AN EXPOSITION OF THE Assemblies Catechism WITH PRACTICAL INFERENCES From each QUESTION As it was carried on in the Lords Days Exercises in DARTMOUTH In the First Year of Liberty 1688. By IOHN FLAVELL Preacher of the Gospel in DARTMOUTH 2 Tim. 1.13 Hold fast the form of sound words which thou hast heard of me in faith and love which is in Christ Iesus LONDON Printed for Tho. Cockerill at the Three Legs in the Poultry over against Stocks-Market 1692. And because the Answers therein are some of them pretty large and Treat of the most profound Mysteries of our Religion therefore several Persons have bestowed their good and laudable Pains some in descanting more largely and proving by Scriptural Reasons the Particulars and one has shewn the harmony thereof with the Articles and Homilies of the Church of England designed I suppose to remove the prejudice which some have taken against it Others have parted the Questions and Answers into several little ones under each to make them more intelligible to younger ones and more easy to be remembred Among whom Worthy Orthodox and Excellent Mr. Iohn Flavell may be ranked who among other of his many and most profitable Labours applied himself to the chewing of this Bread of Life or crumbling it into smaller pieces for the Cenveniency of Children and indeed of all wherein as in all his other Works he hath shewn himself a Workman that needs not to be ashamed There needs no other recommendations to this Posthumus Piece but the worthy Author's Name he was removed before he had compleatly finished it he had prepared his Questions and Answers upon the second Petition of the Lord's Prayer but lived not to propose them in the publick Congregation God then translated him into his Kingdom of Glory above while he was so industriously endeavouring to promote the Kingdom of Grace below The other five remaining Questions and Answers to compleat the Work were done by a ruder hand as may easily be discerned by any observant Reader who will find himself transfer'd from a plain clear and delightful Stile method and manner into more rough disorderly and unpleasant ones for who indeed could equal this Divine Labourer Not the Compleater who would account himself to have made very great Attainments in Divinity and Usefulness if he were left but a few furlongs behind him Let the Reader use and peruse this Piece and he will see cause to bless God for the Author VALE TO THE READER THE Divine Providence having unexpectedly cast my Lot for a few Days in Dartmouth where that blessed man of God Mr. John Flavell did for many years honour Christ and was honoured by him I have been favoured with a sight of that most judicious Explication of the Assemblies Catechism which is emitted herewith Being desired to testify my Respect to the worthy Author by Prefacing this Excellent Labour of his with a few Lines I can truly say as sometimes Beza of Calvin Now Mr. Flavell is dead Life will be less sweet and Death less bitter to me My heart bleeds to look on this desolate Place and not to see him that whilst living was the glory of it But neither the Author nor his Writings stand in need of the commendation of others much less of mine His Works already published have made his Name precious in both Englands and it will be so as long as the Earth shall endure There are some considerations which may cause the Reader to expect and he will not find himself disappointed therein that which is extraordinary in this little Manuel for the Author's Heart was very much engaged in doing this Service for Christ in thus feeding his Lambs And he did himself design the Publication of what is here committed to the Press and was very desirous with an holy submission to the Will of God to have perfected this Work before his Decease but had strange intimations that he should finish his Course before that could be done When he did viva voce deliver his Meditations there were many Enlargements and lively Passages which are not here inserted nevertheless here is as much as he thought needful for publick view not being willing that his Book should be Voluminous In his last Catechetical Exercise concerning Hallowing the Name of God he was exceedingly enlarged but he must himself go into the Kingdom of Glory when he intended to have discoursed on that Petition Thy Kingdom come He also began some Meditations on the Joys of Heaven But before he had an opportunity to express what had been in his Heart the Lord Iesus said unto him Enter thou into the Joy of thy Lord. And thus doth it happen many times to the eminent and holy Servants of God Another Consideration recommending what comes herewith is that it was amongst Mr. Flavell's last Works The 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Last Sayings of wise and great Men have been esteemed Oraculous and the Scripture puts an Emphasis on the last Words of David the sweet singer of Israel 2 Sam. 23.1 Not that those were the last words that ever David spake only they were written not long before his Death when he was come near Heaven So was what is now put into the Reader 's Hand written by Mr. Flavell not long before his translation to the World of Souls where the Spirits of Iust men are made perfect There was a more than ordinary presence of God with him to his last and in his last Days not the last Sermon that he preached which was June 21. 