AN EXPOSITION OF THE Assemblies Catechism WITH PRACTICAL INFERENCES From each QUESTION As it was carried on in the Lords Days Exercises in DARTMOUTH In the First Year of Liberty 1688. By IOHN FLAVELL Preacher of the Gospel in DARTMOUTH 2 Tim. 1.13 Hold fast the form of sound words which thou hast heard of me in faith and love which is in Christ Iesus LONDON Printed for Tho. Cockerill at the Three Legs in the Poultry over against Stocks-Market 1692. And because the Answers therein are some of them pretty large and Treat of the most profound Mysteries of our Religion therefore several Persons have bestowed their good and laudable Pains some in descanting more largely and proving by Scriptural Reasons the Particulars and one has shewn the harmony thereof with the Articles and Homilies of the Church of England designed I suppose to remove the prejudice which some have taken against it Others have parted the Questions and Answers into several little ones under each to make them more intelligible to younger ones and more easy to be remembred Among whom Worthy Orthodox and Excellent Mr. Iohn Flavell may be ranked who among other of his many and most profitable Labours applied himself to the chewing of this Bread of Life or crumbling it into smaller pieces for the Cenveniency of Children and indeed of all wherein as in all his other Works he hath shewn himself a Workman that needs not to be ashamed There needs no other recommendations to this Posthumus Piece but the worthy Author's Name he was removed before he had compleatly finished it he had prepared his Questions and Answers upon the second Petition of the Lord's Prayer but lived not to propose them in the publick Congregation God then translated him into his Kingdom of Glory above while he was so industriously endeavouring to promote the Kingdom of Grace below The other five remaining Questions and Answers to compleat the Work were done by a ruder hand as may easily be discerned by any observant Reader who will find himself transfer'd from a plain clear and delightful Stile method and manner into more rough disorderly and unpleasant ones for who indeed could equal this Divine Labourer Not the Compleater who would account himself to have made very great Attainments in Divinity and Usefulness if he were left but a few furlongs behind him Let the Reader use and peruse this Piece and he will see cause to bless God for the Author VALE TO THE READER THE Divine Providence having unexpectedly cast my Lot for a few Days in Dartmouth where that blessed man of God Mr. John Flavell did for many years honour Christ and was honoured by him I have been favoured with a sight of that most judicious Explication of the Assemblies Catechism which is emitted herewith Being desired to testify my Respect to the worthy Author by Prefacing this Excellent Labour of his with a few Lines I can truly say as sometimes Beza of Calvin Now Mr. Flavell is dead Life will be less sweet and Death less bitter to me My heart bleeds to look on this desolate Place and not to see him that whilst living was the glory of it But neither the Author nor his Writings stand in need of the commendation of others much less of mine His Works already published have made his Name precious in both Englands and it will be so as long as the Earth shall endure There are some considerations which may cause the Reader to expect and he will not find himself disappointed therein that which is extraordinary in this little Manuel for the Author's Heart was very much engaged in doing this Service for Christ in thus feeding his Lambs And he did himself design the Publication of what is here committed to the Press and was very desirous with an holy submission to the Will of God to have perfected this Work before his Decease but had strange intimations that he should finish his Course before that could be done When he did viva voce deliver his Meditations there were many Enlargements and lively Passages which are not here inserted nevertheless here is as much as he thought needful for publick view not being willing that his Book should be Voluminous In his last Catechetical Exercise concerning Hallowing the Name of God he was exceedingly enlarged but he must himself go into the Kingdom of Glory when he intended to have discoursed on that Petition Thy Kingdom come He also began some Meditations on the Joys of Heaven But before he had an opportunity to express what had been in his Heart the Lord Iesus said unto him Enter thou into the Joy of thy Lord. And thus doth it happen many times to the eminent and holy Servants of God Another Consideration recommending what comes herewith is that it was amongst Mr. Flavell's last Works The 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Last Sayings of wise and great Men have been esteemed Oraculous and the Scripture puts an Emphasis on the last Words of David the sweet singer of Israel 2 Sam. 23.1 Not that those were the last words that ever David spake only they were written not long before his Death when he was come near Heaven So was what is now put into the Reader 's Hand written by Mr. Flavell not long before his translation to the World of Souls where the Spirits of Iust men are made perfect There was a more than ordinary presence of God with him to his last and in his last Days not the last Sermon that he preached which was June 21. 1691. He did more than once surprize his Hearers with an Intimation that that might be the last time he should speak to them in the Name of the Lord. And was not then the Secret of the Lord with him Dartmouth will know and Devonshire will know that there has been a Prophet among them And now my Soul bleeds to Look on the dear Flock of God which are as Sheep without a Shepherd The Lord Iesus the great Shepherd of the Sheep bave compassion on them and give them a Shepherd like to his blessed Servant Flavell who did for many years feed them with Knowledge and with Understanding Dartmouth March the 21th 1691 2. Increase Mather AN EXPOSITION OF THE Assemblies Shorter Catechism 1 Question Of Man's Chief End WHat is the Chief End of Man A. Man's Chief End is to glorify God and to enjoy him for ever Q. 1. Seeing a Chief supposeth an inferior End What is that inferior End for which man was made A. It was prudently soberly and mercifully to govern use and dispose of other Creatures in the Earth Sea and Air over which God gave man the Dominion Gen. 1.26 And God said Let us make man in our Image after our likeness and let them have domonion over the Fish of the Sea and over the Fowl of the Air and over the Cattel and over all the Earth and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the Earth So Psal. 8.6 Thou madest him to have dominion over
us which most resembles God and therefore our chief regard and care should be for them whatever becomes of the vile Body Mat. 16.26 For what is a man profited if he gain the whole world and lose his own Soul Or what shall a man give in Exchange for his Soul Q. 7. What further Truth may be inferr'd hence A. That men should beware of spiritual Sins as well as of gross and outward Sins for there is a filthiness of the Spirit as well as of the Flesh. 2 Cor. 7.1 Let us cleanse our selves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit and as God sees them so he greatly abhors them as Sins that defile the noblest part of man on which he stamp'd his own Image Q. 8. What also may be inferr'd from hence A. Hence we learn that spiritual Worship is most agreeable to his Nature and Will and the more spiritual it is the more acceptable it will be to him Iohn 4.24 God is a Spirit and they that worship him must worship him in Spirit and in Truth Externals in worship are of little regard with God as places habits gestures c. Apply this First To Superstitious men Isa. 66.1 2 3. Secondly To Children that say a Prayer but mind not to whom nor what they say Of God's Infinity Quest. 1. WHat is the sense and meaning of this Word Infinity A. It signifies that which hath no bounds or limits within which it is contained as all created things are Q. 2. In how many respects is God infinite A. God is infinite or boundless in three respects First In respect of the perfection of his Nature his Wisdom Power and Holiness exceed all measures and limits as 1 Sam. 2.2 There is none holy as the Lord c. Secondly In respect of time and place no time can measure him Isa. 57.15 Thus saith the high and lofty one that inhabiteth Eternity 1 Kings 8.27 Behold the Heaven of heavens cannot contain thee how much less this House which I have built The Heaven of heavens contains all created Beings but not the Creator Thirdly In respect of his Incomprehensibleness by the understanding of all creatures Iob. 11.7 Canst thou by searching find out God canst thou find out the Almighty to perfection Q 3. If God be thus Infinite and no understanding can comprehend him How then is it said in 1 John 3.2 VVe shall see him as he is A. The meaning is not that glorified Saints shall comprehend God in their understandings but that they shall have a true apprehensive Knowledge though not a comprehensive Knowledge of God and that we shall see him immediately and not as we do now thorow a glass darkly Q. 4. What is the first Lesson to be learnt from God's Infinity A. That therefore men should tremble to sin even in secret Psal. 139.11 If I say surely the darkness shall cover me even the Night shall be light about me Q. 5. What is the second Instruction from hence A. The second Instruction is That there is an infinite evil in sin objectively consider'd as it is committed against an Infinite God and therefore it deserves Eternal Punishment and no satisfaction can possibly be made for it but by the Blood of Christ. 1 Pet. 1.18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things as Silver and Gold but with the precious Blood of Christ. Q. 6. What is the third Instruction from God's Infinity A. The third Instruction is That those who are reconciled to God in Christ need not fear his ability to perform any mercy for them for he is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we can ask or think Ephes. 3.20 And those that are not reconciled are in a very miserable condition having infinite Power set on work to punish them 2 Thes. 1.9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his power Q. 7. What is the fourth Instruction from God's Infinity A. That no place can bar the access of gracious Souls to God They are as near him in a Dungeon as when at Liberty and that he knows their thoughts when their tongues cannot utter them Eternal Quest. 