By the entire Purity of the teaching of God contained in them leading from Sin to Holiness from Earth to Heaven from Death to Life from a carnal State to a Spiritual from Darkness to Light 4. From the wonderful preservation of them that neither Time nor Tyranny could extinguish 5. By the sweet Harmony and Agreement against those Evils that Men are most inclined to commit 6. By the powerful Operation of them in converting Thousands Q. VVherein doth their Profitableness farther appear A. By hiding them in the Heart they keep from Sin and the Path of the Destroyer and are a Means to bring to believe Psal 119.9 Joh. 20.31 Rom. 15.4 1 Joh. 3.9 Q. VVhen there is Faith and Repentance manifested what doth the Scripture require such Men to do in the next place A. They are after the manifestation of Faith and Repentance to be baptized with Water into the Name of Father Son and holy Spirit Mat. 28.19 Mar. 16.16 Act. 2.41 10.48 18.8 Q. In what manner is this Ordinance to be administred A. We find no mention made in Scripture of Sprinkling being the manner but Christ our glorious Pattern came up out of the Water and the Spirit of God lighted on him as a Dove Philip and the Eunuch are said to go down into the Water and when Philip had baptized him they came both up out of the Water Acts 8.39 The Apostle Paul telleth the Saints speaking of the signification of Baptism as also the manner saith Therefore we are buried with him in Baptism and burying is a covering the whole Man putting the Party baptized under the Water Rom. 6.2 Joh. 3.23 Q. VVhat doth Baptism signify A. A death unto Sin a rising unto newness of Life that which the believing Subject ought to have in his mind then and to appear reckoning himself dead to Sin and one minding a new Life afterward Rom. 6.2 7. Col. 2.12 Q. What Privilege or Benefit hath the Believer by being â—aptized with Water into the Lord's Name A. He is in the way to receive the precious Comfort of the Holy Spirit and Remission of his Sins and to have fellowship with the Church in all other good Duties as being a visible Member thereof added by Faith Repentance and Baptism as appears by these Scriptures Acts 2.38 39. 2.41 22.16 Q. How many Baptisms be there A. Three Q. Which be they A. Baptism of Water and of the Spirit and of Afflictions Q. VVho are the Administrators of VVater-Baptism A. Faithful preaching Disciples may administer it to Men and Women Mat. 28.19 Acts 8.37 38. 8.12 22.16 Q. Why may not Infants be baptized seeing it is no where forbidden A. Revealed things belong to us and our Children but we find not that revealed as any part of the Will of God also in doing that in Worship to God which we have neither Precept from God nor Example from Christ is Will-worship and that is forbidden Levit. 10.2 Col. 4.23 Q. VVho are the Administrators of the Baptism of Affliction A. The World and the Devil Rev. 2.10 Q. VVho are the Administrators of the Spirit 's Baptism A. God and Jesus Christ only are the Administrators of that Mat. 3.11 Joel 2.18 Q. VVhat is the Spirit 's Baptism A. It is the extraordinary Measures of the Spirit given from God whereby Persons are enabled to work Miracles speak with Tongues Mat. 3.11 Acts 1.5 compared with Acts 3.4 11.16 17. Q. VVhat are we to look for after this short Life is ended A. Resurrection from the Dead by the wonderful Power of God and made incorruptible and come to Judgment and receive according to the Works done in the Body either eternal Happiness as the End of the Faith of the Lord's People or else eternal Damnation as the just Reward of all those that know not God and obey not the Gospel 1 Pet. 1.9 2 Thess 1.8 Q. VVhat must Men expect in this World in following Christ leaving their vain Conversation and witnessing against the Evil of the Times and Days wherein they live A. They must in living Godly suffer Persecution and expect to have Men lay their Hands on them and put them into Prison scourge them and put them to Death despise their pure holy Profession with names of Blasphemy Heresy Delusion saying all manner of Evil falsly for his Name sake Luke 6.22 24. Acts 24. Q. VVhat is needful then for Men to learn that intend to follow Christ in this Vail of Misery A. Self-denial and Contentation to labour to increase in Faith and Patience to see more in reproach for Christ's sake than in a Kingdom of carnal sinful Delights Heb. 11.24 25. Wisely to sit down and count the Cost Luke 14.27 28. Q. What is or will be the Danger of drawing back from Truth when a Man once professeth it A. They had better they had never known the holy Commandment than after to turn from it they are such in so doing that God's Soul will have no pleasure in they shall also be filled with their own Ways lie open to strong Delusions because they received not the Truth in the love of it such as are unfit for the Kingdom of Heaven and are compared to Dogs returning to their own Vomit and wandring Stars to whom is reserved the Blackness of Darkness for ever Luke 9.42 Psal 125.5 2 Pet. 2.20 2 Thess 2. ch Prov. 14.14 Q. VVhat Duties are the Church of Christ to observe after they are gathered by Faith Repentance Baptism and intend to profess Christ A. They are to assemble together at their appointed Times to edify and build up each other in their most holy Faith to provoke to Love and good Works and not to forsake the assembling of themselves together as the manner of some is Heb. 3.13 10.24 25. Q. What are they to do first of all when they come together A. To agree to make Supplication unto the Lord by Prayer Intercession giving of Thanks for all Men Kings