the body of Christ. Q. 2. Cannot false or seeming Grace grow A. It may spring up and seem to flourish for a time but comes not to perfection Luke 8.14 And that which fell among thorns are they which when they have heard go forth and are choaked with cares and riches and pleasures of this tife and bring no fruit to perfection Q. 3. What is the first respect in which Grace grows A. It grows by deeper rooting it self in the Soul Eph. 3.17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith that ye being rooted and grounded in love may be able c. Q. 4. What is the manner of its growth A. It grows in respect of its greater fitness and readiness for acts of Obedience Col. 1.11 Strengthened with all might according to his glorious power unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness Q. 5. What is the third respect or manner of its growth A. It grows in respect of its abilities to fix the mind more steadily on spiritual things Hence grown Christians are called spiritual men Gal. 6.1 Ye which are spiritual restore such an one in the spirit of meekness Q. 6. Why must all true Grace grow A. Because there is a Stature to which Christians are appointed Eph. 4.12 13. Till we all come in the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God unto a perfect man unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ. Q. 7. What are the causes of a Christians growth A. Union with Christ. Iohn 15.4 As the branch cannot bear fruit of it self except it abide in the vine no more can ye except ye abide in me And his Blessings on the Ordinances Isa. 55.10 11. For as the rain cometh down and the snow from heaven and returneth not thither but watereth the earth and maketh it bring forth and bud that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater So shall my word be that goeth out of my mouth it shall not return unto me void but it shall accomplish that which I please and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it And Providences Phil. 1 19. For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayers and the supply of the spirit of Iesus Christ. Q 8. May not true Grace sometimes decay A. Yes it may Rev. 2.4 Neversheless I have somewhat against thee Because thou hast left thy first love But not utterly 1 Iohn 3.9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin for his seed remaineth in him Q. 9. What is the first Inâ—erence from hence A. To bless God for Gospel Ordinances Psal. 92.13 14. Those that be planted in the House of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God they shall still bring forth fruit in old age they shall be fat and flourishing Q. 10. What is the second Inference A. Hence we see the miserable state of them that grow worse and worse Iude Verse 12 These are spots in your feasts of charity when they feasâ— with you feeding themselves without fear Clouds they are without water carried about of winds Trees whose fruit withereth without fruit twice dead pluckt up by the root Q. 11. What is the third Inference A. Christians should not be discouraged at their weakness in Grace for they have a merciful Christ. Isa. 42.3 A bruised reed shall he not break and the smoaking flax shall he not quench he shall bring forth judgment unto truth And a sure Promise Iob 17.9 The righteous also shall hold on his way and he that hath clean hands shall be stronger and stronger Q. 12. What is the last Inference A. That all true Christians draw daily nearer and nearer to the heavenly and perfect State 2 Cor. 4.16 For which cause we faint not but though our outward man perish yet the inward man is renewed day by day Rom. 13.11 Now is our salvation nearer than when we believed Of Perseverance Quest. 1. WHAT is Perseverance to the End A. It is the steady and constant continuance of Christians in the ways of Duty and Obedience amidst all Temptations and Discouragements to the contrary Col. 1.23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and setled and be not moved away from the hope of the Gospel which ye have heard and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven whereof I Paul am made a minister Q. 2. Do all that profess Christ continue in him A. No many that at first zealously profess him afterwards fall away Iohn 6.66 From that time many of his Disciples went back and walked no more with him Q. 3. Why do not all Persevere A. Because all Professors have not a good root and foundation Matt. 13.20 21. But he that received the seed in stony places the same is he that heareth the word and anon with joy receiveth it yet hath he not root in himself but endureth for a while for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word by and by he is offended Q. 4. What is the First ground of the Saints Perseverance A. God's electing love in which they are given to Christ. Iohn 10.29 My father which gave them me is greater than all and no man is able to pluck them out of my father's hand Q 5. What is the second ground of Perseverance A. The immortal nature of Sanctifying grace Iohn 4.14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life 1 John 3.9 For is seed remaineth in him Q. 6. What is the third ground of it A. The Covenant of Grace Ier. 32.40 I will make an everlasting covenant with them That I will not turn away from them to do them good but I will put my fear in their hearts that they shall not deparâ— from me Q. 7. What is the fourth ground of it A. Christ's effectual Intercession Luke 22.32 But I have prayed for thee that thy faith may fail not Q. 8. Are there no declinings of grace in the saints A. Yes there are Rev. 2.4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee because thou hast left thy first love Yet Grace cannot be totally or finally lost For the seed of God remaineth in the sanctified 1 Iohn 3.9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin for his seed remaineth in him and he cannot sin because he is born of God Q 9. Is there no hope of Salvation for final Apâ—states A No the Gospel gives none Heb. 10.38 But if any man draw back my soul shall have no pleasure in him Q. 10. What is the first Instruction hence A. It warns all men to lay a good foundation lest the buildings of hope be overturned when the storm comes Mat. 7.24 25. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine and doeth them I will liken him to a wise man which built his house upon a rock and the rain
