse></h3>



And he shall prepare a meat offering of an ephah for a bull, and an ephah for a ram, and an (f) hin
of oil for an ephah.

<page=2133>(f) Read <bcv=Exo 29:40>(Exo 29:40).</bcv>

<h2>Ezekiel 46</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 46:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 46:5>Ezekiel 46:5</verse></h3>

<page=2134>And the meat offering [shall be] an ephah for a ram, and the meat offering for the lambs (a) as he
shall be able to give, and an hin of oil to an ephah.



(a) That is, as much as he will.
#BCV:Ezekiel 46:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 46:7>Ezekiel 46:7</verse></h3>



And he shall prepare a meat offering, an ephah for a bull, and an ephah for a ram, and for the lambs



(b) according as his hand shall be able, and an hin of oil to an ephah.



(b) Meaning, as he will think good.
#BCV:Ezekiel 46:17
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 46:17>Ezekiel 46:17</verse></h3>



But if he shall give a gift of his inheritance to one of his servants, then it shall be his to the (c) year
of liberty; afterward it shall return to the prince: but his inheritance shall be to his sons for them.



(c) Which was at the Jubile, (<bcv=Lev 25:9>Lev 25:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 46:18
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 46:18>Ezekiel 46:18</verse></h3>



Moreover the prince shall not (d) take of the people's inheritance by oppression, to thrust them out
of their possession; [but] he shall give his sons inheritance out of his own possession: that my
people be not dispossessed every man from his possession.



(d) But be content with that portion that God has assigned him, as in (<bcv=Ezek 45:8>Eze 45:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Ezekiel 46:20
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 46:20>Ezekiel 46:20</verse></h3>



Then said he to me, This [is] the place where the priests shall boil the trespass offering and the sin
offering, where they shall bake the meat offering; that they bear [them] not out into the outer court,



(e) to sanctify the people.



(e) That the people should not have to do with those things which belong to the Lord, and think it
lawful for them to eat them.

<h2>Ezekiel 47</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 47:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 47:1>Ezekiel 47:1</verse></h3>

<page=2135>Afterward he brought me again to the door of the house; and, behold, (a) waters issued out from
under the threshold of the house eastward: for the front of the house [stood toward] the east, and
the waters came down from under from the right side of the house, at the south [side] of the altar.



(a) By which are meant the spiritual graces that would be given to the Church under the kingdom of
Christ.
#BCV:Ezekiel 47:5
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 47:5>Ezekiel 47:5</verse></h3>



Afterward he measured a thousand; [and it was] a river that I could not pass over: for the waters had
risen, waters to swim in, a (b) river that could not be passed over.



(b) Signifying that the graces of God would never decrease, but ever abound in his Church.
#BCV:Ezekiel 47:7
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 47:7>Ezekiel 47:7</verse></h3>



Now when I had returned, behold, at the bank of the river [were] very many (c) trees on the one
side and on the other.



(c) Meaning, the multitude of them that would be refreshed by the spiritual waters.
#BCV:Ezekiel 47:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 47:8>Ezekiel 47:8</verse></h3>



Then said he to me, These waters issue out toward the east country, and go down into the desert,
and go into the (d) sea: [which being] brought forth into the sea, the waters shall be healed.



(d) Showing that the abundance of these graces would be so great, that all the world would be full
of it, which is here meant by the Persian sea, or Genezareth, and the sea called Mediterranean, (Zac
14:8).
#BCV:Ezekiel 47:9
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 47:9>Ezekiel 47:9</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, [that] every thing that liveth, which moveth, wherever the rivers shall
come, shall live: and there shall be a very great multitude of fish, because these waters shall come
there: for they shall be (e) healed; and every thing shall live where the river cometh.



(e) The waters which by nature are salt and unwholesome will be made sweet and comfortable.
#BCV:Ezekiel 47:10
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 47:10>Ezekiel 47:10</verse></h3>

<page=2136>And it shall come to pass, [that] the (f) fishermen shall stand upon it from Engedi even to (g)
Eneglaim; they shall be a [place] to spread forth nets; their fish shall be according to their kinds, as
the fish of (h) the great sea, very many.



(f) Signifying that when God bestows his mercies in such abundance the ministers will by their
preaching win many.



(g) Which were cities at the corners of the salt or dead sea.



(h) They will be here of all sorts and in as great abundance as in the great ocean where they are bred.
#BCV:Ezekiel 47:11
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 47:11>Ezekiel 47:11</verse></h3>



But (i) its miry places and its marshes shall not be healed; they shall be given to salt.



(i) That is, the wicked and reprobate.
#BCV:Ezekiel 47:15
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 47:15>Ezekiel 47:15</verse></h3>



And this [shall be] the border (k) of the land toward the north side, from the great sea, the way of
Hethlon, as men go to Zedad;



(k) By the land of promise he signifies the spiritual land of which this was a figure.
#BCV:Ezekiel 47:22
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 47:22>Ezekiel 47:22</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, [that] ye shall divide it by lot for an inheritance to you, and to the
strangers that sojourn among you, which shall beget children among you: and they shall be to you as
born in the country among the children of Israel; (l) they shall have inheritance with you among the
tribes of Israel.



(l) Meaning that in this spiritual kingdom there would be no difference between Jew nor Gentile but
that all would be partakers of this inheritance in their head Christ.

<h2>Ezekiel 48</h2>

#BCV:Ezekiel 48:1
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 48:1>Ezekiel 48:1</verse></h3>

<page=2137>Now these [are] the names of the (a) tribes. From the north end to the border of the way of
Hethlon, as one goeth to Hamath, Hazarenan, the border of Damascus northward, to the border of
Hamath; for these are his sides east [and] west; a [portion for] Dan.



(a) The tribes after they entered into the land under Joshua divided the land somewhat otherwise
then is here set forth by this vision.
#BCV:Ezekiel 48:8
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 48:8>Ezekiel 48:8</verse></h3>



And by the border of Judah, from the east side to the west side, (b) shall be the offering which ye
shall offer of five and twenty thousand [reeds in] breadth, and [in] length as one of the [other] parts,
from the east side to the west side: and the sanctuary shall be in the midst of it.



(b) That is, the portion of the ground which they will separate and appoint to the Lord which will be
divided into three parts for the priests for the prince and for the city.
#BCV:Ezekiel 48:16
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 48:16>Ezekiel 48:16</verse></h3>



And these [shall be] the measures of it; the north side



(c) four thousand and five hundred, and the south side four thousand and five hundred, and on the
east side four thousand and five hundred, and the west side four thousand and five hundred.



(c) Meaning that it would be square.
#BCV:Ezekiel 48:20
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 48:20>Ezekiel 48:20</verse></h3>



All the oblation [shall be] five and twenty thousand by (d) five and twenty thousand: ye shall offer
the holy oblation foursquare, with the possession of the city.



(d) Every way it will be five and twenty thousand.
#BCV:Ezekiel 48:22
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 48:22>Ezekiel 48:22</verse></h3>



Moreover from the possession of the Levites, and from the possession of the city, [being] in the
midst [of that] which is the prince's, between the border (e) of Judah and the border of Benjamin,
shall be for the prince.



(e) So that Judah was on the north side of the princes and Levites portions and Benjamin on the
south side.
#BCV:Ezekiel 48:28
<h3><verse=Ezekiel 48:28>Ezekiel 48:28</verse></h3>

<page=2138>And by the border of Gad, at the south side southward, the (f) border shall be even from (g) Tamar
[to] the waters of strife [in] Kadesh, [and] to the (h) river toward the great sea.



(f) Which is here taken for Idumea.



(g) Which was Jericho the city of palm trees.



(h) Meaning, the Nile that runs into the sea called the Mediterranean.

<h1>Daniel</h1>


<h2>Daniel 1</h2>

#BCV:Daniel 1:1
<h3><verse=Daniel 1:1>Daniel 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2139>In the (a) third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah came Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon
unto Jerusalem, and besieged it.



The Argument - The great providence of God, and his singular mercy towards his Church are set
forth here most vividly, who never leaves his own destitute, but now in their greatest miseries and
afflictions gives them Prophets, such as Ezekiel and Daniel, whom he adorned with special graces of
his Holy Spirit. And Daniel above all others had most special revelations of such things as would
come to the Church, even from the time that they were in captivity, to the last end of the world, and
to the general resurrection, as of the four Monarchies and empires of all the world, that is, of the
Babylonians, Persians, Grecians, and Romans. Also of the certain number of the times even until
Christ, when all ceremonies and sacrifices would cease, because he would be the accomplishment of
them: moreover he shows Christ's office and the reason of his death, which was by his sacrifice to
take away sins, and to bring everlasting life. And as from the beginning God always exercised his
people under the cross, so he teaches here, that after Christ is offered, he will still leave this exercise
to his Church, until the dead rise again, and Christ gathers his own into his kingdom in the heavens.



(a) Read (<bcv=II Ki 24:1>Kg2 24:1</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 25:1> Jer 25:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Daniel 1:2
<h3><verse=Daniel 1:2>Daniel 1:2</verse></h3>



And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of
God: which he carried into the land of (b) Shinar to the house of his god; and he brought the
vessels into the treasure house of his god.



(b) Which was a plain by Babylon, where the temple of their great god was, and is here taken for
Babylon.
#BCV:Daniel 1:3
<h3><verse=Daniel 1:3>Daniel 1:3</verse></h3>



And the king spake unto (c) Ashpenaz the master of his (d) eunuchs, that he should bring [certain]
of the children of Israel, and of the (e) king's seed, and of the princes;



(c) Who was as master of the guards.



(d) He calls them "eunuchs" whom the King nourished and brought up to be rulers of other
countries afterwards.

<page=2140>(e) His purpose was to keep them as hostages, and so that he might show himself victorious, and
also by their good entreaty and learning of his religion, they might favour him rather than the Jews,
and so to be able to serve him as governors in their land. Moreover by this means the Jews might be
better kept in subjection, fearing otherwise to bring hurt upon these noble men.
#BCV:Daniel 1:4
<h3><verse=Daniel 1:4>Daniel 1:4</verse></h3>



Children in whom [was] no blemish, but well (f) favoured, and skilful in all wisdom, and cunning in
knowledge, and understanding science, and such as [had] ability in them to stand in the king's palace,
and whom they might teach the (g) learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans.



(f) The King required three things: that they should be of noble birth, that they should be intelligent
and learned, and that they should be of a strong and handsome nature, so that they might do him
better service. This he did for his own benefit, therefore it is not to praise his liberality: yet in this he
is worthy of praise, that he esteemed learning, and knew that it was a necessary means to govern by.



(g) That they might forget their own religion and country fashions to serve him the better to his
purpose: yet it is not to be thought that Daniel learned any knowledge that was not godly. In all
points he refused the abuse of things and superstition, insomuch that he would not eat the meat
which the King appointed him, but was content to learn the knowledge of natural things.
#BCV:Daniel 1:5
<h3><verse=Daniel 1:5>Daniel 1:5</verse></h3>



And the king appointed them a (h) daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he
drank: so nourishing them (i) three years, that at the end thereof they might stand (k) before the king.



(h) That by their good entertainment they might learn to forget the mediocrity of their own people.



(i) With the intent that in this time they might learn both the manners of the Chaldeans, and also
their language.



(k) As well as to serve at the table as in other offices.
#BCV:Daniel 1:7
<h3><verse=Daniel 1:7>Daniel 1:7</verse></h3>



Unto whom the prince of the eunuchs (l) gave names: for he gave unto Daniel [the name] of
Belteshazzar; and to Hananiah, of Shadrach; and to Mishael, of Meshach; and to Azariah, of
Abednego.



(l) That they might altogether forget their religion: for the Jews gave their children names which
might always put them in remembrance of some point of religion. Therefore this was a great
temptation and a sign of servitude, which they were not able to resist.
#BCV:Daniel 1:8
<h3><verse=Daniel 1:8>Daniel 1:8</verse></h3>

<page=2141>But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not (m) defile himself with the portion of the king's
meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he
might not defile himself.



(m) Not that he thought any religion to be in the meat or drink (for afterwards he did eat), but
because the king should not entice him by this sweet poison to forget his religion and accustomed
sobriety, and that in his meat and drink he might daily remember of what people he was from. And
Daniel brings this in to show how God from the beginning assisted him with his Spirit, and at length
called him to be a Prophet.
#BCV:Daniel 1:10
<h3><verse=Daniel 1:10>Daniel 1:10</verse></h3>



And the prince of the eunuchs said unto Daniel, (n) I fear my lord the king, who hath appointed
your meat and your drink: for why should he see your faces worse liking than the children which [are]
of your sort? then shall ye make [me] endanger my head to the king.



(n) He supposed they did this for their religion, which was contrary to the Babylonians, and
therefore in this he represents those who are of no religion: for neither would he condemn theirs,
nor maintain his own.
#BCV:Daniel 1:12
<h3><verse=Daniel 1:12>Daniel 1:12</verse></h3>



Prove thy servants, I beseech thee, (o) ten days; and let them give us (p) pulse to eat, and water to
drink.



(o) Meaning that within this space he might have the test, and that no man would be able to know
about it: and thus he spoke, being moved by the Spirit of God.



(p) Not that it was a thing abominable to eat dainty meats, and to drink wine, as both before and
after they did, but if they would have by this been won to the King, and had refused their own
religion, that meat and drink would have been accursed.
#BCV:Daniel 1:15
<h3><verse=Daniel 1:15>Daniel 1:15</verse></h3>



And at the end of ten days their (q) countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the
children which did eat the portion of the king's meat.



(q) This bare feeding and that also of Moses, when he fled from the court of Egypt, declares that
we must live in such sobriety as God calls us to, seeing that he will make it more profitable to us
than all dainties: for his blessing alone suffices.
#BCV:Daniel 1:17
<h3><verse=Daniel 1:17>Daniel 1:17</verse></h3>

<page=2142>As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning (r) and wisdom: and
Daniel had understanding in all (s) visions and dreams.



(r) Meaning in the liberal sciences, and natural knowledge, and not in the magical areas which are
forbidden; (<bcv=Deu 18:11>Deu 18:11</bcv>).



(s) So that he alone was a Prophet, and none of the others: for by dreams and visions God appeared
to his Prophets; (<bcv=Num 12:6>Num 12:6</bcv>)
#BCV:Daniel 1:18
<h3><verse=Daniel 1:18>Daniel 1:18</verse></h3>



Now at the (t) end of the days that the king had said he should bring them in, then the prince of the
eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar.



(t) Of the three years mentioned above as in (<bcv=Dan 1:5>Dan 1:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Daniel 1:21
<h3><verse=Daniel 1:21>Daniel 1:21</verse></h3>



And Daniel continued [even] unto (u) the first year of king Cyrus.



(u) That is, he was esteemed in Babylon as a Prophet as long as that commonwealth stood.

<h2>Daniel 2</h2>

#BCV:Daniel 2:1
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:1>Daniel 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2143>And in the (a) second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar Nebuchadnezzar dreamed (b) dreams,
wherewith his spirit was (c) troubled, and (d) his sleep brake from him.



(a) The father and the son were both called by this name, so that this is meant of the son, when he
reigned alone: for he also reigned in a way with his father.



(b) Not that he had many dreams, but because many matters were contained in this dream.



(c) Because it was so rare and strange a dream, that he had had nothing similar.



(d) Or, "his sleep was upon him", that is, that he was so heavy with sleep, that he began to sleep
again.
#BCV:Daniel 2:2
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:2>Daniel 2:2</verse></h3>



Then the king commanded to call the magicians, and the astrologers, and the sorcerers, and the (e)
Chaldeans, for to shew the king his dreams. So they came and stood before the king.



(e) For all these astrologers and sorcerers called themselves by this name of honour, as though all
the wisdom and knowledge of the country depended upon them, and that all other countries were
void of such wisdom and knowledge.
#BCV:Daniel 2:4
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:4>Daniel 2:4</verse></h3>



Then spake the Chaldeans to the king in (f) Syriack, O king, live for ever: tell thy servants the dream,
and we will shew the interpretation.



(f) That is, in the Syrian language, which differed not much from the Chaldeans, except it seemed to
be more eloquent, and therefore the learned used to speak it, as the Jewish writers do to this day.
#BCV:Daniel 2:5
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:5>Daniel 2:5</verse></h3>



The king answered and said to the Chaldeans, The thing is gone from me: if ye will not make known
unto me the dream, with the interpretation thereof, ye (g) shall be cut in pieces, and your houses
shall be made a dunghill.



(g) This is a just reward of their arrogance (who boasted of themselves that they had knowledge of
all things), that they should be proved fools, and that to their perpetual shame and confusion.
#BCV:Daniel 2:7
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:7>Daniel 2:7</verse></h3>

<page=2144>They answered again and said, Let the king tell (h) his servants the dream, and we will shew the
interpretation of it.



(h) In this appears their ignorance, that despite their braggings, yet they were not able to tell the
dream, unless he told them of it. And if he did tell them, they would pretend knowledge where
there was but mere ignorance, and so as deluders of the people they were worthy to die.
#BCV:Daniel 2:13
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:13>Daniel 2:13</verse></h3>



And the decree went forth that the wise [men] should be slain; and they (i) sought Daniel and his
fellows to be slain.



(i) Which declares that God would not have his servant united in the company of these sorcerers
and astrologers, whose arts were wicked, and therefore justly ought to die, even though the king did
it upon a rage and not from zeal.
#BCV:Daniel 2:22
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:22>Daniel 2:22</verse></h3>



He revealeth the deep and secret things: he knoweth what [is] in the darkness, and the (k) light
dwelleth with him.



(k) He shows that man has neither wisdom nor knowledge, but very dark blindness and ignorance
of himself: for it comes only from God that man understands anything.
#BCV:Daniel 2:23
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:23>Daniel 2:23</verse></h3>



I thank thee, and praise thee, O thou God of my (l) fathers, who hast given me wisdom and (m)
might, and hast made known unto me now what we desired of thee: for thou hast [now] made
known unto us the king's matter.



(l) To whom you made your promise, and who lived in fear of you: by which he excludes all other
gods.



(m) Meaning power to interpret it.
#BCV:Daniel 2:24
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:24>Daniel 2:24</verse></h3>



Therefore Daniel went in unto Arioch, whom the king had ordained to destroy the wise [men] of
Babylon: he went and said thus unto him; Destroy not (n) the wise [men] of Babylon: bring me in
before the king, and I will shew unto the king the interpretation.



(n) By which appears that many were slain, as in verse thirteen, and the rest at Daniel's offer were
preserved on condition. Not that Daniel favoured their wicked profession, but that he had respect to
<page=2145>fairness, because the King proceeded according to his wicked affection, and not considering if their
profession was morally correct or not.
#BCV:Daniel 2:28
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:28>Daniel 2:28</verse></h3>



But there is a God in (o) heaven that revealeth secrets, and maketh known to the king
Nebuchadnezzar what shall be in the latter days. Thy dream, and the visions of thy head upon thy
bed, are these;



(o) He affirms that man by reason and craft is not able to attain to the cause of God's secrets, but
the understanding only of them must come from God: by which he smites the king with a certain
fear and reverence of God, that he might be the more able to receive the high mysteries that would
be revealed.
#BCV:Daniel 2:30
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:30>Daniel 2:30</verse></h3>



But as (p) for me, this secret is not revealed to me for [any] wisdom that I have more than any living,
but for [their] sakes that shall make known the interpretation to the king, and that thou mightest
know the thoughts of thy heart.



(p) Because he had said that God alone must reveal the signification of this dream, the King might
have asked why Daniel undertook to interpret it: and therefore he shows that he was but God's
minister, and had no gifts but those which God had given him to set forth his glory.
#BCV:Daniel 2:32
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:32>Daniel 2:32</verse></h3>



This image's head [was] of fine (q) gold, his breast and his arms of silver, his belly and his thighs of
brass,



(q) By gold, silver, brass, and iron are meant the Chaldean, Persian, Macedonian, and Roman
kingdoms, which would successively rule all the world until Christ (who is here called the stone)
himself comes, and destroys the last. And this was to assure the Jews that their affliction would not
end with the empire of the Chaldeans, but that they should patiently await the coming of the
Messiah, who would be at the end of this fourth monarchy.
#BCV:Daniel 2:38
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:38>Daniel 2:38</verse></h3>



And wheresoever the children of men dwell, the beasts of the field and the fowls of the heaven
hath he given into thine hand, and hath made thee ruler over them all. Thou [art] (r) this head of
gold.



(r) Daniel leaves out the kingdom of the Assyrians, which was before the Babylonian, both because
it was not a monarchy and general empire, and also because he would declare the things that were to
<page=2146>come, until the coming of Christ, for the comfort of the elect among these wonderful alterations.
And he calls the Babylonian kingdom the golden head, because in respect of the other three, it was
the best, and yet it was of itself wicked and cruel.
#BCV:Daniel 2:39
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:39>Daniel 2:39</verse></h3>



And after thee shall arise another kingdom (s) inferior to thee, and another (t) third kingdom of
brass, which shall bear rule over all the earth.



(s) Meaning, the Persians who were not inferior in dignity, power, or riches, but were worse with
regard to ambition, cruelty, and every type of vice, showing that the world would grow worse and
worse, until it was restored by Christ.



(t) That is, those of the Macedonians will be of brass, not alluding to the hardness of it, but to the
vileness with regard to silver.
#BCV:Daniel 2:40
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:40>Daniel 2:40</verse></h3>



And the fourth kingdom shall be strong as iron: forasmuch as iron breaketh in pieces and subdueth
all [things]: and as iron that breaketh all these, shall it break in (u) pieces and bruise.



(u) That is, the Roman empire will subdue all these others, which after Alexander were divided into
the Macedonians, Grecians, Syrians, and Egyptians.
#BCV:Daniel 2:41
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:41>Daniel 2:41</verse></h3>



And whereas thou sawest the feet and toes, part of potters' clay, and part of iron, the kingdom shall
be (x) divided; but there shall be in it of the strength of the iron, forasmuch as thou sawest the iron
mixed with miry clay.



(x) They will have civil wars, and continual discords among themselves.
#BCV:Daniel 2:43
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:43>Daniel 2:43</verse></h3>



And whereas thou sawest iron mixed with miry clay, they shall mingle themselves with (y) the seed
of men: but they shall not cleave one to another, even as iron is not mixed with clay.



(y) They will be marriages and affinities think to make themselves strong: yet they will never by
united in heart.
#BCV:Daniel 2:44
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:44>Daniel 2:44</verse></h3>

<page=2147>And in the days of these kings shall the God of heaven set up a kingdom, which (z) shall never be
destroyed: and the kingdom shall not be left to other people, [but] it shall break in pieces and
consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand for ever.



(z) His purpose is to show that all the kingdoms of the world are transitory, and that the kingdom
of Christ alone will remain forever.
#BCV:Daniel 2:45
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:45>Daniel 2:45</verse></h3>



Forasmuch as thou sawest that the (a) stone was cut out of the mountain without hands, and that it
brake in pieces the iron, the brass, the clay, the silver, and the gold; the great God hath made known
to the king what shall come to pass hereafter: and the dream [is] certain, and the interpretation
thereof sure.



(a) Meaning Christ, who was sent by God, and not set up by man, whose kingdom at the beginning
would be small and without beauty to man's judgment, but would at length grow and fill the whole
earth, which he calls a great mountain, as in (<bcv=Dan 2:35>Dan 2:35</bcv>). And this kingdom, which is not only referred
to the person of Christ, but also to the whole body of his Church, and to every member of it, will
be eternal: for the Spirit that is in them is eternal life; (<bcv=Rom 8:10>Rom 8:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Daniel 2:46
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:46>Daniel 2:46</verse></h3>



Then the king Nebuchadnezzar fell upon his face, and (b) worshipped Daniel, and commanded that
they should offer an oblation and sweet odours unto him.



(b) Though this humbling of the king seemed to deserve commendation, yet because he united
God's honour with the Prophets, it is to be reproved, and Daniel would have erred, if he allowed it:
but it is to his credit that Daniel admonished him of his fault, and did not allow it.
#BCV:Daniel 2:47
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:47>Daniel 2:47</verse></h3>



The king answered unto Daniel, and said, Of a truth [it is], that your (c) God [is] a God of gods,
and a Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets, seeing thou couldest reveal this secret.



(c) This confession was but a sudden motion, as it was also in Pharaoh, (<bcv=Exo 9:28>Exo 9:28</bcv>), but his heart was
not touched, as appeared soon afterwards.
#BCV:Daniel 2:48
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:48>Daniel 2:48</verse></h3>



Then the king made Daniel a great man, and gave him many great (d) gifts, and made him ruler over
the whole province of Babylon, and chief of the governors over all the wise [men] of Babylon.

<page=2148>(d) Not that the Prophet was desirous of gifts or honour, but because by this means he might relieve
his poor brethren, who were grievously oppressed in this their captivity, and he also received them,
lest he should offend this cruel king, who willingly gave them.
#BCV:Daniel 2:49
<h3><verse=Daniel 2:49>Daniel 2:49</verse></h3>



Then Daniel (e) requested of the king, and he set Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, over the
affairs of the province of Babylon: but Daniel [sat] in the (f) gate of the king.



(e) He did not do this for their personal profit, but that the whole Church, which was then there in
affliction, might have some release and ease by this benefit.



(f) Meaning that either he was a judge, or that he had the whole authority, so than no one could be
admitted to the king's presence but by him.

<h2>Daniel 3</h2>

#BCV:Daniel 3:1
<h3><verse=Daniel 3:1>Daniel 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2149>Nebuchadnezzar the king made (a) an image of gold, whose height [was] threescore cubits, [and] the
breadth thereof six cubits: he set it up in the plain of Dura, in the province of Babylon.



(a) Under pretence of religion, and holiness in making an image to his idol Bel, he sought his own
ambition and vain glory: and this declares that he was not touched with the true fear of God before,
but that he confessed him on a sudden motion, as the wicked when they are overcome with the
greatness of his works. The Greek interpreters write that this was done eighteen years after the
dream, and as may appear, the King feared lest the Jews by their religion should have altered the
state of his commonwealth: therefore he meant to bring all to one type of religion, and so rather
sought his own peace than God's glory.
#BCV:Daniel 3:2
<h3><verse=Daniel 3:2>Daniel 3:2</verse></h3>



Then Nebuchadnezzar the king sent to gather together the princes, the governors, and the captains,
the judges, the treasurers, the counsellors, the sheriffs, and all the rulers of the provinces, to come to
the (b) dedication of the image which Nebuchadnezzar the (c) king had set up.



(b) Showing that the idol is not known for an idol as long as he is with workmen: but when the
ceremonies and customs are recited and used, and the consent of the people is there, then they think
they have made a god out of a block.



(c) This was sufficient with the wicked at all times to approve their religion, if the king's authority
were alleged for the establishment of it, not considering in the meantime what God's word allowed.
#BCV:Daniel 3:4
<h3><verse=Daniel 3:4>Daniel 3:4</verse></h3>



Then an herald cried aloud, To you it is commanded, O people, (d) nations, and languages,



(d) These are the two dangerous weapons, which Satan used to fight against the children of God,
the consent of the multitude, and the cruelty of the punishment. For even though some feared God,
yet the multitude who consented to the wickedness persuaded them: and here the King required not
an inward consent, but an outward gesture, that the Jews might by little and little learn to forget their
true religion.
#BCV:Daniel 3:12
<h3><verse=Daniel 3:12>Daniel 3:12</verse></h3>



There are certain Jews whom thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon, (e) Shadrach,
Meshach, and Abednego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor
worship the golden image which thou hast set up.

<page=2150>(e) It seems that they named not Daniel, because he was greatly in the king's favour, thinking if these
three had been destroyed, they might have had better occasion to accuse Daniel. And this declares
that this policy of erecting this image was invented by the malicious flatterers who sought nothing
but the destruction of the Jews, whom they accused of rebellion and ingratitude.
#BCV:Daniel 3:15
<h3><verse=Daniel 3:15>Daniel 3:15</verse></h3>




(f) Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut,
psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the image which I have
made; [well]: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery
furnace; and who [is] that God that shall deliver you out of my hands?

(f) Signifying that he would receive them to grace if they would now obey his decree.

#BCV:Daniel 3:16
<h3><verse=Daniel 3:16>Daniel 3:16</verse></h3>

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we (g) [are]
not careful to answer thee in this matter.

(g) For they would have done injury to God, if they would have doubted in this holy cause, and
therefore they say that they are resolved to die for God's cause.

#BCV:Daniel 3:17
<h3><verse=Daniel 3:17>Daniel 3:17</verse></h3>

If it be [so], our God whom we serve is (h) able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he
will deliver [us] out of thine hand, O king.

(h) They have two points as their foundation: first on the power and providence of God over them,
and second on their cause, which was God's glory, and the testifying of his true religion with their
blood. And so they make open confession, that they will not so much as outwardly consent to
idolatry.

#BCV:Daniel 3:19
<h3><verse=Daniel 3:19>Daniel 3:19</verse></h3>

Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach,
Meshach, and Abednego: [therefore] he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace
one seven (i) times more than it was wont to be heated.

(i) This declares that the more that tyrants rage, and the more crafty they show themselves in
inventing strange and cruel punishments, the more is God glorified by his servants, to whom he
gives patience and constancy to abide the cruelty of their punishment. For either he delivers them
from death, or else for this life gives them better.

#BCV:Daniel 3:25
<h3><verse=Daniel 3:25>Daniel 3:25</verse></h3>

#BCV:dan 3:25
<h3><verse=dan 3:25>dan 3:25</verse></h3>

hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the (k) Son of God.

(k) For the angels were called the sons of God because of their excellency. Therefore the king called
this angel whom God sent to comfort his own in these great torments, the son of God.
#BCV:Daniel 3:26
<h3><verse=Daniel 3:26>Daniel 3:26</verse></h3>

Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, [and] spake, and said,
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come
[hither]. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, (l) came forth of the midst of the fire.

(l) This commends their obedience to God, that they would not because of any fear depart out of
this furnace until the appointed time, as Noah remained in the ark, until the Lord called him forth.

#BCV:Daniel 3:28
<h3><verse=Daniel 3:28>Daniel 3:28</verse></h3>

[Then] Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, (m) Blessed [be] the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and
Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed
the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their
own God.

(m) He was moved by the greatness of the miracle to praise God, but his heart was not touched.
And here we see that miracles are not sufficient to convert men to God, but that doctrine most
chiefly be joined with them, without which there can be no faith.
#BCV:Daniel 3:29
<h3><verse=Daniel 3:29>Daniel 3:29</verse></h3>



Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak (n) any thing amiss
against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall
be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort.



(n) If this heathen king moved by God's Spirit would punish blasphemy, and made a law and set a
punishment for such transgressors, much more ought all they that profess religion make sure that
such impiety does not happen, lest according as their knowledge and responsibility is greater, so they
suffer double punishment.

<h2>Daniel 4</h2>

#BCV:Daniel 4:1
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:1>Daniel 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=2152>Nebuchadnezzar the king, unto all people, nations, and languages, that dwell in all the (o) earth;
Peace be multiplied unto you.



(o) Meaning, as far as his dominion extended.
#BCV:Daniel 4:3
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:3>Daniel 4:3</verse></h3>



How great [are] his signs! and how mighty [are] his wonders! (p) his kingdom [is] an everlasting
kingdom, and his dominion [is] from generation to generation.



(p) See<bcv=Dan 2:44> Dan 2:44</bcv>
#BCV:Daniel 4:4
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:4>Daniel 4:4</verse></h3>



I Nebuchadnezzar was at (a) rest in mine house, and flourishing in my palace:



(a) There was no trouble that might cause me to dream, and therefore it came only from God.
#BCV:Daniel 4:5
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:5>Daniel 4:5</verse></h3>



I saw a (b) dream which made me afraid, and the thoughts upon my bed and the visions of my head
troubled me.



(b) This was another dream besides that which he saw of the four empires, for Daniel both declared
what that dream was, and what it meant, and here he expounds this dream.
#BCV:Daniel 4:7
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:7>Daniel 4:7</verse></h3>



Then came in the magicians, the astrologers, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers: and I told the
dream before them; but (c) they did not make known unto me the interpretation thereof.



(c) In that he sent abroad to others, whose ignorance in times past he had experienced, and left
Daniel who was ever ready at hand, it declares the nature of the ungodly, who never seek for the
servants of God unless they absolutely have to, and then they flatter to a great extent.
#BCV:Daniel 4:8
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:8>Daniel 4:8</verse></h3>



But at the last Daniel came in before me, whose name [was] (d) Belteshazzar, according to the name
of my god, and in whom [is] the spirit of the holy gods: and before him I told the dream, [saying],

<page=2153>(d) This no doubt was a great grief to Daniel not only to have his name changed, but to be called by
the name of a vile idol, which thing Nebuchadnezzar did to make him forget the true religion of
God.
#BCV:Daniel 4:9
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:9>Daniel 4:9</verse></h3>



O Belteshazzar, (e) master of the magicians, because I know that the spirit of the holy gods [is] in
thee, and no secret troubleth thee, tell me the visions of my dream that I have seen, and the
interpretation thereof.



(e) Which also was a great grief to the Prophet, to be numbered among the sorcerers and men
whose practices were wicked and contrary to God's word.
#BCV:Daniel 4:10
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:10>Daniel 4:10</verse></h3>



Thus [were] the visions of mine head in my bed; I saw, and behold a (f) tree in the midst of the
earth, and the height thereof [was] great.



(f) By the tree is signified the dignity of a king whom God ordains to be a defence for every type of
man, and whose state is profitable for mankind.
#BCV:Daniel 4:13
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:13>Daniel 4:13</verse></h3>



I saw in the visions of my head upon my bed, and, behold, a (g) watcher and an holy one came
down from heaven;



(g) Meaning the angel of God, who neither eats nor sleeps, but is always ready to do God's will, and
is not infected with man's corruption, but is always holy. And in that he commands to cut down this
tree, he knew that it would not be cut down by man, but by God.
#BCV:Daniel 4:16
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:16>Daniel 4:16</verse></h3>




(h) Let his heart be changed from man's, and let a beast's heart be given unto him; and let seven
times pass over him.



(h) By this he means that Nebuchadnezzar would not only for a time lose his kingdom, but be like a
beast.
#BCV:Daniel 4:17
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:17>Daniel 4:17</verse></h3>




(i) This matter [is] by the decree of the watchers, and the demand by the word of the holy ones: to
the intent that the living may know that the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it
to whomsoever he will, and setteth up over it the basest of men.

<page=2154>(i) God has decreed this judgment and the whole army of heaven has as it were joined in being a
part of it, just as they also desire the execution of his decree against all those that lift up themselves
against God.
#BCV:Daniel 4:19
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:19>Daniel 4:19</verse></h3>



Then Daniel, whose name [was] Belteshazzar, was (k) astonied for one hour, and his thoughts
troubled him. The king spake, and said, Belteshazzar, let not the dream, or the interpretation thereof,
trouble thee. Belteshazzar answered and said, My lord, the dream [be] to them that hate thee, and the
interpretation thereof to thine enemies.



(k) He was troubled because of the great judgment of God, which he saw ordained against the king.
And so the Prophets on the one hand used to make known God's judgments for the zeal they had
for his glory, and on the other hand had compassion upon man. And they also considered that they
would be subject to God's judgments, if he did not regard them with pity.
#BCV:Daniel 4:23
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:23>Daniel 4:23</verse></h3>



And whereas the king saw a watcher and an holy one coming down from heaven, and saying, Hew
the tree down, and destroy it; yet leave the stump of the roots thereof in the earth, even with a band
of iron and brass, in the tender grass of the field; and let it be wet with the dew of heaven, and [let]
his portion [be] with the beasts of the field, (l) till seven times pass over him;



(l) By which he means a long space, as seven years. Some interpret seven months, and others seven
weeks, but it seems he means seven years.
#BCV:Daniel 4:25
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:25>Daniel 4:25</verse></h3>



That they shall drive thee from men, and thy dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field, and they
shall make thee to eat grass as (m) oxen, and they shall wet thee with the dew of heaven, and seven
times shall pass over thee, till thou know that (n) the most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and
giveth it to whomsoever he will.



(m) Not that his shape or form was changed into a beast, but that he was either stricken mad, and so
avoided man's company, or was cast out because of his tyranny, and so wandered among the beasts,
and ate herbs and grass.



(n) Daniel shows the reason why God punished him in this way.
#BCV:Daniel 4:27
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:27>Daniel 4:27</verse></h3>

<page=2155>Wherefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable unto thee, and (o) break off thy sins by
righteousness, and thine iniquities by shewing mercy to the poor; if it may be a (p) lengthening of
thy tranquillity.



(o) Cease from provoking God to anger any longer by your sins, that he may reduce the severity of
his punishment, if you show by your upright life that you have true faith and repentance.



(p) Allow the errors of your former life to be made up for.
#BCV:Daniel 4:29
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:29>Daniel 4:29</verse></h3>



At the end of twelve (q) months he walked in the palace of the kingdom of Babylon.



(q) After Daniel had declared this vision: and this pride of his declares that it is not in man to
convert to God, unless his Spirit moves him, seeing that these terrible threatenings could not move
him to repent.
#BCV:Daniel 4:34
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:34>Daniel 4:34</verse></h3>



And at the end of the (r) days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine
understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the most High, and I praised and honoured him that
liveth for ever, whose dominion [is] an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom [is] from generation
to generation:



(r) When the term of these seven years was accomplished.
#BCV:Daniel 4:35
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:35>Daniel 4:35</verse></h3>



And all the inhabitants of the earth [are] reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his (s) will in
the army of heaven, and [among] the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say
unto him, What doest thou?



(s) He confesses God's will to be the rule of all justice, and a most perfect law, by which he governs
both man and angels and devils, so that none ought to murmur or ask a reason for his doings, but
only to stand content with them and give him the glory.
#BCV:Daniel 4:36
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:36>Daniel 4:36</verse></h3>



At the same time my reason returned unto me; and for the glory of my kingdom, mine honour and
brightness returned unto me; and my counsellors and (t) my lords sought unto me; and I was
established in my kingdom, and excellent majesty was added unto me.



(t) By whom it seems that he had been put from his kingdom before.
#BCV:Daniel 4:37
<h3><verse=Daniel 4:37>Daniel 4:37</verse></h3>

#BCV:dan 4:37
<h3><verse=dan 4:37>dan 4:37</verse></h3>



truth, and his ways judgment: and those that walk in pride he is able to abase.



(u) He not only praises God for his deliverance, but also confesses his fault, so that God alone may
have the glory, and man the shame, and so that God may be exalted and man cast down.

<h2>Daniel 5</h2>

#BCV:Daniel 5:1
<h3><verse=Daniel 5:1>Daniel 5:1</verse></h3>


<page=2157>(a) Belshazzar the king made a great feast to a thousand of his lords, and drank wine (b) before the
thousand.



(a) Daniel recites this history of King Belshazzar, Evilmerodach's son, to show God's judgments
against the wicked for the deliverance of his Church, and how the prophecy of Jeremiah was true,
that they would be delivered after seventy years.



(b) The kings of the east part then used to commonly sit alone, and disdained that any should sit in
their company: and now to show his power, and how little he thought of his enemy, which then
besieged Babylon, made a solemn banquet, and used excess in their company, which is meant here
by drinking wine: thus the wicked are very lax in morals and negligent, when their destruction is at
hand.
#BCV:Daniel 5:2
<h3><verse=Daniel 5:2>Daniel 5:2</verse></h3>



Belshazzar, whiles he tasted the wine, commanded to bring the golden and silver vessels which his (c)
father Nebuchadnezzar had taken out of the temple which [was] in Jerusalem; that the king, and his
princes, his wives, and his concubines, might drink therein.



(c) Meaning his grandfather.
#BCV:Daniel 5:4
<h3><verse=Daniel 5:4>Daniel 5:4</verse></h3>



They drank wine, and praised the (d) gods of gold, and of silver, of brass, of iron, of wood, and of
stone.



(d) In contempt of the true God they praise their idols, not that they thought that the gold or silver
were gods, but that there was a certain strength and power in them to do them good, which is also
the opinion of all idolaters.
#BCV:Daniel 5:5
<h3><verse=Daniel 5:5>Daniel 5:5</verse></h3>



In the same hour came forth fingers of a man's hand, and wrote over (e) against the candlestick
upon the plaister of the wall of the king's palace: and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote.



(e) That it might the better be seen.
#BCV:Daniel 5:6
<h3><verse=Daniel 5:6>Daniel 5:6</verse></h3>

<page=2158>Then the king's countenance was changed, and his thoughts troubled him, so that the joints of his
loins were loosed, and his (f) knees smote one against another.



(f) So he that before condemned God, was moved by this sight to tremble for fear of God's
judgments.
#BCV:Daniel 5:7
<h3><verse=Daniel 5:7>Daniel 5:7</verse></h3>



The king cried aloud to bring in (g) the astrologers, the Chaldeans, and the soothsayers. [And] the
king spake, and said to the wise [men] of Babylon, Whosoever shall read this writing, and shew me
the interpretation thereof, shall be clothed with scarlet, and [have] a chain of gold about his neck,
and shall be the third ruler in the kingdom.



(g) Thus the wicked in their troubles seek many means, which draw them from God, because they
do not seek for him who is the only comfort in all afflictions.
#BCV:Daniel 5:10
<h3><verse=Daniel 5:10>Daniel 5:10</verse></h3>



[Now] the (h) queen, by reason of the words of the king and his lords, came into the banquet house:
[and] the queen spake and said, O king, live for ever: let not thy thoughts trouble thee, nor let thy
countenance be changed:



(h) That is, his grandmother, Nebuchadnezzar's wife, who because of her age was not at the feast
before, but came there when she heard of this strange news.
#BCV:Daniel 5:11
<h3><verse=Daniel 5:11>Daniel 5:11</verse></h3>



There is a man in thy kingdom, in whom [is] the spirit of the holy gods; and in the days of thy
father light and understanding and wisdom, like the wisdom of the gods, was found in him; whom
the king Nebuchadnezzar thy father, the king, [I say], thy father, made master of the (i) magicians,
astrologers, Chaldeans, [and] soothsayers;



(i) Read (<bcv=Dan 4:6>Dan 4:6</bcv>); and this declares that both this name was odious to him, and also he did not use
these vile practises, because he was not among them when all were called.
#BCV:Daniel 5:14
<h3><verse=Daniel 5:14>Daniel 5:14</verse></h3>



I have even heard of thee, that (k) the spirit of the gods [is] in thee, and [that] light and
understanding and excellent wisdom is found in thee.



(k) For the idolaters thought that the angels had power as God, and therefore held them in the same
estimation that they held God, thinking that the spirit of prophecy and understanding came from
them.
#BCV:Daniel 5:18
<h3><verse=Daniel 5:18>Daniel 5:18</verse></h3>

<page=2159>O thou king, the most high God gave (l) Nebuchadnezzar thy father a kingdom, and majesty, and
glory, and honour:



(l) Before he read the writing, he declares to the king his great ingratitude toward God, who could
not be moved to give him the glory, considering God's wonderful work toward his grandfather, and
so shows that he does not sin from ignorance but from malice.
#BCV:Daniel 5:24
<h3><verse=Daniel 5:24>Daniel 5:24</verse></h3>




(m) Then was the part of the hand sent from him; and this writing was written.



(m) After God had for such a long time deferred his anger, and patiently waited for your repentance.
#BCV:Daniel 5:25
<h3><verse=Daniel 5:25>Daniel 5:25</verse></h3>



And this [is] the writing that was written, (n) MENE, MENE, TEKEL, UPHARSIN.



(n) This word is written twice because of the certainty of the thing, showing that God had most
surely decided: it signifies also that God has appointed a term for all kingdoms, and that a miserable
end will come on all that raise themselves against him.
#BCV:Daniel 5:31
<h3><verse=Daniel 5:31>Daniel 5:31</verse></h3>



And Darius (o) the Median took the kingdom, [being] about threescore and two years old.



(o) Cyrus his son-in-law gave him this title of honour, even though Cyrus in effect had the
dominion.

<h2>Daniel 6</h2>

#BCV:Daniel 6:1
<h3><verse=Daniel 6:1>Daniel 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=2160>It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom (a) an hundred and twenty princes, which should be over
the whole kingdom;



(a) Read (<bcv=Esth 1:1>Est 1:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Daniel 6:3
<h3><verse=Daniel 6:3>Daniel 6:3</verse></h3>



Then this Daniel (b) was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit [was]
in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm.



(b) This heathen king preferred Daniel a stranger to all his nobles and those he was familiar with,
because the graces of God were more excellent in him than in others.
#BCV:Daniel 6:4
<h3><verse=Daniel 6:4>Daniel 6:4</verse></h3>



Then the presidents and princes (c) sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom;
but they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he [was] faithful, neither was there any
error or fault found in him.



(c) Thus the wicked cannot abide the graces of God in others, but seek by every occasion to deface
them: therefore against such assaults there is no better remedy than to walk upright in the fear of
God, and to have a good conscience.
#BCV:Daniel 6:9
<h3><verse=Daniel 6:9>Daniel 6:9</verse></h3>



Wherefore king Darius (d) signed the writing and the decree.



(d) In this is condemned the wickedness of the king, who would be set up as a god, and did not care
what wicked laws he approved for the maintenance of it.
#BCV:Daniel 6:10
<h3><verse=Daniel 6:10>Daniel 6:10</verse></h3>



Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his (e) windows
being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and
prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.



(e) Because he would not by his silence show that he consented to this wicked decree, he set open
his windows toward Jerusalem when he prayed: both to stir up himself with the remembrance of
God's promises to his people, when they should pray toward that temple, and also that others might
<page=2161>see that he would neither consent in heart nor deed for these few days to anything that was contrary
to God's glory.

#BCV:Daniel 6:15
<h3><verse=Daniel 6:15>Daniel 6:15</verse></h3>

Then these men assembled unto the king, and said unto the king, Know, O king, that the law of the
Medes and Persians [is], That no decree nor statute which the king establisheth may be (f) changed.

(f) Thus the wicked maintain evil laws by constancy and authority, which is often either weakness, or
stubbornness, and the innocent as a result perish by them: and these governors neither ought to fear,
nor be ashamed to break such laws.

#BCV:Daniel 6:20
<h3><verse=Daniel 6:20>Daniel 6:20</verse></h3>

And when he came to the den, he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel: [and] the king spake
and said to Daniel, O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually,

(g) able to deliver thee from the lions?

(g) This declares that Darius was not touched with the true knowledge of God, because he doubted
of his power.

#BCV:Daniel 6:22
<h3><verse=Daniel 6:22>Daniel 6:22</verse></h3>

My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch
as before him (h) innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done (i) no hurt.

(h) My just cause and uprightness in this thing in which I was charged, is approved by God.

(i) For he disobeyed the kings' wicked commandment in order to obey God, and so he did no injury
to the king, who ought to command nothing by which God would be dishonoured.

#BCV:Daniel 6:23
<h3><verse=Daniel 6:23>Daniel 6:23</verse></h3>

Then was the king exceeding glad for him, and commanded that they should take Daniel up out of
the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no manner of hurt was found upon him,
because he (k) believed in his God.

(k) Because he committed himself wholly to God whose cause he defended, he was assured that
nothing but good could come to him: and in this we see the power of faith, as in (<bcv=Heb 11:33>Heb 11:33</bcv>).

#BCV:Daniel 6:24
<h3><verse=Daniel 6:24>Daniel 6:24</verse></h3>

<page=2162>And the king commanded, and they brought those men which had accused Daniel, and they (l) cast
[them] into the den of lions, them, their children, and their wives; and the lions had the mastery of
them, and brake all their bones in pieces or ever they came at the bottom of the den.

(l) This is a terrible example against all the wicked who do against their conscience make cruel laws
to destroy the children of God, and also admonishes princes how to punish such when their
wickedness is come to light: though not in every point, or with similar circumstances, but yet to
execute true justice upon them.

#BCV:Daniel 6:26
<h3><verse=Daniel 6:26>Daniel 6:26</verse></h3>

I make a decree, That in every dominion of my kingdom men tremble and fear (m) before the God
of Daniel: for he [is] the (n) living God, and stedfast for ever, and his kingdom [that] which shall not
be destroyed, and his dominion [shall be even] unto the end.



(m) This does not prove that Darius worshipped God properly, or was converted: for then he would
have destroyed all superstition and idolatry, and not only given God the chief place, but also have set
him up, and caused him to be honoured according to his word. But this was a specific confession of
God's power, unto which he was compelled by this wonderful miracle.



(n) Who not only has life in himself, but is the only fountain of life, and quickens all things, so that
without him there is no life.

<h2>Daniel 7</h2>

#BCV:Daniel 7:1
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:1>Daniel 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=2163>In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon Daniel had a dream and visions of his head upon his
bed: (a) then he wrote the dream, [and] told the sum of the matters.



(a) Whereas the people of Israel looked for a continual peace, after the seventy years which Jeremiah
had declared, he shows that this rest will not be a deliverance from all troubles, but a beginning. And
therefore he encourages them to look for a continual affliction until the Messiah is uttered and
revealed, by whom they would have a spiritual deliverance, and all the promises would be fulfilled.
And they would have a certain experience of this in the destruction of the Babylonian kingdom.
#BCV:Daniel 7:2
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:2>Daniel 7:2</verse></h3>



Daniel spake and said, I saw in my vision by night, and, behold, the four winds of the heaven strove
upon (b) the great sea.



(b) Which signified that there wold be horrible troubles and afflictions in the world in all corners of
the world, and at various times.
#BCV:Daniel 7:4
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:4>Daniel 7:4</verse></h3>



The first [was] like a (c) lion, and had eagle's wings: I beheld till the wings thereof were plucked, and
it was lifted up from the earth, and made stand upon the feet as a man, and a man's heart was given
to it.



(c) Meaning the Assyrian and Chaldean empire, which was most strong and fierce in power, and
most soon to come to their authority, as though they had wings to fly: yet their wings were pulled
off by the Persians, and they went on their feet, and were made like other men, which is meant here
by man's heart.
#BCV:Daniel 7:5
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:5>Daniel 7:5</verse></h3>



And behold another beast, a second, like to a (d) bear, and it raised up itself on (e) one side, and [it
had] three ribs in the (f) mouth of it between the teeth of it: (g) and they said thus unto it, Arise,
devour much flesh.



(d) Meaning the Persians who were barbarous and cruel.



(e) They were small in the beginning, and were shut up in the mountains, and had no strength.



(f) That is, destroyed many kingdoms and whose hunger could not be satisfied.

<page=2164>(g) That is, the angels by God's commandment, who by this means punished the ingratitude of the
world.
#BCV:Daniel 7:6
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:6>Daniel 7:6</verse></h3>



After this I beheld, and lo another, like a (h) leopard, which had upon the back of it (i) four wings
of a fowl; the beast had also four heads; and (k) dominion was given to it.



(h) Meaning Alexander the king of Macedonia.



(i) That is, his four chief captains, which had the empire among them after his death. Selencus had
Asia the great, Antigonus the less, Cassander and after him Antipater was king of Macedonia, and
Ptolemeus had Egypt.



(k) It was not of himself nor of his own power that he gained all these countries: for his army
contained only thirty thousand men, and he overcame in one battle Darius, who had one million,
when he was so heavy with sleep that his eyes were hardly open, as the stories report: therefore this
power was given to him from God.
#BCV:Daniel 7:7
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:7>Daniel 7:7</verse></h3>



After this I saw in the night visions, and behold a (l) fourth beast, dreadful and terrible, and strong
exceedingly; and it had great (m) iron teeth: it devoured and brake in pieces, and stamped (n) the
residue with the feet of it: and it [was] diverse from all the beasts that [were] before it; and it had (o)
ten horns.



(l) That is, the Roman empire which was a monster, and could not be compared to any beast,
because there was no beast that was even comparable.



(m) Signifying the tyranny and greediness of the Romans.



(n) That which the Romans could not quietly enjoy in other countries, they would give it to other
kings and rulers, so that whenever they wanted to, they might take it again: which liberality is here
called the stamping of the rest under the feet.



(o) That is, various and different provinces which were governed by the deputies and proconsuls:
and each one of these might be compared to a king.
#BCV:Daniel 7:8
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:8>Daniel 7:8</verse></h3>



I considered the horns, and, behold, there came up among them another little (p) horn, before
whom there were (q) three of the first horns plucked up by the roots: and, behold, in this horn
[were] (r) eyes like the eyes of man, and a mouth speaking great things.

<page=2165>(p) Which is meant of Julius Caesar, Augustus, Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius, and Nero, etc., who were
as kings in effect, but because they could not rule, except by the consent of the senate, their power
is compared to a little horn. For Muhammad did not come from the Roman Empire, and the pope
has no vocation of government: therefore this cannot be applied to them, and also in this prophecy
the Prophet's purpose is chiefly to comfort the Jews until the revelation of Christ. Some take it for
the whole body of antichrist.



(q) Meaning a certain portion of the ten horns: that is, a part from the whole estate was taken away.
For Augustus took from the senate the liberty of choosing the deputies to send into the provinces,
and took the governing of certain countries to himself.



(r) These Roman emperors at the first used a certain humanity and gentleness, and were content that
others, as the consuls, and senate, should bear the names of dignity, so that they might have the
profit. And therefore in election and counsels they would behave themselves according as did other
senators: yet against their enemies and those that would resist them, they were fierce and cruel,
which is here meant by the proud mouth.
#BCV:Daniel 7:9
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:9>Daniel 7:9</verse></h3>



I beheld till the (s) thrones were cast down, and the (t) Ancient of days did sit, whose garment [was]
white as snow, and the hair of his head like the pure wool: his throne [was like] the fiery flame, [and]
his wheels [as] burning fire.



(s) Meaning, the places where God and his angels would come to judge these monarchies, which
judgment would begin at the first coming of Christ.



(t) That is, God who was before all times, and is here described in a way such that man's nature is
able to comprehend some portion of his glory.
#BCV:Daniel 7:10
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:10>Daniel 7:10</verse></h3>



A fiery stream issued and came forth from before him: thousand thousands ministered unto him,
and ten thousand (u) times ten thousand stood before him: the judgment was set, and the (x) books
were opened.



(u) That is, an infinite number of angels, who were ready to execute his commandment.



(x) This is meant of the first coming of Christ, when the will of God was plainly revealed by his
Gospel.
#BCV:Daniel 7:11
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:11>Daniel 7:11</verse></h3>



I beheld then (y) because of the voice of the great words which the horn spake: I beheld [even] till
the beast was slain, and his body destroyed, and given to the burning flame.

<page=2166>(y) Meaning that he was astonished when he saw these emperors in such dignity and pride, so
suddenly destroyed at the coming of Christ, when this fourth monarchy was subject to men of other
nations.
#BCV:Daniel 7:12
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:12>Daniel 7:12</verse></h3>



As (z) concerning the rest of the beasts, they had their dominion taken away: yet their lives were
prolonged for a season and time.



(z) As the three former monarchies had an end at the time that God appointed, even though they
flourished for a time, so will this fourth have an end, and they that patiently wait for God's
appointment, will enjoy the promises.
#BCV:Daniel 7:13
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:13>Daniel 7:13</verse></h3>



I saw in the night visions, and, behold, (a) [one] like the Son of man came with the clouds of heaven,
and (b) came to the Ancient of days, and they brought him near before him.



(a) Which is meant of Christ, who had not yet taken upon him man's nature, neither was he yet the
son of David according to the flesh, as he was afterward: but he appeared then in a figure, and that
in the clouds, that is, being separated from the common sort of men by manifest signs of his
divinity.



(b) That is, when he ascended into the heavens, and his divine majesty appeared, and all power was
given to him, in respect that he was our mediator.
#BCV:Daniel 7:14
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:14>Daniel 7:14</verse></h3>



And there was given him (c) dominion, and glory, and a kingdom, that all people, nations, and
languages, should serve him: his dominion [is] an everlasting dominion, which shall not pass away,
and his kingdom [that] which shall not be destroyed.



(c) This is meant of the beginning of Christ's kingdom, when God the Father gave unto him all
dominion, as the the Mediator, with the intent that he would continually govern his Church which is
here on earth, until the time that he brought them to eternal life.
#BCV:Daniel 7:15
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:15>Daniel 7:15</verse></h3>



I Daniel was (d) grieved in my spirit in the midst of [my] body, and the visions of my head troubled
me.




(d) Because of the strangeness of the vision.
#BCV:Daniel 7:16
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:16>Daniel 7:16</verse></h3>

#BCV:dan 7:16
<h3><verse=dan 7:16>dan 7:16</verse></h3>



and made me know the interpretation of the things.



(e) Meaning one of the angels, as in See<bcv=Dan 7:10> Dan 7:10</bcv>
#BCV:Daniel 7:18
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:18>Daniel 7:18</verse></h3>



But the saints of the (f) most High shall take the (g) kingdom, and possess the kingdom for ever,
even for ever and ever.



(f) That is, of the most high things, because God has chosen them out of this world, that they
should look up to the heavens, upon which all their hope depends.



(g) Because Abraham was appointed heir of all the world, (<bcv=Rom 4:13>Rom 4:13</bcv>), and in him all the faithful,
therefore the kingdom of him is theirs by right, which these four beasts or tyrants would invade, and
usurp until the world were restored by Christ. And this was to strengthen and encourage those that
were in troubles, that their afflictions would eventually have an end.
#BCV:Daniel 7:19
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:19>Daniel 7:19</verse></h3>



Then I would know the truth of the fourth beast, which was (h) diverse from all the others,
exceeding dreadful, whose teeth [were of] iron, and his nails [of] brass; [which] devoured, brake in
pieces, and stamped the (i) residue with his feet;



(h) For the other three monarchies were governed by a king, and the Roman empire by consuls: the
Romans changed their governors yearly, and the other monarchies retained them for term of life:
also the Romans were the strongest of all the others, and were never at peace among themselves.



(i) Read (<bcv=Dan 7:7>Dan 7:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Daniel 7:20
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:20>Daniel 7:20</verse></h3>



And of the ten horns that [were] in his head, and [of] the other which came up, and before whom
three fell; even [of] that horn that had eyes, and a mouth that spake very great things, whose (k) look
[was] more stout than his fellows.



(k) This is meant of the fourth beast, which was more terrible than the others.
#BCV:Daniel 7:21
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:21>Daniel 7:21</verse></h3>



I beheld, and the same (l) horn made war with the saints, and prevailed against them;



(l) Meaning the Roman emperors, who were most cruel against the Church of God, both of the
Jews and of the Gentiles.
#BCV:Daniel 7:22
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:22>Daniel 7:22</verse></h3>

<page=2168>Until (m) the Ancient of days came, and judgment was given to the saints of the most High; and the
time came that the saints possessed the kingdom.



(m) Until God showed his power in the person of Christ, and by the preaching of the Gospel gave
unto his own some rest, and so obtained a famous name in the world, and were called the Church of
God, or the kingdom of God.
#BCV:Daniel 7:24
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:24>Daniel 7:24</verse></h3>



And the ten horns out of this kingdom [are] ten kings [that] shall arise: and another shall rise after
them; and he shall be diverse from the first, and he shall subdue (n) three kings.



(n) See<bcv=Dan 7:8> Dan 7:8</bcv>
#BCV:Daniel 7:25
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:25>Daniel 7:25</verse></h3>



And he shall speak [great] words against (o) the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most
High, and think to (p) change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a (q) time
and times and the dividing of time.



(o) That is, will make wicked decrees and proclamations against God's word, and send throughout all
their dominion, to destroy all that did profess it.



(p) These emperors will not consider that they have their power from God, but think it is in their
own power to change God's laws and man's, and as it were the order of nature, as appears by
Octavius, Tiberius, Calligula, Nero, Domitianus, etc.



(q) God will allow them to rage in this way against his saints for a long time, the time and times, but
at length he will soften these troubles, and shorten the time for his elect's sake, (<bcv=Mat 24:22>Mat 24:22</bcv>), which is
here meant by the dividing of time.
#BCV:Daniel 7:26
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:26>Daniel 7:26</verse></h3>



But the (r) judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy [it]
unto the end.



(r) God by his power will restore things that were out of order, and destroy this little horn in such a
way that it will never rise up again.
#BCV:Daniel 7:27
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:27>Daniel 7:27</verse></h3>

<page=2169>And the (s) kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall
be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom [is] an everlasting kingdom,
and all (t) dominions shall serve and obey him.



(s) He shows why the beast would be destroyed, that is, so that his Church might have rest and
quietness, which though they do not fully enjoy here, yet they have it in hope, and by the preaching
of the Gospel enjoy the beginning of it, which is meant by these words, "under the whole heaven".
And therefore he speaks here of the beginning of Christ's kingdom in this world, which kingdom
the faithful have by the participation that they have with Christ their head.



(t) That is, some of every type that rule.
#BCV:Daniel 7:28
<h3><verse=Daniel 7:28>Daniel 7:28</verse></h3>



Hitherto [is] the end of the matter. As for me Daniel, my (u) cogitations much troubled me, and my
countenance changed in me: but I kept the matter in my heart.



(u) Even though he had many motions in his heart which moved him to and fro to seek out this
matter curiously, yet he was content with that which God revealed, and kept it in memory, and wrote
it for the use of the Church.

<h2>Daniel 8</h2>

#BCV:Daniel 8:1
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:1>Daniel 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=2170>In the third year of the reign of king Belshazzar a vision appeared unto me, [even unto] me Daniel,



(a) after that which appeared unto me at the first.



(a) After the general vision, he comes to certain particular visions with regard to the destruction of
the monarchy of the Persians, and Macedonians: for the ruin of the Babylonians was at hand, and
also he had sufficiently spoken of it.
#BCV:Daniel 8:2
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:2>Daniel 8:2</verse></h3>



And I saw in a vision; and it came to pass, when I saw, that I [was] at Shushan [in] the palace, which
[is] in the province (b) of Elam; and I saw in a vision, and I was by the river of Ulai.



(b) That is, of Persia.
#BCV:Daniel 8:3
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:3>Daniel 8:3</verse></h3>



Then I lifted up mine eyes, and saw, and, behold, there stood before the river a (c) ram which had
[two] horns: and the [two] horns [were] high; but one [was] (d) higher than the other, and the higher
came up last.



(c) Which represented the kingdom of the Persians and Medes, which were united together.



(d) Meaning Cyrus, who after grew greater in power than Darius his uncle and father-in-law.
#BCV:Daniel 8:4
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:4>Daniel 8:4</verse></h3>



I saw the ram pushing westward, and northward, and southward; so that no (e) beasts might stand
before him, neither [was there any] that could deliver out of his hand; but he did according to his
will, and became great.



(e) That is, no kings or nations.
#BCV:Daniel 8:5
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:5>Daniel 8:5</verse></h3>



And as I was considering, behold, (f) an he goat came from the west on the face of the whole earth,
and touched not the ground: and the goat [had] a notable (g) horn between his eyes.



(f) Meaning Alexander that came from Greece with great speed and warlike undertaking.



(g) Even though he came in the name of all Greece, yet he bore the title and dignity of the general
captain, so that the strength was attributed to him, which is meant by this horn.
#BCV:Daniel 8:7
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:7>Daniel 8:7</verse></h3>

<page=2171>And I saw him come close unto the ram, and he was moved with choler against him, and (h) smote
the ram, and brake his two horns: and there was no power in the ram to stand before him, but he
cast him down to the ground, and stamped upon him: and there was none that could deliver the ram
out of his hand.



(h) Alexander overcame Darius in two different battles, and so had the two kingdoms of the Medes
and Persians.
#BCV:Daniel 8:8
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:8>Daniel 8:8</verse></h3>



Therefore the he goat waxed very great: and when he was strong, the great (i) horn was broken; and
for it came up four (k) notable ones toward the four winds of heaven.



(i) Alexander's great power was broken: for when he had overcome all the East, he thought to return
towards Greece to subdue those that had rebelled, and so died along the way.



(k) That is, who were famous: for almost in the space of fifteen years there were fifteen different
successors before this monarchy was divided to these four, of which Cassander had Macedonia,
Seleucus had Syria, Antigonus had Asia the less, and Ptolemeus had Egypt.
#BCV:Daniel 8:9
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:9>Daniel 8:9</verse></h3>



And out of one of them came forth a (l) little horn, which waxed exceeding great, toward the (m)
south, and toward the (n) east, and toward the (o) pleasant [land].



(l) Which was Antiochus Epiphanes, who was of a servile and flattering nature, and also there were
others between him and the kingdom: and therefore he is here called the little horn, because neither
princely conditions, nor any other thing was in him, why he should obtain this kingdom.



(m) That is, towards Egypt.



(n) By which he means Ptolemais.



(o) That is, Judea.
#BCV:Daniel 8:10
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:10>Daniel 8:10</verse></h3>



And it waxed great, [even] to the (p) host of heaven; and it cast down [some] of the host and of the
stars to the ground, and stamped upon them.



(p) Antiochus raged against the elect of God, and tread his precious stars underfoot, who are so
called because they are separated from the world.
#BCV:Daniel 8:11
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:11>Daniel 8:11</verse></h3>

<page=2172>Yea, he magnified [himself] even to the (q) prince of the host, and by him the (r) daily [sacrifice] was
taken away, and the place of his sanctuary was cast down.



(q) That is, God, who governs and maintains his Church.



(r) He laboured to abolish all religion, and therefore cast God's service out of his temple, which
God had chosen as a little corner from all the rest of the world to have his name there truly called
upon.
#BCV:Daniel 8:12
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:12>Daniel 8:12</verse></h3>



And (s) an host was given [him] against the daily [sacrifice] by reason of transgression, and it (t) cast
down the truth to the ground; and it practised, and prospered.



(s) He shows that their sins are the cause of these horrible afflictions: and yet comforts them, in that
he appoints this tyrant for a time, whom he would not allow to utterly abolish his religion.



(t) This horn will abolish for a time the true doctrine, and so corrupt God's service.
#BCV:Daniel 8:13
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:13>Daniel 8:13</verse></h3>



Then I heard one (u) saint speaking, and another saint said unto that certain [saint] which spake,
How long [shall be] the vision [concerning] the daily [sacrifice], and the transgression of (x)
desolation, to give both the sanctuary and the (y) host to be trodden under foot?



(u) Meaning that he heard one of the angels asking this question of Christ, whom he called a certain
one, or a secret one, or a marvellous one.



(x) That is, the Jews' sins, which were the cause of its destruction.



(y) That is, which suppresses God's religion and his people.
#BCV:Daniel 8:14
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:14>Daniel 8:14</verse></h3>



And (z) he said unto me, Unto (a) two thousand and three hundred days; then shall the sanctuary be
cleansed.



(z) Christ answered me for the comfort of the Church.



(a) That is, until so many natural days have passed, which make six years, and three and a half
months: for the temple was profaned this long under Antiochus.
#BCV:Daniel 8:15
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:15>Daniel 8:15</verse></h3>

<page=2173>And it came to pass, when I, [even] I Daniel, had seen the vision, and sought for the meaning, then,
behold, there stood before me (b) as the appearance of a man.



(b) Who was Christ who in this manner declared himself to the old fathers, how he would be God
manifest in flesh.
#BCV:Daniel 8:16
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:16>Daniel 8:16</verse></h3>



And I heard a man's voice between [the banks of] Ulai, which called, and said, Gabriel, (c) make this
[man] to understand the vision.



(c) This power to command the angel, declared that he was God.
#BCV:Daniel 8:17
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:17>Daniel 8:17</verse></h3>



So he came near where I stood: and when he came, I was afraid, and fell upon my face: but he said
unto me, Understand, O son of man: for (d) at the time of the end [shall be] the vision.



(d) The effect of this vision will not yet appear, until a long time after.
#BCV:Daniel 8:19
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:19>Daniel 8:19</verse></h3>



And he said, Behold, I will make thee know what shall be in the last (e) end of the indignation: for at
the time appointed the end [shall be].



(e) Meaning that great rage which Antiochus would show against the Church.
#BCV:Daniel 8:22
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:22>Daniel 8:22</verse></h3>



Now that being broken, whereas four stood up for it, four kingdoms shall stand up (f) out of the
nation, but not (g) in his power.



(f) That is, out of Greece.



(g) They will not have similar power as Alexander had.
#BCV:Daniel 8:23
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:23>Daniel 8:23</verse></h3>



And in the latter time of their kingdom, when the transgressors are come to the full, a king of (h)
fierce countenance, and understanding dark sentences, shall stand up.



(h) Noting that this Antiochus was impudent and cruel, and also crafty so that he could not be
deceived.
#BCV:Daniel 8:24
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:24>Daniel 8:24</verse></h3>

#BCV:dan 8:24
<h3><verse=dan 8:24>dan 8:24</verse></h3>



shall prosper, and practise, and shall destroy the (k) mighty and the holy people.



(i) That is, not like Alexander's strength.



(k) Both the Gentiles that dwelt around him, and also the Jews.
#BCV:Daniel 8:25
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:25>Daniel 8:25</verse></h3>



And through his (l) policy also he shall cause craft to prosper in his hand; and he shall magnify
[himself] in his heart, and by (m) peace shall destroy many: he shall also stand up against the (n)
Prince of princes; but he shall be broken (o) without hand.



(l) Whatever he goes about by his craft, he will bring it to pass.



(m) That is, under pretence of peace, or as it were in sport.



(n) Meaning, against God.



(o) For God would destroy him with a notable plague, and so comfort his Church.
#BCV:Daniel 8:26
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:26>Daniel 8:26</verse></h3>



And the vision of the (p) evening and the morning which was told [is] true: wherefore shut thou up
the vision; for it [shall be] for many days.



(p) Read (<bcv=Dan 8:14>Dan 8:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Daniel 8:27
<h3><verse=Daniel 8:27>Daniel 8:27</verse></h3>



And I Daniel fainted, and was sick (q) [certain] days; afterward I rose up, and did the king's business;
and I was astonished at the vision, but none understood [it].



(q) Because of fear and astonishment.

<h2>Daniel 9</h2>

#BCV:Daniel 9:1
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:1>Daniel 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=2175>In the first year of Darius the son of (a) Ahasuerus, of the seed of the Medes, which was made king
over the (b) realm of the Chaldeans;



(a) Who was also called Astyages.



(b) For Cyrus led with ambition, and went about wars in other countries, and therefore Darius had
the title of the kingdom, even though Cyrus was king in effect.
#BCV:Daniel 9:2
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:2>Daniel 9:2</verse></h3>



In the first year of his reign I Daniel understood by (c) books the number of the years, whereof the
word of the LORD came to Jeremiah the prophet, that he would accomplish seventy years in the
desolations of Jerusalem.



(c) For even though he was an excellent Prophet, yet he daily increased in knowledge by the reading
of the scriptures.
#BCV:Daniel 9:3
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:3>Daniel 9:3</verse></h3>



And I set my face unto the Lord God, to (d) seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting, and
sackcloth, and ashes:



(d) He does not speak of that ordinary prayer, which he used in his house three times a day, but of a
rare and vehement prayer, lest their sins should cause God to delay the time of their deliverance
prophesied by Jeremiah.
#BCV:Daniel 9:4
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:4>Daniel 9:4</verse></h3>



And I prayed unto the LORD my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the (e) great and
dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his
commandments;



(e) That is, has all power in yourself to execute your terrible judgments against obstinate sinners, as
you are rich in mercy to comfort those who obey your word and love you.
#BCV:Daniel 9:7
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:7>Daniel 9:7</verse></h3>



O Lord, (f) righteousness [belongeth] unto thee, but unto us confusion of faces, as at this day; to the
men of Judah, and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and unto all Israel, [that are] near, and [that are]
<page=2176>far off, through all the countries whither thou hast driven them, because of their trespass that they
have trespassed against thee.



(f) He shows that whenever God punishes, he does it for just cause: and thus the godly never accuse
him of rigour as the wicked do, but acknowledge that in themselves there is just cause why he
should so treat them.
#BCV:Daniel 9:8
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:8>Daniel 9:8</verse></h3>



O Lord, to us [belongeth] confusion of face, to our (g) kings, to our princes, and to our fathers,
because we have sinned against thee.



(g) He does not excuse the kings because of their authority, but prays chiefly for them as the chief
occasions of these great plagues.
#BCV:Daniel 9:10
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:10>Daniel 9:10</verse></h3>



Neither have we obeyed the (h) voice of the LORD our God, to walk in his laws, which he set
before us by his servants the prophets.



(h) He shows that they rebel against God, who do not serve him according to his commandment
and word.
#BCV:Daniel 9:11
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:11>Daniel 9:11</verse></h3>



Yea, all Israel have transgressed thy law, even by departing, that they might not obey thy voice;
therefore the (i) curse is poured upon us, and the oath that [is] written in the law of Moses the
servant of God, because we have sinned against him.



(i) As in (<bcv=Deu 27:15>Deu 27:15</bcv>), or the curse confirmed by an oath.
#BCV:Daniel 9:16
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:16>Daniel 9:16</verse></h3>



O Lord, according to all thy (k) righteousness, I beseech thee, let thine anger and thy fury be turned
away from thy city Jerusalem, thy holy mountain: because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our
fathers, Jerusalem and thy people [are become] a reproach to all [that are] about us.



(k) That is, according to all your merciful promises and the performance of them.
#BCV:Daniel 9:17
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:17>Daniel 9:17</verse></h3>



Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face
to (l) shine upon thy sanctuary that is desolate, for the (m) Lord's sake.

<page=2177>(l) Show yourself favourable.



(m) That is, for your Christ's sake, in whom you will accept all of our prayers.
#BCV:Daniel 9:18
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:18>Daniel 9:18</verse></h3>



O my God, incline thine ear, and hear; open thine eyes, and behold our desolations, and the city
which is called by thy name: for we do not present our supplications before thee for our (n)
righteousnesses, but for thy great mercies.



(n) Declaring that the godly flee only to God's mercies, and renounce their own works, when they
seek for remission of their sins.
#BCV:Daniel 9:19
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:19>Daniel 9:19</verse></h3>



O Lord, hear; O Lord, forgive; O Lord, (o) hearken and do; defer not, for thine own sake, O my
God: for thy city and thy people are called by thy name.



(o) Thus he could not content himself with any vehemency of words: for he was so led with a
fervent zeal, considering God's promise made to the city in respect of his Church, and for the
advancement of God's glory.
#BCV:Daniel 9:24
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:24>Daniel 9:24</verse></h3>



Seventy (p) weeks are determined upon (q) thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the (r)
transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in
everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.



(p) He alludes to Jeremiah's prophecy, who prophesied that their captivity would be seventy years:
but now God's mercy would exceed his judgment seven times as much, which would be 490 years,
even until the coming of Christ, and so then it would continue forever.



(q) Meaning Daniel's nation, over whom he was careful.



(r) To show mercy and to put sin out of remembrance.
#BCV:Daniel 9:25
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:25>Daniel 9:25</verse></h3>



Know therefore and understand, [that] from (s) the going forth of the commandment to restore and
to build Jerusalem unto the Messiah the Prince [shall be] seven (t) weeks, and (u) threescore and two
weeks: the street shall be built again, and the wall, even in troublous times.



(s) That is, from the time that Cyrus gave them permission to depart.

<page=2178>(t) These weeks make forty-nine years, of which forty-six are referred to the time of the building of
the temple, and three to the laying of the foundation.



(u) Counting from the sixth year of Darius, who gave the second commandment for the building of
the temple are sixty-two weeks, which make 434 years, which comprehend the time from the
building of the temple until the baptism of Christ.
#BCV:Daniel 9:26
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:26>Daniel 9:26</verse></h3>



And after threescore and two (x) weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but (y) not for himself: and the
people of the (z) prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof
[shall be] with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.



(x) In this week of the seventy, will Christ come and preach and suffer death.



(y) He will seem to have no beauty, nor to be of any estimation; (<bcv=Isa 53:2>Isa 53:2</bcv>).



(z) Meaning Titus, Vespasians's son, who would come and destroy both the temple, and the people,
without any hope of recovery.
#BCV:Daniel 9:27
<h3><verse=Daniel 9:27>Daniel 9:27</verse></h3>



And he (a) shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he
shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to (b) cease, (c) and for the overspreading of abominations
he shall make [it] desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon
the desolate.



(a) By the preaching of the Gospel he affirmed his promise, first to the Jews, and after to the
Gentiles.



(b) Christ accomplished this by his death and resurrection.



(c) Meaning that Jerusalem and the sanctuary would be utterly destroyed because of their rebellion
against God, and their idolatry: or as some read, that the plague will be so great, that they will all be
astonished at them.

<h2>Daniel 10</h2>

#BCV:Daniel 10:1
<h3><verse=Daniel 10:1>Daniel 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=2179>In the (a) third year of Cyrus king of Persia a thing was revealed unto Daniel, whose name was
called Belteshazzar; and the thing [was] true, but the time appointed [was] (b) long: and he
understood the thing, and had understanding of the vision.



(a) He notes this third year, because at this time the building of the temple began to be hindered by
Cambyses, Cyrus's son, when the father made war in Asia minor against the Scythians, which was
discouraging to the godly, and fearful to Daniel.



(b) Which is to declare that the godly should not hasten too much, but patiently abide the fulfilment
of God's promise.
#BCV:Daniel 10:4
<h3><verse=Daniel 10:4>Daniel 10:4</verse></h3>



And in the four and twentieth day of the (c) first month, as I (d) was by the side of the great river,
which [is] Hiddekel;



(c) Called Abib, which contains part of March, and part of April.



(d) Being carried by the Spirit of prophecy so that he could see the river Tigris.
#BCV:Daniel 10:5
<h3><verse=Daniel 10:5>Daniel 10:5</verse></h3>



Then I lifted up mine eyes, and looked, and behold a certain man (e) clothed in linen, whose loins
[were] girded with fine gold of Uphaz:



(e) This was the angel of God, who was sent to assure Daniel in this prophecy that follows.
#BCV:Daniel 10:8
<h3><verse=Daniel 10:8>Daniel 10:8</verse></h3>



Therefore I was left alone, and saw this great vision, and there remained no strength in me: for (f)
my comeliness was turned in me into corruption, and I retained no strength.



(f) So that because of fear he was like a dead man because of his deformity.
#BCV:Daniel 10:10
<h3><verse=Daniel 10:10>Daniel 10:10</verse></h3>



And, behold, an (g) hand touched me, which set me upon my knees and [upon] the palms of my
hands.



(g) Which declares that when we are struck down with the majesty of God we cannot rise, unless he
also lifts us up with his hand, which is his power.
#BCV:Daniel 10:13
<h3><verse=Daniel 10:13>Daniel 10:13</verse></h3>

<page=2180>But the (h) prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, (i) Michael,
one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia.



(h) Meaning Cambyses, who reigned in his father's absence, and did not only for this time hinder the
building of the temple, but would have further raged, if God had not sent me to resist him: and
therefore I have stayed for the profit of the Church.



(i) Even though God could by one angel destroy all the world, yet to assure his children of his love
he sends forth double power, even Michael, that is, Christ Jesus the head of angels.
#BCV:Daniel 10:14
<h3><verse=Daniel 10:14>Daniel 10:14</verse></h3>



Now I am come to make thee understand what shall befall thy people in the latter days: for yet the (k)
vision [is] for [many] days.



(k) For even though the Prophet Daniel would end and cease, yet his doctrine would continue until
the coming of Christ, for the comfort of his Church.
#BCV:Daniel 10:16
<h3><verse=Daniel 10:16>Daniel 10:16</verse></h3>



And, behold, (l) [one] like the similitude of the sons of men touched my lips: then I opened my
mouth, and spake, and said unto him that stood before me, O my lord, (m) by the vision my sorrows
are turned upon me, and I have retained no strength.



(l) This was the same angel that spoke with him before in the appearance of a man.



(m) I was overcome with fear and sorrow, when I saw the vision.
#BCV:Daniel 10:19
<h3><verse=Daniel 10:19>Daniel 10:19</verse></h3>



And said, O man greatly beloved, fear not: (n) peace [be] unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong. And
when he had spoken unto me, I (o) was strengthened, and said, Let my lord speak; for thou hast
strengthened me.



(n) He declares by this that God would be merciful to the people of Israel.



(o) Which declares that when God smites his children down, he does not immediately lift them up at
once (for now the Angel had touched him twice), but by little and little.
#BCV:Daniel 10:20
<h3><verse=Daniel 10:20>Daniel 10:20</verse></h3>

<page=2181>Then said he, Knowest thou wherefore I come unto thee? and now will I return to fight with the
prince of Persia: and when I am gone forth, lo, the (p) prince of Grecia shall come.



(p) Meaning that he would not only himself bridle the rage of Cambyses, but also the other kings of
Persia by Alexander the King of Macedonia.
#BCV:Daniel 10:21
<h3><verse=Daniel 10:21>Daniel 10:21</verse></h3>



But I will shew thee that which is noted in the scripture of truth: (q) and [there is] none that holdeth
with me in these things, but Michael your prince.



(q) For this angel was appointed for the defence of the Church under Christ, who is the head of it.

<h2>Daniel 11</h2>

#BCV:Daniel 11:1
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:1>Daniel 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=2182>Also I in the first year of Darius the Mede, [even] I, (a) stood to confirm and to strengthen him.



(a) The angel assures Daniel that God has given him power to perform these things, seeing that he
appointed him to assist Darius when he overcame the Chaldeans.
#BCV:Daniel 11:2
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:2>Daniel 11:2</verse></h3>



And now will I shew thee the truth. Behold, there shall stand up yet (b) three kings in Persia; and the
fourth shall be far richer than [they] all: and by his strength through his riches he shall stir up (c) all
against the realm of Grecia.



(b) Of which Cambyses that now reigned was the first, the second Smerdes, the third Darius the son
of Hystaspis, and the fourth Xerxes, who all were enemies to the people of God, and stood against
them.



(c) For he raised up all the east countries to fight against the Grecians, and even though he had in his
army 900,000 men, yet in four battles he was defeated, and fled away with shame.
#BCV:Daniel 11:3
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:3>Daniel 11:3</verse></h3>



And a (d) mighty king shall stand up, that shall rule with great dominion, and do according to his
will.



(d) That is, Alexander the Great.
#BCV:Daniel 11:4
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:4>Daniel 11:4</verse></h3>



And when he shall stand up, (e) his kingdom shall be broken, (f) and shall be divided toward the (g)
four winds of heaven; and not to his (h) posterity, nor according to (i) his dominion which he ruled:
for his kingdom shall be plucked up, even for others beside (k) those.



(e) For when his estate was most flourishing, he overcame himself with drink, and so fell into a
disease: or as some write, was poisoned by Cassander.



(f) For his twelve chief princes first divided his kingdom among themselves.



(g) After this his monarchy was divided into four: for Seleucus had Syria, Antigonus had Asia minor,
Cassander had the kingdom of Macedonia, and Ptolemeus had Egypt.



(h) Thus God avenged Alexander's ambition and cruelty, in causing his posterity to be murdered,
partly by their father's chief friends, and partly by one another.

<page=2183>(i) None of these four will be able to be compared to the power of Alexander.



(k) That is, his posterity having no part of it.
#BCV:Daniel 11:5
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:5>Daniel 11:5</verse></h3>



And the (l) king of the south shall be strong, and [one] of (m) his princes; and he shall be strong
above him, and have dominion; his dominion [shall be] a great dominion.



(l) That is, Ptolemeus king of Egypt.



(m) That is, Antiochus the son of Seleucus, and one of Alexander's princes will be more mighty: for
he would have both Asia and Syria.
#BCV:Daniel 11:6
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:6>Daniel 11:6</verse></h3>



And in the end of years they shall join themselves together; for the king's (n) daughter of the south
shall come to the king of the north to make an agreement: but she shall not retain the power of the



(o) arm; neither shall (p) he stand, nor his (q) arm: but she shall be given up, and they that brought
her, and he (r) that begat her, and he that strengthened her in [these] times.



(n) That is, Bernice the daughter of Ptolemais Philadelphus will be given in marriage to Antiochus
Theos, thinking by this affinity that Syria and Egypt would have a continual peace together.



(o) That power and strength will not continue: for soon after her husband's death, Bernice and her
young son were slain by her stepson Seleicus Calinieus the son of Laodice, the lawful wife of
Antiochus, but put away for this woman's sake.



(p) Neither Ptolemais nor Antiochus.



(q) Some read "seed", meaning the child begotten by Bernice.



(r) Some read, "she that begat her", and by this understand her nurse, who brought her up: so that
all those who were part of this marriage were destroyed.
#BCV:Daniel 11:7
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:7>Daniel 11:7</verse></h3>



But out of a branch of her (s) roots shall [one] stand up in his estate, (t) which shall come with an
army, and shall enter into the fortress of the king of the north, and shall deal against them, and shall
prevail:



(s) Meaning that Ptolemais Evergetes after the death of his father Philadelphus would succeed in the
kingdom, being of the same stock that Bernice was.



(t) To revenge the sister's death against Antiochus Calinicus King of Syria.
#BCV:Daniel 11:8
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:8>Daniel 11:8</verse></h3>

#BCV:dan 11:8
<h3><verse=dan 11:8>dan 11:8</verse></h3>



vessels of silver and of gold; and he shall continue (u) [more] years than the king of the north.



(u) For this Ptolemais reigned forty-six years.
#BCV:Daniel 11:10
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:10>Daniel 11:10</verse></h3>



But his (x) sons shall be stirred up, and shall assemble a multitude of great forces: and [one] (y) shall
certainly come, and overflow, and pass through: then shall he (z) return, and be stirred up, [even] to
his fortress.



(x) Meaning Seleucus and Antiochus the great, the sons of Calinicus, will make war against
Ptolemais Philopater, the son of Philadelphus.



(y) For his older brother Seleucus died, or was slain while the armies were preparing for war.



(z) That is, Philopater, when he will see Antiochus take great dominions from him in Syria, and also
ready to invade Egypt.
#BCV:Daniel 11:11
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:11>Daniel 11:11</verse></h3>



And the king of the south shall be moved with choler, and shall come forth and fight with him,
[even] with the king of the north: and he shall set forth a great (a) multitude; but the multitude shall
be given into his hand.



(a) For Antioch had 6,000 horsemen, and 60,000 footmen.
#BCV:Daniel 11:13
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:13>Daniel 11:13</verse></h3>



For the king of the north (b) shall return, and shall set forth a multitude greater than the former,
and shall certainly come after certain years with a great army and with much riches.



(b) After the death of Ptolemais Philopater, who left Ptolemais Epiphanes as his heir.
#BCV:Daniel 11:14
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:14>Daniel 11:14</verse></h3>



And in those times there shall (c) many stand up against the king of the south: also the robbers of
thy (d) people shall exalt themselves to establish the vision; but they shall fall.



(c) For not only Antaiochus came against him, but also Philip King of Macedonia, and these two
brought great power with them.

<page=2185>(d) For under Onies, who falsely alleged that place of (<bcv=isa 19:19>Isa 19:19</bcv>), certain of the Jews retired with him
into Egypt to fulfil this prophecy: also the angel shows that all these troubles which are in the
Church, are by the providence and counsel of God.

#BCV:Daniel 11:15
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:15>Daniel 11:15</verse></h3>



So the king of the north shall come, and cast up a mount, and take the most fenced cities: and the
arms of the south shall (e) not withstand, neither his chosen people, neither [shall there be any]
strength to withstand.



(e) The Egyptians were not able to resist Stopas, Antiochus' captain.
#BCV:Daniel 11:16
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:16>Daniel 11:16</verse></h3>



But he that cometh against him shall do according to his own will, and none shall stand before him:
and he shall stand in the (f) glorious land, which by his hand shall be consumed.



(f) He shows that he will not only afflict the Egyptians, but also the Jews, and will enter into their
country, of which he admonished them before, that they may know that all these things came by
God's providence.
#BCV:Daniel 11:17
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:17>Daniel 11:17</verse></h3>



He shall also (g) set his face to enter with the strength of his whole kingdom, and upright ones with
him; thus shall he do: and he shall give him the (h) daughter of women, corrupting (i) her: but (k)
she shall not stand [on his side], neither be for him.



(g) This was the second battle that Antiochus fought against Ptolemais Epiphanes.



(h) That is, a beautiful woman who was Cleopatra, Antiochus' daughter.



(i) For he did not regard the life of his daughter in respect of the kingdom of Egypt.



(k) She will not agree to his wicked counsel, but will love her husband, as her duty requires, and not
seek his destruction.
#BCV:Daniel 11:18
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:18>Daniel 11:18</verse></h3>



After this shall he turn his face unto the (l) isles, and shall take many: but a prince for his own behalf



(m) shall cause the reproach offered by him to cease; without his own reproach he shall cause [it] to
turn upon (n) him.



(l) That is, towards Asia, Greece, and those isles which are in the Mediterranean Sea: for the Jews
called all countries which were divided by the sea "isles".

<page=2186>(m) For whereas Antiochus was accustomed to condemn the Romans, and put their ambassadors to
shame in all places, Attilius the consul, or Lucius Scipio put him to flight, and caused his shame to
turn on his own head.



(n) By his wicked life, and obedience to foolish counsel.
#BCV:Daniel 11:19
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:19>Daniel 11:19</verse></h3>



Then he shall turn his face toward the fort of (o) his own land: but he shall stumble and fall, and not
be (p) found.



(o) For fear of the Romans he will flee to his strongholds.



(p) For when as under the pretence of poverty he would have robbed the temple of Jupiter
Dodomeus, the countrymen slew him.
#BCV:Daniel 11:20
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:20>Daniel 11:20</verse></h3>




(q) Then shall stand up in his estate a raiser of taxes [in] the glory of the kingdom: but within few
days he shall be destroyed, neither in (r) anger, nor in battle.



(q) That is, Seleuchus will succeed his father Antiochus.



(r) Not by foreign enemies, or battle, but by treason.
#BCV:Daniel 11:21
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:21>Daniel 11:21</verse></h3>



And in his estate shall stand up a (s) vile person, to whom they shall not give the honour of the
kingdom: but he shall come in peaceably, and obtain the kingdom by flatteries.



(s) Who was Antiochus Epiphanes, who as is thought was the occasion of Seleucus his brother's
death, and was of a vile, cruel, and flattering nature, and defrauded his brother's son of the kingdom,
and usurped the kingdom without the consent of the people.
#BCV:Daniel 11:22
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:22>Daniel 11:22</verse></h3>



And with the (t) arms of a flood shall they be overflown from before him, and shall be broken; yea,
also the prince of the (u) covenant.



(t) He shows that great foreign powers will come to help the young son of Seleucus against his uncle
Antiochus, and yet will be overthrown.



(u) Meaning Ptolemais Philopater's son, who was this child's cousin, and is here called the prince of
the covenant, because he was the chief, and all others followed his conduct.
#BCV:Daniel 11:23
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:23>Daniel 11:23</verse></h3>

#BCV:dan 11:23
<h3><verse=dan 11:23>dan 11:23</verse></h3>



become strong with a (y) small people.



(x) For after the battle, Philometor and his uncle Antiochus made a league.



(y) For he came upon him by surprise, and when he did not suspect his uncle Antiochus at all.
#BCV:Daniel 11:24
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:24>Daniel 11:24</verse></h3>



He shall enter peaceably even upon the fattest places of the province; and he shall do [that] which
his fathers (z) have not done, nor his fathers' fathers; he shall scatter among them the prey, and spoil,
and riches: [yea], and he shall forecast his devices against the strong holds, even for a (a) time.



(z) Meaning, in Egypt.



(a) He will content himself with the small strongholds for a time, but will always labour by craft to
attain to the chiefest.
#BCV:Daniel 11:25
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:25>Daniel 11:25</verse></h3>



And he shall stir up his power and his courage against the king of the south with a great army; and
the king of the south shall be stirred up to battle with a very great and mighty army; but he shall not



(b) stand: for they shall forecast devices against him.



(b) He will be overcome with treason.
#BCV:Daniel 11:26
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:26>Daniel 11:26</verse></h3>



Yea, they that feed of the portion of (c) his meat shall destroy him, and his army (d) shall overflow:
and many shall fall down slain.



(c) Signifying his princes and the chief men about him.



(d) Declaring that his soldiers will break out and venture their life to stay and to be slain for the
safeguard of their prince.
#BCV:Daniel 11:27
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:27>Daniel 11:27</verse></h3>



And both these kings' hearts [shall be] to do (e) mischief, and they shall speak lies at one table; but it
shall not prosper: for (f) yet the end [shall be] at the time appointed.



(e) The uncle and the nephew will make truce, and banquet together, yet in their hearts they will
imagine mischief against one another.

<page=2188>(f) Signifying that it depends not on the counsel of men to bring things to pass, but on the
providence of God, who rules the kings by a secret bridle, so that they cannot do what they
themselves wish.
#BCV:Daniel 11:28
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:28>Daniel 11:28</verse></h3>



Then shall he return into his land with great (g) riches; and his heart [shall be] against the holy
covenant; and he shall do [exploits], and return to his own land.



(g) Which he will take from the Jews in spoiling Jerusalem and the temple, and this is told them
before to exhort them to be patient, knowing that all things are done by God's providence.
#BCV:Daniel 11:30
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:30>Daniel 11:30</verse></h3>



For the ships (h) of Chittim shall come against him: therefore he shall be grieved, and return, and
have indignation against the holy covenant: so shall he do; he shall even return, (i) and have
intelligence with them that forsake the holy covenant.



(h) That is, the Roman power will come against him: for P. Popilius the ambassador appointed him
to depart in the Romans' name, which he obeyed, although with grief, and to avenge his rage he
came against the people of God the second time.



(i) With the Jews who will forsake the covenant of the Lord: for first he was called against the Jews
by Jason the high priest, and this second time by Menelaus.
#BCV:Daniel 11:31
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:31>Daniel 11:31</verse></h3>



And arms (k) shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary (l) of strength, and shall
take away the daily [sacrifice], and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate.



(k) A great faction of the wicked Jews will join with Antiochus.



(l) So called because the power of God was not at all diminished, even though this tyrant set up in
the temple the image of Jupiter Olympius, and so began to corrupt the pure service of God.
#BCV:Daniel 11:32
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:32>Daniel 11:32</verse></h3>



And such as do wickedly (m) against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that
do know their God shall be strong, and do [exploits].



(m) Meaning those who had the name of Jews, but indeed were not Jews at all, for they sold their
souls, and betrayed their brethren for gain.
#BCV:Daniel 11:33
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:33>Daniel 11:33</verse></h3>

<page=2189>And they that understand among the (n) people shall instruct many: (o) yet they shall fall by the
sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, [many] days.



(n) Those that remain constant among the people will teach others by their example, and edify many
in the true religion.



(o) By which he exhorts the godly to constancy, even though they should perish a thousand times,
and even though their miseries endure ever so long.
#BCV:Daniel 11:34
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:34>Daniel 11:34</verse></h3>



Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a (p) little help: but many shall cleave to them (q)
with flatteries.



(p) As God will not leave his Church destitute, yet he will not deliver it all at once, but help in such a
way that they may still seem to fight under the cross, as he did in the time of the Maccabees, of
which he here prophesies.



(q) That is, there will even be among this small number many hypocrites.
#BCV:Daniel 11:35
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:35>Daniel 11:35</verse></h3>



And [some] of them (r) of understanding shall fall, to try them, and to purge, and to make [them]
white, [even] to the time of the end: because [it is] yet for a time appointed.



(r) That is, of those that fear God and will lose their life for the defence of true religion. Signifying
also that the Church must continually be tried and purged, and ought to look for one persecution
after another: for God has appointed the time, and therefore we must obey.
#BCV:Daniel 11:36
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:36>Daniel 11:36</verse></h3>



And the (s) king shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt himself, and magnify himself above
every god, and shall speak marvellous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the
indignation (t) be accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done.



(s) Because the angels purpose is to show the whole course of the persecutions of the Jews until the
coming of Christ, he now speaks of the monarchy of the Romans, which he notes by the name of a
king, who were without religion and condemned the true God.



(t) So long the tyrants will prevail as God has appointed to punish his people: but he shows that it is
but for a time.
#BCV:Daniel 11:37
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:37>Daniel 11:37</verse></h3>

<page=2190>Neither shall he regard the (u) God of his fathers, nor the desire (x) of women, nor regard any god:
for he shall magnify himself above all.



(u) The Romans will observe no certain form of religion as other nations, but will change their gods
at their pleasures, indeed, they will condemn them and prefer themselves to their gods.



(x) Signifying that they would be without all humanity: for the love of women is taken for singular or
great love, as (<bcv=II Sa 1:26>Sa2 1:26</bcv>).
#BCV:Daniel 11:38
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:38>Daniel 11:38</verse></h3>



But in his estate shall he honour the (y) God of forces: and a god whom his fathers knew not shall
he honour with (z) gold, and silver, and with precious stones, and pleasant things.



(y) That is, the god of power and riches: they will esteem their own power above all their gods and
worship it.



(z) Under pretence of worshipping the gods, they will enrich their city with the most precious jewels
of all the world, because by this all men would hold them in admiration for their power and riches.
#BCV:Daniel 11:39
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:39>Daniel 11:39</verse></h3>



Thus shall he do in (a) the most strong holds with a strange god, whom he shall acknowledge [and]
increase with glory: and he shall cause them to rule over many, and shall divide the land for gain.



(a) Even though in their hearts they had no religion, yet they did acknowledge the gods, and
worshipped them in their temples, lest they should have been despised as atheists. But this was to
increase their fame and riches, and when they gained any country, they made others the rulers of it
in such a way that the profit always came to the Romans.
#BCV:Daniel 11:40
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:40>Daniel 11:40</verse></h3>



And at the time of the end shall the king of the (b) south push at him: and the king of the north
shall come against him like a whirlwind, with chariots, and with horsemen, and with many ships; and
he shall enter into the countries, and shall overflow and pass over.



(b) That is, both the Egyptians and the Syrians will at length fight against the Romans, but they will
be overcome.
#BCV:Daniel 11:41
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:41>Daniel 11:41</verse></h3>



He shall enter also into the (c) glorious land, and many [countries] shall be overthrown: but these
shall escape out of his hand, [even] Edom, and Moab, and the chief of the children of Ammon.

<page=2191>(c) The angel forewarns the Jews that when they should see the Romans invade them, and that the
wicked would escape their hands, that then they should think that all this was done by God's
providence, seeing that he warned them of it so long before, and therefore he would still preserve
them.
#BCV:Daniel 11:44
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:44>Daniel 11:44</verse></h3>



But tidings out of the east and out of the north shall (d) trouble him: therefore he shall go forth (e)
with great fury to destroy, and utterly to make away many.



(d) Hearing that Crassus was slain, and Antonius defeated.



(e) For Augustus overcame the Parthians, and recovered that which Antonius had lost.
#BCV:Daniel 11:45
<h3><verse=Daniel 11:45>Daniel 11:45</verse></h3>



And he shall plant the tabernacles (f) of his palace between the seas in the glorious holy mountain;
yet he shall come to his end, and none shall help him.



(f) The Romans after this reigned quietly throughout all countries, and from sea to sea, and in Judea:
but at length because of their cruelty God will destroy them.

<h2>Daniel 12</h2>

#BCV:Daniel 12:1
<h3><verse=Daniel 12:1>Daniel 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=2192>And at that (a) time shall Michael stand up, the great prince which standeth for the children of thy
people: and there shall be a time of trouble, such as never was since there was a nation [even] to that
same time: and at that time thy people shall be delivered, every one that shall be found written in the
book.



(a) The angel here notes two things: first that the Church will be in great affliction and trouble at
Christ's coming, and next that God will send his angel to deliver it, whom he here calls Michael,
meaning Christ, who is proclaimed by the preaching of the Gospel.
#BCV:Daniel 12:2
<h3><verse=Daniel 12:2>Daniel 12:2</verse></h3>



And many (b) of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and
some to shame [and] everlasting contempt.



(b) Meaning all will rise at the general resurrection, which thing he here names because the faithful
should always consider that: for in the earth there will be no sure comfort.
#BCV:Daniel 12:3
<h3><verse=Daniel 12:3>Daniel 12:3</verse></h3>



And they that be (c) wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that (d) turn many
to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.



(c) Who have kept the true fear of God and his religion.



(d) He chiefly means the ministers of God's word, and next all the faithful who instruct the ignorant,
and bring them to the true knowledge of God.
#BCV:Daniel 12:4
<h3><verse=Daniel 12:4>Daniel 12:4</verse></h3>



But thou, O Daniel, (e) shut up the words, and seal the book, (f) [even] to the time of the end: many
shall run to and fro, and knowledge shall be increased.



(e) Even though the most part despise this prophecy, yet make sure you keep it and esteem it as a
treasure.



(f) Until the time that God has appointed for the full revelation of these things: and then many will
run to and fro to search for the knowledge of these mysteries, which things they obtain now by the
light of the Gospel.
#BCV:Daniel 12:5
<h3><verse=Daniel 12:5>Daniel 12:5</verse></h3>

<page=2193>Then I Daniel looked, and, behold, there stood other two, the one on this side of the bank of the (g)
river, and the other on that side of the bank of the river.



(g) Which was the Tigris.
#BCV:Daniel 12:7
<h3><verse=Daniel 12:7>Daniel 12:7</verse></h3>



And I heard the man clothed in linen, which [was] upon the waters of the river, when he held up his



(h) right hand and his left hand unto heaven, and sware by him that liveth for ever that [it shall be]
for a (i) time, times, and an half; and when he shall have accomplished (k) to scatter the power of the
holy people, all these [things] shall be finished.



(h) Which was as it were a double oath, and did the more confirm the thing.



(i) Meaning, a long time, a longer time, and at length a short time: signifying that their troubles
would have an end.



(k) When the Church will be scattered and diminished in such a way as it will seem to have no power.
#BCV:Daniel 12:11
<h3><verse=Daniel 12:11>Daniel 12:11</verse></h3>



And from the time [that] the (l) daily [sacrifice] shall be taken away, and the abomination that maketh
desolate set up, [there (m) shall be] a thousand two hundred and ninety days.



(l) From the time that Christ by his sacrifice will take away the sacrifices and ceremonies of the Law.



(m) Signifying that the time will be long until Christ's second coming, and yet the children of God
ought not to be discouraged, even though it is deferred.
#BCV:Daniel 12:12
<h3><verse=Daniel 12:12>Daniel 12:12</verse></h3>



Blessed [is] he that waiteth, and cometh to the thousand three hundred and (n) five and thirty days.



(n) In this number he adds a month and a half to the former number, signifying that it is not in man
to appoint the time of Christ's coming, but that they are blessed that patiently wait for his appearing.
#BCV:Daniel 12:13
<h3><verse=Daniel 12:13>Daniel 12:13</verse></h3>



But go (o) thou thy way till the end [be]: for thou shalt rest, and stand in thy lot at the end of the
days.



(o) The angel warns the Prophet patiently to wait, until the time appointed comes, signifying that he
should depart this life, and rise again with the elect, when God had sufficiently humbled and purged
his Church.

<h1>Hosea</h1>


<h2>Hosea 1</h2>

#BCV:Hosea 1:1
<h3><verse=Hosea 1:1>Hosea 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2195>The word of the LORD that came unto Hosea, the son of Beeri, in the days (a) of Uzziah, Jotham,
Ahaz, [and] Hezekiah, (b) kings of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam the son of Joash, king of
Israel.



The Argument - After the ten tribes had fallen away from God by the wicked and subtle counsel of
Jeroboam, the son of Neba, and instead of his true service commanded by his word, worshipped
him according to their own imaginings and traditions of men, giving themselves to most vile idolatry
and superstition, the Lord from time to time sent them Prophets to call them to repentance. But
they grew even worse and worse, and still abused God's benefits. Therefore now when their
prosperity was at the highest under Jeroboam, the son of Joash, God sent Hosea and Amos to the
Israelites (as he did at the same time send Isaiah and Micah to those of Judah) to condemn them for
their ingratitude. And whereas they thought themselves to be greatly in the favour of God, and to be
his people, the Prophet calls them bastards and children born in adultery: and therefore shows them
that God would take away their kingdom, and give them to the Assyrians to be led away captives.
Thus Hosea faithfully executed his office for the space of seventy years, though they remained still
in their vices and wickedness and derided the Prophets, and condemned God's judgments. And
because they would neither be discouraged with threatening only, nor should they flatter themselves
by the sweetness of God's promises, he sets before them the two principal parts of the Law, which
are the promise of salvation, and the doctrine of life. For the first part he directs the faithful to the
Messiah, by whom alone they would have true deliverance: and for the second, he uses threatenings
and menaces to bring them from their wicked manners and vices: and this is the chief scope of all
the Prophets, either by God's promises to allure them to be godly, or else by threatenings of his
judgments to scare them from vice. And even though the whole Law contains these two points, yet
the Prophets moreover note distinctly both the time of God's judgments and the manner.



(a) Also called Azariah, who being a leper was disposed from his kingdom.



(b) So that it may be gathered by the reign of these four kings that he preached about eighty years.
#BCV:Hosea 1:2
<h3><verse=Hosea 1:2>Hosea 1:2</verse></h3>



The beginning of the word of the LORD by Hosea. And the LORD said to Hosea, Go, take unto
thee a wife (c) of whoredoms and children of whoredoms: for the land hath committed great
whoredom, [departing] from the LORD.

<page=2196>(c) That is, one that has been a harlot for a long time: not that the Prophet did this thing in effect,
but he saw this in a vision, or else was commanded by God to set forth under this parable or figure
the idolatry of the Synagogue, and of the people her children.
#BCV:Hosea 1:3
<h3><verse=Hosea 1:3>Hosea 1:3</verse></h3>



So he went and took (d) Gomer the daughter of Diblaim; which conceived, and bare him a son.



(d) Gomer signifies a consumption or corruption, and rotten clusters of figs, declaring that they
were all corrupt like rotten figs.
#BCV:Hosea 1:4
<h3><verse=Hosea 1:4>Hosea 1:4</verse></h3>



And the LORD said unto him, Call his name (e) Jezreel; for yet a little [while], and I will avenge the
blood of Jezreel upon the house of (f) Jehu, and will cause to cease the kingdom of the house of
Israel.



(e) Meaning that they would no longer be called Israelites, which name they boasted because Israel
did prevail with God: but that they were as bastards, and therefore should be called Jezreelites, that is,
scattered people, alluding to Jezreel, which was the chief city of the ten tribes under Ahab, where
Jehu shed so much blood; (<bcv=I Ki 18:45>Kg1 18:45</bcv>).



(f) I will be avenged upon Jehu for the blood that he shed in Jezreel: for even though God stirred
him up to execute his judgments, yet he did them for his own ambition, and not for the glory of
God as the intended goal: for he built up that idolatry which he had destroyed.
#BCV:Hosea 1:5
<h3><verse=Hosea 1:5>Hosea 1:5</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass at that (g) day, that I will break the bow of Israel in the valley of Jezreel.



(g) When the measure of their iniquity is full, and I will take vengeance and destroy all their
administration and strength.
#BCV:Hosea 1:6
<h3><verse=Hosea 1:6>Hosea 1:6</verse></h3>



And she conceived again, and bare a daughter. And [God] said unto him, Call her name (h)
Loruhamah: for I will no more have mercy upon the house of Israel; but I will utterly (i) take them
away.



(h) That is, not obtaining mercy: by which he signifies that God's favour had departed from them.



(i) For the Israelites never returned after they were taken captives by the Assyrians.
#BCV:Hosea 1:7
<h3><verse=Hosea 1:7>Hosea 1:7</verse></h3>

<page=2197>But I will have mercy upon the house of Judah, and will (k) save them by the LORD their God, and
will not save them by bow, nor by sword, nor by battle, by horses, nor by horsemen.



(k) For after their captivity he restored them miraculously by the means of Cyrus; (<bcv=Ezra 1:1>Ezr 1:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Hosea 1:9
<h3><verse=Hosea 1:9>Hosea 1:9</verse></h3>



Then said [God], Call his name (l) Loammi: for ye [are] not my people, and I will not be your [God].



(l) That is, not my people.
#BCV:Hosea 1:10
<h3><verse=Hosea 1:10>Hosea 1:10</verse></h3>



Yet the number of the (m) children of Israel shall be as the sand of the sea, which cannot be
measured nor numbered; and it shall come to pass, [that] in the place where it was said unto them,
Ye [are] not my people, [there] it shall be said unto them, [Ye are] the sons of the living God.

(m) Because they thought that God could not have been true in his promise unless he had preserved
them, he declares that though they were destroyed, yet the true Israelites who are the sons of the
promise, would be without number, who consist both of the Jews and the Gentiles; (<bcv=Rom 9:26>Rom 9:26</bcv>).

#BCV:Hosea 1:11
<h3><verse=Hosea 1:11>Hosea 1:11</verse></h3>

Then shall the children of Judah and the children of Israel be (n) gathered together, and appoint
themselves one head, and they shall come up out of the land: for great [shall be] the day of Jezreel.

(n) That is, after the captivity of Babylon, when the Jews were restored: but chiefly this refers to the
time of Christ, who would be the head both of the Jews and Gentiles.

(o) The calamity and destruction of Israel will be so great, that to restore them will be a miracle.

<h2>Hosea 2</h2>

#BCV:Hosea 2:1
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:1>Hosea 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2198>Say ye unto your (a) brethren, Ammi; and to your sisters, Ruhamah.

(a) Seeing that I have promised you deliverance, it remains that you encourage one another to
embrace this promise, considering that you are my people on whom I will have mercy.

#BCV:Hosea 2:2
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:2>Hosea 2:2</verse></h3>

Plead with your (b) mother, plead: for she [is] not my wife, neither [am] I her husband: let her
therefore put away her whoredoms out of her sight, and her adulteries (c) from between her breasts;

(b) God shows that the fault was not in him, that he forsook them, but in their Synagogue, and their
idolatries; (<bcv=Isa 50:1>Isa 50:1</bcv>).

(c) Meaning that their idolatry was so great, that they were not ashamed, but boasted of it; <bcv=Eze 16:25>(bcv=Eze 16:25).</bcv>

#BCV:Hosea 2:3
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:3>Hosea 2:3</verse></h3>

Lest I strip her naked, and (d) set her as in the day that she was (e) born, and make her as a
wilderness, and set her like a dry land, and slay her with thirst.

(d) For even though his people were as a harlot for their idolatries, yet he had left them with their
dress and dowry and certain signs of his favour, but if they continued still, he would utterly destroy
them.

(e) When I brought her out of Egypt. See<bcv=Ezek 16:4> Eze 16:4</bcv>
#BCV:Hosea 2:4
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:4>Hosea 2:4</verse></h3>

And I will not have mercy upon her children; for they [be] the (f) children of whoredoms.

(f) That is bastards, and begotten in adultery.

#BCV:Hosea 2:5
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:5>Hosea 2:5</verse></h3>

For their mother hath played the harlot: she that conceived them hath done shamefully: for she said,
I will go after my (g) lovers, that give [me] my bread and my water, my wool and my flax, mine oil
and my drink.

(g) Meaning the idol which they served, and by whom they thought they had wealth and abundance.
#BCV:Hosea 2:6
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:6>Hosea 2:6</verse></h3>

<page=2199>Therefore, behold, I will hedge up (h) thy way with thorns, and make a wall, that she shall not find
her paths.



(h) I will punish you so that you may then test whether your idols can help you, and bring you into
such straightness that you will have no lust to play the harlot.
#BCV:Hosea 2:7
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:7>Hosea 2:7</verse></h3>



And she shall follow after her lovers, but she shall not overtake them; and she shall seek them, but
shall not find [them]: then shall she say, (i) I will go and return to my first husband; for then [was it]
better with me than now.



(i) This he speaks of the faithful, who are truly converted, and also shows the use and profit of
God's punishments.
#BCV:Hosea 2:8
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:8>Hosea 2:8</verse></h3>



For she did not know that I (k) gave her corn, and wine, and oil, and multiplied her silver and gold,
[which] they prepared for Baal.



(k) This declares that idolaters defraud God of his honour, when they attribute his benefits to their
idols.
#BCV:Hosea 2:9
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:9>Hosea 2:9</verse></h3>



Therefore will I return, and take away (l) my corn in the time thereof, and my wine in the season
thereof, and will recover my wool and my flax [given] to cover her nakedness.



(l) Signifying that God will take away his benefits, when man by his ingratitude abuses them.
#BCV:Hosea 2:10
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:10>Hosea 2:10</verse></h3>



And now will I discover her (m) lewdness in the sight of her lovers, and none shall deliver her out
of mine hand.



(m) That is, all her service, ceremonies, and inventions by which she worshipped her idols.
#BCV:Hosea 2:13
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:13>Hosea 2:13</verse></h3>

<page=2200>And I will visit upon her the days of (n) Baalim, wherein she burned incense to them, and she
decked herself with her (o) earrings and her jewels, and she went after her lovers, and forgat me,
saith the LORD.



(n) I will punish her for her idolatry.



(o) By showing how harlots trim themselves to please others, he declares how superstitious idolaters
set a great part of their religion in adorning themselves on their holy days.
#BCV:Hosea 2:14
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:14>Hosea 2:14</verse></h3>



Therefore, behold, I will (p) allure her, and bring her into the wilderness, and speak comfortably
unto her.



(p) By my benefits in offering her grace and mercy, even in that place where she will think herself
destitute of all help and comfort.
#BCV:Hosea 2:15
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:15>Hosea 2:15</verse></h3>



And I will give her her vineyards from thence, and the valley (q) of Achor for a door of hope: and
she shall (r) sing there, as in the days of her youth, and as in the day when she came up out of the
land of Egypt.



(q) Which was a plentiful valley, and in which they had great comfort when they came out of the
wilderness, as in (<bcv=Jos 7:26>Jos 7:26</bcv>), and is called the door of hope, because it was a departing from death and
an entry into life.



(r) She will then praise God as she did when she was delivered out of Egypt.
#BCV:Hosea 2:16
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:16>Hosea 2:16</verse></h3>



And it shall be at that day, saith the LORD, [that] thou shalt call me (s) Ishi; and shalt call me no
more (t) Baali.



(s) That is, my husband, knowing that I am united to you by a covenant which could not be violated.



(t) That is, my master: which name was applied to their idols.
#BCV:Hosea 2:17
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:17>Hosea 2:17</verse></h3>



For I will take away the names of Baalim out of her mouth, and they shall no more be remembered
by their (u) name.



(u) No idolatry will come into their mouth at all, but they will fear me purely according to my word.
#BCV:Hosea 2:18
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:18>Hosea 2:18</verse></h3>

#BCV:hos 2:18
<h3><verse=hos 2:18>hos 2:18</verse></h3>



of heaven, and [with] the creeping things of the ground: and I will break the bow and the sword and
the battle out of the earth, and will make them to lie down safely.



(x) Meaning that he will so bless them that all creatures will favour them.
#BCV:Hosea 2:20
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:20>Hosea 2:20</verse></h3>



I will even betroth thee unto me in (y) faithfulness: and thou shalt know the LORD.



(y) With a covenant that will never be broken.
#BCV:Hosea 2:21
<h3><verse=Hosea 2:21>Hosea 2:21</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass in that day, I will hear, saith the LORD, I will hear (z) the heavens, and
they shall hear the earth;



(z) Then will the heaven desire rain for the earth, which will bring forth things for the use of man.

<h2>Hosea 3</h2>

#BCV:Hosea 3:1
<h3><verse=Hosea 3:1>Hosea 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2202>Then said the LORD unto me, (a) Go yet, love a woman beloved of [her] friend, yet an adulteress,
according to the love of the LORD toward the children of Israel, who look to other gods, and (b)
love flagons of wine.



(a) In this the Prophet represents the person of God, who loved his Church before he called her,
and did not withdraw his love when she gave herself to idols.



(b) That is, gave themselves wholly to pleasure, and could not stop, as those that are given to
drunkenness.
#BCV:Hosea 3:2
<h3><verse=Hosea 3:2>Hosea 3:2</verse></h3>



So (c) I bought her to me for fifteen [pieces] of silver, and [for] an homer of barley, and an half
homer of barley:



(c) Yet I loved her and paid a small portion for her, lest she would have perceived the greatness of
my love, and abused me, and not been under duty: for fifteen pieces of silver was but half the price
of a slave; (<bcv=Exo 21:32>Exo 21:32</bcv>).
#BCV:Hosea 3:3
<h3><verse=Hosea 3:3>Hosea 3:3</verse></h3>



And I said unto her, Thou shalt abide for (d) me many days; thou shalt not play the harlot, and thou
shalt not be for [another] man: so [will] I also [be] for thee.



(d) I will try you a long time as in your widowhood, whether you will be mine or not.
#BCV:Hosea 3:4
<h3><verse=Hosea 3:4>Hosea 3:4</verse></h3>



For the children of Israel shall (e) abide many days without a king, and without a (f) prince, and
without a sacrifice, and without an image, and without an ephod, and [without] teraphim:



(e) Meaning not only all the time of their captivity, but also until Christ.



(f) That is, they would neither have administration nor religion, and their idols also in which they put
their confidence, would be destroyed.
#BCV:Hosea 3:5
<h3><verse=Hosea 3:5>Hosea 3:5</verse></h3>



Afterward shall the children of Israel return, and seek the LORD their God, and (g) David their
king; and shall fear the LORD and his goodness in the latter days.

<page=2203>(g) This is meant of Christ's kingdom, which was promised to David to be eternal; (Psa 72:17).

<h2>Hosea 4</h2>

#BCV:Hosea 4:1
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:1>Hosea 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=2204>Hear the word of the LORD, ye children of Israel: for the LORD (a) hath a controversy with the
inhabitants of the land, because [there is] no truth, nor mercy, nor knowledge of God in the land.



(a) Because the people would not obey the admonitions of the Prophets, he accuses them before the
judgment seat of God, against whom they chiefly offended; (<bcv=Isa 7:13>Isa 7:13</bcv>) (<bcv=Zec 12:10>Zac 12:10</bcv>;<bcv=Mic 6:1> Mic 6:1</bcv>,<bcv=Micah 6:2>2</bcv>).
#BCV:Hosea 4:2
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:2>Hosea 4:2</verse></h3>



By swearing, and lying, and killing, and stealing, and committing adultery, they break out, and (b)
blood toucheth blood.



(b) In every place appears a liberality to most wicked vices, so that one follows right after another.
#BCV:Hosea 4:4
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:4>Hosea 4:4</verse></h3>



Yet (c) let no man strive, nor reprove another: for thy people [are] as they that strive with the priest.



(c) As though he would say that it was in vain to rebuke them, for no man can endure it: indeed, they
will speak against the prophets and priests whose office it is chiefly to rebuke them.
#BCV:Hosea 4:5
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:5>Hosea 4:5</verse></h3>



Therefore shalt thou fall in the (d) day, and the prophet also shall fall with thee in the night, and I
will destroy thy (e) mother.



(d) You will both perish together as one, because the former would not obey, and the other, because
he would not admonish.



(e) That is, the synagogue in which you boast.
#BCV:Hosea 4:6
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:6>Hosea 4:6</verse></h3>



My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because (f) thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also
reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing (g) thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I
will also forget thy children.



(f) That is, the priests will be cast off, because for lack of knowledge they are not able to execute
their charge, and instruct others; (<bcv=Deu 33:3>Deu 33:3</bcv>;<bcv=Mal 2:7> Mal 2:7</bcv>).



(g) Meaning the whole body of the people, who were weary with hearing the word of God.
#BCV:Hosea 4:7
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:7>Hosea 4:7</verse></h3>

<page=2205>As they were (h) increased, so they sinned against me: [therefore] will I change their glory into
shame.



(h) The more I was beneficial to them.
#BCV:Hosea 4:8
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:8>Hosea 4:8</verse></h3>




(i) They eat up the sin of my people, and they set their heart on their iniquity.



(i) That is, the priests seek to eat the people's offerings, and flatter them in their sins.
#BCV:Hosea 4:9
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:9>Hosea 4:9</verse></h3>



And there shall be, like people, like (k) priest: and I will punish them for their ways, and reward them
their doings.



(k) Signifying that as they have sinned together, so will they be punished together.
#BCV:Hosea 4:10
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:10>Hosea 4:10</verse></h3>



For they shall eat, and not have enough: they shall (l) commit whoredom, and shall not increase:
because they have left off to take heed to the LORD.



(l) Showing that their wickedness will be punished in all ways: for even though they think by the
multitude of wives to have many children, yet they will be deceived of their hope.
#BCV:Hosea 4:11
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:11>Hosea 4:11</verse></h3>




(m) Whoredom and wine and new wine take away the heart.



(m) In giving themselves to pleasures, they become like brute beasts.
#BCV:Hosea 4:12
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:12>Hosea 4:12</verse></h3>



My (n) people ask counsel at their stocks, and their staff declareth unto them: for the (o) spirit of
whoredoms hath caused [them] to err, and they have gone a whoring from under their God.



(n) Thus he speaks by derision in calling them his people, who now because of their sins they were
not his people: for they sought help from stocks or wooden images and sticks or idols.



(o) They are carried away with madness.
#BCV:Hosea 4:13
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:13>Hosea 4:13</verse></h3>

#BCV:hos 4:13
<h3><verse=hos 4:13>hos 4:13</verse></h3>



poplars and elms, because the shadow thereof [is] good: therefore your daughters shall (p) commit
whoredom, and your spouses shall commit adultery.



(p) Because they take away God's honour, and give it to idols: therefore he will give them up to their
lusts, so that they will dishonour their own bodies; (<bcv=Rom 1:28>Rom 1:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Hosea 4:14
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:14>Hosea 4:14</verse></h3>



I will not (q) punish your daughters when they commit whoredom, nor your spouses when they
commit adultery: for themselves are separated with whores, and they sacrifice with harlots: therefore
the people [that] doth not understand shall fall.



(q) I will not correct your shame to bring you to proper living, but will let you run headlong to your
own damnation.
#BCV:Hosea 4:15
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:15>Hosea 4:15</verse></h3>



Though thou, Israel, play the harlot, [yet] (r) let not Judah offend; and come not ye unto (s) Gilgal,
neither go ye up to (t) Bethaven, nor swear, The LORD liveth.



(r) God complains that Judah is infected, and wants them to learn to return in time.



(s) For even though the Lord had honoured this place by his presence, yet because it was abused by
their idolatry, he did not want his people to resort there.



(t) He calls Bethel, that is, the house of God, Bethaven, that is, the house of iniquity, because of
their abominations set up there, signifying that no place is holy, where God is not purely worshipped.
#BCV:Hosea 4:16
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:16>Hosea 4:16</verse></h3>



For Israel slideth back as a backsliding heifer: now the LORD will feed them as a (u) lamb in a large
place.



(u) God will so disperse them, that they will not remain in any certain place.
#BCV:Hosea 4:18
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:18>Hosea 4:18</verse></h3>



Their drink is sour: they have committed whoredom continually: her rulers [with] shame do love, (x)
Give ye.



(x) They are so shameless in receiving bribes, that they command men to bring them to them.
#BCV:Hosea 4:19
<h3><verse=Hosea 4:19>Hosea 4:19</verse></h3>

#BCV:hos 4:19
<h3><verse=hos 4:19>hos 4:19</verse></h3>




(y) To carry them suddenly away.

<h2>Hosea 5</h2>

#BCV:Hosea 5:1
<h3><verse=Hosea 5:1>Hosea 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=2208>Hear ye this, O priests; and hearken, ye house of Israel; and give ye ear, O house of the king; for
judgment [is] toward you, because ye have been a (a) snare on Mizpah, and a net spread upon Tabor.



(a) The priests and princes caught the poor people in their snares, as the fowlers did the birds, in
these two high mountains.
#BCV:Hosea 5:2
<h3><verse=Hosea 5:2>Hosea 5:2</verse></h3>



And the revolters are profound to make (b) slaughter, though I [have been] a (c) rebuker of them all.



(b) Even though they seemed to be given altogether to holiness, and to sacrifices which here he calls
slaughter in contempt.



(c) Though I had admonished them continually by my Prophets.
#BCV:Hosea 5:3
<h3><verse=Hosea 5:3>Hosea 5:3</verse></h3>



I know (d) Ephraim, and Israel is not hid from me: for now, O Ephraim, thou committest
whoredom, [and] Israel is defiled.



(d) They boasted themselves not only to be Israelites, but also Ephraimites, because their King
Jeroboam came from that tribe.
#BCV:Hosea 5:5
<h3><verse=Hosea 5:5>Hosea 5:5</verse></h3>



And the (e) pride of Israel doth testify to his face: therefore shall Israel and Ephraim fall in their
iniquity; Judah also shall fall with them.



(e) Meaning their condemning of all admonitions.
#BCV:Hosea 5:7
<h3><verse=Hosea 5:7>Hosea 5:7</verse></h3>



They have dealt treacherously against the LORD: for they have begotten (f) strange children: now
shall (g) a month devour them with their portions.



(f) That is, their children are degenerate, so that there is no hope in them.



(g) Their destruction is not far off.
#BCV:Hosea 5:8
<h3><verse=Hosea 5:8>Hosea 5:8</verse></h3>

<page=2209>Blow ye the cornet in Gibeah, [and] the trumpet in Ramah: cry aloud [at] Bethaven, after thee, O (h)
Benjamin.



(h) That is, all of Israel that was included under this tribe, signifying that the Lord's plagues would
pursue them from place to place until they were destroyed.
#BCV:Hosea 5:9
<h3><verse=Hosea 5:9>Hosea 5:9</verse></h3>



Ephraim shall be desolate in the day of rebuke: among the tribes of Israel have I made (i) known
that which shall surely be.



(i) By the success they will know that I have surely determined this.
#BCV:Hosea 5:10
<h3><verse=Hosea 5:10>Hosea 5:10</verse></h3>



The princes of Judah were like them that (k) remove the bound: [therefore] I will pour out my wrath
upon them like water.



(k) They have turned upside down all political order and all manner of religion.
#BCV:Hosea 5:11
<h3><verse=Hosea 5:11>Hosea 5:11</verse></h3>



Ephraim [is] oppressed [and] broken in judgment, because he willingly walked after the (l)
commandment.



(l) That is, after King Jeroboam's commandment, and did not rather follow God.
#BCV:Hosea 5:13
<h3><verse=Hosea 5:13>Hosea 5:13</verse></h3>



When Ephraim saw his sickness, and Judah [saw] his wound, then went Ephraim to (m) the Assyrian,
and sent to king (n) Jareb: yet could he not heal you, nor cure you of your wound.



(m) Instead of seeking for remedy from God's hand.



(n) Who was king of the Assyrians.

<h2>Hosea 6</h2>

#BCV:Hosea 6:1
<h3><verse=Hosea 6:1>Hosea 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=2210>Come, and let (a) us return unto the LORD: for he hath torn, and he will heal us; he hath smitten,
and he will bind us up.



(a) He shows the people that they ought to turn to the Lord, so that he might stop his plagues.
#BCV:Hosea 6:2
<h3><verse=Hosea 6:2>Hosea 6:2</verse></h3>



After two days will (b) he revive us: in the third day he will raise us up, and we shall live in his sight.



(b) Though he correct us from time to time, yet his help will not be far off, if we return to him.
#BCV:Hosea 6:4
<h3><verse=Hosea 6:4>Hosea 6:4</verse></h3>



O Ephraim, what shall I do unto thee? O Judah, what shall I do unto thee? for (c) your goodness [is]
as a morning cloud, and as the early dew it goeth away.



(c) You seem to have a certain holiness and repentance, but it is very sudden, and as a morning
cloud.
#BCV:Hosea 6:5
<h3><verse=Hosea 6:5>Hosea 6:5</verse></h3>



Therefore have I (d) hewed [them] by the prophets; I have slain them by the words of my mouth:
and thy (e) judgments [are as] the light [that] goeth forth.



(d) I have still laboured by my prophets, and as it were prepared you to bring you to correction, but
all was in vain: for my word was not food to feed them, but a sword to slay them.



(e) My doctrine which I taught you, was most evident.
#BCV:Hosea 6:6
<h3><verse=Hosea 6:6>Hosea 6:6</verse></h3>



For I desired (f) mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.



(f) He shows to what his doctrine was aimed at, that they should unite the obedience of God, and
the love of their neighbour, with outward sacrifices.
#BCV:Hosea 6:7
<h3><verse=Hosea 6:7>Hosea 6:7</verse></h3>



But they (g) like men have transgressed the covenant: there have they dealt treacherously against me.



(g) That is, like small and weak persons.
#BCV:Hosea 6:8
<h3><verse=Hosea 6:8>Hosea 6:8</verse></h3>


<page=2211>(h) Gilead [is] a city of them that work iniquity, [and is] polluted with blood.



(h) Which was the place where the priests dwelt, and which should have been best instructed in my
word.
#BCV:Hosea 6:11
<h3><verse=Hosea 6:11>Hosea 6:11</verse></h3>



Also, O Judah, he hath set an (i) harvest for thee, when I returned the captivity of my people.



(i) That is, imitates your idolatry, and has taken grafts of your trees.

<h2>Hosea 7</h2>

#BCV:Hosea 7:1
<h3><verse=Hosea 7:1>Hosea 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=2212>When I would have healed Israel, then the iniquity of Ephraim was discovered, and the wickedness
of Samaria: for they commit falsehood; and (a) the thief cometh in, [and] the troop of robbers
spoileth without.



(a) Meaning that there was no one type of vice among them, but that they were subject to all
wickedness, both secret and open.
#BCV:Hosea 7:3
<h3><verse=Hosea 7:3>Hosea 7:3</verse></h3>



They make the (b) king glad with their wickedness, and the princes with their lies.



(b) They esteem their wicked king Jeroboam above God, and seek how to flatter and please him.
#BCV:Hosea 7:4
<h3><verse=Hosea 7:4>Hosea 7:4</verse></h3>



They [are] all adulterers, as an (c) oven heated by the baker, [who] ceaseth from raising after he hath
kneaded the dough, until it be leavened.



(c) He compares the rage of the people to a burning oven which the baker heats, until his dough is
leavened and raised.
#BCV:Hosea 7:5
<h3><verse=Hosea 7:5>Hosea 7:5</verse></h3>



In the (d) day of our king the princes have made [him] sick with bottles of wine; he stretched out his
hand with scorners.



(d) They used all indulgence and excess in their feasts and solemnities, by which their king was
overcome with being fed too much, and brought into diseases, and who delighted in flatteries.
#BCV:Hosea 7:7
<h3><verse=Hosea 7:7>Hosea 7:7</verse></h3>



They are all hot as an oven, and have (e) devoured their judges; all their kings are fallen: [there is]
none among them that calleth unto me.



(e) By their doing God has deprived them of all good rulers.
#BCV:Hosea 7:8
<h3><verse=Hosea 7:8>Hosea 7:8</verse></h3>



Ephraim, he hath (f) mixed himself among the people; Ephraim is a cake not turned.

<page=2213>(f) That is, he counterfeited the religion of the Gentiles, yet is but as a cake baked on the one side,
and raw on the other, that is, neither thoroughly hot, nor thoroughly cold, but partly a Jew, and
partly a Gentile.
#BCV:Hosea 7:9
<h3><verse=Hosea 7:9>Hosea 7:9</verse></h3>



Strangers have devoured his strength, and he knoweth [it] not: yea, (g) gray hairs are here and there
upon him, yet he knoweth not.



(g) Which are a token of his manifold afflictions.
#BCV:Hosea 7:11
<h3><verse=Hosea 7:11>Hosea 7:11</verse></h3>



Ephraim also is like a silly dove without (h) heart: they call to Egypt, they go to Assyria.



(h) That is, without all judgment, as those that cannot tell whether it is better to cleave only to God,
or to seek the help of man.
#BCV:Hosea 7:12
<h3><verse=Hosea 7:12>Hosea 7:12</verse></h3>



When they shall go, I will spread my net upon them; I will bring them down as the fowls of the
heaven; I will chastise them, as their (i) congregation hath heard.



(i) According to my curses made to the whole congregation of Israel.
#BCV:Hosea 7:13
<h3><verse=Hosea 7:13>Hosea 7:13</verse></h3>



Woe unto them! for they have fled from me: destruction unto them! because they have transgressed
against me: though I have (k) redeemed them, yet they have spoken lies against me.



(k) That is, at different times redeemed them, and delivered them from death.
#BCV:Hosea 7:14
<h3><verse=Hosea 7:14>Hosea 7:14</verse></h3>



And they have not cried unto me with their heart, (l) when they howled upon their beds: (m) they
assemble themselves for corn and wine, [and] they rebel against me.



(l) When they were in affliction, and cried out in pain, they did not seek me for help.



(m) They only seek their own benefit and wealth, and care not for me their God.
#BCV:Hosea 7:16
<h3><verse=Hosea 7:16>Hosea 7:16</verse></h3>

<page=2214>They return, [but] not to the most High: they are like a deceitful bow: their princes shall fall by the
sword for the rage (n) of their tongue: this [shall be] their derision in the land of Egypt.



(n) Because they boast of their own strength, and do not care what they speak against me and my
servants; (<bcv=Psa 73:9>Psa 73:9</bcv>).

<h2>Hosea 8</h2>

#BCV:Hosea 8:1
<h3><verse=Hosea 8:1>Hosea 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=2215>[Set] the trumpet to thy (a) mouth. [He shall come] as an eagle against the house of the LORD,
because they have transgressed my covenant, and trespassed against my law.



(a) God encourages the Prophet to signify the speedy coming of the enemy against Israel, which was
once the people of God.
#BCV:Hosea 8:2
<h3><verse=Hosea 8:2>Hosea 8:2</verse></h3>



Israel shall (b) cry unto me, My God, we know thee.



(b) They will cry like hypocrites, but not from the heart, as their deeds declare.
#BCV:Hosea 8:4
<h3><verse=Hosea 8:4>Hosea 8:4</verse></h3>



They have set up (c) kings, but not by me: they have made princes, and I knew [it] not: of their silver
and their gold have they made them idols, that they may be cut off.



(c) That is, Jeroboam, by whom they sought their own liberty, and to obey my will.
#BCV:Hosea 8:5
<h3><verse=Hosea 8:5>Hosea 8:5</verse></h3>



Thy calf, O Samaria, hath cast [thee] off; mine anger is kindled against them: how long [will it be] ere
they attain to (d) innocency?



(d) That is, upright judgment and a godly life.
#BCV:Hosea 8:6
<h3><verse=Hosea 8:6>Hosea 8:6</verse></h3>




(e) For from Israel [was] it also: the workman made it; therefore it [is] not God: but the calf of
Samaria shall be broken in pieces.



(e) Meaning the calf was invented by themselves, and by their fathers in the wilderness.
#BCV:Hosea 8:7
<h3><verse=Hosea 8:7>Hosea 8:7</verse></h3>



For they have (f) sown the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind: it hath no stalk: the bud shall
yield no meal: if so be it yield, the strangers shall swallow it up.



(f) Showing that their religion has but a show, and in itself is but vanity.
#BCV:Hosea 8:9
<h3><verse=Hosea 8:9>Hosea 8:9</verse></h3>

#BCV:hos 8:9
<h3><verse=hos 8:9>hos 8:9</verse></h3>




(g) They never cease, but run to and fro to seek help.
#BCV:Hosea 8:10
<h3><verse=Hosea 8:10>Hosea 8:10</verse></h3>



Yea, though they have hired among the nations, now will I gather them, and they shall sorrow a little
for the (h) burden of the king of princes.



(h) That is, for the king and the princes will lay upon them: and by this means the Lord brings them
to repentance.
#BCV:Hosea 8:12
<h3><verse=Hosea 8:12>Hosea 8:12</verse></h3>



I have written to him the great things of my law, [but] they were counted as a (i) strange thing.



(i) In this way the idolaters consider the word of God as strange with regard to their own invention.
#BCV:Hosea 8:13
<h3><verse=Hosea 8:13>Hosea 8:13</verse></h3>



They sacrifice flesh [for] the sacrifices of mine offerings, and eat [it; but] the (k) LORD accepteth
them not; now will he remember their iniquity, and visit their sins: they shall return to Egypt.



(k) Saying that they offer it to the Lord, but he accepts no service which he himself has not
appointed.

<h2>Hosea 9</h2>

#BCV:Hosea 9:1
<h3><verse=Hosea 9:1>Hosea 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=2217>Rejoice not, O Israel, for joy, (a) as [other] people: for thou hast gone a whoring from thy God, thou
hast loved (b) a reward upon every cornfloor.



(a) For even though all other people should escape, yet you will be punished.



(b) You have committed idolatry in hope of reward, and to have your barns filled ((<bcv=Jer 44:17>Jer 44:17</bcv>)), as a
harlot that had rather live by playing the whore, than to be provided for by her own husband.
#BCV:Hosea 9:2
<h3><verse=Hosea 9:2>Hosea 9:2</verse></h3>




(c) The floor and the winepress shall not feed them, and the new wine shall fail in her.



(c) These outward things that you seek will be taken from you.
#BCV:Hosea 9:4
<h3><verse=Hosea 9:4>Hosea 9:4</verse></h3>



They shall not offer (d) wine [offerings] to the LORD, neither shall they be pleasing unto him: their
sacrifices [shall be] unto them as the bread of mourners; all that eat thereof shall be polluted: for
their bread (e) for their soul shall not come into the house of the LORD.



(d) All their doings both with regard to administration and religion, will be rejected as polluted
things.



(e) The meat offering which they offered for themselves.
#BCV:Hosea 9:5
<h3><verse=Hosea 9:5>Hosea 9:5</verse></h3>



What will ye do (f) in the solemn day, and in the day of the feast of the LORD?



(f) When the Lord will take away all the occasions of serving him, which will be the most grievous
part of your captivity, when you will see yourselves cut off from God.
#BCV:Hosea 9:6
<h3><verse=Hosea 9:6>Hosea 9:6</verse></h3>



For, lo, they are gone because of (g) destruction: Egypt shall gather them up, Memphis shall bury
them: the pleasant [places] for their silver, nettles shall possess them: thorns [shall be] in their
tabernacles.



(g) Even though they think to escape by fleeing the destruction that is at hand, yet they will be
destroyed in the place where they flee for help.
#BCV:Hosea 9:7
<h3><verse=Hosea 9:7>Hosea 9:7</verse></h3>

<page=2218>The days of visitation are come, the days of recompence are come; Israel shall know [it]: (h) the
prophet [is] a fool, the spiritual man [is] mad, for the multitude of thine iniquity, and the great hatred.



(h) Then they will know that they were deluded by those who claimed themselves to be their
prophets and spiritual men.
#BCV:Hosea 9:8
<h3><verse=Hosea 9:8>Hosea 9:8</verse></h3>



The watchman of Ephraim (i) [was] with my God: [but] the prophet [is] a snare of a fowler in all his
ways, [and] hatred in the house of his God.



(i) The Prophet's duty is to bring men to God, and not to be a snare to pull them from God.
#BCV:Hosea 9:9
<h3><verse=Hosea 9:9>Hosea 9:9</verse></h3>



They (k) have deeply corrupted [themselves], as in the days of Gibeah: [therefore] he will remember
their iniquity, he will visit their sins.

(k) This people is so rooted in their wickedness, that Gibeah, which was similar to Sodom, was never
more corrupt; <bcv=Jdg 19:22>(Jdg 19:22).</bcv>

#BCV:Hosea 9:10
<h3><verse=Hosea 9:10>Hosea 9:10</verse></h3>



I found Israel like (l) grapes in the wilderness; I saw your fathers as the firstripe in the fig tree at her
first time: [but] they went to Baalpeor, and separated themselves unto [that] shame; and [their]
abominations were according (m) as they loved.



(l) Meaning, that he esteemed them and delighted in them in this way.



(m) They were as abominable to me, as their lovers the idols.
#BCV:Hosea 9:11
<h3><verse=Hosea 9:11>Hosea 9:11</verse></h3>



[As for] Ephraim, their glory shall fly away like a bird, from the birth, (n) and from the womb, and
from the conception.



(n) Signifying that God would destroy their children by these different means, and so consume them
by little and little.
#BCV:Hosea 9:13
<h3><verse=Hosea 9:13>Hosea 9:13</verse></h3>

<page=2219>Ephraim, as I saw (o) Tyrus, [is] planted in a pleasant place: but Ephraim shall bring forth his
children to the murderer.



(o) As they kept tender plants in their houses in Tyrus to preserve them from the cold air of the sea,
so was Ephraim at the first to me: but now I will give him to the slaughter.
#BCV:Hosea 9:14
<h3><verse=Hosea 9:14>Hosea 9:14</verse></h3>



Give them, O LORD: what wilt thou give? give them a (p) miscarrying womb and dry breasts.



(p) The Prophet seeing the great plagues of God toward Ephraim, prays to God to make them
barren, rather than that this great slaughter should come upon their children.
#BCV:Hosea 9:15
<h3><verse=Hosea 9:15>Hosea 9:15</verse></h3>



All their wickedness [is] in (q) Gilgal: for there I hated them: for the wickedness of their doings I
will drive them out of mine house, I will love them no more: all their princes [are] revolters.



(q) The chief cause of their destruction is that they commit idolatry, and corrupt my religion in
Gilgal.

<h2>Hosea 10</h2>

#BCV:Hosea 10:1
<h3><verse=Hosea 10:1>Hosea 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=2220>Israel [is] an (a) empty vine, he bringeth forth fruit unto himself: according to the multitude of his
fruit he hath increased the altars; according to the (b) goodness of his land they have made goodly
images.



(a) Of which though the grapes were gathered, yet always as it gathered new strength it increased in
new wickedness, so that the correction which should have brought them to obedience, only
proclaimed their stubbornness.



(b) As they were rich and had abundance.
#BCV:Hosea 10:2
<h3><verse=Hosea 10:2>Hosea 10:2</verse></h3>



Their heart is (c) divided; now shall they be found faulty: he shall break down their altars, he shall
spoil their images.



(c) That is, from God, by serving their false gods.
#BCV:Hosea 10:3
<h3><verse=Hosea 10:3>Hosea 10:3</verse></h3>



For now they shall say, We have no (d) king, because we feared not the LORD; what then should a
king do to us?



(d) The day will come that God will take away their king, and then they will feel the fruit of their sins,
and how they trusted in him in vain; (<bcv=II Ki 17:6-7>Kg2 17:6-7</bcv>).
#BCV:Hosea 10:4
<h3><verse=Hosea 10:4>Hosea 10:4</verse></h3>



They have spoken words, swearing falsely in making (e) a covenant: thus (f) judgment springeth up
as hemlock in the furrows of the field.



(e) In promising to be faithful toward God.



(f) In this way their integrity and fidelity which they pretended, was nothing but bitterness and grief.
#BCV:Hosea 10:5
<h3><verse=Hosea 10:5>Hosea 10:5</verse></h3>



The inhabitants of Samaria shall (g) fear because of the calves of Bethaven: for the people thereof
shall mourn over it, and the (h) priests thereof [that] rejoiced on it, for the glory thereof, because it
is departed from it.



(g) When the calf will be carried away.

<page=2221>(h) These were certain idolatrous priests, who wore black apparel during their sacrifices, and cried
with a loud voice: which superstition Elijah derided, (<bcv=I Ki 18:27>Kg1 18:27</bcv>). See <bcv=2Ki 23:5>Kg2 23:5</bcv>

#BCV:Hosea 10:8
<h3><verse=Hosea 10:8>Hosea 10:8</verse></h3>



The high places also of (i) Aven, the sin of Israel, shall be destroyed: the thorn and the thistle shall
come up on their altars; and they shall say to the mountains, Cover us; and to the hills, Fall on us.



(i) This he speaks in contempt of Bethel. See<bcv=Hos 4:15> Hos 4:15</bcv>
#BCV:Hosea 10:9
<h3><verse=Hosea 10:9>Hosea 10:9</verse></h3>



O Israel, thou hast (k) sinned from the days of Gibeah: there they (l) stood: the battle in Gibeah
against the children of iniquity did not (m) overtake them.



(k) In those days you were as wicked as the Gibeonites, as God there partly declared: for your zeal
could not be good in executing God's judgments, seeing your own deeds were as wicked as theirs.



(l) That is, to fight, or, the Israelites remained in that stubbornness from that time.



(m) The Israelites were not moved by the example of the Gibeonites to cease from their sins.
#BCV:Hosea 10:10
<h3><verse=Hosea 10:10>Hosea 10:10</verse></h3>



[It is] in my desire (n) that I should chastise them; and the people shall be gathered against them,
when they shall bind themselves in their two (o) furrows.



(n) Because they are so desperate, I will delight to destroy them.



(o) That is, when they have gathered all their strength together.
#BCV:Hosea 10:11
<h3><verse=Hosea 10:11>Hosea 10:11</verse></h3>



And Ephraim [is as] an heifer [that is] taught, [and] loveth to (p) tread out [the corn]; but I passed
over upon her (q) fair neck: I will make Ephraim to ride; Judah shall plow, [and] Jacob shall break his
clods.



(p) In which is pleasure, whereas in plowing there is labour and pain.



(q) I will lay my yoke upon her fat neck.
#BCV:Hosea 10:12
<h3><verse=Hosea 10:12>Hosea 10:12</verse></h3>



Sow to yourselves in righteousness, reap in mercy; (r) break up your fallow ground: for [it is] time to
seek the LORD, till he come and rain righteousness upon you.

<page=2222>(r) See <bcv=Jer 4:3>Jer 4:3</bcv>
#BCV:Hosea 10:14
<h3><verse=Hosea 10:14>Hosea 10:14</verse></h3>



Therefore shall a tumult arise among thy people, and all thy fortresses shall be spoiled, as (s)
Shalman spoiled Betharbel in the day of battle: the mother was dashed in pieces upon [her] children.



(s) That is, Shalmaneser in the destruction of that city spared neither type nor age.

<h2>Hosea 11</h2>

#BCV:Hosea 11:1
<h3><verse=Hosea 11:1>Hosea 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=2223>When Israel (a) [was] a child, then I loved him, and called my son out of Egypt.



(a) While the Israelites were in Egypt, and did not provoke my wrath by their malice and ingratitude.
#BCV:Hosea 11:2
<h3><verse=Hosea 11:2>Hosea 11:2</verse></h3>



[As] they called them, so they (b) went from them: they sacrificed unto Baalim, and burned incense
to graven images.



(b) They rebelled and went a contrary way when the Prophets called them to repentance.
#BCV:Hosea 11:4
<h3><verse=Hosea 11:4>Hosea 11:4</verse></h3>



I drew them with cords (c) of a man, with bands of love: and I was to them as they that take off the
yoke on their jaws, and I laid meat unto them.



(c) That is, friendly, and not as beasts or slaves.
#BCV:Hosea 11:5
<h3><verse=Hosea 11:5>Hosea 11:5</verse></h3>



He shall not return into the land of Egypt, but the Assyrian shall be his (d) king, because they
refused to return.



(d) Seeing that they condemn all this kindness, they will be led captive into Assyria.
#BCV:Hosea 11:7
<h3><verse=Hosea 11:7>Hosea 11:7</verse></h3>



And my people are bent to backsliding from me: though (e) they called them to the most High, none
at all would exalt [him].



(e) That is, the Prophets.
#BCV:Hosea 11:8
<h3><verse=Hosea 11:8>Hosea 11:8</verse></h3>




(f) How shall I give thee up, Ephraim? [how] shall I deliver thee, Israel? how shall I make thee as (g)
Admah? [how] shall I set thee as Zeboim? mine heart is turned within me, (h) my repentings are
kindled together.



(f) God considers with himself, and that with a certain grief, how to punish them.



(g) Which were two of the cities that were destroyed with Sodom; (<bcv=Deu 29:23>Deu 29:23</bcv>).

<page=2224>(h) Meaning that his love with which he first loved them positioned him between doubt and
assurance in terms of what to do: and in this appears his Fatherly affection, that his mercy toward
his own will overcome his judgments, as he declares in the next verse.
#BCV:Hosea 11:9
<h3><verse=Hosea 11:9>Hosea 11:9</verse></h3>



I will not execute the fierceness of mine anger, I will not return to destroy Ephraim: for I [am] God,
and not man; the Holy One in the midst of thee: and I will not (i) enter into the city.



(i) To consume you, but will cause you to yield, and so have mercy on you: and this is meant of the
final number who will walk after the Lord.
#BCV:Hosea 11:11
<h3><verse=Hosea 11:11>Hosea 11:11</verse></h3>




(k) They shall tremble as a bird out of Egypt, and as a dove out of the land of Assyria: and I will
place them in their houses, saith the LORD.



(k) The Egyptians and the Assyrians will be afraid when the Lord maintains his people.
#BCV:Hosea 11:12
<h3><verse=Hosea 11:12>Hosea 11:12</verse></h3>



Ephraim compasseth me about with lies, and the house of Israel with deceit: but Judah yet ruleth
with (l) God, and is faithful with the saints.



(l) Governs their state according to God's word, and does not degenerate.

<h2>Hosea 12</h2>

#BCV:Hosea 12:1
<h3><verse=Hosea 12:1>Hosea 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=2225>Ephraim feedeth (a) on wind, and followeth after the east wind: he daily increaseth lies and
desolation; and they do make a covenant with the Assyrians, and (b) oil is carried into Egypt.



(a) That is, flatters himself with vain confidence.



(b) Meaning presents to get friendship.
#BCV:Hosea 12:2
<h3><verse=Hosea 12:2>Hosea 12:2</verse></h3>



The LORD hath also a controversy with (c) Judah, and will punish Jacob according to his ways;
according to his doings will he recompense him.



(c) Which in those points was similar to Ephraim, but not in idolatry.
#BCV:Hosea 12:3
<h3><verse=Hosea 12:3>Hosea 12:3</verse></h3>



He took his brother by the heel in the womb, and by his strength he had (d) power with God:



(d) Seeing that God in this way preferred Jacob their father, Judah's ingratitude was the more to be
abhorred.
#BCV:Hosea 12:4
<h3><verse=Hosea 12:4>Hosea 12:4</verse></h3>



Yea, he had (e) power over the angel, and prevailed: he wept, and made supplication unto him: (f) he
found him [in] Bethel, and there he spake with us;



(e) Read (<bcv=Gen 32:24-32>Gen 32:24-32</bcv>).



(f) God found Jacob as he lay sleeping in Bethel (<bcv=Gen 28:12>Gen 28:12</bcv>), and spoke with him there in such a way
that the fruit of that speech appertained to the whole body of the people, of which we are.
#BCV:Hosea 12:7
<h3><verse=Hosea 12:7>Hosea 12:7</verse></h3>



[He is] (g) a merchant, the balances of deceit [are] in his hand: he loveth to oppress.



(g) As for Ephraim, he is more like the wicked Canaanites than godly Abraham or Jacob.
#BCV:Hosea 12:8
<h3><verse=Hosea 12:8>Hosea 12:8</verse></h3>



And Ephraim said, Yet I am become rich, I have found me out substance: [in] all my labours they
shall find none iniquity in me (h) that [were] sin.

<page=2226>(h) Thus way the wicked measure God's favour by outward prosperity, and like hypocrites cannot
endure that any should reprove their doings.
#BCV:Hosea 12:9
<h3><verse=Hosea 12:9>Hosea 12:9</verse></h3>



And I [that am] the LORD thy God from the land of Egypt will yet make thee to dwell in
tabernacles, as in (i) the days of the solemn feast.



(i) Seeing you will not acknowledge my benefits, I will bring you again to dwell in tents, as in the
feast of the Tabernacles, which you now condemn.
#BCV:Hosea 12:11
<h3><verse=Hosea 12:11>Hosea 12:11</verse></h3>



[Is there] (k) iniquity [in] Gilead? surely they are vanity: they sacrifice bullocks in Gilgal; yea, their
altars [are] as heaps in the furrows of the fields.



(k) The people thought that no man dare have spoken against Gilead, that holy place, and yet the
Prophet says that all their religion was but vanity.
#BCV:Hosea 12:12
<h3><verse=Hosea 12:12>Hosea 12:12</verse></h3>




(l) And Jacob fled into the country of Syria, and Israel served for a wife, and for a wife he kept
[sheep].



(l) If you boast of your riches and nobility, you seem to reproach your father, who was a poor
fugitive and servant.
#BCV:Hosea 12:13
<h3><verse=Hosea 12:13>Hosea 12:13</verse></h3>



And by a (m) prophet the LORD brought Israel out of Egypt, and by a prophet was he preserved.



(m) Meaning Moses, by which appears that whatever they have, it comes from God's free goodness.

<h2>Hosea 13</h2>

#BCV:Hosea 13:1
<h3><verse=Hosea 13:1>Hosea 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=2227>When Ephraim spake (a) trembling, he (b) exalted himself in Israel; but when he offended in Baal,



(c) he died.



(a) He shows the excellency and authority that this tribe had above all the rest.



(b) He made a king of his tribe.



(c) The Ephraimites are not far from destruction, and have lost their authority.
#BCV:Hosea 13:2
<h3><verse=Hosea 13:2>Hosea 13:2</verse></h3>



And now they sin more and more, and have made them molten images of their silver, [and] idols
according to their own understanding, all of it the work of the craftsmen: they say of them, (d) Let
the men that sacrifice kiss the calves.



(d) "Let the men that sacrifice" or "while they sacrifice men". The false prophets persuaded the
idolaters to offer their children after the example of Abraham, and he shows how they would exhort
one another to the same, and to kiss and worship these calves which were their idols.
#BCV:Hosea 13:4
<h3><verse=Hosea 13:4>Hosea 13:4</verse></h3>



Yet I [am] the LORD thy God (e) from the land of Egypt, and thou shalt know no god but me: for
[there is] no saviour beside me.



(e) He calls them to repentance, and reproves their ingratitude.
#BCV:Hosea 13:9
<h3><verse=Hosea 13:9>Hosea 13:9</verse></h3>



O Israel, thou (f) hast destroyed thyself; but in me [is] thine help.



(f) Your destruction is certain, and my benefits toward you declare that it comes not from me:
therefore your own malice, idolatry, and vain confidence in men must necessarily be the cause of it.
#BCV:Hosea 13:10
<h3><verse=Hosea 13:10>Hosea 13:10</verse></h3>




(g) I will be thy king: where [is any other] that may save thee in all thy cities? and thy judges of
whom thou saidst, Give me a king and princes?



(g) I am all one; (<bcv=Jam 1:17>Jam 1:17</bcv>).
#BCV:Hosea 13:12
<h3><verse=Hosea 13:12>Hosea 13:12</verse></h3>

#BCV:hos 13:12
<h3><verse=hos 13:12>hos 13:12</verse></h3>




(h) It is surely laid up to be punished, as in (<bcv=Jer 17:1>Jer 17:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Hosea 13:13
<h3><verse=Hosea 13:13>Hosea 13:13</verse></h3>



The sorrows of a travailing woman shall come upon him: he [is] an unwise son; for he should not
stay long in [the place of] the (i) breaking forth of children.



(i) But would come out of the womb, that is out of these dangers in which he is, and not wait to be
suppressed.
#BCV:Hosea 13:14
<h3><verse=Hosea 13:14>Hosea 13:14</verse></h3>



I will ransom them from the power of the grave; I will redeem them from death: O (k) death, I will
be thy plagues; O grave, I will be thy destruction: (l) repentance shall be hid from mine eyes.



(k) Meaning that no power will resist God when he will deliver his own, but even in death he will
give them life.



(l) Because they will not turn to me, I will change my purpose.

<h2>Hosea 14</h2>

#BCV:Hosea 14:1
<h3><verse=Hosea 14:1>Hosea 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=2229>O Israel, (a) return unto the LORD thy God; for thou hast fallen by thine iniquity.



(a) He exhorts them to repentance to avoid all these plagues, exhorting them to declare by words
their obedience and repentance.
#BCV:Hosea 14:2
<h3><verse=Hosea 14:2>Hosea 14:2</verse></h3>



Take with you words, and turn to the LORD: say unto him, (b) Take away all iniquity, and receive [us]
graciously: so will we render the calves of our (c) lips.



(b) He shows them that they ought to confess their sins.



(c) Declaring that this is the true sacrifice that the faithful can offer, even thanks and praise; (Heb
13:15).
#BCV:Hosea 14:3
<h3><verse=Hosea 14:3>Hosea 14:3</verse></h3>



Asshur shall (d) not save us; we will not ride upon horses: neither will we say any more to the work
of our hands, [Ye are] our gods: for in thee the fatherless findeth mercy.



(d) We will forsake all vain confidence and pride.
#BCV:Hosea 14:4
<h3><verse=Hosea 14:4>Hosea 14:4</verse></h3>




(e) I will heal their backsliding, I will love them freely: for mine anger is turned away from him.



(e) He declares how ready God is to receive those that do repent.
#BCV:Hosea 14:7
<h3><verse=Hosea 14:7>Hosea 14:7</verse></h3>



They that dwell under his (f) shadow shall return; they shall revive [as] the corn, and grow as the
vine: the scent thereof [shall be] as the wine of Lebanon.



(f) Whoever unites themselves to this people will be blessed.
#BCV:Hosea 14:8
<h3><verse=Hosea 14:8>Hosea 14:8</verse></h3>



Ephraim [shall say], What have I to do any more with idols? I (g) have heard [him], and observed
him: I [am] like a green fir tree. From me is thy fruit found.

<page=2230>(g) God shows how prompt he is to hear his own when they repent, and to offer himself as a
protection and safeguard for them, as a most sufficient fruit and benefit.
#BCV:Hosea 14:9
<h3><verse=Hosea 14:9>Hosea 14:9</verse></h3>



Who [is] (h) wise, and he shall understand these [things]? prudent, and he shall know them? for the
ways of the LORD [are] right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein.



(h) Signifying that the true wisdom and knowledge consists in this, even to rest upon God.

<h1>Joel</h1>


<h2>Joel 1</h2>

#BCV:Joel 1:1
<h3><verse=Joel 1:1>Joel 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2231>The word of the LORD that came to Joel the son of Pethuel.



The Argument - The Prophet Joel first rebukes those of Judah, that being now punished with a
great plague of famine, still remain obstinate. Secondly, he threatens greater plagues, because they
grow daily to a more hardness of heart and rebellion against God in spite of his punishments.
Thirdly, he exhorts them to repentance, showing that it must be earnest, and proceed from the heart,
because they had grievously offended God. And in doing this, Joel promises that God will be
merciful, and not forget his covenant that he made with their fathers, but will send his Christ, who
will gather the scattered sheep, and restore them to life and liberty, even though they seem to be
dead.
#BCV:Joel 1:2
<h3><verse=Joel 1:2>Joel 1:2</verse></h3>



Hear this, ye (a) old men, and give ear, all ye inhabitants of the land. Hath (b) this been in your days,
or even in the days of your fathers?



(a) Signifying the princes, the priests, and the governors.



(b) He calls the Jews to the consideration of God's judgments, who had now plagued the fruits of
the ground for the space of four years, which was because of their sins, and to call them to
repentance.
#BCV:Joel 1:5
<h3><verse=Joel 1:5>Joel 1:5</verse></h3>



Awake, ye (c) drunkards, and weep; and howl, all ye drinkers of wine, because of the new wine; for
it is cut off from your mouth.



(c) Meaning, that the reason for their excess and drunkenness was taken away.
#BCV:Joel 1:6
<h3><verse=Joel 1:6>Joel 1:6</verse></h3>



For (d) a nation is come up upon my land, strong, and without number, whose teeth [are] the teeth
of a lion, and he hath the cheek teeth of a great lion.



(d) This was another plague with which God had punished them when he stirred up the Assyrians
against them.
#BCV:Joel 1:8
<h3><verse=Joel 1:8>Joel 1:8</verse></h3>

<page=2232>Lament like a virgin girded with sackcloth for the (e) husband of her youth.



(e) Mourn grievously as a woman who has lost her husband, to whom she has been married in her
youth.
#BCV:Joel 1:9
<h3><verse=Joel 1:9>Joel 1:9</verse></h3>



The meat offering and the drink offering is (f) cut off from the house of the LORD; the priests, the
LORD'S ministers, mourn.



(f) The signs of God's wrath appeared in his temple, in so much that God's service was discontinued.
#BCV:Joel 1:10
<h3><verse=Joel 1:10>Joel 1:10</verse></h3>



The field is wasted, the land mourneth; for the corn is wasted: (g) the new wine is dried up, the oil
languisheth.



(g) All comfort and substance for nourishment is taken away.
#BCV:Joel 1:13
<h3><verse=Joel 1:13>Joel 1:13</verse></h3>




(h) Gird yourselves, and lament, ye priests: howl, ye ministers of the altar: come, lie all night in
sackcloth, ye ministers of my God: for the meat offering and the drink offering is withholden from
the house of your God.



(h) He shows that the only means to avoid God's wrath, and to have all things restored, is true
repentance.
#BCV:Joel 1:15
<h3><verse=Joel 1:15>Joel 1:15</verse></h3>



Alas for the day! for the (i) day of the LORD [is] at hand, and as a destruction from the Almighty
shall it come.



(i) We see by these great plagues that utter destruction is at hand.
#BCV:Joel 1:20
<h3><verse=Joel 1:20>Joel 1:20</verse></h3>



The beasts of the field cry also unto thee: for the rivers of waters are dried up, and the (k) fire hath
devoured the pastures of the wilderness.



(k) That is, drought.

<h2>Joel 2</h2>

#BCV:Joel 2:1
<h3><verse=Joel 2:1>Joel 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2233>Blow ye (a) the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in my holy mountain: let all the inhabitants of
the land tremble: for the day of the LORD cometh, for [it is] nigh at hand;



(a) He shows the great judgments of God which are at hand, unless they repent.
#BCV:Joel 2:2
<h3><verse=Joel 2:2>Joel 2:2</verse></h3>



A (b) day of darkness and of gloominess, a day of clouds and of thick darkness, as the morning
spread upon the mountains: a (c) great people and a strong; there hath not been ever the like, neither
shall be any more after it, [even] to the years of many generations.



(b) Of affliction and trouble.



(c) Meaning, the Assyrians.
#BCV:Joel 2:3
<h3><verse=Joel 2:3>Joel 2:3</verse></h3>



A fire devoureth before them; and behind them a flame burneth: the land [is] as the garden of (d)
Eden before them, and behind them a desolate wilderness; yea, and nothing shall escape them.



(d) The enemy destroyed our plentiful country, wherever he went.
#BCV:Joel 2:6
<h3><verse=Joel 2:6>Joel 2:6</verse></h3>



Before their face the people shall be much pained: all faces (e) shall gather blackness.



(e) They will be pale and black because of fear, as in (<bcv=Nah 2:10>Nah 2:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Joel 2:8
<h3><verse=Joel 2:8>Joel 2:8</verse></h3>



Neither shall one (f) thrust another; they shall walk every one in his path: and [when] they fall upon
the sword, they shall not be wounded.



(f) For none will be able to resist them.
#BCV:Joel 2:10
<h3><verse=Joel 2:10>Joel 2:10</verse></h3>



The earth shall quake before them; the heavens shall tremble: the (g) sun and the moon shall be dark,
and the stars shall withdraw their shining:

<page=2234>(g) Read <bcv=Joel 2:31>(Joe 2:31;</bcv> <bcv=Isa 13:10>Isa 13:10;</bcv> <bcv=Eze 32:7>Eze 32:7;</bcv> <bcv=Joel 3:15>Joe 3:15;</bcv> <bcv=Mat 24:29>Mat 24:29)</bcv>

#BCV:Joel 2:11
<h3><verse=Joel 2:11>Joel 2:11</verse></h3>

And the LORD shall (h) utter his voice before his army: for his camp [is] very great: for [he is]
strong that executeth his word: for the day of the LORD [is] great and very terrible; and who can
abide it?



(h) The Lord will stir up the Assyrians to execute his judgments.
#BCV:Joel 2:13
<h3><verse=Joel 2:13>Joel 2:13</verse></h3>



And (i) rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: for he [is]
gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil.



(i) Mortify your affections and serve God with pureness of heart, and not with ceremonies.
#BCV:Joel 2:14
<h3><verse=Joel 2:14>Joel 2:14</verse></h3>



Who knoweth [if] he will (k) return and repent, and leave a blessing behind him; [even] a meat
offering and a drink offering unto the LORD your God?



(k) He speaks this to stir up their slothfulness, and not that he doubted of God's mercies, if they did
repent. For the way in which God repents, See<bcv=Jer 18:8> Jer 18:8</bcv>
#BCV:Joel 2:16
<h3><verse=Joel 2:16>Joel 2:16</verse></h3>



Gather the people, sanctify the congregation, assemble the elders, gather the (l) children, and those
that suck the breasts: let the bridegroom go forth of his chamber, and the bride out of her closet.



(l) That as all have sinned, so all may show forth signs of their repentance, so that men seeing the
children who are not free from God's wrath, might be the more deeply touched with the
consideration of their own sins.
#BCV:Joel 2:18
<h3><verse=Joel 2:18>Joel 2:18</verse></h3>



Then will the LORD be (m) jealous for his land, and pity his people.



(m) If they repent he shows that God will preserve and defend them with a most fervent affection.
#BCV:Joel 2:20
<h3><verse=Joel 2:20>Joel 2:20</verse></h3>

<page=2235>But I will remove far off from you the (n) northern [army], and will drive him into a land barren and
desolate, with his face toward the (o) east sea, and his hinder part toward the utmost sea, and his
stink shall come up, and his ill savour shall come up, because he hath done great things.



(n) That is, the Assyrians your enemies.



(o) Called the Salt Sea, or Persian Sea: meaning, that even though this army was so great that it filled
all from this sea to the Mediterranean Sea, yet he would scatter them.
#BCV:Joel 2:23
<h3><verse=Joel 2:23>Joel 2:23</verse></h3>



Be glad then, ye children of Zion, and rejoice in the LORD your God: for he hath given you the
former rain (p) moderately, and he will cause to come down for you the rain, the former rain, and
the latter rain in the first [month].



(p) That is, such as would come by just measure, and would be sent when God was reconciled with
them.
#BCV:Joel 2:28
<h3><verse=Joel 2:28>Joel 2:28</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass afterward, [that] I will pour (q) out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons
and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream (r) dreams, your young men shall see
visions:



(q) That is, in greater abundance, and more broadly than in times past. And this was fulfilled under
Christ, when God's graces and his Spirit under the Gospel were abundantly given to the Church; 
(<bcv=isa 44:3>Isa 44:3</bcv>; <bcv=Acts 2:17>Act 2:17</bcv>) (<bcv=John 7:38-39>Joh 7:38-39</bcv>).



(r) As they had visions and dreams in ancient times, so will they now have clearer revelations.
#BCV:Joel 2:30
<h3><verse=Joel 2:30>Joel 2:30</verse></h3>



And I will shew (s) wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke.



(s) He warns the faithful what terrible things would come, with the intent that they should not look
for continual quietness in this world: and yet in all these troubles he would preserve them.
#BCV:Joel 2:31
<h3><verse=Joel 2:31>Joel 2:31</verse></h3>



The (t) sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible
day of the LORD come.



(t) The order of nature will seem to be changed because of the horrible afflictions that will be in the
world; (<bcv=Isa 13:10>Isa 13:10</bcv>;<bcv=Ezek 32:7> Eze 32:7</bcv>;<bcv=Joel 3:15> Joe 3:15</bcv>;<bcv=Mat 24:29> Mat 24:29</bcv>).
#BCV:Joel 2:32
<h3><verse=Joel 2:32>Joel 2:32</verse></h3>

<page=2236>And it shall come to pass, [that] whosoever shall call (u) on the name of the LORD shall be
delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in
the (x) remnant whom the LORD shall call.



(u) God's judgments are for the destruction of the unbelievers, and to exhort the godly to call upon
the name of God, who will give them salvation.



(x) Meaning the Gentiles by this; (<bcv=Rom 10:13>Rom 10:13</bcv>).

<h2>Joel 3</h2>

#BCV:Joel 3:1
<h3><verse=Joel 3:1>Joel 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2237>For, behold, in (a) those days, and in that time, when I shall bring again the captivity of Judah and
Jerusalem,



(a) When I will deliver my Church, which consists of both Jews and Gentiles.
#BCV:Joel 3:2
<h3><verse=Joel 3:2>Joel 3:2</verse></h3>



I will also gather all nations, and will bring them down into the (b) valley of Jehoshaphat, and will
plead with them there for my people and [for] my heritage Israel, whom they have scattered among
the nations, and parted my land.



(b) It appears that he alludes to the great victory of Jehoshaphat, whom God used without man's
help to destroy the enemies, (<bcv=2Ch 20:20-26>Ch2 20:20-26</bcv>); also he is referring to this word Jehoshaphat, which
signifies pleading or judgment, because God would judge the enemies of his Church, as he did there.

#BCV:Joel 3:3
<h3><verse=Joel 3:3>Joel 3:3</verse></h3>



And they have cast lots for my people; and have (c) given a boy for an harlot, and sold a girl for wine,
that they might drink.



(c) That which the enemy received for the sale of my people, they bestowed upon harlots and drink.
#BCV:Joel 3:4
<h3><verse=Joel 3:4>Joel 3:4</verse></h3>



Yea, and (d) what have ye to do with me, O Tyre, and Zidon, and all the coasts of Palestine? will ye
render me (e) a recompence? and if ye recompense me, swiftly [and] speedily will I return your
recompence upon your own head;



(d) He takes the cause of his Church in hand against the enemy, as though the injury were done to
himself.



(e) Have I done you wrong, that you will render me the same?
#BCV:Joel 3:8
<h3><verse=Joel 3:8>Joel 3:8</verse></h3>



And I will sell your sons and your daughters into the hand of the children of Judah, and they (f)
shall sell them to the Sabeans, to a people far off: for the LORD hath spoken [it].



(f) For afterward God sold them by Nebuchadnezzar and Alexander the Great, because of the love
he had for his people, and by this they were comforted, as though they themselves had sold them.
#BCV:Joel 3:10
<h3><verse=Joel 3:10>Joel 3:10</verse></h3>


<page=2238>(g) Beat your plowshares into swords, and your pruninghooks into spears: let the weak say, I [am]
strong.



(g) When I will execute my judgments against my enemies, I will cause everyone to be ready, and to
prepare their weapons to destroy one another, for my Church's sake.
#BCV:Joel 3:13
<h3><verse=Joel 3:13>Joel 3:13</verse></h3>



Put ye in the (h) sickle, for the harvest is ripe: come, get you down; for the press is full, the fats
overflow; for their wickedness [is] great.



(h) In this way he will encourage the enemies when their wickedness is completely ripe to destroy
one another, which he calls the valley of God's judgment.
#BCV:Joel 3:16
<h3><verse=Joel 3:16>Joel 3:16</verse></h3>



The LORD also shall roar out of Zion, and utter his voice from Jerusalem; and the heavens and the
earth shall shake: but the LORD [will be] the (i) hope of his people, and the strength of the children
of Israel.



(i) God assures his own against all trouble, that when he destroys his enemies, his children will be
delivered.
#BCV:Joel 3:17
<h3><verse=Joel 3:17>Joel 3:17</verse></h3>



So shall ye know that I [am] the LORD your God dwelling in Zion, my holy mountain: then shall
Jerusalem be holy, and there shall no strangers pass (k) through her any more.



(k) The strangers will no longer destroy his Church: and if they do, it is the fault of the people, who
by their sins make the breach for the enemy.
#BCV:Joel 3:18
<h3><verse=Joel 3:18>Joel 3:18</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] the mountains shall (l) drop down new wine, and the hills
shall flow with milk, and all the rivers of Judah shall flow with waters, and a fountain shall come
forth of the house of the LORD, and shall water the valley of Shittim.



(l) He promises to his Church abundance of graces, See<bcv=Ezek 47:1> Eze 47:1</bcv>, which would water and comfort
the most barren places; (<bcv=Amos 9:13>Amo 9:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Joel 3:19
<h3><verse=Joel 3:19>Joel 3:19</verse></h3>

#BCV:joe 3:19
<h3><verse=joe 3:19>joe 3:19</verse></h3>



the children of Judah, because they have shed innocent blood in their land.



(m) The malicious enemies will have no part of these graces.
#BCV:Joel 3:21
<h3><verse=Joel 3:21>Joel 3:21</verse></h3>



For I will (n) cleanse their blood [that] I have not cleansed: for the LORD dwelleth in Zion.



(n) He had allowed his Church before this to lie in their filthiness, but now he promises to cleanse
them and to make them pure unto himself.

<h1>Amos</h1>


<h2>Amos 1</h2>

#BCV:Amos 1:1
<h3><verse=Amos 1:1>Amos 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2241>The words of Amos, who was among the herdmen of (a) Tekoa, which he saw concerning Israel in
the days of Uzziah king of Judah, and in the days of (b) Jeroboam the son of Joash king of Israel,
two years before the (c) earthquake.



The Argument - Among many other Prophets that God raised up to admonish the Israelites of his
plagues for their wickedness and idolatry, he stirred up Amos, who was a herdman or shepherd of a
poor town, and gave him both knowledge and constancy to reprove all estates and degrees, and to
make known God's horrible judgments against them, unless they repented in time. And he showed
them, that if God did not spare the other nations around them, who had lived as it were in
ignorance of God compared to them, but for their sins punished them, then they could look for
nothing, but a horrible destruction, unless they turned to the Lord in true repentance. And finally, he
comforts the godly with hope of the coming of the Messiah, by whom they would have perfect
deliverance and salvation.



(a) Which was a town five miles from Jerusalem in Judea, but he prophesied in Israel.



(b) In his days the kingdom of Israel flourished the most.



(c) Which as Josephus writes, was when Uzziah would have usurped the priest's office, and therefore
was smitten with leprosy.
#BCV:Amos 1:2
<h3><verse=Amos 1:2>Amos 1:2</verse></h3>



And he said, The LORD will roar from Zion, and utter his voice from Jerusalem; and the
habitations of the shepherds shall mourn, and the top (d) of Carmel shall wither.



(d) Whatever is fruitful and pleasant in Israel, will shortly perish.
#BCV:Amos 1:3
<h3><verse=Amos 1:3>Amos 1:3</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; For (e) three transgressions of Damascus, and for four, I will not turn away
[the punishment] thereof; because they have (f) threshed Gilead with threshing instruments of iron:



(e) He shows first that all the people round about would be destroyed for their manifold sins: which
are meant by three and four, which make seven, so that the Israelites would the more deeply
consider God's judgments toward them.

<page=2242>(f) If the Syrians will not be spared for committing this cruelty against one city, it is not possible that
Israel would escape punishment, which has committed so many and such grievous sins against God
and man.
#BCV:Amos 1:4
<h3><verse=Amos 1:4>Amos 1:4</verse></h3>



But I will send a fire into the house of Hazael, which shall devour the (g) palaces of Benhadad.



(g) The antiquity of their buildings will not avoid my judgments. See<bcv=Jer 49:27> Jer 49:27</bcv>
#BCV:Amos 1:5
<h3><verse=Amos 1:5>Amos 1:5</verse></h3>



I will break also the bar of Damascus, and cut off the inhabitant from the plain of Aven, and him
that holdeth the sceptre from the house of Eden: and the people of Syria shall go into captivity
unto (h) Kir, saith the LORD.



(h) Tiglath Pileser led the Assyrians captive, and brought them to Cyrene, which he here calls Kir.
#BCV:Amos 1:6
<h3><verse=Amos 1:6>Amos 1:6</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; For three transgressions of Gaza, and for four, I will not turn away [the
punishment] thereof; because they (i) carried away captive the whole captivity, to deliver [them] up to
Edom:



(i) They united themselves with the Edomites their enemies, who carried them away captive.
#BCV:Amos 1:9
<h3><verse=Amos 1:9>Amos 1:9</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; For three transgressions of Tyrus, and for four, I will not turn away [the
punishment] thereof; because they delivered up the whole captivity to Edom, and remembered not
the (k) brotherly covenant:



(k) For Esau (from whom came the Edomites) and Jacob were brothers, therefore they ought to
have admonished them by their brotherly friendship, and not to have provoked them to hatred.
#BCV:Amos 1:11
<h3><verse=Amos 1:11>Amos 1:11</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; For three transgressions of Edom, and for four, I will not turn away [the
punishment] thereof; because he did pursue his brother with the sword, and did cast off all pity, and
his anger did tear perpetually, and he kept his wrath (l) for ever:



(l) He was a continual enemy to him.
#BCV:Amos 1:13
<h3><verse=Amos 1:13>Amos 1:13</verse></h3>

#BCV:amo 1:13
<h3><verse=amo 1:13>amo 1:13</verse></h3>



turn away [the punishment] thereof; because they (m) have ripped up the women with child of
Gilead, that they might enlarge their border:



(m) He notes the great cruelty of the Ammonites, that did not spare the women, but most
tyrannously tormented them, and yet the Ammonites came from Lot, who was of the household of
Abraham.

<h2>Amos 2</h2>

#BCV:Amos 2:1
<h3><verse=Amos 2:1>Amos 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2244>Thus saith the LORD; For three transgressions of Moab, and for four, I will not turn away [the
punishment] thereof; because he burned the (a) bones of the king of Edom into lime:



(a) For the Moabites were so cruel against the King of Edom, that they burnt his bones after he was
dead: which declared their barbarous rage, that they would avenge themselves upon the dead.
#BCV:Amos 2:4
<h3><verse=Amos 2:4>Amos 2:4</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; For three transgressions of Judah, and for four, (b) I will not turn away [the
punishment] thereof; because they have despised the law of the LORD, and have not kept his
commandments, and their lies caused them to err, after the which their fathers have walked:



(b) Seeing that the Gentiles who did have as much knowledge were punished in this way, Judah
which was so fully instructed by the Lord's will, should not think that they would escape.
#BCV:Amos 2:6
<h3><verse=Amos 2:6>Amos 2:6</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; For three transgressions of (c) Israel, and for four, I will not turn away [the
punishment] thereof; because they sold the righteous for silver, and the poor for a pair of (d) shoes;



(c) If he did not spare Judah unto whom his promises were made, much more he will not spare this
degenerate kingdom.



(d) They esteemed most vile bribes more than men's lives.
#BCV:Amos 2:7
<h3><verse=Amos 2:7>Amos 2:7</verse></h3>



That pant after the (e) dust of the earth on the head of the poor, and turn aside the way of the
meek: and a man and his father will go in unto the [same] maid, to profane my holy name:



(e) When they have robbed him and thrown him to the ground, they open wide their mouths for his
life.
#BCV:Amos 2:8
<h3><verse=Amos 2:8>Amos 2:8</verse></h3>



And they lay [themselves] down upon clothes laid to pledge (f) by every altar, and they (g) drink the
wine of the condemned [in] the house of their god.



(f) Thinking that by these ceremonies, that is, by sacrificing, and by being near my altar, they may
excuse all of their other wickedness.

<page=2245>(g) They rob others and offer it to God, thinking that he will exempt them, when he is made
partaker of their iniquity.
#BCV:Amos 2:9
<h3><verse=Amos 2:9>Amos 2:9</verse></h3>



Yet destroyed I the (h) Amorite before them, whose height [was] like the height of the cedars, and
he [was] strong as the oaks; yet I destroyed his fruit from above, and his roots from beneath.



(h) The destruction of their enemies and his mercy toward them, should have caused their hearts to
melt because of love toward him.
#BCV:Amos 2:11
<h3><verse=Amos 2:11>Amos 2:11</verse></h3>



And I raised up of your sons for prophets, and of (i) your young men for Nazarites. [Is it] not even
thus, O ye children of Israel? saith the LORD.



(i) You condemned my benefits, and abused my graces, and craftily went about to stop the mouths
of my Prophets.
#BCV:Amos 2:13
<h3><verse=Amos 2:13>Amos 2:13</verse></h3>



Behold, I am (k) pressed under you, as a cart is pressed [that is] full of sheaves.



(k) You have wearied me with your sins; (<bcv=Isa 1:14>Isa 1:14</bcv>).
#BCV:Amos 2:14
<h3><verse=Amos 2:14>Amos 2:14</verse></h3>



Therefore the flight shall perish from the (l) swift, and the strong shall not strengthen his force,
neither shall the mighty deliver himself:



(l) None will be delivered by any means.

<h2>Amos 3</h2>

#BCV:Amos 3:2
<h3><verse=Amos 3:2>Amos 3:2</verse></h3>

<page=2246>You (a) only have I known of all the families of the earth: therefore I will punish you for all your
iniquities.



(a) I have only chosen you to be mine among all other people, and yet you have forsaken me.
#BCV:Amos 3:3
<h3><verse=Amos 3:3>Amos 3:3</verse></h3>



Can two walk together, except they be (b) agreed?



(b) By this the Prophet signifies that he speaks not of himself, but as God guides and moves him,
which is called the agreement between God and his Prophets.
#BCV:Amos 3:4
<h3><verse=Amos 3:4>Amos 3:4</verse></h3>



Will a (c) lion roar in the forest, when he hath no prey? will a young lion cry out of his den, if he
have taken nothing?



(c) Will God threaten by his Prophet, unless there is some great occasion?
#BCV:Amos 3:5
<h3><verse=Amos 3:5>Amos 3:5</verse></h3>




(d) Can a bird fall in a snare upon the earth, where no gin [is] for him? shall [one] take up a (e) snare
from the earth, and have taken nothing at all?



(d) Can anything come without God's providence?



(e) Will his threatenings be in vain?
#BCV:Amos 3:6
<h3><verse=Amos 3:6>Amos 3:6</verse></h3>




(f) Shall a trumpet be blown in the city, and the people not be afraid? shall there (g) be evil in a city,
and the LORD hath not done [it]?



(f) Will the Prophet's threaten God's judgments and the people not be afraid?



(g) Does any adversity come without God's appointment? (<bcv=Isa 45:7>Isa 45:7</bcv>)
#BCV:Amos 3:7
<h3><verse=Amos 3:7>Amos 3:7</verse></h3>



Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he (h) revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.

<page=2247>(h) God does not deal with the Israelites as he does with other people: for he always warns them
before of his plagues by his Prophets.
#BCV:Amos 3:8
<h3><verse=Amos 3:8>Amos 3:8</verse></h3>



The lion hath roared, who will not fear? the Lord GOD hath spoken, who can but (i) prophesy?



(i) Because the people always murmured against the Prophets, he shows that God's Spirit moved
them to speak as they did.
#BCV:Amos 3:9
<h3><verse=Amos 3:9>Amos 3:9</verse></h3>



Publish in the palaces at (k) Ashdod, and in the palaces in the land of Egypt, and say, Assemble
yourselves upon the mountains of Samaria, and behold the great tumults in the midst thereof, and
the oppressed in the midst thereof.



(k) He calls the strangers, such as the Philistines and Egyptians, to be witness of God's judgments
against the Israelites for their cruelty and oppression.
#BCV:Amos 3:10
<h3><verse=Amos 3:10>Amos 3:10</verse></h3>



For they know not to do right, saith the LORD, who store up violence and robbery (l) in their
palaces.



(l) The fruit of their cruelty and theft appears by their great riches, which they have in their houses.
#BCV:Amos 3:12
<h3><verse=Amos 3:12>Amos 3:12</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; As the shepherd taketh (m) out of the mouth of the lion two legs, or a piece
of an ear; so shall the children of Israel be taken out that dwell in Samaria in the corner of a bed,
and in (n) Damascus [in] a couch.



(m) When the lion has satisfied his hunger, the shepherd finds a leg or a piece of an ear, to show
that the sheep have been torn by his teeth.



(n) Where they thought to have had a sure stronghold, and to have been in safety.

<h2>Amos 4</h2>

#BCV:Amos 4:1
<h3><verse=Amos 4:1>Amos 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=2248>Hear this word, ye (a) kine of Bashan, that [are] in the mountain of Samaria, which oppress the poor,
which crush the needy, which say to their masters, (b) Bring, and let us drink.



(a) Thus he calls the princes and governors, who being overwhelmed with the great abundance of
God's benefits, forgot God, and therefore he calls them by the name of beasts and not of men.



(b) They encourage those who have authority over the people to oppress them, so that they may
have profit by it.
#BCV:Amos 4:2
<h3><verse=Amos 4:2>Amos 4:2</verse></h3>



The Lord GOD hath sworn by his holiness, that, lo, the days shall come upon you, that he will take
you away with (c) hooks, and your posterity with fishhooks.



(c) He alludes to fishers, who catch fish by hooks or thorns.
#BCV:Amos 4:4
<h3><verse=Amos 4:4>Amos 4:4</verse></h3>



Come to (d) Bethel, and transgress; at Gilgal multiply transgression; and bring your sacrifices every
morning, [and] your tithes after three (e) years:



(d) He speaks this in contempt of those who resorted to those places, thinking that their great
devotion and good intention was sufficient to have bound God to them.



(e) Read (<bcv=Deu 14:28>Deu 14:28</bcv>).
#BCV:Amos 4:5
<h3><verse=Amos 4:5>Amos 4:5</verse></h3>



And offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving (f) with leaven, and proclaim [and] publish the free offerings:
for this (g) liketh you, O ye children of Israel, saith the Lord GOD.



(f) As (<bcv=Lev 7:13>Lev 7:13</bcv>).



(g) You only delight in these outward ceremonies and care for nothing else.
#BCV:Amos 4:6
<h3><verse=Amos 4:6>Amos 4:6</verse></h3>



And I also have given you (h) cleanness of teeth in all your cities, and want of bread in all your
places: yet have ye not returned unto me, saith the LORD.



(h) That is, lack of bread and meat.
#BCV:Amos 4:7
<h3><verse=Amos 4:7>Amos 4:7</verse></h3>

<page=2249>And also I have withholden the rain from you, when [there were] yet three (i) months to the harvest:
and I caused it to rain upon one city, and caused it not to rain upon another city: one piece was
rained upon, and the piece whereupon it rained not withered.



(i) I stopped the rain until the fruits of the earth were destroyed with drought, and yet you would
not consider to return to me by repentance.
#BCV:Amos 4:8
<h3><verse=Amos 4:8>Amos 4:8</verse></h3>



So two [or] three cities wandered unto one city, to drink water; but they were (k) not satisfied: yet
have ye not returned unto me, saith the LORD.



(k) They could not find enough water where they had heard that it had rained.
#BCV:Amos 4:10
<h3><verse=Amos 4:10>Amos 4:10</verse></h3>



I have sent among you the pestilence after the manner of (l) Egypt: your young men have I slain
with the sword, and have taken away your horses; and I have made the stink of your camps to come
up unto your nostrils: yet have ye not returned unto me, saith the LORD.



(l) As I plagued the Egyptians; (<bcv=Exo 9:10>Exo 9:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Amos 4:11
<h3><verse=Amos 4:11>Amos 4:11</verse></h3>



I have overthrown [some] of you, as God overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah, and ye were as a (m)
firebrand plucked out of the burning: yet have ye not returned unto me, saith the LORD.



(m) You were almost all consumed, and a few of you were wonderfully preserved; (<bcv=II Ki 14:26>Kg2 14:26</bcv>).
#BCV:Amos 4:12
<h3><verse=Amos 4:12>Amos 4:12</verse></h3>



Therefore thus will I do unto thee, O Israel: [and] because I will do this unto thee, prepare to (n)
meet thy God, O Israel.



(n) Turn to him by repentance.

<h2>Amos 5</h2>

#BCV:Amos 5:2
<h3><verse=Amos 5:2>Amos 5:2</verse></h3>

<page=2250>The (a) virgin of Israel is fallen; she shall no more rise: she is forsaken upon her land; [there is] none
to raise her up.



(a) He so calls them, because they so boasted of themselves, or because they were given to
lustfulness and daintiness.
#BCV:Amos 5:3
<h3><verse=Amos 5:3>Amos 5:3</verse></h3>



For thus saith the Lord GOD; The city that went out [by] a thousand shall leave (b) an hundred, and
that which went forth [by] an hundred shall leave ten, to the house of Israel.



(b) Meaning, that the tenth part would hardly be saved.
#BCV:Amos 5:5
<h3><verse=Amos 5:5>Amos 5:5</verse></h3>



But seek not Bethel, nor enter into (c) Gilgal, and pass not to Beersheba: for Gilgal shall surely go
into captivity, and Bethel shall come to nought.



(c) In those places they worshipped new idols, which before served for the true honour of God:
therefore he says that these will not save them.
#BCV:Amos 5:7
<h3><verse=Amos 5:7>Amos 5:7</verse></h3>



Ye who turn (d) judgment to wormwood, and leave off righteousness in the earth,



(d) Instead of judgment and fairness they execute cruelty and oppression.
#BCV:Amos 5:8
<h3><verse=Amos 5:8>Amos 5:8</verse></h3>



[Seek him] that (e) maketh the seven stars and Orion, and turneth the shadow of death into the
morning, and maketh the day dark with night: that calleth for the waters of the sea, and poureth
them out upon the face of the earth: The LORD [is] his name:



(e) He describes the power of God; (<bcv=Job 9:9>Job 9:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Amos 5:10
<h3><verse=Amos 5:10>Amos 5:10</verse></h3>



They hate him (f) that rebuketh in the gate, and they abhor him that speaketh uprightly.



(f) They hate the Prophets, who reprove them in the open assemblies.
#BCV:Amos 5:11
<h3><verse=Amos 5:11>Amos 5:11</verse></h3>

<page=2251>Forasmuch therefore as your treading [is] upon the poor, and (g) ye take from him burdens of wheat:
ye have built houses of hewn stone, but ye shall not dwell in them; ye have planted pleasant
vineyards, but ye shall not drink wine of them.



(g) You take both his money and also his food, with which he should live.
#BCV:Amos 5:13
<h3><verse=Amos 5:13>Amos 5:13</verse></h3>



Therefore (h) the prudent shall keep silence in that time; for it [is] an evil time.



(h) God will so plague them that they will not allow the godly to open their mouths once to
admonish them of their faults.
#BCV:Amos 5:16
<h3><verse=Amos 5:16>Amos 5:16</verse></h3>



Therefore the LORD, the God of hosts, the Lord, saith thus; Wailing [shall be] in all streets; and
they shall say in all the highways, Alas! alas! and they shall call the (i) husbandman to mourning, and
such as are skilful of lamentation to wailing.



(i) So that people of all types will have reason to lament because of the great plagues.
#BCV:Amos 5:18
<h3><verse=Amos 5:18>Amos 5:18</verse></h3>



Woe unto you that (k) desire the day of the LORD! to what end [is] it for you? the day of the
LORD [is] darkness, and not light.



(k) He speaks in this way because the wicked and hypocrites said they were content to endure God's
judgments, whereas the godly tremble and fear; (<bcv=Jer 30:7>Jer 30:7</bcv>;<bcv=Joel 2:2> Joe 2:2</bcv>,<bcv=Joel 2:11> Joe 2:11</bcv>), (<bcv=Zep 1:15>Zep 1:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Amos 5:22
<h3><verse=Amos 5:22>Amos 5:22</verse></h3>



Though ye offer me burnt offerings and your meat offerings, (l) I will not accept [them]: neither will
I regard the peace offerings of your fat beasts.



(l) Because you have corrupted my true service, and remain obstinate in your vices; (<bcv=Isa 1:11>Isa 1:11</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 6:10> Jer 6:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Amos 5:24
<h3><verse=Amos 5:24>Amos 5:24</verse></h3>



But let judgment run down as (m) waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream.

<page=2252>(m) Do your duty to God, and to your neighbour, and so you will plentifully feel his grace, if you
show your abundant affections according to God's word.
#BCV:Amos 5:26
<h3><verse=Amos 5:26>Amos 5:26</verse></h3>



But ye have borne the tabernacle of your (n) Moloch and Chiun your images, the star of your god,
which ye made to yourselves.



(n) That idol which you esteemed as your king, and carried about as you did Chiun, in which images
you thought that there was a certain divinity.

<h2>Amos 6</h2>

#BCV:Amos 6:1
<h3><verse=Amos 6:1>Amos 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=2253>Woe to (a) them [that are] at ease in Zion, and trust in the mountain of Samaria, (b) [which are]
named chief of the nations, to whom the house of Israel came!



(a) The Prophet threatens the wealthy, who did not regard God's plagues, nor threatenings by his
Prophets.



(b) These two cities were famous from their first inhabitants the Canaanites: and seeing that before
they did not avail those that were born here, why should you think that they should save you who
were brought in to dwell in other men's possessions?
#BCV:Amos 6:2
<h3><verse=Amos 6:2>Amos 6:2</verse></h3>



Pass ye unto Calneh, and see; and from thence go ye to Hamath the great: then go down to Gath of
the Philistines: [be (c) they] better than these kingdoms? or their border greater than your border?



(c) If God has destroyed these excellent cities in three different kingdoms, that is Babylon, Syria, and
that of the Philistines, and has narrowed their wide borders more than yours yet are, do you think
that you are better, or that you will escape?
#BCV:Amos 6:3
<h3><verse=Amos 6:3>Amos 6:3</verse></h3>



Ye that put far away the (d) evil day, and cause the seat of violence to come near;



(d) You that continue still in your wickedness, and think that God's plagues are not at hand, but give
yourselves to all idleness, lustfulness, and disorder.
#BCV:Amos 6:5
<h3><verse=Amos 6:5>Amos 6:5</verse></h3>



That chant to the sound of the viol, [and] invent to themselves instruments of musick, like (e)
David;



(e) As he caused different types of instruments to be made to serve God's glory, so these did strive
to invent as many to serve their unrestrained affections and lusts.
#BCV:Amos 6:6
<h3><verse=Amos 6:6>Amos 6:6</verse></h3>



That drink wine in bowls, and anoint themselves with the chief ointments: but they are not (f)
grieved for the affliction of Joseph.



(f) They did not pity their brethren, of which many were now slain and carried away captive.
#BCV:Amos 6:7
<h3><verse=Amos 6:7>Amos 6:7</verse></h3>

<page=2254>Therefore now shall they go captive with the first that go captive, and the (g) banquet of them that
stretched themselves shall be removed.



(g) Some read "the sorrow of them that stretched themselves is at hand".
#BCV:Amos 6:8
<h3><verse=Amos 6:8>Amos 6:8</verse></h3>




(h) The Lord GOD hath sworn by himself, saith the LORD the God of hosts, I abhor (i) the
excellency of Jacob, and hate his palaces: therefore will I deliver up the city with all that is therein.



(h) Read (<bcv=Jer 51:14>Jer 51:14</bcv>).



(i) That is, the riches and pomp.
#BCV:Amos 6:10
<h3><verse=Amos 6:10>Amos 6:10</verse></h3>



And a man's uncle (k) shall take him up, and he that burneth him, to bring out the bones out of the
house, and shall say unto him that [is] by the (l) sides of the house, [Is there] yet [any] with thee? and
he shall say, No. Then shall he say, (m) Hold thy tongue: for we may not make mention of the name
of the LORD.



(k) The destruction will be so great, that almost none will be left to bury the dead: and therefore
they will burn them at home, to carry out the burnt ashes with more ease.



(l) That is, to some neighbour that dwells near by.



(m) They will be so astonished at this destruction, that they will not boast any more of the name of
God, and that they are his people: but they will be silent when they hear God's name, and abhor it,
as those that are desperate, or reprobate.
#BCV:Amos 6:12
<h3><verse=Amos 6:12>Amos 6:12</verse></h3>



Shall horses (n) run upon the rock? will [one] plow [there] with oxen? for ye have turned judgment
into gall, and the fruit of righteousness into (o) hemlock:



(n) He compares them to barren rocks, upon which it is in vain to bestow labour: showing that
God's benefits can have no place among them.



(o) Read (<bcv=Amos 5:7>Amo 5:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Amos 6:13
<h3><verse=Amos 6:13>Amos 6:13</verse></h3>

<page=2255>Ye which rejoice in a thing of nought, which say, Have we not taken to us (p) horns by our own
strength?



(p) That is, power and glory.
#BCV:Amos 6:14
<h3><verse=Amos 6:14>Amos 6:14</verse></h3>



But, behold, I will raise up against you a nation, O house of Israel, saith the LORD the God of
hosts; and they shall afflict you from the entering in of (q) Hemath unto the river of the wilderness.



(q) From one corner of the country to another.

<h2>Amos 7</h2>

#BCV:Amos 7:1
<h3><verse=Amos 7:1>Amos 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=2256>Thus hath the Lord GOD shewed unto me; and, behold, he formed (a) grasshoppers in the
beginning of the shooting up of the latter growth; and, lo, [it was] the latter growth (b) after the
king's mowings.



(a) To devour the land: and he alludes to the invading of the enemies.



(b) After the public commandment for mowing was given: or as some read, when the kings sheep
were shorn.
#BCV:Amos 7:3
<h3><verse=Amos 7:3>Amos 7:3</verse></h3>



The LORD (c) repented for this: It shall not be, saith the LORD.



(c) That is, stopped this plague at my prayer.
#BCV:Amos 7:4
<h3><verse=Amos 7:4>Amos 7:4</verse></h3>



Thus hath the Lord GOD shewed unto me: and, behold, the Lord GOD called to contend by fire,



(d) and it devoured the great deep, and did eat up a part.



(d) Meaning, that God's indignation was inflamed against the stubbornness of this people.
#BCV:Amos 7:7
<h3><verse=Amos 7:7>Amos 7:7</verse></h3>



Thus he shewed me: and, behold, the Lord stood upon a wall [made] by a plumbline, (e) with a
plumbline in his hand.



(e) Signifying that this would be the last measuring of the people, and that he would defer his
judgment no longer.
#BCV:Amos 7:10
<h3><verse=Amos 7:10>Amos 7:10</verse></h3>




(f) Then Amaziah the priest of Bethel sent to Jeroboam king of Israel, saying, Amos hath conspired
against thee in the midst of the house of Israel: the land is not able to bear all his words.



(f) That is, when Amos had prophesied that the king would be destroyed: for the wicked priest more
for hatred he had for the Prophet than for love toward the king, thought this accusation sufficient to
condemn him. However, only what the Prophet said could take place.
#BCV:Amos 7:12
<h3><verse=Amos 7:12>Amos 7:12</verse></h3>

<page=2257>Also (g) Amaziah said unto Amos, O thou seer, go, flee thee away into the land of Judah, and there
eat bread, and prophesy there:



(g) When this instrument of Satan was not able to accomplish his purpose by the king, he tried by
another practice, that was, to scare the Prophet, that he might depart, and not reprove their idolatry
there openly, and so hinder his profit.
#BCV:Amos 7:14
<h3><verse=Amos 7:14>Amos 7:14</verse></h3>



Then answered Amos, and said to Amaziah, I [was] no (h) prophet, neither [was] I a prophet's son;
but I [was] an herdman, and a gatherer of sycomore fruit:



(h) Thus he shows by his extraordinary calling, that God had given him a charge, which he must
necessarily execute.
#BCV:Amos 7:17
<h3><verse=Amos 7:17>Amos 7:17</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the LORD; (i) Thy wife shall be an harlot in the city, and thy sons and thy
daughters shall fall by the sword, and thy land shall be divided by line; and thou shalt die in a
polluted land: and Israel shall surely go into captivity forth of his land.



(i) In this way God used to approve the authority of his Prophets, by his plagues and judgments
against those who were malicious enemies as in (<bcv=Jer 28:12-17>Jer 28:12-17</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 29:21-26> Jer 29:21-26</bcv>), as this day he does against
those that persecute the ministers of his Gospel.

<h2>Amos 8</h2>

#BCV:Amos 8:2
<h3><verse=Amos 8:2>Amos 8:2</verse></h3>

<page=2258>And he said, Amos, what seest thou? And I said, A basket of (a) summer fruit. Then said the LORD
unto me, The end is come upon my people of Israel; I will not again pass by them any more.



(a) Which signified the ripeness of their sins, and the readiness of God's judgments.
#BCV:Amos 8:3
<h3><verse=Amos 8:3>Amos 8:3</verse></h3>



And the songs of the temple shall be howlings in that day, saith the Lord GOD: [there shall be]
many dead bodies in every place; they shall cast [them] forth with (b) silence.



(b) There will be none left to mourn for them.
#BCV:Amos 8:4
<h3><verse=Amos 8:4>Amos 8:4</verse></h3>



Hear this, O ye that (c) swallow up the needy, even to make the poor of the land to fail,



(c) By stopping the sale of food and necessary things which you have gotten into your own hands,
and so cause the poor to spend quickly that little that they have, and at length because of need to
become your slaves.
#BCV:Amos 8:5
<h3><verse=Amos 8:5>Amos 8:5</verse></h3>



Saying, When will the (d) new moon be gone, that we may sell corn? and the sabbath, that we may
set forth wheat, making (e) the ephah small, and the shekel great, and falsifying the balances by
deceit?



(d) When the scarcity had come they were so greedy for gain, that they thought the holy day to be a
hindrance to them.



(e) That is, the measure small, and the price great.
#BCV:Amos 8:8
<h3><verse=Amos 8:8>Amos 8:8</verse></h3>



Shall not the land tremble for this, and every one mourn that dwelleth therein? and it shall rise up
wholly as a flood; and it shall be cast out and (f) drowned, as [by] the flood of Egypt.



(f) That is, the inhabitants of the land will be drowned, as the Nile drowns many when it overflows.
#BCV:Amos 8:9
<h3><verse=Amos 8:9>Amos 8:9</verse></h3>

<page=2259>And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the Lord GOD, that I will cause the (g) sun to go down at
noon, and I will darken the earth in the clear day:



(g) In the midst of their prosperity, I will send great affliction.
#BCV:Amos 8:12
<h3><verse=Amos 8:12>Amos 8:12</verse></h3>



And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro
to seek the (h) word of the LORD, and shall not find [it].



(h) By which he shows that they will not only perish in body, but also in soul for lack of God's word,
which is the food of it.
#BCV:Amos 8:14
<h3><verse=Amos 8:14>Amos 8:14</verse></h3>



They that swear by the sin (i) of Samaria, and say, Thy god, O Dan, liveth; and, (k) The manner of
Beersheba liveth; even they shall fall, and never rise up again.



(i) For the idolaters used to swear by their idols, which here he calls their sin: and the papists yet
swear by theirs.



(k) That is, the common manner of worshipping, and the service or religion used there.

<h2>Amos 9</h2>

#BCV:Amos 9:1
<h3><verse=Amos 9:1>Amos 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=2260>I saw the Lord standing upon the (a) altar: and he said, Smite the lintel of the door, that the posts
may shake: and cut them in the (b) head, all of them; and I will slay the last of them with the sword:
he that fleeth of them shall not flee away, and he that escapeth of them shall not be delivered.



(a) Which was at Jerusalem: for he did not appear in the idolatrous places of Israel.



(b) Both the most important of them, and also the common people.
#BCV:Amos 9:3
<h3><verse=Amos 9:3>Amos 9:3</verse></h3>



And though they hide themselves in the top of Carmel, I will search and take them out thence; and
though they be hid from my sight in the bottom of the sea, thence will I command the (c) serpent,
and he shall bite them:



(c) He shows that God will declare himself as an enemy to them in all places, and that his elements
and all his creatures will be enemies to destroy them.
#BCV:Amos 9:6
<h3><verse=Amos 9:6>Amos 9:6</verse></h3>



[It is] he that buildeth his (d) stories in the heaven, and hath founded his troop in the earth; he that
calleth for the waters of the sea, and poureth them out upon the face of the earth: The LORD [is]
his name.



(d) He declares by the wonderful power of God, by the making of the heavens and the elements,
that it is not possible for man to escape his judgments when he punishes.
#BCV:Amos 9:7
<h3><verse=Amos 9:7>Amos 9:7</verse></h3>



[Are] ye not as children of the Ethiopians (e) unto me, O children of Israel? saith the LORD. Have
not I brought up Israel out of the land of Egypt? and the Philistines from (f) Caphtor, and the
Syrians from Kir?



(e) Am I more bound to you than to the Ethiopians, or other people? Yet I have bestowed upon you
greater benefits.



(f) Read (<bcv=Jer 47:4>Jer 47:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Amos 9:8
<h3><verse=Amos 9:8>Amos 9:8</verse></h3>

<page=2261>Behold, the eyes of the Lord GOD [are] upon the sinful kingdom, and I will destroy it from off the
face of the earth; saving that I will not utterly (g) destroy the house of Jacob, saith the LORD.



(g) Though he destroys the rebellious multitude, yet he will always reserve the remnant of his
Church to call upon his name.
#BCV:Amos 9:9
<h3><verse=Amos 9:9>Amos 9:9</verse></h3>



For, lo, I will command, and I will sift the house of Israel among all nations, like as [corn] is sifted in
a sieve, yet shall not the (h) least grain fall upon the earth.



(h) Meaning that none of his own would perish in his wrath.
#BCV:Amos 9:11
<h3><verse=Amos 9:11>Amos 9:11</verse></h3>



In that day will I raise up the (i) tabernacle of David that is fallen, and close up the breaches thereof;
and I will raise up his ruins, and I will build it as in the days of old:



(i) I will send the promised Messiah, and restore by him the spiritual Israel; (<bcv=Acts 15:16>Act 15:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Amos 9:12
<h3><verse=Amos 9:12>Amos 9:12</verse></h3>



That they may possess the remnant of (k) Edom, and of all the heathen, which are called by my
name, saith the LORD that doeth this.



(k) Meaning, the very enemies (as were the Edomites) and others would be united with the Jews in
one society and body, of which Christ would be the head.
#BCV:Amos 9:13
<h3><verse=Amos 9:13>Amos 9:13</verse></h3>



Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that the plowman shall (l) overtake the reaper, and the
treader of grapes him that soweth seed; and the mountains shall (m) drop sweet wine, and all the
hills shall melt.



(l) Signifying, that there will be great abundance of all things, so that when one type of fruit is ripe,
another would follow, and every one in order; (<bcv=Lev 26:5>Lev 26:5</bcv>).



(m) Read (<bcv=Joel 3:18>Joe 3:18</bcv>).
#BCV:Amos 9:14
<h3><verse=Amos 9:14>Amos 9:14</verse></h3>




(n) And I will bring again the captivity of my people of Israel, and they shall build the waste cities,
and inhabit [them]; and they shall plant vineyards, and drink the wine thereof; they shall also make
gardens, and eat the fruit of them.

<page=2262>(n) The accomplishment of this is under Christ, when they are planted in this Church, out of which
they can never be pulled, after they have once been grafted into it.

<h1>Obadiah</h1>


<h2>Obadiah 1</h2>

#BCV:Obadiah 1:1
<h3><verse=Obadiah 1:1>Obadiah 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2263>The vision of Obadiah. Thus saith the Lord GOD concerning Edom; (a) We have heard a rumour
from the LORD, and an ambassador is sent among the heathen, Arise ye, and (b) let us rise up
against her in battle.



The Argument - The Idumeans, who came from Esau, were mortal enemies always to the Israelites,
who came from Jacob, and therefore did not only vex them continually with various types of cruelty,
but also stirred up others to fight against them. Therefore when they were now in their greatest
prosperity, and did most triumph against Israel, which was in great affliction and misery, God raised
up his Prophet to comfort the Israelites. For God had now determined to destroy their adversaries,
who did so severely vex them, and to send them those who would deliver them, and set up the
kingdom of the Messiah which he had promised.



(a) God has certainly revealed to his prophets, that he will raise up the heathen to destroy the
Edomites, concerning which the rumour is now proclaimed; (<bcv=Jer 49:14>Jer 49:14</bcv>).



(b) Thus the heathen encourage themselves to rise against Edom.
#BCV:Obadiah 1:3
<h3><verse=Obadiah 1:3>Obadiah 1:3</verse></h3>



The (c) pride of thine heart hath deceived thee, thou that dwellest in the clefts of the rock, whose
habitation [is] high; that saith in his heart, Who shall bring me down to the ground?



(c) Which despises all others in respect of yourself, and yet you are but a handful in comparison with
others, and you are shut up among the hills as separate from the rest of the world.
#BCV:Obadiah 1:5
<h3><verse=Obadiah 1:5>Obadiah 1:5</verse></h3>




(d) If thieves came to thee, if robbers by night, (how art thou cut off!) would they not have stolen
till they had enough? if the grapegatherers came to thee, would they not leave [some] grapes?



(d) God will so destroy them that he will leave none, even though thieves when they come take but
until they have enough, and they that gather grapes always leave some behind them. See<bcv=Jer 49:9> Jer 49:9</bcv>
#BCV:Obadiah 1:7
<h3><verse=Obadiah 1:7>Obadiah 1:7</verse></h3>

<page=2264>All the men of thy confederacy (e) have brought thee [even] to the border: the men that were at
peace with thee have deceived thee, [and] prevailed against thee; [they that eat] thy (f) bread have laid
a wound under thee: [there is] none understanding in him.



(e) Those in whom you trusted to have help and friendship, will be your enemies and destroy you.



(f) That is, your familiar friends and guests have by secret practices destroyed you.
#BCV:Obadiah 1:10
<h3><verse=Obadiah 1:10>Obadiah 1:10</verse></h3>



For [thy] violence against thy (g) brother Jacob shame shall cover thee, and thou shalt be cut off for
ever.



(g) He shows the reason why the Edomites were so severely punished: that is, because they were
enemies to his Church, whom he now comforts by punishing their enemies.
#BCV:Obadiah 1:11
<h3><verse=Obadiah 1:11>Obadiah 1:11</verse></h3>



In the day that thou stoodest (h) on the other side, in the day that the strangers carried away captive
his forces, and foreigners entered into his gates, and cast lots upon Jerusalem, even thou [wast] as
one of them.



(h) When Nebuchadnezzar came against Jerusalem, you joined with him, and had part of the spoil,
and so rejoiced when my people (that is, your brother), were afflicted, whereas you should have
pitied and helped your brother.
#BCV:Obadiah 1:12
<h3><verse=Obadiah 1:12>Obadiah 1:12</verse></h3>



But thou shouldest not have looked on the day of thy brother in the day that he became (i) a
stranger; neither shouldest thou have rejoiced over the children of Judah in the day of their
destruction; neither shouldest thou have spoken proudly in the day of distress.



(i) When the Lord deprived them of their former dignity, and delivered them to be carried into
captivity.
#BCV:Obadiah 1:15
<h3><verse=Obadiah 1:15>Obadiah 1:15</verse></h3>



For the day (k) of the LORD [is] near upon all the heathen: as thou hast done, it shall be done unto
thee: thy reward shall return upon thine own head.



(k) When he will summon all the heathen, and send them to destroy you.
#BCV:Obadiah 1:16
<h3><verse=Obadiah 1:16>Obadiah 1:16</verse></h3>

<page=2265>For as ye have (l) drunk upon my holy mountain, [so] shall all the heathen drink continually, yea, they
shall drink, and they shall swallow down, and they shall be (m) as though they had not been.



(l) That is, rejoiced and triumphed.



(m) The Edomites will be utterly destroyed, and yet in spite of all the enemies I will reserve my
Church and restore it.
#BCV:Obadiah 1:18
<h3><verse=Obadiah 1:18>Obadiah 1:18</verse></h3>



And the house of Jacob shall be (n) a fire, and the house of Joseph a flame, and the house of Esau
for stubble, and they shall kindle in them, and devour them; and there shall not be [any] remaining
of the house of Esau; for the LORD hath spoken [it].



(n) God attributes this power to consume his enemies to his Church, which power properly belongs
only to himself; (<bcv=Isa 10:17>Isa 10:17</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 4:24> Deu 4:24</bcv>;<bcv=Heb 12:29> Heb 12:29</bcv>).
#BCV:Obadiah 1:19
<h3><verse=Obadiah 1:19>Obadiah 1:19</verse></h3>



And [they of] the south shall possess the (o) mount of Esau; and [they of] the plain the Philistines:
and they shall possess the fields of Ephraim, and the fields of Samaria: and Benjamin [shall possess]
Gilead.



(o) He describes how the Church will be enlarged and have great possessions: but this is mainly
accomplished under Christ, when that faithful are made heirs and lords of all things by him who is
their head.
#BCV:Obadiah 1:20
<h3><verse=Obadiah 1:20>Obadiah 1:20</verse></h3>



And the captivity of this host of the children of Israel [shall possess] that of the (p) Canaanites,
[even] unto Zarephath; and the captivity of Jerusalem, which [is] in Sepharad, shall possess the cities
of the south.



(p) By the Canaanites, the Jews mean the Dutchmen, and by Zarephath, France, and by Sepharad,
Spain.
#BCV:Obadiah 1:21
<h3><verse=Obadiah 1:21>Obadiah 1:21</verse></h3>



And (q) saviours shall come up on mount Zion to judge the mount of Esau; and the kingdom shall
be the LORD'S.



(q) Meaning that God will raise up in his Church those who will rule and govern for the defence of
it, and for the destruction of his enemies under the Messiah, whom the Prophet here calls the Lord
and head of this kingdom.

<h1>Jonah</h1>


<h2>Jonah 1</h2>

#BCV:Jonah 1:1
<h3><verse=Jonah 1:1>Jonah 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2267>Now the word of the LORD came (a) unto Jonah the son of Amittai, saying,


The Argument - When Jonah had long prophesied in Israel and had little profited, God gave him
specific charge to go and denounce his judgments against Nineveh, the chief city of the Assyrians,
because he had appointed that those who were of the heathen, should convert by the mighty power
of his word. And this was so that within three day's preaching, Israel might see how horribly they
had provoked God's wrath, who for the space of so many years, had not converted to the Lord, for
so many prophets and such diligent preaching. He prophesied under Jonah, and Jeroboam; <bcv=2Ki 14:25>(Kg2 14:25).</bcv>



(a) After he had preached a long time in Israel: and so Ezekiel, after he had prophesied in Judah for
a time, had visions in Babylon; (<bcv=Ezek 1:1>Eze 1:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Jonah 1:2
<h3><verse=Jonah 1:2>Jonah 1:2</verse></h3>



Arise, go to (b) Nineveh, that (c) great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness is come up before
me.




(b) For seeing the great obstipation of the Israelites, he sent his Prophet to the Gentiles, that they
might provoke them to repentance, or at least make them inexcusable: for Nineveh was the chief
city of the Assyrians.



(c) For as authors write, it contained in circuit about forty-eight miles, and had 1500 towers, and at
this time there were 120,000 children in it; (<bcv=Jon 4:11>Jon 4:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Jonah 1:3
<h3><verse=Jonah 1:3>Jonah 1:3</verse></h3>



But Jonah rose up to (d) flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the LORD, and went down to (e)
Joppa; and he found a ship going to Tarshish: so he paid the fare thereof, and went down into it, to
go with them unto Tarshish from the (f) presence of the LORD.



(d) By which he declares his weakness, that would not promptly follow the Lord's calling, but gave
place to his own reason, which persuaded him that he would not profit these people at all, seeing he
had done such little good among his own people; (<bcv=Jon 4:2>Jon 4:2</bcv>).



(e) Which was the haven, and port to take shipping there, also called Joppa.



(f) From that vocation to which God had called him, and in which he would have assisted him.
#BCV:Jonah 1:5
<h3><verse=Jonah 1:5>Jonah 1:5</verse></h3>

<page=2268>Then the mariners were afraid, and cried every man unto his god, and cast forth the wares that [were]
in the ship into the sea, to lighten [it] of them. But Jonah was gone down (g) into the sides of the
ship; and he lay, and was fast asleep.



(g) As one that would have cast off this care and concern by seeking rest and quietness.
#BCV:Jonah 1:6
<h3><verse=Jonah 1:6>Jonah 1:6</verse></h3>



So the shipmaster came to him, and said unto him, What meanest thou, O sleeper? arise, call upon
thy (h) God, if so be that God will think upon us, that we perish not.



(h) As they had called on their idols, which declares that idolaters have no rest nor certainty, but in
their troubles seek what they do not even know.
#BCV:Jonah 1:7
<h3><verse=Jonah 1:7>Jonah 1:7</verse></h3>



And they said every one to his fellow, Come, and let us cast (i) lots, that we may know for whose
cause this evil [is] upon us. So they cast lots, and the lot fell upon Jonah.



(i) Which declares that the matter was very extreme and in doubt, which was God's way of getting
them to test for the cause: and this may not be done except in matters of great importance.
#BCV:Jonah 1:14
<h3><verse=Jonah 1:14>Jonah 1:14</verse></h3>



Wherefore they cried unto the LORD, and said, (k) We beseech thee, O LORD, we beseech thee, let
us not perish for this man's life, and lay not upon us innocent blood: for thou, O LORD, hast done
as it pleased thee.



(k) This declares that the very wicked in their time of need flee to God for help, and also that they
are touched with a certain fear of shedding man's blood, whereas they know no manifest sign of
wickedness.
#BCV:Jonah 1:16
<h3><verse=Jonah 1:16>Jonah 1:16</verse></h3>



Then the men (l) feared the LORD exceedingly, and offered a sacrifice unto the LORD, and made
vows.



(l) They were touched with a certain repentance of their past life, and began to worship the true
God by whom they saw themselves as wonderfully delivered. But this was done for fear, and not
from a pure heart and affection, neither according to God's word.
#BCV:Jonah 1:17
<h3><verse=Jonah 1:17>Jonah 1:17</verse></h3>

#BCV:jon 1:17
<h3><verse=jon 1:17>jon 1:17</verse></h3>



the fish three days and three nights.



(m) Thus the Lord would chastise his Prophet with a most terrible spectacle of death, and by this
also strengthened and encouraged him of his favour and support in this duty which was
commanded him.

<h2>Jonah 2</h2>

#BCV:Jonah 2:1
<h3><verse=Jonah 2:1>Jonah 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2270>Then Jonah prayed unto the LORD his God (a) out of the fish's belly,



(a) Being now swallowed up by death, and seeing no remedy to escape, his faith broke out to the
Lord, knowing that out of this very hell he was able to deliver him.
#BCV:Jonah 2:2
<h3><verse=Jonah 2:2>Jonah 2:2</verse></h3>



And said, I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the LORD, and he heard me; out of the belly (b)
of hell cried I, [and] thou heardest my voice.



(b) For he was now in the fishes belly as in a grave or place of darkness.
#BCV:Jonah 2:4
<h3><verse=Jonah 2:4>Jonah 2:4</verse></h3>



Then I said, I am (c) cast out of thy sight; yet I will look again toward thy holy temple.



(c) This declared what his prayer was, and how he laboured between hope and despair, considering
the neglect of his vocation, and God's judgments for it: but yet in the end faith gained the victory.
#BCV:Jonah 2:6
<h3><verse=Jonah 2:6>Jonah 2:6</verse></h3>



I went down to the bottoms of the mountains; the earth with her bars [was] about me for ever: yet
hast thou brought up my (d) life from corruption, O LORD my God.



(d) You have delivered me from the belly of the fish and all these dangers, as it were raising me from
death to life.
#BCV:Jonah 2:8
<h3><verse=Jonah 2:8>Jonah 2:8</verse></h3>



They that observe lying (e) vanities forsake their own (f) mercy.



(e) Those that depend upon anything except on God alone.



(f) They refuse their own felicity, and that goodness which they would otherwise receive from God.

<h2>Jonah 3</h2>

#BCV:Jonah 3:1
<h3><verse=Jonah 3:1>Jonah 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2271>And the word of the LORD came unto (a) Jonah the second time, saying,



(a) This is a great declaration of God's mercy, that he receives him again, and sends him forth as his
Prophet, who had before shown such great weakness.
#BCV:Jonah 3:3
<h3><verse=Jonah 3:3>Jonah 3:3</verse></h3>



So Jonah arose, and went unto Nineveh, according to the word of the LORD. Now Nineveh was an
exceeding (b) great city of three days' journey.



(b) See<bcv=Jon 1:2> Jon 1:2</bcv>
#BCV:Jonah 3:4
<h3><verse=Jonah 3:4>Jonah 3:4</verse></h3>



And Jonah began to enter into the city a day's (c) journey, and he cried, and said, Yet forty days, and
Nineveh shall be overthrown.



(c) He went forward one day in the city and preached, and so he continued until the city was
converted.
#BCV:Jonah 3:5
<h3><verse=Jonah 3:5>Jonah 3:5</verse></h3>



So the people of Nineveh (d) believed God, and proclaimed a fast, and put on sackcloth, from the
greatest of them even to the least of them.



(d) For he declared that he was a Prophet sent to them from God, to make known his judgments
against them.
#BCV:Jonah 3:7
<h3><verse=Jonah 3:7>Jonah 3:7</verse></h3>



And he caused [it] to be proclaimed and published through Nineveh by the decree of the king and
his nobles, saying, Let neither man nor (e) beast, herd nor flock, taste any thing: let them not feed,
nor drink water:



(e) Not that the dumb beasts had sinned or could repent, but that by their example man might be
astonished, considering that for his sin the anger of God hung over all creatures.
#BCV:Jonah 3:8
<h3><verse=Jonah 3:8>Jonah 3:8</verse></h3>

<page=2272>But let man and beast be covered with sackcloth, and (f) cry mightily unto God: yea, let them turn
every one from his evil way, and from the violence that [is] in their hands.



(f) He exhorted that the men should earnestly call to God for mercy.
#BCV:Jonah 3:9
<h3><verse=Jonah 3:9>Jonah 3:9</verse></h3>




(g) Who can tell [if] God will turn and repent, and turn away from his fierce anger, that we perish
not?



(g) For partly from the threatening of the prophet, and partly from his own conscience, he doubted
whether God would show them mercy.
#BCV:Jonah 3:10
<h3><verse=Jonah 3:10>Jonah 3:10</verse></h3>



And God saw their (h) works, that they turned from their evil way; and (i) God repented of the evil,
that he had said that he would do unto them; and he did [it] not.



(h) That is, the fruits of their repentance, which proceeded from faith, which God had planted by
the ministry of his Prophet.



(i) See<bcv=Jer 18:8> Jer 18:8</bcv>

<h2>Jonah 4</h2>

#BCV:Jonah 4:1
<h3><verse=Jonah 4:1>Jonah 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=2273>But it displeased (a) Jonah exceedingly, and he was very angry.



(a) Because by this he would be taken as a false prophet, and so the name of God, which he
preached, would be blasphemed.
#BCV:Jonah 4:2
<h3><verse=Jonah 4:2>Jonah 4:2</verse></h3>



And he prayed unto the LORD, and said, I pray thee, O LORD, [was] not this my saying, when I
was yet in my country? Therefore I fled before unto (b) Tarshish: for I knew that thou [art] a
gracious God, and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repentest thee of the evil.



(b) Read (<bcv=Jon 1:3>Jon 1:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Jonah 4:3
<h3><verse=Jonah 4:3>Jonah 4:3</verse></h3>



Therefore now, O LORD, take, I beseech thee, my life (c) from me; for [it is] better for me to die
than to live.



(c) Thus he prayed from grief, fearing that God's name by this forgiveness might be blasphemed, as
though he sent his Prophets forth to make known his judgments in vain.
#BCV:Jonah 4:4
<h3><verse=Jonah 4:4>Jonah 4:4</verse></h3>



Then said the LORD, Doest thou well to be (d) angry?



(d) Will you judge when I do things for my glory, and when I do not?
#BCV:Jonah 4:5
<h3><verse=Jonah 4:5>Jonah 4:5</verse></h3>



So Jonah went out of the city, and sat on the east side of the city, and there made him a booth, and
sat under it in the shadow, (e) till he might see what would become of the city.



(e) For he doubted as yet whether God would show them mercy or not, and therefore after forty
days he departed out of the city, to see what God would do.
#BCV:Jonah 4:6
<h3><verse=Jonah 4:6>Jonah 4:6</verse></h3>



And the LORD God prepared a (f) gourd, and made [it] to come up over Jonah, that it might be a
shadow over his head, to deliver him from his grief. So Jonah was exceeding glad of the gourd.

<page=2274>(f) Which was a further means to cover him from the heat of the sun, as he remained in his booth.
#BCV:Jonah 4:9
<h3><verse=Jonah 4:9>Jonah 4:9</verse></h3>



And God said to Jonah, Doest thou well to be angry for the gourd? And he said, I do well to be (g)
angry, [even] unto death.



(g) This declares the great inconveniences into which God's servants fall when they give place to
their own affections, and do not in all things willingly submit themselves to God.
#BCV:Jonah 4:11
<h3><verse=Jonah 4:11>Jonah 4:11</verse></h3>



And should (h) not I spare Nineveh, that great city, wherein are more than sixscore thousand
persons that (i) cannot discern between their right hand and their left hand; and [also] much cattle?



(h) Thus God mercifully reproves him who would pity himself and this gourd, and yet would keep
God from showing his compassion to so many thousand people.



(i) Meaning that they were children and infants.

<h1>Micah</h1>


<h2>Micah 1</h2>

#BCV:Micah 1:1
<h3><verse=Micah 1:1>Micah 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2275>The word of the LORD that came to Micah the (a) Morasthite in the days of Jotham, Ahaz, [and]
Hezekiah, kings of Judah, which he saw concerning Samaria and Jerusalem.



The Argument - Micah the prophet of the tribe of Judah served in the work of the Lord concerning
Judah and Israel at least thirty years: during which time Isaiah prophesied. He declares the
destruction first of the one kingdom, and then of the other, because of their manifold wickedness,
but chiefly because of their idolatry. And to this end he notes the wickedness of the people, the
cruelty of the princes and governors, and the allowing of the false prophets, and the delighting in
them. Then he sets forth the coming of Christ, his kingdom, and the felicity of it. This Prophet was
not that Micah who resisted Ahab and all his false prophets, (<bcv=I Ki 22:8>Kg1 22:8</bcv>) but another with the same
name.



(a) Born in Mareshah, a city of Judah.
#BCV:Micah 1:2
<h3><verse=Micah 1:2>Micah 1:2</verse></h3>



Hear, (b) all ye people; hearken, O earth, and all that therein is: and let the Lord GOD be witness
against you, the Lord from his holy temple.



(b) Because of the malice and obstinacy of the people, whom he had so often exhorted to
repentance, he summons them to God's judgments, taking all creatures, and God himself as witness,
that the preaching of the Prophets, which they have abused, will be avenged.
#BCV:Micah 1:3
<h3><verse=Micah 1:3>Micah 1:3</verse></h3>



For, behold, the LORD cometh forth out of his place, and will come (c) down, and tread upon the
high places of the earth.



(c) Meaning by this that God will come to judgment against the strong cities and strongholds.
#BCV:Micah 1:5
<h3><verse=Micah 1:5>Micah 1:5</verse></h3>



For the transgression of Jacob [is] all this, and for the sins of the house of Israel. What [is] the
transgression of Jacob? [is it] not (d) Samaria? and what [are] the high (e) places of Judah? [are they]
not Jerusalem?

<page=2276>(d) Samaria, which should have been an example to all Israel of true religion and justice, was the
dirty pool and the tank that all idolatry and corruption was kept alive in, and who prided themselves
in their father Jacob, and boasted of him.



(e) That is, the idolatry and infection.
#BCV:Micah 1:7
<h3><verse=Micah 1:7>Micah 1:7</verse></h3>



And all the graven images thereof shall be beaten to pieces, and all the (f) hires thereof shall be
burned with the fire, and all the idols thereof will I lay desolate: for she gathered [it] of the hire of
an harlot, and they shall return (g) to the hire of an harlot.



(f) Which they gathered by evil practices, and thought that their idols had enriched them with these
wages because of their service to them.



(g) The gain that came by their idols will be consumed as a thing of nothing: for as the wages or
riches of harlots are wickedly gotten, so are they vilely and quickly spent.
#BCV:Micah 1:10
<h3><verse=Micah 1:10>Micah 1:10</verse></h3>



Declare ye [it] not at (h) Gath, weep ye not at all: in the house of (i) Aphrah roll thyself in the dust.



(h) Lest the Philistines our enemies rejoice at our destruction.



(i) Which was a city near to Jerusalem (<bcv=Jos 18:23>Jos 18:23</bcv>), there called Ophrah, and signifies dust: therefore
he wants them to mourn and roll themselves in the dust, for their dusty city.
#BCV:Micah 1:11
<h3><verse=Micah 1:11>Micah 1:11</verse></h3>



Pass ye away, thou inhabitant of (k) Saphir, having thy shame naked: the inhabitant of Zaanan came
not forth in the mourning of Bethezel; he shall (l) receive of you his standing.



(k) These were cities by which the enemy would pass as he came to Judah.



(l) He will not depart before he has overcome you, and so you will pay for his staying.
#BCV:Micah 1:12
<h3><verse=Micah 1:12>Micah 1:12</verse></h3>



For the inhabitant of Maroth waited carefully for good: but evil came down from the LORD unto
the (m) gate of Jerusalem.



(m) For Rabshakeh had shut up Jerusalem, so that they could not send to help them.
#BCV:Micah 1:13
<h3><verse=Micah 1:13>Micah 1:13</verse></h3>

<page=2277>O thou inhabitant of Lachish, bind the chariot to the (n) swift beast: she (o) [is] the beginning of the
sin to the daughter of Zion: for the transgressions of Israel were found in thee.



(n) To flee away: for Sennacherib laid siege first to that city, and remained there when he sent his
captains and army against Jerusalem.



(o) You first received the idolatry of Jeroboam, and so infected Jerusalem.
#BCV:Micah 1:14
<h3><verse=Micah 1:14>Micah 1:14</verse></h3>



Therefore shalt thou give presents to (p) Moreshethgath: the houses of Achzib [shall be] a lie to the
kings of Israel.



(p) You will bribe the Philistines your neighbours, but they will deceive you, as well as those of
Jerusalem.
#BCV:Micah 1:15
<h3><verse=Micah 1:15>Micah 1:15</verse></h3>



Yet will I bring an (q) heir unto thee, O inhabitant of Mareshah: he shall come unto Adullam (r) the
glory of Israel.



(q) He prophesies against his own city: and because it signified a heritage, he says that God would
send an heir to possess it.



(r) For so they thought themselves because of the strength of their cities.

<h2>Micah 2</h2>

#BCV:Micah 2:1
<h3><verse=Micah 2:1>Micah 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2278>Woe to them that devise iniquity, and work evil upon their beds! (a) when the morning is light, they
practise it, because it is in the power of their hand.



(a) As soon as they rise, they execute their wicked devices of the night, and according to their ability
hurt others.
#BCV:Micah 2:4
<h3><verse=Micah 2:4>Micah 2:4</verse></h3>



In that day shall [one] take up a parable against you, and lament with a doleful lamentation, [and] say,



(b) We be utterly spoiled: he hath changed the portion of my people: how hath he removed [it] from
me! turning away he hath divided our fields.



(b) Thus the Jews lament and say that there is no hope of restitution, seeing their possessions are
divided among the enemies.
#BCV:Micah 2:5
<h3><verse=Micah 2:5>Micah 2:5</verse></h3>



Therefore thou shalt have none that shall cast a cord by lot in (c) the congregation of the LORD.



(c) You will have no more lands to divide as you had in times past, and as you used to measure them
in the Jubilee.
#BCV:Micah 2:6
<h3><verse=Micah 2:6>Micah 2:6</verse></h3>




(d) Prophesy ye not, [say they to them that] prophesy: (e) they shall not prophesy to them, [that] they
shall not take shame.



(d) Thus the people warn the prophets that they speak to them no more, for they cannot endure
their threatenings.



(e) God says that they will not prophesy, nor receive any more of their rebukes or taunts.
#BCV:Micah 2:7
<h3><verse=Micah 2:7>Micah 2:7</verse></h3>



O [thou that art] named the house of Jacob, is the spirit of the LORD straitened? (f) [are] these his
doings? do not my words do good to him (g) that walketh uprightly?



(f) Are these your works according to his Law?



(g) Do not the godly find my words comfortable?
#BCV:Micah 2:8
<h3><verse=Micah 2:8>Micah 2:8</verse></h3>

<page=2279>Even (h) of late my people is risen up as an enemy: ye pull off the (i) robe with the garment from
them that pass by securely as men averse from war.



(h) That is, in past times.



(i) The poor can have no benefit from them, but they rob them, as though they were enemies.
#BCV:Micah 2:9
<h3><verse=Micah 2:9>Micah 2:9</verse></h3>



The women of my people have ye cast out from their pleasant houses; from their children have ye
taken away (k) my glory for ever.



(k) That is, their substance and living, which is God's blessing, and as it were part of his glory.
#BCV:Micah 2:10
<h3><verse=Micah 2:10>Micah 2:10</verse></h3>



Arise ye, and depart; for this [is] not [your] (l) rest: because it is polluted, it shall destroy [you], even
with a sore destruction.



(l) Jerusalem will not be your safeguard, but rather the cause of your destruction.
#BCV:Micah 2:11
<h3><verse=Micah 2:11>Micah 2:11</verse></h3>



If a man (m) walking in the spirit and falsehood do lie, [saying], (n) I will prophesy unto thee of
wine and of strong drink; he shall even be the prophet of this people.



(m) That is, show himself to be a prophet.



(n) He shows what prophets they delight in, that is, in flatterers, who tell them pleasant tales, and
speak of their benefits.
#BCV:Micah 2:12
<h3><verse=Micah 2:12>Micah 2:12</verse></h3>



I will surely assemble, O Jacob, (o) all of thee; I will surely gather the remnant of Israel; I will put
them together as the sheep of Bozrah, as the flock in the midst of their fold: they shall make great
noise by reason of [the multitude of] men.



(o) To destroy you.
#BCV:Micah 2:13
<h3><verse=Micah 2:13>Micah 2:13</verse></h3>

<page=2280>The (p) breaker is come up before them: they have broken up, and have passed through the gate,
and are gone out by it: and their king shall pass before them, and the LORD (q) on the head of
them.



(p) The enemy will break their gates and walls, and lead them into Chaldea.



(q) To drive them forward, and to help their enemies.

<h2>Micah 3</h2>

#BCV:Micah 3:1
<h3><verse=Micah 3:1>Micah 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2281>And I said, Hear, I pray you, O heads of Jacob, and ye princes of the house of Israel; [Is it] not for
you to know (a) judgment?



(a) That thing which is just and lawful, both to govern my people properly, and also to clear your
own conscience.
#BCV:Micah 3:2
<h3><verse=Micah 3:2>Micah 3:2</verse></h3>



Who hate the good, and love the evil; (b) who pluck off their skin from off them, and their flesh
from off their bones;



(b) The Prophet condemns the wicked governors not only of covetousness, theft, and murder, but
compares them to wolves, lions, and most cruel beasts.
#BCV:Micah 3:4
<h3><verse=Micah 3:4>Micah 3:4</verse></h3>



Then (c) shall they cry unto the LORD, but he will not hear them: he will even hide his face from
them at that time, as they have behaved themselves ill in their doings.



(c) That is, when I will punish their wickedness: for though I hear the godly before they cry (<bcv=isa 65:24>Isa 65:24</bcv>), 
yet I will not hear these even though they cry; (<bcv=Isa 1:15>Isa 1:15</bcv>) (<bcv=Ezek 8:18>Eze 8:18</bcv>;<bcv=Jam 2:13> Jam 2:13</bcv>; <bcv=1pe 3:11-12>Pe1 3:11-12</bcv>).

#BCV:Micah 3:5
<h3><verse=Micah 3:5>Micah 3:5</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD concerning the prophets that make my people err, that (d) bite with their
teeth, and cry, Peace; and he that putteth not into their mouths, they even prepare war against him.



(d) They devour all their substance, and then flatter them, promising that all will go well. But if
someone does not feed them, then they invent all ways to do evil.
#BCV:Micah 3:6
<h3><verse=Micah 3:6>Micah 3:6</verse></h3>



Therefore (e) night [shall be] unto you, that ye shall not have a vision; and it shall be dark unto you,
that ye shall not divine; and the sun shall go down over the prophets, and the day shall be dark over
them.



(e) As you have loved to walk in darkness, and to prophesy lies, so God will reward you with gross
blindness and ignorance, so that when all others will see the bright beams of God's grace, you will as
blind men grope as in the night.
#BCV:Micah 3:7
<h3><verse=Micah 3:7>Micah 3:7</verse></h3>

<page=2282>Then shall the seers be ashamed, and the diviners confounded: yea, they shall all cover (f) their lips;
for [there is] no answer of God.



(f) When God will reveal them to the world, they will be afraid to speak: for all will know that they
were but false prophets, and did give a false notion of the word of God.
#BCV:Micah 3:8
<h3><verse=Micah 3:8>Micah 3:8</verse></h3>



But truly I am full (g) of power by the spirit of the LORD, and of judgment, and of might, to
declare unto Jacob his transgression, and to Israel his sin.



(g) The Prophet being assured of his vocation by the Spirit of God, sets himself alone against all
the wicked, showing how God gave him gifts, ability and knowledge, to discern between good and
evil, and also steadfastness and endurance to reprove the sins of the people, and not to flatter them.
#BCV:Micah 3:10
<h3><verse=Micah 3:10>Micah 3:10</verse></h3>



They build up Zion with (h) blood, and Jerusalem with iniquity.



(h) They will say that they are the people of God, and abuse his name, as a pretence to disguise their
hypocrisy.
#BCV:Micah 3:12
<h3><verse=Micah 3:12>Micah 3:12</verse></h3>



Therefore shall Zion for your sake be (k) plowed [as] a field, and Jerusalem shall become heaps, and
the mountain of the house as the high places of the forest.



(k) Read (<bcv=Jer 26:18>Jer 26:18</bcv>).

<h2>Micah 4</h2>

#BCV:Micah 4:1
<h3><verse=Micah 4:1>Micah 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=2283>But in the (a) last days it shall come to pass, [that] the mountain of the house of the LORD shall be
established in the top of the mountains, and it shall be exalted above the (b) hills; and people shall
flow unto it.



(a) When Christ will come, and the temple will be destroyed.



(b) See<bcv=Isa 2:2> Isa 2:2</bcv>
#BCV:Micah 4:2
<h3><verse=Micah 4:2>Micah 4:2</verse></h3>



And many nations shall come, and say, Come, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, and
to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will (c) teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths:
for the law shall go forth of Zion, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem.



(c) He shows that there is no true Church, except where the people are taught by God's pure word.
#BCV:Micah 4:3
<h3><verse=Micah 4:3>Micah 4:3</verse></h3>



And he shall judge among many people, and (d) rebuke strong nations afar off; and they shall beat
their swords into plowshares, and their spears into (e) pruninghooks: nation shall not lift up a sword
against nation, neither shall they (f) learn war any more.



(d) By his corrections and threatenings he will bring the people into subjection who are in the
utmost corners of the world.



(e) They will abstain from all evil doing, and exercise themselves in godliness and in well doing to
others.



(f) Read (<bcv=Isa 2:4>Isa 2:4</bcv>)
#BCV:Micah 4:5
<h3><verse=Micah 4:5>Micah 4:5</verse></h3>



For all people will walk (g) every one in the name of his god, and we will walk in the name of the
LORD our God for ever and ever.



(g) He shows that the people of God ought to remain constant in their religion, even if all the world
should give themselves to their superstition and idolatry.
#BCV:Micah 4:7
<h3><verse=Micah 4:7>Micah 4:7</verse></h3>

<page=2284>And I will make her that halted (h) a remnant, and her that was cast far off a strong nation: and the
LORD shall reign over them in mount Zion from henceforth, even for ever.



(h) I will cause that Israel, who is now as one lame and halting, and so almost destroyed, to live again,
and grow into a great people.
#BCV:Micah 4:8
<h3><verse=Micah 4:8>Micah 4:8</verse></h3>



And thou, O (i) tower of the flock, the strong hold of the daughter of Zion, unto thee shall it come,
even (k) the first dominion; the kingdom shall come to the daughter of Jerusalem.



(i) Meaning Jerusalem, where the Lord's flock was gathered.



(k) The flourishing state of the kingdom, as it was under David and Solomon, which thing was
accomplished for the Church by the coming of Christ.
#BCV:Micah 4:9
<h3><verse=Micah 4:9>Micah 4:9</verse></h3>



Now why dost thou cry out aloud? [is (l) there] no king in thee? is thy counsellor perished? for pangs
have taken thee as a woman in travail.



(l) In the meantime he shows that they would endure great troubles and temptations, when they saw
themselves neither to have king nor counsel.
#BCV:Micah 4:12
<h3><verse=Micah 4:12>Micah 4:12</verse></h3>



But they (m) know not the thoughts of the LORD, neither understand they his counsel: for he shall
gather them as the sheaves into the floor.



(m) He shows that the faithful ought not to measure God's judgments by the braggings and
threatenings of the wicked, but by these are admonished to lift up their hearts to God to call for
deliverance.
#BCV:Micah 4:13
<h3><verse=Micah 4:13>Micah 4:13</verse></h3>



Arise and thresh, (n) O daughter of Zion: for I will make thine horn iron, and I will make thy hoofs
brass: and thou shalt beat in pieces many people: and I will consecrate their gain unto the LORD,
and their substance unto the Lord of the whole earth.



(n) God gives his Church this victory, as often as he overcomes their enemies: but the
accomplishment of this will be at the last coming of Christ.

<h2>Micah 5</h2>

#BCV:Micah 5:1
<h3><verse=Micah 5:1>Micah 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=2285>Now gather thyself in troops, O daughter (a) of troops: he hath laid siege against us: they shall smite
the judge of Israel with a rod upon the cheek.



(a) He forewarns them of the dangers that will come before they enjoy these comforts, showing that
inasmuch as Jerusalem was accustomed with her garrisons to trouble others, the Lord would now
cause other garrisons to vex her, and that her rulers would be hit on the face most contemptuously.
#BCV:Micah 5:2
<h3><verse=Micah 5:2>Micah 5:2</verse></h3>



But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, [though] thou be (b) little among the thousands of Judah, [yet] out
of thee shall he come forth unto me [that is] to be ruler in Israel; whose (c) goings forth [have been]
from of old, from everlasting.



(b) For so the Jews divided their country that for every thousand there was a chief captain: and
because Bethlehem was not able to make a thousand, he calls it little. But yet God will raise up his
captain and governor in it: and thus it is not the least by reason of this benefit. See<bcv=Mat 2:6> Mat 2:6</bcv>



(c) He shows that the coming of Christ and all his ways were appointed by God from all eternity.
#BCV:Micah 5:3
<h3><verse=Micah 5:3>Micah 5:3</verse></h3>



Therefore will he give them up, until the time [that] (d) she which travaileth hath brought forth: then
the remnant of his brethren shall return unto the children of Israel.



(d) He compares the Jews to women with child, who for a time would have great sorrows, but at
length they would have a comfortable deliverance; (<bcv=John 16:21>Joh 16:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Micah 5:4
<h3><verse=Micah 5:4>Micah 5:4</verse></h3>



And he shall (e) stand and feed in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the
LORD his God; and they shall abide: for now shall he be great unto the ends of the earth.



(e) That is, Christ's kingdom will be stable and everlasting, and his people, the Gentiles as well as the
Jews, will dwell in safety.
#BCV:Micah 5:5
<h3><verse=Micah 5:5>Micah 5:5</verse></h3>

<page=2286>And this [man] (f) shall be the peace, when the Assyrian shall come into our land: and when he shall
tread in our palaces, then shall we raise against him seven shepherds, and eight principal men.



(f) This Messiah will be a sufficient safeguard for us, and though the enemy invades us for a time, yet
will God stir up many who will be able to deliver us.
#BCV:Micah 5:6
<h3><verse=Micah 5:6>Micah 5:6</verse></h3>



And they shall waste the (g) land of Assyria with the sword, and the land of Nimrod in the
entrances thereof: thus shall he (h) deliver [us] from the Assyrian, when he cometh into our land,
and when he treadeth within our borders.



(g) These whom God will raise up for the deliverance of his Church, will destroy all the enemies of
it, who are meant here by the Assyrians and Babylonians, who were the chief enemies at that time.



(h) By these governors will God deliver us when the enemy comes into our land.
#BCV:Micah 5:7
<h3><verse=Micah 5:7>Micah 5:7</verse></h3>



And the (i) remnant of Jacob shall be in the midst of many people as a dew from the LORD, as the
showers upon the grass, that tarrieth not for man, nor waiteth for the sons of men.



(i) This remnant or Church which God will deliver will only depend on God's power and defence (as
does the grass of the field), and not on the hope of man.
#BCV:Micah 5:10
<h3><verse=Micah 5:10>Micah 5:10</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the LORD, that I will cut off thy (k) horses out of the
midst of thee, and I will destroy thy chariots:



(k) I will destroy all things in which you put your confidence, such as your vain self-reliance and
idolatry, and in doing this I will be helping you.
#BCV:Micah 5:15
<h3><verse=Micah 5:15>Micah 5:15</verse></h3>



And I will execute vengeance in anger and fury upon the heathen, (l) such as they have not heard.



(l) It will be so terrible that nothing like it has been heard of.

<h2>Micah 6</h2>

#BCV:Micah 6:1
<h3><verse=Micah 6:1>Micah 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=2287>Hear ye now what the LORD saith; Arise, contend thou before the (a) mountains, and let the hills
hear thy voice.



(a) He took the high mountains and hard rocks as witnesses against the obstinacy of his people.
#BCV:Micah 6:4
<h3><verse=Micah 6:4>Micah 6:4</verse></h3>



For I (b) brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, and redeemed thee out of the house of servants;
and I sent before thee Moses, Aaron, and Miriam.



(b) I have not hurt you, but bestowed infinite benefits upon you.
#BCV:Micah 6:5
<h3><verse=Micah 6:5>Micah 6:5</verse></h3>



O my people, remember now what Balak king of Moab consulted, and what Balaam the son of
Beor answered him from (c) Shittim unto Gilgal; that ye may know the (d) righteousness of the
LORD.



(c) That is, remember my benefits from the beginning, how I delivered you from Balaam's curse, and
also spared you from Shittim which was in the plain of Moab, until I brought you into the promised
land.



(d) That is, the truth of his promise and his manifold benefits toward you.
#BCV:Micah 6:6
<h3><verse=Micah 6:6>Micah 6:6</verse></h3>



Wherewith (e) shall I come before the LORD, [and] bow myself before the high God? shall I come
before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old?



(e) Thus the people by hypocrisy ask how to please God, and are content to offer sacrifices, but will
not change their lives.
#BCV:Micah 6:7
<h3><verse=Micah 6:7>Micah 6:7</verse></h3>



Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, [or] with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I
give my (f) firstborn [for] my transgression, the fruit of my body [for] the sin of my soul?



(f) There is nothing so dear to man, but the hypocrites will offer it to God, if they think by this to
avoid his anger. But they will never by brought to mortify their own affections, and to give
themselves willingly to serve God as he commands.
#BCV:Micah 6:8
<h3><verse=Micah 6:8>Micah 6:8</verse></h3>

<page=2288>He hath shewed thee, O man, what [is] good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, (g) but to
do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?



(g) The Prophet in few words calls them to the observation of the second table of the ten
commandments, to know if they will obey God correctly or not, saying that God has commanded
them to do this.
#BCV:Micah 6:9
<h3><verse=Micah 6:9>Micah 6:9</verse></h3>



The LORD'S voice crieth unto the (h) city, and [the man of] wisdom shall see thy name: hear ye the
rod, and who hath appointed it.



(h) Meaning, that when God speaks to any city or nation, the godly will acknowledge his majesty and
not consider the mortal man that brings the threatening, but God that sends it.
#BCV:Micah 6:12
<h3><verse=Micah 6:12>Micah 6:12</verse></h3>



For the rich men thereof (i) are full of violence, and the inhabitants thereof have spoken lies, and
their tongue [is] deceitful in their mouth.



(i) That is, of Jerusalem.
#BCV:Micah 6:14
<h3><verse=Micah 6:14>Micah 6:14</verse></h3>



Thou shalt eat, but not be satisfied; and (k) thy casting down [shall be] in the midst of thee; and
thou (l) shalt take hold, but shalt not deliver; and [that] which thou deliverest will I give up to the
sword.



(k) You will be consumed with inward grief and evils.



(l) Meaning that the city would go about to save her men, as they that lay hold of that which they
would preserve.
#BCV:Micah 6:16
<h3><verse=Micah 6:16>Micah 6:16</verse></h3>



For the (m) statutes of Omri are kept, and all the works of the house of Ahab, and ye walk in their
counsels; that I should make thee a desolation, and the inhabitants thereof an hissing: therefore ye
shall bear the reproach of my people.



(m) You have received all the corruption and idolatry with which the ten tribes were infected under
Omri and Ahab his son: and to excuse your doings, you allege the King's authority by his statutes,
and also wisdom and policy in so doing, but you will not escape punishment. But as I have shown
<page=2289>you great favour, and taken you for my people, so will your plagues be according as your sins; 
(<bcv=Luke 12:47>Luk 12:47</bcv>).

<h2>Micah 7</h2>

#BCV:Micah 7:1
<h3><verse=Micah 7:1>Micah 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=2290>Woe is me! for I am as when they have gathered the (a) summer fruits, as the grapegleanings of the
vintage: [there is] no cluster to eat: my soul desired the firstripe fruit.



(a) The Prophet takes upon himself the voice of the earth, which complains that all her fruits are
gone, so that none are left: that is, that there is no godly man remaining, for all are given to cruelty
and deceit, so that none spares his own brother.
#BCV:Micah 7:2
<h3><verse=Micah 7:2>Micah 7:2</verse></h3>



The good [man] is perished out of the earth: and [there is] none upright among men: (b) they all lie
in wait for blood; they hunt every man his brother with a net.



(b) He shows that the prince, the judge, and the rich man are all linked together to do evil, and to
disguise the deeds of one another.
#BCV:Micah 7:3
<h3><verse=Micah 7:3>Micah 7:3</verse></h3>



That they may do evil with both hands earnestly, the prince asketh, and the judge [asketh] for a
reward; and the (c) great [man], he uttereth his mischievous desire: so (d) they wrap it up.



(c) That is, the rich man that is able to give money, abstains from no wickedness or injury.



(d) These men agree among themselves, and conspire with one another to do evil.
#BCV:Micah 7:4
<h3><verse=Micah 7:4>Micah 7:4</verse></h3>



The best of them [is] as (e) a brier: the most upright [is sharper] than a thorn hedge: the day of (f)
thy watchmen [and] thy visitation cometh; now shall be their perplexity.



(e) They that are of most estimation and are counted most honest among them, are but thorns and
briers to prick.



(f) Meaning the prophets and governors.
#BCV:Micah 7:7
<h3><verse=Micah 7:7>Micah 7:7</verse></h3>



Therefore (g) I will look unto the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear
me.




(g) The Prophet shows that the only remedy for the godly in desperate evils, is to flee to God for
help.
#BCV:Micah 7:8
<h3><verse=Micah 7:8>Micah 7:8</verse></h3>

<page=2291>Rejoice not against me, (h) O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the
LORD [shall be] a light unto me.


(h) This is spoken in the voice of the Church, which calls the malignant church her enemy.
#BCV:Micah 7:11
<h3><verse=Micah 7:11>Micah 7:11</verse></h3>



[In] (i) the day that thy walls are to be built, [in] that day shall (k) the decree be far removed.



(i) That is, when God will show himself to be a deliverer of his Church, and a destroyer of his
enemies.



(k) Meaning the cruel empire of the Babylonians.
#BCV:Micah 7:12
<h3><verse=Micah 7:12>Micah 7:12</verse></h3>



[In] that day [also] he shall come even to thee from (l) Assyria, and [from] the fortified cities, and
from the fortress even to the river, and from sea to sea, and [from] mountain to mountain.



(l) When the Church will be restored, those that were enemies before will come out of all the
corners of the world to her, so that neither fortresses, rivers, seas, nor mountains will be able to stop
them.
#BCV:Micah 7:13
<h3><verse=Micah 7:13>Micah 7:13</verse></h3>



Notwithstanding the land shall be desolate because of them that dwell therein, for the fruit of (m)
their doings.



(m) Before this grace appears, he shows how grievously the hypocrites themselves will be punished,
seeing that the earth itself, which cannot sin, will be made waste because of their wickedness.
#BCV:Micah 7:14
<h3><verse=Micah 7:14>Micah 7:14</verse></h3>




(n) Feed thy people with thy rod, the flock of thine heritage, which dwell solitarily [in] the wood, in
the midst of Carmel: let them feed [in] Bashan and Gilead, as in the days of old.



(n) The Prophet prays to God to be merciful to his Church, when they would be scattered abroad as
in solitary places in Babylon, and to be beneficial to them as in times past.
#BCV:Micah 7:15
<h3><verse=Micah 7:15>Micah 7:15</verse></h3>


<page=2292>(o) According to the days of thy coming out of the land of Egypt will I shew unto him marvellous
[things].



(o) God promises to be favourable to his people, as he had been before.
#BCV:Micah 7:16
<h3><verse=Micah 7:16>Micah 7:16</verse></h3>



The nations shall see and be confounded at all their might: they shall (p) lay [their] hand upon [their]
mouth, (q) their ears shall be deaf.



(p) They will be as dumb men, and dare brag no more.



(q) They will be astonished and afraid to hear men speak, lest they should hear of their destruction.
#BCV:Micah 7:17
<h3><verse=Micah 7:17>Micah 7:17</verse></h3>



They shall (r) lick the dust like a serpent, they shall move out of their holes like worms of the earth:
they shall be afraid of the LORD our God, and shall fear because of thee.



