6.13 For thine is the Kingdome and the power and the glorie for euer Amen Which words though not repeated by Saint Luke yet are expresly mentioned by Saint Matthew and therefore causelesly and without warrant omitted by the Church of Rome Q. What is the meaning of these words First by Kingdome we here vnderstand Gods b 1. Chron. 29 11. absolute soueraignty and right ouer all things Secondly by power wee vnderstand the c Luc. 1.37 omnipotency of God whereby he is able to doe whatsoeuer he will Thirdly by glorie we do d Psal 65.1 2. thankefully referre all good things to the honor seruice of God that giueth them Fourthly when wee say thine and for euer wee exclude all creatures from fellowship with God in these attributes because howsoeuer Kingdom power and glorie are communicated vnto some creatures namely a Dan. 2.37 Princes as Gods instruments and b Psal 82.6 Vicegerents yet God alone claimeth them c Rom. 13.1 originally of himselfe d Pro 8.15 Job 33.13 absolutely without dependance or controll e â— Iam. 1.17 eternally without beginning or end Lastly by Amen wee vnderstand f Reuel 22.20 21. so be it or so it is or shall be Q. How is this a close of confirmation to our requests A. Because we doe not onely in generall ascribe Kingdome power and glorie vnto God as his due but also with respect vnto our prayers suites beleeuing and professing that hee as King of heauen and earth hath g Reuel 3.7 authoritie to dispose of all his treasures as omnipotent is h Eph. 3.20 able to do exceeding aboundantly aboue all that wee aske or thinke Finally as the God of glorie is interessed in the i Psa 35.27 welfare of his seruants for the maintaining of the honour of his name and a Psal 119.49 truth of his promises Wherefore wee also b Ioh 3.33 set to our seale in the word of faith Amen not onely testifying our earnest desire that so it may be but expressing our full assurance that so it shall bee as we haue prayed according to the will of God being alreadie c Math 7.7 8. let in by the key of faithfull prayer into the rich Treasurie of his mercies Q. This forme being so absolute what need wee vse any other words in praying A. Because as to refuse this forme sauoureth of a proud contempt of Christs ordinance so to confine our selues to these words alone argueth extreame idlenesse in this duty wherein d Hos 14.3 varietie of words is required for the powring out of our soules before the Lord and oftentimes according to the occasion some e Mat. 26.41 one petition is more then the rest to bee insisted on and importuned Wherefore our blessed Sauiour hath commended this for me vnto vs as an excellent coppie or lesson to be both repeated and as we may imitated or at the least aymed at by vs his schollers for which cause both a Ioh. 17.1 c. he himselfe and his b Act. 4.24 c. Apostles are recorded to haue prayed in other words which yet may be referred to these Finally the libertie which the Lord affordeth vs is not to bee abridged or despised who admitteth al languages words and formes agreeable to this patterne whether c 2. Chron. 29.30 Psal 90. 92 see the titles Num. 10.35 36. read rehearsed by heart or presently conceiued so be it we d 1. Cor. 14.15 pray both with spirit and affection and with vnderstanding also Q. What gestures of body must wee vse in praying A. Such as may best expresse and encrease the reuerence humilitie feruencie and affiance that ought to be in our hearts as the e Eph. 3.14 bowing of our knees f Lam. 1.41 Ioh. 17.1 lifting vp of our hands and eyes to heauen c which yet are not g Luc. 18.13 alwaies or absolutely necessary so our h Psal 143.8 hearts be lifted vp and the knees of our i Phil. 2.10 consciences bowed before the Lord and nothing done vnbeseeming the companie with whome wee pray and the kinde of prayer Q. What kinds are there of Prayer A. They are two Viz. 1. Publique in the a Psal 84.1 c. assembly or congregation wherein our behauiour must be b 1. Cor. 14.40 such as may witnesse our communion and desire of mutuall edification 2. Priuate that is either with our c 2. Sam 6.20 families or priuate friends or d Math 6.6 solitarily by our selues wherin wee haue * 1. King 18.42 more liberty of words and gestures then in company Q. Where must we pray A. Generally e 1. Tim. 2.8 all places are allowed the f Ioh. 4.21 c. ceremonial differences of place being remoued Christ our propitiatorie euery where g Matth. 18.20 present before vs notwithstanding according to the kindes aforementioned the publique place of resort for the worship of God h Esa 56.7 Ioel. 2.17 best fitteth common prayers and the priuate house or i Math. 6.6 closet is most conuenient for priuate supplication howsoeuer the k Nehe. 2.4 sudden lifting vp of the heart in secret vnto God may be as occasion is without gesture in whatsoeuer place or company Q. When must wee pray A. a 1. Thess 5.17 Continually as the Apostle enioineth for the whole course of a Christian is a perpetuall entercourse with the Lord either suing for mercies or b Psal 5.3 Luc. 2.37 waiting for the answere of his suits or rendring thanks for graces receiued neuerthelesse ordinarily the c Psal 92. title sabbath among the daies of the weeke and d verse 2. morning and euening among the houres of the day are to be preferred whereto such times must be added wherein we e Col. 3.17 Pro. 3.6 enter into any businesse or f 1 Cor. 10.31 1. Tim. 4.4 5 receiue any of the creatures and blessings of God extraordinarily g Psal 55.17 119.62 164. other daies or houres must also be set apart for praier especially in cases requiring longer continuance therein together with the h 1. Cor. 7.5 extraordinarie circumstance of fasting for the intension of our prayers SECT XLVII of Fasting the extraordinary circumstance of prayer Q. TO adde somewhat then concerning Fasting What meane you thereby A. Not any naturall abstinence arising from sicknesse nor medicinall vsed to preuent or remoue the same nor ciuill enioined sometimes by authoritie as in case of dearth sometimes a 2. Kings 6.25 enforced by necessitie as in siege seafaring c nor yet morall for b 1. Cor. 9.27 subduing of carnall concupiscence and preseruation of chastity required especially in some constitutions by vertue of the 7. Commandement but c Ioel. 1.14 religious that is referred to religious ends for the furtherance of the speciall practise of repentance and the enforcing of our prayers Q. What
