of the Remembrance of Christ our spiritual Nourishment and growth in Grace the confirming of the Covenant of Grace the testifying of our Thankfulness to Christ and the strengthning of our Union to him and Communion with him and with one another Q. 346. Wherein else A. 3. In using this Ordinance according to Christ's Institution in order to these Ends that is using the same Elements of Bread and Wine and the same Words and Actions about them and to the same significations and ends that Christ used them for Q. 347. Wherein else A. 4. In holy Meditations on the Elements Words and Actions that are used in the Celebration or Administration of this holy Ordinance and especially on Christ himself who is signified and represented by them Prov. 23.1 John 1.29 Q. 348. What good Meditations may our Souls raise from these A. 1. When we see Bread and Wine prepared for this Ordinance we should meditate on the Resemblance that there is between them and the Body and Blood of Christ signified by them Q. 349. How doth Bread resemble the Body of Christ A. In three things especially 1. As Corn is prepared by grinding moulding and baking to make it Bread for our Bodies so Christ was prepared by exquisite Sufferings to be Bread for our Souls Isa 53.10 Q. 350. How else A. As Bread is the Staff and strength of our Natural Life so is Christ the Staff and Strength of our spiritual Life Psal â—05 16 19.14 Q. 351. How else A. 3. As Bread is but one Body tho' it be made up of many Grains so Christ mystical that is the Church is but one Body though made up of many Members 1 Cor. 12.12 Q. 352. How doth the Wine resemble the Blood of Christ A. In three things especially 1. As Wine quencheth the Thirst of the Body so doth the Blood of Christ quench the Thirst of the Soul John 6.35 Q. 353. How else A. 2. As Wine is of a cheering Nature making the Heart glad so the Blood of Christ applied by Faith cheers and makes glad the Souls of mournful sinners Psal 104.15 Q. 354. What else A. 3. As Wine is of a purging and cleansing quality so the Blood of Christ doth meritoriously purge and cleanse us from sin Heb. 9.13 14. 1 John 1.7 Q. 355. What other Meditation may we raise from this Ordinance A. When we see the Bread and Wine blessed sanctified or set apart from a common to an holy use by the Ministers pronouncing the words of Institution and Prayer we should meditate on God the Father his sanctifying and setting apart his Son the Lord Jesus Christ from all Eternity to be our Redeemer Isa 42.1 Q. 356. What other Meditation A. When we see the Bread broken we should meditate on the Breaking of Christ's sacred Body on the Cross and all the Sufferings Pains and Torments which he endured both in Soul and Body for our sakes on the heinous nature of our sins that could not be done away but by the shedding of Christ's Blood and the impartial Justice of God the Father in punishing his only begotten Son when he stood as our Surety Q 357. What other Meditation A. When we see the Minister offering and giving Bread and Wine to us we should meditate on the infinite Love of God the Father in Giving Christ and of Christ in Giving himself to be a Sacrifice for us and of the Spirit in revealing and applying Christ to us Q. 258. What other Meditation A. When we Receive the Bread and Wine from the hand of the Minister with the hand of our Bodies and eat and drink them with our Mouths we should meditate on the spiritual Receiving of the Body and Blood of Christ and feeding on him by Faith in our Souls Q. 359. What other Meditation A. We should meditate on the precious Benefits that redound to true Believers by a right receiving of Christ in this holy Ordinance which are Redemption from all Enemies and Evils Reconciliation to God Pardon of Sin Justification Adoption Sanctification Victory over our Souls Adversaries Increase of Grace and a Title to Glory Q. 360. Wherein else doth this gracious disposition of Soul consist A. 5. In a lively acting or exercising of saving Graces and using our bodily senses of seeing touching and tasting to help our spiritual Senses and Graces in their Actings John 20.27 Q. 361. What Graces should we exercise in partaking of this Ordinance A. We should especially exercise these four Faith Repentance Love and Joy Q. 362. How is Faith to be exercised in it A. Faith should be exercised as the Eye of the Soul to discern Christ in this Ordinance as the hand of the Soul to Receive him and as the Mouth of the Soul to feed upon him or apply him with all his Benefits to each Believer in particular Job 20.28 Gal. 2.20 Q. 363. How is Repentance to be exercâ—sed A. Repentance should then be exercised in remembring our sins confessing them with shame and sorrow hating of them judging and condemning our selves for them and turning from them unto God in Christ Isa 53.4 5.6 Zech. 12.10 11. Q. 364. How is Love to God then to be exercised A. Love to God both Father Son and Spirit should then be exercised by the fervent out goings of the Soul to God and to each Person in the God head and by the firm cleaving of the Soul to him as to the chief Good and our All-sufficient Portion Psal 63.8 Acts 11.23 Q. 365. How is Love to other Christians then to be exercised A. Love to other Christians should then be exercised by our cleaving to them in heart as to our Brethren by praying with and for them by forgiving their Trespasses against us and by a readiness to give to those that want according to our Ability and their Necessity Heb. 13.1 2 3. 1 Pet. 2.17 Eph. 4.32 Q. 366. How is Joy then to be exercised A. Joy is then to be exercised in the Soul 's being cheered revived and lifted up in the believing apprehension or assurance of its interest in God as his own God in Christ and Covenant and so in all the Blessings promised in the Covenant of Grace of which this Ordinance is a sign and seal Psal 16.5 Phil. 4.4 1 Pet. 1.8 Rom. 5.2 Q. 367. How is this Ordinance to be elosed up A. It is to be closed up in singing some Spiritual Hymn to the praise of God our Creator Redeemer and Sanctifier Matth. 26.30 Mark 14.26 Of our Duties after partaking Q. 368. What is required of us after partaking of tho Lord's Supper A. Two sorts of Duties some more publick and others more private Q. 369. What are the publick Duties A. Such as these 1. A solemn and hearty Thanksgiving to God for his love in giving Christ for Christ's love in giving himself and for the love of the holy Spirit in revealing Christ to us and in us with all the blessed Fruits of this Love As also for the Covenant of
