what man knoweth the things of a man save the spirit of man that is in him even so the things of God knows no man but the Spirit of God works r Col. 1. 16. For by him were all things created that are in heaven and that are in earth visible and invisible whether they be Thrones or Dominions or Principalities or Powers all things were created by him and for him Gen. 1. 2. And the earth was without form and void and darkness was upon the face of the earth and the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters and worship Å¿ Mat. 28. 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 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 are proper to God onely Q. What are the Decrees of God A. God's Decrees are the wise free and holy acts of the counsel of his will t Ephes 4. 11. In whom also we have obtained an inheritance being Predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will Rom. 11. 33. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgements and his wayes past finding out Rom. 9. 14 15 18. What shall we say then Is there unrighteousness with God God forbid For he saith to Moses I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion Therefore he hath mercy on whom he will have mercy and whom he will he hardeneth whereby from all eternity he hath for his own glory unchangeably fore-ordained whatsoever comes to pass in time u Eph. 1. 4 11. 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 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will Rom. 9. 22 23. 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 and that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy which he had before prepared unto glory Psal 33. 11. The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever the thoughts of his heart unto all generations especially concerning Angels and men Q. What hath God especially decreed concerning Angels and men A. God by an eternal and immutable decree out of his meer love for the praise of his glorious grace to be manifested in due time hath elected some Angels to glory * 1 Tâ—m 5. 21. I charge thee before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect Angels that thou observe these things without preferring one before another doing nothing by partiality and in Christ hath chosen some men to eternal life and the means thereof x Eph. 1. 4 5 6. 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 having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself according to the good pleasure of his will to the praise of the glory of his grace wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved 2 Thes 2. 13 14. 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 whereunto he called you by our Gospel to the obtaining of the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ and also according to his sovereign power and the unsearchable counsel of his own will whereby he extendeth or withholdeth favour as he pleaseth hath passed by fore-ordained the rest to dishonour and wrath to be for their sin inflicted to the praise of the glory of his justice y Rom. 9. 17 18-21 22. For the Scripture saith unto Pharaoh even for this same purpose have I raised thee up that I might shew my power in thee and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy and whom he will he hardeneth Hath not the Potter power over his clay of the same lump to make one vessell unto honour and another unto dishonour 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 Matth. 11. 25 26. At that time Jesus answered and said I thank Thee O Father Lord of Heaven Earth because thou hast hid these things from the wise the prudent and hast revealed them unto Babes Even so Father for so it seemed good in thy sight 2 Tim. 2. 20. But in a great house there are not onely vessels of gold and of silver but also of wood and of earth and some to honor and some to dishonor Jude v. 4. For there are certain men crept in unawares who were before of old ordained to this condemnation ungodly men turning the grace of God into wantonness denying the onely God and our Lord Jesus Christ 1 Pet. 2. 8. And a stone of stumbling and a rock of offence to them that stumble at the word being disobedient whereunto also they were appointed Q. How doth God execute his Decrees A. God executeth his Decrees in the works of Creation and Providence according to his infallible fore-knowledge and the free and immutable counsel of his own will z Ephes 1. 11. In whom also we have obtained an inheritance being predestinated according to the purpose of Him who worketh all things according to the counsel of his own will Q. What is the work of Creation A. The work of Creation is that wherein God did in the beginning by the Word of his power make of nothing the World and all things therein for himself within the space of six dayes and all very good a Gen. 1. Heb. 11. 3. Through faith we understand that the Worlds were framed by the word of God so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear Prov. 16. 4. The Lord hath made all things for himself yea even the wicked for the day of evill Q. How did God create Angels A. God created all the Angels b Col. 1. 16. For by him were all things created that are in heaven and that are in earth visible and invisible whether they be Thrones or Dominions or Principalities or Powers all things were created by him and for him Spirits c Psal 104. 4. Who maketh his Angels Spirits his Ministers a flame of fire Immortal d Mat. 22. 30. For in the Resurrection they neither
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
c the Church furnished with all Gospel officers and ordinances (g) Matth 9. 38. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest that he will send forth labourers into his harvest 2 Thes 3. 1. Finally brethren pray for us that the word of the Lord may have a free course and be glorified even as it is with you purged from corruption (h) Mal. 3. 1 11. For from the rising of the sun even to the going down of the same my Name shall be great among the Gentiles and in every place incense shall be offered up unto my Name and a pure offering for my Name shall be great among the Heathen saith the Lord of hosts Zeph. 3. 9. For then will I turn to the people a pure language that they may all call upon the Name of the Lord to serve him with one consent countenanced and maintained by the civil magistrate (i) 1 Tim. 2. 1 2. I exhort therefore that first â—f all supplications prayers intercessions and thanksgivings be made for all men v. 2. For Kings and for all that are in auâ—hority thâ—t me may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty that the ordinances of Christ may be purely dispensed and made effectual to the converting of those that are yet in their sins and the confirming comforting and building up of those that are already converted (k) Act. 4. 29 30. And now Lord behold their threatnings and grant unto thy servanâ—s that with all boldness they may speak thy word v. 30. By stretching forth â—hine hand to heal and that signes and wonders may be done by the Name of thy Holy Child Jesus Eph. 6. 18 19 20. Praying alwayes with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints v. 19. And for me thâ—t utterance may be given me that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the Gentiles v. 20. For which I am an Ambassador in bonds that therein I may speak boldly as I ought to speak Rom. 15. 