The Holy Bible

Part 12 out of 16




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:

Willing, etc. . .That is, by a self willed, self invented, superstitious
worship, falsely pretending humility, but really proceeding from pride.
Such was the worship, that many of the philosophers (against whom St.
Paul speaks, ver. 8) paid to angels or demons, by sacrificing to them,
as carriers of intelligence betwixt God and men; pretending humility in
so doing, as if God was too great to be addressed by men; and setting
aside the mediatorship of Jesus Christ, who is the head both of angels
and men. Such also was the worship paid by the ancient heretics,
disciples of Simon and Menander, to the angels, whom they believed to
be makers and lords of this lower world. This is certain, that they
whom the apostle here condemns, did not hold the head, (ver. 19,) that
is, Jesus Christ, and his mediatorship; and therefore what he writes
here no way touches the Catholic doctrine and practice, of desiring our
good angels to pray to God for us, through Jesus Christ. St. Jerome
[Epist. ad Algas.] understands by the religion or service of angels,
the Jewish teachers, who sought to subject the new Christians to the
observance of the Mosaic law.

2:19. And not holding the head, from which the whole body, by joints
and bands, being supplied with nourishment and compacted, groweth into
the increase of God.

2:20. If then you be dead with Christ from the elements of this world,
why do you yet decree as though living in the world?

2:21. Touch not: taste not: handle not.

Touch not, etc. . .The meaning is, that Christians should not subject
themselves, either to the ordinances of the old law, forbidding
touching or tasting things unclean; or to the superstitious invention
of heretics, imposing such restraints, under pretence of wisdom,
humility, or mortification.

2:22. Which all are unto destruction by the very use, according to the
precepts and doctrines of men.

2:23. Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in superstition and
humility, and not sparing the body; not in any honour to the filling of
the flesh.



Colossians Chapter 3


He exhorts them to put off the old man, and to put on the new. The
duties of wives and husbands, children and servants.

3:1. Therefore if you be risen with Christ, seek the things that are
above, where Christ is sitting at the right hand of God.

3:2. Mind the things that are above, not the things that are upon the
earth.

3:3. For you are dead: and your life is hid with Christ in God.

3:4. When Christ shall appear, who is your life, then you also shall
appear with him in glory.

3:5. Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth:
fornication, uncleanness, lust, evil concupiscence and covetousness,
which is the service of idols.

3:6. For which things the wrath of God cometh upon the children of
unbelief.

3:7. In which you also walked some time, when you lived in them.

3:8. But now put you also all away: anger, indignation, malice,
blasphemy, filthy speech out of your mouth.

3:9. Lie not one to another: stripping yourselves of the old man with
his deeds,

3:10. And putting on the new, him who is renewed unto knowledge,
according to the image of him that created him.

3:11. Where there is neither Gentile nor Jew, circumcision nor
uncircumcision, Barbarian nor Scythian, bond nor free. But Christ is
all and in all.

3:12. Put ye on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, the
bowels of mercy, benignity, humility, modesty, patience:

3:13. Bearing with one another and forgiving one another, if any have a
complaint against another. Even as the Lord hath forgiven you, so do
you also.

3:14. But above all these things have charity, which is the bond of
perfection.

3:15. And let the peace of Christ rejoice in your hearts, wherein also
you are called in one body: and be ye thankful.

3:16. Let the word of Christ dwell in you abundantly: in all wisdom,
teaching and admonishing one another in psalms, hymns and spiritual
canticles, singing in grace in your hearts to God.

3:17. All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of
the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

3:18. Wives, be subject to your husbands, as it behoveth in the Lord.

3:19. Husbands, love your wives and be not bitter towards them.

3:20. Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well
pleasing to the Lord.

3:21. Fathers, provoke not your children to indignation, lest they be
discouraged.

3:22. Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh:
not serving to the eye, as pleasing men: but in simplicity of heart,
fearing God.

3:23. Whatsoever you do, do it from the heart, as to the Lord, and not
to men:

3:24. Knowing that you shall receive of the Lord the reward of
inheritance. Serve ye the Lord Christ.

3:25. For he that doth wrong shall receive for that which he hath done
wrongfully. And there is no respect of persons with God.



Colossians Chapter 4


He recommends constant prayer and wisdom. Various salutations.

4:1. Masters, do to your servants that which is just and equal: knowing
that you also have a master in heaven.