I subjoyn another Thâ—â— all the Pastors of Churches may fully and faithfully obey that Precept of the Chief Shepherd John 21.15 16. requiring them to feed his Lambs as well as his Sheep I shall close with a word or two of Counsel Reader if thou art yet weak in spiritual Knowledge and willing to be instructed that thou mayst be made wise to Salvation let me beseech thee to follow this faithful Advice 1. Labour for a distinct and methodical Knowledge of the great Foundation-Truths of the Christian Religion those first Principles of the Oracles of God drawn up to thine hand in many more general Catechisms especially I recommend to thy use that excellent Catechism of the Assembly of Divines both shorter and larger a little Labour will commit the lesser to thy memory and read the other with diligence to explain that with Mr. Lyes Mr. Doolittles and Mr. Vincents Explanations The Knowledge of these Truths will prepare thee to read the holy Scriptures and hear Sermons with Vnderstanding and Profit Next I offer thee the serious perusal of this Sacramental Catechism in the composure of which I have purposely left out several Questions very proper to have been inserted because they are already answered in the Assemblies Catechism Say not thou art too old to learn a Catechism if ignorant unless thou thinkest thy self also too old to go to Heaven and so too old to learn the way thither Be not ashamed of using the means to get Knowledge but be â—shamed of thy Ignorance and blush to bear a Child of Seven years old that hath been well catechised give a better account of the Christian Faith than many of 30 40 or of 50 years of Age can do 2. Pray earnestly and daily for the inward teachings of God's holy Spirit in and with the outward teachings of the Word without this tho thoâ— may'st fill thy Head with the Notions of Truth ye thou wilt never feel the saving Impressions of theâ— on thy heart but remain a stranger to the life anâ— power of Godliness Read those precious promises and humbly plead them in prayer Prov. 1.23 Isaâ— 59.21 Luk. 11.13 3. And lastly Believe the Truths which thou haâ—â—â—earnt and live according to the Rule of them Le Knowledge and Practice as an holy Taine gâ—â—â—nd in hand and stilt keep pace each with other â—â—â—h of them are required as necessary qualification to entitle thee to true happiness John 13 17. O dâ— not aim at any thing short of that The Experimental and Practical Christian will be found to be the wisest and best in the great discriminating Day Thaâ— thou may'st be such an one and that thy Meditation may contribute somewhat thereto is the sincere anâ— fervent Prayer of Decemb. 19. 1691. Thine and the Churche in Christ George Day A SACRAMENTAL Catechism Quest 1. WHat is a Sacarment in general Answ A Sacrament is an holy Ordinance of Divine Institution annexed to the Covenants which God hath made with Men wherein by outward and sensible signs the Promises of the Covenant are represented sealed and applied to God's Covenant-people and they are bound to obey him Gen. 17.10 Rom. 4.11 Q. 2. Are these Ordinances call'd by the name of Sacraments in the holy Scriptures A. No. Yet seeing it is a word very fit to signifie the thing to which it is applied it may lawfully be used Q. 3. What is the original and proper signification of the word Sacrament A. As it was used of old in a civil sense it signified an Oath taken in War by Souldiers to their General whereby they were bound to perform the Duties of that Relation Q. 4. Why are the Seals of God's Covenants called Sacraments A. Because by our receiving them we are bound as it were by an Oath to perform the Duties of God's Covenant-people Rom. 6.3 4 5. Q. 5. What are the parts of a Sacrament A. Two The one is an outward visible sign or thing signifying which may be seen by the Eye of the Body as Water in Baptism and Bread and Wine in the Lord's Supper The other is the inward and spiritual grace or thing signified which can only be seen by the Eye of the Soul or by Faith and that is Christ with all his saving Benefits Matth. 3.11 1 Pet. 3.21 Rom. 2.28 29. Q. 6. Do all those who receive the outward signs receive the inward grace also A. No. For wicked and graceless persons may receive the outward signs but not the inward grace with them none but true believers receive them both Q. 7. What is a Covenant in the general A. A Covenant is a solemn Contract or Agreement between several persons two at the least wherein they do mutually bind themselves each to other in certain Articles to both their Contents and usually confirmed by signs and seals Gen. 21.27 1 Sam. 18 3. Q 8. Hath God ever made a Covenant with Man A. Yes Tho God be infinitely above Man yet he hath been pleased through condescending grace to deal with Man in this familiar way of Covenanting as a Man with his Friend Gen. 15.18 Q. 9. VVhat Covenants hath God made with Man A. Two especially The first called the Covenant of Works The second The Covenant of Grace Gal. 4.23 24. Q. 10. What is the Covenant of Works A. That Covenant which God made with our first Parents Adam and Eve in the estate of Innocence and in them with all their Children wherein God promised perfect happiness to them upon Condition of their perfect Obedience to him and threatned them with Death on their Disobedience Gen. 2.16 17. Gal. 3.12 Q. 11. Why is this called the Covenant of Works A. Because it required the Works of Man's Obedience to the whole Law of God as the Condition of his Life and Happiness Lev. 18.5 Q. 12. Had our first Parents sufficient strength to perform that Condition and keep that Covenant with God A. Yes Our first Parents being created upright and perfect had sufficient power to perform perfect Obedience to the Law of God and so to keep his Covenant Eccl. 7.29 Q. 13. Did our first Parents keep their Covenant with God A. No. Our first Parents brake their Covenant with God by complying with the Temptation of Satan in eating the forbidden Fruit and thereby brought themselves and all the Children descending from them by ordinary Generation into an estate of sin and misery Gen. 3. begin Rom. 5.12 Q. 14. Doth God suffer Adam and all his Children to perish in their sinful and miserable state A. No. God did of his own free grace from all Eternity elect some of fall'n Mankind to everlasting life and gave them to Jesus Christ that they might be recoveted and saved by him Eph. 1.4 Q. 15. Did the Lord Jesus Christ then undertake to be a Saviour to them A. Yes There was an Eternal Compact or Agreement between God the Father and God the Son which is commonly called the Covenant of Redemption wherein God the Father gave the
as in all other Gospel-Ordinances but not corporally or carnally but spiritually and so he is to be fed upon not by the Mouth of the Body but of the Soul that is to be received applied to the Soul by Faith John 6.56 Eph. 3.17 Q. 82. What are the signifying Actions to be used in this Ordinance A. 1. The Actions to be used by the Minister are Taking Blessing Breaking Giving the Bread to the Communicants and Taking giving Thanks and giving the Cup also to them 2. The Actions of the Communicants are Taking and Partaking or Eating the Bread and Drinking the Wine Matt. 26.26 27 28. Q. 83. What is signified by the Ministers taking the Bread and Wine when he cometh to the Table A. It signifieth God the Fathers taking or choosing and designing Christ from all Eternity to be Man's Redeemer Isa 42.1 Q. 84. What is signified by the Ministers Blessing the Elements or giving Thanks A. It signifieth the setting of them apart from a common to an holy use and is to be performed by declaring the words of Institution and by praying to God for a blessing on this Ordinance ioyned with giving Thanks unto God for Jesus Christ and for all his benefits Q 85. What is signified by the Breaking of the Bread A. It signifieth all the Sufferings of Christ especially the breaking of his Body shedding of his Blood upon the Cross Q. 86. What is signified by the Ministers giving the Bread and Wine to the Communicants A. It signifieth God the Fathers giving Christ as a Saviour and Christ's giving himself with all his benefits to true Believers John 