[343]. John i. 29. For an example of the use of the word “world” to denote the Gentiles, see Rom. xi. 12-15; where St. Paul, speaking of the rejection of the Messiah by the Jews, declares that it is only temporary; and as it has given occasion for the adoption of the Gentiles, so will this lead, by ultimate reaction, to the re-admission of Israel; a consummation in which the Gentiles should rejoice without boasting or highmindedness. “If,” he says, “the fall of them (the Israelites) be the riches of the world (the Gentiles), and the diminishing of them, the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their fulness! For I speak to you, Gentiles, inasmuch as I am the apostle of the Gentiles, I magnify my office; if, by any means, I may provoke to emulation them which are my flesh (the Jews,) and save some of them; for if the casting away of them be the reconciling of the world, what shall the receiving of them be but life from the dead?”
[344]. Acts xx. 28. It is hardly necessary to say, that the reading of our common version “church of God” wants the support of the best authorities; and that with the general consent of the most competent critics, Griesbach reads “church of the Lord.” See [Note C].
[345]. 1 Pet. i. 18, 19.
[346]. 1 Pet. ii. 23-25.
[347]. 1 Pet. iii. 17; iv. 3.
[348]. 2 Cor. v. 21.
[349]. 1 Cor. v. 7.
[350]. Rom. iii. 22-26.
[351]. 1 John iv. 2.
[352]. 1 John i. 7.