Author of Sanctification A. God only Iude ver 1. To them that are sanctified by God the Father Q. 3. What is the instrument of it A. The Word of God Iohn 17.17 Sanctify them througâ— thy truth thy word is truth Q. 4 What part of man is sanctified A. Every part both of the Soul and Body 1 Thes. 5.23 And the very God of peace sanctâ—â—y you wâ—olly and I pray God your whole spirit soul and body be prâ—served blameless unto the coming of our Lord Iesus Christ Q. 5. Is Sanctification perfected at once A. No but by degrees 2 Pet. 3.18 But grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Iesus Christ. Q. 6. VVhen will it be made perfect A. When we come to Heaven and not before 1 Cor. 13.10 11. But when that which is perfect is come then that which is in part shall be done away Q. 7. What are the signs of true Sanctification A. When it runs into all parts of our Conversation 1 Pet. 1.15 But as he which hath called you is holy so be ye holy in all manner of conversation Secondly And continues to the end Rev. 22.11 Let him that is holy be holy still Q. 8. What is the inseparable companion of Sanctification A. Righteousness towards men Luke 1.74 75. That he would grant unto us that we being delivered out of the hands of our enemies might serve him without fear in holiness and righteousness before him all the days of our life Q. 9. What is opposite to Sanctification A. All filthiness of Flesh and Spirit 2 Cor. 7.1 Having therefore these promises dearly beloved let us cleanse our selves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit Q. 10. What is the priviledge of the sanctified A. They are all elected and shall be glorified 1 Pet. 1. 2 4 Elect according to the fore-knowledge of God the father through sanctification of the spirit to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that fadeth not away reserved in heaven for you Q. 11. What is the case of them who live and die unsanctified A. They shall never see God Heb. 12.14 Follow peace with all men and boliness without which no man shall see the Lord. Q. 12. What differenceth true from pretended Sanctification A. True Sanctification purgeth the heart from the love of sin Rom. 7.15 For that which I do I allow not And the life from the dominion of sin â—om â—â— 19. As ye have yielded your members servants to 〈◊〉 and to iniquity unto iniquity even so now yield youâ— members servants to righteousness unto holiness Q. 13. May great sinners be sanctâ—fied A. Yes the Spirit of God can sanctify the vilest heart 1 Cor. 6.11 And such were some of you but ye are washed but ye are sanctified Of Assurance the fruit of Iustification Quest. 36. WHAT are the benefits which in this life do either accompany or â—low from Iustification Adoption and Sanctification A. The benefits which in this life do either accompany or flow from Iustification Adoption and Sanctification are assurance of God's love peace of Conscience joy in the Holy Ghost increase of Grace and perseverance therein to the end Q. 1. Is Assurance possible to be attained in this Life A. Yes for fome have had it Cant. 6.3 I am my beloveds and my beloved is mine And all Christians are commanded to strive for it 2 Pet. 1.10 Wherefore the rather â—rethren give diligence to make your calling and election sure Q. 2. How many sorts of assurance are there A. There is an objective Assurance 2 Tim. 2.19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure having this seal The Lord knoweth them that are his And a subjective or personal Assurance Gal. 2.20 Who loved me and gave himself for me Q. 3. Is personal Assurance perfect in this Life A. No it admits of doubts and fears which interrupts it and it is not always at one height 1 Cor. 13.10 When that which is psrfect is come then that which is in part shall be done away Q. 4. On what Testimony is personal Assurance built A. Upon the Testimony of God's Spirit witnessing with ours Rom. â— 16 The spirit it self beareth witness with our spirit that we are the children of God Q. 5. Doth the Spirit make use of signs in us to 〈◊〉 us A. Yes Ordinarily he doth 1 Iohn 3.14 We know thâ—â— we are passed from death to life because we love the brethren Aâ— ver 24. Hereby we know that he abideth in us by the spirit whicâ— he hath given us Q. 6. How is true assurance discerned from presumption A. True assurance humbles the Soul Gal. 2.20 I 〈◊〉 crucified with Christ nevertheless I live yet not I but Chriâ—â— liveth in me And makes the Soul afraid of Sin 2 Cor. 7.1 Having therefore these promises dearly beloved let us cleanse 〈◊〉 selves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit perfecting holiness iâ— the fear of God Q. 7. What is the usual season of Assurance A. The time of greatest sufferings for Christ. 