people for his name and to this agree the words of the Prophets as it is written After this I will return and build again the Tabernacle of David which is fallen down and I will build again the ruines thereof and I will set it up Isai 55. 4 5. Behold I have given him for a witness to the people a leader and commander to the people Behold thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the Lord thy God and for the holy One of Israel for he hath glorified thee Gen. â—9 10. The scepter shall not depart from Judah nor a law-giver from between his feet until Shiloh come and unto him shall the gathering of the people be Psal 110. 3. Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power in the beauties of holiness from the womb of the morning thou hast the dew of thy youth and giving them officers g Eph. 4. 11 12. And he gave some Apostles and some Prophets and some Evangelists and some Pastors and Teachers for the perfecting of the Saints for the work of the Ministery for the edifying of the body of Christ. 1 Cor. 12. 28. And God hath set some in the Church first Apostles secondarily Prophets thirdly Teachers after that Miracles then gifts of healings helps governments diversities of tongues Laws h Isai 33. 22. For the Lord is our judge the Lord is our Law-giver the Lord is our King he will save us and Censures by which he visibly governs them i Mat. 18. 17 18. And if he shall nâ—glect to hear them tell it to the Church but if he neglect to hear the Church let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a Publican Verily I say unto you Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven 1 Cor. 5. 4 5. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ when ye are gathered togâ—ther and my spirit with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ To deliver such a one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh that the Spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus in bestowing saving grace upon his elect k Act. 5. 31. Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour for to give repenâ—ance to Israel and forgiveness of sins rewarding their obedience l Rev. 22. 12. And behold I come quickly and my reward is with me to give every man according as his work shall be Rev. 2. 10. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer behold the Devil shall cast some of you into prison that ye may be tried and ye shall have tribulation ten dayes be thou faithful unto death and I will give thee a crown of life and correcting them for their sins m Rev. 3. 19. As many as I love I rebuke and chasten be zealous therefore and repent preserving and supporting them under all their temptations and sufferings n Isai 63. 9. In all their affliction he was afflicted and the Angel of his presence saved them in his love and in his pity he redeemed them and he bare them and carried them all the dayes of old restraining and overcoming all their enemies o 1 Cor. 15. 25. For he must reign till he have put all his enemies under his feet Psal 110. throughout The Lord said unto my Lord Sit thou at my right hand untill I have made thine enemies thy footstool to the end and powerfully ordering all things for his own glory p Rom. 14. 10 11. But why dost thou judge thy brother or why dost thou set at naught thy brother We shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ For it is written As I live saith the Lord every knee shall bow to me and every tongue shall confess to God and their own good q Rom. 8. 28. We know that all things work together for good to them who love God to them who are the called according to his purpose and also in taking vengeance on the rest who know not God and obey not the Gospel r 2 Thess 1. 8 9. In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his power Psal 2. 8 9. Ask of me and I shall give thee the Heathen for thine inheritance and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession Thou shalt break them with a rod of Iron thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potters vessel Q. What was the state of Christs humiliation A. The estate of Christs humiliation was that low condition wherein he for our sakes emptying himself of his glory took upon him the form of a servant in his Conception and Birth Life Death and after his death untill his resurrection Å¿ Phil. 2. 6 7 8. Who being in the form of God thought it no robbery to be equal with God but made himself of no reputation and took upon him the form of a servant and was made in the likeness of men and being found in fashion as a man he humbled himself and became obedient unto death even the death of the Cross Luke 1. 31. And behold thou shalt conceive in thy womb and bring forth a son and shalt call his name Jesus 2 Cor. 8. 9. For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ that though he was rich yet for your sakes he became poor that ye through his poverty might be rich Acts 2. 24. Whom God hath raised up having loosed the pains of death because it was not possible that he should be holden of it Q. How did Christ humble himself in his Conception and Birth A. Christ humbled himself in his Conception in that being from all eternity the Son of God in the Bosom of the Father he was pleased in the fulness of time to become the Son of Man made of a Woman of low estate and to be born of her with divers Circumstances of more then ordinary abasement t Joh. 1. 