The Holy Bible

Part 68 out of 74



10:17. But he that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord.

10:18. For not he who commendeth himself is approved: but he, whom God
commendeth.



2 Corinthians Chapter 11


He is forced to commend himself and his labours, lest the Corinthians
should be imposed upon by the false apostles.

11:1. Would to God you could bear with some little of my folly! But do
bear with me.

My folly. . .So he calls his reciting his own praises, which, commonly
speaking is looked upon as a piece of folly and vanity; though the
apostle was constrained to do it, for the good of the souls committed
to his charge.

11:2. For I am jealous of you with the jealousy of God. For I have
espoused you to one husband, that I may present you as a chaste virgin
to Christ.

11:3. But I fear lest, as the serpent seduced Eve by his subtilty, so
your minds should be corrupted and fall from the simplicity that is in
Christ.

11:4. For if he that cometh preacheth another Christ, whom we have not
preached; or if you receive another Spirit, whom you have not received;
or another gospel, which you have not received: you might well bear
with him.

11:5. For I suppose that I have done nothing less than the great
apostles.

11:6. For although I be rude in speech, yet not in knowledge: but in
all things we have been made manifest to you.

11:7. Or did I commit a fault, humbling myself that you might be
exalted, because I preached unto you the Gospel of God freely?

11:8. I have taken from other churches, receiving wages of them for
your ministry.

11:9. And, when I was present with you and wanted, I was chargeable to
no man: for that which was wanting to me, the brethren supplied who
came from Macedonia. And in all things I have kept myself from being
burthensome to you: and so I will keep myself.

11:10. The truth of Christ is in me, that this glorying shall not be
broken off in me in the regions of Achaia.

11:11. Wherefore? Because I love you not? God knoweth it.

11:12. But what I do, that I will do: that I may cut off the occasion
from them that desire occasion: that wherein they glory, they may be
found even as we.

11:13. For such false apostles are deceitful workmen, transforming
themselves into the apostles of Christ.

11:14. And no wonder: for Satan himself transformeth himself into an
angel of light.

11:15. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers be transformed
as the ministers of justice, whose end shall be according to their
works.

11:16. I say again (Let no man think me to be foolish: otherwise take
me as one foolish, that I also may glory a little):

11:17. That which I speak, I speak not according to God: but as it were
in foolishness, in this matter of glorying.

11:18. Seeing that many glory according to the flesh, I will glory
also.

11:19. For you gladly suffer the foolish: whereas yourselves are wise.

11:20. For you suffer if a man bring you into bondage, if a man devour
you, if a man take from you, if a man be lifted up, if a man strike you
on the face.

11:21. I seek according to dishonour, as if we had been weak in this
part. Wherein if any man dare (I speak foolishly), I dare also.

11:22. They are Hebrews: so am I. They are Israelites: so am I. They
are the seed of Abraham: so am I.

11:23. They are the ministers of Christ (I speak as one less wise): I
am more; in many more labours, in prisons more frequently, in stripes
above measure, in deaths often.

11:24. Of the Jews five times did I receive forty stripes save one.

11:25. Thrice was I beaten with rods: once I was stoned: thrice I
suffered shipwreck: a night and a day I was in the depth of the sea.

11:26. In journeying often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers,
in perils from my own nation, in perils from the Gentiles, in perils in
the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils
from false brethren:

11:27. In labour and painfulness, in much watchings, in hunger and
thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness:

11:28. Besides those things which are without: my daily instance, the
solicitude for all the churches.

My daily instance. . .The labours that come in, and press upon me every
day.

11:29. Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is scandalized, and I am not
on fire?

11:30. If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things that concern
my infirmity.

11:31. The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who is blessed for
ever, knoweth that I lie not.

11:32. At Damascus, the governor of the nation under Aretas the king,
guarded the city of the Damascenes, to apprehend me.

11:33. And through a window in a basket was I let down by the wall: and
so escaped his hands.



2 Corinthians Chapter 12


His raptures and revelations, His being buffeted by Satan. His fear for
the Corinthians.

12:1. If I must glory (it is not expedient indeed) but I will come to
visions and revelations of the Lord.

12:2. I know a man in Christ: above fourteen years ago (whether in the
body, I know not, or out of the body, I know not: God knoweth), such a
one caught up to the third heaven.

12:3. And I know such a man (whether in the body, or out of the body, I
know not: God knoweth):

12:4. That he was caught up into paradise and heard secret words which
it is not granted to man to utter.

12:5. For such an one I will glory: but for myself I will glory nothing
but in my infirmities.

12:6. For though I should have a mind to glory, I shall not be foolish:
for I will say the truth. But I forbear, lest any man should think of
me above that which he seeth in me, or any thing he heareth from me.

12:7. And lest the greatness of the revelations should exalt me, there
was given me a sting of my flesh, an angel of Satan, to buffet me.

12:8. For which thing, thrice I besought the Lord that it might depart
from me.

12:9. And he said to me: My grace is sufficient for thee: for power is
made perfect in infirmity. Gladly therefore will I glory in my
infirmities, that the power of Christ may dwell in me.

Power is made perfect. . .The strength and power of God more perfectly
shines forth in our weakness and infirmity; as the more weak we are of
ourselves, the more illustrious is his grace in supporting us, and
giving us the victory under all trials and conflicts.

12:10. For which cause I please myself in my infirmities, in
reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses, for Christ.
For when I am weak, then am I powerful.

12:11. I am become foolish. You have compelled me: for I ought to have
been commended by you. For I have no way come short of them that are
above measure apostles, although I be nothing.

12:12. Yet the signs of my apostleship have been wrought on you, in all
patience, in signs and wonders and mighty deeds.

12:13. For what is there that you have had less than the other churches
but that I myself was not burthensome to you? Pardon me this injury.

12:14. Behold now the third time I am ready to come to you and I will
not be burthensome unto you. For I seek not the things that are yours,
but you. For neither ought the children to lay up for the parents, but
the parents for the children.

12:15. But I most gladly will spend and be spent myself for your souls:
although loving you more, I be loved less.

12:16. But be it so: I did not burthen you: but being crafty, I caught
you by guile.

12:17. Did I overreach you by any of them whom I sent to you?

12:18. I desired Titus: and I sent with him a brother. Did Titus
overreach you? Did we not walk with the same spirit? Did we not in the
same steps?

12:19. Of old, think you that we excuse ourselves to you? We speak
before God in Christ: but all things, my dearly beloved, for your
edification.

12:20. For I fear lest perhaps, when I come, I shall not find you such
as I would, and that I shall be found by you such as you would not.
Lest perhaps contentions, envyings, animosities, dissensions,
detractions, whisperings, swellings, seditions, be among you.

12:21. Lest again, when I come, God humble me among you: and I mourn
many of them that sinned before and have not done penance for the
uncleanness and fornication and lasciviousness that they have
committed.



2 Corinthians Chapter 13


He threatens the impenitent, to provoke them to penance.

13:1. Behold, this is the third time I am coming to you: In the mouth
of two or three witnesses shall every word stand.

13:2. I have told before and foretell, as present and now absent, to
them that sinned before and to all the rest, that if I come again, I
will not spare.

13:3. Do you seek a proof of Christ that speaketh in me, who towards
you is not weak, but is mighty in you?

13:4. For although he was crucified through 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 towards you.

13:5. Try your own selves if you be in the faith: prove ye yourselves.
Know you not your own selves, that Christ Jesus is in you, unless
perhaps you be reprobates?