1. WHat is it to be Eternal as God is A. The Eternity of God is to be without beginning and without end Psal. 90.2 From everlasting to everlasting thou art God Q. 2. How doth God's Eternity differ from the Eternity of Angels and Humane Souls A. It differs in two respects First In this That tho Angels and the Souls of men shall have no end yet they had a beginning which God had not Secondly Our Eternity is by gift from God or by his appointment but his Eternity is necessary and from his own Nature Q. 3. In what sense is the Covenant called an everlasting Covenant A. The Covenant is called an Everlasting Covenant 2 Sam. 23.5 because the mercies of it conveyed to believers as pardon peace and salvation are mercies that shall have no end Q. 4. In what sense is the Gospel Everlasting A. The Gospel is called the Everlasting Gospel Rev. 14.6 because the effects thereof upon the Souls it sanctifies will abide in them for ever Q. 5. In what sense is the Redemption of Christ called the Eternal Redemption A. The Redemption of Christ is called Eternal Redemption in Heb. 9.12 because those whom he redeems by his Blood shall never more come into condemnation Iohn 5.24 He that heareth my word and believeth on him that sent me hath everlasting life and shall not come into condemnation but is passed from death unto life Q. 6. VVhy is the last Iudgment of the world by Christ called Eternal Iudgment A. The last Judgment is called Eternal Judgment not because God judged men from Eternity or because the Day of Judgment shall last to Eternity but because the consequences of it will be Everlasting Joy or Misery to the Souls of Men therefore it 's called eternal judgment Heb. 6.2 Q 7. VVhat may wicked men learn from the Eternity of God A. Hence wicked men may see their own misery in the perfection of it that they will have an eternal Enemy to avenge himself upon them for ever in the world to come 2 Thess. 1.9 VVho shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord. Q. 8. VVhat may good men learn from it A. That their joy and happiness will be perfect and endless who have the Eternal God for â—heir portion Psalm 16.11 In thy presence is fulness of joy at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore Q. 9. VVhat may all men good and had learn from it A. All men may learn three things from the Eternity of God First That their life is a thing of nought compared with God Psal. 39.5 Mine age is nothing before thee Secondly That sins or duties long since committed or performed are all present before God Thirdly That God can never want opportunity to do his work and carry
of the righteous judgment of God Q. 6. What is the Third Evidence of God's Iustice A. The Third Evidence of the Justice of God is in making good all the mercies he hath promised to believers exactly to a tittle 1 Iohn 1.19 If we confess our sins he is faithfull and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness 2 Tim. 4.8 Henceforth there is laid up for me a Crown of righteousness which the Lord the righteous judge will give me at that day Q. 7. What is the First inference from God's Iustice A. That sinners have no cause to complain of God's Judgments though they be never so terrible or durable Rom. 2.5 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thy self wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God Q. 8. What is the Second Inference from God's Iustice A. That without doubt there is a Judgment to come in the next Life otherwise God would not have the glory of his Justice Eccles. 3.16 17. I saw under the sun the place of judgment that wickedness was there and the place of righteousness that iâ—iquity was there I said in mine heart God shall judge the righteous and the wicked Q. 9. What is the Third Inference from God's Iustice A. That penitent and believing sinners need not doubt of the forgiveness of their sins 1 Iohn 1.9 If we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness Q. 10. What is the Last Inference from it A. The Last Inference is That meekness and patience under afflictions is our unquestionable Duty and murmuring against God is a great sin and evil Lam. 3.39 Wherefore doth a living man complain a man for the punishment of his sins Of Gâ—d's Goodness Quest. 1. WHAT is the Goodness of God A. It is an Essential Property of his Nature whereby he is absolutely and perfectly good in himself and the Fountain of all communicated Goodness to the Creature Psalm 119.68 Thou art good and dost good teach me thy Statutes Q 2. How doth the Goodness of God differ from the Mercy of God A. It differs in its Objects for Misery is the Object of Mercy but Goodness extends to the Creatures that are happy as well as miserable as the Angels Psal. 145.9 The Lord is good to all and his tender mercies are over all his works Q. 3. What is the First Property of God's Goodness A. That all his other Attributes flow out of it as their Fountain The other Acts of God are but the Effluxes of his Goodness Exod. 33.19 And he said I will make all my goodness pass before thee and I will proclaim the name of the Lord before thee and I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious and will shew mercy unto whom I will shew mercy Exod. 34.6 And the Lord passed by before him and proclaimed The Lord the Lord God merciful and gracious long-suffering and abundant in goodness and truth Q 4 What is the Second Property of the Divine Goodness A. That it is supream and perfect in it self so as the goodness of no Creature is or can be Luke 18.19 None is good save one and that is God And consequently above all additions from the Creature Psalm 16.2 O my soul thou hast said unto the Lord my goodness extendeth not unto thee Q. 5. What is the Third Property of God's Goodness A. That it is communicative with pleasure and delight to the Creature No Mother draws out her Breast to an hungry Child with more pleasure than God doth his Goodness to the Saints Psalm 145.9 The Lord is good to all and his tender mercies are over all his works Q. 6. In what Acts hath God first manifested his Goodness A. He hath manifested it in the creation and government of the World Psalm 104.24 O Lord how manifold are thy works in wisdom hast thou made them all Q 7. What was the principal Work in which God hath manifested his Goodness to men A. The principal manifestation of God's Goodness was in the Work of Redemption by Christ. Rom. 5.8 God commended his love towards us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us 1 John 4.8 9. In this was manifested the love of God towards us because that God sent his only begotten son into the world that we might live through him Q. 8. But are not the Iudgments of God on the wicked and his Afflictions on the Saints impeachments of his goodness A. No It is the property of Goodness to hate and punish Evil in the impenitent Exod 34.7 Keeping mercy for thousands forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin and that will by no means clear the guilty c. And the Afflictions of the Saints flow from his Goodness and end in their true and eternal good Heb 12.6 For whom the Lord loveth he chastneth and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth Psalm 119.71 It is good for me that I have been afflicted that I might learn thy Stà tutes Q. 9. What may we infer from the Goodness of God A. The first thing is that Sin hath made our Natures base and disingenuous in that we take no notice of his Goodness Isa. 1.3 The ox knoweth his owner and the ass his masters crib but Israel doth not know my people doth not consider And answer not the design of it Rom. 2.4 Not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance Q. 10. What is the Second Inference from the Goodness of God A. That therefore God is the fittest Object of our delight and love and of our trust and confidence 1. Of our Delight and Love Psalm 116.1 I love the Lord because he hath heard my voice and my supplication 2. Of our Trust and Confidence Psalm 34 8. O taste and see that the Lord is good blessed is the man that trusteth in him Q. 11. What is the Third Inference from God's Goodness A. That Christians should imitate God in his Goodness in charity to our Enemies Matt. 5.44 45. But I say unto you Love your enemies bless them that curse you do good to them that hate you pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you that ye may be the children of your father which is in heaven Q. 12. What is the Last Inference from God's Goodness A. That Christians have great encouragement to go to God for pardon in case of sin Psalm 130.4 But there is forgiveness with thee that thou mayest be feared and for refuge of dangers Nahum 1.7 The Lord is good a strong hold in the day of trouble he knoweth them that trust in him Of God's Truth Quest. 1. WHAT is the Truth of God A. It is an Essential Property of his Nature whereby he is perfectly faithful in himself and in all that he hath spoken Deut 32.4 He is the rock his work is perfect for all his ways are judgment a God of truth
and without iniquity just and right is he Psalm 119.142 Thy righteousness is an everlasting righteousness and thy Law is the truth Q 2. What is the first Property of Divine Truth A. The first Property of it is That it is essential and necessary to God He cannot lie Tit. 1.2 Q. 3. What is the Second Property of it A. The Second Property is That it is everlasting and abiding to all Generations Psalm 100.5 For the Lord is good his mercy is everlasting and his truth endureth to all generations Isa. 25.1 O Lord thou art my God I will exalt thee thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth Q. 4. What is the Third Property of Divine Truth A. The Third Property is that he is universally true in all his Words and Works 1. In all his Words Iohn 17.17 Thy word is truth 2. In all his Works Psalm 25.10 All the paths of the Lord are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant Q. 5. What-is the First Lesson from God's Truth to be learnt A. That truth and sincerity of heart is that which is most suitable and pleasing to God Psalm 51.6 Behold thou desirest truth in the inward parts Q. 6. What is tâ—e Second Lesson from God's Truth A. That whatever God hath foretold shall assuredly come to pass and be fulfilled in his time Iosh. 23.14 Not one thing hath failed of all the good things which the Lord our God spoke concerning you all are come to pass unto you and not one thing hath failed thereof Q. 7. What is the Third Lesson from the Truth of God A. That a Promise from God is full security to the Faith of his People and they may look upon it as good as a mercy in hand Heb. 10.23 For he is faithful that promised Q. 8. What is the Fourth Lesson from God's Truth A. That whatever God hath threatned in his Word against sinners shall surely come upon them except they repent Zech. 1.6 But my word and my statutes which I commanded my servants the prophets did they not take hold of your fathers and they returned and said Like as the Lord of hosts thought to do unto us according to our ways and according to our doings so hath he dealt with us Ezek. 12.27 28. The word which I have spoken shall be done saith the Lord God Q. 9. What is the Fifth Lesson from God's Truth A. That falshood in Words and Actions is contrary to God's Nature and abhorred by him Iohn 8.44 Ye are of your father the Devil and the lust of your father ye will do he was a murtherer from the beginning and abode not in the truth because there is no truth in him when he speaketh a lie he speaketh of his own for he is a liar and the father of it Q. 10. What is the Last Lesson from God's Truth A. The day of judgment will rightly and justly state every man's condition Rom. 2.2 But we are sure that the judgment of God is according to truth against them which commit such things Of One God Quest. 