29 30 -32 And I am sure that when I come unto you I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the Gospel of Christ v. 30. Now I beseech you brethren for the Lord Jesus Christ sake and for the love of the Spirit that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me v. 32. That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God and may with you be refreshed 2 Thes 1. 11. Wherefore we pray alwayes for you that our God would count you worthy of his calling and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness and the work of faith with power 2 Thes 2. 16 17. Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God even our Father which hâ—th loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace v. 17. Comfort your heart and stablish you in every good word and work that Christ would rule in our hearts here (l) Eph. 3. from ver 14. to the 21. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ v. 15. Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named v. 16. 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 length and depth and height v. 19. And to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledg that ye might be filled with the fulness of God v. 20. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think c. and hasten the time of his second coming and our reigning with him for ever (m) Rev. 22. 20. He which testifieth these things saith surely I come quâ—ckly Amen even so come Lord Jesus and that he would be pleased so to exercise the kingdom of his power in all the world as may best conduce to these ends (n) Isai 64. 1 2. O that thou wouldst rend the heavens that thou wouldst come down that the mountains might flow down at thy presence v. 2. As when the melting fire burneth the fire causeth the waters to boil to make thine name known to thine adversaries that the nations may tremble at thy presence Rev. 4. 8 9 10 11. And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him and they were full of eyes within and they rest not day and night saying Holy holy holy Lord God Almighty which was and is and is to come v. 9. And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne who liveth for ever and ever v. 10. That four and twenty Elders fall down before him that sat on the throne and worship him that liveth for ever and ever and cast their Crowns before the throne saying v. 11. Thou art worthy O Lord to receive glory and honour and power for thou hast created all things and for thy pleasure they are and were created Q. What do we pray for in the third Petition A. In the third petition which is Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven (o) Matth. 6. 10. acknowledging that by nature we and all men are not only utterly unable and unwilling to know and to do the will of God (p) Rom. 7. 18. For I know that in me that is in my flesh dwelleth no good thing for to will is present with me but how to perform that which is good I find not Job 21. 14. Therefore thâ—y say unto God Depart from us we desire not the knowledg of thy wayes 1 Cor. 2. 14. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God for they are foolishness unto him neither can be know them because they are spiritually discerned but prone to rebel against his word (q) Rom. 8. 7. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God for it is not subject to the Law of God neither indeed can be to repine and murmur against his Providence (r) Exod. 17. 7. And he called the name of the place Massah and Meribaâ— because of the chiding of the children of Israel and because they tempted the Lord saying is the Lord among us or not Num. 14. 2. And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron And the whole Congregation said unto them would God that we had died in the land of Egypt would God that we had died in this wilderness and wholly inclined to do the will of the flesh of the devil (Å¿) Eph. â— 2. Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world according to the prince of the power of the ayre the spirit that now woâ—keth in the children of disobedience We
pray that God would by his Spirit take away from our selves and others all blindness (t) Eph. 1. 17 18. That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ the Father of glory may give unto you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledg 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 weakness (u) Eph. 3. 16. That he would grant you according to the riches of his glory to be strengthned with might by the Spirit in the inner man indisposedness (*) Mat. 26. 40 41. And he cometh to the Disciples and findeth them asleep and saith unto Peter What could ye not watch with me one hour v. 41. Watch and pray that ye enter not into temptation the Spirit indeed is willing but the flesh is weak and perverseness of heart (x) Jer. 31. 18 19. I have surely heard Ephraim bemoaning himself thus Thou hast chastised me and I was chastised as a bullock unaccustomed to the yoke Turn thou me and I shall be turned for thou art the Lord my God v. 19. Surely after that I was turned I repented and after that I was instructed I smote upon my thigh I was ashamed yea even confounded because I did bear the reproach of my youth and by his grace make us able and willing to know do and submit to his will in all things (y) Psal 119. 1 -8-35 36. Blessed are the undefiled in the way who walk in the law of the Lord. v. 8. I will keep thy statutes O forsake me not utterly v. 35. Make me to go in the paths of thy commandments for therein do I delight v. 36. Incline my heart unto thy testimonies and not to covetousness Act. 21. 14. And when he would not be perswaded we ceased saying The will of the Lord be done with the like humility (z) Mic. 6. 8. He hath shewed thee O man what is good and what doth the Lord require of thee but to do justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with thy God cheerfulness (a) Psal 100. 2. Serve the Lord with gladness come before his presence with singing Job 1. 21. And Job said Naked came I out of my mothers womb and naked shall I return thither the Lord gave and the Lord hath taken away blessed be the name of the Lord. 2 Sam. 15. 25 26. And the King said unto Zadok Carry back the Ark of God into the City if I shall find favour in the eyes of the Lord he will bring me again and shew me both it and his habitation v. 26. But if he say thus I have no delight in thee behold here I am let him do to me as seemeth him good faithfulness (b) Isa 38. 3. And said Remember now O Lord I beseech thee how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart and have done that which is good in thy sight and Hezekiah wept sore diligence (c) Psal 119. 4 5. Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently v. 5. O that my wayes were directed to keep thy statutes zeal (d) Rom. 12. 11. Not slothful in business fervent in Spirit serving the Lord. sincerity (e) Psa 119. 80. Let my heart be sound in thy statutes that I be not ashamed and constancy (f) Psal 119. 112. I have enclined my heart to perform thy statutes alwayes even to the end as the Angels do in heaven (g) Isa 6. 2 3. Above it stood the Seraphims each one had six wings with twain he covered his face with twain he covered his feet and with twain he did fly v. 3. And one cried unto another and said Holy holy holy is the Lord of hosts the whole earth is full of his glory Psal 103. 20 21. Bless the Lord ye his Angels that excel in strength and do his commandments hearkning unto the voice of his word v. 21. Bless ye the Lord all ye his hosts ye ministers of his that do his pleasure Mat. 18. 