13:6. But I trust that you shall know that we are not reprobates.

13:7. Now we pray God that you may do no evil, not that we may appear
approved, but that you may do that which is good and that we may be as
reprobates.

Reprobates. . .that is, without proof, by having no occasion of shewing
our power in punishing you.

13:8. For we can do nothing against the truth: but for the truth.

13:9. For we rejoice that we are weak and you are strong. This also we
pray for, your perfection.

13:10. Therefore I write these things, being absent, that, being
present, I may not deal more severely, according to the power which the
Lord hath given me unto edification and not unto destruction.

13:11. For the rest, brethren, rejoice, be perfect, take exhortation,
be of one mind, have peace. And the God of grace and of love shall be
with you.

13:12. Salute one another with a holy kiss. All the saints salute you.

13:13. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the charity of God and
the communication of the Holy Ghost be with you all. Amen.




THE EPISTLE OF ST. PAUL TO THE GALATIANS



The Galatians, soon after St. Paul had preached the Gospel to them,
were seduced by some false teachers, who had been Jews and who were for
obliging all Christians, even those who had been Gentiles, to observe
circumcision and the other ceremonies of the Mosaical law. In this
Epistle, he refutes the pernicious doctrine of those teachers and also
their calumny against his mission and apostleship. The subject matter
of this Epistle is much the same as that to the Romans. It was written
at Ephesus, about twenty-three years after our Lord's Ascension.



Galatians Chapter 1


He blames the Galatians for suffering themselves to be imposed upon by
new teachers. The apostle's calling.

1:1. Paul, an apostle, not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ
and God the Father, who raised him from the dead:

1:2. And all the brethren who are with me: to the churches of Galatia.

1:3. Grace be to you, and peace from God the Father and from our Lord
Jesus Christ,

1:4. Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this
present wicked world, according to the will of God and our Father:

1:5. To whom is glory for ever and ever. Amen.

1:6. I wonder that you are so soon removed from him that called you
into the grace of Christ, unto another gospel.

1:7. Which is not another: only there are some that trouble you and
would pervert the gospel of Christ.

1:8. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach a gospel to you
besides that which we have preached to you, let him be anathema.

1:9. As we said before, so now I say again: If any one preach to you a
gospel, besides that which you have received, let him be anathema.

1:10. For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? If
I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.

1:11. For I give you to understand, brethren, that the gospel which was
preached by me is not according to man.

1:12. For neither did I receive it of man: nor did I learn it but by
the revelation of Jesus Christ.

1:13. For you 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.

1:14. And I made progress in the Jew's religion above many of my equals
in my own nation, being more abundantly zealous for the traditions of
my fathers.

1:15. But when it pleased him who separated me from my mother's womb
and called me by his grace,

1:16. To reveal his Son in me, that I might preach him among the
Gentiles: immediately I condescended not to flesh and blood.

1:17. Neither went I to Jerusalem, to the apostles who were before me:
but I went into Arabia, and again I returned to Damascus.

1:18. Then, after three years, I went to Jerusalem to see Peter: and I
tarried with him fifteen days.

1:19. But other of the apostles I saw none, saving James the brother of
the Lord.

1:20. Now the things which I write to you, behold, before God, I lie
not.

1:21. Afterwards, I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia.

1:22. And I was unknown by face to the churches of Judea, which were in
Christ:

1:23. But they had heard only: He, who persecuted us in times past doth
now preach the faith which once he impugned.

1:24. And they glorified God in me.



Galatians Chapter 2


The apostle's preaching was approved of by the other apostles. The
Gentiles were not to be constrained to the observance of the law.

2:1. Then, after fourteen years, I went up again to Jerusalem with
Barnabas, taking Titus also with me.

2:2. And I went up according to revelation and communicated to them the
gospel which I preach among the Gentiles: but apart to them who seemed
to be some thing: lest perhaps I should run or had run in vain.

2:3. But neither Titus, who was with me, being a Gentile, was compelled
to be circumcised.

2:4. But because of false brethren unawares brought in, who came in
privately to spy our liberty which we have in Christ Jesus, that they
might bring us into servitude.

2:5. To whom we yielded not by subjection: no, not for an hour: that
the truth of the gospel might continue with you.

2:6. But of them who seemed to be some thing, (what they were some time
it is nothing to me, God accepteth not the person of man): for to me
they that seemed to be some thing added nothing.

2:7. But contrariwise, when they had seen that to me was committed the
gospel of the uncircumcision, as to Peter was that of the circumcision.

The gospel of the uncircumcision. . .The preaching of the gospel to the
uncircumcised, that is, to the Gentiles. St. Paul was called in an
extraordinary manner to be the apostle of the Gentiles; St. Peter,
besides his general commission over the whole flock, (John 21. 15,
etc.,) had a peculiar charge of the people of the circumcision, that
is, of the Jews.

2:8. (For he who wrought in Peter to the apostleship of the
circumcision wrought in me also among the Gentiles.)

2:9. And when they had known the grace that was given to me, James and
Cephas and John, who seemed to be pillars, gave to me and Barnabas the
right hands of fellowship: that we should go unto the Gentiles, and
they unto the circumcision:

2:10. Only that we should be mindful of the poor: which same thing also
I was careful to do.

2:11. But when Cephas was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face,
because he was to be blamed.

I withstood, etc. . .The fault that is here noted in the conduct of St.
Peter, was only a certain imprudence, in withdrawing himself from the
table of the Gentiles, for fear of giving offence to the Jewish
converts; but this, in such circumstances, when his so doing might be
of ill consequence to the Gentiles, who might be induced thereby to
think themselves obliged to conform to the Jewish way of living, to the
prejudice of their Christian liberty. Neither was St. Paul's
reprehending him any argument against his supremacy; for in such cases
an inferior may, and sometimes ought, with respect, to admonish his
superior.

2:12. For before that some came from James, he did eat with the
Gentiles: but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself,
fearing them who were of the circumcision.

2:13. And to his dissimulation the rest of the Jews consented: so that
Barnabas also was led by them into that dissimulation.

2:14. But when I saw that they walked not uprightly unto the truth of
the gospel, I said to Cephas before them all: If thou, being a Jew,
livest after the manner of the Gentiles and not as the Jews do, how
dost thou compel the Gentiles to live as do the Jews?

2:15. We by nature are Jews: and not of the Gentiles, sinners.

2:16. But knowing that man is not justified by the works of the law,
but by the faith of Jesus Christ, we also believe in Christ Jesus, that
we may be justified by the faith of Christ and not by the works of the
law: because by the works of the law no flesh shall be justified.

2:17. But if, while we seek to be justified in Christ, we ourselves
also are found sinners, is Christ then the minister of sin? God forbid!

2:18. For if I build up again the things which I have destroyed, I make
myself a prevaricator.

2:19. For I, through the law, am dead to the law, that I may live to
God; with Christ I am nailed to the cross.

2:20. And I live, now not I: but Christ liveth in me. And that I live
now in the flesh: I live in the faith of the Son of God, who loved me
and delivered himself for me.

2:21. I cast not away the grace of God. For if justice be by the law,
then Christ died in vain.



Galatians Chapter 3


The Spirit, and the blessing promised to Abraham cometh not by the law,
but by faith.

3:1. O senseless Galatians, who hath bewitched you that you should not
obey the truth: before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been set forth,
crucified among you?

3:2. This only would I learn of you: Did you receive the Spirit by the
works of the law or by the hearing of faith?