and all that are in Authority that under them we may lead a godly and peaceable Life in all Godliness and Honesty 1 Tim. 2.1 2 3. Q. VVhat is Prayer A. It is a reverend Asking of those Things we need agreeable to the Lord 's holy Will Jam. 5.13 Psal 69.13 Q. VVhat is Intercession A. It is a suing earnestly for Mercy for others unto the Lord Jer. 7.16 Q. VVhat is Thanksgiving A. It is a being seriously sensible of the Mercies of God either Temporal or Spiritual and glorifying of him by praising or giving Thanks unto God for them Luke 2.38 Acts 27.35 Q. In what manner must we pray A. In Faith and Love lifting up pure Hands without Wrath or Doubting 1 Tim. 1.8 Jam. 1.6 Mark 11.25 Q. Is this Duty privately to be observed A. Yea much by every Christian Man to watch unto Prayer to go often about the Work and not to be weary of it solemnly setting apart Time every Day for the Work that he may be kept from
having Dominion over all the earthly Creatures Gen. 1.27 28. Q. What did God give to Adam at the first A. He gave him a pleasant Paradise and a Law That of every Tree in the Garden he might eat but of the Tree of Knowledg of Good and Evil he should not eat for in the Day he eat thereof he should surely die Gen. 2.17 Q. How came Adam to break the Law given unto him A. By the Woman's yielding to the Serpent did take and eat of the forbidden Fruit and she gave to her Husband and he did eat Gen. 3.6 Q. Did Eve being tempted or provoked to eat by the Serpent or Adam by the Woman excuse their Sin A. No for God passeth Sentence upon them both and also upon the Serpent Q. What Misery fell they under as their Punishment A. To the Woman God saith I will greatly multiply thy Sorrows and thy Conceptions in Sorrow shalt thou bring forth Children and thy desire shall be to thy Husband and he shall rule over thee Gen. 3.16 Q. What did God say to Adam A. Because thou hast hearkened to the Voice of thy Wife the Ground shall be cursed for thy sake Thorns and Thistles shall it bring forth thou shalt in the sweat of thy Face eat thy Bread until thou return unto the Dust for Dust thou art and unto Dust thou shalt return He was also ashamed of his Nakedness feared to appear before his Maker turned out of Paradise and Cherubims set to keep the Way of the Tree of Life with flaming Swords that he might not eat thereof lest he live for ever Gen. 3.17 18 19 22 23 24. Q. Here is sad News of Death and Mortality and Pain and losing of a pleasant Paradise How came the happy News of Life immortal and enjoying of a heavenly Paradise A. Through a second Adam Christ Jesus who hath abolished Death and hath brought Life and Immortality unto Light through the Gospel 2 Tim. 1.10 Heb. 2.14 1 Cor. 15.22 Gen. 3.15 Q. What is Jesus Christ A. The Son of God the Saviour of poor lost worthless straying Sinners Q. How may that appear A. By the Wonders wrought at his Conception at his Birth by himself whilst on Earth personally at his Transfiguration at his Baptism at his Death at his Resurrection Q. What was wrought in a miraculous way at his Conception A. Mary with Child by the Holy Ghost and not after any ordinary manner Mat. 1.16 Joseph being espoused unto her thought to put her away not knowing what was done but an Angel appeared to satisfy him and directed him to call his Name Jesus for he should save his People from their Sins Mat. 1.21 Q. What Wonder was done at his Birth A. A Star arose out of the East which the Wise-men followed till it stood still over the Place where the young Child lay Mat. 2.10 Q. What else was done at his Birth A. Their rejoicing and worshipping of him Herod's cruel Design frustrated as relating to the killing of the Babe by the Lord 's appearing unto them in a Dream and sending them another way Mat. 2.12 Q. What else was wonderful A. An Angel appearing unto two Shepherds in great Glory saying Fear not for I bring you glad Tidings which shall be to all People for unto you is born this Day in the City of David a Saviour Christ the Lord. Q. What else was wrought wonderfully at his Birth A. A heavenly Host immediately appearing praising God and saying Glory to God in the Highest on Earth Peace Good-will towards Men Luke 2.9 10 11 12 13 14. Q. What Wonders were wrought in his Life-time A. Disputing with the Doctors at twelve Years of Age rebuking violent Diseases and they departed by the Word of his Mouth Joh. 4.10 turned Water into Wine John 2.9 raised the Dead cleansed the Lepers the Lame walk the Blind see the Deaf hear the Dumb speak Mat. 11.5 Rather than he will give Offence causeth Money to be taken out of a Fish's Mouth Mat. 17.27 Q. What else was wrought by Christ in his Life-time A. The Wind and the Sea obey him and are calm at his Command Mat. 8.26 27. Five thousand fed with five Loaves and two little Fishes Mat. 14.19 20 21. Q. What was wonderful at his Baptism A. The Spirit of God lighting upon him as a Dove as he came out of the Water testifying that he was the Son of God in whom he was well-pleased Mat. 3.16 Also at his being transfigured upon the Mount his Face did shine as the Sun and his Raiment white as the Light a bright Cloud over-shadowed them and a Voice out of the Cloud saying This is my beloved Son in whom I am well-pleased hear ye him Mat. 17.2 Q. What was done at his Death A. The Vail of the Temple rent to signify the End of those Types he being the Substance Heb. 9.11 and Darkness over all the Earth from the 6th Hour to the 9th Hour Luke 23.44 the Earth did quake and the Rocks rent and the Graves were opened and many of the dead Bodies of the Saints which slept arose after his Resurrection and went into the holy City Mat. 27.51 52 53. Q. What Wonders were wrought at his Resurrection A. A great Earthquake an Angel descending from Heaven and came and rolled the Stone from the Door and sat upon it his Countenance like Lightning and his Raiment white as Snow and for fear of him the Keepers did shake and became as dead Men telling the Women that Christ was risen shewing them the Place where the Lord lay and said unto them Go quickly and tell his Disciples he is risen from the Dead Matth. 