In the text, there are the following things, to which your attention must be directed:—The information which Christ gives to the people concerning the expiration of the season, which was then coming to an end. The time is fulfilled.
The apostle Paul mentions this season, on two different occasions, in the words that follow: 'But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law.' And again: 'That in the dispensation of the fullness of times, he might gather together in one, all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and on earth, even in him.'
This time, as it is mentioned in the text, seems to have a respect to that season, as it should bring to an end that system which existed before it, and establish in its stead the Gospel dispensation.
In the former quotation from Paul, this time is considered as the season of those glorious transactions, in Christ's incarnation, obedience and death, by which the former system was set aside, and the meritorious foundation was laid for supporting the economy that should be introduced. The time mentioned in the latter quotation from Paul, contemplates the same season in its effects.
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