10. Take heed ye despise not one of these little ones for I say unto you in heaven there Angels do alwayes behold the face of my Father which is in heaven Q. What do we pray for in the fourth Petition A. In the fourth Petition which is Give us this day our daily bread (h) Mat. 6. 11. acknowledging that in Adam and by our sin we have forfeited our right to all the outward blessings of this life and deserve to be wholy deprived of them by God and to have them cursed to us in the use of them (i) Gen. 2. 17. But of the Tree of knowledg of good and evil thou shalt not eat of it for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely dye Gen. 3. 17. And unto Adam he said because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife and hast eaten of the Tree of the which I commanded thee saying thou shalt not eat of it cursed is the ground for thy sake in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the dayes of thy life Rom. 8. 20 21 22. For the Creature was made subject to vanity not willingly but by reason of him who have subjected the same in hope V. 12. Because the Creature of it self also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God V. 22 For we know that the whole Creation groaneth and travelleth in pain together until now Jer. 5. 25. Your iniquities have turned away these things and your sins have withholden good things from you Deut 28. from ver 15. to the end But it shall come to pass if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God to observe to do all his Commandments and statutes which I command thee this day that all these curses shall come upon thee and overtake thee V. 16. Cursed shalt thou be in the City and cursed in the field and cursed in thy basket and in thy store c. To the end of the chap. and that neither they of themselves are able to sustain us (k) Deut. 8. 3. And he humbled thee and suffered thee to hunger and fed thee with Mannâ— which thou knewest not neither did my fathers know that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord doth man live nor we to merit (l) Gen. 32. 10. I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies and of all the truth which thou hast shewed to thy servant c. or by our own industry to procure them (m) Deut. 8. 17 9. And thou say in thine heart My power and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth V. 18. But thou shalt remember the Lord thy God for it is be that giveth thee power to
temptation taken you but such as is common to man but God is faithful who will not suffer you to he tempted above what ye are able but will with the temptation also make a way to escape that ye may be able to bear it bestow and blesse all means of grace (Å¿) Heb. 13. 20. 21. Now the God of peace that brought again from the dead our Lord Jeâ—us Christ that great shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the everlasting covenant V. 21. Make you perfect in every good work to do his will working in you that which is well-pleasing in his sight through Jesus Christ c. and quicken us to watchfulnesse in the use of them that we and all his people may by his providence be kept from being tempted to sin (t) Mat. 26. 21. Watch and pray that ye enter not into temptation c. Psal 13. 9. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins let not them have dominion over me then shall I be upright and innocent from the great transgression or if tempted that by his Spirit we may be powerfully supported and enabled to stand in the hour of temptation (u) Eph. 3. 14 15 16 17. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ V. 15. Oâ— whom the whole family of heaven and earth is named V. 16. 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 c. 1 Thes 3. 13. To the end he may establish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God even our Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints Jude v. 24. Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy or when fallen raised again and recovered out of it (*) Psa 5â— 12. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation and uphold me with thy free spirit and have a sanctified use and improvement thereof (x) 1 Pet. 5. 8 9 10. Be sober be vigilant because your adversary the Divel as a roaring Lion walketh about seeking whom he may devour v. 9. Whom resist stedfast in the faith knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world v. 10. But the God of all peace 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 that our sanctification and salvation may be perfected (y) 2 Cor. 13. 7-9 Now I pray to God that ye do no evil not that we should appear approved but that ye should do that which is honest though we be as reprobates V. 9. For we are glad when we are weak and ye are strong this also we wish even your perfection Satan trodden under our feet (z) Rom. 16. 20. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly c. Zech. 3. 2. And the Lord said unto Satan The Lord rebuke thee O Satan even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee Is not this a brand pluckt out of the fire Luk. 22. 31 32. And the Lord said Simon Simon behold Satan hath desired to have you that he may sift you as wheat v. 32. But I have prayed for thee that thy faith fail not and when thou art converted c. and we fully freed from sin temptation and all evil for ever (a) Joh. 17. 15. I pray not that thou shouldst take them out of the world but that thou shouldst keep them from the evil 1 Thes 5. 23. And the very God of peace sanctifie you wholly and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blamelesse unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ Q. What doth the conclusion of the Lords Prayer teach us A. The conclusion of the Lords Prayer which is For thine is the Kingdome the power and the glory for ever Amen (b) Mat. 6. 13. teacheth us to enforce our petitions with arguments (c) Rom. 15. 30. Now I beseech you brethren for the Lord Jesus Christs sake and for the love of the Spirit that you strive together with me in your prayers to God for me which are to be taken not from any worthinesse in our selves or in any other creature but from God (d) Dan. 9 â— 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 righteousness belongeth unto thee but unto us confusion of face as at this day c. 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 rigteousness I beseech thee let thine anger and thy fury be turned away from thy City Jerusalem c. 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 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 heatken and doe defer not for thine own sake O my God for thy city and thy people are called by thy Name and with our prayers to join praises (e) Phil. 4. 6. Be careful for nothing but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God ascribing to God alone eternal soveraignty omnipotency and glorious excellency (f) 1 Chron. 29. 10 11 12 13. Wherefore David blessed the Lord before all the Congregation and said Blessed be thou Lord God of Israel our Father for ever v. 11. Thine O Lord is the greatnesse 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 honour come of thee and thou reignest over all and in thine hand is power and might c. v. 13. Now therefore our God we thank thee and bless thy glorious Name in regard whereof as he is able and willing to help us (g) Eph. 3 20 21. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we can ask or think according to the power that worketh in us v. 21. Unto
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.