5. ARE there more Gods than one A. There is but one only the living and true God Q. 1. How doth it appear that there is but one God A. It is evident from Scripture there is but one God Deut. 6.4 Hear O Israel the Lord our God is one Lord. Jer. 10.10 But the Lord is the true God he is the living God and an everlasting King and as Scripture reveals no more so Reason will allow no more Q. 2. Why will Reason allow no more but one God A. Because God is the First Being Revel 1.11 Saying I am alpha and omega the first and the last and there can be but one First Being and God is the most perfect and excellent Being Psalm 71.19 Thy righteousness also O God is very high who hath done great things O God who is like unto thee And there can be but one most Perfect and Excellent Being Q. 3. But doth not the Scripture say in 1 Cor. 8.5 That there are Gods many and Lords many A. Yes there are many in Title and many in opinion but one only in Truth Jer. 10.10 But the Lord is the true God he is the living God and an everlasting King Q. 4. Why is he called the true God A. To distinguish him from the Idols and false Gods of the Heathens 1 Thes. 1.9 How ye turned to God from Idols to serve the living and true God Acts 14.15 We preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God which made heaven and earth and the sea and all things that are therein Q. 5. Why is he called the living God A. Because all life natural spiritual and eternal is in him and from him only First Natural Life Acts 17.28 For in him we live and move and have our being Secondly Spiritual Life Eph. 2.1 You hath he quickned who were dead in trespasses and sins Thirdly Eternal life in glory Col. 3.4 When Christ who is our life shall appear then shall ye also appear with him in glory Q. 6. What is the first Instruction from hence A. If but one God then all his Children should be of one heart having one and the same Father Eph. 4.5 6. One Lord one Faith one Baptism one God and Father of all who is above all and through all and in you all Q. 7. What is the second Inference from hence A. That it is Idolatry to perform worship to any other but God only Psalm 86.9 10. All nations whom thou hast made shall come and worship before thee O Lord and shall glorify thy name for thou art great and doest wondrous things thou art God alone Q. 8. What is the Third Inference from it A. That our supream love is due to God only and it 's very sinâ—ul to place it on any other Deut. 6.4 5. Hear O Israel the Lord our God is one Lord and thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul and with all thy might Q. 9. What is the Fourth Inference from God's Unity A. That God only must have the reliance and dependance of our Souls Ier. 17.5 7. Thus saith the Lord Cursed be the man that trusteth in man that maketh flesh his arm and whose heart departeth from the Lord. Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord and whose hope the Lord is Q. 10. VVhat is the last Inference from it A. That we have great cause to be thankful for the Gospel which discovers the only true God to us and that we are not as the Heathens worshipping many and false Gods 1 Cor. 8.5 6. For though there be that are called gods whether in heaven or in earth as there be Gods many and Lords many but to us there is but one God the father of whom are all things and we in him and one Lord Iesus Christ by whom are all things and we by him Of three Persons in the Godhead Quest.
Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings and not one of them is forgotten before God but even the very hairs of your head are all numbred Q 2 How else is Providence evidenced A. By Scripture Emblems as Iacob 's Ladder Gen. 28.12 13. Ana he dreamed and behold a ladder set upon the earth and the top of it reached to heaven behold the Angels of God ascended and descended on it And Ezekiel 's wheels Ezek 1.20 VVhithersoever the spirit was to go they went thither was their spirit to go and the wheels were lifted up over against them for the spirit of the liviâ—g creature was in the wheels Q. 3. VVhat further Scripture evidence is there A The sure accomplishment of Scripture Predictions as Israel 's Captivity and Deliverance from Egypt and Babylon Christ's Incarnation the Rise and Ruin of the Four Monarchies Dan. 2.31 Thou O King sawest and behold a great Image whose brightnest was excellent stood before thee and the form thereof was terrible Dan. 7.3 And four great beasts came up from the Sea diverse one from the other Q 4. VVhat is it's first Act about the Creatures A. It sustains preserves provides for them Psalm 145.15 16. The eyes of all wait upon thee and thou givest them their meat in due season thou openest thine hand and satisfiest the desire of every living thing and defendest them from danger Psalm 36. 6. Thy righteousness is like the great mountains thy judgments are a great deep O Lord thou preservest man and beast Q. 5. VVhat is the Second Act of Providence about the Creatures A. It rules and governs the Creatures and their Actions Psalm 66.7 He ruleth by his power for ever his eyes behold the nations let not the rebellions exalt themselves Q. 6. How manifold is Divine Providence A. It is common and general over all or special and peculiar to some men 1 Tim 4.10 VVho is the saviour of all men especially of those that believe Q. 7. How is Providence exercised about sinful Actions A. In permitting them Acts 4.16 In restraining them Psalm 76.10 Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee and the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain And over-ruling them to good Gen. 50.20 But as for you ye thought evil against me but God meant it unto good to bring to pass as it is this day to save much people alive Q. 8. VVhat are the Properties of Providence A. It is 1 holy Psalm 145.17 The Lord is righteous in all his ways and holy in all his works 2 Wise. Psalm 104.24 O Lord how manifold are thy works in wisdom hast thou made them all 3. Powerful Dan. 4.35 And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing and he doth according to his will in the army of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth and none can stay his hand or say unto him what dost thou Q. 9. VVhat is the First Instruction from it A. That God's people are safe amidst all their enemies and dangers 2 Chron. 16.9 For the eyes of the Lords run to and fro throughout the whole earth to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose hearts are perfect towards him Q. 10. VVhat is the Second Instruction A. That Prayer is the best expedient to prosperity and success of our lawful affairs Psalm 145.18 The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him to all that call upon him in truth Q. 11. VVhat is the Third Instruction from it A. That God's people should rest quietly in the care of his providence for them in all their straits Matt. 6.26 Behold the fowls of the air for they sow not neither do they reap nor gather into barns yet our heavenly father feedeth them are ye not much better than they Q. 12. VVhat is the last Instruction from it A. That it is no small priviledge to be adopted Children of God and the Members of Christ for all is ordered for their eternal Good Eph. 1.22 23. And hath put all things under his feet and gave him to be head over all things to the Church which is his body the fulness of him that filleth all in all Of the Covenant of Works Quest. 12. WHAT special Art of Providence did God exercise towards Man in the estate wherein he was created A. When God had created Man he entred into a Covenant of Life with him upon condition of perfect obedience forbidding him to eat of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil upon pain of Deaâ—h Q. 1. What was God's Covenant with Adam before the Fall A. It was to give Life and Happiness upon condition of perfect personal Obedience Gal. 3.12 The law is not of faith but the man that doth them shall live in them Q. 2. Was this Covenant made only with Adam or with him and his Posterity A. It was made with him and all his natural Posterity descending in the ordinary way of Generation from him Rom. 4.12 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 v. 14 and 18. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adams transgression who is the figure of him that was to come Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life Q. 3. Was Adam able to preform the obedience required of him in that Covenant A. Yes for he was made upright Eccles. 7.29 God made man upright but they have sought out themselves many inventions Q. 4. Had this Covenant any Mediator A. No he neither had nor needed any Mediator for satisfaction because no sin was in him nor intercession for he wanted nothing Q. 5. Did this Covenant admit of no repentance nor accept any short Endeavours A. No it did not but sentenceth and curseth the Transgressors of it for the least breach Gal. 3.10 Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them Q. 6. How was the threatning fulfilled of dying in the day he eat seeing he lived 930 years A. He died spiritually that day and though the sentence on his body was respited in order to posterity yet then his body received the death wound of which afterward he died Q. 7. What is the first Inference from Adam's Covenant A. Miserable are all they that grow on the natural root of the first Adam Gal. 4.21.22 Tell me ye that desire to be under the law Do ye not hear the law for it is wrrtten That Abraham had two sons the one by a Bond-maid the other by a Free-woman Q. 8. VVhat is the second Inference A. That God is just in all the punishments and miseries that came upon Man yea Infants that never sinned after his similitude Rom. 5.14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam
of a trumpet Q. 11. VVhat doth his ascension teach us A. Heavenly-mindedness Col. 3.1 2. If ye them be risen with Christ seek those things which are above where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God set your affections on things above and not oâ— things on the earth And an encouragement in our Christian race Heb. 12.1 2. VVherefore seeing we also are compasâ—ed about with so great a cloud of witnesses let us lay aside every â—eight and the sin which doth so easily beset us and let us run with â—atience the race that is set before us looking unto Iesus the auâ—hor and finisher of our faith VVho for the joy that was set before him endured the cross despising the shame and is sate down at the right hand of the Throne of God The Second Part of the 28th Question of Christ's Exaltation Quest. 1. WHat was the Third degree of Christ's Exaltation A. His sitting at God's right hand in Heaven Heb. 1.3 VVhen he had by himself purged our sins sate down on the right hand of the majesty on high Q. 2. VVhat doth God's right hand signify A. A State of Honour Heb. 1.13 But to which of the angels said he at any time Sit on my right hand until I make thine enemies thy footstool And Power Mat. 26.64 Hereafter shall ye see the son of man sitting on the right hand of power Q. 3. VVhat is implied in Christ's sitting there A. That his work on earth is finished Heb. 10.11 12. But this man after he had offered one sacrifice for sin for ever sate down on the right hand of God Q. 4. VVhat else doth it signify A. Christ's power over all enemies Psal. 110.2 The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Sion rule thou in the midst of thine enemies Q. 5. VVhat learn we from Christ's sitting there A. The high honour Believers are advanced to by Christ. Eph. 2.6 And hath raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Iesus Q. 6. VVhat is the last step of Christ's Exaltation A. His coming to Judgment Acts 10.42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be judge of quick and dead Q. 7. It is certain there shall be a Iudgment-day A. Yes the Scripture assures it 2 Cor. 5.10 For we must all appear before the judgment-seat of Christ. And every man's conscience witnesses to it Rom. 2.16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Iesus Christ according to my Gospel Q. 8. What is the first property of Christ's Iudgment A. It will be awful and solemn 1 Thes. 4.16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout with the voice of the Arch-angel and with the Trâ—mp of God and the dead in Christ shall rise first Q. 9. VVhat is the second Property of it A. It will be exact and critical Rom. 2.16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Iesus Christ according to my Gospel Mat. 12.36 But I say unto you That every idle word that men shall speak they shall give account thereof in the day of Iudgment Q. 10. What is the third Property of it A. It will be an universal Judgment Rev. 20.12 And I saw the dead small and great stand before God and the books were opened Q. 11. How is this a part of Christ's Exaltation A. He now acts in the fulness of his Kingly Power Mat. 25.34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand Come ye blessed of my father inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world And this will rowl away the reproach of his enemies Rev. 1.7 Behold he cometh with clouds and every eye shall see him and they also which pierced him Q. 12. What learn we from Christ's being Iudge A. That Believers shall not be cast in Judgment Rom. 8.1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them that are in Christ Iesus Q. 13. What learn we hence A. The deplorable State of Christless Persons Luke 19.27 But those mine enâ—mies that would not that I should reign over them bring hither and slay them before me Q. 14. What else learn we from Christ's Iudgment A To give all diligence to be found of him in peace 2 Pet. 3.14 Wherefore beloved seeing that ye lock for such things â—e diligent that ye may be sound of him in peace Of the Application of Christ. Quest. 29. HOW are we made partakers of the Redemption purchased by Christ A. We are made parâ—akers of the Redemption purchased by Chriâ—t by the effectual Application of it to us by his Holy Spirit Q. 1. What did our Redemption cost Christ A. It cost him his own Blood to obtain it Heb. 9.12 Neither by the blood of Goats and Calves but by his own blood he entred once into the holy place having obtained eternal redemption for us Q. 2. Can none have the benefit of it exceept it be applied to them A. No if Christ be not applied we cannot be saved Iohn 1.12 But as many as received him to them gave he power to become theâ— Sons of God even to them that believe on his name Q. 3 Whos 's work or office is it to apply Christ to us A. It 's the office and work of God's Spirit Tit. 3.45 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour towards man appeared not by works of righteousness which we have done but according to his mercy he saved us by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost Q. 4. Wâ—at Means doth the Spirit use in applying Christ A. The external means he makes use of is the Ministry of the Gospel 1 Cor. 3.5 Who then is Paul and who is Apollo but Ministers by whom ye believed Q. 5. Is this sâ—fficient of it self A. No the Blessing and Power of the Spirit must accompany it or Christ cannot be applied 1 Thes. 1.5 6. For our Gospel came not unto you in word only but also in power and in the Holy Ghost and in much assurance as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake And ye became followers of us and of the Lord having received the word in much affliction with joy of the Holy Ghost Q. 6. To whom doth the Spirit apply Christ A. To those that were given him of the Father before the world was Acts 13.48 And as many as were ordained to eternal life believed John 14.17 Even the spirit of truth whom the world cannot receive because it seeth him not neither knoweth him but ye know him for he dwelleth with you and shall be in you Q. 7. Is the Application of Christ to a Soul finisht at once A. Tho the first act of Faith unites the Soul to Christ yet it is a continued act 1 Pet. 2.4 To whom coming as unto a living stone Q. 8. What learn you from hence A. What a
say wherein have we despised thy name Q. 2. What is the first thing especially required in the third Commandment A. It requires the most aweful and reverential frame of our hearts in all our approaches to God Psal. 89.7 God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints and to he had in reverence of all them that are about him And in his Worship Ioh. 4.24 God is a spirit and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth Q. 3. What 's the second thing required in this Commandment A It requires truth in our witness-bearing as knowing God seeth our hearts and is witness to all that we think or speak Zech. 5.4 I will bring it forth saith the Lord of hosts and it shall enter into the house of the thief and into the house of him that sweareth â—alsly by my name c. Q. 4. What 's the third thing required in this Commandment A. That in all our Appeals to God in secret or doubtful matters we be sure that the Appeal be necessary aweful and true Ier 17.16 As for me I have not hastened from being a pastour to follow thee neither have I desired the woful day thou knowest that which came out of my lips was right before thee Psal. 139.23 24 Search me O God and know my heart try me and know my thoughts And set if there be any wicked way in me and lead me in the way everlasting Q. 5. What doth this Commandment especially forbid A. It forbids and condemns all profane Oaths as most injurious to the Name of God Matth. 5.34 37. Swear not at all neither by heaven for it is Goâ—s throne c. but let your communication be yea yea nay nay for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil Q. 6. VVhat is the danger of profane or false Swearing A. Such are reckoned Enemies to God Psal. 139.20 Thine enemies take thy name in vain The Curse of God enters into such Families Zech. 5.4 I will bring it forth saith the Lord of hosts and it shall enter into the hoâ—se of the thief and into the house of him that sweareth falsly by my name c. And the Lord will not hold them guiltless Q. 7. VVhat else is forbidden in this Commandment A. It forbids and condemns all heedless wandering and drowsie performance of Gods Worship Isa. 29.13 14. VVherefore the Lord said forasmuch as this people drew near me with their mouth and with their lips do honour me bâ—t have removed their heart far from me and their fear towards me is taught by the precept of men Therefore behold I will proceed to do a marvellous work amongst this people even a marvellous work and a wonder for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid And 2 Kings 10.31 But Iehu took no heed to walk in the law of the Lord God of Israel with all his heart for he departed not from the sins of Ieroboam which made Israel to sin Q. 8. What other sin is forbidden in this Command A. It forbids all light and irreverent use of the Scriptures especially in our jests or by way of scoffing Ier. 17.15 Behold they say unto me where is the word of the Lord let it come nowe Jer. 6.10 Behold the word of the Lord is unto them a reproach they have no delight in it Q. 9. By what Argument doth God enforce the third Commandment on men A. That the breakers of this Command shall surely be punished by the Lord either in this life Deut. 28.58 59. If thou wilt not observe to do all the words of this law that are written in this book that thou mayest fear this glorious and fearful name The Lord thy God Then the Lord will make thy plagues wonderful and the plagues of thy seed even great plagues and of long continuance and sore sickness and of long continuance Or in that to come Rom. 2.5 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thy self wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God Except they repent and reform Q. 10. What 's the first Instruction from the third Commandment A. That great and infinite is the Patience of God in forbearing provoking Sinners so long as he doth Romans 9.22 VVhat if God willing to shew his wrath and to make his power known endured with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction Q. 11. VVhat 's the second Instruction from hence A. That God is to be justified in the severest of his Judgments by which at any time he manifests his displeasure against the profaneness of the World Hos. 4.1 2 3. Hear the word of the Lord ye children of Israel for the Lord hath a controversie with the inhabitants of the land because there is no truth nor mercy nor knowledge of God in the land By swearing and lying and killing and stealing and committing adultery they break out and bloud toucheth bloud Therefore shall the land â—ourn and every one that dwelleth therein shall languish with the beasts of the field and with the fowls of heaven yea the fishes of the sea also shall be taken away Q. 12. What 's the third Instruction from hence A. That God takes special notice of and greatly delighteth in them that fear and reverence his Name Isa. 66.5 Hear the word of the Lord ye that tremble at his word Your brethren that hated you that cast you out for my names sake said let the Lord be glorified but he shall appeaâ— to your joy and they shall be ashamed Mal. 3.16 And a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord and that thought upon his name Q. 13. What 's the last Inference from hence A. That those Parents have much to answer for that by their Examples teach or by their Negligence encourage their Children to profane Gods Name Ier. 5 7. How shall I pardon thee for this Thy children have forsaken me and sworn by them that are no Gods c. Of the Sabbath Quest. 57. WHich is the fourth Commandment A. The fourth Commandment is Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy Six days shalt thou labour and do all thy work but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God in it thou shalt not do any work thou nor thy Son nor thy Daughter thy Man-servant nor thy Maid-servant nor thy Cattle nor thy Stranger which is within thy Gates For in six dayes the Lord made Heaven and Earth the Sea and all that in them is and rested the seventh day wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it Quest. 58. What is required in the fourth Commandment A. The fourth Commandment requireth the keeping holy to God such set time as he hath appointed in his Word expresly one whole day in seven to be an holy Sabbath unto the Lord. Quest. 59. Which day of the seven hath God
