WILLIAM
TYNDALE
Nuevo Testamento
El Nuevo Testamento, traducido por 1ª vez a la lengua inglesa
THE PROLOGUE OF 1506
I have here translated (brethren and sisters most dear and tenderly beloved in Christ) the new Testament for your spiritual edifying, consolation and solace: Exhorting instantly and beseeching those that are better seen in the tongues than I, and that have higher gifts of grace to interpret the sense of the Scripture, and meaning of the Spirit, than I, to consider and ponder my labor, and that with the spirit of meekness. And if they perceive in any places that I have not attained the very sense of the tongue, or meaning of the Scripture, or have not given the right English word, that they put to their hands to amend it, remembering that so is their duty to do. For we have not received the gifts of God for ourselves only, or for to hide them; but for to bestow them unto the honoring of God and Christ, and edifying of the congregation, which is the body of Christ.
The causes that moved me to translate, I thought better that others should imagine, then that I should rehearse them. Moreover I supposed it superfluous, for who is so blind tare why light should be shewed to them that walk in darkness, where they cannot but stumble, and where to stumble is the danger of eternal damnation, other so despiteful that he would envy any man (I speak not his brother) so necessary a thing, or so bedlam made to affirm that good is the natural cause of blindness, and deafness to proceed out of sight, and that lying should be grounded in troth and verity, and not rather seen contrary, that light destroyeth darkness, and verity reproveth all manner saying.
Lest we ascribe, to the one that which belongeth to the other, and make of Christ Moses, of the gospell the Law, despise grace and rob faith: and fall from meek learning unto idle despicions, brawling and scolding about words.
The old testament
The old testament is a base, where in is written the law and commandments of God, and the deeds of them which fulfill them, and of them also which fulfilleth them not.
The new testament
The new testament is a base where in are contained the promises of God, and the deeds of them which believe them or believe them not.
The gospell or evangelion
Evangelion (that we call the gospell) is a Greek word; and signifieth good, merry, glad and joyful tidings, that maketh a man's heart glad, and maketh him sing, dance, and leap for joy. As when David had killed Goliah the giant, came glad tidings unto the jewes, that their fearful and cruel enemy was slain, and they delivered out of all danger: for gladness whereof, they sung, danced, and were joyful. In like manner is the Evangelion of God (which we call Gospel; and the New Testament) joyful tidings; and as some say, a good hearing published by the apostles throughout all the world, of Christ the right David how that he hath fought with sin, with death, and the devil, and overcome them. Whereby all men that were in bondage to sin, wounded with death, overcome of the devil, are with out their own merits or deservings, loosed, justified, restored to life, and saved, brought to liberty, and reconciled unto the favour of God, and set at one with him again: which tidings as many as believe, laud praise and thank God; are glad, sing and dance for joy.
Why evangelion is called a testament
This evangelion or gospell (that is to say, such joyful tidings) is called the new testament. Because that as a man when he shall die appointeth his goods to be dealt and distributed after his death among them which he nameth to be his heirs. Even so Christ before his death commanded and appointed that such evangelion, gospell, or tidings should be declared through out all the world, and there with to give unto all that believe all his goods, that is to say, his life, where with he swallowed and devoured up death: his righteousness, where with he banished sin: his salvation, where with he overcame eternal damnation. Now can the wretched man (that is wrapped in sin, and is in danger to death and hell) hear no more joyous a thing, then such glad and comfortable tidings, of Christ. So that he cannot but be glad and laugh from the low bottom of his heart, if he believe that the tidings are true.
To strength such faith with all, God promised this his evaglion in the old testament by the prophets (as Paul sayth in the first chapter unto the romans). How that he was chosen out to preach God's evangelion, which he before had promised by the prophets in the holy scriptures that treat of his son which was born of the seed of David. In the third chapter of Genesis, God saith to the serpent: I will put hatred between thee and the woman, between thy seed and her seed, that self seed shall tread thy head under foot. Christ is this woman's seed, he it is that hath trodden under foot the devil's seed, that is to say sin, death, hell, and all his power. For with out this seed can no man avoid sin, death, hell and everlasting damnation.
Again Gen. xxij. God promised Abraham saying: by thy seed shall all the generations of the earth be blessed. Christ is that seed of Abraham sayth saint Paul in the third to the Galathyans: He hast blessed all the world through the gospell. For where Christ is not, there remaineth the curse that fell on Adam as soon as he had sinned; So that they are in bondage under the domination of sin, death, and hell. Against this curse blesseth now the gospell all the world, in as much as it crieth openly, who so ever believeth on the seed of Abraham shall be blessed, that is, he shall be delivered from sin, death and hell, and shall hence forth continue righteous, living, and saved for ever, as Christ him self saith (in the xi. of Ihon) He that believeth on me shall never more die.
The law (saith the gospell of Ihon in the first chapter) was given by Moses: but grace and verity by Iesus Christ. The law (whose mnistrer is Moses) was given to bring us unto the knowledge of our selves, that we might there by feel and perceive what we are of nature. The law condemneth us and all our deeds, and is called of Paul (in the third chap. Of the second pistel unto the Corrinthians) the ministration of death. For it killeth our consciences and driveth us to desperation, in as much as it requireth of us that which is unpossible for us to do. It requireth of us the death of an whole, man. It requireth perfect love from the low bottom and ground of the heart, as well in all things which we suffer, as in those things which we do. But saith Ihon (in the same place) grace and verity is given us in Christ. So that when the law hath passed upon us, and condemned us to death (which is his nature to do) then have we in Christ grace, that is to say favour, promises of life, of mercy, of pardon freely by the merits of Christ, and in Christ have we verity and troth, in that God fulfilleth all his promises to them that believe. Therefore is the gospell the ministration of life. Paul calleth it, in the fore rehearsed place of the second chap. To the Cor. The ministration of the spirit, and of righteousness. In the gospell when we believe the promises, we receive the spirit of life, and are justified in the blood of Christ from all things where of the law condemned us. Of Christ it is written in the fore rehearsed first chapter of Ihon: This is he of whose abundance, or fullness, all we have received, grace for grace, or favour for favour. That is to say, for the favour that God hath to his son Christ, he giveth unto us his favour, and good will, as a father to his sons. As affirmeth Paul saying: which loved us in his beloved before the creation of the world. For the love that God hath to Christ, he loveth us, and not for our own faith. Christ is made lord over all, and is called in scripture God's mercy foretold whosoever flyeth to Christ, can neither bear nor receive of God any other thing save mercy.
In the old testament are many promises, which are nothing else but the evangelion or gospell, to save those that believed them, from the vengeance of the law. And in the new testament is oft made mention of the law, to condemn them, which believe not the promises. Moreover the law and gospell may never be separate: for the gospell and promises serve but for troubled consciences which are brought to desperation and feel the pains of hell and death under the law, and are in captivity and bondage under the law. In all my deeds I must have the law before me to condemn mine unperfections. For all that I do (be I never so perfect) is yet damnable sin, when it is compared to the law, which requireth the ground and bottom of mine heart. I must therefore have always the law in my sight, that I may be meek in the spirit, and give God all the laud and praise, ascribing to him all righteousness, and to my self all unrigteousness and sin. I must also have the promises before mine eyes, that I despair not, in which promises I see the mercy, favour, and good will of God upon me in the blood of his son Christ, which hath made satisfaction for mine unperfections, and fulfilled from me, that which I could not do.
Here may ye perceive that two manner of people are sore deceived. First they which justify them self with outward deeds, in that they abstain outwardly from that which the law forbiddeth, and do outwardly that which the law commandeth. They compare them selves to open sinners and in respect of them justify them selves condemning the open sinners. They see not how the law requireth love from the bottom of the heart. If they did they would not condemn their neighbours. Love hideth the multitude of sins, saith Saynct Peter in his first pistel. For whom I love from the deep bottom and ground of mine heart, him condemn I not, neither reckon his sins, but suffer his weakness and infirmity, as a mother the weakness of her son, until he grow up in to a perfect man.
Those also are deceived which with out all fear of God give them selves unto all manner vices with full consent, and full delectation, having no respect to the law of God (under whose vengeance they are locked up in captivity) but say: god is merciful and christ died for us, supposing that such dreaming and imagination is that faith which is so greatly commended in holy scripture. Nay that is not faith, but rather a foolish opinion springing of their own nature, and is not given them of the spirit of God. True faith is (as saith the apostle Paul) the gift of God and is given to sinners after the law hath passed upon them and hath brought their consciences unto the brim of desperation, and sorrows of hell.
They that have this right faith, consent to the law that it is righteous and good, and justify God which made the law, and have delectation in the law (not with stonding that they can not fulfill it, for their weakness) and they abhor what soever the law forbiddeth, though they cannot avoid it. And their great sorrow is, because they cannot fulfill the will of God in the law, and the spirit that is in them crieth to God night and day for strength and help with tears (as saith Paul) that cannot be expressed with tongue.
A justiciary
The first, that is to say a justiciary, which justifieth him self with his outward deeds, cosenteth not to the law in ward, neither hath delectation therein, yee, he would rather that no such law were. So justifieth he not God, but hateth him as a tyrant, neither careth he for the promises, but will with his own strength be favour of him self: no wise glorifieth he God, though he seem outward to do.
A sensual man
The second, that is to say the sensual person, as a voluptuous swine, neither feareth God in his law, neither is thankful to him for his promises and mercy, which is set forth in Christ to all them that believe.
A Christen man
The right Christen man consenteth to the law that it is righteous, and justifieth God in the law, for he affirmeth that God is righteous and just, which is author of the law, he believeth the promises of God, and so justifieth God, judging him true and believing that he will fulfill his promises. With the law he condemneth him self and all his deeds, and giveth all the praise to God. He believeth the promises, and ascribeth all troth to god, thus every where justifieth he God, and praiseth God.
Nature
By nature through the fall of Adam, are we the children of wrath, heirs of the vengeance of God by birth, yee and from our conception, we have our fellowship with the damned devils under the power of darkness and rule of satan, while we are yet in our mother's wombs, though we shew not forth the fruits of sin, yet are we full of the natural poison where of all sinful deeds spring, and cannot but sin outwards (be we never so young) if occasion be given, for our nature is to do sin, as is the nature of a serpent to sting. And as a serpent yet young, or yet un-brought forth is full of poison, and cannot afterward (when the time is come and occasion given) but bring forth the fruits there of. And as an edder, a toad, or a snake is hated of man, (not for the evil that it hath done, but for the poison that is in it and hurt which it cannot but do) So are we hated of God for that natural poison which is conceived and born with us, before we do any outward evil. And as the evil, which a venomous worm doeth, maketh it not a serpent: but be cause it is a venomous worm. Therefore doeth it evil and poisoneth. And as the fruit maketh not the tree evil: but because it is an evil tree, therefore bringeth it forth evil furit, when the season of fruit is. Even so do not our evil deeds make us evil: but because that of nature we are evil, therefore we both think and do evil, and are under vengeance, under the law, convicted to eternal damnation by the law, and are contrary to the will of God in all our will, and in all things consent to the will of the land.
By grace (that is to say by favour) we are plucked out of Adam the ground of all evil, and grafted in Christ the root of all goodness. In Christ God loved us his elect and chosen, before the world began, and referred us unto the knowledge of his son and of his holy gospell, and when the gospell is preached to us he openeth our hearts, and giveth us grace to believe and putteth the spirit of Christ in us, and we know him as our father most merciful, and consent to the law, and love it inwardly in our heart, and desire to fulfill it, and sorrow because we cannot, which will (sin we of frailty never so much) is sufficient till more strength be given us, the blood of Christ hath made satisfaction for the rest: the blood of Christ hath obtained all things for us of God. Christ is our satisfaction, redeemer, deliverer, saviour from vengeance and wrath. Observe and mark in the pistels of Paul, and Peter, and the gospell and pistels of Ihon what Christ is unto us.
Faith, love, works
By faith are we never with out love and good works, yet is our saving imputed neither to love nor unto good works, but unto faith only. For love and works are under the law which requireth perfection, and the ground and fountain of the heart, and damneth all imperfections. Now is faith under the promises, which damn not: but give all grace, mercy and favour, and whatsoever is contained in the promises.
Righteousness other wise justifying or justice
Righteousness is divers; Blind reason imagineth many matter of righteousnesses. As the just ministration of all manner of laws, and the observing of them, and moral virtues were in philosophers put their felicity and blessedness, which all are nothing in the sight of God. There is in like manner the justifying of ceremonies, some imagine them their own selves, some counterfeit other, saying in their blind reason: such holy persons did thus and thus, and they were holy men, therefore if I do so like wise I shall please God: but they have none answer of God, that that pleaseth. The jewes seek righteousness in their ceremonies which God gave unto them, not for to justify: but to describe and paint Christ unto them, of which jewes testifieth Paul saying how that they have affection to God: but not after knowledge, for they go about to stablish their own justice, and are not obedient to the justice or righteousness that cometh of God. The cause is verily, that except a man cast away his own imagination and reason, he cannot perceive God, and understand the virtue and power of the blood of Christ. There is the righteousness of works (as I said before) when the heart is away, they feel not how the law is spiritual and cannot be fulfilled, but from the bottom of the heart. There is a full righteousness, when the law is fulfilled from the ground of the heart. This had neither Peter nor Paul in this life perfectly: but sighed after it. They were so far forth blessed in Christ, that they hungered and thirsted after it. Paul had this thirst, he consented to the law of God, that it ought so to be, but he found an other lust in his members contrary to the lust and desire of his mind, and therefore cried out saying: Oh wretched man that I am: who shall deliver me from this body of death, thanks be to God thorow Iesus Christ. The righteousness that before God is of value, is to believe the promises of God, after the law hath confounded the conscience. As when the temporal law oft times condemneth the thief or murderer and bringeth him to execution, so that he saith nothing before him but present death, and then cometh good tidings, a charter from the King and delivereth him. Likewise when God's law hath brought the sinner into knowledge of him self, and hath confounded his conscience, and opened unto him the wrath and vengeance of God, then cometh good tidings, the Evangelion sheweth unto him the promises of God in Christ, and how that Christ hath purchased pardon for him hath satisfied the law for him, and appeased the wrath of God, and the poor sinner believeth, laudeth and thanketh God, thorow Christ, and breaketh out into exceeding inward joy and gladness, for that he hath escaped so great wrath, so heavy vengeance, so fearful and so everlasting a death, and he hence forth is an hungered, and at thirst after more righteousness, that he might fulfill the law, and mourneth continually commending his weakness unto God in the blood of our saviour Christ Iesus.
Adam bringeth us to bondage
The fall of Adam hath made us heirs of the vengeance and wrath of God, and heirs of eternal damnation; And hath brought us into captivity and bondage under the devil; And the devil is our lord, and our ruler, our head, our governor, our prince, yee and our god. And our will is locked and knit faster unto the will of the devils, then cond an hundred thousand chains bind a man unto a post. Unto the devils' will consent we, with all our hearts, with all our minds, with all our might, power, strength, will and lust. With what poisoned, deadly, and venomous hate, hateth a man his enemy; With how great malice of mind inwardly do we slay and murder; With what violence and rage, ye and with how fervent lust commit we advoutry, fornication, and such like uncleanness: with what pleasure and delectation inwardly serveth a glutton his belly; With what diligence deceive we; How busily seek we things of the world; Whatsoever we do, think, or imagine, is abominable in the sight of God. And we are as it were asleep in so deep blindness, that we can neither see, nor feel in what misery, thralldom, and wretchedness we are in, till Moses come and wake us, and publish he the law. When we hear the law truly preached, how that we ought to love and honour God with all our strength and might, from the low bottom of the heart: and our neighbours (yee our enemies.) as our selves inwardly from the ground of the heart, and to do whatsoever God biddeth, and abstain from whatsoever God forbiddeth, with all love and meekness, with a fervent and a burning lust, from the center of the heart, then beginneth the conscience to rage against the law, and against God; No less (be it never so great a tempest) is so unquiet. It is not possible for a natural man to consent to the law, that it should be good, or that God should be righteous, which maketh the law. Man's wit, reason, and will, are so fast glued, yee nailed and chained unto the will of the devil. Neither can any creature lowse the bonds, save the blood of Christ.
Christ letteth us at liberty
This is the captivity and bondage whence Christ delivered us, redeemed, and lowsed us. His blood, his death, his patience, in suffering rebukes and wrongs, his prayers and fastings, his meekness and fulfilling of the utmost point of the law, appeased the wrath of God, brought the favor of God to us again, obtained that God should love us first, and be our father, and that a merciful father, that will consider our infirmities and weakness, and will give us his spirit again (which was taken away in the fall of Adam) to rule govern and strength us, and to break the bonds of Satan, where in we were so strait bound.
The evangleion bringeth faith, faith bringeth love: love worketh
When Christis thus wise preached, and the promises rehearsed, which are contained in the prophets, in the psalms, and in divers places of the five books of Moses: then the hearts of them which are elect and chosen, begin to meek soft, and to melt at the bounteous mercy of God, and kindness shewed of Christ. For when the evangelion is preached, the spirit of God entereth in to them which God hath ordained and appointed unto eternal life, and openeth there inward eyes, and worketh such belief in them.
When the wofull consciences feel and taste how sweet a thing the bitter death of Christ is, and how merciful and loving God is through Christ's purchasing and merits; They begin to love again, and to consent to the law of God, how that it is good, and ought so to be, and that God is righteous which made it; And desire to fulfill the law, even as a sick man desireth to be whole, and are anhungered, and athirst after more righteousness, and after more strength, to fulfill the law more perfectly. And in all that they do, or omit and leave undone, they seek God's honour, and his will with meekness, ever condemning the unperfectness of their deeds by the law.
Christ bringeth all goodness freely, and giveth an ensample how to be stow in godly
Now Christ stondeth us in double sted, and serveth us two manner ways. First he is our redeemer, deliverer, reconciler, mediator, intercessor, advocate, attorney, solicitor, our hope, comfort, shield, protection, defender, strength, health, satisfaction, and salvation. His blood, his death, all that he ever did, is ours. And Christ him self, with all that he is or can do, is ours. His blood sheding and all that he did, doeth me as good service, as though I my self had done it. And God (as great as he is) is mine with all that he hath, thorow Christ and his purchasing.
Secondarily after that we be overcome with love and kindness, and now seek to do the will of God (which is a christen man's nature) Then have we Christe an ensample to counterfeit, as saith Christ him self in Ihon: I have given you an ensample. And in an other evangelist, he saith; He that will be great among you shall be your servant and minister, as the son of man came to minister and not to be ministered onto.
Faith receiveth of God, and love bestoweth the same on his neighbour
And Paul saith: Counterfeit Christ. And Peter saith: Christ died for you, and left you an ensample to follow his steps. Whatsoever therefore faith hath received of God thorow Christ's blood and deserving, that same must love shed out everywhere, and bestow it on our neighbours unto their profit, yee and that though they be our enemies. By faith we receive of God, and by love we shed out again. And that must we do freely after the ensample of Christ with out any other respect, save our neighbour's wealth only, and neither look for reward in earth, nor yet in heaven for our deeds: but of pure love must we bestow ourselves, all that we have, and all that we are able to do, even on our enemies to bring them to God, considering nothing but their wealth, as Christ did ours.
A true christyn man believeth that heaven is his already by Christ's purchasing, and therefore loveth, and worketh, to honour God only, and to draw all things to God
Christ did not his deeds to obtain heaven thereby (that had been a madness) heaven was his already, he was heir thereof, it was his by inheritance: but did them freely for our sakes, considering no thing but our wealth, and to bring the favour of God to us again, and us to God. As no natural son that is his father's heir, doeth his father's will because he would be heir, that he is already by birth: his father gave him that yer he was born, and is lothther that he should go with out it, then he himself hath wit to be: but of pure love doeth he that he doeth. And ask him why he doeth any thing that he doeth, he answereth: my father bade, it is my father's will, it pleaseth my father. Bond servants work for hire, Children for love. For their father with all he hath, is theirs already. So doeth a christen man freely all that he doeth, considereth nothing but the will of God, and his neighbour's wealth only. If I live chaste, I do it not to obtain heaven thereby. For then should I do wrong to the blood of Christ: Christ's blood hath obtained me that, Christ's merits have made me heir thereof. He is both door and way thither wards. Neither that I look for an heir room in heaven, then they shall have which live in wedlock, other then a hoar of the stews (if she repent) for that were the pride of lucifer: But freely to wait on the evangelion, and to serve my brother with all, even as one hand helpeth another, or one member another, because one feeleth another's grief, and the pain of the one is the pain of the other. Whatsoever is done to the least of us (whether it be good or bad) it is done to Christ. And whatsoever is done to my brother (if I be a christen man) that same is done to me: neither doeth my brother's pain grieve me less then mine own. If it were not so: how saith Paul: let him that rejoiceth, rejoice in the Lord: that is to say Christ, which is lord over all creatures. If my merits obtained me heaven, or an higher room there, then had I where in I might rejoice besides the Lord.
To bynd and lowse
Here see ye the nature of the law, and the nature of the evangelion. How the Law bindeth and damneth all men, and the Evangelion lowseth them again. The law goeth before, and the evangelion followeth. When a preacher preacheth the Law, he bindeth all consciences, and when he preacheth the Gospell, he loveth them again. These two salves (I mean the Law and the Gospell) useth God and his preacher to heal and cure sinners withall. The law driveth out the disease, and maketh it appear, and is a sharp salve, and a fretting coursey, and killeth the deed fleshly, and lowseth and draweth the sores out by the roots, and all corruption. It pulleth from a man the trust and confidence that he hath in him self, and in his own works, merits, deservings and ceremonies. It killeth him, sendeth him down to hell, and bringeth him to utter desperation, and prepareth the way of the lord, as it is written of Ihon the Baptist: for it is not possible that Christ should come to a man, as long as he trusteth in him self, or in any worldly thing. Then cometh the Evengelion, a more gentle plaster, which sowpleth, and swageth the wounds of the conscience, and bringeth health. It bringeth the spirit of God, which lowseth the honds of satan, and coupleth us to God and his will thorow strong faith and fervent love, with bonds too strong for the devil, the world, or any creature to lowse them.
A christen man feeleth the working of the holy ghost in his soul: and in all tribulations and adversities fealeth God a merciful father and a loving
And the poor and wretched sinner feeleth so great mercy, love, and kindness in God, that he is sure in him self how that it is not possible that God should forsake him, or withdraw his mercy and love from him. And boldly crieth out with Paul saying: Who shall separate us from the love that God loveth us withall? That is to say: what shall make me believe that God loveth me not? Shall tribulation? Anguish? Persecution? Shall hunger? Nakedness? Shall a sword? Nay, I am sure that neither death, nor life, neither angel, neither rule, nor power, neither present things, nor things to come, neither high nor low, neither any creature able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Iesu our lord. In all such tribulations a Christen man perceiveth that God is his father, and loveth him, even as he loved Christ when he shed his blood on the cross. Finally, as before, when I was bond to the devil and his will, I wrought all manner evil and wickedness, not for hell's sake which is there ward of sin, but be cause I was heir of hell by birth and bondage to the devil, did I evil. For I would none other ways do; to do sin was my nature. Even so now since I am coupled to God by Christ's blood, do I well, not for heaven's sake: but be cause I am heir of Heaven by grace and Christ's purchasing, and have the spirit of God, I do good freely, for so is my nature. As a good tree bringeth forth good fruit, and an evil tree evil fruit. By the fruits shall ye know what the tree is: a man's deeds declare what he is within but make him neither good nor bad &c. We must be first evil yer we do evil, as a serpent is first poisoned yer he poison. We must be also good yer we do good yer we do good, as the fire must be first hot yer it warm any thing. Take an ensample. As those blind which are cured in the evangelion, could not see till Christ had given them sight; And deaf could not hear, till Christ had given them hearing; And those sick could not do the deeds of an whole man, till Christ had given them health: So can no man do good in his soul, till Christ have lowsed him out of the bonds of satan, and have given him where with to do good, yee and first have poured into him that self good thing which he sheddeth forth afterward on other. Whatsoever is our own is sin. Whatsoever is above that, is Christ's gift, purchase, doing, and working. He bought it of his father derely with his blood, yee with his most bitter death and gave his life for it. Whatsoever good thing is in us, that is given us freely with out our deserving or merits for Christ's blood's sake. That we desire to follow the will of God, it is the gift of Christ's blood. That we now hate the devil's will (where unto we were so fast locked, and could not but love it) is also the gift of Christ's blood, unto whom belongeth the praise and honour of our good deeds, and not unto us.
TO THE READER
Give diligence, reader (I exhort thee) that thou come with a pure mind, and, as the Scripture saith, with a single eye, unto the words of health and of eternal life, by the which (if we repent and believe them) we are born anew, created afresh, and enjoy the fruits of the blood of Christ. Which blood crieth not for vengeance, as the blood of Abel, but hath purchased life, love, favor, grace, blessing, and whatsoever is promised in the Scriptures, to them that believe and obey God, and standeth between us and wrath, vengeance, curse, and whatsoever the Scripture threateneth against the unbelievers and disobedient, which resist, and consent not in their hearts to the law of God, that it is right, holy, just, and ought so to be.
Mark the plain and manifest places of the Scriptures, and in doubtful places see thou add no interpretation contrary to them; but (as Paul saith) let all be conformable and agreeing to the faith.
Note the difference of the Law and of the Gospell. The one asketh and requireth, the other pardoneth and forgiveth. The one threateneth, the other promiseth all good things to them that set their trust in Christ only. The gospel signifieth glad tidings, and is nothing but the promises of good things. All is not gospel that is written in the gospel book: for if the law were away, thou couldest not know what the gospel meant, even as thou couldest not see pardon, favor, and grace except the law rebuked thee, and declared unto thee thy sin, misdeed, and trespass.
Repent and believe the gospel, as saith Christ in the first of Mark. Apply alway the Law to thy deeds, whether thou find lust (1) in the bottom of thine heart to the law-ward, and so shalt thou no doubt repent, and feel in thyself a certain sorrow, pain, and grief to thine heart, because thou canst not with full lust do the deeds of the law. Apply the gospel that is to say the promises unto the deserving of Christ, and to the mercy of God and his truth, and so shalt thou not despair, but shall feel God as a kind and a merciful father. And his spirit shall dwell in thee, and shall be strong in thee, and the promises shall be given thee at the last (though not by and by, lest thou shouldest forget thyself, and be negligent) and all threatenings shall be forgiven thee for Christ's blood's sake to whom commit thyself altogether without respect either of thy good deeds or of thy bad.
Them that are learned Christianly I beseech forasmuch as I am sure, and my conscience beareth me record, that of a pure intent, singly and faithfully I have interpreted it, as far forth as God gave me the gift of knowledge and understanding that the rudeness of the work now at the first time offend them not, but that they consider how that I had no man to counterfeit, neither was helped with English of any that had interpreted the same or such like things in the Scripture beforetime. Moreover, even very necessity and cumbrance (God is record) above strength which I will not rehearse, lest we should seem to boast ourselves caused that many things are lacking which necessarily are required. Count it as a thing not having his full shape, but as it were born before his time, even as a thing begun rather than finished. In time to come (if God have appointed us thereunto) we will give it his full shape, and put out if aught be added superfluously, and add to if aught be overseen through negligence, and will enforce to bring to compendiousness that which is now translated at the length, and to give light where it is required, and to seek in certain places more proper English, and with a table to expound the words which are not commonly used and shew how the Scripture useth many words which are otherwise understood of the common people, and to help with a declaration where one tongue taketh not another; and will endeavor ourselves, as it were, to seeth (2) it better, and to make it more apt for the weak stomachs; desiring them that are learned and able, to remember their duty, and to help thereunto, and to bestow unto the edifying of Christ's body (which is the congregation of them that believe) those gifts which they have received of God for the same purpose. The grace that cometh of Christ be with them that love him. Pray for us.
(1) "Lust" here is used in a good sense: eagerness to obey.
(2) "Seeth" means "boil, cook."
The first Chapter.
This is the book of the generation of Iesus Christ the son of David, the son also of Abraham.
Abraham begat Isaac:
Isaac begat Iacob:
Iacob begat Iudas and his brethren:
Iudas begat Phares: and Zaram of Thamar:
Phares begat Esrom:
Esrom begat Aram:
Aram begat Aminadab:
Aminadab begat Naasson:
Naasson begat Salmon:
Salmon begat Boos of Rahab:
Boos begat Obed of Ruth:
Obed begat Iesse:
Iesse begat David the king:
David the king begat Solomon, of her that was the wife of Ury:
Solomon begat Roboam:
Roboam begat Abia:
Abia begat Asa:
Asa begat Iosaphat:
Iosaphat begat Ioram:
Ioram begat Osias:
Osias begat Ioatham:
Ioatham begat Athas:
Athas begat Ezechias:
Ezechias begat Manasses:
Manasses begat Amon:
Amon begat Iosias:
Iosias begat Iechonias and his brethren about the time of the captivity of Babylon.
After they were led captive to Babylon, Iechonias begat Salathiel:
Salathiel begat Zorobabel:
Zorobabel begat Abiud:
Abiud begat Eliachim:
Eliachim begat Azor:
Azor begat Sadoc:
Sadoc begat Achin:
Achin begat Eliud:
Eliud begat Eleasar:
Eleasar begat Matthan:
Matthan begat Iacob:
Iacob begat Ioseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born that Iesus which is called Christ.
All the generations from Abraham to David are fourteen generations. And from David unto the captivity of Babylon, are fourteen generations. And from the captivity of Babylon unto Christ, are also fourteen generations.
The birth of Christ was on this wise, when his mother Mary was married unto Ioseph, before they came to dwell together, she was found with child by the holy ghost. Then her husband Ioseph being a perfect man, and loth to defame her, was minded to put her away secretly. While he thus thought, behold, the angel of the lord appeared unto him in sleep saying: Ioseph the son of David, fear not to take unto thee, Mary thy wife. For that which is conceived in her, is of the holy ghost. She shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name Iesus. For he shall save his people from their sins.
All this was done to fulfil that which was spoken of the lord, by the prophet saying: Behold a maid shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shalt call his name Emanuel, which is as much to say, by interpretation, as God with us.
Ioseph as soon as he awoke out of sleep, did as the angel of the lord bade him, and took his wife unto him, and knew her not, till she had brought forth her first son, and called his name Iesus.
The Second Chapter.
When Iesus was born in Bethlehem a town of Iury, in the time of king Herod, behold, there came wise men from the east to Ierusalem saying: Where is he that is born king of the jewes? We have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.
Herod the king, after he had heard this, was troubled, and all Ierusalem with him, and he sent for all the chief priests and scribes of the people, and demanded of them where Christ should be born. They said unto him: in Bethlehem a town of Iury. For thus it is written by the prophet: And thou Bethlehem in the land of Iury, shalt not be the least as pertaining to the princes of Iuda. For out of thee shall come a captain, which shall govern my people Israhel.
Then Herod privily called the wise men, and diligently enquired of them, the time of the star that appeared. And sent them to Bethlehem saying: when ye be come thither search diligently for the child. And when ye have found him bring me word, that I may come and worship him also. When they had heard the king, they departed, and lo the star which they saw in the east went before them, until it came and stood over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they were marvellously glad. And entered into the house, and found the child with Mary his mother, and kneeled down and worshipped him, and opened their treasures, and offered unto him gifts, gold, frankincense, and myrrh. And after they were warned in their sleep, that they should not go again to Herod, they returned into their own country another way.
After that they were departed, lo the angel of the lord appeared to Ioseph in his sleep saying: arise and take the child and his mother, and fly into Egypt, and abide there till I bring thee word. For Herod will seek the child to destroy him. Then he arose, and took the child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt, and was there unto the death of Herod, to fulfil that which was spoken of the lord, by the prophet, which saith: out of Egypt have I called my son.
Then Herod perceiving that he was mocked of the wise men, was exceeding wroth, and sent forth and slew all the children that were in Bethlehem, and in all the coasts thereof, as many as were two year old and under, according to the time which he had diligently searched out of the wise men.
Then was fulfilled, that which was spoken by the prophet Ieremy, saying: On the hills was a voice heard, mourning, weeping, and great lamentation. Rachel weeping for her children, and would not be comforted, because they were not.
When Herod was dead, lo an angel of the lord appeared unto Ioseph in Egypt saying: arise and take the child and his mother, and go into the land of Israhel. For they are dead, which sought the child's death. Then he arose up, and took the child and his mother, and came into the land of Israhel. But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Iury, in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither. Notwithstanding after he was warned in his sleep, he turned aside into the parts of Galilee, and went and dwelt in a city called Nazareth, to fulfil, that which was spoken by the prophets: He shall be called of Nazareth.
The third Chapter.
In those days Ihon the Baptizer, came and preached in the wilderness of Iury saying: repent, the kingdom of heaven is at hand. This is he of whom it is spoken by the prophet Isay, which saith: The voice of a crier in wilderness, prepare the lorde's way, and make his paths straight.
This Ihon had his garment of camel's hair, and a girdle of a skin about his loins. His meat was locusts and wild honey. Then went out to him Ierusalem, and all Ieury, and all the region round about Iordan, and were baptised of him in Iordan, knowledging their sins.
When he saw many of the pharisees and of the Saduces come to his baptism, he said unto them: O generation of vipers, who hath taught you to flee from the vengeance to come? bring forth therefore the fruits belonging to repentance. And see that ye once think not to say in yourselves, we have Abraham to our father. For I say unto you, that God is able of these stones, to raise up children unto Abraham. Even now is the axe put unto the root of the trees: so that every tree which bringeth not forth, good fruit, shall be hewn down, and cast into the fire.
I baptise you in water, in token of repentance, but he that cometh after me, is mightier than I: whose shoes I am not worthy to bear. He shall baptise you with the holy ghost, and with fire, which hath also his fan in his hand, and will purge his flour, and gather the wheat into his garner, and will burn the chaff with everlasting fire.
Then came Iesus from Galilee into Iordan to Ihon, for to be baptised of him. But Ihon forbade him saying: I ought to be baptised of thee: and comest thou too me? Iesus answered and said to him, let it be so now. For thus it becometh us, to fulfil all righteousness. Then he suffered him. And Iesus as soon as he was baptised, came straight out of the water: And lo heaven was open unto him: and he saw the spirit of God descend like a dove, and light upon him. And lo there came a voice from heaven saying: this is that my dear son, in whom is my delight.
The fourth Chapter.
Then was Iesus led away of the spirit in to a desert, to be tempted of the devil. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, at the last he was an hungered. Then came until him the tempter, and said: if thou be the son of God, command that these stones be made bread. He answered and said: it is written, man shall not live only by bread, But by every word that proceedeth out of the mought of God.
Then the devil took him up into the holy city, and set him on a pinnacle of the temple, and said unto him: if thou be the son of God, cast thyself down. For it is written, he shall give his angels charge over thee, and with their hands they shall stey thee up, that thou dash not thy foot against a stone. Iesus said to him, it is written also: thou shalt not tempt thy lord God.
The devil took him up again and led him into an exceeding high mountain, and shewed him all the kingdoms of the world, and the beauty of them, and said unto him: all these will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. Then said Iesus unto him, avoid Satan. For it is written, thou shalt worship thy lord God, and him only, shalt thou serve.
Then the devil left him, and lo the angels came and ministered unto him.
When Iesus had heard that Ihon was taken, he departed into Galilee, and left Nazareth, and went and dwelt in Capernaum, which is a city upon the sea, in the coasts of Zabulon and Nephthalim, to fulfil that which was spoken by Isay the prophet, saying: Behold the land of Zabulon and Nephthalim, the way of the sea beyond Iordan, Galilee of the Gentiles, the people which sat in darkness, saw great light. And to them which sat in the region and shadow of death, light is sprong.
From that time Iesus began to preach, and to say: Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
As Iesus walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw two brethren: Simon which was called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea (for they were fishers) and he said unto them, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.
And he went forth from thence, and saw other two brethren, Iames the son of Zebedee, and Ihon his brother in the ship, with Zebedee their father, mending their nets, and called them. And they without tarrying left the ship and their father and followed him.
And Iesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness, and all manner diseases among the people. And his fame spread abroad throughout all Syria. And they brought unto him all sick people, that were taken with divers diseases and gripings, and them that were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatic, and those that had the palsy. And he healed them. And there followed him a great number of people, from Galilee, and from the ten cities, and from Ierusalem, and from Iury, and from the regions that lie beyond Iordan.
The fifth Chapter.
When he saw the people he went up into a mountain, and when he was set, his disciples came to him, and he opened his mouth, and taught them saying: Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which hunger and thirst for righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the maintainers of peace: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which suffer persecution for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall falsely say all manner of evil sayings against you for my sake. Rejoice, and be glad, for great is your reward in heaven. For so persecuted they the prophets which were before your days.
Ye are the salt of the earth: but and if the salt be once unsavory, what can be salted there with? It is thence forth good for nothing, but to be cast out at the doors, and that men tread it under feet. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill, cannot be hid, neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick, and it lighteth all them which are in the house. See that your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your father which is in heaven.
Ye shall not think, that I am come to disannul the law, other the prophets: no I am not come to disannul them, but to fulfil them. For truly I say unto you, till heaven and earth perish, one iott, or one tytle of the law shall not scape, till all be fulfilled.
Whosoever breaketh one of these least commandments, and teacheth men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven. But whosoever shall observe and teach them, that person shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
For I say unto you except your righteousness exceed the righteousness of the scribes and pharisees, ye cannot enter into the kingdom of heaven.
Ye have heard how it was said unto them of the old time: Thou shalt not kill. Whosoever shall kill, shall be in danger of judgement. But I say unto you, whosoever is angry with his brother, shall be in danger of judgement. Whosoever shall say unto his brother raca, shall be in danger of a council. But whosoever say unto his brother thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire. Therefore when thou offerest thy gift at the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath anything against thee: leave there thine offering before the altar, and go thy way first and reconcile thyself to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
Agree with thine adversary at once, whiles thou art in the way with him, lest thine adversary deliver thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the minister, and then thou be cast into prison. I say unto thee verily: thou shalt not come out thence till thou have paid the utmost farthing.
Ye have heard how it was said to them of old time, thou shalt not commit advoutry. But I say unto you, that whosoever eyeth a wife, lusting after her, hath committed advoutry with her already in his heart.
Wherefore if thy right eye offend thee, pluck him out, and cast him from thee. Better it is for thee that one of thy members perish than that thy whole body should be cast into hell. Also if thy right hand offend thee, cut him off and cast him from thee. Better it is that one of thy members perish, than that all thy body should, be cast into hell.
It is said, whosoever put away his wife, let him give her a testimonial of her divorcement. But I say unto you: whosoever put away his wife, (except it be for fornication) causeth her to break matrimony. And whosoever marrieth her that is divorced, breaketh wedlock.
Again ye have heard, how it was said to them of old time, thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform thine oath to God. But I say unto you swear not at all: neither by heaven, for it is God's seat: nor yet by the earth, for it is his footstool: Neither by Ierusalem, for it is the city of that great king: neither shalt thou swear by thy head, because thou canst not make one white hair, or black: But your communication shall be, yea, yea: nay, nay. For whatsoever is more than that, cometh of evil.
Ye have heard how it is said, an eye for an eye: a tooth for a tooth. But I say to you, that ye withstand not wrong: But if a man give thee a blow on thy right cheek, turn to him the other. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take thy coat from thee, let him have thy cloak also. And whosoever will compel thee to go a mile, go with him twain. Give to him that asketh: and from him that would borrow turn not away.
Ye have heard how it is said: thou shalt love thine neighbor, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, love your enemies. Bless them that curse you. Do good to them that hate you. Pray for them which do you wrong, and persecute you, that ye may be the children of your heavenly father: for he maketh his sun to arise, on the evil, and on the good, and sendeth his rain on the just and unjust. For if ye shall love them, which love you: what reward shall ye have? Do not the publicans even so? And if ye be friendly to your brethren only: what singular thing do ye? Do not the publicans likewise? Ye shall therefore be perfect, even as your heavenly father is perfect.
The sixth Chapter.
Take heed to your alms. That ye give it not in the sight of men, to the intent that ye would be seen of them. Or else ye get no reward of your father in heaven. Whensoever therefore thou givest thine alms, thou shalt not make a trumpet to be blown before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues, and in the streets, for to be praised of men. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward. But when thou doest thine alms, let not thy left hand know, what thy right hand doth, that thine alms may be secret, and thy father which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.
And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues, and in the corners of the streets, because they would be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward. But when thou prayest, enter into thy chamber, and shut thy door to thee, and pray to thy father which is in secret: and thy father which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.
But when ye pray, babble not much, as the gentiles do: for they think that they shall be heard, for their much babbling's sake. Be ye not like them therefore. For your father knoweth whereof ye have need, before ye ask of him. After this manner therefore pray ye.
O our father, which art in heaven hallowed be thy name. Let thy kingdom come. Thy will be fulfilled, as well in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, even as we forgive them which trespass us. Lead us not in to temptation: but deliver us from evil, [For thine is the kingdom and the power, and the glory for ever.] Amen. For and if ye shall forgive other men their trespasses, your father in heaven shall also forgive you. But and ye will not forgive men their trespasses, no more shall, your father forgive your trespasses.
Moreover when ye fast, be not sad as the hypocrites are. For they disfigure their faces, that it might appear unto men that they fast. Verily I say unto you, they have their reward. But thou when thou fastest, anoint thine head, and wash thy face, that it appear not unto men how that thou fastest: but unto thy father which is in secret: and thy father which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.
Gather not treasure together on earth, where rust and moths corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal. But gather ye treasures together in heaven, where neither rust, nor yet moths corrupt: and where thieves neither break up, nor yet steal. For wheresoever your treasure is, there are your hearts also.
The light of the body is thine eye. Wherefore if thine eye be single, all thy body is full of light. But and if thine eye be wicked, then is all thy body full of darkness. Wherefore if the light that is in thee, be darkness: how great is that darkness?
No man can serve two masters. For either he shall hate the one, and love the other: or else he shall lean to the one, and despise that other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Therefore I say unto you, be not careful for your life what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, nor yet for your body, what raiment ye shall wear. Is not the life more worth then meat? and the body more of value then raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither reap, nor yet carry into the barns, and yet your heavenly father feedeth them. Are ye not better than they?
Which of you (though he took thought therefore) could put one cubit unto his stature? And why care ye then for raiment? Behold the lilies of the field, how they grow. They labor not, neither spin. And yet for all that I say unto you, that even Solomon in all his royalty, was not arrayed like unto one of these. Wherefore if God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow shall be cast into the furnace: shall he not much more do the same unto you, o ye of little faith?
Therefore take no thought saying: what shall we eat, or what shall we drink, or wherewith shall we be clothed? (After all these things seek the gentiles) For your heavenly father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But rather seek ye first the kingdom of heaven, and the righteousness thereof, and all these things shall be ministered unto you. Care not therefore for the day folowing. For the day folowing shall care for itself. Each days trouble is sufficient for the sameself day.
The .vij. Chapter.
Judge not lest ye be judged. For as ye judge, so shall ye be judged. And with what measure ye mete, with the same shall it be measured to you again. Why seest thou a mote in thy brother's eye, and perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or why sayest thou to thy brother: suffer me to pluck out a mote out of thine eye, and behold a beam is in thine own eye. Hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou see clearly to pluck out the mote out of thy brother's eye.
Give not that which is holy to dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they tread them under their feet, and the other turn again and all to rent you.
Ask and it shall be given you: Seek and ye shall find, knock and it shall be opened unto you. For whosoever asketh receiveth, and he that seeketh findeth, and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened. Is there any man among you which would proffer his son a stone if he asked him bread? Or if he asked fish, would he proffer him a serpent? If ye then which are evil, can give to your children good gifts: how much more shall your father, which is in heaven, give good things, to them that ask of him?
Therefore whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, even so do ye to them. This is the law and the prophets.
Enter in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way that leadeth to destruction: and many there be, which go in thereat. For strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life: and few there be, that find it.
Beware of false prophets, which come to you, in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns? Or figs of briars? Even so every good tree, bringeth forth good fruit. But a corrupt tree, bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth bad fruite: nor yet a bad tree can bring forth good fruit. Every tree, that bringeth not forth good fruit, shall be hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. Not all they that say unto me, master, master, shall enter in to the kingdom of heaven: But he that fulfilleth my father's will which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, master, master, have we not in thy name prophesied? and in thy name have we not cast out devils? and in thy name have we not done many miracles. And then will I knowledge unto them, that I never knew them. Depart from me, ye workers of iniquity.
Whosoever heareth of me these sayings, and doeth the same, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house on a rock: and abundance of rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that same house, and it was not overthrown because it was grounded on the rock. And whosoever heareth of me these sayings, and doth not the same, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand, and abundance of rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house, and it was overthrown, and great was the fall of it.
And it came to pass, that when Iesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonied at his doctrine. For he taught them as one having power, and not as the scribes.
The .viij. Chapter.
When Iesus was come down from the mountain, much people followed him. And lo, there came a leper, and worshipped him saying: master, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. He put forth his hand and touched him saying: I will, be clean, and immediately his leprosy was cleansed. And Iesus said unto him. See thou tell no man, but go and shew thyself to the priest and offer the gift, that Moses commanded to be offered in witness to them.
When Iesus was entered into Capernaum, there came unto him a certain Centurion, beseching him, and saying: master, my servant lieth sick at home of the palsy, and is grievously pained. And Iesus said unto him: I will come and cure him. The Centurion answered and said: Sir, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under the roof of my house, but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. For I also myself am a man under power, and have soldiers under me, and I say to one, go, and he goeth: and to another, come, and he cometh: and to my servant, do this, and he doeth it. When Iesus heard these sayings: he marvelled, and said to them that followed him: Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith: no, not in Israell. I say therefore unto you, that many shall come from the east and west, and shall rest with Abraham, Isaac, and Iacob, in the kingdom of heaven: and the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into the utmost darkness, there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. Then Iesus said unto the Centurion, go thy way, and as thou believed so be it unto thee. And his servant was healed that same hour.
And Iesus went to Peter's house, and saw his wife's mother lying sick of a fever, and he touched her hand, and the fever left her: and she arose, and ministered unto them.
When the even was come they brought unto him many that were possessed with devils, and he cast out the spirits with a word, and healed all that were sick, to fulfil that which was spoken by Esay the prophet saying: he took on him our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.
