A method, or briefe instruction; verie profitable and speedy, for the reading and vnderstanding of the old and new Testament The one expounding the other according to the sence and meaning of our our Lord and Sauiour Iesus Christ.

By obseruing this order , you shall be able to iudge neerelie where euerie matter that commeth in your hearing doth lie in the Bible , or what scripture soeuer you shal read elsewhere . For all things profitable to our instruction and saluation is contained in the foure parts before recited : therefore marke how they are distinguished .

First , learne how the whole is diuided into 9. Periods , or stories . Secondlie , where euerie Period or storie doo begin and end in the Bible . Thirdlie , that you learne to say some thing as the holy Ghost vttereth concerning the Creation in Gen. 1 , 2 , 3 , 4. The Flood , Gen. 7 , 8. The Promise , Gen. 12. The giuing of the law , Exod. 19 , 20. The going out of Aegypt , Exod. 12 , 13 , 14. Their entrance into Canaan , Iosua . 1 , 2 , 3. Their possession , 14 , 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19. The first King , 1. Sam. 9 , 10. The Captiuitie , the booke of Daniel , 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8. Their libertie in Christ , Matth. 1 , 2 , 27 , 28. The continuance of euerie period or storie I haue laid downe at the end of euerie one such . Be sure to obserue this order .

1. From the Creation to the Flood Gen. 1. to Gen. 7 , a storie of 1656. yeares . 2. From the Flood to the promise first to Abram Gen. 8 , to Gen. 12 , a storie of 427. yeares . 3. From the Promise made to Abram to the giuing of the lawe Gen. 12. to Exod. 19 , a storie of 430. yeares . 4. From their going out of Aegypt to their entrance into Canaan Exod. 12 , to Iosua 1 , a storie of 40. yeares . 5. From their entrance into Canaan to their quiet possession . Iosua 1 , to Iudges 1 , a Storie of 7. yeares . 6. From their quiet possession to Saule their first King . Iudg. 1. to the 1. Sam. 1 , a Storie of 450. yeares . 7. From Saule their first King , to the Captiuitie . 1. Sam. to Nehemiah , a Storie of 490. yeares . 8. From their captiuitie to their libertie , these bookes , Nehemiah , Ezra , Hester : a Storie of 70. yeares . 9. From their libertie vnto Christ the euerlasting libertie : the booke of Daniel a Storie of 490. yeares .

These things being well & perfectly settled in your minde , then consider what is contained in euerie Period particularly , I meane what the Argument or Summe of euerie ●uch Storie is : whereby you shall see where●pon the Bible doth depend , what Religion was in euerie Age , the cause of the alteration : which you must doo aduisedly in this order .

1. PERIOD .

In euerie Period marke what is said of God the Creator in this order .

The Creator called himselfe in the Hebrue tongue Iehouah , whom in our language we cal God , Gen. 1 , 1. Deu. 6.4 . It is a name of wonderfull weight & vnsearchable consideration , and yet not answerable to the greatnes of his Maiestie , in respect of his deuine person and godly essence . It conteineth fiue vowells , which are the ground and perfection of all languages : for , as without the same no tongue can be distinct or vnderstood , so without the true knowledge and loue of his eternall Maiestie , no man can speake vnto him rightly : all will be but babling , or as though hee vnderstood it not . This name hath in it also 2. h. h. which in all languages are nothing els but aspirations or breathings , thereby making vp the number of 7. letters , being the full number of the Sabaoth , alluding to this saying , From him wee haue our breathing , in him we liue , moue , and haue our being . For we are his generation , Act. 17.28 . And also to teach that the praising of God is a part of the sanctification of the Sabaoth , without the which , no soule hath rest or peace with God .

Iehouah our God .

Marke the force of this word Our : It is not attributed to the Father , nor to the holie Ghost , but directly to the Sonne of the Father , who is become ours & we his , Cant. 2.16 . by taking our nature vpon him .

For the vse and interest of all his Creatures , together with the worke of redemption , he hath left this exercise for euer in his Sanctuarie , saying ;

Praise me the eternall God : which is the signification of this holy name Iehouah , assuring vs also thereby of his aeternall fauor , in whom is no shadow of change : for what he was , the same he is , and will be to come .

He hath many other names in respect of his qualitie & rich liberalitie towards his Saints , and in regard of his iustice towards the reprobate . As

Palmoni , Michael , &c. Of the same number of letters , but of three vowels , pointing closely to the vnitie of the Trinitie . The one signifieth that he numbreth & finisheth the liuings and liues of al men , that he weigheth all mens words and workes in a ballance or waight of the Sanctuarie , that he diuideth and giueth how he wil , and to whom it pleaseth him . Dan. 5.26 , 27 , 28.

Michael signifieth verie God , and sheweth that there is no other : he is God alone . Michael is only thrise repeated in Scripture , Dan. 10.21 . Dan. 12.1 . Iudg. 1.9 . There is no Angell of that name .

Wherein we are to consider 4. things . His Wisedome in creating all good . His Power in gouerning all his creatures . His Prouidence in prouiding all good things for his . His Iustice in destroying all the wicked .

In euerie storie or Period you shall see these particulars , which will further your purpose , and put you in mind of diuers other such like concerning GOD : whereby you shall bee perfect in that accompt , which is the first and principall poynt required of euerie Christian . Then obserue wheresoeuer you reade , what is spoken of GOD , whether he be

3. in one Gen. 1.26 , 27.18.2 , 3 , 9 , 10.13.16 17 , 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , 26 , 27. Ioh. 10.30 . 1. Timo. 3 , 16. Ephe. 4 , 5.6 . Or 1. in 3. distinct Father . Gene. 1.1 , 2 , 3. Matt. 3.16 , 17. Sonne . Gen. 1 , 3. Mat. 3.16 . Holie Ghost . Gen. 1.2 . Matt. 3 , 16.

The Argument or somme of this first Period .

Reade Gen. the 5. there you shall see 10. holie Fathers , which I haue laid downe in their order , in whom the Church of GOD stood , who as skilfull Musitians , did sweetly sing one song , making a heauenlie sound ouer all the world , whose liues were ended at the flood , whose holie Religion hath ende with the fire , the reward of whose labours hath eternall memorie with GOD and his Angells , which are these that followe , with their significations and yeares .

Fathers . Significations . Yeares . Adam earthlie . 930 Gen. 5.5 , Seth setled . 912 8 , Enos sorowfull . 905 11 , Kenan godly repentance . 910 14 , Mahalael praise God . 895 17 , Iared the lowly . 962 20 , Henoch the Sabaoth keeper . 365 24 , Methuselah long life . 969 27 , Lamech heart wounded . 777 33. Noah . the comforter . 950 Gen. 9.29

This number of 10. Fathers , wherin God hath measured his Church , serueth very necessarily to expound hard sentences in scripture of the same number . But you must marke that 10. sometimes standeth in good part , as in Tithes , Leui. 27.32 . Nu. 18.25 , 26 , 27 , 28. In the 10. moneth the flood abated Gen. 8.5 . God would haue spared manie thousands for 10. sake , Gen. 18.42 . &c. Sometimes 10. is taken in accompt of euill , as Numb. 14.22 . Esai . 5.10 . Againe , 10. hornes of the Beast which Daniel saw , signifieth 10. wicked persecuting Kings , Dan. 7.24 . The Pope hath 10. statelie Kingdomes to assist him , Reuel. 13.1 . Thus must you compare one 10. with another as you reade .

Now marke brieflie the storie of euerie Father particularlie , in the which you may , by comparison , expound other places of like qualitie in Scriptures .

ADam , his originall or kinred was the red earth of Moriah , nere the garden of Eden a mount in Ierusalem .

Where Isaac was offered , as a figure of Christ the holie of holiest . Gen. 22 2.

Where Sem , or Melchisedech dwelt , which place was called Salem , but vppon Isaac his offering , it was called Ierusalem . Gen. 14.18 .

Where Noahs Arke rested in the threshing place of Araunah the Jebusite . 2. Sam. 24. 16 , 17 , 18 , to 25.

Where Salomon was commanded to build the Temple . 2. Chro. 3.1 .

Where was the Oratorie of God , the law and the spirit .

Where Christ in the sulnes of time died , as a high Sacrificer .

Marke euerie Moriah as you reade , and conferre one with another by particular questions .

Adam was in soule a Saint for wisedome and will .

So are all his posteritie in Christ .

He was a King , a Prophet , and a Sacrificer .

So was Christ .

And it is certain that he beleeued the promise concerning Christ , in whose commemoration he offered continuall sacrifice , the which was consumed by fire from heauen in the allowance thereof , as was the sacrifice of Abram , &c. in the time of the Lawe . In the assurance whereof he named his wife Heua , that is to say , life . And he called his Sonne Seth , setled or perswaded in Christ . Hee brought vp his Sonnes Abel and Cain in the same profession .

By faith Abel offered a greater sacrifice than Cain , by the which he obtained witnesse that he was righteous , God testifying of his gifts . Hab. 11.4 .

God cloathed Adam & his wife with the skinnes of those beasts which hee had sacrificed .

The first promise concerning Christ .

When God had chastened the woman and cursed the serpent . He said vnto Adam , The seed of the woman shall bruse the serpents head . Gen. 3.15 .

He liued with Methusalah to instruct him in this promise , and in the right vse thereof 243. yeares as in Gen. 5.25 , 26 , 27 , 32.6.6.11.10 , 11.

He was skilfull in all Sciences the first day , and 30. yeare of age , by the vse of nature as men are now .

So was Christ at the end of Daniels last weeke 9 , when he was baptized Lu. 2.23 .

And it must needes stand by manie arguments and plaine narrations , that he fell the the same day of his creation .

His Wife was a goodlie , faire , and beautifull Queene .

So is the Wife of Christ , the Church , all glorious , and there is no spot within her .

Thus by particular obseruations , you may make your comparison fit with other places of the same sense out of the olde or new .

Read Mat. 19.4 , 5 , 6. Mark 10.3 , 4 , 5 , &c. Christ comes of Adam , Rom. 5.1 . 1. Cor. 15. A comparison betweene Christ and Adam . 1. Tim. 2. Reuel. 12.

SEth was the 3. sonne of Adam , begotten in the likenes of his Father , when hee was 130. yeare olde . All the world is bound to take instruction of him , to be setled in Christ the Rocke . All places of Scripture that import the Rocke Christ , setled faith and constancie may be reduced vnto this .

The number 130. in which he was begotten , serueth verie well to remember you of al places of the sam● number in scripture . As

Terah begat Abram , a newe Stablisher of Religion when he was 130. yeare olde .

Jaacob came to Aegipt , a Reuiuer of Religion when he was 130. yeare olde .

You shall reade seldome , or but once , in Luk. 3.38 . of Seth in the New Testament .

