13. 9. Deut. 5 21. Q. Is any man able perfectly to keep the Commandments of God A. No meer man since the fall is able in this life perfectly to keep the Commandments of God y Eccl. 7. 20. 1 Joh. 1. 8. 10. Gal. 5. 17 but doth dayly break them in thought word deed z Gen. 6. 5. 8. 21 Rom. 3 9. to 21. â—am 3. 2. to 13 Q. Are all transgressioâ—s of the Law equally heinous A. Some sins in themselves and by reason of several aggravations are more heinous in the sight of God then others a Ezâ—k 8 6 13. 15. 1 Joh. 5. 16. Psa 78 17 32 56. Q. What doth every sin deserve A. Every sin deserveth Gods wrath and curse both in this life and that which is to come b Eph â— 6 Gal. 3. 10 Iam. 3 39 Mat. 25. 41 Q. What doth God require of us that we may escape his wrath and curse due to us for sin A. To escape the wrath and curse of God due to us for sin God requireth of us Faith in Jesus Christ Repentance unto life c Act. 20. 21 with the diligent use of all the outward means wherby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of Redemption d Pro. 2. 1 to 6. 8. 33. to the end Isal 59. 3 Q. What is Faith in Jesus Christ A. Faith in Jesus Christ is a saving grace e Heb 10 39 whereby we receive and rest upon him alone for Salvation as he is offered to us in the Gospel f Joh. 1. 12 Isa 26. 3 4 Phil. 3. 9 Gal. 2. 16 Q. What is repentance unto life A. Repentance unto life is a saving grace g Act. 11 18 whereby a sinner out of a true sense of his sin h Acts 2 37 38 and apprehension of the mercy of God in Christ i Joel 2. 12 Jer. 3. 22 doth with grief and hatred of his sin turn from it unto God k Jer. 31 18 19 Eze. 36 31 with full purpose of and endeavor after new obedience l 1 Cor. 7 11. Isa 1 16 17 Q. What are the outward means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of Redemption A. The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of Redemption are his Ordinances especially the Word Sacraments and Prayer all which are made effectual to the Elect for Salvation m Mat. 28 19 20 Acts 2. 42 46 47 Q. How is the Word made effectual to Salvation A. The Spirit of God maketh the Reading but especially the Preaching of the Word an effectual means of convincing and converting sinners and of building them up in holiness and comfort through faith unto salvation n Neh 8 8 1 Cor. 14 24 25 Act. 26. 18 Psal 19 8 Act. 20 32 Rom. 15 4 2 Tim. 3. 15 16 17. Ro. 10. 13 14 15 16 17. 1 16 Q. How is the Word to be read and heard that it may become effectual to salvation A. That the Word may become effectual to salvation we must attend thereunto with diligence o Prov. 8. 34. preparation p 1 Pet. 2 1 2. and prayer q Psa 119. 18. receive it with faith and love r Heb. 4 2 2 Thes 2. 10. lay it up in our hearts s Psa 119 11. and practise it in our lives t Luk. 8. 15. Jam. 1. 25 Q. How do the Sacraments become effectual means of salvation A. The Sacraments become effectual means of salvation not from any vertue in them or in him that doth administer them but only by the blessing of Christ u 1 Pet. 3. 21. Mat 3. 11. 1 Cor. 3. 6 7 and the working of his Spirit in them that by faith receive them w 1 Cor. 12 23 Q. What is a Sacrament A. A Sacrament is an holy Ordinance instituted by Christ wherein by sensible Signs Christ and the benefits of the New Covenant are represented sealed and applyed to Beleevers x Gen. 17 7 10 Exod. 12. 1 Cor. 11 23 26 Q. Which are the Sacraments of the New Testament A. The Sacraments of the New Testament are Baptism y Mat. 28 19 and the Lords Supper z Mat. 26 26 27 28 Q. VVhat is Baptism A. Baptism is a Sacrament wherein the Washing with Water in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost a Mat. 28 19 doth signifie and seal our ingrafting into Christ and partaking of the benefits of the Covenant of Grace and our engagement to be the Lords b Ro 6 24 Gal. 2 27 Q. To whom is Baptism to be administred A. Baptism is not to be administred to any that are out of the Visible Church till they profess their faith in Christ and obedience to him c Act. 8 36 37. and 2 38 but the infants of such as are Members of the Visible Church are to be baptized d Acts 2 38 39 Gen. 17 10. with Col. 2 11 12. 1 Cor. 7 14 Q VVhat is the Lords Supper A The Lords Supper is a Sacrament wherein by giving and receiving Bread and Wine according to Christs appointment his death is shewed forth and the worthy receivers are not after a corporal and carnal manner but by faith made partakers of his Body and Blood with all his benefits to their spiritual nourishment and growth in grace e 1 Cor. 11 23 24 25 26. 10 16 Q. What is required to the worthy receiving of the Lords Supper A. It is required of them that would worthily partake of the Lords Supper that they examine themselves of their Knowledg to discern the Lords Body f 1 Cor. 11 28 29 of their Faith to feed upon him g 2 Cor. 13 5 of their Repentance h 1 Cor. 11 31 love i 1 Cor 10 16 17 and new obedience k 1 Cor 5 7 8 lest coming unworthily they eat and drink judgment to themselves l 1 Cor. 11 28. 29 Q. What is Prayer A. Prayer is an offering up of our desires to God m Psa 62. 8 for things agreeable to his will n 1 Ioh 5 14 in the Name of Christ o Ioh. 16 23 with confession of our sins p Psal 32 5 6 Dan. 9 4 and thankful acknowledgment of his mercies q Phil 4 6 Q. What rule hath God given for our direction in Prayer A. The whole Word of God is of use to direct us in Prayer r 1 Ioh 5 14 but the special rule of direction is that form of Prayer which Christ taught his Disciples commonly called The Lords Prayer Å¿ Math. 6 9 10 11 12 13 with Luke 11 2 3 4 Q. What doth the Preface of the Lords Prayer teach us A. The Preface of the Lords Prayer which is Our Father which art in Heaven t Mat 6 9 teacheth us to draw neer to God with all holy reverence and confidence as children to
30. 22. upon the apprehension of Gods mercy in Christ to such as are penitent n Ioel 2. 12. 13. he so grieves for o Ier. 31. 18. 19. and hates his sins p 2 Cor. 7. 11. as that he turns from them all to God q Acts 26. 28. Ezek. 14. 6. 1 Kin. 8. 47. 48. purposing and endeavouring constantly to walk with him in all the wayes of new obedience r Psal 119. 6 19. 12. Luk. 1. 6. 2 Kin. 23. 25 Q. Wherein do justification and Sanctification differ A. Although Sanctificati-be inseparably joyned with Iustification Å¿ 1 Cor. 6. 11. 1 Cor. 1. â—â— yet they differ in that God in Iutification imputeth the righteousnesse of Christ t Rom. 4. 6 8 in sanctification his spirit infuseth grace and enableth to the exercise therof u Ezek 36 27 in the former sin is pardoned w Rom. 3. 24 25 in the other it is subdued x Rom. 6. 6 14 the one doth equally free all believers from the revenging wrath of God and that perfectly in this life that they never fall into condemnation y Rom. 8. 33 34 the other is neither equall in all z 1 Ioh. 1. 12 13 14 Heb. 5. 12 13 14 nor in this life perfect in any a 1 Ioh. 1. 8 10 but growing up to perfection b 2 Cor. 7. 2 Phil. 3. 12 13 14 Q. Whence ariseth the imperfection of Sanctification in beleevers A. The imperfection of Sanctification in believers ariseth from the remnants of sin abiding in every part of them and the perpetual lustings of the flesh against the spirit whereby they are often foiled with temptations and fall into many sins c Rom. 7. 18. 23 Mar. 14 66 to the end Gal. 2. 11 12 are hindered in all their spirituall services d Heb. 12. 1 and their best works are imperfect and defiled in the sight of God e Isa 64. 6 Exod 28 38 Q. May not true beleivers by reason of their imperfections and the many temptations and sins they are overtaken with fall away from the state of Grace A. True Beleevers by reason of the unchangeable love of God f Ier. 31. 3 and his Decree Covenant to give them perseverance g 2 Tim. 2. 19 Heb. 13. 20 21 2 Sam. 23. 5 their inseparable union with Christ h 1 Cor. 18. 9 his continuall intercession for them i Heb. 7. 25 Luk. 22. 32 and the spirit and seed of God abiding in them k 1 Ioh. 3. 9 1 Ioh. 2. 27. can neither totally nor finally fall away from the state of grace l Ier 32. 40 Ioh. 10. 28 but are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation m 1 Pet. 1. 5 Q. Can true believers be infallibly assured that they are in the estate of grace and that they shall persevere therein unto salvation A. Such as truly believe in Christ and endeavor to walk in all good conscience before him n 1 Iohn 2. 3 may without extraordinary revelation by faith grounded upon the truth of Gods promises by the spirit enabling them to discern in themselves those graces in which the promises of life are made o 1 Cor. 2. 12 1 Ioh. 3. 4 18 19 21 24 1 Iohn 4. 13 16 Heb. 6. 11 12 and bearing witnesse with their spirits â—hat they are the children of God p Rom. 8. 16 be infallibly assured that they are in the estate of grace shall persevere therein unto salvation q 1 Ioh. 5. 1 Q. Are all true believers at all times assured of their present being in the estate of grace and that they shall be saved A. Assurance of grace and salvation not being of the essence of faith r Eph. 1 13 true believers may wait long before they obtain it Å¿ Isa 50. 10 Psal 88. throughout and after the enjoyment thereof may have it weakned and intermitted through manifold distempers sins temptations and desertions t Psal 77. 1 to 12 Cant. â— 2 3 6 Psal 58. â—â— Psal 31. 22 Psal 22. 1. yet are they never left without such a presence support of the Spirit of God as keeps them from sinking into utter despair u Ioh 3 9 Iob 13 15 Ps â—3 15 23. Isa 54. 7 8 9 10 Q. What is the Communion in Glory which the members of the Invisible Church have with Christ A. The Communion in glory which the members of the Invisible Church have with Christ is in this life w 2 Cor. 3. 18 immediately after death x Luk. 23. 43 and at last perfected at the resurrection and day of judgement y 1 Thes 4. 