14-18 And the Word was made Flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld his glory the glory as of the onely begotten of the Father full of grace and truth V. 18. No man hath seen God at any time the onely begotten Son which is in the bosome of the Father he hath declared him Gal. 4. 4. But when the fulness of time was come God sent forth his Son made of a woman made under the Law Luke 2. 7. And she brought forth her first born Son and wrapped him in swadling-clothes and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them in the Inne Q. How did Christ humble himself in his life A. Christ humbled himself in his life by subjecting himself to the
that prophecy in my Name and I sent them not yet they say c. Rom. 10. 15. And how shall they preach except they be sent as it is written How beautiful c. Heb. 5. 4. And no man taketh this honour unto himself but he that is called of God as was Aaron 1 Cor. 12. 28 29. And God hath set some in the Church first Apostles secondarily Prophets thirdly Teachers after that Miracles then gifts of healing Helps Governments diversities of tongues v. 29 Are all Apostles are all Pâ—opets are all Teachers are all workers of Miracles 1 Tim. 3. 10. And let these also first be proved then let them use the office of a Deacon being found blameless 1 Tim. 4. 14. Neglect noâ— the gift that is in thee which was given thee by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the Presbytery 1 Tim. 5. 22. Lay hands suddenly on no man neither be partaker of other mens sins c. 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 But speak thou the things that become sound doctrine v. 8. Sound speech that cannot be condemned that he who is of the contrary part may be ashamed having no evil thing to say of you diligently (n) Act. 18. 25. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord and being servent in the Spirit he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord c. in season and out of season (o) 2 Tim. 4. 2. Preach the word be instant in season out of season rebuke reprove exhort with all long suffering and doctrine plainly (p) 1 Cor. 14. 19. Yet in the Church I had rather speak five words with my understanding that by my voice I might teach others also then ten thousand words in an unknown tongue not in the enticing words of mans wisdom but in demonstration of the Spirit and power (q) 1 Cor. 2. 4. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of mans wisdom but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power faithfully (r) Jer. 23. 28. The Prophet that hath a dream let him tell a dream and he that hath my word let him speak my word faithfully What is the chaff to the wheat saith the Lord 1 Cor 4. 1 2. Let a man so account of us as of the ministers of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God v. 2. Moreover it is required in stewards that a man be found faithful making known the whole counsel of God (Å¿) Act. 20. 27. For I have not shunned to declare unto you the whole counsel of God wisely (t) Col. 1. 28. Whom we preach warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus 2 Tim. 2. 15. Study to shew thy self approved unto God a workman that needeth not to be ashamed rightly dividing the word of truth applying themselves to the necessities and capacities of the hearers (u) 1 Cor. 3. 2. I have sed you with milk and not with meat for hitherto ye were not able to bear it neither yet now are ye able Heb. 5. 12 13 14. For when for the time ye ought to be teachers ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the Oracles of God and are become such as have need of milk and not of strong meat v. 13. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness for he is a babe v. 14. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil Luk. 12. 42. And the Lord said Who then is that faithful and wise steward whom his Lord shall make ruler over his houshold to give them their portion of meat in due season zealously (*) Act. 18. 25. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord and being fervent in the Spirit he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord c. with fervent love to God (x) 2 Cor. 5. 13 14. For whether we be besides our selves it is to God or whether we be sober it is for your cause v. 14. For the love of Christ constraineth us because we thus judge that if one dyed for all then were all dead Phil. 1. 15 16 17. Some indeed preach Christ out of envy and strife and some also of good will v. 16. The one preach Christ of contention not sincerely supposing to adde affliction to my bonds v. 7. But the other of love knowing that I am set for the defence of the Gospel and the souls of his people (y) Col. 4. 12. Epaphras who is one of you a servant of Christ saluteth you alwayes labouring servently for you in prayers that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God 2 Cor. 12. 