3:3. Are you so foolish that, whereas you began in the Spirit, you
would now be made perfect by the flesh?

3:4. Have you suffered so great things in vain? If it be yet in vain.

3:5. He therefore who giveth to you the Spirit and worketh miracles
among you: doth he do it by the works of the law or by the hearing of
the faith?

3:6. As it is written: Abraham believed God: and it was reputed to him
unto justice.

3:7. Know ye, therefore, that they who are of faith, the same are the
children of Abraham.

3:8. And the scripture, foreseeing that God justifieth the Gentiles by
faith, told unto Abraham before: In thee shall all nations be blessed.

3:9. Therefore, they that are of faith shall be blessed with faithful
Abraham.

3:10. For as many as are of the works of the law are under a curse. For
it is written: Cursed is every one that abideth, not in all things
which are written in the book of the law to do them.

3:11. But that in the law no man is justified with God, it is manifest:
because the just man liveth by faith.

3:12. But the law is not of faith: but he that doth those things shall
live in them.

3:13. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a
curse for us (for it is written: Cursed is every one that hangeth on a
tree).

3:14. That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through
Christ Jesus: that we may receive the promise of the Spirit by faith.

3:15. Brethren (I speak after the manner of man), yet a man's
testament, if it be confirmed, no man despiseth nor addeth to it.

3:16. To Abraham were the promises made and to his seed. He saith not:
And to his seeds as of many. But as of one: And to thy seed, which is
Christ.

3:17. Now this I say: that the testament which was confirmed by God,
the law which was made after four hundred and thirty years doth not
disannul, to make the promise of no effect.

3:18. For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise.
But God gave it to Abraham by promise.

3:19. Why then was the law? It was set because of transgressions, until
the seed should come to whom he made the promise, being ordained by
angels in the hand of a mediator.

Because of transgressions. . .To restrain them from sin, by fear and
threats. Ordained by angels. . .The law was delivered by angels,
speaking in the name and person of God to Moses, who was the mediator,
on this occasion, between God and the people.

3:20. Now a mediator is not of one: but God is one.

3:21. Was the law then against the promises of God: God forbid! For if
there had been a law given which could give life, verily justice should
have been by the law.

3:22. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise,
by the faith of Jesus Christ, might be given to them that believe.

Hath concluded all under sin. . .that is, hath declared all to be under
sin, from which they could not be delivered but by faith in Jesus
Christ, the promised seed.

3:23. But before the faith came, we were kept under the law shut up,
unto that faith which was to be revealed.

3:24. Wherefore the law was our pedagogue in Christ: that we might be
justified by faith.

Pedagogue. . .That is, schoolmaster, conductor, or instructor.

3:25. But after the faith is come, we are no longer under a pedagogue.

3:26. For you are all the children of God, by faith in Christ Jesus.

3:27. For as many of you as have been baptized in Christ have put on
Christ.

3:28. There is neither Jew nor Greek: there is neither bond nor free:
there is neither male nor female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Neither Jew, etc. . .That is, no distinction of Jew, etc.

3:29. And if you be Christ's, then are you the seed of Abraham, heirs
according to the promise.



Galatians Chapter 4


Christ has freed us from the servitude of the law. We are the freeborn
sons of Abraham.

4:1. As long as the heir is a child, he differeth nothing from a
servant, though he be lord of all,

4:2. But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed by the
father.

4:3. So we also, when we were children, were serving under the elements
of the world.

Under the elements, etc. . .That is, under the first rudiments of
religion, in which the carnal Jews were trained up; or under those
corporeal creatures, used in their manifold rites, sacrifices, and
sacraments.

4:4. But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent his Son, made
of a woman, made under the law:

4:5. That he might redeem them who were under the law: that we might
receive the adoption of sons.

4:6. And because you are sons, God hath sent the Spirit of his Son into
your hearts, crying: Abba, Father.

4:7. Therefore, now he is not a servant, but a son. And if a son, an
heir also through God.

4:8. But then indeed, not knowing God, you served them who, by nature,
are not gods.

4:9. But now, after that you have known God, or rather are known by
God: how turn you again to the weak and needy elements which you desire
to serve again?

4:10. You observe days and months and times, and years.

You observe days, etc. . .He speaks not of the observation of the Lord's
day, or other Christian festivals; but either of the superstitious
observation of days lucky and unlucky; or else of the Jewish festivals,
to the observance of which, certain Jewish teachers sought to induce
the Galatians.

4:11. I am afraid of you, lest perhaps I have laboured in vain among
you.

4:12. Be ye as I, because I also am as you brethren, I beseech you. You
have not injured me at all.

4:13. And you know how, through infirmity of the flesh, I preached the
gospel to you heretofore: and your temptation in my flesh

4:14. You despised not, nor rejected: but received me as an angel of
God, even as Christ Jesus.

4:15. Where is then your blessedness? For I bear you witness that, if
it could be done, you would have plucked out your own eyes and would
have given them to me.

4:16. Am I then become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?

4:17. They are zealous in your regard not well: but they would exclude
you, that you might be zealous for them.

4:18. But be zealous for that which is good in a good thing always: and
not only when I am present with you.

4:19. My little children, of whom I am in labour again, until Christ be
formed in you.

4:20. And I would willingly be present with you now and change my
voice: because I am ashamed for you.

4:21. Tell me, you that desire to be under the law, have you not read
the law?

4:22. For it is written that Abraham had two sons: the one by a
bondwoman and the other by a free woman.

4:23. But he who was of the bondwoman was born according to the flesh:
but he of the free woman was by promise.

4:24. Which things are said by an allegory. For these are the two
testaments. The one from Mount Sina, engendering unto bondage, which is
Agar.

4:25. For Sina is a mountain in Arabia, which hath affinity to that
Jerusalem which now is: and is in bondage with her children.

4:26. But that Jerusalem which is above is free: which is our mother.

4:27. For it is written: Rejoice, thou barren, that bearest not: break
forth and cry thou that travailest not: for many are the children of
the desolate, more than of her that hath a husband.

4:28. Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise.

4:29. But as then he that was born according to the flesh persecuted
him that was after the spirit: so also it is now.

4:30. But what saith the scripture? Cast out the bondwoman and her son:
for the son of the bondwoman shall not be heir with the son of the free
woman.

4:31. So then, brethren, we are not the children of the bondwoman but
of the free: by the freedom wherewith Christ has made us free.



Galatians Chapter 5


He exhorts them to stand to their Christian liberty. Of the fruits of
the flesh and of the spirit.

5:1. Stand fast and be not held again under the yoke of bondage.

5:2. Behold, I Paul tell you, that if you be circumcised, Christ shall
profit you nothing.

5:3. And I testify again to every man circumcising himself that he is a
debtor to do the whole law.

5:4. You are made void of Christ, you who are justified in the law: you
are fallen from grace.

5:5. For we in spirit, by faith, wait for the hope of justice.

5:6. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing nor
uncircumcision: but faith that worketh by Charity.

5:7. You did run well. What hath hindered you, that you should not obey
the truth?

5:8. This persuasion is not from him that calleth you.

5:9. A little leaven corrupteth the whole lump.

5:10. I have confidence in you in the Lord that you will not be of
another mind: but he that troubleth you shall bear the judgment,
whosoever he be.

5:11. And I, brethren, if I yet preach circumcision, why do I yet
suffer persecution? Then is the scandal of the cross made void.

5:12. I would they were even cut off, who trouble you.