When Iesus saw much people about him, he commanded to go over the water. And there came a scribe and said unto him: master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. And Iesus said unto him: the foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests, but the son of the man hath not whereon to lay his head: Another that was one of his Disciples said unto him: master suffer me first, to go and bury my father. But Iesus said unto him: follow me, and let the dead bury their dead.
And he entered into a ship, and his Disciples followed him. And lo there arose a great storm in the sea, insomuch, that the ship was hid with waves, and he was asleep. And his Disciples came unto him, and awoke him, saying: master, save us, we perish. And he said unto them: why are ye fearful, o ye endowed with little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there followed a great calm. And men marvelled and said: what man is this, that both winds and sea obey him?
And when he was come to the other side, into the country of the Gergesites, there met him two possessed of devils, which came out of the graves, and were out of measure fierce, so that no man might go by that way. And lo they cried out saying: O Iesu the son of God, what have we to do with thee? art thou come hither to torment us before the time be come? There was a good way off from them a great herd of swine feeding. Then the devils besought him saying: if thou cast us out, suffer us to go our way into the herd of swine. And he said unto them: go your ways. Then went they out, and departed into the herd of swine. And lo, all the herd of swine was carried with violence headlong into the sea, and perished in the water. Then the herdsmen, fled and went their ways into the city, and told everything, and what had fortuned unto them that were possessed of the devils. And lo, all the city came out, and met Iesus. And when they saw him they besought him, to depart out of their coasts.
The .ix. Chapter.
And he entered into a ship: and passed over and came into his own city. And lo, they brought unto him a man sick of the palsy, lying in his bed. And when Iesus saw their faith, he said to the sick of the palsy: son be of good cheer, thy sins be forgiven thee. And lo certain of the scribes said in themselves, he blasphemeth. And when Iesus saw their thoughts, he said: wherefore think ye evil in your hearts? Whether is easier to say, thy sins be forgiven thee, or to say: arise and walk? That ye may know, that the son of man hath power to forgive sins in earth, then said he unto the sick of the palsy: arise, take up thy bed, and go home to thine house. And he arose and departed to his house. The people that saw it, marvelled and glorified God, which had given such power to men.
And as Iesus passed forth from thence he saw a man sit at the receit of custom named Matthew, and said to him: follow me. And he arose and followed him. And it came to pass, that Iesus sat at meat in his house. And lo, many publicans and sinners, came and sat down also with Iesus, and his disciples. When the pharisees had perceived that, they said unto his disciples: why eateth your master with publicans and sinners? When Iesus heard that, he said unto them: The whole need not the physician, but they that are sick. Go and learn, what that meaneth: I have pleasure in mercy, and not in offering. For I am not come to call the righteous, but the sinners to repentance.
Then came the disciples of Ihon to him, saying: why do we and the pharisees fast oft, but thy disciples fast not? And Iesus said unto them: can the wedding children mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The time will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and then shall they fast. No man pieceth an old garment with a piece of new cloth. For then taketh he away the piece again from the garment, and the rent is made worse. Neither do men put new wine, into old vessels: for then the vessels break, and the wine runneth out, and the vessels perish. But they pour new wine into new vessels, and so are both saved together.
While he thus spake unto them, lo, there came a certain ruler, and worshipped him saying: my daughter is dead already, but come, and lay thy hand on her, and she shall live. And Iesus arose and followed him, with his disciples. And behold, a woman which was diseased with an issue of blood xij. years, came behind him and touched the hem of his vesture. For she said in herself: If I may touch but even his vesture only I shall be safe. Iesus turned him about, and beheld her, saying: daughter be of good comfort, thy faith hath made thee safe. And she was made whole even that same hour.
And when Iesus came into the ruler's house, and saw the minstrels and the people wondering, he said unto them: Get you hence, for the maid is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn. As soon as the people were put forth adoors, he went in and took her by the hand, and the maid arose. And this was noised throughout all that land.
And as Iesus departed thence, two blind men followed him crying, and saying: O thou son of David, have mercy on us. And when he was come into the house, the blind came to him. And Iesus said unto them believe ye that I am able to do this? they said unto him yea master. Then touched he their eyes saying: according to your faith, be it unto you. And their eyes were opened. And he charged them, saying: see that no man know of it. But they as soon as they were departed, spread abroad his name through out all the land.
As they went out, behold, they brought to him a dumb man possessed of a devil. And as soon as the devil was cast out, the dumb spake. And the people marvelled, saying: it never so appeared in Israhel. But the pharisees said: he casteth out devils, by the power of the chief devil.
And Iesus went about all cities and towns, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospell of the kingdom. And healing all manner sickness and disease among the people. But when he saw the people, he had pity on them, because they were pined away, and scattered abroad even as sheep, having no shepherd. Then said he to his disciples: the harvest is great, but the laborers are few. Wherefore pray the harvest lord, to send forth laborers into his harvest.
The .x. Chapter.
And he called his xij. disciples unto him, and gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sicknesses, and all manner of diseases.
The names of the xij. apostles are these. The first Simon which is called Peter: and Andrew his brother. Iames the son of Zebedee, and Ihon his brother. Philip and Bartholomew. Thomas and Matthew the publican. Iames the son of Alphe and Lebbeus, otherwise called Thaddeus. Simon of Chane, and Iudas Iscariot, which also betrayed him.
These xij. sent Iesus, and commanded them saying: Go not into the ways that lead to the gentiles, and in to the cities of the samaritans enter ye not: But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israhel. Go and preach saying: how the kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out the devils. Freely ye have received, freely give again. Possess not gold, nor silver, neither brass in your girdles, nor yet scrip towards your journey. Neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet a rod: for the workman is worthy to have his meat. Into whatsoever city, or town ye shall come, enquire who is worthy in it, and there abide till ye go thence.
And when ye come into an house greet the same. And if the house be worthy, your peace shall come upon the same. But if it be not worthy, your peace shall return to you again. And whosoever shall not receive you, nor will hear your preaching, when ye depart out of that house, or that city, shake off the dust of your feet. Truly I say unto you, it shall be easier for the land of Sodom, and Gomorra, in the day of judgement, than for that city.
Lo I send you forth, as sheep among wolves. Be ye therefore wise as serpents, and innocent as doves. Beware of men, for they shall deliver you up to the councils, and shall scourge you in their synagogues. And ye shall be brought to the head rulers and kings for my sake, in witness to them and to the gentiles.
But when they put you up take no thought, how, or what ye shall speak, for it shall be given you even in that same hour, what ye shall say. For it is not ye that speak, but the spirit of your father which speaketh in you. The brother shall betray the brother to death, and the father the son. And the children shall arise against their fathers, and mothers, and shall put them to death, and ye shall be hated of all men, for my name. But whosoever shall continue unto the end, shall be saved.
When they persecute you in one city, fly into another. I tell you for a truth, ye shall not finish all the cities of Israhel, till the son of man be come. The disciple is not above his master: Nor yet the servant above his lord. It is enough for the disciple to be as his master is, and that the servant be as his lord is. If they have called the lord of the house beelzebub: how much more shall they call them of his household so? Fear them not therefore.
There is nothing so close, that shall not be opened, and nothing so hid, that shall not be known.
What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light. And what ye hear in the ear that preach ye on the house tops.
And fear ye not them which kill the body, and be not able to kill the soul. But rather fear him, which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? And none of them doth light on the ground, without your father. And now are all the hairs of your heads numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value, than many sparrows.
Whosoever therefore knowledgeth me before men, him will I knowledge before my father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also deny before my father which is in heaven.
Think not, that I am come to send peace into the earth. I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law: And a man's foes shall be, they of his own household.
He that loveth his father, or mother more than me, is not worthy of me. And he that loveth his son, or daughter more than me, is not meet for me. And he that taketh not his cross and followeth me, is not meet for me. He that findeth his life, shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake, shall find it.
He that receiveth you, receiveth me: and he that receiveth me, receiveth him that sent me. He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet, shall receive a prophet's reward. And he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man, shall receive the reward of a righteous man. And whosoever shall give unto one of these little ones to, drink a cup of cold water only, in the name of a disciple: I tell you of a truth, he shall not lose his reward.
The .xj. Chapter.
And it came to pass when Iesus had ended his precepts unto his disciples, he departed thence, to preach and teach in their cities.
When Ihon being in prison heard the works of christ, he sent two of his disciples and said unto him. Art thou he that shall come: or shall we look for another. Iesus answered and said unto them. Go and shew Ihon what ye have heard and seen. The blind see, the halt go, the lepers are cleansed: The deaf hear, the dead are raised up again, and the gospel is preached to the poor. And happy is he that is not hurt by me.
Even as they departed, Iesus began to speak unto the people of Ihon. What went ye for to see in the wilderness? went ye out to see a reed wavering with the wind? other what went ye out for to see? went ye to see a man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings' houses. But what went ye out for to see? went ye out to see, a prophet? Yea I say unto you, and more than a prophet. For this is he of whom it is written. Behold, I send my messenger before thy face which shall prepare thy way before thee.
Verify I say unto you, among the children of women arose there not a greater than Ihon baptist. Notwithstanding he that is less in the kingdom of heaven, is greater than he. From the time of Ihon baptist hitherto, the kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and they that make violence pulleth it to them. For all the prophets, and the law prophesied unto the time of Ihon. Also if ye will receive it, this is Helyas, which should come. He that hath ears to hear whithall, let him hear.
But whereunto shall I liken this generation? it is like unto children, which sit in the market, and call unto their fellows, and say: we have piped unto you, and ye have not danced, we have mourned unto you, and ye have not sorrowed. For Ihon came, neither eating nor drinking, and they say, he hath the devil. The son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, behold a glutton, and drinker of wine, and a friend unto publicans, and sinners. And wisdom is justified of her children.
Then began he to upbraid the cities, in which most of his miracles were done, because they did not repent. Woe be to thee Chorasin. Woe be to thee Bethsaida, for if the miracles which were shewed in you, had been done in Tyre and in Sidon: they had repented long agone in sackcloth and ashes. Nevertheless I say to you, it shall be easier for Tyre and Sidon, at the day of judgement, than for you. And thou Capernaum, which art lift up unto heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell. For if the miracles which have been done in thee, had been shewed in Sodom, they had remained to this day. Nevertheless I say unto you, it shall be easier for Sodom in the day of judgement, than for thee. Then Iesus answered and said. I praise thee o father lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast opened them unto babes, even so father, for so it pleased thee. All things are given unto me of my father. And no man knoweth the son, but thy father neither knoweth any man the father, save the son, and he to whom the son will open him.
Come unto me all ye that labor, and are laden, and I will ease you. Take my yoke on you, and learn of me, for I am meek, and lowly in heart: and ye shall find ease unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
The .xij. Chapter.
In that time went Iesus on the sabbath day thorow the corn, and his disciples were anhungered, and began to pluck the ears of corn, and to eat. When the pharisees had seen that, they said unto him: Behold thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day. He said unto them: Have ye not read what David did, when he was anhungered, and they also which were with him? How he entered into the house of God, and ate the hallowed loaves, which were not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests. Or have ye not read in the law, how that the priests in the temple break the sabbath day, and yet are blameless? But I say unto you, that here is one greater than the temple. Wherefore if ye had wist, what this saying meaneth: I require mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would never have condemned innocents. For the son of man is lord even of the Sabbath day.
And he departed thence, and went into their synagogue, and behold, there was a man, which had his hand dried up. And they asked him saying: is it lawful to heal upon the sabbath day? because they might accuse him. And he said unto them: which is he among you, if he had a sheep fallen into a pit on the sabbath day, that would not take him and lift him out? And how much is a man better then a sheep? Wherefore it is lawful to do a good deed on the sabbath day. Then said he to the man: stretch forth thy hand, and he stretched forth, and it was again made even as whole as the other.
Then the pharisees went forth, and took council against him, how they might destroy him. When Iesus knew that, he departed thence, and much people followed him, and he healed them all. and charged them, that they should not make him known, to fulfil that which was spoken by Esay the prophet, which sayeth: Behold my son, whom I have chosen, my darling, in whom my soul hath had delight. I will put my spirit on him, and he shall shew judgement to the gentiles. He shall not strive, he shall not cry, neither shall any man hear his voice in the streets, a bruised reed, shall he not break, and flax that beginneth to burn he shall not quench, till he send forth judgement unto victory, and in his name shall the gentiles trust.
Then was brought to him, one possessed with a devil which was both blind and dumb, and he healed him, insomuch that he which was blind and dumb, both spake and saw. And all the people were amazed, and said: Is not this the son of David? When the pharisees heard that, they said: he driveth the devils no other wise out, but by the help of belzebub the chief of the devils.
But Iesus knew their thoughts, and said to them. Every kingdom divided with in itself shall be desolate. Neither shall any city or household divided against itself, continue. So if satan cast out satan, then is he divided against him self. How shall then his kingdom endure? Also if I by the help of belzebub cast out devils: by whose help do your children cast them out? therefore they shall be your judges: But if I cast out the devils by the spirit of God: then is the kingdom of God come on you?
Either how can a man enter into a mighty man's house, and violently take away his goods, except he first bind the strong man, and then spoil his house? He that is not with me, is against me: And he that gathereth not with me, scattereth abroad. Wherefore I say unto you, all manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men, but the blasphemy against the holy ghost, shall not be forgiven unto men. And whosoever speaketh a word against the son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the holy ghost, it shall not be forgiven him: no, neither in this world, neither in the world to come.
Either make the tree good, and his fruit good also, or else make the tree evil, and his fruit evil also. For the tree is known by his fruit. O generation of vipers, how can ye say well, when ye yourselves are evil? For of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaketh. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart, bringeth forth good things. And an evil man out of his evil treasure, bringeth forth evil things. But I say unto you, that of every idle word, that men shall have spoken, they shall give accounts at the day of judgement. For by thy words thou shalt be justified: and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.
Then answered certain of the scribes and of the pharisees saying: Master, we would fain see a sign of thee. He answered them saying: the evil and advoutrous generation seeketh a sign, but there shall no sign be given to them, but the sign of the prophet Ionas. For as Ionas was iij days, and iij nights, in the whale's belly: so shall the son of man be iij days and iij nights in the heart of the earth. The men of Nineveh shall rise at the day of judgement, with this nation, and condemn them: for they repented at the preaching of Ionas. And behold a greater than Ionas is here. The queen of the south shall rise at the day of judgement with this generation, and shall condemn them: for she came from the utmost parts of the world, to hear the wisdom of Solomon. And behold here is a greater than Solomon.
When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh throughout dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none. Then he sayeth: I will return again into my house, from whence I came out. And when he is come, he findeth the house empty and swept, and garnished. Then he goeth his way, and taketh vij. spirits worse than him self, and so enter they in and dwell there. And the end of that man is worse than the beginning. Even so shall it be to this froward nation.
While he yet talked to the people: behold, his mother and his brethren stood without the doors, desiring to speak with him. Then one said unto him: behold thy mother and thy brethren stand without, desiring to speak with thee.
He answered and said to him that told him: Who is my mother? or who are my brethren? And he stretched forth his hand over his disciples, and said: Behold my mother and my brethren. For whosoever fulfilleth my father's will which is in heaven, he is my brother, my sister, and my mother.
The .xiij. Chapter.
The same day went Iesus out of the house, and sat by the sea side, and much people resorted unto him, so greatly that he went, and sat in a ship, and all the people stood on the shore. And he spake many things to them in similitudes, saying: Behold, the sower went forth to sow, and as he sowed, some fell by the ways side, and the fowls came, and devoured it up. Some fell upon stony ground where it had not much earth, and anon it sprong up, because it had no depth of earth: and when the sun was up, it caught heat, and for lack of rooting withered away. Some fell among thorns, and the thorns arose, and choked it. Part fell in good ground, and brought forth good fruit: some an hundred fold, some fifty {or sixty} fold, some thirty fold. Whosoever hath ears to hear, let him hear.
And his disciples came, and said to him: Why speakest thou to them in parables? He answered and said unto them: It is given unto you to know the secrets of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. For whosoever hath, to him shall be given: and he shall have abundance. But whosoever hath not: from him shall be taken away even that same that he hath. Therefore speak I to them in similitudes: for though they see, they see not: and hearing they hear not: nether understand. And in them is fulfilled the prophecy of Esay, which prophecy saith: with your ears ye shall hear, and shall not understand, and with your eyes ye shall see, and shall not perceive. For this people's heart is waxed gross: And their ears were dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed, lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand with their hearts, and should turn, that I might heal them.
But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. Verily I say unto you, that many prophets and perfect men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them: and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them. Hear ye therefore the similitude of the sower. When a man heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, there cometh the evil man, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. And this is he which was sown by the way side. But he that was sown in the stony ground is he, which heareth the word of God, and anon with joy receiveth it, yet hath no roots in himself, and therefore dureth but a season: for as soon as tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he falleth. He that was sown among thorns, is he, that heareth the word of God, but the care of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and so is he made unfruitful. He which is sown in the good ground, is he, that heareth the word and understandeth it, which also beareth fruit and bringeth forth, some an hundred fold, some fifty {or sixty} fold, and some thirty fold.
Another similitude put he forth, unto them saying: The kingdom of heaven is like unto a man which sowed good seed in his field. But while men slept, there came his foe, and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. When the blade was sprung up, and had brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. The servants came to the householder, and said unto him: Sir sowest not thou good seed in thy close, from whence then hath it tares? He said to them, the envious man hath done this. Then the servants said unto him: wilt thou then that we go and gather it? and he said, nay, lest while ye go about to weed out the tares, ye pluck up also with them the wheat by the roots: let both grow together till harvest come, and in time of harvest, I will say yea unto my reapers, gather ye first the tares, and bind them in sheaves to be brent: but gather the wheat into my barn.
Another parable he put forth unto them saying. The kingdom of heaven is like unto a grain of mustard seed, which a man taketh and soweth in his field, which is the least of all seeds. But when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and is a tree: so that the birds of the air come, and build in the branches of it.
Another similitude said he to them. The kingdom of heaven is like unto leaven which a woman took and hideth in iij pecks of meal, till all was leavened.
All these things spake Iesus unto the people by similitudes, and without similitudes spake he nothing to them, to fulfil that which was spoken by the prophet saying: I will open my mouth in similitudes, and will speak forth things which have been kept secret from the beginning of the world.
Then sent Iesus the people away, and came to house, and his disciples came unto him, saying: declare unto us the similitude of the tares of the field: Then answered he and said to them. He that soweth the good seed, is the son of man, the field is the world. The children of the kingdom are the good seed. The evil man's children are the tares. But the enemy which soweth it, is the devil. The harvest is the end of the world, and the reapers be the angels. For even as the tares are gathered, and brent in the fire: so shall it be in the end of this world. The son of man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of his kingdom all things that do hurt, and all them which do iniquity, and shall cast them into a furnace of fire. There shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth. Then shall the just men shine as bright as the son in the kingdom of their father. whosoever hath ears to hear, let him hear.
Again the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in the field, the which a man found and hid it: and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field.
Again the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant, seeking good pearls, which when he had found one precious pearl, went and sold all that he had, and bought it.
Again the kingdom of heaven is like unto a net cast into the sea, that gathereth of all kinds of fishes: the which when it is full, men draw to land, and sit and gather the good into their vessels and cast the bad away. So shall it be at the end of the world. The angels shall come and sever the bad from the good, and shall cast them into a furnace of fire, there shall be wailing and gnashing of teeth.
Iesus said unto them: have ye understood all these things: they said, yea sir. Then said he unto them: Therefore every scribe which is conning unto the kingdom of heaven, is like an householder, which bringeth forth, out of his treasure, things both new and old.
And it came to pass when Iesus had finished these similitudes that he departed thence, and came in to his own country, and taught them in their synagogues, in so much that they were astonied, and said: whence came all this wisdom and power unto him? is not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? and his brethren be called, Iames and Ioses and Simon and Iudas? and are not his sisters all here with us? Whence hath he all these things. And they were hurt by him. Then Iesus said unto them: there is no prophet without honour, save in his own country, and among his own kin. And he did not many miracles there, for their unbelief's sake.
The .xiiij. Chapter.
In that time Herod the tetrarcha heard of the fame of Iesu, and said unto his servants: This is Ihon baptist, he is risen again from death, and therefore his power is so great. For Herod took Ihon and bound him, and put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife: for Ihon said unto him: it is not lawful for thee to have her. And when he would have put him to death, he feared the people, because they counted him as a prophet.
When Herode's birthday was come, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod. Wherefore he promised with an oath, that he would give her whatsoever she would ask. And she being informed of her mother before, said give me here Ihon baptist's head in a platter. And the King sorrowed: nevertheless for his oath's sake, and for their sakes which sat also at the table, he commanded it to be given her. And sent and beheaded Ihon in the prison: and his head was brought in a platter, and given to the damsel, and she brought it to her mother. And his disciples came, and took up his body, and buried it: And went and told Iesus.
When Iesus heard that, he departed thence by ship into a desert place out of the way. And when the people had heard thereof, they followed him afoot out of their cities. And Iesus went forth and saw much people: and his heart did melt upon them, and he healed of them those that were sick. When even was come, his disciples came to him saying. This is a desert place, and the day is spent, let the people depart that they may go into the towns, and buy them vitailles. But Iesus said unto them: They have no need to go away: Give ye them to eat. Then said they unto him: we have here but v. loaves, and two fishes. He said: bring them hither to me. And he commanded, the people to sit down on the grass, and took the v. loaves, and the ij. fishes, and looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake and gave the loaves to his disciples, and the disciples gave them to the people. And they all ate, and were sufficed. And they gathered up of the gobbets that remained xij baskets full. They that ate were in number about v. M. men, besides women and children.
And straightway Iesus made his disciples enter into a ship, and to go over before him, while he sent the people away. And as soon as he had sent the people away, he went up into a mountain alone to pray. And when night was come he was there himself alone. and the ship was in the middes of the sea, and was tossed with waves, for it was a contrary wind. In the fourth watch of the night Iesus came unto them walking on the sea: and when his disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were amazed, saying: it is some spirit, and cried out for fear. And straightway Iesus spake unto them saying: be of good cheer, it is I, be not afraid.
Peter answered, and said: master, and thou be he, bid me come unto thee on the water. and he said come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Iesus. But when he saw a mighty wind, he was afraid. And as he began to sink, he cried saying: master save me. And immediately Iesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said to him: O thou of little faith: wherefore didst thou doubt? And as soon as they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying: of a truth thou art the son of God. And when they were come over, they went in to the land of Genazareth. And when the men of that place had knowledge of him, they sent out into all that country round about, and brought unto him all that were sick, and besought him, that they might touch the border of his vesture only. And as many as touched it, were made safe.
The .xv. Chapter.
Then came to Iesus: scribes and pharisees from Ierusalem, saying: why do thy disciples transgress the traditions of the seniors? for they wash not their hands, when they eat bread. He answered, and said unto them: why do ye also transgress the commandment of God, thorow your traditions? for God commanded, saying: honour thy father and mother, and he that speaketh evil against his father or mother, shall suffer death. But ye say, every man shall say to his father or mother: whatsoever thing I offer, that same doth profit thee, and so shall he not honour his father and mother. And thus have ye made, that the commandment of God is with out effect, through your traditions. Hypocrites, well prophesied of you, Esay saying: This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouths, and honoureth me with their lips, yet their hearts are far from me: but in vain they worship me teaching doctrine, which is nothing but men's precepts.
And he called the people unto him, and said to them: hear and understand. That which goeth into the mouth, defileth not the man: but that which cometh out of the mouth, defileth the man.
Then came his disciples, and said unto him: perceivest thou, how that the pharisees are offended hearing this saying? He answered, and said: all plants which my heavenly father hath not planted, shall be plucked up by the roots. Let them alone, they be the blind leaders of the blind. If the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.
Then answered Peter and said to him: declare unto us this parable. Then said Iesus: are ye yet withouten understanding: perceive ye not, that whatsoever goeth in at the mouth, descendeth down into the belly, and is cast out into the draught? But those things which proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and they defile a man. For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, breaking of wedlock, whoredom, theft, false witness bearing, blasphemy. These are the things which defile a man. But to eat with unwashen hands, defileth not a man.
And Iesus went thence, and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon. And behold a woman which was a Canaanite came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying: have mercy on me lord the son of David, my daughter is piteously vexed with a devil. And he gave her never a word to answer. Then came to him his disciples, and besought him saying: send her away, for she followeth us crying. He answered, and said: I am not sent, but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israhel. Then she came and worshipped him, saying: master succor me. He answered and said: it is not good, to take the children's bread, and to cast it to whelps. She answered and said: it is truth, nevertheless the whelps eat of the crumbs, which fall from their masters' table. Then Iesus answered and said unto her. O woman great is thy faith, be it to thee, even as thou desirest. And her daughter was made whole even at that same time.
Then Iesus went away from thence, and came nigh unto the sea of Galilee, and went up in to a mountain, and sat down there. And much people came unto him, having with them, halt, blind, dumb, maimed, and other many: and cast them down at Iesus' feet. And he healed them, in so much that the people wondered, to see the dumb speak, the maimed whole, and the halt to go, the blind to see, and glorified the God of Israhel.
Iesus called his disciples to him and said: I have compassion on the people because they have continued with me now iij days, and have nothing to eat: and I will not let them depart fasting lest they perish in the way. And his disciples said unto him: whence should we get so much bread in the wilderness as should suffice so great a multitude? And Iesus said unto them: how many loaves have ye? and they said: seven and a few fishes. And he commanded the people to sit down on the ground. And took the seven loaves, and the fishes, and gave thanks, and brake them, and gave to his disciples, and his disciples gave them to the people. And they all ate and were sufficed. And they took up of the broken meat that was left vij baskets full. They that ate were iiij M men, beside women and children. And he sent away the people, and took ship and came into the parts of Magdala.
The .xvj. Chapter.
Then came to him the pharisees with the sadducees also, and did tempt him, desiring that he would shew them some sign from heaven. He answered and said unto them: At even ye say, we shall have fair weather, and that because the sky is red: in the morning: ye say, today shall be foul weather, and that because the sky is tremulous and red. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the fashion of the sky: and can ye not discern the signs of the times? The froward nation, and advoutrous, seeketh a sign: there shall none other sign be given unto them, but the sign of the prophet Ionas. So left he them and departed.
And when his disciples were come to the other side of the water, they had forgotten to take bread with them. Then Iesus said unto them: Take heed and beware of the leaven of the pharisees and of the sadducees. They thought among themselves saying: we have brought no bread with us. When Iesus understood that, he said unto them. O ye of little faith, why are your minds cumbered because ye have brought no bread? Do ye not yet perceive, neither remember those v loaves when there were v M men, and how many baskets took ye up? Neither the vij loaves, when there were iiij M: and how many baskets took ye up? Why perceive ye not then, that I spake not unto you of bread, when I said, beware of the leaven of the pharisees and of the sadducees? Then understood they, how that he bade not them beware of the leaven of bread: but of the doctrine of the pharisees, and of the sadducees.
When Iesus came into the coasts of the city which is called Cesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples saying: whom do men say that I the son of man am? They said, some say that thou art Ihon baptist, some Helyas, some Ieremias, or one of the prophets. He said unto them, but whom say ye that I am? Simon Peter answered, and said: Thou art Christ the son of the living God. And Iesus answered and said to him: happy art thou Simon the son of Ionas, for flesh and blood have not opened unto thee that, but my father which is in heaven. And I say also unto thee, that thou art Peter. And upon this rock I will build my congregation: and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee, the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatsoever thou bindest upon earth, it shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou lowsest on earth, it shall be lowsed in heaven.
Then he charged his disciples, that they should tell no man, that he was Iesus Christ. From that time forth, Iesus began to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Ierusalem, and suffer many things of the seniors, and of the high priests, and of the scribes, and must be killed, and rise again the third day. Peter took him aside, and began to rebuke him saying: master favor thy self, this shall not come unto thee. Then turned he about, and said unto Peter: go after me Satan, thou offendest me, because thou perceivest not godly things: but worldly things.
Iesus then said to his disciples. If any man will follow me, let him forsake himself, and take up his cross and follow me. For whosoever will save his life, shall loose it. And whosoever shall loose his life for my sake, shall find it. What shall it profit a man, if he should win all the whole world: so he loose his own soul? Or else what shall a man give to redeem his soul again withall? For the son of man shall come in the glory of his father, with his angels, and then shall he reward every man according to his deeds. Verily I say unto you, some there be among them that here stand, which shall not taste of death, till they shall have seen the son of man come in his kingdom.
The .xvij. Chapter.
And after vj days Iesus took Peter and Iames and Ihon his brother, and brought them up into an high mountain out of the way, and was transfigured before them: and his face did shine as the sun, and his clothes were as white as the light. And behold there appeared unto them Moses and Helyas talking with him. Then answered Peter, and said to Iesus: master here is good being for us. If thou wilt, let us make here iij tabernacles, one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Helyas. While he yet spake, behold a bright cloud shadowed them. And lo a voice out of the cloud said: This is my dear son, in whom I delight, hear him. And when the disciples heard that, they fell on their faces, and were sore afraid. And Iesus came and touched them, and said: arise and be not afraid. Then lift they up their eyes, and saw no man, but Iesus only.
And as they came down from the mountain, he charged them saying, see that ye shew this vision to no man, til the son of man be risen again from death. And his disciples asked of him, saying: Why then say the scribes, that Helias must first come? Iesus answered, and said unto them: Helias shall first come, and restore all things. And I say unto you, that Helias is come already: And they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they lusted. In likewise shall also the son of man suffer of them. Then his disciples perceived that he spake unto them of Ihon baptist.
And when they were come to the people, there came to him a certain man, and kneeled down to him saying: Master have mercy on my son, for he is frantic, and is sore vexed. And ofttimes falleth into the fire, and oft into the water, and I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not heal him. Iesus answered and said: O generation faithless and crooked: how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. And Iesus rebuked the devil, and he came out. And the child was healed even that same hour.
Then came his disciples secretly and said: Why could not we cast him out? Iesus said unto them, because of your unbelief. For I say verily unto you, if ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye should say unto this mountain, remove hence to yonder place, and he should remove: Neither should any thing be unpossible for you to do. But this kind, goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.
While they passed the time in Galilee, Iesus said unto them: the son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of men, and they shall kill him, and the third day he shall rise again. And they sorrowed greatly.
When they were come to Capernaum: They that were wont to gather poll money, came to Peter and said: Doth your master pay tribute? He said: yea. And when he was come into the house, Iesus spake first to him, saying: What thinkest thou Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take tribute, or poll money? of their children, or of strangers? Peter said unto him, of strangers. Then said Iesus unto him again. Then are the children free. Nevertheless, lest we should offend them, go to the sea and cast in thine angle, and take the fish that first cometh up: and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of twelve {or twenty} pence, that take and pay for me and thee.
The .xviij. Chapter.
The same time the disciples came to Iesus saying: who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? Iesus called a child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said: Verily I say unto you, except ye turn, and become as children, ye cannot enter into the kingdom of heaven: whosoever therefore: shall submit himself: as this child, he is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whosoever receiveth such a child in my name, receiveth me. But whosoever offend one of these little ones, which believe in me: it were better for him, that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe be unto the world because of evil occasions. It is necessary that evil occasions be given, nevertheless woe be to that man, by whom evil occasion cometh. Wherefore if thy hand, or thy foot, give thee an occasion of evil: cut him off, and cast him from thee. It is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than thou shouldest having two hands, or two feet, be cast into everlasting fire. And if also thine eye offend thee, pluck him out and cast him from thee. It is better for thee, to enter into life with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hellfire.
See that ye despise not one of these little ones. For I say unto you, that in heaven their angels behold the face of my father, which is in heaven. Yea and the son of man is come to save that which is lost. How think ye? If a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them should go astray, will he not leave ninety and nine in the mountains, and go and seek that one which is gone astray? If it happen that he find him, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, then of the ninety and nine which went not astray. Even so it is not the will of your father in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.
Moreover if thy brother trespass against thee. Go and tell him his fault between him and thee alone. If he hear thee, thou hast won thy brother: but if he hear thee not, then take yet with thee one or two, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses, all things may stand. If he hear not them, tell it unto the congregation: if he hear not the congregation, take him as an heathen man, and as a publican. Verily I say unto you whatsoever ye bind on earth, shall be bound in heaven. And whatsoever ye lowse on earth, shall be lowsed in heaven.
Again I say unto you that if two of you shall agree in earth in any manner thing whatsoever they shall desire: it shall be given them of my father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
Then came Peter to him, and said: master, how oft shall my brother trespass against me, and I shall forgive him? shall I forgive him seven times? Iesus said unto him: I say not unto thee seven times: but seventy times seven times. Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take accounts of his servants, and when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which ought him ten thousand talents: but when he had nought to pay, the lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and his children: and all that he had, and payment to be made. The servant fell down and besought him saying: Sir, give me respite, and I will pay it every whit. Then had the lord pity on that servant, and lowsed him, and forgave him the debt.
The same servant went out and found one of his fellows, which ought him an hundred pence. And laid hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying: pay that thou owest. And his fellow fell down, and besought him, saying: have patience with me, and I will pay thee all. And he would not, but went and cast him into prison, till he should pay the debt. When his other fellows saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that had happened. Then the lord called him, and said unto him. O evil servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because thou praydest me: was it not mete also, that thou shouldest have had compassion on thy fellow, even as I had pity on thee? And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the jailers, till he should pay all that was due to him. So likewise shall your heavenly father do unto you, if ye will not forgive with your hearts, each one to his brother their trespasses.
The .xix. Chapter.
And it followed when Iesus had finished those sayings, he gat him from Galilee, and came into the coasts off Iewry beyond Iordan, and much people followed him, and he healed them there. Then came unto him the pharisees to tempt him, and said to him: Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for all manner of causes? He answered, and said unto them: Have ye not read, how that he which made man at the beginning, made them man and woman? and said: for this thing, shall a man leave father and mother, and cleave unto his wife, and they twain shall be one flesh. Wherefore now are they not twain, but one flesh. Let not man therefore put asunder, that which God hath coupled together. Then said they to him: why did Moses command to give unto her a testimonial of divorcement, and to put her away? He said unto them: Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: But from the beginning it was not so. I say therefore unto you, whosoever putteth away his wife (except it be for fornication) and marrieth another, breaketh wedlock. And whosoever marrieth her which is divorced, doth commit advoutry.
Then spake his disciples to him: if the matter be so between man and wife, then is it not good to marry. He said unto them: all men cannot away with that saying: but they to whom it is given. There are chaste, which were so born out of their mother's belly. And there are chaste, which be made chaste of men. And there be chaste, which have made themselves chaste for the kingdom of heavens' sake. He that can take it let him take it.
Then were brought to him young children, that he should put his hands on them and pray. And his disciples rebuked them. Iesus said unto them: suffer the children, and forbid them not to come to me, for unto such belongeth the kingdom of heaven. And when he had put his hands on them, he departed thence. And behold one came, and said unto him: good master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? He said unto him: why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, and that is God. But and thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He said: Which? And Iesus said: thou shalt not kill: thou shalt not break wedlock. Thou shall not steal: thou shalt not bear false witness. Honour father and mother: and thou shalt love thine neighbor as thyself. The young man said unto him: I have observed all these things from my youth, what have I more to do? Iesus said unto him: if thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give it to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven, and come and follow me. When the young man heard that saying, he went away mourning. For he had great possessions.
Iesus said then unto his disciples: Verily I say unto you, a rich man shall with difficulty enter into the kingdom of heaven. And moreover I say unto you: it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of Heaven. When his disciples heard that, they were exceedingly amazed, saying: who then can be saved? Iesus beheld them, and said unto them: with men this is unpossible, but with God all things are possible.
Then answered Peter, and said to him: Behold, we have forsaken all and have followed thee: what shall we have therefore? Iesus said unto them: verily I say unto you: that ye which have followed me in the second generation (when the son of man shall sit in the seat of his majesty) shall sit also upon xij seats, and judge the xij tribes of Israhel. And whosoever forsaketh house, or brethren, or sisters, other father, or mother, or wife, or children, or livelihood, {or lands,} for my name's sake, the same shall receive an hundred fold, and shall inherit everlasting life. Many that are first, shall be last, and the last, shall be first.
The .xx. Chapter.
For the kingdom of heaven is like unto an householder which went out early in the morning to hire laborers into his vineyard. And he agreed with the laborers for a penny a day and sent them into his vineyard. And he went out about the third hour, and saw other standing idle in the market place, and said unto them: go ye also into my vineyard, and whatsoever is right, I will give you: and they went their way. Again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise. And he went out about the eleventh hour and found other standing idle, and said unto them: Why stand ye here all the day idle? They said unto him: because no man hath hired us. He said to them: go ye also into my vineyard, and whatsoever shall be right, that shall ye receive.
When even was come, the lord of the vineyard, said unto his steward: call the laborers, and give them their hire, beginning at the last, till thou come to the first. And they which were hired about the eleventh hour, came and received every man a penny. Then came the first, supposing that they should receive more, and they likewise received every man a penny. And when they had received it, they grudged against the good man of the house saying: These last have wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us which have borne the burden and heat of the day.
He answered to one of them, saying: friend I do thee no wrong: didst thou not agree with me for a penny? Take that which is thy duty, and go thy way. I will give unto this last, as much as to thee. Is it not lawful for me to do as me listeth with mine own? Is thine eye evil because I am good? So the last shall be first, and the first shall be last. For many are called, and few be chosen.
And Iesus ascended to Ierusalem, and took the xij disciples apart in the way, and said to them: Lo we go up to Ierusalem, and the son of man shall be betrayed unto the chief priests, and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver him to the gentiles, to be mocked, to be scourged, and to be crucified: and the third day he shall rise again.
Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him. He said unto her: What wilt thou have? She said unto him: Grant that these my two sons may sit, one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand in thy kingdom.
Iesus answered, and said: Ye wot not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of? And to be baptised with the baptism, that I shall be baptised with? They answered to him: That we are. He said unto them: Ye shall drink of my cup, and shall be baptised with the baptism that I shall be baptised with all. But to sit on my right hand, and on my left hand, is not mine to give you: but to them for whom it is prepared of my father.
And when the ten heard this, they disdained at the two brethren. But Iesus called them unto him, and said: Ye know, that the lords of the gentiles have domination over them. And they that are great, exercise power over them. It shall not be so among you: But whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister, and whosoever will be chief, let him be your servant. Even as the son of man came, not to be ministered unto, but to minister: and to give his life for the redemption of many.
And as they departed from Hiericho, much people followed him. And behold, two blind men sitting by the wayside, when they heard, that Iesus passed by, cried saying: Master the son of David have mercy on us. And the people rebuffed them, because they should hold their peace: But they cried the more, saying: have mercy on us master which art the son of David. Then Iesus stood still, and called them, and said: what will ye that I should do to you? They said unto him: Master, that our eyes may be opened. Iesus pitied them, and touched their eyes. And immediately their eyes received sight: And they followed him.
The .xxj. Chapter.
When they drew nigh unto Ierusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto mount Olivet, then sent Iesus two of his disciples, saying to them: Go into the town that lieth over against you, and anon ye shall find an ass bound, and her colt with her, loose them and bring them unto me. And if any man say ought unto you, say ye that your master hath need of them, and straight way he will let them go. All this was done, to fulfil that which was spoken by the prophet, saying: Tell ye the daughter of Sion: behold thy king cometh unto thee meek, sitting upon an ass and a colt, the foal of an ass used to the yoke. The disciples went, and did as Iesus commanded them, and brought the ass and the colt, and put on them their clothes, and set him thereon. Many of the people spread their garments in the way. Other cut down branches from the trees, and strawed them in the way. Moreover the people that went before, and they also that came after, cried saying: Hosianna to the son of David. Blessed be he that cometh in the name of the lord, Hosianna in the highest.
And when he was come into Ierusalem, all the city was moved, saying: who is this? And the people said: this is Iesus the prophet of Nazareth a city of Galilee. And Iesus went into the temple of God, and cast out all them that bought and sold in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves. And said to them: it is written, mine house shall be called the house of prayer, but ye have made it a den of thieves. And the blind and the halt came to him in the temple, and he healed them.
When the chief priests and scribes saw, the marvels that he did, and the children crying in the temple and saying, Hosianna to the son of David, they disdained, and said unto him: hearest thou what these say? Iesus said unto them: have ye never read, of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast ordained praise? And he left them, and went out of the city unto Bethany, and passed the time there.
In the morning as he returned into the city again, he hungered, and spied a fig tree in the way, and came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said to it, never fruit grow on thee hence forwards. And anon the fig tree withered away. And when his disciples saw that, they marvelled saying: How soon is the fig tree withered away? Iesus answered, and said unto them: Verily I say unto you, if ye shall have faith, and shall not doubt, ye shall not only do that which I have done to the fig tree: but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, take thyself away, and cast thyself into the sea, it shall be done. And whatsoever thing ye shall ask in your prayers if ye believe, ye shall receive it.
And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests and the seniors of the people came unto him as he was teaching, and said: by what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this power? Iesus answered, and said unto them: I also will ask of you a certain question, which if ye assoil me, I in like wise will tell you by what authority I do these things. Whence was the baptism of Ihon? from heaven, or of men? And they thought in themselves, saying: if we shall say, from heaven, he will say unto us: why did ye not then believe him? But and if we shall say of men, then fear we the people. For all men held Ihon as a prophet. And they answered Iesus, and said: we cannot tell. He likewise said unto them: neither tell I you by what authority I do these things. What say ye to this? A certain man had ij sons, and came to the elder saying: go and work today in my vineyard. He answered and said, I will not: but afterward repented and went. Then came he to the second, and said likewise, and he answered and said: I will sir: yet went he not. Whether of these ij fulfilled their father's will? And they said unto him: the first. Iesus said unto them: verily I say unto you, that the publicans and the harlots shall come into the kingdom of God before you. For Ihon came unto you, in the way of righteousness, and ye believed him not. But the publicans and the whores believed him. But ye (though ye saw it) yet were not moved with repentance, that ye might afterward have believed him.
Hearken another similitude. There was a certain householder, which set a vineyard, and hedged it round about, and made a winepress in it, and built a tower, and let it out to husbandmen, and went into a strange country. And when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his servants to the husbandmen, to receive the fruits of it, and the husbandmen caught his servants, and beat one, killed another, and stoned another. Again he sent other servants more than the first, and they served them likewise. But last of all, he sent unto them his own son, saying: they will fear my son. When the husbandmen saw his son, they said among themselves: This is the heir, come on let us kill him, and let us take his inheritance to ourselves. And they caught him and thrust him out of the vineyard, and slew him. When the lord of the vineyard cometh: what will he do with those husbandmen? They said unto him: he will evil destroy those evil persons, and will let out his vineyard unto other husbandmen, which shall deliver him his fruit at times convenient.
Iesus said unto them: did ye never read in the scriptures? The same stone which the builders refused, is set in the principal part of the corner: this was the lord's doing, and it is marvelous in our eyes. Therefore say I unto you, the kingdom of God shall be taken from you, and shall be given to the Gentiles which shall bring forth the fruits of it. And whosoever shall fall on this stone, shall be alto broken. And whosoever this stone shall fall upon, he shall grind him to powder. And when the chief priests and pharisees heard these similitudes they perceived that he spake of them. And they went about to lay hands on him, but they feared the people, because they counted him as a prophet.
The .xxij. Chapter.
And Iesus answered and spake unto them again, in similitudes, saying:
The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain King, which married his son, and sent forth his servants, to call them that were bid to the wedding, and they would not come. Again he sent forth other servants, saying: tell them which are bidden: Lo I have prepared my dinner, mine oxen and my fatlings are killed, and all things are ready, come unto the marriage. They made light of it, and went their ways: one to his firm place, another about his merchandise, the remnant took his servants and intreated them ungoodly, and slew them. When the king heard that, he was wroth, and sent forth his warriors and destroyed those murderers, and burnt up their city.
Then said he to his servants: The wedding was prepared: but they which were bidden thereto, were not worthy. Go ye therefore out into the highways, and as many as ye find, bid them to the marriage. The servants went out into the ways, and gathered together as many as they could find, both good and bad, and the wedding was furnished with guests. The king came in, to visit the guests, and spied there a man which had not on a wedding garment, and said unto him: friend, how camest thou in hither, and * hast not on a wedding garment? and he was even speechless. Then said the king to his ministers: take and bind him hand and foot, and cast him into utter darkness, there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. For many are called and few be chosen.
Then went the pharisees and took counsel, how they might tangle him in his words. And sent unto him their disciples with Herod's servants, saying: Master, we know that thou art true, and that thou teachest the way of God truly, neither carest for any man, for thou considerest not men's estate. Tell us therefore: how thinkest thou? is it lawful to give tribute unto Cesar, or not? Iesus perceived their wickedness, and said: Why tempt ye me ye hypocrites? let me see the tribute money. And they took him a penny. And he said unto them: whose is this image and superscription? They said unto him: Cesar's. Then said he unto them: Give therefore to Cesar, that which is Cesar's: and give unto God, that which is God's. When they heard that they marvelled, and left him and went their way.
The same day the sadducees came to him (which say that there is no resurrection) and they asked him saying: Master, Moses bade, if a man die having no children, that the brother marry his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother. There were with us seven brethren, the first married and died without issue, and left his wife unto his brother. Likewise the second and the third, unto the seventh: Last of all the woman died also. Now in the resurrection whose wife shall she be of the vij? for all had her. Iesus answered and said unto them: ye are deceived, and know not what the scripture meaneth, nor yet the virtue of God. For in the resurrection they neither marry nor are married: but are as the angels of God in heaven.
As touching the resurrection of the dead: have ye not read what is said unto you of God, which sayeth: I am Abraham's God, and Isaac's God, and the God of Iacob? God is not the God of the dead: but of the living. And when the people heard that, they were astonied at his doctrine.
When the pharisees had heard, how that he had put the Sadducees to silence, they drew to gether, and one of them which was a doctor of law asked him a question tempting him and saying: Master which is the great commandment in the law? Iesus said unto him: thou shalt love thy lord God with all thine heart, with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and that great commandment. And there is another like unto this. Thou shalt love thine neighbor as thyself. In these two commandments, hang all the law and the prophets.