15. And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you though the more abundantly I love you the less I be loved sincerely (z) 2 Cor. 2. 17. For we are not as many who corrupt the word of God but as of sincerity but as of God in the sight of God speak we in Christ 2 Cor. 4. 2. But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty not walking in craftiness nor handling the word of God deceitfully but by manifestation of the truth commending our selves to every mans conscience in the sight of God aiming at his glory (a) 1 Thes 2. 4 5 6. But as we are allowed of God to be put in trust with the Gospel even so we speak not as pleasing men but God who tryeth the hearâ—s v. 5. For neither at any time used we flattering words as ye know not a cloak of covetousness God is witness v. 6. Nor of men sought we glory neither of you nor yet of others when we might have been burdensome as the Apostles of Christ Joh. 7. 18. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory but he that seeketh his glory that sent him the same is true and no unrighteousness is in him and their conversion (b) 1 Cor. 9. 19 20 21 22. For though I be free from all men yet have I made my self servant unto all that I might gain the more v. 20. And unto the Jewes I became as a Jew that I might gain the Jewes to them that are under the Law as under the Law that c. v. 21. To them that are without Law as without Law that c. v. 22. To the weak became I as weak that I might gain the weak I am made all things to all men c. edification (c) 2 Cor. 12 19. Again think you that we excuse our selves unto you we speak before God in Christ but we do all things dearly beloved for
done on earth as it is in heaven Give us this day our daily bread And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debters And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory for ever Amen The CREED I BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty maker of heaven and earth And in Jesus Christ his onely Son our Lord which was conceived by the holy Ghost born of the Virgin Mary suffered under Pontius Pilate was crucified dead and buried he descended into hell * i. e. Continued in the state of the dead and under the power of death till the third day the third day he rose again from the dead he ascended into heaven and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead I believe in the holy Ghost the holy Catholick Church the Communion of Saints the forgiveness of sins the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting Amen SO much of every Question both in the Larger and Shorter Catechism is repeated in the Answer as maketh every Answer an entire Proposition or sentence in it self to the end the Learner may further improve it upon all occasions for his encrease in knowledge and piety even out of the course of catechising as well as in it And albeit the substance of the doctrine comprised in that Abridgement commonly called The Apostles Creed be fully set forth in each of the Catechismes so as there is no necessity of inserting the Creed it self yet it is here annexed not as though it were composed by the Apostles or ought to be esteemed Canonical Scripture as the Ten Commandments and the Lords Prayer much less a Prayer as ignorant people have been apt to make both it and the Decalogue but because it is a brief sum of the Christian faith agreeable to the Word of God and anciently received in the Churches of Christ Cornelius Burges Prolocutor pro tempore Henry Roborough Scriba Adoniram Byfield Scriba 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 the Government is whose name is called Wonderful Counsellour the Mighty God the Everlasting Father the Prince of Peace of the encrease of whose Government and Peace there shall be no end who sits upon the throne of David and upon his Kingdome to order it and to establish it with Judgment and Justice from henceforth even for ever having all power given unto him in Heaven and 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 thing 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 Mat. 28. 18 19 20. v. 18. And Jesus came and spake unto them saying All power is given unto me in Heaven and in Earth v. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost v. 20. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you and lo I am with you alway even unto the end of the world Amen Eph. 1. 20 21 22 23. v. 20. Which he wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places v. 21. Far above all Principality 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 v. 22. And hath put all things under his feet and gave him to be the head over all things to the Church v. 23. Which is his body the fulness of him that filleth all in all compared with Eph. 4. 8 11. v. 8. Wherefore he saith when he ascended up on high he led captivity captive and gave gifts unto men v. 11. And he gave some Apostles and some Prophets and some Evangelists and some pastors and teachers And with Psal 68. 18. Thou hast ascended on high thou hast led captivity captive thou hast received gifts for men yea for the rebellious also that the Lord God might dwell among them Of the Church THere is one General Church visible held forth in the New Testament 1 Cor. 12. 