1691. He did more than once surprize his Hearers with an Intimation that that might be the last time he should speak to them in the Name of the Lord. And was not then the Secret of the Lord with him Dartmouth will know and Devonshire will know that there has been a Prophet among them And now my Soul bleeds to Look on the dear Flock of God which are as Sheep without a Shepherd The Lord Iesus the great Shepherd of the Sheep bave compassion on them and give them a Shepherd like to his blessed Servant Flavell who did for many years feed them with Knowledge and with Understanding Dartmouth March the 21th 1691 2. Increase Mather AN EXPOSITION OF THE Assemblies Shorter Catechism 1 Question Of Man's Chief End WHat is the Chief End of Man A. Man's Chief End is to glorify God and to enjoy him for ever Q. 1. Seeing a Chief supposeth an inferior End What is that inferior End for which man was made A. It was prudently soberly and mercifully to govern use and dispose of other Creatures in the Earth Sea and Air over which God gave man the Dominion Gen. 1.26 And God said Let us make man in our Image after our likeness and let them have domonion over the Fish of the Sea and over the Fowl of the Air and over the Cattel and over all the Earth and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the Earth So Psal. 8.6 Thou madest him to have dominion over
of a trumpet Q. 11. VVhat doth his ascension teach us A. Heavenly-mindedness Col. 3.1 2. If ye them be risen with Christ seek those things which are above where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God set your affections on things above and not oâ— things on the earth And an encouragement in our Christian race Heb. 12.1 2. VVherefore seeing we also are compasâ—ed about with so great a cloud of witnesses let us lay aside every â—eight and the sin which doth so easily beset us and let us run with â—atience the race that is set before us looking unto Iesus the auâ—hor and finisher of our faith VVho for the joy that was set before him endured the cross despising the shame and is sate down at the right hand of the Throne of God The Second Part of the 28th Question of Christ's Exaltation Quest. 1. WHat was the Third degree of Christ's Exaltation A. His sitting at God's right hand in Heaven Heb. 1.3 VVhen he had by himself purged our sins sate down on the right hand of the majesty on high Q. 2. VVhat doth God's right hand signify A. A State of Honour Heb. 1.13 But to which of the angels said he at any time Sit on my right hand until I make thine enemies thy footstool And Power Mat. 26.64 Hereafter shall ye see the son of man sitting on the right hand of power Q. 3. VVhat is implied in Christ's sitting there A. That his work on earth is finished Heb. 10.11 12. But this man after he had offered one sacrifice for sin for ever sate down on the right hand of God Q. 4. VVhat else doth it signify A. Christ's power over all enemies Psal. 110.2 The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Sion rule thou in the midst of thine enemies Q. 5. VVhat learn we from Christ's sitting there A. The high honour Believers are advanced to by Christ. Eph. 2.6 And hath raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Iesus Q. 6. VVhat is the last step of Christ's Exaltation A. His coming to Judgment Acts 10.42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be judge of quick and dead Q. 7. It is certain there shall be a Iudgment-day A. Yes the Scripture assures it 2 Cor. 5.10 For we must all appear before the judgment-seat of Christ. And every man's conscience witnesses to it Rom. 2.16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Iesus Christ according to my Gospel Q. 8. What is the first property of Christ's Iudgment A. It will be awful and solemn 1 Thes. 4.16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout with the voice of the Arch-angel and with the Trâ—mp of God and the dead in Christ shall rise first Q. 9. VVhat is the second Property of it A. It will be exact and critical Rom. 2.16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Iesus Christ according to my Gospel Mat. 12.36 But I say unto you That every idle word that men shall speak they shall give account thereof in the day of Iudgment Q. 10. What is the third Property of it A. It will be an universal Judgment Rev. 20.12 And I saw the dead small and great stand before God and the books were opened Q. 11. How is this a part of Christ's Exaltation A. He now acts in the fulness of his Kingly Power Mat. 25.34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand Come ye blessed of my father inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world And this will rowl away the reproach of his enemies Rev. 1.7 Behold he cometh with clouds and every eye shall see him and they also which pierced him Q. 12. What learn we from Christ's being Iudge A. That Believers shall not be cast in Judgment Rom. 8.1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them that are in Christ Iesus Q. 13. What learn we hence A. The deplorable State of Christless Persons Luke 19.27 But those mine enâ—mies that would not that I should reign over them bring hither and slay them before me Q. 14. What else learn we from Christ's Iudgment A To give all diligence to be found of him in peace 2 Pet. 3.14 Wherefore beloved seeing that ye lock for such things â—e diligent that ye may be sound of him in peace Of the Application of Christ. Quest. 