A Catholike and ecclesiasticall exposition vppon the epistle of S. Iude the apostle collected and gathered out of the workes of the best writers by Augustine Marlorat ... ; translated out of Latin into Englishe ... by I.D. mynister.

AVGVSTINE Marlorat vppon the Epistle of S. Iude. ❧ The Argument .

IVdas ( whom Mathew nameth Lebbeus , Bulling. whose surname was Thaddeus ) is sayde to bee the brother of Iames the sonne of Alphee , & of Symon the Cananite , M. Luth. M. whose mother was Mary Iacoby or Cleophas , sister to Mary the mother of Christ , as we reade , Marke , 6. vers. 3. Caluin . C. But forasmuch as of this epistle also of S. Iude , there hath bene no litle ado among the learned auncient wryters , which haue bene in diuerse opinions touching the same , yet because it is very necessary and profitable to be red , contayning in it nothing at al , that doth either swarue or decline from the purity & simplicity of the Apostolike doctrine : and sith now long sithens this epistle hath bin in price and authority amongest the best and godliest writers , wee doe gladly and willingly recken this for one amonge the rest of the epistles Canonicall . B. As touching the lyfe of this holy man Iude Bulling. ( if Eusebius is to be credited and belieued , cyting and alleaging Hegesyppus for his author ) hee lyued in the Emperoure Domitians tyme fewe yeares after that the Apostles of the Lord were taken away . Who lyuing in a most corrupted time , & foreseeing by the spyrite what would come to passe hereafter , wrote this epistle : which because it is so briefe , & so short as of it selfe needeth noe longe or great argument , the totall some whereof doth agree almost with the 2. chap. of the latter epistle of sainte Peter the Apostle . And for because there were certayne wicked varlets and vngodly persons craftely crepte in amonge the professors of Christes gospell , shrowding them selues vnder the name and tytle of Christianity & christians , who tooke it for a great pleasure to induce those that were yet weake , and not throughly stablyshed and setled in the faith , to a prophane contempt of God : The apostle sainte Iude doth here fyrst declare , that the faithfull ought not to bee troubled or dismayde with such subtile kinde of deuises and inuentions , wherewith the church of Chryste and of God hath alwayes bene assaulted . Imlerus . I And therefore this ought not to seeme straunge . Whereas now longe agoe the faythfull for this cause and for this intente haue bene fore appointed , and predestinated : and it hath ben foretolde by the Apostles that such kinde of men will craftely and vnwares creepe in amonge the christian flocke . Caluin . C. To the ende therefore they should be the more circumspecte , and take diligent & good heede to themselues to beware of such pestilent and crafty creepers , he doth oft exhorte them and B admonish them to continew and perseuere in pure and sincere religion , Bullinge . and to declare and shew forth the verity and truth of the gospell by good workes . Caluin .

C. But to the intent he may make these crafty and false deceauers the more to be hated , Aug. Mar● and also to be abhorred and shunned , A he describeth at large , not only their manners , Caluin . and their corrupted and wicked deuises , C but also hee doth seuerely denounce vnto them the vengeance of God to be at hand , such as theyr impiety and vngodlinesse doth deserue . Bullinger B. But many things for the most parte are taken out of the latter epistle of S. Peter , as wee sayd euen now . Neyther verely ought that to seeme straunge or newes to any man : for wee see euen the latter Prophets to haue red the bookes and sentences of the first : yea , and often tymes to vse them , and to transferre many sentences and wordes of theirs into their owne writing , The things therefore that are here briefly touched , are handled more at large in the epistle of S. Peter .

Caluin . C. Now if wee weigh & consider diligently what Satan goeth aboute to doe in this our age also , sithence the renewing and restoring againe of the gospell , and what sleights and subtile deuises hee doth practize & imagine to ouerthrowe , and cleane to subuert the fayth and feare of God , the admonitions and instructions that were profitable in Iude his time , the same in these our dayes are much more necessary . But all these things we shall the better learne by reading of this epistle .

THE TEXT .

Vers. 1. IVdas the seruant of Iesus Christ 〈◊〉 * * Imlerus . Caluin . Iudas beginneth his epistle afte● the maner of the other Apostles . C. H● calleth himselfe the seruant of Chris● not as 〈◊〉 name is common to all the god● myxed one with another ; but hee calleth hi● selfe so in respect of his Apostleship ; for the● are properly and peculiarly iudged to bee th● seruantes of Christe , to whom he hath inio●ned any publique offyce or function : So th● now wee knowe to what ende the Apostl● are accustomed to set forth them selues wi●● this tytle . Rashly therefore doth he presume , whosoeuer he be , that taketh vpon him the office and authority of teaching , that is not lawfully thereunto called . The callinge therefore of the Apostles is their sufficient testimony , because they intrude not them selues into the offyce of teaching , by their owne priuate motion and iudgement . Neither is this sufficient inough of it selfe to be placed in authority , vnlesse they behaue them selues faythfully therein . Which then verely they shall doe : First , if they declare that God is the author of their function and calling wherein they are placed : Secondly , if they execute the same faythfully according as they are commaunded . But because many doe counterfayte this title , namely , that they are the seruauntes of Chryst , and falsly bragge them selues to bee that , from the which they are farre wyde , wee must alwayes take good heede , and see whether the thinge it selfe be answerable to their profession or not . Aug. Mar. Philipp. 3. vers. 18.19 . A. For that is most true that the Apostle S. Paule wryteth : Many walke , that are the ennemyes of the Crosse of Christ , whose ende is destruction , whose God is their belly , and glory to theyr shame : which minde earthly thinges .

It followeth in the texte . The brother of Iames ] B. Because there were many Iudaes , Bullinger therefore hee addeth this to put a difference betwene him and other that were called after the same name . Caluin . C. Hee addeth to also his name , because it was so famous , and so well knowne of the churches : for although the doctrine and authority of fayth dependeth vpon no mortall man , yet notwithstanding this is a great strengthning and setting forwarde of fayth , when the integrity and vprightnesse of the man , that taketh vpon him the office of a teacher , is wel & sufficiently knowne vnto vs . Moreouer , the authority of Iames is not here set forth vnder a colour , as of some priuate man , but because he was counted one of the cheifest Apostles , Galla. 2. vers. 9. among al the churches .

Thus hast thou both the author of this epistle , and also the subscription . Nowe it followeth to declare to whom hee wrought this epistle . Caluin . To them which are called ] C. By this word ( called ) he signifieth all the faythfull , because the Lord hath seuered them to him selfe . But because this worde ( calling ) is nothing els then the effecte of the eternall election , it is some times taken for election it selfe . Heere in this place it maketh no great matter if thou take it both wayes . For without question , hee commendeth the grace of God wherewith hee vouchedsafe to make his choyce of them , to bee of his flocke and folde . He signifieth also , Aug. Mar. Ihon. 4.19 . that men cannot preuent God , neither can they come vnto him at any time , till he drawe them . A. For hee loued vs first . Esay . 65.1 . And hee is dayly found of them that sought him not : and appeareth vnto them which asked not after him . It followeth . Caluin .

And sanctified in God the father ] C. The sence and meaninge of this is : that they that are called being wicked and vngodly in them selues , Bullinger ●phe . 2.3 . haue their full sanctification in & from God . B. For wee are all by nature the children of wrath , and vyle bondslaues to Satan . But God taking pity vpon vs , sent his sonne into the world , which loued vs , and washed vs from our sinnes in his owne bloude . Caluin . Aug. Mar. C. All they therefore are sanctified , whom God hath regenerated by his spirite , A. and grafted into the bo●● of his sonne Chryste by fayth .

And preserued in Iesus 〈…〉 ●rthermore he addeth that we are kept and preserued in Christe : Caluin . for Satan euery minute & moment of an houre syeth alwayes in wayte ●o snatch vs vp as it were for a Pray , and vt●erly to destroy vs , had not Chryste our Saui●ur protected and defended vs , whom the fa●her hath appoynted to bee our keeper and watchman , for this purpose , that nothing bee lost , that hee hath receaued into his tuition & safe keping . Aug. Mar. ●hon . 6.39 . A. For this is the will of my Father that sent mee , that of all that he hath geuen me , I shall lose nothing , but rayse it vp agayne at the last daye . ●hon . 10.27 . And againe : My sheepe heare my voyce , and I knowe them , and they followe mee , and I geue vnto them , eternall lyfe , and they shall neuer perishe , neyther shall any man plucke them out of my hande . My Father which gaue them mee , is greater then all , and no man is able to take them out of my Fathers hand . Ihon. 17.12 . Also , Those that thou gauest mee , haue I kept , and none of them is lost , but that lost chylde , that the scripture myght bee fulfilled . C. A threefold benefite of God therefore in all the Godly doth Iudas heere declare . Caluin . First , that by theyr callinge , hee hath made them partakers of the gospell . Secondly , that by his spyrite hee hath regenerated them into newnesse of lyfe . And thirdely , that by the power of Christe , hee hath kept them , that they shoulde not fall away from saluation . Aug. Mar. A. To this agreeth that sayinge of S. Peter in his 1. epistle vers. 5. Wee are kept by the power of God through faith vnto saluation , which is prepared for this purpose , ready to bee shewe● in the last time . Bullinger B. In these three members therefore thou hast the whole summe of the gospell , which Paule especially mingleth together in the titles or inscriptions of his epistles .

Mercy bee vnto you , and peace , The te● vers . ● Bullin●●● and charity bee multiplied . ] B. This is an holy wyshe , and a very Apostolike salutation .

Hee desireth three thinges to bee multiplied and increased ( that to is say ) Mercy , Peace , and Charity . Calui● C. This worde ( Mercy ) is as much in effect almost , as Grace , in Paules salutations . If a man will haue a more subtill or fine difference : properly , grace is the effecte of mercy . Because God doth imbrace vs with his loue , for no other cause , but because hee beholdeth our myseries .

B. This mercy the Father of heauen doth increase in vs , Bullin● when hee taketh pitty vppon vs , and forgeueth vs our sinnes , and doth as it were power downe him selfe and all his benefittes vppon vs day by day , most lyberally and bountifully : so that hee doth oftentymes , and euer nowe and then , knitte as it were , and bynde him selfe more strongly and neerely vnto vs by his beneuolence , and fatherly benignity .

This worde ( peace ) doth signifie the tranquillity or quietnesse of the minde or conscience , & the desire or studdy of vnity and concord with all men . Charity ] It may bee vnderstoode as well of God towards men , as of one man towardes another . If it be vnderstoode of God , then the sence is , that he would vouchsafe , to increase the same amonge men , and that the trust and confidence of his heauenly loue may dayly more and more bee confirmed and stablished in our heartes : if of men , it is not amysse neyther , that the same God also , will vouchsafe to kindle and confirme in them mutuall loue and charity one towardes another , I. that they may bee of one minde and of one accorde , Ierus . and to continew helpfull and beneficiall one towardes another .