5:13. For you, brethren, have been called unto liberty. Only make not
liberty an occasion to the flesh: but by charity of the spirit serve
one another.

5:14. For all the law is fulfilled in one word: Thou shalt love thy
neighbour as thyself.

5:15. But if you bite and devour one another: take heed you be not
consumed one of another.

5:16. I say then: Walk in the spirit: and you shall not fulfill the
lusts of the flesh.

5:17. For the flesh lusteth against the spirit: and the spirit against
the flesh: For these are contrary one to another: so that you do not
the things that you would.

5:18. But if you are led by the spirit, you are not under the law.

5:19. Now the works of the flesh are manifest: which are fornication,
uncleanness, immodesty, luxury,

5:20. Idolatry, witchcrafts, enmities, contentions, emulations, wraths,
quarrels, dissensions, sects,

5:21. Envies, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like. Of the
which I foretell you, as I have foretold to you, that they who do such
things shall not obtain the kingdom of God.

5:22. But the fruit of the Spirit is, charity, joy, peace, patience,
benignity, goodness, longanimity,

5:23. Mildness, faith, modesty, continency, chastity. Against such
there is no law.

5:24. And they that are Christ's have crucified their flesh, with the
vices and concupiscences.

5:25. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.

5:26. Let us not be made desirous of vain glory, provoking one another,
envying one another.



Galatians Chapter 6


He exhorts to charity, humility and all virtue. He glories in nothing
but in the cross of Christ.

6:1. Brethren, and if a man be overtaken in any fault, you, who are
spiritual, instruct such a one in the spirit of meekness, considering
thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

6:2. Bear ye one another's burdens: and so you shall fulfil the law of
Christ.

6:3. For if any man think himself to be some thing, whereas he is
nothing, he deceiveth himself.

6:4. But let every one prove his own work: and so he shall have glory
in himself only and not in another.

6:5. For every one shall bear his own burden.

6:6. And let him that is instructed in the word communicate to him that
instructeth him, in all good things.

6:7. Be not deceived: God is not mocked.

6:8. For what things a man shall sow, those also shall he reap. For he
that soweth in his flesh of the flesh also shall reap corruption. But
he that soweth in the spirit of the spirit shall reap life everlasting.

6:9. And in doing good, let us not fail. For in due time we shall reap,
not failing.

6:10. Therefore, whilst we have time, let us work good to all men, but
especially to those who are of the household of the faith.

6:11. See what a letter I have written to you with my own hand.

6:12. For as many as desire to please in the flesh, they constrain you
to be circumcised, only that they may not suffer the persecution of the
cross of Christ.

6:13. For neither they themselves who are circumcised keep the law: but
they will have you to be circumcised, that they may glory in your
flesh.

6:14. But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord
Jesus Christ: by whom the world is crucified to me, and I to the world.

6:15. For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor
uncircumcision: but a new creature.

6:16. And whosoever shall follow this rule, peace on them and mercy:
and upon the Israel of God.

6:17. From henceforth let no man be troublesome to me: for I bear the
marks of the Lord Jesus in my body.

6:18. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brethren.
Amen.




THE EPISTLE OF ST. PAUL TO THE EPHESIANS



Ephesus was the capital of Lesser Asia, and celebrated for the temple
of Diana, to which the most part of the people of the East went
frequently to worship. But St. Paul having preached the Gospel there,
for two years the first time and afterwards for about a year, converted
many. He wrote this Epistle to them when he was a prisoner in Rome; and
sent it by Tychicus. He admonishes them to hold firmly the faith which
they had received and warns them, and also those of the neighbouring
cities, against the sophistry of philosophers and doctrine of false
teachers who were come among them. The matters of faith contained in
this Epistle are exceedingly sublime, and consequently very difficult
to be understood. It was written about twenty-nine years after our
Lord's Ascension.



Ephesians Chapter 1


The great blessings we have received through Christ. He is the head of
all the church.

1:1. Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God, to all the
saints who are at Ephesus and to the faithful in Christ Jesus.

1:2. Grace be to you and peace, from God the Father and from the Lord
Jesus Christ.

1:3. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath
blessed us with spiritual blessings in heavenly places, in Christ:

In heavenly places. . .or, in heavenly things. In coelestibus.

1:4. As he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we
should be holy and unspotted in his sight in charity.

1:5. Who hath predestinated us unto the adoption of children through
Jesus Christ unto himself: according to the purpose of his will:

1:6. Unto the praise of the glory of his grace, in which he hath graced
us, in his beloved son.

1:7. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the remission of
sins, according to the riches of his, grace,

1:8. Which hath superabounded in us, in all wisdom and prudence,

1:9. That he might make known unto us the mystery of his will,
according to his good pleasure, which he hath purposed in him,

1:10. In the dispensation of the fulness of times, to re-establish all
things in Christ, that are in heaven and on earth, in him.

1:11. In whom we also are called by lot, being predestinated according
to the purpose of him who worketh all things according to the counsel
of his will.

1:12. That we may be unto the praise of his glory: we who before hoped
in Christ:

1:13. In whom you also, after you had heard the word of truth (the
gospel of your salvation), in whom also believing, you were signed with
the holy Spirit of promise.

1:14. Who is the pledge of our inheritance, unto the redemption of
acquisition, unto the praise of his glory.

Acquisition. . .that is, a purchased possession.

1:15. Wherefore, I also, hearing of your faith that is in the Lord
Jesus and of your love towards all the saints,

1:16. Cease not to give thanks for you, making commemoration of you in
my prayers,

1:17. That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may
give unto you the spirit of wisdom and of revelation, in the knowledge
of him:

1:18. The eyes of your heart enlightened that you may know what the
hope is of his calling and what are the riches of the glory of his
inheritance in the saints.

1:19. And what is the exceeding greatness of his power towards us, who
believe according to the operation of the might of his power,

1:20. Which he wrought in Christ, raising him up from the dead and
setting him on his right hand in the heavenly places.

1:21. Above all principality and power and virtue and dominion and
every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that
which is to come.

1:22. And he hath subjected all things under his feet and hath made him
head over all the church,

1:23. Which is his body and the fulness of him who is filled all in
all.



Ephesians Chapter 2


All our good comes through Christ. He is our peace.

2:1. And you, when you were dead in your offences and sins,

2:2. Wherein in time past you walked according to the course of this
world, according to the prince of the power of this air, of the spirit
that now worketh on the children of unbelief:

2:3. In which also we all conversed in time past, in the desires of our
flesh, fulfilling the will of the flesh and of our thoughts, and were
by nature children of wrath, even as the rest:

2:4. But God (who is rich in mercy) for his exceeding charity wherewith
he loved us

2:5. Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together in
Christ (by whose grace you are saved)

2:6. And hath raised us up together and hath made us sit together in
the heavenly places, through Christ Jesus.

2:7. That he might shew in the ages to come the abundant riches of his
grace, in his bounty towards us in Christ Jesus.

2:8. For by grace you are saved through faith: and that not of
yourselves, for it is the gift of God.

2:9. Not of works, that no man may glory.

Not of works. . .as of our own growth, or from ourselves; but as from
the grace of God.

2:10. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus in good
works, which God hath prepared that we should walk in them.

2:11. For which cause be mindful that you, being heretofore gentiles is
the flesh, who are called uncircumcision by that which is called
circumcision in the flesh, made by hands:

2:12. That you were at that time without Christ, being aliens from the
conversation of Israel and strangers to the testament, having no hope
of the promise and without God in this world.