While the pharisees were gathered together Iesus asked them saying: what think ye of Christ? whose son is he? they said unto him: the son of David. He said unto them: how then doth David in spirit call him lord, saying? The lord said to my lord, sit on my right hand: till I make thine enemies thy footstool. If David call him lord: how is he then his son? And none of them could answer him again one word. Neither durst any from that day forth, ask him any more questions.
The .xxiij. Chapter.
Then spake Iesus to the people, and to his disciples, saying: The scribes and the pharisees sit in Moses' seat, whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do: but after their works do not: for they say, and do not. Yea and they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders: but they themselves will not heave them with one finger. All their works they do, for to be seen of men. They set abroad their phylacteries, and make large borders on their garments, and love to sit uppermost at feasts, and to have the chief seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets and to be called of men Rabbi.
But ye shall not suffer yourselves to be called Rabbi, for one is your master, that is to wit Christ, and all ye are brethren. And call ye no man your father upon the earth, for one is your father, and he is in heaven. Be not called masters, for one is your master, and he is Christ. He that is greatest among you, shall be your servant. But whosoever exalteth himself, shall be brought low. And he that submiteth himself, shall be exalted.
Woe be unto you scribes and pharisees dissemblers, for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven before men: ye yourselves go not in, neither suffer ye them that come to enter in.
Woe be unto you scribes and pharisees, for ye devour widows' houses, and that under a colour of praying long prayers, wherefore ye shall receive greater damnation.
Woe be unto you scribes and pharisees hypocrites, for ye compass sea and land, to bring one into your belief: and when ye have brought him ye make him two fold more the child of hell, than ye yourselves are.
Woe be unto you blind guides, for ye say: whosoever swear by the temple, it is nothing: but whosoever swear by the gold of the temple, he is debtor. Ye fools and blind? whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that sanctifieth the gold. And whosoever sweareth by the altar it is nothing: but whosoever sweareth by the offering that lieth on the altar is debtor. Ye fools and blind: whether is greater the offering, or the altar which sanctifieth the offering? whosoever therefore sweareth by the altar, sweareth by it, and by all that thereon is. And whosoever sweareth by the temple sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein. And he that sweareth by heaven, sweareth by the seat of God, and by him that sitteth thereon.
Woe be to you scribes and pharisees dissemblers, for ye tithe mint, annise, and cummin, and leave the weightier matters of the law undone: judgement, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to have left the other undone. Ye blind guides, which strain out a gnat, and swallow a camel.
Woe be to you scribes and pharisees hypocrites, for ye make clean the outer side of the cup, and of the platter: but within they are full of bribery and excess. Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first, that which is within the cup and the platter, that the outside may also be clean.
Woe be to you scribes, and pharisees hypocrites, for ye are like unto painted tombs which appear beautiful outwards: but are within full of dead men's bones and of all filthiness. So are ye, for outward ye appear righteous unto men, when within ye are full of dissimulation and iniquity.
Woe be unto you scribes and pharisees hypocrites, for ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchers of just men, and say: If we had been in our fathers' time, we would not have been partners with them in the blood of the prophets. So are ye be witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the children of them, which killed the prophets. Fulfil ye likewise the measure of your fathers: ye {yee} serpents and generation of vipers, how shall ye scape the damnation of hell?
Wherefore behold I send unto you, prophets wise men and scribes, and of them some shall ye kill and crucify, and some shall ye scourge in your synagogues, and persecute from city to city, that all righteous blood may fall upon you, which was shed upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel, unto the blood of Zacharias the son of Barachias, whom ye slew between the temple and the altar: Verily I say unto you, all these things shall light upon this generation. Hierusalem Hierusalem which killest prophets, and stonest them which are sent to thee: how often would I have gathered thy children together, as the hen gathereth her chickens under her wings? but ye would not? behold your habitation shall be left unto you desolate. For I say unto you, ye shall not see me henceforth, till that ye say: blessed is he that cometh in the name of the lord.
The .xxiiij. Chapter.
And Iesus went out and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him, for to shew him the building of the temple. Iesus said unto them: see ye not all these things? Verily I say unto you: There shall not be here left one stone upon another, that shall not be destroyed.
And as he sat upon the mount Olivet, his disciples came unto him secretly saying: Tell us, when this shall be? and what sign shall be of thy coming, and of the end of the world? and Iesus answered, and said unto them: take heed that no man deceive you, for many shall come in my name saying: I am Christ: and shall deceive many.
Ye shall hear of wars, and of the noise of wars, but see that ye be not troubled, for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and realm against realm: and there shall be pestilence, and hunger, and earthquakes in all quarters. All these are the beginning of sorrows.
Then shall they put you to trouble, and shall kill you, and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake: and then shall many fall, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one the other, and many false prophets shall arise, and shall deceive many: and because iniquity shall have the upper hand, the love of many shall abate. But he that endureth to the end shall be safe. And this Gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world, for a witness unto all nations, and then shall the end come.
When ye then shall see the abomination and desolation (spoken of by Daniel the prophet) stand in the holy place: whosoever readeth it, let him understand it. Then let them which be in Iury fly into the mountains. And let him which is on the housetop, not come down to take anything out of his house. Neither let him which is in the field, return back to fetch his clothes. Woe be in those days to them that are with child, and to them that give suck. But pray that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the Sabbath day. For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not from the beginning of the world to this time, nor shall be. Yea and except those days should be shortened, should no flesh be saved: But for the chosens' sake those days shall be shortened.
Then if any man shall say unto you: lo, here is Christ, or there is Christ: believe it not: for there shall arise false christs, and false prophets and shall give great signs and wonders. So greatly that if it were possible, even the chosen should be brought into error. Take heed I have told you before. If they shall say unto you: lo, he is in the desert, go not forth: lo, he is in the secret places, believe not. For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and shineth unto the west: so shall the coming of the son of man be. For wheresoever a dead body is, even thither will the eagles resort.
Immediately after the tribulations of those days, shall the sun be darkeneth: and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of heaven shall move. And then shall appear the sign of the son of man in heaven. And then shall all the kindreds of the earth mourn, and they shall see the son of man come in the clouds of heaven with power and great majesty: And he shall send his angels with the great voice of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his chosen from the four winds, and from the one end of the world to the other.
Learn a similitude of the fig tree: when his branches are yet tender, and his leaves sprung, ye know that summer is nigh. So likewise when ye see all these things, be ye sure that it is near even at the doors. Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass, till all be fulfilled. Heaven and earth shall perish: but my words shall abide. But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no not the angels of heaven, but my father only.
As the time of Noe was, so likewise shall the coming of the son of man be. For as in the days before the flood: they did eat and drink, marry, and were married, even unto the day that Noe entered in to the ship, and knew of nothing till the flood came and took them all away. So shall also the coming of the son of man be. Then two shall be in the fields, the one shall be received, and the other shall be refused, two shall be grinding at the mill: the one shall be received, and the other shall be refused.
Wake therefore, because ye know not what hour your master will come. Of this be sure, that if the good man of the house knew what hour the thief would come: he would surely watch, and not suffer his house to be broken up. Therefore be ye also ready, for what hour ye think least on, in the same shall the son of man come. Who is a faithful servant and wise, whom his master hath made ruler over his household, for to give them meat in season convenient? happy is that servant whom his master (when he cometh) shall find so doing. Verily I say unto you, he shall make him ruler over all his goods. But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, my master will defer his coming, and begin to smite his fellows: yea and to eat and to drink with the drunken: that servants master will come in a day when he looketh not for him: and in an hour that he is not ware of, and will divide him, and give him his reward with hypocrites. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
The .xxv. Chapter.
Then the kingdom of heaven shall be likened unto x virgins, which took their lamps, and went to meet the bridegroom: five of them were foolish, and five were wise. The foolish took their lamps, but took none oil with them. But the wise took oil with them in their vessels with their lamps also. While the bridegroom tarried, all slumbered and slept. And even at midnight, there was a cry made: behold, the bridegroom cometh, go and meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and prepared their lamps. And the foolish said to the wise: give us of your oil, for our lamps go out? But the wise answered, saying: not so, lest there be not enough for us and you, but go rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves. In conclusion while they went to buy, the bridegroom came: and they that were ready, went in with him to the wedding, and the gate was shut up. Afterwards came also the other virgins, saying: master master, open to us. But he answered, and said: verily I say unto you: I know you not: look that ye watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor yet the hour, when the son of man shall come.
Likewise as a certain man ready to take his journey to a strange country, called his servants to him, and delivered to them his goods. And unto one he gave v. talents, to another ij. and to another one: to every man after his ability, and straight way departed. Then he that had received the five talents, went and bestowed them, and won other five. Likewise he that received ij gained other ij. But he that received one, went and digged a pit in the earth and hid his master's money. After a long season the lord of those servants came, and reckoned with them. Then came he that had received five talents, and brought other five saying: master, thou deliveredst unto me five talents, lo I have gained with them five more. His master said unto him: well good servant and faithful, Thou hast been faithful in little, I will make thee ruler over much: enter in into thy master's joy. Also he that received ij talents came, and said: master, thou deliveredest unto me ij talents: lo I have won ij other talents with them. His master said unto him, well good servant and faithful thou hast been faithful in little, I will make thee ruler over much, go in into thy master's joy.
He which had received the one talent came also, and said: master, I considered that thou wast an hard man, which reapest where thou sowedst not, and gatherest where thou strawedst not, and was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, thou hast thine own. His master answered, and said unto him: evil servant and slothful, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I strawed not: thou oughtest therefore to have had my money to the changers, and then at my coming should I have received my money with vantage. Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath x. talents. For unto every man that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance. And from him that hath not, shall be taken away, even that he hath. And cast that unprofitable servant into utter darkness, there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
When the son of man shall come in his majesty, and all his holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the seat of his majesty, and before him shall be gathered all nations. And he shall sever them one from another, as a shepherd putteth asunder the sheep from the goats. And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, and the goats on the left hand. Then shall the King say to them on his right hand: Come ye blessed children of my father, inherit ye the kingdom prepared for you from the beginning of the world. For I was an hungered, and ye gave me meat. I thirsted, and ye gave me drink. I was harborless, and ye lodged me. I was naked and ye clothed me: I was sick and ye visited me. I was in prison and ye came unto me.
Then shall the just answer him saying: master, when, saw we thee an hungered, and fed thee? or a thirst, and gave thee drink? when saw we thee harborless, and lodged thee? or naked and clothed thee? or when saw we thee sick, or in prison and came unto thee? And the king shall answer and say unto them: verily I say unto you: in as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren: ye have done it to me.
Then shall the king say unto them that shall be on the left hand: depart from me ye cursed, into everlasting fire, which is prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was an hungered, and ye gave me no meat. I thirsted, and ye gave me no drink. I was harborless, and ye lodged me not. I was naked, and ye clothed me not. I was sick and in prison, and ye visited me not.
Then shall they also answer him saying: master, when saw we thee an hungered, or a thirst, or harborless, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and have not ministered unto thee? then shall he answer them, and say: Verily I say unto you, in as much as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. And these shall go into everlasting pain: And the righteous into life eternal.
The .xxvj. Chapter.
And it followed: when Iesus had finished all these sayings, he said unto his disciples: ye know that after ij. days shall be ester, and the son of man shall be delivered to be crucified.
Then assembled together the chief priests and scribes and seniors of the people into the palace of the high priest, called Caiphas: and held a counsel, how they might take Iesus by subtlety, and kill him. but they said, not on the holy day, lest any trouble arise among the people.
When Iesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper, there came unto him a woman, which had an alabaster box of precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at the board. When his disciples saw that, they had indignation saying: what needed this waste? This ointment might have been well sold, and given to the poor. When Iesus understood that, he said unto them: why trouble ye the woman? she hath wrought a good work upon me. For ye shall have poor folk always with you: but me shall ye not have always. And in that she casted this ointment on my body, she did it to bury me with all. Verily I say unto you, wheresoever this gospel shall be preached throughout all the world, there shall also this that she hath done, be told for a memorial of her.
Then one of the twelve called Iudas Iscariot went unto the chief priests, and said: what will ye give me, and I will deliver him unto you? And they appointed unto him thirty pieces of silver. And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.
The first day of unleavened bread the disciples came to Iesus saying unto him: where wilt thou that we prepare for thee to eat the ester lamb? And he said: Go into the city, unto such a man, and say to him: the master saith, my time is almost come, I will keep mine ester at thy house with my disciples. And the disciples did as Iesus had appointed them, and made ready the ester lamb.
When the even was come, he sat down with the xij. And as they did eat, he said: Verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one of them to say unto him: is it I master? He answered and said: he that dippeth his hand with me in the dish, shall betray me. The son of man goeth as it is written of him: but woe be to that man, by whom the son of man shall be betrayed. It had been good for that man, if he had never been born.
Then Iudas which betrayed him, answered and said: is it I master? He said unto him: thou hast said. As they did ate, Iesus took bread and gave thanks, brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said: Take, eat, this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it them, saying: drink of it every one. This is my blood of the new testament, which shall be shed for many, for the forgiveness of sins. I say unto you: I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine tree, until that day, when I shall drink it new with you in my father's kingdom.
And when they had said grace, they went out into mount olivet. Then said Iesus unto them: all ye shall fall this night because of me. For it is written: I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad. But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galile. Peter answered, and said unto him: though all men should be hurt by thee, yet would I not be hurt. Iesus said unto him: verily I say unto thee, that this same night before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. Peter said unto him: If I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples.
Then went Iesus with them into a place, which is called Gethsemane, and said unto his disciples: sit ye here while I go and pray yonder. And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebede, and began to wax sorrowful and to be in agony. Then said Iesus unto them: my soul is heavy even unto the death. Tarry ye here: and watch with me. And he went away a little apart, and fell flat on his face, and prayed saying: O my father, if it possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless, not as I will, but as thou wilt. And he came unto the disciples, and found them asleep, and said to Peter: what, could ye not watch with me one hour? watch and pray, that ye fall not into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak.
He went away once more, and prayed, saying: O my father, if this cup cannot pass away from me, but that I drink of it, thy will be fulfilled. And he came, and found them asleep again. For their eyes were heavy. And he left and went again, and prayed the third time saying the same words. Then came he to his disciples and said unto them: Sleep henceforth, and take your rest. Take heed the hour is at hand, and the son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us be going, he is at hand that shall betray me.
While he yet spake, lo, Iudas one of the twelve came, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves, which were sent from the chief priests and seniors of the people. He that betrayed him, gave them a token, saying: whosoever I kiss, that same is he, lay hands on him. And forth with all he came to Iesus, and said: hail master. And kissed him. And Iesus said unto him: friend, wherefore art thou come? Then came they and laid hands on Iesus and took him.
And behold, one of them which were with Iesus, stretched out his hand and drew his sword, and struck a servant of the high priest, and smote off his ear. Then said Iesus unto him: put up thy sword into his sheath. For all they that lay hands on the sword, shall perish with the sword. Either thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my father, and he shall give me more than xij. legions of angels? how then should the scriptures be fulfilled, for so must it be.
The same time said Iesus to the multitude: ye be come out as it were unto a thief, with swords and staves for to take me: daily I sat among you teaching in the temple, and ye took me not. All this was done that the scriptures of the prophets might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples forsook him and fled. And they took Iesus and led him to Caiphas the high priest, where the scribes and the seniors were assembled. Peter followed him afar off, unto the high priest's place: and went in, and sat with the servants to see the end.
The chief priests, and the seniors, and all the council, sought false witness against Iesus, for to put him to death, and they found none: in so much that when many false witnesses came, yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses, and said: This fellow said: I can destroy the temple of God, and build the same in iij days.
And the chief priest arose, and said to him: answerest thou nothing? How is it that these bear witness against thee? but Iesus held his peace. And the chief priest answered, and said to him: I charge thee in the name of the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be Christ the son of God. Iesus said to him: thou hast said. Nevertheless I say unto you, hereafter shall ye see the son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and come in the clouds of the sky.
Then the high priest rent his clothes saying? He hath blasphemed: what need we of any more witnesses? Lo, now have ye heard his blasphemy: what think ye? They answered and said: he is worthy to die. Then spat they in his face, and beat him with their fists. And other smote him with the palm of their hands on the face, saying: areed to us Christ, who is he that smote thee?
Peter sat without in the palace, and a damsel came to him, saying: Thou also wast with Iesus of Galilee: he denied before them all saying: I wot not what thou sayest. When he was gone out into the porch, another wench saw him, and said unto them that were there: This fellow was also with Iesus of Nazareth: And again he denied with an oath, and said: I know not the man. And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and said unto Peter: surely thou art even one of them, for thy speech betrayeth thee. Then began he to curse and to swear, that he knew not the man. And immediately the cock crew. And Peter remembered the words of Iesu, which he said unto him: before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice: and went out at the doors and wept bitterly.
The .xxvij. Chapter.
When the morning was come, all the chief priests and seniors of the people held a counsel against Iesu, to put him to death, and brought him bound and delivered him unto Pontius Pilate the deputy.
Then when Iudas which betrayed him, saw that he was condemned, he repented himself, and brought again the xxx. plates of silver to the chief priests and seniors saying: I have sinned betraying the innocent blood. And they said: what is that to us? see thou to that. And he cast down the silver plates in the temple, and departed, and went and hung himself.
The chief priests took the silver plates and said: it is not lawful for to put them into the treasury, because it is the price of blood. And they took counsel, and bought with them a potter's field to bury strangers in. Wherefore that field is called, the field of blood, until this day. Then was fulfilled, that which was spoken by Ieremy the prophet, saying: and they took xxx. silver plates, the value of him that was priced, whom they bought of the children of Israhel, and they gave them for the potter's field, as the lord appointed me.
Iesus stood before the deputy: and the deputy asked him, saying: Art thou the king of the jewes? Iesus said unto him: Thou sayest. When he was accused of the chief priests and seniors, he answered nothing. Then said Pilate unto him: hearest thou not how many things they lay against thee? and he answered him to never a word: in so much that the deputy marvelled very sore.
At that feast, the deputy was wont to deliver unto the people a prisoner whom they would choose. He had then a notable prisoner called Barabbas. And when they were gathered together, Pilate said unto them: whether will ye that I give loose unto you, Barabbas, or Iesus which is called Christ? For he knew well, that for envy they had delivered him.
When he was set down to give judgement, his wife sent to him, saying: have thou nothing to do with that just man, I have suffered many things this day in my sleep about him.
The chief priests and the seniors had persuaded the people, that they should ask Barabbas, and should destroy Iesus. The deputy answered and said unto them: whether of the twain will ye that I let loose unto you? And they said, Barabbas. Pilate said unto them: what shall I do then with Iesus, which is called Christ? They all said to him: let him be crucified. Then said the deputy: what evil hath he done? And they cried the more saying: let him be crucified.
When Pilate saw that he prevailed nothing, but that more business was made, he took water and washed his hands before the people saying: I am innocent of the blood of this just person, and that ye shall see. Then answered all the people, and said: his blood fall on us, and on our children. Then let he Barabbas loose unto them, and scourged Iesus, and delivered him to be crucified. Then the soldiers of the deputy took Iesus unto the common hall, and gathered unto him all the company. And they stripped him, and put on him a purple robe, and plaited a crown of thorns and put upon his head, and a reed in his right hand. And bowed their knees before him, saying: hail king of the jewes, and spitted upon him, and took the reed and smote him on the head.
And when they had mocked him, they took the robe off him again, and put his own raiment on him, and led him away to crucify him. And as they came out, they found a man of Cyren, named Simon: him they compelled to bear his cross. And came unto the place, which is called Golgotha (that is to say a place of dead men's skulls) they gave him vinegar to drink mixt with gall. And when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.
When they had crucified him, they parted his garments, and did cast lots. To fulfil that was spoken by the prophet: They divided my garments among them: and upon my vesture have cast lots. And they sat and watched him there. And they set up over his head the cause of his death written: This is Iesus the king of the jewes. And there were two thieves crucified with him, one on the right hand, and another on the left hand.
They that passed by, reviled him wagging their heads and saying: Thou that destroyest the temple of God, and buildest it in three days save thyself. If thou be the son of God, come down from the cross. Likewise also the prelates mocking him with the scribes and seniors said: He saved other, himself he cannot save. If he be the king of Israhell: let him now come down from the cross, and we will believe him. He trusted in God, let God deliver him now if he will have him, for he said, I am the son of God. That same also the thieves, which were crucified with him cast in his teeth.
From the sixth hour was there darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour. And about the ninth hour Iesus cried with a loud voice, saying: Eli Eli lama sabathani. That is to say, my God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? Some of them that stood there, when they heard that said: This man calleth for Helias. And straightway one of them ran and took a sponge and filled it full of vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink. Other said let be, let us see whether Helias will come and deliver him. Iesus cried again with a loud voice and yielded up the ghost.
And behold the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom, and the earth did quake, and the stones did rent, and graves did open, and the bodies of many saints which slept, arose: and came out of the graves after his resurrection, and came into the holy city, and appeared unto many.
When the petty captain, and they that were with him watching Iesus, saw the earthquake and those things which happened, they feared greatly saying, Of a surety this was the son of God.
And many women were there, beholding him afar off, which followed Iesus from Galile, ministering unto him: among the which was Mary Magdalen, and Mary the mother of Iames and the mother of Ioses, and the mother of Zebedee's children.
When the even was come, there came a rich man of Arimathia named Ioseph, which same also was Iesus' disciple. He went to Pilate and begged the body of Iesus. Then Pilate commanded the body to be delivered. And Ioseph took the body, and wrapped it in a clean linen cloth, and put it in his new tomb, which he had hewn out even in the rock, and rolled a great stone to the door of the sepulchre and departed. And there was Mary Magdalene and the other Mary sitting over against the sepulchre.
The next day that followeth good friday, the high priests and pharisees got themselves to Pilate, and said: Sir, we remember, that this deceiver said while he was yet alive. After three days I will arise again, command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until the third day, lest peradventure his disciples come, and steal him away, and say unto the people, he is risen from death: And then the last error shall be worse than the first was. Pilate said unto them: Take watchmen: Go and make it as sure as ye can. They went and made the sepulchre sure with watchmen, and sealed the stone.
The .xxviij. Chapter.
The saboth day at even which dawneth the morrow after the saboth, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary came to see the sepulchre.
And behold there was a great earthquake. For the angel of the lord descended from heaven: and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow. For fear of him the keepers were astunned, and became as dead men.
The angel answered, and said to the women, Fear ye not. I know well ye seek Iesus which was crucified: he is not here: he is risen as he said. Come, and see the place where the lord was put. And go quickly and tell his disciples that he is risen from death. And behold, he will go before you into Galile, there ye shall see him. Lo I have told you.
And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great Ioy. And did run to bring his disciples word. And as they went to tell his disciples: behold, Iesus met them saying: God speed you. They came and held him by the feet and worshipped him. Then said Iesus unto them: be not afraid. Go and tell my brethren, that they go into Galile, and there shall they see me. When they were gone: behold, some of the keepers came in to the city, and shewed unto the prelates, all the things which had happened. And they gathered them together with the seniors, and took counsel, and gave large money unto the soldiers, saying: Say that his disciples came by night, and stole him away while ye slept. And if this come to the ruler's ears, we will pease him, and make you safe. And they took the money and did as they were taught. And this saying is noised among the jews unto this day.
Then the xj. disciples went away into Galile, into a mountain where Iesus had appointed them. And when they saw him, they worshipped him. But some of them doubted. Iesus came and spake unto them, saying: All power is given unto me in heaven, and in earth. Go therefore and teach all nations, baptising them in the name of the father, and the son, and the holy ghost: Teaching them to observe all things, whatsoever I commanded you. And lo, I am with you alway even until the end of the world.
Here endeth the Gospell of S. Mathew.
The first Chapter.
The beginning of the Gospell of Iesu Christ the son of God, as it is written in the prophets, behold I send my messenger before thy face which shall prepare thy way before thee. The voice of one that crieth in the wilderness: prepare ye the way of the lord, make his paths straight.
Ihon did baptise in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance, for the remission of sins. And all the land of Iewry, and they of Ierusalem went out unto him, and were all baptised of him in the river Iordan, knowledging, their sins.
Ihon was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle of a beasts skin about his loins. And he ate locusts and wild honey, and preached saying: a stronger than I cometh after me, whose shoe latchet I am not worthy to stoop down and unloose. I have baptised you with water: but he shall baptise you with the holy ghost.
And it came to pass in those days, that Iesus came from Nazareth, a city of Galile: and was baptised of Ihon in Iordan.
And immediately he came out of the water, and saw the heavens open, and the holy ghost descending upon him like a dove. And there came a voice from heaven: Thou art my dear son, in whom I delight. And immediately the spirit drove him into a wilderness: and he was there in the wilderness xl. days, and was tempted of Satan, and was with wild beasts. And the angels ministered unto him.
After that Ihon was taken, Iesus came into Galile, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God, and saying: the time is ful come, and the kingdom of God is even at hand, repent and believe the gospel.
As he walked by the sea of Galile, he saw Simon and Andrew his brother casting nets into the sea, for they were fishers. And Iesus said unto them: follow me, and I will make you to be fishers of men. And they straightway forsook their nets, and followed him.
And when he had gone a little further thence, he saw Iames the son of Zebede, and Ihon his brother, even as they were in the ship dressing their nets. And anon he called them. And they left their father Zebede in the ship with his hired servants, and went their way after him.
And they entered into Capernaum, and straight way on the Sabbath days he entered into the synagogue and taught. And they marvelled at his learning. For he taught them as one which had power with him, and not as the scribes did.
And there was in the Synagogue, a man vexed with an unclean spirit, and he cried saying: let me alone: what have we to do with thee Iesus of Nazareth? Art thou come to destroy us? I know what thou art, thou art that holy man promised of God. And Iesus rebuked him, saying: hold thy peace and come out of the man. And the unclean spirit tare him, cried out with a loud voice, and came out of him. And they were all amazed, insomuch that they demanded one of another among themselves, saying: what thing is this? what new doctrine is this? for he commandeth the foul spirits with power, and they obey him. Anon his name spread abroad throughout all the region bordering on Galile.
And immediately as soon as they were come out of the Synagogue, they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew with Iames and Ihon. Simon's motherinlaw lay sick of a fever, and anon they told him of her. And he came and took her by the hand and lifted her up, and the fever forsook her by and by: And she ministered unto them.
And at even when the sun was down, they brought unto him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with devils, and all the city gathered together at the door, and he healed many that were sick of divers diseases. And he cast out many: devils and suffered not the devils to speak, because they knew him.
And in the morning very early, Iesus arose and went out into a solitary place, and there prayed. And Simon and they that were with him followed after him. And when they had found him, they said unto him: all men seek for thee. And he said unto them: let us go in to the next towns, that I may preach there also: for truly I came out for that purpose. And he preached in their synagogues, throughout all Galile, and cast devils out.
And there came a leper to him beseeching him, and kneeled down unto him, and said unto him: if thou wilt, thou arte able to make me clean. Iesus had compassion on him, and put forth his hand, touched him, and said unto him: I will, be clean. And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the leprosy departed from him, and he was cleansed. and he charged him and sent him away forthwith and said unto him: See that thou tell no man, but get thee hence and shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, those things which Moses commanded, for a testimonial unto them. But he (as soon as he was departed) began to tell many things and to publish the deed, insomuch that Iesus could no more openly enter into the city, but was without in desert places, and they came to him from every quarter.
The .ij. Chapter.
After a few days he entered into Capernaum again, and it was noised that he was in a house: And anon many gathered together, insomuch that now there was no room to receive them: no, not in places about the door. And he preached unto them. And there came unto him that brought one sick of the palsy, borne of four men: and because they could not come nigh unto him for press: They opened the roof of the house where he was. And when they had broken it open, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay. When Iesus saw their faith, he said to the sick of the palsy, son thy sins are forgiven thee.
There were certain of the scribes sitting, and reasoning in their hearts: how doth this fellow so blaspheme? Who can forgiven sins, but God only? And immediately when Iesus perceived in his spirit, that they so reasoned in themselves, he said unto them: why think ye such things in your hearts? Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, thy sins are forgiven thee: or to say, arise, take up thy bed and walk? That ye may know that the son of man hath power in earth to forgive sins, he spake unto the sick of the palsy: I say unto thee, arise and take up thy bed, and get thee hence into thine own house. And by and by he arose, took up his bed, and went forth before them all: in so much that they were all amazed, and glorified God saying: we never saw it on this fashion.
And he went out again unto the sea, and all the people resorted unto him, and he taught them. And as Iesus passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphey, sit at the receipt of custom and said unto him: follow me. And he arose and followed him. And it came to pass, as Iesus sat at meat in his house, many publicans and sinners sat at meat also with Iesus and his disciples. For there were many that followed him. And when the scribes and pharisees saw him eat with publicans and sinners, they said unto his disciples: how is it, that he eateth and drinketh with publicans and sinners? When Iesus heard that, he said unto them. The whole have no need of the Physician: but the sick. I came to call the sinners to repentance, and not the just.
And the disciples of Ihon and of the pharisees did fast, and they came and said unto him: Why do the disciples of Ihon and of the pharisees fast, and thy disciples fast not. And Iesus said unto them: can the children of a wedding fast, while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. But the days will come when the bridegroom shall be taken from them and then shall they fast in those days.
Also no man soweth a piece of new cloth unto an old garment, for then taketh he away the new piece from the old, and so is the rent worse.
In like wise, no man poureth new wine into old vessels, for if he do the new wine breaketh the vessels, and the wine runneth out, and the vessels are marred. But new wine must be poured into new vessels.
And it chanced that he went thorow the corn fields on the sabboth day, and his disciples as they went on their way, began to pluck the ears of corn. And the pharisees said unto him: Take heed why do they on the sabboth day that which is unlawful? And he said to them: have ye never read what David did, when he had need, and was an hungered both he and they that were with him? How they went into the house of God in the days of Abiathar the high priest, and ate the hallowed loaves, which is not lawful but for the priests only to eat: and gave also to them which were with him? And he said to them: the saboth day was made for man, and not man for the saboth day. Wherefore is the son of man lord even of the saboth day.
The .iij. Chapter.
And he entered again into the synagogue, and there was a man which had a withered hand: and they watched him to see, if he would heal him on the saboth day, that they might accuse him. And he said unto the man which had the withered hand: arise and stand in the midst. And he said to them: whether is it lawful to do a good deed on the sabboth day, or an evil? to save a man's life, or to kill? But they held their peace. And he looked round about on them angerly mourning on the blindness of their hearts. And said to the man: stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it forth: And the hand was restored, even as whole as the other.
The pharisees departed, and straightway gathered a counsel with them that belonged to Herode against him, that they might destroy him. And Iesus avoided with his disciples to the sea: and a great multitude followed him from Galilee and from Iewry, and from Hierusalem, and from Idumea, and from beyond Iordan: and they that dwelled about Tyre and Sidon, a great multitude: which when they had heard what things he did, came unto him.
And he commanded his disciples, that a ship should wait on him, because of the people, lest they should throng him. For he had healed many, in so much that they pressed upon him, for to touch him, as many as had plagues. And when the unclean spirits saw him, they fell down before him, and cried saying: thou art the son of God: And he straightly charged them that they should not utter him.
And he went up into a mountain, and called unto him whom he would, and they came unto him. And he ordained the twelve that they should be with him, and that he might send them to preach. And that they might have power to heal sicknesses and to cast out devils. And he gave Simon, to name, Peter. And he called Iames the son of Zebedee, and Ihon Iames brother, and gave them Bonargs to name, which is to say the sons of thunder. And Andrew, and Philip, and Bartelemew, and Matthew, and Thomas, and Iames the son of Alphey, and Taddeus, and Simon of Cane, and Iudas Iscarioth, which same also betrayed him.
And they came unto house, and the people assembled together again, so greatly that they had not leisure so much as to eat bread. And when they that longed unto him heard of it, they went out to hold him. For they said, he is too fervent. And the scribes which came from Ierusalem, said: he hath Beelzebub, and by the power of the chief devil, casteth out devils. And he called them unto him, and in similitudes said unto them.
How can Satan drive out Satan? For if a realm be divided against itself, that realm cannot endure. And if a house be divided against itself, that house cannot continue: So if Satan make insurrection against himself, and be divided, he cannot continue, but hath an end. No man can enter into a strong man's house, and take away his goods, except he first bind that strong man and then spoil his house.
Verily I say unto you all sins shall be forgiven unto men's children: and blasphemy, wherewith they blaspheme: but he that blasphemeth the holy ghost, shall never have forgiveness: but is in danger of eternal damnation. For they said, he had an unclean spirit.
And there came his mother and his brethren, and stood without, and sent unto him and called him: And the people sat about him, and said unto him: behold thy mother and thy brethren seek for thee without. And he answered them, saying: who is my mother, and my brethren? And he looked round about on his disciples, which sat in compass about him, and said: behold my mother, and my brethren:
For whosoever doeth the will of God, he is my brother, my sister and mother.
The .iiij. Chapter.
And he began again to teach by the seaside. And there gathered together unto him much people, so greatly that he entered in to a ship, and sat in the sea, and all the people was by the seaside on the shore: And he taught them many things in similitudes, and said unto them in his doctrine. Hearken to. Behold, The sower went out to sow, and it fortuned as he sowed, that some fell by the wayside, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up. Some fell on a stony ground: where it had not much earth: and by and by sprang up, because it had not depth of earth: and as soon as the sun was up it caught heat: and because it had not rooting it withered away. And some fell among the thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked it, so that it gave no fruit. And some fell upon good ground: and did yield fruit that sprang and grew: and brought forth some thirty fold, some forty {or sixty} fold, and some an hundred fold. And he said unto them: He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
When he was alone, they that were, about him with the twelve asked him of the similitude. And he said unto them: To you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: But unto them that are without, shall all things be done in similitudes: that when they see, they shall see, and not discern: and when they hear they shall hear, and not understand: lest at any time they should turn, and their sins should be forgiven them. And he said unto them: Perceive ye not this similitude. And how ye shall know all similitudes?
The sower soweth the word. These be they which are by the ways side, where the word is sown, to whom as soon as they have heard it, cometh the devil and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts. And these also are they that are sown on the stony ground: which when they have heard the word, at once they receive it with joy, yet have no root in themselves, and so endure but for a season: afterward as soon as any trouble or persecution ariseth for the word's sake, anon they fall. And these are they that are sown among the thorns, which hear the word of God, and the care of this world and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things enter in, and choke the word, and it is made unfruitful. And these that were sown in good ground, are they that hear the word and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirty fold some sixty fold, some an hundred fold.
And he said unto them: is the candle lighted, to be put under a bushel, or under the bord: is it not therefore lighted that it should be put on a candlestick? For there is nothing so privy, that shall not be opened: neither so secret, but that it shall come abroad. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. And he said unto them: take heed what ye hear. With what measure ye mete, with the same shall it be measured unto you again. And unto you that have shall more be given. For unto him that hath, shall it be given: And unto him that hath not, shall be taken away, even that he hath.
And he said: so is the kingdom of God, even as if a man should sow seed in the ground, and should sleep and rise up night and day: and the seed should spring, and grow up while he is not ware. For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself, first the blade, then the ears, after that full corn in the ears. And as soon as the fruit is brought forth, anon he thrusteth in the sickle because that harvest is come.
And he said: whereunto shall we liken the kingdom of God? or with what comparison shall we compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which when it is sown in the earth, is the least of all seeds that be in the earth: And after that it is sown it groweth up, and is greatest of all herbs: and beareth great branches so that the fowls of the air may dwell under the shadow of it.
And with many such similitudes he preached the word unto them, after as they might hear it. And without similitude spake he nothing unto them. But when they were apart, he expounded all things to his disciples. And the same day when even was come he said unto them: let us pass over into the other side. And they late the people depart and took him even as he was in the ship. There were also with him other ships.
And there arose a great storm of wind, and dashed the waves into the ship, so that it was full. And he was in the stern asleep on a pillow. And they awoke him, and said to him: Master, carest thou not that we perish? And he rose up and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea: peace and be still. And the wind allayed, and there followed a great calm: and he said unto them: why are ye fearful? How is it that ye have no faith? And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another: what fellow is this? for both wind and sea obey him.
The .v. Chapter.
And they came over to the other side of the sea into the country of the Gaderens. And when he was come out of the ship, anon met him out of the graves a man possessed of an unclean spirit, which had his abiding among the graves. And no man could bind him with chains, because that when he was often bound with fetters and chains, he plucked the chains asunder, and brake the fetters in pieces: Neither could any man tame him. And always both night and day he cried in the mountains and in the graves and beat himself with stones. When he had spied Iesus afar off, he ran, and worshipped him, and cried with a loud voice and said: what have I to do, with thee Iesus the son of the most highest God? I require thee in the name of God, that thou torment me not. For he had said unto him: Come forth of the man thou foul spirit. And he asked him: what is thy name? and he answered him, my name is legion, for we are many. And he prayed him instantly, that he would not send them away out of that region.
There was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding, and all the devils besought him saying: send us into the herd of swine, that we may enter into them. And anon Iesus gave them leave, And the unclean spirits went out and entered into the swine. And the herd startled, and ran headlong into the sea. They were about ijM. swine, and they were drowned in the sea. And the swine herders fled, and told it in the city, and in the country. And they came out for to see, what had happened, And they came out to Iesus, and they saw him that was vexed with the fiend and had the Legion sit, both clothed and in his right mind, and were afraid. And they that saw it told them, how it had happened unto him that was possessed with the devil: and also of the swine. And they began to pray him, that he would depart from their coasts. And when he was come into the ship, he that had the devil prayed him that he might be with him. Iesus would not suffer him but said unto him: go home into thine own house and to thy friends, and shew them what things the lord hath done unto thee, and how he had compassion on thee. And he departed, and began to publish in the ten cities, what things Iesus had done unto him, and all men did marvel.
And when Iesus was come over again in the ship unto the other side, much people gathered unto him, and he was nigh unto the sea. And behold, there came unto him one of the rulers of the Synagogue, whose name was Iairus: and when he saw him, he fell down at his feet, and besought him greatly saying: my daughter lieth at point of death, I would thou wouldst come and lay thy hand on her, that she might be safe and live. And he went with him, and much people followed him, and thronged him.
And there was a woman, which was diseased of an issue of blood twelve year, and had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and felt none amendment at all: But waxed worse and worse. When she had heard of Iesus: she came into the press behind him, and touched his garment. For she said: If I may but touch his clothing, I shall be whole. And straight way her fountain of blood was dried up, and she felt in her body, that she was healed of the plague.
And Iesus immediately felt in himself, the vertue that went out of him, and turned him round about in the press, and said: Who touched my clothes? And his disciples said unto him: thou seest the people thrusting thee on every side, and yet sayest: who did touch me? And he looked round about, for to see her that had done that thing. The woman feared and trembled, for she knew what was done within her. And she came and fell down before him and told him the truth of everything. And he said unto her: Daughter, thy faith hath saved thee, go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.
While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of the synagogi's house, certain which said: thy daughter is dead: why diseasest thou the Master any further? As soon as Iesus heard that word spoken, he said unto the ruler of the Synagogue: Be not afraid, only believe. And he suffered no man to follow him more than Peter, and Iames and Ihon Iames brother. And he came unto the house of the ruler of the Synagogue, and saw the wondering and them that wept and wailed greatly,
And he went in and said unto them: Why make ye this ado and weep? The maiden is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn. Then he put them all out, and took the father and the mother of the maiden, and them that were with him, and entered in where the maiden lay, And took the maiden by the hand, and said unto her: Tabitha, cumi: which is by interpretation: maiden I say unto thee, arise. And straight the maiden arose, and went on her feet. For she was of the age of twelve year. And they were astonied at it out of measure. And he charged them straitly that no man should know of it. And commanded to give her meat.
The .vj. Chapter.
And he departed thence, and came into his own country, and his disciples followed him. And when the saboth day was come, he began to teach in the synagogue. And many that heard him were astonied, and said: From whence hath he these things? and what wisdom is this that is given unto him? and such virtues that are wrought by his hands? Is not this that carpenter Marys son, the brother of Iames, and Ioses and Iuda and Simon? and are not his sisters here with us? And they were hurt by the reason of him. And Iesus said unto them: a prophet is not despised but in his own country, and among his own kin, and among them that are of the same household. And he could there shew no miracles but laid his hands upon a few sick folk and healed them. And he marvelled at their unbelief.
And he went about by the towns that lie in circuit, teaching. And he called the twelve, and began to send them, two and two, and gave them power over unclean spirits. And commanded them, that they should take nothing unto their Iourney, save a rod only: Neither scrip, neither bread, neither money in their purses: but should be shod with sandals. And that they should not put on two coats. And said unto them: wheresoever ye enter into an house, there abide till ye depart thence. And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when ye depart thence, shake off the dust that is under your feet, for a remembrance unto them. I say verily unto you, it shallbe easier for Sodom and Gomor, at the day of judgement, than for that city.
And they went out and preached, that they should repent: and they cast out many devils. And they anointed, many that were sick with oil and healed them.
And king Herode heard of him, for his name was spread abroad, And he said: Ihon Baptist is risen again from death, and therefore miracles are wrought in him. Other said, it is Helias: and some said: it is a prophet, or as one of the prophets. But when Herode heard of him, he said: it is Ihon whom I beheaded, he is risen from death again.
For Herode himself, had sent forth, and had taken Ihon, and bound him and cast him into prison for Herodias' sake which was his brother Philip's wife. For he had married her. Ihon said unto Herode: It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother's wife. Herodias laid wait for him, and would have killed him, but she could not. For Herode feared Ihon, knowing that he was just and holy, and gave him reverence, And when he heard him he did many things, and heard him gladly.
And when a convenient day was come: Herode on his birthday made a supper to the lords, captains, and chief estates of Galile. And the daughter of the same Herodias came in and danced, and pleased Herode and them that sat at board also. Then the king said unto the maiden: ask of me what thou wilt, and I will give it thee. And he sware unto her, whatsoever thou shalt ask of me, I will give it thee, even unto the one half of my kingdom. And she went forth and said to her mother: what shall I ask? And she said: Ihon baptist's head. And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and asked saying: I will, that thou give me by and by in a charger the head of Ihon baptist. And the king was sorry yet for his oath's sake, and for their sakes which sat at supper also, he would not put her beside her purpose. And immediately the king sent the hangman and commanded his head to be brought in. And he went and beheaded him in the prison, and brought his head in a charger and gave it to the maiden, and the maiden gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard of it, they came and took up his body, and put it in a tomb.
And the apostles gathered themselves together to Iesus, and told him all things, both what they had done, and what they had taught. And he said unto them: come ye apart into the wilderness, and rest awhile. For there were many comers and goers. And they had no leisure wos for to eat. And he went by ship aside out of the way into a desert place. And the people spied them when they departed: and many knew him, and they hasted afoot thither out of every city, and came thither before them, And came together unto him. And Iesus went out and saw much people, and had compassion on them, because they were like sheep which had no shepherd. And he began to teach them many things.
And when the day was now far spent, his disciples came unto him saying: this is a desert place, and now the day is far passed, let them depart, that they may go into the country round about, and into the towns, and buy them bread: for they have nothing to eat. He answered and said unto them: give ye them to eat. And they said unto him: shall we go and buy ij.C. pennyworth of bread, and give them to eat? He said unto them: how many loaves have ye? Go and look. And when they had searched, they said: v. and ij. fishes. And he commanded them to make them all sit down, by companies upon the green grass. And they sat down here a row and there a row, by hundreds and by fifties. And he took the v. loaves and the ij. fishes And looked up to heaven and blest, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to put before them, and the ij. fishes he divided among them all. And they all ate, and were satisfied. And they took up twelve baskets full of the gobbets and of the fishes. And they that ate were about five thousand men.
And straightway he caused his disciples to go into the ship, and to go over the water before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people. And as soon as he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray. And when even was come the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land, and he saw them troubled in rowing, for the wind was contrary unto them. And about the fourth quarter of the night, he came unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them. When they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: For they all saw him, and were afraid. And anon he talked with them, and said unto them: be of good cheer, it is I, be not afraid. And he went up unto them into the ship, and the wind ceased, and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and marvelled. For they remembered not of the loaves, because their hearts were blinded.
And they came over, and went into the land of Genazareth, and drew up into the haven. And as soon as they were come out of the ship, straight they knew him, and ran forth throughout all the region round a about, and began to carry about in beds all that were sick, when they heard tell that he was there. And whithersoever he entered into the towns, or cities, or villages, they laid their sick in the streets, and prayed him, that they might touch and it were but the edge of his vesture. And as many as touched him were safe.
The .vij. Chapter.
And the pharisees came together unto him, and divers of the scribes which came from Ierusalem. And when they saw certain of his disciples eat bread with common hands (that is to say, with unwashen hands) they complained. For the pharisees, and all the jews, except they wash their hands often, eat not, observing the traditions of the seniors. And when they come from the market, except they wash themselves they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have taken upon them to observe, as the washing of cups and cruses, and of brazen vessels, and of tables.
Then asked him the pharisees and scribes: why walk not thy disciples according to the traditions of the seniors, but eat bread with unwashen hands? He answered and said unto them: well prophesied hath Esaias of you hypocrites as it is written: This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me: In vain they worship me, teaching doctrines which are nothing but the commandments of men, for ye lay the commandment of God apart, and ye observe the traditions of men as the washing of cruses and of cups, and many other such like things ye do.
And he said unto them: well, ye put away the commandment of God, to maintain your own traditions. For Moses said: Honour thy father and thy mother: and whosoever saith evil of his father or mother, let him die for it. But ye say: a man shall say to his father or mother Corban, that is, whatsoever thing I offer, that same doeth profit thee. And ye suffer no more that a man do anything for his father or mother, and thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect through your own traditions which ye have ordained. And many such things ye do.
And he called all the people unto him, and said unto them: Hearken unto me every one of you and understand: There is nothing with out a man that can defile him when it entereth into him, but those things which proceed out of him are those which defile a man. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear. And when he came into a house away from the people, his disciples asked him of the similitude, and he said unto them: Do ye than lack understanding: Do ye not yet perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into a man, it cannot defile him, because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly: and goeth out into the draught that purgeth out all meats.