3. Beloued , when I gaue all diligence to write vnto you of the common saluation , it was needefull for mee to wryte vnto you to exhorte you that yee should earnestly contend for the fayth which was once geuen vnto the sainctes . 〈◊〉 texte .

●●llinger Beloued when I gaue all diligence ] B. Here hee sheweth the cause that enforced him to write , indeuouringe to get theyr good will and fauoure , shewinge with ( all as by a preface ) the scope & drift of those things whereof hee mindeth to speake . Mar. L● M. Some doe thinke that a certayne earnest and vehement desire was the cause that inforced Iudas to write , as wee are wonte to say of them that doe euen burne as it were with some earnest affection or other , that they cannot moderate or wythholde themselues , but needes they must doe this or that : So that it was necessity in him after their opinion , that the earnest desire that Iudas had to write would not suffer him to keepe silence . Caluin . C. But if a man examine the matter more narrowly , hee shall see here two distincte members , that whereas otherwise , hee was ready inough , and earnestly bent , yet necessity hath also compelled him to wryte .

Hee signifieth therefore that hee was willing verely , and very desirous to write vnto them , and yet notwithstanding compelled so to doe of necessity : for ( as it followeth in the texte ) being assaulted of the wicked , they were to be instructed , to prepare and addresse themselues to the battell . In this first place therefore Iudas declareth that hee had so great care for their health and saluation , that hee wished to write of his owne accord , and that very earnestly . Then , to the intent to styrre them vp to geue the more heede & attention , hee saith that the matter also it selfe required so to doe , for necessity is a sharpe spurre . Except they had ben forewarned how necessary this exhortation was for them , they would haply haue bene somewhat negligent and slouthfull in the reading of the same . But when hee declared in the beginninge , that hee wrote vppon present necessity , it is all one , as if hee had stricken vp the alarame , to rouse them vp out of their drowsie sleepe , ● . Mar. and carelesse security . A. Paule after the same maner styrreth vp the Philippians to take heede to them selues , and to beware of false Apostles and deceauers . ●ilip . 3. ● . 1.2 . It grieueth mee not ( saith hee ) to write the same things oft to you , for to you it is a sure thinge : Beware of dogges , beware of euill workers , beware of Concision . It followeth . Of the common saluation ] C. Some bookes haue ( yours ) but amysse . ●uin . For hee maketh saluation to bee common as well to other as to him selfe . Whereby it commeth to passe that the credit and estimation of the doctrine of saluation is not a litle furthered , ●ug . Mar. when a man speaketh of his owne vnderstanding & experience . A. For it will bee counted but a foolish bablinge , to reason and dispute of saluation among others , whereof we our selues haue had no taste or feeling at all . A doctor of experience therefore ( if we may so speake ) Iudas professeth himselfe to bee , when hee reckeneth himselfe amonge the godly , to bee partaker of the same fellowship of saluation with them . And truely if there bee but on faith of all the faithfull beleeuers , one gospell , one Lord Iesus Christe , keeper and defendour of the flocke , then must saluation of necessity be a common thinge to them al. For the ende of our Christian faith , is the saluation of our soules . 1. epistle of Peter , 1. vers. 9. 1. Pete● vers. 9 To exhort you that yee should earnestly contend for the fayth ] C. The Greeke word signifieth so much as if he should say , Calu●● Exhorting you . But forasmuch as he noteth the end of his purpose , the words are thus to be resolued : that I might exhort you earnestly to contend , that your fayth may bee forthered & strengthned . By that which words hee signifieth , that in keeping of the faith , wee must labour with all our might , & withstand strongly the contrary assaultes of Satan : For hee admonisheth them to perseuere and continew in the faith , for that many conflicts and battayles are lyke to ensue . Aug. 〈◊〉 A. For the great multitude of deceauers , doe not only goe about to weaken & make feeble by all meanes possible they may , the faith of the godly , but vtterly to subuerte it , and ouerthrowe it . Wherefore , they that are once called to the fayth haue neede not a litle to bee carefull , that they may perseuere and continew therein sounde and perfect to the ende . It followeth . Which was once geuen to the saincts ] This hee addeth , that they may know that fayth is geuen to this ende , & vppon this condition , that they shoulde not faynte at any tyme , or fall away from it . ●●g . Mar. A. Hee calleth the faythfull beleeuers ( Saintes ) after the vsuall manner of the scripture , which are sanctified by the bloude and spirite of Christe .

4 For there are certayne vngodly men craftely crept in , ●e texte . which were before of olde booked or billed to this condemnation , turning the grace of God vnto wantones : and denying God which is th' only Lord , and our Lord Iesus Christ .

For there are certaine vngodly men craftely crept in ] A. Hee rendereth the cause why hee could not forbeare , ●ug . Mar. but needes must write vnto them . ●lerus . I. In this hee doth immitate the other Apostles , who haue written many things of false Apostles , ●ug . Mar. and deceauers . A. To this ende verely that the faythfull should bee carefull and watchfull for their owne saluation , least by any meanes they shoulde bee carryed away from the simplicity of Gods woorde , and from the receaued fayth in Chryst . Calu● C Although Satan be alwayes a mortall enemy to the godly , and ceaseth not euer nowe and then to egge and pricke them forwarde to commit wickednesse : yet notwithstandinge Iudas doth admonyshe them , to whom hee writeth of the present necessity . Nowe specially ( saith hee ) doth Satan in deede enter and set vppon you : arme your selues therefore to resist him . L. Pe●cane . L Now come false teachers & are euen already entred , which will easely seduce you vnawares , if you take not good heede . Aug. 〈◊〉 A Wherfore I would warne you in time that yee continew in the fayth which yee haue heard .

C. Hence we may gather that it is the duety & parte of a good & faythfull pastour diligently and prudently to looke about him , Calui● what the present state and condition of the church doth requyre , and accordingly to imploy his diligence of teaching and instructing . But euery word carrieth with it his substaunce and weight . For this worde , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , doth notifie an indirect or priuy kinde of craftines , wherewith the ministers of Satan deceaue the ignorant that foreseed not things to come . For in the nighte time when men are a sleepe , Satan soweth and scattereth abroade his Darnell & Tares , to corrupt & marre the pure & cleane seede of the Lords word . ●itt . 13. 〈◊〉 . 25. Mat. 13. vers. 25. And withal teacheth , that this is a priuy & an inward mischiefe full of secret hatred & mallice . For here also is the craftines & subtlety of Satan espied to styrre vp those that are of the flocke to be enemies , they that may with more facility deceyue . ●llinger B. Hee noteth therefore the cunninge and crafty deceipt of these Satanicall deceauers , which in no wise will seeme to bee enemies to truth and piety , but vnder a colour & cloake rather of truth and piety , they brag and vaunte of them selues . Of such kinde of men as these bee , S. Peter in his 2. epist. 2. vers. 1. speaketh thus : There were false Prophets also among the people , euen as there shal be false teachers among you , which priuily shall brynge in damnable heresies , euen denying the Lord that hath bought them , and bring vppon them selues swyft damnation . A. Paule also of false Apostles writeth in this sorte . 2. Cor. 11. vers. 13.14.15 . For such false Apostles , are deceiptfull workers , transformed into the Apostles of Christe , and no meruayle , for Satan him selfe is transformed into an angell of lyghte : therefore it is no great thinge , if that his ministers also bee transformed as the ministers of righteousnesse . Also Christe him selfe hath descrybed them in this maner . Matt. 7. vers. 15. Beware of false Prophetes which come to you in sheepes clothinge , but inwardly they are rauening Woulfes , yee shall know them by their fruites .

It followeth . Which were before booked , Caluin or ordayned to this iudgment ] C. He calleth it iudgment or condemnation , because they corrupted the doctrine of piety , which no man can doe without his owne destruction . Furthermore , herehence this metaphor is taken , because the eternall counsayle of God , by the which the faythfull are ordeyned to saluation , is called a booke . But when the faithfull doe heare those false Prophets to be appointed to eternall death , they ought to take the more heede , least they also wrap them selues in the same destruction with them . Howbeit Iudas would therewithall preuent al daunger , least happely the newnesse or straungnes of the thing should trouble or ouerthrow some of them . L. As who woulde say , least this thinge , L. Pelycane . as strange or neuer heard or knowne of before , might trouble your mindes , know yee that it was long since thus decreed by the secret counsaile of God , thus it hath bene foretold , that there shoulde some aryse , which with theyr wicked deedes , should both try & exercyse your piety & godlines , bringing vppon them selues swyfte damnation . Herehence therefore we may learne , that the church is not exercised & tried but by the determinate counsell of God . It followeth . Whych tourne the grace of our God vnto wantonnes ] Now hee declareth manyfestly and clearely , what maner of mischife that is , that they should beware & take heede of : namely this : that these false Apostles & deceauers , abused the grace of God vnto all wantonnes & licentiousnes , thinkinge , that because their sinnes were forgeuen , they might doe what they list . They sinned therefore without all shame , and willingly fell backe againe into the slauery and bondage of sinne , from whence Christ had redeemed them by the shedding of his bloude . C. The grace of God verely appeared to a far other end , Caluin . then to geue men leaue to sinne , as Paule plainely witnesseth , sayinge : The grace of God hath appeared healthfull to all men , teaching vs , that denying vngodlynes , and worldly lustes , ● . to Tit. 2. vers. 11. wee shoulde lyue soberly , and righteously , and godly in this present euyll worlde . Let vs know therefore , that there is nothinge more hurtfull & pernitious then these kinde of men , which of the grace of Christe , doe take an occasion to liue wantonly and licentiously . And because wee teach , that wee are saued by the free mercy of God , the Papists lay this to our charge as a greate faulte . But what doth it preuaile with wordes to confute their shamelessnes , sith euery where & in all places we call earnestly vpon repentance , the feare of God , & newnes of life . They themselues doe not only corrupt & marre that whole world by their euill examples & wicked life , but also take quite out of the world by their pestiferous and wicked doctrine , true holines , and the pure worshipping and seruing of God . Mar. Lu● M. In deede they call them selues christians , and brag much of the gospell , but they liue such a kinde of life , as they doe whatsoeuer pleaseth them , sinning most wickedly and abhominably in dronkennes , in lechery , and all abhomination . Their Bysshops and Prelates doe vaunte and say , wee haue taken vpon vs , not a worldly , but a spirituall state and condition of life : vnder which name & false pretence , Caluin . they haue gotten great treasures , pleasures , and dignities : although wee may rather thinke them to bee like the Lybertines of our time , of whom Iudas speaketh , as it shall more clearely appeare in the discourse hereof . It followeth .