ENos was verie zealous and sorrowfull for the corruption of Religion and good manners , which was like to ensue vppon the marriage of the sonnes of GOD with the daughters of men , who regarded beautie and worldlie preferment , rather than the promises of life and euerlasting glorie , by seruing and praising God in true Religion .

To this you may referre the zeale of Moses , Elias , Paule , Iohn , &c. who wept for the people that sinned , and desired rather to bee razed out of the booke of life , than that so manie thousands should perish in the wrath of the Lord .

To this you may referre all vnequall and inordinate mariages , and the inconueniences that commeth thereof .

KEnan had sorowfulnes and withall godlie repentance , furnished with a care of amendment of life .

To this you may reduce all penitent sinners , as Dauid , Peter , &c.

MAhalael had a name verie answerable to that acceptable Sacrifice which the Creator imposed vppon his creation , according to the signification of his owne name : both which I haue told you .

To this may be reduced all places of thanks giuing and praising of God .

So Leah named her fourth sonne , Iudah , signisying , praise the Lord . This ought to be imitated of all men throughout the course of Religion and trade of life . Psal. 47. The reason why , is shewed Psal. 19.102 , 105.

IAred had the vertues of his forefathers , which induced him to great humilitie and lowlines .

To this you may referre all such like places , how God exalteth the lowlie and meeke . As

Joseph out of the pit of slyme , to be Lord and ruler in all the Land of Aegipt .

Dauid a poore simple Shepheard , to be a renowmed king ouer his inheritance , and Daniel & Peter , &c.

This must needes call you to remember the proud and their ouerthrow vppon the dunghill .

HEnoch walked with God in holie life , he was a man wholly dedicated to the Lord by his name & in the trade of his life , wherin was seene his fathers zeale and sound Religion in bringing him vp meete for the seruice of the great God , as Abram did Jsaac . as Anna did Samuel , &c.

He was faithfull . Read Haebr : 11.5 .

He was a Prophet . Iude. 1.14 , 15.

He is the seauenth from Adam , his yeares are agreeable with the number of the Sabaoth , putting all men in minde of the sixe dayes creation , and the seauenth dayes Rest or redemption . Seauen is an holy and an infinite number importing grace & peace by Iesus Christ . Leuiticus . 25.8 , 9 , 10 , 11. Seuen eyes in the Reuelation signifieth Gods seuen folde & incomprehensible wisedome and prouidence .

The number of 7. is also taken , manie times , for a time certaine , and ceasing in euillpart , as Nabuchadnezzar was a beast 7. yeres & no longer . The Tabernacle was 7. moneths in building , and no longer .

Sometimes 7. is in good part , and for a certeine time ceasing , as the Land of Canaan was 7. yeres in conquering .

All notable actions were done in the equall number of 7. from Moses to Christ his death by 7. seauens . Seueh fifties for the glorie of Iosephs house . Seuen seuenties for the house of Iudah . Seuen tennes for the captiuitie . Seuen seuenties to Christ .

Thus you shal make vse of seuen in al actions throughout the holie Bible .

The holie seruants of God , as a rare mark to behold , were borne in the equall number of 7. As Henoch the 7. from Adam . Heber the 7. from Henoch . Isaac the 7. from Heber . Moses the 7. from Abram . Iosua the 7. from Ephraim Ioram the 7. from Dauid .

MEthuselah hauing all the vertues and blessings of his forefathers , after his death shal haue life aeternal which his name did teach him by the signification thereof . As Adam liued 249. yeres to instruct him ; so he liued with Sem to teach him 98. yeres .

Applie this to the faithfull , as a reward of their labours in Christ .

His age was an exact number or rule of the Flood , the waters could not drowne the world while he liued .

The like may be said of Lot , that fire could not fall vppon Sodome , vntill he was entered into Zoar.

LAmech he was outwardlie afflicted by men , & inwardlie afflicted in conscience by the diuell : he was a Prophet for he spake of things manie hundred yeares past , and of the comfort that should fall out by Woah . Gen. 5.28 , 29.

A fit resemblance of the Church .

NOah found grace and fauour in the sight of God , in him was established the Couenant made to Adam .

His household , as a small remnant left in the Arke , is lest as an equall portion of the smalnes of the Church , in respect of the wicked .

The Doue , bringing an Oliue leafe , signified peace and plentie .

You may compare it wel with the holie Ghost bringing glad tidings and euerlasting ioy to the Church .

He was the 10 from Adam .

Remember 10.

Reade for Noah , Matt. 24. Luk. 17. Hab. 11. 1. Pet. 3. 2. Pet. 2.

The signification of their names being wel lincked and chained together , makes vp a Christian Sacrifice and the whole somme of Religion brieflie thus .

The Maiestie of God foreseeing the fall of Adam , gaue him a name answerable therevnto , which was Earthly , miserable , perishing , dying ▪ &c.

Adam finding the same true in him and in his posteritie , he comprehended by the light of Gods spirit , that the seed of the woman should restore him and all beleeuers into the fauour of God , and therfore he called his third sonne Seth ; which is in our language setled , perswaded , & resolued in Christ .

Seth was in his profession and trade of life as his name signified : and because he knew that to be setled in Christ cannot bee without contrition and griefe for sinne , he named his sonne Enos , sorowfull : the rather because sorowful corruption began to grow by the mariage of the daughters of men .

Enos knowing that there was two sorts of sorowe or repentance , a godly & a worldlie ; therefore he named his sonne Kenan , godlie repentance .

Kenan being setled in Christ , sorowfull for sinne , and hauing godlie repentance , he named his sonne the praise God , in Hebrue Mahalael .

Mahalael , hauing in himselfe al the former vertues , he called his sonne lared , lowlie , without the which all is sinne .

Iared , knowing that the sanctification of the Sabaoth is a degree of vertue , and a great peece of this spirituall Sacrifice , he called his sonne Henoch , the Sabaoth keeper .

Henoch , to set foorth the reward of all those excellent vertues , named his sonne Methuselah , that is , long life .

Methuselah , knowing well that the Church in the meane time should endure manie tribulations , he called his sonne Lamech , which is by interpretation , hart wounded .

Lamech , although his case , and his bretheren professing Iesus Christ was wretched and full of hart woundes , yet after a while they should reioyce , and in token thereof he called his sonne Noah , a Comforter .

Goe backward or forward , he that hath one of these vertues hath all ; they cannot bee seperated : he that misseth of one misseth of all .

He that is setled in Christ is sorowfull for his sinne ; he that is sorowfull , is godlie sorowfull vnto repentance : he that hath à godlie repentance , praiseth God in pouertie and in plentie : he that praiseth GOD , is lowlie in all estates : he that is lowlie , sanctifieth the Sabaoth : he that sanctifieth the Sabaoth , shal haue long life : he that hath these former vertues , shall be hartelie wounded in this world : but in the world to come he shall haue ioye and comfort , which no man shall take from him .

He that keepeth not the ioy of Christ in his heart , is not heartelie wounded : he that is not wounded and in afflictions here , hath no hope of long life : he that hopeth not for long life , keepeth not the Sabaoth : he that keepeth not the Sabaoth , is not lowlie : he that is not lowlie , praiseth not God : he that praiseth not GOD , hath not godlie repentance : he that hath not godlie repentance , is not sorowfull : he that is not sorowfull , is not setled on Christ the rocke , but is earthlie , miserable , perishing , &c.

Now marke who were enemies in their time .

1 Serpent a lier . Gen. 3.1 , 2 , 3 4 , &c. 2 Kain a murther . Gen. 4.1 , 2 , 3 4 , &c. 3 Lamech an adulterer . Gene. 4.18 , 19 , 20. &c

By lying , pride entred .

By pride , murther issued .

By fleshlie lust , contempt of Religion followed .

These 6. were the sinnes of the old world , the earth was corrupt , and filled with the enormitie thereof . Gen. 6.5 , 6 , 7 , 11 , 12 , 13.

Iob speaketh much of these sinners in those daies . 22.15 , 16 , 17. 1. Pet. 3.19 , 20. Jude 1. 14 , 15.

1 The Serpent was a goodlie faire creature ; but verie wise and subtill . Matth. 10.16 .

The Angells seeing the excellencie of the creation day by day , & perceiuing that they and all creatures els were made but as seruants to Adam , they presentlie vppon his creation murmured , and were not content with their estate ; but left their habitation and calling , which made GOD to reserue them in euerlasting chaines . Iud. 1.6 . wherevppon hee presentlie fell to tempt Adam , 1. Cor. 11.3 .

The head of these euill Spirits was Lucifer ; as hee was more cleare and brighter than other Angells , so he fell into a more filthie Apostacie : he was not euill by kind , but of his owne aduisement he turned out of kind : he fell willingly , as Adam from good into euill , from light into darknes : he coueted highnes not meete for him : therefore he was throwne into the lowest place : he with an infinite multitude more were depriued of their beautie and glorie . They were at the first heauenlie bodies : but vpon their fall they were turned into the qualitie of the ayre .

These were called by diuers names answerable to their kinde and qualitie .

Whereof 4. are in the 12. chap. and .9 . vers. of the Reuelation .

1 a Deuill . For that hee is a quareller , a callenger and a backbiter . 2 a Dragon . In respect of his wonderfull crueltie and speedie spoile . 3 a Sathan . For that hee is a Tempter , Matth. 4.10 . Aduersarie or enemie . Luke 22.31 , 32. 2. Cor. 4 , 4. 1. Thess. 2 , 18. 1. Thes. 3 , 5.2 . Thes. 2.9 , 10. Reu. 2.13 . 4 a Serpent . For his subtiltie and craft . 2. Cor. 11 , 3.

Behemoth , is likened to an Oxe : for that he laboureth and enforceth all his power to drawe men to destruction . Iob. 40 , 10.

Leuiathan , a great mightie fish , not to be ruled with line and hooke ; so the Diuell cannot bee meeked and tamed by the nature of man . Iob. 40.20 .

Lion , who is verie rauening , and alway sleepeth with his eyes open , most watchful and vigilant : so the diuell seeking whom he may deuoure . 2. Pet. 5.8 .

Boare , for his rooting , extirpation , vtter subuersion and destruction . Psal. 80.13

Now I will speake briefly of those Angels , which were left in heauen , and continued in their first Estate , of whom you shall read much in holy Scriptures , and of their sundrie names in respect of their seuerall & sundrie offices in the Church , and in heauen : which I pray you diligenly to marke .

AN Angell is a name of office & not of kinde . He is of a spirituall & immortall substance , and of great puritie : by reason whereof he perceiueth in him selfe all formes & shapes intelligible , wherby he is stirred to heauenly contemplations . The likenesse of GOD shineth in him . Haeb. 1.7 .

Angels haue three things in them . 1 Essence : by the which they haue beeing of puritie , of discretion , and godlinesse . 2 Vertue : by the which they haue power to vnderstand , to liue , and to continue for euer . 3 Working : by the which they are exercised to doo all things swistly , willingly , and profitably to Gods glorie , and to the benefite of his Church .