3.16 Q. 87. What is signified by the Communicants taking the Bread and Wine A. It signifieth their thankful accepting and receiving of Christ to be their Saviour with all his benefits by Faith John 1.12 Q. 88. What is signified by the Communicants eating the Bread and drinking the Wine A. It signifieth their applying of Christ with all his benefits by Faith unto their own Souls in particular that each Believer may believingly say of Christ as Thomas My Lord and my God John 20.28 Q. 89. For what holy Ends is the Lord's Supper to be used A. For such holy Ends as these 1. For the preserving of the Remembrance of Christ and his matchless Love in dying for Sinners this Ordinance being a lively shewing forth of his Death Luke 22.19 1 Cor. 11.24 25 26. Gal. 3 1â— Q 90. What other End A. 2. For the spiritual nourishing and strengthning of the inward Man or oâ— grace in the Heart as Faith Repentance Love Hope c For this Reason it seems to be call'd a Supper being a spiritual Meal for Souls in which Christ himself is our spiritual Food 1 Cor. 11.20 Q 91. What other End A. 3. For the fealing and confirming the New Covenant of Grace or the New Testament For as the last Will or Testament of a Man is confirmed and comes in force by the Death of the Testator or of him that made it so the Death of Christ which is represented in this Ordinance confirms the New Covenant as being Christ's last Will and Testament Heb. 9.15 16 17. Q. 93. For what other A. 4. For the testifying of Believers thankfulness to Christ for his Love to them in dying for them Therefore it is sometimes call'd the Eucharist or the Thanksgiving and the Cup is call'd the Cup of blessing 1 Cor. 10.16 Q 93. For what other A. 5. For the strengthning and increase of believers Union to and communion with Christ and him crucified and also with one another as Fellow-Members of the same Mystical Body of Christ his Church for which cause it is also call'd the Communion 1 Cor 10.16 17. Q. 94. Is it sufficient to partake of the Lord's Supper as of Baptism only once A. No. Believers should often partake of this Ordinance if it may be because of their constant need of it in order to the obtaining of the holy Ends thereof 1 Cor. 11.26 Q. 95. To whom is the Lord's Supper to be administred A. The Lord's Supper is to be administred only to such as have a Gospel-right to it and a Gospel fitness or preparedness for it Q. 96. What is a Gospel-right to this Ordinance A. There is a twofold Gospel-right 1. Outward with Reference to the Church 2. Inward with Reference to God Q. 97. Who have an outward Right with Reference to the Church A. All such have an outward and visible Right to the Lord's Supper who being baptized and grown Persons do make a credible Profession of their being in Covenant with God or of their Faith in Christ and Obedience to him Acts 8.36 37 38. Q. 98. When is their Profession to be accounted credible or worthy to be believed A. When they have a competent measure of Gospel-knowledge seriously and understandingly own and consent to their Covenant with God in baptism and live a religious and unblameable Life according to Gospel-Rule Phil. 1.27 Q. 99. Who may examine and judge of this outward and visible Right A. That particular Church of Christ with which they desire to joyn and walk in full Communion especially the Pastor thereof 1 Pet. 5.2 Heb. 13.17 Q. 100. Who then are to be kept off from this Ordinance A. All such as are grosly ignorant of the Doctrine of Christ or openly vicious and scandalous in their Lives Q. 101. Who are to be accounted grosly ignorant A. All such as understand not the Principles of the Christian Religion the Nature of the New Birth or a Work of Grace upon their Heart nor the Nature Use and Ends of this holy Ordinance 1 Cor. 15.34 Q. 102. Why should such ignorant persons be kept off from this Ordinance A. Because they want an Eye to discern the Lord's Body an hand to receive him and a Mouth to feed upon him and therefore if they should partake of this Ordinance they would receive no benefit but much hurt by it Q. 103. Who are to be accounted openly vicious or scandalous A. All such as live in any open or known course of sin impenitently and by their Words or Actions give just cause of offence to those that fear God 1 Cor. 5.11 Q. 104. Why should such vicious persons be kept off A. Because they in presuming to touch such holy things with unholy hands and hearts would dishonour provoke God pollute and profane his Ordinance grieve the Godly contract the guilt of Christ's Blood and eat and drink Judgment to themselves 1 Cor. 11.27 29. Matth. 7.26 Q. 105. But may not the Lord's Supper be administred to vicious persons in order to their Conversion A. No. For we do not find that Christ appointed this Ordinance to convert sinners but to confirm and comfort Saints it is not to work grace where it is wanting but to increase and strengthen grace where it is Q. 106. Who have an inward invisible Right to this Ordinance A. All such who are indeed Heart-covenanters with God or
do believe in Christ with their hearts and obey him in their lives Q. 107. Who are Heart-covenanters with God A. Those who truly repent of their sins against God Renounce the World the Flesh and the Devil and take God the Father the Son and the Holy Ghost for their only God and chief Good their Father Redeemer and Sanctifier and give up themselves to fear love and obey him according to his Word and this unto the Death Isa 44.5 and 56.4 Q. 108. How may we know that we are in Covenant with God A. We may know it by these three things 1. By our sincere consenting to the Covenant or choosing the living and true God to be our God and giving up our selves to be his People Q. 109. How else A. 2. By our holy care to keep Covenant with God and to perform the Duties which he requireth of us therein Q. 110. How else A. 3. By God's gracious performance of the Promises of his Covenant to our Souls in giving us the Saving Blessings promised to his Covenant-People Q. 111. What are the Blessings which God hath promised in the Covenant of Grace A. God hath promised grace and glory all that is needful and good both temporal spiritual and eternal Blessings Psal 84.11 1 Tim. 4.8 Q. 112. What he the Spiritual Blessings that God hath promised to them in this life A. These especially God hath promised to give them 1. His Holy Spirit to teach sanctifie assist guide and comfort them Ezek. 36.27 John 14.16 17 26. Q. 113. What else A. The enlightning of their Minds with Saving Knowledge Isa 54.13 Heb. 8.11 Q. 114. What else A. The renewing of their Wills or Hearts Ezek. 36.26 and 11.19 20. Q. 115. What else A. The putting of his Law in their inward Parts and writing it in their hearts Heb. 8.10 Q. 116. What else A. The putting his Fear in their hearts to keep them from departing from him Jer. 32.40 Q. 117. What else A. The Justification of their Persons pardoning their Sins and Accepting them as Righteous in Christ Isa 53.11 Jer. 31.34 Rom. 3.24 25 26. Q. 118. What else A. The Sanctification of their Natures Ezek. 36.25 Q. 119. What else A. Adoption to be the Children of God 2 Cor. 6.18 Q. 120. How may we know whether we have the Spirit of God or no A. We may know it by the Operations Fruits or Effects of the Spirit in us which are such as these Light Life Love Liberty Joy Peace Long-suffering Gentleness Goodness