this Church every true Church consisting of so many and no more 1 Cor. 14.23 as can conveniently meet together in one place 1 Pet. 5.3 1 Cor. 12.28 Ephes 4.16 Isa 66.21 Jer. 3.14 15. 30.21 Deut. 1.13 Acts. 1.21 26. 14.23 1 Cor. 12.7 14.26 Rev. 2 3 cha Ephes 4.16 with 1 Cor. 12.12 27. Gal. 5.1 2 Thess 2.3 10. Rev. 2.2.12.11 Acts 15. c. being Christ's Clergy or Heritage to whom he hath given a power of sending forth his Ministers and to chuse from among themselves and to ordain their own Officers with Fasting and Prayer without laying on of Hands the glorious Gifts attending which being long since ceas'd that Ceremony is no more to be us'd than washing of Feet or anointing with Oil This Priviledge therefore with the Liberty of determining all Matters relating to this Body we will carefully uphold Renouncing all Encroachments made on Faith and Order by Popes Councils or any other whatsoever Yet shall we not refuse Communion with true Sister Churches in giving and receiving Advice Supplies or Members And that we may speak the same things 1 Cor. 1.10 and have no Division among us No one of us will go up and down as a Tattler Levit. 19.16 Prov. 20.19 1 Tim. 5.13 Rom. 16.17 Psal 101. Tale-bearer or Buisie-Body speaking things which they ought not but we shall mark and avoid all Persons and Things tending to Division Especially shall we refuse to receive into our House 2 John 9 10. Dan. 11.30 1 Cor. 5.11 1 Kin. 13.8.9 Psal 15.4 Hosea 4.15.17 2 Cor. 6.17 18 Col. 2.20 23. to have any Intelligence or eat with Apostates or them that forsake the holy Covenant contemning all such vile persons Nor will we come near to touch taste or handle any Worship after the Commandments and Doctrines of Men whatsoever shew of Wisdom and Humility it may have 1 Cor. 1.10 10.17 Ephes 4.4 6. Thus being perfectly join'd in the same Mind and in the same Judgment we shall be as one Bread and one Body in one Spirit call'd in one Hope having one Lord one Faith one Baptism one God the Father of all who is above all Ezek. 44.6 9. Jer. 51.10 Psa 66.16 40.9 10. 1 Pet. 3.15 Phil. 2.1 2. 2 Chr. 23.19 and thro' all and in us all Therefore shall we take none into Fellowship with us but such as shall declare what the Lord hath done for their Souls and openly profess their Oneness with us in Faith and Order rejecting all that are visibly unclean in any thing so shall we stand fast in the Liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free Gal. 5.1 Mat. 11.29 Psal 19.13 esteeming this Yoke of Christ easie and his Burthen light And dreading any wilful Breach of this Covenant Levit. 26.25 the quarrel of which God will avenge Finally AS a Body of CHRIST in this Oneness Phil. 3.12 15. 2 Cor. 6.17 Rev. 18.4 We Covenant to press forward after such a Separation from the Men of the World as we are call'd to by God in his Word that as Brethren we might dwell even together in Unity Isa 52.11 12. Psalm 133. to seek and to intermeddle with all Wisdom and to be kept from touching The Unclean Thing Prov. 18.1 Ps 106.47 48. So giving Thanks to the Holy Name of God our Saviour and triumphing in his Praise We shall look for and hasten unto the New Heavens 2 Pet. 3.12 13. and the New Earth wherein dwells Righteousness the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ 2 Tim. 4.1 to be reveal'd at his Appearance who will come shortly and will not tarry Rev. 22.17 20 21. The Spirit and the Bride say come and let him that heareth say come even so come Lord Jesus come quickly Amen! AND now blessing our God for establishing us a Church of Christ by Covenant Psal 105.8 10 2 Cor. 1.21 Ephes 2.22 1 Tim. 3.15 Rev. 2.7 Matth. 5.14 Psal 46.5 Matth. 16.18 2 Cor. 13.14 a House for himself to dwell in a Pillar and Ground of Truth a Golden Candlestick to hold forth his Light to the World Trusting that the Lord is in the midst of us and that the Gates of Hell shall not prevail against us We commend our selves to the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ the Love of God and the Communion of the Holy Spirit Psal 78.37 Col. 2.5 Isa 45.24 2 Cor. 12.9 whereby our hearts shall be stedfast in this Covenant Expecting from Christ our Mediatour All Righteousness and Strength Strength to supply us with all Grace to do Heb. 9.14 15. and Righteousness to pardon all our failings in this our Covenant Gal. 2.16 not looking to be justify'd by our Obedience hereto Heb. 13.20 21 all our Salvation being in the Blood of the Everlasting Covenant of Grace made with Christ for us Isa 55.3 and given to us as a Free Testament 2 Chr. 23.16 34.30 32. This Covenant being the Holy Bond of our Souls to be the Lord's People to walk fully after the Lord and to keep his Commandments In Testimony of OVR unfeigned Sincerity herein We make it Sure by Writing it Neh. 9.38 with chap. 10.16 28 Ezek. 43.11 Isa 44.5 And We our Elders and Deacons Subscribe it with the Hand This Thirtieth Day of the Eleventh Month MDCXCIX THE Catechism OR BRIEF INSTRUCTION In the Faith AND Order Of the Gospel For the CHURCH of CHRIST Meeting at Horsly-Down in Southwark 1 JOHN II. I have written unto you Fathers because ye have known him that is from the beginning I have written unto you Young Men because ye are strong and the Word of God abideth in you and ye have overcome the wicked one I have written unto you Little Children because your sins are forgiven you for his Name sake and ye have known the Father LONDON Printed for the Use of the Church 1700. THE CONTENTS OF THE Catechism THIS Catechism contains Seven Lessons which by degrees lead into the Knowledge of the Truth as it is in JESUS The First Lesson opens with a Discovery of God that his Awe may be upon the Heart The Second Lesson speaks of the Decrees of God and his Creation that in some measure they may be understood Afterwards The Third Lesson makes known the Fall of Man with the Bitter Fruits of it to humble and abase the heart before God And then in The Fourth Lesson Comfort is administred from the Glad Tidings of Redemption by the Person of Christ And that this Salvation may not only be heard of but felt The Fifth Lesson explains the Manner of the Application of this Redemption by Faith to the Soul which savingly experienc'd will draw forth Desires to understand The Sixth Lesson In which the good Old Law and Gospel of God are briefly cleared up and distinguisht the good knowledge whereof will lead down to The Seventh and last Lesson containing some Light about The great
