16 The term ierourgew, which we have translated as above, is one whose signification is disputed. It occurs once in the New Testament (Rom. xv. 16) where it is translated in our English version simply "ministering." Etymologically, it means "to act as a priest," and we have in our translation followed Hesychius (Cent. iv.), who explains it as meaning "to offer sacrifice." [The whole passage in the Epistle to the Romans, where this word occurs may be compared (original Greek) with Mal. i. 11, Heb. v. 1, etc.]
17 Specifically, assemblies for the celebration of the Lord's Supper.
23 Prov. xv. 27 (after LXX. : xvi. 6 in English version)
24 1 Cor. i. 31; 2 Cor. x. 17.
27 Comp. Epistle to the Antiochians, chap. xii.
2 Literally, "to your brother-loving spiritual love according to God."
3 Literally, "course in Christ."
4 1 Cor. i. 10; Phil. ii. 2, iii. 16.
8 Literally, "which is given unto the death of the Lord."
15 i.e., "Advocate" or "Comforter;" comp. John xiv. 16.
26 [This is the idea worked out by St. Bernard. See my note (supra) suffixed to the Syriac Epistle to Ephesians.]
27 The various Gnostic sects are here referred to, who held that matter was essentially evil, and therefore denied the reality of our Lord's incarnation.
28 The ms. has mageiaj, "of magic;" we have followed the emendation proposed by Faber.
29 Literally, "heretical in respect to phantasy."