29. HOW are we made partakers of the Redemption purchased by Christ A. We are made parâ—akers of the Redemption purchased by Chriâ—t by the effectual Application of it to us by his Holy Spirit Q. 1. What did our Redemption cost Christ A. It cost him his own Blood to obtain it Heb. 9.12 Neither by the blood of Goats and Calves but by his own blood he entred once into the holy place having obtained eternal redemption for us Q. 2. Can none have the benefit of it exceept it be applied to them A. No if Christ be not applied we cannot be saved Iohn 1.12 But as many as received him to them gave he power to become theâ— Sons of God even to them that believe on his name Q. 3 Whos 's work or office is it to apply Christ to us A. It 's the office and work of God's Spirit Tit. 3.45 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour towards man appeared not by works of righteousness which we have done but according to his mercy he saved us by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost Q. 4. Wâ—at Means doth the Spirit use in applying Christ A. The external means he makes use of is the Ministry of the Gospel 1 Cor. 3.5 Who then is Paul and who is Apollo but Ministers by whom ye believed Q. 5. Is this sâ—fficient of it self A. No the Blessing and Power of the Spirit must accompany it or Christ cannot be applied 1 Thes. 1.5 6. For our Gospel came not unto you in word only but also in power and in the Holy Ghost and in much assurance as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake And ye became followers of us and of the Lord having received the word in much affliction with joy of the Holy Ghost Q. 6. To whom doth the Spirit apply Christ A. To those that were given him of the Father before the world was Acts 13.48 And as many as were ordained to eternal life believed John 14.17 Even the spirit of truth whom the world cannot receive because it seeth him not neither knoweth him but ye know him for he dwelleth with you and shall be in you Q. 7. Is the Application of Christ to a Soul finisht at once A. Tho the first act of Faith unites the Soul to Christ yet it is a continued act 1 Pet. 2.4 To whom coming as unto a living stone Q. 8. What learn you from hence A. What a
the workâ— of thy hands thou hast put all things under his feet Q. 2. What then is to be thought of those men who being wholly intent upon inferior things forget and neglect their principal End A. They are dead whilst they live 1 Tim. 5.6 But she that liveth in pleasure is dead whilst she liveth They have their Portion in this Life Psal. 17.14 From men of the world which have their Portion in this Life and their end is destruction Phil. 3.19 Whose end is destruction Q. 3. How can man glorifie God seeing he is perfectly glorious in himself A. Man cannot glorifie God by adding any new degree of glory to him Iob. 35.7 If thou be righteous what givest thou him but by manifesting his glory with the Lips Psal. 50.23 Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me or with the life Mat. 5.16 Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorifie your Father which is in Heaven Q. 4. Wherein consists the enjoyment of God A. It consists first In the facial vision of him in Heaven Secondly In full conformity to him 1 Ioh. 3.2 But we know that when he shall appear we shall be like him for we shall see him as he is Thirdly In that full satisfaction which results from both the former Psal. 17.15 I shall be satisfied when I awake with thy likeness Q 5. Can none enjoy him in Heaven who do not glorifie him on Earth A. No adult person can Scripturally expect happiness in Heaven without holiness on Earth Heb. 12.14 And holiness without which no man shall see the Lord. Rom. 8.30 Whom he justified them he also glorified Q. 6. How comes the glory and enjoyment of God our Chief End A. He is our Master and rightful Owner and Benefactor we receive our Being and Preservation from him Of him and through him and therefore to him be all Things Rom. 11.36 Q. 7. Do all men make God their chief End A. No they do not some make their sensual Pleasure their chief End Phil. 3.19 Whose God is their Belly and some the World Col. 3.5 Mortifie therefore your members which are upon the Earth and Covetousness which is Idolatry Q. 8. What are the Signs of a man's making himself his chief End A. Those make themselves their chief End who ascribe the glory of what they have or do to themselves and not to God Dan. 4.30 The King spake and said Is not this great Babylon which I have built Isa. 10.18 For he saith By the strength of my hand have I done it and by my wisdom for I am prudent therefore they sacrifice to their own net and burn Incense unto their Drag Hab. 1.16 Q. 9. Why are the glorifying and enjoying of God put together as making up our chief End A. Because no man can glorifie God that takes him not for his God and none takes him for his God that takes him not for his Supream Good and both these being essentially included in this Notion of the chief End are therefore justly put together Q. 10. What is the first Truth inferr'd from hence A. That God hath dignified Man above all other Creatures on Earth in giving him a capacity of glorifying God here and of enjoying him hereafter Q. 11. What is the second truth inferr'd hence A. That the Soul of man is not annihilated by Death but advanced by it Phil. 1.21 To die is gain V. 23. Having a desire to depart and to be with Christ which is far better Q. 12. What is the third truth inferr'd hence A. That it is the duty and wisdom of every Christian to renounce deny and forsake all inferior Interests and Enjoyments when they come in competition with the glory of God and our enjoyment of him Luke 14.33 So likewise whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath cannot be my Disciple Q. 13. What is the fourth Inferrence hence A. That we are to abhor and renounce all those Doctrines and Practices that debase the glory of God and exalt and magnifie the Creature Of the Scriptures as our Rule Quest. 