28.2 3 4 5 6 7. Q. How long was it from his Death to his Ascension A. Forty Days speaking to them of the things concerning the Kingdom of God Act. 1.3 Q. What was done at his Ascension A. Two Men standing by the Disciples in white Apparel testifying that the same Jesus whom they had seen ascend into Heaven should so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into Heaven Acts 1.11 Q. What was done after his Ascension A. The Disciples being together and praying upon the Day of Pentecost they received the Promise of the Spirit and were filled with the Holy Ghost so as that they were able to speak to the understanding of all Nations and Gifts bestowed upon them and others for the Edification of the Church perfecting of the Saints for the Work of the Ministry this appears from these Scriptures Acts 2.3 Eph. 4.8 1 Cor. 12.7 Q. VVhat did the Lord Jesus come into the VVorld to do A. He came to seek and save them that were lost to give the knowledg of Salvation and Remission of Sins to give Light to them that sat in Darkness and the shadow of Death to guide our Feet in the Path of Peace Luk. 19.10 1.77 78 79. 24.47 and to destroy the Works of the Devil 1 John 3.8 Q. How came Man into his
lost miserable Estate A. By Sin Q. VVhat is Sin A. It is the Transgression of the Law Rom. 7.7 1 Joh. 3.4 Q. VVhat Means hath Christ used to seek and save them that are lost A. He hath by the means of Death redeemed us from him that had the Power of Death even the Devil and deliver'd them who thrô fear of Death were all their Life-time subject to Bondage He was wounded for our Iniquities broken for our Transgressions the Chastisement of our Peace was upon him and thrô his Stripes we are healed He poured out his Soul unto Death and made Intercession for Transgressors Q. Did he do this for all Men A. Yea all have like Sheep gone astray and the Lord hath laid upon him the Iniquity of us all Q. How doth it appear that Christ died for all Men A. From the Types under the Law from the Testimony of all the Prophets from the Testimony of an Angel and of the Heavenly Host from the Testimony of Christ and his Holy Apostles Q. How from Types doth it appear that Christ died for all Men A. As the Paschal Lamb being slain was a Sign of Safety and Deliverance to Israel so Jesus Christ is called the Lamb slain from the Foundation of the World and is called the Lamb of God that taketh away the Sins of the World and that saveth all that believe from Wrath to come Rev. 13.8 Joh. 1.29 1 Thess 1.10 Q. How else A. By the brazen Serpent that as truly as it was lifted up by Moses for the healing of all that were stung or bitten so Christ is held forth and lifted up for the comfort of every poor distressed Sinner that whosoever believeth might not perish but have eternal Life John 3.14 15 16. Q. How else by the Manna A. That as the Manna fell for all Israel to gather and be nourished in the eating of it so Jesus Christ came the true Bread from Heaven to give his Flesh for the Life of the World that all those that believe on Jesus Christ and feed on him by Faith might be nourished up to eternal Life John 6.51 Q. How else doth it appear A. By the Testimony of an Angel saying Fear not I bring you glad Tidings which shall be to all People for unto you is born this Day in the City of David a Saviour Christ the Lord Luke 2.10 11 12. Q. How else A. Immediately a Heavenly Host praising God and saying Glory to God in the highest Peace good Will towards Men Luk. 2.13 14. Q. How else doth it appear A. By the Testimony of all the Prophets Acts 10.47 To him give all the Prophets witness that whosoever believeth in him should have remission of Sins Q. How else doth it appear A. From the Testimony of Christ who saith The Bread which I give is my Flesh which I give for the Life of the World John 6.51 By the Testimony of his Apostles who thus judg that if one died for all then they which live should not live to themselves but unto him that died for them and rose again 2 Cor. 5.14 Who say that he by the Grace of God tasted Death for every Man Heb. 2.9 Who gave himself a Ransom for all to be testified in due Time And this Truth Paul was ordained a Preacher of among the Gentiles 1 Tim. 2.6 7. Who say that he is not only a Propitiation for our Sins but for the Sins of the whole World 1 John 2.2 Q. What farther Means doth he use to seek and save them that are lost or are by reason of Sin in a damnable Condition if dying therein A. He rose again for the Justification of poor sinful Man in which he hath given assurance unto Man of his Resurrection and that there is a Day that he must come to Judgment Acts 17.31 Also appointing that the Gospel should be preached to every Creature Mark 16.13 16. Also affording his Spirit to convince Men of Sin if they believe not John 16.8 9. Also by the glorious Benefits of his Ascension did and doth furnish Men with Gifts for the Work of the Ministry to be Ambassadors for Christ to beseech Souls to be reconciled Ephes 4.11 12 2 Cor. 5.19 20. Q. What farther Means doth he use to bring Men to Happiness