works Q. 5. How is Christ's righteousness made ours A. By Application of it to us by Faith Gal. 2.16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by the faith of Iesus Christ even we have believed in Iesus Christ that we might be justified by the faith of Christ and not by the works of the law for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified Q. 6. Is it not partly by Christ's Righteousness and partly our own A. No by Christ's Righteousness without any mixture of ours Rom. 3.28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law Q. 7. But doth not James says otherwise Jam. 2.14 What doth it profit my brethren though a man say he hath faith and have not works Can faith save him A. The two Apostles contradict not one another Paul speaks of Justification before God and Iames of justifying our Faith before men Q. 8. Is no regard then to be had to good works A. Yes very great they that believe must be careful to maintain good works Tit. 3.8 That they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works These things are good and profitable unto men Q. 9. Why can none be justified by works A. Because all are guilty before God Rom. 3.29 Is he the God of the Iews only Is he not also of the Gentiles Yes of the Gentiles also And the Law curses all that are under guilt Gal. 3.10 Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them Q. 10. What is the first Inference from hence A. The happy State of Believers who are now at peace with God Rom. 5.1 Therefore being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Iesus Christ. And whom he justifieth he glorifieth Rom. 8.30 Whom he justified them he also golrified Q. 11. What is the second Inference hence A. The excellency and necessity of Faith Rom. 3.30 The circumcision is justified by faith and the uncircumcision through faith Q. 12. What is the third Inference A. That the greatness of sin is no bar to faith since it is the Righteousness of Christ that justifieth 2 Cor. 5.21 For he hath made him to be sin for us who knew no sin that we may be made the righteousness of God in him Q. 13. What is the last Inference A. That Believers ought to be exceeding humble and far from boasting The Law of Faith excludes boasting Rom. 3.27 Where is boasting then It is excluded by what law Of works nay but by the law of faith Of Adoption Quest. 34. WHAT is Adoption A. Adoption is an act of God's Free-grace whereby we are received into the number and have a Right to all the Priviledges of the Sons of God Q. 1. How many sorts of Sons be there A. There is one by Generation and another by Adoption Iohn 1.12 13. 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 which were born not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man but of God Q. 2. What moves God to adopt any man A. Nothing but his Free-love Iohn 3.1 Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed on us that we should be called the Son of God Q. 3. Is this priviledge common to all men A. No it 's peculiar to them that receive him Iohn 1.12 But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the Sons of God Q. 4. What is the first property of Adoption A. It is a costly Relation Gal. 4.45 When the fulness of time was come God sent forth his Sâ—n made of a woman made under the law to redeem them that were under the law that we might receive the adoption of sons Q. 5. What is the second property of Adoption A. It is an high and honourable relation 1 Iohn 3 1â—â— Behold what manner of love the father hath bestowed upon us thaâ— we should be called the Sons of God Q. 6. What is the third property of Adoption A. It is a free relation on God's part Eph. 1.45 Accordâ—ing 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 Havâ—ing predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Iesus Chriâ—â— to himself according to the good pleasure of his will And 〈◊〉 makes us free Iohn 8.36 If the son therefore shall make you free ye shall be free indeed Q. 7. What is the fourth property of Adoption A. It is a permanent relation Iohn 8.35 The son abideth in the house for ever Q. 8. What is the first priviledge of the adopted A. They have an interest in God as Children in a Father 2 Cor. 6.18 And will be a father unto you and ye shall be my sons and daughters saith the Lord Almighty Q. 9. What is the second Priviledge A. Being God's Sons they are Heirs of God and joyâ—â— Heirs with Christ. Rom. 8.17 And if children then heirs Heirs of God and joynt heirs with Christ. Q. 10. What is the third Priviledge A. Seasonable and sanctified afflictions Heb. 12.6 〈◊〉 scourgeth every son whom he receiveth Q. 11. What is their fourth Priviledge A. The Attendance and Ministry of Angels Heb. 1 1â— Are they not all ministring spirits sent forth to minister for thâ—â— who shall be heirs of salvation Q. 12. What is their fifth Priviledge A. The assistance of the Spirit in Prayer Rom. 8.15 Foâ— we have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear but yâ—â— have received the spirit of adoption whereby we cry Abba fatherâ— And God's audience of their Prayers 1 Iohn 5.14 Aâ—â— this is the confidence that we have in him That if we ask any tâ—ing according to his will he heareth us Q. 13. What use should we make of this A. It teachech us to carry our selves as Children to our â—eavenly Father First In our imitation of him Eph. 5. â— Be ye therefore followers of God as dear children Secondly In â—ur submission to him Heb. 12.9 Furthermore we have had â—athers of our flesh which corrected us and we gave them reverence â—hall we not much rather be in subjection to the father of spirits â—nd live Thirdly In our dependance on him Mat. 6.32 â—or your heavenly father knoweth that you have need of all â—hese things Of Sanctification Quest. 35. WHAT is Sanctification A. Sanctifitation is the work of God's Free-grace whereby we are renewed in the whole man after the Image of God and are enabled more and more to die unto sin and live unto righteousness Q. 1. What are the parts of Sanctification A. Dying unto Sin and living unto God Rom. 6.11 Likewise reckon ye also your selves to be dead indeed unto sin but alive unto God througe Iesus Christ our Lord. Q. 2. Who is the
must be performed in the heart of a Child of God by the Spirit of Adoption Gal. 4.6 And because ye are sons God hath sent forth the spirit of his Son in our hearts crying Abba Father Rom. 8.26 Likewise the spirit also helpeth our infirmities for we know not what we should pray for as we ought but the spirit it self maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered Q. 7. What 's the third qualification of an acceptable Prayer respecting the manner A. It must be servent and importunate not cold and formal Iam. 5.16 The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much Matth. 7.7 Ask and it shall be given you seek and ye shall find knock and it shall be opened unto you Q. 8. Wherein doth true importunity with God in Prayer consist A. Not in the multitude of words Matth. 6.7 But when ye pray use not vain repetitions as the heathen do for they think they shall be heard for their much speaking But in an holy earnestness of Spirit to be heard Psal 143.7 Hear me speedily O Lord my spirit faileth hide not thy face from me lest I be like unto them that go down into the pit A prudent choice of prevalent Arguments Iob 23.4 I would order my cause before him and fill my mouth with arguments And a resolute persistance in our requests till they be granted Isa. 62.7 And give him no rest till he establish and till he make Ierusalem a praise in the earth Q. 9. Do not Prayers thus qualified sometimes miscarry A. God may delay and suspend the answer of them for a time Psal. 22. 