17 Q. What is the Communion in Glory with Christ which the members of the Invisible Church enjoy in this life A. The members of the Invisible Church have communicated to them in this life the first fruits of glory with Christ as they are members of him their head so in him are interessed in that glory which he is fully possessed of z Eph. 2. 5. 6 and as an earnest thereof enjoy the sense of Gods love a Rom. 5. 5 with 2 Cor. 1. 22 peace of conscience joy in the holy Ghost and hope of glory b Rom. 5 1 2 Rom. 14. 17 as on the contrary the sense of Gods revenging wrath horrour of conscience and a fearfull expectation of judgement are to the wicked the beginning of their torments which they shall endure after death c Gen. 4. 13 Mat. 27 4 Heb. 10. 27 Rom. 2. 9 Mat. 9. 44 Q. Shall all men die A Death being threatned as the wages of sin d Rom. 6. 25 it is appointed unto all men once to die e Heb 9 27 for that all have sinned f Rom. 5. 12 Q. Death being the wages of sin why are not the righteous delivered from death seeing all their sins are for given in Christ A. The righteous shall be delivered from death it self at the last day and even in death are delivered from the sting and curse of it g 1 Cor. 15 26 56 Heb 2. 15 so that although they die yet it is out of Gods love h Isa 57. 1 2 2 Kin. 22. 20 to free them perfectly from sin and misery i Rev. 14. 13 Eph. 5. 27 and to make them capable of further communion with Christ in glory which they then enter upon k Luk. 23. 43 Phil. 1. 23 Q. What is the commnuion in Glory with Christ which the members of the invisible Church enjoy immediately after death A. The communion in glory with Christ which the members of the invisible Church enjoy immediately after death is in that their souls are then made perfect in holinesse l Heb. 12. 23 and received into the highest heavens m 2 Cor. 5. 1 6 8 Phil. 1. 23 with Acts 3. 21. and Eph. 4. 10 where they behold the face of
read although there follow no immediate explication of what is read the Word expounded and applyed Catechising the Sacraments administred Collection made for the poor dismissing the people with a blessing Of Church Government and the several sorts of Assemblies for the same CHrist hath instituted a Government and Governors Ecclesiastical in the Church to that purpose the Apostles did immediately receive the keys from the hand of Jesus Christ and did use and exercise them in all the Churches of the world upon all occasions And Christ hath since continually furnished some in his Church with gifts of Government and with commission to execute the same when called thereunto It is lawful and agreeable to the Word of God that the Church be governed by several sorts of Assemblies which are Congregational Classical and Synodical Of the power in Common of all these Assemblies IT is lawful and agreeable to the word of God that the several Assemblies before mentioned have power to convent and call before them any person within their several bounds whom the Ecclesiastical business which is before them doth concern proved by Math. Chap. 18. They have power to hear and determine such causes and differences as do orderly come before them It is lawful and agreeable to the Word of God that all the said Assemblies have some power to dispence Church-censures Of Congregational Assemblies that is The meeting of the ruling Officers of a particular Congregation for the Government thereof THe ruling Officers of a particular Congregation have power authoritatively to call before them any member of the Congregation as they shall see just occasion To enquire into the knowledg and spiritual estate of the several members of the Congregation To admonish and rebuke Which three branches are proved by Heb. 13. 17. 1 Thess 5. 12 13. Ezek. 34. 4. Authoritative suspension from the Lords Table of a person not yet cast out of the Church is agreeable to the Scripture First Because the Ordinance it self must not be prophaned Secondly Because we are charged to withdraw from these that walk disorderly Thirdly Because of the great sin and danger both to him that comes unworthily and also to the whole Church Mat. 7. 6. 2 Thess 3. 6 14 15. 1 Cor. 11. 27. to the end of the chap. compared with Jude vers 23. 1 Tim. 5. 22. And there was power and authority under the Old Testament to keep unclean persons from holy things Levit. 13. 5. Numb 9. 7. 2 Chron. 23. 19. The like power and authority by way of Analogy continues under the New Testament The Ruling Officers of a particular Congregation have power authoritatively to suspend from the Lords Table a person not yet cast out of the Church First Because those who have authority to judg of and admit such as are fit to receive the Sacrament have authority to keep back such as shall be found unworthy Secondly Because it is an Ecclesiastical business of ordinary practise belonging to that Congregation When Congregations are divided and fixed they need all mutual help one from another both in regard of their intrinsecal weaknesses and mutual dependence As also in regard of enemies from without Of Classical Assemblies THe Scripture doth hold out a Presbytery in a Church both in the first Epistle to Timothy Chap. 4. vers 14. and in Acts 15. verses 2 4 6. A Presbytery consisteth of Ministers of the Word and such other publique Officers as are agreeable to and warranted by the Word of God to be Church Governors to joyn with the Ministers in the Government of the Church as appeareth Rom. 12. 7 8. 1 Cor. 12. 28. The Scripture doth hold forth that many particular Congregations may be under one Presbyterial Government This Proposition is proved by instances First Of the Church of Jerusalem which consisteth of more Congregations then one and all these Congregations were under one Presbyterial Government This appeareth thus First The Church of Jerusalem consisteth of more Congregations then one as is manifest first By the multitude of Beleevers mentioned in divers Both before the dispersion of the Beleevers there by means of the persecution mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles Chap. 8. in the beginning thereof witness Chap. 1. verse 11. and 2. v. 41 46 47. and 4. 4. and 5 14. and Chap. 6. of the same book of the Acts verses 1 7. And also after the dispersion Acts 9. 31. Chap. 12. â—4 and Chap. 21. ver 20. of the same book Secondly By the many Apostles and other Preachers in the Church of Jerusalem And if there were but one Congregation there then each Apostle preached but seldom which will not consist with Chap. 6. verse 2. of the same book of the Acts of the Apostles Thirdly The diversity of languages amongst the Beleevers mentioned both in the second and sixth Chapters of the Acts doth argue more Congregations then one in that Church Secondly All those Congregations were under one Presbyterial Government because First They were one Church Acts 8. 1. and Chapter 2. 47. compared with Chap. 5. 11 and 12. 5. and 15. 4. of the same book Secondly The Elders of the Church are mentioned Acts 11. 30. and 15. 4 6 22. and 21. 17 18. of the same book Thirdly The Apostles did the ordinary Acts of Presbyters as Presbyters in that Kirk which proveth a Presbyterial Church before the dispersion Acts 6. Fourthly The several Congregations in Jerusalem being one Church the Elders of that Church are mentioned as meeting together for acts of Government Acts 11. 30. and 15. 4 6 22. and 21. 17 18. and so forward which proves that those several Congregations were under one Presbyterial Government And whether these Congregations were fixed or not fixed in regard of Officers or Members it is all one as to the truth of the Proposition Nor doth there appear any material difference betwixt the several Congregations in Ierusalem and the many Congregations now in the ordinary condition of the Church as to the point of fixedness required of Officers or Members Thirdly Therefore the Scripture doth hold forth that many Congregations may be under one Presbyterial Government Secondly By the instance of the Church of Ephesus for 1 That they were more Congregations then one in the Church of Ephesus appears by Acts 20 31. where is mention of Pauls continuance at Ephesus in Preaching for the space of three years and Acts 19 18 19 20. where the special effect of the Word is mentioned and verse 10 and 17 of the same Chapter where is a distinction of Iews and Greeks and 1 Cor. 16. 8 9. where a reason of Pauls stay at Ephesus until Pentecost and verse 19 where is mention of a particular Church in the house of Aquila and Priscilla then at Ephesus as appears Acts 18. 19 24 26. all which laid together doth prove that the multitudes of Beleevers did make more Congregations then one in the Church of Ephesus 2. That there were many Elders over these many Congregations