And God which is the only Lord ] Certaine old translations haue , Christ which is the only God & Lorde . In the epistle of S. Peter mention is made onely of Christe , and there hee is called Lord . For thus he writeth , 2. Peter . 2. vers. 1. Euen denyinge the Lorde which hath boughte them .

●g . Mar. A. If any man thinke it better to reade it disiunctiuely or by it selfe , then the sence will be , Chiefly they deny God , ● Pely●e . L whom once they haue professed , which is the only Lord of all things , both in heauen and earth . It followeth .

●aluin . And deny our Lord Iesus Christe ] C. Hee vnderstandeth Christe to be denyed , when such as haue bene redeemed by his bloud , haue geuen them selues againe to bee bondslaues to Satan , makinge as much as in them lyeth , the incomparable and inestimable benefite & price of our redemption , to be frustrate & of none effect . Therefore let vs remember that Christe dyed and rose againe for vs , to the end he might make vs a peculiar people to him selfe , & that he might be Lord of our lyfe , ●ug . Mar. and death . A. Agayne , Christe is denied , when wee derogate from him , that which is his owne : After which maner the Monks , and such like deny Christ . M. For when they preach that the way to eternall happinesse & felicity , Mar. Lut. is to fast , to gad & wander on pylgrimage , to builde Churches , and Monasteries : to vowe chastity , obedience , pouerty , and such like : they plainely deceaue the simple and ignorante by their works , but of Christe they make no mention at all : which is as much , as if they shoulde say , it is very needeful and necessary for thee to deserue heauen by thy owne good workes , Christe profiteth thee nothing , his works cannot help thee : and so they deny the Lorde , who hath boughte vs with his bloude .

The Heretickes also that destroy eyther the humanity or deity of Christe , are sayd to deny him , as it may appeare in the 1. of Ihon , 2. the 22. vers. and in the same epistle the 4. chapter the 3. vers .

5. My minde is therefore to put you in remembrance hereof , The text● forasmuch as yee once know this , how that the Lord , after that he had deliuered the people out of Aegypte , destroyed them which afterwarde beleeued not .

My mynde is therefore to put you in remembrance ] B. He declareth by diuers examples , Bullinger that it is not enough for vs to confesse that we are deliuered out of the Aegyptian bondage , that is , out of Satans kingdome , into the freedome & glorious liberty of the gospell which wee enioy , vnlesse our life bee answerable to the same . L. And except wee perseuere & continew in the grace of God whereunto wee are called , L. Pelycane . our deliuerance shal profit vs litle . Bullinger B. By al which things he confuteth those seducers , and exhorteth the saintes of God , to expresse the fayth of Chryste , by a lyfe worthy of Christe , and to be helpers to others , that they follow not the filthy examples of these seducers . Caluin . C. But he vseth a litle preface , either for modesty sake to excuse himselfe , that hee seeme not to teach them as being altogether ignorant of things vnknowne ; or els truely for some greater cause of earnestnes , he confesseth that he bringeth vnto them no new thing , or not heard of before , that hee may winne thereby the more credit and authority in that which hee is about to speake . Imlerus . I. I suppose ( saith hee ) that it is not needefull for me to teach you , sith you your selues are not ignorant . Caluin . C. Only I bring to your remembrances , that which yee haue once learned , L. Pelycane . L least that which yee knowe slip out of your memories . But as he geueth them knowledge to geue the more heede to be wary and circumspect , so , leaste they shoulde thinke the care that hee toke for them to bee superfluous , hee saith that it was needefull for them to bee forewarned . For this is not the vse of Gods worde only , to learne those things whereof wee haue none experience , but also that it may styrre vs vp to the earnest meditatinge of those thinges which we haue heretofore learned , and may not suffer vs by any meanes , to waxe dull and colde in knowledge . A. After this maner , Aug. M● doth Paule exhorte his sonne Tymothee , saying : Preach the worde , bee instant in season , & out of season : improoue , rebuke , exhort in all longe sufferinge and doctryne . 2. Tymo . Chap. 4. vers. 2. C. But of all that hath bene hetherto spoken , Caluin . this is the summe : after that wee are called of God , wee must not securely brag and glory of his grace , but rather walke warely in his feare : because if any man doe dally and mocke with God after this sorte , the contempt of his grace shall not escape vnpunished And this hee declareth by three examples .

That the Lord when hee had deliuered his people out of the land of Aegypt . ] The first example is taken out of the seconde booke of Moses . Bullinge . B. Euen as God in time past brought the chyldren of Israëll out of the hard seruitude and bondage of Aegypt , and led them through the middest of the red Sea , and through the wyldernes , into the lande of promyse : euen so the very same God hath brought vs ( the Lord Chryste being our guyde & captaine ) out of the seruitude and bondage of Satan by the fountaine of regeneration , wherewith he hath washed vs from all our sinnes to eternal lyfe . But as this deliuerance profited them not , which murmured agaynst God in the desert , which defiled them selues with Idolatry , with meates offered vp to Idols , with whoredome and glottony ( for certaine thowsands of them were slayne in the wildernesse ) euen so the preaching of redemption shall litle profite vs , if wee goe forwarde in the way of wickednesse and vngodlinesse . Caluin . C. The very same comparison almost is in Paule , 1. Corinth. 10. vers. 6. Those whom God indued with greate benefites , whom hee exalted to the same degree of honor ( as hee at this day hath vouchedsafe to shew vppon vs ) afterwarde hee punished seueerly for their rebellion and disobedience . In vayne is it therefore to bragge and to bee proude of the grace of God , if our deedes are not answerable to our vocation and callinge . I. And litle shall it profit , ●mlerus . that wee haue once by baptisme layde away our sinnes , vnlesse with constant mindes wee dayly goe forwarde from better to better , from vertue to vertue , to the obtayning of the celestiall and heauenly lyfe . Caluin . C. This name ( people ) is very honorably taken for the holy and elect nation : as if hee should say , it profited them nothing that by this singular pryuiledge they were receaued into the couenante , when afterward they fell away by disobedience . It followeth .

Hee destroyed them which afterward beleeued not ] Heere he noteth the welspring of all euill . For hence is it that Moses doth recken vp all their sinnes , because they would not suffer themselues to bee ruled by the worde of God . For faith consisteth in obedience towardes God all our lyfe longe . Aug. Ma● A. It is not without cause therefore that Christe sayd to the Iewes : Except yee beleeue that I am hee , Ihon. 8. vers. 24. yee shall dye in your sinnes . And the author of the epistle to the Hebr. Cha. 4. vers. 2. For vnto vs was the gospell preached , as well as vnto them : but the worde which they heard did not profite them , not being coupled wyth faith to them that heard . M. Let them therefore take heede that are called by the name of ( Christians and yet notwithstanding vnder this colour and title doe turne the grace of God into wantonnes ) least that happen vnto them , as did to the Israelites . M. Luth. And in very deede , from the time that Popery first began , and that the gospell in our age lay hidden , one plague hath followed another , by which God hath taken vengeance on the vnbeleeuers , and hath made them a Pray to Satan .

6. The texte . The Angels also which kept not their first estate , but left their owne habitation , he hath reserued in euerlasting chaynes , vnder darcknesse vnto the iudgement of the great day .

The Angels also which kept not their fyrst estate ] B. This seconde example th' Apostle S. Peter hath touched also in his 2. Bullinger epistle , and 2. ●aluin . Chap. vers. 4. C. And it is an argumente taken from the more to the lesse . For the state and condition of Angels , is farre more excellent then ours , and yet notwithstanding God reuenged their fallinge away from him with an horrible example . Therefore hee will not spare our vnfaythfulnes , Bullinger ● . Pely●ane . if we fal from grace , into the which hee hath called vs . B. L. When the Angels , sayth hee , chaunged their moste blessed and happy nature , into wickednes , neither continued in their first estate , they were throwen out of heauen into hell , where they are kept in chaynes euen vntill that last iudgment , in the which they shall receaue the sentence of eternall damnation . Aug. Mar. A. If therefore God spared not them , beinge such excellent creatures , B if wee contynew not in our estate and callinge , doinge those things , which become the chyldren of God , how shall wee escape his punyshment ? Caluin . C. This punishment verely hath bene layde vppon the inhabitants and indwellers of heauen , and so excellent ministers of God , ought dayly to be sett before our eyes , leaste at any tyme wee proudely contemne the grace of God , from whence wee fall headlonge into vtter destruction . Aug. M● A. For the Lord doth no lesse hate pryde nowe , and the contempt of his grace , then hee did in time past . Hee is no changlinge , hee remayneth one and the selfe same God still . Caluin . C. 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 in this place may bee aptly taken as well for the beginninge , as for principallity . For Iudas signifieth , that therefore they suffered punishment , because , despisinge the goodnes of God they fell from their first callinge . And by and by hee expoundeth the same when hee sayth : But lefte their owne habitation ] For they left and forsoke theyr standing wherein they were placed , as fugitiue & dastardly souldiars are wont to do in the time of warres . It followeth . Hee hath reserued in euerlastinge chaines vnder darkenesse vnto the iudgemente of the greate day ] The cruelty of this punishmente which the Apostle heere expresseth is to bee noted . They were not only free spirites , but they were also celestiall powers , and nowe they are kepte in perpetuall Chaynes . They dydde not onelye enioye and beeholde the gloryous lighte of God , but his brightnesse also did shine in them in such sorte , as it might spread abroade it selfe into all the partes and quarters of the world , like the sonne beames : whereas nowe they are drowned in darkenesse .

●g . Mar. A. It is all one with the same that S. Peter wryteth of their punyshment , althoughe in other wordes . ●luin . C. Furthermore , wee must not fayne of our owne heades a place wherein the diuells are shut vp and holden bounde . For the Apostles woulde teach vs playnely , how miserable their state and condition is , sithens the time they were depriued of their dignity for their Apostasie or fallinge away from God . Whether so euer they goe , they drawe their chaynes after them , and remaine ouerwhelmed in their darckenesse . In the meane time their punishment is deferred vntill that great and extreme day of iudgement . A. But what wee must thinke and iudge of the fall of Angells , ●ng . Mar. and howe soberly wee must reason and dispute of such matters , it hath bene sufficiently spoken of in the second epistle of S. Peter the seconde Chapter , the fourth verse .

The texte . 7. Euen as Sodome and Gomorrhe , and the cyties aboute them , which in like maner defiled themselues with fornication , and followed straunge flesh , are set forth for an ensample , and suffer the payne of eternall fire .