1 Pet. 4.14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ happy 〈◊〉 ye for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you Q. 8. Is personal Assurance absolutely necessary to Salvation A. No a man may be saved and in Christ without it Isa. 50.10 Who is among you that feareth the Lord that obeyeth the voice of his servant that walketh in darkness and hath no light Let him trust in the name of the Lord and stay upâ—â— his God Q. 9. What is the fruit of Assurance A. Joy unspeakable amidst outward Troubles Rom. 5.11 And not only so but we also joy in God through our Lord Iesus Christ by whom we have now received the atonement Q. 10. What sins usually eclipse our Assurance A. Negligence in duty starves it 2 Pet. 1.10 Give diligence to make your calling and election sure For if ye do these things ye shall never fall And sinning against light stabs it Psal. 51.8 Make me to hear joy and gladness that the bonâ— which thou hast broken may rejoyce Q. 11. What is the first Inference from this Doctrine A. That no unregenerate Person can have any Assurance for it is the fruit of Justification Adoption and Sanctification Q. 12. What is the second inference A. That all the Joys of Heaven are not to come buâ— â—ome communicated in this life 1 Pet. 1.8 Whom having not seen ye love in whom though now ye see him not yet believing ye rejoyce with joy unspeakable and full of glory Q. 13. What is the third inference A. That assured Believers need to be circumspect persons that they grieve not the Spirit Eph. 4.30 And grieve not the holy spirit of God whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption Of Peace of Conscience Quest. 1. WHat doth the word Peace signify in Scripture A. In the Language of the Old Testament it signifies all temporal good 1 Sam. 25.6 Peace be both to thee and peace be to thine house and peace be unto
And David said to Abishai and to all his servants Behold my son which came forth of my bowels seeketh my life how much more now may this Benjamite do it let him alone and let him curse for the Lord hath bidden him Q. 12. VVhat is the last Instruction from God's Decrees A. That we ought to be thankful to God for all the good and patient under all the evils that befall us Iob 2.10 Shall we receive good at the hand of God and shall we not receive evil Of the Creation Quest. 9. WHAT are the Works of Creation A. The Work of Creation is God's making all things of nothing by the Word of his Power in the space of Six Days and all very good Q 1. VVhat is it to create A. To create is to give a Being to that which had no Being or to bring something out of nothing Heb. 11.3 Through Faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God so that things which are seen were not made of things that do appear Q. 2. How did God create the world A. By his infinite Power executed in his Word of Command Psalm 33.6.9 By the word of the Lord were the heavens made and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth for he spake and it was done he commanded and it stood fast Q. 3. What Attributes of God shine forth in the Creation A. The Wisdom of God shines forth gloriously not only in their formation but dependance one upon another Psalm 104.24 O Lord how manifold are thy works in wisdom hast thou made them all the earth is full of thy riches Q. 4. What may we learn from the Creation A. That God perfectly knows all that is in the Creature be it never so secret Psalm 94.8 9. Understand O ye brutish among the people and ye fools when will ye be wise He that planted the ear shall he not hear he that formed the eye shall he not see Q. 2. What 's the Second Instruction from the Creation A. That God is the rightful owner of us all and may do what he will with us Rom. 9.20 Nay but O man who art thou that repliest against God! Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it why hast thou made me thus Hath not the porter power over the clay of the same lump to make one vessel to honour and another to dishonour Q. 6. What is the Third Instruction from the Creation A. That God only is the proper Object of Worship Ier. 10. 11. Thus shall he say unto them The Gods that have not made the heavens and the earth even they shall perish from the earth and from under these heavens Q. 7. What is the Fourth Instruction from hence A. That Christians should not fear the power of Creatures since they derive their Being and Power from God Isa. 54.16 17. Behold I have created the Smith that bloweth the coals in the fire that bringeth forth an instrument for his work and I have created the waster to destroy no weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper Q. 8. What is the Fifth Instruction hence A. That Atheism is a sin against Natural Light and Reason Rom. 1.20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen being understood by the things that are made even his eternal power and godhead so that they are without excuse Q 9. What is the Sixth Instruction hence A. That God's Glory is the end of all Being Col. 1.16 For by him were all things created that are in heaven and that are in earth visible and invisible whether they be thrones or dominions or principalities or powers all things were created by him and for him Q. 10. What is the Seventh Instruction hence A. That there is an unnatural rebellion in sin smiting at him that made and preserves our Being Isa. 1.2 I have nourished and brought up children and they have rebelled against me Q. 11. What is the Eighth Instruction from hence A. That God can in a moment revive and save the Church when at the lowest ebb Isa. 65.18 Behold I create Ierusalem a rejoycing and her people a joy Q 12 What is the last Instruction from hence A. That it is easy with God to revive a dejected Soul Isa. 57.19 I create the fruit of the lips Peace peace to him that is far off and tâ— him that is near saith the Lord and I will heal him Of Man's Creation Quest. 