Is there no change of the Elements in the Sacrament A. Yes by way of consecration of them to a new end and office Mat. 26.26 1 Cor. 10.16 not by way of change of the substance bread and wine they were before so they remaine after else there could be no Sacrament and therefore we must shun adoration of the creature lest we offend the Creator by Idolatry Q. What is it in vs that is fedde and nourisht by that food body soule or both A. First with the outward signes signifying Corpus vivens propriè obiectum nutritionis properly the body is nourished or if you will the whole outward man Secondly with the inward grace signified neither body nor soule properly but the inward man called the new man after God created in righteousnes and true holinesse it is a feast for regenerate men onely Ioh. 6.50.51 Eph. 4.24.2.8 to whom Christ First by a secret and sweet working of his spirit offers himselfe to bee that in them which he is for them Secondly in like manner gently but infallibly stirres vp their faith his owne gift to apprehend and apply him so being borne againe and nourisht by one and the same inexplicable meanes Q. Why ought men to come vnto this feast A. First in obedience vnto Christ calling lest they should giue offence vnto him and iustly incurre his displeasure who will admit of no excuses Secondly Math. 22.5.6 7. Heb. 12.23 for that good company they do or should meet there being an assembly of the new borne whose names are written in the booke of life Thirdly for the comforting and refreshing of the inner man Esa 55.1 2. longing after Christ as the hungry stomacke after meate or the parched earth after raine Q. Who are they that doe come and must be admitted to this table A. First none may come but men and women baptized 1 Cor. 11.28.29 endowed with the exercise of of reason and iudgement to discerne the Lords Body Holy from ordinary Bread and Wine Secondly none should come but such as haue sensibly past the pangâ— of the second birth Mat. 22.12 Iohn 13.26.27 conuerts sanctified and iustified Thirdly many doe come vncalled such as are openly prophane hauing neither inward nor outward call from the Church and may expect entertainment accordingly Fourthly more come vnprepared though outwardly called such as are accounted members of a visible Church for their ciuill behauiour going no further and both these last are vnworthy Communicants Q. Is it necessary that men come fasting to this feast A. First no it is not of absolute necessity Luk 22.20 Christ ordained it and the Apostles receiued it after Supper Secondly but as thingâ— now stand it is of commendable conueniency 1 Cor. 11.21.9 27. and vsefull for first fasting wee haue the most sensible freedome and spirituall abilitie to performe any diuine duties in a most cheerefull manner Mat. 6.33 Esay 58.6 Secondly it may be instructiue to vs First to mind vs of seeking and taking spirituall before corporall food daily Secondly that we must faâ—â— from sinne and carnall delights if we will receiue Christ yea to leaue our ordinary repast for him and his sake prouided first that sicke persons be not hindered nor weake censured who cannot hold out to fast so long secondly that superstitious conceits be avoyded which make fasting necessary yea meritorious and eating sinnefull doing it out of a pious deuotion to keepe the flesh in more subiection and such doe best who begin this fast not the morning onely but the day before Quest Doe all receiue benefit that come to this Sacrament A. No but such as come with appetite prepared to receiue and disgest the food there offered Iob 6.35 hauing the new man raised vp and enliued in them by the Spirit of Christ Q. How may a man know whether he hath any spirituall life in him or no Mat. 11.28 A. Fâ—rst by a sence and feeling of spirituall misery Secondly by a longing after and delight in spirituall food Thirdly by heate breath 1 Pet. 2.2 and motion in spirituall employments Rom. 8.5 Fourthly by an vniuersall hatred of sinne which is an enemy to the inner man as poyson is to the outward Q. What is required to be done by such a spirituall man before he come that he may be a worthy communicant A. First examination of himselfe Secondly confession of his sinnes and daily failings Thirdly Humiliation 1 Cor. 11.28 Luke 15.18 19. with contrition for sinne Fourthly application of the promises in speciall Fifthly resolution to continue this renewed reconciliation Quest What is examination Answ It is an impartiall search Psal 119.59 139 23. and an exact tryall of a mans selfe in and about all things necessary or any wayes conducing to Saluation Q. How must a Christian examine himselfe A. First let him retire into some priuate place for that end that he may set himselfe only in the presence of God Psal 4.4 Secondly lâ—â— him endeauour to remoue all impediments 77.6 the fig-leaues of excuses and extenuations that he may throughly see into euery corner of his heart and conscience 139.24 Thirdly let him set open before him the Law of God explained by some experienced diuine Fourthly let him then examine himselfe in foure things more especially Q. Which is the first A. Concerning knowledge which wee haue or ought to haue Iohn 17.3 and â—hat first of God that â—â— iâ— onâ— in essence 2 Cor. 13.5 three in person Father Sonne and Holy Ghost what he hath dâ—ne for vs 2 Iohn 8. and requires of vs. Secondly of our selues and that First in what estate we were created and that was holy and righteous Secondly Eccle. 7.29 Acts 4.12 whether wee did continue so and wofull experience will tell vs no. Iohn 3.16 Thirdly Gal. 4.4 5. how then we hope to escape eternall death which by sinne we haue deserued and that is only by faith in Christ who tooke our nature on him suffering what we deserued to renew his image in vs Heb. 6.1 2. and to redeeme vs captiues from the bondage of Satan Thirdly of the termes of our Art and profession 2 Tim. 1.13 whereof daily vse is made as in the practice of Diuinitie so of Christianitie such are Election Creation Redemption Vocation Conuersion Regeneration Iustification Sanctification Mortification Viuisication Q. What is Election A. It is an vnchanging purpose of God freely choosing from all eternitie out of mankinde dead in sinne some in Christ Iesus vnto saluation Ephe. 1.4 5 6. Ioh. 13.18 to the praise of his rich mercy Q. How may a Christian bee comfortably perswaded of his own election in particular A. First by that dominion and Soueraigntie Christ the head and foundation of election exerciseth in his heart 2 Cor. 13.5 Isa 66.2 working him desirous and wishing to yeeld cheerefull obedience to euery of his known commands Secondly
proposed and maintained by that company with reference still vnto the rule Q. What doe you beleeue of it A. First that it is but one although it may bee diuersly considered Secondly Iohn 10.16 Ephe. 4.4 5. that Christ is the sole head of this Church both in regard of life and gouerment Thirdly 1 Tim. 2.5 Acts 2.47 Mat. 16.18 that I cannot haue God for my Father except I haue this Church for my Mother Fourthly that this Church is free from errour finall and fundamentall so differing from particular visible Churches which consisting of a mixt multitude are apt to erre remoue Q. Is grace vniuersall as the Church is A. Yes rightly vnderstood this Church is not so vniuersall as to containe all men nor grace so vniuersall as to saue all men Q. Cannot a man be wrought out of this Catholike Church being once in it A. No hee is kept by the power of God through faith vnto saluation Ier. 32.4 1 Pet. 1.5 Q. But cannot a man bee wrought out of a particular visible Church A. Yes he may be cast out by two doores First of legall expulsion by that high and fearefull Ecclesiasticall censure of excommunication 1 Cor. 5.2 Math. 16.19 1 Iohn 2.19 rightly ordered Secondly of voluntary separation by heresie schisme or for some gainefully carnall ends Q. How may a man know such a visible Church from which hee can not offensiuely separate A. First by the pure and powerfull preaching of the Word of Christ Secondly Ioh 8.30.47 Acts 2.42 Mat. 18.17 Psal 1.1 2. by a sincere administration of Sacraments according to Christs institution as neere as may be attained Thirdly by a good forme of discipline agreeable to the