How is the grace of God manifested in the second Covenant A. The grace of God is manifested in the second Covenant in that he freely provideth and offereth to sinners a Mediator t Gen. 3. 15. And I will put enmity between thee and the woman and between thy seed and her seed it shall bruise thy head and thou shalt bruise his heel Isa 42. 6. I the Lord have called thee in righteousness and will hold thine hand and will keep thee and will give thee for a Covenant of the people for a light of the Gentiles Joh. 6. 27. Labour not for the meat which perisheth but for the meat which endureth unto everlasting life which the son of man shall give unto you for him hath God the father sealed and life and salvation by him u 1 John 5. 11 12. And this is the record that God hath given unto us eternal life and this life is in his Son V. 12. He that hath the Son hath life and he that hath not the Son hath not life and requiring faith as the condition to interest them in him * Joh. 3. 16. For God so loved the world that he gave his onely begotten Son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life John 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 promiseth and giveth his holy Spirit x Prov. 1. 23. Behold I will pour out my Spirit unto you I will make known my words unto you to all his elect to work in them that faith y 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 with all other saving graces z Gal. 5. 22 23. But the fruit of the Spirit is love joy peace long-suffering gentleness goodness faith V. 22. Meekness temperance against such there is no law and to enable them unto all holy obedience a Ezek. 36. 27. And I will put my Spirit within you and cause you to walk in my statutes and ye shall keep my judgements and do them as the evidence of the truth of their faith b Jam. 2. 18 22. Yea a man may say Thou hast faith and I have works shew me thy faith without thy works and I will shew thee my faâ—th by my works V. 22. Seest thou how faith wrought with his works and by works was faith made perfect and thankfulness to God c 2 Cor. 5. 14 15. For the love of Christ constraineth us because we thus judge that if one died for all then were all dead V. 15 And that he died for all that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves but unto him which died for them and rose again and as the way which he hath appointed to salvation d Eph. 2. 10. For we are his workmanship created in Christ Jesus unto good works which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them Q. Was the Covenant of Grace alwaies administred after one and the same manner A. The Covenant of Grace was not alwayes administred after the same manner but the administrations of it under the Old Testament were different from those under the New e 2 Cor. 3. 6 7 8 9. Who also hath made us able Ministers of the New Testament not of the letter but of the Spirit for the letter killeth but the Spirit giveth life V. 7. But if the Ministration of death written and ingraven in stones was glorious so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance which glory was to be done away V. 8. How then shall not the ministration of the Spirit be rather glorious V. 9. For if the ministration of condemnation be glorious how much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory Q. How was the Covenant of Grace administred under the Old Testament A. The Covenant of Grace was administred under the Old Testament by Promises f Rom. 15. 8. Now I say that Jesus Christ was a Minister of the Circumcision for the truth of God to confirme the promises made unto the Fathers Prophecies g Act. 3. 20 24. And he shall send Jesus Christ which was preached unto you yea and all the Prophets from Samuel and those that follow after as many as have spoken have likewise foretold of these dayes Sacrifices h Heb. 10. 1. For the law having a shadow of good things to come not the very image of the things can never with those sacrifices which they offer year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect Circumcision i 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 that believe though they be not circumcised that righteousness might be imputed unto them also the Passeover k 1 Cor. 5. 7. Purge out therefore the old leaven that ye may be a new lump as ye are unleavened for even Christ our Passeover is sacrificed for us and other Types and Ordinances which did all fore-signifie Christ then to come and were for that time sufficient to build up the Elect in faith in the promised Messiah l Heb 8. 9. and 10. chapters Heb. 11. 13. These all died in faith not having received the promises but having seen them afar off and were perswaded of them and embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth by whom they then had full remission of sin and eternal salvation m Gal. 3. 7 8 9-14 Know ye therefore that they who are of faith are the children of Abraham And the Scripture foreseeing that God would justifie the heathen through faith preached before the Gospel unto Abraham saying In thee shall all nations be blessed So then they who be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham V. 14. That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith Q. How is the Covenant of grace administred under the New Testament A. Under the New Testament when Christ the substance was exhibited the same Covenant of Grace was and still is to be administred in the preaching of the word n Mark 16. 15. And he said unto them Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature and the administration of the Sacraments of Baptisme o 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 alwayes unto the end of the world and the Lords Supper p
1 Cor. 11. 23 24 25. For I have received of the Lord that which I also delivered unto you that the Lord Jesus the same night wherein he was betrayed took bread and when he had given thanks he brake it and said Take eat this is my body which was broken for you this do in remembrance of me After the same manner also he took the cup when he had supped saying This cup is the New Testament in my blood this do ye as oft as ye drink it in remembrance of me in which Grace and salvation is held forth in more fulness evidence and efficacy to all Nations q 2 Cor. 3. 6. to the end of the chapter Who hath also made us able ministers of the New Testament not of the letter but of the Spirit for the letter killeth but the Spirit giveth life But if the ministration of death written and engraven in stones was glorious c. Heb. 8. 