Euen as Sodome and Gomorrhe , and the cyties aboute them ] B. The third example is taken out of the booke of Genesis the nineteenth Chap. verse twenty-fourth , Bulling Caluin . C and it is more generall : for it sheweth , that God will punishe all the wicked , one with another , no kinde of men excepted . Aug. Ma● A. Hee leaueth out the example of that olde worlde , that peryshed ouerflowed with water , whereof Peter maketh mention . But this destruction of the Sodomites is no lesse horrible , wherein the Lord would shewe most clearely , how much the vncleannesse and filthynesse of mans life doth displease him , and the forgetfulnesse of his heauenly benefits . L. Pelycane . L. Sodome ( sayth he ) and Gomorrha , and the cyties adioyninge thereabout , when they floryshed with all aboundance and plenty of thinges , ( euen Moses witnessinge the same in the thirteenth of Genesis , Gene. 13. vers. 10. verse the tenth ) because they abused the louing kindnesse and goodnesse of God in royetousnesse & pleasure , defiling them selues with all kinde of wicked and abhominable filthinesse , sodainely the wrath of God destroyed them , to bee an example doubtlesse to others , which abuse the benefits of Christe through vncleannes and filthines of lyfe . Which in like maner defiled them selues with fornication ] C. When hee saith here that the cyties thereaboute committed fornication in like sorte with them , ●aluin . this ought to be referred not to the Israelites , and to the Angels , but to Sodome and Gomorrhe ; this pronowne 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 being the masculine gender notwithstanding . For the Apostle Iudas respected rather the inhabitours thereof , then the place . And followed strang fleshe ) Hee sayth to goe after strange flesh , for to be vyolently drawen to monstrous and vnlawfull lustes contrary to the common course and kinde of nature . For we know that the Sodomytes were not content with common and vnlawfull lyberty of harlots , but were poluted and defiled with a more execrable and contrary fashion of filthines . It followeth .

Are set forth for an ensample , and suffer the paine of eternall fyre ] Hee affyrmeth that the fyre , wherewith the fiue cyties perished and were consumed , is a type and figure of the eternall and euerlastinge fyre . Therefore God at that time appoynted it to bee a notable document and instruction to keepe men in his awe and feare , euen till the ende of the worlde . Hence is it that mention is so often made thereof inscripture . For when the Prophets of God doe minde to set forth some notable and fearefull example of Gods iudgement in writinge , paintinge it out as it were vnder the figure of fire and brimstone , they allude to the destruction & ouerthrowe of Sodome and Gomorrhe . A. As Esay . 13 vers. 19. Aug. Ma● Hieremy 49. vers. 18. and 50. vers. 40. Amos 4. vers. 11. Soph. 2. vers. 9. Caluin . Wherefore it is not without cause that Iudas striketh a terror and feare into the heartes and mindes of people of all times and ages , when hee layeth before them such a glasse as this is to dare and looke vppon . By this also , that the Apostle betaketh the wicked and vngodly to eternall fyre , wee gather , that that fearefull spectacle and fighte that Moses describeth in the 19. of Genesis : was but onely a type and figure of greater punishment to come . Of the euerlasting fyre reade more in the twenty-fiue of Matth. verse the forty-one .

8. The texte . Lykewise these being deceaued by dreames , defile the fleshe , despise rulers , and speake euyll of them that are in authority .

Likewise these being deceiued by dreames ] B. Here the Apostle describeth & setteth forth these deceauers to this ende , Bullinger . not to ease him selfe of choller , but that they being knowne , the godly may the better shunne and avoyde them . This doth so agree with the thinges that haue bene spoken of before , that looke what the Sodomites and Gamorrheans did , who were destroyed and consumed by fyre sent from heauen , the same also doe these deceauers .

Caluin . C. Notwithstandinge hee doth not so precisely vrge this similitude , as if he compared them in all points to the Sodomits , of whom he here maketh mencion , or to the fallinge angells , or to the vnfaithfull or incredulous people . Only hee declareth that they are the vessells of wrath appoynted to destruction : neyther can they escape the handes of God , but that one time or other hee will punishe them in like sorte , that other may take example thereby . For the purpose and intente of the Apostell is , to prohibite or forbid the godly to whom hee wryteth , that they keepe no company with these deceauers . Bullinger B. First hee calleth them dreamers yea , rather mocked and deceaued by dreames , ( that is ) seduced & blinded , which through the vanity of their mindes , imbrace false thinges for true thinges , to weete , pleasures , & worldly lustes , which make men wretched and myserable , rather then blessed & happy . For when they dreame , they thinke them selues to bee in great ioy & felicity , when they are far deceiued . Caluin . They defile the fleshe ] C. Hee saith , that they defiled their flesh , as it were dreaminge : by the which words , he noteth their blockishnes and impudency . As if hee should say , they did as it were prostrate and throw downe themselues to all kinde of filthines and vncleannes , in such sorte , that euen the most wicked would abhorre so to doe ; whereby these dreamers doe shew , how shameles & senceles they were . This is a metaphoricall kinde of speakinge , whereby hee signifieth , that they were so dull and altogether blockishe , that without all regarde of honesty , they gaue them selues to all vncleannes . But here the antithesis or comparison is to be noted , when he saith , that they defiled the fleshe : that is to say : that as they misused theyr vnhonest partes , so they contemned and despised , as a thing reprochfull and of none accoumpt , that which hath the chiefe soueraignty in the gouerning and rulinge of mankinde : & therefore he addeth immediatly . They despise rulers ] B. They doe not only defile themselues with all kinde of vncleannes , Bullinger but despise also their rulers and gouernours and such as bee placed in high authority and office , confirmed and stablished by a lawe , and appointed by God himselfe , the peace tranquillity & honesty might be preserued and maintained amonge men . Caluin . C. By this place it appeareth , that these men were mouers of sedition and tumult , they sought to liue without rule or gouernment , that being deliuered from the bondage and feare of the lawe , they might sinne the more freely . So that in these lawlesse men , two thinges doe alwayes concurre and meete together : the one , free liberty to sinne and to liue as they lust : the other , dysalowing of magistrates , and the subuersion of all good and ciuile order . Now as they sought by all meanes to liue at liberty , to bee subiecte to no lawe , so it is euident by the wordes of the Apostle , that they vsed to clatter & to speake very saucely & contunicliously of magistrates , and of such as were in office and authority . And therefore it followeth . And speake euill of them ( saith hee ) that are in authority ] Euen as franticke men at this day do fume and frett when they are kept vnder the rule & gouernment of magistrates , & exclame and cry out like madde men , against all ciuill pollicy and good gouernment , and that the sworde of iustice , is but a prophane thinge , and contrary to the doctrine of piety : to conclude , they would haue neither kinges , princes , nor magistrates to bee of the church of God , M. Luth . but vtterly bannishe and expell them . M. But we teach thus : that as longe as we lyue here one this earth , we must bee subiect and obay the magistrate . For the faith of Christe doth not disalowe outwarde pollicie , and cyuill gouernment . And therefore it is not lawfull for any man to withdrawe him selfe from obedience due to the magistrate , as our Anabaptistes and popishe Bysshops doe : for there be many decrees extant of our hygh Bysshops , bearing this title ; Of ecclesiasticall liberty or freedome , Aug. Mar● A which must needes bee the meere inuentions of Satan , if this doctrine of the Apostle doe come from the holy ghoste , as it is not of vs to bee doubted .

9. Yet Mychaell th' archangell , when hee stroue against the diuell , The texte . and dysputed aboute the body of Moses , durst not giue raylinge sentence , but sayde , the Lorde rebuke thee .

Yet Mychaell th' archangell ] M. This is one of the places , for the which , M. Luth. the olde auncient writers in time past , haue reiected this epistle , because hee bringeth in here an example which is red in no place of scripture , to weete , that ( Mychaell th' archangell did striue with the diuell aboute the body of Moses . ) Some do thinke , that herehence this contention grewe , for because that many notable thinges are written of Moses , how God buried him , neither doth any man know yet where his sepulchre is . Then , that the scripture doth witnesse of him , that there arose no prophet in Israëll like vnto Moses , whom the Lorde knewe face to face . Deut. 34. vers. 10. Syth Moses therefore was of so worthy estimation , the doctors doe affyrme that an Angel sent from heauen did bury him , neither doth any man knowe of his sepulchre to this day . And it was done for this cause , least the Iewes , if they had had the body of Moses being so excellent and so famous a prophet , should vpon this occasion haue fallen to Idolatry : and that herehence afterward grew this contention & strife aboute the body of Moses , whereof Iudas maketh mention here , when the diuell would haue it knowne where the body of Moses was , to geue the people occasion to commit Idolatry to the same . Caluin . C. Furthermore , because they thinke this history to bee taken out of some Apocriphall booke , hence came it that this epistle was so litle esteemed . But whereas the Iewes haue so many things by tradition of the fathers , it is no absurdity to say , that Iudas declareth that , which hath bene receaued from hand to hande many yeares and longe agoe . Wee know verely that many foolishe toyes and trifles haue bene receaued vnder this title and name of ( Tradition ) : as the papists at this day doe reken euery foolishe and vnsauery fable of doting Monckes into this cataloge or kalender . But this doth not binder , but that they had certaine vnwritten histories . That the Lord buried Moses , it is out of all controuersie , that is , that his sepulchre was not knowen , it was the secret purpose and will of God , the cause whereof , wee haue already touched . What maruaile then is it , if Satan goe about so busily to bring to lighte the body of the prophet being hid by the secret counsaile of God . But the Angels withstoode him , as they are alwayes ready at hand to minister to the Lord. Psal. 103. vers. 20.21 . And truly wee doe see , that Satan in all times and ages hath not ceased to laboure very earnestly in this point , and to seeke all meanes , and to speake prouerbially , to tourne euery stone , that is , to leaue no way vnattempted , to geue foolishe and ignorant men an occasion to commit Idolatry to so many bodies , as there bee seruantes and saintes of God . Wherefore this epistle ought not to be doubted of , by reason of this testimony , because it is in scripture no where to bee founde . It followeth . Durst not giue rayling sentence ] That Mychaell is brought in alone disputinge against Satan , it is no newe thinge . Wee knowe that there are thowsandes of Aungells alwayes ready at hande , to doe the will and commaundement of God . Daniell 7. vers. 10. For hee maketh his choise of this or that Aungel , and appointeth him to doe this or that , as pleaseth him .