Angels called Seraphins . BEcause they are manie , they are inflamed with the cleare light and brightnesse of God : their office is to kindle and inflame others in the loue of God . This fire wherewith they are kindled ; burneth and not wasteth . Haeb. 1 , 14.

Angels are called Cherubins . A Companie or a multitude higher than the Seraphins : these haue the gift of fairnesse in the first vertue that worketh . For by the light of wisedome they be drawen into the fairenesse of GOD himselfe . Haeb. 9 , 5.

Angels called Thrones . THe Maiestie of God sitteth in and vppon these . Their offices is to set foorth GODS Iustice against vnpenitent sinners . Reuel. 1.4 . Reuel. 14.17 , 18 , 19 , 20. Psalm. 80.1 . Cherubins and Thrones are one .

Angels called Dominations . THese are aboue the rest in power , they haue Iustice in force , libertie in godlinesse , and they conforme all their actions to The rule and direction of their President . Haebr. 1 , 6.

Angels called Principalities . THeir office is to bring and reduce others to God . They are ouer other Angells . Some of them serue , and some waite . Dan. 7.9 , 10. Psal. 68.7 .

Angels called Powers . FOr that they haue power ouer euill Angels , and wicked spirites . Their office is , to keepe & comfort the Saints on the earth . These haue equal might with those Angels which are called Dominations . Reuel. 16.1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10. 1. Pet. 3 , 22.

All these are said to be cloathed with fire , and with Light , as with a garment . Psal. 104.

They are girded with a golden Girdle , signifying might and courage . Dan. 10 5. Reuel. 15 , 6.

They beare in their hands swords & scepters . A sword to rule , and a scepter to magnifie . Gen. 3.24 . Numb. 22.31 . Iosua 5 , 13. Reuel. 6.8 . warlike weapons , fighting for the Church spiritually .

They haue Trowels , Measures , and all sorts of working tooles , to worke men a new vnto God .

They haue Trumpets , for that they warne and excite men to heare the voyce of God , and to prepare themselues against the spirituall enemie . Reuel. 8 , 2.

They haue Instruments of Musique , comforting and refreshing the weake & wearied , as was signified by the Leuites . 2. Cron. 7 , 6. Reuel. 5.8 , 18 , 22.

They are likened to Horses of all coulours , to Chariots , and to Eagles , for that they are poasts and speedie messengers betwixt Christ and his Church . Ierem. 4 , 13. Zachar. 1.8 , 9. 6.1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7. Reuel. 9.16 , 17.

They are likened to Warders , and vnto Watchmen , for that they forewarne the Church of perills . Psal. 141 , 3. Esa. 21.6 , 7 , 8 , 9. Ierem. 51 , 12. Dan. 4 , 10.

They are likened to Haruesters and Laborers , for that they gather men into the Lordes Barne , as wheate . Ierem. 50 , 16. Mich. 7 , 1. Math. 9.37 , 38.

They are called by manie other names , and likened to diuers naturall things , thereby to make vs the better to discerne them , the plainelier to see them , and the easier to auoide that which maie dislike them .

Marke them well , and reduce them by particulars into memorie , which will greatly profite you .

THE particular Ages and Yeares of the ten Fathers , Gen. 5. before recited serueth as an exact rule to knowe howe long the first Storie or Period , and the world of olde did last .

The same manifesteth vnto all Nations the louing kindnesse of the Lord , who as yet in the dayes of Noah , hee gaue them , one hundred and twentie Yeares Repentance and withal the seueritie of God in making the earth voide and emptie , as it was in the beginning because of sinne : & in not suffering the posteritie of Noah to liue halfe their former yeares : which was a noate of Gods Iustice to the wicked in breaking their earthly imaginations : and a testimonie of his loue towards his elect , by hastening their kingdome and glorie .

2. PERIOD .

The Argument or summe of the 2. Period .

REade Gen. 11. there God in the number of other 10. holie Fathers , beginneth to multiplie a new Church ; ouer whom he was verie carefull and prouident , as of a peculiar and speciall people dedicated to his owne glorie , and sequestred from ill and prophane vses ; which I haue laide downe in their order , with the significations of their names and yeares , which you shall perceiue serueth to great purpose .

Fathers . Significations . Yeares . 1 Sem renowmed . 600. Gen. 11.11 . 2 Arphaxad healing . 438. Gen. 11.13 . 3 Sale peace 433. Gen. 11.15 . 4 Heber pilgrime . 464. Gen. 11.17 . 5 Peleg diuided . 209. Gen. 11.19 . 6 Regue breaking . 207. Gen. 11.21 . 7 Sarug palme trees . 200. Gen. 11.23 . 8 Nahor angrie or drie . 119. Gen. 11.25 . 9 Terah a wretch . 70. Gen. 11.26 . 10 Abram . a high father . 175. Gen. 25.7 .

Now you must learne what may be said particularlie of these Fathers .

Sem was Melchisedech King of Salem , who liued 600. yeres , who was Noahs Sonne .

SEm was a perfect figure of Christ , without father & without mother , in respect of his great age , whose kindred was vnknowne to any man , when Lot was taken prisoner , for he was before the flood , and liued a Graundfather in Abram his time of eight degrees . At the slaughter of the Kings he might well bee renowmed ; for when all Nations were at variance round about him , he was vnto them at Salem a sight of peace , he ruled with great wisedome and dexteritie , like the Sonne of God ; he outliued all that knew him . None of Chams house could resemble the Sonne of God , nor any of Iaphets house , whose Religion came from Salem .

The 2. promise concerning Christ .

SAint Paule ment when he said that Melchisedech was without father and without mother , nothing els but to call the Iewes to minde , who ( in their Storie ) was the true figure of Christ , without father and without mother . Sem liued vntill 50. yeares of Jsaac his age , to teach Religion . Blessed be the God of Sem. Gen. 9.26 .

Saint Paule chargeth men to consider of him , & to compare him with Abram , which cannot bee , if he bee indeede without father and mother . Read more Luk. 3. Haebr. 5.6.7 .

Heber was a rare man , 2. seuens from the creation , a double Henoch , he was the 4 after the flood .

So is Judah the 4. from Iaacob , of whom Christ came .

Marke alwaies the number 4. and make your comparison .

The Hebrew tongue remained in him , whence he had his name , at the confusion of tongues , which enlarged his glorie . Againe , none that euer were before him , liued after him .

In his time Babel was built , by the curse of Cham there they lost the glorie of their name , which was turned to shame . Thence they were scattered ouer the world into 70. companies , where afterwards they were in bondage 70. yeares . There their ages were againe halfed the 2. time .

To this you may referre the fall of Angells , who by pride surmounted aboue their Creator , seeking to enlarge their glorie , but thereby it was diminished greatlie .

The like may be said of Adam , who coueted to be ouer wise , became a verie foole , and coueting all , lost all .

The like of Jsrael , who not contented with the Lord , desired to be gouerned by man , had an hypocrite for their King .

Abram was a new setter vp of Religion in his time , as was Seth in the old world ; he was the 10. from Noah , and the 7. before Moses , shewing therein , that in 10. he was on earth the highest accompt , and in 7. the holiest by Christ .

Here marke 10. and 7. and conferre them elsewhere with the like numbers .

He ouercame foure Kings with his owne household .

To this you may call to mind the conquest of Iosua , who with a small companie subdued mightie Nations ; and especiallie to Christ Iesus , who by himselfe , conquered all the world and the power of Sathan to deliuer the Captiue .

He had the Promise concerning Canaan , and concerning Christ to come . God changed his name Abram , a high father , to Abraham a father of manie Nations ; declaring thereby , the vnsearchable riches and mercies of the father in Christ .

Here Ages were the third time halfed .

Reade more Ioh. 8. Luk. 16. Act. 7. Rom. 4. Haebr. 7.11 . Matth. 1.

Abram had two sonnes , Ismael and Isaac : Isaac was a sonne by the free woman , which was borne by promise , who being offered & not slaine , is a figure of Christ , who was killed , and behold aliue . Reuel. 5.6 .

Abram is a figure of God the Father , who spared not his only sonne . Jsaac is the longest liuer after Heber , and liued longer than his father , to shewe that he was the child of promise , and by relation closelie to 〈…〉 the aeternall ioy appoynted to euerie one of the same couenant . Rom. 9.

Ismael was borne of the bond woman , and both brothers hath a great relation to the 2. Testaments , the calling of some freelie of his mercie , and the reiecting of many other according to vpright iustice , which was signified by casting Jsmael and Hagar out of Abrams house . Reade Gal. 4. yet he became a Nation of 12. Dukedomes in the land of Chush .

Isaac had two sonnes at one time , Iaacob & Esau , who did import and signifie two Nations : to wete , the Jewes and the Gentiles : the one was chosen by the free mercie of God , the other left to condemnation , that the purpose of God might stand . Rom. 9.11 .

Of Iaacob which is called Israel . Reade Matth. 1. Luk. 1.2.4 . Joh. 1.4 . Rom. 9.11 . 1 Cor. 10 , 11. Gall. 6. Act. 2.13.21 .

The other Fathers are not recited in the newe Testament , nor in the olde , but onlie to prooue the line of Christ whole from Noah to Abram , of whom he should come according to the flesh .

The 3. promise concerning Christ .

IN the 10. Age from Sem , Abram liued , to whom GOD said , Jn thy seede shall all the Nations of the earth be blessed . Gen. 12.

Sem liued 150. yeares in Abrams time , to teach him in the right vse of that promise which God had made vnto him many yeres before . Gen. 11.10 to 27.

Terah was 130. yeares when he begat Abraham . 11 , 32.12.4 , &c. Act. 7.4 . and he liued vnto the 50. yeare of Jsaacs age .

Abram being 110. yeares old Gen. 21.5 . liued to teach Isaac 75. yeres after . Gen. 25.7

Isaac being 60. yeares old was borne Jaacob , Gen. 25.26 . Abram was then aliue and liued 15. yeares to teach Jaacob .

These sons of Sem with their posteritie are cast out of the holie line , who were deadlie enemies to their kindred . Gen. 10.22 , 23.

Elam their issue and posteritie Elamites , or Persians . Asshur Assirians . Lud Lidians . Aram Aramites , or Sirians .

IAphet the sonne of Noah , and his sonnes : of these were the Iles of the Gentiles , euerie man after his tongue , and familie . Genesis 10.2 , 5.

Gomer their issue or posteritie . Tartarians . Magog Turkes , Scythians . Madai Medes .

Iauan their issue & posteritie , read Ezech. 38 1 , 2 , 3 , etc. 39.1 , 2 , People of Asia and Graecia . Tuball Read Ezech. 27.12 , 13. Mesech Tiras

C Ham the Sonne of Noah , and his Sonnes . Genesis 10.6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16 , &c.

