mh_parser/vol_split/46 - 1Corinthians/Chapter 16.xml

<div2 id="iCor.xvii" n="xvii" next="iiCor" prev="iCor.xvi" progress="50.73%" title="Chapter XVI">
<h2 id="iCor.xvii-p0.1">F I R S T   C O R I N T H I A N
S.</h2>
<h3 id="iCor.xvii-p0.2">CHAP. XVI.</h3>
<p class="intro" id="iCor.xvii-p1">In this chapter the apostle, I. Gives directions
about some charitable collection to be made in this church, for the
afflicted and impoverished churches in Judea, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p1.1" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.1-1Cor.16.4" parsed="|1Cor|16|1|16|4" passage="1Co 16:1-4">ver. 1-4</scripRef>. II. He talks of paying them a
visit, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p1.2" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.5-1Cor.16.9" parsed="|1Cor|16|5|16|9" passage="1Co 16:5-9">ver. 5-9</scripRef>. III. He
recommends Timothy to them, and tells them Apollos intended to come
to them, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p1.3" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.10-1Cor.16.12" parsed="|1Cor|16|10|16|12" passage="1Co 16:10-12">ver. 10-12</scripRef>.
IV. He presses them to watchfulness, constancy, charity, and to pay
a due regard to all who helped him and his fellow-labourers in
their work, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p1.4" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.13-1Cor.16.19" parsed="|1Cor|16|13|16|19" passage="1Co 16:13-19">ver. 13-19</scripRef>.
V. After salutations from others, and his own, he closes the
epistle with a solemn admonition to them, and his good wishes for
them, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p1.5" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.20-1Cor.16.24" parsed="|1Cor|16|20|16|24" passage="1Co 16:20-24">ver. 20, to the
end</scripRef>.</p>
<scripCom id="iCor.xvii-p1.6" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16" parsed="|1Cor|16|0|0|0" passage="1Co 16" type="Commentary"/>
<scripCom id="iCor.xvii-p1.7" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.1-1Cor.16.4" parsed="|1Cor|16|1|16|4" passage="1Co 16:1-4" type="Commentary"/><div class="Commentary" id="Bible:1Cor.16.1-1Cor.16.4">
<h4 id="iCor.xvii-p1.8">Contributions for the Poor. (<span class="smallcaps" id="iCor.xvii-p1.9">a.
d.</span> 57.)</h4>
<p class="passage" id="iCor.xvii-p2">1 Now concerning the collection for the saints,
as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do ye.
  2 Upon the first <i>day</i> of the week let every one of you
lay by him in store, as <i>God</i> hath prospered him, that there
be no gatherings when I come.   3 And when I come, whomsoever
ye shall approve by <i>your</i> letters, them will I send to bring
your liberality unto Jerusalem.   4 And if it be meet that I
go also, they shall go with me.</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p3">In this chapter Paul closes this long
epistle with some particular matters of less moment; but, as all
was written by divine inspiration, it is all profitable for our
instruction. He begins with directing them about a charitable
collection on a particular occasion, the distresses and poverty of
Christians in Judea, which at this time were extraordinary, partly
through the general calamities of that nation and partly through
the particular sufferings to which they were exposed. Now
concerning this observe,</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p4">I. How he introduces his direction. It was
not a peculiar service which he required of them; he had given
similar <i>orders to the churches of Galatia,</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p4.1" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.1" parsed="|1Cor|16|1|0|0" passage="1Co 16:1"><i>v.</i> 1</scripRef>. He desired them only to
conform to the same rules which he had given to other churches on a
similar occasion. <i>He did not desire that others should be eased
and they burdened,</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p4.2" osisRef="Bible:2Cor.8.13" parsed="|2Cor|8|13|0|0" passage="2Co 8:13">2 Cor. viii.
13</scripRef>. He also prudently mentions these orders of his to
the churches of Galatia, to excite emulation, and stir them up to
be liberal, according to their circumstances, and the occasion.
Those who exceeded most churches in spiritual gifts, and, as it is
probable, in worldly wealth (see the argument), surely would not
suffer themselves to come behind any in their bounty to their
afflicted brethren. Note, The good examples of other Christians and
churches should excite in us a holy emulation. It is becoming a
Christian not to bear to be outdone by a fellow-christian in any
thing virtuous and praise-worthy, provided this consideration only
makes him exert himself, not envy others; and the more advantages
we have above others the more should we endeavour to exceed them.
The church of Corinth should not be outdone in this service of love
by the churches of Galatia, which do not appear to have been
enriched with equal spiritual gifts nor outward ability.</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p5">II. The direction itself, concerning which
observe,</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p6">1. The manner in which the collection was
to be made: <i>Every one was to lay by in store</i> (<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p6.1" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.2" parsed="|1Cor|16|2|0|0" passage="1Co 16:2"><i>v.</i> 2</scripRef>), have a treasury, or
fund, with himself, for this purpose. The meaning is that he should
lay by as he could spare from time to time, and by this means make
up a sum for this charitable purpose. Note, It is a good thing to
lay up in store for good uses. Those who are rich in this world
should be rich in good works, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p6.2" osisRef="Bible:1Tim.6.17-1Tim.6.18" parsed="|1Tim|6|17|6|18" passage="1Ti 6:17,18">1
Tim. vi. 17, 18</scripRef>. The best way to be so is to appropriate
of their income, and have a treasury for this purpose, a stock for
the poor as well as for themselves. By this means they will be
ready to every good work as the opportunity offers; and many who
labour with their own hands for a livelihood should so work that
they may have to give to him that needeth, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p6.3" osisRef="Bible:Eph.4.28" parsed="|Eph|4|28|0|0" passage="Eph 4:28">Eph. iv. 28</scripRef>. Indeed their treasury for good
works can never be very large (though, according to circumstances,
it may considerably vary); but the best way in the world for them
to get a treasury for this purpose is to lay by from time to time,
as they can afford. Some of the Greek fathers rightly observe here
that this advice was given for the sake of the poorer among them.
