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.
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 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.
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.