And he said that defileth a man which cometh out of a man. For from within even out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts: advoutry, fornication, murder, theft, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, uncleanness, and a wicked eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things, come from within, and defile a man.
And from thence he rose and went into the borders of Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an house, and would that no man should have known of him: But he could not be hid. For a certain woman whose daughter had a foul spirit when she heard of him, came and fell down at his feet. The woman was a greek out of Syrophenicia, and she besought him that he would cast out the devil out of her daughter. Iesus said unto her: let the children first be fed. It is not meet, to take the children's bread, and to cast it unto whelps. She answered and said unto him: even so Master, nevertheless, the whelps also eat under the table of the children's crumbs. And he said unto her: for this saying go thy way, the devil is gone out of thy daughter. And when she was come home to her house she found the devil departed, and her daughter lying on the bed.
And he departed again from the coasts of Tyre and Sidon, and came unto the sea of Galile thorow the midst of the coasts of the x. cities. And they brought unto him one that was deaf, and stammered in his speech, and prayed him to lay his hand upon him. And he took him aside from the people, and put his fingers in his ears, and did spit, and touched his tongue, and looked up to heaven and sighted, and said unto him: ephatha that is to say, be opened. And straightway his ears were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he spake plain. And he commanded them that they should tell no man. But the more he forbade them, so much the more a great deal they published it. And were beyond measure astonied, saying: He hath done all things well, and hath made both the deaf to hear and the dumb to speak.
The .viij. Chapter.
In those days when there was a very great company, and had nothing to eat, Iesus called his disciples to him and said unto them: My heart melteth on this people, because they have now been with me iij. days, and have nothing to eat: And if I should send them away fasting to their own houses, they should faint by the way. For divers of them came from far. And his disciples answered him: from whence might a man suffice them with bread here in the wilderness? And he asked them: how many loaves have ye? They said: seven. And he commanded the people to sit down on the ground. And he took the vij. loaves, gave thanks, brake, and gave to his disciples, to set before them. And they set them before the people. And they had a few small fishes. And he blessed them and commanded them also to be set before them. They ate and were sufficed, and they took up of the broken meat that was left, vij. baskets full. They that ate were in number about four thousand. And he sent them away.
And anon he took ship with his disciples, and came into the parts of Dalmanutha. And the pharisees came forth, and began to dispute with him, and sought of him a sign from heaven tempting him, and he sighed in his spirit and said: why doth this generation seek a sign? Verily I say unto you, there shall no sign be given unto this generation. And he left them and went into the ship again, and departed over the water. And they had forgotten to take bread with them, neither had they in the ship with them more than one loaf. And he charged them saying: take heed, beware of the leaven of the pharisees, and of the leaven of Herode. And they reasoned among themselves saying: we have no bread. And when Iesus knew that he said unto them: why take ye thought because ye have no bread? perceive ye not yet, neither understand? Have ye your hearts yet blinded? Have ye eyes and see not? and have ye ears and hear not? Do ye not remember? When I v. five loaves among v.M. men: How many baskets full of broken meat took ye up? They said unto him, xij. When I brake vij among iiij M how many baskets of the leavings of broken meat took ye up? They said, vij. And he said unto them: how is it that ye understand not?
And he came to Bethsaida, and they brought a blind man unto him and desired him, to touch him. And he caught the blind by the hand, and led him out of the town, and spat in his eyes and put his hands upon him, and asked him if he saw anything, and he looked up and said: I see men, For I see them walk as they were trees. After that he put his hands again upon his eyes, and made him see. And he was restored to his sight, and saw every man clearly. And he sent him home to his own house saying: neither go into the town, nor tell it any in the town.
And Iesus went out and his disciples into the towns that long to the city called Cesarea Philippi, and by the way he asked his disciples saying: whom do men say that I am? They answered: some say that thou art Ihon Baptist: some say Helias, and some one of the prophets. And he said unto them: But whom say ye that I am? Peter answered and said unto him: Thou art very Christ. And he charged them, that they should tell no man of it. And he began to declare unto them, how that the son of man must suffer many things, and should be reproved of the seniors and of the high priests and scribes, and should be killed, and after three days arise again. And he spake that saying openly. And Peter took him aside, and began to chide him. He turned about, and looked on his disciples, and rebuked Peter saying: Go after me Satan. For thou savourest not the things of God but the things of men.
And he called the people unto him, with his disciples also, and said unto them. Whosoever will follow me, let him forsake himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life, shall lose it. But whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the Gospel's, the same shall save it. What shall it profit a man, if he should win all the world and lose his own soul? or else what shall a man give, to redeem his soul again? Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words, among this advoutrous and sinful generation: of him shall the son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his father with the holy angels.
The .ix. Chapter.
And he said unto them: Verily I say unto you: There be some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power.
And after vj. days Iesus took Peter, Iames, and Ihon and led them up into an high mountain out of the way alone, and he was transfigured before them. And his raiment did shine, and was made very white, even as snow: so white as no fuller can make upon the earth. And there appeared unto them Helias with Moses: and they talked with Iesu. And Peter answered and said to Iesu: Master, here is good being for us, let us make iij. tabernacles, one for thee, one for Moses, and one for Helias. And wist not what he said. For they were afraid. And there was a cloud that shadowed them. And a voice came out of the cloud saying: This is my dear son, hear him. And suddenly, they looked round about them, and saw no man more, but Iesus only.
As they came down from the hill, he charged them, that they should tell no man what they had seen, till the son of man were risen from death again. And they kept that saying within them, and demanded one of another, what that rising from death again should mean? And they asked him saying: why then Say the scribes, that Helias must first come? He answered and said unto them: Helias at his first coming, shall bring all things again into good order: And even so is it written of the son of man, that he shall suffer many things, and shall be set at nought. And I say unto you, that Helias is come, and they have done unto him whatsoever pleased them, as it is written of him.
And he came to his disciples, and saw much people about them, and the scribes disputing with them. And straightway all the people beheld him and were amazed, and ran to him, and saluted him. And he said unto the scribes: What dispute ye with them? And one of the company answered and said: Master I have brought my son unto thee, which hath a dumb spirit. And whensoever he taketh him, he teareth him, and he foameth, and gnasheth with his teeth, and pineth away. And I spake to thy disciples that they should cast him out, and they could not.
He answered him and said: O generation without faith, how long shall I be with you. How long shall I suffer you? bring him unto me. And they brought him unto him. And as soon as the spirit saw him, he tare him. And he fell down on the ground wallowing: And foaming. And he asked his father: how long is it ago, since this hath happened him? And he said, of a child. And often times casteth him into the fire, and also into the water, to destroy him. But if thou canst do anything, have mercy on us, and help us. Iesus said unto him: ye if thou couldest believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. And straight way the father of the child cried with tears saying: lord I believe, succor mine unbelief.
When Iesus saw that the people came running together unto him, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him: Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee come out of him, and enter no more into him. And the spirit cried, and rent him sore and came out: And he was as one that had been dead, insomuch that many said, he is dead. But Iesus caught his hand, and lift him up, and he rose. And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him secretly: why could not we cast him out? And he said unto them: this kind can by no other means come forth, but by prayer and fasting.
And they departed thence, and took their journey thorow Galile, and would not, that any man should have known it. For he taught his disciples, and said unto them: The son of man shall be delivered into the hands of men, and they shall kill him, and after that he is killed he shall arise again the third day. But they wist not what that saying meant, and were afraid to ask him.
And he came to Capernaum, and when he was come to house, he said to them: what was it that ye disputed between you by the way? And they held their peace (for by the way they reasoned among themselves, who should be the chiefest) And he sat down, and called the twelve unto him, and said to them: if any man desire to be first, the same shallbe last of all, and servant unto all. And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them, and took him in his arms and said unto them: Whosoever receive any such a child in my name, receiveth me: And whosoever receiveth me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me.
Ihon answered him, saying: Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, which followeth not us and we forbade him, because he followeth us not. But Iesus said: forbid him not. For there is no man that shall do a miracle in my name, and can speak lightly evil of me. Whosoever is not against you, is on your part. And whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink for my name's sake because ye are belonging to Christe, verily I say unto you, he shall not lose his reward.
And whosoever shall hurt one of these little ones, that believe in me, it were better for him, that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were cast into the sea. And if thy hand offend thee, cut him off. It is better for thee, to enter into life maimed, than to go, with two hands into hell, into fire that never shall be quenched, where their worm dieth not, and the fire never goeth out. And if thy foot offend thee, cut him off. It is better for thee to go halt into life, than with ij. feet to be cast into hell, into fire that never shall be quenched: where their worm dieth not, and the fire never goeth out? And if thine eye offend thee pluck him out. It is better for thee to go into the kingdom of God with one eye, than having two eyes to be cast into hell fire: where their worm dieth not, and the fire never goeth out.
Every man therefore shall be salted with fire: And every sacrifice shall be seasoned with salt. Salt is good. But if the salt be unsavoury: what shall ye salt therewith? See that ye have salt in yourselves. And have peace among yourselves, one with another.
The .x. Chapter.
And he rose from thence, and went into the coasts of Iewry through the region that is beyond Iordan. And the people resorted unto him afresh: And as he was wont he taught them again. And the Pharises came and asked him a question: whether it were lawful for a man to put away his wife: To prove him. He answered and said unto them: what did Moses bid you do? And they said: Moses suffered to write a testimonial of her divorcement, and to put her away. And Iesus answered, and said unto them: For because of your hard hearts he wrote this precept unto you. But at the first creation, God made them man and woman, saying: For this thing's sake shall man leave father and mother, and bide by his wife, and, ij. shall be made one flesh. So then are they now not twain, but one flesh, therefore that which God hath coupled, let not man separate.
And in the house his disciples asked him again of that matter. And he said unto them: Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, breaketh wedlock to herward. And if a woman forsake her husband, and be married to another, she committeth advoutry.
And they brought children to him that he should touch them. And his disciples chid those that brought them. When Iesus saw that, he was displeased, and said to them: Suffer the children to come unto me and forbid them not. For unto such belongeth the kingdom of God. Verily I say to you, whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a child, he shall not enter therein. And he took them up in his arms, and put his hands upon them, and blessed them.
And when he was come out into the way, there came one running and kneeled to him, and asked him: Good Master, what shall I do, that I may inherit eternal life? Iesus said to him: why callest thou me good? there is no man good but one, which is God. Thou knowest the commandments: break not matrimony, kill not, steal not, bear no false witness, defraud no man, honour thy father and thy mother. He answered and said to him: master, all these I have observed from my youth. Iesus beheld him, and had a favour to him, and said unto him: One thing is lacking unto thee Go, and sell all that thou hast, and give it to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven, and come and follow me, and take thy cross on thee. But he was discomforted with that saying, and went away mourning, for he had great possessions.
And Iesus looked round about, and said unto his disciples: with what difficulty shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God. His disciples were astonied at his words. Iesus answered again, and said unto them: children, how hard is it for them, that trust in their riches, to enter into the kingdom of God? It is easier for a camel to go thorow the eye of an needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. And they were astonied out of measure, saying between themselves: who then can be saved? Iesus looked upon them, and said: with men it is unpossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.
And Peter began to say unto him: Lo, we have forsaken all, and have followed thee. Iesus answered and said: Verily I say unto you, there is no man that hath forsaketh house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, other children, or lands, for my sake and the Gospel's, which shall not receive an hundred fold now in this life, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers and children, and lands with persecutions, and in the world to come eternal life. Many that are first, shall be last. And the last first. They were in the way going up to Ierusalem. And Iesus went before them, and they were amazed, and as they followed, were afraid.
And Iesus took the xij. again, and began to tell them what things should happen unto him. Behold we go up to Ierusalem, and the son of man shall be delivered unto the high priests and unto the scribes: and they shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver him to the gentiles, and they shall mock him, and scourge him and spit upon him, and kill him, and the third day he shall rise again.
And Iames and Ihon the sons of Zebedee, came unto him, saying: Master, we would that thou shouldest do for us whatsoever we desire. He said unto them: what would ye I should do unto you? They said to him: grant unto us that we may sit one on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory. But Iesus said unto them: Ye wot not what ye ask. Can ye drink of the cup, that I shall drink of? And be baptised in the baptism that I shall be baptised in? And they said unto him: that we can. Iesus said unto them: ye shall drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and be baptised with the baptism that I shall be baptised in: But to sit on my right hand and on my left hand, is not mine to give, but to them for whom it is prepared.
And when the x. heard that, they began to disdain at Iames and Ihon. But Iesus called them unto him, and said to them: Ye know well that they which seem to bear rule among the gentiles, reign as lords over them. And they that be great among them exercise authority over them. So shall it not be among you but whosoever of you will be great among you shall be your minister. And whosoever will be chief, shall be servant unto all. For even the son of man came, not that other should minister unto him: but to minister, and to give his life for the redemption of many.
And they came to Hiericho, and as he went out of Hiericho, with his disciples and a great number of people: Barthimeus the son of Thimeus which was blind, sat by the highways side begging. And when he heard that it was Iesus of Nazareth, he began to cry and to say: Iesus the son of David, have mercy on me. And many rebuked him, because he should hold his peace. But he cried the more a great deal, thou son of David have mercy on me. And Iesus stood still, and commanded him to be called, and they called the blind, saying unto him: Be of good comfort, rise, he called thee. He threw away his cloak, and rose and came to Iesus: And Iesus answered, and said unto him: what wilt thou that I do unto thee? The blind said unto him: Master, that I might see. Iesus said unto him: go thy way, thy faith hath saved thee: And by and by he received his sight, and followed Iesus in the way.
The .xj. Chapter.
And when they came nigh to Hierusalem, unto Bethphage, and Bethani, besides mount Olivete, he sent forth ij. of his disciples, and said unto them: Go your ways into the town that is over against you. And as soon as ye be entered into it ye shall find a colt bound, whereon never man sat: loose him and bring him hither. And if any man say unto you: why do ye so? say that the lord hath need of him: and straightway he will send him hither. And they went their way, and found a colt tied by the door without in a place where two ways met, and they loosed him. And divers of them that stood there, said unto them: what do ye loosing the colt? And they said unto them even as Iesus had commanded them. And they let them go. And they brought the colt to Iesus, and cast their garments on him, and he sat upon him. And many spread their garments in the way. Other cut down branches of the trees, and strawed them in the way. And they that went before and they that followed, cried, saying: Hosianna: blessed be he that cometh in the name of the lord. Blessed be the kingdom that cometh in the name of him that is lord of our father David. Hosianna in the highest.
And the lord entered into Hierusalem, and into the temple. And when he had looked round about upon all things, and now the eventide was come he went out unto Bethany with the twelve. And on the morrow when they were come out from Bethany, he hungered, and he spied a fig tree afar off, having leaves, and went to see whether he might find anything thereon: but when he came thereto, he found nothing but leaves. For the time of figs was not yet. And Iesus answered and said to it: never man eat fruit of thee hereafter while the world standeth. And his disciples heard it.
And they came to Hierusalem, and Iesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them which sold and bought in the temple. And overthrew the tables of the money changers, and the stools of them that sold doves: and would not suffer that any man carried a vessel thorow the temple. And he taught saying unto them, is it not written, how that mine house shall be called the house of prayer unto all nations? But ye have made it a den of thieves.
And the scribes and high priests heard it and sought how to destroy him. For they feared him because all the people marvelled at his doctrine. And when even was come, he went out of the city. And in the morning as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up by the roots. And Peter remembered, and said unto him: master, behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst, is withered away. And Iesus answered, and said unto them: Have confidence in God. Verily I say unto you, that whosoever shall say unto this mountain: take away thyself, and cast thyself into the sea, and shall not waver in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he sayeth shall come to pass, whatsoever he sayeth shall be done to him. Therefore I say unto you, whatsoever ye desire when ye pray, believe that ye shall have it and it shall be done unto you. And when ye stand and pray, forgive if ye have anything against any man: that your father also which is in heaven, may forgive you your trespasses. And they came again to Hierusalem, and as he walked in the temple, there came to him the high priests, and the scribes, and the seniors, and said unto him: by what authority doest thou these things? and who gave thee this authority, to do these things? Iesus answered, and said unto them: I will also ask of you a certain thing, and answer ye me, and I will tell you by what authority I do these things. Whether was the baptism of Ihon from heaven, or of men? Answer me. And they thought in themselves, saying: if we shall say, from heaven, he will say: why then did ye not believe him? but if we shall say, of men, then fear we the people. For all men counted Ihon, that he was a very prophet. And they answered, and said unto Iesu: we cannot tell. And Iesus answered, and said unto them: neither will I tell you, by what authority I do these things.
The .xij. Chapter.
And he began to speak unto them in similitudes. A certain man planted a vineyard, and compassed it with an hedge, and ordained a winepress, and built a tower in it, and let it out to hire unto husbandmen, and went into a strange country. And when the time was come he sent to the tenants a servant that he might receive of the tenants of the fruit of the vineyard. And they caught him and beat him and sent him again empty. And moreover he sent unto them another servant, and at him they cast stones and brake his head, and sent him again all too reviled. And again he sent another, and him they killed: and many other, beating some, and killing some.
Yet had he one son whom he loved tenderly, him also sent he at the last unto them, saying: they will fear my son. But the tenants said within themselves: This is the heir, come let us kill him and the inheritance shall be ours. And they took him and killed him, and cast him out of the vineyard. What shall then the lord of the vineyard do? He will come and destroy the tenants, and let out the vineyard to other. Have ye not read this scripture? the stone which the builders did refuse, is made the chief stone in the corner: This was done of the lord, and is marvellous in our eyes. And they went about to take him, but they feared the people. For they perceived that he spake that similitude against them. And they left him and went their way.
And they sent unto him certain of the pharisees with Herode's servants, to take him in his words. And as soon as they were come, they said unto him: master, we know that thou art true, and carest for no man: For thou considerest not the degree of men, but teachest the way of God truly: Is it lawful to pay tribute to Cesar, or not? ought we to give, or ought we not to give? He knew their dissimulation, and said unto them: Why tempt ye me? Bring me a penny, that I may see it. And they brought him one. And he said unto them: Whose is this image and superscription? And they said unto him, Cesar's. And Iesus answered, and said unto them: Then give to Cesar that which belongeth to Cesar: and give God that which pertaineth to God. And they marvelled at him.
And the Saduces came unto him, which say, there is no resurrection. And they asked him saying: Master, Moses wrote unto us, if any man's brother die, and leave his wife, behind him, and leave no children: that then his brother should take his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother. There were seven brethren and the first took a wife, and when he died left no seed behind him. And the second took her, and died: neither left he any seed, and the third likewise. And seven had her, and left no seed behind them. Last of all the wife died also. In the resurrection then, when they shall rise again: whose wife shall she be of them? For seven had her to wife. Iesus answered, and said unto them: Are ye not therefore deceived because ye know not the scriptures? Neither the power of God? For when they shall rise again from death, they neither marry, nor are married: but are as the angels which are in heaven. As touching the dead, that they shall rise again: have ye not read in the book of Moses, how in the bush God spake unto him saying: I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Iacob? He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living, ye are therefore greatly deceived.
And there came one of the scribes, and when he had heard them disputing together, and perceived that he had answered them well, he asked him: Which is the first of all the commandments? Iesus answered him: the first of all the commandments is. Hear Israhel, our lord God, is one lord. And thou shalt love thy lord God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength. This is the first commandment. And the second is like unto this. Thou shalt love thy neighbor, as thy self. There is none other commandment greater than these.
And the scribe said unto him: well master, thou hast said the truth, that there is one God, and that there is none but he. And to love him with all the heart, and with all the mind, and with all the soul, and with all the strength. And to love a man's neighbor as himself, is a greater thing than all holocausts and sacrifices. And when Iesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him: Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question.
And Iesus answered, and said teaching in the temple: how say the scribes, that Christ is the son of David? for David himself inspired with the holy ghost said: The lord said to my lord, sit on my right hand till I make thine enemies thy foot stool. Then David himself calleth him lord, and by what means is he then his son? And much people heard him gladly.
And he said unto them in his doctrine: beware of the scribes which love to go in long, clothing: and love salutations in the market places, and the chief seats in the synagogues, and to sit in the uppermost rooms at feasts, and devour widows' houses, and under a colour pray long prayers. These shall have greater damnation.
And Iesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people put money into the treasury. And many that were rich, cast in much. And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing. And he called unto him his disciples, and said unto them: Verily I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury. For they all put in of their superfluity: But she of her poverty, cast in all that she had, even all her living.
The .xiij. Chapter.
And as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples said unto him: Master, see what stones, and what buildings are here. And Iesus answered, and said unto him: Seest thou these great buildings? There shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.
And as he sat on mount Olivet over against the temple, Peter and Iames and Ihon and Andrew asked him secretly, tell us when these things shall be? And what is the sign, when all these things shall be fulfilled? And Iesus answered them, and began to say: take heed lest any man deceive you. For many shall come in my name saying: I am Christ, and shall deceive many.
When ye shall hear of war, and tidings of war, be ye not troubled. For such things must needs be. But the end is not yet. For there shall nation arise against nation, and realm against realm. And there shall be earthquakes, in all quarters, and famishment, and troubles. These are the beginning of sorrows.
But take ye heed to yourselves. For they shall bring you up to the councils and into the synagogues, and ye shall be beaten, and ye shall be brought before rulers and kings, for my sake, for a testimonial unto them. And the gospel must first be published among all nations.
But when they lead you and present you take no thought, aforehand what ye shall say, neither imagine: but whatsoever is given you at the same time, that speak. For it shall not be ye that shall speak, but the holy ghost. Yea and the brother shall deliver the brother to death. And the father the son, and the children shall rise against their fathers and mothers, and shall put them to death. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake. But whosoever shall endure unto the end shall be safe.
Moreover when ye see the abominable desolation, whereof is spoken by Daniel the prophet, stand where it ought not, let him that readeth understand it. Then let them that be in Iewry, flee to the mountains. And let him that is on the housetop, not descend down into the house, neither enter therein, to fetch anything out of his house. And let him that is in the field, not turn back again unto those things which he left behind him, for to take his clothes with him. But woe is then to them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days. But pray, that your flight be not in the winter. For there shall be in those days such tribulation, as was not from the beginning of creatures, which God created, unto this time, neither shall be. And except that the lord had shortened those days, no man should be saved. But for the elects' sake, which he hath chosen, he hath shortened those days.
And then, if any man say to you: lo, here is Christ, lo, he is there, believe not. For false christs shall arise, and false prophets, And shall shew miracles and wonders, to deceive if it were possible, even the elect. But take ye heed, behold I have shewed you all things before.
Moreover in those days after that tribulation, the sun shall wax dark, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars of heaven shall fall, And the powers which are in heaven, shall move. And then shall they see the son of man coming in the clouds, with great power and glory. And then shall he send his angels, and shall gather together his elect from the four winds, and from the one end of the world to the other.
Learn a similitude of the fig tree. When his branches are yet tender, and hath brought forth leaves, ye know, that summer is near. So in like manner when ye see these things come to pass, understand, that it is nigh even at the doors. Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not pass till all these things be done. Heaven and earth shall pass, but my words shall not pass. But of the day and the hour, knoweth no man: no not the Angels which are in heaven: neither the son himself, save the father only.
Take heed, watch, and pray, for ye know not when the time is. As a man which is gone into a strange country and hath left his house, and given authority to his servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. Watch therefore, for ye know not when the master of the house will come, whether at even, or at midnight, whether at the cock crowing, or in the dawning: lest if he come suddenly, he should find you sleeping. And that I say unto you, I say unto all men, watch.
The .xiiij. Chapter.
After two days followed ester, and the days of sweet bread. And the high priests and the scribes sought means, how they might take him by craft and put him to death. But they said: not on the feast day, least any business arise among the people.
When he was in Bethania, in the house of Simon the leper, even as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box of ointment, called nard, that was pure and costly, and she brake the box and poured it on his head. And there were some that disdained in themselves, and said: what needed this waste of ointment? For it might have been sold for more than two hundred pence, and been given unto the poor. And they grudged against her.
And Iesus said: let her be in rest, why grieve ye her? She hath done a good work on me. Yea, and ye shall have poor with you all ways: and whensoever ye will ye may do them good: but me ye shall not have always. She hath done that she could: she came aforehand to anoint my body to his buryingward. Verily I say unto you: wheresoever this gospel shall be preached thorowout the whole world: this also that she hath done, shall be rehearsed in remembrance of her.
And Iudas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went away unto the high priests, to betray him unto them. When they heard that, they were glad, and promised that they would give him money. And he sought, how he might conveniently betray him.
And the first day of sweet bread, when men offer the paschal lamb, his disciples said unto him: where wilt thou that we go and prepare that thou mayest eat the ester lamb? And he sent forth two of his disciples, and said unto them: Go ye into the city, and there shall a man meet you bearing a pitcher of water, follow him. And whithersoever he goeth in, say ye to the good man of the house: the master asketh where is the guest chamber, where I shall eat the ester lamb with my disciples? And he will shew you a great parlour, paved, and prepared: there make ready for us. And his disciples went forth, and came in to the city, and found as he had said unto them, and made ready the ester lamb.
And at even, he came with the twelve. And as they sat at board and ate, Iesus said: Verily I say unto you: that one of you shall betray me, which eateth with me. And they began to mourn, and to say to him one by one: is it I? And another said: Is it I? he answered, and said unto them: It is one of the xij. and the same dippeth with me in the platter. The son of man goeth, as it is written of him: but woe be to that man, by whom the son of man is betrayed. Good were it for him, if that man had never been born.
And as they ate, Iesus took bread, gave thanks, brake it and gave it to them and said: Take, eat, This is my body. And he took the cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, and they drank all of it. And he said unto them: This is my blood of the new Testament, which shall be shed for many. Verily I say unto you: I will drink no more of this fruit of the vine, until that day, that I shall drink it new in the kingdom of God. And when they had said grace, they went out into the mount olivet.
And Iesus said unto them: All ye shall hurt thorow me this night. For it is written: I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered. But after that I am risen again I will go into Galile before you. Peter said unto him: And though all men should be hurt, yet would not I. And Iesus said unto him: Verily I say unto thee this day even in this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. And he spake bolder: no, if I should die with thee, I will not deny thee. Likewise also said they all.
And they came into a place named Gethsemani. And he said to his disciples: Sit ye here while I go apart and pray. And he took with him Peter, Iames, and Ihon, and he began to wax abashed and to be in an agony. And said unto them: My soul is very heavy even unto the death, tarry here and watch. And he went forth a little and fell down on the ground and prayed: That if it were possible, the hour might pass from him. And he said: Abba father, all things are possible unto thee, take away this cup from me. Nevertheless not that I will, but that thou wilt be done.
And he came and found them sleeping, and said to Peter: Simon sleepest thou? Couldest not thou watch with me one hour? watch ye, and pray, least ye enter into temptation, the spirit is ready, but the flesh is weak. And again he went away and prayed, and spake the same words. And he returned and found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy: neither could they tell what they might answer to him. And he came the third time, and said unto them: sleep hence forth and take your ease. It is enough. The hour is come, Behold the son of man shall be delivered into the hands of sinners. Rise up, let us go. Lo he that betrayeth me, is come nigh.
And immediately while he yet spake came Iudas, one of the twelve, and with him a great number of people with swords and staves from the high priests and scribes and seniors. He that betrayed him, gave them a general token, saying: whosoever I do kiss, he it is, take him, and lead him away warily. And as soon as he was come, he went straightway to him, and said unto him: master, master, and kissed him. And they laid their hands on him, and took him. And one of them that stood by drew out a sword, and smote a servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.
And Iesus answered and said unto them: ye came out as unto a thief with swords and with staves for to take me, I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and ye took me not, but that the scriptures should be fulfilled: And they all forsook him and ran away. And there was a certain young man that followed him clothed in linen upon the bare, and the young men caught him, and he left his linen and fled from them naked.
And they led Iesus away to the highest priest of all, and to him came all the high priests and the seniors, and the scribes. And Peter followed him a great way off even into the palace of the high priest, and he was there and sat with the servants, and warmed himself at the fire.
And the high priests and all the council sought for witness against Iesu, to put him to death, And they found none. Yet many bare false witness against him, but their witness agreed not together. And there arose certain and brought false witness against him, saying: We heard him say: I will destroy this temple made with hands, and within three days I will build another, made without hands. And their witness agreed not together.
And the highest priest stood up amongst them all, and asked Iesus saying: answerest thou nothing? How is it that these bear witness against thee? And he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again the highest priest asked him, and said unto him: Art thou the Christ the son of the blessed? And Iesus said: I am. And ye shall see the son of man sit on the right hand of power, and come in the clouds of heaven. Then the highest priest rent his clothes and said: what need we any further witness? ye have heard the blasphemy, what think ye? And they all gave sentence that he was worthy of death. And some began to spit at him, and to cover his face, and to beat him with their fists, and to say unto him, aread unto us. And the servants buffeted him on the face.
And Peter was beneath in the palace, and there came one of the wenches of the highest priest, And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked on him, and said: was not thou also with Iesus of Nazareth? And he denied it saying: I know him not, neither wot I what thou sayest: And he went out into the porch, and the cock crew. And a damsel saw him, and again began to say to them that stood by, this is one of them. And he denied it again. And anon after, again they that stood by, said to Peter: surely thou art one of them, for thou art of Galile, and thy speech agreeth thereto. And he began to curse and to swear, saying: I know not this man of whom ye speak. And again the cock crew. And Peter remembered the word that Iesus said unto him: before the cock crow twice, thou shalt deny me thrice, and began to weep.
The .xv. Chapter.
And anon in the dawning held the high priests a council with the seniors and the scribes, And also the whole congregation, and bound Iesus and led him away, and delivered him to Pilate. And Pilate asked him: art thou the king of the jewes? And he answered, and said unto him: thou sayest it. And the high priests accused him of many things. Pilate asked him again, saying: Answerest thou nothing? Behold how many things they lay unto thy charge. Iesus yet answered never a word, so that Pilate marvelled.
At the feast Pilate was wont to deliver at their pleasure a prisoner: whomsoever they would desire. And there was one named Barabas, which lay bound with them, that caused insurrection, and in the insurrection committed murder. And the people called unto him, and began to desire of him, according as he had ever done unto them. Pilate answered them, and said: Will ye that I loose unto you the king of the jewes? For he knew that the high priests had delivered him of envy. But the high priests had moved the people that he should rather deliver Barabas unto them.
Pilate answered again, and said unto them: What will ye then that I do with him, whom ye call the king of the jewes? And they cried again: crucify him. Pilate said unto them: What evil hath he done? And they cried the more fervently: Crucify him. Pilate willing to content the people, lowsed them Barabas, And delivered Iesus scourged for to be crucified.
And the soldiers led him away into the common hall, and called together the whole multitude, and they clothed him with purple, and they plaited a crown of thorns and crowned him with all, And began to salute him: Hail king of the jewes. And they smote him on the head with a reed, and spat upon him, and kneeled down and worshipped him.
And when they had mocked him, they took the purple off him, and put his own clothes on him, and led him out, to crucify him. And they compelled one that passed by, called Simon of Cyrene (which came out of the field, and was father of Alexander and Rufus) to bear his cross. And they brought him to a place named Golgotha (which is by interpretation, the place of dead men's skulls) and they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh, but he received it not.
And when they had crucified him, they parted his garments, casting lots for them, what every man should have. And it was about the third hour, and they crucified him. And the title of the cause of his death was written: The king of the jewes. And they crucified with him two thieves: the one on his right hand, and the other on his left hand. And the scripture was fulfilled, which sayeth: and he was counted among the wicked.
And they that went by, railed on him: wagging their heads, and saying: A wretch, that destroyest the temple and buildest it in three days. Save thyself, and come down from the cross. Likewise also mocked him the high priests among themselves with the scribes, and said: He saved other men, himself he cannot save. Let Christ the king of Israel now descend from the cross, that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with him, checked him also.
And when the sixth hour was come, darkness arose over all the earth, until the ninth hour. And at the ninth hour Iesus cried with a loud voice, saying: Eloi, Eloi, lama sabaththani, which is if it be interpreted: my God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? And some of them that stood by when they heard that said: behold he calleth for Helias. And one ran, and filled a sponge full of vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave it him to drink, saying: let him alone, let us see whether Helias will come and take him down.
But Iesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost. And the veil of the temple did rent in two parts, from the top to the bottom. And when the undercaptain which stood before him saw that he so cried and gave up the ghost, and he said: truly this man was the son of God. There were also women a good way off beholding him: among whom was Mary Magdalen, and Mary the mother of Iames the little and of Ioses, and Mary Salome: which also when he was in Galile, followed him and ministered unto him, and many other women which came up with him to Hierusalem.
And now when night was come (because it was the even that goeth before the saboth) Ioseph of Arimathia a noble senator (which also looked for the kingdom of God) came And went in boldly unto Pilate, and begged the body of Iesu. Pilate marvelled that he was already dead, and called unto him the under captain, and asked of him, whether he had been any while dead. And when he knew the truth of the under captain, he gave the body to Ioseph. And he bought a linen cloth, and took him down and wrapped him in the linen cloth, and laid him in a tomb, that was hewn out of the rock. And rolled a stone unto the door of the sepulcre. And Mary Magdalene and Mary Iose beheld where he was laid.
The .xvj. Chapter.
And when the saboth day was past, Mary Magdalen, and Mary Iacobi, and Salome, bought ointments, that they might come and anoint him. And early in the morning the next day after the saboth day, they came unto the sepulchre, when the sun was risen. And they said one to another: who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre? And when they beheld it, they saw how the stone was rolled away. For it was a very great one, and they went into the sepulchre, and saw a young man, sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment, and they were abashed.
He said unto them, be not afraid, ye seek Iesus of Nazareth, which was crucified. He is risen, he is not here. Behold the place, where they put him. But go your way, and tell his disciples, and namely Peter, that he is gone before you into Galile, there shall ye see him, as he said unto you. And they went out quickly and fled from the sepulchre. For they trembled and were amazed. Neither said they anything to any man, for they were afraid.
When Iesus was risen the morrow after the saboth day, he appeared first to Mary Magdalen, out of whom he cast seven devils. And she went, and told them that were with him, as they mourned and wept. And when they heard, that he was alive, and had appeared to her: they believed it not. After that, he appeared unto two of them in a strange figure, as he walked, and went into the country. And they went, and told it to the remnant. And they believed them neither.
After that he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at meat: and cast in their teeth their unbelief, and hardness of heart: because they believed not them which had seen him after his resurrection. And he said unto them: Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to all creatures: Whosoever believeth, and is baptised, shall be safe: And whosoever that believeth not, shall be damned.
And these signs shall follow them that believe: In my name they shall cast out devils, and shall speak with new tongues, and shall kill serpents. And if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them. They shall lay their hands on the sick, and they shall recover. So then when the lord had spoken unto them, he was received into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. And they went forth, and preached everywhere. And the lord wrought with them, And confirmed their preaching with miracles that followed.
The end of the gospell off S. Marke.
The first Chapter.
Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to compile a treatise of those things, which are surely known among us, even as they declared them unto us, which from the beginning saw them with their eyes, and were ministers at the doing: I determined also, as soon as I had searched out diligently all things from the beggining, that then I would write unto thee, good Theophilus, that thou mightest know the certainty of those things, whereof thou art informed.
In the time of Herode king of jewry, there was a certain priest named Zacharias, of the course of Abie. And his wife was of the daughters of Aaron: And her name was Elizabeth. Both were perfect before God, and walked in all the laws and ordinances of the lord that no man could find fault with them. And they had no child, because that Elizabeth was barren, And both were well stricken in age.
It came to pass, as he executed the priest's office, before God as his course came (according to the custom of the priest's office) his lot was to burn odoures. And went into the temple of the lord, and all the multitude of people were without in their prayers while the odoures were a burning. There appeared unto him the lord's angel, standing on the right side of the altar of odoures. And when Zacharias saw him, he was abashed, and fear came on him.
The angel said unto him: fear not Zacary, for thy prayer is heard: And thy wife Helizabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name Ihon: And thou shalt have joy and gladness: And many shall rejoice at his birth. For he shall be great in the sight of God, and shall neither drink wine nor strong drink. And he shall be filled with the holy ghost, even in his mother's womb: and many of the children of Israhel shall he turn to their lord God. And he shall go before him in the spirit and power of Helias to turn the hearts of the fathers to their children, and the unbelievers to the wisdom of the just men: to make the people ready for the lord.
And Zacary said unto the angel: Whereby shall I know this? seeing that I am old, and my wife well stricken in years. And the angel answered, and said unto him: I am Gabriel that stand in the presence of God, and am sent to speak unto thee: and to shew thee this glad tidings. And take heed thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak until the time that these things be performed, because thou believedst not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.
And the people waited for Zacharias and marvelled that he tarried in the temple. When he came out, he could not speak unto them. And they perceived, that he had seen some vision in the temple. And he beckoned unto them, and remained speechless.
And it fortuned, as soon as the time of his office was out, he departed home into his own house. And after those days, his wife Elizabeth conceived, and hid herself v. months, saying: This wise hath God dealt with me in the days when he looked on me, to take from me the rebuke that I suffered among men.
And in the vj. month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of Galile, named Nazareth, to a virgin spoused to a man, whose name was Ioseph, of the house of David, and the virgins name was Mary. And the angel went in unto her, and said: Hail full of grace, the lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women. When she saw him, she was abashed at his saying: and cast in her mind what manner of salutation that should be. And the angel said unto her: fear not Mary, thou hast found grace with God. Lo: thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and shalt bear a child, and shalt call his name Iesus. He shall be great, and shall be called the son of the highest. And the lord God shall give unto him the seat of his father David: And he shall reign over the house of Iacob for ever, and of his kingdom shall be none end.
Then said Mary unto the angel: How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered, and said unto her: The holy ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the highest shall overshadow thee. Therefore also that holy thing which shall be born, shall be called the son of God. And mark, thy cousin Elizabeth, hath also conceived a son in her old age. And this is the. vj. month to her, which was called barren, for with God shall nothing be unpossible. Mary said: behold the handmaiden of the lord, be it unto me even as thou hast said. And the angel departed from her.
Mary arose in those days, and went into the mountains with haste into a city of jewry, and entered into the house of Zachary, and saluted Elizabeth: And it fortuned, as Elizabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the babe sprang in her belly. And Elizabeth was filled with the holy ghost, and cried with a loud voice, and said: Blessed art thou among the women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. And whence happeneth this to me, that the mother of my lord should come to me? Lo, as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe sprang in my belly for joy. And blessed art thou that believedst: For those things shall be performed which were told thee from the lord.
And Mary said: My soul magnifieth the lord. And my spirit rejoiceth in God my saviour: For he hath looked on the poor degree of his handmaiden. Behold now from hence forth shall all generations call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath done to me great things, and blessed is his name. And his mercy is always on them that fear him thorow out all generations. He hath shewed strength with his arm, he hath scattered them that are proud in the imagination of their hearts. He hath put Down the mighty from their seats, and hath exalted them of low degree. He hath filled the hungry with good things: And hath sent away the rich empty. He hath remembered mercy: and hath holpen his servant Israhel. Even as he promised to our fathers, Abraham and to his seed for ever. And Mary abode with her about a iij. months, And returned home again.
Elizabeths time was come that she should be delivered, And she brought forth a son. And her neighbours and her cousins heard tell how, the lord had magnified his mercy upon her, and they rejoiced with her.
And it fortuned the eighth day: they came to circumcise the child: and called his name Zacari after the name of his father, and his mother answered, and said: not so, but he shall be called Ihon. And they said unto her: There is none of thy kin, that is named with this name. And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called. And he asked for writing tables and wrote saying: his name is Ihon. And they marvelled all. And his mought was opened immediately, and his tongue, and he spake lauding God. And fear came on all them that dwelt nigh: And all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill country of jewry: and all they that heard them laid them up in their hearts, saying: What manner child shall this be? And the hand of God was with him.
And his father Zacharias was filled with the holy ghost, and prophesied saying: Blessed be the lord God of Israhel, for he hath visited and redeemed his people. And hath raised up an horn of salvation unto us, in the house of his servant David. Even as he promised by the mouth of his holy prophets which were since the world began. That we should be saved from our enemies: And from the hands of all that hate us: To shew mercy towards our fathers, and to remember his holy promise. That is to say the oath, which he sware to our father Abraham, for to give us. That we delivered out of the hands of our enemies, might serve him without fear: all the days of our life, in such holiness and righteousness that are accept before him. And thou child, shalt be called the prophet of the highest, for thou shalt go before the face of the lord, to prepare his ways: And to give knowledge of health unto his people, for the remission of sins: Through the tender mercy of our lord, wherewith hath visited us the day spring from on high: To give light to them that sat in darkness, and in shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace. And the child increased and waxed strong in spirit, and was in wilderness, till the day came, when he should shew himself unto the Israhelites.
The second Chapter.
It followed in those days: that there went out a commandment from August the Emperor, that all the world should be valued. This taxing was first executed when Syrenus was leftenant in Syria. And every man went into his own shire town, there to be taxed. And Ioseph also ascended from Galilee, out of a city called Nazareth, into jewry: into the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David to be taxed with Mary his wedded wife, which was with child.
And it fortuned while they were there, her time was come that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her first begotten son. And wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them within, in the hostry.
And there were in the same region shepherds abiding in the field, and watching their flock by night. And lo: the angel of the lord stood hard by them, and the brightness of the lord shone round about them, and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them: Be not afraid: Behold I bring you tidings of great joy, that shall come to all the people: for unto you is born this day in the city of David a saviour, which is Christ the lord. And take this for a sign: ye shall find the child swaddled, and laid in a manger. And straight way there was with the angel a multitude of heavenly soldiers, lauding God, and saying: Glory to God on high, and peace on the earth: and unto men rejoicing.
And it fortuned, as soon as the angels were gone away into heaven, the shepherds said one to another: let us go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing that is happened, which the lord hath shewed unto us. And they came with haste, and found Mary and Ioseph, and the babe laid in a manger. And when they had seen it, they published abroad the saying, which was told them of that child. And all that heard it wondered, at those things which were told them of the shepherds. But Mary kept all those sayings, and pondered them in her heart. And the shepherds returned, praising and lauding God for all that they had heard and seen, even as it was told unto them.
And when the eighth day was come that the child should be circumcised, his name was called Iesus, which was named of the Angel before he was conceived in the mother's womb.
And when the time of their purification (after the law of Moses) was come they brought him to Hierusalem, to present him to the lord (As it is written in the law of the lord: every man child that first openeth the matrix, shall be called holy to the lord) and to offer (as it is said in the law of the lord) a pair of turtle doves, or ij. young pigeons.
And behold there was a man in Hierusalem, whose name was Simeon. And the same man was just and feared God, and longed for the consolation of Israhel, and the holy ghost was in him. And an answer was given him of the holy ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the lord's Christ. And he came by inspiration into the temple.
And as the father and mother brought in the child Iesus, to do for him after the custom of the law: Then took he him up in his arms and said. Lord Now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace according to thy promise. For mine eyes have seen the saviour sent from thee: Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people. A light to lighten the gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israhel. And his father and mother marvelled at those things, which were spoken of him: And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother: behold, this child shall be the fall, and resurrection of many in Israhel: And a sign which shall be spoken against. And moreover the sword shall pierce the very heart of thee, that the thoughts of many hearts may be opened.
And there was Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel of tribe of Aser. And she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband. vij. years from her virginity. And this widow about iiij. score and iiij. years of age, which went never out of the temple, but served there with fasting and prayer night and day. And she came forth that same hour, and praised God, and spake of him to all that looked for redemption in Hierusalem.
And as soon as they had performed all things according to the law of the lord, they returned into Galile into their own city Nazareth. And the child grew and waxed strong in spirit, and was full of wisdom, and the favour of God was with him.
And his father and mother went to Hierusalem every year at the feast of ester. And when he was xij. years old, they went up to Hierusalem after the custom of the feast. And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned home, the child Iesus bode still in Hierusalem, unknowing to his father and mother. For they supposed he had been in the company. They came a day's journey, and sought him among their kinsfolk and acquaintance, and found him not They went back again to Hierusalem, and sought him. And it fortuned after iij. days, they found him in the temple sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and posing them. And all that heard him marvelled at his wit and answers.
And when they saw him, they were astonied. And his mother said unto him: son why hast thou thus dealt with us? Behold thy father and I have sorowed and sought thee. And he said unto them: how is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must go about my father's business? And they understood not the saying that he spake to them. And he went with them, and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them. His mother kept all these things in her heart. And Iesus increased in wisdom and age, and in favour with God and man.
The .iij. Chapter.
In the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius the Emperor, Pontius Pilate being leftenant of Iewry, and Herod being Tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip Tetrarch in Iturea, and in the region of Traconitis, and Lysanias the Tetrarch of Abyline: When Anna and Cayphas were the high priests: The commandment of God was published unto Ihon the son of Zacharias in the wilderness. And he came into all the coasts about Iordan, preaching the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins, as it is written in the book of the sayings of Esayas the prophet, which sayeth: The voice of a crier in wilderness, prepare the way of the lord, make his paths straight. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill shall be brought low: And crooked things shall be made straight: and the rough ways shall be made smooth. And all flesh shall see the saviour sent of God.
Then said he to the people, that were come to be baptised of him. O generation of vipers: who hath shewed the craft to fly from wrath to come? Bring forth due fruits of repentance, And begin not to say in yourselves, we have Abraham to our father. For I say unto you: God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham. Now also is the axe laid unto the root of the trees. Every tree therefore, which bringeth not forth good fruit, shall be hewn down, and cast into the fire.
And the people asked him, saying: What shall we do then. He answered and said unto them: He that hath ij. coats, let him part with him that hath none: And he that hath meat, let him do likewise.
Then came there publicans to be baptised, and said unto him: Master, what shall we do? He answered unto them: require no more than that, which is appointed unto you.
The soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying: and what shall we do? And he said to them: Do violence to no man: neither trouble any man wrongfully: And be content with your wages.
As the people were in a doubt, and all men disputed in their hearts of Ihon: Whether he were very Christ, Ihon answered and said to them all: I baptise you with water, but a stronger then cometh, whose shoe latchet I am not worthy to unloose: he will baptise you with the holy ghost, and with fire, which hath his fan in his hand, and will purge his floor, and will gather his corn into his barn: And the chaff will he burn with fire that never shall be quenched. And many other things in his exhortation preached he unto the people.