Chush their issue & posteritie . Nimrod a mightie hunter , the builder of Babel . Gen. 10.8 . Misraim Egyptians in Hebrue Misraims . Pút Blacke Moores . Canaan Canaanites , Perizites & so foorth , as Gen. 10.

Here may you see the great wisedome of GOD , by ruling the hearts and tongues of these Fathers to giue their Children such names , as might in it teach a true forme and proportion of his Church , as hee did by the other 10. Fathers before the floud : which being laid & chained equally together , maketh vp a short accompt of Faith and summe of Religion . It sheweth to all the world the prouidence of God , and it enforceth men of good conscience , to giue their children significatiue names , for imitation and examples sake .

Noah hauing found fauour with GOD , aboue manie thousand generations , & perceiuing by a spirite of Prophecie , that his sonne Sem , the eldest in accompt , should be blessed , & of great fame with God & men , he named him Renowmed .

Sem perceiuing the purpose of his father to be fallen true in him , and knowing that perfect Renowme standeth in the Sauing health of the soule , to make his faith knowen , he named his sonne Healing .

Arphaxad being thus named , to shewe his Religion , that health and saluation standeth by the perswading of Gods iustice in Christ , he called his sonne , Peace .

Sale beeing well assured that hee was at perfect peace with GOD , as all the faithfull were , and yet seeing their trouble and miserie in this world , hee called his Sonne Pilgrime .

Heber hauing many singular prerogatiues in himself , & foreseing diuision of the people for their pride in building Babel , he named his sonne Deuiding .

Peleg perceiuing that immediately vpon diuision and dissolution , comes a starting from the lawes of GOD , and a cutting or dismembring from the Church , hee named his sonne Breaking .

Regu declareth his owne staye and sound continuaunce in the Couenant , though the wicked breake and are broken off as rotten braunches : he calleth his sonne Palme Tree .

Sarug was springing and sprouting , hee was prosperous and goodly as a Palme tree among the trees of the Forrest : & although nothing could diminish the force of his faith , yet he called his sonne Drie .

Nahor beeing easilie mooued with displeasure and anger , and drie in respect of anie good fruite without the Lord , hee sawe that the sonne of such a father was to be called , Wretch .

Terah although indeed a poore miserable wretch , and subiect to corruption , because of sinne in himselfe , yet by grace saued , as by testimonie of his Sonnes name did import , whome hee named a high Father .

To euerie one of these may be called to mind all places of Scripture of like sense , and so make vse thereof : as Renowmed , Peace , Deuiding , Breaking , Palme trees for Constancie , &c.

The yeares how long these Fathers liued serueth to great purpose , otherwise the holy Ghost had not made accompt thereof so plaine .

Therefore marke well the same , and the profite will be yours greatly .

3. Period .

The Argument or summe of this Period .

REad Gen. 29 , 30. there you shall see a Church in the number of 12. of the seede of Abram , who are called in scripture by diuers names , as Vine , Garden , Vineyard , a Royall nation , a peculiar people , Kings and Priests , &c. The Maiestie of God did keepe them as the Apple of his eye , he wrote them vpon the Palme of his hands , he set them as a Signet on his finger , and he wrote their names in the booke of life .

Patriarchs . Significations . 1 Ruben The L. looked vpon my tribulation , my husband wil loue me . Ge. 29.32 2 Simeon The Lord heard that J was hated . 33. 3 Leui Mine husband will loue mee and keepe me companie . 34. 4 Iudah Praise the Lord . 25. 5 Dan God gaue sentence on my side Gen. 30.6 . 6 Nepthali Excellent wrestling , J got the vpper hand . 8. 7 Gad A companie commeth . 11. 8 Asher Blessed am J , for the daughters will loue me . 13. 9 Isachar GOD hath giuen me my reward . 18. 10 Zabulon GOD hath endowed me with a good dowrie . 20. 11 Ioseph GOD hath taken away my rebuke . 23 , 24. 12 Beniamin The sonne of my sorow . 35 , 18.

When you misse them by theyr names , you shall knowe them by theyr significations , as you read .

Read Gen. 49 , there their Father Iacob at his death gaue them seueral blessings aunswerable to their names , and withall a Prophecie in another sort , what should come vnto them in the later dayes , by giuing them these Armes and Cognizances according to their Kinred and Tribes , wherby you may know them . And the cause why he so blessed them is laid downe directly : which I pray you for your owne profit to read , and marke the Storie well .

Patriarchs . Armes . Chapters . 1 Ruben water . Gen. 49.4 . 2 Simeon a Sword . Gen. 49.5 . 3 Leui a Booke . Gen. 49.5 . 4 Iudah a Lyon . 8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12. 5 Dan an Adder . Ge. 49.16 , 17. 6 Nepthali a Hinde . Gen. 49.21 . 7 Gad a Banner . Gen. 49.19 . 8 Asher Bread . Gen. 49.20 . 9 Isachar an Asse . Gen. 13.14 . 10 Zabulon a Shippe . Gen. 13. 11 Ioseph a fruitful bough Gen. 49.22 . 12 Beniamin a Woolfe . Gen. 49.27 .

Manie times you shall reade of these Tribes not by their names , nor by their significations , but by their Armes , which you must marke , for thereby you shall knowe them .

Reade all Deut. 33. where Moses that kinglie Prophet at his death blesseth also the same 12. Tribes , ratifying also their former blessings , and enlarging the same by manie regall notes , whereby you may also knowe them , where they are dispersed in the Bible , in what sort they liued , and where they died .

Here you haue the number of 12. wherein manie excellent things were done , which you are carefully to marke , by comparing them as you reade , particularlie . First the number : As

In the Creation GOD was mindfull of these 12. Tribes before they were : for as they went to Canaan he brought them to Elim , where was 12. Fountaines . He deuided the yeare into 12. Moneths . He caused them to take 12. stones out of Iordan . There were 12 stones in Aarons breast . 12. Apostles . Thus of all the rest .

Now mark a briefe rehersall of euerie Tribe , by the obseruation whereof , you shall by comparison direct your memorie to manie other such like .

RVben lost his prerogatiue , because hee went vp to his fathers bed , therefore he was as light as water . Gen. 49.4 .

To this you may applie all places of fleshlie affections or light behauiour .

Simeon Leui. THeir wrath was fierce against Ioseph , but Leui afterward repented and shewed tender affection to Ioseph : he destroyed I dolatrie , therefore he had a blessing in Moses will . Simeon was still cruell , therefore when he came to Aegypt he was put in prison . Also his sinne with the Suhamites was great , and seeing he neuer repented , he was iustlie cut off . Gen. 49.5 , 6 , 7.

IVdah hath a prerogatiue that his brethren should praise the Lord , yet who looser than he , who lay with his daughter Thamar : wherein are manifest the gifts of grace , and not of nature : for if Iudah had been rare of godlines , then the prerogatiue of nature might serue to cause Christ to come of him . Gen. 49.8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12.

To this you may bring all places of praising God .

DAn when the Tribes are sealed Reuel. 7. is left out , wherby it is thought that Antichrist should come of him : he caused the first Idolatrie , and in this Tribe it continueth vntill the remouing of the Arke from Shiloh . Gen. 49 17 , 18.

To this you may referre all places that concerne Superstition and Idolatrie .

NEpthali , is a Hind let go , giuing goodlie words . Gen. 49.21 . which thing was performed with Baracke of his Tribe , and Deborah of Ephraim , who sang for the ouerthrowe of Sisera , at the waters of Magedda . Iudg. 4 , 6.5 .

GAd , he shall leade an Host of men , or a companie commeth . Gen. 49.19 . This was performed when Ruben , Gad and Manasses gaue an ouerthrow to the Hagarines . Iosua . 1.21 .

ASser was a Farmor , he prouided bread & pleasures for a King . Gen. 49.20 .

ISachar was contented to liue vnder tribute , like an Asse vnder two bindens , rather than by seeking glorie in resisting euill . Gen. 49.14 .

ZAbulon was a Merchant , and delighted in Shippes , he dwelt neere the riuer Tharsis where was gold . Gen. 49.13 .

IOseph was a goodlie man and a chast , he had the spirit of Reuel he had fauour with the master of the prison . Gen. 49.22 .

So had Daniel .

Ioseph his name was changed .

So was Daniels .

Ioseph was falselie accused .

So was Christ .

Thus you must remember more by particulars , whereby you may compare . &c.

There were sixe Iudges of this Tribe , by which glorie , his posteritie began to despise the Tribe of Iudah .

Ioseph was sold .

So was Christ .

BEniamin , the sonne of my sorow . Gen. 49.27 , 28. Iaacob calls him , the sonne of my right hand . Moses calls him , the beloued of the Lord . The Temple was built in this Tribe . In this Tribe was the first King , he continued one of two , when 10. fell away . Hester came of this Tribe .

So did Paule .

All the whole Storie of the Bible from Abram to Christ is contained by these , with their Actions good or euill , and their Religion .

Now marke their peregrination .

Israel was borne in Canaan . Israel liued 400. yeares in Aegypt and returned into Canaan ; from thence they were caried captiue to Babel or Babilon , whence their father Abram was called , where they liued 70 yeres . They were restored to Canaan and there died .

Adam fell in Canaan , Christ was promised in Canaan , Christ was borne in Canaan , he went into Aegypt , returned into Canaan , and there died , to deliuer Israel from their euerlasting bondage .

To this you may referre the vncertaine state of the Church in this world .

It serueth to prooue the prouidence of God , who determineth euerie mans abode , the time , the place , & the cause of his death in his euerlasting Counsell .

Enemiesintheirtime. Ismael Midianites . Iudg. 8.24 . and their race . Esau

The continuance of this Storie is sure . Galat. 3.17 .

Christ shined in Aegypt .

Iaacob liued 17. yeares in Aegypt , teaching his people concerning Christ .

Job liued in Aegypt . Gen. 47.28 . By faith he sawe Christ a farre off , which made him to offer . Job . 1.5 . and to teach his sonnes the same .

4. PERIOD .

REade Exod. 12. the going of Israel out of Aegypt towards Canaan : in which iourney you shall direct your memorie to all that was done in 40. yeares . They pitched their Tents in 42. places , whereof some were pleasant , and some vnpleasant : so is our iourney to that heauenlie house whose builder and maker is God .

Here I haue laid downe what was done in euerie standing , whereby you may compare them .

Ramases signifieth wormes meate : such is our nature , Exod. 12.37 , &c. 13.18 , 19. Mark the Passeouer which was eaten there . Reade Luk. 14. Ioh. 12.13.21 . 1. Cor. 5.11 . Reuel. 19.

Compare it with the Lords supper .

Succoth signifieth poore Cottages : so are our habitations . God directeth all mens goings . Exod. 13.21 , 22. Read Haeb. 11.1 . Pet. 2. to an heauenlie house . 1. Cor. 10. Mat. 2.

Etham signifieth hard ground : so are our worldlie commodities . Exod. 13.20 .