2. O my God I cry in the day time but thou hearâ—â— not c. But sooner or latter God will alwayes answer them either in the very thing we ask 1 Iohn 5.15 We know that we have the petitions that we desired of him Or in that which is equivalent or better Gen. 17.18 19. And Abraham said unto God O that Ishmael might live before thee And God said Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed and thou shalt-call his name Isaac and I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant and with his seed after him Q. 10. Is there no Prayer but what is stated and fixed A. Yes there is sudden occasional Prayer which we call ejaculatory Such was Iacobs Gen. 49.18 I have waited for thy salvation O Lord. And this is exceeding useful to maintain constant communion with God and keep the heart in a spiritual frame Q. 11. Is all stated and fixed Prayer publick in the Congregation or Church A. No stated Prayer ought to be in our Families with those under our charge and in our Closets betwixt God and us alone Iosh. 24.15 But as for me and my house we will serve the Lord. And Matth. 6.6 But when thou prayest enter into thy closet and when thou hast shut thy door pray to thy father which is in secret and thy father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly Q. 12. What infer you from hence A. The restraint of Prayer is not only a great fin but an ill sign of a graceless heart Iob 15.4 Yea thou castest off fear and restrainest prayer before God And that which entails a judgment and curse upon men and their Families Ier. 10.25 Pour out thy fury upon the heathen that know thee not and upon the families that call not upon â—hy name Q. 13. What 's the second Inference from the Ordinance of Prayer A. That the true reason why we enjoy not the Mercies we pray for is not because God is unwilling to grant Mercies but because we either neglect Prayer or miscarry in the manner of Prayer Jam. 4.2 3 Ye lust and have not ye kill and desire to have and cannot obtain ye fight and war yet ye have not because yâ— ask not Ye ask and receive not because ye ask amiss that ye may consume it upon your lusts Of Direction in Prayer Quest. 99. WHat Rule hath God given for our dirâ—ction in the Duty of Prayer A. The whole Word of God is of use to direct us 〈◊〉 Prayer but the special Rule of Direction is that form of Prayer which Christ taught his Disciples commonly called the Lords-Prayer Q. 1. Do men need directions rules and helps in Prayer A. They do greatly need them for in â—nd of our selves we know not what to pray for as we ought Rom. 8.26 Likewise the spirit also helpeth our infirmities for we know not what we shall pray for as we ought c. Nor how to pray in a right manner and for right ends and a mistake in either frustrates our Prayer Jam. 4.3 Ye ask and receive not because ye ask amiss that ye may consume it upon your lusts Q. 2. When do men mistake in the matter of their Prayer A. They mistake in the matter of Prayer when they ask of God things that are not lâ—wful good and agreeable to his Will So the Disciples were ready to do in calling for fire from Heaven on the Samaritanes Luke 9.54 55. And when his disciples James and John saw this they said Lord wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven and consume them even as Elias did But he turned and rebuked them and said ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of Q. 3. When do men mistake in the manner of Prayer A. They mistake in the manner when they ask Mercies of God for carnal ends to satisfie their lusts Jam. 4.3 Ye ask and receive not because ye ask amiss that ye may consume it upon your lusts Or in a drowsie and careless manner Isa. 64.7 And there is none that calleth upon thy name that stirreth up himself to take hold of thee c. Q. 4. What helps hath God afforded us to furnish us to Prayer both in respect of the matter and manner A. The Scriptures abudantly furnish us with all sorts of helps and directions for the matter of Prayer It directs us both in coâ—fession of sins original and actual Psal. 51.4 5. Behold I was shapen in iniquity and in sin did my mother conceive me Against thee thee only have I sinned and done this evil in thy sight c. Petition and Thanksgiving Phil. 4.6 Be careful for nothing but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known unto God Q. 5. Doth it afford us any help or direction as to the manner of Prayer also A. Yes it doth and that both as to 1. our sincerity in Pâ—ayer 〈◊〉 10.22 Let us draw near with a traâ— heart in full assurance of faith having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience all our bodies washed pure water 2. As to our humility in Prayer Psal. 10.17 Lord thou hast heard the desire of the humble thou wilt prepare their heart thou wilt cause thine ear to hear 3. As to our faith in Prayer Jam. 1.6 But let him ask in faith nothing
of a trumpet Q. 11. VVhat doth his ascension teach us A. Heavenly-mindedness Col. 3.1 2. If ye them be risen with Christ seek those things which are above where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God set your affections on things above and not oâ— things on the earth And an encouragement in our Christian race Heb. 12.1 2. VVherefore seeing we also are compasâ—ed about with so great a cloud of witnesses let us lay aside every â—eight and the sin which doth so easily beset us and let us run with â—atience the race that is set before us looking unto Iesus the auâ—hor and finisher of our faith VVho for the joy that was set before him endured the cross despising the shame and is sate down at the right hand of the Throne of God The Second Part of the 28th Question of Christ's Exaltation Quest. 1. WHat was the Third degree of Christ's Exaltation A. His sitting at God's right hand in Heaven Heb. 1.3 VVhen he had by himself purged our sins sate down on the right hand of the majesty on high Q. 2. VVhat doth God's right hand signify A. A State of Honour Heb. 1.13 But to which of the angels said he at any time Sit on my right hand until I make thine enemies thy footstool And Power Mat. 26.64 Hereafter shall ye see the son of man sitting on the right hand of power Q. 3. VVhat is implied in Christ's sitting there A. That his work on earth is finished Heb. 10.11 12. But this man after he had offered one sacrifice for sin for ever sate down on the right hand of God Q. 4. VVhat else doth it signify A. Christ's power over all enemies Psal. 110.2 The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Sion rule thou in the midst of thine enemies Q. 5. VVhat learn we from Christ's sitting there A. The high honour Believers are advanced to by Christ. Eph. 2.6 And hath raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Iesus Q. 6. VVhat is the last step of Christ's Exaltation A. His coming to Judgment Acts 10.42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be judge of quick and dead Q. 7. It is certain there shall be a Iudgment-day A. Yes the Scripture assures it 2 Cor. 5.10 For we must all appear before the judgment-seat of Christ. And every man's conscience witnesses to it Rom. 2.16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Iesus Christ according to my Gospel Q. 8. What is the first property of Christ's Iudgment A. It will be awful and solemn 1 Thes. 4.16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout with the voice of the Arch-angel and with the Trâ—mp of God and the dead in Christ shall rise first Q. 9. VVhat is the second Property of it A. It will be exact and critical Rom. 2.16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Iesus Christ according to my Gospel Mat. 12.36 But I say unto you That every idle word that men shall speak they shall give account thereof in the day of Iudgment Q. 10. What is the third Property of it A. It will be an universal Judgment Rev. 20.12 And I saw the dead small and great stand before God and the books were opened Q. 11. How is this a part of Christ's Exaltation A. He now acts in the fulness of his Kingly Power Mat. 25.34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand Come ye blessed of my father inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world And this will rowl away the reproach of his enemies Rev. 1.7 Behold he cometh with clouds and every eye shall see him and they also which pierced him Q. 12. What learn we from Christ's being Iudge A. That Believers shall not be cast in Judgment Rom. 8.1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them that are in Christ Iesus Q. 13. What learn we hence A. The deplorable State of Christless Persons Luke 19.27 But those mine enâ—mies that would not that I should reign over them bring hither and slay them before me Q. 14. What else learn we from Christ's Iudgment A To give all diligence to be found of him in peace 2 Pet. 3.14 Wherefore beloved seeing that ye lock for such things â—e diligent that ye may be sound of him in peace Of the Application of Christ. Quest. 