2. WHat Rule hath God given â—o direct us how we may glorifie and enjoy him A. The Word of God which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament is the only rule to direct us how we may glorify and enjoy him Q. 1. How can the Scriptures be called the Word of God seeing the things contained therein were spoken and written by men A. They are truly and properly called the Word of God because they came not by the Will of Man but holy Men of God spoke as they were moved by the Holy Ghost 2 Pet. 1.21 Q. 2. What are the principal Arguments to persuade us that the Scriptures are of Divine Authority and Inspiration A. Three things especially convince us First The Holiness of the Doctrine therein contained Secondly The awful efficacy thereof on the Soul Thirdly The uncontroulable Miracles by which they are sealed put it beyond all rational doubt that they are the very Word of God Q. 3. What is the Holiness of the Scriptures and how doth that prove them to be God's Word A. The Holiness of the Scriptures doth appear in two things First In commanding and encouraging whatsoever is pure and holy Phil. 4.8 Whatsoever things are pure Secondly In forbidding all unholiness under pain of Damnation 1 Cor. 6.9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the Kingdom of God c. This shews that they came not from Satan being cross to his design nor from men it being against his corrupt nature and therefore from God only Q. 4. What is their Authority and Efficacy on the Soul and how doth that prove them Divine A. Their Authority and Efficacy on the Soul consists in three Things First In the power they have to search and discover the secrets of men Heb. 4.12 The Word of God is quick and powerful and sharper than any two-edged Sword piercing even to the dividing asunder of Soul and Spirit of the Ioynts and Marrow and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart Secondly In their converting Efficacy changing and renewing the Soul Psal. 19.7 The Law of the Lord is perfect converting the Soul Thirdly In their chearing and restoring Efficacy when the Soul is cast down under any inward or outward trouble Psal. 19.8 The Statutes of the Lord are right rejoycing the Heart No humane Power can do such things as these Iohn 17 17. Sanctify them through thy truth thy word is truth Q. 5. How do Miracles confirm it A. Because all proper Miracles are wrought only by the hand of God Iohn 3.2 And no man can do these miracles that thou doest except God be with him and so are his seal to whatsoever he affixes them and it consists not with his truth and holiness to set it to a forgery Q. 6. VVhat was the end of writing the word A. That the Church to the end of the
world might have a sure known standing Rule to try and judge all things by and not to be left to the uncertainty of Traditions Iohn 5.39 Search the Scriptures for in them ye think ye have Eternal Life and they are they which testify of me Q. 7. Doth not the Authority of the Scriptures depend on the Church Fathers and Councils A. No the Scriptures are not built on the Authority of the Church but the Church on them Ephes 2.19 20. And are built on the Foundations of the Apostles and Prophets Iesus Christ himself being the chief Corner Stone And for Councils and Fathers the Scriptures are not to be tried by them but they by the Scriptures Isa. 8.20 To the Law and to the Testimony if they speak not according to this word 't is because there is no light in them Q. 8. VVhat may be fairly inferr'd from this Proposition That the Scriptures are the word of God A. Three things may be thence inferr'd First The perfection of the Scriptures which being the only rule given by God must therefore be perfect Secondly That it is the right of common People to read them Iohn 5.39 Search the Scriptures Acts 17.11 These were more noble than those of Thessalonica in that they received the word with all readiness of mind and search the Scriptures daily whether those things were so Thirdly That we owe no obedience to the Injunctions of men farther than they are sufficiently warranted by the written Word Mat. 15.9 But in vain do they worship me teaching for Doctrines the Commandments of Men. Of Faith and Obedience Quest. 