appointed to be the weekly Sabbath A. From the beginning of the World to the Resurrection of Christ God hath appointed the seventh day of the week to be the weekly Sabbath and the first day of the week ever since to continue to the end of the World which is the Christian Sabbath Q. 1. What special marks of honour hath God set upon this fourth Commandment A. God hath set four peculiar marks of honour on it 1. It is the largest of all the Commands 2. It hath a solemn Memento prefixed to it 3. It is delivered both positively and negatively which the rest are not And 4. It is enforced with more Arguments to strengthen the Command on us than any other Q. 2. Wâ—y will God have a Sabbath observed on Earth A. God will have a Sabbath on Earth to give us therein an Emblem of that Eternal Sabbath in Heaven wherein his people shall be serving him and praising him without interruption or mixture of any other business throughout Eternity Hâ—b 4.9 There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God Q 3. For what other Reasons will God have a Sabbath A. He will have a Sabbath for the honour of his name Isa. 58.13 If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath from doing thy pâ—easure on my holy day and call the sabbath a delight the holy of the Lord honourable and shalt honour him not doing thine own ways nor finding thine own pleasure nor speaking thine own words For the good of Mens Souls Mark 2.27 And he said unto them the sabbath was made for man not man for the sabbath And in mercy to the Bodies of Men and Beasts Q. 4. Is this Commandment Moral and Perpetual or Ceremonial and Temporary A. It is and must needs be Moral and not Ceremonial because all the Reasons that enforce it are perpetual and the Sabbath continued when the Ceremonial Law ceased and was vanished Matth. 24.20 But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter neither on the sabbath day Q. 5. What day of the seven is the Christian Sabbath A. The first day of the Week is our Sabbath since the Resurrection of Christ. This is the day which was foretold to be our Sabbath Psal. 118.24 This is the day which the Lord hath made we will rejoyce and be glad in it The Lord hath marked it for himself by setting his own Name on it Rev. 1.10 I was in the Spirit on the Lords day And the Apostles and Primitive Church constantly set it apart to Religious uses and ends Acts 20.7 And upon the first day of the week when the disciples came together to break bread Paul preached unto them c. 1 Cor. 16.2 Vpon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store as God hath prospered him that there be no gatherings when I come Q. 6. When doth the Christian Sabbath begin A. It appears that this day is not to be reckoned from evening to evening but from morning to morning because the Christian Sabbath must begin when the Jewish Sabbath ended but that ended towards the morning Matth. 28.1 In the end of the sabbath as it began to dawn towards the first day of the week came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre Q. 7. What is the ground of changing the day A. The solemn commemoration of our Redemption by the Resurrection of Christ from the dead is the ground of translating the Sabbath from the seventh to the first day of the Week Psal. 118.24 This is the day which the Lord hath made we will rejoyce and be glad in it Mark 16.9 Now when Iesus was risen early the first day of the week he appeared first to Mary Magdalene out of whom he had cast seven devils Q. 8. Is it the whole day or only some hours of the day that are set apart for God A. Not a part but the whole day is the Lords and it is as dangerous to halve it with God in point of time as it was for Annanias and Sapphira to halve their dedicated Goods and bring in but a part Remember that thou keep holy the sabbath day is the Command Q. 9. Is there any other day holy besides this A. No day but this is holy by Institution of the Lord yet dayes of Humiliation and Thanksgiving may be lawfully set apart by men on a Call of Providence but Popish Holy-dayes are not warrantable nor to be observed Gal. 4.10 Ye observe dayes and months and times and years Q. 10. But seeing every day should be a Sabbath to a Christian what needs any other set time A. Though Christians must walk every day with God yet every day cannot be a Sabbath because God calls us to other Duties on those dayes but will have this to be a solemn and entire day to himself Q. 11. But if a man scruple the change of the Sabbath may he not keep both dayes weekly A. No for then by doing more than God requires he breaks a plain Command Six days shalt thou labour Q. 12. At what time should Christians be up and at their Duties on the Lords day A. As early in the morning as their strength will permit to prepare by private for publick Duties yet the publick are not to be entrenched on by private Duties Acts 10.33 Now therefore are we all here present before God to hear all things that are commanded thee of God Of the Sabbath Quest. 60. HOw is the Sabbath to be Sanctified A. The Sabbath is to be Sanctified by an holy reâ—ting all that day even from such worldly employments and recreations as are lawful on other days and spending the whole time in the publick and private exercises of Gods Worship except so much as is to be taken up in the works of necessity and mercy Quest. 61. What are the Sins forbidden in the fourth Commandment A. The fourth Commandment forbiddeth the omission or careless performance of the Duties required and the profaning the day by Idleness or doing that which is in it self sinful or by unnecessary thoughts words or works about our worldly employments or recreations Quest. 62. What are the Reasons annexed to the fourth Commandment A. The Reasons annexed to the fourth Commandment are Gods allowing us six days of the week for our own employment his challenging a special propriety in the seventh his own example and his blessing the Sabbath day Q. 1. VVhat is the Rest which God requires on the Sabbath A. It is not a meer natural or civil but an holy rest resembling the rest in Heaven wherein the Mind is most active and busie in the work of God though the Body be at rest and the Spirit not wearied with its work Rev. 4.8 And the four beaâ—â—s had each of them six wings about him and they were full of eyes within and they rest not day and night saying holy holy holy Lord God Almighty which was and is and is to come Q. 2. May
not any works of our civil Calling be ordinarily done on that day A. No it is sinful to put our hands ordinarily to our Callings on that day and God usually punishes it Neh. 13.15 16 17 18. In those dayes saw I in Iudah some treading wine-presses on the sabbath and bringing in sheaves and lading asses as also wine grapes and figs and all manner of burdens which they brought into Ierusalem on the sabbath day and I testified against them in the day wherein they sold victuals There dwelt men of Tyre also therein which brought fish and all manner of ware and sold on the sabbath unto the children of Iudah and in Ierusalem Then I contended with the nobles of Iudah and said unto them What evil thing is this that ye do and profane the sabbath day Did not your fathers thus and did not our God bring all this evil upon us and upon this city yet ye bring more wrath upon Israel by profaning the sabbath Q. 3. May we not refresh our Bodies by Recreations or our Minds by thoughts of Earthly Business or Discourses on that day A. Recreations of the Body which are lawful on other days are sinful on this day and all the Recreations of the Mind allowed on this day are Spiritual and Heavenly Isa. 58.13 14. If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath from doing thy pleasure on my holy day and call the sabbath a delight the holy of the Lord honourable and shalt honour him not doing thine own ways nor finding thine own pleasure nor speaking thine own words Then shalt thou delight thy self in the Lord and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth and feed thee with the heritage of Iacob thy father for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it Q. 4. What works may lawfully be done on that day A. Christs example warrants works of necessity and works of mercy but no other Matth. 12.3 4. But he said unto them have ye not read what David did when he was an hungred and they that were with him How he entered into the house of God and did eat the shew-bread which was not lawful for him to eat neither for them which were with him but only for the priests And ver 7. But if ye had known what this meaneth I will have mercy and not sacrifice c. Q. 5. What are the holy Duties of the Sabbath A. The publick Worship of God in reading and hearing the Word preached Isa. 66.23 And it shall come to pass that from one new moon to another and from one sabbath to another shall all flesh come to worship before me saith the Lord. Luke 4.16 And as his custom was he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day and stood up for to read And Prayer Acts 16.13 14. And on the sabbath day we went out of the city by a river side where prayer was wont to be made c. And receiving the Sacrament Acts 20.7 And upon the first day of the week when the disciples came together to break bread Paul preached unto them c. Q. 6. At private Duties in our Families required as well as publick on the Sabbath A. Yes it is not enough to sanctifie the Sabbath in publick Ordinances but God requires it to be sanctified in Family and private Duties Lev. 23.3 But the seventh day is the sabbath of rest an holy convocation ye shall do no work therein it is the sabbath of the Lord in all your dwellings Q. 7. With what frame of Spirit are all Sabbath duties both publick and private to be performed A. They are to be performed with Spiritual delight Isa. 58.13 If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath from doing thy pleasure on my holy day and call the sabbath a delight c. And all grudging at and weariness of Spiritual exercises is a sin forbidden Mal. 1.13 Ye said also behold what a weariness is it and ye have snuffed at it saith the Lord of hosts and ye brought that which was torn and the lame and the sick thus ye brought an offering should I accept this of your hand saith the Lord Amos 8.5 When will the new moon be gone that we may sell corn and the sabbath that we may set foâ—th wheat c. Q. 8. What is the first Reason annexed to this Command A. The first Reason is the sufficient and large allowance of time God hath given us for our civil Callings and earthly business Six days in the week is a large allowance Q. 9. What is the second Reason annexed to this fourth Command A. The second Reason is Gods sanctifying and separating this day by a special Command and Institution for his service so that to profane this time is to sin against an express Divine Statute Q. 10. What 's the third Reason annexed to this Command A. The third Reason is Gods own Example who rested the seventh day from all his works and blessed this day by vertue of which Blessing we are encouraged to sanctifie it Q. 11. Is it not enough to sanctifie this day in our own persons A. No if God hath put any under our Authority their profaning the Sabbath will become our sin though we be never so strict in the observation of it our selves Q. 12. May we continue our civil Employments to the last moment of our common time A. Except Necessity or Mercy urge us we ought to break off before and allow some time to prepare for the Sabbath Luke 23.54 And that day was the preparation and the sabbath drew on Q. 13. What is the first Inference fâ—om hence A. That we have all great cause to be humbled for our Sabbath transgressions either in our unpreparedness for it our want of delight and spirituality in it or the due government of our Families as God requires Q. 14. What is the second Inference from hence A. That Christians on the Sabbath day have a fair occasion and help to realâ—ize to themselves the Heavenly state in which they are to live abstract from the World and God is to be all in all to them Of the fifth Commandment Quest. 