A. By virtue of his Intercession Vengeance is staid from coming speedily and suddenly upon Men Luke 13.8 Isa 53.12 Also his patient waiting upon Men from time to time Warnings given by his Severity upon some promising Happiness and Eternal Life if they believe and obey threatning Eternal Death and Damnation if they believe not and are disobedient Prov. 1.20 Jer. 13.27 Mat. 11.21 John 3.36 1 Cor. 10.12 Q. Did Jesus Christ die for all Men that they might be saved A. Yea for he complaineth saying Ye will not come unto me that you might have Life and he came not to condemn the World but that the World through him might be saved And John came to bear witness of that Light that all Men through him might believe John 5.40 3.17 1.7 Q. Are Men saved only by the Death of Christ A. They are said to be reconciled by his Death but saved by his Life Rom. 5.10 Q. What is that which renders Men Enemies unto God and under his Wrath A. Evil wicked Works Col. 1.21 Ephes 2.2 11. Q. What are the Works of the Flesh A. Adultery Fornication Uncleanness Lasciviousness Idolatry Witchcraft Hatred Variance Emulation Wrath Strife Sedition Heresies Envying Drunkenness Murders Reviling Q. Shall any such inherit the Kingdom of Heaven A. No. Gal. 5 19 20. 1 Cor. 6.9 Ephes 5.6 Q. Will not Omissions of Good hinder from Eternal Life as well as Commissions of Evil A. Yea for Christ saith the not giving to him when he was an hungry the not clothing of him when he was naked the not visiting of him when he was sick the not coming unto him when he was in Prison he will take this want of Mercy to his little Ones that believe as done to himself and these shall go away into everlasting Destruction Mat. 25.41 42 43. Q. What is required of all Men guilty of committing Evil or omitting Good A. Confessing their Sins before the Lord and being humbled for them with a Resolution to forsake them through a constant watchfulness against them Prov. 28.13 Luk. 24.27 Acts 17.30 2 Cor. 7.10 Q. VVhat Rule hath God left us to guide and direct what to avoid what to believe and what to do A. The Holy Scriptures which are able to make the Man of God wise unto Salvation and to furnish him to every good Work and are profitable for Instruction Correction Comfort Acts 24.14 17.11 2 Tim. 3.16 17. Q. How may it appear that they are the Mind of God for us to walk by A. 1. By the wonderful Miracles wrought to confirm the Words spoken by Christ and his Apostles and Prophets recorded therein 2. By the constant fulfilling of the Prophecies and Promises therein contained 3.
Bishops and Deacons Titus 1.6 Q In what manner are they to be chosen that are to be Elders or Bishops Q. They solemnly are to apply themselves by Prayer and Fasting unto the Lord for direction whom to chuse and as near as they can appoint such Men in the Work that are qualified for it and sutably gifted to feed the Flock with wholsome sound Doctrine then to ordain them by the laying on of the Hands of the Eldership Acts 14.23 13.2 3. 1 Tim. 4.14 1 Tim. 3. Q. VVhat is the Work chiefly of the Elders A. To feed the Flock of God over which the Holy Ghost hath made them Overseers to watch for their Souls as one that must give an Account for them Heb. 13.17 to provide seasonable Matter for them both for Instruction Correction and Comfort and to labour to hold forth sound Doctrine by a due Study and premeditating upon the Will of God 1 Tim. 4.15 2 Tim. 2.15 Mat. 24.45 And so giving every one their Portion in due Season being Patterns or Ensamples to the Flock 1 Pet. 5.1 2 3. Q. Are the Deacons to be ordained by laying on of Hands A. Yea so was the Example Acts 6.6 Q. What is to be done in order to chuse them A. Their Qualifications are to be minded on the Churches part and as near as they can to chuse Men according to the Pattern 1 Tim. 3.8 Q. VVhat is their Work A. To over see the Poor faithfully and carefully to distribute the Church's Contribution that the Poor may not justly complain Act. 6.1 2. Q. What Care ought the Church to take of them that labour in the Word and Doctrine A. To account them worthy of double Honour not to receive evil Thoughts of them without just Cause nor any Accusation against an Elder without two Witnesses and to obey them in their ruling according to Christ's own Word 1 Tim. 5.17 19. Heb. 13.17 Q. What further are they to do A. They that are taught in the Word are to communicate to him that teacheth in all good Things according as they shall be made free by the Power of the Gospel Gal. 6.6 Phil. 4.17 Q. Are they thus to be contented to Labour A. Yea and when the chief Shepherd shall appear they shall receive a Crown of Life if Faithful Free Ready Constant Humble in the doing of their Work 1 Pet. 6.2 3 4. So was Paul's Charge to the Elders Acts 20. as also his own Example Acts 20.33 34. Q. VVhat is the Duty of Saints in Affliction A. To pray for Mercy to exercise Patience to examine themselves to loath their Sin with a Resolution to turn from it Jam. 5.14 Lam. 3.40 Job 24.31 Joh. 5.14 Q. VVhat are they to do further A. They are to send for the Elders of the Church and they are to pray over them anointing them with Oil in the Name of the Lord. And there is a two-fold Promise First That the Prayer of Faith shall save the Sick Secondly That if he have committed Sin it shall be forgiven him Jam. 5.14 15 16. This Promise of Recovery must be considered if God have not otherwise determined for it is appointed for Men once to die and if Recovery should always be of sick Members then none in the Church should die Q. VVas this ever practised by Christ's Disciples c. A. Yea they anointed with Oil in the Name of the Lord many that were Sick and healed them Mark 6.13 Although there be no more in the Oil than there was in the brazen Serpent yet being commanded by the Lord there is Virtue in it and God's Promise is to his own Way Therefore let none despise and run out of God's Way as Asa did 2 Chron. 