3 VVHat do the Scriptures principally teach A. The Scriptures principally teach what Man is to believe concerning God and what duty God requires of Man Q. 1. VVhy is Faith conjoyned with Obedience and put before it A. Because Faith is the principle from whence all Obedience flows and no man can perform any duty aright in the estate of unbelief Heb. 11.6 But without Faith it is impossible to please him for he that cometh to God must believe that he is Q. 2. Can there be no saving Faith where the Scriptures are not known and preached A. No for the Apostle saith Rom. 10.14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard and how shall they hear without a Preacher and how shall they preach except they be sent And v. 17. So then Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the VVord of God Q. 3. Are not we bound to believe what Learned men teach us as Points of Faith though the things â—hey teach be not contained in the VVord of God A. No if the things they teach be not contained expresly or by necessary consequence in the Word of God we are not obliged to believe them as points of Faith Isa. 8.20 To the Law and to the Testimony if they speak not according to this Word it is because there is no light in them Gal. 1.8 Though we or an Angel from Heaven preach any other Gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you let him be accursed And Christ hath charged us Mat. 23.10 To call no man Master for one is your Master even Christ. Q. 4. Are there some things in Scripture more excellent than others Because it 's said the Scriptures principally teach matters of Faith and Duty A. Every part of Scripture is alike pure Prov. 30.5 Every word of God is pure and of equal authority but not of equal weight as several pieces of Gold are alike pure and of the same stamp but not of equal value Q. 5. What may be inferred hence for Use A. First Hence 't is our duty to examine what we hear by the Word and not receive any Doctrine because men confidently affirm it but because the Scriptures require it Acts 17.11 These were more noble than those of Thessalonica in that they received the Word with all readiness of mind and searched the Scriptures daily whether these things were so Secondly That Christian Religion is not notional but practical and that impractical Faith saves no man Iam. 2.20 Faith without Works is dead God is a Spirit Quest. 4. WHat is God A. God is a Spirit Infinite Eternal and Unchangeable in his Being Wisdom Power Holiness Iuâ—tice Goodness and Truth Q. 1. Can the Nature of God be defined so as men may express properly and strictly what God is A No Iob 11.7 Canst thou by searching find out God canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection We do then conceive most rightly of God when we acknowledge him to be unconceiveable and therefore one being ask'd the question what God is answered rightly If I fully knew that I should be a God my self for God only knows his own Essence Q. 2. How many ways are there by which men may know and describe the Nature of God tho still with imperfect Knowledge A. There are two ways of knowing God in this Life First By way of affirmation affirming that of God by way of eminence which is excellent in the Creature as when we affirm him to be Wise Good Merciful c. Secondly By way of Negation when we remove from God in our Conceptions all that is imperfect in the Creature so we say God is Immense Infinite Immutable and in this sense we also call him a Spirit i. e. he is not a gross corporeal Substance Q. 3. How many sorts of Spirits are there And of which sort is God A. There be two sorts of Spirits created and finite as Angels and the Souls of Men are Secondly Uncreated and Infinite and such a Spirit God only is infinitely above all other Spirits Q. 4. If God be a Spirit in what sense are we to understand all those Scriptures which speak of the Eyes of the Lord the Ears and Hand of God A. We are to understand them as Expressions of God in condescention to the weakness of our understandings even as the Glory of Heaven is exprest to us in Scripture by a City and the Royal Feast These shadows are useful to us whilst we are in the Body but we shall know him in Heaven after a more perfect manner Q 5. What may be inferr'd from the Spiritual Nature of God A. Hence learn that it is both sinful and dangerous to frame an Image or Picture of God Who can make an Image of his Soul which yet is not so perfect a Spirit as God is And as it is sinful to attempt it so it is impossible to do it Deut. 4.15 16. Take ye therefore good heed unto your selves for ye saw no manner of Similitude on the day that the Lord spoke to you in Horeb out of the â—â—ast of the Fire lest ye corrupt your selves and make you a graven Image the similitude of any figure c. Q. 6. What else may be inferr'd from thence A. That our Souls are the most noble and excellent part of