2:13. But now in Christ Jesus, you, who some time were afar off, are
made nigh by the blood of Christ.

2:14. For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and breaking down
the middle wall of partition, the enmities in his flesh:

2:15. Making void the law of commandments contained in decrees: that he
might make the two in himself into one new man, making peace

2:16. And might reconcile both to God in one body by the cross, killing
the enmities in himself.

2:17. And coming, he preached peace to you that were afar off: and
peace to them that were nigh.

2:18. For by him we have access both in one Spirit to the Father.

2:19. Now therefore you are no more strangers and foreigners: but you
are fellow citizens with the saints and the domestics of God,

2:20. Built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus
Christ himself being the chief corner stone:

2:21. In whom all the building, being framed together, groweth up into
an holy temple in the Lord.

2:22. In whom you also are built together into an habitation of God in
the Spirit.



Ephesians Chapter 3


The mystery hidden from former ages was discovered to the apostle, to
be imparted to the Gentiles. He prays that they may be strengthened in
God.

3:1. For this cause, I Paul, the prisoner of Jesus Christ, for you
Gentiles:

3:2. If yet you have heard of the dispensation of the grace of God
which is given me towards you:

3:3. How that, according to revelation, the mystery has been made known
to me, as I have written above in a few words:

3:4. As you reading, may understand my knowledge in the mystery of
Christ,

3:5. Which in other generations was not known to the sons of men, as it
is now revealed to his holy apostles and prophets in the Spirit:

3:6. That the Gentiles should be fellow heirs and of the same body: and
copartners of his promise in Christ Jesus, by the gospel

3:7. Of which I am made a minister, according to the gift of the grace
of God, which is given to me according to the operation of his power.

3:8. To me, the least of all the saints, is given this grace, to preach
among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ:

3:9. And to enlighten all men, that they may see what is the
dispensation of the mystery which hath been hidden from eternity in God
who created all things:

3:10. That the manifold wisdom of God may be made known to the
principalities and powers in heavenly places through the church,

3:11. According to the eternal purpose which he made in Christ Jesus
our Lord:

3:12. In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith
of him.

3:13. Wherefore I pray you not to faint at my tribulations for you,
which is your glory.

3:14. For this cause I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus
Christ,

3:15. Of whom all paternity in heaven and earth is named:

All paternity. . .Or, the whole family. God is the Father, both of
angels and men; whosoever besides is named father, is so named with
subordination to him.

3:16. That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to
be strengthened by his Spirit with might unto the inward man:

3:17. That Christ may dwell by faith in your hearts: that, being rooted
and founded in charity,

3:18. You may be able to comprehend, with all the saints, what is the
breadth and length and height and depth,

3:19. To know also the charity of Christ, which surpasseth all
knowledge: that you may be filled unto all the fulness of God.

3:20. Now to him who is able to do all things more abundantly than we
desire or understand, according to the power that worketh in us:

3:21. To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus, unto all
generations, world without end. Amen.



Ephesians Chapter 4


He exhorts them to unity, to put on the new man, and to fly sin.

4:1. I therefore, a prisoner in the Lord, beseech you that you walk
worthy of the vocation in which you are called:

4:2. With all humility and mildness, with patience, supporting one
another in charity.

4:3. Careful to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.

4:4. One body and one Spirit: as you are called in one hope of your
calling.

4:5. One Lord, one faith, one baptism.

4:6. One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and
in us all.

4:7. But to every one of us is given grace, according to the measure of
the giving of Christ.

4:8. Wherefore he saith: Ascending on high, he led captivity captive:
he gave gifts to men.

4:9. Now that he ascended, what is it, but because he also descended
first into the lower parts of the earth?

4:10. He that descended is the same also that ascended above all the
heavens: that he might fill all things.

4:11. And he gave some apostles, and some prophets, and other some
evangelists, and other some pastors and doctors:

Gave some apostles--Until we all meet, etc. . .Here it is plainly
expressed, that Christ has left in his church a perpetual succession of
orthodox pastors and teachers, to preserve the faithful in unity and
truth.

4:12. For the perfecting of the saints, for the word of the ministry,
for the edifying of the body of Christ:

4:13. Until we all meet into the unity of faith and of the knowledge of
the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the age of the
fulness of Christ:

4:14. That henceforth we be no more children tossed to and fro and
carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the wickedness of men, by
cunning craftiness by which they lie in wait to deceive.

4:15. But doing the truth in charity, we may in all things grow up in
him who is the head, even Christ:

4:16. From whom the whole body, being compacted and fitly joined
together, by what every joint supplieth, according to the operation in
the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body, unto the
edifying of itself in charity.

4:17. This then I say and testify in the Lord: That henceforward you
walk not as also the Gentiles walk in the vanity of their mind:

4:18. Having their understanding darkened: being alienated from the
life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the
blindness of their hearts.

4:19. Who despairing have given themselves up to lasciviousness, unto
the working of all uncleanness, unto covetousness.

4:20. But you have not so learned Christ:

4:21. If so be that you have heard him and have been taught in him, as
the truth is in Jesus:

4:22. To put off, according to former conversation, the old man, who is
corrupted according to the desire of error.

4:23. And be renewed in spirit of your mind:

4:24. And put on the new man, who according to God is created in
justice and holiness of truth.

4:25. Wherefore, putting away lying, speak ye the truth, every man with
his neighbour. For we are members one of another.

4:26. Be angry: and sin not. Let not the sun go down upon your anger.

4:27. Give not place to the devil.

4:28. He that stole, let him now steal no more: but rather let him
labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may
have something to give to him that suffereth need.

4:29. Let no evil speech proceed from your mouth: but that which is
good, to the edification of faith: that it may administer grace to the
hearers.

4:30. And grieve not the holy Spirit of God: whereby you are sealed
unto the day of redemption.

4:31. Let all bitterness and anger and indignation and clamour and
blasphemy be put away from you, with all malice.

4:32. And be ye kind one to another: merciful, forgiving one another,
even as God hath forgiven you in Christ.



Ephesians Chapter 5


Exhortations to a virtuous life. The mutual duties of man and wife, by
the example of Christ and of the Church.

5:1. Be ye therefore followers of God, as most dear children:

5:2. And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us and hath delivered
himself for us, an oblation and a sacrifice to God for an odour of
sweetness.

5:3. But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not so
much as be named among you, as becometh saints:

5:4. Or obscenity or foolish talking or scurrility, which is to no
purpose: but rather giving of thanks.

5:5. For know you this and understand: That no fornicator or unclean or
covetous person (which is a serving of idols) hath inheritance in the
kingdom of Christ and of God.

5:6. Let no man deceive you with vain words. For because of these
things cometh the anger of God upon the children of unbelief.

5:7. Be ye not therefore partakers with them.

5:8. For you were heretofore darkness, but now light in the Lord. Walk
then as children of the light.

5:9. For the fruit of the light is in all goodness and justice and
truth:

5:10. Proving what is well pleasing to God.

5:11. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness: but
rather reprove them.

5:12. For the things that are done by them in secret, it is a shame
even to speak of.

5:13. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light:
for all that is made manifest is light.

5:14. Wherefore he saith: Rise, thou that sleepest, and arise from the
dead: and Christ shall enlighten thee.

5:15. See therefore, brethren, how you walk circumspectly: not as
unwise,

5:16. But as wise: redeeming the time, because the days are evil.

5:17. Wherefore, become not unwise: but understanding what is the will
of God.