It followeth . But sayde the Lorde rebuke thee ] This also is in Zachary . Zacha. 3. vers. 2. The Lord reproue thee then Satan , or brydle thee , or keepe thee vnder . It is a comparison from the greater to the lesse , as they call it . M. As if Iudas should say , M. Luth. although Mychaell were an Archangell , yet durst he not cursse and rayle against the diuell : and yet these blaspheminge seducers are not afrayde , nor ashamed , to treade vnder their feete , as it were , the powers that are ordeyned of God , and to cursse and speake euill of them that are in authority , euen to the eyght & ninth degree , beinge nothinge else but weake and frayle men . And this Archaungell feared to vtter any raylinge worde agaynst the wicked diuell , reprobate and already damned , but sayd onely , The Lord reproue thee and rebuke thee . Caluin . C. This argument Peter hath handled more briefly in his second epistle vers . eleuenth .

10. But these speake euill of those thynges which they know not , and what thinges they knowe naturally , as beastes whych are without reason , in these things they corrupte them selues .

But these speake euill of those things which they know not ] I. Hee hath a respect vnto that sayinge : Imlerus . A foole aunswereth before hee vnderstandeth : Prouerb . 1 vers. 28. & 18. vers. 13. a very foole when hee holdeth his tongue is counted wyse : and hee that stoppeth his lyppes is esteemed prudent . These in like sorte are worthely to bee counted fooles , which goe about to defend their ignorance by euill reproches . Caluin . C. Iudas therefore signifieth , that they are very beastly , blockishe and dulheaded , not knowinge nor vnderstandinge what is worthy of honour , neyther what belongeth or appertayneth thereunto : notwithstandinge , they are thus farre made bolde , that they are not ashamed to condemne those thinges that passe their reache .

●ug . Mar. A. This wee may clearely and euidently see & behold in the Pope him selfe , and his cornuted or horned Bysshops , ●ar . Lut. M which knew nothing els , but to excommunicate , cursse , and to deliuer to Satan , not onely kinges and Princes of the worlde , but God also him selfe and his blessed saintes , which thing is to bee seene in the Bull of the supper of the Lorde . They knowe , or at least they should know , that our saluation consisteth of fayth and charity : they cannot away to heare their workes spoken against , and to be comdemned : they cannot abyde to heare vs talke and reason one with another , that wee are saued onely by Chrystes workes and merites : and therefore doe they blaspheme and speake euill of all chrystian doctrine , Aug. Mar. whereof they are ignorante . A. The knowledge of tongues also they despise , which they haue not attained vnto , but in their owne dotinges , and fayned fansies , they doe wonderously please them selues , alwayes erring and leadinge others into error . 2. Tymo . 3. vers. 13. It followeth . And what things they knowe naturally , as beastes which are without reason , Caluin . in these thinges they corrupt them selues . ] C. Heere hee affirmeth that they were infected with diuers and sundry kindes of vyces , because beastlyke they were mooued and stirred vnto those thinges , which are subiect to our corporall sences , keeping neither modesty nor measure , but altogether weltring and wallowing them selues like hogges and swyne in their filthines and vncleannes . This aduerbe ( naturally ) is a worde that is opposite or contrary to reason and iudgement . For the rage and vyolence of nature , doth raygne and beare rule in brute beastes onely . But in men , reason must haue the chiefe gouernance , to moderate and to bridle their appetites and affections . A. To bee briefe , Aug. Ma● Iudas pronowceth such seducers as these bee , sencelesse , & without all reason : which S. Peter also confirmeth , in these wordes . But these as brute beastes , led with sensuality , and made to bee taken and destroyed , speake euill of the thinges that they vnderstand not , and shall perishe through their owne corruption , and receaue the rewarde of vnryghteousnesse . 2. Pet. 2. vers. 12.13 .

11. Woe bee vnto them , for they are gonne in the way of Caine , and are vtterly giuen to the error of Balaam for lucres sake , and haue pearished in the gaine sayinge of Core .

Woe bee vnto them , Bullinge . for ] B. Heer the Apostle describeth and setteth forth againe these men , these crafty deceauers , by other haynous and mischieuous actes & deedes that they committed : to weete , they murdered their parentes , they slew their owne kinsmen & countrymen , they were couetous , ambitious , traitors , ●luin . mouers of sedition . C. Yet all this notwithstandinge , it may be wondred at why the Apostle doth so sharply reprehend them .

Whereas hee sayd before , that Mychaell the Archaungell was not suffered so much as to shew any token of contumely or raylinge against Satan . His minde was not to set down this to be followed as a generall rule , but only to shew , and that briefly , by the example of Machaell , how intollerable this madnesse of theirs was , when they did so prowdly , and so malapertly rayle against that , which God would haue reuerenced and honored . Doubtlesse , Mychaell myght lawfully haue lightened and thundred out as it were cursses and banninges against Satan , as wee see many times how earnestly and vehemently the prophets doe manace and threaten the wicked . But forasmuch , as Mychaell abstayned from such seuere dealinge , which otherwise hee mought lawfully haue vsed , what madnesse is this of theirs , to passe the boundes and lymmittes of measure , to be shewed towards the creatures of God which excell in glory ?

Moreouer , when hee doth so expresly touche these seducers , hee doth so much wyshe them to bee punished , as to forewarne them what shall bee the ende of them , and that for this cause , and to this ende , least they should draw others to the same destruction with them before they bee ware : so that Iudas coulde not more liuelyer describe them and reproue them , then by vsinge these examples , and therefore sayeth , that punishments remayne for them .

It followeth . For they haue gone in the way of Caine ] . C. He sayth , Caluin . that they were the followers of Caine , who being vnthankful to God , peruerting and corrupting his true worship and seruice , M. Luth . berefte him selfe of his byrthrighte , M and slewe his brother Abell , for this onely cause , because Abell was more ryghteouse and godly then hee : for God accepted Abells sacrifice , and not Caines : Gen. 4. vers. 5. and 1. Ihon. 3. vers. 12. The way therefore of Caine , is to leane and to sticke to their owne workes , & to blaspheme & speake euill of workes , which are good workes in deede : and at a word , to sley and kill them that goe the ryght way . In this poynte the Papistes shewe them selues very stout and bolde , B for they follow the manners and condicions of thieues and robbers , ●llinger persecuting through couetousnes and enuy , the true followers and professors of pure and sincere religion . It followeth . And are vtterly geuen to the error of Balaam for lucres sake ] C. Hee sayth , ●luin . that like vnto Balaam they were deceaued by rewards , because they corrupted the true doctrine of piety & godlines for filthy lucres sake . But the Metaphor that hee vseth , doth expresse & set forth somewhat more at large their filthines and impiety : for hee sayth , that lyke as a riuer flowing ouer the bankes , so were they giuen to all kinde of ryotousnesse , and wantonnesse passinge measure . ●ug . Mar. ● . Luth. A. This in the Papistes euen blinde men may see . M. They thought it best to keepe them selues in corners secret for a time , trustinge vppon Gods heauenly grace : and nowe I wis they come forth in great companies , seperating them selues into diuerse & sundry kindes of workes , and doe heere and there disperse them selues abroade . All that they doe is for lucres sake , and for couetousnesse of money , to fill their panches , and to serue diuerse lustes . Of this the reader may see more , in the second epistle of Peter the second Chap. the fifteenth verse . It followeth . And haue peryshed in the gayne saying of Core ] C. Thirdly , Caluin he saith that they followed the gaine saying of Core , to weete , because they troubled the peaceable and quiet state of the church . Bulling● B. Core beinge ouercomne of ambition , would violently take vpon him the priesthoode , and therefore made a greate commotion and sturre in the tents of the Israelites . But hee did not longe preuaile against Moses . For by and by the earth opened , and swallowed vp him with all his confederates , so that they went downe to hell alyue : shewing to all mortall men by this horrible example , that are led and seduced by the spirite of pride and arrogancy , that stirre vp the multitude against the true ministers , what they must looke for .

To this example the Apostle compareth the seducers of his time , nay rather of all tymes and ages , which take vpon them the office and Function of teachinge , reiectinge and litle esteeming in very deede the true and sincere teachers of truth and verity . Hence is it that these lewde speeches proceede from our owne countrymen , papistes , to weete , these wordes : ☜ Who hath opened or reuealed to these vyle varlets and lewde knaues ( meaning the true ministers of Gods worde ) the vnderstanding and meaninge of the scriptures ? As for vs Catholiks , our holy father the Pope , hath made & ordayned vs priestes , wee are the illuminate doctors taught from God himself , wee onely are called maisters , to vs onely belongeth the office and function of teachinge , & to giue determinate sentence and iudgemente of all matters and cases .

By these wordes they stirre vp the mindes both of certaine princes , and of the inferior sorte , against good men , defenders and witnes bearers to the truth , whom they vexe , & persecute , but to their owne destruction .

● . Luth. M. They impute vnto vs that we are mouers of sedition , when wee exclaime and inueighe against their most wicked and corrupt manners , and their peruerse doctrine , when as it is they themselues that rayse vp tumultes . Christe is our Aaron and high priest , whom alone wee all ought to heare , and to acknowledge him to bee the Bysshop and high priest of holy thinges : but the Pope , his Byshops and Cardinalles will none of that . For they doe wonderfully extoll and magnifie them selues : they challenge to them selues all impery , rule , and power : and as for Christe , and the honor due vnto him , they make smale accompte thereof : they spoyle him of all together . B. But they shall vnderstand and feele one day with whom they haue kept all this bitter contention ; when , with the Corytes , Bullin● they shall receaue condigne punishment : M. Lut. M nay but God hath euen now already punyshed them that the earth hath swallowed them vp and ouerwhelmed them : that is , they are altogether earthly , and as it were drowned and buried in sensuality , and all kinde of volupteousnes and pleasure , that are nothinge els but euen the very worlde it selfe .

12. The text● These are spottes in your feastes of charity , when they feaste with you , without all feare feedinge them selues : cloudes they are without water , carried about of wyndes , trees withered at fruite gathering , and without fruite , twise deade , & plucked vp by the rootes .

These are spottes in your feastes ] B. Hyther to by examples he hath depainted forth in liuely colours these deceauers and seducers . Bullinger Now the very same deceauers he setteth forth againe by moste euident and liuely coloures of similitudes . But before hee bringeth forth these parables or similitudes , hee warneth vs aforehande , that such deceauers are spottes in your feast of Charity . ●uin . C. For this greeke worde 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , signifieth a banquet or feast , which the faithfull are wonte to keepe among them selues , for no other cause , but to testifie and declare thereby , the vnity and agreement that ought to bee among brethren . But these wicked and vngodly seducers ( saith he ) defiled and polluted these feastes , with their vngodly and vnciuile behauiour , feedinge them selues afterwarde with banquet after banquet most dissolutely and beyonde all measure . In the feasts of the godly , there was moderation and honest behauiour , frugality and temperance . And therefore they thought it vnseemely and vnlawfull to admit into their company any wicked and vngodly persons , who make a God of their belly . Touchinge the brotherly meetings of the godly at their feastes , Tertullian in his Apologitico the 30. Chapter doth very trimly describe and set forth . See Peter also in his second epistle the second Chapter , verse thirteenth .