THE Covenant To be the LORD'S PEOPLE AND TO Walk after the LORD Sign'd by the CHURCH of CHRIST Meeting at Horsly-Down in Southwark Deut. 29.1 With 2 Chron. 23.16 34 31. These are the Words of the Covenant which the Lord Commanded to be the Lord's People and to Walk after the Lord and to keep his Commandments and his Testimonies and his Statutes with the whole heart and with the whole soul and to perform the words of the Covenant which are written in this Book LONDON Printed for the Use of the Church 1700. In the Name 1 Cor. 5 4. Spirit and Power of our Lord JESUS CHRIST WE an escaped Remnant of poor Sinners of the Gentiles Isa 37.31 Judg 20.1 11. 1 Cor. 14.23 Deut. 29.1 1 Sam. 7.2 Isa 37.3 1 Cor. 4.9 Nehem. 9.2 Ezek. 36.31 Rom 5.12 Jer. 5.23 Ezek. 16.6 8. 1 Pet. 2.3 knit as one Man and assembled together in one Place to Renew Covenant with the Lord and to lament after him in this Day of Trouble Rebuke and Blasphemy Do before God Angels and Men most solemnly confess bewail and loath our Selves for our Apostacy from God in Adam and for all our abominable revoltings in Heart and Life as well before as since the time of Love and Life came wherein we tasted that the Lord is gracious Especially do we judge our selves 1 Cor. 11.31 Levit. 10.3 Jer. 7.31 Ezra 9.10 15. Neh. 13.23 27 Mal. 2.11 12. Hosea 6.7 for that there have been found with us those great Evils of offering unto the Lord strange Fire Worship which he commanded not Of Marrying strangers to God and his Covenant and of dealing treacherously with God in his Covenant to follow after lying Vanities For these Jonah 2.8 and all our innumerable evils we abhor our selves before the Lord Psal 40.12 Job 42.6 as in Dust and Ashes Neh. 9.33 Acknowledging him to be just in all that is brought upon us for he hath done right but we have done wickedly Yet mourn we not as those without hope 1 Thess 4.13 Psal 107.43 Jer. 3.1 5. Hosea 14.1 2. but understanding the Loving-kindness of the Lord that he yet invites us to return to him we take with us words and cry to him Art thou not our Father the guide of our Youth Take away all iniquity and receive us graciously so will we render thee the calves of our Lips Thus by Faith do we look again unto the Holy Temple Jonah 2.4 Heb. 12.15 16 Deut. 29.18 and having diligently searched lest any one of us fail of the Grace of God that there be no root of bitterness springing up in us to trouble us and that there be no Fornicatour or profane Person as Esau As a People prepared for the Lord Luke 1.17 Ezek. 11.18 19 we cast away all our detestable things And with one heart in one way which God hath given us for our good Jer. 32.39 and of our children after us We do stand this day all of us before the Lord our God Deu. 29.11 15 Jer. 17.10 the Searcher of Hearts We our Elders and Deacons and our little ones which the Lord hath given us that we should again enter into Covenant with the Lord our God and into his Oath which the Lord our God maketh with us this day that he may establish us to day for a People unto himself and our seed with us and not here with us this day that he may be unto us a God Gal. 3.7.6 14 29. 4.28 as he hath said to us and as he hath sworn unto our Fathers to Abraham to Isaac and to Jacob whose children we are Isa 44.5 and heirs with them according to the Promise by Faith in Jesus Christ We do make a Covenant with the Lord by Sacrifice giving up our selves Psal 50.5 2 Cor. 8.5 Isa 65.23 1 Pet. 2.5 and our Offspring with us unto the Lord and unto each other by the Will of God to offer up spiritual Sacrifices acceptable to God by Jesus Christ to be built up a spiritual house Ephes 2.22 1 Tim. 3.15 Isa 43.21 Ephes 3.21 or Church of the Living God to shew forth his Praise and give Glory to him in this present evil World Now that we may keep this our Covenant and do it Neh. 9.38 we write it in our sight Ezek. 43.11 Heb. 8.1 and by Name express unto what we Covenant of which this is the Sum To Avouch Jehovah alone for our GOD. To chuse the Written Word for our Only Rule To walk blameless in all the Ordinances of the Lord To Discharge our several Relative Duties First We do thro' the help of the Spirit by Covenant 2 Cor. 3.5 2 Chr. 30.18 20. 34.32 Psal 83.18 Matth. 28.19 stand to our Baptism tho' not so regularly administred into the Name of the Living and True God whose Name alone is Jehovah Father Son and Holy Spirit these Three The Lord our God Deut. 6.4 the Lord being One Lord Psalm 96.5 all other Gods being Idols This God alone we do solemnly Avouch for a God and Father to us and our Seed Deut. 26.17 4.37 to Love him with all our heart and with all our soul Matth. 12.30 and with all our mind and with all our strength and to cleave to him for ever as our God and Father in our Lord Jesus Christ Deut. 10.20 2 Cor. 1.2 3. 1 Tim. 3.15 2.5 Jer. 23.6 Phil. 3.8 9. 1 Cor. 1.30 God-Man the One Mediator between God and Men Jehovah our Righteousness counting all our own Righteousness as Loss and Dung trusting to him only for Justification Sanctification and compleat Salvation from the Curse of God's Law Gal. 3.10 13. Matth. 1.21 all our Sins and all evils whatsoever having hope of the Resurrection of the Body 2 Tim. 4.18 Acts 23.6 2 Thess 2.1 and of coming to and standing with him in Judgment fully expecting preservation to his heavenly Kingdom to whom be Glory for ever 2 Tim. 4.18 and ever Amen Secondly We do through the Help of the Spirit 2 Cor. 3.5 Psal 119 30. Gal. 6.16 Col. 2.5 Ephes 2.20 Rev. 14.1 15.3 1 Tim. 5.21 Mal. 2.9 Prov. 30.5 Psal 119.128 by Covenant chuse all the Written Word of God to be our only Rule for Faith and Order so building upon the Foundation of the Apostles and Prophets and on this Mount Sion singing the Song of Moses and the Lamb We shall not prefer one part of the Word by partiallity to another but esteeming every Word of God to be pure and all the Precepts concerning all things to be right and nothing to be refus'd Rom. 15.4 We shall take whatsoever is written therein for our Learning Reproof Correction 2 Tim. 3.15 17 and Instruction in Righteousness as throughly furnishing us to all good Works Therefore do we hate the Apocrypha Psal 119.104.128 Rev. 22.18 and all additions of Men whatsoever