63. WHich is the fifth Commandment A. The fifth Commandment is Honour thy Father and thy Mother that thy days may be long in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee Quest. 64. What is required in the fifth Commandment A. The fifth Commandment requireth the preserving the Honour and performing the Duties belonging to every one in their several places and relations as superiors inferiors or equals Quest. 65. What is forbidden in the fifth Commandment A. The fifth Commandment forbiddeth the neglecting of or doing any thing against the honour and duty which belongeth to every one in their several places and relations Quest. 66. What is the Reason annexed to the fifth Commandment A. The Reason annexed to the fifth Commandment is a promise of long life and prosperity as far as it shall serve for Gods glory and their own
good to all such as keep this Commandment Q 1. What Relatives are directly and more especially concerned in this fiâ—th Commandment A. All Superiours and Inferiours are concerned in it Especially 1. Political Fathers and their Children that is Kings and Subjects Mark 11.10 Blessed be the kingdom of our father David c. 2. Spiritual Fathers and their Children that is Ministers and their People 1 Cor. 4 15. For though you have ten thousand instrâ—cters in Christ yet have ye not many fathers for in Christ Iesus I have begotten you through the gospel 3. Natural Parents and their Children Ephes. 6.1 Children obey your parents in the Lord. 4. All Civil Superiours and Inferiours as Husbands and Wives Masters and Servants Ephes. 5.22 Wives submit your selves unto your own husbands as unto the Lord. And Ephes. 6.5 Servants be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh c. Q. 2. What is the Duty of Political Fathers or Magistrates to their Political Children or Subjects A. It is to rule and govern the people over whom God hath set them with Wisdom 2 Chron. 1.10 Give me now wisdom and knowledge that I may go out and come in before this people Justice 2 Chron. 19.5.6 7. And â—e sit judges in the land throughout all the fenced cities of Iudah city by city And he said to the judges Take heed what ye do for ye judge not for man but for the Lord who is with you in the judgment Wherefore now let the fear of the Lord be upon you take heed and do it c. And Piety 2 Sam. 23.3 He that ruleth over men must be just ruling in the fear of God Carefully providing for their Souls in every place of their dominion 2 Chron. 17.9 And they taught in Iudah and had the book of the law of the Lord with them and went about throughout all the cities of Iudah and taught the people And for their common outward peace and safety 2 Chron. 17.12 And Iehoshaphat waxed great exceedingly and â—e built in Iudah castles and cities of store Q. 3. What are the Duties of Subjects to their Rulers A. It is to pray for them 1 Tim. 2.1 2. I exhort therefore that first of all supplications prayers intercessions and giving of thanks be made for all men For kings and for all that are in authority c. To honour them 1 Pet. 2.17 Fear God honour the King To obey their just Laws Rom. 13.1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers c. And to pay them the Tribute that is due to them Rom. 13.7 Render therefore to all their dâ—es tribute to whom tribute is due custom to whom custom c. Q. 4. What are the Duties of Ministers to their people A. Their Duty is 1. To feed their flock constantly with wholesome food 2 Tim. 4.2 Preach the word be instant in season and out of season rebuke reprove exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine 2. To be full of bowels of tender Affection to them 1 Thess. 2.7 8. But we were gentle among you even as a nurse cheriâ—heth her children So being affectionately desirous of you we were willing to have imparted unto you not the Gospel of God only but also our own souls because ye were dear unto us 3. To pray for them Eph. 1.15 16. Wherefore I also after I heard of your faith in the Lord Iesus and love unto all the saints Cease not to give thanks for you making mention of you in my prayers 4. To watch over them 1 Pet. 5.2 Feed the flock of God which is among you taking the oversight thereof not by constraint but willingly c. And 5. To walk as an Example of Godliness before them Tit. 2.7 In all things shewing thy self a pattern of good works c. All which Duties require their residence among them 1 Pet. 5.2 Feed the flock of God which is among you c. Q. 5. What are the peoples Duties towards their Ministers A. Their Duty is 1. To esteem and love them dearly for their works sake 1 Thess. 5.12 13. And we beseech you Brethren to know them which labour among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you and to esteem them very highly in love for their works sake 2. To attend on the Word preached by them as the Word of God 1 Thess. 2.13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing because when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us ye received it not as the word of men but as it is in truth the word of God 3. To pray for them and the success of their labours Heb. 13.18 Pray for us c. 4. Not to receive light and malicious reports against them 1 Tim. 5.19 Against an elder receive not an accusation but before two or three witnesses 5. To make a competent and comfortable provision for them Gal. 6.6 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things Q. 6. What are the Duties of Natural Parents to their Children A. It is their Duty 1. To be tenderly but not fondly affectionate to and tender over them Isa. 49.15 Can a woman forget her sucking child that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb 2 To educate them for God Ephes. 6.4 And ye fathers provoke not your chiâ—dren to wrath but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. 3 To restrain their Sins by Correction Prov. 29.15 The rod and reproof give wisdom but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame 4. To provide for their livelyhood 1 Tim. 5.8 But if any provide not for his own and especially for those of his own house he hath denied the faith and is worse than an infidel 5. To pray dayly for them Iob 1.5 And it was so when the days of their feasting were gone about that Iob sent and sanctified them and rose up early in the morning and offered burnt-offerings according to the number of them all For Iob said it may be that my sons have sinned and cursed God in their hearts Thus did Job continually 6. To encourage them with endearing language in the way of Godliness Prov. 31.1 2 3. The words of King Lemuel the prophesie that his mother taught him What my son and what the son of my womb and what the son of my vows Give not thy strength unto women nor thy wayes to that which destroyeth kings Q. 7. What are the Duties of Children to Parents A. Their Duty is 1. To obey them only in the Lord Eph. 6.1 Children obey your parents in the Lord. 2 To reverence and honour them Levit. 19.3 Ye shall fear every man his mother and his father c. 3. To submit to their Reproofs and Corrections Hebr. 12.9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our â—flesh which corrected us and we gave them reverence 4. To provide for them if they be poor and needy and we have
of my mind c. And though they are said not to sin 1 Iohn 3.9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin c. that is not to be taken absolutely but comparatively as they once did and others still do Q. 7. But did not Christ command the young man to keep the Law A. 'T is true that Christ did put the young man upon this task Matth. 19.17 If thou wilt enter into life keep the commandments But it was not on a supposition that he was able to do it but to convince him of the impossibility of Justification that way Q. 8. But doth not the Apostle say that the righteousness of the laâ—â— is fulfilled in Believers A. 'T is true that the Apostle doth say so Rom. 8.4 but the meaning is not that we fulfil it in our own persons by our compleat obedience to it but it is fulfilled in us by our union with Christ who perfectly kept it and that Righteousness of the Law which is in Christ becomes ours by Gods imputation of it to us Rom. 4.23 24. Now it was not written for his sake alone that it was imputed to him But for us also to whom it shall be imputed if we believe on him that raised up Iesus our Lord from the dead Q 9. What is the first Inference from hence A. That Justification by our own Works is utterly impossible to the holiest of Men Gal. 2.16 For by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified Psal. 130.3 If thou Lord shouldst mark iniquities O Lord who shall stand Q. 10. What 's the second Inference from hence A. Hence we learn what an infinite Mercy it is that God sent Jesus Christ made under the Law Gal. 4.4 5. But when the fulness of time was come God sent forth his son made of a woman made under the law c. To do that for us we could never do for our selves Rom. 8.3 4. For what the law could not do in that it was weak thâ—ough the flesh God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin condemned sin in the flesh That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us who walk not after the flesh but after the spirit Q. 11. What 's the third Inference from hence A. That the dreadful Curse must needs lye on all Unbelievers that are out of Christ Iohn 3.36 He that believeth not the Son shall not see life but the wrath of God abideth on him And seek their Justification by the deeds of the Law Gal. 3.10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse c. Q. 12. What 's the fourth Inference from hence A. What a deluge of sin and misery brake in upon the whole World by the fall of Adam and all his Posterity being by him plunged under both Rom. 5.12 Wherefore as by one man siâ— entered into the world and death by sin and so death passed upon all men for that all have sinned Q. 13. What 's the fifth Inference from hence A. That the Popish Doctrines of Merits and Works of Supererogation are false and groundless Doctrines springing out of the ignorance aud pride of mans heart Q. 14. What 's the last Inference from hence A. That all Gods people should sigh under their unhappy necessity of sinning Rom. 7.24 O wretched man that I am who shall deliver me from the body of this death And long to be with Christ in the perfect state Hebr. 12.23 And to the spirits of just men made perfect Of the inequality of Sin Quest. 