13. For it is God that worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure Q. What benefits do they that are Effectually called partake of in this life A. They that are effectually called do in this life partake of Justification (z) Rom. 8. 30. Moreover whom he did predestinate them he also called and whom he called them he also justified and whom he justified them he also glorified Adoption (a) Eph. 1. 5. Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself according to the good pleasure of his will Sanctification and the several benefits which in this life do either accompany or flow from them (b) 1 Cor. 1. 30. Of him are ye in Christ Jesus who of God is made unto us wisdom and righteousness and sanctification and redemption Q What is Justification A. Justification is an act of Gods free grace wherein he pardoneth all our sins (c) Ro. 3. 24 25. v. 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Jesus Christ v. 25. Whom God hath set forth to be a propiation through faiâ—h in his blood to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past through the forbearance of God Rom. 4. 6. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works v. 7. Saying blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven and whose sins are covered v. 8. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin and accepteth us as righteous in his sight d 2 Cor. 5. 19. To wit that God was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself not imputing their trespasses unto them and hath committed to us the word of reconciliation v. 21. For he hath made him to be sin for us who knew no sin that we might be made the righteousness of God in him onely for the righteousness of Christ imputed to us e Rom. 5. 17. For if by one mans offence death reigned by one much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one Jesus Christ v. 18. Therefore as by the offence of one judgement came upon men unto condemnation even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life v. 19. As by one mans disobedience many were made sinners so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous and received by Faith alone f Gal. 2. 16. Knowing that man is not justified by the works of the law but by the faith of Jesus Christ even we have believed in Iesus Christ that we might be justified by the faith of Christ and not by the works of the law for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified Phil. 3. 9. And be found in him not having mine own righteousness which is of the law but that which is through the faith of Christ the righteousness which is of God by faith Q. What is Adoption A. Adoption is an act of Gods free grace g 1 Ioh. 3. 1. Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us that we should be called the sons of God therefore the world knoweth us not because it knew him not whereby we are received into the number and have a right to all the priviledges of the sons of God h Ioh. 1. 12. As many as received him to them gave be power to become the sons of God even to them that believe on his name Rom. 8. 17. And if children then heirs heirs of God and joint-heires with Christ if so be we suffer with him that we may be also glorified together Q. What is Sanctification A. Sanctification is the work of Gods free grace i 2 Thes 1. 13. God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and the belief of the truth whereby we are renewed in the whole man after the image of God k Ephes 4. 23. And be renewed in the Spirit of your mind v. 24. And that ye put on that new man which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness and are enabled more and more to die unto sin and live unto righteousness l Rom. 6. 4. Therefore we are buried with him by baptisme into death that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father even so we also should walk in newness of life v. 6. Knowing this that our old man is crucified with him that the body of sin might be destroyed that henceforth we should not serve sin Rom 8. 1. There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit Q. What are the benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from Justification Adoption and Sanctification A. The benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from Justification Adoption and Sanctification are assurance of Gods love peace of conscience m Rom. 5. 1. Therefore being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ V. 2. By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand and rejoyce in hope of the glory of God V. 5. And hope maketh not ashamed because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the holy Ghost which is given unto us joy in the holy Ghost n Rom. 14. 17. For the Kingdome of God is not meat and drink but righteousness and peace and joy in the holy Ghost encrease of grace o Prov. 4. 18. The path of the just is as the shining light that shineth more and more unto the perfect day and perseverance therein to the end p 1 Joh. 5. 13. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God that you may know that ye have eternal life and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God 1 Pet. 1. 5. Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last times Q. What benefits do believers receive from Christ at death A. The souls of believers are at their death made perfect in holiness q Heb. 12. 23. To the general assemby and Church of the first-born which are written in heaven and to God the judg of all and to the spirits of just men made perfect and do immediately passe into glory r 2 Cor. 5. 1. For we know that if our earthly houses of this Tabernacle were dissolved we have a building of God an house not made with hands eternal in the heavens V. 6. Therefore we are alwayes confident knowing that whilest we are at home in the body we are absent from the Lord. V. 8. We are confident I say and willing rather to be absent from the body and to be present with
the tree of knowledge of good and evill thou shalt not eat of it for on the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die Compared with Rom. 5. from v. 12. to v. 20. 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. 18. Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all to condemnation even so V. 19. For as by one mans disobedience many were made sinners so by the obedience c. And with 1 Cor. 15. 21 22. For since by man came death by man came also the resurrection of the dead For as in Adam all die even so in Christ shal all be made alive Q. Into what estate did the Fall bring mankind A The Fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery t Rom. 5. 12. Wherefore as by one man sin entred into the world and death by sin and so death passed upon all men for that all have sinned Rom. 3. 23. For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God Q. What is sin A. Sin is any want of conformity unto or transgression of any Law of God given as a Rule to the reasonable creature u 1 Joh. 3. 4. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the Law for sin is the transgression of the Law Gal. 3. 10-12 For as many as are of the works of the Law are under the curse for it is written Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the Law to do them And the Law is not of faith but the man that doth them shall live in them Q. Wherein consisteth the sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell A. The sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell consisteth in the guilt of Adams first sin * Rom. 5. 12-19 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. 19. For as by one mans disobedience many were made sinners so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous the want of that righteousness wherein he was created and the corruption of his nature whereby he is utterly indisposed disabled and made opposite unto all that is spiritually good and wholly inclined to all evill and that continually x Rom. 3. from v. 10. to v. 20. As it is written There is none righteous no not one V. 11. There is none that understandeth there is none that seeketh after God V. 12. They are all gone out of the way they are altogether become unprofitable there is none that doth good no not one V. 13. Their throat is an open sepulchre with their tongues they have used deceit the poison of Aspes is under their lips V. 14. Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness V. 15. Their feet are swift to shed blood V. 16. Destruction and misery are in their wayes V. 17. And the way of peace have they not known V. 18. There is no fear of God before their eyes V. 19. Now we know that what things soever the Law saith it saith to them who are under the Law that every mouth may be stopped and all the world may become guilty before God Eph. 2. 1 2 3. And you hath he quickned who were dead in trespasses and sins wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world according to the Prince of the power of the air the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind and were by nature the children of wrath even as others Rom. 5. 6. For when we were yet without strength in due time Christ died for the ungodly Rom. 8. 7 8. Because the carnall mind is enmity against God for it is not subject to the law of God neither indeed can be so then they that are in the flesh cannot please God Gen. 6. 5. And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually which is commonly called Originall sin and from which do proceed all actuall transgressions y Jam. 1. 14 15. But every man is tempted when he is drawn away by his own lust and enticed Then when lust hath conceived it bringeth forth sin and sin when it is finished bringeth forth death Mat. 15. 19. For out of the heart proceed evill thoughts murders adulteries fornications thefts false-witness blasphemies Q. How is Originall sin conveyed from our first Parents unto their posterity A. Original sin is conveyed from our first Parents unto their posterity by natural generation so as all that proceed from them in that way are conceived and born in sin z Psa 51. 5. Behold I was shapen in iniquity and in sin did my mother conceive me Job 14. 4. Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean not one Job 15. 14. What is man that he should be clean and he that is born of a woman that he should be righteous Job 3. 6. That which is born of the flesh is flesh and that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit Q. What misery did the Fall bring upon mankind A. The fall brought upon mankind the loss of communion with God a Gen. 3. 8-10-24 And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord amongst the trees of the garden V. 10. And he said I heard thy voice in the garden and I was afraid because I was naked and I hid my self V. 24. So he drove out the man and he placed at the East of the garden of Eden Cherubims and a flaming sword which turned every way to keep the way of the tree of life his displeasure and curse so as we are by nature children of wrath b Eph. 2. 2 3. Wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world according to the prince of the power of the air the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience amongst whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind and were by nature the children of wrath even as others bond-slaves to Sathan c 2 Tim. 2. 26. And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the Devil who are taken captive by him at his will and justly liable to all punishments in this world and that which is to come d Gen. 2. 17. But of the tree of knowledge of good and evil thou shalt not eat of it for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die Lam. 3. 39.