to the good thereof CHAP. VI. Of the Fall of Man of Sin and of the Punishment thereof OVr first Parents being seduced by the subtilty and Temptation of Satan sinned in eating the forbidden fruit a Gen. 3. 13. 2 Cor. 11. 3 This their sin God was pleased according to his wise and holy counsell to pâ—rmit having purposed to order it to his own glory b Rom. 1â— 32. II. By this sinne they fell from their originall righteousnesse and communion with God c Gen. 3. 6 7 8. Eccles 7. 29. Rom. 3. 23. and so became dead in sin d Gen. 2. 17 Eph 2. 1 and wholly defiled in all the faculties and parts of soul and body e Tit. 1. 15 Gen. 6. 5. Ier. 17. 9. Rom. 3 10 10 19. III. They being the root of all mankind the guilt of this sin was imputed f Gen. 1. 27. 28 and Gen 2. 16 17. and Acts 17 13. with Rom. 5. 12 15 16 17. 18 19. and 1 Cor. 15 21 22 45 and the same death in sin and corrupted nature conveyed to all their posterity descending from them by ordinary generation g Psal 51. 5 Gen. 5. 3. Iob 14. 4. Iob 15. 14. IV. From this originall corruption whereby we are utterly indisposed disabled and made opposite to all good h Rom. 5. 6. Rom 8. 7. Rom. 7. 18. Col. 1. 21 and wholly inclined to all evil i Gen 6. 5. Gen 8 21. Rom 3. 10 11 12. do proceed all actuall transgressions k Iam. 1. 14 15. Eph. 2. 2 3. Mat. 15. 19 V. This corruption of nature during this life doth remaine in those that are regenerated l 1 Ioh 1. 8 10. Rom 7. 14 17 18 23. Iam. 3 2 Prov. 20. 9. Eccles 7. 20 and although it be through Christ pardoned and mortified yet both it self and all the motions thereof are truly and properly sin m Rom 7. 5 7 8 25. Gal. 5. 17. VI. Every sin both Originall and Actuall being a transgression of the righteous Law of God and contrary thereunto n Iohn 3. 4 doth in its own nature bring guilt upon the sinner o Rom. 2. 15. Rom. 3. 9 19. whereby he is bound over to the wrath of God p Ephes 2. 3. and curse of the Law q Gal. 3. 10. and so made subject to death r Rom. 6. 23. with all miseries spirituall Å¿ Ephes 4. 18. temporall t Rom. 8. 20. Iam. 3. 39. and eternall u Mat. 25. 41. 2 Thes 1. 9. CHAP. VII Of Gods Covenant with Man THe distance between God and the Creature is so great that although reasonable Creatures do owe obedience unto him as their Creator yet they could never have any fruition of him as their Blessednesse and Reward but by some voluntary condescension on Gods part which he hath been pleased to expresse by way of Covenant a Isaiah 40. 13 14 15 16 17. Iob 9. 32 33 1 Sam. 2. 25 Ps 113. 5 6 Psal 100. 2 3 Iob 22 2 3. Iob 35. 7 8 Luke 17. 10 Act 17. 24 25. II. The first Covenant made with Man was a Covenant of Works b Gal. 3. 12 wherin Life was promised to Adam and in him to his posterity c Rom. 10. 5 Rom 5. 12 to 20. upon condition of perfect and personall obedience d Gen. 2. 17 Gal. 3. 10. III. Man by his Fall having made himself uncapable of Life by that Covenant the Lord was pleased to make a Second e Gal. 3 21 Rom. 3. 20 21. Gen 3. 15. Isa 42. 6 commonly called the Covenant of Grace Wherein he freely offereth unto sinners Life and Salvation by Iesus Christ requiting of them Faith in Him that they may be saved f Mark 16 15 16. Iohn 3. 16. Rom. 10. 6 9. Gal. 3. 11 and promising to give unto all those that are ordained unto Life his holy Spirit to make them willing and able to believe g Ezek. 36. 26 27. Iohn 6. 44 45. IV. This Covenant of Grace is frequently set forth in the Scripture by the name of a Testament in reference to the death of Iesus Christ the Testator and to the everlasting Inheritance with all things belonging to it therein bequeathed h Heb. 9. 15 16 17. Heb. 7. 22. Luke 22. 20. 1 Cor. 11. 25 V. This Covenant was differently administred in the time of the Law and in the time of the Gospel i 2 Cor. 3. 6 7 8 9. Vnder the Law it was administred by Promises Prophesies Sacrifices Circumcision the Paschal Lamb and other Types and Ordinances delivered to the people of the Iewes all fore-signifying Christ to come k Heb. 8. 9 10 chapters Rom. 4. 11 Col. 21. 1 12 1 Cor. 5. 7 which were for that time sufficient and efficacious through the operation of the Spirit to instruct and build up the Elect in Faith in the Promised Messiah l 1 Cor. 10 1. 2 3 4. Heb. 11. 13 Iohn 8. 56 by whom they had full remission of sins and eternall Salvation and is called the Old Testament m Gal. 3. 7 8 9 14. VI. Vnder the Gospel when Christ the substance n Col. 2. 17 was exhibited the Ordinances in which this Covenant is dispensed are the Preaching of the Word and the Administration of the Sacraments of Baptism and the Lords Supper o Mat. 28 19 30. 1 Cor. 14 23 24 25 Which though fewer in number and administred with more simplicity and lesse outward glory yet in them it is held forth in more fulnesse evidence and spirituall efficacy p Heb. 12 22. to 28 Ier. 31. 33 34. to all nations both Iews and Gentiles q Mat. 28. 19 Eph. 2. 15 16 17 18 19 and is called the New Testament r Luk. 22. 20 There are not therefore Two Covenants of Grace differing in substance but one and the same under various dispensations Å¿ Gal. 3. 4 16. Rom. 3 21 22 23 30 Psal 32. 1 with Rom. 4. 3 6 17 23 24. Heb. 13. 8. Act. 15. 11. CHAP. VIII Of Christ the Mediatour IT pleased God in his eternall purpose to choose and ordain the Lord Iesus His only begotten Son to be the Mediator between God and Man a Isa 42. 1 1 Pet. 1. 19 20. Iohn 3. 16. 1 Tim. 2. 5 the Prophet b Acts 3. 22 Priest c Heb. 5 5 6 and King d Psal 2. 6 Luke 1. 33 the Head and Saviour of his Church e Eph. 5. 23 the Heir of all things f Heb. 1. 2 and Iudge of the World g Acts 17. 31 Vnto whom He did from all eternity give a People to be his Seed h Iohn 17. 6 Psal 22. 30 Isa 53. 10 and to be by him in time Redeemed Called Iustified Sanctified and Glorified i 1 Tim. 2. 6 Isa 55. 4 5 1 Cor. 1. 30 II. The Son of God the second Person in the Trinity
Iam. 2. 11 Psal 119 101 104 28. and the threatnings of it serve to shew what even their sins deserve and what afflictions in this life they may expect for them although freed from the curse thereof threatned in the Law r Ezra 9. 13 14. Psal 89 30 31 32 33 34. The promises of it in like manner shew them Gods approbarion of obedience and what blessings they may expect upon the performance thereof Å¿ Levit. 26. 1 to 14. with 2 Cor. 6. 16 Eph. 6. 2. 3 Psal 37. 11 with Mat. 5 5. Psal 19 11. although not as due to them by the Law as a Covenant of Works t Gal. 2. 16 Luke 17. 10 So as a mans doing good and refraining from evill because the Law encourageth to the one and deterreth from the other is no evidence of his being under the Law and not under grace u Rom. 6 12 14. 1 Pet. 3. 8 9 10 11 12 with Psa 34 12 13 14 15 16 Heb. 12. 28 29. VII Neither are the forementioned Vses of the Law contrary to the grace of the Gospel but do sweetly comply with it w Gal. 3. 21 the Spirit of Christ subduing and inabling the will of man to do that freely and chearfully which the will of God revealed in the Law requireth to be done x Eze. 36. 27 Heb. 8. 10 with Ier. 31 33. CHAP. XX. Of Christian Liberty and Liberty of Conscience THe Liberty which Christ hath purchased for Beleevers under the Gospel consists in their freedom from the guilt of sin the condemning Wâ—ath of God the Curse of the Morall Law a Tit. 2. 14 1 Thes 1. 10 Gal. 3. 13 and in their being delivered from this present evil world bondage to Satan and Dominion of sin b Gal. 1. 4 Col. â— 13 Acts 26. 18 Rom. 6. â—4 from the evill of afflictions the sting of death the victory of the grave and everlasting damnation c Rom. 8. 28 Psal 119. 71 1 Cor. 15. 55 55 56. 57 Rom. 8. 1 as also in their free accesse to God d Rom. 5 1 2 and their yeelding obedience unto him not out of slavish fear but a child like love and willing minde e Rom. 8 14 15 1 Iohn 4 18. All which were common also to Beleevers under the Law f Gal. 3. 9 14. But under the New Testament the liberty of Christians is further inlarged in their freedom from the yoke of the Ceremonial Law to which the Iewish Church was subjected g Gal. 4. 1 2 3 6 7 Gal. 5. 1 Acts 15. 10 11. and in greater boldnesse of accesse to the Throne of Grace h Heb. 4. 14 16. Heb. 10 19 20. 21 22 and in fuller communications of the free Spirit of God than Beleevers under the Law did ordinarily partake of i 1 Iohn 7 38 39 2 Cor. 3. 13 17 19 II. God alone is Lord of the Conscience k Iam. 4. 12 Rom. 14. 4. and hath left it free from the Doctrines and Commandments of men which are in any thing contrary to his Word or beside it if matters of Faith or Worship l Acts 4. 19 Acts 5. 29 1 Cor. 7. 25 Mat 23. 8. 9 10. 2 Cor. 1 24. Mat. 15. 9 So thaâ— to beleeve such Doctrines or to obey such commands out of conscience is to betray true liberty of conscience m Col. 2. 20 22. 23. Gal. 1 10. Gal. 2. 14 5. Psal 5. 1 and the requiring of an implicit faith and an absolute aâ—d blinde obedience is to destroy lâ—berty of conscience and reason also n Rom. 10 17. Rom 14 23 Isa 8. 20 Acts 17. 11 Iohn 4. â—â— Hos 5. 11 Revel 13. â—â— 16 17 Ier. 8. 9 III. They who upon pretence of Christian Liberty do practise any sin or cherish any lust do thereby destroy the end of Christian Liberty which is that being delivered out of the hands of our Enemies we might serve the Lord without fear in holinesse and righteousnesse before him all the dayes of our life o Gal. 5. 13 â— Pet 2. 16 2 Pet. 2 19 Iohn 8. 34 Luke 1. 74. 75. IV. And because the Powers which God hath ordained and the Liberty which Christ hath purchased are not intended by God to destroy but mutually to uphold preserve one another They who upon pretence of Christian Liberty shall oppose any lawfull Power or the lawfull exercise of it whether it be Civill or Ecclesiasticall resist the Ordinance of GOD p Mat. 12. 25 1 Pet. 2. 13 14 16 Rom. 13. 1 10 8. Heb 13. 17. And for their publishing of such Opinions or maintaining of such Practises as are contrary to the light of Nature or to the known Principles of Christianity whethe concerning Faith Worship or Conversation or to the Power of Godlinesse or such erroneous Opinions or Practises as either in their own nature or in the manner of publishing or maintaining them are destructive to the externall Peace and Order which Christ hath established in the Church they may lawfully be called to account and proceeded against by the Censures of the Church q Rom. 1. 32 with 1 Cor 5. 1 5 11 13. 2 Iohnver 10. 11. and 2 Thes 3. 14. and 1 Tim. 6 3 4 5. and Tit. 1. 10 11 13. Tit. 3. 10. with Mat. 18. 15 16. 17. 1 Tim. 1. 19 20. Reve. 2. 2 14 15 20. Rev. 3. 9. and by the Power of the Civill Magistrate r Deut. 13. 6 to 12. Rom. 13. Rom. 13. 3 4. with 2 Iohn ver 10 11. Ezra 7. 23 25 26 27 28. Revel 17. 12 16 17. Nehem. 13. 15 17 21 22 25 30. 2 Kings 23. 5 6 9 20 21. 2 Chron. 34. 33. 2 Chron. 15. 12 13 16. Dan. 3. 29. 1 Tim. 2. 2. Isa 49. 23. Zec. 13 2 3. CHAP. XXI Of Religious Worship and the Sabbath-day THe light of Nature sheweth that there is a GOD who hath Lordship and Soveraignty over all is good and doth good unto all and is therefore to be feared loved praised called upon trusted in served with all the heart and with all the soul and the might a Rom 1. 20 Acts 17. 24 Psal 119. 68 Ier. 10. 7 Psal 13. 23 Psal 18. â— Rom. 10. 12 Psal 6. 2. 8 Ios 24. 14. Mark 12. 33 But the acceptable way of Worshipping the true GOD is instituted by Himself and so limited by his own revealed Will that he may not be worshipped according to the imaginations and devices of men or the suggestions of Satan under any visible representation or any other way not prescribed in the holy Scripture b Deut. 12. 32. Mat. 1â— 9. Acts 17. 25. Mat. 4 9. 10. Deu. 4. 15. 10 20. Exo. 20. 4 5 6. Col. 2. 23 II. Religious Worship is to be given to GOD the Father the Son and Holy Ghost and to him alone c Mat. 4. 10. with Ioh. 5. 23 2. 2 Cor. 13. 14 not to Angels