16.12 13. Q. VVhat are Persons to do when merry A. They are to sing Psalms and Spiritual Songs according to their sensibleness of the Lord's Mercy to themselves or the Church of God and to speak forth their Experiences of God's Goodness Mercy either Spiritually or Temporally enjoyed for the Praise of God for the raising up each others Hearts Exod. 15.12 Isa 26.1 Jude 5. Luke 2.29 Q. Is Singing giving of Thanks Praising Blessing God all one A. Yea the Apostle's words make it so appear 1 Cor. 14.15 16 17. Q. What are Christians Duty to all Men A. To do to all Men as they would be done by Mat. 7.12 Luk. 6.31 Q. VVhat is their Duty to Enemies A. To pray for them that persecute them to do good to them that hate them to bless them that curse them to feed if hungry if thirsty to give them Drink Rom. 12.20 Mat. 5.44 Q. How must they learn this Duty A. By considering that Christ laid down his Life for them while Enemies Rom. 5.8 by a serious consideration that God would have Love and Mercy shewed to them that are Evil that Saints might be like God that Men might that way be provoked to turn unto the Lord and if not provoked by the Lord's Patience and Mercy nor his Peoples it will justly make their Torments insupportable Mat. 5.45 Rom. 12.20 even as sad as Coles of Fire upon the Head Q. What are Christians Duty to Magistrates A. To obey them in all things commanded by them that are not contrary to the Law of the Almighty God not for Wrath but for Conscience sake Q. VVhat must we do when we cannot actually obey A. Patiently suffering as did the three Children Daniel Paul and Silas Peter and John when Governours required that to be done which God forbad or commanded that to be avoided that God enjoined Rom. 13.5 Acts 4.19 16.21 23. Dan. 3.16 17 18. 6.10 Q. How are Men elected or chosen by the Lord A. They are said to be chosen in Christ before the Foundation of the World Ephes 1.4 1 Pet. 1.2 Q. How are Men in Christ A. By Faith Rom. 11.20 23. Q. How then cometh Faith A. By hearing the Word preached Rom. 10.17 Q. How comes the Word of Remission of Sins and eternal Life to be preached A. By the Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ Q. How came Jesus Christ to die for our Sins A. It was the Lord's free Love in sending him into the World John 3.16 Luke 24.47 1 Cor. 15.13 14 15. Q. But seeing Men are chosen through the sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the Truth as 2 Thess 2.13 How then are they chosen in him before the Foundation of the World A. In the Purpose of God they that believe are his Chosen Q. How make you that appear A. God calleth things that are not as tho they were Rom. 4.17 And so he said to Abraham I have made thee a Father of many Nations yet not the Father of one Child at that time but Ishmael Gen. 17.5 but not of Isaac in whom his Seed should be called Rom. 9.7 Q. How doth it farther appear that Men are Elect according to the foreknowledg of God thrô Sanctification of the Spirit unto Obedience 1 Pet. 1.2 and yet
are said to be chosen before the Foundation of the World in Christ A. Christ is called a Lamb slain from the Foundation of the World yet not slain many thousand Years after till he was a Man in the Flesh so Men are said to be chosen in Christ before the Foundation of the World yet not chosen till they have the Sanctification of the Spirit and believe the Truth 2 Thess 2.13 He hath set apart the Godly for himself Psal 4.3 Q. How are Men said to be ordained of old to Condemnation A. Not as Men but as wicked ungodly Men who turn the Grace of God into Wantonness denying our Lord Jesus Christ and the only Lord God Jude 4. Q. How doth this farther appear A. Because that God manifesteth upon Oath that he desireth not the Death of a Sinner but that he may turn and live Q. How doth it appear that God doth not ordain any to Destruction but as they are wicked and abuse his Grace A. By his lamenting the Ruin of them that have perished and had the things hid from their Eyes that pertain to their everlasting Peace Matth. 23.37 Luke 19.41 42. Also by the Lord minding that Man's Destruction is of himself Hos 13.9 Acts 13.46 Also for this Cause God shall send them strong Delusions and for this Cause he gave them up to vile Affections so that there was a Cause of their Ruin when they had a being and not before they had a being 2 Thess 2.10 11. Rom. 1.14 Psal 81.10 11. Q. What are Childrens Duty towards their Parents A. Children obey your Parents in all things for this is well-pleasing unto the Lord Col. 3.20 compared with Ephes 6.1 2. Exod. 20.12 Q. What is the Danger of disobeying slighting or making light of Parents A. Some eminent Judgments have taken hold of those that have so done and it doth much provoke the Lord. Q. What Judgments have fallen upon Children for making light of their Parents A. Ham the Father of Canaan for his Contempt of his Father Noah was cursed and was Servant to the rest of his Brethren Gen. 9.22 23 27. Q. What else befel disobedient Children A. He that smote his Father or he that cursed or reviled his Father was according to the Law of God to be put to Death Exod. 21.15 17. His Lamp to be put out in obscure Darkness that curseth Father or Mother Prov. 20.20 Q. How doth it appear that some eminent