29. HOW are we made partakers of the Redemption purchased by Christ A. We are made parâ—akers of the Redemption purchased by Chriâ—t by the effectual Application of it to us by his Holy Spirit Q. 1. What did our Redemption cost Christ A. It cost him his own Blood to obtain it Heb. 9.12 Neither by the blood of Goats and Calves but by his own blood he entred once into the holy place having obtained eternal redemption for us Q. 2. Can none have the benefit of it exceept it be applied to them A. No if Christ be not applied we cannot be saved Iohn 1.12 But as many as received him to them gave he power to become theâ— Sons of God even to them that believe on his name Q. 3 Whos 's work or office is it to apply Christ to us A. It 's the office and work of God's Spirit Tit. 3.45 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour towards man appeared not by works of righteousness which we have done but according to his mercy he saved us by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost Q. 4. Wâ—at Means doth the Spirit use in applying Christ A. The external means he makes use of is the Ministry of the Gospel 1 Cor. 3.5 Who then is Paul and who is Apollo but Ministers by whom ye believed Q. 5. Is this sâ—fficient of it self A. No the Blessing and Power of the Spirit must accompany it or Christ cannot be applied 1 Thes. 1.5 6. For our Gospel came not unto you in word only but also in power and in the Holy Ghost and in much assurance as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake And ye became followers of us and of the Lord having received the word in much affliction with joy of the Holy Ghost Q. 6. To whom doth the Spirit apply Christ A. To those that were given him of the Father before the world was Acts 13.48 And as many as were ordained to eternal life believed John 14.17 Even the spirit of truth whom the world cannot receive because it seeth him not neither knoweth him but ye know him for he dwelleth with you and shall be in you Q. 7. Is the Application of Christ to a Soul finisht at once A. Tho the first act of Faith unites the Soul to Christ yet it is a continued act 1 Pet. 2.4 To whom coming as unto a living stone Q. 8. What learn you from hence A. What a
wavering c. 4. As to our fervency in Prayer Jam. 5.16 The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much Q. 6. Are these external rules and directions sufficient in themselves to enable us to pray acceptably A. In respect of external direction they are sufficient and we need no other outward rules than what the Scriptures furnish but besides that the internal helps and assistances of the Spirit are necessary to the offering up acceptable Prayer Rom. 8.26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities for we know not what we should pray for as we ought but the Spirit it self maketh intercession for us c. Q. 7. But doth the Scripture only furnish us with general rules of direction for Prayer A. No it furnishes us also with an excellent pattern and example of Prayer composed by Christ for our direction Mattâ— 6.9 After this manner therefore pray ye Our Father which art iâ— heaven c. Q. 8. Are Christians tyed by a necessity to use that form of words or was it only intended for a directory to them A. That form of words may be lawfully used but it 's plain its intention was to regulate our Petitions by it and thereforâ— they that use it in spells and charms as the Papists or thoâ— that think nothing is Prayer but that form of words 〈◊〉 Christs intention in it Q. 9. How doth it appear it was not Christs intention strictly 〈◊〉 â—ind us to that very form of words in our Prayers A. Divines give us these reasons against it 1. Because thiâ— Prayer is set down diversly by the Evangelist Matth 6. 1â—â— 12. Thy kingdom come thy will be done in earth as it is in heavenâ—â— And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors And Luke 11.3 4. Give us day by day our daily bread and forgive us 〈◊〉 sins for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us and lead 〈◊〉 not into temptation but deliver us from evil 2. Christ and 〈◊〉 Apostles did not alwayes use this form of words afterwards as appears by his Prayer at Lazarus his grave John 11. and that for his Apostles John 17. 3. Because these words Matth. 6.9 After this manner c. plainly shew its use wa◠〈◊〉 tended for a directory to us Q. 10 What 's the first Inference from hence A. Hence we learn the fulness and compleatness of the Scriâ—â—tures not only for the guiding and setling of our Faith in things that are to be believed but also of our whole practice in every Duty we are to perform Q. 11. What 's the second Inference hence A. Hence we are informed how necessary it is to acquaint our selves with the mind of God revealed in his Word that we may guide our selves in Prayer both for matter and manner thereby and not utter to God words without knowledge Q. 12. What 's the last Inference from hence A. That those who neglect all Prayer and those that satisfie themselves with a form of Prayer which they utter without knowledge or affection do greatly sin against God And that it is the duty of all Christians from a sense of their own sins wants and mercies to be often with God in prayer guiding themselves in that spiritual duty by such inward and outward helps as his word and spirit are able to furnish them with Of the Preface to the Lords Prayer Quest. 100. WHat doth the Preface of the Lords Prayer teach us A. The Preface of the Lords Prayer which is our Father which art in Heaven teacheth us to draw near to God with all holy reverence and confidence as Children to a Father ready to help us and that we should pray with and for others Q. 1. What doth the word Father import in this Preface A. It imports the Spirit of Adoption to be the principle of all acceptable prayers Gal. 4.6 And because ye are sons God hath given forth the spirit of his son into our hearts crying Abba Father Q. 2. What 's the first benefit or heâ—p we have in Prayer from the Spirit of Adoption A. He excites our Spirits to seek God in prayer Psal. 27.8 when thou saidest seek ye my face my heart said unto thee thy face Lord will I seek Q. 3. What 's the second Assistance he gives us in prayer A. He indites and suggests sutable and acceptable matter to us in prayer Rom. 8.26 Likewise the spirit also helpeth our infirmities for we know not what we should pray for as we ought but the spirit it self maketh intercession for us c. Q. 4. What 's the third Benefit we have by him in prayer A. He fills our Souls with spiritual and Holy affections in prayer and helps us to act his Graces in our Duties Rom. 8.26 Likewise the spirit also helpeth our infirmities for we know not what we should ask as we ought but the spirit it self maketh intercession â—or us with groanings which cannot be uttered Q. 5. What else doth this word Father import A. It imports that Holy confidence which Believers may and ought to draw near to God with all as Children to a Father Eph. 3.12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him Q. 6. Doth it only Signify our relation and Confidence A. No it also signifies the reverential fear of God which ought at all times to be on our hearts especially in Prayer Mal. 1.6 A son honoureth his father and a servant his master If then I be a Father where is my honour and if I be a Master where is my fear Q. 7. What is further imported in this word Father A. It imports Gods willingness and readiness to grant the best Mercies to his people that seek them duly at his hand Matth. 