It followeth . When they feaste with you without all feare , feeding them selues ] L. That is to say , L. Pelycane . Caluin . when you fast , they feaste , geuing them selues to royetousnes , and gluttony . C. Some bookes haue 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , that is , feasting together with you . If you like it better to reade it so , then the sence is , that they are not onely shamelesse , but also burdenous and troublesome , as they that would stuffe and fill their panches , vpon the common cost and charges of the Church . But Peter wryteth somewhat otherwise , That they delight in their deceauings , 2. Pet. 2. vers. 13. and eate with the company of the faythfull . As if hee shoulde say , yee bee not well aduised to feede and to nourishe such hurtfull beastes and venemous serpentes , yea twice foolyshe to fulfill their ryotousnesse and wastfull spending . And I would to God there were at this day more discretion and aduised iudgement in the good and godly men , who while they shew them selues fauourable and ouer gentle to the wicked , bring great hurte and damage to the whole church . B. This also might well bee applyed to idle monkes and such like . Bullinge . For the only and chiefest care that they had , was to feede & to pamper vp themselues : they are nothing els but spots , corruption , infamy , and a burden to the church , whereof they ought to bee the greatest ornaments , lightes , and pyllers . It followeth .

Without all feare feeding themselues ] A. That is to say , carelesly , impudently , A. Marl● & without any reuerence eyther of God or of his church . Cloudes they are wythout water ] C. The two similitudes that are in Peter hee gathereth into one , ●uin . and yet of one and the selfe same sence and meaninge . For both of them doe often times touch their vayne ostentation and bragging . For when these varlets make a shew of many fayre promises outwardly , inwardly they become barren and fruitlesse . Euen as the cloudes tost & carried aboute with great windes and tempests , doe make a shew and hope of much rayne , sodainely doe vanishe to nothinge , so these deceauers make great boast , but litle roste , great promises outwardly , but nothinge so inwardly . Peter addeth the similitude of Wells dry and without water . But Iudas gathereth together many Metaphors to one and the selfe same ende . It followeth . Trees wythered at fruite gatheringe , and without fruite ] I. They are like also vnto trees that lose their leaues at haruest time , ●mserus . that wyther a way , and bring forth no fruite . So these deceauers are naughty and deade trees , that must bee mored and plucked vp by the rootes , if they bringe forth no fruyte .

Aug. Mar. A. Some doe turne it , rotten trees : that is , which bringe forth no fruite , but such as is corrupte and wythered . ●lling . Twyce deade ] B. Besides this they lyue a lyfe not aunswerable to the euangelycall doctrine , drawinge others also with them both with their wicked doctrine , and euill example to destruction .

It followeth . And plucked vp by the rootes ] That is , they are like vnto trees plucked vp by the rootes , beinge past all hope of sprynginge and sproutinge agayne , howsoeuer the leaues appeare outwardely , yet wythin they , haue neyther Sappe nor Iuyce .

13. They are the raging waues of the Sea , The te● foming out their owne shame , they are wandring starres , to whom is reserued the mist of darknes for euer .

They are the raging waues of the Sea ] B. Furthermore , Bullin● hee lykeneth them to the raging Sea , lyfting and casting vp their waues on hygh . Caluin C. Euen so these deceauers pufte vppe with pryde , doe nought else but blowe and pufe out their swellinge and prowde wordes of hautynesse and vanityes , sauouring nothinge at all of the spirite , whereby they cast men into a brutishe kynde of amazednesse and astonyshmente . Bullin● B. For as the water of the Sea the more that it is troubled and tossed with sharp stormes and cruell tempestes of wynde and weather , the more filth and froth it gathereth , and fometh : so these wicked seducers , the more outcries they make , and stirre vp seditious tumults , the more they make manifest to all men their shamelessenes & infamy . ●uin . C. The like in these our dayes are these phantasticall spirits that terme them selues Lybertines . ●iuely ●cripti● of the●ily of ●e . A man would say that they doe nothinge els but thunder , For they scorne and disdaine at the common and vsuall kinde of speakinge , and haue deuised and fayned to themselues certaine strange and proper kindes and formes of speaches . And after they thinke that their schollers be rapte into the heauens , sodainely they fall into beastly errours . For they fayne that to be the state of innocency , where there is no difference betwene honest and vnhonest thinges . They fayne that to bee a spirituall life , when euery man ( settinge all feare aparte ) doth carelessely and to to much giue him selfe to his owne appetite and sensuality . They say that wee are made Gods , because God doth as it were sucke and sup vp our spirites , when they leaue the body . This their errour ought to make vs the more carefull with reuerence to imbrace the simplicity of the scriptures , least disputing and reasoning thereof more curiously and philosophically then it behooueth vs , wee doe not so much as approche vnto heauen , but rather fall and bee drowned sodainely in the Labyrinth of dyuerse erroures . Bulling B. But it seemeth that this Parable of Iudas was taken out of the prophet Esayes fifty seauenth Chap. verse 20. where it is thus wrytten : The wicked are like the raginge sea that cannot rest , whose water fometh with the myre and grauel .

It followeth . They are wandring starres ] C. So these deceauers are called , Caluin . because they dazell the eyes with the similitude or likenesse of lighte , that soone vanisheth away and pearisheth . B. So these false teachers , Bullinge . doe seeme to them selues to bee brighte shyning starres , as who woulde say , illuminate Doctors , Lightes of the worlde , profounde clarkes . But because they stand not to their opinion , nor follow the constant and knowne truth , but are ruled rather by their affections , they make shipwracke of the vnwise and ignorant . It followeth .

To whom the miste of darckenesse is reserued for euer ] B. Now he threatneth them iudgement , Bulling. that the faythfull may take the better heede of them : as if hee shoulde say , althoughe they seeme nowe to raygne as Lordes and kynges , yet notwithstandinge they shall not escape the iudgement of the Lord . For hee reserueth them to bee punyshed with Satan in that hellishe and eternall darkenes for euer . ●erus . I. For it is meete and righte that they that deny Chryste the true lighte in deede , bee delyuered to perpetuall darcknesse for euer .

14. Enoch the seuenth from Adam prophesied before of such , The texte . saying , behold the Lord shall come with thowsands of saintes .

M. Luth. Enoch the seuenth ] M. This place is read no where in scripture : which is another reason , why some of the fathers haue not receaued this epistle . Caluin . C. But this prophesie seemeth rather to bee 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , that is to say , vnwritten , or deliuered by tradition , then to be taken out of the bookes Apochriphall . For it may bee , that the auncient fathers commended this worthy sayinge , to bee remembred of posterity . If any man demaunde , seeing that the like sentences are to be found in scripture euery where , why Iudas hath not cyted some written testymonies out of some one or other of the Prophets for confirmation thereof : The answere is easie . That Iudas would only rehearse what the spirit pronounced of them in old time . And so doe the wordes here sounde . For hee nameth Enoch the seuenth from Adam , to commend the antiquity of the prophesie , to weete , because it was extant in the first world . M. Lu● M. But herehence we do learne , that God from the beginning of the world hath caused his worde to bee preached vnto some , ( promising thereby grace and saluation to them that belieue , but to the vnfaithfull foreshewinge iudgement and damnation ) euen till Christes ascention : from the which time the worde of the Lord hath bene preached openly to all the worlde . But before our Sauiour Christes natiuity , God hath chosen only to himselfe a certaine lineal descent , from Adam to Abraham : and from Abraham to Dauid : and so alonge from Dauid to Mary the mother of Christe , hee chose some , to whom hee delyuered his worde . The worde of the Lorde therefore hath alwayes bene preached in the worlde , but neuer so openly as in these last dayes . After this manner also did our father Enoch preach the word of the Lord , which vndoubtedly hee had learned of his father Adam , and of the holy ghost . It followeth . Behold the Lord commeth ] C. The preterperfect tence is put for he future tence propehtically . Caluin With thousands of Angells ] By these words he signifieth as well the faithful as the Angells : for they shal both together garnish & so forth the tribunal seate of Christ , when he shal come to iudge the worlde . Hee saith thowsandes , euen as Daniell also telleth of many times ten thowsandes of Aungells , in the seuenth Chap. verse 10. least the multitude of the wicked , lyke the raging and vyolent sea , should burst in vpon the children of God , and carry them away by force and violence , while they thinke it will come to passe , that the Lord in time will gather together those that bee his , parte whereof are nowe inhabitinge the heauens , which wee cannot now see with our eyes , parte are here nowe in the worlde couered vnder the chaffe .

15. To giue iudgement against all men , and to rebuke all that are vngodly amonge them , The texte of all their vngodly deedes which they haue vngodly committed , and of all their cruell speakinges whych vngodly sinners haue spoken against him .

M. Luth. To giue iudgement against all men ] M. He speaketh of the second comminge of Christe , for at his first comminge , hee came not into the world to iudge the world , but that the worlde by him might bee saued . Ihon the 3. vers. 17. And to rebuke all that are vngodly amonge them C. ] The vengeance of God that hangeth ouer the heads of the reprobate , ought to keepe and conteine the chosen & elect of God in feare & trembling . It followeth . Of all their vngodly deedes ] Hee speaketh of their deedes and wordes , because these corruptors , did not only much harme and hurt by their wicked & vngodly life , but also by their vncleane and peruerse doctrine . It followeth . And of all their cruell speakinges whych vngodly sinners haue spoken against him ] M. These seducers speake very boldly & cruelly against the comminge of the Lord , they are impudent , M. Luth shamelesse , and to too arrogant , they mocke and blaspheame him . Hee calleth therefore their talking & clattering ( cruell speakings ) by reason of their obstinate boldnesse , their pride , and malepartnesse .

16. These are murmurers , complainers , The texte walking after their own lusts , whose mouths speake prowde things , they haue men in great reuerence because of aduantage .

These are murmurers ] C. Now againe he describeth these seducers by their affections . Caluin . L. These ( saith hee ) because they measure felicity in things pertayning outwardly to the body , L. Pelycane . if any trouble or affliction doe happen vnto them , by and by they are offended , they waxe impacient , they murmur against God , they complaine of the shortnes of a mans life , that it is subiect to so many diseases , miseries and calamities , wishing that it were longer , & not oppressed with so many euills : as who would say , being without hope of the life to come . ●luin . C. And because they delight themselues in wicked lusts and desires , they become waiward and froward , hard to bee pleased , they are neuer at quiet . Herehence commeth their murmuring & complaining , they are neuer satisfied , let men doe what they can to please them .