Word at least in the rules and grounds thereof although there may be many faults and failings in the execution Fourthly by a conscionable practice of obedience in the perfect members of it Q. Is this nationall Church here with vs in England such a one A. Yes as I am fully perswaded hauing all the marks of a sound visible member of the Catholike Church before cited Q. What doe you learne from this confession A. First how vnlikely a thing it is Psa 14.1 2 3 and strange to flesh and blood that there should be any such companie in the world seeing it must be beleeued Rom. 5.12 Acts 2.47 Mat. 10.16.18.17 Ephes 4.1 Secondly the necessitie of getting into and the excellency of being in this Church like Noah Arke wherein none can perish Thirdly wisely to discerne of assemblies therein lest I mistake a den of theeues for the house of God all companies laying claime to the Church Fourthly humbly to submit to her doctrine comparing it still with the rule I may not so beleeue the Church as to take her word before Christs the honour of the Church consisting in her dutifull subiection to him Fifthly continually to behaue my selfe as becomes a child of the Church in all holinesse of life and conuersation Q. How is the Church described A. Two waies First by her properties Holy and Catholike Secondly by her priuiledges set downe to the end of the Creed Communion of Saints remission of sinne resurrection of the flesh and life euerlasting Q. Why is the Church called Holy A. First because of her separation in her members from the prophane multitude in the world Secondly Iohn 15.19 1 Cor. 12.13 Cant. 6.4 Heb. 12.14 Reu. 17.1 2. because of the imputation of holinsse from Christ her Head and Husband who endowed her with all his good things on the marriage day especially faith and loue Thirdly by reason of the inchoation of holy practice and Christs acceptation of her endeauours Fourthly for distinction sake of the Militant from the Malignant Church which is a most prophane and impure companie Q. What doe you learne from this property A. First that if I be in this Church I must be holy particular visible Churches containe a mixt multitude of good and bad Reu. 21.2 27 Psal 93.5 this Catholike Church receiues none but good Secondly as in all places and companies so especially I must manifest holinesse in the Temple and companie of the Saints assembled holinesse becomes Gods house for euer Thirdly sharpely to reprooue Papists for giuing this title and more to the present Pope not only holy but which is a name of blasphemie his holinesse Q. Why is the Church called Catholike A. First because it is disperst ouer the face of the whole earth Secondly Acts 10.34 35. Ephes 2.13 Acts 2.47 it hath been in all ages and shall continue to the end of time Thirdly it containes penitent sinners of all sorts and conditions none simply excluded Fourthly in respect of the truth she teacheth which is Catholike Fifthly to difference her from particular visible Churches whereof no one can be called the Catholike Church Q. What doe you learne from it A. First a lesson of comfort seeing Christ hath prouided so large an Arke to saue his children in let none despaire Hab. 2.3 Esay 26.20 Ezech. 9.4 1 Kin. 19.18 Secondly to reprooue Papists who tye this terme Catholike to the particular Church of Rome against the light and voice of common sence Thirdly what a stay good men haue here against the feare of common corruptions whereby the Lord is prouoked daily The Church is Catholike as God is grieued and dishonoured by wicked men euery where so he is againe well pleased and honoured with the seruice of his children euery where seuen thousand wee reade of that neuer bowed their knees to Baal Q. What is the meaning of this word Communion A. That there is a societie or co-partnership of many together Acts 2 44. Ephes 1.10.4.13 16. 1 Cor. 12.12 13. Heb. 11.40 in the possession and vse of spirituall riches implying three things First vnion with them with whom we haue communion mystically and spiritually knit as members vnder one head Secondly mutuall communication in giuing to one another and receiuing from one another Thirdly an obligation or tie to employ all our strength and gifts to the good of the whole bodie Q. Who are meant by Saints here A. Not the dead onely much lesse such as are canonized by the Roman Bishop Rom. 1.7 1 Cor. â— 2 2 Tim. 2.19 but all that are in Christ sanctified by his Spirit and washt in his blood whether dead and liuing Q. Why are they called Saints A. First because of their separation from the rest of the world who are heartie enemies to sanctifie and holy walking by an effectuall calling Secondly 2 Cor. 6.17 Heb. 7.26 1 Cor. 6.2 by reason of the imputation of Christs holinesse in number waight and measure to all his members Thirdly in regard of their inherent though imperfect sanctification wrought in them by the Spirit of God in the vse of his Ordinances Fourthly in respect of their right to a Saint-ship in glorie Q. How many parts are there of this Communion A. Two First of
all the Saints with Christ their Head Secondly amongst themselues one member with another Q. Wherein consists the Communion of Saints with Christ A. In two things First in that Christ giues some things to them which are his as his Bodie and Blood Gal. 1.4 Esay 53.4 Acts 9.4 Spirit and Graces Crowne and Kingdome Secondly in that Christ takes somethings vnto himselfe which belong vnto them as sin punishment persecution Q. What Communion is there among the Saints themselues Acts 2.44.4.32 A. Threefold First among those Saints that are in the Militant Church a communion of affection profession afflictions and distribution both of spirituall gifts and worldly wealth for the mutual reliefe one of another Rom. 12.13.16.2 Iohn 17.21 Reu. 5.12 Luke 16.29 Secondly amongst those Saints which are in the triumphant part of the Church there is a Communion of vision consolation action or employment Thirdly betweene both these on earth and those in heauen there is a Communion First in that the Saints in Heauen doe heartily affect the welfare of those on earth generally at least Secondly Phil. 3.20 Reu. 5.8 in that the Saints on earth haue their consolation in Heauen earnestly desiring a dissolution to enioy their company Q. What is it to beleeue this Communion of Saints A. First Heb. 12.22 to acknowledge such a society whereof Christ is head Secondly Eph. 4.12 13 to be perswaded I am a member thereof Thirdly to reioyce in it as if I saw a most delightfull sight Fourthly to resolue neuer to forsake it what euer come Q. Suppose a man be out how may hee get into this Communion A. First by regeneration Iohn 3.5 for except a man be borne from a-aboue he cannot see the Kingdome of God Secondly Luke 14.33 9.62 Math. 7.21 hee must then forsake all other societies that are contrary Thirdly he must be bound vnto them as an apprentise for terme of life Fourthly he must faithfully promise and seasonably performe the worke of that companie Q. How may a man know hee is admitted into this society A. First by his humiliation and reformation none are bound many made free of this companie Ioh. 8.34 36 Secondly by that inward combate he shall after find in him against sinne Satan and wicked men 1 Ioh. 2.15 Thirdly by the earnest of the Spirit receiued at his admission 1 Iohn 4.13.3.14.1.6 7. Fourthly by his loue to that societie and compassion of them in all their sufferings Fifthly by his heauenly conuersation his language apparell and behauiour is such as they vse Q. What doe you learne hence Col. 1.18 A. First that there haue beene are and shall be till the end such a societie in the world consisting of Christ and Christians Secondly the necessity of cleauing to this corporation Iohn 15.5 Psal 16.3 although it be contemned and opposed will any free towne burne their Charter or be ashamed of their Priuiledges because the countrie people enuie and maligne them Thirdly Eph. 4.3 Mark 8.38 to acknowledge it with respectiue affection where euer I see or beleeue it 1 Thess 5.14 15. as the onely representation of Heauen Fourthly to seeke the good of this companie by all possible meanes comforting some reprouing others praying for all Fifthly Heb 13.1 1 Thes 5.13 I learne that neither distance of