7.11 If ye then being evil know how to give good gifts unto your children how much more shall your father which is in Heaven give good things to them that ask him Q. 8. Why is he here called our Father A. To signify to us that it is not only our duty to pray secretly by and for our selves but also with and for others Eph. 6.18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all Saints Q. Why is God said here to be in Heaven A. It is to note his Soveraign power and dominion over all as a ground-work of faith in prayer Q. 9.10 What else doth it import A. The great distance between God and us which should fill our hearts with an holy awe of him Eccles. 5.2 God is in Heaven and thou upon Earth therefore let thy words be few Q. 11. What 's the first Inference from hence A. It shews us what a sad case all those are in that have no special interest in God as a Father Q. 12. What 's the second Inference A. It shews us what a glorious Priviledge the Lord Jesus Christ hath purchased for and setled on his people Heb. 4.15 16. For we
3.6 Received up into glory Q. 6. Why did he assume our Nature A. That he might die in it for our Salvation Heb. 2.15 And delivered them who through fear of death were all their life time subject to bondage Q 7. Why did he rise in it after Death A. He raised it from the dead for our Justification Rom. 4.25 Who was delivered for our offences and was raised again for our Iustification Q 8. Why did he ascend in our Nature into Heaven A. To be a Mediator of intercession in our Nature Heb 7.25 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them Q 9. What is the first Instruction from hence A. That the Body of Christ is not every where but is contained in Heaven Acts 3.21 Whom the heaven must receive till the times of restitution of all things Q. 10. VVhat is the second Iustruction A. That Christ is full of tender compassions to his peoples infirmities Heb. 4.15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities but was in all points tempted like as we are yet without sin Q. 11. VVhat is the third Instruction A. That great and admirable is the glory designed for the bodies of Believers Phil. 3.21 VVho shall change our vile bodies that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself Q. 12. VVhat is the last Instruction A. That the bodily Eyes of Believers after the Resurrection shall see Christ in glory Iob 19.26 27. And though after my skin worms destroy this body yet in my flesh shall I see God VVhom I shall see for my self and mine eyes shall behold and not another Of Christ's Offices Quest. 23. WHat Offices doth Christ execute as our Redeemer A. Christ as our Redeemer doth execute the Office of a Prophet of a Priest and of a King both in his Estate of Humiliation and Exaltation Q. 1. What are the States and Conditions of our Redeemer A. Christ's States are twofold namely his State of Humiliation and his State of Exaltation Phil. 2.8 9. And being found in fashion as a man he humbled himself and became obedient unto death even the death of the cross VVherefore God also hath highly exalted him and given him a name above every name Q. 2. How many Offices belongs to Christ in these States A. Christ hath a threefold Office namely of a Prophet of a Priest and of a King Q. 3 Why doth Christ take all these three Offices A. Because they are all necessary for our salvation and we have the benefit of them all 1 Cor. 1.30 Who of God is made unto us wisdom and righteousness and sanctification and redemption Q. 4. Can no man take Christ in one Office and not in another A. No whoever will have the benefit of any one must receive him in all Acts 5.31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a prince and a saviour for to give repentance unto Israel and forgiveness of Sins Q. 5. What respect have the Offices of Christ to the Promises A. The Promises flow out of them as out of their Fountain 2 Cor. 1.20 For all the promises of God in him are Yea and in him Amen Q. 6. What Promises flow out of the Prophetical Office A. All the Promises of Illumination Guidance and Direction flow out of Christ's Prophetical Office Q. 7. What Promises flow out of the Priestly Office A. All the Promises of Pardon and Peace flow out of it Q. 8. What Promises flow out of the Kingly Office A. All the Promâ—ses of Defence Protection and Deliverances Q 2. What is the first instruction A. Hence we learn the compleatness of Christ for all the wants of his people Col. 2.10 And ye are compleat in him Q. 10. What is the second Instruction A. Hence we learn the folly and misery of all Hypocrites that close partially with Christ. Q 11 What is the third Instruction A. Hence we learn the singular dignity of the Lord Jesus None ever have all those Offices but Christ. Q. 12. What is the last Instruction A. That Faith is a considerate act and requires much deliberation Of Câ—rist's Prophetical Office Quest. 24. HOW doth Christ execute the Office of a Prophet A. Christ executeth the Office of a Prophet in revealing to us by his word and spirit the will of God for our salvation Q. 1. What doth Christ's Prophetical Office imply A. It implies man's natural blindness and ignorance 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 he know them because they are spiritually discerned Q. 2. What â—lse doth it imply A. That Christ is the original and fountain of all that light which guides us to salvation 2 Cor. 4.6 7. For God who commanded the light to shine out of darkness hath shined in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Iesus Christ. Q. 3. How doth Christ teach men the will of God A. He doth it by external Revelation of it Acts 3.22 For Moses truly said unto the fathers A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren like unto me him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you And by internal illumination Luke 24.45 Then opened he their understanding that they might understand the Scripture Q. 4 What need then of man's ministry A. Very much for Christ hath instituted Ministers as instruments by whom he will teach us Eph. 4 11 12. And he gave some Apostles and some Prophets and some Evangelists and some Pastors and Teachers for the perfecting of the Saints for the work of the Ministry for the edifying of the body of Christ. 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 Q. 5. Can no man savingly know the will of God without the teachings of Christ A. No though common knowledge may be obtained in a natural way yet not saving Mat. 11.25 At that time Iesus answered and said I thank thee O father Lord of heaven and earth because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent and hast revealed them unto babes Q. 6. How appears it that Christ is appointed to this office A. We have the written word for it Acts 3.22 A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren like unto me him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you Q. 7. What is the first Instruction hence A. None need be discouraged at their natural weakness if Christ be their Teacher Mat. 11.25 At that time Iesus answered and said I thank thee O father Lord of heaven and