5:18. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is luxury: but be ye filled
with the Holy Spirit,

5:19. Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual
canticles, singing and making melody in your hearts to the Lord:

5:20. Giving thanks always for all things, in the name of our Lord
Jesus Christ, to God and the Father:

5:21. Being subject one to another, in the fear of Christ.

5:22. Let women be subject to their husbands, as to the Lord:

5:23. Because the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ is the
head of the church. He is the saviour of his body.

5:24. Therefore as the church is subject to Christ: so also let the
wives be to their husbands in all things.

As the church is subject to Christ. . .The church then, according to St.
Paul, is ever obedient to Christ, and can never fall from him, but
remain faithful to him, unspotted and unchanged to the end of the
world.

5:25. Husbands, love your wives, as Christ also loved the church and
delivered himself up for it:

5:26. That he might sanctify it, cleansing it by the laver of water in
the word of life:

5:27. That he might present it to himself, a glorious church, not
having spot or wrinkle or any such thing; but that it should be holy
and without blemish.

5:28. So also ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He
that loveth his wife loveth himself.

5:29. For no man ever hated his own flesh, but nourisheth and
cherisheth it, as also Christ doth the church:

5:30. Because we are members of him, body, of his flesh and of his
bones.

5:31. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother: and shall
cleave to his wife. And they shall be two in one flesh.

5:32. This is a great sacrament: but I speak in Christ and in the
church.

5:33. Nevertheless, let every one of you in particular love for his
wife as himself: And let the wife fear her husband.



Ephesians Chapter 6


Duties of children and servants. The Christian's armour.

6:1. Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is just.

6:2. Honour thy father and thy mother, which is the first commandment
with a promise:

6:3. That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest be long lived upon
earth.

6:4. And you, fathers, provoke not your children to anger: but bring
them up in the discipline and correction of the Lord.

6:5. Servants, be obedient to them that are your lords according to the
flesh, with fear and trembling, in the simplicity of your heart, as to
Christ.

6:6. Not serving to the eye, as it were pleasing men: but, as the
servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart.

6:7. With a good will serving, as to the Lord, and not to men.

6:8. Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man shall do, the same
shall he receive from the Lord, whether he be bond or free.

6:9. And you, masters, do the same things to them, forbearing
threatenings: knowing that the Lord both of them and you is in heaven.
And there is no respect of persons with him.

6:10. Finally, brethren, be strengthened in the Lord and in the might
of his power.

6:11. Put you on the armour of God, that you may be able to stand
against the deceits of the devil.

6:12. For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood; but against
principalities and powers, against the rulers of the world of this
darkness, against the spirits of wickedness in the high places.

High places, or heavenly places. . .That is to say, in the air, the
lowest of the celestial regions; in which God permits these wicked
spirits or fallen angels to wander.

6:13. Therefore, take unto you the armour of God, that you may be able
to resist in the evil day and to stand in all things perfect.

6:14. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth and
having on the breastplate of justice:

6:15. And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace.

6:16. In all things taking the shield of faith, wherewith you may be
able to extinguish all the fiery darts of the most wicked one.

6:17. And take unto you the helmet of salvation and the sword of the
Spirit (which is the word of God).

6:18. By all prayer and supplication praying at all times in the
spirit: and in the same watching with all instance and supplication for
all the saints:

6:19. And for me, that speech may be given me, that I may open my mouth
with confidence, to make known the mystery of the gospel,

6:20. For which I am an ambassador in a chain: so that therein I may be
bold to speak according as I ought.

6:21. But that you also may know the things that concern me and what I
am doing, Tychicus, my dearest brother and faithful minister in the
Lord, will make known to you all things:

6:22. Whom I have sent to you for this same purpose: that you may know
the things concerning us, and that he may comfort your hearts.

6:23. Peace be to the brethren and charity with faith, from God the
Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

6:24. Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in
incorruption. Amen.

In incorruption. . .That is, with a pure and perfect love.




THE EPISTLE OF ST. PAUL TO THE PHILIPPIANS



The Philippians were the first among the Macedonians converted to the
faith. They had a great veneration for St. Paul and supplied his wants
when he was a prisoner in Rome, sending to him by Epaphroditus, by whom
he sent this Epistle; in which he recommends charity, unity and
humility and warns them against false teachers, whom he calls dogs and
enemies of the cross of Christ. He also returns thanks for their
benefactions. It was written about twenty-nine years after our Lord's
Ascension.



Philippians Chapter 1


The apostle's affection for the Philippians.

1:1. Paul and Timothy, the servants of Jesus Christ: to all the saints
in Christ Jesus who are at Philippi, with the bishops and deacons.

1:2. Grace be unto you and peace, from God our Father and from the Lord
Jesus Christ.

1:3. I give thanks to my God in every remembrance of you:

1:4. Always in all my prayers making supplication for you all with joy:

1:5. For your communication in the gospel of Christ, from the first day
unto now.

1:6. Being confident of this very thing: that he who hath begun a good
work in you will perfect it unto the day of Christ Jesus.

1:7. As it is meet for me to think this for you all, for that I have
you in my heart; and that, in my bands and in the defence and
confirmation of the gospel, you all are partakers of my joy.

1:8. For God is my witness how I long after you all in the bowels of
Jesus Christ.

1:9. And this I pray: That your charity may more and more abound in
knowledge and in all understanding:

1:10. That you may approve the better things: that you may be sincere
and without offence unto the day of Christ:

1:11. Filled with the fruit of justice, through Jesus Christ, unto the
glory and praise of God.

1:12. Now, brethren, I desire you should know that the things which
have happened to me have fallen out rather to the furtherance of the
gospel:

1:13. So that my bands are made manifest in Christ, in all the court
and in all other places.

1:14. And many of the brethren in the Lord, growing confident by my
bands, are much more bold to speak the word of God without fear.

1:15. Some indeed, even out of envy and contention: but some also for
good will preach Christ.

1:16. Some out of charity, knowing that I am set for the defence of the
gospel.

1:17. And some out of contention preach Christ not sincerely: supposing
that they raise affliction to my bands.

1:18. But what then? So that by all means, whether by occasion or by
truth, Christ be preached: in this also I rejoice, yea, and will
rejoice.

1:19. For I know that this shall fall out to me unto salvation, through
your prayer and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ,

1:20. According to my expectation and hope; that in nothing I shall be
confounded: but with all confidence, as always, so now also, shall
Christ be magnified in my body, whether it be by life or by death.

1:21. For to me, to live is Christ: and to die is gain.

1:22. And if to live in the flesh: this is to me the fruit of labour.
And what I shall choose I know not.

This is to me, etc. . .His meaning is, that although his dying
immediately for Christ would be his gain, by putting him presently in
possession of heaven; yet he is doubtful what he should choose, because
by staying longer in the flesh, he should be more beneficial to the
souls of his neighbours.

1:23. But I am straitened between two: having a desire to be dissolved
and to be with Christ, a thing by far the better.

1:24. But to abide still in the flesh is needful for you.

1:25. And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and
continue with you all, for your furtherance and joy of faith:

1:26. That your rejoicing may abound in Christ Jesus for me, by my
coming to you again.

1:27. Only let your conversation be worthy of the gospel of Christ:
that, whether I come and see you, or, being absent, may hear of you,
that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind labouring together for
the faith of the gospel.

1:28. And in nothing be ye terrified by the adversaries: which to them
is a cause of perdition, but to you of salvation, and this from God.

1:29. For unto you it is given for Christ, not only to believe in him,
but also to suffer for him:

1:30. Having the same conflict as that which you have seen in me and
now have heard of me.



