For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!
Ver. 16. I have nothing to glory of] My glorying is, that I preach it gratis, and thereby stop an open mouth, 2 Corinthians 12:16,18, give them the lie that falsely accuse me that I make a prize of you.
Yea, woe is unto me] It was death for the high priest to enter the tabernacle without his bells. Preach, man, preach; thou wilt be damned else, said one to his friend. Be instant, or stand over the work in season, out of season, επιστηθι. See Jacob's diligence,Genesis 31:40. And Paul's, Acts 20:20,28, &c., which one rightly calleth St Paul's trumpet, the voice whereof may be to every minister, like that trumpet in Mount Sinai, that hath both clangorem et horrorem: or as Samuel's message, making Eli's two ears to tingle and his heart to tremble. (Barlow.) Let him give good heed to it, and then say with the civilian (Ulpian), Perquam durum est: sed ita lex scripta est. Hard or not hard it must be done, or I am utterly undone. Preach I must, or perish.