4.14 15 3 John 9 10. Psal 101.5 and to abide by him waiting upon his Ministry in Season and out of Season not wilfully wandring from or forsaking it to attend upon any other esteeming him very highly in Love for his Works sake as a Steward of the Mysteries of God to us We shall not suffer any privily to backbite whisper or prate against our Pastour with malicious words for such are to be cut off We shall Honour and Obey our own Elders in the Lord not rebuking 1 Tim. 5.1.17.19 but intreating them as Fathers counting them worthy of double Honour who rule well especially those who labour in the Word and Doctrine Respecting also our Deacons and being ready for every good work to which they shall call Neh. 13.13 1 Tim. 6.18 IIdly We Covenant to discharge our Duty to our Infant Seed Gen. 18.19 Jude 3. Gen. 17.7 12. Deut. 10.15.14.1 2. contending earnestly for the Faith once delivered to the Saints of their right to a relation unto God in his Church with us and to Baptism the Seal thereof We being a Spouse of Christ our Royal Husband Mal. 2.15 1 Cor. 7.14 10.2 Eze. 16.20 21. 46.16 18. Jer. 30.20 Acts 2.39 Ephes 2.13 Psal 147.13 All our Children therefore are his born to him who hath promis'd to us Gentiles that were afar off that he will not thrust our children out of their possession but that even our children shall inherit and be continu'd a holy Seed as afore-time that our Congregation should be establisht and the Bars of our Gates strength'ned Isa 65.23 66.22 Josh 24.16 Joel 2.16 17. Psal 90.16 Esther 10.3 Nehem. 2.10 Psal 101.1 Ephes 6.4 Prov. 22.6 1 Chr. 28.9 2 Chr. 29.11 30.6 Isa 44.3 5. Gen. 21.9 12. by the Lord's blessing our children within us therefore will we and our House serve the Lord seeking as well in the Congregation as in Secret for the Blessing of the Lord and his Peace upon our children walking before them in a perfect way training them up in the Nurture and Admonition of the Lord and calling upon them as they grow up to avouch the Lord for their God and to take on themselves the Bond of the Covenant casting out such of them as prove Scoffers and despisers of their Birthright IIIdly We Covenant to discharge our Duty to each other as members in particular 1 Cor. 12.27 1 Pet. 1.22 Gal. 6.2 Ephes 4.2 Rom. 12.10 Mark 13.37 to Love one another with a pure heart fervently to bear each others burthens forbearing one another and in Honour esteeming each better than our selves to watch over each other not hating our Brother by suffering sin to rest upon him Levit. 19.17 but in any wise to rebuke him We shall not consent hearken to Deut. 13.6 11. Prov. 29.24 pity spare nor conceal any tho' dear as our own soul that would secretly intice us to depart from the true Faith of God in which we stand 1 Pet. 5.12 Heb. 3.12 13. Acts 11.23 James 5.16 Luke 22.32 1 Thess 4.18 but daily will we exhort each other with full purpose of heart to cleave unto the Lord praying for strengthning and comforting one another in the ways of Christ no Brother wronging nor defrauding a Brother 1 Cor. 6.1 8. nor going to Law with him before unbelievers the Saints being to judge all matters relating to the Brethren And consecrating our substance to the Lord Mic. 4.13 Esther 10.3 Rom. 12.13 Acts 4.32 we shall seek the welfare of each other distributing to the necessities of the Saints according to the Example of the People of God in the Apostles times 1 Cor. 7.26 27. as far as the present distress doth permit not refusing to lay down even our lives for the Brethren 1 John 3.16 Psal 137.6 as preferring this Sion to our chiefest Joy Nor shall we neglect our several relative Duties whether within the Church Col. 4.5 or without Husbands loving their Wives Ephe. 5.25.33 Col. 3.19 Eph. 5.22 24. Col. 3.18 not being bitter against them Wives being obedient to their own Husbands in the Lord Parents bringing up their Children in the Fear of God Ephes 6.4 Children obeying their Parents in the Lord Ephes 6.1 2. Masters being just and merciful to their Servants Ephes 6.9 Servants and Subjects obeying their Superiors in the Lord 1 Pet. 2.13 25. 1 Thess 4.11 2 Thess 3 10 12 All studying to be quiet to work with their own hands and to mind their own business rendering to Caesar the things that are Caesars Mat. 22.21 and to God the things that are Gods that so we may adorn the Gospel of God our Saviour Titus 2.10 IV. We all Covenant to discharge our Duty to the whole Church jointly 1 Cor. 12.25.12 as a Body of Christ To be holy to the Lord in all manner of Conversation To stand together for the Defence of the Truth To keep the Unity of the Spirit in the Bond of Peace To press forward in our Heavenly Course 1st 1 Pet. 1.15 2 Tim. 2.4 As a Body of Christ we shall be holy to the Lord in all manner of Conversation not intangling our selves with the Affairs of this Life Zeph. 3.9 Ephes 5.4 in Language seeking Purity avoiding all foolish Talking or Jesting which is not convenient having our Speech season'd with Salt Col. 4.6 that it may administer Grace to the Hearers And we being redeem'd from a vain Conversation 1 Pet. 1.14 18. shall not fashion our selves according to the former Lusts in our Ignorance but adorning our selves with modest Apparel becoming People professing Godliness 1 Tim. 2.9 Deut. 22.5 with 1 Cor. 11.1.16 Ezek. 44.20 Rev. 9.7 8. Zeph. 1.8 Isa 3.24 Jude 23. No Woman shall wear that which pertains to a Man nor any Man put on a Woman's Garment or Covering all that do so being an Abomination to the Lord who will punish all such who are cloath'd with strange Apparel strange to Nature or strange to Scripture therefore shall we hate even the Garment spotted with the Flesh Gen. 35.2 2 Cor. 6.14 Josh 23.12 13. Judg. 2.1.4 2 Chron. 19.2.20.35 37. Deut. 7.3 5. Ezra 9.14 10.3 5. Neb. 13.23 27 Mal. 2.11.15 Heb. 6.10 Levit. 18.30 Prov. 2.17 Mal. 2.14 Gen. 23. all Ruth 1.17 1 King 13.31 we will not unequally Yoke our selves with Unbelievers nor join in Affinity or make Leagues with such as are not in a visible relation to Christ in his Church nor yet shall we give our Daughters to their Sons nor take their Daughters to our Sons lest our Children learn their ways and we so mingle the Holy Seed that there be no Remnant of us or escaping Desiring also to be married as God's People were of old and not according to vain Customs all which are forbidden avoiding as much as in us lies being interr'd with Strangers so following the Example of the Saints who coveted