83. ARe all Transgressions of the Law equally hainous A. Some Sins in themselves and by reason of several Aggravations are more hainous in the sight of God than others Q. 1 Whence ariseth the first difference of sin A. The first difference betwixt one sin and another ariseth from the immediate object against which the sin is committed on this account sins immediately committed against God are more heinous than sins committed immediately against Man 1 Sam. 2.25 If one man sin against another the Iudge shall judge him but if a man sin against the Lord who shall intreat for him And all sins of the First Table are greater than those of the Second yet there are crying sins against the Second Q. 2. What 's the first sin noted for an heinous sin A. The sin of Murder is in Scripture set down for an heinous and crying sin in its own nature Gen. 4.10 The voice of thy brothers blood cryeth unto me from the earth Q. 3. What other sin is noted for a crying sin A. The sin of Oppression is noted in Scripture for a crying sin Hab. 2.11 For the stone shall cry out of the wall and the oâ—am out of the timber shall answer it Especially the oppression of the Widow and Fatherless Exod. 22.22 23. Ye shall not afflict any widow or fatherless child If thou afflict them in any wise and they cry at all unto me I will surely hear their cry Q. 4. What is reckoned in Scripture an heinous sin against the First Table A. The sin of Atheism or denying the Being of God is a sin of the first magnitude Iob 31.28 This also were an iniquity to be punished by the Iudge for I should have denyed the God that is above This was the sin of Pharaoh Exod. 5.2 And Pharaoh said who is the Lord that I should obey his voice to let Israel go I know not the Lord neither will I let Israel go Q. 5. What other sin is heinous in Gods account A. The sin of Idolatry is a most heinous sin and goes nearer to the heart of God than other sins do Ezek. 6.9 And they that escape of you shall remember me among the nations whither they shall be carried captives because I am broken with their whâ—rish heart which hath departed from me and with their eyes which go a whoring after their idols and they shall loath themselves for the evils which they have committed in all their abominations Jer. 44.4 Oh do not this abominable thing that I hate Q. 6. What 's the most heinous of all the sins in the world A. The sin against the Holy Ghost is the most heinous of all other sins and shall never be forgiven by Him Matth. 12.31 All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men Q. 7. From whence doth this Scripture aggravate sin A The Spirit of God in Scripture aggravates and estimates sin from the degree of light and knowledge Men sin against Luke 12.47 And that servant which knew his Lords will and prepared not himself neither did according to his will shall be beaten with many stripes John 15.22 If I had not come and spoken unto them they had not had sin but now they have no cloak for their sin Q. 8. What 's the second thing that aggravates sin A. The more Mercies any man
sins against the greater is his sin Rom. 2.4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and long-suffering not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance And especially when 't is against Spiritual Mercies and Means of Salvation Heb. 2.3 How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation c. Q. 9. Are heinous and crying sins capable of forgiveness A. Yes great and heinous sins are capable of forgiveness upon true Repentance Isa. 1.18 Tho' your sins be as scarlet they shall be as white as snow though they be red like crimson they shall be as wooll Q. 10. From what fountains doth the pardon of all sins both great and small flow A. They all flow from the Free Grace of God Luk. 7.41 42. And when they had nothing to pay he frankly forgave them both And through the Meritorious satisfying Blood of Christ Eph. 1.7 In whom we have redemption through his blood the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of his grace Q. 11. What 's the first Inference hence A. Though some sins are more heinous than others yet no Sinner should absolutely despair of Mercy for the vilest have been pardoned 1 Cor. 6.11 And such were some of you but ye are washed but ye are sanctified but ye are justified c. Q. 12. What 's the second inference hence A. That there are different degrees of torments in Hell proportioned to the different degrees of sins on earth Matth. 11.21 22. Wo unto thee Chorazin wo unto thee Bethsaida for if the mighty works which were done in you had been done in Tyre and Sidon they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes But I say unto you it shall be more tollerable for Tyre and Sidon at the day of judgment than for you Q. 13. What 's the third Inference hence A. That great Sinners when pardoned and received to Mercy should excel all others in love to Christ Luke 7.42 43. Which of them will love him most Simon answered and said I suppose that he to whom he forgave most And he said unto him thou hast rightly judged Q. 14. What 's the last Inference hence A. Let no Man neglect Christ because his Sins are not so heinous as others because the least Sin without Christ is damning Rom. 6.23 For the wages of sin is death c. And greater Sinners are often called when lesser are not Matth. 21.31 32. The publicans and harlots go into the kingdom of God before you Of the demerit of Sin Quest. 84. WHat doth every Sin deserve A. Every Sin deserveth Gods Wrath and Curse both in this Life and that which is to come Q. 1. Wherein doth the evil of Sin principalâ—y consist A. It consists principally in the offence it gives and the wrong it doth to God Psal. 51.4 Against thee thee only have I sinned and done this evil in thy sight Q. 2. What 's the first offence and wrong Sin doth to God A. It consists in its enmity to God Rom. 8.7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God c. Exprest in Scripture by walking contrary to him Levit. 26.40 They have also walked contrary to me Fighting against God Acts 5.39 Lest haply ye be even found to fight against God And resisting his Spirit Acts 7.51 Ye do alwayes resist the Holy Ghost Q. 3. Wherein is its enmity to God â—urther discovered in Scripture A. It 's discovered under the names and notions of hatred of God Rom. 1.30 Back-biters haters of God c. Rebellion against God 1 Sam. 15.23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft c. And despising the Commandment of God 2 Sam. 12.9 Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the Lord Q. 4. What are the Attributes of God that Sin wrongs A. It wrongs all his Attributes for it slights his Sovereignty Exod. 5.2 And Pharaoh said who is the Lord that I should obey his voice to let Israel go Resists his Power 1 Cor. 10.22 Are we stranger than be Despiseth his Goodness Rom. 2.4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness c. Taxeth his Iustice Ezek. 18.25 Yet ye say the way of the Lord is not equal c. And clouds his Holiness Jam. 2.7 Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called Q. 5. What doth Sin deserve in the course of Iustice from God A. It deserves all temporal and eternal effects of Gods Wrath on the Souls and Bodies of Sinners all which in Scripture go under the name of Death Rom. 6.23 For the wages of sin is death c. Q. 6. Can these sufferings satisfie God for all this wrong A. No they cannot and therefore they must and shall be eternal on the damned Matth. 5.26 Verily I say unto thee Thou shalt by no means come out thence till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing Mark 9.44 Where their worm dyeth not and the fire is not quenched Q. 7. Shall all Sinners hear the desert of their Sins A No all that are out of Christ shall but Christ hath freed Believers from it Iohn 3.18 He that believeth on him is not condemned c. Q. 8. But is it not hard that Sinners should suffer eternally for the sins of a few years A. No it is not for the evil of Sin is not to be measured by the time in which but by the object against which it is committed Psal. 51.4 5. Against thee thee only have I sinned and done this evil in thy sight c. Q. 9. What learn we from hence A. Hence in the first place we learn the impossibility of satisfying Gods Justice for the least Sin that ever we committed Iob 7.20 I have sinned what shall I do unto thee c. Psal. 130.3 If thou Lord shouldst mark iniquity O Lord who shall stand Q. 10. What 's the second Instruction hence A. Hence we see the necessity of a Mediatour betwixt God and us Psal. 40.6 7. Sacrifice and offering thou didst not desire c. Then said I lo I come in the volume of the book it is written of me Q. 11. What 's the third Instruction hence A. That the greatest suffering is rather to be chosen than the least sin Heb. 11.25 Chusing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season Q. 12. What 's the fourth Instruction hence A. It teacheth us what an invaluable Mercy the full free and fiâ—al remission of Sin is Psal. 32.1 2. Blessed is he whose wickedness is forgiven and whose sin is covered c. Q. 13. What 's the fifth Instruction hence A. It vindicates God in his severest strokes on Sinners Hos. 6.5 Therefore have I hewed them by the prophets I have slain them by the words of my mouth and thy judgments are as the light that goeth forth Q. 14. What 's the last Instruction A. Hence we learn the infinite nature of Christs sufferings Rom. 8.32 He that spared not his own son but