Then Herod the Tetrach (when he was rebuked of him for Herodias his brother Philippe's wife, and for all the evils which Herod had done) added this above all, and laid Ihon prison.
And it fortuned as all the people received baptism (And when Iesus was baptised and did pray) that heaven was opened, and the holy ghost came down in a bodily shape like a dove upon him, And a voice came from heaven, saying: Thou art my dear son, In thee do I delight.
And Iesus himself was about thirty year of age when he began, being as men supposed the son of Ioseph: which Ioseph was the son of Heli: which was the son of Mathat: which was the son of Levi: which was the son of Melchi: which was the son of Ianna: which was the son of Ioseph: which was the son of Matatthias: which was the son of Amos: which was the son of Nahum: which was the son of Esli: which was the son of Nagge: which was the son of Maath: which was the son of Matathias: which was the son of Semei: which was the son of Ioseph: which was the son of Iuda: which was the son of Iohanna: which was the son of Rhesya: which was the son of Zorobabel: which was the son of Salathiel: which was the son of Neri: which was the son of Melchi: which was the son of Addi: which was the son of Cosam: which was the son of Helmadam: which was the son of Her: which was the son of Ieso: which was the son of Helieser: which was the son of Ioram: which was the son of Mattha: which was the son of Levi: which was the son of Simeon: which was the son of Iuda: which was the son of Ioseph: which was the son of Ionam: which was the son of Heliacim: which was the son of Melea: which was the son of Menam: which was the son of Matathan: which was the son of Nathan: which was the son of David: which was the son of Iesse: which was the son of Obed: which was the son of Boos: which was the son of Salmon: which was the son of Naason: which was the son of Aminadab: which was the son of Aram: which was the son of Esrom: which was the son of Phares: which was the son of Iuda: which was the son of Iacob: which was the son of Ysaac: which was the son of Abraham: which was the son of Tharra: which was the son of Nachor: which was the son of Saruch: which was the son of Ragau: which was the son of Phalec: which was the son of Heber: which was the son of Sala: which was the son of Cainan: which was the son of Arphaxad: which was the son of Sem: which was the son of Noe: which was the son of Lameth: which was the son of Mathusala: which was the son of Enoch: which was the son of Iareth: which was the son of Malalehel: which was the son of Cainan: which was the son of Enos: which was the son of Seth: which was the son of Adam: which was the son of God.
The .iiij. Chapter.
Iesus then full of the holy ghost, returned from Iordan, and was carried of the spirit into a wilderness, and was xl. days tempted of the devil. And in those days ate he nothing: And when they were ended, he afterward hungered. And the devil said unto him: if thou be the son of God, command this stone that he be bread. And Iesus answered him, saying: It is written: man shall not live by bread only, but by every word of God.
And the devil took him up into an high mountain, and shewed him all the kingdoms of the earth, even in the twinkling of an eye. And the devil said unto him: all this power will I give thee every whit, and the glory of them (for that is delivered to me, and to whosoever I will I give it. If thou therefore wilt worship me, they shall be all thine. Iesus answered and said unto him: hence from me Satan. For it is written. Thou shalt honour thy lord God, and him only serve.
And he carried him to Ierusalem, and set him on a pinnacle of the temple, and said unto him: If thou be the son of God, cast thyself down from hence. For it is written, he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee, and with their hands they shall stay thee up, that thou hurt not thy foot against a stone. Iesus answered and said unto him, it is said, thou shalt not tempt the thy lord God. And as soon as the devil had ended all his temptations, he departed from him for a season.
And Iesus returned by the power of the spirit into Galile, and the fame of him went thorow out all the region round about. And he taught in their synagogues, and was commended of all men.
And he came to Nazareth where he was nursed, and as his custom was, went into the synagogue on the saboth days, and stood up for to read. And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place, where it was written: The spirit of the lord upon me, because he hath anointed me, To preach the gospell to the poor he hath sent me, And to heal which are troubled in their hearts: To preach deliverance to the captive, And sight to the blind, And freely to set at liberty them that are bruised, And to preach the acceptable year of the lord.
And he closed the book, and gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all that were in the synagogue, were fastened on him. And he began to say unto them. This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears. And all they bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words, which proceeded out of his mouth, and said: Is not this Ioseph's son?
And he said unto them: Ye may very well say unto me this proverb. Physician, heal thyself. Whatsoever we have heard done in Capernaum, do the same likewise in thine own country. And he said: Verily I say unto you: No prophet is accepted in his own country.
But I tell you of a truth, Many widows were in Israhell in the days of Helyas, when heaven was shut three years and six months, when great famishment was throughout all the land, And unto none of them was Helyas sent, save into Sarepta besides Sydon unto a woman that was a widow. And many lepers were in Israhel in the time of Heliseus the prophet, and yet none of them was healed, saving Naaman of Siria.
And as many as were in the synagogue when they heard that, were filled with wrath and rose up, and thrust him out of the city, and led him even unto the edge of the hill, whereon their city was built, to cast him down headlong. But he went his way even thorow the midst of them: and came into Capernaum a city of Galile, and there taught them on the saboth days. And they were astonied at his doctrine: for his preaching was with power.
And in the synagogue there was a man, which had a foul spirit within him, and cried with a loud voice, saying: let me alone, what hast thou to do with us, thou Iesus of Nazareth? Art thou come to destroy us? I know thee what thou art, thou art the holy man of God. And Iesus rebuked him, saying: hold thy peace, and come out of him. And the devil threw him in the midst of them and came out of him, and hurt him not. And fear came on them all, And they spake among themselves, saying: what manner a thing is this? For with authority and power he commandeth the foul spirits and they come out? And the fame of him spread abroad thorow out all places of the country round about.
And he rose up and came out of the synagogue, and entered into Simon's house. And Simon's motherinlaw was taken with a great fever, And they made intercession to him for her. And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever: and it left her. And immediately she rose and ministered unto them.
When the son was down, all they that had sick, taken with divers diseases, brought them unto him: and he laid his hands on every one of them, and healed them. And devils also came out of many of them, crying and saying: thou art Christ the son of God. And he rebuked them, and suffered them not to speak, for they knew that he was Christ.
As soon as it was day, he departed and went away into a desert place, and the people sought him and came to him, and kept him that he should not depart from them. And he said unto them: I must to other cities also preach the word of God, for therefore am I sent. And he preached in the synagogues of Galilee.
The .v. Chapter.
It came to pass as the people pressed upon him, to hear the word of God, that he stood by the lake of Genazareth: and saw two ships stand by the lakeside, for the fishermen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets. Iesus entered into one of the ships, which pertained to Simon, and prayed him, that he would carry him a little from the land. And he sat down and taught the people out of the ship.
When he had left speaking, he said unto Simon: Carry us into the deep, and let slip thy net to make a draught. And Simon answered, and said to him: Master we have laboured all night, and have taken nothing. Yet now at thy word I will loose forth the net. And when they had so done, they inclosed a great multitude of fishes. And the net brake: and they made signs to their fellows which were in the other ship, that they should come and help them. And they came, and they filled both the ships, that they sunk again.
When Simon Peter saw that, he fell down at Iesus' knees saying: lord go from me, for I am a sinful man. For he was utterly astonied, and all that were with him at the draught of fish which they took: and so was also Iames and Ihon the sons of Zebedei, which were partakers with Simon. And Iesus said unto Simon: fear not, from henceforth thou shalt catch men. And they brought the ships to land, and forsook all, and followed him.
And it fortuned as he was in a certain city, and behold there was a man full of leprosy: and when he had spied Iesus, he fell on his face and besought him saying: lord if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And he stretched forth his hand, and touched him saying: I will, be thou clean. And immediately the leprosy departed from him. And he warned him, that he should tell no man: but that he should go and shew himself to the priest, and offer for his cleansing according as Moses commandment was, for a witness unto them.
But his name spread the more abroad, and the people came together to hear, and to be healed of him, of infirmities. And he kept himself apart in the wildernesses, and gave himself to prayer.
And it happened on a certain day, that he taught, and there sat the pharisees, and doctors of law, which were come out of all the towns of Galile, Iewry, and Ierusalem, and the power of the lord was to heal them. And behold, men brought a man lying in his bed, which was taken with a palsy, and they sought means to bring him in, and to lay him before him. And when they could not find by what way they might bring him in, because of the press, they went up on the top of the house, and let him down thorow the tiling, bed and all in the midst before Iesus. When he saw their faith he said unto him: man thy sins are forgiven thee. And the scribes, and the pharisees, began to think saying: What fellow is this: which speaketh blasphemy? Who can forgive sins, but God only?
When Iesus perceived their thoughts, he answered and said unto them: What think ye in your hearts? Whether is easier to say, thy sins are forgiven thee, or to say: Rise and walk? That ye may know that the son of man hath power to forgive sins on earth, he said unto the sick of the palsy: I say to thee, arise, take up thy bed and go home to thy house. And immediately he rose up before them all, and took up his bed whereon he lay, and departed to his own house praising God. And they were ail amazed, and they lauded God, and were filled with fear, saying: We have seen strange things today.
And after that he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him: follow me. And he left all, rose up, and followed him. And that same Levi made him a great feast at home in his own house. And there was a great company of publicans, and of other that sat at meat with him. And the scribes and pharisees murmured against his disciples, saying: Why eat ye and drink ye, with publicans and sinners? Iesus answered and said unto them: They that are whole, need not of the physician: but they that are sick. I came not to call the righteous to repentance: but the sinners.
They said unto him: Why do the disciples of Ihon fast often and pray: and the disciples of the pharisees also: and thine eat and drink? To whom he said: Can ye make the Children of the wedding fast, as long as the bridegroom is present with them? The days will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken away from them, then shall they fast in those days.
He spake unto them in a similitude: No man putteth a piece of a new garment, into an old vesture: for if he do, then breaketh he the new and the piece that was taken out of the new, agreeth not with the old. Also no man poureth new wine into old vessels, if he do, the new wine breaketh the vessels, and runneth out itself, and the vessels perish: But new wine must be poured into new vessels, and both are preserved. Also no man that drinketh old wine, straightway can away with new, for he sayeth: the old is pleasanter.
The .vj. Chapter.
It happened on an after Sabbath, they went thorow the corn field, and his disciples plucked the ears of corn, and ate them, and rubbed them in their hands. Certain of the pharisees said unto them: Why do ye that which is not lawful to be done on the saboth days? Iesus answered them and said: Have ye not read what David did, when he himself was an hungered, and they which were with him: how he went into the house of God, and took and ate the loaves of hallowed bread, and gave also to them which were with him: which was not lawful to eat, but for the priests only. And he said unto them: The son of man is lord even of the saboth day.
And it fortuned in another saboth also, that he entered into the synagogue and taught. And there was a man, whose right hand was dried up. The scribes, and pharisees watched him, to see whether he would heal on the saboth day or not, that they might find an accusation against him. But he knew their thoughts, and said to the man which had the withered hand: Rise up, and stand forth in the midst. He arose, and stepped forth. Then said Iesus unto them: I will ask you a question: Whether is it lawful on the saboth days to do good, or to do evil? to save life or for to destroy it? And he beheld them all in compass, and said unto the man: Stretch forth thy hand. He did so, and his hand was restored, and made as whole as the other. And they were filled full of madness, and communed one with another, what they might do to Iesu.
It fortuned in those days, he went out into a mountain for to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. And as soon as it was day, he called his disciples, and of them he chose twelve, which also he called his apostles. Simon, whom also he named Peter: and Andrew his brother, Iames and Ihon, Philip and Bartlemew, Matthew and Thomas, Iames the son of Alpheus and Simon called Zelotes, and Iudas Iames' son, and Iudas Iscariot, which same was the traitor.
And he came down with them and stood in the plain field with the company of his disciples, and a great multitude of people out of all parts of Iury and Ierusalem, and from the sea coast of Tyre and Sidon, which came to hear him, and to be healed of their diseases, and they also that were vexed with foul spirits, and they were healed. And all the people pressed to touch him: for there went virtue out of him, and healed them all.
And he lifted up his eyes upon the disciples, and said: Blessed are ye poor: for yours is the kingdom of God. Blessed are ye that hunger: for ye shall be satisfied. Blessed are ye that weep: for ye shall laugh. Blessed are ye when men hate you, and thrust you out of their company, and rail on you, and abhor your name, as an evil thing, for the son of man's sake. Rejoice ye then, and be glad: for behold your reward is great in heaven. After this manner their fathers entreated the prophets.
But woe be to you that are rich: for ye have therein your consolation. Woe be to you that are full: for ye shall hunger. Woe be to you that now laugh: for ye shall wail, and weep. Woe be to you when all men praise you: for so did their fathers to the false prophets.
But I say unto you which hear: Love your enemies. Do good to them which hate you. Bless them that curse you. And pray for them which wrongfully trouble you. And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek, offer also the other. And him that taketh away thy gown, forbid not to take thy coat also. Give to every man that asketh of thee. And if any man that take away thy goods, ask them not again. And as ye would that men should do to you: so do ye to them likewise.
If ye love them which love you: what thank are ye worthy of? seeing that the very sinners love their lovers. And if ye do for them which do for you: what thank are ye worthy of? For the very sinners do even the same. If ye lend to them of whom ye hope to receive: what thank shall ye have: for the very sinners, lend to sinners, to receive as much again. Love ye your enemies, do good, and lend, looking for nothing again: and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the highest: for he is kind unto the unkind, and to the evil.
Be ye therefore merciful, as your father is merciful. Judge not and ye shall not be judged. Condemn not: and ye shall not be condemned. Forgive, and ye shall be forgiven. Give, and it shall be given unto you: good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosoms. For with what measure ye mete, with the same shall men mete to you again.
And he put forth a similitude unto them: Can the blind lead the blind? Do they not both then fall into the ditch? The disciple is not above his master. Every man shall be perfect, even as his master is. Why seest thou a mote in thy brother's eye, and considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Other how canst thou say to thy brother: Brother let me pull out the mote that is in thine eye: when thou perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Hypocrite, cast out the beam out of thine own eye first, and then shalt thou see perfectly, to pull out the mote out of thy brother's eye.
It is not a good tree that bringeth forth evil fruit: Neither is that an evil tree, that bringeth forth good fruit. For every tree is known by his fruit. Neither of thorns gather men figs, nor of bushes gather they grapes. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good. And the evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart, bringeth forth that which is evil. For of the abundance of the heart, the mought speaketh.
Why call ye me Master, Master: and do not as I bid you? whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and doth the same, I will shew you to whom he is like. He is like a man which built an house: which digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock. When the waters arose, the flood beat upon that house, and could not move it. For it was grounded upon a rock. But he that heareth and doth not, is like a man, that without foundation built an house upon the earth, against which, the flood beat: and it fell by and by. And the fall of that house was great.
The .vij. Chapter.
When he had ended all his sayings in the audience of the people, he entered into Capernaum. And the servant of a certain Centurion was sick, and ready to die, whom he made much of. And when he heard of Iesu, he sent unto him the seniors of the jewes, beseeching him that he would come and heal his servant. And they came to Iesus and besought him instantly, saying: He is worthy that thou shouldest do this for him. For he loveth our nation, and hath built us a synagogue. And Iesus went with them.
And when he was not far from the house, the Centurion sent to him his friends, saying unto him: lord trouble not thyself, for I am not worthy that thou shouldest enter into my house. Wherefore I thought not myself worthy to come unto thee: but say the word and my servant shall be whole. For I likewise am a man under power, and have under me soldiers, and I say unto one, go: and he goeth. And to another, come: and he cometh. And to my servant, do this: and he doeth it. When Iesus heard this, he marvelled at him, and turned him about and said to the people that followed him: I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no not in Israhel, certainly. And they that were sent, turned back home again, and found the servant that was sick whole.
And it fortuned after that, he went into a city called Naym, and his disciples went with him, and a great number of people. When he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, which was the only son of his mother, and she was a widow, and much people of the city was with her. And the lord saw her, and had compassion on her, and said unto her: weep not. And went and touched the coffin, and they that bare him stood still. And he said: Young man, I say unto thee, arise. And the dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother. And there came a fear on them all. And they glorified God saying: a great prophet is risen among us, and God hath visited his people. And this rumor of him went forth throughout all Iewry, and thorowout all the regions which lie round about.
And unto Ihon shewed his disciples of all these things. And Ihon called unto him two of his disciples, and sent them to Iesus saying: Art thou he that shall come: or shall we look for another? When the men were come unto him, they said: Ihon baptist sent us unto thee saying: Art thou he that shall come: or shall we wait for another? At that same time, he cured many of their infirmities and plagues, And of evil spirits, and unto many that were blind, he gave sight. And he answered, and said unto them: Go your ways and shew Ihon, what things ye have heard and seen: how that the blind see, the halt go, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead arise: To the poor is the gospell preached, and happy is he that falleth not, by reason of me.
When the messengers of Ihon were departed, he began to speak unto the people of Ihon: What went ye out for to see into the desert? went ye to see a reed shaken with the wind? But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold they which are gorgeously apparelled, and live delicately, are in kings' courts. But what went ye forth to see? A prophet? Yea I say to you, and more than a prophet. This is he of whom it is written: Behold I send my messenger before thy face, to prepare thy way before thee. I say unto you: a greater prophet than Ihon, among women's children, is there none. Nevertheless one that is less in the kingdom of God, is greater than he.
And all the people that heard, and the publicans justified God, which were baptised in the baptism of Ihon. But the Pharises and scribes despised the counsel of God, against themselves, and were not baptised of him.
And the lord said: Whereunto shall I liken the men of this generation, and what thing are they like? They are like unto children sitting in the market place, and crying one to another, and saying: We have piped unto you, and ye have not danced: We have mourned to you, and ye have not wept. For Ihon baptist came unto you neither eating bread, nor drinking wine, and ye say: he hath the devil. The son of man is come and eateth and drinketh, and ye say: behold a man which is a glutton, and a drinker of wine, the friend of publicans and sinners. And wisdom justified of all her children.
And one of the pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the pharisee's house, and sat down to meat. And behold a woman in that city, which was a sinner, as soon as she knew that Iesus sat at meat in the pharisee's house, she brought an alabaster box of ointment, and she stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet, with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with ointment.
When the Pharise which bade him to his house, saw that, he spake within himself: saying: If this man were a prophet, he would surely have known who and what manner woman this is which toucheth him, for she is a sinner. And Iesus answered, and said unto him: Simon I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he said: Master say on. There was a certain lender, which had two debtors, the one ought five hundred pence, and the other fifty. When they had nothing to pay, he forgave them both. Which of them tell me, will love him most? Simon answered, and said: I suppose that he to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him: Thou hast truly judged.
And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon: Seest thou this woman? I entered into thy house, and thou gavest me no water to my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. Thou gavest me no kiss: but she, since the time I came in, hath not ceased to kiss my feet. Mine head with oil thou didst not anoint: but she hath anointed my feet with ointment. Wherefore I say unto thee: many sins are forgiven her, because she loved much. To whom less is forgiven, the same doeth less love.
And he said unto her thy sins are forgiven thee. And they that sat at meat with him, began to say within themselves: Who is this which forgiveth sins also? And he said to the woman: Thy faith hath saved thee, Go in peace.
The .viij. Chapter.
And it fortuned after that, he himself went throughout cities and towns, preaching, and shewing the kingdom of God, and the twelve with him. And also certain women, which were healed of evil spirits, and infirmities: Mary called Magdalen, out of whom went seven devils, and Ioanna the wife of Chusa, Herod's steward, And Susanna, And many other: which ministered unto him of their substance.
When much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of the cities, he spake by a similitude: A sower went out to sow his seed, and as he sowed, some fell by the way side, and it was trodden under feet, and the fowls of the air devoured it up. And some fell on stone, and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moistness. And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it. And some fell on good ground, and sprang up and bare fruit, an hundred fold. And as he said these things, he cried: He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
And his disciples asked him, saying: what manner similitude this should be. And he said: unto you is it given to know the secrets of the kingdom of God: but to other in similitudes, that when they see, they should not see, and when they hear they should not understand.
The similitude is this. The seed is the word of God. Those that are beside the way, are they that hear, and afterward cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. They on the stones, are they which when they hear the word receive it with joy. And these have no roots, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation go away. That which fell among thorns, are they which hear, and go forth, and are choked with cares and riches, and voluptuous living, and bring forth no fruit. That in the good ground, are they which with a good and pure heart, hear the word, and keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.
No man lighteth a candle, and covereth it under a vessel, neither putteth it under the table: but setteth it on a candlestick, that they that enter in, may see light. No thing is in secret, that shall not come abroad: Neither any thing hid, that shall not be known, and come to light. Take heed therefore how ye hear. For whosoever hath, to him shall be given: And whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken, even that same which he supposeth that he hath.
Then came to him his mother and his brethren, and could not come at him for press. And they told him saying: Thy mother and thy brethren, stand without, and would see thee. He answered, and said unto them: my mother and my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.
It chanced on a certain day that he went into a ship, and his disciples also, and he said unto them: Let us go over unto the other side of the lake. And they launched forth. And as they sailed, he fell asleep, and there arose a storm of wind in the lake, and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy. And they went to him and awoke him, saying: Master, Master, we are lost. He arose and rebuked the wind, and the tempest of water, and they ceased, and it waxed calm. And he said unto them: where is your faith? They feared and wondered, saying one to another: what fellow is this? for he commandeth both the winds and water, and they obey him? And they sailed unto the region of the Gaderens, which is over against Galile.
As he went out of the ship to land, there met him a certain man out of the city, which had a devil long time, and ware no clothes, neither abode in any house: but among graves. When he saw Iesus, he cried, and fell down before him, and with a loud voice said: What have I to do with thee Iesus the son of the God most highest? I beseech thee torment me not. Then he commanded the foul spirit to come out of the man. For often times he caught him, and he was bound with chains, and kept with fetters: and he brake the bonds, and was carried of the fiend, into wilderness.
Iesus asked him saying: what is thy name? And he said: Legion, because many devils were entered into him. And they besought him, that he would not command them to go out into the deep. There was there by an herd of many swine, feeding on an hill, and they prayed him, that he would suffer them to enter into them. And he suffered them. Then went the devils out of the man, and entered into the swine: And the herd took their course, and ran headlong into the lake, and were choked. When the herdsmen saw what had chanced, they fled, and told it in the city and in the villages.
And they came out to see what was done. And came to Iesus, and found the man, out of whom the devils were departed, sitting at the feet of Iesus clothed, and in his right mind, and they were afraid. They also which saw it told them by what means he that was possessed of the devil, was healed. And all the whole multitude of the Gaderens, besought him, that he would depart from them: for they were taken with great fear. And he gat him into the ship and returned back again. Then the man out of whom the devils were departed, besought him, that he might be with him: But Iesus sent him away, saying: Go home again into thine own house, and shew what things God hath done to thee. And he went his way, and preached thorowout all the city what things Iesus had done unto him.
It fortuned that when Iesus was come again, the people received him. For they all longed for him. And behold there came a man named Iairus (and he was a ruler of the synagogue) and he fell down at Iesus' feet, and besought him that he would come into his house, for he had but a daughter only, of twelve year of age, and she lay a dying. As he went the people thronged him.
And a woman having an issue of blood twelve year (which had spent all her substance among Physicians, neither could be helped of any) came behind him, and touched the hem of his garment, and immediately her issue of blood staunched. And Iesus said: Who is it that touched me? when every man denied, Peter and they that were with him, said: Master, the people thrust thee and vex thee: and thou sayest, who touched me? And Iesus said: Somebody touched me. For I perceive that virtue is gone out of me. When the woman saw, that she was not hid from him, she came trembling, and fell at his feet, and told him before all the people, for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately. And he said unto her: Daughter be of good comfort. Thy faith hath made the safe, go in peace.
While he yet spake, there came one from the rulers of the synagogue's house, which said to him: Thy daughter is dead, disease not the master. When Iesus heard that, He answered to the maidens father saying: Fear not, believe only, and she shall be made whole. And when he came to the house, he suffered no man to go in with him, save Peter, Iames and Ihon, and the father and the mother of the maiden. Every body wept and sorrowed for her. And he said Weep not: for she is not dead, but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn. For they knew that she was dead. And he thrust them all out at the doors, and caught her by the hand, and cried saying: Maid arise. And her spirit came again, and she rose straightway. And he commanded to give her meat. And the father and the mother of her were astonied. But he warned that they should tell no man, what was done.
The .ix. Chapter.
Then called he the xij. together, and gave them power, and authority, over all devils. And that they might heal diseases. And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to cure the sick. And he said to them: Take no thing to succor you by the way: neither staff, nor scrip, neither bread neither money, neither have two coats. And whatsoever house ye enter into there abide, and thence depart. And whosoever will not receive you, when ye depart from that city, shake off the very dust from your feet, for a testimony against them. They went forth, and went thorow the towns, preaching the gospel, and healing everywhere.
Herod the tetrarch heard of all that by him was done, and doubted because that it was said of some, that Ihon was risen again from death. And of some that Helias had appeared. And of other that one of the old prophets was risen again. And Herod said: Ihon have I beheaded: who is this of whom I hear such things? And he desired to see him.
And the Apostles returned, and told him all that they had done. And he took them and went aside into a solitary place, nigh to a city called Bethsaida. The people knew of it, and followed him. And he received them, and spake unto them of the kingdom of God. And healed them that had need to be healed. The day began to wear away. Then came the twelve, and said unto him: send the people away, that they may go into the towns, and villages roundabout, and lodge, and get meat, for we are here in a place of wilderness. Then said he unto them: Give ye them to eat. And they said: We have no more but five loaves and two fishes, except we should go and buy meat for all this people. And they were about a five thousand men. He said unto his disciples: Cause them to sit down by fifties in a company. And they did so, and made them all sit down. He took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looked up to heaven, and blessed them, and brake, and gave to his disciples, to set before the people. And they all ate, and were satisfied. And there was taken up of that remained to them, twelve baskets full of broken meat.
It fortuned as he was alone praying, his disciples were with him, and he asked them saying: Who say the people that I am? They answered and said: Ihon baptist. Some say Helias. And some say, one of the old prophets is risen again. He said unto them: Who say ye that I am? Peter answered and said: thou art the Christ of God. He warned and commanded them, that they should tell no man that thing, saying: That the son of man must suffer many things, and be reproved of the seniors, and of the high priests and scribes, and be slain, and the third day rise again.
And he said to them all, if any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take his cross on him daily, and follow me. Whosoever will save his life, shall lose it. And whosoever shall lose his life, for my sake, the same shall save it. For what shall it advantage a man, to win the whole world, if he lose himself: or run in damage of himself? For whosoever is ashamed of me, and of my sayings: of him shall the son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in his own majesty, and in the majesty of his father, and of the holy angels. I tell you of a surety: Some there are of them that here stand, which shall not taste of death till they see the kingdom of God.
And it followed about an viij. days after those sayings, he took Peter, Iames, and Ihon, and went up into a mountain to pray. And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was changed, and his garment was white and shone. And behold, two men talked with him, and they were Moses and Helias, which appeared gloriously, and spake of his departing, which he should end at Ierusalem. Peter and they that were with him, were heavy asleep. And when they woke, they saw his majesty, and two men standing with him.
And it chanced as they departed from him, Peter said unto Iesus: Master, it is good being here for us. Let us make three tabernacles, one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Helias. And wist not what he said. While he thus spake there came a cloud and shadowed them and they feared when they entered into the cloud. And there came a voice out of the cloud saying: This is my dear son, hear him. And as soon as the voice was past, Iesus was found alone. And they kept it close: and told no man in those days any of those things, which they had seen.
It chanced on the next day as they came down from the hill, much people came and met him. And behold a man of the company cried out saying: Master, I beseech thee behold my son, for he is all that I have: and see, a spirit taketh him, and suddenly he crieth, and he teareth him that he foameth again, and uneth departeth he from him, when he hath rent him: And I have besought thy disciples to cast him out, and they could not. Iesus answered, and said: O generation without faith, and crooked: how long shall I be with you? And shall suffer you? Bring thy son hither. As he yet was a coming, the fiend rent him, and tare him. Iesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and healed the child, and delivered him to his father. And they were all amazed at the mighty power of God.
While they wondered every one at all things which he did: He said unto his disciples: Let these sayings sink down into your ears. The time will come, when the son of man shall be delivered into the hands of men. But they wist not what that word meant, and it was hid from them that they understood it not. And they feared to ask him of that saying.
Then there arose a disputation among them, who should be the greatest. When Iesus perceived the thoughts of their hearts, he took a child, and set him hard by him, and said unto them: Whosoever receiveth this child in my name, receiveth me. And whosoever receiveth me, receiveth him that sent me. For he that amongst you, is the least, the same shall be great.
Ihon answered and said: Master we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and we forbade him, because he followeth not with us. And Iesus said unto him: forbid ye him not. For he that is not against you, is with you. {us}
And it followed when the time was come that he should be received up and that he determined himself to go to Ierusalem: and sent messengers before him. And they went, and entered into a city of the Samaritans to make ready for him. And they would not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Ierusalem. When his disciples, Iames, and Ihon, saw that, they said: lord, wilt thou that we command, that fire come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Helias did? Iesus turned about, and rebuked them saying: ye wot not what manner spirit ye are of. The son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them. And they went to another town.
It chanced as he went on their journey, a certain man said unto him: I will follow thee whithersoever thou go. Iesus said unto him: foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests: but the son of man hath not whereon to lay his head.
And he said unto another: follow me. And the same said: lord suffer me first to go and bury my father. Iesus said unto him. Let the dead, bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.
And another said: I will follow thee lord: But let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. Iesus said unto him: No man that putteth his hand to the plough, and looketh back, is apt to the kingdom of God.
The .x. Chapter.
After that, the lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them, two and two, before his face, into every city, and place, whither he himself would come. And said unto them: the harvest is great: but the laborers are few. Pray therefore the lord of the harvest, to send forth laborers into his harvest. Go your ways. Behold, I send you forth as lambs among wolves. Bear no wallet, neither scrip, nor shoes, and salute no man by the way. In whatsoever house ye enter in, first say: Peace be to this house. And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest upon him, if not, it shall return to you again. And in the same house tarry still eating and drinking, such as they have. For the laborer is worthy of his reward.
Go not from house to house: and into whatsoever city ye enter, if they receive you, eat whatsoever is set before you, and heal the sick that are there, and say unto them: the kingdom of God is come nigh upon you. But into whatsoever city ye shall enter, if they receive you not, go your ways out into the streets of the same, and say: even the very dust, which cleaveth on us of your city, we wipe off against you: Notwithstanding, mark this, that the kingdom of God was come nigh upon you. Yea and I say unto you: that it shall be easier in that day, for Sodom than for that city.
Woe be to thee Chorazin: woe be to thee Bethsaida. For if the miracles had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great while agone repented, sitting in hair and ashes. Nevertheless it shall be easier for Tyre and Sidon, at the judgement, than for you. And thou Capernaum which art exalted to heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell. whosoever heareth you, heareth me: And whosoever despiseth you, despiseth me. And he that despiseth me, despiseth him that sent me.
The seventy returned again with joy saying: lord even the very devils are subdued to us thorow thy name. And he said unto them: I saw sathan, as it had been lightning, fall down from heaven. Behold I give unto you power to tread on serpents, and scorpions, and upon all manner power of the enemy, and nothing shall hurt you. Nevertheless, in this rejoice not, that the spirits are under your power: But rejoice because your names are written in heaven.
That same time rejoiced Iesus in the spirit, and said: I praise {confess} thee father lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast opened them to the foolish. Even so father, for so pleased it thee. All things are given me of my father. And no man knoweth who the son is, but the father: neither who the father is, save the son, and he to whom the son will shew him.
And he turned to his disciples, and said secretly: Happy are the eyes, which see that ye see. For I tell you that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them: And to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them:
And mark, A Certain Lawyer stood up, and tempted him saying: Master what shall I do, to inherit eternal life? He said unto him: What is written in the law? How readest thou? And he answered and said: Thou shalt love thy lord God, with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind: and thy neighbor as thyself. And he said unto him: Thou hast answered right. This do and thou shalt live. He willing to justify himself, said unto Iesus: Who is then my neighbor?
Iesus answered and said: A certain man descended from Ierusalem into Ierico, And fell into the hands of thieves, which robbed him of his raiment and wounded him, and departed leaving him half dead. And it chance that there came a certain priest that same way, and saw him, and passed by. And like wise a levite, when he was come nigh to the place, went and looked on him, and passed by. Then a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came nigh unto him, and beheld him, and had compassion on him, and came to hime, and bound up his wounds, and poured in wine, and oil, and laid him on his beast, and brought him to a common hostry, and drest him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host and said unto him: Take care of him, and whatsoever thou spendest above this, when I come again I will recompense thee. Which now of these three, thinkest thou was neighbor unto him that fell into the thieves hands? And he answered: he that shewed mercy on him. Then said Iesus unto him. Go and do thou likewise.
It fortuned as they went, that he entered into a certain town. And a certain woman named Martha, received him into her house. And this woman had a sister called Mary, which sat at Iesus' feet, and heard Iesus preaching: Martha was cumbered about much serving, and stood and said: Master, dost thou not care, that my sister hath left me to minister alone? Bid her therefore, that she help me. And Iesus answered, and said unto her: Martha, Martha, thou art busied, and troublest thyself, about many things: verily one is needful, Mary hath chosen her a good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
The .xj. Chapter.
And it fortuned as he was praying in a certain place: when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him: Master teach us to pray, As Ihon taught his disciples. And he said unto them: When ye pray, say: Our father which art in heaven, hallowed by thy name. Let thy kingdom come. Thy will, be fulfilled, even in earth as it is in heaven. Our daily bread give us this day. And forgive us our sins: For even we forgive every man that trespasseth us, and lead us not into temptation, But deliver us from evil Amen.
And he said unto them: which of you shall have a friend and shall go to him at midnight, and say unto him: friend lend me four loaves for a friend of mine is come out of the way to me, and I have nothing to set before him: And he within should answer and say: Trouble me not, now is the door is shut, and my servants are with me in the chamber, I cannot rise and give them to thee. I say unto you: though he would not arise and give him, because he is his friend: Yet because of his importunity he would rise and give him as many as he needeth.
And I say unto you: ask, and it shall be given you. Seek, and ye shall find. Knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh, receiveth: and he that seeketh, findeth: and to him that knocketh shall it be opened. If the son shall ask bread of any of you which is his father: will he proffer him a stone? Or if he ask fish, will he give him a serpent? Or if he ask an egg: will he proffer him a scorpion? If ye then which are evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children? How much more shall your father celestial, give a good spirit to them, that desire it of him.
And he was a casting out a devil, which was dumb. And it followed when the devil was gone out, the dumb spake, and the people wondered. Some of them said: he casteth out devils by the power of Belzebub, the chief of the devils. And other tempted him seeking of him a sign from heaven. He knew their thoughts, and said unto them: Every kingdom, at debate within itself shall be desolate: and one house shall fall upon another. So if Satan be at variance within himself: how shall his kingdom endure? Be cause ye say that I cast out devils by the power of Belzebub? If I by the power of Belzebub cast out devils: by whose power, do your children cast them out? Therefore shall they be your judges. But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt, the kingdom of God is come upon you.
When a strong man armed watcheth his house: That he possesseth, is in peace. But when a stronger than he cometh upon him, and overcometh him: he taketh from him, his harness, wherein he trusted, and divideth his goods. He that is not with me is against me. And he that gathereth not with me scattereth.
When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through waterless places seeking rest. And when he findeth none, he sayeth: I will return again unto my house whence I came out. And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished. Then goeth he and taketh seven other spirits with him worse than himself, and they enter in, and dwell there. And the end of that man, is worse than the beginning.
It fortuned as he thus spake, a certain woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him: Happy is the womb that bare thee and the paps, which gave thee suck. But he said: Happy are they that hear the word of God, and keep it.
When the people were gathered thick together: He began to say: This is an evil nation. They seek a sign, and there shall no sign be given them, but the sign of Ionas the prophet. For as Ionas was a sign to the Ninivites, so shall the son of man be to this nation. The queen of the south shall rise at the judgement, with the men of this generation, and condemn them. For she came from the end of the world, to hear the wisdom of Salomon: and behold a greater than Salomon is here. The men of Nineveh shall rise at the judgement, with this generation, and shall condemn them: for they repented at the preaching of Ionas: And behold, a greater than Ionas is here.
No man lighteth a candle, and putteth it in a privy place, neither under a bushel: But on a candlestick, that they that come in, may see the light. The light of thy body is the eye. Therefore, when thine eye is single: then is all thy body full of light. But if thine eye be evil: then shall all thy body also be full of darkness. Take heed therefore that the light which is in thee, be not darkness. For if all thy body shall be light, having no part dark: then shall all be full of light, even as when a candle doeth light thee with his brightness.
And as he spake, a certain Pharisee besought him to dine with him: and Iesus went in, and sat down to meat. When the Pharisee saw that he marvelled that he had not first washed before dinner. And the lord said to him: Now do ye, O pharisees, make clean the outside of the cup, and of the platter: but your inward parts are full of ravening and wickedness. Ye fools did not he that made that which is without: make that which is within also? Nevertheless ye give of that ye have, and behold all is clean to you.
But woe be to you pharisees, for ye tithe the mint, and rue, and all manner herbs, and pass over judgement, and the love of God. These ought ye to have done, and not to have left the other undone.
Woe be to you pharisees: for ye love the uppermost seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets.
Woe be to you scribes and pharisees hypocrites, for ye are as graves which appear not, And men that walk over them, are not ware of them.
Then answered one of the lawyers, and said unto him: Master, thus saying, thou puttest us to rebuke also. Then he said: Woe be to you also ye lawyers: for ye lade men with burdens grievous to be born, and ye yourselves touch not the packs with one of your fingers.
Woe be to you that build the sepulchers of the prophets: for your fathers killed them: Truly ye bear witness, that ye allow the deeds of your fathers: for they killed them, and ye build their sepulchers.
Therefore said the wisdom of God: I will send them prophets and Apostles, and of them they shall slay and persecute: That the blood of all prophets, which was shed from the beginning of the world, may be required of this generation, from the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacary, which perished between the altar and the temple. Verily I say unto you: it shall be required of this nation.
Woe be to you lawyers: for ye have taken away the key of knowledge, ye entered not in yourselves, and them that came in ye forbade.
When he thus spake unto them, the lawyers, and the pharisees, began to wax busy about him and to stop his mought with many questions, Laying wait for him, and seeking to catch something of his mouth, whereby they might accuse him.
The .xij. Chapter.
As there gathered to gether an innumerable multitude of people (insomuch that they trod one another) he began to say unto his disciples: First of all beware of the leaven of the pharisees, which is hypocrisy. For there is nothing covered, that shall not be uncovered: neither hid, that shall not be known. Wherefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness: that same shall be heard in light. And that which ye have spoken in the ear, even in secret places, shall be preached even on the top of the houses.
I say unto you my friends: fear ye not them that kill the body, and after that have nothing that he can more do. I will shew you, whom ye shall fear. Fear him which after he hath killed, hath power to cast into hell. Yea I say unto you, him fear. Are not five sparrows bought for two farthings? and none of them is forgotten of God. Yea the very hairs of your heads are numbered. Fear not therefore: Ye are more of value, than many sparrows.
I say unto you: Whosoever confesseth me before men, even him shall the son of man confess also before the angels of God. And he that denieth me before men: shall be denied before the angels of God. And whosoever speaketh a word against the son of man it shall be forgiven him. But unto him that blasphemeth the holy ghost, it shall not be forgiven.
When they bring you unto their synagogues, and unto their rulers, and officers, take no thought how or what thing ye shall answer, or what ye shall speak. For the holy ghost shall teach you in the same hour, what ye ought to say.
One of the company said unto him: Master, bid my brother divide the inheritance with me. And he said unto him: Man, who made me a judge, or a divider over you? Wherefore he said unto them: take heed, and beware of covetousness. For no man's life standeth in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. And he put forth a similitude unto them saying: The lands of a certain man brought forth fruits plenteously, and he thought in himself saying: what shall I do? because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? And he said: This will I do. I will destroy my barns, and build greater, and therein will I gather all my fruits, and my goods: and I will say to my soul: Soul thou hast much goods laid up in store for many years, take thine ease: eat, drink and be merry. But God said unto him: Thou fool, this night will they fetch away thy soul again from thee. Then whose shall those things be which thou hast provided? So is it with him that gathered riches, and is not rich in God.
And he spake unto his disciples: Therefore I say unto you: Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat: Neither for your body, what ye shall put on. The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment. Mark well the ravens, for they neither sow, nor reap, which neither have storehouse nor barn, and yet God feedeth them. How much are ye better then the fowls.
Which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit? If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least: why take ye thought for the remnant? Consider the lilies how they grow: They labor not: They spin not: and I say unto you, Salomon in all his royalty was not clothed like unto one of these.
If God then so clothe the grass which is to day in the fields, and tomorrow shall be cast into the furnace: how much more will he clothe you, o ye endued with little faith? And ask not what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither climb ye up on high: for all such things the heathen people of the world seek for. Your father knoweth that ye have need of such things. Wherefore seek ye after the kingdom of heaven, and all these things shall be ministered unto you.
Fear not little flock, for it is your father's pleasure, to give you a kingdom. Sell that ye have, and give alms. And make you bags, which wax not old, and treasure that faileth not in heaven, where no thief cometh, neither moth corrupteth. For where your treasure is, There will your hearts be also.
Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning, and ye yourselves, like unto men, that watch for their master when he will return from a wedding: that as soon as he cometh and knocketh, they may open unto him. Happy are those servants, which their lord, when he cometh, shall find walking, Verily I say unto you, he will gird himself about, and make them sit down to meat, and walk by them, and minister unto them. And if he come in the second watch, ye if he come in the third watch, and shall find them so, happy are those servants.
This shall ye understand, that if the good man of the house, had known what hour the thief would have come, he would surely have watched: and not have suffered his house to have been broken up. Be ye prepared therefore for the son of man will come at an hour when ye think, not.
Then Peter said unto him: Master tellest thou this similitude unto us, or to all men? And the lord said: who is a faithful steward, and a discreet, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to give them their duetie of meat, at due season. Happy is that servant, whom his master when he cometh shall find so doing. Of a truth I say unto you: that he will make him ruler over all that he hath. But and if the evil servant shall say in his heart: My master will defer his coming, and shall begin to smite the servants, and maidens, and to eat and drink, and to be drunken: the lord of that servant will come in a day, when he thinketh not, and at an hour when he is not ware, and will divide him, and will give him his reward, with the unbelievers.
The servant that knew his master's will, and prepared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes. But he that knew not, and hath committed things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whom much is given: of him shall be much required. And to whom men much commit, the more of him will they ask.
I am come to send fire on earth: and what is my desire but that it were al ready kindled? Notwithstanding I must be baptised with a baptism. And how am I pained till it be ended? Suppose ye that I am come to send peace on earth? I tell you, nay: but rather debate. For henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three. The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father. The mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother. The motherinlaw against the daughterinlaw, and the daughter in law against the motherinlaw. Then said he to the people: when ye see a cloud rise out of the west straightway ye say: we shall have a shower, and so it is. And when ye se the south wind blow, ye say: we shall have heat, and it cometh to pass. Hypocrites, ye can skill of the fashion of the earth, and of the sky: but what is the cause, that ye cannot skill of this time? Yea and why judge ye not of yourselves, that which is rightwise?
While thou goest with thine adversary to the ruler: as thou art in the way, give diligence that thou mayest be delivered from him, least he bring thee to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the jailer, and the jailer cast thee into prison. I tell thee thou departest not thence, till thou have made good the utmost farthing.
The .xiij. Chapter.
There were present at the same season, that shewed him of the Galileans, whose blood Pilate mingled with their own sacrifice. And Iesus answered, and said unto them: Suppose ye that these Galileans, were greater sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered such punishment? I tell you nay: but except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. Or think ye that those xviij. upon whom the tower in Siloe fell and slew them, were sinners above all men that dwell in Ierusalem? I tell you nay: But except ye repent, ye all shall likewise perish.
He put forth this similitude, A certain man had a fig tree in his vineyard, and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. Then said he to the dresser of his vineyard: Behold this three year have I come and sought fruit in this fig tree, and find none, cut it down: why cumbereth it the ground? And he answered and said unto him: lord let it alone this year also, till I dig round about it, and dung it, to see whether it will bear fruit: if not, then after that, cut it down.
He taught in one of their synagogues on the saboth days. And behold there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity xviij. years: and was bowed together, and could not well lift up herself. When Iesus saw her, he called her to him, and said to her: woman, thou art delivered from thy disease. And he laid his hands on her, and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God. The ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation (because that Iesus had healed on the saboth day) And said unto the people: There are six days in the week, in which men ought to work, in them come and be healed, and not on the saboth day.
Then answered him the lord and said: Hypocrite, doth not each one of you on the saboth day, loose his ox, or his ass, from the stall, and lead him to the water? And ought not this daughter of Abraham, be loosed from this bond on the saboth day, whom Sathan hath bounde lo, xviij. years?
And when he thus said, all his adversaries were ashamed, and all the people rejoiced on all the excellent deeds, that were done by him.
Then said he: What is the kingdom of God like? or whereto shall I compare it? It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took and sowed in his garden: and it grew, and waxed a great tree, and the fowls of the air built in the branches of it.
And again he said: whereunto shall I liken the kingdom of , God? It is like leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three bushels of flour, till all was thorow leavened. And he went thorow cities and towns teaching, and took his journey towards Ierusalem.
Then said one unto him: lord, are there few that shall be saved? And he said unto them: strive with your selves to enter in at the strait gate: For many I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When the goodman of the house is risen up, and hath shut fast the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door saying: lord, lord, open unto us: and he shall answer and say unto you: I know not whence ye are. Then shall ye begin to say: We have eaten, and drunk in thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets. And he shall say: I tell you, I know you not whence ye are: depart from me all ye workers of iniquity. There shall be weeping, and gnashing of teeth: when ye shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Iacob, and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, and yourselves thrust out a doors. And they shall come from the east, and from the west, and from the north, and from the south, and shall rest in the kingdom of God. And behold, there are last, which shall be first: And there are first which shall be last.