Judgment is likely to fall on them A. The Eye that mocketh at his Father and despiseth to obey his Mother the Ravens of the Valley shall pick it out and the young Eagles shall eat it Prov. 30.17 Disobedience to Parents is reckoned up among the Sins that God hath punished Ezek. 22.7 14. among the Sins that God will punish and that which makes the Days with other Evils perilous 2 Tim. 3.2 Q. Are Parents to be obeyed in any thing actually that contradicts the Mind of the Father of Spirits A. In this respect we must honour God more than Father or Mother or Governours as Christ saith Call no Man Father for one is your Father which is in Heaven Mat. 23.9 Q. What Privilege have those Children that are obedient to their Parents in the Lord A. It is called the first Commandment with Promise Ephes 6.3 God blessed the Rekabites the Sons of Jonadah and honoured them highly because they did not violate their Father's Command but observed it Jer. 35.5 6 7 8 9 compared with the 18 19 verses Q. What was done to the Children that mocked the Prophet because of his bald Head A. They were cursed and two Bears came forth out of the Wood and slew forty two Children 2 Kings 2.23 24. Q. What may this Judgment of God teach Parents A. Much to caution and instruct their Children to take heed of despising reproaching or mocking any though wanting any thing in Person or Substance that others enjoy Q. What was done to Gehazi for Covetousness and Lying A. The Leprosy of Naaman the Syrian clave to him and his Seed for ever and he went out white as a Leper 2 King 5.25 27. Q. What was done to Ananias and Saphira for lying A. They fell down both dead at the Apostles Feet Acts 5.1 2 3. Q. What must be the Portion of Liars A. They shall have their part in the Lake of Fire and Brimstone that tormenteth for ever and ever Rev. 21.8 Q. What did Moses say to the Brethren that strove with each other A. Rebuked them saying Wherefore smitest thou thy Fellow And Abraham said to Lot when their Herdsmen were at strife Let there be no Strife between me and thee for we be Brethren Exod. 2.13 Gen. 13.8 It was the Charge of Joseph to his Brethren saying See that you fall not out by the way Gen. 49.24 Q. VVhat is the Duty of Servants to their Masters A. Servants be subject to your Masters with all fear not only to the Good and Gentle but also to the Froward 1 Pet. 2.18 19 20 21. Q. But what Service ought a Person to perform to those whom he engageth to serve A. Diligently faithfully humbly behaving himself in his outward Business avoiding Eye-service purloyning or taking little Matters without Consent or Knowledg of his Master or stubbornly answering again or despising or slighting of them because they are Brethren Ephes 6.6 7 8. 1 Tim. 6.1 Titus 2.9 10. Q VVhat Encouragement hath a Servant to be subject to the Froward to be Faithful to be Humble Diligent avoiding Eye-service not answering again A. The Grace of God in sending his Son to die teacheth those Lessons Titus 2.11 also knowing that whatsoever good Thing any Man doth the same he shall receive of the Lord whether Bond or Free Also the Law of Equity which the Law of God gives a being unto would have Servants do as they would be done by and so Masters to deal by their Servants as they would have their own Children when they come to be Servants dealt by considering those words Mat. 7.2 Mark 4.24 What measure you meet shall be measured to you again Therefore let Master and Servant Father and Child all prepare according to the Measures of Knowledg received doing the Will of God from the Heart And this shall be the Conclusion of the Matter Fear God and keep his Commandments for this is the whole Duty of Man Eccles 12.13 Remember thy Creator in the Days of thy Youth say daily What am I what do I whither go I Thy last Hour and Eternal Judgment do not forget THE END APPENDIX May 1693. BEing desired by Brethren to reprint this short Catechism and moved thereto at the Association of several Messengers and Elders assembled together at Nantwich April 19 1693. And looking upon my poor Endeavours to be far short of what might be done in order to the instructing of Youth and what some have done yet in answer to the desire of that Christian Assembly and the fervent Desires of many in
as to be mindful of the Words of the Holy Prophets 2 Pet. 3.2 which are by faithful Men to be kept till the coming and appearing of Jesus Christ 1 Tim. 5.21 6.13 14. Rev. 3.10 John 20.31 Labour to have such a Faith that leads to conformity to Christ both in Heart and Life For the Devils believe there is a God a Christ and they tremble at God's infinite Power and Majesty And you young Men and Women under the Riches of his Goodness and believing the unsearchableness of his Mercy and Grace in a dear Saviour bestowed on you are concerned greatly to obey him consideringthat he will shortly come in flaming Fire to render Vengeance upon all those that under his Calls of Grace matter not See 2 Thess 1.8 Rom. 2.4 Doth he say He that believes and is baptized shall be saved and he that believes not shall be damned If Baptism be that which is to follow Faith do not slight Christ in that Duty Cornelius is promised by the holy Angel that in sending for Peter he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do Acts 10.5 6. You find Peter commands Water-Baptism to those that had received the extraordinary Measures of God's Spirit Consider Acts 10.47 So that this may be fairly concluded that angels are subservient to the Gospel Ministration For Peter had with the rest of the Apostles the Commission of Christ given to them by him that had all Power in Heaven and Earth Matth. 