to this our only Rule yet not accounting that we have already attained or are already perfect Phil. 3.12 13. Psal 119.105 Isa 8.20 we will reach forth to those things which are before by the Light of the Word waiting for the teachings of the Spirit of Truth John 16.13 to lead us into all Truth in a diligent comparing Scripture with Scripture 1 Cor. 2.13 Prov. 4.18 till the light thereof shine more and more unto the perfect day Thirdly 2 Cor. 3.5 2 Chr. 34.31 Luke 1.6 typify'd Eze. 40.39.43 46.3 We do thro' the help of the Spirit Covenant to walk blameless in all the Ordinances which the Lord Jesus Christ hath given to his Churches both General and Special in their appointed seasons 1st We shall every First day of the Week 1 Cor. 16.2 Rev. 1.10 Psal 150.6 1 Tim. 2.1 Eph. 3.8 Gal. 6.6 being the Lord's Day wait upon God in the general Ordinances of Praise Prayer Preaching and Contribution to be dispens'd to all Praising God by singing Scripture Psalms Hymns 2 Chr. 29.30 Ephes 5.19 Spiritual Songs and no other Praying to God in and by the Spirit Rom. 8.26 Col. 2.20 without the Forms or Rudiments of Men. Preaching by our Pastour 1 Cor. 4.15 16. 12.28 1 Tim. 6.3 with helps appointed in the Word to instruct us according to our form of sound words Laying by us in store as God prospers us 1 Cor. 16.1 2. Heb. 13.16 that we may be ready for Contribution on all Occasions offer'd 2dly Isa 66.23 Ezek. 47.12 We shall according to the Months attend upon God in the special Ordinances Baptism And the Lord's Supper 1 Cor. 4.1 Typify'd Eze. 46.19 24. The Seals of the Church commonly call'd Sacraments to be administred to us only by our own Pastour Fellowship And Censure Matth. 16.19 John 20.23 Rev. 3.7 The Keys of the Church to be exercis'd by our own Elders Baptism to be administred to us 1 Cor. 10.1.2 with Ps 77.17 Isa 52.15 with Matt. 28.19 20. Acts 2.39 41. 1 Cor. 7.14 12.13 with Gal. 3.27 1 Pet. 3.21 with 1.3 and to all our immediate Infant-Seed by sprinkling or pouring only Water on the Face in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit Sealing to all their Covenant-Relation to God in his Church or putting on Christ by Profession and only to the Elect a saving-Relation by the sprinkling of Christ's Blood in Justification and pouring forth his Spirit in Sanctification Ezek. 36.25 Rom. 11.7 such alone putting on Christ to Salvation The Lords Supper 1 Cor. 11.23 to the end In which Bread is blest and broken and Wine blest and pour'd forth Luke 22.14 30 Numb 28.2 Heb. 9.26 and receiv'd by the Church met and sitting together in the Evening time as a Sign to all that in the Evening time of the World Christ's Body was broken and his Blood shed for the Remission of Sins Rom. 3.24 26. Sealing only to the worthy Receivers their saving interest therein Fellowship The Key Acts 2.42 Isa 26.1 2. Jer. 51.10 1 Pet. 3.15 1 Cor. 14. Jude 20. for opening the Gates of the Church to receive in the Righteous that keep the Truth in which there is a communication of Experience and Knowledge as also of Gifts and Graces by praying and prophecying for building up the Saints in their most Holy Faith 1 Cor. 14.34 35. no Woman being herein permitted to speak for 't is a shame for Women to speak in the Church Censure Rev. 1.18 1 Cor. 4.21 The Key for shutting the Door of the Church consisting of Admonition withdrawing from and cutting off Offenders Admonition Privately given Mat. 18.15 17 1 Tim. 5.20 Numb 12.14 Ezek. 43.11 for private Offences Publickly when the Offence relates to the Body with shutting up from Special Ordinances those that slight the Church 2 Thes 3.14 15 or their own Elders that such may be asham'd Withdrawing from Those that walk disorderly 2 Thess 3.6 Rom. 16.17 Ezra 10.8 Jer. 2.18 c. Heb. 12.15 17 cause Divisions and Offences forsake Church Assemblies present themselves at any Will-Worship or despise their Birthright Cutting off 1 Cor. 5.1 5. 1 Tim. 1.20 Titus 3.10 Neh. 5.13 2 Cor. 9.13 And delivering to Satan such as are obstinate Hereticks or guilty of those sins that are scarce nam'd among the Gentiles To all this Discipline of Christ we profess Willing subjection And thus shall each one of us be in readiness to revenge all disobedience with the Sword of the Spirit in our hands 2 Cor. 10.4 6. Psal 149.5 9. this Honour have all the Saints Praise ye the Lord After this manner shall we call upon each other Psal 122.1 Heb. 10.24.25 Num. 28.2 Exo. 20.24 26. to go up to the Worship of Christ in our stated Seasons behaving our selves in the House of God not unseemly but as in the Presence of Christ Joel 2.15 2 Chr. 20.3.26 Attending also on such other Occasional Meetings for Fasting and Thanksgiving as it shall seem good to the Church from the Word to appoint So shall we keep all the Ordinances of God's House 1 Cor. 14.40 Ezek. 43.4.11 Matth. 15.9 Dan. 7.25 Col. 2.20 23. with the Times and Forms thereof rejecting all Ordinances Times and Forms after the Commandments and Doctrines of Men. Fourthly The Spirit helping our Infirmities 2 Cor. 3.5 We covenant conscientiously to discharge our several Duties to the Lord in this Body Heb. 3.5 We that are Officers Covenant to discharge our Duty Deut. 29.10 1 Pet. 5.2 Acts 20.28 Jer. 50.8 2 Sam. 23.3 The Pastour willingly to feed and take the Oversight of the Flock of God going before them in the ways of Christ ruling in the Fear of the Lord and being an Example in Faith Love and Zeal Titus 2.7 preaching the Word instant in Season 2 Tim. 4.1 4. and out of Season reproving rebuking exhorting with all long-suffering not profaning the Seals to any out of the Flock over which the Holy Spirit hath made him Overseer Ezek. 44.6.13 Matth. 7.6 The Elders diligently to help the Pastor in Teaching Rom. 12.7 8. Heb. 13.17 Watching over Ruling and Admonishing the Flock Acts 6.2 3.1 Tim. 3.8 14 The Deacons faithfully to serve the Tables waiting on that Ministry to which they are call'd using their Office well Furthermore We all Covenant to discharge our several Relative Duties Exodus 19.8 To our Own Officers To our Infant Seed To each other singly And To the whole Body jointly I st Neb. 10.29 Deut. 1.13 1 Cor. 9.7 15. Heb. 13.17 We Covenant to Discharge our Duty to our own Officers chosen from among our selves to maintain submit to and pray for our Pastour to cleave to him 2 Thess 3.1 Acts 17.34 1 Sam. 22.23 2 Tim. 4.2 Prov. 21.16 1 Cor. 4.15 16 1 Thess 5.13 1 Cor. 4.1 2. 2 Tim.