of his soul and be satisfied by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justifie many for he shall bear their iniquities V. 12. Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great and he shall divide the spoil with the strong because he hath poured out his soul unto death and he was numbred with the transgressors and he bare the sin of many and made intercession for the transgressors Heb. 7. 22. By so much was Jesus made a Surety of a better Testament Rom. 8. 32. He that spared not his own Son but delivered him up for us all how shall he not with him also freely give us all things 1 Pet. 1. 18 19. For as much as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things as silver and gold from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers V. 19. But with the precious blood of Christ as of a lamb without blemish and without spot imputing his righteousness to them e 2 Cor. 5. 21. For he hath made him to be sin for us who knew no sin that we might be made the righteousness of God in him and requiring nothing of them for their Justification but Faith f Rom. 3. 24 25. Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Jesus Christ V. 25. Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past through the forbearance of God which also is his gift g Eph. 2. 8. For by grace are ye saved through faith and that not of your selves it is the gift of God their Justification is to them of free grace h Eph. 1. 7. In whom we have redemption through his blood the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of his grace Q. What is justifying Faith A. Justifying Faith is a saving Grace i Heb. 10. 39. But we are not of them who draw back to perdition but of them who believe to the saving of the soul wrought in the heart of a Sinner by the Spirit k 2 Cor. 4. 13. We having the same Spirit of faith according as it is written I believed and therefore have I spoken we also believe and therefore speak Eph. 1. 17 18 19. That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ the Father of glory may give unto you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him V. 18. The eyes of your understanding being enlightned that ye may know what is the hope of his calling and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the Saints V. 19. And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe according to the working of his mighty power and word of God l Rom. 10. 14. How then shall they call on him on whom they have not believed and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard and how shall they hear without a preacher whereby he being convinced of his sin and misery and of the disability in himself and all other creatures to recover him out of his lost condition m Act. 2. 37. Now when they heard this they were pricked in their hearts and said unto Peter and to the rest of the Apostles Men and brethren what shall we do to be saved Act. 16. 30. And brought them out and said Sirs What must we do to be saved Joh. 16. 8 9. And when he is come he will convince the world of sin and of righteousness and of judgement Of sin because they believe not in me Rom. 5. 6. For when we were yet without strength in due time Christ died for the ungodly Eph. 2. 1. And you hath he quickned who were dead in trespasses and sins Act. 4. 12. Neither is there salvation in any other for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved not onely assenteth to the truth of the promise of the Gospel n Eph. 1. 13. In whom ye also trusted after that ye heard the word of truth the Gospel of your salvation in whom also after ye believed ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise but receiveth and resteth upon Christ and his righteousness therein held forth for pardon of sin o Joh. 1. 12. But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the sons of God even to them that believe on his name Act. 16. 31. And they said Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved and thine house Act. 10. 43. To him give all the Prophets witness that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins and for the accepting and accounting of his person righteous in the fight of God for salvation p Phil. 3. 9. And be found in him not having mine own righteousness which is by the Law but that which is through the faith of Christ the righteousness which is of God by faith Act. 15. 11. But we believe that through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved even as they Q. How doth Faith justifie a Sinner in the sight of God A. Faith justifies a sinner in the sight of God not because of those other graces which do alwayes accompany it or of good works that are the fruits of it q Gal. 3. 11. But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God is evident for the just shall live by faith Rom. 3. 28. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law nor as if the grace of Faith or any act thereof were imputed to him for his justification r Rom. 4. 5. But to him that worketh not but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly his faith is counted for righteousness Compared with Rom. 10. 10. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation but onely as it is an Instrument by which he receiveth and applieth Christ and his righteousness Å¿ Joh. 1. 12. But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the sons of God even to them that believe on his name Phil. 3. 9. And be found in him not having mine own righteousness which is by the law but that which is through the faith of Christ the righteousness which is of God by faith Gal. 2. 16. Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by the faith of Jesus Christ even we have believed in Jesus Christ that we might be justified by the faith of Christ and not by the works of the law for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified Q. What is Adoption A. Adoption is an act of the free grace of God t 1 Joh. 3. 1. Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us that we should be called the sons
of God in and for his onely Son Jesus Christ u Eph. 1. 5. Having predestinated us to the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself according to the good pleasure of his will 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 to redeem them that were under the law that we might receive the adoption of sons whereby all those that are justified are received into the number of his children * Joh. 1. 12. But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the sons of God even to them that believe on his name have his Name put upon them x 2 Cor. 6. 18. And I will be a Father unto you and ye shall be my sons and daughters saith the Lord Almighty Rev. 3. 12. Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the Temple of my God and he shall go no more out and I will write upon him the name of my God and the name of the City of my God which is new Jerusalem that cometh down out of heaven from my God and I will write upon him my new name the Spirit of his Son given to them y Gal. 4. 6. And because ye are sons God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts crying Abba Father are under his fatherly care and dispensations z Psal 103. 13. Like as a Father pittieth his children so the Lord pittieth them that serve him Prov. 14. 26. In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence and his children shall have a place of refuge Mat. 6. 32. For your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things admitted to all the liberties and priviledges of the sons of God made heirs of all the promises and fellow-heirs with Christ in glory a Heb. 6. 12. That ye be not flothfull but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises Rom. 8. 17. And if children then heirs hoirs of God and joynt-heirs with Christ if so be that we suffer with him that we may be also glorified together Q. What is Sanctification A. Sanctification is a work of Gods grace whereby they whom God hath before the foundation of the world chosen to be holy are in time through the powerful operation of his Spirit b Eph. 1. 4. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world that we should be holy and without blame before him in love 1 Cor. 6. 11. And such were some of you but ye are washed but ye are sanctified but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God 2 Thess 2. 13. But we are bound to give thanks to God alway for you brethren beloved of the Lord because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth applying the death and resurrection of Christ unto them c Rom. 6. 4 5 6. Therefore we are buried with him by Baptisme into death that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father even so we also should walk in newness of life V. 5. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection V. 6. Knowing this that our old man is crucified with him that the body of sin might be destroyed that henceforth we should not serve sin renewed in their whole man after the Image of God d Eph. 4. 23 24. And be renewed in the Spirit of your mind and that ye put on the new man which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness having the seeds of Repentance unto life and of all other saving graces put into their hearts e Act. 11. 18. When they heard these things they held their peace and glorified God saying Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life 1 Joh. 3. 9. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin for his seed remaineth in him and he cannot sin because he is born of God and those graces so stirred up increased and strengthened f Jude v. 20. But ye beloved building up your selves in your most holy faith praying in the Holy Ghost Heb. 6. 11 12. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end V. 12. That ye be not slothful but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises Eph. 3. 16 17 18 19. That he would grant you according to the riches of his glory to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man V. 17. That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith that ye being rooted and grounded in love V. 18. may be able to comprehend with all Saints what is the breadth and depth and length and height V. 19. And to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God Col. 1. 10 11. That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing being fruitfull in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God V. 11. Strengthened with all might according to his glorious power unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness as that they more and more die unto sin and rise unto newness of life g Rom. 6. 4-6-14 Therefore we are buried with him by baptisme unto death that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father so we also should walk in newness of life V. 6. Knowing this that our old man is crucified with him that the body of sin might be destroyed that henceforth we should not serve sin V. 14. For sin shall not have dominion over you for ye are not under the law but under grace Gal. 5. 24. And they that are Christs have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts Q. What is repentance unto life A. Repentance unto life is a saving Grace h 2 Tim. 2. 25. In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves if God peradventure may give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth wrought in the heart of a sinner by the Spirit i Zech. 12. 10. And I will pour upon the house of David and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and of supplications and they shall look on me whom they have pierced and mourn for him as one mourneth for his onely son and shall be in bitterness as one that is in bitterness for his first-born and word of God k Act. 11. 18 -20 21. When they heard these things they held their peace and glorified God saying Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life V. 20. And some of them were men of Cyprus and Cyrene who when they were come to
into the visible Church (l) 1 Cor. 12. 13. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body whether we be Jewes or Gentiles bond or free and are all made to drink into one Spirit and enter into an open and professed ingagement to be wholly and onely the Lords (m) Rom. 6. 4. Therefore we are buried by baptisme with him into death that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of his father so we also should walk in newnesse of life Q. Unto whom is Baptisme to be administred A. Baptisme is not to be administred to any that are out of the visible Church and so strangers from the Covenant of promise till they professe their faith in Christ and obedience to him (n) Act. 8. 36 37. And as they went on their way they came to a certain water and the Eunuch said see here is water what hinders me to be baptized v. 37. And Philip said If thou believest with all thine heart thou mayest And he answered and said I believe that Jesus is the Son of God and he baptized him Act. 2 38. Then Peter said repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost but infants descending from parents either both or but one of them professing faith in Christ and obedience to him are in that respect within the Covenant and to be baptized (o) Gen. 17. 7-9 And I will establish my Covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting Covenant to be a God unto thee and to thy seed after thee And God said unto Abraham Thou shalt keep my Covenant therefore thou and thy seed after thee in their generations this is my Covenant c. Compared with Gal. 3. 9 -14 So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham v. 4. That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith And with Col. 2. 11 12. In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands in cutting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ v. 12. Buried with him in Baptisme wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God who hath raised him from the dead And with Act. 2. 38 39. Then Peter said repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost v. 39. For the promise is unto you and to your children and to all that are afar off even as many as the Lord our God shall call And with Rom. 4. 11 12. And he received the sign of Circumcision a seal of the Righteousnesse of faith which he had being yet uncircumcised that he might be the father of all them who believe though they be not circumcised that righteousnesse might be imputed unto them also v. 12. And the father of Circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision onely but also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham which he had being yet uncircumcised 1 Cor. 7. 14. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband else were your children unclean but now are they holy Mat 28. 19. Go ye therefore teaâ—h all nations baptizing them in the name c. Luk. 18. 15 16. And they brought unto him also infants that he should touch them but when his discsples saw it they rebuked them v. 16. But Jesus called them unto him and said suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not for of such is the kingdom of heaven Rom. 11. 16. For if the first fruits be holy the lump is also holy and if the root be holy so are the branches Q. How is our Baptisme to be improved by us A. The needful but much neglected duty of improving our Baptisme is to be performed by us all our life long especially in the time of temptation and when we are present at the administration of it to others (p) Col. 2. 11 12. In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ V. 12. Buried with him in baptisme wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God who hath raised him from the dead Rom. 6. 4-6-11 Therefore we are buried by baptisme with him into death that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of his father so we also should walk in newnesse of life V. 6. Knowing this that our old man is crucified with him that the body of sin might be destroyed that henceforth we should not serve sin V. 11. Likewise reckon ye also your selves to be dead indeed unto sin buâ— alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. by serious and thankful consideration of the nature of it and of the ends for which Christ instituted it the priviledges and benefits conferred and sealed thereby and our solemn vow made therein (q) Rom 6. 3 4 5. Know ye not that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death V. 4. Therefore we are buried by baptisme with him into death that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of his father so we also should walk in newness of life V. 5. For if we have been planted together in the likenesse of his death we shall be also in the likenesse of his resurrection by being humbled for our sinful defilement our falling short of and walking contrary to the grace of Baptisme and our ingagements (r) 1 Cor. 1. 11 12 13. For it hath been declared unto me of you my brethren by them which are of the house of Châ—oâ— thaâ— there are contentions among you V. 11. Now this I say that every one of you saith I am of Paul and I am of Apollo and I of Cephas and I of Christ V. 13. Is Christ divided was Paul crucified for you or were ye baptized in the name of Paul Rom. 6. 2 3. God forbid How shall we that are dead to sin live any longer therein V. 3. Know ye not that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death by growing up to assurance of pardon of sin and of all other blessings sealed to us in that Sacrament (Å¿) Rom. 4. 11 12. And he received the sign of circumcision a seal of righteousness of faith which he had being yet uncircumcised that he might be the father of all them who believe though they be not circumcised that righteousness might be imputed unto them also V. 12. And the father