The same day there came certain of the pharisees, and said unto him: Get thee out of the way, and depart hence: for Herod will kill thee. And he said unto them: Go ye and tell that fox, behold I cast out devils, and heal the people to day and tomorrow, and the third day I make an end. Nevertheless, I must walk today and tomorrow, and the day following: For it cannot be, that a prophet perish any other where, save at Ierusalem. O Ierusalem, Ierusalem, which killest prophets, and stonest them that are sent to thee: how often would I have gathered thy children together, as the hen her nest under her wings, but thou wouldest not. Behold your habitation shall be left unto you desolate. For I tell you, ye shall not see me until the time come that ye shall say, blessed is he that cometh in the name of the lord.
The .xiiij. Chapter.
And it chanced that he went into the house of one of the chief pharisees to eat bread, on a saboth day: and they watched him. And behold there was a man before him, which had the dropsy. And Iesus answered and spake unto the lawyers and pharisees, saying: is it lawful to heal on the saboth day? And they held their peace. He took the man and healed him, and let him go: And answered them saying: which of you shall have an ass, or an ox, fallen into a pit, and will not straightway pull him out on the saboth day? And they could not answer him again to that.
He put forth a similitude to the guests, when he marked how they pressed to the highest rooms, and said unto them: When thou art bidden to a wedding of any man, sit not down in the highest room, lest a more honorable man than thou be bidden of him, and he that bade both him and thee, come and say to thee: give this man room. And thou then begin with shame to take the lowest room. But rather when thou art bidden, go and sit in the lowest room, that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto thee: friend sit up higher. Then shalt thou have praise in the presence of them that sit at meat with thee. For whosoever exalteth himself, shall be brought low. And he that humbleth himself, shall be exalted.
Then said he also to him that had desired to him to dinner: When thou makest a dinner, or a supper: call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor yet rich neighbours: lest they bid thee again, and make thee recompense. But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, and the blind, and thou shalt be happy: For they cannot recompense thee. But thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just men.
When one of them that sat at meat also heard that, he said unto him: happy is he that eateth bread in the kingdom of God. Then said he to him: A certain man ordained a great supper, and bade many, and sent his servant at supper time, to say to them that were bidden, come: for all things are now ready. And they all at once began to make excuse. The first said unto him: I have bought a farm, and I must needs go and see it, I pray thee have me excused. And another said: I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I must go to prove them, I pray thee have me excused. The third said: I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come. And the servant went again, and brought his master word thereof.
Then was the good man of the house displeased, and said to his servant: Go out quickly into the streets and quarters of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind. And the servant said: lord it is done as thou commandedst, and yet there is room. And the lord said to the servant: Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. For I say unto you, that none of those men which were bidden, shall taste of my supper.
There went a great company with him, and he turned and said unto them: If a man come to me, and hate not his father and mother, and wife, and children, and brethren, and sisters, moreover and his own life, he cannot be my disciple. And whosoever bear not his cross, and come after me cannot be my disciple.
Which of you is he that is disposed to build a tower, and sitteth not down before and counteth the cost: Whether he have sufficient to perform it? lest after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to perform it, all that behold it, begin to mock him saying: This man began to build, and was not able to make an end. What king goeth to make battle against another king, and sitteth not down first, and casteth in his mind, whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand, or else while the other is yet a great way off, he will send ambassadors, and desire peace. So likewise, none of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, can be my disciple.
Salt is good, but if salt be corrupt, what shall be seasoned therewith? It is neither good for the land, nor yet for the dunghill, men cast it out at the doors. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
The .xv. Chapter.
Then resorted unto him all the publicans and sinners, for to hear him. And the pharisees, and scribes grudged saying: He received to his company sinners, and eateth with them. Then put he forth this similitude to them saying: What man of you having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them doth not leave ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go after him which is lost, until he find him? And when he hath found him, he putteth him on his shoulders with joy: And as soon as he cometh home he calleth together his lovers, and neighbours saying unto them: rejoice with me for I have found my sheep which was lost. I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance. Other what woman having x. grotes, if she lose one, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently, till she find it? And when she hath found it she calleth her lovers, and her neighbours saying: Rejoice with me, for I have found the grote which I had lost. Likewise I say unto you, joy shall be in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.
And he said: a certain man had two sons, and the younger of them said to his father: father give me my part of the goods that to me belongeth. And he divided unto them his substance. And not long after, the younger son gathered all that he had together, and took his journey into a far country, and there he wasted his goods with riotous living. And when he had spent all that he had, there rose a great dearth thorowout all that same land. And he began to lack. And he went, and clave to a citizen of that same country, which sent him to his field, to keep his swine. And he would fain have filled his belly with the cods, that the swine ate: and no man gave him.
Then he came to himself and said: how many hired servants at my father's have bread enough, and I die for hunger. I will arise, and go to my father, and will say unto him: father, I have sinned against heaven and before thee, now am I not worthy to be called thy son, make me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose, and came to his father. When he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran unto him, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. And the son said unto him: father I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, neither am I worthy henceforth to be called thy son. Then said the father to his servants: bring forth that best garment, and put it on him, and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. And bring hither that fatted calf, and kill him, and let us eat and be merry: for this my son was dead, and is alive again. He was lost, and is now found. And they began to make good chear.
The elder brother was in the field, and when he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard minstrelsy, and dancing, and called one of his servants, and asked what those things meant. He said unto him: thy brother is come, and thy father had killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound. And he was angry, and would not go in. Then came his father out, and entreated him, he answered and said to his father: Lo these many years have I done thee service, neither brake at any time thy commandment, and yet gavest thou me never so much as a kid to make merry with my lovers: but as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy goods with harlots, thou hast for his pleasure killed the fatted calf. And he said unto him: Son, thou wast ever with me, and all that I have is thine: it was meet that we should make merry and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again: and was lost, and is found.
The .xvj. Chapter.
He said also unto his disciples. There was a certain rich man, which had a steward, that was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods. And he called him, and said unto him: How is it, that I hear this of thee? Give accounts of thy stewardship. For thou mayest be no longer my steward. The steward said within himself: what shall I do? for my master will take away from me the stewardship. I cannot dig, and to beg, I am ashamed. I wot what to do, that when I am put out of my stewardship, they may receive me into their houses.
Then called he all his master's debtors, and said unto the first: how much owest thou unto my master? And he said: an hundred tuns of oil, and he said to him: take thy bill, and sit down quickly, and write fifty. Then said he to another: what owest thou? And he said: an hundred quarters of wheat. He said to him: Take thy bill, and write fourscore. And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely. For the children of this world, are in their kind, wiser than the children of light. And I say also unto you: make you friends of the wicked mammon, that when ye shall have need they may receive you into everlasting habitations.
He that is faithful in that which is least: the same is faithful in much. [And he that is unfaithful in the least: is unfaithful also in much.] So then if ye have not been faithful in the wicked mammon? who will believe you in that which is true? and if ye have not been faithful in another man's business: who shall give you your own? No servant can serve two masters, for either he shall hate the one and love the other, or else he shall lean to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God, and mammon.
All these things heard the pharisees also which were covetous. And they mocked him, and he said unto them: Ye are they, which justify yourselves before men: but God knoweth your hearts. For that which men magnify, is abominable in the sight of God.
The law, and the prophets reigned until the time of Ihon: Since that time, the kingdom of God is preached, and every man striveth to go in.
Sooner shall heaven and earth perish, than one tittle of the law shall perish. Whosoever forsaketh his wife, and marrieth another, breaketh matrimony. And every man which marrieth her that is divorced from her husband committeth advoutry also.
There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple, and fine rayons, and fared deliciously every day. And there was a certain beggar, named Lazarus, which lay at his gate full of sores desiring to be refreshed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's board. Nevertheless, the dogs came, and licked his sores. And it fortuned that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: The rich man also died, and was buried in hell.
When he lift up his eyes, as he was in torments, and he saw Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom, And cried and said: father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue, for I am tormented in this flame. Abraham said unto him: Son remember, that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy pleasure, and contrariwise Lazarus pain. Now therefore is he comforted, and thou art punished. Beyond all this between you and us there is a great space set, so that they which would go from hence to you, cannot: neither from thence come hither.
And he said: I pray thee therefore father, send him to my father's house. For I have five brethren: for to warn them, lest they also come into this place of torment. Abraham said unto him: they have Moses and the prophets, let them hear them. And he said: nay father Abraham, but if one from the dead came unto them they would repent. He said unto him: If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they believe, though one rose from death again.
The .xvij. Chapter.
Then said he to his disciples, it cannot be avoided, but that occasions of evil come. Nevertheless woe be to him thorow whom they come. It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were cast into the sea, rather than he should offend one of these little ones. Take heed to your selves, if thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him: and if he repent, forgive him. And though he sin against thee seven times in one day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee saying: it repenteth me, forgive him.
And the Apostles said unto the lord: increase our faith. The lord said: if ye had faith like a grain of mustard seed, and should say unto this sycamine tree, pluck thyself up by the roots, and plant thyself in the sea: he should obey you.
Which of you having a servant a plowing, or feeding cattle, would say unto him when he were come from the field: Go quickly and sit down to meat. And rather sayeth not to him, dress wherewith I may sup, and appoint thyself and serve me, till I have eaten and drunk: and afterward, eat thou, and drink thou? Doeth he thank that servant because he did that which was commanded unto him? I trow not. So likewise ye, when ye have done all those things which are commanded unto you: say, we are unprofitable servants. We have done that which was our duty to do.
And it chanced as he went to Ierusalem, that he passed thorow Samaria and Galile. And as he entered into a certain town, there met him ten men, that were lepers, which stood afar off, and put forth their voices, and said: Iesu master, have mercy on us. When he saw them, he said unto them: Go and shew yourselves to the priests. And it chanced as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was cleansed, turned back again, and with a loud voice praised God, and fell down on his face at his feet, and gave him thanks. And the same was a Samaritan. Iesus answered and said: Are there not ten cleansed? But where are those nine? There are not found that returned again, to give God praise, save only this stranger. And he said unto him: Arise, and go thy way, thy faith hath saved thee.
When he was demanded of the pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come: he answered them and said: The kingdom of God cometh not with waiting for. Neither shall men say, Lo here, lo there. For behold, the kingdom of God is within you.
And he said unto the disciples: The days will come, when ye shall desire to see one day of the son of man, and ye shall not see it. And they shall say to you: See here, See there. Go not after them, nor follow them, for as the lightning that appeareth out of the one part of the heaven, and shineth unto the other part of heaven. So shall the son of man be in his days. But first must he suffer many things, and be reproved of this nation.
As it happened in the time of Noe So shall it be in the time of the son of man. They ate, they drank, they married wives and were married even unto the same day that Noe went into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. Likewise also, as it chanced in the days of Lot. They ate, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they built. And even the same day that Lot went out of Zodom, it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. After these ensamples, shall the day be, when the son of man shall appear. At that day he that is on the house top, and his stuff in the house: let him not come down to take it out. And likewise let not him that is in the fields, turn back again to that he left behind. Remember Lot's wife. Whosoever will go about to save his life, shall lose it: And whosoever shall lose his life, shall quicken it.
I tell you: In that night, there shall be two in one bed, the one shall be received, and the other shall be forsaken. Two shall be also a grinding together: the one shall be received, and the other forsaken. And they answered, and said to him: where lord? And he said unto them: wheresoever The body shall be, thither will the eagles resort.
The .xviij. Chapter.
He put forth a similitude unto them, signifying that men ought always to pray, and not to be weary, saying: There was a Judge in a certain city, which feared not God neither regarded man. And there was a certain widow in the same city, which came unto him saying: Avenge me of mine adversary. And a great while he would not. Afterward he said unto himself: Though I fear not God, nor care for man, yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest at the last she come, and rail on me.
And the lord said: hear what the unrighteous judge sayeth. And shall not God avenge his elect, which cry night and day unto him? Yea though he defer them: I tell you, he will avenge them, and that quickly. Nevertheless, when the son of man cometh, suppose ye, that he shall find faith on earth.
And he put forth this similitude, unto certain which trusted in themselves, that they were perfect, and despised other. Two men went up into the temple to pray: the one a pharisee, and the other a publican. The pharise stood and prayed thus with himself. God I thank thee that I am not as other are, extortioners, unjust, advoutrers, and even as the publican is. I fast twice in the week. I give tithe of all that I possess. And the publican stood afar off, and would not lift up his eyes to heaven, but smote his breast, saying: God be mercyfull to me a sinner. I tell you: this man departed home to his house justified more than the other. For every man that exalteth himself, shall be brought low: And he that humbleth himself, shall be exalted.
They brought unto him also babes, that he should touch them. When his disciples saw that, they rebuked them. But Iesus called them unto him, and said: Suffer children to come unto me, and forbid them not. For unto such, belongeth the kingdom of God. Verily I say unto you: whosoever receiveth not the kingdom of God, as a child: he shall not enter therein.
And a certain ruler asked him: saying: Good Master: what ought I to do, to obtain eternal life? Iesus said unto him: Why callest thou me good? No man is good, save God only. Thou knowest the commandments: Thou shalt not commit advoutry, thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father, and thy mother. And he said: All these have I kept from my youth. When Iesus heard that, he said unto him: Yet lackest thou one thing. Sell all that thou hast, and distribute it unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven, and come, and follow me. When he heard that, he was heavy, for he was rich.
When Iesus saw him mourn, he said: with what difficulty shall they that have riches, enter into the kingdom of God: Easier it is for a camel to pass thorow a needles eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. Then said they that heard that: And who shall then be saved? He said: Things which are unpossible with men: are possible with God.
Then Peter said: Lo we have forsaken all, and have followed thee. He said unto them: Verily I say unto you, there is no man that forsaketh house, other father and mother, other brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, which same shall not receive much more in this world: and in the world to come, life everlasting.
He took unto him twelve, and said unto them: Lo we go up to Ierusalem, and all shall be fulfilled that are written by the prophets of the son of man. He shall be delivered unto the gentiles, and shall be mocked, and shall be despitefully entreated, and shall be spitted on: and when they have scourged him, they will put him to death, and the third day, shall he arise again. They understood none of these things. And this saying was hid from them. And they perceived not the things which were spoken.
It came to pass, as they were come nigh unto Iericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging. And when he heard the people pass by, he asked what it meant. They said unto him that Iesus of Nazareth, went by. And he cried, saying: Iesus the son of David, have mercy on me. And they which went before rebuked him, because he should hold his peace. And he much the more cried, The son of David, have mercy on me. Iesus stood still, and commanded him, to be brought unto him. And when he was come near, he asked him saying: What wilt thou, that I do unto thee? And he said: lord, that I may receive my sight. Iesus said unto him: Receive thy sight: Thy faith hath saved thee. And immediately he saw, and followed him, praising God. And all the people, when they saw it, gave laud to God.
The .xix. Chapter.
And he entered in, and went thorow Iericho. And behold, there was a man named Zacheus, which was a ruler among the publicans, and rich also. And he made means to see Iesus, what he should be: and he could not for the press, because he was of a low stature. And he ran before, and ascended up, into a sycomore tree, to see him. For he would come that same way. And when Iesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him: Zache, come down at once, for today I must abide at thy house. And hastily he came down, and received him joyfully. And when they saw that, they all grudged saying: He is gone, into tarry with a man that is a sinner.
Zache stood forth and said unto the lord: Behold lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor, and if I have done any man wrong, I will restore him four fold. Iesus said to him: This day is health come unto this house, forasmuch as it also is become the child of Abraham. For the son of man is come to seek, and to save that which was lost.
As they heard these things, he added thereto a similitude, because he was nigh to Ierusalem, And because also, they thought that the kingdom of God should shortly appear. He said therefore: A certain noble man, went into a far country, to receive a kingdom, and then to come again. He called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds saying unto them: Buy and sell till I come: But his citizens hated him, and sent messengers after him, saying: We will not have this man to reign over us.
And it came to pass, when he was come again and had received his kingdom, he commanded his servants, to be called to him (to whom he gave his money) to wit what every man had done. Then came the first saying: lord, thy pound hath increased ten pounds. And he said unto him: Well good servant, because thou wast faithful in a very little thing, Take thou authority over ten cities. And the other came saying: lord thy pound, hath increased five pounds. And to the same he said: And be thou also ruler over five cities. And the third came, and said: lord, behold here thy pound, which I have kept in a napkin, for I feared thee, because thou art a strait man: thou takest up that thou laidst not down, And reapest that thou didst not sow. And he said unto him: Of thine own mouth judge I thee thou evil servant. Knewest thou that I am a strait man, taking up that I laid not down, and reaping that I did not sow? Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank? And then at my coming should I have required mine own, with vantage. And he said to them that stood by: Take from him that pound, and give it him that hath ten pounds. And they said unto him: lord he hath ten pounds. I say unto you, that unto all them that have, it shall be given: and from him that hath not, even that he hath shall be taken away. Moreover those mine enemies, which would not, that should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me. And when he had thus spoken, he proceeded forth before them, and went up to Ierusalem.
And it fortuned, when he was come nigh to Bethphage and Bethany, besides mount Olivete, he sent two of his disciples saying: Go ye in to the town which is over against you. In the which as soon as ye are come, ye shall find a colt tied, whereon, yet never man sat. Loose him and bring him hither. And if any man ask you, why that ye loose him: thus say unto him, The lord hath need of him.
They that were sent went their way, and found, even as he had said unto them. And as they were a loosing the colt, the owners said unto them: why loose ye the colt? And they said: for the lord hath need of him. And they brought him to Iesus. And they cast their raiment on the colt, and set Iesus thereon. And as he went they spread their clothes in the way.
When he was come where he should go down from the mount Olivete, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice, and to laud God with a loud voice, for all the miracles that they had seen, saying: Blessed be the king that cometh in the name of the lord: Peace in heaven, and glory in the highest. And some of the pharisees of the company, said unto him: Master rebuke thy disciples. He answered, and said unto them: I tell you, if these hold their peace, the stones will cry.
And when he was come near, he beheld the city, and wept on it saying: If thou hadst known those things which belong unto thy peace, even at this day? But now are they hid from thine eyes. For the days shall come upon thee, And thine enemies shall compass thee about with a bank. And shall besiege thee round about, and keep thee in on every side, And make thee even with the ground, with thy children which are in thee. And they shall not leave in thee one stone upon another, because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation.
And he went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold therein, and them that bought saying unto them, It is written, my house is the house of prayer: But ye have made it a den of thieves. And he taught daily in the temple. The high priests and the scribes and the chief of the people, went about to destroy him: But could not find what to do. For all the people stuck by him. And gave him audience.
The .xx. Chapter.
And it fortuned in one of those days, As he taught the people in the temple, And preached the gospel. The high priests and the scribes came unto him with the seniors, And spake unto him, saying: Tell us by what authority thou doest these things? Other who is he that gave thee this authority? He answered and said unto them: I also will ask you a question, and answer me: was the baptism of Ihon, from heaven, or of men? They thought within themselves saying: If we shall say from heaven: he will say: Why then believed ye him not? But and if we shall say of men, all the people will stone us. For they surely believe that Ihon was a prophet. And they answered that they could not tell whence it was. And Iesus said unto them: Neither tell I you by what authority I do these things.
Then began he to put forth to the people, this similitude: A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to farmers, and went himself into a strange country for a great season. And when the time came, he sent a servant to his tenants that they should give him of the fruits, of the vineyard. The tenants beat him: and sent him away empty. And he ceased not thereby but sent yet another servant. And they beat him, and foul entreated him also, and sent him away empty. Moreover, he sent the third Also, And him they wounded, and cast him out. Then said the lord of the vineyard: what shall I do? I will send my dear son, him peradventure they will reverence, when they see him.
When the farmers saw him, they thought in themselves, saying: this is the heir, come let us kill him, that the inheritance may be ours. And they cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him. Now what shall the lord of the vineyard do unto them? He will come and destroy those farmers, and will let out his vineyard to other. When they heard that, they said: God forbid.
He beheld them and said: what meaneth this then that is written: The stone that the builders refused, is made the head cornerstone? whosoever stumble at that stone, shall be bruised: but on whosoever it fall, it will also break him. And the high priests and the scribes, the same hour went about to lay hands on him, but they feared the people. For they perceived that he had spoken this similitude against them.
And they watched him, and sent forth spies, which should feign themselves perfect, to take him in his words, and to deliver him unto the power, and authority of the president. And they asked him saying: Master, we know that thou sayest, and teachest right, neither considerest thou any man's degree, but teachest the way of God truly. Is it lawful for us to give Cesar tribute, or no? He perceived their craftiness, and said unto them: Why tempt ye me? Shew me a penny. Whose image and superscription hath it? They answered and said: Cesar's. And he said unto them: Give then unto Cesar, that which belongeth unto Cesar: And to God, that which pertaineth to God. And they could not reprove his saying before the people. And they marvelled at his answer, and held their peace.
Then came to him certain of the Sadduces which deny that there is any resurrection. And they asked him saying: Master Moses wrote unto us, if any man's brother die having a wife, And the same die without issue: that then his brother should take his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother. There were seven brethren, and the first took a wife, and died without children. And the second took the wife, and he died childless. And the third took her, and in like wise the residue of the seven, And left no children behind them, and died. Last of all the woman died also. Now at the resurrection whose wife of them shall she be? for vij had her to wife.
Iesus answered and said unto them: The children of this world marry wives, and are married, but they which shall be worthy of that world, and the resurrection from death, neither marry wives, neither are married, nor yet can die any more. For they are equal unto the angels: and are the sons of God, inasmuch as they are the children of the resurrection. And that the dead shall rise again, even Moses signified besides the bush, when he said: the lord God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Iacob. For he is not the God of the dead, but of them which live. For all live in him. Certain of the pharisees answered and said: Master, thou hast well said. And after that durst they not ask him any question at all.
Then said he unto them: how say they that Christ is David's son? And David him self saith in the book of the Psalms: The lord said unto my lord, Sit on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy foot stool. David then calleth him lord: How is he also his son?
Then in the audience of all the people, he said unto his disciples, beware of the scribes, which desire to go in long clothing: and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in the synagogues, and chief rooms at feasts, which devour widows' houses, and pray long under a colour: The same shall receive greater damnation.
The .xxj. Chapter.
As he beheld, he saw the rich men, how they cast in their offerings into the treasury. He saw also a certain poor widow, which cast in thither two mites. And he said: of a truth I say unto you, this poor widow hath put in more than they all. For they all have of their superfluity added unto the offering of God: But she, of her penury, hath cast in all the substance that she had.
As some spake of the temple, how it was garnished with goodly stones, and jewels, he said. The days will come, when of these things which ye see, shall not be left stone upon stone that shall not be thrown down. And they asked him, saying: Master when shall these things be. And what signs will there be, when such things shall come to pass.
And he said: take heed, that ye be not deceived. For many will come in my name, saying of themselves, I am he. And the time draweth near. Follow ye not them therefore. But when ye hear of war, and of dissension: be not afraid, for these things must first come: but the end followeth not by and by. Then said he unto them: Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and great earthquakes shall be in all quarters, and hunger, and pestilence, and fearful things. And great signs shall there be from heaven.
But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up, to the synagogues, and into prison, and bring you before kings, And rulers for my name's sake. And this shall chance you for a testimonial. Let it stick therefore fast in your hearts, not once to study before, what ye shall answer for yourselves: For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, where against, all your adversaries shall not be able to speak nor resist. Yea and ye shall be betrayed of your fathers and mothers, and of your brethren, and kinsmen, and lovers. And some of you shall they put to death. And hated shall ye be of all men for my name's sake. Yet there shall not one hair of your heads perish. With your patience, possess your souls.
And when ye see Ierusalem besieged with an host, then understand, that the desolation of the same is nigh. Then let them which are in jewry fly to the mountains. And let them which are in the midst of it, depart out. And let not them that are in other countries, enter there in. For these be the days of vengeance, to fulfil all that are written. But woe be to them that be with child, and to them that give suck in those days, for there shall be great trouble in the land: and wrath over all this people. And they shall fall on the edge of the sword. And they shall be led captive into all nations. And Ierusalem shall be trodden underfoot of the gentiles, until the time of the gentiles be fulfilled.
And there shall be signs, in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars: and in the earth the people shall be in such perplexity, that they shall not tell which way to turn themselves. The sea and the waves shall roar, and men's hearts shall fail them for fear, and for looking after those things which shall come on the earth. For the powers of heaven shall move. And then shall they see the son of man come in a cloud with power and great glory. When these things begin to come to pass: then look up, and lift up your heads, for your redemption draweth nigh.
And he shewed them a similitude: behold the fig tree, and all other trees, when they shoot forth their buds, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is then nigh at hand. So likewise ye (when ye see these things come to pass) understand, that the kingdom of God is nigh. Verily I say unto you: this generation shall not pass, till all be fulfilled. Heaven and earth shall pass: but my words shall not pass.
Take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be overcome, with surfeiting and drunkenness, and cares of this world: and that, that day come on you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that sit on the face of the earth. Watch therefore continually and pray, that ye may scape all this that shall come. And that ye may stand before the son of man. In the day time taught he in the temple, and at night, he went out, and had abiding in the mount olivete. And all the people came in the morning to him in the temple, for to hear him.
The .xxij. Chapter.
The feast of sweet bread drew nigh which is called ester, and the high priests, and scribes sought how to kill Iesus, but they feared the people. Then entered Satan into Iudas, whose sur name was Iscariot (which was of the number of the twelve) and he went his way, and communed with the high priests and officers, how he would betray him to them. And they were glad: and promised to give him money. And he consented, and sought opportunity to betray him unto them, when the people were away.
Then came the day of sweet bread, when of necessity the ester lamb must be offered. And he sent Peter, and Ihon saying: Go and prepare us the ester lamb, that we may eat. They said to him. Where wilt thou, that we prepare? And he said unto them. Behold as ye be entered into the city, there shall a man meet you bearing a pitcher of water, him follow into the same house that he entereth in, and ye shall say unto the good man of the house. The master sayeth: Where is the guest chamber, where I shall eat mine ester lamb with my disciples? And he shall shew you a great parlour paved. There make ready. They went and found, as he had said unto them: and made ready the ester lamb.
And when the hour came, he sat down and the twelve Apostles with him. And he said unto them: I have inwardly desired to eat this ester lamb with you before that I suffer. For I say unto you: henceforth, I will not eat of it any more, until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and said: Receive this, and divide it among you. For I say unto you: I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of God be come.
And he took bread, gave thanks, and brake it, and gave it unto them, saying: This is my body which is given for you. This do in the remembrance of me. Likewise also, when they had supped, he took the cup saying: This is the cup, the new testament, in my blood, which shall for you be shed.
Yet behold, the hand of him that betrayeth me, is with me on the table. And the son of man goeth as it is appointed: But woe be to that man by whom he is betrayed. And they began to enquire among themselves, which of them it should be, that should do that.
And there was a strife among them, which of them should seem greatest. And he said unto them: The kings of the gentiles reign over them, And they that bear rule over them, are called gracious lords. But ye shall not be so. But he that is greatest among you, shall be as the youngest: And he that is chief, shall be as the minister. For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat: or he that serveth? Is not he that sitteth at meat? And I am among you, as he that ministereth. Ye are they which have bidden with me in my temptations. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my father hath appointed to me: that ye may eat, and drink at my table in my kingdom and sit on seats, and judge the twelve tribes of Israell. And the lord said: Simon, Simon, behold Satan hath desired you, to sift you, as it were wheat: But I have prayed for thee that thy faith fail not. And when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. And he said unto him. lord, I am ready to go with thee into prison, and to death. And he said: I tell thee Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, till thou have thrice denied that thou knewest me.
And he said unto them: when I sent you without wallet, and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye anything? And they said, nothing. And he said to them: But now he that hath a wallet let him take it, and likewise his scrip. And he that hath no sword, let him sell his coat and buy one. I say unto you that yet, that which is written must be performed in me (Even with the wicked was he numbered) for those things which are written of me have an end. And they said: lord, behold here are two swords. And he said unto them: it is enough.
And he came out, and went as he was wont to mount Olivete. And the disciples followed him. And when he came to the place, he said to them: Pray lest ye fall into temptation.
And he gat himself from them, about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed, saying: Father if thou wilt, withdraw this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, But thine be fulfilled. And there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, comforting him. And he was in agony, and prayed somewhat longer. And his sweat was like drops of blood, trickling down to the ground. And he rose up from prayer, and came to his disciples, and found them sleeping for sorrow, and said unto them: Why sleep ye? Rise, and pray lest ye fall into temptation.
While he yet spake: behold, there came a company, and he that was called Iudas, one of the twelve, went before them, and pressed nigh unto Iesus to kiss him. Iesus said unto him: Iudas betrayest thou the son of man with a kiss? When they which were about him saw what would follow, they said unto him. lord, shall we smite with a sword. And one of them smote a servant of him which was the chief priest of all, and smote off his right ear. Iesus answered and said: Suffer ye thus far forth. And he touched his ear, and healed him.
Iesus said unto the high priests and rulers of the temple and the seniors which were come to him. Be ye come out, as unto a thief with swords and staves? When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched not forth hands against me. But this is even your very hour, and the power of darkness. Then took they him, and led him, and brought him to the high priest's house. And Peter followed afar off.
When they had kindled a fire in the midst of the palace, and were set down together, Peter also sat down among them. And one of the wenches, as he sat, beheld him by the light and set good eyesight on him, and said: This same was also with him. Then he denied him saying: Woman I know him not. And after a little while, another saw him and said: Thou art also of them. And Peter said: Man I am not. And about the space of an hour after another affirmed saying: Verily even this fellow was with him, for he is of Galile, Peter said: Man I wot not what thou sayest. And immediately while he yet spake, the cock crew. And the lord turned back and looked upon Peter. And Peter remembered the words of the lord, how he said unto him, before the cock crow thou shalt deny me thrice. And Peter went out, and wept bitterly.
And the men that stood about Iesus, mocked him, and smote him, and blindfolded him, and smote his face. And asked him saying: Areed who it is that smote thee? And many other things despitefully said they against him.
And as soon as it was day, the seniors of the people, and the high priests and scribes, came together, and led him into their council saying: Art thou very Christ? tell us. And he said unto them: if I shall tell you, ye will not believe. And if also I ask you, ye will not answer me. Neither let me go. Hereafter shall the son of man sit on the right hand of the power of God. Then said they all: Art thou then the son of God? He said: Ye say that I am. Then said they: What need we any further witness? We ourselves have heard of his own mouth.
The .xxiij. Chapter.
And the whole multitude of them arose, and led him unto Pilate. And they began to accuse him saying: We have found his fellow, perverting the people, and forbidding to pay tribute to Cesar: And sayeth that he is Christ a king. And Pilate opposed him saying: Art thou the king of the jewes? He answered him, and said: thou sayest. Then said Pilate to the high priests, and to the people: I find no fault in this man. And they were the more fierce, saying: He moveth the people teaching thoroout jewry, and began at Galile, even to this place.
When Pilate heard mention of Galile, he asked whether the man were of Galilee. And as soon as he knew that he was of Herode's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herode, which was at that time in Ierusalem also. When Herode saw Iesus, he was marvelously glad. For he was desirous to see him of a long season, because he had heard many things of him, and trusted to have seen some miracle done by him. Then questioned he with him of many things: But he answered him not one word. The high priests and scribes, stood forth and accused him straitly. And Herod, with his men of war, despised him, and mocked him, And arrayed him in white, and sent him again to Pilate. And the same day Pilate, and Herod were made friends together. For before, they were at variance.
Pilate called together the high priests, and rulers, and the people, and said unto them: Ye have brought this man unto me, as one that perverted the people. And lo I examined him before you, and have found no fault in this man, of those things whereof ye accuse him. No nor yet Herode. For I sent you to him: and lo no thing worthy of death is done to him. I will therefore chasten him and let him loose. For of necessity, he must have let one loose unto them at that feast.
And all the people cried at once, saying: away with him, and deliver to us Barabbas. (which for insurrection made in the city, and murder, was cast into prison) Pilate spake again to them willing to let Iesus loose. And they cried, saying: Crucify him, Crucify him. He said unto them the third time: What harm hath he done? I find no cause of death in him. I will therefore chasten him, and let him go loose. And they cried with loud voice, and required that he might be crucified. And the crying of the high priests prevailed.
And Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they required, and let loose unto them, him that for insurrection, and murder was cast into prison, whom they desired: and delivered Iesus to do with him what they would. And as they led him away, they caught one Simon of Syrene, coming out of the field: And on him laid they the cross to bear it after Iesus.
There followed him a great company of people, and of women, which women bewailed, and lamented him. Iesus turned back unto them, and said: Daughters of Ierusalem, weep not for me: but weep for yourselves, and for your children. For mark, the days will come, when men shall say: happy are the barren and the wombs that never bare, and the paps which never gave suck. Then shall they begin to say to the mountains: fall on us. and to the hills cover us. For if they do this to a green tree: what shall be done, to the dry?
There were two evil doers led with him to be slain. And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified him, and the evil doers, one on right hand, and the other on the left hand. Then said Iesus: Father forgive them, for they wot not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots. And the people stood and beheld.
And the rulers mocked him with them saying: He help other men, let him help himself if he be Christ the chosen of God. The soldiers also mocked him, and came and gave him vinegar and said: if thou be that king of the jewes, save thyself. His superscription was written over him, in greek, latin, and hebreu letters: This is the king of the jewes.
The one of the malefactors which hanged, railed on him, saying: If thou be Christ save thyself and us. The other answered and rebuked him saying: Neither fearest thou God because thou art in the same damnation? We are righteously punished, for we receive according to our deeds: But this man hath done no thing amiss. And he said unto Iesus: lord remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. And Iesus said unto him: Verily I say unto thee, today shalt thou be with me in paradise.
And it was about the sixth hour. And there came a darkness over all the land, until the ninth hour, and the sun was darkened. And the veil of the temple rent even thorow the midst. And Iesus cried with a great voice and said: Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit. And when he thus had said, he gave up the ghost. When the Centurion saw, what had happened, he glorified God saying: Of a surety this man was perfect. And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done: smote their breasts, and returned home. And all his acquaintance stood afar off, and the women, which followed him from Galile, beholding these things.
And behold there was a man named Ioseph a senator, which was a good man and a just, He did not consent to their counsel and deed, which was of Aramathia, a city of the jews. Which same also, waited for the kingdom of God: he went unto Pilate, and begged the body of Iesus. And took it down, and wrapped it in a linen cloth, and laid it in an hewn tomb, wherein was never man before laid. And that day was the saboth even, And the saboth drew on. The women that followed after which came with him from Galile, beheld the sepulchre and how his body was laid. And they returned, and prepared odours, and ointments, And the saboth day they rested, according to the commandment.
The .xxiiij. Chapter.
On the morrow after the saboth, early in the morning, they came unto the tomb and brought the odours which they had prepared, and other women with them. And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre, and went in: but found not the body of the lord Iesu. And it happened, as they were amazed thereat: lo two men stood by them, in shining vestures. And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth: they said to them: why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here: but is risen. Remember how he spake unto you, when he was yet with you in Galile, saying: that the son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again. And they remembered his words, and returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all other. It was Mary Magdalene and Ioanna, and Mary Iacobi, And other that were with them, which told these things unto the Apostles, and their words seemed unto them feigned things, neither believed they them. Then arose Peter and ran unto the sepulchre, and stooped in, And saw the linen clothes laid by them self. And departed wondering in himself at that which had happened.
And behold, two of them went that same day to a town, which was from Ierusalem about three score furlongs, called Emaus: and they talked together of all these things that had happened. And it chanced, as they communed together, and reasoned, that Iesus himself drew near, and went with them. But their eyes were holden, that they could not know him. And he said unto them: What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another as ye walk, and are sad? And the one of them named Cleopas, answered, and said unto him: art thou only a stranger in Ierusalem, and hast not known the things which have chanced therein in these days? To whom he said: what things? And they said unto him: of Iesus of Nazareth which was a prophet, mighty in deed, and word, before God, and all the people. And how the high priests, and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death: and have crucified him. We trusted that it should have been he that should have delivered Israhell. And as touching all these things, today is even the third day, that they were done.
Yea and certain women also of our company made us astonied, which came early unto the sepulchre, and found not his body. And came saying, that they had seen visions of angels which said that he was alive. And certain of them which were with us, went their way to the sepulchre, and found it even so as the women had said: but him they saw not.
And he said unto them: O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken. Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into his glory? And he began at Moses, and at all the prophets, and interpreted unto them, in all scriptures which were written of him. And they drew nigh unto the town which they went to. And he made, as though he would have gone further. And constrained him, saying: Abide with us for it draweth towards night, and the day is far passed. And he went in to tarry with them.
And it came to pass as he sat at meat with them, he took bread and blessed it, and brake it and gave it unto them. And their eyes were opened. And they knew him. And he vanished out of their sight, and they said between themselves: did not our hearts burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and opened to us the scriptures? And they rose up the same hour, and returned again to Ierusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them, saying: The lord is risen in deed, and hath appeared to Simon. And they told what things was done in the way, and how they knew him, by the breaking of bread.
As they thus spake, Iesus himself stood in the midst of them, and said unto them: peace be with you. And they were abashed, and afraid, supposing that they had seen a spirit. And he said unto them: Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts? Behold my hands and my feet. For it is even I myself. Handle me and see. For spirits have not flesh and bones, as ye see me have. And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands, and his feet. And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them: Have ye here any meat? and they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb. And he took it, and ate it before them.
And he said unto them: These are the words, which I spake unto you, while I was yet with you: that all must be fulfilled which were written of me in the law of Moses, and in the prophets, and in the psalmes. Then opened he their wits, that they might understand the scriptures, and said unto them: Thus is it written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise again from death the third day. And that repentance, and remission of sins, should be preached in his name among all nations. And the beginning must be at Ierusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And behold, I will send the promise of my father upon you. But tarry ye in the city of Ierusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.
And he led them out into Bethany, and lift up his hands, and blest them. And it came to pass, as he blessed them, he departed from them, and was carried up into heaven. And they worshipped him, and returned to Ierusalem with great joy. And were continually in the temple, praising, and lauding God.
Here endeth the Gospell off Sainct Luke.
The first Chapter.
In the beginning was that word, and that word was with God: and God was that word. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by it, and without it, was made no thing, that made was. In it was life, And life was the light of men, And the light shineth in the darkness, and darkness comprehended it not.
There was a man sent from God, whose name was Ihon. The same came as a witness, to bear witness of the light, that all men through him might believe. He was not that light: but to bear witness of the light. That was a true light, which lighteneth all men that come into the world. He was in the world, and the world by him was made: and the world knew him not.
He came among his own, and his received him not. Unto as many as received him, gave he power to be the sons of God: in that they believed on his name: which were born not of blood nor of the will of the flesh, nor yet of the will of man: but of God.
And that word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw the glory of it, as the glory of the only begotten son of the father, which word was full of grace, and verity.
Ihon bare witness of him saying: This was he of whom I spake, he that cometh after me, was before me because he was yer than I. And of his fullness have all we received, even favour for favour. For the law was given by Moses, but favour and verity came by Iesus Christ. No man saw God at any time. The only begotten son, which is in the father's bosom, hath declared him.
And this is the record of Ihon: When the jewes sent priests, and levites from Ierusalem, to ask him, what art thou? And he confessed, and denied not, and said plainly: I am not Christ. And they asked him: what then? art thou Helias? And he said: I am not. Art thou a prophet? And he answered no. Then said they unto him: what art thou? That we may give an answer to them that sent us? what sayest thou of thy self? he said: I am the voice of a crier in the wilderness, make straight the way of the lord, as said the prophet Esayas.
And they which were sent, were of the pharisees. And they asked him, and said unto him: why baptisest thou then, if thou be not Christ, nor Helias, neither a prophet? Ihon answered them saying: I baptise with water: but one is come among you, whom ye know not, he it is that cometh after me, which was before me, whose shoe latchet I am not worthy to unloose. These things were done in Bethabara beyond Iordan, where Ihon did baptise.
The next day, Ihon saw Iesus coming unto him, and said: behold the lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. This is he of whom I spake: After me cometh a man, which was before me. For he was yer than I, and I knew him not: but that he should be declared to Israhell, therefore came I baptising with water.
And Ihon bare record, saying: I saw the spirit descend from heaven, like unto a dove, and it abode upon him, and I knew him not: But he that sent me to baptise in water, said unto me: Upon whom thou shalt see the spirit descend, and tarry still on him, the same is he which baptiseth with the holy ghost. And I saw it, and bare record, that this is the son of God.
The next day after Ihon stood again, and two of his disciples, and he beheld Iesus as he walked by, and said: behold the lamb of God. And the two disciples heard him speak, and they followed Iesus. Iesus turned about, and saw them follow, and said unto them: What seek ye? They said unto him: Rabbi (which is to say by interpretation, Master) where dwellest thou? He said unto them: come and see. They came and saw where he dwelt: and abode with him that day. For it was about the tenth hour.
One of the two which heard Ihon speak, and followed Iesus, was Andrew Simon Peter's brother. The same found his brother Simon first, and said unto him: we have found Messias, which is by interpretation anointed: And brought him to Iesus. And Iesus beheld him and said: thou art Simon the son of Ionas, thou shalt be called Cephas: which is by interpretation a stone.
The day following Iesus would go into Galile, and found Philip, and said unto him, follow me. Philip was of Bethsaida the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip found Nathanael, and said unto him: We have found him of whom Moses wrote in the law, and the prophets: Iesus the son of Ioseph of Nazareth. And Nathanael said unto him: Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip said to him: Come and see.
Iesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and said of him: Behold a right Israelite, in whom is no guile. Nathanael said unto him: From whence knewest thou me? Iesus answered and said unto him: Before that Philip called thee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee. Nathanael answered and said unto him: Rabbi, thou art the son of God, Thou art the king of Israhel. Iesus answered and said unto him: Because I said unto thee, I saw thee under the fig tree, thou believest. Thou shalt see greater things than these. And he said unto him: Verily, verily, I say unto you: hereafter shall ye see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending, and descending over the son of man.
The second Chapter.
And the third day, was there a marriage in Cana a city of Galile. And Iesus mother was there. Iesus was called also and his disciples unto the marriage. And when the wine failed, Iesus mother said unto him: they have no wine. Iesus said unto her: woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come. His mother said unto the ministers: whatsoever he sayeth unto you, do it. And there were standing six waterpots of stone after the manner of the purifying of the jewes, containing two or three firkins apiece.
Iesus said unto them: fill the water pots with water, and they filled them up to the harde brim. And he said unto them: Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it. When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was turned unto wine, nother knew whence it was (But the ministers which drew the water knew). He called the bridegroom, and said unto him: all men at the beginning set forth good wine, And when men be drunk, then that which is worse: But thou hast kept back the good wine hitherto.
This beginning of miracles did Iesus in Cana of Galile, and shewed his glory, and his disciples believed on him. After that descended he into Capernaum, and his mother, and his brethren, and his disciples: But continued not long there.
And the jewes' ester was even at hand, And Iesus went up to Ierusalem, and found sitting in the temple those that sold oxen and sheep, and doves, and changers of money sitting. And he made a scourge of small cords, and drave them all out of the temple, both sheep and oxen, and poured down the changers' money, and overthrew their tables. And said unto them that sold doves: Have these things hence, and make not my father's house, an house of merchandise. His disciples remembered, how that it was written: The zeal of thine house, hath even eaten me.
Then answered the jewes and said unto him: what token shewest thou unto us, seeing that thou dost these things? Iesus answered, and said unto them: destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up again. Then said the jewes: In xlvj. years this temple was built: and wilt thou raise it up in three days? But he spake of the temple of his body. As soon therefore as he was risen from death again, his disciples remembered that he thus said unto them. And they believed the scripture, and the words which Iesus had said.
When he was at Ierusalem, at ester in the feast, many believed on his name: when they saw the signs which he did: but Iesus put not himself in their hands, because he knew all men, and needed not, that any man should testify of man. For he knew what was in man.
The .iij. Chapter.
There was a man of the pharisees named Nicodemus a ruler among the jewes. He to Iesus by night, and said unto him: Master, we know that thou art, a teacher which art come from God. For no man could do such miracles as thou doest, except God were with him: Iesus answered, and said unto him: Verily verily I say unto thee: except a man be born a new, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
Nicodemus said unto him: how can a man be born, when he is old? can he enter into his mother's body and be born again? Iesus answered: verily, verily I say unto thee: except that a man be born of water, and of the spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh, is flesh. And that which is born of the spirit, is spirit. Marvel not that I said to thee, ye must be born a new. The wind bloweth where he listeth, and thou hearest his sound: but canst not tell whence he cometh and whither he goeth. So is every man that is born of the spirit. And Nicodemus answered and said unto him: how can these things be? Iesus answered and said unto him: Art thou a master in Israhell, and knowest not these things? Verily verily, I say unto thee, we speak that we know, and testify that we have seen: And ye receive not our witness. If I have told you earthly things and ye have not believe: How should ye believe if I shall tell you of heavenly things?
And no man ascendeth up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, that is to say, the son of man which is in heaven.
And as Moses lift up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the son of man be lift up, that none which believeth in him perish: but have eternal life.
God so loved the world, that he gave his only son for the intent, that none that believe in him, should perish: But should have everlasting life. For God sent not his son into the world, to condemn the world: But that the world through him, might be saved. He that believeth on him shall not be condemned. But he that believeth not, is condemned all ready, because he believeth not in the name of the only son of God. And this is the condemnation: Light is come into the world, and the men have loved darkness more than light, because their deeds were evil. For every man that evil doeth, hateth the light: neither cometh to light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doth truth, cometh to the light, that his deeds might be known, how that they are wrought in God.
After that came Iesus and his disciples into the jewes land, and there abode with them and baptised, and Ihon also baptised in Enon besides Salim, because there was much water there, and they came, and were baptised. For Ihon was not yet cast into prison.
There arose a question between Ihon's disciples and the jewes about purifying. And they came unto Ihon, and said unto him: Master, behold he that was with thee beyond Iordan, to whom thou barest witness, baptiseth, and all men come to him. Ihon answered, and said: A man can receive nothing at all except it be given him from heaven. Ye yourselves are witnesses, how that I said: I am not Christ: but am sent before him. He that hath the bride is the bridegroom: But the friend of the bridegroom which standeth by and heareth him, rejoiceth greatly of the bridegroom's voice. Therefore this my joy is fulfilled. He must increase: and I must decrease.