and liues least by any meanes we dishonour him Secondly that we auoide both the company of profane persons who b Psal 73.9 set their mouth against heauen and all vnnecessarie dangers whereby c Mat. 26.69 c. diuers haue beene occasioned to deny the Lord. SECT XXVIII Of the fourth Commandement Q. VVHat are the words of the fourth Commandement A. d Exo. 20.8 c. Remember the Sabbath day to keepe it holy c. Q. What is the meaning of this Commandement A. To challenge at the hand of euery man in behalfe both of himselfe and of all that are vnder his roofe and e Nehem. 13.15 c. Jos 24.15 gouernement one day and now since the resurrection of Christ the first of the seauen in euery weeke to be set apart vnto an holy rest for Gods publique and solemne worship and that vpon a fourefold reason 1. From equitie because God alloweth vs six dayes for our affaires and reserueth but one for himselfe 2. From his owne right because this day is his and not ours 3. From his example who on the seuenth day rested from his work of Creation 4. From hope of blessing because God hath blessed and sanctified the Sabbath not onely as a day of seruice to himselfe but also as a time and a Exod 31.13 Esay 56.6 7. meanes to bestow encrease of grace vpon such as doe conscionably obserue the same Q. What are the duties required in this Commandement A. Three Viz. 1. To remember the Sabbath day that is not onely to looke back vnto the b Gen. 1.2 3 first sanction of it in Paradise before all sacrifices and ceremonies which reason among many others may perswade that it is not ceremoniall but perpetuall not to cease till it be perfectly a Heb. 4.9.10 consummated in the heauenly Sabbath but also so to beare it in minde as to liue in continuall practise of the duties wee learned the Sabbath past and b Luk. 23.54 preparation of our selues and our affaires that wee may freely and duely attend on the Lord in the Sabbath approching 2. To c Esay 58.13 make it our delight to consecrate it as glorious to the Lord performing with care and desire of profit the duties thereof in publique and priuate to wit Of d Act. 13.13 15 Psal 92 See the title pietie as hearing and reading the word communicating in the Sacraments prayer singing of Psalmes conferring meditating of the word and workes of God especially feeding our soules with the contemplation of the heauenly Sabbath c. Of e 1. Cor. 16.2 Nehe. 8.12 mercie as collections for the poore visiting the sicke comforting the sad reconciling such as are at variance and such like Wherein such as are necessarily debarred from the publique duties must with a Mat. 24.20 Psal 42.6 sorrow for such restraint vse more carefully the b Psal 63.1 2 priuate meanes 3. To c Exod. 34.21 31.13 rest from our ordinary though lawfull businesses for the space of that whole naturall day yea to allow rest to the very cattel both that we may shew d Pro. 12.10 mercy euen to the beast and to represent after a sort the euerlasting Sabbath wherein all e Ro. 8.20 21 creatures shall be deliuered from the bondage of corruption Notwithstanding such works are excluded as are presently necessarie either for the f Act. 1.12 Mat. 12.5 actions of pietie belonging to that day or for extraordinarie exigents of charitie for the g 2. Kin. 11.9 c. preseruation of the commonwealth or of our owne or others h Mat. 3.4 Mâ—t. 12.1 c life or i 1 Ver. 11. liuelihood in case of present necessitie or danger Q. What is forbidden in this commandement A. The vnhallowing or profaning of the Sabbath which is done 1. By making it a common day through common a Neh. 13.15 c. labour in our ordinarie callings b Esay 58.13 talking of our worldly affaires thinking of our owne thoughts or no other but a common vse of the creatures 2. By making it a day of carnall rest vnto idlenesse c Exod. 32.6 feasting pastimes c. Which draw our mindes farther from God then our ordinarie labours 3. By making it a day of sinne or the Diuels holiday doing that on the Lords day which is d Mar. 3.4 no day lawfull but then most e Ezek. 23.37 38 abhominable 4. By beeing f Amos 8.5 Mal. 1 1â— weary of the duties of the Sabbath thinking long till they be ended Q. What are the helpes or hinderances to the keeping of this commandement A. 1. We must adde to the forementioned duty of remembrance an ardent endeauour to tast the a Psal 42.2 3 84.1 c. sweetnes of holy exercises that so wee may come to make the Sabbath our delight 2. We must auoyd and abhorre all b Ezek. 22.26 prophane opinions either disannulling the necessitie of the Sabbath or equalling any other day to it together with such meetings and companies exercises and occasions whereby we shal be in daunger to be drawn to the vnhallowing of this day SECT XXIX Of the fift Commaundement Q. TO proceed to the second Table What are the words of the fift Commaundement A. c Exod. 20.12 Honour thy Father and thy Mother c. Q. What is the meaning and scope of this Commaundement A. That the qualitie of mens persons and places in whatsoeuer estate naturall ciuile or Ecclesiasticall with whatsoeuer relation to vs be duely acknowledged and respected and that vpon a a Eph 6.2 3. promise of the blessing of long life and b Deut. 5.16 prosperitie to such as in so doing shall shew that they regard the c Eph. 6.1 Rom. 13.1 2. image and ordinance of God Q. What is required in this Commaundement A. All due carriage of inferiours to their superiours and by consequent of superiors also to their inferiors and of equalls among themselues vnder the sweet relation betwixt parents and children or betwixt brethren of the same familie and the generall duetie of honour importing First that all inferiours as wiues children young persons subiects seruants hearers c. doe readily acknowledge and yeeld to their superiours d Leuit. 19.3 Eph. 6.5 reuerence in heart word and behauiour e Eph. 6.1 Col. 3.20 Tit. 3.1 Heb. 13.7 obedience and submission to their commaundements counsels and corrections f T it 2.10 fidelitie thankfulnesse g Rom. 13.6 7. Gal. 6.6 maintenance h 1. Tim 2.1 2 prayer to God for them with giuing of thankes i 2. Tim. 1.5 Phil. 4.9 imitation of their vertues and graces c. Secondly that all Superiours as husbands parents aged persons Magistrates Maisters Ministers c. doe answerably affoord to their inferiours a Eph. 5.23 Rom 13.4 protection and support b Mat. 7.9 10 prouision of good things for the bodie and the soule