10. HOW did God create Man A. God created Man Male and Female after his own Image in Knowledge Righteousness and Holiness wiâ—h dominion over the Creatures Q. 1. How did God create Man A. God created man in his own Image Gen. 1.27 So God created man in his own image in the image of God created he him male and female created he them Q. 2. What is meant by the Image of God A. Not a resemblance of God in any bodily Shape or Figure but in holiness Eph. 4.24 And that ye put on that new man which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness Q. 3. In what Graces did Man resemble God A. In such a knowledge of God himself and the Creatures which made him happy Col. 3.10 And have put on the new man which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him Q. 4. In what other Graces did this Image consist A. In Righteousness as well as Holiness Eph. 4.24 And that ye put on that new man which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness Q. 5. What is the First Inference from hence A. The deplorable misery of the Fall Rom. 5.12 Wherefore as by one man sin entred into the world and death by sin and so death passed upon all men for that all have sinned Q 6. VVhat is the Second Instruction hence A. The beauty of Holiness which is the Image of God and the Excellency of Man Psalm 16.3 But to the saints that are in the earth and to the excellent in whom is all my delight Q 7. VVhat is the Third Instruction from hence A. We have infinite cause to bless God for Christ who repairs this lost Image in his people Eph. 4.23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind Q 8. VVhat is the Fourth Instruction from hence A. That the despisers of Holiness are the despisers of God for Holiness is God's Image Q 9 VVhat 's the Fifth Instruction from hence A The excellency of Sanctification which defaces the Image of Satan and draws the Image of God upon the Soul of maâ— Of Divine Providence Qest. 1 WHAT are God's Works of Providence A. God's Works of Providence are his just holy wise and powerful preserving and governing all his Creatures and all their Actions Q 1 How doth it appear there is a Divine Providence A. It appears by plain Scripture Testimonies Heb. 1.3 Upholding all things by the word of his power Col. 1.17 By him all things consist Luke 12.6 7.
it new with you in my Fathers kingdom Q. 3. What is the first argument by which Protestants confute the Popish Doctrine of Transubstantiation A. The first Argument against it is taken from the end of the Sacrament which is to bring Christs Body and Blood to our remembrance 1 Cor. 11.24 25. This do in remembrance of me Now signs for remembrance are of things absent not present Q. 4. What 's the second Argument A. Because the language in which our Saviour spake had no other property of expression there being no other word for signifie but is in stead thereof as is manifest in both Testaments Gen. 41.27 And the seven ill-favoured kine that came up after them are seven years of famine Rev. 1.20 The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches Q. 5. What 's the third Argument against Transubstantiation A. The manifold gross absurdities that naturally and necessarily follow on this Doctrine shew the falseness of it and that it is justly rejected and abhorred by all sound Christians Q. 6. What 's the first absurdity that follows it A. This Doctrine allows that to a silly Priest which is not to be allowed to all the Angels in Heaven It allows him power to make his Maker and eat his God And in justifying this by the Omnipotency of God they say no more than what a Turk may say to justifie the most ridiculous fooleries of the Alcoran Q. 7. What 's the second absurdity of Transubstantiation A. The second absurdity is this that it denies the truth of the testimony given by the senses of all men that it is real Bread and real Wine after Consecration and not Flesh and Blood And if the testimony of sense be not certain then the being of God cannot be proved by the things that are made contrary to Rom. 1.20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen being understood by the things that are made even his eternal power and godhead c. Nor the truth of Christs Resurrection by seeing and feeling contrary to Luke 24.39 Behold my hands and my feet that it is I my self handle me and see c. Q. 8. What 's the third absurdity of Transubstantiation A. The third absurdity is this that in affirming the accidents of Bread and Wine to remain and their substance to vanish they affirm that there is length breadth thickness moisture and sweetness and yet nothing long broad thick moist or sweet which is a perfect contradiction Q. 9. What 's the fourth absurdity of Transubstantiation A. It implies that the entire living body of Christ sate at the Table and at the same time was dead and in the Disciples mouths and stomachs in the first Sacrament and that in all after Sacraments it is wholly in Heaven and wholly in as many thousand places in the World as there are Sacraments administred Q. 10. What doth the breaking of this bread and pouring out of wine in the Sacrament signifie A. It signifies the violent painful death and bitter sufferings of Christ for us 1 Cor. 11.26 For as often as ye eat this bread and drink this cup ye do shew the Lords death till he come Q. 11. What doth the giving and taking of the