and magnify it as a rule of duty though we must utterly renounce it as the way of our Justification Q. 12. What is the last Inference from hence A. That there is nothing too dear for a Christian in this world but he must give it up by self-denial when it comes in competition with his supream love to God Luke 14.26 If any man come to me and hate not his father and mother wife and children and brethren and sisters yea and his own life also he cannot be my disciple i. e. Love them less than me Of the Preface to the Commandments Quest. 43. and 44. WHAT is the Preface to the Ten Commandments A. The Preface to the Ten Commandments is in these words I aâ— the Lord thy God whâ—ch haâ—e brought thee out of the Land of Egypt out of the House of Bondage What doth the Preface to the Ten Commandments teach us A. The Preface to the Ten Commandments teach us that because God is the Lord and our God and Redeemer therefore we are bound to keep all his Commandments Q. 1. Why doth God use arguments and inducements to win men to the obedience of his laws A. Because he loves to work on man as a rational Creature according to the principles of his Nature Hos. 11.4 I dreâ— them with cords of a man with bands of love And because he delights in none but free and chearful Obedience Psal. 110.3 Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power Q 2. What is the first argument in this Preface A. It is the sovereignty of the Law-giver I am the Lord which should awe the heart of every man to obedience Iam. 4.12 There is one law-giver who is able to save and to destroy Q 3. What is the second argument to Obedience A. Our propriety in God by Covenant I am the Lord thy God This obligeth to Obedience and aggravateth disobedience Psal. 50.7 Hear O my people and I will speak O Israel and I will testify against thee I am God even thy God Hos. 9.1 Thou hast gone a whoring from thy God Q. 4. What is the third argument unto Obedience A. The benefits of Redemption that they receive from God Benefits perswade to duty and the goodness of God leads to repentance Rom. 2.4 Q. 5. How can deliverance out of Egypt be an argument to them that never were in Egypt A. As that Deliverance was a Type of our Deliverance so 't is an argument to us and an argument from the less to the greater so it obligeth us more than them Luke 1.74 75. That he would grant unto us that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear in holiness anâ— righteousness before him all the days of our life Q 6. What is that deliverance we have and how doth it 〈◊〉 us to Obedience A. Our Deliverance is not from Egypt but from Hell Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son Col. 1.13 And our persons are bought by the Redeemer to glorify God 1 Cor. 6.19 What know ye not that your body is the Temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you for ye are bought with a price wherefore glorify God in your body and in your spirits which are Gods Q. 7. Is it not mercenary to serve God upon the account of benefits received or to be received A. He that makes religious Duties Mediums to attain carnal Advantages only is of a worse than mercenary Spirit Hos. 7.14 And they have not cried unto me with their hearts when they howled upon their beds they assembled themselves for corn and wine and they rebelled against me But to be quickened by Mercy to Duty is not mercenary but Evangelical Hos. 3.5 They shall fear the Lord and his goodness Q. 8. What is the first Inference from hence A. That great is the condescention of God to Man that he will use arguments to induce him to obedience who might exact it only by his Sovereignty and justly damn us for our disobedience 2 Cor. 5.20 Now then we are embassadors for Christ as though God did beseech you by us we pray you in Christ's stead be ye reconciled to God Q. 9 What is the second Inference from hence A. That the more mercy any receive from God the more obligations are laid on them to obey him Psal. 116.1 2. I love the Lord because he hath heard my voice and my supplication because he hath inclined his ear unto me therefore will I call upon him as long as I live Q. 10. What is the third Inference from hence A. The more mercies and favours any man sins against the greater is that man's sin and the sorer will be his punishment Amos 3 1 2. You only have I known of all the families of the earth wherefore I will punish you for all your iniquities Q. 11. What is the fourth Inference from hence A. That God's expectations are greater where his mercies and favours have been so Isa. 5.4 What could have been done more to my vineyard that I have not done in it wherefore when I looked that it should bring forth grapes brought it forth wild grapes Q. 12. What is the last Inference from hence A. That memorials of God's Mercies are to be kept by us to provoke us to constant and chearful duties of obedience Exod. 17.14 And the Lord said unto Moses Write this for a memorial in a book and rehearse it in the ears of Ioshua Psal. 103.2 3. Bless the Lord O my soul forget not all his benefits Of the First Commandment Quest. 45. WHich is the First Commandment A. The First Commandment is Thou shalt have no other Gods before me Q. 1. What is the first duty enjoin'd in the first Commandment A. It is to know and acknowledge the Existence or Being of God and consequently condemns all Atheism both in judgment and practice Heb. 11.6 He that cometh to God must believe that he is and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him Psalm 14.1 The fool hath said in his heart there is no God Q. 2. What is the second duty of the First Commandment A. It requires all men to know and acknowledge the unity of God Deut. 6.4 Hear O Israel the Lord our God is one Lord. And condemns Polytheism or plurality of Gods 1 Cor. 8.5 6. For tho' there be that are called Gods whether in heaven or in earth as there be Gods many and Lords many but to us there is but one God Q. 3. Whence sprang the Opinion of more Gods than one at first in the world A. It sprang from ignorance of God's Omnipresence and Omnipotence Hence came their vain imaginations Rom. 1.21 Because that when they knew God they glorified him not as God neither were thankful but became vain in their imaginations and their foolish heart was darkened They thought the presence and power of God might reach one place and not
Gospel Q. 1. What 's the root or cause of Faith A. Not the power of Mans will Eph. 2.8 For by grace ye are saved through â—aith and that not of your selves it is the gift of God But the Spirit of God Gal. 5.22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love joy long suffering gentleness goodness faith John 1.12 13. 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 which were born not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man but of God Q. 2. How doth the Spirit of God ordinarily produce Faith A. By the preaching of the Word he ordinarily begets it Rom. 10.17 Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God though sometimes he doth it immediately Q. 3. Who are the proper subjects of Faith A. Convinced and sensible Sinners are the proper subiects of Faith John 16.8 9 10. And when he is come he will reprove the world of sin of righteousness and of judgment Of sin because they believe not on me of righteousness because I go to my Father and ye see me no more of judgment because the prince of this world is judged Q. 4. What is the seat or habitation of Faith A. Not only the Head or Understanding but principally the Heart and Will Rom. 10.10 With the heart man believeth unto righteousness c. Acts 8.37 And Philip said if thou believest with all thine heart thou mayest Q. 5. But is not the assent of the understanding true Faith A. The meer assent of the Understanding to the Truths of Scripture is not such a Faith as will save the Soul Jam. 2.19 Thou believest that there is one God thou doest well the devils also believe and tremble Q. 6. What 's the act of Faith that justifies a Sinner A. 