place nor meanenesse of condition can dissolue or hinder this Communion it is the Catholike Church Lastly to liue in loue and peace with Gods people reioycing in their companie aboue all others Q. Which is the tenth Article A. The forgiuenesse of sinnes Q. What doth it containe A. A second priuiledge of the Church to haue sinnes remitted vnto her and to be an instrument whereby this fauour is procured to others Q. What is the meaning of this Article A. First that there are sinnes in the Church euen among the Communion of Saints Cant. 1.5 Num. 23.21 Secondly that all sinnes are remissible to that societie and onely to them Thirdly 1 Ioh. 1.8 9. that good Christians are to beleeue both the being of sinne in the Church and forgiuenesse thereof to the Church Q. What is sinne 1 Iohn 3.4 A. A transgression of the Diuine Law in thought word or deed A. How many sorts of sinne are there A. Many originall actuall of omission and commission of knowledge and ignorance of weakenesse and presumption c. Q. What is remission of sinne A. It is an effect of Gods loue vnto his Church Ier. 33.8 Ezec. 18.22 Col. 1.21 22 whereby he acquits his chosen from the guilt of sinne through the infinite merit of Christs sacrifice so that they stand vnspotted and vndefiled in his sight as if they had neuer sinned Q. What is it to beleeue the forgiuenes of sinne A. First to acknowledge such a power in God that he is able to doe it Secondly Math. 8.2.19.26 to assent to the truth of God reuealed in Scripture for the manner of it Thirdly 2 Sam. 12 1â— to be perswaded vpon good grounds that I am one of the number to whom this priuiledge belongs Fourthly to labour daily during health and life Acts 2.38.3.19 either to procure or to renew and continue it to me Q. Who can forgiue sinne A. He onely against whose law sinne is committed Marke 2.5 and that is God for who can forgiue sin but God onely Q. Cannot men and Ministers forgiue sinne A. No yet thus much is taught vs. Mat. 18.21 22. Luke 24 47. Iohn 20.23 First that men may remit an offence giuen them by any of their brethren not the sinne committed thereby against God Secondly men may be instruments whereby remission of sinne is procured Thirdly Ministers may declare Gods will and pronounce the sentence of remission vpon condition if men presume to goe further they trench vpon Gods prerogatiue Q. How is sin remitted Esay 43.25 Iohn 20.13 A. Principally by the Lord himselfe acquitting the sinner blotting out the sinne and couering both with the imputation of Christs righteousnesse instrumentally by his Ordinances and Messengers preaching praying 1 Pet. 3.21 and administring Sacraments Q. How may a man get remission of sinne A. By repentance and conuersion Acts 2.38.3.19 Mat. 11.28 for first there must be a sense and feeling of the burden of sinne Secondly a free and full confession Thirdly selfe condemnation with hatred and detestation of sinne Fourthly 1 Iohn 1.9 heartie supplication for pardon in and through Christ Psal 51.1 2 c. Fifthly a purpose to leaue all knowne euill withall appearance of euill Q. How may a Christian be assured in some good measure of it A. First Acts 15.9 Esay 1.18 Prou. 28.13 Iohn 15.3 by faith in the promises seeing and beleeuing what the Lord hath spoken in his Word to this end Secondly by answerable reformation of life in obedience to Gods knowne will Thirdly by spirituall strength and power ouer sinne in the
bread Prou. 27.7 being all for drinke and Tobacco Q. Which is the fift petition we are to direct to our Father which is in heauen A. And forgiue vs our trespasses as we forgiue them that trespasse against vs. Q. What is the meaning of this petition Luke 16.10 A. First that he onely who doth rest vpon the prouidence of God for the feeding of his bodie may and can indeed relye vpon the mercy of God for the good of his soule in the pardon of sinne if we distrust him for the first being lesser we cannot trust him for the second being greater Math. 6.33 Secondly that men euen the children of God doe often offend in the abuse of temporall blessings Thirdly that as we desire and receiue bread daily Iob 1.5 so it is our dutie to pray daily for the pardon of such offences Luke 16.19 Fourthly that men out of charitie with their brethren haue no present right to the creatures Mat. 18.34 35. nor hope of pardon remaining such we desire bread and remission vpon condition Q. How many parts are there in this praier A. Two First the petition it selfe forgiue vs our trespasses or debts Secondly the condition As wee forgiue them that trespasse against vs. Q. What are we to vnderstand by trespasses or debts here A. Mat. 6.11 Euery sinne committed by the sonnes of men against the law of God is a trespasse or debt and that First Luke 7.41 because thereby we violate the law and so iniure the law-maker Eze. 18.4 Secondly in euery sinne we denie to pay him what is his due from vs by vertue of a bond in Baptisme i. Obedience 3. Mat. 18.24 because euery sinne bindes ouer the sinner to satisfaction or punishment Q. What is it to forgiue trespasses A. First to pardon the offence committed Secondly not to exact dammages nor inflict punishment deserued according to the Law Matth. 18.27 Ier. 31.34 Thirdly to forget all iniuries as if they had neuer beene Iam. 1.5 Fourthly to accept the satisfaction of Christ imputing his purchased righteousnesse vnto vs Ezech. 18.22 whereby we stand in his sight as in our created integritie Mat. 3.17 the holy and righteous children of God Q. What is it then wee desire in this petition Iob 6.24 Psal 51 3 4. A. First grace to see and acknowledge our wrongs and iniuries done against our Father with griefe and shame Secondly Mat. 18.25 that hee would mercifully consider the impossibility in vs by reason of our pouertie to yeeld him any other recompence Iohn 1.29 Thirdly that hee would looke vpon his owne Sonne with purpose of acceptation of him for vs Iob 33.24 Rom. 8.16 of vs in him Fourthly that he would seale the assurance thereof to our soules by the euidence of his spirit Phil. 3.8 9. Ephes 4.30 enabling vs by faith to apprehend it Q. Why are wee so earnestly to desire pardon A. First that we may escape deserued iudgements and be saued Secondly Ier. 4.14 the soule is more comforted and eased by the pardon of sinne Matth. 11.28 29. then euer the body was or can be delighted with any creature Thirdly because it is a heauie miserable and bitter thing to liue any one day out of the fauour of God Fourthly Ier. 2.19.18.23 without this we can enioy no blessings of God in mercy Mat. 18.32 our table will turne to a snare Fifthly because it is granted to none but such as heartily seeke it with paines praiers and teares Q. What may wee learne hence A. First that we doe sinne against God in the breach of his Law daily Eccl. 7.20 Secondly it is sinne onely that makes our bread bitter vnto vs and our life vncomfortable Esay 59.2 Thirdly that offended iustice is now satisfied by the passion of Christ 2 Kings 4.4 and sinne is pardonable 1 Iohn 1.9 Fourthly sanctification is imperfect here there are sinnes committed and remitted after baptisme 2 Cor. 7.1 regeneration and iustification Heb. 2.17 obtained of God freely for Christ his sake 4.16 without respect to humane merit or satisfaction Fifthly to haue recourse boldly vnto the throne of Grace by the Kings fauourite to sue out our pardon and make euen with God daily Math. 5.24 that our account may bee easie at the last day Sixthly to put vp our prayers for others euen our enemies as for our selues Q. What must wee doe that this petition may be granted A. First all particular trespasses knowne vnto vs must bee confest Secondly Psal 32.5 1 Iohn 1.9 there must be a manifestation of hearty sorrow by some outward acts Thirdly Mat. 26.75 promise and performance of amendement with detestation of such courses Fourthly an apprehension of pardon by the hand of faith Prou. 28.13 offered in the promises Fifthly Mar. 10.52 a publication of this pardon to our accusers with ioy couenanting to shunne temptations and all future occasions of euill Rom. 8.33 Sixthly Math 6.15 we must performe the condition here exprest to forgiue all offences committed against vs by our brethren As we forgiue them that trespasse against vs. Q. What