vnderstanding full of blindnesse vanitie and infidelitie our consciences dead and remorselesse our hearts hard and impenitent our affections disorderly and violent our appetites sensuall and brutish our whole nature deformed with originall corruption our whole life abounding with the fruits thereof in all maner of actuall transgressions no ability to any good duty no restraint or moderation in sinning against thee yea if we doe any good thing we are apt to blemish it with selfe-loue and hypocrisie if we abstaine from any euill it is manie times rather from the act then from the loue of it In this case O Lord if thou shouldest looke vpon vs as a Iudge straightly to marke iniquities or take this our confession as an euidence against vs how should we be able to stand before thee But we beseech thee take knowledge of it as of our complaint and pitie our pouerty our miserie and our nakednes Cloath vs with the righteousnesse of Iesus Christ that may both hide our filthinesse from thy sight and as the garment of the elder brother make vs accepted before thee and procure thy blessing Acquaint thy selfe with vs O Lord and renew daily with vs the couenant of thy peace and euen now this morning let thy spirit from heauen bring vs a new patent of mercie that being to meet with thee in the waies and works of this day wee may be sure to meet thee as a reconciled Father not as an offeÌ„ded Iudge Fill vs with all ioy and peace in beleeuing Comfort vs ouer all our sinnes by the assurance of thy mercie Confirme vnto our heares our title vnto thy Kingdome And because o Lord we liue vpon thine hand and all our welldoing is from thee graunt that we may yeeld thee so much due that no Lords besides thee may rule ouer vs. And to that end good Lord doe thou free vs from the contrary power rule of Sathan of sinne It is not for thine honour O Lord that thy seruants should be vnder the yoake of thine enemies redeeme vs therefoâ—e mightily froÌ„ the thraldome of the diuel help vs to leade our captiuity captiue and stablish our hearts for euer by thy free spirit For where thy spirit is there is freedome Let that spirit of thine therefore O Lord come vpon vs and strengthen vs with a greater might then that of Samson to breake in sunder the strongest cords euen our speciall sinnes Teach vs to see the vilenesse of them powre vpon vs the spirit of grace and godly sorow that we may mourne for them affect vs with an holy hatred detestation of them waken vs out of our security with the feare of thy iudgements strenghen our weakenesse with the power of thy might arme vs with the furniture of thy grace encourage vs with the presence of thy spirit and be with vs in our spirituall conflict as the King in the armie Couer our heâ—ds assure our hearts instruct our hands helpe vs so to fight that wee may ouercome so to ouercome that we may receaue the crown of victorie Further O Lord we entreat thee so to let thy kingdome preuaile in vs that wee may not onely be thy souldiers but thy seruants and subiects To this end write thy lawes in our inward parts giue vs vnderstanding of thy will set vp the scepter of thy kingdome in our consciences subdue our hearts to the obedience of thy commandements win our affections to the loue of thy statutes conforme our liues to the rule of thy righteousnesse and transforme vs daily into thine image from glorie to glory Blesse all the meanes of grace vnto vs and blesse vs with hearts sanctified and set vpon the meanes for encrease of grace Let thy holy word O Lord bee our chiefest treasure thy statutes our counsellors thy promises our comforters thy sacraments our delicates thy sabbaths our best daies and thy seruants our deerest companions Let thy seruice be our liberty let thy yoake be our ease and thy burthen as wings vnto vs. Let thy louing countenance bee our sunne thy protection our shield and thy fauourable acceptance our exceeding great reward Grant that we may account this time of thy Gospell as our haruest and let vs not now sleepe least we be the sonnes of confusion but let vs so lay vp in these daies of plenty that in the time of dearth wee may haue something in store Teach vs so to number our daies and so to spend them that euerie day and euery night we may be able to giue vp a good account especially in the night of death and morrow of iudgement And now hauing begun to speak to thee our Lord though we be but dust and ashes we are bold to continue our suit euen for bodily blessings Blesse vs therefore we pray thee this day followinâ— and all the daies of our life with that portion of health peace prosperitie and euery good thing that may enable vs and make vs cheerefull in dutie Aduise vs in all our thoughts and purposes giue good successe vnto our lawfull endeauors strengthen vs in our bodily labours sanctifie vs in our meats and drinkes recreations and companies Grant that in doing seruice to our selues and one ano her wee may still remember that wee are thy seruants Giue vs such spirituall eyesight that we may see thee in thy creatures and in thy prouidence Grant that nothing may draw vs away from thee but that euery thing may bring vs neerer vnto thee Lord let vs liue in thy sight Let vs not liue without thee as Gentils let vs not be cast out of thy presence as Kain let vs not runne against thee as Balaam but let vs walke with thee as Enoch Noah and Abraham taking knowledge of thee in all our waies And take thou knowledge of vs vpholding vs with thine hand watching ouer vs with thine eie guiding vs with thy grace setting thine heart vpon vs to loue vs and doe vs good and not euill all the daies of our life Last of all wee come vnto thee O Lord in the behalfe of thy whole Church and of all our brethren and and sisters thine elect seruants wheresoeuer they bee Call the vncalled perfect the called raise vp the fallen strengthen the weake enlighten the ignorant heale the sicke releeue the needie and distressed release such as are in restraint comfort them that mourne especially such as mourne for sinne strengthen the hand and heart of them that stand in the iust defence of religion and right quaile and confound euerie Aduersarie and Antichristian power and pollicie and so publish and propagate the Gospell of Iesus Christ that thy name may be knowne thy kingdome enlarged the number of thy Saints fulfilled Specially wee beseech thee beholde and visite this thy vine which hauing rescued from the Egyptian darkenes and slauerie of Antichrist thou hast beene pleased to plant among vs of this nation Make vs more thankefull for our long peace and for the Gospell of peace Blesse thy seruant Iames