They were to lay by from week to week, and not bring in to the
common treasury, that by this means their contributions might be
easy to themselves, and yet grow into a fund for the relief of
their brethren. "Every little," as the proverb says, "would make a
mickle." Indeed all our charity and benevolence should be free and
cheerful, and for that reason should be made as easy to ourselves
as may be. And what more likely way to make us easy in this matter
than thus to lay by? We may cheerfully give when we know that we
can spare, and that we have been laying by in store that we
may.</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p7">2. Here is the measure in which they are to
lay by: <i>As God hath prospered them;</i> <b><i>ti an
euodotai,</i></b> as he has been prospered, namely, by divine
Providence, as God has been pleased to bless and succeed his
labours and business. Note, All our business and labour are that to
us which God is pleased to make them. It is not the diligent hand
that will make rich by itself, without the divine blessing,
<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p7.1" osisRef="Bible:Prov.10.4 Bible:Prov.10.22" parsed="|Prov|10|4|0|0;|Prov|10|22|0|0" passage="Pr 10:4,22">Prov. x. 4, 22</scripRef>. Our
prosperity and success are from God and not from ourselves; and he
is to be owned in all and honoured with all. It is his bounty and
blessing to which we owe all we have; and whatever we have is to be
used, and employed, and improved, for him. His right to ourselves
and all that is ours is to be owned and yielded to him. And what
argument more proper to excite us to charity to the people and
children of God than to consider all we have as his gift, as coming
from him? Note, When God blesses and prospers us, we should be
ready to relieve and comfort his needy servants; when his bounty
flows forth upon us, we should not confine it to ourselves, but let
it stream out to others. The good we receive from him should stir
us up to do good to others, to resemble him in our beneficence; and
therefore the more good we receive from God the more we should do
good to others. They were to lay by as God had blessed them, in
that proportion. The more they had, through God's blessing, gained
by their business or labour, their traffic or work, the more they
were to lay by. Note, God expects that our beneficence to others
should hold some proportion to his bounty to us. All we have is
from God; the more he gives (circumstances being considered), the
more he enables us to give, and the more he expects we should give,
that we should give more than others who are less able, that we
should give more than ourselves when we were less able. And, on the
other hand, from him to whom God gives less he expects less. He is
no tyrant nor cruel taskmaster, to exact brick without straw, or
expect men shall do more good than he gives ability. Note, <i>Where
there is a willing mind he accepts according to what a man hath,
and not according to what he hath not</i> (<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p7.2" osisRef="Bible:2Cor.8.12" parsed="|2Cor|8|12|0|0" passage="2Co 8:12">2 Cor. viii. 12</scripRef>); but as he prospers and
blesses us, and puts us in a capacity to do good, he expects we
should. The greater ability he gives, the more enlarged should our
hearts be, and the more open our hands; but, where the ability is
less, the hands cannot be as open, however willing the mind and
however large the heart; nor does God expect it.</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p8">3. Here is the time when this is to be
done: <i>The first day of the week,</i> <b><i>kata mian
sabbaton</i></b> (<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p8.1" osisRef="Bible:Luke.24.1" parsed="|Luke|24|1|0|0" passage="Lu 24:1">Luke xxiv.
1</scripRef>), the Lord's day, the Christian holiday, when public
assemblies were held and public worship was celebrated, and the
Christian institutions and mysteries (as the ancients called them)
were attended upon; then let every one lay by him. It is a day of
holy rest; and the more vacation the mind has from worldly cares
and toils the more disposition has it to show mercy: and the other
duties of the day should stir us up to the performance of this;
works of charity should always accompany works of piety. True piety
towards God will beget kind and friendly dispositions towards men.
<i>This commandment have we from him that he who loveth God love
his brother also,</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p8.2" osisRef="Bible:1John.4.21" parsed="|1John|4|21|0|0" passage="1Jo 4:21">1 John iv.
21</scripRef>. Works of mercy are the genuine fruits of true love
to God, and therefore are a proper service on his own day. Note,
God's day is a proper season on which to lay up for charitable
uses, or lay out in them, according as he has prospered us; it is
paying tribute for the blessings of the past week, and it is a
proper way to procure his blessing on the work of our hands for the
next.</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p9">4. We have here the disposal of the
collections thus made: the apostle would have every thing ready
against he came, and therefore gave direction as before: <i>That
there be no gatherings when I come,</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p9.1" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.2" parsed="|1Cor|16|2|0|0" passage="1Co 16:2"><i>v.</i> 2</scripRef>. But, when he came, as to the
disposal of it, he would leave it much to themselves. The charity
was theirs, and it was fit they should dispose of it in their own
way, so it answered its end, and was applied to the right use. Paul
no more pretended to lord it over the purses of his hearers than
over their faith; he would not meddle with their contributions
without their consent. (1.) He tells them that they should give
letters of credence, and send messengers of their own with their
liberality, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p9.2" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.3" parsed="|1Cor|16|3|0|0" passage="1Co 16:3"><i>v.</i> 3</scripRef>.
This would be a proper testimony of their respect and brotherly
love to their distressed brethren, to send their gift by members of
their own body, trusty and tenderhearted, who would have compassion
on their suffering brethren, and a Christian concern for them, and
not defraud them. It would argue that they were very hearty in this
service, when they should send some of their own body on so long
and hazardous a journey or voyage, to convey their liberality.