are wee to vnderstand by this condition A. First no equality for power and perfection of remission Mat. 18.23 but onely a conformity for the truth and sincerity thereof Secondly Ephe. 4.32 that it is a signe marke and an assured testimony Luke 6.37 God hath and will pardon vs if wee for Christ his sake can pardon our brethren so farre forth as wee stand bound by Law Q. What doth this condition presuppose A. First that Neighbours may offend and trespasse one another daily Mat. 18.7 and that they should arme themselues accordingly 1 Cor. 3.4 5. Secondly that it is a harsh matter to flesh and bloud to passe by and put vp iniuries Thirdly Marke 11.25 26. that the consideration of our sinnes against God his mercy to vs should prepare and keepe vs in readinesse to pardon one another often in all manner of trespasses Q. If all trespasses must bee forgiuen how then can wee goe to law with our brethren for trespasses A. Not without griefe that we are put to that extremity and feare least we offend therein these rules obserued First let all priuate and faire meanes be vsed 1 Cor. 6.7 first with some expectation after warning of voluntary satisfaction Secondly Mat. 18.15 we must prepare our hearts before banishing pride Rom. 12.18 malice and desire of reuenge vse plaine and lawfull meanes ayming at the right ends chiefely that right may be restored offenders reformed and peace maintained Thirdly during the suit wee must be still ready and willing to accept of submission though it be to our owne hinderance Q. What doth this teach vs A. First he that will haue mercy must shew mercy Secondly Iam. 2.13 Mat. 18.22 that wee must forgiue
and pray that yee enter not into temptation or if ye doe enter Matt 26.41 put on the whole armour of God that yee may stand it out and goe home with victorie Q. I am so tempted as neuer man was finde no rest day nor night what shall become of mee A. First that is not true 1 Cor. 10.13 there hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man Iam. 1.2 12. Gods children haue felt the like Secondly endeauour to make a good vse of such temptations and be not discouraged Satans hatred may assure vs of Gods loue temptations make experientest Diuines and Christians Rom. 16.19 20. Thirdly bee patiently constant in the vse of ordinary meanes and expect victorie God will not suffer you to be tempted aboue that yee are able with the temptation will make a way to escape and treade downe Satan shortly Q What must I do in a temptation A. First consider the author and danger whether it be from God Eccl. 4.10 Satan men or your owne hearts preparing accordingly Secondly abide not long alone acquaint your fellow souldiers with your condition Thirdly looke vp vnto Christ your Captaine Heb. 2.18 and if you feare the losse of that iewell your heart giue it wholly vnto him who is able and willing to keepe it Q. But I haue beene ouercome and vanquisht in this and that temptation what shall I doe A. First Psal 137.1 weepe and mourne as the Hebrewes did in their Babilonish captiuitie remembring Zion Secondly desire freedome Iohn 8.11 in the vse of meanes Thirdly be wise and warie to shun the like Q. What may wee learne from this petition thus explained A. First that no man is compel'd but tempted onely to sinne Secondly Iames 1.14 1 Cor. 10.12 that men in the state of grace haue need still to looke vnto themselues let him that stands take heed lest he fall 1 Thes 3.5 temptation followes remission of sinne Thirdly Mat. 11.28 that Satan with his instruments are continuall temptors yet their malice and power is limited Fourthly Gal. 6.1 that there is no burden like vnto sinne nor griefe like a distressed conscience Fifthly that Gods children are daily subiect to be tempted and must pray daily against it Ier. 10.23 to haue their soules knit vnto God their hearts seasoned with grace and establisht by his free Spirit whose desire shall bee granted Q. Which is the seuenth and last petition A. But deliuer vs from euill Q. What is the meaning of this petition Acts 8.23 A. First that sinne is a bondage to the soule our Church teacheth vs to pray 2 Pet. 2.9 Though we be tied and bound with the chaine of our sinnes yet let the pittifulnesse of thy great mercy loose vs. Luke 22.32 Secondly that Gods children penitent and pardoned may be tempted and not ouercome Heb. 2.18 Thirdly if it fall out they be vanquisht Rom. 6.7 as it may be yet there remaines still hope of freedome there is a deliuerer Fourthly Phil. 4.13 that corruption remaining in the regenerate is the moouing cause to temptation 2.13 at one time shall we bee freed from sin and temptation Fifthly that we haue no power in or of our selues to free our selues from either Ier. 10.23 all our strength is in and from the Lord. Q. What are we to vnderstand by euill here A. First the euill of sinne in euery kind open secret Mat. 9.4 of omission and commission Secondly of punishment Amos 3.6 and that is threefold First present here onely with an euill heart and eye with euill men and women Mat. 6.23 and with the euill tongues of both 12.29 with the euill of deserued iudgements persecutions crosses visitations which separate and hinder vs in the seruice of God Zeph. 3.15 so making our life grievous and incomfortable vnto vs. Secondly future hereafter onely Iohn 7.7.17.15 with the euill of losse and of paine vnder eternall death with the torments following if we be not deliuered 1 Pet. 4 15. Thirdly both present and to come bringing vs into bondage here to vexe vs hereafter as all spirituall enemies to Christ mysticall Gal. 1.4 the euill world with the Arch-euill and enemy to all goodnesse Satan Math. 5.37 Some part of our English Liturgie yeelds an ample exposition vpon this petition Q. What is it to deliuer from euill A. First to enable vs against the power of all euill generally Eph. 6.12 1 Cor. 10.13 Secondly to eschew such as are fallen or in eminent danger of falling Esay 57.1 Thirdly either to take the euill from vs or vs from the euill 2 Sam. 24.25 Rom. 8.28 Fourthly by moderation so to alter the nature thereof that it prooue not euill to vs. Fifthly to hasten and perfect the worke of grace with glory putting an end to temptation Q. What doe you desire of God in this petition A. First that in all temptations wee may neither doe nor suffer euill Secondly 1 Pet. 4.15 1 Cor. 10.13 that hee would not leaue vs to lye ouer long vnder any temptation 2 Thes 3.2 Psal 25.22 Thirdly to succour vs against the world of euill men vnreasonably malicious and furiously tyrannous Fourthly so to mitigate all other troubles wee meet with heere 1 Chr. 4.10 that they neuer ouerwhelme vs. Fifthly to preuent vs with his restraining grace Zach. 3.2 when we are about to yeeld and to plucke vs as brands out of the fire Sixtly to remooue vs in his time from all euill simply both of sinne and punishment Q. Why are wee to pray for such a deliuerance A. First because wicked men onely lye contentedly vnder the power of euill 1 Ioh. 5.19 Secondly many and great are the euils we doe and may meet with betweene the wombe and the graue Psal 34.19 Rom. 7.19 Thirdly euill is more delightfull to our corrupt nature then good Ier. 6.15 and so the more dangerous Fourthly it is a thing most odious to be done and intolerable to be suffered 2 Chr. 20.12 Fifthly vnlesse we be deliuered we shall be ouerwhelmed with euils and perish eternally we haue need to cry and seeke who shall deliuer vs from this bodie of death Q. How doth God deliuer his children A. Diuers waies according to the quality of the euill vnder which they are Iohn 3.16 as First by the death of his Sonne paying a ransome for our great deliuerance Secondly Psal 34.7.5.10 by the ministerie of Angels and men Thirdly by a destruction of their enemies scattering their forces confounding their plots Dan. 3.27 Fourthly by restraining the naturall properties of his creatures Zeph. 2.3 fire and water c. Fifthly by prouiding a sanctuary Esay 57.1 whither his children may flie against a storme as he did for Noah and Lot Sixtly by death calling them from all cause and feare of euill