his name Q. How doth the Spirit help us to pray A. We not knowing what to pray for as we ought the Spirit helpeth our infirmities by inabling us to understand both for whom and what and how prayer is to be made and by working and quickning in our hearts although not in all persons nor at all times in the same measure those apprehensions affections and graces which are requisite for the right performance of that duty (Å¿) Rom. 8. 26 27. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities for we know not what we should pray for as we ought but the Spirit it self maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered v. 27. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth the mind of the Spirit because he maketh intercession for the Saints according to the will of God Psal 10. 17. Lord thou hast heard the desire of the humble thou wilt prepare their heart thou wilt cause thine ear to hear Zech. 12. 10. And I will pour upon the house of David and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and Supplications and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced and mourn c. Q. For whom are we to pray A. We are to pray for the whole Church of Christ upon earth (t) Ephes 6. 18. Praying also alwayes with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all Saints Psal 28. 9. Save thy people and bless thine inheritance feed them also and lift them up for ever for magistrates (u) 1 Tim. 2. 1 2. I exhort therefore that first of all supplication prayers intercessions and giving of thanks be made for all men v. 2. For Kings and for all that are in authority that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty and Ministers (*) Col. 4. 3. Withall praying also for us that God would open to us a door of utterance to speak the Mysteries of Christ for which I am in bonds for our selves (x) Gen. 32. 11. Deliver me I pray thee from the hand of my brother from the hand of Esau for I fear him least he will come and smite me c. our brethren (y) Jam. 5. 16. Confess your faults one to another and pray one for another that you may be healed The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much yea our enemies (z) Mat. 5. 44. But I say unto you Love your enemies bless them that curse you do good to them that hate you and pray for them that despightfully use you and persecute you and for all sorts of men living (a) 1 Tim. 2. 1 2. See above in u or that shall live hereafter (b) Joh. 17. 20. Neither pray I for these alone but for them also which shall believe on me through their word 2 Sam. 7. 29. Therefore now let it please thee to bless the house of thy servant that it may continue for ever before thee for thou O Lord God hast spoken it and with thy blessing let the house of thy sevant be blessed for ever but not for the dead (c) 2 Sam. 12. 21 22 23. Then said his servants unto him What thing is this that thou hast done thou didst fast and weep for the child while it was alive but when the child was dead thou didst rise and eat bread v. 22. And he said While the child was yet alive I fasted and wept for I said Who can tell whether God will be gracious to me that the child may live v. 23. But now he is dead wherefore should I fast can I bring him back again I shall go to him but he shall not return to me nor for those that are known to have sinned the sin unto death (d.) 1 Ioh. 5. 16. If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death he shall ask and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death There is a sin unto death I do not say that he shall pray for it Q. For what things are we to pray A. We are to pray for all things tending to the glory of God (e) Mat. 6. 9. After this manner therefore pray ye Our father which art in heaven hallowed be thy Name the welfare of the Church (f) Psal 51. 18. Do good in thy good pleasure unto Sion build thou the walls of Jerusalem Psal 122. 6. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem they shall prosper that love thee our own (g) Mat. 7. 11. If ye then being evil know how to give good gifts to your children how much more shall your father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him or others good (h) Psal 125. 4. Do good O Lord to those that be good to them that are upright in their heart but not for any thing that is unlawful (i.) 1 Joh. 5. 14. And this is the confidence that we have in him that if we ask any thing according to his will he heateth us Q. How are we to pray A. We are to pray with an awful apprehension of the Majesty of God (k) Eccl. 3. 1. Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God and be more ready to hear then to offer the sacrifice of fools for they consider not that they do evil deep sense of our own unworthiness (l) Gen. 18. 27. And Abraham said Behold now I have taken upon me to speak unto the Lord who am but dust and ashes Gen. 32. 10 I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies and of all the truth which thou hast shewn unto thy servant c. necessities (m) Luk. 15. 17 18 19. And when he came to himself he said How many hired servants in my fathers house have bread enough and to spare and I perish with hunger v. 18. I will arise and go to my father and say unto him Father I have sinned against heaven and before thee v. 19. And am no more worthy to be called thy son make me as one of thy hired servants sins (n) Luk. 18. 13 14. And the Publican standing afar off would not lift up so much as his eyes to heaven but smote upon his brest saying Lord be merciful to me a sinner v. 14. I tell you This man went down to his house justified rather then the other for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted with penitent (o) Psal 51. 17. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit a broken and a contrite heart O God wilt thou not despise thankful (p) Phil. 4. 6. Be careful for nothing but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God and inlarged hearts (q) 1 Sam. 1. 15. And Hannah answered and said No my Lord I am a woman of a
comes to passe (r) Eph. 1. 4. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundations of the world that we should be holy and without blame before him in love v. 11. In whom also we obtained an inheritance being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the purpose of his own will Rom. 9. 22. What 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 v. 23. And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy which he had afore prepared unto glory Q. How doth God execute his decrees A. God executeth his decrees in the works of Creation and Providence Q. VVhat is the work of Creation A. The work of Creation is Gods making all things of nothing by the Word of his Power in the space of six dayes and all very Good (Å¿) Gen. 1. throughout Heb. 11. 3. Through Faith we understand that the world were framed by the Word of God so that things which were seen were made of things that do appear Q. How did God create man A. God created man male and female after his own image in knowledge righteousness and holiness with dominion over the creatures (t) Gen. 1. 26. And God said let us make man in our own image after our likeness and let them have dominion 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 v. 27. So God created man in his own image in the image of God created he him male and female created he them v. 28. And God blessed them and God said unto them be fruitful and multiply and replenish the earth and subdue it and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the fowl of the air and over every living thing that creepeth upon the earth Col. 3. 10. And have put on the new man which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him Eph. 4. 24. And that ye put on that new man which after God is created in righteousnesle and true holinesse Q. What are Gods works of Providence A. Gods works of Providence are his most holy (u) Psal 145. 17. The Lord is righteous in all his wayes and holy in all his works wise * Psal 104. 24. O Lord how manifold are thy works in wisdom hast thou made them all the earth is full of thy riches Isa 28 29. This also cometh from the Lord of hosts which is wonderful in counsel and excellent in working and powerful preserving (x) Heb. 1. 3. Who being the brightness of his glory and the express image of his person and upholding all things by the word of his power when he had by himself purged our sins sate down on the right hand of the Majesty on high and governing all his creatures and all their actions (y) Psal 103. 19. The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heaven his kingdom ruleth over all Matth. 10. 29. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing and one of them shall not fall to the ground without your Father v. 30. But the very hairs of your head are all numbred v. 31. Fear ye not therefore ye are of more value then many sparrows Q. What speciall act 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 death (z) Gal. 3. 12. And the law is not of faith but the man that doth them shall live in them Gen. 2. 17. But of the tree of knowledge of good and evil thou shalt not â—â—â—â—f it for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die Q. Did our first Parents continue in the state wherein they were created A. Our first Parents being left to the freedom of their own will fell from the estate wherein they were created by sinning against God (a) Gen. 3. 6. And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food and that it was pleasant to the eyes and a tree to be desired to make one wise she took of the fruit thereof and did eat and gave also to her husband with her and he did eat v. 7 And the eyes of them both were opened and they knew that they were naked and they sewed fig-leaves together and made themselves aprons v. 8. And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden v. 13. And the Lord God said unto the woman what is this that thou hast done and the woman said the Serpent beguiled me and I did eat Eccles 7. 29. Lo this onely have I found that God hath made man upright but they have sought out many inventions Q. What is sin A. Sin is any want of conformity unto or transgression of the Law of God (b) 1 John 3. 4. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law for sin is the transgression of the law Q. What was the sin whereby our first Parents fell from the estate wherein they were created A. The sin whereby our first Parents fell from the state wherein they were created was their eating the forbidden fruit (c) Gen. 3. 6. vide supra V. 12. The woman which thou gavest to be with me she gave me of the tree and I did eat Q. Did all mankind fall in Adams first transgression A. The Covenant being made with Adam not only for himself but for his posterity all mankind descending from him by ordinary generation sinned in him and fell with him in his first transgression (d) Gen. 2. 16. And the Lord God commanded the man saying of every tree of the garden thou mayst freely eat v. 17 But of the tree of the knowledg of good and evil thou shalt not eat of it for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die Rom. 5. 12. Wherefore as by one man sin entred into the world and death by sin and so death passed upon all men for that all have sinned 1 Cor. 15. 21. For since by man came death by man also came the resurrection of the dead v. 22. For as in Adam all die so in Christ shall all be made alive Q. Into what estate did the fall bring mankind A. The Fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery (e) Rom. 5. 12. Wherefore as by one man sin entred in to the world and death by sin and so death passed upon all men for that all have sinned Q. Wherein consists the sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell
A. The sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell consists in the guilt of Adams first sin the want of Original righteousness and the corruption of his whole nature which is commonly called Original sin together with all actual transgressions which proceed from it (f) Rom 5. 10. to the 20. Eph. 2. 1. And you hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins V. 2. Wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world according to the Prince of the power of the air the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience V. 3. Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh fulfilling the desiâ—es of the flesh and of the mind and were by nature children of wrath even as others Jam. 1. 14. But every man is tempted when he is drawn away of his own lust and enticed V. 15. Then when lust hath conceived it brings forth sin and sin when it is finished bringeth forth death Mat. 15. 19. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts murders adulteries fornications thefts false witness blasphemies Q. What is the misery of that estate whereinto man fell A. All mankind by their fall lost communion with God (g) Gen. 3. 8. Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden V. 10. And he said I heard the voice in the garden and I was afraid because I was naked and I hid my self V. 24 So he drove out the man and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims and a flaming sword which turned every way to keep the way of the tree of life are under his wrath and curse (h) Eph. 2. 2 3. And by nature the children of wrath even as others Gal. 3. 10. For as many as are of the works of the Law are under the curse for it is written Cursed is every one which continueth not in all things which are written in the Law to do them and so made liable to all miseries in this life to death it self and to the pains of hell for ever (i) Lam. 3. 39. Wherefore doth the living man complain a man for the punishment of his sins Ro. 6. 23. For the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Mat. 25. 41. Then shall he say to them on the left hand Depart from me ye cursed into everlasting fire prepared for the divel and his angels V. 46. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment but the righteous into life eternal Q. Did God leave all mankind to perish in the state of sin and misery A. God having out of his meer good pleasure from all eternity elected some to everlasting life (k) Eph. 4. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world that we should be holy and without blame before him in love did enter into a covenant of grace to deliver them out of the estate of sin and misery and to bring them into an estate of Salvation by a Redeemer (l) Rom 3. 21. But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested being witnessed by the law and the Prophets V. 22. Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe for there is no difference Gal. 3. 