Note, We should not only charitably relieve our poor
fellow-christians but do it in such a way as will best signify our
compassion to them and care of them. (2.) He offers to go with
their messengers, if they think proper, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p9.3" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.4" parsed="|1Cor|16|4|0|0" passage="1Co 16:4"><i>v.</i> 4</scripRef>. His business, as an apostle, was
not to serve tables, but to give himself to the word and prayer;
yet he was never wanting to set on foot, or help forward, a work of
charity, when an opportunity offered. He would go to Jerusalem, to
carry the contributions of the church at Corinth to their suffering
brethren, rather than they should go without them, or the charity
of the Corinthians fail of a due effect. It was no hindrance to his
preaching work, but a great furtherance to the success of it, to
show such a tender and benign disposition of mind. Note, Ministers
are doing their proper business when they are promoting or helping
in works of charity. Paul stirs up the Corinthians to gather for
the relief of the churches in Judea, and he is ready to go with
their messengers, to convey what is gathered; and he is still in
the way of his duty, in the business of his office.</p>
</div><scripCom id="iCor.xvii-p9.4" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.5-1Cor.16.9" parsed="|1Cor|16|5|16|9" passage="1Co 16:5-9" type="Commentary"/><div class="Commentary" id="Bible:1Cor.16.5-1Cor.16.9">
<h4 id="iCor.xvii-p9.5">Paul Promises to Visit
Corinth. (<span class="smallcaps" id="iCor.xvii-p9.6">a.
d.</span> 57.)</h4>
<p class="passage" id="iCor.xvii-p10">5 Now I will come unto you, when I shall pass
through Macedonia: for I do pass through Macedonia.   6 And it
may be that I will abide, yea, and winter with you, that ye may
bring me on my journey whithersoever I go.   7 For I will not
see you now by the way; but I trust to tarry a while with you, if
the Lord permit.   8 But I will tarry at Ephesus until
Pentecost.   9 For a great door and effectual is opened unto
me, and <i>there are</i> many adversaries.</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p11">In this passage the apostle notifies and
explains his purpose of visiting them, concerning which, observe,
1. His purpose: he intended to pass out of Asia, where he now was
(<i>vide</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p11.1" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.8 Bible:1Cor.16.19" parsed="|1Cor|16|8|0|0;|1Cor|16|19|0|0" passage="1Co 16:8,19"><i>v.</i> 8,
19</scripRef>) and to go through Macedonia into Achaia, where
Corinth was, and to stay some time with them, and perhaps the
winter, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p11.2" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.5-1Cor.16.6" parsed="|1Cor|16|5|16|6" passage="1Co 16:5,6"><i>v.</i> 5, 6</scripRef>.
He had long laboured in this church, and done much good among them,
and had his heart set upon doing much more (if God saw fit), and
therefore he had it in his thoughts to see them, and stay with
them. Note, The heart of a truly Christian minister must be much
towards that people among whom he has long laboured, and with
remarkable success. No wonder that Paul was willing to see Corinth
and stay with them as long as the other duties of his office would
permit. Though some among this people despised him, and made a
faction against him, doubtless there were many who loved him
tenderly, and paid him all the respect due to an apostle and their
spiritual father. And is it any wonder that he should be willing to
visit them, and stay with them? And as to the rest, who now
manifested great disrespect, he might hope to reduce them to a
better temper, and thereby rectify what was out of order in the
church, by staying among them for some time. It is plain that he
hoped for some good effect, because he says he intended to stay,
<i>that they might bring him on his journey whithersoever he
went</i> (<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p11.3" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.6" parsed="|1Cor|16|6|0|0" passage="1Co 16:6"><i>v.</i> 6</scripRef>); not
that they might accompany him a little way on the road, but
expedite and furnish him for his journey, help and encourage him to
it, and provide him for it. He is to be understood of being brought
forward in his journey after a godly sort (as it is expressed,
<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p11.4" osisRef="Bible:3John.1.6" parsed="|3John|1|6|0|0" passage="3Jo 1:6">3 John 6</scripRef>), so that nothing
might be wanting to him, as he himself speaks, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p11.5" osisRef="Bible:Titus.3.13" parsed="|Titus|3|13|0|0" passage="Tit 3:13">Tit. iii. 13</scripRef>. His stay among them, he hoped,
would cure their factious humour, and reconcile them to himself and
their duty. Note, It was a just reason for an apostle to make his
abode in a place that he had a prospect of doing good. 2. His
excuse for not seeing them now, because it would be <i>only by the
way</i> (<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p11.6" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.7" parsed="|1Cor|16|7|0|0" passage="1Co 16:7"><i>v.</i> 7</scripRef>),
<b><i>en parodo</i></b>—<i>in transitu</i>—<i>en passant: it
would only be a transient visit.</i> He would not see them because
he could not stay with them. Such a visit would give neither him
nor them any satisfaction or advantage; it would rather raise the
appetite than regale it, rather heighten their desires of being
together than satisfy them. He loved them so much that he longed
for an opportunity to stay with them, take up his abode among them
for some length of time. This would be more pleasing to himself,
and more serviceable to them, than a cursory visit in his way; and
therefore he would not see them now, but another time, when he
could tarry longer. 3. We have the limitation of this purpose: <i>I
trust to tarry awhile with you, if the Lord permit,</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p11.7" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.7" parsed="|1Cor|16|7|0|0" passage="1Co 16:7"><i>v.</i> 7</scripRef>. Though the apostles
wrote under inspiration, they did not know thereby how God would
dispose of them. Paul had a purpose of coming to Corinth, and
staying there, and hoped to do good thereby. This was not a purpose
proceeding from any extraordinary motion or impulse of the Spirit
of God; it was not the effect of inspiration; for had it been such
he could not have spoken of it in this manner. A purpose formed
thus in him must have been the purpose of God, signified to him by
his Spirit; and could he say he would come to Corinth upon this
view only, if God permit, that is, that he would execute God's own
purpose concerning himself, with God's permission? It is to be
understood then of a common purpose, formed in his own spirit. And
concerning all our purposes it is fit we should say, "We will
execute them if the Lord permit." Note, All our purposes must be
made with submission to the divine providence. We should say, <i>If
the Lord will, we shall live, and do this and that,</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p11.8" osisRef="Bible:Jas.4.15" parsed="|Jas|4|15|0|0" passage="Jam 4:15">James iv. 15</scripRef>. It is not in us to
effect our own designs, without the divine leave. It is by God's
power and permission, and under his direction, that we must do
every thing. Heathens have concurred in acknowledging this concern
of Providence in all our actions and concerns; surely we should
readily own it, and frequently and seriously attend to it. 4. We
have his purpose expressed of staying at Ephesus for the present.