1 Pet. 4.3 be more wisely zealous in good then euer you were foolishly forward in euill courses Eccles 12.1 2 Tim. 3.15 Fifthly let young men and women to preuent this feare and trouble seeke their Creatour in the dayes of their youth least a custome in euill presenting a pretended impossibility driue you to this straight to doubt whether it be better to turne for heauen or to despaire and so drop downe to destruction Q. What is regeneration A. A Christians second birth wherein he hath the new man raised vp in him Iohn 3.3 1 Pet. 1.23 the Image of God repaired spirituall life infused and the seed of euery necessary grace reimplanted Q. How by whom and when is regeneration wrought A. First Iohn 3.5 the principall agent is the Spirit of God infusing the habite of grace into all the powers of the soule 1 Pet. 1.23 so inabling and disposing it to all holy motions and operations 1 Iohn 3.9 Secondly the instruments whereby are of three sorts First simply spirituall such is the actiue quality of grace giuing a power to doe good by the first act and called preuenting grace stirring vp the will to make vse of that power by a second act Ephes 2.8 called working grace Acts 18.27 enabling the whole to manifest that power and will indeed by a third act and then called coworking or assisting grace 1 Cor. 15.10 Tit. 2.11 1 Cor. 4.15 Secondly morall such is the Sacrament of Regeneration Thirdly naturall such are Ministers faithfully dispensing the Mysteries of God in the promulgation of the Gospell of Christ 1 Pet. 1.23 Ioh. 10.10 Thirdly the roote and seed whence this new life flowes is Christ and his Word as head deriuing life to the members of his mysticall Body by meanes of his humanity the quickning power being in and from his Deity Eccle. 11.5 Fourthly the manner is hidden and secret Iohn 3.8 Christs incarnation points out the manner of our regeneration The Holy Ghost ouer-shaddowes the soule and by his quickning power frames the new man insensibly of immortall seed thus much onely we may know First there is a disposition by way of preparation all lets are remoued Secondly a conception by a Vnion of grace with nature in the soule Thirdly a growth graduall in diuers parts diuersly as in an infant Fourthly a birth in the manifestation of this life by a regular motion in spirituall imployments Fiftly the time is at once instantly whensoeuer it is no certainety when reuealed nor set time appointed some at one time by one ordinance some at another time by another Q. Are not all men regenerate onely in and by the Sacrament of Regeneration in Baptisme A. No for first some haue had and many haue the grace of Regeneration before they could come to make vse of that or any other Sacrament liuing and dying neuer sensible of any change in them Secondly others haue and may receiue the seede of Grace in and with the Sacrament sowne then in their hearts Ier. 1.5 may lye hid vnder the clods of naturall corruption 1 Pet. 3.21 and spring vp long after by the power of spirituall raine and heat Thirdly a third sort may haue it neither before nor in Baptisme and yet receiue it after by the vse of some other ordinance thus might Simon Magus Acts 9.22 had he repented and truely beleeued after his baptisme the Lord is a free agent may bestow his grace when and how he pleaseth willing men to yeeld honour and respect to all his ordinances Quest How may a Christian doubting be comfortably perswaded of his Regeneration Ans First let him looke backe vpon and receiue comfort from his Baptisme which did certainely bring some good to his soule Secondly let him take notice of the ordinary manner of the manifestation Gal. 3.27 thereof not without pangs Acts 2.37 paine and griefe more or lesse in all Thirdly let him especially looke vnto the effects fruits and consequents of Regeneration which are diuers 1 Iohn 5.1 as first faith in the Lord Iesus that he is the Christ Secondly 1 Iohn 3.14 1 Iohn 4.7 loue of God his ordinances and seruants Thirdly hatred of sinne Rom. 7.23 1 Iohn 3.9 and worldly corruptions as offensiue to our mercifull Father Fourthly a combate of the spirit against the flesh with victory Fiftly 2 Cor. 5.17 a new life he liues new food desired and new company delighted in Question What is Iustification A. First it is a sentence of God as Iudge wherein the beleeuing sinner receiues a full and free discharge from the guilt of sinne Rom. 8.33 3.30 in regard of condemning power Psal 32 1 2 and the consequents thereof Secondly an acceptation of their persons as perfectly righteous 2 Cor. 5.19 Luk. 22.29 by the imputation of Christs merits giuen to them Rom. 3.28 enabled by him to receiue them Thirdly a declaration of their right to the heauenly inheritance with Christ in glory Iam. 2.24 all apprehended by faith as the instrument manifested to men by good workes as the fruits Q. How may a Christian bee comfortably perswaded this sentence is thus pronounst on his side A. First by that appearance he may remember hee hath and doth daily make with a bleeding heart and trembling soule before the Iudgement Seate of God crying guiltie guiltie accusing condemning himself like the prodigall Father I haue sinned against heauen Luk. 15.18 against thee and am no more worthy c. Secondly by that appeale hee hath in his owne thoughts made from the throne of Iustice to the Mercy Seat Heb. 4.16 begging earnestly for mercy and pardon in and through Iesus Christ Thirdly Rom. 1.17 by that life he after liues through Faith beleeuing what hee seeth not hoping for what is deferred and louing God when hee frownes vpon him in some temporall crosse or spirituall conflict Fourthly Rom. 5.1 by that inward peace which followes being iustified by faith we haue peace with God Fifthly by that account hee makes in his owne estimation of Christs righteousnesse 2 Tim. 4.8 resting vpon it and longing after his second comming Quest What is Sanctification A. It is a worke of the Spirit and Word of God Ioh. 17.17 whereby first men truely conuerted are cleansed from their naturall corruption 1 Cor. 6.11 in regard of the reigning power thereof Secondly whereby originall Iustice is in part restored and inherent righteousnesse wrought in them 2 Thes 2.13 graciously disposing their formerly vngracious hearts to the performance of holy duties though with much weakenesse and many fallings for sanctification during this life is imperfect and in a word it is in the regenerate a growing vp more and more in the new man which is according vnto holinesse Quest How many parts are there of Sanctification Ans Two Mortification Vivification Rom. 6.4 First Mortification which is a destruction
by degrees of the body of sinne Ephes 4.22 an abolishing of the power of naturall corruption Col. 3.5 Rom. 6.12 13. the guilt whereof was taken away in Baptisme by the efficacy of Christs death if after wee set our selues against the corrupt motions of the flesh Secondly Ephes 4.23 24 25. Viuification which is a renouation of vs in the Spirit of our mindes when Christ by vertue of his Resurrection raises vs vp to be fit temples for him to dwell and rule in by his Spirit Question How may a Christian discerne this worke in himselfe that it is begunne in him A. First by a hearty dislike of himselfe for sinne griefe following euery knowne offence desiring as earnestly to haue power ouer sinne as pardon Secondly 2 Cor. 7.11 by a diligent studie to learne the grounds 2. Pet. 3.15 Col. 3.2 and readinesse of mind to giue an account of that hope which is in him with meekenesse and feare Thirdly Phil. 3.20 Rom. 7.18 Heb. 12.14 by his heauenly mindednesse being freed from the heauy drosse though not from the being of sinne Rom. 6.22 the soule mounts vpward with ease Tit. 2.3 2 Cor. 7.1 Fourthly by a sensible feeling of the want of holynesse grieuing and seeking to haue it encreasâ—d Fifthly by humilitie and frequency in holy duties with delight hauing his thoughts words and deeds answerably holy at least in desire Sixtly by a loue of holynesse in others Q What is conscience Iohn 8.9 Rom. 2.15 2 Cor. 1.12 Answ It is an vnseparable power of the soule continually obseruing and by reflection applying to iudge impartially of euery action past with the manner of doing according to the rules of right reason Q. How is conscience rectified and made good to vs A. First by an act on Gods part Heb. 10.12 9.14 which is a worke of the spirit sanctifying and so restoring the soule to her first