to be buried with their own People 2dly As a Body of Christ we will with one Shoulder stand together to uphold his Truth Zeph. 3.9 Margent Phil. 1.27 Gal. 2.5 and that the Gospel may continue with us and our Seed like David serving our Generation we profess to strive together for all Truth Act. 20.20 27. Psal 119.128 Deut. 12.32 Mat. 5.19 Gal. 4.18 Rev. 2.13 3.10 2 Cor. 10.4 7. Col. 1.18 counting nothing indifferent being always zealously affected for those Truths of Christ that are most oppos'd in our day resisting stedfastly by his Word and Spirit all Doctrines undermining the Dignity of our Lord Jesus Christ as King Prophet and Priest of his Church that in all things he might have the Preheminence More particularly First Isa 24.5 Matth. 2.14 Matth. 15.9 Gal. 5.1 1 Kin. 12.28 to the End Isa 33.22 Psal 45.11 We shall oppose ALL Doctrines leading to the Neglect of Christ's Ordinances or to the sinful imposing any Traditions Ceremonies Orders or Officers in the Church not instituted by Christ our only King Judge and Lawgiver who is our Lord and we will worship him Secondly Acts 13.45 46 with 3.22 We shall continue heartily to abhor ALL Doctrine contradicting and Blaspheming the Revelation of this our Prophet in his Written Word 1 Tim. 4.1 Chiefly those Doctrines of Devils which deny oppose or prevaricate about the Eternal Godhead of our Lord Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit Joh. 10.30 38 Acts 5.3 4. 1 John 5.7 so blaspheming the ever blessed Trinity in Unity Or that Oppose Isa 9.6 7. Matth. 1.23 1 Tim. 3.16 or Equivocate about the Mysterious Union of the Divine and Humane Nature in the One Person of our glorious Mediator Jesus Christ Or that exalt the Light within Jer. 10.23 Matth. 6.23 John 1.4 9. with 8.12.9.5 6.27.40 or any other Creature above besides or with Jesus of Nazareth that was Born of the Virgin Mary in Bethlehem in Judea The Only True Light of the World and Seal'd Sent Saviour of Sinners Or that Eclipse the Sovereignty Rom. 9.11 end 11.5 7. Eph. 2. thro' out John 1.13 2 Tim. 1.9 Titus 3.5 7. Freeness and Efficacy of Divine Grace in Election Vocation and Justification all being only of Grace without any regard had to Good foreseen in or done or will'd by the Creature Or that make void the good old righteous Law of God Hosea 8.12 Mat. 5.17 19. Isa 42.21 Rom. 3.19 21. Gal. 6.16 1 Tim. 1.5 10. Psal 19.7 9. Rom. 7.12 22 as a Law under which all Men are born and as a Rule of Life to all the Called of God The Law given to Adam in Paradice and afterwards held forth summarily in the Ten Commandments explain'd by Christ his Apostles and Prophets containing all Duties whatsoever Faith and Repentance not excepted and forbidding all manner of sin Or that transform the Gospel of God's Grace into a new Remedial Law Acts 20.24 Luke 2.10 11. Acts 13.38 39 commanding Faith Repentance and sincere Obedience as the Terms and Conditions of our Justification the true Gospel being a Ministration of Grace Rom. 3.22 28. 5.1 2.10.4 freely tendring to poor sinners the Suretiship Righteousness of Christ to be relied upon by Faith and imputed to them for their full and free Justification before God Or that affirm Justification is only by the Death of Christ and consists only in Remission of Sin Rom. 5.10 19. 10.4 The Word assuring us that Justification is as well by Christ's perfect Obedience to the Law Heb. 5.8 9. Cant. 4.7 2 Cor. 5.21 Eph. 5.27 1 Joh. 3.7 as by his Death under its Curse and therein the Sinner is not only forgiven but accounted perfectly righteous Or that render the Elect less children of Wrath by Nature than others Ephes 2.3 12. Rom. 3.9 19. Mark 2.17 Gal. 3.22 23. 1 Thes 1.8 10. by asserting their actual Justification from Eternity or at any time before Faith the whole tenour of Scripture discovering that all are alike under sin shut up under the Law till Faith comes Gal. 2.16 Psal 86.13 by which Christ is apprehended to justifie and save even from the lowest Hell Or that give the least encouragement to sin Either by affirming Psal 89.31 33 Jer. 46.28 Amos 3.2 that the Iniquities of God's Children are not visited by Stripes consisting with the Father's loving-kindness Or By refusing to pray for the Pardon of Sin Luke 11.4 Psal 25.7 11 18. 2 Cor. 7.10 11 Jam. 2.14 ult Jude 4 v. Phil. 3.18 19. which our Lord in his Summary of Prayer hath made our daily Duty And by denying Repentance and Good Works to be the genuine Fruits of Faith so turning the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ into Lasciviousness and causing his Cross to be evil-spoken of These Doctrines shall we detest Pro. 2.6 to 15. Psal 17.4.19.7 2 Tim. 3.15.17 Together with all that question the Validity of any part or the sufficiency of the whole written Word for perfecting the Man of God in all things whatsoever so reproaching our faithful Prophet who hath seal'd the Vision Mal. 2.9 Heb. 3.5 6. Dan. 9.24 Jer. 8.8 9. and given us a Rule in every thing compleat Thirdly Continually shall we reject all Doctrines establishing Priesthoods Heb. 2.17.9.26.10.4 to 23. Masses Conditions or any Creature Qualifications and Confidences for Satisfaction Heb. 3.1 1 John 2.1 2. 1 Tim. 2.5 Mediation or Intercession with God Christ alone being our High-Priest Propitiation and Mediatour Therefore we will not give place by subjection Gal. 2.5 5.1 2 Tim. 2.1 Rev. 14.1 Gal. 2.11 Rev. 2.10.3.15 16. 1 King 18.21 Zech. 11.8 Psal 69.9.119.139 1 Cor. 4.3 Psal 69.7 Heb. 12.3 Psal 69.8 Gal. 4.16 Micah 7.1 7. Luke 14.26 to 33. no not for an hour to any that would bring us into Bondage but being strong in the Grace which is in Christ Jesus and shewing the Father's Mark in the Forehead we shall withstand them to the Face stedfastly resisting even to the Death Protesting against all coldness lukewarmness halting or indifferency in the Cause of Christ which things his Soul hates The Zeal of Christ's House having eaten us up for his sake therefore shall we gladly bear the unrighteous Judgments Reproaches and Contradictions of all sorts of sinners whether open Enemies false Brethren lukewarm Churches or Kindred according to the flesh professing to have counted the Cost and willingly to deny and forsake all Friends Relations Enjoyments and whatsoever is dear to us in this World Rev. 14.4 1 Cor. 4.9 13. Heb. 11.24 27 that we may follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth laying our Reputation Estate Liberty yea Life it self at the Feet of Jesus Christ Matth. 16.24 27. our Lord and Saviour 3dly As a Body of Christ Ephes 4.3 with Eze. 20.37 Gal. 5.1 we will keep the unity of the Spirit in the Bond or Covenant of peace Maintaining the Priviledges of