21. Is the law then against the promises of God God forbid for if there had been a law given which could have given life verily righteousness should have been by the law V. 22. But the Scripture hath concluded all under sin that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might he given to them that believe Q. Who is the Redeemer of Gods Elect A. The only Redeemer of Gods Elect is the Lord Jesus Christ (m) 1 Tim. 25. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and man the man Christ Jesus V. 6. Who gave himself a ransom for all to be testified in due time who being the eternal Son of God became man (n) 1 John 1. 14. And the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld his glory the glory as of the only begotten of the Father full of grace and truth Gal. 4. 4. But when the fulness of the time was come God sent forth his Son made of a woman made under the Law and so was and continueth to be God and man in two distinct Natures and one Person for ever (o) Rom. 9. 5. Whose are the Fathers and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came who is over all God blessed for ever Luk. 1. 35. And the Angel answered and said unto her The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee and the power of the Highest shall over shadow thee herefore also that Holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called The Son of God Col. 2. 9. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily Heb 7. 24. But this man because he continueth ever hath an unchangeable Priesthood V. 25. Wherefore he is able to save them to the uttermost that come to God by him seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them Q. How did Christ being the Son of God become man A. Christ the Son of God became man by taking to himself a true body (p) Heb. 2. 14. For as much then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood he also himself likewise took part of the same that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death that is the Divel V. 16. For verily he took not on him the nature of Angels but he took on him the seed of Abraham Heb. 10 5 Wherefore when he cometh into the world he saith Sacrifice and offering thou wouldst not but a body hast thou prepared me and a reasonable soul (q) Mat. 26 38. Then saith he unto them My soul is exceeding sorrowful even unto death tarry you here and watch with me being conceived by the power of the Holy Ghost in the womb of the Virgin Mary and born of her (r) Luk. 1. 31. Behold thou shalt conceive in thy womb and bring forth a Son and shalt call his name Jesus V. 35. vide supra V. 42. And she spake out with a loud voice and said Blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb Gal. 44. vide supra yet without sin (Å¿) Heb. 4. 15. For we have not an High Priest which cannot be touched with a feeling of our infirmities but was in all points tempted as we are yet without sin Heb. 7. 26. For such an High Priest became us who is holy harmless undefiled separate from sinners and made higher then the heavens Q. What offices doth Christ execute as our Redeemer A. Christ as our Redeemer executeth the Offices of a Prophet of a Priest and of a King both in his
Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you and lo I am with you alwayes even to the end of the world Amen to execute the Offices of Prophet t Act. 3. 21 22. whom the heavens must receive until the times of restitution of all things which God hath spoken of by the mouth of all his holy Prophets since the world began For Moses truly said unto the Fathers A Prophet shal the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren like unto me him shal ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you Luke 4. 18-21 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because he hath anointed me to preach the Gospel to the poor he hath sent me to heal the broken in heart to preach deliverance to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind to set at liberty them that are bruised V. 21. And he began to say unto them This day is this Scripture fulfilled in your ears Priest u Heb. 5. 5 6 7. So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an High-Priest but he that said unto him Thou art my Son to day have I begotten thee As he saith also in another place Thou art a Priest for ever after the order of Melchizedck who in the dayes of his flesh when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong cries and tears unto him that was able to save him from death and was heard in that he feared Heb. 4. 14 15. Seeing then that we have a great High-Priest that is passed into the heavens Jesus the Son of God let us hold fast our profession For we have not an High-Priest that cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities but was in all points tempted like as we are yet without sin and King of his Church * Psal 2. 6. Yet have I set my King upon my holy hill of Sion Matth. 21. 5. Tell ye the daughter of Sion Behold thy King cometh unto thee meek and sitting upon an ass and upon a colt the foal of an ass Isai 9. 6 7. For unto us a child is born unto us a Son is given and the government shall be upon his shoulder and his name shall be called Wonderful Counsellor the mighty God the Everlasting Father the Prince of peace Of the encrease of his government and peace there shall be no end upon the throne of David and upon his Kingdom to order it and to establish it with judgement and with justice from henceforth even for ever The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this Phil. 2. 8 9 10 11. And being found in fashion as a man he humbled himself and became obedient unto death even the death of the cross wherefore God also hath highly exalted him and given him a name which is above every name That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow of things in heaven and things on earth and things under the earth and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father in the estate both of his Humiliation and Exaltation Q. How doth Christ execute the office of a Prophet A. Christ executeth the office of a Prophet in his revealing to the Church x Joh. 1. 18. No man hath seen God at any time the only begotten Son which is in the bosom of the Father he hath declared him in all ages by his Spirit and word y 1 Pet. 1. 10 11 12. Of which salvation the Prophets have enquired and searched diligently who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you V. 11. Searching what or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signifie when it testified before-hand the sufferings of Christ and the glory which should follow V. 12. Unto whom it was revealed that not unto themselves but unto us they did minister the things which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the Gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven which things the Angels desire to look into in diverse wayes of administration z Heb. 1. 1 2. God who at sundry times and in diverse manners spake in times past unto the Fathers by the Prophets hath in these last dayes spoken unto us by his Son whom He hath appointed heir of all things by whom also he made the worlds the whole will of God a Joh. 15. 15. Henceforth I cal you not servants for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doth but I have called you friends for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you in all things concerning their edification and salvation b Act. 20. 32. And now Brethren I commend you to God and to the word of his grace which is able to build you up and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified Eph. 4. 11 12 13. And he gave some Apostles and some Prophets and some Evangelists and some Pastors and Teachers V. 12. For the perfecting of the Saints for the work of the Ministry for the edifying of the body of Christ V. 13. Till we all come in the unity of the Faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God unto a perfect man unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ Joh. 20. 31. But these are written that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ the son of God and that believing you might have life through his name Q. How doth Christ execute the office of a Priest A. Christ executeth the office of a Priest in his once offering himself a sacrifice without spot to God c Heb. 9. 14 28. How much more shall the blood of Christ who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God V. 28. So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation to be a reconciliation for the sins of his people d Heb. 2. 17. Wherefore it behooved him in all things to be made like unto his brethren that he might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God to make reconciliation for the sins of the people and in making continual intercession for them e Heb. 7. 25. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them Q. How doth Christ execute the office of a King A. Christ executeth the office of a King in calling out of the world a people to himself f Act. 15. 14 15 16. Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visâ—â— the Gentiles to take out of them a
at his own right hand in the heavealy places and his coming again to judge the world n Act. 1. 11. Who also said Ye men of Galilee why stand ye gazing up into heaven This same Jesus who is taken from you up into heaven shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven Act. 17. 31. Because he hath appointed a day in which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained whereof he hath given assurance unto all men in that he hath raised him from the dead Q. How was Christ exalted in his resurrection A. Christ was exalted in his resurrection in that not having seen corruption in death of which it was not possible for him to be held o Act. 2. 24 -27 Whom God hath raised up having loosed the pains of death because it was not possible he should be holden of it V. 27. Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption and having the very same body in which he suffered with the essential properties thereof p Luk. 24. 39. Behold my hands and my feet that it is I my self handle me and see me for a spirit hath not flesh and bones as ye see me have but without mortality and other common infirmities belonging to this life really united to his soul q Rom. 6. 9. Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more death hath no more dominion over him Rev. 1. 18. I am he that liveth and was dead and behold I am alive for evermore Amen and have the keys of hell and death he rose again from the dead the third day by his own power r Joh. 10. 18. No man taketh it from me but I lay it down of my self I have power to lay it down and I have power to take it again this commandment have I received of my Father whereby he declared himself to be the Son of God Å¿ Rom. 1. 4. And declared to be the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness by the resurrection from the dead to have satisfied divine justice t Rom. 8. 34. Who is he that condemneth it is Christ that died yea rather that is risen again who is even at the right hand of God who also maketh intercession for us to have vanquished death and him that had the power of it u Heb. 2 14. For as much then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood he also himself likewise took part of the same that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death that is the Divel and to be Lord of quick and dead * Rom. 14. 9. For to this end Christ both died and rose and revived that he might be Lord both of the dead and living all which he did as a publick person x 1 Cor. 15. 21 22. For since by man came death by man came also the resurrection of the dead for as in Adam all die so in Christ shall all be made alive the head of his Church y Eph. 1. 20 22 23. Which he wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places V. 22. And hath put all things under his feet and gave him to be the head over all things to the Church which is his body the fulnesse of him that filleth all in all Col. 1. 18. And he is the head of the body the Church who is the beginning the fiâ—st born from the dead that in all things he might have the preheminence for their justification z Rom. 4. 25. Who was delivered for our offences and was raised again for our justification quickning in grace a Eph. 2. 1-5 6. And you hath he quickned who were dead in trespasses and sins V. 5. Even when we were dead in sins hath quickened us together with Christ by grace ye are saved And hath raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus Col. 2. 12. Buried with him in Baptisme wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God who hath raised him from the dead support against enemies b 1 Cor. 15. 25 26 27. For he must reign till he hath put all his enemies under his feet The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death For he hath put all things under his feet but when he saith all things are put under him it is manifest that he is excepted who did put all things under him and to assure them of their resurrection from the dead at the last day c 1 Cor. 15. 20. But now is Christ risen from the dead and become the first fruits of them that slept Q. How was Christ exalted in his Ascension A. Christ was exalted in his Ascension in that having after his resurrection often appeared unto and conversed with his Apostles speaking to them of the things pertaining to the Kingdom of God d Act. 1. 2 3. Until the day in which he was taken up after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the Apostles whom he had chosen To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs being seen of them forty dayes and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God and giving them commission to Preach the Gospel to all nations e Mat. 28. 19 20. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you and lo I am with you alway unto the end of the world fourty dayes after his resurrection he in our nature and as our head f Heb. 6. 20. Whither the fore-runner is for us entred even Jesus made an High-Priest for ever after the order of Melchizedck triumphing over enemies g Eph. 4. 8. Wherefore he saith when he ascended up on high he led captivity captive and gave gifts unto men visibly went up into the highest heavens there to receive gifts for men h Act. 1. 9 10 11. And when he bad spoken these things while they beheld he was taken up and a cloud received him out of their sight And while they looked stedfastly towards heaven as he went up behold two men stood by them in white apparel who also said Ye men of Galilee why stand ye gazing up into heaven the same Jesus which is taken up from you into heaven shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven Eph. 4. 10. He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens that he might fill all things Psal 68. 18. Thou hast ascended on high thou hast led captivity captive thou hast received gifts for men yea for the