appointed food let it teach vs resolutely to shake of all impediments carefullie to redeeme all occasions and gladlie to embrace all opportunities of doing good Finally vnto all these good purposes worke in vs by thy holie word spirit a dailie encrease of liuing and sauing faith O Lord it is thine onely vnspeakeable gift without whom it is no more possible to beleeue that which thou promisest then to performe whatsoeuer thy law requireth Thou therefore O Father for Christ Iesus sake by the powerfull operation of thy Spirit worke and encrease in vs this mother grace Teach vs so to lay hold on Christ and lodge him in our hearts that we may not onely applie and assure vnto our selues all the promises of life and mercie but also cleanse our selues from all filthinesse of the flesh and spirit and grow vp vnto full holinesse in the feare of thy Maiestie And now Lord for outward things wee submit our selues to thy wise and fatherlie prouidence onely beseeching thee to giue vs this day what thou knowest needefull and behoofefull vnto vs for the day Lord feede vs with food conuenient for vs giue vs such a portion of health maintenance credit and all outward comforts as may make vs thankefull and seruiceable vnto thee And aboue all giue vs grace to employ and improue all thy blessings as thy talents to the furtherance of the worke thou hast giuen vs to doe Lord giue vs euerie day but especially on thy Sabbath dayes more then a naturall and common vse of thy good creatures Let vs in all things tast and see how sweet and gracious a God thou art Let thy good blessings be not as a wall to stop our sight that we may not looke beyond them but as a glasse through which wee may the better discerne thy loue and faithfulnesse towards vs concerning heauenly things Let vs serue thee with an vpright heart in the duties and businesses of this day bringing the generall profession of religion into particular practise according to our seuerall callings Lord let vs neuer bee a burden vnto humane societie nor a blemish vnto the profession of Christianitie by idlenesse or inordinate liuing Make our labours and endeauours fruitfull and beneficiall not onely vnto our selues that wee may eat thereof and reioice before thee but also vnto all others whom they concerne that they may praise thee with vs and for vs. Blesse thy whole Church O Lord and build it vp more and more in perfect beautie Take pittie on those thine elect that walke yet in darkenesse and cause the light of thy Gospell of grace to shine vnto them Confirme thy gracious worke in those who haue receiued the first fruits of thy spirit Comfort such as mourne for sinne Fulfill the desires of all that trulie long and sigh after thee Support and cure the infirmities of all that are humbled vnder thine hand and that haue seene affliction in the rod of thy visitation Preserue the good land wherein woe liue make vs more thankefull for all thy rich blessings and our manifold mightie deliuerances Saue thine Annointed seruant our Soueraigne Lord King Iames with our gracious Queene Anne and the Royall progenie Assist with thy spirit and grace all that are in authoritie sanctifie all those whom thou emploiest in the worke of the ministerie Remember in speciall mercie those whom thou hast knit vnto vs in the bands of consanguinitie affinitie neighbourhood or Christian amitie Finallie vnto all thine and ours vouchsafe Peace and mercy through Iesus Christ thy deere Sonne our alone Redeemer and Sauiour To whom with thee O Father and thy holie Spirit one God and King euerlasting be rendred all honor seruice and thankesgiuing for euermore Amen A short Prayer for the Euening O Almightie God King of Glory Father of Eternitie who dwelling on high abasest thy selfe to behold things in heauen in earth being the first the last giuest beginning ending to all times affaires wherein thy creatures are employed we acknowledg with humble thaÌ„kfull hearts the riches of thy bountie afforded vs thine vnworthie seruants as well this day now past as in the whole course of our liues Thou O Lord hast made vs and that fearfully and wonderfully thou hast been our hope from our mothers brests Thou hast lengthened the daies of our life vnto this houre therein hast shewed vs many mercies Thou hast freed our bodies from diseases dangers our names from reproch our substance from spoile our liberty from violent and vniust restraint Thou hast strengthened vs vnto labour satisfied vs with thy good creatures cheared our hearts with the fellowship and loue of thy people our fellow seruants and blessed our endeauors with successe through thy good prouidence Thou hast heard our prayers accomplished our desires turned away our feares mitigated our troubles and put an end from time to time to all our afflictions Thus hast thou shewed thy selfe to be the God that delightest in the prosperitie of thy seruants But O Lord how can we worthilie magnifie thy mercy towards vs in Iesus Christ In whom thou hast from all eternitie appointed an heauenly Kingdome vnto vs By whose word thou hast called vs by whose blood thou hast redeemed vs by whose Spirit thou hast sanctified and sealed vs vnto the day of redemption In whom we haue this liberty to call thee Abba Father In whom and with whom all earthly blessings are giuen vnto vs not onely for our bodily comfort but also as pledges of our heauenly inheritance Oh how deare therefore are thy thoughts of mercie vnto vs O Lord how great is the summe of them Blessed Father enlarge our hearts to comprehend thy loue and encline them to loue thee who hast so loued vs. But let vs mourne and be ashamed that wee haue returned nothing vnto thy maiestie but hatred for thy good will Let it strike our hearts that wee haue abused thy bodily blessings vnto couetousnesse or intemperance thy patience vnto presumption the grace of thy Gospell vnto licenciousnesse in sinning Let vs abhorre our selues that wee haue prophaned thy sabbaths despised thy word quenched thy spirit vnhallowed thy name many waies defiled the holy profession we haue taken vpon vs. Let vs repent in dust and ashes for our wilfull blindnesse of minde hardnesse of heart remorselessenesse of conscience whereby wee haue resisted the worke of thy grace in vs. Thou O Lord wouldest haue purged vs and we would not be purged thou wouldest haue cured vs but wee would not be cured Thâ—se and all other our sinnes O Lord let vs recount before thee with true sorrow and astonishment of heart But doe not thou O Father straightly marke iniquities nor deale with vs as we haue deserued Truth Lord vnto vs belongeth nothing but confusion and condemnation but vnto thee compassioâ— and forgiuenesse though wee haue grieuously rebelled against thee Thou hast in thy word proclaimed thy selfe vnto vs to be The Lord mercifull gracious slow to anger