Maarah signifieth Bitternes : so after a little comfort wee fall into trialls againe , shewing vs that the grace of worldlie things lasteth not . Exod. 15.23 , &c. All the waters were bitter .

Elim signifieth strong harts : so God encourageth the wearied and weake . There were 12. Fountaines , and 70. Palme Trees , putting them in minde of the 70 that came out of Aegypt , and of the 12. Tribes . Exod. 15.27 , &c.

Syn signifieth Thornie : thereby GOD taught them and vs that the cares and pleasures of this life , are hinderances to life euerlasting . Exod. 16.1 , &c.

Rephidim signifieth Temptation : there there was no water , there GOD prooued them . Exod. 17.

Reade Luk. 4.5.15 . Joh. 6.7 . 1. Cor. 10. 1. Timo. 6. Phile. 2. Iam. 1. 2. Peter 2. Reuel. 3.

Sinai , signifieth Euerlasting temptation , there the Lawe was giuen 430. yeares after the promise made to Abraham . Exod. 19. Numb. 33.

Reade Matth. 22.23 . Luk. 2.16 . Joh. 1.7.18 , 19. Rom. 2.3.4.6.7.8.13 . 1. Corin. 15.6 . Ephe. 2. 1. Timo. 1. Haebr. 7.9 , 10. Iam. 24.

Which Law was deuided into

1. Morall not remoued by Time . 2. Judiciall altered Place . 3. Ceremoniall abrogated Person .

In reading of the Law consider wel these three aforesaid : marke well the difference betwixt them .

Times principall , the feasts of Sabaoths . Exod. 16.23 , 24 , to 30. Leuitic. 23.3 , 7 , 8. Sabaoths of weekes . Deut. 16.9 , to 12. Passeouer . Exo. 12. Leuit. 23.5 , 6. Deuter. 16.1 , 2 , to 8.2 . King . 23.21 , 22 , 23. Tabernacles . Leu. 23.34 , &c. to 43. Deu. 16.13 , 14 , 15 , 16 Haeb. 9.2 . Iubile yeares . Leuitic. 25.8 , 9 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 , 14 , 15. Places principall Temple . 1. Kin. 6. 2. Sam. 24.16 . to 25. 1. Cro. 3.1 . Ezech. 41. Court . Exod. 27.9 , 10 , to 18.40.8 , &c. 1. King . 7.12 . Altar . Num. 4.11 . Deut. 16.21 , 22. 1. Cron. 6 , 49. 2. Cron. 4.19 . Tabernacle . Exod. 26.1 , 2 , to 37.33.7 , 8 , to 23 , 40. Num. 7.1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5. Jos. 18.1 . 1. Sa. 22. Arke . Exod. 25.1 , 2 , 3 , to 40. Nu. 4.1 , 2 , to 15.6 , &c. 1 ki. 8.1 , 2 , to 7. Nu. 10.33 , to 36. Jos. 3.6 , to 17. 1. Sam. 4.6 , 7. Holy of holiest . Exod. 26.33 , 34 , to 37. Num. 4,4 . 1. kin. 6.19 , to 36. Haeb. 9 , 3. Persons principall . Aarons apparell . Exo. 28. Leuits office . Jos. 3 , 3. Num. 3 7 , to 11.4.2 , 20. 1. Cro. 15. to 20. 2. Cro. 7.6 . Their habitation . Iosh. 21.1 , 2 , &c. Creatures for sacrifices . Leuit. 2.2 , 3 , &c. 3 , 4 , 6 , 7 , 11.

THese particulars beeing well and aduisedly considered by Bookes and Chapters , as is laid downe , will greatly open vnto you the chiefest effects and purposes of the lawe . Withall , you shal be thereby called to minde of other such like places els where , euerie of which particulars being spiritually applied , & interpreted by the Gospel , must of necessitie establish and confirme a weak and a troubled soule .

Christ was knowen and preached in the Lawe .

The Lambe eaten Exo. 12. figured Christ most plainlie , which was promised to Abram the selfe same day 430 yeres before . Exo. 12. Gal. 3.17 , 18. In which day the Jewes returned from Babel . In which day Christ was killed , the which Moses knewe verie well : therefore he said , This day shall be vnto you a remembrance , &c. Exod. 12.14 .

Manna , Exod. 16.15 . The water out of the stone 17.6 . signified Christ . 1. Cor. 10.3 . Their offerings pointed to Christ . Leuit. 16 Numb . 19. Haeb. 9.

The Brasen Serpent Numb. 21.6 , to 10. signified Christ . Iob. 3.14 , 15. Aaron the hie Priest Exod. 28.29 . Christ Haebr. 4.14 . In Mount Sinai by plaine lawes , saying : I am the Lord thy God , which pointed to Christ , for God the Father in iustice was to them as a consuming fire . Againe , I will send an Angell before thee . Exod. 23.20 . The Angell of the Couenant saith Malach. 3.1 . S. Paule pointing to this time & to this people said , As the Gospell was preached vnto vs , euen so was it vnto them . Haeb. 4.2 .

Iotbatha signifieth a Turning away . There Chorah , Dathan , &c. rebelled . Numb. 16.1 , 2 , 3.33.34 .

Reade Act. 7. Rom. 9.13 . 2. Timo. 2.3 . Iam. 4. 1. Pet. 5.

Hor signifieth Declaring , or shewing , a Mount where Aaron died 14. yeares after he came from Aegypt . Numb. 20 , 22.33.37 . shewing the death of that perpetual Aaron , and high Priest Christ Iesus .

Zalmonah signifieth the Shadow of a portion : there they loathed Manna , &c. Numb. 21.1.5 . There they were stinged . 6. &c.

Read Ioh. 3. 1. Cor. 10. Luk. 10.

Moah signifieth of the Father , who was Lots sonne of his eldest daughter , of whome came the wicked Moabites Israel falling to Idolatrie are ouercome by them & so brought into subiection : there they commit whoredome with the daughters of Madian : there Balaac hired Balaam , &c. Numb. 27.10 , 11. &c. 33.44 .

Read Rom. 1. 1. Cor. 5.6.10 . 2. Cor. 12. Eph. 5. Col. 3. 1. Thes 4. Reu. 2.14.17 , 18. Heb. 12.

The rest of the standings seeme to no such purpose , as these .

5. Period .

Wherein consider a Conquerour . Land conquered .

IOsua the Conquerour succeeded Moses , he was one of the twelue that viewed the Land , and one of the two that beleeued . He was 67 yeares when he began , and continued 17 yeares . Moses called him Thesus , because he was to be a figure of Christ Jhesus . In him all the promises to Abram and to others concerning Canaan , was fulfilled . Moses by the Lawe shewed them that good Land , but Ioshua brought them into it : to shewe foreuer , that the Lawe bringeth no man to heauen , but Ihesus Christ .

The Land conquered , it was exceeding fruitfull , pointing to the land of the liuing . Strong people as Giants . 324. great Cities . 31. Kings : a proportion of Sathans force , of the Captiuitie in Aegipt and in Babylon .

Canaan was a place that lacked nothing which was in the world . Jud. 18.10 . Compare it with the kingdome of heauen .

It was seauen yeares in conquering , as appeareth by the words of Chaleb , saying Fortie yeares olde was I , when Moses the seruaunt of the Lord sent me from Kadesbarnea to espie the Land , &c. Iosua . 14 , 7. Looke Num. 13.27 .

The space that we came from Kadesbarnea was 38. yeares , &c. Deut. 2.14 , &c.

Adde 7. to 40. and to 38. that makes vp 85. Calebs age . Iosua 14.10 .

Heere is a comparison , as the Land was in conquering 6. yeares , and at rest the seauenth : so God in sixe daies wrought , and resteth the seauenth . This is the state of Christians , and the course of their life .

6. Period .

HEere you shall haue in the booke of Iudges by succession thirteene Gouernours , who were stirred vp to be deliuerers of the poore oppressed people of God . They were men of great faithfulnes and courage , as the Storie dooth witnesse . The sinnes of the people were such and so grieuous , as God did greatly punish by men that were twice worse than themselues . This Storie of the Iudges , serueth verie well to shewe the iudgement of God against obstinate sinners , and his mercies to the penitent . If you marke the Storie well , you shall find it full of waightie matters : and by manie particulars therein , you shal be called to remember other places of like sense and qualitie .

Here I haue distinguished the Iudges from the Oppressours , the time how long the one and the other raigned : whence the Iudges were , and who the oppressors were : as is expressed in their seuerall Stories : in which you must be perfect .

1. Oppressor . THe Philistines , the Canaanites , the Sidonians , the Heuites , and Chusan of Mesapotamia . Iudg. 3.1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8. Vnder whom they serued . 8. yeares . 1. Iudge . OThoniel of the Tribe of Iudah , deliuered Jsrael , and set them at rest fortie yeares . Iudg. 3.9 , 10 , 11. 2. Oppressor . EGlon the King of Moab was stirred vp against them , whome they serued 18. yeares , Iudg. 3.12 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 16. 2. Iudge . EHud of the Tribe of Beniamin , deliuered them , and they had peace foure score yeares Iudg. 3.17 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 , 27 , &c. 3. Oppressor . IAbin King of Canaan , and Sisera his Captaine . Hee had nine hundred Chariots of yron . Hee vexed Jsrael 20. yeares . Iudg. 4.1 , 2 , 3 , 4. 3. Iudg. DEborah a Prophetesse raigned with Baracke of the tribe of Nepthali , shee being of the tribe of Ephraim , destroyed the Armie of Sisera , & Sisera himself was slain by a a woman And Iabin the King was also destroyed . The Land had rest fortie yeares . Iudg 4.4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , 9 , &c. 5.1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 , &c. 4. Oppressor . THe Madianites preuailed against Israel , and vexed them grieuously seauen yeres . The Amalakites and they of the East : Iudges 6.1 ▪ 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 ▪ 6. Their chiefe Princes were Oreb and Zeb 7 , 25. Zeba and Zalmonah Kings of Madian 8 , 5. 4. Iudge . GEdeon of the Tribe of Ephraim , was especially called by an Angell from the threshing of wheate , to thresh and beate the enemies of Gods people : whose authoritie was miraculously confirmed . With a few he destroyed manie in number as the grashoppers . The Countrey was in quietnesse in his dayes full fortie yeares . He was called Ierubbaal . Iudg. 6.11 , 12 , 13 , &c. 7.1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , &c. 8.1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , &c. 32. 5. Iudge . ABimelech of the Tribe of Ephraim . He slew his brethren : for the which he was slaine himselfe by a woman with a stone , after he had raigned 3. yeares . Iudg. 8.33 , 34 , 35.9.1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 6 , &c. 6. Iudge . TOla of the Tribe of Jsachar , hee iudged Israel twentie and three yeares . Iudges 10.1 , 2. 7. Iudge . IAir of the Tribe of Manasses , a Gileadite , ruled Israel twentie two yeares . Iudges 10.3 , 4 , 5. 5. Oppressor . THe Philistins and the Ammonites vexed and oppressed Israel 18. yeares . Iudges 10.6 , 7 , 8 , 9. 8. Iudge . IEpthe of the Tribe of Ephraim , deliuered Israel , and ruled them in peace 6. yeares . Iudg. 11.1 , 2 , 3 , &c. 12.1 , 2 , &c. 9. Iudge . ABesan of Iudah deliuered them from their enemies , and kept the Land in quietnes seauen yeares . Iudg. 12.8 , 9 , 10. 10. Iudge . EGlon of the tribe of Zabulon iudged Israrael 10. yeares . Iudg. 12.11 , 12. 11. Iudge . ABden of the Tribe of Manasses , ruled Israel in peace eight yeares . Iudges 12.13 , 14 , 15. 6. Oppressor . THE Philistines vexed them sore fortie yeares . Iudg. 13 , 1. 12. Iudge . SAmpson of the Tribe of Dan was made their King or Captaine after a strange and most miraculous sort , and continued most triumphantly iudging Israel twentie yeares . Iudges 13.3 , 4 , 5 , 6. &c. 14.1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , &c. 15.1 , 2 , 3 , 4. &c. 16.1 , 2 , 3 , 4 , &c. 13. Iudge . HEli of the Tribe of Leui , deliuered Israel and preserued them in peace 40. yeares 1. Sam. 1 , 2 , 3 , 4.