Sacramental bread and wine signifie A. These actions signifie Gods exhibiting and the Believers applying of Christ and all his benefits to their Souls Q. 12. Who are fit subjects to receive the Lords Supper A. None that are grosly ignorant scandalous or unbelievers in their Natural state for such cannot examine themselves as the Word requires 1 Cor. 11.28 But let a man examine himself and so let him eat of that bread and drink of that cup. But do eat and drink Judgment to themselves 1 Cor. 11.29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily eateth and drinketh damnation to himself not discerning the Lords body Q. 13. Are morally honest and sober persons qualified for this Sacrament A. No Civility and Morality do not qualifie persons they are not the Wedding-garment but regenerating Grace and Faith doth in the smallest measure Matth. 22.12 And he saith unto him friend how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment c. 1 Cor. 10.16 17. The cup of blessing which we bless is it not the communion of the blood Christ the bread which we break is it not the communion of the body of Christ For we being many are one bread and one body for we are all partakers of that one bread Of the Duties of Communicants Quest. 97. 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 knowledge to discern the Lords Body of their Faith to feed upon him of their Repentance Love and new Obedience lest coming unworthily they eat and drink judgment to themselves Q. 1. What are the Duties of worthy receivers A. There are three sorts of Duties incumbent on them some antecedent to it some concomitants of it and some subsequent to it Q. 2. What are the antecedent Duties to it A. They are two 1. Examination of their Graces 2. Preparation of their Souls Examination of their Graces 1 Cor. 11.28 29. But let a man examine himself and so let him eat of that bread and drink of that cup. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily eateth and drinketh damnation to himself not discerning the Lords body And preparation of their Souls 1 Cor. 5.8 Therefore let us keep the feast not with old leaven neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth Q. 3. What 's the first Grace to be tryed A. Our saving knowledge of God in Christ without which we cannot discern the Lords Body 1 Cor. 11.29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily eateth and drinketh damnation to himself not discerning the Lords body Q. 4. What are we to enquire of touching our knowledge of God in Christ A. We are to examine whether it be competent for quantity and savingly operative and influential on the Heart and Life for quality Hos. 4.6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge c. 1 Cor. 13.1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels and have not charity I am become as a sounding brass or tinkling cymbal Q. 5. When is knowledge competent and influential A. When we truly understand by the teachings of the Father the sin and misery of the Fall the nature and necessity of Christ and under these convictions come to him in the way of Faith Iohn 6.45 Every man therefore that hath heard and hath learned of the Father cometh unto me And subject our selves to him in sincere obedience Matth. 11.28 29. Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest Take my yoke upon you and learn of me for I
am meek and lowly in heart and ye shall find rest unto your souls Q. 6. What are we to examine our selves about besides knowledge A. We are obliged to examine our selves about our Faith whether we have it in any saving degree 2 Cor. 13.5 Examine your selves whether ye be in the faith prove your selves c. For without Faith we cannot please God Heb. 11.6 But without faith it is impossible to please God c. Nor enjoy Spiritual Communion with Christ Eph. 3.17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith that ye being rooted and grounded in love Q. 7. What other Grace must be examined and sought for A. We must examine our Love to Christ and all that are his because no gifts signifie any thing without Love 1 Cor. 13.2 And though I have the gift of prophesie and understand all mysteries and all knowledge and though I have all faith so that I could remove mountains and have no charity I am nothing Q. 8. What else must worthy receivers examine themselves about A. The sincerity of their hearts evidenced by their Obedience without which they cannot worthily approach the Table 1 Cor. 5.8 Therefore let us keep the feast not with old leaven neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth Q. 9. But if upon examination we are in doubts about our Faith and Sincerity must we forbear A. If our doubts arise from the weakness and not the total want of Grace such doubts should not hinder us Rom. 14.1 Him that is weak in the faith receive you c. Q. 10. What is the danger of coming to the Lords Table without these Graces A. The danger is exceeding great to Soul and Body 1. To the Soul 1 Cor. 11.29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily eateth and drinketh damnation to himself c. And to the Body 1 Cor. 11.30 For this cause many are weak and sickly among you and many sleep Q. 11. What are the Duties of worthy receivers at the Lords Table A. Their Duties at the Table are to discern Christ by the eye of Faith under those signs of his Body and Blood 1 Cor. 11.29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily eateth and drinketh damnation to himself not discerning the Lords body On the discovery of him to mourn bitterly for sin Zech. 12.10 And they shall look upon me whom they have pierced and they shall mourn for him as one mourneth for his only son and shall be in bitterness for him as one that is in bitterness for his first-born And to excite all their Graces into vigorous acts for the applying Christ to themselves Cant. 4.16 Awake O north wind and come thou south blow upon my garden that the spices thereof may flow out c. Q. 12. What is the Duty of worthy receivers after the Sacrament A. Their Duty is heartily to bless God for Christ and the benefits of his Blood Matth. 