He says he would stay there till pentecost, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p11.9" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.8" parsed="|1Cor|16|8|0|0" passage="1Co 16:8"><i>v.</i> 8</scripRef>. It is very probable that at the
time of writing this epistle he was in Ephesus, from this passage,
compared with <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p11.10" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.19" parsed="|1Cor|16|19|0|0" passage="1Co 16:19"><i>v.</i>
19</scripRef>, where he says, <i>The churches of Asia salute
you.</i> A proper salutation from Ephesus, but hardly so proper had
he been at Philippi, as the subscription to this epistle in our
common copies has it. "<i>The churches of Macedonia salute you</i>"
had been much more properly inserted in the close of a letter from
Philippi, than the other. But, 5. We have the reason given for his
staying at Ephesus for the present: <i>Because a great door, and
effectual, was opened to him, and there were many adversaries,</i>
<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p11.11" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.9" parsed="|1Cor|16|9|0|0" passage="1Co 16:9"><i>v.</i> 9</scripRef>. A great door
and effectual was opened to him; many were prepared to receive the
gospel at Ephesus, and God gave him great success among them; he
had brought over many to Christ, and he had great hope of bringing
over many more. For this reason he determined to stay awhile at
Ephesus. Note, Success, and a fair prospect of more, was a just
reason to determine an apostle to stay and labour in a particular
place. And there were many adversaries, because a great door, and
an effectual, was opened. Note, Great success in the work of the
gospel commonly creates many enemies. The devil opposes those most,
and makes them most trouble, who most heartily and successfully set
themselves to destroy his kingdom. There were many adversaries; and
therefore the apostle determined to stay. Some think he alludes in
this passage to the custom of the Roman Circus, and the doors of
it, at which the charioteers were to enter, as their antagonists
did at the opposite doors. True courage is whetted by opposition;
and it is no wonder that the Christian courage of the apostle
should be animated by the zeal of his adversaries. They were bent
to ruin him, and prevent the effect of his ministry at Ephesus; and
should he at this time desert his station, and disgrace his
character and doctrine? No, the opposition of adversaries only
animated his zeal. He was in nothing daunted by his adversaries;
but the more they raged and opposed the more he exerted himself.
Should such a man as he flee? Note, Adversaries and opposition do
not break the spirits of faithful and successful ministers, but
only enkindle their zeal, and inspire them with fresh courage.
Indeed, to labour in vain is heartless and discouraging. This damps
the spirits, and breaks the heart. But success will give life and
vigour to a minister, though enemies rage, and blaspheme, and
persecute. It is not the opposition of enemies, but the hardness
and obstinacy of his hearers, and the backslidings and revolt of
professors, that damp a faithful minister, and break his heart.</p>
</div><scripCom id="iCor.xvii-p11.12" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.10-1Cor.16.12" parsed="|1Cor|16|10|16|12" passage="1Co 16:10-12" type="Commentary"/><div class="Commentary" id="Bible:1Cor.16.10-1Cor.16.12">
<h4 id="iCor.xvii-p11.13">The Apostle Recommends Timothy; General
Directions. (<span class="smallcaps" id="iCor.xvii-p11.14">a.
d.</span> 57.)</h4>
<p class="passage" id="iCor.xvii-p12">10 Now if Timotheus come, see that he may be
with you without fear: for he worketh the work of the Lord, as I
also <i>do.</i>   11 Let no man therefore despise him: but
conduct him forth in peace, that he may come unto me: for I look
for him with the brethren.   12 As touching <i>our</i> brother
Apollos, I greatly desired him to come unto you with the brethren:
but his will was not at all to come at this time; but he will come
when he shall have convenient time.</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p13">In this passage,</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p14">I. He recommends Timothy to them, in
several particulars. As, 1. He bids them take care that he should
<i>be among them without feat,</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p14.1" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.10" parsed="|1Cor|16|10|0|0" passage="1Co 16:10"><i>v.</i> 10</scripRef>. Timothy was sent by the
apostle to correct the abuses which had crept in among them; and
not only to direct, but to blame, and censure, and reprove, those
who were culpable. They were all in factions, and no doubt the
mutual strife and hatred ran very high among them. There were some
very rich, as it is probable; and many very proud, upon account
both of their outward wealth and spiritual gifts. Proud spirits
cannot easily bear reproof. It was reasonable therefore to think
young Timothy might be roughly used; hence the apostle warns them
against using him ill. Not but that he was prepared for the worst;
but, whatever his firmness and prudence might be, it was their duty
to behave themselves well towards him, and not discourage and
dishearten him in his Lord's work. They should not fly out into
resentment at his reproof. Note, Christians should bear faithful
reproofs from their ministers, and not terrify and discourage them
from doing their duty. 2. He warns them against despising him,
<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p14.2" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.11" parsed="|1Cor|16|11|0|0" passage="1Co 16:11"><i>v.</i> 11</scripRef>. He was but a
young man, and alone, as Ecumenius observes. He had no one to back
him, and his own youthful face and years commanded but little
reverence; and therefore the great pretenders to wisdom among them
might be apt to entertain contemptuous thoughts of him. "Now," says
the apostle, "guard against this." Not that he distrusted Timothy;
he knew that Timothy would do nothing to bring contempt on his
character, nothing to make his youth despicable. But pride was a
reigning sin among the Corinthians, and such a caution was but too
necessary. Note, Christians should be very careful not to pour
contempt on any, but especially on ministers, the faithful
ministers of Christ. These, whether young or old, are to be had in
high esteem for their works sake. 3. He tells them they should give
him all due encouragement, use him well while he was with them;
and, as an evidence of this, they should send him away in
friendship, and well prepared for his journey back again to Paul.