The Iudges continued in Storic most sure and certaine 450. yeares , reckoning withall the yeares of the Oppressors . Act. 13 , 12.

If you marke the particular Storie of these Iudges and Oppressors , it will not only make you perfect in this booke of Iudges : but also by comparison direct you to manie more bookes for matter of like qualitie .

7. Period .

Here J will speake brieflie and particularlie of the Kings .

SAule signifieth , desired of the people ▪ he was of the Tribe of Beniamin , which was a great prerogatiue to that Tribe beeing the least and the last : he was an hypocrite , and an open persecutor . 1. Sam. 10.13 , 18 , 19.20

DAuid beleeued God , and his kingdome was reckoned when the Arke was recouered to Judah at Easter . So Christ at Easter was proclaimed King generall : he was of the Tribe of Judah , of the root of Iesse borne in Bethelem . He killed a Beare , a Lyon , and a Philistin that defied all Israel . Herein he is a figure of Christ . He had manie enemies , therein he is a figure of the Church . 1. Sam. 16 , 17. Dauid was vpright , except in one thing . 1. King . 15 , 5.

SAlomon signifieth Peaceable : so was his kingdome : for his wisedome and order in Religion he was a figure of Christ : he was extreamelie wicked . 1. King . 11 , 4.5 . Yet he was saued . 2. Sam. 7 , 13.14 . Heerein he was a figure of the Church .

He laid the foundation of the Temple in Moriah , 2. Chro. 3 , 1. where Adam was created , where Isaac was offered , Genesis 22.2 . where Christ died , where afterwards the holie kingdome was deuided into 2. parts , 1. King . 12. according to the Lords words vnto Salomon . 1. King . 11.11 , 12 , 13.14 , 15. But after 490. yeares expired , it was thrown together againe , as in Ezech. 37.16 , 17 , 18. &c.

Thus haue I distinguished the Kings in their order as they succeeded , who were wicked , who were godlie , and what Prophet , one , or mo was vnder euerie King , whereby the bookes of the Kings being laid with the Prophets , the one expounds the other plainlie and easilie , if you marke what sinnes the people committed , what happened to them or to their Kings , and what not , whereof the Prophets did by particulars speake of .

Kings of Judah .

REhoboam succeeded Salomon . The Tribe of Iudah , and the Tribe of Beniamin claue to him : thence it was called the kingdome of Iudah , his throne was at Ierusalem : he was 14. yeares when he began to raigne and continued 17. yeres 1. Kings 12.1 , to 25. 21 , he and his people were wicked . 22.

Sesack King of Aegypt came in the fifth yeare of his raigne and spoyled Ierusalem , and the Temple , and caried away their treasures . 1. King . 14.25 , 26 , 27 , 28. He died 31.

Abia his sonne raigned 41. yeares , ye was godlie . 1. King . 15.9 , 10 , &c.

Asa his sonne raigned 41. yeares , he was godlie , 1. King . 15.9 , 10 , &c.

Ahaziah raigned 1. yere . 2. King . 8.25 , 26 , wicked . 27. Iehu slewe him 9 , 27. he is also called Ochosias his mother Athalia the daughter of Omri king of Israel

Elisha prophesied , 2. Kings 8 , 24. &c. 9. &c.

Athalia his mother raigned sixe yeares , she slewe all the Kings sons sauing Ioash who was hid from her 11 , 2. she her selfe was slaine . 11. 3 , 16.

Ioash when he was 7. yeares old 11. 17 , 18 19 godlie , and the people , he raigned 40. yeres 12 , 1. &c.

Amasiah his Sonne raigned 29. yeres . 2. K. 12 , 21.14 , 2. slaine 14 , 19 godlie 14 , 3.

Ahasiah or Vziah raigned 52. yeares 14 , 21 godlie . 15 , 2. 3. 4. died , 7.

Esai prophesied .

Hosea , Amos.

Iothan his son raigned 16. yeares , 15 , 7. godlie . 34. 35. 36.

Micha , Osea , Esai prophesied .

Ahaz his sonne raigned 16. yeares . 2. King . 15 , 38. his people wicked . 16 , 2.3 .

Nahum , Esai , OseaEzec . Micha . prophesied .

Hezekiah his sonne raigned 29. yeres , 2. K. 16 , 20.28 , 2. died 20 , 21. godlie .

Esai , Osea , Micha , prophesied .

Senacherib came vp against Iudah and Ierusalem & tooke them 18 , 13.

Esai prophesied . 19 , 2

Manasses , Hezekiah his sonne raigned 55. yeares , he began at 12. wicked . 1. King . 21. he repented . 2. Chro. 33.

Jn the 3 yeare of his raigne Esai was Prophet .

Abacuck in the 36. yeare of his raigne prophesied .

Ammon his sonne at 22. yeres began , and raigned two yeres wicked . 2. King . 21 , 19. &c

Iosiah his sonne at 8. yeares olde began , and raigned 31 yeares godlie . 22 , 23.

Pharo Necho king of Aegypt slew him . 29.

Zephania prophesied .

Ieremie began in the thirteene yeare of his raigne .

Zephaniah in the 20 yeare , Abdias in the 26 yeare .

Iehoaz his son began at 23. yeare , and raigned three moneths wicked .

Pharo Necho imprisoned him , & set the land to tribute . 2. King 23 , 31. &c. He placed

Eliakim in his stead , and changed his name into Iehoiakim , he was 11. yeares vnder taxes to the King of Aegypt wicked , after that the time of their captiuitie came , spoken of 20 , 17. 23 , 27. at Babel . There Ieremie , Ezech. Dan. prophesied . Esai .

King of Babel made Mattamiah his vncle king in his steade , and changed his name Zedechia , when he was 21 yeares olde , he raigned eleuen yeares wicked : he rebelled against the King of Babel : in the 9. yere of his raigne the Citie was besieged , he pulled out his eyes , bound him in chaines , and burnt vp the citie . 2. King . 24 , 25.

Ieremie his prophesie is accomplished . 25 , 11.

Ezech. Dan. Hagg. prophesied .

Kings of Israel .

IEroboam was the other K. ten Tribes held with him , thence it was called the kingdome of Israel , whose seate was at Samaria , 1. King . 12.12 , 13 , 16. he & his people were wicked . 1. Kin. 12.26 , 27 , 28 , 29 , &c. Hee raigned 20. yeares . Here is a proportion of the Church of Antichrist . ten against 2 :

Nadab his Sonne raigned two yeares . 2. King . 14.20 . he was wicked 15.25 .

Achab his Son raigned wicked . Iesabell his wife 1. Kin. 16.28 , &c. Eliah prophesied . 1. K. 17.18.19.20.21

Micha prophesied , 1. King . 22.9 , 14 , 15.

Achab slaine 34 , 35.

Ahaziah raigned two yeres . 1. King . 22. 41 , 51. wickedlie . 52. 2. King . 1.1 , 2 , 3. died . 17.

Eliah prophesied . 3 , 4.

Jehoram the Sonne of Achab raigned because he had no sonne 2. King . 1 , 17.12 , yeres 3 , 1.

Eliah is taken vp 2 , 1. &c. and 3. yeare of his raigne .

Elisha prophesied . 2. King . 3 , 14. Kings of Aram besiegeth Samariah . 6 , 24. hee was hurt and died 9 , 24.

Iehu the Sonne of Iehosophat is annointed King by the Prophet Elisha . 2. King . 9 , 1. &c he slaieth Iehoram King of Israel according to the word of the Lord . 1. Kings 21 , 13. and Ahaziah king of Iudah , 2. K. 9 , 27. he slew Iezabel & all Achabs brood 10. &c. godlie : He died hauing raigned 25. yeares 36.

Iehoahaz his sonne raigned 17. yeares , 13 , 1. wicked , and so died . 2. 9.

Iehoash his son raigned 16. yeares 13 , 10. wicked . 11.

Elisha died the third yere of his raigne 13 , 20.

Ierusalem is ransacked the second time : the same Iehoash took Amasiah King of Iudah , brake the walls , carried awaye their treasures , died . 2. Kin. 14 , 13. &c.

Ionah prophesied .

Jeroboam his sonne raigned 41. yeres , 14 , 23. wicked , 24. died . 29.

Ionas , Amos prophesied .

Zachariah his sonne raigned sixe moneths 8 , 15. wicked . 9.

Ionah prophesied .

Shallum the Sonne of Iabesh conspired against him , he raigned a moneth . 15.10 , 11 , &c.

Mehanaen killed him , and raigned ten yeares wicked . 15. 14 , 15 , &c.

Pekahiah his sonne raigned two yeares wicked . 15 , 23. 24.

Pekah his captaine raigned twentie yeres wicked . 15. 25 , 27.

Hosea slew him , & raigned 9. yeares 15 , 30. 17 , 1. wicked .

Salmanaser king of Assurd besieged Samaria three yeares , & subdued them & the King . 2. King . 17. &c. 18.9 , 10 , 11.

8. Period .

HEre all the world may see the vprightnes of Gods iustice in the punishment of sinne , euen in his owne deare people , by giuing them ouer into the hands of such cruel Kings as would not spare them whiles they were vnder their gouernment . And here is set foorth verie clearelie the riches of his grace , and the vnspeakablenes of his mercies , in stirring and raising the hearts of those beastlie and vnnaturall kings to lenitie , to fauour , and to liberalitie towards them , ( as he did to the Aegyptians to lend them costlie vessells and rich iewells ) whom they had before most bitterlie ransacked and vnnaturallie robbed . Heere you shall see a true proportion of the Church of Antichrist , whose earthlie glorie reached vnto the heauens , and whose dominions mounted ouer all : yet their ende is with a flood or with fire , destruction irrecouerable . And who seeth not in this booke the wonderfull prouidence of GOD , and the worke of his aeternall spirit in Daniel , recording most exactlie all that was done and spoken during their 70. yeres captiuitie , and whatsoeuer else was to be performed thence foorth to Christ .