(r) They will fall flat on the ground because of fear.
#BCV:Micah 7:18
<h3><verse=Micah 7:18>Micah 7:18</verse></h3>



Who [is] a God like unto thee, that pardoneth iniquity, and (s) passeth by the transgression of the
remnant of his heritage? he retaineth not his anger for ever, because he delighteth [in] mercy.



(s) As though he did not see it, ignoring it.
#BCV:Micah 7:19
<h3><verse=Micah 7:19>Micah 7:19</verse></h3>



He will turn again, he will have compassion upon us; he will subdue our iniquities; and thou wilt cast
all (t) their sins into the depths of the sea.



(t) Meaning his elect.
#BCV:Micah 7:20
<h3><verse=Micah 7:20>Micah 7:20</verse></h3>



Thou wilt perform the (u) truth to Jacob, [and] the mercy to Abraham, which thou hast sworn unto
our fathers from the days of old.



(u) The Church is assured that God will perform the truth of his merciful promise, which he had
made long ago to Abraham, and to all that would apprehend the promise by faith.

<h1>Nahum</h1>


<h2>Nahum 1</h2>

#BCV:Nahum 1:1
<h3><verse=Nahum 1:1>Nahum 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2293>The (a) burden of Nineveh. (b) The book of the vision of Nahum the (c) Elkoshite.



The Argument - As those of Nineveh showed themselves prompt and ready to receive the word of
God at Jonah's preaching, and so turned to the Lord by repentance, so after a certain time they gave
themselves to worldly means to increase their dominion, rather than seeking to continue in that fear
of God, and path in which they had begun. They cast off the care of religion, and so returned to
their vomit and provoked God's just judgment against them, in afflicting his people. Therefore their
city Nineveh was destroyed, and Meroch-baladan, king of Babel (or as some think, Nebuchadnezzar)
enjoyed the empire of the Assyrians. But because God has a continual care for his Church, he stirs
up his Prophet to comfort the godly, showing that the destruction of their enemies would be for
their consolation: and as it seems, he prophesies around the time of Hezekiah, and not in the time
of Manasseh his son, as the Jews write.



(a) See<bcv=Isa 13:1> Isa 13:1</bcv>



(b) The vision or revelation, which God commanded Nahum to write concerning the Ninevites.



(c) That is, born in a poor village in the tribe of Simeon.
#BCV:Nahum 1:2
<h3><verse=Nahum 1:2>Nahum 1:2</verse></h3>



God [is] (d) jealous, and the LORD revengeth; the LORD revengeth, and (e) [is] furious; the LORD
will take vengeance on his adversaries, and he reserveth [wrath] for his enemies.



(d) Meaning, of his glory.



(e) With his own he is but angry for a time, but his anger is never appeased toward the reprobate,
even though he defers it for a time.
#BCV:Nahum 1:3
<h3><verse=Nahum 1:3>Nahum 1:3</verse></h3>



The (f) LORD [is] slow to anger, and great in power, and will not at all acquit [the wicked]: the
LORD hath his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds [are] the dust of his feet.



(f) Thus the wicked would make God's mercy an occasion to sin, but the Prophet wishes them to
consider his power and justice.
#BCV:Nahum 1:6
<h3><verse=Nahum 1:6>Nahum 1:6</verse></h3>

#BCV:nah 1:6
<h3><verse=nah 1:6>nah 1:6</verse></h3>



is poured out like fire, and the rocks are thrown down by him.



(g) If all creatures are at God's commandment, and none are able to resist his wrath, will man flatter
himself, and think by any means to escape, when he provokes his God to anger?
#BCV:Nahum 1:7
<h3><verse=Nahum 1:7>Nahum 1:7</verse></h3>



The LORD [is] good, (h) a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him.



(h) Lest the faithful should be discouraged by hearing the power of God, he shows them that his
mercy appertains to them, and that he has care over them.
#BCV:Nahum 1:8
<h3><verse=Nahum 1:8>Nahum 1:8</verse></h3>



But with an overrunning flood he will make an utter end of the (i) place thereof, and darkness shall
pursue his enemies.



(i) Signifying that God will suddenly destroy Nineveh and the Assyrians in such a way, that they will
lie in perpetual darkness, and never recover their strength again.
#BCV:Nahum 1:9
<h3><verse=Nahum 1:9>Nahum 1:9</verse></h3>



What do ye (k) imagine against the LORD? he will make an utter end: affliction shall not rise up the
second time.



(k) He shows that the undertakings of the Assyrians against Judah and the Church were against God,
and therefore he would so destroy them the first time, that he would not need to return the second
time.
#BCV:Nahum 1:10
<h3><verse=Nahum 1:10>Nahum 1:10</verse></h3>



For while [they be] folden together [as] (l) thorns, and while they are drunken [as] drunkards, they
shall be devoured as stubble fully dry.



(l) Though the Assyrians think themselves like thorns that prick on all sides, yet the Lord will set fire
on them, and as drunken men are not able to stand against any force, so they will not be able to
resist him at all.
#BCV:Nahum 1:11
<h3><verse=Nahum 1:11>Nahum 1:11</verse></h3>



There is [one] (m) come out of thee, that imagineth evil against the LORD, a wicked counsellor.

<page=2295>(m) Which may be understood either of Sennacherib, or of the whole body of the people of
Nineveh.
#BCV:Nahum 1:12
<h3><verse=Nahum 1:12>Nahum 1:12</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; Though [they be] (n) quiet, and likewise many, yet thus shall they be cut
down, when he shall pass through. Though I have afflicted thee, I will afflict thee no more.



(n) Though they think themselves in most safety, and of greatest strength, yet when God will pass by,
he will destroy them: nonetheless, he comforts his Church, and promises to stop punishing them by
the Assyrians.
#BCV:Nahum 1:14
<h3><verse=Nahum 1:14>Nahum 1:14</verse></h3>



And the LORD hath given a commandment concerning thee, [that] no more of thy name be (o)
sown: out of the house of thy gods will I cut off the graven image and the molten image: I will
make thy grave; for thou art vile.



(o) Meaning, Sennacherib, who would have no more children, but be slain in the house of his gods;



(<bcv=II Ki 19:36-37>Kg2 19:36-37</bcv>).
#BCV:Nahum 1:15
<h3><verse=Nahum 1:15>Nahum 1:15</verse></h3>



Behold upon the mountains the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth (p) peace! O
Judah, keep thy solemn feasts, perform thy vows: for the wicked shall no more pass through thee; he
is utterly cut off.



(p) Which peace the Jews would enjoy by the death of Sennacherib.

<h2>Nahum 2</h2>

#BCV:Nahum 2:1
<h3><verse=Nahum 2:1>Nahum 2:1</verse></h3>


<page=2296>(a) He that dasheth in pieces is come up before thy face: keep the munition, watch the way, make
[thy] loins strong, fortify [thy] power mightily.



(a) That is, Nebuchadnezzar is in readiness to destroy the Assyrians: and the Prophet derides the
undertakings of the Assyrians who prepared to resist him.
#BCV:Nahum 2:2
<h3><verse=Nahum 2:2>Nahum 2:2</verse></h3>



For the LORD hath (b) turned away the excellency of Jacob, as the excellency of Israel: for the
emptiers have emptied them out, and (c) marred their vine branches.



(b) Seeing God has punished his own people Judah and Israel, he will now punish the enemies by
whom he scourged them; read (<bcv=Isa 10:12>Isa 10:12</bcv>).



(c) Signifying that the Israelites were utterly destroyed.
#BCV:Nahum 2:3
<h3><verse=Nahum 2:3>Nahum 2:3</verse></h3>



The shield of his mighty men is made red, (d) the valiant men [are] in scarlet: the chariots [shall be]
with flaming torches in the day of his preparation, and (e) the fir trees shall be terribly shaken.



(d) Both to put fear into the enemy, and also that they themselves should not so soon detect blood
among one another, to discourage them.



(e) Meaning their spears would shake and crash together.
#BCV:Nahum 2:5
<h3><verse=Nahum 2:5>Nahum 2:5</verse></h3>




(f) He shall recount his worthies: they shall stumble in their walk; they shall make haste to the wall
thereof, and the defence shall be prepared.



(f) Then the Assyrians will seek by all means to gather their power, but all things will fail them.
#BCV:Nahum 2:8
<h3><verse=Nahum 2:8>Nahum 2:8</verse></h3>



But Nineveh [is] of (g) old like a pool of water: yet they shall flee away. Stand, stand, [shall they cry];
but none shall look back.



(g) The Assyrians will flatter themselves and say that Nineveh is so ancient that it can never perish,
and is as a fishpool, whose waters cannot be touched by those that walk on the banks. But they will
be scattered, and will not look back, even if men call them.
#BCV:Nahum 2:9
<h3><verse=Nahum 2:9>Nahum 2:9</verse></h3>


<page=2297>(h) Take ye the spoil of silver, take the spoil of gold: for [there is] none end of the store [and] glory
out of all the pleasant furniture.



(h) God commands the enemies to spoil Nineveh, and promises them infinite riches and treasures.
#BCV:Nahum 2:10
<h3><verse=Nahum 2:10>Nahum 2:10</verse></h3>




(i) She is empty, and void, and waste: and the heart melteth, and the knees smite together, and much
pain [is] in all loins, and the faces (k) of them all gather blackness.



(i) That is, Nineveh, and the men of it will be after this manner.



(k) See<bcv=Joel 2:6> Joe 2:6</bcv>
#BCV:Nahum 2:11
<h3><verse=Nahum 2:11>Nahum 2:11</verse></h3>



Where [is] the (l) dwelling of the lions, and the feedingplace of the young lions, where the lion,
[even] the old lion, walked, [and] the lion's whelp, and none made [them] afraid?



(l) Meaning, Nineveh, whose inhabitants were cruel like the lions, and given to all oppression, and
spared no violence or tyranny to provide for their wives and children.
#BCV:Nahum 2:13
<h3><verse=Nahum 2:13>Nahum 2:13</verse></h3>



Behold, I [am] against thee, saith the LORD of hosts, and I will burn her chariots in the (m) smoke,
and the sword shall devour thy young lions: and I will cut off thy prey from the earth, and the voice
of thy (n) messengers shall no more be heard.



(m) That is, as soon as my wrath begins to burn.



(n) Signifying the heralds, who were accustomed to proclaim war. Some read, "of you gum teeth",
with which Nineveh was accustomed to bruise the bones of the poor.

<h2>Nahum 3</h2>

#BCV:Nahum 3:1
<h3><verse=Nahum 3:1>Nahum 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2298>Woe to the bloody city! it [is] all full of lies [and] robbery; (a) the prey departeth not;



(a) It never ceases to spoil and rob.
#BCV:Nahum 3:2
<h3><verse=Nahum 3:2>Nahum 3:2</verse></h3>



The noise of a whip, (b) and the noise of the rattling of the wheels, and of the pransing horses, and
of the jumping chariots.



(b) He shows how the Chaldeans will hasten, and how courageous their horses will be in beating the
ground when they come against the Assyrians.
#BCV:Nahum 3:4
<h3><verse=Nahum 3:4>Nahum 3:4</verse></h3>



Because of the multitude of the whoredoms of the wellfavoured (c) harlot, the mistress of
witchcrafts, that selleth nations through her whoredoms, and families through her witchcrafts.



(c) He compares Nineveh to a harlot, who by her beauty and subtilty entices young men, and brings
them to destruction.
#BCV:Nahum 3:8
<h3><verse=Nahum 3:8>Nahum 3:8</verse></h3>



Art thou better than populous (d) No, that was situate among the rivers, [that had] the waters round
about it, whose rampart [was] the sea, [and] her wall [was] from the sea?



(d) Meaning Alexandria, which had a compact of peace with so many nations, and yet was now
destroyed.
#BCV:Nahum 3:15
<h3><verse=Nahum 3:15>Nahum 3:15</verse></h3>



There shall the fire devour thee; the sword shall cut thee off, it shall eat thee up like the (e)
cankerworm: make thyself many as the cankerworm, make thyself many as the locusts.



(c) Signifying that God's judgments would suddenly destroy the Assyrians, as these vermin do with
rain or change of weather.
#BCV:Nahum 3:18
<h3><verse=Nahum 3:18>Nahum 3:18</verse></h3>



Thy (f) shepherds slumber, O king of Assyria: thy nobles shall dwell [in the dust]: thy people is
scattered upon the mountains, and no man gathereth [them].

<page=2299>(f) Your princes and counsellors.
#BCV:Nahum 3:19
<h3><verse=Nahum 3:19>Nahum 3:19</verse></h3>



[There is] no healing of thy bruise; thy wound is grievous: all that hear the bruit of thee shall clap
the hands over thee: for upon (g) whom hath not thy wickedness passed continually?



(g) Meaning that the Assyrians had done hurt to all people.

<h1>Habakkuk</h1>


<h2>Habakkuk 1</h2>

#BCV:Habakkuk 1:1
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 1:1>Habakkuk 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2301>The burden which Habakkuk the prophet saw.



The Argument - The Prophet complains to God, considering the great felicity of the wicked, and
the miserable oppression of the godly, who endure all types of affliction and cruelty, and yet can see
no end. Therefore he had this revelation shown to him by God, that the Chaldeans would come and
take them away as captives, so that they could look for no end of their troubles as yet, because of
their stubbornness and rebellion against the Lord. And lest the godly should despair, seeing this
horrible confusion, he comforts them by this, that God will punish the Chaldeans their enemies,
when their pride and cruelty will be at height. And for this reason he exhorts the faithful to patience
by his own example, and shows them a form of prayer, with which they should comfort themselves.
#BCV:Habakkuk 1:2
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 1:2>Habakkuk 1:2</verse></h3>



O LORD, how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear! [even] cry out to thee (a) [of] violence, and
thou wilt not save!



(a) The Prophet complains to God, and bewails that among the Jews is left no fairness and brotherly
love: but instead of these reigns cruelty, theft, contention, and strife.
#BCV:Habakkuk 1:4
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 1:4>Habakkuk 1:4</verse></h3>



Therefore the law is feeble, and judgment doth never go forth: for the wicked doth (b) surround the
righteous; therefore judgment goeth forth (c) perverted



(b) To suppress him, if any should show himself zealous of God's cause.



(c) Because the judges who should remedy this excess, are as evil as the rest.
#BCV:Habakkuk 1:5
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 1:5>Habakkuk 1:5</verse></h3>



Behold ye among the nations, and regard, and wonder marvellously: for [I] will work a work in your
days, [which] (d) ye will not believe, though it be told [you].



(d) As in times past you would not believe God's word, so you will not now believe the strange
plagues which are at hand.
#BCV:Habakkuk 1:7
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 1:7>Habakkuk 1:7</verse></h3>

#BCV:hab 1:7
<h3><verse=hab 1:7>hab 1:7</verse></h3>




(e) They themselves will be your judges in this cause, and none will have authority over them to
control them.
#BCV:Habakkuk 1:9
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 1:9>Habakkuk 1:9</verse></h3>



They shall come all for violence: their faces shall sup up [as] the (f) east wind, and they shall gather
the captives (g) as the sand.



(f) For the Jews most feared this wind, because it destroyed their fruits.



(g) They will be so many in number.
#BCV:Habakkuk 1:10
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 1:10>Habakkuk 1:10</verse></h3>



And they shall scoff at the kings, and the princes shall be a scorn to them: they shall deride every
strong hold; for they shall heap (h) dust, and take it.



(h) They will cast up mounds against it.
#BCV:Habakkuk 1:11
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 1:11>Habakkuk 1:11</verse></h3>



Then shall [his] mind change, and he shall (i) pass over, and offend, [imputing] this his power to his
god.



(i) The Prophet comforts the faithful that God will also destroy the Babylonians, because they will
abuse this victory, and become proud and insolent, attributing the praise of this to their idols.
#BCV:Habakkuk 1:12
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 1:12>Habakkuk 1:12</verse></h3>



[Art] thou not from everlasting, O LORD my God, my Holy One? we shall not (k) die. O LORD,
thou hast ordained them for judgment; and, O mighty God, thou hast established them for
correction.



(k) He assures the godly of God's protection, showing that the enemy can do no more than God has
appointed, and also that their sins require such a sharp rod.
#BCV:Habakkuk 1:14
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 1:14>Habakkuk 1:14</verse></h3>



And makest men as the (l) fishes of the sea, as the creeping animals, [that have] no ruler over them?



(l) So that the great devours the small, and the Chaldeans destroy all the world.
#BCV:Habakkuk 1:16
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 1:16>Habakkuk 1:16</verse></h3>

<page=2303>Therefore they sacrifice to their (m) net, and burn incense to their drag; because by them their
portion [is] fat, and their food plenteous.



(m) Meaning that the enemies flatter themselves, and glory in their own strength, power, and
intellect.
#BCV:Habakkuk 1:17
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 1:17>Habakkuk 1:17</verse></h3>



Shall they therefore empty their net, and not spare continually to slay (n) the nations?



(n) Meaning, that they would not.

<h2>Habakkuk 2</h2>

#BCV:Habakkuk 2:1
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:1>Habakkuk 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2304>I will stand upon my (a) watch, and seat myself upon the tower, and will watch to see what he will
say to me, and what I shall answer when I am reproved.



(a) I will renounce my own judgment, and only depend on God to be instructed what I will answer
those that abuse my preaching, and to be armed against all temptations.
#BCV:Habakkuk 2:2
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:2>Habakkuk 2:2</verse></h3>



And the LORD answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make [it] plain upon tablets, that he
may run (b) that readeth it.



(b) Write it in great letters, that he that runneth may read it.
#BCV:Habakkuk 2:3
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:3>Habakkuk 2:3</verse></h3>



For the vision [is] yet for an appointed time, but at the (c) end it shall speak, and not lie: though it
may tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry.



(c) Which contained the destruction of the enemy, and the comfort of the Church. And even
though God does not execute this according to man's hasty affections, yet the issue of both is
certain at his appointed time.
#BCV:Habakkuk 2:4
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:4>Habakkuk 2:4</verse></h3>



Behold, (d) his soul [which] is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith.



(d) To trust in himself, or in any worldly thing, is never to be at peace: for the only rest is to trust in
God by faith; (<bcv=Rom 1:17>Rom 1:17</bcv>;<bcv=Gal 3:11> Gal 3:11</bcv>;<bcv=Heb 10:38> Heb 10:38</bcv>).
#BCV:Habakkuk 2:5
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:5>Habakkuk 2:5</verse></h3>



Yea also, because (e) he transgresseth by wine, [he is] a proud man, neither keepeth at home, who
enlargeth his desire as hell, and [is] as death, and cannot be satisfied, but gathereth to him all nations,
and heapeth to him all people:



(e) He compares the proud and covetous man to a drunkard that is without reason and sense, whom
God will punish and make a laughing stock to all the world: and this he speaks for the comfort of
the godly, and against the Chaldeans.
#BCV:Habakkuk 2:6
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:6>Habakkuk 2:6</verse></h3>

#BCV:hab 2:6
<h3><verse=hab 2:6>hab 2:6</verse></h3>



him that increaseth [that which is] not his! (f) how long? and to him that ladeth himself with thick
clay!



(f) Signifying that all the world will wish the destruction of tyrants, and that by their oppression and
covetousness, they heap but upon themselves more heavy burdens: for the more they get, the more
are they troubled.
#BCV:Habakkuk 2:7
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:7>Habakkuk 2:7</verse></h3>



Shall (g) they not rise suddenly that shall bite thee, and awake that shall oppress thee, and thou shalt
be for booty to them?



(g) That is, the Medes and persians, that would destroy the Babylonians?
#BCV:Habakkuk 2:10
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:10>Habakkuk 2:10</verse></h3>



Thou (h) gavest shameful counsel to thy house by cutting off many people, and hast sinned [against]
thy soul.



(h) Signifying that the covetous man is the ruin of his own house, when he thinks to enrich it be
cruelty and oppression.
#BCV:Habakkuk 2:11
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:11>Habakkuk 2:11</verse></h3>



For the (i) stone shall cry out of the wall, and the beam out of the timber shall answer it.



(i) The stones of the house will cry, and say that they are built from blood, and the wood will answer
and say the same of itself.
#BCV:Habakkuk 2:13
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:13>Habakkuk 2:13</verse></h3>



Behold, [is it] not from the (k) LORD of hosts that the people shall labour [only] for fire, and the
nations shall weary themselves for nothing?



(k) Meaning, that God will not defer his vengeance long, but will come and destroy all their labours,
as though they were consumed with fire.
#BCV:Habakkuk 2:14
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:14>Habakkuk 2:14</verse></h3>



For the earth shall (l) be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover
the sea.

<page=2306>(l) In the destruction of the Babylonians his glory will appear through all the world.
#BCV:Habakkuk 2:15
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:15>Habakkuk 2:15</verse></h3>



Woe to him that giveth his neighbour (m) drink, that puttest thy bottle to [him], and makest [him]
drunk also, that thou mayest look on their nakedness!



(m) He reproaches by this the king of Babylon, who as he was drunken with covetousness and
cruelty, so he provoked others to the same, and inflamed them by his madness, and so in the end
brought them to shame.
#BCV:Habakkuk 2:16
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:16>Habakkuk 2:16</verse></h3>



Thou art filled with shame (n) for glory: drink thou also, and let thy shame come upon thee: the cup
of the LORD'S right hand shall be turned to thee, and utter shame [shall be] on thy glory.



(n) Whereas you thought to have the glory of these your doings, they will turn to your shame: for
you will drink of the same cup with others in your turn.
#BCV:Habakkuk 2:17
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:17>Habakkuk 2:17</verse></h3>



For the (o) violence of Lebanon shall cover thee, and the spoil of beasts, [which] made them afraid,
because of men's blood, and for the violence of the land, of the city, and of all that dwell in it.



(o) Because the Babylonians were cruel not only against other nations, but also against the people of
God, which is meant by Lebanon and the beast in it, he shows that the same cruelly will be executed
against them.
#BCV:Habakkuk 2:18
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:18>Habakkuk 2:18</verse></h3>



What profiteth the graven (p) image that its maker hath engraved it; the molten image, and a teacher
of lies, that the maker of his work trusteth in it, to make dumb idols?



(p) He shows that the Babylonian gods could not help them at all, for they were but blocks or stones.
See<bcv=Jer 10:8> Jer 10:8</bcv>
#BCV:Habakkuk 2:19
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 2:19>Habakkuk 2:19</verse></h3>



Woe to him that saith to the wood, Awake; to the dumb stone, Arise, it shall teach! (q) Behold, it [is]
laid over with gold and silver, and [there is] no breath at all within it.



(q) If you will consider what it is, and how it has neither breath nor life, but is a dead thing.

<h2>Habakkuk 3</h2>

#BCV:Habakkuk 3:1
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 3:1>Habakkuk 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2307>A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet (a) upon Shigionoth.



(a) "upon Shigionoth" or "for the ignorance". The prophet instructs his people to pray to God, not
only because of their great sins, but also for those they had committed in ignorance.
#BCV:Habakkuk 3:2
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 3:2>Habakkuk 3:2</verse></h3>




(b) O LORD, I have heard thy speech, [and] was afraid: O LORD, revive thy (c) work in the midst
of the years, in the midst of the years make known; in wrath remember mercy.



(b) Thus the people were afraid when they heard God's threatenings, and prayed.



(c) That is, the state of your Church which is now ready to perish, before it comes to half a perfect
age, which would be under Christ.
#BCV:Habakkuk 3:3
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 3:3>Habakkuk 3:3</verse></h3>



God came from (d) Teman, and the Holy One from mount Paran. Selah. His glory covered the
heavens, and the earth was full of his praise.



(d) Teman and Paran were near Sinai, where the Law was given: by which is signified that his
deliverance was as present now as it was then.
#BCV:Habakkuk 3:4
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 3:4>Habakkuk 3:4</verse></h3>



And [his] brightness was as the light; (e) he had horns [coming] out of his hand: and there [was] the
hiding of his power.



(e) By which is meant a power that was joined with his brightness, which was hidden to the rest of
the world, but was revealed at Mount Sinai to his people; (<bcv=Psa 31:16>Psa 31:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Habakkuk 3:6
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 3:6>Habakkuk 3:6</verse></h3>



He stood, and measured the earth: he beheld, and drove asunder the nations; and the everlasting
mountains were scattered, the perpetual hills did bow: his (f) ways [are] everlasting.



(f) Signifying that God has wonderful means, and always has a marvellous power when he will
deliver his Church.
#BCV:Habakkuk 3:7
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 3:7>Habakkuk 3:7</verse></h3>


<page=2308>(g) I saw the tents of Cushan in affliction: [and] the curtains of the land of Midian trembled.

(g) The iniquity of the king of Syria in vexing your people was made manifest by your judgment, to
the comfort of your Church, <bcv=Jdg 5:10>(Jdg 5:10),</bcv> and also of the Midianites, who destroyed themselves, <bcv=Jdg 7:22>(Jdg 7:22).</bcv>

#BCV:Habakkuk 3:8
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 3:8>Habakkuk 3:8</verse></h3>



Was the LORD displeased against the (h) rivers? [was] thy anger against the rivers? [was] thy wrath
against the sea, that thou didst ride (i) upon thy horses [and] thy chariots of salvation?



(h) Meaning that God was not angry with the waters, but that by this means he would destroy his
enemies, and deliver his Church.



(i) And so did use all the elements as instruments for the destruction of your enemies.
#BCV:Habakkuk 3:9
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 3:9>Habakkuk 3:9</verse></h3>



Thy (k) bow was made quite naked, [according] to the (l) oaths of the tribes, [even thy] word. Selah.
Thou (m) didst cleave the earth with rivers.



(k) That is, your power.



(l) For he had not only made a covenant with Abraham, but renewed it with his posterity.



(m) Read (<bcv=Num 20:11>Num 20:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Habakkuk 3:10
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 3:10>Habakkuk 3:10</verse></h3>



The mountains saw thee, [and] they trembled: the overflowing of the water (n) passed by: the deep
uttered his voice, [and] lifted up his hands on high.



(n) He alludes to the Red Sea and Jordan, which gave passage to God's people, and showed signs of
their obedience as it were by the lifting up of their hands.
#BCV:Habakkuk 3:11
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 3:11>Habakkuk 3:11</verse></h3>



The (o) sun [and] moon stood still in their habitation: (p) at the light of thy arrows they went, [and]
at the shining of thy glittering spear.



(o) As appears in (<bcv=Jos 10:12>Jos 10:12</bcv>).



(p) According to your command the sun was directed by the weapons of your people, that fought in
your cause, as though it dare not go forward.
#BCV:Habakkuk 3:13
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 3:13>Habakkuk 3:13</verse></h3>

#BCV:hab 3:13
<h3><verse=hab 3:13>hab 3:13</verse></h3>



didst wound the head out of the house of the wicked, by laying bare the foundation to the (r) neck.
Selah.



(q) Signifying that there is no salvation, except by Christ.



(r) From the top to the bottom you have destroyed the enemies.
#BCV:Habakkuk 3:14
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 3:14>Habakkuk 3:14</verse></h3>



Thou didst (s) strike through with his staffs the head of his villages: they came out as a whirlwind to
scatter me: their rejoicing [was] as to devour the poor secretly.



(s) God destroyed his enemies both great and small with their own weapons, though they were ever
so fierce against his Church.
#BCV:Habakkuk 3:16
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 3:16>Habakkuk 3:16</verse></h3>



When I (t) heard, my belly trembled; my lips quivered at the voice: rottenness entered into my bones,
and I trembled in myself, that I might rest in (u) the day of trouble: when he cometh up (x) to the
people, he will invade them with his troops.



(t) He returns to that which he spoke as in, (<bcv=Hab 3:2>Hab 3:2</bcv>) and shows how he was afraid of God's
judgments.



(u) He shows that the faithful can never have true rest, except that which they feel before the weight
of God's judgments.



(x) That is, the enemy, but the godly will be quiet, knowing that all things will turn to good for them.
#BCV:Habakkuk 3:18
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 3:18>Habakkuk 3:18</verse></h3>



Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy (y) in the God of my salvation.



(y) He declares in what the joy of the faithful consists, though they see ever so great afflictions
prepared.
#BCV:Habakkuk 3:19
<h3><verse=Habakkuk 3:19>Habakkuk 3:19</verse></h3>



The LORD God [is] my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' [feet], and he will make me to
walk upon my high places. (z) To the chief singer on my stringed instruments.



(z) The chief singer upon the instruments of music, will have occasion to praise God for this great
deliverance of his Church.

<h1>Zephaniah</h1>


<h2>Zephaniah 1</h2>

#BCV:Zephaniah 1:1
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 1:1>Zephaniah 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2311>The word of the LORD which came unto Zephaniah the son of Cushi, the son of Gedaliah, the
son of Amariah, the son of Hizkiah, in the days of Josiah the son of Amon, king of Judah.



The Argument - Seeing the great rebellion of the people, and that there was now no hope of
amendment, he gives notice of the great judgment of God, which was at hand, showing that their
country would be utterly destroyed, and they would be carried away captives by the Babylonians. Yet
for the comfort of the faithful he prophesied of God's vengeance against their enemies, such as the
Philistines, Moabites, Assyrians, and others, to assure them that God had a continual care over them.
And as the wicked would be punished for their sins and transgressions, so he exhorts the godly to
patience, and to trust to find mercy by reason of the free promise of God made to Abraham: and
therefore quietly to wait until God shows them the effect of that grace, by which in the end they
should be gathered to him, and counted as his people and children.
#BCV:Zephaniah 1:3
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 1:3>Zephaniah 1:3</verse></h3>



I will consume man and beast; I will consume the (a) fowls of the heaven, and the fishes of the sea,
and the stumblingblocks with the wicked; and I will cut off man from off the land, saith the LORD.



(a) Not that God was angry with these dumb creatures, but because man was so wicked for whose
cause they were created, God makes them to take part of the punishments with him.
#BCV:Zephaniah 1:4
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 1:4>Zephaniah 1:4</verse></h3>



I will also stretch out mine hand upon Judah, and upon all the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and I will
cut off the remnant of Baal from this place, [and] the name of the (b) Chemarims with the priests;



(b) Who were an order of superstitious priests appointed to minister in the service of Baal, and were
as his special chaplains; read (<bcv=II Ki 23:5>Kg2 23:5</bcv>;<bcv=Hos 10:5> Hos 10:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Zephaniah 1:5
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 1:5>Zephaniah 1:5</verse></h3>



And them that worship the host of heaven upon the housetops; and them that worship [and] that
swear by the LORD, and that swear by (c) Malcham;



(c) He alludes to their idol Molech, which was forbidden; read (<bcv=Lev 20:2>Lev 20:2</bcv>), yet they called him their
king, and made him as a god: therefore he here notes those that will both say they worship God, and
<page=2312>yet will swear by idols and serve them: which faltering is here condemned, as in 
(<bcv=Eze 20:39>Eze 20:39</bcv>; <bcv=1Kings 18:21=>Kg1 18:21</bcv>; <bcv=2Kings 17:33>Kg2 17:33</bcv>).
#BCV:Zephaniah 1:8
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 1:8>Zephaniah 1:8</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass in the day of the LORD'S sacrifice, that I will punish the princes, and the
king's children, and all such as are clothed with (d) strange apparel.



(d) Meaning, the courtiers, who did imitate the strange apparel of other nations to win their favour
by it, and to appear glorious in the eyes of all others; read (<bcv=Ezek 23:14-15>Eze 23:14-15</bcv>).
#BCV:Zephaniah 1:9
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 1:9>Zephaniah 1:9</verse></h3>



In the same day also will I punish all those that (e) leap on the threshold, which fill their masters'
houses with violence and deceit.



(e) He means the servants of the rulers who invade other men's houses, and rejoice and leap for joy,
when they can get any gain to please their master with.
#BCV:Zephaniah 1:10
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 1:10>Zephaniah 1:10</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the LORD, [that there shall be] the noise of a cry from
the (f) fish gate, and an howling from the second, and a great crashing from the hills.



(f) Signifying that all the corners of the city of Jerusalem would be full of trouble.
#BCV:Zephaniah 1:11
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 1:11>Zephaniah 1:11</verse></h3>



Howl, ye inhabitants of (g) Maktesh, for all the merchant people are cut down; all they that bear
silver are cut off.



(g) This is meant of the street of the merchants which was lower than the rest of the place around it.
#BCV:Zephaniah 1:12
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 1:12>Zephaniah 1:12</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass at that time, [that] I will search Jerusalem with (h) candles, and punish the
men that are settled (i) on their lees: that say in their heart, The LORD will not do good, neither will
he do evil.



(h) So that nothing will escape me.



(i) By their prosperity they are hardened in their wickedness.
#BCV:Zephaniah 1:14
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 1:14>Zephaniah 1:14</verse></h3>

#BCV:zep 1:14
<h3><verse=zep 1:14>zep 1:14</verse></h3>



the LORD: (k) the mighty man shall cry there bitterly.



(k) They that trusted in their own strength and condemned the Prophets of God.

<h2>Zephaniah 2</h2>

#BCV:Zephaniah 2:1
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 2:1>Zephaniah 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2314>Gather (a) yourselves together, yea, gather together, O nation not desired;



(a) He exhorts them to repentance, and wills them to descend into themselves and gather themselves,
lest they be scattered like chaff.
#BCV:Zephaniah 2:3
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 2:3>Zephaniah 2:3</verse></h3>



Seek ye the LORD, all ye meek of the earth, which (b) have wrought his judgment; seek
righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the LORD'S anger.



(b) That is, who have lived uprightly and godly according as he prescribes by his word.
#BCV:Zephaniah 2:4
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 2:4>Zephaniah 2:4</verse></h3>



For (c) Gaza shall be forsaken, and Ashkelon a desolation: they shall drive out Ashdod at the noon
day, and Ekron shall be rooted up.



(c) He comforts the faithful in that God would change his punishments from them to the Philistines
their enemies, and other nations.
#BCV:Zephaniah 2:5
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 2:5>Zephaniah 2:5</verse></h3>



Woe unto the inhabitants of the sea (d) coast, the nation of the Cherethites! the word of the LORD
[is] against you; O Canaan, the land of the Philistines, I will even destroy thee, that there shall be no
inhabitant.



(d) That is, Galilee: by these nations he means the people that dwelt near to the Jews, and instead of
friendship were their enemies: therefore he calls them Canaanites, whom the Lord appointed to be
slain.
#BCV:Zephaniah 2:7
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 2:7>Zephaniah 2:7</verse></h3>



And the coast shall be for the (e) remnant of the house of Judah; they shall feed thereupon: in the
houses of Ashkelon shall they lie down in the evening: for the LORD their God shall visit them,
and turn away their captivity.



(e) He shows why God would destroy their enemies, because their country would be a resting place
for his Church.
#BCV:Zephaniah 2:8
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 2:8>Zephaniah 2:8</verse></h3>

#BCV:zep 2:8
<h3><verse=zep 2:8>zep 2:8</verse></h3>



reproached my people, and (f) magnified [themselves] against their border.



(f) These nations presumed to take from the Jews that country which the Lord had given them.
#BCV:Zephaniah 2:11
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 2:11>Zephaniah 2:11</verse></h3>



The LORD [will be] terrible unto them: (g) for he will famish all the gods of the earth; and [men]
shall worship him, every one from his place, [even] all the isles of the heathen.



(g) When he will deliver his people and destroy their enemies and idols, his glory will shine
throughout all the world.
#BCV:Zephaniah 2:14
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 2:14>Zephaniah 2:14</verse></h3>



And flocks shall lie down in the midst of her, all the beasts of the nations: both the (h) cormorant
and the bittern shall lodge in the upper lintels of it; [their] voice shall sing in the windows; desolation
[shall be] in the thresholds: for he shall uncover the cedar work.



(h) Read (<bcv=Isa 34:11>Isa 34:11</bcv>)
#BCV:Zephaniah 2:15
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 2:15>Zephaniah 2:15</verse></h3>



This [is] the (i) rejoicing city that dwelt carelessly, that said in her heart, I [am], and [there is] none
beside me: how is she become a desolation, a place for beasts to lie down in! every one that passeth
by her shall hiss, [and] wag his hand.



(i) Meaning, Nineveh, which rejoicing so much of her strength and prosperity, should be thus made
waste, and God's people delivered.

<h2>Zephaniah 3</h2>

#BCV:Zephaniah 3:1
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 3:1>Zephaniah 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2316>Woe to her that is filthy and polluted, to the oppressing (a) city!



(a) That is, Jerusalem.
#BCV:Zephaniah 3:3
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 3:3>Zephaniah 3:3</verse></h3>



Her princes within her [are] roaring lions; her judges [are] evening wolves; they (b) gnaw not the
bones till the morrow.



(b) They are so greedy, that they eat up bones and all.
#BCV:Zephaniah 3:5
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 3:5>Zephaniah 3:5</verse></h3>



The (c) just LORD [is] in the midst thereof; he will not do iniquity: every morning doth he bring his
judgment to light, he faileth not; but the unjust knoweth no shame.



(c) The wicked thus boasted that God was ever among them, but the Prophet answers that that
cannot excuse their wickedness: for God will not bear with their sins. Yet he did patiently abide and
sent his Prophets continually to call them to repentance, but he profited nothing.
#BCV:Zephaniah 3:6
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 3:6>Zephaniah 3:6</verse></h3>



I have (d) cut off the nations: their towers are desolate; I made their streets waste, that none passeth
by: their cities are destroyed, so that there is no man, that there is none inhabitant.



(d) By the destruction of other nations he shows that the Jews should have learned to fear God.
#BCV:Zephaniah 3:7
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 3:7>Zephaniah 3:7</verse></h3>



I said, Surely thou wilt fear me, thou wilt receive instruction; so their dwelling should not be cut off,
howsoever I punished them: but (e) they rose early, [and] corrupted all their doings.



(e) They were most earnest and ready to do wickedly.
#BCV:Zephaniah 3:8
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 3:8>Zephaniah 3:8</verse></h3>



Therefore (f) wait ye upon me, saith the LORD, until the day that I rise up to the prey: for my
determination [is] to gather the nations, that I may assemble the kingdoms, to pour upon them mine
indignation, [even] all my fierce anger: for all the earth shall be devoured with the fire of my jealousy.

<page=2317>(f) Seeing that you will not repent, you can expect my vengeance as well as other nations.
#BCV:Zephaniah 3:9
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 3:9>Zephaniah 3:9</verse></h3>



For (g) then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the name of the
LORD, to serve him with one consent.



(g) Lest any should then think that God's glory should have perished when Judah was destroyed, he
shows that he will proclaim his grace through all the world.
#BCV:Zephaniah 3:10
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 3:10>Zephaniah 3:10</verse></h3>



From beyond the rivers of Ethiopia my suppliants, [even] the (h) daughter of my dispersed, shall
bring mine offering.



(h) That is, the Jews will come as well as the Gentiles: which is to be understood as referring to the
time of the Gospel.
#BCV:Zephaniah 3:11
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 3:11>Zephaniah 3:11</verse></h3>



In that day shalt thou not be ashamed for (i) all thy doings, wherein thou hast transgressed against
me: for then I will take away out of the midst of thee them that rejoice in thy pride, and thou shalt
no more be haughty because of my holy mountain.



(i) For they will have full remission of their sins, and the hypocrites who boasted of the temple,
which was also your pride in times past, will be taken from you.
#BCV:Zephaniah 3:15
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 3:15>Zephaniah 3:15</verse></h3>



The LORD hath taken away thy (k) judgments, he hath cast out thine (l) enemy: the king of Israel,
[even] the LORD, [is] in the midst of (m) thee: thou shalt not see evil any more.



(k) That is, the punishment for your sin.



(l) As the Assyrians, Chaldaeans, Egyptians, and other nations.



(m) To defend you, as by your sins you have put him away, and left yourself naked, as in (<bcv=Exo 32:25>Exo 32:25</bcv>).
#BCV:Zephaniah 3:17
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 3:17>Zephaniah 3:17</verse></h3>



The LORD thy God in the midst of thee [is] mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy;
he will rest in (n) his love, he will joy over thee with singing.



(n) Signifying, that God delights to show his love and great affection toward his Church.
#BCV:Zephaniah 3:18
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 3:18>Zephaniah 3:18</verse></h3>

<page=2318>I will gather [them that are] sorrowful for the solemn assembly, [who] are of thee, [to whom] the
reproach of (o) it [was] a burden.



(o) That is, those that were held in hatred and reviled for the Church, and because of their religion.
#BCV:Zephaniah 3:19
<h3><verse=Zephaniah 3:19>Zephaniah 3:19</verse></h3>



Behold, at that time I will undo all that afflict thee: and I will (p) save her that halteth, and gather her
that was driven out; and I will get them praise and fame in every (q) land where they have been put
to shame.



(p) I will deliver the Church, which now is afflicted, as in (<bcv=Mic 4:6>Mic 4:6</bcv>).



(q) As among the Assyrians and Chaldaeans, who mocked them and put them to shame.

<h1>Haggai</h1>


<h2>Haggai 1</h2>

#BCV:Haggai 1:1
<h3><verse=Haggai 1:1>Haggai 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2319>In the second year of (a) Darius the king, in the sixth month, in the first day of the month, came the
word of the LORD by Haggai the prophet unto (b) Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of
Judah, and to Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, saying,



The Argument - When the time of the seventy years captivity prophesied by Jeremiah was expired,
God raised up Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, to comfort the Jews, and to exhort them to the
building of the temple, which was a figure of the spiritual Temple and Church of God, whose
perfection and excellency depended on Christ. And because all were given to their own pleasures
and benefits, he declares that that plague of famine, which God then sent among them, was a just
reward for their ingratitude, in that they condemned God's honour, who had delivered them. Yet he
comforts them, if they will return to the Lord, with the promise of great felicity, since the Lord will
finish the work that he has begun, and send Christ whom he had promised, and by whom they
would attain to perfect joy and glory.



(a) Who was the son of Histaspis and the third king of the Persians, as some think.



(b) Because the building of the temple began to cease, by reason that the people were discouraged
by their enemies: and if these two notable men had need to be stirred up and admonished of their
duties, what will we think of other governors, whose doings are either against God, or very cold in
his cause?
#BCV:Haggai 1:2
<h3><verse=Haggai 1:2>Haggai 1:2</verse></h3>



Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, This people say, The time is not come, the time (c) that
the LORD'S house should be built.

(c) Not that they condemned the building of it, but they preferred policy and personal profit to
religion, being content with small beginnings.

#BCV:Haggai 1:4
<h3><verse=Haggai 1:4>Haggai 1:4</verse></h3>

[Is it] time for you, O ye, to dwell in your (d) cieled houses, and this house [lie] waste?

(d) Showing that they sought not only their necessities, but their very pleasures before God's honour.

#BCV:Haggai 1:6
<h3><verse=Haggai 1:6>Haggai 1:6</verse></h3>

<page=2320>(e) Ye have sown much, and bring in little; ye eat, but ye have not enough; ye drink, but ye are not
filled with drink; ye clothe you, but there is none warm; and he that earneth wages earneth wages [to
put it] into a bag with holes.

(e) Consider the plagues of God upon you for preferring your policies to his religion, and because
you do not seek him above all else.

#BCV:Haggai 1:8
<h3><verse=Haggai 1:8>Haggai 1:8</verse></h3>

Go (f) up to the mountain, and bring wood, and build the house; and (g) I will take pleasure in it,
and I will (h) be glorified, saith the LORD.

(f) Meaning, that they should leave their own benefits, and go forward in the building of God's
temple, and in the setting forth of his religion.

(g) That is, I will hear your prayers according to my promise; (<bcv=I Ki 8:22>Kg1 8:22</bcv>, <bcv=1Ki 8:29>Kg1 8:29).</bcv>

(h) That is, my glory will be set forth by you.

#BCV:Haggai 1:9
<h3><verse=Haggai 1:9>Haggai 1:9</verse></h3>

Ye looked for much, and, lo, [it came] to little; and when ye brought [it] home, I did blow (i) upon it.
Why? saith the LORD of hosts. Because of mine house that [is] waste, and ye run every man unto
his own house.

(i) And so bring it to nothing.

#BCV:Haggai 1:12
<h3><verse=Haggai 1:12>Haggai 1:12</verse></h3>

Then Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, with all the
remnant of the people, obeyed the (k) voice of the LORD their God, and the words of Haggai the
prophet, as the LORD their God had sent him, and the people did fear before the LORD.

(k) This declares that God was the author of the doctrine, and that Haggai was but the minister, as
in (<bcv=Exo 14:31>Exo 14:31</bcv>), <bcv=Jdg 7:20>(Jdg 7:20;</bcv><bcv=Acts 15:28> Act 15:28</bcv>).

#BCV:Haggai 1:14
<h3><verse=Haggai 1:14>Haggai 1:14</verse></h3>

And the LORD stirred up (l) the spirit of Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and
the spirit of Joshua the son of Josedech, the high priest, and the spirit of all the remnant of the
people; and they came and did work in the house of the LORD of hosts, their God,



(l) Which declares that men are unable and dull to serve the Lord, neither can they obey his word or
his messengers, before God reforms their hearts, and gives them new spirits; (<bcv=John 6:44>Joh 6:44</bcv>).

<h2>Haggai 2</h2>

#BCV:Haggai 2:3
<h3><verse=Haggai 2:3>Haggai 2:3</verse></h3>

<page=2321>Who [is] left among you that saw this (a) house in her first glory? and how do ye see it now? [is it]
not in your eyes in comparison of it as nothing?

(a) For the people according as had been prophesied in (<bcv=Isa 2:2>Isa 2:2</bcv>) and <bcv=Eze 41:1-26>(Eze. 41:1-26),</bcv> thought this
temple should have been more excellent than Solomon's temple, which was destroyed by the
Babylonians, but the Prophets meant the spiritual Temple, the Church of Christ.

#BCV:Haggai 2:4
<h3><verse=Haggai 2:4>Haggai 2:4</verse></h3>

Yet now be strong, O Zerubbabel, saith the LORD; and be strong, O Joshua, son of Josedech, the
high priest; and be strong, all ye people of the land, saith the LORD, and (b) work: for I [am] with
you, saith the LORD of hosts:

(b) That is, go forward in building the temple.
#BCV:Haggai 2:6
<h3><verse=Haggai 2:6>Haggai 2:6</verse></h3>

For thus saith the LORD of hosts; (c) Yet once, it [is] a little while, and I will shake the heavens, and
the earth, and the sea, and the dry [land];

(c) He exhorts them to patience though they do not see as yet this temple so glorious as the
Prophets had declared: for this should be accomplished in Christ, by whom all things should be
renewed.

#BCV:Haggai 2:7
<h3><verse=Haggai 2:7>Haggai 2:7</verse></h3>

And I will shake all nations, and (d) the desire of all nations shall come: and I will fill this house with
glory, saith the LORD of hosts.

(d) Meaning Christ, whom all ought to look for and desire: or by desire he may signify all precious
things, such as riches, and things like them.
#BCV:Haggai 2:8
<h3><verse=Haggai 2:8>Haggai 2:8</verse></h3>

The (e) silver [is] mine, and the gold [is] mine, saith the LORD of hosts.

(e) Therefore when his time comes he can make all the treasures of the world to serve his purpose:
but the glory of this second Temple does not consist of material things, neither can it be built.
#BCV:Haggai 2:9
<h3><verse=Haggai 2:9>Haggai 2:9</verse></h3>

<page=2322>The glory of this latter house shall be greater than of the former, saith the LORD of hosts: and in
this place will I give (f) peace, saith the LORD of hosts.

(f) Meaning all spiritual blessings and felicity purchased by Christ; 
(<bcv=Philip 4:7>Philip 4:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Haggai 2:12
<h3><verse=Haggai 2:12>Haggai 2:12</verse></h3>

If one bear (g) holy flesh in the skirt of his garment, and with his skirt do touch bread, or pottage,
or wine, or oil, or any meat, shall it be holy? And the priests answered and said, No.

(g) That is, the flesh of the sacrifices, by which he means that a thing which of itself is good, cannot
make another thing so: and therefore they ought not to justify themselves by their sacrifices and
ceremonies: but contrary to this, he that is unclean and not pure of heart, does corrupt those things
and make them detestable to God, which otherwise are good and godly.
#BCV:Haggai 2:15
<h3><verse=Haggai 2:15>Haggai 2:15</verse></h3>



And now, I pray you, consider from this (h) day and upward, from before a stone was laid upon a
stone in the temple of the LORD:



(h) Consider how God plagued you with famine before you began to build the temple.
#BCV:Haggai 2:16
<h3><verse=Haggai 2:16>Haggai 2:16</verse></h3>




(i) Since those [days] were, when [one] came to an heap of twenty [measures], there were [but] ten:
when [one] came to the pressfat for to draw out fifty [vessels] out of the press, there were [but]
twenty.



(i) That is, before the building was begun.
#BCV:Haggai 2:18
<h3><verse=Haggai 2:18>Haggai 2:18</verse></h3>



Consider now from (k) this day and upward, from the four and twentieth day of the ninth [month,
even] from the day that the foundation of the LORD'S temple was laid, consider [it].



(k) From the time they began to build the temple, he promises that God would bless them: and even
though the fruit has not yet come forth, yet in the gathering they would have plenty.
#BCV:Haggai 2:19
<h3><verse=Haggai 2:19>Haggai 2:19</verse></h3>

<page=2323>Is the (l) seed yet in the barn? yea, as yet the vine, and the fig tree, and the pomegranate, and the
olive tree, hath not brought forth: from this day will I bless [you].



(l) He exhorts them to have patience, and to remain until the harvest came, and then they would see
God's blessings.
#BCV:Haggai 2:21
<h3><verse=Haggai 2:21>Haggai 2:21</verse></h3>



Speak to Zerubbabel, governor of Judah, saying, I (m) will shake the heavens and the earth;



(m) I will make a change, and renew all things in Christ, of whom Zerubbabel is here a figure.
#BCV:Haggai 2:22
<h3><verse=Haggai 2:22>Haggai 2:22</verse></h3>



And I will overthrow the throne of kingdoms, and I will destroy the strength of the (n) kingdoms
of the heathen; and I will overthrow the chariots, and those that ride in them; and the horses and
their riders shall come down, every one by the sword of his brother.



(n) By this he shows that there will be no stop or hindrance, when God will make this wonderful
restitution of his Church.
#BCV:Haggai 2:23
<h3><verse=Haggai 2:23>Haggai 2:23</verse></h3>



In that day, saith the LORD of hosts, will I take thee, O Zerubbabel, my servant, the son of
Shealtiel, saith the LORD, and will make thee as a (o) signet: for I have chosen thee, saith the LORD
of hosts.



(o) Signifying that his dignity would be most excellent, which thing was accomplished in Christ.

<h1>Zechariah</h1>


<h2>Zechariah 1</h2>

#BCV:Zechariah 1:1
<h3><verse=Zechariah 1:1>Zechariah 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2325>In the eighth month, in the second year of (a) Darius, came the word of the LORD unto (b)
Zechariah, the son of Berechiah, the son of Iddo the prophet, saying,



The Argument - Two months after Haggai had begun to prophesy, Zechariah was also sent of the
Lord to help him in the labour, and to confirm the same doctrine. First therefore, he puts them in
remembrance for what reason God had so severely punished their fathers: and yet comforts them if
they will truly repent, and not abuse this great benefit of God in their deliverance which was a figure
of that true deliverance, that all the faithful should have from death and sin, by Christ. But because
they remained still in their wickedness, and lack of desire to set forth God's glory, and were not yet
made better by their long banishment, he rebukes them most sharply: yet for the comfort of the
repentant, he ever mixes the promise of grace, that they might by this means be prepared to receive
Christ, in whom all should be sanctified to the Lord.



(a) Who was the son of Histaspis.



(b) This was not the Zechariah, of which mention is made in (<bcv=2Ch 24:20>Ch2 24:20</bcv>), but he had the same name,
and is called the son of Berechiah, as he was, because he came of those progenitors, as of Joiada or
Berechiah, and Iddo.

#BCV:Zechariah 1:2
<h3><verse=Zechariah 1:2>Zechariah 1:2</verse></h3>



The LORD hath been (c) sore displeased with your fathers.



(c) He speaks this to make them afraid of God's judgments, so that they should not provoke him as
their fathers had done, whom he so grievously punished.
#BCV:Zechariah 1:3
<h3><verse=Zechariah 1:3>Zechariah 1:3</verse></h3>



Therefore say thou unto them, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; (d) Turn ye unto me, saith the
LORD of hosts, and I will turn unto you, saith the LORD of hosts.



(d) Let your fruits declare that you are God's people, and that he has wrought in you by his Spirit,
and mortified you: for otherwise man has no power to return to God, but God must convert him;



(<bcv=Jer 31:18>Jer 31:18</bcv>;<bcv=Lam 5:21> Lam 5:21</bcv>) See<bcv=Isa 31:6> Isa 31:6</bcv>
#BCV:Zechariah 1:5
<h3><verse=Zechariah 1:5>Zechariah 1:5</verse></h3>

<page=2326>Your fathers, where (e) [are] they? and the prophets, do they live for ever?



(e) Though your fathers are dead, yet God's judgments in punishing them ought still to be before
your eyes: and though the prophets are dead, yet their doctrine remains for ever; (<bcv=2Pe 1:15>Pe2 1:15</bcv>).

#BCV:Zechariah 1:6
<h3><verse=Zechariah 1:6>Zechariah 1:6</verse></h3>



But my words and my statutes, which I commanded my servants the prophets, did they not take
hold of (f) your fathers? and (g) they returned and said, Like as the LORD of hosts thought to do
unto us, according to our ways, and according to our doings, so hath he dealt with us.



(f) Seeing you saw the force of my doctrine in punishing your fathers, why do you not fear the
threatenings contained in the same, and declared by my Prophets?



(g) As men astonished with my judgments, and not that they were touched with true repentance.
#BCV:Zechariah 1:7
<h3><verse=Zechariah 1:7>Zechariah 1:7</verse></h3>



Upon the four and twentieth day of the eleventh month, which [is] the month (h) Sebat, in the
second year of Darius, came the word of the LORD unto Zechariah, the son of Berechiah, the son
of Iddo the prophet, saying,



(h) Which includes part of January and part of February.
#BCV:Zechariah 1:8
<h3><verse=Zechariah 1:8>Zechariah 1:8</verse></h3>



I (i) saw by night, and behold (k) a man riding upon a red horse, and he stood among the myrtle
trees that [were] in the bottom; and behind him [were there] (l) red horses, speckled, and white.



(i) This vision signifies the restoration of the Church: but as yet it would not appear to man's eyes,
which is here meant by the night, by the bottom, and by the myrtle trees, which are black, and give a
dark shadow. Yet he compares God to a King who has his posts and messengers abroad, by whom
he still works his purpose and brings his matters to pass.



(k) Who was the chief among the rest of the horsemen.



(l) These signify the various offices of God's angels, by whom God sometimes punishes, and
sometimes comforts, and brings forth his works in various ways.
#BCV:Zechariah 1:12
<h3><verse=Zechariah 1:12>Zechariah 1:12</verse></h3>



Then the (m) angel of the LORD answered and said, O LORD of hosts, how long wilt thou not
have mercy on Jerusalem and on the cities of Judah, against which thou hast had indignation these
threescore and ten years?

<page=2327>(m) That is, Christ the mediator prayed for the salvation of his Church, which was now troubled,
when all the countries about them were at rest.
#BCV:Zechariah 1:14
<h3><verse=Zechariah 1:14>Zechariah 1:14</verse></h3>



So the angel that talked with me said to me, Cry thou, saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; I am



(n) jealous for Jerusalem and for Zion with a great jealousy.



(n) Though for a time God defers his help and comfort from his Church, yet this declares that he
still loves them most dearly, as a most merciful father his children, or a husband his wife, and when it
is expedient for them, his help is ever ready.
#BCV:Zechariah 1:15
<h3><verse=Zechariah 1:15>Zechariah 1:15</verse></h3>



And I am very greatly displeased with the nations [that are] at ease: for I was but (o) a little
displeased, and they helped forward the affliction.



(o) In destroying the reprobate, I showed myself but a little angry toward my Church, but the enemy
would have destroyed them also, and did not consider the goal of my chastisements.
#BCV:Zechariah 1:16
<h3><verse=Zechariah 1:16>Zechariah 1:16</verse></h3>



Therefore thus saith the LORD; I have returned to Jerusalem with mercies: my house shall be built
in it, saith the LORD of hosts, and a line (p) shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem.



(p) To measure out the buildings.
#BCV:Zechariah 1:17
<h3><verse=Zechariah 1:17>Zechariah 1:17</verse></h3>



Cry yet, saying, Thus saith the LORD of hosts; My cities through prosperity shall yet (q) be spread
abroad; and the LORD shall yet comfort Zion, and shall yet choose Jerusalem.



(q) The abundance will be so great, that the places of storage will not be able to contain these
blessings that God will send, but will even break because of fullness.
#BCV:Zechariah 1:18
<h3><verse=Zechariah 1:18>Zechariah 1:18</verse></h3>



Then I lifted up my eyes, and saw, and behold (r) four horns.



(r) Which signifies all the enemies of the Church: east, west, north, and south.
#BCV:Zechariah 1:20
<h3><verse=Zechariah 1:20>Zechariah 1:20</verse></h3>

<page=2328>And the LORD showed me four (s) craftsmen.



(s) These craftsmen or smiths are God's instruments, who with their mallets and hammers break
these hard and strong horns which would overthrow the Church, and declare that no enemies' horn
is so strong, but God has a hammer to break it in pieces.

<h2>Zechariah 2</h2>

#BCV:Zechariah 2:1
<h3><verse=Zechariah 2:1>Zechariah 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2329>I lifted up my eyes again, and looked, and behold a (a) man with a measuring line in his hand.



(a) This is the angel who was Christ: for in respect of his office he is often called an angel, but in
respect of his eternal essence, is God, and so called.
#BCV:Zechariah 2:4
<h3><verse=Zechariah 2:4>Zechariah 2:4</verse></h3>



And said to him, Run, speak to this (b) young man, saying, (c) Jerusalem shall be inhabited [as]
towns without walls for the multitude of men and cattle in it:



(b) Meaning himself, Zechariah.



(c) Signifying the spiritual Jerusalem and Church under Christ, which would be extended by the
Gospel through all the world, and would need no material walls, nor trust in any worldly strength,
but would be safely preserved and dwell in peace among all their enemies.
#BCV:Zechariah 2:5
<h3><verse=Zechariah 2:5>Zechariah 2:5</verse></h3>



For I, saith the LORD, will be to her a wall of (d) fire on every side, and will (e) be the glory in the
midst of her.



(d) To defend my Church, to strike fear in the enemies, and to destroy them if they approach near.



(e) In me they will have their full felicity and glory.
#BCV:Zechariah 2:6
<h3><verse=Zechariah 2:6>Zechariah 2:6</verse></h3>



Ho, ho, [come (f) forth], and flee from the land of the north, saith the LORD: for I have spread you
abroad as the four (g) winds of the heaven, saith the LORD.



(f) He calls to those who partly for fear, and partly for their own case, remained still in captivity, and
so preferred their own personal benefits to the benefits of God promised in his Church.



(g) As it was I that scattered you, so I have power to restore you.
#BCV:Zechariah 2:7
<h3><verse=Zechariah 2:7>Zechariah 2:7</verse></h3>




(h) Deliver thyself, O Zion, that dwellest [with] the daughter of Babylon.



(h) By fleeing from Babylon, and coming to the Church.
#BCV:Zechariah 2:8
<h3><verse=Zechariah 2:8>Zechariah 2:8</verse></h3>

#BCV:zac 2:8
<h3><verse=zac 2:8>zac 2:8</verse></h3>



you: for he that toucheth you toucheth the (k) apple of his eye.



(i) Seeing that God had begun to show his grace among you by delivering you, he continues the
same still toward you, and therefore sends me his angel and his Christ to defend you from your
enemies, so that they will not hurt you, neither along the way nor at home.



(k) You are so dear to God, that he can no more allow your enemies to hurt you, than a man can
endure to be thrust in the eye; (<bcv=Psa 17:8>Psa 17:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 2:9
<h3><verse=Zechariah 2:9>Zechariah 2:9</verse></h3>



For, behold, I will shake my hand (l) upon them, and (m) they shall be a spoil to their servants: and
ye shall know that the LORD of hosts hath (n) sent me.



(l) Upon the heathen your enemies.



(m) They will be your servants, as you have been theirs.



(n) This must necessarily be understood of Christ, who being God equal with his Father, was sent,
as he was Mediator to dwell in his Church and to govern them.

<h2>Zechariah 3</h2>

#BCV:Zechariah 3:1
<h3><verse=Zechariah 3:1>Zechariah 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2331>And he showed me Joshua the high priest (a) standing before the angel of the LORD, and (b) Satan
standing at his right hand to resist him.



(a) He prayed to Christ the Mediator for the state of the Church.



(b) Which declares that the faithful do not only war with flesh and blood, but with Satan himself,
and spiritual wickedness; (<bcv=Eph 6:12>Eph 6:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 3:2
<h3><verse=Zechariah 3:2>Zechariah 3:2</verse></h3>



And the (c) LORD said to Satan, The LORD rebuke thee, O Satan; even the LORD that hath
chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: [is] not this a (d) brand plucked out of the fire?



(c) That is, Christ speaks to God as the mediator of his Church, that he would rebuke Satan: and
here he shows himself to be the continual preserver of his Church.



(d) Meaning that Joshua was wonderfully preserved in the captivity, and now Satan sought to afflict
and trouble him when he was doing his office.
#BCV:Zechariah 3:3
<h3><verse=Zechariah 3:3>Zechariah 3:3</verse></h3>



Now Joshua was clothed with (e) filthy garments, and stood before the angel.



(e) With regard to the glorious garments and precious stones that the priests wore before the
captivity: and by this contemptible state the Prophet signifies, that these small beginnings would be
made excellent when Christ will make the full restitution of his Church.
#BCV:Zechariah 3:4
<h3><verse=Zechariah 3:4>Zechariah 3:4</verse></h3>



And he answered and spoke to those that stood before him, saying, Take away the (e) filthy
garments from him. And to him he said, Behold, I have (f) caused thy iniquity to pass from thee,
and I will clothe thee with change of raiment.



(e) See<bcv=Zec 3:3> Zac 3:3</bcv>



(f) He shows of what apparel he speaks, which is, when our filthy sins are taken away, and we are
clothed with God's mercies, which refers to the spiritual restitution.
#BCV:Zechariah 3:5
<h3><verse=Zechariah 3:5>Zechariah 3:5</verse></h3>

<page=2332>And I said, Let them (g) set a clean mitre upon his head. So they set a clean mitre upon his head, and
clothed him with garments. And the angel of the LORD stood by.



(g) The Prophet prays that besides the raiment, the Priest might also have attire for his head
accordingly, that is, that the dignity of the priesthood might be perfect: and this was fulfilled in
Christ, who was both Priest and King. And here all those are condemned, that can content
themselves with any average reformation in religion, seeing the Prophet desires the perfection, and
obtains it.
#BCV:Zechariah 3:7
<h3><verse=Zechariah 3:7>Zechariah 3:7</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD of hosts; If thou wilt walk in my ways, and if thou wilt keep my charge, then
thou shalt also (h) judge my house, and shalt also keep my (i) courts, and I will give thee places to
walk among (k) these that stand by.



(h) That is, have rule and government in my Church, as your predecessors have had.



(i) By which he means to have the whole charge and ministry of the Church.



(k) That is, the angels, who represented the whole number of the faithful: signifying that all the
godly would willingly receive him.
#BCV:Zechariah 3:8
<h3><verse=Zechariah 3:8>Zechariah 3:8</verse></h3>



Hear now, O Joshua the high priest, thou, and thy fellows that sit before thee: for they (l) [are] men
wondered at: for, behold, I will bring forth my servant the (m) BRANCH.



(l) Because they follow my word, they are condemned in the world, and esteemed as monsters.
See<bcv=Isa 8:18> Isa 8:18</bcv>



(m) That is, Christ, who did so humble himself, that he not only became the servant of God, but
also the servant of men: and therefore in him they should have comfort, even though in the world
they are condemned; (<bcv=Isa 11:1>Isa 11:1</bcv>) (<bcv=Jer 23:5>Jer 23:5</bcv>;<bcv=Jer 33:14-15> Jer 33:14-15</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 3:9
<h3><verse=Zechariah 3:9>Zechariah 3:9</verse></h3>



For behold the (n) stone that I have laid before Joshua; upon one stone [shall be] seven eyes: behold,
I (o) will engrave the engraving of it, saith the LORD of hosts, and I will (p) remove the iniquity of
that land in one day.



(n) He shows that the ministers cannot build before God lay the first stone, which is Christ, who is
full of eyes, both because he gives light to all others, and that all ought to seek light from him; (Zac
4:10).



(o) That is, I will make perfect in all points, as a thing done by the hand of God.

<page=2333>(p) Though I have punished this land for a time, yet I will even now be pacified, and punish their
sins no more.
#BCV:Zechariah 3:10
<h3><verse=Zechariah 3:10>Zechariah 3:10</verse></h3>



In that day, saith the LORD of hosts, shall ye call every man his neighbour under the (q) vine and
under the fig tree.



(q) You will then live in peace and quietness, that is, in the kingdom of Christ; (<bcv=Isa 2:2>Isa 2:2</bcv>;<bcv=Mic 4:4> Mic 4:4</bcv>; Hag
2:9).

<h2>Zechariah 4</h2>

#BCV:Zechariah 4:2
<h3><verse=Zechariah 4:2>Zechariah 4:2</verse></h3>

<page=2334>And said to me, What seest thou? And I said, I have looked, and behold a (a) lamp stand all [of] gold,
with a bowl upon the top of it, and its seven lamps, and seven (b) pipes to the seven lamps, which
[were] upon the top of it:



(a) Which was ever in the midst of the temple, signifying that the graces of God's Spirit would shine,
here in most abundance, and in all perfection.



(b) Which conveyed the oil that dropped from the trees into the lamps, so that the light never went
out: and this vision was to strengthen and encourage the faithful that God had sufficient power in
himself to continue his graces, and to bring his promise to pass even though he had no help from
man.
#BCV:Zechariah 4:6
<h3><verse=Zechariah 4:6>Zechariah 4:6</verse></h3>



Then he answered and spoke to me, saying, This [is] the word of the LORD to (c) Zerubbabel,
saying, Not by (d) might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts.



(c) Who was a figure of Christ, and therefore this doctrine was directed to all the Church who are
his body and members.



(d) He shows that God's power alone is sufficient to preserve his Church, even though he does not
use man's help to do it.
#BCV:Zechariah 4:7
<h3><verse=Zechariah 4:7>Zechariah 4:7</verse></h3>



Who [art] thou, O (e) great mountain? before Zerubbabel [thou shalt become] a plain: and (f) he
shall bring forth its headstone [with] shoutings, [crying], Grace, grace to it.



(e) He compares the power of the adversaries to a great mountain, who thought the Jews were
nothing with regard to them, and would have hindered Zerubbabel, who represented Christ, whom
the enemies daily labour to stop in the building of his spiritual Temple, but all in vain.



(f) Though the enemies think to stop this building, yet Zerubbabel will lay the highest stone of it,
and bring it to perfection, so that all the godly will rejoice, and pray to God that he would continue
his grace and favour toward the Temple.
#BCV:Zechariah 4:9
<h3><verse=Zechariah 4:9>Zechariah 4:9</verse></h3>



The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this house; his hands shall also finish it; and



(g) thou shalt know that the LORD of hosts hath sent me to you.

<page=2335>(g) Meaning, the Prophet, that I am Christ sent from my Father for the building and preservation of
my spiritual temple.
#BCV:Zechariah 4:10
<h3><verse=Zechariah 4:10>Zechariah 4:10</verse></h3>



For who hath despised the day of (h) small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the (i)
plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel [with] those seven; (k) they [are] the eyes of the LORD, which
run to and fro through the whole earth.



(h) Signifying that all were discouraged at the small and poor beginnings of the temple.



(i) By which he signifies the plummet and line, that is, that Zerubbabel who represented Christ,
would go forward with his building to the joy and comfort of the godly, though the world was
against him, and though his own for a while were discouraged, because they do not see things
pleasant to the eye.



(k) That is, God has seven eyes: meaning, a continual providence, so that neither Satan nor any
power in the world, can go about to bring anything to pass to hinder his work; (<bcv=Zec 5:9>Zac 5:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 4:14
<h3><verse=Zechariah 4:14>Zechariah 4:14</verse></h3>



Then said he, These [are] the two (l) anointed ones, that stand by the Lord of the whole earth.



(l) Which were always green and full of oil, so that still they poured forth oil into the lamps:
signifying, that God will continually maintain and preserve his Church, and endue it still with
abundance and perfection of grace.

<h2>Zechariah 5</h2>

#BCV:Zechariah 5:2
<h3><verse=Zechariah 5:2>Zechariah 5:2</verse></h3>

<page=2336>And he said to me, What seest thou? And I answered, I see a flying (a) scroll; its length [is] twenty
cubits, and its breadth ten cubits.



(a) Because the Jews had provoked God's plagues by condemning his word, and casting off all
judgment and equity, he shows that God's curses written in this book had justly happened both to
them and their fathers. But now if they would repent, God would send the same among the
Chaldeans and their former enemies.
#BCV:Zechariah 5:3
<h3><verse=Zechariah 5:3>Zechariah 5:3</verse></h3>



Then said he to me, This [is] the curse that goeth forth over the face of the whole earth: for every
one that (b) stealeth shall be cut off [as] on this (c) side according to it; and every one that (d)
sweareth shall be cut off [as] on that side according to it.



(b) That is, does any injury toward his neighbour.



(c) Meaning, wherever he is in the world.



(d) He that transgresses the first table of the ten commandments, and does not serve God correctly
but abuses his name.
#BCV:Zechariah 5:6
<h3><verse=Zechariah 5:6>Zechariah 5:6</verse></h3>



And I said, What [is] it? And he said, This [is] an (e) ephah that goeth forth. He said moreover, This
[is] their (f) resemblance through all the earth.



(e) Which was a measure in dry things, containing about five gallons.



(f) That is, all the wickedness of the ungodly is in God's sight, which he keeps in a measure, and can
shut it or open it at his pleasure.
#BCV:Zechariah 5:7
<h3><verse=Zechariah 5:7>Zechariah 5:7</verse></h3>



And, behold, there was lifted up a (g) talent of lead: and this [is] a (h) woman that sitteth in the
midst of the ephah.



(g) To cover the measure.



(h) Which represents iniquity, as in the next verse.
#BCV:Zechariah 5:8
<h3><verse=Zechariah 5:8>Zechariah 5:8</verse></h3>

<page=2337>And he said, This [is] (i) wickedness. And he cast it into the midst of the ephah; and he cast the
weight of lead upon its mouth.



(i) Signifying that Satan would not have such power against the Jews to tempt them, as he had in
times past, but that God would shut up iniquity in a measure as in a prison.
#BCV:Zechariah 5:9
<h3><verse=Zechariah 5:9>Zechariah 5:9</verse></h3>



Then I lifted up my eyes, and looked, and, behold, there came out two (k) women, and the wind [was]
in their wings; for they had wings like the wings of a stork: and they lifted up the ephah between the
earth and the heaven.



(k) Which declared that God would execute his judgment by the means of the weak and infirm.
#BCV:Zechariah 5:11
<h3><verse=Zechariah 5:11>Zechariah 5:11</verse></h3>



And he said to me, To build for it an house in the land of (l) Shinar: and it shall be established, and
set there upon her own base.



(l) To remove the iniquity and affliction that came from Judah because of the judgment, to place it
forever in Babylon.

<h2>Zechariah 6</h2>

#BCV:Zechariah 6:1
<h3><verse=Zechariah 6:1>Zechariah 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=2338>And I turned, and lifted up my eyes, and looked, and, behold, there came four (a) chariots out from
between (b) two mountains; and the mountains [were] mountains of brass.



(a) By chariots here, as by horses before, he means the swift messengers of God to execute and
declare his will.



(b) By the mountains he means the external counsel and providence of God, by which he has from
before all eternity declared what will come to pass, and that which neither Satan nor all the world
can alter.
#BCV:Zechariah 6:2
<h3><verse=Zechariah 6:2>Zechariah 6:2</verse></h3>



In the first chariot [were] (c) red horses; and in the second chariot (d) black horses;



(c) Which signifies the great cruelty and persecution that the Church had endured under different
enemies.



(d) Signifying that they had endured great afflictions under the Babylonians.
#BCV:Zechariah 6:3
<h3><verse=Zechariah 6:3>Zechariah 6:3</verse></h3>



And in the third chariot (e) white horses; and in the fourth chariot (f) spotted and bay horses.



(e) These represented their state under the Persians, who restored them to their liberty.



(f) Which signified that God would sometimes give his Church rest, and pour his plagues upon their
enemies, as he did in destroying Nineveh and Babylon, and other of their enemies.
#BCV:Zechariah 6:5
<h3><verse=Zechariah 6:5>Zechariah 6:5</verse></h3>



And the angel answered and said to me, These [are] the four (g) spirits of the heavens, which go
forth from standing before the Lord of all the earth.



(g) Meaning, all the actions and motions of God's Spirit, whom according to his unchangeable
counsel he causes to appear through all the world.
#BCV:Zechariah 6:6
<h3><verse=Zechariah 6:6>Zechariah 6:6</verse></h3>



The black horses which [are] in it go forth into the north country; and the white go forth after them;
and the spotted go forth toward the (h) south country.

<page=2339>(h) That is, towards Egypt, and other countries there about.
#BCV:Zechariah 6:7
<h3><verse=Zechariah 6:7>Zechariah 6:7</verse></h3>



And the (i) bay went forth, and sought to go that they might walk to and fro through the earth: and
he said, Go from here, walk to and fro through the earth. So they walked to and fro through the
earth.



(i) That is, those of different colours, which ask permission, to signify that Satan has no power to
hurt or afflict, until God gives it to him; (<bcv=Job 1:12>Job 1:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 6:8
<h3><verse=Zechariah 6:8>Zechariah 6:8</verse></h3>



Then he cried upon me, and spoke to me, saying, Behold, these that go toward the north country
have quieted my (k) spirit in the north country.



(k) By punishing the Chaldeans my anger ceased, and you were delivered.
#BCV:Zechariah 6:10
<h3><verse=Zechariah 6:10>Zechariah 6:10</verse></h3>



Take of [them of] the captivity, [even] of Heldai, of Tobijah, and of Jedaiah, who are come from
Babylon, and come thou the same day, and go into the house of (l) Josiah the son of Zephaniah;



(l) To receive from him and the other three, money to make the two crowns: who were men of great
authority among the Jews, and doubted of the restitution of the kingdom, and of the priesthood,
and hurt others by their example.
#BCV:Zechariah 6:11
<h3><verse=Zechariah 6:11>Zechariah 6:11</verse></h3>



Then take silver and gold, and make crowns, and set [them] upon the (m) head of Joshua the son of
Josedech, the high priest;



(m) Because this could not be attributed to any one according to the Law, therefore it follows that
Joshua must represent the Messiah, who was both Priest and King.
#BCV:Zechariah 6:12
<h3><verse=Zechariah 6:12>Zechariah 6:12</verse></h3>



And speak to him, saying, Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name
[is] The (n) BRANCH; and he shall grow (o) up out of his place, and he shall (p) build the temple of
the LORD:



(n) Meaning Christ, of whom Joshua was the figure: for in Greek they were both called Jesus.



(o) That is, of himself without the help of man.

<page=2340>(p) Which declares that no one could build this temple of which Haggai speaks, but only Christ: and
therefore it was spiritual, and not material; (<bcv=Hag 2:9>Hag 2:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 6:13
<h3><verse=Zechariah 6:13>Zechariah 6:13</verse></h3>



Even he shall build the temple of the LORD; and he shall bear the (q) glory, and shall sit and rule
upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne: and the counsel of peace shall be between



(r) them both.



(q) Of which Joshua had but a shadow.



(r) The two offices of the kingdom and priesthood, will be joined together in such a way, that they
will no longer be separated.
#BCV:Zechariah 6:14
<h3><verse=Zechariah 6:14>Zechariah 6:14</verse></h3>



And the crowns shall be to (s) Helem, and to Tobijah, and to Jedaiah, and to (t) Hen the son of
Zephaniah, for a (u) memorial in the temple of the LORD.



(s) Who was also called Heldai.



(t) He was also called Joshias.



(u) That they may acknowledge their infirmity, who thought that all things would be restored
immediately: and of this their infidelity these two crowns will remain as tokens; (<bcv=Acts 1:6>Act 1:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 6:15
<h3><verse=Zechariah 6:15>Zechariah 6:15</verse></h3>



And they [that are] (x) far off shall come and build in the temple of the LORD, and ye shall know
that the LORD of hosts hath sent me to you. And [this] shall come to pass, if ye will diligently (y)
obey the voice of the LORD your God.



(x) That is, the Gentiles by the preaching of the Gospel, will help toward the building of the
spiritual temple.



(y) If you will believe and remain in the obedience of faith.

<h2>Zechariah 7</h2>

#BCV:Zechariah 7:1
<h3><verse=Zechariah 7:1>Zechariah 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=2341>And it came to pass in the fourth year of king Darius, [that] the word of the LORD came to
Zechariah in the fourth [day] of the ninth month, [even] in (a) Chisleu;



(a) Which contained part of November and part of December.
#BCV:Zechariah 7:2
<h3><verse=Zechariah 7:2>Zechariah 7:2</verse></h3>



When (b) they had sent to the house of God Sherezer and Regemmelech, and their men, to pray
before the LORD,



(b) That is, the rest of the people that yet remained in Chaldea, sent to the Church at Jerusalem for
the resolution of these questions, because these feasts were consented upon by the agreement of the
whole Church, the one in the month that the temple was destroyed, and the other when Gedaliah
was slain; (<bcv=Jer 41:2>Jer 41:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 7:3
<h3><verse=Zechariah 7:3>Zechariah 7:3</verse></h3>



[And] to speak to the priests who [were] in the house of the LORD of hosts, and to the prophets,
saying, Should I (c) weep in the fifth month, (d) separating myself, as I have done these so many (e)
years?



(c) By weeping and mourning are shown what exercises they used in their fasting.



(d) That is, prepare myself with all devotion to his fast.



(e) Which had been since the time the temple was destroyed.
#BCV:Zechariah 7:5
<h3><verse=Zechariah 7:5>Zechariah 7:5</verse></h3>



Speak to all the people of the land, and to the (f) priests, saying, When ye fasted and mourned in the
fifth and seventh [month], even those seventy years, did ye at all fast to me, (g) [even] to me?



(f) For there were both of the people, and of the priests, those who doubted with regard to this
controversy, besides those who as yet remained in Chaldea, and argue about it, as of one of the
chief points of their religion.



(g) For they thought they had gained favour with God because of this fast, which they invented by
themselves: and though fasting of itself is good, yet because they thought it a service toward God,
and trusted in it, it is here reproved.
#BCV:Zechariah 7:6
<h3><verse=Zechariah 7:6>Zechariah 7:6</verse></h3>

#BCV:zac 7:6
<h3><verse=zac 7:6>zac 7:6</verse></h3>




(h) Did you not eat and drink for your own benefit and necessity, and so likewise you abstained
according to your own imaginings, and not after the command and direction of my Law.
#BCV:Zechariah 7:7
<h3><verse=Zechariah 7:7>Zechariah 7:7</verse></h3>



[Should ye] not [hear] the words which the LORD (i) hath cried by the former prophets, when
Jerusalem was inhabited and in prosperity, and her cities around her, when [men] inhabited the south
and the plain?



(i) By this he condemns their hypocrisy, who thought by their fasting to please God, and by such
things as they invented, and in the meantime would not serve him as he had commanded.
#BCV:Zechariah 7:9
<h3><verse=Zechariah 7:9>Zechariah 7:9</verse></h3>



Thus speaketh the LORD of hosts, saying, (k) Execute true judgment, and show mercy and
compassions every man to his brother:



(k) He shows that they did not fast with a sincere heart, but because of hypocrisy, and that it was not
done from a pure religion, because they lacked these offices of charity which should have declared
that they were godly; (<bcv=Mat 23:23>Mat 23:23</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 7:11
<h3><verse=Zechariah 7:11>Zechariah 7:11</verse></h3>



But they refused to hearken, and (l) withdrew the shoulder, and stopped their ears, that they should
not hear.



(l) And would not carry the Lord's burden, which was sweet and easy, but would bear their own,
which was heavy and grievous to the flesh, thinking to gain merit by it: which metaphor is taken
from oxen, which shrink at the yoke; (<bcv=Neh 9:29>Neh 9:29</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 7:12
<h3><verse=Zechariah 7:12>Zechariah 7:12</verse></h3>



Yea, they made their hearts [as] an adamant stone, lest they should hear the law, and the words which
the LORD of hosts hath sent in his (m) spirit by the former prophets: therefore came a great wrath
from the LORD of hosts.



(m) Which declares that they did not only rebel against the Prophets, but against the Spirit of God
that spoke in them.
#BCV:Zechariah 7:14
<h3><verse=Zechariah 7:14>Zechariah 7:14</verse></h3>

<page=2343>But I scattered them with a whirlwind among all the nations whom they knew not. Thus the land
was desolate (n) after them, that no man passed through nor returned: for they laid the pleasant land



(o) desolate.



(n) That is, after they were taken captive.



(o) By their sins by which they provoked God's anger.

<h2>Zechariah 8</h2>

#BCV:Zechariah 8:2
<h3><verse=Zechariah 8:2>Zechariah 8:2</verse></h3>

<page=2344>Thus saith the LORD of hosts; I was (a) jealous for Zion with great jealousy, and I was jealous for
her with great fury.



(a) I loved my city with a singular love, so that I could not endure that any should do her any injury.
#BCV:Zechariah 8:3
<h3><verse=Zechariah 8:3>Zechariah 8:3</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD; I have returned to Zion, and will dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and
Jerusalem shall be called a (b) city of truth; and the mountain of the LORD of hosts the holy
mountain.



(b) Because she will be faithful and loyal toward me her husband.
#BCV:Zechariah 8:4
<h3><verse=Zechariah 8:4>Zechariah 8:4</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD of hosts; There shall yet old (c) men and old women dwell in the streets of
Jerusalem, and every man with his staff in his hand for very age.



(c) Though their enemies did greatly molest and trouble them, yet God would come and dwell
among them, and so preserve them as long as nature would allow them to live, and increase their
children in great abundance.
#BCV:Zechariah 8:6
<h3><verse=Zechariah 8:6>Zechariah 8:6</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD of hosts; If it is (d) marvellous in the eyes of the remnant of this people in
these days, should it also be marvellous in my eyes? saith the LORD of hosts.



(d) He shows in what our faith consists, that is, to believe that God can perform that which he has
promised, though it seem ever so impossible to man; (<bcv=Gen 13:14>Gen 13:14</bcv>;<bcv=Rom 4:20> Rom 4:20</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 8:8
<h3><verse=Zechariah 8:8>Zechariah 8:8</verse></h3>



And I will bring them, and they shall (e) dwell in the midst of Jerusalem: and they shall be my people,
and I will be their God, in truth and in righteousness.



(e) So that their return will not be in vain: for God will accomplish his promise, and their prosperity
will be sure and stable.
#BCV:Zechariah 8:9
<h3><verse=Zechariah 8:9>Zechariah 8:9</verse></h3>

<page=2345>Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Let your (f) hands be strong, ye that hear in these days these words
by the mouth of the prophets, who [were] in the day [when] the foundation of the house of the
LORD of hosts was laid, that the temple might be built.



(f) Let neither respect of your personal benefits, neither counsel of others, nor fear of enemies,
discourage you in the going forward with the building of the temple, but be steadfast and obey the
Prophets, who encourage you to that.
#BCV:Zechariah 8:10
<h3><verse=Zechariah 8:10>Zechariah 8:10</verse></h3>



For before these days there was no hire for (g) man, nor any hire for beast; neither [was there any]
peace to him that went out or came in because of the affliction: for I set all men every one against
his neighbour.



(g) For God cursed your work, so that neither man nor beast had profit from their labours.
#BCV:Zechariah 8:14
<h3><verse=Zechariah 8:14>Zechariah 8:14</verse></h3>



For thus saith the LORD of hosts; As I thought to punish (h) you, when your fathers provoked me
to wrath, saith the LORD of hosts, and I repented not:



(h) Read (<bcv=Ezek 18:20>Eze 18:20</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 8:15
<h3><verse=Zechariah 8:15>Zechariah 8:15</verse></h3>



So again have I thought in these days (i) to do good to Jerusalem and to the house of Judah: fear ye
not.



(i) Which declares that man cannot turn to God until he changes man's heart by his Spirit, and so
begin to do good to them, which is to pardon his sins and to give him his graces.
#BCV:Zechariah 8:19
<h3><verse=Zechariah 8:19>Zechariah 8:19</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD of hosts; The fast of the fourth [month], and the fast of the fifth, and the
fast of the seventh, and the fast of the (k) tenth, shall be to the house of Judah joy and gladness,
and cheerful feasts; therefore love the truth and peace.



(k) Which fast was appointed when the city was besieged, and was the first fast of these four. And
here the prophet shows that if the Jews will repent, and turn wholly to God, they will have no more
occasion to fast, or to show signs of heaviness, for God will send them joy and gladness.
#BCV:Zechariah 8:20
<h3><verse=Zechariah 8:20>Zechariah 8:20</verse></h3>

<page=2346>Thus saith the LORD of hosts; [It shall] yet [come to pass], that there shall come (l) people, and the
inhabitants of many cities:



(l) He declares the great zeal that God would give the Gentiles to come to his Church, and to unite
with the Jews in his true religion, which would be in the kingdom of Christ.

<h2>Zechariah 9</h2>

#BCV:Zechariah 9:1
<h3><verse=Zechariah 9:1>Zechariah 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=2347>The burden of the word of the LORD in the land of (a) Hadrach, and Damascus [shall be] the (b)
rest of it: when the (c) eyes of man, as of all the tribes of Israel, [shall be] toward the LORD.



(a) By which he means Syria.



(b) God's anger will remain upon their chief city, and not spare even as much as that.



(c) When the Jews will convert and repent, then God will destroy their enemies.
#BCV:Zechariah 9:2
<h3><verse=Zechariah 9:2>Zechariah 9:2</verse></h3>



And Hamath also shall border (d) by it; Tyre, and Zidon, though it be (e) very wise.



(d) That is, by Damascus: meaning, that Harnath or Antiochia would be under the same rod and
plague.



(e) He secretly shows the cause of their destruction, because they deceived all others by their craft
and subtilty, which they cloaked with this name of wisdom.
#BCV:Zechariah 9:4
<h3><verse=Zechariah 9:4>Zechariah 9:4</verse></h3>



Behold, the LORD will cast her out, and he will smite her (f) power in the sea; and she shall be
devoured with fire.



(f) Though those of Tyre think themselves invincible by reason of the sea that surrounds them, yet
they will not escape God's judgments.
#BCV:Zechariah 9:6
<h3><verse=Zechariah 9:6>Zechariah 9:6</verse></h3>



And a (g) bastard shall dwell in Ashdod, and I will cut off the pride of the Philistines.



(g) Meaning, that all would be destroyed, save a very few, that would remain as strangers.
#BCV:Zechariah 9:7
<h3><verse=Zechariah 9:7>Zechariah 9:7</verse></h3>



And I will take away his blood out of his mouth, and his abominations from between his (h) teeth:
but he that remaineth, even he, [shall be] for our God, and he shall be as a governor in Judah, and (i)
Ekron as a Jebusite.



(h) He promises to deliver the Jews when he will take vengeance on their enemies for their cruelty,
and the wrongs they did to them.

<page=2348>(i) As the Jebusites had been destroyed, so would Ekron and all the Philistines.
#BCV:Zechariah 9:8
<h3><verse=Zechariah 9:8>Zechariah 9:8</verse></h3>



And I will encamp about (k) my house because of the army, because of him that passeth by, and
because of him that returneth: and no oppressor shall pass through them any more: for now (l) have
I seen with my eyes.



(k) He shows that God's power alone will be sufficient to defend his Church against all adversaries,
be they ever so cruel, or assert their power ever so often.



(l) That is, God has now seen the great injuries and afflictions with which they have been afflicted by
their enemies.
#BCV:Zechariah 9:9
<h3><verse=Zechariah 9:9>Zechariah 9:9</verse></h3>



Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh to
thee: (m) he [is] just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon a (n) donkey, and upon a colt the
foal of a donkey.



(m) That is, he has righteousness and salvation in himself for the use and benefit of his Church.



(n) Which declares that they should not look for such a king as would be glorious in the eyes of man,
but should be poor, and yet in himself have all power to deliver his own: and this is meant of Christ,
as in (<bcv=Mat 21:5>Mat 21:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 9:10
<h3><verse=Zechariah 9:10>Zechariah 9:10</verse></h3>



And I will cut off the (o) chariot from Ephraim, and the horse from Jerusalem, and the battle bow
shall be cut off: and he shall speak peace to the nations: and his dominion [shall be] from (p) sea to
sea, and from the (q) river to the ends of the earth.



(o) No power of man or creature will be able to stop this kingdom of Christ, and he will peaceably
govern them by his word.



(p) That is, from the Red Sea, to the Sea called Syriacum: and by these places which the Jews knew,
he meant an infinite space and area over the whole world.



(q) That is, from the Euphrates.
#BCV:Zechariah 9:11
<h3><verse=Zechariah 9:11>Zechariah 9:11</verse></h3>




(r) As for thee also, by the blood of thy covenant I have sent forth thy (s) prisoners out of the pit in
which [is] no water.

<page=2349>(r) Meaning Jerusalem, or the Church which is saved by the blood of Christ, of which the blood of
the sacrifices was a figure. And it is here called the covenant of the Church, because God made it
with his Church: and left it with them because of the love that he had for them.



(s) God shows that he will deliver his Church out of all dangers, no matter how great they may seem.
#BCV:Zechariah 9:12
<h3><verse=Zechariah 9:12>Zechariah 9:12</verse></h3>



Turn ye to the (t) strong hold, ye (u) prisoners of hope: even to day do I declare [that] I will render



(x) double to thee;



(t) That is, into the holy land where the city and the temple are, where God will defend you.



(u) Meaning the faithful, who seemed to be in danger of their enemies on every side, and yet lived in
hope that God would restore them to liberty.



(x) That is, double benefits and prosperity, in respect of that which your fathers enjoyed from
David's time to the captivity.
#BCV:Zechariah 9:13
<h3><verse=Zechariah 9:13>Zechariah 9:13</verse></h3>



When I have bent Judah for me, filled the (y) bow with Ephraim, and raised up thy sons, O Zion,
against thy sons, O Greece, and made thee as the sword of a mighty man.



(y) I will make Judah and Ephraim, that is, my whole Church, victorious against all enemies, which
he here means by the Greeks.
#BCV:Zechariah 9:15
<h3><verse=Zechariah 9:15>Zechariah 9:15</verse></h3>



The LORD of hosts shall defend them; and they shall devour, (z) and subdue the sling stones; and
they shall drink, [and] make a noise as through wine; and they shall be filled like bowls, [and] as the
corners of the altar.



(z) He promises that the Jews will destroy their enemies, and have abundance and excess of all things,
as there is abundance on the altar when the sacrifice is offered. And these things are not to move
them to excess, but to sobriety, and a thankful remembrance of God's great liberality.
#BCV:Zechariah 9:16
<h3><verse=Zechariah 9:16>Zechariah 9:16</verse></h3>



And the LORD their God shall save them in that day as the flock of his people: for they [shall be as]
the (a) stones of a crown, lifted up as an ensign upon his land.



(a) The faithful will be preserved, and reverenced by all, that their very enemies will be compelled to
esteem them: for God's glory will shine in them, as Josephus declares of Alexander the great when
he met Jadi the high priest.

<h2>Zechariah 10</h2>

#BCV:Zechariah 10:1
<h3><verse=Zechariah 10:1>Zechariah 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=2350>Ask ye of the (a) LORD rain in the time of the latter rain; [so] the LORD shall make bright clouds,
and give them showers of rain, to every one grass in the field.



(a) The Prophet reproves the Jews, because by their own infidelity they turn away God's promised
graces, and so famine came by God's just judgment. Therefore to avoid this plague, he exhorts them
to turn to God, and to pray in faith to him, and so he will give them abundance.
#BCV:Zechariah 10:2
<h3><verse=Zechariah 10:2>Zechariah 10:2</verse></h3>



For the (b) idols have spoken vanity, and the diviners have seen a lie, and have told false dreams; they
comfort in vain: therefore (c) they went their way as a flock, they were troubled, because [there was]
no shepherd.



(b) He calls to remembrance God's punishments in times past, because they trusted not in him, but
in their idols and sorcerers who always deceived them.



(c) That is, the Jews went into captivity.
#BCV:Zechariah 10:3
<h3><verse=Zechariah 10:3>Zechariah 10:3</verse></h3>



My anger was kindled against the shepherds, and I punished the (d) goats: for the LORD of hosts
hath visited his flock the house of Judah, and hath made them as (e) his majestic horse in the battle.



(d) Meaning, the cruel governors who did oppress the poor sheep; (<bcv=Ezek 34:16-17>Eze 34:16-17</bcv>).



(e) He will be merciful to his Church, and cherish them as a king or prince does his best horse,
which will be for his own use in war.
#BCV:Zechariah 10:4
<h3><verse=Zechariah 10:4>Zechariah 10:4</verse></h3>



Out (f) of him came forth the corner, out of him the nail, out of him the battle bow, out of him
every (g) oppressor together.



(f) Out of Judah will the chief governor proceed, who will be as a corner to uphold the building,
and as a nail to fasten it together.



(g) Over their enemies.
#BCV:Zechariah 10:6
<h3><verse=Zechariah 10:6>Zechariah 10:6</verse></h3>

<page=2351>And I will strengthen the house of Judah, and I will save the (h) house of Joseph, and I will bring
them again to place them; for I have mercy upon them: and they shall be as though I had not cast
them off: for I [am] the LORD their God, and will hear them.



(h) That is, the ten tribes, which would be united under Christ to the rest of the Church.
#BCV:Zechariah 10:8
<h3><verse=Zechariah 10:8>Zechariah 10:8</verse></h3>



I will (i) hiss for them, and gather them; for I have redeemed them: and they shall increase as they
have increased.



(i) By which he declares the power of God, who needs no great preparation when he will deliver his
own: for with a gesture or hiss he can call them suddenly from all places.
#BCV:Zechariah 10:9
<h3><verse=Zechariah 10:9>Zechariah 10:9</verse></h3>



And I will (k) sow them among the people: and they shall remember me in far countries; and they
shall live with their children, and (l) turn again.



(k) Though they will yet be scattered and seem to be lost, yet it will be profitable to them: for there
they will come to the knowledge of my name, which was accomplished under the Gospel, among
whom it was first preached.



(l) Not that they would return into their country, but be gathered and joined in one faith by the
doctrine of the Gospel.
#BCV:Zechariah 10:11
<h3><verse=Zechariah 10:11>Zechariah 10:11</verse></h3>



And he (m) shall pass through the sea with affliction, and shall smite the waves in the sea, and all the
deeps of the river shall dry up: and the pride of Assyria shall be brought down, and the sceptre of
Egypt shall depart.



(m) He alludes to the deliverance of the people out of Egypt, when the angel smote the floods and
rivers.

<h2>Zechariah 11</h2>

#BCV:Zechariah 11:1
<h3><verse=Zechariah 11:1>Zechariah 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=2352>Open thy doors, O (a) Lebanon, that the fire may devour thy cedars.



(a) Because the Jews thought themselves so strong by reason of this mountain, that no enemy could
come to hurt them, the Prophet shows that when God sends the enemies, it will show itself ready to
receive them.
#BCV:Zechariah 11:2
<h3><verse=Zechariah 11:2>Zechariah 11:2</verse></h3>



Wail, (b) fir tree; for the cedar is fallen; because the mighty are laid waste: wail, O ye oaks of Bashan;
for the forest of the (c) vintage is come down.



(b) Showing that if the strong men were destroyed, the weaker were not able to resist.



(c) Seeing that Lebanon was destroyed, which was the strongest fortress, the weaker places could not
hope to hold out.
#BCV:Zechariah 11:3
<h3><verse=Zechariah 11:3>Zechariah 11:3</verse></h3>



[There is] a voice of the wailing of the shepherds; for their (d) glory is destroyed: a voice of the
roaring of young lions; for the pride of Jordan is laid waste.



(d) That is, the fame of Judah and Israel would perish.
#BCV:Zechariah 11:4
<h3><verse=Zechariah 11:4>Zechariah 11:4</verse></h3>



Thus saith the LORD my God; Feed the flock of the (e) slaughter;



(e) Which being now destined to be slain, were delivered as out of the lion's mouth.
#BCV:Zechariah 11:5
<h3><verse=Zechariah 11:5>Zechariah 11:5</verse></h3>



Whose possessors slay them, and hold themselves (f) not guilty: and they that sell them say, (g)
Blessed [be] the LORD; for I am rich: and their own shepherds pity them not.



(f) Their governors destroy them without any remorse of conscience, or yet thinking that they do
evil.



(g) He notes the hypocrites, who always have the name of God in their mouths, though in their life
and doings they deny God, attributing their gain to God's blessings, which comes from the wealth
of their brethren.
#BCV:Zechariah 11:6
<h3><verse=Zechariah 11:6>Zechariah 11:6</verse></h3>

<page=2353>For I will no more pity the inhabitants of the land, saith the LORD: but, lo, (h) I will deliver the
men every one into his neighbour's hand, and into the hand of his (i) king: and they shall smite the
land, and out of their hand I will not deliver [them].



(h) I will cause one to destroy another.



(i) Their governors will execute cruelty over them.
#BCV:Zechariah 11:7
<h3><verse=Zechariah 11:7>Zechariah 11:7</verse></h3>



And I will feed the flock of slaughter, [even] you, (k) O poor of the flock. And I took to me (l) two
staffs; the one I called Beauty, and the other I called Bands; and I fed the flock.



(k) That is, the small remnant, whom he though worthy to show mercy to.



(l) God shows his great benefits toward his people to convince them of greater ingratitude, who
would neither be ruled by his most beautiful order of government, neither continue in the bands of
brotherly unity, and therefore he breaks both the one and the other. Some read "Destroyers" instead
of "Bands", but in (<bcv=Zec 11:14>Zac 11:14</bcv>) the second reading is confirmed.
#BCV:Zechariah 11:8
<h3><verse=Zechariah 11:8>Zechariah 11:8</verse></h3>




(m) Three shepherds also I cut off in one month; and my soul lothed (n) them, and their soul also
abhorred me.



(m) By which he shows his care and diligence that he would not allow them to have evil rulers, so
that they would consider his great love.



(n) Meaning, the people, because they would not acknowledge these great benefits of God.
#BCV:Zechariah 11:11
<h3><verse=Zechariah 11:11>Zechariah 11:11</verse></h3>



And it was broken in that day: and so the (o) poor of the flock that waited upon me knew that it
[was] the word of the LORD.



(o) He shows that the least always profit by God's judgments.
#BCV:Zechariah 11:12
<h3><verse=Zechariah 11:12>Zechariah 11:12</verse></h3>



And I said to them, If ye think good, give [me] (p) my price; and if not, forbear. So they weighed for
my price thirty [pieces] of silver.

<page=2354>(p) Besides their ingratitude, God accuses them of malice and wickedness, who did not only forget
his benefits, but esteemed them as nothing.
#BCV:Zechariah 11:13
<h3><verse=Zechariah 11:13>Zechariah 11:13</verse></h3>



And the LORD said to me, Cast it to the (q) potter: a glorious price that I was valued at by them.
And I took the thirty [pieces] of silver, and cast them to the potter in the house of the LORD.



(q) Showing that it was too little to pay his wages with, which could hardly suffice to make a few tiles
to cover the temple.
#BCV:Zechariah 11:15
<h3><verse=Zechariah 11:15>Zechariah 11:15</verse></h3>



And the LORD said to me, Take to thee yet (r) the instruments of a foolish shepherd.



(r) Signifying that they should have a certain type of regiment and outward show of government:
but in effect it would be nothing, for they would be wolves, and devouring beasts instead of
shepherds.
#BCV:Zechariah 11:16
<h3><verse=Zechariah 11:16>Zechariah 11:16</verse></h3>



For, lo, I will raise up a shepherd in the land, [who] shall not visit those that are cut off, neither shall
seek the young one, nor heal that which is broken, nor feed that which (s) standeth still: but he shall
eat the flesh of the fat, and tear their claws in pieces.



(s) And is in health and sound.
#BCV:Zechariah 11:17
<h3><verse=Zechariah 11:17>Zechariah 11:17</verse></h3>



Woe to the idle shepherd that leaveth the flock! the sword [shall be] upon his (t) arm, and upon his
right eye: his arm shall be wholly dried up, and his right eye shall be utterly darkened.



(t) By the arm he signifies strength, as he does wisdom and judgments by the eye: that is, the plague
of God will take away both your strength and judgment.

<h2>Zechariah 12</h2>

#BCV:Zechariah 12:1
<h3><verse=Zechariah 12:1>Zechariah 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=2355>The burden of the word of the LORD for (a) Israel, saith the LORD, who stretcheth forth the
heavens, and layeth the foundation of the earth, and formeth the spirit of man within him.



(a) That is, the ten tribes, which neglected God's benefit in delivering their brethren, and had rather
remain in captivity, than to return home when God called them.
#BCV:Zechariah 12:2
<h3><verse=Zechariah 12:2>Zechariah 12:2</verse></h3>



Behold, I will make Jerusalem a (b) cup of trembling to all the people around, when they shall be in
the siege both against Judah [and] against Jerusalem.



(b) Jerusalem will be defended against all her enemies: so will God defend all Judah also, and will
destroy the enemies.
#BCV:Zechariah 12:5
<h3><verse=Zechariah 12:5>Zechariah 12:5</verse></h3>



And the governors of Judah shall say in their heart, The (c) inhabitants of Jerusalem [shall be] my
strength in the LORD of hosts their God.



(c) Every captain, that had many under him before, will now think that the small power of Jerusalem
will be sufficient to defend them against all enemies, because the Lord is among them.
#BCV:Zechariah 12:7
<h3><verse=Zechariah 12:7>Zechariah 12:7</verse></h3>



The LORD also shall save the (d) tents of Judah first, that the glory of the house of David and the
glory of the inhabitants of Jerusalem may not magnify [themselves] against Judah.



(d) The people who are now as it were dispersed by the fields, and lie open to their enemies, will be
preserved by my power just as if they were under their kings (which is meant by the house of
David), or in their defended cities.
#BCV:Zechariah 12:10
<h3><verse=Zechariah 12:10>Zechariah 12:10</verse></h3>



And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of (e)
grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon me whom they have (f) pierced, and they shall
mourn for (g) him, as one mourneth for [his] only [son], and shall be in bitterness for him, as one
that is in bitterness for [his] firstborn.



(e) They will have the feeling of my grace by faith, and know that I have compassion on them.

<page=2356>(f) That is, whom they have continually vexed with their obstinacy, and grieved my Spirit. In (<bcv=John 19:37>Joh 19:37</bcv>) 
it is referred to Christ's body, whereas here it is referred to the Spirit of God.



(g) They will turn to God by true repentance, whom before they had so grievously offended by their
ingratitude.
#BCV:Zechariah 12:11
<h3><verse=Zechariah 12:11>Zechariah 12:11</verse></h3>



In that day shall there be a great mourning in Jerusalem, as the (h) mourning of (i) Hadadrimmon in
the valley of Megiddon.



(h) They will exceedingly lament and repent for their offences against God.



(i) Which was the name of a town and place near to Megiddo, where Josiah was slain; (<bcv=2Ch 35:22>Ch2 35:22</bcv>).

#BCV:Zechariah 12:12
<h3><verse=Zechariah 12:12>Zechariah 12:12</verse></h3>



And the (k) land shall mourn, every family (l) apart; the family of the (m) house of David apart, and
their wives apart; the family of the house of Nathan apart, and their wives apart;



(k) That is, in all places where the Jews will remain.



(l) Signifying, that this mourning or repentance would not be a vain ceremony: but every one
touched with his own griefs will lament.



(m) Under these certain families he includes all the tribes, and shows that both the kings and the
priests had by their sins pierced Christ.
#BCV:Zechariah 12:13
<h3><verse=Zechariah 12:13>Zechariah 12:13</verse></h3>



The family of the house of Levi apart, and their wives apart; the family of (n) Shimei apart, and
their wives apart;



(n) Also called Simeon.
#BCV:Zechariah 12:14
<h3><verse=Zechariah 12:14>Zechariah 12:14</verse></h3>



All the families that (o) remain, every family apart, and their wives apart.



(o) That is, who were elect by grace, and preserved from the common destruction.

<h2>Zechariah 13</h2>

#BCV:Zechariah 13:1
<h3><verse=Zechariah 13:1>Zechariah 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=2357>In that day there (a) shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of
Jerusalem for sin and for uncleanness.



(a) He shows what will be the fruit of their repentance, that is, remission of sins by the blood of
Christ, which will be a continual running fountain, and purge them from all uncleanness.
#BCV:Zechariah 13:2
<h3><verse=Zechariah 13:2>Zechariah 13:2</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the LORD of hosts, [that] I will cut off the (b) names of
the idols out of the land, and they shall no more be remembered: and also I will cause the (c)
prophets and the unclean spirit to pass out of the land.



(b) He promises that God will also purge them from all superstition, and that their religion will be
pure.



(c) Meaning, the false prophets and teachers, who are the corrupters of all religion, whom the
Prophet here calls unclean spirits.
#BCV:Zechariah 13:3
<h3><verse=Zechariah 13:3>Zechariah 13:3</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, [that] when any shall yet (d) prophesy, then his father and his mother that
begat him shall say to him, Thou shalt not live; for thou speakest lies in the name of the LORD: and
his father and his mother that begat him (e) shall thrust him through when he prophesieth.



(d) That is, when they will prophesy lies, and make God, who is the author of truth, a cloak for
them.



(e) He shows what zeal the godly will have under the kingdom of Christ; (<bcv=Deu 13:6>Deu 13:6</bcv>,<bcv=Deu 13:9> Deu 13:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 13:4
<h3><verse=Zechariah 13:4>Zechariah 13:4</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] the prophets shall (f) be ashamed every one of his vision,
when he hath prophesied; neither shall they wear a rough garment to deceive:



(f) God will make them ashamed of their errors and lies, and bring them to repentance, and they will
no more wear prophet's apparel to make their doctrine seem more holy.
#BCV:Zechariah 13:5
<h3><verse=Zechariah 13:5>Zechariah 13:5</verse></h3>

<page=2358>But he shall say, I [am] no (g) prophet, I [am] a farmer; for man taught me to keep cattle from my
youth.



(g) They will confess their former ignorance, and be content to labour for their living.
#BCV:Zechariah 13:6
<h3><verse=Zechariah 13:6>Zechariah 13:6</verse></h3>



And [one] shall say to him, What [are] these (h) wounds in thy hands? Then he shall answer, [Those]
with which I was wounded [in] the house of my friends.



(h) By this he shows that though their parents and friends dealt more gently with them, and did not
put them to death, yet they would so punish their children that became false prophets, that the
marks and signs would remain forever.
#BCV:Zechariah 13:7
<h3><verse=Zechariah 13:7>Zechariah 13:7</verse></h3>



Awake, O sword, against my (i) shepherd, and against the man [that is] my fellow, saith the LORD
of hosts: smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn my hand upon the
little ones.



(i) The Prophet warns the Jews, that before this great comfort under Christ would come, there
would be a horrible dissipation among the people: for their governors and pastors would be
destroyed, and the people would be as scattered sheep. And the evangelist applies this to Christ,
because he was the head of all pastors; (<bcv=Mat 26:31>Mat 26:31</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 13:8
<h3><verse=Zechariah 13:8>Zechariah 13:8</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass, [that] in all the land, saith the LORD, (k) two parts in it shall be cut off
[and] die; but the third shall be left in it.



(k) The greatest part will have no portion of these blessings, and yet they that will enjoy them will be
tried with great afflictions, so that is will be known that only God's power and his mercies preserve
them.

<h2>Zechariah 14</h2>

#BCV:Zechariah 14:1
<h3><verse=Zechariah 14:1>Zechariah 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=2359>Behold, the day of the LORD cometh, and thy spoil shall be (a) divided in the midst of thee.



(a) He arms the godly against the great temptations that would come, before they enjoyed this
prosperous estate promised under Christ, that when these dangers came, they might know that they
were warned of them before.
#BCV:Zechariah 14:3
<h3><verse=Zechariah 14:3>Zechariah 14:3</verse></h3>



Then shall the LORD go forth, and fight against those nations, as when he (b) fought in the day of
battle.



(b) As your fathers and you have had experience both at the Red Sea, and at all other times.
#BCV:Zechariah 14:4
<h3><verse=Zechariah 14:4>Zechariah 14:4</verse></h3>



And his feet shall stand in that day upon the (c) mount of Olives, which [is] before Jerusalem on the
east, and the mount of Olives shall cleave in the midst of it toward the east and toward the west,
[and there shall be] a very great (d) valley; and half of the mountain shall remove toward the north,
and half of it toward the south.



(c) By this manner of speech the Prophet shows God's power and care over his Church, and how he
will as it were by a miracle save it.



(d) So that out of all the parts of the world, they will see Jerusalem, which was before his with this
mountain: and this he means of the spiritual Jerusalem the Church.
#BCV:Zechariah 14:5
<h3><verse=Zechariah 14:5>Zechariah 14:5</verse></h3>



And ye shall flee [to] the (e) valley of the mountains; for the valley of the mountains shall reach to
Azal: yea, ye shall flee, as ye fled from before the (f) earthquake in the days of Uzziah king of Judah:
and the LORD (g) my God shall come, [and] all the saints with thee.



(e) He speaks of the hypocrites, who could not abide God's presence, but would flee into all places,
where they might hide themselves among the mountains.



(f) Read (<bcv=Amos 1:1>Amo 1:1</bcv>).



(g) Because they did not credit the Prophet's words, he turns to God and comforts himself in that
that he knew that these things would come, and says, "You, O God, with your angels will come to
perform this great thing."
#BCV:Zechariah 14:7
<h3><verse=Zechariah 14:7>Zechariah 14:7</verse></h3>

#BCV:zac 14:7
<h3><verse=zac 14:7>zac 14:7</verse></h3>



to pass, [that] at evening it shall be light.



(h) Signifying, that there would be great troubles in the Church, and that the time of it is in the
Lord's hands, yet at length (which is here meant by the evening) God would send comfort.
#BCV:Zechariah 14:8
<h3><verse=Zechariah 14:8>Zechariah 14:8</verse></h3>



And it shall be in that day, [that] living (i) waters shall go out from Jerusalem; half of them toward
the former sea, and half of them toward the hinder sea: in summer and in winter shall it be.



(i) That is, the spiritual graces of God, which would always continue in most abundance.
#BCV:Zechariah 14:9
<h3><verse=Zechariah 14:9>Zechariah 14:9</verse></h3>



And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one (k) LORD, and his
name one.



(k) All idolatry and superstition will be abolished, and there will be one God, one faith, and one
religion.
#BCV:Zechariah 14:10
<h3><verse=Zechariah 14:10>Zechariah 14:10</verse></h3>



All the land shall be turned (l) as a plain from Geba to Rimmon south of Jerusalem: and it shall be
lifted up, and inhabited in her place, from Benjamin's gate to the place of the first gate, to the corner
gate, and [from] the tower of Hananeel to the king's winepresses.



(l) This new Jerusalem will be seen through all the world, and will excel the first in excellency, wealth,
and greatness.
#BCV:Zechariah 14:13
<h3><verse=Zechariah 14:13>Zechariah 14:13</verse></h3>



And it shall come to pass in that day, [that] (m) a great tumult from the LORD shall be among them;
and they shall lay hold every one on (n) the hand of his neighbour, and his hand shall rise up against
the hand of his neighbour.



(m) God will not only raise up war outside, but sedition at home to test them.



(n) To hurt and oppress him.
#BCV:Zechariah 14:14
<h3><verse=Zechariah 14:14>Zechariah 14:14</verse></h3>

<page=2361>And Judah also shall fight at Jerusalem; and the wealth of all the nations around shall be gathered
together, (o) gold, and silver, and apparel, in great abundance.



(o) The enemies are rich, and therefore will not come to entreat, but to destroy and shed blood.
#BCV:Zechariah 14:15
<h3><verse=Zechariah 14:15>Zechariah 14:15</verse></h3>



And so shall be the plague of the horse, of the mule, of the camel, and of the donkey, and of all the
beasts that shall be in these tents, as this (p) plague.



(p) As the men would be destroyed, (<bcv=Zec 14:12>Zac 14:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Zechariah 14:18
<h3><verse=Zechariah 14:18>Zechariah 14:18</verse></h3>



And if the family of (q) Egypt shall not go up, and shall not come, that [have] no [rain]; there shall
be the plague, with which the LORD will smite the nations that come not up to keep the feast of
tabernacles.



(q) By the Egyptians, who were the greatest enemies to true religion, he means all the Gentiles.
#BCV:Zechariah 14:20
<h3><verse=Zechariah 14:20>Zechariah 14:20</verse></h3>



In that day there shall be upon the (r) bells of the horses, HOLINESS TO THE LORD; and the (s)
pots in the LORD'S house shall be like the bowls before the altar.



(r) Signifying to whatever service they were put now (whether to labour, or to serve in war), they
were now holy, because the Lord had sanctified them.



(s) The one as precious as the other, because they will be sanctified.
#BCV:Zechariah 14:21
<h3><verse=Zechariah 14:21>Zechariah 14:21</verse></h3>



Yea, every pot in Jerusalem and in Judah shall be holiness to the LORD of hosts: and all they that
sacrifice shall come and take of them, and boil in them: and in that day there shall be no more the (t)
Canaanite in the house of the LORD of hosts.



(t) But all will be pure and clean, and there will neither by hypocrites, nor any that will corrupt the
true service of God.

<h1>Malachi</h1>


<h2>Malachi 1</h2>

#BCV:Malachi 1:1
<h3><verse=Malachi 1:1>Malachi 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2363>The (a) burden of the word of the LORD to Israel by Malachi.



The Argument - This Prophet was one of the three who God raised up for the comfort of the
Church after the captivity, and after him there was no one else until John the Baptist was sent, which
was either a token of God's wrath, or an admonition that they should with more fervent desires look
for the coming of the Messiah. He confirms the same doctrine, that the two former do: chiefly he
reproves the priests for their covetousness, and because they served God after their own fantasies,
and not according to the direction of his word. He also notes certain distinct sins, which were then
among them, such as the marrying of idolatrous and many wives, murmurings against God,
impatience, and things such as these. Nonetheless, for the comfort of the godly he declares that
God would not forget his promise made to their fathers, but would send Christ his messenger, in
whom the covenant would be accomplished, whose coming would be terrible to the wicked, and
bring all consolation and joy to the godly.



(a) See<bcv=Isa 13:1> Isa 13:1</bcv>
#BCV:Malachi 1:2
<h3><verse=Malachi 1:2>Malachi 1:2</verse></h3>



I have loved you, saith the LORD. Yet ye say, (b) Wherein hast thou loved us? [Was] not Esau
Jacob's brother? saith the LORD: yet I loved Jacob,



(b) Which declares their great ingratitude that did not acknowledge this love, which was so evident,
in that he chose Abraham from out of all the world, and next chose Jacob the younger brother from
whom they came, and left Esau the elder.
#BCV:Malachi 1:3
<h3><verse=Malachi 1:3>Malachi 1:3</verse></h3>



And I (c) hated Esau, (1) and laid his mountains and his heritage waste for the dragons of the
wilderness.



(c) For besides this the signs of my hatred appeared even when he was made servant to his younger
brother, being yet in his mother's belly, and also afterward in that he was put from his birthright. Yet
even now before your eyes the signs of this are evident, in that his country lies waste, and he will
never return to inhabit it.



(d) Whereas you my people, whom the enemy hated more than them, are by my grace and love
towards you delivered; read (<bcv=Rom 9:13>Rom 9:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Malachi 1:6
<h3><verse=Malachi 1:6>Malachi 1:6</verse></h3>

<page=2364>A son honoureth [his] father, and a servant his master: if then I [be] a father, where [is] mine honour?
and if I [be] a master, where [is] my fear? saith the LORD of hosts unto you, (d) O priests, that
despise my name. And ye say, (e) Wherein have we despised thy name?



(d) Besides the rest of the people he mainly condemns the priests, because they should have
reproved others for their hypocrisy, and for not yielding to God, and should not have hardened
them by their example to do greater evils.



(e) He notes their great hypocrisy, who would not see their faults, but most impudently covered
them, and so were blind guides.
#BCV:Malachi 1:7
<h3><verse=Malachi 1:7>Malachi 1:7</verse></h3>



Ye offer (f) polluted bread upon mine altar; and ye say, Wherein have we polluted thee? In that ye say,
The table of
the LORD [is] (g) contemptible.



(f) You receive all types of offerings for your own greediness, and do not examine whether they are
according to my Law or not.



(g) Not that they said this, but by their doings they declared it.
#BCV:Malachi 1:8
<h3><verse=Malachi 1:8>Malachi 1:8</verse></h3>



And if ye offer the blind for sacrifice, [is it] (h) not evil? and if ye offer the lame and sick, [is it] not
evil? offer it now unto thy governor; will he be pleased with thee, or accept thy person? saith the
LORD of hosts.



(h) You make it no fault: and by this he condemns them that think it sufficient to serve God partly
as he has commanded, and partly after man's fantasy, and so do not come to the pureness of
religion, which he requires. And therefore in reproach he shows them that a mortal man would not
be content to be served in such a way.
#BCV:Malachi 1:9
<h3><verse=Malachi 1:9>Malachi 1:9</verse></h3>



And now, I pray you, (i) beseech God that he will be gracious unto us: this hath been by your means:
will he regard (k) your persons? saith the LORD of hosts.



(i) He derides the priests who deceived the people in saying that they prayed for them, and shows
that they were the occasion that these evils came upon the people.



(k) Will God consider your office and state, seeing you are so covetous and wicked?
#BCV:Malachi 1:10
<h3><verse=Malachi 1:10>Malachi 1:10</verse></h3>

<page=2365>Who [is there] even among you (l) that would shut the doors [for nought]? neither do ye kindle [fire]
on mine altar for nought. I have no pleasure in you, saith the LORD of hosts, neither will I accept
an offering at your hand.



(l) Because the Levites who kept the doors did not test whether the sacrifices that came in were
according to the Law, God wishes that they would rather shut the doors, than to receive such as were
not perfect.
#BCV:Malachi 1:11
<h3><verse=Malachi 1:11>Malachi 1:11</verse></h3>



For from the rising of the sun even unto the going down of the same my name [shall be] (m) great
among the Gentiles; and in every place incense [shall be] offered unto my name, and a pure offering:
for my name [shall be] great among the heathen, saith the LORD of hosts.



(m) God shows that their ingratitude and neglect of his true service will be the cause of the calling
of the Gentiles: and here the Prophet that was under the Law, used words that the people would
understand, and by the altar and sacrifice he means the spiritual service of God, which should be
under the Gospel, when an end would be made to all these legal ceremonies by Christ's sacrifice
alone.
#BCV:Malachi 1:12
<h3><verse=Malachi 1:12>Malachi 1:12</verse></h3>



But ye have profaned it, in that ye say, (n) The table of the LORD [is] polluted; and the fruit thereof,
[even] his meat, [is] contemptible.



(n) Both the priests and the people were infected with this error, that they did not regard what was
offered: for they thought that God was as well content with the lean, as with the fat. But in the
meantime they did not show the obedience to God which he required, and so committed impiety,
and also showed their contempt of God, and covetousness.
#BCV:Malachi 1:13
<h3><verse=Malachi 1:13>Malachi 1:13</verse></h3>



Ye said also, Behold, what a (o) weariness [is it]! and ye have snuffed at it, saith the LORD of hosts;
and ye brought [that which was] torn, and the lame, and the sick; thus ye brought an offering: should
I accept this of your hand? saith the LORD.



(o) The priests and people were both weary with serving God, and did not regard what manner of
sacrifice and service they gave to God: for that which was least profitable, was thought good enough
for the Lord.
#BCV:Malachi 1:14
<h3><verse=Malachi 1:14>Malachi 1:14</verse></h3>

#BCV:mal 1:14
<h3><verse=mal 1:14>mal 1:14</verse></h3>



Lord a corrupt thing: for I [am] a great King, saith the LORD of hosts, and my name [is] dreadful
among the heathen.



(p) That is, has ability to serve the Lord according to his word, and yet will serve him according to
his covetous mind.

<h2>Malachi 2</h2>

#BCV:Malachi 2:1
<h3><verse=Malachi 2:1>Malachi 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2367>And now, O ye (a) priests, this commandment [is] for you.



(a) He speaks mainly to them, but under them he includes the people also.
#BCV:Malachi 2:2
<h3><verse=Malachi 2:2>Malachi 2:2</verse></h3>



If ye will not hear, and if ye will not lay [it] to heart, to give glory (b) unto my name, saith the
LORD of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you, and I will curse your (c) blessings: yea, I have
cursed them already, because ye do not lay [it] to heart.



(b) To serve me according to my word.



(c) That is, the abundance of God's benefits.
#BCV:Malachi 2:3
<h3><verse=Malachi 2:3>Malachi 2:3</verse></h3>



Behold, I will corrupt (d) your seed, and spread dung upon your faces, [even] the (e) dung of your
solemn feasts; and [one] shall take you away with it.



(d) The seed you sow will come to no profit.



(e) You boast of your holiness, sacrifices, and feasts, but they will turn to your shame and be as vile
as dung.
#BCV:Malachi 2:4
<h3><verse=Malachi 2:4>Malachi 2:4</verse></h3>



And ye shall know that I have (f) sent this commandment unto you, that my covenant might be with
Levi, saith the LORD of hosts.



(f) The Priests objected against the Prophet that he could not remove them without speaking against
the priesthood, and the office established by God by promise. But he shows that the office is
nothing slandered, when these villains and dung are called by their own names.
#BCV:Malachi 2:5
<h3><verse=Malachi 2:5>Malachi 2:5</verse></h3>



My (g) covenant was with him of life and peace; and I (h) gave them to him [for] the fear wherewith
he feared me, and was afraid before (i) my name.



(g) He shows what were the two conditions of the covenant made with the tribe of Levi on God's
part, that he would give them long life and felicity, and on their part, that they should faithfully serve
him according to his word.

<page=2368>(h) I commanded Levi a certain law to serve me.



(i) He served me and set forth my glory with all humility and submission.
#BCV:Malachi 2:6
<h3><verse=Malachi 2:6>Malachi 2:6</verse></h3>



The law of (k) truth was in his mouth, and iniquity was not found in his lips: he walked with me in
peace and equity, and did turn many away from iniquity.



(k) He shows that the priests ought to have knowledge to instruct others in the word of the Lord.
#BCV:Malachi 2:7
<h3><verse=Malachi 2:7>Malachi 2:7</verse></h3>



For the priest's (l) lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he [is]
the (m) messenger of the LORD of hosts.



(l) He is as the treasure house of God's word, and ought to give to everyone according to their need,
and not to reserve it for himself.



(m) Showing that whoever does not declare God's will, is not his messenger, and priest.
#BCV:Malachi 2:10
<h3><verse=Malachi 2:10>Malachi 2:10</verse></h3>



Have we not all one (n) father? hath not one God created us? why do we deal treacherously every
man against his brother, by profaning the covenant of (o) our fathers?



(n) The Prophet accuses the ingratitude of the Jews toward God and man: for seeing they were all
born of one father Abraham, as God had elected them to be his holy people, they ought neither to
offend God nor their brethren.



(o) By which they had bound themselves to God to be a holy people.
#BCV:Malachi 2:11
<h3><verse=Malachi 2:11>Malachi 2:11</verse></h3>



Judah hath dealt treacherously, and an abomination is committed in Israel and in Jerusalem; for
Judah hath profaned the holiness of the LORD which he loved, and hath married the (p) daughter
of a strange god.



(p) They have united themselves in marriage with those that are of another religion.
#BCV:Malachi 2:12
<h3><verse=Malachi 2:12>Malachi 2:12</verse></h3>



The LORD will cut off the man that doeth this, the master and the scholar, out of the tabernacles
of Jacob, and him that (q) offereth an offering unto the LORD of hosts.

<page=2369>(q) That is, the priest.
#BCV:Malachi 2:13
<h3><verse=Malachi 2:13>Malachi 2:13</verse></h3>



And this have ye done again, (r) covering the altar of the LORD with tears, with weeping, and with
crying out, insomuch that he regardeth not the offering any more, or receiveth [it] with good will at
your hand.



(r) Yet cause the people to lament, because God does not regard their sacrifices, so that they seem to
sacrifice in vain.
#BCV:Malachi 2:14
<h3><verse=Malachi 2:14>Malachi 2:14</verse></h3>



Yet ye say, (s) Wherefore? Because the LORD hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy
youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously: yet [is] she thy (t) companion, and the wife of
thy (u) covenant.



(s) This is another fault, of which he accuses them, that is, that they broke the laws of marriage.



(t) As the one half of yourself.



(u) She that was united to you by a solemn covenant, and by the invocation of God's name.
#BCV:Malachi 2:15
<h3><verse=Malachi 2:15>Malachi 2:15</verse></h3>



And did not (x) he make one? Yet had he the (y) residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That he
might seek a godly (z) seed. Therefore take heed to your (a) spirit, and let none deal treacherously
against the wife of his youth.



(x) Did not God make man and woman as one flesh and not many?



(y) By his power and strength he could have made many women for one man.



(z) Those who should be born in lawful and moderate marriage, in which is no excess of lusts.



(a) Contain yourselves within your bounds, and be sober in mind, and bridle your affections.
#BCV:Malachi 2:16
<h3><verse=Malachi 2:16>Malachi 2:16</verse></h3>



For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he (b) hateth putting away: for [one] covereth (c)
violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal
not treacherously.



(b) Not that he allows divorce, but of two faults he shows which is the less.

<page=2370>(c) He thinks it sufficient to keep his wife still, even though he takes others, and so as it were covers
his fault.
#BCV:Malachi 2:17
<h3><verse=Malachi 2:17>Malachi 2:17</verse></h3>



Ye have (d) wearied the LORD with your words. Yet ye say, Wherein have we wearied [him]? When
ye say, Every one that doeth (e) evil [is] good in the sight of the LORD, and he delighteth in them;
or, Where [is] the God of (f) judgment?



(d) You murmur against God, because he did not hear you as soon as you called.



(e) In thinking that God favoured the wicked, and had no respect for those that serve him.



(f) Thus they blasphemed God in condemning his power and justice, because he did not judge
according to their imaginings.

<h2>Malachi 3</h2>

#BCV:Malachi 3:1
<h3><verse=Malachi 3:1>Malachi 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2371>Behold, I will send my (a) messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the (b) Lord,
whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the (c) messenger of the covenant, whom ye
delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts.



(a) This is meant of John the Baptist, as Christ interprets it; (<bcv=Luk 7:27>Luk 7:27</bcv>).



(b) Meaning, the Messiah, as in (<bcv=Psa 40:17>Psa 40:17</bcv>;<bcv=Dan 9:17> Dan 9:17</bcv>,<bcv=Dan 9:25> Dan 9:25</bcv>).



(c) That is, Christ, by whom the covenant was made and ratified, who is called the angel or
messenger of the covenant, because he reconciles us to his Father, and is Lord or King, because he
has the rule of his Church.
#BCV:Malachi 3:2
<h3><verse=Malachi 3:2>Malachi 3:2</verse></h3>



But who (d) may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he [is]
like a refiner's fire, and like fullers' soap:



(d) He shows that the hypocrites who wish so much for the Lord's coming will not remain when he
draws near: for he will consume them, and purge his own and make them clean.
#BCV:Malachi 3:3
<h3><verse=Malachi 3:3>Malachi 3:3</verse></h3>



And he shall sit [as] a refiner and purifier of silver: and he shall purify the sons of (e) Levi, and
purge them as gold and silver, that they may offer unto the LORD an offering in righteousness.



(e) He begins at the priests, that they might be lights, and shine unto others.
#BCV:Malachi 3:6
<h3><verse=Malachi 3:6>Malachi 3:6</verse></h3>



For I [am] the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob (f) are not consumed.



(f) They murmured against God, because they did not see his help which was ever present to defend
them: and therefore he accuses them of ingratitude, and shows that in that they are not daily
consumed, it is a sign that he still defends them, and so his mercy towards them never changes.
#BCV:Malachi 3:7
<h3><verse=Malachi 3:7>Malachi 3:7</verse></h3>



Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept
[them]. (g) Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the LORD of hosts. But ye said,
Wherein shall we return?

<page=2372>(g) Read (Zac 1:3).
#BCV:Malachi 3:8
<h3><verse=Malachi 3:8>Malachi 3:8</verse></h3>



Will a (h) man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In (i)
tithes and offerings.



(h) There are none of the heathen so barbarous, that will defraud their gods of their honour, or deal
deceitfully with them.



(i) By which the service of God should have been maintained, and the priests and the poor relieved.
#BCV:Malachi 3:10
<h3><verse=Malachi 3:10>Malachi 3:10</verse></h3>



Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now
herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out
a blessing, (k) that [there shall] not [be room] enough [to receive it].



(k) Not having respect how much you need, but I will give you in all abundance, so that you will lack
place to put my blessings in.
#BCV:Malachi 3:11
<h3><verse=Malachi 3:11>Malachi 3:11</verse></h3>



And I will rebuke the (l) devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground;
neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts.



(l) Meaning the caterpillar, and whatever destroys corn and fruits.
#BCV:Malachi 3:13
<h3><verse=Malachi 3:13>Malachi 3:13</verse></h3>



Your words have been stout (m) against me, saith the LORD. Yet ye say, What have we spoken [so
much] against thee?



(m) The Prophet condemns them of double blasphemy against God: first, in that they said that God
had no respect for those that served him, and next, that the wicked were more in his favour than the
godly.
#BCV:Malachi 3:15
<h3><verse=Malachi 3:15>Malachi 3:15</verse></h3>



And now we call the proud happy; yea, they that work wickedness are set up; yea, [they that] tempt
God are even (n) delivered.



(n) They are not only preferred to honour, but also delivered from dangers.
#BCV:Malachi 3:16
<h3><verse=Malachi 3:16>Malachi 3:16</verse></h3>

#BCV:mal 3:16
<h3><verse=mal 3:16>mal 3:16</verse></h3>



heard [it], and a (p) book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD,
and that thought upon his name.



(o) After these admonitions of the Prophet, some were strongly touched, and encouraged others to
fear God.



(p) Both because the thing was strange that some turned to God in that great and universal
corruption, and also that this might be an example of God's mercies to all repentant sinners.
#BCV:Malachi 3:17
<h3><verse=Malachi 3:17>Malachi 3:17</verse></h3>



And they shall be mine, saith the LORD of hosts, in that day (q) when I make up my jewels; and I
will (r) spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.



(q) When I will restore my Church according to my promise, they will be as my own proper goods.



(r) That is, forgive their sins, and govern them with my Spirit.

<h2>Malachi 4</h2>

#BCV:Malachi 4:1
<h3><verse=Malachi 4:1>Malachi 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=2374>For, behold, the day cometh, that shall (a) burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do
wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the LORD of hosts,
that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.



(a) He prophesies of God's judgments against the wicked, who would not receive Christ, when God
would send him for the restoration of his Church.
#BCV:Malachi 4:2
<h3><verse=Malachi 4:2>Malachi 4:2</verse></h3>



But unto you that fear my name shall the (b) Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings;
and ye shall go (c) forth, and grow up as calves of the stall.



(b) Meaning, Christ, who with his wings or beams of his grace would enlighten and comfort his
Church; (<bcv=Eph 5:14>Eph 5:14</bcv>). And he is called the "Sun of righteousness", because in himself he has all
perfection, and also the justice of the Father dwells in him: by which he regenerates us to
righteousness, cleanses us from the filth of this world, and reforms us to the image of God.



(c) You will be set at liberty, and increase in the joy of the Spirit; (<bcv=2Co 3:17>Co2 3:17</bcv>).

#BCV:Malachi 4:4
<h3><verse=Malachi 4:4>Malachi 4:4</verse></h3>




(d) Remember ye the law of Moses my servant, which I commanded unto him in Horeb for all
Israel, [with] the statutes and judgments.



(d) Because the time had come that the Jews would be destitute of Prophets until the time of Christ,
because they should with more fervent minds desire his coming, the Prophet exhorts them to
exercise themselves diligently in studying the Law of Moses in the meantime, by which they might
continue in the true religion, and also be armed against all temptations.
#BCV:Malachi 4:5
<h3><verse=Malachi 4:5>Malachi 4:5</verse></h3>



Behold, I will send you (e) Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and (f) dreadful day of
the LORD:



(e) This Christ interprets of John the Baptist, who both for his zeal, and restoring or religion, is aptly
compared to Elijah; (<bcv=Mat 11:13-14>Mat 11:13-14</bcv>).



(f) Which as it is true for the wicked, so does it waken the godly, and call them to repentance.
#BCV:Malachi 4:6
<h3><verse=Malachi 4:6>Malachi 4:6</verse></h3>

<page=2375>And he shall (g) turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their
fathers, lest I come and (h) smite the earth with a curse.



(g) He shows in what John's office would consist: in the turning of men to God, and uniting the
father and children in one voice of faith: so that the father will turn to the religion of his son who is
converted to Christ, and the son will embrace the faith of the true fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and
Jacob.



(h) The second point of his office was to give notice of God's judgment against those that would
not receive Christ.

<h1>Matthew</h1>


<h2>Matthew 1</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 1:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 1:1>Matthew 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2377>The (1) (a) book of the (b) generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the (c) son of Abraham.



(1) Jesus Christ came of Abraham of the tribe of Judah, and of the family of David as God
promised.



(a) Rehearsal: as the Hebrews used to speak; see (<bcv=Gen 5:1>Gen 5:1</bcv>), the book of the generations.



(b) Of the ancestors from whom Christ came.



(c) Christ is also the son of Abraham.
#BCV:Matthew 1:11
<h3><verse=Matthew 1:11>Matthew 1:11</verse></h3>



and Josias begat (d) Jechonias and his brethren, at the time of the carrying away of Babylon.



(d) That is, the captivity fell in the days of Jakim and Jechonias: for Jechonias was born before the
carrying away into captivity.
#BCV:Matthew 1:17
<h3><verse=Matthew 1:17>Matthew 1:17</verse></h3>



All (e) the generations, therefore, from Abraham to David [were] fourteen generations; and from
David until the carrying away of Babylon, fourteen generations; and from the carrying away of
Babylon unto the Christ, fourteen generations.



(e) All those who were considered to be in the lineage of David's family, as they begat one another
orderly in turn.
#BCV:Matthew 1:18
<h3><verse=Matthew 1:18>Matthew 1:18</verse></h3>



Now the birth of (2) Jesus Christ was thus: His mother, Mary, that is, having been betrothed to
Joseph, before they came together, she was found to be with child of [the] Holy Spirit.



(2) Christ is the true Emmanuel, and therefore, Jesus (that is, Saviour) is conceived in the virgin by
the Holy Spirit, as foretold by the prophets.
#BCV:Matthew 1:20
<h3><verse=Matthew 1:20>Matthew 1:20</verse></h3>

<page=2378>but while he pondered on these things, behold, an angel of [the] Lord appeared to him in a dream,
saying, Joseph, son of David, fear not to (f) take to [thee] Mary, thy (g) wife, for that which is (h)
begotten in her is of [the] Holy Spirit.



(f) Receive her from her parents and kinsfolks hands.



(g) Who was promised, and made sure to you to be your wife.



(h) Of the mother's substance by the Holy Spirit.
#BCV:Matthew 1:21
<h3><verse=Matthew 1:21>Matthew 1:21</verse></h3>



And she shall bring forth (3) a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save (i) his
people from their sins.



(3) Christ is born of the same virgin who never knew a man: and is named Jesus by God himself
through the angel.



(i) Save, and this shows us the meaning of the name Jesus.
#BCV:Matthew 1:23
<h3><verse=Matthew 1:23>Matthew 1:23</verse></h3>



Behold, a (k) virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name
Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.



(k) There is an article added in the Hebrew and Greek text, to point out the woman and set her
forth plainly: as we would say, the virgin, or a certain virgin.
#BCV:Matthew 1:25
<h3><verse=Matthew 1:25>Matthew 1:25</verse></h3>



And knew her not (l) till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.



(l) The word "till", in the Hebrew language, gives us to understand that a thing will not come to pass
in time to come: as Michal had no children "till" her death day, (<bcv=II Sa 6:23>Sa2 6:23</bcv>). And in the last chapter of
this evangelist: Behold, I am with you "till" the end of the world.

<h2>Matthew 2</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 2:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 2:1>Matthew 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2379>Now when (1) Jesus was born in Bethlehem of (a) Judaea in the days of Herod the king, behold,
there came (b) wise men from the east to Jerusalem,



(1) Christ a poor child, laid down in a crib, and though given no attention by his own people,
receives nonetheless a noble witness of his divinity from heaven, and of his kingly estate from
strangers: which his own people unknowingly let happen, although they did not acknowledge him.



(a) For there was another in the tribe of Zebulun.



(b) Wise and learned men: It is a Persian word which they use frequently.
#BCV:Matthew 2:3
<h3><verse=Matthew 2:3>Matthew 2:3</verse></h3>



When Herod the king had heard [these things], he was (c) troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.



(c) Was much moved, for he was a foreigner, and became ruler by force; and the Jews were troubled;
for wickedness is mad and raging.
#BCV:Matthew 2:4
<h3><verse=Matthew 2:4>Matthew 2:4</verse></h3>



And when he had gathered all the (d) chief priests and (e) scribes of the people together, he
demanded of them where Christ should be born.



(d) The chief priests, that is, such as were of Aaron's family, who were divided into twenty-four
orders. (<bcv=1Ch 24:5>Ch1 24:5</bcv>; <bcv=2Ch 36:14>Ch2 36:14</bcv>).



(e) They that expound the law to the people, for the Hebrews take this word for another, which
means as much as to expound and to declare.

#BCV:Matthew 2:6
<h3><verse=Matthew 2:6>Matthew 2:6</verse></h3>



And thou Bethlehem, [in] the land of Juda, art not the (f) least among the princes of Juda: for out
of thee shall come a Governor, that (g) shall rule my people Israel.



(f) Though you are a small town, yet you will be very famous and notable through the birth of the
Messiah, who will be born in you.



(g) That will rule and govern: for kings are rightly called leaders and shepherds of the people.
#BCV:Matthew 2:11
<h3><verse=Matthew 2:11>Matthew 2:11</verse></h3>

<page=2380>And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and (h)
fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their (i) treasures, they presented unto
him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.



(h) A kind of humble and lovely reverence.



(i) The rich and costly presents, which they brought him.
#BCV:Matthew 2:12
<h3><verse=Matthew 2:12>Matthew 2:12</verse></h3>



And being (k) warned of God in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed into
their own country another way.



(k) God warned and told them of it, even though they did not ask him.
#BCV:Matthew 2:13
<h3><verse=Matthew 2:13>Matthew 2:13</verse></h3>




(2) And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appeareth to Joseph in a dream,
saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be thou there until I
bring thee word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him.



(2) Christ having just been born, begins to be crucified for us, both in himself, and also in his
members.
#BCV:Matthew 2:17
<h3><verse=Matthew 2:17>Matthew 2:17</verse></h3>



Then was fulfilled that which was spoken (l) by Jeremy the prophet, saying,



(l) For God speaketh by the mouth of the prophets.
#BCV:Matthew 2:18
<h3><verse=Matthew 2:18>Matthew 2:18</verse></h3>



In Rama was there (m) a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, (n) Rachel
weeping [for] her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.



(m) A voice of lamenting, weeping and howling.



(n) That is to say, All who live around Bethlehem: for Rachel, Jacob's wife who died in childbirth,
was buried by the road that leads to this town, which is also called Ephratah, because of the
fruitfulness of the soil, and the plentifulness of corn.
#BCV:Matthew 2:19
<h3><verse=Matthew 2:19>Matthew 2:19</verse></h3>




(3) But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in
Egypt,

<page=2381>(3) Christ is brought up in Nazareth, after the death of the tyrant by God's providence: that by the
very name of the place it might plainly appear to the world that he is the Lord's true Nazarite.

<h2>Matthew 3</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 3:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 3:1>Matthew 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2382>In (a) those days came (1) John the Baptist, preaching in the (b) wilderness of Judaea,



(a) Not when Joseph went to dwell at Nazareth, but a great while after, about fifteen years: for in the
30th year of his life Jesus was baptized by John: therefore "those days" means the time when Jesus
remained as an inhabitant of the town of Nazareth. (1) John, who through his singular holiness and
rare austerity of life caused men to cast their eyes on him, prepares the way for Christ who is
following fast on his heels, as the prophet Isaiah foretold, and delivers the sum of the gospel, which
a short time later would be delivered more fully.



(b) In a hilly country, which was nonetheless inhabited, for Zacharias dwelt there, (<bcv=Luk 1:39-40>Luk 1:39-40</bcv>), and
there was Joab's house, (<bcv=I Ki 2:34>Kg1 2:34</bcv>); and besides these, Joshua makes mention of six towns that were
in the wilderness, (<bcv=Jos 15:61-62>Jos 15:61-62</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 3:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 3:2>Matthew 3:2</verse></h3>



And saying, (c) Repent ye: for the (d) kingdom of heaven is at hand.



(c) The word in the greek signifies a changing of our minds and heart from evil to better.



(d) The kingdom of Messiah, whose government will be heavenly, and nothing but heavenly.
#BCV:Matthew 3:3
<h3><verse=Matthew 3:3>Matthew 3:3</verse></h3>



For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the
wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, (e) make his paths straight.



(e) Make him a plain and smooth way.
#BCV:Matthew 3:4
<h3><verse=Matthew 3:4>Matthew 3:4</verse></h3>



And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his
meat was (f) locusts and wild honey.



(f) Locusts were a type of meat which certain of the eastern people use, who were therefore called
devourers of locusts.
#BCV:Matthew 3:5
<h3><verse=Matthew 3:5>Matthew 3:5</verse></h3>



Then went out to him (g) Jerusalem, and all Judaea, and all the region round about Jordan,



(g) The people of Jerusalem.
#BCV:Matthew 3:6
<h3><verse=Matthew 3:6>Matthew 3:6</verse></h3>

<page=2383>And were baptized of him in Jordan, (h) confessing their sins.



(h) Acknowledging that they were saved only by free remission and forgiveness of their sins.
#BCV:Matthew 3:7
<h3><verse=Matthew 3:7>Matthew 3:7</verse></h3>




(2) But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism, he said unto them,
O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come?



(2) There is nothing that shuts up the way of mercy and salvation from us so much as the opinion
of our own righteousness does.
#BCV:Matthew 3:8
<h3><verse=Matthew 3:8>Matthew 3:8</verse></h3>




(3) Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:



(3) True repentance is an inward thing which has its seat in the mind and heart.
#BCV:Matthew 3:9
<h3><verse=Matthew 3:9>Matthew 3:9</verse></h3>




(4) And (i) think not to say (k) within yourselves, We have Abraham to [our] father: for I say unto
you, that God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham.



(4) The faith of the fathers does not benefit you unbelieving children at all: and yet for all that, God
does not play the liar, nor deal unfaithfully in his covenant which he made with the holy fathers.



(i) Think not that you have any reason to be proud of Abraham.



(k) In your hearts.
#BCV:Matthew 3:11
<h3><verse=Matthew 3:11>Matthew 3:11</verse></h3>




(5) I indeed baptize you with water unto (l) repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than
I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Spirit, and [with] fire:



(5) We may neither dwell upon the signs which God has ordained as means to lead us into our
salvation, neither upon those that minister them: but we must climb up to the matter itself, that is to
say, to Christ, who inwardly works that effectually, which is outwardly signified to us.



(l) The outward sign reminds us of this, that we must change our lives and become better, assuring
us as by a seal, that we are ingrafted into Christ; by which our old man dies and the new man rises
up; (<bcv=Rom 6:4>Rom 6:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 3:12
<h3><verse=Matthew 3:12>Matthew 3:12</verse></h3>


<page=2384>(6) Whose fan [is] in his hand, and he will throughly (m) purge his floor, and gather his wheat into
the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.



(6) The triumphs of the wicked will end in everlasting torment.



(m) Will clean it thoroughly, and make a full riddance.
#BCV:Matthew 3:13
<h3><verse=Matthew 3:13>Matthew 3:13</verse></h3>




(7) Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John, to be baptized of him.



(7) Christ sanctified our baptism in himself.
#BCV:Matthew 3:15
<h3><verse=Matthew 3:15>Matthew 3:15</verse></h3>



And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer [it to be so] now: for thus it becometh us to fulfil (n) all
righteousness. Then he suffered him.



(n) All such things as it has appointed for us to keep.
#BCV:Matthew 3:16
<h3><verse=Matthew 3:16>Matthew 3:16</verse></h3>



And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were
opened unto (o) him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him:



(o) To John.
#BCV:Matthew 3:17
<h3><verse=Matthew 3:17>Matthew 3:17</verse></h3>




(8) And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am (p) well pleased.



(8) Christ's full consecration and authorization to the office of mediator is shown by the Father's
own voice and a visible sign of the Holy Spirit.



(p) The Greek word signifies a thing of great worth and such as highly pleases a man. So then the
Father says that Christ is the only man whom when he beholds, looking at what opinion he had
conceived of us, he lays it clean aside.

<h2>Matthew 4</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 4:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 4:1>Matthew 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=2385>Then was (1) Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil.



(1) Christ is tempted in all manner of ways, and still overcomes, that we also through his virtue may
overcome.
#BCV:Matthew 4:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 4:2>Matthew 4:2</verse></h3>



And when he had fasted (a) forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.



(a) A full forty days.
#BCV:Matthew 4:5
<h3><verse=Matthew 4:5>Matthew 4:5</verse></h3>



Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a (b) pinnacle of the temple,



(b) The battlement which encompassed the flat roof of the Temple so that no man might fall down:
as was appointed by the law; (<bcv=Deu 22:8>Deu 22:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 4:7
<h3><verse=Matthew 4:7>Matthew 4:7</verse></h3>



Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not (c) tempt the Lord thy God.



(c) Literally, "Thou shalt not go on still in tempting."
#BCV:Matthew 4:12
<h3><verse=Matthew 4:12>Matthew 4:12</verse></h3>




(2) Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee;



(2) When the Herald's mouth is stopped, the Lord reveals himself and brings full light into the
darkness of this world, preaching free forgiveness of sins for those that repent.
#BCV:Matthew 4:13
<h3><verse=Matthew 4:13>Matthew 4:13</verse></h3>



And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in (d) Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the
borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim:



(d) Which was a town a great deal more famous than Nazareth was.
#BCV:Matthew 4:15
<h3><verse=Matthew 4:15>Matthew 4:15</verse></h3>

<page=2386>The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, [by] the way of the (e) sea, beyond Jordan, (f)
Galilee of the Gentiles;



(e) Of Tiberias, or because that country went toward Tyre, which borders the eastern Mediterranean
Sea.



(f) So called because it bordered upon Tyre and Sidon, and because Solomon gave the king of Tyre
twenty cities in that quarter; (<bcv=I Ki 9:11>Kg1 9:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 4:17
<h3><verse=Matthew 4:17>Matthew 4:17</verse></h3>



From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at (g) hand.



(g) Is come to you.
#BCV:Matthew 4:18
<h3><verse=Matthew 4:18>Matthew 4:18</verse></h3>




(3) And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his
brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers.



(3) Christ, thinking that he would eventually depart from us, even at the beginning of his preaching
gets himself disciples of a heavenly sort, poor and unlearned, and therefore such as might be left as
honest witnesses of the truth of those things which they heard and saw.
#BCV:Matthew 4:23
<h3><verse=Matthew 4:23>Matthew 4:23</verse></h3>



And (4) Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in (h) their (i) synagogues, and preaching the gospel of
the (k) kingdom, and healing (l) all manner of sickness and all manner of (m) disease among the
people.



(4) Christ assures the hearts of the believers of his spiritual and saving virtue, by healing the diseases
of the body.



(h) Their, that is, the Galilaeans.



(i) Synagogues, that is, the Churches of the Jews.



(k) Of the Messiah.



(l) Diseases of all kinds, but not every disease: that is, as we say, some of every kind.



(m) The word properly signifies the weakness of the stomach: but here it is taken for those diseases
which make those that have them faint and wear away.
#BCV:Matthew 4:24
<h3><verse=Matthew 4:24>Matthew 4:24</verse></h3>

<page=2387>And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken
with divers diseases and (n) torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which
were (o) lunatick, and those that had the (p) palsy; and he healed them.



(n) The word signifies properly the stone with which gold is tried: and by a borrowed kind of speech,
is applied to all kinds of examinations by torture, when as by rough dealing and torments, we draw
out the truths from men who otherwise would not confess: in this place it is taken for those diseases,
which put sick men to great woe.



(o) Who at every full moon or the change of the moon, are troubled and diseased.



(p) Weak and feeble men, who have the parts of their body loosed and so weakened, that they are
neither able to gather them up together, nor do with them as they wish.

<h2>Matthew 5</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 5:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:2>Matthew 5:2</verse></h3>


<page=2388>(1) And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,



(1) Christ teaches that the greatest joy and happiness is not in the conveniences and pleasures of this
life, but is laid up in heaven for those who willingly rest in the good will and pleasure of God, and
endeavour to profit all men, although they are cruelly vexed and troubled by those of the world,
because they will not adapt themselves to their ways.
#BCV:Matthew 5:3
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:3>Matthew 5:3</verse></h3>



Blessed [are] the (a) poor in (b) spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.



(a) Under the name of poverty are meant all the miseries, that are joined with poverty.



(b) Whose minds and spirits are brought under control, and tamed, and obey God.
#BCV:Matthew 5:8
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:8>Matthew 5:8</verse></h3>



Blessed [are] the (c) pure in heart: for they shall see God.



(c) Fitly is this word "pure" joined with the heart, for as a bright and shining resemblance or image
may be seen plainly in a clear and pure looking glass, even so does the face (as it were) of the
everlasting God, shine forth, and clearly appear in a pure heart.
#BCV:Matthew 5:13
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:13>Matthew 5:13</verse></h3>



Ye (2) are the salt of the (d) earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be (e) salted?
it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men.



(2) The ministers of the word especially (unless they will be the most cowardly of all) must lead
others both by word and deed to this greatest joy and happiness.



(d) Your doctrine must be very sound and good, for if it is not so, it will be not regarded and cast
away as a thing unsavoury and vain.



(e) What will you have to salt with? And so are fools in the Latin tongue called "saltless", as you
would say, men that have no salt or savour and taste in them.
#BCV:Matthew 5:14
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:14>Matthew 5:14</verse></h3>



Ye are the (f) light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

<page=2389>(f) You shine and give light by being made partakers of the true light.
#BCV:Matthew 5:17
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:17>Matthew 5:17</verse></h3>




(3) Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but (g)
to fulfil.



(3) Christ did not come to bring any new way of righteousness and salvation into the world, but
indeed to fulfil that which was shadowed by the figures of the Law, by delivering men through grace
from the curse of the Law: and moreover to teach the true use of obedience which the Law
appointed, and to engrave in our hearts the power for obedience.



(g) That the prophecies may be accomplished.
#BCV:Matthew 5:19
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:19>Matthew 5:19</verse></h3>




(4) Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he
shall be called the (h) least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach [them], the
same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.



(4) He begins with the true expounding of the Law, and sets it against the old (but yet false)
teachings of the scribes: He is in no way abolishing the least commandment of his Father.



(h) He shall have no place in the Church.
#BCV:Matthew 5:21
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:21>Matthew 5:21</verse></h3>




(5) Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill
shall be in danger of the judgment:



(5) The true meaning of the first commandment.
#BCV:Matthew 5:22
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:22>Matthew 5:22</verse></h3>



But I say unto you, That whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be (i) in danger (k)
of the judgment: and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the (l) council:
but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of (m) hell (n) fire.



(i) He speaks of the judgment of God, and of the difference of sins, and therefore applies his
words to the form of civil judgments which were then used.



(k) Of that judgment which was ruled by three men, who had the hearing and deciding of money
matters, and such other small causes.

<page=2390>(l) By that judgment which stood of 23 judges, who had the hearing and deciding of weighty affairs,
as the matter of a whole tribe or of a high priest, or of a false prophet.



(m) Whereas we read here "hell", it is in the text itself <transhebrew>"Gehenna",<english> which is one Hebrew word made
out of two, and is as if to say "as the Valley of Hinnom", which the Hebrews called <transhebrew>Topheth:<english> it was
a place where the Israelites cruelly sacrificed their children to false gods, whereupon it was taken for
a place appointed to torment the reprobates in (<bcv=Jer 7:31>Jer 7:31</bcv>).



(n) The Jews used four kinds of punishments, before their government was taken away by Herod:
hanging, beheading, stoning, and burning. It is burning that Christ meant, because burning was the
greatest punishment; therefore by making mention of a judgment, a council, and a fire, he shows
that some sins are worse than others are, but yet they are all such that we must give account for them,
and will be punished for them.
#BCV:Matthew 5:23
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:23>Matthew 5:23</verse></h3>




(6) Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the (o) altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath
ought against thee;



(6) The covetous Pharisees taught that God was appeased by the sacrifices appointed in the law,
which they themselves devoured. But Christ on the contrary side denies that God accepts any man's
offering, unless he makes satisfaction to his brother whom he has offended: and says moreover, that
these stubborn and stiff-necked despisers of their brethren will never escape the wrath and curse of
God before they have made full satisfaction to their brethren.



(o) He applies all this speech to the state of his time, when there was then an altar standing in
Jerusalem, and therefore they are very foolish that gather from this that we must build altars and use
sacrifices: but they are bigger fools who consider this to be purgatory, which is spoken of as peace
making and atonement one with another.
#BCV:Matthew 5:25
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:25>Matthew 5:25</verse></h3>




(p) Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in the way with him; lest at any time the
adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou be cast into
prison.



(p) Remove all cause for enmity.
#BCV:Matthew 5:26
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:26>Matthew 5:26</verse></h3>



Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast (q) paid the uttermost
farthing.



(q) You will be dealt with in this manner, to the utmost extremity.
#BCV:Matthew 5:27
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:27>Matthew 5:27</verse></h3>


<page=2391>(7) Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:



(7) He is taken for an adulterer before God, whoever he is, that covets a woman: and therefore we
must keep our eyes chaste, and all the members we have, yea and we must avoid all opportunities
that might move us to evil, no matter what it costs us.
#BCV:Matthew 5:29
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:29>Matthew 5:29</verse></h3>



And if thy (r) right eye (s) offend thee, pluck it out, and cast [it] from thee: for it is profitable for
thee that one of thy members should perish, and not [that] thy whole body should be cast into hell.



(r) He names the right eye and the right hand, because the parts of the right side of our bodies are
the chiefest, and the most ready to commit any wickedness.



(s) Literally, do cause you to offend: for sins are stumbling blocks as it were, that is to say, rocks
which we are cast upon.
#BCV:Matthew 5:33
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:33>Matthew 5:33</verse></h3>




(8) Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself,
but shalt perform unto the Lord thine oaths:



(8) The meaning of the third commandment against the perverse opinion and judgment of the
scribes, who excused by oaths or indirect forms of swearing.
#BCV:Matthew 5:37
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:37>Matthew 5:37</verse></h3>



But let your communication be, (t) Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of



(u) evil.



(t) Whatever you affirm, affirm it alone, and whatever you deny, deny it alone without any more
words.



(u) From an evil conscience, or from the devil.
#BCV:Matthew 5:38
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:38>Matthew 5:38</verse></h3>




(9) Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth:



(9) He shows that contrary to the doctrine of the scribes, that the sum of the second table must be
so understood, that we may in no wise render evil for evil, but rather suffer double injury, and do
well to them that are our deadly enemies.
#BCV:Matthew 5:45
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:45>Matthew 5:45</verse></h3>


<page=2392>(10) That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on
the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.



(10) A double reason: the one is taken of the relatives, The children must be like their father: the
other is taken of comparisons, The children of God must be better than the children of this world.
#BCV:Matthew 5:47
<h3><verse=Matthew 5:47>Matthew 5:47</verse></h3>



And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more [than others]? do not even the (x) publicans so?



(x) They that were the toll masters, and had the oversight of tributes and customs: this was a type of
man that the Jews hated to death, both because they served the Romans in those offices (whose
heavy bondage they could not overthrow) and also because these toll masters were for the most part
given to covetousness.

<h2>Matthew 6</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 6:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:1>Matthew 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=2393>Take heed that ye do not your (1) alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no (a)
reward of your Father which is in heaven.



(1) Ambition makes alms vain.



(a) This word "reward" is always taken in the scriptures for a free recompense, and therefore the
schoolmen fondly set it to be answerable to a deserving, which they call "merit".
#BCV:Matthew 6:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:2>Matthew 6:2</verse></h3>



Therefore when thou doest [thine] alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the (b) hypocrites
do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They
have their reward.



(b) Counterfeits, for hypocrites were players that played a part in a play.
#BCV:Matthew 6:5
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:5>Matthew 6:5</verse></h3>




(2) And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites [are]: for they love to pray standing in
the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you,
They have their reward.



(2) He rebukes two revolting faults in prayer, ambition, and vain babbling.
#BCV:Matthew 6:7
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:7>Matthew 6:7</verse></h3>



But when ye pray, use not (c) vain repetitions, as the heathen [do]: for they think that they shall be
heard for their much speaking.



(c) Long prayers are not condemned, but vain, needless, and superstitious ones.
#BCV:Matthew 6:9
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:9>Matthew 6:9</verse></h3>




(3) After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.



(3) A true sum and form of all christian prayers.
#BCV:Matthew 6:11
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:11>Matthew 6:11</verse></h3>



Give us this day our (d) daily bread.

<page=2394>(d) That which is suitable for our nature for our daily food, or such as may suffice our nature and
complexion.
#BCV:Matthew 6:13
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:13>Matthew 6:13</verse></h3>



And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from (e) evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the
power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.



(e) From the devil, or from all adversity.
#BCV:Matthew 6:14
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:14>Matthew 6:14</verse></h3>




(4) For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you:



(4) They that forgive wrongs, to them sins are forgiven, but revenge is prepared for them that take
revenge.
#BCV:Matthew 6:16
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:16>Matthew 6:16</verse></h3>




(5) Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a sad countenance: for they (f) disfigure
their faces, that they may appear unto men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.



(5) That is, those that desire a name of holiness by fasting.



(f) They do not let their original pallor to be seen, that is to say, they mar the natural colour of their
faces, that they may seem lean and palefaced.
#BCV:Matthew 6:19
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:19>Matthew 6:19</verse></h3>




(6) Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where
thieves break through and steal:



(6) The labours of those men are shown to be vain, which pass not for the assured treasure of
everlasting life, but spend their lives in scraping together stale and vain riches.
#BCV:Matthew 6:22
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:22>Matthew 6:22</verse></h3>




(7) The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine (g) eye be single, thy whole body shall be full
of light.



(7) Men maliciously and wickedly put out even the little light of nature that is in them.



(g) The judgment of the mind: that as the body is with the eyes, so our whole life may be ruled with
right reason, that is to say, with the Spirit of God who gives light to us.
#BCV:Matthew 6:24
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:24>Matthew 6:24</verse></h3>


<page=2395>(8) No man can serve (h) two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he
will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and (i) mammon.



(8) God will be worshipped by the whole man.



(h) Who are at odds with one another, for if two agree they are as one.



(i) This word is a Syrian word, and signifies all things that belong to money.
#BCV:Matthew 6:25
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:25>Matthew 6:25</verse></h3>




(9) Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink;
nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than
raiment?



(9) The perverse burdensome carefulness for things of this life, is corrected in the children of God
by an earnest thinking upon the providence of God.
#BCV:Matthew 6:26
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:26>Matthew 6:26</verse></h3>



Behold the fowls of the (k) air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet
your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?



(k) Of the air, or that line in the air: in almost all languages the word "heaven" is taken for the air.
#BCV:Matthew 6:27
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:27>Matthew 6:27</verse></h3>



Which of you by (l) taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?



(l) He speaks of care which is joined with thought of mind, and has for the most part distrust yoked
with it.
#BCV:Matthew 6:28
<h3><verse=Matthew 6:28>Matthew 6:28</verse></h3>



And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they (m) toil
not, neither do they spin:



(m) By labour.

<h2>Matthew 7</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 7:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 7:1>Matthew 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=2396>Judge (1) not, that ye be not judged.



(1) We ought to find fault with one another, but we must beware we do not do it without cause, or
to seem holier than others or because of hatred of others.
#BCV:Matthew 7:6
<h3><verse=Matthew 7:6>Matthew 7:6</verse></h3>




(2) Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your (a) pearls before swine, lest they
trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.



(2) The stiff-necked and stubborn enemies of the gospel are unworthy to have it preached unto
them.



(a) A pearl is known among the Greeks for its oriental brightness: and a pearl was in ancient times
greatly valued by the Latins: for a pearl that Cleopatra had was valued at two hundred and fifty
thousand crowns: and the word is now borrowed from that, to signify the most precious heavenly
doctrine.
#BCV:Matthew 7:7
<h3><verse=Matthew 7:7>Matthew 7:7</verse></h3>




(3) Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you:



(3) Prayers are a sure refuge in all miseries.
#BCV:Matthew 7:12
<h3><verse=Matthew 7:12>Matthew 7:12</verse></h3>




(4) Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for
this is the (b) law and the prophets.



(4) An explanation of the meaning of the second table.



(b) That is to say, The doctrine of the law and prophets.
#BCV:Matthew 7:13
<h3><verse=Matthew 7:13>Matthew 7:13</verse></h3>




(5) Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide [is] the gate, and broad [is] the way, that leadeth to
destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:



(5) The example of life must not be taken from the multitude.
#BCV:Matthew 7:14
<h3><verse=Matthew 7:14>Matthew 7:14</verse></h3>

#BCV:mat 7:14
<h3><verse=mat 7:14>mat 7:14</verse></h3>



find it.



(c) The way is straight and narrow: we must pass through this rough way and suffer, endure, be
changed and so enter into life.
#BCV:Matthew 7:15
<h3><verse=Matthew 7:15>Matthew 7:15</verse></h3>




(6) Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening
wolves.



(6) False teachers must be taken heed of: and they are known by false doctrine and evil living.
#BCV:Matthew 7:21
<h3><verse=Matthew 7:21>Matthew 7:21</verse></h3>




(7) Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he
that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.



(7) Even the best gifts that exist are nothing without godliness.
#BCV:Matthew 7:22
<h3><verse=Matthew 7:22>Matthew 7:22</verse></h3>



Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy (d) name? and in thy
name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many (e) wonderful works?



(d) By "name" here is meant mighty working power of God, which every man witnesses that calls
upon him.



(e) Properly, powers: Now these excellent works which are done are called powers because of those
things which they bring to pass, for by them we understand how mighty the power of God is.
#BCV:Matthew 7:23
<h3><verse=Matthew 7:23>Matthew 7:23</verse></h3>



And then will I profess unto them, (f) I never knew you: depart from me, (g) ye that work iniquity.



(f) This is not of ignorance, but because he will cast them away.



(g) You that are given to all kinds of wickedness, and seem to make an art of sin.
#BCV:Matthew 7:24
<h3><verse=Matthew 7:24>Matthew 7:24</verse></h3>




(8) Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise
man, which built his house upon a rock:

<page=2398>(8) True godliness rests only upon Christ, and therefore always remains invincible.

<h2>Matthew 8</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 8:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 8:2>Matthew 8:2</verse></h3>


<page=2399>(1) And, behold, there came a leper and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make
me clean.



(1) Christ in healing the leprous with the touch of his hand, shows that he abhors no sinners that
come unto him, be they ever so unclean.
#BCV:Matthew 8:5
<h3><verse=Matthew 8:5>Matthew 8:5</verse></h3>




(2) And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a centurion, beseeching him,



(2) Christ by setting before them the example of the uncircumcised centurion and yet of an
excellent faith, provokes the Jews to jealousy, and together forewarns them of their being cast off
and the calling of the Gentiles.
#BCV:Matthew 8:11
<h3><verse=Matthew 8:11>Matthew 8:11</verse></h3>



And I say unto you, That many shall come from the east and west, and shall (a) sit down with
Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.



(a) A metaphor taken of banqueters, for they that sit down together are fellows in the banquet.
#BCV:Matthew 8:12
<h3><verse=Matthew 8:12>Matthew 8:12</verse></h3>



But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into (b) outer darkness: there shall be weeping and
gnashing of teeth.



(b) Who are outside the kingdom: For in the kingdom is light, and outside the kingdom is darkness.
#BCV:Matthew 8:14
<h3><verse=Matthew 8:14>Matthew 8:14</verse></h3>




(3) And when Jesus was come into Peter's house, he saw his wife's mother laid, and sick of a fever.



(3) Christ, in healing many diseases, shows that he was sent by his Father, that in him only we should
seek remedy in all our miseries.
#BCV:Matthew 8:16
<h3><verse=Matthew 8:16>Matthew 8:16</verse></h3>



When the even was come, they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils: and he cast
out the spirits with [his] word, and healed (c) all that were sick:

<page=2400>(c) Of all sorts.
#BCV:Matthew 8:18
<h3><verse=Matthew 8:18>Matthew 8:18</verse></h3>



Now when Jesus saw great multitudes about him, he gave commandment to depart unto the (d)
other side.



(d) For Capernaum was situated upon the lake of Tiberias.
#BCV:Matthew 8:19
<h3><verse=Matthew 8:19>Matthew 8:19</verse></h3>




(4) And a certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.



(4) The true disciples of Christ must prepare themselves for all kinds of miseries.
#BCV:Matthew 8:20
<h3><verse=Matthew 8:20>Matthew 8:20</verse></h3>



And Jesus saith unto him, The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air [have] (e) nests; but the Son
of man hath not where to lay [his] head.



(e) Literally, "shades made with boughs".
#BCV:Matthew 8:21
<h3><verse=Matthew 8:21>Matthew 8:21</verse></h3>




(5) And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.



(5) When God requires our labour, we must cease all our duty to men.
#BCV:Matthew 8:23
<h3><verse=Matthew 8:23>Matthew 8:23</verse></h3>




(6) And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him.



(6) Although Christ often seems to neglect his own, even in most extreme dangers, yet in due time
he calms all tempests, and brings his own to the haven.
#BCV:Matthew 8:28
<h3><verse=Matthew 8:28>Matthew 8:28</verse></h3>




(7) And when he was come to the other side into the country of the Gergesenes, there met him two
possessed with devils, coming out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man might pass by that
way.



(7) Christ came to deliver men from the miserable enslavement of Satan: but the world would rather
go without Christ, than the vilest and least of their conveniences.
#BCV:Matthew 8:30
<h3><verse=Matthew 8:30>Matthew 8:30</verse></h3>

#BCV:mat 8:30
<h3><verse=mat 8:30>mat 8:30</verse></h3>




(f) On a hill, as Mark and Luke witness: Now Gederah, as Josephus records, book seventeen chapter
thirteen, lived after the order of the Greeks and therefore we must not be surprised if there were
swine there.
#BCV:Matthew 8:34
<h3><verse=Matthew 8:34>Matthew 8:34</verse></h3>



And, behold, the whole city came out to meet Jesus: and when they saw him, they besought [him]
that he would (g) depart out of their coasts.



(g) Where men live as swine, there Christ does not abide, but demons.

<h2>Matthew 9</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 9:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 9:1>Matthew 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=2402>And he (1) entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into his (a) own city.



(1) Sins are the cause of our afflictions, and Christ only forgives them if we believe.



(a) Into Capernaum, for as Theophylact says, Bethlehem brought him forth, Nazareth brought him
up, and Capernaum was his dwelling place.
#BCV:Matthew 9:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 9:2>Matthew 9:2</verse></h3>



And, behold, they brought to him a man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed: and Jesus (b) seeing their
faith said unto the sick of the palsy; Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee.



(b) Knowing by a manifest sign.
#BCV:Matthew 9:3
<h3><verse=Matthew 9:3>Matthew 9:3</verse></h3>



And, behold, certain of the scribes said within themselves, This [man] (c) blasphemeth.



(c) To blaspheme, signifies among the divines, to speak wickedly: and among the more eloquent
Greeks, to slander.
#BCV:Matthew 9:9
<h3><verse=Matthew 9:9>Matthew 9:9</verse></h3>




(2) And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man, named Matthew, sitting at the (d) receipt
of custom: and he saith unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him.



(2) Christ calls the humble sinners unto him, but he condemns the proud hypocrites.



(d) At the table where the tax was received.
#BCV:Matthew 9:10
<h3><verse=Matthew 9:10>Matthew 9:10</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house, behold, many publicans and (e) sinners came
and sat down with him and his disciples.



(e) The publicans who were placed by the Romans, after that time Judea was brought into the form
of a province, to gather the taxes, and therefore by the rest of the Jews they were called sinners, that
is to say, very vile men.
#BCV:Matthew 9:14
<h3><verse=Matthew 9:14>Matthew 9:14</verse></h3>


<page=2403>(3) Then came to him the disciples of John, saying, Why do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but thy
disciples fast not?



(3) That is, wicked rivalry in matters of small importance.
#BCV:Matthew 9:15
<h3><verse=Matthew 9:15>Matthew 9:15</verse></h3>



And Jesus said unto them, Can the (f) children of the bridechamber mourn, as long as the
bridegroom is with them? but the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them,
and then shall they fast.



(f) A Hebrew idiom, for they that are admitted into the marriage chamber are as the bridegroom's
closest friends.
#BCV:Matthew 9:16
<h3><verse=Matthew 9:16>Matthew 9:16</verse></h3>



No man putteth a piece of (g) new cloth unto an old garment, for that which is put in to fill it up
taketh from the garment, and the rent is made worse.



(g) Raw, which was never processed by the fuller.
#BCV:Matthew 9:18
<h3><verse=Matthew 9:18>Matthew 9:18</verse></h3>




(4) While he spake these things unto them, behold, there came a certain ruler, and worshipped him,
saying, My daughter is even now dead: but come and lay thy hand upon her, and she shall live.



(4) There is no evil so old, and incurable, which Christ cannot heal by and by, if he is touched with
true faith, but lightly as it were with the hand.
#BCV:Matthew 9:23
<h3><verse=Matthew 9:23>Matthew 9:23</verse></h3>




(5) And when Jesus came into the ruler's house, and saw the (h) minstrels and the people making a
noise,



(5) Even death itself gives place to the power of Christ.



(h) It appears that they used minstrels at their mournings.
#BCV:Matthew 9:27
<h3><verse=Matthew 9:27>Matthew 9:27</verse></h3>




(6) And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men followed him, crying, and saying, [Thou] Son of
David, have mercy on us.



(6) By healing these two blind men Christ shows that he is the light of the world.
#BCV:Matthew 9:32
<h3><verse=Matthew 9:32>Matthew 9:32</verse></h3>


<page=2404>(7) As they went out, behold, they brought to him a dumb man possessed with a devil.



(7) An example of that power that Christ has over the devil.
#BCV:Matthew 9:36
<h3><verse=Matthew 9:36>Matthew 9:36</verse></h3>




(8) But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted,
and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.



(8) Although the ordinary pastors cease, yet Christ has not cast off the care of his Church.
#BCV:Matthew 9:38
<h3><verse=Matthew 9:38>Matthew 9:38</verse></h3>



Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will (i) send forth labourers into his harvest.



(i) Literally, "cast them out": for men are very slow in a work so holy.

<h2>Matthew 10</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 10:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:1>Matthew 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=2405>And (1) when he had called unto [him] his twelve disciples, he gave them power [against] unclean
spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.



(1) The apostles are sent to preach the gospel in Israel.
#BCV:Matthew 10:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:2>Matthew 10:2</verse></h3>



Now the names of the twelve apostles are these; The (a) first, Simon, who is called Peter, and
Andrew his brother; James [the son] of Zebedee, and John his brother;



(a) Theophylact says that Peter and Andrew are called the first, because they were first called.
#BCV:Matthew 10:4
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:4>Matthew 10:4</verse></h3>



Simon the Canaanite, and Judas (b) Iscariot, who also betrayed him.



(b) A man of Kerioth. Now Kerioth was in the tribe of Judah; (<bcv=Jos 15:25>Jos 15:25</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 10:7
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:7>Matthew 10:7</verse></h3>




(2) And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.



(2) The sum of the gospel, or preaching of the apostles.
#BCV:Matthew 10:8
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:8>Matthew 10:8</verse></h3>




(3) Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.



(3) Miracles are signs verifying the word.
#BCV:Matthew 10:9
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:9>Matthew 10:9</verse></h3>




(4) Provide (c) neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses,



(4) The ministers of the word must cast away all cares that might hinder them, even the least of
them.



(c) For this journey, namely, both that nothing might hinder them, and also that they might feel
some taste of God's providence: for at their return back, the Lord asked of them whether they
lacked anything by the way, (<bcv=Luk 22:35>Luk 22:35</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 10:10
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:10>Matthew 10:10</verse></h3>

<page=2406>Nor scrip for [your] journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is
worthy of his (d) meat.



(d) God will provide you with food.
#BCV:Matthew 10:11
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:11>Matthew 10:11</verse></h3>




(5) And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till
ye go thence.



(5) Happy are they that receive the preaching of the gospel: and unhappy are they that refuse it.
#BCV:Matthew 10:13
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:13>Matthew 10:13</verse></h3>



And if the house be worthy, let your (e) peace come upon it: but if it be not worthy, let your peace
return to you.



(e) It is an idiom taken from the Hebrews, by which they meant every type of happiness.
#BCV:Matthew 10:16
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:16>Matthew 10:16</verse></h3>




(6) Behold, I send you forth as (f) sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and



(g) harmless as doves.



(6) Christ shows how the ministers must behave themselves under the cross.



(f) You will be in great danger.



(g) You will not so much as take revenge for an injury: and by the mixing of these beast's natures
together, he will not have our wisdom to be malicious, nor our simplicity mad, but a certain form of
good nature which is composed exquisitely of both of them.
#BCV:Matthew 10:17
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:17>Matthew 10:17</verse></h3>



But beware of (h) men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their
synagogues;



(h) For in the cause of religion men are wolves to each other.
#BCV:Matthew 10:23
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:23>Matthew 10:23</verse></h3>

<page=2407>But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into another: for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not
have (i) gone over the cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.



(i) Bring to an end, that is, you will not have gone through all the cities of Israel and preached in
them.
#BCV:Matthew 10:25
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:25>Matthew 10:25</verse></h3>



It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master, and the servant as his lord. If they have called
the master of the house (k) Beelzebub, how much more [shall they call] them of his household?



(k) It was the idol of the Acronites, which we call the god of flies.
#BCV:Matthew 10:26
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:26>Matthew 10:26</verse></h3>




(l) Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that
shall not be known.



(l) Truth will not always be hidden.
#BCV:Matthew 10:27
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:27>Matthew 10:27</verse></h3>



What I tell you in darkness, [that] speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, [that] preach ye upon
the (m) housetops.



(m) Openly, and in the highest places. For the tops of their houses were made in such a way that
they might walk upon them; (<bcv=Acts 10:9>Act 10:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 10:28
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:28>Matthew 10:28</verse></h3>



And (n) fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which
is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.



(n) Though tyrants rage and are cruel, yet we must not fear them.
#BCV:Matthew 10:29
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:29>Matthew 10:29</verse></h3>



Are not two sparrows sold for a (o) farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without
your Father.



(o) The fourth part of an ounce or seven grams.
#BCV:Matthew 10:32
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:32>Matthew 10:32</verse></h3>


<page=2408>(7) Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father
which is in heaven.



(7) The necessity and reward of openly confessing Christ.
#BCV:Matthew 10:34
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:34>Matthew 10:34</verse></h3>




(8) Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword.



(8) Civil dissentions follow the preaching of the gospel.
#BCV:Matthew 10:37
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:37>Matthew 10:37</verse></h3>




(9) He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or
daughter more than me is not worthy of me.



(9) Without exception, nothing is to be preferred before our duty to God.
#BCV:Matthew 10:39
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:39>Matthew 10:39</verse></h3>



He that (p) findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.



(p) They are said to find their life, who deliver it out of danger: and this is spoken against the
opinion of the people, who think those that die are certainly lost, because they think not of the life
to come.
#BCV:Matthew 10:40
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:40>Matthew 10:40</verse></h3>




(10) He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me.



(10) God is both author and revenger of his holy ministry.
#BCV:Matthew 10:41
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:41>Matthew 10:41</verse></h3>




(11) He that receiveth a prophet in (q) the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and
he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's
reward.



(11) We will lose nothing that is bestowed on Christ.



(q) As a Prophet.
#BCV:Matthew 10:42
<h3><verse=Matthew 10:42>Matthew 10:42</verse></h3>

<page=2409>And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these (r) little ones a cup of cold [water] only in the
name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.



(r) Who in the sight of the world are vile and abject.

<h2>Matthew 11</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 11:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 11:1>Matthew 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=2410>And (1) it came to pass, when Jesus had made an end of (a) commanding his twelve disciples, he
departed thence to teach and to preach in (b) their cities.



(1) Christ shows by his works that he is the promised Messiah.



(a) Of instructing them with precepts.



(b) The disciples' cities, that is to say, in Galilee, where many of them were born; (<bcv=Acts 2:7>Act 2:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 11:7
<h3><verse=Matthew 11:7>Matthew 11:7</verse></h3>




(2) And as they departed, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John, What went ye out
into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind?



(2) The similarity and the difference between the ministry of the prophets, the preaching of John,
and the full light, of the gospel, which Christ has brought.
#BCV:Matthew 11:11
<h3><verse=Matthew 11:11>Matthew 11:11</verse></h3>



Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John
the Baptist: notwithstanding he that is least in the (c) kingdom of heaven is greater than he.



(c) In the new state of the Church where the true glory of God shines: the people are not compared
together, but the types of doctrines, the preaching of John with the law and the prophets: and again,
the most clear preaching of the gospel is compared with John's.
#BCV:Matthew 11:13
<h3><verse=Matthew 11:13>Matthew 11:13</verse></h3>



For all the prophets and the law (d) prophesied until John.



(d) They prophesied of things to come, which are now present, and clearly and plainly seen.
#BCV:Matthew 11:16
<h3><verse=Matthew 11:16>Matthew 11:16</verse></h3>




(3) But whereunto shall I liken this generation? (e) It is like unto children sitting in the markets, and
calling unto their fellows,



(3) There are none who are more stout and stubborn enemies of the gospel, than they to whom it
ought to be most acceptable.

<page=2411>(e) He blames the perverseness of this age, by a proverb, in that they could be moved neither with
rough nor gentle dealing.
#BCV:Matthew 11:19
<h3><verse=Matthew 11:19>Matthew 11:19</verse></h3>



The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber,
a friend of publicans and sinners. (4) But (f) wisdom is justified of her children.



(4) That which the many refuse, the elect and chosen embrace.



(f) Wise men acknowledge the wisdom of the gospel when they receive it.
#BCV:Matthew 11:20
<h3><verse=Matthew 11:20>Matthew 11:20</verse></h3>




(5) Then began he to upbraid the cities wherein most of his mighty works were done, because they
repented not:



(5) The proud reject the gospel offered to them (to their great hurt and pain) which leads to the
salvation of the simple.
#BCV:Matthew 11:25
<h3><verse=Matthew 11:25>Matthew 11:25</verse></h3>



At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because
thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast (g) revealed them unto babes.



(g) Through the ministry of Christ, who alone shows the truth of all things pertaining to God.
#BCV:Matthew 11:26
<h3><verse=Matthew 11:26>Matthew 11:26</verse></h3>




(h) Even so, Father: for so it seemed (i) good in thy sight.



(h) This word shows that he contents himself in his Father's council.



(i) God's will is the only rule of righteousness.
#BCV:Matthew 11:27
<h3><verse=Matthew 11:27>Matthew 11:27</verse></h3>




(6) All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father;
neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and [he] to whomsoever the Son will reveal [him].



(6) There is no true knowledge of God, nor quietness of mind, but only in Christ alone.
#BCV:Matthew 11:30
<h3><verse=Matthew 11:30>Matthew 11:30</verse></h3>



For my yoke [is] (k) easy, and my burden is light.

<page=2412>(k) May easily be carried. For his commandments are not grievous, for all who are born of God
overcome the world; (<bcv=1Jo 5:4>Jo1 5:4</bcv>).

<h2>Matthew 12</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 12:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:1>Matthew 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=2413>At (1) that time Jesus went on the sabbath day through the corn; and his disciples were an hungred,
and began to pluck the ears of corn, and to eat.



(1) Of the true sanctifying of the sabbath, and the breaking of it.
#BCV:Matthew 12:4
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:4>Matthew 12:4</verse></h3>



How he entered into the house of God, and did eat the (a) shewbread, which was not lawful for him
to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests?



(a) The Hebrews call it "bread of faces", because it stood before the Lord all the week upon the
golden table appointed for that service; (<bcv=Lev 24:6>Lev 24:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 12:5
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:5>Matthew 12:5</verse></h3>



Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple (b) profane
the sabbath, and are blameless?



(b) When the priests do God's service on the sabbath day, they do not break the law: much less does
the Lord of the Sabbath break the sabbath.
#BCV:Matthew 12:9
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:9>Matthew 12:9</verse></h3>




(2) And when he was departed thence, he went into their synagogue:



(2) The ceremonies of the law are not against the love of our neighbour.
#BCV:Matthew 12:14
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:14>Matthew 12:14</verse></h3>




(3) Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council against him, how they might destroy him.



(3) How far and in what aspect we may give place to the unbridled rage of the wicked.
#BCV:Matthew 12:18
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:18>Matthew 12:18</verse></h3>



Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my soul is well pleased: I will put my
spirit upon him, and he shall shew (c) judgment to the Gentiles.

<page=2414>(c) By judgment is meant a godly kingdom, because Christ was to proclaim true religion among the
Gentiles, and to cast out superstition; and wherever this is done, the Lord is said to reign and judge
there, that is to say, to govern and rule matters.
#BCV:Matthew 12:20
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:20>Matthew 12:20</verse></h3>



A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he (d) send forth
judgment unto victory.



(d) He will pronounce sentence and judgment, in spite of the world and Satan, and show himself
conqueror over all his enemies.
#BCV:Matthew 12:22
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:22>Matthew 12:22</verse></h3>




(4) Then was brought unto him one possessed with a devil, blind, and dumb: and he healed him,
insomuch that the blind and dumb both spake and saw.



(4) A truth, be it ever so obvious, is subject to the slander of the wicked: however, it ought to be
resolutely defended.
#BCV:Matthew 12:25
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:25>Matthew 12:25</verse></h3>




(5) And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is
brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand:



(5) The kingdom of Christ and the kingdom of the devil cannot abide together.
#BCV:Matthew 12:32
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:32>Matthew 12:32</verse></h3>



And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: (6) but whosoever
speaketh against the Holy Spirit, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the
[world] to come.



(6) Of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit.
#BCV:Matthew 12:34
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:34>Matthew 12:34</verse></h3>




(7) O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of
the heart the mouth speaketh.



(7) Hypocrites at length betray themselves even by their own mouth.
#BCV:Matthew 12:36
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:36>Matthew 12:36</verse></h3>

<page=2415>But I say unto you, That every (e) idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in
the day of judgment.



(e) Vain and unprofitable trifles, which for the most part, men spend their lives in search of.
#BCV:Matthew 12:38
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:38>Matthew 12:38</verse></h3>




(8) Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign
from thee.



(8) Against perverse desires of miracles.
#BCV:Matthew 12:39
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:39>Matthew 12:39</verse></h3>



But he answered and said unto them, An evil and (f) adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and
there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas:



(f) Bastard, who fell from Abraham's faith or forsook the true worship of God.
#BCV:Matthew 12:41
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:41>Matthew 12:41</verse></h3>




(9) The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it: because
they repented at the preaching of Jonas; and, behold, a greater than Jonas [is] here.



(9) Christ teaches, by the sorrowful example of the Jews, that there are none more miserable than
they who put out the light of the gospel which was kindled in them.
#BCV:Matthew 12:42
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:42>Matthew 12:42</verse></h3>



The queen of the (g) south shall rise up in the judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it:
for she came from the (h) uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon; and, behold,
a greater than Solomon [is] here.



(g) He means the Queen of Sheba: whose country is south in respect to the land of Israel; (<bcv=I Ki 10:1>Kg1 10:1-</bcv>
13).



(h) For Sheba is situated in the farthest coast of Arabia at the mouth of the Arabian Sea.
#BCV:Matthew 12:46
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:46>Matthew 12:46</verse></h3>




(10) While he yet talked to the people, behold, [his] mother and his brethren stood without, desiring
to speak with him.



(10) Christ teaches by his own example that all things ought to be set aside in respect of God's glory.
#BCV:Matthew 12:49
<h3><verse=Matthew 12:49>Matthew 12:49</verse></h3>


<page=2416>(11) And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and said, Behold my mother and my
brethren!



(11) None are more near unto us than they that are of the household of faith.

<h2>Matthew 13</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 13:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 13:2>Matthew 13:2</verse></h3>


<page=2417>(1) And great multitudes were gathered together unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and
the whole multitude stood on the shore.



(1) Christ shows in putting forth this parable of the sower, that the seed of life which is sown in the
world does not do as well in one as in another, and the reason for this is that men for the most part,
either do not receive it, or do not permit it to ripen.
#BCV:Matthew 13:11
<h3><verse=Matthew 13:11>Matthew 13:11</verse></h3>




(2) He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the
kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.



(2) The gift of understanding and faith is given only to the elect, and all the rest are blinded through
the just judgment of God.
#BCV:Matthew 13:16
<h3><verse=Matthew 13:16>Matthew 13:16</verse></h3>




(3) But blessed [are] your eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear.



(3) The condition of the Church under and since Christ, is better than it was in the time of the
fathers under the law.
#BCV:Matthew 13:19
<h3><verse=Matthew 13:19>Matthew 13:19</verse></h3>



When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth [it] not, then cometh the
wicked [one], and catcheth away that which was sown in his (a) heart. This is he which received seed
by the way side.



(a) Though there is mention made of the heart, yet this sowing is referred to as hearing without
understanding. For whether the seed is received in the heart or not, yet he that sows, sows to the
heart.
#BCV:Matthew 13:24
<h3><verse=Matthew 13:24>Matthew 13:24</verse></h3>




(4) Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man
which sowed good seed in his field:

<page=2418>(4) Christ shows in another parable of the evil seed mixed with the good, that the Church will never
be free and rid of offences, both in doctrine and manners, until the day appointed for the restoring
of all things comes, and therefore the faithful have to arm themselves with patience and
steadfastness.
#BCV:Matthew 13:31
<h3><verse=Matthew 13:31>Matthew 13:31</verse></h3>




(5) Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of
mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field:



(5) God begins his kingdom with very small beginnings so that by its growing (even though men
neither hope nor expect it to) his mighty power and working may be displayed all the more.
#BCV:Matthew 13:37
<h3><verse=Matthew 13:37>Matthew 13:37</verse></h3>




(6) He answered and said unto them, He that soweth the good seed is the Son of man;



(6) He expounds the first parable of the good and evil seed.
#BCV:Matthew 13:44
<h3><verse=Matthew 13:44>Matthew 13:44</verse></h3>




(7) Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath
found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.



(7) Few men understand how great the riches of the kingdom of heaven are, and that no man can
be a partaker of them but he that redeems them with the loss of all his goods.
#BCV:Matthew 13:47
<h3><verse=Matthew 13:47>Matthew 13:47</verse></h3>




(8) Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that was cast into the sea, and gathered of every
kind:



(8) There are many in the Church who nevertheless are not of the Church, and therefore at length
will be cast out: but the full and perfect cleansing of them is deferred to the last day.
#BCV:Matthew 13:51
<h3><verse=Matthew 13:51>Matthew 13:51</verse></h3>




(9) Jesus saith unto them, Have ye understood all these things? They say unto him, Yea, Lord.



(9) They ought to be diligent, who have to be wise not only for themselves, but who have to
dispense the wisdom of God to others.
#BCV:Matthew 13:54
<h3><verse=Matthew 13:54>Matthew 13:54</verse></h3>


<page=2419>(10) And when he was come into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, insomuch that
they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this [man] this wisdom, and [these] mighty works?



(10) Men not only sin because of ignorance, but also knowingly and willingly they lay stumbling
blocks in their own ways, that when God calls them, they may not obey, and so most plainly destroy
and cast away themselves.

<h2>Matthew 14</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 14:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 14:1>Matthew 14:1</verse></h3>


<page=2420>(1) At that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus,



(1) Here is in John, an example of an invincible courage, which all faithful ministers of God's word
ought to follow: in Herod, an example of tyrannous vanity, pride, and cruelty, and in short, of a
refined conscience, and of their miserable slavery, who have given themselves over to pleasure: in
Herodias and her daughter, an example of whore-like licentious women, and womanly cruelty.
#BCV:Matthew 14:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 14:2>Matthew 14:2</verse></h3>



And said unto his servants, This is John the Baptist; he is risen from the dead; and therefore mighty



(a) works do shew forth themselves in him.



(a) By works he means that force and power by which works are performed, and not the works
which are often seen before.
#BCV:Matthew 14:6
<h3><verse=Matthew 14:6>Matthew 14:6</verse></h3>



But when Herod's birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased (b)
Herod.



(b) There were three Herods: the first of them was Antipater's son, who is also called Ascalonius, in
whose reign Christ was born, and it was he that caused the children to be slain. The second was
called Antipas, Magnus his son, whose mother's name was Malthaca or Martaca, and he was called
Tetrarch, because he enlarged his dominion, when Archelaus was banished to Vienna in France. The
third was Agrippa, Magnus his nephew by Aristobulus, and it was he that slew James.
#BCV:Matthew 14:14
<h3><verse=Matthew 14:14>Matthew 14:14</verse></h3>




(2) And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them,
and he healed their sick.



(2) Christ feeds a great multitude with five loaves and two little fish, showing by it that they will lack
nothing who lay all things aside and seek the kingdom of heaven.
#BCV:Matthew 14:24
<h3><verse=Matthew 14:24>Matthew 14:24</verse></h3>




(3) But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary.



(3) We must sail even through mighty tempests, and Christ will never forsake us, so that we can go
wherever he has commanded us to go.
#BCV:Matthew 14:25
<h3><verse=Matthew 14:25>Matthew 14:25</verse></h3>

<page=2421>And in the (c) fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea.



(c) By the fourth watch is meant the time nearer to day break: for in ancient times they divided the
night into four watches in which they posted watches.
#BCV:Matthew 14:26
<h3><verse=Matthew 14:26>Matthew 14:26</verse></h3>



And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a (d) spirit; and
they cried out for fear.



(d) A spirit, as it is taken here, is that which a man imagines to himself vainly in his mind, persuading
himself that he sees something when he sees nothing.
#BCV:Matthew 14:28
<h3><verse=Matthew 14:28>Matthew 14:28</verse></h3>




(4) And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water.



(4) By faith we tread under our feet even the tempests themselves, but only by the power of Christ,
which helps that faith, which he by his mercy has given.
#BCV:Matthew 14:34
<h3><verse=Matthew 14:34>Matthew 14:34</verse></h3>



And when they were gone over, they came into the land of (e) Gennesaret.



(e) This Gennesaret was a lake near Capernaum, which is also called the Sea of Galilee or Tiberias;
so the country itself grew to be called Gennesaret.
#BCV:Matthew 14:35
<h3><verse=Matthew 14:35>Matthew 14:35</verse></h3>




(5) And when the men of that place had knowledge of him, they sent out into all that country round
about, and brought unto him all that were diseased;



(5) In that act where Christ heals the sick, we are shown that we must seek remedy for spiritual
diseases at his hands: and that we ourselves are bound to not only run to him, but also to bring
others unto him.

<h2>Matthew 15</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 15:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:1>Matthew 15:1</verse></h3>


<page=2422>(1) Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying,



(1) None commonly are more bold condemners of God, then they whom God has appointed
keepers of his law.
#BCV:Matthew 15:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:2>Matthew 15:2</verse></h3>



Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they (a) wash not their hands when
they eat bread.



(a) Which they received handed down from their ancestors, or their elders allowed, who were the
governors of the Church.
#BCV:Matthew 15:3
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:3>Matthew 15:3</verse></h3>




(2) But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by
your tradition?



(2) Their wicked boldness in corrupting the commandments of God (and that upon the pretence of
godliness) and usurping authority to make laws, is reproved here.
#BCV:Matthew 15:4
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:4>Matthew 15:4</verse></h3>



For God commanded, saying, (b) Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or
mother, let him die the death.



(b) By honour is meant every duty which children owe to their parents.
#BCV:Matthew 15:5
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:5>Matthew 15:5</verse></h3>



But ye say, (c) Whosoever shall say to [his] father or [his] mother, [It is] a gift, by whatsoever thou
mightest be profited by me;



(c) The meaning is this: whatever I bestow upon the temple, is to your profit, for it is as good as if I
gave it to you, for (as the Pharisees of our time say) it will be meritorious for you: for under this
form of religion, they gathered all to themselves, as though he that had given anything to the temple,
had done the duty of a child.
#BCV:Matthew 15:6
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:6>Matthew 15:6</verse></h3>

<page=2423>And honour not his father or his mother, [he shall be free]. Thus have ye made the commandment
of God of none (d) effect by your tradition.



(d) As much as you could, you destroyed the power and authority of the commandment: for
otherwise the commandments of God stand fast in the Church of God, in spite of the world and
Satan.
#BCV:Matthew 15:7
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:7>Matthew 15:7</verse></h3>




(3) [Ye] hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying,



(3) The same men are condemned for hypocrisy and superstition, because they made the kingdom
of God to consist of outward things.
#BCV:Matthew 15:10
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:10>Matthew 15:10</verse></h3>




(4) And he called the multitude, and said unto them, Hear, and understand:



(4) Christ teaches us that the hypocrisy of false teachers who deceive our souls is not to be endured
at all, not even in small matters, and there is no reason why their office or position should blind our
eyes: otherwise we are likely to perish with them.
#BCV:Matthew 15:21
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:21>Matthew 15:21</verse></h3>



Then Jesus went thence, and departed into the (e) coasts of Tyre and Sidon.



(e) Coasts which were next to Tyre and Sidon, that is in that region where Palestine faces toward
Venice, and the sea of Syria.
#BCV:Matthew 15:22
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:22>Matthew 15:22</verse></h3>



And, behold, a woman of (f) Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have
mercy on me, O Lord, [thou] Son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.



(f) Of the people of the Canaanites, who dwelt in Phoenicia.
#BCV:Matthew 15:23
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:23>Matthew 15:23</verse></h3>




(5) But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her
away; for she crieth after us.



(5) In that Christ sometimes shuts his ears, as it were, to the prayers of his saints, he does it for his
glory, and our profit.
#BCV:Matthew 15:24
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:24>Matthew 15:24</verse></h3>

#BCV:mat 15:24
<h3><verse=mat 15:24>mat 15:24</verse></h3>




(g) Of the people of Israel, who were divided into tribes, but all those tribes came from one family.
#BCV:Matthew 15:29
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:29>Matthew 15:29</verse></h3>




(6) And Jesus departed from thence, and came nigh unto the sea of Galilee; and went up into a
mountain, and sat down there.



(6) Christ does not cease to be beneficial even where he is condemned, and in the midst of wolves
he gathers together and cares for his flock.
#BCV:Matthew 15:30
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:30>Matthew 15:30</verse></h3>



And great multitudes came unto him, having with them [those that were] lame, blind, dumb, (h)
maimed, and many others, and cast them down at Jesus' feet; and he healed them:



(h) Whose members were weakened with paralysis, or by nature, for after it is said that he healed
them. Now Christ preferred to heal in this way, that such members as were weak, he restored to
health, and yet he could easily, if he had wanted, have given them hands and feet and other members
which they lacked.
#BCV:Matthew 15:32
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:32>Matthew 15:32</verse></h3>




(7) Then Jesus called his disciples [unto him], and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because
they (i) continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not send them away
fasting, lest they faint in the way.



(7) By doing this miracle again, Christ shows that he who follows Christ will never be in need, not
even in the wilderness.



(i) Go not from my side.
#BCV:Matthew 15:35
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:35>Matthew 15:35</verse></h3>



And he commanded the multitude to (k) sit down on the ground.



(k) Literally, "to lie down backwards", as rowers do in rowing, when they draw their oars to
themselves.
#BCV:Matthew 15:37
<h3><verse=Matthew 15:37>Matthew 15:37</verse></h3>

<page=2425>And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up of the broken [meat] that was left seven (l)
baskets full.



(l) A kind of container made with twigs.

<h2>Matthew 16</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 16:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:1>Matthew 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=2426>The (1) Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and (a) tempting desired him that he would shew
them a sign from heaven.



(1) The wicked who otherwise disagree with one another, agree well together against Christ, but do
what they can, Christ is victorious, and triumphs over them.



(a) To see whether he could do that which they desired, but their purpose was useless for they
thought to find something in him by it, in which case they might have just occasion to reprehend
him: or else distrust and curiosity moved them to do so, for by such means also is God said to be
tempted, that is to say, provoked to anger, as though men would strive with him.
#BCV:Matthew 16:3
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:3>Matthew 16:3</verse></h3>



And in the morning, [It will be] foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O [ye] hypocrites,
ye can discern the (b) face of the sky; but can ye not [discern] the signs of the times?



(b) The outward show and countenance, as it were, of all things, is called in the Hebrew language, a
face.
#BCV:Matthew 16:4
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:4>Matthew 16:4</verse></h3>



A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign;
and there shall no sign be given unto it, but (c) the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and
departed.



(c) The article shows how notable the sign is.
#BCV:Matthew 16:5
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:5>Matthew 16:5</verse></h3>




(2) And when his disciples were come to the other side, they had forgotten to take bread.



(2) False teachers must be taken warning of.
#BCV:Matthew 16:8
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:8>Matthew 16:8</verse></h3>



[Which] when Jesus (d) perceived, he said unto them, O ye of little faith, why reason ye among
yourselves, because ye have brought no bread?



(d) Not by others, but by virtue of his divinity.
#BCV:Matthew 16:9
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:9>Matthew 16:9</verse></h3>

<page=2427>Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the (e) five loaves of the five thousand, and how many
baskets ye took up?



(e) That five thousand men were filled with so many loaves?
#BCV:Matthew 16:11
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:11>Matthew 16:11</verse></h3>



How is it that ye do not (f) understand that I (g) spake [it] not to you concerning bread, that ye
should beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees?



(f) A demand or question joined with wonder.



(g) "Spake" for commanded.
#BCV:Matthew 16:13
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:13>Matthew 16:13</verse></h3>




(3) When Jesus came into the coasts of (h) Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom
do men say that I the Son of man am?



(3) There are many judgments and opinions of Christ, nevertheless he is known by his followers
alone.



(h) There were two Caesareas, the one called Stratonis upon the Mediterranean Sea, which Herod
built extravagantly in the honour of Octavius; Josephus lib. 15. The other was Caesarea Philippi,
which Herod the great the Tetrarch's son by Cleopatra, built in the honour of Tiberius at the foot of
Lebanon; Josephus lib. 15.
#BCV:Matthew 16:14
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:14>Matthew 16:14</verse></h3>



And they said, Some [say that thou art] (i) John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one
of the prophets.



(i) As Herod thought.
#BCV:Matthew 16:17
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:17>Matthew 16:17</verse></h3>




(4) And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for (k) flesh and blood
hath not revealed [it] unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.



(4) Faith is of grace, not of nature.

<page=2428>(k) By this kind of speech is meant man's natural procreation upon the earth, the one who was made,
not being destroyed, but deformed through sin: So then this is the meaning: this was not revealed to
you by any understanding of man, but God showed it to you from heaven.
#BCV:Matthew 16:18
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:18>Matthew 16:18</verse></h3>




(5) And I say also unto thee, That thou art (l) Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and
the (m) gates of hell shall not prevail against it.



(5) That is true faith, which confesses Christ, the virtue of which is invincible.



(l) Christ spoke in the Syrian tongue, and therefore did not use this discourse to distinguish between
Petros, which signifies Peter, and Petra, which signifies a rock, but in both places used the word
Cephas: but his meaning is what is written in Greek, in which the different word endings distinguish
between Peter, who is a piece of the building, and Christ the Petra, that is, the rock and foundation:
or else he named him Peter because of the confession of his faith, which is the Church's as well as
his, as the old fathers witness, for so says Theophylact. That confession which you have made, shall
be the foundation of the believers.



(m) The enemies of the Church are compared to a strong kingdom, and therefore by "gates" are
meant cities which are made strong with wise preparation and fortifications, and this is the meaning:
whatever Satan can do by cunning or strength. So does Paul, calling them strongholds; (<bcv=2Co 10:4>Co2 10:4</bcv>).

#BCV:Matthew 16:19
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:19>Matthew 16:19</verse></h3>




(6) And I will give unto thee the (n) keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt (o)
bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in
heaven.



(6) The authority of the Church is from God.



(n) A metaphor taken from stewards who carry the keys: and here is set forth the power of the
ministers of the word, as (<bcv=Isa 22:22>Isa 22:22</bcv>) says, and that power is common to all ministers, as (<bcv=Mat 18:18>Mat 18:18</bcv>)
says, and therefore the ministry of the gospel may rightly be called the key of the kingdom of
heaven.



(o) They are bound whose sins are retained; heaven is shut against them, because they do not receive
Christ by faith: on the other hand, how happy are they to whom heaven is open, who embrace
Christ and are delivered by him, and become fellow heirs with him!
#BCV:Matthew 16:20
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:20>Matthew 16:20</verse></h3>




(7) Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.



(7) Men must first learn, and then teach.
#BCV:Matthew 16:21
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:21>Matthew 16:21</verse></h3>


<page=2429>(8) From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem,
and suffer many things of the (p) elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised
again the third day.



(8) The minds of men are at this time to be prepared and made ready against the stumbling block of
persecution.



(p) It was a name of dignity and not of age: and it is used for those who were the judges, whom the
Hebrews call the Sanhedrin.
#BCV:Matthew 16:22
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:22>Matthew 16:22</verse></h3>



Then Peter (q) took him, and began to rebuke him, saying, Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not
be unto thee.



(q) Took him by the hand and led him aside, as they used to do, which meant to talk familiarly with
one.
#BCV:Matthew 16:23
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:23>Matthew 16:23</verse></h3>




(9) But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind me, (r) Satan: thou art an offence unto me:
for thou (s) savourest not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.



(9) Against a preposterous zeal.



(r) The Hebrews call him Satan, that is to say an adversary, whom the Greeks call diabolos, that is to
say, slanderer, or tempter: but it is spoken of them, that either of malice, as Judas, (<bcv=John 6:70>Joh 6:70</bcv>), or of
lightness and pride resist the will of God.



(s) By this word we are taught that Peter sinned through a false persuasion of himself.
#BCV:Matthew 16:24
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:24>Matthew 16:24</verse></h3>




(10) Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and
take up his cross, and follow me.



(10) No men do more harm to themselves, than they that love themselves more than God.
#BCV:Matthew 16:25
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:25>Matthew 16:25</verse></h3>



For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: and whosoever will lose his life for my sake shall (t) find
it.

<page=2430>(t) Shall gain himself: And this is his meaning, they that deny Christ to save themselves, not only not
gain that which they look for, but also lose the thing they would have kept, that is, themselves, which
is the greatest loss of all: but as for them that doubt not to die for Christ, it goes well with them
otherwise.
#BCV:Matthew 16:27
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:27>Matthew 16:27</verse></h3>



For the Son of man shall come (u) in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall
reward every man according to his works.



(u) Like a King, as (<bcv=Mat 6:29>Mat 6:29</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 16:28
<h3><verse=Matthew 16:28>Matthew 16:28</verse></h3>



Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here, which shall not taste of death, till they see the
Son of man coming in his (x) kingdom.



(x) By his kingdom is understood the glory of his ascension, and what follows after that, (<bcv=Eph 4:10>Eph 4:10</bcv>),
or the preaching of the gospel, (<bcv=Mar 9:1>Mar 9:1</bcv>).

<h2>Matthew 17</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 17:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 17:1>Matthew 17:1</verse></h3>

<page=2431>And (1) (a) after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his brother, and bringeth them up into
an high mountain apart,



(1) Christ in his present company is humble in the gospel, but all the while he is Lord both of
heaven and earth.



(a) Luke counts eight days, containing in that number the first and last, and Matthew speaks but of
the days between them.
#BCV:Matthew 17:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 17:2>Matthew 17:2</verse></h3>



And was (b) transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his raiment was white
as the light.



(b) Changed into another colour.
#BCV:Matthew 17:5
<h3><verse=Matthew 17:5>Matthew 17:5</verse></h3>



While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud,
which said, This is (c) my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.



(c) The word "my" distinguishes Christ from other children. For he is God's natural son, we by
adoption; therefore he is called the first begotten among the brethren, because although he is by
right the only son, yet he is chief among many, in that he is the source and head of the adoption.
#BCV:Matthew 17:6
<h3><verse=Matthew 17:6>Matthew 17:6</verse></h3>



And when the disciples heard [it], they (d) fell on their face, and were sore afraid.



(d) Fell down flat on their faces and worshipped him, as in (<bcv=Mat 2:11>Mat 2:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 17:9
<h3><verse=Matthew 17:9>Matthew 17:9</verse></h3>



And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, saying, Tell the (e) vision to no
man, until the Son of man be risen again from the dead.



(e) Which they saw, otherwise the word used in this place is usually used in referring to that which is
seen in a dream.
#BCV:Matthew 17:14
<h3><verse=Matthew 17:14>Matthew 17:14</verse></h3>


<page=2432>(2) And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a [certain] man, (f) kneeling down
to him, and saying,



(2) Men are unworthy of Christ's goodness, yet nonetheless he pays attention to them.



(f) As men used to do when making supplication.
#BCV:Matthew 17:15
<h3><verse=Matthew 17:15>Matthew 17:15</verse></h3>



Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is (g) lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the
fire, and oft into the water.



(g) They that at certain times of the moon are troubled with the falling sickness, or any other kind
of disease: but in this case, we must so understand it, that besides the natural disease he had a
demonic derangement.
#BCV:Matthew 17:19
<h3><verse=Matthew 17:19>Matthew 17:19</verse></h3>




(3) Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out?



(3) Incredulity and distrust hinder and break the direction of God's benefits.
#BCV:Matthew 17:21
<h3><verse=Matthew 17:21>Matthew 17:21</verse></h3>




(4) Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by (h) prayer and fasting.



(4) The remedy against distrust.



(h) To help us to understand the watchfulness and diligence of earnest prayer, which cannot be
without sobriety.
#BCV:Matthew 17:22
<h3><verse=Matthew 17:22>Matthew 17:22</verse></h3>




(5) And while they abode in Galilee, Jesus said unto them, The Son of man shall be betrayed into
the hands of men:



(5) Our minds must be prepared more and more for the offence of the cross.
#BCV:Matthew 17:24
<h3><verse=Matthew 17:24>Matthew 17:24</verse></h3>




(6) And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute [money] came to Peter, and
said, Doth (i) not your master (k) pay (l) tribute?



(6) In that Christ willingly obeys Caesar's edicts, he shows that civil policy is not taken away by the
Gospel.

<page=2433>(i) He does not deny, but he asks.



(k) Should he not pay?



(l) They that were from twenty years of age to fifty, paid half a shekel to the Sanctuary, (<bcv=Exo 30:13>Exo 30:13</bcv>).
This was an Attic didrachma which the Roman exacted after they had subdued Judea.
#BCV:Matthew 17:25
<h3><verse=Matthew 17:25>Matthew 17:25</verse></h3>



He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest
thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own (m) children,
or of strangers?



(m) By children we must not understand subjects who pay tribute, but natural children.
#BCV:Matthew 17:27
<h3><verse=Matthew 17:27>Matthew 17:27</verse></h3>



Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the
fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a (n) piece of
money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.



(n) The word used here is "stater", which is in value four didrachmas; every drachma is about five
pence.

<h2>Matthew 18</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 18:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 18:2>Matthew 18:2</verse></h3>


<page=2434>(1) And Jesus called a (a) little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,



(1) Humbleness of mind is the right way to preeminence.



(a) A child in years.
#BCV:Matthew 18:3
<h3><verse=Matthew 18:3>Matthew 18:3</verse></h3>



And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be (b) converted, and become as little children, ye shall
not enter into the kingdom of heaven.



(b) An idiom taken from the Hebrews which is equivalent to "repent".
#BCV:Matthew 18:6
<h3><verse=Matthew 18:6>Matthew 18:6</verse></h3>




(2) But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a
millstone were hanged about his neck, and [that] he were drowned in the depth of the sea.



(2) We ought to have great respect for our brethren no matter how base they may be: and he that
does otherwise shall be sharply punished.
#BCV:Matthew 18:7
<h3><verse=Matthew 18:7>Matthew 18:7</verse></h3>




(3) Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that (c) offences come; but woe to
that man by whom the offence cometh!



(3) A good man cannot help but experience offences, yet he must by no means offer offence.



(c) Obstructions and hindrances which stop the course of good works. The Greek word conveys the
sense of things which we stumble at.

#BCV:Matthew 18:8
<h3><verse=Matthew 18:8>Matthew 18:8</verse></h3>



Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot (d) offend thee, cut them off, and cast [them] from thee: it is
better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast
into everlasting fire.



(d) See<bcv=Mat 5:29> Mat 5:29</bcv>
#BCV:Matthew 18:10
<h3><verse=Matthew 18:10>Matthew 18:10</verse></h3>

#BCV:mat 18:10
<h3><verse=mat 18:10>mat 18:10</verse></h3>



angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.



(4) The weaker that a man is, the greater care we ought to have for his salvation, as God teaches us
by his own example.
#BCV:Matthew 18:15
<h3><verse=Matthew 18:15>Matthew 18:15</verse></h3>




(5) Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against (e) thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and
him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.



(5) We must strive for agreement, and not to revenge injuries.



(e) If his offence is such that only you know your brother's offence.
#BCV:Matthew 18:16
<h3><verse=Matthew 18:16>Matthew 18:16</verse></h3>



But if he will not hear [thee, then] take with thee one or two more, that in the (f) mouth of two or
three witnesses every word may be (g) established.



(f) That is, by the word and witness; the mouth is sometimes taken for the word of speech, (Num
3:16), and also for a still witness, namely, when the matter speaks for itself, as below in (<bcv=Mat 21:16>Mat 21:16</bcv>).



(g) Sure and certain.
#BCV:Matthew 18:17
<h3><verse=Matthew 18:17>Matthew 18:17</verse></h3>




(6) And if he shall (h) neglect to hear them, tell [it] unto the (i) church: but if he neglect to hear the
church, let him be unto thee as (k) an heathen man and a publican.



(6) He that condemns the judgment of the Church, condemns God.



(h) Literally, "does not condescend to hear", or "make as though he did not hear".



(i) He speaks not of just any policy, but of an ecclesiastical assembly, for he speaks afterward of the
power of loosing and binding, which belonged to the Church, and he has regard for the order used
in those days, at which time the elders had the judgment of Church matters in their hands, (<bcv=Joh 9:22>Joh 9:22</bcv>;
<bcv=John 12:42> Joh 12:42</bcv>;<bcv=John 16:2> Joh 16:2</bcv>), and used casting out of the synagogue for a punishment, as we do now by
excommunication.



(k) Profane, and void of religion: such men, the Jews called Gentiles: whose company they shunned,
as they did the publicans.
#BCV:Matthew 18:19
<h3><verse=Matthew 18:19>Matthew 18:19</verse></h3>

<page=2436>Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall (l) agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall
ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.



(l) This word, which is normally used of the body, is here used of the mind, for it belongs properly
to poetry.
#BCV:Matthew 18:21
<h3><verse=Matthew 18:21>Matthew 18:21</verse></h3>




(7) Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive
him? till seven times?



(7) They will find God severe and not too pleased, who do not forgive their brethren even if they
have been purposely and grievously injured by them.
#BCV:Matthew 18:24
<h3><verse=Matthew 18:24>Matthew 18:24</verse></h3>



And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him (m) ten thousand
talents.



(m) Here is set down a very great sum of six thousand crowns, that the difference may be the
greater, for there is no proportion between them.
#BCV:Matthew 18:26
<h3><verse=Matthew 18:26>Matthew 18:26</verse></h3>



The servant therefore fell down, and (n) worshipped him, saying, Lord, (o) have patience with me,
and I will pay thee all.



(n) This was a polite reverence which was very common in the East.



(o) Yield not too much to your anger against me: so is God called in the Scripture, slow to anger,
that is to say, gentle, and one that refrains his fierce wrath, (<bcv=Psa 86:5>Psa 86:5</bcv>); patient and of great mercy.

<h2>Matthew 19</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 19:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:1>Matthew 19:1</verse></h3>

<page=2437>And it came to pass, [that] when Jesus had finished these sayings, he (a) departed from Galilee, and
came into the coasts of Judaea beyond Jordan;



(a) Passed over the water out of Galilee into the borders of Judea.
#BCV:Matthew 19:3
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:3>Matthew 19:3</verse></h3>




(1) The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to



(b) put away his wife for every cause?



(1) The band of marriage ought not to be broken, unless it is because of fornication.



(b) To send her a bill of divorce; see (<bcv=Mat 1:19>Mat 1:19</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 19:5
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:5>Matthew 19:5</verse></h3>



And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall (c) cleave to his wife: and
they (d) twain shall be one flesh?



(c) The Greek word conveys "to be glued unto", by which it signifies the union by marriage, which is
between man and wife, as though they were glued together.



(d) They who were two become one as it were: and this word "flesh" is figuratively taken for the
whole man, or the body, after the manner of the Hebrews.
#BCV:Matthew 19:6
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:6>Matthew 19:6</verse></h3>



Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath (e) joined together, let
not man put asunder.



(e) Has made them yokefellows, as the marriage itself is called a yoke, by a borrowed kind of speech.
#BCV:Matthew 19:7
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:7>Matthew 19:7</verse></h3>




(2) They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put
her away?



(2) Because political laws are adjusted to allow some things, it does not follow that God therefore
approves of them.
#BCV:Matthew 19:8
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:8>Matthew 19:8</verse></h3>

#BCV:mat 19:8
<h3><verse=mat 19:8>mat 19:8</verse></h3>



your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.



(f) Being brought about because of the hardness of your hearts.



(g) By a political law, not by the moral law: for the moral law is a perpetual law of God's justice; the
other bows and bends as the carpenter's bevel.
#BCV:Matthew 19:9
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:9>Matthew 19:9</verse></h3>



And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except [it be] (h) for fornication, and shall
marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit
adultery.



(h) Therefore in these days the laws that were made against adulterers were not regarded: for they
would have no need of divorce, if the marriage had been severed by punishment of death.
#BCV:Matthew 19:10
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:10>Matthew 19:10</verse></h3>



His disciples say unto him, If the (i) case of the man be so with [his] wife, it is not good to marry.



(i) If the matter stands in this way between man and wife, or in marriage.
#BCV:Matthew 19:11
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:11>Matthew 19:11</verse></h3>




(3) But he said unto them, All [men] cannot (k) receive this saying, save [they] to whom it is given.



(3) The gift of celibacy is peculiar, and therefore no man can set a law to himself of perpetual
celibacy.



(k) Receive and admit, as by translation we say, that a straight and narrow place is not able to receive
many things.
#BCV:Matthew 19:12
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:12>Matthew 19:12</verse></h3>



For there are some (l) eunuchs, which were so born from [their] mother's womb: and there are some
eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have (m) made themselves
eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive [it], let him receive [it].



(l) A man can become a eunuch in one of two ways: the first is by castration or emasculation, and
the other by natural causes, such as a rupture.



(m) Who abstain from marriage, and live as celibates through the gift of God.
#BCV:Matthew 19:13
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:13>Matthew 19:13</verse></h3>

#BCV:mat 19:13
<h3><verse=mat 19:13>mat 19:13</verse></h3>



pray: and the disciples rebuked them.



(4) The elect infants and little children are contained in the free covenant of God. (Ed.)
#BCV:Matthew 19:16
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:16>Matthew 19:16</verse></h3>




(5) And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may
have eternal life?



(5) Those who seek to be saved by the law do not even know the law themselves.
#BCV:Matthew 19:21
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:21>Matthew 19:21</verse></h3>



Jesus said unto him, If (n) thou wilt be perfect, go [and] sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and
thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come [and] follow me.



(n) The young man did not answer truly in saying that he had kept all the commandments: and
therefore Christ sets forth an example of true charity before him, to show the disease that lay
lurking in his mind.
#BCV:Matthew 19:23
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:23>Matthew 19:23</verse></h3>




(6) Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into
the kingdom of heaven.



(6) Rich men have need of a singular gift of God to escape out of the snares of Satan.
#BCV:Matthew 19:24
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:24>Matthew 19:24</verse></h3>



And again I say unto you, It is (o) easier for a (p) camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a
rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.



(o) Literally, "it is of less labour".



(p) Theophylact notes, that by this word is meant a cable rope, but Caninius alleges out of the
Talmuds that it is a proverb, and the word "Camel" signifies the beast itself.
#BCV:Matthew 19:28
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:28>Matthew 19:28</verse></h3>




(7) And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the (q)
regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve
thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

<page=2440>(7) It is not lost, that is neglected for God's sake.



(q) The regeneration is understood to mean that day when the elect will begin to live a new life, that
is to say, when they will enjoy the heavenly inheritance, both in body and soul.
#BCV:Matthew 19:30
<h3><verse=Matthew 19:30>Matthew 19:30</verse></h3>




(8) But many [that are] first shall be last; and the last [shall be] first.



(8) To have begun well, and not to continue unto the end, is not only unprofitable, but also hurts
very much.

<h2>Matthew 20</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 20:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 20:1>Matthew 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=2441>For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man [that is] an (1) householder, which went out early in
the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard.



(1) God is bound to no man, and therefore he calls whoever and whenever he desires. This only
every man ought to take heed of, and upon this bestow his whole endeavour, that he go forward and
come to the mark without stopping at all or staggering, and to not curiously examine the doings of
other men, or the judgments of God.
#BCV:Matthew 20:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 20:2>Matthew 20:2</verse></h3>



And when he had (a) agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard.



(a) Literally, "fell in time": it is a kind of speech taken from poetry.
#BCV:Matthew 20:6
<h3><verse=Matthew 20:6>Matthew 20:6</verse></h3>



And about the (b) eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them,
Why stand ye here all the day idle?



(b) The last hour: for the day was twelve hours long, and the first hour began at sunrise.
#BCV:Matthew 20:15
<h3><verse=Matthew 20:15>Matthew 20:15</verse></h3>



Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye (c) evil, because I am good?



(c) Naught, that is to say, do you envy at my goodness towards them? For by an "evil eye" the
Hebrews mean "envy", because such dispositions appear chiefly in the eyes, as above in (<bcv=Mat 6:23>Mat 6:23</bcv>). It
is set in opposition to the word "single", and it is taken there for corrupt: for whereas he said before
in verse 22, "If thine eye be single", he adds in verse 23, "but if thine eye by wicked", or "corrupt",
the word being the same in that place as it is here. (<bcv=Mat 6:22-23>Mat 6:22-23</bcv>)
#BCV:Matthew 20:17
<h3><verse=Matthew 20:17>Matthew 20:17</verse></h3>




(2) And Jesus going up to Jerusalem took the twelve disciples apart in the way, and said unto them,



(2) Christ goes to the cross necessarily, and yet willingly.
#BCV:Matthew 20:18
<h3><verse=Matthew 20:18>Matthew 20:18</verse></h3>


<page=2442>(3) Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be betrayed unto the chief priests and
unto the scribes, and they shall condemn him to death,



(3) They that should be persecuting him the least, are the greatest persecutors of Christ.
#BCV:Matthew 20:19
<h3><verse=Matthew 20:19>Matthew 20:19</verse></h3>




(4) And shall deliver him to the Gentiles to mock, and to scourge, and to crucify [him]: and the third
day he shall rise again.



(4) The shame of the cross is the sure way to the glory of everlasting life.
#BCV:Matthew 20:20
<h3><verse=Matthew 20:20>Matthew 20:20</verse></h3>




(5) Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons, worshipping [him], and
desiring a certain thing of him.



(5) The manner of the heavenly kingdom is quite contrary to the earthly kingdom.
#BCV:Matthew 20:22
<h3><verse=Matthew 20:22>Matthew 20:22</verse></h3>



But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to (d) drink of the cup that I
shall drink of, and to be baptized with the (e) baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him,
We are able.



(d) "Taking the cup" is figurative speech for that which is contained in the cup. And again, the
Hebrews understand by the word "cup", sometimes the manner of punishment which is rendered to
sin, as (<bcv=Psa 11:6>Psa 11:6</bcv>), or the joy that is given to the faithful, as (<bcv=Psa 23:5>Psa 23:5</bcv>), and sometimes a lot or
condition, as (<bcv=Psa 16:5>Psa 16:5</bcv>).



(e) This is in reference to afflictions, as David commonly uses.
#BCV:Matthew 20:23
<h3><verse=Matthew 20:23>Matthew 20:23</verse></h3>



And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I
am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is (f) not mine to give, but [it shall be
given to them] for whom it is prepared of my Father.



(f) The almightiness of Christ's divinity is not shut out by this, but it shows the debasing of himself
by taking man's nature upon him.
#BCV:Matthew 20:25
<h3><verse=Matthew 20:25>Matthew 20:25</verse></h3>

<page=2443>But Jesus called them [unto him], and said, Ye know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise (g)
dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them.



(g) Somewhat sharply and roughly.
#BCV:Matthew 20:29
<h3><verse=Matthew 20:29>Matthew 20:29</verse></h3>




(6) And as they departed from Jericho, a great multitude followed him.



(6) Christ by healing these blind men with only one touch, shows that he is the only light of the
world.
#BCV:Matthew 20:32
<h3><verse=Matthew 20:32>Matthew 20:32</verse></h3>



And Jesus stood still, and (h) called them, and said, What will ye that I shall do unto you?



(h) Himself, not by the means of other men.

<h2>Matthew 21</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 21:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:1>Matthew 21:1</verse></h3>

<page=2444>And (1) when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of
Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples,



(1) Christ by his humility, triumphing over the pride of this world, ascends to true glory by the
shame of the cross.
#BCV:Matthew 21:3
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:3>Matthew 21:3</verse></h3>



And if any [man] say ought unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of them; and straightway (a)
he will send them.



(a) He that will say anything to you will let them go, that is, the ass and the colt.
#BCV:Matthew 21:5
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:5>Matthew 21:5</verse></h3>



Tell ye the (b) daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass,
and a colt the foal of an ass.



(b) The city of Sion. This is a Hebrew idiom, common in the Lamentations of Jeremiah.
#BCV:Matthew 21:7
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:7>Matthew 21:7</verse></h3>



And brought the ass, and the colt, and put on them their (c) clothes, and they set [him] (d) thereon.



(c) Their uppermost garment.



(d) Upon their garments, not upon the ass and the colt.
#BCV:Matthew 21:9
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:9>Matthew 21:9</verse></h3>



And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, (e) Hosanna to the Son of
David: (f) Blessed [is] he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest.



(e) This was an ancient kind of cry, which they voiced in the feast of Tabernacles, when they carried
boughs according as God commanded; (<bcv=Lev 23:40>Lev 23:40</bcv>). And the word is corruptly made of two, for we
should say, "Hoshiang-na", which is as much as to say, "Save I pray thee".



(f) Well is it to him that comes in the Name of the Lord, that is to say, whom the Lord has given us
for our King.
#BCV:Matthew 21:10
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:10>Matthew 21:10</verse></h3>

#BCV:mat 21:10
<h3><verse=mat 21:10>mat 21:10</verse></h3>




(g) That is, all the men of Jerusalem were moved.
#BCV:Matthew 21:15
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:15>Matthew 21:15</verse></h3>




(2) And when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children
crying in the temple, and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David; they were sore displeased,



(2) Those that should be masters of godliness are the ones that envy most the glory of Christ: but in
vain.
#BCV:Matthew 21:16
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:16>Matthew 21:16</verse></h3>



And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read,
Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast (h) perfected praise?



(h) You have made most perfect. We read in David, "Thou hast established" or "grounded", and if
the matter is considered well, the evangelist says here the same thing, for that which is most perfect
is stable and sure.
#BCV:Matthew 21:17
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:17>Matthew 21:17</verse></h3>




(3) And he left them, and went out of the city into Bethany; and he lodged there.



(3) Christ does in this way forsake the wicked, for he has a consideration and regard for his Church.
#BCV:Matthew 21:18
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:18>Matthew 21:18</verse></h3>




(4) Now in the morning as he returned into the city, he hungered.



(4) Hypocrites will at length have their masks discovered, and any false faces taken away.
#BCV:Matthew 21:21
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:21>Matthew 21:21</verse></h3>




(5) Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and (i) doubt not, ye
shall not only do this [which is done] to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be
thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done.



(5) How great the force of faith is.



(i) The Greek word signifies a fixing or wavering of mind, so that we cannot tell which way to take.
#BCV:Matthew 21:23
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:23>Matthew 21:23</verse></h3>

#BCV:mat 21:23
<h3><verse=mat 21:23>mat 21:23</verse></h3>



him as he was teaching, and said, By what (k) authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee
this authority?



(6) Against those who neglect the doctrine and bind the calling and vocation to an ordinary
succession, going about by that false pretext, to stop Christ's mouth.



(k) Or by what power.
#BCV:Matthew 21:24
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:24>Matthew 21:24</verse></h3>



And Jesus answered and said unto them, I also will ask you (l) one thing, which if ye tell me, I in like
wise will tell you by what authority I do these things.



(l) One thing, that is to say, I will ask you one thing first before I answer your questions.
#BCV:Matthew 21:25
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:25>Matthew 21:25</verse></h3>



The (m) baptism of John, whence was it? from (n) heaven, or of men? And they (o) reasoned with
themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven; he will say unto us, Why did ye not then believe
him?



(m) The preaching of John is called by the figure "baptism" because he preached the baptism of
repentance, etc.; (<bcv=Mar 1:4>Mar 1:4</bcv>;<bcv=Acts 19:3> Act 19:3</bcv>).



(n) From God, and so it is plainly seen how these are set one against another.



(o) Beat their heads about it, and mused, or laid their heads together.
#BCV:Matthew 21:31
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:31>Matthew 21:31</verse></h3>



Whether of them twain did the will of [his] father? They say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto
them, Verily I say unto you, That the publicans and the harlots (p) go into the kingdom of God
before you.



(p) They hurry to the kingdom of God and you go slowly, so that you should at least have followed
their example. Mark then that this word, "go into", is improperly taken in this place because none of
them followed Christ.
#BCV:Matthew 21:32
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:32>Matthew 21:32</verse></h3>



For John came unto you in the (q) way of righteousness, and ye believed him not: but the publicans
and the harlots believed him: and ye, when ye had seen [it], repented not afterward, that ye might
believe him.

<page=2447>(q) Living uprightly, being of good and honest behaviour; For the Hebrews use this word "way" for
life and manners.
#BCV:Matthew 21:33
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:33>Matthew 21:33</verse></h3>




(8) Hear another parable: There was a certain householder, which planted a vineyard, and hedged it
round about, and digged a winepress in it, and built a (r) tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and
went into a far country:



(8) Those men are often the cruellest enemies of the Church, to whose faithfulness it is committed:
But the vocation of God is neither tied to time, place, nor person.



(r) Made the place strong: for a tower is the strongest place of a wall.
#BCV:Matthew 21:38
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:38>Matthew 21:38</verse></h3>



But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, This is the heir; come, let us
kill him, and let us (s) seize on his inheritance.



(s) Literally, "let us hold it fast".
#BCV:Matthew 21:41
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:41>Matthew 21:41</verse></h3>



They say unto him, He will (t) miserably destroy those wicked men, and will let out [his] vineyard
unto other husbandmen, which shall render him the fruits in their seasons.



(t) A kind of proverb, showing what punishment the wicked are worthy of.
#BCV:Matthew 21:42
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:42>Matthew 21:42</verse></h3>



Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scriptures, The stone which the (u) builders rejected,
the same is (x) become the (y) head of the corner: (z) this is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in
our eyes?



(u) Master builders, who are chief builders of the house, that is of the Church.



(x) Began to be.



(y) The chiefest stone in the corner is called the head of the corner: which bears up the couplings or
joints of the whole building.



(z) That matter (in that the stone which was cast away is made the head) is the Lord's doing which
we behold and greatly marvel at.
#BCV:Matthew 21:43
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:43>Matthew 21:43</verse></h3>

<page=2448>Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and given to a nation
bringing forth the (a) fruits thereof.



(a) They bring forth the fruits of the kingdom of God, who bring forth the fruit of the Spirit, and
not of the flesh, (<bcv=Gal 5:16-26>Gal 5:16-26</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 21:44
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:44>Matthew 21:44</verse></h3>



And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will (b)
grind him to powder.



(b) As chaff used to be scattered with the wind, for he uses a word which properly signifies
separating the chaff from the corn with winnowing, and to scatter it abroad.
#BCV:Matthew 21:46
<h3><verse=Matthew 21:46>Matthew 21:46</verse></h3>




(9) But when they sought to lay hands on him, they feared the multitude, because they took him for
a prophet.



(9) The wicked can do nothing but what God wills.

<h2>Matthew 22</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 22:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:1>Matthew 22:1</verse></h3>

<page=2449>And (1) Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables, and said,



(1) Not all of the whole company of those that are called by the voice of the gospel are the true
Church before God: for the most part of them would rather follow the conveniences of this life:
and some persecute very cruelly those that call them: but they are the true Church who obey when
they are called, such as for the most part are those whom the world despises.
#BCV:Matthew 22:4
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:4>Matthew 22:4</verse></h3>



Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my
dinner: my oxen and [my] fatlings [are] (a) killed, and all things [are] ready: come unto the marriage.



(a) The word used here is commonly used in sacrifices, and is by translation used for other feasts
also: For feasts and banquets usually began with sacrifices.
#BCV:Matthew 22:7
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:7>Matthew 22:7</verse></h3>




(2) But when the king heard [thereof], he was wroth: and he sent forth his armies, and destroyed
those murderers, and burned up their city.



(2) A dreadful destruction of those that condemn Christ.
#BCV:Matthew 22:8
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:8>Matthew 22:8</verse></h3>



Then saith he to his servants, The (b) wedding is ready, but they which were bidden were not worthy.



(b) The marriage feast.
#BCV:Matthew 22:9
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:9>Matthew 22:9</verse></h3>




(3) Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye shall find, bid to the marriage.



(3) God first calls us when we think nothing of it.
#BCV:Matthew 22:10
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:10>Matthew 22:10</verse></h3>



So those servants went out into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they found, both



(c) bad and good: and the wedding was furnished with guests.



(c) The general calling offers the gospel to all men: but those who enter in have their life examined.
#BCV:Matthew 22:11
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:11>Matthew 22:11</verse></h3>


<page=2450>(4) And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding
garment:



(4) In the small number which come at the calling, there are some castaways who do not confirm
their faith with newness of life.
#BCV:Matthew 22:12
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:12>Matthew 22:12</verse></h3>



And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he
was (d) speechless.



(d) Literally, "haltered", that is to say, he held his peace, as though he had a bridle or a halter around
his neck.
#BCV:Matthew 22:13
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:13>Matthew 22:13</verse></h3>



Then said the king to the (e) servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast [him]
into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.



(e) To those that served the guests.
#BCV:Matthew 22:15
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:15>Matthew 22:15</verse></h3>




(f) Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how they might entangle him in [his] talk.



(f) Snare him in his words or talk. The Greek word is derived from snares which hunters lay.
#BCV:Matthew 22:16
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:16>Matthew 22:16</verse></h3>



And they sent out unto him their disciples with the (g) Herodians, saying, Master, we know that thou
art true, and teachest the way of God (h) in truth, neither carest thou for any [man]: for thou
regardest not the (i) person of men.



(g) Those who with Herod made a new religion, composed of both heathen and Jewish religion.



(h) Truly and sincerely.



(i) You are not moved with any appearance and outward show.
#BCV:Matthew 22:17
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:17>Matthew 22:17</verse></h3>




(5) Tell us therefore, What thinkest thou? Is it lawful to give (k) tribute unto Caesar, or not?

<page=2451>(5) The Christians must obey their magistrates, even though they are wicked and extortioners, but
only in as much as is in agreement with the commandments of God, and only in as much as his
honour is not diminished.



(k) The word that is used here signifies a valuing and rating of men's substance, according to the
proportion of which they payed tribute in those provinces which were subject to tribute, and it is
here taken for the tribute itself.
#BCV:Matthew 22:19
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:19>Matthew 22:19</verse></h3>



Shew me the tribute money. And they brought unto him a (l) penny.



(l) Before (<bcv=Mat 17:24>Mat 17:24</bcv>) there is mention made of a didrachma, and here of a penny, whereas a
didrachma is more by the seventh part then a penny: so that there seems to be an inconsistency in
these two places: but they may easily be reconciled in this way: The penny was paid to the Romans
for tribute, according to the proportion they were rated at, and the drachma was payed by everyone
to the Temple, which also the Romans took to themselves when they had subdued India.
#BCV:Matthew 22:23
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:23>Matthew 22:23</verse></h3>




(6) The same day came to him the Sadducees, which say that there is no resurrection, and asked him,



(6) Christ affirms the resurrection of the flesh, as opposed to the Sadducees.
#BCV:Matthew 22:24
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:24>Matthew 22:24</verse></h3>



Saying, Master, Moses said, If a man die, having no (m) children, his brother shall marry his wife,
and raise up seed unto his brother.



(m) Daughters are also included by this word "children", but even though they were part of his
family and bore his name, the man who had only daughters was in the same position as the man
who had no children at all; this is because daughters were not at this time able to carry on the family
name. Therefore, by "children" here, we should understand it to be referring to "sons".
#BCV:Matthew 22:30
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:30>Matthew 22:30</verse></h3>



For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the (n) angels of
God in heaven.



(n) He does not say that they will be without bodies, for then they would not be men any more; but,
they will be as angels, for they will neither marry nor be married.
#BCV:Matthew 22:34
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:34>Matthew 22:34</verse></h3>


<page=2452>(7) But when the Pharisees had heard that he had put the Sadducees to silence, they were gathered
together.



(7) The gospel does not abolish the precepts of the law, but rather it confirms them.
#BCV:Matthew 22:35
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:35>Matthew 22:35</verse></h3>



Then (o) one of them, [which was] a lawyer, asked [him a question], tempting him, and saying,



(o) A scribe, so it says in (<bcv=Mar 12:28>Mar 12:28</bcv>). To understand what a scribe is, See<bcv=Mat 2:4> Mat 2:4</bcv>
#BCV:Matthew 22:37
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:37>Matthew 22:37</verse></h3>



Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy (p) soul,
and with all thy mind.



(p) The Hebrew text in (<bcv=Deu 6:5>Deu 6:5</bcv>) reads, "with thine heart, soul, and strength"; and in (<bcv=Mar 12:30>Mar 12:30</bcv>) and



(<bcv=Luk 10:27>Luk 10:27</bcv>) we read, "with soul, heart, strength and thought."
#BCV:Matthew 22:39
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:39>Matthew 22:39</verse></h3>



And the second [is] like unto it, Thou shalt love thy (q) neighbour as thyself.



(q) Another man.
#BCV:Matthew 22:41
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:41>Matthew 22:41</verse></h3>




(8) While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them,



(8) Christ manifestly proves that he is David's son, according to the flesh, but otherwise David's
Lord, and very God.
#BCV:Matthew 22:42
<h3><verse=Matthew 22:42>Matthew 22:42</verse></h3>



Saying, What think ye of Christ? (r) whose son is he? They say unto him, [The Son] of David.



(r) Of whose stock or family: for the Hebrews call a man's posterity "sons".

<h2>Matthew 23</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 23:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:2>Matthew 23:2</verse></h3>


<page=2453>(1) Saying, The scribes and the Pharisees (a) sit in Moses' seat:



(1) We ought to listen to whatever we are truly taught from the word of God, even by wicked
teachers, but in a way so that we abstain from their evil behaviour.



(a) Because God appointed the order, the Lord would therefore have his word to be heard even
from the mouth of hypocrites and hirelings.
#BCV:Matthew 23:3
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:3>Matthew 23:3</verse></h3>




(b) All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, [that] observe and do; but do not ye after their
works: for they say, and do not.



(b) Provided always that they deliver the doctrine of Moses which they profess, which thing the
metaphor of the seat shows, which they occupied as teachers of Moses' teaching.
#BCV:Matthew 23:4
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:4>Matthew 23:4</verse></h3>




(2) For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay [them] on men's shoulders; but
they [themselves] will not move them with one of their fingers.



(2) For the most part hypocrites most severely exact those things which they themselves chiefly
neglect.
#BCV:Matthew 23:5
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:5>Matthew 23:5</verse></h3>




(3) But all their works they do for to be seen of men: they make broad their (c) phylacteries, and
enlarge (d) the borders of their garments,



(3) Hypocrites are ambitious.



(c) It was a thread or ribband of blue silk in the fringe of a corner, the beholding of which made
them remember the laws and ordinances of God: and therefore it was called a phylactery, or as you
would say, a container. See (<bcv=Num 15:38>Num 15:38</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 6:8> Deu 6:8</bcv>), a commandment which the Jews abused afterwards,
as those do today who hang the gospel of John around their necks, which was condemned many
years ago in the Council of Antioch.



(d) Literally, "Twisted tassels of thread which hung at the outermost hems of their garments."
#BCV:Matthew 23:6
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:6>Matthew 23:6</verse></h3>

<page=2454>And love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the chief seats in the (e) synagogues,



(e) When assemblies and councils are gathered together.
#BCV:Matthew 23:7
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:7>Matthew 23:7</verse></h3>



And greetings in the markets, and to be called of men, Rabbi, (f) Rabbi.



(f) This word "Rabbi" signifies one that is above his fellows, and is as good as any of them: and we
may see by the repeating of it how proud a title it was. Now they were called Rabbi who, by the
laying on of hands, were uttered and declared to the world to be wise men.
#BCV:Matthew 23:8
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:8>Matthew 23:8</verse></h3>




(4) But be not ye (g) called Rabbi: for (h) one is your Master, [even] Christ; and all ye are brethren.



(4) Modesty is a singular ornament of God's ministers.



(g) Seek not ambitiously after it: for our Lord does not forbid us to give the magistrate and our
masters the honour that is due to them; Augustine in a sermon on the words of God from <bcv=Mat 11:1-30>(Mat. 11:1-30).</bcv>



(h) He seems to allude to references in (<bcv=Isa 54:13>Isa 54:13</bcv>) and (<bcv=Jer 31:34>Jer 31:34</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 23:9
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:9>Matthew 23:9</verse></h3>



And call no [man] your (i) father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in heaven.



(i) He attacks a custom of the Jews, for they called the rabbis "our fathers".
#BCV:Matthew 23:10
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:10>Matthew 23:10</verse></h3>



Neither be ye called (k) masters: for one is your Master, [even] Christ.



(k) It seems that the scribes hunted very greatly after such titles, these scribes being the ones whom
he called blind guides in (<bcv=Mat 23:16>Mat 23:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 23:12
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:12>Matthew 23:12</verse></h3>



And whosoever (l) shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be
exalted.



(l) He seems to allude to the position of the rabbis, for rabbi signifies one that is in a high position.
#BCV:Matthew 23:13
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:13>Matthew 23:13</verse></h3>


<page=2455>(5) But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, (m) hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven
against men: for ye neither go in [yourselves], neither suffer ye them that are (n) entering to go in.



(5) Hypocrites cannot endure others to be better than themselves.



(m) Christ, when he reproves any man sharply, uses this word to show us that there is nothing more
detestable than hypocrisy and falsehood in religion.



(n) Who are even at the door.
#BCV:Matthew 23:14
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:14>Matthew 23:14</verse></h3>




(6) Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye devour widows' houses, and (o) for a
pretence make long prayer: therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation.



(6) It is a common thing among hypocrites to abuse the pretence of zeal when in reality they are
exercising covetousness and extortion.



(o) Literally, "under a colour of long praying"; and the word "and" signifies a double wickedness in
them: the one, that they devoured widows goods: the other that they did it under a pretence of
godliness.
#BCV:Matthew 23:15
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:15>Matthew 23:15</verse></h3>



Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye compass sea and (p) land to make one
proselyte, and when he is made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.



(p) The dry part: now that part of the earth is called dry which the Lord has given to us to live upon.
#BCV:Matthew 23:16
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:16>Matthew 23:16</verse></h3>



Woe unto you, [ye] blind guides, which say, Whosoever shall swear by the temple, it is nothing; but
whosoever shall swear by the gold of the temple, he (q) is a debtor!



(q) Is a debtor. In the Syrian language, sins are called "Debts", and it is certain that Christ spoke in
Syrian.
#BCV:Matthew 23:17
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:17>Matthew 23:17</verse></h3>



[Ye] fools and blind: for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that (r) sanctifieth the gold?



(r) Causes the gold which is dedicated to a holy use to be considered holy.
#BCV:Matthew 23:22
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:22>Matthew 23:22</verse></h3>

<page=2456>And he that shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the (s) throne of God, and by him that sitteth
thereon.



(s) If heaven is God's throne, than he is without doubt above this entire world.
#BCV:Matthew 23:23
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:23>Matthew 23:23</verse></h3>




(7) Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin,
and have omitted the weightier [matters] of the law, judgment, mercy, and (t) faith: these ought ye to
have done, and not to leave the other undone.



(7) Hypocrites take special care in small matters, and neglect the things which matter the very most.



(t) Faithfulness in the keeping of promises.
#BCV:Matthew 23:25
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:25>Matthew 23:25</verse></h3>




(8) Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of
the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess.



(8) Hypocrites pay too much attention to outward things, and the inward things they utterly
condemn.
#BCV:Matthew 23:29
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:29>Matthew 23:29</verse></h3>




(9) Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! because ye build the tombs of the prophets, and
garnish the sepulchres of the righteous,



(9) Hypocrites, when they try the most to cover up their wickedness, it is then by the just judgment
of God that they shame themselves.
#BCV:Matthew 23:32
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:32>Matthew 23:32</verse></h3>




(u) Fill ye up then the measure of your fathers.



(u) A proverb used by the Jews, which has this meaning: You go on also, and follow your ancestors,
that at length your wickedness may come to its fulness.
#BCV:Matthew 23:34
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:34>Matthew 23:34</verse></h3>




(10) Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and wise men, and scribes: and [some] of them
ye shall kill and crucify; and [some] of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute
[them] from city to city:



(10) Hypocrites are cruel.
#BCV:Matthew 23:35
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:35>Matthew 23:35</verse></h3>


<page=2457>(11) That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed upon the earth, from the blood of
righteous Abel unto the blood of Zacharias son of (y) Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple
and the altar.



(11) The punishment of those who persecute the gospel, under the pretence of zeal.



(y) Of Joiada, who was also called Barach-jah, that is, blessed of the Lord.
#BCV:Matthew 23:37
<h3><verse=Matthew 23:37>Matthew 23:37</verse></h3>




(12) O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, [thou] that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto
thee, how often would I have (z) gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her
chickens under [her] wings, and ye would not!



(12) Where the mercy of God was greatest, it was there that there was the greatest wickedness and
rebellion, and at length the sharpest judgments of God. (z) He speaks of the outward ministry, and
as he was promised for the saving of this people, he was making sure that it would happen, even
from the time that the promise was made to Abraham.

<h2>Matthew 24</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 24:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:2>Matthew 24:2</verse></h3>


<page=2458>(1) And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be
left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.



(1) The destruction of the city, and especially of the temple is foretold.
#BCV:Matthew 24:4
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:4>Matthew 24:4</verse></h3>




(2) And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.



(2) The Church will have a continual conflict with infinite miseries and offences, and furthermore,
with false prophets, until the day of victory and triumph comes.
#BCV:Matthew 24:6
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:6>Matthew 24:6</verse></h3>



And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all [these things]
must come to pass, but the (a) end is not yet.



(a) That is, when those things are fulfilled, yet the end will not come.
#BCV:Matthew 24:7
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:7>Matthew 24:7</verse></h3>



For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and
pestilences, and earthquakes, in (b) divers places.



(b) Everywhere.
#BCV:Matthew 24:8
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:8>Matthew 24:8</verse></h3>



All these [are] the beginning of (c) sorrows.



(c) Literally, "of great torments", just like women in childbirth.
#BCV:Matthew 24:13
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:13>Matthew 24:13</verse></h3>




(3) But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.



(3) The gospel will spread abroad, angering the world and the devil ever so much: and those who
continually believe will be saved.
#BCV:Matthew 24:14
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:14>Matthew 24:14</verse></h3>

<page=2459>And this (d) gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the (e) world for a witness unto all
nations; and then shall the end come.



(d) Joyful tidings of the kingdom of heaven.



(e) Through all that part of the world that people live in.
#BCV:Matthew 24:15
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:15>Matthew 24:15</verse></h3>




(4) When ye therefore shall see the (f) abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet,
stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:)



(4) The kingdom of Christ will not be abolished when the city of Jerusalem is utterly destroyed, but
will be stretched out even to the end of the world.



(f) The abomination of desolation, that is to say, the one who all men detest and cannot abide,
because of the foul and shameful filthiness of it: and he speaks of the idols that were set up in the
temple, or as others think, he meant the marring of the doctrine in the Church.
#BCV:Matthew 24:18
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:18>Matthew 24:18</verse></h3>



Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his (g) clothes.



(g) This is a sign of how great the fear will be.
#BCV:Matthew 24:20
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:20>Matthew 24:20</verse></h3>



But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the (h) sabbath day:



(h) It was not lawful to take a journey on the sabbath day; Josephus, book 13.
#BCV:Matthew 24:22
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:22>Matthew 24:22</verse></h3>



And except (i) those days should be shortened, there should no (k) flesh be saved: but for the elect's
sake those days shall be shortened.



(i) Those things which befell the people of the Jews in the thirty-four years, when the whole land
was wasted, and at length the city of Jerusalem was taken, and both it and their temple destroyed,
are mixed with those things which will come to pass before the last coming of the Lord.



(k) The whole nation would utterly be destroyed: and this word "flesh" is a figurative word for
"man", as the Hebrews used to say.
#BCV:Matthew 24:24
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:24>Matthew 24:24</verse></h3>

<page=2460>For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and (l) shall shew great signs and wonders;
insomuch that, if [it were] possible, they shall deceive the very elect.



(l) Will openly set forth great signs for men to behold.
#BCV:Matthew 24:28
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:28>Matthew 24:28</verse></h3>




(5) For wheresoever the (m) carcase is, there will the eagles be gathered together.



(5) The only remedy against the furious rage of the world is that of being gathered and joined to
Christ.



(m) Christ, who will come with speed; and his presence will be with a majesty to whom all will flock,
just like Eagles.
#BCV:Matthew 24:29
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:29>Matthew 24:29</verse></h3>




(6) Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not
give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken:



(6) Everlasting damnation will be the end of the security of the wicked, and everlasting bliss for the
miseries of the godly.
#BCV:Matthew 24:30
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:30>Matthew 24:30</verse></h3>



And then shall appear the (n) sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the (o) tribes of
the earth (p) mourn, and they shall see the Son of man (q) coming in the clouds of heaven with
power and great glory.



(n) The exceeding glory and majesty, which will bear witness that Christ the Lord of heaven and
earth draws near to judge the world.



(o) All nations, and he alludes to the dispersion which we read of in (Genesis 10-11), or to the
dividing of the people of Israel.



(p) They will be in such sorrow, that they will strike themselves: and it is transferred to the mourning.



(q) Sitting upon the clouds, as he was taken up into heaven.
#BCV:Matthew 24:31
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:31>Matthew 24:31</verse></h3>



And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect
from the (r) four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.



(r) From the four corners of the world.
#BCV:Matthew 24:32
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:32>Matthew 24:32</verse></h3>


<page=2461>(7) Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet (s) tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye
know that summer [is] nigh:



(7) If God has prescribed a certain order to nature, much more has he done so to his eternal
judgments; but the wicked do not understand it, or rather they mock it: but the godly make note of
it, and wait for it.



(s) When its tenderness shows that the sap which is the life of the tree has come from the roots into
the bark.
#BCV:Matthew 24:34
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:34>Matthew 24:34</verse></h3>



Verily I say unto you, This (t) generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.



(t) This age: the word "generation" or "age" is here being used for the men of this age.
#BCV:Matthew 24:35
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:35>Matthew 24:35</verse></h3>




(8) Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.



(8) The Lord now begins the judgment, which he will finish in the latter days.
#BCV:Matthew 24:36
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:36>Matthew 24:36</verse></h3>




(9) But of that day and hour knoweth no [man], no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.



(9) It is sufficient for us to know that God has appointed a latter day for the restoring of all things;
but when it will be is hidden from us all for our sake, so that we may be all the more watchful, so
that we are not taken as those were taken in the flood years ago.
#BCV:Matthew 24:38
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:38>Matthew 24:38</verse></h3>



For as in the days that were before the flood they were (u) eating and drinking, marrying and giving
in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark,



(u) The word which the evangelist uses expresses the matter more fully then ours does: for it is a
word which is used of brute beasts: and his meaning is that in those days men will pay attention to
their appetites just like brute beasts: for otherwise there is nothing wrong with eating and drinking.
#BCV:Matthew 24:40
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:40>Matthew 24:40</verse></h3>


<page=2462>(10) Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.



(10) Against those that persuade themselves that God will be merciful to all men, and do by this
means give themselves over to sin, that they may in the meantime live in pleasure, void of all care.
#BCV:Matthew 24:41
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:41>Matthew 24:41</verse></h3>




(x) Two [women shall be] grinding at the mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left.



(x) The Greek women and the barbarians ground and baked.
#BCV:Matthew 24:42
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:42>Matthew 24:42</verse></h3>




(11) Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.



(11) An example of the horrible carelessness of men in those things in which they ought to be most
careful.
#BCV:Matthew 24:51
<h3><verse=Matthew 24:51>Matthew 24:51</verse></h3>



And shall (y) cut him asunder, and appoint [him] his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be
weeping and gnashing of teeth.



(y) That is, from the rest, or will cut him into two pieces, which was a most cruel kind of
punishment: with which, as Justin Martyr witnesses, Isaiah the Prophet was executed by the Jews: the
same kind of punishment we read of in (<bcv=I Sa 15:33>Sa1 15:33</bcv>) and (<bcv=Dan 3:29>Dan 3:29</bcv>).

<h2>Matthew 25</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 25:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 25:1>Matthew 25:1</verse></h3>

<page=2463>Then (1) shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and (a)
went forth to meet the bridegroom.



(1) We must desire strength from God's hand which may serve us as a torch while we walk through
this darkness, to bring us to our desired end: otherwise, if we become slothful and negligent because
we are weary of our pains and travail, we shall be kept from entering the doors.



(a) The pomp of weddings was usually preferred to be done at night, and that by young unmarried
women.
#BCV:Matthew 25:5
<h3><verse=Matthew 25:5>Matthew 25:5</verse></h3>



While the bridegroom tarried, they all (b) slumbered and slept.



(b) Their eyes being heavy with sleep.
#BCV:Matthew 25:14
<h3><verse=Matthew 25:14>Matthew 25:14</verse></h3>




(2) For [the kingdom of heaven is] as a man travelling into a far country, [who] called his own
servants, and delivered unto them his goods.



(2) Christ witnesses that there will be a long time between his departure to his Father and his coming
again to us, but yet notwithstanding that, he will at that day take an account not only of the
rebellious and obstinate, how they have made use of that which they received from him, but also of
his household servants, who have because of slothfulness not employed those gifts which he
bestowed upon them.
#BCV:Matthew 25:15
<h3><verse=Matthew 25:15>Matthew 25:15</verse></h3>



And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his
several (c) ability; and straightway took his journey.