This, as I have before observed, is the meaning of bringing him on
his journey in peace, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p14.3" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.11" parsed="|1Cor|16|11|0|0" passage="1Co 16:11"><i>v.</i>
11</scripRef>. Note, Faithful ministers are not only to be well
received by a people among whom they may for a season minister, but
are to be sent away with due respect.</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p15">II. He assigns the reasons why they should
behave thus towards Timothy. 1. Because he was employed in the same
work as Paul, and acted in it by the same authority, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p15.1" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.10" parsed="|1Cor|16|10|0|0" passage="1Co 16:10"><i>v.</i> 10</scripRef>. He did not come on
Paul's errand among them, nor to do his work, but the work of the
Lord. Though he was not an apostle, he was assistant to one, and
was sent upon this very business by a divine commission. And
therefore to vex his spirit would be to grieve the Holy Spirit; to
despise him would be to despise him that sent him, not Paul, but
Paul's Lord and theirs. Note, Those who work the work of the Lord
should be neither terrified nor despised, but treated with all
tenderness and respect. Such are all the faithful ministers of the
word, though not all in the same rank and degree. Pastors and
teachers, as well as apostles and evangelists, while they are doing
their duty, are to be treated with honour and respect. 2. Another
reason is implied; as they were to esteem him for his work's sake,
so also for Paul's sake, who had sent him to Corinth; not of his
own errand indeed, but to work the work of the Lord: <i>Conduct him
forth in peace, that he may come to me, for I look for him with the
brethren</i> (<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p15.2" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.11" parsed="|1Cor|16|11|0|0" passage="1Co 16:11"><i>v.</i>
11</scripRef>); or <i>I with the brethren look for him</i> (the
original will bear either), <b><i>ekdechomai gar auton meta ton
adelphon</i></b>—"I am expecting his return, and his report
concerning you; and shall judge by your conduct towards him what
your regard and respect for me will be. Look to it that you send
him back with no evil report." Paul might expect from the
Corinthians, that a messenger from him, upon such an errand, should
be regarded, and well treated. His services and success among them,
his authority with them as an apostle, would challenge this at
their hands. They would hardly dare to send back Timothy with a
report that would grieve or provoke the apostle. "I and the
brethren expect his return, wait for the report he is to make; and
therefore do not use him ill, but respect him, regard his message,
and let him return in peace."</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p16">III. He informs them of Apollos's purpose
to see them. 1. He himself had greatly desired him to come to them,
<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p16.1" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.12" parsed="|1Cor|16|12|0|0" passage="1Co 16:12"><i>v.</i> 12</scripRef>. Though one
party among them had declared for Apollos against Paul (if that
passage is to be understood literally, <i>vide</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p16.2" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.4.6" parsed="|1Cor|4|6|0|0" passage="1Co 4:6"><i>ch.</i> iv. 6</scripRef>), yet Paul did not
hinder Apollos from going to Corinth in his own absence, nay, he
pressed him to go thither. He had no suspicions of Apollos, as if
he would lessen Paul's interest and respect among them, to the
advancement of his own. Note, Faithful ministers are not apt to
entertain jealousies of each other, nor suspect of such selfish
designs. True charity and brotherly love think no evil. And where
should these reign, if not in the breasts of the ministers of
Christ? 2. Apollos could not be prevailed on for the present to
come, but would at a more convenient season. Perhaps their feuds
and factions might render the present season improper. He would not
go to be set at the head of a party and countenance the dividing
and contentious humour. When this had subsided, through Paul's
epistle to them and Timothy's ministry among them, he might
conclude a visit would be more proper. Apostles did not vie with
each other, but consulted each other's comfort and usefulness. Paul
intimates his great regard to the church of Corinth, when they had
used him ill, by entreating Apollos to go to them; and Apollos
shows his respect to Paul, and his concern to keep up his character
and authority, by declining the journey till the Corinthians were
in better temper. Note, It is very becoming the ministers of the
gospel to have and manifest a concern for each other's reputation
and usefulness.</p>
</div><scripCom id="iCor.xvii-p16.3" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.13-1Cor.16.18" parsed="|1Cor|16|13|16|18" passage="1Co 16:13-18" type="Commentary"/><div class="Commentary" id="Bible:1Cor.16.13-1Cor.16.18">
<h4 id="iCor.xvii-p16.4">Particular Directions. (<span class="smallcaps" id="iCor.xvii-p16.5">a.
d.</span> 57.)</h4>
<p class="passage" id="iCor.xvii-p17">13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you
like men, be strong.   14 Let all your things be done with
charity.   15 I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of
Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and <i>that</i>
they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,)
  16 That ye submit yourselves unto such, and to every one
that helpeth with <i>us,</i> and laboureth.   17 I am glad of
the coming of Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus: for that which
was lacking on your part they have supplied.   18 For they
have refreshed my spirit and yours: therefore acknowledge ye them
that are such.</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p18">In this passage the apostle gives,</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p19">I. Some general advices; as, 1. That they
should watch (<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p19.1" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.13" parsed="|1Cor|16|13|0|0" passage="1Co 16:13"><i>v.</i>
13</scripRef>), be wakeful and upon their guard. A Christian is
always in danger, and therefore should ever be on the watch; but
the danger is greater at some times and under some circumstances.
