and in his humane nature Secondly that Hee shall manifest to all the world his power and glory in great pompe and state Mat. 24.30 Q. From whence shall Hee come A. From heauen where He is now seated on the right hand of God the Father Almighty 1 The. 1.10 but to what place whether to Mount Oliuet as some Schoolemen thinke Phil. 3.20 or to the valley of Iehosophat as other Graue Diuines or that it shall be in the Ayre any may be receiued as probable none as certainely necessary Q. For what end must Hee come A. To iudge and determine of all controuersies to passe a righteous sentence from which there can be no appeale Psal 9.7 8. no not in the thought of those which shall be iudged Q. Who are they that must be iudged by Him A. All quicke and dead found lying in their graues or liuing vpon earth Dan. 12.2 good and bad high and low as first Angels with the iudgement of a more glorious retribution Iohn 5.29 Secondly good men with the iudgement of absolution Iude 6. Thirdly wicked men and Angels of darkenesse with the iudgement of finall condemnation Q. How will Christ come A. As a iudge in State and Maiesty with a sounding Trumpet that all the world shall heare and the heauenly hoast attending Mat. 25.31 1 The. 4.16 which all the world shall see in their richest furniture Q. When will Christ come thus A. It is not reuealed that men might continually waite for it and not curiously search after the seasons which God hath reserued in his owne power preparation for it Mat. 24.36 Acts 1.7 is better then any disputation about it Q. Why is Christ appointed to iudge the world A. First for the honour of his pâ—ace and office it being giuen him as a crowne for his suffering Secondly Ioh 5.22 23. Phil. 2.9 10 that Hee might openly take vengeance vpon those his enemies who would not that Hee should raigne ouer them here in this world Thirdly Luke 19.27 that he might bring his owne Subiects into reall possession of that glory which Hee did purchase for them Fourthly 2 Thes 1.8 9 10. Luke 21.28 that the mystery of iniquity and all hidden workes of darkenesse might be publikely seene shamed and sentenced Q. What doe you learne from this Article A. First that Christ will certainely come to iudgement Secondly that I must appeare in my owne person before the Iudgement seate of Christ Heb. 9.27 Thirdly 2 Cor. 5.10 to iudge none but my selfe not the liuing I know not how God may dispose of them hereafter Matth. 7.1 nor the dead I know not how God hath disposed of them already Reu. 14.13 it is Christs office to iudge both Fourthly Acts 24.16 to make my account ready euery day in a holy preparation for it Heb. 4.16 so to liue as I desire to stand then in the presence of Christ Q. Which is the eighth Article A. I beleeue in the Holy Ghost Q. What doth this Article containe A. Two things First a description of the third person in Trinity Secondly the duty of a Christian concerning him Q. How is the third person described A. Two wayes First by his name Ghost or Spirit Secondly by his title or attribute Holy Que. Why is he called The Spirit A. Not exclusiuely both Father and Sonne are equally Spirit but emphatically because He is breathed as it were Iohn 4.24.15.26.16.13 14. in his procession from the Father and the Sonne noting the manner of his subsistence in the Godhead Q. Why is Hee called The holy Spirit A. First in regard of his nature He is holy Secondly because it is his personall office to sanctifie both the Church and the Children of the Church Rom. 15.16 Heb. 6.4 such as are effectually called and that both with common Rom. 8.9.10 and with sauing graces Q. What is the duty of a good Christian A. To beleeue in him Q. What is it to beleeue in him A. First to acknowledge him for God Mat. 28.19 Acts 5.3 4. Secondly to confesse him Thirdly to apprehend him and relye vpon him for his comforts gifts and graces Fourthly in resolution and preparation to dye in defence of this truth Fifthly to liue in a constant course of spirituall seruice required by Him Ephe. 4.30 in whom I beleeue Q. What doe you learne from the whole Article A. First that there is a holy Ghost in person distinct from the Father and the Sonne 1 Ioh. 5.7 8. in essence the same Secondly that I must beleeue in him as in the Father and the Sonne who is the sanctifier and comforter of my Soule Rom. 8.9 Thirdly that if I beleeue in Him indeed 2 Tim. 1.14 Hee dwels and hath his abode in mee Q. How may a man know whether He haue the Spirit abiding in him A. 1. By that spirituall seruice hee is stird vp vnto and enabled thereby to performe Rom. 1.4 Iohn 6.63 the Spirit quickeneth especially to prayer 2. By that holinesse of life which follows the presence of the Spirit 3. By the fruits of the Spirit loue ioy peace long-suffering Rom. 6.22 gentlenes goodnes faith meeknesse and temperance 4. Gal. 5.22 23. Rom 8.16 By that inward testimony and comfort a man may feele in all spirituall conflicts and distresses 5. Ephes 4.30 By that care he hath not to grieue the Spirit but to cherish the motions and follow the directions thereof Q. Which is the ninth Article Ans The holy Catholike Church Communion of Saints Q What doth this Article containe A. A confession and description of the house of God the Spouse of Christ the Church being the second generall part of the Creed Q. Whom doe you meane by Church here Acts 2.47 Heb. 12.22 A. That Vniuersall inuisible society consisting onely of the elect ordained to eternall life quickned by the Spirit and so prepared for glory Q. What doe you confesse here touching this Church A. First notwithstanding the Vniuersall corruption of mankind and their desperate estate vnder sinne Ephe. 1.3.4 Tit. 2.14 yet God hath his company in the world there is such a Church the Mother and nurse of Christians the pillar and ground of truth 1. Tim. 3.15 Secondly that this Church must be beleeued to bee it is aboue sence and reason Psal 14.1 2 3. Acts 13.48 they iudging it improbable if not impossible therefore called the inuisible Church in regard of her dispertion spirituall condition and mysticall Vnion with Christ Q. What is it to beleeue the Church A. First Mat. 16.18.18.17 to acknowledge a number of beleeuers alwayes extant in the world Secondly to bee perswaded vpon good grounds out of Scripture Rom. 16.1 that I am one of her children Thirdly couragiously to resolue to liue and dye in the Vnity of this Church Fourthly to assent to that truth of God
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
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
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
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