In this Booke of Daniel are two speciall things to be marked .

The one , what Kings ruled in the seuentie yeares .

The other , what Kings ruled thence vnto Christ .

Three kings during the captiuitie . Nabucadnezzar . Dan. 1 , 2 , 3 , 4. Euilmerodach . 2. Kin. 25 , 27 , Balthashar . Dan. 5 , 8 ,

Nabucadnezzar sawe in a vision a great Image , whose glorie was excellent , and the forme terrible . Dan. 2 , 31.

His head of fine gold . 32. His breasts and armes of siluer . 32. His bellie and thighes of brasse . 32. His legges of yron . 33. His feete part of yron and part of clay . 33.

The head of Gold .

NAbucadnezzar a King of Kings , to whom GOD gaue power , strength and glorie . Daniel 2.37 , 38. For his greatnes he is compared to a Tree , whose height reached to the heauens , &c. Dan. 4.16 , 17 , 18. Dan. 7 , 4. seeth this great King in a dreame as a Lyon , with Eagles wings pluckt off : it was lifted vp and set vpon his feete as a man , and a mans heart was giuen him , signifying his vnnatural affections and his crueltie . The other two Kings are referred in comparison to this first King . Who Raigned iust 45. yeares , as appeareth thus . He tooke Iehoiachin King of Iudah in the 8. yeare of his raigne .

Euilmerodach his sonne who succeeded him , lifted vp Iehoiachin out of prison when he had so laine 37. yeares .

So you must put eight yeares in which Nabucadnezzer raigned , to thirtie seauen yeres in which Iehoiachin was raised vp , that makes vp iust 45. yeares the whole raigne of this first King .

Euilmerodach raigned 22. yeares .

Baltashar raigned 3. yeares . Dan. 8 , 1.

Thus you see plainlie the 70. yeares fullie accomplished in the particular raigne of these three Kings , according to a prophesie . Ieremie 25 , 12 , 27 , 7.

Now the head of Gold is gone off and quite taken away . The Kings of Babel are extinguished , and the 70. yeares expired .

9. Period .

DAniel vnderstanding that the seuentie yeares in the desolation of Jerusalem were accomplished , he turned his face vnto the Lord God , towards the Citie of Ierusalem and the holie Mountaine confessing the sinnes of the people , & praying that his face might shine vppon his Sanctuarie , which had so long laine wast and desolate , prescribed and foretold by Moses , Leuit. 26 , 40. &c. 1. King . 8 , 46 , to 54.

Whiles he was yet speaking vnto GOD the Angell Gabriel came fleeing about the time of the euening oblation , saying : Seuentie weekes are determined vpon thy people and vpon thy holie Citie to bring in euerlasting righteousnes , Dan. 9 , 24.

Here is laid downe a plaine and an easie accompt of all the yeares from Daniels vision 9 , 21. at the Edict , vnto the death of Iesus Christ the Prince of Peace , which is very direct , if you marke it .

Euerie weeke hath seuen daies . The Angell meaneth for euerie day in the weeke a yeare , seuen daies seuen yeares , after the reckoning of the Iubile yeare . Leuit. 29.8 , 9 , 10. The whole is 490 yeares .

The same Angell through the mercifulnes of God , for the more plainnes and perspicuitie , deuideth the same seuentie weekes into three parts , after this manner , in Daniel , 9 , 25.

The first part , from the going foorth of the commandement that the people Israel should bee freed in the first yeare of Darius to build and finish the Temple at Ierusalem , shall bee seuen weekes : that is to say , 49. yeares .

The Jewes confesse 46. yeares in which the Temple was a building , Ioh. 2 , 20. In the other first yeare they were hindred from their worke . Ezra . 4. Nehemi . 4. In which three yeares of trouble Cirus raigned , Dan. 10.1 , 2. Yet according to the time prefixed it was finished . Ezra 6. Nehemias 7.8.9.10.11.12.13 .

Armes and breasts of siluer .

Part of the Image which Nabucadnezzar saw Dan. 2 , 39. are 10. Kings of the Medes and Persians , who were 130. yeares continuance after the Captiuitie , which are these .

Cyrus , or Darius . Artaxerxes , or Cambises . Assuerus or Darius . Histaspes . Zerxes .

These raigned 29. yeares . In the 20. yeare of the raigne of Artaxerxes or Darius , the Temple was finished being full 49. yeares where they troubled Jsrael .

There were other Kings that made vp the 130. yeres before mentioned after the building , which were these .

Ochus . Artaxerxes . Ochus . Arses . Darius the Persian .

These goodly Kings like armes & breasts of siluer , Daniel seeth them like a Beare with three ribbes in his mouth , which said , Rise and deuoure much flesh . So did they indeede deuoure the Saints of GOD . Daniel . 7 , 6.

Now the armes and breasts of siluer are cut off : Kings of Madai and Paras are ended .

2. Part of Daniels diuision of Time . 9 , 26. thus .

THreescore and two Weekes shall bee a troublesome time , after the which the Prince of peace , the King of glorie , and the Messiah shall be slaine : euen he shall destroy the Citie and the Sanctuarie .

Jn this time the people of GOD suffer great persecutions .

The bellie and thighes of Brasse .

Doth signifie King Alexanders power .

TO this belongeth the vision of Daniel , 8.3 , 4. A Goate Buck with ahorne , which being broken off , comes out in stead thereof foure heads , signifying Alexanders foure Captains , fighting two to two : which two first is also the legges of yron & claye , and their successours : and the fourth Beast with tenne hornes . Alexander continued 6. yeares .

His legges of Jron .

IS the Beast which Daniel sawe 7 , 7. verie fearefull and strong with yron teeth burst in peeces , and stamped the residue vnder his feete , who was the fourth kingdome in the earth subduing all to himselfe . 23.

The ten hornes are ten Kings stronger than the Iewes that shal rise out of Siria and Aegypt , whereof one is said to bee a little horne , 8 , 7 , 11. boasting and bragging against the most highest .

Iron like 1. S : Nicator . 2. A : Soter . 3. A : Theos . 4. S : Callicus . 5. S : Ceraunus . 6. A : Negas . 7. S : Philop. 8. A : Epimanes .

Iauan . kings of Aegypt yron like to make vp the ten hornes .

9. To : Lagie . 10. To : Philodelphus .

His feete part of yron and part of Clay .

Were ( Jauan ) Kings of Babel clay like , in number 12.

These Kings ruled as Beasts most beastlie and vnnaturallie , and as yron verie strong and inuincible two hundred ninetie foure yeares to Cleopatras death , who confirmed Herode in Judah .

3. Part of Daniels deuision of Times .

Hee shall confirme the Couenaunt with manie for one weeke : and in the middest of the weeke hee shall cause the Sacrifice and Oblation to cease . Dan. 9 , 27.

THese wordes hath plaine relation to Iesus Christ his Office and death , for One weeke , as in the accompt aforesaid standeth for seauen yeares , a yeare for a day .

In the middest of the same Weeke , that is to saye , in the middest of this last seauen yeares , Christ was baptized , and did preach this last halfe seauen , confirming his authoritie with miracles , signes and wonders , vntill the same three yeares , and halfe the ende of Daniels weeke was ended .

In which he suffred his passion according as it was before decreed manie thousande yeares in the counsell of his Father , who testified of him vnto all Nations saying , This is my welbeloued Sonne , in whome I am well pleased .

Now hauing generally , and particularly compared the olde Testament with the new : you shall in another sort plainly learn how to compare the New Testament with the Olde .

Legall . Ioh. Gen. Mat. Exod. Luk. Leuit. Mar Num

Historicall . act 1. Iosua 2. 3. 22 27 act 4. Iudg. 8. 9. 12 21 act 10 Ruth 13 14 18 22 act 14
1. Sa.

2. Sa.
16 17 23 24 26 act 15
1. K.

2. K.
act all
1. Cr.

2. Cr.
act 10 Ezra 17 19 20 27 act 10 Nehe 17 19 20 27 act 25 Hest. 26

Sapientall . Iames. Iob. 1. Pet. 2. Pet. 1. Iohn 2 Iohn 3. Iohn Iude. Haebr . Psalm. Galath .
Prou.

Eccl.
Ephes. Philip. Colloss. 1. Thess. 2. Thess. 1. Timo. 2. Timo. Titus . Phile. Roman . all . Cant.

Propheticall . Reuel . Daniel .

The other Prophets are to bee compared with the Lawe , which is enlarged by time , by place , and by persons , either past , present or to come , in this order , Booke and Chapter .

Propheticall . Legall . Esay . 1 , vnto 28.6 , Deut. 1 , 1. 40 , to 25. Exod. 18 , 4 , 3. 40 , 27. to 16. of 41. Gen. 12. 42 , 5 , to 21. Gen. 1 , 27 , 6. to 14. of 28. Exod. 1 , 1. 43.22 . to 23 , of 44 , Leuit. 1. 54 , 1.10 . Gen. 6 , 8. 49.15 . to 5. of 51. Deut. 7 , 12. 54 , 11. to 22. Deut. 11.26 . 51 , 12. to 12. of 52 , 60. Deut. 16 , 18. 61 , 16. to 10. of 63 , 26.7 . 55 , to 9. of 56 , 29 , 10.

Propheticall . Legall . Ierem. 1 , 2 , 3. to 26. Num. 30 , 2. 7 , 6. to 2 , 8 , 33 , 2. 16 , 19. to 14. of 17. Leuit. 6 , 1. 32 , 6. to 28. 26 , 3. 34 8. to the end . 25 , 1. 16 , 13. to end . Exo. 21 , 1. Ezech , 22 , to 23 , 15. 10 , 1. 28 , 25. to 30. Leuit. 16 , 43 , 10. to the end . Exo 6 , 2. 46 , 13. to the end . 20 , 20. Hosea 2 , 1. to 22. Leui. 20 , 1. 7 , to 15. of 12. Numb. 1 , 14 , 2. to the end . Gen. 28 , 10. Amos 2 , to 9. of the 3 , Deut. 29.10 . 8. from 21. to end Gen. 37 , 1. Obad all Leuit 29.1 . Zach. 2 , 14. to 8.3 , Gen. 32 , 2. Mich. 3 , 6 , to 9 , of 6. Numb. 8 , 1. 22 , 2.

These Bookes and Chapters of the olde and new Testament doo not agree by comparison in all respects , but in some particulars . And therefore I haue laid downe briefly the Argument of euerie Book in the new Testament , by the which you may the more easilie perceiue the like in the old , and make your comparison fit .