26.30 And when they had sung an hymn they went out into the mount of Olives To double their care and watchfulness against sin Ephes. 4.30 And grieve not the holy spirit whereby ye are sealed to the day of redemption And to grow more fruitful in all spiritual obedience Col. 1.10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God Q. 13. What is the first Inference from hence A. That the abuse and profanation of this Ordinance either by coming to it for carnal ends or being forced upon it by fear of sufferings or approaching to it without due qualifications is a dreadful sin which God will terribly avenge Matth. 22.11 12 13. And when the king came in to see the guests he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment And he saith unto him friend how camest thou in hither not having on a wedding garment and he was speechless Then said the king unto the servants bind him hand and foot and take him away and cast him into outer darkness there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth Q. 14. What 's the second Inference from it A. That great and manifold are the blessings and advantages which Christians duly prepared may reap by this Ordinance Of Prayer Quest. 98. WHat is Prayer A. Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God for things agreeable to his Will in the name of Christ with confession of our sins and thankful acknowledgment of his mercies Q. 1. Who is the proper and only object of Prayer A. God only is the proper object of Prayer it is a part of his Natural Worship therefore 't is peculiarly his Honour and Prerogative and none else can hear and answer them but God Psal. 65.2 O thou that bearest Prayer unto thee shall all flesh come Q. 2. Through whom or in whose name are our Prayers to be directed to God A. Our Prayers are to be directed to God only through Christ and his Name and not by the mediation of Angels or Saints Col. 2.18 Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels For the merit and satisfaction of Christ alone give success and acceptance to our Prayers Rev. 8.3 4. And another angel came and stood at the altar having a golden censer and there was given unto him much incense that he should offer it with the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne And the smoke of the incense which came with the prayers of the saints ascended up before God out of the angels hand 1 Tim. 2.5 For there is one God and one mediatour between God and men the man Christ Iesus Q. 3. What 's the first property or quality of acceptable Prayer A. No Prayer can be acceptable to God except the matter of it be agreeable to his Will Iam. 4.3 Ye ask and receive not because ye ask amiss that ye may consume it upon your lusts 1 Joh. 5.14 15. And this is the confidence that we have in him that if we ask any thing according to his will he beareth us And if we know that he hear us whatsoever we ask we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him Q. 4. Is it enough to make Prayer acceptable that the matter is agreeable to Gods will A. No it is not for the manner as well as the matter must be so too Psal. 66.18 If I regard iniquity in my heart the Lord will not hear me Q. 5. What 's the first qualification of an acceptable Prayer respecting the manner of it A. That it be sincere and flowing from the heart of a regenerate person Prov. 15.29 The Lord is far from the wicked but he heareth the prayer of the righteous Jer. 29.13 And ye shall seek me and find me when ye shall search for me with all your hâ—art Q. 6. What 's the second qualification of Prayer respecting the manner A. It
Christian what condition God puts him into so that he may but be useful to Sanctifie and exalt the name of God therein Phil. 1.20 as always so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body whether it be by life or by death Q. 14. What 's the last Inference hence A. That it 's an high and dreadful provocation of God to prophane and abuse his worship whereon his Name is called and wherein it is to be Sanctified Levit. 10.1 2 3. And Nadab and Abihu the Sons of Araon took either of them his Censer and put fire therein and put incense thereon and offered strange fire before the Lord which he commanded them not And there went out fire from the Lord and devoured them and they died before the Lord. Then Moses said unto Aaron This is it that the Lord spake saying I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me and before all the people will I be glorified Of Gods Kingdom Quest. 102 WHat do we pray for in the Second petition A. In the second Petition which is Thy Kingdom come we pray that Satans Kingdom may be destroyed and that the Kingdom of Grace may he advanced our selves and others brought into it and kept in it and that the Kingdom of Glory may be hastened Q. 1. What is the first Thing Signified by the Kingdom of God here A. The Gospel is here intended by the Kingdom of God Matth. 13.47 Again the Kingdom of Heaven is like unto a net that was cast into the sea and gathered of every kind Q. 2. What 's the thing Signified by the coming of this Kingdom of God A. It signifies the removal of all impediments that hinder its propagation in the world 2 Thess. 