It followeth . And their mouth speaketh proud things ] I. That is , ●lerus . they come in with their high and lofty words , they set forth them selues very proudly and braggingly , they play the partes of Thrasoes out-right . Bullinger B. They tel vs wonderfull & strange oracles concerninge vertues lore , neuer heard of before , and all to deceaue vs : and yet they loue neyther truth nor vertue in dede & from the hart . It followeth . They haue men in great reuerence because of aduantage ] C. Here he sheweth that they are of a myserable disposition because they would doe any seruile worke for lucres sake . Caluin . And commonly this inequality or greedines , by which they differ from other men , is to bee seene in such Pesants as these be , and yet notwithstandinge , when there is no man to check or controule them , their insolencie and pryde is intollerable , they take much vpon them , they are very imperious . But such as they feare , and stand in awe of , if they bee in hope of any thinge to be gotten by them , those they doe shamefully flatter and smoth and soothe with sweete and fayre words . Bulling● B. They speake not according to the truth & matter it selfe , but such thinges as are pleasaunt vnto them , of whom they hope to reape some benefit or commodity . They are therefore clawbacks & most shameles flatterers : because they haue men in great reuerence & admiration for aduantage . Then the which kinde of men there are none more blind , Caluin . A. Mar. none more wicked . C. Person is here taken for any great man or noble man , A whereof S. Iames 2. vers. 1.

17. The tex● But yee beloued remember the woordes which were spoken before of the Apostles of our Lord Iesus Christe .

18. How that they told you , that there should be mockers in the last time , which should walke after their owne vngodly lustes .

But yee beloued remember ] I. Now he exhorteth those to whom he writeth , Imlerus . Bulling● B to beware of these deceauers , & of their great impiety & vngodlines , Caluin . C and therfore addeth the admonitions and forewarninges both of the Prophets of olde time , and also of the Apostles , sayinge : Remember the wordes which were spoken before of the Apostles ] L. Let this bee an argument of no force , Pely●ne . against the author of this epistle , to proue him to be none of the Apostles : sith the old father speaketh here of the Apostles accordinge to the common manner , as they that haue preached longe before him , so that it is not to be thought iniurious , that this author maketh mention of the other Apostles of a singuler modesty , whereby his meaning was , that men should not so much credit and beleeue him , as other of the Apostles , speaking and writinge the like , and the selfe same things of false preachers and false Apostles . ●lling . B. And therefore it is diligently to bee noted & marked , that this worthy Apostle is not ashamed to vse , as his owne , yea and to alleage also the writinges & sayings of his fellowe Apostles . But in these our daies , a man may finde many proude & arrogant fellowes , that think great disdaine to vse other mens sayinges bee they neuer so good & godly : nay they think nothing well spoken or done , but that that cometh from them selues . It followeth . How that they tolde you ] A. Iudas here speaketh , Aug. Mar not onely of the liuely preaching of the worde , but also of the wrytings of th' Apostles them selues . That there should bee mockers in the last times ] C. He vnderstandeth that to be the last time , Caluin wherein the state and condition of the church being renued hath receaued a firme & sure promise of continuance euen to the ende of the world , beginninge from the first comming of Christe : A of the which matter S. Paule speaketh euery where , but specially in the 1. Corin. 10. Aug. Ma● chap. vers. 11. And in the 1. to Tymo . chap. 4. vers. 1. and 1. of Tymo . chap. 3. vers. 1. There shall come mockers C. ] He calleth them mockers after the vsuall maner of speaking in the scriptures , Caluin . which being drunken as it were with wicked prophaning & contemning of the name of God , do breake forth into al kinde of beastly behauiour , so that no religion can keepe or containe them within the limites of their duty : the reason is ; because they feare not at all in their mindes the iudgement to come , they haue no hope in them of the blessed and euer during life . Euen as at this day , the world is full euery where of such Epicures , contemners , & despisers of God , which shaking of altogether all reuerence and godly feare , doe very wickedly and maliciously , scorne and mocke at the doctrine of piety , as though it were a tale or fable that is tolde . Bullinger B. Of this S. Peter speaketh very plentifully in his second epistle the third Chap. verse the third .

●he texte . 19. These are makers of sects , fleshly , hauing not the spirite .

Caluin . These are makers ] C. Some greeke bookes hath the participle absolutely : some doe adde the greeke word 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , but in the same sence almost : for he vnderstandeth such as seuer them selues from the church : they will haue no discipline exercised therein , they are altogether geuen to the flesh and not to the spirite . M. Luth. M. Hee alludeth to that saying of Peter : they bring in damnable sects . For there bee som the study and occupy their braines about nothinge els , but how they may cause diuision in the Church of God , to breake the vnity of the faith : as for the common order taken amongst Christians , how euery man may please his neighbour , that they l●●●ot , they cannot abyde it : but as touching their owne inuentions , & deuises of their own making , which is nothing but hypocrisie , and false seruing of God , that pleaseth them wonderously well . It followeth . Fleshly minded , Caluin . hauinge not the spirite ] C. Here minde , in this place , as it signifieth the life of man geuen to fleshlinesse , so it is opposite or contrary to the spirite : and therefore it signifieth here , corruption of nature , such as is in men not yet regenerated : for this degenerate nature of ours , which wee haue receaued and drawne as it were from our first parentes , is altogether corrupted , grosse , and earthly , not able of it selfe to aspire to the perfect knowledge of God , vnlesse it bee renued and regenerated againe by his spirite , as wel testifieth S. Paule in his first epistle to the Corinthians the second chapter , the fouretenth verse .

20. But yee dearely beloued , The text edefie your selues in your most holy faith , praying in the holy-ghost .

But yee dearely beloued ] B. Here againe hee exhorteth them as hee did before , Bulling● to perseuere in the truth , and to apply them selues to godlynes . C. He sheweth them also that meanes , Caluin . how they may bee able to withstand and ouercome the sleights & subtilties of Satan , & to make them of none effect : to wete , if they haue charity ioyned with faith , watching continually for the comminge of Christe . But as Iude is plentiful & often in metaphors , so also he hath his proper kinde of speaking , which is briefly of vs to be noted & marked . It followeth . Edifying your selues in your most holy fayth ] He signifieth , that they must keepe the grounde and foundation of faith : and that it is not sufficient to be grounded & stablished in the right fayth , ●g . Mar. vnlesse wee grow & increase dayly more and more therein . A. For to builde & reare vp this foundation of faith is nothing else but to profit more and more , day by day , in the knowledge of God , and the Lord Iesus Christ : which cannot verely be done and brought to passe but by the operation and working of the holy ghost . C. Hee calleth their faith most holy faith , ●aluin . that they shoulde soundly and surely relie them selues thereuppon , and sticke to the firmnes and strongnes thereof , 〈◊〉 questi●n . without waueringe . But for so much as the whole perfection of man standeth in faith , it seemeth a very absurde thing that he biddeth to lay another foundation , as though faith were but the onely beginning of mans perfection . Answere To this question the Apostle aunswereth : when he saith that men are builded vpon faith , immediatly he addeth charity , meaninge thereby a liuely faith , and not a deade faith . Except peraduenture some man had rather take it thus : that men are then sayd to be builded vpon faith , so farre forth as they profit and increase therein , as we said before . And verely the more that faith doth growe and increase , the more it ariseth to a perfect building . After this sorte here doth the Apostle commaunde vs , to growe & increase in faith to continue in prayer , to walke accordinge to charity . L. As if hee shoulde say : L. Pelycane . you that are spirituall , giue diligence , that more and more , as liuely stones yee may bee ioyned together into the buildinge of God , cleauing fast to the sure foundation of your most holy faith . It followeth . Caluin . Praying in the holy-ghost ] C. This is the reason of perseuering , if we bee indued with the powre of the holy-ghost . As ofte therefore as mention is made of constant faith , wee must haue recourse to prayer . But because wee are wonte to pray commonly for a fashion sake , hee addeth in spyrite . As if hee shoulde say : such is the great dulnesse and slougthfulnesse of our frayle fleshe , so negligent wee are , so kay-colde and so slacke in our prayinge , that except we bee waked and stirred vp by the spirite of God , no man can pray aright , or as hee should doe . Wee are so prone by nature to mystrustfulnesse , diffidency , and fearefulnesse , that wee dare not bee so bolde to call God Father , but by the motion of the same spirite . Hence commeth this godly carefulnesse , hence this earnest desire and vehemency , hence this chearefulnes , hence this trust and confidence in obtayning our petitions , to conclude , hence commeth these groninges that cannot bee expressed , whereof S. Paule speaketh in the eyght to the Romaines verse the twenty-sixth . Therefore Iudas teacheth not without cause , that no man can pray as hee ought , except he be directed by the spirite of God .

21. And kepe your selues in the loue of God , lookinge for the mercy of our Lorde Iesus Christe vnto eternall lyfe . ●he texte .

And keepe your selues in the loue of God ] B. Seeing charity is that Glue that ioyneth and giueth as it were together into one body , ●ulling . and is that temple of God , wherein hee delighteth , wee must take good heede that we sticke together in mutuall charity one towards another , and retaine our selues in the band of vnity and concorde : A. Marlo . A. whereof much hath bene spoken in the thinges that went before . It followeth . Lookinge for the mercy of our Lord Iesus Christe ] C. Because many thinges doe intise vs to fall away from God , Caluin . so that it is a very hard thinge for vs to bee kept sounde and perfect to God to the ende , hee calleth backe the faithfull , to the remembraunce of the last day . For the only looking for the same ought to stay vs vp , least at any time wee should despayre or waxe weary of our life : otherwise wee should of necessity fainte euery moment . M. Lu● M. Here therefore is hope taught , and the crosse commended vnto vs . For the whole rase and course of our life ought so to bee framed and trayned vp , that wee should doe nothing els but looke and waighte , and fight continually for the life to come . It followeth . Vnto eternall life ] A. This is the ende and scope of all our actions and doinges . A. Mar● Caluin . C. And here wee haue to note , that onely through the merites and mercy of Christe , ( and not for any workes of ours ) Iudas would haue vs to looke and hope for the lyfe to come . For hee shall in such wise be our Iudge , that hee will haue the free benefit of redemption purchased by him , for a rule to iudge by . A. Away therefore here , Aug. Ma● with all mans merytes . For not of workes that bee in ryghteousnesse which wee haue done , ( sayth S. Paule in Tytus the thirde Chapter , verse the fifth ) but accordinge to his mercy Chryste hath saued vs . B. Therefore beholding this end , Bulling. let vs serue God in a true fayth , and in loue vnfayned .