A. And so do many baptized at Age too Duties are not to be measured by events What is the Lords Supper Quest. 96. WHat is the Lords Supper A. The Lords Supper is a Sacrament wherein by giving and receiving Bread and Wine according to Christs appointment his Death is shewed forth and the worthy receivers are not after a corporal and carnal manner but by Faith made partakers of his Body and Blood with all his benefits to their spiritual nourishment and growth in Grace Q. 1. By whose authority is the Lords Supper instituted and appointed A. By the soveraign authority of Christ the King of the Church and not by the pleasure of man 1 Cor. 11.23 For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you that the Lord Iesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread Q. 2. Of what parts doth this Sacrament consist A. It consists of two parts one earthly and visible to wit Bread and Wine the other spiritual and invisible the Body and Blood of Christ 1 Cor. 10.16 The cup of blessing which we bless is it not the communion of the blood of Christ the bread which we break is it not the communion of the body of Christ Q. 3. How do these earthly and heavenly things become a Sacrament A. By the word of institution and blessing coming from Christ upon them 1 Cor. 11.23 24 25. For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you that the Lord Iesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread And when he had given thanks he brake it and said Take eat this is my body which is broken for you this do in remembrance of me After the same manner also he took the cup when he had supped saying This cup is the new testament in my blood this do as oft as ye drink it in remembrance of me Q. 4. When did Christ ordain and institute this Sacrament A. He instituted it in the same night he was betrayed 1 Cor. 11.23 The Lord Iesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread It could not be sooner because the Passover must be first celebrated and by the institution of this abrogated Nor later for soon after he was apprehended Q. 5. What doth the time of its institution teach us A. It teacheth us how great Christs care and love to his people is that he makes in his Ordinance such provision for our comfort though he knew his own bitter agony was just at hand Q. 6. What is the general use and end of this Sacrament A. It is to confirm seal and ratifie the New Covenant to Believers 1 Cor. 11.35 This cup is the new testament in my blood this do ye as oft as ye drink it in remembrance of me Q. 7. What are the particular ends and uses of it A. The first particular end and use of it is to bring Christ and his Sufferings afresh to our remembrance 1 Cor. 11.24 25. This do in remembrance of me Q. 8. What kind of remembrance of Christ is here intended A. Not a meer speculative but an affectionate heart-melting remembrance of him like that of Peter Matth. 26.75 And Peter remembred the words of Iesus which said unto him before the cock shall crow thou shalt deny me thrice And he went out and wept bitterly Or of Ioseph Gen. 43.29 30. And Ioseph made haste for his bowels did yern upon his brother and he sought where to weep and he entred into his chamber and wept there Q. 9. What doth this end of the Sacrament imply A. It implyes this that the best of Gods people are too apt to forget Christ and what he hath endured and suffered for them Q. 10. What else doth it imply A. It implies this that none but those that have the saving knowledge of Christ and have had former acquaintance with Christ are fit for this Ordinance for no man can remember what he never knew 1 Cor. 11.28 But let a man examine himself and so let him eat of that bread and drink of that cup. Q. 11. What 's the second particular use and end of this Sacrament A. It is to represent Christ to Believers as an apt sign of him and of his Death and that both memorative significative and instructive Q. 12. How is it a memorative sign of Christ A. It brings Christ to our remembrance as his Death and bitter Sufferings are therein represented to us by the breaking of Bread and pouring forth of Wine 1 Cor. 11.26 For as often as ye eat this bread and drink this cup ye do shew forth the Lords death till he come Q. 13. How is it a significative Ordinance A. It is a significative Ordinance not only as it represents Christs sufferings but the Believers union with him as the head and with each other as members of his body 1 Cor. 10.61 17. The cup of blessing which we bless is it not the communion of the blood of 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 c. Q. 14. In what respect is it an instructive sign A. It is an instructive sign in divers respects namely First As it teaches us that Christ is the only nutritive bread by which our Souls live Iohn 6.51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven If any man eat of this bread he shall live for ever and the bread that I shall give is my flesh which I shall give for the life of the world And Secondly As it instructs us that the New Testament is now in its full force by the death of Christ the Testator Heb. 9.16 17. For where a testament is there must also of necessity be the death of the testator For a testament is of force after men are dead otherwise it is of no force at all whilst the testator liveth Thus much of the Author Nature and Ends of the Lords Supper Of the Elements Actions and Subjects of it Q. 1. ARe not Bread and Wine too small and common things to represent the body and blood of Christ A. Though a bit of Bread and a draught of Wine be things of small value in themselves yet they are great in respect of their use and end A penny-worth of Wax is a small thing in its self but being applyed to the Label of a Deed may be advanced to the worth of thousands of pounds as it receives the seal to a great inheritance Q. 2. Is not the bread in the Sacrament turned into the very body of Christ it self by Transubstantiation A. No it is not but the Elements retain still their own proper Nature of Bread and Wine after the words of Consecration and are so called 1 Cor. 11.26 For as often as ye eat this bread c. Matth. 26.29 But I say unto you I will not henceforth drink of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink
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
have not an high Priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities but was in all points tempted like as we are yet without sin Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy and find gracec to help in time of need Q. 13. What 's the last Inference from hence A. That the seeing Believers have a Father in Heaven they should never fear wants whilst they live nor be afraid to die since Death brings them to Heaven their Fathers house Of Sanctifying Gods Name Quest. 101. WHat do we pray for in the first Petition A. In the first Petition which is hallowed be thy Name we pray that God would enable us and others to gloryfy him in all that whereby he maketh himself known and that he would dispose all things to his own glory Q. 1. Is there any word full enough perfectly to express what God is A. No his Name is secret Iudg. 13.18 And the Angel of the Lord said unto him why askest thou thus after my name seeing it is secret A Name which none can tell Prov. 30.4 what is his name and what is his sons name if thou canst tell A Name above every Name Phil. 2.9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him and given him a name which is above every name But the Name by which he more especially manifests himself is the name I am Exod. 3.14 And God said unto Moses I am that I am And he said thus shalt thou say unto the Children of Israel I am hath sent me unto you Q. 2. What doth the Name of God I am signify to us A. It signifies to us first the reality of his being in opposition to Idols which are but imaginary and Phantastick things 1 Cor. 8.4 We know that an Idol is nothing in the world c. God is not only the most perfect being but the root of all other beings Q. 3. What else doth this Name I am import A. It imports both the perfection and eternity of Gods being I am implies he hath not that now which he had not formerly and that he shall not afterwards have what he hath not now And that there is neither beginning End or succession with God whose name is I am Q. 4. But what are we here to understand by the name of God A. All those things are here intended by which he manifests himself to the Creature as his Word Works and Ordinances but especially his glorious Attributes Exod. 34.5 6. The Lord the Lord God merciful and gracious long-suffering and abundant in goodness and truth Q. 5. What is it to Hallow or Sanctify his Name A. Not to infuse any holiness into him which he had not before so he Sanctifies us but to manifest and acknowledge the holiness of God Isa. 29.23 But when he seeth his Children the work of my hands in the midst of him they shall sanctify my name and sanctify the holy one of Iacob and shall fear the God of Israel Q. 6 Why Hallwed or Sanctified rather than Glorified Why that word rather than this Because his Holiness is the beauty and lustre of his other Attributes His Greatness appears in his Holiness Isa. 12.6 great is the holy one of Israel in the midst of thee So doth his Power Luke 1.49 For â—e that is mighty hath done to me great things and holy is his name And therefore his Holiness is that Attribute which Angels single out especially to celebrate Isa. 6.3 And one cried unto another and said holy holy holy is the Lord of Hosts c. And so do men also as it is the cause why they should glorify him Exod. 15.11 Who is like thee glorious in holiness c. Q. 7. What 's the first thing we are to intend in this Petition A. The meaning is that God would so dispose and order all thiâ—gs in the World as may best promote and advance the glory of his Name on which account we may Pray for the defeat of Gods Enemies Psal. 83.16 17 18. Fill their faces with shame that they may seek thy name O Lord. Let them be confounded and troubled for ever yea let them be put to shame and perish That men may know that thou whose name alone is Jehovah art the most high over all the Earth And the deliverance of his Church and people Psal. 79.9 Help us O God of our Salvation for the glory of thy name and deliver us and purge away our sins for thy names sake Q. 8. What 's the second Thing we are to intend in it A. That God would fit us for and use us in the most serviceable capacity for the glorifying of his Name Psal. 67.1 2 3. God be merciful unto us and bless us and cause his face to shine upon us That thy way may be known upon earth thy saving health among all nations Let the people praise thee O God let all the people praise thee Q. 9. What 's the third Thing intended in this Petition A. That God may not only glorify his own Name and use us to glorifie it but that it should be our endeavour and joy to have it glorfied by others all the World over Psal. 145.4 5 6. One generation shall praise thy works to another and shall declare thy mighty acts I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty and of thy wondrous works And men shall speak of the might of thy terrible acts and I will declare thy greatness Q. 10. Why must our Hearts be so intently set upon the Sanctification of Gods Name A. Because this is the ultimate end of our own and every other being Rom. 11.36 for of him and through him and to him arâ— all things to whom be glory for ever Amen And the particular end of God in our Effectual calling 1 Pet. 2.9 But ye are a chosen generation a Royal Priest-hood an holy nation a peculiar people that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light Q. 11. What 's the first Inference from hence A. That the dishonour of Gods Name must needs be a cutting Affliction to a gracious Soul Psal. 42.10 As with a sword in my bones my enemies reproach me while they say dayly unto me where is their God Q. 12. What 's the second Inference from hence A. That it is a dreadful infatuation and spiritual judgment upon those men that think they glorifie God in doing those things which his Soul hateth Isa. 66.5 Hear the word of the Lord ye that tremble at his word your brethren that hated you that cast you out for my names sake said let the Lord be glorified but he shall appear to your joy and they shall be ashamed And Iohn 16.2 They shall put you out of the Synagogues yea the time cometh that whosoever killeth you will think that he doth God service Q. 13. What is the third Inference from hence A. That it should be indifferent to a
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