Faith Repentance Hope Meekness and Temperance 2 Cor. 4.6 2 Cor. 3.6 Gal. 2.20 and 5.22 23. Q. 121. How may we know whether we have a new Heart A. 1. By the uprightness singleness and sensibleness or tenderness of our hearts Psal 7.10 Ezek. 11.19 2. By the Conformity of our Hearts to the Law of God when it is the bent desire delight of our Hearts to do the Will of God and please him in every thing Psal 119.6 8 16. Acts 13.22 Psal 40.8 Q. 122. Who must judge of this inward invisible Right to the Lord's Supper A. Every particular Christian ought to examine and judge of his own inward and invisible Right by the help of God's Spirit and the Rule of his Word 1 Cor. 11.28 1 Cor. 2.11 12. Q 123. Wâ—at is a Gospel-fitness or preparedness for this Ordinance A. There is a twofold Gospel fitness for it 1. A fitness of our State or Condition 2. A fitness of our Frame or Disposition Both these must be had to make us worthy Guess at this Holy Table of the Lord. Q. 124. Who are in a fit State or Condition for this Ordinance A. All such and only such as are in a state of Saving Grace or the Childern of God by Regeneration and so qualified with those Graces that are needful and useful for a right receiving of this Ordinance and a spiritual profiting by it 2 Cor. 13.5 Q. 125. What is Saving-Grace A. Saving Grace is a Principle of Spiritual Life wrought in the Hearts of God's Elect by the Holy Spirit and usually by the Ministry of the Word whereby they are effectually inclined and enabled and do sincerely endeavour to obey the whole revealed Will of God in Heart Lip and Life 2 Pet. 1.4 Eph. 4.18 Col. 3.16 Heb. 12.28 John 17.17 Rom. 15.16 1 Cor. 4.15 Heb. 13.12 Q. 126. How may we know that we have Saving-Grace A. We may know it by the good Fruits and Effects of it which are especially these two 1. Saving Grace turns the Heart from all sin and sets it against sin so that such a Man doth not only forbear sin but hates it and seeks the utter destruction of it in his Heart and Life by all good means Ezek. 18.30 Psal 119.104 Matth. 26.41 Col. 3.5 2. Saving Grace turns the Heart unto God and Godliness strongly and constantly inclines it to that which is good and makes us fit and ready to and active in good Works enables us cheerfully to obey the Will of God's Precept and patiently to submit to the Will of his Providence Eph. 2.10 Isa 55.7 Psal 119 112. Tit. 3.1 Acts 21.13 Tit. 2.14 Q. 127. What are the particular Graces or gracious Qualifications that fits us for a worthy partaking of the Lord's Supper A. They are especially these seven Knowledge Faith Repentance Love New Obedience Thankfulness Holy Desire or a Spiritual Appetite to this Ordinance 128. What Knowledge should we have A. A competent measure of Knowledge of the Fundamental or Principal Truths of the Christian Religion or of such things as are revealed in the holy Scriptures necessary to make us wise unto Salvation Prov. 19.2 Eph. 1.17 Col. 1.9 3.10 Q. 129. What are the Truths that we should especially know A. Some Truths concerning God some concerning Man some concerning the Covenant between God and Man and some concerning the Sacraments or Seals of the Covenant Q 130. What should we know concerning God A. We should know something concerning his Essence or Nature something concerning his Will and something concerning his Worship Q. 131. What should we know concerning the Essence or Nature of God A. These four things 1. That God is or that there is a God Heb. 11.6 Q. 132. What else A. 2. That God is One or that there is only One true God and no more Deut. 6.4 Jer. 10.10 Q. 133. What else A. That this One God subsisteth in three distinct Persons called by distinct Names in Scripture The Father the Son and the Holy Ghost or Spirit Matth. 28.19 1 Joh. 5.7 Q. 134. What else A. 4. That this One God is a most pure invisible Spirit or a Being that cannot be seen by our Eyes John 4.24 1 Tim. 1.17 and 6.16 Q. 135. By What hath God made himself known to us A. God hath made himself known to us two ways 1. By his written Word 2. By his Works Q. 136. What doth the Word make known to us concerning the Nature of God A. The Word
A. We should have a competent Knowledge of the Divine Institution Spiritual Nature holy use and ends of them But these things have been already opened Thus much of Knowledge Q 189. What is that Faith which a worthy Partaker of the Lord's Supper should have A. A Saving Faith in the Lord Jesus Christ Q. 190. What is a Saving Faith in Christ A. Saving Faith in Christ is a special Gift of God to his Elect whereby they knowing and assenting to the Truth of God's Record touching Christ in the Word do Receive the Lord Jesus Christ for their only Saviour and trust in him for Salvation on his own Terms Eph. 2.8 John 17.3 1 John 5.10 11. John 1.12 Eph. 1.12 Luke 9.23 Q. 191. Why is Faith needful to a worthy partaking of this Ordinance A. Because Faith must be the Eye of the Soul to see Christ in it the Hand of the Soul to Receive the Spiritual Mouth and Stomach to feed upon him and digest him as our Spiritual Food for our Nourishment and Growth in Grace Q. 192. What is that Repentance a worthy Partaker should have A. True Repentance is a special Gift of God to his Elect arising from a clear sight and deep sense of sin and a knowledge and belief of the Mercy of God in Christ whereby they do both confess their sins to God with shame and sorrow for them and hatred of them and turn from them unto God both in Heart and Life Acts 11.11 5.31 2.37 Acts 3.19 26. Prov. 28.13 Joel 2.12 13. Psal 119.104 Q. 193. Why is Repentance needful to a worthy partaking of this Ordinance A. Because in this Ordinance we come to renew our Covenant with God and to receive a sealed Pardon of our sins which none can do but true Penitents Q. 194. VVhat is that Love a worthy Partaker should have A. Holy Love is a Spiritual Affection whereby the Souls of God's People are carried out toward God and toward one another and toward all that is good Matth. 27.37.39 John 13.34 1 John 2.15 2 Cor. 5.14 Rom. 15.30 2 Thess 2.10 Q. 195. Ought we not also to Love our very Enemies and such as hate us A. Yes Christ hath commanded us to Love our Enemies with a Love of Good-will so as to forbear revenging our selves on them and to desire and endeavour their good though not with a Love of Delight Matth. 5.44 45. Rom. 12.19 20. Q. 196. VVhy is love needful to a worthy partaking of this Ordinance A. Because this Ordinance is a Love-feast and a Love token between Christ his Church in which they do as it were seal their Affections each to other appointed to keep in memory Christ's Love to Believers and to encrease their Love to him and the want of this Love brings Men under the severest Curse Rev. 1.5 1 Cor. 11.24 1 Cor. 16.22 Q. 197. VVhat is that New Obedience that is needful to a worthy partaking of this Ordinance A. New Obedience is an unfeigned desire and purpose of the Soul seconded with a careful endeavour of Life in and by the grace and strength of Christ to yeild sinâ—ere constant universal Obedience to â—he whole revealed Mind Will of God â—â—yned with an humiliation for our Failings and Defects a desire to be found in the Righteousness of Christ and to be accepted of God only in for through the perfect Obedience of Christ Psal 119.5 8 30 31 32. Phil. 4.13 Psal 119.6 104 112. 2 Chron. 