3.6 Received up into glory Q. 6. Why did he assume our Nature A. That he might die in it for our Salvation Heb. 2.15 And delivered them who through fear of death were all their life time subject to bondage Q 7. Why did he rise in it after Death A. He raised it from the dead for our Justification Rom. 4.25 Who was delivered for our offences and was raised again for our Iustification Q 8. Why did he ascend in our Nature into Heaven A. To be a Mediator of intercession in our Nature Heb 7.25 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them Q 9. What is the first Instruction from hence A. That the Body of Christ is not every where but is contained in Heaven Acts 3.21 Whom the heaven must receive till the times of restitution of all things Q. 10. VVhat is the second Iustruction A. That Christ is full of tender compassions to his peoples infirmities Heb. 4.15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities but was in all points tempted like as we are yet without sin Q. 11. VVhat is the third Instruction A. That great and admirable is the glory designed for the bodies of Believers Phil. 3.21 VVho shall change our vile bodies that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself Q. 12. VVhat is the last Instruction A. That the bodily Eyes of Believers after the Resurrection shall see Christ in glory Iob 19.26 27. And though after my skin worms destroy this body yet in my flesh shall I see God VVhom I shall see for my self and mine eyes shall behold and not another Of Christ's Offices Quest. 23. WHat Offices doth Christ execute as our Redeemer A. Christ as our Redeemer doth execute the Office of a Prophet of a Priest and of a King both in his Estate of Humiliation and Exaltation Q. 1. What are the States and Conditions of our Redeemer A. Christ's States are twofold namely his State of Humiliation and his State of Exaltation Phil. 2.8 9. And being found in fashion as a man he humbled himself and became obedient unto death even the death of the cross VVherefore God also hath highly exalted him and given him a name above every name Q. 2. How many Offices belongs to Christ in these States A. Christ hath a threefold Office namely of a Prophet of a Priest and of a King Q. 3 Why doth Christ take all these three Offices A. Because they are all necessary for our salvation and we have the benefit of them all 1 Cor. 1.30 Who of God is made unto us wisdom and righteousness and sanctification and redemption Q. 4. Can no man take Christ in one Office and not in another A. No whoever will have the benefit of any one must receive him in all Acts 5.31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a prince and a saviour for to give repentance unto Israel and forgiveness of Sins Q. 5. What respect have the Offices of Christ to the Promises A. The Promises flow out of them as out of their Fountain 2 Cor. 1.20 For all the promises of God in him are Yea and in him Amen Q. 6. What Promises flow out of the Prophetical Office A. All the Promises of Illumination Guidance and Direction flow out of Christ's Prophetical Office Q. 7. What Promises flow out of the Priestly Office A. All the Promises of Pardon and Peace flow out of it Q. 8. What Promises flow out of the Kingly Office A. All the Promâ—ses of Defence Protection and Deliverances Q 2. What is the first instruction A. Hence we learn the compleatness of Christ for all the wants of his people Col. 2.10 And ye are compleat in him Q. 10. What is the second Instruction A. Hence we learn the folly and misery of all Hypocrites that close partially with Christ. Q 11 What is the third Instruction A. Hence we learn the singular dignity of the Lord Jesus None ever have all those Offices but Christ. Q. 12. What is the last Instruction A. That Faith is a considerate act and requires much deliberation Of Câ—rist's Prophetical Office Quest. 24. HOW doth Christ execute the Office of a Prophet A. Christ executeth the Office of a Prophet in revealing to us by his word and spirit the will of God for our salvation Q. 1. What doth Christ's Prophetical Office imply A. It implies man's natural blindness and ignorance 1 Cor. 2.14 But the natural man receiveth not the things of the spirit of God for they are foolishness unto him neither can he know them because they are spiritually discerned Q. 2. What â—lse doth it imply A. That Christ is the original and fountain of all that light which guides us to salvation 2 Cor. 4.6 7. For God who commanded the light to shine out of darkness hath shined in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Iesus Christ. Q. 3. How doth Christ teach men the will of God A. He doth it by external Revelation of it Acts 3.22 For Moses truly said unto the fathers A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren like unto me him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you And by internal illumination Luke 24.45 Then opened he their understanding that they might understand the Scripture Q. 4 What need then of man's ministry A. Very much for Christ hath instituted Ministers as instruments by whom he will teach us Eph. 4 11 12. And he gave some Apostles and some Prophets and some Evangelists and some Pastors and Teachers for the perfecting of the Saints for the work of the Ministry for the edifying of the body of Christ. Acts 26.18 To open their eyes and to turn them from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God that they may receive forgiveness of sins Q. 5. Can no man savingly know the will of God without the teachings of Christ A. No though common knowledge may be obtained in a natural way yet not saving Mat. 11.25 At that time Iesus answered and said I thank thee O father Lord of heaven and earth because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent and hast revealed them unto babes Q. 6. How appears it that Christ is appointed to this office A. We have the written word for it Acts 3.22 A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren like unto me him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you Q. 7. What is the first Instruction hence A. None need be discouraged at their natural weakness if Christ be their Teacher Mat. 11.25 At that time Iesus answered and said I thank thee O father Lord of heaven and