(c) According to the wisdom and skill in dealing which was given to them.
#BCV:Matthew 25:21
<h3><verse=Matthew 25:21>Matthew 25:21</verse></h3>



His lord said unto him, Well done, [thou] good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a
few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: (d) enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

<page=2464>(d) Come and receive the fruit of my goodness: now the Lord's joy is doubled; see (Joh 15:11): that
my joy may remain in you, and your joy be fulfilled.
#BCV:Matthew 25:27
<h3><verse=Matthew 25:27>Matthew 25:27</verse></h3>



Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the (e) exchangers, and [then] at my coming I
should have received mine own with usury.



(e) Bankers who have their shops or tables set up abroad, where they lend money at interest. Usury
or loaning money at interest is strictly forbidden by the Bible, (<bcv=Exo 22:25-27>Exo 22:25-27</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 23:19-20> Deu 23:19-20</bcv>). Even a
rate as low as one per cent interest was disallowed, (<bcv=Neh 5:11>Neh 5:11</bcv>). This servant had already told two lies.
First he said the master was an austere or harsh man. This is a lie for the Lord is merciful and
gracious. Next he called his master a thief because he reaped where he did not sow. Finally the
master said to him sarcastically why did you not add insult to injury and loan the money out at
interest so you could call your master a "usurer" too! If the servant had done this, his master would
have been responsible for his servant's actions and guilty of usury.
#BCV:Matthew 25:31
<h3><verse=Matthew 25:31>Matthew 25:31</verse></h3>




(3) When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit
upon the throne of his glory:



(3) A graphic setting forth of the everlasting judgment which is to come.
#BCV:Matthew 25:34
<h3><verse=Matthew 25:34>Matthew 25:34</verse></h3>



Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye (f) blessed of my Father, inherit the
kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:



(f) Blessed and happy, upon whom my Father has most abundantly bestowed his benefits.

<h2>Matthew 26</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 26:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:1>Matthew 26:1</verse></h3>

<page=2465>And (1) it came to pass, when Jesus had finished all these sayings, he said unto his disciples,



(1) Christ witnesses by his going to death voluntarily, that he will make full satisfaction for the sin of
Adam by his obedience.
#BCV:Matthew 26:2
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:2>Matthew 26:2</verse></h3>




(2) Ye know that after two days is [the feast of] the passover, and the Son of man is betrayed to be
crucified.



(2) God himself and not man appoints the time that Christ should be crucified.
#BCV:Matthew 26:5
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:5>Matthew 26:5</verse></h3>



But they said, Not on the (a) feast [day], lest there be an uproar among the people.



(a) By the word "feast" is meant the whole feast of unleavened bread: the first and eighth day of
which were so holy that they were not allowed to do any work on it, though the whole company of
the Sanhedrin determined otherwise: And yet it came to pass through God's providence, that Christ
suffered at that time, so that all the people of Israel might be witnesses of his everlasting sacrifice.
#BCV:Matthew 26:6
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:6>Matthew 26:6</verse></h3>




(3) Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper,



(3) By this sudden work of a sinful woman, Christ helps the guests to understand about his death
and burial which was near: the gracious result of which will bring life to all sinners who flee unto
him. But Judas takes an occasion here to accomplish his wicked purpose and plan.
#BCV:Matthew 26:7
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:7>Matthew 26:7</verse></h3>




(b) There came unto him a woman having an alabaster (c) box of very precious ointment, and
poured it on his head, as he sat [at meat].



(b) For these things were done before Christ came to Jerusalem: and yet some think that the
evangelists have two differing accounts.



(c) These boxes were of alabaster, which in ancient times men made hollow to put in ointments: for
some write that alabaster keeps ointment without changing it in any way; Pliny, book 13, chap. 1.
#BCV:Matthew 26:8
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:8>Matthew 26:8</verse></h3>

#BCV:mat 26:8
<h3><verse=mat 26:8>mat 26:8</verse></h3>




(d) This is a figure of speech called synecdoche: for it is said that only Judas was moved at this; (Joh
12:4).



(e) Unprofitable spending.
#BCV:Matthew 26:10
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:10>Matthew 26:10</verse></h3>




(4) When Jesus understood [it], he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath wrought
a good work upon me.



(4) We ought not to rashly condemn that which is not orderly done.
#BCV:Matthew 26:11
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:11>Matthew 26:11</verse></h3>




(5) For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always.



(5) Christ, who was once anointed in his own person, must always be anointed in the poor.
#BCV:Matthew 26:12
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:12>Matthew 26:12</verse></h3>



For (f) in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did [it] for my burial.



(f) In that she poured this ointment upon my body, she did it to bury me.
#BCV:Matthew 26:17
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:17>Matthew 26:17</verse></h3>




(6) Now (g) the first [day] of the [feast of] unleavened bread the disciples came to Jesus, saying unto
him, Where wilt thou that we prepare for thee to eat the passover?



(6) Christ purposing to bring us into our country without delay and so, to pay the penalty of the law,
truly fulfils the law, omitting the contrary tradition and custom of the Jews: and thus shows that all
things will so come to pass by the ministry of men as governed by the secret plan of God.



(g) This was the fourteenth day of the first month: now the first day of unleavened bread should
have been the fifteenth, but because the evening of this day (which after the manner of the Romans
was referred to the day before) belonged by the Jews' manner to the day following, therefore it is
called the first day of unleavened bread.
#BCV:Matthew 26:20
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:20>Matthew 26:20</verse></h3>



Now when the even was come, he (h) sat down with the twelve.

<page=2467>(h) Because the Law appointed them to be wearing footwear, and to have their staffs in their hands,
as though they were is haste, therefore it is to be gathered that they did not sit down when they ate
the Passover, but stood, for normally when they went to eat they took off their shoes: therefore he
speaks here in this place, not of the Passover, but of the supper which was celebrated after the
Passover was solemnly done.
#BCV:Matthew 26:23
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:23>Matthew 26:23</verse></h3>



And he answered and said, He that (i) dippeth [his] hand with me in the dish, the same shall betray
me.




(i) That is to say, he whom I invited to come to my table, alluding in this to (<bcv=Psa 41:9>Psa 41:9</bcv>), which is not to
be understood as though just as the Lord spoke these words Judas had his hand in the dish (for that
would have been an undoubted sign) but it refers to his tabling and eating with him.
#BCV:Matthew 26:25
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:25>Matthew 26:25</verse></h3>



Then Judas, (k) which betrayed him, answered and said, Master, is it I? He said unto him, Thou hast
said.



(k) Who was thinking of nothing else but to betray him.
#BCV:Matthew 26:26
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:26>Matthew 26:26</verse></h3>




(7) And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and (l) blessed [it], and brake [it], and gave [it] to the
disciples, and said, Take, eat; (m) this is my body.



(7) Christ who will without delay fulfil the promises of the old covenant, institutes a new covenant
with new signs.



(l) Mark says, "Had given thanks": and therefore blessing is not a consecrating with a conjuring type
of murmuring and power of words: and yet the bread and the wine are changed, not in nature but in
quality, for without doubt they become tokens of the body and blood of Christ, not of their own
nature or force of words, but by Christ his institution, which must be recited and laid forth, that
faith may find what to lay hold on, both in the word and in the elements.



(m) This is a figure of speech which is called metonymy: that is to say, the giving of one name for
another: so he calls the bread his body, which is the sign and sacrament of his body: and yet
nonetheless, it is a figurative and changed kind of speech meaning that the faithful do indeed receive
Christ with all his gifts (though by a spiritual means) and become one with him.
#BCV:Matthew 26:27
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:27>Matthew 26:27</verse></h3>



And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave [it] to them, saying, Drink ye (n) all of it;

<page=2468>(n) Therefore they who took away the cup from the people, disobeyed the instruction of Christ.
#BCV:Matthew 26:28
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:28>Matthew 26:28</verse></h3>




(o) For this is my blood of the (p) new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.



(o) That is, this cup or wine is my blood sacramentally, as in See<bcv=Luk 22:20> Luk 22:20</bcv>.



(p) Or covenant, that is to say, by which the new league and covenant is made, for in the making of
leagues they used the pouring of wine and shedding of blood.
#BCV:Matthew 26:30
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:30>Matthew 26:30</verse></h3>



And when they had sung (q) an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives.



(q) When they had made an end of their solemn singing, which some think was six Psalms, (Psa
112:1;<bcv=Psa 117:2> Psa 117:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 26:31
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:31>Matthew 26:31</verse></h3>




(8) Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I
will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.



(8) Christ, here taking more care of his disciples than of himself, forewarns them of their falling
away, and provides them with some comfort.
#BCV:Matthew 26:36
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:36>Matthew 26:36</verse></h3>




(9) Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye
here, while I go and pray yonder.



(9) Christ having regard to the weakness of his disciples, leaves all the rest in safety, and takes with
him but three to be witnesses of his anguish, and goes on purpose into the place where he would be
betrayed.
#BCV:Matthew 26:37
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:37>Matthew 26:37</verse></h3>



And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and (r) very
heavy.



(r) The word which he uses signifies great sorrow, and tremendous and deadly grief: this thing, as it
indicates man's true nature, which shuns death as a thing that entered in against nature, shows that
though Christ was void of sin, yet he sustained this horrible punishment, because he felt the wrath
of God kindled against us for sins, which he revenged and punished in his person.
#BCV:Matthew 26:38
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:38>Matthew 26:38</verse></h3>


<page=2469>(10) Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and
watch with me.



(10) Christ, a true man, who is about to suffer the punishment which we should have suffered for
forsaking God, is forsaken by his own: he has a terrible conflict with the horror and fear of the
curse of God: out of which he, since he escaped as a conqueror, causes us not to be afraid of death
any more.
#BCV:Matthew 26:39
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:39>Matthew 26:39</verse></h3>



And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, (s)
let this (t) cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou [wilt].



(s) Let it pass me, and not touch me.



(t) That is, which is at hand, and is offered and prepared for me: an idiom which the Hebrews use
for the wrath of God, and the punishment he sends. See<bcv=Mat 20:22> Mat 20:22</bcv>.
#BCV:Matthew 26:40
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:40>Matthew 26:40</verse></h3>




(11) And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye
not watch with me one hour?



(11) An example of the carelessness of man.
#BCV:Matthew 26:46
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:46>Matthew 26:46</verse></h3>




(12) Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me.



(12) Christ offers himself willingly to be taken, that in so obeying willingly he might make
satisfaction for the wilful fall of man.
#BCV:Matthew 26:47
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:47>Matthew 26:47</verse></h3>



And while he yet spake, lo, Judas, one of the twelve, came, and with him a great multitude with
swords and staves, (u) from the chief priests and elders of the people.



(u) Sent from the high Priests.
#BCV:Matthew 26:50
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:50>Matthew 26:50</verse></h3>


<page=2470>(13) And Jesus said unto him, (x) Friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they, and laid hands
on Jesus, and took him.



(13) Christ is taken, that we might be delivered.



(x) Christ reprehends Judas tauntingly, and rebukes him sharply, for he knew well enough why he
came.
#BCV:Matthew 26:52
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:52>Matthew 26:52</verse></h3>




(14) Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that (y) take the
sword shall perish with the sword.



(14) Our vocation must govern our zeal.



(y) They take the sword to whom the Lord has not given it, that is to say, they who use the sword
and are not called to it.
#BCV:Matthew 26:53
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:53>Matthew 26:53</verse></h3>




(15) Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than
twelve legions of angels?



(15) Christ was taken because he was willing to be taken.
#BCV:Matthew 26:54
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:54>Matthew 26:54</verse></h3>




(z) But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus it must be?



(z) By this questioning he answers a sly objection, for they might have asked him why he did not in
this his great extremity of danger call to his Father for aid: but to this objection he answers by this
question.
#BCV:Matthew 26:57
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:57>Matthew 26:57</verse></h3>




(16) And they that had laid hold on Jesus led [him] away to (a) Caiaphas the high priest, where the
scribes and the elders were assembled.



(16) Christ being innocent is condemned by the high Priest for that wickedness of which we are
guilty.



(a) From Annas to Caiaphas, before whom the multitude was assembled; (<bcv=John 18:13>Joh 18:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 26:58
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:58>Matthew 26:58</verse></h3>

<page=2471>But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priest's (b) palace, and went in, and sat with the
servants, to see the end.



(b) The word used here properly denotes an open large room in the front of a house, as we see in
kings' palaces and noblemen's houses: we call it a court, for it is open to the air, and by the use of
synecdoche, is understood to mean the house itself.
#BCV:Matthew 26:62
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:62>Matthew 26:62</verse></h3>



And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answerest thou nothing? (c) what [is it which] these
witness against thee?



(c) How does it come to pass that these men witness against thee?
#BCV:Matthew 26:64
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:64>Matthew 26:64</verse></h3>



Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say unto you, (d) Hereafter shall ye see the Son
of man sitting (e) on the right hand of power, and coming in the (f) clouds of heaven.



(d) This word distinguishes his first coming from the latter.



(e) Sitting with God in like and equal honour at the right hand of his power, that is, in greatest
power: for the right hand signifies among the Hebrews that which is mighty and of great power.



(f) Clouds of heaven; see above in (<bcv=Mat 24:30>Mat 24:30</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 26:65
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:65>Matthew 26:65</verse></h3>



Then the high priest (g) rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have
we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy.



(g) This was a peculiar custom among the Jews: for so were they bound to do when they heard any
Israelite blaspheme God, and it was a tradition of their talmud in the book of the magistrates, in the
title, of the four kinds of death.
#BCV:Matthew 26:69
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:69>Matthew 26:69</verse></h3>




(17) Now Peter (h) sat without in the palace: and a damsel came unto him, saying, Thou also wast
with Jesus of Galilee.



(17) Peter by the wonderful providence of God, in being appointed to be a witness of all these
things, is prepared to be an example of outstanding faithfulness through this experience of unbelief.



(h) That is, outside the place where the bishop sat, but not outside of the house, for afterward he
went from there into the porch.
#BCV:Matthew 26:74
<h3><verse=Matthew 26:74>Matthew 26:74</verse></h3>

<page=2472>Then began he to (i) curse and to swear, [saying], I know not the man. And immediately the cock
crew.



(i) He swore and cursed himself.

<h2>Matthew 27</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 27:3
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:3>Matthew 27:3</verse></h3>


<page=2473>(1) Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself,
and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,



(1) An example of the horrible judgment of God upon those who sell Christ as opposed to those
who buy Christ.
#BCV:Matthew 27:5
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:5>Matthew 27:5</verse></h3>



And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and (a) departed, and went and hanged himself.



(a) Out of the sight of men.
#BCV:Matthew 27:6
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:6>Matthew 27:6</verse></h3>



And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is not lawful for to put them into the (b)
treasury, because it is the price (c) of blood.



(b) The treasury of the temple.



(c) Of life and death.
#BCV:Matthew 27:7
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:7>Matthew 27:7</verse></h3>



And they took counsel, and bought with them the potter's field, to bury (d) strangers in.



(d) Strangers and guests, whom the Jews could not endure to be joined with even after they were
dead.
#BCV:Matthew 27:9
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:9>Matthew 27:9</verse></h3>



Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by (e) Jeremy the prophet, saying, (f) And they took the
thirty pieces of silver, the price of him that was valued, whom they of the children of Israel did
value;



(e) As this prophecy is found in (<bcv=Zec 11:12>Zac 11:12</bcv>) it cannot be denied that Jeremy's name slipped into the
text either through the fault of the Scribe, or by someone else's ignorance: it may also be that it
came out of the margin by means of the abbreviation on one of the letters, the one being "yod" and
the other being "zayin", which are very similar: But in the Syrian text the Prophet's name is not
written down at all.

<page=2474>(f) The evangelist does not follow the prophet's words, but instead he follows the prophet's meaning,
which he shows to have been fulfilled.
#BCV:Matthew 27:11
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:11>Matthew 27:11</verse></h3>




(2) And Jesus stood before the governor: and the governor asked him, saying, Art thou the King of
the Jews? And Jesus said unto him, Thou sayest.



(2) Christ holds his peace when he is accused in order that we may not be accused: acknowledging
our guiltiness, and at the same time his own innocence.
#BCV:Matthew 27:15
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:15>Matthew 27:15</verse></h3>




(3) Now at [that] feast the governor was wont to release unto the people a prisoner, whom they
would.



(3) Christ is first acquitted by the same judge who condemns him, that we might see how the just
dies for the unjust.
#BCV:Matthew 27:24
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:24>Matthew 27:24</verse></h3>




(4) When Pilate saw that he could prevail nothing, but [that] rather a tumult was made, he took water,
and (g) washed [his] hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the (h) blood of this just
person: see ye [to it].



(4) Christ being acquitted by the testimony of the judge himself is nonetheless condemned by him,
in order to acquit us before God.



(g) It was a custom in ancient times that when any man was murdered, or there were other slaughters,
to wash their hands in water to declare themselves guiltless.



(h) Of the murder; a Hebrew idiom.
#BCV:Matthew 27:25
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:25>Matthew 27:25</verse></h3>



Then answered all the people, and said, (i) His blood [be] on us, and on our children.



(i) If there is any offence committed in slaying him, let us and our posterity suffer for it.
#BCV:Matthew 27:28
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:28>Matthew 27:28</verse></h3>




(5) And they stripped him, and (k) put on him a (l) scarlet robe.



(5) Christ endures that reproach which was due to our sins; meanwhile, in spite of this, by the secret
providence of God he is entitled king by those who did him that reproach.

<page=2475>(k) They threw a cloak about him and wrapped it around him, for it did not have any sleeves.



(l) John and Mark also mention a purple robe, which is also a very pleasant red. But these profane
and impudently disrespectful soldiers clad Jesus in this array to make an additional mockery of him,
this one who was indeed a true King.
#BCV:Matthew 27:32
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:32>Matthew 27:32</verse></h3>



And as they came out, they found a man of Cyrene, Simon by name: him they (m) compelled to
bear his cross.



(m) They compelled Simon to bear his burdensome cross, by which it appears that Jesus was so
poorly handled before that he fainted along the way, and was not able to bear his cross the whole
distance: for John writes that he did bear the cross, that is, at the beginning.
#BCV:Matthew 27:33
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:33>Matthew 27:33</verse></h3>




(6) And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha, that is to say, a place of a skull,



(6) He is led out of the city so that we might be brought into the heavenly kingdom.
#BCV:Matthew 27:34
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:34>Matthew 27:34</verse></h3>




(7) They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall: and when he had tasted [thereof], he would
not drink.



(7) Christ found no comfort anywhere, that in him we might be filled with comfort.
#BCV:Matthew 27:35
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:35>Matthew 27:35</verse></h3>




(8) And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was
spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast
lots.



(8) He is made a curse, so that in him we may be blessed: his garments are taken from him so that
we might be enriched by his nakedness.
#BCV:Matthew 27:37
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:37>Matthew 27:37</verse></h3>




(9) And set up over his head his accusation written, THIS IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.



(9) He is pronounced the true Messiah, even by those who reject him.
#BCV:Matthew 27:38
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:38>Matthew 27:38</verse></h3>

#BCV:mat 27:38
<h3><verse=mat 27:38>mat 27:38</verse></h3>




(10) Christ then began to judge the world, when after his judgment he hung between two thieves.
#BCV:Matthew 27:39
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:39>Matthew 27:39</verse></h3>




(11) And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their heads,



(11) To make full satisfaction for us, Christ suffered and overcame not only the torments of the
body, but also the most horrible torments of the mind.
#BCV:Matthew 27:44
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:44>Matthew 27:44</verse></h3>



The (n) thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the same in his teeth.



(n) This is spoken using the figure of speech called synecdoche, for only one of the thieves reviled
him.
#BCV:Matthew 27:45
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:45>Matthew 27:45</verse></h3>




(12) Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour.



(12) Heaven itself is darkened for very horror, and Jesus cries out from the depth of hell, and all
during this time he is being mocked.
#BCV:Matthew 27:46
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:46>Matthew 27:46</verse></h3>



And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to
say, My God, my God, why hast thou (o) forsaken me?



(o) That is, in this misery: And this crying out is a natural part of his humanity, which, even though
it was void of sin, still felt the wrath of God, the wrath which is due to our sins.
#BCV:Matthew 27:47
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:47>Matthew 27:47</verse></h3>



Some of them that stood there, when they heard [that], said, This [man] calleth for (p) Elias.



(p) They allude to Elias' name, not because they did not understand what he said, but because of a
profane impudence and disrespect, and he repeated those words so that this repetition of the name
might be understood.
#BCV:Matthew 27:50
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:50>Matthew 27:50</verse></h3>


<page=2477>(13) Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost.



(13) Christ, after he had overcome other enemies, at length provokes and attacks death itself.
#BCV:Matthew 27:51
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:51>Matthew 27:51</verse></h3>




(14) And, behold, the (q) veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom; and the
earth did quake, and the rocks rent;



(14) Christ, when he is dead, shows himself to be God Almighty, and even his enemies confess the
same.



(q) Which separated the holiest of all.
#BCV:Matthew 27:52
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:52>Matthew 27:52</verse></h3>



And the (r) graves were opened; and many bodies of the saints which slept arose,



(r) That is to say, the stones broke apart, and the graves opened themselves to show by this act that
death was overcome: and the resurrection of the dead followed the resurrection of Christ, as the
next verse indicates (<bcv=Mat 27:53>Mat 27:53</bcv>).
#BCV:Matthew 27:57
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:57>Matthew 27:57</verse></h3>




(15) When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathaea, named Joseph, who also
himself was Jesus' disciple:



(15) Christ is buried, not privately or by stealth, but with the governor's consent, by a famous man,
in a place not far distant, in a new tomb, so that his death cannot be doubted.
#BCV:Matthew 27:62
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:62>Matthew 27:62</verse></h3>




(16) Now the next day, that followed the day of the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees
came together unto Pilate,



(16) The keeping of the tomb is committed to Christ's own murderers, so that there might be no
doubt of his resurrection.
#BCV:Matthew 27:65
<h3><verse=Matthew 27:65>Matthew 27:65</verse></h3>



Pilate said unto them, Ye have a (f) watch: go your way, make [it] as sure as ye can.



(f) The soldiers of the garrison who were appointed to guard the temple.

<h2>Matthew 28</h2>

#BCV:Matthew 28:1
<h3><verse=Matthew 28:1>Matthew 28:1</verse></h3>

<page=2478>In (1) the (a) end of the sabbath, as it (b) began to dawn toward the first [day] of the week, came
Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre.



(1) Christ, having routed death in the tomb, rises by his own power, as the angel immediately
witnesses.



(a) At the going out of the sabbath, that is, about daybreak after the Roman manner of telling time,
which considers the natural day to be from the rising of the sun to the next sunrise: and not as the
Hebrews, which count from evening to evening.



(b) When the morning of the first day after the sabbath began to dawn: and that first day is the same
as that which we now call Sunday, or the Lord's day.
#BCV:Matthew 28:3
<h3><verse=Matthew 28:3>Matthew 28:3</verse></h3>



His (c) countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:



(c) The beams of his eyes, and by the figure of speech called synecdoche, this is understood as the
countenance.
#BCV:Matthew 28:5
<h3><verse=Matthew 28:5>Matthew 28:5</verse></h3>



And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not (d) ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus,
which was crucified.



(d) The word "ye" is spoken with force to indicate that it was the women to whom he was speaking,
as the soldiers were also afraid.
#BCV:Matthew 28:9
<h3><verse=Matthew 28:9>Matthew 28:9</verse></h3>




(2) And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, All hail. And they came and
held him by the feet, and worshipped him.



(2) Christ himself appears after his resurrection, and sending the women to his disciples, shows that
he has not forgotten them.
#BCV:Matthew 28:11
<h3><verse=Matthew 28:11>Matthew 28:11</verse></h3>




(3) Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch came into the city, and shewed unto the
chief priests all the things that were done.

<page=2479>(3) The more that the sun shines, the more that the wicked are blinded.
#BCV:Matthew 28:14
<h3><verse=Matthew 28:14>Matthew 28:14</verse></h3>



And if this (e) come to the governor's ears, we will persuade him, and secure you.



(e) For it was to be feared that it would be brought to the governor's ears.
#BCV:Matthew 28:16
<h3><verse=Matthew 28:16>Matthew 28:16</verse></h3>




(4) Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed
them.



(4) Christ appears also to his disciples, whom he makes apostles.
#BCV:Matthew 28:19
<h3><verse=Matthew 28:19>Matthew 28:19</verse></h3>




(5) Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them (f) in the name of the Father, and of the
Son, and of the Holy Spirit:



(5) The sum of the apostleship is the proclaiming of the doctrine received from Christ throughout
all the world, and the ministering of the sacraments: the efficacy of which things depends not on the
ministers but on the Lord.



(f) Calling upon the Name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
#BCV:Matthew 28:20
<h3><verse=Matthew 28:20>Matthew 28:20</verse></h3>



Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you (g)
alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.



(g) Forever: and this refers to the manner of the presence of his Spirit, by means of which he makes
us partakers both of himself and of all his benefits, even though he is absent from us in body.

<h1>Mark</h1>


<h2>Mark 1</h2>

#BCV:Mark 1:2
<h3><verse=Mark 1:2>Mark 1:2</verse></h3>


<page=2481>(1) As it is written in the (a) prophets, Behold, (b) I send my messenger (c) before thy face, which
shall prepare thy way before thee.


(1) John goes before Christ as it was foretold by the prophets.

(a) This is the figure of speech called metonymy, by which is meant the books of the prophets
Malachi and Isaiah.

(b) The prophet uses the present tense when he speaks of a thing to come, as he is as sure of it as if
he had already seen it.

(c) A metaphor taken from the practice of kings, who used to have ushers go before them.
#BCV:Mark 1:4
<h3><verse=Mark 1:4>Mark 1:4</verse></h3>

(2) John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the (d) baptism of repentance for the remission
of sins.

(2) The sum of John's doctrine, or rather Christ's, is remission of sins and amendment of life.

(d) The Jews used many kinds of washings: but here a peculiar kind of washing is spoken of, which
contains within it true baptism, amendment of life, and forgiveness of sins.
#BCV:Mark 1:7
<h3><verse=Mark 1:7>Mark 1:7</verse></h3>


(3) And preached, saying, There cometh one mightier than I after me, the latchet of whose shoes I
am not worthy to (e) stoop down and unloose.

(3) John and all ministers cast their eyes upon Christ the Lord.

(e) The evangelist is expressing here the condition of the basest servant.
#BCV:Mark 1:8
<h3><verse=Mark 1:8>Mark 1:8</verse></h3>

I indeed have (f) baptized you with water: but he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost.


(f) He shows that all the power of baptism proceeds from Christ, who baptizes the inner man.
#BCV:Mark 1:9
<h3><verse=Mark 1:9>Mark 1:9</verse></h3>

#BCV:mar 1:9
<h3><verse=mar 1:9>mar 1:9</verse></h3>

of John in Jordan.


(4) Christ consecrates our baptism in himself.
#BCV:Mark 1:10
<h3><verse=Mark 1:10>Mark 1:10</verse></h3>




(5) And straightway (g) coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a
dove descending upon him:



(5) The vocation of Christ from heaven, as head of the Church.



(g) John, who went down into the water with Christ.
#BCV:Mark 1:11
<h3><verse=Mark 1:11>Mark 1:11</verse></h3>



And there came a voice from heaven, [saying], Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am (h) well
pleased.



(h) See<bcv=Mat 3:17> Mat 3:17</bcv>
#BCV:Mark 1:12
<h3><verse=Mark 1:12>Mark 1:12</verse></h3>




(6) And immediately the Spirit (i) driveth him into the wilderness.



(6) Christ being tempted overcomes.



(i) "Driveth" here does not refer to something violent and forcible: but the divine power clothes
Christ (who had lived until this time as a private man) with a new person, and prepares him for the
battle that was at hand, and for his ministry.
#BCV:Mark 1:14
<h3><verse=Mark 1:14>Mark 1:14</verse></h3>




(7) Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the
kingdom of God,



(7) After John is taken Christ shows himself more fully.
#BCV:Mark 1:16
<h3><verse=Mark 1:16>Mark 1:16</verse></h3>




(8) Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting a net into
the sea: for they were fishers.



(8) The calling of Simon and Andrew.
#BCV:Mark 1:19
<h3><verse=Mark 1:19>Mark 1:19</verse></h3>


<page=2483>(9) And when he had gone a little further thence, he saw James the [son] of Zebedee, and John his
brother, who also were in the ship mending their nets.



(9) The calling of James and John.
#BCV:Mark 1:21
<h3><verse=Mark 1:21>Mark 1:21</verse></h3>



And they went into (k) Capernaum; and straightway on the sabbath day he entered into the
synagogue, and taught.



(k) From the city of Nazareth.
#BCV:Mark 1:23
<h3><verse=Mark 1:23>Mark 1:23</verse></h3>




(10) And there was in their synagogue a man (l) with an unclean spirit; and he cried out,



(10) He preaches that doctrine by which alone Satan is driven out of the world, which he also
confirms by a miracle.



(l) Literally, "a man in an unclean spirit", that is to say, possessed with an evil spirit.
#BCV:Mark 1:24
<h3><verse=Mark 1:24>Mark 1:24</verse></h3>



Saying, Let [us] alone; what have we to do with thee, thou (m) Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to
destroy us? I know thee who thou art, the (n) Holy One of God.



(m) He was born in Bethlehem, but through the error of the people he was called a Nazarene,
because he was brought up in Nazareth.



(n) He alludes to the name that was written in the golden plate which the high Priest wore; <bcv=Exo 28:36>(Exo 28:36)</bcv>

#BCV:Mark 1:26
<h3><verse=Mark 1:26>Mark 1:26</verse></h3>



And when the unclean spirit (o) had torn him, and cried with a loud voice, he came out of him.



(o) See below, (<bcv=Mar 9:20>Mar 9:20</bcv>).
#BCV:Mark 1:27
<h3><verse=Mark 1:27>Mark 1:27</verse></h3>

<page=2484>And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned (p) among themselves, saying, What thing
is this? what new doctrine [is] this? for with authority (q) commandeth he even the unclean spirits,
and they do obey him.



(p) As men who were amazed.

(q) By his own authority, or as a lord.

#BCV:Mark 1:28
<h3><verse=Mark 1:28>Mark 1:28</verse></h3>



And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all the region (r) round about Galilee.



(r) Not only into Galilee, but also into the countries bordering upon it.
#BCV:Mark 1:29
<h3><verse=Mark 1:29>Mark 1:29</verse></h3>




(11) And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue, they entered into the house of
Simon and Andrew, with James and John.



(11) By healing different diseases he shows that he has brought true life into the world.
#BCV:Mark 1:34
<h3><verse=Mark 1:34>Mark 1:34</verse></h3>



And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases, and cast out many devils; and (f) suffered not
the devils to speak, because they knew him.



(s) For it is not proper for the demons to preach the gospel; (<bcv=Acts 16:18>Act 16:18</bcv>)
#BCV:Mark 1:38
<h3><verse=Mark 1:38>Mark 1:38</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, Let us go into the (t) next towns, that I may preach there also: for therefore
came I forth.



(t) Villages which were like cities.
#BCV:Mark 1:40
<h3><verse=Mark 1:40>Mark 1:40</verse></h3>




(12) And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him,
If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.



(12) By healing the leprous he shows that he came for this reason: to wipe out the sins of the world
with his touch.
#BCV:Mark 1:44
<h3><verse=Mark 1:44>Mark 1:44</verse></h3>


<page=2485>(13) And saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man: but go thy way, shew thyself to the (u)
priest, and offer for thy cleansing those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.



(13) He shows that he was not motivated by ambition, but only by the desire for his Father's glory,
and by his love towards poor sinners.



(u) All the posterity of Aaron had the authority to judge a leper.

<h2>Mark 2</h2>

#BCV:Mark 2:1
<h3><verse=Mark 2:1>Mark 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2486>And (1) again he entered into Capernaum after [some] days; and it was noised that he was in the (a)
house.



(1) By healing this man who was sick from paralysis Christ shows that men recover all their lost
strength in him through faith alone.



(a) In the house where he used to remain: for he chose Capernaum to dwell in and left Nazareth.
#BCV:Mark 2:2
<h3><verse=Mark 2:2>Mark 2:2</verse></h3>



And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive [them],
no, not so much as (b) about the door: and he preached the word unto them.



(b) Neither the house nor the entry was able to hold them.
#BCV:Mark 2:4
<h3><verse=Mark 2:4>Mark 2:4</verse></h3>



And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was:
and when they had broken [it] up, they (c) let down the (d) bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay.



(c) They broke up the upper part of the house which was made simply, and let down the man that
was sick from paralysis into the lower part where Christ preached, for they could not come before
Christ in any other way.



(d) The word signifies the poorest kind of bed, upon which men used to lay down at noon, and at
such other times to refresh themselves; we call it a couch.
#BCV:Mark 2:6
<h3><verse=Mark 2:6>Mark 2:6</verse></h3>



But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and (e) reasoning in their hearts,



(e) In their minds disputing upon the matter, arguing both sides.
#BCV:Mark 2:12
<h3><verse=Mark 2:12>Mark 2:12</verse></h3>



And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went forth before them all; insomuch that they
were all (f) amazed, and glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.



(f) Literally, "past themselves", or "out of their wit".
#BCV:Mark 2:13
<h3><verse=Mark 2:13>Mark 2:13</verse></h3>

#BCV:mar 2:13
<h3><verse=mar 2:13>mar 2:13</verse></h3>



them.



(2) The gospel offends the proud and saves the humble.
#BCV:Mark 2:14
<h3><verse=Mark 2:14>Mark 2:14</verse></h3>



And as he passed by, he saw (g) Levi the [son] of Alphaeus sitting at the receipt of custom, and said
unto him, Follow me. And he arose and followed him.



(g) Matthew's other name.
#BCV:Mark 2:18
<h3><verse=Mark 2:18>Mark 2:18</verse></h3>




(3) And the disciples of John and of the Pharisees used to fast: and they come and say unto him,
Why do the disciples of John and of the Pharisees fast, but thy disciples fast not?



(3) The superstitious and hypocrites rashly put the sum of godliness in matters which do no matter,
and are reprehended for three reasons. First, by not considering what every man's strength is able to
bear, they rashly make all sorts of laws concerning such things, without any discretion.
#BCV:Mark 2:23
<h3><verse=Mark 2:23>Mark 2:23</verse></h3>




(4) And it came to pass, that he went through the corn fields on the (h) sabbath day; and his
disciples began, as they went, to pluck the ears of corn.



(4) Secondly, because they do not distinguish between the laws which God made concerning things,
and the laws that they made concerning the same things, which are not at all based on the law.



(h) Literally, "on the Sabbaths", that is, on the holy days.
#BCV:Mark 2:26
<h3><verse=Mark 2:26>Mark 2:26</verse></h3>



How he went into the house of God in the days of (i) Abiathar the high priest, and did eat the
shewbread, which is not lawful to eat but for the priests, and gave also to them which were with him?



(i) In (<bcv=I Sa 21:1>Sa1 21:1</bcv>) he is called Ahimelech and his son is called Abiathar, but by conferring other places
it is plain that both of them had two names; see (<bcv=1Ch 24:6>Ch1 24:6</bcv>; <bcv=2Sam 8:17>Sa2 8:17</bcv>; <bcv=2Sam 15:29>Sa2 15:29</bcv>; <bcv=1Kings 2:26>Kg1 2:26</bcv>; <bcv=2 Kings 25:18>Kg2 25:18</bcv>).

#BCV:Mark 2:28
<h3><verse=Mark 2:28>Mark 2:28</verse></h3>



Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the (k) sabbath.

<page=2488>(k) Has the sabbath day in his power, and may rule it as he desires.

<h2>Mark 3</h2>

#BCV:Mark 3:1
<h3><verse=Mark 3:1>Mark 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2489>And (1) he entered again into the synagogue; and there was a man there which had a (a) withered
hand.



(1) Thirdly, because they preferred the ceremonial law (which was but an addition to the moral law)
before the moral law, whereas in reality they should have learned from this the true use of the
ceremonial law.



(a) That is, unprofitable and dead.
#BCV:Mark 3:4
<h3><verse=Mark 3:4>Mark 3:4</verse></h3>



And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath days, or to do evil? to save (b) life, or
to kill? But they held their peace.



(b) He uses here the figure of speech called synecdoche, for this type of saying, "to save the life", is
the same as saying "to save the man".
#BCV:Mark 3:5
<h3><verse=Mark 3:5>Mark 3:5</verse></h3>



And when he had looked round about on them (c) with anger, being grieved for the (d) hardness of
their hearts, he saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched [it] out: and his hand
was restored whole as the other.



(c) Men are angry when they have wrong done to them, but not without sin: but Christ is angry
without sin, and he is not sorry for the injury that is done to him as much as he is for their
wickedness; and therefore he had pity upon them, and because of that he is said to have been
grieved.



(d) As though their heart had been closed up and had grown together, so that wholesome doctrine
had no effect upon them.
#BCV:Mark 3:6
<h3><verse=Mark 3:6>Mark 3:6</verse></h3>




(2) And the Pharisees went forth, and straightway took counsel with the (e) Herodians against him,
how they might destroy him.



(2) The more the truth is suppressed, the more it comes out.



(e) See (<bcv=Mat 22:16>Mat 22:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Mark 3:8
<h3><verse=Mark 3:8>Mark 3:8</verse></h3>

#BCV:mar 3:8
<h3><verse=mar 3:8>mar 3:8</verse></h3>



Sidon, a great multitude, when they had heard what great things he did, came unto him.



(f) Which Josephus called stony or rocky.
#BCV:Mark 3:9
<h3><verse=Mark 3:9>Mark 3:9</verse></h3>



And he spake to his disciples, that a small ship should (g) wait on him because of the multitude, lest
they should throng him.



(g) Should always be ready for him.
#BCV:Mark 3:10
<h3><verse=Mark 3:10>Mark 3:10</verse></h3>



For he had healed many; insomuch that they pressed upon him for to touch him, as many as had (h)
plagues.



(h) Diseases with which God scourges men as it were with whips.
#BCV:Mark 3:11
<h3><verse=Mark 3:11>Mark 3:11</verse></h3>



And (i) unclean spirits, when they saw him, fell down before him, and cried, saying, Thou art the
Son of God.



(i) In those whom they had entered into: or by the figure of speech called metonymy, it refers to
those who were vexed with the unclean spirits.
#BCV:Mark 3:14
<h3><verse=Mark 3:14>Mark 3:14</verse></h3>




(3) And he (k) ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to
preach,



(3) The twelve apostles are set apart to be trained for the office of the apostleship.



(k) Chose and appointed twelve to be familiar and well acquainted with him.
#BCV:Mark 3:18
<h3><verse=Mark 3:18>Mark 3:18</verse></h3>



And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and James the [son] of
Alphaeus, and (l) Thaddaeus, and Simon the Canaanite,



(l) Whom Luke also calls Judas: and to make a distinction the other Judas is called Iscariot.
#BCV:Mark 3:19
<h3><verse=Mark 3:19>Mark 3:19</verse></h3>

#BCV:mar 3:19
<h3><verse=mar 3:19>mar 3:19</verse></h3>




(m) The disciples whom Christ had taken as part of his company and to live with him come home
to his house, to be with him from this point on.
#BCV:Mark 3:21
<h3><verse=Mark 3:21>Mark 3:21</verse></h3>




(4) And when his (n) friends heard [of it], they went out to lay hold on him: for they said, He is
beside himself.



(4) None are worse enemies of the gospel than they that should be enemies of it the least.



(n) Literally, "they that were of him", that is, his relatives: for they that were mad were brought to
their relatives.
#BCV:Mark 3:26
<h3><verse=Mark 3:26>Mark 3:26</verse></h3>



And if (o) Satan rise up against himself, and be divided, he cannot stand, but hath an end.



(o) Satan's servants or followers.
#BCV:Mark 3:28
<h3><verse=Mark 3:28>Mark 3:28</verse></h3>




(5) Verily I say unto you, All sins shall be forgiven unto the sons of men, and blasphemies
wherewith soever they shall blaspheme:



(5) Only those who know Christ and maliciously attack him are without hope of salvation.
#BCV:Mark 3:30
<h3><verse=Mark 3:30>Mark 3:30</verse></h3>




(p) Because they said, He hath an unclean spirit.



(p) These are the words of the evangelist.
#BCV:Mark 3:31
<h3><verse=Mark 3:31>Mark 3:31</verse></h3>



There came then his (q) brethren and his mother, and, standing without, sent unto him, calling him.



(q) By the name "brother" the Hebrews understand all that are of the same stock and blood.
#BCV:Mark 3:34
<h3><verse=Mark 3:34>Mark 3:34</verse></h3>


<page=2492>(6) And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my
brethren!



(6) The spiritual family is larger than the biological family.

<h2>Mark 4</h2>

#BCV:Mark 4:1
<h3><verse=Mark 4:1>Mark 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=2493>And he began again to teach by the (a) sea side: and there was gathered unto him a great multitude,
so that he entered into a ship, and sat (b) in the sea; and the whole multitude was by the sea on the
land.



(a) Seaside of Tiberias.



(b) In a ship which was launched into the sea.
#BCV:Mark 4:3
<h3><verse=Mark 4:3>Mark 4:3</verse></h3>




(1) Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow:



(1) The same doctrine of the Gospel is sown everywhere, but it it does not have the same success
indeed because of the fault of man, but yet by the just judgment of God.
#BCV:Mark 4:10
<h3><verse=Mark 4:10>Mark 4:10</verse></h3>



And when he was (c) alone, they that were (d) about him with the twelve asked of him the parable.



(c) Literally, "solitary".



(d) They that followed him at his heels.
#BCV:Mark 4:11
<h3><verse=Mark 4:11>Mark 4:11</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto
them that are (e) without, all [these] things are done in parables:



(e) That is to say, to strangers, and such ones as are not of us.
#BCV:Mark 4:19
<h3><verse=Mark 4:19>Mark 4:19</verse></h3>



And the cares (f) of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering
in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.



(f) Which pertain to this life.
#BCV:Mark 4:21
<h3><verse=Mark 4:21>Mark 4:21</verse></h3>




(2) And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put under a bushel, or under a bed? and not to
be set on a candlestick?

<page=2494>(2) Although the light of the gospel is rejected by the world, yet it ought to be lit, if for no other
reason than this, that the wickedness of the world might be revealed.
#BCV:Mark 4:24
<h3><verse=Mark 4:24>Mark 4:24</verse></h3>




(3) And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear: with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured
to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given.



(3) The more liberally that we share such gifts as God has given us with our brethren, the more
bountiful God will be toward us.
#BCV:Mark 4:26
<h3><verse=Mark 4:26>Mark 4:26</verse></h3>




(4) And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground;



(4) The Lord sows and reaps in a manner unknown to men.
#BCV:Mark 4:27
<h3><verse=Mark 4:27>Mark 4:27</verse></h3>



And (g) should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he (h)
knoweth not how.



(g) That is, when he has finished sowing should wait both day and night not doubting that the seed
should spring forth, which grows both by day and night.



(h) It is the duty of the ministers to work the ground with all diligence, and accredit the success to
God: for the mighty work of the seed coming to blade and ear is mysterious, and is only known by
the fruit that comes.
#BCV:Mark 4:28
<h3><verse=Mark 4:28>Mark 4:28</verse></h3>



For the earth bringeth forth fruit (i) of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in
the ear.



(i) By a certain power which moves itself.
#BCV:Mark 4:30
<h3><verse=Mark 4:30>Mark 4:30</verse></h3>




(5) And he said, Whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we
compare it?



(5) God uses a method that men never do, beginning with the least and ending with the greatest.
#BCV:Mark 4:33
<h3><verse=Mark 4:33>Mark 4:33</verse></h3>

#BCV:mar 4:33
<h3><verse=mar 4:33>mar 4:33</verse></h3>




(k) According to the ability of the hearers.
#BCV:Mark 4:34
<h3><verse=Mark 4:34>Mark 4:34</verse></h3>



But without a parable spake he not unto them: and when they were alone, he (l) expounded all
things to his disciples.



(l) Literally, "loosed", as you would say, explained to them the hard riddles.
#BCV:Mark 4:37
<h3><verse=Mark 4:37>Mark 4:37</verse></h3>




(6) And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full.



(6) They that sail with Christ, although he seems to sleep ever so soundly when they are in danger,
yet they are preserved by him in due time, being awakened.
#BCV:Mark 4:40
<h3><verse=Mark 4:40>Mark 4:40</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, (m) Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?



(m) How does it come to pass that you have no faith?

<h2>Mark 5</h2>

#BCV:Mark 5:1
<h3><verse=Mark 5:1>Mark 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=2496>And (1) they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the (a) Gadarenes.



(1) Many hold the virtue of Christ in admiration, and yet they will not lose even the least thing they
have in order to redeem it.



(a) See<bcv=Mat 8:30> Mat 8:30</bcv>
#BCV:Mark 5:2
<h3><verse=Mark 5:2>Mark 5:2</verse></h3>



And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man (b) with
an unclean spirit,



(b) Literally, "in an unclean spirit"; now they are said to be in the spirit because the spirit holds them
tightly locked up, and as it were bound.
#BCV:Mark 5:7
<h3><verse=Mark 5:7>Mark 5:7</verse></h3>



And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, [thou] Son of the most
high God? I (c) adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not.



(c) That is, assure me by an oath that you will not vex me.
#BCV:Mark 5:10
<h3><verse=Mark 5:10>Mark 5:10</verse></h3>



And he (d) besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country.



(d) The demon that was the spokesperson of the many.
#BCV:Mark 5:11
<h3><verse=Mark 5:11>Mark 5:11</verse></h3>



Now there was there nigh unto the (e) mountains a great herd of swine feeding.



(e) This whole country is for the most part very hilly, for the mountains of Galeed run through it.
#BCV:Mark 5:13
<h3><verse=Mark 5:13>Mark 5:13</verse></h3>



And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine:
and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the (f) sea, (they were about two thousand;) and
were choked in the sea.

<page=2497>(f) Strabo in the sixteenth book says that in Gadaris there is a standing pool of very polluted water,
which if beasts taste, they shed their hair, nails, or hooves and horns.
#BCV:Mark 5:22
<h3><verse=Mark 5:22>Mark 5:22</verse></h3>



And, (g) behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw
him, he fell at his feet,



(g) The whole company did not assemble without any structure, but in every synagogue there were
certain men who governed the people.
#BCV:Mark 5:25
<h3><verse=Mark 5:25>Mark 5:25</verse></h3>




(2) And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years,



(2) Jesus being touched with true faith, although it is but weak, heals us by his virtue.
#BCV:Mark 5:36
<h3><verse=Mark 5:36>Mark 5:36</verse></h3>




(3) As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be
not afraid, only believe.



(3) By faith fathers apprehended the promises of life even for their children.
#BCV:Mark 5:40
<h3><verse=Mark 5:40>Mark 5:40</verse></h3>




(4) And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put them all out, he taketh the father and the
mother of the damsel, and them (b) that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel was lying.



(4) Such as mock and scorn Christ are unworthy to be witnesses of his goodness.



(b) The three disciples.

<h2>Mark 6</h2>

#BCV:Mark 6:1
<h3><verse=Mark 6:1>Mark 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=2498>And (1) he went out from thence, and came into his own country; and his disciples follow him.



(1) The faithless world by no means diminishes the virtue of Christ, but knowingly and willingly it
deprives itself of the efficacy of it being offered unto them.
#BCV:Mark 6:2
<h3><verse=Mark 6:2>Mark 6:2</verse></h3>



And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue: and many hearing [him]
were astonished, saying, From whence hath this [man] these things? and what wisdom [is] this which
is given unto him, that even such (a) mighty works are wrought by his hands?



(a) The word signifies powers or virtues, by which are meant those wonderful works that Christ did
which showed and set forth the virtue and power of his Godhead to all the world; (<bcv=Mat 7:22>Mat 7:22</bcv>).
#BCV:Mark 6:3
<h3><verse=Mark 6:3>Mark 6:3</verse></h3>



Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon?
and are not his (b) sisters here with us? And they were offended at him.



(b) This word is used after the manner of the Hebrews, who by brethren and sisters understand all
relatives.
#BCV:Mark 6:4
<h3><verse=Mark 6:4>Mark 6:4</verse></h3>



But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without (c) honour, but in his own country, and among
his own kin, and in his own house.



(c) Not only has that honour taken from him which is rightly due to him, but also has evil spoken of
him and his words are misrepresented.
#BCV:Mark 6:5
<h3><verse=Mark 6:5>Mark 6:5</verse></h3>



And he (d) could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands upon a few sick folk, and
healed [them].



(d) That is, he would not: for we need to have faith if we are going to receive the works of God.
#BCV:Mark 6:7
<h3><verse=Mark 6:7>Mark 6:7</verse></h3>


<page=2499>(2) And he called [unto him] the twelve, and began to send them forth by two and two; and gave
them power over unclean spirits;



(2) The disciples are prepared for that general apostleship by a special sending forth.
#BCV:Mark 6:8
<h3><verse=Mark 6:8>Mark 6:8</verse></h3>




(3) And commanded them that they should take nothing for [their] journey, save a staff only; no
scrip, no bread, no money in [their] purse:



(3) Faithful pastors should not have their minds set even on things that are necessary for this life, if
they might be a hindrance unto them, even if it is just a small hindrance.
#BCV:Mark 6:9
<h3><verse=Mark 6:9>Mark 6:9</verse></h3>



But [be] shod with (e) sandals; and not put on (f) two coats.



(e) The word properly signifies women's shoes.



(f) That is they should take no change of garments with them, so that they might be lighter for this
journey and travel more quickly.
#BCV:Mark 6:10
<h3><verse=Mark 6:10>Mark 6:10</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, In what place soever ye enter into an house, (g) there abide till ye depart
from that place.



(g) That is, do not change your inns in this short journey.
#BCV:Mark 6:11
<h3><verse=Mark 6:11>Mark 6:11</verse></h3>




(4) And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust
under your feet for a testimony against them. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for
Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment, than for that city.



(4) The Lord severely avenges evil done to his servants.
#BCV:Mark 6:13
<h3><verse=Mark 6:13>Mark 6:13</verse></h3>



And they cast out many devils, and (h) anointed with oil many that were sick, and healed [them].



(h) This oil was a token and a sign of his marvellous virtue: and seeing that the gift of healing has
stopped a good while since, the ceremony of anointing which is yet carried on by some is of no
purpose.
#BCV:Mark 6:14
<h3><verse=Mark 6:14>Mark 6:14</verse></h3>


<page=2500>(5) And king Herod heard [of him]; (for his name was spread abroad:) and he said, That John the
Baptist was risen from the dead, and therefore mighty (i) works do shew forth themselves in him.



(5) The gospel confirms the godly and vexes the wicked.



(i) The word signifies powers, by which is meant the power of working miracles.
#BCV:Mark 6:15
<h3><verse=Mark 6:15>Mark 6:15</verse></h3>



Others said, That it is Elias. And others said, That it is a prophet, or as one of (k) the prophets.



(k) Of the old prophets.
#BCV:Mark 6:16
<h3><verse=Mark 6:16>Mark 6:16</verse></h3>



But when Herod heard [thereof], he said, It is John, whom I (l) beheaded: he is risen from the dead.



(l) Commanded to be beheaded.
#BCV:Mark 6:19
<h3><verse=Mark 6:19>Mark 6:19</verse></h3>



Therefore Herodias (m) had a quarrel against him, and would have killed him; but she could not:



(m) Sought all means to hurt him.
#BCV:Mark 6:20
<h3><verse=Mark 6:20>Mark 6:20</verse></h3>



For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and an holy, and observed him; and when
he heard him, he did many things, and heard him (n) gladly.



(n) The tyrant was very well content to hear sentence pronounced against himself, but the seed fell
upon stony places.
#BCV:Mark 6:22
<h3><verse=Mark 6:22>Mark 6:22</verse></h3>



And when the daughter (o) of the said Herodias came in, and danced, and pleased Herod and them
that sat with him, the king said unto the damsel, Ask of me whatsoever thou wilt, and I will give [it]
thee.



(o) This same Herodias had the daughter by Philip, not by Herod Antipas, and Josephus called the
daughter Salome.
#BCV:Mark 6:24
<h3><verse=Mark 6:24>Mark 6:24</verse></h3>

#BCV:mar 6:24
<h3><verse=mar 6:24>mar 6:24</verse></h3>



the Baptist.



(p) For women did not used to eat with men.
#BCV:Mark 6:27
<h3><verse=Mark 6:27>Mark 6:27</verse></h3>



And immediately the king sent an (q) executioner, and commanded his head to be brought: and he
went and beheaded him in the prison,



(q) The word signifies one that bears a short lance, and the king's guard was so called because they
bore short lances.
#BCV:Mark 6:31
<h3><verse=Mark 6:31>Mark 6:31</verse></h3>




(6) And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there
were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat.



(6) Such as follow Christ will lack nothing, not even in the wilderness, but they will have an
abundance. And how wicked a thing it is not to look during this temporal life to the hands of the
one who gives everlasting life!
#BCV:Mark 6:37
<h3><verse=Mark 6:37>Mark 6:37</verse></h3>



He answered and said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they say unto him, (r) Shall we go and
buy (s) two hundred pennyworth of bread, and give them to eat?



(r) This is a kind of demand and wondering, with a subtle mockery, which men commonly use when
they begin to get angry and refuse to do something.



(s) Which is about twenty crowns, which is five pounds.
#BCV:Mark 6:39
<h3><verse=Mark 6:39>Mark 6:39</verse></h3>



And he commanded them to make all sit down by (t) companies upon the green grass.



(t) Literally, "by banquets", after the manner of the Hebrews who have no distributive words; see



(<bcv=Mar 6:7>Mar 6:7</bcv>). Now he calls the rows of the sitters, "banquets".
#BCV:Mark 6:40
<h3><verse=Mark 6:40>Mark 6:40</verse></h3>



And they sat down in (u) ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties.

<page=2502>(u) The word signifies the beds in a garden, and it is literally, "by beds and beds", meaning by this
that they sat down in rows one by another, as beds in a garden.
#BCV:Mark 6:45
<h3><verse=Mark 6:45>Mark 6:45</verse></h3>




(7) And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side
before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people.



(7) The faithful servants of God after their little labour are subject to a great tempest which Christ,
being present in power although absent in body, moderates in such a way that he brings them to a
happy haven, at such time and by such means as they did not expect: A graphic image of the Church
tossed to and fro in this world.
#BCV:Mark 6:46
<h3><verse=Mark 6:46>Mark 6:46</verse></h3>



And when he had sent (x) them away, he departed into a mountain to pray.



(x) His disciples.
#BCV:Mark 6:51
<h3><verse=Mark 6:51>Mark 6:51</verse></h3>



And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were (y) sore amazed in
themselves beyond measure, and wondered.



(y) They were still so amazed when they knew that it was no spirit, that they were much more
astonished than they ever were before, when they saw the wind and the sea obey his commandment.
#BCV:Mark 6:52
<h3><verse=Mark 6:52>Mark 6:52</verse></h3>



For they (z) considered not [the miracle] of the loaves: for their heart was hardened.



(z) Either they did not perceive, or had not well considered that miracle of the five loaves, to the
point that the virtue of Christ was just as strange to them as if they had not been present at that
miracle which was done just a little before.
#BCV:Mark 6:54
<h3><verse=Mark 6:54>Mark 6:54</verse></h3>




(8) And when they were come out of the ship, straightway they knew him,



(8) Christ being rejected in his own country, and suddenly arriving to those who had not looked for
him, is received to their great profit.
#BCV:Mark 6:56
<h3><verse=Mark 6:56>Mark 6:56</verse></h3>

<page=2503>And whithersoever he entered, into villages, or cities, or country, they laid the sick in the streets, and
besought him that they might touch if it were but the border of his garment: and as many as
touched (a) him were made whole.



(a) Or the hem of his garment.

<h2>Mark 7</h2>

#BCV:Mark 7:1
<h3><verse=Mark 7:1>Mark 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=2504>Then (1) came together unto him the Pharisees, and certain of the scribes, which came from
Jerusalem.



(1) None resist the wisdom of God more than they that should be wisest, and they resist because of
their zeal for their own traditions: for men please themselves in superstition more than in any other
thing, that is to say, in a worship of God fondly devised by themselves.
#BCV:Mark 7:2
<h3><verse=Mark 7:2>Mark 7:2</verse></h3>



And when they saw some of his disciples (a) eat bread with (b) defiled, that is to say, with unwashen,
hands, they found fault.



(a) Literally, "eat bread": an idiom which the Hebrews use, understanding bread to represent every
type of food.



(b) For the Pharisees would not eat their food with unwashed hands, because they thought that their
hands were defiled with the common handling of things; (<bcv=Mat 15:11-12>Mat 15:11-12</bcv>).
#BCV:Mark 7:3
<h3><verse=Mark 7:3>Mark 7:3</verse></h3>



For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash [their] hands oft, eat not, (c) holding the
tradition of the elders.



(c) Observing diligently.
#BCV:Mark 7:4
<h3><verse=Mark 7:4>Mark 7:4</verse></h3>



And [when they come] from the (d) market, except they wash, they eat not. And many other things
there be, which they have received to hold, [as] the washing of cups, and (e) pots, brasen vessels, and
of tables.



(d) That is to say, after coming from civil and worldly affairs they do not eat unless they first wash
themselves.



(e) By these words are understood all types of vessels which we use daily.
#BCV:Mark 7:5
<h3><verse=Mark 7:5>Mark 7:5</verse></h3>



Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why (f) walk not thy disciples according to the tradition
of the elders, but eat bread with unwashen hands?

<page=2505>(f) Why live they not? This is a Hebrew idiom: for among them the "way" is taken for "lifestyle".
#BCV:Mark 7:6
<h3><verse=Mark 7:6>Mark 7:6</verse></h3>




(2) He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written,
This people honoureth me with [their] lips, but their heart is far from me.



(2) Hypocrisy is always joined with superstition.
#BCV:Mark 7:7
<h3><verse=Mark 7:7>Mark 7:7</verse></h3>




(3) Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching [for] doctrines the commandments of men.



(3) The more earnest the superstitious are, the more mad they are in promising themselves God's
favour because of their deeds.
#BCV:Mark 7:8
<h3><verse=Mark 7:8>Mark 7:8</verse></h3>




(4) For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men, [as] the washing of
pots and cups: and many other such like things ye do.



(4) The deeds of superstitious men not only do not fulfil the law of God (as they blasphemously
persuaded themselves) but these deeds utterly take away God's law.
#BCV:Mark 7:9
<h3><verse=Mark 7:9>Mark 7:9</verse></h3>




(5) And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your
own tradition.



(5) True religion, which is completely contrary to superstition, consists in spiritual worship: and all
enemies of true religion, although they seem to have taken deep root, will be plucked up.
#BCV:Mark 7:10
<h3><verse=Mark 7:10>Mark 7:10</verse></h3>



For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother; and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him (g)
die the death:



(g) Without hope of pardon, he will be put to death.
#BCV:Mark 7:19
<h3><verse=Mark 7:19>Mark 7:19</verse></h3>



Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, (h) purging
all meats?

<page=2506>(h) For that which goes into the draught purges all meats.
#BCV:Mark 7:22
<h3><verse=Mark 7:22>Mark 7:22</verse></h3>



Thefts, (i) covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an (k) evil eye, blasphemy, pride,
foolishness:



(i) All types of craftiness by which men profit themselves at other men's losses.



(k) Corrupted malice.
#BCV:Mark 7:24
<h3><verse=Mark 7:24>Mark 7:24</verse></h3>




(6) And from thence he arose, and went into the (l) borders of Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an
house, and would have no man know [it]: but he could not be hid.



(6) That which the proud reject when it is offered to them, that same thing the modest and humble
sinners as it were voraciously consume.



(l) Into the uttermost coasts of Palestine, which were next to Tyre and Sidon.
#BCV:Mark 7:26
<h3><verse=Mark 7:26>Mark 7:26</verse></h3>



The woman was a (m) Greek, a (n) Syrophenician by nation; and she besought him that he would
cast forth the devil out of her daughter.



(m) By nationality, profane.



(n) A neighbour of or near to Damascus.
#BCV:Mark 7:27
<h3><verse=Mark 7:27>Mark 7:27</verse></h3>



But Jesus said unto her, Let the children first be filled: for it is not meet to take the children's bread,
and to cast [it] unto the (o) dogs.



(o) "Dog" here signifies a little dog, and he uses this term that he may seem to speak more
reproachfully.
#BCV:Mark 7:28
<h3><verse=Mark 7:28>Mark 7:28</verse></h3>



And she answered and said unto him, (p) Yes, Lord: yet the dogs under the table eat of the
children's crumbs.



(p) As if she said, "It is as thou sayest Lord, for it is enough for the dogs if they can but gather up
the crumbs that are under the table; therefore I crave the crumbs and not the children's bread."
#BCV:Mark 7:31
<h3><verse=Mark 7:31>Mark 7:31</verse></h3>


<page=2507>(7) And again, departing from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, he came unto the sea of Galilee,
through the midst of the coasts of (q) Decapolis.



(7) As the Father created us to this life in the beginning in his only son, so does he also in him alone
renew us into everlasting life.



(q) It was a little country, and it was so called because it consisted of ten cities under the jurisdiction
of four surrounding governments; Pliny, book 3, chap. 8.

<h2>Mark 8</h2>

#BCV:Mark 8:3
<h3><verse=Mark 8:3>Mark 8:3</verse></h3>

<page=2508>And if I send them away fasting to their own houses, they will (a) faint by the way: for divers of
them came from far.



(a) Literally, "they will fall apart", or "be dissolved", for when men faint they tear their muscles.
#BCV:Mark 8:11
<h3><verse=Mark 8:11>Mark 8:11</verse></h3>




(1) And the Pharisees (b) came forth, and began to question with him, seeking of him a sign from
heaven, tempting him.



(1) The stubborn enemies of the doctrine of the Gospel, giving no credit to the miracles already
done, require new ones: but Christ, being angry with them, utterly forsakes them.



(b) A common saying which the Hebrews use, by which is meant that the Pharisees went from their
houses to purposely engage him.
#BCV:Mark 8:12
<h3><verse=Mark 8:12>Mark 8:12</verse></h3>



And he (c) sighed deeply in his spirit, and saith, Why doth this generation seek after a sign? verily I
say unto you, (d) There shall no sign be given unto this generation.



(c) These sighs came from the centre of his heart for the Lord was very much moved with the great
unbelief of these men.



(d) Literally, "If a sign be given". It is an abbreviated kind of speech very common among the
Hebrews; it is the same as when we say, "Let me be taken for a liar", or something similar. And when
they speak out the whole, they say, "The Lord do such and such by me."
#BCV:Mark 8:15
<h3><verse=Mark 8:15>Mark 8:15</verse></h3>




(2) And he charged them, saying, Take heed, beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, and [of] the
leaven of Herod.



(2) We must especially take heed of those who corrupt the word of God, no matter what their
position is in the Church or in civil politics.
#BCV:Mark 8:16
<h3><verse=Mark 8:16>Mark 8:16</verse></h3>




(3) And they reasoned among themselves, saying, [It is] because we have no bread.

<page=2509>(3) They that have their minds fixed on earthly things are utterly blinded to heavenly things, even
though they are plainly set before them.
#BCV:Mark 8:21
<h3><verse=Mark 8:21>Mark 8:21</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, (c) How is it that ye do not understand?



(c) How does it come to pass that you do not understand these things which are so plain and evident.
#BCV:Mark 8:22
<h3><verse=Mark 8:22>Mark 8:22</verse></h3>




(4) And he cometh to Bethsaida; and they bring a blind man unto him, and besought him to touch
him.



(4) A true image of our regeneration, which Christ, separating us from the world, works and
accomplishes in us gradually.
#BCV:Mark 8:24
<h3><verse=Mark 8:24>Mark 8:24</verse></h3>



And he looked up, and said, I (f) see men as trees, walking.



(f) He perceived men moving but at the same time could not discern their bodies.
#BCV:Mark 8:25
<h3><verse=Mark 8:25>Mark 8:25</verse></h3>



After that he put [his] hands again upon his eyes, and made him (g) look up: and he was restored,
and saw every man clearly.



(g) He commanded him to try again, to determine whether or not he could indeed see well.
#BCV:Mark 8:26
<h3><verse=Mark 8:26>Mark 8:26</verse></h3>




(5) And he sent him away to his house, saying, Neither go into the town, nor tell [it] to any in the
town.



(5) Christ will not have his miracles to be separated from his doctrine.
#BCV:Mark 8:27
<h3><verse=Mark 8:27>Mark 8:27</verse></h3>




(6) And Jesus went out, and his disciples, into the towns of Caesarea Philippi: and by the way he
asked his disciples, saying unto them, Whom do men say that I am?



(6) Many praise Christ, who yet nonetheless rob him of his praise.
#BCV:Mark 8:30
<h3><verse=Mark 8:30>Mark 8:30</verse></h3>

#BCV:mar 8:30
<h3><verse=mar 8:30>mar 8:30</verse></h3>




(7) Christ has appointed certain times for the preaching of the gospel, and therefore here defers it to
a more appropriate time, lest sudden haste should rather hinder than further the mystery of his
coming.
#BCV:Mark 8:31
<h3><verse=Mark 8:31>Mark 8:31</verse></h3>




(8) And he began to teach them, that the Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of
the elders, and [of] the chief priests, and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.



(8) All that Christ suffered for us he suffered not unwillingly, neither as being unaware, but
foreknowing it and willingly.
#BCV:Mark 8:32
<h3><verse=Mark 8:32>Mark 8:32</verse></h3>




(9) And he spake that saying openly. And Peter took him, and began to rebuke him.



(9) None are more mad than they that are wise without the word of God.
#BCV:Mark 8:33
<h3><verse=Mark 8:33>Mark 8:33</verse></h3>



But when he had turned about and looked on his disciples, he rebuked Peter, saying, Get thee
behind me, Satan: for thou (h) savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that be of
men.



(h) This is not godly, but worldly wisdom.
#BCV:Mark 8:34
<h3><verse=Mark 8:34>Mark 8:34</verse></h3>




(10) And when he had called the people [unto him] with his disciples also, he said unto them,
Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.



(10) The disciples of Christ must bear bravely whatever burden the Lord lays upon them, and
subdue the desires of the flesh.
#BCV:Mark 8:36
<h3><verse=Mark 8:36>Mark 8:36</verse></h3>




(11) For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?



(11) They are the most foolish of all men who purchase the pleasures of this life with the loss of
everlasting bliss.

<h2>Mark 9</h2>

#BCV:Mark 9:1
<h3><verse=Mark 9:1>Mark 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=2511>And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That there be some of them that stand here, which
shall not taste of death, till they have seen the (a) kingdom of God come with power.



(a) When he will begin his kingdom through the preaching of the gospel: that is to say, after the
resurrection.
#BCV:Mark 9:2
<h3><verse=Mark 9:2>Mark 9:2</verse></h3>




(1) And after six days Jesus taketh [with him] Peter, and James, and John, and leadeth them up into
an high mountain apart by themselves: and he was transfigured before them.



(1) The heavenly glory of Christ, which would within a short time be abased upon the cross, is
confirmed by visible signs, by the presence and talk of Elias and Moses, and by the voice of the
Father himself; all this occurred before three of his disciples, who are witnesses against whom there
is no objection.
#BCV:Mark 9:3
<h3><verse=Mark 9:3>Mark 9:3</verse></h3>



And his raiment (b) became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth can white
them.



(b) Did sparkle as it were.
#BCV:Mark 9:6
<h3><verse=Mark 9:6>Mark 9:6</verse></h3>



For he wist not what to say; for they were sore (c) afraid.



(c) They were beside themselves with fear.
#BCV:Mark 9:9
<h3><verse=Mark 9:9>Mark 9:9</verse></h3>




(2) And as they came down from the mountain, he charged them that they should tell no man what
things they had seen, till the Son of man were risen from the dead.



(2) The Lord has appointed certain times for the publishing of the gospel.
#BCV:Mark 9:10
<h3><verse=Mark 9:10>Mark 9:10</verse></h3>



And they (d) kept that saying with themselves, (e) questioning one with another what the rising from
the dead should mean.

<page=2512>(d) Though just barely as it were.



(e) They did not question together concerning the general resurrection, which will be in the latter
day, but they did not understand what he meant when he spoke of his own special resurrection.
#BCV:Mark 9:11
<h3><verse=Mark 9:11>Mark 9:11</verse></h3>




(3) And they asked him, saying, Why say the scribes that Elias must first come?



(3) The foolish opinion of the rabbis concerning Elias' coming is refuted here, which was that either
Elias should rise again from the dead, or that his soul would enter into some other body.
#BCV:Mark 9:14
<h3><verse=Mark 9:14>Mark 9:14</verse></h3>




(4) And when he came to [his] disciples, he saw a great multitude about them, and the scribes
questioning with them.



(4) Christ shows by a miracle, even to the unworthy, that he has come to restrain the wrath of Satan.
#BCV:Mark 9:18
<h3><verse=Mark 9:18>Mark 9:18</verse></h3>



And wheresoever he taketh him, he (f) teareth him: and he foameth, and gnasheth with his teeth,
and pineth away: and I spake to thy disciples that they should cast him out; and they could not.



(f) Vexes him inwardly, as the colic does.
#BCV:Mark 9:20
<h3><verse=Mark 9:20>Mark 9:20</verse></h3>



And they brought him unto him: and when he (g) saw him, straightway the spirit tare him; and he
fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming.



(g) As soon as Jesus had looked upon the boy that was brought to him, the demon began to rage in
this way.
#BCV:Mark 9:23
<h3><verse=Mark 9:23>Mark 9:23</verse></h3>



Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, (h) all things [are] possible to him that believeth.



(h) Christ can and will do anything for those that believe in him.
#BCV:Mark 9:26
<h3><verse=Mark 9:26>Mark 9:26</verse></h3>




(5) And [the spirit] cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him: and he was as one dead;
insomuch that many said, He is dead.

<page=2513>(5) The nearer that the virtue of Christ is the far greater Satan rages.
#BCV:Mark 9:28
<h3><verse=Mark 9:28>Mark 9:28</verse></h3>




(6) And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast
him out?



(6) We have need of faith, and therefore of prayer and fasting, in order to cast Satan out of that
which belonged to him.
#BCV:Mark 9:30
<h3><verse=Mark 9:30>Mark 9:30</verse></h3>



And they departed thence, and (i) passed through Galilee; and he would not that any man should
know [it].



(i) He and his disciples together.
#BCV:Mark 9:31
<h3><verse=Mark 9:31>Mark 9:31</verse></h3>




(7) For he taught his disciples, and said unto them, The Son of man is delivered into the hands of
men, and they shall kill him; and after that he is killed, he shall rise the third day.



(7) Christ forewarns us with great diligence so that we should not be discouraged with sudden
calamities; but man's slowness to understand is great.
#BCV:Mark 9:33
<h3><verse=Mark 9:33>Mark 9:33</verse></h3>




(8) And he came to Capernaum: and being in the (k) house he asked them, What was it that ye
disputed among yourselves by the way?



(8) Only humility exalts.



(k) Where he was accustomed to make his home.
#BCV:Mark 9:37
<h3><verse=Mark 9:37>Mark 9:37</verse></h3>



Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive
me, receiveth not (l) me, but him that sent me.



(l) He not only receives me, but also him that sent me.
#BCV:Mark 9:38
<h3><verse=Mark 9:38>Mark 9:38</verse></h3>


<page=2514>(9) And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he
followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us.



(9) God, who normally works through ordinary means, works also extraordinarily as often as it
pleases him. But an extraordinary means is tested by the doctrine and the effects.
#BCV:Mark 9:42
<h3><verse=Mark 9:42>Mark 9:42</verse></h3>




(10) And whosoever shall offend one of [these] little ones that believe in me, it is better for him that
a millstone were hanged about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.



(10) God is such a severe avenger of offences that it is better to suffer anything else than to be an
occasion of offence to any.
#BCV:Mark 9:44
<h3><verse=Mark 9:44>Mark 9:44</verse></h3>



Where their (m) worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.



(m) Their worm who will be cast into that flame.
#BCV:Mark 9:49
<h3><verse=Mark 9:49>Mark 9:49</verse></h3>




(11) For every one shall be (n) salted with fire, and every sacrifice shall be salted with salt.



(11) We must be seasoned and sprinkled by God, so that we may be both acceptable sacrifices unto
him, and also so that in our being knit together we may season one another.



(n) That is, will be consecrated to God, being seasoned with the incorruptible word.

<h2>Mark 10</h2>

#BCV:Mark 10:1
<h3><verse=Mark 10:1>Mark 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=2515>And he (a) arose from thence, and cometh into the coasts of Judaea by the farther side of Jordan:
and the people resort unto him again; and, as he was wont, he taught them again.



(a) That is to say, departed and went from there: for in the Hebrew language sitting and dwelling are
the same thing, and so are rising and going forth.
#BCV:Mark 10:5
<h3><verse=Mark 10:5>Mark 10:5</verse></h3>




(1) And Jesus answered and said unto them, For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this (b)
precept.



(1) God never allowed those divorces which the law tolerated.



(b) See (<bcv=Mat 19:3-12>Mat 19:3-12</bcv>). For Moses gave them no commandment to put away their wives, but rather
made a good stipulation for the wives to protect them from the stubborn hardness of their
husbands.
#BCV:Mark 10:11
<h3><verse=Mark 10:11>Mark 10:11</verse></h3>



And he saith unto them, Whosoever shall put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery



(c) against her.



(c) Whom he puts away, for he is an adulterer by keeping company with another.
#BCV:Mark 10:13
<h3><verse=Mark 10:13>Mark 10:13</verse></h3>




(2) And they brought young children to him, that he should touch them: and [his] disciples rebuked
those that brought [them].



(2) God in his goodness is concerned not only for the parents, but the children as well: and therefore
he blesses them. (Ed.)
#BCV:Mark 10:15
<h3><verse=Mark 10:15>Mark 10:15</verse></h3>



Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God (3) as a little child, he shall
not enter therein.



(3) In our malice we must become as children if we will enter into the kingdom of heaven.
#BCV:Mark 10:17
<h3><verse=Mark 10:17>Mark 10:17</verse></h3>


<page=2516>(4) And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and
asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?



(4) Two things are to be greatly avoided by those who earnestly seek eternal life: the first is an
opinion of their merits or deservings, which is not only understood, but condemned by the due
consideration of the law: and the second is the love of riches, which turns aside many from that race
in which they ran with a good courage.
#BCV:Mark 10:19
<h3><verse=Mark 10:19>Mark 10:19</verse></h3>



Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear
false witness, (d) Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.



(d) Neither by force nor deceit, nor any other means at all.
#BCV:Mark 10:28
<h3><verse=Mark 10:28>Mark 10:28</verse></h3>




(5) Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee.



(5) To neglect everything in comparison with Christ is a sure way unto eternal life, so that we do not
fall away along the path.
#BCV:Mark 10:30
<h3><verse=Mark 10:30>Mark 10:30</verse></h3>



But he shall receive an (e) hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and
mothers, and children, and lands, (f) with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.



(e) A hundred times as much, if we use the commodities of this life in a proper way, so that we use
them in accordance with the will of God, and not just to gain the wealth itself, and to fulfil our
greedy desire.



(f) Even in the midst of persecutions.
#BCV:Mark 10:32
<h3><verse=Mark 10:32>Mark 10:32</verse></h3>




(6) And they were in the way going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus went before them: and they were
amazed; and as they followed, they were afraid. And he took again the twelve, and began to tell them
what things should happen unto him,



(6) The disciples are again prepared not to be overcome by the foretelling unto them of his death,
which was at hand, and in addition about his life, which would most certainly follow.
#BCV:Mark 10:35
<h3><verse=Mark 10:35>Mark 10:35</verse></h3>


<page=2517>(7) And James and John, the sons of Zebedee, come unto him, saying, Master, (g) we would that
thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we shall desire.



(7) We must first strive before we triumph.



(g) We pray thee.
#BCV:Mark 10:42
<h3><verse=Mark 10:42>Mark 10:42</verse></h3>




(8) But Jesus called them [to him], and saith unto them, Ye know that (h) they which are accounted
to rule over the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise authority upon
them.



(8) The magistrates according to God's appointment rule over their subjects: but the pastors are not
called to rule, but to serve according to the example of the Son of God himself who went before
them, for in doing such he also was a minister of his Father's will.



(h) They to whom it is decreed and appointed.
#BCV:Mark 10:46
<h3><verse=Mark 10:46>Mark 10:46</verse></h3>




(9) And they came to Jericho: and as he went out of Jericho with his disciples and a great number of
people, blind Bartimaeus, the son of Timaeus, sat by the highway side begging.



(9) Only Christ being called upon by faith heals our blindness.

<h2>Mark 11</h2>

#BCV:Mark 11:1
<h3><verse=Mark 11:1>Mark 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=2518>And (1) when they came nigh to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he
sendeth forth two of his disciples,



(1) A graphic image of the spiritual kingdom of Christ on earth.
#BCV:Mark 11:9
<h3><verse=Mark 11:9>Mark 11:9</verse></h3>



And they that went before, and they that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna; (a) Blessed [is] he that
cometh in the name of the Lord:



(a) Let it be well to him that comes to us from God, or that is sent from God.
#BCV:Mark 11:10
<h3><verse=Mark 11:10>Mark 11:10</verse></h3>




(b) Blessed [be] the kingdom of our father David, that cometh in the name of the Lord: Hosanna in
the highest.



(b) Happy and prosperous.
#BCV:Mark 11:13
<h3><verse=Mark 11:13>Mark 11:13</verse></h3>




(2) And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon:
and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not [yet].



(2) An example of that vengeance which hangs over the heads of hypocrites.
#BCV:Mark 11:15
<h3><verse=Mark 11:15>Mark 11:15</verse></h3>




(3) And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them that
sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of
them that sold doves;



(3) Christ shows that he is indeed the true King and high Priest, and therefore the one who takes
revenge upon those who do not show proper reverence for the holy function of the temple.
#BCV:Mark 11:16
<h3><verse=Mark 11:16>Mark 11:16</verse></h3>



And would not suffer that any man should carry [any] (c) vessel through the temple.

<page=2519>(c) That is, any profane instrument (of which those men had many) that made the court of the
temple a marketplace.
#BCV:Mark 11:17
<h3><verse=Mark 11:17>Mark 11:17</verse></h3>



And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be (d) called of all nations the
house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves.



(d) Will openly be considered and taken to be so.
#BCV:Mark 11:20
<h3><verse=Mark 11:20>Mark 11:20</verse></h3>




(4) And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots.



(4) The power of faith is exceedingly great, and charity is always joined with it.
#BCV:Mark 11:22
<h3><verse=Mark 11:22>Mark 11:22</verse></h3>



And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have (e) faith in God.



(e) The faith of God is that assured faith and trust which we have in him.
#BCV:Mark 11:24
<h3><verse=Mark 11:24>Mark 11:24</verse></h3>



Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that (f) ye receive
[them], and ye shall have [them].



(f) Literally, "that you receive it", speaking in the present tense, to show the certainty of the thing,
and that it will indeed be performed.
#BCV:Mark 11:25
<h3><verse=Mark 11:25>Mark 11:25</verse></h3>



And when (g) ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is
in heaven may forgive you your trespasses.



(g) When you will appear before the altar.
#BCV:Mark 11:27
<h3><verse=Mark 11:27>Mark 11:27</verse></h3>




(5) And they come again to Jerusalem: and as he was walking in the temple, there come to him the
chief priests, and the scribes, and the elders,



(5) The gospel has been assaulted long since then by those in positions of human authority.
#BCV:Mark 11:32
<h3><verse=Mark 11:32>Mark 11:32</verse></h3>

#BCV:mar 11:32
<h3><verse=mar 11:32>mar 11:32</verse></h3>



prophet indeed.



(6) The reward of their evil conscience is to be afraid of those who should have been afraid of them.

<h2>Mark 12</h2>

#BCV:Mark 12:35
<h3><verse=Mark 12:35>Mark 12:35</verse></h3>


<page=2521>(5) And Jesus answered and said, while he taught in the temple, How say the scribes that Christ is
the Son of David?



(5) Christ proves his Godhead even out of David himself, from whom he came according to the
flesh.
#BCV:Mark 12:36
<h3><verse=Mark 12:36>Mark 12:36</verse></h3>



For David himself said by (f) the Holy Ghost, The LORD said to my Lord, Sit thou on my right
hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool.



(f) Literally, "in the Holy Spirit"; and there is a great power in this kind of speech, by which is meant
that it was not so much David who was speaking, but instead the Holy Spirit, who in a way
possessed David.
#BCV:Mark 12:38
<h3><verse=Mark 12:38>Mark 12:38</verse></h3>




(6) And he said unto them in (g) his doctrine, Beware of the scribes, which love to go in (h) long
clothing, and [love] salutations in the marketplaces,



(6) The manners of ministers are not to be followed rashly as an example.



(g) While he taught them.



(h) The word is a "stole", which is a kind of woman's garment that goes down even to the heels, and
is taken generally to refer to any pleasant looking garment, but in this place it seems to signify the
fringed garment mentioned in (<bcv=Deu 22:12>Deu 22:12</bcv>).
#BCV:Mark 12:41
<h3><verse=Mark 12:41>Mark 12:41</verse></h3>




(7) And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people (i) cast money into the
treasury: and many that were rich cast in much.



(7) The doing of our duties which God allows is not considered worthy according to the outward
value, but instead according to the inward affections of the heart.



(i) Money of any type of metal which the Romans used, who in the beginning stamped or made
coins of brass, and after used it for currency.
#BCV:Mark 12:1
<h3><verse=Mark 12:1>Mark 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=2522>And (1) he began to speak unto them by (a) parables. A [certain] man planted a vineyard, and set an
hedge about [it], and digged [a place for] the winefat, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen,
and went into a far country.



(1) The calling of God is unbounded, without exception, in regard to place, person, or time.



(a) This word "parable", which the evangelists use, not only signifies a comparing of things together,
but also speeches and allegories with hidden meaning.
#BCV:Mark 12:2
<h3><verse=Mark 12:2>Mark 12:2</verse></h3>




(b) And at the season he sent to the husbandmen a servant, that he might receive from the
husbandmen of the fruit of the vineyard.



(b) When the fruits of the ground used to be gathered.
#BCV:Mark 12:12
<h3><verse=Mark 12:12>Mark 12:12</verse></h3>



And they (c) sought to lay hold on him, but feared the people: for they knew that he had spoken the
parable against them: and they left him, and went their way.



(c) They were greedy and very desirous.
#BCV:Mark 12:13
<h3><verse=Mark 12:13>Mark 12:13</verse></h3>




(2) And they send unto him certain of the Pharisees and of the Herodians, to catch him in [his]
words.



(2) The gospel links the authority of the magistrate with the service of God.
#BCV:Mark 12:14
<h3><verse=Mark 12:14>Mark 12:14</verse></h3>



And when they were come, they say unto him, Master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no
man: for thou (d) regardest not the person of men, but teachest the (e) way of God in truth: Is it
lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not?



(d) You do not judge by the outward appearance, so that the truth is therefore not darkened by any
means at all.



(e) The way by which we come to see God.
#BCV:Mark 12:18
<h3><verse=Mark 12:18>Mark 12:18</verse></h3>




(3) Then come unto him the Sadducees, which say there is no resurrection; and they asked him,
saying,

<page=2523>(3) The resurrection of the body is confirmed, opposed to the foolish ignorance and malice of the
Sadducees.
#BCV:Mark 12:28
<h3><verse=Mark 12:28>Mark 12:28</verse></h3>




(4) And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he
had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all?



(4) Sacrifices and outward worship never pleased God unless we first did the things which we owe to
God and our neighbours.

<h2>Mark 13</h2>

#BCV:Mark 13:1
<h3><verse=Mark 13:1>Mark 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=2524>And (1) as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples saith unto him, Master, see what manner
of stones and what buildings [are here]!



(1) The destruction of the temple, city, and whole nation is foretold, and the troubles of the Church:
but yet there are many comforts added, and last of all, the end of the world is described.
#BCV:Mark 13:9
<h3><verse=Mark 13:9>Mark 13:9</verse></h3>



But take heed to yourselves: for they shall deliver you up to councils; and in the synagogues ye shall
be beaten: and ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a (a) testimony against
them.



(a) When they hear you preach it will be a most evident witness against them, so that they will not be
able to pretend that they do not know.
#BCV:Mark 13:11
<h3><verse=Mark 13:11>Mark 13:11</verse></h3>



But when they shall lead [you], and deliver you up, (b) take no thought beforehand what ye shall
speak, neither (c) do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye:
for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost.



(b) We are not forbidden to think beforehand, but we are willed to beware of that pensive
carefulness by which men discourage themselves, which proceeds from distrust and lack of
confidence and sure hope of God's assistance. See<bcv=Mat 6:27> Mat 6:27</bcv>



(c) By any kind of made-up and cunning type of story to tell.
#BCV:Mark 13:13
<h3><verse=Mark 13:13>Mark 13:13</verse></h3>



And ye shall be hated of all [men] (d) for my name's sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the
same shall be saved.



(d) For me.
#BCV:Mark 13:14
<h3><verse=Mark 13:14>Mark 13:14</verse></h3>



But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, (e) standing
where it ought not, (let him that readeth understand,) then let them that be in Judaea flee to the
mountains:

<page=2525>(e) When the heathen and profane people shall not only enter into the temple, and defile both it and
the city, but also completely destroy it.
#BCV:Mark 13:19
<h3><verse=Mark 13:19>Mark 13:19</verse></h3>



For [in] (f) those days shall be affliction, such as was not from the beginning of the creation which
God created unto this time, neither shall be.



(f) This is an idiom which the Hebrews use and it has a great power in it, for it shows us that during
that entire time one misery will follow another in such a way as if the time itself was very misery
itself. So the prophet Amos says that the day of the Lord will be darkness; (<bcv=Amos 5:20>Amo 5:20</bcv>).
#BCV:Mark 13:32
<h3><verse=Mark 13:32>Mark 13:32</verse></h3>




(2) But of that day and [that] hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither
the Son, but the Father.



(2) The latter day is not to be searched for curiously, which day the Father alone knows: but let us
rather take heed that it does not come upon us unaware.

<h2>Mark 14</h2>

#BCV:Mark 14:1
<h3><verse=Mark 14:1>Mark 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=2526>After (1) two days was [the feast of] the passover, and of unleavened bread: and the chief priests and
the scribes sought how they might take him by craft, and put [him] to death.



(1) By the will of God, against the counsel of men, it came to pass that Christ should be put to
death upon the solemn day of the passover, that in all respects the truth of his sacrifice might agree
to the symbol of the passover.
#BCV:Mark 14:4
<h3><verse=Mark 14:4>Mark 14:4</verse></h3>




(2) And there were some that had indignation within themselves, and said, Why was this waste of
the ointment made?



(2) Rash judgments are made void before God.
#BCV:Mark 14:5
<h3><verse=Mark 14:5>Mark 14:5</verse></h3>



For it might have been sold for more than (a) three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor.
And they murmured against her.



(a) Which is about six English pounds.
#BCV:Mark 14:7
<h3><verse=Mark 14:7>Mark 14:7</verse></h3>




(3) For ye have the poor with you always, and whensoever ye will ye may do them good: but me ye
have not always.



(3) Christ allowed himself to be anointed once or twice for certain considerations: but his will is to
be daily anointed in the poor.
#BCV:Mark 14:8
<h3><verse=Mark 14:8>Mark 14:8</verse></h3>




(4) She hath done what she could: she is come aforehand to anoint my body to the burying.



(4) This woman, by the secret influence of the Spirit, anoints Christ, and thus sets before men's eyes
his death and burial which were at hand.
#BCV:Mark 14:10
<h3><verse=Mark 14:10>Mark 14:10</verse></h3>




(5) And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the chief priests, to betray him unto them.

<page=2527>(5) Covetousness disguised with a zeal of charity is an occasion to betray and crucify Christ.
#BCV:Mark 14:12
<h3><verse=Mark 14:12>Mark 14:12</verse></h3>




(6) And the first day of unleavened bread, (b) when (c) they killed the (d) passover, his disciples said
unto him, Where wilt thou that we go and prepare that thou mayest eat the passover?



(6) Christ being made subject to the law for us celebrates the passover according to the law: and in
addition by a miracle shows that even though he will immediately suffer in the flesh, that he is yet
God.



(b) That is, upon this day, and at the evening of the same day, which was the beginning of the
fifteenth. See<bcv=Mat 26:17> Mat 26:17</bcv>.



(c) They used to sacrifice.



(d) That is, spoken thus, by the figure of speech called metonymy, which is commonly used when
talking about sacraments, and by the passover is meant the paschal lamb.
#BCV:Mark 14:15
<h3><verse=Mark 14:15>Mark 14:15</verse></h3>



And he will shew you a large (e) upper room furnished [and] prepared: there make ready for us.



(e) The Greek word signifies that part of the house that is highest from the ground, and because
they used to eat supper in that part of the house they called it a supper room, no matter what they
were using it for.
#BCV:Mark 14:18
<h3><verse=Mark 14:18>Mark 14:18</verse></h3>




(7) And as they sat and did eat, Jesus said, Verily I say unto you, One of you which eateth with me
shall betray me.



(7) The types in the law, which are to be fulfilled before long, are cancelled: and in place of them are
put symbols of the new covenant corresponding to them, which will continue to the world's end.
#BCV:Mark 14:20
<h3><verse=Mark 14:20>Mark 14:20</verse></h3>



And he answered and said unto them, [It is] one of the twelve, that (f) dippeth with me in the dish.



(f) That regularly eats with me.
#BCV:Mark 14:27
<h3><verse=Mark 14:27>Mark 14:27</verse></h3>




(8) And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I
will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered.

<page=2528>(8) Christ foretells how he will be forsaken by his own, but yet that he will never forsake them.
#BCV:Mark 14:29
<h3><verse=Mark 14:29>Mark 14:29</verse></h3>




(9) But Peter said unto him, Although all shall be offended, yet [will] not I.



(9) Here is set forth in an excellent person a most sorrowful example of man's rashness and
weakness.
#BCV:Mark 14:31
<h3><verse=Mark 14:31>Mark 14:31</verse></h3>



But he spake the (g) more vehemently, If I should die with thee, I will not deny thee in any wise.
Likewise also said they all.



(g) The doubling of words here sets out more plainly Peter's vehement affirmation.
#BCV:Mark 14:32
<h3><verse=Mark 14:32>Mark 14:32</verse></h3>




(10) And they came to a place which was named Gethsemane: and he saith to his disciples, Sit ye
here, while I shall pray.



(10) Christ suffering for us the most horrible terrors of the curse of God, in that flesh which he
took upon him for our sakes, receives the cup from his Father's hands, which he being just, drinks
right away for the unjust.
#BCV:Mark 14:36
<h3><verse=Mark 14:36>Mark 14:36</verse></h3>



And he said, (h) Abba, Father, all things [are] possible unto thee; take away this cup from me:
nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt.



(h) This doubling of the word was used in those days when their languages were mixed together: for
the word "Abba" is a Syrian word.
#BCV:Mark 14:37
<h3><verse=Mark 14:37>Mark 14:37</verse></h3>




(11) And he cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto Peter, Simon, sleepest thou? couldest
not thou watch one hour?



(11) A horrible example of the sluggishness of men, even among the disciples whom Christ had
chosen.
#BCV:Mark 14:43
<h3><verse=Mark 14:43>Mark 14:43</verse></h3>


<page=2529>(12) And immediately, while he yet spake, cometh Judas, one of the twelve, and with him a great
multitude with swords and staves, from the chief priests and the scribes and the elders.



(12) As men willingly robbed God their creator of his praise in forsaking and betraying him: so
Christ, willingly going about to make satisfaction for this ruin, is forsaken by his own, and betrayed
by one of his familiar acquaintances as a thief, so that the punishment might be in agreement with
the sin, and that we who are ourselves traitors, forsakers and those committing sacrilege, might be
delivered out of the devil's snare.
#BCV:Mark 14:44
<h3><verse=Mark 14:44>Mark 14:44</verse></h3>



And he that betrayed him had given them a token, saying, Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he;
take him, and lead [him] away (i) safely.



(i) So diligently that he cannot escape out of your hand.
#BCV:Mark 14:47
<h3><verse=Mark 14:47>Mark 14:47</verse></h3>



And (k) one of them that stood by drew a sword, and smote a servant of the high priest, and cut off
his ear.



(k) That is, Peter.
#BCV:Mark 14:50
<h3><verse=Mark 14:50>Mark 14:50</verse></h3>



And they (l) all forsook him, and fled.



(l) All his disciples.
#BCV:Mark 14:51
<h3><verse=Mark 14:51>Mark 14:51</verse></h3>




(13) And there followed him a certain young man, having a (m) linen cloth cast about [his] naked
[body]; and the young men laid hold on him:



(13) Under a pretence of godliness, all things are lawful to those who do violence against Christ.



(m) Which he cast about him, and ran forth after he heard the commotion in the night: by this we
may understand with how great licentiousness these villains violently set upon him.
#BCV:Mark 14:53
<h3><verse=Mark 14:53>Mark 14:53</verse></h3>



And they led Jesus away to the high priest: and with him were (n) assembled all the chief priests and
the elders and the scribes.

<page=2530>(n) The highest council was assembled because Christ was accused as a blasphemer and a false
prophet: for as to the other crime of treason, it was forged against him by the priest in order to
force Pilate to condemn him.
#BCV:Mark 14:55
<h3><verse=Mark 14:55>Mark 14:55</verse></h3>




(14) And the chief priests and all the council sought for witness against Jesus to put him to death;
and found none.



(14) Christ, who was so innocent that he could not be oppressed, not even by false witnesses, is at
length condemned for impiety before the high priest for confessing God to be his father. This is so
that we, who denied God and were indeed wicked, might be acquitted before God.
#BCV:Mark 14:61
<h3><verse=Mark 14:61>Mark 14:61</verse></h3>



But he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, and said unto him,
Art thou the Christ, the Son of the (o) Blessed?



(o) Of God, who is most worthy of all praise?
#BCV:Mark 14:65
<h3><verse=Mark 14:65>Mark 14:65</verse></h3>




(15) And some began to spit on him, and to cover his face, and to buffet him, and to say unto him,
Prophesy: and the servants did strike him with the palms of their hands.



(15) Christ, suffering all types of reproach for our sakes, gets everlasting glory for those that believe
in him.
#BCV:Mark 14:66
<h3><verse=Mark 14:66>Mark 14:66</verse></h3>




(16) And as Peter was beneath in the palace, there cometh one of the maids of the high priest:



(16) A grievous example of the frailness of man together with a most comfortable example of the
mercy of God, who gives the spirit of repentance and faith to his elect.
#BCV:Mark 14:69
<h3><verse=Mark 14:69>Mark 14:69</verse></h3>



And (q) a maid saw him again, and began to say to them that stood by, This is [one] of them.



(q) If we carefully compare the evangelists together we will perceive that Peter was known by many
through the maiden's report: furthermore, when the second denial is spoken of in Luke, there is a
man servant mentioned and not a maid.

<h2>Mark 15</h2>

#BCV:Mark 15:1
<h3><verse=Mark 15:1>Mark 15:1</verse></h3>

<page=2531>And (1) straightway in the morning the chief priests held a consultation with the elders and scribes
and the whole council, and bound Jesus, and carried [him] away, and (a) (a) delivered [him] to Pilate.



(1) Christ being bound before the judgment seat of an earthly Judge, is condemned before the open
assembly as guilty unto the death of the cross, not for his own sins (as is shown by the judge's own
words) but for all of ours, that we who are indeed guilty creatures, in being delivered from the
guiltiness of our sins, might be acquitted before the judgment seat of God, even in the open
assembly of the angels.



(a) It was not lawful for them to put any man to death, for all authority to punish by death was taken
away from them, first by Herod the great, and afterward by the Romans, about forty years before the
destruction of the temple, and therefore they deliver Jesus to Pilate.
#BCV:Mark 15:6
<h3><verse=Mark 15:6>Mark 15:6</verse></h3>



Now at [that] feast he (b) released unto them one prisoner, whomsoever they desired.



(b) Pilate used to deliver.
#BCV:Mark 15:17
<h3><verse=Mark 15:17>Mark 15:17</verse></h3>




(2) And they clothed him with purple, and platted a crown of thorns, and put it about his [head],



(2) Christ going about to take away the sins of men, who went about to usurp the throne of God
himself, is condemned as one that sought diligently after the kingdom, and mocked with a false
show of a kingdom, that we on the other hand, who will indeed be eternal kings, might receive the
crowns of glory from God's own hand.
#BCV:Mark 15:21
<h3><verse=Mark 15:21>Mark 15:21</verse></h3>



And they (3) compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father
of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross.



(3) The rage of the wicked has no measure; meanwhile, even the weakness of Christ, who was in
pain under the heavy burden of the cross, manifestly shows that a lamb is led to be sacrificed.
#BCV:Mark 15:22
<h3><verse=Mark 15:22>Mark 15:22</verse></h3>




(4) And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is, being interpreted, The place of a skull.

<page=2532>(4) Christ is led out of the walls of the earthly Jerusalem into a foul place of dead men's carcasses,
as a man most unclean, not because of himself, but because of our sins, which were laid upon him,
with the result that we, being made clean by his blood, might be brought into the heavenly sanctuary.
#BCV:Mark 15:24
<h3><verse=Mark 15:24>Mark 15:24</verse></h3>




(5) And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots upon them, what every
man should take.



(5) Christ hangs naked upon the cross, and as the most wicked and base person that ever was, most
vilely reproved. This was so that we, being clothed with his righteousness and blessed with his curses
and sanctified by his only sacrifice, may be taken up into heaven.
#BCV:Mark 15:33
<h3><verse=Mark 15:33>Mark 15:33</verse></h3>



And when the sixth hour was come, there was (6) darkness over the (c) whole land until the ninth
hour.



(6) How angry God was against our sins, which he punished in his son who is our sure substitute, is
made evident by this horrible darkness.



(c) By this word "land" he means Palestine: so that the strangeness of the wonder is all the more set
forth in that at the feast of the passover, and in the full moon, when the sun shone over all the rest
of the world, and at midday, this corner of the world in which so wicked an act was committed was
covered over with great darkness.
#BCV:Mark 15:34
<h3><verse=Mark 15:34>Mark 15:34</verse></h3>



And at the (7) ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani? which is,
being interpreted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?



(7) Christ striving mightily with Satan, sin and death, all three armed with the horrible curse of God,
grievously tormented in body hanging upon the cross, and in soul plunged into the depth of hell, yet
he clears himself, crying with a mighty voice: and notwithstanding the wound which he received
from death, in that he died, yet by smiting both things above and things beneath, by the renting of
the veil of the temple, and by the testimony wrung out of those who murdered him, he shows
evidently unto the rest of his enemies who are as yet obstinate, and mock at him, that he will be
known without delay to be conqueror and Lord of all.
#BCV:Mark 15:40
<h3><verse=Mark 15:40>Mark 15:40</verse></h3>




(8) There were also women looking on afar off: among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the
mother of James the less and of Joses, and Salome;

<page=2533>(8) Christ, to the great shame of the men who forsook the Lord, chose women for his witnesses,
who beheld this entire event.
#BCV:Mark 15:43
<h3><verse=Mark 15:43>Mark 15:43</verse></h3>



Joseph of Arimathaea, an (d) honourable counsellor, which also waited for the kingdom of God,
came, and went in (e) boldly unto Pilate, and craved the body of Jesus.



(d) A man of great authority, of the council of the sanhedrin, or else a man who was taken by Pilate
for his own council.



(e) If we consider what danger Joseph put himself into we shall perceive how bold he was.

<h2>Mark 16</h2>

#BCV:Mark 16:4
<h3><verse=Mark 16:4>Mark 16:4</verse></h3>

<page=2534>And when they (a) looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great.



(a) When they cast their eyes toward the sepulchre.
#BCV:Mark 16:5
<h3><verse=Mark 16:5>Mark 16:5</verse></h3>



And entering into the (b) sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long
white garment; and they were affrighted.



(b) Into the cave out of which the sepulchre was cut.
#BCV:Mark 16:9
<h3><verse=Mark 16:9>Mark 16:9</verse></h3>




(1) Now when [Jesus] was risen early the first [day] of the week, he appeared first to Mary
Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils.



(1) Christ himself appears to Mary Magdalene to reprove the disciple's incredulity.
#BCV:Mark 16:12
<h3><verse=Mark 16:12>Mark 16:12</verse></h3>




(2) After that he appeared in another form unto two of them, as they walked, and went into the
country.



(2) Christ appears to two other disciples and at length to the eleven.
#BCV:Mark 16:14
<h3><verse=Mark 16:14>Mark 16:14</verse></h3>




(c) Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat, and upbraided them with their
unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was
risen.



(c) The evangelist did not consider the chronological sequence of events, but rather what took place,
which he divided into three parts: The first shows how he appeared to the women, the second to his
disciples, the third to his apostles, and therefore he says "finally".
#BCV:Mark 16:15
<h3><verse=Mark 16:15>Mark 16:15</verse></h3>




(3) And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to (d) every creature.

<page=2535>(3) The apostles are appointed, and their office is limited to them, which is to preach that which they
heard from him, and to minister the sacraments which Christ has instituted, having in addition to
this the power to do miracles.



(d) Not to the Jews only, nor in Judea only, but to all men and everywhere: and so must all the
apostles do.
#BCV:Mark 16:17
<h3><verse=Mark 16:17>Mark 16:17</verse></h3>



And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak
with (e) new tongues;



(e) Strange tongues, ones which they did not know before.
#BCV:Mark 16:19
<h3><verse=Mark 16:19>Mark 16:19</verse></h3>




(4) So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the
right hand of God.



(4) Christ, having accomplished his office on earth, ascends into heaven, from where (the doctrine
of his apostles being confirmed with signs) he will govern his Church, until the world's end.
#BCV:Mark 16:20
<h3><verse=Mark 16:20>Mark 16:20</verse></h3>



And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with [them], and confirming (f)
the word with signs following. Amen.



(f) That is, the doctrine: therefore doctrine must go before and signs must follow after.

<h1>Luke</h1>


<h2>Luke 1</h2>

#BCV:Luke 1:1
<h3><verse=Luke 1:1>Luke 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2537>Forasmuch as (1) many have (a) taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things
which are most surely believed among us,



(1) Luke commends the witnesses that saw this present account.



(a) Many took it in hand, but did not perform: Luke wrote his gospel before Matthew and Mark.
#BCV:Luke 1:2
<h3><verse=Luke 1:2>Luke 1:2</verse></h3>




(b) Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers
of the word;



(b) Luke was not any eye witness, and therefore it was not he to whom the Lord appeared when
Cleopas saw him: and he was taught not only by Paul, but by others of the apostles also.
#BCV:Luke 1:3
<h3><verse=Luke 1:3>Luke 1:3</verse></h3>



It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things (c) from the very first, to
write unto thee in order, (d) most excellent Theophilus,



(c) Luke began his gospel a great deal further in the past than the others did.



(d) It is "most mighty", and therefore Theophilus was a very honourable man, and in a place of
great dignity.
#BCV:Luke 1:4
<h3><verse=Luke 1:4>Luke 1:4</verse></h3>



That thou mightest (e) know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed.



(e) Have fuller knowledge of those things which you know only partially.
#BCV:Luke 1:5
<h3><verse=Luke 1:5>Luke 1:5</verse></h3>



There (2) was (f) in the days of (g) Herod, the king of Judaea, a certain priest named Zacharias, of
the (h) course of Abia: and his wife [was] of the daughters of Aaron, and her name [was] Elisabeth.



(2) John, who was another Elias and appointed to be the herald of Christ, coming from the family
of Aaron, and of two famous and blameless parents, has shown in his conception (which was
<page=2538>against the course of nature) a double miracle, to the end that men should be more readily prepared
for the hearing of his preaching, according to the forewarning of the prophets.



(f) This is a Hebrew idiom which shows us how short and frail a thing the power of princes is.



(g) Herod the great.



(h) For the posterity of Aaron was divided into courses.
#BCV:Luke 1:6
<h3><verse=Luke 1:6>Luke 1:6</verse></h3>



And they were both (i) righteous before God, (k) walking in all the (l) commandments and
ordinances of the Lord (m) blameless.



(i) The true mark of righteousness is demonstrated when one is liked and accepted in the judgment
of God.



(k) Lived, as the Hebrews say, for our life is as a way in which we must walk until we come to the

<h1>mark.</h1>




(l) In all the moral and ceremonial law.



(m) Whom no man could justly reprove: now so it is that the fruits of justification are set forth here,
and not the cause, which is faith only, and nothing else.
#BCV:Luke 1:9
<h3><verse=Luke 1:9>Luke 1:9</verse></h3>



According to the custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he went into the (n)
temple of the Lord.



(n) The temple was one, and the court another, for Zacharias went out of the court (or outward
room) where all the people were (and therefore they are said to be without) and into the temple.
#BCV:Luke 1:15
<h3><verse=Luke 1:15>Luke 1:15</verse></h3>



For he shall be great in the (o) sight of the Lord, and shall drink neither wine nor (p) strong drink;
and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb.



(o) So the Hebrews say when a rare kind of excellency is signified: so it is said of Nimrod in (Gen
10:9), "He was a mighty hunter before the LORD".



(p) Any drink that might make someone drunk.
#BCV:Luke 1:16
<h3><verse=Luke 1:16>Luke 1:16</verse></h3>



And many of the children of Israel shall he (q) turn to the Lord their God.

<page=2539>(q) Shall be a means to bring many to repentance, and they will turn themselves to the Lord, from
whom they fell.
#BCV:Luke 1:17
<h3><verse=Luke 1:17>Luke 1:17</verse></h3>



And he shall go (r) before him (s) in the spirit and power of Elias, to turn the (t) hearts of the
fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the (u) wisdom of the just; to make ready a people
prepared for the Lord.



(r) As they used to go before kings, and when you see them, you know the king is not far off.



(s) This is spoken by the figure of speech metonymy, taking the spirit for the gift of the spirit; as you
would say, the cause of that which comes from the cause.



(t) By the figure of speech synecdoche he shows that he will take away all types of enmities which
used to breed great troubles and turmoils among men.



(u) Wisdom and goodness are two of the main causes which make men revere and honour their
fathers.
#BCV:Luke 1:19
<h3><verse=Luke 1:19>Luke 1:19</verse></h3>



And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel, (x) that stand in the presence of God; and am
sent to speak unto thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings.



(x) That appears, for so the Hebrews use this saying "to stand" to mean that they are ready to do his
commandment.
#BCV:Luke 1:26
<h3><verse=Luke 1:26>Luke 1:26</verse></h3>




(3) And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galilee, named
Nazareth,



(3) The angel, serving the Lord who would be born, is sent to the virgin Mary, in whom the son of
the most high promised to David is conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit.
#BCV:Luke 1:27
<h3><verse=Luke 1:27>Luke 1:27</verse></h3>



To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the (y) house of David; and the virgin's
name [was] Mary.



(y) The same can be said of Mary, otherwise Christ would not have been of the stock of David, nor
his son.
#BCV:Luke 1:28
<h3><verse=Luke 1:28>Luke 1:28</verse></h3>

#BCV:luk 1:28
<h3><verse=luk 1:28>luk 1:28</verse></h3>



thee: (a) blessed [art] thou among women.



(z) It might be literally rendered, "full of favour and grace", and he shows immediately after, laying
out plainly unto us, what that favour is in that he says, "The Lord is with thee".



(a) Of God.
#BCV:Luke 1:29
<h3><verse=Luke 1:29>Luke 1:29</verse></h3>



And when she saw [him], she was (b) troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of
salutation this should be.



(b) Moved at the strangeness of the matter.
#BCV:Luke 1:30
<h3><verse=Luke 1:30>Luke 1:30</verse></h3>



And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast (c) found favour with God.



(c) So the Hebrews said, saying that those men have found favour who are in favour.
#BCV:Luke 1:32
<h3><verse=Luke 1:32>Luke 1:32</verse></h3>



He shall be great, and shall be (d) called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto
him the throne of his father David:



(d) He will be declared to be so, for he was the Son of God from everlasting, but was made manifest
in the flesh in his time.
#BCV:Luke 1:34
<h3><verse=Luke 1:34>Luke 1:34</verse></h3>



Then said Mary unto the angel, (e) How shall this be, seeing (f) I know not a man?



(e) The greatness of the matter causes the virgin to ask this question, not that she distrusted by any
means at all, for she asks only of the manner of the conceiving, so that it is plain she believed all the
rest.



(f) So speak the Hebrews, signifying by this modest kind of speech the company of man and wife
together, and this is the meaning of it: how will this be, for as I will be Christ's mother I am very
sure I will not know any man: for the godly virgin had learned by the prophets that the Messiah
would be born of a virgin.
#BCV:Luke 1:35
<h3><verse=Luke 1:35>Luke 1:35</verse></h3>

<page=2541>And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost (g) shall come upon thee, and the power
of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that (h) holy thing which shall be born of thee
shall be (i) called the Son of God.



(g) That is, the Holy Spirit will cause thee to conceive by his mighty power.



(h) That thing which is pure and void of all spot of uncleanliness: for he that was to take away sin
must of necessity be void of sin.



(i) Declared and shown to the world to be the Son of God.
#BCV:Luke 1:36
<h3><verse=Luke 1:36>Luke 1:36</verse></h3>



And, behold, thy (k) cousin Elisabeth, she hath also conceived a son in her old age: and this is the (l)
sixth month with her, who was called barren.



(k) Though Elisabeth was of the tribe of Levi, yet it was possible for her to be Mary's cousin: for
whereas it was forbidden by the Law for maidens to be married to men of other tribes, there was an
exception among the Levites, who could take for themselves wives out of any tribe: for the Levites
had no portion allotted to them when the land was divided among the people.



(l) This is now the sixth month from the time when she conceived.
#BCV:Luke 1:39
<h3><verse=Luke 1:39>Luke 1:39</verse></h3>




(4) And Mary arose in those days, and went into the (m) hill country with haste, into a (n) city of
Juda;



(4) Elisabeth being many months pregnant with John, and Mary being pregnant with Christ, do
rejoice for each other by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.



(m) Which is on the south side of Jerusalem.



(n) That is to say, Hebron: which was in times past called Kirjatharba: which was one of the towns
that were given to the Levites in the tribe of Judah, and is said to be in the mountains of Judah; (Jos
14:15;<bcv=Jos 21:11> Jos 21:11</bcv>).
#BCV:Luke 1:41
<h3><verse=Luke 1:41>Luke 1:41</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe (o) leaped in her
womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost:



(o) This was no ordinary or usual type of moving.
#BCV:Luke 1:42
<h3><verse=Luke 1:42>Luke 1:42</verse></h3>

<page=2542>And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed [art] thou among women, and (p) blessed [is]
the fruit of thy womb.



(p) Christ is blessed with respect to his humanity.
#BCV:Luke 1:46
<h3><verse=Luke 1:46>Luke 1:46</verse></h3>




(5) And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,



(5) Christ, the redeemer of the afflicted and revenger of the proud, promised long ago to the fathers,
is now finally exhibited indeed.
#BCV:Luke 1:48
<h3><verse=Luke 1:48>Luke 1:48</verse></h3>



For he hath (q) regarded the (r) low estate of his handmaiden: for, behold, from henceforth all
generations shall call me blessed.



(q) Has freely and graciously loved.



(r) Literally, "My baseness", that is, my base estate: so that the virgin did not boast of her deserts, but
the grace of God.
#BCV:Luke 1:50
<h3><verse=Luke 1:50>Luke 1:50</verse></h3>



And his mercy [is] on them (s) that fear him from generation to generation.



(s) To those that live godly and religiously, as the Hebrews say.
#BCV:Luke 1:51
<h3><verse=Luke 1:51>Luke 1:51</verse></h3>



He hath shewed strength with his (t) arm; he hath (u) scattered the proud in the (x) imagination of
their hearts.



(t) Here many more words than necessary are used, which the Hebrews use very much: and "arm"
here is taken for strength.



(u) Even as the wind does to the chaff.



(x) He has scattered them, and the imagination of their hearts; or, by and through the imagination
of their own hearts; so that their wicked counsel turned to their own destruction.
#BCV:Luke 1:52
<h3><verse=Luke 1:52>Luke 1:52</verse></h3>



He hath (y) put down the mighty from [their] seats, and exalted them of (z) low degree.



(y) The mighty and rich men.

<page=2543>(z) Those of no account, who are vile in men's eyes, who are indeed the poor in spirit, that is, those
who claim nothing of themselves in the sight of God.
#BCV:Luke 1:53
<h3><verse=Luke 1:53>Luke 1:53</verse></h3>



He hath filled the (a) hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away.



(a) Those that are brought to extreme poverty.
#BCV:Luke 1:54
<h3><verse=Luke 1:54>Luke 1:54</verse></h3>




(b) He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of [his] mercy;



(b) He has helped Israel up with his arm, who had been completely cast down.
#BCV:Luke 1:55
<h3><verse=Luke 1:55>Luke 1:55</verse></h3>



As he (c) spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed for ever.



(c) Promised.
#BCV:Luke 1:57
<h3><verse=Luke 1:57>Luke 1:57</verse></h3>




(6) Now Elisabeth's full time came that she should be delivered; and she brought forth a son.



(6) John's birth is accompanied by new miracles.
#BCV:Luke 1:65
<h3><verse=Luke 1:65>Luke 1:65</verse></h3>



And fear came on all that dwelt round about them: and all (d) these sayings were noised abroad
throughout all the hill country of Judaea.



(d) All this which was said and done.
#BCV:Luke 1:66
<h3><verse=Luke 1:66>Luke 1:66</verse></h3>



And all they that heard [them] (e) laid [them] up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall
this be! And the (f) hand of the Lord was with him.



(e) Thought upon them diligently and earnestly, and as it were, printed them in their hearts.



(f) That is, the present favour of God, and a singular type of virtue appeared in him.
#BCV:Luke 1:67
<h3><verse=Luke 1:67>Luke 1:67</verse></h3>


<page=2544>(7) And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied, saying,



(7) John, having just been born, by the authority of the Holy Spirit is appointed to his office.
#BCV:Luke 1:68
<h3><verse=Luke 1:68>Luke 1:68</verse></h3>



Blessed [be] the Lord God of Israel; for he hath (g) visited and (h) redeemed his people,



(g) That he has shown himself mindful of his people, to the extent that he came down from heaven
himself to visit us in person, and to redeem us.



(h) Has paid the ransom, that is to say, the price of our redemption.
#BCV:Luke 1:69
<h3><verse=Luke 1:69>Luke 1:69</verse></h3>



And hath raised up an (i) horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David;



(i) This word "horn", in the Hebrew language, signifies strength, and it is a metaphor taken from
beasts that fight with their horns: And by raising up the might of Israel is meant that the kingdom
of Israel was defended, and the enemies of it laid on the ground, even then when the strength of
Israel seemed to be utterly gone.
#BCV:Luke 1:72
<h3><verse=Luke 1:72>Luke 1:72</verse></h3>



To perform the mercy [promised] to our fathers, and (k) to remember his holy covenant;



(k) Declare indeed that he was mindful.
#BCV:Luke 1:75
<h3><verse=Luke 1:75>Luke 1:75</verse></h3>



In holiness and righteousness (l) before him, all the days of our life.



(l) To God's good liking.
#BCV:Luke 1:76
<h3><verse=Luke 1:76>Luke 1:76</verse></h3>



And thou, (m) child, shalt be called the prophet of the Highest: for thou shalt go before the face of
the Lord to prepare his ways;



(m) Though you be at this present time ever so little.
#BCV:Luke 1:77
<h3><verse=Luke 1:77>Luke 1:77</verse></h3>



To (n) give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the (o) remission of their sins,

<page=2545>(n) Open the way.



(o) Forgiveness of sins is the means by which God saves us; (<bcv=Rom 4:7>Rom 4:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Luke 1:78
<h3><verse=Luke 1:78>Luke 1:78</verse></h3>



Through the tender mercy of our God; whereby the (p) dayspring from on high hath visited us,



(p) Or "bud", or "branch"; he alludes to (<bcv=Jer 23:5>Jer 23:5</bcv>) (<bcv=Zec 3:8>Zac 3:8</bcv>;<bcv=Zec 6:12> Zac 6:12</bcv>); and he is called a bud from on
high, that is, sent from God unto us, and not as other buds which bud out of the earth.
#BCV:Luke 1:79
<h3><verse=Luke 1:79>Luke 1:79</verse></h3>



To give light to them that sit in darkness and [in] the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the (q)
way of peace.



(q) Into the way which leads us to true happiness.

<h2>Luke 2</h2>

#BCV:Luke 2:1
<h3><verse=Luke 2:1>Luke 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2546>And (1) it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the



(a) world should be (b) taxed.



(1) Christ, the son of God, taking upon himself the form of a servant, and making himself of no
reputation, is poorly born in a stable: and by the means of Augustus, the mightiest prince in the
world, (thinking nothing of it) has his cradle prepared in Bethlehem, as the prophets foretold.



(a) As far as the empire of the Romans stretched.



(b) That is, the inhabitants of every city should have their names recorded, and their goods rated at a
certain value, that the emperor might understand how rich every country, city, family, and house was.
#BCV:Luke 2:4
<h3><verse=Luke 2:4>Luke 2:4</verse></h3>



And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the (c) city of
David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:)



(c) Which David was born and brought up in.
#BCV:Luke 2:8
<h3><verse=Luke 2:8>Luke 2:8</verse></h3>




(2) And there were in the same country shepherds (d) abiding in the field, keeping watch over their
flock by night.



(2) The angels themselves declare to poor shepherds (not at all regarding the pride of the mighty)
the Godhead and office of the child lying in the crib.



(d) Living outside, and in the open air.
#BCV:Luke 2:9
<h3><verse=Luke 2:9>Luke 2:9</verse></h3>



And, lo, the angel of the Lord (e) came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about
them: and they were sore afraid.



(e) Came suddenly upon them, when they were not at all thinking about such a matter.
#BCV:Luke 2:13
<h3><verse=Luke 2:13>Luke 2:13</verse></h3>



And suddenly there was with the angel (f) a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying,

<page=2547>(f) Whole armies of angels, who compass the majesty of God round about, just as soldiers, as it
were.
#BCV:Luke 2:14
<h3><verse=Luke 2:14>Luke 2:14</verse></h3>



Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, (g) good will toward men.



(g) God's ready, good, infinite, and gracious favour towards men.
#BCV:Luke 2:21
<h3><verse=Luke 2:21>Luke 2:21</verse></h3>




(3) And when eight days were accomplished for the circumcising of the child, his name was called
JESUS, which was so named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.



(3) Christ, the head of the Church, made subject to the law in order to deliver us from the curse of
the law (as the name of Jesus well declares) being circumcised, ratifies and seals in his own flesh the
circumcision of the flesh.
#BCV:Luke 2:22
<h3><verse=Luke 2:22>Luke 2:22</verse></h3>




(4) And when the days of (h) her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished,
they brought him to Jerusalem, to present [him] to the Lord;



(4) Christ, upon whom all our sins were laid, being offered to God according to the law purifies both
Mary and us all in himself.



(h) This is meant for the fulfilling of the law: for otherwise the virgin was not defiled, nor unclean,
by the birth of this child.
#BCV:Luke 2:25
<h3><verse=Luke 2:25>Luke 2:25</verse></h3>




(5) And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name [was] Simeon; and the same man [was]
just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the (i) Holy Ghost was upon him.



(5) Simeon openly in the temple foretells the death of the coming of Messiah, of the casting out of
the greatest part of Israel, and of the calling of the Gentiles.



(i) He was endued with the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and this is said using the figure of speech
metonymy.
#BCV:Luke 2:27
<h3><verse=Luke 2:27>Luke 2:27</verse></h3>



And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the (k) parents brought in the child Jesus, to do
for him after the custom of the law,

<page=2548>(k) Joseph and Mary: and he says "parents" because that is what most of the people then thought.
#BCV:Luke 2:29
<h3><verse=Luke 2:29>Luke 2:29</verse></h3>



Lord, now (l) lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy (m) word:



(l) Let me depart out of this life, to be joined to my Father.



(m) As you promised me.
#BCV:Luke 2:30
<h3><verse=Luke 2:30>Luke 2:30</verse></h3>



For (n) mine eyes have seen thy (o) salvation,



(n) That is, for I have seen with my very eyes: for he saw before in mind, as it is said of Abraham,
"He saw my day and rejoiced."



(o) That in which your salvation is contained.
#BCV:Luke 2:31
<h3><verse=Luke 2:31>Luke 2:31</verse></h3>



Which thou hast prepared (p) before the face of all people;



(p) As a sign set up in a high place for all men to look upon.
#BCV:Luke 2:34
<h3><verse=Luke 2:34>Luke 2:34</verse></h3>



And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this [child] is (q) set for the (r)
fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a (s) sign which shall be spoken against;



(q) Is appointed and set by God for a mark.



(r) Fall of the reprobate who perishes because of their own fault: and for the rising of the elect,
unto whom God will give faith to believe.



(s) That is, a mark, which all men will strive earnestly to hit.
#BCV:Luke 2:35
<h3><verse=Luke 2:35>Luke 2:35</verse></h3>




(Yea, a sword shall (t) pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be
revealed.



(t) Will most keenly wound and grieve.
#BCV:Luke 2:36
<h3><verse=Luke 2:36>Luke 2:36</verse></h3>


<page=2549>(6) And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was
of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;



(6) Another witness besides Simeon, against whom no objection may be brought, inviting all men to
the receiving of the Messiah.
#BCV:Luke 2:40
<h3><verse=Luke 2:40>Luke 2:40</verse></h3>



And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, (u) filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was
upon him.



(u) As Christ grew up in age, so the virtue of his Godhead showed itself more and more.
#BCV:Luke 2:41
<h3><verse=Luke 2:41>Luke 2:41</verse></h3>




(7) Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the passover.



(7) The scribes and Pharisees are aroused to hear the wisdom of Christ in his time by an
extraordinary deed.
#BCV:Luke 2:48
<h3><verse=Luke 2:48>Luke 2:48</verse></h3>




(8) And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou
thus dealt with us? behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.



(8) All duties which we owe to men, even though they are not to be neglected, so are they (according
to the position in life which God has set us) not to be preferred before the glory of God.
#BCV:Luke 2:51
<h3><verse=Luke 2:51>Luke 2:51</verse></h3>




(9) And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother
kept all these sayings in her heart.



(9) Christ, very man, is made like us in every way except sin.

<h2>Luke 3</h2>

#BCV:Luke 3:1
<h3><verse=Luke 3:1>Luke 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2550>Now (1) in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Caesar, Pontius Pilate being governor of
Judaea, and Herod being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of Ituraea and of the
region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the tetrarch of Abilene,



(1) John comes at the time foretold by the prophets and lays the foundation of the gospel which is
exhibited unto us, setting forth the true observing of the law and free mercy in Christ, which comes
after John, using also baptism which is the outward sign both of regeneration and also forgiveness
of sins.
#BCV:Luke 3:2
<h3><verse=Luke 3:2>Luke 3:2</verse></h3>




(a) Annas and Caiaphas being the high priests, the word of God came unto John the son of
Zacharias in the wilderness.



(a) Josephus calls him Ananus.
#BCV:Luke 3:13
<h3><verse=Luke 3:13>Luke 3:13</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is (b) appointed you.



(b) Require no more than that sum that is appointed for the tribute money.
#BCV:Luke 3:14
<h3><verse=Luke 3:14>Luke 3:14</verse></h3>



And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them,
Do violence to no man, neither accuse [any] falsely; and be content with your (c) wages.



(c) Which was paid to them partly in money and partly in food.
#BCV:Luke 3:15
<h3><verse=Luke 3:15>Luke 3:15</verse></h3>




(2) And as the people were in expectation, and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he
were the Christ, or not;



(2) If we would rightly and fruitfully receive the sacraments, we must neither rest in the signs,
neither in him that ministers the signs, but lift up our eyes to Christ, who is the author of the
sacraments, and the giver of that which is represented by the sacraments.
#BCV:Luke 3:17
<h3><verse=Luke 3:17>Luke 3:17</verse></h3>


<page=2551>(3) Whose fan [is] in his hand, and he will throughly purge his floor, and will gather the wheat into
his garner; but the chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable.



(3) The gospel is the fan of the world.
#BCV:Luke 3:19
<h3><verse=Luke 3:19>Luke 3:19</verse></h3>




(4) But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for Herodias his brother Philip's wife, and for all
the evils which Herod had done,



(4) John's preaching is confirmed with his death.
#BCV:Luke 3:21
<h3><verse=Luke 3:21>Luke 3:21</verse></h3>




(5) Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass, that Jesus also being baptized, and
praying, the heaven was opened,



(5) Our baptism is sanctified in the head of the Church, and Christ also by the voice of the Father is
pronounced to be our everlasting King, Priest, and Prophet.
#BCV:Luke 3:23
<h3><verse=Luke 3:23>Luke 3:23</verse></h3>




(6) And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of
Joseph, which was [the son] of Heli,



(6) Christ's lineage, according to the flesh, is traced back even to Adam, and so to God, that it might
appear that it was only he whom God promised to Abraham and David, and appointed from
everlasting to his Church, which is composed of all sorts of men.

<h2>Luke 4</h2>

#BCV:Luke 4:1
<h3><verse=Luke 4:1>Luke 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=2552>And (1) Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the
wilderness,



(1) Christ, being carried away (as it were out of the world) into the desert, comes suddenly as if
from heaven, having fasted for forty days and overcoming Satan three times, and thus begins his
office.
#BCV:Luke 4:3
<h3><verse=Luke 4:3>Luke 4:3</verse></h3>




(2) And the devil said unto him, If thou be the Son of God, command this stone that it be made
bread.



(2) Christ, being tempted by Satan, first to distrust in God, secondly to the desire of riches and
honour, and lastly to a vain confidence in himself, overcomes him three times by the word of God.
#BCV:Luke 4:6
<h3><verse=Luke 4:6>Luke 4:6</verse></h3>



And the devil said unto him, All this (a) power will I give thee, and the glory of them: for that is (b)
delivered unto me; and to whomsoever I will I give it.



(a) By this word "power" are meant the kingdoms themselves which have the power: and so this is
said using the figure of speech metonymy.



(b) This is surely so, for he is prince of the world, but not absolutely, and is the sovereign of it only
by permission and request, and therefore he does not truly say that he can give it to whom he will.
#BCV:Luke 4:7
<h3><verse=Luke 4:7>Luke 4:7</verse></h3>



If thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be (c) thine.



(c) Out of a high place, from which would be seen a good and first-class country, and thus the devil
showed him all countries.
#BCV:Luke 4:16
<h3><verse=Luke 4:16>Luke 4:16</verse></h3>




(3) And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into
the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read.



(3) Who Christ is and for what reason he came he shows from the prophet Isaiah.
#BCV:Luke 4:17
<h3><verse=Luke 4:17>Luke 4:17</verse></h3>

#BCV:luk 4:17
<h3><verse=luk 4:17>luk 4:17</verse></h3>



book, he found the place where it was written,



(d) Their books in those days were rolled up as scrolls upon a ruler: and so Christ unrolled or
unfolded it, which is here called "opened".
#BCV:Luke 4:22
<h3><verse=Luke 4:22>Luke 4:22</verse></h3>




(4) And all (e) bare him witness, and (f) wondered at the (g) gracious words which proceeded out of
his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph's son?



(4) Familiarity causes Christ to be condemned and therefore he often goes to strangers.



(e) Approved those things which he spoke with common consent and voice: for this word "witness"
signifies in this place (and many others) "to allow and approve a thing with open confession".



(f) Present at this meeting of the scriptures were not only the learned, but also the common people:
and besides that, their mother tongue was used, for how else could the people have wondered? Paul
appointed the same manner for doing things in the Church at Corinth; (1Co. 14:1-40).



(g) Words full of the mighty power of God, which appeared in all his doings, and as well allured
men marvellously unto him; see (<bcv=Psa 45:2>Psa 45:2</bcv>), "grace is poured into thy lips".
#BCV:Luke 4:25
<h3><verse=Luke 4:25>Luke 4:25</verse></h3>



But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in the days of Elias, when the heaven was shut
up three years and six months, when great famine was throughout all the (h) land;



(h) Land of Israel; See<bcv=Mar 15:33> Mar 15:33</bcv>.
#BCV:Luke 4:28
<h3><verse=Luke 4:28>Luke 4:28</verse></h3>




(5) And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these things, were filled with wrath,



(5) The more sharply the world is rebuked the more it openly rages: but the life of the godly is not
always subject to the desires of the wicked.
#BCV:Luke 4:34
<h3><verse=Luke 4:34>Luke 4:34</verse></h3>




(6) Saying, Let [us] alone; what have we to do with thee, [thou] Jesus of Nazareth? art thou come to
destroy us? I know thee who thou art; the Holy One of God.



(6) Christ astonishes not only men, be they ever so stupid, but even the demons as well, whether or
not they want to be.
#BCV:Luke 4:38
<h3><verse=Luke 4:38>Luke 4:38</verse></h3>


<page=2554>(7) And he arose out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon's house. And Simon's wife's mother
was taken with a great fever; and they besought him for her.



(7) In that Christ heals the diseases of the body with only his word, he proves that he is God
Almighty, sent for man's salvation.
#BCV:Luke 4:41
<h3><verse=Luke 4:41>Luke 4:41</verse></h3>




(8) And devils also came out of many, crying out, and saying, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And
he rebuking [them] suffered them not to speak: for they knew that he was Christ.



(8) Satan, who is a continual enemy of the truth, ought not to be heard, not even when he speaks
the truth.
#BCV:Luke 4:42
<h3><verse=Luke 4:42>Luke 4:42</verse></h3>




(9) And when it was day, he departed and went into a desert place: and the people sought him, and
came unto him, and stayed him, that he should not depart from them.



(9) No zealous response on the part of the people ought to hinder us in the race that God has
appointed unto us.

<h2>Luke 5</h2>

#BCV:Luke 5:1
<h3><verse=Luke 5:1>Luke 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=2555>And (1) it came to pass, that, as the people (a) pressed upon him to hear the word of God, he stood
by the lake of Gennesaret,



(1) Christ reveals to the four disciples whom he had taken unto himself the office of the apostleship,
which would be committed unto them in the future.



(a) Did as it were lie upon him, so desirous were they both to see him and hear him, and therefore
he taught them out of a ship.
#BCV:Luke 5:5
<h3><verse=Luke 5:5>Luke 5:5</verse></h3>



And Simon answering said unto him, (b) Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken nothing:
nevertheless at thy word I will let down the net.



(b) The word signifies someone that has rule over anything.
#BCV:Luke 5:12
<h3><verse=Luke 5:12>Luke 5:12</verse></h3>




(2) And it came to pass, when he was in a certain city, behold a man full of leprosy: who seeing Jesus
fell on [his] face, and besought him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean.



(2) Christ, by healing the leper with only his touch and sending him to the priest, witnesses that it is
he, through whom and by whom, apprehended by faith, all we who are unclean according to the law
are pronounced to be pure and clean by the witness of God himself.
#BCV:Luke 5:15
<h3><verse=Luke 5:15>Luke 5:15</verse></h3>




(3) But so much the more went there a fame abroad of him: and great multitudes came together to
hear, and to be healed by him of their infirmities.



(3) Christ would rather be well known by his doctrine than by miracles, and therefore he departs
from those that seek him as a physician of the body, and not as the author of salvation.
#BCV:Luke 5:17
<h3><verse=Luke 5:17>Luke 5:17</verse></h3>




(4) And it came to pass on a certain day, as he was teaching, that there were Pharisees and doctors of
the law sitting by, which were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judaea, and Jerusalem: and
the power of the Lord (c) was [present] to heal them.

<page=2556>(4) Christ, in healing him that was sick from paralysis, shows the cause of all diseases, and the
remedy.



(c) The mighty power of Christ's Godhead showed itself in him at that time.
#BCV:Luke 5:27
<h3><verse=Luke 5:27>Luke 5:27</verse></h3>




(5) And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of
custom: and he said unto him, Follow me.



(5) The Church is a company of sinners who are repentant through the grace of Christ, who
banquet with him to the great offence of the proud and envious people of the world.
#BCV:Luke 5:33
<h3><verse=Luke 5:33>Luke 5:33</verse></h3>




(6) And they said unto him, Why do the disciples of John fast often, and make prayers, and likewise
[the disciples] of the Pharisees; but thine eat and drink?



(6) Hypocrites and ignorant men make a point of making fasting and unimportant things a matter
of holiness.
#BCV:Luke 5:34
<h3><verse=Luke 5:34>Luke 5:34</verse></h3>




(7) And he said unto them, Can ye make the children of the bridechamber fast, while the
bridegroom is with them?



(7) Laws generally made without any consideration of circumstances; for fasting and other things of
like sort are not only tyrannous but very harmful to the Church.

<h2>Luke 6</h2>

#BCV:Luke 6:1
<h3><verse=Luke 6:1>Luke 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=2557>And (1) it came to pass on the second sabbath after the first, that he went through the corn fields;
and his disciples (a) plucked the ears of corn, and did eat, rubbing [them] in [their] hands.



(1) Christ shows against the superstitious, who dwell on every trifling matter, that the law of the very
sabbath was not given to be kept without exception: much less that the salvation of man should
consist in the outward keeping of it.



(a) Epiphanius notes well in his treatise, where he refutes Ebion, that the time when the disciples
plucked the ears of the corn was in the feast of unleavened bread. Now, in those feasts which were
kept over a period of many days, as the feast of tabernacles and passover, their first day and the last
were very solemn; see <bcv=Lev 23:1-44>(Lev. 23:1-44).</bcv> Luke then fitly calls the last day the second sabbath, though
Theophylact understands it to be any of the sabbaths that followed the first.

#BCV:Luke 6:6
<h3><verse=Luke 6:6>Luke 6:6</verse></h3>




(2) And it came to pass also on another sabbath, that he entered into the synagogue and taught: and
there was a man whose right hand was withered.



(2) Charity is the rule of all ceremonies.
#BCV:Luke 6:9
<h3><verse=Luke 6:9>Luke 6:9</verse></h3>



Then said Jesus unto them, I will ask you one thing; Is it lawful on the sabbath days to do good, or
to do evil? to save life, or to (b) destroy [it]?



(b) Whoever does not help his neighbour when he can, he kills him.
#BCV:Luke 6:12
<h3><verse=Luke 6:12>Luke 6:12</verse></h3>




(3) And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all
night in prayer to God.



(3) In using earnest and long prayer in choosing twelve of his own company to the office of the
apostleship, Christ shows how religiously we ought to behave ourselves in the choice of ecclesiastical
persons.
#BCV:Luke 6:17
<h3><verse=Luke 6:17>Luke 6:17</verse></h3>

<page=2558>And he came down with them, and stood in the plain, and the company of his disciples, and a great
multitude of people out of all Judaea and Jerusalem, and from the (c) sea coast of Tyre and Sidon,
which came to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases;



(c) From all the sea coast, which is called Syrophoenecia.
#BCV:Luke 6:20
<h3><verse=Luke 6:20>Luke 6:20</verse></h3>




(4) And he lifted up his eyes on his disciples, and said, Blessed [be ye] poor: for yours is the kingdom
of God.



(4) Christ teaches against all philosophers, and especially the Epicureans, that the greatest happiness
of man is laid up in no place here on earth, but in heaven, and that persecution for righteousness'
sake is the right way to achieve it.
#BCV:Luke 6:22
<h3><verse=Luke 6:22>Luke 6:22</verse></h3>



Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall (d) separate you [from their company],
and shall reproach [you], and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake.



(d) Cast you out of their synagogues, as John expounds in (<bcv=John 16:2>Joh 16:2</bcv>), which is the severest
punishment the Church has, if the elders judge rightfully, and by the word of God.
#BCV:Luke 6:23
<h3><verse=Luke 6:23>Luke 6:23</verse></h3>



Rejoice ye in that day, and (e) leap for joy: for, behold, your reward [is] great in heaven: for in the like
manner did their fathers unto the prophets.



(e) Leap for exceeding joy, as cattle do who are spurred on by food.
#BCV:Luke 6:24
<h3><verse=Luke 6:24>Luke 6:24</verse></h3>



But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have (f) received your consolation.



(f) That is, you reap now of your riches all the convenience and blessing you are ever likely to have,
and therefore you have no other reward to look for; (<bcv=Mat 6:2>Mat 6:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Luke 6:27
<h3><verse=Luke 6:27>Luke 6:27</verse></h3>




(5) But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you,



(5) Christian charity, which is very different from worldly charity, not only does not revenge injuries,
but is even extended to our most grievous enemies, and that for our Father's sake who is in heaven:
in well doing it is not at all seeking its own.
#BCV:Luke 6:32
<h3><verse=Luke 6:32>Luke 6:32</verse></h3>

<page=2559>For if ye love them which love you, (g) what thank have ye? for sinners also love those that love
them.



(g) What is there in this your work that is to be accounted of ? For if you look to have reward by
loving, seek those rewards which are indeed rewards: love your enemies, and so will you show to the
world that you look for those rewards which come from God.
#BCV:Luke 6:35
<h3><verse=Luke 6:35>Luke 6:35</verse></h3>



But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, (h) hoping for nothing again; and your reward
shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and [to]
the evil.



(h) When you will lend, do it only to benefit and please with it, and not with the hope of receiving
the principal again.
#BCV:Luke 6:37
<h3><verse=Luke 6:37>Luke 6:37</verse></h3>




(6) Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: (i) forgive,
and ye shall be forgiven:



(6) Brotherly judgments must not proceed from curiosity nor rudeness nor malice, but they must be
just, moderate and loving.



(i) He does not speak here of civil judgments, and therefore by the word "forgive" is meant that
good nature which the Christians use in patiently suffering and pardoning wrongs.
#BCV:Luke 6:38
<h3><verse=Luke 6:38>Luke 6:38</verse></h3>



Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, (k) pressed down, and shaken together, and
running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall
be measured to you again.



(k) These are borrowed types of sayings, taken from those who used to measure dry things, as corn
and such things, who do it in a rather forceful manner, and thrust it down and shake it together, and
press it and put it into a pile.
#BCV:Luke 6:39
<h3><verse=Luke 6:39>Luke 6:39</verse></h3>




(7) And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead the blind? shall they not both fall into the
ditch?

<page=2560>(7) Unskillful reprehenders hurt both themselves and others: for as the teacher is, so is the student.
#BCV:Luke 6:41
<h3><verse=Luke 6:41>Luke 6:41</verse></h3>




(8) And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but perceivest not the beam that is
in thine own eye?



(8) Hypocrites who are very severe reprehenders of others are very quick to spitefully spot other
men's faults, but very blind to see their own.
#BCV:Luke 6:43
<h3><verse=Luke 6:43>Luke 6:43</verse></h3>




(9) For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good
fruit.



(9) Skill in reprehending others does not make a good man, but rather he that proves his uprightness
both in word and deed.
#BCV:Luke 6:47
<h3><verse=Luke 6:47>Luke 6:47</verse></h3>




(10) Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doeth them, I will shew you to whom
he is like:



(10) Affliction at length discerns true godliness from false and feigned godliness.

<h2>Luke 7</h2>

#BCV:Luke 7:1
<h3><verse=Luke 7:1>Luke 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=2561>Now (1) when he had ended all his sayings in the audience of the people, he entered into
Capernaum.



(1) Christ admonishes the Jews that for their obstinacy and rebellion he will go to the Gentiles, by
setting before them the example of the centurion.
#BCV:Luke 7:11
<h3><verse=Luke 7:11>Luke 7:11</verse></h3>




(2) And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called (a) Nain; and many of his
disciples went with him, and much people.



(2) Christ openly affirms his power over death.



(a) Nain is the name of a town in Galilee which was situated on the other side of the Kishon, which
runs into the sea of Galilee.
#BCV:Luke 7:18
<h3><verse=Luke 7:18>Luke 7:18</verse></h3>




(3) And the disciples of John shewed him of all these things.



(3) John sends from the prison his unbelieving disciples to be confirmed by Christ himself.
#BCV:Luke 7:21
<h3><verse=Luke 7:21>Luke 7:21</verse></h3>



And (b) in that same hour he cured many of [their] infirmities and plagues, and of evil spirits; and
unto many [that were] blind he gave sight.



(b) When John's disciples came to Christ.
#BCV:Luke 7:24
<h3><verse=Luke 7:24>Luke 7:24</verse></h3>




(4) And when the messengers of John were departed, he began to speak unto the people concerning
John, What went ye out into the wilderness for to see? A reed shaken with the wind?



(4) That which the prophets showed long before, John shows presently: and Christ himself presents
it daily unto us in the gospel, but for the most part in vain, because many seek nothing else than
foolish toys and vain glory.
#BCV:Luke 7:29
<h3><verse=Luke 7:29>Luke 7:29</verse></h3>

<page=2562>And all the people that heard [him], and the publicans, (c) justified God, being baptized with the
baptism of John.



(c) Said that he was just, good, faithful and merciful.
#BCV:Luke 7:30
<h3><verse=Luke 7:30>Luke 7:30</verse></h3>



But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God (d) against themselves, being not
baptized of him.



(d) To their own hurt.
#BCV:Luke 7:31
<h3><verse=Luke 7:31>Luke 7:31</verse></h3>




(5) And the Lord said, Whereunto then shall I liken the men of this generation? and to what are they
like?



(5) Whatever manner God uses in offering us the gospel, most men bring offences upon themselves:
yet nevertheless a Church is gathered together.
#BCV:Luke 7:36
<h3><verse=Luke 7:36>Luke 7:36</verse></h3>




(6) And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the
Pharisee's house, and sat down to meat.



(6) Proud men deprive themselves of the benefits of the presence of Christ, even when he is at
home with them in their houses; and these benefits the humble and base enjoy.
#BCV:Luke 7:39
<h3><verse=Luke 7:39>Luke 7:39</verse></h3>




(7) Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw [it], he spake within himself, saying, This man,
if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman [this is] that toucheth
him: (e) for she is a sinner.



(7) Rashness is the companion of pride.



(e) The Pharisee respects the law, which holds that those who touch the defiled are defiled.
#BCV:Luke 7:40
<h3><verse=Luke 7:40>Luke 7:40</verse></h3>




(8) And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith,
Master, say on.



(8) To love Christ is a sure and perpetual witness of the remission of sins.
#BCV:Luke 7:47
<h3><verse=Luke 7:47>Luke 7:47</verse></h3>

<page=2563>Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; (f) for she loved much: but to
whom little is forgiven, [the same] loveth little.



(f) That is, says Theophylact, she has shown her faith abundantly: and Basil in his "Sermon of
Baptism" says, "He that owes much has much forgiven him, that he may love much more". And
therefore Christ's saying is so plain in light of this that it is a wonder to see the enemies of the truth
so badly distort and misinterpret this place in such a thorough manner in order to establish their
meritorious works: for the greater sum a man has forgiven him, the more he loves him that has been
so gracious to him. And this woman shows by deeds of love how great the benefit was she had
received: and therefore the charity that is here spoken of is not to be taken as the cause of her
forgiveness, but as a sign of it: for Christ does not say as the Pharisees did that she was a sinner, but
bears her witness that the sins of her past life are forgiven her.
#BCV:Luke 7:50
<h3><verse=Luke 7:50>Luke 7:50</verse></h3>



And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; (g) go in peace.



(g) He confirms with a blessing the benefit which he had bestowed.

<h2>Luke 8</h2>

#BCV:Luke 8:4
<h3><verse=Luke 8:4>Luke 8:4</verse></h3>


<page=2564>(1) And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he
spake by a parable:



(1) The same gospel is sown everywhere, but does not everywhere yield the same fruit, and this is
only due to the fault of men themselves.
#BCV:Luke 8:10
<h3><verse=Luke 8:10>Luke 8:10</verse></h3>



And he said, Unto you it is given to know the (a) mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in
parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.



(a) Those things are called secret which may not be uttered: for the word used here is equivalent to
our saying, "to hold a man's peace".
#BCV:Luke 8:14
<h3><verse=Luke 8:14>Luke 8:14</verse></h3>



And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, (b) go forth, and are
choked with cares and riches and pleasures of [this] life, and (c) bring no fruit to perfection.



(b) That is, as soon as they have heard the word, they go about their business.



(c) They do not bring forth perfect and full fruit to the ripening: or, they begin, but they do not
bring to an end.
#BCV:Luke 8:15
<h3><verse=Luke 8:15>Luke 8:15</verse></h3>



But that on the good ground are they, which in an (d) honest and good heart, having heard the word,



(e) keep [it], and bring forth fruit with patience.



(d) Who seek not only to seem to be such, but are indeed so: so that this word "honest" refers to the
outward life, and the word "good" refers to the good gifts of the mind.



(e) With much difficulty, for the devil and the flesh fight against the Spirit of God, who is a new
guest.
#BCV:Luke 8:16
<h3><verse=Luke 8:16>Luke 8:16</verse></h3>




(2) No man, when he hath lighted a candle, covereth it with a vessel, or putteth [it] under a bed; but
setteth [it] on a candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light.



(2) That which every man has received in private he ought to bestow to the use and profit of all men.
#BCV:Luke 8:18
<h3><verse=Luke 8:18>Luke 8:18</verse></h3>


<page=2565>(3) Take (f) heed therefore how ye hear: for whosoever hath, to him shall be given; and whosoever
hath not, from him shall be taken even that (g) which he seemeth to have.



(3) Heavenly gifts are lost when one is sparing with them, and increase when one is liberal with them.



(f) That is, with what minds you come to hear the word, and how you behave yourselves when you
have heard it.



(g) Either to himself, or to others, or to both: for there are none so proud as these fellows, if it were
possible to see those things which they disguise: neither are there those that deceive the simple more
than they do.
#BCV:Luke 8:19
<h3><verse=Luke 8:19>Luke 8:19</verse></h3>




(4) Then came to him [his] mother and his brethren, and could not come at him for the press.



(4) There is no relationship of flesh and blood among men so intimate and upright as the band
which is between Christ and those who embrace him with a true faith.
#BCV:Luke 8:22
<h3><verse=Luke 8:22>Luke 8:22</verse></h3>




(5) Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went into a ship with his disciples: and he said unto
them, Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth.



(5) It is expedient for us sometimes to come into extreme danger, as though Christ was not with us,
that we may have a better test, both of his power, and also of our weakness.
#BCV:Luke 8:23
<h3><verse=Luke 8:23>Luke 8:23</verse></h3>



But as they sailed he fell (h) asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and (i) they
were filled [with water], and were in jeopardy.



(h) Jesus fell asleep, and it appears that he was very fast asleep, because they called him twice before
he awoke.



(i) Not the disciples, but the ship.
#BCV:Luke 8:27
<h3><verse=Luke 8:27>Luke 8:27</verse></h3>




(6) And when he went forth to land, there met him out of the city a certain man, which had devils
long time, and ware no clothes, neither abode in [any] house, but in the tombs.

<page=2566>(6) Christ shows by casting out a legion of demons by his word alone that his heavenly power was
appointed to deliver men from the slavery of the devil: but foolish men for the most part will not
redeem this so excellent grace freely offered unto them if it means the loss of even the least of their
wealth.
#BCV:Luke 8:29
<h3><verse=Luke 8:29>Luke 8:29</verse></h3>




(For he had commanded the unclean spirit to come out of the man. For oftentimes it had caught
him: and he was kept bound with chains and in fetters; and he brake the bands, (k) and was driven
of the devil into the wilderness.)



(k) By force and violence, as a horse when he is spurred.
#BCV:Luke 8:39
<h3><verse=Luke 8:39>Luke 8:39</verse></h3>



Return to thine own house, and shew how great things God hath done unto thee. And he went his
way, and published (l) throughout the whole city how great things Jesus had done unto him.



(l) That is, the city of the Gadarenes: and though Mark says that he preached it in Decapolis, these
accounts do not differ, for Pliny records in lib. 5, chap. 18, that Gadara is a town of Decapolis: so
that Decapolis was partly on this side of Jordan, and partly on the other side.
#BCV:Luke 8:40
<h3><verse=Luke 8:40>Luke 8:40</verse></h3>



And it came to pass, that, when Jesus was returned, the people (m) [gladly] received him: for they
were all waiting for him.



(m) The multitude was glad he had come again, and greatly rejoiced.
#BCV:Luke 8:41
<h3><verse=Luke 8:41>Luke 8:41</verse></h3>




(7) And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he was a ruler of the synagogue: and he fell
down at Jesus' feet, and besought him that he would come into his house:



(7) Christ shows by a double miracle that he is Lord both of life and death.
#BCV:Luke 8:43
<h3><verse=Luke 8:43>Luke 8:43</verse></h3>



And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all her (n) living upon
physicians, neither could be healed of any,



(n) All that she had to live upon.
#BCV:Luke 8:52
<h3><verse=Luke 8:52>Luke 8:52</verse></h3>

#BCV:luk 8:52
<h3><verse=luk 8:52>luk 8:52</verse></h3>




(o) The word signifies to beat and strike, and is used in the mournings and lamentations that are at
burials, at which times men used this type of behaviour.
#BCV:Luke 8:55
<h3><verse=Luke 8:55>Luke 8:55</verse></h3>



And her spirit came again, and she (p) arose straightway: and he commanded to give her meat.



(p) The corpse was lying there, and then the young girl received life, and rose out of the bed, that all
the world might see that she was not only restored to life, but also void of all sickness.

<h2>Luke 9</h2>

#BCV:Luke 9:1
<h3><verse=Luke 9:1>Luke 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=2568>Then (1) he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils,
and to cure diseases.



(1) The twelve apostles are sent forth only at the commandment of Christ and equipped with the
power of the Holy Spirit: both that none of the Israelites might pretend ignorance, and also that
they might be better prepared for their general mission.
#BCV:Luke 9:4
<h3><verse=Luke 9:4>Luke 9:4</verse></h3>



And whatsoever house ye enter into, there (a) abide, and thence depart.



(a) When you depart out of any city, depart from that place where you first took up your lodging: so
that in these few words the Lord forbids them to change their lodgings: for this publishing of the
gospel was as it were a publishing throughout the whole land, that no one in Judea might pretend
ignorance, as though he had not heard that Christ had come.
#BCV:Luke 9:7
<h3><verse=Luke 9:7>Luke 9:7</verse></h3>




(2) Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by him: and he (b) was perplexed, because
that it was said of some, that John was risen from the dead;



(2) As soon as the world hears tidings of the gospel it is divided into differing opinions, and the
tyrants especially are afraid.



(b) He stuck as it were fast in the mire.
#BCV:Luke 9:10
<h3><verse=Luke 9:10>Luke 9:10</verse></h3>




(3) And the apostles, when they were returned, told him all that they had done. And he took them,
and went aside privately into a (c) desert place belonging to the city called Bethsaida.



(3) They that follow Christ will lack nothing, not even in the wilderness.



(c) The word signifies a desert: note, this was not in the town Bethsaida, but part of the fields
belonging to the town.
#BCV:Luke 9:13
<h3><verse=Luke 9:13>Luke 9:13</verse></h3>



But he said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they said, We have no more but five loaves and two
fishes; (d) except we should go and buy meat for all this people.

<page=2569>(d) This is said imperfectly, and therefore we must understand it to mean something like this: "We
cannot give them to eat unless we go and buy, etc.".
#BCV:Luke 9:16
<h3><verse=Luke 9:16>Luke 9:16</verse></h3>



Then he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and looking up to heaven, (e) he blessed them, and
brake, and gave to the disciples to set before the multitude.



(e) He gave God thanks for these loaves and fishes, and prayed at the same time that God would
feed this multitude which was so great with such a small quantity, and to put it briefly, that this
whole banquet might be to the glory of God.
#BCV:Luke 9:18
<h3><verse=Luke 9:18>Luke 9:18</verse></h3>




(4) And it came to pass, as he was (f) alone praying, his disciples were with him: and he asked them,
saying, Whom say the people that I am?



(4) Although the world be tossed up and down between different errors, yet we ought not to
condemn the truth but be all the more desirous to know it, and be more steadfast to confess it.



(f) Alone from the people.
#BCV:Luke 9:22
<h3><verse=Luke 9:22>Luke 9:22</verse></h3>




(5) Saying, The Son of man must suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders and chief priests
and scribes, and be slain, and be raised the third day.



(5) Christ himself attained to the heavenly glory, by the cross and invincible perseverance.
#BCV:Luke 9:23
<h3><verse=Luke 9:23>Luke 9:23</verse></h3>



And he said to [them] all, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his
cross (g) daily, and follow me.



(g) Even as one day follows another, so does one cross follow another, and the cross is by the figure
of speech metonymy taken for the miseries of this life: for to be hanged on the cross was the most
grievous and cruel punishment that there was amongst the Jews.
#BCV:Luke 9:28
<h3><verse=Luke 9:28>Luke 9:28</verse></h3>




(6) And it came to pass about an eight days after these sayings, he took Peter and John and James,
and went up into a mountain to pray.

<page=2570>(6) So that his disciples do not stumble at his debasing himself in his flesh, he teaches them that it is
voluntary, showing in addition for a moment the brightness of his glory.
#BCV:Luke 9:31
<h3><verse=Luke 9:31>Luke 9:31</verse></h3>



Who appeared in glory, and spake of his (h) decease which he should accomplish at Jerusalem.



(h) What death he would die in Jerusalem.
#BCV:Luke 9:36
<h3><verse=Luke 9:36>Luke 9:36</verse></h3>



And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone. And they kept [it] close, and told no man in (i)
those days any of those things which they had seen.



(i) Until Christ was risen again from the dead.
#BCV:Luke 9:37
<h3><verse=Luke 9:37>Luke 9:37</verse></h3>




(7) And it came to pass, that on the next day, when they were come down from the hill, much people
met him.



(7) Nothing offends Christ as much as incredulity, although he bears with it for a time.
#BCV:Luke 9:39
<h3><verse=Luke 9:39>Luke 9:39</verse></h3>



And, lo, a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth out; and it teareth him that he foameth again, and



(k) bruising him hardly departeth from him.



(k) As it happens in the falling sickness.
#BCV:Luke 9:43
<h3><verse=Luke 9:43>Luke 9:43</verse></h3>




(8) And they were all amazed at the mighty power of God. But while they wondered every one at all
things which Jesus did, he said unto his disciples,



(8) We have no reason to promise ourselves rest and quietness in this world, seeing that they
themselves who seemed to fawn upon Christ crucify him shortly after.
#BCV:Luke 9:44
<h3><verse=Luke 9:44>Luke 9:44</verse></h3>




(l) Let these sayings sink down into your ears: for the Son of man shall be delivered into the hands
of men.



(l) Give diligent ear to them, and once you have heard them see that you keep them.
#BCV:Luke 9:46
<h3><verse=Luke 9:46>Luke 9:46</verse></h3>


<page=2571>(9) Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of them should be greatest.



(9) Ambition results in dishonour, but the result of modest obedience is glory.
#BCV:Luke 9:49
<h3><verse=Luke 9:49>Luke 9:49</verse></h3>




(10) And John answered and said, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name; and we forbad
him, because he followeth not with us.



(10) Extraordinary things are neither rashly to be allowed nor condemned.
#BCV:Luke 9:51
<h3><verse=Luke 9:51>Luke 9:51</verse></h3>




(11) And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly (m)
set his face to go to Jerusalem,



(11) Christ goes willingly to death.



(m) Literally, "he hardened his face": that is, he resolved with himself to die, and therefore ventured
upon his journey and cast away all fear of death, and went on.
#BCV:Luke 9:54
<h3><verse=Luke 9:54>Luke 9:54</verse></h3>




(12) And when his disciples James and John saw [this], they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command
fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did?



(12) We must take heed of zeal and fond imitation which is not moderated, even in good causes, that
whatever we do, we do it to God's glory, and the profit of our neighbour.
#BCV:Luke 9:55
<h3><verse=Luke 9:55>Luke 9:55</verse></h3>



But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of (n) spirit ye are of.



(n) So the Hebrews say, that is, you do not know what will, mind, and counsel you are of: so the gifts
of God are called the spirit because they are given by God's Spirit, and so are the things that are
contrary to them also called the spirit, which proceed from the wicked spirit, such as the spirit of
covetousness, of pride, and madness.
#BCV:Luke 9:57
<h3><verse=Luke 9:57>Luke 9:57</verse></h3>


<page=2572>(13) And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain [man] said unto him, Lord, I will
follow thee whithersoever thou goest.



(13) Those who follow Christ must prepare themselves to endure all discomforts.
#BCV:Luke 9:59
<h3><verse=Luke 9:59>Luke 9:59</verse></h3>




(14) And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my
father.



(14) The calling of God ought to be preferred without any question, before all duties that we owe to
men.
#BCV:Luke 9:60
<h3><verse=Luke 9:60>Luke 9:60</verse></h3>



Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury (o) their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.



(o) Who, even though they live in this frail life of man, yet are strangers from the true life, which is
everlasting and heavenly.
#BCV:Luke 9:61
<h3><verse=Luke 9:61>Luke 9:61</verse></h3>




(15) And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are
at home at my house.



(15) Those who follow Christ must at once renounce all worldly cares.

<h2>Luke 10</h2>

#BCV:Luke 10:1
<h3><verse=Luke 10:1>Luke 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=2573>After (1) these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his
face into every city and place, whither he himself would come.



(1) The seventy are sent as the second forewarners of the coming of Christ.
#BCV:Luke 10:3
<h3><verse=Luke 10:3>Luke 10:3</verse></h3>




(2) Go your ways: behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves.



(2) The faithful ministers of the word are in this world as lambs among wolves: but if they are
diligent to do their duty, he who sent them will also preserve them.
#BCV:Luke 10:4
<h3><verse=Luke 10:4>Luke 10:4</verse></h3>



Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute (a) no man by the way.



(a) This is spoken figuratively, which manner of speech men use when they put down more in words
than is meant. This is usual among the Hebrews when they command a thing to be done speedily
without delay, as is found in (<bcv=II Ki 4:29>Kg2 4:29</bcv>); for in any other case courteous and gentle salutations are
matters of Christian duty: as for the calling, it was only for a limited time.
#BCV:Luke 10:6
<h3><verse=Luke 10:6>Luke 10:6</verse></h3>



And if (b) the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon it: if not, it shall turn to you again.



(b) So say the Hebrews: that is, he that favours the doctrine of peace and embraces it.
#BCV:Luke 10:7
<h3><verse=Luke 10:7>Luke 10:7</verse></h3>



And in the same house (c) remain, eating and drinking such things as they give: for the labourer is
worthy of his hire. Go not from house to house.



(c) Take up your lodging in that house which you enter into first, that is, do not be concerned about
comfortable lodging, as men do who plan to stay in a place a long time: for here that solemn
preaching of the gospel, which was used afterward when the Churches were settled, is not instituted:
but these are sent abroad to all the coasts of Judea to show them that the last jubilee is at hand.
#BCV:Luke 10:8
<h3><verse=Luke 10:8>Luke 10:8</verse></h3>



And into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you, (d) eat such things as are set before you:

<page=2574>(d) Be content with the food that is set before you.
#BCV:Luke 10:10
<h3><verse=Luke 10:10>Luke 10:10</verse></h3>




(3) But into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive you not, go your ways out into the streets of
the same, and say,



(3) God is a most severe avenger of the ministry of his gospel.
#BCV:Luke 10:17
<h3><verse=Luke 10:17>Luke 10:17</verse></h3>




(4) And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us (e)
through thy name.



(4) Neither the gift of miracles, neither any other excellent gift, but only our election gives us an
occasion of true joy. And only the publishing of the gospel is the destruction of Satan.



(e) For Christ's disciples used no absolute authority, but performed the miracles they did by calling
upon Christ's name.
#BCV:Luke 10:18
<h3><verse=Luke 10:18>Luke 10:18</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning (f) fall from heaven.



(f) Paul writes that the location of the devil and his angels is in the air, as is found in (<bcv=Eph 6:12>Eph 6:12</bcv>), and
he is said to be cast down from there by force, when his power is abolished by the voice of the
Gospel.
#BCV:Luke 10:19
<h3><verse=Luke 10:19>Luke 10:19</verse></h3>



Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the
enemy: and nothing shall by any means (g) hurt you.



(g) Will do you wrong.
#BCV:Luke 10:21
<h3><verse=Luke 10:21>Luke 10:21</verse></h3>




(5) In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth,
that thou hast hid these things from the (h) wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes:
even so, Father; for so it seemed good in thy sight.



(5) The Church is contemptible, if we consider its outward appearance, but the wisdom of God is
most marvellous in it.



(h) Of this world.
#BCV:Luke 10:22
<h3><verse=Luke 10:22>Luke 10:22</verse></h3>


<page=2575>(6) All things are delivered to me of my Father: and no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father;
and who the Father is, but the Son, and [he] to whom the Son will reveal [him].



(6) Whoever seeks the Father without the Son wanders out of the way.
#BCV:Luke 10:23
<h3><verse=Luke 10:23>Luke 10:23</verse></h3>




(7) And he turned him unto [his] disciples, and said privately, Blessed [are] the eyes which see the
things that ye see:



(7) The difference between the Old Testament and the New consists in the measure of revelation.
#BCV:Luke 10:25
<h3><verse=Luke 10:25>Luke 10:25</verse></h3>




(8) And, behold, (i) a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to
inherit eternal life?



(8) Faith does not take away but establishes the doctrine of the law.



(i) One of those who proclaimed himself to be learned in the rites and laws of Moses.
#BCV:Luke 10:29
<h3><verse=Luke 10:29>Luke 10:29</verse></h3>




(9) But he, willing (k) to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour?



(9) The law defines our neighbour as anyone at all that we may help.



(k) That is, to vouch his righteousness, or show that he was just, that is, void of all faults: and (Jam.
5:1-20) uses the word of justification in this sense.
#BCV:Luke 10:38
<h3><verse=Luke 10:38>Luke 10:38</verse></h3>




(10) Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman
named Martha received him into her house.



(10) Christ does not desire to be waited upon in a delicate manner, but to be heard diligently; this is
that which he especially requires.

<h2>Luke 11</h2>

#BCV:Luke 11:2
<h3><verse=Luke 11:2>Luke 11:2</verse></h3>

<page=2576>And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, (1) Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy
name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.



(1) A form of true prayer.
#BCV:Luke 11:3
<h3><verse=Luke 11:3>Luke 11:3</verse></h3>



Give us (a) day by day our daily bread.



(a) That is, as much as is needed for us this day, by which we are not prevented from having an
honest care for the maintenance of our lives; but that complaining care, which kills a number of
men, is cut off and restrained.
#BCV:Luke 11:5
<h3><verse=Luke 11:5>Luke 11:5</verse></h3>




(2) And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and
say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves;



(2) We must pray with faith.
#BCV:Luke 11:8
<h3><verse=Luke 11:8>Luke 11:8</verse></h3>



I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his (b)
importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth.



(b) Literally, "impudence": but that impudency which is spoken of here is not to be found fault with,
but is very commendable before God, for he is well pleased by such importunity.
#BCV:Luke 11:15
<h3><verse=Luke 11:15>Luke 11:15</verse></h3>




(3) But some of them said, He casteth out devils through Beelzebub the chief of the devils.



(3) An example of horrible blindness, and such as cannot be healed, when the power of God is
blasphemed by an evil conscience and pretended malice.
#BCV:Luke 11:17
<h3><verse=Luke 11:17>Luke 11:17</verse></h3>




(4) But he, knowing their thoughts, said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought
to desolation; and a house [divided] against a house falleth.

<page=2577>(4) The true way to know the true Christ from the false is this, that the true Christ has no harmony
or agreement with Satan: and once we know him it is left for us to acknowledge him.
#BCV:Luke 11:18
<h3><verse=Luke 11:18>Luke 11:18</verse></h3>



If Satan also be divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand? because ye say that I cast out
devils (c) through Beelzebub.



(c) By the name and power of Beelzebub.
#BCV:Luke 11:20
<h3><verse=Luke 11:20>Luke 11:20</verse></h3>



But if I with the (d) finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the kingdom of God is come upon you.



(d) That is, by the power of God: so it says in See<bcv=Exo 8:19> Exo 8:19</bcv>.
#BCV:Luke 11:21
<h3><verse=Luke 11:21>Luke 11:21</verse></h3>



When a strong man armed keepeth his (e) palace, his goods are in peace:



(e) The word properly signifies an open and empty room in front of a house, and so in translation is
taken for noblemen's houses.
#BCV:Luke 11:23
<h3><verse=Luke 11:23>Luke 11:23</verse></h3>




(5) He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth.



(5) Against indifferent men, and such as love to have a compromise, who seek means to reconcile
Christ and Satan together.
#BCV:Luke 11:24
<h3><verse=Luke 11:24>Luke 11:24</verse></h3>




(6) When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and
finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out.



(6) He that does not continue, but is in a worse case, than he that never began.
#BCV:Luke 11:27
<h3><verse=Luke 11:27>Luke 11:27</verse></h3>




(7) And it came to pass, as he spake these things, a certain woman of the company lifted up her
voice, and said unto him, Blessed [is] the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou hast sucked.



(7) Christ does not seek praise for himself, but in our salvation.
#BCV:Luke 11:33
<h3><verse=Luke 11:33>Luke 11:33</verse></h3>

#BCV:luk 11:33
<h3><verse=luk 11:33>luk 11:33</verse></h3>



on a candlestick, that they which come in may see the light.



(9) Our minds are therefore lightened with the knowledge of God, that we should give light unto
others, and therefore our main labour ought to be to pray for that light.
#BCV:Luke 11:37
<h3><verse=Luke 11:37>Luke 11:37</verse></h3>




(10) And as he spake, a certain Pharisee besought him to dine with him: and he went in, and sat
down to meat.



(10) The service of God consists not in outward cleanliness and planned rites or ceremonies, but in
the spiritual righteousness of the heart and charity.
#BCV:Luke 11:41
<h3><verse=Luke 11:41>Luke 11:41</verse></h3>



But rather give alms (f) of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you.



(f) That is, according to your ability: as one would say, instead of your extortion which hindered you
so that you could not eat cleanly, use charity, and in accordance with your ability be good to the poor,
and in this way will that which is within the platter be sanctified even though the platter is unwashed.
#BCV:Luke 11:42
<h3><verse=Luke 11:42>Luke 11:42</verse></h3>




(11) But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye (g) tithe mint and rue and (h) all manner of herbs, and pass
over (i) judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other
undone.



(11) It is the characteristic of hypocrites to stand firmly for little trifles and to let greater matters
pass.



(g) You decide by God's law that the tenth part is due to be paid.



(h) Of all types of herbs, some as Augustine expounds it in his Enchiridion to Laurence, chap. 99,
where he shows in like manner how that place of Paul, (God "will have all men to be saved"), (<bcv=1Ti 2:4>Ti1 2:4</bcv>), 
is to be expounded after the same manner.



(i) That is to say, that which is right and reasonable to do, for this word "judgment" contains the
commandments of the second table, and the other words, "the love of God", contain the
commandments of the first.

#BCV:Luke 11:43
<h3><verse=Luke 11:43>Luke 11:43</verse></h3>


<page=2579>(12) Woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye love the uppermost seats in the synagogues, and greetings in
the markets.



(12) Hypocrisy and ambition are commonly joined together.
#BCV:Luke 11:44
<h3><verse=Luke 11:44>Luke 11:44</verse></h3>




(13) Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are as graves which appear not, and the
men that walk over [them] are not aware [of them].



(13) Hypocrites deceive men with an outward show.
#BCV:Luke 11:45
<h3><verse=Luke 11:45>Luke 11:45</verse></h3>




(14) Then answered one of the lawyers, and said unto him, Master, thus saying thou reproachest us
also.



(14) Hypocrites are very severe against other men, but think that all things are lawful for themselves.
#BCV:Luke 11:47
<h3><verse=Luke 11:47>Luke 11:47</verse></h3>




(15) Woe unto you! for ye build the sepulchres of the prophets, and your fathers killed them.



(15) Hypocrites honour those saints when they are dead whom they persecute most cruelly when
they are alive.
#BCV:Luke 11:48
<h3><verse=Luke 11:48>Luke 11:48</verse></h3>



Truly (k) ye bear witness that ye allow the deeds of your fathers: for they indeed killed them, and ye
build their sepulchres.



(k) When you persecute God's servants like mad men, even as your fathers did, though you try and
cover it with a pretence of godliness, yet nonetheless, by beautifying the sepulchres of the prophets,
what else are you doing but glorying in your father's cruelty, and setting up monuments (as it were)
in glory and triumph of it?
#BCV:Luke 11:49
<h3><verse=Luke 11:49>Luke 11:49</verse></h3>



Therefore also said the wisdom of God, I will send them prophets and apostles, and [some] of them
they shall slay and (l) persecute:



(l) They will so vex them and trouble them, that at length they will banish them.
#BCV:Luke 11:50
<h3><verse=Luke 11:50>Luke 11:50</verse></h3>

#BCV:luk 11:50
<h3><verse=luk 11:50>luk 11:50</verse></h3>



required of this generation;



(m) That you may be called to give an account for it, yea, and be punished for the shedding of that
blood of the prophets.
#BCV:Luke 11:52
<h3><verse=Luke 11:52>Luke 11:52</verse></h3>




(16) Woe unto you, lawyers! for ye have (n) taken away the key of knowledge: ye entered not in
yourselves, and them that were entering in ye hindered.



(16) Those who ought to be the door keepers of the Church have for a long time mainly hindered
the people from entering into the knowledge of God.



(n) You have hidden and taken away, so that it cannot be found anywhere.
#BCV:Luke 11:53
<h3><verse=Luke 11:53>Luke 11:53</verse></h3>




(17) And as he said these things unto them, the scribes and the Pharisees began to urge [him]
vehemently, and to (o) provoke him to speak of many things:



(17) The more the world is reprehended, the worse it is, and yet we must not betray the truth.



(o) They proposed many questions to him, to draw something out of his mouth which they might
traitorously find fault with.

<h2>Luke 12</h2>

#BCV:Luke 12:1
<h3><verse=Luke 12:1>Luke 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=2581>In (1) the mean time, when there were gathered together (a) an innumerable multitude of people,
insomuch that they trode one upon another, he began to say unto his disciples first of all, Beware ye
of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.



(1) The faithful teachers of God's word, who are appointed by him for his people, must both take
good heed of those who corrupt the purity of doctrine with smooth speech, and also take pains
through the help of God to set forth sincere doctrine, openly and without fear.



(a) Literally, "ten thousand of people", a certain number which is given for an uncertain number.
#BCV:Luke 12:4
<h3><verse=Luke 12:4>Luke 12:4</verse></h3>




(2) And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them that kill the body, and after that have no
more that they can do.



(2) Although hypocrites have princes to execute their cruelty, yet there is no reason why we should
be afraid of them, even by the smallest amount that may be, seeing that they can do nothing except
that which pleases God, and God does not will anything that may be against the salvation of his
elect.
#BCV:Luke 12:5
<h3><verse=Luke 12:5>Luke 12:5</verse></h3>



But I will (b) forewarn you whom ye shall fear: Fear him, which after he hath killed hath power to
cast into hell; yea, I say unto you, Fear him.



(b) He warns them of dangers that presently hang over their heads, for those that come upon one
suddenly make a greater wound.
#BCV:Luke 12:8
<h3><verse=Luke 12:8>Luke 12:8</verse></h3>




(3) Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before men, him shall the Son of man also
confess before the angels of God:



(3) Great is the reward of a constant confession: and horrible is the punishment for denying Christ;
yea, it will be impossible to call the punishment back again, if on purpose, both with mouth and
heart we blaspheme a known truth.
#BCV:Luke 12:11
<h3><verse=Luke 12:11>Luke 12:11</verse></h3>


<page=2582>(4) And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and [unto] magistrates, and powers, take ye no
thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall say:



(4) It is a great and difficult conflict to confess the truth, yet God who can do all things and is
almighty will provide strength to the weakest who struggle greatly and do battle in God's appointed
time.
#BCV:Luke 12:13
<h3><verse=Luke 12:13>Luke 12:13</verse></h3>




(5) And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak to my brother, that he divide the
inheritance with me.



(5) For three reasons Christ would not be a judge to divide an inheritance. First, because he would
not support and uphold the fleshly opinion that the Jews had of Messiah: secondly, because he
wanted to distinguish the civil government from the ecclesiastical: thirdly, to teach us to beware of
those which abuse the show of the gospel, and also the name of ministers, for their own private
well-being.
#BCV:Luke 12:15
<h3><verse=Luke 12:15>Luke 12:15</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of (c) covetousness: for a man's life (d) consisteth
not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.



(c) By covetousness is meant that greedy desire to get, commonly causing hurt to other men.



(d) God is the author and preserver of man's life; goods are not.
#BCV:Luke 12:16
<h3><verse=Luke 12:16>Luke 12:16</verse></h3>




(6) And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The (e) ground of a certain rich man brought forth
plentifully:



(6) There are none more mad than rich men who depend upon their riches.



(e) Or rather country, for here is set forth a man that possesses not only a piece of ground, but a
whole country, as they do who join house to house, and field to field; (<bcv=Isa 5:8>Isa 5:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Luke 12:17
<h3><verse=Luke 12:17>Luke 12:17</verse></h3>



And he (f) thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow
my fruits?



(f) Reckoned with himself, which is the characteristic of covetous surly men who spend their life in
those trifles.
#BCV:Luke 12:19
<h3><verse=Luke 12:19>Luke 12:19</verse></h3>

<page=2583>And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat,
drink, [and] (g) be merry.



(g) Be merry and make good cheer.
#BCV:Luke 12:21
<h3><verse=Luke 12:21>Luke 12:21</verse></h3>



So [is] he that layeth up treasure (h) for himself, and is not rich toward God.



(h) Caring for no man but for himself, and making sure to trust in himself.
#BCV:Luke 12:22
<h3><verse=Luke 12:22>Luke 12:22</verse></h3>




(7) And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye
shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on.



(7) Earnestly thinking upon the providence of God is a present remedy for this life against the most
foolish and wasting worry of men.
#BCV:Luke 12:29
<h3><verse=Luke 12:29>Luke 12:29</verse></h3>



And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither (i) be ye of doubtful mind.



(i) A metaphor taken of things that hang in the air, for those that care too much for this worldly life,
and rely upon the arm of man, always have wavering and doubtful minds, swaying sometimes this
way, and sometimes that way.
#BCV:Luke 12:31
<h3><verse=Luke 12:31>Luke 12:31</verse></h3>




(8) But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you.



(8) They will lack nothing who are diligent for the kingdom of heaven.
#BCV:Luke 12:32
<h3><verse=Luke 12:32>Luke 12:32</verse></h3>




(9) Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.



(9) It is a foolish thing not to look for small things at the hands of him who freely gives us the
greatest things.
#BCV:Luke 12:33
<h3><verse=Luke 12:33>Luke 12:33</verse></h3>


<page=2584>(10) Sell that ye have, and give (k) alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the
heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.



(10) A godly bountifulness is a proper way to get true riches.



(k) This is the figure of speech metonymy, for by this word "alms" is meant that compassion and
friendliness of a heart that cares tenderly for the misery and poor condition of a man, and shows
this feeling by some gift, and has the name given to it in the Greek language of mercy and
compassion: and therefore he is said to give alms who gives something to another, and gives to the
poor, showing by this that he pities their poor condition.
#BCV:Luke 12:35
<h3><verse=Luke 12:35>Luke 12:35</verse></h3>




(11) Let your loins be girded about, and [your] lights burning;



(11) The life of the faithful servants of God in this world is certainly a diligent journey, having the
light of the word going before the journey.
#BCV:Luke 12:40
<h3><verse=Luke 12:40>Luke 12:40</verse></h3>




(12) Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.



(12) None need to watch more than they that have some degree of honour in the household of God.
#BCV:Luke 12:42
<h3><verse=Luke 12:42>Luke 12:42</verse></h3>



And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom [his] lord shall make ruler over
his household, to give [them their] (l) portion of meat in due season?



(l) That is, every month the measure of corn that was given to them.
#BCV:Luke 12:48
<h3><verse=Luke 12:48>Luke 12:48</verse></h3>



But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few [stripes].
For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have
committed much, of him they will ask (m) the more.



(m) More than the one who did not receive as much.
#BCV:Luke 12:49
<h3><verse=Luke 12:49>Luke 12:49</verse></h3>




(13) I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?



(13) The gospel is the only reason of peace between the godly, and so it is the occasion of great
trouble among the wicked.
#BCV:Luke 12:54
<h3><verse=Luke 12:54>Luke 12:54</verse></h3>


<page=2585>(14) And he said also to the people, When ye see a cloud (n) rise out of the west, straightway ye say,
There cometh a shower; and so it is.



(14) Men who are very quick to see with regard to earthly things are blind with regard to those
things which pertain to the heavenly life, and this through their own malice.



(n) Which appears, and gathers itself together in that part of the air.
#BCV:Luke 12:57
<h3><verse=Luke 12:57>Luke 12:57</verse></h3>




(15) Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is right?



(15) Men that are blinded with the love of themselves, and therefore are detestable and stubborn,
will bear the punishment of their folly.
#BCV:Luke 12:58
<h3><verse=Luke 12:58>Luke 12:58</verse></h3>



When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate, [as thou art] in the way, give diligence that
thou mayest be delivered from him; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the



(o) officer, and the officer cast thee into prison.



(o) To him that has to demand and gather the fines from those who were fined at the discretion of
the court, people who had wrongly troubled men: moreover, the magistrate's officers make those
who are condemned pay what they owe, yea and often if they are obstinate, they not only take the
fine, but also imprison them.

<h2>Luke 13</h2>

#BCV:Luke 13:1
<h3><verse=Luke 13:1>Luke 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=2586>There (1) were present at that season some that told him of the Galilaeans, whose blood (a) Pilate
had mingled with their sacrifices.



(1) We must not rejoice at the just punishment of others, but rather we should be instructed by it to
repent.



(a) Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea almost ten years, and about the fourth year of his
government, which might be about the fifteenth year of Tiberius' reign, Christ finished the work of
our redemption by his death.
#BCV:Luke 13:4
<h3><verse=Luke 13:4>Luke 13:4</verse></h3>



Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in (b) Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were
sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem?



(b) That is, in the place, or river: for Siloam was a small river from which the conduits of the city
came; see (<bcv=John 9:7>Joh 9:7</bcv>;<bcv=Isa 8:6> Isa 8:6</bcv>); and therefore it was a tower or a castle, built upon the conduit side, which
fell down suddenly and killed some.
#BCV:Luke 13:6
<h3><verse=Luke 13:6>Luke 13:6</verse></h3>




(2) He spake also this parable; A certain [man] had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came
and sought fruit thereon, and found none.



(2) Great and long suffering is the patience of God, but yet he eventually executes judgment.
#BCV:Luke 13:7
<h3><verse=Luke 13:7>Luke 13:7</verse></h3>



Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this
fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why (c) cumbereth it the ground?



(c) Make the ground barren in that part which is otherwise good for vines.
#BCV:Luke 13:10
<h3><verse=Luke 13:10>Luke 13:10</verse></h3>




(3) And he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath.



(3) Christ came to deliver us from the hand of Satan.
#BCV:Luke 13:11
<h3><verse=Luke 13:11>Luke 13:11</verse></h3>

<page=2587>And, behold, there was a woman which had a (d) spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed
together, and could in no wise lift up [herself].



(d) Troubled with a disease which Satan caused.
#BCV:Luke 13:12
<h3><verse=Luke 13:12>Luke 13:12</verse></h3>



And when Jesus saw her, he called [her to him], and said unto her, Woman, thou art (e) loosed from
thine infirmity.



(e) For Satan had the woman bound, as if she had been in chains, to the extent that for eighteen
years time she could not hold up her head.
#BCV:Luke 13:14
<h3><verse=Luke 13:14>Luke 13:14</verse></h3>




(4) And the (f) ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because that Jesus had healed on
the sabbath day, and said unto the people, There are six days in which men ought to work: in them
therefore come and be healed, and not on the sabbath day.



(4) A graphic image of hypocrisy, and the reward of it.



(f) One of the rulers of the synagogue, for it appears that there were many rulers of the synagogue,
see (<bcv=Mar 5:22>Mar 5:22</bcv>) (<bcv=Acts 13:15>Act 13:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Luke 13:19
<h3><verse=Luke 13:19>Luke 13:19</verse></h3>




(5) It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and cast into his garden; and it grew, and
waxed a great tree; and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it.



(5) God begins his kingdom with small beginnings so that its growth, which is not looked for, may
better set forth his power.
#BCV:Luke 13:22
<h3><verse=Luke 13:22>Luke 13:22</verse></h3>




(6) And he went through the cities and villages, teaching, and journeying toward Jerusalem.



(6) Against those who had rather err with many than go right with a few, and because of this
through their own indifference they are shut out of the kingdom of God.
#BCV:Luke 13:26
<h3><verse=Luke 13:26>Luke 13:26</verse></h3>




(7) Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our
streets.

<page=2588>(7) It is vain to be in the Church if one is not of the Church; and whether or not one is in the
Church is shown by the purity of life.
#BCV:Luke 13:28
<h3><verse=Luke 13:28>Luke 13:28</verse></h3>




(8) There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob,
and all the prophets, in the kingdom of God, and you [yourselves] thrust out.



(8) The casting off of the Jews and the calling of the Gentiles is foretold.
#BCV:Luke 13:29
<h3><verse=Luke 13:29>Luke 13:29</verse></h3>



And they shall come from the (g) east, and [from] the west, and from the north, and [from] the
south, and shall sit down in the kingdom of God.



(g) From all the corners of the world, and the places mentioned here are four of the main ones.
#BCV:Luke 13:31
<h3><verse=Luke 13:31>Luke 13:31</verse></h3>




(9) The same day there came certain of the Pharisees, saying unto him, Get thee out, and depart
hence: for Herod will kill thee.



(9) We must go forward in regards to our calling, through the midst of terrors, whether they be real
or imagined.
#BCV:Luke 13:32
<h3><verse=Luke 13:32>Luke 13:32</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, Go ye, and tell that (h) fox, Behold, I cast out devils, and I do cures (i) to
day and to morrow, and the third [day] I shall be (k) perfected.



(h) That deceitful and treacherous man.



(i) That is, a small time, and Theophylact says it is a proverb: or else by "to day" we may understand
the present time, and by tomorrow the time to come, meaning by this the entire time of his ministry
and office.



(k) That is, when the sacrifice for sin is finished.
#BCV:Luke 13:33
<h3><verse=Luke 13:33>Luke 13:33</verse></h3>




(10) Nevertheless I must walk to day, and to morrow, and the [day] following: for it cannot be that a
prophet perish out of Jerusalem.



(10) Nowhere else are there more cruel enemies of the godly than within the sanctuary and Church
itself: but God sees it and will in his time have an account for it from them.
#BCV:Luke 13:34
<h3><verse=Luke 13:34>Luke 13:34</verse></h3>

<page=2589>O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how
often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen [doth gather] her (l) brood under [her]
wings, and ye would not!



(l) Literally, "the nest": now the brood of chickens is the nest.

<h2>Luke 14</h2>

#BCV:Luke 14:1
<h3><verse=Luke 14:1>Luke 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=2590>And (1) it came to pass, as he went into the house of (a) one of the chief Pharisees to eat bread on
the sabbath day, that they watched him.



(1) The law of the very sabbath ought not to hinder the offices of charity.



(a) Either one of the elders, whom they called the sanhedrin, or one of the chiefs of the synagogue:
for all the Pharisees were not chief men of the synagogue (<bcv=John 7:48>Joh 7:48</bcv>); for this word Pharisee was the
name of a sect, though it appears by viewing the whole history of the matter that the Pharisees had
much authority.
#BCV:Luke 14:7
<h3><verse=Luke 14:7>Luke 14:7</verse></h3>




(2) And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden, when he marked how they chose out the
chief rooms; saying unto them,



(2) The reward of pride is dishonour, and the reward of true modesty is glory.
#BCV:Luke 14:12
<h3><verse=Luke 14:12>Luke 14:12</verse></h3>




(3) Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy
friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor [thy] rich neighbours; lest they also bid thee again,
and a recompence be made thee.



(3) Against those who spend their goods either for the glory of man or for hope of recompence,
whereas Christian charity considers only the glory of God, and the profit of our neighbour.
#BCV:Luke 14:18
<h3><verse=Luke 14:18>Luke 14:18</verse></h3>




(4) And they all with (b) one [consent] began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought
a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused.



(4) For the most part even those to whom God has revealed himself are so mad, that any help which
they have received of God they willingly turn into obstructions and hindrances.



(b) On purpose, and a thing agreed upon before: for though they give different reasons why they
cannot come, yet all of them agree in this, that they have their excuses so that they may not come to
supper.
#BCV:Luke 14:21
<h3><verse=Luke 14:21>Luke 14:21</verse></h3>

<page=2591>So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry
said to his servant, Go out quickly into the (c) streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the
poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.



(c) Wide and broad areas.
#BCV:Luke 14:25
<h3><verse=Luke 14:25>Luke 14:25</verse></h3>




(5) And there went great multitudes with him: and he turned, and said unto them,



(5) Even those affections which are in themselves worthy of praise and commendation must be
controlled and kept in order, so that godliness may have the upper hand and have preeminence.
#BCV:Luke 14:26
<h3><verse=Luke 14:26>Luke 14:26</verse></h3>



If any [man] come to me, and (d) hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and
brethren, and sisters, yea, and his own life also, he cannot be my disciple.



(d) If anything stands between God and him, as Theophylact says: and therefore these words are
spoken in a comparative way, and not by themselves.
#BCV:Luke 14:27
<h3><verse=Luke 14:27>Luke 14:27</verse></h3>




(6) And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after me, cannot be my disciple.



(6) The true followers of Christ must at once build and fight, and therefore be ready and prepared
to endure all types of miseries.
#BCV:Luke 14:28
<h3><verse=Luke 14:28>Luke 14:28</verse></h3>



For which of you, intending to build a tower, (e) sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost,
whether he have [sufficient] to finish [it]?



(e) At home, and calculates all his costs before he begins the work.
#BCV:Luke 14:34
<h3><verse=Luke 14:34>Luke 14:34</verse></h3>




(7) Salt [is] good: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be seasoned?



(7) The disciples of Christ must be wise, both for themselves and for others: otherwise they become
the most foolish of all.

<h2>Luke 15</h2>

#BCV:Luke 15:1
<h3><verse=Luke 15:1>Luke 15:1</verse></h3>

<page=2592>Then drew near unto (1) him (a) all the publicans and sinners for to hear him.



(1) We must not give up on those who have gone out of the way, but according to the example of
Christ we must take great pains for them.



(a) Some publicans and sinners came to Christ from all areas.
#BCV:Luke 15:11
<h3><verse=Luke 15:11>Luke 15:11</verse></h3>




(2) And he said, A certain man had two sons:



(2) Men by their voluntary falling from God, having robbed themselves of the benefits which they
received from him, cast themselves headlong into infinite calamities: but God of his singular
goodness, offering himself freely to those whom he called to repentance, through the greatness of
their misery with which they were humbled, not only gently receives them, but also enriches them
with far greater gifts and blesses them with the greatest bliss.
#BCV:Luke 15:17
<h3><verse=Luke 15:17>Luke 15:17</verse></h3>




(3) And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread
enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!



(3) The beginning of repentance is the acknowledging of the mercy of God, which encourages us to
hope expectantly.
#BCV:Luke 15:18
<h3><verse=Luke 15:18>Luke 15:18</verse></h3>



I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against (b) heaven, and
before thee,



(b) Against God, because he is said to dwell in heaven.
#BCV:Luke 15:21
<h3><verse=Luke 15:21>Luke 15:21</verse></h3>




(4) And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no
more worthy to be called thy son.



(4) In true repentance there is a consciousness of our sins, joined with sorrow and shame, and from
this springs a confession, after which follows forgiveness.
#BCV:Luke 15:25
<h3><verse=Luke 15:25>Luke 15:25</verse></h3>

#BCV:luk 15:25
<h3><verse=luk 15:25>luk 15:25</verse></h3>



and dancing.



(5) Those who truly fear God desire to have all men join them in fearing him.

<h2>Luke 16</h2>

#BCV:Luke 16:1
<h3><verse=Luke 16:1>Luke 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=2594>And he said also unto his disciples, (1) There was a certain rich man, which had a steward; and the
same was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods.



(1) Seeing that men often purchase friendship for themselves at the expense of others, we are to be
ashamed if we do not please the Lord or procure the good will of our neighbours with the goods
which the Lord has bestowed on us freely and liberally, making sure that by this means riches, which
are often occasions of sin, are used for another end and purpose.
#BCV:Luke 16:8
<h3><verse=Luke 16:8>Luke 16:8</verse></h3>



And the lord commended (a) the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the (b) children of
this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.



(a) This parable does not approve the steward's evil dealing, for it was definitely theft: but parables
are set forth to show a thing in a secret way, and as it were, to present the truth by means of an
allegory, even though it may not be exact: so that by this parable Christ means to teach us that
worldly men are more clever in the affairs of this world than the children of God are diligent for
everlasting life.



(b) Men that are given to this present life, contrary to whom are the children of light: Paul calls the
former carnal and the latter spiritual.
#BCV:Luke 16:9
<h3><verse=Luke 16:9>Luke 16:9</verse></h3>



And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon (c) of unrighteousness; that, when
ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting (d) habitations.



(c) This is not spoken of goods that are gotten wrongly, for God will have our bountifulness to the
poor proceed and come from a good fountain: but he calls those things riches of iniquity which
men use wickedly.



(d) That is, the poor Christians: for they are the inheritors of these habitations; Theophylact.
#BCV:Luke 16:10
<h3><verse=Luke 16:10>Luke 16:10</verse></h3>




(2) He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is
unjust also in much.



(2) We ought to take heed that we do not abuse our earthly work and duty and so be deprived of
heavenly gifts: for how can they properly use spiritual gifts who abuse worldly things?
#BCV:Luke 16:11
<h3><verse=Luke 16:11>Luke 16:11</verse></h3>

<page=2595>If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust
the (c) true [riches]?



(c) That is, heavenly and true riches, which are contrary to material wealth which is worldly and
quickly departing.
#BCV:Luke 16:12
<h3><verse=Luke 16:12>Luke 16:12</verse></h3>



And if ye have not been faithful in that which is (f) another man's, who shall give you that which is
your own?



(f) In worldly goods, which are called other men's because they are not ours, but rather entrusted to
our care.
#BCV:Luke 16:13
<h3><verse=Luke 16:13>Luke 16:13</verse></h3>




(3) No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he
will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.



(3) No man can love God and riches simultaneously.
#BCV:Luke 16:15
<h3><verse=Luke 16:15>Luke 16:15</verse></h3>




(4) And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your
hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.



(4) Our sins are not hidden to God, although they may be hidden to men, yea although they may be
hidden to those who committed them.
#BCV:Luke 16:16
<h3><verse=Luke 16:16>Luke 16:16</verse></h3>




(5) The law and the prophets [were] until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and
every man presseth into it.



(5) The Pharisees despised the excellency of the new covenant with respect to the old, being
ignorant of the perfect righteousness of the law; and Christ declares by the seventh commandment
how they were false expounders of the law.
#BCV:Luke 16:18
<h3><verse=Luke 16:18>Luke 16:18</verse></h3>

<page=2596>Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery: and whosoever
marrieth her (g) that is put away from [her] husband committeth adultery.



(g) They that gather by this passage that a man cannot be married again after he has divorced his
wife for adultery, while she lives, reason incorrectly: for Christ speaks of those divorces which the
Jews had which were not because of adultery, for adulterers were put to death by the law.
#BCV:Luke 16:19
<h3><verse=Luke 16:19>Luke 16:19</verse></h3>




(6) There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in (h) purple and fine linen, and fared
sumptuously every day:



(6) The end of the poverty and misery of the godly will be everlasting joy, as the end of riotous
living and the cruel pride of the rich will be everlasting misery, without any hope of mercy.



(h) Very gorgeously and sumptuously, for purple garments were costly, and this fine linen, which was
a kind of linen that came out of Achaia, was as precious as gold.
#BCV:Luke 16:23
<h3><verse=Luke 16:23>Luke 16:23</verse></h3>



And in hell (i) he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his
bosom.



(i) Heavenly and spiritual things are expressed and set forth using language fit for our senses.
#BCV:Luke 16:27
<h3><verse=Luke 16:27>Luke 16:27</verse></h3>




(7) Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father's house:



(7) Seeing that we have a most sure rule to live by, laid forth for us in the word of God, men seek
rashly and vainly for other revelations.

<h2>Luke 17</h2>

#BCV:Luke 17:1
<h3><verse=Luke 17:1>Luke 17:1</verse></h3>

<page=2597>Then said he unto the disciples, (1) It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe [unto him],
through whom they come!



(1) The Church is of necessity subject to offences, but the Lord will not suffer them unpunished, if
any of the least be offended.
#BCV:Luke 17:3
<h3><verse=Luke 17:3>Luke 17:3</verse></h3>




(2) Take heed to yourselves: If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; and if he repent,
forgive him.



(2) Our reprehensions must be just and proceed from love and charity.
#BCV:Luke 17:5
<h3><verse=Luke 17:5>Luke 17:5</verse></h3>




(3) And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.



(3) God will never be utterly lacking to the godly (although he may not be as thorough with them as
they wish) even in those difficulties which cannot be overcome by man's reason.
#BCV:Luke 17:6
<h3><verse=Luke 17:6>Luke 17:6</verse></h3>



And the Lord said, If ye had faith as (a) a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine
tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.



(a) If you had no more faith, but the quantity of the grain of mustard seed.
#BCV:Luke 17:7
<h3><verse=Luke 17:7>Luke 17:7</verse></h3>




(4) But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when
he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat?



(4) Seeing that God may rightfully claim for himself both us and all that is ours, he cannot be
indebted to us for anything, although we labour mightily until we die.
#BCV:Luke 17:10
<h3><verse=Luke 17:10>Luke 17:10</verse></h3>




(5) So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are
unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.

<page=2598>(5) No matter how perfectly we may keep the law, it deserves no reward.
#BCV:Luke 17:11
<h3><verse=Luke 17:11>Luke 17:11</verse></h3>




(6) And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and
Galilee.



(6) Christ does good even to those who will be unthankful, but the benefits of God to salvation only
profit those who are thankful.
#BCV:Luke 17:20
<h3><verse=Luke 17:20>Luke 17:20</verse></h3>




(7) And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he
answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with (b) observation:



(7) The kingdom of God is not discerned by many although it is most present before their eyes,
because they foolishly persuade themselves that it is to come with outward pomp.



(b) With any outward pomp and show of majesty to be known by: for there were still many plain
and evident tokens by which men might have understood that Christ was the Messiah, whose
kingdom had been so long looked for: but he speaks in this place of those signs which the Pharisees
dreamed of, who looked for an earthly Messianic kingdom.
#BCV:Luke 17:21
<h3><verse=Luke 17:21>Luke 17:21</verse></h3>



Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is (c) within you.



(c) You look around for the Messiah as though he were absent, but he is amongst you in the midst
of you.
#BCV:Luke 17:22
<h3><verse=Luke 17:22>Luke 17:22</verse></h3>




(8) And he said unto the disciples, The days will come, when ye shall desire to see (d) one of the
days of the Son of man, and ye shall not see [it].



(8) We often neglect those things when they are present which we afterward desire when they are
gone, but in vain.



(d) The time will come when you will seek for the Son of Man with great sorrow of heart, and will
not find him.
#BCV:Luke 17:23
<h3><verse=Luke 17:23>Luke 17:23</verse></h3>




(9) And they shall say to you, See here; or, see there: go not after [them], nor follow [them].

<page=2599>(9) Christ forewarns us that false Christs will come, and that his glory will suddenly be spread far and
wide through the world after the shame of the cross is put out and extinguished.
#BCV:Luke 17:26
<h3><verse=Luke 17:26>Luke 17:26</verse></h3>




(10) And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man.



(10) The world will be taken by surprise with the sudden judgment of God, and therefore the
faithful ought to continually watch.
#BCV:Luke 17:31
<h3><verse=Luke 17:31>Luke 17:31</verse></h3>




(11) In that day, he which shall be upon the housetop, and his stuff in the house, let him not come
down to take it away: and he that is in the field, let him likewise not return back.



(11) We must pay careful attention that neither distrust nor the enticements of this world, nor any
consideration of friendship hinder us in the least way.
#BCV:Luke 17:33
<h3><verse=Luke 17:33>Luke 17:33</verse></h3>



Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it; and whosoever shall lose his life shall (e) preserve it.



(e) That is, will save it, as Matthew expounds it: for the life that is spoken of here is everlasting
salvation.
#BCV:Luke 17:37
<h3><verse=Luke 17:37>Luke 17:37</verse></h3>




(12) And they answered and said unto him, Where, Lord? And he said unto them, Wheresoever the
body [is], thither will the eagles be gathered together.



(12) The only way to continue is to cleave to Christ.

<h2>Luke 18</h2>

#BCV:Luke 18:1
<h3><verse=Luke 18:1>Luke 18:1</verse></h3>

<page=2600>And (1) he spake a parable unto them [to this end], that men ought always to pray, and not to (a)
faint;



(1) God will have us to continue in prayer, not to weary us, but to exercise us; therefore we must
fight against impatience so that a long delay does not cause us to quit our praying.



(a) Yield to afflictions and adversities as those do who have lost heart.
#BCV:Luke 18:2
<h3><verse=Luke 18:2>Luke 18:2</verse></h3>




(b) Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man:



(b) He does not compare things that are of equal stature, but the less with the greater: If a man
receives what is rightfully his at the hands of a most unrighteous judge, much more will the prayers
of the godly prevail before God.
#BCV:Luke 18:5
<h3><verse=Luke 18:5>Luke 18:5</verse></h3>



Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she (c) weary
me.




(c) Literally, "beat me down with her blows", and it is a metaphor taken of wrestlers who beat their
adversaries with their fists or clubs: in the same way those that are persistent beat the judge's ears
with their crying out, even as it were with blows.
#BCV:Luke 18:7
<h3><verse=Luke 18:7>Luke 18:7</verse></h3>



And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though (d) he bear long
with them?



(d) Though he seems slow in avenging the harm done to his own.
#BCV:Luke 18:9
<h3><verse=Luke 18:9>Luke 18:9</verse></h3>




(2) And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and
despised others:



(2) Two things especially make our prayers void and of no effect: confidence of our own
righteousness, and our contempt of others; but a humble heart is contrary to both of these.
#BCV:Luke 18:11
<h3><verse=Luke 18:11>Luke 18:11</verse></h3>

#BCV:luk 18:11
<h3><verse=luk 18:11>luk 18:11</verse></h3>



[are], extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican.



(3) Although we confess that whatever we have, we have it from God, yet we are despised by God as
proud and arrogant if we put even the least trust in our own works before God.
#BCV:Luke 18:13
<h3><verse=Luke 18:13>Luke 18:13</verse></h3>



And the publican, standing (e) afar off, would not lift up so much as [his] eyes unto heaven, but
smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.



(e) Far from the Pharisee in a lower place.
#BCV:Luke 18:15
<h3><verse=Luke 18:15>Luke 18:15</verse></h3>




(f) And they brought unto him also infants, that he would touch them: (4) but when [his] disciples
saw [it], they rebuked them.



(f) The children were tender and young in that they were brought, which appears more evidently in
that they were infants. (Ed.) (4) To judge or think of Christ after the reason of the flesh is the cause
of infinite corruptions.
#BCV:Luke 18:16
<h3><verse=Luke 18:16>Luke 18:16</verse></h3>




(5) But Jesus (g) called them [unto him], and said, Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid
them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.



(5) The elect children of the faithful are included in the free covenant of God. (Ed.)



(g) Those that carried the children, whom the disciples drove away.
#BCV:Luke 18:17
<h3><verse=Luke 18:17>Luke 18:17</verse></h3>




(6) Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no
wise enter therein.



(6) Childlike innocence is an ornament of Christians.
#BCV:Luke 18:21
<h3><verse=Luke 18:21>Luke 18:21</verse></h3>




(7) And he said, All these have I kept from my youth up.



(7) The enticement of riches carries many away from the right way.
#BCV:Luke 18:24
<h3><verse=Luke 18:24>Luke 18:24</verse></h3>


<page=2602>(8) And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches
enter into the kingdom of God!



(8) To be both rich and godly is a singular gift of God.
#BCV:Luke 18:29
<h3><verse=Luke 18:29>Luke 18:29</verse></h3>




(9) And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or
brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake,



(9) They become the richest of all who do not refuse to be poor for Christ's sake.
#BCV:Luke 18:31
<h3><verse=Luke 18:31>Luke 18:31</verse></h3>




(10) Then he took [unto him] the twelve, and said unto them, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all
things that are written by the prophets concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished.



(10) As sure and certain as persecution is, so sure is the glory which remains for the conquerors.
#BCV:Luke 18:34
<h3><verse=Luke 18:34>Luke 18:34</verse></h3>



And they understood (h) none of these things: and this saying was hid from them, neither knew they
the things which were spoken.



(h) By this we see how ignorant the disciples were.
#BCV:Luke 18:35
<h3><verse=Luke 18:35>Luke 18:35</verse></h3>




(11) And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way
side begging:



(11) Christ shows by a visible miracle that he is the light of the world.
#BCV:Luke 18:39
<h3><verse=Luke 18:39>Luke 18:39</verse></h3>




(12) And they which went before rebuked him, that he should hold his peace: but he cried so much
the more, [Thou] Son of David, have mercy on me.



(12) The more snares and hindrances that Satan lays in our way, even by those who profess Christ's
name, so much the more ought we to go forward.

<h2>Luke 19</h2>

#BCV:Luke 19:1
<h3><verse=Luke 19:1>Luke 19:1</verse></h3>

<page=2603>And (1) [Jesus] entered and passed through Jericho.



(1) Christ especially guides by his grace those who seem to be furthest from it.
#BCV:Luke 19:2
<h3><verse=Luke 19:2>Luke 19:2</verse></h3>



And, behold, [there was] a man named Zacchaeus, which was the (a) chief among the publicans, and
he was rich.



(a) The overseer and head of the publicans who were there together: for the publicans were divided
into companies, as we may gather from many places in the orations of Cicero.
#BCV:Luke 19:7
<h3><verse=Luke 19:7>Luke 19:7</verse></h3>




(2) And when they saw [it], they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that
is a sinner.



(2) The world forsakes the grace of God, and yet is unwilling that it should be bestowed upon
others.
#BCV:Luke 19:8
<h3><verse=Luke 19:8>Luke 19:8</verse></h3>




(3) And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the
poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by (b) false accusation, I restore [him] fourfold.



(3) The example of true repentance is known by the effect.



(b) By falsely accusing any man: and this agrees most fitly to the master of the tax gatherers: for
commonly they have this practice among them when they rob and spoil the commonwealth, that
they claim to be concerned for nothing else except the profit of the commonwealth, and under this
pretence they are thieves, and to such an extent that if men reprove them and try to redress their
robbery and thievery, they cry out that the commonwealth is hindered.
#BCV:Luke 19:9
<h3><verse=Luke 19:9>Luke 19:9</verse></h3>



And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a (c) son
of Abraham.



(c) Beloved of God, one that walks in the steps of Abraham's faith: and we gather that salvation
came to that house because they received the blessing as Abraham had. (Ed.)
#BCV:Luke 19:11
<h3><verse=Luke 19:11>Luke 19:11</verse></h3>


<page=2604>(4) And as they heard these things, he added and spake a parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem,
and because they thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear.



(4) We must patiently wait for the judgment of God which will be revealed in his time.
#BCV:Luke 19:13
<h3><verse=Luke 19:13>Luke 19:13</verse></h3>




(5) And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I
come.



(5) There are three sorts of men in the Church: the one sort fall from Christ whom they do not see;
the other, according to their God given position, bestow the gifts which they have received from
God to his glory, with great pains and diligence; the third live idly and do no good. As for the first,
the Lord when he comes will justly punish them in his time; the second he will bless according to
the pains which they have taken; and as for the slothful and idle persons, he will punish them like the
first.
#BCV:Luke 19:16
<h3><verse=Luke 19:16>Luke 19:16</verse></h3>



Then came the first, saying, Lord, (d) thy pound hath gained ten pounds.



(d) This was a piece of money which the Greeks used, and was worth about one hundred pence,
which is about ten crowns.
#BCV:Luke 19:20
<h3><verse=Luke 19:20>Luke 19:20</verse></h3>




(6) And another came, saying, Lord, behold, [here is] thy pound, which I have kept laid up in a
napkin:



(6) Against those who idly spend their life in deliberating and in contemplation.
#BCV:Luke 19:23
<h3><verse=Luke 19:23>Luke 19:23</verse></h3>



Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the (e) bank, that at my coming I might have
required mine own with usury?



(e) To the bankers and money changers. Usury or loaning money at interest is strictly forbidden by
the Bible, (<bcv=Exo 22:25-27>Exo 22:25-27</bcv>;<bcv=Deu 23:19-20> Deu 23:19-20</bcv>). Even a rate as low as one per cent interest was disallowed,



(<bcv=Neh 5:11>Neh 5:11</bcv>). This servant had already told two lies. First he said the master was an austere or harsh
man. This is a lie for the Lord is merciful and gracious. Next he called his master a thief because he
reaped where he did not sow. Finally the master said to him that why did you not add insult to injury
<page=2605>and loan the money out at interest so you could call your master a "usurer" too! If the servant had
done this, his master would have been responsible for his servant's actions and guilty of usury. (Ed.)
#BCV:Luke 19:28
<h3><verse=Luke 19:28>Luke 19:28</verse></h3>



And when he had thus spoken, (f) he went before, ascending up to Jerusalem.



(f) The disciples were staggered and stopped by what Christ said, but Christ goes on boldly even
though death was before his eyes.
#BCV:Luke 19:29
<h3><verse=Luke 19:29>Luke 19:29</verse></h3>




(7) And it came to pass, when he was come nigh to Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount called [the
mount] of Olives, he sent two of his disciples,



(7) Christ shows in his own person that his kingdom is not of this world.
#BCV:Luke 19:39
<h3><verse=Luke 19:39>Luke 19:39</verse></h3>




(8) And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto him, Master, rebuke thy disciples.



(8) When those linger who ought to preach and set forth the kingdom of God the most, he will
extraordinarily raise up others in spite of them.
#BCV:Luke 19:41
<h3><verse=Luke 19:41>Luke 19:41</verse></h3>




(9) And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept over it,



(9) Christ is not delighted with destruction, no not even of the wicked.
#BCV:Luke 19:42
<h3><verse=Luke 19:42>Luke 19:42</verse></h3>




(g) Saying, (h) If thou hadst known, even thou, (i) at least in this (k) thy day, the things [which
belong] unto thy (l) peace! but now they are hid from thine eyes.



(g) Christ stops his speech, which partly shows how moved he was with compassion over the
destruction of the city that was surely to come: and partly to reprove them for their treachery and
stubbornness against him, such as has not been heard of before.



(h) You at the very least, O Jerusalem, to whom the message was properly sent.



(i) If after slaying so many prophets, and so often refusing me, the Lord of the prophets, if only
now, especially in my last coming to you, you had any concern for yourself.



(k) The good and prosperous time is called the day of this city.

<page=2606>(l) That is, those things in which your happiness stands.
#BCV:Luke 19:44
<h3><verse=Luke 19:44>Luke 19:44</verse></h3>



And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children within thee; and they shall not leave in
thee one stone upon another; because thou knewest not (m) the time of thy visitation.



(m) That is, this very instant in which God visited you.
#BCV:Luke 19:45
<h3><verse=Luke 19:45>Luke 19:45</verse></h3>




(10) And he went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold therein, and them that
bought;



(10) Christ shows after his entry into Jerusalem by a visible sign that it is his duty, given and
admonished unto him by his Father, to purge the temple.

<h2>Luke 20</h2>

#BCV:Luke 20:1
<h3><verse=Luke 20:1>Luke 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=2607>And (1) it came to pass, [that] on one of those days, as he taught the people in the temple, and
preached the gospel, the chief priests and the scribes came upon [him] with the elders,



(1) The Pharisees, being overcome with the truth of Christ's doctrine, propose a question about his
outward calling, and are overcome by the witness of their own conscience.
#BCV:Luke 20:9
<h3><verse=Luke 20:9>Luke 20:9</verse></h3>




(2) Then began he to speak to the people this parable; A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it
forth to husbandmen, and went into a far country for a long time.



(2) It is nothing new for those who are knowledgable of the very sanctuary of God's holy place to
be the greatest enemies of Christ, but in due time they will be punished.
#BCV:Luke 20:20
<h3><verse=Luke 20:20>Luke 20:20</verse></h3>




(3) And they (a) watched [him], and sent forth (b) spies, which should feign themselves just men, (c)
that they might take hold of his words, that so they might deliver him unto the power and (d)
authority of the governor.



(3) The last refuge the false prophets have to destroy the true prophets is to charge them with
rebellion and treason against the state.



(a) An appropriate time to take him in.



(b) Whom they had hired deceitfully.



(c) That they might latch on to something he said, and by this forge some false accusation against
him.



(d) Put him to death.
#BCV:Luke 20:21
<h3><verse=Luke 20:21>Luke 20:21</verse></h3>



And they asked him, saying, Master, we know that thou sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest
thou the (e) person [of any], but teachest the way of God truly:



(e) You are not moved by favour of any man: and by "person" he means outward circumstances, for
if a man judges according to these, there will be those who are truly alike whom he will judge to be
different.
#BCV:Luke 20:23
<h3><verse=Luke 20:23>Luke 20:23</verse></h3>

#BCV:luk 20:23
<h3><verse=luk 20:23>luk 20:23</verse></h3>




(f) Craftiness is a certain diligence and subtle knowledge to do evil, which is achieved by much use
and great practise in matters.
#BCV:Luke 20:27
<h3><verse=Luke 20:27>Luke 20:27</verse></h3>




(4) Then came to [him] certain of the Sadducees, which deny that there is any resurrection; and they
asked him,



(4) The resurrection of the flesh is affirmed against the Sadducees.
#BCV:Luke 20:34
<h3><verse=Luke 20:34>Luke 20:34</verse></h3>



And Jesus answering said unto them, The (g) children of this world marry, and are given in marriage:



(g) "The children of this world" refers here to those who live in this world, and not those that are
wholly given to the world (and therefore contrary to the children of light), as above in (<bcv=Luk 16:8>Luk 16:8</bcv>).
#BCV:Luke 20:36
<h3><verse=Luke 20:36>Luke 20:36</verse></h3>



Neither can they die any more: for they are equal unto the angels; and are the children of God,
being the (h) children of the resurrection.



(h) That is, men who partake in the resurrection: for as we truly say that they will indeed live who
will enjoy everlasting bliss, so do those indeed rise who rise to life; though if this word
"resurrection" is taken generally, it refers also to the wicked, who will rise to condemnation, which is
not properly life, but death.
#BCV:Luke 20:38
<h3><verse=Luke 20:38>Luke 20:38</verse></h3>



For he is not a God of the dead, but of the living: for all (i) live unto him.



(i) That is, before him: a saying to take note of, for the godly do not die, though they die here on
earth.
#BCV:Luke 20:41
<h3><verse=Luke 20:41>Luke 20:41</verse></h3>




(5) And he said unto them, How say they that Christ is David's son?



(5) Even though Christ is the son of David according to the flesh he is also his Lord (because he is
the everlasting Son of God) according to the spirit.
#BCV:Luke 20:46
<h3><verse=Luke 20:46>Luke 20:46</verse></h3>


<page=2609>(6) Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long robes, and love greetings in the markets, and
the highest seats in the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts;



(6) We must avoid the example of the glory-seeking and covetous pastors.
#BCV:Luke 20:47
<h3><verse=Luke 20:47>Luke 20:47</verse></h3>



Which devour widows' (k) houses, and for a shew make long prayers: the same shall receive greater
damnation.



(k) By the figure of speech metonymy, "houses" is understood to mean the goods and substance.

<h2>Luke 21</h2>

#BCV:Luke 21:1
<h3><verse=Luke 21:1>Luke 21:1</verse></h3>

<page=2610>And (1) he looked up, and saw the rich men casting their gifts into the treasury.



(1) According to the judgment of God, the poor may even exceed the rich in generosity and
liberality.
#BCV:Luke 21:5
<h3><verse=Luke 21:5>Luke 21:5</verse></h3>




(2) And as some spake of the temple, how it was adorned with goodly stones and (a) gifts, he said,



(2) The destruction of the temple is foretold so that the true spiritual building may be built, whose
chief builders must and ought to be cautious.



(a) These were things that were hung up on walls and pillars.
#BCV:Luke 21:8
<h3><verse=Luke 21:8>Luke 21:8</verse></h3>



And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come (b) in my name, saying, I am
[Christ]; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them.



(b) Using my name.
#BCV:Luke 21:9
<h3><verse=Luke 21:9>Luke 21:9</verse></h3>




(3) But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first
come to pass; but the end [is] not by and by.



(3) The true temple of God is built up even in the midst of incredible tumults and most severe
miseries, and this through invincible patience, so that the end result can be nothing else but most
happy.
#BCV:Luke 21:13
<h3><verse=Luke 21:13>Luke 21:13</verse></h3>



And it shall turn to you for (c) a testimony.



(c) This will be the result of your troubles and afflictions: they will be witnesses both before God
and man of the treacherous and cruel dealing of your enemies, as well as of your steadfastness: A
noble saying, that the afflictions of the godly and holy men pertain to the witness of the truth.
#BCV:Luke 21:19
<h3><verse=Luke 21:19>Luke 21:19</verse></h3>

<page=2611>In your patience (d) possess ye your souls.



(d) Though you are surrounded on all sides with many miseries, yet nonetheless be valiant and
courageous, and bear out these things bravely.
#BCV:Luke 21:20
<h3><verse=Luke 21:20>Luke 21:20</verse></h3>




(4) And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof
is nigh.



(4) The final destruction of the whole city is foretold.
#BCV:Luke 21:23
<h3><verse=Luke 21:23>Luke 21:23</verse></h3>



But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be
great distress in the land, and (e) wrath upon this people.



(e) By "wrath" are meant those things which God sends when he is displeased.
#BCV:Luke 21:24
<h3><verse=Luke 21:24>Luke 21:24</verse></h3>



And they shall fall by the (f) edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and
Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.



(f) Literally, "mouth", for the Hebrews call the edge of a sword the mouth because the edge of the
sword bites.
#BCV:Luke 21:25
<h3><verse=Luke 21:25>Luke 21:25</verse></h3>




(g) And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress
of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;



(g) When the times have expired which are appointed for the salvation of the Gentiles and the
punishment of the Jews: And so he changes topics from the destruction of Jerusalem to the history
of the latter judgment.
#BCV:Luke 21:26
<h3><verse=Luke 21:26>Luke 21:26</verse></h3>




(5) Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the
earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.



(5) After various severe trials the Lord will at last plainly appear to deliver his Church.
#BCV:Luke 21:29
<h3><verse=Luke 21:29>Luke 21:29</verse></h3>

#BCV:luk 21:29
<h3><verse=luk 21:29>luk 21:29</verse></h3>




(6) We must be sober and watchful both day and night for the Lord's coming, so that we are not
taken unexpectedly.
#BCV:Luke 21:35
<h3><verse=Luke 21:35>Luke 21:35</verse></h3>



For as a snare shall it come (h) on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth.



(h) On all men wherever they may be.
#BCV:Luke 21:36
<h3><verse=Luke 21:36>Luke 21:36</verse></h3>



Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that
shall come to pass, and to (i) stand before the Son of man.



(i) You will appear before him in a condition such that you will abide the presence and sentence of
the Judge without fear.

<h2>Luke 22</h2>

#BCV:Luke 22:1
<h3><verse=Luke 22:1>Luke 22:1</verse></h3>

<page=2613>Now the (1) feast of unleavened bread drew nigh, which is called the Passover.



(1) Christ is taken upon the day of the Passover rather by the providence of his Father, than by the
will of men.
#BCV:Luke 22:3
<h3><verse=Luke 22:3>Luke 22:3</verse></h3>




(2) Then entered Satan into Judas surnamed Iscariot, being of the number of the twelve.



(2) God by his wonderful providence causes him to be the minister of our salvation who was the
author of our destruction.
#BCV:Luke 22:4
<h3><verse=Luke 22:4>Luke 22:4</verse></h3>



And he went his way, and communed with the chief priests and (a) captains, how he might betray
him unto them.



(a) Those that had the charge of keeping the temple, who were not from among the priests and
bishops, as is shown below in (<bcv=Luk 22:52>Luk 22:52</bcv>).
#BCV:Luke 22:6
<h3><verse=Luke 22:6>Luke 22:6</verse></h3>



And he promised, and sought opportunity to betray him unto them in the (b) absence of the
multitude.



(b) Without tumult, doing it without the knowledge of the people who used to follow him: and
therefore they indeed waited patiently until they knew he was alone in the garden.
#BCV:Luke 22:7
<h3><verse=Luke 22:7>Luke 22:7</verse></h3>




(3) Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the passover (c) must be killed.



(3) Christ teaches his disciples by an obvious miracle that although he is going to be crucified, yet
nothing is hidden from him, and therefore that he is going willingly to death.



(c) By the order appointed by the law.
#BCV:Luke 22:8
<h3><verse=Luke 22:8>Luke 22:8</verse></h3>



And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go and prepare us the (d) passover, that we may eat.

<page=2614>(d) The lamb which was the symbol of the passover: And this is said using the figure of speech
metonymy, which is often used when talking about the sacraments.
#BCV:Luke 22:14
<h3><verse=Luke 22:14>Luke 22:14</verse></h3>




(4) And when the (e) hour was come, he sat down, and the twelve apostles with him.



(4) Christ, having ended the passover according to the order of the law, forewarns them that this will
be his last banquet with them in terms of this earthly life.



(e) The evening and twilight, at which time this supper was to be kept.
#BCV:Luke 22:15
<h3><verse=Luke 22:15>Luke 22:15</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I (f) suffer:



(f) I am put to death.
#BCV:Luke 22:19
<h3><verse=Luke 22:19>Luke 22:19</verse></h3>




(5) And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake [it], and gave unto them, saying, This is my body
which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.



(5) Christ establishes his new covenant and his communication with us by new symbols.
#BCV:Luke 22:20
<h3><verse=Luke 22:20>Luke 22:20</verse></h3>



Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This (g) cup [is] (h) the new testament in my blood, which
is shed for you.



(g) Here is a double use of metonymy: for first, the vessel is taken for that which is contained in the
vessel, as the cup is spoken of for the wine which is within the cup. Second, the wine is called the
covenant or testament, whereas in reality it is but the sign of the testament, or rather of the blood
of Christ by which the testament was made: neither is it a vain sign, although it is not the same as
the thing that it represents.



(h) This word "the" shows the excellency of the testament, and corresponds to (<bcv=Jer 31:31>Jer 31:31</bcv>) where the
new testament is promised.
#BCV:Luke 22:21
<h3><verse=Luke 22:21>Luke 22:21</verse></h3>




(6) But, behold, the (i) hand of him that betrayeth me [is] with me on the table.



(6) Christ shows again that he goes willingly to die, although he is not ignorant of Judas' treason.

<page=2615>(i) That is, his practice; the Hebrews used to speak in this way, as in (<bcv=2Sam 14:19>Sa2 14:19</bcv>): "Is not the hand of
Joab with thee in all this?"
#BCV:Luke 22:22
<h3><verse=Luke 22:22>Luke 22:22</verse></h3>




(7) And truly the Son of man goeth, as it was determined: but woe unto that man by whom he is
betrayed!



(7) Although the decree of God's providence necessarily comes to pass, yet it does not excuse the
fault of those who bring it to pass.
#BCV:Luke 22:24
<h3><verse=Luke 22:24>Luke 22:24</verse></h3>




(8) And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be accounted the greatest.



(8) The pastors are not called to rule but to serve.
#BCV:Luke 22:25
<h3><verse=Luke 22:25>Luke 22:25</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exercise lordship over them; and they that
exercise authority upon them are called (k) benefactors.



(k) Have great titles, for so it was the custom to honour princes with some great titles.
#BCV:Luke 22:28
<h3><verse=Luke 22:28>Luke 22:28</verse></h3>




(9) Ye are they which have continued with me in my temptations.



(9) Those who are partakers of the affliction of Christ will also be partakers of his kingdom.
#BCV:Luke 22:31
<h3><verse=Luke 22:31>Luke 22:31</verse></h3>




(10) And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired [to have] you, that he may (l) sift
[you] as wheat:



(10) We must always think about the ambush that Satan lays for us.



(l) To toss you and scatter you, and also to cast you out.
#BCV:Luke 22:32
<h3><verse=Luke 22:32>Luke 22:32</verse></h3>




(11) But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy
brethren.

<page=2616>(11) It is through the prayers of Christ that the elect never utterly fall away from the faith: and
because of this they should encourage one another on.
#BCV:Luke 22:33
<h3><verse=Luke 22:33>Luke 22:33</verse></h3>




(12) And he said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with thee, both into prison, and to death.



(12) In setting before us the grievous example of Peter, Christ shows that faith differs much from a
vain security.
#BCV:Luke 22:36
<h3><verse=Luke 22:36>Luke 22:36</verse></h3>




(m) Then said he unto them, But now, he that hath a purse, let him take [it], and likewise [his] scrip:
and he that hath no sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one.



(m) He says all this using an allegory, as if he said, "O my friends and fellow soldiers, you have lived
until now in relative peace: but now there is at hand a most severe battle to be fought, and you must
therefore lay all other things aside and think about dressing yourselves in armour." And what this
armour is, is shown by his own example, when he prayed afterward in the garden and reproved Peter
for striking with the sword.
#BCV:Luke 22:40
<h3><verse=Luke 22:40>Luke 22:40</verse></h3>




(13) And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation.



(13) Christ has made death acceptable unto us by overcoming for our sake all the horrors of death,
which had the curse of God accompanying them.
#BCV:Luke 22:41
<h3><verse=Luke 22:41>Luke 22:41</verse></h3>




(14) And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed,



(14) Prayers are a sure help against the most perilous assaults of our enemies.
#BCV:Luke 22:44
<h3><verse=Luke 22:44>Luke 22:44</verse></h3>



And being in an (n) agony he prayed more earnestly: and his sweat was as it were great (o) drops of
blood falling down to the ground.



(n) This agony shows that Christ struggled hard and was in great distress: for Christ struggled hard
not only with the fears of death as other men do (for in this regard many martyrs might seem more
constant then Christ), but also with the fearful judgment of his angry Father, which is the most
fearful thing in the world: and this was because he took the burden of all our sins upon himself.

<page=2617>(o) These do not only show that Christ was true man, but also other things which the godly have to
consider of, in which the secret of the redemption of all mankind is contained in the Son of God
when he debased himself to the state of a servant: such things as these no man can sufficiently
declare.
#BCV:Luke 22:45
<h3><verse=Luke 22:45>Luke 22:45</verse></h3>




(15) And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for
sorrow,



(15) Men are utterly sluggish, even in their greatest dangers.
#BCV:Luke 22:47
<h3><verse=Luke 22:47>Luke 22:47</verse></h3>




(16) And while he yet spake, behold a multitude, and he that was called Judas, one of the twelve,
went before them, and drew near unto Jesus to kiss him.



(16) Christ is willingly betrayed and taken so that by his obedience he might deliver us who were
guilty of betraying God's glory.
#BCV:Luke 22:49
<h3><verse=Luke 22:49>Luke 22:49</verse></h3>




(17) When they which were about him saw what would follow, they said unto him, Lord, shall we
smite with the sword?



(17) That zeal which carries us out of the bounds of our God-given position does not please Christ.
#BCV:Luke 22:52
<h3><verse=Luke 22:52>Luke 22:52</verse></h3>




(18) Then Jesus said unto the chief priests, and captains of the temple, and the elders, which were
come to him, Be ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and staves?



(18) Even the very fear of those who took Christ partly proves their evil conscience, and partly also
that all these things were done by God's providence.
#BCV:Luke 22:53
<h3><verse=Luke 22:53>Luke 22:53</verse></h3>



When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your
hour, and the (p) power of darkness.



(p) The power that was given to darkness to oppress the light for a time.
#BCV:Luke 22:54
<h3><verse=Luke 22:54>Luke 22:54</verse></h3>

<page=2618>Then took they him, and led [him], and brought him into the high priest's house. (19) And Peter
followed afar off.



(19) We have to behold in Peter an example both of the fragility of man's nature, and the singular
goodness of God towards his elect.
#BCV:Luke 22:63
<h3><verse=Luke 22:63>Luke 22:63</verse></h3>




(20) And the men that held Jesus mocked him, and smote [him].



(20) Christ bore the shame that was due for our sins.
#BCV:Luke 22:66
<h3><verse=Luke 22:66>Luke 22:66</verse></h3>




(21) And as soon as it was day, the elders of the people and the chief priests and the scribes came
together, and led him into their council, saying,



(21) Christ is wrongly condemned of blasphemy before the high priest's judgment seat in order that
we might be acquitted before God from the blasphemy which we deserved.

<h2>Luke 23</h2>

#BCV:Luke 23:1
<h3><verse=Luke 23:1>Luke 23:1</verse></h3>

<page=2619>And (1) the whole multitude of them arose, and led him unto Pilate.


(1) Christ, who is now ready to suffer for the rebellion which we raised in this world, is first of all
pronounced guiltless, so that it might appear that he suffered not for his own sins (which were none)
but for ours.
#BCV:Luke 23:2
<h3><verse=Luke 23:2>Luke 23:2</verse></h3>



And they began to accuse him, saying, We found this [fellow] (a) perverting the nation, and
forbidding to give tribute to Caesar, saying that he himself is Christ a King.



(a) Corrupting the people, and leading them into errors.
#BCV:Luke 23:6
<h3><verse=Luke 23:6>Luke 23:6</verse></h3>




(2) When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the man were a Galilaean.



(2) Christ is a laughing stock to princes, but to their great pain.
#BCV:Luke 23:7
<h3><verse=Luke 23:7>Luke 23:7</verse></h3>



And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto (b) Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who
himself also was at Jerusalem at that time.



(b) This was Herod Antipas the Tetrarch, in the time of whose period of rule (which was almost
twenty-two years long) John the Baptist preached and was put to death, and Jesus Christ also died
and rose again, and the apostles began to preach, and various things were done at Jerusalem almost
seven years after Christ's death. This Herod was sent into banishment to Lyons, about the second
year of Gaius Caesar.
#BCV:Luke 23:11
<h3><verse=Luke 23:11>Luke 23:11</verse></h3>



And Herod with his (c) men of war set him at nought, and mocked [him], and arrayed him in a
gorgeous robe, and sent him again to Pilate.



(c) Accompanied with his nobles and soldiers who followed him from Galilee.
#BCV:Luke 23:12
<h3><verse=Luke 23:12>Luke 23:12</verse></h3>


<page=2620>(3) And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends together: for before they were at enmity
between themselves.



(3) The hatred of godliness binds the wicked together.
#BCV:Luke 23:13
<h3><verse=Luke 23:13>Luke 23:13</verse></h3>




(4) And Pilate, when he had called together the chief priests and the (d) rulers and the people,



(4) Christ is acquitted the second time, even by him of whom he is condemned, so that it might
appear in what way he who is just, redeemed us who were unjust.



(d) Those whom the Jews called the sanhedrin.
#BCV:Luke 23:16
<h3><verse=Luke 23:16>Luke 23:16</verse></h3>




(5) I will therefore chastise him, and release [him].



(5) The wisdom of the flesh is to choose the lesser of two evils, but God curses such plans.
#BCV:Luke 23:22
<h3><verse=Luke 23:22>Luke 23:22</verse></h3>




(6) And he said unto them the third time, Why, what evil hath he done? I have found no cause of
death in him: I will therefore chastise him, and let [him] go.



(6) Christ is acquitted the third time before he is condemned, so that it might appear that it was for
our sins that were condemned in him.
#BCV:Luke 23:26
<h3><verse=Luke 23:26>Luke 23:26</verse></h3>




(7) And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country,
and on him they laid the cross, that he might bear [it] after Jesus.



(7) An example of the outrageousness and disorder of the soldiers.
#BCV:Luke 23:27
<h3><verse=Luke 23:27>Luke 23:27</verse></h3>




(8) And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and
lamented him.



(8) The triumph of the wicked has a most horrible end.
#BCV:Luke 23:31
<h3><verse=Luke 23:31>Luke 23:31</verse></h3>



For if they do these things in a (e) green tree, what shall be done in the dry?

<page=2621>(e) As if he said, "If they do this to me who is always fruitful and flourishing, and who lives forever
by reason of my Godhead, what will they do to you who are unfruitful and void of all active
righteousness?"
#BCV:Luke 23:33
<h3><verse=Luke 23:33>Luke 23:33</verse></h3>




(9) And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the
malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left.



(9) Christ became accursed for us upon the cross, suffering the punishment which the ones who
would belong to God deserved.
#BCV:Luke 23:34
<h3><verse=Luke 23:34>Luke 23:34</verse></h3>




(10) Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his
raiment, and cast lots.



(10) Christ, in praying for his enemies, shows that he is both the Sacrifice and the Priest.
#BCV:Luke 23:35
<h3><verse=Luke 23:35>Luke 23:35</verse></h3>



And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided [him], saying, He saved
others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the (f) chosen of God.



(f) Whom God loves more than all others.
#BCV:Luke 23:38
<h3><verse=Luke 23:38>Luke 23:38</verse></h3>




(11) And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew,
THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.



(11) Pilate is unknowingly made a preacher of the kingdom of Christ.
#BCV:Luke 23:39
<h3><verse=Luke 23:39>Luke 23:39</verse></h3>




(g) And (12) one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save
thyself and us.



(g) Therefore we must either take Matthew's account to be using the figure of speech synecdoche, or
that both of them mocked Christ. But one of them who was eventually overcome with the great
patience of God breaks forth in that confession worthy all memory.



(12) Christ, in the midst of the humbling of himself upon the cross, indeed shows that he has both
the power of life to save the believers and the power of death to avenge the rebellious.
#BCV:Luke 23:41
<h3><verse=Luke 23:41>Luke 23:41</verse></h3>

<page=2622>And we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this man hath done nothing



(h) amiss.



(h) More than he ought.
#BCV:Luke 23:43
<h3><verse=Luke 23:43>Luke 23:43</verse></h3>



And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in (i) paradise.



(i) God made the visible paradise in the eastern part of the world: but that which we behold with the
eyes of our mind is the place of everlasting joy and salvation, through the goodness and mercy of
God, a most pleasant rest for the souls of the godly, and a most quiet and joyful dwelling.
#BCV:Luke 23:44
<h3><verse=Luke 23:44>Luke 23:44</verse></h3>




(13) And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a darkness over all the earth until the ninth hour.



(13) Christ, even being at the point of death, shows himself to be God almighty even to the blind.
#BCV:Luke 23:45
<h3><verse=Luke 23:45>Luke 23:45</verse></h3>




(14) And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was rent in the midst.



(14) Christ enters bravely and resolutely into the very darkness of death, and he does this so that he
might overcome death even within its most secret places.
#BCV:Luke 23:47
<h3><verse=Luke 23:47>Luke 23:47</verse></h3>




(15) Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified God, saying, Certainly this was a
righteous man.



(15) Christ, as often as it pleases him, causes his very enemies to give honourable witness that he is
right.
#BCV:Luke 23:49
<h3><verse=Luke 23:49>Luke 23:49</verse></h3>




(16) And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off,
beholding these things.



(16) Christ gathers together and defends his little flock in the midst of the tormentors.
#BCV:Luke 23:50
<h3><verse=Luke 23:50>Luke 23:50</verse></h3>

#BCV:luk 23:50
<h3><verse=luk 23:50>luk 23:50</verse></h3>




(17) Christ, through his well known burial, confirms both the truth of his death as well as his
resurrection, by the plain and evident witness of Pilate.
#BCV:Luke 23:54
<h3><verse=Luke 23:54>Luke 23:54</verse></h3>



And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath (k) drew on.



(k) Literally, "dawning", and now beginning, for the light of the former day drew toward the going
down of the sun, and that was the day of preparation for the feast, that is, the feast which was to be
kept the following day.
#BCV:Luke 23:55
<h3><verse=Luke 23:55>Luke 23:55</verse></h3>




(18) And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after, and beheld the
sepulchre, and how his body was laid.



(18) Christ, being set upon by the devil and all his instruments, and being even in death's mouth,
places weak women in his service, bearing in mind to immediately triumph over these terrible
enemies, and that without any great endeavour.

<h2>Luke 24</h2>

#BCV:Luke 24:1
<h3><verse=Luke 24:1>Luke 24:1</verse></h3>

<page=2624>Now upon the (1) first [day] of the week, very (a) early in the morning, they came unto the
sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain [others] with them.



(1) Poor humble women, who were certainly not expecting it, are chosen to be the first witnesses of
the resurrection, so that there might not be any suspicion of either deceit or violence.



(a) Very early, as Mark says: or as John says, while it was yet dark, that is, when it was yet hardly the
dawning of day.
#BCV:Luke 24:9
<h3><verse=Luke 24:9>Luke 24:9</verse></h3>




(2) And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest.



(2) The cowardly and dastardly mind of the disciples is reproved by the brave courage of women



(made so by God's great mercies) to show that the kingdom of God consists in an extraordinary
power.
#BCV:Luke 24:12
<h3><verse=Luke 24:12>Luke 24:12</verse></h3>




(3) Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre; and (b) stooping down, he beheld the linen clothes
laid by themselves, and departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass.



(3) Christ uses the incredulity of his disciples for the fuller setting forth of the truth of his
resurrection, lest they should seem to have believed that too lightly which they preached afterward to
all the world.



(b) As it were holding down his head, and bowing his neck, looked diligently in.
#BCV:Luke 24:13
<h3><verse=Luke 24:13>Luke 24:13</verse></h3>




(4) And, behold, two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was from
Jerusalem [about] threescore furlongs.



(4) The resurrection is proved by two other witnesses who saw it, and all the circumstances
surrounding it declare that it was no forged event thought up on purpose in their own minds.
#BCV:Luke 24:16
<h3><verse=Luke 24:16>Luke 24:16</verse></h3>




(c) But their eyes were holden that they should not know him.

<page=2625>(c) Were held back and stayed, God no doubt appointing this to be so: and therefore his body was
not invisible, but rather their eyes were dimmed.
#BCV:Luke 24:18
<h3><verse=Luke 24:18>Luke 24:18</verse></h3>



And (d) the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a
stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days?



(d) Some of the old fathers think that the other disciple was the same evangelist who wrote this
book, but Epiphanius, writing against the Saturnilians, says it was Nathanael; but none of these are
certainties.
#BCV:Luke 24:20
<h3><verse=Luke 24:20>Luke 24:20</verse></h3>




(5) And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have
crucified him.



(5) It appears by conferring the prophecies of the prophets that all those things are true and certain
which the evangelist have put down in writing about Christ.
#BCV:Luke 24:31
<h3><verse=Luke 24:31>Luke 24:31</verse></h3>



And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and he (e) vanished out of their sight.



(e) Suddenly taken away, and we may not therefore imagine that he was there in an invisible body,
but indeed believe that he suddenly changed the place where he was.
#BCV:Luke 24:35
<h3><verse=Luke 24:35>Luke 24:35</verse></h3>



And they told what things [were done] in the way, and how he was known of them in (f) breaking of
bread.



(f) When he broke bread, which that people used to do, and as the Jews still do today at the
beginning of their meals and say a prayer.
#BCV:Luke 24:36
<h3><verse=Luke 24:36>Luke 24:36</verse></h3>




(6) And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace [be]
unto you.



(6) The Lord himself shows by certain and necessary signs that he was risen again, and risen in the
same body which he had taken upon himself.
#BCV:Luke 24:38
<h3><verse=Luke 24:38>Luke 24:38</verse></h3>

#BCV:luk 24:38
<h3><verse=luk 24:38>luk 24:38</verse></h3>




(g) Various and doubtful thoughts which fall often into men's heads, when any strange thing occurs,
thoughts of which there is no great likelihood.
#BCV:Luke 24:44
<h3><verse=Luke 24:44>Luke 24:44</verse></h3>




(7) And he said unto them, These [are] the words which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you,
that all things must be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and [in] the prophets, and
[in] the psalms, concerning me.



(7) The preaching of the gospel, which was promised to the prophets, and performed in his time, is
committed unto the apostles, the sum of which is repentance and remission of sins.
#BCV:Luke 24:47
<h3><verse=Luke 24:47>Luke 24:47</verse></h3>



And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, (h)
beginning at Jerusalem.



(h) The apostles, who are the preachers of the gospel, beginning at Jerusalem.
#BCV:Luke 24:49
<h3><verse=Luke 24:49>Luke 24:49</verse></h3>



And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, (i)
until ye be endued with power from on high.



(i) Until the Holy Spirit comes down from heaven upon you.

#BCV:Luke 24:50
<h3><verse=Luke 24:50>Luke 24:50</verse></h3>




(8) And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted up his hands, and blessed them.



(8) Christ ascends into heaven, and departing bodily from his disciples, fills their hearts with the
Holy Spirit.

<h1>John</h1>


<h2>John 1</h2>

#BCV:John 1:1
<h3><verse=John 1:1>John 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2627>In (1) the (a) beginning (b) was (c) the Word, and the Word was (d) with God, and the (e) Word was
God.



(1) The Son of God is of one and the selfsame eternity or everlastingness, and of one and the
selfsame essence or nature with the Father.



(a) From the beginning, as the evangelist says in (<bcv=1Jo 1:1>Jo1 1:1</bcv>); it is as though he said that the Word did
not begin to have his being when God began to make all that was made: for the Word was even then
when all things that were made began to be made, and therefore he was before the beginning of all
things.



(b) Had his being.



(c) This word "the" points out to us a peculiar and choice thing above all others, and puts a
difference between this "Word", which is the Son of God, and the laws of God, which are also
called the word of God.



(d) This word "with" points out that there is a distinction of persons here.



(e) This word "Word" is the first in order in the sentence, and is the subject of the sentence, and this
word "God" is the latter in order, and is the predicate of the sentence.
#BCV:John 1:3
<h3><verse=John 1:3>John 1:3</verse></h3>




(2) All (f) things were made by him; and (g) without him (h) was not any thing made that was made.



(2) The Son of God declares that his everlasting Godhead is the same as the Father's, both by the
creating of all things, and also by preserving them, and especially by the excellent gifts of reason and
understanding with which he has beautified man above all other creatures.



(f) Paul expounds on this in (<bcv=Col 1:15-16>Col 1:15-16</bcv>).



(g) That is, as the Father did work, so did the Son work with him: for the Son was a fellow worker
with him.



(h) Of all those things which were made, nothing was made without him.
#BCV:John 1:4
<h3><verse=John 1:4>John 1:4</verse></h3>




(i) In him (k) was life; and the life was (l) the light of men.

<page=2628>(i) That is, by him: and this is spoken after the manner of the Hebrews, meaning by this that by his
force and working power all life comes to the world.



(k) That is, even at that time when all things were made by him, for otherwise he would have said,
"Life in him", and not "life was".



(l) That force of reason and understanding which is kindled in our minds to acknowledge him, the
author of so great a benefit.
#BCV:John 1:5
<h3><verse=John 1:5>John 1:5</verse></h3>




(3) And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness (m) comprehended it not.



(3) The light of men is turned into darkness, but yet there is enough clearness so that they are
without excuse.



(m) They could not perceive nor reach it to receive any light from it, no, they did not so much as
acknowledge him.
#BCV:John 1:6
<h3><verse=John 1:6>John 1:6</verse></h3>




(4) There was a man sent from God, whose name [was] John.



(4) There is another more full manifestation of the Son of God, by the consideration of which men
are in good time stirred up, even to John's voice, who is as it were the herald of Christ.
#BCV:John 1:7
<h3><verse=John 1:7>John 1:7</verse></h3>



The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all [men] (n) through him might
believe.



(n) Through John.
#BCV:John 1:8
<h3><verse=John 1:8>John 1:8</verse></h3>



He was not (o) that Light, but [was sent] to bear witness of that Light.



(o) That light which we spoke of, that is, Christ, who alone can enlighten our darkness.
#BCV:John 1:9
<h3><verse=John 1:9>John 1:9</verse></h3>




(5) [That] was (p) the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world.



(5) When the Son of God saw that men did not acknowledge him by his works, although they were
endued with understanding (which he had given to all of them), he exhibited himself unto his
<page=2629>people to be seen by them with their physical eyes: yet not even then did they acknowledge him or
receive him.



(p) Who alone and properly deserves to be called the light, for he shines by his own accord and
borrows light from no one.
#BCV:John 1:10
<h3><verse=John 1:10>John 1:10</verse></h3>




(q) He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not.



(q) The person of the Word was made manifest even at that time when the world was made.
#BCV:John 1:11
<h3><verse=John 1:11>John 1:11</verse></h3>



He came (r) unto his own, and his own received him not.



(r) The Word showed himself again when he came in the flesh.
#BCV:John 1:12
<h3><verse=John 1:12>John 1:12</verse></h3>




(6) But as many as received him, to them gave he (s) power to become the sons of God, [even] to
them that believe on his name:



(6) The Son being shut out by the majority of his people, and acknowledged but by a few,
regenerates those few by his own strength and power, and receives them into that honour which is
common to all the children of God, that is, to be the sons of God.



(s) He condescended to give them this power to take them to be his children.
#BCV:John 1:13
<h3><verse=John 1:13>John 1:13</verse></h3>



Which were born, not of blood, nor of the (t) will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.



(t) Of that shameful and corrupt nature of man, which is throughout the scriptures described as an
enemy of the spirit.
#BCV:John 1:14
<h3><verse=John 1:14>John 1:14</verse></h3>




(7) And the Word was made (u) flesh, and (x) dwelt among us, (and we beheld his (y) glory, the glory



(z) as of the only begotten of the Father,) (a) full of grace and truth.



(7) That Son who is God from everlasting took upon himself man's nature, so that one and the
selfsame might be both God and man, who manifestly appeared to many witnesses that saw him,
amongst whom he was conversant and unto whom by sure and undoubted arguments he showed
both of his natures.

<page=2630>(u) That is, man: so that, by the figure of speech synecdoche, the part is taken for the whole: for he
took upon himself our entire nature, that is to say, a true body, and a true soul.



(x) For a time, and when that was ended, he went up into heaven: for the word which he uses is used
with reference to tents: and yet nonetheless he is always present with us, though not in flesh, but by
the power of his spirit.



(y) The glory which he speaks of here is that manifestation of Christ's majesty, which was as it were
openly placed before our eyes when the Son of God appeared in the flesh.



(z) This word "as" does not indicate here a likeness, but rather the truth of the matter, for his
meaning is this, that we saw such a glory which suited and was proper for the true and only begotten
Son of God, who is Lord and King over all the world.



(a) He was not only a partaker of grace and truth, but was full of the very substance of grace and
truth.
#BCV:John 1:15
<h3><verse=John 1:15>John 1:15</verse></h3>




(8) John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was he of whom I spake, He that cometh (b)
after me is preferred (c) before me: for he was before me.



(8) John is a faithful witness of the excellency of Christ.



(b) That is, "He before whom I am sent to prepare him the way": so that these words refer to the
time of his calling, and not of his age, for John was six months older than Christ.



(c) This sentence has in it a turning of the reason as we call it, as one would say, a setting of that
first which should be last, and that last which should be first: for in plain speech it is this, "He that
comes after me, is better than I am, for he was before me." We find a similar turning of the reason
in (<bcv=Luk 7:47>Luk 7:47</bcv>): "Many sins are forgiven her, because she loved much", which is this much to say, "She
loved much, because many sins are forgiven her."
#BCV:John 1:16
<h3><verse=John 1:16>John 1:16</verse></h3>




(9) And of his fulness have all we received, and (d) grace for grace.



(9) Christ is the most plentiful fountain of all goodness, but he gave out his gifts most bountifully at
that time when he exhibited and showed himself to the world.



(d) That is, grace upon grace; as one would say, graces piled one upon another.
#BCV:John 1:18
<h3><verse=John 1:18>John 1:18</verse></h3>




(10) No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the (e) bosom of the
Father, he hath (f) declared [him].

<page=2631>(10) The true knowledge of God proceeds only from Jesus Christ.



(e) Who is nearest to his Father, not only in respect of his love towards him, but by the bond of
nature, and by means of that union or oneness that is between them, by which the Father and the
Son are one.



(f) Revealed him and showed him unto us, whereas before he was hidden under the shadows of the
law, so that our minds were not able to perceive him: for whoever sees him, sees the Father also.
#BCV:John 1:19
<h3><verse=John 1:19>John 1:19</verse></h3>




(11) And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask
him, Who art thou?



(11) John is neither the Messiah, nor like any of the other prophets, but is the herald of Christ, who
is now present.
#BCV:John 1:20
<h3><verse=John 1:20>John 1:20</verse></h3>



And he (g) confessed, and (h) denied not; but confessed, I am not the Christ.



(g) He did acknowledge him, and spoke of him plainly and openly.



(h) This repeating of the one and the selfsame thing, though in different words, is often used by the
Hebrews, and it has great force, for they used to speak one thing twice in order to set it out more
certainly and plainly.
#BCV:John 1:21
<h3><verse=John 1:21>John 1:21</verse></h3>



And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And he saith, (i) I am not. Art thou (k) that
prophet? And he answered, No.



(i) The Jews thought that Elias would come again before the days of the Messiah, and they took as
the basis of their opinion (<bcv=Mal 4:5>Mal 4:5</bcv>), which is to be understood as referring to John, see (<bcv=Mat 11:14>Mat 11:14</bcv>).
And yet John denies that he is Elias, answering their question just as they meant it.



(k) They are inquiring about some great prophet, and not about Christ, for John denied before that
he is Christ, for they thought that some great prophet would be sent like Moses, using to support
this position (<bcv=Deu 18:15>Deu 18:15</bcv>), which is to be understood to refer to all the company of the prophets and
ministers, which have been and shall be to the end, and especially of Christ who is the head of all
prophets.
#BCV:John 1:24
<h3><verse=John 1:24>John 1:24</verse></h3>




(12) And they which were sent were of the Pharisees.

<page=2632>(12) Christ is the author of baptism, and not John: and therefore the authority of this does not
come from John, who is the minister, but wholly from Christ the Lord.
#BCV:John 1:25
<h3><verse=John 1:25>John 1:25</verse></h3>



And they asked him, and said unto him, (l) Why baptizest thou then, if thou be not that Christ, nor
Elias, neither that prophet?



(l) By this we may prove that the Jews knew there should be some change in religion under the
Messiah.
#BCV:John 1:26
<h3><verse=John 1:26>John 1:26</verse></h3>



John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but there standeth one (m) among you, whom ye
know not;



(m) Whom all the world sees, and sees even amongst you.
#BCV:John 1:29
<h3><verse=John 1:29>John 1:29</verse></h3>




(13) The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold (n) the Lamb of God, which



(o) taketh away the (p) sin of the world.



(13) The body and truth of all the sacrifices of the law, to make satisfaction for the sin of the world,
is Christ.



(n) This word "the" which is added has great force in it, not only to set forth the worthiness of
Christ, and so to separate him for the "lamb" which was a symbol of him, and from all other
sacrifices of the law, but also to remind us of the prophecies of Isaiah and others.



(o) This word is in the present tense, and signifies a continuous act, for the Lamb rightfully has this
power both now and forever to take away the sins of the world.



(p) That is, that root of sins, namely, our corruption, and so consequently the fruits of sins, which
are commonly called in the plural number, sins.
#BCV:John 1:31
<h3><verse=John 1:31>John 1:31</verse></h3>



And (q) I knew him not: but that he should be made manifest to Israel, therefore am I come
baptizing with water.



(q) I never knew him by face before.
#BCV:John 1:32
<h3><verse=John 1:32>John 1:32</verse></h3>


<page=2633>(14) And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descending from heaven like a dove, and it abode
upon him.



(14) Christ is proved to be the Son of God by the coming down of the Holy Spirit, by the Father's
voice, and by John's testimony.
#BCV:John 1:34
<h3><verse=John 1:34>John 1:34</verse></h3>



And I saw, and bare record that this is (r) the Son of God.



(r) This word "the" points out to us some excellent thing, and makes a distinction between Christ
and others, whom Moses and the prophets commonly call the sons of the most High.
#BCV:John 1:35
<h3><verse=John 1:35>John 1:35</verse></h3>




(15) Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples;



(15) John gathers disciples not to himself, but to Christ.
#BCV:John 1:36
<h3><verse=John 1:36>John 1:36</verse></h3>




(16) And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!



(16) Christ is set before us to follow, not as a vain shadow, but as our Mediator.
#BCV:John 1:37
<h3><verse=John 1:37>John 1:37</verse></h3>




(17) And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Jesus.



(17) In this first gathering of the disciples we have shown to us that the beginning of salvation is
from God, who calls us unto his Son by the ministry of his servants: whom, as he guides us, we
must also hear, and follow him home, so that being instructed by him we may also instruct others.
#BCV:John 1:38
<h3><verse=John 1:38>John 1:38</verse></h3>



Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith unto them, What seek ye? They said unto him,
Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master,) (s) where dwellest thou?



(s) Where is your lodging?
#BCV:John 1:39
<h3><verse=John 1:39>John 1:39</verse></h3>



He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt, and abode with him that
day: for it was about the (t) tenth hour.

<page=2634>(t) It was getting later in the night.
#BCV:John 1:41
<h3><verse=John 1:41>John 1:41</verse></h3>



He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is,
being interpreted, the (u) Christ.



(u) That is, anointed, and king after the manner of the Jewish people.
#BCV:John 1:45
<h3><verse=John 1:45>John 1:45</verse></h3>




(18) Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law,
and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.



(18) God uses the good endeavours of the unlearned such that he makes them teachers of the
learned.
#BCV:John 1:46
<h3><verse=John 1:46>John 1:46</verse></h3>




(19) And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip saith
unto him, Come and see.



(19) We must especially take heed of false presumptions, which prevent us from entrance to Christ.
#BCV:John 1:47
<h3><verse=John 1:47>John 1:47</verse></h3>




(20) Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and saith of him, Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no
guile!



(20) Simple uprightness discerns the true Israelites from the false.
#BCV:John 1:48
<h3><verse=John 1:48>John 1:48</verse></h3>




(21) Nathanael saith unto him, Whence knowest thou me? Jesus answered and said unto him, Before
that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee.



(21) The purpose of miracles is to set before us Christ the Almighty, and also the only author of our
salvation, in order that we may apprehend him by faith.
#BCV:John 1:51
<h3><verse=John 1:51>John 1:51</verse></h3>



And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the
angels of God (x) ascending and descending upon the Son of man.

<page=2635>(x) These words signify the power of God which would appear in Christ's ministry by the angels
serving him as the head of the Church.

<h2>John 2</h2>

#BCV:John 2:1
<h3><verse=John 2:1>John 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2636>And (1) the (a) third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there:



(1) Christ, declaring openly in an assembly by a notable miracle that he has power over the nature of
things to feed man's body, leads the minds of all men to consider his spiritual and saving strength
and power.



(a) After the talk which he had with Nathanael, or after his departure from John, or after he came
into Galilee.
#BCV:John 2:3
<h3><verse=John 2:3>John 2:3</verse></h3>




(2) And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine.



(2) Christ takes good enough care of our salvation, and therefore has no need of others to remind
of it.
#BCV:John 2:4
<h3><verse=John 2:4>John 2:4</verse></h3>



Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine (b) hour is not yet come.



(b) My appointed time.
#BCV:John 2:6
<h3><verse=John 2:6>John 2:6</verse></h3>



And there were set there six (c) waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews,
containing two or three (d) firkins apiece.



(c) These were vessels made for the use of water, in which they washed themselves.



(d) Every firkin contained one hundred pounds, at twelve ounces a pound: By this we gather that
Christ helps them with one thousand and eight hundred pounds of wine. (about 135 imperial
gallons or 600 litres Ed.)
#BCV:John 2:10
<h3><verse=John 2:10>John 2:10</verse></h3>



And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have (e)
well drunk, then that which is worse: [but] thou hast kept the good wine until now.