30.18 19. Phil. 3.9 Q. 198. Why is it called New Obedience A. Because 't is only perform'd by New Creatures that is by such as are renewed after the Image of God and by new strength from Christ and because it is required by the New Testament or Covenant 2 Cor. 5.17 Rom. 12.2 Phil. 4.13 Q. 199. Why is this New Obedience needful to a worthy partaking of this Ordinance A. Because this Ordinance being a Seal of the New Covenant binds us to this New Obedience so that without it our partaking of this Ordinance would be but dissembling and because without this Obedience all our Profession of Religion and outward Performances will be rejected of God as vain and hypoâ—ritical and abominable Ezech. 11.19 23. Jer. 31.33 1. Sam. 15.22 Tit. 1.16 Q. 200. What is that Thankfulness that is needful to a worthy partaking of this Ordinance A. Thankfulness is a due and heart-affecting sense of the Love of God in giving Christ to us of the Love of Christ in giving himself for us and of the Love of the Spirit in revealing Christ in us with a cheerful acknowledgment of the same with our Lips and Lives John 3.16 Gal. 2.20 2 Cor. 9 1â— 1 Tim. 1.17 Rom. 15.13 Eph. 1.17 Q. 201. What should Believers be especially thankful for at this Ordinance A. They should be especially thankful for the Lord Jesus Christ and for the Covenant of Grace together with all the Blessings and Benefits given in and with them to Believers Eph. 1.3 2 Cor. 9.15 Q. 202. Why is this Thankfulness needful to a worthy partaking of this Ordinance A. Because Christ himself gave Thanks to God in the Institution of this Ordinance and because the very matter use and ends of this Ordinance engaged us to Thankfulness in that it representeth sealeth and applieth Jesus Christ to us as the Spiritual Food of our Souls 1 Cor. 11.24 Deut. 8.10 1 Thess 5.18 Q 203. What is that holy Desire or spiritual Appetite that is needful to a worthy partaking of this Ordinance A. Holy Desire is a spiritual hungering and thirsting after the Lord Jesus Christ as the Food of our Souls for our Nourishment and Growth in Grace Isa 55.1 Hagg. 2.7 Isa 26.8 9. Matth. 5.6 Q. 204. Why is this holy Desire or Appetite needful to a worthy partaking of this Ordinance A. Because this Ordinance being a Spiritual Feast or Supper cannot profit us without a spiritual hunger or thirst after the Provisions set before us therein neither shall we taste any spiritual sweetness in it nor get Refreshment and Nourishment by it for this is promised only to those who have this Appetite Matth. 5.6 Luke 1.52 Q. 205. Who are in a fit frame or disposition for this Ordinance A. Such who being truly gracious have some Scripture-Evidence thereof and have got their Souls into a serious humble and holy disposition to draw near to God and to hold Communion with him James 4.8 9 10. Q. 206. How may we get into a new frame or disposition A. We may get into a sit frame or disposition of Spirit for this holy Ordinance 1. By examining our selves 2. By quickning and stirring up our Graces 3. 〈◊〉 praying for Spiritual Blessings 4. By hoping for them and expecting of them from God through Christ Q. 207. Concerning what should we examine our selves A. We should examine our selves both concerning our Sins and concerning our Graces 1 Cor. 11.28 Lam. 3.40 2 Cor. 13.5 28. Q. 208. What should we examine concerning
our Sins A. We should examine both what our Sins are and how they are aggravated by their several Circumstances Jer. 8.6 Q 209. How may we come to know our Sins A. We may come to know our Sins 1. By comparing our Hearts and Lives with the Laws of God which shew us both the Duties we should perform and the sins we should avoid Rom. 3.20 7.7 2. By praying to God to discover our sins to us Job 13.23 Q 210. What should we examine our selves concerning our Graces A. We should examine our selves both touching the Grace we have and touching the Grace we want 2 Cor. 13.5 Q. 211. What should we examine â—â—ching the Grace we have A. We should examine both the truth of our Grace and the growth of it Q. 212. How may we know whether our knowledge of spiritual Truths be a true saving knowledge A. By the Properties Effects and Companions of it in the Soul Q. 213. What be the Properties of it A. It is joyned with an high prizing of this knowledge it self and the things that we know 1 Cor. 2.2 Phil. 3.8 Rom. 7.12 Q. 214. What is another A. It is joyned with an humbling sense of our own Ignorance and Sinfuâ—ness Job 42.5 6. Prov. 30.2 Q. 215. What is another A. It is joyned with a Love to and Delight in the Spiritual Truths known Psal 119.97 Rom. 7.22 Q. 216. What is another A. It is accompanied with earnest Desires and diligent Endeavours after more Spiritual Knowledge Psal 119.33 34 40. Prov. 2.3 4. 2 Pet. 3.18 Q. 217. What is another A. It is accompanied with an Experience or spiritual Sense of those Truths that are to be experienced as of the convincing converting comforting quickning and confirming power of the Word and Spirit of God Phil. 1.9 Psal 34.8 1 Pet. 2.3 Heb. 5.14 Psal 19.7 8. 119.50 Acts 20.32 Q. 218. VVhat is another A. It changeth the Soul into the same Image of Holiness that is in the Word of God 2 Chron. 3.18 Rom. 12.2 Q. 219. VVhat is another A. It is joyned with the practise of known Duties and the forbearing of known sins John 13.17 1 John 2.3 4. Psal 119.100 101. Q. 220. What is another A. It is joyned with a readiness to teach others the knowledge of spiritual things Psal 34.11 John 1.41 45 46. John 4.28 29. Q 221. How may we know whether our Faith be true and saving A. By the manner in which it is wrought by its nature and by its properties or effects Q 222. How is Faith wrought in the Soul A. The Spirit of God ordinarily prepareth the Heart for it by the Law of God and then worketh it by the Gospel Q. 223. How doth the Spirit prepare the heart for Faith by the Law A. These several ways 1. It shews and convinces the Soul of its sinful and miserable Estate by nature John 16.7 Rom. 3.20 2. It humbles the Soul under the serious consideration of its sin and misery 2 Kings 22.19 3. It works in the Soul a despair of getting out of this condition by its own power or the help of any other Creatures Acts 4.12 4. It causeth in the Soul a fear of the wrath of God due to him for sin Gen. 3.10 5. It convinceth the Soul of its need of a Saviour Matth. 