, a learned converted Jew, of Metz in Lorrain, was originally educated
, a learned converted Jew,
of Metz in Lorrain, was originally educated in that religion, the rites and customs of which, it appears by his
writings, he well understood; but by perusing the prophetical parts of the Old Testament, and comparing them
with the New, he became convinced that Christ was the
true Messiah, and embraced Christianity, according to the
Roman Catholic form. His abilities recommended him to
considerable promotion, and to the degree of D. D. from
one of the French universities. In 1672 he published a
“Commentary on the Gospels of St. Mark and St. Luke,
”
in which, besides a literal exposition of the text, collected
from the monuments of the ancients, he took an opportunity to defend the doctrines of the church of Rome, which
so advanced his reputation, that he was requested to write
against the protestants, and much was expected from a
man of his learning and an able reasoner. This, however,
only led to another change; for, in examining the controversies between the papists and protestants, he became
satisfied that truth was on the side of the latter. France
was of course no longer a safe residence, and he immediately went to Holland, abjured the errors of popery, and
soon after came over to England. Here he became acquainted with Stillingfleet, Sharp, Tillotson, Patrick, Lloyd,
and other eminent English divines, and particularly with
Compton bishop of London. Under this patronage, he was
admitted into orders in the English church, and became
chaplain to a nobleman, and tutor to his children.