(e) Literally, "are drunken". Now this saying, to be drunken, does not always refer to being drunk in
the evil sense in the Hebrew language, but sometimes signifies an abundant and plentiful use of
wine, which is nonetheless a measured amount, as in (<bcv=Gen 43:34>Gen 43:34</bcv>).
#BCV:John 2:12
<h3><verse=John 2:12>John 2:12</verse></h3>

<page=2637>After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his mother, and his (f) brethren, and his disciples:
and they continued there not many days.



(f) That is, his cousins.
#BCV:John 2:13
<h3><verse=John 2:13>John 2:13</verse></h3>




(3) And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went up to Jerusalem,



(3) Christ being made subject to the law for us, satisfies the law of the passover.
#BCV:John 2:14
<h3><verse=John 2:14>John 2:14</verse></h3>




(4) And found in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep and doves, and the changers of money
sitting:



(4) Christ being ordained to purge the Church with great zeal begins his office both of Priest and
Prophet.
#BCV:John 2:17
<h3><verse=John 2:17>John 2:17</verse></h3>



And his disciples remembered that it was written, The (g) zeal of thine house hath eaten me up.



(g) "Zeal" in this place is taken for a wrathful indignation and displeasure of the mind, brought
about when someone deals wickedly and evilly towards those whom we love well.
#BCV:John 2:18
<h3><verse=John 2:18>John 2:18</verse></h3>




(5) Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What (h) sign shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou
doest these things?



(5) Against those who so bind God to an ordinary calling, which they themselves most shamefully
abuse, that they will not admit of an extraordinary calling, which God confirms from heaven (and
they would have it extinguished, although in vain) unless it is sealed with outward and bodily
miracles.



(h) With what miracle do you confirm it, that we may see the heavenly power and strength which
gives you authority to speak and to act in this manner?
#BCV:John 2:21
<h3><verse=John 2:21>John 2:21</verse></h3>

<page=2638>But he spake of the (i) temple of his body.



(i) That is, of his body.
#BCV:John 2:24
<h3><verse=John 2:24>John 2:24</verse></h3>




(6) But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he knew all [men],



(6) It is not good giving credit to those who trust only because of miracles.
#BCV:John 2:25
<h3><verse=John 2:25>John 2:25</verse></h3>




(7) And needed not that any should testify of man: for he knew what was in man.



(7) Christ is the searcher of hearts, and therefore truly God.

<h2>John 3</h2>

#BCV:John 3:1
<h3><verse=John 3:1>John 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2639>There (1) was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a (a) ruler of the Jews:



(1) There are none sometimes more unlearned than the learned, but the learned as well as the
unlearned must desire wisdom from Christ only.



(a) A man of great estimation and a ruler amongst the Jews.
#BCV:John 3:2
<h3><verse=John 3:2>John 3:2</verse></h3>



The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a (b) teacher
come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, (c) except God be with him.



(b) We know that you are sent from God to teach us.



(c) But he in whom some part of the excellency of God appears. And if Nicodemus had rightly
known Christ, he would not only have said that God was with him, but in him, as Paul does in (<bcv=2Co 1:19>Co2 1:19</bcv>).

#BCV:John 3:3
<h3><verse=John 3:3>John 3:3</verse></h3>




(2) Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he
cannot (d) see the (e) kingdom of God.



(2) The beginning of Christianity consists in this, that we know ourselves not only to be corrupt in
part, but to be wholly dead in sin: so that our nature has need to be created anew, with regard to its
qualities, which can be done by no other power, but by the divine and heavenly, by which we were
first created.



(d) That is, "go in", or "enter", as he expounds himself below in (<bcv=John 3:5>Joh 3:5</bcv>).



(e) The Church: for Christ shows here how we come to be citizens and to have anything to do in the
city of God.
#BCV:John 3:4
<h3><verse=John 3:4>John 3:4</verse></h3>



Nicodemus saith unto him, How (f) can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time
into his mother's womb, and be born?



(f) How can I who am old be born again? For Nicodemus answers as if Christ's words were only
addressed to himself.
#BCV:John 3:6
<h3><verse=John 3:6>John 3:6</verse></h3>

#BCV:joh 3:6
<h3><verse=joh 3:6>joh 3:6</verse></h3>




(g) That is, fleshly, namely, wholly unclean and under the wrath of God: and therefore this word
"flesh" signifies the corrupt nature of man: contrary to which is the Spirit, that is, the man ingrafted
into Christ through the grace of the Holy Spirit, whose nature is everlasting and immortal, though
the strife of the flesh remains.
#BCV:John 3:8
<h3><verse=John 3:8>John 3:8</verse></h3>



The wind bloweth where it (h) listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence
it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.



(h) With free and wandering blasts as it wishes.
#BCV:John 3:9
<h3><verse=John 3:9>John 3:9</verse></h3>




(3) Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can these things be?



(3) The secret mystery of our regeneration which cannot be comprehended by man's capacity, is
perceived by faith, and that in Christ only, because he is both God on earth, and man in heaven, that
is to say, man in such a way that he is God also, and therefore almighty: and God in such a way that
he is man also, and therefore his power is made manifest to us.
#BCV:John 3:11
<h3><verse=John 3:11>John 3:11</verse></h3>



Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do know, and testify that we have seen; and ye receive
not our (i) witness.



(i) You handle doubtful things even though you have no solid basis for believing them, and yet men
believe you: but I teach those things that are of a truth and well known, and you do not believe me.
#BCV:John 3:13
<h3><verse=John 3:13>John 3:13</verse></h3>



And no (k) man (l) hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, [even] (m) the
Son of man which (n) is in heaven.



(k) Only Christ can teach us heavenly things, for no man ascends, etc.



(l) That is, has any spiritual light and understanding, or ever had any, but only the Son of God who
came down to us.



(m) Whereas he is said to have come down from heaven, this must be understood as referring to his
Godhead, and of the manner of his conception: for Christ's birth upon the earth was heavenly and
not earthly, for he was conceived by the Holy Spirit.

<page=2641>(n) That which is proper to the divinity of Christ, is here spoken of the whole Christ, to show us
that he is but one person in which two natures are united.
#BCV:John 3:16
<h3><verse=John 3:16>John 3:16</verse></h3>




(5) For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth (o) in
him should not perish, but have everlasting life.



(5) Nothing else but the free love of the Father is the beginning of our salvation, and Christ is he in
whom our righteousness and salvation dwells: and faith is the instrument or means by which we
apprehend it, and everlasting life is that which is set before us to apprehend.



(o) It is not the same to believe in a thing, and to believe about a thing, for we may not believe in
anything except in God alone, but we may believe about anything whatever, says Nazianzene in his
Oration of the Spirit.
#BCV:John 3:17
<h3><verse=John 3:17>John 3:17</verse></h3>




(6) For God sent not his Son into the world (p) to condemn the world; but that the (q) world
through him might be saved.



(6) Christ does not condemn, but rather despising Christ condemns.



(p) That is, to be the cause of the condemning of the world, for indeed sins are the cause of death;
however, Christ will still judge the living and the dead.



(q) Not only the people of the Jews, but whoever will believe in him.
#BCV:John 3:19
<h3><verse=John 3:19>John 3:19</verse></h3>




(7) And this is the (r) condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness
rather than light, because their deeds were evil.



(7) The only reason why men refuse the light that is offered to them is wickedness.



(r) That is, the cause of condemnation, which remains in men, unless through God's great benefit
they are delivered from it.
#BCV:John 3:21
<h3><verse=John 3:21>John 3:21</verse></h3>



But he that (s) doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are
wrought (t) in God.



(s) That is, he that leads an honest life, and is void of all cunning and deceit.



(t) That is, with God, God as it were going before.
#BCV:John 3:25
<h3><verse=John 3:25>John 3:25</verse></h3>


<page=2642>(8) Then there arose a question between [some] of John's disciples and the Jews about purifying.



(8) Satan inflames the disciples of John with a fond emulation of their master in order to hinder the
course of the gospel: but John, being mindful of his office, not only puts a stop to their endeavours,
but also takes occasion by that means to give testimony of Christ, that in him alone the Father has
set forth everlasting life.
#BCV:John 3:27
<h3><verse=John 3:27>John 3:27</verse></h3>



John answered and said, A man (u) can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven.



(u) Why are you trying to better my state? This is every man's lot and portion, that he cannot better
himself in the slightest way.
#BCV:John 3:31
<h3><verse=John 3:31>John 3:31</verse></h3>



He that cometh from above is above all: he that is of the earth is (x) earthly, and (y) speaketh of the
earth: he that cometh from heaven is above all.



(x) Is nothing else but man, a piece of work made of the slime of the earth.



(y) Is characterized by nothing but corruption, ignorance, dulness, etc.
#BCV:John 3:32
<h3><verse=John 3:32>John 3:32</verse></h3>



And what he hath (z) seen and heard, that he testifieth; and (a) no man receiveth his testimony.



(z) What he knows fully and perfectly.



(a) That is, very few.
#BCV:John 3:35
<h3><verse=John 3:35>John 3:35</verse></h3>



The Father loveth the Son, and hath (b) given all things into his hand.



(b) Committed them to his power and will.
#BCV:John 3:36
<h3><verse=John 3:36>John 3:36</verse></h3>



He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not (c) see
life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.



(c) Shall not enjoy.

<h2>John 4</h2>

#BCV:John 4:1
<h3><verse=John 4:1>John 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=2643>When (1) therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more
disciples than John,



(1) This balance is to be kept in doing our duty, that neither by fear are we terrified from going
forward, and neither by rashness procure or bring dangers upon ourselves.
#BCV:John 4:5
<h3><verse=John 4:5>John 4:5</verse></h3>




(2) Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called Sychar, near to the parcel of ground that
Jacob gave to his son Joseph.



(2) Christ, leaving the proud Pharisees, communicates the treasures of everlasting life with a poor
sinful woman and stranger, refuting the gross errors of the Samaritans, and defending the true
service of God, which was delivered to the Jews, but yet in such a way that he here calls both
Samaritans and Jews back to himself, as one whom only all the fathers, and also all the ceremonies
of the law, regarded, and had respect for.
#BCV:John 4:6
<h3><verse=John 4:6>John 4:6</verse></h3>



Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with [his] journey, sat (a) thus on the well:
[and] it was about the (b) sixth hour.



(a) Even as he was weary, or because he was weary.



(b) It was almost noon.
#BCV:John 4:9
<h3><verse=John 4:9>John 4:9</verse></h3>



Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me,
which am a woman of Samaria? for the Jews (c) have no dealings with the Samaritans.



(c) There is no familiarity nor friendship between the Jews and the Samaritans.
#BCV:John 4:10
<h3><verse=John 4:10>John 4:10</verse></h3>



Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest (d) the gift of God, and who it is that saith to
thee, Give me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee (e) living
water.

<page=2644>(d) By this word "the" we are shown that Christ speaks of some excellent gift, that is to say, even
about himself, whom his Father offered to this woman.



(e) This everlasting water, that is to say, the exceeding love of God, is called "living" or "of life", to
make a difference between it and the water that should be drawn out of a well: and these metaphors
are frequently used by the Jews.
#BCV:John 4:20
<h3><verse=John 4:20>John 4:20</verse></h3>




(3) Our fathers worshipped in this (f) mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men
ought to worship.



(3) All the religion of superstitious people stands for the most part upon two pillars, but very weak,
that is to say, upon the perverted examples of the fathers, and a foolish opinion of outward things:
and to refute such errors we have to turn to the word and nature of God.



(f) The name of this mountain is Gerizim, upon which Sanabaletta the Cuthite built a temple with
the permission of Alexander of Macedonia, after the victory of Issica: and he made high priest
there Manasses his son in law; Josephus, book 11.
#BCV:John 4:23
<h3><verse=John 4:23>John 4:23</verse></h3>



But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in (g) spirit
and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.



(g) This word "spirit" is to be taken here as it is set against that commandment which is called carnal
in (<bcv=Heb 7:16>Heb 7:16</bcv>), as the commandment is considered in itself: and so he speaks of "truth" not as we set
it against a lie, but as we take it in respect of the outward ceremonies of the law, which only
shadowed that which Christ indeed performed.
#BCV:John 4:24
<h3><verse=John 4:24>John 4:24</verse></h3>



God [is] a (h) Spirit: and they that worship him must worship [him] in spirit and in truth.



(h) By the word "spirit" he means the nature of the Godhead, and not the third person in the Trinity.
#BCV:John 4:32
<h3><verse=John 4:32>John 4:32</verse></h3>




(4) But he said unto them, I have meat to eat that ye know not of.



(4) We may have care of our bodies, but in such a way that we prefer willingly and freely the
occasion which is offered us to enlarge the kingdom of God before all necessities of this life,
whatever else they may be.
#BCV:John 4:35
<h3><verse=John 4:35>John 4:35</verse></h3>

#BCV:joh 4:35
<h3><verse=joh 4:35>joh 4:35</verse></h3>



your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.



(5) When the spiritual corn is ripe, we must not linger, for so the children of this world would
condemn us.
#BCV:John 4:36
<h3><verse=John 4:36>John 4:36</verse></h3>




(6) And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: that both he that
soweth and he that reapeth may rejoice together.



(6) The doctrine of the prophets was as it were a sowing time, and the doctrine of the gospel, as the
harvest: and there is an excellent agreement between them both, and the ministers of them both.
#BCV:John 4:37
<h3><verse=John 4:37>John 4:37</verse></h3>



And herein is that (i) saying true, One soweth, and another reapeth.



(i) That proverb.
#BCV:John 4:39
<h3><verse=John 4:39>John 4:39</verse></h3>




(7) And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which
testified, He told me all that ever I did.



(7) The Samaritans most joyfully embrace that which the Jews most stubbornly rejected.
#BCV:John 4:43
<h3><verse=John 4:43>John 4:43</verse></h3>




(8) Now after two days he departed thence, and went into (k) Galilee.



(8) The despisers of Christ deprive themselves of his benefit: yet Christ prepares a place for himself.



(k) Into the towns and villages of Galilee, for he would not live in his country of Nazareth, because
they despised him, and where (as the other evangelists write) the efficacy of his benefits was
hindered because of their being incredibly stiffnecked.
#BCV:John 4:46
<h3><verse=John 4:46>John 4:46</verse></h3>




(9) So Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he made the water wine. And there was a certain



(l) nobleman, whose son was sick at Capernaum.



(9) Although Christ is absent in body, yet he works mightily in the believers by his word.

<page=2646>(l) Some of Herod's royal attendants, for though Herod was not a king, but a Tetrarch, yet he was a
king in all respects (or at least the people called him a king) except that he lacked the title of king.

<h2>John 5</h2>

#BCV:John 5:2
<h3><verse=John 5:2>John 5:2</verse></h3>


<page=2647>(1) Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep [market] a (a) pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue



(b) Bethesda, having five porches.



(1) There is no disease so old which Christ cannot heal.



(a) Of which cattle drank, and used to be plunged in, since there was a great abundance of water at
Jerusalem.



(b) That is to say, the house of pouring out, because a great abundance of water was poured out into
that place.
#BCV:John 5:10
<h3><verse=John 5:10>John 5:10</verse></h3>




(2) The Jews therefore said unto him that was cured, It is the sabbath day: it is not lawful for thee to
carry [thy] bed.



(2) True religion is assaulted most cruelly by the pretence of religion itself.
#BCV:John 5:17
<h3><verse=John 5:17>John 5:17</verse></h3>




(3) But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.



(3) The work of God was never the breach of the sabbath, and the works of Christ are the works of
the Father, both because they are one God, and also because the Father does not work except in the

<h1>Son.</h1>

#BCV:John 5:18
<h3><verse=John 5:18>John 5:18</verse></h3>



Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but
said also that God was (c) his Father, making himself equal with God.



(c) That is, his alone and no one else's, which they gather from his saying, "And I work", applying
this word "work" to himself which properly belongs to God, and therefore makes himself equal to
God.
#BCV:John 5:19
<h3><verse=John 5:19>John 5:19</verse></h3>



Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing (d)
of himself, but what he (e) seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth
the Son (f) likewise.

<page=2648>(d) Not only without his Father's authority, but also without his mighty working and power.



(e) This must be understood of the person of Christ, which consists of two natures, and not simply
of his Godhead: so then he says that his Father moves and governs him in all things, but yet
nonetheless, when he says he works with his Father, he confirms his Godhead.



(f) In like sort, jointly and together. Not because the Father does some things, and then the Son
works after him and does the same, but because the might and power of the Father and the Son
work equally and jointly together.
#BCV:John 5:21
<h3><verse=John 5:21>John 5:21</verse></h3>




(4) For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth [them]; even so the Son quickeneth whom
he will.



(4) The Father makes no man partaker of everlasting life except in Christ, in whom alone also he is
truly worshipped.
#BCV:John 5:22
<h3><verse=John 5:22>John 5:22</verse></h3>



For the Father (g) judgeth (h) no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:



(g) This word "judgeth" is taken by the figure of speech synecdoche to represent all governing.



(h) These words are not to be taken as though they simply denied that God governed the world, but
rather they deny that he governed as the Jews imagined it, who separate the Father from the Son,
whereas indeed, the Father does not govern the world, but only in the person of his Son, being
made manifest in the flesh: so he says below in (<bcv=John 5:30>Joh 5:30</bcv>), that he came not to do his own will: that
his doctrine is not his own, that the blind man and his parents did not sin (<bcv=John 7:16>Joh 7:16</bcv>;<bcv=John 9:3> Joh 9:3</bcv>), etc.
#BCV:John 5:24
<h3><verse=John 5:24>John 5:24</verse></h3>




(5) Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath
everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.



(5) The Father is not worshipped except by his Son's word apprehended by faith, which is the only
way that leads to eternal life.
#BCV:John 5:25
<h3><verse=John 5:25>John 5:25</verse></h3>




(6) Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice
of the Son of God: and they that hear shall live.



(6) We are all dead in sin and cannot be made alive by any other means, except by the word of Christ
apprehended by faith.
#BCV:John 5:27
<h3><verse=John 5:27>John 5:27</verse></h3>

<page=2649>And hath given him (i) authority to execute judgment also, because he is (k) the Son of man.



(i) That is, high and sovereign power to rule and govern all things, in so much that he has power
over life and death.



(k) That is, he will not only judge the world as he is God, but also as he is man, he received this from
his Father, to be judge of the world.
#BCV:John 5:28
<h3><verse=John 5:28>John 5:28</verse></h3>




(7) Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his
voice,



(7) All will eventually appear before the judgment seat of Christ to be judged.
#BCV:John 5:29
<h3><verse=John 5:29>John 5:29</verse></h3>




(8) And shall come (l) forth; they that have done good, unto the (m) resurrection of life; and they
that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.



(8) Faith and infidelity will be judged by their fruits.



(l) From their graves.



(m) To that resurrection which has everlasting life following it: against which is set the resurrection
of condemnation, that is, which is followed by condemnation.
#BCV:John 5:30
<h3><verse=John 5:30>John 5:30</verse></h3>




(9) I can (n) of mine own self do nothing: (o) as I hear, I judge: and my judgment is just; because I
seek not mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent me.



(9) The Father is the author and approver of all things which Christ does.



(n) See above in (<bcv=John 5:22>Joh 5:22</bcv>).



(o) As my Father directs me, who dwells in me.
#BCV:John 5:31
<h3><verse=John 5:31>John 5:31</verse></h3>



If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not (p) true.



(p) Faithful, that is, worthy to be credited; see (<bcv=John 8:14>Joh 8:14</bcv>).
#BCV:John 5:33
<h3><verse=John 5:33>John 5:33</verse></h3>


<page=2650>(10) Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth.



(10) Christ is declared to be the only Saviour by John's voice, and infinite miracles, and by the
testimonies of all the prophets. But the world, being addicted to false prophets, and desirous to
seem religious, does not see any of these things.
#BCV:John 5:35
<h3><verse=John 5:35>John 5:35</verse></h3>



He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were willing for (q) a season to rejoice in his light.



(q) A little while.
#BCV:John 5:42
<h3><verse=John 5:42>John 5:42</verse></h3>



But I know you, that ye have not the (r) love of God in you.



(r) Love toward God.
#BCV:John 5:45
<h3><verse=John 5:45>John 5:45</verse></h3>




(s) Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father: there is [one] that accuseth you, [even] Moses,
in whom ye trust.



(s) This denial does not set aside that which is said here, but corrects it, as if Christ said, the most
severe accuser the Jews will have is Moses, not him.

<h2>John 6</h2>

#BCV:John 6:1
<h3><verse=John 6:1>John 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=2651>After these things Jesus went (a) over the sea of Galilee, which is [the sea] of Tiberias.



(a) Not that he cut across the lake of Tiberias, but by sailing across the large creeks he made his
journey shorter: therefore he is said to have gone over the sea, when in reality he passed over from
one side of the creek to the other.
#BCV:John 6:5
<h3><verse=John 6:5>John 6:5</verse></h3>




(1) When Jesus then lifted up [his] eyes, and saw a great company come unto him, he saith unto
Philip, Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?



(1) They that follow Christ sometimes hunger, but they are never without help.
#BCV:John 6:15
<h3><verse=John 6:15>John 6:15</verse></h3>




(2) When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come and take him by force, to make him a king,
he departed again into a mountain himself alone.



(2) Not only is Christ not delighted by a preposterous worship, but he is greatly offended by it.
#BCV:John 6:16
<h3><verse=John 6:16>John 6:16</verse></h3>




(3) And when even was [now] come, his disciples went down unto the sea,



(3) The godly are often in peril and danger, but Christ comes to them in time, even in the midst of
the tempests, and brings them to the haven.
#BCV:John 6:17
<h3><verse=John 6:17>John 6:17</verse></h3>



And entered into a ship, and went over the sea (b) toward Capernaum. And it was now dark, and
Jesus was not come to them.



(b) In (<bcv=Mar 6:45>Mar 6:45</bcv>) they are told to go ahead to Bethsaida, for Bethsaida was along the way to
Capernaum.
#BCV:John 6:21
<h3><verse=John 6:21>John 6:21</verse></h3>



Then they (c) willingly received him into the ship: and immediately the ship was at the land whither
they went.

<page=2652>(c) They were afraid at first, but when they recognized his voice they became new men and took him
willingly into the ship, the very one whom they had shunned and fled from before.
#BCV:John 6:26
<h3><verse=John 6:26>John 6:26</verse></h3>




(4) Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the
miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.



(4) They that seek the kingdom of heaven lack nothing: nevertheless, the gospel is not the food of
the stomach but rather of the mind.
#BCV:John 6:27
<h3><verse=John 6:27>John 6:27</verse></h3>




(d) Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life,
which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father (e) sealed.



(d) Bestow your labour and pain.



(e) That is, whom God the Father had distinguished from all other men by planting his own power
in him, as though he had sealed him with his seal, so that he might be a vivid example and
representation of him: and furthermore he installed him to this office, to reconcile us men to God,
and bring us to everlasting life, which office belongs only to Christ.
#BCV:John 6:28
<h3><verse=John 6:28>John 6:28</verse></h3>



Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the (f) works of God?



(f) Which please God: for they think that everlasting life depends upon the condition of fulfilling the
law: therefore Christ calls them back to faith.
#BCV:John 6:29
<h3><verse=John 6:29>John 6:29</verse></h3>




(5) Jesus answered and said unto them, (g) This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he
hath sent.



(5) Men torment themselves in vain when they try to please God without faith.



(g) That is, this is the work that God requires, that you believe in me, and therefore he calls them
back to faith.
#BCV:John 6:30
<h3><verse=John 6:30>John 6:30</verse></h3>




(6) They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee?
what dost thou work?

<page=2653>(6) The spiritual virtue of Christ is condemned by those that desire earthly miracles.
#BCV:John 6:32
<h3><verse=John 6:32>John 6:32</verse></h3>




(7) Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not (h) that bread from
heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven.



(7) Christ, who is the true and only author and giver of eternal life, was represented unto those in
the Old Testament by the manna.



(h) He denies that manna was the true heavenly bread, and says that he himself is the true bread,
because he feeds the true and everlasting life. And as for (<bcv=1Co 10:1-5>Co1 10:1-5</bcv>), where Paul calls manna
spiritual food, it does not contradict what is said here, for Paul joins the thing signified with the sign:
but in this whole disputation, Christ deals with the Jews after their own opinion and conceit of the
matter, who thought of the manna only in terms of physical food.
#BCV:John 6:35
<h3><verse=John 6:35>John 6:35</verse></h3>



And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread (i) of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he
that believeth on me shall never thirst.



(i) Which has life and gives life.
#BCV:John 6:37
<h3><verse=John 6:37>John 6:37</verse></h3>




(8) All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast
out.



(8) The gift of faith proceeds from the free election of the Father in Christ, after which everlasting
life necessarily follows: therefore faith in Christ Jesus is a sure witness of our election, and therefore
of our glorification, which is to come.
#BCV:John 6:38
<h3><verse=John 6:38>John 6:38</verse></h3>



For I came down from heaven, not to do mine (k) own will, but the will of him that sent me.



(k) See above in (<bcv=John 5:22>Joh 5:22</bcv>).
#BCV:John 6:40
<h3><verse=John 6:40>John 6:40</verse></h3>



And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which (l) seeth the Son, and believeth on him,
may have everlasting life: and I will raise him up at the last day.

<page=2654>(l) Seeing and believing are joined together: for there is another type of seeing which is general,
which the demons have, for they see: but here he speaks about that type of seeing which properly
belongs to the elect.
#BCV:John 6:41
<h3><verse=John 6:41>John 6:41</verse></h3>




(9) The Jews then murmured at him, because he said, I am the bread which came down from heaven.



(9) Flesh cannot perceive spiritual things, and therefore the beginning of our salvation comes from
God, who changes our nature, so that we, being inspired by him, may remain to be instructed and
saved by Christ.
#BCV:John 6:45
<h3><verse=John 6:45>John 6:45</verse></h3>



It is written in the (m) prophets, And they shall be all (n) taught of God. Every man therefore that
hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.



(m) In the book of the prophets, for the Old Testament was divided by them into three general
parts: into the law, the prophets, and the holy writings.



(n) That is, they will be children of the Church, for so the prophet Isaiah expounds it in (<bcv=Isa 54:13>Isa 54:13</bcv>);
that is to say, ordained to life, See<bcv=Acts 13:48> Act 13:48</bcv>, and therefore the knowledge of the heavenly truth is the
gift and work of God, and does not rest in any power of man.
#BCV:John 6:46
<h3><verse=John 6:46>John 6:46</verse></h3>



Not that any man hath seen the Father, (o) save he which is of God, he hath seen the Father.



(o) If only the Son has seen the Father, then it is only he that can truly teach us and instruct us.
#BCV:John 6:48
<h3><verse=John 6:48>John 6:48</verse></h3>




(10) I am that bread of life.



(10) The true use of sacraments is to ascend from them to the thing itself, that is, to Christ: and by
the partaking of him alone we get everlasting life.
#BCV:John 6:50
<h3><verse=John 6:50>John 6:50</verse></h3>




(p) This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die.



(p) He refers to himself when he speaks these words.
#BCV:John 6:51
<h3><verse=John 6:51>John 6:51</verse></h3>

#BCV:joh 6:51
<h3><verse=joh 6:51>joh 6:51</verse></h3>



shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.



(11) Christ being sent from the Father is the selfsame unto us for the getting and keeping of
everlasting life, as bread and flesh, yea, meat and drink, are to the use of this transitory life.



(q) Which gives life to the world.



(r) That is to say, whoever is truly a partaker of Christ, who is our food.
#BCV:John 6:52
<h3><verse=John 6:52>John 6:52</verse></h3>




(12) The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us [his] flesh to eat?



(12) Flesh cannot make a difference between fleshly eating, which is done by the help of the teeth,
and spiritual eating, which consists in faith: and therefore it condemns that which it does not
understand: yet nonetheless, the truth must be preached and taught.
#BCV:John 6:53
<h3><verse=John 6:53>John 6:53</verse></h3>



Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man,
and drink his blood, ye have (s) no life in you.



(s) If Christ is present, life is present, but when Christ is absent, then death is present.
#BCV:John 6:57
<h3><verse=John 6:57>John 6:57</verse></h3>



As (t) the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the (u) Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall
live by me.



(t) In that Christ is man, he receives that power which quickens and gives life to those that are his,
from his Father: and he adds this word "the" to make a distinction between his Father and all other
fathers.



(u) Christ means that although he is man, yet his flesh can give life, not by its own nature, but
because his flesh lives by the Father, that is to say, sucks and draws out of the Father that power
which it has to give life.
#BCV:John 6:60
<h3><verse=John 6:60>John 6:60</verse></h3>




(13) Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard [this], said, This is an hard saying; who
can hear it?

<page=2656>(13) The reason of man cannot comprehend the uniting of Christ and his members: therefore let it
worship and revere that which is better than itself.
#BCV:John 6:63
<h3><verse=John 6:63>John 6:63</verse></h3>




(14) It is the (x) spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you,
[they] are spirit, and [they] are life.



(14) The flesh of Christ therefore quickens us, because he that is man is God: and this mystery is
only comprehended by faith, which is the gift of God, found only in the elect.



(x) Spirit, that is, that power which flows from the Godhead causes the flesh of Christ (which is
otherwise nothing but flesh) both to live in itself and to give life to us.
#BCV:John 6:66
<h3><verse=John 6:66>John 6:66</verse></h3>




(15) From that [time] many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.



(15) Such is the malice of men, that they bring about their own destruction, even in hearing the very
doctrine of salvation, but there are a few who believe through the singular gift of God.
#BCV:John 6:70
<h3><verse=John 6:70>John 6:70</verse></h3>




(16) Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?



(16) The number of the professors of Christ is very small, and among them also there are some
hypocrites, and those worse than all others.

<h2>John 7</h2>

#BCV:John 7:2
<h3><verse=John 7:2>John 7:2</verse></h3>

<page=2657>Now the Jews' (a) feast of tabernacles was at hand.



(a) This feast was so called because of the booths and tents which they made out of different types
of boughs, and sat under them seven days altogether; and during this entire time the feast went on.
#BCV:John 7:3
<h3><verse=John 7:3>John 7:3</verse></h3>




(1) His brethren therefore said unto him, Depart hence, and go into Judaea, that thy disciples also
may see the works that thou doest.



(1) The grace of God comes not by inheritance, but it is a gift that comes in another way: because
of this it occurs that the children of God often suffer more affliction from their own relatives than
from strangers.
#BCV:John 7:5
<h3><verse=John 7:5>John 7:5</verse></h3>



For neither did his (b) brethren believe in him.



(b) His relatives: for the Hebrews used to speak in this way.
#BCV:John 7:6
<h3><verse=John 7:6>John 7:6</verse></h3>




(2) Then Jesus said unto them, My time is not yet come: but your time is alway ready.



(2) We must not follow the foolish desires of our friends.
#BCV:John 7:10
<h3><verse=John 7:10>John 7:10</verse></h3>




(3) But when his brethren were gone up, then went he also up unto the feast, not openly, but as it
were in secret.



(3) An example of horrible confusion in the very bosom of the Church. The pastors oppress the
people with terror and fear: the people seek Christ, when he does not appear: when he offers
himself, they neglect him. Some also that know him condemn him rashly: only a very few think well
of him, and even then in secret.
#BCV:John 7:13
<h3><verse=John 7:13>John 7:13</verse></h3>



Howbeit no man spake (c) openly of him for fear of the Jews.

<page=2658>(c) Or, boldly and freely: for the majority of the Jews wanted nothing more than to extinguish his
fame and his name.
#BCV:John 7:14
<h3><verse=John 7:14>John 7:14</verse></h3>




(4) Now about the (d) midst of the feast Jesus went up into the temple, and taught.



(4) Christ uses goodness to strive against the wickedness of the world: in the meanwhile most men
are offended even by that fame by which they ought to have been stirred up to embrace Christ.



(d) About the fourth day of the feast.
#BCV:John 7:16
<h3><verse=John 7:16>John 7:16</verse></h3>




(5) Jesus answered them, and said, (e) My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me.



(5) Therefore there are few to whom the gospel appeals, because the giving of serious attention to
godliness is very rare.



(e) See above in (<bcv=John 5:22>Joh 5:22</bcv>); and he speaks this in accordance with the opinion of the Jews, as if he
said, "My doctrine is not mine, that is, it is not the doctrine of myself, whom you consider to be just
a mere man and therefore treat me lightly, but it is his that sent me."
#BCV:John 7:18
<h3><verse=John 7:18>John 7:18</verse></h3>




(6) He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him,
the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.



(6) The true doctrine of salvation differs from the false in this, that the true doctrine sets forth the
glory of God, and the false doctrine by puffing up men, dishonouring the glory of God.
#BCV:John 7:19
<h3><verse=John 7:19>John 7:19</verse></h3>




(7) Did not Moses give you the law, and [yet] none of you keepeth the law? Why go ye about to kill
me?



(7) None boast more confidently that they themselves are the defenders of the law of God than
they that break it most impudently.
#BCV:John 7:21
<h3><verse=John 7:21>John 7:21</verse></h3>




(8) Jesus answered and said unto them, I have done one work, and ye all marvel.

<page=2659>(8) The sabbath day (which is here set before us as a standard of all ceremonies) was not appointed
to hinder, but to further and practise God's works, amongst which the main one is the love of our
neighbour.
#BCV:John 7:23
<h3><verse=John 7:23>John 7:23</verse></h3>



If a man on the sabbath day receive circumcision, that the (f) law of Moses should not be broken;
are ye angry at me, because I have made a man every whit whole on the sabbath day?



(f) That is to say, if the law of circumcision which Moses gave matters so much to you that you do
not hesitate to circumcise upon the sabbath, do you rightly reprove me for thoroughly healing a man?
#BCV:John 7:24
<h3><verse=John 7:24>John 7:24</verse></h3>




(9) Judge not (g) according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.



(9) We must judge according to the truth of things, lest men turn us from the truth and carry us
away.



(g) By the show that I make: for I seem to be a despicable person from among the rabble of Galilee,
and a carpenter's son, whom no man considers to be very important: but mark the matter itself well,
and judge the tree by the fruit.
#BCV:John 7:25
<h3><verse=John 7:25>John 7:25</verse></h3>




(10) Then said some of them of Jerusalem, Is not this he, whom they seek to kill?



(10) Many marvel that the endeavours of the enemies of God have no success, but in the meanwhile
they do not acknowledge the strength and power of God.
#BCV:John 7:27
<h3><verse=John 7:27>John 7:27</verse></h3>




(11) Howbeit we know this man whence he is: but when Christ cometh, no man knoweth whence he

<h1>is.</h1>




(11) Men are very wise to have checks and balances for their own thoughts.
#BCV:John 7:28
<h3><verse=John 7:28>John 7:28</verse></h3>




(12) Then cried Jesus in the temple as he taught, saying, Ye both know me, and ye know whence I
am: and I am not come of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not.



(12) The truth of Christ does not depend upon the judgment of man.
#BCV:John 7:30
<h3><verse=John 7:30>John 7:30</verse></h3>

#BCV:joh 7:30
<h3><verse=joh 7:30>joh 7:30</verse></h3>



come.



(13) The wicked cannot do what they desire, but what God has appointed.
#BCV:John 7:32
<h3><verse=John 7:32>John 7:32</verse></h3>




(14) The Pharisees heard that the people murmured such things concerning him; and the Pharisees
and the chief priests sent officers to take him.



(14) As the kingdom of God increases, so increases the rage of his enemies, till at last they seek in
vain for those missing blessings which they despised when they were present.

#BCV:John 7:35
<h3><verse=John 7:35>John 7:35</verse></h3>

Then said the Jews among themselves, Whither will he go, that we shall not find him? will he go
unto the (h) dispersed among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles?

(h) Literally, "to the dispersion of the Gentiles" or "Greeks", and under the name of the Greeks he
refers to the Jews who were dispersed among the Gentiles.

#BCV:John 7:37
<h3><verse=John 7:37>John 7:37</verse></h3>

(15) In the (i) last day, that great [day] of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst,
let him come unto me, and drink.

(15) There are two principles of our salvation: the one is to be thoroughly touched with a true
feeling of our extreme poverty: the other to seek in Christ only (whom we catch hold of by faith)
the abundance of all good things.

(i) The last day of the feast of tabernacles, that is, the eighth day, was as celebrated a day as the first.

#BCV:John 7:38
<h3><verse=John 7:38>John 7:38</verse></h3>

He that believeth on me, as the (k) scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living
water.

(k) The scripture being referred to is not found anywhere word for word, but rather Christ seems to
be referring to many different places where mention is made of the gifts of the Holy Spirit; see 
<bcv=Isa 2:28-29>(Joe 2:28-29;</bcv><bcv=Isa 44:3> Isa 44:3</bcv>) and especially (<bcv=Isa 55:1-13>Isa 55:1-13</bcv>).

#BCV:John 7:39
<h3><verse=John 7:39>John 7:39</verse></h3>

<page=2661>(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the (l) Holy
Ghost was not yet [given]; because that Jesus was not yet (m) glorified.)

(l) What is meant by the Holy Spirit he expressed a little before, speaking of the Spirit which they
that believed in him should receive. So that by the name of Holy Spirit are meant the powers and
mighty workings of the Holy Spirit.

(m) That is, those things were not yet seen and perceived which were to show and set forth the glory
of the only begotten.

#BCV:John 7:40
<h3><verse=John 7:40>John 7:40</verse></h3>

(16) Many of the people therefore, when they heard this saying, said, Of a truth this is the Prophet.

(16) There is contention even in the Church itself about the main point of religion: neither has
Christ any more cruel enemies than those that occupy the seat of truth: yet they cannot do what
they would.

#BCV:John 7:45
<h3><verse=John 7:45>John 7:45</verse></h3>

(17) Then came the officers to the chief priests and Pharisees; and they said unto them, Why have ye
not brought him?

(17) God scorns from heaven those who are his Son's enemies.

#BCV:John 7:48
<h3><verse=John 7:48>John 7:48</verse></h3>



(18) Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed on him?



(18) False pastors are so stupid and foolish that they consider the Church of God to be of value
according to the number of people in it, and from the outward show of it.
#BCV:John 7:51
<h3><verse=John 7:51>John 7:51</verse></h3>



Doth our law judge [any] man, before it hear him, and know (n) what he doeth?



(n) What the one who is accused has committed.
#BCV:John 7:53
<h3><verse=John 7:53>John 7:53</verse></h3>




(19) And every man went unto his own house.



(19) There is no counsel against the Lord.

<h2>John 8</h2>

#BCV:John 8:3
<h3><verse=John 8:3>John 8:3</verse></h3>


<page=2662>(1) And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had
set her in the midst,



(1) While the wicked go about to make a snare for good men, they make a snare for themselves.
#BCV:John 8:7
<h3><verse=John 8:7>John 8:7</verse></h3>




(2) So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without
sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.



(2) Against hypocrites who are very severe judges against other men, and flatter themselves while
they are sinning.
#BCV:John 8:10
<h3><verse=John 8:10>John 8:10</verse></h3>




(3) When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where
are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?



(3) Christ would not take upon himself the office of the civil magistrate: he was content to bring
sinners to faith and repentance.
#BCV:John 8:12
<h3><verse=John 8:12>John 8:12</verse></h3>




(4) Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall
not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.



(4) The world, which is blind in itself, cannot come to have any light but in Christ alone.
#BCV:John 8:13
<h3><verse=John 8:13>John 8:13</verse></h3>




(5) The Pharisees therefore said unto him, (a) Thou bearest record of thyself; thy record is not true.



(5) Christ is without all exception the best witness of the truth, for he was sent by his Father for that
purpose, and his Father showed his approval of him to the world by infinite miracles.



(a) You bear witness of yourself, which is worth nothing in the opinion of all men, and for a man to
commend himself is very uncommendable.
#BCV:John 8:14
<h3><verse=John 8:14>John 8:14</verse></h3>

<page=2663>Jesus answered and said unto them, (b) Though I bear record of myself, [yet] my record is true: for I
know whence I came, and whither I go; but ye cannot tell whence I come, and whither I go.



(b) That which he denied before in (<bcv=John 5:31>Joh 5:31</bcv>) must be understood as Christ granting their position in
a way, for in that place he talked of himself somewhat in line with the opinions of his hearers, who
acknowledged nothing in Christ but his humanity, and therefore he was content they should not
regard his own witness, unless it were otherwise confirmed. But in this place he stands and affirms
Godhead, and praises his Father, who is his witness, and agrees with him.
#BCV:John 8:15
<h3><verse=John 8:15>John 8:15</verse></h3>



Ye judge after the flesh; I (c) judge no man.



(c) I am presently only teaching you, I condemn no man: but yet if I want to do it, I might lawfully
do it, for I am not alone, but my Father is with me.
#BCV:John 8:18
<h3><verse=John 8:18>John 8:18</verse></h3>




(d) I am one that bear witness of myself, and the Father that sent me beareth witness of me.



(d) The Godhead is plainly distinguished from the manhood, or else there would not be two
witnesses: for the accused party is not taken as a witness.
#BCV:John 8:19
<h3><verse=John 8:19>John 8:19</verse></h3>




(6) Then said they unto him, Where is thy Father? Jesus answered, Ye neither know me, nor my
Father: if ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also.



(6) No man can know God except in Christ alone.
#BCV:John 8:20
<h3><verse=John 8:20>John 8:20</verse></h3>



These words spake Jesus in the (e) treasury, as he taught in the temple: and no man laid hands on
him; (7) for his hour was not yet come.



(e) This was a certain place appointed for the gathering of the offerings. (7) We live and die
according to the pleasure of God, and not of men: therefore it behooves us that we constantly go
forward in our calling.
#BCV:John 8:21
<h3><verse=John 8:21>John 8:21</verse></h3>




(8) Then said Jesus again unto them, I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins:
whither I go, ye cannot come.

<page=2664>(8) Because men naturally abhor heavenly things, no man can be a fit disciple of Christ unless the
Spirit of God makes him so: in the meantime nonetheless, the world must necessarily perish,
because it refuses the life that is offered unto it.
#BCV:John 8:25
<h3><verse=John 8:25>John 8:25</verse></h3>




(9) Then said they unto him, Who art thou? And Jesus saith unto them, Even (f) [the same] that I
said unto you from the beginning.



(9) He will eventually know who Christ is who will diligently hear what Christ says.



(f) That is, I am Christ, and the Saviour, for so I told you from the beginning that I was.
#BCV:John 8:26
<h3><verse=John 8:26>John 8:26</verse></h3>




(10) I have many things to say and to judge of you: but he that sent me is true; and I speak to the
world those things which I have heard of him.



(10) God is the avenger of Christ's despised doctrine.
#BCV:John 8:27
<h3><verse=John 8:27>John 8:27</verse></h3>




(11) They understood not that he spake to them of the Father.



(11) Even the contempt of Christ results in his glory: and this thing his enemies will eventually feel
to their great pain.
#BCV:John 8:31
<h3><verse=John 8:31>John 8:31</verse></h3>




(12) Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, [then] are ye
my disciples indeed;



(12) The true disciples of Christ continue in his doctrine, that profiting more and more in the
knowledge of the truth they may be delivered from the most grievous burden of sin, into the true
liberty of righteousness and life.
#BCV:John 8:32
<h3><verse=John 8:32>John 8:32</verse></h3>



And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall (g) make you free.



(g) From the slavery of sin.
#BCV:John 8:33
<h3><verse=John 8:33>John 8:33</verse></h3>


<page=2665>(h) They answered him, We be (i) Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how
sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?



(h) Some of the multitude, not they that believed: for this is not the speech of men that agree with
him, but of men that are against him.



(i) Born and begotten of Abraham.
#BCV:John 8:37
<h3><verse=John 8:37>John 8:37</verse></h3>




(13) I know that ye are Abraham's seed; but ye seek to kill me, because my word hath no place in
you.



(13) Our wicked manners declare that we are obviously born of a wicked nature: but we are changed,
and made part of the household of God according to the covenant which he made with Abraham
by Christ alone, apprehended and laid hold on by faith: and this faith is known by a godly and
honest life.
#BCV:John 8:43
<h3><verse=John 8:43>John 8:43</verse></h3>



Why do ye not understand my (k) speech? [even] because ye cannot hear my word.



(k) Or, language: as though he said, "You do not understand what I say any more than if I spoke in a
strange and unknown language to you."
#BCV:John 8:44
<h3><verse=John 8:44>John 8:44</verse></h3>



Ye are of [your] father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the



(l) beginning, and (m) abode not in the (n) truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh
a lie, he speaketh of his (o) own: for he is a liar, and the (p) father of it.



(l) From the beginning of the world: for as soon as man was made, the devil cast him headlong into
death.



(m) That is, did not continue constantly, or did not remain.



(n) That is, in faithfulness and uprightness, that is, he did not remain in the manner in which he was
created.



(o) Even from his own head, and from his own mind or disposition.



(p) The author of it.
#BCV:John 8:46
<h3><verse=John 8:46>John 8:46</verse></h3>




(14) Which of you convinceth me of sin? And if I say the truth, why do ye not believe me?

<page=2666>(14) Christ thoroughly executed the office that his Father gave him.
#BCV:John 8:48
<h3><verse=John 8:48>John 8:48</verse></h3>




(15) Then answered the Jews, and said unto him, Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast
a devil?



(15) The enemies of Christ act bravely for a while, but the Father will appear in his time to avenge
the reproach that is done unto him in the person of his Son.
#BCV:John 8:50
<h3><verse=John 8:50>John 8:50</verse></h3>



And I seek not mine own glory: there is one (q) that seeketh and judgeth.



(q) That is, that will avenge both your despising of me and of him.
#BCV:John 8:51
<h3><verse=John 8:51>John 8:51</verse></h3>




(16) Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never (r) see death.



(16) Only the doctrine of the gospel apprehended by faith is a sure remedy against death.



(r) That is, he will not feel it: for even in the midst of death the faithful see life.
#BCV:John 8:52
<h3><verse=John 8:52>John 8:52</verse></h3>




(17) Then said the Jews unto him, Now we know that thou hast a devil. Abraham is dead, and the
prophets; and thou sayest, If a man keep my saying, he shall never taste of death.



(17) Against those who abuse the glory of the saints to debase Christ's glory.
#BCV:John 8:54
<h3><verse=John 8:54>John 8:54</verse></h3>




(18) Jesus answered, If I honour myself, my honour is (s) nothing: it is my Father that honoureth me;
of whom ye say, that he is your God:



(18) There is no one further from seeking glory than Christ, but his Father has set him above all
things.



(s) In saying this Christ grants their opinion, though not agreeing with it, as if he had said, "Be it so,
let this report which I give of myself be of no force; yet there is another that glorifies me, that is,
that honours my name."
#BCV:John 8:55
<h3><verse=John 8:55>John 8:55</verse></h3>


<page=2667>(19) Yet ye have not known him; but I know him: and if I should say, I know him not, I shall be a
liar like unto you: but I know him, and keep his saying.



(19) There is no right knowledge of God without Christ, neither is there any right knowledge of
Christ without his word.
#BCV:John 8:56
<h3><verse=John 8:56>John 8:56</verse></h3>




(20) Your father Abraham (t) rejoiced to see my (u) day: and he (x) saw [it], and was glad.



(20) The power of Christ showed itself through all former ages in the fathers, for they saw in the
promises that he would come, and very joyfully laid hold of him with a living faith.



(t) Was very desirous.



(u) A day is a space that a man lives in, or does any notable act in, or endures any great thing in.



(x) With the eyes of faith; (<bcv=Heb 11:13>Heb 11:13</bcv>).
#BCV:John 8:58
<h3><verse=John 8:58>John 8:58</verse></h3>



Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I (y) am.



(y) Christ, as he was God, was before Abraham: and he was the Lamb slain from the beginning of
the world.
#BCV:John 8:59
<h3><verse=John 8:59>John 8:59</verse></h3>




(21) Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid himself, and went out of the temple,
going through the midst of them, and so passed by.



(21) Zeal without knowledge eventually breaks out into a most open madness: and yet the wicked
cannot do what they desire.

<h2>John 9</h2>

#BCV:John 9:1
<h3><verse=John 9:1>John 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=2668>And (1) as [Jesus] passed by, he saw a man which was blind from [his] birth.



(1) Sin is even the beginning of all bodily diseases, and yet it does not follow that in punishing, even
very severely, that God is punishing because of sin.
#BCV:John 9:3
<h3><verse=John 9:3>John 9:3</verse></h3>



Jesus answered, (a) Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should
be made manifest in him.



(a) Christ reasons here as his disciples thought, who presupposed that no diseases came except for
the reason of sins: as a result of this he answers that there was another cause of this man's blindness,
and that was in order that God's work might be seen.
#BCV:John 9:4
<h3><verse=John 9:4>John 9:4</verse></h3>




(2) I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is (b) day: the night cometh, when no man
can work.



(2) The works of Christ are is it were a light, which enlighten the darkness of the world.



(b) By "day" is meant the light, that is, the enlightening doctrine of the heavenly truth: and by night
is meant the darkness which comes by the obscurity of the same doctrine.
#BCV:John 9:6
<h3><verse=John 9:6>John 9:6</verse></h3>




(3) When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed
the eyes of the blind man with the clay,



(3) Christ healing the man born blind by taking the symbol of clay, and afterward the symbol of the
fountain of Siloam (which signifies "sent") shows that as he at the beginning made man, so does he
again restore both his body and soul: and yet in such a way that he himself comes first of his own
accord to heal us.
#BCV:John 9:8
<h3><verse=John 9:8>John 9:8</verse></h3>




(4) The neighbours therefore, and they which before had seen him that he was blind, said, Is not this
he that sat and begged?

<page=2669>(4) A true image of all men, who as they are naturally blind do not themselves receive the light that
is offered unto them, nor endure it in another, and yet make a great fuss among themselves.
#BCV:John 9:10
<h3><verse=John 9:10>John 9:10</verse></h3>



Therefore said they unto him, How were thine eyes (c) opened?



(c) This is a Hebrew idiom, for they call a man's eyes shut when they cannot receive any light: and
therefore blind men who are made to see are said to have their eyes opened.
#BCV:John 9:16
<h3><verse=John 9:16>John 9:16</verse></h3>




(5) Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the
sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division
among them.



(5) Religion is assaulted most by the pretence of religion: but the more it is pressed down, the more
it rises up.
#BCV:John 9:24
<h3><verse=John 9:24>John 9:24</verse></h3>



Then again called they the man that was blind, and said unto him, (d) Give God the praise: we know
that this man is a (e) sinner.



(d) A solemn order, by which men were put under oath in ancient time to acknowledge their fault
before God, as if it was said to them, "Consider that you are before God, who knows the entire
matter, and therefore be sure that you revere his majesty, and do him this honour and confess the
whole matter openly rather than to lie before him"; (<bcv=Jos 7:19>Jos 7:19</bcv>; <bcv=1Sa 6:5>Sa1 6:5).</bcv>



(e) He is called a sinner in the Hebrew language, who is a wicked man, and someone who makes an
art of sinning.
#BCV:John 9:28
<h3><verse=John 9:28>John 9:28</verse></h3>




(6) Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disciple; but we are Moses' disciples.



(6) Eventually, proud wickedness must necessarily break forth, which lies vainly hidden under a zeal
of godliness.
#BCV:John 9:34
<h3><verse=John 9:34>John 9:34</verse></h3>



They answered and said unto him, (f) Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us?
And they cast him out.

<page=2670>(f) You are wicked even from your cradle, and as we used to say, there is nothing in you but sin.
#BCV:John 9:35
<h3><verse=John 9:35>John 9:35</verse></h3>




(7) Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou
believe on the Son of God?



(7) Most happy is their state who are cast furthest out of the Church of the wicked (who themselves
proudly boast to be of the Church) so that Christ may come nearer to them.
#BCV:John 9:39
<h3><verse=John 9:39>John 9:39</verse></h3>




(8) And Jesus said, For (g) judgment I am come into this world, that they (h) which see not might see;
and that they which see might be made blind.



(8) Christ enlightens all those by the preaching of the Gospel who acknowledge their own darkness,
but those who seem to themselves to see clearly enough, those he altogether blinds: and these latter
ones are often those who have the highest place in the Church.



(g) With great power and authority, to do what is righteous and just: as if he said, "These men take
upon themselves to govern the people of God after their own desire, as though they saw all things,
and no one else did: but I will rule much differently than these men do: for those whom they
consider as blind men, them will I enlighten, and those who take themselves to be wisest, them will I
drown in most abundant darkness of ignorance.



(h) In these words of seeing and not seeing there is a secret taunting and rebuff to the Pharisees: for
they thought all men to be blind but themselves.

<h2>John 10</h2>

#BCV:John 10:1
<h3><verse=John 10:1>John 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=2671>Verily, (1) verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up
some other way, the same is a thief and a robber.



(1) Seeing that by Christ alone we have access to the Father, there are no true shepherds other than
those who come to Christ themselves and bring others there also, neither is any to be thought to be
in the true sheepfold but those who are gathered to Christ.
#BCV:John 10:3
<h3><verse=John 10:3>John 10:3</verse></h3>



To him the (a) porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name,
and leadeth them out.



(a) In those days they used to have a servant always sitting at the door, and therefore he speaks after
the manner of those days.
#BCV:John 10:6
<h3><verse=John 10:6>John 10:6</verse></h3>



This (b) parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he
spake unto them.



(b) This word "parable", which the evangelist uses here, signifies a hidden type of speech, when
words are not used with their natural meaning, but are used to signify another thing to us.
#BCV:John 10:8
<h3><verse=John 10:8>John 10:8</verse></h3>




(2) All that (c) ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them.



(2) It does not matter how many false teachers there have been, neither how old they have been.



(c) These terms must be applied to the matter he speaks of. And therefore when he calls himself the
door, he calls all those thieves and robbers who take upon themselves this name of "door", which
none of the prophets can do, for they showed the sheep that Christ was the door.
#BCV:John 10:9
<h3><verse=John 10:9>John 10:9</verse></h3>




(3) I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall (d) go in and out, and find
pasture.



(3) Only Christ is the true Pastor, and those only are the true Church who acknowledge him to
properly be their only Pastor: opposite to him are thieves who do not feed the sheep, but kill them:
<page=2672>and hirelings also, who forsake the flock in time of danger, because they feed it only for their own
profit and gains.



(d) That is, will live safely, as the Jews used to speak (see (<bcv=Deu 26:6-10>Deu 26:6-10</bcv>)), and yet there is a special
reference to the shepherd's office.
#BCV:John 10:15
<h3><verse=John 10:15>John 10:15</verse></h3>



As the Father (e) knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep.



(e) Loves me, allows me.
#BCV:John 10:16
<h3><verse=John 10:16>John 10:16</verse></h3>




(4) And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear
my voice; and there shall be (f) one fold, [and] one shepherd.



(4) The calling of the Gentiles.



(f) The distinguishing mark of the Christian Church throughout all the world, is that it has only one
head, that is Christ, the only keeper, and only shepherd of it.
#BCV:John 10:17
<h3><verse=John 10:17>John 10:17</verse></h3>




(5) Therefore doth my Father love me, because (g) I lay down my life, that I might take it again.



(5) Christ is by the decree of the Father the only true shepherd of the true Church, for he willingly
gave his life for his sheep, and by his own power rose again to life.



(g) He uses the present tense because Christ's whole life was as it were a perpetual death.
#BCV:John 10:19
<h3><verse=John 10:19>John 10:19</verse></h3>




(6) There was a division therefore again among the Jews for these sayings.



(6) The gospel uncovers hypocrisy, and therefore the world must necessarily rage when the gospel
comes forth.
#BCV:John 10:22
<h3><verse=John 10:22>John 10:22</verse></h3>



And it was at Jerusalem the feast of the (h) dedication, and it was winter.



(h) The feast of the dedication was instituted by Judas Maccabeus and his brethren after the
restoring of God's true religion, by the casting out of Antiochus' garrison.
#BCV:John 10:23
<h3><verse=John 10:23>John 10:23</verse></h3>

#BCV:joh 10:23
<h3><verse=joh 10:23>joh 10:23</verse></h3>




(7) The unbelievers and proud men accuse the gospel of darkness, and this very darkness is indeed
within themselves.
#BCV:John 10:25
<h3><verse=John 10:25>John 10:25</verse></h3>




(8) Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not: the works that I do in my Father's name,
they bear witness of me.



(8) The doctrine of the gospel is proved from heaven by two witnesses: both by the purity of the
doctrine and by miracles.
#BCV:John 10:26
<h3><verse=John 10:26>John 10:26</verse></h3>




(9) But ye believe not, (i) because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you.



(9) It is no marvel that only a few believe, seeing that all men are by nature untamed beasts: yet
nonetheless God has his own, which he turns into sheep, and commits them unto his Son, and
preserves them against the cruelty of all wild beasts.



(i) He gives a reason why they do not believe, that is, because they are not his sheep.
#BCV:John 10:31
<h3><verse=John 10:31>John 10:31</verse></h3>




(10) Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him.



(10) Christ proves his dignity by divine works.
#BCV:John 10:32
<h3><verse=John 10:32>John 10:32</verse></h3>



Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my (k) Father; for which of those
works do ye stone me?



(k) Through my Father's authority and power.
#BCV:John 10:35
<h3><verse=John 10:35>John 10:35</verse></h3>



If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be (l) broken;



(l) Void and of no effect.
#BCV:John 10:39
<h3><verse=John 10:39>John 10:39</verse></h3>


<page=2674>(11) Therefore they sought again to take him: but he escaped out of their hand,



(11) Christ flees danger, not because of mistrust, nor for fear of death, nor that he would be lazy,
but to gather a Church in another place.

<h2>John 11</h2>

#BCV:John 11:1
<h3><verse=John 11:1>John 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=2675>Now (1) a certain [man] was sick, [named] Lazarus, of Bethany, the (a) town of Mary and her sister
Martha.



(1) Christ, in restoring the rotting body of his friend to life, shows an example both of his mighty
power, and also of his singular good will toward men: and this is also an image of the resurrection
to come.



(a) Where his sisters dwelt.
#BCV:John 11:6
<h3><verse=John 11:6>John 11:6</verse></h3>




(2) When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he
was.



(2) In that thing which God sometimes seems to linger in helping us, he does it both for his glory,
and for our salvation, as the end result of the matter clearly proves.
#BCV:John 11:8
<h3><verse=John 11:8>John 11:8</verse></h3>




(3) [His] disciples say unto him, Master, the Jews of late sought to stone thee; and goest thou thither
again?



(3) This alone is the sure and right way to life, to follow God boldly without fear, who calls us and
shines before us in the darkness of this world.
#BCV:John 11:9
<h3><verse=John 11:9>John 11:9</verse></h3>



Jesus answered, Are there not (c) twelve hours in the day? If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth
not, because he seeth the light of this world.



(c) All things happen in a proper way and are brought to pass in their due time.
#BCV:John 11:11
<h3><verse=John 11:11>John 11:11</verse></h3>



These things said he: and after that he saith unto them, Our friend Lazarus (d) sleepeth; but I go,
that I may awake him out of sleep.



(d) The Jews used a milder kind of speech and called death "sleep", and this same manner of speech
is found in other languages, who call the place of burial where the dead are laid waiting for the
resurrection a "sleeping place".
#BCV:John 11:19
<h3><verse=John 11:19>John 11:19</verse></h3>


<page=2676>(4) And many of the Jews came to Martha and Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother.



(4) God, who is the maker of nature, does not condemn natural emotions, but shows that they
ought to be guided by the rule of faith.
#BCV:John 11:23
<h3><verse=John 11:23>John 11:23</verse></h3>



Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall (e) rise again.



(e) That is, will recover life again.
#BCV:John 11:33
<h3><verse=John 11:33>John 11:33</verse></h3>




(5) When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he (f)
groaned in the spirit, and was troubled,



(5) Christ took upon himself together with our flesh all affections of man (sin alone excepted), and
amongst them especially mercy and compassion.



(f) These are signs that he was greatly moved, but yet these signs were without sin: and these
affections belong to man's nature.
#BCV:John 11:46
<h3><verse=John 11:46>John 11:46</verse></h3>




(6) But some of them went their ways to the Pharisees, and told them what things Jesus had done.



(6) The last aspect of hard and ironlike stubbornness is to proclaim open war against God, and yet it
does not cease to make a pretence both of godliness and of the profit of the nation.

#BCV:John 11:47
<h3><verse=John 11:47>John 11:47</verse></h3>



Then gathered the chief priests and the Pharisees a (g) council, and said, What do we? for this man
doeth many miracles.



(g) The Jews called the council sanhedrin: and the word that John uses is <transgreek>Synedri.<english>

#BCV:John 11:48
<h3><verse=John 11:48>John 11:48</verse></h3>



If we let him thus alone, all [men] will believe on him: and the Romans shall come and (h) take away
both our place and nation.

<page=2677>(h) That is, take away from us by force: for at that time, though the high priest's authority was greatly
lessened and weakened, yet there was some type of government left among the Jews.
#BCV:John 11:49
<h3><verse=John 11:49>John 11:49</verse></h3>




(7) And one of them, [named] Caiaphas, being the high priest that same year, said unto them, Ye
know nothing at all,



(7) The raging and angry company of the false church persuade themselves that they cannot be in
safety, unless he is taken away, who alone upholds the Church. And the wisdom of the flesh judges
in the same way in worldly affairs, which is governed by the spirit of giddiness or madness.
#BCV:John 11:51
<h3><verse=John 11:51>John 11:51</verse></h3>




(8) And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest that year, he prophesied that Jesus should
die for that nation;



(8) Christ sometimes turns the tongues, even of the wicked, so that even in cursing they bless.
#BCV:John 11:52
<h3><verse=John 11:52>John 11:52</verse></h3>



And not for that nation only, but that also he should gather together in one the children of God that



(i) were scattered abroad.



(i) For they were not gathered together in one country, as the Jews were, but were to be gathered
from all quarters, from the east to the west.
#BCV:John 11:54
<h3><verse=John 11:54>John 11:54</verse></h3>




(9) Jesus therefore walked no more openly among the Jews; but went thence unto a country near to
the wilderness, into a city called Ephraim, and there continued with his disciples.



(9) We may give place to the rage of the wicked, when it is expedient to do so, but yet in such a way
that we do not swerve from God's calling.

<h2>John 12</h2>

#BCV:John 12:5
<h3><verse=John 12:5>John 12:5</verse></h3>


<page=2678>(1) Why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor?



(1) A horrible example in Judas of a mind blinded with covetousness, and yet pretending godliness.
#BCV:John 12:7
<h3><verse=John 12:7>John 12:7</verse></h3>




(2) Then said Jesus, Let her alone: against the day of my burying hath she kept this.



(2) This extraordinary anointing, which was a sign, is allowed by God so that he may witness that he
will not be worshipped with outward pomp or costly service, but with alms.
#BCV:John 12:9
<h3><verse=John 12:9>John 12:9</verse></h3>




(3) Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there: and they came not for Jesus' sake
only, but that they might see Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead.



(3) When the light of the gospel shows itself, some are found to be curious, and others are found to
be open enemies (and these latter ones should be the least opposed to the gospel): others fervently
honour him whom they will immediately fall away from, and very few receive him as reverently as
they ought to. Nonetheless, Christ begins his spiritual kingdom in the midst of his enemies.
#BCV:John 12:19
<h3><verse=John 12:19>John 12:19</verse></h3>




(4) The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, Perceive ye how ye prevail nothing? behold, the
world is gone after him.



(4) Even they who go about to oppress Christ are made instruments of his glory.
#BCV:John 12:20
<h3><verse=John 12:20>John 12:20</verse></h3>



And there were certain Greeks among them that (a) came up to worship at the feast:



(a) After the solemn custom: the Greeks were first so called by the name of the country of Greece,
where they lived: but afterward, all that were not of the Jew's religion, but worshipped false gods and
were also called heathens, were called by the name Greeks.
#BCV:John 12:24
<h3><verse=John 12:24>John 12:24</verse></h3>




(5) Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and (b) die, it abideth
alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit.

<page=2679>(5) The death of Christ is as it were a sowing, which seems to be a dying of the corn, but indeed is
the cause of a much greater harvest: and such as is the condition of the head, so will be the
condition of the members.



(b) A wheat corn dies when it is changed in the ground, and becomes the root of a fruitful new
plant.
#BCV:John 12:27
<h3><verse=John 12:27>John 12:27</verse></h3>




(6) Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father, save me from this (c) hour: but for this
cause came I unto this hour.



(6) While Christ went about to suffer all the punishment which is due to our sins, and while his
divinity did not yet show his might and power so that the satisfaction might be fully accomplished,
he is stricken with the great fear of the curse of God, and so he cries and prays, and desires to be
released: yet nonetheless he prefers the will and glory of his Father before all things, and his Father
allows this obedience even from heaven.



(c) That is, of death which is now at hand.
#BCV:John 12:28
<h3><verse=John 12:28>John 12:28</verse></h3>



Father, (d) glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, [saying], I have both glorified [it],
and will glorify [it] again.



(d) So then the Father's glory is Christ's glory.
#BCV:John 12:30
<h3><verse=John 12:30>John 12:30</verse></h3>




(7) Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes.



(7) Christ foretells to the deaf the manner of his death, the overcoming of the devil and the world,
and in conclusion his triumph.
#BCV:John 12:32
<h3><verse=John 12:32>John 12:32</verse></h3>



And I, if I be (e) lifted up from the earth, will draw (f) all [men] unto me.



(e) Christ used a word which has a double meaning, for it signifies either to lift up or to get out of
the way: for he intended them to think of his death, but the Jews seemed to take it another way.



(f) Chrysostom and Theophylact say that this word "all" refers to all nations: that is, not only to the
Jews.
#BCV:John 12:35
<h3><verse=John 12:35>John 12:35</verse></h3>

#BCV:joh 12:35
<h3><verse=joh 12:35>joh 12:35</verse></h3>



lest darkness come upon you: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth.



(8) Unmeasurable is the mercy of God, but a horrible judgment follows if it is condemned.
#BCV:John 12:36
<h3><verse=John 12:36>John 12:36</verse></h3>



While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be the (g) children of light. These things spake
Jesus, and departed, and did hide himself from them.



(g) That is, partakers of light.
#BCV:John 12:37
<h3><verse=John 12:37>John 12:37</verse></h3>




(9) But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him:



(9) Faith is not of nature, but of grace.
#BCV:John 12:38
<h3><verse=John 12:38>John 12:38</verse></h3>



That the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake, Lord, who hath believed
our report? and to whom hath the (h) arm of the Lord been revealed?



(h) The arm of the Lord is the gospel, which is the power of God to salvation to all that believe,
and therefore the arm of the Lord is not revealed to those whose hearts the Lord has not opened.
#BCV:John 12:42
<h3><verse=John 12:42>John 12:42</verse></h3>




(10) Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees
they did not confess [him], lest they should be put out of the synagogue:



(10) The ones who believe are not only few in number, if they are compared with the unbelievers,
but also the majority of those few (yea, and especially the ones of highest rank) fear men more than
God.
#BCV:John 12:44
<h3><verse=John 12:44>John 12:44</verse></h3>




(11) Jesus cried and said, He that believeth on me, believeth (i) not on me, but on him that sent me.



(11) The sum of the gospel, and therefore of salvation, which Christ witnessed in the midst of
Jerusalem by his crying out, is this: to rest upon Christ through faith as the only Saviour appointed
and given us by the Father.

<page=2681>(i) This word "not" does not take anything away from Christ which is spoken of here, but is rather
spoken in way of correction, as if he said, "He that believes in me does not so much believe in me
as in him that sent me." So is it in (<bcv=Mar 9:37>Mar 9:37</bcv>).

<h2>John 13</h2>

#BCV:John 13:1
<h3><verse=John 13:1>John 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=2682>Now (1) before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should
depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his (a) own which were in the world, he loved
them unto the end.



(1) Christ is as sure of the victory as he is of the combat which was at hand, and by using the sign
of washing the feet, gives by this an example in part of singular modesty, and his great love toward
his apostles in this notable act, being likely to depart very shortly from them: and he partly witnesses
unto them that it is he alone who washes away the filth of his people, and sanctifies them little by
little in their time and season.



(a) Those of his household, that is, his saints.
#BCV:John 13:3
<h3><verse=John 13:3>John 13:3</verse></h3>



Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his (b) hands, and that he was come from
God, and went to God;



(b) Into his power.
#BCV:John 13:4
<h3><verse=John 13:4>John 13:4</verse></h3>



He (c) riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself.



(c) In that he is said to rise, it argues that there was a space of time between the ceremony of the
passover and this washing of feet, at which time it seems that the Lord's supper was instituted.
#BCV:John 13:8
<h3><verse=John 13:8>John 13:8</verse></h3>



Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou
hast (d) no part with me.



(d) Unless you allow me to wash you, you will have no part in the kingdom of heaven.
#BCV:John 13:18
<h3><verse=John 13:18>John 13:18</verse></h3>




(2) I speak not of you all: I know whom I have chosen: but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He
that eateth bread with me hath lifted up his heel against me.

<page=2683>(2) The betraying of Christ was not accidental, or a thing that happened by chance, but it was the
Father who ordained the cause of our salvation, to reconcile us unto himself in his Son, and the Son
willingly and voluntarily obeyed the Father.
#BCV:John 13:21
<h3><verse=John 13:21>John 13:21</verse></h3>



When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and (e) testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say
unto you, that one of you shall betray me.



(e) He affirmed it openly and sealed it.
#BCV:John 13:23
<h3><verse=John 13:23>John 13:23</verse></h3>



Now there was (f) leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved.



(f) John's leaning was such that sitting down on his mat his head was toward the head of Jesus: for it
is certain that in ancient times men used to not sit at the table, but to lie down on one of their sides.
#BCV:John 13:31
<h3><verse=John 13:31>John 13:31</verse></h3>




(3) Therefore, when he was gone out, Jesus said, (g) Now is the Son of man glorified, and God is
glorified in him.



(3) We have to see the glorifying of Christ in his dishonour.



(g) This verse and the one following are a most plain and evident testimony to the divinity of Christ.
#BCV:John 13:33
<h3><verse=John 13:33>John 13:33</verse></h3>




(4) Little children, yet a little while I am with you. Ye shall seek me: and as I said unto the Jews,
Whither I go, ye cannot come; so now I say to you.



(4) The eternal glory will flow little by little from the head into the members. But meanwhile, we
must take good heed that we run the race of this life in brotherly love.
#BCV:John 13:36
<h3><verse=John 13:36>John 13:36</verse></h3>




(5) Simon Peter said unto him, Lord, whither goest thou? Jesus answered him, Whither I go, thou
canst not follow me now; but thou shalt follow me afterwards.



(5) A weighty example of rash trust and confidence.

<h2>John 14</h2>

#BCV:John 14:1
<h3><verse=John 14:1>John 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=2684>Let (1) not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.



(1) He believes in God who believes in Christ, and there is no other way to strengthen and
encourage our minds during the greatest distresses.
#BCV:John 14:2
<h3><verse=John 14:2>John 14:2</verse></h3>



In my Father's house are many mansions: if [it were] not [so], (a) I would have told you. I go to (b)
prepare a place for you.



(a) That is, if it were not as I am telling you, that is, unless there was room enough not only for me,
but also for you in my Father's house, I would not deceive you in this way with a vain hope, but I
would have plainly told you so.



(b) This whole speech is an allegory, by which the Lord comforts his own, declaring to them his
departure into heaven; and he departs not to reign there alone, but to go before and prepare a place
for them.
#BCV:John 14:3
<h3><verse=John 14:3>John 14:3</verse></h3>




(2) And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will (c) come again, and receive you unto myself; that
where I am, [there] ye may be also.



(2) Christ did not go away from us with the intent of forsaking us, but rather that he might
eventually take us up with him into heaven.



(c) These words are to be understood as being said to the whole Church, and therefore the angels
said to the disciples when they were astonished, "Why do you stand gazing up into heaven? This
Jesus will so come as you saw him go up", (<bcv=Acts 1:11>Act 1:11</bcv>). And in all places of the Scripture the full
comfort of the Church is considered to be that day when God will be all in all, and is therefore
called the day of redemption.
#BCV:John 14:4
<h3><verse=John 14:4>John 14:4</verse></h3>




(3) And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.



(3) Christ alone is the way to true and everlasting life, for it is he in whom the Father has revealed
himself.
#BCV:John 14:6
<h3><verse=John 14:6>John 14:6</verse></h3>

<page=2685>Jesus saith unto him, I am (d) the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by
me.




(d) This saying shows unto us the nature, the will, and office of Christ.
#BCV:John 14:7
<h3><verse=John 14:7>John 14:7</verse></h3>




(e) If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him,
and have seen him.



(e) It is plain by this verse that to know God and to see God is the same thing. Now whereas he said
before that no man saw God at any time, it is to be understood in this way: without Christ, or were it
not through Christ, no man could ever see God, nor ever saw God, at any time: for as Chrysostom
says, the Son is a very concise and plain setting forth of the Father's nature to us.
#BCV:John 14:10
<h3><verse=John 14:10>John 14:10</verse></h3>




(4) Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you
I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.



(4) The majesty of God shows itself most evidently both in Christ's doctrine and in his deeds.
#BCV:John 14:12
<h3><verse=John 14:12>John 14:12</verse></h3>




(5) Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and (f)
greater [works] than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.



(5) Christ's power is not only shown within his own person, but it is spread through the body of his
entire Church.



(f) That is, not only do them, but I can also give other men power to do greater.
#BCV:John 14:15
<h3><verse=John 14:15>John 14:15</verse></h3>




(6) If ye love me, keep my commandments.



(6) He loves Christ rightly who obeys his commandment: and because obedience to Christ is
accompanied with an infinite type and amount of miseries, although he is absent in body, yet he
comforts his own with the present power of the Holy Spirit, whom the world despises, because it
does not know him.
#BCV:John 14:17
<h3><verse=John 14:17>John 14:17</verse></h3>

<page=2686>[Even] the (g) Spirit of truth; whom the (h) world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither
knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.



(g) The Holy Spirit is called the Spirit of truth by reason of that which he does, because he inspires
the truth into us, because he has the truth in himself.



(h) Worldly men.
#BCV:John 14:20
<h3><verse=John 14:20>John 14:20</verse></h3>



At that day ye shall know that I [am] (i) in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.



(i) The Son is in the Father in such a way that he is of one selfsame substance with the Father, but
he is in his disciples in a different way, as an aider and helper of them.
#BCV:John 14:21
<h3><verse=John 14:21>John 14:21</verse></h3>



He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me
shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will (k) manifest myself to him.



(k) I will show myself to him, and be known by him, as if he saw me with his eyes: but this showing
of himself is not bodily, but spiritual, yet so plain that no other showing could be more evident.
#BCV:John 14:22
<h3><verse=John 14:22>John 14:22</verse></h3>




(7) Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not
unto the world?



(7) We must not ask why the gospel is revealed to some rather than to others, but we must rather
take heed that we embrace Christ who is offered unto us, and that we truly love him, that is to say,
that we give ourselves wholly to obeying him.
#BCV:John 14:25
<h3><verse=John 14:25>John 14:25</verse></h3>




(8) These things have I spoken unto you, being [yet] present with you.



(8) It is the duty and responsibility of the Holy Spirit to imprint in the minds of the elect, in their
times and seasons, that which Christ once said.
#BCV:John 14:27
<h3><verse=John 14:27>John 14:27</verse></h3>




(9) Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not
your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.



(9) All true comfort and peace comes to us by Christ alone.
#BCV:John 14:28
<h3><verse=John 14:28>John 14:28</verse></h3>


<page=2687>(10) Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come [again] unto you. If ye loved me, ye
would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is (l) greater than I.



(10) We should in no way be sorry for the departing of Christ from us according to the flesh, but
rather we should rejoice in it, seeing that all the blessing of the body depends upon the glorifying of
the head.



(l) This is spoken in that Christ is mediator, for in this regard the Father is greater than he, in as
much as the person to whom request is made is greater than he that makes the request.
#BCV:John 14:30
<h3><verse=John 14:30>John 14:30</verse></h3>




(11) Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath (m)
nothing in me.



(11) Christ goes to death not unwillingly, but willingly, not that he is yielding to the devil, but rather
that he is obeying his Father's decree.



(m) As one would say, "Satan will eventually set upon me with all the might he can, but he has no
power over me, neither will he find any such thing in me as he thinks he will."

<h2>John 15</h2>

#BCV:John 15:1
<h3><verse=John 15:1>John 15:1</verse></h3>

<page=2688>I (1) am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.



(1) We are by nature dry and fit for nothing but the fire. Therefore, in order that we may live and be
fruitful, we must first be grafted into Christ, as it were into a vine, by the Father's hand: and then be
daily moulded with a continual meditation of the word, and the cross: otherwise it will not avail any
man at all to have been grafted unless he cleaves fast to the vine, and so draws juice out of it.
#BCV:John 15:7
<h3><verse=John 15:7>John 15:7</verse></h3>




(2) If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto
you.



(2) Whoever rests in Christ's doctrine abides in him, and therefore brings forth good fruit, and the
Father will not deny anything to such a person as this.
#BCV:John 15:8
<h3><verse=John 15:8>John 15:8</verse></h3>




(a) Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.



(a) As one would say, "Herein will my Father be glorified, and herein also will you be my disciples, if
you bring forth much fruit."
#BCV:John 15:9
<h3><verse=John 15:9>John 15:9</verse></h3>




(3) As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: (b) continue ye in my love.



(3) The love of the Father towards the Son, and of the Son towards us, and of us toward God and
our neighbour, are joined together with an inseparable knot: and there is nothing more sweet and
pleasant than it is. Now this love shows itself by its effects, a most perfect example of which Christ
himself exhibits to us.



(b) That is, in that love with which I love you, which love is the responsibility of both parties.
#BCV:John 15:15
<h3><verse=John 15:15>John 15:15</verse></h3>




(4) Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have
called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.

<page=2689>(4) The doctrine of the gospel, as it is uttered by Christ's own mouth, is a most perfect and absolute
declaration of the counsel of God, which pertains to our salvation and is committed unto the
apostles.
#BCV:John 15:16
<h3><verse=John 15:16>John 15:16</verse></h3>




(5) Ye (c) have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring
forth fruit, and [that] your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my
name, he may give it you.



(5) Christ is the author and preserver of the ministry of the gospel, even to the end of the world,
but the ministers have above all things need of prayer and brotherly love.



(c) These words plainly teach us that our salvation comes only from the favour and gracious
goodness of the everlasting God towards us, and of nothing that we do or can deserve.
#BCV:John 15:18
<h3><verse=John 15:18>John 15:18</verse></h3>




(6) If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before [it hated] you.



(6) When the faithful ministers of Christ are hated by the world as their master was, it should not
cause them to fear, but rather strengthen and encourage them.
#BCV:John 15:21
<h3><verse=John 15:21>John 15:21</verse></h3>




(7) But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that
sent me.



(7) The hatred that the world bears against Christ proceeds from the stupidity of the mind, which
nonetheless is voluntarily blind, so that those of the world cannot give any excuse to explain away
their fault.
#BCV:John 15:22
<h3><verse=John 15:22>John 15:22</verse></h3>




(d) If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin: but now they have no cloke for
their sin.



(d) As one would say, "If I had not come, these men would not have been wrong in saying before
God's judgment seat that they are religious, and void of sin: but since I came to them, and they
completely rejected me, they can have no cloak for their wickedness."
#BCV:John 15:25
<h3><verse=John 15:25>John 15:25</verse></h3>

<page=2690>But [this cometh to pass], that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their (e) law, They hated
me without a cause.



(e) Sometimes this word "law" refers to the five books of Moses, but in this place it refers to the
whole scripture: for the place that he refers to is found in the Psalms.
#BCV:John 15:26
<h3><verse=John 15:26>John 15:26</verse></h3>




(8) But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, [even] the Spirit
of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:



(8) We will surely stand against the rage of the wicked by the inward testimony of the Holy Spirit.
But the Holy Spirit speaks in no other way and is consistent with what he spoke by the mouth of the
apostles.

<h2>John 16</h2>

#BCV:John 16:1
<h3><verse=John 16:1>John 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=2691>These (1) things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be offended.



(1) The ministers of the gospel must expect all types of reproaches, not only by those who are open
enemies, but even by those also who seem to be of the same household, and the very pillars of the
Church.
#BCV:John 16:7
<h3><verse=John 16:7>John 16:7</verse></h3>




(2) Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the
Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.



(2) The absence of Christ according to the flesh is profitable to the Church in that it causes the
Church to be wholly dependant upon his spiritual power.
#BCV:John 16:8
<h3><verse=John 16:8>John 16:8</verse></h3>




(3) And when he is come, he will (a) reprove the (b) world of sin, and of righteousness, and of
judgment:



(3) The Spirit of God works so mightily by the preaching of the word that he forces the world,
whether or not it wants to, to confess its own unrighteousness and Christ's righteousness and
almightiness.



(a) He will so reprove the world, that those of the world will not be able to give any excuse.



(b) He refers to the time that followed his ascension, when as all those opposed were manifestly
reproved, through the pouring out of the Holy Spirit upon the Church: so that the very enemies of
Christ were reproved of sin, in that they were forced to confess that they were deceived, in that they
believed not, and therefore they said to Peter in (<bcv=Acts 2:37>Act 2:37</bcv>), "Men and brethren, what shall we do?"
#BCV:John 16:10
<h3><verse=John 16:10>John 16:10</verse></h3>



Of (c) righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;



(c) Of Christ himself: for when the world will see that I have poured out the Holy Spirit they will be
forced to confess that I was just, and was not condemned by my Father when I went out of this
world.
#BCV:John 16:11
<h3><verse=John 16:11>John 16:11</verse></h3>

<page=2692>Of (d) judgment, (e) because the prince of this world is judged.



(d) Of that authority and power which I have both in heaven and in earth.



(e) That is, because they will then understand and indeed know that I have overcome the devil, and
govern the world, and then all men will see that they set themselves against you in vain, for I will
arm you with heavenly power by which you may destroy every high thing which is lifted up against
the knowledge of God; (<bcv=2Co 10:5>Co2 10:5</bcv>).
#BCV:John 16:12
<h3><verse=John 16:12>John 16:12</verse></h3>




(4) I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.



(4) The doctrine of the apostles proceeded from the Holy Spirit, and is most perfect.
#BCV:John 16:14
<h3><verse=John 16:14>John 16:14</verse></h3>




(5) He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew [it] unto you.



(5) The Holy Spirit brings no new doctrine, but teaches that which was uttered by Christ's own
mouth, and imprints it in our minds.
#BCV:John 16:16
<h3><verse=John 16:16>John 16:16</verse></h3>




(6) A (f) little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little while, and ye shall see me, (g) because
I go to the Father.



(6) The grace of the Holy Spirit is a most distinct mirror in which Christ is truly beheld with the
most sharp sighted eyes of faith, and not with the blurred eyes of the flesh: and by this we feel a
continual joy even in the midst of sorrows.



(f) When a little time is past.



(g) For I go on to eternal glory, so that I will be much more present with you than I was before: for
then you will feel indeed what I am, and what I am able to do.
#BCV:John 16:25
<h3><verse=John 16:25>John 16:25</verse></h3>




(7) These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but the time cometh, when I shall no more
speak unto you in proverbs, but I shall shew you plainly of the Father.



(7) The Holy Spirit, who was poured upon the apostles after the ascension of Christ, instructed both
them in all the central mysteries and secrets of our salvation, and also the Church by them, and he
will also instruct the Church until the end of the world.
#BCV:John 16:26
<h3><verse=John 16:26>John 16:26</verse></h3>

#BCV:joh 16:26
<h3><verse=joh 16:26>joh 16:26</verse></h3>




(8) The sum of the worship of God is the invocation of the Father in the name of the Son the
mediator, who is already heard for us, for whom he both abased himself, and is now also glorified.
#BCV:John 16:29
<h3><verse=John 16:29>John 16:29</verse></h3>




(9) His disciples said unto him, Lo, now speakest thou plainly, and speakest no proverb.



(9) Faith and foolish security differ greatly.
#BCV:John 16:32
<h3><verse=John 16:32>John 16:32</verse></h3>




(10) Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own,
and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me.



(10) Neither the wickedness of the world, neither the weakness of his own, can diminish anything
of the virtue of Christ.
#BCV:John 16:33
<h3><verse=John 16:33>John 16:33</verse></h3>




(11) These things I have spoken unto you, that (h) in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall
have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.



(11) The surety and foundation of the Church depends only upon the victory of Christ.



(h) That in me you might be thoroughly quieted. For by "peace" is meant here that quiet state of
mind which is completely contrary to disquietness and great sadness.

<h2>John 17</h2>

#BCV:John 17:1
<h3><verse=John 17:1>John 17:1</verse></h3>

<page=2694>These (1) words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven, and said, (2) Father, the hour is come;
glorify thy Son, that thy Son also may glorify thee:



(1) Jesus Christ, the everlasting high Priest, being ready to immediately offer himself up, by solemn
prayers consecrates himself to God the Father as a sacrifice, and us together with himself. Therefore
this prayer was from the beginning, is, and will be to the end of the world, the foundation and
ground of the Church of God. (2) He first declares that as he came into the world so that the Father
might show in him (being apprehended by faith) his glory in saving his elect, so he applied himself
to that only: and therefore he desires from the Father that he would bless the work which he had
finished.
#BCV:John 17:2
<h3><verse=John 17:2>John 17:2</verse></h3>



As thou hast given him power over (a) all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou
hast given him.



(a) Over all men.
#BCV:John 17:3
<h3><verse=John 17:3>John 17:3</verse></h3>



And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the (b) only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom
thou hast sent.



(b) He calls the Father the only true God in order to set him against all false gods, and to include
himself and the Holy Spirit, for he immediately joins the knowledge of the Father and the
knowledge of himself together, and according to his accustomed manner sets forth the whole
Godhead in the person of the Father. So is the Father alone said to be King, immortal, wise,
dwelling in light which no man can attain unto, and invisible; (<bcv=Rom 16:27>Rom 16:27</bcv>; <bcv=1Ti 1:17>Ti1 1:17</bcv>).

#BCV:John 17:6
<h3><verse=John 17:6>John 17:6</verse></h3>




(3) I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: (c) thine they
were, and thou (d) gavest them me; and they have kept thy word.



(3) First of all he prays for his disciples by whom he would have the rest of his disciples gathered
together, and commends them unto the Father (having already rejected the whole company of the
reprobate) because he received them from his Father into his custody, and because by embracing his
doctrine, they will have so many and so mighty enemies, that there is no way for them to be in safety,
except by his help.

<page=2695>(c) He shows by this the everlasting election and choice, which was hidden in the good will and
pleasure of God, which is the groundwork of our salvation.



(d) He shows that the everlasting and hidden purpose of God is declared in Christ, by whom we are
justified and sanctified, if we lay hold of him by faith, so that we may eventually come to the glory
of the election.
#BCV:John 17:11
<h3><verse=John 17:11>John 17:11</verse></h3>



And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father,
keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be (c) one, as we [are].



(c) He prays that his people may peaceably agree and be joined together in one, that as the Godhead
is one, so they may be of one mind and one consent together.
#BCV:John 17:15
<h3><verse=John 17:15>John 17:15</verse></h3>




(4) I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them
from the evil.



(4) He shows what type of deliverance he means: not that they should be in no danger, but that in
being preserved from all they might prove by experience that the doctrine of salvation is true, which
doctrine they received from his mouth to deliver to others.
#BCV:John 17:17
<h3><verse=John 17:17>John 17:17</verse></h3>




(f) Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.



(f) That is, make them holy: and that thing is said to be holy which is dedicated to God and belongs
to him alone.
#BCV:John 17:18
<h3><verse=John 17:18>John 17:18</verse></h3>




(5) As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.



(5) Moreover, he adds that the apostles have a calling common with him, and therefore that they
must be held up by the very same virtue to give themselves up wholly to God, by which Christ, who
was first, did consecrate himself to the Father.
#BCV:John 17:19
<h3><verse=John 17:19>John 17:19</verse></h3>



And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the (g) truth.

<page=2696>(g) The true and substantial sanctification of Christ is contrasted with the outward purifyings of the
law.
#BCV:John 17:20
<h3><verse=John 17:20>John 17:20</verse></h3>




(6) Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;



(6) Secondly, he offers to God the Father all of his, that is, all those who will believe in him by the
doctrine of the apostles: that as he cleaves unto the Father, receiving from him all fulness, so they
being joined with him may receive life from him, and being loved together in him, may also with him
eventually enjoy everlasting glory.
#BCV:John 17:26
<h3><verse=John 17:26>John 17:26</verse></h3>




(7) And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare [it]: that the love wherewith thou hast
loved me may be in them, and I in them.



(7) He communicates the knowledge of the Father with his own little by little, which knowledge is
most full in Christ the mediator, that they may in him be beloved by the Father, with the selfsame
love with which he loves the Son.

<h2>John 18</h2>

#BCV:John 18:1
<h3><verse=John 18:1>John 18:1</verse></h3>

<page=2697>When (1) Jesus had spoken these words, he went forth with his disciples over the brook Cedron,
where was a garden, into the which he entered, and his disciples.



(1) Christ goes of his own accord into a garden, which his betrayer knew, to be taken, so that by his
obedience he might take away the sin that entered into the world by one man's rebellion, and that in
a garden.
#BCV:John 18:3
<h3><verse=John 18:3>John 18:3</verse></h3>




(2) Judas then, having received a band [of men] and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees,
cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons.



(2) Christ who was innocent was taken as a wicked person, that we who are wicked might be let go
as innocent.
#BCV:John 18:4
<h3><verse=John 18:4>John 18:4</verse></h3>




(3) Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon him, went forth, and said unto them,
Whom seek ye?



(3) Christ's person (but not his power) was bound by his adversaries, but only when and how he
desired.
#BCV:John 18:8
<h3><verse=John 18:8>John 18:8</verse></h3>




(4) Jesus answered, I have told you that I am [he]: if therefore ye seek me, let these go their way:



(4) Christ does not neglect the office of a good pastor, not even in his greatest danger.
#BCV:John 18:10
<h3><verse=John 18:10>John 18:10</verse></h3>




(5) Then Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote the high priest's servant, and cut off his
right ear. The servant's name was Malchus.



(5) We ought to contain our zeal for God within the bounds of our calling.
#BCV:John 18:13
<h3><verse=John 18:13>John 18:13</verse></h3>




(6) And led him away to Annas first; for he was father in law to Caiaphas, which was the high priest
that same year.

<page=2698>(6) Christ is brought before an earthly high priest to be condemned for our blasphemies, that we
might be acquitted by the everlasting high Priest himself.
#BCV:John 18:15
<h3><verse=John 18:15>John 18:15</verse></h3>




(7) And Simon Peter followed Jesus, and [so did] another disciple: that disciple was known unto the
high priest, and went in with Jesus into the palace of the high priest.



(7) A graphic example of the fragility of men, even the best of them, when they are left to
themselves.
#BCV:John 18:19
<h3><verse=John 18:19>John 18:19</verse></h3>




(8) The high priest then asked Jesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine.



(8) Christ defends his cause, but only slightly, not that he would withdraw himself from death, but to
show that he was condemned as someone who was innocent.
#BCV:John 18:25
<h3><verse=John 18:25>John 18:25</verse></h3>




(9) And Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. They said therefore unto him, Art not thou also
[one] of his disciples? He denied [it], and said, I am not.



(9) After men have once fallen, they cannot only not lift themselves up by their own strength, but
also they fall more and more into a worse condition, until they are raised up again by a new power
from God.
#BCV:John 18:28
<h3><verse=John 18:28>John 18:28</verse></h3>




(10) Then led they Jesus from (a) Caiaphas unto the hall of judgment: and it was early; and they
themselves went not into the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled; but that they might eat the
passover.



(10) The Son of God is brought before the judgment seat of an earthly and profane man, in whom
there is found much less wickedness than in the rulers of the people of God. A graphic image of
the wrath of God against sin, and in addition of his great mercy, and last of all of his most severe
judgment against the stubborn condemners of his grace when it is offered unto them.



(a) From Caiaphas' house.
#BCV:John 18:31
<h3><verse=John 18:31>John 18:31</verse></h3>



Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye him, and judge him according to your law. The Jews therefore
said unto him, (b) It is not lawful for us to put any man to death:

<page=2699>(b) For judgments of life and death were taken from them forty years before the destruction of the
temple.
#BCV:John 18:32
<h3><verse=John 18:32>John 18:32</verse></h3>



That the saying of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spake, (c) signifying what death he should die.



(c) For Christ had foretold that he would be crucified.
#BCV:John 18:36
<h3><verse=John 18:36>John 18:36</verse></h3>




(11) Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then
would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not
from hence.



(11) Christ affirms his spiritual kingdom, but rejects a worldly one.
#BCV:John 18:38
<h3><verse=John 18:38>John 18:38</verse></h3>




(12) Pilate saith unto him, (d) What is truth? And when he had said this, he went out again unto the
Jews, and saith unto them, I find in him no fault [at all].



(12) It was required that Christ should be pronounced innocent, but nonetheless, in that he took
upon himself our person, he was to be condemned as a most wicked man.



(d) He speaks this disdainfully and scoffingly, and not by way of asking a question.
#BCV:John 18:40
<h3><verse=John 18:40>John 18:40</verse></h3>



Then (e) cried they all again, saying, Not this man, but Barabbas. Now Barabbas was a robber.



(e) Literally, "made a great and foul voice".

<h2>John 19</h2>

#BCV:John 19:1
<h3><verse=John 19:1>John 19:1</verse></h3>

<page=2700>Then Pilate therefore took Jesus, and (1) scourged [him].



(1) The wisdom of the flesh chooses the least of two evils, but God curses that very wisdom.
#BCV:John 19:4
<h3><verse=John 19:4>John 19:4</verse></h3>




(2) Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold, I bring him forth to you, that ye
may know that I find no fault in him.



(2) Christ is again acquitted by the same mouth with which he was afterwards condemned.
#BCV:John 19:6
<h3><verse=John 19:6>John 19:6</verse></h3>



When the chief priests therefore and officers saw him, they cried out, saying, (a) Crucify [him],
crucify [him]. Pilate saith unto them, Take ye him, and crucify [him]: for I find no fault in him.



(a) They will have him crucified whom, by an old custom of theirs, they should have stoned and
hanged up as convicted of blasphemy: but they desire to have him crucified after the manner of the

<h1>Romans.</h1>

#BCV:John 19:8
<h3><verse=John 19:8>John 19:8</verse></h3>




(3) When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he was the more afraid;



(3) Pilate's conscience fights for Christ, but it immediately yields, because it is not upheld with the
singular power of God.
#BCV:John 19:13
<h3><verse=John 19:13>John 19:13</verse></h3>




(4) When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment
seat in a place that is called the Pavement, but in the Hebrew, (b) Gabbatha.



(4) Pilate condemns himself first, with the same mouth with which he afterwards condemns Christ.



(b) "Gabbatha" signifies a high place, as judgment seats are.
#BCV:John 19:16
<h3><verse=John 19:16>John 19:16</verse></h3>




(5) Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified. And they took Jesus, and led [him]
away.

<page=2701>(5) Christ fastens Satan, sin, and death to the cross.
#BCV:John 19:19
<h3><verse=John 19:19>John 19:19</verse></h3>




(6) And Pilate wrote a title, and put [it] on the cross. And the writing was, JESUS OF NAZARETH
THE KING OF THE JEWS.



(6) Christ, sitting upon the throne of the cross, is publicly proclaimed everlasting King of all people
by the hand of him who condemned him for usurping a kingdom.
#BCV:John 19:23
<h3><verse=John 19:23>John 19:23</verse></h3>




(7) Then the soldiers, when they had crucified Jesus, took his garments, and made four parts, to
every soldier a part; and also [his] coat: now the coat was without seam, woven from the top
throughout.



(7) Christ signifies by the division of his garments amongst the bloody butchers (except for his coat
which had no seam) that it will come to pass, that he will shortly divide his benefits, and enrich his
very enemies throughout the world: but in such a way that the treasure of his Church will remain
whole.
#BCV:John 19:25
<h3><verse=John 19:25>John 19:25</verse></h3>




(8) Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the [wife] of
Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene.



(8) Christ is a perfect example of all righteousness, not only in the keeping of the first, but also of
the second table of the ten commandments.
#BCV:John 19:28
<h3><verse=John 19:28>John 19:28</verse></h3>




(9) After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the scripture might be
fulfilled, saith, I thirst.



(9) Christ when he has taken the vinegar, yields up the Spirit, indeed drinking up in our name that
most bitter and severe cup of his Father's wrath.
#BCV:John 19:29
<h3><verse=John 19:29>John 19:29</verse></h3>



Now there was set a (c) vessel full of vinegar: and they filled a spunge with vinegar, and put [it]
upon hyssop, and put [it] to his mouth.

<page=2702>(c) Galatinus witnesses out of the book called Sanhedrin that the Jews often gave those who were
executed vinegar mixed with frankincense to drink, to make them somewhat delirious: so the Jews
provided charitably for the poor men's conscience who were executed.
#BCV:John 19:31
<h3><verse=John 19:31>John 19:31</verse></h3>




(10) The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, that the bodies should not remain upon the
cross on the sabbath day, (for that sabbath day was an high day,) besought Pilate that their legs might
be broken, and [that] they might be taken away.



(10) The body of Christ which was dead for a season (because it so pleased him) is wounded, but
not the least bone of it is broken: and such is the state of his resurrection body.
#BCV:John 19:34
<h3><verse=John 19:34>John 19:34</verse></h3>




(11) But one of the soldiers with a spear (d) pierced his side, and forthwith came there out blood
and water.



(11) Christ, being dead upon the cross, witnesses by a double sign that he alone is the true
satisfaction, and the true washing for the believers.



(d) This wound was a most manifest witness of the death of Christ: for the water that issued out by
this wound shows us plainly that the weapon pierced the very skin that encompasses the heart, and
this skin is the vessel that contains the water; and once that is wounded, the creature which is so
pierced and stricken has no choice but to die.
#BCV:John 19:38
<h3><verse=John 19:38>John 19:38</verse></h3>




(12) And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews,
besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave [him] leave. He came
therefore, and took the body of Jesus.



(12) Christ is openly buried, and in a famous place, Pilate permitting and allowing it, and buried by
men who showed favour to Christ in doing this, men who had before that day never openly followed
him: so that by his burial, no man can justly doubt either of his death, or resurrection.
#BCV:John 19:41
<h3><verse=John 19:41>John 19:41</verse></h3>



Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre,
wherein was (e) never man yet laid.



(e) That no man might frivolously object to his resurrection, as though someone else that had been
buried there had risen; Theophylact.

<h2>John 20</h2>

#BCV:John 20:1
<h3><verse=John 20:1>John 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=2703>The (1) first [day] of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, unto the
sepulchre, and seeth the stone taken away from the sepulchre.



(1) Mary Magdalene, Peter, and John, are the first witnesses of the resurrection, and these cannot
justly be suspected, for they themselves could hardly be persuaded of it; therefore, they would
obviously not invent such a story on purpose.
#BCV:John 20:11
<h3><verse=John 20:11>John 20:11</verse></h3>



But Mary stood (a) without at the sepulchre weeping: and as she wept, she stooped down, [and
looked] into the sepulchre,



(a) That is, outside of the cave which the sepulchre was cut out of.
#BCV:John 20:12
<h3><verse=John 20:12>John 20:12</verse></h3>




(2) And seeth two angels in (b) white sitting, the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where the
body of Jesus had lain.



(2) Two angels are made witnesses of the Lord's resurrection.



(b) In white clothing.
#BCV:John 20:13
<h3><verse=John 20:13>John 20:13</verse></h3>



And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou? She saith unto them, Because they have taken
away (c) my Lord, and I know not where they have laid him.



(c) Mary spoke as the common people used to speak: for they spoke of a dead carcass as they did of
a living man.
#BCV:John 20:14
<h3><verse=John 20:14>John 20:14</verse></h3>




(3) And when she had thus said, she turned herself back, and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that
it was Jesus.



(3) Jesus witnesses by his presence that he is truly risen.
#BCV:John 20:17
<h3><verse=John 20:17>John 20:17</verse></h3>

#BCV:joh 20:17
<h3><verse=joh 20:17>joh 20:17</verse></h3>



brethren, and say unto them, I ascend unto (e) my Father, and your Father; and [to] my God, and
your God.



(4) Christ, who is risen, is not to be sought in this world according to the flesh, but in heaven by
faith where he has gone before us.



(d) By his brethren he means his disciples, for in the following verse it is said that Mary told his
disciples.



(e) He calls God his Father because he is naturally his Father in the Godhead, and he says "your
Father" because he is our Father by grace through the adoption of the sons of God: that is, by
taking us by his free grace to be his sons; Epiphanius.
#BCV:John 20:19
<h3><verse=John 20:19>John 20:19</verse></h3>




(5) Then the same day at evening, being the first [day] of the week, when the (f) doors were shut
where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith
unto them, Peace [be] unto you.



(5) Christ, in that he presents himself before his disciples suddenly through his divine power, when
the gates were shut, fully assures them both of his resurrection, and also of their apostleship,
inspiring them with the Holy Spirit who is the director of the ministry of the Gospel.



(f) Either the doors opened to him of their own accord, or the very walls themselves were a passage
to him.
#BCV:John 20:23
<h3><verse=John 20:23>John 20:23</verse></h3>




(6) Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; [and] whose soever [sins] ye retain, they
are retained.



(6) The publishing of the forgiveness of sins by faith in Christ, and the setting forth and
proclaiming the wrath of God in retaining the sins of the unbelievers, is the sum of the preaching
of the gospel.
#BCV:John 20:24
<h3><verse=John 20:24>John 20:24</verse></h3>




(7) But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.



(7) Christ draws out of the unbelief of Thomas a certain and sure testimony of his resurrection.
#BCV:John 20:29
<h3><verse=John 20:29>John 20:29</verse></h3>


<page=2705>(8) Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed [are] they
that have not seen, and [yet] have believed.



(8) True faith depends upon the mouth of God, and not upon the eyes of the flesh.
#BCV:John 20:30
<h3><verse=John 20:30>John 20:30</verse></h3>




(9) And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in
this book:



(9) To believe in Christ, the Son of God and our only saviour, is the goal of the doctrine of the
gospel, and especially of the true account of the resurrection.

<h2>John 21</h2>

#BCV:John 21:1
<h3><verse=John 21:1>John 21:1</verse></h3>

<page=2706>After these things (1) Jesus shewed himself again to the disciples at the sea of Tiberias; and on this
wise shewed he [himself].



(1) In that Christ is not only present here but also eats with his disciples, he gives a most full
assurance of his resurrection.
#BCV:John 21:7
<h3><verse=John 21:7>John 21:7</verse></h3>



Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter, It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter
heard that it was the Lord, he girt [his] fisher's (a) coat [unto him], (for he was naked,) and did cast
himself into the sea.



(a) It was a linen garment which prevented him from swimming freely.
#BCV:John 21:15
<h3><verse=John 21:15>John 21:15</verse></h3>




(2) So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, [son] of Jonas, lovest thou me more
than these? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my
lambs.



(2) Peter by this triple confession is restored into his former position from where he fell by his triple
denial: and furthermore it is proclaimed that he is indeed a pastor, who shows his love to Christ in
feeding his sheep.
#BCV:John 21:17
<h3><verse=John 21:17>John 21:17</verse></h3>



He saith unto him the (b) third time, Simon, [son] of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved
because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest
all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.



(b) It was appropriate that he that had denied him three times should confess him three times, so
that Peter might neither doubt the forgiveness of his grievous sin, nor his being restored to the
office of the apostleship.
#BCV:John 21:18
<h3><verse=John 21:18>John 21:18</verse></h3>




(3) Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young, thou (c) girdedst thyself, and walkedst
whither thou wouldest: but when thou shalt be old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another
shall (d) gird thee, and carry [thee] whither thou wouldest (e) not.

<page=2707>(3) The violent death of Peter is foretold.



(c) Those that took long trips, especially in the east and in those places where the people used long
garments, needed to be girded and fastened up.



(d) He meant that kind of girding which is used with captives, when they are bound fast with cords
and chains, as one would say, "Now you gird yourself as you think best, to go where you want to go,
but the time will come when you will not gird yourself with a girdle, but another will bind you with
chains, and carry you where you would not."



(e) Not that Peter suffered anything for the truth of God against his will, for we read that he came
with joy and gladness when he returned from the council where he was whipped, but because this
will comes not from the flesh, but from the gift of the Spirit who is given to us from above,
therefore he shows that there should be a certain striving and conflict or repugnancy, which also is in
us, in all our sufferings as touching the flesh.
#BCV:John 21:19
<h3><verse=John 21:19>John 21:19</verse></h3>



This spake he, signifying by (f) what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he
saith unto him, Follow me.



(f) That is, that Peter would die by a violent death.
#BCV:John 21:20
<h3><verse=John 21:20>John 21:20</verse></h3>




(4) Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disciple whom Jesus loved following; which also leaned on
his breast at supper, and said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee?



(4) We must take heed that while we cast our eyes upon others that we do not neglect that which we
are commanded to do.
#BCV:John 21:24
<h3><verse=John 21:24>John 21:24</verse></h3>




(5) This is the disciple which testifieth of these things, and wrote these things: and we know that his
testimony is true.



(5) The history of Christ is truly and cautiously written: not for the curiosity of men, but for the
salvation of the godly.

<h1>Acts</h1>


<h2>Acts 1</h2>

#BCV:Acts 1:1
<h3><verse=Acts 1:1>Acts 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2709>The (1) former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to (a) do and teach,



(1) Luke switches over from the history of the Gospel, that is from the history of the sayings and
doings of Christ, unto the Acts of the Apostles.



(a) The acts of Jesus are the miracles and deeds which showed his Godhead, and his most perfect
holiness, and examples of his doctrine.
#BCV:Acts 1:3
<h3><verse=Acts 1:3>Acts 1:3</verse></h3>




(2) To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many (b) infallible proofs, being seen
of them forty days, and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God:



(2) Christ did not immediately ascend into heaven after his resurrection in order to thoroughly prove
his resurrection, and with his presence strengthen and encourage his Apostles in the doctrine which
they had heard.



(b) He called those things infallible proofs which are otherwise termed necessary: now in that Christ
spoke, and walked, and ate, and was felt by many, these are sure signs and proofs that he truly rose
again.
#BCV:Acts 1:4
<h3><verse=Acts 1:4>Acts 1:4</verse></h3>



And, being (c) assembled together with [them], commanded them that they should not depart from
Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, [saith he], ye have heard of me.



(c) They were dispersed here and there, but he gathers them together so that all of them might
together be witnesses of his resurrection.
#BCV:Acts 1:5
<h3><verse=Acts 1:5>Acts 1:5</verse></h3>



For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized (d) with the Holy Ghost not many days
hence.



(d) Either by the Father, or by me: so that either the Father or Christ is set here contrasted with John,
as the Holy Spirit is contrasted with water, as things that are comparable to one another.
#BCV:Acts 1:6
<h3><verse=Acts 1:6>Acts 1:6</verse></h3>

#BCV:act 1:6
<h3><verse=act 1:6>act 1:6</verse></h3>




(e) restore again the kingdom to Israel?



(3) We must fight before we triumph, and we must not search curiously after those things which
God has not revealed.



(e) To the old and ancient state.
#BCV:Acts 1:7
<h3><verse=Acts 1:7>Acts 1:7</verse></h3>



And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the (f) seasons, which the Father hath
put in his own power.



(f) That is, the proper occasions that provide opportunities for doing matters, which occasions the
Lord has appointed to bring things to pass in.
#BCV:Acts 1:9
<h3><verse=Acts 1:9>Acts 1:9</verse></h3>




(4) And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received
him out of their sight.



(4) After Christ had promised the full power of the Holy Spirit, with whom he would govern his
church (even though he would be absent in body), he took up his body from us into heavenly
tabernacles to remain there until the latter day of judgment, as the angels witness.
#BCV:Acts 1:11
<h3><verse=Acts 1:11>Acts 1:11</verse></h3>



Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is
taken up (g) from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven.



(g) That is, out of your sight.
#BCV:Acts 1:12
<h3><verse=Acts 1:12>Acts 1:12</verse></h3>



Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath



(h) day's journey.



(h) About two miles.
#BCV:Acts 1:13
<h3><verse=Acts 1:13>Acts 1:13</verse></h3>


<page=2711>(5) And when they were (i) come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and
James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James [the son] of
Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas [the brother] of James.



(5) Ecclesiastical assemblies to hear the word, and to make common prayer, were first instituted and
kept in private houses by the Apostles.



(i) They went into the house which the Church had chosen at that time to be a gathering place for
the whole assembly.
#BCV:Acts 1:14
<h3><verse=Acts 1:14>Acts 1:14</verse></h3>



These all (k) continued with (l) one accord in (m) prayer and supplication, with the (n) women, and
Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his (o) brethren.



(k) The Greek word signifies an invincible constancy and steadfastness.



(l) It is to good purpose that this agreement is mentioned: for those prayers are most acceptable to
God which are made with agreeing minds and wills.



(m) The disciples prayed for the sending of the Holy Spirit, and also to be delivered from present
dangers, of which there were many that they were experiencing.



(n) For it was appropriate to have the wives strengthened and encouraged who would afterwards be
partakers of the dangers with their husbands.



(o) With his relatives.
#BCV:Acts 1:15
<h3><verse=Acts 1:15>Acts 1:15</verse></h3>




(6) And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples, and said, (the number of (p)
names together were about an hundred and twenty,)



(6) Peter is made the spokesman and interpreter of the whole company of the Apostles, either by
secret revelation of the Holy Spirit, or by the express judgment of the congregation.



(p) Because men are commonly referred to and enrolled by their names.
#BCV:Acts 1:16
<h3><verse=Acts 1:16>Acts 1:16</verse></h3>




(7) Men [and] brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the
mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.



(7) Peter anticipates the offence that might be taken at the falling away of Judas the betrayer,
showing that all things which happened to him were foretold by God.
#BCV:Acts 1:18
<h3><verse=Acts 1:18>Acts 1:18</verse></h3>

#BCV:act 1:18
<h3><verse=act 1:18>act 1:18</verse></h3>



asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out.



(q) Luke did not consider Judas' purpose, but that which followed it, and so we used to say that a
man has done himself harm, not that he wanted and intended to, but in respect of that which
followed.



(r) The Greek words signify this much, that Judas fell down flat and was torn apart in the middle,
with a tremendously great noise.
#BCV:Acts 1:20
<h3><verse=Acts 1:20>Acts 1:20</verse></h3>



For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein:
and his (s) bishoprick let another take.



(s) His office and ministry: David wrote these words against Doeg the King's herdsman: and these
words "shepherd", "sheep", and "flock" are used with reference to the Church office and ministry,
so that the Church and the offices are called by these names.
#BCV:Acts 1:21
<h3><verse=Acts 1:21>Acts 1:21</verse></h3>




(8) Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus (t) went
in and out among us,



(8) The Apostles do not deliberate at all, but first they consult and take guidance from God's word:
and again they do nothing that concerns and is incumbent upon the whole body of the
congregation, without making the congregation a part of the decision.



(t) This kind of speech signifies as much in the Hebrew language as the exercising of a public and
difficult office, when they speak of such as are in any public office; (<bcv=Deu 31:2>Deu 31:2</bcv>; <bcv=1Ch 27:1>Ch1 27:1</bcv>).

#BCV:Acts 1:22
<h3><verse=Acts 1:22>Acts 1:22</verse></h3>



Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up (u) from us, must one
be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.



(u) From our company.
#BCV:Acts 1:23
<h3><verse=Acts 1:23>Acts 1:23</verse></h3>




(9) And they (x) appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.



(9) The Apostles must be chosen immediately from God: and therefore after praying, Matthias is
chose by lot, which is as it were God's own voice.

<page=2713>(x) Openly, and by the voices of the entire company.
#BCV:Acts 1:25
<h3><verse=Acts 1:25>Acts 1:25</verse></h3>



That he may take (y) part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression (z) fell,
that he might go to his own place.



(y) That he may be a member and partaker of this ministry.



(z) Departed from, or fallen from: and it is a metaphor taken from the word "way": for callings are
signified by the name of "ways" with the Hebrews.

<h2>Acts 2</h2>

#BCV:Acts 2:1
<h3><verse=Acts 2:1>Acts 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2714>And (1) when the day of Pentecost was (a) fully come, they were (b) all with one accord in one place.



(1) The Apostles being gathered together on a most solemn feast day in one place, that it might
evidently appear to all the world that they all had one office, one Spirit, and one faith, are by a
double sign from heaven authorised, and anointed with all the most excellent gifts of the Holy Spirit,
and especially with an extraordinary and necessary gift of tongues.



(a) Literally, "was fulfilled": that is, was begun, as in (<bcv=Luk 2:21>Luk 2:21</bcv>). For the Hebrews say that a day or a
year is fulfilled or ended when the former days or years are ended, and the other has begun; <bcv=Jer 25:12>(Jer
25:12):</bcv> "And it will come to pass that when seventy years are fulfilled, I will visit, etc." For the Lord
did not bring his people home after the seventieth year was ended, but in the seventieth year: Now
the day of Pentecost was the fiftieth day after the feast of the Passover.



(b) The twelve apostles, who were to be the patriarchs as it were of the Church.
#BCV:Acts 2:4
<h3><verse=Acts 2:4>Acts 2:4</verse></h3>



And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with (c) other tongues, as the (d)
Spirit gave them utterance.



(c) He calls them "other tongues" which were not the same as the apostles commonly used, and
Mark calls them "new tongues".



(d) By this we understand that the apostles were not speaking one language and then another by
chance at random, or as eccentric men used to do, but that they kept in mind the languages of their
hearers: and to be short, that they only spoke as the Holy Spirit directed them to speak.
#BCV:Acts 2:8
<h3><verse=Acts 2:8>Acts 2:8</verse></h3>




(e) And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?



(e) Not that they spoke one language, and different languages were heard, but the apostles spoke
with different languages: for otherwise the miracle would have been in the hearers, whereas it is
really in the speakers; Nazianzen in his oration of Whitsunday.
#BCV:Acts 2:10
<h3><verse=Acts 2:10>Acts 2:10</verse></h3>



Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, (f)
Jews and proselytes,

<page=2715>(f) By Jews he means those that were both Jews by birth and Jews by profession of religion, though
they were born in other places: and these latter ones were proselytes, who were born Gentiles, and
embraced the Jewish religion.
#BCV:Acts 2:12
<h3><verse=Acts 2:12>Acts 2:12</verse></h3>




(2) And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?



(2) God's word pierces some in such a way that it drives them to seek out the truth, and it so chokes
others that it forces them to be witnesses of their own impudency.
#BCV:Acts 2:13
<h3><verse=Acts 2:13>Acts 2:13</verse></h3>



Others (g) mocking said, These men are full of new wine.



(g) The word which he uses here signifies a kind of mocking which is reproachful and insolent: and
by this reproachful mocking we see that no matter how great and excellent the miracle, the
wickedness of man still dares to speak evil against it.
#BCV:Acts 2:14
<h3><verse=Acts 2:14>Acts 2:14</verse></h3>



But Peter, standing up with the eleven, (h) lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea,
and all [ye] that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:



(h) The holiness of Peter is to be marked, in which the grace of the Holy Spirit is to be seen, even
from the very beginning.
#BCV:Acts 2:15
<h3><verse=Acts 2:15>Acts 2:15</verse></h3>



For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is [but] the (i) third hour of the day.



(i) After the sunrise, which may be about seven or eight o'clock to us.
#BCV:Acts 2:16
<h3><verse=Acts 2:16>Acts 2:16</verse></h3>



But this is that which was spoken by the (k) prophet Joel;



(k) There is nothing that can dissolve questions and doubt except testimony taken out of the
Prophets: for men's reasonings may be overturned, but God's voice cannot be overturned.
#BCV:Acts 2:17
<h3><verse=Acts 2:17>Acts 2:17</verse></h3>


<page=2716>(3) And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon (l) all (m)
flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and
your old men shall dream dreams:



(3) Peter setting forth the truth of God against the false accusations of men, shows in himself and
in his companions that the prophecy of Joel concerning the full giving of the Holy Spirit in the
latter days has been fulfilled: and this grace is also offered to the whole Church, to the certain and
undoubted destruction of those who condemn it.



(l) All without exception, both upon the Jews and Gentiles.



(m) That is, men.
#BCV:Acts 2:21
<h3><verse=Acts 2:21>Acts 2:21</verse></h3>




(4) And it shall come to pass, [that] whosoever shall (n) call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.



(4) The most important use of all the gifts of the Holy Spirit is to bring men to salvation by faith.



(n) These words "call on" signify in Holy Scriptures and earnest praying and craving for help from
God's hand.
#BCV:Acts 2:22
<h3><verse=Acts 2:22>Acts 2:22</verse></h3>




(5) Ye men of Israel, hear these words; Jesus of Nazareth, a man (o) approved of God among you
by miracles and wonders and signs, which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves also
know:



(5) Christ, being innocent, was by God's providence crucified by wicked men.



(o) Who is by those works which God did by him so manifestly approved and admitted of, that no
man can deny him.
#BCV:Acts 2:23
<h3><verse=Acts 2:23>Acts 2:23</verse></h3>



Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and (p) foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and
by wicked (q) hands have crucified and (r) slain:



(p) God's everlasting foreknowledge, which can neither be separated from his determinate counsel,
as the Epicureans say, neither yet be the cause of evil: for God in his everlasting and unchangeable
counsel appointed the wicked act of Judas to an excellent end: and God does that well which the
instrument does wickedly.



(q) God's counsel does not excuse the Jews, whose hands were wicked.



(r) The fact is said to be theirs by whose counsel and urging on it is done.
#BCV:Acts 2:24
<h3><verse=Acts 2:24>Acts 2:24</verse></h3>


<page=2717>(6) Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the (s) pains of death: because it was not possible that
he should be holden of it.



(6) As David foretold, Christ did not only rise again, but also was void of all decay in the grave.



(s) The death that was full of sorrow both of body and mind: therefore when death appeared
conqueror and victor over those sorrows, Christ is rightly said to have overcome those sorrows of
death when, as being dead, he overcame death, to live forever with his Father.
#BCV:Acts 2:27
<h3><verse=Acts 2:27>Acts 2:27</verse></h3>



Because thou wilt not (t) leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see
corruption.



(t) You will not allow me to remain in the grave.
#BCV:Acts 2:28
<h3><verse=Acts 2:28>Acts 2:28</verse></h3>



Thou hast (u) made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy
countenance.



(u) You have opened to me the way of true life.
#BCV:Acts 2:30
<h3><verse=Acts 2:30>Acts 2:30</verse></h3>



Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had (x) sworn with an oath to him, that of the
fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;



(x) Had sworn solemnly.
#BCV:Acts 2:32
<h3><verse=Acts 2:32>Acts 2:32</verse></h3>




(7) This Jesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.



(7) Peter witnesses that Jesus Christ is the appointed everlasting King, which he manifestly proves by
the gifts of the Holy Spirit and the testimony of David.
#BCV:Acts 2:33
<h3><verse=Acts 2:33>Acts 2:33</verse></h3>



Therefore being by the (y) right hand of God exalted, and having received of the Father the promise
of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear.

<page=2718>(y) Might and power of God.
#BCV:Acts 2:36
<h3><verse=Acts 2:36>Acts 2:36</verse></h3>



Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath (z) made that same Jesus, whom
ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ.



(z) Christ is said to be "made" because he was advanced to that dignity, and therefore it is not
spoken with reference to his nature, but with reference to his position and high dignity.
#BCV:Acts 2:38
<h3><verse=Acts 2:38>Acts 2:38</verse></h3>




(8) Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus
Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.



(8) Repentance and remission of sins in Christ are two principles of the Gospel and therefore of
our salvation: and they are obtained by the promises apprehended by faith, and are ratified by us in
baptism; and with our salvation comes the power of the Holy Spirit (Ed.).
#BCV:Acts 2:39
<h3><verse=Acts 2:39>Acts 2:39</verse></h3>



For the (a) promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, [even] as many as
the Lord our God shall call.



(a) The word that is used here shows us that it was a free gift.
#BCV:Acts 2:40
<h3><verse=Acts 2:40>Acts 2:40</verse></h3>




(9) And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward
generation.



(9) He is truly joined to the Church who separates himself from the wicked.
#BCV:Acts 2:41
<h3><verse=Acts 2:41>Acts 2:41</verse></h3>




(10) Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added [unto
them] about three thousand souls.



(10) A notable example of the power of the Holy Spirit: but such are not baptized until they make
confession of their faith. (Ed.)
#BCV:Acts 2:42
<h3><verse=Acts 2:42>Acts 2:42</verse></h3>


<page=2719>(11) And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and (b) fellowship, and in (c) breaking of
bread, and in prayers.



(11) The marks of the true Church are the doctrine of the apostles, the duties of charity, the pure
and simple administration of the ordinances, and the true invocation used by all of the faithful.



(b) Sharing of goods, and all other duties of charity, as is shown afterwards.



(c) The Jews used thin loaves, and therefore they broke them rather than cut them: so by breaking of
bread they meant living together, and the banquets which they used to keep. And when they kept
their love feasts, they used to celebrate the Lord's supper, which even in those days began to be
corrupted, and Paul corrects this in (1Co. 11:17-34).
#BCV:Acts 2:43
<h3><verse=Acts 2:43>Acts 2:43</verse></h3>




(12) And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.



(12) As often as the Lord thinks it to be expedient, he bridles the rage of strangers, so that the
Church may be planted and have some refreshing.
#BCV:Acts 2:44
<h3><verse=Acts 2:44>Acts 2:44</verse></h3>




(13) And all that believed were together, and had all things common;



(13) Charity makes all things common with regard to their use, according as necessity requires.
#BCV:Acts 2:46
<h3><verse=Acts 2:46>Acts 2:46</verse></h3>




(14) And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to
house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart,



(14) The faithful came together at the beginning with tremendous results, not only for the hearing
of the word, but also to eat.

<h2>Acts 3</h2>

#BCV:Acts 3:1
<h3><verse=Acts 3:1>Acts 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2720>Now (1) Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, [being] the ninth
[hour].



(1) Christ, in healing a man that was born lame and well known to all men, both in a famous place
and at a popular time, by the hands of his apostles partly strengthens and encourages those who
believed, and partly also calls others to believe.
#BCV:Acts 3:5
<h3><verse=Acts 3:5>Acts 3:5</verse></h3>



And he (a) gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them.



(a) Both with heart and eyes.
#BCV:Acts 3:11
<h3><verse=Acts 3:11>Acts 3:11</verse></h3>



And as the lame man which was healed (b) held Peter and John, all the people ran together unto
them in the porch that is called Solomon's, greatly wondering.



(b) Either because he loved them who had healed him, or because he feared that if he let them go
out of his sight that he would become lame again.
#BCV:Acts 3:12
<h3><verse=Acts 3:12>Acts 3:12</verse></h3>




(2) And when Peter saw [it], he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this?
or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to
walk?



(2) Miracles are appointed to convince the unbelievers, and therefore they wickedly abuse the
miracles who, standing amazed, either at the miracles themselves or at the instruments and means
which is pleases God to use, take an occasion to establish idolatry and superstition by that which
God has provided for the knowledge of his true worship, that is, Christianity.
#BCV:Acts 3:15
<h3><verse=Acts 3:15>Acts 3:15</verse></h3>



And killed the Prince (c) of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses.



(c) Who has life in himself, and gives life to others.
#BCV:Acts 3:16
<h3><verse=Acts 3:16>Acts 3:16</verse></h3>

<page=2721>And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: (d) yea,
the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all.



(d) Because he believed on him who was raised from the dead, whose name he heard about from us.
#BCV:Acts 3:17
<h3><verse=Acts 3:17>Acts 3:17</verse></h3>




(3) And now, brethren, I wot that through ignorance ye did [it], as [did] also your rulers.



(3) It is best of all to receive Christ as soon as he is offered to us: but those who have neglected so
great a benefit through man's weakness, yet have repentance as a means. As for the shame of the
cross, we have to set against that the decree and purpose of God for Christ, foretold by the
Prophets, how that first of all he would be crucified here upon the earth, and then he would appear
from heaven the judge and restorer of all things, that all believers might be saved, and all unbelievers
utterly perish.
#BCV:Acts 3:18
<h3><verse=Acts 3:18>Acts 3:18</verse></h3>



But those things, which God before had shewed (e) by the mouth of all his prophets, that Christ
should suffer, he hath so fulfilled.



(e) Though there were many Prophets, yet he speaks only of one mouth, to show us the consent and
agreement of the Prophets.
#BCV:Acts 3:21
<h3><verse=Acts 3:21>Acts 3:21</verse></h3>




(f) Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath
spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.



(f) Or, be taken up into heaven.
#BCV:Acts 3:22
<h3><verse=Acts 3:22>Acts 3:22</verse></h3>



For Moses truly said unto the fathers, (g) A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of
your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you.



(g) This promise referred to an excellent and singular Prophet.
#BCV:Acts 3:24
<h3><verse=Acts 3:24>Acts 3:24</verse></h3>



Yea, and all the prophets (h) from Samuel and those that follow after, as many as have spoken, have
likewise foretold of these days.



(h) At which time the kingdom of Israel was established.
#BCV:Acts 3:25
<h3><verse=Acts 3:25>Acts 3:25</verse></h3>


<page=2722>(4) Ye are the (i) children of the prophets, and of the covenant which God made with our fathers,
saying unto Abraham, And in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed.



(4) The Jews that believed are the first begotten in the kingdom of God.



(i) For whom the Prophets were especially appointed.
#BCV:Acts 3:26
<h3><verse=Acts 3:26>Acts 3:26</verse></h3>



Unto you first God, having (k) raised up his Son Jesus, sent him to bless you, in turning away every
one of you from his iniquities.



(k) Given to the world, or raised from the dead, and advanced to his kingdom.

<h2>Acts 4</h2>

#BCV:Acts 4:1
<h3><verse=Acts 4:1>Acts 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=2723>And (1) as they spake unto the people, the priests, and the (a) captain of the temple, and the
Sadducees, came upon them,



(1) There are none more commonly diligent or bold enemies of the Church than those who profess
themselves to be the chief builders of it, but the more they rage, the more steadfastly the faithful
servants of God continue.



(a) The Jews had certain troops for the guard and safety of the temple and holy things (see <bcv=Mat 26:47>(Mat 26:47).</bcv> These garrisons had a captain, such as Eleazarus Ananias, the high Priest's son in the time of
the war that was in Judea, being a very impudent and proud young man; Josephus, lib. 2, of the
taking of Judea.

#BCV:Acts 4:4
<h3><verse=Acts 4:4>Acts 4:4</verse></h3>



Howbeit many of them which heard the word believed; and the (b) number of the men was about
five thousand.



(b) While they thought to diminish the number, they actually increased it.
#BCV:Acts 4:5
<h3><verse=Acts 4:5>Acts 4:5</verse></h3>



And it came to pass on the morrow, that their (c) rulers, and elders, and scribes,



(c) These were those who were members of the Sanhedrin, who were all from the tribe of Judah,
until Herod came to power.
#BCV:Acts 4:6
<h3><verse=Acts 4:6>Acts 4:6</verse></h3>



And Annas the high priest, and Caiaphas, and John, and Alexander, and as many as were of the (d)
kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Jerusalem.



(d) From whom the high Priests were usually chosen and made. At this time the former high Priest
was stepping down, and a new high Priest was being appointed.
#BCV:Acts 4:7
<h3><verse=Acts 4:7>Acts 4:7</verse></h3>




(2) And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what (e) name, have
ye done this?

<page=2724>(2) Against those who brag of a succession of persons, without a succession of doctrine, and by
that means beat down the true ministers of the word, as much as they are able.



(e) By what authority.
#BCV:Acts 4:9
<h3><verse=Acts 4:9>Acts 4:9</verse></h3>




(3) If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is
made whole;



(3) The wolves who come after true pastors plead their own cause and not God's, neither the cause
of the Church.
#BCV:Acts 4:10
<h3><verse=Acts 4:10>Acts 4:10</verse></h3>




(4) Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of
Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, [even] by him doth this man stand
here before you whole.



(4) He is indeed a true shepherd that teaches his sheep to rest upon Christ alone as upon one that is
not dead, but has conquered death, and has all rule in his own hands.
#BCV:Acts 4:12
<h3><verse=Acts 4:12>Acts 4:12</verse></h3>



Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other (f) name (g) under heaven (h) given
among men, whereby we must be saved.



(f) There is no other man, or no other power and authority at all; and this kind of speech was
common among the Jews, and arose from this, that when we are in danger we call upon those at
whose hands we look for help.



(g) Anywhere: and this shows us the largeness of Christ's kingdom.



(h) Of God.
#BCV:Acts 4:13
<h3><verse=Acts 4:13>Acts 4:13</verse></h3>




(5) Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and



(i) ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.



(5) The good liberty and boldness of the servants of God does yet this much good, that those who
lay hidden under a mask of zeal at length betray themselves to indeed be wicked men.

<page=2725>(i) The word used here is "idiot", which signifies a private man when it is used in reference to a
magistrate: but with reference to sciences and studies, it signifies one that is unlearned, and with
regard to honour and estimation, it implies one of base degree, and of no estimation.
#BCV:Acts 4:15
<h3><verse=Acts 4:15>Acts 4:15</verse></h3>



But when they had commanded them to go aside out of the council, they (k) conferred among
themselves,



(k) Laid their heads together.
#BCV:Acts 4:16
<h3><verse=Acts 4:16>Acts 4:16</verse></h3>




(6) Saying, What shall we do to these men? for that indeed a notable miracle hath been done by
them [is] manifest to all them that dwell in Jerusalem; and we cannot deny [it].



(6) He that flatters himself in ignorance, at length comes to do open wickedness, and that against his
own conscience.
#BCV:Acts 4:19
<h3><verse=Acts 4:19>Acts 4:19</verse></h3>




(7) But Peter and John answered and said unto them, Whether it be right in the sight of God to
hearken unto you more than unto God, judge ye.



(7) We must obey men to whom we are subject, but especially and before all things we must obey
God.
#BCV:Acts 4:21
<h3><verse=Acts 4:21>Acts 4:21</verse></h3>




(8) So when they had further threatened them, they let them go, finding nothing how they might
punish them, because of the people: for all [men] glorified God for that which was done.



(8) The wicked are so far off from doing what they wish, that God uses them contrary to their
desires to set forth his glory, which he gives them permission to do.
#BCV:Acts 4:23
<h3><verse=Acts 4:23>Acts 4:23</verse></h3>




(9) And being let go, they went to their own company, and reported all that the chief priests and
elders had said unto them.



(9) The apostles share their troubles with the congregation.
#BCV:Acts 4:24
<h3><verse=Acts 4:24>Acts 4:24</verse></h3>


<page=2726>(10) And when they heard that, they lifted up their voice to God with one accord, and said, Lord,
thou [art] God, which hast made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all that in them is:

(10) We should neither be afraid of the threats of our enemies, neither yet foolishly condemn their
rage and madness against us: but we have to set against their force and malice an earnest thinking
upon the power and good will of God (both which we manifestly behold in Christ) and so flee to
the aid and assistance of our Father.

#BCV:Acts 4:27
<h3><verse=Acts 4:27>Acts 4:27</verse></h3>

For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate,
with the Gentiles, and the (l) people of Israel, were gathered together,

(l) Although the people of Israel were but one people, yet the plural number is used here, not so
much for the twelve tribes, every one of which counted as a people, but because of the great
multitude of them, as though many nations had assembled themselves together, as in <bcv=Jdg 5:14>(Jdg 5:14).</bcv>

#BCV:Acts 4:28
<h3><verse=Acts 4:28>Acts 4:28</verse></h3>



For to (m) do whatsoever (n) thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.



(m) The wicked execute God's counsel, even though they think nothing of it, but they are not
therefore without fault.



(n) You had determined by your absolute authority and power.
#BCV:Acts 4:31
<h3><verse=Acts 4:31>Acts 4:31</verse></h3>




(11) And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they
were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.



(11) God witnesses to his Church by a visible sign that it is he that will establish it, by shaking the
powers both of heaven and of earth.
#BCV:Acts 4:32
<h3><verse=Acts 4:32>Acts 4:32</verse></h3>




(12) And the multitude of them that believed were of (o) one heart and of one soul: neither said any
[of them] that ought of the things which he possessed was his own; but they had all things common.



(12) An example of the true Church, in which there is equal consent both in doctrine and in charity
toward one another: and the pastors deliver true doctrine both sincerely and constantly.



(o) They agreed in counsel, will, and all plans.
#BCV:Acts 4:34
<h3><verse=Acts 4:34>Acts 4:34</verse></h3>

#BCV:act 4:34
<h3><verse=act 4:34>act 4:34</verse></h3>



houses sold them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold,



(13) True charity helps the need of the poor with its own loss, but in such a way that all things are
done well and orderly.

<h2>Acts 5</h2>

#BCV:Acts 5:1
<h3><verse=Acts 5:1>Acts 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=2728>But (1) a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession,



(1) Luke shows by contrary examples how great a sin hypocrisy is, especially in those who under a
false pretence and cloak of zeal seem to shine and be of great importance in the Church.
#BCV:Acts 5:2
<h3><verse=Acts 5:2>Acts 5:2</verse></h3>



And (a) kept back [part] of the price, his wife also being privy [to it], and brought a certain part, and
laid [it] at the apostles' feet.



(a) Craftily took away.
#BCV:Acts 5:3
<h3><verse=Acts 5:3>Acts 5:3</verse></h3>



But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan (b) filled thine heart (c) to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to
keep back [part] of the price of the land?



(b) Fully possessed.



(c) For when they had appointed that farm or possession for the Church, they were foolish to keep
away a part of the price, as though they were dealing with men, and not with God, and therefore he
says afterwards that they tempted God.
#BCV:Acts 5:4
<h3><verse=Acts 5:4>Acts 5:4</verse></h3>



Whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why
hast thou (d) conceived this thing in thine heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God.



(d) By this is meant an advised and purposeful deceit, and the fault of the man in listening to the
devil's suggestions.
#BCV:Acts 5:9
<h3><verse=Acts 5:9>Acts 5:9</verse></h3>



Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together to (e) tempt the Spirit of the Lord?
behold, the feet of them which have buried thy husband [are] at the (f) door, and shall carry thee out.



(e) Look how often men do things with an evil conscience; and so they pronounce sentence against
themselves, and as much as in them lies, they provoke God to anger, as they do this on purpose, in
order to test whether he is just and almighty or not.



(f) Are at hand.
#BCV:Acts 5:11
<h3><verse=Acts 5:11>Acts 5:11</verse></h3>


<page=2729>(2) And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things.



(2) The Lord by his marvellous power bridles some so that they may not hurt the Church: others he
keeps in awe and fear of him: and others he draws unto himself.
#BCV:Acts 5:13
<h3><verse=Acts 5:13>Acts 5:13</verse></h3>



And of the rest durst no man join himself to them: but the people (g) magnified them.



(g) Highly praised them.
#BCV:Acts 5:17
<h3><verse=Acts 5:17>Acts 5:17</verse></h3>




(3) Then the high priest rose up, and all they that were with him, (which is the (h) sect of the
Sadducees,) and were filled with indignation,



(3) The more that the Church increases, the more the rage os Satan increases, and therefore they
proceed from threats to imprisonment.



(h) The word which is used here is "heresy", which signifies a choice, and so is taken for a right form
of learning, or faction, or study and course of life, which the Latins call a sect: at first this word was
used indifferently, but at length it came to be used only in reference to evil, whereupon came the
name of "heretic" which is taken for one that goes astray from sound and wholesome doctrine in
such a way that he thinks lightly of the judgment of God and his Church, and continues in his
opinion, and breaks the peace of the Church.
#BCV:Acts 5:19
<h3><verse=Acts 5:19>Acts 5:19</verse></h3>




(4) But the angel of the Lord by night opened the prison doors, and brought them forth, and said,



(4) Angels are made servants of the servants of God.
#BCV:Acts 5:20
<h3><verse=Acts 5:20>Acts 5:20</verse></h3>




(5) Go, stand and speak in the temple to the people all the (i) words of this life.



(5) God therefore delivers his own, so that they may more vigorously provoke his enemies.



(i) Words by which the way unto life is shown.
#BCV:Acts 5:21
<h3><verse=Acts 5:21>Acts 5:21</verse></h3>


<page=2730>(6) And when they heard [that], they entered into the temple early in the morning, and taught. But
the high priest came, and they that were with him, and called the council together, and all the senate
of the children of Israel, and sent to the prison to have them brought.



(6) God mocks his enemies attempts from above.
#BCV:Acts 5:25
<h3><verse=Acts 5:25>Acts 5:25</verse></h3>




(7) Then came one and told them, saying, Behold, the men whom ye put in prison are standing in
the temple, and teaching the people.



(7) The more openly that Christ's power shows itself, the more the madness of his enemies who
conspire against him increases.
#BCV:Acts 5:26
<h3><verse=Acts 5:26>Acts 5:26</verse></h3>




(8) Then went the captain with the officers, and brought them without violence: for they feared the
people, lest they should have been stoned.



(8) Tyrants who do not fear God are forced to fear his servants.
#BCV:Acts 5:28
<h3><verse=Acts 5:28>Acts 5:28</verse></h3>




(9) Saying, Did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and, behold, ye
have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend (k) to bring this man's blood upon us.



(9) It is the characteristic of tyrants to set down their own commandments as right and proper, be
they ever so wicked.



(k) Make us guilty of murdering that man whom yet they will not condescend to name.
#BCV:Acts 5:29
<h3><verse=Acts 5:29>Acts 5:29</verse></h3>




(10) Then Peter and the [other] apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men.



(10) We should obey man only in so far that in obeying him we also obey God.
#BCV:Acts 5:30
<h3><verse=Acts 5:30>Acts 5:30</verse></h3>




(11) The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree.



(11) Christ is appointed and indeed declared Prince and preserver of his Church, in spite of his
enemies.
#BCV:Acts 5:32
<h3><verse=Acts 5:32>Acts 5:32</verse></h3>

#BCV:act 5:32
<h3><verse=act 5:32>act 5:32</verse></h3>



given to them that obey him.



(12) It is not sufficient for us that there is a proper goal, but we must also according to our calling go
forward until we come to it.
#BCV:Acts 5:33
<h3><verse=Acts 5:33>Acts 5:33</verse></h3>



When they heard [that], they (l) were cut [to the heart], and took counsel to slay them.



(l) This shows that they were in a most vehement rage, and tremendously disquieted in mind, for it is
a borrowed kind of speech taken from those who are harshly cut in pieces with a saw.
#BCV:Acts 5:34
<h3><verse=Acts 5:34>Acts 5:34</verse></h3>




(13) Then stood there up one in the council, a Pharisee, named Gamaliel, a doctor of the law, had in
reputation among all the people, and commanded to put the apostles forth a little space;



(13) Christ finds defenders of his cause, even in the very company of his enemies, as often as he
thinks necessary.
#BCV:Acts 5:36
<h3><verse=Acts 5:36>Acts 5:36</verse></h3>




(14) For before these days rose up Theudas, (m) boasting himself to be somebody; to whom a
number of men, about four hundred, joined themselves: who was slain; and all, as many as obeyed
him, were scattered, and brought to nought.



(14) In matters of religion we must take good heed that we attempt nothing under a pretence of zeal
to which we have not been called.



(m) To be of same fame.
#BCV:Acts 5:38
<h3><verse=Acts 5:38>Acts 5:38</verse></h3>



And now I say unto you, (n) Refrain from these men, and let them alone: for if this counsel or this
work be of (o) men, it will come to nought:



(n) He dissuades his fellows from murdering the apostles, neither does he think it good to refer the
matter to the Roman magistrate, for the Jews could endure nothing worse than to have the tyranny
of the Romans confirmed.



(o) If it is counterfeit and devised.
#BCV:Acts 5:41
<h3><verse=Acts 5:41>Acts 5:41</verse></h3>

#BCV:act 5:41
<h3><verse=act 5:41>act 5:41</verse></h3>



suffer shame for his name.



(15) The apostles, accustomed to suffer and bear words, are eventually accustomed to bearing stripes,
and yet in such a way that by means of them they become stronger.
#BCV:Acts 5:42
<h3><verse=Acts 5:42>Acts 5:42</verse></h3>



And daily in the (p) temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.



(p) Both publicly and privately.

<h2>Acts 6</h2>

#BCV:Acts 6:1
<h3><verse=Acts 6:1>Acts 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=2733>And (1) in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of
the (a) Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the (b) daily
ministration.



(1) When Satan has assailed the Church on the outside, and with little result and in vain, he assails it
on the inside, with civil dissension and strife between themselves: but the apostles take occasion by
this to set order in the Church.



(a) From among their own members, who became religious Jews from among the Greeks.



(b) In the bestowing of alms according to their need.
#BCV:Acts 6:2
<h3><verse=Acts 6:2>Acts 6:2</verse></h3>




(2) Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples [unto them], and said, It is not (c) reason
that we should leave the word of God, and serve (d) tables.



(2) The office of preaching the word, and dispensing the goods of the Church, are different from
one another, and not rashly to be joined together, as the apostles institute here. And the deacons
must seek the consent of the Church more than the apostles.



(c) It is such a matter that we may in no way accept it.



(d) Banquets: though by the name of tables other offices are also meant, which are added to it, such
as those which pertain to the care of the poor.
#BCV:Acts 6:3
<h3><verse=Acts 6:3>Acts 6:3</verse></h3>




(3) Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost
and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.



(3) In choosing deacons (and much more in choosing ministers) there must be an examination of
both their learning and their manners of life.
#BCV:Acts 6:6
<h3><verse=Acts 6:6>Acts 6:6</verse></h3>




(4) Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they (e) laid [their] hands on them.



(4) The ancient Church, with the laying on of hands, as it were consecrated to the Lord those who
were lawfully elected.

<page=2734>(e) This ceremony of the laying on of hands came from the Jews, who used this ceremony both in
public affairs, and in the offering of sacrifices, and also in private prayers and blessings, as appears in



(<bcv=Gen 48:13-22>Gen 48:13-22</bcv>); and the Church also observed this ceremony, as is evident from 
(<bcv=1Ti 5:22>Ti1 5:22</bcv>; <bcv=Acts 8:17>Act 8:17</bcv>).
However, there is no mention made here either of cream, or shaving, or razing, or crossing, etc.

#BCV:Acts 6:7
<h3><verse=Acts 6:7>Acts 6:7</verse></h3>




(5) And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly;
and a great company of the priests were obedient to the (f) faith.



(5) A happy result of temptation.



(f) This is the figure of speech metonymy, meaning by "faith" the doctrine of the Gospel which
brings about faith.
#BCV:Acts 6:8
<h3><verse=Acts 6:8>Acts 6:8</verse></h3>




(6) And Stephen, full of faith and (g) power, did great wonders and miracles among the people.



(6) God trains his Church first with evil words and slanders, then with imprisonments, afterwards
with scourgings, and by these means prepares it in such a way that at length he causes it to meet in
combat with Satan and the world, even to bloodshed and death.



(g) Excellent and singular gifts.
#BCV:Acts 6:9
<h3><verse=Acts 6:9>Acts 6:9</verse></h3>




(7) Then there arose certain of the (h) synagogue, which is called [the synagogue] of the Libertines,
and Cyrenians, and Alexandrians, and of them of Cilicia and of Asia, disputing with Stephen.



(7) Schools and universities in ancient times were addicted to false pastors, and were the instruments
of Satan to spread abroad and defend false doctrines.



(h) Of the people and the school, as it were.
#BCV:Acts 6:10
<h3><verse=Acts 6:10>Acts 6:10</verse></h3>




(8) And they were not able to resist the wisdom and the spirit by which he spake.



(8) False teachers, because they will not be overcome, flee from disputations and resort to manifest
and open slandering and false accusations.
#BCV:Acts 6:12
<h3><verse=Acts 6:12>Acts 6:12</verse></h3>


<page=2735>(9) And they stirred up the people, and the elders, and the scribes, and came upon [him], and caught
him, and brought [him] to the council,



(9) The first bloody persecution of the Church of Christ, began and sprang from a council of
priests, by the suggestion of the university teachers.
#BCV:Acts 6:13
<h3><verse=Acts 6:13>Acts 6:13</verse></h3>




(10) And set up false witnesses, which said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words
against this holy place, and the law:



(10) An example of frivolous objectors or false accusers, who gather false conclusions from things
that are well uttered and spoken.
#BCV:Acts 6:15
<h3><verse=Acts 6:15>Acts 6:15</verse></h3>



And all that sat in the council, looking stedfastly on him, (i) saw his face as it had been the face of an
angel.



(i) By this it appears that Steven had an excellent and wholesome countenance, having a quiet and
settled mind, a good conscience, and certain conviction that his cause was just: for seeing as he was
to speak before the people, God beautified his countenance, so that by the very beholding of him
the Jews' minds might be penetrated and amazed.

<h2>Acts 7</h2>

#BCV:Acts 7:1
<h3><verse=Acts 7:1>Acts 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=2736>Then (1) said the high priest, Are these things so?



(1) Steven is allowed to plead his cause, but for this reason and purpose, that under a disguise and
pretence of the Law he might be condemned.
#BCV:Acts 7:2
<h3><verse=Acts 7:2>Acts 7:2</verse></h3>




(2) And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of (a) glory appeared unto our father
Abraham, when he was in (b) Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran,



(2) Steven witnesses to the Jews that he acknowledges the true fathers, and the only true God, and
more than this shows this that these are more ancient than the temple and all the temple service
appointed by the Law, and therefore they ought to lay another foundation of true religion, that is to
say, the free covenant that God made with the fathers.



(a) The mighty God full of glory and majesty.



(b) When he says afterwards in (<bcv=Acts 7:4>Act 7:4</bcv>) that Abraham came out of Chaldea, it is evident that
Mesopotamia contained Chaldea which was near to it, and bordered upon it; and so writes Plinius,
book 6, chap. 27.
#BCV:Acts 7:5
<h3><verse=Acts 7:5>Acts 7:5</verse></h3>



And he gave him none inheritance in it, no, not [so much as] to (c) set his foot on: yet he (d)
promised that he would give it to him for a possession, and to his seed after him, when [as yet] he
had no child.



(c) Not enough ground to even set his foot upon.



(d) The promise of the possession was certain, and belonged to Abraham, though it was his
posterity that enjoyed it a great while after his death: and this is the figure of speech synecdoche.
#BCV:Acts 7:6
<h3><verse=Acts 7:6>Acts 7:6</verse></h3>



And God spake on this wise, That his seed should sojourn in a strange land; and that they should
bring them into bondage, and entreat [them] evil (e) four hundred years.



(e) Four hundred years are counted from the beginning of Abraham's progeny, which was at the
birth of Isaac: and four hundred and thirty years which are spoken of by Paul in (<bcv=Gal 3:17>Gal 3:17</bcv>), from the
time that Abraham and his father departed together out of Ur of the Chaldeans.
#BCV:Acts 7:9
<h3><verse=Acts 7:9>Acts 7:9</verse></h3>

#BCV:act 7:9
<h3><verse=act 7:9>act 7:9</verse></h3>




(3) Steven diligently recounts the horrible misdeeds of some of the fathers, to teach the Jews that
they ought not rashly to rest in the authority or examples of the fathers.



(f) By these words are meant the peculiar favour that God shows men: for he seems to be away from
those whom he does not help: and on the other hand, he is with those whom he delivers out of
troubles, no matter how great the troubles may be.
#BCV:Acts 7:10
<h3><verse=Acts 7:10>Acts 7:10</verse></h3>



And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him (g) favour and wisdom in the sight of
Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house.



(g) Gave him favour in Pharaoh's sight because of his wisdom.
#BCV:Acts 7:16
<h3><verse=Acts 7:16>Acts 7:16</verse></h3>



And were (h) carried over into Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of
money of the sons of Emmor [the father] of Sychem.



(h) The patriarchs who were the sons of Jacob, though only Joseph is mentioned; (<bcv=Jos 24:32>Jos 24:32</bcv>).
#BCV:Acts 7:19
<h3><verse=Acts 7:19>Acts 7:19</verse></h3>



The same (i) dealt subtilly with our kindred, and evil entreated our fathers, so that they cast out their
young children, to the end they might not live.



(i) He devised a subtle plan against our stock, in that he commanded all the males to be cast out.
#BCV:Acts 7:20
<h3><verse=Acts 7:20>Acts 7:20</verse></h3>



In which time Moses was born, and was (k) exceeding fair, and nourished up in his father's house
three months:



(k) This child was born through God's merciful goodness and favour, to be of a lovely and fair
countenance.
#BCV:Acts 7:30
<h3><verse=Acts 7:30>Acts 7:30</verse></h3>



And when forty years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina an (l)
angel of the Lord in a flame of fire in a bush.

<page=2738>(l) Now, he calls the Son of God an angel, for he is the angel of great counsel, and therefore
immediately after he describes him as saying to Moses, "I am the God of thy fathers, etc."
#BCV:Acts 7:35
<h3><verse=Acts 7:35>Acts 7:35</verse></h3>



This Moses whom they refused, saying, Who made thee a ruler and a judge? the same did God send
[to be] a ruler and a deliverer by the (m) hand of the angel which appeared to him in the bush.



(m) By the power.
#BCV:Acts 7:37
<h3><verse=Acts 7:37>Acts 7:37</verse></h3>




(4) This is that Moses, which said unto the children of Israel, A prophet shall the Lord your God
raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear.



(4) He acknowledges Moses as the Lawgiver, but in such a way that he proves by his own witness
that the Law had respect to a more perfect thing, that is to say, to the prophetical office which
accompanied Christ, the head of all Prophets.
#BCV:Acts 7:41
<h3><verse=Acts 7:41>Acts 7:41</verse></h3>



And they made a (n) calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the idol, and rejoiced in the works
of their own hands.



(n) This was the superstition of the Egyptian's idolatry: for they worshipped Apis, a strange and
marvellous looking calf, and made beautiful images of cows.
#BCV:Acts 7:42
<h3><verse=Acts 7:42>Acts 7:42</verse></h3>



Then God turned, and (o) gave them up to worship the (p) host of heaven; as it is written in the
book of the prophets, O ye house of Israel, have ye offered to me slain beasts and sacrifices [by the
space of] forty years in the wilderness?



(o) Being destitute and void of his Spirit, he gave them up to Satan, and wicked lusts, to worship
stars.



(p) By "the host of heaven" here he does not mean the angels, but the moon, and sun, and other
stars.
#BCV:Acts 7:43
<h3><verse=Acts 7:43>Acts 7:43</verse></h3>



Yea, ye (q) took up the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye
made to worship them: and I will carry you away beyond Babylon.

<page=2739>(q) You took it upon your shoulders and carried it.
#BCV:Acts 7:44
<h3><verse=Acts 7:44>Acts 7:44</verse></h3>




(5) Our fathers had the tabernacle of (r) witness in the wilderness, as he had appointed, speaking
unto Moses, that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen.



(5) Moses indeed erected a tabernacle, but that was to call them back to the one whom he had seen
on the mountain.



(r) That is, of the covenant.
#BCV:Acts 7:45
<h3><verse=Acts 7:45>Acts 7:45</verse></h3>



Which also our fathers that came after (s) brought in with Jesus into the (t) possession of the
Gentiles, whom God drave out (u) before the face of our fathers, unto the days of David;



(s) Delivered from hand to hand.



(t) This is said using the figure of speech metonymy, and refers to the countries which the Gentiles
possessed.



(u) God drove them out that they should yield up the possession of those countries to our fathers
when they entered into the land.
#BCV:Acts 7:47
<h3><verse=Acts 7:47>Acts 7:47</verse></h3>




(6) But Solomon built him an house.



(6) Solomon built a temple according to God's commandment, but not under any condition that the
majesty of God should be enclosed within it.
#BCV:Acts 7:51
<h3><verse=Acts 7:51>Acts 7:51</verse></h3>




(7) Ye stiffnecked and (x) uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as
your fathers [did], so [do] ye.



(7) Steven, moved with the zeal of God, at length judges his own judges.



(x) They are of uncircumcised hearts who still lie drowned in the sins of nature, and are stuck fast in
them: for otherwise all the Jews were circumcised with regard to the flesh, and therefore there are
two kinds of circumcision; (<bcv=Rom 2:28-29>Rom 2:28-29</bcv>).
#BCV:Acts 7:53
<h3><verse=Acts 7:53>Acts 7:53</verse></h3>

<page=2740>Who have received the law by the (y) disposition of angels, and have not kept [it].



(y) By the ministry of angels.
#BCV:Acts 7:54
<h3><verse=Acts 7:54>Acts 7:54</verse></h3>




(8) When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with [their]
teeth.



(8) The more Satan is pressed, the more he breaks out into an open rage.
#BCV:Acts 7:55
<h3><verse=Acts 7:55>Acts 7:55</verse></h3>




(9) But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God,
and Jesus (z) standing on the right hand of God,



(9) The nearer that martyrs approach to death, the nearer that they rise up, even into heaven, as they
behold Christ.



(z) Ready to affirm him in the confession of the truth, and to receive him unto himself.
#BCV:Acts 7:57
<h3><verse=Acts 7:57>Acts 7:57</verse></h3>




(10) Then they cried out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and (a) ran upon him with one
accord,



(10) The zeal of hypocrites and superstitious people eventually breaks out into a most open madness.



(a) This was done in a rage and fury, for at that time the Jews could put no man to death by law, as
they confessed before Pilate saying that it was no lawful for them to put any man to death, and
therefore it is reported by Josephus that Ananus, a Sadducee, slew James the brother of the Lord,
and for so doing was accused before Albinus, the president of the country; lib. 20.
#BCV:Acts 7:58
<h3><verse=Acts 7:58>Acts 7:58</verse></h3>



And cast [him] out of the city, and stoned [him]: and the (b) witnesses laid down their clothes at a
young man's feet, whose name was Saul.



(b) It was appointed by the Law that the witnesses should cast the first stones; (<bcv=Deu 17:7>Deu 17:7</bcv>).
#BCV:Acts 7:60
<h3><verse=Acts 7:60>Acts 7:60</verse></h3>




(11) And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, (c) lay not this sin to their charge. And
when he had said this, he (d) fell asleep.

<page=2741>(11) Faith and charity never forsake the true servants of God, even to the last breath.



(c) The word which he uses here refers to a type of imputing or laying to one's charge that remains
firm and steady forever, never to be remitted.



(d) See (<bcv=I Th 4:13>Th1 4:13</bcv>).

<h2>Acts 8</h2>

#BCV:Acts 8:1
<h3><verse=Acts 8:1>Acts 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=2742>And (1) Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against
the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of
Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles.



(1) Christ uses the rage of his enemies in the spreading forth and enlarging of his kingdom.
#BCV:Acts 8:2
<h3><verse=Acts 8:2>Acts 8:2</verse></h3>




(2) And devout men (a) carried Stephen [to his burial], and made great lamentation over him.



(2) The godly mourn for Steven after his death, and bury him, showing in this an example of
singular faith and charity: but no man prays to him.



(a) Amongst all the duties of charity which the godly perform, there is no mention made of
enshrining relics.
#BCV:Acts 8:3
<h3><verse=Acts 8:3>Acts 8:3</verse></h3>




(3) As for Saul, he made havock of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and
women committed [them] to prison.



(3) The dispersion or scattering abroad of the faithful is the gathering together of churches.
#BCV:Acts 8:5
<h3><verse=Acts 8:5>Acts 8:5</verse></h3>




(4) Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them.



(4) Philip, who was before a deacon in Jerusalem, is made an evangelist by God in an extraordinary
way.
#BCV:Acts 8:9
<h3><verse=Acts 8:9>Acts 8:9</verse></h3>




(5) But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used (b) sorcery,
and (c) bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one:



(5) Christ overcomes Satan as often as he desires, and carries him about as it were in triumph, in the
sight of those whom Satan deceived and bewitched.



(b) The word which is used in this place was at first used of good things, and is borrowed from the
language of the Persians, who call their wise men by that name; but afterwards it was used of evil
things.

<page=2743>(c) He had so allured the Samaritans with his witchcraft that as blind and mad idiots they were
wholly addicted to him.
#BCV:Acts 8:13
<h3><verse=Acts 8:13>Acts 8:13</verse></h3>




(6) Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and
wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done.



(6) The wicked and the highly reprobate are often forced to taste the good gift of God, but they
immediately spit it out again.
#BCV:Acts 8:14
<h3><verse=Acts 8:14>Acts 8:14</verse></h3>




(7) Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of
God, they sent unto them Peter and John:



(7) Peter, not chief but as an ambassador sent from the whole company of the apostles, and John
his companion, according to the authority which was committed unto them, strengthen, encourage,
and build up the churches of Samaria, whose foundation had been laid before by Philip.
#BCV:Acts 8:15
<h3><verse=Acts 8:15>Acts 8:15</verse></h3>



Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the (d) Holy Ghost:



(d) Those excellent gifts which are necessary, especially for those that were to be appointed rulers
and governors of the Church.
#BCV:Acts 8:18
<h3><verse=Acts 8:18>Acts 8:18</verse></h3>




(8) And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given,
he offered them money,



(8) Covetousness and the seeking of glory at length remove the hypocrites from their dens.
#BCV:Acts 8:20
<h3><verse=Acts 8:20>Acts 8:20</verse></h3>




(9) But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of
God may be purchased with money.



(9) They are the successors of Simon Magus, and not Simon Peter, who either buy or sell holy things.
#BCV:Acts 8:21
<h3><verse=Acts 8:21>Acts 8:21</verse></h3>

<page=2744>Thou hast neither part nor lot in this (e) matter: for thy heart is not (f) right in the sight of God.



(e) In this doctrine which I preach.



(f) Is not upright indeed and without the concealing of hypocritical motives.
#BCV:Acts 8:22
<h3><verse=Acts 8:22>Acts 8:22</verse></h3>




(10) Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God, if perhaps the thought of thine heart
may be forgiven thee.



(10) We must hope well even for the vilest sinners, as long as and as much as we can.
#BCV:Acts 8:23
<h3><verse=Acts 8:23>Acts 8:23</verse></h3>



For I perceive that thou art in the (g) gall of bitterness, and [in] the (h) bond of iniquity.



(g) He calls the inward malice of the heart and the venomous and demonic wickedness with which
the magician was wholly filled with the gall of bitterness: and he is said to be in the gall, as though
he were wholly overwhelmed with gall, and buried in it.



(h) Entangled in the bonds of iniquity.
#BCV:Acts 8:26
<h3><verse=Acts 8:26>Acts 8:26</verse></h3>




(11) And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the
way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.



(11) Christ, who calls freely whom he wishes, now uses Philip, who was not thinking about any such
thing, to unexpectedly instruct and baptize the eunuch, and by this means extends the limits of his
kingdom even into Ethiopia.
#BCV:Acts 8:27
<h3><verse=Acts 8:27>Acts 8:27</verse></h3>



And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch (i) of great authority under
Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to
Jerusalem for to worship,



(i) A man of great wealth and authority with Candace. Now this word "Candace" is a common name
of all the Queens of Ethiopia.
#BCV:Acts 8:31
<h3><verse=Acts 8:31>Acts 8:31</verse></h3>



And he said, How can I, except some man should (k) guide me? And he desired Philip that he would
come up and sit with him.

<page=2745>(k) To show me the way to understand it.
#BCV:Acts 8:32
<h3><verse=Acts 8:32>Acts 8:32</verse></h3>




(12) The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and
like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:



(12) Those things which seem to come most by chance or fortune (as men term it) are governed by
the secret providence of God.
#BCV:Acts 8:33
<h3><verse=Acts 8:33>Acts 8:33</verse></h3>



In his (l) humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his (m) generation? for his
life is taken from the earth.



(l) The Hebrew text reads it in this way, "out of a narrow strait, and out of judgment was he taken":
and by the "narrow strait" he means the grave and the very bonds of death, and by "judgment" he
means the punishment which was laid upon him, and the miserable state which Christ took upon
himself for our sakes, in bearing his Father's wrath.



(m) How long he will endure: for Christ, having once risen from the dead, dies no more; (<bcv=Rom 6:9>Rom 6:9</bcv>).
#BCV:Acts 8:37
<h3><verse=Acts 8:37>Acts 8:37</verse></h3>




(13) And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said,



(n) I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.



(13) Profession of faith is required of those being baptized, and therefore it is evident that we are
not first ingrafted into Christ when we are baptized, but are already ingrafted, and then are baptized.



(Ed.)



(n) The sum of the confession which is necessary for baptism.

<h2>Acts 9</h2>

#BCV:Acts 9:1
<h3><verse=Acts 9:1>Acts 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=2746>And (1) Saul, yet (a) breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went
unto the high priest,



(1) Saul (who is also Paul), persecuting Christ most cruelly, who did as it were flee before him, falls
into Christ's hands, and is overcome: and with a singular example of the goodness of God, in place
of punishment which he justly deserved for his cruelty, is not only kindly received, but is also even
by the mouth of God appointed an apostle, and is confirmed by the ministry and witness of
Ananias.



(a) This is a sign that Saul's stomach boiled and cast out great threats to murder the disciples.
#BCV:Acts 9:2
<h3><verse=Acts 9:2>Acts 9:2</verse></h3>



And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this (b) way,
whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem.



(b) Any trade of life which a man take upon himself the Jews call a "way".
#BCV:Acts 9:5
<h3><verse=Acts 9:5>Acts 9:5</verse></h3>



And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: [it is] (c)
hard for thee to kick against the pricks.



(c) This is a proverb which is spoken of those who through their stubbornness hurt themselves.
#BCV:Acts 9:7
<h3><verse=Acts 9:7>Acts 9:7</verse></h3>



And the men which journeyed with him (d) stood speechless, hearing a (e) voice, but seeing no man.



(d) Stood still and could not go one step forward, but remained amazed as stood still like statues.



(e) They heard Paul's voice: for afterwards it is plainly said in (<bcv=Acts 22:9>Act 22:9</bcv>) that they did not hear the
voice of the one who spoke. Others, however, try to reconcile these places (which seem to
contradict) by saying that the men with Saul heard the sound of a voice, but did not hear it clearly.
#BCV:Acts 9:11
<h3><verse=Acts 9:11>Acts 9:11</verse></h3>



And the Lord [said] unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in
the house of Judas for [one] called Saul, of (f) Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth,

<page=2747>(f) Tarsus was a city of Cilicia near to Anchiala. It is said that Sardanapalus built these two cities in
one day.
#BCV:Acts 9:15
<h3><verse=Acts 9:15>Acts 9:15</verse></h3>



But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a (g) chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name
before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel:



(g) To bear my name in.
#BCV:Acts 9:16
<h3><verse=Acts 9:16>Acts 9:16</verse></h3>



For I will (h) shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.



(h) I will plainly show him.
#BCV:Acts 9:17
<h3><verse=Acts 9:17>Acts 9:17</verse></h3>



And Ananias went his way, and entered into (i) the house; and putting his hands on him said,
Brother Saul, the Lord, [even] Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me,
that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost.



(i) Into Judas' house.
#BCV:Acts 9:20
<h3><verse=Acts 9:20>Acts 9:20</verse></h3>




(2) And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God.



(2) Paul begins immediately to execute the office which was given and commanded to him, never
consulting with flesh and blood.
#BCV:Acts 9:22
<h3><verse=Acts 9:22>Acts 9:22</verse></h3>




(3) But Saul increased the more in strength, and confounded the Jews which dwelt at Damascus, (k)
proving that this is very Christ.



(3) Paul does not do battle only with his own authority, but also with the testimonies of the Prophets.



(k) By conferring places of the Scripture together, as skilful craftsman do when they make
something, they used to gather all parts together, to make them agree fitly one with another.
#BCV:Acts 9:23
<h3><verse=Acts 9:23>Acts 9:23</verse></h3>




(4) And after that many days were fulfilled, the Jews took counsel to kill him:

<page=2748>(4) Paul, who was before a persecutor, now has persecution planned against himself, though it will
not happen for a long time.
#BCV:Acts 9:25
<h3><verse=Acts 9:25>Acts 9:25</verse></h3>




(5) Then the disciples took him by night, and let [him] down by the wall in a basket.



(5) We are not forbidden to avoid and eschew the dangers and conspiracies that the enemies of God
lay for us, but only if we do not swerve from our vocation.
#BCV:Acts 9:26
<h3><verse=Acts 9:26>Acts 9:26</verse></h3>




(6) And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were
all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.



(6) In ancient times no man was rashly or lightly received into the members and the sheep of the
Church, much less to be a pastor.
#BCV:Acts 9:28
<h3><verse=Acts 9:28>Acts 9:28</verse></h3>




(7) And he was (l) with them coming in and going out at Jerusalem.



(7) The steadfast servants of God must look out for danger after danger: yet God watches out for
them.



(l) With Peter and James, for he says that he saw none of the apostles but them; (<bcv=Gal 1:18-19>Gal 1:18-19</bcv>).
#BCV:Acts 9:29
<h3><verse=Acts 9:29>Acts 9:29</verse></h3>



And he spake boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the (m) Grecians: but they
went about to slay him.



(m) See (<bcv=Acts 6:1>Act 6:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Acts 9:30
<h3><verse=Acts 9:30>Acts 9:30</verse></h3>




(8) [Which] when the brethren knew, they brought him down to Caesarea, and sent him forth to
Tarsus.



(8) The ministers of the word may change their place with the advice and counsel of the
congregation and church.
#BCV:Acts 9:31
<h3><verse=Acts 9:31>Acts 9:31</verse></h3>


<page=2749>(9) Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were (n) edified;
and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied.



(9) The result of persecutions is the building of the Church, so that we will patiently wait for the
Lord.



(n) This is a borrowed type of speech which signifies establishment and increase.
#BCV:Acts 9:32
<h3><verse=Acts 9:32>Acts 9:32</verse></h3>




(10) And it came to pass, as Peter passed throughout all [quarters], he came down also to the saints
which dwelt at Lydda.



(10) Peter's apostleship is confirmed by the healing of the man who suffered from paralysis.
#BCV:Acts 9:35
<h3><verse=Acts 9:35>Acts 9:35</verse></h3>



And all that dwelt at (o) Lydda and Saron saw him, and turned to the Lord.



(o) Lydda was a city of Palestine, and Saron a first-class country, and a place which was excellent for
grazing, between Caesarea of Palestine and Mount Tabor, and the lake of Gennesaret, which goes
far beyond Joppa.
#BCV:Acts 9:36
<h3><verse=Acts 9:36>Acts 9:36</verse></h3>




(11) Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called
Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.



(11) Peter clearly declares, by raising up a dead body through the name of Christ, that he preaches
the glad tidings of life.

<h2>Acts 10</h2>

#BCV:Acts 10:1
<h3><verse=Acts 10:1>Acts 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=2750>There (1) was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian
[band],



(1) Peter consecrates the first fruits of the Gentiles to God by the means of two miracles.
#BCV:Acts 10:2
<h3><verse=Acts 10:2>Acts 10:2</verse></h3>



[A] (a) devout [man], and one that feared God with (b) all his house, which gave much alms to the
people, and prayed to God alway.



(a) So that he worshipped one God, and was not an idolater, and neither could he be void of faith in
Christ, because he was a devout man: but as of yet he did not know that Christ had come.



(b) This is a commendable thing about the man, that he laboured to have all his household, and wellknown
friends, and acquaintances to be religious and godly.
#BCV:Acts 10:4
<h3><verse=Acts 10:4>Acts 10:4</verse></h3>



And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, (c) What is it, Lord? And he said unto him,
Thy prayers and thine alms are (d) come up for (e) a memorial before God.



(c) What do you want with me Lord? For he prepares himself to hear.



(d) This is a borrowed kind of speech which the Hebrews used very much, taken from sacrifices and
applied to prayers: for it is said of whole burnt sacrifices that the smoke and smell of them goes up
into God's nostrils, and so do our prayers, as a sweet smelling sacrifice which the Lord takes great
pleasure in.



(e) That is, in as much that they will not allow God as it were to forget you: for so the Scripture
often talks childish with us as nurses do with little children, when they prepare their tongues to
speak.

#BCV:Acts 10:10
<h3><verse=Acts 10:10>Acts 10:10</verse></h3>



And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a (f)
trance,



(f) For though Peter does not stand amazed as one that is tongue tied, but talks with God and is
instructed in his mysteries, yet his mind was far from being as it normally was; shortly, however, it
returned to its normal state.
#BCV:Acts 10:11
<h3><verse=Acts 10:11>Acts 10:11</verse></h3>

#BCV:act 10:11
<h3><verse=act 10:11>act 10:11</verse></h3>



at the (g) four corners, and let down to the earth:



(g) So that it seemed to be a square sheet.

#BCV:Acts 10:12
<h3><verse=Acts 10:12>Acts 10:12</verse></h3>



Wherein were (h) all manner of (i) fourfooted beasts of the earth, and wild beasts, and (k) creeping
things, and fowls of the air.



(h) Here is this word "all" which is general, plainly used for something indefinite and uncertain, that
is to say, for some of all sorts, not for all of every sort.



(i) That is, such as were proper for men's use.



(k) To see what is meant by these creeping things see <bcv=Lev 11:2-47>(Lev. 11:2-47).</bcv>

#BCV:Acts 10:14
<h3><verse=Acts 10:14>Acts 10:14</verse></h3>




(2) But Peter said, Not so, Lord; for I have never eaten any thing that is common or unclean.



(2) Peter learns daily in the knowledge of the benefit of Christ, yea, even after he had received the
Holy Spirit.
#BCV:Acts 10:15
<h3><verse=Acts 10:15>Acts 10:15</verse></h3>



And the voice [spake] unto him again the second time, What God hath cleansed, [that] (l) call not
thou common.



(l) Do not consider them to be unprofitable.
#BCV:Acts 10:25
<h3><verse=Acts 10:25>Acts 10:25</verse></h3>




(3) And as Peter was coming in, Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped [him].



(3) Religious adoration of worship is proper only to God: but civil worship is given to the ministers
of the word, although not without danger.
#BCV:Acts 10:30
<h3><verse=Acts 10:30>Acts 10:30</verse></h3>



And Cornelius said, Four days ago I was fasting until (m) this hour; and at the ninth hour I prayed in
my house, and, behold, a man stood before me in bright clothing,

<page=2752>(m) He does not mean the very hour at the present time (as it was nine o'clock when he spoke to
Peter), but the like, that is, about nine o'clock the other day.
#BCV:Acts 10:31
<h3><verse=Acts 10:31>Acts 10:31</verse></h3>




(4) And said, Cornelius, thy prayer is heard, and thine alms are had in remembrance in the sight of
God.



(4) Cornelius' faith demonstrated itself by prayer and charity.
#BCV:Acts 10:32
<h3><verse=Acts 10:32>Acts 10:32</verse></h3>




(5) Send therefore to Joppa, and call hither Simon, whose surname is Peter; he is lodged in the house
of [one] Simon a tanner by the sea side: who, when he cometh, shall speak unto thee.



(5) As faith comes by hearing, so it is nourished and grows up by the same.
#BCV:Acts 10:34
<h3><verse=Acts 10:34>Acts 10:34</verse></h3>




(6) Then Peter opened [his] mouth, and said, Of a truth I perceive that (n) God is no respecter of
persons:



(6) Distinction of nations is taken away by the coming of Christ: and it is evidently seen by their
faith and righteousness, which ones are agreeable to him and which ones he accepts. (n) That God
does not judge according to the outward appearance.
#BCV:Acts 10:35
<h3><verse=Acts 10:35>Acts 10:35</verse></h3>



But in every nation he that (o) feareth him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with him.



(o) By the "fear of God" the Hebrews understood the whole service of God, by which we perceive
that Cornelius was not void of faith, no more than they were who lived before Christ's time: and
therefore they deal incorrectly who deduce meritorious works and free will from this passage.
#BCV:Acts 10:36
<h3><verse=Acts 10:36>Acts 10:36</verse></h3>



The (p) word which [God] sent unto the children of Israel, preaching peace by Jesus Christ: (he is
Lord of all:)



(p) God showed the Israelites that whoever lives godly is acceptable to God, no matter what nation
he comes from, for he preached peace to men through Jesus Christ, who is Lord not only of one
nation, that is, of the Jews, but of all.
#BCV:Acts 10:37
<h3><verse=Acts 10:37>Acts 10:37</verse></h3>

#BCV:act 10:37
<h3><verse=act 10:37>act 10:37</verse></h3>



after the baptism which John preached;



(7) The sum of the Gospel (which will be made manifest at the latter day, when Christ himself will
sit as judge both of the living and the dead), is this, that Christ promised to the fathers and exhibited
in his time with the mighty power of God (which was demonstrated by all means) and at length
crucified to reconcile us to God, did rise again the third day, so that whoever believes in him should
be saved through the remission of sins.
#BCV:Acts 10:38
<h3><verse=Acts 10:38>Acts 10:38</verse></h3>



How God (q) anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about
doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.



(q) This manner of speaking is taken from an old custom of the Jews, who used to anoint their
kings and priests, because of which it came to pass to call those anointed upon whom God
bestowed gifts and virtues.
#BCV:Acts 10:41
<h3><verse=Acts 10:41>Acts 10:41</verse></h3>



Not to all the people, but unto witnesses (r) chosen before of God, [even] to us, who did eat and
drink with him after he rose from the dead.



(r) This choosing of the apostles is properly given to God: for though God is president in the lawful
election of ministers, yet there is in this place a secret opposition and setting of God's choosing and
men's voices against one another, for the apostles are appointed directly by God, and the Church
ministers indirectly.
#BCV:Acts 10:44
<h3><verse=Acts 10:44>Acts 10:44</verse></h3>




(8) While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.



(8) The Spirit of God seals that in the heart of the hearers which the minister of the word speaks by
the commandment of God, as is evident by the results.
#BCV:Acts 10:47
<h3><verse=Acts 10:47>Acts 10:47</verse></h3>




(9) Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy
Ghost as well as we?



(9) Baptism does not sanctify or make those holy who receive it, but is an outward sign to the world
of the profession of faith. (Ed.)

<h2>Acts 11</h2>

#BCV:Acts 11:1
<h3><verse=Acts 11:1>Acts 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=2754>And (1) the apostles and brethren that were in Judaea heard that the Gentiles had also received the
word of God.



(1) Peter, being reprehended without reason by the unskilful and ignorant, does not object and say
that he should not be judged by any, but openly gives an account of his actions.
#BCV:Acts 11:18
<h3><verse=Acts 11:18>Acts 11:18</verse></h3>




(2) When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God
also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.



(2) Those who ask a question of the truth which they do not know, ought to be quietly heard, and
must also quietly yield to the declaration of the truth.
#BCV:Acts 11:19
<h3><verse=Acts 11:19>Acts 11:19</verse></h3>




(3) Now they which were scattered abroad upon the persecution that arose about Stephen travelled
as far as Phenice, and Cyprus, and (a) Antioch, preaching the word to none but unto the Jews only.



(3) The scattering abroad of Jerusalem is the cause of the gathering together of many other
churches.



(a) He speaks of Antioch which was in Syria and bordered upon Cilicia.
#BCV:Acts 11:20
<h3><verse=Acts 11:20>Acts 11:20</verse></h3>




(4) And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene, which, when they were come to Antioch,
spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus.



(4) The church of Antioch, the new Jerusalem of the Gentiles, was extraordinarily called.
#BCV:Acts 11:22
<h3><verse=Acts 11:22>Acts 11:22</verse></h3>




(5) Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they
sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch.



(5) The apostles do not rashly condemn an extraordinary calling, but instead they judge it by the
effects.
#BCV:Acts 11:25
<h3><verse=Acts 11:25>Acts 11:25</verse></h3>

#BCV:act 11:25
<h3><verse=act 11:25>act 11:25</verse></h3>




(6) There was no contention amongst the apostles, either with regard to usurping, or with regard to
holding places of degree.
#BCV:Acts 11:27
<h3><verse=Acts 11:27>Acts 11:27</verse></h3>




(7) And in these days came prophets from Jerusalem unto Antioch.



(7) God punishes his Church when he punishes the wicked, in his scourges and plagues which he
sends upon the earth, in such a way that he nonetheless conveniently provides for it.
#BCV:Acts 11:29
<h3><verse=Acts 11:29>Acts 11:29</verse></h3>




(8) Then the disciples, every man according to his ability, determined to send (b) relief unto the
brethren which dwelt in Judaea:



(8) All congregations or churches make one body.



(b) That is, that the deacons might help the poor with it: for it was appropriate and helpful to have
all these things done orderly and decently, and therefore it is said that they sent these things to the
elders, that is, to the governors of the Church.

<h2>Acts 12</h2>

#BCV:Acts 12:1
<h3><verse=Acts 12:1>Acts 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=2756>Now (1) about that time (a) Herod the king stretched forth [his] hands to vex certain of the church.



(1) God gives his Church peace only for a short time.



(a) This name Herod was common to all those that come from the stock of Herod Ascalonites, whose
surname was Magnus: but he that is spoken of here was nephew to Herod the great, son to Aristobulus, and
father to the Agrippa who is spoken of afterwards.
#BCV:Acts 12:2
<h3><verse=Acts 12:2>Acts 12:2</verse></h3>



And he (b) killed James the brother of John with the sword.



(b) Violently, his cause not being heard at all.
#BCV:Acts 12:3
<h3><verse=Acts 12:3>Acts 12:3</verse></h3>




(2) And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of
unleavened bread.)



(2) It is an old habit of tyrants to attain the favour of the wicked, with the blood of the godly.
#BCV:Acts 12:4
<h3><verse=Acts 12:4>Acts 12:4</verse></h3>




(3) And when he had apprehended him, he put [him] in prison, and delivered [him] to four quaternions of
soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people.



(3) The tyrants and wicked make a gallows for themselves even then when they do most according to their
own will and fantasy.
#BCV:Acts 12:5
<h3><verse=Acts 12:5>Acts 12:5</verse></h3>




(4) Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.



(4) The prayers of the godly overturn the counsel of tyrants, obtain angels from God, break the prison,
unloose the chains, put Satan to flight, and preserve the Church.
#BCV:Acts 12:7
<h3><verse=Acts 12:7>Acts 12:7</verse></h3>



And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon [him], and a light shined in the (c) prison: and he smote Peter
on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from [his] hands.



(c) Literally, "habitation"; (Ed.).
#BCV:Acts 12:12
<h3><verse=Acts 12:12>Acts 12:12</verse></h3>


<page=2757>(5) And when he had considered [the thing], he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose
surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.



(5) Holy meetings in the nights of both men and women (when they cannot take place in the day time) are
allowable by the example of the apostles.
#BCV:Acts 12:13
<h3><verse=Acts 12:13>Acts 12:13</verse></h3>




(6) And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel (d) came to hearken, named Rhoda.



(6) We obtain more from God than we dare well hope for.



(d) Out of the place where they were assembled, but not out of the house.
#BCV:Acts 12:17
<h3><verse=Acts 12:17>Acts 12:17</verse></h3>




(7) But he, beckoning unto them with the hand to hold their peace, declared unto them how the Lord had
brought him out of the prison. And he said, Go shew these things unto James, and to the brethren. And he
departed, and went into another place.



(7) We may sometimes give place to the rage of the wicked, but yet only in such a way that our diligence
which ought to be used in God's business does not slacken in the least.
#BCV:Acts 12:18
<h3><verse=Acts 12:18>Acts 12:18</verse></h3>




(8) Now as soon as it was day, there was no small stir among the soldiers, what was become of Peter.



(8) Evil counsel in the end results in the hurt of those who devised it.
#BCV:Acts 12:20
<h3><verse=Acts 12:20>Acts 12:20</verse></h3>




(9) And Herod was highly displeased with them of Tyre and Sidon: but they came with one accord to him,
and, having made Blastus the king's chamberlain their friend, desired peace; because their country was
nourished by the king's [country].



(9) A miserable and shameful example of what happens to the enemies of the Church.
#BCV:Acts 12:22
<h3><verse=Acts 12:22>Acts 12:22</verse></h3>




(10) And the people gave a shout, [saying, It is] the voice of a god, and not of a man.



(10) The flattery of people makes fools glad.
#BCV:Acts 12:23
<h3><verse=Acts 12:23>Acts 12:23</verse></h3>


<page=2758>(11) And immediately the angel of the Lord smote him, because he (e) gave not God the glory: and he was
eaten of worms, and gave up the ghost.



(11) God resists the proud.



(e) Josephus records that this king did not repress the flatterer's tongues, and therefore at his death he
complained and cried out about their empty praise.
#BCV:Acts 12:24
<h3><verse=Acts 12:24>Acts 12:24</verse></h3>




(12) But the (s) word of God grew and multiplied.



(12) Tyrants build up the Church by destroying it.



(s) Those that heard the word of God.

<h2>Acts 13</h2>

#BCV:Acts 13:1
<h3><verse=Acts 13:1>Acts 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=2759>Now (1) there were in the church that was at Antioch certain prophets and teachers; as Barnabas,
and Simeon that was called Niger, and Lucius of Cyrene, and Manaen, which had been brought up
with (a) Herod the tetrarch, and Saul.



(1) Paul with Barnabas is again the second time appointed apostle of the Gentiles, not of man,
neither by man, but by an extraordinary commandment of the Holy Spirit.



(a) This was the same Antipas who put John the Baptist to death.
#BCV:Acts 13:2
<h3><verse=Acts 13:2>Acts 13:2</verse></h3>



As they (b) ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul
for the work whereunto I have (c) called them.



(b) While they were busy doing their office, that is, as Chrysostom expounds it, while they were
preaching.



(c) The Lord is said to call, from which this word "called" comes from, which is common in the
Church, when he causes that to be which was not, whether you refer it to the matter itself, or to any
quality or thing about the matter: and the use of the word "call" has come about because when
things begin to be, then they have some name: and furthermore this also declares God's mighty
power, in that he spoke the word, and things were made.
#BCV:Acts 13:3
<h3><verse=Acts 13:3>Acts 13:3</verse></h3>




(2) And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid [their] hands on them, they sent [them] away.



(2) Fasting and solemn prayers were used before the laying on of hands.
#BCV:Acts 13:4
<h3><verse=Acts 13:4>Acts 13:4</verse></h3>




(3) So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto (d) Seleucia; and from thence they
sailed to Cyprus.



(3) Paul and his companions first bring Cyprus to the subjection and obedience of Christ.



(d) Seleucia was a city of Cilicia, so called after Seleucus, one of Alexander's successors.
#BCV:Acts 13:8
<h3><verse=Acts 13:8>Acts 13:8</verse></h3>


<page=2760>(4) But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn
away the deputy from the faith.



(4) The devil makes Christ's victory more glorious in that he sets himself against him.
#BCV:Acts 13:10
<h3><verse=Acts 13:10>Acts 13:10</verse></h3>




(5) And said, O full of all subtilty and all (e) mischief, [thou] child of the devil, [thou] enemy of all
righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?



(5) The sorcerer, who was stricken by Paul with a physical punishment (although extraordinarily),
shows an example to lawful magistrates how they ought to punish those who wickedly and
obstinately hinder the course of the Gospel.



(e) He points out a fault of those who run eagerly and with great desire into all types of wickedness
with the least bit of prompting from the world.
#BCV:Acts 13:11
<h3><verse=Acts 13:11>Acts 13:11</verse></h3>



And now, behold, the (f) hand of the Lord [is] upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun
for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking
some to lead him by the hand.



(f) His power which he shows in striking and beating down his enemies.
#BCV:Acts 13:13
<h3><verse=Acts 13:13>Acts 13:13</verse></h3>




(6) Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and
John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.



(6) An example in one and the very same group of people both of singular steadfastness, and also
of great weakness.
#BCV:Acts 13:14
<h3><verse=Acts 13:14>Acts 13:14</verse></h3>



But when they departed from Perga, they came to Antioch in (g) Pisidia, and went into the
synagogue on the sabbath day, and sat down.



(g) This distinguishes between it, and Antioch which was in Syria.
#BCV:Acts 13:15
<h3><verse=Acts 13:15>Acts 13:15</verse></h3>




(7) And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them,
saying, [Ye] men [and] brethren, if ye (h) have any word of exhortation for the people, say on.

<page=2761>(7) In the Synagogue of the Jews (according to the pattern of which Christian congregations were
instituted) the Scriptures were read first, then those who were learned were licensed by the rulers of
the Synagogue to speak and expound.



(h) Literally, "If there is any word in you": this is a kind of speech taken from the Hebrews, by
which is meant that the gifts of God's grace are in us, as it were in treasure houses, and that they are
not ours, but God's. In the same way David says, "Thou hast put a new song in my mouth"; (Psa
40:3).
#BCV:Acts 13:16
<h3><verse=Acts 13:16>Acts 13:16</verse></h3>




(8) Then Paul stood up, and beckoning with [his] hand said, Men of Israel, and ye that fear God,
give audience.



(8) God bestowed many wonderful benefits upon his chosen Israel, but especially this, that he
promised them the everlasting redeemer.
#BCV:Acts 13:17
<h3><verse=Acts 13:17>Acts 13:17</verse></h3>



The God of this people of Israel chose our fathers, and (i) exalted the people when they dwelt as
strangers in the land of Egypt, and with an (k) high arm brought he them out of it.



(i) Advanced and brought to honour.



(k) Openly and with strong power, breaking in pieces the enemies of his people.
#BCV:Acts 13:20
<h3><verse=Acts 13:20>Acts 13:20</verse></h3>



And after that he gave [unto them] judges about the space of (l) four hundred and fifty years, until
Samuel the prophet.



(l) There were from the birth of Isaac until the destruction of the Canaanites under the governance
of Joshua four hundred and forty-seven years, and therefore he adds in this place the word "about",
for three years are missing; the apostle, however, uses the whole greater number.
#BCV:Acts 13:21
<h3><verse=Acts 13:21>Acts 13:21</verse></h3>



And afterward they desired a king: and God gave unto them Saul the son of Cis, a man of the tribe
of Benjamin, by the space of (m) forty years.



(m) In this space of forty years the time of Samuel must be counted and included with the days of
Saul, for the kingdom did as it were include his administration.
#BCV:Acts 13:23
<h3><verse=Acts 13:23>Acts 13:23</verse></h3>


<page=2762>(9) Of this man's seed hath God according to [his] promise raised unto Israel a Saviour, Jesus:



(9) He proves by the witness of John that Jesus is the Saviour who would come from David.
#BCV:Acts 13:24
<h3><verse=Acts 13:24>Acts 13:24</verse></h3>



When John had first preached (n) before his coming the baptism of repentance to all the people of
Israel.



(n) John as a herald did not show Christ coming from afar off, as the other prophets did, but right at
hand and having already begun his journey.
#BCV:Acts 13:26
<h3><verse=Acts 13:26>Acts 13:26</verse></h3>




(10) Men [and] brethren, children of the stock of Abraham, and whosoever among you feareth God,
to you is the word of this salvation sent.



(10) Christ was promised and sent appropriately to the Jews.
#BCV:Acts 13:27
<h3><verse=Acts 13:27>Acts 13:27</verse></h3>




(11) For they that dwell at Jerusalem, and their rulers, because they knew him not, nor yet the voices
of the prophets which are read every sabbath day, they have fulfilled [them] in condemning [him].



(11) All things came to pass to Christ, which the Prophets foretold concerning the Messiah: so that
by this also it appears that he is the true and only saviour: and yet nonetheless they are not to be
excused who did not only not receive him, but also persecuted him most cruelly, even though he was
innocent.
#BCV:Acts 13:30
<h3><verse=Acts 13:30>Acts 13:30</verse></h3>




(12) But God raised him from the dead:



(12) We must set the glory of the resurrection against the shame of the cross, and the grave. And
the resurrection is equally proved by the witnesses who saw it, and by the testimonies of the
Prophets.
#BCV:Acts 13:33
<h3><verse=Acts 13:33>Acts 13:33</verse></h3>



God hath fulfilled the same unto us their children, in that he (o) hath raised up Jesus again; (13) as it
is also written in the second psalm, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee.



(o) For then he appeared plainly and manifestly as the only Son of God, when he left behind his
weakness and came out of the grave, having conquered death.

<page=2763>(13) If Christ had remained dead, he would not have been the true Son of God, neither would the
covenant which was made with David have been certain.
#BCV:Acts 13:34
<h3><verse=Acts 13:34>Acts 13:34</verse></h3>



And as concerning that he raised him up from the dead, [now] no more to return to corruption, he
said on this wise, I will give you the (p) sure mercies of David.



(p) The Greeks call those things "holy things" which the Hebrews call "gracious bounties": and they
are called David's bounties in the passive voice, because God bestowed them upon David. Moreover,
they are termed "sure", after the manner of speech which the Hebrews use, who terms those things
"sure" which are steady and certain, and such things which never alter or change.
#BCV:Acts 13:35
<h3><verse=Acts 13:35>Acts 13:35</verse></h3>




(14) Wherefore he saith also in another [psalm], Thou shalt not suffer thine Holy One to see
corruption.



(14) The Lord was in the grace in such a way that he experienced no corruption.
#BCV:Acts 13:38
<h3><verse=Acts 13:38>Acts 13:38</verse></h3>




(15) Be it known unto you therefore, men [and] brethren, that through this man is preached unto
you the forgiveness of sins:



(15) Christ was sent to give them free remission of sins who were condemned by the Law.
#BCV:Acts 13:39
<h3><verse=Acts 13:39>Acts 13:39</verse></h3>



And by him all that believe are justified from (q) all things, from which ye could not be justified by
the law of Moses.



(q) Whereas the ceremonies of the Law could not absolve you from your sins, this man absolves you,
if you lay hold of him by faith.
#BCV:Acts 13:40
<h3><verse=Acts 13:40>Acts 13:40</verse></h3>




(16) Beware therefore, lest that come upon you, which is spoken of in the prophets;



(16) The benefits of God turn to the utter undoing of those that condemn them.
#BCV:Acts 13:42
<h3><verse=Acts 13:42>Acts 13:42</verse></h3>


<page=2764>(17) And when the Jews were gone out of the synagogue, the Gentiles besought that these words
might be preached to them the next sabbath.



(17) The Gentiles go before the Jews into the kingdom of heaven.
#BCV:Acts 13:43
<h3><verse=Acts 13:43>Acts 13:43</verse></h3>



Now when the congregation was broken up, many of the Jews and (r) religious proselytes followed
Paul and Barnabas: who, speaking to them, persuaded them to continue in the grace of God.



(r) Who had forsaken their heathen religion, and embraced the religion set forth by Moses.
#BCV:Acts 13:45
<h3><verse=Acts 13:45>Acts 13:45</verse></h3>




(18) But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things
which were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming.



(18) The favour on the very same Gospel is to the reprobate and unbelievers death, and to the elect
and those who believe it is life.
#BCV:Acts 13:46
<h3><verse=Acts 13:46>Acts 13:46</verse></h3>




(19) Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should
first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and (s) judge yourselves unworthy of
everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles.



(19) The Gospel is proclaimed to the Gentiles by the express commandment of God.



(s) By this your doing you pronounce as it were sentence upon yourselves, and judge yourselves.
#BCV:Acts 13:48
<h3><verse=Acts 13:48>Acts 13:48</verse></h3>



And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many
as were (t) ordained to eternal life believed.



(t) Therefore either all were not appointed to everlasting life, or either all believed, but because all
did not believe, it follows that certain ones were ordained: and therefore God did not only foreknow,
but also foreordained, that neither faith nor the effects of faith should be the cause of his ordaining,
or appointment, but his ordaining the cause of faith.
#BCV:Acts 13:50
<h3><verse=Acts 13:50>Acts 13:50</verse></h3>




(20) But the Jews stirred up the (u) devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the city,
and raised persecution against Paul and Barnabas, and expelled them out of their coasts.

<page=2765>(20) Such is the craft and subtlety of the enemies of the Gospel, that they abuse the simplicity of
some who are not altogether evil men, in order to execute their cruelty.



(u) Those who embraced the Law of Moses.
#BCV:Acts 13:51
<h3><verse=Acts 13:51>Acts 13:51</verse></h3>




(21) But they shook off the dust of their feet against them, and came unto Iconium.



(21) The wickedness of the world cannot prevent God from gathering his Church together, and to
foster and cherish it, when it is gathered together.

<h2>Acts 14</h2>

#BCV:Acts 14:1
<h3><verse=Acts 14:1>Acts 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=2766>And (1) it came to pass in (a) Iconium, that they went both together into the synagogue of the Jews,
and so spake, that a great multitude both of the Jews and also of the Greeks believed.



(1) We should be no less constant in the preaching of the Gospel than the perversity of the wicked
is obstinate in persecuting it.



(a) Iconium was a city of Lycaonia.
#BCV:Acts 14:2
<h3><verse=Acts 14:2>Acts 14:2</verse></h3>



But the (b) unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles, and made their minds evil affected against the
brethren.



(b) Who did not obey the doctrine.
#BCV:Acts 14:3
<h3><verse=Acts 14:3>Acts 14:3</verse></h3>




(2) Long time therefore abode they speaking boldly in the Lord, which gave testimony unto the
word of his grace, and granted signs and wonders to be done by their hands.



(2) We should not leave our places and give in to threatenings, or to open rage, but only when there
is no other remedy, and that not for our own peace and quiet, but only so that the Gospel may be
spread further abroad.
#BCV:Acts 14:6
<h3><verse=Acts 14:6>Acts 14:6</verse></h3>



They were ware of [it], and (c) fled unto Lystra and Derbe, cities of Lycaonia, and unto the region
that lieth round about:



(c) It is sometimes proper to flee dangers, at the appropriate times.
#BCV:Acts 14:8
<h3><verse=Acts 14:8>Acts 14:8</verse></h3>




(3) And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's
womb, who never had walked:



(3) It is an old subtlety of the devil, either to cause the faithful servants of God to be immediately
banished, or to be worshipped as idols: and he does this by taking occasion of miracles which they
have done.
#BCV:Acts 14:13
<h3><verse=Acts 14:13>Acts 14:13</verse></h3>

#BCV:act 14:13
<h3><verse=act 14:13>act 14:13</verse></h3>



and would have done sacrifice with the people.



(d) Of the house where Paul and Barnabas were.
#BCV:Acts 14:15
<h3><verse=Acts 14:15>Acts 14:15</verse></h3>




(4) And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of (e) like passions with you, and
preach unto you that ye should turn from these (f) vanities unto the living God, which made heaven,
and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:



(4) That is also called idolatry which gives to creatures, be they ever so holy and excellent, that which
is proper to the only One God, that is, invocation, or calling upon.



(e) Men, as you are, and partakers of the very same nature of man as you are.



(f) He calls idols "vanities", after the manner of the Hebrews.
#BCV:Acts 14:16
<h3><verse=Acts 14:16>Acts 14:16</verse></h3>




(5) Who in times past (g) suffered all nations to walk in their own ways.



(5) Custom, be it ever so old, does not excuse the idolaters.



(g) Allowed them to live as they wished, prescribing and appointing them no type of religion.
#BCV:Acts 14:19
<h3><verse=Acts 14:19>Acts 14:19</verse></h3>




(6) And there came thither [certain] Jews from Antioch and Iconium, who persuaded the people,
and, having stoned Paul, drew [him] out of the city, supposing he had been dead.



(6) The devil, when he is brought to his last chance, at length rages openly, but in vain, even at that
time when he seems to have the upper hand.
#BCV:Acts 14:21
<h3><verse=Acts 14:21>Acts 14:21</verse></h3>




(7) And when they had preached the gospel to that city, and had taught many, they returned again to
Lystra, and [to] Iconium, and Antioch,



(7) We must go forward in our calling through a thousand deaths.
#BCV:Acts 14:22
<h3><verse=Acts 14:22>Acts 14:22</verse></h3>


<page=2768>(8) Confirming the souls of the disciples, [and] exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we
must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.



(8) It is the office of the ministers, not only to teach, but also to confirm those that are taught, and
prepare them for the cross.
#BCV:Acts 14:23
<h3><verse=Acts 14:23>Acts 14:23</verse></h3>




(9) And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they
commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.



(9) The apostles committed the churches which they had planted to proper and special pastors, who
they appointed not rashly, but with prayers and fastings preceding their choice: neither did they
thrust them upon churches through bribery, or lordly superiority, but chose and placed them by the
voice of the congregation.
#BCV:Acts 14:24
<h3><verse=Acts 14:24>Acts 14:24</verse></h3>




(10) And after they had passed throughout Pisidia, they came to Pamphylia.



(10) Paul and Barnabas, having completed their journey, and having returned to Antioch, give an
account of their journey to the congregation or church.
#BCV:Acts 14:25
<h3><verse=Acts 14:25>Acts 14:25</verse></h3>



And when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down into (h) Attalia:



(h) Attalia was a sea city of Pamphylia, near to Lycia.
#BCV:Acts 14:26
<h3><verse=Acts 14:26>Acts 14:26</verse></h3>



And thence sailed to (i) Antioch, from whence they had been recommended to the grace of God for
the work which they fulfilled.



(i) Antioch of Syria.

<h2>Acts 15</h2>

#BCV:Acts 15:1
<h3><verse=Acts 15:1>Acts 15:1</verse></h3>

<page=2769>And (1) (a) certain men which came down from Judaea taught the brethren, [and said], Except ye be
circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved.



(1) The Church is at length troubled with dissension within itself, and the trouble rises from the
proud and stubborn intellects of certain evil men. The first strife was concerning the office of
Christ, whether we are saved only by his righteousness apprehended by faith, or if we also have need
to observe the Law.



(a) Epiphanius is of the opinion that this was Cerinthus.
#BCV:Acts 15:2
<h3><verse=Acts 15:2>Acts 15:2</verse></h3>




(2) When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they
determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the
apostles and elders about this question.



(2) Meetings of congregations were instituted to suppress heresies, to which certain were sent by
common consent on behalf of all.
#BCV:Acts 15:3
<h3><verse=Acts 15:3>Acts 15:3</verse></h3>



And (b) being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria,
declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren.



(b) Courteously and lovingly brought on their way by the Church, that is, by certain ones appointed
by the Church.
#BCV:Acts 15:6
<h3><verse=Acts 15:6>Acts 15:6</verse></h3>




(3) And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter.



(3) The matter is first handled, both parts being heard, in the assembly of the apostles and elders,
and after is communicated to the people.
#BCV:Acts 15:7
<h3><verse=Acts 15:7>Acts 15:7</verse></h3>



And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, (4) Men [and]
brethren, ye know how that a (c) good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by
my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.

<page=2770>(4) God himself, in the calling of the Gentiles who are uncircumcised, taught that our salvation
consists in faith, without the worship appointed by the Law.



(c) Literally, "of old time", that is, even from the first time that we were commanded to preach the
Gospel, and immediately after that the Holy Spirit came down upon us.
#BCV:Acts 15:9
<h3><verse=Acts 15:9>Acts 15:9</verse></h3>



And put no (d) difference between us and them, purifying their hearts (e) by faith.



(d) He put no difference between us and them, with regard to the benefit of his free favour.



(e) Christ proclaims those blessed who are pure of heart: and here we are plainly taught that men are
made pure of heart by faith.
#BCV:Acts 15:10
<h3><verse=Acts 15:10>Acts 15:10</verse></h3>




(5) Now therefore why (f) tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither
our fathers nor we were able to bear?



(5) Peter, passing from the ceremonies to the Law itself in general, shows that no one could be
saved, if salvation were to be sought for by the Law, and not by grace alone in Jesus Christ; and this
is because no man could ever fulfil the Law, neither the patriarch nor the apostle.



(f) Why do you tempt God, as though he could not save by faith?
#BCV:Acts 15:12
<h3><verse=Acts 15:12>Acts 15:12</verse></h3>




(6) Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what
miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.



(6) A true pattern of a lawful council, where God's truth alone reigns.
#BCV:Acts 15:13
<h3><verse=Acts 15:13>Acts 15:13</verse></h3>



And after they had held their peace, (g) James answered, saying, Men [and] brethren, hearken unto
me:



(g) The son of Alphaeus, who is also called the Lord's brother.
#BCV:Acts 15:14
<h3><verse=Acts 15:14>Acts 15:14</verse></h3>




(7) Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people
for his name.

<page=2771>(7) James confirms the calling of the Gentiles out of the word of God, in this agreeing with Peter.
#BCV:Acts 15:18
<h3><verse=Acts 15:18>Acts 15:18</verse></h3>




(h) Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world.



(h) And therefore nothing comes to pass by chance, but only by God's appointment.
#BCV:Acts 15:19
<h3><verse=Acts 15:19>Acts 15:19</verse></h3>




(8) Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned
to God:



(8) In indifferent matters, we may be patient with the weakness of our brethren with the end in view
that they may have time to be instructed.
#BCV:Acts 15:20
<h3><verse=Acts 15:20>Acts 15:20</verse></h3>



But that we write unto them, that they abstain from (i) pollutions of idols, and [from] fornication,
and [from] things strangled, and [from] blood.



(i) From sacrifices, or from feasts which were kept in idol's temples.
#BCV:Acts 15:22
<h3><verse=Acts 15:22>Acts 15:22</verse></h3>




(9) Then pleased it the apostles and elders, with the whole church, to send chosen men of their own
company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas; [namely], Judas surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief
men among the brethren:



(9) In a lawful synod, neither those who are appointed and chosen judges, appoint and determine
anything tyrannously or upon a lordly superiority, neither do the common multitude stir up disorder
against those who sit as judges by the word of God: and the like manner of doing things is also used
in proclaiming and ratifying those things which have been so determined and agreed upon.
#BCV:Acts 15:24
<h3><verse=Acts 15:24>Acts 15:24</verse></h3>




(10) Forasmuch as we have heard, that certain which (k) went out from us have troubled you with
words, (l) subverting your souls, saying, [Ye must] be circumcised, and keep the law: to whom we
gave no [such] commandment:



(10) The council of Jerusalem concludes that the ones who trouble men's consciences are they who
teach us to seek salvation in any other means than in Christ alone, apprehended by faith, no matter
where they come from, and whoever they pretend to be the author of their calling.

<page=2772>(k) From our congregation.



(l) A borrowed type of speech taken of those who pull down that which was built up: and it is a very
common metaphor in the scriptures, to say "the Church is built", for "the Church is planted and
established".
#BCV:Acts 15:28
<h3><verse=Acts 15:28>Acts 15:28</verse></h3>




(11) For it seemed good to the (n) Holy Ghost, and (o) to us, to lay upon you no greater burden
than these (p) necessary things;



(11) That is a lawful council, which the Holy Spirit rules.



(n) First they made mention of the Holy Spirit, so that it may not seem to be any man's work.



(o) Not that men have any authority of themselves, but to show the faithfulness that they used in
their ministry and labour.



(p) This was no absolute necessity, but in respect of the state of that time, so that the Gentiles and
the Jews might live together more peaceably, with less occasion to quarrel.
#BCV:Acts 15:29
<h3><verse=Acts 15:29>Acts 15:29</verse></h3>




(12) That ye abstain from meats offered to idols, and from blood, and from things strangled, and
from fornication: from which if ye keep yourselves, ye shall do well. Fare ye well.



(12) Charity is required even in indifferent matters.
#BCV:Acts 15:30
<h3><verse=Acts 15:30>Acts 15:30</verse></h3>




(13) So when they were dismissed, they came to Antioch: and when they had gathered the multitude
together, they delivered the epistle:



(13) It is required for all people to know certainly what to hold in matters of faith and religion, and
not that the Church by ignorance and knowing nothing, should depend upon the pleasure of a few.
#BCV:Acts 15:33
<h3><verse=Acts 15:33>Acts 15:33</verse></h3>



And after they had tarried [there] a space, they were let go in (q) peace from the brethren unto the
apostles.



(q) This is a Hebrew idiom, which is the same as saying, "as the brethren wished them all prosperous
success, and the church dismissed them with good leave."
#BCV:Acts 15:36
<h3><verse=Acts 15:36>Acts 15:36</verse></h3>


<page=2773>(14) And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every
city where we have preached the word of the Lord, [and see] how they do.



(14) Congregations or churches easily degenerate unless they are diligently watched over, and
therefore these apostles went to oversee the churches they had planted, and for this reason also
synods were instituted and appointed.
#BCV:Acts 15:37
<h3><verse=Acts 15:37>Acts 15:37</verse></h3>




(15) And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark.



(15) A lamentable example of discord between excellent men and very great friends, yet not because
of profane matters or their own private affairs, neither yet because of doctrine.
#BCV:Acts 15:39
<h3><verse=Acts 15:39>Acts 15:39</verse></h3>




(16) And (r) the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the
other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus;



(16) God uses the faults of his servants to the profit and building of the Church: yet we have to take
heed, even in the best matters, that we do not let our anger overflow.



(r) They were in great heat: but in this we have to consider the power of God's counsel, for by this
means it came to pass that the doctrine of the Gospel was spread into many places.

<h2>Acts 16</h2>

#BCV:Acts 16:1
<h3><verse=Acts 16:1>Acts 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=2774>Then (1) came he to Derbe and Lystra: and, behold, a certain disciple was there, named Timotheus,
the son of a certain woman, which was a (a) Jewess, and believed; but his father [was] a Greek:



(1) Paul himself does not receive Timothy into the ministry without sufficient testimony, and
permission of the brethren.



(a) Paul, in his second epistle to Timothy, commends the godliness of Timothy's mother and
grandmother.
#BCV:Acts 16:2
<h3><verse=Acts 16:2>Acts 16:2</verse></h3>



Which was (b) well reported of by the brethren that were at Lystra and Iconium.



(b) Both for his godliness and honesty.
#BCV:Acts 16:3
<h3><verse=Acts 16:3>Acts 16:3</verse></h3>




(2) Him would Paul have to go forth with him; and took and circumcised him because of the Jews
which were in those quarters: for they knew all that his father was a Greek.



(2) Timothy is circumcised, not simply for any necessity, but in respect of the time only, in order to
win the Jews.
#BCV:Acts 16:4
<h3><verse=Acts 16:4>Acts 16:4</verse></h3>




(3) And as they went through the cities, they delivered them the (c) decrees for to keep, that were
ordained of the apostles and elders which were at Jerusalem.



(3) Charity is to be observed in things indifferent so that regard is had both of the weak, and of the
peace of the Church.



(c) These decrees which he spoke of in the former chapter.
#BCV:Acts 16:6
<h3><verse=Acts 16:6>Acts 16:6</verse></h3>




(4) Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were (d) forbidden
of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia,



(4) God appoints certain and determinate times to open and set forth his truth, so that both the
election and the calling may proceed of grace.

<page=2775>(d) He does not show why they were forbidden, but only that they were forbidden, teaching us to
obey and not to enquire.
#BCV:Acts 16:9
<h3><verse=Acts 16:9>Acts 16:9</verse></h3>




(5) And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him,
saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us.



(5) They are the ministers of the Gospel by whom he helps those who are likely to perish.
#BCV:Acts 16:10
<h3><verse=Acts 16:10>Acts 16:10</verse></h3>




(6) And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly
gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them.



(6) The Saints did not easily believe every vision.
#BCV:Acts 16:13
<h3><verse=Acts 16:13>Acts 16:13</verse></h3>




(7) And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where (e) prayer was wont to be made;
and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted [thither].



(7) God begins his kingdom in Macedonia by the conversion of a woman, and so shows that there is
no exception of persons in the Gospel.



(e) Where they customarily assembled themselves.
#BCV:Acts 16:14
<h3><verse=Acts 16:14>Acts 16:14</verse></h3>




(8) And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped
God, heard [us]: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken
of Paul.



(8) The Lord opens the heart to hear the word which is preached.
#BCV:Acts 16:15
<h3><verse=Acts 16:15>Acts 16:15</verse></h3>




(9) And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought [us], saying, If ye have judged me
to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide [there]. And she constrained us.



(9) An example of a godly housewife.
#BCV:Acts 16:16
<h3><verse=Acts 16:16>Acts 16:16</verse></h3>


<page=2776>(10) And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of (f)
divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying:



(10) Satan transforms himself into an angel of light, and covets to enter by undermining, but Paul
openly stops him, and casts him out.



(f) This is a sure sign of the god Apollo, who would give answers to those that asked him.
#BCV:Acts 16:18
<h3><verse=Acts 16:18>Acts 16:18</verse></h3>



And this did she (g) many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command
thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.



(g) Paul made no haste to do this miracle, for he did all things only as he was led by the Spirit.
#BCV:Acts 16:19
<h3><verse=Acts 16:19>Acts 16:19</verse></h3>




(11) And when her masters saw that the hope of their gains was gone, they caught Paul and Silas,
and drew [them] into the marketplace unto the rulers,



(11) Covetousness of evil gain and of profit is an occasion for persecuting the truth. In the
meanwhile, God sparing Timothy, calls Paul and Silas as the stronger to battle.
#BCV:Acts 16:20
<h3><verse=Acts 16:20>Acts 16:20</verse></h3>




(12) And brought them to the magistrates, saying, These men, being Jews, do exceedingly trouble
our city,



(12) Covetousness pretends a desire for common peace and godliness.
#BCV:Acts 16:21
<h3><verse=Acts 16:21>Acts 16:21</verse></h3>




(13) And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans.



(13) It is an argument of the devil to use the authority of ancestors, though not distinguishing
exactly which ancestors.
#BCV:Acts 16:22
<h3><verse=Acts 16:22>Acts 16:22</verse></h3>




(14) And the multitude rose up together against them: and the magistrates rent off their clothes, and
commanded to beat [them].



(14) An example of evil magistrates, to obey the fury and rage of the people.
#BCV:Acts 16:24
<h3><verse=Acts 16:24>Acts 16:24</verse></h3>

#BCV:act 16:24
<h3><verse=act 16:24>act 16:24</verse></h3>



the stocks.



(h) Because he wanted to be more sure that they did not escape, he set them fast in the stocks.
#BCV:Acts 16:25
<h3><verse=Acts 16:25>Acts 16:25</verse></h3>




(15) And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard
them.



(15) The prayers of the godly do shake both heaven and earth.
#BCV:Acts 16:27
<h3><verse=Acts 16:27>Acts 16:27</verse></h3>




(16) And the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep, and seeing the prison doors open, he
drew out his sword, and would have killed himself, supposing that the prisoners had been fled.



(16) The merciful Lord, as often as he desires, draws men to life even through the midst of death,
and whereas they justly deserved great punishment, he shows them great mercy.
#BCV:Acts 16:28
<h3><verse=Acts 16:28>Acts 16:28</verse></h3>




(17) But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thyself no harm: for we are all here.



(17) In means which are especially extraordinary, we should not move our foot forward, unless God
goes before us.
#BCV:Acts 16:33
<h3><verse=Acts 16:33>Acts 16:33</verse></h3>




(18) And he took them the same hour of the night, and washed [their] stripes; and was baptized, he
and all his, straightway.



(18) God with the very same hand wounds and heals when it pleases him.
#BCV:Acts 16:35
<h3><verse=Acts 16:35>Acts 16:35</verse></h3>




(19) And when it was day, the magistrates sent the serjeants, saying, Let those men go.



(19) Shame and confusion is in due time the reward of wicked and unjust magistrates.
#BCV:Acts 16:37
<h3><verse=Acts 16:37>Acts 16:37</verse></h3>


<page=2778>(20) But Paul said unto them, They have beaten us openly uncondemned, being Romans, and have
cast [us] into prison; and now do they thrust us out privily? nay verily; but let them come themselves
and fetch us out.



(20) We must not render injury for injury, and yet nonetheless it is lawful for us to use such helps as
God gives us, to bridle the outrageousness of the wicked, so that they do not hurt others in a similar
way.
#BCV:Acts 16:38
<h3><verse=Acts 16:38>Acts 16:38</verse></h3>




(21) And the serjeants told these words unto the magistrates: and they feared, when they heard that
they were Romans.



(21) The wicked are not moved with the fear of God, but with the fear of men: and by that means
also God provides for his, when it is needed.
#BCV:Acts 16:40
<h3><verse=Acts 16:40>Acts 16:40</verse></h3>




(22) And they went out of the prison, and entered into [the house of] Lydia: and when they had seen
the brethren, they comforted them, and departed.



(22) We may avoid dangers in such a way that we never neglect our duty.

<h2>Acts 17</h2>

#BCV:Acts 17:1
<h3><verse=Acts 17:1>Acts 17:1</verse></h3>

<page=2779>Now (1) when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica,
where was a synagogue of the Jews:



(1) The casting out of Silas and Paul was the saving of many others.
#BCV:Acts 17:3
<h3><verse=Acts 17:3>Acts 17:3</verse></h3>




(2) Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and
that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.



(2) Christ is therefore the mediator, because he was crucified and rose again: and he is certainly not
to be rejected because the cross is shameful.
#BCV:Acts 17:5
<h3><verse=Acts 17:5>Acts 17:5</verse></h3>




(3) But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain (a) lewd fellows of
the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of
Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.



(3) Although the zeal of the unfaithful seems ever so virtuous, yet at length it is found to have
neither truth nor fairness. Yet the wicked cannot do what they wish, for even among themselves
God stirs up some, whose help he uses for the deliverance of his own.



(a) Certain companions which do nothing but walk the streets, wicked men, to be hired for every
man's money to do any mischief, such as we commonly call the rabble and very cesspools and
dunghill knaves of all towns and cities.
#BCV:Acts 17:6
<h3><verse=Acts 17:6>Acts 17:6</verse></h3>



And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city,
crying, These that have turned the (b) world upside down are come hither also;



(b) Into whatever country and place they come, they cause sedition and tumult.
#BCV:Acts 17:9
<h3><verse=Acts 17:9>Acts 17:9</verse></h3>



And when they had taken (c) security of Jason, and of the other, they let them go.



(c) When Jason had put them in good assurance that they would appear.
#BCV:Acts 17:10
<h3><verse=Acts 17:10>Acts 17:10</verse></h3>

#BCV:act 17:10
<h3><verse=act 17:10>act 17:10</verse></h3>



went into the synagogue of the Jews.



(4) That is indeed the wisdom of the Spirit which always sets the glory of God before itself as a
mark with which it directs itself, and never wavers from it.
#BCV:Acts 17:11
<h3><verse=Acts 17:11>Acts 17:11</verse></h3>




(5) These were more (d) noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all
readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.



(5) The Lord sets out in one short period of time, and in one people, different examples of his
unsearchable wisdom to cause them to fear him.



(d) He compares the Jews with the Jews.
#BCV:Acts 17:13
<h3><verse=Acts 17:13>Acts 17:13</verse></h3>




(6) But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul
at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people.



(6) Satan has his who are zealous for him, and those who one would least suspect.
#BCV:Acts 17:14
<h3><verse=Acts 17:14>Acts 17:14</verse></h3>




(7) And then immediately the brethren sent away Paul to go as it were to the sea: but Silas and
Timotheus abode there still.



(7) There is neither counsel, nor fury, nor madness against the Lord.
#BCV:Acts 17:15
<h3><verse=Acts 17:15>Acts 17:15</verse></h3>




(8) And they that conducted Paul (e) brought him unto Athens: and receiving a commandment unto
Silas and Timotheus for to come to him with all speed, they departed.



(8) The sheep of Christ also watch their pastor's health and safety, but yet in the Lord.



(e) It is not for nothing that the Jews of Berea were so commended, for they brought Paul safe from
Macedonia to Athens, and there is in between these two places all of Thessalia, and Boeotia, and
Attica.
#BCV:Acts 17:16
<h3><verse=Acts 17:16>Acts 17:16</verse></h3>


<page=2781>(9) Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was (f) stirred in him, when he saw the city
wholly given to (g) idolatry.



(9) In comparing the wisdom of God with man's wisdom, men scoff and mock at that which they
do not understand: and God uses the curiosity of fools to gather together his elect.



(f) He could not forbear.



(g) Slavishly given to idolatry: Pausanias writes that there were more idols in Athens than in all
Greece; yea they had altars dedicated to Shame, and Fame, and Lust, whom they made goddesses.
#BCV:Acts 17:17
<h3><verse=Acts 17:17>Acts 17:17</verse></h3>



Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the
market daily with (h) them that met with him.



(h) Whoever Paul met with that would allow him to talk with him, he reasoned with him, so
thoroughly did he burn with the zeal of God's glory.
#BCV:Acts 17:18
<h3><verse=Acts 17:18>Acts 17:18</verse></h3>




(10) Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some
said, What will this (i) babbler say? other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods:
because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection.



(10) Two special sects of the philosophers set themselves against Christ: the Epicures, who mock
and scoff at religion: and the Stoics, who decide religious matters according to their own thinking.



(i) Literally, "seed gatherer": a borrowed kind of speech taken from birds which spoil corn, and is
applied to those who without any skill blurt out the knowledge which they have gotten by hearing
this man and that man.
#BCV:Acts 17:19
<h3><verse=Acts 17:19>Acts 17:19</verse></h3>



And they took him, and brought him unto (k) Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new
doctrine, whereof thou speakest, [is]?



(k) This was a place called, as one would say, Mars hill, where the judges sat who were called
Areopagita upon important matters, who in ancient time arraigned Socrates, and afterward
condemned him of impiety.
#BCV:Acts 17:21
<h3><verse=Acts 17:21>Acts 17:21</verse></h3>




(11) (For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either
to tell, or to hear some new thing.)

<page=2782>(11) The wisdom of man is vanity.
#BCV:Acts 17:22
<h3><verse=Acts 17:22>Acts 17:22</verse></h3>




(12) Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said, [Ye] men of Athens, I perceive that in all
things ye are too (l) superstitious.



(12) The idolaters themselves provide most strong and forcible arguments against their own
superstition.



(l) To stand in too foolish and slavish a fear of your gods.
#BCV:Acts 17:23
<h3><verse=Acts 17:23>Acts 17:23</verse></h3>



For as I passed by, and beheld your (m) devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE (n)
UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.



(m) Whatever men worship for religion's sake, that we call religion.



(n) Pausanias in his Atticis makes mention of the altar which the Athenians had dedicated to
unknown gods: and Laertius in his Epimenides makes mention of an altar that had no name entitled
upon it.
#BCV:Acts 17:24
<h3><verse=Acts 17:24>Acts 17:24</verse></h3>




(13) God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth,
dwelleth not in temples made with hands;



(13) It is a most foolish and vain thing to compare the Creator with the creature, to limit him within
a place who can be comprehended in no place, and to think to allure him with gifts, from whom all
men have received all things whatever they have: and these are the fountains of all idolatry.
#BCV:Acts 17:26
<h3><verse=Acts 17:26>Acts 17:26</verse></h3>




(14) And hath made of (o) one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth,
and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;



(14) God is wonderful in all his works, but especially in the work of man: not that we should stand
amazed at his works, but that we should lift our eyes to the workman.



(o) Of one stock and one beginning.
#BCV:Acts 17:27
<h3><verse=Acts 17:27>Acts 17:27</verse></h3>

<page=2783>That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might (p) feel after him, and find him, though he be
not far from every one of us:



(p) For as blind men we could not seek out God except by groping, before the true light came and
enlightened the world.
#BCV:Acts 17:29
<h3><verse=Acts 17:29>Acts 17:29</verse></h3>



Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like
unto gold, or silver, or stone, (q) graven by art and man's device.



(q) Which things (gold, silver, and stones) are custom engraved as much as a man's mind can devise,
for men will not worship those things as they are, unless by some art it has formed into an image of
some sort.
#BCV:Acts 17:30
<h3><verse=Acts 17:30>Acts 17:30</verse></h3>




(15) And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to
repent:



(15) The oldness of the error does not excuse those that err, but it commends and sets forth the
patience of God, who nonetheless will be a just judge to those who condemn him.
#BCV:Acts 17:31
<h3><verse=Acts 17:31>Acts 17:31</verse></h3>



Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by [that] man
whom he hath ordained; [whereof] he hath given (r) assurance unto all [men], in that he hath raised
him from the dead.



(r) By declaring Christ to be the judge of the world through the resurrection from the dead.
#BCV:Acts 17:32
<h3><verse=Acts 17:32>Acts 17:32</verse></h3>




(16) And when they heard of the resurrection of the dead, some mocked: and others said, We will
hear thee again of this [matter].



(16) Men, to show forth their vanity, are affected and moved differently by the very same Gospel,
which nonetheless does not cease to be effectual in the elect.

<h2>Acts 18</h2>

#BCV:Acts 18:1
<h3><verse=Acts 18:1>Acts 18:1</verse></h3>

<page=2784>After (1) these things Paul departed from Athens, and came to Corinth;



(1) The true ministers are so far from seeking their own profit, that they willingly depart from what
is rightfully theirs, rather than hindering the course of the Gospel in the slightest way.
#BCV:Acts 18:2
<h3><verse=Acts 18:2>Acts 18:2</verse></h3>



And found a certain Jew named Aquila, born in Pontus, lately come from Italy, with his wife Priscilla;



(because that (a) Claudius had commanded all Jews to depart from Rome:) and came unto them.



(a) Suetonius records that Rome banished the Jews because they were never at rest, and that because
of Christ.
#BCV:Acts 18:4
<h3><verse=Acts 18:4>Acts 18:4</verse></h3>




(2) And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and (b) persuaded the Jews and the Greeks.



(2) The truth ought always to be freely uttered, yet nonetheless the doctrine may be moderated in
accordance with the hearers, so that they are most profited.



(b) Exhorted so that he persuaded, and that is what the word signifies.
#BCV:Acts 18:5
<h3><verse=Acts 18:5>Acts 18:5</verse></h3>



And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul (c) was pressed in the spirit, and
testified to the Jews [that] Jesus [was] Christ.



(c) Was very much grieved in mind: by which is signified the great earnestness of his mind, which
was greatly moved: for Paul was so zealous that he completely forgot himself, and with a wonderful
courage gave himself to preach Christ.
#BCV:Acts 18:6
<h3><verse=Acts 18:6>Acts 18:6</verse></h3>




(3) And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook [his] raiment, and said unto
them, Your (d) blood [be] upon your own heads; I [am] clean: from henceforth I will go unto the
Gentiles.



(3) Although we have tried all possible means, and yet in vain, we must not stop our work, but
forsake the rebellious, and go to those that are more obedient.

<page=2785>(d) This is a type of speech taken from the Hebrews, by which he means that the Jews are the cause
of their own destruction, and as for him, that he is without fault in forsaking them and going to
other nations.
#BCV:Acts 18:9
<h3><verse=Acts 18:9>Acts 18:9</verse></h3>




(4) Then spake the Lord to Paul in the night by a vision, Be not afraid, but speak, and hold not thy
peace:



(4) God does confirm and maintain the steadfastness of his servants.
#BCV:Acts 18:11
<h3><verse=Acts 18:11>Acts 18:11</verse></h3>



And he (e) continued [there] a year and six months, teaching the word of God among them.



(e) Literally, "sat", whereupon they in former time took the name of their bishop's seat: but Paul sat,
that is, continued teaching the word of God: and this type of seat does not belong to those who
never took their seats with a mind to teach in them.
#BCV:Acts 18:12
<h3><verse=Acts 18:12>Acts 18:12</verse></h3>




(5) And when Gallio was the deputy of (f) Achaia, the Jews made insurrection with one accord
against Paul, and brought him to the judgment seat,



(5) The wicked are never weary of doing evil, but the Lord wonderfully mocks their endeavours.



(f) That is, of Greece, yet the Romans did not call him deputy of Greece, but of Achaia, because the
Romans brought the Greeks into subjection by the Achaians, who in those days were Princes of
Greece, as Pausanias records.
#BCV:Acts 18:14
<h3><verse=Acts 18:14>Acts 18:14</verse></h3>



And when Paul was now about to open [his] mouth, Gallio said unto the Jews, If it were a matter of
wrong or wicked lewdness, O [ye] Jews, (g) reason would that I should bear with you:



(g) As much as I rightly could.
#BCV:Acts 18:15
<h3><verse=Acts 18:15>Acts 18:15</verse></h3>



But if it be a question of (h) words and (i) names, and [of] your law, look ye [to it]; for I will be no
judge of such [matters].



(h) As if a man has not spoken well, as judged by your religion.

<page=2786>(i) For this profane man thinks that the controversy of religion is merely a fight about words, and
over nothing important.
#BCV:Acts 18:18
<h3><verse=Acts 18:18>Acts 18:18</verse></h3>




(6) And Paul [after this] tarried [there] yet a good while, and then took his leave of the brethren, and
sailed thence into Syria, and with him Priscilla and Aquila; (k) having shorn [his] head in (l) Cenchrea:
for he had a vow.



(6) Paul is made all to all, to win all to Christ.



(k) That is, Paul.



(l) Cenchrea was a haven of the Corinthians.
#BCV:Acts 18:20
<h3><verse=Acts 18:20>Acts 18:20</verse></h3>




(7) When they desired [him] to tarry longer time with them, he consented not;



(7) The apostles were carried about not by the will of man, but by the leading of the Holy Spirit.
#BCV:Acts 18:21
<h3><verse=Acts 18:21>Acts 18:21</verse></h3>



But bade them farewell, saying, I must by all means keep this feast that cometh in Jerusalem: but I
will return again unto you, (m) if God will. And he sailed from Ephesus.



(m) So we should promise nothing without this clause, for we do not know what the following day
will bring forth.
#BCV:Acts 18:24
<h3><verse=Acts 18:24>Acts 18:24</verse></h3>




(8) And a certain Jew named Apollos, born at Alexandria, an eloquent man, [and] (n) mighty in the
scriptures, came to Ephesus.



(8) Apollos, a godly and learned man, does not refuse to profit in the school of a base and abject
handicraftsman, and also of a woman: and so becomes and excellent minister of the Church.



(n) Very well instructed in the knowledge of the scriptures.
#BCV:Acts 18:26
<h3><verse=Acts 18:26>Acts 18:26</verse></h3>



And he began to speak boldly in the synagogue: whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they
took him unto [them], and expounded unto him the (o) way of God more perfectly.



(o) The way that leads to God.
#BCV:Acts 18:27
<h3><verse=Acts 18:27>Acts 18:27</verse></h3>

<page=2787>And when he was disposed to pass into Achaia, the brethren wrote, exhorting the disciples to
receive him: who, when he was come, helped them much which had believed through (p) grace:



(p) Through God's gracious favour, or by those excellent gifts which God had bestowed upon him.

<h2>Acts 19</h2>

#BCV:Acts 19:1
<h3><verse=Acts 19:1>Acts 19:1</verse></h3>

<page=2788>And (1) it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper
coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples,



(1) Paul, not being offended at the rudeness of the Ephesians, plants a church amongst them.
#BCV:Acts 19:2
<h3><verse=Acts 19:2>Acts 19:2</verse></h3>



He said unto them, Have ye received the (a) Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him,
We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost.



(a) Those excellent gifts of the Holy Spirit, which were in the Church in those days.
#BCV:Acts 19:3
<h3><verse=Acts 19:3>Acts 19:3</verse></h3>




(2) And he said unto them, Unto (b) what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto (c) John's
baptism.



(2) John only began to instruct the disciples whom Christ would make perfect.



(b) In what doctrine then are you taught and instructed?



(c) To be baptized into John's baptism is to profess the doctrine which John preached and to be
identified with his baptism.
#BCV:Acts 19:9
<h3><verse=Acts 19:9>Acts 19:9</verse></h3>




(3) But when divers were hardened, and believed not, but spake evil of that (d) way before the
multitude, he departed from them, and separated the disciples, disputing daily in the school of one



(e) Tyrannus.



(3) For a man to separate himself and others from infidels who are utterly desperate, is not to divide
the Church, but rather to unite it, and make it one.



(d) By this word "way", the Hebrews understand any type of life, and here it is taken for Christianity.



(e) This was a man's proper name.
#BCV:Acts 19:13
<h3><verse=Acts 19:13>Acts 19:13</verse></h3>




(4) Then certain of the vagabond Jews, (f) exorcists, took upon them to call over them which had
evil spirits the name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus whom Paul preacheth.

<page=2789>(4) Satan is forced to give witness against himself.



(f) So were they called who cast out demons by forcing them to leave in the name of God: and in
the beginning of the Church, those who had the gift of working miracles, and laid their hands on
those that were possessed with demons, were called the same.
#BCV:Acts 19:16
<h3><verse=Acts 19:16>Acts 19:16</verse></h3>



And the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, and overcame them, and (g) prevailed
against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded.



(g) He prevailed against them, though they struggled ever so much.
#BCV:Acts 19:18
<h3><verse=Acts 19:18>Acts 19:18</verse></h3>




(5) And many that believed came, and (h) confessed, and shewed their deeds.



(5) Conjuring and sorcery is condemned by open testimony, and by the authority of the apostle.



(h) Confessed their errors, and openly detested them, being terrified with the fear of the judgment
of God: and how does this compare to confession to a priest?
#BCV:Acts 19:19
<h3><verse=Acts 19:19>Acts 19:19</verse></h3>



Many of them also which used curious arts brought their books together, and burned them before
all [men]: and they counted the price of them, and found [it] (i) fifty thousand [pieces] of silver.



(i) Those that give the lowest estimate, reckon it to be about eight hundred pounds English.
#BCV:Acts 19:21
<h3><verse=Acts 19:21>Acts 19:21</verse></h3>




(6) After these things were ended, Paul purposed in the (k) spirit, when he had passed through
Macedonia and Achaia, to go to Jerusalem, saying, After I have been there, I must also see Rome.



(6) Paul is never weary.



(k) By the motion of God's Spirit: therefore we may not say that Paul ran rashly unto death, but as
the Spirit of God led him.
#BCV:Acts 19:23
<h3><verse=Acts 19:23>Acts 19:23</verse></h3>




(7) And the same time there arose no small stir about that way.



(7) Gain cloaked with a show of religion is the very cause why idolatry is strongly and stubbornly
defended.
#BCV:Acts 19:24
<h3><verse=Acts 19:24>Acts 19:24</verse></h3>

<page=2790>For a certain [man] named Demetrius, a silversmith, which made silver (l) shrines for Diana, brought
no small gain unto the craftsmen;



(l) These were special counterfeit temples with Diana's picture in them, which those who
worshipped her bought.
#BCV:Acts 19:27
<h3><verse=Acts 19:27>Acts 19:27</verse></h3>



So that not only (m) this our craft is in danger to be set at nought; but also that the temple of the
great goddess Diana should be despised, and her magnificence should be destroyed, whom all Asia
and the world worshippeth.



(m) As if he said, "If Paul goes on in this way as he has begun, to confuse the opinion which men
have of Diana's image, all of our gain will come to nothing."
#BCV:Acts 19:31
<h3><verse=Acts 19:31>Acts 19:31</verse></h3>




(8) And certain of the chief of Asia, which were his friends, sent unto him, desiring [him] that he
would not adventure himself into the theatre.



(8) There ought to be in all Christians, and especially in the ministers, an invincible steadfastness
which may not by any storms or assaults be overcome, which nonetheless must modestly allow itself
to be governed by wisdom.
#BCV:Acts 19:34
<h3><verse=Acts 19:34>Acts 19:34</verse></h3>




(9) But when they knew that he was a Jew, all with one voice about the space of two hours cried out,
Great [is] Diana of the Ephesians.



(9) Instead of reason, the idolaters are sufficiently contented with their own madness and outcries,
and those are the greatest defence that they have.
#BCV:Acts 19:35
<h3><verse=Acts 19:35>Acts 19:35</verse></h3>




(10) And when the townclerk had appeased the people, he said, [Ye] men of Ephesus, what man is
there that knoweth not how that the city of the Ephesians is a worshipper of the great goddess
Diana, and of the [image] which (n) fell down from Jupiter?



(10) An example of a political man who redeems peace and quietness with lies, which Paul would
have never done.



(n) The Ephesians believed superstitiously that the image of Diana came down to them from heaven.
#BCV:Acts 19:38
<h3><verse=Acts 19:38>Acts 19:38</verse></h3>

<page=2791>Wherefore if Demetrius, and the craftsmen which are with him, have a (o) matter against any man,
the (p) law is open, and there are (q) deputies: let them implead one another.



(o) Have anything to accuse any man of.



(p) For there are certain days appointed for civil causes and matters of judgment, and the deputies
sit on those days.



(q) By the deputies are meant also the deputies' substitutes, that is, those who sat for them.
#BCV:Acts 19:39
<h3><verse=Acts 19:39>Acts 19:39</verse></h3>



But if ye enquire any thing concerning other matters, it shall be determined in a (r) lawful assembly.



(r) He speaks of a lawful assembly not only to speak against the disordered tumult of the people,
but also against all meeting and coming together which was not by order: for there were certain days
appointed to call people together in.

<h2>Acts 20</h2>

#BCV:Acts 20:1
<h3><verse=Acts 20:1>Acts 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=2792>And (1) after the uproar was ceased, Paul called unto [him] the disciples, and embraced [them], and
departed for to go into Macedonia.



(1) Paul departs from Ephesus by the consent of the church, not to be idle or at rest, but to take
pains in another place.
#BCV:Acts 20:2
<h3><verse=Acts 20:2>Acts 20:2</verse></h3>



And when he had gone over those parts, and had given them (a) much exhortation, he came into
Greece,



(a) For after so great trouble, there was need of much exhortation.
#BCV:Acts 20:3
<h3><verse=Acts 20:3>Acts 20:3</verse></h3>




(2) And [there] abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail
into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia.



(2) A perverse zeal is the guider and instructor to murderers: and we are not excluded by the wisdom
of God to prevent the endeavours of wicked men.
#BCV:Acts 20:7
<h3><verse=Acts 20:7>Acts 20:7</verse></h3>




(3) And upon the (b) first [day] of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul
preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.



(3) Assemblies in the night-time cannot be justly condemned, neither should they be, when the cause
is good.



(b) Literally, "the first day of the Sabbath", that is, upon the Lord's day: so that by this place, and by



(<bcv=1Co 16:2>Co1 16:2</bcv>) we properly understand that in those days the Christians habitually assembled themselves
solemnly together upon that day.
#BCV:Acts 20:8
<h3><verse=Acts 20:8>Acts 20:8</verse></h3>




(4) And there were many lights in the upper chamber, where they were gathered together.



(4) The devil, taking care to trouble the Church with a great offence, gives Paul a singular occasion
to confirm the Gospel
#BCV:Acts 20:16
<h3><verse=Acts 20:16>Acts 20:16</verse></h3>

#BCV:act 20:16
<h3><verse=act 20:16>act 20:16</verse></h3>



hasted, if it were possible for him, to be at Jerusalem the day of Pentecost.



(5) Paul, an earnest and diligent follower of Christ, making haste to his bonds without any ceasing or
stopping in his race, first of all as it were makes his testament, wherein he gives an account of his
former life, defends the doctrine which he taught, and exhorts the pastors of the church to
persevere and go forward with continuance in their office.
#BCV:Acts 20:17
<h3><verse=Acts 20:17>Acts 20:17</verse></h3>



And from (c) Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the church.



(c) According as the situation of these places is set forth, the distance between Ephesus and Miletus
was almost 50 miles or 80 km.
#BCV:Acts 20:18
<h3><verse=Acts 20:18>Acts 20:18</verse></h3>




(6) And when they were come to him, he said unto them, Ye know, from the first day that I came
into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons,



(6) A graphic image of a true pastor.
#BCV:Acts 20:20
<h3><verse=Acts 20:20>Acts 20:20</verse></h3>



[And] how I kept (d) back nothing that was profitable [unto you], but have shewed you, and have
taught you publickly, and from house to house,



(d) I did not refrain form speaking, neither did I conceal my motives in any way at all, either for fear
or for wicked gain.
#BCV:Acts 20:22
<h3><verse=Acts 20:22>Acts 20:22</verse></h3>




(7) And now, behold, I go (e) bound in the spirit unto Jerusalem, not knowing the things that shall
befall me there:



(7) He testifies that he goes to his imprisonment by the commandment of God.



(e) He calls the guiding direction of the Holy Spirit, who forced him to take his journey to Jerusalem,
the bond of the Sprit, whom he followed with all his heart.
#BCV:Acts 20:26
<h3><verse=Acts 20:26>Acts 20:26</verse></h3>



Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I [am] (f) pure from the blood of all [men].

<page=2794>(f) If you perish, yet there will fault with me.

See<bcv=Acts 18:6> Act 18:6</bcv>
#BCV:Acts 20:27
<h3><verse=Acts 20:27>Acts 20:27</verse></h3>




(8) For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.



(8) The doctrine of the apostles is most perfect and absolute.
#BCV:Acts 20:28
<h3><verse=Acts 20:28>Acts 20:28</verse></h3>



Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made
you overseers, to (g) feed the church of God, which (h) he hath purchased with (i) his own blood.



(g) To keep it, to feed and govern it.



(h) A notable sentence for Christ's Godhead: which shows plainly in his person, how that by reason
of the joining together of the two natures in his own person, that which is proper to one is spoken
of the other, being taken as deriving from one another, and not in the original: which in old time the
godly fathers termed a communicating or fellowship of properties or attributes, that is to say, a
making common of that to two, which belongs but to one.



(i) The words "his own" show forth the excellency of that blood.
#BCV:Acts 20:29
<h3><verse=Acts 20:29>Acts 20:29</verse></h3>




(9) For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing
the flock.



(9) A prophecy of pastors that would immediately degenerate into wolves, against those who boast
and brag only of a succession of persons.
#BCV:Acts 20:30
<h3><verse=Acts 20:30>Acts 20:30</verse></h3>



Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to (k) draw away disciples after
them.



(k) This is great misery, to want the presence of such a shepherd, but it is a greater misery to have
wolves enter in.
#BCV:Acts 20:32
<h3><verse=Acts 20:32>Acts 20:32</verse></h3>




(10) And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build
you up, and to give you an (l) inheritance among all them which are sanctified.

<page=2795>(10) The power of God, and his free promises revealed in his word, are the props and upholders of
the ministry of the Gospel.



(l) As children, and therefore an inheritance of free love and good will.
#BCV:Acts 20:33
<h3><verse=Acts 20:33>Acts 20:33</verse></h3>




(11) I have coveted no man's silver, or gold, or apparel.



(11) Pastors must before all things beware of covetousness.
#BCV:Acts 20:35
<h3><verse=Acts 20:35>Acts 20:35</verse></h3>



I have shewed you all things, how that so labouring ye ought (m) to support the weak, and to
remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he said, It is more blessed to give than to receive.



(m) As it were by reaching out the hand to those who otherwise are about to slip and fall away, and
so to steady them.
#BCV:Acts 20:37
<h3><verse=Acts 20:37>Acts 20:37</verse></h3>




(12) And they all wept sore, and fell on Paul's neck, and kissed him,



(12) The Gospel does not take away natural affections, but rules and bridles them in good order.

<h2>Acts 21</h2>

#BCV:Acts 21:1
<h3><verse=Acts 21:1>Acts 21:1</verse></h3>

<page=2796>And (1) it came to pass, that after we were gotten from them, and had launched, we came with a
straight course unto Coos, and the [day] following unto Rhodes, and from thence unto Patara:



(1) Not only ordinary men, but even our friends, and such as are endued with the Spirit of God,
sometimes go about to hinder the course of our calling: but it is our part to go forward without any
stopping or staggering, after we are sure of our calling from God.
#BCV:Acts 21:4
<h3><verse=Acts 21:4>Acts 21:4</verse></h3>



And finding disciples, we tarried there seven days: who said to Paul through the (a) Spirit, that he
should not go up to Jerusalem.



(a) They foretold through the Spirit what dangers were about to befall Paul, and this they did as
prophets: but they misdirected him away from Jerusalem because of a fleshly affection.
#BCV:Acts 21:8
<h3><verse=Acts 21:8>Acts 21:8</verse></h3>



And the next [day] we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we
entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was [one] of the (b) seven; and abode with
him.



(b) He speaks of the seven deacons which he mentioned before in (<bcv=Acts 6:1-7>Act 6:1-7</bcv>).
#BCV:Acts 21:9
<h3><verse=Acts 21:9>Acts 21:9</verse></h3>



And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did (c) prophesy.



(c) They had a peculiar gift of foretelling things to come.
#BCV:Acts 21:14
<h3><verse=Acts 21:14>Acts 21:14</verse></h3>




(2) And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.



(2) The will of God bridles all affections in those who earnestly seek the glory of God.
#BCV:Acts 21:19
<h3><verse=Acts 21:19>Acts 21:19</verse></h3>


<page=2797>(3) And when he had saluted them, he declared particularly what things God had wrought among
the Gentiles by his ministry.



(3) God is to be praised, who is the author of all good sayings and deeds.
#BCV:Acts 21:20
<h3><verse=Acts 21:20>Acts 21:20</verse></h3>




(4) And when they heard [it], they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how
many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law:



(4) In things indifferent (of which sort the traditions of the Pharisees were not, but rather the
ceremonies of the Law, until the time when Christian liberty was more fully revealed to the Jews)
charity exhorts us to conform or apply ourselves willingly so far as we may, to our brethren who do
not stubbornly and maliciously resist the truth (but are not thoroughly instructed), especially if the
question pertains to a whole multitude.
#BCV:Acts 21:24
<h3><verse=Acts 21:24>Acts 21:24</verse></h3>



Them take, and (d) purify thyself with them, and (e) be at charges with them, that they may shave
[their] heads: and all may know that those things, whereof they were informed concerning thee, are
nothing; but [that] thou thyself also walkest orderly, and keepest the law.



(d) That is, consecrate thyself: for he does not speak here of the unclean, but of those who are
subject to the vow of the Nazarites.



(e) That it may be known that you were not only present at the vow, but also a main participator in it:
and therefore it is said afterwards that Paul declared the days of purification: for although the
offerings for the Nazarites offerings were appointed, yet they might add somewhat unto them; see



(<bcv=Num 6:21>Num 6:21</bcv>).
#BCV:Acts 21:26
<h3><verse=Acts 21:26>Acts 21:26</verse></h3>



Then Paul took the men, and the next day purifying himself with them entered into the temple, (f)
to signify the accomplishment of the days of purification, until that an offering should be offered
for every one of them.



(f) The priests were to be informed of the accomplishment of the days of the purification, because
there were sacrifices to be offered the same day that their vow was ended.
#BCV:Acts 21:27
<h3><verse=Acts 21:27>Acts 21:27</verse></h3>




(5) And when the seven days were almost ended, the Jews which were of Asia, when they saw him in
the temple, stirred up all the people, and laid hands on him,

<page=2798>(5) A preposterous zeal is the cause of great confusion and great troubles.
#BCV:Acts 21:31
<h3><verse=Acts 21:31>Acts 21:31</verse></h3>




(6) And as they went about to kill him, tidings came unto the chief captain of the band, that all
Jerusalem was in an uproar.



(6) God finds some even amongst the wicked and profane themselves, to hinder the endeavours of
the rest.
#BCV:Acts 21:38
<h3><verse=Acts 21:38>Acts 21:38</verse></h3>



Art not thou that (g) Egyptian, which before these days madest an uproar, and leddest out into the
wilderness four thousand men that were murderers?



(g) Concerning this Egyptian who assembled thirty thousand men, read Josephus, book 2, chap. 12.

<h2>Acts 22</h2>

#BCV:Acts 22:3
<h3><verse=Acts 22:3>Acts 22:3</verse></h3>


<page=2799>(1) I am verily a man [which am] a Jew, born in Tarsus, [a city] in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city at
the (a) feet of Gamaliel, [and] taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and
was zealous toward God, as ye all are this day.



(1) Paul, making a short declaration of his former life, proves both his calling and doctrine to be
from God.



(a) That is, his daily hearer: the reason of this speech is this: those who teach commonly sit in the
higher place, speaking to their students who sit upon benches beneath, and therefore he says "at the
feet of Gamaliel".
#BCV:Acts 22:20
<h3><verse=Acts 22:20>Acts 22:20</verse></h3>



And when the blood of thy martyr Stephen was shed, I also was standing by, and consenting unto
his death, and kept the raiment of them that (b) slew him.



(b) This is properly spoken, for Steven was murdered by a bunch of cutthroats, not by order of
justice, but by open force: for at that time the Jews could not put any man to death by law.
#BCV:Acts 22:22
<h3><verse=Acts 22:22>Acts 22:22</verse></h3>




(2) And they gave him audience unto this word, and [then] lifted up their voices, and said, Away with
such a [fellow] from the earth: for it is not fit that he should live.



(2) Resolute and stubborn pride will neither embrace the truth itself, neither allow others to receive
it.
#BCV:Acts 22:23
<h3><verse=Acts 22:23>Acts 22:23</verse></h3>



And as they (c) cried out, and cast off [their] clothes, and threw dust into the air,



(c) The description of a seditious tumult, and of a foolish and mad multitude.
#BCV:Acts 22:24
<h3><verse=Acts 22:24>Acts 22:24</verse></h3>




(3) The chief captain commanded him to be brought into the castle, and bade that he should be
examined by scourging; that he might know wherefore they cried so against him.



(3) The wisdom of the flesh does not consider what is just, but what is profitable, and in addition
takes into account the profit that can be gained, according as it presently appears.
#BCV:Acts 22:25
<h3><verse=Acts 22:25>Acts 22:25</verse></h3>


<page=2800>(4) And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said unto the centurion that stood by, Is it lawful for
you to scourge a man that is a Roman, and uncondemned?



(4) There is no reason why we may not use those lawful means which God gives us in order to repel
or prevent an injury.
#BCV:Acts 22:29
<h3><verse=Acts 22:29>Acts 22:29</verse></h3>



Then straightway they departed from him which should have examined him: and the chief captain
also was afraid, after he knew that he was (d) a Roman, and because he had bound him.



(d) Not by nation, but by the law of his city of birth.

<h2>Acts 23</h2>

#BCV:Acts 23:1
<h3><verse=Acts 23:1>Acts 23:1</verse></h3>

<page=2801>And (1) Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, Men [and] brethren, I have lived in all good
conscience before God until this day.



(1) Paul, against the false accusations of his enemies, displays a clear conscience, for proof of which
he repeats the whole course of his life.
#BCV:Acts 23:2
<h3><verse=Acts 23:2>Acts 23:2</verse></h3>




(2) And the high priest Ananias commanded them that stood by him to smite him on the mouth.



(2) Hypocrites are forced at length to betray themselves by their violence.
#BCV:Acts 23:3
<h3><verse=Acts 23:3>Acts 23:3</verse></h3>




(3) Then said Paul unto him, God shall smite thee, [thou] (b) whited wall: for sittest thou to judge
me after the law, and commandest me to be smitten (c) contrary to the law?



(3) It is lawful for us to complain of injuries, and to summon the wicked to the judgment seat of
God, but yet we must do it without hatred, and with a quiet and peaceable mind.



(b) This is a vehement and severe speech, but yet not reproachful: for the godly may speak severely,
and yet be void of the bitter affection of a severe and angry mind.



(c) For the Law commands the judge to hear the person that is accused patiently, and to pronounce
the sentence judiciously.
#BCV:Acts 23:5
<h3><verse=Acts 23:5>Acts 23:5</verse></h3>




(4) Then said Paul, I wist not, brethren, that he was the high priest: for it is written, Thou shalt not
speak evil of the ruler of thy people.



(4) We must willingly and from the heart give honour to magistrates, although they are tyrants.
#BCV:Acts 23:6
<h3><verse=Acts 23:6>Acts 23:6</verse></h3>




(5) But when Paul perceived that the one part were Sadducees, and the other Pharisees, he cried out
in the council, Men [and] brethren, I am a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee: of the hope and
resurrection of the dead I am called in question.



(5) We may sometimes lawfully set the wicked against themselves, so that they stop assaulting us, in
order that the truth is not hindered.
#BCV:Acts 23:7
<h3><verse=Acts 23:7>Acts 23:7</verse></h3>


<page=2802>(6) And when he had so said, there arose a dissension between the Pharisees and the Sadducees: and
the multitude was divided.



(6) The agreement between the wicked is weak, even though they conspire together to oppress the
truth.
#BCV:Acts 23:8
<h3><verse=Acts 23:8>Acts 23:8</verse></h3>




(7) For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, neither (d) angel, nor spirit: but the Pharisees
confess both.



(7) It is an old heresy of the Sadducees to deny the existence of angels and souls, and in addition the
resurrection of the dead.



(d) Things that exist without a body.
#BCV:Acts 23:9
<h3><verse=Acts 23:9>Acts 23:9</verse></h3>




(8) And there arose a great cry: and the (e) scribes [that were] of the Pharisees' part arose, and strove,
saying, We find no evil in this man: but if a spirit or an angel hath spoken to him, let us not fight
against God.



(8) The Lord, when it pleases him, finds defenders of his cause, even amongst his enemies.



(e) The scribe's office was a public office, and the name of the Pharisees was the name of a sect.
#BCV:Acts 23:10
<h3><verse=Acts 23:10>Acts 23:10</verse></h3>




(9) And when there arose a great dissension, the chief captain, fearing lest Paul should have been
pulled in pieces of them, commanded the soldiers to go down, and to take him by force from
among them, and to bring [him] into the castle.



(9) God will not forsake his own, even to the very end.
#BCV:Acts 23:12
<h3><verse=Acts 23:12>Acts 23:12</verse></h3>




(10) And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves (f) under a
curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul.



(10) Those who are carried away with a foolish zeal think that they may lie and murder, and do
whatever mischief they wish.



(f) Cursing and prohibiting themselves, they promised.
#BCV:Acts 23:15
<h3><verse=Acts 23:15>Acts 23:15</verse></h3>

<page=2803>Now therefore ye with the (g) council signify to the chief captain that he bring him down unto you
to morrow, as though ye would enquire something more perfectly concerning him: and we, or ever
he come near, are ready to kill him.



(g) You and the senate ask that the same thing should be done, so that the tribune will not think that
it was demanded of him because of an individual's private interests.
#BCV:Acts 23:17
<h3><verse=Acts 23:17>Acts 23:17</verse></h3>




(11) Then Paul called one of the centurions unto [him], and said, Bring this young man unto the
chief captain: for he hath a certain thing to tell him.



(11) The wisdom of the Spirit must be joined with simplicity.
#BCV:Acts 23:22
<h3><verse=Acts 23:22>Acts 23:22</verse></h3>




(12) So the chief captain [then] let the young man depart, and charged [him, See thou] tell no man
that thou hast shewed these things to me.



(12) There is no counsel against the Lord and his servants.
#BCV:Acts 23:26
<h3><verse=Acts 23:26>Acts 23:26</verse></h3>




(13) Claudius Lysias unto the most excellent governor Felix [sendeth] greeting.



(13) Lysias is suddenly made by the Lord to be Paul's protector.

<h2>Acts 24</h2>

#BCV:Acts 24:1
<h3><verse=Acts 24:1>Acts 24:1</verse></h3>

<page=2804>And (1) after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and [with] a certain orator
[named] Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul.



(1) Hypocrites, when they can not do what they want to do by force and deceit, at length they go
about to accomplish it by a show of law.
#BCV:Acts 24:2
<h3><verse=Acts 24:2>Acts 24:2</verse></h3>



And when he was called forth, Tertullus began to accuse [him], saying, Seeing that (a) by thee we
enjoy great quietness, and that very (b) worthy deeds are done unto this nation by thy providence,



(a) Felix ruled that province with great cruelty and covetousness, and yet Josephus records that he
did many worthy things, such as taking Eleazar the captain of certain cutthroats, and put that
deceiving wretch the Egyptian to flight, who caused great troubles in Judea.



(b) He uses a word which the Stoics defined as a perfect duty and perfect behaviour.
#BCV:Acts 24:5
<h3><verse=Acts 24:5>Acts 24:5</verse></h3>



For we have found this man [a] (c) pestilent [fellow], and a mover of sedition among all the Jews
throughout the world, and a (d) ringleader of the sect of the (e) Nazarenes:



(c) Literally, "a plague".



(d) As one would say, a ringleader, or a flag bearer.



(e) So they scoffingly called the Christians, taking the name from the towns where they thought that
Christ was born, whereupon it happened that Julian the apostate called Christ a Galilean.
#BCV:Acts 24:9
<h3><verse=Acts 24:9>Acts 24:9</verse></h3>



And the Jews also (f) assented, saying that these things were so.



(f) Confirmed what Tertullus said.
#BCV:Acts 24:10
<h3><verse=Acts 24:10>Acts 24:10</verse></h3>




(2) Then Paul, after that the governor had beckoned unto him to speak, answered, Forasmuch as I
know that thou hast been of (g) many years a judge unto this nation, I do the more cheerfully
answer for myself:

<page=2805>(2) Tertullus, by the devil's rhetoric, begins with flattery and finishes with lies: but Paul using
heavenly eloquence, and but a simple beginning, casts off from himself the crime of sedition, with
which he was being charged, with a simple denial.



(g) Paul pleaded his cause two years before Felix departed out of the province, see (<bcv=Acts 24:27>Act 24:27</bcv>), but he
had governed Trachonite, and Batanea, and Galavnite, before Claudius made him governor of Judea;
see Josephus in the History of the Jewish War, lib. 2, cap. 11.
#BCV:Acts 24:13
<h3><verse=Acts 24:13>Acts 24:13</verse></h3>



Neither can they (h) prove the things whereof they now accuse me.