9.12 Q. 224. How doth the Spirit of God work Faith by the Gospel A. These several ways 1. It shews to the Soul the Lord Jesus Christ as an All-sufficient and only Saviour provided by God and offered to sinners John 3.16 2. It begets in the Soul an high esteem of this Saviour and earnest desires after him above all other things Cant. 5.10 3. It convinceth the Soul that it is his duty to believe in or close with the Lord Jesus Christ for his Saviour 1 John 3.23 4. It begets in the soul some hope of obtaining an Interest in this Saviour Psal 119.116 5. It works in the Soul a Resolution to seek after this Saviour and to be at any care and cost to obtain an interest in him Cant. 3.2 6. It takes the Soul wholly off from resting on his own Righteousness for Justification before God Phil. 3.9 Q. 225. Wherein doth the Essence or Nature of Faith consist A. It consists in two things 1. In a receiving of an whole Christ or of Christ in all his Offices the Soul being made willing to be taught and ruled as well as reconciled by him John 1.12 2. In â—â—â—sting on Christ or trusting in him aâ—â— for compleat and eternal Salvation Eph. 1.12 Q. 226. What be the Properties Fruits or Effects of Faith A. Faith helps to soften and melt the heart into godly sorrow for sin Zech. 12.10 Isa 53.5 6. Q. 227. What is another property of it A. Faith helps to purifie or cleanse the Heart from the love of sin by arguing against it from the Word of God and by applying the Blood of Christ to the Soul Acts 15.9 John 17.17 Zech. 13.1 Q. 228. What is another A. Faith makes a Man obedient to the Will of God and fruitful in good Works Rom. 16.26 Gal. 5.6 Heb. 11.8 9 17. Q. 229. What is another A. Faith maintains the Christian's spiritual Life as it applies Christ and the Promises to the soul and helps the soul to live in an holy dependance upon him and them Rom. 1.17 Gal. 2.20 Q. 230. What is another A. Faith makes the Word of God profitable and effectual to the Soul 1 Thess 2 13. Rom. 1.16 Heb. 4.2 Q. 231. What is another A. Faith helps the Soul to dâ—â—â— nigh to God in holy Duties with humâ—â—â—oldness and confidence of access to him and acceptance with him through Christ Eph. 3.12 Heb. 4.16 10.22 Q. 232. What is another A. Faith helps the Soul to bear the burden of Troubles and Afflictions and keep it from fainting and sinking under them Psal 27.13 Heb. 11.35 Job 13.15 Q. 233. VVhat is another A. Faith helps the Soul to resist and conquer its spiritual Enemies Sin Satan and the World Acts 26.18 1 Pet. 5.9 Eph. 6.16 1 John 5.4 Heb. 11.24.25 26. Q. 234. VVhat is another A. Faith helps the Soul to spiritual Joy and Peace Rom. 5.1 2 and 15.13 Q. 235. What is another A. Faith is of a growing and persevering Nature encreaseth in Measure and endures to the end 2 Thess 1 3 Rom. 1.17 Luke 22.32 Heb. 10.39 Rev. 2.20 The Examination of Repentance Q. 236. How may we know whether our Repentance be true and saving A. By the manner of its working by its Nature and by its Fruits Effects and Companions Q. 237. In what manner is Repentance wrought A. The Spirit of God ordinarily worketh a sight and sense of sin in the Soul by the Law and an apprehension of the Mercy of God in Christ offered to sinners by the Gospel and herewith powerfully affects the Heart and effectually inclines it to turn from sin unto God Rom. 3.20 7.7 2 Cor. 5.19 Acts 2.37 26.18
of God contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament Isa 8.20 Gal. 6.16 Phil. 1.27 3.16 Q. 291. When do we obey God according to this Rule A. When we obey God in the Faith of Christ in love and thankfulness to Christ in the strength of Christ and in the name of Christ Heb. 11.6 Rom. 14.5.23 2 Cor. 5.14 Phil. 4.13 Joh. 15.3 Col. 3.17 Heb. 13.15 Q. 292. What are the Ends of our Obedience A. The Ends which we should aim at in our Obedience are 1. The Glory of God and of our Lord Jesus Christ and 2. The good of our selves and others 1. Cor. 10.31 Phil. 1.20 1 Tim. 4.8 Phil. 2.4 The Examination of Thankfulness Q. 293. How may we know our Thankfulness to be true A. 1. By our careful observing owning and acknowledging unto God the Blessings and Mercies he bestoweth on us especially spiritual Blessings 1 Chron. 29.13 14 16. Hos 2.8 2 Cor. 9.15 Q. 294. How else A. 2. By our just estimation or valuing the Blessing and Mercies of God according to their worth excellency and usefulness Luke 1.46 48 49. Phil. 3.8 Cant. 3.10 16. Q. 295. How else A. 3. By our dutiful rendring to God according to the Blessings received from him Psal 116.12 2 Chron. 32.15 Q. 296. What should a thankful Soul render unto God A. 1. High Praises of his Wisdom Power Goodness Truth and of all his Perfections as also of all his Blessings Mercies Psal 103.1 2 3 4. 106.1 2. 1 Tim. 1.12 15 16 17. Q. 297. What else A. Hearty Affections Luk. 7.37 38 47. Q. 298. What else A. Humble Obedience devoting both our Selves and Services unto God paying our Vows answering our Covenant Engagements to him living to Christ being willing and ready to dye for him if we be called to it 2 Cor. 8.5 Psal 119.38 116.14 2 Cor. 5 25. Acts 21.13 The Examination of Holy Desires Q. 299. How may we know whether our Desire or Appetite to this Holy Supper be true A. By the Causes Objects Properties Companions and Ends of it Q. 300. What are the Causes of these Desires A. Three 1. A sight and sense of our want of this Ordinance for the spiritual Benefits thereof 2. A sight and sense of the suitableness and fulness of this Ordinance and of Christ in it to supply our want Luke 15.17 Mark 9.24 Col. 1.19 3. A taste or experience of the sweetness of Christ in his Ordinances and of spiritual Refreshment received by them 1 Pet. 2.2 3. Q. 301. What is the Object of this Desire or Appetite A. The Object of it is not only nor chiefly the Supper of the Lord but the Lord of the Supper Psal 42.2 63.1 Q. 302. What are the Properties of this Desire A. It is a strong desire an holy longing after Christ in this Ordinance Psal 73.25 14.2 Q. 303. What is another A. It is an industrious Desire or puts the Soul upon pious Endeavours to obtain the Mercies desired Isa â—6 9 Q. 304. What is another A. It makes the Soul restless and impatient of Delays Cant. 8.14 Q. 305. What is another A. It makes the Soul glad of opportunities to enjoy Christ in his Ordinances and careful to lay hold on them and improve them Psal 122.1 Isa 2.3 Q. 306. What is another A. It makes Christ and his spiritual Benefits sweet and pleasant to the Soul â—ant 2.3 Q. 307. What is another A. It causes the Soul to feed heartily on Christ in his Ordinances by Faith Matth. 5.6 Q. 308. What is another A. It makes the Soul willing to part with any thing to obtain Christ and his Ordinances Luke 5.11 Q. 309. What be the Companions of this Desire A. 1. It is accompanied with an high esteem of Christ and his Ordinances Job 23.12 1 Pet. 2.7 Q. 310. What is another A. 2. It is accompanied with a retention or keeping of our spiritual Food in the Soul a digesting of it and getting spiritual strength by it Eph. 3.17 Cant. 3.4 Q. 311. What is another A. It is accompanied with a readiness and care to lay out our spiritual strength in the Service of Christ from whom we receive it 1 Cor. 15.10 1 Thess 1.3 Q. 312. What is another A. It is accompanied with love to Christ delight content and satisfaction in Christ though we want this Worlds goods 1 Pet. 1.8 Q. 313. What is the End of this Desire A. A gracious Soul desireth this holy Ordinance and Christ in it for his spiritual refreshment nourishment growth in Grace that he may thereby be the better able to serve Christ in his place and relation Psal 119.25 28 32. The Examination of growth in Grace Q. 314. How may we know whether we do grow in Grace A. 1. By the increase of our spiritual Appetites to our spiritual Food or by the increase of our desires after Christ his Word and Ordinances 1 Pet. 2.9 Ps 42 1 and 27.4 â—nd 63.1 2. Q. 315. How else A. 2. By the increase of our spiritual strength to perform Duties endure Afflictions and resist our Souls Enemies Eph. 6.10 2 Tim. 2.1 Fhil 4.13 Ps 138.2 Q. 316. How else A. 3. By the increase of our spiritual stature when we wax bigger and taller in Grace and Holiness 2 Pet. 1.5 6 7 8. Matth. 