12 13 28. For as the body is one and hath many members and all the members of that one body being many are one body so also is Christ v. 13. For by one spirit are we all baptized into one body whether we be Jews or Gentiles whether we be bond or free and have been all made to drink into one Spirit v. 28. And God hath set some in the Church First Apostles Secondarily Prophets Thirdly Teachers after that miracles then gifts of healings helps governments diversities of tongues Together with the rest of the Chapter The Ministry Oâ—acles 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. See before Eph. 4. 4 5. v. 4. There is one body and one spirit even as ye are called in one hope of your calling v. 5. One Lord one Faith one Baptism Compared with ver 10. 11 12 13 15 16. v. 10. He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens that he might fill all things v. 11. And he gave some Apostles and some Prophets and some Evangelists and some pastors and teachers v. 12. For the perfecting of the saints for the work of the ministry for the edifying of the body of Christ v. 13. Till we all come in the unity of the faith and of the knowledg of the Son of God unto a perfect man unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ v. 15. But speaking the truth in love may grow up into him in all things which is the head even Christ v. 16. From whom the whole body fitly joyned together and compacted by that which every joynt supplieth according to the effectual working in the measure of every part maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of it self in love Particular visible Churches Members of the General Church are also held forth in the New Testament Gal 1. 21 12. v. 21. Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia v. 22. And was unknown by face unto the Churches of Judea which were in
to the ministery of the Word 2 Cor. 16. 1 2 3 4. v. 1. New concerning the collection for the Saints as I have given order to the Churches of Galatia even so do ye v. 2. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in stâ—re as God hath prospered him that there be no gatherings when I come v. 3. And when I come whomsoever you shall approve by your letters them will I send to bring your liberality to Jerusalem v. 4. And if it be meet that I go also they shall go with me Gal. 2. 9 10. v. 9. And when James Cepl as and John who seemed to be pillars perceived the grace that was given unto me they gave to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship that we should go unto the heathen and they unto the circumcision v. 10. Only they would that we should remember the poor the same which I also was forward to do And he hath also a ruling power over the Flock as a Pastor 1 Tim. 5. 17. Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour especially they who labour in the word and doctrine Act. 20. 17. And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called the elders of the Church v. 28. Take heed therefore unto your selves and to all the flock over thee which the Holy Ghost hath made you over-â—eers to feed the Church of God which he hath purchased with his own blood 1 Thes 5. 12. And we beseech you brethren to know them which labour among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you Heb. 13. 7 17. v. 7. Remember them which have the rule over you who have spoken unto you the word of God whose faithf follow considering the end of their conversation v. 17. Obey them that have the rule over you and submit your selves for they watch for your souls as they that must give account that they may do it with joy and not with grief for that is unprofitable for you Teacher or Doctor THe Scripture doth hold out the name and Title of a Teacher as well as of the Pastor 1 Cor. 12. 28. And God hath set some in the Church First Apostles Secondarily Prophets Thirdly Teachers after that miracles then gifts of healing helps governments diversities of tongues Eph. 4. 11. And he gave some Apostles and some Prophets and some Evangelists and some pastors and teachers 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 exercises according to these gifts in the ministry of the word Rom. 12. 6 7 8. v. 6. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us whether prophesie let us prophesie according to the proportion of faith v. 7. Or ministry let us wait on our ministring or be that teacheth on teaching v. 8. He that exhorteth on exhortation he that giveth let him do it with simplicity he that ruleth with diligence he that sheweth mercy with cheerfulness 1 Cor. 11. 1 4 5. v. 1. Now concerning spiritual gifts brethren I would not have you ignorant v. 4. Now there are diversities of gifts but the same spirit and there are diversities of operations but it is the same God which worketh all in all v. 5. And there are differences of administrations but the same Lord. v. 7. But the manifestation of the spirit is given to every man to profit with all Though these different gifts may meet in and accordingly be exercised by one and the same minister 1 Cor. 14. 3. But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification and exhortation and comfort 2 Tim. 4. 