sue out a Divorce m Mat. 5. 31 32. And after the Divorce to marry another as if the offending party were dead n Mat. 19. 9 Rom. 7. â— 3 VI. Although the corruption of man be such as is apt to study arguments unduely to put asunder those whom God hath joyned together in marriage yet nothing but Adultery or such wilfull desertion as can no way be remedied by the Church or Civil Magistrate is cause sufficient of dissolving the bond of Marriage o Mat. 19. 8 9. 1 Cor. 7. 15. Mat 19. 6. Wherein a publick and orderly course of proceeding is to be observed And the Persons concerned in it not left to their own wills and discretion in their own case p Deut. 24. 1 2 3 4. CHAP. XXV Of the Church THe Catholick or Vniversall Church which is invisible consists of the whole number of the Elect that have bin are or shall be gathered into one under Christ the Head thereof and is the Spouse the Body the fulnesse of Him that filleth all in all a Eph. 1. 10 22 23 Eph. 5. 23 27. 32 Col. 1. 18 II. The visible Church which is also Catholick or Vniversall under the Gospell not confined to one Nation as before under the Law consists of all those throughout the World that professe the true Religion b 1 Cor. 1 2 1 Cor. 12 12 13. Psal 2. 8 Rev. 7. 9 Rom. 15. 9 10 11 12 and of their children c 1 Cor. 7. 14. Acts 2 39. Ezek. 16. 20 21. Rom. 11 16. Gen. 3. 15. Gen. 17. 7 and is the Kingdome of the Lord Iesus Christ d Mat. 13. 47 Isa 9. 7 â— Eph. 1. 19 the House and Family of God e Eph 2. 15 out of which there is no ordinary possibility of Salvation f Acts 2. 47 III. Vnto this Catholick Visible Church Christ hath given the Ministery Oracles and Ordinances of God for the gathering and perfecting of the Saints in this life to the end of the world aâ—d doth by his own presence and Spirit according to his promise make them effectuall thereunto g 1 Cor 12 28. Eph. 4 11 12 13 Mat. 28. 19 20. Isa 50. 21 IV. This Catholick Church hath bin sometimes more sometimes lesse visible h Rom. 11. 3 4. Rev. 12. 6 14. And particular Churches which are Members thereof are more or lesse as pure according as the Doctrine of the Gospel is taught and imbraced Ordinances administred and publick worship performed more or less purely in them i Rev. 2. 3 chapters 1 Cor. 5. 6 7 V. The purest Churches under Heaven are subject both to mixture and errour k 1 Cor 13. 12. Rev. 2. 3 chapters Mat. 13. 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 47 and some have so degenerated as to become no Churches of Christ but Synagogues of Satan l Rev. 18. 2 Rom. 11. 18 19 20 21 22 Neverthelesse there shall be alwayes a Church on Earth to Worship God according to his will m Mat. 16 18 Psâ—l 72. 17 Psâ—l 102. 28 Mat 28. 19 20 VI. There is no other Head of the Church but the Lord Iesus Christ n Col. 1. 18 Eph 1. 22 Nor can the Pope of Rome in any sence be head thereof but is that Antichrist that man of sin and Sun of Perdition that exalteth himself in the CHurch against Christ and all that is called God o Mat. â—3 8 9 10 2 Thess 2. 3 4 8. 9 Rev. 13. 6. CHAP. XXVI Of the Communion of Saints ALL Saints that are united to Iesus Christ their Head by his Spirit and by Faith have fellowship with him in his graces Sufferings Death Resurrection and Glory a 1 Iohn 1 Eph 3. 16 17 18 19 Iohn 1. 16 Eph. 2 5 6 Phil. 3. 10 Rom. 6. 5 6 2 Tim. 2 12 And being united to one another in love they have communion in each others gifts graces b Eph. 4. 15 16. 1 Cor. 12 7. 1 Cor 3. 21 22 23 Col. 2. 19. and are obliged to the performance of such duties publick and private as do conduce to their mutuall good both in the inward and outward man c 1 Thes â— 11. 14 Rom. 1 11 12 14. 1 Iohn 3. 16 17 18. Gal. 6. 10. II Saints by profession are bound to maintain an holy fellowship and communion in the worship of God and in performing such other spirituall services as tend to their mutuall edification d Heb. 10 24 25. Acts 2. 42 46 Isa 2 3 1 Cor. 11 20 as also in relieving each other in outward things according to their severall abilities and necessities Which Communion as God offereth opportunity is to be extended unto all those who in every place call upon the Name of the Lord Iesus e Acts 2. 44 45. 1 Iohn 3. â—7 2 Cor. 8 9. chapters Acts 11. 29 30. III. This Communion which the Saints have with Christ doth not make them in any wise partakers of the substance of his God-head or to be equall with Christ in any respect either of which to affirm is impious and blasphemous f Col 1. 18 19. 1 Cor. 8 6. Isa 42 8 1 Tim 6 15 16. Psal 45 7. with Heb. 1. 8 9. Nor doth their Communion one with another as Saints take away or in fringe the title or propriety which each man hath in goods and possessions g Exod. 20. 15 Eph 4 28 Acts 5. 4. CHAP. XXVII Of the Sacraments SAcraments are holy Signes and Seales of the Covenant of Grace a Rom. 4. 11 Gen. 17. 7 10 immediatly instituted by God b Mat. 28. 19 1 Cor 11. 23. to represent Christ and his Benefits and to confirm our interest in him c 1 Cor. 10 16. 1 Cor 25 26. Gal. 3. 27. as also to put a visible difference between those that belong unto the Church and the rest of the World d Rom. 15. 8 Exod. 12. 48 Gen. 34. 14 and solemnly to engage them to the Service of God in Christ according to his Word e Rom. 6. 3 4. 1 Cor. 10. 16 21. II. There is in every Sacrament a spirituall relation or Sacramentall union between the Signe and the Thing signified whence it comes to passe that the names and effects of the one are attributed to the other f Gen. 17. 10 Mat. 26. 27 28. Tit. 3. 5 III. The grace which is exhibited in or by the Sacraments rightly used is not conferred by any power in them neither doth the efficacy of a Sacrament depend upon the piety or intention of him that doth administer it g Rom 2. 28 29. 1 Pet. 3. 21 but upon the work of the Spirit h Mat. 3. â—â— 2 Cor. 12. 13 and the word of institution which contains together with a precept authorizing the use thereof a promise of benefit to worthy receivers i Mat. 26. 27 â—8 Mat. 28. 19 â—0 IV. There be only two Sacraments ordained
present to the Faith of Believers in that Ordinance as the Elements themselves are to their outward senses o 1 Cor 10 16 VIII Although ignorant and wicked men receive the outward Elements in this Sacrament yet they receive not the Thing signified thereby but by their unworthy comming thereunto are guilty of the Body Blood of the Lord to their own damnation Wherefore all ignorant and ungodly persons as they are unfit to enjoy communion with him so are they unworthy of the Lords Table and cannot without great sin against Christ while they remain such partake of these Holy Mysteries p 1 Cor. 11 27 28 29 2 Cor. 14 6 15. 16 or be admitted thereunto q 1 Cor. 5. 6 7 13 2 Thess 3 6 14 15 Mat. 7. 6 CHAP. XXX Of Church Censures THe Lord Iesus as King and Head of his Church hath therein appointed a Government in the hand of Church Officers distinct from the Civill Magistrate a Isa 9. 6 7 1 Tim. 5. 17 1 Thess 5. 12 Acts 20. 17 28. Heb. 13 7. 17 24 1 Cor. 12. 28 Mat. 28. 18 19 20. II. To these Officers the Keys of the Kingdom of Heaven are committed by vertue whereof they have power respectively to retain and remit sins to shut that Kingdom against the impenitent both by the Word and Censures and to open it unto penitent sinners by the Ministery of the Gospel and by Absolution from Censures as occasion shall require b Mat. 16. 19 Mat. 18. 17 18. Iohn 20 20 21 22 23 2 Cor. 2. 6 7 8. III. Church Censures are necessary for the reclaiming and gaining of offending Brethren for deterring of others from the like offences for purging out of that Leaven which might in fect the whole Lump for vindicating the honour of Christ and the holy Profession of the Gospel and for preventing the wrath of God which might justly fall upon the Church if they should suffer his Covenant and the Seals thereof to be prophaned by notorious and obstinatâ— offenders c 1 Cor. 5. Chapter 1 Tim. 5. 20 Mat. 7. 6 1 Tim. 1. 20 1 Cor. 11. 27 to the end with Iude ver 23. IV. For the better attaining of these ends the Officers of the Church are to proceed by Admonition suspension from the Sacrament of the Lords Supper for a season and by Excommunication from the Church according to the nature of the crime and demerit of the person d 1 Thes 5 12. 2 Thes 3. 6 14 15 1 Cor. 5. 4 5 13. Mat. 18 17. Tit. 3. 10 CHAP. XXXI Of Synods and Councels FOr the better Government and further edification of the Church theâ—e ought to be such Assemblies as are commonly called Synods or Councels a Act. 15. 2 4. 6. II. As Magistrates may lawfully call a Synod of Ministers and other fit Persons to consult and advise with about matters of Religion b Isa 49. 23 1 Tim 2. 1 2 2 Chron. 19 8 9 10. 11 2 Chron. 29 30. Chapters Mat. 24 5. Prov. 11. 14 So if Magistrates be open Enemies to the Church the Ministers of Christ of themselves by vertue of their Office or they with other fit persons upon delegation from their Churches may meet together in such Assemblies c Acts 15. 