for our Sins and rose again for our Justification The Fifth Lesson About the Application of Redemption Question 1. WILL Jesus Christ save all Men Answer Jesus Christ so saves all the World from present destruction Psal 36.6 with 1 Tim. 4.10 Heb. 2.9 10. Rom. 9.27 1 Tim. 4 10. that all men have some outward Benefits by his Ransom but he doth only save a certain number from Eternal Death whence he is said specially to save them that believe Question 2. Who are those that Jesus Christ will save from Eternal Death Answer Jesus Christ saves none from Enternal Death but the Elect Joh. 17.2 9 12 19. Rom. 11.5 7. 2 Thess 2.11 14 those that were chosen to Salvation before the foundation of the World the rest die in their Sins and are damn'd notwithstanding all the good things they enjoy in this life by Christ Luke 16.25 Question 3. How comes it that only some are elected Answer It pleas'd God of his own Will Ephes 4.5 11. Rom. 9.11 to 24. Prov. 16.4 1 Pet. 2.8 9. for the manifestation of his glory to chuse some to everlasting life and to appoint others to Condemnation nor doth he give any other account of his doings Jude 4. Job 33.13 but his own Sovereign Will and Pleasure Question 4. But did not God chuse the Elect for some good he saw in them more than in the rest Answer 2 Tim. 1.9 There could be no more good foreseen in the Creature than what God did fore-ordain therefore God chose not any for foreseen good in them Rom. 9.18 Matth. 20.15 Job 9.12 40.2 but he had Mercy on whom he would have Mercy and whom he would he harden'd and who may say to him what doest thou Question 5. What difference then is there between the Elect and others that we may know them Answer There is no difference between the Elect and others by Nature Rom. 3.9 Gal. 3.10 22 23 24. all are alike the Children of Wrath under Sin shut up under the Law till Faith comes Rom. 11.5 6. 1 Cor. 4.7 Gal. 1.15 2.16.3.24 the difference is made only by Grace which causeth the Elect in the time appointed to believe in Christ that they may be justified by Faith in him Question 6. But if I am Elect may I not live as I will and yet be saved Answer All that are elected to Salvation are elected also to the Means of Salvation 2 Thess 2.13 1 Pet. 1.2 being chose to be sav'd thro' Faith in Christ and Sanctification of the Spirit unto Obedience Rom. 6.17 18. Acts 15.9 11. Rom. 8.1.14 which Faith all the Elect shall have to purifie their hearts so that they cannot live after the flesh Question 7 Are the Elect then sav'd for their Faith and Obedience Answer The Elect are not sav'd for their Faith and Obedience Titus 3.5 Eph. 2.8.9.10 Rom. 8.6 14. Joh. 3.18.36 10.3.26 but they are sav'd thro' Faith in Christ in a way of Obedience unto him and whosoever live all their life as they list and do never come to Christ by Faith nor obey him they are not elected and can never be sav'd Question 8. But are none sav'd without Faith in Christ Answer GOD hath appointed only one way of Salvation John 3.18.36 Eph. 2.5.8 Gal. 3.22.24 Acts 13.39 48 2 Sam. 12.23 Psal 22.9 10. 71.5 6. Luke 1.37.44 18.16.17 Rom. 4.16 Heb. 11.6 and that is by Grace thro' faith in Jesus Christ so that without or before Faith none are justified even the Elect that die in their infancy have Faith wro't in them by the Spirit of GOD by which they trust in Christ and all that do not thus come to Christ by true Faith being already condemn'd the Wrath of God abideth on them Question 9. How did the Elect of Old come to Christ before he was born in the World Answer The Elect of Old came to Christ Heb. 13.8 Acts 15.9 11. and were sav'd by faith in him even as we are now Rom. 3.22 25.4.22.24 Heb. 11.13.7.25 only they believ'd in Christ as to come and we believe in Christ as already come and now in Heaven at the Right Hand of God where he ever liveth to make Intercession Question 10. What is that Faith by which we come to Christ Answer 2 Cor. 4.17 Rom. 10.10 17 1 Thes 1.5 9. Phil. 3.3 8. Eph. 1.13.3.17 Joh. 17.20 21. 1 John 5.12 Faith is a Grace wro't by the Spirit of GOD thro' his Word in the heart of a poor Sinner by which the Sinner is made to renounce all Sin and other Confidence and to trust to and rest upon Christ alone for Salvation whereby he is united to Christ and so having the Son hath Life Question 11. What accompanies the Souls believing in Christ Answer 1 Cor. 1.9 2 Tim. 1.9 John 1.12 Gal. 3.26 Rom. 8.2.15.30 Every one that believes in Christ with the heart is effectually call'd by the Spirit of Christ and so is by Faith a Child of God justified adopted sanctify'd and shall be glorify'd Question 12. How is a Sinner justify'd what 's Justification Answer In Justification the Righteousness of Christ is by the Free Grace of God imputed to the believing Sinner Rom. 3.21 to 27 4.23 24. Gal. 2.16 3.22 23. Acts 13.38 39 2 Cor. 5.21 Isa 60.21 Rom 5.1.19 and only to him that believes for which Suretiship-Righteousness all his Sins are pardon'd and he is accounted perfeclly righteous in the sight of God and so being justified by faith hath Peace with GOD. Question 13. How are we Adopted what is Adoption Answer Acts 26.18 Rom. 8.15.17 Gal. 4.7 John 1.12 1 John 3.1 2. Matth. 3.17 1 Cor. 3.21 23 In Adoption GOD by his free Grace takes the poor Sinner out of the sinful Family of the First Adam and makes him a Child of God and Joint-heir with Christ the Second Adam his well-beloved Son in whom he hath a right to all the Priviledges of the Sons of GOD. Question 14. How are Believers sanctified what is Sanctification Answer Rom. 8.29 Eph. 4.23 24. 2 Cor. 5.17 1 Joh 4.19 2 Cor. 7.11 Ezek. 36.31 Rom. 6.17 21 22. In Sanctification the Holy Spirit restores the Image of GOD in the heart of a poor Sinner making him a New Creature renewing the Spirit of his Mind in all Holiness and true Righteousness to love God to repent of all Sin by loathing it and turning from it and with the heart to obey the Law of God Question 15. When are Believers glorify'd what 's Glorification Answer Glorification is the enjoyment of God for ever in Heaven John 17.5 24. Acts 13.36 2 Cor. 5.1 2 4. Heb. 2.10 1 Cor. 15 chap. Phil. 3.21 Matth. 25.34 c. by them who have in this life done his holy will whose Souls at death are made perfect in Holiness and their bodies being rais'd in Glory at the great day both Soul and Body shall be united and they being