(h) They cannot lay forth before you and prove with good reasons.
#BCV:Acts 24:14
<h3><verse=Acts 24:14>Acts 24:14</verse></h3>




(3) But this I confess unto thee, that after the way which they call (i) heresy, so worship I the God of
my fathers, believing all things which are written in the law and in the prophets:



(3) Paul proceeds in the case of religion from a conjectural state to a practical state, not only
admitting of the religion which he was accused of, but also proving it to be true, to be heavenly and
from God, and to be the oldest of all religions.



(i) Here this word "heresy" or "sect" is taken in a good sense.
#BCV:Acts 24:17
<h3><verse=Acts 24:17>Acts 24:17</verse></h3>




(4) Now after many years I came to bring alms to my nation, and offerings.



(4) Paul in conclusion tells the things thing which was truly done, which Tertullus before him had
corrupted in various ways.
#BCV:Acts 24:18
<h3><verse=Acts 24:18>Acts 24:18</verse></h3>




(k) Whereupon certain Jews from (l) Asia found me purified in the temple, neither with multitude,
nor with tumult.



(k) And while I was occupied with those things.



(l) By this it is evident that these from Asia were Paul's enemies, and the ones that stirred up the
people against him.
#BCV:Acts 24:20
<h3><verse=Acts 24:20>Acts 24:20</verse></h3>

<page=2806>Or else let these same [here] say, if they have found any evil doing in me, while I stood before the



(m) council,



(m) Where the tribune brought me.
#BCV:Acts 24:22
<h3><verse=Acts 24:22>Acts 24:22</verse></h3>




(5) And when Felix heard these things, having more (n) perfect knowledge of [that] way, he deferred
them, and said, When Lysias the chief captain shall come down, I will know the uttermost of your
matter.



(5) The judge suspends his sentence because the matter is doubtful.



(n) Felix could not judge whether he had done wickedly in the matter of his religion or not until he
had a better understanding of the way which Paul professed: and as for other matters with regard to
the charge of sedition, he considers it good to defer it until he hears Lysias, and therefore he gives
Paul somewhat more liberty.
#BCV:Acts 24:23
<h3><verse=Acts 24:23>Acts 24:23</verse></h3>




(6) And he commanded a centurion to keep Paul, and to let [him] have liberty, and that he should
forbid none of his acquaintance to minister or come unto him.



(6) God is a most faithful keeper of his servants, and the power of the truth is wonderful, even
amongst men who are otherwise profane.
#BCV:Acts 24:24
<h3><verse=Acts 24:24>Acts 24:24</verse></h3>



And after certain days, when Felix came with his wife (o) Drusilla, which was a Jewess, he sent for
Paul, and heard him concerning the faith in Christ.



(o) This Drusilla was Agrippa's sister of whom Luke speaks afterwards, a harlot and very licentious
woman, and being the wife of Azizus king of the Emesens, who was circumcised, departed from
him, and went to this Felix the brother of Pallas, who was at one time the slave of Nero.
#BCV:Acts 24:27
<h3><verse=Acts 24:27>Acts 24:27</verse></h3>




(7) But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix' room: and Felix, willing to (p) shew the Jews a
pleasure, left Paul bound.



(7) With an evil mind, that is guilty in itself, and although sometimes there is some show of fairness,
yet eventually the conscience will be extinguished: but in the meanwhile we have need of continual
patience.

<page=2807>(p) For he had behaved himself very wickedly in the province, and had it not been for favour of his
brother Pallas, he would have died for it: so that we may gather by this why he would have pleased
the Jews.

<h2>Acts 25</h2>

#BCV:Acts 25:1
<h3><verse=Acts 25:1>Acts 25:1</verse></h3>

<page=2808>Now (1) when Festus was come into the province, after three days he ascended from Caesarea to
Jerusalem.



(1) Satan's ministers are subtle and diligent in seeking every occasion: but God who watches for his
own, easily hinders all their counsels.
#BCV:Acts 25:6
<h3><verse=Acts 25:6>Acts 25:6</verse></h3>




(2) And when he had tarried among them more than ten days, he went down unto Caesarea; and the
next day sitting on the judgment seat commanded Paul to be brought.



(2) We may justly avoid an injury, but not with an injury.
#BCV:Acts 25:7
<h3><verse=Acts 25:7>Acts 25:7</verse></h3>



And when he was come, the Jews which came down from Jerusalem stood round about, and laid
many and grievous complaints against Paul, which (a) they could not prove.



(a) They could not prove them certainly and without undoubted reasons.
#BCV:Acts 25:9
<h3><verse=Acts 25:9>Acts 25:9</verse></h3>




(3) But Festus, willing to do the Jews a pleasure, answered Paul, and said, Wilt thou go up to
Jerusalem, and there be judged of these things before me?



(3) God does not only turn aside the counsel of the wicked, but also turns it upon their own heads.
#BCV:Acts 25:13
<h3><verse=Acts 25:13>Acts 25:13</verse></h3>




(4) And after certain days king (b) Agrippa and Bernice came unto Caesarea to salute Festus.



(4) Festus, without even trying to, even before kings, brings to light the wickedness of the Jews, and
Paul's innocence, and in this way marvellously confirms the Church of God.



(b) This Agrippa was the son of Agrippa whose death Luke spoke of before, and Bernice was his
sister.
#BCV:Acts 25:16
<h3><verse=Acts 25:16>Acts 25:16</verse></h3>

<page=2809>To whom I answered, It is not the manner of the Romans to (c) deliver any man to die, before that
he which is accused have the accusers face to face, and have licence to answer for himself
concerning the crime laid against him.



(c) The Romans did not used to deliver any man to be punished before, etc.
#BCV:Acts 25:19
<h3><verse=Acts 25:19>Acts 25:19</verse></h3>




(5) But had certain questions against him of their own (d) superstition, and of one Jesus, which was
dead, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.



(5) The profane and wicked take an occasion to condemn the true doctrine, because of private
controversies and contentions of men between themselves: but the truth nevertheless abides safe
and sure in the meantime.



(d) This profane man calls the Jewish religion "superstition", and that before King Agrippa, but it is
no wonder: for the rulers of provinces, because of the majesty of the empire of Rome, used to
think themselves better than kings.
#BCV:Acts 25:22
<h3><verse=Acts 25:22>Acts 25:22</verse></h3>




(6) Then Agrippa said unto Festus, I would also hear the man myself. To morrow, said he, thou shalt
hear him.



(6) That is fulfilled in Paul which the Lord had told to Ananias about him; see (<bcv=Acts 9:15>Act 9:15</bcv>).
#BCV:Acts 25:23
<h3><verse=Acts 25:23>Acts 25:23</verse></h3>



And on the morrow, when Agrippa was come, and Bernice, with great (e) pomp, and was entered
into the place of hearing, with the chief captains, and principal men of the city, at Festus'
commandment Paul was brought forth.



(e) Gorgeously, like a prince.
#BCV:Acts 25:26
<h3><verse=Acts 25:26>Acts 25:26</verse></h3>



Of whom I have no certain thing to write unto my (f) lord. Wherefore I have brought him forth
before you, and specially before thee, O king Agrippa, that, after examination had, I might have
somewhat to write.



(f) To Augustus. Good princes refused this name at the first, that is, to be called lords, but afterwards
they allowed it, as we read of Traianus.

<h2>Acts 26</h2>

#BCV:Acts 26:2
<h3><verse=Acts 26:2>Acts 26:2</verse></h3>


<page=2810>(1) I think myself happy, king Agrippa, because I shall answer for myself this day before thee
touching all the things whereof I am accused of the Jews:



(1) To have a skilful judge is a great and singular gift of God.
#BCV:Acts 26:4
<h3><verse=Acts 26:4>Acts 26:4</verse></h3>




(2) My manner of life from my youth, which was at the first among mine own nation at Jerusalem,
know all the Jews;



(2) Paul divides the history of his life into two times: for the first he calls his adversaries as witnesses:
for the latter, the fathers and Prophets.
#BCV:Acts 26:5
<h3><verse=Acts 26:5>Acts 26:5</verse></h3>



Which (a) knew me from (b) the beginning, if they would testify, that after the (c) most straitest sect
of our religion I lived a Pharisee.



(a) That I was, and where, and how I lived.



(b) That my parents were Pharisees.



(c) The sect of the Pharisees was the most exquisite amongst all the sects of the Jews, for it was
better than all the rest.
#BCV:Acts 26:6
<h3><verse=Acts 26:6>Acts 26:6</verse></h3>




(3) And now I stand and am judged for the hope of the promise made of God unto our fathers:



(3) There are three chief and principal witnesses of true doctrine: God, the true fathers, and the
consent of the true Church of God.
#BCV:Acts 26:8
<h3><verse=Acts 26:8>Acts 26:8</verse></h3>




(4) Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead?



(4) He proves the resurrection of the dead, first by the power of God, then by the resurrection of
Christ, of which he is a sufficient witness.
#BCV:Acts 26:10
<h3><verse=Acts 26:10>Acts 26:10</verse></h3>

<page=2811>Which thing I also did in Jerusalem: and many of the saints did I shut up in prison, having received
authority from the chief priests; and when they were put to death, I gave (d) my voice against [them].



(d) I consented to and allowed their actions: for he was not a judge.
#BCV:Acts 26:11
<h3><verse=Acts 26:11>Acts 26:11</verse></h3>



And I punished them oft in every synagogue, and (e) compelled [them] to blaspheme; and being
exceedingly mad against them, I persecuted [them] even unto strange cities.



(e) By extreme punishment.
#BCV:Acts 26:18
<h3><verse=Acts 26:18>Acts 26:18</verse></h3>




(5) To open their eyes, [and] to turn [them] from darkness to light, and [from] the power of Satan
unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are
sanctified by faith that is in me.



(5) The end of the Gospel is to save those who are brought to the knowledge of Christ, and are
justified and sanctified in him, being laid hold on by faith.
#BCV:Acts 26:19
<h3><verse=Acts 26:19>Acts 26:19</verse></h3>




(6) Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision:



(6) Paul alleges God to be author of the office of his apostleship, and that God's grace is a witness.
#BCV:Acts 26:22
<h3><verse=Acts 26:22>Acts 26:22</verse></h3>




(7) Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to (f) small
and great, saying none other things than those which the prophets and Moses did say should come:



(7) Christ is the end of the Law and the Prophets.



(f) To everyone.
#BCV:Acts 26:23
<h3><verse=Acts 26:23>Acts 26:23</verse></h3>



That Christ should (g) suffer, [and] that he should be the (h) first that should rise from the dead, and
should shew (i) light unto the people, and to the Gentiles.



(g) That Christ would not be such a king as the Jews dreamed of, but one appointed to bear our
miseries, and the punishment of our sins.



(h) The first of those who are raised from the dead.

<page=2812>(i) Life, yea and that a most blessed life which will be endless: and this is set against darkness, which
almost in all languages sometimes signifies death, and sometimes misery and calamity.
#BCV:Acts 26:24
<h3><verse=Acts 26:24>Acts 26:24</verse></h3>




(8) And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself;
much learning doth make thee mad.



(8) The wisdom of God is madness to fools, yet nonetheless we must boldly confirm the truth.
#BCV:Acts 26:26
<h3><verse=Acts 26:26>Acts 26:26</verse></h3>



For the king knoweth of these things, before whom also I speak freely: for I am persuaded that
none of these things are hidden from him; for this thing was not done in a (k) corner.



(k) Secretly and privately.
#BCV:Acts 26:27
<h3><verse=Acts 26:27>Acts 26:27</verse></h3>




(9) King Agrippa, believest thou the prophets? I know that thou believest.



(9) Paul, as it were forgetting that he stood a prisoner to defend his cause, does not forget the office
of his apostleship.
#BCV:Acts 26:29
<h3><verse=Acts 26:29>Acts 26:29</verse></h3>



And Paul said, (l) I would to God, that not only thou, but also all that hear me this day, were both
almost, and altogether such as I am, except these bonds.



(l) I would to God that not only almost, but thoroughly and altogether, both you and all that hear
me this day, might be made as I am, only except for my bonds.
#BCV:Acts 26:30
<h3><verse=Acts 26:30>Acts 26:30</verse></h3>




(10) And when he had thus spoken, the king rose up, and the governor, and Bernice, and they that
sat with them:



(10) Paul is solemnly acquitted, and yet not dismissed.

<h2>Acts 27</h2>

#BCV:Acts 27:1
<h3><verse=Acts 27:1>Acts 27:1</verse></h3>

<page=2813>And (1) when it was determined that we should sail into Italy, they delivered Paul and certain other
prisoners unto [one] named Julius, a centurion of Augustus' band.



(1) Paul, with many other prisoners and through the midst of many deaths, is brought to Rome, but
yet by God's own hand as it were, and set forth and commended to the world with many singular
testimonies.
#BCV:Acts 27:7
<h3><verse=Acts 27:7>Acts 27:7</verse></h3>



And when we had sailed slowly many days, and scarce were come over against Cnidus, the wind not
suffering us, we sailed under Crete, over against (a) Salmone;



(a) Which was a high hill of Crete.
#BCV:Acts 27:9
<h3><verse=Acts 27:9>Acts 27:9</verse></h3>




(2) Now when much time was spent, and when sailing was now dangerous, because the (b) fast was
now already past, Paul admonished [them],



(2) God's providence does not take away the causes which God uses as means, but rather orders and
disposes their right use, even when he reveals an extraordinary issue.



(b) This refers to the Jews fast which they kept in the feast of expiation, as we read in (<bcv=Lev 23:17>Lev 23:17</bcv>),
which fell in the seventh month which we call October, and is not good for navigating or sailing.
#BCV:Acts 27:11
<h3><verse=Acts 27:11>Acts 27:11</verse></h3>




(3) Nevertheless the centurion believed the master and the owner of the ship, more than those
things which were spoken by Paul.



(3) Men cast themselves willingly into an infinite amount of dangers, when they choose to follow
their own wisdom, rather than God, when he speaks by the mouth of his servants.
#BCV:Acts 27:14
<h3><verse=Acts 27:14>Acts 27:14</verse></h3>



But not long after there arose against (c) it a tempestuous wind, called (d) Euroclydon.



(c) By Crete, from whose shore our ship was driven by that means.



(d) Northeast wind.
#BCV:Acts 27:18
<h3><verse=Acts 27:18>Acts 27:18</verse></h3>


<page=2814>(4) And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next [day] they lightened the ship;



(4) The result proves that none provide worse for themselves than those who commit themselves to
be governed only by their own wisdom.
#BCV:Acts 27:21
<h3><verse=Acts 27:21>Acts 27:21</verse></h3>




(5) But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have
hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss.



(5) God spares the wicked for a time, for the sake of his elect and chosen.
#BCV:Acts 27:25
<h3><verse=Acts 27:25>Acts 27:25</verse></h3>




(6) Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.



(6) The promise is made effectual through faith.
#BCV:Acts 27:27
<h3><verse=Acts 27:27>Acts 27:27</verse></h3>




(7) But when the fourteenth night was come, as we were driven up and down in (e) Adria, about
midnight the shipmen deemed (f) that they drew near to some country;



(7) We attain and come to the promised and sure salvation through the midst of tempests and death
itself.



(e) For Ptolemy writes that the Adriatic Sea beats upon the east shore of Cecilia.



(f) Or, some country drew near to them.
#BCV:Acts 27:30
<h3><verse=Acts 27:30>Acts 27:30</verse></h3>




(8) And as the shipmen were about to flee out of the ship, when they had let down the boat into the
sea, under colour as though they would have cast anchors out of the foreship,



(8) No matter how foul the act, distrust and an evil conscience can always compel men to commit it.
#BCV:Acts 27:31
<h3><verse=Acts 27:31>Acts 27:31</verse></h3>




(9) Paul said to the centurion and to the soldiers, Except these abide in the ship, ye cannot be saved.

<page=2815>(9) Although the performing of God's promises does not depend upon secondary causes, yet they
make themselves unworthy of God's bountifulness who do not embrace those means which God
offers them, either upon rashness or distrust.
#BCV:Acts 27:33
<h3><verse=Acts 27:33>Acts 27:33</verse></h3>




(10) And while the day was coming on, Paul besought [them] all to take meat, saying, This day is the
fourteenth day that ye have tarried and continued fasting, having taken nothing.



(10) When the world trembles, the faithful alone are not only at peace, but strengthen and encourage
others by their example.
#BCV:Acts 27:34
<h3><verse=Acts 27:34>Acts 27:34</verse></h3>



Wherefore I pray you to take [some] meat: for this is for your health: for there shall not an (g) hair
fall from the head of any of you.



(g) This is a proverb which the Hebrews use, by which is meant that they will be safe, and that not
one of them will perish.
#BCV:Acts 27:39
<h3><verse=Acts 27:39>Acts 27:39</verse></h3>




(11) And when it was day, they knew not the land: but they discovered a certain (h) creek with a
shore, into the which they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship.



(11) Then are tempests most of all to be feared and looked for, when the port or haven is nearest.



(h) A creek is a sea within land, as the Adriatic Sea, and the Persian Sea.
#BCV:Acts 27:41
<h3><verse=Acts 27:41>Acts 27:41</verse></h3>



And falling into a place where (i) two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the forepart stuck fast,
and remained unmoveable, but the hinder part was broken with the violence of the waves.



(i) So is an isthmus called, because the Sea touches it on both sides.
#BCV:Acts 27:42
<h3><verse=Acts 27:42>Acts 27:42</verse></h3>




(12) And the soldiers' counsel was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim out, and
escape.



(12) There is nowhere more unfaithfulness and unthankfulness in unbelievers.
#BCV:Acts 27:43
<h3><verse=Acts 27:43>Acts 27:43</verse></h3>

#BCV:act 27:43
<h3><verse=act 27:43>act 27:43</verse></h3>



they which could swim should cast [themselves] first [into the sea], and get to land:



(13) God finds even amongst his enemies those whose help he uses to preserve his own.
#BCV:Acts 27:44
<h3><verse=Acts 27:44>Acts 27:44</verse></h3>




(14) And the rest, some on boards, and some on [broken pieces] of the ship. And so it came to pass,
that they escaped all safe to land.



(14) The goodness of God overcomes man's malice.

<h2>Acts 28</h2>

#BCV:Acts 28:1
<h3><verse=Acts 28:1>Acts 28:1</verse></h3>

<page=2817>And when they were escaped, then they knew that the island was called (a) Melita.



(a) That place which we today call Malta.
#BCV:Acts 28:3
<h3><verse=Acts 28:3>Acts 28:3</verse></h3>




(1) And when Paul had gathered a bundle of sticks, and laid [them] on the fire, there came a viper
out of the heat, and fastened on his hand.



(1) The godly are sure to have danger upon danger, but they alway have a glorious outcome.
#BCV:Acts 28:4
<h3><verse=Acts 28:4>Acts 28:4</verse></h3>




(2) And when the barbarians saw the [venomous] beast hang on his hand, they said among
themselves, No doubt this man is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet (b)
vengeance suffereth not to live.



(2) Although adversity is the punishment of sin, yet seeing that God in punishing men does not
always punish because of sin, they judge rashly who either do not wait for the end, or who judge and
esteem of men according to prosperity or adversity.



(b) Right and proper.
#BCV:Acts 28:6
<h3><verse=Acts 28:6>Acts 28:6</verse></h3>



Howbeit they looked when he should have (c) swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly: (3) but after
they had looked a great while, and saw no harm come to him, they changed their minds, and said
that he was a god.



(c) The Greek word signifies to be inflamed or to swell: moreover, Dioscorides in his sixth book,
chap. 38, witnesses that the biting of a viper causes a swelling of the body, and so says Nicander, in
his remedies against poisons. (3) There are none who are more changing in every way than they who
are ignorant of true religion.
#BCV:Acts 28:7
<h3><verse=Acts 28:7>Acts 28:7</verse></h3>




(4) In the same quarters were possessions of the chief man of the island, whose name was Publius;
who received us, and lodged us three days courteously.

<page=2818>(4) It never yet was a regret to any man who received the servant of God, were he ever so miserable
and poor.
#BCV:Acts 28:9
<h3><verse=Acts 28:9>Acts 28:9</verse></h3>




(5) So when this was done, others also, which had diseases in the island, came, and were healed:



(5) Although Paul was a captive, yet the power of God was not captive.
#BCV:Acts 28:10
<h3><verse=Acts 28:10>Acts 28:10</verse></h3>




(6) Who also honoured us with many honours; and when we departed, they laded [us] with such
things as were necessary.



(6) God does well to strangers for his children's sake.
#BCV:Acts 28:11
<h3><verse=Acts 28:11>Acts 28:11</verse></h3>




(7) And after three months we departed in a ship of Alexandria, which had wintered in the isle,
whose (d) sign was Castor and Pollux.



(7) Idols do not defile the saints, who do in no way give consent of them.



(d) So they used to deck the front part of their ships, because of which their ships were called by
such names.
#BCV:Acts 28:14
<h3><verse=Acts 28:14>Acts 28:14</verse></h3>




(8) Where we found brethren, and were desired to tarry with them seven days: and so we went
toward Rome.



(8) God bows and bends the hearts even of profane men, as it pleases him to show favour to his
own.
#BCV:Acts 28:15
<h3><verse=Acts 28:15>Acts 28:15</verse></h3>




(9) And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as far as (e) Appii forum,
and The three taverns: whom when Paul saw, he thanked God, and took courage.



(9) God never allows his own to be afflicted beyond their strength.



(e) Appius was a paved road made by Appius the blind, with the help of his soldiers, long and broad,
and it ran out towards the sea, and there were three taverns on it.
#BCV:Acts 28:16
<h3><verse=Acts 28:16>Acts 28:16</verse></h3>

#BCV:act 28:16
<h3><verse=act 28:16>act 28:16</verse></h3>



Paul was suffered to dwell by (f) himself with a soldier that kept him.



(f) Not in a common prison, but in a house which he rented for himself.
#BCV:Acts 28:17
<h3><verse=Acts 28:17>Acts 28:17</verse></h3>




(10) And it came to pass, that after three days Paul called the chief of the Jews together: and when
they were come together, he said unto them, Men [and] brethren, though I have committed nothing
against the people, or customs of our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the
hands of the Romans.



(10) Paul in every place remembers himself to be an apostle.
#BCV:Acts 28:19
<h3><verse=Acts 28:19>Acts 28:19</verse></h3>




(11) But when the Jews spake against [it], I was constrained to appeal unto Caesar; not that I had
ought to accuse my nation of.



(11) We may use the means which God gives us, but in such a way that we seek the glory of God,
and not of ourselves.
#BCV:Acts 28:23
<h3><verse=Acts 28:23>Acts 28:23</verse></h3>




(12) And when they had appointed him a day, there came many to him into [his] lodging; to whom
he expounded and (g) testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of
the law of Moses, and [out of] the prophets, from morning till evening.



(12) The Law and the Gospel agree well together.



(g) With good reasons, and proved that the kingdom of God foretold to them by the Prophets had
come.
#BCV:Acts 28:24
<h3><verse=Acts 28:24>Acts 28:24</verse></h3>




(13) And some believed the things which were spoken, and some believed not.



(13) The Gospel is a taste of life to those that believe, and a taste of death to those that are
disobedient.
#BCV:Acts 28:26
<h3><verse=Acts 28:26>Acts 28:26</verse></h3>


<page=2820>(14) Saying, Go unto this people, and say, Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing
ye shall see, and not perceive:



(14) The unbelievers willingly resist the truth, and yet not by chance.
#BCV:Acts 28:27
<h3><verse=Acts 28:27>Acts 28:27</verse></h3>



For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have
they (h) closed; lest they should see with [their] eyes, and hear with [their] ears, and understand with
[their] heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.



(h) They made as though they did not see that which they saw against their desires: yea, they did see,
but they would not see.
#BCV:Acts 28:28
<h3><verse=Acts 28:28>Acts 28:28</verse></h3>




(15) Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and [that]
they will hear it.



(15) The unbelief of the reprobate and castaways cannot cause the truth of God to be of no effect.
#BCV:Acts 28:29
<h3><verse=Acts 28:29>Acts 28:29</verse></h3>




(16) And when he had said these words, the Jews departed, and had great reasoning among
themselves.



(16) Not the Gospel, but the contempt of the Gospel is the cause of strife and debate.
#BCV:Acts 28:30
<h3><verse=Acts 28:30>Acts 28:30</verse></h3>




(17) And Paul dwelt two whole years in his own hired house, and received all that came in unto him,



(17) The word of God cannot be bound.

<h1>Romans</h1>


<h2>Romans 1</h2>

#BCV:Romans 1:1
<h3><verse=Romans 1:1>Romans 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2821>Paul, (1) a (2) (a) servant of Jesus Christ, called [to be] an (b) apostle, (c) separated unto the gospel
of God,


(1) The first part of the epistle contains a most profitable preface down to verse six. (2) Paul,
exhorting the Romans to give diligent heed to him, in that he shows that he comes not in his own
name, but as God's messenger to the Gentiles, entreats them with the weightiest matter that exists,
promised long ago by God, by many good witnesses, and now at length indeed performed.

(a) Minister, for this word "servant" is not taken in this place as set against the word "freeman", but
rather refers to and declares his ministry and office.

(b) Whereas he said before in a general term that he was a minister, now he comes to a more special
name, and says that he is an apostle, and that he did not take this office upon himself by his own
doing, but that he was called by God, and therefore in this letter of his to the Romans he is doing
nothing but his duty.

(c) Appointed by God to preach the gospel.
#BCV:Romans 1:3
<h3><verse=Romans 1:3>Romans 1:3</verse></h3>

(3) Concerning his (d) Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was (e) made of the seed of David (f)
according to the flesh;

(3) By declaring the sum of the doctrine of the Gospel, he stirs up the Romans to consider well the
matter about which he is entreating them: so then he shows that Christ (who is the very substance
and sum of the gospel) is the only Son of God the Father, who with regard to his humanity is born
of the seed of David, but with regard to his divine and spiritual nature, by which he sanctified
himself, is begotten of the Father from everlasting, as also manifestly appears by his mighty
resurrection.

(d) This is a plain testimony of the person of Christ, that he is but one, and also a testimony of his
two natures, and their properties.

(e) Who received flesh from the virgin who was David's daughter.

(f) As he is man: for this word "flesh", by the figure of speech synecdoche, is taken for man.
#BCV:Romans 1:4
<h3><verse=Romans 1:4>Romans 1:4</verse></h3>

<page=2822>And (g) declared [to be] the Son of God with (h) power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the
resurrection from the dead:

(g) Shown and made manifest.

(h) The divine and mighty power is set against the weakness of the flesh, for it overcame death.
#BCV:Romans 1:5
<h3><verse=Romans 1:5>Romans 1:5</verse></h3>

(i) By whom we have received (k) grace and apostleship, for (l) obedience to the faith (m) among all
nations, for his name:

(i) Of whom.

(k) This marvellous, liberal, and gracious gift, which is given to me, the least of all the saints, to
preach, etc.; see (<bcv=Eph 3:8>Eph 3:8</bcv>).

(l) That men through faith might obey God.

(m) For his name's sake.
#BCV:Romans 1:6
<h3><verse=Romans 1:6>Romans 1:6</verse></h3>



Among whom are ye also the (n) called of Jesus Christ:



(n) Who through God's goodness belong to Christ.
#BCV:Romans 1:7
<h3><verse=Romans 1:7>Romans 1:7</verse></h3>



To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called [to be] saints: (o) Grace to you and peace from God
our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.



(o) God's free good will: by "peace" the Hebrews mean a prosperous success in all things.
#BCV:Romans 1:8
<h3><verse=Romans 1:8>Romans 1:8</verse></h3>




(4) First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is (p) spoken of
throughout the (q) whole world.



(4) He obtains their favourable patience, in that he points out what it is that they can be praised for,
and his true apostolic good will toward them, confirmed by taking God himself as witness.



(p) Because your faith is such that it is spoken well of in all churches.



(q) In all churches.
#BCV:Romans 1:9
<h3><verse=Romans 1:9>Romans 1:9</verse></h3>

For God is my witness, whom I serve with my (r) spirit in the (s) gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;
without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers;


(r) Very willingly and with all my heart.

(s) In preaching his Son.
#BCV:Romans 1:12
<h3><verse=Romans 1:12>Romans 1:12</verse></h3>


That is, that (t) I may be comforted together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me.


(t) Though Paul was ever so excellent, yet in teaching the church, he might be instructed by it.
#BCV:Romans 1:15
<h3><verse=Romans 1:15>Romans 1:15</verse></h3>



So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at (u) Rome also.



(u) He means all those who dwell at Rome, though some of them were not Romans; see the end of
the epistle.
#BCV:Romans 1:16
<h3><verse=Romans 1:16>Romans 1:16</verse></h3>



For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: (5) for it is the (x) power of God unto salvation to
every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the (y) Greek.



(5) This is the second part of the epistle, until the beginning of chapter nine. Now the whole end
and purpose of the discussion is this: that is to say, to show that there is but one way to attain unto
salvation (which is displayed to us by God in the gospel, and that equally to every nation), and this
way is Jesus Christ apprehended by faith.



(x) God's mighty and effectual instrument to save men by.



(y) When this word "Greek" is contrasted with the word "Jew", then it signifies a Gentile.
#BCV:Romans 1:17
<h3><verse=Romans 1:17>Romans 1:17</verse></h3>




(6) For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from (z) faith to faith: (7) as it is written, The
just shall live by faith.



(6) The confirmation of the former proposition: we are taught in the gospel that we are instituted
before God by faith, which increases daily, and therefore also saved.



(z) From faith, which increases daily. (7) The proof of the first as well as of the second proposition,
out of Habakkuk, who attributes and gives to faith both justice and life before God.
#BCV:Romans 1:18
<h3><verse=Romans 1:18>Romans 1:18</verse></h3>


<page=2824>(8) For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against (a) all ungodliness and unrighteousness of
men, who hold the (b) truth in unrighteousness;



(8) Another confirmation of the principal question: all men being considered in themselves, or
without Christ, are guilty both of ungodliness and also unrighteousness, and therefore are subject on
condemnation: therefore they need to seek righteousness in someone else.



(a) Against all types of ungodliness.



(b) By "truth" Paul means all the light that is left in man since his fall, not as though they being led
by this were able to come into favour with God, but that their own reason might condemn them of
wickedness both against God and man.
#BCV:Romans 1:19
<h3><verse=Romans 1:19>Romans 1:19</verse></h3>


(9) Because that which may be known of God is manifest in (c) them; for God hath shewed [it] unto
them.

(9) By their ungodliness he proves that although all men have a most clear and evident mirror in
which to behold the everlasting and almighty nature of God, even in his creatures, yet they have
fallen away from those principles to most foolish and stupid ideas of their own brains, in their
worship of God and of what God requires of them.

(c) In their hearts.
#BCV:Romans 1:20
<h3><verse=Romans 1:20>Romans 1:20</verse></h3>

For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being (d) understood
by the things that are made, [even] his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:

(d) You do not see God, and yet you acknowledge him as God by his works; Cicero.
#BCV:Romans 1:21
<h3><verse=Romans 1:21>Romans 1:21</verse></h3>

Because that, when they knew God, they (e) glorified [him] not as God, neither were thankful; but
became (f) vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.

(e) They did not honour him with that honour and service which was appropriate for his everlasting
power and Godhead.

(f) As if he said, became so corrupt in themselves.
#BCV:Romans 1:22
<h3><verse=Romans 1:22>Romans 1:22</verse></h3>

(g) Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,

(g) Or, thought themselves.
#BCV:Romans 1:23
<h3><verse=Romans 1:23>Romans 1:23</verse></h3>

And changed the glory of the (h) uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man,
and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.

(h) For the true God they substituted another.
#BCV:Romans 1:24
<h3><verse=Romans 1:24>Romans 1:24</verse></h3>

(10) Wherefore (i) God also (k) gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts,
to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:

(10) The unrighteousness of men he sets forth first in this, that following their lusts, even against
nature, they defiled themselves one with another, by the just judgment of God.

(i) The contempt of religion is the source of all evil.

(k) As a just judge.
#BCV:Romans 1:27
<h3><verse=Romans 1:27>Romans 1:27</verse></h3>

And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward
another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that (l)
recompence of their error which was meet.

(l) An appropriate reward and that which they deserved.
#BCV:Romans 1:28
<h3><verse=Romans 1:28>Romans 1:28</verse></h3>


(11) And even as they did not like to retain God in [their] knowledge, God gave them over to a (m)
reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;

(11) He proves the unrighteousness of man by referring to many types of wickedness, from which

(if not from all, yet at the least from many of them) no man is altogether free.

(m) To a corrupt and perverse mind, by which it comes to pass that the conscience, having been
removed by them, and they having almost no more remorse for sin, run headlong into all types of
evil.
#BCV:Romans 1:31
<h3><verse=Romans 1:31>Romans 1:31</verse></h3>

Without understanding, (n) covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:

(n) Not caring if they keep their covenants and bargains.
#BCV:Romans 1:32
<h3><verse=Romans 1:32>Romans 1:32</verse></h3>

Who knowing the (o) judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death,
not only do the same, but (p) have pleasure in them that do them.

(o) By the "judgment of God" he means that which the philosophers called the "law of nature", and
the lawyers themselves termed the "law of nations".

(p) Are companions and partakers with them in their wickedness, and beside that, commend those
who do wrong.

<h2>Romans 2</h2>

#BCV:Romans 2:1
<h3><verse=Romans 2:1>Romans 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2827>Therefore (1) thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou
judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things.



(1) He convicts those who would seem to be exempt from the rest of men (because they reprehend
other men's faults), and says that they are least of all to be excused, for if they were searched well
and carefully (as God surely does) they themselves would be found guilty in those things which they
reprehend and punish in others: so that in condemning others, they pronounce sentence against
themselves.
#BCV:Romans 2:2
<h3><verse=Romans 2:2>Romans 2:2</verse></h3>

But we (a) are sure that the judgment of God is according to (b) truth against them which commit
such things.

(a) Paul alleges no places of scripture, for he reasons generally against all men: but he brings reasons
such that every man is persuaded by them in his mind, so that the devil himself is not able to
completely pluck them out.

(b) Considering and judging things correctly, and not by any outward show.
#BCV:Romans 2:4
<h3><verse=Romans 2:4>Romans 2:4</verse></h3>


(2) Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing
that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?

(2) A vehement and grievous crying out against those that please themselves because they see more
than others do, and yet are in no way better than others are.
#BCV:Romans 2:5
<h3><verse=Romans 2:5>Romans 2:5</verse></h3>

But after thy hardness and impenitent heart (c) treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of
wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God;

(c) While you are giving yourself to pleasures, thinking to increase your goods, you will find God's
wrath.
#BCV:Romans 2:6
<h3><verse=Romans 2:6>Romans 2:6</verse></h3>

(3) Who will render to every man according to his deeds:

<page=2828>(3) The foundation of the former disputation, that both the Jews and Gentiles together have need
of righteousness.

#BCV:Romans 2:7
<h3><verse=Romans 2:7>Romans 2:7</verse></h3>

To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for (d) glory and honour and immortality,
eternal life:

(d) Glory which follows good works, which he does not lay out before us as though there were any
that could attain to salvation by his own strength, but, he lays this condition of salvation before us,
which no man can perform, to bring men to Christ, who alone justifies the believers, as he himself
concludes; see (<bcv=Rom 2:21-22>Rom 2:21-22</bcv>).
#BCV:Romans 2:8
<h3><verse=Romans 2:8>Romans 2:8</verse></h3>

But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the (e) truth, but obey unrighteousness, (f)
indignation and wrath,

(e) By "truth" he means the knowledge which we naturally have.

(f) God's indignation against sinners, which will quickly be kindled.
#BCV:Romans 2:11
<h3><verse=Romans 2:11>Romans 2:11</verse></h3>



For there is no (g) respect of persons with God.



(g) God does not judge men either by their blood or by their country, either to receive them or to
cast them away.
#BCV:Romans 2:12
<h3><verse=Romans 2:12>Romans 2:12</verse></h3>

(4) For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law: and as many as have sinned
in the law shall be judged by the law;

(4) He applies that general accusation against mankind particularly both to the Gentiles and to the
Jews.
#BCV:Romans 2:13
<h3><verse=Romans 2:13>Romans 2:13</verse></h3>

(5) (For not the hearers of the law [are] just before God, but the doers of the law shall be (h)
justified.

(5) He prevents an objection which might be made by the Jews whom the law does not excuse, but
condemn, because it is not the hearing of the law that justifies, but rather the keeping of it.

<page=2829>(h) Will be pronounced just before God's judgment seat: which is true indeed if any one could be
found that had fulfilled the law: but seeing that Abraham was not justified by the law, but by faith, it
follows that no man can be justified by works.

#BCV:Romans 2:14
<h3><verse=Romans 2:14>Romans 2:14</verse></h3>


(6) For when the Gentiles, which have (i) not the law, do by (k) nature the things contained in the law,
these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves:

(6) He prevents an objection which might be made by the Gentiles, who even though they do not
have the law of Moses, yet they have no reason why they may excuse their wickedness, in that they
have something written in their hearts instead of a law, as men do who forbid and punish some
things as wicked, and command and commend other things as good.



(i) Not that they are without any law, but rather the law of the Jews.



(k) Command honest things, and forbid dishonest.
#BCV:Romans 2:15
<h3><verse=Romans 2:15>Romans 2:15</verse></h3>



Which shew the work of the law (l) written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and
[their] thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)



(l) This knowledge is a natural knowledge.
#BCV:Romans 2:16
<h3><verse=Romans 2:16>Romans 2:16</verse></h3>




(7) In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to (m) my gospel.



(7) God defers many judgments, which he will nonetheless execute at their convenient time by Jesus
Christ, with a most candid examination, not only of words and deeds, but of thoughts also, be they
ever so hidden or secret.



(m) As my doctrine witnesses, which I am appointed to preach.
#BCV:Romans 2:17
<h3><verse=Romans 2:17>Romans 2:17</verse></h3>


(8) Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God,

(8) He proves by the testimony of David, and the other prophets, that God bestows greatest
benefits upon the Jews, in giving them also the law, but that they are the most unthankful and
unkind of all men.
#BCV:Romans 2:18
<h3><verse=Romans 2:18>Romans 2:18</verse></h3>

<page=2830>And knowest [his] will, and (n) approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of
the law;

(n) Can test and discern what things swerve from God's will.
#BCV:Romans 2:20
<h3><verse=Romans 2:20>Romans 2:20</verse></h3>



An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, which hast the (o) form of knowledge and of the
truth in the (p) law.



(o) The way to teach and to form others in the knowledge of the truth.



(p) As though he said that the Jews under a pretence of an outward serving of God, attributed all to
themselves, when in reality they did nothing less than observe the Law.
#BCV:Romans 2:25
<h3><verse=Romans 2:25>Romans 2:25</verse></h3>




(9) For circumcision verily profiteth, if thou keep the law: but if thou be a breaker of the law, thy
circumcision is made uncircumcision.



(9) He precisely prevents their objection, who set a holiness in circumcision, and the outward
observation of the law: so that he shows that the outward circumcision, if it is separated from the
inward, does not justify, and also condemns those who are indeed circumcised, of whom it is
required that they fulfil that which circumcision signifies, that is to say, cleanness of the heart and
the whole life according to the commandment of the law, so that if there is a man uncircumcised
according to the flesh, who is circumcised in heart, he is far better and to be more regarded than any
Jew that is circumcised according to the flesh only.
#BCV:Romans 2:26
<h3><verse=Romans 2:26>Romans 2:26</verse></h3>



Therefore if the (q) uncircumcision keep the righteousness of the law, shall not his (r)
uncircumcision be counted for circumcision?



(q) This is the figure of speech metonymy, and means "uncircumcised".



(r) The state and condition of the uncircumcised.
#BCV:Romans 2:27
<h3><verse=Romans 2:27>Romans 2:27</verse></h3>

And shall not (s) uncircumcision which is by nature, if it fulfil the law, judge thee, who by the (t)
letter and circumcision dost transgress the law?

(s) He who is uncircumcised by nature and race.

<page=2831>(t) Paul often contrasts the letter against the Spirit: but in this place, the circumcision which is
according to the letter is the cutting off of the foreskin, but the circumcision of the Spirit is the
circumcision of the heart, that is to say, the spiritual result of the ceremony is true holiness and
righteousness, by which the people of God are known from profane and heathen men.
#BCV:Romans 2:28
<h3><verse=Romans 2:28>Romans 2:28</verse></h3>

For he is not a Jew, which is one (u) outwardly; neither [is that] circumcision, which is outward in the
flesh:

(u) By the outward ceremony only.
#BCV:Romans 2:29
<h3><verse=Romans 2:29>Romans 2:29</verse></h3>



But he [is] a Jew, which is one inwardly; and circumcision [is that] of the heart, in the (x) spirit, [and]
not in the letter; whose praise [is] not of men, but of God.



(x) Whose power is inward, and in the heart.

<h2>Romans 3</h2>

#BCV:Romans 3:1
<h3><verse=Romans 3:1>Romans 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2832>What (1) advantage then hath the Jew? or what profit [is there] of circumcision?



(1) The first address to the Jews, or the first anticipating of an objection by the Jews: what then, are
the Jews preferred no more than the Gentiles? Indeed, they are, says the apostle, by the doing of
God, for he committed the tables of the covenant to them, so that the unbelief of a few cannot
cause the whole nation without exception to be cast away by God, who is true, and who also uses
their unworthiness to commend and set forth his goodness.
#BCV:Romans 3:2
<h3><verse=Romans 3:2>Romans 3:2</verse></h3>



Much every way: (a) chiefly, because that unto them were committed the (b) oracles of God.



(a) The Jews' state and condition was of principal importance.

(b) Words.
#BCV:Romans 3:3
<h3><verse=Romans 3:3>Romans 3:3</verse></h3>

For what if some did not (c) believe? shall their unbelief make the (d) faith of God without effect?



(c) Break the covenant.



(d) The faith that God gave.
#BCV:Romans 3:4
<h3><verse=Romans 3:4>Romans 3:4</verse></h3>



God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be (e)
justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome (f) when thou art judged.



(e) That your justice might be plainly seen.

(f) Seeing that you showed forth an true token of your righteousness, steadfastness and faith, by
preserving him who had broken his covenant.
#BCV:Romans 3:5
<h3><verse=Romans 3:5>Romans 3:5</verse></h3>


(2) But if our (g) unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, what shall we say? [Is] God
unrighteous who taketh vengeance? (I speak as (h) a man)

<page=2833>(2) Another objection resulting from the former answer: that the justice of God is commended and
set forth by our unrighteousness in such a way that God does not therefore forget that he is the
judge of the world, and therefore a most severe avenger of unrighteousness.

(g) Treachery, and all the fruits of it.

(h) Therefore I do not speak these words of my own accord, as though this is what I thought, but
this is the talk of man's wisdom, which is not subject to the will of God.
#BCV:Romans 3:7
<h3><verse=Romans 3:7>Romans 3:7</verse></h3>


(3) For if the (i) truth of God hath more abounded through my lie unto his glory; why yet am I also
judged as a sinner?



(3) A third objection, which adds somewhat to the former: if sins turn out to the glory of God, they
are not only not to be punished, but we ought rather to give ourselves to them: and this blasphemy
Paul, as he fights to curse and detest it, pronounces it to be a just punishment against such
blasphemers.

(i) The truth and unchangingness.
#BCV:Romans 3:9
<h3><verse=Romans 3:9>Romans 3:9</verse></h3>


(4) What then? are we better [than they]? No, in no wise: for we have before proved both Jews and
Gentiles, that they are all (k) under sin;

(4) Another answer to the first objection: that the Jews, if they are considered in themselves, are no
better than other men are: as it has been long since pronounced by the mouth of the Prophets.



(k) Are guilty of sin.
#BCV:Romans 3:17
<h3><verse=Romans 3:17>Romans 3:17</verse></h3>

And the (l) way of peace have they not known:

(l) An innocent and peaceable life.
#BCV:Romans 3:19
<h3><verse=Romans 3:19>Romans 3:19</verse></h3>


(5) Now we know that what things soever the (m) law saith, it saith to them who are under the law:
that (6) every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become (n) guilty before God.

(5) He proves that this grievous accusation which is uttered by David and Isaiah correctly refers to
the Jews.

<page=2834>(m) The Law of Moses. (6) A conclusion of all the former discussions, from (Rom 1:18) on.

"Therefore", says the apostle, "no man can hope to be justified by any law, whether it be that general
law, or the particular law of Moses, and therefore to be saved: seeing it appears (as we have already
proved) by comparing the law and man's life together, that all men are sinners, and therefore worthy
of condemnation in the sight of God."

(n) Be found guilty before God.
#BCV:Romans 3:20
<h3><verse=Romans 3:20>Romans 3:20</verse></h3>

Therefore by the (o) deeds of the law there shall no (p) flesh be (q) justified in his (r) sight: for by
the law [is] the knowledge of sin.

(o) By those deeds by which the law can be done by us.

(p) Flesh is here taken for man, as in many other places, and furthermore has greater force here: for
it is given to show the contrast between God and man: as if one would say, "Man, who is nothing
else but a piece of flesh defiled with sin, and God, who is most pure and most perfect in himself."

(q) Absolved before the judgment seat of God.

(r) Paul has in mind a contrasting of the righteousness of before men, be they ever so just, against
the justice which can stand before God: now there is no righteousness that can stand before God,
except the righteousness of Christ alone.
#BCV:Romans 3:21
<h3><verse=Romans 3:21>Romans 3:21</verse></h3>

(7) But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and
the prophets;

(7) "Therefore", says the apostle, "so that men would not perish, God now exhibits that which he
promised from ancient time, that is to say, a way by which we may be instituted and saved before
him without the law."
#BCV:Romans 3:22
<h3><verse=Romans 3:22>Romans 3:22</verse></h3>

(8) Even the righteousness of God [which is] by faith of (s) Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them
that believe: for there is no difference:

(8) The matter, as it were, of this righteousness is Christ Jesus apprehended by faith, and for the
sake of righteousness Christ is offered to all people, as without him all people are shut out from the
kingdom of God.

(s) Which we give to Jesus Christ, or which rests upon him.
#BCV:Romans 3:23
<h3><verse=Romans 3:23>Romans 3:23</verse></h3>

for all have sinned, and come short of the (t) glory of God;

(t) By the "glory of God" is meant that mark which we all aim for, that is, everlasting life, which
consists in our being made partakers of the glory of God.
#BCV:Romans 3:24
<h3><verse=Romans 3:24>Romans 3:24</verse></h3>

(9) Being justified (u) freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Jesus Christ:

(9) Therefore this righteousness which we gain is altogether freely given, for its foundation is upon
those things which we have not done ourselves, but rather those things which Christ has suffered for
our sakes, to deliver us from sin.

(u) By his free gift, and liberality.
#BCV:Romans 3:25
<h3><verse=Romans 3:25>Romans 3:25</verse></h3>

(10) Whom God hath set forth [to be] a propitiation through faith in his (x) blood, to declare his
righteousness for the remission of sins that (y) are past, through the (z) forbearance of God;

(10) God then is the author of that free justification, because it pleased him: and Christ is he who
suffered punishment for our sins, and in whom we have remission of them: and the means by which
we apprehend Christ is faith. In short, the result is the setting forth of the goodness of God, that by
this means it may appear that he is indeed merciful, and faithful in his promises, as he that freely, and
of grace alone, justifies the believers.

(x) The name of blood reminds us of the symbol of the old sacrifices, and that the truth and
substance of these sacrifices is in Christ.

(y) Of those sins which we committed when we were his enemies.

(z) Through his patience, and his enduring nature.
#BCV:Romans 3:26
<h3><verse=Romans 3:26>Romans 3:26</verse></h3>

To declare, [I say], (a) at this time his righteousness: that he might be (b) just, and the (c) justifier of
him which (d) believeth in Jesus.

(a) That is, when Paul wrote this.



(b) That he might be found exceedingly truth and faithful.

(c) Making him just and without blame, but putting Christ's righteousness to him.

(d) Of the number of those who by faith lay hold upon Christ: contrary to whom are those who
seek to be saved by circumcision, that is by the law.
#BCV:Romans 3:27
<h3><verse=Romans 3:27>Romans 3:27</verse></h3>

<page=2836>(11) Where [is] boasting then? It is excluded. By what (e) law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith.

(11) An argument to prove this conclusion, that we are justified by faith without works, taken from
the result of justification. The result of justification is the glory of God alone: therefore we are
justified by faith without works: for if we were justified either by our own works alone, or partly by
faith and partly by works, the glory of this justification would not be wholly given to God.

(e) By what doctrine? Now the doctrine of works has this condition attached to it, that is, "if you
do", and the doctrine of faith has this condition, that is, "if you believe".
#BCV:Romans 3:29
<h3><verse=Romans 3:29>Romans 3:29</verse></h3>


(12) [Is he] the God of the (f) Jews only? [is he] not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also:

(12) Another absurd argument: if justification depended upon the law of Moses, then God would be
a Saviour to the Jews only. Again, if he would save the Jews after one manner, and the Gentiles after
another, he would not be consistent. Therefore he will justify both of them after the very same
manner, that is to say, by faith. Moreover, this argument must be joined to that which follows next,
so that his conclusion may be firm and evident.

(f) God is said to be their God, after the manner of the scripture, whom he loves and cares for.
#BCV:Romans 3:30
<h3><verse=Romans 3:30>Romans 3:30</verse></h3>

Seeing [it is] one God, which shall justify (g) the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through
faith.

(g) The circumcised.
#BCV:Romans 3:31
<h3><verse=Romans 3:31>Romans 3:31</verse></h3>




(13) Do we then make (h) void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we (i) establish the law.

(13) The taking away of an objection: yet the law is not therefore taken away, but is rather
established, as it will be declared in its proper place.

(h) Vain, void, to no purpose, and of no power.

(i) We make the law effectual and strong.

<h2>Romans 4</h2>

#BCV:Romans 4:1
<h3><verse=Romans 4:1>Romans 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=2837>What (1) shall we then say that Abraham our father, as pertaining to the (a) flesh, hath found?

(1) A new argument of great weight, taken from the example of Abraham the father of all believers:
and this is the proposition: if Abraham is considered in himself by his works, he has deserved
nothing with which to rejoice with God.



(a) By works, as is evident from the next verse.
#BCV:Romans 4:2
<h3><verse=Romans 4:2>Romans 4:2</verse></h3>

(2) For if Abraham were justified by works, he hath [whereof] to glory; but not before God.

(2) A preventing of an objection. Abraham may well rejoice and extol himself among men, but not
with God.
#BCV:Romans 4:3
<h3><verse=Romans 4:3>Romans 4:3</verse></h3>


(3) For what saith the scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for
righteousness.



(3) A confirmation of the proposition: Abraham was justified by imputation of faith, and therefore
freely, without any regard being give to his works.
#BCV:Romans 4:4
<h3><verse=Romans 4:4>Romans 4:4</verse></h3>


(4) Now to him that (b) worketh is the reward not (c) reckoned of grace, but of debt.

(4) The first proof of the confirmation, taken from opposites: to him who deserves anything by his
labour, the wages are not counted as favour, but as debt: but to him that has done nothing but
believe in him who freely promises, faith is imputed.

(b) To him that has deserved anything from his work.



(c) Is not reckoned or given to him.
#BCV:Romans 4:5
<h3><verse=Romans 4:5>Romans 4:5</verse></h3>



But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that (d) justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted
for righteousness.

(d) That makes him who is wicked in himself to be just in Christ.
#BCV:Romans 4:6
<h3><verse=Romans 4:6>Romans 4:6</verse></h3>

<page=2838>(5) Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man, unto whom God imputeth
righteousness without works,

(5) Another proof of the same confirmation: David puts blessedness as a part of the free pardon of
sins, and therefore justification also.
#BCV:Romans 4:9
<h3><verse=Romans 4:9>Romans 4:9</verse></h3>

(6) [Cometh] this (e) blessedness then upon the circumcision [only], or upon the uncircumcision also?
for we say that faith was reckoned to Abraham for righteousness.



(6) A new proposition: that this manner of justification belongs both to uncircumcised and also to
the circumcised, as is declared in the person of Abraham.

(e) This saying of David, in which he pronounces them as blessed.
#BCV:Romans 4:10
<h3><verse=Romans 4:10>Romans 4:10</verse></h3>


(7) How was it then reckoned? when he was in circumcision, or in uncircumcision? Not in
circumcision, but in uncircumcision.

(7) He proves that it belongs to the uncircumcised (for there was no doubt of the circumcised) in
this way: Abraham was justified in uncircumcision, therefore this justification belongs also to the
uncircumcised. Nay, it does not belong to the circumcised, in respect of the circumcision, much less
are the uncircumcised shut out from it because of their uncircumcision.
#BCV:Romans 4:11
<h3><verse=Romans 4:11>Romans 4:11</verse></h3>

(8) And he received the (f) sign of circumcision, a (g) seal of the righteousness of the faith which
[he had yet] being uncircumcised: (9) that he might be the father of all them that believe, though
they be not circumcised; that righteousness might be imputed unto them also:

(8) A preventing of an objection: why then was Abraham circumcised, if he was already justified?
That the gift of righteousness (he says) might be confirmed in him.

(f) Circumcision, which is a sign: as we say the "ordinance of baptism", for "baptism", which is a
ordinance.

(g) Circumcision was previously called a sign, with respect to the outward ceremony. Now Paul
shows the force and substance of that sign. That is, to what end it is used, that is, not only to signify,
but also to seal up the righteousness of faith. By this we come to possess Christ himself: for the
Holy Spirit works that inwardly indeed, which the ordinances being joined with the word, represent.

<page=2839>(9) An applying of the example of Abraham to the uncircumcised believers, whose father he also
makes Abraham.
#BCV:Romans 4:12
<h3><verse=Romans 4:12>Romans 4:12</verse></h3>


(10) And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision only, but who also
walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which [he had] being [yet] uncircumcised.

(10) An applying of the same example to the circumcised believers, whose father is Abraham, but
yet by faith.
#BCV:Romans 4:13
<h3><verse=Romans 4:13>Romans 4:13</verse></h3>

(11) For the promise, that he should be the (h) heir of the world, [was] not to Abraham, or to his
seed, through the (i) law, but through the righteousness of faith.

(11) A reason why the seed of Abraham is to be considered to be by faith, because Abraham
himself through faith was made partaker of the promise by which he was made the father of all
nations.

(h) That all the nations of the world should be his children: or by the "world" may be understood
the land of Canaan.

(i) For works that he had done, or upon this condition, that he should fulfil the Law.
#BCV:Romans 4:14
<h3><verse=Romans 4:14>Romans 4:14</verse></h3>

(12) For if they which are of the (k) law [be] heirs, faith is made void, and the promise made of
none effect:

(12) A double confirmation of that reason: the one is that the promise cannot be apprehended by
the law, and that if it could it would be made of no effect: the other, that the condition of faith
would be joined in vain to the promise if it could be apprehended by works.

(k) If they are heirs who have fulfilled the law.
#BCV:Romans 4:15
<h3><verse=Romans 4:15>Romans 4:15</verse></h3>

(13) Because the law worketh wrath: for where no law is, [there is] no transgression.

(13) A reason of the first confirmation, why the promise cannot be apprehended by the law: because
the law does not reconcile God and us, but rather proclaims his anger against us, because no man
can fully keep it.
#BCV:Romans 4:16
<h3><verse=Romans 4:16>Romans 4:16</verse></h3>

(14) Therefore [it is] of faith, that [it might be] by grace; to the end the promise might be sure to all the (l) seed; 15 not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of Abraham; who is the father of us all,

the (l) seed; (15) not to that only which is of the law, but to that also which is of the faith of
Abraham; who is the father of us all,

(14) The conclusion of this argument: the salvation and justification of the posterity of Abraham

(that is, of the Church which is composed of all believers) proceeds from faith which lays hold on
the promise made to Abraham, and which promise Abraham himself first of all laid hold on.

(l) To all the believers.

(15) That is to say, not only of those who believe and are also circumcised according to the law, but
of those also who without circumcision and with respect of faith only, are counted among the
children of Abraham.
#BCV:Romans 4:17
<h3><verse=Romans 4:17>Romans 4:17</verse></h3>

(As it is written, I have made thee a (16) father of many nations,) before him whom he believed,
[even] (m) God, who (n) quickeneth the dead, and (o) calleth those things which be not as though
they were.

(16) This fatherhood is spiritual, depending only upon the power of God, who made the promise.

(m) Before God, that is by membership in his spiritual family, which has a place before God, and
makes us acceptable to God.

(n) Who restores to life.

(o) With whom those things are already, which as yet are not indeed, as he can with a word make
what he wishes out of nothing.
#BCV:Romans 4:18
<h3><verse=Romans 4:18>Romans 4:18</verse></h3>

(17) Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become the father of many nations,
according to that which was spoken, So shall thy seed be.

(17) A description of true faith wholly resting in the power of God, and his good will, set forth in
the example of Abraham.
#BCV:Romans 4:19
<h3><verse=Romans 4:19>Romans 4:19</verse></h3>

And being (p) not weak in faith, he considered not his own body now (q) dead, when he was about
an hundred years old, neither yet the deadness of Sara's womb:

(p) Very strong and steadfast.

<page=2841>(q) Void of strength, and unfit to have children.
#BCV:Romans 4:20
<h3><verse=Romans 4:20>Romans 4:20</verse></h3>

He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving (r) glory to
God;

(r) Acknowledged and praised God, as most gracious and true.
#BCV:Romans 4:21
<h3><verse=Romans 4:21>Romans 4:21</verse></h3>

And being (s) fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.

(s) A description of true faith.
#BCV:Romans 4:23
<h3><verse=Romans 4:23>Romans 4:23</verse></h3>


(18) Now it was not written for his sake alone, that it was imputed to him;

(18) The rule of justification is always the same, both in Abraham, and in all the faithful: that is to
say, faith in God, who after there was made a full satisfaction for our sins in Christ our mediator,
raised him from the dead, that we also being justified, might be saved in him.
#BCV:Romans 4:25
<h3><verse=Romans 4:25>Romans 4:25</verse></h3>

Who was delivered for our (t) offences, and was raised again for our justification.

(t) To pay the ransom for our sins.

<h2>Romans 5</h2>

#BCV:Romans 5:1
<h3><verse=Romans 5:1>Romans 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=2842>Therefore being (1) justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:



(1) Another argument taken from the effects: we are justified with that which truly appeases our
conscience before God: and faith in Christ does appease our conscience and not the law, as it was
said before, therefore by faith we are justified, and not by the law.
#BCV:Romans 5:2
<h3><verse=Romans 5:2>Romans 5:2</verse></h3>




(2) By whom also we (a) have access by faith into this grace (b) wherein we (c) stand, (3) and (d)
rejoice in hope of the glory of God.



(2) Whereas quietness of conscience is attributed to faith, it is to be referred to Christ, who is the
giver of faith itself, and in whom faith itself is effectual.



(a) We must know by this, that we still receive the same effect from faith.



(b) By which grace, that is, by which gracious love and good will, or that state unto which we are
graciously taken.



(c) We stand steadfast. (3) A preventing of an objection against those who, beholding the daily
miseries and calamities of the Church, think that the Christians dream when they brag of their
felicity: to whom the apostle answers, that their felicity is laid up under hope of another place: which
hope is so certain and sure, that they rejoice for that happiness just as if they presently enjoyed it.



(d) Our minds are not only quiet and settled, but we are also marvellously glad, and have great joy
because of the heavenly inheritance which awaits us.
#BCV:Romans 5:3
<h3><verse=Romans 5:3>Romans 5:3</verse></h3>




(4) And not only [so], but we glory in tribulations also: (5) knowing that tribulation worketh patience;



(4) Tribulation itself gives us different and various occasions to rejoice, and more than this it does
not make us miserable. (5) Afflictions make us use to being patient, and patience assures us of the
goodness of God, and this experience confirms and fosters our hope, which never deceives us.
#BCV:Romans 5:5
<h3><verse=Romans 5:5>Romans 5:5</verse></h3>




(6) And hope maketh not ashamed; because the (e) love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the
Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

<page=2843>(6) The foundation of hope is an assured testimony of the conscience, by the gift of the Holy Spirit,
that we are loved by God, and this is nothing else but that which we call faith, from which it follows
that through faith our consciences are quieted.



(e) With which he loves us.
#BCV:Romans 5:6
<h3><verse=Romans 5:6>Romans 5:6</verse></h3>




(7) For when we were yet without strength, in due (f) time Christ died for the ungodly.



(7) A sure comfort in adversity, so that our peace and quietness of conscience are not troubled: for
he that so loved them that were of no strength and while they were yet sinners, that he died for
them, how can he neglect them, having now been sanctified and living in him?



(f) At an appropriate and proper time which the Father had appointed.
#BCV:Romans 5:7
<h3><verse=Romans 5:7>Romans 5:7</verse></h3>




(8) For scarcely (g) for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would
even dare to die.



(8) An amplifying of the love of God towards us, so that we cannot doubt it, who delivered Christ
to death for the unjust and for them from whom he could receive no useful thing, and, what is more,
for his very enemies. How can it be then that Christ, being now alive, should not save them from
destruction whom by his death he justifies and reconciles.



(g) In the place of a just man.
#BCV:Romans 5:8
<h3><verse=Romans 5:8>Romans 5:8</verse></h3>



But God (h) commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet (i) sinners, Christ died for us.



(h) He commends his love toward us, so that in the midst of our afflictions we may know assuredly
that he will be present with us.



(i) While sin reigned in us.
#BCV:Romans 5:9
<h3><verse=Romans 5:9>Romans 5:9</verse></h3>



Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from (k) wrath through him.



(k) From affliction and destruction.
#BCV:Romans 5:11
<h3><verse=Romans 5:11>Romans 5:11</verse></h3>


<page=2844>(9) And not only [so], but we also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now
received the atonement.



(9) He now passes over to the other part of justification, which consists in the free imputation of
the obedience of Christ: so that to the remission of sins, there is added moreover and besides, the
gift of Christ's righteousness imputed or put upon us by faith, which swallows up that
unrighteousness which flowed from Adam into us, and all the fruits of it: so that in Christ we do not
only cease to be unjust, but we begin also to be just.
#BCV:Romans 5:12
<h3><verse=Romans 5:12>Romans 5:12</verse></h3>




(10) Wherefore, as by (l) one man (m) sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death
passed upon all men, (n) for that all have sinned:



(10) From Adam, in whom all have sinned, both guiltiness and death (which is the punishment of
the guiltiness) came upon all.



(l) By Adam, who is compared with Christ, and similar to him in this, that both of them make those
who are theirs partakers of that which they have: but they are not the same in this, that Adam
derives sin into them that are his, even into their very nature, and that to death: but Christ makes
them that are his partakers of his righteousness by grace, and that to life.



(m) By sin is meant that disease which is ours by inheritance, and men commonly call it original sin:
for so he calls that sin in the singular number, whereas if he speaks of the fruits of it, he uses the
plural number, calling them sins.



(n) That is, in Adam.
#BCV:Romans 5:13
<h3><verse=Romans 5:13>Romans 5:13</verse></h3>




(11) (For until (o) the law sin was in the world: but sin is not (p) imputed when there is no law.



(11) That this is so, that both guiltiness and death began not after the giving and transgressing of law
of Moses, is evident in that men died before that law was given: for in that they died, sin, which is
the cause of death, existed then: and in such a way, that it was also imputed: because of this it
follows that there was then some law, the breach of which was the cause of death.



(o) Even from Adam to Moses.



(p) Where there is no law made, no man is punished as faulty and guilty.
#BCV:Romans 5:14
<h3><verse=Romans 5:14>Romans 5:14</verse></h3>




(12) Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over (q) them that had not sinned after
the (r) similitude of Adam's transgression, (13) who is the figure of him that was to come.

<page=2845>(12) But that this law was not the universal law, and that death did not proceed from any actual sin
of everyone particularly, it appears by this, that the very infants which neither could ever know nor
transgress that natural law, are nonetheless dead as well as Adam.



(q) Our infants.



(r) Nor after the manner of sin of those who are older, following their lusts: but yet the whole
posterity was corrupted in Adam when he knowingly and willingly sinned.



(13) Now that first Adam corresponds to the latter, who is Christ, as it is afterward declared.
#BCV:Romans 5:15
<h3><verse=Romans 5:15>Romans 5:15</verse></h3>




(14) But not as the offence, so also [is] the free gift. For if through the offence of (s) one many be
dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, [which is] by one man, Jesus Christ, hath
abounded unto many.



(14) Adam and Christ are compared together in this respect, that both of them give and yield to
theirs that which is their own: but the first difference between them is this, that Adam by nature has
spread his fault to the destruction of many, but Christ's obedience has be grace overflowed to many.



(s) That is, Adam.
#BCV:Romans 5:16
<h3><verse=Romans 5:16>Romans 5:16</verse></h3>

(15) And not as [it was] by one that sinned, [so is] the gift: for the judgment [was] by one to
condemnation, but the free gift [is] of many offences unto (t) justification.

(15) Another inequality consists in this, that by Adam's one offence men are made guilty, but the
righteousness of Christ imputed unto us freely, does not only absolve us from that one fault, but
from all others.

(t) To the sentence of absolution, by which we are acquitted and pronounced righteous.
#BCV:Romans 5:17
<h3><verse=Romans 5:17>Romans 5:17</verse></h3>

(16) For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of
grace and of the gift of righteousness shall (u) reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)

(16) The third difference is that the righteousness of Christ, being imputed to us by grace, is of
greater power to bring life, than the offence of Adam is to condemn his posterity to death.

(u) Be partakers of true and everlasting life.
#BCV:Romans 5:18
<h3><verse=Romans 5:18>Romans 5:18</verse></h3>

<page=2846>(17) Therefore as by the offence of one [judgment came] upon all men to condemnation; even so by
the righteousness of one [the free gift came] upon all men unto (x) justification of life.

(17) Therefore, to be short, as by one man's offence the guiltiness came on all men to make them
subject to death, so on the opposite side, the righteousness of Christ, which by God's mercy is
imputed to all believers, justifies them, that they may become partakers of everlasting life.

(x) Not only because our sins are forgiven us, but also because the righteousness of Christ is
imputed to us.
#BCV:Romans 5:19
<h3><verse=Romans 5:19>Romans 5:19</verse></h3>

(18) For as by one man's (y) disobedience (z) many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one
shall many be made righteous.

(18) The foundation of this whole comparison is this, that these two men are set as two heads or
roots, so that out of the one comes sin by nature, and from the other righteousness by grace springs
forth upon others.

(y) So then, sin enters not into us only by following the steps of our forefathers, but we receive
corruption from him by inheritance.

(z) The word "many" is contrasted with the words "a few".
#BCV:Romans 5:20
<h3><verse=Romans 5:20>Romans 5:20</verse></h3>

(19) Moreover the law (a) entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace
did much more (b) abound:

(19) A preventing of an objection: why then did the law of Moses then enter? So that men might be
so much more the guilty, and the benefit of God in Christ Jesus be all the more glorious.

(a) In addition to that disease which all men were infected with by being defiled with one man's sin,
the law entered.



(b) Grace was poured so plentifully from heaven that it did not only counterbalance sin, but beyond
this it surpassed it.

<h2>Romans 6</h2>

#BCV:Romans 6:1
<h3><verse=Romans 6:1>Romans 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=2847>What (1) shall we say then? Shall we continue in (a) sin, that grace may abound?



(1) He passes now to another benefit of Christ, which is called sanctification or regeneration.



(a) In that corruption, for though the guiltiness of sin, is not imputed to us, yet the corruption still
remains in us: and this is killed little by little by the sanctification that follows justification.
#BCV:Romans 6:2
<h3><verse=Romans 6:2>Romans 6:2</verse></h3>



God forbid. (2) How shall we, that are (b) dead to sin, live any longer therein?



(2) The benefits of justification and sanctification are always inseparable joined together, and both
of them proceed from Christ by the grace of God: now sanctification is the abolishing of sin, that is,
of our natural corruption, whose place is taken by the cleanness and pureness of a reformed nature.



(b) They are said by Paul to be dead to sin, who are made partakers of the power of Christ, so that
the natural corruption is dead in them, that is, the power of it is removed, and it does not bring
forth its bitter fruits: and on the other hand, they are said to live to sin, who are in the flesh, that is,
whom the Spirit of God has not delivered from the slavery of the corruption of nature.
#BCV:Romans 6:3
<h3><verse=Romans 6:3>Romans 6:3</verse></h3>




(3) Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into (c) Jesus Christ were baptized into his
death?



(3) There are three parts of this sanctification: that is, the death of the old man or sin, his burial, and
the resurrection of the new man, descending into us from the virtue of the death, burial, and
resurrection of Christ, of which benefit our baptism is a sign and pledge.



(c) To the end that growing up as one with him, we should receive his strength to extinguish sin in
us, and to make us new men.
#BCV:Romans 6:4
<h3><verse=Romans 6:4>Romans 6:4</verse></h3>



Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the
dead (d) by the glory of the Father, even so (e) we also should walk in newness of life.



(d) So that Christ himself, being released of his infirmity and weakness, might live in glory with God
forever.



(e) And we who are his members rise for this purpose, that being made partakers of the very same
power, we should begin to lead a new life, as though we were already in heaven.
#BCV:Romans 6:5
<h3><verse=Romans 6:5>Romans 6:5</verse></h3>


<page=2848>(4) For if we have been planted together in the (f) likeness of his death, we shall (g) be also [in the
likeness] of [his] resurrection:



(4) The death of sin and the life of righteousness, or our ingrafting into Christ, and growing up into
one with him, cannot be separated by any means, neither in death nor life: by which it follows that
no man is sanctified who lives still to sin, and therefore is no man made partaker of Christ by faith,
who does not repent and turn from his wickedness: for as he said before, the law is not overturned
but established by faith.



(f) And by means of the strength which comes from him to us, so we die to sin, as he is dead.



(g) For every day we become more perfect: for we will never be perfectly sanctified, as long as we
live here.
#BCV:Romans 6:6
<h3><verse=Romans 6:6>Romans 6:6</verse></h3>



Knowing this, that our (h) old man is crucified with (i) [him], that the (k) body of sin might be
destroyed, that henceforth we should not (l) serve sin.



(h) Our entire nature, as we are conceived and born into this world with sin, is called "old", partly by
comparing that old Adam with Christ, and partly also in respect of the deformed state of our
corrupt nature, which we change with a new.



(i) Our corrupt nature is regarded as belonging to Christ, not because of what he has done, but by
imputation.



(k) That wickedness which remains in us.



(l) The end of sanctification which we aim at, and will at length come to, that is, when God will be
all in all.
#BCV:Romans 6:7
<h3><verse=Romans 6:7>Romans 6:7</verse></h3>




(5) For he that is dead is freed from sin.



(5) He proves it by the effects of death, comparing Christ the head with his members.
#BCV:Romans 6:10
<h3><verse=Romans 6:10>Romans 6:10</verse></h3>



For in that he died, he died unto sin (m) once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto (n) God.



(m) Once for all.



(n) With God.
#BCV:Romans 6:12
<h3><verse=Romans 6:12>Romans 6:12</verse></h3>


<page=2849>(6) Let not sin therefore (o) reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.



(6) An exhortation to contend and strive with corruption and all the effects of it.



(o) By reigning Paul means that principal and high rule which no man strives against, and even if
anyone does, it is in vain.
#BCV:Romans 6:13
<h3><verse=Romans 6:13>Romans 6:13</verse></h3>



Neither (p) yield ye your (q) members [as] (r) instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield
yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members [as] instruments of
righteousness unto God.



(p) To sin, as to a Lord or tyrant.



(q) Your mind and all the powers of it.



(r) As instruments to commit wickedness with them.
#BCV:Romans 6:14
<h3><verse=Romans 6:14>Romans 6:14</verse></h3>




(7) For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.



(7) He grants that sin is not yet so dead in us that it is utterly extinct: but he promises victory to
those that contend bravely, because we have the grace of God given to us which works so that the
law is not now in us the power and instrument of sin.
#BCV:Romans 6:15
<h3><verse=Romans 6:15>Romans 6:15</verse></h3>




(8) What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.



(8) To be under the law and under sin signifies the same thing, with respect to whose who are not
sanctified, and on the other hand to be under grace and righteousness is in harmony with those that
are regenerated. Now these are contraries, so that one cannot agree with the other: therefore let
righteousness expel sin.
#BCV:Romans 6:17
<h3><verse=Romans 6:17>Romans 6:17</verse></h3>




(9) But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that (s)
form of doctrine which was delivered you.



(9) By nature we are slaves to sin and free from righteousness, but by the grace of God we are made
servants to righteousness, and therefore free from sin.

<page=2850>(s) This type of speech has a special meaning in it: for he means by this that the doctrine of the
gospel is like a certain mould in which we are cast, to be shaped and fashioned like it.
#BCV:Romans 6:20
<h3><verse=Romans 6:20>Romans 6:20</verse></h3>



For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were (t) free from righteousness.



(t) Righteousness had no rule over you.
#BCV:Romans 6:21
<h3><verse=Romans 6:21>Romans 6:21</verse></h3>




(10) What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the (u) end of those
things [is] death.



(10) An exhortation to the study of righteousness and hatred of sin, the contrary results of both
being set down before us.



(u) The reward or payment.
#BCV:Romans 6:23
<h3><verse=Romans 6:23>Romans 6:23</verse></h3>




(11) For the wages of sin [is] death; but the gift of God [is] eternal life through Jesus Christ our
Lord.



(11) Death is the punishment due to sin, but we are sanctified freely, to everlasting life.

<h2>Romans 7</h2>

#BCV:Romans 7:1
<h3><verse=Romans 7:1>Romans 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=2851>Know (1) ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law,) how that the law hath dominion
over a man as long as he liveth?



(1) By expounding the similitude of marriage, he compares together the state of man both before
and after regeneration. The law of matrimony, he says, is this, that as long as the husband lives, the
marriage remains binding, but if he is dead, the woman may marry again.
#BCV:Romans 7:3
<h3><verse=Romans 7:3>Romans 7:3</verse></h3>



So then if, while [her] husband liveth, she be married to another man, she shall be (a) called an
adulteress: but if her husband be dead, she is free from that law; so that she is no adulteress, though
she be married to another man.



(a) That is, she will be an adulteress, by the consent and judgment of all men.
#BCV:Romans 7:4
<h3><verse=Romans 7:4>Romans 7:4</verse></h3>




(2) Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the (b) body of Christ; that ye
should be married to another, [even] to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth



(c) fruit unto (d) God.



(2) An application of the similitude of marriage. "So", he says, "it is the same with us: for now we
are joined to the Spirit, as it were to the second husband, by whom we must bring forth new
children: we are dead with regard to the first husband, but with regard to the latter, we are as it were
raised from the dead."



(b) That is, in the body of Christ, to show us how intimate and near the fellowship is between Christ
and his members.



(c) He calls the children, which the wife has by her husband, fruit.



(d) Which are acceptable to God.
#BCV:Romans 7:5
<h3><verse=Romans 7:5>Romans 7:5</verse></h3>




(3) For when we (e) were in the flesh, the (f) motions of sins, which were by the (g) law, did (h) work
in our members to bring forth fruit unto death.

(3) A declaration of the former saying: for he says that the fleshly desires which the law stirred up in
us were in us as if they were a husband, from whom we brought forth very deadly and cursed
children: but now that husband is dead, and so consequently, being delivered from the force of that
<page=2852>killing law, we have passed into the control of the Spirit, so that we bring forth now, not those rotten
and dead children, but rather living children.



(e) When we were in the state of the first marriage, which he calls in the following verse the oldness
of the letter.



(f) The motions that urged us to sin, which show their force even in our minds.



(g) He does not say "of the law" but "by the law", because they spring from sin which dwells within
us, and take occasion to work in us in this way, by reason of the restraint that the law makes, not that
the fault is in the law, but in ourselves. (h) Worked by their strength.
#BCV:Romans 7:6
<h3><verse=Romans 7:6>Romans 7:6</verse></h3>



But now we are delivered from the law, that (i) being dead (k) wherein we were (l) held; that we
should serve in (m) newness of spirit, and not [in] the oldness of the (n) letter.



(i) As if he said, "The bond which bound us is dead, and has disappeared, in as much that the sin
which held us does not have anything to hold us with now."



(k) For this husband is within us.



(l) Satan is an unjust possessor, for he deceitfully brought us into bondage to sin and himself: and
yet nonetheless, as long as we are sinners, we sin willingly.



(m) As is appropriate for those who, after the death of their old husband, are joined to the Spirit,
the ones whom the Spirit of God has made new men.



(n) By the letter he means the law, with respect to that old condition: for before our will is shaped by
the Holy Spirit, the law speaks but to deaf men, and therefore it is dumb and dead to us, with regard
to the fulfilling of it.
#BCV:Romans 7:7
<h3><verse=Romans 7:7>Romans 7:7</verse></h3>




(4) What shall we say then? [Is] the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law:
for I had not known (o) lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.



(4) An objection: What then? Are the law and sin the same thing, and do they agree together? No, he
says: sin is reproved and condemned by the law. But because sin cannot abide to be reproved, and
was not in a manner felt until it was provoked and stirred up by the law, it takes occasion by this to
be more outrageous, and yet by no fault of the law.



(o) By the word "lust" in this place he does not mean evil lusts themselves, but the fountain from
which they come, for the heathen philosophers themselves condemned wicked lusts, though
somewhat poorly. But as for the fountain of lust, they could not so much as determine it, and yet it
is the very seat of the natural and unclean spot and filth.
#BCV:Romans 7:8
<h3><verse=Romans 7:8>Romans 7:8</verse></h3>

<page=2853>But sin, taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence. For
without the law sin [was] (p) dead.

(p) Though sin is in us, yet it is not known as sin, neither does it rage in the same way that it rages
after the law is known.
#BCV:Romans 7:9
<h3><verse=Romans 7:9>Romans 7:9</verse></h3>

(5) For I was alive without the (q) law once: but when the commandment (r) came, sin revived, and I
(s) died.

(5) He sets himself before us as an example, in whom all men may behold, first what they are by
nature before they earnestly think upon the law of God: that is, stupid, and prone to sin and
wickedness, without any true sense and feeling of sin, and second what manner of persons they
become, when their conscience is reproved by the testimony of the Law, that is, stubborn and more
inflamed with the desire for sin than they ever were before.

(q) When I did not know the law, then I thought that I indeed lived: for my conscience never
troubled me, because it was not aware of my disease.

(r) When I began to understand the commandment.

(s) In sin, or by sin.
#BCV:Romans 7:12
<h3><verse=Romans 7:12>Romans 7:12</verse></h3>

(6) Wherefore the law [is] holy, and the (t) commandment holy, and just, and good.

(6) The conclusion: that the law is holy in itself, and that all the fault is in us, the ones who abuse the
law.

(t) Concerning the commandment, not to covet.
#BCV:Romans 7:13
<h3><verse=Romans 7:13>Romans 7:13</verse></h3>




(7) Was then that which is good (u) made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might (x)
appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might (y)
become exceeding sinful.



(7) The proposition: that the law is not the cause of death, but our corrupt nature being with the law
not only discouraged, but also stirred up: and it took occasion by this to rebel, and the more that
things are forbidden it, the more it desires them, and the result of this is guiltiness, and occasion of
death.

<page=2854>(u) Does it bear the blame for my death?

(x) That sin might show itself to be sin, and betray itself to be that which it is indeed.

(y) As evil as it could be, showing all the venom it could.

#BCV:Romans 7:14
<h3><verse=Romans 7:14>Romans 7:14</verse></h3>

(8) For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.

(8) The law is the cause of this matter because the it requires a heavenly purity, but when men are
born, they are bondslaves of corruption, which they willingly serve.

#BCV:Romans 7:15
<h3><verse=Romans 7:15>Romans 7:15</verse></h3>

(9) For that which I do I (10) allow not: for what I (11) would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.

(9) He sets himself before us as an example, since he has been regenerated, and in whom may easily
appear the strife of the Spirit and the flesh, and therefore of the law of God, and our wickedness.
For since the law in a man who has not been regenerated brings forth only death, therefore in him it
may easily be accused: but seeing that in a man who is regenerated it brings forth good fruit, it better
appears that evil actions proceed not from the law but from sin, that is, from our corrupt nature:
and therefore the apostle teaches also what the true use of the law is by reproving sin in the
regenerated, unto the end of the chapter: as a little before (that is, from the seventh verse until now
<bcv=Rom 7:7-15>Rom 7:7-15</bcv>), he declared the use of it in those who are not regenerated.

(10) The deeds of my life, he says, are not in accordance to my will, rather they are contrary to it.
Therefore by the consent of my will with the law, and repugnancy with the deeds of my life, it
plainly appears that the law and a properly controlled will induce us to do one thing, but corruption,
which also has its seat in the regenerated, another thing.

(11) It is to be noted that the very same man is said to will and not to will, in different respects: that
is, he is said to will in that he is regenerated by grace: and not to will in that he is not regenerated, or
in that he is in the same state into which he was born. But because the part which is regenerated at
length becomes conqueror, therefore Paul, speaking on behalf of the regenerated, speaks in such a
way as if the corruption which willingly sins were something outside of a man: although afterward
he grants that this evil is in his flesh, or in his members.

#BCV:Romans 7:17
<h3><verse=Romans 7:17>Romans 7:17</verse></h3>

Now then it is no more I that do it, but (z) sin that dwelleth in me.

(z) That natural corruption, which adheres strongly even to those that are regenerated, and is not
completely gone.

#BCV:Romans 7:18
<h3><verse=Romans 7:18>Romans 7:18</verse></h3>

<page=2855>(12) For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with
me; but (a) [how] to perform that which is good I find not.

(12) This vice, or sin, or law of sin, wholly possesses those men who are not regenerated, and
hinders them or holds those back who are regenerated.

(a) This indeed is appropriate to the man whom the grace of God has made a new man: for where
the Spirit is not, how can there be any strife there?

#BCV:Romans 7:21
<h3><verse=Romans 7:21>Romans 7:21</verse></h3>

(13) I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.

(13) The conclusion: as the law of God exhorts to goodness, so does the law of sin (that is, the
corruption in which we are born) force us to wickedness: but the spirit, that is, our mind, in that it is
regenerated, coexists with the law of God: but the flesh, that is, the whole natural man, is bondslave
to the law of sin. Therefore, in short, wickedness and death are not of the law, but of sin, which
reigns in those that are not regenerated: for they neither wish to do good, neither do they do good,
but they wish and do evil: but in those that are regenerated, it strives against the spirit or law of the
mind, so that they cannot live at all as well as they want to, or be as free of sin as they want to.
#BCV:Romans 7:22
<h3><verse=Romans 7:22>Romans 7:22</verse></h3>



For I delight in the law of God after the (b) inward man:



(b) The inner man and the new man are the same, and are compared and contrasted with the old
man; and neither do these words "inward man" signify man's mind and reason, and the "old man"
the physical body that is subject to them, as the philosophers imagine: but by the outward man is
meant whatever is either without or within a man from top to bottom, as long as that man is not
born again by the grace of God.
#BCV:Romans 7:23
<h3><verse=Romans 7:23>Romans 7:23</verse></h3>



But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my (c) mind, and bringing me into
captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.



(c) The law of the mind in this place is not to be understood as referring to the mind as it is naturally,
and as our mind is from our birth, but of the mind which is renewed by the Spirit of God.
#BCV:Romans 7:24
<h3><verse=Romans 7:24>Romans 7:24</verse></h3>


<page=2856>(14) O (d) wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?

(14) It is a miserable thing to be yet in part subject to sin, which of its own nature makes us guilty of
death: but we must cry to the Lord, who will by death itself at length make us conquerors, as we are
already conquerors in Christ.

(d) Wearied with miserable and continual conflicts.
#BCV:Romans 7:25
<h3><verse=Romans 7:25>Romans 7:25</verse></h3>

I (e) thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I (f) myself serve the law of
God; but with the flesh the law of sin.

(e) He recovers himself, and shows us that he rests only in Christ.

(f) This is the true perfection of those that are born again, to confess that they are imperfect.

<h2>Romans 8</h2>

#BCV:Romans 8:1
<h3><verse=Romans 8:1>Romans 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=2857>[There is] (1) therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who (2) walk not
after the (a) flesh, but after the Spirit.

(1) A conclusion of all the former discussion, from (<bcv=Rom 1:16>Rom 1:16</bcv>) to this verse: seeing that we, being
justified by faith in Christ, obtain remission of sins and imputation of righteousness, and are also
sanctified, it follows from this that those who are grafted into Christ by faith, need have no fear of
condemnation. (2) The fruits of the Spirit, or effects of sanctification, which are begun in us, do not
ingraft us into Christ, but declare that we are grafted into him.

(a) Do not follow the flesh as their guide: for he is not said to live after the flesh that has the Holy
Spirit for his guide, even though he sometimes takes a step off of the path.
#BCV:Romans 8:2
<h3><verse=Romans 8:2>Romans 8:2</verse></h3>

(3) For the (b) law of the Spirit of (c) life in (d) Christ Jesus hath (e) made me free from the law of
sin and death.

(3) A preventing of an objection: seeing that the power of the Spirit is in us is so weakly, how may
we gather by this that there is no condemnation for those that have that power? Because, he says,
that power of the life-giving Spirit which is so weak in us, is most perfect and most mighty in Christ,
and being imputed to us who believe, causes us to be thought of as though there were no relics of
corruption and death in us. Therefore until now Paul reasons of remission of sins, and imputation
of fulfilling the Law, and also of sanctification which is begun in us: but now he speaks of the
perfect imputation of Christ's manhood, which part was necessarily required for the full appeasing
of our consciences: for our sins are destroyed by the blood of Christ, and the guiltiness of our
corruption is covered with the imputation of Christ's obedience, and the corruption itself (which
the apostle calls sinful sin) is healed in us little by little, by the gift of sanctification: but yet it is not
complete, in that it still lacks another remedy, that is, the perfect sanctification of Christ's own flesh,
which is also imputed to us.

(b) The power and authority of the Spirit, against which is set the tyranny of sin.

(c) Which kills the old man, and brings the new man to life.

(d) That is, absolutely and perfectly.

(e) For Christ's sanctification being imputed to us perfects our sanctification which is begun in us.

#BCV:Romans 8:3
<h3><verse=Romans 8:3>Romans 8:3</verse></h3>


<page=2858>(4) For what the law (f) could not do, in that it was weak through the (g) flesh, God sending his own
Son in the likeness of (h) sinful flesh, and for (i) sin, (k) condemned sin in the flesh:



(4) He does not use an argument here, but expounds the mystery of sanctification, which is imputed
to us: because, he says, the power of the law was not such (and that by reason of the corruption of
our nature) that it could make man pure and perfect, and because it rather kindled the flame of sin
than put it out and extinguish it, therefore God clothed his Son with flesh just like our sinful flesh,
in which he utterly abolished our corruption, that being accounted thoroughly pure and without
fault in him, apprehended and laid hold of by faith, we might be found to fully have the singular
perfection which the law requires, and therefore that there might be no condemnation in us.



(f) Which is not the fault of the law, but is due to our fault.



(g) In man when he is not born again, whose disease the law could point out, but it could not heal it.



(h) Of man's nature which is corrupt through sin, until Christ sanctified it.



(i) To abolish sin in our flesh.



(k) Showed that sin has no right to be in us.
#BCV:Romans 8:4
<h3><verse=Romans 8:4>Romans 8:4</verse></h3>



That the (l) righteousness of the law might be fulfilled (5) in us, who walk not after the flesh, but
after the Spirit.



(l) The very substance of the law of God might be fulfilled, or that same which the law requires,
that we may be found just before God: for if with our justification there is joined that sanctification
which is imputed to us, we are just, according to the perfect form which the Lord requires. (5) He
returns to that which he said, that the sanctification which is begun in us is a sure testimony of our
ingrafting into Christ, which is a most plentiful fruit of a godly and honest life.
#BCV:Romans 8:5
<h3><verse=Romans 8:5>Romans 8:5</verse></h3>




(6) For they that are after the (m) flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the
Spirit the things of the Spirit.



(6) A reason why walking after the flesh does not agree to those who are grafted into Christ, but to
walk after the Spirit agrees and is proper for them: because, he says, those who are after the flesh
savour the things of the flesh, but those who are after the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.



(m) They that live as the flesh leads them.
#BCV:Romans 8:6
<h3><verse=Romans 8:6>Romans 8:6</verse></h3>




(7) For to be carnally minded [is] death; but to be spiritually minded [is] life and peace.

<page=2859>(7) He demonstrates what follows from his argument: because whatever the flesh savours, that
brings about death: and whatever the Spirit savours, that is conducive to joy and everlasting life.
#BCV:Romans 8:7
<h3><verse=Romans 8:7>Romans 8:7</verse></h3>



(8) Because the carnal mind [is] enmity against God: (9) for it is not subject to the law of God,
neither indeed can be.



(8) A reason and proof why the wisdom of the flesh is death: because, he says, it is the enemy of
God. (9) A reason why the wisdom of the flesh is enmity to God, because it neither wants to nor
can be subject to him, and by flesh he means a man that is not regenerated.
#BCV:Romans 8:8
<h3><verse=Romans 8:8>Romans 8:8</verse></h3>




(10) So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.



(10) The conclusion. Therefore they that walk after the flesh cannot please God: by which it follows
that they are not grafted into Christ.
#BCV:Romans 8:9
<h3><verse=Romans 8:9>Romans 8:9</verse></h3>




(11) But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if
any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.

(11) He addresses the others, that is, those who walk after the Spirit, of whom we have to
understand contrary things to the former: and first of all, he defines what it is to be in the Spirit, or
to be sanctified: that is, to have the Spirit of God dwelling in us. Then he declares that sanctification
is so joined and knit to our grafting into Christ, that it can by no means be separated.

#BCV:Romans 8:10
<h3><verse=Romans 8:10>Romans 8:10</verse></h3>

(12) And if Christ [be] in you, the (n) body [is] dead because of sin; but the Spirit [is] life because of
righteousness.

(12) He confirms the faithful against the relics of flesh and sin, granting that these things are yet (as
appears by the corruption which is in them) having effects on one of their parts (which he calls the
body, that is to say, a lump) which is not yet purged from this earthly filthiness in death: but in
addition not wanting to doubt at all of the happy success of this combat, because even this little
spark of the Spirit (that is, of the grace of regeneration), which is evidently in them as appears by
the fruits of righteousness, is the seed of life.

(n) The flesh, or all that which as yet remains fast in the grips of sin and death.

#BCV:Romans 8:11
<h3><verse=Romans 8:11>Romans 8:11</verse></h3>
(13) But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ 
from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that (o) dwelleth in you.

(13) A confirmation of the former sentence. You have the very same Spirit which Christ has:
therefore at length he will do the same in you, that he did in Christ, that is, when all infirmities being
utterly laid aside, and death overcome, he will clothe you with heavenly glory.

(o) By the strength and power of him, who showed the same might first in our head, and daily
works in his members.
#BCV:Romans 8:12
<h3><verse=Romans 8:12>Romans 8:12</verse></h3>

(14) Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh.

(14) An exhortation to oppress the flesh daily more and more by the power of the Spirit of
regeneration, because (he says) you are debtors to God, in that you have received so many benefits
from him.
#BCV:Romans 8:13
<h3><verse=Romans 8:13>Romans 8:13</verse></h3>


(15) For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the
body, ye shall live.

(15) Another reason for the profit that follows: for those who battle and fight valiantly will have
everlasting life.
#BCV:Romans 8:14
<h3><verse=Romans 8:14>Romans 8:14</verse></h3>

(16) For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.

(16) A confirmation of this reason: for they are the children of God who are governed by his Spirit,
therefore they will have everlasting life.
#BCV:Romans 8:15
<h3><verse=Romans 8:15>Romans 8:15</verse></h3>

(17) For ye have not received the (p) spirit of bondage again (q) to fear; but ye have received the
Spirit of (r) adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

(17) He declares and expounds (as an aside) in these two verses by what right this name, to be called
the children of God, is given to the believers: and it is because, he says, they have received the grace
of the gospel, in which God shows himself, not (as before in the proclaiming of the law) terrible
and fearful, but a most gentle and loving Father in Christ, so that with great boldness we call him
Father, the Holy Spirit sealing this adoption in our hearts by faith.

<page=2861>(p) By the "Spirit" is meant the Holy Spirit whom we are said to receive, when he works in our
minds.

(q) Which fear the Spirit stirred up in our minds by the preaching of the law.

(r) Who seals our adoption in our minds, and therefore opens our mouths.
#BCV:Romans 8:17
<h3><verse=Romans 8:17>Romans 8:17</verse></h3>


(18) And if children, then (s) heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; (19) if so be that we
suffer with [him], that we may be also glorified together.



(18) A proof of what follows from the confirmation: because he who is the son of God enjoys God
with Christ.



(s) Partakers of our Father's goods, and that freely, because we are children by adoption.



(19) Now Paul teaches by what way the sons of God come to that happiness, that is, by the cross, as
Christ himself did: and in addition declares to them fountains of comfort: firstly, that we have
Christ a companion and associate of our afflictions: secondly, that we will also be his companions in
everlasting glory.
#BCV:Romans 8:18
<h3><verse=Romans 8:18>Romans 8:18</verse></h3>




(20) For I (t) reckon that the sufferings of this present time [are] not worthy [to be compared] with
the glory which shall be revealed in us.



(20) Thirdly, that this glory which we look for surpasses a thousand times the misery of our
afflictions.



(t) All being well considered, I gather.
#BCV:Romans 8:19
<h3><verse=Romans 8:19>Romans 8:19</verse></h3>




(21) For the earnest expectation of the (u) creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of
God.



(21) Fourthly, he plainly teaches us that we will certainly be renewed from that confusion and
horrible deformation of the whole world, which cannot be continual, as it was not this way at the
beginning: but as it had a beginning by the sin of man, for whom it was made by the ordinance of
God, so will it at length be restored with the elect.



(u) All this world.
#BCV:Romans 8:20
<h3><verse=Romans 8:20>Romans 8:20</verse></h3>

<page=2862>For the creature was made subject to (x) vanity, not (y) willingly, but by reason (z) of him who hath
subjected [the same] in (a) hope,

(x) Is subject to a vanishing and disappearing state.



(y) Not by their natural inclination.



(z) That they should obey the Creator's commandment, whom it pleased to show by their sickly state,
how greatly he was displeased with man.



(a) God would not make the world subject to be cursed forever because of the sin of man, but gave
it hope that it would be restored.
#BCV:Romans 8:21
<h3><verse=Romans 8:21>Romans 8:21</verse></h3>



Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the (b) bondage of corruption into the
glorious liberty of the children of God.



(b) From the corruption which they are now subject to, they will be delivered and changed into the
blessed state of incorruption, which will be revealed when the sons of God will be advanced to
glory.
#BCV:Romans 8:22
<h3><verse=Romans 8:22>Romans 8:22</verse></h3>



For we know that the whole creation groaneth and (c) travaileth in pain together until now.



(c) By this word is meant not only exceeding sorrow, but also the fruit that follows from it.
#BCV:Romans 8:23
<h3><verse=Romans 8:23>Romans 8:23</verse></h3>




(22) And not only [they], but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we
ourselves groan within (d) ourselves, waiting for the adoption, [to wit], (e) the redemption of our
body.



(22) Fifthly, if the rest of the world looks for a restoring, groaning as it were for it and that not in
vain, let us also sigh, indeed, let us be more certainly persuaded of our redemption to come, for we
already have the first fruits of the Spirit.



(d) Even from the bottom of our hearts.



(e) The last restoring, which will be the accomplishment of our adoption.
#BCV:Romans 8:24
<h3><verse=Romans 8:24>Romans 8:24</verse></h3>




(23) For we are saved by hope: but (f) hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth
he yet hope for?

<page=2863>(23) Sixthly, hope is necessarily joined with faith: seeing then that we believe those things which we
are not yet in possession of, and hope does not refer to the thing that is present, we must therefore
hope and patiently wait for that which we believe will come to pass.

(f) This is spoken by the figure of speech metonymy, that is, "hope", which stands for that which is
hoped for.
#BCV:Romans 8:26
<h3><verse=Romans 8:26>Romans 8:26</verse></h3>




(24) Likewise the Spirit also (g) helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as
we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh (h) intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.



(24) Seventhly, there is no reason why we should faint under the burden of afflictions, seeing that
prayers minister to us a most sure help: which cannot be frustrated, seeing that they proceed from
the Spirit of God who dwells in us.



(g) Bears our burden, as it were, so that we do not faint under it.



(h) Incites us to pray, and tells us as it were within, what we will say, and how we will speak.
#BCV:Romans 8:27
<h3><verse=Romans 8:27>Romans 8:27</verse></h3>



And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what [is] the (i) mind of the Spirit, because he maketh
intercession for the saints (k) according to [the will of] God.



(i) What sighs and sobs proceed from the impulse of his Spirit.



(k) Because he teaches the godly to pray according to God's will.
#BCV:Romans 8:28
<h3><verse=Romans 8:28>Romans 8:28</verse></h3>




(25) And we know that (l) all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are
the called according to [his] (m) purpose.



(25) Eighthly, we are not afflicted, either by chance or to our harm, but by God's providence for our
great profit: who as he chose us from the beginning, so has he predestined us to be made similar to
the image of his Son: and therefore will bring us in his time, being called and justified, to glory, by
the cross.



(l) Not only afflictions, but whatever else.



(m) He calls that "purpose" which God has from everlasting appointed with himself, according to
his good will and pleasure.
#BCV:Romans 8:30
<h3><verse=Romans 8:30>Romans 8:30</verse></h3>

<page=2864>Moreover whom he did (n) predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also
justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.

(n) He uses the past tense for the present time, as the Hebrews use, who sometimes describe
something that is to come by using the past tense, to signify the certainty of it: and he also is
referring to God's continual working.
#BCV:Romans 8:31
<h3><verse=Romans 8:31>Romans 8:31</verse></h3>




(26) What shall we then say to these things? If God [be] for us, who [can be] against us?



(26) Ninethly, we have no reason to fear that the Lord will not give us whatever is profitable for us,
seeing that he has not spared his own Son to save us.
#BCV:Romans 8:32
<h3><verse=Romans 8:32>Romans 8:32</verse></h3>



He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also
freely (o) give us all things?



(o) Give us freely.
#BCV:Romans 8:33
<h3><verse=Romans 8:33>Romans 8:33</verse></h3>




(27) Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? [It is] (p) God that justifieth.



(27) A most glorious and comfortable conclusion of the whole second part of this epistle, that is of
the treatise of justification. There are no accusers that we have need to be afraid of before God,
seeing that God himself absolves us as just: and therefore much less need we to fear damnation,
seeing that we rest upon the death and resurrection, the almighty power and defence of Jesus Christ.
Therefore what can there be so weighty in this life, or of so great force and power, that might cause
us to fear, as though we might fall from the love of God, with which he loves us in Christ? Surely
nothing, seeing that it is in itself most constant and sure, and also in us being confirmed by steadfast
faith.



(p) Who pronounces us not only guiltless, but also perfectly just in his Son.
#BCV:Romans 8:35
<h3><verse=Romans 8:35>Romans 8:35</verse></h3>



Who shall separate us from the love of (q) Christ? [shall] tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or
famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?



(q) With which Christ loves us.
#BCV:Romans 8:37
<h3><verse=Romans 8:37>Romans 8:37</verse></h3>


<page=2865>(r) Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

(r) We not only overcome so great and many miseries and calamities, but are also more than
conquerors in all of them.

<h2>Romans 9</h2>

#BCV:Romans 9:1
<h3><verse=Romans 9:1>Romans 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=2866>I say (1) the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,

(1) The third part of this epistle, which goes to the twelfth chapter, in which Paul ascends to the
higher causes of faith: and first of all, because he purposed to speak much of the casting off of the
Jews, he uses a declaration, saying by a double or triple oath, and by witnessing of his great desire
towards their salvation, his singular love towards them, and in addition granting to them all their
privileges.
#BCV:Romans 9:3
<h3><verse=Romans 9:3>Romans 9:3</verse></h3>



For I could wish that myself were (a) accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according
to the (b) flesh:



(a) The apostle loved his brethren so completely that if it had been possible he would have been
ready to have redeemed the castaways of the Israelites with the loss of his own soul forever: for this
word "accursed" signifies as much in this place.



(b) Being brethren by flesh, as from one nation and country.
#BCV:Romans 9:4
<h3><verse=Romans 9:4>Romans 9:4</verse></h3>



Who are Israelites; to whom [pertaineth] the adoption, and the (c) glory, and the (d) covenants, and
the giving of the (e) law, and the (f) service [of God], and the (g) promises;



(c) The ark of the covenant, which was a token of God's presence.



(d) The tables of the covenant, and this is spoken by the figure of speech metonymy.



(e) Of the judicial law.



(f) The ceremonial law.



(g) Which were made to Abraham and to his posterity.
#BCV:Romans 9:5
<h3><verse=Romans 9:5>Romans 9:5</verse></h3>



Whose [are] the fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ [came], (2) who is over all, God
blessed for ever. Amen.



(2) Or, "who is God over all, blessed for ever." A most manifest testimony of the Godhead and
divinity of Christ.
#BCV:Romans 9:6
<h3><verse=Romans 9:6>Romans 9:6</verse></h3>


<page=2867>(3) Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect. For they [are] not all (h) Israel, which
are of Israel:

(3) He enters into the handling of predestination, by means of presenting an objection: How may it
be that Israel is cast off, and that in addition we must also make the covenant which God made with
Abraham and his seed, frustrated and void? He answers therefore that God's word is true, although
Israel is cast off: for the election of the people of Israel is so general and common, that nonetheless
the same God chooses by his secret council those as it pleases him. So then this is the proposition
and state of this treatise: the grace of salvation is offered generally in such a way, that in spite of
how it is offered, the efficacy of it pertains only to the elect.



(h) Israel in the first place, is taken for Jacob: and in the second, for the Israelites.
#BCV:Romans 9:7
<h3><verse=Romans 9:7>Romans 9:7</verse></h3>



Neither, because they are the seed of Abraham, [are they] all children: (4) but, In (i) Isaac shall thy
seed be called.



(4) The first proof is taken from the example of Abraham's own house, in which Isaac only was
considered the son, and that by God's ordinance: although Ishmael also was born of Abraham, and
circumcised before Isaac.



(i) Isaac will be your true and natural son, and therefore heir of the blessing.
#BCV:Romans 9:8
<h3><verse=Romans 9:8>Romans 9:8</verse></h3>




(5) That is, They which are the children of the (k) flesh, these [are] not the children of God: but the
children of the (l) promise are counted for the seed.



(5) A general application of the former proof or example.



(k) Who are born of Abraham by the course of nature.



(l) Who are born by virtue of the promise.
#BCV:Romans 9:9
<h3><verse=Romans 9:9>Romans 9:9</verse></h3>




(6) For this [is] the word of promise, At this time will I come, and Sara shall have a son.



(6) A reason of that application: because Isaac was born by the power of the promise, and therefore
he was not chosen, no, he was not at all, except by the free will of God: by which it follows that the
promise is the fountain of predestination, and not the flesh, from which promise the particular
<page=2868>election proceeds, that is, that the elect are born elect, and not that they are first born, and then after
elected, by God who predestinates.

#BCV:Romans 9:10
<h3><verse=Romans 9:10>Romans 9:10</verse></h3>




(7) And not only [this]; but when Rebecca also had conceived by one, [even] by our father Isaac;



(7) Another strong and persuasive proof taken from the example of Esau and Jacob, who were both
born of the same Isaac, who was the son of promise of one mother, and were born at the same
time, and not at different times as Ishmael and Isaac were: and yet nonetheless, as Esau was cast off,
only Jacob was chosen: and that before their birth, that neither any goodness of Jacob's might be
thought to be the cause of his election, neither any wickedness of Esau to be the cause of his
casting away.
#BCV:Romans 9:11
<h3><verse=Romans 9:11>Romans 9:11</verse></h3>




(For [the children] being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the (m) purpose of
God according to election might (8) stand, not of works, but of him that calleth;)



(m) God's decree which proceeds from only his good will, by which it pleases him to choose one,
and refuse the other. (8) Paul does not say, "might be made", but "being made might remain".
Therefore they are deceived who make foreseen faith the cause of election, and foreknown infidelity
the cause of reprobation.
#BCV:Romans 9:12
<h3><verse=Romans 9:12>Romans 9:12</verse></h3>




(9) It was said unto her, The elder shall serve the younger.



(9) He proves the casting away of Esau in that he was made servant to his brother: and proves the
choosing of Jacob in that he was made lord of his brother, although his brother was the first
begotten. And in order that no man might take what God had said, and refer it to external things,
the apostle shows out of Malachi, who is a good interpreter of Moses, that the servitude of Esau
was joined with the hatred of God, and the lordship of Jacob with the love of God.
#BCV:Romans 9:14
<h3><verse=Romans 9:14>Romans 9:14</verse></h3>




(10) What shall we say then? [Is there] (n) unrighteousness with God? God forbid.



(10) The first objection: if God loves or hates without any consideration of worthiness or
unworthiness, then is he unjust, because he may love those who are unworthy, and hate those who
are worthy? The apostle detests this blasphemy, and afterward responds to it in depth, point by point.



(n) Man knows no other causes of love or hatred, but those that are in the persons, and thereupon
this objection arises.
#BCV:Romans 9:15
<h3><verse=Romans 9:15>Romans 9:15</verse></h3>


<page=2869>(11) For he saith to Moses, I will (o) have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have (p)
compassion on whom I will have compassion.

(11) He answers first with regard to those who are chosen to salvation, in the choosing of whom he
denies that God may seem unjust, although he chooses and predestinates to salvation those that are
not yet born, without any respect of worthiness: because he does not bring the chosen to the
appointed end except by the means of his mercy, which is a cause discussed under predestination.
Now mercy presupposes misery, and again, misery presupposes sin or voluntary corruption of
mankind, and corruption presupposes a pure and perfect creation. Moreover, mercy is shown by her
degrees: that is, by calling, by faith, by justification and sanctification, so that at length we come to
glorification, as the apostle will show afterwards. Now all these things orderly following the purpose
of God, do clearly prove that he can by no means seem unjust in loving and saving his.



(o) I will be merciful and favourable to whom I wish to be favourable.



(p) I will have compassion on whoever I wish to have compassion.
#BCV:Romans 9:16
<h3><verse=Romans 9:16>Romans 9:16</verse></h3>




(12) So then [it is] not of him that (q) willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth
mercy.



(12) The conclusion of the answer: therefore God is not unjust in choosing and saving from his free
goodness, such as it pleases him: as he also answered Moses when he prayed for all of the people.



(q) By "will" he means the thought and endeavour of heart, and by "running", good works, to
neither of which he gives the praise, but only to the mercy of God.
#BCV:Romans 9:17
<h3><verse=Romans 9:17>Romans 9:17</verse></h3>




(13) For the (r) scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I (s) raised thee up,
that I might (14) shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the
earth.



(13) Now he answers concerning the reprobate, or those whom God hates who are not yet born,
and has appointed to destruction, without any respect of unworthiness. And first of all he proves
this to be true, by alleging the testimony of God himself concerning Pharaoh, whom he stirred up
to this purpose, that he might be glorified in Pharaoh's hardening and just punishing.

(r) God speaks unto Pharaoh in the scripture, or, the scripture in talking about God, in this way talks
to Pharaoh.

(s) Brought you into this world.

<page=2870>(14) Secondly, he brings the goal of God's counsel, to show that there is no unrighteousness in him.
Now the main goal is not properly and simply the destruction of the wicked, but God's glory which
appears in their rightful punishment.

#BCV:Romans 9:18
<h3><verse=Romans 9:18>Romans 9:18</verse></h3>

(15) Therefore hath he mercy on whom he (t) will [have mercy], and whom he will he hardeneth.

(15) A conclusion of the full answer to the first objection: therefore seeing that God does not save
those whom he freely chose according to his good will and pleasure, but by justifying and sanctifying
them by his grace, his counsels in saving them cannot seem unjust. And again, there is not injustice
in the everlasting counsel of God, with regard to the destruction of those whom he lifts to destroy,
because he hardens before he destroys: therefore the third answer for the maintenance of God's
justice in the everlasting counsel of reprobation, consists in this word "hardening": which
nonetheless he concealed in the former verse, because the history of Pharaoh was well known. But
the force of the word is great, for hardening, which is set against "mercy", presupposes the same
things that mercy did, that is, a voluntary corruption, in which the reprobate are hardened: and again,
corruption presupposes a perfect state of creation. Moreover, this hardening also is voluntary, for
God hardens in such a way, being offended with corruption, that he uses their own will whom he
hardens, for the executing of that judgment. Then follow the fruits of hardening, that is, unbelief
and sin, which are the true and proper causes of the condemnation of the reprobate. Why does he
then appoint to destruction? Because he wishes: why does he harden? Because they are corrupt: why
does he condemn? Because they are sinners. Where then is unrighteousness? Nay, if he would
destroy all after this manner, to whom would he do injury?



(t) Whom it pleased him to appoint, to show his favour upon.
#BCV:Romans 9:19
<h3><verse=Romans 9:19>Romans 9:19</verse></h3>




(16) Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?



(16) Another objection, but only for the reprobate, rising upon the former answer. If God appoints
to everlasting destruction, such as he wishes, and if that which he has decreed cannot be hindered
nor withstood, how does he justly condemn those who perish by his will?
#BCV:Romans 9:20
<h3><verse=Romans 9:20>Romans 9:20</verse></h3>




(17) Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? (18) Shall the thing (u) formed say to
him that formed [it], Why hast thou made me thus?



(17) The apostle does not answer that it is not God's will, or that God does not either reject or elect
according to his pleasure, which thing the wicked call blasphemy, but he rather grants his adversary
both the antecedents, that is, that it is God's will, and that is must of necessity so happen, yet he
<page=2871>denies that God is therefore to be thought an unjust avenger of the wicked: for seeing that it
appears by manifest proof that this is the will of God, and his doing, what impudency is it for man,
who is but dust and ashes, to dispute with God, and as it were to call him into judgment? Now if
any man say that the doubt is not so dissolved and answered, I answer, that there is no surer
demonstration in any matter, because it is grounded upon this principle, that the will of God is the
rule of righteousness.



(18) An amplification of the former answer, taken from a comparison, by which it also appears that
God's determinate counsel is set by Paul as the highest of all causes: so that it depends not in any
way on the second causes, but rather shapes and directs them.



(u) This similitude agrees very properly to the first creation of mankind.
#BCV:Romans 9:21
<h3><verse=Romans 9:21>Romans 9:21</verse></h3>




(19) Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one (20) vessel unto (x)
honour, and another unto (21) dishonour?



(19) Alluding to the creation of Adam, he compares mankind not yet made (but who are in the
creators mind) to a lump of clay: who afterwards God made, and daily makes, according as he
purposed from everlasting, both such as should be elect, and such as should be reprobate, as also
this word "make" declares.



(20) Whereas in the objection propounded, mention was only made of vessels to dishonour, yet he
speaks of the others also in this answer, because he proves the Creator to be just in either of them.



(x) To honest uses.



(21) Seeing then, that in the name of dishonour the shame of everlasting death is signified, those
agree with Paul, who say that some are made by God for most just destruction: and they that are
offended with this kind of speech betray their own folly.
#BCV:Romans 9:22
<h3><verse=Romans 9:22>Romans 9:22</verse></h3>




(22) [What] if God, willing to shew [his] wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much
longsuffering the (y) vessels of wrath fitted to (23) destruction:



(22) The second answer is this, that God, moreover and besides that he justly decrees whatever he
decrees, uses that moderation in executing his decrees, as is declared his singular mercifulness even
in the reprobate, in that he endures them a long time, and permits them to enjoy many and singular
benefits, until at length he justly condemns them: and that to good end and purpose, that is, to show
himself to be an enemy and avenger of wickedness, that it may appear what power he has by these
severe judgments, and finally by comparison of contraries to set forth indeed, how great his mercy is
towards the elect.



(y) By vessels, the Hebrews understand all types of instruments.

<page=2872>(23) Therefore again, we may say with Paul, that some men are made by God the creator for
destruction.

#BCV:Romans 9:23
<h3><verse=Romans 9:23>Romans 9:23</verse></h3>



And that he might make known the (z) riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had
afore prepared unto glory,



(z) The unmeasurable and marvellous greatness.
#BCV:Romans 9:24
<h3><verse=Romans 9:24>Romans 9:24</verse></h3>




(24) Even us, whom he hath called, not of the (a) Jews only, but also of the Gentiles?



(24) Having established the doctrine of the eternal predestination of God on both parts, that is, on
the part of the reprobate as well as of the elect, he comes now to show its use, teaching us that we
ought not to seek its testimony in the secret counsel of God, but by the calling which is made
manifest, and set forth in the Church, propounding to us the example of the Jews and Gentiles, that
the doctrine may be better perceived.



(a) He does not say that each and every one of the Jews are called, but some of the Jews, and some
of the Gentiles.
#BCV:Romans 9:25
<h3><verse=Romans 9:25>Romans 9:25</verse></h3>




(25) As he saith also in Osee, I will call them my people, which were not my people; and her beloved,
which was not beloved.



(25) Our vocation or calling is free, and of grace, even as our predestination is: and therefore there is
no reason why either our own unworthiness, or the unworthiness of our ancestors should cause us
to think that we are not the elect and chosen of God, if we are called by him, and so embrace
through faith the salvation that is offered us.
#BCV:Romans 9:27
<h3><verse=Romans 9:27>Romans 9:27</verse></h3>




(26) Esaias also crieth concerning Israel, Though the number of the children of Israel be as the sand
of the sea, a remnant shall be saved:



(26) Contrary to this, neither any outward general calling, neither any worthiness of our ancestors, is
a sufficient witness of election, unless by faith and belief we answer God's calling: which thing came
to pass in the Jews, as the Lord had foretold.
#BCV:Romans 9:28
<h3><verse=Romans 9:28>Romans 9:28</verse></h3>

<page=2873>For he will finish the work, and cut [it] (b) short in righteousness: because a short work will the Lord
make upon the earth.

(b) God chooses and goes about to reduce the unkind and unthankful people to a very small number.
#BCV:Romans 9:29
<h3><verse=Romans 9:29>Romans 9:29</verse></h3>



And as Esaias said before, Except the Lord of (c) Sabaoth had left us a (d) seed, we had been as
Sodoma, and been made like unto Gomorrha.



(c) Armies, by which word the greatest power that exists is attributed to God.



(d) Even as very few.
#BCV:Romans 9:30
<h3><verse=Romans 9:30>Romans 9:30</verse></h3>




(27) What shall we say then? That the Gentiles, which followed (e) not after righteousness, have
attained to righteousness, even the righteousness which is of faith.



(27) The declaration and manifestation of our election is our calling apprehended by faith, as it came
to pass in the Gentiles.



(e) So then, the Gentiles had no works to prepare and procure God's mercy before hand: and that
the Gentiles attained to that which they did not seek, the mercy of God is to be thanked for it: and
in that the Jews did not attain that which they sought after, they can only thank themselves, because
they did not seek for it in the proper way.
#BCV:Romans 9:31
<h3><verse=Romans 9:31>Romans 9:31</verse></h3>




(28) But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of
righteousness.



(28) The pride of men is the reason that they reject their calling, so that the cause of their
damnation need not to be sought for in any other place but themselves.
#BCV:Romans 9:32
<h3><verse=Romans 9:32>Romans 9:32</verse></h3>



Wherefore? Because [they sought it] not by faith, but as it were by the (s) works of the law. For they
stumbled at that stumblingstone;



(s) Seeking to attain righteousness, they followed the law of righteousness.

<h2>Romans 10</h2>

#BCV:Romans 10:1
<h3><verse=Romans 10:1>Romans 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=2874>Brethren, (1) my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved.

(1) Purposing to set forth in the Jews an example of marvellous obstinacy, he uses this declaration.
#BCV:Romans 10:3
<h3><verse=Romans 10:3>Romans 10:3</verse></h3>




(2) For they (a) being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to (b) establish their own
righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.



(2) The first entrance into the calling to salvation, is to renounce our own righteousness by faith,
which God freely offers us in the Gospel.



(a) The ignorance of the law (which we ought to know) does not excuse anyone before God,
especially those that are of his household.



(b) Ignorance always has pride associated with it.
#BCV:Romans 10:4
<h3><verse=Romans 10:4>Romans 10:4</verse></h3>




(3) For Christ [is] the (c) end of the law for righteousness to (d) every one that believeth.



(3) The proof: the law itself points to Christ, that those who believe in him should be saved.
Therefore the calling to salvation by the works of the law, is vain and foolish: but Christ is offered
for salvation to every believer.



(c) The end of the law is to justify those that keep the law: but seeing that we do not observe the law
through the fault of our flesh, we do not attain this end: but Christ heals this disease, for he fulfils
the law for us.



(d) Not only to the Jews, but also to the Gentiles.
#BCV:Romans 10:5
<h3><verse=Romans 10:5>Romans 10:5</verse></h3>




(4) For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, That the man which doeth those
things shall live by them.



(4) That the law is points to Christ and is inclined to him is manifestly proved, because it propounds
such a condition as can be and is fulfilled, by none but Christ alone: which being imputed to us by
faith, our conscience is quieted, so that now no man can ask, "Who can ascend up into heaven, or
bring us from hell?", seeing that the gospel teaches that both of these is done by Christ and that for
their sake's, who with true faith embrace him who calls them.
#BCV:Romans 10:6
<h3><verse=Romans 10:6>Romans 10:6</verse></h3>

<page=2875>But the righteousness which is of faith speaketh on this wise, (e) Say not in thine heart, Who shall
ascend into heaven? (that is, to bring Christ down [from above]:)

(e) Do not think to yourself, as men that are doubting do.
#BCV:Romans 10:8
<h3><verse=Romans 10:8>Romans 10:8</verse></h3>




(5) But what saith it? The (f) word is nigh thee, [even] in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the
word of faith, which we preach;



(5) Calling comes by the word preached.



(f) By "word", Moses understood the law which the Lord proclaimed with his own voice: and Paul
applied it to the preaching of the Gospel, which was the perfection of the law.
#BCV:Romans 10:9
<h3><verse=Romans 10:9>Romans 10:9</verse></h3>




(6) That if thou shalt (g) confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that



(h) God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.



(6) That is indeed true faith which is settled not only in the head, but also in the heart of man, of
which we also give testimony by our outward life, and which serves Christ as our one and only
Saviour, even as he sets forth himself in his word.



(g) If you profess plainly, sincerely, and openly, that you take Jesus alone to be thy Lord and Saviour.



(h) The Father, who is said to have raised the Son from the dead: and this is not spoken to exclude
the divinity of the Son, but to set forth the Father's plan, with regard to our redemption in the
resurrection of the Son.
#BCV:Romans 10:10
<h3><verse=Romans 10:10>Romans 10:10</verse></h3>



For with the heart man (i) believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made
unto salvation.



(i) Faith is said to justify, and furthermore seeing the confession of the mouth is an effect of faith,
and confession in the way to come to salvation, it follows that faith is also said to save.
#BCV:Romans 10:11
<h3><verse=Romans 10:11>Romans 10:11</verse></h3>




(7) For the scripture saith, Whosoever (k) believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

<page=2876>(7) Now he proves the other part which he propounded before in the fourth verse, that is, that
Christ calls whoever he wishes without any difference, and this confirms by a twofold testimony,
(<bcv=Rom 10:4>Rom 10:4</bcv>).

(k) To believe in God is to yield and consent to God's promise of our salvation by Christ, and that
not only in general, but when we know that the promises pertain to us, from which arises a sure
trust.
#BCV:Romans 10:13
<h3><verse=Romans 10:13>Romans 10:13</verse></h3>




(8) For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.



(8) True calling upon the name of God is the testimony of true faith, and true faith of true vocation
or calling, and true calling of true election.
#BCV:Romans 10:14
<h3><verse=Romans 10:14>Romans 10:14</verse></h3>



How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? (9) and how shall they believe in
him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?



(9) That is, true faith, which seeks God in his word, and that preached: and this preaching God has
appointed in the Church.
#BCV:Romans 10:16
<h3><verse=Romans 10:16>Romans 10:16</verse></h3>




(10) But they have not (l) all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?



(10) Wherever faith is, there is also the word, but not the opposite, namely, wherever the word is,
there may not necessarily be faith: for many refuse and reject the word.



(l) He says this because of the Jews.
#BCV:Romans 10:17
<h3><verse=Romans 10:17>Romans 10:17</verse></h3>




(11) So then faith [cometh] by hearing, and hearing by the (m) word of God.



(11) A conclusion of the former discussion: we must ascend from faith to our calling, for by our
calling we came to the testimony of our election.



(m) By God's commandment.
#BCV:Romans 10:18
<h3><verse=Romans 10:18>Romans 10:18</verse></h3>




(12) But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words
unto the ends of the world.

<page=2877>(12) An objection: if calling is a testimony of election, were not the Jews called? Why should I not
grant that, says the apostle, seeing that there is no nation which has not been called? Much less can I
say that the Jews were not called.

#BCV:Romans 10:19
<h3><verse=Romans 10:19>Romans 10:19</verse></h3>




(13) But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by (n) [them
that are] no people, [and] by a foolish nation I will anger you.



(13) The defender and maintainer of the Jew's cause goes on still to ask whether the Jews also did
not know God, the one who called them. Isaiah, says the apostle, denies it: and witnesses that the
Gospel was taken from them and given to the Gentiles, because the Jews rejected it. In addition the
apostle teaches that the outward and universal calling, which is set forth by the creation of the world,
is not sufficient for the knowledge of God: indeed, and that the particular calling also which is by
the preaching of the word of God, is of itself of little or no efficacy, unless it is apprehended or laid
hold of by faith, which is the gift of God: otherwise by unbelief it is made unprofitable, and that by
the only fault of man, who can pretend no ignorance.



(n) He calls all profane people "[them that are] no people", as they are not said to live but to die,
who are appointed for everlasting condemnation.
#BCV:Romans 10:20
<h3><verse=Romans 10:20>Romans 10:20</verse></h3>



But Esaias is very (o) bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest
unto them that asked not after me.



(o) Speaks without fear.

<h2>Romans 11</h2>

#BCV:Romans 11:1
<h3><verse=Romans 11:1>Romans 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=2878>I say then, (1) Hath God cast away his people? God forbid. For (2) I also am an Israelite, of the seed
of Abraham, [of] the tribe of Benjamin.

(1) Now the apostle shows how this doctrine is to be applied to others, remaining still in his
propounded cause. Therefore he teaches us that all the Jews in particular are not cast away, and
therefore we ought not to pronounce rashly of individual persons, whether they are of the number
of the elect or not. (2) The first proof: I am a Jew, and yet elected, therefore we may and ought fully
to be sure of our election, as has been said before: but of another man's we cannot be so certainly
sure, and yet ours may cause us to hope well of others.
#BCV:Romans 11:2
<h3><verse=Romans 11:2>Romans 11:2</verse></h3>




(3) God hath not cast away his people which he (a) foreknew. (4) Wot ye not what the scripture saith
of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying,



(3) The second proof: because God is faithful in his league or covenant, even though men are
unfaithful: so then, seeing that God has said that he will be the God of his own to a thousand
generations, we must take heed that we do not think that the whole race and offspring is cast off, by
reason of the unbelief of a few, but rather that we hope well of every member of the Church.



(a) Whom he loved and chose from eternity past. (4) The third proof taken from the answer that
was made to Elijah: even then also, when there appeared openly to the face of the world no elect,
yet God knew his elect and chosen, and also that they were a great amount and number. Whereupon
this also is concluded, that we ought not rashly to pronounce of any that he is a reprobate, seeing
that the Church is often brought to that state, that even the most watchful and sharp-sighted pastors,
think that it is completely extinct and put out.
#BCV:Romans 11:4
<h3><verse=Romans 11:4>Romans 11:4</verse></h3>



But what saith the answer of God unto him? I have (b) reserved to myself seven thousand men,
who have not bowed the knee to [the image of] (c) Baal.

(b) He speaks of remnants and reserved people who were chosen from everlasting, and not of
remnants that should be chosen afterwards: for they are not chosen, because they were not idolaters:
but rather they were not idolaters, because they were chosen and elect.

(c) "Baal" signifies as much as "master" or "patron", or one in whose power another is, which name
the idolaters in this day give their idols, naming them "patrons", and "patronesses" or "ladies".
#BCV:Romans 11:5
<h3><verse=Romans 11:5>Romans 11:5</verse></h3>

Even so then at this present time also there is a remnant according to the (d) election of grace

(d) The election of grace is not that by which men chose grace, but by which God chose us of his
grace and goodness.
#BCV:Romans 11:6
<h3><verse=Romans 11:6>Romans 11:6</verse></h3>

(5) And if by grace, then [is it] (e) no more of works: otherwise grace is no more grace. But if [it be]
of works, then is it no more grace: otherwise work is no more work.

(5) Even though all are not elect and chosen, yet let those that are elected remember that they are
freely chosen: and let those that stubbornly refuse the grace and free mercy of God impute it to
themselves.

(e) This saying demolishes the doctrine of all kinds and manner of works, by which our justifiers of
themselves teach that works are either wholly or partly the cause of our justification.
#BCV:Romans 11:7
<h3><verse=Romans 11:7>Romans 11:7</verse></h3>

What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obtained it, and
the rest were (f) blinded

(f) See (<bcv=Mar 3:5>Mar 3:5</bcv>).
#BCV:Romans 11:8
<h3><verse=Romans 11:8>Romans 11:8</verse></h3>

(6) (According as it is written, God hath given them the spirit of (g) slumber, eyes that they (h)
should not see, and ears that they should not hear;) unto this day.

(6) And yet this hardness of heart does not come except by God's just decree and judgment, and yet
without fault, when he so punishes the unthankful by taking from them all sense and perseverance
and by doubling their darkness, that the benefits of God which are offered to them, do result in
their just destruction.

(g) A very sound sleep, which takes away all sense.

(h) That is, eyes unfit to see.
#BCV:Romans 11:9
<h3><verse=Romans 11:9>Romans 11:9</verse></h3>

And David saith, (i) Let their table be made a snare, and a trap, and a stumblingblock, and a
recompence unto them:

<page=2880>(i) As unhappy birds are enticed by that which is their sustenance, and then killed, and so did that
thing turn to the Jew's destruction, out of which they sought life, that is, the law of God, for the
preposterous zeal of which they refused the Gospel.

#BCV:Romans 11:11
<h3><verse=Romans 11:11>Romans 11:11</verse></h3>




(7) I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but [rather] through their fall
salvation [is come] unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy.



(7) God appointed this casting off of the Jews, that it might be an occasion to call the Gentiles: and
again might turn this calling of the Gentiles, to be an occasion to restore the Jews, that is, that they
being inflamed and provoked by jealousy of the Gentiles, then might themselves at length embrace
the Gospel. And by this we may learn that the severity of God serves for the setting forth of his
glory as well as his mercy does, and also that God prepares himself a way to show mercy by his
severity: so that we ought not rashly to despair of any man, nor proudly triumph over other men,
but rather provoke them to a holy jealousy, that God may be glorified in them also.
#BCV:Romans 11:12
<h3><verse=Romans 11:12>Romans 11:12</verse></h3>



Now if the fall of them [be] the (k) riches of the world, and the diminishing of them the riches of
the Gentiles; how much more their (l) fulness?



(k) By "riches" he means the knowledge of the Gospel to everlasting life: and by the "world", all
nations dispersed throughout the whole world.



(l) Of the Jews, when the whole nation without exception will come to Christ.
#BCV:Romans 11:13
<h3><verse=Romans 11:13>Romans 11:13</verse></h3>




(8) For I speak to you Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, (m) I magnify mine
office:



(8) He witnesses by his own example, that he goes before all others in this regard.



(m) I make noble and famous.
#BCV:Romans 11:15
<h3><verse=Romans 11:15>Romans 11:15</verse></h3>



For if the casting away of them [be] the reconciling of the world, what [shall] the receiving [of them
be], (n) but life from the dead?

(n) It will come to pass that when the Jews come to the Gospel, the world will as it were come to life
again, and rise up from death to life.
#BCV:Romans 11:16
<h3><verse=Romans 11:16>Romans 11:16</verse></h3>

(9) For if the (o) firstfruit [be] holy, the lump [is] also [holy]: and if the root (p) [be] holy, so [are] the branches.


(9) The nation of the Jews being considered in their head and root, that is, in Abraham, is holy,
although many of the branches are cut off. Therefore in judging of our brethren, we must not dwell
on their unworthiness, to think that they are at once all cast off, but we ought to consider the root
of the covenant, and rather go back to their ancestors who were faithful, that we may know that the
blessing of the covenant rests in some of their posterity, as we also find proof here in ourselves.

(o) He alludes to the first fruits of those loaves, by the offering of which the whole crop of corn
was sanctified, and they might use the rest of the crop for that year with good conscience.

(p) Abraham.
#BCV:Romans 11:17
<h3><verse=Romans 11:17>Romans 11:17</verse></h3>

(10) And if some of the branches be broken off, and thou, being a wild olive tree, wert graffed in (q)
among them, and with them (r) partakest of the root and fatness of the olive tree;

(10) There is no reason why the Gentiles who have obtained mercy, should triumph over the Jews
who condemn the grace of God, seeing they are grafted in place of the Jews. But let them rather
take heed, that also in them is not found that which is worthily condemned in the Jews. And from
this also the general doctrine may be gathered and taken, that we ought to be zealous for God's glory,
even in regards to our neighbours: and we should be very far from bragging and glorying because we
are preferred before others by a singular grace.

(q) In place of those branches which are broken off.

(r) It is against the common manner of farming, that the barren juice of the young shoot is changed
with the juice of the good tree.
#BCV:Romans 11:18
<h3><verse=Romans 11:18>Romans 11:18</verse></h3>

(s) Boast not against the branches. But if thou boast, thou bearest not the root, but the root thee.

(s) We may rejoice in the Lord, but in such a way that we do not despise the Jews, whom we ought
rather to encourage to join in the good battle with us.
#BCV:Romans 11:20
<h3><verse=Romans 11:20>Romans 11:20</verse></h3>

Well; because of unbelief they were broken off, and thou standest by faith. Be not highminded, but

(t) fear:

(t) See that you stand in awe of God modestly, and carefully.
#BCV:Romans 11:21
<h3><verse=Romans 11:21>Romans 11:21</verse></h3>

<page=2882>For if God spared not the (u) natural branches, [take heed] lest he also spare not thee.

(u) He calls them natural, not because they had any holiness by nature, but because they were born
of those whom the Lord set apart for himself from other nations, by his league and covenant which
he freely made with them.
#BCV:Romans 11:22
<h3><verse=Romans 11:22>Romans 11:22</verse></h3>




(11) Behold therefore the (x) goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward
thee, goodness, if thou continue in [his] (y) goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off.



(11) Seeing that the matter itself declares that election comes not by inheritance (although the fault
is in men, and not in God, why the blessing of God is not perpetual) we must take good heed that
those things are not found in ourselves, which we think blameworthy in others, for the election is
sure, but those that are truly elect and ingrafted, are not proud in themselves with contempt of
others, but with due reverence to God, and love towards their neighbour, run to the mark which is
set before them.



(x) The tender and loving heart.



(y) In that state which God's bountifulness has advanced you to: and we must mark here that he is
not speaking of the election of every individual man, which remains steadfast forever, but of the
election of the whole nation.
#BCV:Romans 11:23
<h3><verse=Romans 11:23>Romans 11:23</verse></h3>




(12) And they also, if they abide not still in unbelief, shall be graffed in: for God is able to graff
them in again.



(12) Many are now for a season cut off, that is, are without the root, who in their time will be grafted
in: and again there are a great number who after a certain manner, and with regard to the outward
show seem to be ingrafted, who nonetheless through their own fault afterwards are cut off, and
completely cast away: which thing is especially to be considered in nations and peoples, as in the
Gentiles and Jews.
#BCV:Romans 11:24
<h3><verse=Romans 11:24>Romans 11:24</verse></h3>



For if thou wert cut out of the olive tree which is wild by (z) nature, and wert graffed contrary to
nature into a (a) good olive tree: how much more shall these, which be the natural [branches], be
graffed into their own olive tree?

<page=2883>(z) Understand nature, not as it was first made, but as it was corrupted in Adam, and so passed on
from him to his posterity.

(a) Into the people of the Jews, whom God had sanctified only by his grace: and he speaks of the
whole nation, not of any one part.
#BCV:Romans 11:25
<h3><verse=Romans 11:25>Romans 11:25</verse></h3>




(13) For I would not, brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, lest ye should be wise in
your (b) own conceits; that blindness in part is happened to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles
be (c) come in.



(13) The blindness of the Jews is neither so universal that the Lord has no elect in that nation,
neither will it be continual: for there will be a time in which they also (as the prophets have foretold)
will effectually embrace that which they now so stubbornly for the most part reject and refuse.



(b) That you are not proud within yourselves.



(c) Into the Church.
#BCV:Romans 11:28
<h3><verse=Romans 11:28>Romans 11:28</verse></h3>




(14) As concerning the (d) gospel, [they are] enemies for your sakes: but as touching the (e) election,
[they are] beloved for the fathers' sakes.



(14) Again, that he may join the Jews and Gentiles together as it were in one body, and especially
may teach what duty the Gentiles owe to the Jews, he emphasises, that the nation of the Jews is not
utterly cast off without hope of recovery.



(d) Since they do not receive it.



(e) In that God does not give them what they deserve, but what he promised to Abraham.
#BCV:Romans 11:29
<h3><verse=Romans 11:29>Romans 11:29</verse></h3>




(15) For the gifts and calling of God [are] without repentance.



(15) The reason or proof: because the covenant made with that nation of everlasting life cannot be
frustrated or in vain.
#BCV:Romans 11:30
<h3><verse=Romans 11:30>Romans 11:30</verse></h3>




(16) For as ye in times past have not believed God, yet have now obtained mercy through their
unbelief:

<page=2884>(16) Another reason: because even though they who are hardened are worthily punished, yet this
stubbornness of the Jews has not so that there would be a hatred of that nation, but so that an entry
might be as it were opened to bring in the Gentiles, and afterward the Jews being inflamed with
jealousy of that mercy which is shown to the Gentiles might themselves also be partakers of the
same benefit, and so it might appear that both Jews and Gentiles are saved only by the free mercy
and grace of God, which could not have been so manifest if at the beginning God had brought all
together into the Church, or if he had saved the nation of the Jews without this interruption.

#BCV:Romans 11:32
<h3><verse=Romans 11:32>Romans 11:32</verse></h3>



For God hath concluded them (f) all in unbelief, that he might have mercy upon all.



(f) Both Jews and Gentiles.
#BCV:Romans 11:33
<h3><verse=Romans 11:33>Romans 11:33</verse></h3>




(17) O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable [are]
his (g) judgments, and his (h) ways past finding out!



(17) The apostle cries out as one astonished with this wonderful wisdom of God, which he teaches
us to revere in a religious manner, and not curiously and profanely to be searched beyond the
boundary of that which God has revealed unto us.



(g) The course that he holds in governing all things both generally and particularly.



(h) The order of his counsels and doings.
#BCV:Romans 11:34
<h3><verse=Romans 11:34>Romans 11:34</verse></h3>




(18) For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?



(18) He bridles the wicked boldness of man in three ways: firstly, because God is above all most wise,
and therefore it is very absurd and plainly godless to measure him by our folly. Secondly, because he
is debtor to no man, and therefore no man can complain of injury done to him. Thirdly, because all
things are made for his glory, and therefore we must ascribe all things to his glory, much less may we
contend and debate the matter with him.
#BCV:Romans 11:35
<h3><verse=Romans 11:35>Romans 11:35</verse></h3>



Or who hath (i) first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again?



(i) This saying overthrows the doctrine of foreseen works and merits.
#BCV:Romans 11:36
<h3><verse=Romans 11:36>Romans 11:36</verse></h3>

<page=2885>For of him, and through him, and to (k) him, [are] all things: to whom [be] glory for ever. Amen.

(k) That is, for God, to whose glory all things are ascribed, not only things that were made, but
especially his new works which he works in his elect.

<h2>Romans 12</h2>

#BCV:Romans 12:1
<h3><verse=Romans 12:1>Romans 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=2886>I beseech (1) you therefore, brethren, (a) by the mercies of God, that ye (b) present your (c) bodies a
(d) living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your (e) reasonable service.

(1) The fourth part of this epistle, which after the finishing of the principal points of Christian
doctrine, consists in the declaring of precepts of the Christian life. And first of all he gives general
precepts and grounds: the principal of which is this, that every man consecrate himself wholly to
the spiritual service of God, and do as it were sacrifice himself, trusting the grace of God.

(a) By this preface he shows that God's glory is the utmost goal of everything we do.

(b) In times past the sacrifices were presented before the altar: but now the altar is everywhere.

(c) Yourselves: in times past other bodies besides our own, but now our own must be offered.

(d) In times past, dead sacrifices were offered, but now we must offer those which have the spirit of
life in them.

(e) Spiritual.
#BCV:Romans 12:2
<h3><verse=Romans 12:2>Romans 12:2</verse></h3>




(2) And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your (f) mind,
that ye may prove what [is] that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.



(2) The second precept is this, that we do not take other men's opinions or conduct as a rule for life,
but that we wholly renounce this world, and set before us as our mark the will of God as is
manifested and revealed to us in his word.



(f) This is the reason that there is no room left for reason, which the heathen philosophers place as a
queen in a castle, nor for man's free will, which the popish scholars dream of, because the mind
must be renewed; (<bcv=Eph 1:18>Eph 1:18</bcv>;<bcv=Eph 2:3> Eph 2:3</bcv>;<bcv=Eph 4:17> Eph 4:17</bcv>;<bcv=Col 1:21> Col 1:21</bcv>)
#BCV:Romans 12:3
<h3><verse=Romans 12:3>Romans 12:3</verse></h3>




(3) For I (g) say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not (h) to think
[of himself] more highly than he ought to think; but to think (i) soberly, according as God hath dealt
to every man the measure of (k) faith.



(3) Thirdly, he admonishes us very earnestly that every man keep himself within the bounds of his
calling, and that every man be wise according to the measure of grace that God has given him.

<page=2887>(g) I charge.

(h) That he does not please himself too much, as those do who persuade themselves they know
more than they actually do.



(i) We will be sober if we do not take that upon us which we do not have, and if we do not brag of
that which we do have.



(k) By faith he means the knowledge of God in Christ, and the gifts which the Holy Spirit pours
upon the faithful.
#BCV:Romans 12:4
<h3><verse=Romans 12:4>Romans 12:4</verse></h3>




(4) For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:



(4) There are two reasons for the previous precept: the first is because God has not committed
everything to be done by every man: and therefore he does backwardly, and unprofitably, and also to
the great disservice of others, wearying himself and others, who passes the bounds of his calling:
the second is because this diversity and inequality of vocations and gifts results in our being
benefitted: seeing that this is therefore instituted and appointed, so that we should be bound one to
another. From which it follows that no man ought to be grieved at this, seeing that the use of every
private gift is common.
#BCV:Romans 12:6
<h3><verse=Romans 12:6>Romans 12:6</verse></h3>




(5) Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, [let us
prophesy] according to the (l) proportion of faith;



(5) That which he spoke before in general, he applies particularly to the holy functions, in which
men are in greater danger if they sin. And he divides them into two types: that is, into prophets and
deacons: and again he divides the prophets into teachers and pastors. And of deacons he makes
three types: that is, those who are to be (as it were) treasurers of the Church, whom he calls deacons
in the most proper sense: the others to be the governors of discipline, who are called seniors or
elders: the third, those who properly serve in the help of the poor, such as the widows.



(l) That every man observe the measure of that which is revealed to him.
#BCV:Romans 12:7
<h3><verse=Romans 12:7>Romans 12:7</verse></h3>



Or ministry, [let us wait] on [our] ministering: or he that (m) teacheth, on teaching;



(m) Whose office is only to expound the scriptures.
#BCV:Romans 12:8
<h3><verse=Romans 12:8>Romans 12:8</verse></h3>

<page=2888>Or he that (n) exhorteth, on exhortation: he that (o) giveth, [let him do it] with simplicity; he that (p)
ruleth, with diligence; he that (q) sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.

(n) Who in other passages is called the "pastor".



(o) That is, the alms, that he distributes them faithfully, and without any favouritism.



(p) The elders of the church.



(q) Those that are occupied with the care of the poor must do it with cheerfulness, lest they add
sorrow upon sorrow.
#BCV:Romans 12:9
<h3><verse=Romans 12:9>Romans 12:9</verse></h3>




(6) [Let] love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.



(6) Now he comes to the duties of the second table of the ten commandments, which he derives
from charity, which is as it were the fountain of them all. And he defines Christian charity as
sincerity, hatred of evil, earnest study of good things, good affection to help our neighbour, and
whose final goal is the glory of God.
#BCV:Romans 12:11
<h3><verse=Romans 12:11>Romans 12:11</verse></h3>



Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; (r) serving the Lord;



(r) This verse is well put, for it makes a distinction between Christian duties, and philosophical duties.
#BCV:Romans 12:12
<h3><verse=Romans 12:12>Romans 12:12</verse></h3>




(7) Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;



(7) He reckons up different virtues together with their effects, that is, hope, patience in tribulation,
evenness of mind, continuance in prayer, liberality towards the saints, hospitality, moderation of
mind even in helping our enemies, feeling the same as others in their adversity as well as their
prosperity, modesty, endeavouring to maintain honest agreement as much as we are able with all men,
which cannot be extinguished by any man injuring us.
#BCV:Romans 12:13
<h3><verse=Romans 12:13>Romans 12:13</verse></h3>




(s) Distributing to the (t) necessity of saints; given to hospitality.



(s) A true rule of charity, that we feel for other men's wants as we do for our own, and having that
feeling, to help them as much as we can.



(t) Not upon pleasures and needless duties, but upon necessary uses.
#BCV:Romans 12:16
<h3><verse=Romans 12:16>Romans 12:16</verse></h3>

<page=2889>[Be] of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of (u) low
estate. Be not (x) wise in your own conceits.

(u) There is nothing that disrupts harmony as much as seeking glory, when every man detests a base
estate, and ambitiously seeks to be exalted.



(x) Do not be puffed up with an opinion of your own wisdom.
#BCV:Romans 12:20
<h3><verse=Romans 12:20>Romans 12:20</verse></h3>



Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt
heap (y) coals of fire on his head.



(y) In this manner Solomon points out the wrath of God which hangs over a man.

<h2>Romans 13</h2>

#BCV:Romans 13:1
<h3><verse=Romans 13:1>Romans 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=2890>Let (1) every (a) soul be subject unto the higher (2) powers. (3) For there is no power but of God:
the powers that be are (b) ordained of God.

(1) Now he distinctly shows what subjects owe to their magistrates, that is, obedience: from which
he shows that no man is free: and the obedience we owe is such that it is not only due to the highest
magistrate himself, but also even to the lowest, who has any office under him.



(a) Indeed, though an apostle, though an evangelist, though a prophet; Chrysostom. Therefore the
tyranny of the pope over all kingdoms must be thrown down to the ground. (2) A reason taken
from the nature of the thing itself: for to what purpose are they placed in higher degree, but in order
that the inferiors should be subject to them? (3) Another argument of great force: because God is
author of this order: so that those who are rebels ought to know that they make war with God
himself: and because of this they purchase for themselves great misery and calamity.



(b) Be distributed: for some are greater, some smaller.
#BCV:Romans 13:3
<h3><verse=Romans 13:3>Romans 13:3</verse></h3>


(4) For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. (5) Wilt thou then not be afraid of the
power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same:

(4) The third argument, taken from the reason for which they were made, which is that they are to
be most profitable: because God by this means preserves the good and bridles the wicked: by which
words the magistrates themselves are put in mind of that duty which they owe to their subjects. (5)
An excellent way to bear this yoke, not only without grief, but also with great profit.
#BCV:Romans 13:4
<h3><verse=Romans 13:4>Romans 13:4</verse></h3>

For he is the minister of God to thee for good. (6) But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he
beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a (c) revenger to [execute] wrath upon
him that doeth evil.

(6) God has armed the magistrate even with an avenging sword.

(c) By whom God avenges the wicked.
#BCV:Romans 13:5
<h3><verse=Romans 13:5>Romans 13:5</verse></h3>


(7) Wherefore [ye] must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but (d) also for conscience sake.

<page=2891>(7) The conclusion: we must obey the magistrate, not only for fear of punishment, but much more
because (although the magistrate has no power over the conscience of man, yet seeing he is God's
minister) he cannot be resisted by any good conscience.

(d) So far as we lawfully may: for if unlawful things are commanded to us, we must answer as Peter
teaches us, "It is better to obey God than men."
#BCV:Romans 13:6
<h3><verse=Romans 13:6>Romans 13:6</verse></h3>

(8) For this cause pay ye tribute also: for they are God's ministers, attending continually upon this
very thing.

(8) He sums up the main thing, in which consists the obedience of subjects.
#BCV:Romans 13:7
<h3><verse=Romans 13:7>Romans 13:7</verse></h3>

Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute [is due]; custom to whom custom; fear to
whom (e) fear; honour to whom (f) honour.

(e) Obedience, and that from the heart.

(f) Reverence, which (as we have reason) we must give to the magistrate.
#BCV:Romans 13:8
<h3><verse=Romans 13:8>Romans 13:8</verse></h3>

(9) Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: (10) for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the
(g) law.

(9) He shows how very few judgments need to be executed, that is, if we so order our life as no man
may justly require anything from us, besides only that which we owe one to another, by the perpetual
law of charity.

(10) He commends charity as a concise statement of the whole law.

(g) Has not only done one commandment, but performed generally that which the law commands.
#BCV:Romans 13:9
<h3><verse=Romans 13:9>Romans 13:9</verse></h3>



For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not
bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if [there be] any other commandment, it is (h) briefly
comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.



(h) For the whole law commands nothing else but that we love God and our neighbour. But seeing
that Paul speaks here of the duties we owe one to another, we must restrain this word "law" to the
second table of the ten commandments.
#BCV:Romans 13:11
<h3><verse=Romans 13:11>Romans 13:11</verse></h3>


<page=2892>(11) And that, knowing the time, that now [it is] high time to awake out of sleep: for now [is] our
salvation nearer than when we believed.

(11) An application taken from the circumstances of the time: which also itself puts us in mind of
our duty, seeing that this remains, after which the darkness of ignorance and wicked affections by
the knowledge of God's truth is driven out of us, that we order our life according to that certain and
sure rule of all righteousness and honesty, being fully grounded upon the power of the Spirit of
Christ.
#BCV:Romans 13:12
<h3><verse=Romans 13:12>Romans 13:12</verse></h3>



The night is far spent, the day is (i) at hand: let us therefore cast off the works (k) of darkness, and
let us put on the armour of light.



(i) In other places we are said to be in the light, but yet so that it does not yet appear what we are,
for as yet we see but as it were in the twilight.



(k) That kind of life which those lead that flee the light.
#BCV:Romans 13:14
<h3><verse=Romans 13:14>Romans 13:14</verse></h3>



But (l) put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to [fulfil] the lusts
[thereof].



(l) To put on Christ is to possess Christ, to have him in us, and us in him.

<h2>Romans 14</h2>

#BCV:Romans 14:1
<h3><verse=Romans 14:1>Romans 14:1</verse></h3>

Him (1) that is weak in the faith (a) receive ye, [but] not to (b) doubtful disputations.

(1) Now he shows how we ought to behave ourselves toward our brethren in matters and things
indifferent, who offend in the use of them not from malice or damnable superstition, but for lack
of knowledge of the benefit of Christ. And thus he teaches that they are to be instructed gently and
patiently, and so that we apply ourselves to their ignorance in such matters according to the rule of
charity.

(a) Do not for a matter or thing which is indifferent, and such a thing as you may do or not do, shun
his company, but take him to you.

(b) To make him by your doubtful and uncertain disputations go away in more doubt than he came,
or return back with a troubled conscience.
#BCV:Romans 14:2
<h3><verse=Romans 14:2>Romans 14:2</verse></h3>

(2) For one (c) believeth that he may eat all things: another, who is weak, eateth herbs.

<page=2894>(2) He propounds for an example the difference of meats, which some thought was necessarily to be
observed as a thing prescribed by the law (not knowing that it was taken away) whereas on the other
hand those who had profited in the knowledge of the gospel knew well that this position of the law
as the schoolmaster was abolished.

(c) Knows by faith.
#BCV:Romans 14:3
<h3><verse=Romans 14:3>Romans 14:3</verse></h3>

(3) Let not him that eateth despise him that eateth not; and let not him which eateth not judge him
that eateth: for (4) God hath received him.

(3) In such a matter, says the apostle, let neither those who know their liberty proudly despise their
weak brother, neither let the unlearned wickedly or perversely condemn that which they do not
understand. (4) The first reason: because both he that eats and he that does not eat is nonetheless
the member of Christ, neither he who does not eat can justly be condemned, neither he who eats be
justly condemned: now the first proposition is declared in the sixth verse which follows (<bcv=Rom 14:6>Rom 14:6</bcv>).
#BCV:Romans 14:4
<h3><verse=Romans 14:4>Romans 14:4</verse></h3>

(5) Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea,
he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand.


(5) Another reason which depends upon the former: why the novice and more unlearned ought not
to be condemned by the more experienced, as men without hope of salvation: because, says the
apostle, he that is ignorant today, may be endued tomorrow with further knowledge, so that he may
also stand sure: therefore it belongs to God, and not to man, to pronounce the sentence of
condemnation.
#BCV:Romans 14:5
<h3><verse=Romans 14:5>Romans 14:5</verse></h3>

(6) One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day [alike]. (7) Let (d) every
man be fully persuaded in his own mind.

(6) Another example of the difference of days according to the law. (7) He sets against this
contempt, and hasty or rash judgments, a continual desire to profit, that the strong may be certainly
persuaded of their liberty, of what manner and sort it is, and how they ought to use it: and again the
weak may profit daily, in order that they do not abuse the gift of God, or please themselves in their
infirmity.

(d) That he may say in his conscience that he knows and is persuaded by Jesus Christ, that nothing is
unclean of itself: and this persuasion must be grounded upon the word of God.
#BCV:Romans 14:6
<h3><verse=Romans 14:6>Romans 14:6</verse></h3>

(8) He that (e) regardeth the day, regardeth [it] unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the (f) Lord he doth not regard [it]. He that (g) eateth, eateth to the Lord, (9) for he giveth God
thanks; and he that eateth (h) not, to the Lord he eateth not, and giveth God thanks.

(8) A reason taken from the nature of indifferent things, which a man may do with good conscience,
and omit: for seeing that the difference of days and meats was appointed by God, how could those
who as yet did not understand the abrogation of the law, and yet otherwise acknowledge Christ as
their Saviour, with good conscience neglect that which they knew was commanded by God? And on
the other hand, those who knew the benefit of Christ in this behalf, did with good conscience
neither observe days nor meats: therefore, says the apostle in verse ten, "Let not the strong condemn
the weak for these things, seeing that the weak brethren are brethren nonetheless." (<bcv=Rom 14:10>Rom 14:10</bcv>) Now
if any man would apply this doctrine to our times and ages, let him know that the apostle speaks of
indifferent things, and that those who thought them not to be indifferent, had a basis in the law, and
were deceived by simple ignorance, and not from malice (for to such the apostle does not yield, no
not for a moment) nor superstition, but by a religious fear of God.

(e) Precisely observes.

(f) God will judge whether he does well or not: and therefore you should rather strive about this,
how every one of you will be considered by God, than to think upon other men's doings.

(g) He that makes no difference between meats. (9) So the apostle shows that he speaks of the
faithful, both strong and weak: but what if we have to deal with the unfaithful? Then we must take
heed of two things, as also is declared in the epistle to the Corinthians. The first is that we do not
consider their superstition as something indifferent, as they did who sat down to eat meat in idol's
temples: the second is that then also when the matter is indifferent (as to buy a thing offered to idols,
in the butcher's store, and to eat it at home or at a private meal) we do not wound the conscience of
our weak brother.

(h) He that does not touch meats which he considers to be unclean by the law.
#BCV:Romans 14:7
<h3><verse=Romans 14:7>Romans 14:7</verse></h3>

(10) For none of us liveth to (i) himself, and no man dieth to himself.

(10) We must not rest, he says, in the meat itself, but in the use of the meat, so that he is justly to be
reprehended that lives in such a way that he does not cast his eyes upon God, for both our life and
our death is dedicated to him, and for this cause Christ has properly died, and not simply that we
might eat this meat or that.

(i) Has respect to himself only, which the Hebrews say in this manner, "Do well to his own soul."
#BCV:Romans 14:10
<h3><verse=Romans 14:10>Romans 14:10</verse></h3>


<page=2896>(11) But why dost thou judge thy brother? or why dost thou set at nought thy brother? for we shall
all stand before the judgment seat of Christ.

(11) The conclusion: we must leave to God his right, and therefore in matters which are either good
or evil according to the conscience of the individual, the strong must not despise their weak
brethren, much less condemn them. But this consequent cannot be taken of equal force in the
contrary, that is, that the weak should not judge the strong, because the weak do not know that those
who do not observe a day and eat, observe it not to the Lord, and eat to the Lord, as the strong men
know that the weak who observe a day and do not eat, observe the day to the Lord, and eat not to
the Lord.
#BCV:Romans 14:11
<h3><verse=Romans 14:11>Romans 14:11</verse></h3>

For it is written, [As] I (k) live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall (l)
confess to God.


(k) This is a form of an oath, proper to God alone, for he and none but he lives, and has his being
of himself.

(l) Will acknowledge be to be from God.
#BCV:Romans 14:13
<h3><verse=Romans 14:13>Romans 14:13</verse></h3>


(12) Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge (m) this rather, that no man put a
stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in [his] brother's way.

(12) After he has concluded what is not to be done, he shows what is to be done: that is, we must
take heed that we do not utterly abuse our liberty and cast down our brother who is not yet strong.

(m) He rebukes along the way these malicious judgers of others who occupy their heads about
nothing, but to find fault with their brethren's life, whereas they should rather focus their minds
upon this, that they do not with disdainfulness either cast their brethren completely down, or give
them any offence.
#BCV:Romans 14:14
<h3><verse=Romans 14:14>Romans 14:14</verse></h3>

(13) I know, and am persuaded by the (n) Lord Jesus, that [there is] nothing unclean of (o) itself: but
to him that esteemeth any thing to be unclean, to him [it is] unclean.

(13) The preventing of an objection: it is true that the right of the law to be schoolmaster is taken
away by the benefit of Christ, to those who know it, but yet nonetheless we have to consider in the
use of this liberty what is expedient, that we may have regard to our weak brother, seeing that our
liberty is not lost in doing this.

(n) By the Spirit of the Lord Jesus, or by the Lord Jesus, who broke down the wall at his coming.

<page=2897>(o) By nature.

#BCV:Romans 14:15
<h3><verse=Romans 14:15>Romans 14:15</verse></h3>

But if thy brother be grieved with [thy] meat, now walkest thou not charitably. (14) Destroy not him
with thy meat, for whom (15) Christ died.

(14) It is the part of a cruel mind to make more account of meat than of our brother's salvation.
Which thing those do who eat with the intent of giving offence to any brother, and so give him
occasion to turn back from the Gospel.

(15) Another argument: we must follow Christ's example: and Christ was so far from destroying the
weak with meat that he gave his life for them.
#BCV:Romans 14:16
<h3><verse=Romans 14:16>Romans 14:16</verse></h3>

(16) Let not then your good be evil spoken of:

(16) Another argument: because by this means evil is spoken of the liberty of the gospel, as though
it opens the way to attempt anything whatever, and gives us boldness to do all things.
#BCV:Romans 14:17
<h3><verse=Romans 14:17>Romans 14:17</verse></h3>

(17) For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the
Holy Ghost.

(17) A general reason, and the foundation of the entire argument: the kingdom of heaven consists
not in these outward things, but in the study of righteousness, and peace, and comfort of the Holy
Spirit.
#BCV:Romans 14:18
<h3><verse=Romans 14:18>Romans 14:18</verse></h3>

For he that in (p) these things serveth Christ [is] acceptable to God, and approved of men.

(p) He that lives peaceably, and does righteously, through the Holy Spirit.
#BCV:Romans 14:19
<h3><verse=Romans 14:19>Romans 14:19</verse></h3>

(18) Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may
edify another.

(18) A general conclusion: the use of this liberty, indeed, and our whole life, ought to be concerned
with the edifying of one another, insomuch that we consider that thing unlawful, by reason of the
offence of our brother, which is of itself pure and lawful.

#BCV:Romans 14:22
<h3><verse=Romans 14:22>Romans 14:22</verse></h3>

<page=2893>(19) Hast thou (q) faith? have [it] to thyself before God. Happy [is] he that condemneth not himself
in that thing which he (r) alloweth.

(19) He gives a double warning in these matters: one, which pertains to the strong, that he who has
obtained a sure knowledge of this liberty, keep that treasure to the end that he may use it wisely and
profitably, as has been said: the second, which respects the weak, that they do nothing rashly by
other men's example with a wavering conscience, for it cannot be done without sin if we are not
persuaded by the word of God that he likes and approves it.

(q) He showed before in (<bcv=Rom 14:14>Rom 14:14</bcv>) what he means by faith, that is, for a man to be certain and
without doubt in matters and things indifferent.

(r) Embraces.
#BCV:Romans 14:23
<h3><verse=Romans 14:23>Romans 14:23</verse></h3>

And he that (s) doubteth is damned if he eat, because [he eateth] not of faith: for whatsoever [is]
not of faith is sin.

(s) Reasons with himself.

<h2>Romans 15</h2>

#BCV:Romans 15:1
<h3><verse=Romans 15:1>Romans 15:1</verse></h3>

<page=2898>We (1) then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to (a) please ourselves.

(1) Now the apostle reasons generally of tolerating or bearing with the weak by all means, in so far
that it may be for their profit.



(a) And despise others.
#BCV:Romans 15:2
<h3><verse=Romans 15:2>Romans 15:2</verse></h3>



Let every one of us please [his] neighbour for [his] (b) good to edification.



(b) For his profit and edification.
#BCV:Romans 15:3
<h3><verse=Romans 15:3>Romans 15:3</verse></h3>




(2) For even Christ pleased not himself; but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached
thee fell on me.



(2) A confirmation taken from the example of Christ, who suffered all things, to bring not only the
weak, but also his most cruel enemies, overcoming them with patience, to his Father.
#BCV:Romans 15:4
<h3><verse=Romans 15:4>Romans 15:4</verse></h3>




(3) For whatsoever things were written (c) aforetime were written for our learning, that we through
patience and comfort of the (d) scriptures might have hope.



(3) The preventing of an objection: such things as are cited out of the examples of the ancients, are
propounded unto us to this end and purpose, that according to the example of our fathers we
should in patience and hope bear one with another.



(c) By Moses and the prophets.



(d) The scriptures are said to teach and comfort, because God uses them to teach and comfort his
people with them.
#BCV:Romans 15:5
<h3><verse=Romans 15:5>Romans 15:5</verse></h3>




(4) Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another
according to Christ Jesus:

<page=2899>(4) We must take an example of patience from God: that both the weak and the strong, serving God
with a mutual consent, may bring one another to God, as Christ also received us to himself, although
we were ever so unworthy.

#BCV:Romans 15:7
<h3><verse=Romans 15:7>Romans 15:7</verse></h3>



Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also (e) received us to the glory of God.



(e) He did not shun us, but received us of his own accord, to make us partakers of God's glory.
#BCV:Romans 15:8
<h3><verse=Romans 15:8>Romans 15:8</verse></h3>




(5) Now I say that Jesus Christ was a minister of the (f) circumcision for the (g) truth of God, to
confirm the promises [made] unto the fathers:



(5) An applying of the example of Christ to the Jews, whom he granted this honour for the
promises which he made to their fathers, although they were ever so unworthy, in that he executed
the office of a minister among them with marvellous patience: therefore much less ought the
Gentiles despise them for certain faults, whom the Son of God esteemed so much.



(f) Of the circumcised Jews, for as long as he lived, he never went out of their midst.



(g) That God might be seen to be true.
#BCV:Romans 15:9
<h3><verse=Romans 15:9>Romans 15:9</verse></h3>




(6) And that the Gentiles might glorify God for [his] mercy; as it is written, For this cause I will (h)
confess to thee among the Gentiles, and sing unto thy name.



(6) An applying of the same to the Gentiles, whom also the Lord by his incomprehensible goodness
had regard for, so that they are not to be condemned by the Jews as strangers.



(h) I will openly confess and set forth your name.
#BCV:Romans 15:13
<h3><verse=Romans 15:13>Romans 15:13</verse></h3>




(7) Now the God of (i) hope fill you with (k) all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in
hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.



(7) He seals up as it were all the former treatise with prayers, wishing all that to be given them by the
Lord, that he had commanded them.



(i) In whom we hope.



(k) Abundantly and plentifully.
#BCV:Romans 15:14
<h3><verse=Romans 15:14>Romans 15:14</verse></h3>


<page=2900>(8) And I myself also am persuaded of you, my brethren, that (l) ye also are full of goodness, filled
with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

(8) The conclusion of the epistle, in which he first excuses himself, that he has written somewhat at
length to them, rather to warn them than to teach them, and that of necessity, by reason of his
calling, which binds him in a special way to the Gentiles.



(l) Of your own accord, and by yourselves.
#BCV:Romans 15:16
<h3><verse=Romans 15:16>Romans 15:16</verse></h3>



That I should be the minister of Jesus Christ to the Gentiles, ministering the gospel of God, that
the (m) offering up of the Gentiles might be acceptable, being sanctified by the Holy Ghost.



(m) By the offering up of the Gentiles, he means the Gentiles themselves, whom he offered to God
as a sacrifice.
#BCV:Romans 15:17
<h3><verse=Romans 15:17>Romans 15:17</verse></h3>




(9) I have therefore whereof I may glory through Jesus Christ in those things which pertain to God.



(9) He commends his apostleship highly by the effects, but yet in such a way that even though he
speaks all things truly, he gives all the glory to God as the only author: and he does not do this for
his own sake, but this rather, that men might doubt less of the truth of the doctrine which he
propounds to them.
#BCV:Romans 15:18
<h3><verse=Romans 15:18>Romans 15:18</verse></h3>



For I will not dare to speak of any of those things which (n) Christ hath not wrought by me, to
make the Gentiles obedient, by word and deed,



(n) Christ was so with me in all things, and by all means, that even if I had wanted to, yet I cannot
say what he has done by me to bring the Gentiles to obey the gospel.
#BCV:Romans 15:19
<h3><verse=Romans 15:19>Romans 15:19</verse></h3>



Through (o) mighty signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God; so that from Jerusalem,
and round about unto Illyricum, I have fully preached the gospel of Christ.



(o) In the first place this word "mighty" signifies the force and working of the wonders in piercing
men's minds: and in the latter, it signifies God's mighty power which was the worker of those
wonders.
#BCV:Romans 15:22
<h3><verse=Romans 15:22>Romans 15:22</verse></h3>


<page=2901>(10) For which cause also I have been much hindered from coming to you.

(10) He writes in general to the Romans, and that familiarly, his singular good will towards them, and
the state of his affairs, but in such a way that he does not swerve in the least way from the end of
apostolic doctrine: for he declares nothing but that which appertains to his office, and is godly: and
commending by a little digression as it were, the liberality of the churches of Macedonia, he
modestly incites them to follow their godly deed.
#BCV:Romans 15:25
<h3><verse=Romans 15:25>Romans 15:25</verse></h3>



But now I go unto Jerusalem to (p) minister unto the saints.



(p) Doing his duty for the saints, to carry to them that money which was gathered for their use.
#BCV:Romans 15:27
<h3><verse=Romans 15:27>Romans 15:27</verse></h3>




(11) It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made
partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to (q) minister unto them in carnal things.



(11) Alms are voluntary, but yet we at the same time owe these by the law of charity.



(q) To serve their turns.
#BCV:Romans 15:28
<h3><verse=Romans 15:28>Romans 15:28</verse></h3>



When therefore I have performed this, and have (r) sealed to them this (s) fruit, I will come by you
into Spain.



(r) Performed it faithfully, and sealed it as it were with my ring.



(s) This money which was gathered for the use of the poor: and these alms are very fitly called fruit.
#BCV:Romans 15:29
<h3><verse=Romans 15:29>Romans 15:29</verse></h3>

(12) And I am sure that, when I come unto you, I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the
gospel of Christ.

(12) He promises them through the blessing of God, not to come empty to them: and requiring of
them the duty of prayers, he shows what thing we ought mainly to rest upon in all difficulties and
adversities.
#BCV:Romans 15:30
<h3><verse=Romans 15:30>Romans 15:30</verse></h3>

Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ's sake, and for the (t) love of the Spirit, that
ye strive together with me in [your] prayers to God for me;

(t) For the mutual union, with which the Holy Spirit has united our hearts and minds together.

<h2>Romans 16</h2>

#BCV:Romans 16:1
<h3><verse=Romans 16:1>Romans 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=2903>I (1) commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea:

(1) Having made an end of the whole discussion, he comes now to familiar commendations and
salutations, and that to good consideration and purpose, that is, that the Romans might know who
are most to be honoured and to be considered among them: and also whom they ought to set before
them to follow: and therefore he attributes to every of them individual and singular testimonies.
#BCV:Romans 16:2
<h3><verse=Romans 16:2>Romans 16:2</verse></h3>

That ye receive her in the (a) Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business
she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also.

(a) For Christ's sake, which appropriately belongs to the Christians, for the heathen philosophers
have a resemblance of the same virtues.
#BCV:Romans 16:5
<h3><verse=Romans 16:5>Romans 16:5</verse></h3>

Likewise [greet] the (b) church that is in their house. Salute my wellbeloved Epaenetus, who is the (c)
firstfruits of Achaia unto Christ.

(b) The company of the faithful, for in so great a city as that was, there were different companies.

(c) For he was the first of Achaia that believed in Christ: and this type of speech is an allusion to the
ceremonies of the law.
#BCV:Romans 16:7
<h3><verse=Romans 16:7>Romans 16:7</verse></h3>

Salute Andronicus and Junia, my kinsmen, and my fellowprisoners, who are of note among the
apostles, who also were in (d) Christ before me.

(d) Ingrafted by faith.
#BCV:Romans 16:16
<h3><verse=Romans 16:16>Romans 16:16</verse></h3>

Salute one another with an holy (e) kiss. The churches of Christ salute you.

(e) He calls that a holy kiss which proceeds from a heart that is full of that holy love: now this is to
be understood as referring to the manner used in those days.
#BCV:Romans 16:17
<h3><verse=Romans 16:17>Romans 16:17</verse></h3>

<page=2904>(2) Now I beseech you, brethren, (f) mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the
doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.

(2) As by describing by name those who were worthy of commendation he sufficiently declared
whom they ought to hear and follow, so does he now point out to them whom they ought to take
heed of, yet he does not name them, because it was not necessary.



(f) Watchfully and diligently, as though you should scout for your enemies in a watch tower.
#BCV:Romans 16:18
<h3><verse=Romans 16:18>Romans 16:18</verse></h3>



For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by (g) good words
and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.



(g) The word which he uses signifies a promising which accomplishes nothing, and if you hear any
such, you may assure yourself that he who promises to you is more concerned about receiving from
you than he is concerned about giving to you.
#BCV:Romans 16:19
<h3><verse=Romans 16:19>Romans 16:19</verse></h3>




(3) For your obedience is come abroad unto all [men]. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I
would have you (h) wise unto that which is good, and (i) simple concerning evil.



(3) Simplicity must be joined with wisdom.



(h) Furnished with the knowledge of the truth and wisdom, so that you may embrace good things,
and avoid evil, beware of the deceits and snares of false prophets, and resist them openly: and this
place plainly destroys the papists faith of credit, whereas they maintain it to be sufficient for one
man to believe as another man believes, without further knowledge or examination what the matter
is, or what ground it has: using these daily speeches, "We believe as our fathers believed, and we
believe as the Church believes."



(i) As men that know no way to deceive, much less deceive indeed.
#BCV:Romans 16:20
<h3><verse=Romans 16:20>Romans 16:20</verse></h3>




(4) And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly. The grace of our Lord Jesus
Christ [be] with you. Amen.



(4) We must fight with a certain hope of victory.
#BCV:Romans 16:21
<h3><verse=Romans 16:21>Romans 16:21</verse></h3>




(5) Timotheus my workfellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you.

<page=2905>(5) He adds salutations, partly to renew mutual friendship, and partly to the end that this epistle
might be of some weight with the Romans, having the confirmation of so many that subscribed to
it.

#BCV:Romans 16:22
<h3><verse=Romans 16:22>Romans 16:22</verse></h3>

I Tertius, who (k) wrote [this] epistle, salute you in the Lord.

(k) Wrote it as Paul uttered it.

#BCV:Romans 16:24
<h3><verse=Romans 16:24>Romans 16:24</verse></h3>




(6) The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you all. Amen.



(6) Now taking his leave of them this third time, he wishes that to them, upon which all the force of
the former doctrine depends.
#BCV:Romans 16:25
<h3><verse=Romans 16:25>Romans 16:25</verse></h3>




(7) Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus
Christ, according to the revelation of the (l) mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,



(7) He sets forth the power and wisdom of God with great thanksgiving, which especially appears in
the gospel, and makes mention also of the calling of the Gentiles, to confirm the Romans in the
hope of this salvation.



(l) That secret and hidden thing, that is to say, the calling of the Gentiles.
#BCV:Romans 16:26
<h3><verse=Romans 16:26>Romans 16:26</verse></h3>



But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment
of the everlasting God, (m) made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:



(m) Offered and exhibited to all nations to be known.

<h1>1 Corinthians</h1>


<h2>1 Corinthians 1</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:1
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:1>1 Corinthians 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2907>Paul, (1) called [to be] an (2) apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and (3) Sosthenes [our]
brother,

(1) The inscription of the epistle, in which he mainly tries to procure the good will of the
Corinthians towards him, yet nonetheless in such a way that he always lets them know that he is the
servant of God and not of men. (2) If he is an apostle, then he must be heard, even though he
sometimes sharply reprehends them, seeing he has not his own cause in hand, but is a messenger
that brings the commandments of Christ. (3) He has Sosthenes with himself, that this doctrine
might be confirmed by two witnesses.

#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:2
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:2>1 Corinthians 1:2</verse></h3>




(4) Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are (5) sanctified in (a) Christ Jesus, (b)
called [to be] saints, with all that in every place (c) call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both
theirs and ours:



(4) It is a church of God, even though it has great faults in it, as it obeys those who admonish them.



(5) A true definition of the universal church, which is:



(a) The Father sanctifies us, that is to say, separates us from the wicked in giving us to his Son, that
he may be in us, and we in him.



(b) Whom God by his gracious goodness and absolute love has separated for himself: or whom God
has called to holiness: the first of these two expositions, shows from where our sanctification comes:
and the second shows to what end it strives for.



(c) He is correctly said to call on God who cries to the Lord when he is in danger, and craves help
from his hands, and by the figure of speech synecdoche, it is taken for all the service of God: and
therefore to call upon Christ's name, is to acknowledge and take him for very God.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:3
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:3>1 Corinthians 1:3</verse></h3>




(6) Grace [be] unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and [from] the Lord Jesus Christ.



(6) The foundation and the life of the Church is Christ Jesus given from the Father.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:4
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:4>1 Corinthians 1:4</verse></h3>


<page=2908>(7) I thank my God always on your behalf, for the grace of God which is given you by Jesus Christ;



(7) Going about to condemn many vices, he begins with a true commendation of their virtues, lest
he might seem after to descend to chiding, being moved with malice or envy: yet in such a way that
he refers all to God as the author of them, and that in Christ, that the Corinthians might be more
ashamed to profane and abuse the holy gifts of God.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:5
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:5>1 Corinthians 1:5</verse></h3>



That in every thing ye are enriched by him, (8) in (d) all utterance, and [in] all knowledge;



(8) He refers to that by name which they abused the most.



(d) Seeing that while we live here we know but in part, and prophesy in part, this word "all" must be
limited by the present state of the faithful: and by "utterance" he does not mean a vain kind of
babbling, but the gift of holy eloquence, which the Corinthians abused.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:6
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:6>1 Corinthians 1:6</verse></h3>




(9) Even as the testimony of Christ was (e) confirmed in you:



(9) He shows that the true use of these gifts consists in this, that the mighty power of Christ might
be set forth in them, that hereafter it might evidently appear how wickedly they abused them for
glory and ambition.



(e) By those excellent gifts of the Holy Spirit.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:7
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:7>1 Corinthians 1:7</verse></h3>

So that ye come behind in no gift; (10) waiting for the (f) coming of our Lord Jesus Christ:


(10) He says along the way that there is no reason why they should be so pleased in those gifts which
they had received, seeing that those were nothing in comparison of those which are to be looked for.


(f) He speaks of the last coming of Christ.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:8
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:8>1 Corinthians 1:8</verse></h3>


(11) Who shall also confirm you unto the end, [that ye may be] (g) blameless in the day of our Lord
Jesus Christ.


(11) He testifies that he hopes that things go well with them from now on, that they may more
patiently abide his reprehension afterward. And yet together in addition shows, that the beginning as
well as the accomplishing of our salvation is only the work of God.

<page=2909>(g) He calls them blameless, not whom man never found fault with, but with whom no man can
justly find fault, that is to say, those who are in Christ Jesus, in whom there is no condemnation. See
(<bcv=Luk 1:6>Luk 1:6</bcv>).

#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:9
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:9>1 Corinthians 1:9</verse></h3>

God [is] (h) faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord.

(h) True and constant, who not only calls us, but also gives to us the gift of perseverance.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:10
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:10>1 Corinthians 1:10</verse></h3>

(12) Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that (13) ye all speak the
same thing, and [that] there be no divisions among you; but [that] ye be (i) perfectly joined together
in the same mind and in the same judgment.

(12) Having made an end of the preface, he comes to the matter itself, beginning with a most grave
testimony, as though they should hear Christ himself speaking, and not Paul.

(13) The first part of this epistle, in which his purpose is found, to call back the Corinthians to
brotherly harmony, and to take away all occasion of discord. So then this first part concerns the
taking away of divisions. Now a division occurs when men who otherwise agree and consent
together in doctrine, yet separate themselves from one another.

(i) Knit together, as a body that consists of all its parts, fitly knit together.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:11
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:11>1 Corinthians 1:11</verse></h3>

(14) For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them [which are of the house] of
Chloe, that there are contentions among you.

(14) He begins his reprehension and chiding by taking away an objection, because he understood
from good witnesses that there were many factions among them. And in addition he declares the
cause of dissentions, because some depended on one teacher, some on another, and some were so
addicted to themselves that they neglected all teachers and learned men, calling themselves the
disciples of Christ alone, completely ignoring their teachers.

#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:12
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:12>1 Corinthians 1:12</verse></h3>

Now (k) this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and
I of Christ.

(k) The matter I would say to you is this.

#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:13
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:13>1 Corinthians 1:13</verse></h3>

(15) Is Christ divided? was (16) Paul crucified for you? or were ye (17) baptized in the name of Paul?

(15) The first reason why divisions ought to be avoided: because Christ seems by that means to be
divide and torn in pieces, who cannot be the head of two different and disagreeing bodies, being
himself one.

(16) Another reason: because they cannot without great injury to God so depend on men as on
Christ: which thing those no doubt do who allow whatever some man speaks, and do it for their
own sakes: as these men allowed one and the very same Gospel being uttered by one man, and did
loathe it being uttered by another man. So that these factions were called by the names of their
teachers. Now Paul sets aside his own name, not simply to grieve no man, but also to show that he
does not plead his own cause.

(17) The third reason taken from the form and end of baptism, in which we make a promise to
Christ, calling also on the name of the Father, and the Holy Spirit. Therefore although a man does
not fall from the doctrine of Christ, yet if he depends upon certain teachers, and despises others, he
forsakes Christ: for if he holds Christ as his only master, he would hear him, no matter who Christ
taught by.

#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:14
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:14>1 Corinthians 1:14</verse></h3>

(18) I thank God that I baptized none of you, but Crispus and Gaius;

(18) He protests that he speaks so much the more boldly of these things, because through God's
providence, he is void of all suspicion of gathering disciples to himself, and taking them from others.
By which we may understand, that not the scholars only, but the teachers also are here reprehended,
who gathered flocks separately and for themselves.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:17
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:17>1 Corinthians 1:17</verse></h3>


(19) For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: (20) not with (l) wisdom of words,
lest the (21) cross of Christ should be made of none effect.

(19) The taking away of an objection: that he gave not himself to baptize many amongst them: not
for the contempt of baptism, but because he was mainly occupied in delivering the doctrine, and
committed those that received his doctrine to others to be baptized. And so he declared sufficiently
how far he was from all ambition: whereas on the other hand they, whom he reprehends, as though
they gathered disciples to themselves and not to Christ, bragged most ambitiously of numbers,
which they had baptized.

(20) Now he turns himself to the teachers themselves, who pleased themselves in brave and gloryseeking
eloquence, to the end that they might draw more disciples after them. He openly confesses
that he was not similar to them, opposing gravely, as it became an apostle, his example against their
<page=2911>perverse judgments: so that this is another place in this epistle with regard to the observing of a
godly simplicity both in words and sentences in teaching the Gospel.

(l) With eloquence: which Paul casts off from himself not only as unnecessary, but also as
completely contrary to the office of his apostleship: and yet Paul had this kind of eloquence, but it
was heavenly, not of man, and void of fancy words.

(21) The reason why he did not use the pomp of words and fancy speech: because it was God's will
to bring the world to his obedience by that way, by which the most foolish among men might
understand that this work was done by God himself, without the skill of man. Therefore as salvation
is set forth to us in the Gospel by the cross of Christ, which nothing is more contemptible than, and
more far from life, so God would have the manner of the preaching of the cross, most different
from those means with which men do use to draw and entice others, either to hear or believe:
therefore it pleased him by a certain kind of most wise folly, to triumph over the most foolish
wisdom of the world, as he had said before by Isaiah that he would. And by this we may gather that
both these teachers who were puffed up with ambitious eloquence, and also their hearers, strayed far
away from the goal and mark of their calling.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:18
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:18>1 Corinthians 1:18</verse></h3>

For the (m) preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it
is the (n) power of God.

(m) The preaching of Christ crucified, or the type of speech which we use.

(n) It is that in which he declares his marvellous power in saving his elect, which would not so
evidently appear if it depended upon any help of man, for if it did man might attribute that to
himself which is to be attributed only to the cross of Christ.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:19
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:19>1 Corinthians 1:19</verse></h3>

(22) For it is written, I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the
understanding of the prudent.

(22) The apostle proves that this should not seem strange, seeing that it was foretold so long before,
and declares further that God often punishes the pride of the world in such a way, which so pleases
itself in its own wisdom: and therefore that it is vain, indeed a thing of no value, and such as God
rejects as unprofitable, which they so carefully laboured for, and considered to be so important.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:20
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:20>1 Corinthians 1:20</verse></h3>

Where [is] the wise? where [is] the (o) scribe? where [is] the (p) disputer of this world? hath not God
made foolish the wisdom of this world?

<page=2912>(o) Where are you, O you learned fellow, and you that spend your days in turning your books?

(p) You that spend all your time in seeking out the secret things of this world, and in expounding all
hard questions: and thus he triumphs against all the men of this world, for there was not one of
them that could so much as dream of this secret and hidden mystery.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:21
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:21>1 Corinthians 1:21</verse></h3>

(23) For after that in the (q) wisdom of God the (r) world by wisdom knew not God, (24) it pleased
God by the (s) foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.

(23) He shows that the pride of men was worthily punished by God, because they could not behold
God, as they properly should have, in the most clear mirror of the wisdom of the world, and this
wisdom is the workmanship of the world.

(q) By the world he means all men who are not born again, but remain as they were, when they were
first born.

(r) In the workmanship of this world, which has the marvellous wisdom of God engraved on it, so
that every man may behold it.

(24) The goodness of God is wonderful, for while he goes about to punish the pride of this world,
he is very provident and careful for the salvation of it, and teaches men to become fools, so that
they may be wise to God.

(s) So he calls the preaching of the Gospel, as the enemies supposed it to be: but in the mean time
he taunts those very sharply who had rather charge God with folly than acknowledge their own, and
crave pardon for it.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:22
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:22>1 Corinthians 1:22</verse></h3>

(25) For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom:

(25) A declaration of that which he said: that the preaching of the Gospel is foolish. It is foolish, he
says, to those whom God has not endued with new light, that is to say, to all men being considered
in themselves: for the Jews require miracles, and the Greeks arguments, which they may comprehend
by their intellect and wisdom: and therefore they do not believe the Gospel, and also mock it.
Nonetheless, in this foolish preaching there is the great power and wisdom of God, but such that
only those who are called perceive: God showing most plainly, that even then when mad men think
him most foolish, he is far wiser than they are, and that he surmounts all their might and power,
when he uses most vile and abject things, as it has appeared in the fruit of the preaching of the
Gospel.

#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:26
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:26>1 Corinthians 1:26</verse></h3>

<page=2913>(26) For ye see your (t) calling, brethren, how that not many wise men (u) after the flesh, not many
mighty, not many noble, [are called]:

(26) A confirmation taken from those things which came to pass at Corinth, where the church
especially consisted of the lowly and common people, insomuch that the philosophers of Greece
were driven to shame when they saw that they could do nothing with their wisdom and eloquence in
comparison with the apostles, whom nonetheless they called idiots and unlearned. And in this he
beats down their pride: for God did not prefer them before those noble and wise men so that they
should be proud, but that they might be constrained, whether they wished to or not, to rejoice in the
Lord, by whose mercy, although they were the most abject of all, they had obtained in Christ both
this wisdom as well as all things necessary to salvation.

(t) What way the Lord has taken in calling you.

(u) After that type of wisdom which men consider to be important, as though there were none else:
but because they are carnal, they do not know spiritual wisdom.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:28
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:28>1 Corinthians 1:28</verse></h3>

And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, [yea], and things
which (x) are not, to bring to (y) nought things that are:

(x) Which in man's judgment are almost nothing.

(y) To show that they are vain and unprofitable, and worth nothing. See<bcv=Rom 3:31> Rom 3:31</bcv>
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:29
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:29>1 Corinthians 1:29</verse></h3>

That no (z) flesh should glory in his presence.

(z) "Flesh" is often, as we see, taken for the whole man: and he uses this word "flesh" very well, to
contrast the weak and miserable condition of man with the majesty of God.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:30
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:30>1 Corinthians 1:30</verse></h3>

But (a) of him are ye in Christ Jesus, (27) who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness,
and sanctification, and redemption:

(a) Whom he cast down before, now he lifts up, indeed, higher than all men: yet in such a way that
he shows them that all their worthiness is outside of themselves, that is, it stands in Christ, and that
of God.

(27) He teaches that especially and above all things, the Gospel ought not to be condemned, seeing
that it contains the principal things that are to be desired, that is, true wisdom, the true way to obtain
<page=2914>righteousness, the true way to live honestly and godly, and the true deliverance from all miseries and
calamities.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 1:31
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 1:31>1 Corinthians 1:31</verse></h3>

That, according as it is written, (b) He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

(b) Let him yield all to God and give him thanks: and so by this place is man's free will beaten down,
which the papists so dream about.

<h2>1 Corinthians 2</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:1
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:1>1 Corinthians 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2915>And (1) I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom,
declaring unto you the (a) testimony of God.



(1) He returns to (<bcv=1Co 1:17>Co1 1:17</bcv>), that is to say, to his own example: confessing that he did not use among
them either excellency of words or enticing speech of man's wisdom, but with great simplicity of
speech both knew and preached Jesus Christ crucified, humbled and abject, with regard to the flesh.



(a) The Gospel.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:2
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:2>1 Corinthians 2:2</verse></h3>



For I (b) determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.



(b) I did not profess any knowledge but the knowledge of Christ and him crucified.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:3
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:3>1 Corinthians 2:3</verse></h3>



And I was with you in (c) weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling.



(c) He contrasts weakness with excellency of words, and therefore joins with it fear and trembling,
which are companions of true modesty, not such fear and trembling as terrify the conscience, but
such as are contrary to vanity and pride.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:4
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:4>1 Corinthians 2:4</verse></h3>



And my speech and my preaching [was] not with enticing words of man's wisdom, (2) but in (d)
demonstration of the Spirit and of power:



(2) He turns now to the commendation of his ministry, which he had granted to his adversaries: for
his strength and power, which they knew well enough, was so much the more excellent because it
had no worldly help behind it.



(d) By "demonstration" he means such a proof as is made by reasons both certain and necessary.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:5
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:5>1 Corinthians 2:5</verse></h3>




(3) That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.



(3) And he tells the Corinthians that he did it for their great profit, because they might by this know
manifestly that the Gospel was from heaven. Therefore he privately rebukes them, because in vainly
seeking to be noticed, they willingly deprived themselves of the greatest help of their faith.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:6
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:6>1 Corinthians 2:6</verse></h3>


<page=2916>(4) Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are (e) perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world,
nor of the (f) princes of this world, that come to nought:



(4) Another argument taken from the nature of the thing, that is, of the Gospel, which is true
wisdom, but known only to those who are desirous of perfection: and it is unsavoury to those who
otherwise excel in the world, but yet vainly and frailly.



(e) They are called perfect here, not who had already gotten perfection, but those who are striving
for it, as in (<bcv=Philip 3:15>Phi 3:15</bcv>): so that perfect is contrasted with weak.



(f) Those that are wiser, richer, or mightier than other men are.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:7
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:7>1 Corinthians 2:7</verse></h3>




(5) But we speak the wisdom of God in a (g) mystery, [even] the hidden [wisdom], (6) which God
ordained before the world unto our glory:



(5) He shows the reason why this wisdom cannot be perceived by those excellent worldly intellects:
that is, because it is indeed so deep that they cannot attain to it.



(g) Which men could not so much as dream of. (6) He takes away an objection: if it is so hard, when
and how is it known? God, he says, determined with himself from the beginning, that which his
purpose was to bring forth at this time out of his secrets, for the salvation of men.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:8
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:8>1 Corinthians 2:8</verse></h3>




(7) Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known [it], they would not have
crucified the (h) Lord of glory.



(7) He takes away another objection: why then, how comes it to pass that this wisdom was so
rejected by men of the highest authority, that they crucified Christ himself ? Paul answers: because
they did not know Christ such as he was.



(h) That mighty God, full of true majesty and glory: now this place has in it a most evident proof of
the divinity of Christ, and of the joining of the two natures in one in him, which has this in it, that
which is proper to the manhood alone is confirmed of the Godhead joined with the manhood. This
type of speech is called, by the old fathers, a making common of things belonging to someone with
another to whom they do not belong.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:9
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:9>1 Corinthians 2:9</verse></h3>


<page=2917>(8) But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the (i) heart of
man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.



(8) Another objection: but how could it be that those intelligent men could not perceive this wisdom?
Paul answers: because we preach those things which surpass all man's understanding.



(i) Man cannot so much as think of them, much less conceive them with his senses.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:10
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:10>1 Corinthians 2:10</verse></h3>




(9) But God hath revealed [them] unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit (k) searcheth all things, yea, the
deep things of God.



(9) A question: if it surpasses the capacity of men, how can it be understood by any man, or how
can you declare and preach it? By a special enlightening of God's Spirit, with which whoever is
inspired, he can enter even into the very secrets of God.



(k) There is nothing so secret and hidden in God, but the Spirit of God penetrates it.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:11
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:11>1 Corinthians 2:11</verse></h3>




(10) For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the (l) spirit of man which is in him? even so
the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.



(10) He sets it forth in comparison, which he spoke by the inspiration of the Sprit. As the power of
man's intellect searches out things pertaining to man, so does our mind by the power of the Holy
Spirit understand heavenly things.



(l) The mind of man which is endued with the ability to understand and judge.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:12
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:12>1 Corinthians 2:12</verse></h3>



Now we have received, not the (m) spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; (11) that we
might (n) know the things that are freely given to us of God.



(m) The Spirit which we have received does not teach us things of this world, but lifts us up to God,
and this verse teaches us the opposite of what the papists teach: what faith is, from where it comes,
and from what power it originates.



(11) That which he spoke generally, he confines now to those things which God has opened to us of
our salvation in Christ: so that no man should separate the Spirit from the preaching of the word
and Christ: or should think that those fanciful men are governed by the Spirit of God, who
wandering besides the word, thrust upon us their vain imaginations for the secrets of God.



(n) This word "know" is taken here in its proper sense for true knowledge, which the Spirit of God
works in us.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:13
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:13>1 Corinthians 2:13</verse></h3>


<page=2918>(12) Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the
Holy Ghost teacheth; (o) comparing spiritual things with spiritual.



(12) Now he returns to his purpose, and concludes the argument which he began in verse six (<bcv=1Co 2:6>Co1 2:6</bcv>), 
and it is this: the words must be applied to the matter, and the matter must be set forth with
words which are proper and appropriate for it: now this wisdom is spiritual and not from man, and
therefore it must be delivered by a spiritual type of teaching, and not by enticing words of man's
eloquence, so that the simple, and yet wonderful majesty of the Holy Spirit may appear in it.



(o) Applying the words to the matter, that is, that as we teach spiritual things, so must our type of
teaching be spiritual.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:14
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:14>1 Corinthians 2:14</verse></h3>

(13) But the (p) natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness
unto him: neither can he know [them], because they are (q) spiritually discerned.

(13) Again he anticipates an offence or stumbling block: how does it come to pass that so few allow
these things? This is not to be marvelled at, the apostle says, seeing that men in their natural powers
(as they call them) are not endued with that faculty by which spiritual things are discerned (which
faculty comes another way) and therefore they consider spiritual wisdom as folly: and it is as if he
should say, "It is no marvel that blind men cannot judge of colours, seeing that they lack the light of
their eyes, and therefore light is to them as darkness."

(p) The man that has no further light of understanding, than that which he brought with him, even
from his mother's womb, as Jude defines it; ().

(q) By the power of the Holy Spirit.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:15
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:15>1 Corinthians 2:15</verse></h3>

(14) But he that is spiritual (r) judgeth all things, yet (15) he himself is judged of (s) no man.

(14) He amplifies the matter by opposites.

(r) Understands and discerns.

(15) The wisdom of the flesh, Paul says, determines nothing certainly, no not in its own affairs,
much less can it discern strange, that is, spiritual things. But the Spirit of God, with which spiritual
men are endued, can by no means be deceived, and therefore be reproved by any man.

(s) Of no man: for when the prophets are judged of the prophets, it is the Spirit that judges, and not
the man.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 2:16
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 2:16>1 Corinthians 2:16</verse></h3>

<page=2919>(16) For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may (t) instruct him? But we have (u) the
mind of Christ.

(16) A reason from the former saying: for he is called spiritual, who has learned that by the power of
the Spirit, which Christ has taught us. Now if that which we have learned from that Master could be
reproved by any man, he must be wiser than God: whereupon it follows that they are not only
foolish, but also wicked, who think that they can devise something that is either more perfect, or
that they can teach the wisdom of God a better way than those knew or taught who were
undoubtedly endued with God's Spirit.

(t) Lay his head to his, and teach him what he should do.

(u) We are endued with the Spirit of Christ, who opens to us those secrets which by all other means
are unsearchable, and also any truth at all.

<h2>1 Corinthians 3</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:1
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:1>1 Corinthians 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=2920>And (1) I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto (a) carnal, [even] as unto
babes in Christ.



(1) Having declared the worthiness of heavenly wisdom, and of the Gospel, and having generally
condemned the blindness of man's mind, now at length he applies it particularly to the Corinthians,
calling them carnal, that is, those in whom the flesh still prevails against the Spirit. And he brings a
twofold testimony of it: first, because he had proved them to be such, in so much that he dealt with
them as he would with ignorant men, and those who are almost babes in the doctrine of godliness,
and second, because they showed indeed by these dissensions, which sprang up by reason of the
ignorance of the power of the Spirit, and heavenly wisdom, that they had profited very little or
nothing.



(a) He calls them carnal, who are as yet ignorant, and therefore to express it better, he calls them
"babes".
#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:2
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:2>1 Corinthians 3:2</verse></h3>



I have fed you with milk, and not with (b) meat: for hitherto ye were not (c) able [to bear it], neither
yet now are ye able.



(b) Substantial meat, or strong meat.



(c) To be fed by me with substantial meat: therefore as the Corinthians grew up in age, so the apostle
nourished them by teaching, first with milk, then with strong meat. The difference was only in the
manner of teaching.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:3
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:3>1 Corinthians 3:3</verse></h3>



For ye are yet carnal: for whereas [there is] among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not
carnal, and walk as (d) men?



(d) Using the tools of man's intellect and judgment.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:5
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:5>1 Corinthians 3:5</verse></h3>




(2) Who then is Paul, and who [is] Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord
gave to every man?



(2) After he has sufficiently reprehended ambitious teachers, and those who foolishly esteemed them,
now he shows how the true ministers are to be esteemed, that we do not attribute to them more or
<page=2921>less than we ought to do. Therefore he teaches us that they are those by whom we are brought to
faith and salvation, but yet as the ministers of God, and such as do nothing of themselves, but God
so working by them as it pleases him to furnish them with his gifts. Therefore we do not have to
regard or consider what minister it is that speaks, but what is spoken: and we must depend only
upon him who speaks by his servants.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:6
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:6>1 Corinthians 3:6</verse></h3>




(3) I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase.



(3) He beautifies the former sentence, with two similarities: first comparing the company of the
faithful to a field which God makes fruitful, when it is sown and watered through the labour of his
servants. Second, be comparing it to a house, which indeed the Lord builds, but by the hands of his
workmen, some of whom he uses in laying the foundation, others in building it up. Now, both these
similarities are for this purpose, to show that all things are wholly accomplished only by God's
authority and might, so that we must only have an eye to him. Moreover, although God uses some in
the better part of the work, we must not therefore condemn others, in respect of them, and much
less may we divide or set them apart (as these factious men did) seeing that all of them labour in
God's business. They work in such a way, that they serve to finish the very same work, although by a
different manner of working, in so much that they all need one another's help.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:9
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:9>1 Corinthians 3:9</verse></h3>



For we are (e) labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, [ye are] God's building.



(e) Serving under him: now they who serve under another do nothing by their own strength, but as
it is given them of grace, which grace makes them fit for that service. See (<bcv=1Co 15:10>Co1 15:10</bcv>; <bcv=2Co 3:6>Co2 3:6</bcv>). All
the increase that comes by their labour proceeds from God in such a way that no part of the praise
of it may be given to the servant.

#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:10
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:10>1 Corinthians 3:10</verse></h3>



According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the
foundation, and another buildeth thereon. (4) But let every man take heed how he buildeth
thereupon.



(4) Now he speaks to the teachers themselves, who succeeded him in the church of Corinth, and in
this regard to all that were after or will be pastors of congregations, seeing that they succeed into the
labour of the apostles, who were planters and chief builders. Therefore he warns them first that they
do not persuade themselves that they may build after their own fantasy, that is, that they may
propound and set forth anything in the Church, either in matter, or in type of teaching, different
from the apostles who were the chief builders.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:11
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:11>1 Corinthians 3:11</verse></h3>


<page=2922>(5) For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.



(5) Moreover, he shows what this foundation is, that is, Christ Jesus, from whom they may not turn
away in the least amount in the building up of this building.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:12
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:12>1 Corinthians 3:12</verse></h3>




(6) Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble;



(6) Thirdly he shows that they must take heed that the upper part of the building is answerable to
the foundation. That is that admonitions, exhortations, and whatever pertains to the edifying of the
flock, is answerable to the doctrine of Christ, in the matter as well as in form. This doctrine is
compared to gold, silver, and precious stones: of which material Isaiah also and John in the
Revelation build the heavenly city. And to these are the opposites, wood, hay, stubble, that is to say,
curious and vain questions or decrees: and to be short, all the type of teaching which serves to vain
show. For false doctrines, of which he does not speak here, are not correctly said to be built upon
this foundation, unless perhaps in show only.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:13
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:13>1 Corinthians 3:13</verse></h3>




(7) Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed
by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is.



(7) He testifies, as indeed it truly is, that all are not good builders, not even all of those who stand
upon this one and only foundation. However, this work of evil builders, he says, stands for a season,
yet it will not always deceive, because the light of the truth appearing at length, as day, will dissolve
this darkness, and show what it is. And as that stuff is tried by the fire, whether it is good or not, so
will God in his time, by the touch of his Spirit and word, try all buildings, and so will it come to pass,
that those which are found pure and sound, will still continue so, to the praise of the workmen. But
they that are otherwise will be consumed and vanish away, and so will the workman be frustrated of
the hope of his labour, who pleased himself in a thing of nothing.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:15
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:15>1 Corinthians 3:15</verse></h3>



If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but (8) he himself shall be saved; yet so as by
fire.



(8) He does not take away the hope of salvation from the unskilful and foolish builders, who hold
fast the foundation, of which sort were those rhetoricians, rather than the pastors of Corinth.
However, he adds an exception, that they must nonetheless suffer this trial of their work, and also
abide the loss of their vain labours.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:16
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:16>1 Corinthians 3:16</verse></h3>


<page=2923>(9) Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and [that] the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?



(9) Continuing still in the metaphor of building, he teaches us that this ambition is not only vain, but
also sacrilegious: for he says that the Church is as it were the Temple of God, which God has as it
were consecrated to himself by his Spirit. Then turning himself to these ambitious men, he shows
that they profane the Temple of God, because those vain arts in which they please themselves so
much are, as he teaches, many pollutions of the holy doctrine of God, and the purity of the Church.
This wickedness will not go unpunished.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:17
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:17>1 Corinthians 3:17</verse></h3>



If any man (f) defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy,
which [temple] ye are.



(f) Defiles it and makes it unclean, being holy: and surely they do defile it, by Paul's judgment, who
by fleshly eloquence defile the purity of the Gospel.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:18
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:18>1 Corinthians 3:18</verse></h3>




(10) Let no man deceive himself. If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world, let him
become a fool, that he may be wise.



(10) He concludes by the opposite, that they profess pure wisdom in the Church of God, who
refuse and cast away all those vanities of men. Further, if they are mocked by the world, it is
sufficient for them that they are wise according to the wisdom of God, and as he will have them to
be wise.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:19
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:19>1 Corinthians 3:19</verse></h3>



For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He (g) taketh the wise in
their own craftiness.



(g) Be they ever so crafty, yet the Lord will take them when he will discover their treachery.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:21
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:21>1 Corinthians 3:21</verse></h3>




(11) Therefore let no man (h) glory in men. For all things are (i) yours;



(11) He returns to the proposition of the second verse, first warning the hearers, that from now on
they do not esteem as lords those whom God has appointed to be ministers and not lords of their
salvation. This is done by those that depend upon men, and not upon God that speaks by them.

<page=2924>(h) Please himself.



(i) Helps, appointed for your benefit.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 3:22
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 3:22>1 Corinthians 3:22</verse></h3>



Whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the (12) world, or life, or death, or things present, or things
to come; all are yours;



(12) He passes from the persons to the things themselves, that his argument may be more forcible.
Indeed, he ascends from Christ to the Father, to show that we rest ourselves not in Christ himself, in
that he is man, but because he carries us up even to the Father, as Christ witnesses of himself
everywhere that he was sent by his Father, that by this band we may be all united with God himself.

<h2>1 Corinthians 4</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 4:1
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 4:1>1 Corinthians 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=2925>Let (1) a (a) man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of
God.



(1) He concludes the duty of the hearers towards their ministers: that they do not esteem them as
lords. Yet nonetheless they are to give ear to them, as to those that are sent from Christ. Sent I say to
this end and purpose, that they may receive as it were at their hands the treasure of salvation which
is drawn out of the secrets of God.



(a) Every man.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 4:2
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 4:2>1 Corinthians 4:2</verse></h3>




(2) Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.



(2) Last of all, he warns the ministers that they also do not behave themselves as lords, but as
faithful servants, because they must render an account of their stewardship to God.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 4:3
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 4:3>1 Corinthians 4:3</verse></h3>




(3) But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged of you, (4) or of man's (b) judgment:
yea, (5) I judge not mine own self.



(3) In reprehending others, he sets himself for an example, and anticipates an objection. Using the
gravity of an apostle, he shows that he does not care for the contrary judgments that those have of
him, in that they esteemed him as a vile person, because he did not set forth himself as they did.
And he brings good reasons why he was not moved with the judgments which they had of him. (4)
First, because that which men judge in these cases of their own brains is not to be considered any
more than when the unlearned judge of wisdom.



(b) Literally, "day", after the manner of Cilician speech. (5) Secondly, he says, how can you judge
how much or how little I am to be made responsible for, seeing that I myself who know myself
better than you do, and who dare profess that I have walked in my calling with a good conscience,
dare not yet nonetheless claim anything to myself. Nonetheless, I know that I am not blameless:
much less therefore should I flatter myself as you do.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 4:4
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 4:4>1 Corinthians 4:4</verse></h3>



For I know nothing by myself; yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the (c) Lord.



(c) I submit myself to the Lord's judgment.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 4:5
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 4:5>1 Corinthians 4:5</verse></h3>


<page=2926>(6) Therefore judge nothing before the time, until the Lord come, who both will bring to light the
hidden things of darkness, and will make manifest the counsels of the hearts: and then shall every
man have (d) praise of God.



(6) A third reason proceeding from a conclusion, as it were, out of the former reasons. It is God's
office to esteem every man according to his value, because he knows the secrets of the heart, which
men for the most part are ignorant of. Therefore this judgment does not pertain to you.



(d) One could not be praised above the rest, without the others being blamed: and he mentions
praise rather than lack of praise, because the beginning of this dispute was this, that they gave more
to some men than was appropriate.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 4:6
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 4:6>1 Corinthians 4:6</verse></h3>




(7) And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to myself and [to] Apollos for your
sakes; that ye might learn (e) in us not to think [of men] above that which is written, that no one of
you be puffed up for one against another.



(7) Having rejected their judgment, he sets forth himself again as a singular example of modesty, as
one who concealed in this epistle those factious teacher's names, did not hesitate to put down his
own name and Apollos' in their place, and took upon him as it were their shame. And this shows
how far was he from preferring himself to any.



(e) By our example, who choose rather to take other men's faults upon us, than to find fault with any
by name.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 4:7
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 4:7>1 Corinthians 4:7</verse></h3>




(8) For who maketh thee to differ [from another]? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive?
now if thou didst receive [it], why dost thou glory, as if (f) thou hadst not received [it]?



(8) He shows a good way to bridle pride. First, if you consider how it is wrong for you to exclude
yourself from the number of others, seeing you are a man yourself. Second, if you consider that
even though you have something more than other men have, yet you only have it by God's
bountifulness. And what wise man is he that will brag of another's goodness, and that against God?



(f) There is nothing then in us by nature that is worthy of commendation: but all that we have, we
have it of grace, which the Pelegians and semi-Pelegians will not confess.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 4:8
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 4:8>1 Corinthians 4:8</verse></h3>


<page=2927>(9) Now ye are full, now ye are rich, ye have reigned as kings without us: and I would to God ye did
reign, that we also might reign with you.



(9) He descends to a most grave mockery, to cause those glory-seeking men to blush, even though
they did not want to.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 4:9
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 4:9>1 Corinthians 4:9</verse></h3>



For I think that God hath set forth us the apostles last, as it were appointed to death: for we are
made a (g) spectacle unto the world, and to angels, and to men.



(g) He that thinks that Paul and the pope are alike, who lyingly boasts that he is his successor, let him
compare the delicacies of the popish court with Paul's state as we see it here.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 4:13
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 4:13>1 Corinthians 4:13</verse></h3>



Being defamed, we intreat: we are made as the (h) filth of the world, [and are] the offscouring of all
things unto this day.



(h) Such as is gathered together by sweeping.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 4:14
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 4:14>1 Corinthians 4:14</verse></h3>




(10) I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn [you].



(10) Moderating the sharpness of his mockery, he puts them in mind to remember of whom they
were begotten in Christ, and that they should not doubt to follow him for an example. Even though
he seems vile according to the outward show in respect of others, yet he is mighty by the efficacy of
God's Spirit, as had been shown among themselves.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 4:17
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 4:17>1 Corinthians 4:17</verse></h3>



For this cause have I sent unto you Timotheus, who is my beloved son, and faithful in the Lord, who
shall bring you into remembrance of my (i) ways which be in Christ, as I teach every where in every
church.



(i) What way and rule I follow everywhere in teaching the churches.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 4:18
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 4:18>1 Corinthians 4:18</verse></h3>




(11) Now some are puffed up, as though I would not come to you.



(11) Last of all he descends also to apostolic threatenings, but yet chiding them as a father, lest by
their disorder he was forced to come to punish some among them.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 4:19
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 4:19>1 Corinthians 4:19</verse></h3>

<page=2928>But I will come to you shortly, if the Lord will, and will know, not the (k) speech of them which are
puffed up, but the power.



(k) By words, he means their fancy and elaborate type of eloquence, which he contrasts with the
power of the Holy Spirit.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 4:21
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 4:21>1 Corinthians 4:21</verse></h3>




(12) What will ye? shall I come unto you with a rod, or in love, and [in] the (l) spirit of meekness?



(12) A passing over to another part of this epistle, in which he reprehends most sharply a very
odious offence, showing the use of ecclesiastical correction.



(l) Acting meekly towards you.

<h2>1 Corinthians 5</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 5:1
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 5:1>1 Corinthians 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=2929>It is (1) reported commonly [that there is] fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so
much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father's wife.



(1) They are greatly to be reprehended who by allowing wickedness, set forth the Church of God to
be mocked and scorned by infidels.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 5:2
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 5:2>1 Corinthians 5:2</verse></h3>




(2) And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be
taken away from among you.



(2) There are none more proud than they that least know themselves.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 5:3
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 5:3>1 Corinthians 5:3</verse></h3>




(3) For I verily, as absent in body, but present in (a) spirit, have judged already, as though I were
present, [concerning] him that hath so done this deed,



(3) Excommunication ought not to be committed to one man's power, but must be done by the
authority of the whole congregation, after the matter is diligently examined.



(a) In mind, thought, and will.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 5:4
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 5:4>1 Corinthians 5:4</verse></h3>



In the (b) name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, (4) with the
power of our Lord Jesus Christ,



(b) Calling upon Christ's name. (4) There is no doubt that the judgment is ratified in heaven, in
which Christ himself sits as Judge.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 5:5
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 5:5>1 Corinthians 5:5</verse></h3>




(5) To (c) deliver such an one unto Satan for the (6) destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be
saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.



(5) The one who is excommunicated is delivered to the power of Satan, in that he is cast out of the
house of God.



(c) What it is to be delivered to Satan the Lord himself declares when he says, "Let him be unto thee
as a heathen and publican"; (<bcv=Mat 18:17>Mat 18:17</bcv>). That is to say, to be disfranchised and put out of the right
<page=2930>and privileges of the city of Christ, which is the Church, outside of which Satan is lord and master.



(6) The goal of excommunication is not to cast away the excommunicate that he should utterly
perish, but that he may be saved, that is, that by this means his flesh may be tamed, that he may learn
to live to the Spirit.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 5:6
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 5:6>1 Corinthians 5:6</verse></h3>




(7) Your glorying (d) [is] not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?



(7) Another goal of excommunication is that others are not infected, and therefore it must of
necessity be retained in the Church, so that one is not infected by the other.



(d) Is nothing and not grounded upon good reason, as though you were excellent, and yet there is
such wickedness found among you.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 5:7
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 5:7>1 Corinthians 5:7</verse></h3>




(8) Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new (e) lump, as ye are unleavened. For even
Christ our (f) passover is sacrificed for us:



(8) By alluding to the ceremony of the passover, he exhorts them to cast out that unclean person
from among them. In times past, he says, it was not lawful for those who celebrated the passover to
eat unleavened bread, insomuch that he was held as unclean and unworthy to eat the passover,
whoever had but tasted of leaven. Now our whole life must be as it were the feast of unleavened
bread, in which all they that are partakers of that immaculate lamb which is slain, must cast out both
of themselves, and also out of their houses and congregations, all impurity.



(e) By lump he means the whole body of the Church, every member of which must be unleavened
bread, that is, be renewed in spirit, by plucking away the old corruption.



(f) The Lamb of our passover.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 5:8
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 5:8>1 Corinthians 5:8</verse></h3>



Therefore let us keep the (g) feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and
wickedness; but with the unleavened [bread] of sincerity and truth.



(g) Let us lead our whole life as it were a continual feast, honestly and uprightly.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 5:9
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 5:9>1 Corinthians 5:9</verse></h3>




(9) I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators:



(9) Now he speaks more generally: and that which he spoke before of the incestuous person he
shows that it pertains to others, who are known to be wicked and those who through their wicked
<page=2931>life are a slander to the Church, who ought also by lawful order be cast out of the community of the
Church. And making mention of eating meals, either he means that feast of love at which the
supper of the Lord was received, or else their common usage and manner of life. And this is to be
properly understood, lest any man should think that either matrimony was broken by
excommunication, or such duties hindered and cut off by it, as we owe one to another: children to
their parents, subjects to their rulers, servants to their masters, and neighbour to neighbour, to win
one another to God.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 5:10
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 5:10>1 Corinthians 5:10</verse></h3>



Yet not (h) altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or
with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world.



(h) If you should utterly abstain from such men's company, you should go out of the world.
Therefore I speak of those who are in the very bosom of the Church, who must be brought back
into order by discipline, and not of those who are outside of the Church, with whom we must
labour by all means possible, to bring them to Christ.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 5:12
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 5:12>1 Corinthians 5:12</verse></h3>




(10) For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?



(10) Those who are false brethren ought to be cast out of the congregation. As for those who are
outside of it, they must be left to the judgment of God.

<h2>1 Corinthians 6</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 6:1
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 6:1>1 Corinthians 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=2932>Dare (1) (a) any of you, having a matter against another, go to law (b) before the unjust, (2) and not
before the saints?



(1) The third question is of civil judgments. Whether it is lawful for one of the faithful to draw
another of the faithful before the judgment seat of an infidel? He answers that is not lawful because
it is an offence for the faithful to do this, for it is not evil in itself that a matter be brought before
the judgment seat, even of an infidel.



(a) As if he said, "Have you become so impudent, that you are not ashamed to make the Gospel a
laughing stock to profane men?"



(b) Before the unjust. (2) He adds that he does not forbid that one neighbour may go to law with
another, if need so require, but yet under holy judges.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 6:2
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 6:2>1 Corinthians 6:2</verse></h3>




(3) Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are
ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters?



(3) He gathers by a comparison that the faithful cannot seek to be judged by infidels, without great
injury done to the saints, seeing that God himself will make the saints judges of the world, and of
the devils, with his Son Christ. Much more ought they to judge these light and final causes which
may be by equity, and good conscience determined.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 6:4
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 6:4>1 Corinthians 6:4</verse></h3>




(4) If then ye have (c) judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are (d) least
esteemed in the church.



(4) The conclusion, in which he prescribes a remedy for this wrong: that is, if they end their private
affairs between themselves by chosen arbiters out of the Church: for which matter and purpose, the
least of you, he says, is sufficient. Therefore he does not condemn judgment seats, but shows what
is expedient for the circumstance of the time, and that without any diminishing of the right of the
magistrate. For he does not speak of judgments, which are practised between the faithful and the
infidels, neither of public judgments, but of controversies which may be ended by private arbiters.



(c) Courts and places of judgments.


(d) Even the most abject among you.

#BCV:1 Corinthians 6:5
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 6:5>1 Corinthians 6:5</verse></h3>



(5) I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one that shall be
able to judge between his brethren?



(5) He applies the general proposition to a particular, always calling them back to this, to take away
from them the false opinion of their own excellency from where all these evils sprang.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 6:7
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 6:7>1 Corinthians 6:7</verse></h3>




(6) Now therefore there is utterly a (e) fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. (7)
Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather [suffer yourselves to] be defrauded?



(6) Now he goes further also, and even though by granting them private arbiters out of the
congregation of the faithful, he does not simply condemn, but rather establishes private judgments,
so that they are exercise without offence. Yet he shows that if they were such as they ought to be,
and as it were to be wished, they should not need to use that remedy either.



(e) A weakness of mind which is said to be in those that allow themselves to be overcome by their
lusts, and it is a fault that differs greatly from temperance and moderation: so that he nips those who
could not endure an injury done to them. (7) This pertains chiefly to the other part of the
reprehension, that is, that they went to law even under infidels, whereas they should rather have
suffered any loss, than to have given that offence. But yet this is generally true, that we ought rather
to depart from our right, than try the uttermost of the law hastily, and upon an affection to revenge
an injury. But the Corinthians cared for neither, and therefore he says that they must repent, unless
they will be shut out of the inheritance of God.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 6:9
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 6:9>1 Corinthians 6:9</verse></h3>



Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? (8) Be not deceived:
neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with
mankind,



(8) Now he prepares himself to pass over to the fourth treatise of this epistle, which concerns other
matters, concerning this matter first, how men may well use a woman or not. And this question has
three parts: fornication, matrimony, and a single life. As for fornication, he utterly condemns it. And
marriage he commands to some, as a good and necessary remedy for them: to others he leaves is
free. And others he dissuades from it, not as unlawful, but as inconvenient, and that not without
exception. As for singleness of life (under which also I comprehend virginity) he enjoins it to no
man: yet he persuades men to it, but not for itself, but for another respect, neither to all men, nor
without exception. And being about to speak against fornication, he begins with a general
reprehension of those vices, with which that rich and riotous city most abounded: warning and
teaching them earnestly, that repentance is inseparable joined with forgiveness of sins, and
sanctification with justification.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 6:11
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 6:11>1 Corinthians 6:11</verse></h3>

<page=2934>And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the (f)
name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.



(f) In Jesus.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 6:12
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 6:12>1 Corinthians 6:12</verse></h3>




(9) (g) All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but
I will not be brought under the (h) power of any.



(9) Secondly, he shows that the Corinthians offend in small matters. First, because they abused them.
Next, because they used indifferent things, without any discretion, seeing the use of them ought to
be brought to the rule of charity. And that he does not use them correctly, who immoderately
abuses them, and so becomes a slave to them.



(g) Whatever: but this general word must be restrained to things that are indifferent.



(h) He is in subjection to things that are indifferent, whoever he is that thinks he may not be without
them. And this is a flattering type of slavery under a pretence of liberty, which seizes upon such
men.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 6:13
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 6:13>1 Corinthians 6:13</verse></h3>




(10) Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the
body [is] not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body.



(10) Secondly, because they counted many things as indifferent which were of themselves unlawful,
as fornication, which they numbered among mere natural and lawful desires, as well as food and
drink. Therefore the apostle shows that they are utterly unlike: for foods, he says, were made for the
necessary use of man's life which is not perpetual: for both foods, and all this manner of nourishing,
are quickly abolished. But we must not so think of the uncleanness of fornication, for which the
body is not made, but on the other hand is ordained to purity, as appears by this, that is consecrated
to Christ, even as Christ also is given us by his Father to enliven our bodies with that power with
which he also rose again.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 6:15
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 6:15>1 Corinthians 6:15</verse></h3>




(11) Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of
Christ, and make [them] the members of an harlot? God forbid.



(11) A declaration of the former argument by opposites, and the application of it.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 6:16
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 6:16>1 Corinthians 6:16</verse></h3>


<page=2935>(12) What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for (i) two, saith he, shall
be one flesh.



(12) A proof of the same argument: a harlot and Christ are completely contrary, so are the flesh and
the Spirit. Therefore he that is one with a harlot (which is done by sexual intercourse with their
bodies) cannot be one with Christ, which unity is pure and spiritual.



(i) Moses does not speak these words about fornication, but about marriage: but seeing that
fornication is the corruption of marriage, and both of them are a carnal and fleshly copulation, we
cannot say that the apostle abuses his testimony. Again, Moses does not have this word "two", but it
is very well expressed both here and in (<bcv=Mat 19:5>Mat 19:5</bcv>), because he speaks only of man and wife:
whereupon the opinion of those that vouch it to be lawful to have many wives is overthrown: for he
that companies with many, is broken as it were into many parts.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 6:18
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 6:18>1 Corinthians 6:18</verse></h3>




(13) Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth
fornication sinneth against his own body.



(13) Another argument why fornication is to be avoided, because it defiles the body with a peculiar
type of filthiness.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 6:19
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 6:19>1 Corinthians 6:19</verse></h3>




(14) What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost [which is] in you, which ye
have of God, and (15) ye are not your own?



(14) The third argument: because a fornicator is sacrilegious, because our bodies are consecrated to
God.



(15) The fourth argument: because we are not our own men, to give ourselves to any other, much
less to Satan and the flesh, seeing that God himself has bought us, and that with a great price, to the
end that both in body and soul, we should serve to his glory.

<h2>1 Corinthians 7</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:1
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:1>1 Corinthians 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=2936>Now (1) concerning the things (a) whereof ye wrote unto me: [It is] (b) good for a man not to touch
a woman.



(1) He teaches concerning marriage that although a single life has its advantages, which he will
declare afterwards, yet that marriage is necessary for the avoiding of fornication. But so that neither
one man may have many wives, nor any wife many husbands.



(a) Concerning those matters about which you wrote to me.



(b) Commodious, and (as we say) expedient. For marriage brings many griefs with it, and that by
reason of the corruption of our first estate.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:3
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:3>1 Corinthians 7:3</verse></h3>




(2) Let the husband render unto the wife (c) due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the
husband.



(2) Secondly, he shows that the parties married must with singular affection entirely love one another.



(c) The word "due" contains all types of benevolence, though he speaks more of one sort than of
the other, in that which follows.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:4
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:4>1 Corinthians 7:4</verse></h3>




(3) The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath
not power of his own body, but the wife.



(3) Thirdly, he warns them, that they are in each other's power, with regard to the body, so that they
may not defraud one another.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:5
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:5>1 Corinthians 7:5</verse></h3>



Defraud ye not one the other, (4) except [it be] with consent for a time, that ye may (d) give
yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your
incontinency.



(4) He adds an exception: unless the one abstain from the other by mutual consent, that they may
the better give themselves to prayer, in which nonetheless he warns them to consider what is
expedient, lest by this long breaking off as it were from marriage, they are stirred up to incontinency.



(d) Do nothing else.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:6
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:6>1 Corinthians 7:6</verse></h3>


<page=2937>(5) But I speak this by permission, [and] not of commandment.



(5) Fifthly he teaches that marriage is not necessary for all men, but for those who do not have the
gift of continency, and this gift is by a special grace of God.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:7
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:7>1 Corinthians 7:7</verse></h3>



For I (e) would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one
after this manner, and another after that.



(e) I wish.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:8
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:8>1 Corinthians 7:8</verse></h3>




(6) I say therefore to the (f) unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.



(6) Sixthly, he gives the very same admonition touching the second marriage, that is, that a single life
is to be allowed, but for those who have the gift of continency. Otherwise they ought to marry again,
so that their conscience may be at peace.



(f) This whole passage is completely against those who condemn second marriages.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:9
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:9>1 Corinthians 7:9</verse></h3>



But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to (g) burn.



(g) So to burn with lust, that either the will yields to the temptation, or else we cannot call upon God
with a peaceful conscience.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:10
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:10>1 Corinthians 7:10</verse></h3>




(7) And unto the married I command, [yet] not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from [her]
husband:



(7) Seventhly, he forbids contentions and the granting of divorces (for he speaks not here of the
fault of whoredom, which was then death even by the law of the Romans also) by which he affirms
that the band of marriage is not dissolved, and that from Christ's mouth.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:12
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:12>1 Corinthians 7:12</verse></h3>


<page=2938>(8) But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be
pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away.



(8) Eighthly, he affirms that those marriages which are already contracted between a faithful and an
unfaithful or infidel, are firm: so that the faithful may not forsake the unfaithful.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:14
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:14>1 Corinthians 7:14</verse></h3>




(9) For the unbelieving husband is (h) sanctified by the (i) wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified
by the (k) husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they (l) holy.



(9) He answers an objection: but the faithful is defiled by the company of the unfaithful. The apostle
denies that, and proves that the faithful man with good conscience may use the vessel of his
unfaithful wife, by this, that their children which are born of them are considered holy or legitimate



(that is, contained within the promise): for it is said to all the faithful, "I will be your God, and the
God of your seed."



(h) The godliness of the wife is of more force to cause their marriage to be considered holy, than
the infidelity of the husband is to profane the marriage.



(i) The infidel is not sanctified or made holy in his own person, but in respect of his wife, he is
sanctified to her.



(k) To the faithful husband.



(l) The children are holy in the same sense that their parents are; that is they are sanctified, or
lawfully espoused together, so the children born of them were in a civil and legal sense holy, that is,
legitimate. (Ed.)
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:15
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:15>1 Corinthians 7:15</verse></h3>




(10) But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in (m)
such [cases]: (11) but God hath called us to peace.



(10) He answers a question: what if the unfaithful forsake the faithful? Then the faithful is free, he
says, because he is forsaken by the unfaithful.



(m) When any such thing happens.



(11) Lest any man upon pretence of this liberty should give an occasion to the unfaithful to depart,
he shows that marriage contracted with an infidel ought to be kept peaceably, that if it is possible
the infidel may be won to the faith.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:17
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:17>1 Corinthians 7:17</verse></h3>


<page=2939>(12) But as God hath distributed to every man, as the Lord hath (n) called every one, so let him walk.
And so ordain I in all churches.



(12) Taking occasion by that which he said of the bondage and liberty of matrimony, he digresses to
a general doctrine concerning the outward state and condition of man's life, as circumcision and
uncircumcision, servitude and liberty. And he warns every man generally to live with a contented
mind in the Lord, whatever state or condition he is in, because those outward things, as to be
circumcised or uncircumcised, to be bond or free, are not of the substance (as they call it) of the
kingdom of heaven.



(n) Has bound him to a certain type of life.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:18
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:18>1 Corinthians 7:18</verse></h3>




(13) Is any man called being circumcised? let him not (o) become uncircumcised. Is any called in
uncircumcision? let him not be circumcised.



(13) Nonetheless he shows us that in these examples all are not of the same type: because
circumcision is not simply of itself to be desired, but such as are bound may desire to be free.
Therefore herein only they are equal that the kingdom of God consists not in them, and therefore
these are no hindrance to obey God.



(o) He is said to become uncircumcised, who by the help of a surgeon, recovers an upper skin. And
this is done by drawing the skin with an instrument, to make it to cover the head. Celsus in book 7,
chapter 25.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:21
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:21>1 Corinthians 7:21</verse></h3>



Art thou called [being] a servant? (p) care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use [it] rather.



(p) As though this calling were too unworthy a calling for Christ.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:22
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:22>1 Corinthians 7:22</verse></h3>



For he that is called in the (q) Lord, [being] a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is
called, [being] free, is Christ's servant.



(q) He that is in the state of a servant, and is called to be a Christian.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:23
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:23>1 Corinthians 7:23</verse></h3>




(14) Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.

<page=2940>(14) He shows the reason of the unlikeness, because he that desired to be circumcised makes
himself subject to man's tradition and not to God. And this may be much more understood of
superstitions, which some do foolishly consider to as things indifferent.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:24
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:24>1 Corinthians 7:24</verse></h3>




(15) Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with (r) God.



(15) A repetition of the general doctrine.



(r) So purely and from the heart, that your doings may be approved before God.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:25
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:25>1 Corinthians 7:25</verse></h3>




(16) Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: yet I give my (s) judgment, as (t)
one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful.



(16) He commands virginity to no man, yet he persuades and praised it for another reason, that is,
both for the necessity of the present time, because the faithful could scarce abide in any place, and
use the commodities of this present life because of persecution. And therefore those who were not
troubled with families, might be the readier, and also for the cares of this life, which marriage
necessarily draws with it, so that they cannot but have their minds distracted: and this has place in
women especially.



(s) The circumstances considered, this I counsel you.



(t) It is I that speak this which I am minded to speak: and the truth is I am a man, but yet of worthy
credit, for I have obtained from the Lord to be such a one.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:26
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:26>1 Corinthians 7:26</verse></h3>



I suppose therefore that (u) this is good for the (x) present distress, [I say], that [it is] good for a man
so to be.

(u) To remain a virgin.

(x) For the necessity which the saints are daily subject to, who are continually tossed up and down,
so that their estate may seem most unfit for marriage, were it not that the weakness of the flesh
forced them to it.

#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:28
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:28>1 Corinthians 7:28</verse></h3>

But and if thou marry, thou hast not sinned; and if a virgin marry, she hath not sinned. Nevertheless
such shall have trouble in the (y) flesh: but I (z) spare you.

<page=2941>(y) By the "flesh" he understands whatever things belong to this present life, for marriage brings
with it many problems. So that he leans more to a single life, not because it is a service more
agreeable to God than marriage is, but for those problems which (if it were possible) he would wish
all men to be avoid, so that they might give themselves to God alone.

(z) I would your weakness were provided for.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:29
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:29>1 Corinthians 7:29</verse></h3>

But this I say, brethren, the time [is] (a) short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as
though they had none;



(a) For we are now in the latter end of the world.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:30
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:30>1 Corinthians 7:30</verse></h3>



And they that (b) weep, as though they wept not; and they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not;
and they that buy, as though they possessed not;



(b) By "weeping" the Hebrews understand all adversity, and by "joy", all prosperity.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:31
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:31>1 Corinthians 7:31</verse></h3>



And they that use this (c) world, as not abusing [it]: for the (d) fashion of this world passeth away.



(c) Those things which God gives us here.



(d) The guise, and shape, and fashion: by which he shows us that there is nothing in this world that
continues.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:33
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:33>1 Corinthians 7:33</verse></h3>



But he that is married (e) careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please [his] wife.



(e) Those that are married have their minds drawn here and there, and therefore if any man has the
gift of continency, it is more advantageous for him to live alone. But those who are married may
care for the things of the Lord also. Clement, Strom. 3.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:34
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:34>1 Corinthians 7:34</verse></h3>



There is difference [also] between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things
of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in (f) spirit: but she that is married careth for the
things of the world, how she may please [her] husband.



(f) Mind.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:35
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:35>1 Corinthians 7:35</verse></h3>

<page=2942>And this I speak for your own (g) profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is
comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction.

(g) He means that he will force no man either to marry or not to marry, but to show them plainly
what type of life is most advantageous.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:36
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:36>1 Corinthians 7:36</verse></h3>




(17) But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the
flower of [her] age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he (h) sinneth not: let them marry.



(17) Now he turns himself to the parents, in whose power and authority their children are, warning
them that according to the former doctrine they consider what is proper and convenient for their
children. That they neither deprive them of the necessary remedy against incontinency, nor force
them to marry, if neither their will does lead them, nor any necessity urges them. And again he
praises virginity, but of itself, and not in all.

(h) He does well: for so he expounds it in (<bcv=1Co 7:38>Co1 7:38</bcv>).

#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:37
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:37>1 Corinthians 7:37</verse></h3>



Nevertheless he that standeth stedfast in his (i) heart, having no (k) necessity, but hath power over
his own will, and hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doeth well.



(i) Resolved himself.



(k) That the weakness of his daughter does not force him, or any other matter, that that he may
safely still keep her a virgin.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:38
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:38>1 Corinthians 7:38</verse></h3>



So then he that giveth [her] in marriage doeth well; but he that giveth [her] not in marriage doeth (l)
better.



(l) Provides better for his children, and that not in just any way, but by reason of such conditions as
are mentioned before.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 7:39
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 7:39>1 Corinthians 7:39</verse></h3>




(18) The wife is bound by the (m) law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she
is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the (n) Lord.

<page=2943>(18) That which he spoke of a widower, he speaks now of a widow, that is, that she may marry again,
but that she does it in the fear of God. And yet he does not hide the fact that if she still remains a
widow, she will be free of many cares.



(m) By the law of marriage.



(n) Religiously, and in the fear of God.

<h2>1 Corinthians 8</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 8:1
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 8:1>1 Corinthians 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=2944>Now (1) as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we (a) all have knowledge. Knowledge



(b) puffeth up, but charity (c) edifieth.



(1) He begins to entreat of another type of indifferent things, that is, things offered to idols, or the
use of flesh so offered and sacrificed. And first of all he removes all those things which the
Corinthians pretended in using things offered to idols without any respect. First of all they affirmed
that this difference of foods was for the unskilful men, but as for them, they knew well enough the
benefit of Christ, which causes all these things to be clean to those that are clean. Be it so, Paul says:
even if we are all sufficiently instructed in the knowledge of Christ, I say nonetheless that we must
not simply rest in this knowledge. The reason is, that unless our knowledge is tempered with charity,
it does not only not avail, but also does much hurt, because it is the mistress of pride. Nay, it does
not so much as deserve the name of godly knowledge, if it is separate from the love of God, and
therefore from the love of our neighbour.



(a) This general word is to be abridged as (<bcv=1Co 8:7>Co1 8:7</bcv>) appears, for there is a type of taunt in it, as we
may perceive by (<bcv=1Co 8:2>Co1 8:2</bcv>).



(b) Gives occasion of vanity and pride, because it is void of charity.



(c) Instructs our neighbour.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 8:4
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 8:4>1 Corinthians 8:4</verse></h3>




(2) As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto (d) idols, we
know that an idol [is] (e) nothing in the world, and that [there is] none other God but one.



(2) The application of that answer to things offered to idols: I grant, he says, that an idol is indeed a
vain imagination, and that there is but one God and Lord, and therefore that food cannot be made
either holy or profane by the idol. But it does not follow therefore, that a man may, without regard
of what they are, use those foods as any other.



(d) The word "idol" in this place is taken for an image which is made to represent some godhead, so
that worship might be given to it: whereupon came the word "idolatry", that is to say, "image
service".



(e) Is a vain dream.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 8:6
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 8:6>1 Corinthians 8:6</verse></h3>

<page=2945>But to us [there is but] one God, the Father, (f) of whom [are] all things, and we (g) in him; and (h)
one Lord Jesus Christ, (i) by whom [are] all things, and we by him.



(f) When the Father is distinguished from the Son, he is named the beginning of all things.



(g) We have our being in him.



(h) But as the Father is called Lord, so is the Son therefore God: therefore this word "one" does not
regard the persons, but the natures.



(i) This word "by" does not signify the instrumental cause, but the efficient: for the Father and the
Son work together, which is not so to be taken that we make two causes, seeing they have both but
one nature, though they are distinct persons.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 8:7
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 8:7>1 Corinthians 8:7</verse></h3>




(3) Howbeit [there is] not in every man that knowledge: for (4) some with (k) conscience of the idol
unto this hour eat [it] as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled.



(3) The reason why that does not follow, is this: because there are many men who do not know that
which you know. Now the judgment of outward things depend not only upon your conscience, but
upon the conscience of those that behold you, and therefore your actions must be applied not only
to your knowledge, but also to the ignorance of your brethren. (4) An applying of the reason: there
are many who cannot eat of things offered to idols, except with a wavering conscience, because they
think them to be unclean. Therefore if by your example they wish to do that which inwardly they
think displeases God, their conscience is defiled with this eating, and you have been the occasion of
this mischief.



(k) By conscience of the idol, he means the secret judgment that they had within themselves, by
which they thought all things unclean that were offered to idols, and therefore they could not use
them with good conscience. For conscience has this power, that if it is good, it makes indifferent
things good, and if it is evil, it makes them evil.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 8:8
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 8:8>1 Corinthians 8:8</verse></h3>




(5) But meat commendeth us not to God: for neither, if we eat, are we the better; neither, if we eat
not, are we the worse.



(5) An anticipation of an objection: why then will we therefore be deprived of our liberty? Nay, says
the apostle, you will lose no part of Christianity although you abstain for your brethren's sake, as
also if you receive the food, for it makes you in no way the more holy, for our commendation before
God consists not in foods. But to use our liberty with offence of our brethren is an abuse of liberty,
the true use of which is completely contrary, that is, to use it in such a way that we have
consideration of our weak brethren.

#BCV:1 Corinthians 8:10
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 8:10>1 Corinthians 8:10</verse></h3>


(6) For if any man see thee which hast knowledge sit at meat in the idol's temple, shall not the
conscience of him which is weak be emboldened to eat those things which are offered to idols;



(6) Another plain explication of the same reason, propounding the example of the sitting down at
the table in the idol's temple. This thing the Corinthians did wrongly consider among things
indifferent, because it is simply forbidden for the circumstance of the place, even though the
offence had ceased, as it will be declared in its place.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 8:11
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 8:11>1 Corinthians 8:11</verse></h3>




(7) And through thy knowledge shall the weak brother perish, for whom Christ died?



(7) An amplification of the argument taken both of comparison and opposites: "You wretched
man", he says, "pleasing yourself with your knowledge which indeed is not knowledge, for if you
had true knowledge, you would not sit down to eat food in an idol's temple. Will you destroy your
brother, hardening his weak conscience by this example to do evil, for whose salvation Christ
himself has died?"
#BCV:1 Corinthians 8:12
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 8:12>1 Corinthians 8:12</verse></h3>




(8) But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ.



(8) Another amplification: such offending of our weak brethren, results in the offending of Christ,
and therefore do not let these men think that they have to deal only with their brethren.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 8:13
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 8:13>1 Corinthians 8:13</verse></h3>




(9) Wherefore, if meat make my brother to offend, I will eat no flesh while the world standeth, lest I
make my brother to offend.



(9) The conclusion, which Paul conceives in his own person, that he might not seem to exact that of
others which he will not be first subject to himself. I had rather (he says) abstain forever from all
types of flesh, then give occasion of sin to any of my brethren. And on a smaller scale, in any
certain place or time, I would refuse to eat flesh offered to idols, for my brother's sake.

<h2>1 Corinthians 9</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:1
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:1>1 Corinthians 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=2947>Am (1) I not an apostle? am I not free? (2) have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye (a) my
work in the Lord?



(1) Before he proceeds any further in his purposed matter of things offered to idols, he would show
the cause of all this evil, and also take it away. That is, that the Corinthians thought that they did not
have to depart from the least amount of their liberty for any man's pleasure. Therefore he
propounds himself for an example, and that in a matter almost necessary. And yet he speaks of both,
but first of his own person. If (he says) you allege for yourselves that you are free, and therefore will
use your liberty, am I not also free, seeing I am an apostle? (2) He proves his apostleship by the
effects, in that he was appointed by Christ himself, and the authority of his function was sufficiently
confirmed to him among them by their conversion. And all these things he sets before their eyes, to
make them ashamed because they would not in the least way that might be, debase themselves for
the sake of the weak, whereas the apostle himself did all the he could to win them to God, when
they were utterly reprobate and without God.



(a) By the Lord.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:2
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:2>1 Corinthians 9:2</verse></h3>



If I be not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for the (b) seal of mine apostleship are
ye in the Lord.



(b) As a seal by which it sufficiently appears that God is the author of my apostleship.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:3
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:3>1 Corinthians 9:3</verse></h3>




(3) Mine answer to them that do (c) examine me is this,



(3) He adds this by the way, as if he should say, "So far it is off, that you may doubt of my
apostleship, that I use it to refute those who call it into controversy, by opposing those things which
the Lord has done by me among you."



(c) Which like judges examine me and my doings.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:4
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:4>1 Corinthians 9:4</verse></h3>




(4) Have we not power to (d) eat and to drink?



(4) "Now concerning the matter itself", he says, "seeing that I am free, and truly an apostle, why may
not I (I say not, eat of all things offered to idols) be maintained by my labours, indeed and keep my
<page=2948>wife also, as the rest of the apostles lawfully do, as by name, John and James, the Lord's cousins, and
Peter himself ?"



(d) Upon the expense of the Church?
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:5
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:5>1 Corinthians 9:5</verse></h3>



Have we not power to lead about a (e) sister, a wife, as well as other apostles, and [as] the brethren
of the Lord, and Cephas?



(e) One that is a Christian and a true believer.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:6
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:6>1 Corinthians 9:6</verse></h3>



Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power to (f) forbear working?



(f) Not live by the works of our hands.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:7
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:7>1 Corinthians 9:7</verse></h3>




(5) Who (g) goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of
the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock?



(5) That he may not seem to burden the apostles, he shows that it is just that they do, by an
argument of comparison, seeing that soldiers live by their wages, and husbandmen by the fruits of
their labours, and shepherds by that which comes of their flocks.



(g) Goes to warfare?
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:8
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:8>1 Corinthians 9:8</verse></h3>




(6) Say I these things (h) as a man? or saith not the law the same also?



(6) Secondly, he brings forth the authority of God's institution by an argument of comparison.



(h) Have I not better ground than the common custom of men?
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:9
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:9>1 Corinthians 9:9</verse></h3>



For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out
the corn. Doth God take care for (i) oxen?



(i) Was it God's proper intention to provide for oxen, when he made this law? For there is not the
smallest thing in the world, but that God has a concern for.

#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:11
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:11>1 Corinthians 9:11</verse></h3>


(7) If we have sown unto you spiritual things, [is it] a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?



(7) An assumption of the arguments with an amplification, for neither in so doing do we require a
reward appropriate for our work.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:12
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:12>1 Corinthians 9:12</verse></h3>




(8) If others be partakers of [this] (k) power over you, [are] not we rather? Nevertheless we have not
used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.



(8) Another argument of great force: others are nourished among you, therefore it was lawful for me,
indeed rather for me than any other. And yet I refused it, and had rather still suffer any
inconvenience, than the Gospel of Christ should be hindered.



(k) The word signifies right and interest, by which he shows us that the ministers of the word must
by right and duty be supported by the Church.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:13
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:13>1 Corinthians 9:13</verse></h3>




(9) Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live [of the (l) things] of the temple?
and they which wait at the altar are (m) partakers with the altar?



(9) Last of all he brings forth the express law concerning the nourishing of the Levites, which
privilege nonetheless he will not use.



(l) This is spoken by the figure of speech metonymy, for those things that are offered in the temple.



(m) Are partakers with the altar in dividing the sacrifice.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:14
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:14>1 Corinthians 9:14</verse></h3>



Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live (n) of the gospel.



(n) Because they preach the Gospel. It follows by this place, that Paul received no living, neither
would have any other man receive, by a commodity of masses, or any other such superstitious
nonsense.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:15
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:15>1 Corinthians 9:15</verse></h3>



But I have used none of these things: (10) neither have I written these things, that it should be so
done unto me: for [it were] better for me to die, than that any man should make my glorying void.



(10) He takes away occasion of suspicion by the way, that it might not be thought that he wrote this
as though he was demanding his wages that were not payed him. On the contrary, he says, I had
<page=2950>rather die, than not to continue in this purpose to preach the Gospel freely. For I am bound to
preach the Gospel, seeing that the Lord has given and commanded me this office: but unless I do it
willingly and for the love of God, nothing that I do is to be considered worthwhile. If I had rather
that the Gospel should be evil spoken of, than that I should not require my wages, then would it
appear that I took these pains not so much for the Gospel's sake, as for my gains and advantages.
But I say, this would not be to use, but rather to abuse my right and liberty: therefore not only in this
thing, but also in all others (as much as I could) I am made all things to all men, that I might win
them to Christ, and might together with them be won to Christ.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:18
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:18>1 Corinthians 9:18</verse></h3>



What is my reward then? [Verily] that, when I preach the gospel, I may make the gospel of Christ (o)
without charge, that I abuse not my power in the gospel.



(o) By taking nothing from those to whom I preach it.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:20
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:20>1 Corinthians 9:20</verse></h3>



And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the (p) law,
as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law;



(p) The word "law" in this place must be limited to the ceremonial Law.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:22
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:22>1 Corinthians 9:22</verse></h3>



To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to (q) all [men], that
I might by all means save some.



(q) In matters that are indifferent, which may be done or not done with a good conscience. It is as if
he said, "I accommodated all customs and manners, that by all means I might save some."
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:23
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:23>1 Corinthians 9:23</verse></h3>



And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with (r) [you].



(r) That both I and those to whom I preach the Gospel, may receive fruit by the Gospel.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:24
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:24>1 Corinthians 9:24</verse></h3>




(11) Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye
may obtain.



(11) He brings in another reason for this wrong, that is, that they were given to gluttony, for there
were solemn banquets of sacrifices, and the loose living of the priests was always too much
<page=2951>celebrated and kept. Therefore it was hard for those who were accustomed to loose living, especially
when they pretended the liberty of the Gospel, to be restrained in these banquets. But on the other
hand, the apostle calls them by a pleasant similitude, and also by his own example, to sobriety and
mortification of the flesh, showing that they cannot be fit to run or wrestle (as then the games of
Isthmies were) who pamper up their bodies. And therefore affirming that they can have no reward
unless they take another course and manner of life.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:25
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:25>1 Corinthians 9:25</verse></h3>



And every man that striveth for the mastery is (s) temperate in all things. Now they [do it] to obtain
a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.



(s) Uses a most excellent and moderate diet.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 9:27
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 9:27>1 Corinthians 9:27</verse></h3>



But I keep under my (t) body, and bring [it] into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have
preached to others, I myself should be (u) a castaway.



(t) The old man which strives against the Spirit.



(u) Or, "reproved". And this word "reproved" is not contrasted with the word "elect", but with the
word "approved", when we see someone who is experienced not to be such a one as he ought to be.

<h2>1 Corinthians 10</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:1
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:1>1 Corinthians 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=2952>Moreover, (1) brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our (a) fathers were
under the cloud, and all passed through the sea;



(1) He sets out that which he said, laying before them an example of the horrible judgment of God
against those who had in effect the very same pledges of the same adoption and salvation that we
have. And yet nonetheless when they gave themselves to idol's feasts, they perished in the wilderness,
being horribly and manifoldly punished. Now, moreover and besides that these things are fitly
spoken against those who frequented idol's feasts, the same also seems to be alleged to this end and
purpose, because many men think that those things are not of such great weight that God will be
angry with them if they use them. And so they frequent Christian assemblies and are baptized, and
receive the communion, and confess Christ.



(a) Paul says this in respect of the covenant, and not in respect of the persons, except generally.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:2
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:2>1 Corinthians 10:2</verse></h3>




(2) And were all (b) baptized unto (c) Moses in the cloud and in the sea;



(2) In effect the ordinances of the old fathers were all one with ours, for they respected Christ alone,
who offered himself to them in different forms.



(b) All of them were baptized with the outward sign, but not indeed, because of which God cannot
be blamed, but they themselves.



(c) Moses being their guide.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:3
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:3>1 Corinthians 10:3</verse></h3>



And did all eat the (d) same spiritual (e) meat;



(d) The same that we do.



(e) Manna, which was a spiritual meat to the believers, who in faith lay hold upon Christ, who is the
true meat.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:4
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:4>1 Corinthians 10:4</verse></h3>



And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that (f) followed
them: and that Rock was (g) Christ.



(f) Of the River and running Rock, who followed the people.

<page=2953>(g) Did signify Christ as an ordinance, so that together with the sign, there was the thing signified,
and the truth itself. For God does not offer a bare sign, but the thing signified by the sign together
with it, which is to be received with faith.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:6
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:6>1 Corinthians 10:6</verse></h3>




(3) Now these things were our (h) examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they
also lusted.



(3) An amplifying of the example against those who are carried away with their lusts beyond the
bounds which God has measured out. For this is the beginning of all evil, as of idolatry (which has
gluttony as a companion), fornication, rebelling against Christ, murmuring, and such like. And these
things God punished most sharply in that old people, to the end that we who succeed them, and
have a more full declaration of the will of God, might by that means take better heed.



(h) Some read "figures": which signified our ordinances. For circumcision was to the Jews a seal of
righteousness, to us a symbol of baptism, and so in the other ordinances.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:9
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:9>1 Corinthians 10:9</verse></h3>



Neither let us tempt (i) Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents.



(i) To tempt Christ is to provoke him to a combat as it were, which those men do who abuse the
knowledge that he has given them, and make it to serve for a cloak for their lusts and wickedness.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:11
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:11>1 Corinthians 10:11</verse></h3>



Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition,
upon whom the (k) ends of the world are come.



(k) This our age is called the end, for it is the culmination of all the ages.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:12
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:12>1 Corinthians 10:12</verse></h3>




(4) Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.



(4) In conclusion he descends to the Corinthians themselves, warning them that they do not please
themselves, but rather that they prevent the wiles of Satan. Yet he uses an declaration and comforts
them, that he may not seem to make them altogether similar to those wicked idolaters and
condemners of Christ, who perished in the wilderness.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:13
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:13>1 Corinthians 10:13</verse></h3>

<page=2954>There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to (l) man: but God [is] faithful, who
will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also (m) make a
way to escape, that ye may be able to bear [it].



(l) Which comes from weakness.



(m) He that would have you tempted for your profit's sake, will make a way for you to escape out of
the temptation.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:15
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:15>1 Corinthians 10:15</verse></h3>




(5) I speak as to wise men; judge ye what I say.



(5) Now returning to those idol's feasts, that he may not seem to delay at all: first he promises that
he will use no other reasons, than such as they knew very well themselves. He gives the following
line of reasoning. The holy banquets of the Christians are pledges, first of all, of the community
that they have with Christ, and next, one with another. The Israelites also do ratify in the sacrifices,
their mutual union in the very same religion. Therefore so do the idolaters also join themselves with
their idols, or demons rather (for idols are nothing) in those solemn banquets, whereupon it follows,
that that table is a table of demons, and therefore you must avoid it. For you cannot be partakers of
the Lord and of idols together, much less may such banquets be considered as indifferent things.
Will you then strive with God? And if you do, do you think that you will get the upper hand?
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:16
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:16>1 Corinthians 10:16</verse></h3>



The cup of (n) blessing which we bless, is it not the (o) communion of the blood of Christ? The
bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?



(n) Of thanksgiving: whereupon, that holy banquet was called "eucharist", which is Greek for
thanksgiving.



(o) A most effectual pledge and note of your joining together with Christ, and ingrafting to him.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:18
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:18>1 Corinthians 10:18</verse></h3>



Behold Israel after the (p) flesh: are not they which eat of the sacrifices (q) partakers of the altar?



(p) That is, those who yet observe their ceremonies.



(q) Are consenting and guilty, both of that worship and sacrifice.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:20
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:20>1 Corinthians 10:20</verse></h3>



But I [say], that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to devils, and not to God: and I
would not that ye should have (r) fellowship with devils.

<page=2955>(r) Have anything to do with the demons, or enter into that society which is begun in the demon's
name.

#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:21
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:21>1 Corinthians 10:21</verse></h3>



Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the (s) cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's
table, and of the table of devils.



(s) The heathen and profane people were accustomed to finish up and make an end of their feasts
which they kept to the honour of their gods, in offering meat offerings and drink offerings to them,
with banquets and feastings.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:23
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:23>1 Corinthians 10:23</verse></h3>




(6) (t) All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but
all things edify not.



(6) Coming to another type of things offered to idols, he repeats that general rule, that in the use of
indifferent things we ought to have consideration not of ourselves only, but of our neighbours. And
therefore there are many things which of themselves are lawful, which may be evil when done by us,
because of offence to our neighbour.



(t) See before in (<bcv=1Co 6:13>Co1 6:13</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:25
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:25>1 Corinthians 10:25</verse></h3>




(7) Whatsoever is sold in the (u) shambles, [that] eat, asking no question for conscience sake:



(7) An applying of the rule to the present matter: whatever is sold in the market, you may
indifferently buy it as if it were from the Lord's hand, and eat it either at home with the faithful, or
being called home to the unfaithful, that is, in a private banquet. But yet with this exception, unless
any man is present who is weak, whose conscience may be offended by setting meats offered to
idols before them: for then you ought to have a consideration of their weakness.



(u) The flesh that was sacrificed used to be sold in the markets, and the price returned to the priests.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:26
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:26>1 Corinthians 10:26</verse></h3>



For the earth [is] the Lord's, and the (x) fulness thereof.



(x) All those things of which it is full.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:29
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:29>1 Corinthians 10:29</verse></h3>

<page=2956>Conscience, I say, not thine own, but of the other: (8) for why is my liberty judged of another
[man's] conscience?



(8) A reason: for we must take heed that our liberty is not spoken of as evil, and that the benefit of
God which we ought to use with thanksgiving is not changed into impiety. And this is through our
fault, if we choose rather to offend the conscience of the weak, than to yield a little of our liberty in
a matter of no importance, and so give occasion to the weak to judge in such sort of us, and of
Christian liberty. And the apostle takes these things upon his own person, that the Corinthians may
have so much the less occasion to oppose anything against him.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:30
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:30>1 Corinthians 10:30</verse></h3>



For if I by (y) grace be a partaker, why am I evil spoken of for that for which I give thanks?



(y) If I may through God's grace eat this meat or that meat, why should I through my fault cause
that benefit of God to turn to my blame?
#BCV:1 Corinthians 10:31
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 10:31>1 Corinthians 10:31</verse></h3>




(9) Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.



(9) The conclusion: we must order ourselves in such a way that we seek not ourselves, but God's
glory, and so the salvation of as many as we may. In which the apostle does not thrust himself to the
Corinthians (even his own flock) as an example, except so that he calls them back to Christ, to
whom he himself has regard.

<h2>1 Corinthians 11</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:2
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:2>1 Corinthians 11:2</verse></h3>


<page=2957>(1) Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I
delivered [them] to you.



(1) The fifth treatise of this epistle concerning the right ordering of public assemblies, containing
three points, that is of the comely apparel of men and women, of the order of the Lord's supper,
and of the right use of spiritual gifts. But going about to reprehend certain things, he begins
nonetheless with a general praise of them, calling those particular laws of comeliness and honesty,
which belong to the ecclesiastical policy, traditions: which afterward they called cannons.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:3
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:3>1 Corinthians 11:3</verse></h3>




(2) But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman [is]
the man; and the (a) head of Christ [is] God.



(2) He sets down God, in Christ our mediator, as the end and mark not only of doctrine, but also of
ecclesiastical comeliness. Then applying it to the question proposed, touching the comely apparel
both of men and women in public assemblies, he declares that the woman is one degree beneath the
man by the ordinance of God, and that the man is so subject to Christ, that the glory of God ought
to appear in him for the preeminence of the sex.



(a) In that Christ is our mediator.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:4
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:4>1 Corinthians 11:4</verse></h3>




(3) Every (b) man praying or prophesying, having [his] head covered, dishonoureth his head.



(3) By this he gathers that if men do either pray or preach in public assemblies having their heads
covered (which was then a sign of subjection), they robbed themselves of their dignity, against
God's ordinance.



(b) It appears, that this was a political law serving only for the circumstance of the time that Paul
lived in, by this reason, because in these our days for a man to speak bareheaded in an assembly is a
sign of subjection.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:5
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:5>1 Corinthians 11:5</verse></h3>




(4) But every woman that prayeth or prophesieth with [her] head uncovered dishonoureth her head:



(5) for that is even all one as if she were shaven.

<page=2958>(4) And in like manner he concludes that women who show themselves in public and ecclesiastical
assemblies without the sign and token of their subjection, that is to say, uncovered, shame
themselves. (5) The first argument taken from the common sense of man, for so much as nature
teaches women that it is dishonest for them to go abroad bareheaded, seeing that they have given to
them thick and long hair which they do so diligently trim and deck, that they can in no way abide to
have it shaved.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:7
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:7>1 Corinthians 11:7</verse></h3>




(6) For a man indeed ought not to cover [his] head, forasmuch as he is the image and glory of God:
but the woman is the glory of the man.



(6) The taking away of an objection: have not men also hair given to them? "I grant that", says the
apostle, "but there is another matter in it. For man was made to this end and purpose, that the glory
of God should appear in his rule and authority. But the woman was made so that by profession of
her obedience, she might more honour her husband."
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:8
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:8>1 Corinthians 11:8</verse></h3>




(7) For the man is not of the woman; but the woman of the man.



(7) He proves the inequality of the woman by the fact that from the man is the substance of which
woman was first made.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:9
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:9>1 Corinthians 11:9</verse></h3>




(8) Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man.



(8) Secondly, by the fact that the woman was made for man, and not the man for the woman's sake.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:10
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:10>1 Corinthians 11:10</verse></h3>




(9) For this cause ought the woman to have (c) power on [her] head because of the (10) angels.



(9) The conclusion: women must be covered, to show by this external sign their subjection.



(c) A covering which is a token of subjection.