gathered together against it V. 4. In that day saith the Lord I will smite every horse with astonishment and his rider with madness and I will open mine eyes upon the house of Judah and will smite every horse of the people with blindness V. 8. In that day shall the Lord defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem and he that is feeble among them at that day shall be as David and the house of David shall be as God as the Angel of the Lord before them V. 9. and it shall come to pass in that day that I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem and of enjoying the communion of Saints the ordinary means of salvation a Act. 2. 39-42 For the promise is to you and to your children and to all that are afar off even as many as the Lord our God shall call V. 42 And they continued stedfastly in the Apostles Doctrine and in fellow-ship and in breaking of bread and in prayers offers of grace by Christ to all the members of it in the ministery of the Gospel testifying that whosoever believes in him shall be saved b Psal 147. 19 20. He sheweth his words unto Jacob his statutes and his judgements unto Israel He hath not dealt so with any nation and as for his judgements they have not known them praise ye the Lord. Rom. 9. 4. Who are Israelites to whom pertaineth the adoption and the glory and the Covenants and the giving of the Law and the service of God and the promises Eph. 4. 11 12. And he gave some Apostles and some Prophets and some Evangelists and some Pastors and Teachers for the perfecting of the Saints for the work of the ministery for the edifying of the body of Christ Mark 16. 15 16. And he said unto them Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved but he that believeth not shall be damned and excluding none that will come unto him c Joh. 6. 37. All that the father giveth me shall come unto me and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out Q. What is the invisible Church A. The invisible Church is the whole number of the elect that have been are or shall be gathered into one under Christ the Head d Eph. 1. 10-22 23. That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ both which are in heaven and which are on earth even in him V. 22. 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 Joh. 10. 16. And other sheep I have which are not of this fold them also I must bring and they shall hear my voice and there shall be one fold and one shepherd John 11. 52. And not for that nation onely but that also he should gather together in one the children of God that were scattered abroad Q. What speciall benefits do the Members of the invisible Church enjoy by Christ A. The Members of the Invisible Church by Christ enjoy Union and Communion with him in grace and glory e Joh. 17. 21. That they all may be one as thou Father art in me and I in thee that they also may be one in us that the world may believe that thou hast sent me Eph. 2. 5 6. Even when we were dead in sins hath quickned us together with Christ by grace ye are saved And hath raised us up together and hath made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus John 17. 24. Father I will that they also whom thou hast given me be with me where I am that they may behold my glory which thou hast given me for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world Q. What is that Union which the Elect have with Christ A. The Union which the Elect have with Christ is the work of Gods grace f Eph. 1. 22. And hath put all things under his feet and gave him to be head over all things to the Church Eph. 2. 6 7 8. And hath raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus V. 7. That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness towards us in Christ Jesus V. 8. For by grace are ye saved through faith and that not of your selves it is the gift of God whereby they are Spiritually and mystically yet really and inseparably joyned to Christ as their head and husband g 1 Cor. 6. 17. But he that is joyned to the Lord is one Spirit John 10. 28. And I give unto them eternal life and they shall never perish neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand Eph. 5. 23-30 For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the Church and he is the Saviour of the body V. 30. For we are members of his body of his flesh and of his bones which is done in their effectual Calling h 1 Pet. 5. 10. But the God of all grace who hath called us into his eternal glory by Christ Jesus after that ye have suffered a while make you perfect stablish strengthen settle you 1 Cor. 1. 9. God is faithful by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Q. What is effectual calling A. Effectual Calling is the work of Gods almighty power and grace i Joh. 5. 25. Verily verily I say unto you the hour is coming and now is when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God and they that hear shall live Eph. 1. 18 19. 20. The eyes of your understanding being enlightned that ye may know what is the hope of his calling and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the Saints V. 19. And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us ward who believe according to the working of his mighty power which he wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places 2 Tim. 1. 8 9. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord nor of me his prisoner but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the Gospel according to the power of God V. 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 Jesus before the world began whereby out of his free and especial love to his Elect and from nothing in them moving him thereunto k Tit. 3. 4 5. 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 Eph. 2. 4 5-7 8 9. But God who is rich in mercy for his great love wherewith he loved us V. 5. Even when we were dead in sins hath quickned us together with Christ by grace ye are saved V. 7. That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness towards us through Christ Jesus V. 8. For by grace ye are saved through faith and that not of your selves it is the gift of God V. 9. Not of works lest any man should boast Rom. 9. 11. For the children being not yet born neither having done any good or evil that the purpose of God according to election might stand not of works but of him that calleth he doth in his accepted time invite and draw them to Jesus Christ by his Word and Spirit l 2 Cor. 5. 20. Now then we are Ambassadors for Christ as though God did beseech you by us we pray you in Christs stead be ye reconciled to God Compared with 2 Cor. 6. 1 2. We then as workers together with him beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain for he saith I have heard thee in a time accepted and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee Behold now is the accepted time behold now is the day of salvation Joh. 6. 44. No man can come to me except the Father who hath sent me draw him and I will raise him up at the last day 2 Thess 2. 13 14. But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you brethren beloved of the Lord because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth Whereunto he hath called you by our Gospel to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ savingly inlightning their mindes m Acts 26. 18. To open their eyes and to turn them from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith which is in me 1 Cor. 2. 10 -12 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit for the Spirit searcheth all things yea even the deep things of God V. 12. Now we have not received the Spirit of the world but the Spirit which is of God that ye might know the things freely given us of God renewing and powerfully determining their wills n Ezek. 11. 19. I will give them one heart and I will put a new Spirit within you and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh and will give them an heart of flesh Ezek. 36. 26 29. 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 V. 29. I will also save you from all your uncleannesses and I will call for the corn and increase it and lay no famine upon you Joh. 6. 45. It is written in the Prophets And they shall be all taught of God every man therefore that hath heard and learned of the Father cometh unto me so as they although in themselves dead in sin are hereby made willing and able freely to answer his call and to accept and imbrace the grace offered and conveyed therein o Eph. 2. 5. Even when we were dead in sins hath quickned us together with Christ by grace ye are saved Phil. 2. 13. For it is God that worketh in you to will and to do of his good pleasure Deut. 30. 6. And the Lord thy God will circumcise thy heart and the heart of thy seed to love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul that thou maist live Q. Are the Elect effectually called A. All the Elect and they onely are effectually called p Act. 13. 48. And when the Gentiles heard this they were glad and glorified the word of the Lord and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed although others may be and often are outwardly called by the ministery of the Word q Mat. 22. 14. For many are called but few are chosen and have some common operations of the Spirit r Mat. 7. 22. Many will say unto me in that day Lord Lord Have we not prophesied in thy name and in thy name cast out Divels and in thy name done many wonderful works Mat. 13. 20 21. But he that received the seed into stony places the same is he that heareth the word and anon with joy received it yet hath he not root in himself but dureth for a while for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word by and by he is offended Heb. 6. 4 5. For it is impossible for those who were once enlightned and have tasted of the heavenly gift and were made partakers of the holy Ghost and have tasted the good word of God and the powers of the world to come If they c. who for their wilful neglect and contempt of the grace offered to them being justly left in their unbelief do never truly come to Jesus Christ Å¿ Joh. 12. 38 39 40. That the saying of Esaias the Prophet might be fulfilled which he spake Lord who hath believed our report and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed V. 39 Therefore they could not believe because that Esaias said again V. 40. He hath blinded their eyes and hardned their heart that they should not see with their eyes and understand with their heart and be converted and I should heal them Act. 28. 25 26 27. And when they agreed not among themselves they departed after that Paul had spoken one word Well spake the Holy Ghost by the Prophet Esaias unto our Fathers saying V. 26. Go unto this people and say Hearing ye shall hear and shall not understand and seeing ye shall see and not perceive V. 27. For the heart of this people is waxed gross and their ears are dull of hearing and their eyes have they closed least they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears understand with their heart and be converted and I should heal them Joh. 6. 64 65. But there are some of you that believe not For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not and who should betray him V. 65. And he said Therefore said I unto you that no man can come unto me except it were given him of the Father Psal 81. 11 12. But my people would not hearken to my voice and Israel would have none of me so I gave them up to their own hearts lusts and they walked in their own counsels Q. What is the Communion in Grace which the Members of the Invisible Church have with Christ A. The Communion in Grace which the Members of the Invisible Church have with
Christ is their partaking of the virtue of his Mediation in their Justification t Rom. 8. 30. Moreover whom he did predestinate them he also called and whom he called them he also justified and whom he justified them he also glorified Adoption u Eph. 1. 5. Having predestinated us to the adoption of Children by Jesus Christ to himself according to the good pleasure of his will Sanctification and whatever else in this life manifests their Union with him * 1 Cor. 1. 30. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus who of God is made unto us wisdom and righteousness and sanctification and redemption Q. What is Justification A. Justification is an act of Gods free grace unto sinners * Rom. 3. 22 -24 25. Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all that believe for there is no difference V. 24. Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Jâ—sus Christ V. 25. Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past through the forbearance of God Rom. 4. 5. But to him that worketh not but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly his saith is accounted for righteousness in which he pardoneth all their sins accepteth and accounteth their persons righteous in his sight y 2 Cor. 5. 19-21 To wit that God was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself not imputing their trespasses unto them and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation V. 21. For he hath made him to be sin for us who knew no sin that we might be made the righteousness of God in him Rom. 3. 22-24 25-27 28. Even the righteousness of God which is by the faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all that believe for there is no difference V. 24. Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Jesus Christ V. 25. Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past through the forbearance of God V. 27. Where is boasting then it is excluded By what law Of works Nay but by the law of faith V. 28. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law not for any thing wrought in them or done by them z Tit. 3. 5. 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 Eph. 1. 7. In whom we have redemption through his blood the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of his grace but onely for the perfect obedience and full satisfaction of Christ by God imputed to them a Rom. 5. 17 18 19. Therefore if any man be in Christ he is a new creature old things are past away behold all things are become new V. 18. And all things are of God who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ and hath given to us the ministery of reconciliation V. 19. To wit that God was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself not imputing their trespasses unto them and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation Rom. 4. 6 7 8. Even as David also describes the blessedness of the man unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works V. 7. Saying Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven and whose sins are covered V. 8. Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin and received by Faith alone b Act. 10. 43. To him give all the Prophets witness that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins Gal. 2. 16. Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by the faith of Jesus Christ even we have believed in Jesus Christ that we might be justified by the faith of Christ and not by the works of the law for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified Phil. 3. 9 And be found in him not having mine own righteousness which is of the law but that which is through the faith of Christ the righteousness which is of God by faith Q. How is Justification an Act of Gods free Grace A. Although Christ by his Obedience and Death did make a proper reall and full satisfaction to Gods Justice in the behalf of them that are justified c Rom. 5. 8 9 10-19 But God commendeth his love towards us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us V. 9. Much more then being now justified by his blood we shall be saved from wrath through him V. 10. For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son much more being reconciled shall we be saved by his life V. 19. For as by one mans disobedience many were made sinners so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous yet in as much as God accepteth the satisfaction from a Surety which he might have demanded of them did provide this Surety his own onely Son d 1 Tim. 2. 5 6. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men the man Christ Jesus Who gave himself a ransom for all to be testified in due time Heb. 10. 10. By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all Mat. 20. 28. Even as the Son of man came not to be ministred unto but to minister and to give his life a ransome for many Dan. 9. 24-26 Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy City to finish the transgression and to make an end of sins and to make reconciliation for iniquity and to bring in everlasting righteousness and to seal up the vision and prophesie and to anoint the most Holy V. 26. And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off but not for himself and the people of the Prince that shall come shall destroy the City and the Sanctuary and the end thereof shall be with a flood c. Esa 53. 4 5 6-10 11 12. Surely he hath born our griefs and carried our sorrows yet we did esteem him stricken smitten of God and afflicted V. 5. But he was wounded for our transgressions he was bruised for our iniquities the chastisement of our peace was upon him and with his stripes we are healed V. 6. All we like sheep have gone astray we have turned every one to his own way and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all Ver. 10. Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him he hath put him to grief when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin he shall see his seed he shall prolong his dayes and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hands V. 11. He shall see of the travel