2. Preach the Word be instant in season out of season reprove rebuke exhort with all long-suffering and Doctrine Tit. 1. 9. Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught that he may be able by sound Doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers Yet where be several Ministers in the same Congregation they may be designed to several imployment according to the different gifts in which each of them do most excel Rom. 12. 6 7. 8. v. 6. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us whether prophefie let us prophesie according to the proportion of faith v. 7. Or ministry let us wait on our ministring or be that teacheth on teaching v. 8. Or he that exhorteth on exhortation he that giveth let him do it with simplicity he that ruleth with diligence he that sheweth mercy with cheerfulness 1 Pet. 4. 10 11. v. 10. As every man hath received the gift even so minister the same one to another as good stewards of the manifold grace of God v. 11. If any man speak let him speak as the Oracles of God if any man minister let him do it as of the ability which God giveth that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever Amen And he that doth more excel in exposition of Scripture in teaching sound Dâ—ctrine 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 patticular Congregation he is to perform so far as he is able the whole work of the Ministry as appeareth in 2 Tim. 4. 2. Preach the word be instant in season out of season reprove rebuke exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine Tit. 1. 9. Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught that he may be able by sound Doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gain-sayers 1 Tim 6. 2. And they that have believing masters let them not dispise them because they are brethren but rather do them service because they are faithful and beloved partakers of the benefit these things teach and exhort A Teacher or Doctor is of most excellent use in Schools and Universities as of old in the Shools of the Prophets and at Ierusalem where Gamaliel and others taught as Doctors Other Church-governours 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 2 Chron. 19. 8 9 10. v. 8. Moreover in Jerusalem did Jehoshaphat set of the Levites and of the Priests and of the chief of the fathers of Israel for the judgment of the Lord and for controversies when they returned to Jerusalem v. 9. And he charged them saying Thus shall ye do in the fear of the Lord faithfully and with a perfect heart v. 10. And what cause soever shall come to you of your brethren that dwell in their Cities between blood and blood between law and commandment and statutes and judgments ye shall even warn them that they trespass not against the Lord and so wrath come upon
you and upon your brethren this do and ye shall not trespass So Christ who hath instituted a Government and Governours Ecclesiastical in the Church hath furnished some in his Church beside the Ministers of the Word with gifts for governments and with commission to execute the same when called there unto who are to joyn with the Minister in the government of the Church Rom. 12. 7 8. v. 7. Or Ministry let us wait on our ministring or he that teacheth on teaching v. 8. Or he that exhorteth on exhortation he that giveth let him do it with simplicity he that ruleth with diligence he that sheweth mercy with cheerfulness 1 Cor. 12. 28. And God hath set some in the Church first Apostles secondarily Prophets thirdly Teachers after that miracles then gifts of healings helps governments diversities of tongues Which Officers reformed churches commonly call Elders Deacons THe Scripture doth hold out Deacons as distinct officers in the church Phil. i. â— Paul and Timotheus the servant of Jesus Christ to all saints in Christ Jesus whith are at Philippi with the Bishops and Deacons 1 Tim. 3. 8. Likewise must the Deacons be grave not double-tongued not given to much wine not greedy of filthy lucre Whose Office is perpetual 1 Tim. 3. 8. Likewise must the Deacons be grave not double-tongued not given to much wine not greedy of filthy lucre to ver 15. see in the Bible Act. 6. 1 2 3 4. v. 1. And in those dayes when the number of the Disciples was multiplyed there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews because their widows were neglected in the daily manistration v. 2. Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them and said It is not reason that we should leave the word of God and serve tables v. 3. Wherefore brethren look ye out among you seven men of honest report full of the holy Ghost and wisdom whom we may appoint over this business v. 4. But we will give our selves continually to prayer and to the Ministry of the word 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 Act. 6. 1 2 3 4. see before 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 publick Worship When believers 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 beter administration of such ordinances as belong unto them and the discharge of mutual duties 1 Cor. 14. 