15.28 James 2.5 Q. 317. How else A. 4. By the change of our voice and visage when we speak more understandingly savourily and experimentally of God and the things of God and look more like our heavenly Father 1 Cor. 13.11 Eph. 4.29 Col. 3.6 Eccles 8.1 Q. 318. How else A 5. By the change of our Carriage and Conversation when we grow more serious humble holy circumspect and heavenly in our lives Matth. 5.16 Gen. 6.9 Eph. 5.15 Q. 319. Why should we examine the growth of our Grace A. 1. Because God giveth us his Ordinances that we may grow in Grace by the use of them and expects our growth should be suitable to the means of Grace which we enjoy Acts 20.32 Eph. 4.11 12 13. Q. 320. What is another Reason of it A. 2. Because the growth of our Grace will be a good Evidence to us of the Truth of it for if we grow we live 2 Thess 1.3 Q. 321. What is another Reason of it A. 3. Because the Discovery of our growth in Grace will quicken and encourage us in our Attendance on the Means of Grace 1 Pet. 2.2 3. 322. What if we find that our Graces do not grow but rather decay A. We ought to be deeply humbled for it before the Lord beg pardon of it search out the causes of it that they may be removed and labour to improve God's Ordinances better for time to come Rev. 2.4 5. 3.1 2. Q. 323. What are the causes of Decays of Grace A. These two especially 1. Neglect of Christ's Ordinances the Means of Grace or using of them negligently and formally or without a due care to improve them
2. Complying with some Temptations to Sin or indulging and nourishing some Corruption in our Souls The Examination of the Grace we want Q. 325. How may we know what Grace we want A. By looking into our Souls and seeing what Grace we have already and whether that be in a growing or decaying state Q. 325. What are the usual wants of gracious Souls A. Such as these They usually want quickning Grace and strengthning Grace to enable them to withstand Temptations mortifie Corruptions perform Duties bear their Burdens the confirmation of the Covenant of Grace and of their mystical Union to Christ their Head the Assurance of the Love of God of an Interest in Christ and his Benefits and of the Pardon of their Sins and Peace with God through Christ Ps 119.159.28.116 35.3 Matth. 9.2 Q. 326. Why should we examine our selves about our spiritual wants before we come to the Lord's Supper A. Because it is needful that we should come with a due sense of our spiritual wants to this and other Ordinances and with Desires and Prayers unto God for the Supplies of them John 5.6 Luke 18.35 36 39 â—0 41. Rev. 3.17 18. Q. 327. What other Duty should be performed to fit us for the Lord's Supper A. We should endeavour to get our Graces quickned and stirred up in us or prepared to be acted and exercised on their proper Objects 2 Tim. 1.6 Q 328. Why should our Graces be quickned and stirred up before this Ordinance A. Because our Graces are to be acted and exercised in partaking of this holy Ordinance and so need quickning to it Q. 329. How may our knowledge be quickned A. 1. By labouring for a more clear distinct and full Knowledge of spiritual things 2. By meditating on those spiritual things that we do know their Excellency Necessity and Usefulness to us Q. 330. How may Faith be quickned A. 1. By feeding on Christ in a Promise and meditating on the freeness fulness firmness and sweetness of the Promises 2. By considering believing Christ's gracious Invitations and assurance of refreshment and benefit to those that come to him in his own way Matt. 11.28 John 7.37 Q. 331. How may Repentance be quickned A. By searching out our special Sins since the last Sacrament confessing them to God with shame and sorrow of heart judging and condemning our selves for them and begging pardon of them and power against them through Grace for time to come Prov. 28.13 James 4.9.10 Psal 51.1 2 c. Q. 332. How may our Love to God Father Son and Spirit be quickned A. By meditating on the infinite Love of God the Father in giving Christ the Love of Christ in giving himself to dye for us and the Love of the Holy Spirit in revealing Christ to us and in us John 3.19 Gal. 2.20 Rom. 15.30 Q. 333. How may our Love to other Christians be quickned A. 1. By remembring the New Command of Christ requiring it 2. By considering our near and spiritual Relation to them as being our Brethren and Fellow-members of Christ's Mystical Body 3. By beholding the Image of God upon them John 13.34 Hebr. 13.1 1 Cor. 15.49 1 John 5.1 Q. 334. How may Love to our Enemies be quickned A. 1. By considering the Command of Christ requiring it 2. By considering the Example of Christ who loved us when we were his Enemies so as to dye for us Mat. 5.44 Gal. 2.20 Rom. 5.8.10 Q. 335. How may our Obedience be quickned A. 1. By considering the Holiness Justice and goodness of Christ's Commands 2. By considering the Blessings promised to the Obedient and the Punishments threatned to the disobedient Rom. 7.12 Job 36.11 12. Jer. 7.23 Q. 336. How may our Thankfulness to God be quickned A. 1. By considering the many great and rich Blessings which he hath bestowed on us in the Covenant of Grace And 2. Our own great unworthiness of the least of them 1 Cor. 3.22 Rom. 8.32 1 Cor. 2.9 Gen. 32.10 Eph. 3.8 Q. 337. How may our holy Desires or spiritual Appetite be quickned A. By considering our want of spiritual Food and of refreshment and Nourishment by it 2. By considering the sweetness suitableness and sufficiency of the spiritual Provisions which Christ hath made for us in this Ordinance 3. By considering the Promises which God hath made to refresh and satisfie hungry and thirsty Souls Psal 40.17 John 6.55.56 Psal 81.10 107.9 Q. 338. What other Duty should be performed to fit us for the Lord's Supper A. We should solemnly seek the Lord by Prayer 1. For the pardon of former Neglects of this Ordinance and sinful Failings in our partaking of it and of present unfitness for it 2. For the holy Preparation of our Hearts for this Ordinance Communion with God in it and Communications of Grace and spiritual Nourishment from him by it 2 Chron. 30.18 19 20. Prov. 16.1 Q. 339. Why should we thus solemnly seek the Lord before this Ordinance A. 1. Because it is needful both to sanctifie our selves for this Ordinance and to have this Ordinance sanctified to us for Prayer is the means to both 1 Sam. 16.5 1 Tim. 4.5 2. Because the spiritual Benefit of this and all Ordinances comes alone from God which is to be obtained by Prayer James 1.17 Matth. 7.7 Q. 340. What other Duty should be performed to fit us for the Lord's Supper A. We should hope for and expect God's gracious Answer to our Prayers in his meeting and blessing us in this Ordinance Ps 42.5 119.166 62.5 Q. 341. What ground have we for this hope A. God's holy Word wherein he hath freely promised to meet and bless his People in his Ordinance Exod. 20.24 Matth. 18.24 Psal 130.5 Of our Duties in partaking Q. 342. What is required of us in partaking of the Lord's Supper A. Two things especially 1. A sober and reverent behaviour of the Body 2. A serious and gracious disposition of the Soul Rom. 12 1. 1 Cor. 6.20 Q. 343. What gesture of Body should we use in the Act of Receiving standing sitting or kneeling A. Sitting seems to be the most proper Gesture of the Body in the Act of Receiving as being most agreeable to the Example of Christ and his Apostles who sate or sate-leaning which was then the Table-gesture amongst the Jews But Christians should not rigidly impose any gesture on each other nor uncharitably Censure each other for difference of Perswasion or Practice in this or such like Circumstances if a due Reverence be observed Matth. 26.20 Luke 14.18 22. Rom. 14.2 5 23 19. 1 Cor. 14.40 Q. 344. Wherein consists the gracious disposition of the Soul in partaking of this Ordinance A. 1. In coming to this holy Ordinance with a deep self-humbling sense of our own vileness and unworthiness of so great a Priviledge because of our sins Eph. 3.18 Tim. 1.15 Luke 15.19 Q. 345. Wherein else A. 2. In animating at right ends in the use of this Ordinance such as the preserving