Philippians Chapter 2


He recommends them to unity and humility, and to work out their
salvation with fear and trembling.

2:1. If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of
charity, if any society of the spirit, if any bowels of commiseration:

2:2. Fulfil ye my joy, that you be of one mind, having the same
charity, being of one accord, agreeing in sentiment.

2:3. Let nothing be done through contention: neither by vain glory. But
in humility, let each esteem others better than themselves:

2:4. Each one not considering the things that are his own, but those
that are other men's.

2:5. For let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

2:6. Who being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal
with God:

2:7. But emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in
the likeness of men, and in habit found as a man.

Emptied himself, exinanivit. . .made himself as of no account.

2:8. He humbled himself, becoming obedient unto death, even to the
death of the cross.

2:9. For which cause, God also hath exalted him and hath given him a
name which is above all names:

2:10. That in the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of those that
are in heaven, on earth, and under the earth:

2:11. And that every tongue should confess that the Lord Jesus Christ
is in the glory of God the Father.

2:12. Wherefore, my dearly beloved, (as you have always obeyed, not as
in my presence only but much more now in my absence) with fear and
trembling work out your salvation.

With fear, etc. . .This is against the false faith, and presumptuous
security of modern sectaries.

2:13. For it is God who worketh in you, both to will and to accomplish,
according to his good will.

2:14. And do ye all things without murmurings and hesitations:

2:15. That you may be blameless and sincere children of God, without
reproof, in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation: among whom
you shine as lights in the world.

2:16. Holding forth the word of life to my glory in the day of Christ:
because I have not run in vain, nor laboured in vain.

2:17. Yea, and if I be made a victim upon the sacrifice and service of
your faith, I rejoice and congratulate with you all.

2:18. And for the selfsame thing, do you also rejoice and congratulate
with me.

2:19. And I hope in the Lord Jesus to send Timothy unto you shortly,
that I also may be of good comfort, when I know the things concerning
you.

2:20. For I have no man so of the same mind, who with sincere affection
is solicitous for you.

2:21. For all seek the things that are their own not the things that
are Jesus Christ's.

2:22. Now know ye the proof of him: that as a son with the father, so
hath he served with me in the gospel.

2:23. Him therefore I hope to send unto you immediately: so soon as I
shall see how it will go with me.

2:24. And I trust in the Lord that I myself also shall come to you
shortly.

2:25. But I have thought it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my
brother and fellow labourer and fellow soldier, but your apostle: and
he that hath ministered to my wants.

2:26. For indeed he longed after you all: and was sad, for that you had
heard that he was sick.

2:27. For indeed he was sick, nigh unto death: but God had mercy on
him. And not only on him, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow
upon sorrow.

2:28. Therefore, I sent him the more speedily: that seeing him again,
you may rejoice, and I may be without sorrow.

2:29. Receive him therefore with all joy in the Lord: and treat with
honour such as he is.

2:30. Because for the work of Christ he came to the point of death:
delivering his life, that he might fulfil that which on your part was
wanting towards my service.



Philippians Chapter 3


He warneth them against false teachers. He counts all other things
loss, that he may gain Christ.

3:1. As to the rest, my brethren, rejoice in the Lord. To write the
same things to you, to me indeed is not wearisome, but to you is
necessary.

3:2. Beware of dogs: beware of evil workers: beware of the concision.

3:3. For we are the circumcision, who in spirit serve God and glory in
Christ Jesus, not having confidence in the flesh.

3:4. Though I might also have confidence in the flesh. If any other
thinketh he may have confidence in the flesh, I more:

3:5. Being circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel, of the
tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews. According to the law, a
Pharisee:

3:6. According to zeal, persecuting the church of God: According to the
justice that is in the law, conversing without blame.

3:7. But the things that were gain to me, the same I have counted loss
for Christ.

3:8. Furthermore, I count all things to be but loss for the excellent
knowledge of Jesus Christ, my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss
of all things and count them but as dung, that I may gain Christ.

3:9. And may be found in him, not having my justice, which is of the
law, but that which is of the faith of Christ Jesus, which is of God:
justice in faith.

3:10. That I may know him and the power of his resurrection and the
fellowship of his sufferings: being made conformable to his death,

3:11. If by any means I may attain to the resurrection which is from
the dead.

3:12. Not as though I had already attained, or were already perfect:
but I follow after, if I may by any means apprehend, wherein I am also
apprehended by Christ Jesus.

3:13. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended. But one
thing I do: Forgetting the things that are behind and stretching forth
myself to those that are before,

3:14. I press towards the mark, to the prize of the supernal vocation
of God in Christ Jesus.

3:15. Let us therefore, as many as are perfect, be thus minded: and if
in any thing you be otherwise minded, this also God will reveal to you,

3:16. Nevertheless, whereunto we are come, that we be of the same mind,
let us also continue in the same rule.

3:17. Be ye followers of me, brethren: and observe them who walk so as
you have our model.

3:18. For many walk, of whom I have told you often (and now tell you
weeping) that they are enemies of the cross of Christ:

3:19. Whose end is destruction: whose God is their belly: and whose
glory is in their shame: who mind earthly things.

3:20. But our conversation is in heaven: from whence also we look for
the Saviour, our Lord Jesus Christ,

3:21. Who will reform the body of our lowness, made like to the body of
his glory, according to the operation whereby also he is able to subdue
all things unto himself.



Philippians Chapter 4


He exhorts them to perseverance in all good and acknowledges their
charitable contributions to him.

4:1. Therefore my dearly beloved brethren and most desired, my joy and
my crown: so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.

4:2. I beg of Evodia and I beseech Syntyche to be of one mind in the
Lord.

4:3. And I entreat thee also, my sincere companion, help those women
who have laboured with me in the gospel, with Clement and the rest of
my fellow labourers, whose names are in the book of life.

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

4:5. Let your modesty be known to all men. The Lord is nigh.

4:6. Be nothing solicitous: but in every thing, by prayer and
supplication, with thanksgiving, let your petitions be made known to
God.

4:7. And the peace of God, which surpasseth all understanding, keep
your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

4:8. For the rest, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever
modest, whatsoever just, whatsoever holy, whatsoever lovely, whatsoever
of good fame, if there be any virtue, if any praise of discipline:
think on these things.

For the rest, brethren, whatsoever things are true, etc. . .Here the
apostle enumerates general precepts of morality, which they ought to
practise. Whatsoever things are true. . .in words, in promises, in
lawful oaths, etc., he commands rectitude of mind, and sincerity of
heart. Whatsoever modest. . .by these words he prescribes gravity in
manners, modesty in dress, and decency in conversation. Whatsoever
just. . .That is, in dealing with others, in buying or selling, in trade
or business, to be fair and honest. Whatsoever holy. . .by these words
may be understood, that those who are in a religious state professed,
or in holy orders, should lead a life of sanctity and chastity,
according to the vows they make; but these words being also applied to
those in the world, indicate the virtuous life they are bound by the
divine commandments to follow. Whatsoever lovely. . .that is, to
practise those good offices in society, that procure us the esteem and
good will of our neighbours. Whatsoever of good fame. . .That is, that
by our conduct and behaviour we should edify our neighbours, and give
them good example by our actions. If there be any virtue, if any praise
of discipline. . .that those in error, by seeing the morality and good
discipline of the true religion, may be converted. And finally, the
apostle commands, not only the Philippians, but all Christians, to
think on these things. . .that is, to make it their study and concern
that the peace of God might be with them.