the Minister and therefore euen from these points doth the same Apostle auouch his vnderstanding in the mysterie of Christ and withall being assured that for you it is a sure course 2. Cor. 13.3 Eph. 3.4 to be alwaies put in remembrance of these things 2. Pet. 1.12 though yee haue knowledge and bee established in the present trueth The experience of eleuen yeeres hath taught me that it is not enough to teach in publike vnlesse the auditors haue care to instruct themselues and one another priuately at home For which purpose I haue framed this Treatise by way of Question and answere a waye most familiar for instruction and whereby the spirit both of the answerer and of all that attend is stirred vp to bethinke themselues what might bee most aptly answered to the Question propounded Neither haue I done this onely in the larger Treatise but also extracted an Abridgement of the substance thereof in a farre briefer draught for the priuate vse of Christian families and help of the weaker sort that becomming all things to all men 1. Cor. 9.22 I might by all meanes saue some Wherefore as I haue out of my penurie cast in all that I had Luc. 21.4 euen these two mites into the treasurie of the Church So I earnestly desire thee Christian Reader especially you that are of my charge beloued in our Lord Iesus to whom as my labours are principally due and most familiar so from you aboue others I expect this Retaliation to employ this our Lords talent now in thy hands for thine owne best aduantage and of those that are committed vnto thee by the Lord. So shalt thou settle thy selfe and them vpon the ground of sauing truth So shalt thou be prepared to giue answere to euery man 1. Pet. 3.15 that shall aske of thee a reason of the hope that is in thee So shalt thou be able to make farre greater sweeter benefite of whatsoeuer thou shalt heare out of the word preached which vnto those that are ignorant of the grounds of Religion Esa 8.6 or despise these waters of Shiloah because they runne softly is many times vnprofitable and vnsauourie So shalt thou not be plucked away with the errour of the wicked whose itching eares 2. Pet. 3.17 18. 2. Tim. 4.3 2. Thes 2.10 2. Cor. 11.3 and harts not louing the truth are easily corrupted from the simplicitie that is in Christ and so fall from thine owne stedfastnesse but grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Sauiour Iesus Christ Finally Gal. 6.16 walking according to this rule peace shall be vpon thee and mercie as vpon the Israel of God Thine in the common faith and seruice of our Lord Iesus SAM CROOKE A TABLE OF THE seuerall Sections Section 1. OF mans happinesse in acquaintance with God making himselfe knowne to vs â—â— his word written Sect. 2. Of the Doctrine of of the Scriptures touching God himselfe Sect. 3. Of the Doctrine of the Scriptures touching the workes of God and first touching his eternall decree Sect. 4. Of the Execution of Gods decree and first of Creation Sect. 5. Of Prouidence sustaining disposing and employing all creatures especially Angels Sect 6. Of the Prouidence of God disposing of man in this world and of the state of Innocencie Sect. 7. Of the state of Corruption and miserie and first of the Fall of man Sect. 8. Of the consequents of the Fall and first of Sinne. Sect. 9. Of the second consequent of the Fall viz. Death and of the leauing of Reprobates in this fearfull state Sect. 10. Of the state of Redemption by the Couenant of Grace and of the foundation thereof viz. the Mediator Sect. 11. Of Jesus Christ his Person Offices twofâ—ld Estate of Humiliation and Exaltation Sect. 12. Of the application of the Couenant of Grace and first of our Vnion with the person of Christ Sect. 13. Of our Communion with Christ in regard of his Propheticall office by the Reuelation of the Couenant of Grace and of the first outward meanes of Reuelation viz. the Gospell preached Sect. 14. Of the second outward meanes viz. the Sacraments Sect. 15. Of Baptisme Sect. 16. Of the Lords Supper Sect. 17. Of the inward meanes of reuealing the Couenant of Grace viz. the Spirit and Faith Sect. 18. Of the manner of reuealing the Couenant of Grace viz. Vocation Sect. 19. Of the subiects to whom the Couenant of Grace is reuealed viz. the Church Sect. 20. Of our Communion with Christ in regard of his Priestly office viz. our Iustification Sect. 21. Of our Communion with Christ in regard of his Kingly Office viz Glorification and that begunne in this life and first in our condition Sect. 22. Of Glorification begunne in our nature viz. Sanctification Sect. 23. Of the rule of Sanctification viz. the Lawe with the direction of the Gospell Sect. 24. Of the Decalogue Sect. 25. Of the first Commandement Sect. 26. Of the second Commandement Sect. 27. Of the third Commandement Sect. 28. Of the fourth Commandement Sect. 29. Of the fift Commandement Sect. 30. Of the sixt Commandement Sect. 31. Of the seuenth Commandement Sect. 32. Of the eight Commandement Sect. 33. Of the ninth Commandement Sect. 34. Of the tenth Commandement Sect. 35. Of the effect or exercise of Sanctification viz. Repentance Sect. 36. Of the Spirituall warfare Sect. 37. Of good workes in generall Sect. 38. Of Prayer Sect. 39. Of the Lords Prayer the perfect forme and platforme of Prayer and of the Preface thereof Sect. 40. Of the first Petition Sect. 41. Of the second Petition Sect. 42. Of the third Petition Sect. 43. Of the fourth Petition Sect. 44. Of the fift Petition Sect. 45. Of the sixt Petition Sect. 46. Of the Conclusion of the Lords Prayer and of the ordinarie circumstances and kindes of Prayer Sect. 47. Of Fasting the extraordinarie circumstance of Prayer sect 48. Of Almes Sect. 49. Of the Prouidence of God concerning mankind after this life and first of particular Iudgement at the houre of Death Sect. 50. Of the generall and finall Iudgement and first of the Preparation thereto Sect. 51. Of the Act of the last Iudgement Sect. 52. Of the Execution of the last Iudgement and the euerlasting estate of the Reprobate in torment and the Elect in glorie THE GVIDE VNTO TRVE BLESSEDNES SECTION I. Of mans happinesse in acquaintance with God making himselfe known to vs in his word written Question WHat is it that all men doe and ought chiefly to desire Answer That being to liue a while in this world and for euer in another they may be both here hereafter a Num. 23.10 Psal 106 4 5 truly blessed Q. Wherein consisteth this true blessednesse of man A. Not in a Eccle. 1.2 himselfe nor in any other created thing but onely in b Psal 37.4 73.25 God his Creator who alone being infinite is able to fill the heart of man Q. How may man find