He that cometh from on high is above all: he that is of the earth is of the earth, and speaketh of the earth. He that cometh from heaven, is above all: And testifieth that he hath seen, and heard: and his testimony no man receiveth. Whosoever receiveth his witness, the same hath sealed that God is true. For he whom God hath sent, speaketh the words of God. For God giveth not the spirit by measure. The father loveth the son, and hath given all things into his hand. He that believeth on the son, hath everlasting life. And he that beloveth not the son, shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him.
The .iiij. Chapter.
As soon as the lord had knowledge, how that it was come to the ears of the pharisees, that Iesus made and baptised more disciples then Ihon (though that Iesus himself baptised not: but his disciples) he left jewry, and departed again in to Galile. And it was so that he must needs go thorow Samaria. Then came he to a city of Samaria called Sichar besides the possession that Iacob gave to his son Ioseph, and there was Iacob's well. Iesus then wearied in his journey, sat thus on the well.
It was about the sixth hour: There came a woman of Samaria to draw water. Iesus said unto her: Give me drink. (for his disciples were gone away unto the town to buy meat.) The woman of Samaria said unto him: how is it, that thou being a jewe askest drink of me, which am a Samaritan? (for the jewes meddle not with the Samaritans.) Iesus answered and said unto her: if thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is, that sayeth to thee give me drink: thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee water of life. The woman said unto him: Sir thou hast no thing to draw it withall, and the well is deep: from whence then hast thou that water of life? Art thou greater than our father Iacob, which gave us the well, and he himself drank thereof and his children and his cattle?
Iesus answered and said unto her: whosoever drinketh of this water, shall thirst again. But whosoever shall drink of the water that I shall give him, shall never be more a thirst: But the water that I shall give him, shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. The woman said unto him: Sir give me of that water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw. Iesus said unto her: Go and call thy husband, and come hither. The woman answered and said to him: I have no husband. Iesus said to her: Thou hast well said, I have no husband. For thou hast had five husbands, and he whom thou now hast, is not thy husband. That saidst thou truly.
The woman said unto him: Sir I perceive that thou art a prophet. Our fathers worshipped in this mountain: and ye say that in Ierusalem is the place where men ought to pray. Iesus said unto her: woman trust me, The hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Ierusalem, worship the father. Ye worship ye wot nere what: we know what we worship. For salvation cometh of the jewes. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the father in spirit, and in verity. For verily such the father requireth to worship him. God is a spirit, and they that worship him, must honour him, in spirit and verity.
The woman said unto him: I wot well Messias shall come, which is called Christ. When he is once come, he will tell us all things. Iesus said unto her: I that speak unto thee, am he. And even at that point, came his disciples, and marvelled that he talked with the woman. Yet no man said unto him: what meanest thou, or why talkest thou with her? The woman left her water pot behind her, and went her way into the city, and said to the men there: Come see a man which told me all things that ever I did. Is not he Christ? Then they went out of the city, and came unto him.
In the meanwhile his disciples prayed him saying: Master eat. He said unto them: I have meat to eat, that ye know not of. Then said the disciples between themselves: hath any man brought him meat? Iesus said unto them: My meat is to fulfill the will of him that sent me. And to finish his work. Say not ye: There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? Behold I say unto you, lift up your eyes, and look on the regions: For they are white already unto harvest. And he that reapeth receiveth reward, and gathereth fruit unto life eternal: That both he that soweth, might rejoice also, and he that reapeth. And herein is the saying true, that one soweth, And another reapeth. I sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labor. Other men laboured, And ye are entered into their labors.
Many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him, For the woman's saying, which testified: He told me all things that ever I did. Then when the Samaritans were come unto him, They besought him, that he would tarry with them. And he abode there two days. And many more believed because of his own words. And said unto the woman: Now we believe not because of thy saying: for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is even indeed Christ the saviour of the world.
After two days, he departed thence, and went away into Galile. And Iesus himself testified, that a prophet hath none honour in his own country. Then as soon as he was come into Galile, the Galileans received him which had seen all things, that he did at Ierusalem on the feast. For they went also unto the feast day. And Iesus came again into Cana of Galile, where he turned water into wine.
And there was a certain ruler, whose son was sick at Capernaum. As soon as the same heard that Iesus was come out of jewry into Galilee he went unto him, and besought him, that he would descend, and heal his son: For he was even ready to die. Then said Iesus unto him: Except ye see signs and wonders, ye believe not. The ruler said unto him: Sir come away or ever that my child die. Iesus said unto him go thy way, thy son liveth. And the man believed the words that Iesus had spoken unto him, and went his way. And anon as he went on his way, his servants met him, and told him, saying: thy child liveth, Then enquired he of them the hour when he began to amend. And they said unto him: Yesterday the seventh hour, the fever left him. And the father knew that it was the same hour in which Iesus said unto him: Thy son liveth. And he believed, and all his household. This is again the second miracle, that Iesus did, after he was come out of jewry into Galilee.
The .v. Chapter.
After that there was a feast of the jewes, and Iesus went up to Ierusalem. There is at Ierusalem, by the slaughterhouse a pool called in the Hebrew tongue, bethesda, having five porches, in them lay a great multitude of sick folk, of blind, halt, and withered, waiting for the moving of the water. For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool and stirred the water. Whosoever then first after the stirring of the water stepped in, was made whole of whatsoever disease he had. And a certain man was there, which had been diseased xxxviij. years. When Iesus saw him lie, and knew that he now long time had been diseased, he said unto him, Wilt thou be whole? The sick answered him: Sir I have no man when the water is moved, to put me into the pool. But in the mean time, while I am about to come, another steppeth down before me.
Iesus said unto him: rise, take up thy bed, and walk. And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and went. And the same day was the saboth day. The jewes therefore said unto him that was made whole: It is the saboth day, it is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed. He answered them: he that made me whole, said unto me: Take up thy bed, and get thee hence. Then asked they him: what man is that which said unto thee, take up thy bed and walk? And he that was healed, wist not who it was. For Iesus had gotten himself away, because that there was press of people in the place.
After that, Iesus found him in the temple, and said unto him: Behold thou art made whole, see thou sin no more, lest a worse thing happen unto thee. The man departed, and told the jewes that it was Iesus, the which had made him whole. And therefore the jewes did persecute Iesus, and sought the means to slay him, because he had done these things on the saboth day. Iesus answered them: My father worketh hitherto, and I work. Therefore the jewes sought the more to kill him, not only because he had broken the saboth: but said also that God was his father and made himself equal with God.
Then answered Iesus and said unto them: verily, verily, I say unto you: the son can do no thing of himself: but that he seeth the father do. For whatsoever he doeth, that doeth the son also. For the father loveth the son, and sheweth him all things, whatsoever he himself doeth. And he will shew him greater works than these, because ye should marvel. For likewise as the father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them, even so the son quickeneth whom he will. Neither judgeth the father any man: but hath committed all judgement unto the son, because that all men should honour the son, even as they honour the father. He that honoureth not the son, the same honoureth not the father which hath sent him. Verily verily I say unto you: He that heareth my words, And believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into damnation: but is scaped from death unto life.
Verily, verily I say unto you: the time shall come, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the son of God. And they that hear, shall live. For as the father hath life in himself, so likewise hath he given to the son to have life in himself. And hath given him power also to judge in that he is the son of man. Marvel not at this, that the hour shall come, in the which all that are in the graves, shall hear his voice, and shall come forth, they that have done good unto the resurrection of life. And they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.
I can of mine own self do nothing at all. As I hear I judge, and my judgement is just, because I seek not mine own will: But the will of the father which hath sent me. If I bear witness of myself, my witness is not true. There is another that beareth witness of me. And I am sure that the witness which he beareth of me is true. Ye sent unto Ihon, and he bare witness unto the truth: but I receive no record of man. Nevertheless, these things I say, that ye might be safe. He was a burning, and a shining light, and ye would for a season have rejoiced in his light. But I have greater witness, than the witness of Ihon. For the works which my father hath given me to finish: the same works which I do, bear witness of me, that my father sent me. And my father himself, which hath sent me, beareth witness of me. Ye have not heard his voice at any time, Nor yet have seen his shape. And his words have ye not abiding in you: For ye believe not him whom he hath sent.
Search the scriptures, for in them, ye think ye have eternal life: And they are they which testify of me. And yet will ye not come to me that ye might have life. I receive not praise of men: But I know you, that ye have not the love of God in you. I am come in my father's name, and ye receive me not. If another shall come in his own name, him will ye receive. How can ye believe, which receive praise one of another, and seek not the praise which cometh of God only?
Suppose not, that I will accuse you to my father. There is one that accuseth you, verily Moses in whom ye trust. For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me: For he wrote of me. But when ye believe not his writing: how shall ye believe my words.
The .vj. Chapter.
After that went Iesus his way over the sea of Galile nigh to a city called Tiberias. And a great multitude followed him, because they had seen his miracles that he did on them that were diseased. Iesus went up into a mountain, and there he sat with his disciples. (And ester a feast of the jewes, was nigh.) Then Iesus lift up his eyes, and saw a great company come unto him, and said unto Philip: whence shall we buy bread that these might eat: This he said to prove him. For he himself knew what he would do.
Philip answered him, two hundred pennyworth of bread are not sufficient for them, that every man have a little. Then said unto him, one of his disciples (Andrew Simon Peter's brother.) There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two fishes: but what is that among so many? Iesus said: Make the people to sit down. (There was much grass in the place.) And the men sat down, in number, about five thousand. Iesus took the bread, and gave thanks, and gave to his disciples, and his disciples, to them that were set down. And likewise of the fishes, as much as they would.
When they had eaten enough, he said unto his disciples: gather up the broken meat that remaineth: that nothing be lost. They gathered it together, and filled twelve baskets with the broken meat, of the five barley loaves, which broken meat remained unto them that had eaten. Then those men, when they had seen the miracle that Iesus did, said: This is of a truth the same prophet which shall come into the world. Iesus knew well enough, that they would come, and take him up, to make him king: and therefore departed he again, into a mountain, himself alone.
When even was come his disciples went unto the sea, and entered into a ship. And went over the sea unto Capernaum. And anon it was dark, and Iesus was not come to them. And the sea arose with a great wind. When they had rowed about a xxv. or a xxx. furlongs, they saw Iesus walk on the sea, and to draw nigh unto the ship, and they were afraid. And he said unto them: It is I, be not afraid. Then would they have received him into the ship, and the ship was by and by at the land whither they went.
The day following, the people which stood on the other side of the sea, saw that there was none other ship there save that one wherein his disciples were entered, and that Iesus went not in with his disciples into the ship: but that his disciples were gone away alone. (There came other ships from Tiberias nigh unto the place, where they ate bread, when the lord had blessed.) Then when the people saw that Iesus was not there neither his disciples, they also took shipping and came to Capernaum seeking for Iesus.
And when they had found him on the other side of the sea, they said unto him: Master when camest thou hither? Iesus answered them and said: verily verily I say unto you: ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles: but because ye ate of the loaves, and were filled. Labor not for the meat which perisheth, but for the meat that endureth unto everlasting life, which meat the son of man shall give unto you. For him hath God the father sealed.
Then said they unto him: what shall we do that we might work the works of God? Iesus answered and said unto them: This is the work of God, that ye believe on him, whom he hath sent. They said unto him: what sign shewest thou then? that we may see and believe thee? What dost thou work? our fathers did eat manna in the desert, as it is written: He gave them bread from heaven to eat. Iesus said unto them: verily, verily I say unto you: Moses gave you not bread from heaven: but my father giveth you the true bread from heaven. For he is the bread of God, which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.
Then said they unto him: Master ever more give us this bread. And Iesus said unto them: I am that bread of life. He that cometh to me, shall not hunger: and he that believeth on me shall never thirst. But I said unto you: that ye have seen me, and yet believe ye not. All that my father giveth me, cometh to me: and him that cometh to me, cast I not out at the doors. For I came down from heaven: not to do mine own will: but his will which hath sent me. And this is my father's will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me, I shall loose no thing: but should raise it up again at the last day. And this is the will of him that sent me: That every man which seeth the son, And believeth on him, have everlasting life. And I will raise him up at the last day.
The jewes murmured at it, because he said: I am that bread which is come down from heaven. And they said: Is not this Iesus the son of Ioseph, whose father, and mother we know? How is it then that he sayeth, I came down from heaven? Iesus answered and said unto them. Murmur not between yourselves. No man can come to me except my father which hath sent me, draw him. And I will raise him up at the last day. It is written in the prophets: And they shall all be taught of God. Every man which hath heard, and learned of the father, cometh unto me, not that any man hath seen the father, save he which is of God. The same hath seen the father.
Verily verily I say unto you, he that believeth on me hath everlasting life. I am that bread of life. Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead? This is that bread which cometh from heaven, that he which of it eateth, should also not die. I am that living bread which came down from heaven. If any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever. And the bread that I will give, is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.
The jewes strove among themselves saying: How can this fellow give us his flesh to eat? Iesus said unto them: Verily, verily I say unto you, except ye eat the flesh of the son of man, and drink his blood, ye shall not have life in you. Whosoever eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, the same hath eternal life: And I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed: and my blood is drink indeed. He that eateth my flesh and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me and I in him. As my living father hath sent me, even so live I by my father: and he that eateth me, shall live by me. This is the bread which came from heaven: not as your fathers have eaten manna and are dead. He that eateth of this bread, shall live ever.
These things said he in the synagogue as he taught in Capernaum. Many of his disciples, when they had heard this, said: this is an hard saying. Who can abide the hearing of it? Iesus knew in himself, that his disciples murmu red at it, and said unto them: Doth this offend you? what and if ye shall see the son of man ascend up where he was before? It is the spirit that quickeneth, the flesh profiteth nothing. The words that I speak unto you are spirit and life. But there are some of you that believe not. For Iesus knew from the beginning, which they were that believed not. And who should betray him. And he said: Therefore said I unto you: that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my father.
From that time many of his disciples went away from him, and companied no more with him. Then said Iesus to the twelve: will ye also go away? Simon Peter answered him: Master to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life, And we have believed, and known, that thou art Christ the son of the living God. Iesus answered them: Have not I chosen you twelve? And yet one of you is the devil? He spake it of Iudas Iscariot the son of Simon. For he it was that should betray him, and was one of the twelve.
The .vij. Chapter.
After that Iesus went about into Galile, and would not go about in jewry, for the jewes sought to kill him. The jewes' tabernacle feast was at hand. His brethren therefore said unto him: Get thyself hence and go into jewry that thy disciples may see thy works that thou doest. There is no man that doeth any thing secretly, and he himself seeketh to be known. If thou do such things, shew thyself to the world. For as yet his brethren believed not in him.
Then Iesus said unto them: My time is not yet come, your time is alway ready. The world cannot hate you. Me it hateth: Because I testify of it, that the works of it are evil. Go ye up unto this feast, I will not go up yet unto this feast, for my time is not yet full come. These words he said unto them, and abode still in Galile. As soon as his brethren were gone up, then went he also up unto the feast, not openly: but as it were privily. Then sought him the jewes at the feast, and said: Where is he? And much murmuring was there of him among the people. Some said: He is good. Other said nay, but he deceiveth the people. No man spake openly of him, for fear of the jewes.
In the midst of the feast, Iesus went up into the temple, and taught. And the jewes marvelled, saying: How knoweth he the scriptures? seeing that he never learned. Iesus answered them, and said: My doctrine is not mine: but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God: or whether I spake of myself. He that speaketh of himself, seeketh his own praise. But he that seeketh his praise that sent him, he is true, and no unrighteousness is in him.
Did not Moses give you a law? And yet none of you keepeth the law? Why go ye about to kill me? The people answered and said: Thou hast the devil. Who goeth about to kill thee? Iesus answered, and said unto them, I have done one work, and ye all marvel. Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision, not because it is of Moses, but of the fathers. And yet ye on the saboth day circumcise a man. If a man on the saboth day receive circumcision without breaking of the law of Moses: Disdain ye at me, because I have made a man every whit whole on the saboth day? Judge not after the utter appearance: but judge righteous judgement.
Then said some of them of Ierusalem: Is not this he whom they go about to kill? behold he speaketh boldly, and they say nothing to him. Do not our rulers know indeed, that this is very Christ? But we know this man whence he is, but when Christ cometh, no man shall know whence he is.
Then cried Iesus in the temple as he taught saying: And me ye know, and whence I am ye know: and I am not come of myself. But he that sent me is true, whom ye know not. I know him: For I am of him, and he hath sent me. Then sought the jews to take him, but no man laid hands on him, because his time was not yet come. Many of the people believed on him, and said: When Christ cometh: Will he do more miracles than this man hath done?
The pharisees heard that the people murmured such things about him: and the pharisees and scribes sent ministers forth to take him. Then said Iesus unto them: Yet am I a little while with you, and then go I unto him that sent me. Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me: And where I am, thither can ye not come. Then said the jewes between themselves: Whither will he go? that we shall not find him. Will he go among the gentiles, which are scattered all abroad, and teach the gentiles? What manner of saying is this that he said: ye shall seek me, and shall not find me: And where I am, thither can ye not come?
In the last day, that great day of the feast: Iesus stood and cried saying: If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink. Whosoever believeth on me, as sayeth the scripture, out of his belly shall flow rivers of water of life. This spake he of the spirit, which they that believed on him should receive. For the holy ghost was not yet there, because that Iesus was not yet glorified. Many of the people, when they heard this saying said: This is, no doubt, a prophet. Other said: this is Christ. Some said: shall Christ come out of Galilee? Saith not the scripture that Christ shall come of the seed of David: and out of the town of Bethlehem where David was? So was there dissension among the people for his sake. And some of them would have taken him: but no man laid hands on him.
Then came the ministers to the high priests, and pharisees. And they said unto them: why have ye not brought him? The servants answered: never man spake as this man speaketh. Then answered them the pharisees: are ye also deceived? Doth any of the rulers, or of the pharisees believe on him? But the common people which know not the law are a cursed. Nicodemus said unto them (He that came to Iesus by night which was one of them.) Doth our law judge any man, before it be heard, and known, what he hath done? They answered, and said unto him: Art thou also of Galile? Search and look, for out of Galile ariseth no prophet. And every man went unto his own house.
The .viij. Chapter.
Iesus went unto mount olivet, and early in the morning came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him, And he sat down, and taught them. The scribes and pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in advoutry, and set her in the midst and said unto him: Master this woman was taken in advoutry, even as the deed was a doing. Moses in the law commanded us that such should be stoned: What sayest thou therefore? And this they said to tempt him: that they might have, whereof to accuse him. Iesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground. And while they continued asking him, he lifted himself up, And said unto them: let him that is among you without sin, cast the first stone at her. And again he stooped down and wrote on the ground. As soon as they heard that, they went out one by one the eldest first. And Iesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. When Iesus had lifted up himself again, and saw no man, but the woman, He said unto her: Woman, where are those thine accusers? Hath no man condemned thee? She said: Sir no man. Iesus said: Neither do I condemn thee. Go hence and sin no more.
Then spake Iesus again unto them saying: I am the light of the world. He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness: but shall have the light of life. The pharisees said unto him: thou bearest record of thyself, thy record is not true. Iesus answered and said unto them: And if I bear record of myself, my record is true for I know whence I come, and whither I go. Ye cannot tell whence I come, and whither I go. Ye judge after the flesh, I judge no man, and if I judge, then is my judgement true. For I am not alone: but I and my father that sent me. It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two men is true. I am one that bear witness of myself, and my father that sent me beareth witness of me.
Then said they unto him: where is thy father? Iesus answered: ye neither know me, nor yet my father. If ye had known me, ye should have known my father also. These words spake Iesus in the treasury, as he taught in the temple. And no man laid hands on him, For his time was not yet come. Then said Iesus again unto them: I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins. Whither I go thither can ye not come. Then spake the jewes: will he kill himself, because he saith: whither I go, thither can ye not come? And he said unto them: ye are from beneath, I am from above. Ye are of this world, I am not of this world. I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins. For except ye believe that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.
Then said they unto him, who art thou? And Iesus said unto them: Even the very same thing that I say unto you. I have many things to say, and to judge of you. But he that sent me is true. And I speak in the world, those things which I have heard of him. They understood not that he spake of his father.
Then said Iesus unto them: When ye have lift up on high the son of man then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself, But as my father hath taught me, even so I speak. And he that sent me is with me. My father hath not left me alone, For I do always those things that please him. As he spake these words, many believed on him.
Then said Iesus to those jewes which believed on him: If ye continue in my saying, then are ye my very disciples: and ye shall know the truth: And the truth shall make you free. They answered him: We be Abraham's seed, and were never bond to any man: why sayest thou then, ye shall be made free?
Iesus answered them: verily verily I say unto you, that whosoever committeth sin, is the servant of sin. And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: But the son abideth ever. If the son therefore shall make you free, then are ye free in deed. I know that ye are Abraham's seed: but ye seek means to kill me because my sayings have no place in you. I speak that I have seen with my father: and ye do that which ye have seen with your father.
They answered and said unto him: Abraham is our father. Iesus said unto them. If ye were Abraham's children, ye would do the deeds of Abraham. But now ye go about to kill me, a man that have told you the truth, which I have heard of my father. This did not Abraham. Ye do the deeds of your father. Then said they unto him: we were not born of fornication. We have one father that is God. Iesus said unto them: if God were your father, then would ye have loved me. For I proceeded forth and come from God. Neither came I of myself, but he sent me. Why do ye not know my speech? Because ye cannot abide the hearing of my words.
Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father, ye will follow: He was a murderer from the beginning, And abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, then speaketh he of his own. For he is a liar, and the father thereof. And because I tell you the truth, therefore believe ye not me.
Which of you can rebuke me of sin? If I say the truth, why do not ye believe me? He that is of God, heareth God's words. Ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God. Then answered the jewes and said unto him: Say we not well that thou art a Samaritan and hast the devil? Iesus answered: I have not the devil: but I honour my father, and ye have dishonored me. I seek not mine own praise: There is one that seeketh it and judgeth.
Verily verily I say unto you, if a man keep my sayings, he shall never see death. Then said the jewes to him: Now know we that thou hast the devil. Abraham is dead, and also the prophets, and yet thou sayest: if a man keep my saying he shall never taste of death. Art thou greater than our father Abraham? which is dead? and the prophets are dead. Whom makest thou thyself?
Iesus answered: If I praise myself, mine praise is nothing worth. It is my father that praiseth me, which ye say is your God. And yet have ye not known him: but I know him. And if I should say, I know him not, I should be a liar like unto you, But I know him, and keep his saying.
Your father Abraham was glad to see my day, and he saw it and rejoiced. Then said the jewes unto him: Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham? Iesus said unto them: Verily verily I say unto you: yer Abraham was I am. Then took they up stones, to cast at him. But Iesus hid himself, and went out of the temple.
The .ix. Chapter.
And as Iesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth, And his disciples asked him saying. Master, who did sin: this man, or his father and mother, that he was born blind? Iesus answered: Neither this man hath sinned, nor yet his father and mother: but that the works of God should be shewed on him. I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day. The night cometh, when no man can work. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.
As soon as he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and rubbed the clay on the eyes of the blind, and said unto him: Go wash thee in the pool of Siloe (which by interpretation, signifieth sent.) He went his way and washed, and came again seeing. The neighbours, and they that had seen him before how that he was a beggar said: Is not this he that sat and begged? Some said: this is he. Other said: he is like him. He himself said: I am even he. They said unto him: How are thine eyes opened then? He answered and said: The man that is called Iesus, made clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me: Go to the pool Siloe, and wash. I went and washed and received my sight. They said unto him: where is he? He said: I cannot tell.
Then brought they to the pharisees, him that a little before was blind. (It was the saboth day when Iesus made the clay, and opened his eyes.) Then again the pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. He said unto them: He put clay upon mine eyes, And I washed, and I see. Then said some of the pharisees: this man is not of God, because he keepeth not the saboth day. Other said: how can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was strife among them. Then spake they unto the blind again: What sayest thou of him, because he hath opened thine eyes? And he said: He is a prophet.
The jewes did not believe of the fellow, how that he was blind, and received his sight: until they had called the father and mother of him that had received his sight. And they asked them saying: Is this your son, whom ye say was born blind? How doth he now see then? His father and mother answered them and said: we wot well that this is our son, and that he was born blind: But by what means he now seeth, that can we not tell or who hath opened his eyes can we not tell. He is old enough, ask him, let him answer for himself, of things that pertain to himself. Such words spake his father, and mother, because they feared the jewes, for the jewes had conspired already that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be excommunicate out of the Synagogue. Therefore said his father and mother: he is old enough, ask him.
Then again called they the man that was blind, and said unto him: Give God the praise, we know that this man is a sinner. He answered and said: Whether he be a sinner or no, I cannot tell: One thing I am sure of, that I was blind, and now I see. Then said they to him again: What did he to thee? How opened he thine eyes? He answered them, I told you yerwhile, And ye did not hear. Wherefore would ye hear it again? Will ye also be his disciples? Then rated they him, and said: Thou art his disciple. We are Moses' disciples. We are sure that God spake with Moses. This fellow we know not from whence he is.
The man answered, and said unto them: this is a marvelous thing that ye wot nere whence he is, and yet hath he opened mine eyes. We know well enough that God heareth no sinners: But if any man be a worshipper of God: and do what his will is, him heareth he. Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind. If this man were not of God, he could have done no thing. They answered and said unto him: thou art altogether born in sin: and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out.
Iesus heard that they had excommunicated him: and as soon as he had found him he said unto him: dost thou believe on the son of God? He answered and said: And who is it lord, that I might believe on him? And Iesus said unto him: Thou hast seen him, and he it is that talketh with thee. And he said: lord I believe: And worshipped him. Iesus said: I am come unto judgement, into this world: that they which see not, might see, and they which see might be made blind. And some of the pharisees which were with him, heard these words and said unto him: Are we then blind? Iesus said unto them, if ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say we see, therefore your sin remaineth.
The .x. Chapter.
Verily verily I say unto you: Whosoever entereth not in by the door, into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way: he is a thief and a robber. He that goeth in by the door, is the shepherd of the sheep. To this man the porter openeth the door, and the sheep hear his voice, And he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out, and when he hath sent forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: For they know his voice. A stranger they will not follow, but will fly from him. For they know not the voice of strangers. This manner of saying spake Iesus unto them. And they understood not, what things they were, which he spake unto them.
Then said Iesus unto them again: Verily verily I say unto you: that I am the door of the sheep. All even as many as came before me, are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by me, if any man enter in, he shall be safe, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not but for to steal and kill, and destroy. I am come that they might have life, and have it more abundantly.
I am a good shepherd, a good shepherd giveth his life for his sheep. An hired servant which is not the shepherd, neither the sheep are his own, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and flyeth, and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hired servant flyeth because he is an hired servant, and careth not for the sheep. I am that good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. As my father knoweth me: even so know I my father. And I give my life for my sheep, and other sheep I have, which are not of this fold. Them also must I bring, that they shall hear my voice. And there shall be one flock, and one shepherd.
Therefore doth my father love me, because I put my life from me, that I might take it again. No man taketh it from me: but I put it away of myself. I have power to put it from me, and power I have to take it again. This commandment have I received of my father. Again there was dissension among the jewes for these sayings, and many of them said: He hath the devil, and is mad: why hear ye him? other said, these are not the words of him that hath the devil: Can the devil open the eyes of the blind?
It was at Ierusalem the feast of the dedication, and it was the winter: And Iesus walked in Solomon's hall. Then came the jewes round about him, and said unto him: How long dost thou make us doubt? If thou be Christ, tell us plainly. Iesus answered them: I told you and ye believe not: The works that I do in my father's name, bear witness of me: but ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep. As I said unto you: my sheep, hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me, and I give unto them eternal life, and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My father which gave them me, is greater than all men, and no man is able to take them out of my father's hand. And I and my father are one.
Then the jewes again took up stones, to stone him withall. Iesus answered them: many good works have I shewed you from my father: for which of them will ye stone me? The jewes answered him saying: For thy good works' sake we stone thee not: but for thy blasphemy, and because that thou being a man, makest thyself God. Iesus answered them: Is it not written in your law: I have said, ye are gods? If he called them gods unto whom the word of God was spoken (and the scripture cannot be broken) say ye then to him, whom the father hath sanctified, and sent into the world: Thou blasphemest, because I said I am the son of God? If I do not the works of my father, believe me not. But though ye believe not me, yet believe the works, that ye may know and believe that the father is in me, and I in him.
Again they went about to take him, but he escaped out of their hands, and went away again beyond Iordan, into the place where Ihon before had baptised, and there abode. And many resorted unto him, and said: Ihon did no miracle: But all things that Ihon spake of this man are true.. And there many believed on him there.
The .xj. Chapter.
A certain man was sick, named Lazarus of Bethania the town of Mary and her sister Martha. It was that Mary which anointed Iesus with ointment, and wept his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was sick, and his sister sent unto him saying: lord behold, he whom thou lovest is sick. When Iesus that heard he said: this infirmity is not unto death: But for the laud of God, that the son of God might be praised by the reason of it. Iesus loved Martha and her sister, and Lazarus. After he heard that he was sick, then abode he two days still in the same place where he was.
Then after that said he to his disciples: let us go into jewry again. His disciples said unto him: Master, the jewes lately sought means to stone thee, and wilt thou go thither again? Iesus answered: are there not twelve hours in the day? If a man walk in the day he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. If a man walk in the night he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. This said he. And after that he said unto them: our friend Lazarus sleepeth, but I go to wake him out of sleep. Then said his disciples: lord if he sleep, then shall he do well enough. Iesus spake of his death: but they thought that he had spoken of the natural sleep. Then said Iesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead, and I am glad for your sakes, that I was not there, because ye may believe. Nevertheless let us go unto him. Then said Thomas (which is called Didymus,) unto the disciples: let us also go, that we may die with him.
Then went Iesus, and found, that he had lain in his grave four days already. Bethanie was nigh unto Ierusalem, about xv. furlongs off, And many of the jewes came to Martha and Mary, to comfort them over their brother. Martha as soon as she heard that Iesus was coming, went and met him. Mary sat still at home.
Then said Martha unto Iesus: lord if thou hadst been here, my brother had not been dead: but nevertheless, I know that whatsoever thou askest of God, God will give it thee. Iesus said unto her: Thy brother shall rise again. Martha said unto him: I know well, he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. Iesus said unto her: I am the resurrection and the life. Whosoever believeth on me, Yea though he were dead, yet shall he live: and whosoever liveth, and believeth on me, shall never die. Believest thou this? She said unto him: yea lord: I believe that thou art Christ the son of God, which shall come into the world. And as soon as she had so said she went her way, and called Mary her sister secretly saying: The master is come and calleth for thee. She as soon as she heard that, arose quickly, and came unto him. Iesus was not yet come into the town: but was in the place where Martha met him. The jewes then which were with her in the house, and comforted her (when they saw Mary that she rose up hastily, and went out) followed her saying: She goeth unto the grave, to weep there. Then when Mary was come, where Iesus was and saw him she fell down at his feet, saying unto him: lord if thou hadst been here, my brother had not been dead. When Iesus saw her weep, and the jewes also weep, which came with her. He groaned in the spirit, and vexed himself and said: Where have ye laid him? They said unto him: lord come and see. And Iesus wept. Then said the jewes: Behold how he loved him. Some of them said: Could not he which opened the eyes of the blind, have made also, that this man should not have died? Iesus again groaned in himself came to the grave, it was a cave, and a stone laid on it.
Iesus said: Take ye away the stone. Martha (the sister of him that was dead) said unto him: lord by this time he stinketh. For he hath been dead four days. Iesus said unto her: Said I not unto thee, that if thou didst believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God. Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. Iesus lift up his eyes and said: Father I give thee thanks because that thou hast heard me, I knew well that thou hearest me always: but because of the people that stand by I said it, that they might believe, that thou hast sent me.
And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus come forth, and he that was dead, came forth bound hand and foot, with bonds after the manner as they were wonte to bind their dead with all. And his face was bound with a napkin. Iesus said unto them: loose him, and let him go. Then many of the jewes which came to Mary, and had seen the things which Iesus did, believed on him. But some of them went their ways to the pharisees, and told them what Iesus had done.
Then gathered the high priests and the pharisees a council and said: what do we? This man doeth many miracles. If we let him scape thus all men will believe on him. And the Romans shall come and take away our country and people. And one of them named Caiphas: which was the high priest that same year, said unto them: Ye perceive nothing at all nor yet consider that it is expedient for us, that one man die for the people, and not that all the people perish. This spake he not of himself: but being high priest that same year, prophesied he that Iesus should die for the people, and not for the people only: but that he should gather together in one the children of God which were scattered abroad. From that day kept they a counsel together for to put him to death.
Iesus therefore walked no more openly among the jewes: but went his way thence unto a country nigh to a wilderness into a city called Ephraim, and there haunted with his disciples. The jewes' ester was nigh at hand, and many went out of the country up to Ierusalem before the ester to purify themselves. Then sought they for Iesus, and spake between themselves as they stood in the temple: What think ye, seeing he cometh not to the feast. The high priests and pharisees had given a commandment that if any man knew where he were, he should shew it that they might take him.
The .xij. Chapter.
Then Iesus before six days of ester, came to Bethany where Lazarus (which was dead) was, whom Iesus raised from death. There they made him a supper, and Martha served: but Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him. Then took Mary a pound of ointment called nardus, perfect and precious, and anointed Iesus' feet, and wept his feet with her hair, and all the house smelled of the savour of the ointment. Then said one of his disciples named Iudas Iscarioth, Simon's son, which afterward betrayed him: why was not this ointment sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor? This said he, not that he cared for the poor: but because he was a thief, and kept the bag, and bare that which was given. Then said Iesus: Let her alone, against the day of my burying she kept it. The poor allways shall ye have with you, but me shall ye not allways have.
Much people of the jewes had knowledge that he was there. And they came not for Iesus' sake only, but that they might see Lazarus also whom he raised from death. The high priests therefore held a council that they might put Lazarus to death also, because that for his sake many of the jewes went away, and believed on Iesus.
On the morrow much people that were come to the feast (when they heard that Iesus should come to Ierusalem,) took branches of palm trees and went and met him, and cried: Hosanna, blessed is he that in the name of the lord cometh, king of Israhell. Iesus got a young ass and sat thereon, according to that which was written: fear not daughter of Sion: behold thy king cometh sitting on an asse's colt. These things understood not his disciples at the first: but when Iesus was glorified, then remembered they that such things were written of him, and that such things they had done unto him.
The people that was with him, when he called Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from death, bare record. Therefore met him the people, because they heard that he had done such a miracle. The pharisees therefore said among themselves: Ye see that we prevail nothing: lo all the world goeth away after him.
There were certain greeks among them, which came to pray at the feast, the same came to Philip which was of Bethsaida a city in Galile, and desired him saying: Sir we would fain see Iesus. Philip came and told Andrew. And again Andrew and Philip told Iesus. And Iesus answered them saying: the hour is come that the son of man must be glorified.
Verily verily I say unto you, except the wheat corn fall into the ground and die, it bideth alone. If it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. He that loveth his life shall destroy it: And he that hateth his life in this world, shall keep it unto life eternal. If any man minister unto me, let him follow me and where I am there shall also my minister be. And if any man minister unto me, him will my father honour.
Now is my soul troubled, and what shall I say? Father deliver me from this hour: but therefore came I unto this hour. Father glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, I have glorified it, and will glorify it again. Then said the people that stood by and heard, it thundereth. Other said: an angel spake to him. Iesus answered and said: this voice came not because of me: but for your sakes.
Now is the judgement of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out a doors. And I (if were lifted up from the earth,) will draw all men unto me. This said Iesus signifying what death he should die. The people answered him: We have heard of the law that Christ bideth ever: and how sayest thou then that the son of man must be lifted up? who is that son of man? Then Iesus said unto them: yet a little while is the light with you: walk while ye have light, lest the darkness come on you. He that walketh in the dark, wotteth not whither he goeth. While ye have light, believe on the light that ye may be the children of light.
These things spake Iesus and departed, and hid himself from them. And though he had done so many miracles before them, yet believed not they on him, that the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, that he spake. lord who shall believe our saying? And to whom is the arm of the lord declared? Therefore could they not believe, because that Esaias saith again: He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their hearts, that they should not see with their eyes, and understand with their hearts, and should be converted and I should heal them. Such things said Esaias when he saw his glory, and spake of him. Nevertheless among the chief rulers many believed on him, but because of the pharisees they would not be a known of it, lest they should be excommunicated. For they loved the praise that is given of men, more than the praise, that cometh of God.
Iesus cried and said: he that believeth on me believeth not on me, but on him that sent me. And he that seeth me, seeth him that sent me. I am come a light into the world that whosoever believeth on me should not bide in darkness, and if any man hear my words and believe not, I judge him not. For I came not to judge the world: but to save the world. He that putteth me away, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him. The words that I have spoken shall judge him in the last day. For I have not spoken of myself: but the father which sent me gave me a commandment what I should say, and what I should speak. And I know well that his commandment is life everlasting. Whatsoever I speak therefore, even as my father bade me, so I speak.
The .xiij. Chapter.
Before the feast of ester when Iesus knew that his hour was come, that he should depart out of this world unto the father. When he loved his which were in the world, unto the end he loved them. And when supper was ended, after that the devil had put in the heart of Iudas Iscariot Simon's son, to betray him. Iesus knowing that the father had given all things into his hands: And that he was come from God, and went to God, he rose from supper, and laid aside his upper garments, and took a towel, and gird himself. After that poured he water into a basin, and began to wash his disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel, wherewith he was gird.
Then came he to Simon Peter. And Peter said to him: lord shalt thou wash my feet? Iesus answered and said unto him: what I do thou wettest not now, thou shalt know here after. Peter said unto him: Thou shalt not wash my feet while the world standeth. Iesus answered him: if I wash not thy feet, thou shalt have no part with me. Simon Peter said unto him: lord not my feet only: but also my hands and my head. Iesus said to him: he that is washed, needeth not but to wash his feet, but is clean every whit. And ye are clean: but not all. For he knew his betrayer. Therefore said he: ye are not all clean.
After he had washed their feet, and received his clothes, and was set down again, he said unto them: wot ye what I have done to you? ye call me master and lord, and ye say well, for so am I. If I then your lord and master have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. Verily verily I say unto you, the servant is not greater than his master. Neither the messenger greater than he that sent him.
If ye understand these things, happy are ye if ye do them. I speak not of you all, I know whom I have chosen. But that the scripture be fulfilled: he that eateth bread with me, Hath lifted up his heel against me. Now tell I you before it come: that when it is come to pass ye might believe that I am he. Verily verily I say unto you. He that receiveth whomsoever I send, receiveth me. And he that receiveth me, receiveth him that sent me.
When Iesus had thus said, he was troubled in the spirit, and testified saying: verily verily I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. Then the disciples looked one on another doubting of whom he spake. There was one of his disciples which leaned on Iesus' bosom, whom Iesus loved. To him beckoned Simon Peter that he should ask who it was of whom he spake. He then as he leaned on Iesus' breast said unto him: lord who is it? Iesus answered, he it is to whom I give a sop, when I have dept it. And he wet a sop, and gave it to Iudas Iscarioth Simon's son. And after the sop Satan entered into him.
Then said Iesus unto him: that thou dost do quickly. That wist no man at the table, for what intent he spake unto him. Some of them thought, because Iudas had the bag, that Iesus had said unto him, buy those things that we have need of against the feast: or that he should give something to the poor. As soon then as he had received the sop, he went immediately out. And it was night. When he was gone out, Iesus said: now is the son of man glorified. And God is glorified by him. If God be glorified by him, God shall also glorify him, in himself: and shall straightway glorify him.
Dear children, yet a little while am I with you. Ye shall seek me, and as I said unto the jewes whither I go, thither can ye not come. Also to you say I now. A new commandment give I unto you, that ye love together, as I have loved you, that even so ye love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye shall have love one to another. Simon Peter said unto him: lord whither goest thou? Iesus answered him: whither I go thou canst not follow me now, thou shalt follow me afterwards. Peter said unto him lord why cannot I follow thee now? I will give my life for thy sake. Iesus answered him: Wilt thou give thy life for my sake? Verily verily I say unto thee, the cock shall not crow, till thou have denied me thrice.
The .xiiij. Chapter.
And he said unto his disciples: Let not your hearts be troubled, believe in God, and believe in me. In my father's house are many mansions. If it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. I will come again, and receive you even unto myself, that where I am, there may ye be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
Thomas said unto him: lord we know not whither thou goest. Also how is it possible for us to know the way? Iesus said unto him I am the way, the verity, and life. No man cometh unto the father, but by me. If ye had known me ye had known my father also. And now ye know him. And ye have seen him.
Philip said unto him: lord shew us thy father and it sufficeth us. Iesus said unto him: have I been so long time with you: and yet hast thou not known me? Philip, he that hath seen me, hath seen the father. And how sayest thou then: shew us the father? Believest thou not that I am in the father, and the father in me? The words that I speak unto you, I speak not of myself: but the father dwelling in me is he that doeth the works. Believe that I am in the father, and the father in me. At the least believe me for the very works' sake.
Verily verily I say unto you whosoever believeth on me, the works that I do, the same shall he do, and greater works then these shall he do, because I go unto my father. And whatsoever ye ask in my name, that will I do, that the father might be glorified by the son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name I will do it.
If ye love me keep my commandments, and I will pray the father, and he shall give you another comforter, that he may bide with you ever, which is the spirit of truth whom the world cannot receive, because the world seeth him not, neither knoweth him. But ye know him. For he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come unto you.
It is yet a little while and the world seeth me no more: but ye shall see me. For I live, and ye shall live. That day shall ye know that I am in my father, and my father in me, and I in you.
He that hath my commandments and keepeth them, the same is he that loveth me, and he that loveth me shall be loved of my father, and I will love him, and will shew mine own self unto him. Iudas said unto him (not Iudas Iscarioth) lord what is the cause that thou wilt shew thyself unto us, and not unto the world? Iesus answered and said unto him: if a man love me and will keep my sayings, my father also will love him, and we will come unto him, and will dwell with him. He that loveth me not, keepeth not my sayings. And the words which ye hear are not mine, but my father's, which sent me.
This have I spoken unto you being yet present with you. But that comforter which is the holy ghost (whom my father will send in my name) shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance whatsoever I have told you.
Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you. Not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your hearts be grieved, neither fear ye. Ye have heard how I said unto you: I go and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would verily rejoice, because I said, I go unto the father. For the father is greater than I. And now have I shewed you, before it come, that when it is come to pass, ye might believe.
Here after will I not talk many words unto you. For the chief ruler of this world cometh, and hath nought in me. But that the world may know that I love my father, And as the father gave me commandment, even so do I. Rise let us go hence.
The .xv. Chapter.
I am the true vine, and my father is an husbandman. Every branch that beareth not fruit in me, He will take away. And every branch that beareth fruit will he purge that it may bring more fruit. Now are ye clean, be that means of the words which I have spoken unto you. Bide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it bide in the vine: no more can ye except ye abide in me.
I am the vine, and ye are the branches. He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit. For without me can ye do nothing. If a man bide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered: and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they burneth. If ye bide in me, and my words also bide in you: ask what ye will, and it shall be given you. Here in is my father glorified, that ye bear much fruit, and be made my disciples.
As the father hath loved me, even so have I loved you. Continue in my love. If ye shall keep my commandments, ye shall bide in my love, even as I have kept my father's commandments, and bide in his love. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. This is my commandment, that ye love together as I have loved you. Greater love than this hath no man, than that a man bestow his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth call I you not servants: For the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth. But you have I called friends: For all things that I have heard of my father, I have opened to you.
Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you and ordained you that ye go, and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit remain, that whatsoever ye shall ask of my father in my name he should give it you.
This command I you, that ye love together. If the world hate you, ye know that he hated me before he hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own. Because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore hateth you the world. Remember the saying, that I said unto you: the servant is not greater than the lord. If they have persecuted me, so will they persecute you. If they have kept my saying, so will they keep yours.
But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they have not known him that sent me. If I had not come and spoken unto them, they should have no sin: but now have they nothing to cloak their sin with all. He that hateth me, hateth my father. If I had not done works among them which none other man did, they should be without sin. But now have they seen, and yet have hated both me and my father: Even that the saying might be fulfilled that is written in their law: they hated me without a cause. But when the comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the father, which is the spirit of verity, which proceedeth of the father, he shall testify of me. And ye shall bear witness also, because ye have been with me from the beginning.
The .xvj. Chapter.
These things have I said unto you because ye should not be hurt in your faith. They shall excommunicate you: yea the time shall come, that whosoever killeth you, will think that he doth God true service. And such things will they do unto you, because they have not known the father neither yet me. These things have I told you, that when that hour is come, ye might remember then, that I told you so. These things said I not unto you at the beginning, because I was present with you.
But now go I my way to him that sent me, and none of you asketh me: whither goest thou? but because I have said such things unto you, your hearts are full of sorrow. Nevertheless I tell you the truth it is expedient for you that I go away. For if I go not away, that comforter will not come unto you. But if I depart, I will send him unto you. And when he is come, he will rebuke the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgement. Of sin, because they believe not on me: Of righteousness, because I go to my father, and ye shall see me no more: And of judgement, because the chief ruler of this world, is judged all ready.
I have yet many things to say unto you: but ye cannot bear them away now. When he is once come (I mean the spirit of verity,) he will lead you into all truth. He shall not speak of himself: but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak, and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me, for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew unto you. All things that my father hath are mine. Therefore said I unto you that he shall take of mine and shew unto you.
After a while ye shall not see me, and again after a while ye shall see me: For I go to my father. Then said some of his disciples between themselves: what is this that he saith unto us, after a while ye shall not see me, and again after a while ye shall see me: and that I go to my father. They said therefore: what is this that he saith after a while? we cannot tell what he saith. Iesus perceived, that they would ask him, and said unto them: This is it that ye enquire of between yourselves, that I said, after a while ye shall not see me, and again after a while ye shall see me. Verily verily I say unto you: ye shall weep and lament, and the world shall rejoice. Ye shall sorrow: but your sorrow shall be turned to joy.