6 -10 11. For finding fault with them he saith Behold the dayes come saith the Lord when I will make a new Covenant with the house of Israel and Judah V. 10. For this is the Covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those dayes saith the Lord I will put my laws into their minds and write them in their hearts and I will be to them a God and they shall be to me a people V. 11. And they shall not teach every man his neighbour and every man his brother saying Know the Lord for all shall know me from the least to the greatest Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the name of c. Q. Who is the Mediator of the Covenant of Grace A. The onely Mediator of the Covenant of Grace is the Lord Jesus Christ r 1 Tim. 2. 5. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and Man the Man Christ Jesus who being the eternal Son of God of one substance and equal with the Father Å¿ Joh. 1. 1 -14 In the beginning was the word and the word was with God and the word was God V. 14. And the word was made flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld his glory the glory as of the onely begotten of the Father full of grace and truth Joh. 10. 30. I and my father are one Phil. 2. 6. Who being in the form of God thought it no robbery to be equal with God in the fulness of time became man t Gal. 4. 4. But when the fulness of time was come God sent forth his Son made of a woman made under the Law and so was and continues to be God and Man in two entire distinct natures and one person for ever u Luke 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 Therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God Rom. 9. 5. Whose are the Fathers and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came who is over all God blessed for ever Amen Col. 2. 9. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily Heb. 7. 24 25. But this man because he continueth ever hath an unchangeable Priesthood 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 did Christ being God become Man A. Christ the Son of God became Man by taking to himself a true body and a reasonable soul * Joh. 1. 14. And the word was made flesh and dwelt among us and we beheld his glory the glory as of the onely begotten of the Father full of grace and truth Mat. 26. 38. Then saith he unto them My soul is exceeding sorrowful even unto death tarry ye here and watch with me being conceived by the power of the Holy Ghost in the womb of the Virgin Mary of her substance and born of her x Luke 1. 27-31-35-42 To a virgine spoused to a mâ—n whose name was Joseph of the house of David and the Virgins name was Mary V. 31. And behold thou shalt conceive in thy womb and bring forth a Son and shalt call his name Jesus V. 35. And the Anâ—el answered and said unto her the Holy Ghost shall come upon thee and the power of the Highest shall over-shadow thee Therefore also that holy thing whâ—ch shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God V. 42. And Elizabeth spake out with a loud voice and said Blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb 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 yet without sin y Heb. 4. 15. For we have not an High Priest which cannot be touched with a feeling of our infiâ—mities but was in all points tempted like 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. Why was it requisite that the Mediator should be God A. It was requisite that the Mediator should be God that he might sustain and keep the humane nature from sinking under the infinite wrath of God and the power of death z Acts 2. 24 25. Whom God hath raised up having loosed the pains of death because it was not possible he should be holden of it For David speaks concerning him I foresaw the Lord alwayes before my face for he is on my right hand that I should not be moved 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 Compared with Rom. 4. 25. Who was delivered for our offences and was raâ—sed again for our justification Heb. 9. 14. How much more shall the blood of Christ who through the eternal Spirit offered up himself without spot to God purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God give worth and efficacy to his sufferings obedience and intercession a Act. 20. 28. Take heed therefore unto your selves and to all the flock over which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers to feed the Church of God which he hath purchased with his own blood Heb. 9. 14. How much more shall the blood of Christ who through the eternal Spirit offered up himself without spot to God purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God Heb. 7. 25 26 27 28. 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 V. 26. For such an High Priest became us who is holy harmless undefiled separate from sinners and made higher then the Heavens V. 27. Who needeth not daily as those High Priests to offer up sacrifice first for
his own sins and then for the peoples for this he did once when he offered up himself V. 28. For the law maketh men High Priests which have infirmities but the word of the oath which was since the law maketh the Son who is consecrated for ever and so satisfie Gods justice b Rom. 3. 24 25 26. 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 saith in his blood to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past through the forbearance of God V. 26. To declare I say at this time his righteousness that he might be just and the justifier of him that believeth in Jesus procure his favour c Eph. 1. 6. To the praise of the glory of his grace wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved Mat. 3. 17. And lo a voice from Heaven saying This is my beloved Son in whom alone I am well pleased purchase a peculiar people d Tâ—â— 2. 13 14. Looking for the blessed hope and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saâ—â—â—ur Jesus Christ who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity and purifie unto himself a peculiar people zealous of good works give his Spirit to them e Gal. 4. 6. And because ye are sons God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts crying Abba Father conquer all their enemies f Luke 1. 68 69 -71.-74 Blessed be the Lord God of Israel for he hath visited and redeemed his people and hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David V. 71. That we should be saved from our enemies and from the hand of all that hate us V. 74. That he would grant unto us that we being delivered out of the hands of our enemies might serve him without fear and bring them to everlasting salvation g Heb. 5. 8 9. Though he were a Son yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered and being made perfect he became the author of everlasting salvation unto all that obey him Heb. 9 11. to the 16. But Christ being come an High Priest of good things to come by a greater and more perfect Tabernacle not made with hands that is to say not of this building V. 12. Neither by the blood of Goats and Calves but by his own blood he entred in once into the holy place having obtained eternal redemption for us V. 13. For if the blood of Bulls and of Goats and the ashes of an Heifer sprinkling the unclean sanctifies to the purifying of the flesh V. 14. 