2 4 22 23 25 III. It belongeth to Synods and Councels ministerially to determine Controversies of Faith cases of Conscience to set down Rules Directions for better Ordâ—ring of the publick Worship of God and Government of his Church to receive complaints in cases of Male administration and authoritatively to Determine the same which Decrees and Determinations if consonant to the Word of God are to be received with reverence and submission not only for their agreement with the Word but also for the Power whereby they are made as being an Ordinance of God appointed thereunto in his Word d Acts 15. 15 19 24 27 28 29. 30 31 Acts 16. 4 Mat. 18. 17 18 19 20. IV. All Synods or Counsels since the Apostles times whether generall or particular may erre and many have erred Therefore they are not to bee made the rule of Faith or practice but to be used as an help in both e Eph 2. 22 Acts 17. 11 1 Cor. 2. 5 2 Cor. 1. 24 V. Synods and Counsels are to handle or conclude nothing but that which is Ecclesiasticall and are not to intermeddle with civill affaires which concern the Common-wealth unlesse by way of humble petition in cases extraordinary or by way of Advice for satisfaction of conscience if they be thereunto required by the civill Magistrate f Luke 12 13 14. Iohn 18. 36 CHAP. XXXII Of the state of men after death and of the Resurrection of the dead THe Bodies of men after death return to dust and see corruption a Gen. 3. 19 Acts 13. 36 but their soules which neither die nor sleep having an immortall subsistence immediatly return to GOD who gave them b Luk. 23 43 Eccles 22. 7 the soules of the Righteous being then made perfect in holinesse are received into the highest Heavens where they behold the face of God in light glory waiting for the full Redemption of their Bodies c Heb. 12. 23 2 Cor 5 1 6 8. Phil. 1. 23 with Acts 3 21. Eph. 4. 10. And the souls of the wicked are cast into Hell where they remain in torments utter darknesse reserved to the Iudgement of the great Day d Luk. 16. 23 24. Acts 1 25 Iude v. 6 7 1 Pet. 3. 19 Beside these two places for souls separated from their bodies the Scripture acknowledgeth none II. At the last Day such as are found alive shal not die but be changed e 1 Thes 4. 17 1 Cor. 15. 51 52. and all the dead shall be raised up with the self same bodies none other although with different qualities which shall be united again to their souls for ever f Iob 19. 26 27. 1 Cor. 15 42 43 44 III. The bodies of the unjust shall by the power of Christ be raised to dishonour the bodies of the just by his spirit unto honour and be made conformable to his own glorious Body g Acts 24 1â— Ioh. 5. 28 29 1 Cor. 15. 42 Phil. 3. 21 CHAP. XXXIII Of the last Judgement GOD hath appointed a Day wherein he will judge the World in righteousnesse by Iesus Christ a Acts 17. 31 to whom all power and judgement is given of the Father b Ioh 5. 22 27. In which day not only the Apostate Angels shall be judged c 1 Cor. 6. 3 Iude vers 6 2 Pet. 2. 4. but likewise all persons that have lived upon earth shall appear before the tribunall of Christ to give an account of their thoughts words and deeds and to receive according to what they have done in the Body whether good or evill d 2 Cor. 5 10 Eccl. 12. 14 Rom. 2. 16 Rom 14. 10
conversed with his Apostles speaking to them of the things pertaining to the Kingdome of God d Acts 1. 2. 3. and giving them commission to preach the Gospell to all nations e Mat. 28. 19 20. forty dayes after his resurrection he in our nature and as our head f Heb. 6. 20 triumphing over enemies g Eph. 4. 8. visibly went up into the highest heavens there to receive gifts for men h Acts 1. 9. 10. 11. Eph. 4. 10. Psal 68. 18. to raise up our affections thither i Col. 3. 1. 2 and to prepare a place for us k Ioh. 14. 3. where himself is and shall continue till his second comming at the end of the world l Acts 3. 21. Q. How is Christ exalted in his sitting at the right hand of God A. Christ is exalted in his sitting at the right hand of God in that as God-man he is advanced to highest favour with God the Father m Phil. 2. 9. with all fulnesse of joy n Acts 2. â—8 with Psal 16. 11. glory o Ioh. 17. 5. and power over all things in heaven and earth p Eph. 1. 22. 1 Pet. 3. 21. and doth gather and defend his Church subdue their enemies furnisheth his ministers and people with gifts and graces q Eph. 4. 10. 11 12. â—sa 110. throughout and maketh intercession for them r Rom. 8. 34. Q. How doth Christ make intercession A. Christ maketh intercession by his appearing in our nature continually before the Father in heaven Å¿ Heb. 9. 12. 24 in the merit of his obedience and sacrifice on earth t Heb. 1. 3. declaring his will to have it applyed to all believers u Ioh. 3. 16. Ioh 17. 9. 20. 24. answering all accusations against them w Rom. 8 33. 34. procuring for them quiet of conscience notwithstandding daily failings x Rom 5. 1 2 1 Iohn 2. 1 2 accesse with boldnesse to the throne of Grace y Heb. 4 16 acceptance of their persons z Eph. 1. 6 and services a 1 Pet. 2 5 Q. How is Christ to be exalted in his comming again to judge the world A. Christ is to be exalted in his coming again to judge the world in tha the who was unjustly judged condemned by wicked men b Acts 3. 14 15. shal come again at the last day with great power b in the full c Mat. 24. 30 manifestation of his own glory and of his Fathers with all his holy Angels d Luk. 9. 26 Mat. 25 31 with a shout with the voice of the Arch-Angel and with the Trumpet of God e 1 The. 4. 16 to judge the world in righteousnesse f Acts 17. 31 Q. What benefits hath Christ procured by his Mediation A. Christ by his Mediation hath procured redemption g Heb. 9. 12 with all other benefits of the Covenant of Grace h â— Cor. 1. 10 Q How doe we come to be made partakers of the benefits which Christ hath procured A. We are made partakers of the benefits which Christ hath procured by the application of them unto us i Ioh. 1. 11 12 which is especially the work of God the Holy Ghost k Tit. 3 5 6 Q. Who are made partakers of Redemption by Christ A. Redemption is certainly applyed effectually communicated to all those for whom Christ hath purchased it l Eph. 1. 3. 14. Ioh. 6. 37. 39 Ioh. 10. 15 16 who are in time by the holy Ghost inabled to beleeve in Christ according to the Gospel m Eph. â— 8 2 Câ—r 4. 13 Q. Can they who have never heard the Gospel and so know not Iesus Christ nor believe in him be saved by their living according to the light of nature A. They who having never heard the Gospel n Rom. 10. 14 know not Iesus Christ o 2 Thes 1 8 9 Eph. 2. 12 Ioh 1. 10 11. 12 and believe not in him cannot be saved p Ioh 8 24 Mar. 16 16 be they never so diligent to frame their lives according to the light of nature q 1 Cor 1. 20 21. 22 23 24 or the Law of that Religion which they professe r Ioh. 4. 22 Rom 9. 31 32 Phil. 3. 4 5 6 7. 8 9 neither is there salvation in any other but in Christ alone Å¿ Acts 4. 12 who is the Savior only of his body in the Church t Eph. â— â—3 Q. Are all they saved who hear the Gospel and live in the Church A. All that hear the Gospel and live in the visible Church are not saved but they oâ—ly who are true members of the Church invisible u Ioh. 12 38 39 40 Rom. 9. 6 Maz 22. 14. Mat. 7. 21 Rom. 11. 7 Q. What is the visible Church A. The visible Church is a society made up of all sâ—ch as in all ages and places of the world doe professe the true Religion w 1 Cor. 1. 2 1 Cor 12. 13 Rom. 15. 9 10 11 12 Rev. â— 9 Psal 2. 8. Psal 22. 27 28 29 30 31 Psâ—l 45. 17 Mat. 28. 19 20 Isa 59. 21 and of their children x 1 Coâ— 7. 14 Acts 2. 39 Rom 11. 16 Gen. 17. â— Q. What are the speciall priviledges of the visible Church A. The visible Church hath the priviledge of being under Gods speciall care and government y Isa 4. 5 6 1 Tim. 4. 10 of being protected and preserved in all ages notwithstanding the opposition of all enemies z Psal 11. 15 throughout Isa 31. 4 5 Zach. 12. 2 3 4 8 9. and of enjoyning the communion of Saints the ordinary means of salvation a Act. 2. 39 42. offers of grace by Christ to all the members of it in the ministery of the Gospel testifying that whosoever beleeves in him shall be saved b Psal 147 19 20 Rom. 9. 4 Eph. 4. 11 12 Mar. 16. 15 16 and excluding none that will come unto him c Ioh. 6. 37. Q. What is the Invisible Church A. The Invisible Church is the whole number of the Elect that have been are or shall be gathered into one under Christ the Head d Eph. 1. 10 22 23 Ioh. 10 16 Ioh. 11. 52 Q. What speciall Benefits doe the members of the Invisible Church enjoy by Christ A The members of the Invisible Church by Christ enjoy Vnion and Communion with him in grace and glory e Ioh. 17. 21 Eph. 2. 5 6 Ioh. 17. 24 Q. What is that Vnion which the Elect have with Christ A. The Vnion which the Elect have with Christ is the work of Gods grace f Eph. 1. 22 Eph. 2. 6 7 8 whereby they are spiritually and mystically yet really and inseparably joyned to Christ as their head and husband g 1 Cor. â— 17 Ioh. 10. â—8 Eph. 5 23. 30 which is done in their effectuall Calling h 1 Pet. 5. 10 1