is the Heresie of the Papists and their Followers to say that the good old righteous Law of God is taken away to make room for a new Gospel Law by our sincere Obedience whereto any can be sav'd for if Righteousness comes by our Obedience to any Law Christ is dead in vain Question 15. But are not Faith Repentance and New Obedience reckoned for our Gospel Righteousness Answer Gal. 2.16 Rom. 3.20 21 22. Jer. 23.6 1 Cor. 1.30 2 Cor. 7.11 Eph. 4.22 24. The only Righteousness for which a Sinner is sav'd is the Righteousness of Christ receiv'd by Faith and imputed to us the Act of Faith doth not justifie but Christ the Object by Faith apprehended and rested upon and this Faith is ever accompanied with true Repentance and new Obedience Question 16. Then those that receive the Gospel are to do good Works Answer Tit. 2.11 12.3.8 14. 1 Cor. 10.31 1 Tim. 1.5 8 9. Rom. 7.12 22. 1 Cor. 9.21 Mat. 5.19 Those that receive the Gospel should be careful to maintain good Works done from a Principle of Faith unto God's Glory but all Commands for all good Works with all Threatnings for the neglect thereof are from the Law which is the Rule of Life to all Question 17. How shall we walk according to this Rule that we may glorifie God Answer Christ hath set up his Churches 1 Pet. 2.3 5 9 12. Luke 1.6 in which we should walk blameless in all the Ordinances and Commands of God Mat. 12.50 Acts 2.42 11.26 Gal. 6.16 Mal. 4.4 2 Cor. 9.13 not being partial in his Law but esteeming the Commands as highly in the Old Testament as in the New both being our Rule and such only are call'd Christians in the Scripture and to be accounted visible Believers who profess their Subjection to Christ in his Church The Seventh Lesson About Glorifying God in his Churches Question I. WHat is the Church of Christ Answer The Church of Christ is either 1st The Catholick Church Eph. 1.22 23.5.25 27. 2 Thes 2.1 consisting of all and only the Elect which is and will be invisible till the Judgment-Day Or 2dly The visible Church which consisted first in Families Gen. 17.7 10. Acts 7.38 Rev. 1.11 then in the whole Nation of the Jews and since Christ ascended it consists in particular Congregations Question 2. What makes a Congregation a true Church of Christ Answer More generally and briefly two Things go to the due Constitution of every Church of Christ Scripture Faith Col. 2.5 6. and Order without both which there can be no true Church But more largely and particularly to the regular Constitution of every true Church these * Prov. 9.1 These are the Churches Seven Pillars Seven things are necessary Right Foundation Matter Form Officers Ordinances Order and Ends. SECT I. Of the Right Foundation of a Church Question 3. What is the Right Foundation of a Church of Christ Answer The right Foundation of every true Church Mat. 16.18 Isa 26.4 Marg. Eph. 2.20 2 Pet. 3.2 Ps 18.22 Col. 2.19 1 Pet. 2.4 5. 1 Cor. 3.11 is the Person of Christ the Rock of Ages on whom the Church is built according to the Precepts and Practices of the Apostles and Prophets Christ himself being the only Support and Head thereof on whom the Faith of the Church stands and all other Foundations of Money Power and Policy not being of God will fall SECT II. Of the right Matter of a Church Question 4. What is the right Matter of a Church of Christ Rom. 10.9 10. 1 Cor. 1.10.7.14 Jer. 32.39 Deut. 29.10 12. 1 Cor. 14.23 and 11.20 Deut. 4.37 Psal 102.27 28. Ezek. 16.20 21. Luke 18.16 Answer So many professing Believers of one Mind and one Judgment with their immediate Infant-Seed as can conveniently assemble together to worship in one place and no more are the only right Matter of a visible Church of God who loving the Fathers chose their Children after them therefore the Infant-Seed with Believers stand in a Relation to God in his Church for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven SECT III. Of the Right Form of a Church Quest 5. What is the right Form of a Church of Christ Answer Psal 50.5 Deut. 29.1 9 15. 2 Cor. 8.5 with 2 Chron. 23.16 and 34.31 The only right forming of a Church is by Covenant in which all do give up themselves and their Children to the Lord and to each other by his Will to be the Lord's People and to walk after him in all his ways by such a Covenant were the Churches both in the Old and in the New Testament form'd Neh. 10.1 29. with Act 11.23 Jer. 50.5 with Act. 9.26 Heb. 8.6.13 Eph. 4.3 with Ezek. 20.37 Neh. 9.38 Ezek. 43.11 call'd in God's Word the First and Second Covenant and this being the Bond of the Churches Peace it is most expedient to have written in our sight that we may keep it and do it SECT IV. Of the right Officers of a Church Quest 6. Who are the right Officers of a Church of Christ Answer Christ hath appointed for each Church only two sorts of Officers Phil. 1.1 A Pastor and Deacon 1st Eph. 4.11 1 Pet. 5.2 3. Acts 20.28 1 Cor. 12.28 A Pastor or Bishop not to Lord over but to feed teach and rule that Flock to which he is related assisted in his Work by Elders if need be 2d Acts 6.2 3. 1 Tim. 3. all Deacons to take Care of the outward Affairs of the Church These Officers to be chosen by the Church from among themselves Acts 14.23 and by them to be ordain'd or set a part to their Work with Fasting and Praying without laying on of Hands Profit not 1 Cor. 12.7 Edifie not 1 Cor. 14.12 26 that Ceremony being no more to be us'd than washing of Feet or anointing with Oyl because the glorious Gifts that once attended it are long since ceas'd SECT V. Of the Right Ordinances of a Church Question 7. What are the Right Ordinances of a Church of Christ Answer Typify'd Ezek. 40.39 40 41 42. chap. 46.3 Ezek. 47.12 The Right Ordinances for the Worship of GOD in the Church are Eight Four being more general to be dispens'd every first day of the Week in which all may join And four more special to be confin'd to or kept within the pale of the Church and dispens'd according to the Months Question 8. What are the Four general Ordinances in which all may join Answer The Four general Ordinances are Praise Prayer Preaching And Contribution 1st Praise Psal 150.6 Eph. 5.19 Col. 3.16 By singing only the Psalms Hymns and Songs indited by the Spirit and contain'd in the Scripture 2. Prayer By the help of the Spirit Psalm 65.2 Rom. 8.26 Matth. 6.7 9. without humane forms according to the Pattern given by our Lord to his Disciples 3. Preaching By rightly dividing 2 Tim. 4.2 Acts 28.23 expounding and applying