destitute thing the Soul is that 's out of Christ. Rev. 3.17 18. Because thou sayest I am rich and increased with goods and have need of nothing and knowest not that thou art wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked Q. 9. What elsâ— doth it teach us A. The riches and dignity of Believers Christ and all his purchases are theirs 1 Cor. 3.22 23. Whether Paul or Apollo or Câ—phas or the world or life or death or things present or things to come all are yours and ye are Christ's and Christ is God's Q. 10. What else doth it teach us A. The Righteousness of God in the destruction of all unbelievers Iohn 5.40 Mark 16.16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved but he that believeth not shall be damned Of our Vnion with Christ. Quest. 30. HOW doth the Spirit apply to us the Redemption puâ—chased by Christ A. By working faith in us thereby uniting us to Christ in our effectual Calling Q. 1. Can none have saving benefit by Christ but such as are united to him A. No for as Adam 's Sin could not hurt us except we had been in hin so Christ's Redemption cannot profit us except we are in him 1 Cor. 1.30 But of him are ye in Christ Iesus who of God is made unto us wisdom righteousness sanctification and redemption Q 2. What are the Bonds of this Union A. The Spirit on God's part 1 Iohn 3.24 And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him and he in him and hereby we know that he abideth in us by the spirit which he hath given us And Faith on our part Eph 3.17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith Q. 3. What is the first Property of this Union A. It is an intimate Union Eph. 5.30 For we are members of his body of his flesh and of his bones Q. 4. What is the second Property A. It is an Union never to be dissolved Rom. 8.35 38. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ Shall tribulation distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or peril or sword for I am persuaded that neither death nor life nor angels nor principalities nor powers nor things present nor things to come nor height nor depth nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Iesus our Lord. Q. 5. What is the third Propety of this Union A. It makes Christ and all that he hath purchased become ours 1 Cor. 3.23 All are yours and ye are Christ's and Christ is God's Q. 6. What is the fourth property of this Union A. It is the foundation and root of all our spiritual and acceptable Obedience Iohn 15.4 Abide in me and I in you as the branch cannot bear fruit of it self except it abide in the vine no more can ye except ye abide in me Q. 7. What is the first Inference from hence A. That saving Grace in the Saints is immortal being secâ—â—red to them in and by Christ. Col. 3.3 Your life is hid with 〈◊〉 in God Q. 8. What is the second Inference A. That the relation between Christ and Believers is verâ— dear and intimate Eph. 5.30 For we are members of his 〈◊〉 of his flesh and of his bones Q. 9. What is the third Inference A. That Believers need not be afraid to go down to 〈◊〉 Grave Rom. 8.38 For I am perswaded that neither death 〈◊〉 life nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from thâ— love of God which is in Christ Iesus our Lord. And this Unioâ— holds after death Mat. 22.31 32. But as touching the resâ—rection of the dead have ye not read that which was spoken unto yâ—â— by God saying I am the God of Abraham and the God 〈◊〉 Isaac and the God of Iacob God is not a God of the dead but 〈◊〉 the living Q 10. What is the fourth Inference A. That in wronging and persecuting the Saints 〈◊〉 wrong and persecute Christ himself Acts 9.4 And he fell tâ— the earth and heard a voice saying unto him Saul Saul Why persecutest thou me Q. 11. What is the fifth Inference A. That in relieving and refreshing the Saints we relieve and refresh Christ himself Mat. 25.34 35. For I was an hungry and ye gave me meat and I was thirsty and ye gave 〈◊〉 drink I was a stranger and ye took me in naked and ye cloathâ—â— me I was sick and ye visited me I was in prison and ye came 〈◊〉 me Ver. 40. In as much as ye have done it unto one of the leaf of these my brethren ye have done it unto me Q. 12. What is the last Inference A. That there is a sympathy in Christ under all the pressureâ— and grievances of his people Heb. 4.15 We have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities 〈◊〉 was in all points tempted like as we are yet without sin Of Effectual Calling Quest. 