From circumstances of time r 2 Kin. 5. 26 place Å¿ Ier. 7. 10 Isai 26. 10 if on the Lords day t Ezek. 23. 37. 38 39 or other times of divine worship u Isai 58. 3 4 5 or immediately before w 1 Cor. 11 20 21 or after these x Ier. 7. 8 9 10 Pro. 7. 14 15 Ioh. 13. 27 30 or other helps to prevent or remedy such miscarriages y Ezra 9. 13 14 if in publike or in the presence of others who are thereby likely to be provoked or defiled z 2 Sam. 16 22 1 Sam. 2. 22 23 24 Q. What doth every sinne deserve at the hands of God A. Every sin even the least being against the soveraignty a Iam 2. 10 11 goodnes b Ex. â—0 1 â— holines of God c Hab. 1. 13 Lev. 10. 3 Lev 11. 44 45 against his righteous law d 1 Ioh. 3. 4 Rom. 7. 12 deserveth his wrath curse e Eph. 5. 6 Gal. 3. 10. both in this life f Lam. 3. â—9 Deut. 28. 15 to the end that which is to come g Mat. 25. 41 cannot be expiated but by the blood of Christ h Heb. 9. 22 1 Pet. 1. 18 19 Q. What doth God require of us that we may escape his wrath and curse due to us by reason of the transgression of the Law A. That we may escape the wrath and curse of God due to us by reason of the transgression of the Law be requireth of us repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Iesus Christ i Acts 20. 21 Mat 3. 7 8 Luk 13. 3. 5 Acts 16. 30 31 Ioh. 3. 16. 18 and the diligent use of the outward meanes whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of his mediation k Prov. 21 to 6 Prov. 8. 33. to the end Q. What are the outward means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefiâ— of his mediation A. The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to his Church the benefits of his mediation are all his ordinances especially the Word Sacraments and prayer all which are made effectuall to the Elect for their salvation l Mat. 28. 19 20. Acts 2 42 46 47 Q. How is the word made effectuall to salvation A. The Spirit of God maketh the Reading but especially the Preaching of the Word an effectual means of enlightning m Neh. 8. 8 Acts 26. 18 Psal 19. 8 convincing and humbling sinners n 1 Cor. 14 24 25. 2 Chr. 34. 18 19 26 27 28. of driving them out of themselvs and drawing them unto Christ o Acts 2. 37 41. Acts 8 27 to 39 of conforming them to his Image p 1 Cor. 3. 18 and subduing them to his will q 2 Cor. 10. 4 5 6 Rom. 6. 17 of strengthening them against temptations and corruptions r Mat. 4 4. 7. 8 Eph. 6. 16 17 Psal 19. 11 1 Cor. 10. 11 of building them up in grace Å¿ Acts 20 32 2 Tim. 3. 15 16 17 and establishing their hearts in holiness and comfort through faith unto salvation t Rom. 16. 25 1 Thes 3. 2 10 11 13 Rom. 15. 4 Rom. 10. 13 14 15 16 17 Rom. 1. 16 Q. Is the word of God to be read by all A. Although all are not to be permitted to read the Word publikely to the Congregation u Deut. 31. 9 11 12 13 Neh. 8. 2. 3 Neh. 9. 3 4 5 yet all sorts of people are bound to read it apart by themselves w Deut. 17 19. Rev. 1. 3 Ioh. 5. 39 Isa 34. 16 with their families x Deut. 6 6 7. 8 9. Gen. 18 17 19. Psal 78. 5 6 7 to which end the holy Scriptures are to be translated out of the Original into vulgar languages y 1 Cor. 14. 6 9 11 12 15. 16 24. 27 28 Q. How is the Word of God to be read A. The holy Scriptures are to be read with an high and reverent esteem of them z Psaâ— 19. 10 Neh. 8. 3. to 10. Exod. 24. 7. 2 Chr. 34. 27. Isai 66. 2. with a firm perswasion that they are the very Word of God a 2 Pet. 1. 19 20 21 and that he only can enable us to understand them b Luk. 24. 45 2 Cor. 3 13 14 15 16 with desire to know believe and obey the will of God revealed in them c Deut. 17 19 20 with diligence d Acts 17. 11 and attention to the matter and scope of them e Acts 8. 30 34. Luk. 10 26 27 28 with meditation f Psal 1. 2 Psal 119. 97 application g 1 Chr. 34. 21 self-deniall h Pro. 3. 5 Deut. 33. 3 and prayer i Prov. 2. 1 to 7. Ps 119 18 Neh. 8. 6 8 Q. By whom is the Word of God to bee preached A. The Word of God is to be preached only by such as are sufficiently gifted k 1 Tim. 3. 2 6. Eph. 4. 8 9 10 11. Hos 4. 6. Mal. 2. 7 2 Cor. 3. 6 also duly approved called to that office l Ier. 14. 15 Rom. 10. 15 Heb. 5. 4 1 Cor. 12. 28 29. 1 Tim. 3 10. 1 Tim. 4 14. 1 Tim. 5 22 Q. How is the Word of God to be preached by those that are called thereunto A. They that are called to labour in the ministry of the Word are to preach sound doctrine m Tit. 2. 1 8 diligently n Acts 18. 25 in season and out of season o 2 Tim. 4. â— plainly p 1 Cor. 14. 19 not in the enticing words of mans wisdome but in demonstration of the Spirit and power q 1 Cor. 2. 4 faithfully r Ier. 23 28 1 Cor. 4. 1 2 making known the whole counsell of God Å¿ Acts 20. 27 wisely t Col. 1. 28 2 Tim. 2. 15 applying themselves to the necessities and capacities of the hearers u 1 Cor. 3. 2. Heb 5. 12 13. 14. Luk. 12. 42. zealously w Acts 10. 25. with fervent love to God x 2 Cor. 5. 13 14. Phil. 1. 15 16 17. and the souls of his people y Col. 4. 12. 2 Cor. 12. 15. sincerely z 2 Cor. 2. 1â— 2 Cor. 4. 2. ayming at his glory a 1 Thes 2. 4 5 6. Ioh. 7. 18. and their conversion b 1 Cor. 9. 19 20 21 22. edification c 2 Cor. 12 19. Eph. 4. 12. and salvation d 1 Tim. 4. 16 Acts 26. 16 17 18. Q. What is required of those that heare the Word preached A. It is required of those that hear the Word preached that they attend upon it with diligence e Pro. 8. 34 preparation f 1 Pet. 2. 1 2 Luke 8. 18 and prayer g Psal 119. 18 Eph. 6. 18. 19 examine what they hear by the Scriptures h Acts 17. 11 receive the truth with
faith i Heb 4 2 love k 2 The. 2. 10 meeknesse l Iames. 1. 21 and rediness of minde m Acts 17. 11 as the Word of God n 1 The. 2. 13 meditate o Luk. 9 44 Heb. 2. 1 and conferre of it p Luk. 24. 14 Deut. 6. 6 7 hide it in their hearts q Prov. 2. 1 Psal 119. 11 and bring forth the fruit of it in their lives r Luk. 8. 15 Iames 1. 25 Q. How doe the Sacraments become effectuall means of salvation A. The Sacraments become effectuall means of salvation not by any power in themselves or any vertue derived from the piety and intention of him by whom they are administred but only by the working of the holy Ghost the blessing of Christ by whom they are instituted Å¿ 1 Pet. 3. 21 Acts 8. 13 with v. 23 1 Cor. 3. 6 7 1 Cor. 12. 13 Q. What is a Sacrament A. A Sacrament is an holy ordinance instituted by Christ in his Church t Gen. 17 7 10. Ex. 12. ch Mat. 28 19 Mat. 26 27 28 to signifie seale and exhibit u Rom. 4. 11 1 Cor. 11. 24 25 unto those that are within the Covenant of grace w Rom. 15. 8 Exod. 12. 48 the benefits of his mediation x Acts 2. 38 1 Cor. 10. 16 to strengthen and encrease their faith and all other graces y Rom. 4. 11 Gal. 3. 27 to oblige them to obedience z Rom. 6. 3 4 1 Cor. 10. 21 to testifie and cherish their love and communion one with another a Eph. 4. 2 3. 4 5 1 Cor. 12. 13 and to distinguish them from those that are without b Eph. 2. 11 12 Gen. 34. 14 Q. What are the parts of a Sacrament A. The parts of a Sacrament are two the one an outward and sensible signe used according to Christs own appointment the other an inward and spiritual grace thereby signified c Mat. 3. 11 1 Pet. 3. 21 Rom. 2. 28 29 Q. How many Sacraments hath Christ instituted in his Church under the New Testament A. Vnder the New Testament Christ hath instituted in his Church only two Sacraments Baptism and the Lords Supper d Mat. 28. 19 1 Cor. 11. 20 23 Mat. 26. 26 27 28. Q. What is Baptism A. Baptism is a Sacrament of the New Testament wherein Christ hath ordained the washing with water in the Name of the Father and of the Sonne and of the Holy Ghost e Mat. 28. 19 to be a sign and seal of engrafting into himself f Gal. 3. 27 of remission of sinnes by his blood g Mar. 1. 4 Rev. 1. 5 and regeneration by his spirit h Tit. 3. 5 Eph. 5. 26 of Adoption i Gal. 3. 26 27 and resurrectionn to everlasting life k 1 Cor. 15 29 Rom. 6. 5 and whereby the parties baptized are solemnly admitted into the visible Church l 1 Cor. 12 13 and enter into an open and professed engagement to be wholly and only the Lords m Rom. 6 4 Q. Vnto whom is Baptism to be administred A. Baptism is not to be administred to any that are out of the visible Church and so strangers from the Covenant of promise till they professe their faith in Christ and obedience to him n Acts 8. 36 37 Acts 2. 38 but Infants descending from parents either both or but one of them professing faith in Christ and obedience to him are in that respect within the Covenant and to be baptized o Gen. 17. 7 9. with Gal. 3. 9 14. and Col. 2. 11 12 and Acts 2 38 39. and Rom. 4. 11 12. 1 Cor. 7 14. Mat. 28. 19. Luk. 18. 15 16. Rom. 11. 16 Q. How is our Baptism to be improved by us A. The needful but much neglected duty of improving our Baptism is to be performed by us all our life long especially in the time of temptation when we are present at the administration of it to others p Col. 2. 11 12 Rom 6. 4. 6 11 by serious thankfull consideration of the nature of it of the ends for which Christ instituted it the priviledges and benefits conferred sealed thereby and our solemn vow made therein q Rom. 6. 3 4 5 by being humbled for our sinful defilement our falling short of walking contrary to the grace of Baptism and our engagements r 1 Cor. 1. 11 12 13 Rom. 6. 2. 3 by growing up to assurance of pardon of sin and of all other blessings sealed to us in that Sacrament Å¿ Rom. 4. 11 12. 1 Pet. 3 21. by drawing strength from the death and resurrection of Christ into whom we are baptized for the mortifying of sin and quickning of grace t Rom 6 3 4. 5 and by end eavouring to live by faith u Gal. 3. 26 2â— to have our conversation in holiness and righteousness w Rom. 6. 22 as those that have therein given up their names to Christ x Acts 2. 38 and to walk in brotherly love as being baptized by the same spirit into one body y 1 Cor. 12 13 25 26 27 Q. What is the Lords Supper A. The Lords Supper is a Sacrament of the New Testament z Luk. 22. 20 wherein by giving receiving bread and wine according to the appointment of Iesus Christ his death is shewed forth and they that worthily communicate feed upon his body and blood to their spirituall nourishment and growth in grace a Mat. 26. 26 27 28 1 Cor. 11. 23 24 25 26 have their union and communion with him confirmed b 1 Cor. 10 16 testifie and renue their thankfulnesse c 1 Cor. 11 24 25 26 and engagement to God d 1 Cor. 10 14 15 16 21 and their mutuall love and fellowship each with other as members of the same mysticall body e Cor. 10. 17 Q. How hath Christ appointed Bread and Wine to be given and received in the Sacrament of the Lords Supper A. Christ hath appointed the Ministers of his word in the administration of the Sacrament of the Lords Supper to set apart the bread and wine from common use by the word of institution thanksgiving and prayer to take and break the bread and to give both the Bread the Wine to the Communicants who are by the same appointment to take and eat the Bread and to drink the Wine in thankfull remembrance that the body of Christ was broken and given and his blood shed for them f Cor. 11 23 24 Mat. 26. 26 27 28 Mar. 14. 22 23 24 Luk. 22. 19 20 Q. How doe they that worthily communicate in the Lords Supper feed upon the body and blood of Christ therein A. As the body and blood of Christ are not corporally or carnally present in with or under the Bread Wine in the Lords Supper g Acts 3. 21 and yet are spiritually present