3.1 Finally brethren pray for us that the word of the Lord may have free course and be glorified even as it is with you Q. 3. Who and what hinders the propagation of it A. Antichrist that man of sin hinders it externally 2 Thess. 2.4 Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God or that is worshipped so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God shewing himself that he is God The Devil and Mens Lusts internally 1 Thess. 2.18 Wherefore we would have come unto you even I Paul once and again but Satan hindered Luke 19.14 But his citizens hated him and sent a messenger after him saying We will not have this man to reign over us Q. 4. What then is the desire of all good men with respect to the coming of the Gospel-Kingdom A. That all Nations may be brought to Christ by the preaching of it and so Christs Kingdom be greatly exalted and enlarged Isa. 2.2 And it shall come to pass in the last days that the mountain of the Lords house shall be established in the top of the mountains and shall be exalted above the hills and all nations shall flow unto it Q. 5. What 's the second thing here meant by the Kingdom of God A. It signifies and intends the work of saving Grace wrought in Mens Souls Luke 17.21 Behold the kingdom of God is within you Q. 6. Why is this work of Grace called the Kingdom of God A. Because wherever saving Grace comes it subdues the Soul to Christs Sceptre 2 Cor. 10.5 Casting down imaginations and every high thing that exalteth it self against the knowledge of God and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. Q. 7. Wherein consists the Kingdom of Grace A. It consists not in external Rites and Observances but in Righteousness and Peace and Joy in the Holy Ghost Rom. 14.17 For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Ghost Q. 8. What do we ask of God in this Petition with respect to this Kingdom of Grace A. Herein we desire not only our own personal progressive Sanctification but the Sanctification of others all the World over Acts 26.29 And Paul said I would to God that not only thou but also all that hear me this day were both almost and altogether such as I am except these bonds Q. 9. What 's the third thing here meant by the Kingdom of God A. By it is here meant the future state of Glory and Blessedness 1 Cor. 15.50 Now this I say brethren that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God c. Q. 10. Why is the Heavenly state called the Kingdom of God A. This is called the Kingdom of God because in that state God reigns over his people gloriously there being no rebellion in them in the least degree Luke 20.36 For they are equal unto the angels and are the children of God being the children of the resurrection And they reign with Christ. Rev. 3.21 To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne c. Q. 11. What do we desire in Prayer for the coming of this Kingdom A. We desire not only our preservation in our passage to that state of Glory 1 Pet. 5.10 But the God of all grace who hath called us into his eternal glory by Christ Iesus after that ye have suffered a while make you perfect stablish strengthen settle you But the hastening of it to our selves and others Rev. 22.20 Amen even so come Lord Iesus Q 12. What 's the first Instruction hence A. That the Gospel is an invaluable Mercy as it is the instrument of bringing us into Christs Gracious and Glorious Kingdom Asts 26.18 To open their eyes and to turn them from darkness to light and from the power of satan unto God that they may receive forgiveness of sins and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me Q. 13. What 's the second Inference from hence A. That many men really hate and oppose the very thing they pray for Q. 14. What 's the last Instruction hence A. That how firmly soever Satans and Antichrists Kingdom seem to be founded in the World they must and shall fall before the dayly Prayers of the Saints Concerning the doing of Gods Will. Quest. 103. WHat do we pray for in the third Petition A. In the third Petition which is Thy Will be done in Earth as it is in Heaven we pray that God by his Grace would make us able and willing to know obey and submit to his Will in all things as the Angels do in Heaven Q. 1. What Will of God is here intended A. Not the Will of his Decree for that is in himself alone 1 Cor. 2.11 The things of God knoweth no man but the spirit of God Q. 2. What Will then is here meant A. The Will of his Providence may be here meant Psal. 125.6 Whatsoever the Lord pleased that did he in heaven and in earth in the seas and all deep places And Psal. 119.89 For ever O Lord thy word is setled in heaven Ver. 91. They continue this day according to tâ—â—ne ordinances for all are thy servants Q 3. How are we to understand