4:2. Be instant in prayer: watching in it with thanksgiving.

4:3. Praying withal for us also, that God may open unto us a door of
speech to speak the mystery of Christ (for which also I am bound):

4:4. That I may make it manifest as I ought to speak.

4:5. Walk with wisdom towards them that are without, redeeming the
time.

4:6. Let your speech be always in grace seasoned with salt: that you
may know how you ought to answer every man.

4:7. All the things that concern me, Tychicus, our dearest brother and
faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord, will make known to
you.

4:8. What I have sent to you for this same purpose, that he may know
the things that concern you and comfort your hearts:

4:9. With Onesimus, a most beloved and faithful brother, who is one of
you. All things that are done here, they shall make known to you.

4:10. Aristarchus, my fellow prisoner, saluteth you: and Mark, the
cousin german of Barnabas, touching whom you have received
commandments. If he come unto you, receive him.

4:11. And Jesus that is called Justus: who are of the circumcision.
These only are my helpers, in the kingdom of God: who have been a
comfort to me.

4:12. Epaphras saluteth you, who is one of you, a servant of Christ
Jesus, who is always solicitous for you in prayers, that you may stand
perfect and full in all the will of God.

4:13. For I bear him testimony that he hath much labour for you and for
them that are at Laodicea and them at Hierapolis.

4:14. Luke, the most dear physician, saluteth you: and Demas.

4:15. Salute the brethren who are at Laodicea: and Nymphas and the
church that is in his house.

4:16. And when this epistle shall have been read with you, cause that
it be read also in the church of the Laodiceans: and that you read that
which is of the Laodiceans.

And that you read that which is of the Laodiceans. . .What this epistle
was is uncertain, and annotators have given different opinions
concerning it. Some expound these words of an epistle which St. Paul
wrote to the Laodiceans, and is since lost, for that now extant is no
more than a collection of sentences out of the other epistles of St.
Paul; therefore it cannot be considered even as a part of that epistle.
Others explain that the text means a letter sent to St. Paul by the
Laodiceans, which he sends to the Colossians to be read by them.
However, this opinion does not seem well founded. Hence it is more
probable that St. Paul wrote an epistle from Rome to the Laodiceans,
about the same time that he wrote to the Colossians, as he had them
both equally at heart, and that he ordered that epistle to be read by
the Colossians for their instructions; and being neighbouring cities,
they might communicate to each other what they had received from him;
as one epistle might contain some matters not related in the other, and
would be equally useful for their concern; and more particularly as
they were equally disturbed by intruders and false teachers, against
which the apostle was anxious to warn them, lest they should be
infected by their pernicious doctrine.

4:17. And say to Archippus: Take heed to the ministry which thou hast
received in the Lord, that thou fulfil it.

4:18. The salutation of Paul with my own hand. Be mindful of my bands.
Grace be with you. Amen.




THE FIRST EPISTLE OF ST. PAUL TO THE THESSALONIANS



Thessalonica was the capital of Macedonia, in which St. Paul, having
preached the Gospel, converted some Jews and a great number of the
Gentiles: but the unbelieving Jews, envying his success, raised such a
commotion against him that he, and his companion, Sylvanus were obliged
to quit the city. Afterwards he went to Athens, where he heard that the
converts in Thessalonica were under a severe persecution, ever since
his departure; and lest they should lose their fortitude, he sent
Timothy to strengthen and comfort them in their sufferings. In the
meantime St. Paul came to Corinth, where he wrote this first Epistle,
and also the second to the Thessalonians, both in the same year, being
the nineteenth after our Lord's Ascension. These are the first of his
Epistles in the order of time.



1 Thessalonians Chapter 1


He gives thanks for the grace bestowed on the Thessalonians.

1:1. Paul and Sylvanus and Timothy to the church of the Thessalonians:
in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ.

1:2. Grace be to you and peace. We give thanks to God always for you
all: making a remembrance of you in our prayers without ceasing,

1:3. Being mindful of the work of your faith and labour and charity:
and of the enduring of the hope of our Lord Jesus Christ before God and
our Father.

1:4. Knowing, brethren, beloved of God, your election:

1:5. For our gospel hath not been unto you in word only, but in power
also: and in the Holy Ghost and in much fulness, as you know what
manner of men we have been among you for your sakes.