a father able and ready to help us u Ro. 8 15 Luk 11 13 and that we should pray with and for others w Act 12 5 1 Tim. 2. 1. 2 Q. What do we pray for in the first Petition A. In the first Petition which is Hallowed be thy name x Mat 6 9 we pray that God would enable us and others to glorifie him in all that whereby he maketh himself known y Psal 67 2 3 and that he would dispose all things to his own glory z Psa 83 throughout Q. What do we pray for in the second Petition A. In the second Petition which is Thy Kingdom come a Mat 6. 10 we pray that Satans Kingdom may be destroyed b Psa 68 1 18 and that the Kingdom of Grace may be advanced c Rev 12 10 11 our selves and others brought into it and kept in it d 2 Thess 3 1. Rom 10 1 Ioh. 17 9 20 and that the Kingdom of Glory may be hastened e Rev 22 20 Q. What do we pray for in the third Petition A. In the third Petition which is Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven f Mat. 6 10 we pray that God by his grace would make us able and willing to know obey and submit to his will in all things g Psa 67 throughout Ps 119 36 mat 26 39 2 Sam. 15 25. Iob 1 21 as the Angels do in heaven h Psa 103. 20 21 Q. What do we pray for in the fourth Petition A In the fourth Petition which is Give us this day our dayly bread i Mat. 6. 11 we pray that of Gods free gift we may receive a competent portion of the good things of this life and enjoy his blessing with them k Prov. 30 8 9 Gen. 28 20. 1 Tim 4. 4 5 Q. What do we pray for in the fifth Petition A. In the fisth Petition which is And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debters l Mat. 6. 12 we pray that God for Christs sake would freely pardon all our sins m Psa 51. 1 2 7 9 Dan. 9. 17 18 19 which we are the rather encouraged to ask because by his grace we are enabled from the heart to forgive others n Luk. 11. 4 Mat 18. 15 Q. What do we pray for in the sixth Petition A. In the sixth Petition which is And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil o Mat. 6. 13 we pray that God would either keep us from being tempted to sin p Mat 26 41 or support and deliver us when we are tempted q 2 Cor 12. 1 8 Q. What doth the Conclusion of the Lords Prayer teach us A. The Conclusion of the Lords Prayer which is For thine is the Kingdom and the power and the glory for ever Amen r Mat. 6. 13 teacheth us to take our encouragement in prayer from God onely Å¿ Dan. 9. 4 7 8 9 16 17 18 19. and in our Prayers to praise him ascribing Kingdom power and glory to him t 1 Chro. 29. 10 11 12 13 and in testimony of our desire and assurance to be heard we say Amen u 1 Cor. 14 16. Rev. 22. 20 21 PROPOSITIONS Concerning Church-Government AND ORDINATION OF MINISTERS LONDON Printed for Robert Bostock and are to be sold at his shop at the Kings-head in Pauls Church-yard 1648. TO THE Right Honorable THE Lords Commons Assembled in PARLIAMENT The humble Advice of the Assembly of Divines now sitting by Ordinance of Parliament at Westminster Concerning Church-Government The Preface JEsus Christ upon whose shoulders Isa 9. 6 7 the Government is whose name is called Wonderful Counsellor the Mighty God the everlasting Father the Prince of Peace of the encrease of whose Government and Peace there shal be no end who sits upon the throne of David and upon his Kingdom to order it and to establish it with Judgment Mat. 28. 18 19 20 Eph. 1. 20 21 22 23 compared with Eph. 4 8 11. Psa 68. 18 and Justice from henceforth even for ever having all power given unto him in Heaven and in Earth by the Father who raised him from the dead and set him on his own Right Hand far above all Principalities and Power and Might and Dominion and every Name that is named not only in this World but also in that which is to come and put all things under his feet and gave him to be the head over all things to the Church which is his Body the fulness of him that filleth all in all He being ascended up far above all Heavens that he might fill all things received gifts for his Church and gave offices necessary for the edification of his Church and perfecting of his Saints Of the Church THere is one General Church visible held forth in the New Testament 1 Cor. 12. 12 13 28. together with the rest of the Chapter The Ministry Oracles and Ordinances of the new Testament are given by Jesus Christ to the General Church visible for the gathering and perfecting of it in this life until his second coming 1 Cor. 12 28. Ephes 4. 4 5. compared with vers 10 11 12 13 15 16. of the same Chapter Particular visible Churches Members of the General Church are also held forth in the New Testament Gal. 1. 21 22. Rev. 1. 4. 20. and Rev. 2. 1. Particular Churches in the Primitive times were made up of visible Saints viz. Of such as being of age professed faith in Christ and obdience unto Christ according to the Rule of Faith and Life taught by Christ and his Apostles And of their Children Acts 2. 38 41. Acts 2 vers last compared with Acts 5. 14. 1 Cor. 1. 2. compared with the 2 Corinth 9. 13. Acts 2. 39. 1 Cor. 7. 14. Rom. 11. 16. and so forward Mark 10. 14. compared with Matth. 19. ver 13 14. Luke 18. vers 15 16. Of the Officers of the Church THe Officers which Christ hath appointed for the edification of his Church and the perfecting of the Saints are Some extraordinary as Apostles Evangelists and Prophets which are ceased Others ordinary and perpetual as Pastors Teachers and other Church-Governors and Deacons Pastors THe Pastor is an ordinary and perpetual Officer in the Church Jer. 3. 15 16 17. Prophecying of the time of the Gospel 1 Pet. 5. 2 3 4. Eph. 4. 11 12 13. First It belongs to his office To pray for and with his flock as the mouth of the people unto God Acts 6. 2 3 4. 20. 36 Where Preaching and Prayer are joyned as several parts of the same Office Jam. 5. 14 15. The Office of the Elder that is the Pastor is to pray for the sick even in private to which a blessing is especially promised much more therefore ought he to perform this in the publick execution of his Office as a part thereof 1 Cor. vers 15 16. To read the Scripture
publickly for the proof of which 1. That the Priests and Levites in the Iewish Church were trusted with the publick reading of the Word as is proved Deut. 31 9 10 11. Neh. 8. 1 2 and 13. 2. That the Ministers of the Gospel have as ample a Charge and Commission to dispence the Word as well as other Ordinances as the Priests and Levites had under the Law proved Isa 66. 21. Mat. 23 34. where our Saviour intituleth the Officers of the New Testament whom he will send forth by the same names of the Teachers of the Old Which Propositions prove that therefore the duty being of a moral nature it followeth by just consequence that the publick reading of the Scriptures belongeth to the Pastors Office To feed the Flock by Preaching of the Word according to which he is to teach convince reprove exhort and comfort 1 Tim. 3. 2. 2 Tim. 3. 16 17. Tit. 19. To Chatechise which is a plain laying down the Principles of the Oracles of God Heb. 5. 12. or of the Doctrine of Christ and is a part of Preaching To dispence other divine Mysteries 1 Cor. 4 1 2. To administer the Sacraments Mat. 28 19 20. Mark 16. 15 16. 1 Cor. 11 23 24 25. compareth with 1 Cor. 10. 16. To bless the People from God Num. 6. 23 24 25 26. compared with Rev 14. 5 where the same blessings and Persons from whom they come are expresly mentioned Isai 66. 21. Where under the names of Priests and Levites to be continued under the Gospel are meant Evangelicall Pastors who therefore are by Office to bless the People Deut. 10. 8. 2 Cor. 13 14. Eph. 1. 2. To take care of the Poor Acts 1â— 30. 4. 34 35 36 37. 6. 2 3 4. 1 Cor. 16. 1 2 3 4. Gal. 2 9 10. And he hath also a ruling power over the Flock as a Pastor 1 Tim. 5. 17. Acts 20. 17. and 28. 1 Thes 5 12. Heb. 13. 7. 17. Teacher or Doctor THe Scripture doth hold out the name and title of Teacher as well as of the Pastor 1 Cor. 12. verse 28. Ephes 4. verse 11. Who is also a Minister of the Word as well as the Pastor and hath power of administration of the Sacraments The Lord having given different gifts and divers excercises according to these gifts in the Ministry of the Word Rom. 12. 6 7 8. 1 Cor. 12 1 4 5 6 7. Though these different gifts may meet in and accordingly be exercised by one and the same Minister 1 Cor. 14. 3. 2 Tim. 4. 2. Tit. 1. 9 yet where be several Ministers in the same Congregation they may be designed to several imployments according to the different gifts in which each of them doth most excel Rom 12. 6 7 8. 1 Pet. 4. 10 11. And he that doth more excel in exposition of Scripture in teaching sound Doctrine and in convincing gain sayers then he doth in application and is accordingly imployed therein may be called a Teacher or Doctor the places alledged by the Notation of the Word doth prove the Proposition Nevertheless where is but one Minister in a particular Congregation he is to perform so far as he is able the whole work of the Ministry as appeareth in the 2 Tim. 4. 2. Tit. 1 9 before alledged 1 Tim. 6 2. A Teacher or Doctor is of most excellent use in Schools and Universities as of old in the Schools of the Prophets and at Jerusalem where Gamaliel and others taught as Doctors Oâ—her Church-Governors AS there were in the Jewish Church Elders of the People joyned with the Priests and Levites in the Government of the Church as appeareth in the 2 Chron. 