26 33 40. v. 26. Let all things be done unto edifying v. 33. For God is not the author of confusion but of peace as in all Churches of the Saints v. 40. Let all things be done decently and in order 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 one to another have the better opportunity thereby to discharge them which moral tye is perpetual for Christ came not to destroy the Law but to fulfil it Deut. 15. 7 11. If there be among you a poor man of one of thy brethren within any of thy gates in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee thou shalt not harden thy heart nor shut thy hand from thy poor brother v. 11. For the poor shall never cease out of the land therefore I command thee saying Thou shalt open thy hand wide unto thy brother to the poor and to the needy in the land Mat. 22. 39. And the second is like unto it Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thy self Mat. 5. 17. Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets I am not come to destroy but to fulfil 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. v. 24. And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works v. 25. Not forsaking the Assembling of our selves together as the manner of some is but exhorting one another and so much the more as ye see the day approaching Jam. 2. 1 2. v. 1. My brethren have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ the Lord of glory with respect of persons v. 2. For if there come into your assembly a man with a gold ring in goodly apparel and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment Thirdly The pastor and people must so nearly cohabite 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. Where there is no vision the people perish but he that keepeth the law happy is he 1 Tim. 5. 17. Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour especially they who labour in the Word and Doctrine Heb. 13. 7. Remember them which have the rule over you who have spoken unto you the word of God whose faith follow considering the end of their conversation It is also requisite that there should be others to joyn in Government 1 Cor. 12. 28. And God hath set some in the Church First Apostles Secondarily Prophets Thirdly Teachers after that Miracles then gifts of healings helps governments diversities of tongues And likewise it is requisite that there be others to take special care for the reliefe of the poor Acte 6. 2 3. v. 2. Then the twelve called the multitude of the Disciples unto them and said It is not reason that we should leave the Word of God and serve tables v. 3. Wherefore brethren look ye out among you seven men of honest report full of the holy Ghost and wisdome whom ye may appoint over this business 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. Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour especially they who labour in the Word and Doctrine Of the Ordinances in a particular Congregation THe Ordinances in a single Congregation are Prayer Thanksgiving and singing of Psalms 1 Tim. 2. 1. I
Of Classical Assemblies THe Scripture doth hold out a Presbytery in a Church both in 1 Tim. 4. 14. Neglect not the gift that is in thee which was given thee by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the Presbytery And in Acts 15. 2 4 6. v. 2. When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissention and disputation with them they determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain other of them should go up to Jerusalem unto the Apostles and Elders about this question v. 4. And when they were come to Jerusalem they were received of the Church and of the Apostles and Elders and they declared all things that God had done with them v. 6. And the Apostles and Elders came together for to consider of this matter A Presbytery consisteth of Ministers of the Word and such other publick Officers as are agreeable to and warranted by the Word of God to be Church-governours to joyn with the Ministers in the Government of the Church as appeareth Rom. 12. 7 8. v. 7. Or Ministry let us wait on our Ministring or he that teacheth on reaching v. 8. Or he that exhorteth on exhortation he that giveth let him do it with simplicity he that ruleth with diligence he that sheweth mercy with cheerfulness 1 Cor. 12. 28. And God hath set some in the Church first Apostles secondarily Prophets thirdly teachers after that miracles then gifts of healings helps governments diversities of tongues The Scripture doth hold forth that many particular Congregations may be under one Presbyterial Go ernment This proposition is proved by instances 1. First Of the Church of Jerusalem which consisteth of more Congregations then one and all these Congregations were under one Presbyterial Goverment This appeareth tâ—us â— First The Church of Jerusalem consisteth of more Congregations then one as is manifest 1. By the multitude of believers mentioned in divers Both before the dispersion of the believers there by means of the persecutions mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles chap. 8. in the beginning thereof witness Acts 1. 15. And in those dayes Peter stood up in the midst of the Disciples and said The number of the names together were about an hundred and twenty Acts 2. 