28.19 20. So Saul after the Lord met him as he was going to persecute the People of God and upon his Question Who art thou Lord The Answer is I am Jesus O Jesus a Saviour and thou persecutest me in my Members and Followers Upon hearing this Voice he falleth down trembling and saith Lord what wouldest thou have me to do Go to Ananias he shall tell the what thou must do Ananias had a Vision and is by the Lord sent unto Saul and directed unto the Street and to the House even to Judas to enquire for one Saul of Tarsus who was observed by the Lord to e praying See Acts 9.6 compared with ver 10 11. and when he came laid his Hands on him and telleth him Jesus that appeared to him by the Way sent him to him that he might receive his Sight and be filled with the Holy Ghost And immediately there fell Scales from his Eyes and he received Sight forthwith and arose and was Baptized Acts 9.18 compared with Acts 22.16 O Souls you that have not yet conformed to this blessed Duty you are greatly concerned to put on a holy Profession of Christ by submitting to holy Baptism Gal. 3.27 and minding the Errand of that holy Duty all your Days viz. a dying to Sin and rising to newness of Life Rom. 8.1 2 3. Col. 2.12 For if Baptism be submitted to and not the End or Errand of it minded it is like a Sword of a Magistrate without Justice and like a Sign without having any thing within for the Church of England say right That Baptism is an outward Sign of inward Grace but none of this they can behold in an Infant that they say is by Name a Child of Wrath or many of them say so it is like Seals without minding the Conditions specified or like a Souldier listing himselfe under his Captain and after refusing his Commands in fighting against his Enemies which things will not be born by Men. O Souls do not slight the Will of God in point of Duty in this respect and all others commanded by your Lord for know That Faith without Works is dead And would you be content with a dead Faith in a dying Hour and in the Day of your Account Consider James 2.19 compared with the 26th Verse I speake the more to this Duty because some have changed both the Subject and the Manner Others cry down this and other Ordinances as if ceased Others live below what they profess in this righteous Service I could say much to the Danger of falling under such Delusions which the good Lord keep you from Surely we may cry out with the Prophet It 's time Lord for thee to work for Men make void thy Law Therefore mind those Duties that relate to that blessed Privilege of having a Place in God's House for they are blessed that dwell there Psal 27.4 84.4 Acts 2.42 Esteem others better than your selves walk humbly prize Gospel-Opportunities slight not assembling with the Church of Christ Heb. 10.22 23. Labour after such a Faith that pacifieth the Heart I may assure you in the Fear of God and in the Truth of God this is also a Faith of a right kind Acts 15.10 When the Faith you have in Christ in dying for your Sins leads you and works Death in you to your Sins it is Faith of a saving Nature Titus 2.11 14. Gal. 1.4 O Souls when there is such a Faith that believes Promises and Prophecies though Providence seem to contradict them as if such things should never be Rom. 4.17 18. O Souls consider of the Necessity of Faith It 's that which laying hold on the Blood of Christ justifieth Rom. 5.1 It 's that which overcometh the World and the Devil Joh. 5.5 I Pet. 5.3 It 's that which will assure you of Eternal Life Joh. 3.16 1 Joh. 5.20 It 's Faith in Christ that makes your Prayers acceptable with God James 1.6 1 John 3.22 23. It 's that which is the just Man's Life Heb. 10.38 It 's that which is the poor Man's Riches James 2.5 It 's that which makes good Works acceptable and rewardable Heb. 11.4 And without Faith it 's impossible to please God Heb. 11.6 IV. Consider the sad State of not believing with a Faith of a right Kind 1. No Remission of Sins O dreadful is that Soul's State that dieth an Unbeliever the Wrath of God abides on him John 3.36 2. No Relation to God as a Son without Faith O to come to a Death-bed and to Judgment and be no Child of God by Faith in Christ Jesus will be dreadful 3. No access to God nor no acceptance with God without Faith Heb. 11.6 4. No resisting of Satan without Faith 1 Pet. 5.9 Unbelief slights Christ as Priest Prophet and King Matters not his Blood to cleanse the foul Soul nor his Righteousness to clothe thy naked Soul it lays thee open to the Motions of the Devil to his Instruments in all obscene lewd filthy Words and Actions dreadful Intemperance Lying Swearing Deceit Hypocrify Envy Wrath and all manner of Pride Vain-glory c. listening to the Apostles of the Devil Factors of Hell in their filthy flesh-pleasing Songs and prophane Ballads and all the black Guard that wait on the Devil rejoice at thy not mattering what he commands and canst run into what he forbids 5. Unbelief makes God a Liar O woful Impudence He that believeth not God hath made him a Liar because he believeth not the Record he gave of his Son 1 John