4:9. The things which you have both learned and received and heard and
seen in me, these do ye: and the God of peace shall be with you.

4:10. Now I rejoice in the Lord exceedingly that now at length your
thought for me hath flourished again, as you did also think; but you
were busied.

4:11. I speak not as it were for want. For I have learned, in
whatsoever state I am, to be content therewith.

4:12. I know both how to be brought low, and I know how to abound
(every where and in all things I am instructed): both to be full and to
be hungry: both to abound and to suffer need.

4:13. I can do all things in him who strengtheneth me.

4:14. Nevertheless, you have done well in communicating to my
tribulation.

4:15. And you also know, O Philippians, that in the beginning of the
gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me
as concerning giving and receiving, but you only.

4:16. For unto Thessalonica also you sent once and again for my use.

4:17. Not that I seek the gift: but I seek the fruit that may abound to
your account.

4:18. But I have all and abound: I am filled, having received from
Epaphroditus the things you sent, an odour of sweetness, an acceptable
sacrifice, pleasing to God.

4:19. And may my God supply all your want, according to his riches in
glory in Christ Jesus.

4:20. Now to God and our Father be glory, world without end. Amen.

4:21. Salute ye every saint in Christ Jesus.

4:22. The brethren who are with me salute you. All the saints salute
you: especially they that are of Caesar's household.

4:23. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.




THE EPISTLE OF ST. PAUL TO THE COLOSSIANS



Colossa was a city of Phrygia, near Laodicea. It does not appear that
St. Paul had preached there himself, but that the Colossians were
converted by Epaphras, a disciple of the Apostles. However, as St. Paul
was the great Apostle of the Gentiles, he wrote this Epistle to the
Colossians when he was in prison, and about the same time that he wrote
to the Ephesians and Philippians. The exhortations and doctrine it
contains are similar to that which is set forth in his Epistle to the
Ephesians.



Colossians Chapter 1


He gives thanks for the grace bestowed upon the Colossians and prays
for them. Christ is the head of the church and the peacemaker through
his blood. Paul is his minister.

1:1. Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, by the will of God, and Timothy,
a brother:

1:2. To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ Jesus who are at
Colossa.

1:3. Grace be to you and peace, from God our Father and from the Lord
Jesus Christ. We give thanks to God and the Father of our Lord Jesus
Christ, praying always for you.

1:4. Hearing your faith in Christ Jesus and the love which you have
towards all the saints.

1:5. For the hope that is laid up for you in heaven, which you have
heard in the word of the truth of the gospel,

1:6. Which is come unto you, as also it is in the whole world and
bringeth forth fruit and groweth, even as it doth in you, since the day
you heard and knew the grace of God in truth.

1:7. As you learned of Epaphras, our most beloved fellow servant, who
is for you a faithful minister of Christ Jesus;

1:8. Who also hath manifested your love in the spirit.

1:9. Therefore we also, from the day that we heard it, cease not to
pray for you and to beg that you may be filled with the knowledge of
his will, in all wisdom and spiritual understanding:

1:10. That you may walk worthy of God, in all things pleasing; being
fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God:

1:11. Strengthened with all might according to the power of his glory,
in all patience and longsuffering with joy,

1:12. Giving thanks to God the Father, who hath made us worthy to be
partakers of the lot of the saints in light:

1:13. Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness and hath
translated us into the kingdom of the Son of his love,

1:14. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the remission of
sins:

1:15. Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every
creature:

The firstborn. . .That is, first begotten; as the Evangelist declares,
the only begotten of his Father: hence, St. Chrisostom explains
firstborn, not first created, as he was not created at all, but born of
his Father before all ages; that is, coeval with the Father and with
the Holy Ghost.

1:16. For in him were all things created in heaven and on earth,
visible and invisible, whether thrones, or dominations, or
principalities, or powers. All things were created by him and in him.

1:17. And he is before all: and by him all things consist.

1:18. And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning,
the firstborn from the dead, that in all things he may hold the
primacy:

1:19. Because in him, it hath well pleased the Father that all fulness
should dwell:

1:20. And through him to reconcile all things unto himself, making
peace through the blood of his cross, both as to the things that are on
earth and the things that are in heaven.

1:21. And you, whereas you were some time alienated and enemies in mind
in evil works:

1:22. Yet now he hath reconciled in the body of his flesh through
death, to present you holy and unspotted and blameless before him:

1:23. If so ye continue in the faith, grounded and settled, and
immoveable from the hope of the gospel which you have heard, which is
preached in all the creation that is under heaven: whereof I Paul am
made a minister.

1:24. Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you and fill up those things
that are wanting of the sufferings of Christ, in my flesh, for his
body, which is the church:

Wanting. . .There is no want in the sufferings of Christ in himself as
head: but many sufferings are still wanting, or are still to come, in
his body the church, and his members the faithful.

1:25. Whereof I am made a minister according to the dispensation of
God, which is given me towards you, that I may fulfil the word of God:

1:26. The mystery which hath been hidden from ages and generations, but
now is manifested to his saints,

1:27. To whom God would make known the riches of the glory of this
mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ, in you the hope of glory.

1:28. Whom we preach, admonishing every man and teaching every man in
all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.

1:29. Wherein also I labour, striving according to his working which he
worketh in me in power.



Colossians Chapter 2


He warns them against the impostures of the philosophers and the Jewish
teachers, that would withdraw them from Christ.

2:1. For I would have you know what manner of care I have for you and
for them that are at Laodicea and whosoever have not seen my face in
the flesh:

2:2. That their hearts may be comforted, being instructed in charity
and unto all riches of fulness of understanding, unto the knowledge of
the mystery of God the Father and of Christ Jesus:

2:3. In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.

2:4. Now this I say, that no man may deceive you by loftiness of words.

2:5. For though I be absent in body, yet in spirit I am with you,
rejoicing, and beholding your order and the steadfastness of your faith
which is in Christ.

2:6. As therefore you have received Jesus Christ the Lord, walk ye in
him:

2:7. Rooted and built up in him and confirmed in the faith, as also you
have learned: abounding in him in thanksgiving.

2:8. Beware lest any man cheat you by philosophy and vain deceit:
according to the tradition of men according to the elements of the
world and not according to Christ.

2:9. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead corporeally.

2:10. And you are filled in him, who is the head of all principality
and power.

2:11. In whom also you are circumcised with circumcision not made by
hand in despoiling of the body of the flesh: but in the circumcision of
Christ.

2:12. Buried with him in baptism: in whom also you are risen again by
the faith of the operation of God who hath raised him up from the dead.

2:13. And you, when you were dead in your sins and the uncircumcision
of your flesh, he hath quickened together with him, forgiving you all
offences:

2:14. Blotting out the handwriting of the decree that was against us,
which was contrary to us. And he hath taken the same out of the way,
fastening it to the cross.

2:15. And despoiling the principalities and powers, he hath exposed
them confidently in open shew, triumphing over them in himself.

2:16. Let no man therefore judge you in meat or in drink or in respect
of a festival day or of the new moon or of the sabbaths,

In meat, etc. . .He means with regard to the Jewish observations of the
distinction of clean and unclean meats; and of their festivals, new
moons, and sabbaths, as being no longer obligatory.

2:17. Which are a shadow of things to come: but the body is of Christ.

2:18. Let no man seduce you, willing in humility and religion of
angels, walking in the things which he hath not seen, in vain puffed up
by the sense of his flesh:


 


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