'T is the receiving of Christ by the full and hearty consent of the heart that justifies us Iohn 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 Q. 7. What is the object of Faith A. The primary object of Faith is the Person of Christ and the secondary are his benefits Isa. 45.22 Look unto me and â—e saved all the ends of the earth c. Phil. 3.8 9. Yea doubtless and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Iesus my Lord for whom I have suffered the loss of all things and do count them but dung that I may win Christ and be found in him not having mine own righteousness which is of the law but that which is through the faith of Christ the righteousness which is of God by faith Q. 8. May not a man look partly to Christ and partly to his own Works and Duties for Righteousness A. No he must eye Christ only and exclude all others or he cannot be justified Phil. 3.9 And be found in him not having mine own righteousness which is of the law but that which is through the faith of Christ the righteouness which is of God by faith Rom. 4.5 But to him that worketh not but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly his faith is counted for righteousness Q. 9. Is it enough to eye the person of Christ only in believing A. No we must eye the Person of Christ as cloathed with all his Offices Acts 16.31 And they said believe on the Lord Iesus Christ and thou shalt be saved and thine house Our ignorance needs him as a Prophet our guilt as a Priest our sins and enemies as a King Q. 10. Is true Faith exclusive of all fears and doubts A. No it is not but true Believers are troubled with many fears and doubtings Isa. 50.10 Who is he among you that feareth the Lord that obeyeth the voice of his servant that walketh in darkness and hath no light c. Mark 9.24 And straitway the father of the child cryed out with tears Lord I believe help thou mine unbelief Q. 11. Is no man actually justified till he believe A. No he cannot be justified actually till he believe actually Gal. 3.22 But the scripture hath concluded all under sin that the promise by faith of Iesus Christ might be given to them that believe John 3.18 He that believeth on him is not condemned but he that believeth not is condemned already because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten son of God Q. 12. Is every man that believes justified immediately and fully upon his believing A. Yes he is Rom. 5.1 Therefore being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Iesus Christ. John 5.24 He that heareth my words and believeth on him that sent me hath everlasting life and shall not come into condemnation but is passed from death unto life Q. 13. What 's the true character or description of a Believer A. He is one that having been convinced of his sin and misery and of his own and all other Creatures inability to save him and of the ability and willingness of Christ to save him le ts go all hold and dependance on Creatures and his own Righteousness and casts himself entirely upon Christ for Righteousness and Life Of the Properties Signs and Means of Faith Q. 1. WHat is the first property of Faith A. 'T is a most precious Grace 2 Pet. 1.1 To them that have obtained like precious faith with us c. And must needs be so seeing 't is the bond of our union with Christ Eph. 3.17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith that ye being rooted and grounded in love That by which we are justified Rom. 5.1 Therefore being justified by faith c. And that by which our Souls do live Hab. 2.4 The just shall live by his faith Q. 2. What 's the second property of Saving Faith A. The second property of Faith is this that it is the most useful Grace in this World to a Believer it being the Souls eve Heb. 11 27. By faith he forsook Egypt not fearing the wrath of the king for he endured as seeing him who is invisible c. It s â—aâ—d to apprehend Christ Phil. 3.12 That I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus It 's Cordial in a fainting season Psal. 27.3 I had fainted unless I had believed c. Q. 3. What are the foundations that support Faith A. The first foundation or prop of Faith is the power of God Rom. 4.20 21. He staggered not at the promise through unbelief but was strong in faith giving glory to God And being fully perswaded that what he had promised he was able also to perform Heb. 7.25 He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him c. Q. 4. What 's the second prop of Faith A. The truth and faithfulness of God in his promises Heb. 10.23 Let us hold fast the
and prayer some concomitant as due diligence and retention and some subsequent as practise Q. 3. What is due preparation â—or hearing A. It consists in serious consideration of the greatness and holiness of that God whom we approach in hearing the Word Acts 10.33 Now therefore we are all here present before God to hear all things that are commanded thee of God And awing the heart even to a degree of holy trembling thereby Isa. 66.2 To him will I look even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit and trembleth at my word Q. 4. What 's the principal consideration thus to awe the heart A. The Word is in its own nature an heart-searching Word Heb. 4.12 For the word of God is quick and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit and of the joynts and marrow and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart And that eventually 't will be the savour of Life or Death to us 2 Cor. 2.16 To the one we are the savour of death unto death and to the other the savour of life unto life c. Q. 5. What else belongs to due preparation to hear A. The discharging of the heart from worldly cares Matth. 13.7 And some fell among thorns and the thorns sprang up and choaked them And carnal lusts Iam. 1.21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness and receive with meekness the engraffed word which is able to save your souls Q. 6. What 's the third act of due preparation A. Longing after the Word for further communications of Grace by it 1 Pet. 2.2 As new born babes desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby Isa. 2.3 And many people shall go and say come ye and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord to the house of the God of Iacob and he will teach us of his wayes and we will walk in his paths for out of Zion shall go forth the law and the word of the Lord from Ierusalem Q. 7. What 's the second antecedent duty of hearing A. Prayer is an antecedent duty to hearing the Word and that both for the assistance of the Minister 2 Thess. 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 And our own illumination Psal. 119.18 Open thou mine eyes that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law Q. 8. What else should we pray for A. That God would pour out his Spirit with the Word according to that promise Prov. 1.23 I will pour out my spirit unto you I will make known my words unto you Q. 9. Doth unpreparedness for the Word alwayes hinder its efficacy on the heart A. No God sometimes is found of them that sought him not Isa. 65.1 I was found of them that sought me not c. But it is a sin to neglect it and needs a pardon of God Q. 10. What 's the first motive to prepare for solemn duties A. That it argues the sincerity of the heart and in that case God will be merciful to infirmities 2 Chron. 