(10) What this means, I do not yet understand.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:11
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:11>1 Corinthians 11:11</verse></h3>




(11) Nevertheless neither is the man without the woman, neither the woman without the man, (d) in
the Lord.

<page=2959>(11) A digression which the apostle uses, lest that which he spoke of the superiority of men, and the
lower degree of women, in consideration of the policy of the Church, should be so taken as though
there were no measure of this inequality. Therefore he teaches that men have in such sort the
preeminence, that God made them not alone, but women also. And woman was so made of man,
that men also are born by the means of women, and this ought to put them in mind to observe the
degree of every sex in such sort, that the marriage relationship may be cherished.



(d) By the Lord.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:13
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:13>1 Corinthians 11:13</verse></h3>




(12) Judge in yourselves: is it comely that a woman pray unto God uncovered?



(12) He urges the argument taken from the common sense of nature.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:15
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:15>1 Corinthians 11:15</verse></h3>



But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for [her] hair is given her for a (e) covering.



(e) To be a covering for her, and such a covering as should procure another.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:16
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:16>1 Corinthians 11:16</verse></h3>




(13) But if any man seem to be contentious, we have no such custom, neither the churches of God.



(13) Against those who are stubbornly contentious we have to oppose this, that the churches of
God are not contentious.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:17
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:17>1 Corinthians 11:17</verse></h3>




(14) Now in this that I declare [unto you] I praise [you] not, that ye come together not for the better,
but for the worse.



(14) He passes now to the next treatise concerning the right administration of the Lord's supper.
And the apostle uses this harsher preface, that the Corinthians might understand that whereas they
generally observed the apostle's commandments, yet they badly neglected them in a matter of
greatest importance.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:18
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:18>1 Corinthians 11:18</verse></h3>




(15) For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you;
and I partly believe it.

<page=2960>(15) To celebrate the Lord's supper correctly, it is required that there is not only consent of doctrine,
but also of affections, so that it is not profaned.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:19
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:19>1 Corinthians 11:19</verse></h3>




(16) For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are (f) approved may be made
manifest among you.



(16) Although schisms and heresies proceed from the devil, and are evil, yet they come not by
chance, nor without cause, and they turn to the profit of the elect.



(f) Whom experience has taught to be of sound religion and godliness.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:20
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:20>1 Corinthians 11:20</verse></h3>



When ye come together therefore into one place, [this] is (g) not to eat the Lord's supper.



(g) This is a usual metaphor by which the apostle flatly denies that which many did not do well.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:21
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:21>1 Corinthians 11:21</verse></h3>



For in eating every one taketh (h) before [other] his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is
drunken.



(h) Eats his food and does not wait until others come.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:22
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:22>1 Corinthians 11:22</verse></h3>




(17) What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame
them that have not? What shall I say to you? shall I praise you in this? I praise [you] not.



(17) The apostle thinks it good to take away the love feasts because of their abuse, although they
had been practised a long time, and with commendation used in churches, and were appointed and
instituted by the apostles.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:23
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:23>1 Corinthians 11:23</verse></h3>




(18) For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the
[same] night in which he was betrayed took bread:



(18) We must take a true form of keeping the Lord's supper, out of the institution of it, the parts of
which are these: touching the pastors, to show forth the Lord's death by preaching his word, to bless
the bread and the wine by calling upon the name of God, and together with prayers to declare the
institution of it, and finally to deliver the bread broken to be eaten, and the cup received to be drunk
<page=2961>with thanksgiving. And touching the flock, that every man examine himself, that is to say, to prove
both his knowledge, and also faith, and repentance: to show forth the Lord's death, that is, in true
faith to yield to his word and institution: and last of all, to take the bread from the minister's hand,
and to eat it and to drink the wine, and give God thanks. This was Paul's and the apostles' manner of
ministering.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:24
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:24>1 Corinthians 11:24</verse></h3>



And when he had given thanks, he brake [it], and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is (i) broken
for you: this do in remembrance of me.



(i) This word "broken" denotes to us the manner of Christ's death, for although his legs were not
broken, as the thieves legs were, yet his body was very severely tormented, and torn, and bruised.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:27
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:27>1 Corinthians 11:27</verse></h3>




(19) Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink [this] cup of the Lord, (k) unworthily, shall
be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord.



(19) Whoever condemns the holy ordinances, that is, uses them incorrectly, are guilty not of the
bread and wine, but of the thing itself, that is, of Christ, and will be grievously punished for it.



(k) Otherwise than how such mysteries should properly be handled.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:28
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:28>1 Corinthians 11:28</verse></h3>




(20) But let (l) a man examine himself, and so let him eat of [that] bread, and drink of [that] cup.



(20) The examination of a man's self, is of necessity required in the supper, and therefore they
ought not to be admitted to it who cannot examine themselves: such as children, furious and angry
men, also such as either have no knowledge of Christ, or not sufficient, although they profess
Christian religion: and others that cannot examine themselves.



(l) This passage overthrows the idea of the faith of merit, or undeveloped faith, which the papists
maintain.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:29
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:29>1 Corinthians 11:29</verse></h3>



For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not (m)
discerning the Lord's body.



(m) He is said to discern the Lord's body that has consideration of the worthiness of it, and
therefore comes to eat of this food with great reverence.

#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:30
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:30>1 Corinthians 11:30</verse></h3>


(21) For this cause many [are] weak and sickly among you, and many sleep.



(21) The profaning of the body and blood of the Lord in his mysteries is harshly punished by him,
and therefore such wrongs ought diligently to be prevented by each one judging and correcting
himself.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:31
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:31>1 Corinthians 11:31</verse></h3>



For if we would (n) judge ourselves, we should not be judged.



(n) Try and examine ourselves, by faith and repentance, separating ourselves from the wicked.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:33
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:33>1 Corinthians 11:33</verse></h3>




(22) Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for another.



(22) The supper of the Lord is a common action of the whole church, and therefore there is no
place for private suppers.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 11:34
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 11:34>1 Corinthians 11:34</verse></h3>




(23) And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation. (24)
And the rest will I set in order when I come.



(23) The supper of the Lord was instituted not to feed the belly, but to feed the soul with the
communion of Christ, and therefore it ought to be separated from common banquets.



(24) Such things as pertain to order, as place, time, form of prayers, and other such like, the apostle
took order for in congregations according to the consideration of times, places, and persons.

<h2>1 Corinthians 12</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:1
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:1>1 Corinthians 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=2963>Now (1) concerning spiritual [gifts], brethren, I would not have you (a) ignorant.



(1) Now he enters into the third part of this treatise touching the right use of spiritual gifts, in which
he gives the Corinthians plainly to understand that they abused them. For they that excelled bragged
ambitiously of them, and so robbed God of the praise of his gifts: and having no consideration of
their brethren, abused them to a vain display, and so robbed the church of the use of those gifts. On
the other side the inferior sort envied the better, and went about to make a departure, so that all the
body was as it were scattered and rent in pieces. So then, going about to remedy these abuses he wills
them first to consider diligently that they have not these gifts of themselves, but from the free grace
and liberality of God, to whose glory they ought to bestow them all.



(a) Ignorant to what purpose these gifts are given to you.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:2
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:2>1 Corinthians 12:2</verse></h3>




(2) Ye know that ye were (b) Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led.



(2) He reproves the same by comparing their former state with that in which they were at this time,
being endued with those excellent gifts.



(b) As touching God's service and the covenant, mere strangers.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:3
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:3>1 Corinthians 12:3</verse></h3>




(3) Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus (c)
accursed: and [that] no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.



(3) The conclusion: know you therefore that you cannot so much as move your lips to honour Christ
at all, except by the grace of the Holy Spirit.



(c) Does curse him, or by any means whatever diminish his glory.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:4
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:4>1 Corinthians 12:4</verse></h3>




(4) Now there are diversities of gifts, but the (d) same Spirit.



(4) In the second place, he lays another foundation, that is, that these gifts are different, as the
functions also are different and their offices different, but that one self same Spirit, Lord, and God
is the giver of all these gifts, and that to one end, that is, for the profit of all.



(d) The Spirit is plainly distinguished from the gifts.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:6
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:6>1 Corinthians 12:6</verse></h3>

<page=2964>And there are diversities of (e) operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.



(e) So Paul calls that inward power which comes from the Holy Spirit, and makes men fit for
wonderful things.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:7
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:7>1 Corinthians 12:7</verse></h3>



But the manifestation of the Spirit is (f) given to every man to (g) profit withal.



(f) The Holy Spirit opens and shows himself freely in the giving of these gifts.



(g) To the use and benefit of the church.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:8
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:8>1 Corinthians 12:8</verse></h3>




(5) For to one is given by the Spirit the word of (h) wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by
the same Spirit;



(5) He declares this manifold diversity, and reckons up the principal gifts, beating that into their
heads which he said before, that is, that all these things proceeded from one and the very same Spirit.



(h) Wisdom is a most excellent gift, and very needed, not only for those who teach, but also for
those that exhort and comfort. And this thing is proper to the pastor's office, as the word of
knowledge agrees to the teachers.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:10
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:10>1 Corinthians 12:10</verse></h3>



To another the (i) working of miracles; to another (k) prophecy; to another (l) discerning of spirits;
to another [divers] kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:



(i) By "working" he means those great workings of God's mighty power, which pass and excel
among his miracles, as the delivery of his people by the hand of Moses: that which he did by Elijah
against the priests of Baal, in sending down fire from heaven to consume his sacrifice: and that
which he did by Peter, in the matter of Ananias and Sapphira.



(k) Foretelling of things to come.



(l) By which false prophets are know from true, in which Peter surpassed Philip in exposing Simon
Magus; (<bcv=Acts 8:20>Act 8:20</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:11
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:11>1 Corinthians 12:11</verse></h3>



But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally (6) as he will.

<page=2965>(6) He adds moreover somewhat else, that is, that although these gifts are unequal, yet they are most
wisely divided, because the will of the Spirit of God is the rule of this distribution.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:12
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:12>1 Corinthians 12:12</verse></h3>




(7) For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being
many, are one body: (8) so also [is] (m) Christ.



(7) He sets forth his former saying by a similitude taken from the body: this, he says, is manifestly
seen in the body, whose members are different, but yet so joined together, that they make but one
body. (8) The applying of the similitude. So must we also think, he says, of the mystical body of
Christ: for all we who believe, whether we are Jews or Gentiles, are by one person by the same
baptism, joined together with our head, that by that means, there may be framed one body compact
of many members. And we have drunk one self same spirit, that is to say, a spiritual feeling,
perseverance and motion common to us all out of one cup.



(m) Christ joined together with his Church.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:13
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:13>1 Corinthians 12:13</verse></h3>



For by one Spirit are we all baptized into (n) one body, whether [we be] Jews or Gentiles, whether
[we be] bond or free; and have been all made to (o) drink into one Spirit.



(n) To become one body with Christ.



(o) By one quickening drink of the Lord's blood, we are made partakers of his Spirit alone.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:14
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:14>1 Corinthians 12:14</verse></h3>




(9) For the body is not one member, but many.



(9) He amplifies that which followed of the similitude, as if he should say, "The unity of the body is
not prevented by this diversity of members, and furthermore it could not be a body if it did not
consist of many members, and those being different."
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:15
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:15>1 Corinthians 12:15</verse></h3>




(10) If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the
body?



(10) Now he builds his doctrine upon the foundations which he has laid: and first of all he continues
in his purposed similitude, and afterward he goes to the matter plainly and simply. And first of all he
speaks unto those who would have separated themselves from those whom they envied, because
they had not such excellent gifts as they. Now this is, he says, as if the foot should say it were not of
<page=2966>the body, because it is not the hand, or the ear, because it is not the eye. Therefore all parts ought
rather to defend the unity of the body, being coupled together to serve one another.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:17
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:17>1 Corinthians 12:17</verse></h3>




(11) If the whole body [were] an eye, where [were] the hearing? If the whole [were] hearing, where
[were] the smelling?



(11) Again speaking to them, he shows them that if that should come to pass which they desire, that
is, that all should be equal one to another, there would follow a destruction of the whole body,
indeed and of themselves. For it could not be a body unless it were made of many members knit
together, and different from one another. And that no man might find fault with this division as
unequal, he adds that God himself has joined all these together. Therefore all must remain joined
together, that the body may remain in safety.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:21
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:21>1 Corinthians 12:21</verse></h3>




(12) And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I
have no need of you.



(12) Now on the other hand, he speaks to those who were endued with more excellent gifts,
exhorting them not to despise the inferiors as unprofitable, and as though they served to no use. For
God, he says, has in such sort tempered this inequality, that the more excellent and beautiful
members can in no wise lack the more abject and such as we are ashamed of, and that they should
have more care to see to them and to cover them: that by this means the necessity which is on both
parts, might keep the whole body in peace and harmony. And that even though if each part is
considered apart, they are of different degrees and conditions, yet because they are joined together,
they have a community both in prosperity and affliction.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:22
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:22>1 Corinthians 12:22</verse></h3>



Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be (p) more feeble, are necessary:



(p) Of the smallest and vilest offices, and therefore mentioned last among the rest.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:23
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:23>1 Corinthians 12:23</verse></h3>



And those [members] of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow
more abundant (q) honour; and our uncomely [parts] have more abundant comeliness.



(q) We more carefully cover them.

#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:25
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:25>1 Corinthians 12:25</verse></h3>


That there should be no schism in the body; but [that] the members should have the same (r) care
one for another.



(r) Should bestow their operations and offices to the profit and preservation of the whole body.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:26
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:26>1 Corinthians 12:26</verse></h3>




(13) And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured,
all the members rejoice with it.



(13) Now he applies this same doctrine to the Corinthians without any allegory, warning them that
as there are different functions and different gifts, it is their duty not to offend one another, either by
envy or ambition. Instead, in being joined together in love and charity with one another, every one
of them should bestow to the profit of all that which he has received, according as his ministry
requires.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:27
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:27>1 Corinthians 12:27</verse></h3>



Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in (s) particular.



(s) For all churches, wherever they are dispersed through the whole world, are different members of
one body.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:28
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:28>1 Corinthians 12:28</verse></h3>



And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that
miracles, then gifts of healings, (t) helps, (u) governments, diversities of tongues.



(t) The offices of deacons.



(u) He sets forth the order of elders, who were the maintainers of the church's discipline.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 12:31
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 12:31>1 Corinthians 12:31</verse></h3>




(14) But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.



(14) He teaches those who are ambitious and envious, a certain holy ambition and envy. That is, if
they give themselves to the best gifts, and such as are most profitable to the church, and so if they
contend to excel one another in love, which far surpasses all other gifts.

<h2>1 Corinthians 13</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 13:8
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 13:8>1 Corinthians 13:8</verse></h3>


<page=2968>(3) Charity never faileth: but whether [there be] prophecies, they shall fail; whether [there be]
tongues, they shall cease; whether [there be] (g) knowledge, it shall vanish away.



(3) Again he commends the excellency of charity, in that it will never be abolished in the saints,
whereas the other gifts which are necessary for the building up of the church, so long as we live here,
will have no place in the world to come.



(g) The getting of knowledge by prophesying.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 13:9
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 13:9>1 Corinthians 13:9</verse></h3>




(4) For we know in (h) part, and we prophesy in part.



(4) The reason: because we are now in the state that we have need to learn daily, and therefore we
have need of those helps, that is, of the gift of tongues, and knowledge, and also of those that teach
by them. But to what purpose serve they then, when we have obtained and gotten the full
knowledge of God, which serve now but for those who are imperfect and go by degrees to
perfection?



(h) We learn imperfectly.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 13:11
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 13:11>1 Corinthians 13:11</verse></h3>




(5) When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I
became a man, I put away childish things.



(5) He sets forth that which he said by an excellent similitude, comparing this life to our infancy, or
childhood, in which we mutter and stammer rather than speak, and think and understand childish
things, and therefore have need of such things as may form and frame our tongue and mind. But
when we become men, to what purpose should we desire that stammering, those childish toys, and
such like things, by which we are formed in our childhood by little and little?
#BCV:1 Corinthians 13:12
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 13:12>1 Corinthians 13:12</verse></h3>




(6) For (i) now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then
shall I know even as also I am known.



(6) The applying of the similitude of our childhood to this present life, in which we darkly behold
heavenly things, according to the small measure of light which is given to us, through the
understanding of tongues, and hearing the teachers and ministers of the Church. And our man's age
<page=2969>and strength is compared to that heavenly and eternal life, in which when we behold God himself
present, and are enlightened with his full and perfect light, to what purpose would we desire the
voice of man, and those worldly things which are most imperfect? But yet then all the saints will be
knit both with God, and between themselves with most fervent love. And therefore charity will not
be abolished, but perfected, although it will not be shown forth and entertained by such manner of
duties as belong only and especially to the infirmity of this life.



(i) All this must be understood by comparison.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 13:13
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 13:13>1 Corinthians 13:13</verse></h3>




(7) And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these [is] charity.



(7) The conclusion: as if the apostle should say, "Such therefore will be our condition then: but now
we have three things, and they remain sure if we are Christ's, without which, true religion cannot
consist, that is, faith, hope, and charity. And among these, charity is the chiefest because it ceases not
in the life to come as the rest do, but is perfected and accomplished. For seeing that faith and hope
tend to things which are promised and are to come, when we have presently gotten them, to what
purpose would we have faith and hope? But yet there at length we will truly and perfectly love both
God and one another."
#BCV:1 Corinthians 13:1
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 13:1>1 Corinthians 13:1</verse></h3>



Though (1) I speak with the tongues of men and of (a) angels, and have not charity, I am become
[as] sounding brass, or a (b) tinkling cymbal.



(1) He reasons first of charity, the excellency of which he first shows by this, that without it, all
other gifts are as nothing before God. And this he proves partly by an induction, and partly also by
an argument taken of the end, for what reason those gifts are given. For, to what purpose are those
gifts but to God's glory, and the profit of the Church as is before proved? So that those gifts,
without charity, have no right use.



(a) A very earnest amplifying of the matter, as if he said, "If there were any tongues of angels, and I
had them, and did not use them to the benefit of my neighbour, it would be nothing else except a
vain and prattling type of babbling."



(b) That gives a rude and uncertain sound.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 13:2
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 13:2>1 Corinthians 13:2</verse></h3>



And though I have [the gift of] prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and
though I have all (c) faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.

<page=2970>(c) By "faith" he means the gift of doing miracles, and not that faith which justifies, which cannot be
void of charity as the other may.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 13:4
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 13:4>1 Corinthians 13:4</verse></h3>




(2) Charity (d) suffereth long, [and] is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not
puffed up,



(2) He describes the force and nature of charity, partly by a comparison of opposites, and partly by
the effects of charity itself. And by this the Corinthians may understand both how profitable it is in
the church, and how necessary: and also how far they are from it, and therefore how vainly and
without cause they are proud.



(d) Literally, "defers wrath".
#BCV:1 Corinthians 13:5
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 13:5>1 Corinthians 13:5</verse></h3>



Doth (e) not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil;



(e) It is not insolent, or reproachful.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 13:6
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 13:6>1 Corinthians 13:6</verse></h3>



Rejoiceth not in iniquity, but (f) rejoiceth in the truth;



(f) Rejoices at righteousness in the righteous. For by "truth" the Hebrews mean "righteousness".

<h2>1 Corinthians 14</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:1
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:1>1 Corinthians 14:1</verse></h3>



Follow (1) after charity, and desire spiritual [gifts], but rather that ye may (a) prophesy.



(1) He infers now of what he spoke before: therefore seeing charity is the chiefest of all, before all
things set it before you as chief and principal. And so esteem those things as most excellent which
profit the greater part of men (such as prophecy, that is to say, the gift of teaching and applying the
doctrine: which was condemned in respect of other gifts, although it is the chiefest and most
necessary for the Church) and not those who for a show seem to be marvellous, as the gifts of
tongues. This was when a man was suddenly endowed with the knowledge of many tongues, which
made men greatly amazed and yet of itself was not greatly of any use, unless there was an
interpreter.



(a) What prophecy is he shows in the third verse.

#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:2
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:2>1 Corinthians 14:2</verse></h3>


(2) For he that speaketh in an [unknown] (b) tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no
man understandeth [him]; howbeit in the (c) spirit he speaketh mysteries.



(2) He reprehends their perverse judgment concerning the gift of tongues. For why was it given?
The answer: so that the mysteries of God might be the better known to a greater number. By this it
is evident that prophecy, which the gift of tongues ought to serve, is better than this: and therefore
the Corinthians judged incorrectly, in that they made more account of the gift of tongues than of
prophesying: because no doubt the gift of tongues was a thing more to be bragged of. And
hereupon followed another abuse of the gift of tongues, in that the Corinthians used tongues in the
congregation without an interpreter. And although this thing might be done to some profit of him
that spoke them, yet he corrupted the right use of that gift because there came by it no profit to the
hearers. And common assemblies were instituted and appointed not for any private man's
commodity, but for the profit of the whole company.



(b) A strange language, which no man can understand without an interpreter.



(c) By that inspiration which he has received of the Spirit, which nonetheless he abuses, when he
speaks mysteries which none of the company can understand.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:3
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:3>1 Corinthians 14:3</verse></h3>



But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men [to] (d) edification, and exhortation, and comfort.



(d) Which may further men in the study of godliness.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:4
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:4>1 Corinthians 14:4</verse></h3>



He that speaketh in an [unknown] tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the (e)
church.



(e) The company.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:7
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:7>1 Corinthians 14:7</verse></h3>




(3) And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in
the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped?



(3) He sets forth that which he said by a similitude, which he borrows and takes from instruments
of music, which although they speak not perfectly, yet they are distinguished by their sounds, that
they may be the better used.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:9
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:9>1 Corinthians 14:9</verse></h3>

<page=2972>So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words (f) easy to be understood, how shall it be known
what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air.



(f) That fitly utter the matter itself.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:10
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:10>1 Corinthians 14:10</verse></h3>




(4) There are, it may be, so many kinds of voices in the world, and none of them [is] without
signification.



(4) He proves that interpretation is necessarily to be joined with the gift of tongues, by the manifold
variety of languages, insomuch that if one speak to another without an interpreter, it is as if he did
not speak.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:11
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:11>1 Corinthians 14:11</verse></h3>



Therefore if I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a barbarian, and
he that (g) speaketh [shall be] a barbarian unto me.



(g) As the papists in all their sermons, and they that ambitiously pour out some Hebrew or Greek
words in the pulpit before the unlearned people, by this to get themselves a name of vain learning.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:12
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:12>1 Corinthians 14:12</verse></h3>




(5) Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual [gifts], seek that ye may excel to the edifying
of the church.



(5) The conclusion: if they will excel in those spiritual gifts, as it is proper, they must seek the profit
of the church. And therefore they must not use the gift of tongues, unless there is an interpreter to
expound the strange and unknown tongue, whether it is himself that speaks, or another interpreter.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:13
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:13>1 Corinthians 14:13</verse></h3>



Wherefore let him that speaketh in an [unknown] tongue (h) pray that he may interpret.



(h) Pray for the gift of interpretation.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:14
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:14>1 Corinthians 14:14</verse></h3>




(6) For (i) if I pray in an [unknown] tongue, my (k) spirit prayeth, but my understanding is (l)
unfruitful.

<page=2973>(6) A reason: because it is not sufficient for us to speak so in the congregation that we ourselves
worship God in spirit (that is according to the gift which we have received), but we must also be
understood of the company, lest that is unprofitable to others which we have spoken.



(i) If I pray, when the church is assembled together, in a strange tongue.



(k) The gift and inspiration which the spirit gives me does its part, but only to myself.



(l) No fruit comes to the church by my prayers.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:15
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:15>1 Corinthians 14:15</verse></h3>



What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the (m) understanding also: I will sing
with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.



(m) So that I may be understood by others, and may instruct others.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:16
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:16>1 Corinthians 14:16</verse></h3>




(7) Else when thou shalt bless with the (n) spirit, how shall he that (o) occupieth the room of the
unlearned say (p) Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?



(7) Another reason: seeing that the whole congregation must agree with him that speaks, and also
witness this agreement, how will they give their assent or agreement who know not what is spoken?



(n) Alone, without any consideration of the hearers.



(o) He that sits as a private man.



(p) So then one uttered the prayers, and all the company answered "amen".
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:18
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:18>1 Corinthians 14:18</verse></h3>




(8) I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:



(8) He sets himself as an example, both that they may be ashamed of their foolish ambition, and
also that he may avoid all suspicion of envy.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:19
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:19>1 Corinthians 14:19</verse></h3>



Yet in the church I had rather speak (q) five words with my understanding, that [by my voice] I
might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an [unknown] tongue.



(q) A very few words.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:20
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:20>1 Corinthians 14:20</verse></h3>


<page=2974>(9) Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in
understanding be men.



(9) Now he reproves those freely for their childish folly, who do not see how this gift of tongues
which was given to the profit of the Church, is turned by their ambition into an instrument of
cursing, seeing that this same cursing is also contained among the punishments with which God
punished the stubbornness of his people, that he dispersed them amongst strangers whose language
they did not understand.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:21
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:21>1 Corinthians 14:21</verse></h3>



In the (r) law it is written, With [men of] other tongues and other lips will I speak unto this people;
and yet for all that will they not hear me, saith the Lord.



(r) By the "law" he understands the entire scripture.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:22
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:22>1 Corinthians 14:22</verse></h3>




(10) Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but
prophesying [serveth] not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.



(10) The conclusion: therefore the gift of tongues serves to punish the unfaithful and unbelievers,
unless it is referred to prophecy (that is to say, to the interpretation of scripture) and that what is
spoken is by the means of prophecy is understood by the hearers.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:23
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:23>1 Corinthians 14:23</verse></h3>




(11) If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and
there come in [those that are] (s) unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad?



(11) Another argument: the gift of tongues without prophecy is not only unprofitable to the faithful,
but also hurts very much, both the faithful as well as the unfaithful, who should be won in the public
assemblies. For by this means it comes to pass that the faithful seem to others to be mad, much less
can the unfaithful be instructed by it.



(s) See (<bcv=Acts 4:13>Act 4:13</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:26
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:26>1 Corinthians 14:26</verse></h3>




(12) How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, every one of you hath a psalm, hath a
doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying.



(12) The conclusion: the edifying of the congregation is a rule and measure of the right use of all
spiritual gifts.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:27
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:27>1 Corinthians 14:27</verse></h3>


<page=2975>(13) If any man speak in an [unknown] tongue, [let it be] by two, or at the most [by] three, and [that]
by course; and let one interpret.



(13) The manner how to use the gift of tongues. It may be lawful for one or two, or at the most for
three, to use the gift of tongues, one after another in an assembly, so that there is someone to
expound their utterances. But if there are none to expound, let him that has the gift speak to
himself alone.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:29
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:29>1 Corinthians 14:29</verse></h3>




(14) Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.



(14) The manner of prophesying: let two or three propound, and let the others judge of that which
is propounded, whether it is agreeable to the word of God or not. If in this examination the Lord
indicates that nothing was wrong, let them give him leave to speak. Let every man be admitted to
prophesy, severally and in his order, so far forth as it is required for the edifying of the church. Let
them be content to be subject to each other's judgment.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:32
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:32>1 Corinthians 14:32</verse></h3>



And the (t) spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets.



(t) The doctrine which the prophets bring, who are inspired with God's Spirit.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:34
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:34>1 Corinthians 14:34</verse></h3>




(15) Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but
[they are commanded] to be under obedience, as also saith the law.



(15) Women are commanded to be silent in public assemblies, and they are commanded to ask of
their husbands at home.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:36
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:36>1 Corinthians 14:36</verse></h3>




(16) What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only?



(16) A general conclusion of the treatise of the right use of spiritual gifts in assemblies. And this is
with a sharp reprehension, lest the Corinthians might seem to themselves to be the only ones who
are wise.

#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:37
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:37>1 Corinthians 14:37</verse></h3>


If any man think himself to be a prophet, or (u) spiritual, let him acknowledge that the things that I
write unto you are the commandments of the Lord.



(u) Skilful in knowing and judging spiritual things.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:38
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:38>1 Corinthians 14:38</verse></h3>




(17) But if any man be ignorant, let him be ignorant.



(17) The church ought not to care for those who are stubbornly ignorant, and will not abide to be
taught, but to go forward nonetheless in those things which are right.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 14:39
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 14:39>1 Corinthians 14:39</verse></h3>




(18) Wherefore, brethren, covet to prophesy, and forbid not to speak with tongues.



(18) Prophecy ought certainly to be retained and kept in congregations, and the gift of tongues is
not to be forbidden, but all things must be done orderly.

<h2>1 Corinthians 15</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:1
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:1>1 Corinthians 15:1</verse></h3>

<page=2977>Moreover, (1) brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have
received, and wherein ye (a) stand;



(1) The sixth treatise of this epistle, concerning the resurrection: and he uses a transition, or passing
over from one matter to another, showing first that he brings no new thing, to the end that the
Corinthians might understand that they had begun to swerve from the right course. And next that he
does not go about to entreat of a trifling matter, but of another chief point of the Gospel, which if
it is taken away, their faith will necessarily come to nothing. And so at the length he begins this
treatise at Christ's resurrection, which is the ground and foundation of ours, and confirms it first by
the testimony of the scriptures and by the witness of the apostles, and of more than five hundred
brethren, and last of all by his own.



(a) In the profession of which you still continue.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:2
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:2>1 Corinthians 15:2</verse></h3>



By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, (b) unless ye have
believed in vain.



(b) Which is very absurd, and cannot be, for they that believe must reap the fruit of faith.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:5
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:5>1 Corinthians 15:5</verse></h3>



And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the (c) twelve:



(c) Of those twelve picked and chosen apostles, who were commonly called twelve, though Judas
was put out of the number.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:6
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:6>1 Corinthians 15:6</verse></h3>



After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at (d) once; of whom the greater part remain
unto this present, but some are fallen asleep.



(d) Not at several different times, but together and at one instant.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:8
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:8>1 Corinthians 15:8</verse></h3>




(2) And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.

<page=2978>(2) He maintains along the way the authority of his apostleship, which was required to be in good
credit among the Corinthians, that this epistle might be of force and weight among them. In the
mean time he compares himself, under divine inspiration, in such a way with certain others, that he
makes himself inferior to them all.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:12
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:12>1 Corinthians 15:12</verse></h3>




(3) Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no
resurrection of the dead?



(3) The first argument to prove that there is a resurrection from the dead: Christ is risen again,
therefore the dead will rise again.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:13
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:13>1 Corinthians 15:13</verse></h3>




(4) But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen:



(4) The second by an absurdity: if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ is not risen again.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:14
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:14>1 Corinthians 15:14</verse></h3>




(5) And if Christ be not risen, then [is] our preaching vain, and your faith [is] also vain.



(5) The proof of that absurdity, by other absurdities: if Christ is not risen again, the preaching of
the Gospel is in vain, and the credit that you gave to it is vain, and we are liars.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:16
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:16>1 Corinthians 15:16</verse></h3>




(6) For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised:



(6) He repeats the same argument taken from an absurdity, purposing to show how faith is in vain if
the resurrection of Christ is taken away.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:17
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:17>1 Corinthians 15:17</verse></h3>



And if Christ be not raised, your faith [is] vain; (7) ye are (e) yet in your sins.



(7) First, seeing death is the punishment of sin, in vain should we believe that our sins were forgiven
us, if they remain: but they do remain, if Christ did not rise from death.



(e) They are yet in their sins who are not sanctified, nor have obtained remission of their sins.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:18
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:18>1 Corinthians 15:18</verse></h3>


<page=2979>(8) Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished.



(8) Secondly, unless it is certain that Christ rose again, all those who died in Christ have perished. So
then, what profit comes of faith?
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:19
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:19>1 Corinthians 15:19</verse></h3>




(9) If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.



(9) The third argument which is also taken from an absurdity: for unless there is another life, in
which those who trust and believe in Christ will be blessed, they are the most miserable of all
creatures, because in this life they would be the most miserable.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:20
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:20>1 Corinthians 15:20</verse></h3>




(10) But now is Christ risen from the dead, (11) [and] become the (f) firstfruits of them that slept.



(10) A conclusion of the former argument: therefore Christ is risen again.



(11) He puts the last conclusion for the first proposition of the argument that follows. Christ is risen
again: therefore will we the faithful (for of them he speaks) rise again. Then follows the first reason
of this conclusion: for Christ is set forth to us to be considered of, not as a private man apart and by
himself, but as the firstfruits: and he takes that which was known to all men, that is, that the whole
heap is sanctified in the firstfruits.



(f) He alludes to the firstfruits of grain, the offering of which sanctified the rest of the fruits.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:21
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:21>1 Corinthians 15:21</verse></h3>




(12) For since by man [came] death, by man [came] also the resurrection of the dead.



(12) Another confirmation of the same conclusion: for Christ is to be considered as opposite to
Adam, that as from one man Adam, sin came over all, so from one man Christ, life comes to all.
That is to say, that all the faithful, who die because by nature they were born of Adam, so because in
Christ they are made the children of God by grace, they are made alive and restored to life by him.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:22
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:22>1 Corinthians 15:22</verse></h3>



For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be (g) made alive.



(g) Will rise by the power of Christ.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:23
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:23>1 Corinthians 15:23</verse></h3>


<page=2980>(13) But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at his
coming.



(13) He does two things together: for he shows that the resurrection is in such sort common to
Christ with all his members, that nonetheless he far surpasses them, both in time (for he was the
first that rose again from the dead) and also in honour, because from him and in him is all our life
and glory. Then by this occasion he passes to the next argument.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:24
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:24>1 Corinthians 15:24</verse></h3>




(14) Then [cometh] the (h) end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the
Father; when he shall have put down (i) all rule and all authority and power.



(14) The fourth argument with which also he confirms the other, has a most sure ground, that is,
because God must reign. And this is the manner of his reign, that the Father will be shown to be
King in his Son who was made man, to whom all things are made subject (the promiser being the
only exception) to the end that the Father may afterward triumph in his Son the conqueror. And he
makes two parts of this reign and dominion of the Son in which the Father's glory consists: that is
first, the overcoming of his enemies, in which some must be deprived of all power, as Satan and all
the wicked, be they ever so proud and mighty, and others must be utterly abolished, as death. And
second, a plain and full delivery of the godly from all enemies, that by this means God may fully set
forth the body of the Church cleaving fast to their head Christ, his kingdom and glory, as a King
among his subjects. Moreover he puts the first degree of his kingdom in the resurrection of the Son,
who is the head: and the perfection, in the full conjunction of the members with the head, which
will be in the latter day. Now all these tend to this purpose, to show that unless the dead do rise
again, neither the Father can be King above all, neither Christ the Lord of all. For neither should the
power of Satan and death be overcome, nor the glory of God be full in his Son, nor his Son in his
members.



(h) The conclusion and finishing of all things.



(i) All his enemies who will be robbed of all the power that they have.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:25
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:25>1 Corinthians 15:25</verse></h3>



For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies (k) under his feet.



(k) Christ is considered here as he appeared in the form of a servant, in which respect he rules the
Church as head, and that because this power was given to him from his Father.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:26
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:26>1 Corinthians 15:26</verse></h3>



The (l) last enemy [that] shall be destroyed [is] death.

<page=2981>(l) The conclusion of the argument, which is taken from the whole to the part: for if all his enemies
will be put under his feet, then it will necessarily be that death also will be subdued under him.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:28
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:28>1 Corinthians 15:28</verse></h3>



And when all things shall be subdued unto him, (m) then shall the Son also himself be subject unto
him that put all things under him, that (n) God may be all in all.



(m) Not because the Son was not subject to his Father before, but because his body, that is to say,
the Church which is here in distress, and not yet wholly partaker of his glory, is not yet fully perfect:
and also because the bodies of the saints which are in the graves, will not be glorified until the
resurrection. But Christ as he is God, has us subject to him as his Father has, but as he is Priest, he is
subject to his Father together with us. Augustine, book 1, chap. 8, of the trinity.



(n) By this high type of speech is set forth an incomprehensible glory which flows from God, and
will fill all of us, as we are joined together with our head, but yet in such a way that our head will
always preserve his preeminence.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:29
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:29>1 Corinthians 15:29</verse></h3>




(15) Else what shall they do which are baptized (o) for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? why are
they then baptized for the dead?



(15) The fifth argument taken of the end of baptism, that is, because those who are baptized, are
baptized for dead: that is to say, that they may have a remedy against death, because baptism is a
token of regeneration.



(o) They that are baptized to this end and purpose, that death may be put out in them, or to rise
again from the dead, of which baptism is a seal.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:30
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:30>1 Corinthians 15:30</verse></h3>




(16) And why stand we in jeopardy every hour?



(16) The sixth argument: unless there is a resurrection of the dead, why should the apostles so daily
cast themselves into danger of so many deaths?
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:31
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:31>1 Corinthians 15:31</verse></h3>



I protest by your (p) rejoicing which I have in Christ Jesus our Lord, I die daily.



(p) As though he said, "I die daily, as all the miseries I suffer can well witness, which I may truly
boast of, that I have suffered among you."

#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:32
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:32>1 Corinthians 15:32</verse></h3>


(17) If (q) after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if
the dead rise not? (18) let us (r) eat and drink; for to morrow we die.



(17) The taking away of an objection: but you, Paul, were ambitious, as men commonly and are
accustomed to be, when you fought with beasts at Ephesus. That is very likely, says Paul: for what
could that profit me, were it not for the glory of eternal life which I hope for?



(q) Not upon any godly motion, nor casting my eyes upon God, but carried away with vain glory, or
a certain headiness.



(18) The seventh argument which depends upon the last: if there is no resurrection of the dead, why
do we give ourselves to anything else, except for eating and drinking?



(r) These are sayings of the Epicureans.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:33
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:33>1 Corinthians 15:33</verse></h3>




(19) Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners.



(19) The conclusion with a sharp exhortation, that they take heed of the wicked company of certain
ones. And from this he shows where this evil sprang from: warning them to be wise with sobriety to
righteousness.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:35
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:35>1 Corinthians 15:35</verse></h3>




(20) But some [man] will say, How are the dead raised up? and with what body do they come?



(20) Now that he has proved the resurrection, he demonstrates their doltishness, in that they
scoffingly demanded how it could be that the dead could rise again: and if they did rise again, they
asked mockingly, what manner of bodies they should have. Therefore he sends these fellows, who
seemed to themselves to be marvellously wise and intelligent, to be instructed of poor rude farmers.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:36
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:36>1 Corinthians 15:36</verse></h3>




(21) [Thou] fool, that which thou sowest is not quickened, except it die:



(21) You might have learned either of these, Paul says, by daily experience: for seeds are sown, and
rot, and yet nonetheless they are far from perishing, but rather they grow up far more beautiful. And
whereas they are sown naked and dry, they spring up green from death by the power of God: and
does it seem incredible to you that our bodies should rise from corruption, and that endued with a
far more excellent quality?
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:38
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:38>1 Corinthians 15:38</verse></h3>


<page=2983>(22) But God giveth it a body as it hath pleased him, and to every seed his own body.



(22) We see a diversity both in one and the self same thing which has now one form and then
another, and yet keeps its own type: as it is evident in a grain which is sown bare, but springs up far
after another sort: and also in different types of one self same sort, as among beasts: and also
among things of different sorts, as the heavenly bodies and the earthly bodies; which also differ very
much one from another. Therefore there is no reason why we should reject either the resurrection
of the bodies, or the changing of them into a better state, as a thing impossible, or strange.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:42
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:42>1 Corinthians 15:42</verse></h3>




(23) So also [is] the resurrection of the dead. It is (s) sown in corruption; it is raised in incorruption:



(23) He makes three manner of qualities of the bodies being raised: first, incorruption, that is,
because they will be sound and altogether of a nature that can not be corrupt. Second, glory,
because they will be adorned with beauty and honour. Third, power, because they will continue
everlasting, without food, drink, and all other helps, without which this frail life cannot keep itself
from corruption.



(s) Is buried, and man is hid as seed in the ground.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:43
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:43>1 Corinthians 15:43</verse></h3>



It is sown in (t) dishonour; it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness; it is raised in (u) power:



(t) Void of honour, void of glory and beauty.



(u) Freed from the former weakness, in which it is subject to such alteration and change, that it
cannot maintain itself without food and drink and such other like helps.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:44
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:44>1 Corinthians 15:44</verse></h3>




(24) It is sown a natural body; it is raised a spiritual body. There is a natural body, and there is a
spiritual body.



(24) He shows perfectly in one word this change of the quality of the body by the resurrection,
when he says that a natural body will become a spiritual body: which two qualities being completely
different the one from the other he straightway expounds, and sets forth diligently.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:45
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:45>1 Corinthians 15:45</verse></h3>




(25) And so it is written, The (x) first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam [was made] a



(y) quickening spirit.

<page=2984>(25) That is called a natural body which is made alive and maintained by a living soul only in the
manner that Adam was, of whom we are all born naturally. And that is said to be a spiritual body,
which together with the soul is made alive with a far more excellent power, that is, with the Spirit of
God, who descends from Christ the second Adam to us.



(x) Adam is called the first man, because he is the root as it were from which we spring. And Christ
is the latter man, because he is the beginning of all those that are spiritual, and in him we are all
included.



(y) Christ is called a Spirit, by reason of that most excellent nature, that is to say, God who dwells in
him bodily, as Adam is called a living soul, by reason of the soul which is the best part in him.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:46
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:46>1 Corinthians 15:46</verse></h3>




(26) Howbeit that [was] not first which is spiritual, but that which is natural; and afterward that
which is spiritual.



(26) Secondly, he wills the order of this twofold state or quality to be observed, that the natural was
first, Adam being created of the clay of the earth. And the spiritual follows and came upon it, that is,
when the Lord being sent from heaven, endued our flesh, which was prepared and made fit for him,
with the fulness of the Godhead.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:47
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:47>1 Corinthians 15:47</verse></h3>



The first man [is] of the earth, (z) earthy: the second man [is] the Lord from (a) heaven.



(z) Wallowing in dirt, and wholly given to an earthly nature.



(a) As Adam was the first man, Christ is the second man; and these two are spoken of, as if they
were the only two men in the world; because as the former was the head and representative of all his
natural posterity, so the latter is the head and representative of all the spiritual offspring: and that he
is "the Lord from heaven"; in distinction from the first man. (Ed.)
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:48
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:48>1 Corinthians 15:48</verse></h3>




(27) As [is] the earthy, such [are] they also that are earthy: and as [is] the heavenly, such [are] they also
that are heavenly.



(27) He applies both the earthly naturalness of Adam (if I may so say) to our bodies, so long as they
are naturally conversant upon earth, that is, in this life, and in the grave. And also the spirituality of
Christ to our same bodies, after they are risen again: and he says that the former goes before, and
that this latter will follow.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:49
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:49>1 Corinthians 15:49</verse></h3>

<page=2985>And as we have borne the (b) image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly.



(b) Not a vain and false image, but such a one as indeed had the truth with it.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:50
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:50>1 Corinthians 15:50</verse></h3>




(28) Now this I say, brethren, that (c) flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither
doth corruption inherit incorruption.



(28) The conclusion: we cannot be partakers of the glory of God unless we put off all that gross
and filthy nature of our bodies subject to corruption, that the same body may be adorned with
incorruptible glory.



(c) Flesh and blood are taken here for a living body, which cannot attain to incorruption, unless it
puts off corruption.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:51
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:51>1 Corinthians 15:51</verse></h3>




(29) Behold, I shew you a (d) mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,



(29) He goes further, declaring that it will come to pass that those who will be found alive in the
latter day will not descend into that corruption of the grave, but will be renewed with a sudden
change, which change is very necessary. And he further states that the certain enjoying of the benefit
and victory of Christ, is deferred to that latter time.



(d) A thing that has been hid, and never known before now, and therefore worthy that you give good
care to it.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:52
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:52>1 Corinthians 15:52</verse></h3>



In (e) a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the
dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.



(e) He shows that the time will be very short.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 15:58
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 15:58>1 Corinthians 15:58</verse></h3>




(30) Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of
the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the (f) Lord.



(30) An exhortation taken from the profit that ensues, that seeing they understand that the glory of
the other life is laid up for faithful workmen, they continue and stand fast in the truth of the
doctrine of the resurrection of the dead.



(f) Through the Lord's help and goodness working in us.

<h2>1 Corinthians 16</h2>

#BCV:1 Corinthians 16:1
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 16:1>1 Corinthians 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=2986>Now concerning (1) the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia,
even so do ye.



(1) Collections in ancient times were made by the appointment of the apostle appointment to be the
first day of the week, on which day the manner was then to assemble themselves.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 16:2
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 16:2>1 Corinthians 16:2</verse></h3>



Upon the (a) first [day] of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as [God] hath (b)
prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come.



(a) Which in times past was called Sunday, but now is called the Lord's day.



(b) That every man bestow according to the ability that God has blessed him with.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 16:3
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 16:3>1 Corinthians 16:3</verse></h3>



And when I come, whomsoever ye shall approve by [your] (c) letters, them will I send to bring your
liberality unto Jerusalem.



(c) Which you will give to them to carry.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 16:4
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 16:4>1 Corinthians 16:4</verse></h3>




(2) And if it be meet that I go also, they shall go with me.



(2) The rest of the epistle is spent in writing of familiar matters, yet so that all things are referred to
his purposed mark, that is to say, to the glory of God, and the edifying of the Corinthians.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 16:9
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 16:9>1 Corinthians 16:9</verse></h3>



For a great door and (d) effectual is opened unto me, and [there are] many adversaries.



(d) Very fit and convenient to do great things by.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 16:10
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 16:10>1 Corinthians 16:10</verse></h3>

<page=2987>Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be with you (e) without fear: for he worketh the work of
the Lord, as I also [do].



(e) Without any just occasion of fear.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 16:11
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 16:11>1 Corinthians 16:11</verse></h3>



Let no man therefore despise him: but conduct him forth (f) in peace, that he may come unto me:
for I look for him with the brethren.



(f) Safe and sound, and that with every type of courtesy.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 16:15
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 16:15>1 Corinthians 16:15</verse></h3>



I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of (g) Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and
[that] they have (h) addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,)



(g) Stephanas is the name of a man and not of a woman.



(h) Given themselves wholly to the ministry.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 16:16
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 16:16>1 Corinthians 16:16</verse></h3>



That ye (i) submit yourselves unto such, and to every one that helpeth with [us], and laboureth.



(i) That you honour and revere them, be obedient to them, and be content to be ruled by them, as
you properly should, seeing that they have bestowed themselves and their goods, and this to help
you with them.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 16:18
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 16:18>1 Corinthians 16:18</verse></h3>



For they have refreshed my (k) spirit and yours: therefore (l) acknowledge ye them that are such.



(k) My heart.



(l) Take them for such men as they are indeed.
#BCV:1 Corinthians 16:22
<h3><verse=1 Corinthians 16:22>1 Corinthians 16:22</verse></h3>



If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema (m) Maranatha.



(m) By these words are meant the severest type of curse and excommunication that was among the
Jews: and the words are as much as to say, "As our Lord comes". So that his meaning may be this,
"Let him be accursed even to the coming of the Lord", that is to say, to the day of his death, even
for ever.

<h1>2 Corinthians</h1>


<h2>2 Corinthians 1</h2>

#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:1
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:1>2 Corinthians 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=2989>Paul, (1) an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy [our] brother, unto the church
of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia:



(1) See the declaration of such salutations in the former epistles.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:3
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:3>2 Corinthians 1:3</verse></h3>




(2) (a) Blessed [be] God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of (b) mercies, and the
God of all comfort;



(2) He begins after this manner with thanksgiving, which nonetheless (otherwise than he was
accustomed to) he applies to himself: beginning his epistle with the setting forth of the dignity of
his apostleship, forced (as it should seem) by their importunity which took an occasion to despise
him, by reason of his miseries. But he answers, that he is not so afflicted but that his comforts do
exceed his afflictions, showing the ground of them, even the mercy of God the Father in Jesus
Christ.



(a) To him be praise and glory given.



(b) Most merciful.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:4
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:4>2 Corinthians 1:4</verse></h3>



Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, (3) that we may be able to comfort them which are in any
trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.



(3) The Lord comforts us to this end and purpose, that we may so much the more surely comfort
others.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:5
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:5>2 Corinthians 1:5</verse></h3>



For as the (c) sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ.



(c) The miseries which we suffer for Christ, or which Christ suffers in us.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:6
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:6>2 Corinthians 1:6</verse></h3>


<page=2990>(4) And whether we be afflicted, [it is] for your consolation and salvation, which is (d) effectual in
the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, [it is] for
your consolation and salvation.



(4) He denies that either his afflictions with which he was often afflicted, or the consolations which
he received of God, may justly be despised, seeing that the Corinthians both ought and might take
great occasion to be strengthened and encouraged by either of them.



(d) Although salvation is given to us freely, yet because there is a way appointed to us by which we
must come to it, which is the race of an innocent and upright life which we must run, therefore we
are said to work our salvation; (<bcv=Philip 2:12>Phi 2:12</bcv>). And because it is God alone that of his free good will
works all things in us, therefore is he said to work the salvation in us by that very same way by which
we must pass to everlasting life, after we have once overcome all incumbrances.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:8
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:8>2 Corinthians 1:8</verse></h3>




(5) For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we
were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we (e) despaired even of life:



(5) He witnesses that he is not ashamed of his afflictions, and further that he desires also to have all
men know the greatness of them, and also his delivery from them, although it is not yet perfect.



(e) I did not know at all what to do, neither did I see by man's help which way to save my life.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:9
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:9>2 Corinthians 1:9</verse></h3>



But we had the sentence of death in (f) ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God
which raiseth the dead:



(f) I was resolved within myself to die.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:10
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:10>2 Corinthians 1:10</verse></h3>



Who delivered us from so (g) great a death, and doth deliver: in whom we trust that he will yet
deliver [us];



(g) From these great dangers.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:11
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:11>2 Corinthians 1:11</verse></h3>




(6) Ye also helping together by prayer for us, (7) that for the gift [bestowed] upon us by the means
of many persons thanks may be given by many on our behalf.

<page=2991>(6) That he may not seem to boast of himself, he attributes all to God, and in so doing also
confesses that he attributes much to the prayers of the faithful. (7) The end of the afflictions of the
saints is the glory of God, and therefore they ought to be precious to us.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:12
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:12>2 Corinthians 1:12</verse></h3>




(8) For our rejoicing is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in simplicity and godly (h) sincerity,
not with fleshly wisdom, but by the (i) grace of God, we have had our conversation in the world,
and more abundantly to you-ward.



(8) Secondly, he dismisses another slander, that is, that he was a light man, and such a one as was not
lightly to be trusted, seeing that he promised to come to them, and did not come. And first he
speaks of the singleness of his mind, and sincerity, which they knew both by his voice when he was
present, and they ought to acknowledge it also in his letters, being absent: and moreover he protests
that he will never be otherwise.



(h) With clearness, and holy and true plainness of mind, as God himself can witness.



(i) Trusting to that very wisdom which God of his free goodness has given me from heaven.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:13
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:13>2 Corinthians 1:13</verse></h3>



For we write (k) none other things unto you, than what ye read or acknowledge; and I trust ye shall
acknowledge even to the (l) end;



(k) He says that he writes plainly and simply: for he that writes in an elaborate way, is rightly said to
write otherwise than we read. And this, he says, the Corinthians will truly know and like very well.



(l) Perfectly.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:14
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:14>2 Corinthians 1:14</verse></h3>



As also ye have acknowledged us in part, that we are your (m) rejoicing, even as ye also [are] ours in
the (n) day of the Lord Jesus.



(m) Paul's rejoicing in the Lord was that he had won the Corinthians: and they themselves rejoiced
that such an apostle was their instructor, and taught them so purely and sincerely.



(n) When he will sit as judge.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:15
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:15>2 Corinthians 1:15</verse></h3>



And in this confidence I was minded to come unto you before, that ye might have a (o) second
benefit;

<page=2992>(o) Another benefit.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:17
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:17>2 Corinthians 1:17</verse></h3>




(9) When I therefore was thus minded, did I use lightness? or the things that I purpose, do I purpose
according to the (p) flesh, that with me there should be (q) yea yea, and nay nay?



(9) He dismisses their slander and false report by denying it, and first of all in that different ones
went about to persuade the Corinthians, that in the preaching of the Gospel, Paul agreed not to
himself: for this was the matter and the case.



(p) As men do who will rashly promise anything, and change their purpose constantly.



(q) That I should say and not say a thing?
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:18
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:18>2 Corinthians 1:18</verse></h3>




(10) But [as] God [is] (r) true, our word toward you was not yea and nay.



(10) He calls God as witness and as judge of his constancy in preaching and teaching one self same
Gospel.



(r) True, and of whose faithful witness it would be horribly wicked to doubt.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:19
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:19>2 Corinthians 1:19</verse></h3>




(11) For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was preached among you by us, [even] by me and
Silvanus and Timotheus, (s) was not yea and nay, but in (t) him was yea.



(11) He adds also with himself his companions, as witnesses with whom he fully consented in
teaching the same thing, that is, the same Christ.



(s) Was not different and wavering.



(t) That is, in God.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:20
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:20>2 Corinthians 1:20</verse></h3>




(12) For all the promises of God in him [are] yea, and in (u) him Amen, unto the glory of God by (x)
us.



(12) Last of all he declares the sum of his doctrine, that is, that all the promises of salvation are sure
and ratified in Christ.



(u) Christ is set also forth to exhibit and fulfil them most assuredly, and without any doubt.



(x) Through our ministry.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:21
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:21>2 Corinthians 1:21</verse></h3>


<page=2993>(13) Now he which stablisheth us with you in Christ, and hath anointed us, [is] God;



(13) He attributes the praise of this constancy only to the grace of God, through the Holy Spirit. In
addition he concludes that they cannot doubt of his faith and his fellows, without doing injury to the
Spirit of God, seeing that they themselves know all this to be true.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:22
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:22>2 Corinthians 1:22</verse></h3>



Who hath also sealed us, and given the (y) earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.



(y) An earnest is whatever is given to confirm a promise.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:23
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:23>2 Corinthians 1:23</verse></h3>




(14) Moreover I call God for a record upon my (z) soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto
Corinth.



(14) Now coming to the matter, he swears that he did not lightly alter his purpose of coming to
them, but rather that he did not come to them for this reason, that he, being present, might not be
forced to deal more sharply with them than he would like.



(z) Against myself, and to the danger of my own life.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 1:24
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 1:24>2 Corinthians 1:24</verse></h3>




(15) Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your (a) joy: for by faith ye
stand.



(15) He removes all suspicion of arrogance, declaring that he speaks not as a lord to them, but as a
servant, appointed by God to comfort them.



(a) He sets the joy and peace of conscience, which God is author of, as opposed to tyrannous fear,
and in addition shows the result of the Gospel.

<h2>2 Corinthians 2</h2>

#BCV:2 Corinthians 2:1
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 2:1>2 Corinthians 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=2994>But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in (a) heaviness.



(a) Causing grief among you, which he would have done if he had come to them before they had
repented.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 2:3
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 2:3>2 Corinthians 2:3</verse></h3>



And I wrote this same unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I
ought to rejoice; having (b) confidence in you all, that my joy is [the joy] of you all.



(b) For I trusted that you would immediately take that out of the way which you knew I was
discontented with, considering how you are persuaded that my joy is your joy.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 2:5
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 2:5>2 Corinthians 2:5</verse></h3>




(1) But if any have caused grief, he hath not (c) grieved me, but (d) in part: that I may not (e)
overcharge you all.



(1) He passes to another part of this epistle: which nonetheless is put among the first, and to which
he returns afterwards: and he handles the releasing and unloosing of the incestuous person, because
he seemed to have been given sufficient testimony of his repentance. And this shows the true use of
excommunication, that is, that it proceeds not from hatred, but from love, and so end, lest if we
keep it up, we serve Satan the devil.



(c) As if he said, "All that sorrow is so completely wiped away, that I have never felt it."



(d) As for me, says Paul, I have no more to do with him.



(e) Lest I should overcharge him who is burdened enough as it is, which burden I would be glad if it
were taken from him.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 2:7
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 2:7>2 Corinthians 2:7</verse></h3>



So that contrariwise ye [ought] rather to (f) forgive [him], and comfort [him], lest perhaps such a one
should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.



(f) That whereas before you punished him sharply, you should now forgive him.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 2:8
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 2:8>2 Corinthians 2:8</verse></h3>



Wherefore I beseech you that ye would (g) confirm [your] love toward him.

<page=2995>(g) That at my entreaty you would declare by the consent of the whole church, that you take him
again as a brother.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 2:10
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 2:10>2 Corinthians 2:10</verse></h3>



To whom ye forgive any thing, I [forgive] also: for if I forgave any thing, to whom I forgave [it], for
your sakes [forgave I it] in the (h) person of Christ;



(h) Truly, and from the heart.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 2:11
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 2:11>2 Corinthians 2:11</verse></h3>



Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his (i) devices.



(i) Of his mischievous counsel and devilish will.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 2:12
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 2:12>2 Corinthians 2:12</verse></h3>




(2) Furthermore, when I came to Troas to [preach] Christ's gospel, and a door was opened unto me
of the Lord,



(2) He returns to the confirmation of his apostleship, and brings forth both the testimonies of his
labours, and also of God's blessing.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 2:14
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 2:14>2 Corinthians 2:14</verse></h3>



Now thanks [be] unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the



(k) savour of his knowledge by us in every place.



(k) He alludes to the anointing of the priests, and the incense of the sacrifices.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 2:15
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 2:15>2 Corinthians 2:15</verse></h3>




(3) For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish:



(3) He denies that anything should be taken away from the dignity of his apostleship, because they
saw that it was not received with like success in every place. But rather very many rejected and
detested him, seeing that he preached Christ not only as a saviour of those that believe, but also as a
judge of those that condemn him.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 2:16
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 2:16>2 Corinthians 2:16</verse></h3>

<page=2996>To the one [we are] the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. (4)


And who [is] sufficient for these things?



(4) Again, he dismisses all suspicion of arrogance, attributing all things that he did to the power of
God, whom he serves sincerely, and with honest affection. And he makes them witnesses of this,
even to the sixth verse of the next chapter (<bcv=2Co 2:17>Co2 2:17</bcv>; <bcv=2Co 3:6>Co2 3:6</bcv>).

#BCV:2 Corinthians 2:17
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 2:17>2 Corinthians 2:17</verse></h3>



For we are not as many, which (l) corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in
the sight of God speak we in Christ.



(l) We do not handle it craftily and covetously, or less sincerely than we ought. And he uses a
metaphor, which is taken from hucksters, who used to play the false harlot with whatever came into
their hands.

<h2>2 Corinthians 3</h2>

#BCV:2 Corinthians 3:3
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 3:3>2 Corinthians 3:3</verse></h3>

<page=2997>[Forasmuch as ye are] (a) manifestly declared to be the epistle of Christ (b) ministered by us, written
not with ink, but with the Spirit of the (c) living God; (1) not in tables of stone, but in fleshy tables
of the heart.



(a) The apostle says this wisely, that by little and little he may come from the commendation of the
person to the matter itself.



(b) Which I took pains to write as it were.



(c) Along the way he sets the power of God against the ink with which epistles are commonly
written, to show that it was accomplished by God. (1) He alludes along the way to the comparison
of the outward ministry of the priesthood of Levi with the ministry of the Gospel, and the
apostolical ministry, which he handles afterward more fully.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 3:4
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 3:4>2 Corinthians 3:4</verse></h3>



And such (d) trust have we through Christ to God-ward:



(d) This boldness we show, and thus may we boast gloriously of the worthiness and fruit of our
ministry.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 3:5
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 3:5>2 Corinthians 3:5</verse></h3>



Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our (e) sufficiency [is]
of God;



(e) In that we are proper and able to make other men partakers of so great a grace.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 3:6
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 3:6>2 Corinthians 3:6</verse></h3>




(2) Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the (f) letter, but of the spirit:
for the letter killeth, but the spirit giveth life.



(2) He amplifies his ministry and his fellows: that is to say, the ministry of the Gospel comparing it
with the ministry of the Law, which he considers in the person of Moses, by whom the Law was
given: against whom he sets Christ the author of the Gospel. Now this comparison is taken from
the very substance of the ministry. The Law is as it were a writing in itself, dead, and without
efficacy: but the Gospel, and new Covenant, as it were the very power of God itself, in renewing,
justifying, and saving men. The Law offers death, accusing all men of unrighteousness: the Gospel
offers and gives righteousness and life. The administration of the Law served for a time to the
<page=2998>promise: the Gospel remains to the end of the world. Therefore what is the glory of the Law in
comparison of the majesty of the Gospel?



(f) Not of the Law but of the Gospel.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 3:7
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 3:7>2 Corinthians 3:7</verse></h3>



But if the ministration of death, written (g) [and] engraven in stones, was (h) glorious, so that the
children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance;
which [glory] was to be done away:



(g) Imprinted and engraved: so that by this place we may plainly perceive that the apostle speaks not
of the ceremonies of the Law, but of the ten commandments.



(h) This word "glorious" indicates a brightness, and a majesty which was in Moses physically, but in
Christ spiritually.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 3:8
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 3:8>2 Corinthians 3:8</verse></h3>



How shall not the (i) ministration of the spirit be rather glorious?



(i) By which God offers, indeed, and gives the Spirit, not as a dead thing, but a living Spirit, working
life.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 3:9
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 3:9>2 Corinthians 3:9</verse></h3>



For if the ministration of condemnation [be] glory, much more doth the ministration of (k)
righteousness exceed in glory.



(k) That is, of Christ. And since he is imputed to us as our own, we are not condemned, and what is
more we are also crowned as righteous.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 3:11
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 3:11>2 Corinthians 3:11</verse></h3>



For if that which is (l) done away [was] glorious, much more that which remaineth [is] glorious.



(l) The Law, indeed, and the ten commandments themselves, together with Moses, are all abolished,
if we consider the ministry of Moses apart by itself.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 3:12
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 3:12>2 Corinthians 3:12</verse></h3>




(3) Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech:

<page=2999>(3) He shows what this glory of the preaching of the Gospel consists in: that is, in that it sets forth
plainly and evidently that which the Law showed darkly, for it sent those that heard it to be healed by
Christ, who was to come, after it had wounded them.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 3:13
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 3:13>2 Corinthians 3:13</verse></h3>




(4) And not as Moses, [which] put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly
look to the (m) end of that which is abolished:



(4) He expounds along the way the allegory of Moses' covering, which was a token of the darkness
and weakness that is in men, who were rather dulled by the bright shining of the Law then given.
And this covering was taken away by the coming of Christ, who enlightens the hearts, and turns
them to the Lord, that we may be brought from the slavery of this blindness, and set in the liberty
of the light by the power of Christ's Spirit.



(m) Into the very bottom of Moses' ministry.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 3:17
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 3:17>2 Corinthians 3:17</verse></h3>



Now the (n) Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord [is], there [is] liberty.



(n) Christ is that Spirit who takes away that covering, by working in our hearts, to which also the
Law itself called us, though in vain, because it speaks to dead men, until the Spirit makes us alive.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 3:18
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 3:18>2 Corinthians 3:18</verse></h3>




(5) But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the
same image from glory to glory, [even] as by the Spirit of the Lord.



(5) Continuing in the allegory of the covering, he compares the Gospel to a glass, which although it
is most bright and sparkling, yet it does not dazzle their eyes who look in it, as the Law does, but
instead transforms them with its beams, so that they also are partakers of the glory and shining of it,
to enlighten others: as Christ said unto his own, "You are the light of the world", whereas he
himself alone is the light. We are also commanded in another place to shine as candles before the
world, because we are partakers of God's Spirit. But Paul speaks here properly of the ministers of
the Gospel, as it appears both by that which goes before, and that which comes after, and in that he
sets before them his own example and that of his fellows.

<h2>2 Corinthians 4</h2>

#BCV:2 Corinthians 4:1
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 4:1>2 Corinthians 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=3000>Therefore (1) seeing we have this ministry, as we have received mercy, we (a) faint not;



(1) Now he plainly witnesses that both he and his associates (through the mercy of God) do their
vocation and duty uprightly and sincerely, neglecting all dangers.



(a) Though we are broken in pieces with miseries and calamities, yet we do not yield.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 4:2
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 4:2>2 Corinthians 4:2</verse></h3>



But have renounced the (b) hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the
word of God (c) deceitfully; but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every
man's conscience in the sight of God.



(b) Subtilty and every type of deceit which men hunt after, as it were dens and lurking holes, to
cover their shameless dealings with.



(c) This is that which he called in the former chapter, making merchandise of the word of God.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 4:3
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 4:3>2 Corinthians 4:3</verse></h3>




(2) But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost:



(2) An objection: many hear the Gospel, and yet are no more enlightened by it than by the preaching
of the Law. He answers, "The fault is in the men themselves, whose eyes Satan plucks out, who rules
in this world." And yet nonetheless he and his associates set forth the most clear light of the Gospel
to be seen and beheld, seeing that Christ only whom they preach, is he in whom God will be known,
and as it were seen.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 4:4
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 4:4>2 Corinthians 4:4</verse></h3>



In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the (d) light
of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the (e) image of God, should shine unto them.



(d) The light of plain and enlightening preaching, which shows forth the glory of Christ.



(e) In whom the Father sets himself forth to be seen and beheld.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 4:5
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 4:5>2 Corinthians 4:5</verse></h3>

(3) For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for (f) Jesus'
sake.

<page=3001>(3) He removes according to his accustomed manner, all suspicion of ambition, affirming that he
teaches faithfully, but as a servant, and witnessing that all this light which he and his associates give
to others, proceeds from the Lord.

(f) To preach this self same Jesus to you.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 4:6
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 4:6>2 Corinthians 4:6</verse></h3>

For God, (g) who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to [give]
the (h) light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

(g) Who made with his word alone.

(h) That being enlightened by God, we should in the same way give that light to others.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 4:7
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 4:7>2 Corinthians 4:7</verse></h3>

(4) But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, (5) that the excellency of the power may be of God,
and not of us.

(4) He takes away a stumbling block, which darkened among some, the bright shining of the
ministry of the Gospel, that is, because the apostles were the most miserable of all men. Paul
answers that he and his associates are as it were, earthen vessels, but yet there is in them a most
precious treasure. (5) He brings marvellous reasons why the Lord does so afflict his principal
servants, to the end, he says, that all men may perceive that they do not stand by any man's power,
but by the singular power of God, in that they die a thousand times, but never perish.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 4:10
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 4:10>2 Corinthians 4:10</verse></h3>

(6) Always bearing about in the body the (i) dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might
be made manifest in our body.

(6) An amplification of the former sentence, in which he compares his afflictions to a daily death,
and the power of the Spirit of God in Christ to life, who oppresses that death.

(i) So Paul calls that miserable estate and condition that the faithful, but especially the ministers, are
in.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 4:11
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 4:11>2 Corinthians 4:11</verse></h3>

For we which (k) live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might
be made manifest in our (l) mortal flesh.

(k) Who live that life, that is, by the Spirit of Christ, among so many and so great miseries.

<page=3002>(l) Subject to that miserable condition.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 4:12
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 4:12>2 Corinthians 4:12</verse></h3>

(7) So then death worketh in us, but life in you.

(7) A very wise conclusion: as if he would say, "Therefore, to be short, we die that you may live by
our death", because they ventured into all those dangers for the building of the Church's sake, and
they ceased not to strengthen and encourage all the faithful with the examples of their patience.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 4:13
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 4:13>2 Corinthians 4:13</verse></h3>




(8) We having the same (m) spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I
spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;



(8) He declares the former sentence, showing that he and his associates die in a way to purchase life
for others, but yet nonetheless they are partakers of the same life with them: because they
themselves do first believe that which they offer to others to believe, that is, that they also will be
saved together with them in Christ.



(m) The same faith, by the inspiration of the same Spirit.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 4:15
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 4:15>2 Corinthians 4:15</verse></h3>




(9) For all things [are] for your sakes, (n) that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of
many redound to the glory of God.



(9) He shows how this constancy is preserved in them, that is, because they are doing it for God's
glory, and the salvation of the churches committed to them.



(n) When it will please God to deliver me, and restore me to you, that exceeding benefit which will
be poured upon me will in like sort result to the glory of God, by the thanksgiving of many.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 4:16
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 4:16>2 Corinthians 4:16</verse></h3>



For which cause we faint not; (10) but though our outward man perish, yet the inward [man] is (o)
renewed day by day.



(10) He adds as it were a triumphant song, that he is outwardly afflicted, but inwardly he profits daily:
and he is not bothered by all the miseries that may be sustained in this life, in comparison of that
most constant and eternal glory.



(o) Gathers new strength so that the outward man is not overcome with the miseries which come
freshly one after another, being maintained and upheld with the strength of the inward man.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 4:17
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 4:17>2 Corinthians 4:17</verse></h3>

<page=3003>For our (p) light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding [and]
eternal weight of (q) glory;



(p) Afflictions are not called light, as though they were light in themselves, but because they pass
away quickly, as indeed our whole life is not of very long continuance.



(q) Which remains forever firm and stable, and can never be shaken.

<h2>2 Corinthians 5</h2>

#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:1
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:1>2 Corinthians 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=3004>For (1) we know that if our earthly house of [this] tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of
God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.



(1) Taking occasion by the former comparison, he compares this miserable body as it is in this life,
to a frail and brittle tabernacle. And contrasts this with the heavenly tabernacle, which he calls that
sure and everlasting condition of this same body glorified in heaven. And this is so, he says, in that
we are addicted to this tabernacle, but also with sobs and sighs desire rather that tabernacle. And so
this place concerning the glory to come is put within the treatise of the dignity of the ministry, just
as it also was in the beginning of the second chapter.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:2
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:2>2 Corinthians 5:2</verse></h3>



For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be (a) clothed upon with our house which is from (b)
heaven:



(a) He calls the glory of immortality, which we will be as it were clothed with, a garment.



(b) Heavenly, not that the substance of it is heavenly, but rather the glory of it.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:3
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:3>2 Corinthians 5:3</verse></h3>




(2) If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked.



(2) An exposition of the former saying: we do not without reason desire to be clad with the heavenly
house, that is, with that everlasting and immortal glory, as with a garment. For when we depart from
here we will not remain naked, having cast off the covering of this body, but we will take our bodies
again, which will put on as it were another garment besides. And therefore we do not sigh because
of the weariness of this life, but because of the desire of a better life. Neither is this desire in vain,
for we are made to that life, the pledge of which we have, even the Spirit of adoption.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:5
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:5>2 Corinthians 5:5</verse></h3>



Now he that hath (c) wrought us for the selfsame thing [is] God, who also hath given unto us the
earnest of the Spirit.



(c) He means that first creation, to show us that our bodies were made to this end, that they should
be clothed with heavenly immortality.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:6
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:6>2 Corinthians 5:6</verse></h3>


<page=3005>(3) Therefore [we are] always (d) confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are
absent from the Lord:



(3) He concludes something here from verse four, and states it in the following way: "Therefore,
seeing that we know by the Spirit that we are strangers so long as we are here, we patiently suffer this
delay (for we are now so with God, that we behold him only by faith, and are therefore now absent
from him) but so that we aspire and have a longing always to him. Therefore also we behave
ourselves in such a way that we may be acceptable to him, both while we live here, and when we go
from here to him." (<bcv=2Co 5:4>Co2 5:4</bcv>)



(d) He calls them "confident" who are always resolved with a quiet and settled mind to suffer any
danger at all, not doubting at all that their end will be happy.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:7
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:7>2 Corinthians 5:7</verse></h3>




(For we walk by (e) faith, not by sight:)



(e) Faith, of those things which we hope for, not having God presently in our physical view.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:8
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:8>2 Corinthians 5:8</verse></h3>



We are (f) confident, [I say], and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with
the Lord.



(f) And yet we are in such a manner confident and do so pass on our pilgrimage with a valiant and
peaceful mind, that yet nonetheless we had rather depart from here to the Lord.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:9
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:9>2 Corinthians 5:9</verse></h3>



Wherefore we (g) labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him.



(g) And seeing that it is so, we strive to live so, that both in this our pilgrimage here we may please
him, and that at length we may be received home to him.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:10
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:10>2 Corinthians 5:10</verse></h3>




(4) For we must all (h) appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the
things [done] in [his] body, according to that he hath done, whether [it be] good or bad.



(4) That no man might think that what he spoke of that heavenly glory pertains to all, he adds that
every one will first render an account of his pilgrimage, after he has departed from here.



(h) We must all appear personally, and enquiry will be made of us, that all may see how we have lived.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:11
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:11>2 Corinthians 5:11</verse></h3>


(5) Knowing therefore the (i) terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto
God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences.



(5) Now he moves on, and taking occasion of the former sentence returns to (<bcv=2Co 4:16>Co2 4:16</bcv>), confirming
his own and his associates sincerity.



(i) That terrible judgment.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:12
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:12>2 Corinthians 5:12</verse></h3>




(6) For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf,
that ye may have somewhat to [answer] them which glory in (k) appearance, and not in heart.



(6) He removes all suspicion of pride by a new reason, because it is a responsibility, not for his part
but for theirs, that his apostleship be considered sincere compared to the vain display of a few
others.



(k) In outward disguising, and that pretentious show of man's wisdom and eloquence, and not in
true godliness, which is sealed in the heart.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:13
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:13>2 Corinthians 5:13</verse></h3>




(7) For whether we be beside ourselves, [it is] to God: or whether we be sober, [it is] for your cause.



(7) The meaning is: even when I am mad (as some men think of me), while I seem as a fool to boast
about myself, I do it for your profit, to the same extent that I do when I preach only the Gospel to
you.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:14
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:14>2 Corinthians 5:14</verse></h3>




(8) For the love of Christ (l) constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if (m) one died for all, then
were all dead:



(8) He continues dismissing all suspicion of desire of estimation and boasting. For the love of
Christ, he says, compels us to this, that seeing he died for us all, who were dead when as we lived to
ourselves (that is, while we were yet given to these earthly affections) we in like sort should
consecrate our whole life which we have received from him, to him. That is, being endued with the
Holy Spirit to this end and purpose, that we should meditate upon nothing but that which is
heavenly.



(l) Wholly possesses us.



(m) He speaks here of sanctification, by which it comes to pass that Christ lives in us.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:15
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:15>2 Corinthians 5:15</verse></h3>


And [that] he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth (n) live unto themselves, but
unto him which died for them, and rose again.



(n) See See<bcv=Rom 6:1-7> Romans 6:1-7</bcv>:25
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:16
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:16>2 Corinthians 5:16</verse></h3>




(9) Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: (10) yea, though we have known Christ
after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we [him] no more.



(9) He shows what it is not to live to ourselves but to Christ, that is, to know no man according to
the flesh. That is to say, to be conversant among men and yet not to care for those worldly and
carnal things, as those do who have regard for a man's family, his country, form, glory, riches, and
such like, in which men commonly dote and weary themselves.



(10) An amplification: "This is", he says, "so true, that we do not now think carnally of Christ
himself, who has now left the world, and therefore he must be thought of spiritually by us."
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:17
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:17>2 Corinthians 5:17</verse></h3>




(11) Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a (o) new creature: old things are passed away;
behold, all things are become new.



(11) An exhortation for every man who is renewed with the Spirit of Christ to meditate on heavenly
things, and not earthly.



(o) As a thing made new by God, for though a man is not newly created when God gives him the
spirit of regeneration, but only his qualities are changed, yet nonetheless it pleased the Holy Spirit to
speak so, to teach us that we must attribute all things to the glory of God. Not that we are as rocks
or stones, but because God creates in us both the will to will well, and the power to do well.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:18
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:18>2 Corinthians 5:18</verse></h3>




(12) And all things [are] of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given
to us the ministry of reconciliation;



(12) He commends the excellency of the ministry of the Gospel, both by the authority of God
himself, who is the author of that ministry, and also by the excellency of the doctrine of it. For it
announces atonement with God by free forgiveness of our sins, and justification offered to us in
Christ, and that so lovingly and freely, that God himself does in a way beseech men by the mouth of
his ministers to have consideration of themselves, and not to despise so great a benefit. And when
he says so, he plainly reprehends those who falsely attribute to themselves the name of "pastor", as
this calling can only come from God.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:19
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:19>2 Corinthians 5:19</verse></h3>

<page=3008>To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses
unto them; and hath (p) committed unto us the word of reconciliation.



(p) Used our labour and travail.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 5:21
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 5:21>2 Corinthians 5:21</verse></h3>



For he hath made him [to be] (q) sin for us, who (r) knew no sin; that we might be made the (s)
righteousness of God in him.



(q) A sinner, not in himself, but by imputation of the guilt of all our sins to him.



(r) Who was completely void of sin.



(s) Righteous before God, and that with righteousness which is not fundamental in us, but being
fundamental in Christ, God imputes it to us through faith.

<h2>2 Corinthians 6</h2>

#BCV:2 Corinthians 6:1
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 6:1>2 Corinthians 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=3009>We (1) then, [as] workers together [with him], beseech [you] also that ye receive not the grace of
God in vain.



(1) Men do not only need the ministry of the Gospel before they have received grace, in order that
they may be partakers of the Gospel, but also after they have received grace they need to continue in
it.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 6:2
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 6:2>2 Corinthians 6:2</verse></h3>




(2) (For he saith, I have heard thee in a time (a) accepted, and in the day of salvation have I
succoured thee: behold, now [is] the accepted time; behold, now [is] the day of salvation.)



(2) In that grace is offered, it is by the grace of God, who has appointed times and seasons to all
things, that we may take occasion when it is offered.



(a) Which I of my free mercy and love towards you liked and appointed. And at this time God
poured out his marvellous love upon us.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 6:3
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 6:3>2 Corinthians 6:3</verse></h3>




(3) Giving no offence in any thing, that the ministry be not blamed:



(3) He shows the Corinthians a pattern of a true minister in his own example, and in Timothy and
Silvanus, to the end that he might procure authority for himself and his companions like him, as he
purposed from the beginning.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 6:4
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 6:4>2 Corinthians 6:4</verse></h3>



But in all [things] (b) approving ourselves as the ministers of God, (4) in much patience, in
afflictions, in necessities, in distresses,



(b) Declare and indeed show. (4) He first of all reckons up those things which are neither always in
the ministers, nor without exception, unless they are there according to the minister's bodily
condition. Patience, however, is an exception, which also is one of the virtues which ought to always
be in a good minister.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 6:5
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 6:5>2 Corinthians 6:5</verse></h3>



In stripes, in imprisonments, in (c) tumults, in labours, in watchings, in fastings;

<page=3010>(c) In tossing to and fro, finding no place of rest and quietness.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 6:6
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 6:6>2 Corinthians 6:6</verse></h3>




(5) By pureness, by knowledge, by longsuffering, by kindness, by the Holy Ghost, by love unfeigned,



(5) Secondly he reckons up such virtues as are necessary, and ought alway be in them, and by which
as by good armour, all pitfalls and hindrances may be overcome.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 6:7
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 6:7>2 Corinthians 6:7</verse></h3>



By the (d) word of truth, by the (e) power of God, by the (f) armour of righteousness on the right
hand and on the left,



(d) Preaching of the Gospel.



(e) Power to work miracles, and to subdue the wicked.



(f) Uprightness.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 6:11
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 6:11>2 Corinthians 6:11</verse></h3>




(6) O [ye] Corinthians, our mouth is (g) open unto you, our heart is enlarged.



(6) Going about to rebuke them he says first that he deals with them sincerely and with an open and
plain heart, and in addition complains that they do not do the same in loving their Father.



(g) The opening of the mouth and heart signifies a most earnest affection in him that speaks, as it
happens commonly with those that are in some great joy.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 6:12
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 6:12>2 Corinthians 6:12</verse></h3>



Ye are not (h) straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own (i) bowels.



(h) You are in my heart as in a house, and that no narrow or confined house, for I have opened my
whole heart to you; but you are inwardly narrow towards me.



(i) After the manner of the Hebrews, he calls those tender affections which rest in the heart,
"bowels".
#BCV:2 Corinthians 6:14
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 6:14>2 Corinthians 6:14</verse></h3>




(7) Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with
unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?

<page=3011>(7) Now he rebukes them boldly, because they became fellows with infidels in outward idolatry, as
though it were an indifferent thing. And this is the fourth part of this epistle, the conclusion of
which is, that those whom the Lord has condescended to in calling them his children, must keep
themselves pure, not only in mind, but also in body, that they may be completely holy to the Lord.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 6:15
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 6:15>2 Corinthians 6:15</verse></h3>



And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what (k) part hath he that believeth with an infidel?



(k) What can there be between them?
#BCV:2 Corinthians 6:16
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 6:16>2 Corinthians 6:16</verse></h3>



And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the (l) living God;
as God hath said, I will (m) dwell in them, and walk in [them]; and I will be their God, and they shall
be my people.



(l) He sets the living God against idols.



(m) God dwells with us, because Christ has become God with us.

<h2>2 Corinthians 7</h2>

#BCV:2 Corinthians 7:1
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 7:1>2 Corinthians 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=3012>Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the (a)
flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.



(a) Both of body and soul, that by this means the sanctification may be perfect, consisting in both
the parts of the flesh.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 7:2
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 7:2>2 Corinthians 7:2</verse></h3>




(1) (b) Receive us; we have wronged no man, we have corrupted no man, we have defrauded no man.



(1) He returns again from that admonition to his own person, contrasting with them the testimonies
both of his faithfulness and also of his continual good will towards them.



(b) Let me have some place among you, that I may teach you.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 7:3
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 7:3>2 Corinthians 7:3</verse></h3>



I speak not [this] to (c) condemn [you]: for I have said before, that ye are in our hearts to die and live
with [you].



(c) To condemn you of unkindness or treachery.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 7:6
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 7:6>2 Corinthians 7:6</verse></h3>

Nevertheless God, that comforteth those that are (d) cast down, comforted us by the (e) coming of
Titus;

(d) Whose hearts are cast down, and are very much worn out.

(e) With those things which Titus told me of you at his coming, that is, how fruitfully you read over
my letters. And moreover and besides that, I am exceedingly refreshed with his presence.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 7:8
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 7:8>2 Corinthians 7:8</verse></h3>


(2) For though I made you sorry with a letter, I do not repent, though I did repent: for I perceive
that the same epistle hath made you sorry, though [it were] but for a season.

(2) An objection: but you have handled us roughly. The apostle answers that he did not use his
roughness without grief. And he adds moreover, that he is also glad now that he drove them to that
sorrow even though it was against his will, since it was so profitable to them. For there is a sorrow
<page=3013>not only praiseworthy, but also necessary, that is, by which repentance grows by certain degrees: and
for this repentance he praises them highly. And this is the fifth part of this epistle.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 7:9
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 7:9>2 Corinthians 7:9</verse></h3>

Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to (f) repentance: for ye were made
sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing.

(f) In that this sorrow did you much good in leading you to amend your obscene behaviour and sins.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 7:10
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 7:10>2 Corinthians 7:10</verse></h3>

For (g) godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the
world worketh death.

(g) God's sorrow occurs when we are not terrified with the fear of punishment, but because we feel
we have offended God our most merciful Father. Contrary to this there is another sorrow, that only
fears punishment, or when a man is vexed for the loss of some worldly goods. The fruit of the first
is repentance, and the fruit of the second is desperation, unless the Lord quickly helps.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 7:12
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 7:12>2 Corinthians 7:12</verse></h3>

Wherefore, though I wrote unto you, [I did it] not for his cause that had done the wrong, nor for his
cause that suffered wrong, but that our care for you in the (h) sight of God might appear unto you.

(h) It was neither fake nor counterfeit, but such as I dare give account of before God.

<h2>2 Corinthians 8</h2>

#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:1
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:1>2 Corinthians 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=3014>Moreover, (1) brethren, we do you to wit of the (a) grace of God bestowed on the churches of
Macedonia;

(1) The sixth part of this epistle containing different exhortations to stir up the Corinthians to
liberality, with which the poverty of the church of Jerusalem might be helped at an appropriate time.
And first of all he sets before them the example of the churches of Macedonia, which otherwise
were brought by great misery to extreme poverty, so that the Corinthians should follow them.

(a) The benefit that God bestowed upon the Corinthians.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:2
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:2>2 Corinthians 8:2</verse></h3>

How that in a (b) great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty
abounded unto the riches of their liberality.

(b) For those manifold afflictions with which the Lord tried them did not stop their joyful readiness,
but also made it much more excellent and well-known.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:3
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:3>2 Corinthians 8:3</verse></h3>

For to [their] power, I bear record, yea, and beyond [their] power [they were] (c) willing of
themselves;

(c) Of their own accord they were generous.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:4
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:4>2 Corinthians 8:4</verse></h3>



Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the (d) gift, and [take upon us] the fellowship of
the ministering to the saints.



(d) He calls that "gift" which other men would have called a burden. And this verse is to be
explained by (<bcv=2Co 8:6>Co2 8:6</bcv>).
#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:5
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:5>2 Corinthians 8:5</verse></h3>




(2) And [this they did], not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by
the will of God.



(2) He amplifies the eagerness of the Macedonians in this, that they also desired Paul to stir up the
Corinthians to accomplish the giving of alms by sending Titus to them again.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:8
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:8>2 Corinthians 8:8</verse></h3>


<page=3015>(3) I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the (e) forwardness of others, and to prove
the (f) sincerity of your love.



(3) Thirdly, he warns them to live up to the expectation which Paul and his companions have
conceived of them.



(e) At the request of the Macedonians.



(f) The naturalness of our love appears when we truly, and that frankly and freely, help our brethren
even for Christ's sake.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:9
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:9>2 Corinthians 8:9</verse></h3>




(4) For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he
became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.



(4) The fourth argument taken from the example of Christ.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:10
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:10>2 Corinthians 8:10</verse></h3>




(5) And herein I give [my] advice: for this is expedient for you, who have begun before, not only to
do, but also to (g) be forward a year ago.



(5) He takes good heed that he seem not to wrest it out of them by force, for unless it is voluntary,
God does not accept it.



(g) Not only to do, but also to do willingly: for he notes out of a ready willingness, without any
enforcement by any other men. And much less did it come out of ambition and vain glory.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:12
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:12>2 Corinthians 8:12</verse></h3>




(6) For if there be first a willing mind, [it is] accepted according to that a man hath, [and] not
according to that he hath not.



(6) Against those who excused themselves because they are not rich, as though it were only the duty
of rich men to help the poor.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:13
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:13>2 Corinthians 8:13</verse></h3>




(7) For [I mean] not that other men be eased, and ye burdened:



(7) Christian liberality is mutual, so that one does not have too much, and the other to little.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:14
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:14>2 Corinthians 8:14</verse></h3>

<page=3016>But by an (h) equality, [that] now at this time your abundance [may be a supply] for their want, that
their abundance also may be [a supply] for your want: that there may be equality:



(h) That as now in your abundance you help others with a share of your goods, so should others in
the same way bestow some of their goods upon you.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:16
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:16>2 Corinthians 8:16</verse></h3>




(8) But thanks [be] to God, which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you.



(8) He commends Titus and his two companions for many reasons, both that their credit might not
be suspected, as though he had sent them slyly to rob the churches, and also so that they might be all
the more ready to contribute.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:18
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:18>2 Corinthians 8:18</verse></h3>



And we have sent with him the brother, whose praise [is] (i) in the gospel throughout all the
churches;



(i) In the preaching of the Gospel.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:19
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:19>2 Corinthians 8:19</verse></h3>



And not [that] only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us with this (k) grace,
which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and [declaration of] your ready mind:



(k) These alms which are bestowed for the relief of the church of Jerusalem.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:20
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:20>2 Corinthians 8:20</verse></h3>



Avoiding this, that no man should blame us in this (l) abundance which is administered by us:



(l) In this plentiful liberality of the churches, which is committed to our trust.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:23
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:23>2 Corinthians 8:23</verse></h3>



Whether [any do enquire] of Titus, [he is] my partner and fellowhelper concerning you: or our (m)
brethren [be enquired of, they are] the messengers of the churches, [and] the (n) glory of Christ.



(m) The two companions of Titus.



(n) By whom the glory of Christ is set forth.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 8:24
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 8:24>2 Corinthians 8:24</verse></h3>

<page=3017>Wherefore shew ye to them, and before the (o) churches, the proof of your love, and of our
boasting on your behalf.



(o) All the churches in whose presence you are in will be witnesses of this your godly behaviour, for
these men are the messengers whom they have chosen by common consent, and sent to you.

<h2>2 Corinthians 9</h2>

#BCV:2 Corinthians 9:1
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 9:1>2 Corinthians 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=3018>For (1) as touching the ministering to the saints, it is superfluous for me to write to you:



(1) He wisely answers the suspicion which the Corinthians might conceive, as though the apostle in
urging them so carefully was doubting of their good will. Therefore he witnesses that he does it not
to teach them that they ought to help the saints, seeing that he had become surety for them to the
Macedonians. But only to stir those up who were labouring by themselves, to the end that all things
might both be in a better readiness, and also be more plentiful.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 9:4
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 9:4>2 Corinthians 9:4</verse></h3>



Lest haply if they of Macedonia come with me, and find you unprepared, we (that we say not, ye)
should be ashamed in this same (a) confident boasting.



(a) The word which he uses signifies a mind so steady and established that it cannot be moved by
any terror or fear.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 9:5
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 9:5>2 Corinthians 9:5</verse></h3>



Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and
make up beforehand your bounty, whereof ye had notice before, that the same might be ready, as [a
matter of] bounty, and not as [of] (b) covetousness.



(b) As from covetous men.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 9:6
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 9:6>2 Corinthians 9:6</verse></h3>




(2) But this [I say], He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth
bountifully shall reap also bountifully.



(2) Alms must be given neither grudgingly, nor with a loathful mind, or sparingly. And a generous
and free alms is compared to a sowing which has a most plentiful harvest of most abundant blessing
following it.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 9:7
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 9:7>2 Corinthians 9:7</verse></h3>



Every man according as he (c) purposeth in his heart, [so let him give]; not (d) grudgingly, or of (e)
necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.



(c) Determines and appoints freely with himself.

<page=3019>(d) With a sparing and grudging heart.



(e) Against his will, not wanting to have evil spoken of him.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 9:8
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 9:8>2 Corinthians 9:8</verse></h3>



And God [is] able to make (f) all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all
[things], may abound to (g) every good work:



(f) All the bountiful liberality of God.



(g) To help others by all means possible, in doing them good in their needs.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 9:9
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 9:9>2 Corinthians 9:9</verse></h3>




(As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth
for (h) ever.



(h) Is everlasting: now David speaks of a man that fears God, and loves his neighbour, who will
always be able (he says) to give to others.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 9:10
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 9:10>2 Corinthians 9:10</verse></h3>



Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for [your] food, and multiply your
seed sown, and increase the (i) fruits of your righteousness;)



(i) There is no inheritance as good to the godly as bountifulness is.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 9:12
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 9:12>2 Corinthians 9:12</verse></h3>




(3) For the administration of this service not only supplieth the want of the saints, but is abundant
also by many thanksgivings unto God;



(3) Another excellent and double fruit of liberality towards the saints is this, that it gives occasion to
praise God, and that our faith also is by it made manifest.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 9:13
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 9:13>2 Corinthians 9:13</verse></h3>



Whiles by the (k) experiment of this ministration they glorify God for your (l) professed subjection
unto the gospel of Christ, and for [your] liberal distribution unto them, and unto all [men];



(k) By this proof of your liberality in this helping of them.



(l) In showing with one consent that you acknowledge that Gospel alone which you have willingly
submitted yourselves to, declaring by this that you agree with the church of Jerusalem.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 9:15
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 9:15>2 Corinthians 9:15</verse></h3>


<page=3020>(m) Thanks [be] unto God for his unspeakable gift.



(m) Lest by this great commendation and praise the Corinthians should be puffed up, he concludes
this exhortation with this exclamation.

<h2>2 Corinthians 10</h2>

#BCV:2 Corinthians 10:1
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 10:1>2 Corinthians 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=3021>Now (1) I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and (a) gentleness of Christ, who in presence
[am] base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:



(1) He returns to the defence of his apostleship, but in such a way that he uses his authority in his
defence: for he warns them earnestly and gravely, using also terrible threatenings, to show
themselves to be those who are able to be instructed. And he reviles certain proud men who made
no better account of him, than of a bragging proud man, in that he used to be sharp against them
when he was absent, because they saw no great majesty in him after the manner of men; and besides,
he had proved his gentleness, even though in his absence he had written to them sharply. Therefore
first of all he professes that he was gentle and moderate, but after the example of Christ: but if they
continue still to despise his gentleness, he protests to them that he will show indeed how far they are
deceived, who judge the office of an apostle in the same way that they judge worldly offices, that is,
according to the outward appearance.



(a) That nature which is inclined to mercy, rather than to rigor of justice.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 10:2
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 10:2>2 Corinthians 10:2</verse></h3>



But I beseech [you], that I may not be bold when I am present with that confidence, wherewith I
think to be bold against some, which think of us as if we walked (b) according to the flesh.



(b) As though I had no other aid and help than that which outwardly I seem to have: and therefore
Paul contrasts his flesh, that is, his weak condition and state, with his spiritual and apostolic dignity.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 10:3
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 10:3>2 Corinthians 10:3</verse></h3>




(2) For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh:



(2) Secondly, he witnesses that although he is similar to other men, yet he comes furnished with that
strength which no defence of man can match, whether they resist by craft and deceit, or by force
and might, because he battles with divine weapons.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 10:4
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 10:4>2 Corinthians 10:4</verse></h3>




(For the weapons of our warfare [are] not (c) carnal, but mighty through (d) God to the pulling
down of strong holds;)



(c) Are not those weapons that men get authority over one another with, and do great acts.



(d) Stand upon the foundation of God's infinite power.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 10:5
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 10:5>2 Corinthians 10:5</verse></h3>

<page=3022>Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God,



(3) and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;



(3) An amplification of this spiritual power, which conquers the enemies in such a way, be they ever
so crafty and mighty, that it brings some of them by repentance to Christ, and justly avenges others
that are stubbornly obstinate, separating them from the others who allow themselves to be ruled.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 10:7
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 10:7>2 Corinthians 10:7</verse></h3>




(4) Do ye look on things after the (e) outward appearance? If any man trust to himself that he is
Christ's, let him of (f) himself think this again, that, as he [is] Christ's, even so [are] we Christ's.



(4) He emphasises the same matter with very weighty words and sentences.



(e) Do you judge things according to the outward appearance?



(f) Not being told about it by me.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 10:10
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 10:10>2 Corinthians 10:10</verse></h3>



For [his] letters, say (g) they, [are] weighty and powerful; but [his] bodily presence [is] weak, and [his]
speech contemptible.



(g) He notes out those who were the cause of these words.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 10:12
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 10:12>2 Corinthians 10:12</verse></h3>




(5) For we (h) dare not make ourselves of the number, or compare ourselves with some that
commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by (i) themselves, and (k) comparing
themselves among themselves, are not wise.



(5) Being forced to refute the foolish braggings of certain ambitious men, he witnesses that they are
able to bring nothing, but that they falsely think highly of themselves. And as for himself, although
he brags of excellent things, yet he will not pass the bounds which God has measured him out. And
according to these bounds he came even to them in preaching the Gospel of Christ, and trusts that
he will go further, when they have so profited that he will not need to remain any longer among
them to instruct them. And to this is added an amplification, in that he never followed the labours
of other men.



(h) This is spoken in a taunting manner.



(i) Upon a vain persuasion that they have of themselves, they attribute to themselves anything at all.

<page=3023>(k) They condemn others, and measure all their doings only by themselves.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 10:13
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 10:13>2 Corinthians 10:13</verse></h3>



But we will not boast of things without [our] (l) measure, but according to the measure of the rule
which God hath distributed to us, a measure to reach even unto you.



(l) Of those things which God has not measured to me.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 10:15
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 10:15>2 Corinthians 10:15</verse></h3>



Not boasting of things (m) without [our] measure, [that is], of other men's labours; but having hope,
when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you according to our rule abundantly,



(m) As though God had divided the whole world among the apostles to be governed.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 10:16
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 10:16>2 Corinthians 10:16</verse></h3>



To preach the gospel in the [regions] beyond you, [and] not to boast in (n) another man's line of
things made ready to our hand.



(n) In countries which other men have prepared and cultivated with the preaching of the Gospel.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 10:17
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 10:17>2 Corinthians 10:17</verse></h3>




(6) But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.



(6) He somewhat moderates that which he spoke of himself, and in so doing also prepares the
Corinthians to hear other things, witnessing that he seeks nothing else but to approve himself to
God, whose glory alone he seeks.

<h2>2 Corinthians 11</h2>

#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:1
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:1>2 Corinthians 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=3024>Would (1) to God ye could bear with me a little in [my] folly: and indeed bear with me.



(1) He grants that in a way he is playing the fool in this exalting of things, but he adds that he does it
against his will for their profit, because he sees them deceived by certain vain and crafty men,
through the craft and subtilty of Satan.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:2
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:2>2 Corinthians 11:2</verse></h3>



For I am jealous over you with (a) godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband, that I
may (b) present [you as] a chaste virgin to Christ.



(a) He speaks as one who woos them, but yet as one that seeks them not for himself, but for God.



(b) To marry you together.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:3
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:3>2 Corinthians 11:3</verse></h3>



But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should
be (c) corrupted from the simplicity that is in (d) Christ.



(c) This passage is to be noted against those who hate the plain and pure simplicity of the scriptures,
in comparison of the elegance and fluency of man's eloquence.



(d) Which is proper for those who are in Christ.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:4
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:4>2 Corinthians 11:4</verse></h3>




(2) For if he that cometh preacheth (e) another Jesus, whom we have not preached, or [if] ye receive
another spirit, which ye have not received, or another gospel, which ye have not accepted, ye might
well bear with [him].



(2) He shows that they deceive themselves, if they look to receive from any other man, either a more
excellent Gospel, or more excellent gifts of the Holy Spirit.



(e) A more perfect doctrine of Jesus Christ.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:6
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:6>2 Corinthians 11:6</verse></h3>




(3) But though [I be] (f) rude in speech, yet not in knowledge; but we have been throughly made
manifest among you in all things.

<page=3025>(3) He refutes the slanders of those boastful and proud men. I grant, he says, that I am not so
eloquent an orator, but yet they cannot take away the knowledge of the Gospel from me, of which
you have had good proof, and that in every manner of way.



(f) Paul did not lack the type of eloquence which is proper for a man, and fit for the Gospel, but he
willingly lacked that eloquent type of speech, which too many now a days search after and follow.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:7
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:7>2 Corinthians 11:7</verse></h3>




(4) Have I committed an offence in abasing myself that ye might be exalted, because I have
preached to you the gospel of God freely?



(4) Another slander, that is, that he was a rascal, and lived by the labour of his own hands. But in this,
the apostle says, what can you lay against me, except that I was content to take any pains for your
sakes? For when I lacked, I travailed for my living with my own hands. And also when poverty
forced me, I chose rather to seek my sustenance than to be any burden to you, even though I
preached the Gospel to you.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:9
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:9>2 Corinthians 11:9</verse></h3>



And when I was present with you, and wanted, I was chargeable to no man: for that which was
lacking to me the brethren which came from Macedonia supplied: and in all [things] I have kept
myself from being burdensome unto you, (5) and [so] will I keep [myself].



(5) An amplification: so far is he from being ashamed of this act, that he has also resolved with
himself to act in no other way while he is among them, in order that it may always be truly said that
he taught in Achaia for nothing. And this is not because he disdains the Corinthians, but rather so
that these proud and boastful men may never find the occasion which they have already sought for,
and he in the meantime may set something before the Corinthians to follow, so that at length they
may truly say that they are like Paul.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:10
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:10>2 Corinthians 11:10</verse></h3>



As the (g) truth of Christ is in me, no man shall (h) stop me of this boasting in the regions of
Achaia.



(g) This is a form of an oath, as if he said, "Let me not be thought to have any truth in me."



(h) Will be always open to me.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:12
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:12>2 Corinthians 11:12</verse></h3>



But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that
wherein they (i) glory, they may be found even as we.

<page=3026>(i) Paul's adversaries sought all occasions they could to be equal to him. And therefore seeing they
had rather live off the Corinthians then preach to them for nothing, they sought another occasion,
that is, to make Paul take something. And if he had done this, then they hoped by this means to be
equal to him. For they made such a show of zeal and knowledge, and set it forth with such a
flattering type of eloquence, that some of them even despised Paul. But he shows that all this is
nothing but frivolities and pretensions.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:13
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:13>2 Corinthians 11:13</verse></h3>




(6) For such [are] false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of
Christ.



(6) Now at length he portrays these fellows as they truly are, forewarning that it will come to pass
that they will at length betray themselves, no matter how they may be pretending that they have a
zeal for God's glory.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:14
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:14>2 Corinthians 11:14</verse></h3>



And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of (k) light.



(k) By light is meant the heavenly glory, of which the angels are partakers.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:16
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:16>2 Corinthians 11:16</verse></h3>




(7) I say again, Let no man think me a fool; if otherwise, yet as a fool receive me, that I may boast
myself a little.



(7) He goes forward boldly, and using a vehement irony or type of taunting, desires the Corinthians
to pardon him, if for a time he argues as a fool before them, who are wise, along with those other
wise ones, as he talks about those external things such as his stock, his ancestors, and valiant acts.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:20
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:20>2 Corinthians 11:20</verse></h3>




(8) For ye suffer, if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour [you], if a man take [of you], if a
man exalt himself, if a man smite you on the face.



(8) Before he comes to the matter, he talks directly to the Corinthians, who persuading themselves to
be very wise men, did not mark in the meanwhile that those false apostles had abused their
simplicity for advantage.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:21
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:21>2 Corinthians 11:21</verse></h3>

<page=3027>I speak as concerning (l) reproach, as though we had been (m) weak. Howbeit whereinsoever any is
bold, (I speak foolishly,) I am bold also.



(l) As if he said, "In respect of that reproach which they do to you, which surely is as evil as if they
beat you."



(m) Paul is called weak, in that he seems to be to the Corinthians a vile and abject man, a beggarly
craftsman, a most wretched and miserable idiot, whereas in reality God's mighty power was made
manifest in that.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:23
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:23>2 Corinthians 11:23</verse></h3>



Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I [am] (n) more; in labours more abundant, in stripes
above measure, in prisons more frequent, in (o) deaths oft.



(n) Paul being honourable indeed, defends his ministry openly, not for his own sake, but because he
saw his doctrine come into danger.



(o) In danger of present death.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:24
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:24>2 Corinthians 11:24</verse></h3>



Of the Jews (p) five times received I forty [stripes] save one.



(p) He alludes to that which is written in (<bcv=Deu 25:3>Deu 25:3</bcv>). And moreover this place shows us that Paul
suffered many more things which Luke omitted in writing Acts.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:25
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:25>2 Corinthians 11:25</verse></h3>




(q) Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I
have been in the deep;



(q) By the Roman magistrates.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:27
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:27>2 Corinthians 11:27</verse></h3>



In weariness and (r) painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold
and nakedness.



(r) Painfulness is a troublesome sickness, as when a man who is weary and wants rest is forced to
begin new labour.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:28
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:28>2 Corinthians 11:28</verse></h3>


<page=3028>(9) Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the
churches.



(9) He further adds this in conclusion, that the Corinthians should be ashamed to despise him upon
whose care almost all churches depended, as it was plainly seen by experience.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 11:30
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 11:30>2 Corinthians 11:30</verse></h3>




(10) If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities.



(10) He turns that against the adversaries which they objected against him: as if he should say, "They
allege my calamities to take away my authority from me: but if I would boast myself, I could use no
better argument. And God himself is my witness that I am not making up or forging anything."

<h2>2 Corinthians 12</h2>

#BCV:2 Corinthians 12:1
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 12:1>2 Corinthians 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=3029>It (1) is not expedient for me doubtless to glory. I will come to visions and revelations of the Lord.



(1) He continues in his purpose, and because those braggarts boasted of revelations, he reckons up
those things which lift him up above the common capacity of men. But he uses a preface, and
prudently excuses himself.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 12:2
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 12:2>2 Corinthians 12:2</verse></h3>



I knew a man (a) in Christ above fourteen years ago, (whether in the body, I cannot tell; or whether
out of the body, I cannot tell: God knoweth;) such an one caught up to the (b) third heaven.



(a) I speak this in Christ, that is, it is spoken without boastfulness, for I seek nothing but Christ Jesus
only.



(b) Into the highest heaven: for we do not need to dispute subtly upon the word "third". But yet this
passage is to be marked against those who would make heaven to be everywhere.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 12:4
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 12:4>2 Corinthians 12:4</verse></h3>



How that he was caught up into (c) paradise, and heard (d) unspeakable words, which it is not (e)
lawful for a man to utter.



(c) So the Greeks name that which we call a park, that is to say, a place where trees are planted, and
wild beasts kept. And those that translated the Old Testament out of Hebrew into Greek, called the
garden of Eden by this name, into which Adam was put immediately after his creation, as a most
delicate and pleasant place. And from this it occurred that the blessed seat of the glory of God is
called by that name.



(d) Which no man is able to utter.



(e) Which the saints themselves are not by any means able to express, because it is God himself. This
is the way that Clement of Alexandria explains this passage, Strom. 5.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 12:5
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 12:5>2 Corinthians 12:5</verse></h3>




(2) Of such an one will I glory: yet of myself I will not glory, but in mine infirmities.



(2) To remove all suspicion of seeking glory, he witnesses that he brags not of those things as
though they were of himself, but as outside of himself. And yet nonetheless he pretends nothing,
lest by this occasion other men should attribute to him more than he indeed is: and therefore he
would rather glory in his miseries.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 12:7
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 12:7>2 Corinthians 12:7</verse></h3>


<page=3030>(3) And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was
given to me (f) a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of (g) Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted
above measure.



(3) An excellent doctrine: why God will have even his best servants to be vexed by Satan, and by
every type of temptations: that is, lest they should be too much puffed up, and also that they may be
made perfect by being continually exercised in them.



(f) He means sinful lust, that sticks fast in us as it were a thorn, to such a degree that it forced Paul
himself who was regenerated to cry out, "I do not that good that I would", etc. And he calls it a
thorn by a metaphor taken from thorns, or stumps, which are very dangerous and harmful for the
feet, if a man walks through woods that are cut down.



(g) Which sets those lusts on fire.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 12:8
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 12:8>2 Corinthians 12:8</verse></h3>



For this thing I besought the Lord (h) thrice, that it might depart from me.



(h) Often.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 12:9
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 12:9>2 Corinthians 12:9</verse></h3>



And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. (4)
Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may (i) rest upon
me.




(4) He concludes that he will only set his miseries against the vain braggings of the false apostles,
and with this also excuses himself, because by their troublesome braggings he was forced to speak as
much of those things as he did. That is, because if his apostleship were subverted, his doctrine
would necessarily fall.



(i) That I might feel the power of Christ more and more: for the weaker that our tabernacles are, the
more does Christ's power appear in them.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 12:10
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 12:10>2 Corinthians 12:10</verse></h3>



Therefore I take (k) pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses
for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.



(k) I do not only take them patiently and with a good heart, but I also take great pleasure in them.

#BCV:2 Corinthians 12:11
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 12:11>2 Corinthians 12:11</verse></h3>


I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: (5) for I ought to have been commended of
you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing.



(5) Again he makes the Corinthians witnesses of those things by which God had sealed his
apostleship among them, and again he declares by certain arguments how far he is from all
covetousness, and also how he is affectionate towards them.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 12:12
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 12:12>2 Corinthians 12:12</verse></h3>



Truly the (l) signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and
mighty deeds.



(l) The arguments by which it may well appear that I am indeed an apostle of Jesus Christ.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 12:13
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 12:13>2 Corinthians 12:13</verse></h3>



For what is it wherein ye were inferior to other churches, except [it be] that I myself was not (m)
burdensome to you? forgive me this wrong.



(m) I was not slothful with my own hands, so that I might not be burdensome to you.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 12:16
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 12:16>2 Corinthians 12:16</verse></h3>




(6) But be it so, I did not burden you: nevertheless, being crafty, I caught you with guile.



(6) He sets aside another most grievous slander, that is, that he did subtly and by others make his
gain and profit of them.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 12:19
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 12:19>2 Corinthians 12:19</verse></h3>




(7) Again, think ye that we excuse ourselves unto you? we speak before God in (n) Christ: but [we do]
all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying.



(7) He concludes that he does not write these things to them as though he needed to defend himself,
for he is guilty of nothing: but because it is appropriate for them to doubt nothing of his fidelity,
who instructed them.



(n) As it becomes him to speak truly and sincerely, that professes himself to be in Christ, that is to
say, to be a Christian.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 12:20
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 12:20>2 Corinthians 12:20</verse></h3>


<page=3032>(8) For I fear, lest, when I come, I shall not find you such as I would, and [that] I shall be found unto
you such as ye would not: lest [there be] debates, envyings, wraths, strifes, backbitings, whisperings,
swellings, tumults:



(8) Having confirmed his authority to them, he rebukes them sharply, and threatens them also like
an apostle, showing that he will not spare them from now on, unless they repent, seeing that this is
the third time that he has warned them.

<h2>2 Corinthians 13</h2>

#BCV:2 Corinthians 13:3
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 13:3>2 Corinthians 13:3</verse></h3>


<page=3033>(1) Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is (a) mighty
in you.



(1) A most sharp reprehension, because, while they despise the apostle's admonitions, they tempt
Christ's own patience: and also while they condemn him as wretched and miserable, they lay nothing
against him, which is not common to him with Christ.



(a) And will be most mighty to be avenged upon you, when need will be.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 13:4
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 13:4>2 Corinthians 13:4</verse></h3>



For though he was crucified through (b) weakness, yet he liveth by the power of God. For we also
are weak in him, but we shall live with him by the power of God toward you.



(b) Regarding that base form of a servant which he took upon him when he abased himself.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 13:5
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 13:5>2 Corinthians 13:5</verse></h3>




(2) Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own
selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?



(2) He confirms that which he spoke about the power of God appearing in his ministry, and he
gathers by the mutual relation between the people's faith and the minister's preaching, that they must
either reverence his apostleship, upon whose doctrine their faith is grounded, or they must condemn
themselves of infidelity, and must confess themselves not to be of Christ's body.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 13:6
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 13:6>2 Corinthians 13:6</verse></h3>




(3) But I trust that ye shall know that we are not reprobates.



(3) He appeases that sharpness, trusting that they will show themselves towards their faithful apostle,
able and willing to be taught. And he also adds this, that he does not seek his own fame and
estimation, so that they may serve their saviour, which is the only mark that he shoots at.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 13:7
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 13:7>2 Corinthians 13:7</verse></h3>



Now I pray to God that ye do no evil; not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do
that which is honest, though we be as (c) reprobates.



(c) In men's judgment.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 13:9
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 13:9>2 Corinthians 13:9</verse></h3>

<page=3034>For we are glad, when we are weak, and ye are strong: and this also we wish, [even] your (d)
perfection.



(d) That all things may be in good order among you, and the members of the church restored into
their place, which have been shaken and are out of place.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 13:11
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 13:11>2 Corinthians 13:11</verse></h3>




(4) Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the
God of love and peace shall be with you.



(4) A brief exhortation, but yet such a one as comprehends all the parts of a Christian man's life.
#BCV:2 Corinthians 13:12
<h3><verse=2 Corinthians 13:12>2 Corinthians 13:12</verse></h3>




(5) Greet one another with an holy kiss.



(5) He salutes them familiarly, and in conclusion wishes well to them.

<h1>Galatians</h1>


<h2>Galatians 1</h2>

#BCV:Galatians 1:1
<h3><verse=Galatians 1:1>Galatians 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=3035>Paul, (1) an apostle, (not (a) of men, neither by (b) man, but by (c) Jesus Christ, and God the Father,
who raised him from the dead;)



(1) A salutation which puts in a few words the sum of the apostle's doctrine, and also immediately
from the beginning shows the gravity appropriate for the authority of an apostle, which he had to
maintain against the false apostles.



(a) He shows who is the author of the ministry generally: for in this the whole ministry agrees, that
whether they are apostles, or shepherds, or teachers, they are appointed by God.



(b) He mentions that man is not the instrumental cause: for this is a special right of the apostles, to
be called directly from Christ.



(c) Christ no doubt is man, but he is also God, and head of the Church, and in this respect to be
exempted out of the number of men.
#BCV:Galatians 1:4
<h3><verse=Galatians 1:4>Galatians 1:4</verse></h3>




(2) Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil (d) world,
according to the will of God and our Father:



(2) The sum of the true Gospel is this, that Christ by his offering alone saves us who are chosen out
of the world, by the free decree of God the Father.



(d) Out of that most corrupt state which is without Christ.
#BCV:Galatians 1:6
<h3><verse=Galatians 1:6>Galatians 1:6</verse></h3>

(3) I marvel that ye are so soon (e) removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto
another gospel:

(3) The first part of the epistle, in which he witnesses that he is an apostle, nothing inferior to those
chief disciples of Christ, and wholly agreeing with them, whose names the false apostles abused.
And he begins with chiding, reproving them of unsteadiness, because they gave ear so easily to those
who perverted them and drew them away to a new gospel.



(e) He uses the passive voice to cast the fault upon the false apostles, and he uses the present voice
to show them that it was not completely done, but in the process of being done.
#BCV:Galatians 1:7
<h3><verse=Galatians 1:7>Galatians 1:7</verse></h3>


<page=3036>(4) Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would (f) pervert the gospel of
Christ.

(4) He warns them in time to remember that there are not many Gospels; and therefore whatever
these false apostles pretend who had the Law, Moses, and the fathers in their mouths, yet these ones
had indeed corrupted the true Gospel. And he himself, indeed, also the very angels themselves (and
therefore much more these false apostles) ought to be held accursed, if they go about to change the
least thing that may be in the Gospel that he delivered to them before.

(f) For there is nothing more contrary to faith or free justification, than justification by the Law or
by deeds.

#BCV:Galatians 1:8
<h3><verse=Galatians 1:8>Galatians 1:8</verse></h3>

But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have
preached unto you, let him be (g) accursed.

(g) See (<bcv=Rom 9:3>Rom 9:3</bcv>).
#BCV:Galatians 1:10
<h3><verse=Galatians 1:10>Galatians 1:10</verse></h3>

(5) For do I now persuade (h) men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I
should not be the servant of Christ.

(5) A confirmation taken both from the nature of the doctrine itself, and also from the manner
which he used in teachings. For neither, he says, did I teach those things which pleased men, as these
men do who put part of salvation in external things, and works of the Law, neither went I about to
procure any man's favour. And therefore the matter itself shows that that doctrine which I delivered
to you is heavenly.

(h) He refers to the false apostles, who had nothing but flattery in their mouths for men, and he,
though he would not detract from the apostles, preaches God, and not to please men.
#BCV:Galatians 1:11
<h3><verse=Galatians 1:11>Galatians 1:11</verse></h3>


(6) But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man.


(6) A second argument to prove that his doctrine is heavenly, because he had it from heaven, from
Jesus Christ himself, without any man's help, in which he excels those whom Christ taught here on
earth after the manner of men.
#BCV:Galatians 1:12
<h3><verse=Galatians 1:12>Galatians 1:12</verse></h3>

(i) This passage is about an extraordinary revelation, for otherwise the Son revealed his Gospel only
by his Spirit, even though by the ministry of men, which Paul excludes here.

#BCV:Galatians 1:13
<h3><verse=Galatians 1:13>Galatians 1:13</verse></h3>

(7) For ye have heard of my conversation in time past in the Jews' religion, how that beyond
measure I persecuted the church of God, and wasted it:

(7) He proves that he was extraordinarily taught by Christ himself, by this history of his former life,
which the Galatians themselves knew well enough. For, he says, it is well known in what school I
was brought up, even from my childhood, that is, among the deadly enemies of the Gospel. And no
man may raise a frivolous objection and say that I was a scholar of the Pharisees in name only, and
not in deed, for no man is ignorant of how I excelled in Pharisaism, and was suddenly changed from
a Pharisee to an apostle of the Gentiles, so that I had no time to be instructed by men.

#BCV:Galatians 1:14
<h3><verse=Galatians 1:14>Galatians 1:14</verse></h3>

And profited in the Jews' religion above many my equals in mine own nation, being more
exceedingly zealous of the (k) traditions of my fathers.

(k) He calls them the traditions of his fathers, because he was not only a Pharisee himself, but also
had a Pharisee for his father.

#BCV:Galatians 1:15
<h3><verse=Galatians 1:15>Galatians 1:15</verse></h3>

But when it pleased God, who (l) separated me from my mother's womb, and called [me] by his
grace,

(l) He speaks of God's everlasting predestination, by which he appointed him to be an apostle, of
which he makes three distinctions: the everlasting council of God, his appointing from his mother's
womb, and his calling. And we see that there is no mention at all of foreseen works.

#BCV:Galatians 1:16
<h3><verse=Galatians 1:16>Galatians 1:16</verse></h3>

To reveal his Son (m) in me, that I might preach him among the heathen; immediately (8) I
conferred not with (n) flesh and blood:

(m) To me, and this is a type of speech which the Hebrews use, by which it shows us that this gift
comes from God. (8) He says this because it might be objected that he was indeed called by Christ in
the way, but afterward was instructed by the apostles and others (whose names, as I said before, the
false apostles abused to destroy his apostleship), as though he delivered another Gospel than they
<page=3038>did, and as though he were not of their number, who are to be credited without exception.

Therefore, Paul answers that he began immediately after his calling to preach the Gospel at
Damascus and in Arabia, and was not from that time in Jerusalem except for fifteen days, when he
saw only Peter and James. And afterwards, he began to teach in Syria and Cilicia, with the consent
and approval of the churches of the Jews, who knew him only by name: so far off was it, that he
was there instructed by men.

(n) With any man in the world.

#BCV:Galatians 1:20
<h3><verse=Galatians 1:20>Galatians 1:20</verse></h3>

Now the things which I write unto you, behold, (o) before God, I lie not.



(o) This is a type of an oath.
#BCV:Galatians 1:23
<h3><verse=Galatians 1:23>Galatians 1:23</verse></h3>



But they had heard only, That he which persecuted us in times past now preacheth the (p) faith
which once he destroyed.



(p) The doctrine of faith.

<h2>Galatians 2</h2>

#BCV:Galatians 2:1
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:1>Galatians 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=3039>Then (1) fourteen years after I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, and took Titus with [me]
also.



(1) Now he shows how he agrees with the apostles, with whom he grants that he conferred
concerning his Gospel which he taught among the Gentiles, fourteen years after his conversion. And
they permitted it in such a way, that they did not force his companion Titus to be circumcised,
although some tormented themselves in this, who traitorously laid wait against him, but in vain.
Neither did they add the least amount that might be to the doctrine which he had preached, but
rather they gave to him and Barnabas the right hand of fellowship, and acknowledged them as
apostles appointed by the Lord to the Gentiles.
#BCV:Galatians 2:2
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:2>Galatians 2:2</verse></h3>



And I went up by revelation, and communicated unto them that gospel which I preach among the
Gentiles, but privately to them which were of reputation, lest by any means I should run, or had run,



(a) in vain.



(a) Unfruitful, for as touching his doctrine, Paul does not doubt it, but because there were certain
reports being spread about him, that he was of another opinion than the rest of the apostles were,
which thing might have hindered the course of the Gospel. Therefore he labours to remedy this
dangerous situation.
#BCV:Galatians 2:4
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:4>Galatians 2:4</verse></h3>



And that because of (b) false brethren unawares brought in, who came in privily to spy out our
liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they might bring us into bondage:



(b) Who by deceit and counterfeit holiness crept in among the faithful.
#BCV:Galatians 2:5
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:5>Galatians 2:5</verse></h3>



To whom we gave place by (c) subjection, no, not for an hour; that the (d) truth of the gospel might
continue with (e) you.



(c) By submitting ourselves to them, and betraying our own liberty.



(d) The true and sincere doctrine of the Gospel, which remained safe from being corrupted with
any of these men's false doctrines.



(e) Under the Galatian's name, he understands all nations.
#BCV:Galatians 2:7
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:7>Galatians 2:7</verse></h3>

<page=3040>But contrariwise, when they saw that the gospel of the (f) uncircumcision was committed unto me,
as [the gospel] of the circumcision [was] unto Peter;



(f) Among the Gentiles, as Peter had to preach it among the Jews.
#BCV:Galatians 2:9
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:9>Galatians 2:9</verse></h3>



And when James, Cephas, and John, who (g) seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given
unto me, they gave to me and Barnabas the right (h) hands of fellowship; that we [should go] unto
the heathen, and they unto the circumcision.



(g) Whom alone and only these men count for pillars of the Church, and whose name they abuse to
deceive you.



(h) They gave us their hand to show that we agreed wholly in the doctrine of the Gospel.
#BCV:Galatians 2:11
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:11>Galatians 2:11</verse></h3>



But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the (i) face, because he was to be blamed.



(i) Before all men.
#BCV:Galatians 2:12
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:12>Galatians 2:12</verse></h3>




(2) For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles: but when they were come,
he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them which were of the circumcision.



(2) Another most vehement proof of his apostleship, and also of that doctrine which he had
delivered concerning free justification by faith alone. And it was for this doctrine alone that he
reprehended Peter at Antioch, who offended in this, in that for the sake of a few Jews who came
from Jerusalem, he played the Jew, and offended the Gentiles who had believed.
#BCV:Galatians 2:13
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:13>Galatians 2:13</verse></h3>



And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was (k) carried away
with their dissimulation.



(k) By example rather than by judgment.
#BCV:Galatians 2:14
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:14>Galatians 2:14</verse></h3>

<page=3041>But when I saw that they walked not (l) uprightly according to the (m) truth of the gospel, I said
unto Peter before [them] all, If thou, being a Jew, livest after the manner of Gentiles, and not as do
the Jews, why (n) compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?



(l) Literally, "with a right foot", which he sets against halting and hypocrisy, which is a backwards
state.



(m) He calls the truth of the Gospel, both the doctrine itself, and also the use of doctrine, which we
call the practice.



(n) He says they were forced who lived as Jews by Peter's example.
#BCV:Galatians 2:15
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:15>Galatians 2:15</verse></h3>




(3) We [who are] Jews (o) by nature, and not (p) sinners of the Gentiles,



(3) The second part of this epistle, the state of which is this: we are justified by faith in Christ Jesus
without the works of the Law. Which thing he propounds in such a way, that first of all he meets
with an objection (for I also, he says, am a Jew, that no man may say against me that I am an enemy
to the Law), and afterward, he confirms it by the express witness of David.



(o) Even though we are Jews, yet we preach justification by faith, because we know without any
doubt that no man can be justified by the Law.



(p) So the Jews called the Gentiles, because they were strangers to God's covenant.
#BCV:Galatians 2:16
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:16>Galatians 2:16</verse></h3>



Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith (q) of Jesus Christ, even
we have believed in Jesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the
works of the law: for by the works of the law shall (r) no flesh be justified.



(q) In Jesus Christ.



(r) No man, and in this word "flesh" there is a great force, by which is meant that the nature of man
is utterly corrupt.
#BCV:Galatians 2:17
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:17>Galatians 2:17</verse></h3>




(4) But if, while (s) we seek to be justified by Christ, we ourselves also are found sinners, [is]
therefore Christ the minister of sin? God forbid.



(4) Before he goes any further, he meets with the objection which abhorred this doctrine of free
justification by faith, because, they say, men are by this means withdrawn from the performing of
good works. And in this sort is the objection: if sinners should be justified through Christ by faith
without the Law, Christ would approve sinners, and should as it were exhort them to sin by his
<page=3042>ministry. Paul answers that this conclusion is false, because Christ destroys sin in the believers: for so,
he says, do men flee to Christ through the terror and fear of the Law, that being acquitted from the
curse of the Law and justified they may be saved by him. And in addition he together begins in them
by little and little that strength and power of his which destroys sin: to the end that this old man
being abolished by the power of Christ crucified, Christ may live in them, and they may consecrate
themselves to God. Therefore if any man give himself to sin after he has received the Gospel, let
him not accuse Christ nor the Gospel, but himself, for he destroys the work of God in himself.



(s) He goes from justification to sanctification, which is another benefit we receive from Christ, if
we lay hold of him by faith.
#BCV:Galatians 2:19
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:19>Galatians 2:19</verse></h3>



For I through the law am dead to the (t) law, that I might live unto God.



(t) The Law that terrifies the conscience brings us to Christ, and he alone causes us to indeed die to
the Law, because by making us righteous, he takes away from us the terror of conscience. And by
sanctifying us, he causes the mortifying of lust in us, so that it cannot take such occasion to sin by
the restraint which the Law makes, as it did before; (<bcv=Rom 7:10-11>Rom 7:10-11</bcv>).
#BCV:Galatians 2:20
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:20>Galatians 2:20</verse></h3>



I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not (u) I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which
I now live in the (x) flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for
me.




(u) The same that I was before.



(x) In this mortal body.
#BCV:Galatians 2:21
<h3><verse=Galatians 2:21>Galatians 2:21</verse></h3>




(5) I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness [come] by the law, then Christ is dead (e)
in vain.



(5) The second argument taken from an absurdity: if men may be justified by the Law, then it was
not necessary for Christ to die.



(e) For there was no reason why he should do so.

<h2>Galatians 3</h2>

#BCV:Galatians 3:1
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:1>Galatians 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=3043>(1) O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, (a) before whose
eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?

(1) The third reason or argument taken of those gifts of the Holy Spirit, with which they were
endued from heaven after they had heard and believed the gospel by Paul's ministry. And seeing that
they were so evident to all men's eyes, that they were as it were graphic images, in which they might
behold the truth of the doctrine of the Gospel, just as much as if they had beheld with their eyes
Christ himself crucified, in whose only death they ought to have their trust, he marvels how it could
be that they could be so bewitched by the false apostles.

(a) Christ was laid before you so notably and so plainly that you had a graphic image of him as it
were represented before your eyes, as if he had been crucified before you.

#BCV:Galatians 3:2
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:2>Galatians 3:2</verse></h3>

(2) This only would I learn of you, Received ye the (b) Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing
of (c) faith?

(b) Those spiritual graces and gifts, which were a seal as it were to the Galatians that the Gospel
which was preached to them was true.

(c) Of the doctrine of faith.

#BCV:Galatians 3:3
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:3>Galatians 3:3</verse></h3>

(2) Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the (d) flesh?

(2) The fourth argument mixed with the former, and it is twofold. If the Law is to be joined with
faith, this were not to go forward, but backward, seeing that those spiritual gifts which were
bestowed upon you are more excellent than any that could proceed from yourselves. And moreover,
it would follow, that the Law is better than Christ, because it would perfect and bring complete that
which Christ alone began.

(d) By the "flesh" he means the ceremonies of the Law, against which he sets the Spirit, that is, the
spiritual working of the Gospel.

#BCV:Galatians 3:4
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:4>Galatians 3:4</verse></h3>

(4) Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if [it be] yet in vain.

(4) An exhortation by manner of reproach, so that they do not in vain suffer so many conflicts.

#BCV:Galatians 3:5
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:5>Galatians 3:5</verse></h3>

<page=3044>(5) He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, [doeth he it] by
the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

(5) He repeats the third argument which was taken of the effects, because he had included certain
other arguments along the way.

#BCV:Galatians 3:6
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:6>Galatians 3:6</verse></h3>

(6) Even as (e) Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.

(6) The fifth argument which is of great force, and has three grounds. The first, that Abraham was
justified by faith, that is, by free imputation of righteousness according to the promise apprehended
by faith.

(e) See (<bcv=Rom 4:1-25>Rom. 4:1-25).</bcv>

#BCV:Galatians 3:7
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:7>Galatians 3:7</verse></h3>

(7) Know ye therefore that they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham.

(7) The second, that the sons of Abraham must be esteemed and considered as his sons by faith.

#BCV:Galatians 3:8
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:8>Galatians 3:8</verse></h3>

(8) And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before
the gospel unto Abraham, [saying], In thee shall all nations be (f) blessed.

(8) The third, that all the people that believe are without exception included in the promise of the
blessing. A proof of the first and second grounds, from the words of Moses.

(f) Blessing in this place signifies the free promise by faith.

#BCV:Galatians 3:9
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:9>Galatians 3:9</verse></h3>

(9) So then they which be of faith are blessed (g) with faithful Abraham.

(9) The conclusion of the fifth argument: therefore as Abraham is blessed by faith, so are all his
children (that is to say, all the Gentiles that believe) blessed, that is to say, freely justified.

(g) With faithful Abraham, and not by faithful Abraham, to show us that the blessing comes not
from Abraham, but from him by whom Abraham and all his posterity is blessed.

#BCV:Galatians 3:10
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:10>Galatians 3:10</verse></h3>

every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them.

(10) The sixth argument, the conclusion of which is also in the former verse, taken from opposites,
is this: they are accursed who are of the works of the Law, that is to say, who consider their
righteousness to come from the performance of the Law. Therefore they are blessed who are of
faith, that is, those who have righteousness by faith.

(10) A proof of the former sentence or proposition, and the proposition of this argument is this:
cursed is he that does not fulfil the whole Law.

#BCV:Galatians 3:11
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:11>Galatians 3:11</verse></h3>

(11) But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, [it is] evident: for, The just shall live
by faith.

(11) The second proposition with the conclusion: but no man fulfils the Law. The conclusion
therefore is, that no man is justified by the Law, or, that all are accursed who seek righteousness by
the works of the Law. And there is added also this manner of proof of the second proposition, that
is, righteousness and life are attributed to faith. Therefore no man fulfils the Law.

#BCV:Galatians 3:12
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:12>Galatians 3:13</verse></h3>

(12) And the law is not of faith: but, The man that doeth them shall live in them.

(12) Here is a reason shown of the former conclusion: because the law promises life to all that keep
it, and therefore if it is kept, it justifies and gives life. But the scripture attributing righteousness and
life to faith takes it from the Law, seeing that faith justifies by imputation, and the Law by the
performing of the work.

#BCV:Galatians 3:13
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:13>Galatians 3:13</verse></h3>

(13) Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is
written, (h) Cursed [is] every one that hangeth on a tree:

(13) A preventing of an objection: how then can they be blessed whom the Lord pronounces to be
accused? Because Christ suffered the curse which the Law laid upon us, that we might be acquitted
from it.

(13) A proof of the answer by the testimony of Moses.

(h) Christ was accursed for us, because he bore the curse that was due to us, to make us partakers of
his righteousness.

#BCV:Galatians 3:14
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:14>Galatians 3:14</verse></h3>

<page=3046>(14) That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might
receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

(14) A conclusion of all that was said before in the handling of the fifth and sixth reasons, that is,
that both the Gentiles are made partakers of the free blessing of Abraham in Christ, and also that
the Jews themselves, of whose number the apostle counted himself to be, cannot obtain that
promised grace of the Gospel, which he calls the Spirit, except by faith. And the apostle applies the
conclusion in turn, both to the one and to the other, preparing himself a way to the next argument,
by which he declares that the one and only seed of Abraham, which is made of all peoples, cannot
be joined and grow up together in any other way but by faith in Christ.

#BCV:Galatians 3:15
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:15>Galatians 3:15</verse></h3>

(15) Brethren, I speak (i) after the manner of men; Though [it be] but a man's covenant, yet [if it be]
(k) confirmed, no man disannulleth, or addeth thereto.

(15) He puts forth two general rules before the next argument, which is the seventh in order. The
first is, that it is not lawful to break covenants and contracts which are justly made, and are according
to law among men, neither may anything be added to them. The other is, that God did so make a
covenant with Abraham, that he would gather together his children who consist both of Jews and
Gentiles into one body (as appears by that which has been said before). For he did not say, that he
would be the God of Abraham and of his "seeds" (which thing nonetheless should have been said,
if he had many and various seeds, such as the Gentiles on the one hand, and the Jews on the other)
but that he would be the God of Abraham, and of his "seed", as of one.

(i) I will use an example which is common among you, that you may be ashamed that you do not
give as much to God's covenant as you do to man's.

(k) Authenticated, as we say.

#BCV:Galatians 3:16
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:16>Galatians 3:16</verse></h3>

(16) Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but
as of one, And to thy seed, which is (l) Christ.

(16) He puts forth the sum of the seventh argument, that is, that both the Jews and the Gentiles
grow together in one body of the seed of Abraham, in Christ alone, so that all are one in Christ, as
it is afterward declared in (<bcv=Gal 3:28>Gal 3:28</bcv>).

(l) Paul does not speak of Christ's person, but of two peoples, who grew together in one, in Christ.

#BCV:Galatians 3:17
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:17>Galatians 3:17</verse></h3>

which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of
none effect.

(17) The eighth argument take by comparison, in this way: if a man's covenant (being authenticated)
is firm and strong, much more is God's covenant. Therefore the Law was not given to cancel the
promise made to Abraham with respect of Christ, that is to say, the end of which depended upon
Christ.

(m) Which pertained to Christ.

(17) An enlarging of that argument in this way: moreover and besides that the promise is of itself
firm and strong, it was also confirmed by virtue of being in place for a long time, that is, for 430
years, so that it could in no way be broken.

#BCV:Galatians 3:18
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:18>Galatians 3:18</verse></h3>

(18) For if the (n) inheritance [be] of the law, [it is] no more of promise: but God gave [it] to
Abraham by promise.

(18) An objection: we grant that the promise was not cancelled by the covenant of the Law, and
therefore we join the Law with the promise. No, the apostle says, these two cannot stand together,
that is, that the inheritance should both be given by the Law and also by promise, for the promise is
free. And from this it follows that the Law was not given to justify, for by that means the promise
would be broken.

(n) By this word "inheritance" is meant the right of the seed, which is, that God should be our God,
that is to say, that by virtue of the covenant that was made with faithful Abraham, we that are
faithful might by that means be blessed by God as well as Abraham.

#BCV:Galatians 3:19
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:19>Galatians 3:19</verse></h3>

(19) Wherefore then [serveth] the law? It was added because of (o) transgressions, (p) till the seed
should come to whom the promise was made; [and it was] (q) ordained by (r) angels in the hand
of a mediator.

(19) An objection which rises from the former answer: if the inheritance is not by the Law (in the
least way) then why was the Law given after the promise was made? In order, the apostle says, to
reprove men of sin, and so to teach them to look to Christ, in Whom at length that promise of
saving all people together should be fulfilled; the Law was not given in order to justify men.

(o) That men might understand by discovering their sins that they are only saved by the grace of
God, which he revealed to Abraham, and that in Christ.

<page=3048>(p) Until the partition wall was broken down, and that full seed sprang up, made of two peoples,
both of Jews and Gentiles. For by this word "seed" we may not understand Christ alone by himself,
but coupled and joined together with his body.

(19) A confirmation of the former answer taken from the manner and form of giving the Law: for it
was given by angels, striking a great terror into all, and by Moses a mediator coming between. Now
they that are one need no mediator, but they that are in any way separated, and that are at variance
one with another, do. Therefore the Law itself and the mediator were witnesses of the wrath of
God, and not that God would by this means reconcile men to himself and abolish the promise, or
add the Law to the promise.

(q) Commanded and given, or proclaimed.

(r) By the service and ministry.

#BCV:Galatians 3:20
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:20>Galatians 3:20</verse></h3>

(20) Now a mediator is not [a mediator] of one, but God is one.

(20) A taking away of an objection, lest any man might say that sometimes by consent of the parties
which have made a covenant, something is added to the covenant, or the former covenants are
broken. This, the apostle says, does not come to pass in God, who is always one, and the very same,
and like himself.

#BCV:Galatians 3:21
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:21>Galatians 3:21</verse></h3>

(21) [Is] the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given
which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law.

(21) The conclusion uttered by a manner of asking a question, and it is the same that was uttered
before in (<bcv=Gal 3:17>Gal 3:17</bcv>), but proceeding from another principle, so that the argument is new, and is this:
God is always like himself: therefore the Law was not given to abolish the promises. But it would
abolish them if it gave life, for by that means it would justify, and therefore it would abolish that
justification which was promised to Abraham and to his seed by faith. No, it was rather given to
bring to light the guiltiness of all men, to the end that all believers fleeing to Christ, might be freely
justified in him.

#BCV:Galatians 3:22
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:22>Galatians 3:22</verse></h3>

But the (s) scripture hath concluded (t) all under sin, that the (u) promise by faith of Jesus Christ
might be given to them that believe.

(s) By this word "scripture" he means the Law.

(t) All mankind, and whatever comes from mankind.

<page=3049>(u) In every one of these words, there lies an argument against the merits of works: for all these
words, promise, faith, Christ, might be given, to believers, are against meritorious works, and not one
of them can be included as a meritorious work.

#BCV:Galatians 3:23
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:23>Galatians 3:23</verse></h3>

(23) But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto (x) the faith which should
afterwards be revealed.

(23) Now there follows another handling of the second part of this epistle, the state of which was
this: although the Law (that is, the whole government of God's house according to the Law) does
not justify, is it therefore to be abolished, seeing that Abraham himself was circumcised, and his
posterity held still the use of Moses' Law? Paul affirms that it ought to be abolished, because it was
instituted for that end and purpose, that is should be as it were a schoolmaster, and keeper to the
people of God, until the promise indeed appeared, that is to say, Christ, and the Gospel manifestly
published with great efficacy by the Spirit.

(x) The reason why we were kept under the Law, is set down here.

#BCV:Galatians 3:26
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:26>Galatians 3:26</verse></h3>

(26) For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

(26) Because age does not change the condition of servants, he adds that we are free by condition,
and therefore, seeing we are out of our childhood, we have no more need of a keeper and
schoolmaster.

#BCV:Galatians 3:27
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:27>Galatians 3:27</verse></h3>

(27) For as many of you as have been (y) baptized into Christ have (z) put on Christ.

(27) Using the words "many of you", lest the Jews should think themselves free from the ordinance
of baptism, he pronounces that baptism is common to all believers, because it is a outward sign of
our delivery in Christ, to the Jews as well as to the Greeks, that by this means all may be truly one in
Christ, that is to say, that promised seed to Abraham, and inheritors of everlasting life.

(y) He sets forth baptism, as opposed to circumcision, which the false apostles bragged so much of.

(z) The Church must put on Christ, as it were a garment, and be covered with him, that it may be
thoroughly holy, and without blame.

#BCV:Galatians 3:28
<h3><verse=Galatians 3:28>Galatians 3:28</verse></h3>

<page=3050>(28) There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for
ye are all (a) one in Christ Jesus.

(a) You are all one: and so is this great union and conjunction signified.

<h2>Galatians 4</h2>

#BCV:Galatians 4:1
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:1>Galatians 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=3051>Now (1) I say, [That] the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be
lord of all;

(1) He declares by another twofold similitude, that which he said before concerning the keeper and
schoolmaster. For, he says, the Law (that is, the whole government of God's house according to the
Law) was as it were a tutor or overseer appointed for a time. And when that protection and
overseeing which was but for a time is ended, we would at length come to be at our own liberty, and
would live as children, and not as servants. Moreover, he shows along the way, that the governance
of the Law was as it were the basics, and as certain principles, in comparison with the doctrine of
the Gospel.
#BCV:Galatians 4:2
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:2>Galatians 4:2</verse></h3>



But is under tutors and governors (a) until the time appointed of the father.



(a) This is added because he that is always under a tutor or governor may hardly be considered a
freeman.
#BCV:Galatians 4:3
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:3>Galatians 4:3</verse></h3>



Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the (b) elements of the world:



(b) The Law is called elements, because by the Law God instructed his Church as it were by
elements, and afterward poured out his Holy Spirit most plentifully in the time of the Gospel.
#BCV:Galatians 4:4
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:4>Galatians 4:4</verse></h3>




(2) But when the (c) fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a (d) woman,
made under the law,



(2) He utters and declares many things at once, that is, that this tutorship was ended at his time, in
order that curious men may stop asking why the schoolmastership lasted so long. And moreover,
that we are not sons by nature, but by adoption, and that in the Son of God, who therefore took
upon him our flesh, that we might be made his brethren.



(c) The time is said to be full when all parts of it are past and ended, and therefore Christ could not
have come either sooner or later.



(d) He calls Mary a woman in respect of the sex, and not as the word is used in a contrary sense to a
virgin, for she remained a virgin still.
#BCV:Galatians 4:5
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:5>Galatians 4:5</verse></h3>

<page=3052>To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the (e) adoption of sons.



(e) The adoption of the sons of God is from everlasting, but is revealed and shown in the time
appointed for it.
#BCV:Galatians 4:6
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:6>Galatians 4:6</verse></h3>




(3) And because ye are sons, God hath (f) sent forth the (g) Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying,
Abba, Father.



(3) He shows that we are free and set at liberty in such a way that in the meantime we must be
governed by the Spirit of Christ, who while reigning in our hearts, may teach us the true service of
the Father. But this is not to serve, but rather to enjoy true liberty, as it is fitting for sons and heirs.



(f) By that which follows he gathers that which went before: for if we have his Spirit, we are his sons,
and if we are his sons, then we are free.



(g) The Holy Spirit, who is both of the Father, and of the Son. But there is a special reason why he
is called the Spirit of the Son, that is, because the Holy Spirit seals up our adoption in Christ, and
gives us a full assurance of it.
#BCV:Galatians 4:7
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:7>Galatians 4:7</verse></h3>



Wherefore thou art no more a (h) servant, but a son; and if a son, then an (i) heir of God through
Christ.



(h) The word "servant" is not taken here for one that lives in sin, which is appropriate for the
unfaithful, but for one that is yet under the ceremonies of the Law, which is proper to the Jews.



(i) Partaker of his blessings.
#BCV:Galatians 4:8
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:8>Galatians 4:8</verse></h3>




(4) Howbeit then, when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no gods.



(4) He applies the former doctrine to the Galatians, with a special rebuke: for in comparison with
them, the Jews might have pretended some excuse as men that were born and brought up in that
service of the Law. But seeing that the Galatians were taken and called out of idolatry to Christian
liberty, what pretence might they have to go back to those impotent and beggarly elements?
#BCV:Galatians 4:9
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:9>Galatians 4:9</verse></h3>

<page=3053>But now, after that ye have known God, or rather are known of God, how turn ye again to the weak
and (k) beggarly elements, whereunto ye desire (l) again to be in bondage?



(k) They are called impotent and beggarly ceremonies, being considered apart by themselves without
Christ: and again, by that means they gave good testimony that they were beggars in Christ, for
when men fall back from Christ to ceremonies, it is nothing else but to cast away riches and to
follow beggary.



(l) By going backward.
#BCV:Galatians 4:12
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:12>Galatians 4:12</verse></h3>




(5) Brethren, I beseech you, be as I [am]; for I [am] as ye [are]: ye have not injured me at all.



(5) He moderates and qualifies those things in which he might have seemed to have spoken
somewhat sharply, very skilfully and divinely declaring his good will toward them in such a way, that
the Galatians could not but either be utterly hopeless when they read these things, or acknowledge
their own lack of steadfastness with tears, and desire pardon.
#BCV:Galatians 4:13
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:13>Galatians 4:13</verse></h3>



Ye know how through (m) infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first.



(m) Many afflictions.
#BCV:Galatians 4:14
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:14>Galatians 4:14</verse></h3>



And my (n) temptation which was in my flesh ye despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an
angel of God, [even] as (o) Christ Jesus.



(n) Those daily troubles with which the Lord tried me among you.



(o) For the sake of my ministry.
#BCV:Galatians 4:15
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:15>Galatians 4:15</verse></h3>




(p) Where is then the blessedness ye spake of ? for I bear you record, that, if [it had been] possible,
ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me.



(p) What a talk was there abroad in the world among men, how happy you were when you received
the gospel?
#BCV:Galatians 4:17
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:17>Galatians 4:17</verse></h3>

<page=3054>They zealously affect you, (q) [but] not well; yea, they would exclude you, (r) that ye might affect
them.

(q) For they are jealous over you for their own benefit.

(r) That they may transfer all your love from me to themselves.

#BCV:Galatians 4:18
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:18>Galatians 4:18</verse></h3>

But [it is] good to be (s) zealously affected always in [a] good [thing], and not only when I am
present with you.



(s) He sets his own true and good love, which he earnestly held for them, against the wicked vicious
love of the false apostles.

#BCV:Galatians 4:20
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:20>Galatians 4:20</verse></h3>

I desire to be present with you now, and to (t) change my voice; for I stand in doubt of you.

(t) Use other words among you.

#BCV:Galatians 4:21
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:21>Galatians 4:21</verse></h3>

(6) Tell me, ye that (u) desire to be under the law, do ye not hear the law?

(6) The false apostles urged this, that unless the Gentiles were circumcised Christ could profit them
nothing at all, and also this dissension of those who believed in the circumcision, against those who
believed in the uncircumcision, both these things being full of offence. Therefore the apostle, after
various arguments with which he has refuted their error, brings forth an allegory, in which he says
that the Holy Spirit did through symbolism let us know all these mysteries: that is, that it should
come to pass that two sorts of sons should have Abraham as a father common to them both, but
not with equal success. For as Abraham begat Ishmael by the common course of nature, of Hagar
his bondmaid and a stranger, and begat Isaac of Sara a free woman, by the virtue of the promise,
and by grace only, the first was not heir, and also persecuted the heir. So there are two covenants,
and as it were two sons born to Abraham by those two covenants, as it were by two mothers. The
one was made in Sinai, outside of the land of promise, according to which covenant Abraham's
children according to the flesh were begotten: that is, the Jews, who seek righteousness by that
covenant, that is, by the Law. But they are not heirs, and they will at length be cast out of the house,
as those that persecute the true heirs. The other was made in that high Jerusalem, or in Zion (that is,
by the sacrifice of Christ) which begets children of promise, that is, believers, by the power of the
Holy Spirit. And these children (like Abraham) do rest themselves in the free promise, and they
alone by the right of children will be partakers of the father's inheritance, whereas those servants
will be shut out.

<page=3055>(u) That desire so greatly.

#BCV:Galatians 4:23
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:23>Galatians 4:23</verse></h3>

But he [who was] of the bondwoman was born after the (x) flesh; but he of the freewoman [was] by
(y) promise.

(x) As all men are, and by the common course of nature.

(y) By virtue of the promise, which Abraham laid hold on for himself and his true seed, for
otherwise Abraham and Sara were past the begetting and bearing of children.

#BCV:Galatians 4:24
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:24>Galatians 4:24</verse></h3>



Which things are an allegory: for (z) these are the (a) two covenants; the one from the mount (b)
Sinai, which gendereth to bondage, which is Agar.



(z) These represent and symbolize.



(a) They are called two covenants, one of the Old Testament, and another of the New: which were
not two indeed, but in respect of the times, and the diversity of the manner of ruling.



(b) He makes mention of Sinai, because that covenant was made in that mountain, of which
mountain Hagar was a symbol.
#BCV:Galatians 4:25
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:25>Galatians 4:25</verse></h3>



For this Agar is mount Sinai in Arabia, and (c) answereth to Jerusalem which now is, and (d) is in
bondage with her children.



(c) Look how the case stands between Hagar and her children; even so stands it between Jerusalem
and hers.



(d) That is, Sinai.
#BCV:Galatians 4:26
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:26>Galatians 4:26</verse></h3>



But Jerusalem which is (e) above is free, which is the mother of us all.



(e) Which is excellent, and of great worth.
#BCV:Galatians 4:27
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:27>Galatians 4:27</verse></h3>




(7) For it is written, Rejoice, [thou] barren that bearest not; break forth and cry, thou that travailest
not: for the (f) desolate hath many more children than she which hath an husband.

<page=3056>(7) He shows that in this allegory he has followed the steps of Isaiah, who foretold that the Church
should be made and consist of the children of barren Sara, that is to say, of those who should be
made Abraham's children by faith, and this only spiritually, rather than of fruitful Hagar, even then
foretelling the casting off of the Jews, and the calling of the Gentiles.



(f) She that is destroyed and laid waste.

#BCV:Galatians 4:28
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:28>Galatians 4:28</verse></h3>

Now we, brethren, (g) as Isaac was, are the children of (h) promise.



(g) After the manner of Isaac, who is the first begotten of the heavenly Jerusalem, as Israel is of the
slavish synagogue.



(h) That seed to which the promise belongs.
#BCV:Galatians 4:29
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:29>Galatians 4:29</verse></h3>



But as then he that was born after the (i) flesh persecuted him [that was born] after the (k) Spirit,
even so [it is] now.



(i) By the common course of nature.



(k) By the virtue of God's promise and after a spiritual manner.
#BCV:Galatians 4:31
<h3><verse=Galatians 4:31>Galatians 4:31</verse></h3>




(8) So then, brethren, we are not children of the bondwoman, but of the free.



(8) The conclusion of the former allegory, that we by no means procure and call back again the
slavery of the Law, seeing that the children of the bondmaid will not be heirs.

<h2>Galatians 5</h2>

#BCV:Galatians 5:2
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:2>Galatians 5:2</verse></h3>


<page=3057>(1) Behold, I Paul say unto you, that if ye be (a) circumcised, Christ shall profit you nothing.



(1) Another entreaty in which he plainly witnesses that justification of works, and justification of
faith cannot stand together, because no man can be justified by the Law, but he that does fully and
perfectly fulfil it. And he takes the example of circumcision, because it was the ground of all the
service of the Law, and was chiefly urged by the false apostles.



(a) Circumcision is in other places called the seal of righteousness, but here we must have
consideration of the circumstance of the time, for now baptism is a sign of the new covenant, just
as circumcision was the sign of the old covenant. And moreover Paul reasons according to the
opinion that his enemies had of it, which made circumcision a essential to their salvation.
#BCV:Galatians 5:4
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:4>Galatians 5:4</verse></h3>



Christ is (b) become of no effect unto you, whosoever of you are (c) justified by the law; ye are
fallen from grace.



(b) That is, as he himself expounds it afterward, "ye are fallen from grace."



(c) That is, seek to be justified by the Law, for indeed no man is justified by the Law.
#BCV:Galatians 5:5
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:5>Galatians 5:5</verse></h3>




(2) For we through the (d) Spirit wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.



(2) He privately compares the new people with the old: for it is certain that they also did ground all
their hope of justification and life in faith, and not in circumcision, but in such a way that their faith
was wrapped in the external and ceremonial worship. But our faith is without such ceremony, and
content with spiritual worship.



(d) Through the Spirit who brings about faith.
#BCV:Galatians 5:6
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:6>Galatians 5:6</verse></h3>




(3) For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor (4) uncircumcision; (5) but (e)
faith which worketh by love.



(3) He adds a reason, for now circumcision is abolished, seeing that Christ is exhibited to us with
complete spiritual circumcision. (4) He makes mention also of uncircumcision, lest the Gentiles
should please themselves in it, as the Jews do in circumcision. (5) The taking away of an objection:
<page=3058>if all that worship of the Law is taken away, in what than shall we exercise ourselves? In charity, Paul
says: for faith of which we speak cannot be idle; no, it brings forth daily fruits of charity.



(e) So is true faith distinguished from counterfeit faith: for charity is not joined with faith as a fellow
cause, to help forward our justification with faith.
#BCV:Galatians 5:7
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:7>Galatians 5:7</verse></h3>




(6) Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?



(6) Again he chides the Galatians, but with both an admiration and a praise of their former race, so
that he may make them more ashamed.
#BCV:Galatians 5:8
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:8>Galatians 5:8</verse></h3>




(7) This persuasion [cometh] not of (f) him that calleth you.



(7) He plays the part of an apostle with them, and uses his authority, denying that any doctrine can
come from God which is contrary to his.



(f) Of God.
#BCV:Galatians 5:9
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:9>Galatians 5:9</verse></h3>




(8) A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.



(8) He adds this, that he may not seem to contend upon a trifle, warning them diligently (by a
metaphor which he borrows of leaven, as Christ himself also did) not to allow the purity of the
apostolic doctrine to be infected with the least corruption at all.
#BCV:Galatians 5:10
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:10>Galatians 5:10</verse></h3>




(9) I have confidence in you through the Lord, that ye will be none otherwise minded: but he that
troubleth you shall bear his judgment, whosoever he be.



(9) He moderates the former reprehension, casting the fault upon the false apostles, against whom
he denounces the horrible judgment of God.
#BCV:Galatians 5:11
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:11>Galatians 5:11</verse></h3>




(10) And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet suffer persecution? then is the
offence of the cross ceased.



(10) He wishes them to consider that he seeks not his own profit in this matter, seeing that he could
avoid the hatred of men if he would join Judaism with Christianity.
#BCV:Galatians 5:12
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:12>Galatians 5:12</verse></h3>


<page=3059>(11) I would they were even cut off which (g) trouble you.



(11) An example of a true pastor inflamed with the zeal of God's glory, and love for his flock.



(g) For those that preach the Law cause men's consciences to always tremble.
#BCV:Galatians 5:13
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:13>Galatians 5:13</verse></h3>



For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; (12) only [use] not liberty for an occasion to the flesh,
but by love serve one another.



(12) The third part of this epistle, showing that the right use of Christian liberty consists of this,
that being delivered and set at liberty from the slavery of sin and the flesh, and being obedient to the
Spirit, we should through love help each other to mature in their salvation.
#BCV:Galatians 5:14
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:14>Galatians 5:14</verse></h3>




(13) For (h) all the law is fulfilled in one word, [even] in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.



(13) He sets forth the love of our neighbour, as a mark unto which all Christians ought to refer all
their actions, and to that he cites the testimony of the Law.



(h) This particle "all" must be limited to the second table of the ten commandments.
#BCV:Galatians 5:15
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:15>Galatians 5:15</verse></h3>




(14) But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.



(14) An exhortation to the duties of charity, by the profit that follows from it, because no men
proved worse for themselves than they that hate one another.
#BCV:Galatians 5:16
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:16>Galatians 5:16</verse></h3>




(15) [This] I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.



(15) He acknowledges the great weakness of the godly, because they are but in part regenerated: but
he exhorts them to remember that they are endued with the Spirit of God, who has delivered them
from the slavery of sin, and so from the Law, inasmuch as it is the power of sin, so that they should
not give themselves to lusts.
#BCV:Galatians 5:17
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:17>Galatians 5:17</verse></h3>

<page=3060>For the (i) flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the
one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.



(i) For the flesh dwells even in the regenerated man, but the Spirit reigns, even though not without
great strife, as is largely set forth in (Rom. 7:1-25).
#BCV:Galatians 5:19
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:19>Galatians 5:19</verse></h3>




(16) Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are [these]; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness,
lasciviousness,



(16) He sets out that particularly of which he spoke generally, reckoning up some principal effects
of the flesh, and opposing them to the fruits of the Spirit, that no man may pretend ignorance.
#BCV:Galatians 5:22
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:22>Galatians 5:22</verse></h3>



But the (k) fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,



(k) Therefore they are not the fruits of free will, but only as far forth as our will is made free by
grace.
#BCV:Galatians 5:23
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:23>Galatians 5:23</verse></h3>



Meekness, temperance: (17) against such there is no law.



(17) Lest that any man should object that Paul plays the deceiver, as one who urging the Spirit urges
nothing but that which the Law commands, he shows that he requires not that literal and outward
obedience, but spiritual, which proceeds not from the Law but from the Spirit of Christ, who gives
us new birth, and must and ought to be the ruler and guider of our life.
#BCV:Galatians 5:25
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:25>Galatians 5:25</verse></h3>



If we (l) live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.



(l) If we are indeed endued with the quickening Spirit, who causes us to die to sin, and live to God,
let us show it in our deeds, that is, by holiness of life.
#BCV:Galatians 5:26
<h3><verse=Galatians 5:26>Galatians 5:26</verse></h3>




(18) Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.



(18) He adds special exhortations according as he knew the Galatians to be subject to different vices:
and first of all he warns them to take heed of ambition, which vice has two fellows, backbiting and
envy. And out of these two many contentions necessarily arise.

<h2>Galatians 6</h2>

#BCV:Galatians 6:1
<h3><verse=Galatians 6:1>Galatians 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=3061>Brethren, (1) if a man be (a) overtaken in a fault, ye which are (b) spiritual, (c) restore such an one in
the (d) spirit of meekness; (2) considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.



(1) He condemns persistent and pressing harshness, because brotherly reprehensions ought to be
moderated and tempered by the spirit of meekness.



(a) Through the malice of the flesh and the devil.



(b) Who are upheld by the power of God's Spirit.



(c) Labour to fill up that which is lacking in him.



(d) This is a metaphor which the Hebrews use, showing by this that all good gifts come from God.



(2) He touches the problem, for they are commonly the most severe judges who forget their own
weaknesses.
#BCV:Galatians 6:2
<h3><verse=Galatians 6:2>Galatians 6:2</verse></h3>

(3) Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the (e) law of Christ.

(3) He shows that this is the end of rebukes, to raise up our brother who is fallen, and not proudly
to oppress him. Therefore every one must seek to have praise of his own life by approving himself,
and not by rebuking others.

(e) Christ, in plain and clear words, calls the commandment of charity his commandment.
#BCV:Galatians 6:5
<h3><verse=Galatians 6:5>Galatians 6:5</verse></h3>

(4) For every man shall bear his own burden.

(4) A reason why men ought to carefully watch themselves not others, because every man will be
judged before God according to his own life, and not by comparing himself with other men.
#BCV:Galatians 6:6
<h3><verse=Galatians 6:6>Galatians 6:6</verse></h3>

(5) Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in (f) all good things.

(5) It is fitting that teachers should be helped by their students, as much as they are able.

(f) Of whatever he has according to his ability.

#BCV:Galatians 6:7
<h3><verse=Galatians 6:7>Galatians 6:7</verse></h3>

(6) He commends liberality towards the poor, and first of all chides those who were not ashamed to
pretend this and that, and all because they would not help their neighbours, as though they could
deceive God. And afterward he compares alms to a spiritual sowing which will have a most plentiful
harvest, so that it will be very profitable: and compares being a covetous miser to sowing carnally,
from which nothing can be gathered but such things as fade away, and eventually perish.
#BCV:Galatians 6:8
<h3><verse=Galatians 6:8>Galatians 6:8</verse></h3>

For he that soweth to his (g) flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit
shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

(g) To the commodities of this present life.

#BCV:Galatians 6:9
<h3><verse=Galatians 6:9>Galatians 6:9</verse></h3>

(7) And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

(7) Against those who are generous at the beginning, but do not continue, because the harvest seems
to be deferred a long time, as though the seed time and the harvest were simultaneous.

#BCV:Galatians 6:10
<h3><verse=Galatians 6:10>Galatians 6:10</verse></h3>

(8) As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all [men], especially unto them who are of
the household of faith.



(8) Those that are of the household of faith, that is, those who are joined with us in the profession
of one self same religion, ought to be preferred before all others, yet in such a way that our
generosity extends to all.
#BCV:Galatians 6:11
<h3><verse=Galatians 6:11>Galatians 6:11</verse></h3>




(9) Ye see how large a letter I have written unto you with mine own hand.



(9) The fourth and last part of the epistle, in which he returns to his principal end and purpose: that
is, that the Galatians should not allow themselves to be led out of the way by the false apostles. And
he points out what those false apostles are really like, reproving them of ambition, as men who do
not act because of any affection and zeal they have for the Law, but only for this purpose, that they
may purchase themselves favour amongst their own sort, by the circumcision of the Galatians.
#BCV:Galatians 6:12
<h3><verse=Galatians 6:12>Galatians 6:12</verse></h3>

<page=3063>As many as desire to make a (h) fair shew in (i) the flesh, they constrain you to be circumcised; only
lest they should suffer persecution for the (k) cross of Christ.



(h) He sets a fair show against the truth.



(i) In the keeping of ceremonies.



(k) For the preaching of him that was crucified.
#BCV:Galatians 6:13
<h3><verse=Galatians 6:13>Galatians 6:13</verse></h3>



For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law; but desire to have you circumcised,
that they may glory in (l) your flesh.



(l) That they have entangled you in Judaism, and yet he dwells on the aspect of circumcision.
#BCV:Galatians 6:14
<h3><verse=Galatians 6:14>Galatians 6:14</verse></h3>




(10) But God forbid that I should (m) glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the
world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.



(10) He does not dwell in comparing himself with them, showing that on the other hand he rejoices
in those afflictions which he suffers for Christ's sake, and as he is despised by the world, so does he
in the same way consider the world as wicked. And this is the true circumcision of a true Israelite.



(m) When Paul uses this word in good sense or way, it signifies to rest a man's self wholly in a thing,
and to content himself in it.
#BCV:Galatians 6:16
<h3><verse=Galatians 6:16>Galatians 6:16</verse></h3>



And as many as walk according to this rule, peace [be] on them, and mercy, and upon the (n) Israel
of God.



(n) Upon the true Israel, whose praise is from God and not from men; (<bcv=Rom 2:29>Rom 2:29</bcv>).
#BCV:Galatians 6:17
<h3><verse=Galatians 6:17>Galatians 6:17</verse></h3>




(11) From henceforth let no man trouble me: for I bear in my body the (o) marks of the (p) Lord
Jesus.



(11) Continuing still in the same metaphor, he opposes his miseries and the marks of those stripes
which he bore for Christ's sake, against the scar of the outward circumcision, as a true mark of his
apostleship.



(o) Marks which are burnt into a man's flesh, as they used to do in ancient times, to mark their
servants that had run away from them.

<page=3064>(p) For it very important whose marks we bear: for the cause makes the martyr, and not the
punishment.
#BCV:Galatians 6:18
<h3><verse=Galatians 6:18>Galatians 6:18</verse></h3>




(12) Brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with your (q) spirit. Amen. "[To [the]
Galatians written from Rome.]"



(12) Taking his farewell of them, he wishes them grace, and the Spirit against the deceits of the false
apostles, who labour to beat those outward things into their brains.



(q) With your minds and hearts.

<h1>Ephesians</h1>


<h2>Ephesians 1</h2>

#BCV:Ephesians 1:1
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:1>Ephesians 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=3065>Paul, (1) an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, to the saints which are at Ephesus, and to the



(a) faithful in Christ Jesus:



(1) The inscription and salutation, of which we have spoken in the former epistles.



(a) This is the definition of the saints, showing what they are.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:3
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:3>Ephesians 1:3</verse></h3>




(2) Blessed [be] the God (3) and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, (4) who hath blessed us with (b) all
spiritual blessings in (c) heavenly [places] in (5) Christ:



(2) The first part of the epistle, in which he handles all the parts of our salvation, setting forth the
example of the Ephesians. And he uses various exhortations, and begins after his manner with
thanksgiving. (3) The efficient cause of our salvation is God, not considered generally, but as the
Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. (4) The next final cause, and in respect of us, is our salvation, all
things being bestowed upon us which are necessary to our salvation, which type of blessings is
heavenly and proper to the elect.



(b) With every type of gracious and bountiful goodness which is heavenly indeed, and from God
alone.



(c) Which God our Father gave us from his high throne from above: or because the saints have
those gifts bestowed on them, which belong properly to the citizens of heaven. (5) The matter of
our salvation is Christ, in whom alone we are endued with spiritual blessing and that to salvation.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:4
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:4>Ephesians 1:4</verse></h3>




(6) According as he hath chosen us in (d) him before the foundation of the world, (7) that we (e)
should (f) be holy and without blame (g) before him in love:



(6) He declares the efficient cause, or by what means God the Father saves us in his Son: because, he
says, he chose us from everlasting in his Son.



(d) To be adopted in him. (7) He expounds the next final cause which is twofold, that is,
sanctification and justification, of which he will speak later. And by this also two things are to be
noted, that is, that holiness of life cannot be separated from the grace of election: and again,
whatever pureness is in us, is the gift of God who has freely of his mercy chosen us.

<page=3066>(e) God then, did not choose us because we were, or otherwise would have been holy, but to the end
we should be holy.



(f) Being clothed with Christ's righteousness.



(g) Truly and sincerely.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:5
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:5>Ephesians 1:5</verse></h3>




(8) Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ (h) to himself, according
to the good pleasure of his will,



(8) Another plainer exposition of the efficient cause, and also of eternal election, by which God is
said to have chosen us in Christ, that is, because it pleased him to appoint us when we were not yet
born, whom he would make to be his children by Jesus Christ. So that there is no reason for our
election to be looked for here, except in the free mercy of God. And neither is faith which God
foresaw the cause of our predestination, but the effect.



(h) God respects nothing, either anything that is present, or anything that is to come, but himself
only.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:6
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:6>Ephesians 1:6</verse></h3>




(9) To the (i) praise of the glory of his grace, (10) wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.



(9) The uttermost and chiefest final cause is the glory of God the Father, who saves us freely in his

<h1>Son.</h1>




(i) That as his bountiful goodness deserves all praise, so also it should be set forth and proclaimed.



(10) Another final cause more near is our justification, in that he freely accounted us as being
righteous in his Son.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:7
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:7>Ephesians 1:7</verse></h3>




(11) In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the
riches of his grace;



(11) An expounding of the material cause, how we are made acceptable to God in Christ, for it is he
alone whose sacrifice by the mercy of God is imputed to us, for the forgiveness of sins.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:8
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:8>Ephesians 1:8</verse></h3>




(12) (k) Wherein he hath abounded toward us in (l) all wisdom and prudence;

<page=3067>(12) Now he comes at length to the formal cause, that is to say, to vocation or preaching of the
Gospel, by which God executes that eternal counsel of our free reconciliation and salvation in
Christ. And putting in place of the Gospel all wisdom and understanding, he shows how excellent it

<h1>is.</h1>




(k) By which gracious goodness and bountifulness.



(l) In perfect and sound wisdom.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:9
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:9>Ephesians 1:9</verse></h3>



Having made known unto us the (m) mystery of his will, (13) according to his good pleasure which
he hath purposed in himself:



(m) For unless the Lord had opened to us that mystery, we could never have so much as dreamed of
it ourselves.



(13) Not only the election, but also the calling proceeds from grace alone.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:10
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:10>Ephesians 1:10</verse></h3>




(14) That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might (n) gather together in one all things in
Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; [even] in him:



(14) The Father exhibited and gave Christ, who is the head of all the elect to the world, at that time
which was convenient according as he most wisely disposed all times from everlasting. And Christ is
he in whom all the elect from the beginning of the world (otherwise wandering and separated from
God) are gathered together. And some of these elect were in heaven, when he came into the earth,
that is, those who by faith in him to come, were gathered together. And others being found upon the
earth were gathered together by him, and the rest are daily gathered together.



(n) The faithful are said to be gathered together in Christ, because they are joined together with him
through faith, and become as it were one man.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:11
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:11>Ephesians 1:11</verse></h3>




(15) In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of
him who worketh (o) all things after the counsel of his own will:



(15) He applies respectively the benefit of calling to the believing Jews, going back to the very source,
so that they also may not attribute their salvation either to themselves, nor to their stock, nor any
other thing, but only to the grace and mercy of God, both because they were called, and also
because they were first called.

<page=3068>(o) All things are attributed to the grace of God without exception, and yet for all that we are not
statues, for he gives us grace both to want, and to be able to do those things that are good; (<bcv=Philip 2:13>Phi 2:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Ephesians 1:12
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:12>Ephesians 1:12</verse></h3>



That we should be to the praise of his glory, who (p) first trusted in Christ.



(p) He speaks concerning the Jews.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:13
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:13>Ephesians 1:13</verse></h3>




(16) In whom ye also [trusted], after that ye heard the (q) word of truth, the gospel of your salvation:
in whom also after that ye believed, ye were (r) sealed with that holy (s) Spirit of promise,



(16) Now he makes the Ephesians (or rather all the Gentiles) equal to the Jews, because even though
they came last, being called by the same Gospel, they embraced faith, and were sealed up with the
same Spirit, who is the pledge of election, until the inheritance itself is seen. And this is so that in
them also the glory of God might shine forth and be manifested.



(q) That word which is truth indeed, because it comes from God.



(r) This is a metaphor taken of a seal, which being put on anything, distinguishes between those
things which are authentic, and those things which are not.



(s) With the Spirit, who does not bring the Law, but the promise of free adoption.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:14
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:14>Ephesians 1:14</verse></h3>



Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the (t) redemption of the purchased possession, unto
the praise of his glory.



(t) Full and perfect.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:15
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:15>Ephesians 1:15</verse></h3>




(17) Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints,



(17) He returns to the former account of the good received from God, concluding two things
together about those things that went before: the first is that all good things come to us from God
the Father in Christ, and by Christ, so that for them he may be praised by us. The second is, that all
those things (which he brings to two heads, that is, faith and charity) are increased in us by certain
degrees, so that we must desire an increase of his grace, from whom we have the beginning, and
from whom we hope for the end.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:17
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:17>Ephesians 1:17</verse></h3>

#BCV:eph 1:17
<h3><verse=eph 1:17>eph 1:17</verse></h3>



wisdom and revelation in the (x) knowledge of him:



(18) The causes of faith are God the Father enlightening our minds with his Holy Spirit, so that we
may embrace Christ revealed to us in the Gospel, to the obtaining of everlasting life, and the setting
forth of God's glory.



(u) Full of majesty.



(x) For it is not enough for us to have known God once, but we must know him every day more and
more.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:18
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:18>Ephesians 1:18</verse></h3>



The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the (y) hope of his
calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,



(y) What blessings they are which he calls you to hope for, whom he calls to Christ.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:19
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:19>Ephesians 1:19</verse></h3>




(19) And what [is] the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the
working of his mighty power,



(19) The excellency of faith is declared by the effects, because the mighty power of God is set forth
and shown in them.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:20
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:20>Ephesians 1:20</verse></h3>




(20) Which he wrought in Christ, when he raised him from the dead, and set [him] at his own (z)
right hand in the heavenly [places],



(20) The apostle wishes us to behold in our most glorious Christ (with the eyes of faith) that most
excellent power and glory of God, of which all the faithful are partakers, even though it is as yet
very dim in us, by reason of the shame of the cross, and the weakness of the flesh.



(z) To be set on God's right hand is to be a partaker of the sovereignty which he has over all
creatures.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:21
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:21>Ephesians 1:21</verse></h3>



Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every (a) name that is named,
not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

<page=3070>(a) Everything, whatever it may be, or above all things, even if they are of ever so much power or
excellency.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:22
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:22>Ephesians 1:22</verse></h3>




(21) And hath put all [things] under his feet, and gave him [to be] the (b) head over all [things] to the
church,



(21) So that we should not think that the excellent glory of Christ is a thing with which we have
nothing to do, he witnesses that Christ was appointed by God the Father as head over all the Church,
and therefore the body must be joined to this head, which otherwise would be a maimed thing,
without the members. However, this is not because of necessity (seeing that it is rather the Church
which is made alive and sustained by the holy power of Christ, so it is far from being true that he
needs the fulness of it), but because of the infinite goodwill and pleasure of God, who condescends
to join us to his Son.



(b) Insomuch that there is nothing that is not subject to him.
#BCV:Ephesians 1:23
<h3><verse=Ephesians 1:23>Ephesians 1:23</verse></h3>



Which is his body, the (c) fulness of him that filleth all in all.



(c) For the love of Christ is so great towards the Church, that even though he fully satisfies all with
all things, yet he considers himself but a maimed and unperfect head, unless he has the Church
joined to him as his body.

<h2>Ephesians 2</h2>

#BCV:Ephesians 2:1
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:1>Ephesians 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=3071>And (1) you [hath he quickened], who were (a) dead in (2) trespasses and sins;



(1) He declares again the greatness of God's good will by comparing that miserable state in which
we are born, with that dignity unto which we are advanced by God the Father in Christ. So he
describes that condition in such a way that he says, that with regard to spiritual motions we are not
only born half dead, but wholly and altogether dead.



(a) See (<bcv=Rom 6:2>Rom 6:2</bcv>). So then he calls those dead who are not regenerated: for as the immortality of
those who are damned is not life, so this knitting together of body and soul is properly not life, but
death in those who are not ruled by the Spirit of God. (2) He shows the cause of death, that is, sins.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:2
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:2>Ephesians 2:2</verse></h3>




(3) Wherein in time past ye walked (4) according to the course of this world, (b) according to the
prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now (5) worketh in the (c) children of disobedience:



(3) He proves by the effects that all were spiritually dead. (4) He proves this evil to be universal,
insomuch that all are slaves of Satan.



(b) At the pleasure of the prince. (5) Men are therefore slaves to Satan, because they are willingly
rebellious against God.



(c) They are called the children of disobedience, who are given to disobedience.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:3
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:3>Ephesians 2:3</verse></h3>




(6) Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our (d) flesh,
fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and (7) were by nature the (e) children of wrath,
even as (f) others.



(6) After he has separately condemned the Gentiles, he confesses that the Jews (among whom he
numbers himself) are not the least bit better.



(d) By the name of flesh in the first place, he means the whole man, which he divides into two parts:
into the flesh, which is the part that the philosophers consider to be without reason, and into the
thought, which they call reasonable. And so he leaves nothing in man half dead, but concludes that
the whole man is by nature the son of wrath. (7) The conclusion: all men are born subject to the
wrath and curse of God.



(e) Men are said to be the children of wrath passively, that is to say, guilty of everlasting death by the
judgment of God, who is angry with them.

<page=3072>(f) Profane people who did not know God.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:4
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:4>Ephesians 2:4</verse></h3>




(8) But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,



(8) Now from this follows another member of the comparison declaring our excellency, that is, that
by the power of Christ we are delivered from that death, and made partakers of eternal life, to the
end that at length we may reign with him. And by various and different means he emphasises this,
that the efficient cause of this benefit is the free mercy of God: and Christ himself is the material
cause: and faith is the instrument, which also is the free gift of God: and the end is God's glory.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:6
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:6>Ephesians 2:6</verse></h3>



And hath raised [us] up (g) together, and made [us] sit together in heavenly [places] in Christ Jesus:



(g) That is, as he adds afterwards, in Christ, for as yet this is not fulfilled in us, but only in our head
by whose Spirit we have begun to die to sin, and live to God, until that work is fully brought to an
end. And yet the hope is certain, for we are as sure of that which we look for, as we are of that
which we have already received.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:8
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:8>Ephesians 2:8</verse></h3>



For by (h) grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: [it is] the gift of God:



(h) So then, grace, that is to say, the gift of God, and faith, stand with one another, to which two it is
contrary to be saved by ourselves, or by our works. Therefore, what do those mean who would join
together things of such contrary natures?
#BCV:Ephesians 2:9
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:9>Ephesians 2:9</verse></h3>




(9) Not of works, lest any man should boast.



(9) He specifically and completely takes away from our works the praise of justification, seeing that
the good works themselves are the effects of grace in us.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:10
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:10>Ephesians 2:10</verse></h3>



For we are (i) his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before
ordained that we should walk in them.



(i) He speaks here of grace, and not of nature: therefore if the works are ever so good, see what
they are, and know that they are that way because of grace.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:11
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:11>Ephesians 2:11</verse></h3>


<page=3073>(10) Wherefore remember, that ye [being] in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are (k) called
Uncircumcision by that which is (l) called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;



(10) Applying the former doctrine to the Gentiles, he shows that they were not only as the Jews by
nature, but also after a special manner, strangers and without God. Therefore they ought so much
the more remember that same so great a benefit of God.



(k) You were called in no other state than as Gentiles, so that all the world might witness your
uncleanness.



(l) Of the Jews who were known by you by the mark of circumcision, the mark of the covenant.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:12
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:12>Ephesians 2:12</verse></h3>



That at that time ye were (m) without Christ, being (n) aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and
strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:



(m) He begins first with Christ, who was the end of all the promises.



(n) You had no right or title to the commonwealth of Israel.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:13
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:13>Ephesians 2:13</verse></h3>




(11) But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.



(11) Christ is the only bond of the Jews and Gentiles, by whom they are reconciled to God.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:14
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:14>Ephesians 2:14</verse></h3>




(12) For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of
partition [between us];



(12) As by the ceremonies and worship appointed by the Law, the Jews were divided from the
Gentiles, so now Christ, having broken down the partition wall, joins them both together, both in
himself, and between themselves, and to God. From which it follows, that whoever permanently
establishes the ceremonies of the Law, makes the grace of Christ void and of no effect.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:16
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:16>Ephesians 2:16</verse></h3>



And that he might reconcile both unto God in (o) one body by the cross, having (p) slain the enmity
thereby:



(o) He alludes to the sacrifices of the Law, which represented that true and only sacrifice.

<page=3074>(p) For he destroyed death by death, and fastened it as it were to the cross.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:17
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:17>Ephesians 2:17</verse></h3>




(13) And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.



(13) The preaching of the Gospel is an effectual instrument of this grace, common to the Jews as
well as to the Gentiles.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:18
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:18>Ephesians 2:18</verse></h3>



For (q) through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.



(q) Christ is the gate as it were, by whom we come to the Father, and the Holy Spirit is as it were,
our guiding man who leads us.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:19
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:19>Ephesians 2:19</verse></h3>




(14) Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and
of the household of God;



(14) The conclusion: the Gentiles are taken into the fellowship of salvation, and he describes the
excellency of the Church, calling it the city and house of God.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:20
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:20>Ephesians 2:20</verse></h3>




(15) And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the



(r) chief corner [stone];



(15) The Lord committed the doctrine of salvation, first to the prophets, and then to the apostles,
the end of which, and matter as it were and substance, is Christ. Therefore that is indeed the true
and universal Church which is built upon Christ by the prophets and apostles, as a spiritual temple
consecrated to God.



(r) That is the corner stone of the building, for the foundations are as it were corner stone of the
building.
#BCV:Ephesians 2:21
<h3><verse=Ephesians 2:21>Ephesians 2:21</verse></h3>



In whom all the building (s) fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:



(s) So that God is the workman not only of the foundation, but also of the whole building.

<h2>Ephesians 3</h2>

#BCV:Ephesians 3:1
<h3><verse=Ephesians 3:1>Ephesians 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=3075>For (1) this cause I Paul, (a) the prisoner of Jesus Christ for you Gentiles,



(1) He maintains his apostleship against the offence of the cross, upon which he also makes an
argument to confirm himself, affirming that he was not only appointed an apostle by the mercy of
God, but was also appointed particularly to the Gentiles. And this was to call them everywhere to
salvation, because God had so determined this from the beginning, although he deferred a great
while the manifestation of his counsel.



(a) These words, "the prisoner of Jesus Christ", are taken passively, that is to say, "I, Paul, am cast
into prison for maintaining the glory of Christ."
#BCV:Ephesians 3:5
<h3><verse=Ephesians 3:5>Ephesians 3:5</verse></h3>



Which in (b) other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his
holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;



(b) He does not mean that no one knew of the calling of the Gentiles before, but because very few
knew of it. And those that did know it, such as the prophets, had it revealed to them very obscurely,
and by means of symbols.

#BCV:Ephesians 3:10
<h3><verse=Ephesians 3:10>Ephesians 3:10</verse></h3>


(2) To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly [places] might be known by
the church the (c) manifold wisdom of God,

(2) The unsuspected calling of the Gentiles was as it were a mirror to the heavenly angels, in which
they might behold the marvellous wisdom of God.

(c) God always had only one way to save men by: but it had various shapes and forms.
#BCV:Ephesians 3:11
<h3><verse=Ephesians 3:11>Ephesians 3:11</verse></h3>

According to the (d) eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:

(d) Which was before all things.
#BCV:Ephesians 3:14
<h3><verse=Ephesians 3:14>Ephesians 3:14</verse></h3>


(3) For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ,

<page=3076>(3) He teaches by his own example that the efficacy of the doctrine depends upon the grace of God,
and therefore we ought to join prayers with the preaching and hearing of the word. And these are
needful not only to those who are youngsters in religion, but even to the oldest also, that as they
grow up more and more by faith in Christ, and are confirmed with all spiritual gifts, they may be
grounded and rooted in the knowledge of that immeasurable love, with which God the Father has
loved us in Christ. And this is because the whole family, of which a part is already received into
heaven, and part is yet here on earth, depends upon that adoption of the heavenly Father, in his only
Son.

#BCV:Ephesians 3:15
<h3><verse=Ephesians 3:15>Ephesians 3:15</verse></h3>

Of whom the whole (e) family in heaven and earth is named,

(e) That entire people, who had but one household Father, and that is the Church which is adopted
in Christ.

#BCV:Ephesians 3:16
<h3><verse=Ephesians 3:16>Ephesians 3:16</verse></h3>

That he would grant you, according to the (f) riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by
his Spirit in the (g) inner man;

(f) According to the greatness of his mercy.

(g) See (<bcv=Rom 7:22>Rom 7:22</bcv>).

#BCV:Ephesians 3:17
<h3><verse=Ephesians 3:17>Ephesians 3:17</verse></h3>

That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in (h) love,

(h) With which God loves us, which is the root of our election.

#BCV:Ephesians 3:18
<h3><verse=Ephesians 3:18>Ephesians 3:18</verse></h3>

May be able to comprehend with all saints (i) what [is] the breadth, and length, and depth, and
height;

(i) How perfect that work of Christ is in every part.

#BCV:Ephesians 3:19
<h3><verse=Ephesians 3:19>Ephesians 3:19</verse></h3>

And to know the (k) love of Christ, which (l) passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the

(m) fulness of God.

(k) Which God has shown us in Christ.

<page=3077>(l) Which surpasses all the capacity of man's intellect, to comprehend it fully in his mind: for
otherwise whoever has the Spirit of God perceives as much (according to the measure that God has
given him) as is necessary for salvation.

(m) So that we have abundantly in us whatever things are required to make us perfect with God.

#BCV:Ephesians 3:20
<h3><verse=Ephesians 3:20>Ephesians 3:20</verse></h3>


(4) Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according
to the power that worketh in us,



(4) He breaks forth into a thanksgiving, by which the Ephesians also may be strengthened and
encouraged to hope for anything from God.

<h2>Ephesians 4</h2>

#BCV:Ephesians 4:1
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:1>Ephesians 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=3078>I therefore, (1) the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the (a) vocation
wherewith ye are called,



(1) Another part of the epistle, containing precepts of the Christian life, the sum of which is this,
that every man behave himself as it is fitting for so excellent a grace of God.



(a) By this is meant the general calling of the faithful, which is this, to be holy as our God is holy.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:2
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:2>Ephesians 4:2</verse></h3>




(2) With all lowliness and meekness, with (b) longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;



(2) Secondly, he commends the meekness of the mind, which is demonstrated by bearing with one
another.



(b) See (<bcv=Mat 18:25-27>Mat 18:25-27</bcv>).
#BCV:Ephesians 4:3
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:3>Ephesians 4:3</verse></h3>




(3) Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.



(3) Thirdly he requires perfect agreement, but yet such that is joined with the band of the Holy
Spirit.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:4
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:4>Ephesians 4:4</verse></h3>




(4) [There is] one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;



(4) An argument of great weight for an earnest displaying of brotherly love and charity with one
another, because we are made one body as it were of one God and Father, by one Spirit,
worshipping one Lord with one faith, and consecrated to him with one baptism, and having hope of
one self same glory, unto which we are called. Therefore, whoever breaks charity, breaks all of these
things apart.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:6
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:6>Ephesians 4:6</verse></h3>



One God and Father of all, who [is] (c) above all, and (d) through all, and (e) in you all.



(c) Who alone has the chief authority over the Church.



(d) Who alone pours forth his providence, through all the members of the Church.

<page=3079>(e) Who alone is joined together with us in Christ.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:7
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:7>Ephesians 4:7</verse></h3>




(5) But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the (f) gift of Christ.



(5) He teaches us that we indeed are all one body, and that all good gifts proceed from Christ alone,
who reigns in heaven having mightily conquered all his enemies, from where he heaps all gifts upon
his Church. But yet nonetheless these gifts are differently and variously divided according to his will
and pleasure, and therefore every man ought to be content with that measure that God has given
him, and to bestow it to the common profit of the whole body.



(f) Which Christ has given.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:8
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:8>Ephesians 4:8</verse></h3>



Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led (g) captivity captive, and gave gifts unto
men.



(g) A multitude of captives.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:9
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:9>Ephesians 4:9</verse></h3>




(Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended first into the (h) lower parts of the
earth?



(h) Down to the earth, which is the lowest part of the world.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:10
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:10>Ephesians 4:10</verse></h3>



He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might (i) fill (k) all
things.)



(i) Fill with his gifts.



(k) The Church.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:11
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:11>Ephesians 4:11</verse></h3>




(6) And he gave some, (l) apostles; and some, (m) prophets; and some, (n) evangelists; and some, (o)
pastors and teachers;



(6) First of all he lists the ecclesiastical functions, which are partly extraordinary and for a season,
such as apostles, prophets, and evangelists, and partly ordinary and perpetual, such as pastors and
teachers.

<page=3080>(l) The apostles were those twelve to whom Paul was afterward added, whose office was to plant
churches throughout all the world.



(m) The prophet's office was one of the chiefest, who were men of marvellous wisdom, and some
of them could foretell things to come.



(n) The apostles used these as companions in the execution of their office, being not able to go to
all places by themselves.



(o) Pastors are those who govern the Church, and teachers are those who govern the schools.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:12
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:12>Ephesians 4:12</verse></h3>




(7) For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the (p) body of
Christ:



(7) He shows the aim of ecclesiastical functions, that is, that by the ministry of men all the saints
may so grow up together, that they may make one mystical body of Christ.



(p) The Church.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:13
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:13>Ephesians 4:13</verse></h3>




(8) Till we all come in the (q) unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a
perfect man, unto the measure of the (r) stature of the fulness of Christ:



(8) The use of this ministry is perpetual so long as we are in this world, that is, until that time that
having put off the flesh, and thoroughly and perfectly agreeing between ourselves, we will be joined
with Christ our head. And this thing is done by the knowledge of the Son of God increasing in us,
and he himself by little and little growing up in us until we come to be a perfect man, which will be
in the world to come, when God will be all in all.



(q) In that most near joining which is knit and fastened together by faith.



(r) Christ is said to grow up to full age, not in himself, but in us.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:14
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:14>Ephesians 4:14</verse></h3>




(9) That we [henceforth] be no more children, (10) tossed to and fro, and carried about with every
wind of doctrine, by the (s) sleight of men, [and] (t) cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to
deceive;



(9) Between our childhood (that is to say, a very weak state, when we are still wavering) and our
perfect age, which we will have at length in another world, there is a mean, that is, our youth, and
steady going forward to perfection.

<page=3081>(10) He compares those who do not rest themselves upon the word of God, to little boats which are
tossed here and there with the doctrines of men as it were with contrary winds, and in addition
forewarns them that it comes to pass not only by the unsteadiness of man's brain, but also by the
craftiness of certain ones, who make as it were an art of it.



(s) With those uncertain events which toss men to and fro.



(t) By the deceit of those men who are very well practised in deceiving others.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:15
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:15>Ephesians 4:15</verse></h3>




(11) But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, [even]
Christ:



(11) By earnest affection of the truth and love, we grow up into Christ: for he (being effectual by the
ministry of his word, which as the vital Spirit makes alive the whole body in such a way that it
nourishes all the limbs of it according to the measure and proportion of each one) quickens and
cherishes his Church, which consists of various functions, as of various members, and preserves the
need of every one. And from this it follows that neither this body can live without Christ, neither
can any man grow up spiritually, who separates himself from the other members.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:16
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:16>Ephesians 4:16</verse></h3>



From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth,
according to the (u) effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh (x) increase of the body
unto the edifying of itself in (y) love.



(u) Of Christ, who with regard to the soul, empowers all the members.



(x) Such increase as is fit for the body to have.



(y) Charity is the knitting of the limbs together.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:17
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:17>Ephesians 4:17</verse></h3>




(12) This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk,
in the (z) vanity of their mind,



(12) He descends to the fruits of Christian doctrine, and reasons first upon the principles of
conduct and actions, setting down a most grave comparison between the children of God, and those
who are not regenerated. For in these men all the powers of the mind are corrupted, and their mind
is given to vanity, and their senses are darkened with most gross mistiness, and their affections are so
accustomed by little and little to wickedness, that at length they run headlong into all uncleanness,
being utterly destitute of all judgment.

<page=3082>(z) If the noblest parts of the soul are corrupted, what is man but solely corruption?
#BCV:Ephesians 4:18
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:18>Ephesians 4:18</verse></h3>



Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the (a) life of God through the ignorance
that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart:



(a) By which God lives in them.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:19
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:19>Ephesians 4:19</verse></h3>



Who being (b) past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness
with (c) greediness.



(b) Void of all judgment.



(c) They strove to surpass one another, as though there were some gain to be gotten by it.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:20
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:20>Ephesians 4:20</verse></h3>




(13) But ye have not so learned Christ;



(13) Here follows the contrary part concerning men who are regenerated by the true and living
knowledge of Christ, who have other principles by which they act that are very different, that is,
holy and honest desires, and a mind completely changed by the power of the Holy Spirit, from
which proceeds also like effects, as a just and holy life indeed.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:21
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:21>Ephesians 4:21</verse></h3>



If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, (d) as the truth is in Jesus:



(d) As they have learned who acknowledge Christ indeed, and in good earnest.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:22
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:22>Ephesians 4:22</verse></h3>



That ye put off concerning the former conversation (e) the old man, which is corrupt according to
the deceitful lusts;



(e) Yourselves.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:23
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:23>Ephesians 4:23</verse></h3>



And be renewed in the (f) spirit of your mind;

<page=3083>(f) Where there ought to have been the greatest force of reason, there is the greatest corruption of
all, which gradually weakens all things.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:24
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:24>Ephesians 4:24</verse></h3>



And that ye put on the new man, which (g) after God is created (h) in righteousness and (i) true
holiness.



(g) After the image of God.



(h) The effect and end of the new creation.



(i) Not fake nor counterfeit.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:25
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:25>Ephesians 4:25</verse></h3>




(14) Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members
one of another.



(14) He commends separately certain special Christian virtues, and first of all he requires truth (that
is to say, sincere manners), condemning all deceit and hypocrisy, because we are born one for
another.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:26
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:26>Ephesians 4:26</verse></h3>




(15) Be (k) ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down (l) upon your wrath:



(15) He teaches us how to bridle our anger in such a way that, even though our anger is fierce, yet it
does not break out, and that it is without delay quenched before we sleep. And this is so that Satan
may not take occasion to give us evil counsel through the wicked counsellor, and destroy us.



(k) If it so happens that you are angry, yet do not sin, that is, bridle your anger, and do not wickedly
do that which you have wickedly conceived.



(l) Let not the night come upon you in your anger, that is, make atonement quickly, for all matters.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:28
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:28>Ephesians 4:28</verse></h3>




(16) Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with [his] hands the thing
which is (m) good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.



(16) He descends from the heart to the hands, condemning theft: and because the men who give
themselves to this wickedness often pretend to be poor, he shows that labour is a good remedy
against poverty, which God blesses in such a way that those who labour always have some surplus to
<page=3084>help others. And therefore it is far from being the case that they are forced to steal other men's
goods.



(m) By labouring in things that are holy, and profitable to his neighbour.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:29
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:29>Ephesians 4:29</verse></h3>




(17) Let no (n) corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the
use of edifying, that it may minister (o) grace unto the hearers.



(17) He bridles the tongue as well, teaching us to so temper our talk, that our hearer's minds are not
destroyed, and are rather instructed.



(n) Literally, "rotten".



(o) By grace he means that by which men most profit with regard to going forward in godliness and
love.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:30
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:30>Ephesians 4:30</verse></h3>




(18) And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.



(18) A general precept against all excess of affections which dwell in that part of the mind, which
they call "angry", and he sets against them the contrary means. And he uses a most strong preface,
how we ought to take heed that we grieve not the Holy Spirit of God through our immoderateness
and excessiveness, who dwells in us to the end of moderating all our affections.
#BCV:Ephesians 4:32
<h3><verse=Ephesians 4:32>Ephesians 4:32</verse></h3>



And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, (19) even as God for Christ's
sake hath forgiven you.



(19) An argument taken from the example of Christ, most grave and strong, both for the pardoning
of those injuries which have been done to us by our greatest enemies, and much more for having
consideration of the miserable, and using moderation and gentle behaviour towards all men.

<h2>Ephesians 5</h2>

#BCV:Ephesians 5:3
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:3>Ephesians 5:3</verse></h3>


<page=3085>(1) But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as
becometh saints;



(1) Now he comes to another type of affections, which is in that part of the mind which men call
covetous or desirous: and he reprehends fornication, covetousness, and jesting very sharply.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:4
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:4>Ephesians 5:4</verse></h3>



Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor (a) jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of
thanks.



(a) Jests which men cast at one another: that no lightness is seen, nor evil example given, nor any
offence made by evil words or backbiting.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:5
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:5>Ephesians 5:5</verse></h3>




(2) For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an (b)
idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.



(2) Because these sins are such that the most part of men do not consider them to be sins, he
awakes the godly to the end that they should so much the more take heed to guard themselves from
these sins as from most harmful plagues.



(b) A bondslave to idolatry, for the covetous man thinks that his life consists in his goods.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:7
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:7>Ephesians 5:7</verse></h3>




(3) Be not ye therefore partakers with them.



(3) Because we are most ready to follow evil examples, therefore the apostle warns the godly to
always remember that the others are but as it were darkness, and that they themselves are as it were
light. And therefore the others commit all evils (as men are accustomed to do in the dark), but they
ought not to follow their examples, but rather (as the property of the light is) reprove their darkness,
and to walk in such a way (having Christ that true light going before them) as it becomes wise men.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:8
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:8>Ephesians 5:8</verse></h3>



For ye were sometimes darkness, but now [are ye] (c) light in the Lord: walk as children of light:

<page=3086>(c) The faithful are called light, both because they have the true light in them which enlightens them,
and also because they give light to others, insomuch that their honest conversation reproves the life
of wicked men.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:9
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:9>Ephesians 5:9</verse></h3>




(For the fruit of the (d) Spirit [is] in all goodness and righteousness and truth;)



(d) By whose power we are made light in the Lord.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:11
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:11>Ephesians 5:11</verse></h3>



And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather (e) reprove [them].



(e) Make them open to all the world, by your good life.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:14
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:14>Ephesians 5:14</verse></h3>



Wherefore (f) he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the (g) dead, and Christ shall give
thee light.



(f) The scripture, or God in the scripture.



(g) He speaks of the death of sin.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:15
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:15>Ephesians 5:15</verse></h3>




(4) See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,



(4) The worse and more corrupt that the manners of this world are, the more watchful we ought to
be in every situation, and give regard to nothing but the will of God.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:16
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:16>Ephesians 5:16</verse></h3>




(h) Redeeming the time, because the (i) days are evil.



(h) This is a metaphor taken from the merchants: who prefer the least profit that may be before any
of their pleasures.



(i) The times are troublesome and severe.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:18
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:18>Ephesians 5:18</verse></h3>




(5) And be not drunk with wine, wherein is (k) excess; but be filled with the Spirit;

<page=3087>(5) He sets the sober and holy assemblies of the faithful against the immoral banquets of the
unfaithful, in which the praises of the only Lord must ring, whether it is it in prosperity or diversity.



(k) Every type of disorder, together with every manner of filthiness and shamefulness.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:19
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:19>Ephesians 5:19</verse></h3>



Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your



(l) heart to the Lord;



(l) With an earnest affection of the heart, and not with the tongue only.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:21
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:21>Ephesians 5:21</verse></h3>




(6) Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.



(6) A short repetition of the end to which all things ought to be referred, to serve one another for
God's sake.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:22
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:22>Ephesians 5:22</verse></h3>




(7) Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, (8) as unto the Lord.



(7) Now he descends to a family, dividing orderly all the parts of a family. And he says that the duty
of wives consists in this, to be obedient to their husbands. (8) The first argument, for they cannot be
disobedient to their husbands except by also resisting God, who is the author of this subjection.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:23
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:23>Ephesians 5:23</verse></h3>




(9) For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: (10) and he is
the saviour of the body.



(9) A declaration of the former saying: because God has made the man head of the woman in
marriage, as Christ is the head of the Church.



(10) Another argument: because the good estate of the wife depends on the man, so that this
submission is not only just, but also very profitable: as also the salvation of the Church depends on
Christ, although to a far greater degree.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:24
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:24>Ephesians 5:24</verse></h3>




(11) Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so [let] the wives [be] to their own husbands in
every thing.



(11) The conclusion of the wives' duties towards their husbands.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:25
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:25>Ephesians 5:25</verse></h3>


<page=3088>(12) Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;



(12) The husbands duty towards their wives is to love them as themselves, of which love the love of
Christ towards his Church is a graphic image.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:26
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:26>Ephesians 5:26</verse></h3>




(13) That he might (m) sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the (n) word,



(13) Because many men pretend the infirmities of their wives to excuse their own hardness and
cruelty, the apostle wishes us to mark what manner of Church Christ received, when he joined it to
himself, and how he does not reject her for all her filth, and uncleanness, but ceases not to wipe it
away with his cleanness, until he wholly purifies it.



(m) Make it holy.



(n) Through the promise of free justification and sanctification in Christ, received by faith.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:27
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:27>Ephesians 5:27</verse></h3>



That he might present it to himself a glorious church, (o) not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such
thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.



(o) The Church as it is considered in itself, will not be without wrinkle, before it come to the mark it
aims at: for while it is in this life, it runs in a race. But if it is considered in Christ, it is clean and
without wrinkle.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:28
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:28>Ephesians 5:28</verse></h3>




(14) So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.



(14) Another argument: every man loves himself, even by nature: therefore he strives against nature
that does not love his wife. He proves the conclusion, first by the mystical knitting of Christ and the
Church together, and then by the ordinance of God, who says that man and wife are as one, that is,
not to be divided.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:29
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:29>Ephesians 5:29</verse></h3>



For no man ever yet hated his (p) own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the
church:



(p) His own body.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:30
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:30>Ephesians 5:30</verse></h3>

<page=3089>For we are members of his body, (q) of his flesh, and of his bones.



(q) He alludes to the making of the woman, which signifies our union with Christ, which is
accomplished by faith, but is signified in the ordinance of the Lord's supper.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:31
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:31>Ephesians 5:31</verse></h3>



For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall (r) be joined unto his wife, and they
two shall be one flesh.



(r) See<bcv=Mat 19:5> Mat 19:5</bcv>
#BCV:Ephesians 5:32
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:32>Ephesians 5:32</verse></h3>




(15) This is a great mystery: but I speak concerning Christ and the church.



(15) That no man might dream of natural union or knitting of Christ and his Church together (such
as the husbands and the wives is) he shows that it is secret, that is, spiritual and such as differs
greatly from the common capacity of man. And it consists by the power of the Spirit, and not of
the flesh, by faith, and by no natural bond.
#BCV:Ephesians 5:33
<h3><verse=Ephesians 5:33>Ephesians 5:33</verse></h3>




(16) Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife
[see] that she reverence [her] husband.



(16) The conclusion both of the husband's duty toward his wife, and of the wife's toward her
husband.

<h2>Ephesians 6</h2>

#BCV:Ephesians 6:1-3
<h3><verse=Ephesians 6:1>Ephesians 6:1-3</verse></h3>

<page=3090>Children, (1) obey your parents (2) in the (a) Lord: (3) for this is right.

(1) He comes to another part of a family, and shows that the duty of the children toward their
parents consists in obedience to them. (2) The first argument: because God has so appointed. And
upon this it follows also that children are obligated to obey their parents, that they may not swerve
from the true worship of God.

(a) For the Lord is author of all fatherhood, and therefore we must yield such obedience as he will
have us. (3) The second argument: because this obedience is most just.

#BCV:Ephesians 6:4-5
<h3><verse=Ephesians 6:4-5>Ephesians 6:4-5</verse></h3>

(4) Honour thy father and mother; (5) (which is the first commandment with (b) promise;)

(4) A proof of the first argument. (5) The third argument taken of the profit that ensues from it:
because the Lord gave this commandment among all the rest a special blessing.

(b) With a special promise: for otherwise the second commandment has a promise of mercy to a
thousand generations, but that promise is general.

#BCV:Ephesians 6:6
<h3><verse=Ephesians 6:6>Ephesians 6:6</verse></h3>

(6) And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and (c)
admonition of the Lord.

(6) It is the duty of fathers to use their fatherly authority moderately and to God's glory.

(c) Such information and precepts which are taken out of God's book, and are holy and acceptable
to him.

#BCV:Ephesians 6:7-8
<h3><verse=Ephesians 6:7-8>Ephesians 6:7-8</verse></h3>

(7) Servants, be obedient to them that are [your] masters (8) according to the flesh, with (d) fear and
trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;

(7) Now he descends to the third part of a family, that is, to the duty both of the masters and of the
servants. And he shows that the duty of servants consists in a hearty love and reverence for their
masters. (8) He moderates the sharpness of service, in that they are spiritually free even though they
are servants, and yet that spiritual freedom does not take away physical service: insomuch that they
cannot be Christ's, unless they serve their masters willingly and faithfully, as much as they may with
clear conscience.

<page=3091>(d) With careful reverence: for slavish fear is not allowable, much less in Christian servants.

#BCV:Ephesians 6:9
<h3><verse=Ephesians 6:9>Ephesians 6:9</verse></h3>

Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, (9) doing the will of God from
the heart;

(9) To cut off occasion of all pretences, he teaches us that it is God's will that some are either born
or made servants, and therefore they must respect God's will although their service is ever so hard.

With good will doing service, as to the (e) Lord, and not to men:

(e) Being moved with a reverence for God, as though you served God himself.

#BCV:Ephesians 6:10
<h3><verse=Ephesians 6:10>Ephesians 6:10</verse></h3>

(10) Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord,
whether [he be] bond or free.

(10) Although they serve unkind and cruel masters, yet the obedience of servants is no less
acceptable to God, than the obedience of those that are free.

#BCV:Ephesians 6:11
<h3><verse=Ephesians 6:11>Ephesians 6:11</verse></h3>

(11) And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your
Master also is in heaven; neither is there (f) respect of persons with him.

(11) It is the duty of masters to use the authority that they have over their servants, modestly and in
a holy manner, seeing that they in another respect have a common master who is in heaven, who will
judge both the servant and the free.

(f) Either of freedom or bondage.

#BCV:Ephesians 6:12
<h3><verse=Ephesians 6:12>Ephesians 6:12</verse></h3>

(12) Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

(12) He concludes the other part of this epistle with a grave exhortation, that all are ready and fight
constantly, trusting in spiritual weapons, until their enemies are completely put to flight. And first of
all he warns us to take up the armour of God, for with it alone may our enemy be dispatched.

#BCV:Ephesians 6:13
<h3><verse=Ephesians 6:13>Ephesians 6:13</verse></h3>

against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high [places].

(13) Secondly, he declares that our chiefest and mightiest enemies are invisible, so that we may not
think that our chiefest conflict is with men.

(g) Against men, who are of a frail and brittle nature, against whom are set spiritual wiles, a
thousand times more mighty than the flesh.

(h) He gives these names to the evil angels, by reason of the effects which they work: not that they
are able to do the same in and of themselves, but because God gives them permission.

#BCV:Ephesians 6:14
<h3><verse=Ephesians 6:14>Ephesians 6:14</verse></h3>

(14) Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the (i)
evil day, and having done all, to stand.

(14) He shows that these enemies are put to flight only with the armour of God, that is, with
uprightness of conscience, a godly and holy life, knowledge of the Gospel, faith, and to be short,
with the word of God. And that daily earnest prayer must be made for the health of the Church,
and especially for the steadfast faithfulness of the true, godly, and valiant ministers of the word.

(i) See (<bcv=Eph 5:16>Eph 5:16</bcv>).

#BCV:Ephesians 6:15
<h3><verse=Ephesians 6:15>Ephesians 6:15</verse></h3>

(15) And your feet shod with the (k) preparation of the gospel of peace;

(k) The preparation of the Gospel may be as it were shoes to you: and it is very fitly called the
Gospel of peace, because, seeing we have to go to God through most dangerous ranks of enemies,
this may encourage us to go on bravely, in that you know by the doctrine of the Gospel, that we are
travelling to God who is at peace with us.

#BCV:Ephesians 6:18
<h3><verse=Ephesians 6:18>Ephesians 6:18</verse></h3>

(18) Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the (l) Spirit, and watching thereunto with all
perseverance and supplication for all saints;

(l) That holy prayers may proceed from the Holy Spirit.

#BCV:Ephesians 6:21
<h3><verse=Ephesians 6:21>Ephesians 6:21</verse></h3>

(21) But that ye also may know my affairs, [and] how I do, Tychicus, a beloved brother and faithful
minister in the Lord, shall make known to you all things:

<page=3093>(21) A familiar and very amiable declaration of his state, together with a solemn prayer, with which
Paul is accustomed to end his epistles.

#BCV:Ephesians 6:24
<h3><verse=Ephesians 6:24>Ephesians 6:24</verse></h3>

(24) Grace [be] with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ (m) in sincerity. Amen. "[To [the] Ephesians
written from Rome, by Tychicus.]"

(m) Or to immortality, to life everlasting.


<h1>Philippians</h1>

<h2>Philippians 1</h2>

#BCV:Philippians 1:1
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:1>Philippians 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=3095>Paul (1) and Timotheus, the servants of Jesus Christ, to all the saints in Christ Jesus which are at
Philippi, with the (a) bishops and deacons:



(1) The Paul's point in writing this epistle, is to strengthen and encourage the Philippians by all
means possible, not to faint, but more than that, to go forward. And first of all he commends their
former deeds, to exhort them to go forward: which thing he says he fully hopes they will do, and
that by the testimony of their abundant charity. But in the meantime he refers all things to the grace
of God.



(a) By the bishops are meant both the pastors who have the dispensation of the word, and the elders
that govern: and by deacons are meant those that were stewards of the treasury of the Church, and
had to look after the poor.
#BCV:Philippians 1:5
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:5>Philippians 1:5</verse></h3>



For your (b) fellowship in the gospel from the (c) first day until now;



(b) Because you also are made partakers of the Gospel.



(c) Ever since I knew you.
#BCV:Philippians 1:6
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:6>Philippians 1:6</verse></h3>



Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform [it]
until the (d) day of Jesus Christ:



(d) The Spirit of God will not forsake you to the very latter end, until your mortal bodies will appear
before the judgment of Christ to be glorified.
#BCV:Philippians 1:7
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:7>Philippians 1:7</verse></h3>



Even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both
in my (e) bonds, and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my (f)
grace.



(e) A true proof of a true knitting together with Christ.



(f) He calls his bonds "grace", as though he had received some singular benefit.
#BCV:Philippians 1:8
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:8>Philippians 1:8</verse></h3>


<page=3096>(2) For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all in the bowels of Jesus Christ.



(2) He declares his good will towards them, in addition showing by what means they may chiefly be
strengthened and encouraged, that is, by continual prayer.
#BCV:Philippians 1:9
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:9>Philippians 1:9</verse></h3>




(3) And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and [in] all
judgment;



(3) He shows what thing we ought to chiefly desire, that is, first of all that we may increase in the
true knowledge of God (so that we may be able to discern things that differ from one another), and
also in charity, that even to the end we may give ourselves to truly good works, to the glory of God
by Jesus Christ.
#BCV:Philippians 1:11
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:11>Philippians 1:11</verse></h3>



Being filled with the (g) fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise
of God.



(g) If righteousness is the tree, and good works the fruits, then the papists are truly deceived indeed,
when they say that works are the cause of righteousness.
#BCV:Philippians 1:12
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:12>Philippians 1:12</verse></h3>




(4) But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things [which happened] unto me have
fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel;



(4) He prevents the offence that might come by his persecution, by which different ones took
occasion to disgrace his apostleship. And to these he answers, that God has blessed his
imprisonment in such a way, that he has by that means become more famous, and the dignity of the
Gospel by this occasion is greatly enlarged, although not all men are happy with it, yet it has
enlarged indeed.
#BCV:Philippians 1:13
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:13>Philippians 1:13</verse></h3>

So that my bonds (h) in Christ are manifest in all the (i) palace, and in all other [places];

(h) For Christ's sake.

(i) In the emperor's court.
#BCV:Philippians 1:14
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:14>Philippians 1:14</verse></h3>

<page=3097>And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to
speak the (k) word without fear.

(k) The Gospel is called the word, to set forth the excellence of it.
#BCV:Philippians 1:16
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:16>Philippians 1:16</verse></h3>

The one preach Christ of contention, not (l) sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds:

(l) Not with a pure mind: for otherwise their doctrine was pure.
#BCV:Philippians 1:18
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:18>Philippians 1:18</verse></h3>

(5) What then? notwithstanding, every way, whether in (m) pretence, or in truth, Christ is preached;
and I therein do rejoice, yea, and will rejoice.

(5) He shows by setting forth his own example, that the end of our afflictions is true joy, and this
results through the power of the Spirit of Christ, who he gives to those that ask.

(m) Under a false pretence and disguise: for they make Christ a cloak for their ambition and envy.

#BCV:Philippians 1:20
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:20>Philippians 1:20</verse></h3>

(6) According to my earnest expectation and [my] hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but [that]
with all boldness, as always, [so] now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether [it be] by
life, or by death.

(6) We must continue even to the end, with great confidence, having nothing before our eyes except
for Christ's glory alone, whether we live or die.
#BCV:Philippians 1:22
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:22>Philippians 1:22</verse></h3>

(7) But if I live in the (n) flesh, this [is] the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not.

(7) An example of a true shepherd, who considers more how he may profit his sheep, than he
considers any benefit of his own whatsoever.

(n) To live in this mortal body.
#BCV:Philippians 1:27
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:27>Philippians 1:27</verse></h3>

<page=3098>(8) Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see
you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye (o) stand fast in one spirit, with one mind
striving together for the faith of the gospel;

(8) Having set down those things before in manner of a preface, he descends now to exhortations,
warning them first of all to consent both in doctrine and mind, and afterward, that being thus knit
together with those common bonds, they continue through the strength of faith to bear all adversity
in such a way, that they allow nothing unworthy of the profession of the Gospel.

(o) The word signifies to stand fast in, and it is proper to wrestlers, that stand fast and do not move
their feet back at all.
#BCV:Philippians 1:28
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:28>Philippians 1:28</verse></h3>

(9) And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but
to you of salvation, and that of God.

(9) We ought not to be discouraged but rather encouraged by the persecutions which the enemies of
the Gospel imagine and practise against us: seeing that the persecutions are certain witnesses from
God himself both of our salvation, and of the destruction of the wicked.
#BCV:Philippians 1:29
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:29>Philippians 1:29</verse></h3>

(10) For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for
his sake;

(10) He proves his statement that persecution is a token of our salvation, because it is a gift of God
to suffer for Christ, which gift he bestows upon his own, as he does the gift of faith.
#BCV:Philippians 1:30
<h3><verse=Philippians 1:30>Philippians 1:30</verse></h3>

(11) Having the same conflict which ye saw in me, and now hear [to be] in me.

(11) Now he shows for what purpose he made mention of his afflictions.

<h2>Philippians 2</h2>

#BCV:Philippians 2:1
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:1>Philippians 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=3099>If (1) [there be] therefore any consolation in (a) Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of
the Spirit, if any (b) bowels and mercies,

(1) A most earnest request to remove all those things, by which that great and special consent and
agreement is commonly broken, that is, contention and pride, by which it comes to pass that they
separate themselves from one another.

(a) Any Christian comfort.

(b) If any seeking of inward love.
#BCV:Philippians 2:2
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:2>Philippians 2:2</verse></h3>

Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the (c) same love, [being] of one accord, of one mind.

(c) Equal love.
#BCV:Philippians 2:5
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:5>Philippians 2:5</verse></h3>

(2) Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

(2) He sets before them a most perfect example of all modesty and sweet conduct, Christ Jesus,
whom we ought to follow with all our might: who abased himself so much for our sakes, although
he is above all, that he took upon himself the form of a servant, that is, our flesh, willingly subject
to all weaknesses, even to the death of the cross.

#BCV:Philippians 2:6
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:6>Philippians 2:6</verse></h3>

Who, being in the (d) form of God, (e) thought it not robbery to be (f) equal with God:

(d) Such as God himself is, and therefore God, for there is no one in all parts equal to God but God
himself.

(e) Christ, that glorious and everlasting God, knew that he might rightfully and lawfully not appear in
the base flesh of man, but remain with majesty fit for God: yet he chose rather to debase himself.


(f) If the Son is equal with the Father, then is there of necessity an equality, which Arrius that heretic
denies: and if the Son is compared to the Father, then is there a distinction of persons, which
Sabellius that heretic denies.
#BCV:Philippians 2:7
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:7>Philippians 2:7</verse></h3>

<page=3100>But made himself of (g) no reputation, and took upon him the (h) form of a servant, and was made
in the likeness of men:

(g) He brought himself from all things, as it were to nothing.

(h) By taking our manhood upon him.

#BCV:Philippians 2:9
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:9>Philippians 2:9</verse></h3>

(3) Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a (i) name which is above every
name:

(3) He shows the most glorious even of Christ's submission, to teach us that modesty is the true way
to true praise and glory.

(i) Dignity and high distinction, and that which accompanies it.
#BCV:Philippians 2:10
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:10>Philippians 2:10</verse></h3>

That at the name of Jesus (k) every knee should bow, of [things] in heaven, and [things] in earth,
and [things] under the earth;

(k) All creatures will at length be subject to Christ.

#BCV:Philippians 2:11
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:11>Philippians 2:11</verse></h3>

And [that] (l) every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ [is] Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

(l) Every nation.

#BCV:Philippians 2:12
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:12>Philippians 2:12</verse></h3>

(4) Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much
more in my absence, (m) work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.

(4) The conclusion: we must go on to salvation with humility and submission by the way of our
vocation.

(m) He is said to make an end of his salvation who runs in the race of righteousness.

#BCV:Philippians 2:13
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:13>Philippians 2:13</verse></h3>

(5) For it is God which worketh in you both (n) to will and to do of [his] good pleasure.

<page=3101>(5) A most sure and grounded argument against pride, because we have nothing in us praiseworthy,
but it comes from the free gift of God, and is outside of us, for we do not have ability or power, so
much as to will well (much less to do well), except only by the free mercy of God.

(n) The reason why we are not statues; and yet we do not will well by nature, but only because God
has made of our wicked will a good will.

#BCV:Philippians 2:14
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:14>Philippians 2:14</verse></h3>

(6) Do all things without murmurings and disputings:

(6) He describes modesty by the contrary effects of pride, teaching us that it is far both from all
malicious and secret or inward hatred, and also from open contentions and brawlings.

#BCV:Philippians 2:15
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:15>Philippians 2:15</verse></h3>

(7) That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a
crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;

(7) To be short, he requires a life without fault, and pure, so that being enlightened with the word of
God, they may shine in the darkness of this world.

#BCV:Philippians 2:16
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:16>Philippians 2:16</verse></h3>

Holding forth the (o) word of life; (8) that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in
vain, neither laboured in vain.

(o) The Gospel is called the word of life, because of the effects which it produces. (8) Again he
urges them forward, setting before them his true apostolic care that he had for them: in addition
comforting them to the end that they should not be sorry for the greatness of his afflictions, no, not
even if he should die to make perfect their sacrifice with his blood, as it were with a drink offering.

#BCV:Philippians 2:17
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:17>Philippians 2:17</verse></h3>

Yea, and if I be offered upon the (p) sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.

(p) As if he said, I brought you Philippians to Christ, and my desire is that you present yourselves a
living sacrifice to him, and then it will not grieve me to be offered up as a drink offering, to
accomplish this your spiritual offering.

#BCV:Philippians 2:19
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:19>Philippians 2:19</verse></h3>

(9) But I trust in the Lord Jesus to send Timotheus shortly unto you, that I also may be of (q) good
comfort, when I know your state.

<page=3102>(9) Moreover, he strengthens and encourages their minds both by sending back Epaphroditus to
them, whose fidelity towards them, and great pains in helping him, he commends: and also
promising to send Timothy shortly to them, by whose presence they will receive great benefit. And
he hopes also himself to come shortly to them, if God wills.

(q) May be confirmed in the joy of my mind.

#BCV:Philippians 2:21
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:21>Philippians 2:21</verse></h3>

For (r) all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's.

(r) The most part.

#BCV:Philippians 2:30
<h3><verse=Philippians 2:30>Philippians 2:30</verse></h3>

Because for the (s) work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack
of service toward me.

(s) He calls here the work of Christ the visiting of Christ, being poor and in bonds in the person of
Paul.

<h2>Philippians 3</h2>

#BCV:Philippians 3:1
<h3><verse=Philippians 3:1>Philippians 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=3103>Finally, (1) my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. (2) To write the (a) same things to you, to me indeed [is]
not grievous, but for you [it is] safe.

(1) A conclusion of those things which have been said before, that is, that they go forward cheerfully
in the Lord. (2) A preface to the next admonition that follows, to take good heed and beware of
false apostles, who join circumcision with Christ, (that is to say, justification by works, with free
justification by faith), and beat into men's head the ceremonies which are abolished, instead of true
exercises of godliness and charity. And he calls them dogs, as profane barkers, and evil workmen,
because they neglected true works and did not teach the true use of them. To be short, he calls them
concision, because in urging circumcision, they cut off themselves and others from the Church.

(a) Which you have often times heard from me.

#BCV:Philippians 3:2
<h3><verse=Philippians 3:2>Philippians 3:2</verse></h3>

Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the (b) concision.

(b) He alludes to circumcision; and while they were boasting in it, they broke apart the Church.
#BCV:Philippians 3:3
<h3><verse=Philippians 3:3>Philippians 3:3</verse></h3>

(3) For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and
have no confidence (c) in the flesh.

(3) He shows that we ought to use true circumcision, that is, the circumcision of the heart, so that
by cutting off all wicked affections by the power of Christ, we may serve God in purity of life.

(c) In outward things which do not at all pertain to the soul.
#BCV:Philippians 3:4
<h3><verse=Philippians 3:4>Philippians 3:4</verse></h3>

(4) Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other man thinketh that he hath
whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more:

(4) He does not doubt to prefer himself even according to the flesh, before those perverse zealous
urgers of the Law, that all men may know that he does with good judgment of mind, consider of
little worth all of those outward things. For he who has Christ lacks nothing, and confidence in our
works cannot stand with the free justification in Christ by faith.
#BCV:Philippians 3:7
<h3><verse=Philippians 3:7>Philippians 3:7</verse></h3>

<page=3104>But what things were (d) gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.

(d) Which I considered as gain.

#BCV:Philippians 3:8
<h3><verse=Philippians 3:8>Philippians 3:8</verse></h3>

Yea doubtless, and I count (e) all things [but] loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ
Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them [but] dung, that I
may (f) win Christ,

(e) He shuts out all works, those that go before, as well as those that come after faith.

(f) That in their place I might get Christ, and from a poor man become rich, so far am I from losing
anything at all.

#BCV:Philippians 3:9
<h3><verse=Philippians 3:9>Philippians 3:9</verse></h3>

And be found in (g) him, (h) not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which
is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:

(g) In Christ: for those that are found outside of Christ are subject to condemnation.

(h) That is, to be in Christ, to be found not in a man's own righteousness, but clothed with the
righteousness of Christ imputed to him.

#BCV:Philippians 3:10
<h3><verse=Philippians 3:10>Philippians 3:10</verse></h3>

(5) That I may (i) know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the (6) fellowship of his
sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

(5) This is the end of righteousness by faith with regard to us, that by the power of his resurrection
we may escape from death.

(i) That I may indeed feel him, and have an experience of him. (6) The way to that eternal salvation
is to follow Christ's steps by afflictions and persecutions, until we come to Christ himself, who is our
mark at which we aim, and receive that reward to which God calls us in him. And the apostle sets
these true exercises of godliness against those vain ceremonies of the Law, in which the false
apostles put the sum of godliness.

#BCV:Philippians 3:11
<h3><verse=Philippians 3:11>Philippians 3:11</verse></h3>

If by any means I might attain unto the (k) resurrection of the dead.

(k) To everlasting life, which follows the resurrection of the saints.

#BCV:Philippians 3:12
<h3><verse=Philippians 3:12>Philippians 3:12</verse></h3>

(12) apprehend that for which also I am (l) apprehended of Christ Jesus.

(l) For we run only as far forth as we are laid hold on by Christ, that is, as God gives us strength, and
shows us the way.

#BCV:Philippians 3:15
<h3><verse=Philippians 3:15>Philippians 3:15</verse></h3>

(7) Let us therefore, as many as be (m) perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise
minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.

(7) The conclusion of this exhortation standing upon three members: the first is, that those who
have profited in the truth of this doctrine should continue in it. The second is, that if there are any
who are yet ignorant and do not understand these things, and who doubt of the abolishing of the
Law, they should cause no trouble, and should be gently waited for, until they also are instructed by
the Lord. The third is, that they judge the false apostles by their fruits: in which he does not doubt
to set forth himself as an example.

(m) He said before that he was not perfect. So that in this place he calls those perfect who have
somewhat profited in the knowledge of Christ and the Gospel, whom he sets against the rude and
ignorant, as he himself expounds in (<bcv=Philip 3:16>Phi 3:16</bcv>).
#BCV:Philippians 3:18
<h3><verse=Philippians 3:18>Philippians 3:18</verse></h3>

(8) (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, [that they are]
the enemies of the cross of Christ:

(8) He shows what the false apostles truly are, not from malice or ambition, but with sorrow and
tears, that is, because being enemies of the Gospel (for that is joined with persecuting it) they regard
nothing else, but the benefits of this life: that is to say, that abounding in peace, and quietness, and
all worldly pleasures, they may live in great estimation among men, whose miserable end he
forewarned them of.

#BCV:Philippians 3:19
<h3><verse=Philippians 3:19>Philippians 3:19</verse></h3>

Whose (n) end [is] destruction, whose God [is their] belly, and [whose] (o) glory [is] in their shame,
who mind earthly things.)

(n) Reward.

(o) Which they hunt after from men's hands.

#BCV:Philippians 3:20
<h3><verse=Philippians 3:20>Philippians 3:20</verse></h3>

(20) The Lord Jesus Christ:

(9) He sets against these fellows true pastors who neglect earthly things, and aspire to heaven only,
where they know that even in their bodies they will be clothed with that eternal glory, by the power
of God.

<h2>Philippians 4</h2>

#BCV:Philippians 4:1
<h3><verse=Philippians 4:1>Philippians 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=3107>Therefore, (1) my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and (a) crown, so stand fast in the

(b) Lord, [my] dearly beloved.

(1) A rehearsal of the conclusion: that they bravely continue until they have gotten the victory,
trusting in the Lord's strength.

(a) My honour.

(b) In that unification of which the Lord is the bond.
#BCV:Philippians 4:2
<h3><verse=Philippians 4:2>Philippians 4:2</verse></h3>

(2) I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord.

(2) He also calls on some by name, partly because they needed private exhortation, and partly also to
stir up others to be more prompt and ready.

#BCV:Philippians 4:3
<h3><verse=Philippians 4:3>Philippians 4:3</verse></h3>

And I intreat thee also, true yokefellow, help those women which laboured with me in the gospel,
with Clement also, and [with] other my fellowlabourers, whose names [are] in the (c) book of life.

(c) God is said, after the manner of men, to have a book, in which the names of his elect are written,
to whom he will give everlasting life. Ezekiel calls it the writing of the house of Israel, and the secret
of the Lord; (<bcv=Ezek 13:9>Eze 13:9</bcv>).

#BCV:Philippians 4:4
<h3><verse=Philippians 4:4>Philippians 4:4</verse></h3>

(3) Rejoice in the (d) Lord alway: [and] again I say, Rejoice.

(3) He adds particular exhortations: and the first is, that the joy of the Philippians should not be
hindered by any afflictions that the wicked imagine and work against them.

(d) So is the joy of the world distinguished from our joy.

#BCV:Philippians 4:5
<h3><verse=Philippians 4:5>Philippians 4:5</verse></h3>

(4) Let your (e) moderation be known unto all men. (5) The Lord [is] at hand.

(4) The second is, that taking all things in good part, they behave themselves moderately with all
men.

<page=3108>(e) Your quiet and settled mind. (5) The taking away of an objection: we must not be anxious
because of impatience, seeing that God is at hand to give us help in time for all our miseries.

#BCV:Philippians 4:6
<h3><verse=Philippians 4:6>Philippians 4:6</verse></h3>

(6) Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with (f) thanksgiving let
your requests be made known unto God.

(6) The third is, that we are not too anxious for anything, but with sure confidence give God thanks,
and desire from him whatever we have need of, that with a quiet conscience we may wholly and with
all our hearts submit ourselves to him.

(f) So David began very often with tears, but ended with thanksgiving.

#BCV:Philippians 4:7
<h3><verse=Philippians 4:7>Philippians 4:7</verse></h3>

And the (g) peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your (h) hearts and minds
through Christ Jesus.

(g) That great quietness of mind, which God alone gives in Christ.

(h) He divides the mind into the heart, that is, into that part which is the seat of the will and
affections, and into the higher part, by which we understand and reason about matters.

#BCV:Philippians 4:8
<h3><verse=Philippians 4:8>Philippians 4:8</verse></h3>

(7) Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things (i) [are] honest, whatsoever things
[are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of
good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things.

(7) A general conclusion, that as they have been taught both in word and example, so they build their
lives to the rule of all holiness and righteousness.

(i) Whatever things are such that they beautify and set you apart with a holy gravity.

#BCV:Philippians 4:10
<h3><verse=Philippians 4:10>Philippians 4:10</verse></h3>

(8) But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again;
wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity.

(8) He witnesses that their liberality was acceptable to him, with which they helped him in his
extreme poverty: but yet so moderating his words, that he might declare himself void of all
suspicion of dishonesty, and that he has a mind content both with prosperity and adversity, and to
be short, that he rests himself only in the will of God.

#BCV:Philippians 4:11
<h3><verse=Philippians 4:11>Philippians 4:11</verse></h3>

<page=3109>Not that I speak in respect of (k) want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, [therewith] to
be content.

(k) As though I am speaking concerning my want.

#BCV:Philippians 4:12
<h3><verse=Philippians 4:12>Philippians 4:12</verse></h3>

I know both how to be (l) abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am (m)
instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

(l) He uses a general word, and yet he speaks but of one type of cross, which is poverty, for poverty
commonly brings all types of discomforts with it.

(m) This is a metaphor taken from holy things or sacrifices, for our life is like a sacrifice.

#BCV:Philippians 4:15
<h3><verse=Philippians 4:15>Philippians 4:15</verse></h3>

(9) Now ye Philippians know also, that in the (n) beginning of the gospel, when I departed from
Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.

(9) He witnesses that he remembers also their former benefits, and again puts away sinister suspicion
of greedy desire, in that that he received nothing from anyone else.

(n) At the beginning, when I preached the Gospel among you.

#BCV:Philippians 4:17
<h3><verse=Philippians 4:17>Philippians 4:17</verse></h3>

(10) Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.

(10) He witnesses again that he admits well of their benefit, not so much for his own sake as for
theirs, because they gave it not so much to him, as they offered it to God as a sacrifice, of which the
Lord himself will not be forgetful.

#BCV:Philippians 4:18
<h3><verse=Philippians 4:18>Philippians 4:18</verse></h3>

But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things [which were sent]
from you, an (o) odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.

(o) He alludes to the sweet smelling savours that were offered under the old Law.

#BCV:Philippians 4:22
<h3><verse=Philippians 4:22>Philippians 4:22</verse></h3>

<page=3110>All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of (p) Caesar's household.

(p) Those who belong to the emperor Nero.

<h1>Colossians</h1>

<h2>Colossians 1</h2>

#BCV:Colossians 1:1
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:1>Colossians 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=3111>Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the (a) will of God, and Timotheus [our] brother,

(a) By the free bountifulness of God.

#BCV:Colossians 1:2
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:2>Colossians 1:2</verse></h3>

To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at (b) Colosse: Grace [be] unto you, and peace,
from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

(b) Colosse is situated in Phrygia, not far from Hierapolis and Laodicea, on that side that faces
toward Lycia and Pamphylia.

#BCV:Colossians 1:3
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:3>Colossians 1:3</verse></h3>

(1) We give thanks to God and the (c) Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you,

(1) He commends the doctrine that was delivered to them by Epaphras, and their readiness in
receiving it.

(c) We cannot otherwise think of God to be our salvation, except that he is Christ's Father, in whom
we are adopted.

#BCV:Colossians 1:5
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:5>Colossians 1:5</verse></h3>

For the (d) hope which is laid up for you in heaven, whereof ye heard before in the word of the
truth of the gospel;

(d) For the glory that is hoped for.
#BCV:Colossians 1:8
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:8>Colossians 1:8</verse></h3>

(2) Who also declared unto us your love in the (e) Spirit.

(2) He declares his good will towards them, telling them that they must not still remain at one place,
but go on further both in the knowledge of the Gospel, and also in the true use of it.

(e) Your spiritual love, or your love which comes from the Spirit.
#BCV:Colossians 1:9
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:9>Colossians 1:9</verse></h3>

<page=3112>For this cause we also, since the day we heard [it], do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye
might be filled with the knowledge of (f) his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;

(f) God's will.
#BCV:Colossians 1:11
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:11>Colossians 1:11</verse></h3>

(3) Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering
with (g) joyfulness;

(3) The gift of continuance is not from us, but it proceeds from the power of God, which he freely
gives us.

(g) It must not be unwilling, and as it were drawn out of us by force, but proceed from a merry and
joyful mind.

#BCV:Colossians 1:12
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:12>Colossians 1:12</verse></h3>

(4) Giving thanks unto the (5) Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance
of the saints in (h) light:

(4) Having ended the preface, he goes to the matter itself, that is to say, to an excellent description
(although it is but short) of complete Christianity, which is fitly divided into three treatises: for first
of all he expounds the true doctrine according to the order of the causes, beginning from this verse
to (<bcv=Col 1:12-21>Col 1:12-21</bcv>). And from there he begins to apply the same to the Colossians with various
exhortations to (<bcv=Col 1:22>Colossians 1:22-2</bcv>:6). And last of all in the third place, even to (<bcv=Col 2:6-23>Col. 2:6-23</bcv>), he
refutes the corruptions of true doctrine. (5) The efficient cause of our salvation is only the mercy of
God the Father, who makes us fit to be partakers of eternal life, delivering us from the darkness in
which we were born, and bringing us to the light of the knowledge of the glory of his Son.

(h) In that glorious and heavenly kingdom.
#BCV:Colossians 1:14
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:14>Colossians 1:14</verse></h3>

(6) In whom we have redemption through his blood, [even] the forgiveness of sins:

(6) The matter itself of our salvation is Christ the Son of God, who has obtained remission of sins
for us by the offering up of himself.
#BCV:Colossians 1:15
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:15>Colossians 1:15</verse></h3>

(7) Who is the image of the invisible God, (i) the firstborn of every creature:

<page=3113>(7) A graphic description of the person of Christ, by which we understand, that in him alone God
shows himself to be seen: who was begotten of the Father before anything was made, that is, from
everlasting. And by him also all things that are made, were made without any exception, by whom
also they continue to exist, and whose glory they serve.

(i) Begotten before anything was made: and therefore the everlasting Son of the everlasting Father.
#BCV:Colossians 1:16
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:16>Colossians 1:16</verse></h3>

For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible,
whether [they be] (k) thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by
him, and for him:

(k) He sets forth the angels with glorious names, so that by the comparison of most excellent spirits,
we may understand how far surpassing the excellency of Christ is, in whom alone we have to
content ourselves with, and let go of all angels.
#BCV:Colossians 1:18
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:18>Colossians 1:18</verse></h3>

(8) And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the (l) firstborn from the dead;
that in all [things] he might have the preeminence.

(8) Having gloriously declared the excellent dignity of the person of Christ, he describes his office
and function, that is, that he is the same to the Church as the head is to the body, that is to say, the
prince and governor of it, and the very beginning of true life. And as he rose first from death, he is
the author of eternal life, so that he is above all, in whom alone there is most plentiful abundance of
all good things, which is poured out upon the Church.

(l) Who so rose again that he should die no more, and who raises others from death to life by his
power.
#BCV:Colossians 1:19
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:19>Colossians 1:19</verse></h3>

For it pleased [the Father] that in him should (m) all fulness dwell;

(m) Most plentiful abundance of all things pertaining to God.
#BCV:Colossians 1:20
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:20>Colossians 1:20</verse></h3>

(9) And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile (n) all things unto
himself; by him, [I say], whether [they be] things in earth, or things in heaven.

(9) Now he teaches how Christ executed that office which his Father gave and commanded to him,
that is, by suffering the death of the cross (which was joined with the curse of God) according to his
<page=3114>decree, that by this sacrifice he might reconcile to his Father all men, both those who believed in the
Christ to come, and were already under this hope gathered into heaven, as well as those who should
upon the earth believe in him afterwards. And in this way justification is described by the apostle,
which is one and the chiefest part of the benefit of Christ.

(n) The whole Church.
#BCV:Colossians 1:21
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:21>Colossians 1:21</verse></h3>

(10) And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in [your] mind by wicked works, yet now
hath (o) he reconciled

(10) Sanctification is another work of God in us by Christ, in that that he restored us (who hated
God extremely and were wholly and willingly given to sin) to his gracious favour in such a way that
he in addition purifies us with his Holy Spirit, and consecrates us to righteousness.

(o) The Son.
#BCV:Colossians 1:22
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:22>Colossians 1:22</verse></h3>

In the body of his (p) flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable
in his sight:

(p) In that fleshly body, to show us that his body was not an unreal body, but a real one.
#BCV:Colossians 1:23
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:23>Colossians 1:23</verse></h3>

(11) If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and [be] not moved away from the hope of the
gospel, which ye have heard, [and] which was preached to (q) every creature which is under heaven;

(12) whereof I Paul am made a minister;

(11) The second treatise of this part of the epistle, in which he exhorts the Colossians not to allow
themselves by any means to be moved from this doctrine, showing and declaring that there is
nowhere else any other true Gospel.

(q) To all men: by which we learn that the Gospel was not confined to Judea alone.

(12) He gains authority for this doctrine by his apostleship, and takes a most sure proof of it, that is,
his afflictions, which he suffers for Christ's name, to instruct the Churches with these examples of
patience.
#BCV:Colossians 1:24
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:24>Colossians 1:24</verse></h3>

Who now rejoice in my sufferings for (r) you, and fill up (s) that which is behind of the afflictions
of Christ in my flesh for his body's sake, which is the church:

<page=3115>(r) For our profit and benefit.

(s) The afflictions of the Church are said to be Christ's afflictions, by reason of that fellowship and
knitting together that the body and the head have with one another. And this is not because there is
any more need to have the Church redeemed, but because Christ shows his power in the daily
weakness of his own, and that for the comfort of the whole body.
#BCV:Colossians 1:25
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:25>Colossians 1:25</verse></h3>

(13) Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for
you, to fulfil the word of God;

(13) He brings another proof of his apostleship, that is, that God is the author of it, by whom also
he was appointed especially as apostle for the Gentiles, to the end that by this means, that same
might be fulfilled by him, which the Prophets foretold concerning the calling of the Gentiles.
#BCV:Colossians 1:26
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:26>Colossians 1:26</verse></h3>

[Even] the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest
to his (t) saints:

(t) Whom he chose to sanctify to himself in Christ. Moreover, he says that the mystery of our
redemption was hidden since the world began, except that it was revealed to a few, who also were
taught it extraordinarily.
#BCV:Colossians 1:27
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:27>Colossians 1:27</verse></h3>

To whom God (u) would make known what [is] the riches of the glory of this mystery among the
Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

(u) In this way Paul restrains the curiosity of men.
#BCV:Colossians 1:28
<h3><verse=Colossians 1:28>Colossians 1:28</verse></h3>

(14) Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in (x) all wisdom; that we may
present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:

(14) He protests that he faithfully executes his apostleship in every place, bringing men to Christ
only through the Lord's plentiful blessing of his labours.

(x) Perfect and sound wisdom, which is perfect in itself, and will in the end make those perfect who
follow it.

<h2>Colossians 2</h2>

#BCV:Colossians 2:1
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:1>Colossians 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=3116>For I (1) would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you, and [for] them at Laodicea, and [for]
as many as have not seen my (a) face in the flesh;



(1) The taking away of an objection: in that he did not visit the Colossians or the Laodiceans, he was
not being negligent; rather, he is so much the more careful for them.



(a) Me, present in body.
#BCV:Colossians 2:2
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:2>Colossians 2:2</verse></h3>




(2) That (b) their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the (c)
full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father,
and of Christ;



(2) He concludes shortly the sum of the former doctrine, that is, that the whole sum of true wisdom,
and most secret knowledge of God, consists in Christ alone, and that this is the use of it with regard
to men, that they are knit together in love, and rest themselves happily in the knowledge of so great
a goodness, until they come to fully enjoy it.



(b) Whom, he never says.



(c) Of that understanding, which brings forth a certain and undoubted persuasion in our minds.
#BCV:Colossians 2:3
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:3>Colossians 2:3</verse></h3>



In whom are hid all the treasures of (d) wisdom and knowledge.



(d) There is no true wisdom outside of Christ.
#BCV:Colossians 2:4
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:4>Colossians 2:4</verse></h3>




(3) And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with (e) enticing words.



(3) A passing over to the treatise following, against the corruptions of Christianity.



(e) With a planned type of talk made to persuade.
#BCV:Colossians 2:5
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:5>Colossians 2:5</verse></h3>



For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your (f)
order, and the stedfastness of your (g) faith in Christ.

<page=3117>(f) The manner of your ecclesiastical discipline.



(g) Doctrine.
#BCV:Colossians 2:6
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:6>Colossians 2:6</verse></h3>



As ye have therefore (h) received Christ Jesus the Lord, [so] walk ye in him:



(h) So then Christ does not depend upon men's traditions.
#BCV:Colossians 2:8
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:8>Colossians 2:8</verse></h3>




(4) Beware lest any man (i) spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, (5) after the tradition of
men, (6) after the (k) rudiments of the world, (7) and not after Christ.



(4) He brings all corruptions under three types. The first is that which rests on vain and curious
speculations, and yet bears a show of certain subtle wisdom.



(i) This is a word of war, and it is as much as to drive or carry away a spoil or booty. (5) The second,
which is manifestly superstitious and vain, and stands only upon custom and pretended inspirations.



(6) The third type was of those who joined the rudiments of the world (that is to say, the
ceremonies of the Law) with the Gospel.



(k) Principles and rules, with which God ruled his Church, as it were under a schoolmaster. (7) A
general confutation of all corruptions is this, that if it adds anything to Christ, it must necessarily be
a false religion.
#BCV:Colossians 2:9
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:9>Colossians 2:9</verse></h3>




(8) For in (l) him (m) dwelleth (n) all the fulness of the Godhead (o) bodily.



(8) A reason: because only Christ, being God and man, is most perfect, and passes far above all
things, so that whoever has him, requires nothing more.



(l) By these words is shown a distinction of the natures.



(m) This word "dwelleth" notes out to us the joining together of those natures, so that God and
man, is one Christ.



(n) These words declare that the perfect Godhead is in Christ.



(o) The union of God and man, is substantial and essential.
#BCV:Colossians 2:11
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:11>Colossians 2:11</verse></h3>


<page=3118>(9) In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the (p)
body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ:



(9) Now he deals precisely against the third type, that is to say, against those who urged the Jewish
religion: and first of all, he denies that we have need of the circumcision of the flesh, seeing that
without it we are circumcised within, by the power of Christ.



(p) These many words are used to show what the old man is, whom Paul in other places calls the
body of sin.
#BCV:Colossians 2:12
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:12>Colossians 2:12</verse></h3>




(10) (q) Buried with (r) him in baptism, (11) wherein also ye are risen with [him] through the faith of
the operation of (s) God, who hath raised him from the dead.



(10) The taking away of an objection: we do not need an external sign to the extent which our
fathers had, seeing that our baptism is a most effectual pledge and witness, of that inward restoring
and renewing.



(q) See (<bcv=Rom 6:4>Rom 6:4</bcv>).



(r) So then all the force of the matter comes not from the very deed done, that is to say, it is not the
dipping of us into the water by a minister that makes us to be buried with Christ, as the papists say,
that even by the very act's sake we become very Christians, but it comes from the power of Christ,
for the apostle adds the resurrection of Christ, and faith.



(11) One purpose of baptism is to symbolise the death and burial of the old man, and that by the
mighty power of God alone, whose power we lay hold on by faith, in the death and resurrection of
Christ.



(s) Through faith which comes from God.
#BCV:Colossians 2:13
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:13>Colossians 2:13</verse></h3>




(12) And you, being dead in your sins (13) and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath he quickened
together with him, having forgiven you all trespasses;



(12) Another thing baptism symbolises is, that we who were dead in sin, might obtain free remission
of sins and eternal life, through faith in Christ who died for us.



(13) A new argument which lies in these few words, and it is this: uncircumcision was no hindrance
to you in obtaining life, because you were justified in Christ; therefore you do not need circumcision
for the attainment of salvation.
#BCV:Colossians 2:14
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:14>Colossians 2:14</verse></h3>


<page=3119>(14) Blotting out the (t) handwriting of ordinances that was against us, which was contrary to us, and
took it out of the way, nailing it to his cross;



(14) He speaks now more generally against the whole service of the Law, and shows by two reasons,
that it is abolished. First, to what purpose would he that has obtained remission of all his sins in
Christ, require those helps of the Law? Secondly, because if a man rightly considers those rites, he
will find that they were so many testimonies of our guiltiness, by which we manifestly witnessed as it
were by our own handwritings, that we deserved damnation. Therefore Christ put out that
handwriting by his coming, and fastening it to the cross, triumphed over all our enemies, were they
ever so mighty. Therefore to what end and purpose should we now use those ceremonies, as though
we were still guilty of sin, and subject to the tyranny of our enemies?



(t) Abolishing the rites and ceremonies.
#BCV:Colossians 2:15
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:15>Colossians 2:15</verse></h3>



[And] having spoiled (u) principalities and powers, he (x) made a shew of them openly, triumphing
over them in (y) it.



(u) Satan and his angels.



(x) As a conqueror he made show of those captives, and put them to shame.



(y) That is, the cross. The cross was a chariot of triumph. No conqueror could have triumphed so
gloriously in his chariot, as Christ did upon the cross.
#BCV:Colossians 2:16
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:16>Colossians 2:16</verse></h3>




(15) Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new
moon, or of the sabbath [days]:



(15) The conclusion: in which also he means certain types, as the difference of days, and meats, and
proves by a new argument, that we are not bound to them: that is, because those things were
shadows of Christ to come, but now we possess him who was exhibited to us.
#BCV:Colossians 2:17
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:17>Colossians 2:17</verse></h3>



Which are a shadow of things to come; but the (z) body [is] of Christ.



(z) The body as a thing of substance and physical strength, he sets against shadows.
#BCV:Colossians 2:18
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:18>Colossians 2:18</verse></h3>




(16) Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary (a) humility and worshipping of angels,



(17) intruding into those things which he hath not seen, (18) (b) vainly puffed up by his fleshly mind,

<page=3120>(16) He disputes against the first type of corruptions, and sets down the worshipping of angels as an
example: which type of false religion he refutes, first, this way: because those who bring in such a
worship, attribute that to themselves which is proper only to God, that is, authority to bind men's
consciences with religion, even though they seem to bring in these things by humility of mind.



(a) By foolish humility of mind: for otherwise humility is a virtue. For these angel worshippers
blamed those of pride who would go straight to God, and use no other means besides Christ.



(17) Secondly, because they rashly thrust upon them as oracles those things which they neither saw
nor heard, but devised by themselves.



(18) Thirdly, because these things have no other ground upon which they are built, but only the
opinion of men, who please themselves immensely in their own devices.



(b) Without reason.
#BCV:Colossians 2:19
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:19>Colossians 2:19</verse></h3>




(19) And not holding the (c) Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment
ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of (d) God.



(19) The fourth argument, which is of great weight: because they rob Christ of his dignity, who
alone is sufficient both to nourish and also to increase his whole body.



(c) Christ.



(d) With the increasing which comes from God.
#BCV:Colossians 2:20
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:20>Colossians 2:20</verse></h3>




(20) Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, (e) as though living
in the world, are ye subject to ordinances,



(20) Now last of all he fights against the second type of corruptions, that is to say, against mere
superstitions, invented by men, which partly deceive the simplicity of some with their craftiness, and
partly with their foolish superstitions and to be laughed at: as when godliness, remission of sins, or
any such like virtue, is put in some certain type of meat, and such like things, which the inventors of
such rites themselves do not understand, because indeed it is not there. And he uses an argument
taken of comparison. If by the death of Christ who established a new covenant with his blood, you
are delivered from those external rites with which it pleased the Lord to prepare the world, as it were
by certain rudiments, to that full knowledge of true religion, why would you be burdened with
traditions, I know not what, as though you were citizens of this world, that is to say, as though you
depended upon this life, and earthly things? Now this is the reason why before verse eight he
followed another order than he does in the refutation: because he shows by this what degrees false
religions came into the world, that is, beginning first by curious speculations of the wise, after which
in process of time succeeded gross superstition, against which mischiefs the Lord set at length that
<page=3121>service of the Law, which some abused in like sort. But in the refutation he began with the
abolishing of the Law service, that he might show by comparison, that those false services ought
much more to be taken away.



(e) As though your felicity stood in these earthly things, and the kingdom of God was not rather
spiritual.
#BCV:Colossians 2:21
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:21>Colossians 2:21</verse></h3>




(21) (Touch not; taste not; handle not;



(21) An imitation of these superstitious men, rightly expressing their nature and use of speech.
#BCV:Colossians 2:22
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:22>Colossians 2:22</verse></h3>




(22) Which all are to perish with the using;) (23) after the commandments and doctrines of men?



(22) Another argument: the spiritual and inward kingdom of God cannot consist in these outward
things, which perish with the using.



(23) The third argument: because God is not the author of these traditions, therefore they are not
that which we are obligated to do.
#BCV:Colossians 2:23
<h3><verse=Colossians 2:23>Colossians 2:23</verse></h3>




(24) Which things have indeed a shew of (f) wisdom in (g) will worship, and humility, and (h)
neglecting of the body; not in any honour to the (i) satisfying of the flesh.



(24) The taking away of an objection. These things have a good appearance, because men by this
means seem to worship God with a good mind, and humble themselves, and neglect the body, which
the most part of men curiously pamper and cherish. But yet nonetheless the things themselves are
of no value, for they do not pertain to the things that are spiritual and everlasting, but to the
nourishment of the flesh.



(f) Which seem indeed to be some exquisite thing, and such wise devices as though they came from
heaven.



(g) From here sprang the works of supererogation, as the papists call them, that is to say, works that
form a reserve fund of merit that can be drawn on in favour of sinners, as though men performed
more than is commanded them: which was the beginning and the very ground upon which monk's
merits were brought in.



(h) A graphic description of monasticism.



(i) Seeing they stand in meat and drink, in which the kingdom of God does not stand.

<h2>Colossians 3</h2>

#BCV:Colossians 3:1
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:1>Colossians 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=3122>If (1) ye then (2) be (a) risen with Christ, (3) seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth
on the right hand of God.



(1) Another part of this epistle, in which he takes occasion by reason of those vain exercises, to
show the duty of a Christian life: which is an ordinary thing with him, after he has once set down
the doctrine itself. (2) Our renewing or new birth, which is accomplished in us by being partakers of
the resurrection of Christ, is the source of all holiness, out of which various streams or rivers
afterwards flow.



(a) For if we are partakers of Christ, we are carried as it were into another life, where we will need
neither meat nor drink, for we will be similar to the angels. (3) The end and mark which all the
duties of Christian life aim at is to enter into the kingdom of heaven, and to give ourselves to those
things which lead us there, that is, to true godliness, and not to those outward and physical things.
#BCV:Colossians 3:2
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:2>Colossians 3:2</verse></h3>



Set your affection on things above, not on things on the (b) earth.



(b) So he calls that show of religion which he spoke of in the former chapter.
#BCV:Colossians 3:3
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:3>Colossians 3:3</verse></h3>




(4) For ye are dead, (5) and your life is hid with Christ in God.



(4) A reason taken of the efficient causes and others: you are dead with regard to the flesh, that is,
with regard to the old nature which seeks after all transitory things. And on the other hand, you have
begun to live according to the Spirit; therefore give yourselves to spiritual and heavenly, and not to
carnal and earthly things. (5) The taking away of an objection: while we are yet in this world, we are
subject to many miseries of this life, so that the life that is in us, is as it were hidden. Yet nonetheless
we have the beginnings of life and glory, the accomplishment of which lies now in Christ's and in
God's hand, and will assuredly and manifestly be performed in the glorious coming of the Lord.
#BCV:Colossians 3:5
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:5>Colossians 3:5</verse></h3>




(6) Mortify therefore your (c) members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness,
inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:



(6) Let not your dead nature be effectual in you any more, but let your living nature be effectual.
Now the strength of nature is known by the desires. Therefore let the affections of the world die in
<page=3123>you, and let the contrary desires which are spiritual, live. And he reckons up a great long list of vices,
and their contrary virtues.



(c) The desires and lusts that are in us, are in this passage very properly called members, because the
reason and will of man is corrupted, and uses them as the body uses its members.
#BCV:Colossians 3:6
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:6>Colossians 3:6</verse></h3>



For which things' sake the wrath of God (d) cometh on the children of disobedience:



(d) Used to come.
#BCV:Colossians 3:9
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:9>Colossians 3:9</verse></h3>



Lie not one to another, (7) seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;



(7) A definition of our new birth taken from the parts of it, which are the putting off of the old
man, that is to say, of the wickedness which is in us by nature, and the restoring and repairing of the
new man, that is to say, of the pureness which is given us by grace. However, both the putting off
and the putting on are only begun in us in this present life, and by certain degrees finished, the one
dying in us by little and little, and the other coming to the perfection of another life, by little and
little.
#BCV:Colossians 3:10
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:10>Colossians 3:10</verse></h3>



And have put on the new [man], (8) which is renewed in (e) knowledge after the image of him that
created him:



(8) Newness of life consists in knowledge which transforms man to the image of God his maker,
that is to say to the sincerity and pureness of the whole soul.



(e) He speaks of an effectual knowledge.
#BCV:Colossians 3:11
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:11>Colossians 3:11</verse></h3>




(9) Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian,
bond [nor] free: but Christ [is] all, and in all.



(9) He tells them again that the Gospel does not refer to those external things, but true justification
and sanctification in Christ alone, which have many fruits, as he reckons them up here: but he
commends two things especially, that is, godly harmony, and continual study of God's word.
#BCV:Colossians 3:12
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:12>Colossians 3:12</verse></h3>


<page=3124>(f) Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, (g) bowels of mercies, kindness,
humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;



(f) Put on in such a way, that you never put off.



(g) Those most tender affections of exceeding compassion.
#BCV:Colossians 3:14
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:14>Colossians 3:14</verse></h3>



And above all these things [put on] charity, which is the (h) bond of perfectness.



(h) Which bonds and knits together all the duties that take place between men.
#BCV:Colossians 3:15
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:15>Colossians 3:15</verse></h3>



And let the peace of God (i) rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in (k) one body; and
be ye thankful.



(i) Rule and govern all things.



(k) You are joined together into one body through God's goodness, so that you might help one
another, as fellow members.
#BCV:Colossians 3:16
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:16>Colossians 3:16</verse></h3>



Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in (l)
psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.



(l) By "psalms" he means all godly songs which were written upon various occasions, and by
"hymns", all such as contain the praise of God, and by "spiritual songs", other more special and
artful songs which were also in praise of God, but they were made fuller of music.
#BCV:Colossians 3:17
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:17>Colossians 3:17</verse></h3>



And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, [do] all in the (m) name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to
God and the Father by him.



(m) Call upon the name of Christ when you do it, or do it to Christ's praise and glory.
#BCV:Colossians 3:18
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:18>Colossians 3:18</verse></h3>




(10) Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is (n) fit in the Lord.



(10) He goes from precepts which concern the whole civil life of man, to precepts pertaining to
every man's family, and requires of wives subjection in the Lord.

<page=3125>(n) For those wives do poorly, that do not set God in Christ before them in their love; but this
philosophy does not know.
#BCV:Colossians 3:19
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:19>Colossians 3:19</verse></h3>




(11) Husbands, love [your] wives, and be not bitter against them.



(11) He requires of husbands that they love their wives, and treat them gently.
#BCV:Colossians 3:20
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:20>Colossians 3:20</verse></h3>




(12) Children, obey [your] parents in (o) all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.



(12) He requires of children, that according to God's commandment they are obedient to their
parents.



(o) In the Lord; and so it is expounded in (<bcv=Eph 6:1>Eph 6:1</bcv>).
#BCV:Colossians 3:21
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:21>Colossians 3:21</verse></h3>




(13) Fathers, provoke not your children [to anger], lest they be discouraged.