41 46. 47. v. 41. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls v. 46. And they continuing daily with one accord in the temple and breaking bread from house to house did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart v. 47. Praising God and having favour with all the people And the Lord added to the Church daily such as should be saved Acts 5. 14. And believers were the more added unto the Lord multitudes both of men and women Acts 6. 1. 7. v. 1. And in those dayes when the number of the Disciples was multiplied there a rose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration v. 7. And the Word of God increased and the number of the Disciples multiplyed in Jerusalem greatly and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith And also after the dispersion Acts 9. 31. Then had the Churches rest throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria and were edified and walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the holy Ghost were multiplied Acts 12. 24. But the Word of God grew and multiplied Acts. 21. 20. And when they heard it they glorified the Lord and said unto him Thou seest brother how many thousand of Jews there are which believe and they are all zealous of the law 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 seldome which will not consist with Acts 6. 2. Then the twelve called the multitude of the Discipleâ— unto them and said It is not reason that we should leave the Word of God and serve tables Thirdly The diversity of Languages amongst the Believers mentioned both in the second and sixth chapters of the Acts doth argue more Congregations then one in that Church 2. Secondly All those congregations were under one Presbyterial government because First They were one Church Acts 8. 1. And Saul was consenting unto his death And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria except the Apostles Acts 2. 47. Praising God and having favour with all the people And the Lord added unto the church daily such as should be saved Compared with chap. 5. 11. And great fear came upon all the church and upon as many as heard these things chap. 12 5. Peter therefore was kept in prison hut prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him chap. 15. 2. When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them they determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain other of them should go up to Jerusalem unto the Apostles and Elders about this question Secondly The Elders of the Church are mentioned Act. 11. 30. Which also they did and sent it to the Elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul Acts 15. 4 6 22. v. 4. And when they were come to Jerusalem they mere received of the Church and of the Apostles and Elders and they declared all things that God had done with them v. 6. And the Apostles and Elders came together to consider of this matter v. 22. Then it pleased the Apostles and Elders with the whole Church to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Bâ—rnabas namely Judas sirnamed Barsabas and Silus chief men among the brethren And ch 21. 17 18. v. 17. And when we were come to Jerusalem the brethren received us gladly v. 18. And the day following Paul went in with us unto James and all the Elders were present Thirdly The Apostles did the ordinary Acts of Presbyters as Presbyters in that Church which proveth a Presbyterial Church before the dispersion Act. 6 Fourthly The several Congregations in Jerusalem being one Church the Elders of that Church are mentioned as meeting together for acts of Government Act. 11. 30. Which also they did and sent it to the Elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul Acts 15. 4 6 22. v. 4. And when they were come to Jerusalem they were received of the Church and of the Apostles and Ellers and they declared all things that God had done with them v. 6. And the Apostles and Elders came together for to consider of this matter v. 22. Then it pleased the Apostles and Elders with the whole Church to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas namely Judas sirnamed Barsabas and Silas chief men among the brethren Acts 21. 17 18. v. 17. And when they were come to Jerusalem the brethren
14. That thou keep this Commandment without spot unrebukeable untill the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ particularly Prayer and Thanksgiving in the name of Christ p Phil. 4. 6. Be careful for nothing but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests he made known to God Eph. 5. 20. Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ the reading preaching and hearing of the word q Deut. 17. 18 19. And it shall be when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book out of that which is before the Priests and Levites V. 19. And it shall be with him and he shall read therein all the dayes of his life that he may learn to fear the Lord his God to keep all the words of this law and these statutes to do them Act. 15. 21. For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him being read in the Synagogues every Sabbath day 2 Tim. 4. 