30.18 19. For a multitude of the people even a multitude of Ephraim and Manasseth Issachar and Zebuluâ— had not cleansed themselves yet did eat the passover but not as it is written Wherefore Hezekiah prayed for them saying the good Lord be merciful towards him that prepareth his whole heart to seek the Lord God the God of his fathers though he be not cleansed according to the purification of the sanctuary Q. 11. What 's the second motive A. 'T is a sweet sign that God will make that duty successful for which the heart is prepared Psal. 10.17 Thou preparest their heart thou bendest thine ear to them Q. 12. What 's the third motive to preparation A. The majesty and jealousie of God to whom we approach obliges us to solemn preparation Heb. 12.28 29. Whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear for our God is a consuming fire Q. 13. But must a man neglect the duty if his heart be not duly prepared for it A. No for that would be to add a new sin to a former and aggravate it the more Q. 14. In what manner must the prepared heart go to the word A. Not in dependance on its own preparations but upon the Spirits assistance Psal. 71.16 I will go forward in the strength of the Lord God c. Q. 15. What 's the first act of Faith due to the Word A. The assenting act of Faith is required to the Word read or preached whereby we acknowledge it to be of Divine Authority 2 Tim. 3.16 And without controversie great is the mistery of godliness God was manifest in the flesh justified in the spirit seen of angels preached unto the Gentiles believed on in the world received up into glory 2 Pet. 1.21 For the prophesie came not in old time by the will of man but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost Q. 16. What 's the second act of Faith required of us A. An applying act of Faith is also required of us Rom. 15.4 For whatsoever things were written afore-time were written for our learning that we through patience and comâ—ort of the scriptures might have hope Q. 17. What 's the first end in applying the Word A. It is first to be applyed to our conviction both of sin and misery Acts 2.37 Now when they heard this they were pricked in their heart and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles men and brethren what shall we do Q. 18. What 's the second end or use of applying it A. It must be applyed for our guidance and direction to Christ Iohn 6.4 5. Every man therefore that hath heard and hath learned of the father cometh unto me Q. 19. What 's the third use to which it must be applyed A. We must apply it for our direction through the whole course of Christian Duties 2 Pet. 1.19 We have also a more sure word of prophesie whereunto ye do well that ye take heed as unto a light that shineth in a dark place until the day dawn and the day star arise in your hearts Q. 20. What other use must we apply it to A. It must be applyed for our comfort in all inward and outward troubles Rom. 15.4 For whatsoever things were written afore time were written for our learning that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope Q. 21. On what account are we to receive it with love A. We are to love it for its Authors sake because it 's the Word of God Psalm 119.159 Consider how I love thy precepts c. Q. 22. What 's the second motive of love to the Word A. The holiness and purity of it deserves and engages our love to it Psal. 119.140 Thy word is very pure therefore thy
servant loveth it Q. 23. What 's the third motive to engage our love to it A. The great and constant usefulness of it to our Souls as that we cannot subsist without Iob 23.12 I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food Q. 24. How doth this love to the Word manifest it self A. Our love manifests it self in our longing after it Psal. 119.20 My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times Our diligent attendance on it Acts 10.33 Immediately therefore I sent unto thee and thou hast well done that thou art come Now therefore are we all here present before God to hear all things that are commanded thee of God Q. 25. How is Faith and Love evidenced to the Word after hearing it A. By preserving it carefully in our hearts and memories Psal. 119.11 Thy word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee Q. 26. What 's the best cure for a bad memory A. Labour to get an high esteem of it and an experimental feeling of it and frequently meditate on it Psal. 119.16 I will delight my self in thy statutes I will not forget thy word Psal. 119.93 I will never forget thy precepts for with them thou hast quickened me Psal. 119.99 Thy testimonies are my meditation Q. 26. How is Faith and Love principally manifested to the word after hearing A. 'T is principally manifested by bringing forth the fruits of it in our lives Col. 1.5 6. For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel which is come unto you as it is in all the world and bringeth forth fruit as it doth also in you since the day ye bear a of it and knew the grace of God in truth Q. 28. What 's the use of all this A. This serves to reprove our formal and dead hearing the Word and excites us all to evidence and exercise more Faith Love and Obedience in hearing it Of Sacraments as means of Salvation Quest. 91. HOw do the Sacraments become effectual means of Salvation A. The Sacraments become effectual means of Salvation not from any vertue in them or in him that doth administer them but only by the blessing of Christ and the working of his Spirit in them that by Faith receive them Q. 1. What 's the first proper sense of this word Sacrament A. It primarily signifies a solemn Oath taken by Souldiers when they List themselves under a Prince or General and this Oath was mutual Q. 2. Why do we use it seeing it is not a Scripture word A. Though the Word be not found in Scripture yet the thing intended by it is and that brings the word in use for in the Sacraments God obliges himself to us by confirming his Covenant by it Rom. 4.11 And he received the sign of circumcision a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being 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 And we oblige our selves to God Rom. 6.3 4. Know ye not that so many of us as were baptized into Christ were baptized into his death Thereforâ— we are buried with him in baptism 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 Q. 3. What is here meant by Salvation A. By Salvation is meant our compleat and final deliverance from sin and misery both temporal and eternal From sin Matth. 1.21 For he shall save his people from their sins From misery 1 Thess. 1.10 Even Iesus which delivereth us from the wrath to come Q. 4. What is a mean of Salvation A. A mean of Salvation signifies any appointment of God whereby he promotes and accomplishes his design of saving our Souls so the word is a mean Rom. 1.16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth Q. 5. How doth the Word and Sacraments differ as means of Salvation A. The Word is appointed to be the first means of begeting Faith 1 Cor. 3.5 Who then is Paul or who is Apollo but ministers by whom ye believed c. Sacraments are to seal and confirm it Rom. 4.11 And he received the sign of circumcision a seal of the righteousness of faith c. Q. 6. What is meant by an effectual mean of Salvation A. By an effectual mean is meant such a mean as fully obtains and accomplishes the end it was appointed for 1 Thess. 