Cor. 3.9 these of the new Testament haue great preeminence SECT XV. Of Baptisme Q. VVHat is Baptisme A. The former Sacrament of the new Testament by the a Eph 5.26 washing of water representing the powerfull b 1 Cor 6.11 Heb. 10.22 washing of the bloud and spirit of Christ and so sealing our a John 3.5 Tit. 3.5 new birth and entrance into the Couenant of grace Q. How was this Sacrament ordained and brought into the Church in the place of Circumcision A. At the b Iohn 1.33 commandement of God by the ministery first of c Matth. 3.1 Iohn therefore called the Baptist after sanctified and confirmed by our Sauiour Christ himselfe being d Matt. 3.13 baptized by Iohn and giuing e Mat. 28.18 commission to his Apostles and Ministers to continue the same in his Church vnto the end Q. What are the necessary and essentiall parts of this Sacrament A. Two viz. 1. The outward element of f Iohn 1.31 water together with the actioÌ„ of g Eph. 5.26 Act. 8.36 c. 2.41 washing that is dipping or sprinkling the party baptized h Mat. 28.19 In the name of the Father the Sonne and the holy Ghost 2. The spiritual thing signified viz. the i Heb. â— 14 bloud k 1. Cor 6.11 spirit of Christ washing away both the l Act. 2.38 guilt and m Eze. 36.25 filthinesse of sinne Q. Doth this spiritual washing alwaies accompany the outward action A. No for howsoeuer God for his part doe euer a Ezek. 24.13 offer it at the present vnto all yet doe the b 1. Pet. 1.2 Elect onely effectually partake the spirituall benefit and that c Gal. 3.27 then first when by the spirit and faith they are vnited vnto Christ from which time baptisme once receiued remaineth a d Zech. 13.1 fountain alwaies open for sinne and for vncleannesse Q. How farre forth doth Baptisme cleanse the elect from sinne A. From e 1. Cor. 6.9.10 11. 1. John 1.7 Psal 51 7. all sins as well actuall as originall as wel committed after Baptisme as before and that f Esay 1.18 perfectly in respect of the guilt although g Ioh. 13.10 Psal 51.2 imperfectly by degrees in respect of the pollution and power of sinne Q. Who are to be admitted to this Sacrament A. Whosoeuer are outwardly comprehended in the Couenant whether th y be 1. of riper yeares h Acts 8.37 coÌ„uerted to the profession of the faith or 2. i 1 Cor. 7.14 children borne of Christian parents SECT XVI Of the Lords Supper Q. VVHat is the Lords Supper A It is the other Sacrament of the new Testament wherein God by the signes of bread and wine signifieth sealeth and exhibiteth to euery faithfull receiuer the body and bloud of Christ for his spirituall nourishment and growth in Christ so confirmeth him in the Couenant of Grace Q. How was this Sacrament instituted in stead of the Passeouer A. Our Lord Iesus Christ a 1. Cor. 11.23 in the night that he was betraied b Matth. 26.26 c. immediatly after hee had eaten the Passeouer with his Disciples did both himselfe with them celebrate this holy Sacrament and withall c 1. Cor. 11.24 25 26. giue charge for continuance of the same in the Church vntill his second comming in which regard it is called the d 1. Cor. 11.20 Lords Supper Q. What are the essentiall parts of this Sacrament A. As of all other Sacraments two to wit 1. The outward signes viz. the a Mat. 26.26 27. elemeÌ„ts of bread wine together with the actions of blessing distributing taking communicating according to our Sauiours first institution 2. The spiritual b Ibid. things signified viz. the body bloud of Christ sanctified and c Ioh. 6.50 51 giuen vs by God and by faith receiued of vs for the nourishing and preseruing of our soules and bodies vnto eternall life Q. Is Christs body and bloud together with the outward elements receiued of all Communicants A. No for howsoeuer they be d Mat. 26.26 offred by God to all yet are they receiued by such alone as haue the hand of faith to lay hold on Christ As for those that come without faith they receiue e 1. Cor. 11.27 onely the outward elements and that vnto f Vers 29. condemnation Q. Who are to be partakers of this Sacrament A. All baptized who are of yeeres sound iudgement to discerne the Lords body ought to repaire to this Sacrament but those onely come worthily who professing the true faith haue duly a 1. Cor. 11.28 examined prepared theÌ„selues Q. How ought euery Christian comming to this SacrameÌ„t to examin prepare himselfe that he may come worthily A. By due search triall of himself whether he haue in him the conditions by God required in worthy Communicants viz. b 2. Cor. 13.5 1. Tim. 1.15 Faith grouÌ„ded vpoÌ„ knowledge both of Gods will in generall this holy Sacrament in particular c Heb. 10.22 Iames 48. RepentaÌ„ce of sins past atteÌ„ded with true d Zech. 12.10 lâ—ue of God of his e 1. Cor. 16.14 brethren Q. How ought euery Christian thus prepared to demeane himselfe in receiuing and after A. 1. In the present actioÌ„ with reuereÌ„ce intention thanksgiuing f 1. Cor. 11.26 coÌ„memorating the Lords death for the coÌ„fort refreshing of his soul g Rom. 12.1 ofring vp himselfe soule body as a sacrifice of thanks in which regard it is called the Eucharist 2. Afterward coÌ„tinually indeuoring to finde an h Col. 2.6 7. increase of his faith in Christ loue to God all his saints power to subdue sinne and practise obedience with all other * 2. Pet. 3.18 sauing and sanctifying graces SECT XVII Of the inward meanes of reuealing the Couenant of Grace viz. the Spirit and Faith Q. VVHat are the inward meanes whereby God reuealeth his Couenant of Grace A. They are 2. Viz. 1. The Spirit 2. Faith Q. What is here meant by the Spirit A. A speciall effect of the Spirit of Christ before-mentioned dwelling in our hearts testifying on Gods part his free loue and gracious purpose touching our saluation in a Psal 35.3 particular bearing b Rom. 8.16 witnesse with our spirits that we are in Christ his Children and hee our Father withall guiding vs to the c Psal 16.7 Ioh. 14.26 knowledge of the whole will of God reuealed in his word called therefore the d Ephes 1.17 spirit of wisedome or Reuelation Q. Doth the Spirit alwaies witnesse the loue of God vnto vs A. The witnesse of the spirit is a Rom. 5.5 Ephes 2.13.14 continuall yet it is b Psal 51.10 ver 7.8 not alwaies with like feeling and comfort apprehended because neither are our hearts alwaies alike purged humbled and enlarged to receiue it nor the