(13) Of parents, that they are gentle towards their children.
#BCV:Colossians 3:22
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:22>Colossians 3:22</verse></h3>




(14) Servants, obey in all things [your] masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as
menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:



(14) Of servants, that fearing God himself to whom their obedience is acceptable, they reverently,
faithfully, and from the heart, obey their masters.
#BCV:Colossians 3:24
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:24>Colossians 3:24</verse></h3>



Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the (p) reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord
Christ.



(p) Because you will have duly obeyed your masters, the time will come, that you will be changed
from servants to sons, and you will know this for certain, which will be when you are made partakers
of the heavenly inheritance.
#BCV:Colossians 3:25
<h3><verse=Colossians 3:25>Colossians 3:25</verse></h3>


<page=3126>(15) But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect
of persons.



(15) He requires of masters, that being mindful how they themselves also will render an account
before that heavenly Lord and Master, who will avenge wrongful deeds without any respect of
masters or servants, they show themselves just and upright with fairness to their servants.

<h2>Colossians 4</h2>

#BCV:Colossians 4:2
<h3><verse=Colossians 4:2>Colossians 4:2</verse></h3>


<page=3127>(1) (2) Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;



(1) He adds certain general exhortations, and at length ends his epistle with various familiar and
godly salutations. (2) Prayers must be continual and earnest.
#BCV:Colossians 4:3
<h3><verse=Colossians 4:3>Colossians 4:3</verse></h3>




(3) Withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a (a) door of utterance, to speak the
mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds:



(3) Those who minister the word, must especially be entrusted to the prayers of the Church.



(a) An open and free mouth to preach the Gospel.
#BCV:Colossians 4:5
<h3><verse=Colossians 4:5>Colossians 4:5</verse></h3>




(4) Walk (b) in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the (c) time.



(4) In all parts of our life, we ought to have good consideration even of those who are outside of
the Church.



(b) Advisedly and cautiously.



(c) Seek occasion to win them, even though you lose something of your own by it.
#BCV:Colossians 4:6
<h3><verse=Colossians 4:6>Colossians 4:6</verse></h3>




(5) Let your speech [be] alway with (d) grace, seasoned with (e) salt, that ye may know how ye ought
to answer every man.



(5) Our speech and talk must be applied to the profit of the hearers.



(d) Fit for the profit of your neighbour.



(e) Against this is set filthy communication, as in (<bcv=Eph 4:29>Eph 4:29</bcv>).
#BCV:Colossians 4:11
<h3><verse=Colossians 4:11>Colossians 4:11</verse></h3>



And Jesus, which is called Justus, who are of the circumcision. These (f) only [are my] fellowworkers
unto the (g) kingdom of God, which have been a comfort unto me.



(f) Hence, Peter was not at that time in Rome.

<page=3128>(g) In the Gospel.

<h1>1 Thessalonians</h1>


<h2>1 Thessalonians 1</h2>

#BCV:1 Thessalonians 1:2
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 1:2>1 Thessalonians 1:2</verse></h3>


<page=3129>(1) We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers;



(1) An example of proper Christian rejoicing, by which also we learn, that those who have great gifts
in them, are in two ways governed: first, if they consider that they have received all from God, and
second, that continuance must be desired at his hands. And to these things this whole epistle exhorts
the Thessalonians.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 1:3
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 1:3>1 Thessalonians 1:3</verse></h3>




(2) Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in
our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;



(2) He commends them for three special gifts: effectual faith, continual love, and patient hope. And
he does this to the end that they might be ashamed, being endued with such excellent gifts, not to
continue in God's election.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 1:4
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 1:4>1 Thessalonians 1:4</verse></h3>



Knowing, brethren beloved, your (a) election of God.



(a) Literally, "that your election is of God".
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 1:5
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 1:5>1 Thessalonians 1:5</verse></h3>




(3) For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in



(b) much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.



(3) Another reason why they ought in no way start back but continue to the end, because they
cannot doubt this doctrine which has been so many ways confirmed to them, even from heaven, as
they themselves well knew.



(b) Paul shows by two things that there followed very great fruit from his preaching, that is, by these
gifts of the Holy Spirit, and that certain assurance which was thoroughly settled in their minds, as
appeared by their willingly bearing the cross.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 1:6
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 1:6>1 Thessalonians 1:6</verse></h3>


<page=3130>(4) And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction,
with (c) joy of the Holy Ghost:



(4) Another reason, because even to that day they embraced the Gospel with great cheerfulness,
insomuch that they were an example to all their neighbours: so that it would be more shameful for
them to faint in the middle of the race.



(c) With joy which comes from the Holy Spirit.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 1:9
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 1:9>1 Thessalonians 1:9</verse></h3>



For (d) they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, (5) and how ye
turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God;



(d) All the believers. (5) It is no true conversion to forsake idols, unless a man in addition worships
the true and living God in Christ the only Redeemer.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 1:10
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 1:10>1 Thessalonians 1:10</verse></h3>



And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, [even] Jesus, which delivered
us from (e) the wrath to come.



(e) This word "the" is not put here without reason: and by "wrath" is meant that revenge and
punishment with which the Lord will in time judge the world in his terrible wrath.

<h2>1 Thessalonians 2</h2>

#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:1
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:1>1 Thessalonians 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=3131>For (1) yourselves, brethren, know our entrance in unto you, that it was not in vain:



(1) That which he mentioned before briefly concerning his apostleship, he handles now more at
large, and to that end and purpose which we spoke of.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:2
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:2>1 Thessalonians 2:2</verse></h3>




(2) But even after that we had suffered before, and were shamefully entreated, as ye know, at Philippi,
we were bold in (a) our God to speak unto you the gospel of God with much contention.



(2) The virtues of a true pastor are freely without fear to preach the Gospel, even in the midst of
dangers.



(a) Through God's gracious help.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:3
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:3>1 Thessalonians 2:3</verse></h3>




(3) For our exhortation [was] not of deceit, nor of (b) uncleanness, nor in guile:



(3) To teach pure doctrine faithfully and with a pure heart.



(b) By any wicked and evil type of dealing.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:4
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:4>1 Thessalonians 2:4</verse></h3>




(4) But as we were (c) allowed of God to be put in trust with the gospel, even so we speak; not as
pleasing men, but God, which (d) trieth our hearts.



(4) To approve his conscience to God, being free from all flattery and covetousness.



(c) There is this difference between the judgments of God and the judgments of men, that when
men choose, they give regard to the qualities of those things which stand before them, but God
finds the reason of his counsel only in himself. Therefore, it follows that seeing as we are not able to
think a good thought, that whoever he first chooses to those callings, he does not find them able but
indeed makes them able. And therefore in that we are empowered of God, it depends upon his
mercy.



(d) Who approves and allows them.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:6
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:6>1 Thessalonians 2:6</verse></h3>


<page=3132>(5) Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor [yet] of others, when we might have been (e)
burdensome, as the apostles of Christ.



(5) To submit himself even to the basest, to win them, and to avoid all pride.



(e) When I might lawfully have lived upon the expenses of the churches.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:7
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:7>1 Thessalonians 2:7</verse></h3>



But we were (f) gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children:



(f) We were rough, and yet easy and gentle as a nurse that is neither seeking glory, nor covetous, but
who takes all pains as patiently as if she were a mother.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:8
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:8>1 Thessalonians 2:8</verse></h3>




(6) So being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the
gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us.



(6) To consider the flock that is committed to him as more important than his own life.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:9
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:9>1 Thessalonians 2:9</verse></h3>




(7) For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would
not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.



(7) To let go of his own rights, rather than to be a cost to his sheep.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:10
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:10>1 Thessalonians 2:10</verse></h3>




(8) Ye [are] witnesses, and God [also], how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves
among you that believe:



(8) To excel others in the example of a godly life.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:11
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:11>1 Thessalonians 2:11</verse></h3>




(9) As ye know how we exhorted and comforted and charged every one of you, as a father [doth] his
children,



(9) To exhort and comfort with a fatherly mind and affection.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:12
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:12>1 Thessalonians 2:12</verse></h3>




(10) That ye would walk worthy of God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.

<page=3133>(10) To exhort all men diligently and earnestly to lead a godly life.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:13
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:13>1 Thessalonians 2:13</verse></h3>




(11) For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God
which ye heard of us, ye received [it] not [as] the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God,
which effectually worketh also in you that believe.



(11) Having approved his ministry, he commends again (to that end and purpose that I spoke of) the
cheerfulness of the Thessalonians which was due to his diligence in preaching, and their brave
patience.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:14
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:14>1 Thessalonians 2:14</verse></h3>




(12) For ye, brethren, became followers of the churches of God which in Judaea are in (g) Christ
Jesus: for ye also have suffered like things of your own (h) countrymen, even as they [have] of the
Jews:



(12) He strengthens and encourages them in their afflictions which they suffered among their own
people, because they were afflicted by their own countrymen. And this happened, he says, to the
churches of the Jews, as well as to them: and therefore they ought to take it in good part.



(g) Which Christ has gathered together.



(h) Even from those who are from the same country and the same town that you are from.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:15
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:15>1 Thessalonians 2:15</verse></h3>




(13) Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own prophets, and have persecuted us; (14) and they
please not God, and are contrary to (i) all men:



(13) He prevents an offence which might be taken, because the Jews especially above all others
persecuted the Gospel. That is no new thing, he says, seeing that they slew Christ himself, and his
Prophets, and have banished me also.



(14) He foretells the utter destruction of the Jews, lest any man should be moved by their rebellion.



(i) For the Jews would neither enter into the kingdom of God themselves, nor allow others to enter
in.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:16
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:16>1 Thessalonians 2:16</verse></h3>



Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved, to (k) fill up their sins alway: for the



(l) wrath is come upon them to the uttermost.

<page=3134>(k) Until that wickedness of theirs which they have by inheritance as it were of their fathers, has
grown so great, that the measure of their iniquity being filled, God may come forth to wrath.



(l) The judgment of God who was angry, which indeed appeared shortly after in the destruction of
the city of Jerusalem, where many fled even out of various provinces, when it was besieged.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 2:17
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 2:17>1 Thessalonians 2:17</verse></h3>




(15) But we, brethren, (m) being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart,
endeavoured the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.



(15) He meets with an objection, why he did not come to them immediately, being in such great
misery: I often desired to, he says, and I was not able, but Satan hindered my endeavours, and
therefore I sent Timothy my faithful companion to you, because you are most dear to me.



(m) Were kept apart from you, and as it were orphans.

<h2>1 Thessalonians 3</h2>

#BCV:1 Thessalonians 3:3
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 3:3>1 Thessalonians 3:3</verse></h3>

<page=3135>That no man should be moved by these afflictions: (1) for yourselves know that we are appointed
thereunto.



(1) The will of God, who calls his own on this condition, to bring them to glory by affliction, is a
most sure remedy against all afflictions.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 3:6
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 3:6>1 Thessalonians 3:6</verse></h3>




(2) But now when Timotheus came from you unto us, and brought us good tidings of your faith and
charity, and that ye have good remembrance of us always, desiring greatly to see us, as we also [to
see] you:



(2) Because they have to this point gone so well forward, he exhorts them again to make an end of
the rest of the journey, seeing that in doing so they will do him their apostle a great pleasure.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 3:8
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 3:8>1 Thessalonians 3:8</verse></h3>



For now we (a) live, if ye stand fast in the Lord.



(a) For now you cannot otherwise think of me as at rest and in a good state of being, unless you go
forward in religion and faith.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 3:10
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 3:10>1 Thessalonians 3:10</verse></h3>



Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might (b) perfect that which is
lacking in your faith?



(b) Paul was forced through the pressing dealing of the enemies to leave the building which he had
just begun: and for that reason he had left Silas and Timothy in Macedonia, and when Timothy came
to Athens to him, he sent him back again immediately. So that he desires to see the Thessalonians,
that he may thoroughly perfect their faith and religion, that was as yet imperfect.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 3:12
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 3:12>1 Thessalonians 3:12</verse></h3>




(3) And the Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another, and toward all [men],
even as we [do] toward you:



(3) Another part of the epistle, in which he speaks of the duties of a Christian life. And he shows
that the perfection of a Christian life consists in two things, that is, in charity toward all men, and
inward purity of the heart. And the accomplishment of these things is nonetheless deferred to the
<page=3136>next coming of Christ, who will then perfect his work by the same grace with which he began it in
us.

<h2>1 Thessalonians 4</h2>

#BCV:1 Thessalonians 4:1
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 4:1>1 Thessalonians 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=3137>Furthermore (1) then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort [you] by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have
received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, [so] ye would (a) abound more and more.



(1) Various exhortations, the foundation of which is this, to be mindful of those things which they
have heard from the apostle.



(a) That you labour to excel more and more, and daily surpass yourselves.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 4:3
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 4:3>1 Thessalonians 4:3</verse></h3>




(2) For this is the will of God, [even] your (b) sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:



(2) This is the sum of those things which he delivered to them, to dedicate themselves wholly to
God. And he plainly condemns all filthiness through lust, because it is altogether contrary to the will
of God.



(b) See (<bcv=John 17:17>Joh 17:17</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 4:4
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 4:4>1 Thessalonians 4:4</verse></h3>




(3) That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;



(3) Another reason, because it defiles the body.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 4:5
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 4:5>1 Thessalonians 4:5</verse></h3>




(4) Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God:



(4) The third, because the saints are distinguished by honesty and purity from those who do not
know God.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 4:6
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 4:6>1 Thessalonians 4:6</verse></h3>




(5) That no [man] go beyond and defraud his brother in [any] matter: because that the Lord [is] the
avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified.



(5) Secondly, he reprehends all violent oppression, and immoderate desire, and shows most severely
as the Prophet of God, that God will avenge such wickedness.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 4:8
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 4:8>1 Thessalonians 4:8</verse></h3>

<page=3138>He therefore that (c) despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his holy
Spirit.



(c) These commandments which I gave you.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 4:9
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 4:9>1 Thessalonians 4:9</verse></h3>




(6) But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of
God to love one another.



(6) Thirdly, he requires a ready mind to every manner of lovingkindness, and exhorts them to profit
more and more in that virtue.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 4:11
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 4:11>1 Thessalonians 4:11</verse></h3>




(7) And that ye study to be quiet, (8) and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands,
as we commanded you;



(7) He condemns unsettled minds, and such as are curious in matters which do not concern them. (8)
He rebukes idleness and slothfulness: and whoever is given to these vices, fall into other wickedness,
to the great offence of the Church.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 4:13
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 4:13>1 Thessalonians 4:13</verse></h3>




(9) But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, (10) concerning them (11) which are asleep,
that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.



(9) The third part of the epistle, which is mixed in among the former exhortations (which he returns
to afterwards), in which he speaks of mourning for the dead, and the manner of the resurrection,
and of the latter day.



(10) We must take heed that we do not immoderately mourn for the dead, that is, as those do who
think that the dead are utterly perished.



(11) A confirmation: for death is but a sleep of the body (for he speaks of the faithful) until the
Lord comes.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 4:14
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 4:14>1 Thessalonians 4:14</verse></h3>




(12) For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in (d) Jesus will
God (e) bring with him.



(12) A reason for the confirmation, for seeing that the head is risen, the members also will rise, and
that by the power of God.

<page=3139>(d) The dead in Christ, who continue in faith by which they are ingrafted into Christ, even to the last
breath.



(e) Will call their bodies out of their graves, and join their souls to them again.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 4:15
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 4:15>1 Thessalonians 4:15</verse></h3>




(13) For this we say unto you by the (f) word of the Lord, that (g) we which are alive [and] remain
unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.



(13) The manner of the resurrection will be in this way: the bodies of the dead will be as it were
raised out of sleep at the sound of the trumpet of God. Christ himself will descend from heaven.
The saints (for he is referring to them) who will then be found alive, together with the dead who will
rise, will be taken up into the clouds to meet the Lord, and will be in perpetual glory with him.



(f) In the name of the Lord, as though he himself spoke to you.



(g) He speaks of these things, as though he should be one of those whom the Lord will find alive at
his coming, because the time of his coming is uncertain: and therefore every one of us ought to be
in such a readiness, as if the Lord were coming at any moment.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 4:16
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 4:16>1 Thessalonians 4:16</verse></h3>



For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a (h) shout, with the voice of the archangel,
and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:



(h) The word which the apostle uses here, properly signifies that encouragement which mariners give
to one another, when they altogether with one shout put forth their oars and row together.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 4:17
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 4:17>1 Thessalonians 4:17</verse></h3>



Then we which are alive [and] remain shall be (i) caught up together with them in the clouds, to
meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.



(i) Suddenly and in the twinkling of an eye.

<h2>1 Thessalonians 5</h2>

#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:1
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:1>1 Thessalonians 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=3140>But (1) of the times and the (a) seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.



(1) The day that God has appointed for this judgment we do not know. But this is sure, that it will
come upon men when they are not expecting it.



(a) See (<bcv=Acts 1:7>Act 1:7</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:4
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:4>1 Thessalonians 5:4</verse></h3>




(2) But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.



(2) Returning to exhortations, he warns us who are enlightened with the knowledge of God, that it
is our duty not to live securely in pleasures, lest we be suddenly taken in a dead sleep in pleasures.
But contrary to this we are to have an eye to the Lord, and not allow ourselves to be oppressed with
the cares of this world, for pleasures are fitting for the darkness of the night, and having an eye to
the Lord is fitting for the light.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:8
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:8>1 Thessalonians 5:8</verse></h3>




(3) But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an
helmet, the hope of salvation.



(3) We must fight with faith and hope, and therefore we should certainly not lie snoring.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:9
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:9>1 Thessalonians 5:9</verse></h3>




(4) For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,



(4) He urges us forward by setting a most certain hope of victory before us.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:10
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:10>1 Thessalonians 5:10</verse></h3>




(5) Who died for us, that, whether we wake or sleep, we should live together with him.



(5) The death of Christ is a pledge of our victory, for he died so that we might be partakers of his
life of power, indeed even while we live here.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:11
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:11>1 Thessalonians 5:11</verse></h3>




(6) Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.

<page=3141>(6) We must not only watch ourselves, but we are also bound to stir up, and to strengthen and
encourage one another.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:12
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:12>1 Thessalonians 5:12</verse></h3>




(7) And we beseech you, brethren, to (b) know them which labour among you, and are over you in
the (c) Lord, and admonish you;



(7) We must have consideration of those who are appointed to the ministry of the word, and the
government of the church of God, and who do their duty.



(b) That you acknowledge and take them for such as they are, that is to say, men worthy to be greatly
esteemed of among you.



(c) In those things which pertain to God's service: so is the ecclesiastical function distinguished from
civil authority, and true shepherds from wolves.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:13
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:13>1 Thessalonians 5:13</verse></h3>



And to esteem them very highly in love for (d) their work's sake. (8) [And] be at peace among
yourselves.



(d) So then, when this reason ceases, then must the honour cease. (8) The maintenance of mutual
harmony, is to be especially guarded.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:14
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:14>1 Thessalonians 5:14</verse></h3>




(9) Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are (e) unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support
the weak, be patient toward all [men].



(9) We must have consideration of every man, and the remedy must be applied according to the
disease.



(e) That keep not their rank or standing.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:15
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:15>1 Thessalonians 5:15</verse></h3>




(10) See that none render evil for evil unto any [man]; but ever follow that which is good, both
among yourselves, and to all [men].



(10) Charity ought not to be overcome by any injuries.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:16
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:16>1 Thessalonians 5:16</verse></h3>




(11) Rejoice evermore.

<page=3142>(11) A quiet and appeased mind is nourished with continual prayers, giving regard to the will of God.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:18
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:18>1 Thessalonians 5:18</verse></h3>



In every thing give thanks: for this is the (f) will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.



(f) An acceptable thing to God, and such as he approves well of.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:19
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:19>1 Thessalonians 5:19</verse></h3>




(12) Quench not the Spirit.



(12) The sparks of the Spirit of God that are kindled in us, are nourished by daily hearing the word
of God: but true doctrine must be diligently distinguished from false.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:20
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:20>1 Thessalonians 5:20</verse></h3>



Despise not (g) prophesyings.



(g) The explaining and interpreting of the word of God.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:22
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:22>1 Thessalonians 5:22</verse></h3>




(13) Abstain from all (h) appearance of evil.



(13) A general conclusion, that we waiting for the coming of Christ, do give ourselves to pureness in
mind, will, and body, through the grace and strength of the Spirit of God.



(h) Whatever has but the very show of evil, abstain from it.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:23
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:23>1 Thessalonians 5:23</verse></h3>



And the very God of peace (i) sanctify you wholly; and [I pray God] your whole spirit and soul and
body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.



(i) Separate you from the world, and make you holy to himself through his Spirit, in Christ, in whom
alone you will attain to that true peace.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:24
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:24>1 Thessalonians 5:24</verse></h3>




(14) (k) Faithful [is] he that calleth you, who also will (l) do [it].



(14) The good will and power of God is a sure strengthening and encouragement against all
difficulties, of which we have a sure witness in our calling.

<page=3143>(k) Always one, and ever like himself, who indeed performs whatever he promises. And an effectual
calling is nothing else but a right declaring and true setting forth of God's will: and therefore the
salvation of the elect, is safe and sure.



(l) Who will also make you perfect.
#BCV:1 Thessalonians 5:25
<h3><verse=1 Thessalonians 5:25>1 Thessalonians 5:25</verse></h3>




(15) Brethren, pray for us.



(15) The last part of the epistle, in which with most authoritative charge he commends both himself
and this epistle to them.

<h2>2 Thessalonians 1</h2>

#BCV:2 Thessalonians 1:3
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 1:3>2 Thessalonians 1:3</verse></h3>


<page=3144>(1) We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith (a)
groweth exceedingly, and the charity of every one of you all toward each other aboundeth;



(1) The first part of the epistle, in which he rejoices that through the grace of God, they have
bravely sustained all the assaults of their enemies. And in this he strengthens and encourages them,
moreover showing with what gifts they must mainly fight, that is, with faith and charity, which must
daily increase.



(a) That whereas it grew up before, it does also receive some increase every day more and more.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 1:5
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 1:5>2 Thessalonians 1:5</verse></h3>




(2) [Which is] a manifest token of the righteous judgment of God, that ye may be counted worthy
of the kingdom of God, for which ye also suffer:



(2) He shows the source of all true comfort, that is, that in afflictions which we suffer from the
wicked for righteousness' sake, we may behold as it were in a mirror the testimony of that judgment
to come, the end of which is most acceptable to us, and most severe to his enemies.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 1:6
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 1:6>2 Thessalonians 1:6</verse></h3>




(3) Seeing [it is] a righteous thing with God to recompense tribulation to them that trouble you;



(3) A proof: God is just, and therefore he will worthily punish the unjust, and will do away the
miseries of his people.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 1:7
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 1:7>2 Thessalonians 1:7</verse></h3>



And to you who are troubled rest (4) with us, (5) when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven
with his mighty angels,



(4) He strengthens and encourages them also along the way by this means, that the condition both
of this present state and the state to come, is common to him with them. (5) A most glorious
description of the second coming of Christ, to be set against all the miseries of the godly, and the
triumphs of the wicked.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 1:8
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 1:8>2 Thessalonians 1:8</verse></h3>



In flaming fire taking vengeance on them (6) that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of
our Lord Jesus Christ:

<page=3145>(6) There is no knowledge of God to salvation, without the Gospel of Christ.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 1:10
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 1:10>2 Thessalonians 1:10</verse></h3>



When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe ((7)
because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.



(7) They are considered as children of God by the faith which they have in the Gospel, which is
preached to them by the apostles.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 1:11
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 1:11>2 Thessalonians 1:11</verse></h3>




(8) Wherefore also we pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of (b) [this] calling,
and fulfil (c) all the good pleasure of [his] goodness, and the (d) work of faith with power:



(8) Seeing that we have the mark set before us, it remains that we go to it. And we go to it, by certain
degrees of causes: first by the free love and good pleasure of God, by virtue of which all other
inferior causes work: from there proceeds the free calling to Christ, and from calling, faith, upon
which follows both the glorifying of Christ in us and us in Christ.



(b) By "calling" he does not mean the very act of calling, but that self same thing to which we are
called, which is the glory of that heavenly kingdom.



(c) Which he determined long ago, only upon his gracious and merciful goodness towards you.



(d) So then, faith is an excellent work of God in us: and we plainly see here that the apostle leaves
nothing to free will, to make it something which God works through, as the papists dream.

<h2>2 Thessalonians 2</h2>

#BCV:2 Thessalonians 2:1
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 2:1>2 Thessalonians 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=3146>Now (1) we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and [by] our (a)
gathering together unto him,



(1) The second part of the epistle, containing an excellent prophecy of the state of the Church,
which will be from the apostles time to the latter day of judgment.



(a) If we think earnestly upon that unmeasurable glory which we will be partakers of with Christ, it
will be an excellent remedy for us against wavering and impatience, so that neither the glistening of
the world will allure us, nor the dreadful sight of the cross dismay us.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 2:2
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 2:2>2 Thessalonians 2:2</verse></h3>




(2) That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by (b) spirit, nor by (c) word, nor by



(d) letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand.



(2) We must take heed of false prophets, especially in this matter, who go about to deceive, and that
for the most part, after three sorts: for either they brag of fake prophetical revelations, or they bring
conjectures and reasons of their own, or use counterfeit writings.



(b) By dreams and fables, which men pretend to be spiritual revelations.



(c) Either by word of mouth, or by written books.



(d) Either by forged letter, or falsely commented upon.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 2:3
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 2:3>2 Thessalonians 2:3</verse></h3>



Let no man deceive you by any means: (3) for [that day shall not come], except there come a falling
away first, and (e) that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;



(3) The apostle foretells that before the coming of the Lord, there will be a throne set up completely
contrary to Christ's glory, in which that wicked man will sit, and transfer all things that appertain to
God to himself: and many will fall away from God to him.



(e) By speaking of one, he singles out the person of the tyrannous and persecuting antichrist.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 2:4
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 2:4>2 Thessalonians 2:4</verse></h3>



Who opposeth and (f) exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; (4) so that
he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.

<page=3147>(f) All men know who he is that says he can shut up heaven and open it at his pleasure, and takes
upon himself to be lord and master above all kings and princes, before whom kings and princes fall
down and worship, honouring that antichrist as a god. (4) He foretells that the antichrist (that is,
whoever he is that will occupy that seat that falls away from God) will not reign outside of the
Church, but in the very bosom of the Church.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 2:5
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 2:5>2 Thessalonians 2:5</verse></h3>




(5) Remember ye not, that, when I was yet with you, I told you these things?



(5) This prophecy was continually declared to the ancient Church, but it was neglected by those that
followed.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 2:6
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 2:6>2 Thessalonians 2:6</verse></h3>



And now ye know (g) what withholdeth that he might be revealed in his time.



(g) What hinders and stops.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 2:7
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 2:7>2 Thessalonians 2:7</verse></h3>




(6) For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: (7) only he who now (h) letteth [will let], until he
be taken out of the way.



(6) Even in the apostles time the first foundations of the apostolic seat were laid, but yet so that they
deceived men. (7) He foretells that when the empire of Rome is taken away, the seat that falls away
from God will succeed and hold its place, as the old writers, Tertullian, Chrysostom, and Jerome
explain and interpret it.



(h) He who is now in authority and rules all, that is, the Roman Empire.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 2:8
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 2:8>2 Thessalonians 2:8</verse></h3>




(8) And then shall (i) that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall (k) consume with the (l) spirit of
his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming:



(8) That wickedness will at length be detected by the word of the Lord, and will utterly be abolished
by Christ's coming.



(i) Literally, "that lawless fellow", that is to say, he that will completely tread upon God's law.



(k) Bring to nothing.

<page=3148>(l) With his word, for the true ministers of the word are as a mouth, by which the Lord breathes out
that mighty and everlasting word, which will break his enemies apart, as though the word were an
iron rod.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 2:9
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 2:9>2 Thessalonians 2:9</verse></h3>




(9) [Even him], whose coming is after the working of Satan with all power and signs and (m) lying
wonders,



(9) He foretells that Satan will bestow all his might and power, and use all false miracles that he can
to establish that seat, and that with great success, because the wickedness of the world does so
deserve it: yet in such a way that only the unfaithful will perish through his deceit.



(m) Which are partly false, and partly done to establish a falsehood.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 2:11
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 2:11>2 Thessalonians 2:11</verse></h3>



And for this cause God shall send them (n) strong delusion, that they should believe a lie:



(n) A most mighty working to deceive them.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 2:12
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 2:12>2 Thessalonians 2:12</verse></h3>



That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but (o) had pleasure in unrighteousness.



(o) They liked lies so much that they had pleasure in them, which is the greatest madness that may
exist.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 2:13
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 2:13>2 Thessalonians 2:13</verse></h3>




(10) But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because
God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through (p) sanctification of the Spirit and (q)
belief of the truth:



(10) The elect will stand steadfast and safe from all these mischiefs. Now election is known by these
testimonies: faith is increased by sanctification: faith, by that which we grant to the truth; truth, by
calling, through the preaching of the Gospel: from where we come at length to a certain hope of
glorification.



(p) To sanctify you.



(q) Faith which does not lay hold upon lies, but upon the truth of God, which is the Gospel.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 2:14
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 2:14>2 Thessalonians 2:14</verse></h3>

<page=3149>Whereunto he called you by our (r) gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.



(r) By our preaching.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 2:15
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 2:15>2 Thessalonians 2:15</verse></h3>




(11) Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by
word, or our epistle.



(11) The conclusion: it remains then that we continue in the doctrine which was delivered to us by
the mouth and writings of the apostles, through the free good will of God, who comforts us with
an invincible hope, and that we also continue in all godliness our whole life long.

<h2>2 Thessalonians 3</h2>

#BCV:2 Thessalonians 3:1
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 3:1>2 Thessalonians 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=3150>Finally, (1) brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have [free] course, and be glorified,
even as [it is] with you:



(1) He adds now consequently according to his manner, various admonitions: the first of them is,
that they pray for the increase and passage of the Gospel, and for the safety of the faithful ministers
of it.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 3:2
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 3:2>2 Thessalonians 3:2</verse></h3>



And that we may be delivered from (a) unreasonable and wicked men: (2) for all [men] have not faith.



(a) Who do not do or care about their duty. (2) It is no wonder that the Gospel is hated by so many,
seeing that faith is a rare gift of God. Nonetheless, the Church will never be destroyed by the
multitude of the wicked, because it is grounded and stayed upon the faithful promise of God.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 3:3
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 3:3>2 Thessalonians 3:3</verse></h3>



But the Lord is faithful, who shall stablish you, and keep [you] from (b) evil.



(b) From Satan's snares, or from evil.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 3:4
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 3:4>2 Thessalonians 3:4</verse></h3>




(3) And we have confidence in the Lord touching you, that ye both do and will do the things which
we command you.



(3) The second admonition is, that they always follow the doctrine of the apostles as a rule for their
life.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 3:5
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 3:5>2 Thessalonians 3:5</verse></h3>




(4) And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into the patient waiting for Christ.



(4) Thirdly, he diligently and earnestly admonishes them of two things which are given to us only by
the grace of God, that is, of charity, and a watchful mind to the coming of Christ.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 3:6
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 3:6>2 Thessalonians 3:6</verse></h3>


<page=3151>(5) Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw
yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received
of us.



(5) Fourthly, he says that idle and lazy persons ought not to be supported by the Church; indeed,
they are not to be endured.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 3:7
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 3:7>2 Thessalonians 3:7</verse></h3>




(6) For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among
you;



(6) Lest he might seem to deal harshly with them, he sets forth himself as an example, who besides
his travail in preaching, laboured with his hands, which he says he was not bound to do.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 3:10
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 3:10>2 Thessalonians 3:10</verse></h3>



For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, (c) neither
should he eat.



(c) What will we do then with those fat lazy monks, and sacrificing priests? A monk (says Socrates,
book eight, of his Tripartite History) who does not work with hands, is like a thief.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 3:11
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 3:11>2 Thessalonians 3:11</verse></h3>



For we hear that there are some which walk among (7) you disorderly, working not at all, (8) but are
busybodies.



(7) How great a fault idleness is, he declares in that God created no man in vain or to no purpose,
neither is there any to whom he has not allotted as it were a certain position and place. From which
it follows, that the order which God has appointed is troubled by the idle, indeed broken, which is
great sin and wickedness. (8) He reprehends a vice, which is joined with the former, upon which
follows an infinite sort of mischiefs: that is, that there are none more busy in other men's matters,
than they who neglect their own.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 3:12
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 3:12>2 Thessalonians 3:12</verse></h3>




(9) Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness
they work, and eat their own bread.



(9) The Lord commands and the apostles pray in the name of Christ, first, that no man be idle, and
next, that every man quietly and carefully sees to do his duty in that office and calling in which the
Lord has placed him.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 3:13
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 3:13>2 Thessalonians 3:13</verse></h3>


<page=3152>(10) But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing.



(10) We must take heed that the unworthiness of some men does not cause us to be slack in welldoing.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 3:14
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 3:14>2 Thessalonians 3:14</verse></h3>




(11) And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no (12) company
with him, (13) that he may be ashamed.



(11) Excommunication is a punishment for the obstinate.



(12) We must have no familiarity or fellowship with the one who has been excommunicated.



(13) The end of the excommunication is not the destruction, but the salvation of the sinner, that at
least through shame he may be driven to repentance.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 3:15
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 3:15>2 Thessalonians 3:15</verse></h3>




(14) Yet count [him] not as an enemy, but admonish [him] as a brother.



(14) We must avoid familiarity with the one who has been excommunicated in such a way, that we
diligently seek every occasion and means that may be, to bring them again into the right way.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 3:16
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 3:16>2 Thessalonians 3:16</verse></h3>




(15) Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord [be] with you all.



(15) Prayers are the seals of all exhortations.
#BCV:2 Thessalonians 3:17
<h3><verse=2 Thessalonians 3:17>2 Thessalonians 3:17</verse></h3>




(16) The salutation of Paul with mine own hand, which is the token in every epistle: so I write.



(16) The apostle writes the conclusion of his letter with his own hand, so that false letters might not
be brought and put in place of true ones.

<h1>1 Timothy</h1>


<h2>1 Timothy 1</h2>

#BCV:1 Timothy 1:1
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:1>1 Timothy 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=3153>Paul, (1) an apostle of Jesus Christ by the commandment of God our Saviour, and Lord Jesus Christ,
[which is] our hope;



(1) First of all, he affirms his own free vocation and also Timothy's, that the one might be
confirmed by the other: and in addition he declares the sum of the apostolic doctrine, that is, the
mercy of God in Christ Jesus apprehended by faith, the end of which is yet hoped for.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:2
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:2>1 Timothy 1:2</verse></h3>



Unto Timothy, [my] own son in the faith: Grace, (a) mercy, [and] peace, from God our Father and
Jesus Christ our Lord.



(a) There is as much difference between mercy and grace, as is between the effect and the cause: for
grace is that free good will of God, by which he chose us in Christ, and mercy is that free
justification which follows it.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:3
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:3>1 Timothy 1:3</verse></h3>




(2) As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest
charge some that they teach no other doctrine,



(2) This whole epistle consists in admonitions, in which all the duties of a faithful pastor are plainly
set out. And the first admonition is this, that no innovation is made either in the apostle's doctrine
itself, or in the manner of teaching it.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:4
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:4>1 Timothy 1:4</verse></h3>




(3) Neither give heed to fables and endless (b) genealogies, which minister questions, rather than
godly edifying which is in faith: [so do].



(3) The doctrine is corrupted not only by false opinions, but also by vain and curious speculations:
the declaration and utterance of which can help our faith in no way.



(b) He makes note of one type of vain question.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:5
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:5>1 Timothy 1:5</verse></h3>


<page=3154>(4) Now the end of the (c) commandment is (d) charity out of a pure heart, and [of] a good
conscience, and [of] faith unfeigned:



(4) The second admonition is, that the right use and practice of the doctrine must be joined with the
doctrine. And that consists in pure charity, and a good conscience, and true faith.



(c) Of the Law.



(d) There is neither love without a good conscience, nor a good conscience without faith, nor faith
without the word of God.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:6
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:6>1 Timothy 1:6</verse></h3>




(5) From which some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling;



(5) That which he spoke before generally of vain and curious controversies, he applies to those who,
pretending a zeal of the Law, dwelled upon outward things, and never made an end of babbling of
foolish trifles.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:7
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:7>1 Timothy 1:7</verse></h3>




(6) Desiring to be teachers of the law; understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm.



(6) There are none more unlearned, and more impudent in usurping the name of holiness, than
foolish babblers, who reason fallaciously.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:8
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:8>1 Timothy 1:8</verse></h3>




(7) But we know that the law [is] good, if a man use it lawfully;



(7) The taking away of an objection: he does not condemn the Law, but requires the right use and
practice of it.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:9
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:9>1 Timothy 1:9</verse></h3>




(8) Knowing this, that the law is not made for a (e) righteous man, but for the lawless and
disobedient, for the ungodly and for (f) sinners, for unholy and profane, for murderers of fathers
and murderers of mothers, for manslayers,



(8) He indeed escapes the curse of the Law, and therefore does not abhor it, who fleeing and
avoiding those things which the Law condemns, gives himself with all his heart to observe it: and he
does not make a vain babbling of outward and curious matters.



(e) And such a one is he, whom the Lord has endued with true doctrine, and with the Holy Spirit.



(f) To those who make an art, as it were, of sinning.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:11
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:11>1 Timothy 1:11</verse></h3>


<page=3155>(9) According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, (10) which was committed to my trust.



(9) He contrasts fond and vain babbling with, not only the Law, but the Gospel also, which does not
condemn, but greatly commends the wholesome doctrine contained in the commandments of God.
And therefore he calls it a glorious Gospel, and the Gospel of the blessed God, the power of which
these babblers did not know.



(10) A reason why neither any other Gospel is to be taught than he has taught in the Church, neither
after any other way, because there is no other Gospel besides that which God committed to him.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:12
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:12>1 Timothy 1:12</verse></h3>




(11) And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath (g) enabled me, for that he counted me faithful,
putting me into the ministry;



(11) He maintains of necessity his apostleship against some that did find fault with his former life,
debasing himself even to hell, to advance only Christ's only, with which he abolished all those his
former doings.



(g) Who gave me strength, not only when I had no will to do well, but also when I was wholly given
to evil.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:13
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:13>1 Timothy 1:13</verse></h3>



Who was before a (h) blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I
did [it] ignorantly in unbelief.



(h) These are the meritorious works which Paul brags of.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:14
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:14>1 Timothy 1:14</verse></h3>



And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant (12) with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.



(12) He proves this change by the effects, because he who was a profane man, has become a believer:
and he that did most outrageously persecute Christ, burns now in love towards him.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:15
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:15>1 Timothy 1:15</verse></h3>




(13) This [is] a (i) faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world
to save sinners; of whom I am chief.

<page=3156>(13) He turns the reproach of the adversaries upon their own head, showing that this singular
example of the goodness of God, contributes greatly to the benefit of the whole Church.



(i) Worthy to be believed.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:17
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:17>1 Timothy 1:17</verse></h3>




(14) Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the (k) only wise God, [be] honour and glory
for ever and ever. Amen.



(14) He breaks out into an exclamation, even because of the very zeal of his mind, because he
cannot satisfy himself in amplifying the grace of God.



(k) See<bcv=John 17:3> Joh 17:3</bcv>
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:18
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:18>1 Timothy 1:18</verse></h3>




(15) This charge I commit unto thee, son Timothy, according to the prophecies which went before
on thee, that thou by (l) them mightest war a good warfare;



(15) The conclusion of both the former fatherly admonitions, that is, that Timothy striving bravely
against all stops, being called to the ministry according to many prophecies which went before of
him, should both maintain the doctrine which he had received, and keep also a good conscience.



(l) By the help of them.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:19
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:19>1 Timothy 1:19</verse></h3>



Holding (m) faith, and a good conscience; (16) which some having put away concerning faith have
made shipwreck:



(m) Wholesome and sound doctrine.



(16) Whoever does not keep a good conscience, loses also by little and little, the gift of
understanding. And this he proves by two most lamentable examples.
#BCV:1 Timothy 1:20
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 1:20>1 Timothy 1:20</verse></h3>



Of whom is Hymenaeus and Alexander; (17) whom I have (n) delivered unto Satan, that they may (o)
learn not to blaspheme.



(17) Those who fall from God, and his religion, are not to be endured in the Church, but rather
ought to be excommunicated.



(n) Cast out of the Church, and so delivered them to Satan.

<page=3157>(o) That by their pain they might learn how serious it is to blaspheme.

<h2>1 Timothy 2</h2>

#BCV:1 Timothy 2:1
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 2:1>1 Timothy 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=3158>I (1) exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks,
be made for all men;



(1) Having dispatched those things which pertain to doctrine, he speaks now in the second place of
the other part of the ministry of the word, that is, of public prayers. And first of all, answering the
question for whom we ought to pray, he teaches that we must pray for all men, and especially for
every type of magistrate. And this thing was at that time somewhat doubted of, seeing that kings,
indeed, and most of the magistrates, were at that time enemies of the Church.
#BCV:1 Timothy 2:2
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 2:2>1 Timothy 2:2</verse></h3>



For kings, and [for] all that are in authority; (2) that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all
godliness and (a) honesty.



(2) An argument taken of the end: that is, because magistrates are appointed to this end, that men
might peaceably and quietly live in all godliness and honesty: and therefore we must commend them
especially to God, that they may faithfully execute so necessary an office.



(a) This word includes every type of duty, which is to be used by men in all their affairs.
#BCV:1 Timothy 2:3
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 2:3>1 Timothy 2:3</verse></h3>




(3) For this [is] good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;



(3) Another argument, why churches or congregations ought to pray for all men, without any
difference of nation, type, age, or order: that is, because the Lord by calling of all types, indeed
sometimes those that are the greatest enemies to the Gospel, will have his Church gathered together
after this manner, and therefore prayer is to be made for all.
#BCV:1 Timothy 2:5
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 2:5>1 Timothy 2:5</verse></h3>




(4) For [there is] one God, and one mediator between God and men, the (b) man Christ Jesus;



(4) God should not otherwise be manifested to be the only God of all men, unless he should show
his goodness in saving all types of men. Neither should Christ be seen to be the only mediator
between God and all types of men, by having taken upon him that nature of man which is common
to all men, unless he had satisfied for all types of men, and made intercession for all.



(b) Christ Jesus who was made man.

#BCV:1 Timothy 2:6
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 2:6>1 Timothy 2:6</verse></h3>


Who gave himself a ransom for all, (5) to be testified in due time.



(5) A confirmation, because even to the Gentiles is the secret of salvation now revealed and made
manifest, the apostle himself being appointed for this office, which he faithfully and sincerely
executes.
#BCV:1 Timothy 2:7
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 2:7>1 Timothy 2:7</verse></h3>



Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, [and] lie not;) a
teacher of the Gentiles in (c) faith and verity.



(c) Faithfully and sincerely: and by faith he means wholesome and sound doctrine, and by truth, an
upright and sincere handling of it.
#BCV:1 Timothy 2:8
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 2:8>1 Timothy 2:8</verse></h3>




(6) I will therefore that men pray every where, (d) lifting up holy hands, without (e) wrath and (f)
doubting.



(6) He has spoken of the persons for whom we must pray: and now he teaches that the difference
of places is taken away: for in times past, only one nation, and in one certain place, came together to
public service. But now churches or congregations are gathered together everywhere, (orderly and
decently), and men come together to serve God publicly with common prayer. Neither must we
strive for the nation, or for the purification of the body, or for the place, but for the mind, to have it
clear from all offence, and full of sure trust and confidence.



(d) He talks of the sign for the thing itself, the lifting up of hands for the calling upon God.



(e) Without the griefs and offences of the mind, which hinder us from calling upon God with a
good conscience.



(f) Doubting, which is against faith; (<bcv=Jam 1:6>Jam 1:6</bcv>).
#BCV:1 Timothy 2:9
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 2:9>1 Timothy 2:9</verse></h3>




(7) In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and
sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;



(7) Thirdly, he appoints women to learn in the public assemblies with silence and modesty, being
dressed pleasantly, without any overindulgence or excess in their clothing.
#BCV:1 Timothy 2:12
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 2:12>1 Timothy 2:12</verse></h3>



But I suffer not a woman to teach, (8) nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence.

<page=3160>(8) The first argument, why it is not lawful for women to teach in the congregation, because by this
means they would be placed above men, for they would be their masters: and this is against God's
ordinance.
#BCV:1 Timothy 2:13
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 2:13>1 Timothy 2:13</verse></h3>




(9) For Adam was first formed, then Eve.



(9) He proves this ordinance of God, by which the woman is subject to man, first because God
made the woman after man, for man's sake.
#BCV:1 Timothy 2:14
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 2:14>1 Timothy 2:14</verse></h3>




(10) And Adam was not (g) deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression.



(10) Then, because after sin, God gave the woman this punishment, because the man was deceived
by her.



(g) Adam was deceived, but through his wife's means, and therefore she is worthily for this reason
subject to her husband, and ought to be.
#BCV:1 Timothy 2:15
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 2:15>1 Timothy 2:15</verse></h3>




(11) Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and
holiness with sobriety.



(11) He adds a comfort by the way, that their subjection does not hinder women from being saved as
well as men, if they behave themselves in those duties of marriage in a holy and modest manner,
with faith and charity.

<h2>1 Timothy 3</h2>

#BCV:1 Timothy 3:1
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 3:1>1 Timothy 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=3161>This (1) [is] a true saying, (2) If a man (a) desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work.



(1) Having completed the treatise of doctrine and of the manner of handling of it, as well also of
public prayer, he now in the third place comes to the persons themselves, speaking first of pastors,
and afterwards of deacons. And he uses a preface, so that the church may know that these are
certain and sure rules. (2) The office of bishop, or the ministry of the word is not an idle dignity, but
a work, and that an excellent work: and therefore a bishop must be furnished with many virtues both
at home and abroad. Therefore it is necessary before he is chosen to examine well his learning, his
gifts, his abilities, and his life.



(a) He does not speak here of ambitious seeking, of which there cannot be a worse fault in the
Church, but generally of the mind and disposition of man, prepared and disposed to help and edify
the Church of God, when and wherever it will please the Lord.
#BCV:1 Timothy 3:2
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 3:2>1 Timothy 3:2</verse></h3>



A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of (b) one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour,
given to hospitality, apt to teach;



(b) Therefore he that shuts out married men from the office of bishops, only because they are
married, is antichrist.
#BCV:1 Timothy 3:3
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 3:3>1 Timothy 3:3</verse></h3>



Not (c) given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;



(c) A common drinker and one that will often partake of it.
#BCV:1 Timothy 3:6
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 3:6>1 Timothy 3:6</verse></h3>



Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the (d) condemnation of the devil.



(d) Lest by reason that he is advanced to that position, he takes occasion to be proud, which will
undo him, and so he fall into the same condemnation that the devil himself has fallen into.
#BCV:1 Timothy 3:8
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 3:8>1 Timothy 3:8</verse></h3>




(3) Likewise [must] the (e) deacons [be] grave, not doubletongued, not given to much wine, not
greedy of filthy lucre;

<page=3162>(3) Likewise the deacons must first be proved, that there may be a good trial of their honesty, truth,
sobriety, mind void of covetousness, that they are well instructed in the doctrine of faith, and to be
short, of their good conscience and integrity.



(e) These are those that had to look after the poor.
#BCV:1 Timothy 3:9
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 3:9>1 Timothy 3:9</verse></h3>



Holding the (f) mystery of the faith in a pure conscience.



(f) The doctrine of the Gospel, which is indeed a mystery: for flesh and blood do not reveal it.
#BCV:1 Timothy 3:11
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 3:11>1 Timothy 3:11</verse></h3>




(4) Even so [must their] wives [be] grave, not slanderers, sober, faithful in all things.



(4) Regard must also be had for the pastor's and deacon's wives.
#BCV:1 Timothy 3:12
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 3:12>1 Timothy 3:12</verse></h3>




(5) Let the deacons be the husbands of one wife, ruling their children and their own houses well.



(5) They that have than one wife, at one time, must neither by called to be ministers, nor to be
deacons.
#BCV:1 Timothy 3:13
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 3:13>1 Timothy 3:13</verse></h3>



For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good (g) degree, and (h)
great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.



(g) Honour and estimation.



(h) Bold and assured confidence without fear.
#BCV:1 Timothy 3:14
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 3:14>1 Timothy 3:14</verse></h3>




(6) These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly:



(6) Paul purposing to add many particular things pertaining to the daily office of a pastor, speaks
first a word or two concerning his coming to Timothy, that he should be so much the more careful,
lest at his coming he might be reproved of negligence.
#BCV:1 Timothy 3:15
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 3:15>1 Timothy 3:15</verse></h3>

<page=3163>But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the (7) house of
God, which is the church of the living God, the (i) pillar and ground of the truth.



(7) The pastor always has to consider how he carries out his duties in the house of the living God, in
which the treasure of the truth is kept.



(i) That is, with regard to man: for the Church rested upon that cornerstone, Christ, and is the
preserver of the truth, but not the mother.
#BCV:1 Timothy 3:16
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 3:16>1 Timothy 3:16</verse></h3>




(8) And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, (k)
justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received
up into glory.



(8) There is nothing more excellent than this truth, of which the Church is the keeper and preserver
here among men, the ministry of the word being appointed to that end and purpose: for it teaches
us the greatest matters that may be thought, that is, that God has become visible in the person of
Christ by taking our nature upon him, whose majesty, even though in such great weakness, was
manifested in many ways, in so much that the sight of it pierced the very angels. And to conclude,
he being preached to the Gentiles was received by them, and is now placed above in unspeakable
glory.



(k) The power of the Godhead showed itself so marvellously in the weak flesh of Christ, that even
though he was a weak man, yet all the world knows he was and is God.

<h2>1 Timothy 4</h2>

#BCV:1 Timothy 4:1
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 4:1>1 Timothy 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=3164>Now (1) the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the (a) faith,
giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;



(1) He contrasts that true doctrine, with false opinions, which he foretells that certain ones who shall
fall away from God and his religion, will bring in by the suggestion of Satan, and so that a great
number will give ear to them.



(a) From the true doctrine of God.
#BCV:1 Timothy 4:2
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 4:2>1 Timothy 4:2</verse></h3>




(2) Speaking lies in (b) hypocrisy; having their (c) conscience seared with a hot iron;



(2) Even though heretics pretend holiness ever so much, yet they have no conscience.



(b) For they will as it were practise the art of disguised persons and players, so that we may not think
they will lie lurking in some one corner or keep any resemblance of being shameful.



(c) Whose conscience became so hard, that there grew a callous over it, and so became to have a
canker in it, and now at length required by very necessity to be burned with a hot iron.
#BCV:1 Timothy 4:3
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 4:3>1 Timothy 4:3</verse></h3>




(3) Forbidding to marry, [and commanding] to abstain from meats, (4) which God hath created (5)
to be received (6) with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.



(3) He sets down two types of this false doctrine, that is, the law of single life, and the difference of
meats. (4) He proves that he justly called such doctrines devilish, first, because the teachers of them
make laws of things which are not their own: for have they created the meats? (5) Secondly, because
they overthrow with their decrees the reason why they were created by God, that is, that we should
use them. (6) Thirdly, because by this means they rob God of his glory, who will be honoured in the
use of them. And here with this, the apostle declares that we must use the liberality of God solemnly,
and with a good conscience.
#BCV:1 Timothy 4:4
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 4:4>1 Timothy 4:4</verse></h3>




(7) For every creature of God [is] good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with
thanksgiving:



(7) He sets an apostolic rule for taking away the difference of meats, against that false doctrine.

#BCV:1 Timothy 4:5
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 4:5>1 Timothy 4:5</verse></h3>


(8) For it is (d) sanctified by the (e) word of God and prayer.



(8) He properly uses God's benefits who acknowledges the giver of them by his word, and calls
upon him.



(d) It is so made pure and holy in respect of us, so that we may use it with a good conscience, as
received from the Lord's hands.



(e) We confess and acknowledge that God is the maker and giver of those creatures which we use.
Secondly, that we are of the number of those, who through Christ's benefit, have recovered that
right over all creatures, which Adam lost by his fall. Thirdly, by our prayers we crave of the Lord that
we may use those meats with a good conscience, which we receive from his hands. Fourthly, we
make an end of our eating and drinking, with thanksgiving and prayer: and so are our meats
sanctified to us.
#BCV:1 Timothy 4:6
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 4:6>1 Timothy 4:6</verse></h3>




(9) If thou put the brethren in remembrance of these things, thou shalt be a good minister of Jesus
Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto thou hast (f) attained.



(9) The conclusion with an exhortation to Timothy, to propound these things diligently to the
churches, which he had gotten from the apostle even as though he were being fed.



(f) Never departing from it in the least.
#BCV:1 Timothy 4:7
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 4:7>1 Timothy 4:7</verse></h3>




(10) But refuse profane and old wives' fables, (11) and exercise thyself [rather] unto (g) godliness.



(10) He contrasts again true doctrine not only with the false and apostate doctrine, but also with all
vain and curious wiles.



(11) It is not only necessary that the minister of the word be sound in doctrine, but also that his life
is godly and religious.



(g) In the true serving of God.
#BCV:1 Timothy 4:8
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 4:8>1 Timothy 4:8</verse></h3>




(12) For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of
the life that now is, and of that which is to come.



(12) Godliness consists in spiritual exercise, and not in outward strictness of life, which though it is
something to be esteemed, if it is used correctly, yet it is in no way comparable with godliness. For it
<page=3166>profits not in and of itself, but through the benefit of another; but godliness has the promise both
of the present life, and of that which is to come.
#BCV:1 Timothy 4:9
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 4:9>1 Timothy 4:9</verse></h3>




(13) This [is] a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation.



(13) He goes a little from his matter, and shows that those who give themselves to godliness, even
though they are afflicted and reproached, are nonetheless not to be considered miserable as other
men are, because they are not afflicted for that reason that other men are, and the end of them both
is far different one from the other. For how can God forsake his own, who is bountiful even towards
his enemies? And he wishes that this doctrine is well learned by them.
#BCV:1 Timothy 4:12
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 4:12>1 Timothy 4:12</verse></h3>




(14) Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation,
in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.



(14) Now he returns to that exhortation, showing what are the true virtues of a pastor, by which he
may come to be reverenced even though he is young, that is, such speech and life as are witnesses of
charity, zeal, faith, and purity. But here there is no mention made of the hooked staff, ring, cloak,
and such other foolish and childish toys.
#BCV:1 Timothy 4:13
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 4:13>1 Timothy 4:13</verse></h3>




(15) Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.



(15) The private exercise of pastors, is the continual reading of the scriptures, from which they may
draw water out of wholesome doctrine and exhortation, both for themselves and for others.
#BCV:1 Timothy 4:16
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 4:16>1 Timothy 4:16</verse></h3>



Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both (h)
save thyself, and them that hear thee.



(h) Faith is by hearing, and hearing by preaching: and therefore the ministers of the word are so said
to save themselves and others, because in them the Lord has put the word of reconciliation.

<h2>1 Timothy 5</h2>

#BCV:1 Timothy 5:1
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:1>1 Timothy 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=3167>Rebuke (1) not an elder, but intreat [him] as a father; [and] the younger men as brethren;



(1) Of giving personal reprehensions appropriately, according to the degrees of ages and gender.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:3
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:3>1 Timothy 5:3</verse></h3>




(2) (a) Honour widows that are widows indeed.



(2) The apostle gives these rules concerning the care of widows.



(a) Have care of those widows who have need of help.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:4
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:4>1 Timothy 5:4</verse></h3>




(3) But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety (4) at home, and (5)
to requite their parents: (6) for that is good and acceptable before God.



(3) Widow's children and nephews must take care of their parents according to their ability. (4) The
first reason, because that which they bestow upon their parents, they bestow it upon themselves. (5)
Another, because nature itself teaches us to repay our parents. (6) The third: because this duty
pleases God.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:5
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:5>1 Timothy 5:5</verse></h3>




(7) Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications
and prayers night and day.



(7) The second rule. Let the church take care of those who are indeed widows, that is to say, those
who are poor and destitute of help from their own friends, and live godly and religiously.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:6
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:6>1 Timothy 5:6</verse></h3>




(8) But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth.



(8) The third rule: let widows that live in pleasure, and neglect the care of their own family, be held
and considered as fallers away from God and his religion, and worse than the unfaithful themselves.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:9
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:9>1 Timothy 5:9</verse></h3>


<page=3168>(9) Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, having been the wife of (b)
one man,



(9) The fourth rule: let none under sixty years old be taken into the number of widows, to serve the
congregations or churches. And they must be those who are free from every reproach of immorality,
and are well reported of, for their diligence, charity, and integrity.



(b) That has only ever had one husband at a time.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:10
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:10>1 Timothy 5:10</verse></h3>



Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if
she have (c) washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed
every good work.



(c) This is spoken with regard to the manner of those countries.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:11
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:11>1 Timothy 5:11</verse></h3>




(10) But the younger widows (d) refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ,
they will marry;



(10) The first reason why younger widows are not to be admitted to this ministry, that is, because of
the unsteadiness of their age they will at length shake off the burden that Christ has laid upon them,
and think rather upon marrying again: and so will forsake the ministry to which they had bound
themselves.



(d) Take them not into the assembly of widows.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:13
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:13>1 Timothy 5:13</verse></h3>




(11) And withal they learn [to be] idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but
tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.



(11) Another reason: because they are for the most part gossips and busybodies, and idly roving up
and down, neglecting their charge and duty.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:14
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:14>1 Timothy 5:14</verse></h3>




(12) I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none
occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.



(12) The fifth rule: let younger widows marry and govern their houses in a godly way.

#BCV:1 Timothy 5:16
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:16>1 Timothy 5:16</verse></h3>


(13) If any man or woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them, and let not the church
be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed.



(13) The sixth rule: let the faithful help their widows at their own expense as much as they can, and
do not let the congregation be burdened with these expenses.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:17
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:17>1 Timothy 5:17</verse></h3>




(14) Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of (e) double honour, (f) especially they who
labour in the word and doctrine.



(14) Now he gives rules, and shows how he ought to behave himself with the elders, that is to say,
with the pastors, and those who have the governance in the discipline of the church, who is
president of their company. The first rule: let the church or congregation see to this especially, as
God himself has commanded, that the elders that do their duty well, are honestly supported.



(e) We must be more concerned for them, than for the rest.



(f) There were two types of elders: the one dealt with the government only, and looked to the
behaviour of the congregation; the other in addition to that, dealt with both preaching and prayers,
to and for the congregation.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:19
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:19>1 Timothy 5:19</verse></h3>




(15) Against an elder receive not an accusation, but before two or three witnesses.



(15) The second rule: allow no accusation to be considered against an elder, unless there are two or
three witnesses.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:20
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:20>1 Timothy 5:20</verse></h3>




(16) Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear.



(16) The third rule: let the leaders so convicted be openly rebuked, so that they may be an example
to others.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:21
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:21>1 Timothy 5:21</verse></h3>




(17) I charge [thee] before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect angels, that thou observe
these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality.



(17) The fourth rule: let sincerity be used without any prejudice or respect of persons in
ecclesiastical proceedings (especially against the elders), because God himself is present there, and
the Lord Jesus Christ with a multitude of angels.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:22
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:22>1 Timothy 5:22</verse></h3>


<page=3170>(18) Lay hands (g) suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other men's sins: keep thyself pure.



(18) The fifth rule: let the minister lay hands suddenly on no man. Let him not be faulty in this,
either by favouring any man's folly, or perverse affection. If anything is not done well by his fellow
elders, let him keep his conscience pure.



(g) As much as you are able, do not rashly admit anyone at all to any ecclesiastical function.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:23
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:23>1 Timothy 5:23</verse></h3>




(19) Drink no longer water, but use a little wine for thy stomach's sake and thine often infirmities.



(19) The sixth rule: let the elders have consideration for their health, in their diet.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:24
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:24>1 Timothy 5:24</verse></h3>




(20) Some men's sins are open beforehand, going before to judgment; and some [men] they follow
after.



(20) Because hypocrites sometimes creep into the ministry, even though there is ever so great
diligence used, the apostle wishes the pastors not to be therefore troubled, or slack at all in their
diligence in trying and examining, because the Lord has appointed a time to discover the faults of
such men, and it is our duty to take heed that we do not offend in our trying and examining.
#BCV:1 Timothy 5:25
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 5:25>1 Timothy 5:25</verse></h3>




(21) Likewise also the good works [of some] are manifest beforehand; and they that are otherwise
cannot be hid.



(21) Another comfort belonging to them, who are sometimes slandered and misreported.

<h2>1 Timothy 6</h2>

#BCV:1 Timothy 6:1
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:1>1 Timothy 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=3171>Let (1) as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, (2)
that the name of God and [his] doctrine be not blasphemed.



(1) He adds also rules for the servant's duty towards their masters: upon which matter there were no
doubt many questions asked by those who took occasion by the Gospel to trouble the normal
manner of life. And this is the first rule: let servants that have come to the faith and have the
unfaithful for their masters, serve them nonetheless with great faithfulness. (2) The reason: lest God
should seem by the doctrine of the Gospel to stir up men to rebellion and all wickedness.
#BCV:1 Timothy 6:2
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:2>1 Timothy 6:2</verse></h3>




(3) And they that have believing masters, let them not despise [them], because they are brethren; but
rather do [them] service, because they are faithful and beloved, (a) partakers of the benefit. (4)
These things teach and exhort.



(3) The second rule: let not servants that have come to the faith, and have also masters of the same
profession and religion, abuse the name of brotherhood, but let them so much the rather obey them.



(a) Let this be sufficient, that with regard to those things which pertain to everlasting life, they are
partakers of the same good will and love of God, as their masters themselves are. (4) A general
conclusion, that these things ought not only to be simply taught, but must with exhortations be
diligently learned by them.
#BCV:1 Timothy 6:3
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:3>1 Timothy 6:3</verse></h3>




(5) If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, [even] the words of our Lord
Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;



(5) He severely condemns and excommunicates or casts out of the Church as proud men, those who
do not content themselves with Christ's doctrine, (that is to say, the doctrine of godliness) but weary
both themselves and others, in vain questions (for all other things are vain), because they do not
content themselves in Christ's doctrine. He condemns them as lying deceivers, because they savour
or sound of nothing but vanity: as mad men, because they trouble themselves so much in matters of
nothing: as evil plagues, because they cause great contentions, and corrupt men's minds and
judgment. To be short, he condemns them as profane and wicked, because they abuse the precious
name of godliness and religion, for the sake of wicked gain.
#BCV:1 Timothy 6:4
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:4>1 Timothy 6:4</verse></h3>

<page=3172>He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and (b) strifes of words, whereof cometh
envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,



(b) Strivings about words, and not about matter: and by words he means all those things which do
not have substance in them, and by which we can reap no profit.
#BCV:1 Timothy 6:5
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:5>1 Timothy 6:5</verse></h3>



Perverse (c) disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is
godliness: from such withdraw thyself.



(c) Such as we see in those shameless schools of popery, which are nothing else but vain babbling
and foolish talking.
#BCV:1 Timothy 6:6
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:6>1 Timothy 6:6</verse></h3>




(6) But godliness with contentment is great gain.



(6) He properly dismisses the name of gain and lucre, confessing that godliness is great gain, but in a
far different manner, that is, because it brings true sufficiency.
#BCV:1 Timothy 6:7
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:7>1 Timothy 6:7</verse></h3>




(7) For we brought nothing into [this] world, [and it is] certain we can carry nothing out.



(7) He mocks the folly of those who do so greedily hunger after frail things, who can in no way be
satisfied, and yet nonetheless cannot enjoy their excess.
#BCV:1 Timothy 6:9
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:9>1 Timothy 6:9</verse></h3>




(8) But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and [into] many foolish and hurtful
lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.



(8) He puts fear into Timothy to avoid covetousness using a different reasoning, that is, because it
draws with it an infinite sort of lusts and those very hurtful, with which covetous men do torment
themselves to the degree that in the end, they cast away from them their faith and salvation.
#BCV:1 Timothy 6:10
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:10>1 Timothy 6:10</verse></h3>



For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from
the faith, and (d) pierced themselves through with many sorrows.



(d) Sorrow and grief do as it were pierce through the mind of man, and are the harvest and true
fruits of covetousness.
#BCV:1 Timothy 6:11
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:11>1 Timothy 6:11</verse></h3>


<page=3173>(9) But thou, O (e) man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith,
love, patience, meekness.



(9) A peculiar exhortation to various virtues, with which it appropriate for the pastors especially to
be furnished.



(e) Whom the Spirit of God rules.
#BCV:1 Timothy 6:13
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:13>1 Timothy 6:13</verse></h3>




(10) I give thee charge in the sight of God, who quickeneth all things, and [before] Christ Jesus, who
before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession;



(10) A most earnest request and charge, to observe and keep all the things faithfully, with our eyes
set upon the coming of Jesus Christ, whose glory we have to contrast with the vain glittering of this
world, and his power with all the terrors of the wicked.
#BCV:1 Timothy 6:15
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:15>1 Timothy 6:15</verse></h3>



Which in his times he shall shew, [who is] the (f) blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and
Lord of lords;



(f) He combines many words together for one purpose: by which he confirms the power of God,
which if we trust steadfastly in, we will not be moved out of our position.
#BCV:1 Timothy 6:17
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:17>1 Timothy 6:17</verse></h3>




(11) Charge them that are rich in (g) this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain
riches, but in the (h) living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy;



(11) He adds as an overabundance as it were a sharp admonition to the rich, that they mainly take
heed of two evils, that is, of pride, and deceitful hope, against which he sets three excellent virtues,
hope in the living God, liberality towards their neighbour, and gentle conditions.



(g) In things pertaining to this life, with whom those men are compared who are rich in good works.



(h) Who alone is, and that everlasting: for he sets the frail nature of riches against God.
#BCV:1 Timothy 6:19
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:19>1 Timothy 6:19</verse></h3>




(12) Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay
hold on eternal life.

<page=3174>(12) The praise of liberality, by the effects of it, because it is a sure testimony of the Spirit of God
who dwells in us, and therefore of the salvation that will be given to us.
#BCV:1 Timothy 6:20
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:20>1 Timothy 6:20</verse></h3>




(13) O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane [and] vain babblings,
and oppositions of science falsely so called:



(13) He repeats the most important of all the former exhortations, which ought to be deeply
imprinted in the minds of all ministers of the word, that is, that they avoid all vain babblings of false
wisdom, and continue in the simplicity of sincere doctrine.
#BCV:1 Timothy 6:21
<h3><verse=1 Timothy 6:21>1 Timothy 6:21</verse></h3>



Which some (i) professing have erred concerning the faith. Grace [be] with thee. Amen. "[The first
to Timothy was written from Laodicea, which is the chiefest city of Phrygia Pacatiana.]"



(i) Not only in word, but also in appearance and gesture: to be short, while their behaviour was such
that even when they held their peace they would make men believe, their heads were occupied about
nothing but high and lofty matters, and therefore they erred concerning the faith.

<h1>2 Timothy</h1>


<h2>2 Timothy 1</h2>

#BCV:2 Timothy 1:1
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 1:1>2 Timothy 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=3175>Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, (a) according to the promise of life which is in
Christ Jesus,



(a) Sent of God to preach that life which he promised in Christ Jesus.
#BCV:2 Timothy 1:3
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 1:3>2 Timothy 1:3</verse></h3>




(1) I thank God, whom I serve from [my] (b) forefathers with pure conscience, that without ceasing
I have remembrance of thee in my prayers night and day;



(1) The purpose that he aims at in this epistle is to confirm Timothy to continue constantly and
bravely even to the end. And he sets first before him the great good will he has for him, and then
reckons up the excellent gifts which God would as it were have to be in Timothy by inheritance, and
his ancestors, which might so much the more make him bound to God.



(b) From Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob: for he speaks not of Pharisaism, but of Christianity.
#BCV:2 Timothy 1:6
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 1:6>2 Timothy 1:6</verse></h3>




(2) Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou (c) stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by
the putting on of my hands.



(2) He urges us to set the invincible power of the Spirit which God has given us, against those
storms which may, and do come upon us.



(c) The gift of God is as it were a certain living flame kindled in our hearts, which the flesh and the
devil go about to put out: and therefore we as their opponents must labour as much as we can to
foster and keep it burning.
#BCV:2 Timothy 1:7
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 1:7>2 Timothy 1:7</verse></h3>



For God hath not given us the spirit of (d) fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.



(d) To pierce us through, and terrify us, as men whom the Lord will destroy.
#BCV:2 Timothy 1:8
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 1:8>2 Timothy 1:8</verse></h3>


<page=3176>(3) Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me (e) his prisoner: but be
thou partaker of the afflictions of the (f) gospel according to the (g) power of God;



(3) He proves that the ignominy or shame of the cross is not to be ashamed of, and also that it is
glorious and most honourable: first, because the Gospel for which the godly are afflicted is the
testimony of Christ: and secondly because at length the great virtue and power of God appears in
them.



(e) For his sake.



(f) This Gospel is said to be in a way afflicted in those that preach it.



(g) Through the power of God.
#BCV:2 Timothy 1:9
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 1:9>2 Timothy 1:9</verse></h3>




(4) Who hath saved us, and called [us] with an holy calling, not according to our works, but
according to his own purpose and grace, which was (h) given us in Christ Jesus (i) before the world
began,



(4) He shows with how great benefits God has bound us to maintain boldly and constantly his glory
which is joined with our salvation, and reckons up the causes of our salvation, that is, that free and
eternal purpose of God, to save us in Christ who was to come. And by this it would come to pass,
that we would at length be freely called by God through the preaching of the Gospel, to Christ the
destroyer of death and author of immortality.



(h) He says that that grace was given to us from everlasting, to which we were predestinated from
everlasting. So that the doctrine of foreseen faith and foreseen works is completely contrary to the
doctrine which preaches and teaches the grace of God.



(i) Before the beginning of years, which has run on ever since the beginning of the world.
#BCV:2 Timothy 1:10
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 1:10>2 Timothy 1:10</verse></h3>



But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death,
and hath brought life and immortality to (k) light through the gospel:



(k) Has caused life and immortality to appear.
#BCV:2 Timothy 1:11
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 1:11>2 Timothy 1:11</verse></h3>




(5) Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.



(5) That is, the Gospel which the apostle preached.

#BCV:2 Timothy 1:12
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 1:12>2 Timothy 1:12</verse></h3>


(6) For the which cause I also suffer these things: (7) nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know
whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto
him against that day.



(6) He confirms his apostleship by a strange argument, that is, because the world could not abide it,
and therefore it persecuted him that preached it. (7) By setting his own example before us, he shows
us how it may be, that we will not be ashamed of the cross of Christ, that is, if we are sure that God
both can and will keep the salvation which he has as it were laid up in store by himself for us against
that day.
#BCV:2 Timothy 1:13
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 1:13>2 Timothy 1:13</verse></h3>




(8) Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in
Christ Jesus.



(8) He shows in what he ought to be most constant, that is, both in the doctrine itself, the essential
parts of which are faith and charity, and next in the manner of teaching it, a living pattern and shape
of which Timothy knew in the apostle.
#BCV:2 Timothy 1:14
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 1:14>2 Timothy 1:14</verse></h3>




(9) That good thing which was committed unto thee keep (10) by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in
us.



(9) An amplification, taken from the dignity of so great a benefit committed to the ministers.



(10) The taking away of an objection. It is a hard thing to do it, but the Spirit of God is mighty, who
has inwardly endued us with his power.
#BCV:2 Timothy 1:15
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 1:15>2 Timothy 1:15</verse></h3>




(11) This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me; of whom are
Phygellus and Hermogenes.



(11) He prevents an offence which arose by the means of certain ones that fell from God and the
faith, and utters also their names that they might be known by all men. But he sets against them the
singular faith of one man, that one good example alone might counterbalance and weigh down all
evil examples.

<h2>2 Timothy 2</h2>

#BCV:2 Timothy 2:1
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:1>2 Timothy 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=3178>Thou (1) therefore, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus.



(1) The conclusion of the former exhortation which has also a declaration added to it: how those
who do not keep that worthy thing that is committed to them, who keep it to themselves, but rather
those who do most freely communicate it with others, to the end that many may be partakers of it,
without any man's loss or hindrance.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:2
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:2>2 Timothy 2:2</verse></h3>



And the things that thou hast heard of me among (a) many witnesses, the same commit thou to
faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.



(a) When many were there, who can bear witness of these things.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:3
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:3>2 Timothy 2:3</verse></h3>




(2) Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ.



(2) Another admonition: that the ministry of the word is a spiritual warfare, which no man can so
travail in that he pleases his captain, unless he abstains from and parts with all hindrances which
might draw him away from it.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:4
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:4>2 Timothy 2:4</verse></h3>



No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of (b) [this] life; that he may please him
who hath chosen him to be a soldier.



(b) With affairs of household, or other things that belong to other ordinary businesses.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:5
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:5>2 Timothy 2:5</verse></h3>




(3) And if a man also strive for masteries, [yet] is he not crowned, except he strive lawfully.



(3) The third admonition: the ministry is similar to a game in which men strive for the victory, and
no man is crowned, unless he strive according to the laws which are prescribed, be they ever so hard
and painful.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:6
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:6>2 Timothy 2:6</verse></h3>




(4) The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.

<page=3179>(4) Another similarity with respect to the same matter: no man may look for the harvest, unless he
first take pains to plow and sow his ground.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:7
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:7>2 Timothy 2:7</verse></h3>




(5) Consider what I say; and the Lord give thee understanding in all things.



(5) All these things cannot be understood, and much less practised, unless we ask of God and he
gives us understanding.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:8
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:8>2 Timothy 2:8</verse></h3>




(6) Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my
gospel:



(6) He confirms plainly two principles of our faith, which are alway assaulted by heretics, the one of
which (that is, that Christ is the true Messiah, made man of the seed of David) is the ground of our
salvation: and the other is the highest part of it, that is, that he is risen again from the dead.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:9
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:9>2 Timothy 2:9</verse></h3>




(7) Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, [even] unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.



(7) The taking away of an objection: it is true that he is kept in prison as an evildoer, yet there is no
reason why some should therefore go about to take away credit from his Gospel. And this is because
God has blessed his ministry; indeed, the example of this his captivity and patience, did rather in
different ways strengthen and encourage his Church in the hope of a better life.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:11
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:11>2 Timothy 2:11</verse></h3>




(8) [It is] a faithful saying: For if we be (c) dead with [him], we shall also live with [him]:



(8) The fourth admonition: we ought not to contend upon words and questions, which are not only
unprofitable, but also for the most part hurtful: but rather upon this, how we may compose
ourselves to every manner of patience, and to die also with Christ (that is to say, for Christ's name)
because that is the plain way to the most glorious life. And contrary to this, the falling away of men
can diminish no part of the truth of God, even though by such means they procure most certain
destruction to themselves.



(c) If we are afflicted with Christ, and for Christ's sake.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:14
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:14>2 Timothy 2:14</verse></h3>

<page=3180>Of these things put [them] in remembrance, (d) charging [them] before the Lord that they strive not
about words to no profit, [but] to the subverting of the hearers.



(d) Call God to witness, or as a Judge: as Moses, Joshua, Samuel, and Paul himself did, in Acts 13.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:15
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:15>2 Timothy 2:15</verse></h3>




(9) Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, (e)
rightly dividing the word of truth.



(9) The fifth admonition: a minister must not be an idle disputer, but a faithful steward in correctly
dividing the word of truth, in so much that he must stop the mouths of other vain babblers.



(e) By adding nothing to it, neither deleting anything, neither mangling it, nor rending it apart, nor
distorting it: but marking diligently what his hearers are able to bear, and what is fit to edifying.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:16
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:16>2 Timothy 2:16</verse></h3>




(f) But shun profane [and] vain babblings: (10) for they will increase unto more ungodliness.



(f) Mark and watch, and see that they do not creep on further.



(10) He reveals the subtilty of Satan, who beginning with these principles, draws us by little and little
to ungodliness through the means of that wicked and profane babbling, which gradually increases.
And this he proves by the horrible example of those that taught that the resurrection was already
past.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:19
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:19>2 Timothy 2:19</verse></h3>




(11) Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them
that are his. And, Let every one that (g) nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.



(11) A digression, in which he heals the offence that rose by their falling away. Firstly, he shows that
the elect are out of all danger of any such falling away. Secondly, that they are known to God, and
not to us: and therefore it is no marvel if we often mistake hypocrites for true brethren. But we
must take heed that we are not like them, but rather that we are indeed such as we are said to be.



(g) That serves and worships him, and as it were named of him, a faithful man or Christian.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:20
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:20>2 Timothy 2:20</verse></h3>




(12) But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of
earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.

<page=3181>(12) The taking away of an objection: it is not dishonour to the good man of the house, that he has
not in a great house all vessels of one sort and for one service, but we must look to this, that we are
found vessels prepared to honour.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:21
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:21>2 Timothy 2:21</verse></h3>



If a man therefore (h) purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and
meet for the master's use, [and] prepared unto every good work.



(h) By these words is meant the execution of the matter, and not the cause: for in that we purge
ourselves, it is not to be attributed to any free will that is in us, but to God, who freely and wholly
works in us, a good and an effectual will.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:22
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:22>2 Timothy 2:22</verse></h3>




(13) Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, (14) peace, with them that call
on the Lord out of a pure heart.



(13) Returning to the matter from where he digressed in (<bcv=2Ti 2:16>Ti2 2:16</bcv>), he warns him to exercise himself
in serious matters, and such as pertain to godliness.



(14) The sixth admonition: we must above all things avoid all bitterness of mind, both in teaching all
men, and also in calling those back who have gone out of the way.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:24
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:24>2 Timothy 2:24</verse></h3>



And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all [men], apt to teach, (i) patient,



(i) To win them through our patient bearing with them, but not to please them or excuse them in
their wickedness.
#BCV:2 Timothy 2:25
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 2:25>2 Timothy 2:25</verse></h3>



In meekness instructing those that (k) oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them
repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;



(k) He means those who do not yet see the truth.

<h2>2 Timothy 3</h2>

#BCV:2 Timothy 3:1
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 3:1>2 Timothy 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=3182>This (1) know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.



(1) The seventh admonition: we may not hope for a Church in this world without corruption: but
there will be rather great abundance of most wicked men even in the very bosom of the Church,
who will nonetheless make a show and countenance of great holiness, and charity.
#BCV:2 Timothy 3:2
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 3:2>2 Timothy 3:2</verse></h3>



For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to
parents, unthankful, (a) unholy,



(a) Who make no account, either of right or honesty.
#BCV:2 Timothy 3:5
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 3:5>2 Timothy 3:5</verse></h3>



Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: (2) from such turn away.



(2) We must not tarry with those men who resist the truth not from simple ignorance, but from a
perverse mind, (which thing appears by their fruits which he graphically displays here); rather, we
must turn away from them.
#BCV:2 Timothy 3:9
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 3:9>2 Timothy 3:9</verse></h3>




(3) But they shall proceed no further: for their folly shall be manifest unto all [men], as theirs also
was.



(3) He adds a comfort: the Lord will at length take off all their masks.
#BCV:2 Timothy 3:10
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 3:10>2 Timothy 3:10</verse></h3>




(4) But thou hast (b) fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity,
patience,



(4) So that we are not deceived by such hypocrites, we must set before us the virtues of the holy
servants of God, and we must not be afraid of persecution which they suffered willingly, and which
always follows true godliness. But we must especially hold fast the doctrine of the apostles, the sum
of which is this, that we are saved through faith in Christ Jesus.



(b) You thoroughly know not only what I taught and did, but also how I thought and was inclined.

#BCV:2 Timothy 3:11
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 3:11>2 Timothy 3:11</verse></h3>


Persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at (c) Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what
persecutions I endured: but out of [them] all the Lord delivered me.



(c) Which is in Pisidia.
#BCV:2 Timothy 3:13
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 3:13>2 Timothy 3:13</verse></h3>



But evil men and seducers shall wax (d) worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived.



(d) Their wickedness will daily increase.
#BCV:2 Timothy 3:16
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 3:16>2 Timothy 3:16</verse></h3>




(5) All scripture [is] given by inspiration of God, and [is] profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for
correction, for instruction in righteousness:



(5) The eighth admonition which is most precious: a pastor must be wise by the word of God alone:
in which we have perfectly delivered to us, whatever pertains to discerning, knowing and establishing
true opinions, and to prove which opinions are false: and furthermore, to correct evil manners, and
to establish good.
#BCV:2 Timothy 3:17
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 3:17>2 Timothy 3:17</verse></h3>



That the (e) man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.



(e) The Prophets and expounders of God's will are properly and distinctly called, men of God.

<h2>2 Timothy 4</h2>

#BCV:2 Timothy 4:1
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 4:1>2 Timothy 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=3184>I (1) charge [thee] therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and
the dead at his appearing and his kingdom;



(1) The principal and chief of all admonitions, being therefore proposed with a most earnest charge,
is this: that the word of God is explained and set forth with a certain holy urgent exhorting, as
necessity requires: but in such a way that a good and true ground of the doctrine is laid, and the
vehemency is tempered with all holy meekness.
#BCV:2 Timothy 4:3
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 4:3>2 Timothy 4:3</verse></h3>




(2) For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall
they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears;



(2) Faithful pastors in times past took all occasions they could, because men were very prompt and
ready to return to their fables.
#BCV:2 Timothy 4:4
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 4:4>2 Timothy 4:4</verse></h3>



And they shall turn away [their] ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto (a) fables.



(a) To false and unprofitable doctrines which the world is now so bewitched with, that it would
rather have the open light of the truth completely put out, than it would come out of darkness.
#BCV:2 Timothy 4:5
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 4:5>2 Timothy 4:5</verse></h3>




(3) But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, (b) make full proof
of thy ministry.



(3) The wickedness and falling away of the world ought to cause faithful ministers to be so much the
more careful.



(b) Prove and show by good and substantial proof, that you are the true minister of God.
#BCV:2 Timothy 4:6
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 4:6>2 Timothy 4:6</verse></h3>




(4) For I am now ready to be (c) offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.



(4) He foretells his death to be at hand, and sets before them an excellent example, both of
invincible constancy, and sure hope.

<page=3185>(c) To be offered for a drink offering: and he alludes to the pouring out of blood or wine which was
used in sacrifices.
#BCV:2 Timothy 4:9
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 4:9>2 Timothy 4:9</verse></h3>




(5) Do thy diligence to come shortly unto me:



(5) The last part of the epistle, setting forth grievous complaints against certain ones, and examples
of singular godliness in every place, and of a mind never wearied.
#BCV:2 Timothy 4:10
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 4:10>2 Timothy 4:10</verse></h3>



For Demas hath forsaken me, having (d) loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica;
Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia.



(d) Contented himself with this world.
#BCV:2 Timothy 4:17
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 4:17>2 Timothy 4:17</verse></h3>



Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be
fully known, and [that] all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the (e)
lion.



(e) Of Nero.
#BCV:2 Timothy 4:18
<h3><verse=2 Timothy 4:18>2 Timothy 4:18</verse></h3>



And the Lord shall deliver me from every (f) evil work, and will preserve [me] unto his (g) heavenly
kingdom: to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen.



(f) Preserve me pure from committing anything unworthy of my apostleship.



(g) To make me partaker of his kingdom.

<h1>Titus</h1>


<h2>Titus 1</h2>

#BCV:Titus 1:1
<h3><verse=Titus 1:1>Titus 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=3187>Paul, (1) a (a) servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's (b)
elect, (2) and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness;



(1) He vouches his apostleship (not for Titus, but for the Cretian's sake) both by the testimony of
his outward calling, and by his consent in which he agrees with all the elect from the beginning of
the world.



(a) A minister, as Christ himself, in his office of minister and head of the Prophets, is called a
servant; (<bcv=Isa 43:10>Isa 43:10</bcv>).



(b) Of those whom God has chosen. (2) The faith in which all the elect agree, is the true and sincere
knowledge of God for this purpose, that worshipping God correctly, they may at length obtain
everlasting life according to the promise of God, who is true, which promise was exhibited in Christ
in due time according to his eternal purpose.
#BCV:Titus 1:2
<h3><verse=Titus 1:2>Titus 1:2</verse></h3>



In (c) hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, (d) promised before the (e) world began;



(c) Hope is the end of faith.



(d) Freely and only from his generosity.



(e) See <bcv=2Ti 1:9>Ti2 1:9</bcv>

#BCV:Titus 1:3
<h3><verse=Titus 1:3>Titus 1:3</verse></h3>


(3) But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me
according to the commandment of God our (f) Saviour;



(3) This truth is not to be sought anywhere else, but in the preaching of the apostles.



(f) This word "Saviour" does not only signify a preserver of life, but also a giver of life.
#BCV:Titus 1:4
<h3><verse=Titus 1:4>Titus 1:4</verse></h3>




(4) To Titus, [mine] own son after the common faith: (5) Grace, mercy, [and] peace, from God the
Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Saviour.

<page=3188>(4) The apostle exhorts the Cretians to hear Titus, by setting forth his consent and agreement with
them in the faith, and in addition shows by what special note we may distinguish true ministers from
false. (5) There is but one way of salvation, common both to the pastor and the flock.
#BCV:Titus 1:5
<h3><verse=Titus 1:5>Titus 1:5</verse></h3>




(6) For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and
ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee:



(6) The first admonition: to ordain elders in every church.
#BCV:Titus 1:6
<h3><verse=Titus 1:6>Titus 1:6</verse></h3>



If any be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children not accused of riot or (g)
unruly.



(g) This word is used of horses and oxen, who will not tolerate the yoke.
#BCV:Titus 1:7
<h3><verse=Titus 1:7>Titus 1:7</verse></h3>




(7) For a bishop must be blameless, as the (h) steward of God; not (i) selfwilled, not soon angry, not
given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre;



(7) The second admonition: what faults pastors (whom he referred to before under the word elders)
ought to be void of, and what virtues they ought to have.



(h) Whom the Lord has appointed steward of his gifts.



(i) Not stubborn and hard to please.
#BCV:Titus 1:8
<h3><verse=Titus 1:8>Titus 1:8</verse></h3>



But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, (k) sober, just, holy, temperate;



(k) Cautious, and of a sound judgment, and of a singular example of moderation.
#BCV:Titus 1:9
<h3><verse=Titus 1:9>Titus 1:9</verse></h3>




(8) Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, (9) that he may be able by sound doctrine
both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.



(8) The third admonition: the pastor must hold fast that doctrine which the apostles delivered, and
pertains to salvation, leaving behind all curious and vain matters. (9) The fourth admonition: to
apply the knowledge of true doctrine to use, which consists in two things, that is, in governing those
who show themselves able to learn, and confuting the obstinate.
#BCV:Titus 1:10
<h3><verse=Titus 1:10>Titus 1:10</verse></h3>


<page=3189>(10) For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the (l) circumcision:



(10) An applying of the general proposition to a particular: the Cretians above all others need sharp
reprehensions: both because their minds are naturally given to lies and slothfulness, and because of
certain covetous Jews, who under a pretence of godliness, partly combined certain vain traditions,
and partly old ceremonies with the Gospel.



(l) Of the Jews, or rather of those Jews who went about to join Christ and the Law.
#BCV:Titus 1:12
<h3><verse=Titus 1:12>Titus 1:12</verse></h3>




(m) One of themselves, [even] a prophet of their own, said, The Cretians [are] alway liars, evil beasts,
slow bellies.



(m) Epimenides, who was considered a prophet amongst them. See Laertius, and Cicero in his first
book of divination.
#BCV:Titus 1:13
<h3><verse=Titus 1:13>Titus 1:13</verse></h3>



This witness is true. Wherefore rebuke them (n) sharply, that they may be sound in the faith;



(n) Clearly and plainly, and do not go about the bush with them.
#BCV:Titus 1:15
<h3><verse=Titus 1:15>Titus 1:15</verse></h3>




(11) Unto the pure all things [are] pure: but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving [is] nothing
pure; but even their (o) mind and conscience is defiled.



(11) He shows in few words, that purity consists not in any external worship, and that which is
according to the old Law (as indifference of meats, and washings, and other such things which are
abolished) but in the mind and conscience. And whoever teaches otherwise, does not know what
true religion really is, and also is not to be heeded.



(o) If our minds and consciences are unclean, what cleanness is there in us before regeneration?

<h2>Titus 2</h2>

#BCV:Titus 2:1
<h3><verse=Titus 2:1>Titus 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=3190>But (1) speak thou the things which become sound doctrine:



(1) The fifth admonition: the doctrine must not only be generally pure, but also be applied to all ages
and orders of men, according to the diversity of circumstances.
#BCV:Titus 2:2
<h3><verse=Titus 2:2>Titus 2:2</verse></h3>




(2) That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.



(2) What are the principal virtues for old and young, both men and women: and how they ought to
be stirred up to do them continually.
#BCV:Titus 2:5
<h3><verse=Titus 2:5>Titus 2:5</verse></h3>



[To be] discreet, chaste, (a) keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of
God be not blasphemed.



(a) Not roving about idly.
#BCV:Titus 2:7
<h3><verse=Titus 2:7>Titus 2:7</verse></h3>




(3) In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine [shewing] uncorruptness, (b)
gravity, sincerity,



(3) The sixth admonition: that both the pastor's life and doctrine must be sound.



(b) Not such a gravity as may drive men from coming to the minister, but such as may cause them to
come in a most reverent and honest way.
#BCV:Titus 2:9
<h3><verse=Titus 2:9>Titus 2:9</verse></h3>




(4) [Exhort] servants to be obedient unto their own masters, [and] to please [them] well in all (c)
[things]; not answering again;



(4) The seventh admonition, concerning the duty of servants to their masters.



(c) Which may be done without offence to God.
#BCV:Titus 2:11
<h3><verse=Titus 2:11>Titus 2:11</verse></h3>




(5) For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,

<page=3191>(5) The eighth admonition belongs to all the godly: seeing that God calls all men to the Gospel, and
Christ has so justified us, that he has also sanctified us, all of us must therefore give ourselves to true
godliness, and righteousness, setting before us a sure hope of that immeasurable glory. And this
thing must be so learned by them that the deniers also must be reproved, by the authority of the
mighty God.
#BCV:Titus 2:12
<h3><verse=Titus 2:12>Titus 2:12</verse></h3>



Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and (d) worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and
godly, in this present world;



(d) Lusts of the flesh, which belong to the present state of this life and world.
#BCV:Titus 2:13
<h3><verse=Titus 2:13>Titus 2:13</verse></h3>




(e) Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour
Jesus Christ;



(e) Christ is here most plainly called that mighty God, and his appearance and coming is called by
the figure of speech metonymy, our hope.
#BCV:Titus 2:14
<h3><verse=Titus 2:14>Titus 2:14</verse></h3>



Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a (f)
peculiar people, zealous of good works.



(f) As it were a thing peculiarly laid aside for himself.
#BCV:Titus 2:15
<h3><verse=Titus 2:15>Titus 2:15</verse></h3>



These things speak, and exhort, and rebuke with all (g) authority. Let no man despise thee.



(g) With all authority possible.

<h2>Titus 3</h2>

#BCV:Titus 3:1
<h3><verse=Titus 3:1>Titus 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=3192>Put (1) them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to
every good work,



(1) He declares particularly and separately that which he said before generally, noting out certain
main and principal duties which men owe to men, and especially subjects to their magistrates.
#BCV:Titus 3:3
<h3><verse=Titus 3:3>Titus 3:3</verse></h3>




(2) For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and
pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, [and] hating one another.



(2) He confirms again the former exhortation by propounding the free benefit of our regeneration,
the symbol of which is our baptism. (Ed.)
#BCV:Titus 3:5
<h3><verse=Titus 3:5>Titus 3:5</verse></h3>



Not by works of (a) righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by
the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the (b) Holy Ghost;



(a) Literally, "of works which are done in righteousness": and this passage fully refutes the doctrine
of meritorious works.



(b) Which the power of the Holy Spirit works.
#BCV:Titus 3:8
<h3><verse=Titus 3:8>Titus 3:8</verse></h3>




(3) [This is] a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have
believed in God might be careful to maintain (c) good works. These things are good and profitable
unto men.



(3) Again with great earnestness emphasises how we ought to give ourselves to true godliness and
avoid all vain questions, which serve to nothing but to cause strife and debate.



(c) Give themselves earnestly to good works.
#BCV:Titus 3:10
<h3><verse=Titus 3:10>Titus 3:10</verse></h3>




(4) A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition reject;



(4) The ministers of the word must at once cast off heretics, that is, those who stubbornly and
seditiously disquiet the Church, and will pay no attention to ecclesiastical admonitions.
#BCV:Titus 3:12
<h3><verse=Titus 3:12>Titus 3:12</verse></h3>


<page=3193>(5) When I shall send Artemas unto thee, or Tychicus, be diligent to come unto me to Nicopolis: for
I have determined there to winter.



(5) Last of all, he writes a word or two regarding personal matters, and commends certain men.

<h1>Philemon</h1>


<h2>Philemon 1</h2>

#BCV:Philemon 1:6
<h3><verse=Philemon 1:6>Philemon 1:6</verse></h3>

<page=3195>That the (a) communication of thy faith may become effectual by the (b) acknowledging of every
good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.



(a) By fellowship of faith, he means those duties of charity which are given to the saints, and flow
from a productive faith.



(b) That by this means all men may perceive how rich you are in Christ, that is, in faith, charity, and
all bountifulness.
#BCV:Philemon 1:7
<h3><verse=Philemon 1:7>Philemon 1:7</verse></h3>



For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because
the (c) bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.



(c) Because you did so dutifully and cheerfully refresh the saints, that they conceived inwardly a
marvellous joy: for by this word



(bowels) is meant not only the inward feeling of wants and miseries that men have of one another's
state, but also that joy and comfort which enters into the very bowels, as though the heart were
refreshed and comforted.
#BCV:Philemon 1:9
<h3><verse=Philemon 1:9>Philemon 1:9</verse></h3>




(1) Yet for love's sake I rather beseech [thee], being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a
prisoner of Jesus Christ.



(1) An example of a Christian exercise and commendation for another man.
#BCV:Philemon 1:12
<h3><verse=Philemon 1:12>Philemon 1:12</verse></h3>



Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own (d) bowels:



(d) As my own son, and as if I had begotten him from my own body.
#BCV:Philemon 1:14
<h3><verse=Philemon 1:14>Philemon 1:14</verse></h3>

<page=3196>But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of (e) necessity,
but willingly.



(e) That you might not seem to have lent me your servant on constraint, but willingly.
#BCV:Philemon 1:15
<h3><verse=Philemon 1:15>Philemon 1:15</verse></h3>



For perhaps he therefore (f) departed for (g) a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever;



(f) He uses a more gentle type of speech, but in reality, he ran away.



(g) For a little time.
#BCV:Philemon 1:16
<h3><verse=Philemon 1:16>Philemon 1:16</verse></h3>



Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more
unto thee, both in the (h) flesh, and in the Lord?



(h) Because he is your servant, as other servants are, and because he is the Lord's servant, you must
love him both for the Lord's sake and for your own sake.
#BCV:Philemon 1:20
<h3><verse=Philemon 1:20>Philemon 1:20</verse></h3>




(i) Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.



(i) Good brother let me obtain this benefit at your hand.

<h1>Hebrews</h1>


<h2>Hebrews 1</h2>

#BCV:Hebrews 1:1
<h3><verse=Hebrews 1:1>Hebrews 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=3197>God, who at (1) sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the
prophets,
The purpose of this epistle, is to show that Jesus Christ the Son of God both God and man is that
true eternal and only Prophet, King and High Priest, that was shadowed by the figures of the old law,
and is now indeed exhibited of whom the whole Church ought to be taught, governed and
sanctified.



(1) The first part of the general proposition of this epistle the son of God is indeed that prophet or
teacher, who has actually now performed that which God after a sort and in shadows signified by his
prophets, and has fully revealed his Father's will to the world.
#BCV:Hebrews 1:2
<h3><verse=Hebrews 1:2>Hebrews 1:2</verse></h3>



Hath in these (a) last days spoken unto us by [his] (b) Son, (2) whom he hath appointed (c) heir of
all things, by whom also he made the (d) worlds;



(a) So that the former declaration made by the prophets was not complete, and nothing must be
added to this latter.



(b) That one Son is God and man. (2) The second part of the same statement: The same Son is
appointed by the Father to be our king and Lord, by whom also he made all things: and in whom
only he sets forth his glory, yea and himself also to be under obligation to us, who upholds and
supports all things by his will and pleasure.



(c) Possessor and equal partner of all things with the Father.



(d) That is, whatever has been at any time, is, or shall be.
#BCV:Hebrews 1:3
<h3><verse=Hebrews 1:3>Hebrews 1:3</verse></h3>



Who being the (e) brightness of [his] glory, and the express image of his (f) person, and (g)
upholding all things by the word of his power, (3) when he had by himself purged our sins, (h) sat
down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;



(e) He in whom the glory and majesty of the Father shines, who is otherwise infinite, and cannot be
under obligation.



(f) His Father's person.

<page=3198>(g) Sustains, defends and cherishes. (3) The third part of the same proposition: The same Son
executed the office of the High Priest in offering up himself, and is our only and most mighty
Mediator in heaven.



(h) This shows that the savour of that his sacrifice is not only most acceptable to the Father, but also
is everlasting, and furthermore how far this High Priest surpasses all the other high priests.
#BCV:Hebrews 1:4
<h3><verse=Hebrews 1:4>Hebrews 1:4</verse></h3>




(4) Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent (i)
name than they.



(4) Before he comes to declare the office of Christ, he sets forth the excellency of his person. First
of all he shows him to be man, and that in addition he is God also.



(i) Dignity and honour.
#BCV:Hebrews 1:5
<h3><verse=Hebrews 1:5>Hebrews 1:5</verse></h3>




(5) For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, (k) this day have I begotten
thee? (6) And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?



(5) He proves and confirms the dignity of Christ revealed in the flesh, by these six evident
testimonies by which it appears that he far surpasses all angels, so much so that he is called both Son,
and God in (<bcv=Heb 1:5-8>Heb 1:5-8</bcv>,<bcv=Heb 1:10> Heb 1:10</bcv>,<bcv=Heb 1:13> Heb 1:13</bcv>).



(k) The Father begat the Son from everlasting, but that everlasting generation was revealed and
represented to the world in his time, and therefore he added this word "Today" (6) He proves and
confirms the dignity of Christ revealed in the flesh, by these six evident testimonies by which it
appears that he far surpasses all angels, so much so that he is called both Son, and God in (<bcv=Heb 1:5>Heb 1:5-</bcv>
8,<bcv=Heb 1:10> Heb 1:10</bcv>,<bcv=Heb 1:13> Heb 1:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Hebrews 1:6
<h3><verse=Hebrews 1:6>Hebrews 1:6</verse></h3>




(7) And (l) again, when he bringeth in the firstbegotten into the world, he saith, And let all the angels
of God worship him.



(7) He proves and confirms the dignity of Christ revealed in the flesh, by these six evident
testimonies by which it appears that he far surpasses all angels, so much so that he is called both Son,
and God in (<bcv=Heb 1:5-8>Heb 1:5-8</bcv>,<bcv=Heb 1:10> Heb 1:10</bcv>,<bcv=Heb 1:13> Heb 1:13</bcv>).



(l) The Lord was not content to have spoken it once, but he repeats it in another place.
#BCV:Hebrews 1:7
<h3><verse=Hebrews 1:7>Hebrews 1:7</verse></h3>


<page=3199>(8) And of the angels he saith, Who maketh his angels (m) spirits, and his ministers a (n) flame of
fire.



(8) He proves and confirms the dignity of Christ revealed in the flesh, by these six evident
testimonies by which it appears that he far surpasses all angels, so much so that he is called both Son,
and God in (<bcv=Heb 1:5-8>Heb 1:5-8</bcv>,<bcv=Heb 1:10> Heb 1:10</bcv>,<bcv=Heb 1:13> Heb 1:13</bcv>).



(m) Cherub, (<bcv=Psa 18:11>Psa 18:11</bcv>).



(n) Seraph, (<bcv=Isa 6:2>Isa 6:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Hebrews 1:8
<h3><verse=Hebrews 1:8>Hebrews 1:8</verse></h3>



But unto the Son [he saith], Thy (o) throne, O God, [is] for ever (p) and ever: a (q) sceptre of
righteousness [is] the sceptre of thy kingdom.



(o) The throne is proper for princes and not for servants.



(p) For everlasting, for this repeating of the word increases the significance of it beyond all measure.



(q) The government of your kingdom is righteous.
#BCV:Hebrews 1:9
<h3><verse=Hebrews 1:9>Hebrews 1:9</verse></h3>



Thou hast loved righteousness, and hated (r) iniquity; therefore God, [even] thy God, hath (s)
anointed thee with the oil of gladness above thy (t) fellows.



(r) This type of speech in which the Jews use contrasting phrases, has great force in it.



(s) In that, that the word became flesh, by sending the Holy Spirit on him without measure.



(t) For he is the head and we are his members.
#BCV:Hebrews 1:10
<h3><verse=Hebrews 1:10>Hebrews 1:10</verse></h3>




(9) And, Thou, Lord, in the beginning hast (u) laid the foundation of the earth; and the heavens are
the works of thine hands:



(9) He proves and confirms the dignity of Christ revealed in the flesh, by these six evident
testimonies by which it appears that he far surpasses all angels, so much so that he is called both Son,
and God in (<bcv=Heb 1:5-8>Heb 1:5-8</bcv>,<bcv=Heb 1:10> Heb 1:10</bcv>,<bcv=Heb 1:13> Heb 1:13</bcv>).



(u) Made the earth firm and sure.
#BCV:Hebrews 1:13
<h3><verse=Hebrews 1:13>Hebrews 1:13</verse></h3>


<page=3200>(10) But to which of the angels said he at any time, Sit on my right hand, until I make thine enemies
thy footstool?



(10) He proves and confirms the dignity of Christ revealed in the flesh, by these six evident
testimonies by which it appears that he far surpasses all angels, so much so that he is called both Son,
and God in (<bcv=Heb 1:5-8>Heb 1:5-8</bcv>,<bcv=Heb 1:10> Heb 1:10</bcv>,<bcv=Heb 1:13> Heb 1:13</bcv>).
#BCV:Hebrews 1:14
<h3><verse=Hebrews 1:14>Hebrews 1:14</verse></h3>



Are they not all (x) ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?



(x) By that name by which we commonly call princes messengers, he here calls the spirits.

<h2>Hebrews 2</h2>

#BCV:Hebrews 2:1
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:1>Hebrews 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=3201>Therefore (1) we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which (a) we have heard, lest at
any time we (b) should let [them] slip.



(1) Now pausing to show to what end and purpose all these things were spoken, that is, to
understand by the excellency of Christ above all creatures, that his doctrine, majesty and priesthood,
is most perfect, he uses an exhortation taken from a comparison.



(a) He makes himself a hearer.



(b) They are said to let the word run out, who do not hold it securely and remember the word when
they have heard it.
#BCV:Hebrews 2:2
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:2>Hebrews 2:2</verse></h3>



For if the (c) word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received
a just recompence of reward;



(c) The Law which appointed punishment for the offenders: and which Paul says was given by angels,



(<bcv=Gal 3:19>Gal 3:19</bcv>) and by Stephen also in, (<bcv=Acts 7:53>Act 7:53</bcv>).
#BCV:Hebrews 2:3
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:3>Hebrews 2:3</verse></h3>



How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; (2) which at the first began to be spoken by
the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by (d) them that heard [him];



(2) If the neglect and disobedience of the word spoken by angels was not left unpunished, much
less will it be tolerated if we neglect the gospel which the Lord of angels preached, and was
confirmed by the voice of the apostles, and with so many signs and wonders from heaven, and
especially with great and mighty working of the Holy Spirit.



(d) By the apostles.
#BCV:Hebrews 2:4
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:4>Hebrews 2:4</verse></h3>



God also bearing [them] witness, both with (e) signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts
of the Holy Ghost, according to his own will?



(e) This is the true purpose of miracles. Now they are called signs, because they appear as one thing,
and represent another: and they are called wonders, because they represent some strange and
unaccustomed thing: and powers because they give us a glimpse of God's mighty power.
#BCV:Hebrews 2:5
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:5>Hebrews 2:5</verse></h3>

#BCV:heb 2:5
<h3><verse=heb 2:5>heb 2:5</verse></h3>




(3) If it was an atrocious matter to condemn the angels who are but servants, it is much more
atrocious to condemn that most mighty King of the restored world.



(f) The world to come, of which Christ is Father, (<bcv=Isa 9:6>Isa 9:6</bcv>) or the Church, which as a new world, was
to be gathered together by the gospel.
#BCV:Hebrews 2:6
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:6>Hebrews 2:6</verse></h3>




(4) But one in a certain place testified, saying, (g) What is man, that thou art mindful of him? or the



(h) son of man, that thou visitest him?



(4) He shows that the use of this kingly dignity exists in this, that men might not only in Christ
recognise the dignity which they have lost, but also might be through him advanced above all things,
which dignity of men David describes most excellently.



(g) What is there in man that you should have such a great regard for him, and do him that honour?



(h) He refers to all the citizens of the heavenly kingdom as they are considered to be, before God
gives them the freedom of that city in Christ, man, and sons of man.
#BCV:Hebrews 2:7
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:7>Hebrews 2:7</verse></h3>



Thou (i) madest him a little lower than the angels; thou crownedst him with (k) glory and honour,
and didst set him over the works of thy hands:



(i) This is the first honour of the citizens of the world to come, that they are beside the angels.



(k) For they will be greatly honoured when they partake of the kingdom. He speaks of the thing that
will be, as though it were already, because it is so certain.
#BCV:Hebrews 2:8
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:8>Hebrews 2:8</verse></h3>



Thou hast put all things in subjection under his feet. For in that he put all in subjection under him,
he left nothing [that is] not put under him. (5) But now we see not yet all things put under him.



(5) An objection: But where is this great rule and dominion?
#BCV:Hebrews 2:9
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:9>Hebrews 2:9</verse></h3>




(6) But we (l) see Jesus, who was made a little (m) lower than the angels (7) for the (n) suffering of
death, crowned with glory and honour; that he by the grace of God should (o) taste death for (8)
every man.

<page=3203>(6) The answer: this is already fulfilled in Jesus Christ our head, who was temporarily for our sakes
inferior to the angels, being made man: but now is advanced into most high glory.



(l) By his virtue and power which appears revealed in the Church.



(m) Who abased himself for a time, and took the position of a servant. (7) He shows the cause of
this subjection, that is, to taste death for our sakes, that in so doing the part of a redeemer, he might
not only be our Prophet and King, but also our High Priest.



(n) That he might die.



(o) Feel death. (8) In this exists the force of the argument: for we could not eventually be glorified
with him, unless he was abased for us, even for all the elect. By this event the apostle comes to the
other part of the declaration of Christ's person, in which he proved him to be God and also man.
#BCV:Hebrews 2:10
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:10>Hebrews 2:10</verse></h3>




(9) For it became (p) him, for whom [are] all things, and by whom [are] all things, (10) in bringing
many sons unto glory, (11) to make the (q) captain of their salvation perfect through sufferings.



(9) He proves moreover by other arguments why it suited the Son of God who is true God (as he
proved a little before) to become man nonetheless, subject to all miseries, with the exception of sin.



(p) God.



(10) First of all because the Father, to whose glory all these things are to be referred, purposed to
bring many sons to glory. How could he have men for his sons, unless his only begotten son had
become a brother to men?



(11) Secondly the Father determined to bring those sons to glory, that is, out of that shame in which
they existed before. Therefore the son should not have been seen plainly to be made man, unless he
had been made like other men, that he might come to glory in the same way, he would bring others:
indeed rather, it suited him who was prince of the salvation of others, to be consecrated above
others through those afflictions, Prophet, King, and Priest, which are the offices of that government,
for the salvation of others.



(q) The Chieftain who as he is chiefest in dignity, so he is first begotten from the dead, among many
brethren.
#BCV:Hebrews 2:11
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:11>Hebrews 2:11</verse></h3>




(12) For both he that (r) sanctifieth and they who are sanctified [are] all of (s) one: for which cause
he is not ashamed to call them brethren,



(12) The basis for both of the former arguments, for we could not be sons through him, neither
could he be consecrated through afflictions, unless he had been made man like us. But because this
sonship depends not only on nature, for no man is accounted the son of God, unless he is also a
<page=3204>son of a man, he is also Christ's brother, (which is by sanctification, that is, by becoming one with
Christ, who sanctifies us through faith) therefore the apostle makes mention of the sanctifier, that is,
of Christ, and of them that are sanctified, that is, of all the elect, who Christ condescends to call
brethren.



(r) He uses the time to show us that we are still going on, and increasing in this sanctification: and by
sanctification he means our separation from the rest of the world, our cleansing from sin, and our
dedication wholly to God, all which Christ alone works in us.



(s) One, of the same nature of man.
#BCV:Hebrews 2:12
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:12>Hebrews 2:12</verse></h3>




(13) Saying, I will declare thy name unto my brethren, in the midst of the church will I sing praise
unto thee.



(13) That which he taught before about the incarnation of Christ, he applies to the prophetic office.
#BCV:Hebrews 2:13
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:13>Hebrews 2:13</verse></h3>




(14) And again, I will put my (t) trust in him. And again, (u) Behold I and the children which God
hath given me.



(14) He applies the same to the kingly power of Christ, in delivering his own from the power of the
devil and death.



(t) I will commit myself to him, and to his defence.



(u) This Isaiah speaks of himself and his disciples but signifying by this all ministers, as also his
disciples signify the whole Church. Therefore seeing Christ is the head of the prophets and ministers,
these words are more rightly confirmed by him, than by Isaiah.
#BCV:Hebrews 2:14
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:14>Hebrews 2:14</verse></h3>



Forasmuch then as the children are (x) partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took
part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the (y) power of death, that is,
the (z) devil;



(x) Are made of flesh and blood, which is a frail and delicate nature.



(y) The devil is said to have the power of death, because he is the author of sin: and from sin comes
death, and because of this he daily urges us to sin.



(z) He speaks of him as of a prince, placing over all his angels.
#BCV:Hebrews 2:15
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:15>Hebrews 2:15</verse></h3>

#BCV:heb 2:15
<h3><verse=heb 2:15>heb 2:15</verse></h3>




(a) By



(death) you must understand here, that death which is joined with the wrath of God, as it must be if
it is without Christ, and there can be nothing devised that is more miserable.
#BCV:Hebrews 2:16
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:16>Hebrews 2:16</verse></h3>




(15) For verily he took not on [him the (b) nature of] angels; but he took on [him] the (c) seed of
Abraham.



(15) He explains those words of flesh and blood, showing that Christ is true man, and not by
changing his divine nature, but by taking on man's nature. He names Abraham, regarding the
promises made to Abraham in this behalf.



(b) The nature of angels.



(c) The very nature of man.
#BCV:Hebrews 2:17
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:17>Hebrews 2:17</verse></h3>




(16) Wherefore in (d) all things it behoved him to be made like unto [his] brethren, that he might be
a (e) merciful and (f) faithful high priest in things [pertaining] to God, to make reconciliation for the
sins of the people.



(16) He applies the same to the priesthood, for which he would not have been suited, unless he had
become man, and like us in all things, sin being the exception.



(d) Not only concerning nature, but qualities too.



(e) That he might be truly touched with the feeling of our miseries.



(f) Doing his office sincerely.
#BCV:Hebrews 2:18
<h3><verse=Hebrews 2:18>Hebrews 2:18</verse></h3>



For in that he himself hath suffered being (g) tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.



(g) Was tried and urged to wickedness by the devil.

<h2>Hebrews 3</h2>

#BCV:Hebrews 3:1
<h3><verse=Hebrews 3:1>Hebrews 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=3206>Wherefore, (1) holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the (a) Apostle and High
Priest of our (b) profession, Christ Jesus;



(1) Having laid the foundation that is to say, declared and proved both the natures of one Christ, he
gives him three offices, that is, the office of a Prophet, King and Priest, and concerning the office of
teaching, and governing, compares him with Moses and Joshua from (<bcv=Heb 3:1-4>Hebrews 3:1-4</bcv>:14), and with
Aaron concerning the priesthood. He proposes that which he intends to speak of, with a grave
exhortation, that all our faith may be directed towards Christ, as the only everlasting teacher,
governor, and High Priest.



(a) The ambassador or messenger, as in (<bcv=Rom 15:8>Rom 15:8</bcv>) he is called the minister of circumcision.



(b) Of the doctrine of the gospel which we profess.
#BCV:Hebrews 3:2
<h3><verse=Hebrews 3:2>Hebrews 3:2</verse></h3>




(2) Who was faithful to him that (c) appointed him, (3) as also Moses [was faithful] in all his house.



(2) He confirms his exhortation with two reasons, first of all because Christ Jesus was appointed as
such by God: secondly, because he thoroughly executed the offices that his Father commanded him.



(c) Apostle and High Priest. (3) Now he comes to the comparison with Moses, and he makes them
like one another other in this, that they were both appointed rulers over God's house, and executed
faithfully their office: but he later shows that there is great dissimilarity in the same comparison.
#BCV:Hebrews 3:3
<h3><verse=Hebrews 3:3>Hebrews 3:3</verse></h3>




(4) For this [man] was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as he who hath builded
the house hath more honour than the house.



(4) The first comparison: The builder of the house is better than the house itself, therefore Christ is
better than Moses. The reason for the conclusion is this: because the builder of the house is God,
which cannot be attributed to Moses; and therefore Moses was not the builder, but a part of the
house: but Christ as Lord and God, made the house.
#BCV:Hebrews 3:5
<h3><verse=Hebrews 3:5>Hebrews 3:5</verse></h3>



And (5) Moses verily [was] faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things
which were to be spoken after;

<page=3207>(5) Another comparison: Moses was a faithful servant in this house, that is, in the Church, serving
the Lord that was to come, but Christ rules and governs his house as Lord.
#BCV:Hebrews 3:6
<h3><verse=Hebrews 3:6>Hebrews 3:6</verse></h3>



But Christ as a son over his own house; (6) whose (d) house are we, if we hold fast the (e)
confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end.



(6) He applies the former doctrine to his purpose, exhorting all men by the words of David to hear
the Son speak, and to give full credit to his words, seeing that otherwise they cannot enter into that
eternal rest.



(d) That is, Christ's.



(e) He calls confidence the excellent effect of faith (by which we cry Abba, that is, Father), and to
confidence he adds hope.
#BCV:Hebrews 3:7
<h3><verse=Hebrews 3:7>Hebrews 3:7</verse></h3>



Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye (f) will hear his voice,



(f) So that God was to speak once again after Moses.
#BCV:Hebrews 3:8
<h3><verse=Hebrews 3:8>Hebrews 3:8</verse></h3>



Harden not your hearts, as in the (g) provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:



(g) In the day that they troubled the Lord, or struggled with him.
#BCV:Hebrews 3:10
<h3><verse=Hebrews 3:10>Hebrews 3:10</verse></h3>



Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway (h) err in [their] heart; and
they have not known my ways.



(h) They are brutish and angry.
#BCV:Hebrews 3:12
<h3><verse=Hebrews 3:12>Hebrews 3:12</verse></h3>




(7) Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the
living God.



(7) Now consider in the words of David, he shows first by this word "today" that we must not
ignore the opportunity while we have it: for that word is not to be limited to David's time, but it
encompasses all the time in which God calls us.
#BCV:Hebrews 3:13
<h3><verse=Hebrews 3:13>Hebrews 3:13</verse></h3>

<page=3208>But exhort one another daily, (i) while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the
deceitfulness of sin.



(i) While today lasts, that is to say, so long as the gospel is offered to us.
#BCV:Hebrews 3:14
<h3><verse=Hebrews 3:14>Hebrews 3:14</verse></h3>




(8) For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the (k) beginning of our confidence stedfast
unto the end;



(8) Now he considers these words, "If you hear his voice" showing that they are spoken and meant
of the hearing of faith, opposite which he places hardening through unbelief.



(k) That beginning of trust and confidence: in the speech of the Hebrews, he calls "beginning" that
which is chiefest.
#BCV:Hebrews 3:15
<h3><verse=Hebrews 3:15>Hebrews 3:15</verse></h3>




(l) While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.



(l) So long as this voice sounds out.

<h2>Hebrews 4</h2>

#BCV:Hebrews 4:2
<h3><verse=Hebrews 4:2>Hebrews 4:2</verse></h3>


<page=3209>(1) For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit
them, not being (a) mixed with faith in them that heard [it].



(1) By these words "His voice" he shows that David meant the preaching of Christ, who was then
also preached, for Moses and the prophets honoured no one else.



(a) He compares the preaching of the gospel to drink, which being drunk, that is to say, heard,
profits nothing, unless it is mixed with faith.
#BCV:Hebrews 4:3
<h3><verse=Hebrews 4:3>Hebrews 4:3</verse></h3>




(2) For we which have believed do enter into rest, as he said, As I have sworn in my wrath, if they
shall enter into my rest: although the works were finished from the foundation of the world.



(2) Lest any man should object, that those words spoke refer to the land of Canaan and doctrine of
Moses, and therefore cannot applied to Christ and to eternal life, the apostle shows that there are
two types of rest spoken of in the scriptures: one being the seventh day, in which God is said to
have rested from all his works, the other is said to be the rest into which Joshua led the people. This
rest is not the last rest to which we are called, proven through two reasons. David long after,
speaking to the people which were then placed in the land of Canaan, uses these words "Today" and
threatens them still that they will not enter into the rest of God if they refuse the voice of God that
sounded in their ears. We must say that he meant another time than that of Moses, and another rest
than the land of Canaan. That rest is the everlasting rest, in which we begin to live to God, after the
race of this life ceases. God rested the seventh day from his works, that is to say, from making the
world. Moreover the apostle signifies that the way to this rest, which Moses and the land of Canaan,
and all the order of the Law foreshadowed, is revealed in the Gospel only.
#BCV:Hebrews 4:8
<h3><verse=Hebrews 4:8>Hebrews 4:8</verse></h3>



For if (b) Jesus had given them rest, then would he not afterward have spoken of another day.



(b) He speaks of Joshua the son of Nun: and as the land of Canaan was a figure of our true rest, so
was Joshua a figure of Christ.
#BCV:Hebrews 4:10
<h3><verse=Hebrews 4:10>Hebrews 4:10</verse></h3>




(c) For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God [did] from
his.

<page=3210>(c) As God rested the seventh day, so must we rest from our works, that is, from those things that
proceed from our corrupt nature.
#BCV:Hebrews 4:11
<h3><verse=Hebrews 4:11>Hebrews 4:11</verse></h3>




(3) Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest (d) any man fall after the same example of
unbelief.



(3) He returns to an exhortation.



(d) Lest any man become a similar example of infidelity.
#BCV:Hebrews 4:12
<h3><verse=Hebrews 4:12>Hebrews 4:12</verse></h3>




(4) For the (e) word of God [is] (f) quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword,
piercing even to the dividing asunder of (g) soul and (h) spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and [is]
a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.



(4) An amplification taken from the nature of the word of God, so powerful that it enters even to
the deepest and most inward and secret parts of the heart, fatally wounding the stubborn, and
openly reviving the believers.



(e) The doctrine of God which is preached both in the law and in the gospel.



(f) He calls the word of God living, because of the effect it has on those to whom it is preached.



(g) He calls the seat of emotions "soul".



(h) By "spirit" he means the mind.
#BCV:Hebrews 4:13
<h3><verse=Hebrews 4:13>Hebrews 4:13</verse></h3>



Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in (i) his sight: but all things [are] naked and opened
unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.



(i) In God's sight.
#BCV:Hebrews 4:14
<h3><verse=Hebrews 4:14>Hebrews 4:14</verse></h3>




(5) Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of
God, let us (k) hold fast [our] profession.



(5) Now he compares Christ's priesthood with Aaron's, and declares even in the very beginning the
marvellous excellency of this priesthood, calling him the Son of God, and placing him in the seat of
God in heaven, plainly and openly contrasting him with Aaron's priests, and the transitory tabernacle.
He expands on these comparisons in later passages.

<page=3211>(k) And let it not go out of our hands.
#BCV:Hebrews 4:15
<h3><verse=Hebrews 4:15>Hebrews 4:15</verse></h3>




(6) For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but
was in all points tempted like as [we are, yet] without sin.



(6) Lest he appear by the great glory of our High Priest, to prevent us from going to him, he adds
after, that he is nonetheless our brother indeed, (as he proved before) and that he counts all our
miseries as his own, to call us boldly to him.

<h2>Hebrews 5</h2>

#BCV:Hebrews 5:1
<h3><verse=Hebrews 5:1>Hebrews 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=3212>For (1) every high priest taken from among men is ordained for men in things [pertaining] to God,



(2) that he may offer both (a) gifts and (b) sacrifices for sins:



(1) The first part of the first comparison of Christ's high priesthood with Aaron's: Other high
priests are taken from among men, and are called after the order of men. (2) The first part of the
second comparison: Others though weak, are made high priests, to the end that feeling the same
infirmity in themselves which is in all the rest of the people, they should in their own and the
peoples name offer gifts and sacrifices, which are witnesses of common faith and repentance.



(a) Offering of things without life.



(b) Beasts which were killed, but especially in the sacrifices for sins and offences.
#BCV:Hebrews 5:2
<h3><verse=Hebrews 5:2>Hebrews 5:2</verse></h3>



Who (c) can have compassion on the ignorant, and (d) on them that are out of the way; for that he
himself also is (e) compassed with infirmity.



(c) Fit and meet.



(d) On them that are sinful: for in the Hebrew tongue, under ignorance and error is every sin meant,
even that sin that is voluntary.



(e) He carries with him a nature subject to the same inconveniences and vices.
#BCV:Hebrews 5:4
<h3><verse=Hebrews 5:4>Hebrews 5:4</verse></h3>




(3) And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as [was] Aaron.



(3) The third comparison which is complete: The others are called by God and so was Christ, but in
another order than Aaron. For Christ is called the Son, begotten by God and a Priest for ever after
the order of Melchizedek.
#BCV:Hebrews 5:6
<h3><verse=Hebrews 5:6>Hebrews 5:6</verse></h3>



As he saith also in another [place], Thou [art] a priest for ever after the (f) order of Melchisedec.



(f) After the likeness or manner as it is later declared.
#BCV:Hebrews 5:7
<h3><verse=Hebrews 5:7>Hebrews 5:7</verse></h3>


<page=3213>(4) Who in the days of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong
crying and tears unto him that was able to (h) save him from death, and was heard in that he feared;



(4) The other part of the second comparison: Christ being exceedingly afflicted and exceedingly
merciful did not pray because of his sins, for he had none, but for his fear, and obtained his request,
and offered himself for all who are his.



(h) To deliver him from death.
#BCV:Hebrews 5:8
<h3><verse=Hebrews 5:8>Hebrews 5:8</verse></h3>



Though he were a Son, yet (i) learned he obedience by the things which he suffered;



(i) He learned in deed what it is to have a Father, whom a man must obey.
#BCV:Hebrews 5:9
<h3><verse=Hebrews 5:9>Hebrews 5:9</verse></h3>




(5) And being made (k) perfect, he became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey
him;



(5) The other part of the first comparison: Christ was consecrated by God the Father as the author
of our salvation, and an High Priest for ever, and therefore he is a man, though nonetheless he is far
above all men.



(k) See (<bcv=Heb 2:10>Heb 2:10</bcv>).
#BCV:Hebrews 5:11
<h3><verse=Hebrews 5:11>Hebrews 5:11</verse></h3>




(6) Of whom we have many things to say, and hard to be uttered, seeing ye are dull of hearing.



(6) A digression until he comes to the beginning of the seventh chapter; (<bcv=Heb 5:11>Hebrews 5:11-6</bcv>:20): in
which he partly holds the Hebrews in the diligent consideration of those things which he has said,
and partly prepares them for the understanding of those things of which he will speak.
#BCV:Hebrews 5:12
<h3><verse=Hebrews 5:12>Hebrews 5:12</verse></h3>




(7) For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which [be]
the first principles of the oracles of God; and are become such as have need of milk, and not of
strong meat.



(7) An example of an apostolic exhortation.
#BCV:Hebrews 5:13
<h3><verse=Hebrews 5:13>Hebrews 5:13</verse></h3>



For every one that useth milk [is] unskilful in the (l) word of righteousness: for he is a babe.

<page=3214>(l) In the word that teaches righteousness.
#BCV:Hebrews 5:14
<h3><verse=Hebrews 5:14>Hebrews 5:14</verse></h3>



But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, [even] those who by reason of use have their



(m) senses exercised to discern both good and evil.



(m) All their power by which they understand and judge.

<h2>Hebrews 6</h2>

#BCV:Hebrews 6:1
<h3><verse=Hebrews 6:1>Hebrews 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=3215>Therefore leaving the (a) principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; (1) not
laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God,



(a) The first principle of Christian religion, which we call the catechism. (1) Certain principles of a
catechism, which comprehend the sum of the doctrine of the gospel, were given in few words and
briefly to the poor and unlearned, that is, the profession of repentance and faith in God. The
articles of this doctrine were required from those who were not yet members of the Church on the
days appointed for their baptism. Of those articles, two are by name recited: the resurrection of the
dead, and eternal judgment. (Ed.)
#BCV:Hebrews 6:4
<h3><verse=Hebrews 6:4>Hebrews 6:4</verse></h3>




(2) For [it is] (b) impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have (c) tasted of the
heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,



(2) He adds a vehemency to his exhortation, and a sharp threatening of the certain destruction that
will come to them who fall away from God and his religion.



(b) He speaks of a general backsliding and those who fall away from the faith completely, not of sins
committed through the weakness of a man against the first and the second table of the law.



(c) We must note the force of this word, for it is one thing to believe as Lydia did, whose heart God
opened in (<bcv=Acts 16:13>Act 16:13</bcv>) and another thing to have some taste.
#BCV:Hebrews 6:6
<h3><verse=Hebrews 6:6>Hebrews 6:6</verse></h3>



If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they (d) crucify to themselves
the Son of God afresh, and put [him] to an open shame.



(d) As men that hate Christ, and as though they crucified him again, making a mockery of him to all
the world, to their own destruction, as Julian the Apostate or backslider did.
#BCV:Hebrews 6:7
<h3><verse=Hebrews 6:7>Hebrews 6:7</verse></h3>




(3) For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet
for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God:



(3) He lays out the former threatening with a comparison.
#BCV:Hebrews 6:9
<h3><verse=Hebrews 6:9>Hebrews 6:9</verse></h3>


<page=3216>(4) But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation,
though we thus speak.



(4) He moderates and calms all that sharpness, expecting better things of those to whom he writes.
#BCV:Hebrews 6:10
<h3><verse=Hebrews 6:10>Hebrews 6:10</verse></h3>




(5) For God [is] not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed
toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.



(5) He praises them for their charity, by this encouraging them to go forward, and to hold out to the
end.
#BCV:Hebrews 6:12
<h3><verse=Hebrews 6:12>Hebrews 6:12</verse></h3>




(6) That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the
promises.



(6) He shows in these verses that they need to go forward constantly, for their own good: that is, of
charity, and patience; and lest any man should object and say that these things are impossible to do,
he asks them to consider the examples of their ancestors and to follow them.
#BCV:Hebrews 6:13
<h3><verse=Hebrews 6:13>Hebrews 6:13</verse></h3>




(7) For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by
himself,



(7) Another encouragement, to push them onward because the hope of the inheritance is certain, if
we continue to the end, for God has not only promised it, but also promised it with an oath.
#BCV:Hebrews 6:14
<h3><verse=Hebrews 6:14>Hebrews 6:14</verse></h3>



Saying, Surely (e) blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee.



(e) I will heap many benefits on you.
#BCV:Hebrews 6:17
<h3><verse=Hebrews 6:17>Hebrews 6:17</verse></h3>



Wherein God, willing more (f) abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his
counsel, confirmed [it] by an oath:



(f) More than was needed, were it not for the wickedness of men who do not believe God, even
though he swears.
#BCV:Hebrews 6:19
<h3><verse=Hebrews 6:19>Hebrews 6:19</verse></h3>

#BCV:heb 6:19
<h3><verse=heb 6:19>heb 6:19</verse></h3>



that within the veil;



(8) He compares hope to an anchor because in the same way that an anchor when cast into the
bottom of the sea secures the whole ship, so hope also enters even into the very secret places of
heaven. He makes mention of the sanctuary, alluding to the old tabernacle and by this returns to the
comparison of the priesthood of Christ with the Levitical priesthood.
#BCV:Hebrews 6:20
<h3><verse=Hebrews 6:20>Hebrews 6:20</verse></h3>




(9) Whither the forerunner is for us entered, [even] Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the
order of Melchisedec.



(9) He repeats David's words, in which all those comparisons that he mentioned before are signified,
as he declares in all the next chapter.

<h2>Hebrews 7</h2>

#BCV:Hebrews 7:1
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:1>Hebrews 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=3218>For this (1) Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning
from the slaughter of the kings, and (a) blessed him;



(1) Declaring those words, "According to the order of Melchizedek" upon which the comparison of
the priesthood of Christ with the Levitical priesthood rests: first, Melchizedek himself is considered
to be the type of Christ and these are the points of that comparison. Melchizedek was a king and a
priest, as is Christ alone. He was a king of peace and righteousness as is Christ alone.



(a) With a solemn and priestly blessing.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:3
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:3>Hebrews 7:3</verse></h3>




(2) Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of
life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually.



(2) Another type: Melchizedek is set before us to be considered as one without beginning and
without ending, for neither his father, mother, ancestors, or his death are written of. Such a one is
indeed the Son of God, that is, an everlasting Priest: as he is God, begotten without mother, and
man, conceived without father.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:4
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:4>Hebrews 7:4</verse></h3>




(3) Now consider how great this man [was], unto whom even the patriarch Abraham gave the tenth
of the spoils.



(3) Another figure: Melchizedek in his priesthood was above Abraham for he took tithes from him,
and blessed him as a priest. Such a one indeed is Christ, on whom depends even Abraham's
sanctification and all the believers, and whom all men should worship and reverence as the author of
all.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:5
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:5>Hebrews 7:5</verse></h3>



And verily they that are of the sons of Levi, who receive the office of the priesthood, have a
commandment to take tithes of the people according to the law, that is, of their brethren, though
they (b) come out of the loins of Abraham:



(b) Were begotten by Abraham.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:7
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:7>Hebrews 7:7</verse></h3>

#BCV:heb 7:7
<h3><verse=heb 7:7>heb 7:7</verse></h3>




(c) He speaks of the public blessing which the priests used.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:9
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:9>Hebrews 7:9</verse></h3>




(4) And as I may so say, Levi also, who receiveth tithes, payed tithes in Abraham.



(4) A twofold amplification: The first, that Melchizedek took the tithes as one immortal (that is, in
respect that he is the figure of Christ, for his death is not mentioned, and David sets him forth as an
everlasting Priest) but the Levitical priests, took tithes as mortal men, for they succeed one another:
the second, that Levi himself, though yet in Abraham, was tithed by Melchizedek. Therefore the
priesthood of Melchizedek (that is, Christ's, who is pronounced to be an everlasting Priest according
to this order) is more excellent than the Levitical priesthood.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:11
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:11>Hebrews 7:11</verse></h3>




(5) If therefore (d) perfection were by the Levitical priesthood, (for under it the people received the
law,) what further need [was there] that another priest should rise after the order of Melchisedec,
and not be called after the order of Aaron?



(5) The third treatise of this Epistle, in which after he has proved Christ to be a King, Prophet and a
Priest, he now handles distinctly the condition and excellency of all these offices, showing that all
these were shadows, but in Christ they are true and perfect. He begins with the priesthood that the
former treatise ended with, that by this means all the parts of the debate may better hold together.
First of all he proves that the Levitical priesthood was imperfect because another priest is promised
later according to an other order, that is, of another rule and fashion.



(d) If the priesthood of Levi could have made any man perfect.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:12
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:12>Hebrews 7:12</verse></h3>




(6) For the priesthood being changed, there is made of necessity a change also of the (e) law.



(6) He shows how by the institution of the new priesthood, not only the imperfection of the
priesthood of Levi was declared, but also that it was changed for this: for these two cannot stand
together, because the first appointment of the tribe of Levi shut out the tribe of Judah and made it
inferior to Levi: and this latter passage places the priesthood in the tribe of Judah.



(e) Of the institution of Aaron.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:13
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:13>Hebrews 7:13</verse></h3>

<page=3220>For he of whom these things are spoken pertaineth to another tribe, of which no man (f) gave
attendance at the altar.



(f) Had anything to do with the altar.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:15
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:15>Hebrews 7:15</verse></h3>




(7) And it is yet far more evident: for that after the similitude of Melchisedec there ariseth another
priest,



(7) Lest any man object, the priesthood was indeed translated from Levi to Judah. Nonetheless the
same still remains, he both considers and explains those words of David "for ever, according to the
order of Melchizedek" by which also a different institution of priesthood is understood.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:16
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:16>Hebrews 7:16</verse></h3>




(8) Who is made, not after the (g) law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless
life.



(8) He proves the diversity and excellency of the institution of Melchizedek's priesthood, by this that
the priesthood of the law rested on an outward and bodily anointing: but the sacrifice of
Melchizedek is set out to be everlasting and more spiritual.



(g) Not after the ordination, which commands frail ad temporary things, as was done in Aaron's
consecration, and all of that whole priesthood.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:18
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:18>Hebrews 7:18</verse></h3>




(9) For there is verily a disannulling of the (h) commandment going before for the weakness and
unprofitableness thereof.



(9) Again, that no man object that the last priesthood was added to make a perfect one by joining
them both together, he proves that the first was made void by the later as unprofitable, by the nature
of them both. For how could those material and transitory things sanctify us, either by themselves,
or by being joined with another?



(h) The ceremonial law.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:20
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:20>Hebrews 7:20</verse></h3>




(10) And inasmuch as not without an oath [he was made priest]:



(10) Another argument, by which he proves that the priesthood of Christ is better than the
priesthood of Levi, because his was established with an oath, but theirs was not so.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:23
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:23>Hebrews 7:23</verse></h3>


<page=3221>(11) And they truly were many priests, because they were not suffered to continue by reason of
death:



(11) Another argument for the same purpose. The Levitical priests (as mortal men) could not be
everlasting, but Christ, as he is everlasting, so has he also an everlasting priesthood, making most
effectual intercession for them who come to God by him.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:24
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:24>Hebrews 7:24</verse></h3>



But this [man], because he continueth ever, hath an (i) unchangeable priesthood.



(i) Which cannot pass away.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:25
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:25>Hebrews 7:25</verse></h3>



Wherefore he is (k) able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he
ever liveth to make intercession for them.



(k) He is fit and sufficient.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:26
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:26>Hebrews 7:26</verse></h3>




(12) For such an high priest became us, [who is] holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and
made higher than the heavens;



(12) Another argument: There are required in an high priest innocency and perfect pureness, which
may separate him from sinners, for whom he offers. The Levitical high priests are not found to be
such, for they offer first for their own sins: but only Christ is such a one, and therefore the only true
High Priest.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:27
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:27>Hebrews 7:27</verse></h3>



Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for
the people's: (13) for (l) this he did (m) once, when he offered up himself.



(13) Another argument, which nonetheless he handles afterward: The Levitical priests offered
sacrifice after sacrifice, first for themselves, and then for the people. Christ offered not for himself,
but for others, not sacrifices, but himself, not repeatedly, but once. This should not seem strange, he
says, for they are weak, but this man is consecrated as an everlasting Priest, and that by an oath.



(l) That sacrifice which he offered.

<page=3222>(m) It was done so that it need not be repeated or offered again any more.
#BCV:Hebrews 7:28
<h3><verse=Hebrews 7:28>Hebrews 7:28</verse></h3>



For the law maketh men high priests which have infirmity; but the (n) word of the oath, (14) which



(o) was since the law, [maketh] the Son, who is consecrated for evermore.



(n) The commandment of God which was bound with an oath.



(14) Another argument taken by the time: Former things are taken away by the later.



(o) Exhibited.

<h2>Hebrews 8</h2>

#BCV:Hebrews 8:1
<h3><verse=Hebrews 8:1>Hebrews 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=3223>Now (1) of the things which we have spoken [this is] the sum: We have such an high priest, who is
set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in the heavens;



(1) He briefly repeats that to which all these things are to be referred, that is, that we have another
High Priest than those Levitical high priests, even such a one as sits at the right hand of the Most
High God in heaven.
#BCV:Hebrews 8:2
<h3><verse=Hebrews 8:2>Hebrews 8:2</verse></h3>




(2) A minister of the (a) sanctuary, (3) and of the (b) true tabernacle, which the Lord pitched, and
not man.



(2) They of Levi were high priests in an earthly sanctuary, but Christ is in the heavenly.



(a) Of heaven. (3) They of Levi exercised their priesthood in a frail tabernacle, but Christ bears
about with him another tabernacle, that is, his body, which God himself made everlasting, as shall
later be declared in (<bcv=Heb 9:11>Heb 9:11</bcv>).



(b) Of his body.
#BCV:Hebrews 8:3
<h3><verse=Hebrews 8:3>Hebrews 8:3</verse></h3>




(4) For every high priest is ordained to offer gifts and sacrifices: wherefore [it is] of necessity that
this man have somewhat also to offer.



(4) He brings a reason why it must be that Christ should have a body (which he calls a tabernacle
which the Lord built, and not man) that is, that he might have that to offer: for otherwise he could
not be an High Priest. The body is both the tabernacle and the sacrifice.
#BCV:Hebrews 8:4
<h3><verse=Hebrews 8:4>Hebrews 8:4</verse></h3>




(5) For if he were on earth, he should not be a priest, seeing that there are priests that offer gifts
according to the law:



(5) He gives a reason why he said that our High Priest is in the heavenly sanctuary, and not in the
earthly: because, says he, if he were now on the earth, he could not minister in the earthly sanctuary,
seeing there are still Levitical priests who are appointed for him, that is to say, to be patterns of that
perfect example. To what purpose should the patterns serve, when the true and original example is
present?
#BCV:Hebrews 8:6
<h3><verse=Hebrews 8:6>Hebrews 8:6</verse></h3>

#BCV:heb 8:6
<h3><verse=heb 8:6>heb 8:6</verse></h3>



better covenant, which was established upon better promises.



(6) He enters into the comparison of the old and transitory Testament or covenant, being but for a
time, of which the Levitical priests were mediators, with the new, the everlasting Mediator of which
is Christ, to show that this is not only better than that in all respects, but also that that was made
void by this.
#BCV:Hebrews 8:7
<h3><verse=Hebrews 8:7>Hebrews 8:7</verse></h3>




(7) For if that first [covenant] had been faultless, then should no place have been sought for the
second.



(7) He proves by the testimony of Jeremiah that there is a second Testament or covenant, and
therefore that the first was not perfect.
#BCV:Hebrews 8:8
<h3><verse=Hebrews 8:8>Hebrews 8:8</verse></h3>



For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold, the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new
covenant with the (c) house of Israel and with the house of Judah:



(c) He calls it a house, as it were one family of the whole kingdom: for while the kingdom of David
was divided into two sections, the Prophet would have us understand that through the new
Testament they shall be joined together again in one.
#BCV:Hebrews 8:13
<h3><verse=Hebrews 8:13>Hebrews 8:13</verse></h3>




(8) In that he saith, A new [covenant], he hath made the first old. Now that which decayeth and
waxeth old [is] ready to vanish away.



(8) The conclusion: Therefore by the later and the new, the first and old is taken away, for it could
not be called new, if it did not differ from the old. Again, that same is at length taken away, which is
subject to corruption, and therefore imperfect.

<h2>Hebrews 9</h2>

#BCV:Hebrews 9:1
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:1>Hebrews 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=3225>Then verily (1) the first [covenant] had also ordinances of divine service, and a (a) worldly sanctuary.



(1) A division of the first tabernacle which he calls worldly, that is to say, transitory, and earthly, into
two parts, that is, into the holy places, and the Holiest of all.



(a) An earthy and a fleeting.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:3
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:3>Hebrews 9:3</verse></h3>



And after (b) the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the (c) Holiest of all;



(b) He calls it the second veil, not because there were two veils, but because it was behind the
sanctuary or the first tabernacle.



(c) The holiest sanctuary.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:5
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:5>Hebrews 9:5</verse></h3>



And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the (d) mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak
particularly.



(d) The Hebrews call the cover of the ark of the covenant the mercy seat, which both the Greeks
and we do also.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:6
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:6>Hebrews 9:6</verse></h3>




(2) Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle,
accomplishing the service [of God].



(2) Now he comes to the sacrifices which he divides into those daily sacrifices and that yearly and
solemn sacrifice with which the high priest only but once every year entering into the Holiest of all
with blood, offered for himself and the people.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:7
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:7>Hebrews 9:7</verse></h3>



But into the second [went] the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he
offered for himself, and [for] the (e) errors of the people:



(e) For the sins, see (<bcv=Heb 5:2>Heb 5:2</bcv>).
#BCV:Hebrews 9:8
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:8>Hebrews 9:8</verse></h3>

#BCV:heb 9:8
<h3><verse=heb 9:8>heb 9:8</verse></h3>



while as the first tabernacle was yet standing:



(3) Of that yearly rite and the ceremony, he gathers that the way into heaven was not opened by
such sacrifices, which was shadowed by the Holiest of all. For why did only the high priest enter in,
excluding all others, to offer sacrifices there both for himself and for others, and after, shut the
Holiest of all again?
#BCV:Hebrews 9:9
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:9>Hebrews 9:9</verse></h3>




(4) Which [was] a figure (f) for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices,
that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience;



(4) An objection: If the way to heaven was not opened by those sacrifices (that is to say, if the
worshippers were not purged by them) why then were those ceremonies used? That is, that men
might be called back to that spiritual example, that is to say, to Christ who would correct all those
things at his coming.



(f) For that time that that figure had to last.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:10
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:10>Hebrews 9:10</verse></h3>




(5) [Which stood] only in meats and drinks, and divers washings, and carnal ordinances, (g) imposed
[on them] until the time of reformation.



(5) Another reason why they could not clear the conscience of the worshipper is because they were
outward and carnal or material things.



(g) For they were as you would say, a burden, from which Christ delivered us.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:11
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:11>Hebrews 9:11</verse></h3>




(6) But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, (7) by a (h) greater and more
perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building;



(6) Now he enters into the declaration of the types, and first of all comparing the Levitical high
priest with Christ, (that is to say, the figure with the thing itself) he attributes to Christ the
administration of good things to come, that is, everlasting, which those carnal things had respect to.



(7) Another comparison of the first corrupt tabernacle with the latter, (that is to say, with the human
nature of Christ) which is the true incorruptible temple of God, into which the Son of God entered,
as the Levitical high priests into the other which was frail and transitory.



(h) By a more excellent and better.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:12
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:12>Hebrews 9:12</verse></h3>


<page=3227>(8) Neither by the blood of (i) goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the
holy place, having obtained eternal redemption [for us].



(8) Another comparison of the blood of the sacrifices with Christ, the Levitical high priests entering
by their holy places into the sanctuary, offered corruptible blood for one year only: but Christ
entering into that holy body of his, entered by it into heaven itself, offering his own most pure blood
for an everlasting redemption: for Christ is both the High Priest, Tabernacle, Sacrifices and
Offerings themselves, indeed all those both truly and for ever.



(i) For in this yearly sacrifice of reconciliation, there were two kinds of sacrifices, the one a goat, the
other a heifer, or calf.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:13
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:13>Hebrews 9:13</verse></h3>




(9) For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean,
sanctifieth to the (k) purifying of the flesh:



(9) If the outward sprinkling of blood and ashes of beasts was a true and effectual sign of purifying
and cleansing, how much more shall the thing itself and the truth being present which in times past
was shadowed by those external sacraments do it? That is to say, his blood, which is man's blood and
also the blood of the Son of God, and therefore has an everlasting power of purifying and cleansing.



(k) He considers the signs separately, being separate from the thing itself.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:14
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:14>Hebrews 9:14</verse></h3>



How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without
spot to God, purge your conscience from (l) dead works to serve the living God?



(l) From sins which proceed from death, and bring forth nothing but death.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:15
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:15>Hebrews 9:15</verse></h3>




(10) And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the
redemption of the transgressions [that were] under the first testament, they which are called might
receive the promise of eternal inheritance.



(10) The conclusion of the former argument: therefore seeing the blood of beasts did not purge sins,
the new Testament which was promised before, to which those outward things had respect, is now
indeed established by the power by which all transgressions might be taken away, and heaven indeed
opened to us. It follows that Christ shed his blood also for the fathers, for he was foreshadowed by
these old ceremonies, otherwise, unless they served to represent him, they were not at all profitable.
<page=3228>Therefore this Testament is called the latter, not concerning the power of it, (that is to say, remission
of sins) but in respect of that time in which the thing itself was finished, that is to say, in which
Christ was exhibited to the world, and fulfilled all things necessary for our salvation.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:16
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:16>Hebrews 9:16</verse></h3>




(11) For where a testament [is], there must also of necessity be the death of the testator.



(11) A reason why the testament must be established by the death of the Mediator, because this
testament has the condition of a testament or gift, which is made effective by death, and therefore
that it might be effective, it must be that he that made the Testament, should die.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:18
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:18>Hebrews 9:18</verse></h3>




(12) Whereupon neither the first [testament] was dedicated without blood.



(12) There must be a proportion between those things which purify and those which are purified:
Under the law all those figures were earthly, the tabernacle, the book, the vessels, the sacrifices,
although they were the signs of heavenly things. Therefore it was required that all those should be
purified with some matter and ceremony of the same nature, that is, with the blood of beasts, with
water, wool, hyssop. But under Christ all things are heavenly, a heavenly tabernacle, heavenly sacrifice,
heavenly people, heavenly doctrine, and heaven itself is set open before us for an eternal home.
Therefore all these things are sanctified in a similar way, that is, with the everlasting offering of the
quickening blood of Christ.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:19
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:19>Hebrews 9:19</verse></h3>



For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people (m) according to the law, he took the
blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and (n) sprinkled both the
book, and all the people,



(m) As the Lord had commanded.



(n) He used to sprinkle.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:23
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:23>Hebrews 9:23</verse></h3>



[It was] therefore necessary that the (o) patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with
these; but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these.



(o) The counterparts of heavenly things were earthly, and therefore they were to be set forth with
earthly things, as with the blood of beasts, wool and hyssop. But under Christ all things are heavenly,
and therefore they could not be sanctified with the offering of his living blood.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:24
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:24>Hebrews 9:24</verse></h3>


<page=3229>(13) For Christ is not entered into the holy places made with hands, [which are] the figures of the
true; but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us:



(13) Another twofold comparison: the Levitical high priest entered into the sanctuary, which was
made indeed by the commandment of God, but yet with men's hands, that it might be a pattern of
another more excellent, that is, of the heavenly place, but Christ entered into heaven itself. Again he
appeared before the ark, but Christ before God the Father himself.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:25
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:25>Hebrews 9:25</verse></h3>




(14) Nor yet that he should offer himself often, as the high priest entereth into the holy place every
year with blood of others;



(14) Another double comparison: the Levitical high priest offered other blood, but Christ offered his
own: he every year once repeated his offering: Christ offering himself but once, abolished sin
altogether, both of the former ages and of the ages to come.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:26
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:26>Hebrews 9:26</verse></h3>




(15) For then must he often have suffered since the foundation of the world: but now once in the (p)
end of the world hath he appeared to put away (q) sin by the sacrifice of himself.



(15) An argument to prove that Christ's offering should not be repeated: seeing that sins were to be
purged from the beginning of the world, and it is proved that sins cannot be purged, but by the
blood of Christ: he would have needed to have died repeatedly, since the beginning of the world.
But a man can die only once: therefore Christ's sacrifice which was once done in the later days,
neither could nor can be repeated. Seeing that it is so, surely the power of it extends both to sins
that were before, and to sins that are after his coming.



(p) In the later days.



(q) That whole root of sin.
#BCV:Hebrews 9:27
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:27>Hebrews 9:27</verse></h3>



And as it is appointed unto men (r) once to die, but after this the judgment:



(r) He speaks of the natural state and condition of man: For though Lazarus and certain others died
twice, that was no usual thing, but extraordinary: and as for them that shall be changed, their
changing is a kind of death. See <bcv=1Co 15:51>Co1 15:51</bcv>
#BCV:Hebrews 9:28
<h3><verse=Hebrews 9:28>Hebrews 9:28</verse></h3>

#BCV:heb 9:28
<h3><verse=heb 9:28>heb 9:28</verse></h3>



he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.



(s) Thus the general promise is restrained to the elect only: and we have to seek the testimony of our
election, not in the secret counsel of God, but in the effects that our faith works, and so we must
climb up from the lowest step to the highest, there to find such comfort as is most certain, and shall
never be moved.



(16) Shortly by the way he sets Christ as Judge, partly to terrify those who are not trusting in the
only sacrifice of Christ once made, and partly to keep the faithful in their duty, so that they will not
go back.

<h2>Hebrews 10</h2>

#BCV:Hebrews 10:1
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:1>Hebrews 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=3231>For (1) the law having a shadow of good things to (a) come, [and] not the very image of the things,
can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers
thereunto perfect.



(1) He prevents a private objection. Why then were those sacrifices offered? The apostle answers,
first concerning the yearly sacrifice which was the solemnest of all, in which (he says) there was
made every year a remembrance again of all former sins. Therefore that sacrifice had no power to
sanctify: for to what purpose should those sins which are purged be repeated again, and why should
new sins come to be repeated every year, if those sacrifices abolished sin?



(a) Of things which are everlasting, which were promised to the fathers, and exhibited in Christ.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:5
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:5>Hebrews 10:5</verse></h3>




(2) Wherefore when he (b) cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldest not,
but a (c) body hast thou prepared me:



(2) A conclusion following those things that went before, and encompassing also the other sacrifices.
Seeing that the sacrifices of the law could not do it, therefore Christ speaking of himself as of our
High Priest manifested in the flesh, witnesses plainly that God rests not in the sacrifices, but in the
obedience of his Son our High Priest, in whose obedience he offered up himself once to his Father
for us.



(b) The Son of God is said to come into the world, when he was made man.



(c) It is word for word in the Hebrew text, "You have pierced my ears through" that is, "you have
made me obedient and willing to hear".
#BCV:Hebrews 10:9
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:9>Hebrews 10:9</verse></h3>



Then said he, Lo, I come to do thy will, O God. He taketh away the (d) first, that he may establish
the second.



(d) That is, the sacrifices, to establish the second, that is, the will of God.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:11
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:11>Hebrews 10:11</verse></h3>




(3) And every priest standeth (e) daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which
can never take away sins:

<page=3232>(3) A conclusion, with the other part of the comparison: The Levitical high priest repeats the same
sacrifices daily in his sanctuary: upon which it follows that neither those sacrifices, nor those
offerings, nor those high priests could take away sins. But Christ having offered one sacrifice once
for the sins of all men, and having sanctified his own for ever, sits at the right hand of the Father,
having all power in his hands.



(e) At the altar.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:13
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:13>Hebrews 10:13</verse></h3>




(4) From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool.



(4) He prevents a private objection, that is, that yet nonetheless we are subject to sin and death, to
which the apostle answers, that the full effect of Christ's power has not yet shown itself, but shall
eventually appear when he will at once put to flight all his enemies, with whom we still struggle.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:15
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:15>Hebrews 10:15</verse></h3>




(5) [Whereof] the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before,



(5) Although there remains in us relics of sin, yet the work of our sanctification which is to be
perfected, hangs on the same sacrifice which never shall be repeated: and that the apostle proves by
referring again to the testimony of Jeremiah, thus: Sin is taken away by the new testament, seeing the
Lord says that it shall come to pass, that according to the form of it, he will no more remember our
sins: Therefore we need now no purging sacrifice to take away that which is already taken away, but
we must rather take pains, that we may now through faith be partakers of that sacrifice.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:17
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:17>Hebrews 10:17</verse></h3>



And their sins and iniquities will I remember (f) no more.



(f) Why then, where is the fire of purgatory, and that popish distinction of the fault, and the
punishment?
#BCV:Hebrews 10:18
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:18>Hebrews 10:18</verse></h3>



Now where remission of these [is, there is] no more offering for (g) sin.



(g) He said well, for sin: for there remains another offering, that is, of thanksgiving.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:19
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:19>Hebrews 10:19</verse></h3>




(6) Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,

<page=3233>(6) The sum of the former treatise: We are not shut out from the holy place, as the fathers were, but
we have an entrance into the true holy place (that is, into heaven) seeing that we are purged with the
blood, not of beasts, but of Jesus. Neither as in times past, does the High Priest shut us out by
setting the veil against us, but through the veil, which is his flesh, he has brought us into heaven
itself, so that we have now truly an High Priest who is over the house of God.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:20
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:20>Hebrews 10:20</verse></h3>



By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his (h)
flesh;



(h) So Christ's flesh shows us the Godhead as if it were under a veil, For otherwise we could not
stand the brightness of it.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:22
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:22>Hebrews 10:22</verse></h3>




(7) Let us draw near with a (i) true heart in full assurance of faith, having our (k) hearts sprinkled
from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with (l) pure water.



(7) A most grave exhortation, in which he shows how the sacrifice of Christ may be applied to us:
that is, by faith which also he describes by the consequence, that is, by sanctification of the Spirit,
which causes us to hope in God, and to procure by all means possible one another's salvation,
through the love that is in us one towards another.



(i) With no double and counterfeit heart, but with such a heart as is truly and indeed given to God.



(k) This is it which the Lord says, Be ye holy, for I am holy.



(l) With the grace of the Holy Spirit.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:25
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:25>Hebrews 10:25</verse></h3>



Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some [is]; but exhorting [one
another]: (8) and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.



(8) Having mentioned the last coming of Christ, he stirs up the godly to the meditation of a holy life,
and cites the faithless fallers from God to the fearful judgment seat of the Judge, because they
wickedly rejected him in whom only salvation consists.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:26
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:26>Hebrews 10:26</verse></h3>



For if we sin (m) wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no
more sacrifice for sins,



(m) Without any cause or occasion, or show of occasion.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:27
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:27>Hebrews 10:27</verse></h3>

<page=3234>But a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the (n)
adversaries.



(n) For it is another matter to sin through the frailty of man's nature, and another thing to proclaim
war on God as on an enemy.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:28
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:28>Hebrews 10:28</verse></h3>




(9) He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses:



(9) If the breach of the law of Moses was punished by death, how much more worthy of death is it
to fall away from Christ?
#BCV:Hebrews 10:30
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:30>Hebrews 10:30</verse></h3>




(10) For we know him that hath said, Vengeance [belongeth] unto me, I will recompense, saith the
Lord. And again, The Lord shall (o) judge his people.



(10) The reason of all these things is, because God is a revenger of those who despise him:
otherwise he could not rightly govern his Church. Now there is nothing more horrible then the
wrath of the living God.



(o) Rule or govern.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:32
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:32>Hebrews 10:32</verse></h3>




(11) But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, ye endured a great
fight of afflictions;



(11) As he terrified the fallers away from God, so does he now comfort them that are constant and
stand firm, setting before them the success of their former fights, so stirring them up to a sure hope
of a full and ready victory.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:33
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:33>Hebrews 10:33</verse></h3>



Partly, whilst ye were made a (p) gazingstock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, whilst ye
became (q) companions of them that were so used.



(p) You were brought forth to be shamed.



(q) In taking their miseries, to be your miseries.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:34
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:34>Hebrews 10:34</verse></h3>

#BCV:heb 10:34
<h3><verse=heb 10:34>heb 10:34</verse></h3>



yourselves that ye have in heaven a better and an enduring (r) substance.



(r) Goods and riches.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:37
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:37>Hebrews 10:37</verse></h3>



For yet a (s) little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.



(s) He will come within this very little while.
#BCV:Hebrews 10:38
<h3><verse=Hebrews 10:38>Hebrews 10:38</verse></h3>




(12) Now the just shall live by faith: but if [any man] draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in
him.



(12) He commends the excellency of a sure faith by the effect, because it is the only way to life,
which sentence he sets forth and amplifies by contrast.

<h2>Hebrews 11</h2>

#BCV:Hebrews 11:1
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:1>Hebrews 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=3236>Now (1) faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.



(1) An excellent description of faith by the effects, because it represents things which are but yet in
hope, and sets as it were before our eyes things that are invisible.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:2
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:2>Hebrews 11:2</verse></h3>




(2) For by it the (a) elders obtained a good report.



(2) He shows that the fathers ought to be accounted of by this virtue.



(a) That is, those fathers from whom we came: and whose authority and example ought to move us
very much.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:3
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:3>Hebrews 11:3</verse></h3>




(3) Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things
which are (b) seen were not made of things which do appear.



(3) He shows the property of faith, by setting before us most cautious examples of those who from
the beginning of the world excelled in the Church.



(b) So that the world which we see, was not made from any matter that appeared or was before, but
from nothing.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:4
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:4>Hebrews 11:4</verse></h3>




(4) By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained
witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.



(4) Abel.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:5
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:5>Hebrews 11:5</verse></h3>




(5) By faith Enoch was translated that he should not (c) see death; and was not found, because God
had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.



(5) Enoch.



(c) That he should not die.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:6
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:6>Hebrews 11:6</verse></h3>

#BCV:heb 11:6
<h3><verse=heb 11:6>heb 11:6</verse></h3>



and [that] he is a (d) rewarder of them that diligently seek him.



(d) This reward is not referred to our merits, but to the free promise, as Paul teaches in Abraham the
father of all the faithful, (<bcv=Rom 4:4>Rom 4:4</bcv>).
#BCV:Hebrews 11:7
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:7>Hebrews 11:7</verse></h3>




(6) By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark
to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the
righteousness which is by faith.



(6) Noah.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:8
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:8>Hebrews 11:8</verse></h3>




(7) By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an
inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.



(7) Abraham and Sarah.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:10
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:10>Hebrews 11:10</verse></h3>



For he looked for a city which hath (e) foundations, whose builder and maker [is] God.



(e) This foundation is contrasted with their tabernacle.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:12
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:12>Hebrews 11:12</verse></h3>



Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as (f) dead, [so many] as the stars of the sky in
multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable.



(f) As unlikely to bear children, as if he had been dead.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:13
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:13>Hebrews 11:13</verse></h3>



These all died in (g) faith, not having received the (h) promises, but having seen them afar off, and
were persuaded of [them], and (i) embraced [them], and confessed that they were strangers and
pilgrims on the earth.



(g) In faith, which they had while they lived, and followed, them even to their grave.



(h) This is the figure metonymy, for the things promised.

<page=3238>(i) For the patriarchs were given to profess their religion by building an altar and calling on the name
of the Lord when they received the promises.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:17
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:17>Hebrews 11:17</verse></h3>



By faith Abraham, when he was (k) tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the (l) promises
offered up his only begotten [son],



(k) Tried by the Lord.



(l) Although the promises of life were made in that only begotten son Isaac, yet he appointed him to
die; and so against hope he believed in hope.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:19
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:19>Hebrews 11:19</verse></h3>



Accounting that God [was] able to raise [him] up, even from the dead; from (m) whence also he
received him in (n) a figure.



(m) From which death.



(n) For there was not the true and very death of Isaac, but as it were the death, by means of which
he seemed also to have risen again.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:20
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:20>Hebrews 11:20</verse></h3>




(8) By faith Isaac blessed Jacob and Esau concerning things to come.



(8) Isaac.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:21
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:21>Hebrews 11:21</verse></h3>




(9) By faith Jacob, when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, [leaning]
upon the top of his staff.



(9) Jacob.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:22
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:22>Hebrews 11:22</verse></h3>




(10) By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and
gave commandment concerning his bones.



(10) Joseph.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:23
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:23>Hebrews 11:23</verse></h3>


<page=3239>(11) By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw [he
was] a proper child; and they were not (o) afraid of the king's commandment.



(11) Moses.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:25
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:25>Hebrews 11:25</verse></h3>



Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the (p) pleasures of sin
for a season;



(p) Such pleasures as he could not enjoy, unless he provoked God's wrath against him.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:29
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:29>Hebrews 11:29</verse></h3>




(12) By faith they passed through the Red sea as by dry [land]: which the Egyptians assaying to do
were drowned.



(12) The Red Sea.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:30
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:30>Hebrews 11:30</verse></h3>




(13) By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days.



(13) Jericho.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:31
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:31>Hebrews 11:31</verse></h3>




(14) By faith the (q) harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received
the (r) spies with peace.



(14) Rahab.



(q) A notable example of God's goodness.



(r) Courteously and friendly, so that not only did she not hurt them, but also kept them safe.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:32
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:32>Hebrews 11:32</verse></h3>




(15) And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and [of] Barak, and [of]
Samson, and [of] Jephthae; [of] David also, and Samuel, and [of] the prophets:



(15) Gideon, Barak and other judges and prophets.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:33
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:33>Hebrews 11:33</verse></h3>

<page=3240>Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained (s) promises, stopped the
mouths of lions,



(s) The fruit of the promises.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:35
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:35>Hebrews 11:35</verse></h3>




(t) Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were (u) tortured, not accepting
deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection:



(t) He seems to mean the story of that woman of Sarepta, whose son Elijah raised again from the
dead, and the Shunammite, whose son Elisha restored to his mother.



(u) He means that perfection which Antiochus wrought.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:37
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:37>Hebrews 11:37</verse></h3>



They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered
about in (x) sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented;



(x) In vile and rough clothing, so were the saints brought to extreme poverty, and constrained to live
like beasts in the wilderness.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:39
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:39>Hebrews 11:39</verse></h3>




(16) And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received (y) not the promise:



(16) An amplification taken from the circumstance of the time: their faith is so much the more to be
marvelled at, by how much the promises of things to come were more dark, yet at length were
indeed exhibited to us, so that their faith and ours is as one, as is also their consecration and ours.



(y) But saw Christ afar off.
#BCV:Hebrews 11:40
<h3><verse=Hebrews 11:40>Hebrews 11:40</verse></h3>



God having provided some better thing for us, that they (z) without us should not be made perfect.



(z) For their salvation depended on Christ, who was exhibited in our days.

<h2>Hebrews 12</h2>

#BCV:Hebrews 12:1
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:1>Hebrews 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=3241>Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, (1) let us lay aside
every weight, and the sin which (a) doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that
is set before us,



(1) An applying of the former examples, by which we ought to be stirred up to run the whole race,
casting away all hindrances and impediments.



(a) For sin besieges us on all sides, so that we cannot escape.
#BCV:Hebrews 12:2
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:2>Hebrews 12:2</verse></h3>




(2) (b) Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of [our] faith; who for the (c) joy that was set
before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne
of God.



(2) He sets before us, as the mark of this race, Jesus himself our captain, who willingly overcame all
the roughness of the same way.



(b) As it were upon the mark of our faith.



(c) While he had every type of blessedness in his hand and power, yet suffered willingly the shame
of the cross.
#BCV:Hebrews 12:3
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:3>Hebrews 12:3</verse></h3>




(3) For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied
and faint in your minds.



(3) An amplification, taken from the circumstance of the person and the things themselves, which
he compares between themselves: for how great is Jesus in comparison of us, and how far more
grievous things did he suffer than we?
#BCV:Hebrews 12:4
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:4>Hebrews 12:4</verse></h3>




(4) Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.



(4) He takes an argument from the profit which comes to us by God's chastisements, unless we are
at fault. First of all because sin, or that rebellious wickedness of our flesh, is by this means tamed.
#BCV:Hebrews 12:5
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:5>Hebrews 12:5</verse></h3>


<page=3242>(5) And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son,
despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him:



(5) Secondly, because they are testimonies of his fatherly good will towards us, in that they show
themselves to be illegitimate, if they cannot abide to be chastened by God.
#BCV:Hebrews 12:9
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:9>Hebrews 12:9</verse></h3>




(6) Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected [us], and we gave [them]
reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?



(6) Thirdly, if all men yield this right to fathers, to whom next after God we owe this life, that they
may rightfully correct their children, shall we not be much more subject to our Father, who is the
author of spiritual and everlasting life?
#BCV:Hebrews 12:10
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:10>Hebrews 12:10</verse></h3>




(7) For they verily for a few days chastened [us] after their own pleasure; but he for [our] profit, that
[we] might be partakers of his holiness.



(7) An amplification of the same argument: Those fathers have corrected us after their fancy, for
some frail and temporary good: but God chastens and instructs us for our singular good to make us
partakers of his holiness: which although our senses do not presently perceive it, yet the end of the
matter proves it.
#BCV:Hebrews 12:12
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:12>Hebrews 12:12</verse></h3>




(8) Wherefore lift up the hands which (d) hang down, and the feeble knees;



(8) The conclusion: we must go forward courageously and keep always a right course and (as far
forth as we may) without any staggering or stumbling.



(d) The description of a man that is out of heart and completely discouraged.
#BCV:Hebrews 12:13
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:13>Hebrews 12:13</verse></h3>



And make (e) straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it
rather be healed.



(e) Keep a right course, and so, that you show examples of good life for others to follow.
#BCV:Hebrews 12:14
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:14>Hebrews 12:14</verse></h3>




(9) Follow peace with all [men], and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:

<page=3243>(9) We must live in peace and holiness with all men.
#BCV:Hebrews 12:15
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:15>Hebrews 12:15</verse></h3>




(10) Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any (f) root of bitterness springing
up trouble [you], and thereby many be defiled;



(10) We must study to edify one another both in doctrine and example of life.



(f) That no heresy, or backsliding be an offence.
#BCV:Hebrews 12:16
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:16>Hebrews 12:16</verse></h3>




(11) Lest there [be] any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his
birthright.



(11) We must shun immorality, and a profane mind, that is, such a mind as does not give God his
due honour, which wickedness, how severely God will at length punish, the horrible example of
Esau teaches us.
#BCV:Hebrews 12:17
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:17>Hebrews 12:17</verse></h3>



For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he
found no (g) place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.



(g) There was no room left for his repentance: and it appears by the effects, what his repentance
really was, for when he left his father's presence, he threatened to kill his brother.
#BCV:Hebrews 12:18
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:18>Hebrews 12:18</verse></h3>




(12) For ye are not come unto the mount that might be (h) touched, and that burned with fire, nor
unto blackness, and darkness, and tempest,



(12) Now he applies the same exhortation to the prophetic and kingly office of Christ compared
with Moses, after this sort. If the majesty of the law was so great, how great do you think the glory
of Christ and the gospel is? This comparison he declares also particularly.



(h) Which might be touched with hands, which was of a gross and earthly matter.
#BCV:Hebrews 12:21
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:21>Hebrews 12:21</verse></h3>



And so terrible was the (i) sight, [that] Moses said, I exceedingly fear and quake:)



(i) The shape and form which he saw, which was no counterfeit and forged shape, but a true one.
#BCV:Hebrews 12:23
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:23>Hebrews 12:23</verse></h3>

<page=3244>To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the
Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made (k) perfect,



(k) So he calls them that are taken up to heaven, although one part of them sleeps in the earth.
#BCV:Hebrews 12:25
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:25>Hebrews 12:25</verse></h3>




(13) See that ye refuse not him that speaketh. For if they escaped not who refused him that spake on
earth, much more [shall not] we [escape], if we turn away from him that [speaketh] from heaven:



(13) The applying of the former comparison: If it were not lawful to condemn his word which was
spoken on the earth, how much less his voice which is from heaven?
#BCV:Hebrews 12:26
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:26>Hebrews 12:26</verse></h3>




(14) Whose voice then shook the earth: but now he hath promised, saying, (l) Yet once more I shake
not the earth only, but also heaven.



(14) He compares the steadfast majesty of the gospel, with which the whole world was shaken, and
even the very frame of heaven was astonished, with the small and vanishing sound of the
governance by the law.



(l) It appears evidently in this that the prophet speaks of the calling of the Gentiles, that these words
must refer to the kingdom of Christ.
#BCV:Hebrews 12:28
<h3><verse=Hebrews 12:28>Hebrews 12:28</verse></h3>




(15) Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may
serve God acceptably with (m) reverence and godly (n) fear:



(15) A general exhortation to live reverently and religiously under the most happy subjection of so
mighty a King, who as he blesses his most mightily, so does he most severely revenge the rebellious.
This is the sum of a Christian life, respecting the first table of the law.



(m) By reverence is meant that honest modesty which keeps them in their duties.



(n) Religious and godly fear.

<h2>Hebrews 13</h2>

#BCV:Hebrews 13:1
<h3><verse=Hebrews 13:1>Hebrews 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=3245>Let (1) brotherly love continue.



(1) He comes to the second table of the law, the sum of which is charity, especially toward strangers
and such as are afflicted.
#BCV:Hebrews 13:3
<h3><verse=Hebrews 13:3>Hebrews 13:3</verse></h3>



Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; [and] them which suffer adversity, as (a)
being yourselves also in the body.



(a) Be so touched, as if their misery were yours.
#BCV:Hebrews 13:4
<h3><verse=Hebrews 13:4>Hebrews 13:4</verse></h3>




(2) Marriage [is] honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will

<h1>judge.</h1>




(2) He commends chaste matrimony in all sorts of men, and threatens utter destruction from God
against whoremongers and adulterers.
#BCV:Hebrews 13:5
<h3><verse=Hebrews 13:5>Hebrews 13:5</verse></h3>




(3) [Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have:
for (b) he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.



(3) Covetousness is condemned, against which is set a contented mind with that which the Lord has
given.



(b) Even the Lord himself.
#BCV:Hebrews 13:6
<h3><verse=Hebrews 13:6>Hebrews 13:6</verse></h3>



So that we may boldly say, The Lord [is] my helper, and I will not fear what (c) man shall do unto me.



(c) He contrasts man with God.
#BCV:Hebrews 13:7
<h3><verse=Hebrews 13:7>Hebrews 13:7</verse></h3>




(4) Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God:
whose faith follow, considering the end of [their] conversation.

<page=3246>(4) We have to set before us the examples of valiant captains, whom we ought diligently to follow.
#BCV:Hebrews 13:8
<h3><verse=Hebrews 13:8>Hebrews 13:8</verse></h3>




(5) Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.



(5) He repeats the sum of the doctrine, that is, the only ground of all precepts of conduct, and that
is this: That we ought to quiet and content ourselves in Christ only: for there has never been any
man saved without the knowledge of him, neither is there today, nor shall there be ever.
#BCV:Hebrews 13:9
<h3><verse=Hebrews 13:9>Hebrews 13:9</verse></h3>



Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines. (6) For [it is] a good thing that the heart be
established with grace; not with (d) meats, which have not profited them that have been (e) occupied
therein.



(6) He speaks to those who mixed an external worship and especially the difference of meats with
the gospel which he clearly condemns as repugnant to the benefit of Christ.



(d) By this one form which concerns the difference of clean and unclean meat, we have to
understand all the ceremonial worship.



(e) Who observed the difference of them superstitiously.
#BCV:Hebrews 13:10
<h3><verse=Hebrews 13:10>Hebrews 13:10</verse></h3>




(7) We have an (f) altar, whereof they have no right to eat which (g) serve the tabernacle.



(7) He refutes their error by an apt and fit comparison. They who in times past served the
Tabernacle, did not eat of the sacrifices whose blood was brought for sin into the holy place by the
high priest. Moreover these sacrifices represented Christ our offering. Therefore they cannot be
partakers of him if they serve the tabernacle, that is, stand in the service of the law: but let us not be
ashamed to follow him out of Jerusalem, from which he was cast out and suffered for in this also
Christ, who is the truth, answers that type in that he suffered outside the gate.



(f) By the altar, he means the offerings.



(g) Of which they cannot be partakers, who stubbornly retain the rites of the law.
#BCV:Hebrews 13:13
<h3><verse=Hebrews 13:13>Hebrews 13:13</verse></h3>




(8) Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach.



(8) He goes on further in this comparison, and shows that this also signified to us, that the godly
followers of Christ must go out of the world bearing his cross.
#BCV:Hebrews 13:15
<h3><verse=Hebrews 13:15>Hebrews 13:15</verse></h3>


<page=3247>(9) By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of [our]
lips giving thanks to his name.



(9) Now that those physical sacrifices are taken away, he teaches us that the true sacrifices of
confession remain, which consist partly in giving thanks, and partly in liberality, with which sacrifices
indeed God is now delighted.
#BCV:Hebrews 13:17
<h3><verse=Hebrews 13:17>Hebrews 13:17</verse></h3>




(10) Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as
they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that [is] unprofitable
for you.



(10) We must obey the warnings and admonitions of our ministers and elders, who watch for the
salvation of the souls that are committed to them.
#BCV:Hebrews 13:18
<h3><verse=Hebrews 13:18>Hebrews 13:18</verse></h3>




(11) Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly.



(11) The last part of this epistle, in which he commends his ministry to the Hebrews, and wishes
them steadfastness and increase of graces from the Lord: and excuses himself in that he has used
but few words to comfort them having spent the epistle in disputing: and salutes certain brethren in
a familiar and friendly manner.
#BCV:Hebrews 13:21
<h3><verse=Hebrews 13:21>Hebrews 13:21</verse></h3>



Make you (h) perfect in every good work to do his will, (i) working in you that which is wellpleasing
in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom [be] glory for ever and ever. Amen.



(h) Make you fit or suitable.



(i) From this comes that saying of the fathers, that God crowns his work in us.

<h1>James</h1>


<h2>James 1</h2>

#BCV:James 1:1
<h3><verse=James 1:1>James 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=3249>James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ, to the (a) twelve tribes which are (b) scattered
abroad, greeting.



(a) That is, written to no one man, city, or country, but to all the Jews generally, being now dispersed.



(b) To all the believing Jews, whatever tribe they are from, dispersed throughout the whole world.
#BCV:James 1:2
<h3><verse=James 1:2>James 1:2</verse></h3>




(1) My brethren, (c) count it all joy (2) when ye fall into divers temptations;



(1) The first place or part concerning comfort in afflictions, in which we should not be cast down
and be faint hearted, but rather rejoice and be glad.



(c) Seeing their condition was miserable because of the scattering abroad, he does well to begin as he
does. (2) The first argument, because our faith is tried through afflictions: which ought to be most
pure, for so it suits us.
#BCV:James 1:3
<h3><verse=James 1:3>James 1:3</verse></h3>




(3) Knowing [this], that the (d) trying of your faith worketh patience.



(3) The second, because patience, a surpassing and most excellent virtue, is brought about in us by
this means.



(d) That by this your faith is tried, that is, those various temptations.
#BCV:James 1:4
<h3><verse=James 1:4>James 1:4</verse></h3>




(4) But let patience have [her] perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.



(4) The third argument, proposed in manner of an exhortation, that true and lasting patience may be
discerned from false and temporary. Affliction is the instrument God uses to polish and refine us.
Therefore through the work and effect of afflictions, we are perfected in Christ.
#BCV:James 1:5
<h3><verse=James 1:5>James 1:5</verse></h3>


<page=3250>(5) If any of you lack (e) wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all [men] liberally, and
upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.



(5) An answer to a private objection; It is easily said, but not so easily done. He answers that we need,
in this case, a different type of wisdom than the wisdom of man, to determine those things that are
best for us, since they are disagreeable to the flesh: but we shall easily obtain this gift of wisdom, if
we ask correctly, that is, with a sure confidence in God, who is entirely bountiful and liberal.



(e) By wisdom he means the knowledge of that doctrine previously mentioned, that is, why we are
afflicted by God, and the fruit we reap from affliction.
#BCV:James 1:6
<h3><verse=James 1:6>James 1:6</verse></h3>



But let him ask in faith, (f) nothing wavering. (6) For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven
with the wind and tossed.



(f) Why then, what need is there of another mediator or priest? (6) A digression or going aside from
his matter, as compared to prayers which are conceived with a doubting mind, but we have a
trustworthy promise from God, and this is the second part of the epistle.
#BCV:James 1:8
<h3><verse=James 1:8>James 1:8</verse></h3>



A double minded man [is] unstable in (g) all his ways.



(g) In all his thoughts and his deeds.
#BCV:James 1:9
<h3><verse=James 1:9>James 1:9</verse></h3>




(7) Let the brother of (h) low degree rejoice in that he is exalted:



(7) He returns to his purpose repeating the proposition, which is, that we must rejoice in affliction,
for it does not oppress us, but exalt us.



(h) Who is afflicted with poverty, or contempt, or with any kind of calamity.
#BCV:James 1:10
<h3><verse=James 1:10>James 1:10</verse></h3>




(8) But the (i) rich, in that he is made low: (9) because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away.



(8) Before he concludes, he gives a doctrine contrasted to the former: that is, how we ought to use
prosperity, that is, the abundance of all things: that is, so that no man pleases himself, but rather be
humble.



(i) Who has all things at his will. (9) An argument taken from the very nature of the things
themselves, for that they are empty and unreliable.
#BCV:James 1:11
<h3><verse=James 1:11>James 1:11</verse></h3>

<page=3251>For the sun is no sooner risen with a burning heat, but it withereth the grass, and the flower thereof
falleth, and the grace of the fashion of it perisheth: so also shall the rich man fade away in his (k)
ways.



(k) Whatever he purposes in his mind or does.
#BCV:James 1:12
<h3><verse=James 1:12>James 1:12</verse></h3>




(10) Blessed [is] the man that endureth (l) temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown
of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him.



(10) The conclusion: Therefore we must patiently bear the affliction: and he adds a fourth argument,
which comprehends the sum of all the former, that is, we gain the crown of life in this way, yet by
grace according to the promise.



(l) Affliction, by which the Lord tries him.
#BCV:James 1:13
<h3><verse=James 1:13>James 1:13</verse></h3>




(11) Let no man say when he is (m) tempted, I am tempted of God: (12) for God cannot be
tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:



(11) The third part of this epistle, in which he descends from outward temptations, that is, from
afflictions by which God tries us: to inward, that is, to those lusts by which we are stirred up to do
evil. The sum is this: Every man is the author of these temptations by himself, and not God: for we
carry in our bodies that wicked corruption, which seeks opportunity forever, to stir up evil in us,
from which eventually proceeds wicked behaviour, and in conclusion follows death, the just reward
of them.



(m) When he is provoked to do evil.



(12) Here a reason is shown, why God cannot be the author of evil behaviour in us, since he does
not desire evil behaviour.
#BCV:James 1:15
<h3><verse=James 1:15>James 1:15</verse></h3>



Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth n) sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth
death.



(n) By sin, in this place, he means actual sin.
#BCV:James 1:16
<h3><verse=James 1:16>James 1:16</verse></h3>


<page=3252>(13) Do not err, my beloved brethren.



(13) Another reason taken from opposites: God is the author of all goodness, and so, since he is
always like himself; how then can he be thought to be the author of evil?
#BCV:James 1:17
<h3><verse=James 1:17>James 1:17</verse></h3>



Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the (o) Father of lights,
with whom is no variableness, neither (p)shadow of turning.



(o) From him who is the fountain and author of all goodness.



(p) He goes on in the metaphor: for the sun by his many and various kinds of turning, makes hours,
days, months, years, light and darkness.
#BCV:James 1:18
<h3><verse=James 1:18>James 1:18</verse></h3>




(14) Of his own (q) will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of (r)
firstfruits of his creatures.



(14) The fourth part concerning the excellency and fruit of the word of God, The sum is this: we
must listen to the word of God most carefully and diligently, seeing it is the seed, through which
God by his free favour and love has begotten us to himself, picking us out of the number of his
creatures. The apostle condemns two faults, which greatly trouble us in this matter. For we so please
ourselves, that we would rather speak ourselves, than hear God speaking. Indeed, we are angry when
we are reproached and ignore it. Opposed to these faults, he sets a peaceable and quiet mind, and
such as desires purity.



(q) This is what Paul calls gracious favour, an good will, which is the fountain of our salvation.



(r) As it were an holy type of offering, taken out of the remnant of men.
#BCV:James 1:20
<h3><verse=James 1:20>James 1:20</verse></h3>



For the wrath of man worketh not the (s) righteousness of God.



(s) That which God appoints.
#BCV:James 1:21
<h3><verse=James 1:21>James 1:21</verse></h3>



Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with (t) meekness the
engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.



(t) By meekness he means modesty, and anything that is contrary to a haughty and proud spirit.
#BCV:James 1:22
<h3><verse=James 1:22>James 1:22</verse></h3>

#BCV:jam 1:22
<h3><verse=jam 1:22>jam 1:22</verse></h3>




(15) Another admonition: therefore God's word is heard, that we may model our lives according to
the laws it contains. (16) He adds reasons, and those most weighty: first, because they that do
otherwise seriously harm themselves.
#BCV:James 1:23
<h3><verse=James 1:23>James 1:23</verse></h3>




(17) For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his (u)
natural face in a glass:



(17) Secondly: because they lose the most important use of God's word, if they do not use it to
correct the faults that they know.



(u) He alludes to that natural stain, which is contrary to the purity that we are born again into, the
living image which we see in the law.
#BCV:James 1:25
<h3><verse=James 1:25>James 1:25</verse></h3>



But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth [therein], he being not a forgetful
hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his (x) deed.



(x) Behaviour: for works show faith.
#BCV:James 1:26
<h3><verse=James 1:26>James 1:26</verse></h3>




(18) If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his (y)
own heart, this man's religion [is] vain.



(18) The third admonition: the word of God lays down a rule to not only do well, but also to speak
well.



(y) The fountain of all babbling, cursed speaking, and impudence is this, that men do not know
themselves.
#BCV:James 1:27
<h3><verse=James 1:27>James 1:27</verse></h3>




(19) Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To (z) visit the fatherless and
widows in their affliction, [and] to keep himself unspotted from the world.



(19) The fourth: the true service of God exists in charity towards our neighbours, especially those
who need the help of others (fatherless and widows), and purity of life.



(z) To care for them and to help them as much as we can.

<h2>James 2</h2>

#BCV:James 2:1
<h3><verse=James 2:1>James 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=3254>My (1) brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, [the Lord] of (a) glory, with respect of
persons.



(1) The first: charity which proceeds from a true faith, cannot exist with the respecting of people:
which he proves plainly by using the example of those who, while having reproach or disdain for the
poor, honour the rich.



(a) For if we knew what Christ's glory is, and esteemed it as we should, there would not be the
respecting of people that there is.
#BCV:James 2:3
<h3><verse=James 2:3>James 2:3</verse></h3>



And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a (b)
good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:



(b) In a worshipful and honourable place.
#BCV:James 2:4
<h3><verse=James 2:4>James 2:4</verse></h3>



Are ye not then partial in (c) yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?



(c) Have you not within yourselves judged one man to be preferred over another (which you should
not do) by means of this?
#BCV:James 2:5
<h3><verse=James 2:5>James 2:5</verse></h3>




(2) Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the (d) poor of this world rich in faith, and
heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?



(2) He shows that those who prefer the rich over the poor are wicked and disobedient judges, since
God on the other hand prefers the poor (whom he has enriched with true riches) over the rich.



(d) The needy and wretched, and (if we measure it after the opinion of the world) the most
degraded of all men.
#BCV:James 2:6
<h3><verse=James 2:6>James 2:6</verse></h3>



But ye have despised the poor. (3) Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment
seats?

<page=3255>(3) Secondly, he proves them to be fools: since the rich men are rather to be held detestable and
cursed, considering that they persecute the church, and blaspheme Christ: for he speaks of wicked
and profane rich men, as most of them have always been, beside whom he contrasts the poor and
degraded.
#BCV:James 2:7
<h3><verse=James 2:7>James 2:7</verse></h3>



Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are (e) called?



(e) Literally, "which is called upon of you".
#BCV:James 2:8
<h3><verse=James 2:8>James 2:8</verse></h3>




(4) If ye fulfil the (f) royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye
do well:



(4) The conclusion: charity which God prescribes cannot agree with the respecting of people, seeing
that we must walk in the king's highway.



(f) The law is said to be royal and like the king's highway, in that it is simple and without changes,
and that the law calls everyone our neighbour without respect, whom we may help by any kind of
duty.
#BCV:James 2:10
<h3><verse=James 2:10>James 2:10</verse></h3>




(5) For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one [point], he is guilty of (g) all.



(5) A new argument to prove the same conclusion: Those who neglect some and ambitiously honour
others do not love their neighbours. For they do not obey God if they remove from the
commandments of God those things that are not convenient for them. Rather they are guilty of
breaking the whole law, even though they observe part of it.



(g) Not that all sins are equal, but because he who breaks one small part of the law, offends the
majority of the given law.
#BCV:James 2:11
<h3><verse=James 2:11>James 2:11</verse></h3>




(6) For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery,
yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law.



(6) A proof: because the Lawmaker is always one and the same, and the contents of the law cannot
be divided.
#BCV:James 2:12
<h3><verse=James 2:12>James 2:12</verse></h3>


<page=3256>(7) So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.



(7) The conclusion of the whole treatise: we are upon this condition delivered from the curse of the
law by the mercy of God, that in the same way we should maintain and cherish charity and good will
towards one another, and whoever does not do so, shall not taste of the grace of God.
#BCV:James 2:13
<h3><verse=James 2:13>James 2:13</verse></h3>



For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no (h) mercy; and mercy rejoiceth
against judgment.



(h) He that is harsh and short with his neighbour, or else does not help him, he shall find God a
hard and rough judge to him.
#BCV:James 2:14
<h3><verse=James 2:14>James 2:14</verse></h3>




(8) What [doth it] profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith
save him?



(8) The fifth place which follows very well with the former treatise, concerning a true and living faith.
The proposition of the place is this: Faith which does not bring forth works is not that faith by
means of which we are justified, but an false image of that faith, or else this: they who do not show
the effects of faith are not justified by faith.
#BCV:James 2:15
<h3><verse=James 2:15>James 2:15</verse></h3>




(9) If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,



(9) The first reason taken from a comparison: if a man says to one who is hungry "Fill your belly"
and yet gives him nothing, this is not true charity. If a man says he believes and does not bring forth
works of his faith, this is not true faith, but truly a dead thing called with the name of faith, of
which no man has room to brag, unless he will openly incur reprehension, since the cause is
understood by the effects.
#BCV:James 2:18
<h3><verse=James 2:18>James 2:18</verse></h3>



Yea, (i) a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and
I will shew thee my faith by my works.



(i) No, by this every man will be eaten up with pride.
#BCV:James 2:19
<h3><verse=James 2:19>James 2:19</verse></h3>




(10) Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

<page=3257>(10) Another reason taken from an absurdity: if such a faith were the true faith by means of which
we are justified, the demons would be justified, for they have that, but nonetheless they tremble and
are not justified, therefore neither is that faith a true faith.
#BCV:James 2:20
<h3><verse=James 2:20>James 2:20</verse></h3>




(11) But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?



(11) The third reason from the example of Abraham, who no doubt had a true faith: but he in
offering his son, showed himself to have that faith which was not without works, and therefore he
received a true testimony when it was laid, that faith was imputed to him for righteousness.
#BCV:James 2:21
<h3><verse=James 2:21>James 2:21</verse></h3>



Was not Abraham our father (k) justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?



(k) Was he not by his works known and found to be justified? For he speaks not here of the causes
of justification, but by what effects we may know that a man is justified.
#BCV:James 2:22
<h3><verse=James 2:22>James 2:22</verse></h3>



Seest thou how faith (l) wrought with his works, and by works was faith made (m) perfect?



(l) Was effectual and fruitful with good works.



(m) That the faith was declared to be a true faith, through works.
#BCV:James 2:23
<h3><verse=James 2:23>James 2:23</verse></h3>



And the scripture was (n) fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him
for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.



(n) Then the Scripture was fulfilled, when it appeared plainly how truly it was written about
Abraham.
#BCV:James 2:24
<h3><verse=James 2:24>James 2:24</verse></h3>




(12) Ye see then how that by works a man is (o) justified, and not by (p) faith only.



(12) The conclusion: Only he who has faith that has works following it is justified.



(o) Is proved to be just.



(p) Of that dead and fruitless faith which you boast of.
#BCV:James 2:25
<h3><verse=James 2:25>James 2:25</verse></h3>

#BCV:jam 2:25
<h3><verse=jam 2:25>jam 2:25</verse></h3>



messengers, and had sent [them] out another way?



(13) A forth reason taken from a similar example of Rahab the harlot, who was proved by her works
that she was justified by a true faith.
#BCV:James 2:26
<h3><verse=James 2:26>James 2:26</verse></h3>




(14) For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.



(14) The conclusion repeated again: faith does not bring forth fruits and works is not faith, but a
dead carcass.

<h2>James 3</h2>

#BCV:James 3:1
<h3><verse=James 3:1>James 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=3259>My (1) brethren, be not many masters, (2) knowing that we (a) shall receive the greater
condemnation.



(1) The sixth part or place: Let no man usurp (as most men ambitiously do) authority to judge and
censure others harshly. (2) A reason: Because they provoke God's anger against themselves, who do
so eagerly and harshly condemn others, being themselves guilty and faulty.



(a) Unless we cease from this imperious and proud finding of fault with others.
#BCV:James 3:2
<h3><verse=James 3:2>James 3:2</verse></h3>



For in many things we offend all. (3) If any man offend not in word, the same [is] a perfect man,
[and] able also to bridle the whole body.



(3) The seventh place, concerning the bridling of the tongue, joined with the former, so that it is
revealed that there is no man in who can not justly be found fault as well, seeing as it is a rare virtue
to bridle the tongue.
#BCV:James 3:3
<h3><verse=James 3:3>James 3:3</verse></h3>




(4) Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole
body.



(4) He shows by two comparisons, the one taken from the bridles of horses, the other from the
rudder of ships, how great matters may be brought to pass by the good control of the tongue.
#BCV:James 3:5
<h3><verse=James 3:5>James 3:5</verse></h3>



Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. (5) Behold, how great a matter a
little fire kindleth!



(5) On the contrary part he shows how great inconveniences arise by the excesses of the tongue,
throughout the whole world, to the end that men may so much the more diligently give themselves
to control it.
#BCV:James 3:6
<h3><verse=James 3:6>James 3:6</verse></h3>



And the tongue [is] a fire, a (b) world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it
defileth the whole body, and (c) setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.

<page=3260>(b) A heap of all mischiefs.



(c) It is able to set the whole world on fire.
#BCV:James 3:9
<h3><verse=James 3:9>James 3:9</verse></h3>




(6) Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the



(7) similitude of God.



(6) Among other faults of the tongue, the apostle chiefly reproves slandering and speaking evil of
our neighbours, even in those especially who otherwise will seem godly and religious. (7) He denies
by two reasons, that God can be praised by the man who uses cursed speaking, or slandering: first
because man is the image of God and whoever does not reverence him, does not honour God.
#BCV:James 3:10
<h3><verse=James 3:10>James 3:10</verse></h3>




(8) Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so
to be.



(8) Secondly, because the order of nature which God has set in things, will not allow things that are
so contrary to one another, to stand with one another.
#BCV:James 3:13
<h3><verse=James 3:13>James 3:13</verse></h3>




(9) Who [is] a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good
conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.



(9) The eighth part, which goes with the former concerning meekness of mind, against which he
sets envy and a contentious mind: in the beginning he shuts the mouth of the main fountain of all
these mischiefs, that is, a false persuasion of wisdom, whereas nonetheless there is no true wisdom,
but that which is heavenly, and shapes our minds to all types of true discipline and modesty.
#BCV:James 3:17
<h3><verse=James 3:17>James 3:17</verse></h3>



But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, [and] easy to be intreated, full
of (d) mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.



(d) He sets mercy against the fierce and cruel nature of man, and shows that heavenly wisdom
brings forth good fruits, for he that is heavenly wise, refers all things to God's glory, and the profit
of his neighbours.
#BCV:James 3:18
<h3><verse=James 3:18>James 3:18</verse></h3>




(10) And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.

<page=3261>(10) Because the world persuades itself that they are miserable who live peaceably and simply: on the
contrary, the apostle states that they shall eventually reap the harvest of peaceable righteousness.

<h2>James 4</h2>

#BCV:James 4:1
<h3><verse=James 4:1>James 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=3262>From (1) whence [come] wars and fightings among you? [come they] not hence, [even] of your lusts
that war in your members?



(1) He advances the same argument, condemning certain other causes of wars and contentions, that
is, unbridled pleasures and uncontrolled lusts, by their effects, for so much as the Lord does worthily
make them come to no effect, so that they bring nothing to them in whom they reside, but incurable
torments.
#BCV:James 4:2
<h3><verse=James 4:2>James 4:2</verse></h3>



Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye fight and war, yet ye have not,



(2) because ye ask not.



(2) He reprehends them by name, who are not ashamed to make God the minister and helper of
their lusts and pleasures, in asking things which are either in themselves unlawful or being lawful, ask
for them out of wicked motives and uses.
#BCV:James 4:4
<h3><verse=James 4:4>James 4:4</verse></h3>




(3) Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God?
whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.



(3) Another reason why such unbridled lusts and pleasures are utterly to be condemned, that is,
because he who gives himself to the world divorces himself from God, and breaks the band of that
holy and spiritual marriage.
#BCV:James 4:5
<h3><verse=James 4:5>James 4:5</verse></h3>




(4) Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?



(4) The taking away of an objection: in deed our minds run headlong into these vices, but we ought
so much the more diligently take heed of them: whose care and study shall not be in vain, seeing
that God resists the stubborn and gives the grace to the modest and humble that surmounts all
those vices.
#BCV:James 4:7
<h3><verse=James 4:7>James 4:7</verse></h3>




(5) Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

<page=3263>(5) The conclusion: We must set the positive virtues against those vices, and therefore whereas we
obeyed the suggestions of the devil, we must submit our minds to God and resist the devil with a
certain and assured hope of victory. In short, we must endeavour to come near to God by purity
and sincerity of life.
#BCV:James 4:9
<h3><verse=James 4:9>James 4:9</verse></h3>




(6) Be afflicted, and mourn, and weep: let your laughter be turned to mourning, and [your] joy to (a)
heaviness.



(6) He goes on in the same comparison of opposites, and contrasts those profane joys with an
earnest sorrow of mind, and pride and arrogancy with holy modesty.



(a) By this word the Greeks mean a heaviness joined with shamefacedness, which is to be seen in a
cast down countenance, and settled as it were upon the ground.
#BCV:James 4:11
<h3><verse=James 4:11>James 4:11</verse></h3>




(7) Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of [his] brother, and judgeth his
brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer
of the law, but a judge.



(7) He reprehends most sharply another double mischief of pride. The one is, in that the proud and
arrogant will have other men to live according to their will and pleasure. Therefore they do most
arrogantly condemn whatever does not please them: which cannot be done without great injury to
our only lawmaker. For through this his laws are found fault with, as not carefully enough written,
and men challenge that to themselves which properly belongs to God alone, in that they lay a law
upon men's consciences.

#BCV:James 4:13
<h3><verse=James 4:13>James 4:13</verse></h3>

(8) Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year,
and buy and sell, and get gain:

(8) The other fault is this: That men do so confidently determine on these and those matters and
businesses, as though every moment of their life did not depend on God.

#BCV:James 4:17
<h3><verse=James 4:17>James 4:17</verse></h3>

(9) Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth [it] not, to him it is sin.

(9) The conclusion of all the former treatise. The knowledge of the will of God does not only not
at all profit, unless the life be answerable unto it, but also makes the sins far more grievous.

<h2>James 5</h2>

#BCV:James 5:1
<h3><verse=James 5:1>James 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=3264>Go (1) to now, [ye] rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon [you].

(1) He denounces utter destruction to the wicked and profane rich men, and such as are drowned in
their riotousness, mocking their foolish confidence when there is nothing indeed more vain than
such things.

#BCV:James 5:4
<h3><verse=James 5:4>James 5:4</verse></h3>

Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by
fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the (a) ears of the Lord of
sabaoth.

(a) The Lord who is more mighty than ye are, hath heard them.

#BCV:James 5:5
<h3><verse=James 5:5>James 5:5</verse></h3>

Ye have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; ye have (b) nourished your hearts, as in a (c)
day of slaughter.

(b) You have pampered yourselves.

(c) The Hebrews call a day that is appointed to solemn banqueting, a day of slaughter or feasting.

#BCV:James 5:7
<h3><verse=James 5:7>James 5:7</verse></h3>

(2) Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. (3) Behold, the husbandman
waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and
latter rain.

(2) He applies that to the poor, which he spoke against the rich, warning them to wait for the Lord's
coming patiently, who will avenge the injuries which the rich men do to them. (3) The taking away
of an objection: Although his coming seems to linger, yet at the least we must follow the farmer, we
who do patiently wait for the times that are fitting for the fruits of the earth. And again, God will
not postpone the least bit of the time that he has appointed.

#BCV:James 5:9
<h3><verse=James 5:9>James 5:9</verse></h3>




(4) (d) Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: (5) behold, the judge
standeth before the door.

<page=3265>(4) He commends Christian patience, for that which others through impatience use to accuse one
another, the faithful on the other hand, do not complain though they receive injury.



(d) By grudging he means a certain inward complaining which indicates impatience. (5) The
conclusion: The Lord is at the door and will defend his own and avenge his enemies, and therefore
we do not need to trouble ourselves.
#BCV:James 5:10
<h3><verse=James 5:10>James 5:10</verse></h3>




(6) Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of
suffering affliction, and of patience.



(6) Because most men will object, that it is good to repel injuries by whatever means, he contrasts
that with the examples of the fathers whose patience had a most happy end, because God as a most
bountiful Father, never forsakes his.
#BCV:James 5:11
<h3><verse=James 5:11>James 5:11</verse></h3>



Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen
the (e) end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.



(e) What end the Lord gave.
#BCV:James 5:12
<h3><verse=James 5:12>James 5:12</verse></h3>




(7) But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by
any other oath: but let (f) your yea be yea; and [your] nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.



(7) Because even the best men sometimes through impatience slip and speak oaths sometimes lesser,
sometimes greater, the apostle warns us to detest such wickedness, and to accustom our tongues to
simple and true talk.
#BCV:James 5:13
<h3><verse=James 5:13>James 5:13</verse></h3>




(8) Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms.



(8) He shows the best remedy against all afflictions, that is, prayers which have their place both in
sorrow and joy.
#BCV:James 5:14
<h3><verse=James 5:14>James 5:14</verse></h3>




(9) Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him,
anointing him with (g) oil in the (h) name of the Lord:

<page=3266>(9) He shows peculiarly, to what physicians especially we must go when we are diseased, that is, to
the prayers of the elders, which then also could cure the body, (for so much as the gift of healing
was then in force) and take away the main cause of sickness and diseases, by obtaining healing for
the sick through their prayers and exhortations.



(g) This was a sign of the gift of healing: and now seeing we have the gift no more, the sign is no
longer necessary.



(h) By calling on the name of the Lord.
#BCV:James 5:15
<h3><verse=James 5:15>James 5:15</verse></h3>



And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have
committed (i) sins, they shall be forgiven him.



(i) He has reason in making mention of sins, for diseases are often sent because of sins.
#BCV:James 5:16
<h3><verse=James 5:16>James 5:16</verse></h3>




(10) Confess [your] faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. (11) The
effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.



(10) Because God pardons the sins of those who confess and acknowledge them, and not those
who justify themselves. Therefore the apostle adds, we ought to freely confer with one another
concerning those inward diseases, that we may help one another with our prayers.



(11) He commends prayers by the effects that come of them, that all men may understand that there
is nothing more effectual than they are, so that they proceed from a pure mind.
#BCV:James 5:19
<h3><verse=James 5:19>James 5:19</verse></h3>




(12) Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one (k) convert him;



(12) The taking away of an objection: all rebukes are not condemned, seeing that on the contrary
there is nothing more acceptable to God than to call into the holy way, a brother that was wandering
out of the way.



(k) Has called him back from his way.

<h1>1 Peter</h1>


<h2>1 Peter 1</h2>

#BCV:1 Peter 1:2
<h3><verse=1 Peter 1:2>1 Peter 1:2</verse></h3>


<page=3267>(1) Elect according to the (a) foreknowledge of God the Father, through (b) sanctification of the
Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be
multiplied.



(1) Peter purposing to speak of the duties of a Christian life, reasons first of the principles and
beginnings of all Christian actions, rising far higher than nature, and carrying us also far above the
same. For he shows that we who are otherwise by nature sinners, were through the free mercy of
God the Father first chosen from everlasting: then according to that everlasting decree. We were by a
certain second creation made his sons in Christ his only begotten, by whose Spirit we are inwardly
changed and by whose blood we are also reconciled. To the end, that as Christ himself rose again
from the dead, we also might be received into that same heavenly and everlasting glory.



(a) Or, according to the purpose of God, who never alters nor changes the same.



(b) That being set apart from the rest of this wicked world, through the working of the Holy Spirit,
they should be consecrated to God; (<bcv=Eph 1:5>Eph 1:5</bcv>)
#BCV:1 Peter 1:3
<h3><verse=1 Peter 1:3>1 Peter 1:3</verse></h3>



Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy
hath begotten us again unto a (c) lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,



(c) Everlasting hope.
#BCV:1 Peter 1:5
<h3><verse=1 Peter 1:5>1 Peter 1:5</verse></h3>




(2) Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the (d)
last time.



(2) Now he shows by what way we come to that glory, that is, through all types of afflictions.
Wherein nonetheless faith maketh us so secure, that we are not overcome with sorrow. But through
the beholding of God himself (who otherwise is invisible) with the eyes of faith, we are made
unspeakably joyful. Because all such things, as they are but for a time, so are they not applied unto us
to destroy us, but as it were by fire to purge us, and to make us perfect that at length we may obtain
salvation.

<page=3268>(d) This is that time which Daniel calls the time of the end, when the great restoring of all things
shall be, which all creation looks for; (<bcv=Rom 8:19>Rom 8:19</bcv>)
#BCV:1 Peter 1:7
<h3><verse=1 Peter 1:7>1 Peter 1:7</verse></h3>



That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried
with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the (e) appearing of Jesus Christ:



(e) He speaks of the second coming of Christ.
#BCV:1 Peter 1:10
<h3><verse=1 Peter 1:10>1 Peter 1:10</verse></h3>




(3) Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the
grace [that should come] unto you:



(3) He makes a difference between true faith, that is to say, that faith which only has an eye to the
doctrine of the prophets and apostles, and false faith. Afterward he makes two degrees of one and
the same faith, according to the manner of the various revelations, when as in deed it is but one only
faith. Thirdly, he says that the preaching of the apostles is the fulfilling of the preaching of the
prophets, although the latter end of it be as yet looked for by the very angels.
#BCV:1 Peter 1:12
<h3><verse=1 Peter 1:12>1 Peter 1:12</verse></h3>



Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things,
which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy
Ghost (f) sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into.



(f) He alludes to the prophecy of Joel, which was exhibited upon the day of Pentecost, in the
Apostles, as it were in the first fruits of the Holy Spirit, which this same prophecy Peter declares;



(<bcv=Acts 2:6>Act 2:6</bcv>)
#BCV:1 Peter 1:13
<h3><verse=1 Peter 1:13>1 Peter 1:13</verse></h3>




(4) Wherefore (g) gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and (5) hope (h) to the end for the grace



(6) that is to be brought unto you (7) at the revelation of Jesus Christ;



(4) He goes from faith to hope, which is indeed a companion that cannot be separated from faith.
He uses an argument taken by comparison: We should not be wearied in looking for so excellent a
thing, which the very angels wait for with great desire.



(g) This is a borrowed speech, taken from common use among them: for since they wore long
garments, they could not travel unless they girded up themselves: and hence it is that Christ said, Let
your loins be girded up. (5) He sets forth very briefly, what manner of hope ours ought to be, that is,
continual, until we enjoy the thing we hope for: then, what we have to hope for, that is, grace (that is,
<page=3269>free salvation) revealed to us in the gospel, and not that, that men do rather and fondly promise to
themselves.



(h) Soundly and sincerely. (6) An argument to stir up our minds, seeing that God does not wait until
we seek him, but causes so great a benefit to be brought even unto us. (7) He sets out the end of
faith, lest any man should promise himself, either sooner or latter, that full salvation, that is, the
latter coming of Christ. In addition warns that that which we are now, is not yet revealed.
#BCV:1 Peter 1:14
<h3><verse=1 Peter 1:14>1 Peter 1:14</verse></h3>




(8) As obedient children, not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance:



(8) He passes from faith and hope, to the fruits of them both, which are understood in the name of
obedience. It consists in two things, in renouncing our lusts, and living godly: which lusts have their
beginning in that blindness in which all men are born: but holiness proceeds that the father and the
children may be of one disposition.
#BCV:1 Peter 1:16
<h3><verse=1 Peter 1:16>1 Peter 1:16</verse></h3>




(9) Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy.



(9) He shows that sanctification does necessarily follow adoption.
#BCV:1 Peter 1:17
<h3><verse=1 Peter 1:17>1 Peter 1:17</verse></h3>




(10) And if ye (i) call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every
man's work, pass the time of your sojourning [here] in fear:



(10) As before he distinguished true faith and hope from false, so does he now obedience, setting
the quick and sharp sight of God, against an outward mask, and earnest reverence against vain
severity.



(i) If you will be called the sons of that father.

#BCV:1 Peter 1:18
<h3><verse=1 Peter 1:18>1 Peter 1:18</verse></h3>




(11) Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, [as] silver and gold,
from your vain conversation [received] by tradition from your fathers;



(11) An exhortation, in which he sets forth the excellency and greatness of the benefit of God the
Father in sanctifying us by the death of his own Son. And he partly sets the purifyings of the law
against the thing itself, that is, against the blood of Christ, and partly also men's traditions, which he
condemns as utterly vain and superstitious, be they never so old and ancient.

#BCV:1 Peter 1:20
<h3><verse=1 Peter 1:20>1 Peter 1:20</verse></h3>



(12) Who verily was foreordained before the (k) foundation of the world, but was manifest in these
last times for you,



(12) The taking away of an objection: what was done to the world, before Christ was sent into the
world? was there no holiness before, and was there no Church? The apostle answers, that Christ was
ordained and appointed to redeem and deliver mankind, before mankind was: much less was there
any Church without him before his coming in the flesh: yet we are happiest about the rest, to whom
Christ was exhibited indeed, in this that he having suffered and overcome death for us, does now
most effectually work in us by the power of his Spirit, to create in us faith, hope, and charity.



(k) From everlasting.
#BCV:1 Peter 1:22
<h3><verse=1 Peter 1:22>1 Peter 1:22</verse></h3>




(13) Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love
of the brethren, [see that ye] love one another with a pure heart fervently:



(13) He commends the practice of obedience, that is, charity: earnestly repeating again, that he
speaks not of any common charity, and such as proceeds from that our corrupt nature, but of that
whose beginning is the Spirit of God, which purifies our souls through the word laid hold on by
faith, and engenders also in us a spiritual and everlasting life, as God himself is most pure and truly
living.
#BCV:1 Peter 1:24
<h3><verse=1 Peter 1:24>1 Peter 1:24</verse></h3>




(14) For all (l) flesh [is] as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth,
and the flower thereof falleth away:



(14) A reason why we need this heavenly birth, that is, because men, though their glory may not be
great, are by nature void of all true and sound goodness.



(l) The word, "flesh", shows the weakness of our nature, which is chiefly to be considered in the
flesh itself.
#BCV:1 Peter 1:25
<h3><verse=1 Peter 1:25>1 Peter 1:25</verse></h3>




(15) But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is
preached unto you.



(15) Again lest any man should seek that spiritual force and virtue in feigned imaginations, the
apostle calls us back to the word of God: teaching us furthermore, that there is no other word of
the Lord to be looked for than this that is preached, in which we must trust alone.

<h2>1 Peter 2</h2>

#BCV:1 Peter 2:1
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:1>1 Peter 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=3271>Wherefore (1) laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings,



(1) Having laid for the foundation the Spirit of God effectually working by the word, and having
built on it three virtues which are the grounds of all Christian actions, that is, faith, hope, and charity:
now he proceeds to a general exhortation the first part being that we flee all show of both secret
and open malice.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:2
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:2>1 Peter 2:2</verse></h3>




(2) As (a) newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:



(2) The second is, that being newly begotten and born of the new seed of the incorrupt word,
drinking and sucking greedily the same word as milk, we should grow more and more in that
spiritual life. And he calls it, sincere, not only because it is a most pure thing, but also that we should
take heed of them which corrupt it.



(a) As it becomes new men.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:3
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:3>1 Peter 2:3</verse></h3>




(3) If so be ye have tasted that the Lord [is] gracious.



(3) He commends that spiritual nourishment for the sweetness and profit of it.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:4
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:4>1 Peter 2:4</verse></h3>




(4) To whom coming, [as unto] a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, [and]
precious,



(4) He advances the same exhortation, but uses another kind of borrowed speech, alluding to the
temple. Therefore he says, that the company of the faithful is as a certain holy and spiritual building,
built of the living stones, the foundation of which is Christ, as a living stone sustaining all that are
joined to him with his living power and knitting them together with himself, although this great
treasure is neglected by men.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:5
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:5>1 Peter 2:5</verse></h3>

<page=3272>Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, (5) an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual
sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.



(5) Continuing, he compares us now to priests, placed for this purpose in the spiritual temple, that
we should serve him with a spiritual worship, that is, with holiness and righteousness: but as the
temple, so is the priesthood built upon Christ, in who alone all our spiritual offerings are accepted.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:6
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:6>1 Peter 2:6</verse></h3>




(6) Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect,
precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded.



(6) He proves it by the testimony of the prophet Isaiah.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:7
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:7>1 Peter 2:7</verse></h3>




(7) Unto you therefore which believe [he is] precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone
which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner,



(7) By setting the most blessed condition of the believers and triumphs over the other: and also
prevents an offence which arises here, that none do more resist this doctrine of the gospel, than
they who are chiefest among the people of God. In the time that Peter wrote these things, they were
the priests, elders and scribes. Therefore he answers first of all, that there is no reason why any man
should be astonished by their stubbornness, as though it were a strange matter, seeing as we have
been foretold so long before, that it should so come to pass: and moreover, that it pleased God to
create and make certain for this same purpose, that the Son of God might be glorified in their just
condemnation. Thirdly, that the glory of Christ is hereby set forth greatly, whereas nonetheless
Christ remains the sure head of his Church, and they that are offended by him, cast down and
overthrow themselves, and not Christ. Fourthly, although they are created for this end and purpose,
yet their fall and destruction is not to be attributed to God, but to their own obstinate stubbornness,
which comes between God's decree, and the execution of it, or their condemnation, and is the true
and proper cause of their destruction.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:9
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:9>1 Peter 2:9</verse></h3>




(8) But ye [are] a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye
should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:



(8) On the other hand, he describes the singular excellency of the elect, and also lest any man should
doubt whether he is chosen or not, the apostle calls us back to the effectual calling, that is, to the
voice of the gospel sounding both in our ears and minds by the outward preaching and ordinances,
by which we may certainly understand that everlasting decree of our salvation (which otherwise is
most secret and hidden) and that through the only mercy of God who freely chooses and calls us.
<page=3273>Therefore only this remains, faith, that by all means possible we set forth the great goodness of the
most mighty God.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:11
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:11>1 Peter 2:11</verse></h3>




(9) Dearly beloved, (10) I beseech [you] as strangers and pilgrims, (11) abstain from fleshly lusts, (12)
which war against the soul;



(9) He returns to that general exhortation.



(10) A reason why we ought to live holy, that is, because we are citizens of heaven, and therefore we
ought to live not according to the laws of this world, which is most corrupt, but of the heavenly city,
although we are strangers in the world.



(11) Another argument: The children of God live not according to the flesh, that is, according to
that corrupt nature, but according to the Spirit. Therefore fleshly actions should not rule us.



(12) The third argument: for although those lusts gratify us, yet they do not cease to fight against our
salvation.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:12
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:12>1 Peter 2:12</verse></h3>




(13) Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as
evildoers, they (14) may by [your] good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of (b)
visitation.



(13) The fourth argument, taken from the profit of so doing: for by this means also we provide for
our good name and estimation, while we compel them at length to change their minds, who speak
evil of us.



(14) The fifth argument, which is also of great force: because the glory of God is greatly set forth by
that means, by example of our honest life, then the most corrupt men are brought to God, and
submit themselves to him.



(b) When God shall have mercy on them.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:13
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:13>1 Peter 2:13</verse></h3>




(15) Submit yourselves to (c) every ordinance of man (16) for the Lord's sake: (17) whether it be to
the king, as supreme;



(15) That which he spoke generally, he now expounds in detail, describing individually every man's
duty. First, he speaks of the obedience that is due both to the laws, and also to the magistrates both
higher and lower.

<page=3274>(c) By ordinance, is meant the inventing and ordering of civil government, which he calls ordinance
of man, not because man invented it, but because it is proper for men.



(16) The first argument: because the Lord is the author and avenger of this policy of men, that is,
which is set among men: and therefore the true servants of the Lord must above all others be
diligent observers of this order.



(17) He prevents a frivolous objection which is made by some, who say they will obey kings and the
higher magistrates, and yet condemn their ministers, as though their ministers were not armed with
the authority of those who sent them.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:14
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:14>1 Peter 2:14</verse></h3>



Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him (18) for the punishment of evildoers, and for
the praise of them that do well.



(18) The second argument taken from the end of this order, which is not only most profitable, but
also very necessary: seeing that by that this means virtue is rewarded, and vice punished, in which
the peacefulness and happiness if this life consists.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:15
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:15>1 Peter 2:15</verse></h3>




(19) For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish
men:



(19) He declares the first argument more amply, showing that Christian liberty does among all things
least or not at all consist in this, that is, to cast off the bridle of laws (as at that time some altogether
unskilful in the kingdom of God reported) but rather in this, that living holy lives according to the
will of God, we should reveal to all men, that the gospel is not a cloak for sin and wickedness, seeing
we are free of this sort, that yet we are still the servants of God, and not of sin.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:17
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:17>1 Peter 2:17</verse></h3>




(20) (d) Honour all [men]. Love the (e) brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.



(20) He divides the civil life of man, by occasion of those things of which he spoke, into two
general parts: that is, into those duties which private men owe to private men, and especially the
faithful to the faithful, and into that subjection by which inferiors are bound to their superiors, but
so that kings are not made equal to God, seeing that fear is due to God, and honour to kings.



(d) Be charitable and dutiful towards all men.



(e) The assembly and fellowship of the brethren. (<bcv=Zec 11:14>Zac 11:14</bcv>)

#BCV:1 Peter 2:18
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:18>1 Peter 2:18</verse></h3>


(21) Servants, [be] subject to [your] masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to
the froward.



(21) He goes to the duty of servants towards their masters, which he describes with these bounds,
that servants submit themselves willingly and not by force, not only to the good and courteous, but
also to the perverse and severe matters.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:19
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:19>1 Peter 2:19</verse></h3>




(22) For this [is] thankworthy, if a man for (f) conscience toward God endure grief, suffering
wrongfully.



(22) The taking away of an objection: indeed the condition of servants is hard, especially if they
have perverse masters, but thus their subjection shall be so much more acceptable to God, if his will
prevails more with servants, than the masters wrong treatment.



(f) Because he makes a conscience of it, to offend God, by whose good will and appointment he
knows this burden is laid upon him.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:21
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:21>1 Peter 2:21</verse></h3>




(23) For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an (g) example,
that ye should follow his steps:



(23) He alleviates the grievousness of servanthood, while he shows plainly that Christ died also for
servants, that they should bear so much more patiently this inequality between men who are of the
same nature: moreover setting before them Christ the Lord of lords for an example, he signifies that
they cannot but seem too subdued, who show themselves more grieved in the bearing of injuries,
than Christ himself who was most just, and most severely of all afflicted, and yet was most patient.



(g) A metaphor of speech taken from painters and schoolmasters.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:23
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:23>1 Peter 2:23</verse></h3>



Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but (24)
committed [himself] to him (25) that judgeth righteously:



(24) He shows them a remedy against injuries, that is, that they commend their cause to God, by the
example of Christ.



(25) He seems now to turn his speech to masters, who have also themselves a master and judge in
heaven, who will justly avenge the injuries that are done to servants, without any respecting of
people.
#BCV:1 Peter 2:24
<h3><verse=1 Peter 2:24>1 Peter 2:24</verse></h3>


<page=3276>(26) Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should
live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.



(26) He calls the servants back from considering the injuries which they are constrained to bear, to
think instead on the greatness and the end of the benefit received from Christ.

<h2>1 Peter 3</h2>

#BCV:1 Peter 3:1
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:1>1 Peter 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=3277>Likewise, (1) ye wives, [be] in subjection to your own husbands; (2) that, if any obey not the word,
they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;



(1) In the third place he sets forth the wives' duties to their husbands, commanding them to be
obedient. (2) He speaks namely of those who had husbands who were not Christians, who ought so
much the more be subject to their husbands, that by their honest and chaste conversation, they may
win them to the Lord.
#BCV:1 Peter 3:3
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:3>1 Peter 3:3</verse></h3>




(3) Whose adorning let it not be that outward [adorning] of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold,
or of putting on of apparel;



(3) He condemns the unrestrained indulgences and excesses of women, and sets forth their true
apparel, such as is precious before God, that is, the inward and incorruptible, which consists in a
meek and quiet spirit.
#BCV:1 Peter 3:4
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:4>1 Peter 3:4</verse></h3>



But [let it be] the (a) hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, [even the ornament]
of a meek and quiet spirit, which is (b) in the sight of God of great price.



(a) Who has his abiding place fastened in the heart: so that the hidden man is set against the outward
adorning of the body.



(b) Precious indeed and so taken of God.
#BCV:1 Peter 3:5
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:5>1 Peter 3:5</verse></h3>




(4) For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned
themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:



(4) An argument taken from the example of women, and especially of Sarah, who was the mother
of all believers.
#BCV:1 Peter 3:6
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:6>1 Peter 3:6</verse></h3>



Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and
are (5) not afraid with any amazement.

<page=3278>(5) Because women are by nature fearful, he gives them to understand that he requires of them that
subjection, which is not wrung out from them either by force or fear.
#BCV:1 Peter 3:7
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:7>1 Peter 3:7</verse></h3>




(6) Likewise, ye husbands, (c) dwell with [them] according to (d) knowledge, (7) giving (e) honour
unto the wife, as unto the weaker (f) vessel, (8) and as being heirs together of the (g) grace of life; (9)
that your prayers be not hindered.



(6) He also teaches husbands their duties, that is, that the more understanding and wisdom they have,
the more wisely and circumspectly they behave themselves.



(c) Do all the duties of wedlock.



(d) The more wisdom the husband has, the more circumspectly he must behave himself in bearing
those inconveniences, which through the woman's weakness often cause trouble both to the
husband and the wife. (7) The second argument: because the wife nonetheless is weaker by nature
than the man, she is an excellent instrument of the man, made for far more excellent uses: upon
which it follows that she is not therefore to be neglected, because she is weak, but on the contrary
she ought to be so much more cared for.



(e) Having an honest care for her.



(f) The woman is called a vessel after the manner of the Hebrews, because the husband uses her as
his friend and helper, to live faithfully before God. (8) The third argument: for that they are equal in
that which is the most important (that is to say, in the benefit of eternal life) who otherwise are
unequal concerning the leadership and conduct at home, and therefore they are not to be despised
although they are weak.



(g) Of that gracious and free benefit, by which we have everlasting life given to us. (9) The fourth
argument: All fighting and rebuking must be avoided, because they hinder prayers and the whole
service of God, to which both the husband and wife are equally called.
#BCV:1 Peter 3:8
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:8>1 Peter 3:8</verse></h3>




(10) Finally, [be ye] all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, [be] pitiful,
[be] courteous:



(10) He turns to common exhortations, and commends harmony and whatever things pertain to the
maintenance of peace and mutual love.
#BCV:1 Peter 3:9
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:9>1 Peter 3:9</verse></h3>




(11) Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; (12) knowing that ye
are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.

<page=3279>(11) We must not only not recompense injury for injury, but we must also recompense them with
benefits.



(12) An argument taken by comparison: Seeing that we ourselves are unworthy of so great
bountifulness, than forgive one another's faults? And from this verse to the end of the chapter, 
(<bcv=1Pe 3:9-22>Pe1 3:9-22</bcv>), there is a digression, to exhort us valiantly to bear afflictions.

#BCV:1 Peter 3:10
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:10>1 Peter 3:10</verse></h3>




(13) For he that will love life, and (h) see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips
that they speak no guile:



(13) A secret objection: But this our patience shall be nothing else but an inciting and hardening of
the wicked in their wickedness, to make them set upon us more boldly and destroy us. Indeed (faith
the apostle by the words of David) to live without doing harm, and to follow after peace when it
flies away, is the way to that happy and quiet peace. If so be any man be afflicted for doing justly, the
Lord marks all things, and will in his time deliver the godly, who cry to him, and will destroy the
wicked.



(h) Lead a blessed and happy life.
#BCV:1 Peter 3:12
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:12>1 Peter 3:12</verse></h3>



For the eyes of the Lord [are] over the righteous, and his ears [are open] unto their prayers: but the (i)
face of the Lord [is] against them that do evil.



(i) This word "face" after the manner of the Hebrews, is taken for "anger".
#BCV:1 Peter 3:13
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:13>1 Peter 3:13</verse></h3>




(14) And who [is] he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good?



(14) The second argument: when the wicked are provoked, they are more wayward: therefore they
must instead be won by good deeds. If they cannot be gained by that means also, yet nonetheless we
shall be blessed if we suffer for righteousness sake.
#BCV:1 Peter 3:14
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:14>1 Peter 3:14</verse></h3>



But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy [are ye]: (15) and be not afraid of their (k) terror,
neither be troubled;



(15) A most certain counsel in afflictions, be they never so terrible, to be of a steady mind and to
stand fast. But how shall we attain to it? If we sanctify God in our minds and hearts, that is to say, if
we rest upon him as one that is almighty that loves mankind, that is good and true indeed.

<page=3280>(k) Be not dismayed as they are.
#BCV:1 Peter 3:15
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:15>1 Peter 3:15</verse></h3>



But (l) sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: (16) and [be] ready always to [give] an answer to every
man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:



(l) Give him all prayers and glory, and hang only on him.



(16) He will have us, when we are afflicted for righteousness sake, to be careful not for redeeming of
our life, either with denying or renouncing the truth, or with like violence, or any such means: but
rather to give an account of our faith boldly, and yet with a meek spirit, and full of godly reverence,
that the enemies may not have anything justly to object, but may rather be ashamed of themselves.
#BCV:1 Peter 3:17
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:17>1 Peter 3:17</verse></h3>




(17) For [it is] better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing.



(17) A reason which stands upon two general rules of Christianity, which nonetheless all men do not
allow. The one is, if we must suffer afflictions, it is better to suffer wrongfully than rightfully: the
other is this, because we are so afflicted not by accident, but by the will of our God.
#BCV:1 Peter 3:18
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:18>1 Peter 3:18</verse></h3>




(18) For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, (19) the just for the unjust, (20) that he might bring
us to God, (21) being put to death in the (m) flesh, but quickened by the Spirit:



(18) A proof of either of the rules, by the example of Christ himself our chief pattern, who was
afflicted not for his own sins (which were none) but for ours, and that according to his Father's
decree.



(19) An argument taken by comparison: Christ the just, suffered for us that are unjust and shall it
grieve us who are unjust, to suffer for the cause of Christ.



(20) Another argument being partly taken of things coupled together, that is, because Christ brings
us to his Father that same way that he went himself, and partly from the cause efficient: that is,
because Christ is not only set before us for an example to follow, but also he holds us up by his
power in all the difficulties of this life, until he bring us to his Father.



(21) Another argument taken from the happy end of these afflictions, in which Christ also goes
before us both in example and power, as one who suffered most grievous torments even to death,
although but only in one part of him, that is, in the flesh or man's nature: but yet became conqueror
by virtue of his divinity.



(m) As touching his manhood, for his body was dead, and his soul felt the sorrows of death.
#BCV:1 Peter 3:19
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:19>1 Peter 3:19</verse></h3>


<page=3281>(22) By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison;



(22) A secret objection: Christ indeed might do this, but what is that to us? Indeed (faith the apostle)
for Christ has showed his power in all ages both in the preservation of the godly, were they never so
few and miserable, and in avenging the rebellion of his enemies, as it appears by the history of the
flood: for Christ is he who in those days (when God through his patience appointed a time of
repentance to the world) was present, not in corporal presence, but by his divine power, preaching
repentance, even by the mouth of Noah himself who then prepared the ark, to those disobedient
spirits who are now in prison, waiting for the full recompence of their rebellion, and saved those few,



(that is, only eight people) in the water.
#BCV:1 Peter 3:20
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:20>1 Peter 3:20</verse></h3>



Which sometime were disobedient, when (n) once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of
Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight (o) souls were saved by water.



(n) This word "once" shows that there was a furthermost day appointed, and if that were once past,
there should be no more.



(o) Men.
#BCV:1 Peter 3:21
<h3><verse=1 Peter 3:21>1 Peter 3:21</verse></h3>




(23) The like figure whereunto [even] baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the
filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward (p) God,) (24) by the resurrection of
Jesus Christ:



(23) A proportional applying of the former example to the time which followed the coming of
Christ: for the preservation of Noah in the waters, was a figure of our baptism, not as though the
material water of baptism shows us, as those waters which bare up the ark saved Noah, but because
Christ with his inward virtue, which the outward baptism shadows, preserves us being washed, so
that we may call upon God with a good conscience.



(p) The conscience being sanctified, may freely call upon God.



(24) That same virtue, by which Christ rose again, and now being carried up into heaven has
received all power, does at this day defend and preserve us.

<h2>1 Peter 4</h2>

#BCV:1 Peter 4:8
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:8>1 Peter 4:8</verse></h3>


<page=3282>(6) And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude
of sins.



(6) He commends charity towards one another, because it buries a multitude of sins, and therefore
preserves and maintains peace and harmony: for they who love one another easily forgive one
another their offences.
#BCV:1 Peter 4:9
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:9>1 Peter 4:9</verse></h3>




(7) Use hospitality one to another without grudging.



(7) Of all the duties of charity, he commends one, namely that which was at that time most
necessary, that is, hospitality, which he would have be voluntary and most courteous and bountiful.
#BCV:1 Peter 4:10
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:10>1 Peter 4:10</verse></h3>




(8) As every man hath received the gift, [even so] minister the same one to another, (9) as good
stewards of the manifold grace of God.



(8) He shows the use of charity, that is, that every man bestow that gift which he hath received, to
the profit of his neighbour. (9) A reason, because that whatever gift we have, we have received it
from God on this condition, to be his disposers and stewards.
#BCV:1 Peter 4:11
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:11>1 Peter 4:11</verse></h3>




(10) If any man speak, [let him speak] as the oracles of God; if any man minister, [let him do it] as
of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to
whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.



(10) He reckons up two kinds of these gifts as chief, that is, the office of teaching in the Church,
and the other ecclesiastical functions, in which two things especially are to be observed: that is, that
the pure word of God be taught, and whatever is done, be referred to the glory of God the Father
in Christ, as to the proper mark.
#BCV:1 Peter 4:12
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:12>1 Peter 4:12</verse></h3>




(11) Beloved, think it not (d) strange (12) concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though
some strange thing happened unto you:

<page=3283>(11) Because that cross is joined with the sincere profession of religion, the apostle fitly repeats what
he touched on before, warning us not to be troubled at persecutions and afflictions, as at a new and
strange thing.



(d) As though some new thing had befallen you, which you never thought of before.



(12) The first reason: because the Lord does not mean to confuse us with his fire (as it were) but to
purge us of our impurities and make us perfect.
#BCV:1 Peter 4:13
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:13>1 Peter 4:13</verse></h3>




(13) But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be
revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.



(13) Another reason: because the afflictions of the godly and the wicked differ very much, and
chiefly in three points. First, because the godly communicate with Christ in the afflictions, and
therefore shall in their time also be partakers of his glory.
#BCV:1 Peter 4:14
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:14>1 Peter 4:14</verse></h3>




(14) If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy [are ye]; for the (e) spirit of glory and of
God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.



(14) Secondly, although the infidels think otherwise, who in afflicting the godly blaspheme God, yet
the godly in that they are so abused, are honoured by God with true spiritual glory, and their
adoption is sealed by the Spirit of God.



(e) By "Spirit" he means the gifts of the Spirit.
#BCV:1 Peter 4:15
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:15>1 Peter 4:15</verse></h3>




(15) But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or [as] a thief, or [as] an evildoer, or as a busybody in
other men's matters.



(15) The third difference: the godly are not afflicted for their evil doings, but for righteousness' sake
as Christians: by which it comes to pass that the cross, seeing it is a testimony to them of faith and
righteousness, ministers to them not an occasion of sorrow, but of unspeakable joy: now the apostle
propounds this third difference under the form of an exhortation.
#BCV:1 Peter 4:17
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:17>1 Peter 4:17</verse></h3>




(16) For the time [is come] that judgment must begin at the house of God: and (17) if [it] first
[begin] at us, what shall the end [be] of them that obey not the gospel of God?

<page=3284>(16) The third reason: because the Lord of all the world being especially watchful over those in his
household, does therefore discipline them first of all, yet so that he keeps a measure in his greatest
severity. As he always used to do until now, so he does now especially when he exhibited himself in
person to his Church.



(17) Lest the godly should be offended and stumble at that vain shadow of happiness of the wicked,
as though God were not the governor of the world, for that the wicked are in good case, and the
godly in evil, the apostle teaches by an argument of a comparison of them together, that God who
spares not his own, but nurtures them under the cross, will at length in his time handle the rebellious
and wicked far otherwise, whom he has appointed to utter destruction.
#BCV:1 Peter 4:19
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:19>1 Peter 4:19</verse></h3>




(18) Wherefore let them that suffer according to the will of God commit the keeping of their souls
[to him] in well doing, as unto a faithful Creator.



(18) The conclusion: seeing the godly are not afflicted by chance, but by the will of God, they ought
not to despair, but go forward nonetheless in the way of holiness and well doing, commending
themselves to God their faithful creator, that is to say, their Father.
#BCV:1 Peter 4:1
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:1>1 Peter 4:1</verse></h3>



Forasmuch (1) then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same
mind: for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin;



(1) Having ended his digression and sliding from his matter, now he returns to the exhortation
which he broke off, taking occasion by that which he said concerning the death and resurrection of
Christ, so defining our sanctification, that to be sanctified, is all one has to suffer in the flesh, that is
to say, to leave off from our wickedness and viciousness: and to rise again to God, that is to say, to
be renewed by the virtue of the holy Spirit, that we may lead the rest of our life which remains after
the will of God.
#BCV:1 Peter 4:2
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:2>1 Peter 4:2</verse></h3>



That he no longer should live the (a) rest of [his] time in the flesh to the lusts of men, but to the will
of God.



(a) So much of this present life as remains yet to be passed over.
#BCV:1 Peter 4:3
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:3>1 Peter 4:3</verse></h3>




(2) For the time past of [our] life may suffice us to have wrought the (b) will of the Gentiles, when
we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings, banquetings, and abominable idolatries:

<page=3285>(2) By putting us in mind of the dishonesty of our former life led in the filth of sin, he calls us to
earnest repentance.



(b) Wickedly and licentiously after the manner of the Gentiles.
#BCV:1 Peter 4:4
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:4>1 Peter 4:4</verse></h3>




(3) Wherein they think it (c) strange that ye run not with [them] to the same excess of riot, speaking
evil of [you]:



(3) That we be not moved with the enemies perverse and slanderous judgments of us, we have to set
against them that last judgment of God which remains for them: for none, whether they be then
found living or were dead before, shall escape it.



(c) They think it a new and strange matter.
#BCV:1 Peter 4:6
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:6>1 Peter 4:6</verse></h3>




(4) For this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged
according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.



(4) A digression because he made mention of the last general judgement. He prevents an objection,
that, seeing Christ came very lately, they may seem to be excusable who died before. But this the
apostle denies: for (faith he) this same gospel was preached to them also (for he speaks to the Jews)
and that to the same end that I now preach it to you, that is, that the flesh being abolished and put
away (that is to say, that wicked and disobedient corruption which reigns in men) they should suffer
themselves to be governed by the virtue of the Spirit of God.
#BCV:1 Peter 4:7
<h3><verse=1 Peter 4:7>1 Peter 4:7</verse></h3>




(5) But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.



(5) He returns to his purpose, using an argument taken from the circumstance of the time. Because
the last end is at hand, and therefore we must much more diligently watch and pray, with true
sobriety of mind.

<h2>1 Peter 5</h2>

#BCV:1 Peter 5:1
<h3><verse=1 Peter 5:1>1 Peter 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=3286>The (1) elders which are among you (2) I exhort, who am also an elder, and a witness of the
sufferings of Christ, and also a partaker of the glory that shall be revealed:



(1) He describes peculiarly the office of the Elders, that is to say, of them that have the care of the
Church. (2) He uses a preface concerning the circumstance of his own person: that is, that he as
their companion communes with them not of manners which he knows not, but in which he is as
well experienced as any, and propounds to them no other condition but that which he himself has
sustained before them, and still takes the same trouble, and also has the same hope together with
them.
#BCV:1 Peter 5:2
<h3><verse=1 Peter 5:2>1 Peter 5:2</verse></h3>




(3) (a) Feed the (4) flock of God which is (5) among you, (6) taking the oversight [thereof], not by
constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind;



(3) The first rule: he that is a shepherd let him feed the flock.



(a)



(4) The second: Let not shepherd consider, that the flock is not his, but Gods. (5) The third: Let not
shepherds invade other men's flocks, but let them feed that which God hath committed unto them.



(6) Let the shepherds govern the Church with the word and example of godly and unblamable life,
not by force but willingly, not for greedy gain, but with a ready mind, not as lords over God's
portion and heritage, but as his ministers.
#BCV:1 Peter 5:3
<h3><verse=1 Peter 5:3>1 Peter 5:3</verse></h3>



Neither as being lords over [God's] (b) heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.



(b) Which is the Christian people.
#BCV:1 Peter 5:4
<h3><verse=1 Peter 5:4>1 Peter 5:4</verse></h3>




(7) And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away.



(7) That the shepherds' minds are not overcome either with the wickedness of men, or their cruelty,
he warns them to continually look at the chief shepherd, and the crown which is laid up for them in
heaven.
#BCV:1 Peter 5:5
<h3><verse=1 Peter 5:5>1 Peter 5:5</verse></h3>


<page=3287>(8) Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all [of you] be subject one to another,
and be clothed with humility: (9) for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.



(8) He commends many peculiar Christian virtues, and especially modesty: an admonition all of us
need, but especially the younger ones by reason of the perverseness and pride of that age. (9)
Because pride seems to many to be the way to the glory of this life, the apostle testifies to the
opposite, that dishonour and shame is the reward of pride, and glory the reward of modesty.
#BCV:1 Peter 5:6
<h3><verse=1 Peter 5:6>1 Peter 5:6</verse></h3>



Humble yourselves therefore (10) under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:



(10) Because those proud and lofty spirits threaten the modest and humble, the apostle warns us to
set the power of God against the vanity of proud men, and to rely completely on his providence.
#BCV:1 Peter 5:8
<h3><verse=1 Peter 5:8>1 Peter 5:8</verse></h3>




(11) Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking
whom he may devour:



(11) The cruelty of Satan, who seeks by all means to devour us, is overcome by watchfulness and
faith.
#BCV:1 Peter 5:9
<h3><verse=1 Peter 5:9>1 Peter 5:9</verse></h3>



Whom resist stedfast in the faith, (12) knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your (c)
brethren that are in the world.



(12) The persecutions which Satan stirs up, are neither new nor proper to any one man, but from old
and ancient times common to the whole Church, and therefore we must suffer patiently, in which we
have such and so many fellows of our conflicts and combats.



(c) Amongst your brethren which are dispersed throughout the world.
#BCV:1 Peter 5:10
<h3><verse=1 Peter 5:10>1 Peter 5:10</verse></h3>




(13) But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye
have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle [you].



(13) He seals up as with a seal the former exhortation with a solemn prayer, again willing them to
ask increase of strength at his hands, of whom they had the beginning, and hope to have the
accomplishment: that is, of God the Father in Christ Jesus, in whom we are sure of the glory of
eternal life.

#BCV:1 Peter 5:12
<h3><verse=1 Peter 5:12>1 Peter 5:12</verse></h3>


(14) By Silvanus, a faithful brother unto you, as I suppose, I have written briefly, exhorting, and
testifying that this is the true grace of God wherein ye stand.



(14) Continuance and perseverance in the doctrine of the apostles is the only ground and
foundation of Christian strength: Now the sum of the apostles doctrine, is salvation freely given by
God.
#BCV:1 Peter 5:13
<h3><verse=1 Peter 5:13>1 Peter 5:13</verse></h3>




(15) The [church that is] at (d) Babylon, elected together with [you], saluteth you; and [so doth]
Marcus my son.



(15) Familiar salutations.



(d) In that famous city of Assyria, where Peter the apostle of circumcision then was.

<h1>2 Peter</h1>


<h2>2 Peter 1</h2>

#BCV:2 Peter 1:1
<h3><verse=2 Peter 1:1>2 Peter 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=3289>Simon (1) Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious
faith with us through the (a) righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ:



(1) A greeting, in which he gives them to understand that he deals with them as Christ's ambassadors,
and otherwise agrees with them in the same faith which is grounded on the righteousness of Jesus
Christ, our God and Saviour.



(a) In that God, in standing by his promises, showed himself faithful, and therefore just to us.
#BCV:2 Peter 1:2
<h3><verse=2 Peter 1:2>2 Peter 1:2</verse></h3>



Grace and peace be multiplied unto you (2) through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,



(2) Faith is the acknowledging of God and Christ, from which all our blessedness issues and flows.
#BCV:2 Peter 1:3
<h3><verse=2 Peter 1:3>2 Peter 1:3</verse></h3>




(3) According as his (b) divine power hath given unto us all things that [pertain] unto (c) life and
godliness, through the (d) knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:



(3) Christ sets forth himself to us plainly in the Gospel, and that by his only power, and gives us all
things which are required both for eternal life, in which he has appointed to glorify us, and also to
godliness, in that he furnishes us with true virtue.



(b) He speaks of Christ, whom he makes God and the only Saviour.



(c) To salvation.



(d) This is the sum of true religion, to be led by Christ to the Father, as it were by the hand.
#BCV:2 Peter 1:4
<h3><verse=2 Peter 1:4>2 Peter 1:4</verse></h3>




(4) Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be
partakers of the (e) divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.



(4) An explanation of the former sentence, declaring the causes of so great benefits, that is, God
and his free promise, from which all these benefits proceed, I say, these most excellent benefits, by
<page=3290>which we are delivered from the corruption of this world, (that is, from the wicked lusts which we
carry about in us) and are made like God himself.



(e) By the divine nature he means not the substance of the Godhead, but the partaking of those
qualities, by which the image of God is restored in us.
#BCV:2 Peter 1:5
<h3><verse=2 Peter 1:5>2 Peter 1:5</verse></h3>




(5) And beside this, giving all diligence, (h) add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge;



(5) Having laid the foundation (that is, having declared the causes of our salvation and especially of
our sanctification) now he begins to exhort us to give our minds wholly to the true use of this grace.
He begins with faith, without which nothing can please God, and he warns us to have it fully
equipped with virtue (that is to say, with good and godly manners) being joined with the knowledge
of God's will, without which, there is neither faith, neither any true virtue.



(h) Supply also, and support or aid.
#BCV:2 Peter 1:6
<h3><verse=2 Peter 1:6>2 Peter 1:6</verse></h3>




(6) And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness;



(6) He brings up certain and other principal virtues, of which some pertain to the first table of the
law, others to the last.
#BCV:2 Peter 1:8
<h3><verse=2 Peter 1:8>2 Peter 1:8</verse></h3>




(7) For if these things be in you, and abound, they make [you that ye shall] neither [be] barren nor
unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.



(7) As those fruits do spring from the true knowledge of Christ, so in like sort the knowledge itself
is fostered and grows by bringing forth such fruits, in so much that he that is unfruitful, did either
never know the true light, or has forgotten the gift of sanctification which he has received.
#BCV:2 Peter 1:9
<h3><verse=2 Peter 1:9>2 Peter 1:9</verse></h3>



But he that lacketh these things is blind, and (i) cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was
purged from his old sins.



(i) He that has not an effectual knowledge of God in him, is blind concerning the kingdom of God,
for he cannot see things that are afar off, that is to say, heavenly things.
#BCV:2 Peter 1:10
<h3><verse=2 Peter 1:10>2 Peter 1:10</verse></h3>


<page=3291>(8) Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do
these things, ye shall never fall:



(8) The conclusion: Therefore seeing our calling and election is approved by those fruits, and is
confirmed in us, and moreover seeing this is the only way to the everlasting kingdom of Christ, it
remains that we set our minds wholly on that way.
#BCV:2 Peter 1:12
<h3><verse=2 Peter 1:12>2 Peter 1:12</verse></h3>




(9) Wherefore I will not be negligent to put you always in remembrance of these things, though ye
know [them], and be established in the present truth.



(9) An amplifying of the conclusion joined with a modest excuse, in which he declares his love
towards them, and tells them of his death which is at hand.
#BCV:2 Peter 1:13
<h3><verse=2 Peter 1:13>2 Peter 1:13</verse></h3>



Yea, I think it meet, as long as I am in this (k) tabernacle, to stir you up by putting [you] in
remembrance;



(k) In this body.
#BCV:2 Peter 1:16
<h3><verse=2 Peter 1:16>2 Peter 1:16</verse></h3>




(10) For we have not followed cunningly devised fables, when we made known unto you the power
and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty.



(10) Another amplification taken from both the great certainty and also the excellency of his
doctrine, of which our Lord Jesus Christ the Son of God is author, whose glory the apostle both
saw and heard.
#BCV:2 Peter 1:19
<h3><verse=2 Peter 1:19>2 Peter 1:19</verse></h3>




(11) We have also a more sure word of prophecy; (12) whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as
unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day (l) dawn, and the (m) day star arise in your
hearts:



(11) The truth of the gospel is by this revealed, in that it agrees wholly with the foretellings of the
prophets.



(12) The doctrine of the apostles does not contradict the doctrine of the prophets, for they confirm
each other by each others testimonies, but the prophets were like candles which gave light to the
blind, until the brightness of the gospel began to shine.



(l) A more full and open knowledge, than was under the shadows of the law.

<page=3292>(m) That clearer doctrine of the gospel.
#BCV:2 Peter 1:20
<h3><verse=2 Peter 1:20>2 Peter 1:20</verse></h3>




(13) Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the (n) scripture is of any (o) private interpretation.



(13) The prophets are to be read, but so that we ask of God the gift of interpretation, for he who is
the author of the writings of the prophets, is also the interpreter of them.



(n) He joins the Scripture and prophecy together, to distinguish true prophecies from false.



(o) For all interpretation comes from God.
#BCV:2 Peter 1:21
<h3><verse=2 Peter 1:21>2 Peter 1:21</verse></h3>



For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but (p) holy men of God spake [as they
were] (q) moved by the Holy Ghost.



(p) The godly interpreters and messengers.



(q) Inspired by God: their actions were in very good order, and not as the actions of the profane
soothsayers, and foretellers of things to come.

<h2>2 Peter 2</h2>

#BCV:2 Peter 2:1
<h3><verse=2 Peter 2:1>2 Peter 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=3293>But (1) there were false prophets also among the (a) people, even as there shall be false teachers
among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them,
and bring upon themselves swift destruction.



(1) As in times past there were two kinds of prophets, the one true and the other false, so Peter tells
them that there will be true and false teachers in the Church, so much so that Christ himself will be
denied by some, who nonetheless will call him redeemer.



(a) Under the law, while the state and policy of the Jews was yet standing.
#BCV:2 Peter 2:2
<h3><verse=2 Peter 2:2>2 Peter 2:2</verse></h3>




(2) And many shall follow their pernicious ways; by reason of whom the way of truth shall be evil
spoken of.



(2) There shall not only be heresies, but also many followers of them.
#BCV:2 Peter 2:3
<h3><verse=2 Peter 2:3>2 Peter 2:3</verse></h3>




(3) And through covetousness shall they with feigned words make (b) merchandise of you: (4)
whose judgment now of a long time lingereth not, and their damnation slumbereth not.



(3) Covetousness for the most part is a companion of heresy, and makes trade in souls.



(b) They will abuse you, and sell you as they sell cattle in an auction. (4) Comfort for the godly: God
who cast the angels that fell away from him, headlong into the darkness of hell, to eventually be
judged; and who burned Sodom, and saved Lot, will deliver his elect from these errors, and will
utterly destroy those unrighteous.
#BCV:2 Peter 2:4
<h3><verse=2 Peter 2:4>2 Peter 2:4</verse></h3>



For if God spared not the angels that sinned, but cast [them] down to (c) hell, and delivered [them]
into (d) chains of darkness, to be reserved unto judgment;



(c) So the Greeks called the deep dungeons under the earth, which should be appointed to torment
the souls of the wicked in.



(d) Bound them with darkness as with chains: and by darkness he means that most miserable state
of life that is full of horror.
#BCV:2 Peter 2:5
<h3><verse=2 Peter 2:5>2 Peter 2:5</verse></h3>


And spared not the (e) old world, but saved Noah the eighth [person], a (f) preacher of
righteousness, bringing in the flood upon the world of the ungodly;



(e) Which was before the flood: not that God made a new world, but because the world seemed new.



(f) For one hundred and twenty years, he did not cease to warn the wicked both by word and deed,
of the wrath of God hanging over their heads.
#BCV:2 Peter 2:8
<h3><verse=2 Peter 2:8>2 Peter 2:8</verse></h3>




(For that righteous man dwelling among them, in (g) seeing and hearing, (h) vexed [his] righteous
soul from day to day with [their] unlawful deeds;)



(g) Whatever way he looked, and turned his ears.



(h) He had a troubled soul, and being vehemently grieved, lived a painful life.
#BCV:2 Peter 2:9
<h3><verse=2 Peter 2:9>2 Peter 2:9</verse></h3>



The Lord (i) knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto
the day of judgment to be punished:



(i) Has been long practised in saving and delivering the righteous.
#BCV:2 Peter 2:10
<h3><verse=2 Peter 2:10>2 Peter 2:10</verse></h3>




(5) But chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government.
Presumptuous [are they], selfwilled, they are not afraid to speak evil of (k) dignities.



(5) He goes to another type of corrupt men, who nonetheless are within the bosom of the Church,
who are wickedly given, and do seditiously speak evil of the authority of magistrates (which the
angels themselves that minister before God, do not discredit.) A true and accurate description of the
Romish clergy (as they call it.)



(k) Princes and great men, be they ever so high in authority.
#BCV:2 Peter 2:12
<h3><verse=2 Peter 2:12>2 Peter 2:12</verse></h3>




(6) But these, as natural brute beasts, (l) made to be taken and destroyed, speak evil of the things
that they understand not; and shall utterly perish in their (m) own corruption;



(6) An accurate description of the same persons, in which they are compared to beasts who are
made for destruction, while they give themselves to fill their bellies: For there is no greater ignorance
than is in these men: although they most impudently find fault with those things of which they
<page=3295>know not: and it shall come to pass that they shall destroy themselves as beasts with those pleasures
with which they are delighted, and dishonour and defile the company of the godly.



(l) Made to this end to be a prey to others: So do these men willingly cast themselves into Satan's
snares.



(m) Their own wicked conduct shall bring them to destruction.
#BCV:2 Peter 2:13
<h3><verse=2 Peter 2:13>2 Peter 2:13</verse></h3>



And shall receive the reward of unrighteousness, [as] they that count it pleasure to riot in the day
time. Spots [they are] and blemishes, sporting themselves with their own deceivings (n) while they
feast with you;



(n) When by being among the Christians in the holy banquets which the Church keeps, they would
seem by that to be true members of the Church, yet they are indeed but blots on the Church.
#BCV:2 Peter 2:14
<h3><verse=2 Peter 2:14>2 Peter 2:14</verse></h3>




(7) Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart
they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children:



(7) He condemns those men, showing even in their behaviour and countenance an unmeasurable
lust, making trade of the souls of vain persons, as men exercised in all the crafts of covetousness, to
be short, as men that sell themselves for money to curse the sons of God in the same way Balaam
did, whom the dumb beast reproved.
#BCV:2 Peter 2:17
<h3><verse=2 Peter 2:17>2 Peter 2:17</verse></h3>




(8) These are (o) wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of (p)
darkness is reserved for ever.



(8) Another note by which it may be known what manner of men they are, because they have
inwardly nothing but that which is utterly vain or very harmful, although they make a show of some
great goodness, yet they shall not escape unpunished for it, because under pretence of false freedom,
they draw men into the most miserable slavery of sin.



(o) Who boast of knowledge and have nothing in them.



(p) Most gross darkness.
#BCV:2 Peter 2:18
<h3><verse=2 Peter 2:18>2 Peter 2:18</verse></h3>



For when they speak great (q) swelling [words] of vanity, they (r) allure through the lusts of the flesh,
[through much] wantonness, those that were (s) clean escaped from them who live in error.

<page=3296>(q) They deceive with vain and swelling words.



(r) They take them, as fish are taken with the hook.



(s) Unfeignedly and indeed, clean departed from idolatry.
#BCV:2 Peter 2:20
<h3><verse=2 Peter 2:20>2 Peter 2:20</verse></h3>




(9) For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord
and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with
them than the beginning.



(9) It is better to have never known the way of righteousness, than to turn back from it to the old
filthiness: and men that do so, are compared to dogs and swine.

<h2>2 Peter 3</h2>

#BCV:2 Peter 3:1
<h3><verse=2 Peter 3:1>2 Peter 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=3297>This (1) second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in [both] which I stir up your pure minds by
way of remembrance:



(1) The remedy against those wicked enemies, both of true doctrine and holiness, is to be sought for
by the continual meditation of the writings of the prophets and apostles.
#BCV:2 Peter 3:3
<h3><verse=2 Peter 3:3>2 Peter 3:3</verse></h3>




(2) Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days (a) scoffers, walking after their own lusts,



(2) He vouches the second coming of Christ against the Epicureans by name.



(a) Monstrous men, who will seem wise by their contempt of God, and wicked boldness.
#BCV:2 Peter 3:4
<h3><verse=2 Peter 3:4>2 Peter 3:4</verse></h3>




(3) And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things
continue as [they were] from the beginning of the creation.



(3) The reason that these mockers pretend that the course of nature is as it was from the beginning,
therefore the world was from everlasting, and shall be forever.
#BCV:2 Peter 3:5
<h3><verse=2 Peter 3:5>2 Peter 3:5</verse></h3>




(4) For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the



(b) earth standing out of the water and in the water:



(4) He sets against them the creation of heaven and earth by the word of God, which these men are
willingly ignorant of.



(b) Which appeared, when the waters were gathered together into one place.
#BCV:2 Peter 3:6
<h3><verse=2 Peter 3:6>2 Peter 3:6</verse></h3>




(5) Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with (c) water, perished:



(5) Secondly he sets against them the universal flood, which was the destruction of the whole world.



(c) For the waters returning into their former place, this world, that is to say, this beauty of the earth
which we see, and all living creatures which live upon the earth, perished.

#BCV:2 Peter 3:7
<h3><verse=2 Peter 3:7>2 Peter 3:7</verse></h3>


(6) But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto
fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.



(6) Thirdly, he pronounces that it will not be harder for God to burn heaven and earth with fire, in
that day which is appointed for the destruction of the wicked (which he will also do) than it was for
him in times past to create them only with his word, and afterward to overwhelm them with water.
#BCV:2 Peter 3:8
<h3><verse=2 Peter 3:8>2 Peter 3:8</verse></h3>




(7) But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day [is] with the Lord as a thousand
years, and a thousand years as one day.



(7) The taking away of an objection: in that he seems to desire this judgment for a long time, in
respect of us it is true, but not before God, which whom there is no time either long or short.
#BCV:2 Peter 3:9
<h3><verse=2 Peter 3:9>2 Peter 3:9</verse></h3>




(8) The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; (9) but is
longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.



(8) The Lord will surely come, because he has promised: and neither sooner nor later than he has
promised. (9) A reason why the last day does not come too soon, because God patiently waits until
all the elect are brought to repentance, that none of them may perish.
#BCV:2 Peter 3:10
<h3><verse=2 Peter 3:10>2 Peter 3:10</verse></h3>




(10) But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass
away with a great (d) noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the
works that are therein shall be burned up.



(10) A very short description of the last destruction of the world, but in such sort as nothing could
be spoken more gravely.