2.13 Because when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us ye received it not as the word of men but as it is in truth the word of God which effectually worketh also in you that believe Q. 7. Don't all the means of Salvation prove effectual to men A. Though the means of Salvation prove effectual to all Gods Elect yet they are so to no others Acts 28.23 24. And when they had appointed him a day there came many to him into his lodging to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God perswading them concerning Iesus both out of the law of Moses and out of the prophets from morning till evening And some believed the things which were spoken and some believed not Q. 8. Do not the Sacraments save all that partake of them A. No they do not Baptism may pass on a cast-away Acts 8.23 For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity And the Lords Supper may be received unworthily 1 Cor. 11.27 Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread and drink this cup of the Lord unworthily shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. Q. 9. What 's the reason they prove not effectual to all A. Because their vertue and efficacy is not in themselves but in God for we see they work as Gods Spirit concurs or not concurs with them as in the instance before given Q. 10. But is not that for want of wisdom holiness or zeal in the Minister that they have no more efficacy A. No it is not principally or only from thence for it 's not in the power of the holiest Minister in the World to make them effectual 1 Cor. 3.7 Neither is he that planteth any thing neither he that watereth but God that giveth the increase Q. 11. Whence is it that Sacraments become effectual A. 'T is only from the Spirit of Christ working in them and by them on the souls of men 1 Cor. 12.13 For by one spirit are we all baptized into one body and have been all made to drink into one spirit Q. 12. What 's the first Instruction hence A. That men enjoying all the Ordinances of the Gospel and partaking of the Sacraments annexed to the Covenant of Grace may yet perish
sinned against me and I will pardon all their iniquities whereby they have sinned and whereby they have transgressed against me Hos. 14.2 Take away all iniquity and receive us graciously 2. Compleatly and perfectly Isa. 43.25 I even I am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for my own sake and will not remember thy sins Psal. 103.12 As far as the east is from the west so faâ— hath he removed our transgressions from us Mic. 7.19 He will subdue our iniquities and thou wilt cast all our sins into the depths of the sea Isa. 38.17 For thou hast cast all my sins behind thy back 3. Everlastingly Ier. 31.34 For I will forgive their iniquity and I will remember their sin no more Heb. 8.12 and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more Q. 7. But doth not God punish them afterward whom he haâ— justified and forgiven A. No not with a proper and vindictive punishment but he brings evil upon them for their sins as a Father chastises his Child and other sorts of afflictions for their spiritual good He may be angry as a Father with those he has pardoned but never hate them as a condemning Judge Psal. 89.28 My mercy will I keep for him for evermore and my covenant shall stand fast with him Ver. 34. My covenant will I not break nor alter the thing that is gone out of my lips Q. 8. How can God be said freely to pardon all our sins when we pray it may be done for Christs sake does not that imply that Christ has satisfied God for our sins and deserved our remission A. Yes it does so for the Lord Christ by his Life and Death did satisfie Divine Justice and did merit our forgiveness but if he did so we did not so our sins cost him dear but their pardon cost us nothing our pardon is perfectly free to us though due to Christ for God gave Christ freely for us God accepts of his merits and applyes them to us freely Rom. 3.24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Iesus Christ. Q. 9. But is there nothing required from us as the condition of pardon and if so how can it be absolutely free A. There are required Repentance from Sin and Faith in the Lord Christ Luke 13.3 But except ye repent ye shall all likewise perish Joh. 3. ult And he that believeth not the son shall not see life but the wrath of God abideth on him This is required from us towards our pardon but yet 't is free 1. Because God freely ordains thus to pardon 2. Because both these are the free gifts of God Acts 11.18 Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life Eph. 2.8 For by grace are ye saved through faith and that not of your selves it is the gift of God Q. 10. When then are our sins forgiven A. Just upon our closure with Christ by Faith in that very moment Rom. 5.1 Therefore being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Iesus Christ Rom. 8.1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus Q. 11. Why do we pray in the answer for the forgiveness of all our sins A. Because if the least guilt should remain upon us 't would exclude from Gods favour and lodge us in everlasting burnings Rom. 6. ult For the wages of sin is death Q. 12. What are the priviledges and blessings that accompany pardon A. Justification is accompanied with Adoption 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 With the Spirit and Principle of all Grace and Holiness 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 Iesus and by the spirit of our God With an infallible title to Eternal Glory Iohn 3.16 That whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life Rom. 8.30 Whom he justified them he also glorified Q. 13. How may we know that we are pardoned and justified A. Ordinarily by our Sanctification by our loathing of Sin our contempt of the World our valuing of Christ our love and thankfulness to God c. 1 Cor. 6.11 But ye are sanctified Rom. 7.24 O wretched man that I am who shall deliver me from the body of this death Gal. 6.14 By whom the world is crucified unto me and I unto the world 1 Pet. 2.7 Vnto you therefore which believe he is precious Luke 7.47 Her sins which are many are forgiven for she loved much Q. 14. What is meant by Our is it only such sins as we have personally and actually committed A. No but also Adams sin which is ours by imputation Rom. 5.19 By one mans disobedience many were made sinners And original sin which is ours by inhesion Psal. 51.5 Behold I was shapen in iniquity and in sin did my mother conceive me And other mens sins which we have made ours by exciting them to them not hindering of them silence at them and other ways 2 Sam. 12.9 Thou hast killed Vriah the Hittite with the sword and hast taken his wife to be thy wife and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon 1 Tim. 5.22 Neither be partaker of other mens sins Q. 15. Wherefore are sins called debts A. Because they are a non-payment of Gods dues a non-performance of our duty which makes us lyable to the arrest of Death and to the prison of Hell Q. 16. Why do we plead our own forgiveness of others A. Not as any merit of our own pardon but either as an incouragement to our selves to beg pardon seeing such evil envious and malignant persons are enabled to forgive others much more may we hope the good and gracious God will forgive us Or as a condition without which we can have no pardon and with which we shall Mat. 6.14 For if ye forgive men their trespasses your heavenly Father will also forgive you Q. 17. How do others trespass against us A. When they injure us either in our Persons or Names or Families or Estates or Souls c. 1 Sam. 2.25 If one man sin against another the judge shall judge him but if a man sin against the Lord who shall intreat for him Q. 18. Can we forgive our Neighbours freely fully and perfectly as God doth forgive us A. We cannot Q. 19. What then is the meaning of Gods forgiving us as we forgive others A. Not as to the quantity and perfection of forgiveness buâ— as to the sincerity and quality thereof Mat. 18. ult So likewisâ— shall my heavenly father do also unto you if ye from yoar hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses Q. 20. Are we always bound to manifest outwardly our love and forgiveness to all our enemies and to behave our selves towards them as friends A. No if we have experienced them to be