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. 15. And for this cause he is the Mediator of the New Testament that by means of death for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first Testament they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance Q. Why was it requisite that the Mediator should be Man A. It was requisite that the Mediator should be Man that he might advance our nature h Heb. 2. 16. For verily he took not on him the nature of Angels but he took on him the seed of Abraham perform obedience to the law i Gal. 4. 4. But when the time was come God sent forth his Son made of a woman made under the law suffer and make intercession for us in our nature k Heb. 2. 14. Forasmuch 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 Devil Heb. 7. 24 25. But this man because he continueth for ever hath an unchangeable Priesthood 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 have a fellow-feeling of our infirmities l Heb. 4. 15. For we have not an High Priest that cannot be touched with the seeling of ouâ— infirmitâ—es but was in all points tempted like as we are yet without sin that we might receive the adoption of sons m Gal 4. 5. To redeâ—m â—hem that were under the law that we might receive the adoption of sons and have comfort and access with boldness unto the throne of grace n Heb. 4. 16. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need Q. Why was it requisite that the Mediator should be God and Man in one person A. It was requisite that the Mediator who was to reconcile God and Man should himself be both God and Man and this in one person that the proper works of each nature might be accepted of God for us o Matth. 1. 21. 23. And she shall bring forth a Son and thou shalt call his Name Jesus for he shall save his people from their sins V. 23. Behold a Virgin shall be with child and shall bring forth a Son and they shall call his Name Emmanuel which being interpreted is God with us Mat. 3. 17. And lo a voyce from heaven saying This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased Heb. 9. 14. How much more shall the blood of Christ who through the eternal Spirit offered up himself without spot to God purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God and relied on by us as the works of the whole person p 1 Pet. 2. 6. Wherefore it is contained in the Scripture Behold I lay in Sion a choice Corner-stone elect and pretious and he that beleeveth on him shall not be confounded Q. Why was our Mediator called Jesus A. Our Mediator was called Jesus because he saveth his people from their sins q Mat. 1. 21. And she shall bring forth a Son and thou shalt call his name Jesus for he shall save his people from their sins Q. Why was our Mediator called Christ A. Our Mediator was called Christ because he was anointed with the Holy Ghost above measure r Joh. 3. 34. For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him Psal 45. 7. Thou lovest righteousness and hatest wickedness therefore God thy God hath annointed thee with the oyl of gladness above thy fellowes and so set apart and fully furnished with all authority and ability Å¿ John 6. 27. Labour not for the meat that perisheth but for that meat which endureth to everlasting life which the Son of Man shall give unto you for him hath God the Father sealed Mat. 28. 18 19 20. Jesus came and spake unto them saying All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth
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
sit upon the throne of his glory with a shout with the voice of the Archangel and with the trumpet of God e 1 Thes 4. 16. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout with the voice of the Arch-Angel and with the trump of God and the dead in Christ shall rise first to judge the world in righteousness f Act. 17. 31. Because he hath appointed a day wherein 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. What benefits hath Christ procured by his Mediation A. Christ by his Mediation hath procured Redemption g Heb. 9. 12. Neither by the blood of goâ—ts and calves but by his own blood he enâ—red in once into the holy place having obtained eternal redemption for us with all other benefits of the Covenant of Grace h 2 Cor. 1. 20. For all the promises of God in him are yea and in him Amen unto the glory of God by us Q. How do we come to be made partakers of the benefits which Christ hath procured A. We are made partakers of the benefits which Christ hath procured by the application of them unto us i John 1. 11 13. He came unto his own and his own received him not But as many as received him to them gave be power to become the sons of God even to them that believe in his name which is the work especially of God the Holy Ghost k Tit. 3. 5 6. 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 which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour Q. Who are made partakers of Redemption through Christ A. Redemption is certainly applied and effectually communicated to all those for whom Christ hath purchased it l Eph. 1. 13 14. 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 which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession unto the praise of his glory Joh. 6. 37-39 All that the Father giveth me shall come unto me and him that cometh unto me I will in no wise cast out V. 39. And this is the Fathers will who hath sent me that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing but should raise it up again at the last day Joh. 10. 15 16. As the Father knoweth me even so know I the Father and I lay down my life for the sheep 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 shepheard who are in time by the Holy Ghost inabled to believe in Christ according to the Gospel m Eph. 2. 8. For by grace ye are saved through faith and that not of your selves it is the gift of God 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 Q. Can they who have never heard the Gospel and so know not Jesus Christ nor believe in him be saved by their living according to the light of nature A. They who having never heard the Gospel n Rom. 10. 14. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed â—â—d how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard and how shall they hear without a preacher know not Jesus Christ o 2 Thess 1. 8 9. In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his power Eph. 2. 12. That at that time ye were without Christ being aliens from the Common-wealth of Israel and strangers from the Covenant of Promise having no hope and without God in the world John 1. 