(d) With the violence of a storm.
#BCV:2 Peter 3:11
<h3><verse=2 Peter 3:11>2 Peter 3:11</verse></h3>




(11) [Seeing] then [that] all these things shall be dissolved, what manner [of persons] ought ye to be
in [all] holy conversation and godliness,



(11) An exhortation to purity of life, setting before us that horrible judgment of God, both to bridle
our wantonness, and also to comfort us, so that we are found watching and ready to meet him at his
coming.
#BCV:2 Peter 3:12
<h3><verse=2 Peter 3:12>2 Peter 3:12</verse></h3>

<page=3299>Looking for and (e) hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire
shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?



(e) He requires patience from us, yet such patience as is not slothful.
#BCV:2 Peter 3:13
<h3><verse=2 Peter 3:13>2 Peter 3:13</verse></h3>



Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, (f) wherein
dwelleth righteousness.



(f) In which heavens.
#BCV:2 Peter 3:14
<h3><verse=2 Peter 3:14>2 Peter 3:14</verse></h3>



Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in



(g) peace, without spot, and blameless.



(g) that you may try to your benefit, how gently and profitable he is.
#BCV:2 Peter 3:15
<h3><verse=2 Peter 3:15>2 Peter 3:15</verse></h3>



And account [that] the longsuffering of our Lord [is] salvation; (12) even as our beloved brother
Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;



(12) Paul's epistles are allowed by the express testimony of Peter.
#BCV:2 Peter 3:16
<h3><verse=2 Peter 3:16>2 Peter 3:16</verse></h3>



As also in all [his] epistles, speaking in them of these things; (13) in which are some things hard to
be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as [they do] also the other
scriptures, unto their own destruction.



(13) There are some things that are obscure and dark which the ignorant use to overthrow men who
are not established, wrestling the testimony of the scripture for their own destruction. But this is the
remedy against such deceit, to labour that we may daily more and more grow up and increase in the
knowledge of Christ.

<h1>1 John</h1>


<h2>1 John 1</h2>

#BCV:1 John 1:1
<h3><verse=1 John 1:1>1 John 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=3301>That (1) which was from the beginning, which we have (a) heard, which we have seen with our eyes,
which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the (b) Word of life;



(1) He begins with the description of the person of Christ who he makes one and not two: and him
both God from everlasting (for he was with the Father from the beginning, and is that eternal life)
and also made true man, whom John himself and his companions both heard, beheld, and handled.



(a) I heard him speak, I saw him myself with my eyes, I handled with my hands him that is true God,
being made true man, and not I alone, but others also that were with me.



(b) That same everlasting Word by whom all things are made, and in whom only is there life.
#BCV:1 John 1:2
<h3><verse=1 John 1:2>1 John 1:2</verse></h3>




(For the life was manifested, and we have seen [it], and bear witness, and (c) shew unto you that
eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)



(c) Being sent by him: and that doctrine is correctly said to be shown, for no man could so much as
have thought of it, if it had not been thus shown.
#BCV:1 John 1:3
<h3><verse=1 John 1:3>1 John 1:3</verse></h3>



That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, (2) that ye also may have fellowship with
us: and truly our fellowship [is] with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.



(2) The use of this doctrine is this, that all of us being coupled and joined together with Christ by
faith, might become the sons of God: in which only consists all true happiness.
#BCV:1 John 1:5
<h3><verse=1 John 1:5>1 John 1:5</verse></h3>




(3) This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light,
and in him is no darkness at all.



(3) Now he enters into a question, by which we may understand that we are joined together with
Christ, that is, if we are governed with his light, which is perceived by the ordering of our life. And
thus he reasons, God is in himself most pure light, therefore he agrees well with them who are of
the light, but with them that are of the darkness he has no fellowship.
#BCV:1 John 1:7
<h3><verse=1 John 1:7>1 John 1:7</verse></h3>

<page=3302>But if we walk in the (d) light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, (4) and the
blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.



(d) God is said to be light by his own nature, and to be in light, that is to say, in that everlasting
infinite blessedness: and we are said to walk in light in that the beams of that light shine to us in the
Word. (4) A digression the matter at hand, to the remission of sins: for this our sanctification who
walk in the light, is a testimony of our joining and knitting together with Christ: but because this our
light is very dark, we must obtain another benefit in Christ, that is, that our sins may be forgiven us
being sprinkled with his blood: and this in conclusion is the support and anchor of our salvation.
#BCV:1 John 1:8
<h3><verse=1 John 1:8>1 John 1:8</verse></h3>




(5) If we say that we have no sin, we (e) deceive ourselves, and the (f) truth is not in us.



(5) There is none but need this benefit, because there is none that is not a sinner.



(e) This fully refutes that perfectness of works of supererogation (doing more than duty requires,
the idea that excess good works can form a reserve fund of merit that can be drawn on in favour of
sinners) which the papists dream of.



(f) So then, John speaks not thus for modesty's sake, as some say but because it is so indeed.
#BCV:1 John 1:9
<h3><verse=1 John 1:9>1 John 1:9</verse></h3>




(6) If we confess our sins, he is (g) faithful and just to (h) forgive us [our] sins, and to cleanse us
from all unrighteousness.



(6) Therefore the beginning of salvation is to acknowledge our wickedness and to require pardon
from him, who freely forgives all sins, because he has promised to do so and he is faithful and just.



(g) So then our salvation depends on the free promise of God, who because he is faithful and just,
will perform that which he hath promised.



(h) Where then are our merits? for this is our true happiness.
#BCV:1 John 1:10
<h3><verse=1 John 1:10>1 John 1:10</verse></h3>




(7) If we say that we have not sinned, we make him (i) a liar, and his (k) word is not in us.



(7) A repeat of the former verse, in which he condemned all of sin without exception: so much so
that if any man persuade himself otherwise, he does as much as in him lies, make the word of God
himself useless and to no effect, yes, he makes God a liar: for to why in times past did we need
sacrifices, or now Christ and the gospel, if we are not sinners?

<page=3303>(i) They do not only deceive themselves but are blasphemous against God.



(k) His doctrine shall have no place in us; that is, in our hearts.

<h2>1 John 2</h2>

#BCV:1 John 2:1
<h3><verse=1 John 2:1>1 John 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=3304>My (1) little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an



(a) advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:



(1) It does not follow that we must give our wicked nature free rein, or sin much more freely,
because our sins are cleansed by the blood of Christ, but we must rather much more diligently resist
sin, and yet we must not despair because of our weakness, for we have an advocate and a purger,
Christ Jesus the Just, and therefore acceptable to his Father.



(a) In that be names Christ, he eliminates all others.
#BCV:1 John 2:2
<h3><verse=1 John 2:2>1 John 2:2</verse></h3>



And he is the (b) propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for [the sins of] the (c)
whole world.



(b) Reconciliation and intercession go together, to give us to understand that he is both advocate and
high priest.



(c) For men of all sorts, of all ages, and all places, so that this benefit being not to the Jews only, of
whom he speaks as appears in (<bcv=1Jo 2:7>Jo1 2:7</bcv>) but also to other nations.

#BCV:1 John 2:3
<h3><verse=1 John 2:3>1 John 2:3</verse></h3>




(2) And hereby we do know that we (e) know him, (e) if we keep his commandments.



(2) He returns to the testimony of our union with God, that is, to sanctification, declaring what it is
to walk in the light, that is, to keep God's commandments. By this it follows that holiness does not
consist in those things which men have devised, neither in a vain profession of the gospel.



(d) This must be understood of such a knowledge as has faith with it, and not of a common
knowledge.



(e) For the tree is known by the fruit.
#BCV:1 John 2:4
<h3><verse=1 John 2:4>1 John 2:4</verse></h3>




(3) He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in
him.



(3) Holiness, that is, a life ordered according to the prescript of God's commandments, however
weak we are, is of necessity joined with faith, that is, with the true knowledge of the Father in the

<h1>Son.</h1>

#BCV:1 John 2:5
<h3><verse=1 John 2:5>1 John 2:5</verse></h3>


<page=3305>(4) But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the (f) love of God perfected: hereby know we that
we are in (g) him.



(4) He that keeps God's commandments loves God indeed: He that loves God, is in God, or is
joined together with God. Therefore he that keeps his commandments is in him.



(f) Wherewith we love God.



(g) He means our union with Christ.
#BCV:1 John 2:6
<h3><verse=1 John 2:6>1 John 2:6</verse></h3>




(5) He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.



(5) He that is one with Christ, must live his life, that is, must walk in his steps.
#BCV:1 John 2:7
<h3><verse=1 John 2:7>1 John 2:7</verse></h3>




(6) Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which ye had from
the beginning. The old commandment is the word which ye have heard from the beginning.



(6) The apostle expounding the commandment of charity towards one another, tells first that when
he urges holiness, he brings no new idea of life (as they use to do who devise traditions one after
another) but reminds them of that same law which God gave in the beginning, that is, by Moses, at
the time that God began to make laws for his people.
#BCV:1 John 2:8
<h3><verse=1 John 2:8>1 John 2:8</verse></h3>




(7) Again, a new commandment I write unto you, (h) which thing is true in him and in you: because
the darkness is past, and the true light now shineth.



(7) He adds that the doctrine indeed is old, but it is in a way new, both in respect to Christ, and also
to us: in whom he through the gospel, engraves his law effectually, not in tables of stone, but in our
minds. (h) Which thing (that is, that the doctrine is new which I write to you) is true in him, and in
you.
#BCV:1 John 2:9
<h3><verse=1 John 2:9>1 John 2:9</verse></h3>




(8) He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now.



(8) Now he comes to the second table, that is, to charity towards one another, and denies that a man
has true light in him, or is indeed regenerate and the son of God, who hates his brother: and such a
<page=3306>one wanders miserably in darkness, may he never brag of great knowledge of God for he knowingly
and willingly casts himself headlong into hell.
#BCV:1 John 2:12
<h3><verse=1 John 2:12>1 John 2:12</verse></h3>




(i) I write unto you, (9) little children, because your sins are forgiven you for his (k) name's sake.



(i) Therefore I write to you, because you are of their number whom God has reconciled to himself.



(9) He returns again from the sanctification to remission of sins, because that free reconciliation in
Christ is the ground of our salvation upon which afterwards sanctification must be built as upon a
foundation.



(k) For his own sake: in that he names Christ he eliminates all others, whether they are in heaven or
on earth.
#BCV:1 John 2:13
<h3><verse=1 John 2:13>1 John 2:13</verse></h3>




(10) I write unto you, fathers, because ye have known him [that is] from the beginning. (11) I write
unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. (12) I write unto you, little children,
because ye have known the Father.



(10) He shows that this doctrine agrees to all ages, and first of all speaking to old men, he shows
that Christ and his doctrine are ancient, and therefore if they enjoy with old things, nothing ought to
be more acceptable to them.



(11) He advertises to young men, if they desire to show their strength, that they have a most
glorious combat set here before them, that is, Satan the worst enemy, who must be overcome: willing
them to be as sure of the victory, as if they had already gotten it.



(12) Finally, he shows to children, that the true Father from whom they have to look for all good
things, is set before them in the gospel.
#BCV:1 John 2:14
<h3><verse=1 John 2:14>1 John 2:14</verse></h3>




(13) I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him [that is] from the beginning. I have
written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye
have overcome the wicked one.



(13) He adds afterward in like order, as many exhortations: as if he should say, Remember, you
Fathers, as I wrote even now, that the everlasting Son of God is revealed to us. Remember you
young men, that that strength by which I said that you put Satan to flight, is given to you by the
word of God which dwells in you.
#BCV:1 John 2:15
<h3><verse=1 John 2:15>1 John 2:15</verse></h3>


<page=3307>(14) Love not the (l) world, neither the things [that are] in the world. If any man love the world, the



(m) love of the Father is not in him.



(14) The world which is full of wicked desires, lusts or pleasures, and pride, is utterly hated by our
heavenly Father. Therefore the Father and the world cannot be loved together: and this admonition
is very necessary for young and growing youth.



(l) He speaks of the world, as it agrees not with the will of God, for otherwise God is said to love
the world with an infinite love, (<bcv=John 3:16>Joh 3:16</bcv>) that is to say, those whom he chose out of the world.



(m) Wherewith the Father is loved.
#BCV:1 John 2:17
<h3><verse=1 John 2:17>1 John 2:17</verse></h3>




(15) And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for
ever.



(15) He shows how much better it is to obey the Father's will, than the lusts of the world, by both
their natures and unlike event.
#BCV:1 John 2:18
<h3><verse=1 John 2:18>1 John 2:18</verse></h3>




(16) (n) Little children, (17) it is the last time: (18) and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come,
even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time.



(16) Now, he turns himself to little children, which nonetheless are well instructed in the sum of
religion, and wills them by various reasons to shake off laziness, which is too familiar with that age.



(n) He uses this word "Little" not because he speaks to children, but to allure them the more by
using such sweet words.



(17) First, because the last time is at hand, so that the matter suffers no delay.



(18) Secondly, because antichrists, that is, such as fall from God, are already come, even as they
heard that they would come. And it was necessary to warn that careless and fearless age of the
danger.
#BCV:1 John 2:19
<h3><verse=1 John 2:19>1 John 2:19</verse></h3>




(19) They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, (o) they would [no
doubt] have continued with us: (20) but [they went out], that they might be made manifest that they
were not all of us.



(19) A digression against certain offences and stumbling blocks at which that young age especially
might stumble and be shaken, Therefore that they should not be terrified with the falling back of
certain, first he makes plain to men that although those who fall from God and his religion had a
<page=3308>place in the Church, yet they were never of the Church: because the Church is the company of the
elect, who cannot perish, and therefore cannot fall from Christ.



(o) So then the elect can never fall from grace.



(20) Secondly, he shows that these things happen to the benefit of the Church, that hypocrites may
be plainly known.
#BCV:1 John 2:20
<h3><verse=1 John 2:20>1 John 2:20</verse></h3>




(21) But ye have an (p) unction from the (q) Holy One, and ye know all things.



(21) Thirdly, he comforts them, to make them stand fast, as they are anointed by the Holy Spirit with
the true knowledge of salvation.



(p) The grace of the Holy Spirit, and this is a borrowed type of speech taken from the anointings
used in the law.



(q) From Christ who is peculiarly called Holy.
#BCV:1 John 2:21
<h3><verse=1 John 2:21>1 John 2:21</verse></h3>




(22) I have not written unto you because ye know not the truth, but because ye know it, and that no
lie is of the truth.



(22) The taking away of an objection, He did not write these things to men who are ignorant of
religion, but rather to those who know the truth well, yes so far that they are able to discern truth
from falsehood.
#BCV:1 John 2:22
<h3><verse=1 John 2:22>1 John 2:22</verse></h3>




(23) Who is a liar but he that denieth that Jesus is the (r) Christ? He is antichrist, that denieth the
Father and the Son.



(23) He shows now plainly the false doctrine of the antichrist's, that is, that either they fight against
the person of Christ, or his office, or both together and at once. They who do so, boast and brag of
God in vain, for in denying the Son, the Father also is denied.



(r) Is the true Messiah.
#BCV:1 John 2:23
<h3><verse=1 John 2:23>1 John 2:23</verse></h3>




(s) Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: [



(but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also].

<page=3309>(s) They deceive themselves, and also deceive others, who say that the Moslems and other infidels
worship the same God that we do.
#BCV:1 John 2:24
<h3><verse=1 John 2:24>1 John 2:24</verse></h3>




(24) Let that therefore abide in you, which ye have heard from the beginning. If that which ye have
heard from the beginning shall remain in you, ye also shall continue in the Son, and in the Father.



(24) The whole preaching of the prophets and apostles is contrary to that doctrine, therefore it is
utterly to be cast away, and this wholly to be held and kept, which leads us to seek eternal life in the
free promise, that is to say, in Christ alone, who is given to us by the Father.
#BCV:1 John 2:26
<h3><verse=1 John 2:26>1 John 2:26</verse></h3>




(25) These [things] have I written unto you concerning them that seduce you.



(25) The same Spirit who endues the elect with the knowledge of the truth and sanctifies them,
gives them the gift of perseverance, to continue to the end.
#BCV:1 John 2:27
<h3><verse=1 John 2:27>1 John 2:27</verse></h3>



But the (t) anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye (u) need not that any man
teach you: but as the same (x) anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and
even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.



(t) The Spirit who you have received from Christ, and who has led you into all truth.



(u) You are not ignorant of those things, and therefore I teach them not as things that were never
heard of, but call them to your mind as things which you do know.



(x) He commends both the doctrine which they had embraced, and also highly praises their faith,
and the diligence of those who taught them, yet so, that he takes nothing from the honour due to
the Holy Spirit.
#BCV:1 John 2:28
<h3><verse=1 John 2:28>1 John 2:28</verse></h3>




(26) And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and
not be ashamed before him at his coming.



(26) The conclusion both of the whole exhortation, and also of the former treatise.
#BCV:1 John 2:29
<h3><verse=1 John 2:29>1 John 2:29</verse></h3>




(27) If ye know that he is righteous, ye know that every one that doeth righteousness is born of him.

<page=3310>(27) A passing over to the treatise following, which tends to the same purpose, but yet is more ample,
and handles the same matter in another way, for before he taught us to go from the effects to the
cause, and in this that follows, he goes from the causes to the effects. This is the sum of the
argument, God is the fountain of all righteousness, and therefore they that give themselves to
righteousness, are known to be born of him, because they resemble God the Father.

<h2>1 John 3</h2>

#BCV:1 John 3:1
<h3><verse=1 John 3:1>1 John 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=3311>Behold, (1) (a) what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be (b) called
the sons of God: (2) therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.



(1) He begins to declare this agreement of the Father and the Son, at the highest cause, that is, at
that free love of God towards us, with which he so loves us, that also he adopts us to be his children.



(a) What a gift of how great love.



(b) That we should be the sons of God, and so, that all the world may see that we are so. (2) Before
he declares this adoption, he says two things: the one, that this so great a dignity, is not to be
esteemed according to the judgment of the flesh, because it is unknown to the world, for the world
knows not God the Father himself.
#BCV:1 John 3:2
<h3><verse=1 John 3:2>1 John 3:2</verse></h3>




(3) Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know
that, when he shall appear, we shall be (c) like him; for we shall see him (d) as he is.



(3) The other: This dignity is not fully revealed to us ourselves, much less to strangers, but we are
sure of the accomplishment of it, in as much as we shall be like the Son of God himself and shall
enjoy his sight indeed, such as he is now, but yet this is deferred until his next coming.



(c) Like, but not equal.



(d) For now we see as in a glass (<bcv=1Co 13:12>Co1 13:12</bcv>)

#BCV:1 John 3:3
<h3><verse=1 John 3:3>1 John 3:3</verse></h3>




(4) And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even (e) as he is pure.



(4) Now he describes this adoption (the glory which as yet consists in hope) by the effect that is,
because whoever is made the Son of God, endeavours to resemble the Father in purity.



(e) This word signifies a likeness, but not an equality.
#BCV:1 John 3:4
<h3><verse=1 John 3:4>1 John 3:4</verse></h3>




(5) Whosoever (f) committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for (g) sin is the transgression of the
law.



(5) The rule of this purity can from no where else be taken but from the law of God, the
transgression of which is called sin.

<page=3312>(f) Does not give himself to pureness.



(g) A short definition of sin.
#BCV:1 John 3:5
<h3><verse=1 John 3:5>1 John 3:5</verse></h3>




(6) And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin.



(6) An argument taken from the material cause of our salvation: Christ in himself is most pure, and
he came to take away our sins, by sanctifying us with the Holy Spirit, therefore whoever is truly a
partaker of Christ, does not give himself to sin, and on the contrary, he that gives himself to sin
does not know Christ.
#BCV:1 John 3:6
<h3><verse=1 John 3:6>1 John 3:6</verse></h3>



Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever (h) sinneth hath not seen him, neither known
him.



(h) He is said to sin, that does not give himself to purity, and in him sin reigns: but sin is said to
dwell in the faithful, and not to reign in them.
#BCV:1 John 3:7
<h3><verse=1 John 3:7>1 John 3:7</verse></h3>




(7) Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is
righteous.



(7) Another argument of things joined together: He that lives justly, is just, and resembles Christ that
is just, and by that is known to be the Son of God.
#BCV:1 John 3:8
<h3><verse=1 John 3:8>1 John 3:8</verse></h3>




(8) He that committeth sin is of the (i) devil; for the devil (k) sinneth from the (l) beginning. For this
purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.



(8) An argument taken by contrast: the devil is the author of sin, and therefore he is that serves sin
is of the devil, or is ruled by the inspiration of the devil: and if he is the devil's son, then is he not
God's son: for the devil and God are so contrary to one another that the Son of God was sent to
destroy the works of the devil. Therefore on the other side, whoever resists sin, is the son of God,
being born again of his Spirit as of new seed, in so much, that by necessity he is now delivered from
the slavery of sin.



(i) Resembles the devil, as the child does the father, and is governed by his Spirit.



(k) He says not "sinned" but "sins" for he does nothing else but sin.

<page=3313>(l) From the very beginning of the world.
#BCV:1 John 3:9
<h3><verse=1 John 3:9>1 John 3:9</verse></h3>



Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his (m) seed remaineth in him: and he cannot
sin, because he is born of God.



(m) The Holy Spirit is so called by the effect he works, because by his power and mighty working, as
it were by seed, we are made new men.
#BCV:1 John 3:10
<h3><verse=1 John 3:10>1 John 3:10</verse></h3>




(9) In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not
righteousness is not of God, (10) neither he that loveth not his brother.



(9) The conclusion: by a wicked life they are known who are governed by the Sprit of the devil: and
by a pure life who are God's children.



(10) He begins to commend charity towards the brethren as another mark of the sons of God.
#BCV:1 John 3:11
<h3><verse=1 John 3:11>1 John 3:11</verse></h3>




(11) For this is the message that ye heard from the beginning, that we should love one another.



(11) The first reason taken from the authority of God who gives the commandment.
#BCV:1 John 3:12
<h3><verse=1 John 3:12>1 John 3:12</verse></h3>




(12) Not as Cain, [who] was of that wicked one, and slew his brother. (13) And wherefore slew he
him? Because his own works were evil, and his brother's righteous.



(12) An amplification taken from the contrary example of Cain who slew his brother.



(13) A short digression: Let us not marvel that we are hated by the world for doing our duty, for
such was the condition of Abel who was a just person: and who would not rather be like him than
Cain?
#BCV:1 John 3:14
<h3><verse=1 John 3:14>1 John 3:14</verse></h3>




(14) We (o) know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that
loveth not [his] brother abideth in death.



(14) The second reason: Because charity is a testimony that we are translated from death to life: and
therefore hatred towards the brethren is a testimony of death, and whoever nourishes it fosters
death in his bosom.

<page=3314>(o) Love is a token that we are translated from death to life, for by the effects the cause is known.
#BCV:1 John 3:15
<h3><verse=1 John 3:15>1 John 3:15</verse></h3>




(15) Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer: and ye know that no murderer hath eternal life
abiding in him.



(15) A confirmation: Whoever is a murderer, is in eternal death: he who hates his brother is a
murderer, therefore he is in death. Thereupon follows the other side: He that loves his brother has
passed to life, for indeed we are born dead.
#BCV:1 John 3:16
<h3><verse=1 John 3:16>1 John 3:16</verse></h3>




(16) Hereby perceive we the love [of God], because he laid down his life for us: and we ought to lay
down [our] lives for the brethren.



(16) Now he shows how far Christian charity extends, even so far, that according to the example of
Christ every man forgets himself, to provide for and help his brethren.
#BCV:1 John 3:17
<h3><verse=1 John 3:17>1 John 3:17</verse></h3>




(17) But whoso hath this (p) world's good, and seeth his brother have need, and (q) shutteth up his
bowels [of compassion] from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?



(17) He reasons by comparisons: for if we are bound even to give our life for our neighbours, how
much more are we bound to help our brothers' needs with our goods and substance?



(p) Wherewith this life is sustained.



(q) Opens not his heart to him, nor helps him willingly and cheerfully.
#BCV:1 John 3:18
<h3><verse=1 John 3:18>1 John 3:18</verse></h3>




(18) My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.



(18) Christian charity stands not in word but in deed, and proceeds from a sincere affection.
#BCV:1 John 3:19
<h3><verse=1 John 3:19>1 John 3:19</verse></h3>




(19) And hereby we know that we are of the truth, (20) and shall assure our hearts before him.



(19) He commends charity, by three effects: for first of all, by it we know that we are indeed the
sons of God, as he showed before.

<page=3315>(20) Therefore it comes that we have a quiet conscience, as on the opposite side he that thinks that
he has God for a judge, because he is guilty to himself either he is never or else very rarely quiet, for
God has a far sharper sight then we, and judges more severely.
#BCV:1 John 3:20
<h3><verse=1 John 3:20>1 John 3:20</verse></h3>



For (4) if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.



(r) If an evil conscience convicts us, much more ought the judgment of God condemn us, who
knows our hearts better than we ourselves do.
#BCV:1 John 3:21
<h3><verse=1 John 3:21>1 John 3:21</verse></h3>




(21) Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, [then] have we confidence toward God.



(21) A third effect also rises from the former, that in these miseries we are sure to be heard, because
we are the sons of God: as we understand by the grace of sanctification which is only for the elect.
#BCV:1 John 3:22
<h3><verse=1 John 3:22>1 John 3:22</verse></h3>




(22) And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those
things that are pleasing in his sight.



(22) The conclusion, that faith in Christ and love one towards another are things joined together,
and therefore the outward testimonies of sanctification must and do answer that inward testimony
of the Spirit given to us.
#BCV:1 John 3:24
<h3><verse=1 John 3:24>1 John 3:24</verse></h3>



And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him. And hereby we know that
he abideth in us, by the (f) Spirit which he hath given us.



(f) He means the Spirit of sanctification, whereby we are born again and live to God.

<h2>1 John 4</h2>

#BCV:1 John 4:1
<h3><verse=1 John 4:1>1 John 4:1</verse></h3>


<page=3316>(1) Beloved, believe not every (a) spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many
false prophets are gone out into the world.



(1) Taking occasion by the name of the Spirit, lest love and charity should be separated from the
worship of God, which chiefly depends on his true knowledge, he returns to that which he spoke of
in the second chapter concerning the taking heed of antichrists: He will have us here take heed of
two things, the one is, that seeing there are many false prophets, we should not trust every man: the
other is, that because many men teach false things, we should not therefore believe any. We must
then observe, that we may be able to discern the spirits of God which are to be followed, from
impure spirits which are to be avoided.



(a) This is spoken by metonymy and it is as if he had said, Believe not every one who says that he
has a gift of the Holy Spirit to do the office of a prophet.
#BCV:1 John 4:2
<h3><verse=1 John 4:2>1 John 4:2</verse></h3>




(2) Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: (b) Every spirit that confesseth that (c) Jesus Christ is come
in the (d) flesh is of God:



(2) He gives a certain and perpetual rule to know the doctrine of antichrist, that is, if either the
divine or human nature of Christ, or the true uniting of them together is denied: or if the least jot
that may be, be detracted from his office who is our only king, prophet and everlasting high priest.



(b) He speaks simply of the doctrine, and not of the person.



(c) The true Messiah.



(d) Is true man.
#BCV:1 John 4:4
<h3><verse=1 John 4:4>1 John 4:4</verse></h3>




(3) Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than
he that is in the world.



(3) He comforts the elect with a most sure hope of victory: but yet so, that he teaches them that
they fight not with their own power, but with the virtue and power of God.
#BCV:1 John 4:5
<h3><verse=1 John 4:5>1 John 4:5</verse></h3>




(4) They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them.

<page=3317>(4) He brings a reason why the world receives these teachers more willingly than the true: that is,
because they speak nothing but that which is worldly: which is another note also to know the
doctrine of antichrist by.
#BCV:1 John 4:6
<h3><verse=1 John 4:6>1 John 4:6</verse></h3>




(5) We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby
know we the (e) spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.



(5) He testifies to them that his doctrine and the doctrine of his companions, is the assured word of
God which of necessity we have boldly to set against all the mouths of the whole world, and
thereby discern the truth from falsehood.



(e) True prophets, against whom are false prophets, that is, those who err and lead others into error.
#BCV:1 John 4:7
<h3><verse=1 John 4:7>1 John 4:7</verse></h3>




(6) Beloved, let us love one another: (7) for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of
God, and knoweth God.



(6) He returns to the commending of brotherly love and charity. (7) The first reason: because it is a
very divine thing, and therefore very fitting for the sons of God: so that whoever is missing it
cannot be said to know God correctly.
#BCV:1 John 4:8
<h3><verse=1 John 4:8>1 John 4:8</verse></h3>



He that loveth not knoweth not God; (8) for God is love.



(8) A confirmation: for it is the nature of God to love men, of which we have a most manifest
proof above all other, in that of his only free and infinite good will towards us his enemies, he
delivered to death, not a common man, but his own Son, indeed his only begotten Son, to the end
that we being reconciled through his blood might be partakers in his everlasting glory.
#BCV:1 John 4:11
<h3><verse=1 John 4:11>1 John 4:11</verse></h3>




(9) Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.



(9) An other reason by comparison: if God so loved us, shall not we his children love one another?
#BCV:1 John 4:12
<h3><verse=1 John 4:12>1 John 4:12</verse></h3>




(10) No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is



(g) perfected in us.

<page=3318>(10) A third reason: Because God is invisible, therefore by this effect of his Spirit, that is, by charity,
he is understood to be not out of us, but united with us and in us, in whom he is so effectually
working.



(g) Is surely in us indeed, and in truth.
#BCV:1 John 4:14
<h3><verse=1 John 4:14>1 John 4:14</verse></h3>




(11) And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son [to be] the Saviour of the world.



(11) He underlays this charity with another foundation, that is, faith in Jesus, which joins us indeed
with him, even as charity witnesses that we are joined with him. Furthermore he testifies of Christ,
as who had seen him with his eyes.
#BCV:1 John 4:15
<h3><verse=1 John 4:15>1 John 4:15</verse></h3>



Whosoever shall (h) confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.



(h) With such a confession as comes from true faith, and is accompanied with love, so that there is
an agreement of all things.
#BCV:1 John 4:16
<h3><verse=1 John 4:16>1 John 4:16</verse></h3>



And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. (12) God is love; and he that
dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.



(12) A fourth reason: God is the fountain and wellspring of charity indeed charity itself: therefore
whoever abides in it, has God with him.
#BCV:1 John 4:17
<h3><verse=1 John 4:17>1 John 4:17</verse></h3>




(13) Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because (i)
as he is, so are we in this world.



(13) Again (as before) he commends love, seeing that by our agreement with God in this thing, we
have a sure testimony of our adoption, it comes to pass by this that without fear we look for that
latter day of judgment, so that trembling and torment of conscience is cast out by this love.



(i) This signifies a likeness, not an equality.
#BCV:1 John 4:18
<h3><verse=1 John 4:18>1 John 4:18</verse></h3>



There is no (k) fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that
feareth is not made perfect in love.

<page=3319>(k) If we understand by love, that we are in God, and God in us, that we are sons, and that we know
God, and that everlasting life is in us: he concludes correctly, that we may well gather peace and
quietness by this.
#BCV:1 John 4:19
<h3><verse=1 John 4:19>1 John 4:19</verse></h3>




(14) We love him, because he first loved us.



(14) Lest any man should think that that peace of conscience proceeds from our love as the cause,
he goes back to the fountain, that is, to the free love with which God loves us although we deserved
and do deserve his wrath. From this springs another double charity, which both are tokens and
witnesses of that first, that is, that we love God who loved us first, and then for his sake our
neighbours also.
#BCV:1 John 4:20
<h3><verse=1 John 4:20>1 John 4:20</verse></h3>




(15) If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: (16) for he that loveth not his
brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen?



(15) As he showed that the love of our neighbour cannot be separate from the love with which God
loves us because this last gives rise to the other: so he denies that the other kind of love with which
we love God, can be separate from the love of our neighbour: of which it follows, that they who say
they worship God, and yet do not regard their neighbours lie shamelessly.



(16) The first reason taken from comparison: why we cannot hate our neighbour and love God, that
is, because he that cannot love his brother whom he sees, how can he love God whom he cannot see?
#BCV:1 John 4:21
<h3><verse=1 John 4:21>1 John 4:21</verse></h3>




(17) And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.



(17) A second reason, why God cannot be hated and our neighbour loved, because this same
lawmaker commanded us both to love him and our neighbour.

<h2>1 John 5</h2>

#BCV:1 John 5:1
<h3><verse=1 John 5:1>1 John 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=3320>Whosoever (1) believeth that Jesus is the (a) Christ is born of God: and every one that loveth him
that begat loveth (b) him also that is begotten of him.



(1) He advances in the same argument, showing how both those loves come to us, from that love
with which God loves us, that is, by Jesus our mediator laid hold on by faith, in whom we are made
the children of God, and do love the Father from whom we are begotten, and also our brothers
who are begotten with us.



(a) Is the true Messiah.



(b) By one, he means all the faithful.
#BCV:1 John 5:2
<h3><verse=1 John 5:2>1 John 5:2</verse></h3>




(2) By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his (c)
commandments.



(2) The love of our neighbour depends on the love with which we love God, that this last must go
before the first: of which it follows, that that is not to be called love, when men agree together to do
evil, neither that, when as in loving our neighbours, we do not respect God's commandments.



(c) There is no love where there is no true doctrine.
#BCV:1 John 5:3
<h3><verse=1 John 5:3>1 John 5:3</verse></h3>




(3) For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: (4) and his commandments are not



(d) grievous.



(3) The reason: to love God, is to keep his commandments, which being so, and seeing that both the
loves are commanded by the same lawmaker, (as he taught before) it follows also, that we do not
love our neighbours, when we break God's commandments. (4) Because experience teaches us that
there is no ability in our flesh, neither will to perform God's commandments, therefore lest the
apostle should seem, by so often putting them in mind of the keeping of the commandments of
God, to require things that are impossible, he pronounces that the commandments of God are not
in any way grievous or burdensome, that we can be oppressed with the burden of them.



(d) To those who are regenerate, that is to say, born again, who are led by the Spirit of God, and are
through grace delivered from the curse of the law.
#BCV:1 John 5:4
<h3><verse=1 John 5:4>1 John 5:4</verse></h3>


<page=3321>(5) For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: (6) and this is the victory that (e)
overcometh the world, [even] our (f) faith.



(5) A reason: Because by regeneration we have received strength to overcome the world, that is to
say, whatever strives against the commandments of God. (6) He declares what that strength is, that
is, faith.



(e) He uses the time that is past, to give us to understand, that although we are in the battle, yet
undoubtedly we shall be conquerors, and are most certain of the victory.



(f) Which is the instrumental cause, and as a means and hand by which we lay hold on him, who
indeed performs this, that is, has and does overcome the world, even Christ Jesus.
#BCV:1 John 5:5
<h3><verse=1 John 5:5>1 John 5:5</verse></h3>




(7) Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?



(7) Moreover he declares two things, the one, what true faith is, that is, that which rests on Jesus
Christ the Son of God alone: on which follows the other, that is, that this strength is not proper to
faith, but by faith as an instrument is drawn from Jesus Christ the Son of God.
#BCV:1 John 5:6
<h3><verse=1 John 5:6>1 John 5:6</verse></h3>




(8) This is he that came by water and blood, [even] Jesus Christ; (9) not by water only, but by water
and blood. And it is the (g) Spirit that beareth witness, because the Spirit is truth.



(8) He proves the excellency of Christ, in whom only all things are given us by six witnesses, three
heavenly, and three earthly, who wholly and completely agree together. The heavenly witnesses are,
the Father who sent the Son, the Word itself, which became flesh, and the Holy Spirit. The earthly
witnesses are water, (that is our sanctification) blood, (that is, our justification) the Spirit, (that is,
acknowledging of God the Father in Christ by faith) through the testimony of the Holy Spirit. (9)
He warns us not to separate water from blood (that is sanctification from justification, or
righteousness, begun from righteousness imputed) for we do not stand on sanctification, but so far
as it is a witness of Christ's righteousness imputed to us: and although this imputation of Christ's
righteousness is never separated from sanctification, yet it is the only matter of our salvation.



(g) Our spirit which is the third witness, testifies that the holy Sprit is truth, that is to say, that that is
true which he tells us, that is, that we are the sons of God.
#BCV:1 John 5:7
<h3><verse=1 John 5:7>1 John 5:7</verse></h3>



For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the (h) Word, and the Holy Ghost: and
these three are (i) one.



(h) See (<bcv=John 8:13-14>Joh 8:13-14</bcv>)

<page=3322>(i) Agree in one.
#BCV:1 John 5:9
<h3><verse=1 John 5:9>1 John 5:9</verse></h3>




(10) If we receive the witness of men, the witness of God is greater: for (k) this is the witness of
God which he hath testified of his Son.



(10) He shows by an argument of comparison, of what great weight the heavenly testimony is, that
the Father has given of the Son, to whom agrees both the Son himself and the Holy Spirit.



(k) I conclude correctly: for the testimony which I said is given in heaven, comes from God, who
sets forth his Son.
#BCV:1 John 5:10
<h3><verse=1 John 5:10>1 John 5:10</verse></h3>




(11) He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God
hath made him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of his Son.



(11) He proves the sureness of the earthly witness by every man's conscience having that testimony
in itself, whose conscience he says cannot be deceived because it agrees with the heavenly testimony
which the Father gives of the Son: for otherwise the Father must be a liar, if the conscience which
agrees and assents to the Father, should lie.
#BCV:1 John 5:11
<h3><verse=1 John 5:11>1 John 5:11</verse></h3>




(12) And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.



(12) Now at length he shows what this testimony is that is confirmed with so many witnesses: that is,
that life or everlasting happiness is the gift of God, which is the Son, and proceeds from him to us,
who by faith are joined with him, so that without him, life is nowhere to be found.
#BCV:1 John 5:13
<h3><verse=1 John 5:13>1 John 5:13</verse></h3>




(13) These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may
know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.



(13) The conclusion of the epistle, in which he shows first of all, that even they who already believe,
need this doctrine, that they may grow more and more in faith: that is to say, that they may be daily
more and more certain of their salvation in Christ, through faith.
#BCV:1 John 5:14
<h3><verse=1 John 5:14>1 John 5:14</verse></h3>




(14) And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he
heareth us:

<page=3323>(14) Because we do not yet in effect obtain that which we hope for, the apostle combines invocation
or prayer with faith, which he will have proceed from faith, and moreover to be conceived in such a
way, that nothing is asked but that which is agreeable to the will of God: and such prayers cannot be
useless.
#BCV:1 John 5:16
<h3><verse=1 John 5:16>1 John 5:16</verse></h3>




(15) If any man see his brother sin a sin [which is] not unto death, (l) he shall ask, and he shall give
him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray
for it.



(15) We have to make prayers not only for ourselves, but also for our brothers who sin, that their
sins be not to death: and yet he excepts that sin which is never forgiven, or the sin against the Holy
Spirit, that is to say, a universal and wilful falling away from the known truth of the gospel.



(l) This is as if he said, let him ask the Lord to forgive him, and he will forgive him being so asked.
#BCV:1 John 5:17
<h3><verse=1 John 5:17>1 John 5:17</verse></h3>




(16) All unrighteousness is sin: and there is a sin not unto death.



(16) The taking away of an objection: indeed all iniquity is comprehended under the name of sin:
but yet we must not despair therefore, because every sin is not deadly, and without hope of remedy.
#BCV:1 John 5:18
<h3><verse=1 John 5:18>1 John 5:18</verse></h3>




(17) We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth
himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not.



(17) A reason why not all, or rather why no sin is mortal to some: that is, because they are born of
God, that is to say, made the sons of God in Christ, and being ended with his Spirit, they do not
serve sin, nor are they mortally wounded by Satan.
#BCV:1 John 5:19
<h3><verse=1 John 5:19>1 John 5:19</verse></h3>




(18) [And] we know that we are of God, and the whole world lieth in wickedness.



(18) Every man must particularly apply to himself the general promises, that we may certainly
persuade ourselves, that whereas all the world is by nature lost, we are freely made the sons of God,
by the sending of Jesus Christ his son to us, of whom we are enlightened with the knowledge of the
true God and everlasting life.
#BCV:1 John 5:20
<h3><verse=1 John 5:20>1 John 5:20</verse></h3>

<page=3324>And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know
him that is true, and we are in him that is true, [even] in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true (m)
God, and eternal life.



(m) The divinity of Christ is most clearly proved by this passage.
#BCV:1 John 5:21
<h3><verse=1 John 5:21>1 John 5:21</verse></h3>




(19) Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen.



(19) He expresses a plain precept of taking heed of idols: which he contrasts with the only true God,
that with this seal he might seal up all the former doctrine.

<h1>2 John</h1>


<h2>2 John 1</h2>

#BCV:2 John 1:1
<h3><verse=2 John 1:1>2 John 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=3325>The elder unto the (a) elect (b) lady and her children, (1) whom I love in the truth; and not I only,
but also all they that have known the truth;



(a) This is not a proper name, but is to be taken as it sounds that is to say, the worthy and noble lady.



(b) Excellent and honourable woman. (1) The bond of Christian union is the true and constant
profession of the truth.
#BCV:2 John 1:3
<h3><verse=2 John 1:3>2 John 1:3</verse></h3>



Grace be with you, mercy, [and] peace, from God the Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ, the
Son of the Father, in



(c) truth and love.



(c) With true knowledge which always has love united with it, and following it.
#BCV:2 John 1:4
<h3><verse=2 John 1:4>2 John 1:4</verse></h3>




(2) I rejoiced greatly that I found of thy children walking in (d) truth, as we have received a
commandment from the Father.



(2) This true profession consists both in love towards one another which the Lord has commanded,
and also especially in wholesome and sound doctrine, which also is delivered to us: for the
commandment of God is a sound and sure foundation both of the rule of conduct and of doctrine,
and these cannot be separated from one another,



(d) According as the truth directs them.
#BCV:2 John 1:7
<h3><verse=2 John 1:7>2 John 1:7</verse></h3>




(3) For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the
flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist.



(3) Antichrists fighting against the person and office of Christ had already crept into the Church, in
the time of the apostles.

#BCV:2 John 1:8
<h3><verse=2 John 1:8>2 John 1:8</verse></h3>


(4) (e) Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive
a full reward.



(4) He that makes shipwreck of doctrine, loses all.



(e) Beware, and take good heed.
#BCV:2 John 1:10
<h3><verse=2 John 1:10>2 John 1:10</verse></h3>




(5) If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into [your] house,
neither bid him God speed:



(5) We should have nothing to do with those who defend perverse doctrine.

<h1>3 John</h1>


<h2>3 John 1</h2>

#BCV:3 John 1:1
<h3><verse=3 John 1:1>3 John 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=3327>The (1) elder unto the wellbeloved Gaius, whom I love in the truth.



(1) An example of a Christian greeting.
#BCV:3 John 1:4
<h3><verse=3 John 1:4>3 John 1:4</verse></h3>



I have no greater joy than (a) to hear that my children walk in truth.



(a) Than these joys.
#BCV:3 John 1:5
<h3><verse=3 John 1:5>3 John 1:5</verse></h3>



Beloved, thou doest (b) faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers;



(b) As becomes a believer and a Christian.
#BCV:3 John 1:6
<h3><verse=3 John 1:6>3 John 1:6</verse></h3>



Which have borne witness of thy charity before the church: whom if thou (c) bring forward on their
journey after a godly sort, thou shalt do well:



(c) He commends to Gaius, either those same men whom he had entertained before returning to
him, about the affairs of the Church, or else some other who had similar business.
#BCV:3 John 1:8
<h3><verse=3 John 1:8>3 John 1:8</verse></h3>



We therefore ought to receive such, that we might be (d) fellowhelpers to the truth.



(d) That we ourselves may help the preaching of the truth.
#BCV:3 John 1:9
<h3><verse=3 John 1:9>3 John 1:9</verse></h3>




(2) I wrote unto the church: but Diotrephes, who loveth to have the preeminence among them,
receiveth us not.



(2) Ambition and covetousness, two pestilent sins (especially in those who have any church
responsibilities) are condemned in Diotrephes.
#BCV:3 John 1:11
<h3><verse=3 John 1:11>3 John 1:11</verse></h3>

<page=3328>Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he
that doeth evil hath not (e) seen God.



(e) Has not known God.

<h1>Jude</h1>


<h2>Jude 1</h2>

#BCV:Jude 1:1
<h3><verse=Jude 1:1>Jude 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=3329>Jude, the servant of Jesus Christ, and (a) brother of James, to them that are sanctified (b) by God
the Father, and preserved in Jesus Christ, [and] called:



(a) This is to distinguish between him and Judas Iscariot.



(b) By God the Father.
#BCV:Jude 1:3
<h3><verse=Jude 1:3>Jude 1:3</verse></h3>




(1) Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the (d) common salvation, it was needful
for me to write unto you, and exhort [you] that ye should (e) earnestly contend for the faith which
was (f) once delivered unto the saints.



(1) The goal of this epistle, is to affirm the godly as opposed to certain wicked men both in true
doctrine and good conduct.



(d) Of those things that pertain to the salvation of all of us.



(e) That you should defend the faith with all the strength you can muster, both by true doctrine and
good example of life.



(f) Which was once given, that it may never be changed.
#BCV:Jude 1:4
<h3><verse=Jude 1:4>Jude 1:4</verse></h3>




(2) For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this
condemnation, (3) ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the
only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.



(2) It is by God's providence and not by chance, that many wicked men creep into the Church. (3)
He condemns this first in them, that they take opportunity or occasion to wax wanton, by the grace
of God: which cannot be, but the chief empire of Christ must be cancelled, in that such men give
themselves up to Satan, whom they call Libertines.
#BCV:Jude 1:5
<h3><verse=Jude 1:5>Jude 1:5</verse></h3>




(4) I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having
saved the people out of the land of Egypt, afterward destroyed them that believed not.

<page=3330>(4) He presents the horrible punishment of those who have abused the grace of God to follow their
own lusts.
#BCV:Jude 1:6
<h3><verse=Jude 1:6>Jude 1:6</verse></h3>




(5) And the angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in
everlasting chains under darkness unto the judgment of the great day.



(5) The fall of the angels was most severely punished, how much more then will the Lord punish
wicked and faithless men?
#BCV:Jude 1:7
<h3><verse=Jude 1:7>Jude 1:7</verse></h3>



Even as Sodom and Gomorrha, and the cities about them in like manner, (g) giving themselves over
to fornication, and going after (h) strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the
vengeance of eternal fire.



(g) Following the steps of Sodom and Gomorrah.



(h) Thus he sets forth their horrible and wicked perversions.
#BCV:Jude 1:8
<h3><verse=Jude 1:8>Jude 1:8</verse></h3>



Likewise also these (i) [filthy] dreamers defile the flesh, (6) despise (k) dominion, and speak evil of
dignities.



(i) Who are so stupid and void of reason as if all their fears and wits were asleep. (6) Another most
destructive doctrine of theirs, in that they take away the authority of the government and slander
them.



(k) It is a greater matter to despise government than the governors, that is to say, the matter itself
than the persons.
#BCV:Jude 1:9
<h3><verse=Jude 1:9>Jude 1:9</verse></h3>




(7) Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses,
durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.



(7) An argument of comparison: Michael one of the chiefest angels, was content to deliver Satan,
although a most accursed enemy, to the judgment of God to be punished: and these perverse men
are not ashamed to speak evil of the powers who are ordained of God.
#BCV:Jude 1:10
<h3><verse=Jude 1:10>Jude 1:10</verse></h3>


<page=3331>(8) But these speak evil of those things which they know not: but what they know naturally, as brute
beasts, in those things they corrupt themselves.



(8) The conclusion: These men are doubly at fault, that is, both for their rash folly in condemning
some, and for their impudent and shameless contempt of that knowledge, which when they had
gotten, yet nonetheless they lived as brute beasts, serving their bellies.
#BCV:Jude 1:11
<h3><verse=Jude 1:11>Jude 1:11</verse></h3>




(9) Woe unto them! for they have gone in the way of Cain, and ran greedily after the error of
Balaam for reward, and perished in the gainsaying of Core.



(9) He foretells their destruction, because they resemble or proclaim Cain's shameless malice,
Balaam's filthy covetousness, and to be short, Core's seditious and ambitious head.
#BCV:Jude 1:12
<h3><verse=Jude 1:12>Jude 1:12</verse></h3>




(10) These are spots in your (l) feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves
without (m) fear: clouds [they are] without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth,
without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;



(10) He rebukes most sharply with many other notes and marks, both their dishonesty or filthiness,
and their sauciness, but especially, their vain bravery of words and vain pride, joining with it a grave
and heavy threatening from an ancient prophecy of Enoch concerning the judgment to come.



(l) The feasts of charity were certain banquets, which the brethren who were members of the
Church kept altogether, as Tertullian sets them forth in his apology, chap. 39.



(m) Impudently, without all reverence either to God or man.
#BCV:Jude 1:13
<h3><verse=Jude 1:13>Jude 1:13</verse></h3>



Raging waves of the sea, foaming out their own shame; wandering stars, to whom is reserved the (n)
blackness of darkness for ever.



(n) Most gross darkness.
#BCV:Jude 1:14
<h3><verse=Jude 1:14>Jude 1:14</verse></h3>



And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam, prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord (o) cometh
with ten thousands of his saints,



(o) The present time, for the time to come.
#BCV:Jude 1:17
<h3><verse=Jude 1:17>Jude 1:17</verse></h3>


(11) But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord
Jesus Christ;



(11) The rising up of such monsters was spoken of before, that we should not be troubled at the
newness of the matter.
#BCV:Jude 1:19
<h3><verse=Jude 1:19>Jude 1:19</verse></h3>




(12) These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit.



(12) It is the habit of antichrists to separate themselves from the godly, because they are not
governed by the Spirit of God: and contrariwise it is the habit of Christians to edify one another
through godly prayers, both in faith and also in love, until the mercy of Christ appears to their full
salvation.
#BCV:Jude 1:22
<h3><verse=Jude 1:22>Jude 1:22</verse></h3>




(13) And of some have compassion, making a difference:



(13) Among those who wander and go astray, the godly have to use this choice, that they handle
some of them gently, and that others being even in the very flame, they endeavour to save with
severe and sharp instruction of the present danger: yet so, that they do in such sort abhor the
wicked and dishonest, that they avoid even the least thought of them.
#BCV:Jude 1:23
<h3><verse=Jude 1:23>Jude 1:23</verse></h3>



And others save with (p) fear, pulling [them] out of the fire; hating even the (q) garment spotted by
the flesh.



(p) By fearing them and holding them back with godly severity.



(q) An amplification, taken from the forbidden things of the law which did defile.
#BCV:Jude 1:24
<h3><verse=Jude 1:24>Jude 1:24</verse></h3>

(14) Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present [you] faultless before the
presence of his glory with exceeding joy,

(14) He commends them to the grace of God, declaring sufficiently that it is God only that can give
us that constancy which he requires of us.

<h1>Revelation</h1>

<h2>Revelation 1</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 1:1
<h3><verse=Revelation 1:1>Revelation 1:1</verse></h3>

<page=3333>The (1) (a) Revelation of (b) Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants
things which must shortly come to pass; and he sent and signified [it] by his angel unto his servant
John:

1 AD The dragon watches the Church of the Jews, which was ready to travail: She brings forth, flees
and hides herself, while Christ was yet on the earth.

34 AD The dragon persecutes Christ ascending to heaven, he fights and is thrown down: and after
persecutes the Church of the Jews.

67 AD The Church of the Jews is received into the wilderness for three years and a half.

70 AD When the Church of the Jews was overthrown, the dragon invaded the catholic church: all
this is in the twelfth chapter. The dragon is bound for a thousand years in chapter twenty. The
dragon raises up the beast with seven heads, and the beast with two heads, which make havock of
the catholic church and her prophets for 1260 years after the passion of Christ in (<bcv=Rev 13:11>Rev 13:11</bcv>).

97 AD The seven churches are admonished of things present, somewhat before the end of
Domitian his reign, and are forewarned of the persecution to come under Trajan for ten years,
chapter 2,3. God by word and signs provokes the world, and seals the godly in chapter 6 and 7. He
shows examples of his wrath on all creatures, mankind excepted in chapter 8.

1073 AD The dragon is let loose after a thousand years, and Gregory the seventh, being Pope, rages
against Henry the third, then Emperor in chapter 20.

1217 AD The dragon vexes the world for 150 years to Gregory the ninth, who wrote the Decretals,
and most cruelly persecuted the Emperor Fredrick the second.

1295 AD The dragon kills the prophets after 1260 years, when Boniface the eighth was Pope, who
was the author of the sixth book of the Decretals: he excommunicated Philip the French King.

1300 AD Boniface celebrates the Jubile.

1301 AD About this time was a great earthquake, which overthrew many houses in Rome.

1305 AD Prophecy ceases for three years and a half, until Benedict the second succeeded after
Boniface the eighth. Prophecy is revived in chapter 11. The dragon and the two beasts question
prophecy in chapter 13. Christ defends his Church in word and deed, chapter 14, and with threats
and arms, chapter 16. Christ gives his Church victory over the harlot, chapter 17 and 18. Over the
<page=3334>two beasts, chapter 19. Over the dragon and death, chapter 20. The Church is fully glorified in
heaven with eternal glory, in Christ Jesus, chapter 21 and 22.

(1) This chapter has two principal parts, the title or inscription, which stands in place of an
introduction: and a narration going before the whole prophecy of this book. The inscription is
double, general and particular. In (<bcv=Rev 1:1>Rev 1:1</bcv>) the general inscription contains the kind of prophecy, the
author, end, matter, instruments, and manner of communication the same, in (<bcv=Rev 1:2>Rev 1:2</bcv>) the most
religious faithfulness of the apostle as public witness and the use of communicating the same, taken
from the promise of God, and from the circumstance of the time, (<bcv=Rev 1:3>Rev 1:3</bcv>)

(a) An opening of secret and hidden things.

(b) Which the Son opened to us out of his Father's bosom by angels.

#BCV:Revelation 1:2
<h3><verse=Revelation 1:2>Revelation 1:2</verse></h3>

(2) John to the seven churches which are in Asia: Grace [be] unto you, and peace, (3) from him (c)
which is, and which was, and which is to come; and from (4) the (d) seven Spirits which are before
his throne;

(2) This is the particular or singular inscription, in which salutation is written to certain churches by
name, who represent the catholic church: and the certainty and truth of this is declared, from the
author of it, in (<bcv=Rev 1:8>Rev 1:8</bcv>). (3) That is, from God the Father, eternal, immortal, immutable: wholly
unchangeable, John declares in a form of speech which is undeclined. For there is no incongruity in
this place, where, of necessity the words must be adapted to the mystery, not the mystery corrupted
or impaired by the words.

(c) These three, Is, Was, and Shall be, signify the word Jehovah, which is the proper name for God.

#BCV:Revelation 1:4
<h3><verse=Revelation 1:4>Revelation 1:4</verse></h3>

(4) That is, from the Holy Spirit who proceeds from the Father and the Son. This Spirit is one in
person according to his subsistence: but in communication of his power, and in demonstration of
his divine works in those seven churches, perfectly manifests himself as if there were many spirits,
every one perfectly working in his own church. Which is why in (<bcv=Rev 5:6>Rev 5:6</bcv>) they are called the seven
horns and seven eyes of the Lamb, as if to say, as his most absolute power and wisdom. In (<bcv=Rev 3:1>Rev 3:1</bcv>)
Christ is said to have those seven spirits of God, and in (<bcv=Rev 4:5>Rev 4:5</bcv>) it is said that seven lamps burn
before his throne, which also are those seven spirits of God. That this place ought to be so
understood, it is thus proved. For first, grace and peace is asked by prayer from this Spirit, which is a
divine work, and an action incommunicable in respect to God. Secondly, he is placed between the
Father and the Son, as set in the same degree of dignity and operation with them, besides, he is
before the throne, as of the same substance with the Father and the Son: as the seven eyes and
seven horns of the Lamb. Moreover, these spirits are never said to adore God, as all other things are.
Finally, this is the power by which the Lamb opened the book, and loosed the seven seals of it,
when no one could be found among all creatures by whom the book might be opened (<bcv=Rev 5:1-10>Rev 5:1-10</bcv>);
Of these things long ago Master John Luide of Oxford wrote to me. Now the Holy Spirit is named
before Christ because a long speech about Christ follows.

<page=3335>(d) These are the seven spirits, which are later called the horns and eyes of the Lamb in (Rev 5:6) and
are now acting as a guard waiting on God.

#BCV:Revelation 1:4-5
<h3><verse=Revelation 1:5>Revelation 1:5</verse></h3>

And from Jesus Christ, (5) [who is] the faithful witness, [and] the first begotten of the dead, and the
prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own
blood,

(5) A most ample and honourable commendation of Christ, first from his offices of the priesthood
and kingdom: secondly from his benefits, as his love toward us, and washing us with his blood, in
this verse, and communication of his kingdom and priesthood with us: thirdly, from his eternal glory
and power, which is always to be celebrated by us; (<bcv=Rev 1:6>Rev 1:6</bcv>) Finally, from the accomplishment of all
things once to be effected by him, at his second coming, at which time he shall openly destroy the
wicked, and comfort the godly in the truth; (<bcv=Rev 1:7>Rev 1:7</bcv>).

Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every (e) eye shall see him, and they [also] which pierced him:
and all kindreds of the earth shall wail because of him. Even so, Amen.

(e) All men.

#BCV:Revelation 1:6
<h3><verse=Revelation 1:6>Revelation 1:6</verse></h3>

(6) I am (f) Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was,
and which is to come, the Almighty.

(6) A confirmation of the greeting earlier, taken from the words of God himself: in which he
affirms his operation in every single creature, the immutable eternity that is in himself, and his
omnipotence in all things: and concludes in the unity of his own essence, that Trinity of persons
which was spoken of before.

(f) I am he before whom there was nothing, indeed, by whom everything that is made, was made:
and I shall remain though everything else should perish.

#BCV:Revelation 1:7
<h3><verse=Revelation 1:7>Revelation 1:7</verse></h3>

(7) I John, who also am your brother, and companion in tribulation, and in the kingdom and
patience of Jesus Christ, was in the isle that is (g) called Patmos, for the word of God, and for the
testimony of Jesus Christ.

(7) The narration, opening the way to the declaring of the authority and calling of John the
evangelist in this singular revelation, and to procure faith and credit to this prophecy. This is the
<page=3336>second part of this chapter, consisting of a proposition, and an exposition. The proposition shows,
in (<bcv=Rev 1:9>Rev 1:9</bcv>) first who was called to this revelation, in what place, and how occupied. Then at what
time, and by what means, namely, by the Spirit and the word, and that on the Lord's day, which ever
since the resurrection of Christ, was consecrated for Christians: that is to say, to be a day of rest, as
in (<bcv=Rev 1:10>Rev 1:10</bcv>) Thirdly, who is the author that calls him, and what is the sum of his calling.

(g) Patmos is one of the islands of Sporas, where John was banished according to some historians.

I was in the (h) Spirit on the (i) Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet,

(h) This is a holy trance expressed, with which the prophets were entranced, and being carried out
of the world, conversed with God: and so Ezekiel says often, that he was carried from place to place
by the Spirit, and that the Spirit of the Lord came on him.

(i) He calls it the Lord's day, which Paul calls the first day of the week; (<bcv=1Co 16:2>Co1 16:2</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 1:8-9
<h3><verse=Revelation 1:8>Revelation 1:8</verse></h3>

(8) And I turned to (k) see the voice that spake with me. (9) And being turned, I saw seven golden
candlesticks;

(8) The exposition, declaring the third and last point of the proposition (for the other points are
evident of themselves) in which is he first speaks of the author of his calling (till verse 17), and
secondly, of the calling itself (<bcv=Rev 1:17-20>Rev 1:17-20</bcv>). First of all the occasion is noted in this verse, in that
John turned himself towards the vision, and after he sets down the description of the author, in the
following verses, (<bcv=Rev 1:13-16>Rev 1:13-16</bcv>).

(k) To see him whose voice I had heard. (9) The description of the Author, who is Christ: by the
candlesticks that stand about him, that is, the churches that stand before him, and depend upon his
direction. In (<bcv=Rev 1:13>Rev 1:13</bcv>) he is described by his properties, that he is provided with wisdom and
dexterity for the achieving of great things, and in (<bcv=Rev 1:14>Rev 1:14</bcv>) with ancient gravity and most excellent
sight of the eye. In (<bcv=Rev 1:15>Rev 1:15</bcv>) he is described with strength invincible and with a mighty word, and in
(<bcv=Rev 1:16>Rev 1:16</bcv>) by his ruling of the ministry of his servants in the Church by the sword of his word, and
enlightening all things with his countenance, and mightily providing for everyone by his divine
providence.

#BCV:Revelation 1:10-12
<h3><verse=Revelation 1:10>Revelation 1:10</verse></h3>

(10) And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. (11) And he laid his right hand upon me, saying
unto me, Fear not; (12) I am the first and the last:

<page=3337>(10) A religious fear, that goes before the calling of the saints, and their full confirmation to take on
them the vocation of God.

(11) A divine confirmation of this calling, partly by sign, and partly by word of power.

(12) A most elegant description of this calling contained in three things, which are necessary to a
just vocation: first the authority of him who calls, for he is the beginning and end of all things, in
this verse, for he is eternal and omnipotent (<bcv=Rev 1:8>Rev 1:8</bcv>). Secondly the sum of his prophetic calling and
revelation (<bcv=Rev 1:9>Rev 1:9</bcv>). Lastly a declaration of those persons to whom this prophecy is by the
commandment of God directed in the description of it (<bcv=Rev 1:20>Rev 1:20</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 1:13
<h3><verse=Revelation 1:13>Revelation 1:13</verse></h3>

(13) Write the things which thou hast seen, and the things which are, and the things which shall be
hereafter;

(13) The sum of this prophecy, that the apostle must write whatever he sees, adding nothing, nor
taking away anything (<bcv=Rev 1:2>Rev 1:2</bcv>). Here there are two parts: one is a narration of those things which are,
that is, which then were at that time, contained in the second and third chapter: the other part is of
those things which were to come, contained in the rest of this book.

#BCV:Revelation 1:14
<h3><verse=Revelation 1:14>Revelation 1:14</verse></h3>

(14) The mystery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden
candlesticks. The seven stars are the (l) angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks
which thou sawest are the seven churches.

(14) That is, the thing which was mystical signified by the particulars of the vision before going.

(l) By angels he means the ministers of the Church.

<h2>Revelation 2</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 2:1-2
<h3><verse=Revelation 2:1>Revelation 2:1</verse></h3>

<page=3338>Unto (1) the angel of the church of Ephesus write; (2) These things saith he that holdeth the seven
stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks;

(1) The former part of this book is comprised in a narration of those things which then were, as
John taught us, in (<bcv=Rev 1:19>Rev 1:19</bcv>) it belongs wholly to instruction, and in these two next chapters, contains
seven places, according to the number and condition of those churches which were named before in
(<bcv=Rev 1:11>Rev 1:11</bcv>) shown in (<bcv=Rev 1:12>Rev 1:12</bcv>) and distributed most aptly into their pastors and flocks, (<bcv=Rev 1:10>Rev 1:10</bcv>)
which verse of that chapter is a passage to the first part. Every one of these seven passages has
three principal parts, an introduction taken from the person of the reprehension of that which is
evil: an instruction, containing either an exhortation alone, or a dissuasion opposite to it, and a
conclusion stirring to attention, by divine promises. This first passage is to the pastors of the church
of Ephesus. (2) The introduction in which are contained the special prayers of Christ Jesus the
author of this prophecy out of (<bcv=Rev 1:6>Rev 1:6</bcv>,<bcv=Rev 1:13> Rev 1:13</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 2:3
<h3><verse=Revelation 2:3>Revelation 2:3</verse></h3>

(3) I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are
evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars:

(3) The proposition first condemning the pastor of this church (<bcv=Rev 2:2>Rev 2:2</bcv>,<bcv=Revelation 2:3>3</bcv>) then reproving him (Rev
2:4) after informing him, and threatening that he will move the church to another place (<bcv=Rev 2:5>Rev 2:5</bcv>).
This threat of divine vengeance Christ mitigates by a type of correction, calling to mind the
particular virtue and piety of the Church, which God never leaves without recompense (<bcv=Rev 2:6>Rev 2:6</bcv>).
Concerning the Nicolaitans, see (<bcv=Rev 2:15>Rev 2:15</bcv>).

Nevertheless I have [somewhat] (a) against thee, because thou hast left thy first love.

(a) To deal with you for.

#BCV:Revelation 2:4-5
<h3><verse=Revelation 2:4>Revelation 2:4</verse></h3>

(4) He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh
will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in (5) the midst of the (b) paradise of God.

(4) The conclusion containing a commandment of attention, and a promise of everlasting life,
shown in a figure; (<bcv=Gen 2:9>Gen 2:9</bcv>). (5) That is, in paradise after the manner of the Hebrew phrase.

(b) Thus Christ speaks as he is mediator.

#BCV:Revelation 2:6
<h3><verse=Revelation 2:6>Revelation 2:6</verse></h3>

<page=3339>(6) And unto the angel of the church in (c) Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last,
which was dead, and is alive;

(6) The second passage is to the pastors of the church of the Smyrnians. The introduction is taken
out of (<bcv=Rev 1:17-18>Rev 1:17-18</bcv>).

(c) Smyrna was one of the cities of Ionia in Asia.

#BCV:Revelation 2:7
<h3><verse=Revelation 2:7>Revelation 2:7</verse></h3>

(7) I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and [I know] the blasphemy of
them which say they are Jews, and are not, but [are] the synagogue of Satan.

(7) The proposition of praise is in this verse, and of exhortation joined with a promise, is in (Rev
2:10).

#BCV:Revelation 2:8
<h3><verse=Revelation 2:8>Revelation 2:8</verse></h3>

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 (8) tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death,
and I will give thee a crown of life.

(8) That is, of ten years. For so commonly both in this book and in Daniel, years are signified by
days: that God by this might declare, that the space of time is appointed by him and the same very
short. Now because John wrote this book in the end of Domitian the Emperor's reign, as Justinus
and Ireneus do witness, it is altogether necessary that this should be referred to that persecution
which was done by the authority of the emperor Trajan: who began to make havock of the Christian
church in the tenth year of his reign, as the historians do write: and his bloody persecution
continued until Adrian the emperor had succeeded in his stead: The space of which time is precisely
ten years, which are here mentioned.

#BCV:Revelation 2:9-10
<h3><verse=Revelation 2:9>Revelation 2:9</verse></h3>

(9) He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh
shall not be hurt (10) of the second death.

(9) The conclusion, as in (<bcv=Rev 2:7>Rev 2:7</bcv>).

(10) See (<bcv=Rev 10:6>Rev 10:6</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 2:11
<h3><verse=Revelation 2:11>Revelation 2:11</verse></h3>

<page=3340>(11) And to the angel of the church in (d) Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the
sharp sword with two edges;

(11) The third passage is to the pastors of Pergamos. The introduction is taken from (<bcv=Rev 1:16>Rev 1:16</bcv>).

(d) Pergamos was the name of a famous city of old in Asia, where the kings of the Attalians were
always resident.

#BCV:Revelation 2:12
<h3><verse=Revelation 2:12>Revelation 2:12</verse></h3>

(12) I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, [even] where Satan's seat [is]: and thou holdest fast
my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in (e) those days wherein Antipas [was] my faithful
martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.

(12) The proposition of praise is in this verse, of reprehension in the two following, and of
exhortation joined with a conditional threat (<bcv=Rev 2:16>Rev 2:16</bcv>). Now this Antipas was the angel or minister
of the church of Pergamos, as Aretas writes.

(e) The faith of those at Pergamos is so much the more highly commended, because they remained
constant even in the very heat of persecution.

But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam,
who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to (f) eat things sacrificed
unto idols, and to commit fornication.

(f) That which is here spoken of things offered to idols, is meant of the same type which Paul
speaks of in (<bcv=1Co 10:14>Co1 10:14</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 2:12-13
<h3><verse=Revelation 2:13>Revelation 2:13</verse></h3>

So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the (13) Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.

(13) Which follow the footsteps of Balaam, and such as are abandoned to all filthiness, as he showed
in the verse before, and is here signified by a note of similarity, and thus also must (<bcv=Rev 2:6>Rev 2:6</bcv>) be
understood. For this matter especially Ireneus must be consulted as well.

#BCV:Revelation 2:14-17
<h3><verse=Revelation 2:14>Revelation 2:14</verse></h3>

(14) He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that
overcometh will I give to eat (15) of the hidden (g) manna, and will give him a (h) (16) white stone,
and in the stone a new (17) name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth [it].

(14) The conclusion, by way of exhortation as before, and of promise.

<page=3341>(15) The bread of life, invisible, spiritual, and heavenly, which is kept secretly with God, from before
all eternity.

(g) He alludes to (<bcv=Psa 105:40>Psa 105:40</bcv>; <bcv=John 6:26-59>Joh. 6:26-59).</bcv>

(h) Arethas writes that such a stone was given to wrestlers at games, or else that such stones did in
old time witness the leaving of a man.

(16) Which is a sign and witness of forgiveness and remission of sins, of righteousness and true
holiness, and of purity uncorrupted after the sin nature is destroyed.

(17) A sign and testimony of newness of life in righteousness and true holiness, by putting on the
new man, whom no one inwardly knows, but the spirit of man which is in him, which is not praised
by men, but by God; (<bcv=Rom 2:28>Rom 2:28</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 2:17-18
<h3><verse=Revelation 2:18>Revelation 2:18</verse></h3>

And unto (18) the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who
hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet [are] like fine brass;

(18) The fourth passage is to the pastors of Thyatira. The introduction is taken from (<bcv=Rev 1:14-15>Rev 1:14-15</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 2:18-19
<h3><verse=Revelation 2:19>Revelation 2:19</verse></h3>

I know (19) thy works, and charity, and (i) service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the
last [to be] more than the first.

(19) The note of praise is in this verse, and in (<bcv=Rev 2:20>Rev 2:20</bcv>) reprehension, for they tolerated with them
the doctrine of unrighteousness and ungodliness. In (<bcv=Rev 2:21>Rev 2:21</bcv>), though they were called back to God,
they did not repent. To this he adds even stronger threats and in (<bcv=Rev 3:2-5>Rev 3:2-5</bcv>) he gives a conditional
promise and an exhortation to hold fast the truth

(i) So he calls those offices of charity which are done to the saints.

Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which
calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit (k) fornication, and to eat
things sacrificed unto idols.

(k) Often in the scripture, by fornication they mean idolatry.

<page=3342>But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have
not known the (l) depths of Satan, as they speak; I will (m) put upon you none other burden.

(l) He points out the bragging of certain men, who boasted of their deep, that is, plentiful and
common knowledge, which nonetheless is devilish.

(m) I will speak no worse thing against you, being content to have showed you what I require to be
in you.

#BCV:Revelation 2:20-21
<h3><verse=Revelation 2:20>Revelation 2:20</verse></h3>

(20) And he that overcometh, and keepeth my works unto the end, to him will I give (21) power over
the nations:

(20) The conclusion, in which Christ assures to his servants the communion of his kingdom and
glory, in this verse, and that following: and commands a holy attention in the last verse (<bcv=Rev 2:29>Rev 2:29</bcv>).

(21) That is, I will make him a king, by communion with me, and my fellow heir, as it is promised;

(<bcv=Mat 19:28>Mat 19:28</bcv>,<bcv=Mat 25:34> Mat 25:34</bcv>) (<bcv=Rom 8:17>Rom 8:17</bcv>; <bcv=1Co 6:3>Co1 6:3</bcv>; <bcv=Eph 2:6>Eph 2:6</bcv>; <bcv=2Ti 2:12>Ti2 2:12</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 2:22
<h3><verse=Revelation 2:22>Revelation 2:22</verse></h3>

(22) And he shall rule them with a rod of iron; as the vessels of a potter shall they be broken to
shivers: even as I received of my Father.

(22) The brightness of greatest glory and honour nearest approaching to the light of Christ, who is
the Son of righteousness, and our head; (<bcv=Mat 4:14>Mat 4:14</bcv>,<bcv=Mat 4:16> Mat 4:16</bcv>).

<h2>Revelation 3</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 3:1
<h3><verse=Revelation 3:1>Revelation 3:1</verse></h3>

<page=3343>And unto the angel of the church in (a) Sardis (1) write; These things saith he that hath the seven
Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a (b) name that thou livest, and
art dead.

(a) Sardis is the name of a most flourishing and famous city, where the kings of Lydia kept their
courts. (1) The fifth passage is to the pastors of Sardis. The introduction is taken from (<bcv=Rev 1:4>Rev 1:4</bcv>, Rev 1:16).

(b) You are said to live, but are dead indeed.

Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are (c) ready to die: for I have not found
thy works perfect before God.

(c) Other things, whose state is such, that they are now going, and unless they are confirmed, will
perish without delay.

#BCV:Revelation 3:2-4
<h3><verse=Revelation 3:3>Revelation 3:3</verse></h3>

Thou hast a few names even in Sardis (3) which have not defiled their garments; and they shall walk
with me in (4) white: for they are (d) worthy.

(3) That is, who have with all religion guarded themselves from sin and moral corruption, even from
the very show of evil; (<bcv=Jude 1:23>Jde 1:23</bcv>). (4) Pure from all spot, and shining with glory. So it is to be
understood always hereafter, as in (<bcv=Rev 3:5>Rev 3:5</bcv>).

(d) They are suitable and proper, that is, because they are justified in Christ, as they have truly
showed it: for he who acts righteously is righteous in the same way that a tree bears good fruit; (Rom
8:18).

#BCV:Revelation 3:6
<h3><verse=Revelation 3:6>Revelation 3:6</verse></h3>

(6) And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is
true, he that hath the (e) key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no
man openeth;

(6) The sixth passage is to the pastors of Philadelphia. The introduction is taken from (<bcv=Rev 1:18>Rev 1:18</bcv>).

(e) All power of rule in commanding and forbidding, in delivering and punishing. The house of
David is the Church, and the continual promise of David's kingdom belongs to Christ.

#BCV:Revelation 3:7-8
<h3><verse=Revelation 3:7>Revelation 3:7</verse></h3>

<page=3344>(7) I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou
hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.

(7) The note of praise is in this verse of promises, and (<bcv=Rev 3:9>Rev 3:9</bcv>) to bring home again them that
wander, in (<bcv=Rev 3:10>Rev 3:10</bcv>) to preserve the godly and in (<bcv=Rev 3:11>Rev 3:11</bcv>) to exhort.

Behold, I will make them (f) of the synagogue of Satan, which say they are Jews, and are not, but do
lie; behold, I will make them to come (8) and worship before thy feet, and to know that I have loved
thee.

(f) I will bring them to that case. (8) That is, fall down and worship either you civilly, or Christ
religiously at thy feet (this is how I would rather take it) whether here in the Church (which seems
more proper to the argument here) or there in the world to come, for Christ shall truly fulfil his
word.

Because thou hast (g) kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of
temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

(g) Because you have been patient and constant, as I would have my servants be.

#BCV:Revelation 3:9-10
<h3><verse=Revelation 3:9>Revelation 3:9</verse></h3>

(9) Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out:

(10) and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, [which is]
new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and [I will write upon him] my
new name.

(9) The conclusion which contains a promise, and a commandment.

(10) That is, the new man shall be called after his father, mother, and his head Christ.

#BCV:Revelation 3:11
<h3><verse=Revelation 3:11>Revelation 3:11</verse></h3>

(11) And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the (h) Amen, the
faithful and true witness, the (i) beginning of the creation of God;

(11) The seventh passage is to the pastors of the Church of Laodicea. The introduction is taken out
of (<bcv=Rev 1:5>Rev 1:5</bcv>).

<page=3345>(h) Amen sounds as much in the Hebrew tongue, as truly, or truth itself.

(i) Of who all things that are made, have their beginning.

#BCV:Revelation 3:12-14
<h3><verse=Revelation 3:12>Revelation 3:12</verse></h3>

(12) I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot.

(12) The proposition of reproof is in this verse, and in (<bcv=Rev 3:16>Rev 3:16</bcv>) a threat while in (<bcv=Rev 3:17>Rev 3:17</bcv>) a
confirmation declares the same. To faith and repentance in (<bcv=Rev 3:18-19>Rev 3:18-19</bcv>) a conditional promise is added in (<bcv=Rev 3:20>Rev 3:20</bcv>).

Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest
not that thou art wretched, and miserable, (13) and poor, and blind, and naked:

(13) The spiritual misery of men is metaphorically expressed in three points which are matched as
corresponds to those remedies offered in (<bcv=Rev 3:18>Rev 3:18</bcv>).

As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be (k) zealous therefore, and repent.

(k) Zeal is set against those who are neither hot nor cold.

Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: (14) if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will
come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.

(14) This must be taken after the manner of an allegory; (<bcv=John 14:23>Joh 14:23</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 3:15
<h3><verse=Revelation 3:15>Revelation 3:15</verse></h3>

(15) To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and
am set down with my Father in his throne.

(15) The conclusion, consisting of a promise, as in (<bcv=Rev 2:26>Rev 2:26</bcv>) and of an exhortation.

<h2>Revelation 4</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 4:1
<h3><verse=Revelation 4:1>Revelation 4:1</verse></h3>

<page=3346>After (1) this I looked, and, behold, a door [was] opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard
[was] as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee
things which must be hereafter.

(1) Hereafter follows the second part of this book, altogether prophetical foretelling those things
which were to come, as was said in (<bcv=Rev 1:19>Rev 1:19</bcv>). This is divided into two histories: one common to the
whole world, till Chapter 9 and another unique to the Church of God, till Chapter 22. These
histories are said to be described in several books (<bcv=Rev 5:1>Rev 5:1</bcv>,<bcv=Rev 10:2> Rev 10:2</bcv>). Now this verse is a passage
from the former part to this second: where it is said, that heaven was opened, that is, that heavenly
things were unlocked and that a trumpet sounded in heaven, to stir up the apostle, and call him to
the understanding of things to come. The first history has two parts: one the causes of things done
and of this whole revelation in this next chapter, another of the acts done in the next four chapters.
The principal causes according to the economy or dispensation of it, are two: One the beginning,
which none can approach, that is, God the Father, of whom is spoken in this chapter. The other, the
Son, who is the secondary cause, easy to be approached, in that he is God and man in one person; (<bcv=Rev 5:5-9>Rev 5:5-9</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 4:2-3
<h3><verse=Revelation 4:2>Revelation 4:2</verse></h3>

And (2) immediately I was (a) in the spirit: (3) and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and [one] sat
on the throne.

(2) The manner of revelation:

(a) See (<bcv=Rev 1:10>Rev 1:10</bcv>). (3) A description of God the Father, and of his glory in the heavens, explained to
men by his office, nature, attending company, effect, instruments and events that follow afterwards.
In this verse he is presented in office as a judge as Abraham said; (<bcv=Gen 18:25>Gen 18:25</bcv>) which is declared by
his throne as sign of judgment, and his sitting on it.

#BCV:Revelation 4:4
<h3><verse=Revelation 4:4>Revelation 4:4</verse></h3>

(4) And he that sat was to look upon like a jasper and a sardine stone: and [there was] a rainbow
round about the throne, in sight like unto an emerald.

(4) By his nature, in that he is the Father, most glorious in his own person, and with his glory
outshining all other things.

#BCV:Revelation 4:5
<h3><verse=Revelation 4:5>Revelation 4:5</verse></h3>

<page=3347>(5) And round about the throne [were] four and twenty seats: and upon the seats I saw four and
twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.

(5) By the company attending about him in that, as that most high Judge, he is accompanied with the
most honourable attendance of prophets and apostles both of the old and new Church, whom
Christ has made to be priests and kings; (<bcv=Rev 1:6>Rev 1:6</bcv>,<bcv=Rev 5:10> Rev 5:10</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 4:6
<h3><verse=Revelation 4:6>Revelation 4:6</verse></h3>

(6) And out of the throne proceeded lightnings and thunderings and voices: and [there were] seven
lamps of fire burning before the throne, which are the seven Spirits of God.

(6) By effects, in that most mightily he speaks all things by his voice and word, (<bcv=Psa 29:3>Psa 29:3</bcv>) and with
the light of his Spirit and prudence peruses and passes through all.

#BCV:Revelation 4:7-8
<h3><verse=Revelation 4:7>Revelation 4:7</verse></h3>

(7) And before the throne [there was] a sea of glass like unto crystal: and in the midst of the throne,
and round about the throne, [were] four beasts full of eyes before and behind.

(7) By instruments used, in that he has both a most ready treasury and a workhouse excellently
furnished with all things, to the executing of his will, which things flow from his commandment, as
repeated in (<bcv=Rev 15:2>Rev 15:2</bcv>) and has also the angels ready administers of his counsel and pleasure to all
parts of the world, continually watching, (in this verse) working by reason otherwise than the
instruments without life last mentioned, courageous as lions, mighty as bulls, wise as men, swift as
eagles (<bcv=Rev 4:7>Rev 4:7</bcv>) most apt to all purposes as furnished with wings on every part, most piercing of
sight, and finally, pure and holy spirits always in continual motion (<bcv=Rev 4:8>Rev 4:8</bcv>).

And the (b) four beasts had each of them six wings about [him]; and [they were] full of eyes within:
and they rest not (8) day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is,
and is to come.

(b) Every beast had six wings. (8) By events, in that for all the causes before mentioned, God is
glorified both by angels, as holy, Judge, omnipotent, eternal and immutable and also after their
example he is glorified by holy men (<bcv=Rev 4:9>Rev 4:9</bcv>) in sign and speech (<bcv=Rev 4:10>Rev 4:10</bcv>).

And when those beasts (c) give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who
liveth for ever and ever,

<page=3348>(c) God is said to have glory, honour, kingdom, and such like given to him, when we godly and
reverently set forth that which is properly and only his.

#BCV:Revelation 4:9
<h3><verse=Revelation 4:9>Revelation 4:9</verse></h3>

(9) The four and twenty elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that
liveth for ever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying,

(9) Three signs of divine honour given to God, prostration or falling down, adoration and casting
their crowns before God: in which the godly, though made kings by Christ, willingly empty
themselves of all glory, moved with a religious respect for the majesty of God.

#BCV:Revelation 4:10-11
<h3><verse=Revelation 4:10>Revelation 4:10</verse></h3>

(10) Thou art worthy, O Lord, (11) to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all
things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.

(10) The sum of their speech: that all glory must be given to God: the reason, because he is the
eternal beginning of all things, from whose only will they have their being, and are governed: and
finally in all respects are that which they are.

(11) That is, that you should challenge the same to yourself alone. But as for us, we are unworthy,
that even by your goodness we should share in this glory. So far has been discussed the principal
cause unapproachable, which is God.

<h2>Revelation 5</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 5:1-3
<h3><verse=Revelation 5:1>Revelation 5:1</verse></h3>

<page=3349>And (1) I saw in the (2) right hand of him that sat on the throne (3) a book written within and on
the backside, sealed with seven seals.

(1) A passing to the second principal cause, which is the Son of God, God and man, the mediator
of all, as the eternal word of God the Father, manifest in the flesh. This chapter has two parts: one
that prepares the way to the revelation, by rehearsal of the occasions that occurred in the first four
verses (<bcv=Rev 5:2-5>Rev 5:2-5</bcv>). Another, the history of the revelation of Christ, from there to the end of the
chapter (<bcv=Rev 5:6-14>Rev 5:6-14</bcv>). (2) That is, in the very right hand of God. (3) Here are shown the occasions for
which the principal cause, and this revelation was also necessary: the same are three, the first a
present vision of the book of the counsels of God, concerning the government of this whole world,
which book is said to be laid up with the Father as it were in his hand: but shut up and unknown to
all creature, in this verse. The second is a religious desire of the angels of God to understand the
mysteries of this book (<bcv=1Pe 1:12>Pe1 1:12</bcv>) (<bcv=Rev 5:2>Rev 5:2</bcv>). The third is a lamentation of John and all the godly,
moved by the same desire (<bcv=Rev 5:4>Rev 5:4</bcv>) when they saw that it was an impossible thing for any creature to
do: which is declared in (<bcv=Rev 5:3>Rev 5:3</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 5:4
<h3><verse=Revelation 5:4>Revelation 5:4</verse></h3>

(4) And no man in heaven, nor in earth, neither under the earth, was able to open the book, neither
to look thereon.

(4) Thus neither of them that are in heaven, nor of them who are in the earth. Now this counting
of parts, is sufficient to the denying of the whole; For of the creatures, one sort is in heaven, above
the earth: another in the earth, and another under the earth in the sea, as is later declared in (Rev
5:13).

#BCV:Revelation 5:5-7
<h3><verse=Revelation 5:5>Revelation 5:5</verse></h3>

(5) And one of the elders saith unto me, Weep not: behold, the (6) Lion of the tribe of Juda, the
Root of David, hath prevailed to open the book, and to loose the seven seals thereof.

(5) The second part of this chapter, in which is set down the revelation of the Son, as was said
before. This part contains first a history of the way God prepared John to understand this revelation,
in this verse. Secondly, the revelation of the Son himself, to (<bcv=Rev 5:6>Rev 5:6</bcv>,<bcv=Revelation 5:7>7</bcv>). Thirdly, the events of this
revelation in the rest of the chapter. The manner now, is here described in two parts: one from
outside him, by speech, in this verse: another within, by opening the eyes of John (which before
were shut) that he might see, in the verse following. (6) That is, most mighty and most approved
Prince: according to the use of the Hebrew speech.

<page=3350>And I beheld, and, lo, (7) in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the
elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven
Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.

(7) The sum of this revelation: Christ the mediator takes and opens the book (<bcv=Rev 5:6>Rev 5:6</bcv>,<bcv=Revelation 5:7>7</bcv>). Therefore
this revelation describes the person of Christ. The person is described this way: Christ the mediator
between God, angels and men, as the eternal word of God, and our redeemer: as the Lamb of God,
standing as slain and making intercession for us by the power and merit of his everlasting sacrifice, is
armed with the Spirit of God, that is, with the power and wisdom of God effectually to the
government of this whole world.

#BCV:Revelation 5:8
<h3><verse=Revelation 5:8>Revelation 5:8</verse></h3>

(8) And he came and took the book out of the right hand of him that sat upon the throne.

(8) The fact of Christ the Mediator: that he comes to open it. That he opened it is first expressed
(<bcv=Rev 6:1>Rev 6:1</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 5:9-12
<h3><verse=Revelation 5:9>Revelation 5:9</verse></h3>

(9) And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four [and] twenty elders fell down before
the Lamb, having every one of them (10) harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the (a)
prayers of saints.

(9) Now follows the end, the events of the revelation previously spoken of: that all the holy angels
and men sang to him: both the chief (<bcv=Rev 5:9-10>Rev 5:9-10</bcv>) and common order of angels (<bcv=Rev 5:11-12>Rev 5:11-12</bcv>) and of
all things created (<bcv=Rev 5:13>Rev 5:13</bcv>) the princes of both sorts agreeing to it, (<bcv=Rev 5:14>Rev 5:14</bcv>).

(10) The symbols or signs of praise, sweet in savour and acceptable to God;

(a) See (<bcv=Rev 8:3>Rev 8:3</bcv>).

And they sung a (b) new (11) song, saying, (12) Thou art worthy to take the book, and to open the
seals thereof: for thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred,
and tongue, and people, and nation;

(b) No common song.

(11) That is, composed according to the present matter, the Lamb having received the book as it
were with his feet and opened it with his horns, as it is said in the Song of Solomon

<page=3351>(12) The song of the nobles or princes standing by the throne, consisting of a publication of the
praise of Christ and a confirmation of the same from his blessings, both which we have received
from him (as are the suffering of his death, our redemption upon the cross by his blood, in this
verse: and our communion with him in kingdom and priesthood which long ago he has granted to
us with himself and which we hereafter hope to obtain, as our kingdom to come, in Christ, (Rev
5:10).

#BCV:Revelation 5:13-14
<h3><verse=Revelation 5:13>Revelation 5:13</verse></h3>

(13) And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and
the elders: (14) and the number of them was (c) ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of
thousands;

(13) The consent of the common order of angels, answering in melody to their princes that stood
by the throne.

(14) A finite number, but almost infinite, as in (<bcv=Dan 7:10>Dan 7:10</bcv>).

(c) This means a great number.

Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to (d) receive power, and riches, and
wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.

(d) To have all praise given to him, as to the mightest and wisest

#BCV:Revelation 5:15
<h3><verse=Revelation 5:15>Revelation 5:15</verse></h3>

(15) And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in
the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, [be]
unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.

(15) The consent of all the common multitude of the creatures.

#BCV:Revelation 5:16
<h3><verse=Revelation 5:16>Revelation 5:16</verse></h3>

(16) And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four [and] twenty elders fell down and worshipped
him that liveth for ever and ever.

(16) A confirmation of the praise given before, from the consent of the nobles, expressed in word
and signs, as once or twice before this.

<h2>Revelation 6</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 6:1
<h3><verse=Revelation 6:1>Revelation 6:1</verse></h3>

<page=3352>And (1) I saw when the Lamb opened one of the seals, and I heard, as it were the noise of thunder,
one of the four beasts saying, Come and see.

(1) This is the second part of this first history (which I said was common and of the whole world)
of the works of God in the government of all things. There are generally three parts to this: the
forewarning, the caution, and the execution of all the evils which God sends on this world, which
was scarcely postponed by him. The forewarning is set down in this chapter, the caution for
preserving the Church is in the next chapter, and the execution is described in (<bcv=Rev 8:9>Rev 8:9</bcv>) In each part
of the forewarning, there are three points: the distinct and express calling of John to prepare
himself to take knowledge of the things that are to be showed to him in the opening of the seals,
the sign, and the word expounding the sign. Though the express calling of John is used in only four
of the signs, yet the same is also to be understood in the rest that follow. The author of the
forewarnings is the Lamb as that word of the Father made the Mediator, opening the seals of the
book. The instruments are the angels in most of the visions, who explain the sign and the words of
it. Now this first verse contains an express calling of John to record the opening of the first seal.

#BCV:Revelation 6:2
<h3><verse=Revelation 6:2>Revelation 6:2</verse></h3>

And (2) I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given
unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.

(2) The first sign, joined with a declaration, is that because of the sins and horrible rebellion of the
world, God will invade the world: and first of all will suddenly, mightily, and gloriously, as if with
arrows of pestilence from a distance, beat down the same as Judge, and triumph over it as conqueror.

#BCV:Revelation 6:3
<h3><verse=Revelation 6:3>Revelation 6:3</verse></h3>

And (3) when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see.

(3) The second sign joined with words of declaration (after the express calling of John as before) is,
that God being provoked to wrath by the obstinacy and hard heartedness of the world, not
repenting for the former plague: as setting on the same at hand, will cause disputes among men, and
will destroy the inhabitants of this world, by the swords of one another.

#BCV:Revelation 6:5-6
<h3><verse=Revelation 6:5>Revelation 6:5</verse></h3>

(5) And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld,
and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand.

<page=3353>(5) The third sign with declaration is that God will destroy the world with famine, removing all food:
which is by Synecdoche comprehended in wheat, barley, wine and oil.

And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A (a) measure of wheat for a penny, (6) and
three measures of barley for a penny; and [see] thou hurt not the oil and the wine.

(a) It is here signified how little grain there was, for the word used here is a unit of measure for dry
things, about an eighth of a bushel, which was a typical daily ration given to servants. (6) I would
rather interpret and read the words this way, "And the wine and the oil you will not distribute
unjustly." In this sense likewise the wine and the oil will be sold a very little for a penny. You will not
distribute unjustly, namely, when you measure out a very little for a great price: so are the times
evident: otherwise it would be true, as the wise man says, that whoever withholds the grain will be
cursed by the people; (<bcv=Pro 11:26>Pro 11:26</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 6:7
<h3><verse=Revelation 6:7>Revelation 6:7</verse></h3>

(7) And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, Come and
see.

(7) The fourth sign joined with words of declaration is, that God will devote a quarter of the world
to death and hell, or the grave, by all those methods at once, who individually and in order he had
summoned to change their minds. To these are also added the wild and cruel beasts of the earth
(<bcv=Lev 16:22>Lev 16:22</bcv>). Thus according to his wisdom, God dispenses the treasures of his power, justly towards
all, mercifully towards the good, and with patience or longsuffering towards his enemies.

#BCV:Revelation 6:9
<h3><verse=Revelation 6:9>Revelation 6:9</verse></h3>

(9) And when he had opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of them that were slain
for the word of God, and for the testimony which they held:

(9) The sixth sign is that the holy martyrs who are under the altar, by which they are sanctified, that
is, received into the trust and teaching of Christ (into whose hands they are committed) shall cry out
for the justice of God, in a holy zeal to advance his kingdom, and not from any private disturbance
of the mind, in this and the next verse, and that God will comfort them in deed, sign and word; (Rev
6:10).

#BCV:Revelation 6:11
<h3><verse=Revelation 6:11>Revelation 6:11</verse></h3>

And (11) white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should
rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as
they [were], should be (b) fulfilled.

(b) Until their number is completed

#BCV:Revelation 6:12
<h3><verse=Revelation 6:12>Revelation 6:12</verse></h3>

(12) And I beheld when he had opened the sixth seal, and, lo, there was a great earthquake; and the
sun became black as (c) sackcloth of hair, and the moon became as blood;

(12) The sixth sign, a narration, has two parts: the sign and the event. The sign is that the earth,
heaven, and the things that are in them, for the horror of the sins of the world after those most
heavy warnings from God, and complaints of the saints shall be shaken most severely, trembling in
horrible manner, and losing their light, in this verse: things falling from heaven (<bcv=Rev 6:13>Rev 6:13</bcv>)
withdrawing themselves and fleeing from the greatness of the trouble (<bcv=Rev 6:14>Rev 6:14</bcv>). So completely do
all creatures depend on the will of God, and content themselves in his glory.

(c) So they called in old time those woven works that were of hair.

#BCV:Revelation 6:15-16
<h3><verse=Revelation 6:15>Revelation 6:15</verse></h3>

(15) And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the
mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks
of the mountains;

(15) The event of the sign before: that there is no man who will not be amazed at that worldwide
upheaval, fly away in fear and hide himself in this verse, and wish to die, because of the exceeding
horror of the wrath of God, and of the Lamb, at which before he was amazed. Now this confusion
is not on the part of the godly but of the wicked, whose portion is in this life; (<bcv=Psa 17:14>Psa 17:14</bcv>). Not that
sorrow which is according to God, which works repentance to salvation, of which a man shall never
repent him, but that worldly sorrow that brings death; (<bcv=2Co 7:9>Co2 7:9</bcv>) as their wishes declare: for this
history of the whole world, is separated from the history of the Church, as I have showed before.
See <bcv=Rev 4:1>Rev 4:1</bcv>

And said to the mountains and rocks, (16) Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth
on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb:

(16) These are words of those who despair of escape: of the cause of this despair there are two
arguments, the presence of God and the Lamb provoked to wrath against the world, in this verse:
and the awareness of their own weakness, feeling that they are not able to survive the day of the
wrath of God (<bcv=Rev 6:17>Rev 6:17</bcv>) as it is said in (<bcv=Isa 14:27>Isa 14:27</bcv>).

<h2>Revelation 7</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 7:1-2
<h3><verse=Revelation 7:1>Revelation 7:1</verse></h3>

<page=3355>And (1) after these things I saw four angels standing on the (a) four corners of the earth, holding
the four winds of the earth, that the wind should not blow on the earth, nor on the sea, (2) nor on
any tree.

(1) The second part of this section is a preventing of danger, as we distinguished before in (<bcv=Rev 6:1>Rev 6:1</bcv>)
that is, of the caution of God ahead of time to provide for his, after the example of the Israelites;

(<bcv=Exo 8:23>Exo 8:23</bcv>) the faithful are exempted from the plagues of this wicked world. This section is a dialogue
and bringing in for this whole chapter by occasion of the prediction and argument of the sixth seal.
For first harm is withheld from the elect, (<bcv=Rev 7:1-9>Rev 7:1-9</bcv>). Then thanks are given by the elect for that
cause (<bcv=Rev 7:10-12>Rev 7:10-12</bcv>). Lastly, the accomplishment of it is set forth to the end of the chapter. The first
verse is a transition, speaking of the angels who keep the lesser parts from harm, until God
commands. For, as in (<bcv=Ezek 10:19>Eze 10:19</bcv>), their faces and their wings reach up, continually waiting on and
watching the countenance of God for their direction and every one of them goes into that part that
is right before his face: wherever the Spirit goes, they go, they do not step out of the way, not so
much as a foot breadth from the path commanded to them by God.

(a) On the four corners or coasts of the earth. (2) That is, neither into the air, into which the trees
grow.

#BCV:Revelation 7:3-8
<h3><verse=Revelation 7:3>Revelation 7:3</verse></h3>

(3) And I saw (4) another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he
cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea,

(3) Now God provides against the danger of his elect, by his commandment (<bcv=Rev 7:2>Rev 7:2</bcv>,<bcv=Revelation 7:3>3</bcv>), and by sign
or figure, both for those of the nation of the Jews and also for the Gentiles (<bcv=Rev 7:9>Rev 7:9</bcv>). (4) Not only
another, or differing number from the common angels of God, but also in essence, office and
operation exceeding all angels: that is, Christ Jesus the eternal angel or Word of God, and mediator
of the covenant, see (<bcv=Rev 8:3>Rev 8:3</bcv>,<bcv=Rev 10:1> Rev 10:1</bcv>,<bcv=Rev 10:5> Rev 10:5</bcv>).

And I heard the number of them which were sealed: [and there were] sealed (5) an hundred [and]
forty [and] four thousand of all the tribes of the children of Israel.

(5) That is, of the Jews a number certain in itself before God, and such as may be numbered of us:
for which cause also the same is here set down as certain. But of the elect who are Gentiles, the
number indeed is in itself certain with God, but of us not possibly to be numbered, as God, (Gen
<page=3356>15:5). This is spoken with respect, when a certain number is put for one uncertain. Compare with
(<bcv=Rev 7:9>Rev 7:9</bcv>).

Of the tribe of Simeon [were] sealed twelve thousand. (6) Of the tribe of (b) Levi [were] sealed
twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Issachar [were] sealed twelve thousand.

(6) Here the tribe of Levi is listed with the rest, because all the Israelites were equally made priests
with them in Christ by his priesthood (<bcv=Rom 12:1>Rom 12:1</bcv>; <bcv=1Pe 2:9>Pe1 2:9</bcv>; <bcv=Rev 1:6>Rev 1:6</bcv>;<bcv=Rev 5:10> Rev 5:10</bcv>). Dan is not mentioned,
because the Danites long before forsaking the worship of God, were fallen away from the fellowship
of God's people, to the part of the Gentiles: which evil many ages before Jacob foresaw (<bcv=Gen 49:17-18>Gen 49:17-18</bcv>), and because of which no mention is made of this tribe in the book of Chronicles.

(b) He skipped Dan, and reckons Levi.

Of the tribe of Zabulon [were] sealed twelve thousand. Of the tribe of (c) Joseph [were] sealed
twelve thousand. Of the tribe of Benjamin [were] sealed twelve thousand.

(c) Of Ephraim, who was Joseph's other son, and had the birthright given him, of which he is called
Joseph.

#BCV:Revelation 7:9
<h3><verse=Revelation 7:9>Revelation 7:9</verse></h3>

After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, (7) which no man could number, of all nations, and
kindreds, and people, and tongues, (8) stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with
white robes, and palms in their hands;

(7) See<bcv=Rev 7:4> Rev 7:4</bcv> (8) As priests, kings and glorious conquerors by martyrdom: which is noted by the
signs in this verse.

#BCV:Revelation 7:9
<h3><verse=Revelation 7:9>Revelation 7:9</verse></h3>

(9) And cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and
unto the Lamb.

(9) The praise of God, celebrated first by the holy men, in this verse, then by the heavenly angels, in
the two verses following (<bcv=Rev 7:11-12>Rev 7:11-12</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 7:10-11
<h3><verse=Revelation 7:10>Revelation 7:10</verse></h3>

<page=3357>(10) And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white
robes? and whence came they?

(10) A passage over to the explanation of the vision, which the angel enquires of John to stir him up
in this verse and John in the form of speech, both acknowledges his own ignorance, attributing
knowledge to the angel, and also in a humble manner requests the explanation of the vision.

And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, (11) These are they which came out of
great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.

(11) The explanation of the vision, in which the angel tells first the acts of the saints, that is, their
sufferings and work of faith in Christ Jesus, in this verse. Secondly their glory: both present, which
consists in two things, that they minister to God, and that God protects them (<bcv=Rev 7:15>Rev 7:15</bcv>) and to come,
in their perfect deliverance from all annoyances (<bcv=Rev 7:16>Rev 7:16</bcv>) and in participation of all good things
which the memory of past hurts shall never be able to diminish (<bcv=Rev 7:17>Rev 7:17</bcv>). The cause efficient and
which contains all these things is only one, the Lamb of God, the Lord, the Mediator, and the
Saviour Christ Jesus.

Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him (d) day and night in his temple: and he
that sitteth on the throne shall dwell (e) among them.

(d) He alludes to the Levites, who served day and night, for there is no night in heaven.

(e) Or, upon them, referring to God's defence and protection of those who are as safe, as men in
the Lord's tents.

<h2>Revelation 8</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 8:1
<h3><verse=Revelation 8:1>Revelation 8:1</verse></h3>

<page=3358>And (1) when he had opened the seventh seal, there was silence in heaven about the space of half
an hour.

(1) He returns to the history of the seals of the book, which the Lamb opens. The seventh seal is
the next sign, a precise commandment for the execution of the most severe judgment of God on
this wicked world, and being understood by the seal, all things in heaven are silent, and in horror
through admiration, until the command to act is given by God to the ministers of his wrath. So he
moves to the third part which I spoke of before in (<bcv=Rev 6:1>Rev 6:1</bcv>) which is the enacting of those evils with
which God most justly determined to afflict the world.

#BCV:Revelation 8:2
<h3><verse=Revelation 8:2>Revelation 8:2</verse></h3>

(2) And I saw the seven angels which (a) stood before God; and to them were given seven trumpets.

(2) Now follows the third branch of the common history, as even now I said: which is the execution
of the judgments of God on the world. This is first generally prepared, down to (<bcv=Rev 8:3-6>Rev 8:3-6</bcv>). The
administers of the execution are seven angels: their instruments, trumpets, by which they sound the
alarm at the commandment of God. They are seven in number, because it did not please God to
deliver all his wrath on the rebellious world at once, but at various times, in segments, and in slow
order, and as if unwilling to exercise his judgments on his creatures, so long called on both by word
and signs, if perhaps they should decide to repent.

(a) Who appear before him as his ministers.

#BCV:Revelation 8:3
<h3><verse=Revelation 8:3>Revelation 8:3</verse></h3>

(3) And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto
him much incense, that he should offer [it] with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which
was before the throne.

(3) This is the great emperor, the Lord Jesus Christ, our King and Saviour, who both makes
intercession to God the Father for the saints, filling the heavenly sanctuary with most sweet odour,
and offering up their prayers, as the calves and burnt sacrifices of their lips, in this verse: in such
manner as every one of them (so powerful is that sweet savour of Christ, and the reliability of his
sacrifice) are reconciled with God and made most acceptable to him, (<bcv=Rev 8:4>Rev 8:4</bcv>). Then also out of his
treasury and from the same sanctuary, the fire of his wrath descends on the world, adding also
divine signs to it: and by that means (as of old the heralds of Rome did) he proclaims war against
the rebellious world.

God out of the angel's hand.

(b) Our prayers are worth nothing, unless the true and sweet savour of that only sacrifice be
especially and before all things with them, that is to say, unless we are first of all justified through
faith in his Son, acceptable to him.

#BCV:Revelation 8:4
<h3><verse=Revelation 8:4>Revelation 8:4</verse></h3>

(4) And the seven angels which had the seven trumpets prepared themselves to sound.

(4) This is the work of the administers. The angels, the administers of Christ, by sounding trumpet
and voice (for they are heralds) effectually call forth the instruments of the wrath of God, through
his power. Until now, things have been general. Now the narration of specific things follows, which
the angels fix in number wrought in their order, set out in (<bcv=Rev 8:7>Rev 8:7</bcv>) and is concluded with the
declaration of the event which followed these things done in the world, and in chapters ten and
eleven.

#BCV:Revelation 8:5
<h3><verse=Revelation 8:5>Revelation 8:5</verse></h3>

(5) The first angel sounded, and there followed hail and fire mingled with blood, and they were cast
upon the earth: and the third part of trees was burnt up, and all green grass was burnt up.

(5) The first execution at the sound of the first angel, on the earth, that is, the inhabitants of the
earth (by metonymy) and on all the fruits of it: as comparing this verse with the second part of (Rev
8:9) does plainly declare.

#BCV:Revelation 8:6
<h3><verse=Revelation 8:6>Revelation 8:6</verse></h3>

(6) And the second angel sounded, and as it were a great mountain burning with fire was cast into
the sea: and the third part of the sea became blood;

(6) The second execution on the sea, in this verse and all things that are in (<bcv=Rev 8:9>Rev 8:9</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 8:7
<h3><verse=Revelation 8:7>Revelation 8:7</verse></h3>

(7) And the third angel sounded, and there fell a great star from heaven, burning as it were a lamp,
and it fell upon the third part of the rivers, and upon the fountains of waters;

(7) The third execution on the floods and fountains, that is, on all fresh water, in this verse: the
effect of which is, that many are destroyed by the bitterness of the water, in the verse following.

#BCV:Revelation 8:8
<h3><verse=Revelation 8:8>Revelation 8:8</verse></h3>

(8) wormwood; and many men died of the waters, because they were made bitter.

(8) This is spoken by metaphor of a commonly known bitter herb: unless perhaps a man following
those that note the derivation of words would rather explain it as an adjective for that which cannot
be drunk because of its bitterness, causing the liquid it is made into to be more bitter than any man
can drink.

#BCV:Revelation 8:9
<h3><verse=Revelation 8:9>Revelation 8:9</verse></h3>

(9) And the fourth angel sounded, and the third part of the sun was smitten, and the third part of
the moon, and the third part of the stars; so as the third part of them was darkened, and the day
shone not for a third part of it, and the night likewise.

(9) The fourth execution on the lights of heaven, which give light to this world.

#BCV:Revelation 8:10
<h3><verse=Revelation 8:10>Revelation 8:10</verse></h3>

(10) And I beheld, and heard an angel flying through the midst of heaven, saying with a loud voice,
Woe, woe, woe, to the inhabiters of the earth by reason of the other voices of the trumpet of the
three angels, which are yet to sound!

(10) A lamentable prediction or foretelling of those parts of the divine execution which yet are
behind: which also is a passage to the argument of the next chapter. Of all these things in a manner
Christ himself expressly foretold in (<bcv=Luk 21:24>Luk 21:24</bcv>) and they are common plagues generally denounced,
without particular note of time.

<h2>Revelation 9</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 9:1-3
<h3><verse=Revelation 9:1>Revelation 9:1</verse></h3>

<page=3361>(1) And the fifth angel sounded, and I saw a (2) star fall from heaven unto the earth: (3) and to him
was given the key of the (a) bottomless pit.

(1) The first execution on the wicked men inhabiting the earth (as the angel said before) wrought by
the infernal powers is declared from here to (<bcv=Rev 9:2-11>Rev 9:2-11</bcv>) and after the sixth execution to (<bcv=Rev 9:12-19>Rev 9:12-19</bcv>)
and lastly is shown the common event that followed the former execution in the world, in the two
last verses (<bcv=Rev 9:20-21>Rev 9:20-21</bcv>). (2) That is, that the angel of God glittering with glory, as a star fallen from
heaven. He may be Christ, who has the keys of hell by himself and by princely authority, (<bcv=Rev 1:18>Rev 1:18</bcv>)
or some inferior angel who has the same key entrusted to him and holds it ministerially, or by office
of his ministry, here and (<bcv=Rev 20:10>Rev 20:10</bcv>) so the word "falling" is taken; (<bcv=Gen 14:10>Gen 14:10</bcv>;<bcv=Gen 24:46> Gen 24:46</bcv>;<bcv=Heb 6:6> Heb 6:6</bcv>). (3)
The key was given to this star. For those powers of wickedness are sent to hell, bound with chains
of darkness and kept there until damnation, unless God lets them loose for a time; 
(<bcv=2Pe 2:4>Pe2 2:4</bcv>; <bcv=Jude 1:6>Jde 1:6</bcv>; <bcv=Rev 20:7>Rev 20:7</bcv>) the history of these agrees with this chapter.

(a) By the bottomless pit, he means the deepest darkness of hell.

#BCV:Revelation 9:4
<h3><verse=Revelation 9:4>Revelation 9:4</verse></h3>

(4) And he opened the bottomless pit; and there arose a smoke out of the pit, as the smoke of a
great furnace; and the sun and the air were darkened by reason of the smoke of the pit.

(4) To this is added, the smoke of the hellish and infernal dark spirits, darkening all things in heaven
and in earth. The spiritual darkness is the cause of all disorder and confusion: For the devil at a
certain time sent these spirits into his kingdom, that he might at once and with one action overthrow
all things and pervert if it were possible the elect themselves. By this darkness, all spiritual light, both
active as of the sun and passive as of the air which is lightened by the sun, is taken away: and this is
that which goes before the spirits: it follows of the spirits themselves.

#BCV:Revelation 9:5
<h3><verse=Revelation 9:5>Revelation 9:5</verse></h3>

(5) And there came out of the smoke locusts upon the earth: and unto them was given power, as the
scorpions of the earth have power.

(5) A description of the malignant spirits invading the world, taken from their nature, power, form
and order. From their nature, for that they are like certain locust, in quickness, subtilty, hurtfulness,
number, and such like, in this verse. From their power, for that they are as the scorpions of the earth,
of a secret force to hurt: for our battle is not here with flesh and blood, but with powers (<bcv=Eph 6:12>Eph 6:12</bcv>)
This place of the power of the devils, generally noted in this verse, is particularly declared
afterwards in (<bcv=Rev 9:4-6>Rev 9:4-6</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 9:6
<h3><verse=Revelation 9:6>Revelation 9:6</verse></h3>

<page=3362>(6) And it was commanded them that they should not hurt the grass of the earth, neither any green
thing, neither any tree; but only those men which have not the seal of God in their foreheads.

(6) Here the power of the devils is described according to their actions and the effects of the same.
Their actions are said to be limited by the counsel of God: both because they do not hurt all men,
but only the reprobate (for the godly and elect, in whom there is any part of a better life, God
guards by his decree) whom Christ shall not have sealed, in this verse: and also because they did not
have all power nor at all time, no not over those that are their own, but limited in manner and time,
by the prescript of God in (<bcv=Rev 9:5>Rev 9:5</bcv>). So their power to afflict the godly is none, and for the wicked is
limited in act and in effect, by the will of God: for the manner was prescribed to them that they
should not slay, but torment this wretched world. The time is for five months, or for a hundred and
fifty days, that is, for so many years, in which the devils have indeed mightily perverted all things in
the world: and yet without that public and unpunished license of killing, which afterwards they
usurped when the sixth angel had blown his trumpet, as shall be said in (<bcv=Rev 9:13>Rev 9:13</bcv>). Now this space is
to be accounted from the end of that thousand years mentioned in (<bcv=Rev 20:3>Rev 20:3</bcv>) and that is from the
reign of pope Gregory the seventh, a most monstrous Necromancer, who before was called
Hidebrandus Senensis: for this man being made altogether of impiety and wickedness, as a slave of
the devil, whom he served, was the most wicked firebrand of the world: he excommunicated the
emperor Henry the fourth: went about by all manner of treachery to set up and put down Empires
and kingdoms as he liked: and did not hesitate to set Rodolph the Swedon over the Empire instead
of Henry, sending to him a crown, with this verse annexed to it: <latin>"Petra dedid Petro, Petrus diadema
Rodolpho"<english> that is, "The Rock to Peter gave the Crown, and Peter Rodolph doth renown". Finally, he
so finely bestirred himself in his affairs, as he miserably set all Christendom on fire, and conveyed
over to his successors the burning brand of the same who enraged with like ambition, never ceased
to nourish that flame, and to kindle it more and more: by which cities, commonwealths and whole
kingdoms set together by the ears amongst themselves by most expert cut-throats, came to ruin,
while they miserably wounded one another. This term of a hundred and fifty years, ends in the time
of Gregory the ninth or Hugolinus Anagniensis (as he was called before) who caused Raimond his
chaplain and confessor to compile the writings of Decretals, and by permission of the kings and
princes, published them in the Christian world, and established them as Law: For by this trick at
length the popes gave themselves licence to kill whom they would, while others were unaware: and
without fear established a butchery out of many of the wicked Canons of the Decretals, which the
trumpet of the fifth angel had expressly forbidden and had hindered until this time. The effects of
these bloody actions are declared in (<bcv=Rev 9:6>Rev 9:6</bcv>) that the miserable world languishing in so great
calamities, should willingly seek death and prefer the it over life, by reason of the severity of the
miseries that oppressed them.

#BCV:Revelation 9:7
<h3><verse=Revelation 9:7>Revelation 9:7</verse></h3>

<page=3363>(7) And the shapes of the locusts [were] like unto horses prepared unto battle; and on their heads
[were] as it were crowns like gold, and their faces [were] as the faces of men.

(7) The form of these hellish spirits and administers, is outlined by signs and visible figures in this
manner: that they are very expert and swift: that wherever they are in the world, the kingdom is
theirs: that they manage all their affairs with cunning and skill, in this verse: that making show of
mildness and tender affection to draw on men with, they most impudently rage in all mischief: that
they are most mighty to do hurt (<bcv=Rev 9:8>Rev 9:8</bcv>) that they are freed from being hurt by any man, as armed
with the colour of religion and sacred authority of privilege: that they fill all things with horror, (Rev
9:9) that they are fraudulent: that they are poisonous and extremely offensive though their power is
limited. (<bcv=Rev 9:10>Rev 9:10</bcv>). All these things are found in the infernal powers and communicated by them to
their ministers and vassals.

#BCV:Revelation 9:8
<h3><verse=Revelation 9:8>Revelation 9:8</verse></h3>

(8) And they had a king over them, [which is] the angel of the bottomless pit, whose name in the
Hebrew tongue [is] Abaddon, but in the Greek tongue hath [his] name Apollyon.

(8) The order of powers of maliciousness: that they are subject to one infernal king, whom you may
call, The Destroyer: who drives the whole world both Jews and Gentiles into the destruction that
belongs to himself. I cannot tell whether this name has respect to the etymological interpretation of
Hildebrand, by a figure often used in the Holy Scripture: which albeit it may otherwise be turned of
the Germans (as the sense of compound words is commonly ambiguous) yet in very deed it signifies
as much as if you should call him, the firebrand, that is, he that sets on fire those that are faithful to
him.

#BCV:Revelation 9:9
<h3><verse=Revelation 9:9>Revelation 9:9</verse></h3>

(9) One woe is past; [and], behold, there come two woes more hereafter.

(9) A passage to the next point and the history of the time following.

#BCV:Revelation 9:10-12
<h3><verse=Revelation 9:10>Revelation 9:10</verse></h3>

(10) And the sixth angel sounded, (11) and I heard a voice from the (b) four horns of the golden
altar which is before God,

(10) The sixth execution done on the world by the tyrannical powers of it, working in the four parts
of the earth, that is, in most cruel manner execution their tyrannous dominion through out the
whole world: and killing the miserable people without punishment, which before was not lawful for
them to do in that sort, as I showed in (<bcv=Rev 9:4>Rev 9:4</bcv>). This narration has two parts: a commandment from
God, in (<bcv=Rev 9:14>Rev 9:14</bcv>) and an execution of the commandment, in (<bcv=Rev 9:15>Rev 9:15</bcv>).

(11) The commandment given by Christ himself, who is governor over all.

<page=3364>(b) He alludes to the altar of incense, which stood in the court which the priests were in, opposite
the Ark of the Covenant, having a veil between them.

Saying to the sixth angel which had the trumpet, (12) Loose the four angels which are bound in the
great river Euphrates.

(12) As if he should have said, these till now have been bound by the power of God, that they could
not freely run over all men as they lusted, but were held and restrained at that great river of
Euphrates, that is, in their spiritual Babylon (or this is a paraphrase of the spiritual Babylon, by the
limits of the visible Babylon long since overthrown) that they might not commit those horrible
slaughters, which they long breathed after. Now go to it, let loose those four angels, that is,
administers of the wrath of God, in that number that is convenient to the slaughtering of the four
quarters of the world: stir them up and give them the bridle, that rushing out of that Babylon of
theirs, which is the seat of the wicked ones, they may fly over all the world, therein to rage, and most
licentiously to practise their tyranny, as God has ordained. This was done when Gregory the ninth
by public authority established as Law, his own Decretals, by which he might freely lay traps for the
life of simple men. For who is it that sees not that the laws of Decretal, most of them are snares to
catch souls with? Since that time (O good God) how many great slaughters have there been? How
many great massacres? All history is full of them: and this our age abounds with most horrible and
monstrous examples of the these.

#BCV:Revelation 9:13-14
<h3><verse=Revelation 9:13>Revelation 9:13</verse></h3>

(13) And the four angels were loosed, which were prepared for an hour, and a day, and a month, and
a year, for to slay the third part of men.
For their power is in their mouth, and in their tails: (14) for their tails [were] like unto serpents, and
had heads, and with them they do hurt.

(13) The execution of the commandment is in two parts: one, that those butchers are let loose, that
out of their tower of the spiritual Babylon they might with fury run abroad through all the world, as
well the chief of that crew who are most prompt to all the work, in this verse: as their multitudes,
both most copious, of which a number certain is named for a number infinite (<bcv=Rev 9:16>Rev 9:16</bcv>) and in
themselves by all means fully furnished to hide and to hurt (<bcv=Rev 9:17>Rev 9:17</bcv>) as being armed with fire,
smoke and brimstone, as appears in the colour of this armour, which dazzles the eyes to all men,
and have the strength of lions to cause pain, from which (as out of their mouth) the fiery, smoky,
and stinking darts of the pope are shot out (<bcv=Rev 9:18>Rev 9:18</bcv>) The other part, that these butchers have
effected the commandment of God by fraud and violence, in the two verses following (<bcv=Rev 9:16-17>Rev 9:16-17</bcv>).

<page=3365>(14) That is, they are harmful on all sides: on whatever part you put your hand to them, or they
touch you, they do hurt. So the former are called Scorpions, (<bcv=Rev 9:3>Rev 9:3</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 9:15
<h3><verse=Revelation 9:15>Revelation 9:15</verse></h3>


(15) And the rest of the men which were not killed by these plagues yet repented not of the works
of their hands, that they should not worship devils, and idols of gold, and silver, and brass, and
stone, and of wood: which neither can see, nor hear, nor walk:

(15) Now remains the event (as I said on the first verse), See<bcv=Rev 9:1> Rev 9:1</bcv> which followed so many
grievous judgments in the most wicked world, namely an impenitent affirmation of the ungodly in
their impiety and unrighteousness, though they feel themselves most vehemently pressed with the
hand of God: for their obstinate ungodliness is showed in this verse: and their unrighteousness in
the verse following (<bcv=Rev 9:21>Rev 9:21</bcv>). So far has been the general history of things to be done universally in
the whole world: which because it does not so much belong to the Church of Christ, is therefore
not so expressly distinguished by certainty of time and other circumstances, but is woven, as they say,
with a slight hand. Also there is no other reason why the history of the seventh angel is passed over
in this place, then for that the same more properly appertains to the history of the Church. But this
is more diligently set out according to its time, (<bcv=Rev 11:16>Rev 11:16</bcv>) as shall appear on those places.

<h2>Revelation 10</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 10:1-3
<h3><verse=Revelation 10:1>Revelation 10:1</verse></h3>

<page=3366>And (1) I saw (2) another mighty angel come down from heaven, clothed with a cloud: and a
rainbow [was] upon his head, and his face [was] as it were the sun, and his feet as pillars of fire:

(1) Now John passes to the other prophetical history, which is of the Church of God, as I showed
that this book should be distinguished (<bcv=Rev 4:1>Rev 4:1</bcv>). This story goes from here to (<bcv=Rev 22:1>Rev 22:1</bcv>). This whole
chapter is a transition from the common history of the world to that which is particular of the
Church. There are in this transition or passage, two preparatives as it were, to this Church story
comprised in this whole chapter. One is the authority of Christ revealing his mysteries and calling
his servant, to (<bcv=Rev 10:7>Rev 10:7</bcv>). The other is John, his calling proper to this place, and repeated from
before to the end of this chapter. Authority is given to this revelation, by these things: first, by the
appearing from heaven in this habit and countenance, strong, ready glorious surveying all things by
his providence, and governing them by his omnipotence (<bcv=Rev 10:1>Rev 10:1</bcv>). Secondly, that he brought not by
chance, but out of a book, this open revelation, set forth to the eye, to signify the same to the sea
and land, as the Lord over all (<bcv=Rev 10:2>Rev 10:2</bcv>). Thirdly that he offered the same not whispering or
muttering in a corner (as false prophets do) but crying out with a loud voice to those who sleep, and
with a lionish and terrible noise roused the secure: the very thunders themselves giving testimony to
it (<bcv=Rev 10:3>Rev 10:3</bcv>). Lastly, for that he confirmed all by another (<bcv=Rev 10:5-7>Rev 10:5-7</bcv>).

(2) Christ Jesus, see (<bcv=Rev 7:2>Rev 7:2</bcv>)

And he had in his hand a (3) little book open: and he set his right foot upon the sea, and [his] left
[foot] on the earth,

(3) Namely, a special book of the affairs of God's Church: For the book that contains things
belonging to the whole world, is said to be kept with the Creator (<bcv=Rev 5:1>Rev 5:1</bcv>) but the book of the
Church, with the Redeemer: and out of this book is taken the rest of the history of this Apocalypse.

#BCV:Revelation 10:4-6
<h3><verse=Revelation 10:4>Revelation 10:4</verse></h3>

(4) And when the seven thunders had uttered their voices, I was about to write: and I heard a voice
from heaven saying unto me, (a) Seal up those things which the seven thunders uttered, and write
them not.
And sware by him that liveth for ever and ever, who created heaven, and the things that therein are,
and the earth, and the things that therein are, and the sea, and the things which are therein, (5) that
there should be (c) time no longer:
But in the days of the (6) voice of the seventh angel, when he shall begin to sound, the mystery of
God should be finished, as he hath declared to his servants the prophets.

(4) A godly care is laudable, but must be married with knowledge. Therefore nothing is to be done
but by the calling of God, which must be expected and waited for by the godly.

(a) Keep them secret.

(b) This was a gesture used of one that swears, which men do now use.

(5) Neither time itself, nor the things that are in time: but that the world to come is at hand, which is
altogether of eternity, and beyond all times.

(c) There shall never be any more time.

(6) See (<bcv=Rev 11:15>Rev 11:15</bcv>;<bcv=Rev 16:17> Rev 16:17</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 10:7
<h3><verse=Revelation 10:7>Revelation 10:7</verse></h3>

(7) And the voice which I heard from heaven spake unto me again, and said, Go [and] take the little
book which is open in the hand of the angel which standeth upon the sea and upon the earth.

(7) The other part of this chapter concerning the particular calling of John to the receiving of the
following prophecy, which is enjoined him, first by sign, in three verses, then in plain words in the
last verse (<bcv=Rev 10:9-11>Rev 10:9-11</bcv>). To the setting forth of the sign belong these things: That John is taught from
heaven to ask for the book of the prophecy in this verse: for these motions and desires God inspires
that asking for the book, he is charged to take it in a figurative manner, the use of which is
expounded in (<bcv=Rev 10:9>Rev 10:9</bcv>) (as in) (<bcv=Ezek 2:9>Eze 2:9</bcv>) whence this similitude is borrowed: lastly that John at the
commandment of Christ took the book, and found by experience that the same as proceeding from
Christ, was most sweet, but in that it foretells the afflictions of the Church, it was most bitter to his
spirit.

#BCV:Revelation 10:8
<h3><verse=Revelation 10:8>Revelation 10:8</verse></h3>

(8) And he said unto me, Thou must prophesy again before many peoples, and nations, and tongues,
and kings.

<page=3368>(8) A simple and plain declaration of the sign before, witnessing the divine calling of John, and
laying on him the necessity of it.

<h2>Revelation 11</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 11:1-2
<h3><verse=Revelation 11:1>Revelation 11:1</verse></h3>

<page=3369>And there (1) was given me a reed like unto a rod: and the angel stood, saying, Rise, and (2) measure
the temple of God, and the altar, and them that worship therein.

(1) The authority of the intended revelation being declared, together with the necessity of that
calling which was particularly imposed on John after which follows the history of the estate of
Christ his Church, both conflicting or warring, and overcoming in Christ. For the true Church of
Christ is said to fight against that which is falsely so called, over which Antichrist rules, Christ Jesus
overthrowing Antichrist by the spirit of his mouth: and Christ is said to overcome most gloriously
until he shall slay Antichrist by the appearance of his coming, as the apostle teaches in (<bcv=II Th 2:8>Th2 2:8</bcv>). So
this history has two parts: One of the state of the Church conflicting with temptations until Chapter
16. The other of the state of the same church obtaining victory, thence to Chapter 20. The first part
has two sections most conveniently distributed into their times, of which the first contains a history
of the Christian Church for 1260 years, what time the gospel of Christ was as it were taken up from
among men into heaven: the second contains a history of the same Church to the victory perfected.
These two sections are briefly, though distinctly propounded in this chapter, but both of them are
discoursed after in due order. For we understand the state of the Church conflicting, out of
Chapters 12 and 13, and of the same growing out of afflictions, out of Chapters 14 to 16. Neither
did John unknowingly join together the history of these two times in this chapter, because here is
spoken of prophecy, which all confess to be but one just and immutable in the Church, and which
Christ commanded to be continual. The history of the former time reaches to (<bcv=Rev 11:2-14>Rev 11:2-14</bcv>), the
latter is set down in the rest of this chapter (<bcv=Rev 11:15-19>Rev 11:15-19</bcv>). In the former are shown these things: the
calling of the servants of God in (<bcv=Rev 11:4>Rev 11:4</bcv>) the conflicts which the faithful must undergo in their
calling, for Christ and his Church, thence to (<bcv=Rev 11:5-10>Rev 11:5-10</bcv>) and their resurrection, and receiving up
into heaven to (<bcv=Rev 11:11-14>Rev 11:11-14</bcv>). In the calling of the servants of God, two things are mentioned: the
begetting and settling of the Church in two verses, and the education of it in two verses. The
begetting of the Church is here commended to John by sign and by speech: the sign is a measuring
rod, and the speech a commandment to measure the Temple of God, that is, to reduce the same to a
new form: because the Gentiles are already entered into the Temple of Jerusalem, and shall shortly
defile and overthrow it completely.

(2) Either that of Jerusalem's, which was a figure of the Church of Christ, or that heavenly model in

(<bcv=Rev 11:19>Rev 11:19</bcv>) but I like the first better, and the things following all agree to it. The sense therefore is,
you see all things in God's house, almost from the passion of Christ, to be disordered: and not only
the city of Jerusalem, but also the court of the Temple is trampled under foot by the nations, and by
profane men whether Jews or strangers: and that only this Temple, that is, the body of the Temple,
with the altar, and a small company of good men who truly worship God, do now remain, whom
God sanctifies and confirms by his presence. Measure therefore this, even this true Church, or rather
the true type of the true Church, omitting the rest, and so describe all things from me, that the true
Church of Christ may be as it were a very little centre, and the Church of Antichrist as the circle of
<page=3370>the centre, every way in length and breadth compassing about the same, that by way of prophecy
you may so declare openly, that the state of the Temple of God, and the faithful who worship him,
that is, of the Church, is much more upright than the Church of Antichrist.

#BCV:Revelation 11:3-5
<h3><verse=Revelation 11:3>Revelation 11:3</verse></h3>

(3) But the (a) court which is without the temple (b) leave out, and measure it not; for it is given
unto the (4) Gentiles: and the holy city shall they tread under foot (5) forty [and] two months.

(3) As if he should say, it is not your place to judge those who are outside, (<bcv=1Co 5:12>Co1 5:12</bcv>) who are
innumerable: look to those of the household only, or to the house of the living God.

(a) He speaks of the outer court, which was called the peoples court, because all men might come
into that.

(b) That is counted to be cast out, which in measuring is refused as profane. (4) To profane persons,
wicked and unbelievers, adversaries to the Church. (5) Or a thousand, two hundred and sixty days, as
is said in (<bcv=Rev 11:3>Rev 11:3</bcv>): that is, a thousand two hundred and sixty years, a day for a year, as often in
Ezekiel and Daniel, which I noted before See<bcv=Rev 2:10> Rev 2:10</bcv>. The beginning of these thousand two
hundred and sixty years, we account from the passion of Christ, by which (the partition wall being
broken down) we were made from two into one (<bcv=Eph 2:14>Eph 2:14</bcv>). I say, one flock under one shepherd in
(<bcv=John 10:16>Joh 10:16</bcv>) and the end of these years precisely falls into the reign of pope Boniface the eighth, who
a little before the end of 1294, entered Rome in the feast of Saint Lucie (as Bergomensis says)
having put in prison his predecessor Coelestinus, whom by fraud, under colour of Oracle, he
deceived: for which cause it was well said of him, <latin>"Intravit ut vulpes, regnavit ut leo, mortuus est ut
canis."<english> That is, "He entered like a fox, reigned like a lion, and died like a dog." For if from 1294, you
subtract the number of years Christ lived on the earth, you will find there remains just one thousand
two hundred and sixty years, which are mentioned in this place and many others.

#BCV:Revelation 11:6
<h3><verse=Revelation 11:6>Revelation 11:6</verse></h3>

And (6) I will give [power] unto my two witnesses, and they shall (7) prophesy a thousand two
hundred [and] threescore days, clothed in sackcloth.

(6) I would rather translate it "illud" than "illam" the temple than the city: for God says, I will give
that temple, and commit it to my two witnesses, that is, to the ministers of the word, who are few
indeed, weak and contemptible: but yet two, that is, of such a number as one of them may help
another, and one confirm the testimony of another to all men, that from the mouth of two or three
witnesses every word may be made good among men; (<bcv=2Co 13:1>Co2 13:1</bcv>). (7) They will exercise their office
enjoined by me by the space of those 1260 years, in the midst of afflictions though never so
lamentable, which is figuratively shown by the mourning garment.

#BCV:Revelation 11:8
<h3><verse=Revelation 11:8>Revelation 11:8</verse></h3>

<page=3371>These (8) are the two olive trees, and the two candlesticks standing before the God of the earth.

(8) That is, the ordinary and perpetual instruments of spiritual grace, peace and light in my Church,
which God by his only power preserved in this Temple. See (<bcv=Zec 4:3>Zac 4:3</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 11:9
<h3><verse=Revelation 11:9>Revelation 11:9</verse></h3>

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

(9) The power and surety of the holy ministry, which is truly evangelical, is declared both in earth
and in heaven, protecting the administers of it, and destroying its enemies, in this verse, divine
power, most mightily showing itself forth in heaven, earth and the sea in (<bcv=Rev 11:6>Rev 11:6</bcv>) as it is described
in (<bcv=2Co 10:4>Co2 10:4</bcv>) according to the promise of Christ in (<bcv=Mar 16:17>Mar 16:17</bcv>). This is the second place (as I said
before) of the combats which the servants of God must undergo in the executing of their calling,
and of the things that follow the same combats or conflicts are these things to overcome, in these
two verses: to be overcome and killed in (<bcv=Rev 11:7>Rev 11:7</bcv>) After the slaughter follow these things, that the
carcasses of the godly, laid abroad in (<bcv=Rev 11:8>Rev 11:8</bcv>) and being unburied, are scorned, together with
cursing and bitter abhorrance (<bcv=Rev 11:9>Rev 11:9</bcv>) and that therefore congratulations are publicly and privately
made in (<bcv=Rev 11:10>Rev 11:10</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 11:10-17
<h3><verse=Revelation 11:10>Revelation 11:10</verse></h3>

(10) And when they shall have (c) finished their testimony, (11) the beast that ascendeth out of the
bottomless pit shall make war against them, and shall (12) overcome them, and kill them.
<page=3372>And their dead bodies [shall lie] in the (13) street of the great city, which (d) spiritually is called
Sodom and Egypt, (14) where also our Lord was crucified.
And they of the people and kindreds and tongues and nations shall see their dead bodies (15) three
days and an half, and shall not suffer their dead bodies to be put in graves.
And they that dwell upon the earth (16) shall rejoice over them, and make merry, and shall send gifts
one to another; because these two prophets (17) tormented them that dwelt on the earth.

(10) That is, when they have spent those 1260 years mentioned in (<bcv=Rev 11:2-3>Rev 11:2-3</bcv>) in publishing their
testimony according to their office.

(c) When they have done their message.

(11) Of which after Chapter 13, that beast is the Roman Empire, made long ago of civil,
ecclesiastical: the chief head of which was then Boniface the eighth, as I said before: who lifted up
himself in so great arrogancy, (says the author of <latin>"Falsciculus temporum")<english> that he called himself,
Lord of the whole world, as well in temporal causes, as in spiritual: There is a document of that
matter, written by the same Boniface most arrogantly, shall I say, or most wickedly, <latin>"Ca. unam
sanctam, extra de majoritate &amp; obedientia."<english> In the sixth of the Decretals (which is from the
same author) many things are found of the same argument.

(12) He shall persecute most cruelly the holy men, and put them to death, and shall wound and
pierce through with cursings, both their names and writings. That this was done to very many godly
men, by Boniface and others, the histories do declare, especially since the time that the odious and
condemned name amongst the multitude, first of the brethren Waldonenses or Lugdunenses, then
also of the Fraticels, was pretended, that good men might with more approbation be massacred.

(13) That is, openly at Rome: where at that time was a most great crowd of people, the year of Jubile
being then first ordained by Boniface to the same end, in the year 1300, an example of which is read
in chapter 1 <latin>"Extra, de poenitentys &amp; remissionibus."<english> So by one act he committed two wrongs
against Christ, both abolishing his truth by restoring the type of the Jubile, and triumphing over his
members by wicked superstition. O religious heart! Now that we should understand the things of
Rome, John himself is the author, both after in the seventeenth chapter almost throughout, and also
in the restriction now next following, when he says, it is that great city (as he calls it) (<bcv=Rev 17:18>Rev 17:18</bcv>) and
is spiritually termed Sodom and Egypt: and that spiritually (for that must here again be repeated
from before) Christ was there crucified. For the two first names signify spiritual wickednesses: the
latter signifies the show and pretence of good, that is, of Christian and sound religion. Sodom
signifies most licentious impiety and in the most confident glorying of that city, as it were in true
religion, being yet full of falsehood and ungodliness. Now who is ignorant that these things do
rather, and better fit Rome, than any other city? The commendations of the city of Rome for many
years past, are publicly notorious, which are not for me to gather together. This only I will say, that
he long since did very well see what Rome is, who upon leaving, used these verses: <latin>"Roma vale, vidi,
Satis est vidisse: revertar, Quumleno, meretrix, scurra, cinadus ero."<english> "Now farewell Rome, I have
seen thee, it was enough to see: I will return when as I mean, bawd, harlot knave to be"

(d) After a more secret type of meaning and understanding.

(14) Namely in his parts, as also he said to Saul in (<bcv=Acts 9:5>Act 9:5</bcv>)

(15) That is, for three years and a half: for so many years Boniface lived after his Jubile, as
Bergomensis witnesses.

(16) So much the more shall they by this occasion exercise the hilarity of their Jubile.

(17) The gospel of Christ is the affliction of the world, and the ministry of it, the savour of death to
death, to those that perish, (<bcv=2Co 2:16>Co2 2:16</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 11:18-23
<h3><verse=Revelation 11:18>Revelation 11:18</verse></h3>

<page=3373>(18) And after (19) three days and an half (20) the Spirit of life from God entered into them, and
they (21) stood upon their feet; and great fear fell upon them which saw them.
And they heard a great voice from heaven saying unto them, (22) Come up hither. And they
ascended up to heaven in a cloud; (23) and their enemies beheld them.

(18) The third passage, as noted before, is of the rising again of the prophets from the dead, and
their carrying up into heaven. For their resurrection is shown in this verse: their calling and lifting up
into heaven, in the verse following.

(19) That is, what time God shall destroy that wicked Boniface.

(20) That is, the prophets of God shall in a manner rise again, not the same in person (as they say)
but in spirit: that is, in the power and efficacy of their ministry, which John expressed before, in (Rev
11:5-6) So the prophecy that is spoken of Elijah, is interpreted by the angel to be understood of
John the Baptist (<bcv=Luk 1:17>Luk 1:17</bcv>). For the same Boniface himself, who sought to kill and destroy them, was
by the fire of God's mouth (which the holy ministry shows and exhibits) devoured and died
miserably in prison, by the endeavour of Satra Columensis and Nagaretus a French knight, whom
Philip the fair King of France sent into Italy but with a very small power.

(21) That is, the most grievous heat of afflictions and persecution shall stay for a while, for the great
amazement that shall arise on that sudden and unlooked for judgment of God.

(22) They were called by God into heaven, and taken out of this wicked world, into the heavenly
Church, which also lies hidden here in the earth, to exercise their calling secretly: of whom this
wretched world was unworthy; (<bcv=Heb 11:38>Heb 11:38</bcv>). For the church of the wicked is by comparison called the
earth, or the world: and the Church of the godly, heaven. As it was in ancient times among the godly
Israelites: so among the Jews in the days of Manasseh and other kings, when the earth refused the
heirs of heaven, we read that they lay hidden as heaven in the earth.

(23) Yet they could not hinder the secret ones of the Lord (as the Psalmist called them) (<bcv=Psa 83:3>Psa 83:3</bcv>)
but they prospered in his work.

#BCV:Revelation 11:24-25
<h3><verse=Revelation 11:13>Revelation 11:13</verse></h3>

(24) And the same hour was there a great earthquake, and the tenth part of the city fell, and in the
earthquake were slain of men seven thousand: and the remnant were affrighted, (25) and (e) gave
glory to the God of heaven.

<page=3374>(24) Bergomensis said, in 1301, "This year a blazing star foretelling great calamity to come, appeared
in heaven: in which year during the feast of St. Andrew, a great earthquake occurred as never before:
it continued for many days, and overthrew many stately houses." This he said of the year following
the Jubilee: which John many ages before, expressed word for word.

(25) They were indeed broken with present astonishment of mind, but did not earnestly repent as
they ought to have done.

(e) Glorified God by confessing his name.

#BCV:Revelation 11:26-28
<h3><verse=Revelation 11:14>Revelation 11:14</verse></h3>

(26) The second woe is past; [and], behold, the third woe cometh quickly.

(26) He passes to the second history, which is the second part of this chapter. John calls these the
second and third woe, see (<bcv=Rev 9:12>Rev 9:12</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 11:15
<h3><verse=Revelation 11:15>Revelation 11:15</verse></h3>

(27) And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, (28) The
kingdoms of this world are become [the kingdoms] of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall
reign for ever and ever.

(27) Of whose sounding the trumpet Christ expressly foretold in (<bcv=Rev 10:7>Rev 10:7</bcv>) and this is the second
part of this chapter, containing a general history of the Christian Church, from the time of Boniface
to the consummation of the victory declared by voice from heaven. In this history there are three
branches: a preparation by the sound of the angels trumpet: a narration by the voice of heavenly
angels and elders and a confirmation by sign.

(28) The narration has two parts: an acclamation of the heavenly creatures in this verse, and both an
adoration by all the elders in (<bcv=Rev 11:16>Rev 11:16</bcv>) and also a thanksgiving in (<bcv=Rev 11:17-18>Rev 11:17-18</bcv>). The sense of the
acclamation is, "Now the Lord has entered his kingdom and has restored his church in which most
mightily recovered from the profanation of the Gentiles, he may glorify himself." Namely that,
which the Lord ordained when he first ordained his Church, that the faith of the saints does now
behold as accomplished.

#BCV:Revelation 11:29
<h3><verse=Revelation 11:29>Revelation 11:29</verse></h3>

(29) And the four and twenty elders, which sat before God on their seats, fell upon their faces, and
worshipped God,

(29) As before in (<bcv=Rev 7:11>Rev 7:11</bcv>). This giving of thanks is altogether of the same content with the words
going before.

#BCV:Revelation 11:30-31
<h3><verse=Revelation 11:30>Revelation 11:30</verse></h3>

(30) be judged, and that thou shouldest give reward unto thy servants the prophets, and to the saints, and
them that fear thy name, small and great; and shouldest destroy them which destroy the earth.
And the temple of God was (31) opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his
testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail.

(30) A speech of the Hebrew language, as if to say, as Gentiles being angry, your inflamed wrath
came on them, and showed itself from heaven, occasioned by their anger and fury.

(31) This is the confirmation of the next prophecy before going by signs exhibited in heaven, and
that of two sorts, of which some are visible, as the passing away of the heaven, the opening of the
temple, the ark of the covenant appearing in the temple, and testifying the glorious presence of God,
and the lightning: others apprehended by ear and feeling, which bear witness in heaven and earth to
the truth of the judgments of God.

<h2>Revelation 12</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 12:1-2
<h3><verse=Revelation 12:1>Revelation 12:1</verse></h3>

<page=3376>And (1) there appeared a great wonder in heaven; (2) a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon
under her feet, and upon her head a crown of twelve stars:

(1) Until now it has been the general prophecy, comprehended in two parts, as I showed in (Rev.
11:1-19). Now will be declared the first part of this prophecy, in this and the next chapter and the
latter part in the fourteenth, fifteenth and sixteenth chapters. To the first part, which is about the
conflicting or militant Church belong two things. The beginning and the progress of the same in
conflicts and Christian combats. Of which two the beginning of the Church is described in this
chapter, and the progress of it in the chapter following. The beginning of the Christian Church we
define as the first moment of the conception of Christ, until the time in which this church was
weaned and taken away from the breast or milk of her mother: which is the time when the Church
of the Jews with their city and temple was overthrown by the judgment of God. So we have in this
chapter the story of 69 years and upwards. There are three parts to this chapter. The first, is the
history of the conception and pregnancy in (<bcv=Rev 12:1-4>Rev 12:1-4</bcv>). The second, a history of the birth from
(<bcv=Rev 12:5-12>Rev 12:5-12</bcv>). The third is about the woman who gave birth, to the end of the chapter. These several
parts each have their conflicts. Therefore in the first part are two verses: and another of the lying in
wait of the dragon against the child about to be born, in the next two verses. In the first point are
these things, the description of the mother (<bcv=Rev 12:1>Rev 12:1</bcv>) and the pains of childbirth in (<bcv=Rev 12:2>Rev 12:2</bcv>) all
shown to John from heaven. (2) A type of the true holy Church which was at that time in the Jewish
nation. This Church (as is the state of the Catholic church) did in itself shine with glory given by
God, immutable and unchangeable, and possessed the kingdom of heaven as the heir of it.

#BCV:Revelation 12:3
<h3><verse=Revelation 12:2>Revelation 12:2</verse></h3>

And (3) she being with child cried, travailing in birth, and pained to be delivered.

(3) For this is the barren woman who had not given birth; (<bcv=Isa 45:1>Isa 45:1</bcv>;<bcv=Gal 4:27> Gal 4:27</bcv>). She cried out with
good cause, and was tormented at that time, when in the judgment of all she seemed near to death,
about to die because of her weakness and poverty.

#BCV:Revelation 12:3-6
And there appeared another wonder in heaven; (4) and behold a great red dragon, having (5) seven
heads and ten (6) horns, and seven crowns upon his heads.

(4) That is the devil or Satan, see (<bcv=Rev 12:9>Rev 12:9</bcv>), mighty, angry and full of wrath. (5) By this to withstand
those seven churches spoken of, that is, the catholic church, and that with kingly objects and
tyrannical magnificence: signified by the crowns set on his heads, as if they belonged to him by the
proper right, without controversy: as also he boasted to Christ; See (<bcv=Mat 4:9>Mat 4:9</bcv>;<bcv=Rev 13:1> Rev 13:1</bcv>). (6) More than
<page=3377>the horns of the Lamb, or than the churches are: so well equipped does the tyrant brag himself to
be, to do all manner of wickedness.

#BCV:Revelation 12:7
<h3><verse=Revelation 12:7>Revelation 12:7</verse></h3>

(7) And his tail drew the third part of the stars of heaven, and did cast them to the earth: and the
dragon (8) stood before the woman which was ready to be delivered, for (9) to devour her child as
soon as it was born.

(7) After the description of Satan follows this action, that is, his battle with the Church partly to that
which is visible, in which the wheat is mingled with the chaff, and the good fish with that which is
evil: its good part, though in appearance it shined as the stars shine in heaven, he is said to thrust
down out of heaven, and to pervert: for if it were possible he would pervert even the elect <bcv=Mat 24:24>(Mat
24:24)</bcv> and partly to the elect members of the holy catholic church in the second part of this verse.
Many therefore of the members of this visible Church (says John) he overthrew and triumphed on
them. (8) He withstood that elect Church of the Jews which was now ready to bring forth the
Christian Church and watched for her to give birth. For the whole Church, and whole body is
compared to a woman: and a part of the Church to that which is brought forth, as we have noted in
(Sol 7:6). (9) Christ mystical (as they call him) that is, the whole Church, consists of the person of
Christ as the head and of the body united to it by the Spirit, so is the name of Christ taken on (<bcv=1Co 12:12>Co1 12:12</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 12:10-11
<h3><verse=Revelation 12:10>Revelation 12:10</verse></h3>

(10) And she brought forth a man (11) child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron: and her
child was caught up unto God, and [to] his throne.

(10) The second history of this Church delivered of child: in which first the consideration of the
child born, and of the mother, is described in two verses (<bcv=Rev 12:6>Rev 12:6</bcv>): secondly the battle of the dragon against the young child, and the victory obtained against him in the three verses following
(<bcv=Rev 12:7-9>Rev 12:7-9</bcv>): last of all is sung a song of victory, to (<bcv=Rev 12:10-12>Rev 12:10-12</bcv>). Now John in consideration of the
child born, notes two things: for he describes him, and his station or place in this verse.

(11) That is Christ the head of the Church joined with his Church (the beginning root and
foundation of which is the same Christ) endued with kingly power and taken up into heaven out of
the jaws of Satan (who as a serpent did bite him on the cross) that sitting on the heavenly throne, he
might reign over all.

#BCV:Revelation 12:12-13
<h3><verse=Revelation 12:12>Revelation 12:12</verse></h3>

(12) And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she hath a place prepared of God, that (13)
they should feed her there a thousand two hundred [and] threescore days.

<page=3378>(12) The Church of Christ which was of the Jews, after his ascension into heaven, hid itself in the
world as in a wilderness, trusting only in the defence of God, as Luke witnesses in Acts.

(13) Namely the apostles and servants of God ordained to feed with the word of life, the Church
collected both of the Jews and Gentiles unless any man will take the word <latin>"alerent"<english> impersonally
after the use of the Hebrews, instead of <latin>"aleretur"<english> but I like the first better. For he has respect to
those two prophets, of whom<bcv=Rev 11:3> Revelation 11:3</bcv> speaks. As for the meaning of the 1290 days, see the same.

#BCV:Revelation 12:13-14
<h3><verse=Revelation 12:14>Revelation 12:14</verse></h3>

And there was war in heaven: (14) Michael and his angels fought against the dragon; and the dragon
fought and his angels,

(14) Christ is the Prince of angels and head of the Church, who bears that iron rod (<bcv=Rev 12:5>Rev 12:5</bcv>). Also
See<bcv=Dan 12:1> Dan 12:1</bcv>. In this verse a description of the battle and of the victory in the two verses following

(<bcv=Rev 12:8-9>Rev 12:8-9</bcv>). The psalmist noted this battle as did Paul; (<bcv=Psa 68:9>Psa 68:9</bcv>;<bcv=Eph 4:8> Eph 4:8</bcv>;<bcv=Col 2:15> Col 2:15</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 12:15
<h3><verse=Revelation 12:15>Revelation 12:15</verse></h3>

(15) And prevailed not; neither was their (a) place found any more in heaven.

(15) The description of the victory, by the denying of the thing in this verse, and by affirming the
opposite in (<bcv=Rev 12:9>Rev 12:9</bcv>). As Satan gained nothing in heaven, but was by the power of God thrown
down into the world of which he is the prince, Christ himself and his elect members standing still
by the throne of God.

(a) They were cast out so, that they were never seen any more in heaven.

#BCV:Revelation 12:15-16
<h3><verse=Revelation 12:16>Revelation 12:16</verse></h3>

And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven, (16) Now is come salvation, and strength, and the
kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ: for the accuser of our brethren is cast down,
which accused them before our God day and night.

(16) The song of victory or triumph containing first, a proposition of the glory of God and of
Christ shown in that victory: secondly, it contains a reason for the same proposition, taken from the
effects, as the enemy is overcome in battle, in this verse, and the godly are made conquerors (and
more than conquerors) (<bcv=Rom 8:37>Rom 8:37</bcv>). Thirdly a conclusion, in which is an exhortation to the angels,
and to the saints: and to the word, a prophecy of great misery, and of destruction obtained by the
devil against mankind, since he himself will soon be miserable (<bcv=Rev 12:12>Rev 12:12</bcv>).

<page=3379>And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they (b)
loved not their lives unto the death.

(b) He is said in the Hebrew tongue, to love his life, who values his life more than anything else: and
on the other side, he is said not to love his life, who does not hesitate to risk it, if need requires it.

#BCV:Revelation 12:17
<h3><verse=Revelation 12:17>Revelation 12:17</verse></h3>

And when (17) the dragon saw that he was cast unto the earth, he persecuted the woman which
brought forth the man [child].

(17) The third part: a history of the woman delivered, consisting of two parts, the present battle of
Satan against the Christian Church of the Jewish nation, in (<bcv=Rev 12:13-16>Rev 12:13-16</bcv>): and the battle intended
against the Church of the Gentiles, which is called holy by reason of the gospel of Christ in (Rev
12:17).

#BCV:Revelation 12:18
<h3><verse=Revelation 12:18>Revelation 12:18</verse></h3>

(18) And to the woman were given two wings of a great eagle, that she might fly into the wilderness,
into her (c) place, where she is nourished for a (19) time, and times, and half a time, from the face
of the serpent.

(18) That is, being strengthened with divine power: and taught by oracle, she fled swiftly from the
assault of the devil, and from the common destruction of Jerusalem and went into a solitary city
beyond Jordan called Pella as Eusebius tells in the first chapter of the third book of his ecclesiastical
history: where God had commanded her by revelation.

(c) Into the place God had prepared for her.

(19) That is, for three and a half years: so the same speech
is taken in See<bcv=Dan 7:25> Dan 7:25</bcv>. This space of time is reckoned in manner from that last and most grievous
rebellion of the Jews, to the destruction of the city and temple,for their defection or falling away,
began in the twelfth year of Nero, before the beginning of which many signs and predictions were
shown from heaven, as Josephus wrote, lib.7, chap.12, and Hegesippus lib.5, chap.44, among which
this is very memorable. In the feast of Pentecost not only a great sound and noise was heard in the
Temple, but also a voice was heard by many out of the Sanctuary which cried out to all, Let us
depart from here. Now three and a half years after this defection by the Jews began, and those
wonders happened, the city was taken by force, the temple overthrown, and the place forsaken by
God: and the length of time John noted in this place.

#BCV:Revelation 12:20
<h3><verse=Revelation 12:20>Revelation 12:20</verse></h3>

<page=3380>(20) And the serpent cast out of his mouth water as a flood after the woman, that he might cause
her to be carried away of the flood.

(20) That is, he inflamed the Romans and the nations that in persecuting the Jewish people with
cruel arms, they might at the same time invade the Church of Christ, now departed from Jerusalem
and out of Judea. For it is a normal thing in scripture, that the raging tumults of the nations should
be compared to waters.

#BCV:Revelation 12:21
<h3><verse=Revelation 12:21>Revelation 12:21</verse></h3>

(21) And the earth helped the woman, and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed up the flood
which the dragon cast out of his mouth.

(21) That is, there was offered in their place other Jews, to the Romans and nations raging against
that people: and it came to pass by this that the Church of God was saved entirely from that
violence, that most raging flood of persecution which the dragon vomited out being completely
exhausted in the destroying of those other Jews.

#BCV:Revelation 12:22
<h3><verse=Revelation 12:22>Revelation 12:22</verse></h3>

(22) And the dragon was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her
seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.

(22) Being set on fire by this means, he began to be more mad, and because he perceived that his
purpose against the Christian Church of the Jewish remnant was come to nothing, he resolved to
fall on her seed, that is, the Church of the Gentiles, gathered by God and the holy members of the
church. This is that other part, as is said in (<bcv=Rev 12:13>Rev 12:13</bcv>) in which the purpose of Satan is shown in (<bcv=Rev 12:17>Rev 12:17</bcv>) and his attempt, in (<bcv=Rev 13:1>Rev 13:1</bcv>).

<h2>Revelation 13</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 13:1
<h3><verse=Revelation 13:1>Revelation 13:1</verse></h3>

<page=3381>(23) And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and (1) saw a beast rise up (2) out of the sea, having
seven heads and (3) ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, (4) and upon his heads (5) the name
of blasphemy.

(23) That is, as a mighty tempest he poured out on the whole world (whose prince he is) to raise the
floods and provoke the nations, that they might with their furious bellows toss up and down, driven
here and there, and finally destroy the Church of Christ with its holy members. But the providence
of God resisted his attempt, that he might save the Church of the Gentiles, yet tender and green.
The rest of this story of the dragon is excellently presented by the apostle John later in (<bcv=Rev 20:1-15>Rev 20:1-15</bcv>).
For here the dragon endeavouring to do wickedness, was by God cast into prison. (1) The apostle
having declared the forming of the Christian Church, and the state of the Church from which ours
takes her beginning, now goes to the story of the progress of it, as is shown in the beginning of the
former chapter. This history of the progress of the Church and the battles of it, is recorded in this
chapter, but distinctly in two parts, one is of the civil Roman Empire, (<bcv=Rev 13:1-10>Rev 13:1-10</bcv>). Another of the
ecclesiastic or prophetic body, there to the end of the chapter. In the first part these things are
shown: First the state of the Empire, in (<bcv=Rev 13:1-4>Rev 13:1-4</bcv>) then the acts of it in (<bcv=Rev 13:5-7>Rev 13:5-7</bcv>) after the effect:
which is exceedingly great glory (<bcv=Rev 13:8>Rev 13:8</bcv>). Last of all is commended the use: and the instruction of
the godly against the evils that shall come from the same in (<bcv=Rev 13:9-10>Rev 13:9-10</bcv>). The history of the state,
contains a most ample description of the beast, first entire in (<bcv=Rev 13:1-2>Rev 13:1-2</bcv>) and then restored after
harm, (<bcv=Rev 13:3-4>Rev 13:3-4</bcv>). (2) On the sand where the devil stood practising new tempests against the
Church, in the verse next before going: at which time the Empire of Rome was endangered by
domestic dissensions and was mightily tossed, having ever and again new heads, and new emperors.
See (<bcv=Rev 17:8>Rev 17:8</bcv>) (3) Having the same instruments of power, providence, and most expert government
which the dragon is said to have had, in (<bcv=Rev 12:3>Rev 12:3</bcv>). (4) We read in (<bcv=Rev 12:3>Rev 12:3</bcv>) that the dragon had
seven crowns set upon seven heads because the thief claims to be proper lord and prince of the
world, but this beast is said to have ten crowns, set on several, not heads but horns: because the
beast is obligated to the dragon for all; (<bcv=Rev 13:2>Rev 13:2</bcv>) and does not otherwise reign, then by law of
subjection given by him, namely that he employ his horns against the Church of God. The speech is
taken from the ancient custom and form of dealing in such ease: by which they that were absolute
kings did wear the diadem on their heads: but their vassals and such as reigned by grace from them,
wore the same on their hoods: for so they might commodiously lay down their diadems when they
came into the presence of their sovereigns, as also the elders are said, when they adored God which
sat upon the throne, to have cast down their crowns before him in (<bcv=Rev 4:10>Rev 4:10</bcv>)

(5) Contrary to that which God of old commanded should be written in the head piece of the high
Priest, that is, "Sanctitas Jehova", Holiness unto the Lord. The name of blasphemy imposed by the
dragon, is that which Paul says in (<bcv=II Th 2:4>Th2 2:4</bcv>) "He sits as God and boasts himself to be God" For this
name of blasphemy both the Roman Emperors did then challenge to themselves, as Suetonius and
Dion do report of Caigula and Domitian: and after them the popes of Rome professed the same of
<page=3382>themselves, when they challenged to themselves sovereignty in holy things of which kind of sayings
the sixth book of the Decretals, the Clementines, and the Extravagants, are very full. For these men
were not content with that which Anglicus wrote in his Poetria, (the beginning of which is <latin>"Papa
stupor mundi"<english> The pope is the wonder of the world) <latin>"Nec Deus es, nec homo, sed neuter es inter
utrungue."<english> Thou art not God, nor art thou man, but neuter mixed of both: as the gloss witnesses on
the sixth book: But they were bold to take to themselves the very name of God, and to accept it
given of other: according as almost a hundred and twenty years since there was made for Sixtus the
fourth, when he should first enter into Rome in his papal dignity, a Pageant of triumph, and
cunningly fixed upon the gate of the city he should enter at, having written upon it this
blasphemous verse: <latin>"Oraclo vocis mundi moderaris habenas, Et merito in terrs crederis esse Deus."<english>
That is, By oracle of thine own voice, the world thou governest all, And worthily a God on earth
men think and do thee call. These and six hundred the like who can impute to that modesty by
which good men of old would have themselves called the servants of the servants of God? Verily
either this is a name of blasphemy, or there is none at all.

#BCV:Revelation 13:5-7
<h3><verse=Revelation 13:6>Revelation 13:6</verse></h3>

And the beast which I saw was like (6) unto a leopard, and his feet were as [the feet] of a bear, and
his mouth as the mouth of a lion: (7) and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great
authority.

(6) Swift as the leopard, easily grabbing all things, as the bear does with his foot, and tearing and
devouring all things with the mouth as a lion does. (7) That is, he lent the same power to the beast to
use, when he perceived that he could not escape, but must be taken by the hand of the angel, and
cast into the bottomless pit; (<bcv=Rev 20:1-15>Rev 20:1-15</bcv>) yet he did abandon the same power completely from
himself, but that he might use it as long as he could.

#BCV:Revelation 13:38
<h3><verse=Revelation 13:8>Revelation 13:8</verse></h3>

(8) And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and
all the world wondered after the beast.

(8) This is the other place that pertains to the description of the beast of Rome: that besides that
natural dignity, and breadth of the Roman Empire, which was eluded to in the two former verses,
there was added this also as miraculous, that one head was wounded as it were to death, and was
healed again as from heaven, in the sight of all men. This head was Nero the Emperor, in whom the
race of the Caesars fell from imperial dignity, and the government of the commonwealth was
translated to others: in whose hands the Empire was so cured and recovered to health, as he seemed
to all so much the more deeply rooted and grounded fast, than ever before. Hence follows those
effects, which are next spoken of: First an admiration of certain power, as it were, sacred and divine,
sustaining the Empire and governing it: Secondly, the obedience and submission of the whole earth,
in this verse: Thirdly, the adoration of the dragon, and most wicked worshipping of devils
<page=3383>confirmed by the Roman Emperors: Lastly, the adoration of the beast himself, who grew into so
great estimation, as that both the name and worship of a God was given to him, (<bcv=Rev 13:4>Rev 13:4</bcv>). Now
there were two causes which brought in the minds of men this religion: the show of excellency,
which brings with it reverence: and the show of power invincible, which brings fear. Who is like (say
they) to the beast? Who shall be able to fight with him?

#BCV:Revelation 13:9-10
<h3><verse=Revelation 13:9-10>Revelation 13:9</verse></h3>

(9) And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was
given unto him (10) to continue forty [and] two months.

(9) The second part containing a history of the acts of the beast, as I said See<bcv=Rev 13:1> Rev 13:1</bcv>". The history
of them is concluded in two points: the beginning, and the manner of them. The beginning is the
gift of the dragon, who put and inspired into the beast both his impiety against the godly and those
that were of the household of faith, in (<bcv=Rev 13:5>Rev 13:5</bcv>) The manner of the acts or actions done, is of two
sorts, both impious in mind, and blasphemous in speech against God, his Church and the godly in
(<bcv=Rev 13:6>Rev 13:6</bcv>) and also most cruel and injurious in deeds, even such as were done of most raging
enemies, and of most insolent and proud conquerors in (<bcv=Rev 13:7>Rev 13:7</bcv>)

(10) Namely his actions, and manner of dealing. As concerning those two and forty months, I have
spoken of them before. See<bcv=Rev 12:6> Rev 12:6</bcv>

#BCV:Revelation 13:10-12
<h3><verse=Revelation 13:11>Revelation 13:11</verse></h3>

And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, (11) and his
tabernacle, (12) and them that dwell in heaven.

(11) That is, the holy Church, the true house of the living God.

(12) That is, the godly who as a group hid themselves from his cruelty. For this bloody beast charged
those holy souls falsely with innumerable accusations for the name of Christ as we read in Justin
Martyr, Tertullian, Arnobius, Minutius, Eusebius, Augustine and others: whose example the latter
times followed most diligently, in destroying the flock of Christ: and we in our own memory have
found by experience, to our incredible grief. Concerning heaven, see in (<bcv=Rev 11:12>Rev 11:12</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 13:12-13
<h3><verse=Revelation 13:13>Revelation 13:13</verse></h3>

And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, (13) whose names are not written in the book
of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.

(13) That is, such as are not from everlasting elected in Christ Jesus. For this is that Lamb slain; (Rev
5:6). These words I do with Aretas, distinguish in this manner: whose names are not written from
the laying of the foundation of the world, in the book of Life, of the Lamb slain. This distinction is
confirmed by a similar verse in (<bcv=Rev 17:8>Rev 17:8</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 13:9
<h3><verse=Revelation 13:9>Revelation 13:9</verse></h3>

<page=3384>(14) If any man have an ear, let him hear.

(14) The conclusion of this speech of the first beast, consisting of two parts, an exhortation to
attentive audience, in this verse: and a foretelling, which partly contains threatenings against the
wicked and partly comfort for those who in patience and faith shall wait for that glorious coming of
our Lord and Saviour Christ; (<bcv=Rev 13:10>Rev 13:10</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 13:15-16
<h3><verse=Revelation 13:15>Revelation 13:15</verse></h3>

(15) And I beheld another beast coming up out of the earth; (16) and he had two horns like a lamb,
and he spake as a dragon.

(15) The second part of the vision, concerning the ecclesiastical dominion, which in Rome
succeeded that which was politic, and is in the power of the corporation of false prophets and of
the forgers of false doctrine. Therefore the same beast, and the body or corporation is called a false
prophet by John; (<bcv=Rev 16:13>Rev 16:13</bcv>,<bcv=Rev 19:20> Rev 19:20</bcv>). The form of this beast is first described in this verse, then
his acts in the verses following: and the whole speech is concluded in the last verse. This beast is by
his breed, a son of the earth (as they say) obscurely born, and little by little creeping up out of his
abject estate.

(16) That is, in show he resembled the Lamb (for what is more mild or more humble then to be the
servant of the servants of God? but indeed he played the part of the dragon, and of the wolf; <bcv=Mat 7:15>(Mat 7:15).</bcv> For even Satan changes himself into an angel of light; (<bcv=2Co 11:14>Co2 11:14</bcv>) and what should his honest disciples and servants do?

#BCV:Revelation 13:17-18
<h3><verse=Revelation 13:17>Revelation 13:17</verse></h3>

(17) And he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before him, and causeth the earth and them
which dwell therein (18) to worship the first beast, whose deadly wound was healed.

(17) The history of the acts of this beast contains in sum three things, hypocrisy, the witness of
miracles and tyranny: of which the first is noted in this verse, the second in the three verses
following: the third in the sixteenth and seventeenth verses. His hypocrisy is most full of lies, by
which he abuses both the former beast and the whole world: in that though he has by his cunning,
as it were by line, made of the former beast a most miserable skeleton or anatomy, usurped all his
authority to himself and most impudently exercises the same in the sight and view of him: yet he
carries himself so as if he honoured him with most high honour, and did truly cause him to be
reverenced by all men.

(18) For to this beast of Rome, which of civil Empire is made an ecclesiastical hierarchy, are given
divine honours, and divine authority so far, as he is believed to be above the scriptures, which the
<page=3385>gloss upon the Decretals declares by this devilish verse. <latin>"Articulos solvit, synodumque facit
generalem"<english> That is, "He changes the Articles of faith, and gives authority to general Councils."
Which is spoken of the papal power. So the beast is by birth, foundation, feat, and finally substance,
one: only the Pope has altered the form and manner of it, being himself the head both of that
tyrannical empire, and also of the false prophets: for the empire has he taken to himself, and to it
added this cunning device. Now these words, "whose deadly wound was cured" are put here for
distinction sake, as also sometimes afterwards: that even at that time the godly readers of this
prophecy might by this sign be brought to see the thing as present: as if it were said, that they might
adore this very empire that now is, whose head we have seen in our own memory to have been cut
off, and to be cured again.

#BCV:Revelation 13:19
<h3><verse=Revelation 13:19>Revelation 13:19</verse></h3>

(19) And he doeth great wonders, so that he maketh fire come down from heaven on the earth in
the sight of men,

(19) The second point of the things done by the beast, is the credit of great wonders or miracles,
and pertaining to the strengthening of this impiety: of which signs some were given from above, as
it is said, that fire was sent down from heaven by false sorcery, in this verse. Others were shown here
below in the sight of the beast, to establish idolatry, and deceive souls: which part John sets forth,
beginning (as they say) at that which is last, in this manner: First, the effect is declared in these words,
"He deceives the inhabitants of the earth". Secondly, the common manner of working, in two sorts:
one of miracles, "for the signs which were given him to do in the presence of the beast", the other
of the words added to the signs, and teaching the idolatry by those signs "saying to the inhabitants
of the earth, that they should make an image to the beast, which etc." Thirdly, a special manner is
declared, "That it is given to him to put life into the image of the beast" and that such a type of
quickening, that the same both speaks by answer to those that ask counsel of it, and also
pronounces death against all those that do not obey nor worship it: all things which oftentimes by
false miracles through the procurement and inspiration of the devil, have been effected and wrought
in images. The histories of the papists are full of examples of such miracles, the most of them false,
many also done by the devil in images, as of old in the serpent; (<bcv=Gen 3:5>Gen 3:5</bcv>). By which example is
confirmed, not the authority of the beast, but the truth of God and these prophecies.

#BCV:Revelation 13:19-21
<h3><verse=Revelation 13:20>Revelation 13:20</verse></h3>

And deceiveth them that dwell on the earth by [the means of] those miracles which he had power to
do in the sight of the beast; saying to them that dwell on the earth, that they should make an (20)
image to the (21) beast, which had the wound by a sword, and did live.

(20) That is, images, by "enallage" or change of the number: for the worship of them ever since the
second Council of Nicea, has been ordained in the Church by public credit and authority, contrary
to the Law of God.

<page=3386>(21) In the Greek the word is in the Dative case, as much to say, as to the worship, honour and
obeying of the beast: for by this maintenance of images, this pseudo-prophetical beast mightily
profits the beast of Rome, of whom long ago he received them. Wherefore the same is hereafter
fittingly called the image of the beast, for images have their beginning from the beast, and have their
form or manner from the will of the beast, and have their end and use fixed in the profit and
commodity of the beast.

#BCV:Revelation 13:22
<h3><verse=Revelation 13:22>Revelation 13:22</verse></h3>

(22) And he had power to give (a) life unto the image of the beast, that the image of the beast
should both speak, and cause that as many as would not worship the image of the beast should be
killed.

(22) The papists books are full of these miracles of the images of the beast, (that is, which the beast
ordained to establish idolatry) which miraculously speak, and give judgment, or rather astonishingly,
by the fraud of the false prophets.

(a) To give life, as Jannes and Jambres imitated the miracles that Moses did.

#BCV:Revelation 13:23-24
<h3><verse=Revelation 13:23>Revelation 13:23</verse></h3>

(23) And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive (24) a (b)
mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads:

(23) The third point is a cruel exercise of power, as was said before, usurped over men, in this verse:
and over their goods and actions, in the next verse. For he is said, to bring on all persons a cruel
slavery, that as bondslaves they might serve the beast. Also he is said to exercise over all their goods
and actions, an abuse of indulgences and dispensations (as they term them) among their friends and
against others, to use most violent prohibitions, and to curse, even in natural and civil, private and
public contracts, in which all good faith ought to have place.

(24) That is their consecrated oil, by which in the ordinance (as they call it) of confirmation, they
make servants for themselves, the persons and doings of men, signing them in their forehead and
hands. They make the sign left by Christ, see (<bcv=Rev 7:3>Rev 7:3</bcv>) and the ordinance of baptism useless. For
whom Christ has joined to himself as signified by baptism this beast challenges with his greasy
consecrated oil, which he does not hesitate to prefer over baptism, both in authority and value.

(b) The mark of the name of the beast.

#BCV:Revelation 13:24-26
<h3><verse=Revelation 13:25>Revelation 13:25</verse></h3>

And that no man might (25) buy or sell, save he that had the (26) mark, or the name of the beast, or
the number of his name.

<page=3387>(25) That is, have any trade or dealings with men, but only those who have this annointing and
consecration of Clearkely shaving of the head, as they call it, read Gratian <latin>"de Consecratione,
distincione tertia.c.omnes.cap spiritus, etc."<english> of these matters.

(26) Here the false prophets require three things, set down in the order of their greatness, a
character, a name, and the number of the name. The meaning is, that man that does not have their
first annointing and clerical shaving of the head: secondly holy orders, by which is communicated
the name of the beast: or finally has not attained that high degree of pontifical knowledge, and of
the law (as they call it) canonical, and has not made up in account and cast the number of the
mysteries of it: for in these things consists the number of the name of the beast. This is excellently
set forth in the next verse.

#BCV:Revelation 13:27-28
<h3><verse=Revelation 13:27>Revelation 13:27</verse></h3>

(27) Here is wisdom. Let him that hath understanding count the number of the beast: for it is the

(28) number of a man; and his number [is] Six hundred threescore [and] six.

(27) That is, in this number of the beast consists that popish wisdom, which to them seems the
greatest of all others. In these words John expounds the saying that went before the number of the
beast, what it has above his distinctive mark and his name. These things, says John, the mark and the
name of the beast, is wisdom: that is, only the wise and such as have understanding, can come by
that number: for they who would attain it must be knowledgeable doctors, as the words following
declare.

(28) How great and of what denomination this number of the beast is by which the beast accounts
his wisdom, John declares in these words, "Do you demand how great it is?" It is so great, that it
occupies the whole man: he is always learning, and never comes to the knowledge of it: he must be a
man in deed that does attain to it. You ask what denomination it is? Truly it is six throughout, all the
parts of it in their denominations (as they term them) it stands of six by units, tens, hundreds, etc.
There is not one part in the pontifical learning and order, which is not either referred to the head,
the top of it, or contained in the same: so fitly do all things in this hierarchy agree with one another,
and with their head. Therefore that cruel beast Boniface the eighth, does commend by the number
of six those Decretals which he perfected: in the sixth book. "Which book (he says) being to be
added to five other books of the same volume of Decretals, we thought good to name Sextum the
sixth: that the same volume by addition of it, containing a senary, or the number of six books
(which is a number perfect) may yield a perfect form of managing all things, and perfect discipline
of behaviour." Here therefore is the number of the beast, who empowers from himself all his parts,
and brings them all back to himself by his discipline in most wise and cunning manner. If any man
desires more of this, let him read the gloss on that place. I am not ignorant that other interpretations
are given in this place; but I thought it my duty, with the good favour of all, and without the offence
of any, to propound my opinion in this point. For this cause especially, since it seemed to me neither
profitable, nor likely to be true, that the number of the beast, or the name of the beast should be
taken as the common interpreters take it. This number of the beast teaches, gives out, imprints, as a
<page=3388>public mark of those who are his, and esteems that mark above all others, as the mark of those
whom he loves best. Now those other expositions seem to be far removed from this property and
condition of that number: whether you respect the name Latinus, or Titan, or any other. For these
the beast does not teach, nor give forth, nor imprint, but most diligently forbids to be taught, and
audaciously denies: he does not approve them, but reproves them: and hates those that think so of
this number, with a hatred greater then that of Vatinius.

<h2>Revelation 14</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 14:1-3
<h3><verse=Revelation 14:1>Revelation 14:1</verse></h3>

<page=3389>And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb (1) stood on the mount Sion, and with him (2) an hundred forty [and]
four thousand, having his Father's (3) name written in their foreheads.

(1) The history of the Church of Christ being finished for more than a 1300 years at which time
Boniface the eighth lived as has been said: there remains the rest of the history of the conflicting or
militant church, from there to the time of the last victory in three chapters. For first of all, as the
foundation of the whole history, is described the standing of the Lamb with his army and retinue in
five verses, after his worthy acts which he has done and yet does in most mighty manner, while he
overthrows Antichrist with the spirit of his mouth, in the rest of this chapter and in the two
following. To the description of the Lamb, are propounded three things: his situation, place and
attendance: for the rest are expounded in the former visions, especially in the fifth chapter. (2)
Prepared to do his office see (<bcv=Acts 7:56>Act 7:56</bcv>), in the midst of the church, which mount Zion pictured
before. (3) This retinue of the Lamb is described first by divine mark (as before in) (<bcv=Rev 7:2>Rev 7:2</bcv>) in this
verse. Then by divine occupation, in that every one in his retinue most earnestly and sweetly (Rev
14:2) glorify the Lamb with a special song before God and his elect angels. Flesh and blood cannot
hear this song, nor understand, (<bcv=Rev 14:3>Rev 14:3</bcv>). Lastly by their deeds done before, and their sanctification
in that they were virgins, pure from spiritual and bodily fornication, that is, from impiety and
unrighteousness. They followed the Lamb as a guide to all goodness, cleaved to him and are holy to
him, as by grace redeemed by him. In truth and simplicity of Christ they have exercised all these
things, sanctimony of life, the guidance of the Lamb, a thankful remembrance of redemption by
him and finally (to conclude in a word) they are blameless before the Lord, (<bcv=Rev 14:4-5>Rev 14:4-5</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 14:4-5
<h3><verse=Revelation 14:4>Revelation 14:4</verse></h3>

(4) And I saw (5) another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach
unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people,

(4) The other part (as I said in the first verse) See<bcv=Rev 14:1> Rev 14:1</bcv> is of the acts of the Lamb, the manner of
which is delivered in two sorts, of his speech and of his facts. His speeches are set forth to (<bcv=Rev 14:7-13>Rev 14:7-13</bcv>), and his facts to the sixteenth chapter. In the speech of the Lamb, which is the word of the
Gospel, are taught in this place these things: The service of the godly consisting inwardly of
reverence towards God, and outwardly of the glorifying of him: the visible sign of which is
adoration (<bcv=Rev 14:7>Rev 14:7</bcv>). The overthrowing of wicked Babylon, (<bcv=Rev 14:8>Rev 14:8</bcv>) and the fall of every one of
the ungodly who worship the beast, (<bcv=Rev 14:9-11>Rev 14:9-11</bcv>). Finally the state of the holy servants of God both
present, (<bcv=Rev 14:12>Rev 14:12</bcv>) and to come, most blessed, according to the promise of God in (<bcv=Rev 14:13>Rev 14:13</bcv>). (5)
This angel is a type or figure of the good and faithful servants of God, whom God especially from
the time of Boniface the eighth has raised up to the proclaiming of the gospel of Christ, both by
preaching and by writing. So God first, near the time of the same Boniface, used Peter Cassiodorus
<page=3390>an Italian: after, Arnold "de villa nova", a Frenchman, then Occam, dante, Petrarch, after the
"Johannes de rupe casa", a Franciscan: after again, John Wycliff an Englishman, and so continually
one or another to the restoring of the truth, and enlarging of his Church.

#BCV:Revelation 14:6
<h3><verse=Revelation 14:6>Revelation 14:6</verse></h3>

(6) Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come:
and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.

(6) That is, Babylon is destroyed by the sentence and judgment of God: the execution of which John
describes in chapter 18. This voice of the ministers of Christ has continued since the time that
Babylon (which is Rome) has by deliberate counsel and malice questioned the light of the gospel
offered from God.

And there followed another angel, saying, Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she
made all nations drink of the wine of the (a) wrath of her fornication.

(a) Of her fornication, by which God was provoked to wrath.

#BCV:Revelation 14:6-7
<h3><verse=Revelation 14:7>Revelation 14:7</verse></h3>

And the third angel followed them, saying with a loud voice, (7) If any man worship the beast and
his image, and receive [his] mark in his forehead, or in his hand,

(7) That is, will not worship God alone, but will transfer his divine honour to this beast, whether he
do it with his heart, or counterfeiting in show. "For he (says Christ) that denies me before men, him
will I deny before my Father and his angels" (<bcv=Mat 10:32>Mat 10:32</bcv>). This is the voice of the holy ministry, which
at this time is used of the holy and faithful servants of God. For having now sufficiently found out
the public obstinacy of Babylon, they no longer work to speak out against the same: but to save
some particular members by terror (as Jude speaks) and to pluck them out of the flame: or else lead
them away by vehement commiseration of their state, they set before them eternal death into which
they rush unaware, unless they return to God in time, but the godly who are of their own flock, they
exhort to patience, obedience and faith to others.

#BCV:Revelation 14:8
<h3><verse=Revelation 14:8>Revelation 14:8</verse></h3>

(8) Here is the patience of the saints: here [are] they that keep the commandments of God, and the
faith of Jesus.

(8) The patience, sanctification and justification by faith: the results of which are rest, happiness and
eternal glory in the heavenly fellowship of God and his angels.

<page=3391>And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed [are] the dead which die (b) in the
Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours; and their (c) works
do follow them.

(b) That is, for the Lord.

(c) By works, is meant the reward which follows good works.

#BCV:Revelation 14:9-12
<h3><verse=Revelation 14:9>Revelation 14:9</verse></h3>

(9) And I looked, and behold a (10) white cloud, and upon the cloud [one] sat like unto the Son of
man, (11) having on his head a golden crown, and in his hand a (12) sharp sickle.

(9) The second part of this chapter as I said See<bcv=Rev 14:1> Rev 14:1</bcv>, of the actions of Christ in overthrowing
Antichrist and his church by the Spirit of his divine mouth. Seeing that having been called back by
word both publicly and privately to his duty and admonished of his certain ruin, he does not cease
to maintain and protect his own adherents, that they may serve him: and to afflict the godly with
most barbarous persecutions. Of those things which Christ does, there are two forms: one common
or general in the rest of this chapter another specific against that savage and rebellious beast and his
worshippers in chapter fifteen and sixteen. The common form is the calamity of wars, spread
abroad through the whole earth, and filling all things with blood and without respect of any person.
This is figured or shadowed in two types, of the harvest and vintage. Have you seen how since the
time that the light of the gospel began to shine out, and since prophecy or preaching by the grace of
God was raised up again, horrible wars have been kindled in the world? how much human flesh has
been thrown to the earth by this divine reaping? how much blood (alas for woe) has overflown for
these 100 years almost? all history cries out, and our age (if ever before) is now in horror by reason
of the rage of the sickle which Antichrist calls for. In this place is the first type, that is of the
harvest.

(10) Declaring his fierceness by his colour, like that which is in the white or milk circle of heaven

(11) As one that shall reign from God, and occupy the place of Christ in this miserable execution.

(12) That is, a most fit and convenient instrument of execution, destroying all by showing and
thrusting through: for who may stand against God?

#BCV:Revelation 14:13
<h3><verse=Revelation 14:13>Revelation 14:13</verse></h3>

(13) And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to him that sat on the
cloud, Thrust in thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for thee to reap; for the harvest of the
earth is ripe.

<page=3392>(13) Christ gives a commandment in this verse, and the angel executes it in (Rev 14:16).

#BCV:Revelation 14:14
<h3><verse=Revelation 14:14>Revelation 14:14</verse></h3>

(14) And another angel came out of the temple which is in heaven, he also having a sharp sickle.

(14) The other type (as I said in) See<bcv=Rev 14:14> Rev 14:14</bcv> is the vintage: the manner of which is the same as
that which went before, except for this, that the grape gathering is more exact in seeking out
everything, then is the harvest labour. This is therefore a more grievous judgment, both because it
succeeds the other, and because it is executed with great diligence.

#BCV:Revelation 14:14-15
<h3><verse=Revelation 14:15>Revelation 14:15</verse></h3>

And the winepress was trodden without the city, (15) and blood came out of the winepress, even
unto the horse bridles, by the space of a thousand [and] six hundred furlongs.

(15) That is, overflowed very deep, and very far and wide: the speech is exaggeration to signify the
greatness of the slaughter. These are those pleasant fruits truly, of the contempt of Christ, and
desiring of Antichrist rather than him, which the miserable, mad and blind world reaps at this time.

<h2>Revelation 15</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 15:1-2
<h3><verse=Revelation 15:1>Revelation 15:1</verse></h3>

<page=3393>And (1) I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven (2) angels having the seven last
plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God.

(1) This is that other passage of the acts of Christ, as I noted before See<bcv=Rev 14:14> Rev 14:14</bcv>. Now therefore is
shown a singular work of the judgment of God belonging to the overthrow of Antichrist and his
forces, of which divine work the preparation is described in this chapter: and the execution in the
next. The preparation is first set down generally and in type in this verse: and is after particularly set
forth in the rest of the chapter. (2) Of which (<bcv=Rev 8:9>Rev 8:9</bcv>) in sending forth the plagues of the world: for even these plagues do for the most part agree with those.

#BCV:Revelation 15:3-6
<h3><verse=Revelation 15:3>Revelation 15:3</verse></h3>

(3) And I saw (4) as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and (5) them that had gotten the victory
over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, [and] over the number of his name, (6) stand
on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.

(3) There are two parts of the narration: one, the confession of the saints glorifying God, when they
saw that preparation of the judgments of God, to (<bcv=Rev 15:3-4>Rev 15:3-4</bcv>), another the vocation, instruction,
and confirmation of those instruments which God has ordained for the execution of his judgments,
in (<bcv=Rev 15:5-8>Rev 15:5-8</bcv>). (4) This part of the vision alludes to the sea or large vessel or brass, in which the
priests washed themselves in the entrance of the temple: for in the entrance of the heavenly temple
(as it is called) in (<bcv=Rev 15:5>Rev 15:5</bcv>), is said to have been a sea of glass, most luminous and clear to the
commodity of choice mixed with fire, that is, as containing the treasury of the judgments of God,
which he brings forth and dispenses according to his own pleasure: for out of the former, the priests
were cleansed of old: and out of this the ungodly are destroyed now in (<bcv=Rev 4:6>Rev 4:6</bcv>). (5) That is, the
godly martyrs of Christ, who shall remain faithful even in miracles to that beast; see (<bcv=Rev 13:17>Rev 13:17</bcv>; ) (6)
Glorifying God, from the particular observation of the weapons and instruments of God's wrath,
floating in the sea of glass.

#BCV:Revelation 15:6-7
<h3><verse=Revelation 15:7>Revelation 15:7</verse></h3>

And they sing (7) the song of Moses the (a) servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, (8)
Great and marvellous [are] thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true [are] thy (b) ways, thou
King of saints.

(7) That song of triumph, which is (<bcv=Exo 15:2>Exo 15:2</bcv>).

(a) So is Moses called for honour's sake, as it is set forth in (<bcv=Deu 34:10>Deu 34:10</bcv>). (8) This song has two parts:
one a confession, both particular, in this verse, and general, in the beginning of the next verse (Rev
<page=3394>15:4), another, a narration of causes belonging to the confession, of which one kind is eternal in
itself, and most present to the godly, in that God is both holy and alone God: another kind is future
and to come, in that the elect taken out of the Gentiles (that is, out of the wicked ones and
unbelieving: as in (<bcv=Rev 11:2>Rev 11:2</bcv>) were to be brought to the same state of happiness, by the magnificence
of the judgment of God, in (<bcv=Rev 15:4>Rev 15:4</bcv>).

(b) Thy doings.

#BCV:Revelation 15:9
<h3><verse=Revelation 15:9>Revelation 15:9</verse></h3>


(9) And after that I looked, and, behold, the temple of the tabernacle of the testimony in heaven
was opened:

(9) The second part of the narration (as was noted in) See<bcv=Rev 15:2> Rev 15:2</bcv> in which first the authority of the
whole argument and matter is figured by a forerunning type of a temple opened in heaven, as in
(<bcv=Rev 11:19>Rev 11:19</bcv>) namely that all those things are divine and of God, that proceed from thence in this verse.
Secondly, the administers or executors, come out of the Temple in (<bcv=Rev 15:6>Rev 15:6</bcv>). Thirdly, they are
furnished with instruments of the judgments of God, and weapons fit for the manner of the same
judgments; (<bcv=Rev 15:7>Rev 15:7</bcv>). Finally, they are confirmed by testimony of the visible glory of God, in (Rev
15:8). A similar testimony to which was exhibited of old in the law; (<bcv=Exo 40:34>Exo 40:34</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 15:9-12
<h3><verse=Revelation 15:10>Revelation 15:10</verse></h3>

And the seven angels came out of the temple, having the (10) seven plagues, clothed in (11) pure
and white linen, and having their breasts (12) girded with golden girdles.

(10) That is, commandments to inflict those seven plagues, by way of metonymy.

(11) Which was in old time a sign of the kingly or princely dignity.

(12) This girding was a sign of diligence, and the girdle of gold was a sign of sincerity and
trustworthiness in taking in charge the commandments of God.

#BCV:Revelation 15:12-13
<h3><verse=Revelation 15:13>Revelation 15:13</verse></h3>

And one of the (13) four beasts gave unto the seven angels seven golden vials full of the wrath of
God, who liveth for ever and ever.

(13) Of these before (<bcv=Rev 4:7>Rev 4:7</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 15:13-14
<h3><verse=Revelation 15:14>Revelation 15:14</verse></h3>

And the temple was filled with smoke from the glory of God, and from his power; (14) and no man
was able to enter into the temple, till the seven plagues of the seven angels were fulfilled.

<page=3395>(14) None of those seven angels could return, till he had performed fully the charge committed to
him, according to the decree of God.

<h2>Revelation 16</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 16:1
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:1>Revelation 16:1</verse></h3>

<page=3396>And (1) I heard a great voice out of the temple saying to the seven angels, Go your ways, and pour
out the vials of the wrath of God upon the earth.

(1) In the former chapter was set down the preparation to the work of God: here is delivered the
execution of it. In this discourse of the execution, is a general commandment, in this verse, then a
particular recital in order of the execution done by every of the seven angels, in the rest of the
chapter. This special execution against Antichrist and his crew does in manner agree to that which
was generally done on the whole world, chapters eight and nine and belongs (if my conjecture fail
me not) to the same time. Yet in here they differ from one another, that this was particularly effected
on the princes and ringleaders of the wickedness of the world, the other generally against the whole
world being wicked. Therefore these judgments are more grievous than those.

#BCV:Revelation 16:2-3
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:2>Revelation 16:2</verse></h3>

(2) And the first went, and poured out his vial upon the earth; and there fell a noisome and grievous
sore upon the men which had the (3) mark of the beast, and [upon] them which worshipped his
image.

(2) The history of the first angel, whose plague on the earth is described almost in the same words
with that sixth plague of the Egyptians in (<bcv=Exo 9:9>Exo 9:9</bcv>). But it does signify a spiritual vicar, and that
torture or butchery of conscience seared with a hot iron, which accuses the ungodly within, and
both by truth of the word (the light of which God has now so long shown forth) and by bitterness
stirs up and forces out the sword of God's wrath. (3) See (<bcv=Rev 13:16>Rev 13:16</bcv>)

#BCV:Revelation 16:4
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:4>Revelation 16:4</verse></h3>

(4) And the second angel poured out his vial upon the sea; and it (a) became as the blood of a dead
[man]: and every living soul died in the sea.

(4) The history of the second angel, who troubles and molests the seas, that he may stir up the
conscience of men sleeping in their wickedness; (<bcv=Rev 8:8>Rev 8:8</bcv>).

(a) It was turned into rotten and filthy blood, such as is in dead bodies.

#BCV:Revelation 16:5
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:5>Revelation 16:4</verse></h3>

(5) And the third angel poured out his vial upon the rivers and fountains of waters; and they became
blood.

<page=3397>(5) The story of the third angel striking the rivers, in this verse, who proclaiming the justice of God,
commends the same by a grave comparison of the sins of men, with the punishment of God: which
is common to this place, and that which went before. Wherefore also this praising is attributed to the
angel of the waters, a name common to the second and third angels, according as both of them are
said to be sent against the waters, though the one of the sea, the other of the rivers, in (<bcv=Rev 16:5-6>Rev 16:5-6</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 16:6
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:6>Revelation 16:6</verse></h3>

(6) And I heard another out of the altar say, Even so, Lord God Almighty, true and righteous [are]
thy judgments.

(6) A confirmation of the praise before going out of the sanctuary of God, whether immediately by
Christ, or by some one of his angels, for Christ also is called another angel; (<bcv=Rev 3:8>Rev 3:8</bcv>,<bcv=Rev 7:2> Rev 7:2</bcv>,<bcv=Rev 12:1> Rev 12:1</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 16:7
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:7>Revelation 16:7</verse></h3>

(7) And the fourth angel poured out his vial upon the sun; and power was given unto him to scorch
men with fire.

(7) The story of the fourth angel, who throws the plague on the heavens and on the sun, of which
Luke notes the effects in (<bcv=Luk 21:26>Luk 21:26</bcv>). The one peculiar, that it shall scorch men with heat in this
verse. The other proceeding accidentally from the former, that their fury shall so much more be
enraged against God in (<bcv=Rev 16:9>Rev 16:9</bcv>), when yet (O wonderful mercy and patience of God) all other
creatures are first stricken often and grievously by the hand of God before mankind, by whom he is
provoked: as the things before declare.

#BCV:Revelation 16:8
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:8>Revelation 16:8</verse></h3>

(8) And the fifth angel poured out his vial upon the seat of the beast; and his kingdom was full of
darkness; and they gnawed their tongues for pain,

(8) The story of the first angel, who strikes the kingdom of the beast with two plagues abroad the
darkness, with biles and distresses most grievous, throughout his whole kingdom that by this he
might wound the conscience of the wicked, and punish the perverse obstinacy of the idolaters: of
which arose perturbation, and thence a furious indignation and desperate madness, raging against
God and hurtful to itself.

#BCV:Revelation 16:9-12
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:9>Revelation 16:9</verse></h3>

(9) And the sixth angel poured out his vial upon the great river (10) Euphrates; and (11) the water
thereof was dried up, (12) that the way of the kings of the east might be prepared.

<page=3398>(9) The story of the sixth angel, divided into his act, and the event of it. The act is, that the angel
cast out of his mouth the plague of a most glowing heat, in which even the greatest floods, and
which most were accustomed to swell and overflow (as Euphrates) were dried up, by the counsel of
God in this verse. The event is, that the madness with which the wicked are enraged that they may
scorn the judgments of God, and abuse them furiously to serve their own turn, and to the executing
of their own wicked outrage.

(10) The bound of the spiritual Babylon, and to the fortresses of the same (<bcv=Rev 9:14>Rev 9:14</bcv>).

(11) So the Church of the ungodly, and kingdom of the beast is said to be left naked, all the
defences of it in which they put their trust, being taken away from it.

(12) That is, that even they who dwell further off, may with more convenience make haste to the
sacrifice, which the Lord has appointed.

#BCV:Revelation 16:13-17
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:13>Revelation 16:13</verse></h3>

And I saw (13) three unclean spirits (14) like frogs [come] out of the mouth of the (15) dragon, and
out of the mouth of the (16) beast, and out of the mouth of the (17) false prophet.

(13) That is, every one of them focus their whole force, and conspired that by wonders, word and
work they might bring into the same destruction all kings, princes and potentates of the world,
cursedly bewitched by them by their spirits, and teachers of the vanity and impunity of the beast
that committed fornication with the kings of the earth. This is a good description of our times.

(14) Croaking with all importunity and continually day and night provoking and calling forth to arms,
as the trumpets and furies of wars, as is declared in (<bcv=Rev 16:14>Rev 16:14</bcv>).

(15) That is, the devil; (<bcv=Rev 12:3>Rev 12:3</bcv>)

(16) See (<bcv=Rev 13:1>Rev 13:1</bcv>).

(17) That is, of that other beast; (<bcv=Rev 13:11>Rev 13:11</bcv>), for so he is called also in (<bcv=Rev 19:20>Rev 19:20</bcv>,<bcv=Rev 20:10> Rev 20:10</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 16:18
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:18>Revelation 16:18</verse></h3>

(18) Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed [is] he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk
naked, and they see his shame.

(18) A parenthesis for admonition, in which God warns his holy servants, who rest in the
expectation of Christ, always to think of his coming, and to look to themselves, that they be not
shamefully made naked and circumvented of these unclean spirits, and so they be miserable
unprepared at the coming of the Lord; (<bcv=Mat 24:29>Mat 24:29</bcv>,<bcv=Mat 25:13> Mat 25:13</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 16:19-20
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:19>Revelation 16:19</verse></h3>

<page=3399>(19) And he gathered them together into a place called in the Hebrew tongue (20) Armageddon.

(19) Namely the angel, who according to the commandment of God, was to do sacrifice:
nonetheless that those impure spirits do the same wickedly, as servants not to God, but to the beast
that has seven heads.

(20) That is, (to say nothing of other expositions) the mountain itself, or mountain places of
Megiddon. Now it is certain by the Holy Scripture, that Megiddon is a city and territory in the tribe
of Manasseh, bordering on Issachar and Asher, and was made famous by the lamentable overthrow
of king Josias; (<bcv=2Ch 35:22>Ch2 35:22</bcv>; <bcv=Zec 12:11>Zac 12:11</bcv>). In this mountain country God says by figure or type that the
kings of the people who serve the beast shall meet together; because the Gentiles did always cast
that lamentable overthrow in the teeth of the Church of the Jews, to their great reproach and
therefore were persuaded that that place should be most fortunate to them (as they speak) and
unfortunate to the godly. But God here pronounces, that that reproach of the Church and
confidence of the ungodly, shall by himself be taken away, in the same place where the nations
persuaded themselves, they should mightily exult and triumph against God and his Church.

#BCV:Revelation 16:21-24
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:21>Revelation 16:21</verse></h3>

(21) And the seventh angel poured out his vial into the (22) air; and there came a great voice out of
the temple of heaven, from (23) the throne, saying, (24) It is done.

(21) The story of the seventh angel to the end of the chapter, in which first is shown by sign and
speech, the argument of this plague, in this verse: and then is declare the execution of it in the
verses following.

(22) From whence he might move the heaven above, and the earth beneath.

(23) That is, from him that sits on the throne, by metonymy.

(24) That is, Babylon is undone, as is shown in (<bcv=Rev 16:19>Rev 16:19</bcv>) and in the chapters following. For the first
onset (as I might say) of this denunciation, is described in this chapter: and the last containing a
perfect victory, is described in those that follow.

#BCV:Revelation 16:25
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:25>Revelation 16:25</verse></h3>

(25) And there were voices, and thunders, and lightnings; and there was a great earthquake, such as
was not since men were upon the earth, so mighty an earthquake, [and] so great.

(25) Now is declared the execution (as is said) in (<bcv=Rev 16:17>Rev 16:17</bcv>) and the things that shall last come to
pass in heaven and in earth before the overthrow of the beast of Babylon: both generally in (Rev
16:18) and particularly in the cursed city, and such as have any familiarity with it, in the last verses.

#BCV:Revelation 16:26-28
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:26>Revelation 16:26</verse></h3>

<page=3400>(26) And the great city was divided into three parts, and the cities of the nations (27) fell: and great

(28) Babylon came in remembrance before God, to give unto her the cup of the wine of the
fierceness of his wrath.

(26) The seat or standing place of Antichrist.

(27) Of all who cleave to Antichrist and fight against Christ.

(28) That harlot, of whom in the next chapter following. Now this phrase "to come into
remembrance" is from the Hebrew language, borrowed from men, and attributed to God.

#BCV:Revelation 16:28-29
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:29>Revelation 16:29</verse></h3>

And every island fled away, and the mountains (29) were not (b) found.

(29) That is, were seen no more, or were no more extant. A borrowed Hebraism.

(b) Literally "appeared not"; (<bcv=Gen 5:24>Gen 5:24</bcv>)

#BCV:Revelation 16:30
<h3><verse=Revelation 16:30>Revelation 16:30</verse></h3>

(30) And there fell upon men a great hail out of heaven, [every stone] about the weight of a (c)
talent: and men blasphemed God because of the plague of the hail; for the plague thereof was
exceeding great.

(30) The manner of the particular execution, most evidently testifying the wrath of God by the
original and greatness of it: the event of which is the same with that which is in (<bcv=Rev 9:12>Rev 9:12</bcv>) and that
which has been mentioned in this chapter, from the execution of the fourth angel till now, that is to
say, an incorrigible pertinency of the world in their rebellion, and a heart that cannot repent; (Rev
16:9-10).

(c) About the weight of a talent, and a talent was sixty pounds, that is, six hundred groats, by which
is signified a marvellous and strange weight.

<h2>Revelation 17</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 17:1
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:1>Revelation 17:1</verse></h3>

<page=3401>And (1) there came one of the seven angels which had the seven vials, and talked with me, saying
unto me, Come hither; I will shew unto (2) thee the (a) judgment of the great whore that sitteth
upon many waters:

(1) The state of the Church militant being declared, now follows the state of the church overcoming
and getting victory, as I showed before in the beginning of the tenth chapter. This state is set forth
in four chapters. As in the place before I noted, that in that history the order of time was not always
exactly observed so the same is to be understood in this history, that it is distinguished according to
the people of which it speaks, and that the stories of the people are observed in the time of it. For
first is delivered the story of Babylon destroyed in this and the next chapter (for this Babylon out of
all doubt, shall perish before the two beasts and the dragon). Secondly, is delivered the destruction
of both the two beasts, chapter nineteen and lastly of the dragon, chapter eighteen. In the story of
the spiritual Babylon, are distinctly set forth the state of it in this chapter, and the overthrow done
from the first argument, consisting of the particular calling of the prophet (as often before) and a
general proposition. (2) That is, that damnable harlot, by a figure of speech called "hyppalage". For
John as yet had not seen her. Although another interpretation may be thought of, yet I like this
better.

(a) The sentence that is pronounce against this harlot.

#BCV:Revelation 17:3
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:3>Revelation 17:3</verse></h3>

(3) So he carried me away in the spirit into the wilderness: and I saw a woman sit upon a (b) scarlet
coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy, having seven heads and ten horns.

(3) Henceforth is propounded the type of Babylon, and the state of it, in four verses. After, a
declaration of the type, in the rest of this chapter. In the type are described two things, the beast (of
whom chapter thirteen speaks), in this verse and the woman that sits on the beast in (<bcv=Rev 17:4-6>Rev 17:4-6</bcv>).
The beast in process of time has gotten somewhat more than was expressed in the former vision.
First in that it is not read before that he was apparelled in scarlet, a robe imperial and of triumph.
Secondly, in that this is full of names of blasphemy: the other carried the name of blasphemy only
in his heads. So God teaches that this beast is much increased in impiety and injustice and does in
this last age, triumph in both these more insolently and proudly then ever before.

(b) A scarlet colour, that is, with a red and purple garment: and surely it was not without cause the
romish clergy were so much delighted with this colour.

#BCV:Revelation 17:4-6
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:4>Revelation 17:4</verse></h3>

<page=3402>And (4) the woman was arrayed (5) in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious
stones and pearls, having (6) a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her
fornication:

(4) That harlot, the spiritual Babylon, which is Rome. She is described by her attire, profession, and
deeds. (5) In attire most glorious, triumphant, most rich, and most gorgeous. (6) In profession the
nourisher of all, in this verse and teaching her mysteries to all, (<bcv=Rev 17:5>Rev 17:5</bcv>) setting forth all things most
magnificently: but indeed fatally besetting miserable men with her cup, and brings upon them a
deadly giddiness.

#BCV:Revelation 17:7
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:7>Revelation 17:7</verse></h3>

(7) And upon her forehead [was] a name written, MYSTERY, (8) BABYLON THE GREAT, THE
MOTHER OF HARLOTS AND ABOMINATIONS OF THE EARTH.

(7) Deceiving with the title of religion, and public inscription of mystery: which the beast in times
past did not bear. (8) An exposition: in which John declares what manner of woman this is.

#BCV:Revelation 17:9-10
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:9>Revelation 17:9</verse></h3>

(9) And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the saints, and with the blood of the martyrs
of Jesus: (10) and when I saw her, I wondered with great admiration.

(9) In manner of deeds: She is red with blood, and sheds it most licentiously, and therefore is
coloured with the blood of the saints, as on the contrary part, Christ is set forth imbued with the
blood of her enemies; (<bcv=Isa 63:1>Isa 63:1</bcv>).

(10) A passage to the second part of this chapter, by occasion given of John, as the words of the
angel do show in the next verse.

#BCV:Revelation 17:11
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:11>Revelation 17:1</verse></h3>

(11) And the angel said unto me, Wherefore didst thou marvel? I will tell thee the mystery of the
woman, and of the beast that carrieth her, which hath the seven heads and ten horns.

(11) The second part or place as I said in See<bcv=Rev 17:1> Rev 17:1</bcv>. The narration of the vision promised in the
verse following. Now there is delivered first a narration of the beast and his story, to verse fourteen.
After, of the harlot, to the end of the chapter.

#BCV:Revelation 17:12-14
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:12>Revelation 17:12</verse></h3>

(12) The beast that thou sawest (13) was, and is not; and (14) shall ascend out of the bottomless pit,
and go into perdition: and they that dwell on the earth shall wonder, whose names were not written
<page=3403>in the book of life from the foundation of the world, (15) when they behold the beast that was, and
is not, and yet is.

(12) The story of the beast has a triple description of him. The first is a distinction of this beast
from all that ever have been at any time: which distinction is contained in this verse: The second is a
delineation or painting out of the beast by things present, by which he might even at that time be
known by the godly: and this delineation is according to his heads in (<bcv=Rev 17:12-14>Rev 17:12-14</bcv>). This beast is that
empire of Rome, of which I spoke in See<bcv=Rev 13:11> Rev 13:11</bcv> according to the mutations and changes of
which then had already happened, the Holy Spirit has distinguished and set out the same. The
apostle distinguishes this beast from all others in these words "the beast which thou saw, was and is
not." For so I expound the words of the apostle for the evidence's sake, as I will further declare in
the notes following.

(13) The meaning is, that beast which you saw before in (<bcv=Rev 13:1>Rev 13:1</bcv>) and which you have now seen,
was (was I say) from Julius Caesar in respect to beginning, rising up, station, glory, dominion,
manner and family, from the house of Julius: and yet is not now the same, if you look to the house
and family: for the dominion of this family was translated to another, after the death of Nero from
that other to a third, from a third to a fourth, and so on, was varied and altered by innumerable
changes. Finally, the Empire is one, as it were one beast: but exceedingly varied by kindreds, families,
and persons. It was therefore (says John) in the kindred or house of Julius: and now it is not in that
kindred, but translated to another.

(14) As if he should say, "Also this same that is, shall shortly not be: but shall ascend out of the
depth, or out of the sea" (as was said) in (<bcv=Rev 13:1>Rev 13:1</bcv>) that is, shall be a new stock from among the
nations without difference and shall in the same state go to into destruction, or run and perish: and
so shall successively new princes or emperors come and go, arise and fall, the body of the beast
remaining still, but tossed with many frequent alterations, as no man can but marvel that this beast
was able to stand and hold out, in so many mutations, verily no empire that ever was tossed with so
many changes, and as it were with so many tempests of the sea, ever continued so long.

#BCV:Revelation 17:16-17
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:16>Revelation 17:16</verse></h3>

(16) And here [is] the mind which hath wisdom. The (c) seven heads (17) are seven mountains, on
which the woman sitteth.

(16) An exhortation preparing for the readers in the same argument, as that of Christ "He that hath
ears to hear let him hear". I would rather read in this passage "Let there be here a mind, etc". So the
angel passes to the second place of this description.

(c) Children know what the seven hilled city is, which is so much spoken of, and where of Virgil
thus reports, "And compasses seven towers in one wall", that city it is, which when John wrote these
things, had rule over the kings of the earth. It was and is not, and yet it remains to this day, but it is
declining to destruction.

<page=3404>(17) This is the description of the beast by things present (as I said before) by which John
endeavoured to describe the same, that he might be both known of the godly in that age, and be
further observed and marked of posterity afterwards. This delineation has one tip, that is, his heads,
but a double description or application of the type: one permanent, from the nature itself, the other
changeable, by the working of men. The description permanent, is by the seven hills, in this verse,
the other that flees, is from the seven kings, (<bcv=Rev 17:10-11>Rev 17:10-11</bcv>). Here it is worthy to be observed, that one
type has sometime two or more applications, as seems good to the Holy Spirit to express, either one
thing by various types, or various things by one type. So I noted before of the seven spirits in
See<bcv=Rev 1:4> Rev 1:4</bcv>. Now this woman that sits on seven hills, is the city of Rome, called in times past by the
Greeks, "upon a hill" i. of seven tops or crests and by Varro, "septiceps" i. of her seven heads (as
here) of seven heads, and by others, "septem collis" i. standing upon seven hills.

#BCV:Revelation 17:18-21
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:18>Revelation 17:18</verse></h3>

(18) And there are seven kings: (19) five are fallen, (20) and one is, (21) [and] the other is not yet
come; and when he cometh, he must continue a short space.

(18) The beginning of these kings or emperors is almost the same as the beginning of the Church
of Christ, which I showed before in See<bcv=Rev 11:1> Rev 11:1</bcv>. Namely from the 25th year after the passion of
Christ, at which time the temple and church of the Jews was overthrown. In this year it came to pass
by the providence of God, that that saying "The beast was, and is not" was fulfilled before the
destruction of the Jews immediately following, came to pass. That was 809 years from the building
of the city of Rome at which time John counted the emperors who had been, when he wrote these
things, and foretells two others next to come: and with this purpose, that when this particular
prediction of things to come should take effect, the truth of all other predictions in the Church,
might be the more confirmed. God in ancient times mentioned this sign in the Law and Jeremiah
confirmed it in (<bcv=Deu 18:1-22>Deu. 18:1-22;</bcv><bcv=Jer 28:8> Jer 28:8</bcv>).

(19) Whose names are these: the first, Servius Sulpitius Galba, who was the seventh emperor of the
people of Rome, the second Marcus Salvius Otho, the third Avlus Vitellius, the fourth, Titus Flavius
Vespasianus, the fifth, Titus Vespasianus his son, of his own name.

(20) Flavius Domitian, son of the first Vespasian. For in the latter end of his days John wrote these
things, as witnesses Irenaus; Lib. 5 adversus hareses.

(21) Nerua, The empire being now translated from the family of Flavius. This man reigned only one
year, four months and nine days, as the history writers tell.

#BCV:Revelation 17:22-235
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:22>Revelation 17:22</verse></h3>

(22) And the beast that was, and is not, even he is (23) the eighth, and is (24) of the seven, (25) and
goeth into perdition.

<page=3405>(22) This is spoken by synecdoche, as if to say, as that head of the beast which was and is not,
because it is cut off, and Nerua in so short time extinguished. How many heads there were, so many
beasts there seemed to be in one. See a similar speech in (<bcv=Rev 13:3>Rev 13:3</bcv>).

(23) Nerua Traianus, who in various respects is called here the seventh and the eighth.

(24) Though in number and order of succession he is the eighth yet he is counted with one of these
heads, because Nerua and he were one head. For this man obtained authority together with Nerua
and was Consul with him, when Nerua died.

(25) Namely, to persecute the Churches of Christ, as history agrees, and I have briefly noted See Rev
2:10.

#BCV:Revelation 17:26-28
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:26>Revelation 17:26</verse></h3>

(26) And the ten horns which thou sawest are (27) ten kings, which have received no kingdom as yet;
but receive power as kings (28) one hour with the beast.

(26) The third place of this description, as I said in See<bcv=Rev 17:8> Rev 17:8</bcv> is a prophetical prediction of things
to come, which the beast should do, as in the words following John does not obscurely signify,
saying, "which have not yet received the kingdom, etc". For there is an antithesis or opposition
between these kings, and those that went before. First the persons are described in this verse, then
their deeds, in the two verses following.

(27) That is, arising with their kingdoms out of that Roman beast: at such time as that political
empire began to fall by the plotting of the popes.

(28) Namely, with that second beast, whom we called before a false prophet, who ascending out of
the earth, got to himself all the authority and power of the first beast, and exercised the same before
his face, as was said in (<bcv=Rev 14:11-12>Rev 14:11-12</bcv>). For when the political empire of the west began to bow
downwards, there arose those ten kings, and the second beast took the opportunity offered to usurp
for himself all the power of the former beast. These kings long ago, many have numbered and
described to be ten, and a great part of the events plainly testifies the same in this our age.

#BCV:Revelation 17:29
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:29>Revelation 17:29</verse></h3>

(29) These have one mind, and shall give their power and strength unto the beast.

(29) That is, by consent and agreement, that they may conspire with the beast, and depend on his
call. Their story is divided into three parts, counsels, acts, and events. The counsellors some of them
consist in communicating of judgments and affections: and some in communicating of power,
which they are said to have given to this beast, in this verse.

#BCV:Revelation 17:29-30
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:30>Revelation 17:30</verse></h3>

<page=3406>These shall make war with the (30) Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of
lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him [are] called, and chosen, and faithful.

(30) With Christ and his Church, as the reason following declares, and here are mentioned the facts
and events which followed for Christ's sake, and for the grace of God the Father towards those that
are elected, called, and are his faithful ones in Christ.

#BCV:Revelation 17:31-32
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:31>Revelation 17:31</verse></h3>

(31) And he saith unto me, The waters which thou sawest, where the whore sitteth, (32) are peoples,
and multitudes, and nations, and tongues.

(31) This is the other part of the narration, as I said in See<bcv=Rev 17:7> Rev 17:7</bcv> belonging to the harlot, showed
in the vision, (<bcv=Rev 17:3>Rev 17:3</bcv>). In this history of the harlot, these three things are distinctly propounded,
what is her magnificence, in this verse, what is her fall, and by whom it shall happen to her, in (Rev
17:16-17): and lastly, who that harlot is, in (<bcv=Rev 17:18>Rev 17:18</bcv>). This passage which by order of nature should
have been the first, is therefore made the last, because it was more fit to be joined with the next
chapter.

(32) That is, as changing and variable as the waters. Upon this foundation sits this harlot as queen, a
vain person, on that which is vain.

#BCV:Revelation 17:32-33
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:33>Revelation 17:33</verse></h3>

And the ten (33) horns which thou sawest upon the beast, these shall hate the whore, and shall make
her desolate and naked, and shall eat her flesh, and burn her with fire.

(33) The ten kings, as (<bcv=Rev 17:12>Rev 17:12</bcv>). The accomplishment of this fact and event is daily increased in
this our age by the singular providence and most mighty government of God. Therefore the facts
are propounded in this verse, and the cause of them in the verses following.

#BCV:Revelation 17:34
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:34>Revelation 17:34</verse></h3>

(34) For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the
beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled.

(34) A reason rendered from the chief efficient cause, which is the providence of God, by which
alone John by inversion of order affirms to have come to pass, both that the kings should execute
on the harlot that which pleased God, and which he declared in the verse before: and also that by
one consent and counsel, they should give their kingdom to the beast, etc. (<bcv=Rev 17:13-14>Rev 17:13-14</bcv>) for as these
being blinded have before depended on the call of the beast that lifts up the harlot, so it is said, that
afterward it shall come to pass, that they shall turn back, and shall fall away from her, when their
hearts shall be turned into better state by the grace and mercy of God.

#BCV:Revelation 17:34-35
<h3><verse=Revelation 17:35>Revelation 17:35</verse></h3>

<page=3407>And the woman which thou sawest is that (35) great city, which reigneth over the kings of the earth.

(35) That is, Rome that great city, or only city (as Justinian calls it) the king and head of which was
then the emperor, but now the pope, since the condition of the beast was changed.

<h2>Revelation 18</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 18:1-2
<h3><verse=Revelation 18:1>Revelation 18:1</verse></h3>

<page=3408>And (1) after these things I saw another (2) angel come down from heaven, having great power; and
the earth was lightened with his glory.

(1) The second passage (as I said before) See<bcv=Rev 17:1> Rev 17:1</bcv> of the history of Babylon, is of the woeful fall
and ruin of that whore of Babylon. This historical prediction concerning her, is threefold. The first
a plain and simple foretelling of her ruin, in three verses (<bcv=Rev 18:2-3>Rev 18:2-3</bcv>). The second a figurative
prediction by the circumstances, from there to (Rev. 18:4-20). The third, a confirmation of the same
by sign or wonder, to the end of the chapter (<bcv=Rev 18:21-24>Rev 18:21-24</bcv>). (2) Either Christ the eternal word of
God the Father (as often elsewhere) or a created angel, and one deputed to this service, but
thoroughly provided with greatness of power, and with light of glory, as the ensign of power.

#BCV:Revelation 18:3
<h3><verse=Revelation 18:3>Revelation 18:3</verse></h3>

(3) And he cried mightily with a strong voice, saying, Babylon the great is fallen, is fallen, and is
become the habitation of devils, and the hold of every foul spirit, and a cage of every unclean and
hateful bird.

(3) The prediction of her ruin, containing both the fall of Babylon, in this verse, and the cause of it
uttered by way of allegory concerning her spiritual and carnal wickedness, that is, her most great
impiety and injustice, in (<bcv=Rev 18:3>Rev 18:3</bcv>). Her fall is first declared by the angel, and then the greatness of it
is shown here, by the events when he says it shall be the seat and habitation of devils, of wild beasts,
and of cursed souls, as in (<bcv=Isa 13:21>Isa 13:21</bcv>) and often elsewhere.

#BCV:Revelation 18:4-6
<h3><verse=Revelation 18:4>Revelation 18:4</verse></h3>

(4) And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, (5) Come out of her, my people, that ye (6) be
not partakers of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.

(4) The second prediction, which is of the circumstances of the ruin of Babylon: of these there are
two types: one going before it, as beforehand the godly are delivered, to the ninth verse (<bcv=Rev 18:5-9>Rev 18:5-9</bcv>):
the other following on her ruin, namely the lamentation of the wicked, and rejoicing of the godly, to
the twentieth verse (<bcv=Rev 18:10-20>Rev 18:10-20</bcv>). (5) Two circumstance going before the ruin, are commanded in
this place: one is that the godly depart out of Babylon: as I mentioned in chapter twelve to have
been done in time past, before the destruction of Jerusalem: this charge is given here and in the next
verse. The other is, that every one of them occupy themselves in their own place, in executing the
judgment of God, as it was commanded of the Levites in (<bcv=Exo 32:27>Exo 32:27</bcv>) and that they sanctify their
hands to the Lord. (6) Of this commandment there are two causes: to avoid the contamination of
sin and to shun the participation of those punishments that belong to it.

<page=3409>For her sins have (a) reached unto heaven, and God hath remembered her iniquities.

(a) He uses a word which signifies the following of sins one after another, and rising one of another
in such sort, that they grow at length to such a heap, that they come up even to heaven.

#BCV:Revelation 18:7
<h3><verse=Revelation 18:7>Revelation 18:7</verse></h3>

(7) Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works: in the
cup which she hath filled fill to her double.

(7) The provocation of the godly, and the commandment of executing the judgment of God, stand
on three causes which are here expressed: the unjust wickedness of the whore of Babylon, in this
verse, her cursed pride opposing itself against God, which is the fountain of all evil actions, (Rev
18:7) and her most just damnation by the sentence of God, (<bcv=Rev 18:8>Rev 18:8</bcv>).

How much she hath glorified herself, and lived deliciously, so much torment and sorrow give her:
for she saith (b) in her heart, I sit a queen, and am (c) no widow, and shall (d) see no sorrow.

(b) With herself.

(c) I am full of people and mighty.

(d) I shall taste of none.

Therefore shall her plagues come in (e) one day, death, and mourning, and famine; and she shall be
utterly burned with fire: for strong [is] the Lord God who judgeth her.

(e) Shortly, and at one instant.

#BCV:Revelation 18:7-8
<h3><verse=Revelation 18:9>Revelation 18:9</verse></h3>

And (8) the kings of the earth, who have committed fornication and lived deliciously with her, shall
bewail her, and lament for her, when they shall see the smoke of her burning,

(8) The circumstances following the fall of Babylon, or the consequences of it (as I distinguished
them in) See<bcv=Rev 18:4> Rev 18:4</bcv> are two. Namely the lamentation of the wicked to (<bcv=Rev 18:5-19>Rev 18:5-19</bcv>) and the
rejoicing of the godly in (<bcv=Rev 18:20>Rev 18:20</bcv>). This sorrowful lamentation, according to those that lament, has
three parts: the first of which is the mourning of the kings and mighty men of the earth, (<bcv=Rev 18:9>Rev 18:9-</bcv>
<page=3410>10): The second is, the lamentation of the merchants that trade by land, to the sixteenth verse: (<bcv=Rev 18:11-16>Rev 18:11-16</bcv>). 
The third is, the wailing of those that trade by sea, in (<bcv=Rev 18:16-18>Rev 18:16-18</bcv>). In each of those the
cause and manner of their mourning is described in order, according to the condition of those that
mourn, with observation of that which best agrees to them.

#BCV:Revelation 18:9
<h3><verse=Revelation 18:9>Revelation 18:9</verse></h3>

(9) And the merchants of the earth shall weep and mourn over her; for no man buyeth their
merchandise any more:

(9) The lamentation of those that trade by land, as I distinguished before.

#BCV:Revelation 18:10
<h3><verse=Revelation 18:10>Revelation 18:19</verse></h3>

(10) And the (f) fruits that thy soul lusted after are departed from thee, and all things which were
dainty and goodly are departed from thee, and thou shalt find them no more at all.

(10) An apostrophe, or turning of the speech by imitation, used for more vehemence, as if those
merchants, as mourners, should in passionate speech speak to Babylon, though now utterly fallen
and overthrown; (<bcv=Isa 13:9>Isa 13:9</bcv>) and in many other places.

(f) By this is meant that season which is before the fall of the leaf, at which time fruit ripens, and the
word signifies such fruits as are longed for.

#BCV:Revelation 18:11
<h3><verse=Revelation 18:11>Revelation 18:11</verse></h3>

(11) For in one hour so great riches is come to nought. And every shipmaster, and all the company
in ships, and sailors, and as many as trade by sea, stood afar off,

(11) The manner of mourning used by them that trade by sea.

#BCV:Revelation 18:11-12
<h3><verse=Revelation 18:12>Revelation 18:12</verse></h3>

Rejoice over her, (12) [thou] heaven, and [ye] holy apostles and prophets; for God hath avenged you
on her.

(12) The other consequence on the ruin of Babylon, is the exultation or rejoicing of the godly in
heaven and in earth as was noted in this verse.

#BCV:Revelation 18:13
<h3><verse=Revelation 18:13>Revelation 18:13</verse></h3>

(13) And a mighty angel took up a stone like a great millstone, and cast [it] into the sea, saying, Thus
with violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down, and shall be found no more at all.

<page=3411>(13) The third prediction, as I said See Rev 18:1 based on a sign, and the interpretation of it: the
interpretation of it is in two sorts, first by a simple proposal of the thing itself, in this verse, and
then by declaration of the events, in the verses following.

#BCV:Revelation 18:14
<h3><verse=Revelation 18:14>Revelation 18:14</verse></h3>

(14) And the voice of harpers, and musicians, and of pipers, and trumpeters, shall be heard no more
at all in thee; and no craftsman, of whatsoever craft [he be], shall be found any more in thee; and the
sound of a millstone shall be heard no more at all in thee;

(14) The events are two, and one of them opposite to the other for amplification sake. There shall
be no mirth nor joy at all in Babylon, he says in this and the next verse, (<bcv=Rev 18:23>Rev 18:23</bcv>) but heavy and
lamentable things, from the bloody slaughters of the righteous and the vengeance of God coming
on it for this.

#BCV:Revelation 18:15-16
<h3><verse=Revelation 18:15>Revelation 18:15</verse></h3>

And in her was found the (15) blood of prophets, (16) and of saints, and of all that were slain upon
the earth.

(15) That is shed by bloody massacres, and calling for vengeance.

(16) That is, proved and found out, as if God had appointed a just inquiry concerning the impiety,
unnaturalness and injustice of these men.

<h2>Revelation 19</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 19:1
<h3><verse=Revelation 19:1>Revelation 19:1</verse></h3>

<page=3412>And (1) after these things I heard a great voice of much people in heaven, saying, (a) (2) Alleluia;
Salvation, and glory, and honour, and power, unto the Lord our God:

(1) This chapter has in summary two parts, one transitory or of passage to the things that follow, to
the tenth verse, (<bcv=Rev 19:2-10>Rev 19:2-10</bcv>), another historical of the victory of Christ over both the beasts, to the
end of the chapter (<bcv=Rev 19:11-21>Rev 19:11-21</bcv>), which I said was the second history of this argument, (<bcv=Rev 17:1>Rev 17:1</bcv>).
The transition has two places, one of praising God for the overthrow done to Babylon in (<bcv=Rev 19:4>Rev 19:4</bcv>):
and another likewise of praise and prophecy, for the coming of Christ to his kingdom, and his most
royal marriage with his Church, thence to the tenth verse (<bcv=Rev 19:5-10>Rev 19:5-10</bcv>). The former praise has three
parts, distinguished after the ancient manner of those that sing: an invitation in (<bcv=Rev 19:1-2>Rev 19:1-2</bcv>), a
response or answer in (<bcv=Rev 19:3>Rev 19:3</bcv>), and a close or joining together in harmony in (<bcv=Rev 19:4>Rev 19:4</bcv>), all which I
thought good of purpose to distinguish in this place, lest any man should with Porphyrius, or other
like dogs, object to John, or the heavenly Church, a childish and idle repetition of speech.

(a) Praise the Lord. (2) The proposition of praise with exhortation in this verse, and the cause of it
in (<bcv=Rev 19:2>Rev 19:2</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 19:2-3
<h3><verse=Revelation 19:3>Revelation 19:3</verse></h3>

And again they said, (3) Alleluia. And her smoke rose up for ever and ever.

(3) The song of the Antiphony or response, containing an amplification of the praise of God, from
the continuous and certain testimony of his divine judgment as was done at Sodom and Gomorrah,
(Gen. 19:1-38).

#BCV:Revelation 19:4-5
<h3><verse=Revelation 19:4>Revelation 19:4</verse></h3>

(4) And a voice came out of the (5) throne, saying, Praise our God, all ye his servants, and ye that
fear him, both small and great.

(4) The second place of praise, as I said See<bcv=Rev 19:1> Rev 19:1</bcv> which first is commanded by God in this verse:
and then is in most ample manner pronounced by the creatures, both because they see that kingdom
of Christ to come, which they desire, (<bcv=Rev 19:6>Rev 19:6</bcv>) and also because they see the Church is called forth
to be brought home to the house of her husband by holy marriage, to the fellowship of his
kingdom, (<bcv=Rev 19:7-8>Rev 19:7-8</bcv>). Therefore John is commanded to write in a book the acclamation together
with a divine testimony, (<bcv=Rev 19:9>Rev 19:9</bcv>). (5) Out of the temple from God as in (<bcv=Rev 11:19>Rev 11:19</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 19:5-6
<h3><verse=Revelation 19:6>Revelation 19:6</verse></h3>

<page=3413>And I heard (6) as it were the voice of a great multitude, and as the voice of many waters, and as the
voice of mighty thunderings, saying, Alleluia: for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth.

(6) Outside the temple in heaven.

#BCV:Revelation 19:6-7
<h3><verse=Revelation 19:7>Revelation 19:7</verse></h3>

Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his
wife hath (7) made herself ready.

(7) Namely, to that holy marriage, both herself in person in this verse, and also provided by her
spouse with marriage gifts princely and divine, is adorned and prepared in the next verse.

#BCV:Revelation 19:8-9
<h3><verse=Revelation 19:8>Revelation 19:8</verse></h3>

And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in (8) fine linen, clean and white: for the fine (9)
linen is the (b) righteousness of saints.

(8) As an ensign of kingly and priestly dignity, which Christ bestows on us in (<bcv=Rev 1:6>Rev 1:6</bcv>). (9) This is a
gift given by the husband for marriage sake, and a most choice ornament which Christ gave to us, as
to his spouse.

(b) Good works which are lively testimonies of faith.

#BCV:Revelation 19:10
<h3><verse=Revelation 19:10>Revelation 19:10</verse></h3>

(10) And he saith unto me, Write, Blessed [are] they which are called unto the marriage supper of
the Lamb. And he saith unto me, These are the true sayings of God.

(10) Namely the angel, as it appears by the next verse.

#BCV:Revelation 19:11
<h3><verse=Revelation 19:11>Revelation 19:11</verse></h3>

(11) And I fell at his feet to worship him. And he said unto me, See [thou do it] not: I am thy
fellowservant, and of thy brethren that have the (c)testimony of Jesus: worship God: for the
testimony of (d) Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

(11) The particular history of this verse is brought in by occasion, and as it were besides the purpose
that John might make a public example of his own infirmity and of the modest sanctimony of the
angel, who both renounced for himself the divine honours, and recalled all the servants of God, to
the worship of him alone: as also (<bcv=Rev 22:8>Rev 22:8</bcv>).

(c) Who are commanded to bear witness of Jesus.

(d) For Jesus is the mark that all the prophecies shoot at.

#BCV:Revelation 19:12-13
<h3><verse=Revelation 19:12>Revelation 19:12</verse></h3>

<page=3414>(12) And I saw (13) heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him [was] called
Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.

(12) The second part of this chapter (as I said in) See<bcv=Rev 19:1> Rev 19:1</bcv> is of the victory gained by Christ
against both the beasts: in which first Christ is described as one ready to fight, to the sixteenth verse
(<bcv=Rev 19:12-16>Rev 19:12-16</bcv>), then the battle is shown to begin, there to the eighteenth verse (<bcv=Rev 19:17-18>Rev 19:17-18</bcv>), lastly is
set forth the victory, to the end the chapter (<bcv=Rev 19:19-21>Rev 19:19-21</bcv>). In this place the most excellent properties
of Christ as our heavenly judge and avenger shine forth, according to his person, company, effects
and names.

(13) Properties belonging to his person, that he is heavenly, judge, faithful, true, just, in this verse,
knowing all things, ruling over all, to be known by no one, (<bcv=Rev 19:12>Rev 19:12</bcv>), the triumpher and in essence,
the Word of God, in (<bcv=Rev 19:13>Rev 19:13</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 19:14
<h3><verse=Revelation 19:14>Revelation 19:14</verse></h3>

(14) And the armies [which were] in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen,
white and clean.

(14) The company or retinue of Christ, holy, innumerable, heavenly, judicial, royal and pure.

#BCV:Revelation 19:15
<h3><verse=Revelation 19:15>Revelation 19:15</verse></h3>

(15) And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he
shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of
Almighty God.

(15) The effects of Christ prepared to fight, that with his mouth he strikes the Gentiles, rules and
destroys.

#BCV:Revelation 19:16
<h3><verse=Revelation 19:16>Revelation 19:16</verse></h3>

(16) And he hath on [his] vesture and on his thigh a name written, KING OF KINGS, AND
LORD OF LORDS.

(16) The name agreeing to Christ according to the former qualities, expressed after the manner of
the Hebrews.

#BCV:Revelation 19:17-19
<h3><verse=Revelation 19:17>Revelation 19:17</verse></h3>

<page=3415>(17) And I saw an angel standing in the (18) sun; and he cried with a loud voice, saying to all the
fowls that fly in the (19) midst of heaven, Come and gather yourselves together unto the supper of
the great God;

(17) The second part, as I said in See<bcv=Rev 19:11> Rev 19:11</bcv>. A reproachful calling forth of his enemies into battle:
in which not themselves (for why should they be called forth by the king of the world, or provoked
being his subjects? for that is not comely) but in their hearing, the birds of the air are called to eat
their carcasses.

(18) That is, openly, and in sight of all, as in (<bcv=Num 25:4>Num 25:4</bcv>; <bcv=2Sam 12:11>Sa2 12:11</bcv>).

(19) That is, through this inferior heaven, and which is nearer to us: a Hebrew phrase.

#BCV:Revelation 19:20
<h3><verse=Revelation 19:20>Revelation 19:20</verse></h3>

(20) And I saw the beast, and the kings of the earth, and their armies, gathered together to make war
against him that sat on the horse, and against his army.

(20) The third part (as was said in) (<bcv=Rev 19:11>Rev 19:11</bcv>) by the victory obtained by Christ. Two things pertain
to this: his fighting with the beast and his forces, in this verse: and the event most magnificent,
described after the manner of men, in the verses following. All these things are plain.

#BCV:Revelation 19:20-22
<h3><verse=Revelation 19:21>Revelation 19:21</verse></h3>

And the beast (21) was taken, and with him (22) the false prophet that wrought miracles before him,
with which he deceived them that had received the mark of the beast, and them that worshipped his
image. These both were cast alive into a lake of fire burning with brimstone.

(21) Namely, that beast with seven heads; (<bcv=Rev 13:1>Rev 13:1</bcv>;<bcv=Rev 17:3> Rev 17:3</bcv>).

(22) That is, that beast with two heads; (<bcv=Rev 13:11>Rev 13:11</bcv>;<bcv=Rev 16:14> Rev 16:14</bcv>).

<h2>Revelation 20</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 20:1-2
<h3><verse=Revelation 20:1>Revelation 20:1</verse></h3>

<page=3416>And (1) I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key (2) of the bottomless pit and a great
chain in his hand.

(1) Now follows the third part of the prophetic history, which is of the victory by which Christ
overcame the dragon, as I noted in (<bcv=Rev 7:1>Rev 7:1</bcv>). This part must necessarily be joined with the end of
the twelfth chapter and be applied to the correct understanding of it. This chapter has two parts,
one of the dragon overcome, to (<bcv=Rev 20:2-10>Rev 20:2-10</bcv>): the other of the resurrection and last judgment to
(<bcv=Rev 20:11-15>Rev 20:11-15</bcv>). The story of the dragon is twofold: First of the first victory, after which he was
bound by Christ, to the sixth verse (<bcv=Rev 20:1-6>Rev 20:1-6</bcv>). The second is of the last victory, by which he has
thrown down into everlasting punishment, there to the fifteenth verse (<bcv=Rev 20:7-15>Rev 20:7-15</bcv>). This first history
happened in the first time of the Christian Church, when the dragon thrown down from heaven by
Christ, went about to molest the new birth of the Church in the earth, (<bcv=Rev 12:17>Rev 12:17</bcv>,<bcv=Rev 18:1> Rev 18:1</bcv>). For
which cause I gave warning, that this story of the dragon must be joined to that passage. (2) That is,
of hell, where God threw the angels who had sinned, and bound them in chains of darkness to be
kept till damnation, (<bcv=2Pe 2:4>Pe2 2:4</bcv>)

#BCV:Revelation 20:2-3
<h3><verse=Revelation 20:3>Revelation 20:3</verse></h3>

And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him (3) a
thousand years,

(3) The first of which (continuing this history with the end of the second chapter) in the 36 years
from the passion of Christ, when the Church of the Jews being overthrown, Satan attempted to
invade the Christian church gathered from the Gentiles, and to destroy part of her seed, (<bcv=Rev 12:17>Rev 12:17</bcv>).
The thousandth year falls precisely on the times of that wicked Hildebrand, who was called Gregory
the seventh, a most damnable necromancer and sorcerer, whom Satan used as an instrument when
he was loosed out of bonds, from then on to annoy the saints of God with most cruel persecutions,
and the whole world with dissentions, and most bloody wars: as Benno the Cardinal reports at large.
This is the first victory gained over the dragon in the earth.

#BCV:Revelation 20:3-5
<h3><verse=Revelation 20:4>Revelation 20:4</verse></h3>

And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should
deceive the nations (4) no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be
loosed (5) a little season.

<page=3417>(4) Namely, with that public and violent deceit which he attempted before in chapter 12 and which
after a thousand years (alas for woe!) he most mightily achieved in the Christian world. (5) Which
being once expired, the second battle and victory shall be; (<bcv=Rev 20:7-8>Rev 20:7-8</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 20:6-8
<h3><verse=Revelation 20:6>Revelation 20:6</verse></h3>

(6) And I saw (a) thrones, and they sat upon them, and (7) judgment was given unto them: and [I
saw] the souls of them that were (8) beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God,
and which (9) had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received [his] mark upon
their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.

(6) A description of the common state of the Church of Christ in earth in that space of a thousand
years, during which the devil was in bonds; in which first the authority, life, and common honour of
the godly, is declared, (<bcv=Rev 20:4>Rev 20:4</bcv>). Secondly, newness of life is preached to others by the gospel after
that time; (<bcv=Rev 20:5>Rev 20:5</bcv>). Finally, he concludes with promises, (<bcv=Rev 20:6>Rev 20:6</bcv>).

(a) For judgment was committed to them, as to members joined to the head: not that Christ's office
was given over to them. (7) This was a type of the authority of the good and faithful servants of
God in the Church, taken from the manner of men. (8) Of the martyrs, who suffered in those first
times. (9) Of the martyrs who suffered after both the beasts were now risen up, chapter 15. For
there, these things are expounded.

#BCV:Revelation 20:10-11
<h3><verse=Revelation 20:10>Revelation 20:10</verse></h3>

(10) But the rest of the dead (11) lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This [is] the
first resurrection.

(10) Whoever shall lie dead in sin, and not know the truth of God.

(11) They shall not be renewed with newness of the life by the enlightening of the gospel of the
glory of Christ. For this is the first resurrection, by which souls of the dead do rise from their death.
In the second resurrection their bodies shall rise again.

#BCV:Revelation 20:11-13
<h3><verse=Revelation 20:12>Revelation 20:12</verse></h3>

Blessed and holy [is] he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the (12) second death hath
no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, (13) and shall reign with him a thousand
years.

(12) That by this both body and soul, that is, the whole man is condemned and delivered to eternal
death; (<bcv=Rev 2:11>Rev 2:11</bcv>).

(13) A return to the intended history, by resuming the words which are in the end of the fourth
verse (<bcv=Rev 20:4>Rev 20:4</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 20:14-15
<h3><verse=Revelation 20:14>Revelation 20:14</verse></h3>

<page=3418>(14) And when the (15) thousand years are expired, Satan shall be loosed out of his prison,

(14) The second history, of the latter victory of Christ, as was said in (<bcv=Rev 20:1>Rev 20:1</bcv>). In which are
summarily described the work, overthrow, and eternal punishment of Satan.

(15) Of which I spoke. See<bcv=Rev 20:2> Rev 20:2</bcv> Then there will be given to him liberty to rage against the
Church, and to molest the saints for the sins of men: to whom the faithful shall have associated
themselves more then was fitting, tasting with them of their impurity of doctrine and life.

#BCV:Revelation 20:16
<h3><verse=Revelation 20:16>Revelation 20:16</verse></h3>

(16) And shall go out to deceive the nations which are in the four quarters of the earth, Gog and
Magog, to gather them together to battle: the number of whom [is] as the sand of the sea.

(16) The work or act of Satan (which is the first part, as I distinguished in the verse before) to
deceive the whole world, even to the uttermost nations of it: to arm them against the people of
God, in this verse and to besiege and oppress the Church, with his whole strength, in the verse
following.

#BCV:Revelation 20:16-17
<h3><verse=Revelation 20:17>Revelation 20:17</verse></h3>

And they went up on the (b) breadth of the earth, and compassed the camp of the saints about, and
the beloved city: and (17) fire came down from God out of heaven, and devoured them.

(b) As if he said, in so much that the whole face of the earth, however great it is, was filled.

(17) The wrath of God, consuming the adversaries, and overthrowing all their enterprises; (Heb
10:27). This is the second part mentioned See<bcv=Rev 20:7> Rev 20:7</bcv>, in the overthrow of Satan.

#BCV:Revelation 20:18
<h3><verse=Revelation 20:18>Revelation 20:18</verse></h3>

(18) And the devil that deceived them was cast into the lake of fire and brimstone, where the beast
and the false prophet [are], and shall be tormented day and night for ever and ever.

(18) The third part, eternal destruction against those that are overcome: as I noted in the same place.

#BCV:Revelation 20:19-21
<h3><verse=Revelation 20:19>Revelation 20:19</verse></h3>

(19) And I saw a great (20) white throne, and him that sat on it, (21) from whose face the earth and
the heaven fled away; and there was found no place for them.

<page=3419>(19) The second part of this chapter, in which the judge is described in this verse, and the last
judgment in the verse following.

(20) That is, a tribunal seat most princelike and glorious: for so does the Greek word signify.

(21) That is, Christ, before whom when he comes to judgment, heaven and earth shall perish for the
greatness of his majesty; (<bcv=2Pe 3:7>Pe2 3:7</bcv>, <bcv=2Pe 3:10>Pe2 3:10</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 20:12
<h3><verse=Revelation 20:12>Revelation 20:12</verse></h3>

And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before (22) God; and the (23) books were opened: and
another book was opened, which is [the book] (24) of life: and the dead were judged out of those
things which were written in the books, according to their works.

(22) That is, Christ the judge; (<bcv=2Co 5:10>Co2 5:10</bcv>).

(23) As it were, his books of reckoning or accounts, that is, the testimony of our conscience, and of
our works, which by no means can be avoided.

(24) The book of the eternal decree of God, in which God the Father has elected in Christ
according to the good pleasure of his will, those that shall be heirs of life. This also is spoken
according to the manner of men.

#BCV:Revelation 20:13
<h3><verse=Revelation 20:13>Revelation 20:13</verse></h3>

(25) And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which
were in them: and they were judged every man according to their works.

(25) This is a reply or an answer to an objection: for some man will say, "But they are dead, whom
the sea, death and the grave has consumed, how shall they appear before the judge?" John answers,
by resurrection from death, where all things (however repugnant) shall minister and serve at the
commandment of God, as in (<bcv=Dan 12:1-2>Dan 12:1-2</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 20:14
<h3><verse=Revelation 20:26>Revelation 20:14</verse></h3>

(26) And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death.

(26) The last enemy which is death shall be abolished by Christ (that he may no more make any
attempt against us) (<bcv=1Co 15:16>Co1 15:16</bcv>) and death shall feed on the reprobate in hell for evermore, according
to the righteous judgment of God, in the next verse (<bcv=Rev 20:15>Rev 20:15</bcv>).

<h2>Revelation 21</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 21:1
<h3><verse=Revelation 21:1>Revelation 21:1</verse></h3>

<page=3420>And (1) I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed
away; and there was no more sea.

(1) Now follows the second part of the history prophetic of the future estate of the Church in
heaven after the last judgment, to (<bcv=Rev 21:2>Rev 21:2</bcv>;<bcv=Rev 22:5> Rev 22:5</bcv>). In this are two things briefly declared. The
station, seat, or place of it, (<bcv=Rev 21:1>Rev 21:1</bcv>). Then her state and condition, in the verses following. Before
the state of the Church described, is set down the state of the whole world, that there shall be a new
heaven, and a new earth; (<bcv=Isa 65:17>Isa 65:17</bcv>;<bcv=Isa 66:22> Isa 66:22</bcv>; <bcv=2Pe 3:13>Pe2 3:13</bcv>) and this is the seat or place of the Church, in which righteousness shall dwell.

#BCV:Revelation 21:2
<h3><verse=Revelation 21:2>Revelation 21:2</verse></h3>

(2) And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as
a bride adorned for her husband.

(2) The state of this glorious Church is first described generally to (<bcv=Rev 21:3-8>Rev 21:3-8</bcv>), and then specially
and by parts, in the verses following. The general description consists in a vision shown afar off, (Rev
21:2) and in speech spoken from heaven. In the general these things are common, that the Church is
holy, new, the workmanship of God, heavenly, most glorious, the spouse of Christ, and partaker of
his glory in this verse.

#BCV:Revelation 21:3
<h3><verse=Revelation 21:3>Revelation 21:3</verse></h3>

(3) And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God [is] with men, and
he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, [and be]
their God.

(3) The Church is described by the speech, first of an angel, in two verses, then by God himself, in
four verses. The angel's speech describes the glory of the Church, by the most intimate communion
with God, by giving of all manner of good things according to the covenant, in this verse: and by
removing or putting away of all evil things, in the verse following (<bcv=Rev 21:4>Rev 21:4</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 21:4
<h3><verse=Revelation 21:4>Revelation 21:4</verse></h3>

(4) And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write:
for these words are true and faithful.

(4) In the speech of God himself describing the Church, is first an introduction, or entrance. Then
follows a magnificent description of the Church, by the present and future good things of the same,
<page=3421>in three verses following (Rev 21:6-8). In the introduction God challenges to himself the restoring of
all the creatures, (<bcv=Rev 21:1>Rev 21:1</bcv>) and witnesses the calling of John to the writing of these things, in this
verse.

#BCV:Revelation 21:4-5
<h3><verse=Revelation 21:5>Revelation 21:5</verse></h3>

And he said unto me, (5) It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give
unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.

(5) The description of the Church is in three parts, by the abolishing of old things, by the being of
present things in God, that is, of things eternal: and by the giving of all good things with the godly.
If so be they shall contend manfully; (<bcv=Rev 21:7>Rev 21:7</bcv>). But the reprobate are excluded from there; (Rev 21:8).

But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and
sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their (a) part in the lake which burneth with fire and

(a) Their lot, and inheritance as it were.

#BCV:Revelation 21:6
<h3><verse=Revelation 21:6>Revelation 21:6</verse></h3>

(6) And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last
plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife.

(6) A transition to the describing of the heavenly Church, by the express calling of John in this verse,
and his enrapturing by the Spirit, in confirmation of the truth of God in the verse following.

#BCV:Revelation 21:6-8
<h3><verse=Revelation 21:7>Revelation 21:7</verse></h3>

And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and (7) high mountain, and shewed me (8) that great
city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God,

(7) He means the place and stately seat of the Church, foreshadowed in a mountain. (8) A type of
that Church which is one, ample, or catholic, holy celestial, built by God, in this verse: and glorious
in the verse following (<bcv=Rev 21:11>Rev 21:11</bcv>). This type propounded generally, is particularly declared; (Rev 21:12).

#BCV:Revelation 21:9-11
<h3><verse=Revelation 21:9>Revelation 21:9</verse></h3>

(9) And had a wall great and high, [and] had (10) twelve gates, and at the gates (11) twelve angels,
and names written thereon, which are [the names] of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel:

<page=3422>(9) A particular description of the celestial Church, first, by its essential parts, compared to a city
down to verse 22, (<bcv=Rev 21:12-22>Rev 21:12-22</bcv>). Secondly, from the outside, to the end of the chapter (<bcv=Rev 21:23-27>Rev 21:23-27</bcv>).
Thirdly, by the effects, in the beginning of the next chapter, the essential parts are noted the matter
and the form in the whole work: of these the superstructure and foundation of the wall are entire
parts (as they use to be called) which parts are first described in figure, to the 14th verse afterwards
more exactly.

(10) According to the number of the tribes. For here the outward part is attributed to the Old
Testament, and the foundation of the New Testament.

(11) He means the prophets, who are the messengers of God, and watchmen of the Church.

#BCV:Revelation 21:11-12
<h3><verse=Revelation 21:12>Revelation 21:12</verse></h3>

And the wall of the city had (12) twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles
of the Lamb.

(12) That is, foundation stones, according to the number of the gates, as is shown in (<bcv=Rev 21:19>Rev 21:19</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 21:13
<h3><verse=Revelation 21:13>Revelation 21:13</verse></h3>

(13) And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the
wall thereof.

(13) A transition to a more exquisite description of the parts of the Church, by finding out its size,
by the angel that measured them.

#BCV:Revelation 21:14
<h3><verse=Revelation 21:14>Revelation 21:14</verse></h3>

(14) And the city lieth (b) foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the
city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are
equal.

(14) The measure and form most equal, in two verses.

(b) A foursquare figure has equal sides, and outright corners, and therefore the Greeks call by this
name those things that are steady, and of continuance and perfect.

And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred [and] forty [and] four cubits, [according to] the
measure of a man, that is, of the (c) angel.

(c) He adds this, because the angel had the shape of a man.

#BCV:Revelation 21:15
<h3><verse=Revelation 21:15>Revelation 21:15</verse></h3>

<page=3423>(15) And the building of the wall of it was [of] jasper: and the city [was] pure gold, like unto clear
glass.

(15) The matter most precious and glittering, which the presence of God makes most glorious.

And the twelve gates [were] twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the (d) street of
the city [was] pure gold, as it were transparent glass.

(d) By street, he means the broadest place of the city.

#BCV:Revelation 21:16
<h3><verse=Revelation 21:16>Revelation 21:16</verse></h3>

(16) And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God
did lighten it, and the Lamb [is] the light thereof.

(16) The second form of particular description (as I said) See<bcv=Rev 21:12> Rev 21:12</bcv> from exterior and outward
actions which are these, light from God himself, to this verse glory from men, (<bcv=Rev 21:24>Rev 21:24</bcv>). Finally
such truth and incorruption of glory (<bcv=Rev 21:26>Rev 21:26</bcv>) as can bear and abide with it, nothing that is
inglorious, (<bcv=Rev 21:27>Rev 21:27</bcv>).

<h2>Revelation 22</h2>

#BCV:Revelation 22:1
<h3><verse=Revelation 22:1>Revelation 22:1</verse></h3>

<page=3424>And (1) he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of
God and of the Lamb.

(1) Here is absolved and finished the description of the celestial Church (as I showed before)
See<bcv=Rev 21:12> Rev 21:12</bcv> by the effects in (<bcv=Rev 22:5>Rev 22:5</bcv>), and then this book is concluded in the rest of the chapter.
The effects proceeding from God, who dwells in the Church, are these: the everlasting grace of God,
in this verse, the eternal life of the godly, as in (<bcv=Rev 2:7>Rev 2:7</bcv>) the eternal fruits which the godly bring forth
to God, themselves and others, (<bcv=Rev 22:2>Rev 22:2</bcv>), freedom and immunity from all evil, God himself taking
pleasure in his servants, and they likewise in their God, (<bcv=Rev 22:3>Rev 22:3</bcv>). The beholding and sight of God,
and sealing of the faithful from all eternity, (<bcv=Rev 22:4>Rev 22:4</bcv>) the light of God and an everlasting kingdom and glory, (<bcv=Rev 22:5>Rev 22:5</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 22:2
<h3><verse=Revelation 22:2>Revelation 22:2</verse></h3>

(2) And he said unto me, These sayings [are] faithful and true: and the Lord God of the holy
prophets sent his angel to shew unto his servants the things which must shortly be done.

(2) This whole book is concluded and made up by a confirmation, and a salutation. The
confirmation has three parts: the words of the angel (<bcv=Rev 22:15>Rev 22:15</bcv>), the words of Christ, (<bcv=Rev 22:16-17>Rev 22:16-17</bcv>)
and the supplication made by John from divine authority, (<bcv=Rev 22:18-20>Rev 22:18-20</bcv>). By the speech of the angel
this prophecy is confirmed to (<bcv=Rev 22:7-8>Rev 22:7-8</bcv>), and then he speaks of the use of this book in the verses
following. The prophecy is first confirmed by the angel from the nature of it, that it is faithful and
true: Secondly, from the nature of the efficient cause, both principal, which is God, and
instrumental, which is the angel in this verse. Thirdly, from the promises of God concerning his
coming to effect all these things, and concerning our salvation; (<bcv=Rev 22:7>Rev 22:7</bcv>). Fourthly, from the
testification of John himself; (<bcv=Rev 22:8>Rev 22:8</bcv>). The rest of the speech of the angel rending to the same end,
John interrupted or broke off by his unadvised act of worshipping him, in the same verse, which the
angel forbidding, teaches him that adoration must be given not to him, but only to God, as for
himself, that he is of such nature and office, as he may not be adored: which thing also was in like
manner done; (<bcv=Rev 19:10>Rev 19:10</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 22:3
<h3><verse=Revelation 22:3>Revelation 22:3</verse></h3>

(3) And he saith unto me, (4) Seal not the sayings of the prophecy of this book: for the time is at
hand.

(3) The angel returns to his former speech: in which he teaches to use of this book both towards
ourselves, in this and the next verse: and in respect of God for declaration of his truth, there to the
<page=3425>fifteenth verse (Rev 22:11-15). (4) That is, propound this prophecy openly to all and conceal no part
of it. The contrary to that which is commanded in (<bcv=Isa 8:16>Isa 8:16</bcv>;<bcv=Dan 8:26> Dan 8:26</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 22:5
<h3><verse=Revelation 22:5>Revelation 22:5</verse></h3>

(5) He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is
righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.

(5) An objection anticipated, but there will be some that will use this occasion for evil, and will wrest
this scripture to their own destruction, as Peter says. What then? says the angel, the mysteries of
God must not be concealed, which it has pleased him to communicate to us. Let them be harmful to
others, let such be more and more vile in themselves, whom this scripture does not please: yet others
will be further conformed to righteousness by this, and true holiness. The care and reformation of
these may not be neglected, because of the voluntary and malicious offence of others.

#BCV:Revelation 22:6
<h3><verse=Revelation 22:6>Revelation 22:6</verse></h3>

(6) And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward [is] with me, to give every man according as his
work shall be.

(6) The second part belonging to the use of this book, as I said See<bcv=Rev 22:10> Rev 22:10</bcv>. Also (says God by the
angel) though there should be no use of this book to men: yet it shall be of this use to me, that it is
a witness of my truth to my glory, who will come shortly, to give and execute just judgment, in this
verse; who have taught that all these things have their being in me, (<bcv=Rev 22:13>Rev 22:13</bcv>), and have pronounced
blessedness to my servants in the Church, (<bcv=Rev 22:14>Rev 22:14</bcv>) and reprobation to the ungodly (<bcv=Rev 22:15>Rev 22:15</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 22:6-7
<h3><verse=Revelation 22:7>Revelation 22:7</verse></h3>

Blessed [are] they that do his commandments, (7) that they may have right to the tree of life, and
may enter in through the gates into the city.

(7) The blessedness of the godly set down by their title and interest there: and their fruit in the same.

#BCV:Revelation 22:8
<h3><verse=Revelation 22:8>Revelation 22:8</verse></h3>

(8) I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and
the offspring of David, [and] the bright and morning star.

(8) The second passage of confirmation (as I said) is the speech of Christ ratifying the vocation of
John, and the authority of his calling and testimony, both from the condition of his own person
being God and man, in whom all the promises of God are Yea and Amen; (<bcv=2Co 1:20>Co2 1:20</bcv>) and also from
the testimony of other people, by the acclamation of the Holy Spirit, who here is an honourable
assistant of the marriage of the Church as the spouse: and of each of the godly as members; and
<page=3426>finally from the thing present, that of their own knowledge and accord, they are called forth to the
participation of the good things of God; (<bcv=Gen 22:17>Gen 22:17</bcv>).

#BCV:Revelation 22:9
<h3><verse=Revelation 22:9>Revelation 22:9</verse></h3>

(9) For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man
shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:

(9) The supplication of John (which is the third part of the confirmation) joined with a curse of
abhorrence, to preserve the truth of this book entire and uncorrupted in two verses.

#BCV:Revelation 22:10
<h3><verse=Revelation 22:10>Revelation 22:10</verse></h3>

(10) He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.

(10) A divine confirmation or sealing of the supplication first from Christ affirming the same and
denouncing his coming against all those that will put their sacrilegious hands here: then from John
himself, who by a most holy prayer calls Christ to take vengeance on them.

#BCV:Revelation 22:11
<h3><verse=Revelation 22:11>Revelation 22:11</verse></h3>

(11) The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ [be] with you all. Amen.

(11) The apostolic salutation, which is the other part of the conclusion, as I said See<bcv=Rev 22:6> Rev 22:6</bcv> and is
the end of almost every epistle; which we wish to the Church, and to all the holy and elect members
of it, in Christ Jesus our Lord, until his coming to judgment "Come Lord Jesus" and do it. Amen,
again Amen.