Grace the Seals of it and Spiritual benefit by them Eph. 1.3 2 Cor. 9.12 Q. 370 What is another publick Duty A. 2. A sincere renewing our Consent to the Covenant of Grace and yielding our selves to the Lord as his Covenant-Servants with holy purposes of new and better Obedience to him in the strenght of Christ for time to come 2 Kings 23.3 2 Chron. 15.12 Rom. 6.13 c. 12.1 Ps 119.8 32. Q. 371. What is another publick Duty A. A cheerful giving some Relief to the poor Members of Jesus Christ in testimony of our Love and Thankfulness to Christ for the Mercy we have received from him and of our Love to them Gal. 6.10 1 Cor. 16.1 2. Matth. 25.40 Q. 372. What are the private Duties after the Lord's Supper A. They are two especially 1. A diligent Inquiry Whether we have received any spiritual Comfort or Benefit by this Ordinance i. e. Whether our Graces have been strengthned our Souls refreshed nourished revived and cheered our Consciences pacified and our Assurance of the Love of God increased c. Q. 373. What if we cannot find any of these Spiritual Benefits A. We should search out the Cause whether it was not want of due preparation before or want of a right disposition in the partaking of it and if so we should confess it unto God and be humbled for it endeavouring by after pains in Humiliation and Prayer to obtain the efficacy and benefit of it Q. 374. What if we did our best in preparing for it and in partaking of it and yet are not sensible of any real Benefit or Comfort by it A. We should pray earnestly to God and wait patiently on him for the Benefit and Comfort of this Ordinance because as Physick doth not presently work nor Meat presently nourish so neither doth this or other Ordinances always presently benefit our Souls but in God's time they shall Q. 375. What if we do find present Benefit and Comfort by it A. We should thankfully acknowledge it to God and labour to preserve it by an holy humble and watchful Conversation 1 Thess 5.18 Eph. 5.15 Q. 376. What is the other Duty after the Lord's Supper A. A faithful keeping Covenant with God yielding a ready cheerful and constant Obedience to all his Commandments in Heart Lip and Life watching and praying against sin resisting its motions and temptations exercising Grace laying hold on Opportunities of honouring God in doing or receiving Good endeavouring to be perfect in every Good Work to do his Will that our Fruit may be unto holiness and the end Eternal Life Deut. 29.9 Psal 103.18 Heb. 5.9 Luke 1.6 Heb. 13.21 Rom. 6.22 Q. 377. Why should we be thus careful to keep Covenant with God A. 1. Because we cannot otherwise justly expect God should keep Covenant with us or that he should give us the Blessings promised unless we give him the Obedience commanded Deut. 7.9 10 11. 2. Because else we should but mock God in making Covenant with him and in receiving the Signs and Seals of it and deceive our own Souls Isa 66.30 3. Becanse we should else deprive our selves of the spiritual Benefits of this Ordinance and expose our selves to God's just Displeasure 1 Cor. 11.29 30. Eccles 5.4 5. FINIS A Catalogue of BOOKS sold by Tho. Parkhurst at the Bible and Three Crowns near Mercers Chappel in Cheapside OF Thoughtfulness for the Morrow with an Appendix concerning the immoderate Desire of fore-knowing Things to come of Charity in reference to other Mens Sins A Sermon at the Funeral of Mr. Rich. Adams M. A. sometime Fellow of Brasen-Nose Colledge in Oxford The Redeemer's Tears wept over lost Souls in a Treatise on Luke 19.41 42. with an Appendix wherein somewhat is occasionally discoursed concerning the Sin against the Holy Ghost and how God is said to will the Salvation of them that perish A Sermon directing what we are to do after a strict Enquiry whether or no we truly love God A Funeral Sermon for Mrs. Esther Sampson the late Wife of Hen. Sampson Doctor of Physick who died Nov. 24. 1689. The Carnality of Religious Contention In two Sermons preached at the Merchants Lecture in Broad-street A Sermon for Reformation of Manners A Sermon Preach'd on the Day of Thanksgiving Decemb. 2. 1697. To which is prefix'd Dr. Bate's Congratulatory Speech to the KING A Calm and Sober Enquiry concerning the Possibility of a Trinity in the Godhead A Letter to a Friend concerning a Postscript to the Defence of Dr. Sherlock's Notion of the Trinity in Unity relating to the calm and sober Enquiry upon the same subject A View of that part of the late Consideration to H. H. about the Trinity which concerns the sober Enquiry on that Subject The Redeemers Dominion over the Invinsible World Dr. Bates Funeral Sermon Mr. Matthew Meads Funeral Sermon All 15 by the Reverend John Howe The Fountain of Life opened or a Display of Christ in his Essential and Mediatorial Glory Containing Forty two Sermons on various Texts A Treatise of the Soul of Man wherein the Divine Original Excellent and Immortal Nature of the Soul are opened c. The Method of Grace in bringing home the Eternal Redemption contriv'd by the Father and accomplish'd by the Son through the Effectual Application of the Spirit unto God's Elect. Being the 2d part of the Fountain of Life The Divine Conduct or Mystery of Providence c. Navigation Spiritualiz'd Or a new Compass for Sea-men c. Two Treatises the first of Fear the second the Righteous Man's Refuge in the Evil Day A Saint indeed The great Work of a Christian A Touchstone of Sincerity Or Signs of Grace and Simptoms of Hypocrisie Being the Second Part of the Saint indeed A Token for Mourners Or Boundaries for Sorrow for the Death of Friends Husbandry spiritualiz'd or the Heavenly Use of Earthly Things All these 10 by Mr. John Flavel Sermons and Discourses on several Divine subjects by the late reverend and learned Divine Mr. David Clarkson B. D. sometime Fellow of Clare-hall Cambridge Mr. Pool's Annotations on the Bible 2 Vol. 3d Edit with an Addition of a Concordance and Contents to each chapter by Mr. Sam. Clark Catholick Theology Methodus Theologica both by Mr. Richard Baxter A sacred Poem on the Glory of Heaven Strong on the Covenant Burgess on the Corinthians Taylor on Christ's temptation A Dialogue between Timothy and Titus about the Articles of the Church of England Gurnall's christian Armour Dr. Horton's 100 Sermons Nostredamus's Prophecies Melvill's Memoirs Marveâ—'s Poems Daille on the Collossians Clark's Martyrology The Acts Decisions Decrees and Canons of the reformed Churches in France being a most faithful and impartial History of the Rise Growth and Decay of the Reformation in that Kingdom their confession of Faith Speeches Letters cases of conscience c. By John Quick Minister in London Baxter's Church-History and Councils History of councils inlarged and defended Apology for Nonconformists Second Defence of Nonconsormists Apology