22. And haue compassion of some , The texte seperating them .

●erus . And haue compassion ] I. After that Iudas had spoken many thinges concerninge these mockers & seducers , now againe hee teacheth the faithfull , howe and after what sorte they ought to behaue them selues , in correctinge and admonishing of their brethren , that they may bee brought backe agayne to the Lord : and that is after dyuers sortes , according as euery mans nature is . For towards the meeke and gentle , and such as are tractable and easie to be taught , wee must vse gentlenesse and lenity . But with those that are obstinate and stubburne , ●ug . Mar. wee must deale more sharply , to terrifie them and to feare them . A. This is the rule of iudgement whereof mention was made afore . First he describeth and setteth forth the nature of charity , M. Luth. M which is , to bee sory & grieued , to see certaine so miserable , blinde , & obstinate , that they haue no care at all of their soule health . A. Marlo . A. Charity surely coueteth to saue all : and therefore cannot choose but bee sory for the destruction of myserable men . Which thing wee may behold in men endued with great powre and holinesse . For Samuell not without great compassion lamented the death of Saule . 1. kings 15. verse 35. and 16. verse 1. Ieremy also most bitterly bewayled the destruction of Hiërusalem , Chap. 9. verse 1. Paule wryteth to the Philippians after this sorte . Many walke , of whom I haue tolde you often , &c. Chap. 3. verse 18.19 . and in the 2. Corinthians , 12. verse 20. I feare mee least when I come , I shall not finde you such as I woulde , &c. Our Sauiour Christe him selfe knowing perfectly the maliciousnesse and ingratitude of the wicked Iewes , drawing now neare towards Hiërusalem , could not withhold him selfe from teares . Luke 19. verse 41. It followeth . Seperating or putting difference ] B. Some doe translate it , When yee shall bee iudged . Bulling●

But whereas the participle 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 is doubtfull , the actiue signification doth better agree with the texte . If wee bee willing to help them that goe astray , the summe is this : wee must consider euery mans nature : such as are meeke , gentle & tractable , must bee gently intreated to be brought into the right way , as worthy of mercy & fauor . But if any man bee obstinate or stubburne , hee must bee sharply corrected . A. Some , Aug. Ma● not vnfitly haue tourned this participle 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , hauing offended .

23. And other some saue with feare , The text● pulling them out of the fire , hating euen the garment spotted by the flesh .

And other saue with feare ] B. As if he should say ; Bulling. it is not enough for vs to lament & bewaile the miserable estate of wicked men , vnlesse also wee giue all dilygence and earnest care to winne them to Chryste by all meanes possible , in whom there is some hope : especially settinge before them the threatenings of Gods iudgements . ●luin . C. But because to much seuerity and sharpnesse in correcting and rebukinge , most commonly is odyous , Iude doth excuse it by necessity , because otherwise they cannot bee saued , vnlesse they doe willingly and of their owne accorde follow that which is good . It followeth . Pulling them out of the fyre ] M. Hee vseth an elegant metaphor of fyre : ● . Luth. for if wee bee desirous to saue a man that is lyke to bee burned , wee doe not shewe him our finger , or nicely reache him our hande , but vyolently plucke him out with all speede that may bee to saue his lyfe : so must they bee handled that haue no care of their soule , that will not come to God of their owne accorde vnlesse they bee drawne with mighte and mayne .

Here the manner of speakinge is to bee noted in this worde ( sauing ) when it is applyed vnto men : not that the seruantes of God are authors , but mynisters of saluation .

A. Marlo . A. So and in this sence , these places of scripture must bee taken : Take heede vnto thy selfe , and vnto doctryne , and continue therein : For in so doing , thou shalt both saue thy selfe , and them that heare thee . Tymothe 1. the fourth Chapter , verse the sixteenth . Likewise Saint Iames in the fifte Chapter of his epistle , the 19. and 20. verses . Brethren ( sayth hee ) if any of you doe erre from the truth , and another conuert him , let the same knowe , that hee which conuerteth the sinner from going astray out of the way , shall saue a soule from death , and shall hyde the multitude of sinnes . It followeth . Hating euen the garment spotted wyth the flesh ] C. This place , Caluin . which otherwise would seeme obscure and darke , will bee easie enough , if the metophor bee well and plainely declared . Hee would haue therefore the faythfull , not onely to bee free from all vice and corruption , but also hee doth admonysh them to auoyde whatsoeuer is accessary thereunto , least any infection shoulde take holde of them . As if wee should haue an occasion to speake of dishonesty , wee will say that all inticementes , and prouocations to lustfull desires , must bee taken away . This will appeare more clearely , if the rest of the sentence bee supplied : that is : that wee must hate not onely the flesh , but euen the very garment it selfe spotted by the flesh , least wee bee defiled by the touching thereof . Much lesse doth hee winke at wickednesse , but willeth rather that all occasions and accessories thereunto , as they call it , may bee cleane cut of . ●ulling . B. Some will haue this to bee the sence and meaning : I would not haue you to keepe too much familiarity wyth the wycked , but to shunne their company rather , not hating the person , but the wickednesse of the man . For it commeth oftentimes to passe that when they thinke them selues false enough and in good case , sodainely through their own weakenesse and imbecillity , they haue perished together wyth them , to whom they haue beene helpfull . For the good oftentimes are ouercome of the badde . But the first exposition is more true .

The texte . 24. Vnto him that is able to keepe you free from sinne , and to present you faultlesse before the presence of hys glorye wyth ioye ,

Bulling. Vnto him that is able to keepe you ] B. This is the conclusion of the epistle gratulatory : wherein the Apostle Iude the seruant of Christe sheweth , who it is that keepeth vs from sinne , from whence commeth all our powre & strength in perseuering in well doinge , from whence eternall lyfe , euen from God doe all these things come . Caluin . C. for all our studies and exhortations are not auayleable , except the effect thereof come from the powre of God : A. Marl● A which Paule in these wordes doth euidently declare in his second epistle to the Corinthians the third Chapter , verse the fourth : Such trust haue we through Christe to God warde , not that wee are sufficient of our selues to thinke any thing as of our selues , but our sufficiencie is of God . And in the second Chap. of the epistle to the Philippians , verse thirteenth . It is God which worketh in you , both to will and to doe of good will .

C. Some bookes haue ( them ) : Caluin . if wee reade it so , then the meaning is : It is your partes and duety to indeuoure , that they may bee saued , but it belongeth to God only to performe , A. Marlo . A for so speaketh hee by the Prophet . I , euen I , ( saith hee ) am the Lord , and beside mee there is no other sauiour . Esay 43. verse the eleuenth : and 45. verse the one and twentith . Agayne , I am the Lord thy God , which brought thee out of the lande of Aegypt , and thou shalte knowe no God but mee onely , neyther is there any sauyour besides mee . Osee thirteenth , verse the fourth . Caluin . C. Notwithstanding to reade ( you ) and not ( them ) doth better agree with the text , for the alluding to the sentence that went a litle before . For after that hee had exhorted the faythfull to saue that which was lost , to the intent that hee may make them better vnderstand that all their indeuours and laboures are in vayne , except God bee the worker : hee sheweth that they cannot otherwise bee saued but by the powre of God . Howbeit in this later member , the greeke worde is otherwyse , namely , 〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉〈◊〉 , which signifieth a garding or keeping . So hee should haue a respect to the first member , when hee saith , keepe your selues . It followeth . And to present you faultlesse before the presence of his glory ] A. Paule saith , Aug. Mar. that God hath chosen vs before the foundation of the world was layde , that wee should bee holy , and without blame before him through loue . Ephesians the firste Chapter , verse the fourth . But wee can neuer bee founde to bee such , vnlesse God him selfe doe bring it to passe in vs . It followeth . Wyth ioy ] I. Heere the faythfull ought to bee of good courage to perseuere in well doing to the ende : L. Pelycane . As if hee should say , you haue great cause to reioyce and to bee glad , for the comming of our Lord Iesus Chryste : when other that seeme heere to liue deliciously in sinne for a season , shall mourne & lament .

True ioy , the ioy that euery good christian man ought to haue , hath alwayes faith annexed and ioyned with it according to this saying of Peter : whom yee haue not seene ( meaninge Chryste ) and yet loue him , in whom euen nowe though yee see him not , yet doe you beleeue him , & reioyce with ioy vnspeakable and glorious , receauing the ende of your faith , euen the saluation of your soules . The first epistle of Peter , the first Chapter , verse the eyght . Here the godly beginne their ioy , but when Chryste commeth to his last iudgement , then it shall bee fully perfected and completed .

25. To God our sauiour , which only is wise , The texte . bee glory , and maiesty , and dominion , and powre , nowe and euer . Amen .

To God our sauiour which onely is wise ] C. All creatures doe giue all the prayse and glory , of all wysedome & knowledge , Caluin . as most proper and peculiar to God alone : see the sixeteenth chapter to the Romaines , verse twenti-seuenth . Aug Mar. To God our sauiour ] A. Wee haue declared before in the twenty-fourth verse , and proued out of the scriptures , that God alone is both the author , and finisher of our saluation . It followeth . Bee glory , & maiesty , and dominion , and powre , now and euer . ] As wisedome , so also to God only hee ascribeth all glory , according to S. Paule saying in the first to Tymothe , the first Chapter , the 17. verse . To the king euerlasting , immortall , inuisible , vnto God onely wise bee honor and glory for euer and euer . Amen . And Dauid in his 104. Psalme , the 31. verse . The gloryous maiesty of the Lorde shall indure for euer : the Lord shall reioyce in his workes . It followeth .

Now and for euer . ] Although the name of God bee continually prophaned and blasphemed of the wicked , yet the godly doe euen now celebrate and set forth the glory and maiesty of the same : which is a sacrifice most acceptable vnto our God , as hee him selfe witnesseth by his prophet Dauid in the 50. Psalme , the 23. verse . Who so offereth mee thankes & praise , hee honoreth mee : and to him that ordereth his conuersation a ryghte , him wyll I shewe the saluation of God . This word ( Amen ) as it is vsuall and familiar both with Christe our Sauiour him selfe , with his Apostles , & with all the holy men of God , so it confirmeth , signeth , and sealeth vp as it were , whatsoeuer thinges haue beene wrytten or spoken by the saintes and holy men of God , inspired wyth the holy-ghost : so that wee neede not doubt of their faith , truth , and verity , but cleaue contynually , and sticke fast vnto them . The which thinge that wee may doe , God the Father of heauen graunt vnto vs , who hath vouchedsafed to call vs into the fellowship of his sonne Iesus Christe . B. To whom bee praise , Bulling. confession , and thankes giuing worlde without ende . Amen .