The Argument of S. Mathew . 1. The incarnation of Christ . 1 , 2. 2. The office of Iohn Baptist. 3. 3. The doctrine and miracles of Christ . 4 , 5 , 6 , 8 , 9 , 11 , 13 , 14 , 15 , 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21. 4. The names and offices of the twelue Apostles . 10. 5. The reproofe of ill life . 7 , 12 , 14 , 16. 6. The holy Supper instituted . 26. 7. The Passeouer and resurrection . 27 , 28.

All 4. Euangelists agree in this , which is a strong proofe of the truth and great dignitie of Gods Word , by the length of time , and distance of place in which it was written . One is more briefe than the other , and one handleth some thing larger than the other .

1. Mathew the humanitie of Christ , eight yeares after the ascension of Christ . 2. Marke is briefe in all : hee sheweth the ende of the law , and deuideth the Kingdome , 10. yeares after Christs ascension . 3. Luke the Office of Christ , by abolishing the workes of the lawe , fifteene yeares after Christ . 4. Iohn the diuinitie of Christ , and the seruice of God in spirit 32. yeres after Christ .

THe Author of the 14. Epistles was Paul , of the Tribe of Beniamin , who was honorable by birth , in respect whereof his parents named him after Saul the first King of Israel . He was called Paule in respect of his notable actions in conuerting Paulus Sergius the great Consull , as appeareth Act. 13. And for another cause vsed in change of Religion , which I rather allow , to change their names , as Ioseph was called Saphnat , Daniel Balthasar , Ananias Sidrac , Azarias Abednago , Misael Mesac . So Saule in the Lawe , Paule in the Gospell . Hee was brought vp exquisitely in the Law with Gamaliel , Act. 22. he liued verie orderlie after his conuersion . He wrote these Epistles in order as foloweth .

The Argument to the Rom.

THe Romanes were Iewes and Gentiles embracing Christ in Rome , among whome were manie false teachers , which mooued S. Paule to write exhorting them to take heed thereof , and to increase in the knowledge of Christ , the dignitie of workes in the Iewes & in the Gentiles , of sinne , of faith , of grace , of iustification by faith , and in conclusion , of salutations .

The Argument of the 1. Cor.

THe Corinthians had their originall of Corinthus , who built that citie , it was a place greatly frequented . In that Citie was the Temple dedicated to the Goddesse Venus . There was that great notorious whore Lais , spoken of ouer all the world ; and there manie other whores : yet in this Citie God had his Church . Saint Paule continued there a yeare and 6. months preaching . But when he departed into Syria , manie false teachers entred in , and taught , that whoredome , ryor , drunkennesse , &c. was lawfull , matrimonie vnlawfull ; and they denied the resurrection . S. Paule hearing of this , wrote this Epistle to withdraw them from all these euills by particulars , with exhortations to remain in the doctrine he had taught them .

Argument of the 2. Cor.

HEE excuseth his long absence by diuers troubles which hindred him , he willeth to excommunicate him that was taken in adultrie , & he cleereth himselfe of all blame towardes them , hee sheweth difference betweene the spirite and the letter , betweene the olde Testament and the new .

Argument of the Gallat.

THe Gallathians were people of Asia , after his departure thence , false teachers pressed in , & taught that the Ceremonies of the Lawe were to be kept , and they spake euil of this holy Apostle thereby to deface his doctrine . Which mooued him to write vnto them , discharging himselfe for the credit of his calling , & confirming his doctrine , with the ouerthrow of their false opinions .

Argument of Ephesians .

EPhesus was a famous Citie by the Sea of Ionius , where was a Temple dedicated to the false Goddesse Diana . S. Paule at his first comming stayed little there , but at the second time he stayed 3. yeares : perceiuing that God had manie there to be saued euen among the Witches , Sorcerers , Inchaunters , &c. Whereby the mercie of God appeared more abundantly . At his departure he left among them Elders , and Timothie as their Bishop . This Argument agreeth nearely with the Romanes and Gallathians .

The argument of the Philippians .

PHilip Macedon was the originall of that Citie : they had domesticall troubles and diuers other losses for the Testimonie of Christ , wherefore he exhorteth them to patience and watchfulnesse ,

The argument of the Colloss.

THe Collossians were a people of that great Citie Collossa . Saint Paul was neuer with them . They were taught by Epaphras , Onesimus and Titichus . S. Paule heard that they were troubled with the Iewes about Ceremonies , and with the Gentiles about wordes and subtill Philosophie . Wherefore hee wrote vnto them to confirme them in that they had learned concerning Christ , and to confute the contrarie .

The Argument of 1. Thess.

THessalonica was a famous citie of Macedonia , whence the people had their name . He was among them but three Sabboths by reason of the Iewes . Hee sent Timothie vnto them , by whom he vnderstood of their constancie . Whereupon hee wrote vnto them , exhorting them to patience , to loue , to constancie , and to consider well of the resurrection .

The Argument of 2. Thess.

HE excuseth his long absence , sheweth the manner of the resurrection , & the comming of Christ : he dehorteth from curious questions .

The argument of 1. Timothie .

TImothie his Father was a Graecian , his mother a Iew , which was the cause that hee was not circumcised in his infancie according the lawe . His mother Eunica and his grandmother Loida were verie godlie , wherein they brought him vp . Saint Paule his Master sent him in the Lords busines to diuers places : in the ende he was left at Ephesus as their Bishop : to whom he wrote this Epistle about the choyce of Pastors in the Church .

The Argument of 2. Timothie .

TImothie did greatlie mourne after Paule : he therefore did write to comfort him , and withall to shewe him how he was holden in prison , which was the cause that he came not to Ephesus according to his promise .

The Argument of Titus .

TItus was a Graecian borne , Saint Paule was his master , who left him at Creete to constitute Ministers in euerie Parish , and to reforme their manners . Titus was a young man , therefore his master wrote this Epistle that he should doo nothing rashlie . What kind of Pastors were to bee allowed , and what not .

The Argument of Philemon .

PHilemon was of Collossentia , a rich man , a godlie man , and a liberall , he had a seruant called Onesimus , who departed from him and stole his money : when he heard S. Paule preach , he beleeued in Iesus Christ , and he confessed his fault . Wherevpon Saint Paule wrote to his master , exhorting him to forgiue his seruant .

The Argument of the Haebrues .

THere are diuers opinions concerning the authoritie hereof . Some say it is not Canonicall : some say it is not Paules writing : some say it is Saint Paules Epistle , but not Canonicall , because ( say they ) there is no mention of his name , and the stile is contrarie . The trueth is by the best and most godlie learned , that it is Saint Paules writing and Canonicall , because the matter is consonant to the rest of his Epistles . The Graecians did so allow of it , and the same was confirmed in the Councell of Nicen. Nicephorus saith , that it was written in Haebrue by Saint Paule , and translated into Greeke by Saint Luke , who altered the stile and method . Iraeneus who was Policarpus scholler saide the same , the trueth thereof being receiued from Saint Iohn , who was Policarpus master : such was the obstinacie of the Iewes resisting the doctrine of Christ . That gaue occasion to Saint Paule to write , exhorting them from the hardnes of their hearts : he magnifieth Christ aboue the Prophets , Moses , Aaron , Leui , and all other offices , who fulfilled the prophecies , accomplished the lawe , and offered a more perfect sacrifice than they all . Saint Paule speaketh of certeine in the 6. Chapter , and 10. who had reuolted from the knowne trueth wittinglie , willinglie , stubbornlie and presumptuouslie , that were not by the word of God to bee saued , therefore he altereth much of his stile and phrase , especiallie at the beginning and ending .

The Argument of Iames.

IN the 10. of Mathew mention is made of two Iames , the one was the sonne of Zebedeus , the other , the sonne of Alpheus . It is certaine the Author of this Epistle was Iames the sonne of Alpheus , who is in that Chapter called Lebbeus and Thaddeus . He is called the brother of Jude and the brother of our Lord , Gal. 1 , 19. Hee was the sonne of Mary Cleophas , who was sister to the Virgin Mary . It is the phrase of Scripture to call Cousens , Bretheren . This Epistle is called Catholicall , because it is to all people . The summe thereof is to instruct all men how to liue , how to beleeue : He setteth out the conuersation of those that are regenerated , of faith , of patience , and of their teachers .

The Argument of 1. Peter .

THis Peter was by all consent the author of this Epistle . He was called Simon the sonne of Iohn the Fisher : Christ named him Cephas , which is Peter . Mark . 3. he was one of the Apostles and the chiefest for diuers causes . He speaketh of workes after regeneration , as Saint James doth : he descendeth into the dueties of each degree , and of the conuersion of the Gentiles . It was written vpon the occasion that Siluanus being long with Saint Paule , and trauailing to Babilon met with Saint Peter , who deliuered him this Epistle generall , to Gentiles and Iewes .

The Argument of the 2. Epistle of Peter .

HE exhorteth all men from day to day , and from degree to degree , to encrease in the workes of regeneration , to beware of false teachers , the state of the last times . He thought his death to bee at hand , wherefore he wrote to the glorie of his master Christ . 2. Pet. 1.14 , 15.

The Argument of the 1. Epistle of Iohn .

THis Iohn was one of the foure Euangelists , he was the sonne of Zebedeus , beloued of Christ and wrote the Reuelation . He exhorteth to faith , to brotherlie loue , to trie and approoue the spirits , to auoide false teachers , hypocrisie , small offences , and to deck themselues with godlie liuing .

The Argument of the 2. Epistle of Iohn .

HErein he handleth mutuall loue , the dutie of widowes , to beware of false Teachers , a way to know them , and with whom is no fellowship laid downe . He wrote especiallie to a certaine godlie widowe , who with her children and household laboured after Christ .

The Argument of the 3. Epistle of Iohn .

IN this Epistle he exhorteth his familiar friends and his host Gains , &c. thanking GOD for the great comfort receiued at his hands , he laid him downe as a harborer of all that loued Iesus Christ . He exhorteth to constancie , and to beware of Tyrants .

The Argument of Iude.

HE was one of the Apostles , he instructeth the godlie to continue in well doing . He sheweth the Iustice of God against sinners and reuolters , as , the Angels , the Iewes , Zodome , &c.

The Argument of the Reuelation .

THis booke containeth all the doctrine of the Prophets concerning Christ , which was to be accomplished after his comming . The comfort that commeth by his death : how to know the false spirit , the battaile betweene the Church and the limmes of Sathan , the mariage of Christ with his Saints , the prouidence of God , and the force of his word .

Now , the verie GOD of peace sanctifie you throughout : and I pray God that your whole spirit , soule and bodie , may bee kept blameles vnto the comming of our Lord Iesus Christ . Faithfull is he which calleth you , which will also doo it . 1. Thess. 5.23 , 24.

FINIS .