1:6. And you became followers of us and of the Lord: receiving the word
in much tribulation, with joy of the Holy Ghost:

1:7. So that you were made a pattern to all that believe in Macedonia
and in Achaia.

1:8. For from you was spread abroad the word of the Lord not only in
Macedonia and in Achaia but also in every place: your faith which is
towards God, is gone forth, so that we need not to speak any thing.

1:9. For they themselves relate of us, what manner of entering in we
had unto you: and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living
and true God.

1:10. And to wait for his Son from heaven (whom he raised up from the
dead), Jesus, who hath delivered us from the wrath to come.



1 Thessalonians Chapter 2


The sincerity of the apostle's preaching the gospel to them and of
their receiving it.

2:1. For yourselves know, brethren, our entrance in unto you, that it
was not in vain:

2:2. But having suffered many things before and been shamefully
treated, (as you know) at Philippi, we had confidence in our God, to
speak unto you the gospel of God in much carefulness.

2:3. For our exhortation was not of error, nor of uncleanness, nor in
deceit.

2:4. But as we were approved by God that the gospel should be committed
to us: even so we speak, not as pleasing men but God, who proveth our
hearts.

2:5. For neither have we used at any time the speech of flattery, as
you know: nor taken an occasion of covetousness (God is witness):

2:6. Nor sought we glory of men, neither of you, nor of others.

2:7. Whereas we might have been burdensome to you, as the apostles of
Christ: but we became little ones in the midst of you, as if a nurse
should cherish her children:

2:8. So desirous of you, we would gladly impart unto you not only the
gospel of God but also our own souls: because you were become most dear
unto us.

2:9. For you remember, brethren, our labour and toil: working night and
day, lest we should be chargeable to any of you, we preached among you
the gospel of God.

2:10. You are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and
without blame we have been to you that have believed:

2:11. As you know in what manner, entreating and comforting you (as a
father doth his children),

2:12. We testified to every one of you that you would walk worthy of
God, who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory.

2:14. For you, brethren, are become followers of the churches of God
which are in Judea, in Christ Jesus: for you also have suffered the
same things from your own countrymen, even as they have from the Jews:

2:15. Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and the prophets, and have
persecuted us, and please not God, and are adversaries to all men;

2:16. Prohibiting us to speak to the Gentiles, that they may be saved,
to fill up their sins always: for the wrath of God is come upon them to
the end.

To fill up their sins. . .That is, to fill up the measure of their sins,
after which God's justice would punish them. For the wrath of God is
come upon them to the end. . .That is, to continue on them to the end.

2:17. But we, brethren, being taken away from you for a short time, in
sight, not in heart, have hastened the more abundantly to see your face
with great desire.

2:18. For we would have come unto you, I Paul indeed, once and again:
but Satan hath hindered us.

2:19. For what is our hope or joy or crown of glory? Are not you, in
the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming?

2:20. For you are our glory and joy.



1 Thessalonians Chapter 3


The apostle's concern and love for the Thessalonians.

3:1. For which cause, forbearing no longer, we thought it good to
remain at Athens alone.

3:2. And we sent Timothy, our brother and the minister of God in the
gospel of Christ, to confirm you and exhort you concerning your faith:

3:3. That no man should be moved in these tribulations: for yourselves
know that we are appointed thereunto.

3:4. For even when we were with you, we foretold you that we should
suffer tribulations: as also it is come to pass, and you know.

3:5. For this cause also, I, forbearing no longer, sent to know your
faith: lest perhaps he that tempteth should have tempted you: and our
labour should be made vain.

3:6. But now when Timothy came to us from you and related to us your
faith and charity, and that you have a good remembrance of us always,
desiring to see us as we also to see you:

3:7. Therefore we were comforted, brethren, in you, in all our
necessity and tribulation, by your faith.

3:8. Because now we live, if you stand in the Lord.

3:9. For what thanks can we return to God for you, in all the joy
wherewith we rejoice for you before our God,

3:10. Night and day more abundantly praying that we may see your face
and may accomplish those things that are wanting to your faith?

3:11. Now God himself and our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, direct
our way unto you.

3:12. And may the Lord multiply you and make you abound in charity
towards one another and towards all men: as we do also towards you,

3:13. To confirm your hearts without blame, in holiness, before God and
our Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, with all his
saints. Amen.



 


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