regularitie nothing can worke well as God would haue it Acts 24.16 vnlesse it bee such as God made it Secondly by a duty on our part which is earnest prayer finding conscience irregular ignorant secure or seared that the Lord would renew rectifie and guide it to all wholesome motions and operations Q. How may such a rectified good conscience be knowne A. By a speaking power it hath to determine aright of good and euill Rom. 2.15 1. Tim. 4.2 Psal 141.5 Gen. 39.9 Rom. 13.5 stirring vp and restraining excusing and accusing accordingly Secondly by an inward delight in a piercing ministery that wakens and sets conscience a working Thirdly by tendernesse not daring to follow a common custome without warrant abstaining from gainefull corruptions and suffering for conscience sake Q. How may wee keepe it in this good order 2 Sam. 24.10 Psal 119.9 Gal. 6.16 1 Tim. 1.19 A First by hearkning to the voyce thereof acquainting our selues therewith by frequent conference and examination least we be strangers at home and know it not Secondly by referring the dictates of conscience to a superiour rule comparing her sentence with the Word of God lest we make an Idoll thereof Thirdly by esteeming the integrity and tranquillitie thereof in a peaceable purity aboue all riches and treasure in the world Fourthly by cleauing to the plainest and safest side in all doubtfull cases Q. What doe you vnderstand by the terme Church Mat. 7.47 Reu. 12.1 A. First a mixt multitude of men and women baptized professing Christ in the vse of his ordinances performing or faining to performe conformity in practice Luk. 12.32 called commonly the visible Church Secondly a dispersed and despised company of men and women Acts 14.22 rich in faith called by the Word to haue Vnion and Communion with Christ their head in the profession of his Gospell and vse of his Sacraments striuing through many afflictions to enter the Kingdome of Heauen called the inuisible Church Q. What is Christian Religion A. An holy meanes appointed by Christ in his Word for the knitting of his seruants vnto him in all religious duties Iames 1.27 Heb 9.1 the seruice consisting specially in workes of piety purity and charity ioyned with knowledge and loue of the true God Q. Who are true Christians and professors indeed of this Religion A. True Christians are First Rom. 8.29 Ier. 31.3 all such as are the obiects of Gods free loue and mercy in Christ though they neuer liued actually to know Christ or professe his truth Acts 10.35.17.17 Secondly all such as knowing Christ doe loue and beleeue in him although neuer baptized nor called into a visible Church Thirdly all such as knowing and beleeuing doe confesse Christ and professe his truth with zeale and knowledge yeelding due respect to all Christs Ordinances and growing by them Rom. 10.10 Luke 1.6 Psa 119.5 6 allowing themselues in no knowne sinne conscionable in priuate as in publike duties louing helping and encouraging one another Q Is there no Atheisme and irreligiousnesse among Christians in the profession of their Religion A. Yes much in many hauing a name an outward forme and nothing else Acts 5.1 2.3 4 5. which comes to passe by reason First of that deceitfull sinne of hypocrisie whereby men dissemble with God and the world Math. 13.5 deceiuing sometimes their owne hearts Secondly of neutralitie lukewarmnesse and indifferencie Reu. 3.15 16. when men relye vpon their ciuill honestie morall iustice and will goe no further comming short of Heauen Thirdly Iohn 6.64 Rom. 2.24 of infidelitie concerning Gods omnipresency omnipotencie and veritie of his Word in promises and threatnings many want faith that make a faire show in all things else Fourthly of open prophanenesse liuing worse then the worst Heathens so drawing the blacke cloud of scandall ouer the brightnesse of our Christian faith such after admonition should be remooued Q. What is hypocrisie A. It is a glorious pietie without gracious sinceritie and is twofold First grosse Mat. 23.27.19.21 22. whereby a man deceiues other men not himselfe knowing he is not what he appeares to be nor indeed heartily desires it Secondly refined and formall whereby a man deceiues others and himselfe also Q. How may an hypocrite be knowne A. It is verie difficult for in all outward duties he may Mat. 6.20 and doth goe as farre for a time as the soundest Christian professing hearing Mat. 23.23 praying and yeelding some spirituall fruits so passing the ciuill honest man many degrees but may be thus discerned First hee is verie strict in small matters in weightier taking any libertie 2 Sam. 15.30 which may stand with his reputation Secondly he is heartily greedie after preheminencie worldly pompe and glorie 3 Iohn 9. a blocke which a formall hypocrite can neuer leape ouer if religion be so strict as to crosse his preferment he is so bold as to crosse out that part of religion Mat. 7.3 4. Thirdly hee is much employed in searching
without any ground trouble or doubting it makes men confident and impudent Fifthly by barrennesse Iames 2.26 it is a solitarie faith fruitlesse in euery regard and as the bodie without the spirit is dead so faith without workes is dead also Q. What is Repentance A. It is a supernaturall grace Math. 9.13 Acts 26.10 2 Cor. 7.9 10. whereby a sorrowfull beleeuing sinner is brought backe from the loue and practice of sinne vnto the loue and seruice of God with a stedfast purpose neuer to returne againe Q. How may a Christian know he hath truely repented A. First by those formerly mentioned fruits of faith from which repentance is vnseparable being one of them Esay 30.21 Psa 51.3 14. Secondly by a voice inward outward or both he may remember hee hath sometime heard 1 Tim. 1.3 Iob 34.32 minding him to know and acknowledge how farre and how long hee hath gone astray Thirdly by inward griefe for sinne seducing him 2 Cor. 7.11 testified by some outward acts distinguishing and grieuing most for his greatest sins yet forsaking all Fourthly by a speedie full and orderly though imâ—erfect breaking off all wicked courses with holy anger and detestation Fifthly by a constant feare and care to goe the right way for the time to come Reu. 2.5 Luke 13.3 Reu. 2.21 enquiring often Sixtly by renewed affections and reformed aâ—tions Seuenthly by continuing and renewing this grace euerie day after the first act thereof he neuer repented any day that doth not repent euery day sinne is not outed wholly but weakned only by repentance Q. Can a man repent of a sin and yet continue in it or any other knowne A. No it is not possible the verie nature of repentance consisting in humiliation and reformation of all wholly or of none truely Q. But may not a Christian repent of a sinne fall into the same againe yet repent after A. It is a dangerous thing to relapse into sinnes once repented of Mat 18.22 yet vpon true and serious repentance againe we doe beleeue there is pardon to bee obtained First because the Lord commands man to forgiue his brother one sinne often which implies a possibilitie in man to repent and a readinesse in God to forgiue Luke 17.4 Mat. 11.28 Ezek. 18.21.22 Secondly Gods promises are indefinite to all and as often as they turne in season Thirdly but it will be heauie and bitter all former labour in searching weeping and praying must bee doubled what wise man will buy toies at so deare a rate Q. What are most contrary to faith and repentance A. First affected ignorance with infidelitie Rom. 2.5 1 Kin. 21.27 Math. 27.3 Secondly hard-heartednesse impuritie with crueltie Thirdly impenitencie when men cannot doe not repent Fourthly faigned repentance in the ceremonie not in the substance being outward onely in part when men change with age one for another sinne Fifthly despaire of mercie which comes vnlookt for in the last place Q. How are these graces wrought in Christians A. Ordinarily by the preaching of the Gospell Rom. 10.17 1 Cor. 1.21 which being accompanied with Gods Spirit is a blessed meanes powerfull to saluation men that despise sight or liue vnprofitably vnder it haue yet no part nor portion in this businesse it hath pleased God by the foolishnesse of preaâ—hing to saue those that beleeue and faith comes by hearing Q. Supposing this search if a Christian finde none