10 11 12. He was in the world and the world was made by him and the world knew him not He came unto his own and his own received him not But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the sons of God even to them that believe in his Name and believe not in him cannot be saved p Joh. 8. 24. I said therefore unto you that ye shall die in your sins For if ye believe not that I am He ye shall die in your sins Mark 16. 16. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved but he that believeth not shall be damned be they never so diligent to frame their lives according to the light of nature q 1 Cor. 1. 20 21 22 23 24. Where is the wise where is the Scribe where is the Disputer of this world Hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world V. 21. For after that in the wisdom of God the world through wisdom knew not God it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe V. 22. For the Jewes require a sign and the Greeks seek after wisdom V. 23. But we preach Christ crucified to the Jewes a stumbling block and unto the Greeks foolishness V. 24. But unto them who are called both Jewes and Greeks Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God or the Law of that Religion which they professe r John 4. 22. Ye worship ye know not what we know what we worship for salvation is of the Jewes Rom. 9 31 32. But Israel which followed after the law of righteousness hath not attained to the law of righteousness Wherefore Because they sought it not by faith but as it were by the works of the Law for they stumbled at that stumbling stone Phil. 3. 4 5 6 7 8 9. Though I might also have confidence in the flesh if any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh I more V. 5. Circumcised the eighth day of the stock of Israel of the tribe of Benjamin an Hebrew of the Hebrews as touching the law a Pharisee V. 6. Concerning zeal persecuting the Church touching the righteousnesse which is in the law blamelesse V. 7. But what things were a gain to me those I counted loss for Christ V. 8. Yea doubtless and I account all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord for whom I have suffered the loss of all things and do account them but dung that I may win Christ V. 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 righteousnesse which is of God by faith neither is there
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
Praise ye the Lord. Psal 138. 1 2 3. I will praise thee with my whole heart before the Gods will I sing praise unto thee v. 2. I will worship towards thy holy Temple and praise thy Name for thy loving kindness and for thy truth for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy Name v. 3. In the day when I cryed thou answerest me and strengthnedst me with strength in my soul 2 Cor. 2. 14 15. Now thanks be to God who alwayes causeth us to triumph in Christ and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledg by us in every place v. 15. For we are to God a sweet savour of Christ in them that are saved and in them that perish works and whatsoever he is pleased to make himself known by (q) Psal 145. throughout I will extoll thee O God my King c. Psal 8. throughout O Lord our Lord how excellent is thy Name in all the earth c. and to glorifie him in thought word (r) Psal 103. 1. Bless the Lord O my Soul and all that is within me bless his holy Name Psal 19. 14. Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in thy sight O Lord our strength and our Redeemer and deed (Å¿) Phil. 1. 9 -11 And this I pray that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledg and in all judgment v. 11. Being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ unto the glory and praise of God that he would prevent and remove Atheism (t) Psal 67. 1 2 3 4. God be merciful unto us and bless us and cause his face to shine upon us v. 2. That thy way may be known upon earth and thy saving health among all Nations v. 3. Let the people praise thee O God let all the people praise thee v. 4. O let the Nations be glad and rejoice for thou shalt judge the people righteously and govern the Nations upon earth ignorance (u) Eph. 1. 17 18. That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ the Father of Glory may give unto you the spâ—rit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledg 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 idolatry (*) Psal 97. 7. Confounded be all they that serve graven Images that boast themselves of Idols worship him all ye gods profaneness (x) Psal 74. 18 -22 23. Remember this that the enemy hath reproached O Lord and that the foolish people have blasphemed thy Name v. 22. Arise O God plead thine own cause remember how the foolish man reproacheth thee daily v. 23. Forget not the voice of mine enemies the tumult of those that rise up against thee encreaseth continually and whatsoever is dishonourable to him (y) 2 Kings 19. 15 16. And Hâ—zâ—kiah prayed unto the Loid and said O Lord God of Israel which dwellest between the Cherubims thou art the God even thou alone of all the Kingdoms of the earth thou hast made heaven and earth v. 16. Lord bow down thine ear and hear open Lord thine eyes and see and hear the words of Sennacherib which hath sent him to reproach the living God and by his over-ruling providence direct and dispose of all things to his own glory (z) 2 Chron. 20. 6 -10 11 12. And Jehoshaphat said O Lord God of our fathers Art not thou God in heaven and rulest not thou over all the Kingdoms of the heathen and in thine hand is there not power and might so that none is able to withstand thee v. 10. And now behold the children Ammon and Moab c. v. 11. Behold I say how they reward us to come to cast us out of our possessions which thou hast given us to inherit v. 12. O our God wilt thou not judge them for we have no might against this great company that cometh against us neither know we what to do but our eyes are upon thee Psal 83. throughout Keep thou not silence O God hold not thy peace c. Psal 140. 4 -8 Reep me O Lord from the hands of the wicked preserve me from the violent man who have purposed to overthrow my goings v. 8. Grant not O Lord the desires of the wicked further not his wicked devices lest they exalt themselves Q. What do we pray for in the second Petition A. In the second Petition which is Thy Kingdom come (a) Matth. 6. 10. acknowledging our selves and all mankind to be by nature under the dominion of sinne and Satan (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 v. 3. 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 we pray that the kingdom of sin and Satan may be destroyed (c Psal 68. 1 -18 Let God arise let his enemies be scattered let them also that have him flee before him v. 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 Rev. 12. 