possessed of z Eph. 2. 5 6. Even when we were dead in sins hath quickned us together with Christ by grace ye are saved And hath raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus and as an earnest thereof enjoy the sense of Gods love a Rom. 5. 5. And hope maketh not ashamed because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given to us Compared with 2 Cor. 1. 22. Who hath also sealed us and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts peace of conscience joy in the Holy Ghost and hope of glory b Rom. 5. 1 2. Therefore being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ V. 2. By whom also we have access by faith into the grace wherein we stand and rejoyce in hope of the glory of God Rom. 14. 17. For the kingdome of God is not meat and drink but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Ghost as on the contrary the sense of Gods revenging wrath horror of conscience and a fearful expectation of judgement are to the wicked the beginning of their torments which they shall endure after death c Gen. 4. 13. And Cain said unto the Lord My punishment is greater then I can bear Mat. 27. 4. Saying I have sinned in that I have betrayed innocent blood And they said What is that to us see thou to it Heb. 10. 27. But a certain fearful looking for of judgement and fiery indignation which shall devour the adversaries Rom. 2. 9. Tribulation and anguish upon every soul of man that doth evil of the Jew first and also of the Gentile Mark 9. 44. Where their worm dieth not and the fire is not quenched Q. Shall all men die A. Death being threatned as the wages of sin d Rom. 6. 23. For the wages of sin is death but the gift of God is eternaal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. it is appointed unto all men once to die e Heb. 9. 27. And as it is appointed unto all men once to die but after death the judgement for that all have sinned f Rom. 5. 12. Wherefore as by one man sin entred into the world and death by sin and so death passed upon all men for that all have sinned Q. Death being the wages of sin why are not the righteous delivered from death seeing all their sins are forgiven in Christ A. The righteous shall be delivered from death it self at the last day and even in death are delivered from the sting and curse of it g 1 Cor. 15. 26 -55 The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death V. 55. O death where is thy sting c. Heb. 2. 15. And deliver them who through fear of death were all their life-time subject to bondage so that although they die yet it is out of Gods love h Isa 57. 1 2. The righteous perisheth and no man layes it to heart and merciful men are taken away none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil to come V. 2. He shall enter into peace they shall rest in their beds each one walking in his uprightness 2 King 22. 20. Behold therefore I will gather thee unto thy fathers and thou shalt be gathered into thy grave in peace and thine eyes shall not see all the evil which I will bring upon this place to free them perfectly from sin and misery i Rev. 14. 13. And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me write Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth yea saith the Spirit that they may rest from their labours and their works do follow them Eph. â— 27. That he might present it to himself a glorious Church not having spot or wrinkle or any such thing but that it should be holy and without blemish and to make them capable of further communion with Christ in glory which they then enter upon k Luk. 23. 43. And Jesus said unto him Verily I say unto thee This day shalt thou be with me in Paradise Phil. 1. 23. For I am in a streight betwixt two having a desire to depart and to be with Christ which is far better Q. What is the communion in Glory with Christ which the members of the invisible Church enjoy immediately after death A. The communion in Glory with Christ which the members of the invisible Church enjoy immediately after death is in that their souls are then made perfect in holiness l Heb. 12. 23. To the general assembly and Church of the first-born which are written in heaven and to God the judge of all and to the Spirits of just men made perfect and received into the highest heavens m 2 Cor. 5. 1 -6-8 For we know that if our earthly house of this Tabernacle were dissolved we have a building of God an house not made with hands eternal in the heavens V. 6. Therefore we are alwayes confident knowing that while we are present in the body we are absent from the Lord V. 8. We are confident I say and willing rather to be absent from the body and present with the Lord. Phil. 1. 23. For I am in a streight betwixt two having a desire to depart and to be with Christ which is far better Compared with Act. 3. 21. Whom the heavens must receive untill the times of restitution of all things which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy Prophets since the world began And with Eph. 4. 10. He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens that he might fill all things where they behold the face of God in light and glory n 1 Joh. 3. 2. Beloved now are we the sons of God and it doth not yet appear what we shall be but we know that when he shall appear we shall be like him for we shall see him as he is 1 Cor. 13. 12. For now we see through a glass darkly but then face to face now I know in part but then I shall know even as also I am known waiting for the full redemption of their bodies o Rom. 8. 23. And not onely they but our selves also who have the first fruits of the Spirit even we our selves groan within our selves waiting for the Adoption to wit the Redemption of our body Psal 16. 9. Therefore my heart is glad and my glory rejoyceth my flesh also shall rest in hope which even in death continue united to Christ p 1 Thess 4. 14. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him and rest in their graves as in their beds q Esa 57. 2. He shall enter into peace they shall rest in their beds each one walking in his uprightness till at the last day they be again united to their souls r whereas the souls
Gen. 38. 26. And Judah acknowledged them and said she hath been more righteous then I because I gave her not to Shelah my son and he knew her again no more having more wives or husbands then one at the same time b Mal. 2. 14. 15. Yet ye say Wherefore because the Lord hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth against whom thou hast dealt treacherously yet is shâ— thy companion and the wife of thy covenant V. 15. And did not he make one yet had he the residue of the spirit and wherefore one that he might seek a godly seed therefore take heed to your spirit that ye deal not treacherously Mat. 19. 5. For this cause shall a man leave father and mother and shall cleave to his wife and they twain shall be one flesh unjust divorce c Mal. 2. 16. For the Lord the God of Israel saith that he hateth putting away for one covereth violence with his garment saith the Lord of hosts therefore take heed to your spirits that ye deal not treacherously Mat. 5. 32. But I say unto you that whosoever shall put away his wife saving for the cause of fornication causeth her to commit adultery and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery or disertion d 1 Cor. 7. 12. 13. But to the rest I speak not the Lord If any brother hath a wife that believeth not and she be pleased to dwell with him let him not put her away V. 13. And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not and if he be pleased to dwell with her lâ—t her not leave him idleness gluttony drunkenness e Ezek. 16. 49. Behold this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom pride fulness of bread and abundance of idleness was in her and her daughters neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy Pro. 23. 30 31 -33 They that tarry long at the wine they that go to seek new wine V. 31. Look not upon the wine when it is red V. 33. Thine eyes shall behold strange women and thy heart shall utter perverse things unchast company f Gen. 39. 10. And it came to pass as she spake to Joseph day by day that he hearkned not unto her to lie by her or to be with her Prov. 5. 8. Remove thy way far from her and come not neer the door of her house lascivious songs books pictures dancings stage-playes g Eph. 5. 4. Neither filthiness nor foolish talking nor jestings which are not convenient but rather giving of thanks Ezek. 23. 14 15 16. And that she encreased her whoredom for when she saw men pourtrayed upon the wall the images of the Chaldeans pourtrayed with vermilion V. 15. Girded with girdles upon their loynes exceeding in dyed attire upon their heads all of them Princes to look to after the manner of the Babylonians of Chalde the land of their nativity V. 16. And as soon as she saw them with her eyes she doted upon them and sent messengers unto them into Caldea Isai 23. 15 16 17. And it shall come to pass in that day that Tyre shall be forgotten 70 years according to the dayes of one King after the end of 70. years shall Tyre sing as an harlot V. 16. Take an Harp go about the city thou harlot thou hast been forgotten make sweet melody sing many songs that thou maist be remembred V. 17. And it shall come to pass after the end of 70. years that the Lord will visit Tyre and she shall turn to her hire and commit fornication with all the kingdoms of the world upon the face of the earth Isal 3. 16. Moreover the Lord saith Because the daughters of Sion are haughty and walk with stretched forth necks and wanton eyes walking and mincing as they go and making a tinckling with their feet Mar. 6. 12. And when the daughter of the said Herodias came in and danced and pleased Herod and them that sat with him the King said unto the damsel Ask of me whatsoever thou wilt and I will give it thee c. Rom. 13. 13. Let us walk honestly as in the day not in rioting and drunkenness not in chambring and wantonness not c. 1 Pet. 4. 3. For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles when we walked in lasciviousness lusts excess of wine revellings banquettings and abominable idolatries and all other provocations to or acts of uncleanness either in our selves or others h 2 King 9. 30. And when Jehu was come to Jezreel Jezabel heard of it and she painted her face and tired her head and looked out at a window Compared with Jer. 4. 30. And when thou art spoiled what wilt thou do though thou cloathest thy self with crimson though thou deckest thee with ornaments of gold though thou rentest thy face with painting in vain shalt thou make thy self fair thy lovers will despise thee they will seek thy life and with Ezek. 23. 40. And furthermore ye have sent for men to come from far unto whom a messenger was sent and lo they came for whom thou didst wash thy self paintedst thine eyes and deckedst thy self with ornaments Q. Which is the eighth Commandment A. The eighth Commandment is Thou shalt not steal i Exod. 20. 1â— Q. What are the duties required in the eighth Commandment A. The duties required in the eighth Commandment are truth faithfulnesse and justice in contracts and commerce between man and man k Psal 15. 2-4 He that walketh uprightly and worketh righteousness and speaketh the truth in his heart V. 4. he that sweareth to his own hurt and changeth not Zech. 7. 4 -10 Then came the word of the Lord of hosts unto me saying V. 10 And oppress not the widdow nor the fatherless nor the stranger nor the poor and let none of you imagine evil against his brother in your heart Zech. 8. 16 17. These are the things that ye shall do Speak every man the truth to his neighbour execute the judgement of truth and peace in your gates V. 17. And let none of you imagine evil in your hearts against his neighbour and love no false oath for all these are things that I hate saith the Lord. rendring to every one his due l Rom. 13. 7. Render therefore to all their dues tribute to whom tribute is due custome to whom custome fear to whom fear honour to whom honour restitution of goods unlawfully detained from the right owners thereof m Lev. 6. 2 3. 4 5. If a soul sin and commit a trespass against the Lord and lie to his neighbour in that which was delivered him to keep or in fellowship or in any thing taken away by violence or hath deceived his neighbour V 3. Or have found that which was lost and lieth concerning it and sweareth falsely in any of all these that a man doth sinning therein V. 4 Then it shall be because
sanctifie your selves both ye and your brethen that ye may bring up the ark of the Lord God of Israel unto the place that I have prepared for it v. 13. For because ye did it not at the first the Lord our God made a breach upon us for that we sought him not after the due order v. 14. So the Priests and Levites sanctified themselves to bring up the Ark of the Lord God of Israel Q. Wherein do the Sacraments of Baptisme and the Lords Supper agree A. The Sacraments of Baptism and the Lords Supper agree in that the author of both is God (m) Mat. 28. 19. Go therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the name c. 1 Cor. 11. 23. For I have received of the Lord that which I also delivered unto you that the Lord Jesus in the same night wherein he was betrayed took bread c. the spiritual part of both is Christ and his benefits (n) Rom. 6. 3 4. Know ye not that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death v. 4. Therefore we are buried with him by bapitsme into death that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of his Father even so we also should walk in newness of life 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 both are seals of the same Covenant (o) Rom. 4. 11. And he received the sign of circumcision a seal of the righteousness of faith which he had being yet uncircumcised that he might be the father of all them who believe though they be not circumcised that righteousness might be imputed unto them also Compared with Col. 2. 11 12. In whom also ye were circumcised with the Circumcision made without hands in putting away the body of the sins of the flesh by the cirumcision of Christ buried with him in baptisme wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God who hath raised him from the dead Mat. 26. 27 28. And he took the cup and gave thanks and gave it to them saying Drink ye all of this v. 28. For this is my blood of the New Testament which is shed for many for the remission of sins are to be dispensed by Ministers of the Gospel and by none other (p) Joh. 1. 33. And I knew him not but he that sent me to baptize with water the same said unto me upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending c. Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations Baptizing them in the Name of the Father and of the Son and the Holy Ghost 1 Cor. 11. 23. For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you that the Lord Jesus the same night wherein he was betrayed took bread c. 1 Cor. 4. 1. Let a man so account of us as of the Ministers of Christ and Stewards of the mysteries of God Heb. 5. 4. And no man taketh this honour unto himself but he that is called of God as was Aaron and to be continued in the Church of Christ until his second coming (q.) Mat. 28. 19 20. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing c. v. 20. Teaching them to observe all things which I command you and loe I am with you even to the end of the world 1 Cor. 11. 26. For as often as ye eat this bread and drink this cup ye shew the Lords death till he come Q. Wherein do the Sacraments of Baptisme and the Lords Supper differ A. The Sacraments of Baptisme and the Lords Supper differ in that Baptisme is to be administred but once with water to be a signe and seal of our regeneration and ingrafting into Christ (r) Mat. 3. 1â— I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance but he that cometh after me c. Tit. 3. 5. 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 Gal. 3. 27. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ and that even to infants (Å¿) Gen. 17. 7 -9 And I will establish my Covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting Covenant to be a God unto thee and thy seed after thee v. 9. And God said unto Abraham Thou shalt keep my Covenant therefore thou and thy seed after thee in their generations Act. 2. 38 39. Then Peter said unto them Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus for the remission of sin and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost v. 39. For the promise is unto you and to your children and to all that are afar off even as many as the Lord our God shall call 1 Cor 7. 14. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband else were your children unclean but now they are holy whereas the Lords Supper is to be administred often in the Elements of bread and wine to represent and exhibit Christ as spiritual nourishment to the soul (t) 1 Cor. 11. 23 24 25 26. I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you that the Lord Jesus the same night wherein he was betrayed took bread v. 24. 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 v. 25. 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 ye as oft as ye drink it in remembrance of me v. 26. For as oft as ye eat this bread c. and to confirm our continuance and growth in him (u) 1 Cor. 10. 16. The Cup of blessing which we bless is it not the Communion of The bread which we break is it not the Communion of the body of Christ and that onely to such as are of years and ability to examine themselves (*) 1 Cor. 11. 28. 29. But let a man examine himself and so let him eat of that Bread and drink of that Cup. v. 29. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily eateth and drinketh damnation to himself not discerning the Lords body Q. What is Prayer A. Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God (x) Psal 62. 8. Trust in him at all times ye people pour out your hearts before him God is a refuge for us in the Name of Christ (y) Joh. 16. 23. And in that day ye shall ask me nothing verily I say unto you whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name he will give it you by the help of his