of these graces in him what must he then doe A. First 1 Cor. 11.29 Mat. 22.11 if hee finde them not neither in exercise nor heartie desire let him abstaine from comming to the Communion why should he draw vpon him a further guilt of Christs blood and drinke downe iudgement Secondly let him speedily endeauour to procure them that he may be fit to come finding himselfe vnworthy he must not continue so Q. Which is the second duty necessary for our preparation before we come to the Communion A. Confession of those sins which by examination are found to be in vs Psal 32.5 Iames 5.16 which commonly euer goes before remission and reconciliation Q. What is confession A. It is a voluntary verball expression of all our rebellious courses Psal 51.3 4. Ios 7.21 22. and knowne transgressions before the Iudgement Seat of God Q. What must we confesse Dan. 9.8 A. Two things First our guilt drawne vpon vs by the breach of Gods Law Rom. 6.23 Secondly our desert which is eternall death and damnation in hell if we accuse our selues Satan cannot if we iudge our selues God will not Q. How may confession bee made A. In order As first of originall sinne Psal 51.5 Ephes 2.3 committed by our first Parents and secretly propagated to all their posterity Psal 51.14 1 Tim. 1.13 Secondly of actuall sinnes from our first beginning till the present houre Thirdly especially of those sinnes whereby God hath beene most dishonoured our consciences wounded and our soules most defiled 1 Cor. 15.9 with an aggrauation of them by the circumstances of time place persons liuing vnder the meanes and against knowledge Fourthly of all knownâ— grâ—sse sinnes particularly by name and of sinnes vnknowne generally yet not carelesly and at randome but intentiuely as though afâ—â—r long search we saw a farre 〈◊〉 â—any more innumerable Q. To whom must wee make our confession A. First Ios 7.19 Psal 51.4 to God our Father in Christ with hope and desire of pardon both in our publike and priuate prayers Secondly to men and so first to the whole Church if at any time a sentence bee past against vs by them for some notorious scandall Secondly to any of the Church priuately offended by vs. Thirdly Acts 19.18 Iames 5 16. to the Pastor and Teacher of the Church liceÌ„st of God to be the soules Physician Q. Is auricular confession to men necessary A. First absolutely considered it is not some could not or had no need to make it Mat. 26.75 others haue beene and may be saued without it Secondly respectiuely and vpon some conditions it may be Ios 7.19 Matth. 5.23 24. as first if we see plainely how God may bee glorified by it any way Secondly if we know we haue iniured our Brother and done him wrong in goods or good name Iam. 5.6 Thirdly if our consciences be so troubled that wee cannot answer nor pacifie them we are bound to craue helpe by confession either to any experienst Christian or to a faithfull practiced Minister in both whom are required compassion fidelitie and secrecie Q. What benefit comes by confession A. Much euery way First God is thereby glorified Ios 7.19 if it be heartie and well ordered Secondly 2 Sam. 12.13 Psal 30.11 the sinner confessing is more humbled Thirdly the mind is greatly eased Fourthly pardon is attained if we confesse our sins God is faithfull and iust to forgiue them Pro. 28.13 vncouer your sinnes by confession 1 Iohn 1.9
sanctified sorrow breeds lasting peace Secondly Esa 66.2 it moues compassion in God towards vs as to his labouring people in Aegypt and Manasses in prison Exod. 3.7 Thirdly Esa 66.3 it seasons all our spirituall sacrifices and makes vs more fearefull to displease God Fourthly Prou. 23.13 14. it weanes vs from the loue of the world frees vs from eternall death beat thy childe with the rod and thou shalt deliuer his soule from hell and is a certaine fore-runner of glorie a great comfort to all heauie hearts and deiected soules yeelding the peaceable fruit of righteousnesse and holinesse Psa 126.5 6.30.5 vnto all so exercised sowing in teares they shall reape in ioy heauinesse endures for a night but ioyes comes in the morning Q. But I finde no such thing in me rather the contrary hardnesse and stubbornnesse A. The case is dangerous and lamentable some hope and comfort there is in this that you are sensible of your miserie take this receipt First come home to your selfe Hag. 2.1 Luk. 15.17 call your dispersed thoughts summon them together as to a weightie consultation Heb. 3.13 Psal 51.3 Secondly weigh the true cause of such continued hardnesse the deceitfulnesse of sinne through inconsideration and delay of repentance Mat. 16.26 Thirdly intensiuely fixe your eies vpon your sinnes laid open before you originall actuall with your aptitude to the vilest was euer done or thought on by any casting what is lost what gained by sinne one sence of seeing and weeping see well and weepe well Fourthly be frequent in that angelicall exercise of speculation Luk. 19.41.23.28 and meditation and therein represent Christ to your thoughts â—â—eeping often neuer laughing 〈…〉 for you that you might mourne 〈…〉 your-selues Fifthly grieue for the want of griefe that you can be more sorrie for any thing then sinne Sixtly Eccl. 7.2 3 4 5. vse all incentiues to moue sorrow with softnesse as places companie employment it is better to goe to the house of mourning then to the house of feasting sorrow is better then laughter by the sadnesse of the countenance the heart is made better praying with Ieremie Ier. 9.1 O that my head were waters and mine eies a fountaine of teares that I might weep day and night c. Seuenthly be content with that measure of sorrow which the Lord affords A skilfull Physician euer prepares a potion according to the constitution of his patient Q. What is that which cannot stand with sound humiliation A. First Luciferian 〈◊〉 mentall or carnall Luke 1.51 Iames 4 6. Secondly humorizing fashionisme new words may serue to expresse new fashion-mongers consisting in a fond imitation of euerie foolish forraine device in haire attire c. a signe of great lightnesse Rom. 12.2.13.14 Thirdly luxurious epicurisme pampering of the flesh as ouer delicate women vse to doe and studying to satisfie the lust thereof by eating drinking playing sleeping with other acts gracelesse and namelesse so fooling away eternitie Fourthly Mat. 19.23 Atheisticall couetousnesse whereby our affections are fixt and fastened to the earth 6.25.20.26.27.28 Fifthly carnall securitie from carnall iollitie vnseparable without sight of sinne or sense of miserie Sixtly sharpe contention about matters of small moment striuing for place harshly censuring all of that any way oppose vs. Q. Which is the fourth duty necessary for our preparation A. Application of all which is as the bellowes to our spirituall heat whereby all we receiue and know is turned into nutriment and made our owne and this must be First Mat. 26.22 of all we haue done to our selues in a strict examination of our estates Secondly 1 Cor. 46. of all God hath spoken to our soules in the threatnings and promises of his Word Q. Which is the fifth duty necessary for our preparation before we come to the Communion A. Resolution which is a heartie and stedfast purpose of more exact obedience for the time to come Acts 11.23 consisting in holy vowes and promises to be performed in their season especially we must resolue First to keepe entire our renewed amitie betweene Christ and our soules Psa 116.18.132.3 4 5 6. to giue no occasion of distaste if any happen not to rest till it be made vp Secondly Iohn 13.35 1 Iohn 3.14 Gal. 5.6 as to be in it for the present so to continue for the time to come in the loue of our brethren generally with all familiarly with those of the houshold of faith this is The wedding garment Q. What must a prepared Christian doe when he is come to the communion A. Let him againe bethinke him Gen. 28 16 17. First where he is supposing he heares that voyce put off thy shooes from thy feet for the place where thou standest is holy ground Secondly to what end he came Exod. 3.5 Luk. 15.19 to feast with Christ nay to feed of Christ Thirdly how vnworthy yet he is to approach thither and touch such sacred things hauing yeelded euery one of his members as Seruants to vncleannesse Esay 64.6 Phil. 