necessitie is there of fasting A. Howsoeuer the a Rom. 14.17 Kingdome of God consist not properly in the matter of meate and drinke whether vsed or forborne yet fasting as an extraordinarie helpe vnto the chiefe exercises of pietie hath the warrant waight of a dutie as well from precepts as examples both out of the b Leuit. 23.27 c. Ioel 1.12 Esa 22.12 old Testament and the c Mat. 9.14 15 Act. 13.3 new Q. When is this religious exercise of Fasting to be performed of Christians A. When God calleth vpon vs for this duety by the d Mat. 9.15 occasions arising from his prouidence and our own necessities Q. What are those occasions whereby the Lord calleth vs to fasting A. They are generally two Viz 1. Euils which being felt or feared we desire to remoue or to preuent as e 1. Sam 7.6 1. Cor. 5.2 sins and the f Esther 4 16 Jonah 3.7 Math 17.21 iudgements of God for sinne 2. Good things g Act. 10.30 spirituall or h Nehem. 1.4 outward which we desire to enioy and therefore doe thus seeke them and prepare our selues for the receiuing of them Q. Whome doth God call vnto this exercise of fasting A. a Zech. 12.12 c. All Christians enabled by vnderstanding and grace to iudge and performe aright this weighty duty vnles any be exempted by present b Math. 12.7 1. Sam. 14.29 30. debility but differently according to the diuerse occasions of fasting kindes thereon depending Q. What are the kindes of fasting A. They are two Viz. 1. Publique when the c Ioel 2.15 gouerners and magistrates stirred vp by consideration of common d Nehem. 9.1 c. sinnes e Iona. 3.7 8 calamities necessities or businesses of great importance doe in the name of God blow the trumpet cal a solemn assembly or assemblies in which case he that obeyeth not is f Leuit. 23.29 culpable before God and man 2. Priuate when vpon the view either of g Ezek. 9 4. Ier. 13.17 publique causes not considered of by such as are in authoritie or of the like but more priuate occasions as domesticall or personall c. a Christian is moued either with his h Zech. 12.12 1. Cor. 7.5 familie or speciall friends or by himselfe a Math. 6.17 solitarilie to humble himselfe before the Lord. Wherein the more secrecie is vsed the greater proofe is there of sinceritie and hope of blessing Q. What are the parts of a true Christian fast A. They are two Viz. First * 1. Tim. 4.8 bodily exercise seruing to the inward substance Secondly an inward substance sanctifying the bodilie exercise and making it profitable vnto the vsers Q. What is the bodily exercise in fasting A. It is the forbearing of things otherwise lawfull and conuenient as labor in our vocations in which respect such times are called b Leuit. 23.32 sabbaths c Esther 4.16 food from whence the whole action hath his name of fasting sleepe d Joel 2.16 1. Cor. 7.5 vse of the marriage bed e Dan 6.18 musicke mirth perfumes f Exod. 33.4 c. choice apparell or whatsoeuer ornaments of the body All which and the like are to bee forborne in whole or in part for the time of humiliation as from g Iud. 20.26 2. Sam. 3.35 morning till euening or from * Leuit. 23.32 euening till euening againe so as nature bee chastised but not disabled for seruice and the delights of sence laid aside but yet without annoyance vncomelinesse Q. What is the spirituall substance of duty whereto the bodily exercise serueth A. It is an extraordinary endeauour of a Ezra 8.21 humbling our soules before the Lord and of seeking his face and fauour consisting 1. In the b Ioel 2.13 abasing of our selues by examination confession and hearty bewailing of our owne and the common c Ezra 9.3 4 c. Nehem. 9.1 2 c. Dan 9.3 4 5 c sinnes setting before our eies the glasse of Gods holy law with the bitter curses threatned to the breakers thereof the examples of vengeance on the wicked the iudgements now felt or feared of vs but especially the spirituall d Zech. 12.10 c. contemplation of our blessed Sauiour bleeding on the crosse with the wounds which our sinnes haue forced vpon him 2. In a Luc. 15.18 21. drawing neere vnto the Lord by faith enabling vs not onely feruently and importunately to knocke at the gate of his mercie for the b Psal 51.1 2 c. vers 14. pardon of sinne remoouall of iudgements and graunt of the graces and blessings we need but also to make a c Nehem. 9.38 sure couenant with his Maiestie of d Esa 55.7 Ionah 3.8 renewing and bettering our repentance thenceforward in a more earnest effectuall hatred of sin and loue of righteousnesse Q. What fruit or successe may wee looke for hauing thus sought the Lord A. e Ioel 2.14 18. c. Jonah 3.9 10. Who knoweth whether by this meanes wee may stand in the gap and cause the Lord to repent of the euill intended and to spare his people At the least for our particular we shal receiue the f Ezek. 9.4 6. marke and mercy promised to such as mourne for the abhominations generally committed g Mat. 6.18 Pro. 28.13 1. Joh. 1.9 together with plentifull euidence of our saluation and assurance of the loue of God towards vs strength against tēptations patience and comfort in afflictions with all other graces plentifully vouchsafed especially vpō such renuing of acquaintance by a Heb. 11.6 him who is the rewarder of all that come vnto him So that wee neede not doubt but that as we haue b Psal 126.5 sowen in teares so we shall reape in ioy and as wee haue sought the Lord with fasting mourning so he will yet againe be c Ezek. 36.37 sought and found of vs with holy feasting spirituall reioycing A d Psal 30.11 12. 50.15 Nehe. 8.10 Esther 9.22 dutie required for the acknowledgement of such mercies as we haue by the former course obtained and so answering thereto that from the one with due reference the other may be conceiued SECT XLVIII Of Almes Q. HAuing spoken of Prayer and of Fasting the extraordinarie circumstance thereof let vs proceede to Almes What is Almes A. It is a duetie of Christian loue whereby * 1. Tim 6.17 18. Math. 5.42 such as haue this worlds good doe freely impart to such as are in want Q. How can it be both a duety and withall free A. 1. That it is a duty appeareth by many formal a Deut. 15.7 c. Heb. 13.16 precepts touching this matter in that it is called out b Psal 112 9. Math. 6.1 iustice or righteousnes in that euerie man is a c 1. Pet. 4.10 steward of Gods blessings for the benefit of