10 11. And I heard a loud voice saying in heaven Now is come salvation and strength and the Kingdom of our God and the power of his Christ for the accuser of our brethren is cast out which accused them before God day and night v. 11. And they overcame by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony and they loved not their lives unto the death the Gospel propagated throughout the world (d) 2 Thes 3. 1. Finally brethren pray for us that the word of the Lord may have free course and be glorified even as it is with you the Jewes called (e) Rom. 10. 1. Brethren my hearts desire and prayer to God is That they might he saved the fulness of the Gentiles brought in (f) John 17 9 -20 I pray for them I pray not for the world but for them that thou hast given me for they are thine v. 20. Neither pray I for these alone but for them also which shall believe on me through their word Rom. 11. 25 26. For I would not brethren that ye should be ignorant of this mystery â—est ye should be wise in your own conceits that blindness in part is hapned to Israel until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in v. 26. And so all Israel shaâ—l be saved as it is written There shall come out of Zion the deliverer and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob. Psal 67. throughout God be merciful unto us and bless us and cause his face
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
and rejected of men a man of sorrows and acquainted with griefs and we hid as it were our faces from him he was despised and we esteemed him not the wrath of God (g) Luk. 22. 44. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground Mat. 27. 46. And about the ninth hour Jesus cryed with a loud voice saying ELI ELILAMA-SABACTHANI that is to say My God my God why hast thou forsaken me and the cursed death of the cross (h) Phil. 2. 8. And being found in fashion as a man he humbled himself and became obedient unto death even the death of the cross in being buried (i) 1 Cor. 15. 4. And that he was buried and that he rose again the third day according to the Scriptures and continuing under the power of death for a time (k) Mat. 2. 40. As Jonas was three dayes and three nights in the whales belly so shall the Son of man be three dayes and three nights in the heart of the earth Act. 2. 24 25 26 27 -31 v. 24. Woom God bath raised having loosed the pains of death because it was not possible that he should be holden of it v. 25. For David speaketh concerning him I foresaw the Lord alwayes before my face for he is on my right hand that I should not be moved v. 26. Therefore did my heart rejoyce and my tongue was glad moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope v. 27. Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell neither wilt thou suffer thine holy One to see corruption v. 31. He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ that his soul was not left in hell neither did his flesh see corruption Q. Wherein consisteth Christs Exaltation A. Christs exaltation consisteth in his rising again from the dead on the third day (l) 1 Cor. 15. 4. And that he was buried and that he rose again the third day according to the Scriptures in ascending up into heaven (m) Mark 16. 19. So then after the Lord had spoken to them he was received up into heaven and sate on the right hand of God in sitting at the right hand of God the Father (n) Eph. 1. 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 and in coming to judge the world at the last day (o) Act. 1. 11. Which also said Ye men of Galilee why stand ye gâ—zing up into heaven this same Jesus which is taken up from you into heaven shall come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven Chap. 17. v. 31. He hath appointed a day in the which he shall judge the world in righteousnesse 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 are we made partakers of the Redemption purchased by Christ A. We are made partakers of the Redemption purchased by Christ by the effectual application of it to us (p) John 1. 11 12. v. 11. He came unto his own and his own received him not v. 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 by his holy Spirit (q) Tit. 3. 5 6. v. 5. Not by works of righteousnesse which we have done but according to his mercy â—e saved us by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the holy Ghost v. 6. Which be shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Sâ—viour Q. How doth the Spirit apply to us the Redemption purchased by Christ A. The Spirit applieth to us the Redemption purchased by Christ by working faith in us (r) Eph. 1. 13 14. v. 13. In whom ye also trusted after that ye heard the Word of truth the Gospel of your salvation in whom also after that ye believed ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise v. 14. Which is an earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession unto the praise of his glory Joh. 6. 37 39. v. 37. All the Father giveth me shall come unto me and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out v. 39. And this is the Fathers will which hath sent me that of all which he hath given I should lose nothing but should raise it again at the last day Eph. 2. 8. By grace ye are saved through faith and that not of your selves it is the gift of God and thereby uniting us to Christ in our effectual Calling (Å¿) Eph. 3. 17. That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith that ye being rooted and grounded in love 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. Effectuall calling is the work of Gods Spirit (t) 2 Tim. 1 9. Who hath saved us and called us with an holy calling not according to our works but according to his own purpose and grace which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began 2 Thes 2. 13 14. v. 13. But we are bound to give thanks alwayes 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 v. 14. Whereunto he called you by our Gospâ—l to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ whereby convincing us of our sin and misery (u) 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 inlightning our minds in the knowledg of Christ (*) Act 26. 18. To open their eyes and to turn them from darknesse to light and from the power of Satan unto God that they may receive forgiveness of sins and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me and renewing our wills (x) Ezek. 36. 26 27. v. 26. 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. 27. And I will put my Spirit within you and cause you to walk in my statutes and ye shall keep my judgments and do them he doth perswade and enable us to embrace Jesus Christ freely offered to us in the Gospel (y) John 6. 44 45. v. 44. No man can come unto me except the Father which hath sent me draw him and I will raise him up at the last day v. 45. As it is written in the Prophets and they shall be all taught of God every man therefore that hath heard and hath learned of the Father cometh unto me Phil. 2.