49. I am come to send fire &c.] See Matt. x. 34. I am come to publish that doctrine which will kindle great contentions in the world; yet so profitable is it to the world, that I wish it had already taken place, although attended with this disagreeable consequence. "What will I, if it be;" a phrase that signifies, I wish that it were, &c. Dr. Whitby, Bp. Pearce. Anno DOMINI 33. 60.—I have a baptism] See note at Matt. xx. 22. I Myself must undergo the first effects of the persecution which will ensue, in suffering a cruel and ignominious death: and I am uneasy and straitened in My own mind with an earnest desire of having this great work finished. Dr. S. Clarke. 66.—ye do not discern this time?] Ye do not, from the predictions of the ancient Prophets, and from the present circumstances of things compared together, know the times and Person of the Messiah? Dr. S. Clarke. 67. Yes, and why even of yourselves &c.] Nay, though ye had none of these tokens to assist and direct you, why can ye not, even from your own consciences, and by the reason and equity of things, learn to judge what is fit and right? Dr. S. Clarke.