that we from the heart forgive others their offences (c) Lu. 11. 4. And forgive us our sins for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us c. Mat. 6. 14 15. For if ye forgive men their trespasses your heavenly Father will also forgive you V. 15. But if ye forgive not men their trespasses neither will your heavenly Father forgive your trespasses Mat. 18. 35. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses Q. What do we pray for in the sixth Petition A. In the sixth Petition which is And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil (d) Mat. 6. 13. acknowledging that the most wise righteous and gracious God for divers holy and just ends may so order things that we may be assaulted foiled and for a time led captive by temptations (e) 2 Chron. 32. 31. Howbeit in the business of the Ambassadors of the Princes of Babylon who sent unto him to enquire of the wonder that was done in the land God left him to try him that he might know all that was in his heart that Satan (f) 1 Chron. 21. 1. And Satan stood up against Israel and provoked David to number Israel the world (g) Luke 21. 34. And â—ake heed to your selves lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfetting and drunkenness and acres of this life and so that day come upon you unawares Mark 4. 19. And the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches and the lusts of other things entring in choke the word and it becomes unfruitful and the flesh are ready powerfully to draw us aside in snare us (h) Jam 1. 14. But every man is tempted when he is drawn away of his own lust and enticed and that we even after the pardon of our sins by reason of our corruption (i) Gal. 5. 17. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit and the Spirit against the flesh and these are contrary the one to the other so that ye cannot do the things that ye would weakness want of watchfulness (k) Mat. 26. 41. Watch and pray that ye enter not into temptation the spirit indeed is willing but the flesh is weak are not onely subject to be tempted and forward to expose our selves unto temptations (l) Mat 26. 69 70 71 72. Now Peter sate without in the Palace and a damsel came to him saying Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee V. 70. But he denyed before them all saying I know not what thou sayest V. 71. And when he was gone into the porch another maid saw him and said to them that were there This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth V. 72. And again he denied with an oath saying I do not know the man Gal. 2. 11 12 13 14. But when Peter was come to Antioch I withstood him to the face because he was to be blamed V. 12. For before that certain came from James he did eat with the Gentiles but when they were come he withdrew and separated himself fearing them of the circumcision V. 13. And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation V 14. But when I saw that they walked not uprightly according to the truth of the Gospel I said to Peter c. 2 Chr. 18. 3. And Ahab king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat king of Judah wilt thou go with me to Ramoth Gilead And he answered him I am as thou art and my people as thy people and we will be with thee in the war Compared with 2 Chron 19. 2. and Jehu the son of Hanani the Seer went out to meet him and said to king Jehoshaphat shouldst thou help the ungodly and love them that hate the Lord therefore is wrath upon thee before the Lord. but also of our selves unable and unwilling to resist them to recover out of them and to improve them (m) Rom. 7. 23 24. But I see another law in my members warring against the law of my mind and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin that is in my members V. 24. O wretched man that I am who shall deliver me from this body of death 1 Chron. 21. 1 2 3 4. And Satan stood up against Israel and provoked David to number Israel V. 2. And David said to Joab and the rulers of the people go number Israel from Bersheba to Dan c. V. 3. And Joab answered The Lord make his people an hundred times so many more as they be but my lord the King are they not my lords servants why then doth my lord require this thing why will he be a cause of trespass to Israel V. 4. Nevertheless the Kings word prevailed against Joab wherefore Joab departed and went c. 2 Chr. 16. 7 8 9 10. And at that time Hanani the seer came to Asâ— King of Judah and said to him because thou hast rested on the King of Syria and not relied on the Lord thy God therefore is the host the King of Syria escaped out of thine hand V. 8. Were not the Ethiopians and Lubins a huge host c. and yet because thou didst rely on the Lord he delivered them into thine hand V. 9. For the eyes of the Lord run too and fro throughout the earth to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose hearts is perfect towards him herein thou hast done foolishly therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars V. 10. Then Asa was wroth with the seer and put him into a prison house for he was in a rage with him because of this thing and Asa oppressed some of the people the same time worthy to be left under the power of them (n) Psal 81. 11 12. But my people would not hearken unto my voice and Israel would have none of me V. 12. So I gave them up unto their hearts lust and they walked in their own counsels we pray that God would so over-rule the world and all in it (o) Joh. 17. 15. I pray not that thou shouldst take them out of the world but that thou shouldst keep them from the evil subdue the flesh (p) Psal 51. 10 Create in me a clean O God and renew a right spirit within me Psal 119. 133. Order my steps in thy word and let not any iniquity have dominion over me and restrain Satan (q) 2 Cor. 12. 7 8. And lest I should be exalted above measure trhough the abundance of revelations there was given to me a throne in the flesh the messenger of Satan to buffet me lest I should be exalted above measure V. 8. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice that it might depart from me order all things (r) 1 Cor. 10. 12 13. Wherefore let him that thinks he standeth take heed lest he fall V. 13. There hath no
estate of humiliation and exaltation (t) Act. 3. 22. For Moses truly said unto the Fathers A Prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren like unto me him shall you hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you Heb. 12. 25. See that ye refuse not him that speaketh for if they escaped not who râ—fused him that spake on earth much more shall not we escape if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven Compared with 2 Cor. 13. 3. Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me which to you ward is not weak but is mighty in you Heb. 5. 5. So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an High Priest but he that said unto him thou art my Son to day have I begotten thee v. 6. As he saith also in another place thou art a Priest for ever after the order of Melchizedeck v. 7. Who in the dayes of his flesh when he had offered up prayers and supplicitions with strong crying and tears unto him who is able to save him from death and was heard in that he feared Psal 2. 6. Yet have I set my King upon my holy hill of Sion Isa 9. 6. For unto us a child is born unto us a Son is given and the government shall be upon his shoulders and his name shall be called Wonderful Counsellor the mighty God the everlasting Father the Prince of peace v. 7. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end upon the throne of David and upon his Kingdom to order it and to establish it with judgement and justice from henceforth even for ever the zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this Mat. 21. 5. Tell ye the daughter of Sion behold thy King cometh unto thee meek and sitting upon an ass and a coalt the foal of an ass Psal 2. 8. Ask of me and I will give thee the Heathen for thine inheritance and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession thou shalt break them with a rod of iron thou shalt dash them in pieces like a Potters vessel v. 10. Be wise now therefore O ye Kings be instructed ye judges of the earth v. 11. Serve the Lord with fear and rejoyce with trembling Q. How doth Christ execute the office of a Prophet A. Christ executeth the office of a Prophet in reveleing to us by his word and Spirit the will of God for our salvation (u) Ioh. 1. 18. No man hath seen God at any time the only begotten Son which is in the bosom of the Father he hath declared him 1 Pet. 1. 10. Of which salvation the Prophets have enquired and searched diligently who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you v. 11. Searching what or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signifie when it testified before-hand the sufferings of Christ and the glory which should follow v. 12. Unto whom it was reveled that not unto themselves but unto us they did minister the things which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the Gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven which things the Angels desire to look into Ioh. 15. 15. Henceforth I call you not servants for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doth but I have called you friends for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you Ioh. 20. 3â— These things are written that you might believe that Iesus is the Christ the Son of God and that believing you might have life through his name Q. How doth Christ execute the office of a Priest A. Christ executeth the office of a Priest in his once offering up of himself a sacrifice to satisfie divine Justice (*) Heb. 9. 14. How much more shall the blood of Christ who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God purge your consciences from dead works to serve the living God v. 28. So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time withouâ— sin unto salvation and reconcile us to God (x) Heb. 2 17. In all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren that he might be a marciful and faithful High-Priest in things pertaining to God to make reconciliation for the sins of the people and in making continual intercession for us (y) Heb. 7. 24. But this man because he continueth ever hath an unchangeable Priesthood v. 25. Wherefore he is able to save to the uttermost those that come to God by him seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them Q. How doth Christ execute the office of a King A. Christ executeth the office of a King in subduing us to himself (z) Act. 15. 14. Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles to take out of them a people for his name v. 15. And to this agree the words of the Prophet as it is written v. 16. After this I will return and build again the tabernacle of David which is fallen down and I will build again the ruines thereof and I will set it up in ruling (a) Isa 33. 22. The Lord is our Judg the Lord is our Law-giver the Lord is our King he will save us and desending us (b) Isa 32. 1. Behold a King shall reign in righteousness and Princes shall rule in judgement v. 2. And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind and a covert from the tempest as rivers of waters in a dry place as the shadow of a rock in a weary land and restraining and conquering all his and our enemies (c) 1 Cor. 15. 25. For he mâ—st reign till he hath put all enemies under his feet Ps 110. throughout Q. Wherein did Christs humiliation consist A. Christs humiliation consisted in his being born and that in a low condition (d) Luk. 2. 7. And she brought forth her first-born Son and wrapped him in swadling-clothes and laid him in a manger because there was no room for them in the Inne made under the law (e) Gal. 4. 4. But when the fulness of time was come God sent forth his Son made of a woman made under the law undergoing the miseries of this life (f) Heb. 12. 2. Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross despising the shame and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God v. 3. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself lest ye be wearied and faint in your mindes Isa 53. 2. For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant and as a root out of a dry ground he hath no form nor comliness and when we shall see him there is no beauty that we should desire him v. 3. He is despised