A woman when she travaileth hath sorrow, because her hour is come: but as soon as she is delivered of her child she remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is born into the world. And ye now are in sorrow: but I will see you again, and your hearts shall rejoice, and your joy shall no man take from you. And in that day shall ye ask me no question. Verily verily I say unto you, whatsoever ye shall ask the father in my name, he will give it you. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name. Ask and ye shall receive it: that your joy may be full.
These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs. The time will come when I shall no more speak to you in proverbs: but I shall shew you plainly from my father. At that day shall ye ask in mine name. And I say not unto you that I will speak unto my father for you. For my father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have believed that I came out from God. I went out from the father, and came into the world: and I leave the world again, and go to the father.
His disciples said unto him: lo now speakest thou plainly, and thou usest no proverb. Now know we that thou understandest all things, and needest not that any man should ask thee any question. Therefore believe we that thou camest from God. Iesus answered them: Now ye do believe. Behold the hour draweth nigh, and is already come, that ye shall be scattered every man his ways, and shall leave me alone. And yet am I not alone. For my father is with me. These words have I spoken unto you that in me ye might have peace. In the world shall ye have tribulation: but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.
The .xvij. Chapter.
These words spake Iesus and lift up his eyes to heaven, and said: father the hour is come glorify thy son that thy son may glorify thee. As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him. This is life eternal that they might know thee that only very God: and whom thou hast sent Iesus Christ.
I have glorified thee on the earth. I have finished the work which thou gavest me to do. And now glorify me thou father in thine own presence, with the glory which I had with thee yer the world was. I have declared thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world. Thine they were, and thou gavest them me, and they have kept thy sayings. Now have they known that all things whatsoever thou hast given me, are of thee. For I have given unto them the words which thou gavest me, and they have received them, and know surely that I came out from thee: and do believe that thou didst send me.
I pray for them. I pray not for the world: but for them which thou hast given me, for they are thine, and all mine are thine, and thine are mine, and I am glorified in them. And now am I no more in the world, but they are in the world, and I come to thee. Wholly father keep in thine own name them which thou hast given me, that they may be one as we are. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name. Those that thou gavest me, have I kept, and none of them is lost, but that lost child, that the scripture might be fulfilled.
Now come I to thee, and these words speak I in the world, that they might have my joy full in them. I have given them thy doctrine, and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I desire not that thou shouldest take them out of the world: but that thou keep them from evil. They are not of the world, as I am not of the world. Sanctify them in thy truth. {with thy trueth} Thy saying is verity. As thou didst sent me into the world, even so have I sent them into the world, And for their sakes sanctify I myself, that they also might be sanctified thorow the truth.
I pray not for them alone: but for them also which shall believe on me thorow their preaching, that they all may be one, as thou father art in me, and I in thee, that they may be also one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And that glory that thou gavest me, I have given them, that they may be one, as we are one. I am in them and thou art in me, that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
Father I will that they which thou hast given me, be with me where I am, that they may see my glory which thou hast given me. For thou lovedest me before the making of the world. O righteous father the very world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it, that the love wherewith thou hast loved me, be in them, and that I be in them.
The .xviij. Chapter.
When Iesus had spoken these words, he went forth with his disciples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden into the which he entered with his disciples.
(Iudas also which betrayed him knew the place, for Iesus oftentimes resorted thither with his disciples.) Iudas then after he had received a bond of men, and ministers of the high priests, and of the pharisees came thither with lanterns, and firebrands, and weapons. Then Iesus knowing all things that should come on him, went forth and said unto them: whom seek ye? They answered him: Iesus of Nazareth. Iesus said unto them: I am he.
Iudas also which betrayed him, stood with them. As soon as he had said unto them I am he, they went backwards and fell to the ground. And he asked them again: whom seek ye? They said: Iesus of Nazareth. Iesus answered, I said unto you, I am he. If ye seek me, let these go their way. That the saying might be fulfilled which he spake: of them which thou gavest have I not lost one.
Simon Peter had a sword, and drew him out, and smote the high priests servant, and cut off his right ear. The servant's name was Malchus. Then said Iesus unto Peter: put up thy sword into the sheath: shall I not drink of the cup which my father had given me? Then the company, and the Captain, and the ministers of the jewes, took Iesus and bound him, and led him away to Anna first: For he was father-in-law unto Caiphas, which was the high priest that same year. Caiphas was he that gave counsel to the jewes that it was expedient that one man should die for the people.
Simon Peter followed Iesus, and another disciple, that disciple was known of the high priest, and went in with Iesus into the palace of the high priest. But Peter stood at the door without. Then went out that other disciple which was known unto the high priest, and spake to the damsel that kept the door, and brought in Peter. Then said the damsel that kept the door unto Peter: Art not thou one of this man's disciples? He said: I am not. The servants and the ministers stood there, and had made a fire of coals. For it was cold, and they warmed themselves. Peter also stood among them and warmed himself.
The high priest asked Iesus of his disciples, and of his doctrine. Iesus answered him: I spake openly in the world. I ever taught in the synagogue and in the temple whither all the jewes resorted: and in secret have I said nothing: why askest thou me? Ask them which heard me what I said unto them. Behold they can tell what I said. When he had thus spoken, one of the ministers which stood by, smote Iesus on the face saying: Answerest thou the high priest so? Iesus answered him: If I have evil spoken, bear witness of the evil: if I have well spoken, why smitest thou me? Annas sent him bound unto Caiphas the high priest.
Simon Peter stood and warmed himself, and they said unto him: Art not thou also one of his disciples? He denied it, and said: I am not. One of the servants of the high priest (his cousin whose ear Peter smote off ) said unto him: did not I see thee in the garden with him? Peter denied it again: and immediately the cock crew. Then led they Iesus from Caiphas into the hall of judgement. It was in the morning, and they themselves went not into the judgement house lest they should be defiled, but that they might eat the Pascha. Pilate then went out unto them and said: What accusation bring ye against this man? They answered and said unto him: If he were not an evil doer, we would not have delivered him unto thee. Then said Pilate unto them: take him unto you, and judge him after your own law. The jewes said unto him. It is not lawful for us to put any man to death. That the words of Iesus might be fulfilled which he spake, signifying what death he should die.
Then Pilate entered into the judgement house again, and called Iesus, and said unto him: Art thou king of the jewes? Iesus answered: sayest thou that of thyself, or did other tell it thee of me? Pilate answered: Am I a jew? Thine own nation and high priests have delivered thee unto me. What hast thou done? Iesus answered: my kingdom is not of this world. If my kingdom were of this world then would my ministers surely fight, that I should not be delivered to the jewes, but now is my kingdom not from hence. Pilate said unto him: Art thou a king then? Iesus answered: Thou sayest that I am a king. For this cause was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. And all that are of the truth hear my voice. Pilate said unto him: what is truth? And when he had said that, he went out again unto the jewes, and said unto them: I find in him no cause at all. Ye have a custom among you, that I should deliver you one loose at ester. Will ye that I loose unto you the king of the jewes. Then cried they all again saying: Not him, but Barabas. Barabas was a robber.
The .xix. Chapter.
Then Pilate took Iesus and scourged him. And the soldiers wound a crown of thorns and put it on his head. And they did on him a purple garment, and said: hail king of the jewes. And they smote him on the face. Pilate went forth again, and said unto them: behold I bring him forth to you, that ye may know, that I find no fault in him. Then came Iesus forth wearing a crown of thorns and a robe of purple. And Pilate said unto them: Behold the man. When the high priests and ministers saw him, they cried saying: crucify him, crucify him. Pilate said unto them. Take ye him and crucify him: For I find no cause in him. The jewes answered him. We have a law, and by our law he ought to die: because he made himself the son of God.
When Pilate heard that saying, he was the more afraid, and went again into the judgement house, and said unto Iesus: whence art thou? Iesus gave him none answer. Then said Pilate unto him: Speakest thou not unto me? Knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to loose thee? Iesus answered: Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given unto thee from above. Therefore he that delivered me unto thee, is more in sin. And from thenceforth sought Pilate means to loose him: but the jewes cried saying: if thou let him go, thou art not Cesar's friend. Whosoever maketh himself a king, is against Cesar.
When Pilate heard that saying he brought Iesus forth, and sat down to give sentence, in a place called the pavement: But in the Hebrew tongue, Gabbatha. (It was the saboth even which falleth in the ester feast, and about the sixth hour) And he said unto the jewes: Behold your king. They cried, away with him, away with him, Crucify him. Pilate said unto them: Shall I crucify your king? The high priests answered: We have no king but Cesar. Then delivered he him unto them to be crucified.
And they took Iesus, and led him away. And he bare his cross, and went forth into a place called the place of dead men's skulls (which is named in hebrew, Golgotha) where they crucified him. And with him two other, on either side one, and Iesus in the midst. Pilate wrote his title, and put it on the cross: The writing was, Iesus of Nazareth, king of the jewes. This title read many of the jewes. For the place where Iesus was crucified, was nigh to the city. And it was written in hebrew, greek and latin. Then said the high priests of the jewes to Pilate: write not, king of the jewes, but that he said, I am king of the jewes. Pilate answered: what I have written, that have I written.
The soldiers, when they had crucified Iesus, took his garments and made four parts, to every soldier a part, and also his coat. The coat was without seam woven upon thorow and thorow. And they said one to another: Let us not divide it: but cast lots who shall have it. That the scripture might be fulfilled which saith. They parted my raiment among them, and on my coat did cast lots. And the soldiers did such things in deed.
There stood by the cross of Iesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. When Iesus saw his mother, and the disciple standing whom he loved, he said unto his mother: Woman behold thy son. Then said he to the disciple: behold thy mother. And from that hour the disciple took her for his own.
After that when Iesus perceived that all things were performed, that the scripture might be fulfilled: he said: I thirst. There stood a vessel full of vinegar by. They filled a sponge with vinegar, and wound it about with hyssop, and put it to his mouth. As soon as Iesus had received of the vinegar, he said: It is finished, and bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.
The jewes then because it was the saboth even that the bodies should not remain upon the cross on the saboth day (For that saboth day was an high day) besought Pilate that their legs might be broken and that they might be taken down. Then came the soldiers and brake the legs of the first, and of the other which was crucified with Iesus. When they came to Iesus and saw that he was dead already, they brake not his legs: but one of the soldiers with a spear, thrust him into the side, and forthwith came there out blood and water.
And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true. And he knoweth that he saith true that ye might believe also. These things were done that the scripture should be fulfilled: Ye shall not break a bone of him. And again another scripture saith: They shall look on him, whom they pierced.
After that, Ioseph of Arimathia (which was a disciple of Iesus: but secretly for fear of the jewes) besought Pilate that he might take down the body of Iesus. And Pilate gave him license. And there came also Nicodemus which at the beginning came to Iesus by night, and brought of myrrh and aloes mingled together about an hundred pound weight. Then took they the body of Iesu and wound it in linen clothes with those confections as the manner of the jewes is to bury. In the place where Iesus was crucified, was a garden, and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man laid. There laid they Iesus because of the jewes' saboth even, for the sepulchre was nigh at hand.
The .xx. Chapter.
The morrow after the saboth day came Mary Magdalene early when it was yet dark, unto the sepulchre, and saw the stone rolled away from the tomb. Then she ran, and came to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple whom Iesus loved, and said unto them: They have taken away the lord out of the tomb and we cannot tell where they have laid him. Peter went forth and that other disciple, and came unto the sepulchre. They ran both together, and that other disciple did outrun Peter, and came first to the sepulchre. And he stooped down and saw the linen clothes, yet went he not in. Then came Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and saw the linen clothes lie, and the napkin that was about his head not lying with the linen cloth, but wrapped together in a place by itself. Then went in also that other disciple which came first to the sepulchre, and he saw and believed. For as yet they knew not the scriptures, that he should rise again from death. And the disciples went away again unto their own home.
Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping: As she wept, she bowed herself into the sepulchre and saw two angels clothed in white sitting the one at the head, and the other at the feet, where they had laid the body of Iesus. They said unto her: woman why weepest thou? She said unto them: They have taken away my lord, and I wot not where they have laid him. When she had thus said, she turned herself back and saw Iesus standing, and knew not that it was Iesus. Iesus said unto her: woman why weepest thou? Whom seekest thou? She supposing that he had been the gardener, said unto him: Sir if thou have borne him hence tell me where thou hast laid him, that I will take him away. Iesus said unto her: Mary. She turned herself, and said unto him: Rabboni which is to say master. Iesus said unto her: touch me not, for I have not yet ascended to my father. But go to my brethren and say unto them, I ascend unto my father, and your father: my God and your god. Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the lord, and that he had spoken such things unto her.
The same day at night, which was the morrow after the saboth day, when the doors were shut (where the disciples were assembled to gether for fear of the jewes,) came Iesus and stood in the midst, and said to them: peace be with you. And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and feet, and his side. Then were the disciples glad when they saw the lord. He said unto them again: peace be with you. As my father sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said that, he blew on them, and said unto them: Receive the holy ghost. whosoevers sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them: And whosoevers sins ye retain, they are retained.
Thomas one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Iesus came. The other disciples said unto him: we have seen the lord. And he said unto them: except I see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger in the holes of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.
And after viij days again, his disciples were with in, and Thomas was with them. Iesus came when the doors were shut, and stood in the midst and said: peace be with you:
Than said he to Thomas: put in thy finger here, and see my hands, and put forth thy hand and thrust him into my side, and be not without faith: but believe. Thomas answered and said unto him: my lord, and my God. Iesus said unto him: Thomas, because thou hast seen me, therefore hast thou believed: Happy are they that have not seen, and yet believe.
And many other signs did Iesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book. These are written that ye might believe that Iesus is Christ the son of God. And that ye in believing ye might have life thorow his name.
The .xxj. Chapter.
After that Iesus shewed himself again at the sea of Tiberias. And on this wise shewed he himself. There were together Simon Peter and Thomas, which is called Didymus: and Nathanael of Cana a city of Galilee, and the sons of Zebedee, and two other of the disciples, Simon Peter said unto them: I go a fishing. They said unto him: we also will go with thee. They went their way and entered into a ship straightway, and that night caught they nothing. When the morning was now come, Iesus stood on the shore, Nevertheless the disciples knew not that it was Iesus. Iesus said unto them: Sirs, have ye any meat? They answered him no. And he said unto them: cast out your net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find. They cast out, and anon they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes. Then said the disciple whom Iesus loved unto Peter: It is the lord. When Simon Peter heard that it was the lord, he gird his mantle to him (for he was naked) and sprang into the sea. The other disciples came by ship: For they were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits, And they drew the net with fishes. As soon as they were come to land, they saw hot coals laid and fish laid thereon, and bread. Iesus said unto them: bring of the fishes which ye have now caught. Simon Peter stepped forth and drew the net to land full of great fishes, an hundred and .liij. And for all there were so many, yet was not the net broken. Iesus said unto them: come and dine. And none of the disciples durst ask him: what art thou? For they knew that it was the lord. Iesus then came and took bread, and gave them, and fish likewise. And this is now the third time that Iesus appeared to his disciples, after that he was risen again from death.
When they had dined, Iesus said to Simon Peter: Simon Ioanna, lovest thou me more than these? He said unto him: yea lord, thou knowest, that I love thee. He said unto him: feed my lambs. He said to him again the second time: Simon Ioanna, lovest thou me? He said unto him: yea lord thou knowest that I love thee. He said unto him: feed my sheep. He said unto him the third time: Simon Ioanna, lovest thou me? Peter sorrowed because he said to him the third time, lovest thou me, and said unto him: lord, thou knowest all things, thou knowest that I love thee. Iesus said unto him: feed my sheep.
Verily verily I say unto thee, when thou wast young, thou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither thou wouldest: but when thou art old, thou shalt stretch forth thy hands, and another shall gird thee, and lead thee whither thou wouldest not. That spake he signifying by what death he should glorify God.
And when he had said thus, he said to him: Follow me. Peter turned about, and saw that disciple whom Iesus loved following (which also leaned on his breast at supper) and said: lord which is he that shall betray thee? When Peter saw him, he said to Iesus: lord what shall he here do? Iesus said unto him: If I will have him to tarry till I come, what is that to thee? follow thou me. Then went this saying abroad among the brethren, that that disciple should not die. And Iesus said not to him, he shall not die: but if I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? The same disciple is he, which testifieth of these things, and wrote these things. And we know, that his testimony is true. There are also many other things which Iesus did: the which if they should be written every one, I suppose the world could not contain the books that should be written.
Here endeth the Gospell off Sainct Ihon.
The first Chapter.
In my first treatise (Dear friend Theophilus) I have written of all that Iesus began to do and teach, until the day in the which he was taken up, after that he thorow the holy ghost, had given commandments unto the Apostles, which he chose: to whom also he shewed himself alive, after his passion by many tokens, appearing unto them forty days, and spake of the kingdom of God, and gathered them together, and commanded them, that they should not depart from Ierusalem: but to wait for the promise of the father, whereof ye have heard of me. For Ihon baptised with water but ye shall be baptised with the holy ghost, and that within this few days.
When they were come together, they asked of him, saying: Master wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israhel? He said unto them: It is not for you to know the times, or the seasons which the father hath put in his own power: but ye shall receive power of the holy ghost which shall come on you. And ye shall be witnesses unto me in Ierusalem, and in all Iewery, and in Samary, and even unto the world's end.
And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld he was taken up, and a cloud received him up out of their sight. And as they fastened their eyes in heaven, as he went, lo two men stood by them in white clothing, which also said: ye men of Galile, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Iesus which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come, even as ye have seen him go into heaven.
Then returned they unto Ierusalem from mount Olivete, which is nigh to Ierusalem, containing a saboth day's journey. And when they were come in, they went up into a parlour, where abode both Peter and Iames, Ihon and Andrew, Philip and Thomas, Bartlemew and Matthew, Iames the son of Alpheus, and Simon Zelotes, and Iudas Iames' son. These all continued with one accord, in prayer, and supplication with the women, and Mary the mother of Iesu. And with his brethren.
And in those days Peter stood up in the midst of the disciples and said (The number of names were about an hundred and twenty) Ye men and brethren, this scripture must needs be fulfilled which the holy ghost thorow the mouth of David spake before of Iudas, which was guide to them that took Iesus. For he was now numbered with us and obtained fellowship in this ministration. And the same hath now possessed a plot of ground with the reward of iniquity. And when he was hanged, burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out. And it is known unto all the inhabiters of Ierusalem. Insomuch that that field is called in their mother tongue, Acheldema, that is to say the blood field.
It is written in the book of psalms: His habitation be void, and no man be dwelling therein: and his bishopricke let another take. Wherefore of these men which have companied with us (all the time that the lord Iesus went out and in among us, beginning at the baptism of Ihon unto that same day that he was taken up from us) must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.
And they appointed two, Ioseph called Barsabas (whose surname was Iustus) and Matthias. And they prayed saying: Thou lord which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether thou hast chosen of these two, that the one may take the room of this ministration, and apostleship from the which Iudas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. And they gave forth their lots, and the lot fell on Mathias. And he was counted with the eleven apostles.
The second Chapter.
When the fiftieth day was come, they were all with one accord gathered together in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as it had been the coming of a mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they sat. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues, as they had been fire, and it sat upon each of them: and they were all filled with the holy ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, even as the spirit gave them utterance.
There were dwelling at Ierusalem jewes, devout men, which were of all nations under heaven. When this was noised about, the multitude came together and were astonied, because that every man heard them speak his own tongue. They wondered all, and marvelled saying among themselves: Look, are not all these which speak of Galile? And how hear we every man his own tongue wherein we were born? Parthians, Medes, and Elamites and the inhabiters of Mesopotamia, of Iury, Capadocia, Ponthus, and of Asia, Phrigia, Pamphlia, and of Egypt, and of the parts of Libia, which is beside Syrene, And strangers of Rome, Iewes and Proselites, greeks and Arabians: We have heard them speak with our own tongues the great works of God. They were all amazed, and wondered saying one to another: what meaneth this? Other mocked them saying: They are full of new wine.
Peter stepped forth with the eleven, and lift up his voice, and said unto them: Ye men of Iewry, and all ye that inhabit Ierusalem: be this known unto you, and with your ears hear my words. These are not drunken, as ye wene: For it is yet but the third hour of the day: but this is that which was spoken by the prophet Ioel: It shall be in the last days (saith God) of my spirit I will pour out upon all flesh. And your sons, and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions. And your old men shall dream dreams. And on my servants, and on my hand maidens I will pour out of my spirit in those days, And they shall prophesy. And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and tokens in the earth beneath, blood and fire, and the vapour of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great, and notable day of the lord come. And the time shall come that whosoever shall call on the name of the lord, shall be saved. Ye men of Israhel, hear these words. Iesus of Nazareth, a man approved of God among you with miracles and wonders, and signs which God did by him in the midst of you, as ye yourselves know: him have ye taken by the hands of unrighteous persons, after he was delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, and have crucified and slain him, whom God hath raised up and lowsed the sorrows of death, because it was impossible that he should be holden of it. David speaketh of him: Aforehand, saw I God always before me: For he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved. Therefore did my heart rejoice, and my tongue was glad. Moreover also, my flesh shall rest in hope because thou shalt not leave my soul in hell, neither shalt suffer thy saint to see corruption. Thou hast shewed me the ways of life, Thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance.
Men and brethren, let me freely speak unto you of the patriarch David: For he is both dead and buried, and his sepulchre remaineth with us unto his day. Therefore since he was a prophet, and knew that God had sworn with an oath to him, that the fruit of his loins should sit on his seat: He saw before, and spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul should not be left in hell: neither his flesh should see corruption. This Iesus hath God raised up, whereof we all are witnesses.
Since now that he by the right hand of God exalted is, and hath received of the father the promise of the holy ghost, he hath shed forth that which ye now see and hear. For David is not ascended into heaven, but he said: The lord said to my lord sit on my right hand, until I make thy foes, thy foot stool. So therefore let all the house of Israhel know for a surety, that God hath made the same Iesus whom ye have crucified, lord and Christ.
When they heard this, they were pricked in their hearts, and said unto Peter, and unto the other apostles: Ye men and brethren, what shall we do? Peter said unto them: Repent and be baptised every one of you in the name of Iesus Christ, For the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the holy ghost. For the promise was made unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar, even as many as our lord God shall call. And with many other words bare he witness, and exhorted them saying: Save yourselves from this untoward generation. They that gladly received his preaching were baptised, And the same day, there were added unto them about a three thousand souls.
And they continued in the Apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayer. And fear came over every soul. And many wonders and signs were shewed by the Apostles. And all that believed gathered then together, and had all things common. And sold their possessions and goods, and departed them to all men, as every man had need. And they continued daily with one accord in the temple, and brake bread in every house, and ate their meat together with gladness, and singleness of heart praising God, and had favour with all the people, and the lord added to the congregation daily them that should be saved.
The .iij. Chapter.
Peter and Ihon went up together into the temple at the ninth hour of prayer: And there was a certain man halt from his mother's womb, whom they brought and laid at the gate of the temple called beautiful, to ask his alms of them that entered into the temple. When he saw Peter and Ihon, that they would into the temple, he desired to receive an alms, Peter fastened his eyes on him with Ihon and said: look on us, and he gave heed unto them, trusting to receive something of them. Then said Peter: Silver and gold have I none, such as I have give I thee. In the name of Iesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up. And immediately his feet and anklebones received strength, and he sprang, stood, and also walked, and entered with them into the temple walking, and leaping, and lauding God.
And all the people saw him walk and laud God. And they knew him, that it was he which sat and begged at the beautiful gate of the temple. And they wondered, and were sore astonied at that which had happened unto him. As the halt which was healed held Peter and Ihon, all the people ran amazed unto them in Solomon's hall.
When Peter saw that, he answered unto the people: Ye men of Israhell, why marvel ye at this? Or why look ye so steadfastly on us, as though by our own power, or holiness we had made this man go? God of Abraham, Isaac, and Iacob, the God of our fathers hath glorified his son Iesus, whom ye betrayed, and denied in the presence of Pilate, when he had judged him to be lowsed: but ye denied the holy and just, and desired that he should give you a murderer, and killed the lord of life whom God hath raised from death, of the which we are witnesses: And his name thorow the faith of his name hath made this man sound whom ye see and know. And the faith which is by him, hath to this man given this health, in the presence of you all.
And now brethren I wot well that thorow ignorance ye have done it, as did also your heads. But God which shewed before by the mouth of all his prophets that Christ should suffer, hath thuswise fulfilled it. Repent ye therefore and turn that your sins may be done away when the time of comfort cometh, which we shall have of the presence of the lord, and when God shall send him, which before was preached unto you, that is to wit Iesus Christ, which must heaven receive until the time that all things be restored again, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began.
For Moses said unto the fathers: A prophet shall your lord God raise up unto you, one of your brethren, like unto me, him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. For the time will come, that every soul which shall not hear that same prophet, shall be exiled from the people. Also all the prophets from Samuel, and thenceforth, as many as have spoken, have in likewise told of these days. Ye are the children of the prophets, and to you pertaineth the testament that God hath made unto our fathers saying to Abraham: Even in thy seed shall all the kindreds of the earth be blessed. First unto you hath God raised up his son Iesus, and him he hath sent to bless you, that every one of you should turn from his wickedness.
The .iiij. Chapter.
As they spake unto the people, the priests and the ruler of the temple, and the saduces came upon them, taking grievously that they taught the people and preached in the name of Iesus the resurrection from death. And they laid hands on them, and put them in hold until the next day. For it was now eventide. Many of them which heard the words believed, and the number of the men was about five thousand.
It chanced on the morrow that their rulers, and seniors, and scribes, as Annas the chief priest, and Caiaphas, and Ihon and Alexander, and as many as were of the kindred of the high priest, were gathered together at Ierusalem, and set them in the midst, and asked by what power, or in what name have ye done this sirs? Then Peter full of the holy ghost said unto them. Ye rulers of the people, and seniors of Israhel, if we this day are examined of the good deed done to the sick man by what means he is made whole: be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israhel, that in the name of Iesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, and whom God raised from death again, this man standeth here present before you whole. This is the stone cast aside of you builders which is set in the chief place of the corner. Neither is there health in any other. Nor yet also is there any other name given to men wherein we must be saved.
When they saw the boldness of Peter and Ihon, And knew that they were unlearned men and lay people, they marvelled, and they knew them, that they were with Iesu: Seeing also the man which was healed standing with them, they could not say against it, but commanded them to go aside out of the council, And communed among themselves saying: what shall we do to these men? For a manifest sign is done by them, and is openly known to all them that dwell in Ierusalem, and we cannot deny it: But that it be noised no farther among the people, let us threaten and charge them that they speak henceforth to no man in this name.
And they called them, and commanded them that in no wise they should speak or teach in the name of Iesu. But Peter and Ihon answered unto them and said: whether it be right in the sight of God to obey you more than God judge ye. For we cannot but speak that which we have seen and heard. So threatened they them and let them go, And found no thing how to punish them, because of the people: For all men lauded God for the miracle which was done. For the man was above forty year old, on whom this miracle of healing was shewed.
As soon as they were let go they came to their fellows, and shewed all that the high priests and seniors had said. When they heard that, with one mind they lift up their voices to God and said: lord, thou art God which hast made heaven and earth, the sea and all that in them is, which by the mouth of thy servant David hast said: Why did the heathen grudge, and the people imagine vain things. The kings of the earth stood up and the rulers came together against the lord, And against his Christ.
For of a truth against thy holy child Iesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod and also Pontius Pilate with the gentiles, and the people of Israhel, gathered themselves to gether for to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done. And now lord behold their threatenings, and grant unto thy servants with all confidence to speak thy word. So that thou stretch forth thy hand that healing, and signs, and wonders be done by the name of thy holy child Iesus. And as soon as they had prayed, the place moved where they were assembled together, and they were all filled with the holy ghost, and they spake the word of God boldly.
The multitude of them that believed, were of one heart, And of one soul. Also none of them said, that any thing of those which he possessed was his own: But had all things common. And with great power gave the Apostles witness of the resurrection of the lord Iesu. And great grace was with them all. Neither was there any among them that lacked. For as many as were possessors of lands or houses, sold them and brought the price of the things that were sold, and laid it down at the Apostles' feet. And distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.
And Ioses which was also called of the Apostles Barnabas (that is to say the son of consolation, being a Levite, and of the country of Cipers) had land, and sold it, and laid the price down at the Apostles' feet.
The .v. Chapter.
A certain man named Ananias with Saphira his wife sold a possession, and kept away part of the price (his wife also being of counsel) and brought a certain part, and laid it down at the Apostles' feet. Then said Peter: Ananias how is it that Satan hath filled thine heart, that thou shouldest lie unto the holy ghost, and keep away part of the price of thy livelihood: Pertained it not unto thee only? And after it was sold, was not the price in thine own power? How is it that thou hast conceived this thing in thine heart? Thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God. When Ananias heard these words, he fell down and gave up the ghost. And great fear came on all them that these things heard. And the young men rose up, and put him apart, and carried him out, and buried him. It fortuned as it were about the space of iij. hours after, that his wife came in ignorant of that which was done. Peter said unto her: Tell me, sold ye the land for so much? And she said: ye for so much. Peter said unto her: why have ye agreed together, to tempt the spirit of the lord? Lo, the feet of them which have buried thy husband are at the door, and shall carry thee out, Then she fell down straightway at his feet and yielded up the ghost. The young men came in and found her dead, and carried her out and buried her by her husband. And great fear came on all the congregation. And on as many as heard it.
By the hands of the Apostles were many signs and wonders shewed among the people. And they were all together with one accord in Solomon's hall. And of other durst no man join himself to them: but the people magnified them. The number of them that believed in the lord both of men and women grew more and more insomuch that they brought their sick into the streets, and laid them on beds and pallets, that at the leastway the shadow of Peter when he came by, might shadow some of them. There came also a multitude out of the cities round about unto Ierusalem, bringing with them sick and them which were vexed with unclean spirits. And they were healed every one.
The chief priest rose up and they that were with him (which is the sect of the Saduces) and were full of indignation, and laid hands on the apostles, and put them in the common prison: but the angel of the lord by night opened the prison door, and brought them forth, and said: go step forth, and speak in the temple to the people all the words of this life. When they heard that, they entered into the temple early in the morning and taught.
The chief priest came and they that were with him and called a council together, and all the seniors of the children of Israhel, and sent to the prison to fetch them. When the ministers came and found them not in the prison, they came again and told saying: The prison found we shut with all diligence, and the keepers standing without before the doors: but when we had opened we found no man within. When the chief priest of all and the ruler of the temple, and the high priests heard these things, they doubted of them, whereunto this would grow.
Then came one and shewed them: Lo the men that ye put in prison stand in the temple, and preach to the people. Then went the ruler of the temple with ministers, and brought them without violence. For they feared the people lest they should have been stoned. And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the chief priest asked them saying: did not we straitly command you that ye should not teach in this name? and behold ye have filled Ierusalem with your doctrine, and ye intend to bring this man's blood upon us.
Peter and the other Apostles answered, and said: We ought more to obey God than men. The God of our fathers raised up Iesus, whom ye slew and hanged on tree. Him being a ruler and a saviour hath God exalted with his right hand, for to give repentance to Israhell and forgiveness of sins. And we are his records as concerning these things: and also the holy ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him. When they heard that they clave asunder, and sought means to slay them. Then stood there up one in the council, a pharisee named Gamaliel, a doctor of law, had in authority among the people and commanded to put the Apostles aside a little space, and said unto them: Men of Israhell take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men. Before these days rose up one Theudas boasting himself, to whom resorted a number of men, about a four hundred, which was slain, and they all which believed him were scattered abroad, and brought to nought. After this man arose there up one Iudas of Galile, in the time when tribute began, and drew away much people after him. He also perished: and all even as many as harkened to him are scattered a broad.
And now I say unto you: refrain yourselves from these men, let them alone: For if this counsel or work be of men, it will come to nought: but and if it be of God, ye cannot destroy it, lest haply ye be found to strive against God. And to him they agreed, and called the apostles, and beat them, and commanded that they should not speak in the name of Iesu, and let them go.
And they departed from the council rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer rebuke for his name. And daily in the temple, and in every house they ceased not, teaching and preaching Iesus Christ.
The .vj. Chapter.
In those days as the number of the disciples grew, there arose a grudge among the greeks against the Hebrews, because their widows were despised in the daily ministration. Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples together and said: it is not meet that we should leave the word of God and serve at the tables, wherefore brethren look ye out among you seven men of honest report, and full of the holy ghost and wisdom, which we may appoint to this needful business: but we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministration of the word. And the saying pleased the whole multitude well. And they chose Stephen a man full of faith, and of the holy ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nichanor, and Timon, and Permenas, and Nicholas a proselite of Antioch, which they set before the apostles, and they prayed and laid their hands on them.
And the word of God increased, and the number of the disciples multiplied in Ierusalem greatly. And a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith. Stephen full of faith and power did great wonders, and miracles among the people. Then there arose certain of the Synagogue, which are called libertines, and Sirenens, and Alexandrians, and Cilicilians, and Asians, and disputed with Steven. And they could not resist the wisdom, and the spirit, with which he spake. Then sent they in men which said: we have heard him speak blasphemous words against Moses, and against God, and they moved the people, and the seniors, and the scribes: and they came upon him and caught him, and brought him to the council, and brought forth false witnesses which said: This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place and the law, for we heard him say: This Iesus of Nazareth shall destroy this place, and shall change the ordinances which Moses gave unto us. And all that sat in the council looked steadfastly on him, and saw his face as it had been the face of an angel.
The .vij. Chapter.
Then said the chief priest: is it even so? And he said: ye men, brethren, and fathers, hearken to. The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham while he was yet in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran, and said unto him: come out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew unto thee. Then came he out of the land of Caldey, and dwelt in Charran. And after that as soon as his father was dead, he brought him into this land, wherein ye now dwell, and he gave him none inheritance in it, no not one foot of ground. And promised that he would give it to him and to his seed after him, when as yet he had no child.
God verily spake on this wise, thy seed shall be a dweller in a strange land, and they shall put them in bondage, and entreat them evil .iiij. C. years. And the nation to whom they shall be in bondage, will I judge (said God) and after that shall they come forth, and serve me in this place. And gave him the testament of circumcision, and he begat Isaac, and circumcised him the viij. day, and Isaac begat Iacob, and Iacob the twelve patriarchs.
And the patriarchs having indignation sold Ioseph into Egypt, and God was with him, and delivered him out of all his adversities, and gave him favour and wisdom in the sight of Pharao king of Egypt, And Pharao made him governor over Egypt, and over all his household.
Then came there a dearth over all the land of Egypt, and Canaan, and great affliction, that our fathers found no sustenance. When Iacob heard that there was corn in Egypt, he sent our fathers first, and when he had sent them the second time, Ioseph was known of his brethren, and Ioseph's kindred was made known unto Pharao. Then sent Ioseph and caused his father to be brought and all his kin, three score and xv. souls. And Iacob descended into Egypt, and died both he and our fathers, and were translated into Sichem, and were put in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for money of the sons of Emor, at Sichem.
When the time of the promise drew nigh (which God had promised with an oath to Abraham) the people grew and multiplied in Egypt till another king arose which knew not of Ioseph. The same dealt subtly with our kindred, and evil intreated our fathers, and made them to cast out their children, that they should not remain alive. The same time was Moses born, and was a proper child in the sight of God, which was nourished up in his father's house three months. When he was cast out Pharaoh's daughter took him up, and nourished him up for her own son. And Moses was learned in all manner wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in deeds and in words.
When he was full forty year old, it came into his heart to visit his brethren, the children of Israhel. And when he saw one of them suffer wrong, he defended him, and avenged his quarrel that had the harm done to him, and smote the Egyptian. For he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by his hands should give them health: but they understood not.
And the next day he shewed himself unto them as they strove, and would have set them at one again saying: Sirs ye are brethren why hurt ye one another? But he that did his neighbour wrong, thrust him away saying: Who made thee a ruler and a judge among us? What wilt thou kill me, as thou didst the Egyptian yesterday? Then fled Moses at that word, and was a stranger in the land of Madian, Where he begat two sons.
When xl. years were expired, there appeared to him in the wilderness of mount Sina the angel of the lord in a flame of fire in a bush. When Moses saw it he wondered at the sight, and as he drew near to behold it. And the voice of the lord came unto him: I am the God of thy fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Iacob. Moses trembled and durst not behold. Then said the lord to him put off thy shoes from thy feet, for the place where thou standest is holy ground. I have perfectly seen the affliction of my people which is in Egypt, and I have heard their groaning, and am come down to deliver them. And now come and I will send thee into Egypt.
The same Moses whom they forsook saying: who made the a ruler and a judge: God sent both a ruler and a deliverer, by the hands of the angel which appeared to him in the bush. This man brought them out shewing wonders and signs in Egypt, and in the reed sea, and in the wilderness xl. years. This is that Moses which said unto the children of Israhell: A prophet shall your lord God raise up unto you of your brethren like unto me, him shall ye hear.
This is he that was in the congregation, in the wilderness with the angel which spake to him in the mount Sina, and with our fathers. This man received the word of life to give unto us, to whom our fathers would not obey: But cast it from them, and in their hearts turned back again into Egypt, saying unto Aaron: Make us gods to go before us. For we wot not what is become of this Moses that brought us out of the land of Egypt. And they made a calf in those days, and offered sacrifice unto the image, and rejoiced in the works of their own hands.
Then God turned himself, and gave them up, that they should worship the stars of the sky, as it is written in the book of the prophets: O ye of the house of Israhell: have ye given unto me offerings or sacrifice, by the space of xl. years in the wilderness? And ye took unto you the tabernacle of Moloch, and the star of your god Remphan, figures which ye made to worship them. And I will translate you beyond Babylon.
Our fathers had the tabernacle of testimony in the wilderness, as he had appointed them speaking unto Moses, that he should make it according to the fashion that he had seen, which tabernacle our fathers received, and brought it in with Iosue into the possession of the gentiles, which gentiles God drave out before the face of our fathers unto the time of David, which found favour before God, and desired that he might find a tabernacle for the God of Iacob. And Solomon built him an house.
But he that is highest of all dwelleth not in temples made with hands, as saith the prophet: Heaven is my seat, and earth is my foot stool, what house will ye build for me saith the lord? or what resting place? hath not my hand made all these things? Ye stiffnecked and of uncircumcised hearts and ears: ye have allways resisted the holy ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? And they have slain them, which shewed before of the coming of that Just, whom ye have betrayed and murdered. And ye also have received a law by the ordinance of angels, and have not kept it.
When they heard these things, their hearts clave asunder, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. He being full of the holy ghost looked up with his eyes into heaven and saw the majesty of God, and Iesus standing on the right hand of God, and said: lo, I see the heavens open, and the son of man stand on the right hand of God. Then they gave a shout with a loud voice, and stopped their ears and all ran upon him at once, and cast him out of the city, and stoned him. And the witnesses laid down their clothes at a young man's feet named Saul. And they stoned Steven calling on and saying: lord Iesu receive my spirit. And he kneeled down and cried with a loud voice: lord impute not this sin unto them, For they wote not what they do. And when he had thus spoken he fell asleep.
The .viij. Chapter.
Saul had pleasure in his death. At that time there was a great persecution against the congregation which was at Ierusalem, and they were all scattered abroad thorowout the regions of Iury and Samaria, except the apostles. Then devout men dressed Steven, and made great lamentation over him. Saul made havoc of the congregation entering into every house, and drew out both man and woman, and thrust them into prison. They that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word. Then came Philip into a city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. And the people gave heed unto those things which Philip spake with one accord, in that they heard and saw the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits crying with loud voice, came out of many which were possessed of them. Many taken with palsies, and many that halted were healed. And there was great joy in that city. And there was a certain man called Simon, which beforetime in the same city, used witchcraft and bewitched the people, saying that he was a man that could do great things. Whom they regarded, from the least to the greatest saying: this is that power of God, which is called great. Him they set much by, because of long time with sorcery he had deluded their wits. As soon as they believed Philips preaching of the kingdom of God and of the name of Iesu Christ, they were baptised both men and women. Then Simon himself believed and was baptised. And continued with Philip, and wondered beholding the miracles and signs, which were shewed.
When the Apostles which were at Ierusalem heard say that Samaria had received the word of God: they sent unto them Peter and Ihon, which when they were come, prayed for them, that they might receive the holy ghost. For as yet he was come on none of them: But they were baptised only in the name of Christ Iesu. Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the holy ghost.
When Simon saw that thorow laying on of the Apostles' hands on them, the holy ghost was given: he offered them money saying: Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the holy ghost. Then said Peter unto him: Perish thou and thy money together. For thou wenest that the gift of God may be obtained with money? thou hast neither part nor fellowship in this business. For thy heart is not right in the sight of God. Repent therefore of this thy wickedness, and pray God that the thought of thine heart may be forgiven thee. For I perceive that thou art full of bitter gall, and wrapped in iniquity.
Then answered Simon and said: Pray ye to the lord for me that none of these things which ye have spoken fall on me. And they when they had testified, and preached the word of the lord returned to Ierusalem and preached the gospel in many cities of the Samaritans.
Then the angel of the lord spake unto Philip saying: Arise and go towards midday unto the way which leadeth from Ierusalem unto Gaza, which is in the desert. He arose and went on, and behold a man of Ethiopia which was gelded, and of great authority with Candace queen of the Ethiophians, which had the rule of all her treasure, came to Ierusalem for to pray. As he returned home again sitting in his chariot he read Esay the prophet.
Then the spirit said unto Philip: Go near and join thyself to yonder chariot. Philip ran to him, and heard him read Esay the prophet and said: Understandest thou what thou readest? And he said: how can I, except I had a guide? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him. The tenor of the scripture which he read was this. He was led as a sheep to be slain: And like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth, in that he submitted himself, his judgement was exalted: who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. The gelded man answered Philip and said: I pray thee of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself? or of some other man?
Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Iesus. And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water, and the gelded man said: See here is water, what shall let me to be baptised? Philip said unto him: If thou believe with all thine heart, thou mayst. He answered saying: I believe that Iesus Christ is the son of God. And commanded the chariot to stand still. And they went down both into the water: both Philip and also the gelded man. And he baptised him. As soon as they were come out of the water the spirit of the lord caught away Philip. And the gelded man saw him no more. And he went on his way rejoicing: but Philip was found at Azotus. And he walked thorow out the country preaching in their cities, till he came to Cesarea.
The .ix. Chapter.
Saul yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the lord, went unto the high priest, and desired of him letters to Damascus, to the synagogues: that if he found any of this way whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Ierusalem. As he went on his journey, it fortuned that he drew nigh to Damascus, and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven. And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying to him: Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said what art thou lord? The lord said, I am Iesus whom thou persecutest, it shall be hard for thee to kick against the prick. He both trembling and astonied said: lord what wilt thou have me to do? And the lord said unto him: Arise and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou shalt do.
The men which accompanied him on his way stood amazed, for they heard a voice, but saw no man. Saul arose from the earth, And when he had opened his eyes he saw no man. Then led they him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. And he was iij. days without sight, and neither ate nor drank.
There was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias, to him said the lord in a vision: Ananias. And he said: I am here lord. And the lord said to him: arise and go into the street which is called straight, and seek in the house of Iudas after one called Saul of the city of Tharsus. For behold he prayeth, And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in unto him, And putting his hands on him, that he might receive his sight.
Ananias answered: lord I have heard by many of this man, how much hurt he hath done to thy saints at Ierusalem: and in this place he hath authority of the high priests to bind all that call on thy name. The lord said unto him: Go thy ways: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the gentiles, and kings and the children of Israhel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake.
Ananias went his way and entered into the house and put his hands on him and said: brother Saul, the lord that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight and be filled with the holy ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales and he received his sight, and arose and was baptised. And received meat and was comforted.
Then was Saul a certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the Synagogues how that he was the son of God. All that heard him were amazed and said: is not this he that spoiled them which called on this name in Ierusalem? And came hither for the intent that he should bring them bound unto the high priests? Saul increased in strength, And confounded the jews which dwelt at Damascus affirming that this was very Christ.
After a good while, the jews took counsel among themselves to kill him. But their layings wait were known of Saul. And they watched at the gates day and night to kill him. Then the disciples took him by night, and put him thorow the wall and let him down in a basket.
When Saul came to Ierusalem he assayed to couple himself with the disciples, and they were all afraid of him and believed not that he was a disciple. But Barnabas took him and brought him to the apostles and told them how he had seen the lord in the way and had spoken with him: and how he had done boldly at Damascus in the name of Iesu, And he had his conversation with them at Ierusalem, and quit himself boldly in the name of the lord Iesu. And he spake and disputed with the greeks and they went about to slay him. When the brethren knew of that, they brought him to Cesarea, and sent him forth to Tharsus. Then had the congregations rest thorowout all jewry and Galile and Samary, and were edified, and walked in the fear of the lord, And multiplied by the comfort of the holy ghost.
It chanced that as Peter walked throughout all quarters, he came to the saints which dwelt at Lydda. And there he found a certain man named Eneas, which had kept his bed viij. years sick of the palsy. Then said Peter unto him: Eneas, the lord Iesus Christ make thee whole: Arise and make thy bed. And he arose immediately. And all that dwelt at Lydda and Assaron, saw him, and turned to the lord.
There was at Ioppa a certain woman (which was a disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas) she was full of good works and alms deeds, which she did. It chanced in those days that she was sick and died. When they had washed her and laid her in a chamber: Because Lydda was nigh to Ioppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him, desiring him that he would not be grieved to come unto them.
Peter arose and came with them: when he was come, they brought him into the chamber, and all the widows stood round about him weeping and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made while she was with them. Peter put them all forth and kneeled down and prayed and turned him to the body, and said: Tabitha, arise. She opened her eyes, and when she saw Peter she sat up. And he gave her his hand and lift her up, and called the saints and widows and shewed her alive. And it was known thorow out all Ioppa, and many believed on the lord. And it fortuned that he tarried many days in Ioppa with one Simon a tanner.
The .x. Chapter.
There was a certain man in Cesarea called Cornelius, a captain of the soldiers of Italy, a devout man, and one that feared God with all his household, which gave m