The Corinthians were in manifest danger upon many accounts: their
feuds ran high, the irregularities among them were very great,
there were deceivers got among them, who endeavoured to corrupt
their faith in the most important articles, those without which the
practice of virtue and piety could never subsist. And surely in
such dangerous circumstances it was their concern to watch. Note,
If a Christian would be secure, he must be on his guard; and the
more his danger the greater vigilance is needful for his security.
2. He advises them to <i>stand fast in the faith,</i> to keep their
ground, adhere to the revelation of God, and not give it up for the
wisdom of the world, nor suffer it to be corrupted by it—stand for
the faith of the gospel, and maintain it even to death; and stand
in it, so as to abide in the profession of it, and feel and yield
to its influence. Note, A Christian should be fixed in the faith of
the gospel, and never desert nor renounce it. It is by this faith
alone that he will be able to keep his ground in an hour of
temptation; it is by faith that we stand (<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p19.2" osisRef="Bible:2Cor.1.24" parsed="|2Cor|1|24|0|0" passage="2Co 1:24">2 Cor. i. 24</scripRef>); it is by this that we must
overcome the world (<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p19.3" osisRef="Bible:1John.5.4" parsed="|1John|5|4|0|0" passage="1Jo 5:4">1 John v.
4</scripRef>), both when it fawns and when it frowns, when it
tempts and when it terrifies. We must stand therefore in the faith
of the gospel, if we would maintain our integrity. 3. He advises
them to act like men, and be strong: "Act the manly, firm, and
resolved part: behave strenuously, in opposition to the bad men who
would divide and corrupt you, those who would split you into
factions or seduce you from the faith: be not terrified nor
inveigled by them; but show yourselves men in Christ, by your
steadiness, by your sound judgment and firm resolution." Note,
Christians should be manly and firm in all their contests with
their enemies, in defending their faith, and maintaining their
integrity. They should, in an especial manner, be so in those
points of faith that lie at the foundation of sound and practical
religion, such as were attacked among the Corinthians: these must
be maintained with solid judgment and strong resolution. 4. He
advises them to do every thing in charity, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p19.4" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.14" parsed="|1Cor|16|14|0|0" passage="1Co 16:14"><i>v.</i> 14</scripRef>. Our zeal and constancy must be
consistent with charity. When the apostle would have us play the
man for our faith or religion, he puts in a caution against playing
the devil for it. We may defend our faith, but we must, at the same
time, maintain our innocence, and not devour and destroy, and think
with ourselves that the wrath of man will work the righteousness of
God, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p19.5" osisRef="Bible:Jas.1.24" parsed="|Jas|1|24|0|0" passage="Jam 1:24">James i. 24</scripRef>. Note,
Christians should be careful that charity not only reign in their
hearts, but shine out in their lives, nay, in their most manly
defences of the faith of the gospel. There is a great difference
between constancy and cruelty, between Christian firmness and
feverish wrath and transport. Christianity never appears to so much
advantage as when the charity of Christians is most conspicuous
when they can bear with their mistaken brethren, and oppose the
open enemies of their holy faith in love, when every thing is done
in charity, when they behave towards one another, and towards all
men, with a spirit of meekness and good will.</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p20">II. Some particular directions how they
should behave towards some that had been eminently serviceable to
the cause of Christ among them.</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p21">1. He gives us their character (1.) The
household of Stephanas is mentioned by him, and their character is,
that they were the first-fruits of Achaia, the first converts to
Christianity in that region of Greece in which Corinth was. Note,
It is an honourable character to any man to be early a Christian,
betimes in Christ. But they had moreover addicted themselves to the
ministry of the saints, to serve the saints. They have <i>disposed
and devoted themselves</i>—<b><i>etaxan heautous,</i></b> to serve
the saints, to do service to the saints. It is not meant of the
ministry of the word properly, but of serving them in other
respects, supplying their wants, helping and assisting them upon
all occasions, both in their temporal and spiritual concerns. The
family of Stephanas seems to have been a family of rank and
importance in those parts, and yet they willingly offered
themselves to this service. Note, It is an honour to persons of the
highest rank to devote themselves to the service of the saints. I
do not mean to change ranks, and become proper servants to the
inferiors, but freely and voluntarily to help them, and do good to
them in all their concerns. (2.) He mentions Stephanas, and
Fortunatus, and Achaicus, as coming to him from the church of
Corinth. The account he gives of them is that they supplied the
deficiencies of the church towards him, and by so doing
<i>refreshed his spirit and theirs,</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p21.1" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.17-1Cor.16.18" parsed="|1Cor|16|17|16|18" passage="1Co 16:17,18"><i>v.</i> 17, 18</scripRef>. They gave him a more
perfect account of the state of the church by word of mouth than he
could acquire by their letter, and by that means much quieted his
mind, and upon their return from him would quiet the minds of the
Corinthians. Report had made their cause much worse than it was in
fact, and their letters had not explained it sufficiently to give
the apostle satisfaction; but he had been made more easy by
converse with them. It was a very good office they did, by truly
stating facts, and removing the ill opinion Paul had received by
common fame. They came to him with a truly Christian intention, to
set the apostle right, and give him as favourable sentiments of the
church as they could, as peace-makers. Note, It is a great
refreshment to the spirit of a faithful minister to hear better of
a people by wise and good men of their own body than by common
report, to find himself misinformed concerning them, that matters
are not so bad as they had been represented. It is a grief to him
to hear ill of those he loves; it gladdens his heart to hear the
report thereof is false. And the greater value he has for those who
give him this information, and the more he can depend upon their
veracity, the greater is his joy.</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p22">2. Upon this account of the men, he directs
how they should behave towards them; and, (1.) He would have them
acknowledged (<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p22.1" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.11" parsed="|1Cor|16|11|0|0" passage="1Co 16:11"><i>v.</i>
11</scripRef>), that is, owned and respected. They deserve it for
their good offices. Those who serve the saints, those who consult
the honour and good esteem of the churches, and are concerned to
wipe off reproaches from them, and take off from the ill opinion
fame had propagated, are to be valued, and esteemed, and loved.