the Scriptures of Truth 4. Contribution By laying by in Store 1 Cor. 16.1 3. Heb. 13.16 as God prospers each Week to be Communicated at the Publick Gatherings Question 9. What are the Four special Ordinances confin'd only to the Church Answer Matth. 7.6 Cant. 4.12 Matth. 16.19 Eph. 4.11 16. typify'd Eze. 46.21 24 Acts 20.28 1 Pet. 5.2 The four special Ordinances confin'd by Christ within the Pale of his Church are the Two Seals call'd Sacraments and the Two Keys of the Church the Seals to be dispens'd to each Church by their own Pastour only and the Keys by their own Pastour or Elders Question 10. What are the Seals of the Church Answer The Seals of the Church are Two Baptism And the Lords Supper 1st Baptism for every Believer or Church-Member Act. 2.39 41. chap. 16.15 33. Isa 44.3 Rev. 14.1 Matth. 28.19 with Isa 52.15 1 Cor. 10.1.2 and their immediate infant-seed by sprinkling or pouring Water only on the Face in the Name of the Father Son and Holy Spirit 2. The Lords Supper 1 Cor. 11. chap. 23d verse to the end for such only in a Church as can examine themselves wherein Bread and Wine is receiv'd according to the Institution of Christ by all the Church sitting together in the Evening time Question 11. How are Baptism and the Lord's Supper call'd Seals Answer 1 Cor. 10.2 3 4 Baptism and the Lord's Supper are Seals of the Covenant that is of the Church-Covenant as they Seal to all an outward relation in the Church tho' to the Elect only they Seal Salvation 1st Baptism Seals to Church-Members Gal. 3.27 1 Cor. 1.2 7.14 with 12.12 Heb. 12.24 Ezek. 36.25 1 Pet. 3.21 and their Seed an outward relation to Christ in the Church Covenant and to the Elect also their saving-relation to Christ by his Blood sprinkled And his Spirit pour'd upon them 2. The Lords Supper seals to Church-Members 1 Cor. 10.16 17 and 11.26 their outward Relation to Christ in the Church tho' only the Elect are seal'd to Salvation therein by Christ's Body broken and his Blood shed for them trusted to by Faith Luke 22.19 20. and signify'd by the Bread and Wine Question 12. What are the Keys of the Church Answer Matth. 18.18 The Keys committed by Christ to his Church are two Fellowship And Censure 1st Fellowship Acts 2.42 Isa 26.2 Jer. 51.10 Psal 40.9 10.66.16 Cor. 14.12.19 31.34.2 in Church-Meetings is the Key for opening the Door of the Church to let in the Righteous that keep the Truth in which their Experiences are given in to the Church and the Brethren's Gifts are also exercis'd in Praying and Prophecying 2. Censure is the Key to shut the Door of the Church upon Offenders Matth. 11.15 18. 1 Thess 5.14 2 Thess 3.6 1 Cor. 5.4 5. Psal 149.6 9. Jude 22 23. By Admonition By Withdrawing or By Cutting off in Excommunication as the Offence doth require SECT VI. Of the Right Order of a Church Question 13. What is the right Order of a Church of Christ Answer Psal 119.128 Gal. 6.16 with Mal. 4.6 2 Tim. 3 15 17 Ephes 2.20 2 Pet. 3.2 Gal. 6.16 Isa 8.20 Matth. 15.9 Zech. 7.12 Jer. 8.8 9. All the right Order of a Church must be taken from the written Word of God both from the Old Testament and New which together are the compleat Rule and Canon whereby all things must be order'd in the Church and by this Rule or Canon of the Prophets and Apostles the old Testament and the new the whole Israel of God must walk as ever they 'd have the Peace of God with them therefore all Orders Rules and Canons given by Popes Councils or any other whatsoever are confusion if not according to this Word SECT VII Of the right Ends of a Church Question 14. What are the right Ends of a Church of Christ Answer Ephes 3.21 1 Cor. 14.26 Col. 2.3 4. Phi. 2 5.10 11 Psalm 110.3 Isa 45.23 with Rom. 14.11 Ezek. 20.37 Rev. 14.1 1 John 4.3 Matth. 12.30 The Glory of God and the mutual Edification of his Saints without any regard to human Interest are the only right Ends all true Churches should set before them to advance which 't is the Duty of every one that hath Faith in the Heart openly to profess a willing Subjection to Christ in his Church so coming under the Bond of the Church-Covenant they take the Father's Mark in the Forehead and such only are visible Christians for he that is not for Christ by open Profession is against him Question 15. What time hath God allotted to his Church for worshipping him Answer Gen. 2.3 Ezod 20.9 10. Matth. 12.8 Job 20.19 20. Acts 20.7 Rev. 1.10 Psal 118.24 Heb. 4.7.11 typify'd Ezek. 43.27 and Numb 29.35 The Lord hath appointed in his word one Day in seven for his solemn Service which Day before Christ's Resurrection was the last Day of the Week but is since by the Lord of the Sabbath chang'd to the First-Day in Scripture call'd the Lord's-Day because on that Day our Lord rested from his work of Redemption therefore all Christians should keep the Lords-Day as a holy rest from Sin by attending on Christ in his publick Worship and resting in his Grace Question 16. But is there no other time for worshipping God in publick Answer Ephes 5.16 2 Tim. 4.2 as Acts 13.42 Margent Prov. 8.34 Psal 84.4 10. The Lord hath commanded us to redeem the time and to wait on him out of Season as well as in Season therefore every good Christian should improve all Opportunities on any Day of the Week for hearing the Word of God and worshipping him in the Assemblies of his Saints Question 17. But is a Christian only to worship God in publick Answer John 5.39 Mat. 6.5 6 7. Gen. 18.19 Jos 24.15 Eph. 6.4 18. figur'd 1 Chr. 16.40 43 Jer. 10.25 GOD hath made it the Duty of all Men to study his holy Word and to pray unto him in secret as well as to worship him in publick Therefore Masters of Families and Parents should instruct their Children and Servants in the holy Fear of God praying daily with their Families for the Curse of God resteth upon all those Families that Call not upon his Name Question 18. And shall all in Christ's visible Church on Earth be glorify'd in Heaven Answer There are in Christ's visible Church Two sorts of Worshippers 1st Such as Worship God hypocritically in the outward only Eze. 33.31 33. Matth. 24.51 who shall be cast down into Hell as Deceivers of others and their own Souls 2. Such as Worship God uprightly John 4.24 Matth. 25.46 John 17.24 with the heart as well as outwardly these shall be glorify'd with God for ever in Heaven Question 19. But when will the difference between the good and the bad appear Answer 2 Tim. 4.1 Dan. 2.44 Rev. 21.10.20.2 Mal. 3.17 18.4.1.3 Rev. 20.12 13 14. 2 Cor. 5.10 Math. 13.41 43.25.31 to end The Word of God declares that in the latter day Christ shall have a glorious Kingdom call'd the New Jerusalem when Satan being Chain'd up a Thousand Years we shall discern between the precious and the vile and all the Dead being rais'd in the day of Judgment shall be Sentenc'd by him the wicked into Everlasting Fire with the Devil and his Angels but the righteous he will receive into Glory with himself for ever AMEN 1 John 5.21 Little Children keep your selves from Idols Amen! 2 3 John 4. I have no greater Joy than to hear that my Children walk in Truth as We have receiv'd a Commandment from the Father Jude 24 25. Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling and to present you faultless before the Presence of his Glory with exceeding Joy To the only wise God our Saviour be Glory and Majesty Dominion and Power both now and ever Amen FINIS