fifth Petition which is and forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors (l) Mat 6. 12. we pray that God for Christs sake would freely pard on all our sins (m) Psal 51. 1 2 -7 9. Have mercy upon me O God according to thy loving kindness according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions v. 2. Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity and cleanse me from my sin v. 7 Purge me with hysop and I shall be clean wash me 〈◊〉 I shall be whiter then snow v. 9. Hide thy face from my sins and blot out all mine iniquities Dan. 9. 17 18 19. Now therefore our God hear thou the prayer of thy servant and his supplication v. 19. O Lord hear O Lord forgive for thine own sake which we are the rather encouraged to ask because by his grace we are enabled from the heart to forgive others (n) Luk. 11. 4. And forgive us our sins for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us Mat. 18. 35. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also to you if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses Q. What do we pray for in the sixth Petition A. In the sixth Petition which is And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil (o) Mat. 6. 13. we pray that God would either keep us from being tempted to sin (p) Mat. 26. 41. Watch and pray that ye enter not into temptation the Spirit indeed is willing but the flesh is weak or support and deliver us when we are tempted (q) 2 Cor. 12. 8. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice that it might depart from me Q. What doth the conclusion of the Lords Prayer teach us A. The conclusion of the Lords Prayer which is For thine is the Kingdom the power and the glory for ever Amen (r) Mat. 6. 13. teacheth us to take our incouragement in prayer from God onely (Å¿) Dan. 9. 4-7 8 9 -16 17 18 19. And I prayed unto the Lord my God and made my confession and said O Lord the great and dreadful God keeping the Covenant and mercy to them that love him and keep his Commandments v. 7. O Lord righteousuess belongeth unto thee but unto us confusion of faces as at this day to the men of Judah and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem and unto all Israel that are neer and that are far off thorow all the countreys whither thou hast driven them because of their trespass that they have trespassed against thee v. 8. O Lord to us belongeth confusion of face to our Kings to our Princes to our Fathers because we have trespassed against thee v. 9. To the Lord our God belongs mercies and forgivenesses though we have rebelled against him v. 16. O Lord according to all thy righteousness I beseech thee let thine anger and thy fury be turned away from thy City Jerusalem thy holy mountain because for our sins and for the iniquities of our fathers Jerusalem and thy people are become a reproach to all that are about us v. 17. Now therefore O our God hear the prayer of thy servant and his supplications and cause thy face to shine upon the Sanctuary that is desolate for the Lords sake v. 18. O my God encline thine ear and hear open thine eyes and behold our desolation and the City that is called by thy Name for we do not present our supplications before thee for our righteousness but for thy great mercies v. 19. O Lord hear O Lord forgive O Lord hearken and doe defer not for thine own sake O my God for thy City and thy people are called by thy Name and in our prayers to praise him ascribing Kingdom power and glory to him (t) 1 Chr. 29. 10 11 12 13. Wherefore David blessed the Lord before all the Congregation and David said Blessed be thou Lord God of Israel our Father for ever v. 11. Thine O Lord is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty for all that is in the heavens and in the earth is thine thine is the Kingdom O Lord and thou art exalted as head above all v. 12. Both riches and honours come of thee and thou reignest over all and in thine hand is power and might and in thine hand it is to make great and to give strength unto all v. 13. Now therefore our God we thank thee and praise thy glorious name And in testimony of our desire and assurance to be heard we say Amen (u) 1 Cor. 14. 16. Else when thou shalt bless with the Spirit how shall he that ocupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest Rev. 22. 20 21. He which testifieth these things saith Surely I come quickly Amen Even so come Lâ—rd Jesus v. 21. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all AMEN The Ten COMMANDMENTS EXODUS XX. GOD spake all these words saying I am the LORD thy God which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt out of the house of bondage I. Thou shalt have no other Gods before me II. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above or that is in the earth beneath or that is in the water under the earth thou shalt not bow down thy self to them nor serve them For I the LORD thy God am a jealous God visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me and keep my Commandments III Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain For the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain IV. Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy Six dayes shalt thou labor 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 cattel nor thy stranger that 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 V. Honor thy father and thy mother that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee VI. Thou shalt not kill VII Thou shalt not commit adultery VIII Thou shalt not steal IX Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor X. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbors house thou shalt not covet thy neighbors wife nor his man-servant nor his maid-servant nor his ox nor his ass nor any thing that is thy neighbors FINIS The LORDS PRAYER Matth. 6. OVr Father which art in heaven Hallowed be thy name Thy Kingdom come Thy will be
done on earth as it is in heaven Give us this day our daily bread And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debters And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory for ever Amen The CREED I BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty maker of heaven and earth And in Jesus Christ his onely Son our Lord which was conceived by the holy Ghost born of the Virgin Mary suffered under Pontius Pilate was crucified dead and buried he descended into hell * i. e. Continued in the state of the dead and under the power of death till the third day the third day he rose again from the dead he ascended into heaven and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead I believe in the holy Ghost the holy Catholick Church the Communion of Saints the forgiveness of sins the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting Amen SO much of every Question both in the Larger and Shorter Catechism is repeated in the Answer as maketh every Answer an entire Proposition or sentence in it self to the end the Learner may further improve it upon all occasions for his encrease in knowledge and piety even out of the course of catechising as well as in it And albeit the substance of the doctrine comprised in that Abridgement commonly called The Apostles Creed be fully set forth in each of the Catechismes so as there is no necessity of inserting the Creed it self yet it is here annexed not as though it were composed by the Apostles or ought to be esteemed Canonical Scripture as the Ten Commandments and the Lords Prayer much less a Prayer as ignorant people have been apt to make both it and the Decalogue but because it is a brief sum of the Christian faith agreeable to the Word of God and anciently received in the Churches of Christ Cornelius Burges Prolocutor pro tempore Henry Roborough Scriba Adoniram Byfield Scriba To the Right Honorable THE LORDS COMMONS Assembled in Parliament The Humble Advice of the Assembly of Divines now sitting by Ordinance of Parliament at Westminster Concerning CHURCH-GOVERNMENT The Preface JEsus Christ upon whose shoulders the Government is whose name is called Wonderful Counsellour the Mighty God the Everlasting Father the Prince of Peace of the encrease of whose Government and Peace there shall be no end who sits upon the throne of David and upon his Kingdome to order it and to establish it with Judgment and Justice from henceforth even for ever having all power given unto him in Heaven and Earth by the Father who raised him from the dead and set him on his own right hand far above all Principalities and Power and Might and Dominion and every name that is named not only in this world but also in that which is to come and put all thing under his feet and gave him to be the head over all things to the Church which is his body the fulness of him that filleth all in all He being ascended up far above all Heavens that he might fill all things received gifts for his Church and gave offices necessary for the edification of his Church and perfecting of his Saints Mat. 28. 18 19 20. v. 18. And Jesus came and spake unto them saying All power is given unto me in Heaven and in Earth v. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost v. 20. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you and lo I am with you alway even unto the end of the world Amen Eph. 1. 20 21 22 23. v. 20. Which he wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places v. 21. Far above all Principality and Power and Might and Dominion and every name that is named not only in this world but also in that which is to come v. 22. And hath put all things under his feet and gave him to be the head over all things to the Church v. 23. Which is his body the fulness of him that filleth all in all compared with Eph. 4. 8 11. v. 8. Wherefore he saith when he ascended up on high he led captivity captive and gave gifts unto men v. 11. And he gave some Apostles and some Prophets and some Evangelists and some pastors and teachers And with Psal 68. 18. Thou hast ascended on high thou hast led captivity captive thou hast received gifts for men yea for the rebellious also that the Lord God might dwell among them Of the Church THere is one General Church visible held forth in the New Testament 1 Cor. 12. 12 13 28. For as the body is one and hath many members and all the members of that one body being many are one body so also is Christ v. 13. For by one spirit are we all baptized into one body whether we be Jews or Gentiles whether we be bond or free and have been all made to drink into one Spirit v. 28. And God hath set some in the Church First Apostles Secondarily Prophets Thirdly Teachers after that miracles then gifts of healings helps governments diversities of tongues Together with the rest of the Chapter The Ministry Oâ—acles and Ordinances of the New Testament are given by Jesus Christ to the General Church visible for the gathering and perfecting of it in this life until his second coming 1 Cor. 12. 28. See before Eph. 4. 4 5. v. 4. There is one body and one spirit even as ye are called in one hope of your calling v. 5. One Lord one Faith one Baptism Compared with ver 10. 11 12 13 15 16. v. 10. He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens that he might fill all things v. 11. And he gave some Apostles and some Prophets and some Evangelists and some pastors and teachers v. 12. For the perfecting of the saints for the work of the ministry for the edifying of the body of Christ v. 13. Till we all come in the unity of the faith and of the knowledg of the Son of God unto a perfect man unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ v. 15. But speaking the truth in love may grow up into him in all things which is the head even Christ v. 16. From whom the whole body fitly joyned together and compacted by that which every joynt supplieth according to the effectual working in the measure of every part maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of it self in love Particular visible Churches Members of the General Church are also held forth in the New Testament Gal 1. 21 12. v. 21. Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia v. 22. And was unknown by face unto the Churches of Judea which were in
hearing Neh. 8. 1 2 13. v. 1. And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that was before the water-gate and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses which the Lord had commanded to Israel v. 2. And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women and all that could hear with understanding upon the first day of the seventh moneth v. 3. and he read therein v. 13. And on the second day were gathered together the chief of the fathers of all the people the priests and the Levites unto Ezra the sâ—r the even to understand the words of the law 2. That the Ministers of the Gospel have as ample a charge and commission to dispense the Word as well as other Ordinances as the Priests and Levites had under the law proved Isa 66. 21. And I will also take of them for Priests and for Levites saith the Lord. Mat. 28. 34. Wherefore behold I send unto you Prophets and wise men and scribes and some of them ye shall kill and crucifie and some of them shall ye scourge in your Synagogues and persecute them from City to City Where our Saviour intituleth the Officers of the New Testament whom he will send forth by the same names of the teachers of the Old Which Propositions prove that therefore the duty being of a moral nature it followeth by just consequence that the publick reading of the Scriptures belongeth to the Pastors Office To feed the flock by preaching of the Word according to which he is to teach convince reprove exhort and comfort 1 Tim. 3. 2. A Bishop then must be blameless the husband of one wise vigilant sober of good behaviour given to hospitality apt to teach 2 Tim. 3. 16 17. v. 16. All scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for Doctrine for Reproof for Correction for Instruction in righteousness v. 17. That the man of God may be perfect throughly furnished unto all good works Tit. 1. 9. Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught that he may be able by sound Doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers To Catechise which is a plain laying down the Principles of the Oracles of God Or of the Doctrine of Christ and is a part of preaching Heb. 5. 12. For when for the time ye ought to be teachers ye have need that one teach you again which be the first Principles of the Oracles of God and are become such as have need of milk and not of strong meat To dispense other Divine Misteries 1 Cor. 4. 1 2. v. 1. Let a man so account of us as of the Ministers of Christ and stewards of the misteries of God v. 2. Moreover it is required in stewards that a man be found faithful To administer the Sacraments Mat. 28. 19 20. v. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy Ghost v. 20. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you and lo I am with you alway even unto the end of the world Amen Mar. 16. 15 16. v. 15. And he said unto them Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel unto every creature v. 16. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved but he that believeth not shall be damned 1 Cor. 11. 23 24 25. v. 23. For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread v. 24. 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 v. 25. 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 ye as oft as ye drink it in remembrance of me Compared with 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 To bless the people from God Numb 6. 23. 24 25 26. v. 23. Speak unto Aaron and unto his sons saying On this wise ye shall bless the children of Israel saying unto them v. 24. The Lord bless thee and keep thee v. 25. The Lord make his face to shire upon thee v. 26. The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee and give thee peace Compared with Rev. 1. 4 5. v. 4. John to the seven Churches which are in Asia grace be unto you and peace from him which is and which was and which is to come and from the seven spirits which are before his throne v. 5. And from Jesus Christ who is the faithful witness and the first begotten of the dead and the prince of the Kings of the earth unto him that loved us and washed us from our sins in his own blood Where the same blessings and persons from whom they come are expresly mentioned Isa 66. 21. And I will also take of them for Priests and for Levites saith the Lord. Here under the names of the Priests and Levites to be continued under the Gospel are meant Evangelical Pastors who therefore are by office to bless the people Deut. 10. 8. At that time the Lord separated the tribe of Levi to bear the ark of the Covenant of the Lord to stand before the Lord to minister unto him and to bless in his name unto this day 2 Cor. 13 14. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the communion of the Holy Ghost be with you all Amen Eph. 1. 2. Grace be to you and peace from God our Father and from the Lord Jesus Christ To take care of the poor Act. 11. 30. Which also they did and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul Act. 4. 34 35 36 37. v. 34. Neither was there any among you that lacked for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them and brought the prises of the things that were sold v. 35. And laid them down at the Apostles feet and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need v. 36. And Joses who by the Apostles was surnamed Barnabas which is being interpreted the son of conselation a Levite and of the country of Ciprus v. 37. Having land sold it and brought the money and laid it at the Apostles feet Act. 6 2 3 4. v. 2. Then the twelve called the multitude of the Disciples unto them and said It is not reason that we should leave the word of God and serve Tables v. 3. Wherefore brethren look you out among you seven men of honest report full of the Holy Ghost and wisdome whom ye may appoint over this business v. 4. But we will give our selves continually to prayer and