Those who discover so good a spirit cannot easily be over-valued.
(2.) He advises that they should <i>submit themselves to such, and
to all who helped with the apostles, and laboured,</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p22.2" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.16" parsed="|1Cor|16|16|0|0" passage="1Co 16:16"><i>v.</i> 16</scripRef>. This is not to be
understood of subjection to proper superiors, but of a voluntary
acknowledgment of their worth. They were persons to whom they owed
peculiar respect, and whom they should have in veneration. Note, It
is a venerable character which those bear who serve the saints and
labour hard to help the success of the gospel, who countenance and
encourage the faithful ministers of Christ, and endeavour to
promote their usefulness. Such should be had in honourable
esteem.</p>
</div><scripCom id="iCor.xvii-p22.3" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.19-1Cor.16.24" parsed="|1Cor|16|19|16|24" passage="1Co 16:19-24" type="Commentary"/><div class="Commentary" id="Bible:1Cor.16.19-1Cor.16.24">
<h4 id="iCor.xvii-p22.4">Commendations and
Salutations. (<span class="smallcaps" id="iCor.xvii-p22.5">a.
d.</span> 57.)</h4>
<p class="passage" id="iCor.xvii-p23">19 The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and
Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in
their house.   20 All the brethren greet you. Greet ye one
another with an holy kiss.   21 The salutation of <i>me</i>
Paul with mine own hand.   22 If any man love not the Lord
Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maranatha.   23 The grace of
our Lord Jesus Christ <i>be</i> with you.   24 My love
<i>be</i> with you all in Christ Jesus. Amen. &amp;lt;&amp;lt;<i>The
first</i> epistle <i>to the Corinthians was written from Philippi
by Stephanas and Fortunatus and Achaicus and
Timotheus.</i>&amp;gt;&amp;gt;</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p24">The apostle closes his epistle,</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p25">I. With salutations to the church of
Corinth, first from those of Asia, from <i>Priscilla</i> and
<i>Aquila</i> (who seem to have been at this time inhabitants of
Ephesus, <i>vid.</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p25.1" osisRef="Bible:Acts.18.26" parsed="|Acts|18|26|0|0" passage="Ac 18:26">Acts xviii.
26</scripRef>), <i>with the church in their house</i> (<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p25.2" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.19" parsed="|1Cor|16|19|0|0" passage="1Co 16:19"><i>v.</i> 19</scripRef>), and from <i>all the
brethren</i> (<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p25.3" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.20" parsed="|1Cor|16|20|0|0" passage="1Co 16:20"><i>v.</i>
20</scripRef>) at Ephesus, where, it is highly probable at least,
he then was. All these saluted the church at Corinth, by Paul.
Note, Christianity does by no means destroy civility and good
manners. Paul could find room in an epistle treating of very
important matters to send the salutations of friends. Religion
should promote a courteous and obliging temper towards all. Those
misrepresent and reproach it who would take any encouragement from
it to be sour and morose. Some of these <i>salute them much in the
Lord.</i> Note, Christian salutations are not empty compliments;
they carry in them real expressions of good-will, and are attended
with hearty recommendations to the divine grace and blessing. Those
who salute in the Lord wish their brethren all good from the Lord,
and breathe out their good wishes in fervent prayers. We read also
of a church in a private family, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p25.4" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.19" parsed="|1Cor|16|19|0|0" passage="1Co 16:19"><i>v.</i> 19</scripRef>. It is very probable that the
family itself is called <i>the church in their house.</i> Note,
Every Christian family should in some respects be a Christian
church. In some cases (as, for instance, were they cast away on a
foreign shore, where there are no other Christians), they should be
a church themselves, if large enough, and live in the use of all
ordinances; but in common cases they should live under the
direction of Christian rules, and daily offer up Christian worship.
Wherever two or three are gathered together, and Christ is among
them, there is a church. To these salutations he subjoins, 1. An
advice, that <i>they should greet one another with a holy kiss</i>
(<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p25.5" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.20" parsed="|1Cor|16|20|0|0" passage="1Co 16:20"><i>v.</i> 20</scripRef>), or with
sincere good-will, a tacit reproof of their feuds and factions.
When the churches of Asia, and the Christian brethren so remote,
did so heartily salute them in the Lord, and own and love them as
brethren, and expressed so much good-will to them, it would be a
shame for them not to own and love one another as brethren. Note,
The love of the brethren should be a powerful incentive to mutual
love. When the other churches of Christ love us all, we are very
culpable if we do not love one another. 2. He subjoins his own
salutation: <i>The salutation of me Paul with my own hand,</i>
<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p25.6" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.21" parsed="|1Cor|16|21|0|0" passage="1Co 16:21"><i>v.</i> 21</scripRef>. His
<i>amanuensis,</i> it is reasonable to think, wrote the rest of his
epistle from his mouth, but at the close it was fit that himself
should sign it, that they might know it to be genuine; and
therefore it is added (<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p25.7" osisRef="Bible:2Thess.3.17" parsed="|2Thess|3|17|0|0" passage="2Th 3:17">2 Thess. iii.
17</scripRef>), <i>Which is my token in every epistle,</i> the mark
of its being genuine; so he wrote in every epistle which he did not
wholly pen, as he did that to the Galatians, <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p25.8" osisRef="Bible:Gal.6.11" parsed="|Gal|6|11|0|0" passage="Ga 6:11">Gal. vi. 11</scripRef>. Note, Those churches to whom
apostolical letters were sent were duly certified of their being
authentic and divine. Nor would Paul be behind the rest of the
brethren in respect to the Corinthians; and therefore, after he has
given their salutations, he adds his own.</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p26">II. With a very solemn warning to them:
<i>If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema,
Maran-atha,</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p26.1" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.22" parsed="|1Cor|16|22|0|0" passage="1Co 16:22">v. 22</scripRef>. We
sometimes need words of threatening, that we may fear. <i>Blessed
is he,</i> says the wise man, <i>who feareth always.</i> Holy fear
is a very good friend both to holy faith and holy living. An how
much reason have all Christians to fear falling under this doom!