2. Preach the word be instant in season out of season reprove rebuke exhort with all long-suffering and Doctrine Jam. 1. 21 22. Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness and receive with meekness the â—â—graffed word which is able to save your souls V. 22. But be ye doers of the word and not hearers only deceiving your own selves Act. 10. 33 Immediately therefore I sent unto thee and thou hast well done that thou art come Now therefore are we all here present before God to hear all things that are commanded thee of God the administration and receiving of the Sacraments r Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost 1 Cor. 11. 23. to the 30. verse For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you that the Lord Jesus the same might wherein he was betrayed took bread And so on Church-government and Discipline Å¿ Mat. 18. 15 16 17. Moreover if thy brother trespass against thee go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone if he shall hear thee thou hast gained thy brother V. 16. But if he will not hear then take with thee one or two more that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established V. 17. And if he shall neglect to hear them tell it to the Church but if he will not hear the Church let him be c. Mat. 16. 19. And I will give unto thee the keyes of the kingdom of heaven and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven 1 Cor. 5. the whole chapter 1 Cor. 12. 28. And God hath set some in the Church first Apostles secondarily Prophets thirdly Teachers after that Miracles then Gifts of healings Helps Governments diversities of tongues the Ministery and maintenance thereof t Eph. 4. 11 12. And he gave some Apostles and some Prophets and some Evangelists and some Pastors and Teachers V. 12. For the perfecting of the Saints for the work of the Ministery for the edifying of the body of Christ 1 Tim. 5. 17 18. Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour especially they who labour in the word and doctrine V. 18. For the Scripture saith thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn and the labourer is worthy of his reward 1 Cor. 9. 7. to v. 15. Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charge who planteth a vineyatd and eateth not of the fruit thereof or who feedeth a flock and eateth not of the milk of the flock And so on to v. 15. religious fasting u Joel 2. 12 13. Therefore also now saith the Lord Turn ye even to me with all your heart and with fasting and weeping and mourning V. 13. And rend your hearts and not your garments and turn unto the Lord your God for he is gracious and merciful c. 1 Cor. 7. 5. Defraud ye not one the other except it be with consent for a time that ye may give your selves to fasting and prayer and come together again that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency swearing by the name of God * Deut. 6. 13. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God and serve him and shalt swear by his Name and vowing unto him x Isai 19. 21. And the Lord shall be known to Egypt and the Egyptians shall know the Lord in that day and shall do sacrifice and oblation yea they shall vow a vow unto the Lord and perform it Psal 76. 11. Vow and pay unto the Lord your God let all that are round about him bring presents unto him that ought to be feated As also the disapproving detesting opposing all false worship y Act. 17. 16 17. Now while Paul waited for them at Athens his spirit was stirred in him when he saw all the city given to idolatry V. 17. Therefore disputed he in the Synagogue with the Jewes and with the devour persons and in the market daily with them that met with him Psal 16. 4. Their sorrowes shall be multiplied that hasten after another God their drink-offerings of blood will not I offer nor take up their names into my lips and according to each ones place and calling removing it and all monuments of Idolatry z Deut. 7. 5. But thus â—hall ye deal with them ye shall destroy their Altars and break down their images and cut down their groves and burn their graven images with fire Isai 30. 22. Ye shall defile also the covering of thy graven images of silver and the ornament of thy molten images of gold thou shalt cast them away as a menstruous cloth thou shalt say unto it Get thee hence Q. What are the sins forbidden in the second Commandment A. The sins forbidden in the second Commandment are all devising a Num. 15. 39. And it shall be unto you for a fringe that ye may look upon it and remember all the Commandments of the Lord do them and that ye seek not after your own heart and your own eyes after which ye use to go a whoring counselling b Deut. 13. 6 7 8. If thy brother the son of thy mother or thy son or thy daughter or the wife of thy bosome or thy friend which is as thine own soul entice thee secretly saying Let us go and serve other gods which thou hast not known thou nor thy fathers V. 7. Namely of the gods of the people which are round about thee or far off from thee from the one end of the earth to the other V. 8. Thou shalt not consent unto him nor hearken unto him nor shall thine eye pity him nor shalt thou spare nor shalt thou conceal him commanding