What is faith A. The first effect of the spirit of Christ d Eph. â— 16 17. disposing vs to cleaue to him and the instrument whereby all graces are begun and increased in vs. SECT XIII Of the Gospell Q. VVHat is our communion with Christ A. The participation of the benefits flowing from his seueral offices Q. What benefite receiue wee from the Propheticall office of Christ A. The a Math. 11.27 reuelation of the Couenant of grace whereby we are made b 2. Tim. 3.15 wise vnto saluation Q. What meanes doth God vse for the reuealing of this couenant A. The meanes are of two sorts Viz. outward and inward Q. What are the outward meanes A. The word and the Sacraments Q. What meane you by the word A. The c Eph. 1.13 Gospell preached which â—ontaineth and publisheth the promises of saluation by Christ SECT XIIII Of Sacraments Q. VVHat are Sacraments A. a Rom. 4.11 Seales annexed by God to the word of his Grace b Gal. 3.27 assuring our part in Christ and c Rom. 6.4 binding vs vnto him in obedience Q. What Sacraments are there of the Couenant of Grace A. They be of two sorts Viz some of the old Testament before Christ others of the new vnder Christ Q. What were those Sacraments of the old Testament A. Two Viz d Gen. 17.10 Circumcision for entrance into the Couenant and the e Exod. 22.3 c. Passeouer for continuance and confirmation therein Q. How many Sacraments are there of the new Testament A. Two likewise Viz Baptisme for entrance and the Lords Supper foâ— confirmation in the same Couenant SECT XV. Of Baptisme Q. VVHat is Baptisme A. The seale of our a Tit. 3.5 new birth and entrance into the Couenant of Grace Q. What are the parts of this Sacrament A. They are two namely first the b Eph 5. â—6 element of water with the action of dipping or sprinkling the partie baptised c Math. 28.19 In the Name of the Father the Sonne and the holy Ghost Q. What is the other part A. The d Heb. 9.14 blood and e 1. Cor. 6 2â— Spirit of Christ washing away both the f Act. 2.38 guilt and g Ezek. 36.25 Rom. â— 2.3 c. filthinesse of our sinnes Q. Who are to be baptised A. Whosoeuer belong to the Couenant whether h Act. 8.37 of riper yeares conâ—erted to the faith or i 1. Cor. 7.14 children of Christian parents SECT XVI Of the Lords Supper Q. VVHat is the Lords supper A. The seale of our a Eph. 4.26 spirituall nourishment and grouth in the bodie of Christ Q. What are the parts of this Sacrament A. Two Viz First the b Mat. 26.26 27. elements of bread and wine distributed and receiued according to Christs institution Q. What is the other part A. The * Mat. 26.26 27 28. bodie and blood of Christ giuen by God and receiued of vs by faith for the d Joh. 6.54 nourishing of our soules in spirituall life Q. Who are to receiue this Sacrament A. Such as professing the true faith of Christ haue duely e 1. Cor. 1.28 prepared themselues Q. How ought wee to prepare oâ—â— selues A. By examining and stirring vp in our selues three notable graces Q. What is the first A. Knowledge of the will of God especially touching the matter of the Sacrament a 1. Cor. 11.29 that wee be able to discerne the Lords body Q. Which is these second A. b 2. Cor. 13.5 1. Tim. 1.15 Faith to apply the promises of saluation vnto our selues in particular Q. Which is the third A. c Zech. 12.10 Jam. 4. â— Repentance of our sinnes past with true d 1. Cor. 16.14 loue of God and of our Brethren Q. How ought wee to receiue this Sacrament A. In a reuerent and thankefull e 1. Cor. 11.24 25 26. remembrance of the loue of Christ who gaue himselfe for vs with desire to f 2. Pet. 3.18 grow in faith and all holy graces SECT XVII Of the spirit and faith Q. WHat are the inward means whereby God reuealeth his Couenant of Grace A. They are 2. Viz the spirit faith Q. What is here meant by the spirit A. A speciall effect of the Spirit of Christ a Rom. 8.16 bearing witnes with our spirits that we are in Christ the children of God Q. What is here meant by faith A. That speciall act of faith whereby wee b 1. Joh. 5.10 Joh. 3.33 giue credit vnto the report of the word and spirit of Christ touching our saluation in particular SECT XVIII Of Vocation Q. VVHat is the maÌ„ner of reuealing the CouenaÌ„t of Grace A. It is our c Rom. 8.30 Vocation and Callingâ— when God by the meanes aforesaid inuiteth men to come vnto him in Christ for saluation Q. Are there not different kinds of Calling A. Yes for a Math. 22.14 many are called outwardly who are not chosen but the Elect are b Psal 65.4 effectually perswaded to â—leaâ—e vnto Christ SECT XIX Of the Church Q. To whom doth God reueale his Couenant of Grace A. c Joh. 14.22 Not to the world but to his Church called out of the world Q. What meane you by the Church A. The d Eph. 5.32 1. Cor. 1.9 whole number of Gods Elect effectually called into fellowship with Christ Q. Where is this Church of God A. Part already e Reuel 7.14 c. triumphant in heauen part as yet f Reuel 12.11 militant on earth in the seruice and warfare of the Lord Iesus Q. Who are meÌ„bers of the Church militaÌ„t A. As many as are liuing g Eph. 1.22 23. members of the mysticall bodie of Christ Q. How may we know them A. Not by the inward graces a 2. Tim. 2.19 onely knowne to God whereby they are inuisible to vs but by the markes of visible profession Q. What are the true markes of visible profession A. The outward meanes appointed by God for the calling and gathering of his Saints viz. b Mat. 28.19 20. the word preached and Sacraments duely administred Q. Are we to ioyne with all Churches that haue these markes A. c Phil. 1.18 Cant. 1.5 Yea neither must wee separate from any farther then they separate from Christ Q. What distinction is there of the particular members of a Church A. Though all be the sheepe and familie of Christ yet d 1 Cor. 12 2â— Luk. 12.42 some are set-ouer the rest to feede them with the foode of life as the Ministers and e Ps 78.71 72 others to rule and order them outwardly as the Magistrates SECT XX. Of Iustification Q. VVHat benefite receiue we from the Priestly office of Christ A. Our a Rom. 8.30 Iustification before God through his b Phil. 3.9 righteousnes imputed vnto vs and apprehended by vs. Q. What righteousnesse of Christ is imputed to vs A. c