<i>If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema,
Maran-atha.</i> Here observe, 1. The person described, who is
liable to this doom: <i>He that loveth not the Lord Jesus
Christ.</i> A <b><i>meiosis,</i></b> as some think; he who
blasphemes Christ disowns his doctrine, slights and contemns his
institutions, or, through pride of human knowledge and learning,
despises his revelations. It stands here as a warning to the
Corinthians and a rebuke of their criminal behaviour. It is an
admonition to them not to be led away from the simplicity of the
gospel, or those principles of it which were the great motives to
purity of life, by pretenders to science, by the wisdom of the
world, which would call their religion folly, and its most
important doctrines absurd and ridiculous. Those men had a spite at
Christ; and, if the Corinthians give ear to their seducing
speeches, they were in danger of apostatizing from him. Against
this he gives them here a very solemn caution. "Do not give into
such conduct, if you would escape the severest vengeance." Note,
Professed Christians will, by contempt of Christ, and revolt from
him, bring upon themselves the most dreadful destruction. Some
understand the words as they lie, in their plain and obvious
meaning, for such as are without holy and sincere affection for the
Lord Jesus Christ. Many who have his name much in their mouths have
no true love to him in their hearts, will not have him to rule over
them (<scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p26.2" osisRef="Bible:Luke.19.27" parsed="|Luke|19|27|0|0" passage="Lu 19:27">Luke xix. 27</scripRef>), no,
not though they have very towering hopes of being saved by him. And
none love him in truth who do not love his laws and keep his
commandments. Note, There are many Christians in name who do not
love Christ Jesus the Lord in sincerity. But can any thing be more
criminal or provoking? What, not love the most glorious lover in
the world! Him who loved us, and gave himself for us, who shed his
blood for us, to testify his love to us, and that after heinous
wrong and provocation! What had we a power of loving for, if we are
unmoved with such love as this, and without affection to such a
Saviour? But, 2. We have here the doom of the person described:
"<i>Let him be Anathema, Maran-atha,</i> lie under the heaviest and
most dreadful curse. Let him be separated from the people of God,
from the favour of God, and delivered up to his final, irrevocable,
and inexorable vengeance" <i>Maran-atha</i> is a Syriac phrase, and
signifies <i>The Lord cometh.</i> That very Lord whom they do not
love, to whom they are inwardly and really disaffected whatever
outward profession they make, is coming to execute judgment. And to
be exposed to his wrath, to be divided to his left hand, to be
condemned by him, how dreadful! If he will destroy, who can save?
Those who fall under his condemning sentence must perish, and that
for ever. Note, Those who love not the Lord Jesus Christ must
perish without remedy. <i>The wrath of God abides on every one who
believes not on the Son,</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p26.3" osisRef="Bible:John.3.36" parsed="|John|3|36|0|0" passage="Joh 3:36">John iii.
36</scripRef>. And true faith in Christ will evermore be productive
of sincere love to him. Those who love him not cannot be believers
in him.</p>
<p class="indent" id="iCor.xvii-p27">III. With his good wishes for them and
expressions of good-will to them. 1. With his good wishes: <i>The
grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p27.1" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.23" parsed="|1Cor|16|23|0|0" passage="1Co 16:23"><i>v.</i> 23</scripRef>. As much as if he had said,
"Though I warn you against falling under his displeasure, I
heartily wish you an interest in his dearest love and his eternal
favour." The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ comprehends in it all
that is good, for time or eternity. To wish our friends may have
this grace with them is wishing them the utmost good. And this we
should wish all our friends and brethren in Christ. We can wish
them nothing more, and we should wish them nothing less. We should
heartily pray that they may value, and seek, and obtain, and
secure, the grace and good-will of their Lord and Judge. Note, The
most solemn warnings are the result of the tenderest affection and
the greatest good-will. We may tell our brethren and friends with
great plainness and pathos that, if they love not the Lord Jesus
Christ, they must perish, while we heartily wish the grace of
Christ may be with them. Nay, we may give them this warning that
they may prize and lay hold of this grace. Note also, How much true
Christianity enlarges our hearts; it makes us wish those whom we
love the blessings of both worlds; for this is implied in wishing
the grace of Christ to be with them. And therefore it is no wonder
that the apostle should close all, 2. With the declaration of his
love to them in Christ Jesus: <i>My love be with you all, in Christ
Jesus, Amen,</i> <scripRef id="iCor.xvii-p27.2" osisRef="Bible:1Cor.16.24" parsed="|1Cor|16|24|0|0" passage="1Co 16:24"><i>v.</i>
24</scripRef>. He had dealt very plainly with them in this epistle,
and told them of their faults with just severity; but, to show that
he was not transported with passion, he parts with them in love,
makes solemn profession of his love to them, nay, to them all in
Christ Jesus, that is, for Christ's sake. He tells them that his
heart was with them, that he truly loved them; but lest this, after
all, should be deemed flattery and insinuation, he adds that his
affection was the result of his religion, and would be guided by
the rules of it. His heart would be with them, and he would bear
them dear affection as long as their hearts were with Christ, and
they bore true affection to his cause and interest. Note, We should
be cordial lovers of all who are in Christ, and who love him in
sincerity. Not but we should love all men, and wish them well, and
do them what good is in our power; but <i>those</i> must have our
dearest affection who are dear to Christ, and lovers of him. May
our love be with all those who are in Christ Jesus! Amen.</p>
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