3.9 Fourthly in what garment fashion and condition hee desires as his owne thoughts inwardly suggest vnto him to be seene and noted of Christ at his Table with what reuerence humility filiall feare strength of faith c. Q. What is it to eate and drinke the Body and Blood of Christ A. First confidently to embrace and by the hand of faith to receiue that pardon obtained and offered to vs by Christ Iohn 6.63 Secondly to be married vnto him vnseparably and after a wonderfull manner vnited and graft into his mysticall body Rom. 8.1.14 Thirdly to bee quickned nourisht and guided by that Spirit which liues and mooues both in Him and vs c. Q. With what gesture must we receiue A. First no one kinde of gesture is exclusiuely necessary nor any one with respect to order and decency that scandall and offence be auoyded 1 Cor. 10.32 11.16.14.40 vnlawfull Secondly that which is in vse in any particular Church confirmed by authoritie of present gouernours ought to be esteemed best and so obserued Thirdly that whereby we may expresse most humiliation deuotion and ardency of affection seeing our Sacrament is deliuered and receiued by way of petition is best as vncouering of the head bowing of the knee lifting vp of hands and eyes towards heauen c. prouided communicants come with preparation voyd of superstition Q. When you haue receiued what is the best employment while the elements are in distribution to others for you may not be idle nor ill employed A. That vndoubtedly whereby Christ may be most glorified and the soules of communicants most freely and feelingly comforted which as I conceiue and still beleeue is reducible to all or most of these foure First 1 Cor. 10.31 is meditation which is as digestion after meat and what more seasonable then after meat digestion it is the first
concupiscence driues away filthy thoughts Phil. 1.23 and keeps the heart watchfull and cheerefull in all other duties Fifthly Psal 1.1 2. it makes vs wearie of the world and willing to die seeing separated soules onely are so happy sweetning in the meane time that paines we take in the practice of Christianitie and studie of Diuinitie Q. When the Communion is ended and euery man departed what is then required to be done by vs A. First to be thankefull both alone and wiâ—â— others of our owne Rom. 14.6 1 Cor. 13.4 Heb 10.32 2 Pet. 3.18 Secondly to be â—â—â—â—tifull according to ability Thirdly to be mindfull what we haue heard done and promised Fourthly to be carefull by after and often examination to discerne a growth in necessarie graces especially of loue zeale and humilitie euer after to wake with Christ euery morning to walke with him euerie day to rest and sleepe in his armes euerie night Q. What will befall vs in the close and conclusion of all as the reward of well-doing Hos 10.12 Gal. 6.16 A. Gods blessing and euerlasting peace they that sow thus in righteousnesse shall reape in mercie as many as walke according to these rules peace shall bee on them and mercie as vpon the Israel of God Who so is wise he shall vnderstand these things prudent and hee shall know them for the waies of the Lord are right and the iust shall walke in them but transgressours shall fall therein Hosea 14.9 Multis non Mihi FINIS ⧠A Table of the CONTENTS A ADultery what it is 165. how many wayes it may be committed ibid. why it is forbidden next after murther 166. what sinnes are condemned usually under that name 167 Amen why it is added in the end of prayer 283. how many wayes this word is used in Scripture 283 284. what it doth signifie 284. what is required in him that saith it with understanding ibid. what may be learned from it 285. why it is so requisit for people to say Amen 286. Application what and how necessary 367 Articles of our faith the first explained 17. the second 21. the third 25. the fourth 31. the fift 44. the sixt 48. the seventh 54. the eight 58. the ninth 61. the tenth 75. the eleventh 81. and the last 86 Ascension of Christ what it was when whence to what place and why 49 what use may be made of it 50 51 Atheisme amongst Christians and how it comes to passe 336 B. BAptisme what it is and what is done for us therein 5. whether it be necessary and who may receive it 8. by whom children are to bee baptized where and when 9. what is required to the right administration thereof from the parties baptized the Minister baptizing and from the congregation 10 11 13. what be the chiefe fruits and benefits of Baptisme 13 Bread what is understood by it in the Lords Prayer 242. how it may bee said to be ours and if ours why we are to pray for it 244 Buriall of Christ what it was why and by whom 41. why buried by rich men and what may be learned from it 42 C. CAlling what 310. how the Lord doth call 311. how Satan labours to hinder it 312. how a Christian may know whether he be called or no 313. whether calling be necessary to salvation 315. how a man may heare this call with benefit 317. and how a man may know whether he have beene a profitable hearer of the Word ibid. three cases of conscience touching calling 314 315 316 Catechising what it is and by whom to be performed 1. who are to be be catechized in publike and how the duty is to be performed 2. why it is so requisit to be upheld in the Church 3 Ceremonies about any part of Gods Service how wee are to thinke of them 12 Children their duty 137. and wherein they offend 146. Christ what it signifies and what we may learne from it 22. what a Christian must doe to get him 341 342. what it is to eate his Body and Blood 369. God willing Christ was appointed to be the Fountaine of life powring out into his assumed nature the excellency thereof whence it is derived and communicated to every member as the Sunne by beames so Christ by his Spirit conveyes life which is not the Spirit but by the Spirit it is not faith but by faith enjoyed modo ineffabili admirabili Christus vita suis Christians who are so indeed 335. what is their duty as Lawyers as going to law as bearing witnesse 199. as judging betweene their brethren â—00 Church what wee understand by it 334. how it is taken in the Creed and what we therein confesse of it 62. what it is to beleeve the Church and what is beleeved of it 63. how a true visible Church may be known 65. whether a man being once in may not bee wrought out of the Church 64. why the Church is called Catholike and holy and what use may be made of it 67 68 69 Commandement the first what is the meaning of it 92. what duties are enioyned 93. what sinnes are forbidden therein 95. and what may be learned from the whole 98 Commandement the second what is the meaning and summe of it 100 101. what sinnes are therein forbidden 103. what duties enioyned and what use may be made of all 106 107 Commandement the third what is the meaning and summe of it 108 109. what is forbidden and what commanded therein 112 113. what is required that men may keepe it 114. and what use may bee easily made of it 115 Commandement the fourth what is the meaning 117 and summe of it 118. how it is kept holy 119. why 121. and what benefits come thereby 122. how it is most ordinarily prophaned 125. what is forbidden therein 123. what workes may be done that day 124. and what use may be made of the whole 126 Commandement the fift what is the meaning and summe of it 128. who are meant by father and mother and what by honour 129. suppose our superiours be wicked and so unworthy honour what wee should then doe 130. why we should be so carefull of mutuall duties 149. what is required in us that we may observe them ibid. what they are see the particulars under their severall titles of Magistrate Minister Master Servant Husband Wife in this following table What use may be made of this precept 150. Commandement the sixt what is the meaning of it 151. how a private person may breake it in regard of himselfe 156. and how in respect of others 157 158. what duties are enjoyned with reference to our selves and others 159. what is required for the better keeping of this law 161. and what use may be made of the whole 163 Commandement the seventh what is the meaning of it 164. what sinnes are forbidden therein 167 168 169. and why they must be so carefully avoided 170. what a transgressour thereof must doe to be saved 171. by