your own Hearts What am I what do I whither go I O Souls as it is the Wisdom of Men to set their House in order and to make their Wills in disposing of what they have so let it be thy Work to set thy Heart in order that thou mayest have nothing to do but to die when thou comest to struggle with thy last Enemy and Time must be here no longer O remember the golden Sands of Time are running out apace and the Glass of Time will never be turned till it be turned in eternal Weal or Wo. XI Consider of Judgment to come O Soul if Death take thee Secure Carnal Hypocritical Murmuring unfaithful to thy Light Disobedient or Lukewarm or a Backslider or Covetous or a Complier with some secret Sins as Death takes you so Judgment will find you and all the Manifestations of God to you shall be discovered when the Books shall be opened And no sooner the Judg shall speak but Conscience shall say True Lord and God himself will be a swift Witness against thy secret Sins not repented of Act. 3.19 Mal. 3.5 Remember this was one great Doctrine that the Apostles of our Lord were to preach and testify That it was he that was ordained of God to be the Judg of Quick and Dead Acts 10.42 O young Man remember for the Desire of thine Eyes and the Way of thine Heart for these things God will bring thee into Judgment Eccles 11.9 O Christians grudg not one against another yea behold the Judg stands at the Door Jam. 5.9 Have fervent Charity one to another that is the Bond of Perfectness and be diligent that ye may be found of him in Peace without spot and blameless 2 Pet. 3.14 Mat. 18.34 35. O do not hide your Talents but improve your Measures given and remember it will be sad to have that Sentence pass Take that unprofitable Servant cast him into utter Darkness there shall be weeping and gnashing of Teeth Mat. 25.30 O forget not to think of his appearing that will certainly render to every one according to his Works Mat. 16.27 Rev. 22.12 O Soul think oft of that Jesus that died for you will shortly come to judg you the last Trump sounding the Judg descending holy Angels attending Graves opening the Dead rising Hypocrites Unbelievers disobedient Persons weeping wailing secret Counsels of all Hearts shall be discovered Therefore live in this present Day with a holy preparation for that Day in taking heed to thy Thoughts 1 Cor. 4.5 Eccles 12.14 Take heed to thy Words Mat. 12.36 O take heed of idle Words Swear not at all it 's forbidden Mat. 5.34 Jam. 5.12 Take heed of Lying Cursing Backbiting Railing Grievous Words stir up Wrath Prov. 15.1 Look to your Actions and do not omit what God commands nor dare to commit what he forbids Eternal Judgment is a Christian Principle Heb. 6.2 And now that ye may be helped to mind these things I come to the last thing propounded and that is Prayer XII O poor young Man hast thou cause to flee youthful Lusts to follow after Righteousness Faith Charity Peace and keep such Company as call on God out of a pure Heart 1 Tim. 2.11 Hast thou poor Soul a Devil to resist a World to over come some Corruptions to mortify a deceitful Heart to watch over a Gospel to obey a Kingdom to obtain O Souls watch and pray make Conscience of secret Prayer and be earnest for those things Jabez begged of God 1 Chron. 4.10 For your encouragement remember He that seeks God early shall find him O a blessed Promise Prov. 8.17 Pray earnestly for the divine Operations of the holy Spirit with the blessed Fruits of it Christ hath promised if they that are evil know how to give good things to their Children how much more shall your heavenly Father give his Spirit to them that ask it Luke 11.13 O pray for Wisdom as Servants to discharge your Duty in your Places that the Name and Doctrine of God be not blasphemed O pray for Wisdom as Freemen that you may always be concerned in serving God in true Holiness and Righteousness all your Days O pray for a Faith of a right kind and say as the Apostles Lord increase our Faith mind what Christ hath done is a doing and will do As to a married State pray for Wisdom to discharge your relative Duties Husband to Wife and Wife to Husband living in the Fear of God As to your State unmarried devote your selves so much the more to wait on and serve the Lord if Virgin Disciples as John the beloved Disciple is said by some Authors to be and holy Paul If in a prosperous Condition beg a humble thankful charitable Heart remembring you are Stewards for God And as to your State in meeting with Adversity beg Patience Contentment admire the least Mercy under the greatest Misery Lam. 3.22 As to your State if persecuted beg Wisdom Courage Constancy of him that gives Strength to them that have no Might As to your Duty in preparing for Death O pray that you may have your Light shining your Lamps burning and you like Men waiting for the coming of the Lord and be filled with his Spirit waiting praying for the blessed Influences of the Spirit of God upon your Souls using all the means you can to obtain it And if Messengers hearing that you have received the Word pray for you that you may receive the Holy Ghost join heartily with them and in laying gentle Hands on you if you receive more of the Spirit you will be more for the Honour of God the Comfort of your Brethren and walk as Lights in the World and be as Salt in the Earth O labour to have Salt in your selves and Peace one with another Mark 9.50 I shall close up this little Matter with those words 1 Pet. 1.17 If you call on the Father who without respect of Persons judgeth according to every Man's Work pass the time of your sojourning here in fear Yea give all diligence to those seven things that lead to the Kingdom 2 Pet. 1. consider 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 verses And labour to live so as you may wish when your Eyes come to be closed and when you come to Judgment Eccles 11.9 12.14 And pray for the Lord's Labourers and I will beg that Truth may live in your Souls when I am dead and may shortly meet those that fear God and keep his Commandments in never-ending Glory FINIS