the doing of this Will of Providence in Heaven A. 1. As 't is done by the Sun Moon and Stars Psal. 119.89 Thy word is setled in heaven Vers 91. They continue this day according to thine ordinances Psal. 19.6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven and his circuit unto the ends of it and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof 2. As 't is done by Angels Psal. 104.4 Who maketh the angels spirits his ministers a flaming fire Heb. 1. ult Are they not all ministring spirits sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation Q. 4. How do these perform the Will of Gods Providence A. 1. The Heavenly bodies do it evenly constantly and unweariedly Psal. 104.19 He appointeth the moon for seasons the sun knoweth his going down 2. The Angels do speedily voluntarily chearfully and so knowingly Psal. 103.21 Ye ministers of his that do his pleasure Q. 5. Must we be agents in this Providential Will A. Yes we must Acts 13.36 For David after he had served his generation by the will of God fell on sleep Q. 6. How must we do it A. By imploying our abilities faculties and interests in the Duties of our particular Callings and by moving constantly prudently and vigorously in our own sphere and so imitate those in Heaven Q. 7. Why do we pray that Gods Will of Providence may be done by us A. Because we are his Creatures and the most noble instruments of the inferiour World and therefore we should be willing to be acted by him and active for him and because this Will of Providence is alwayes just good and true and for his own Glory Psal. 145.17 The Lord is righteous in all his wayes and holy in all his works Psal. 119.89 For ever O Lord thy word is setled in heaven Ver. 91. They continue this day according to thine ordinances for all are thy servants Q. 8. What other Will of God is here meant A. The Will of his Precepts and this is chiefly intended Q. 9. And how is this Will of God done in Heaven A. By the Angels 't is done universally chearfully constantly humbly thankfully loyally readily Psal. 103.20 Bless the Lord ye his angels that excel in strength that do his commandments hearkening unto the voice of his word And so 't is done by the Saints in Heaven Rev. 7.15 Therefore are they before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple And 22.3 And his servants shall serve him Q. 10. Do we pray then that we may thus do the Will of God A. Yes for though we cannot perfectly without sin do it yet that is our Duty Matth. 5. ult Be ye therefore perfect even as your father which is in heaven is perfect And in all other particulars we may and we must imitate them herein Psal. 119.6 Then shall I not be ashamed when I have respect unto all thy commandments Ver. 14. I have rejoyced in the way of thy testimonies as much as in all riches Ver. 60. I made hasâ—e and delayed not to keep thy commandments Ver. 112. c. I have inclined my heart to perform thy statutes alway even unto the end Q. 11. How must we know Gods Will A. Not notionally and rationally only but spiritually also 1 Cor. 2.14 They are spiritually discerned Q. 12. Why is knowing Gods will placed here before doing it c. A. Because the Understanding is the leading Faculty without which 't is impossible there should be any Obedience Prov. 19.2 Also that the soul be without knowledge it is not good Jer. 5.4 Therefore I said surely these are poor they are foolish for they know not the way of the Lord nor the judgment of their God Q. 13. Why pray we to God for this knowledge can we not know it of our selves A. No 't is the special gift and grace of God Gal. 1.15 16. But when it pleased God who separated me from my mothers womb and called me by his grace to reveal his son in me that I might preach him among the heathen immediateâ—y I conferred not with flesh and blood Eph. 1.17 19. That the God of our Lord Iesus Christ the father of glory may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us ward who believe according to the working of his mighty power Eph. 5.8 For ye were sometimes darkness but now are ye light in the Lord. Q. 14. Why do we pray that we may obey can we not do it of our own free will when we know it A. No for our Wills are stubborn and rebellious against Gods Commands as well as our Minds ignorant of them Rom. 8.7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God for it is not subject to the law of God neither indeed can be Ezek. 36.25 26. Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you and ye shall be clean from all your filthiness and from all your idols will I cleanse you A new heart also will I give you and a new spirit will I put within you and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh and I will give you an heart of flesh Phil. 2.13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure Q. 15. What is meant by submitting to Gods Will A. 1. Either a voluntary subjection of Soul and a preparedness actually to do his Will Or 2. a voluntary and silent submission to his Will of Providence in affliction but in this particular we cannot imitate those in Heaven because no cross ever befals them Q. 16. Why is Will added in all things A. Because partial Obedience is no Obedience he that does not obey God in every thing obeys him in nothing Iam. 2.10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law and yet offend in one point he is guilty of all Q. 17. Why do we pray that God by his Grace would work this Will in us and by us A. Because 't is Free-grace that determines it 2 Tim. 1.9 Who hath saved us and called us with an holy calling not according to our works but according to his own purpose and grace which was given us in Christ Iesus before the world began And efficacious Grace that works it in us and enables us to do it Eph. 5.8 For ye were sometimes darkness but now are ye light in the Lord. Ver. 10. Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. Q. 18. What is the first Inference from hence A. That 't is Mans glory and felicity to be conformed to the Will of God Prov. 12.26 The righteous is more excellent than his neighbour Psal. 19.10 11. More to be desired are they than gold yea then much fine gold sweeter also then honey and the honey-comb Moreover by them is thy servant warned and in keeping of them there is great reward Q. 19. What is the second Inference A. That we must mortifie