19. 8 9 10. So Christ who hath instituted a Government and Governors Ecclesiastical in the Church hath furnished some in his Church beside the Ministers of the Word with gifts for Government and with commission to execute the same when called thereunto who are to joyn with the Minister in the Government of the Church Rom. 12. 7 8. 1 Cor. 12. 28. which Officers reformed Churches commonly call Elders Deacons THe Scripture doth hold out Deacons as distinct Officers in the Church Phil 1. 1. 1 Tim. 3. 8. whose Office is perpetual 1 Tim. 3. 8. to verse 15. Acts 6. 1 2 3 4. To whose Office it belongs not to preach the Word or administer the Sacraments but to take special care in distributing to the necessities of the poor Acts 6. 1 2 3 4. and the verses following Of particular Congregations IT is lawful and expedient that there be fixed Congregations that is a certain company of Christians to meet in one Assembly ordinarily for publique Worship When Beleevers multiply to such a number that they cannot conveniently meet in one place it is lawful and expedient that they should be divided into distinct and fixed Congregations for the better administration of such Ordinances as belong unto them and the discharge of mutual duties 1 Cor. 14. 26. Let all things be done unto edifying and verses 33. 40. The ordinary way of dividing Christians into distinct Congregations and most expedient for edification is by the respective bounds of their dwellings First Because they who dwell together being bound to all kind of Moral duties Deut. 15 7 11 one to another have the better opportunity thereby to discharge them which Mat. 22. 39 Mat. 5 17 Moral tye is perpetual for Christ came not to destroy the Law but to fulfil it Secondly The Communion of Saints must be so ordered as may stand with the most convenient use of the Ordinances and discharge of Moral duties without respect of persons 1 Cor. 14 26. Let all things be done unto edifying Heb. 10 24 25. James 2. 1 2. Thirdly The Pastor and People must so nearly co-habite together as that they may mutually perform their duties each to other with most conveniency In this company some must be set apart to bear Office Of the Officers of a particular Congregation FOr Officers in a single Congregation there ought to be one at the least both to labour in the Word and Doctrine and to rule Prov. 29 18. 1 Tim. 5 17. Heb 13 7. It is also requisite that there should be others to joyn in Government 1 Cor. 12 28. And likewise it is requisite that there be others to take special care for the relief of the poor Acts 6 2 3. The number of each of which is to be proportioned according to the condition of the Congregation These Officers are to meet together at convenient and set times for the well-ordering of the affairs of that Congregation each according to his Office It is most expedient that in these meetings one whose Office is to labour in the Word and Doctrine do moderate in their proceedings 1 Tim. 5 17. Of the Ordinance in a particular Congregation THe Ordinances in a single Congregation are Prayer Thanksgiving and singing of Psalms 1 Tim. 2 ver 1. 1 Cor. 14 15 16. The Word
as one Flock appeareth Acts 20 17 25 28 30 36 37. 3. That these many Congregations were one Church and that they were under one Presbyterial Government appeareth Rev. 2. the first six verses joyned with Acts 20. 17 18. Of Synodical Assemblies THe Scripture doth hold out another sort of Assemblies for the Government of the Church beside Classical and Congregational all which we call Synodical Acts 15. Pastors and Teachers and other Church Governors as also other fit persons when it shall be deemed expedient are Members of those Assemblies which we call Synodical where they have a lawful Calling thereunto Synodical Assemblies may lawfully be of several sorts as Provincial National and Oecumenical It is lawful and agreeable to the Word of God that there be a subordination of Congregational Classical Provincial and National Assemblies for the Government of the Church Of Ordination of Ministers UNder the head of Ordination of Ministers is to be considered either the Doctrine of Ordination or the Power of it Touching the Doctrine of Ordination NO man ought to take upon him the Office of a Minister of the Word without a lawful Calling John 3. 27. Rom. 10. 14 15 Jer. 14 14. Heb. 5 4. Ordination is always to be continued in the Church Titus 1. 5. 1 Tim. 5. 21 22. Ordination is the solemn setting apart of a person to some publike Church office Numb 8. 10 11 14 19 22. Acts 6 3 5 6. Every Minister of the Word is to be ordained by imposition of hands and Prayer with Fasting by those Preaching Presbyters to whom it doth belong 1 Tim. 5. 22. Acts 14. 23. Acts 13. 3. It is agreeable to the Word of God and very expedient that such as are to be ordained Ministers be designed to some particular Church or other Ministerial charge Acts 14 23. T it 1 5. Acts 20 17 and 28. He that is to be ordained Minister must be duly qualified both for life and Ministerial abilities according to the rules of the Apostle 1 Tim. 3 2 3 4 5 6 and Tit. 1 6 7 8 9. He is to be examined and approved by those by whom he is to be ordained 1 Tim. 3 7 10 and Chap 5 22. No man is to be ordained a Minister for a particular Congregation if they of that Congregation can shew just cause of exception against him 1 Tim. 3 2. Tit. 1 7. Touching the Power of Ordination ORdination is the act of a Presbytery 1 Tim. 4 14. The power of ordering the whole work of Ordination is in the whole Presbytery which when it is over more Congregations then one whether those Congregations be fixed or not fixed in regard of Officers or Members it is indifferent as to the point of Ordination 1 Tim. 4 14. It is very requisite that no single Congregation that can conveniently associate do assume to it self all and sole power in Ordination 1. Because there is no example in Scripture that any single Congregation which might conveniently associate did assume to it self all and sole power in Ordination neither is there any rule which may warrant such a practise 2. Because there is in Scripture example of an Ordination in a Presbytery over divers Congregations as in the Church of Jerusalem where were many Congregations thâ—se many Congregations were under one Presbytery and this Presbytery did ordain The Preaching Presbyters orderly associated either in Cities or neighbouring Villages are those to whom the imposition of Hands doth appertain for those Congregations within their bounds respectively Some other particulars concerning Church Government do yet remain unfinished which shall be with all convenient speed prepared and presented to this honorable House TO THE Right Honorable THE Lords and Commons Assembled in PARLIAMENT The humble Advice of the Assembly of Divines now sitting at Westminster Concerning The Doctrinal part of Ordination of MINISTERS NO man ought to take upon him the office of a Minister of the Word without a lawful calling John 3 27 Rom. 10 14 15. Jer. 14 14. Heb 5 4. Ordination is always to be continued in the Church Titus 1 5 1 Tim. 5 21 22. Ordination is the solemn setting apart of a person to some publick Church Office Numb 8 10 11 14 19 22. Acts 6 3 5 6. Every Minister of the Word is to be ordained by imposition of hands and Prayer with Fasting by these Preaching Presbyters to whom it doth belong 1 Tim. 5 22. Acts 14 23. 13 3. The power of ordering the whole work of Ordination is in the whole Presbytery which when it is over more Congregations then one whether those Congregations be fixed or not fixed in regard of Officers or Members it is indifferent as to the point of Ordination 1 Tim. 4 14. It is agreeable to the Word of God and very expedient that such as are to be ordained Ministers be designed to some particular Church or other Ministerial charge Acts 14 23. Tit. 1 5. Acts 20 17 28. He that is to be ordained Minister must be duly qualified both for life and Ministerial abilities according to the rules of the Apostle 1 Tim. 3. 2 3 4 5 6. Tit. 1. 5 6 7 8 9. He is to be examined and approved of by those by whom he is to be ordained 1 Tim. 3 7 10. 5 22. No man is to be ordained a Minister for a particular Congregation if they of that Congregation can shew just cause of exception against him 1 Tim. 3 2. T it 1 7. Preaching Presbyters orderly associated either in Cities or Neighbouring Villages are those to whom the imposition of hands doth appertain for these Congregations within their bounds respectively 1 Tim. 4. 14. In extraordinary cases something extraordinary may be done until a setled order may be had yet keeping as near as possible may be to the Rule 2 Chron. 29. 34 35 36. 2 Chron. 30. 2 3 4 5. There is at this time as we humbly conceive an extraordinary occasion for a way of Ordination for the present supply of Ministers The Directory for Ordination of Ministers IT being manifest by the Word of God that no man ought to take upon him the Office of a Minister of the Gospel until he be lawfully called and ordained thereunto And that the work of Ordination is to be performed with all due care wisdom gravity and solemnity we humbly tender these Directions as requisite to be observed First He that is to be ordained being either nominated by the people or otherwise commended to the Presbytery for any place must addres himself to the Presbytery and bring with him a Testimonial of his taking the Covenant of the three Kingdoms of his diligence and proficiency in his Studies What degrees he hath taken in the University and what hath been the time of his abode there and withal of his age which is to be twenty four years but especially of his life and conversation Which being considered by the Presbytery they are to proceed to enquire touching the Grace