31. WHAT is effectual Calling A. Effectual Calling is the work of God's Spirit whereby convincing us of our sin and misery enlightening our minds in the knowledge of Christ and renewing one wills he doth perswade and enable us to embrace Iesus Christ freely offered to us in the Gospel Q. 1. What makes the difference between effectual and ineffectual Calling A. Ineffectual calling is when men have nothing but the external sound of the Gospel Mat. 20.16 For many be called and few chosen Effectual is when the Spirit works in conjunction with the Word Iohn 6.45 It is written in the prophets And they shall be all taught of God every man therefore that hath heard and hath learned of the father cometh unto me Q. 2. What is the First act of the Spirit in Effectual Calling A. Conviction of Sin Iohn 16.8 And when he is come he will reprove the world of sin Q. 3. Do the Called of God hear any voice from Heaven A. Ordinarily it is a call without sound yet as efficacious as an audible Voice from Heaven Q. 4. What is the Second act of the Spirit in our Effectual calling A. The illumination of the mind in the knowledge of Christ. Acts 26.18 To open their eyes and to turn them from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God Q. 5. In what things doth it enlighten them A. In this That Christ is their only remedy Acts 4.12 Neither is there salvation in any other for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved And their all-sufficient remedy Heb. 7.25 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him Q. 6. What is the Third Act A. His renewing of the Sinner's will and making it flexible Psal. 110.3 Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power Ezek. 36.26 A new heart also will I give you and a new spirit will I put within you and I will take away the stony heart out of
Author of Sanctification A. God only Iude ver 1. To them that are sanctified by God the Father Q. 3. What is the instrument of it A. The Word of God Iohn 17.17 Sanctify them througâ— thy truth thy word is truth Q. 4 What part of man is sanctified A. Every part both of the Soul and Body 1 Thes. 5.23 And the very God of peace sanctâ—â—y you wâ—olly and I pray God your whole spirit soul and body be prâ—served blameless unto the coming of our Lord Iesus Christ Q. 5. Is Sanctification perfected at once A. No but by degrees 2 Pet. 3.18 But grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Iesus Christ. Q. 6. VVhen will it be made perfect A. When we come to Heaven and not before 1 Cor. 13.10 11. But when that which is perfect is come then that which is in part shall be done away Q. 7. What are the signs of true Sanctification A. When it runs into all parts of our Conversation 1 Pet. 1.15 But as he which hath called you is holy so be ye holy in all manner of conversation Secondly And continues to the end Rev. 22.11 Let him that is holy be holy still Q. 8. What is the inseparable companion of Sanctification A. Righteousness towards men Luke 1.74 75. That he would grant unto us that we being delivered out of the hands of our enemies might serve him without fear in holiness and righteousness before him all the days of our life Q. 9. What is opposite to Sanctification A. All filthiness of Flesh and Spirit 2 Cor. 7.1 Having therefore these promises dearly beloved let us cleanse our selves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit Q. 10. What is the priviledge of the sanctified A. They are all elected and shall be glorified 1 Pet. 1. 2 4 Elect according to the fore-knowledge of God the father through sanctification of the spirit to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that fadeth not away reserved in heaven for you Q. 11. What is the case of them who live and die unsanctified A. They shall never see God Heb. 12.14 Follow peace with all men and boliness without which no man shall see the Lord. Q. 12. What differenceth true from pretended Sanctification A. True Sanctification purgeth the heart from the love of sin Rom. 7.15 For that which I do I allow not And the life from the dominion of sin â—om â—â— 19. As ye have yielded your members servants to 〈◊〉 and to iniquity unto iniquity even so now yield youâ— members servants to righteousness unto holiness Q. 13. May great sinners be sanctâ—fied A. Yes the Spirit of God can sanctify the vilest heart 1 Cor. 6.11 And such were some of you but ye are washed but ye are sanctified Of Assurance the fruit of Iustification Quest. 36. WHAT are the benefits which in this life do either accompany or â—low from Iustification Adoption and Sanctification A. The benefits which in this life do either accompany or flow from Iustification Adoption and Sanctification are assurance of God's love peace of Conscience joy in the Holy Ghost increase of Grace and perseverance therein to the end Q. 1. Is Assurance possible to be attained in this Life A. Yes for fome have had it Cant. 6.3 I am my beloveds and my beloved is mine And all Christians are commanded to strive for it 2 Pet. 1.10 Wherefore the rather â—rethren give diligence to make your calling and election sure Q. 2. How many sorts of assurance are there A. There is an objective Assurance 2 Tim. 2.19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure having this seal The Lord knoweth them that are his And a subjective or personal Assurance Gal. 2.20 Who loved me and gave himself for me Q. 3. Is personal Assurance perfect in this Life A. No it admits of doubts and fears which interrupts it and it is not always at one height 1 Cor. 13.10 When that which is psrfect is come then that which is in part shall be done away Q. 4. On what Testimony is personal Assurance built A. Upon the Testimony of God's Spirit witnessing with ours Rom. â— 16 The spirit it self beareth witness with our spirit that we are the children of God Q. 5. Doth the Spirit make use of signs in us to 〈◊〉 us A. Yes Ordinarily he doth 1 Iohn 3.14 We know thâ—â— we are passed from death to life because we love the brethren Aâ— ver 24. Hereby we know that he abideth in us by the spirit whicâ— he hath given us Q. 6. How is true assurance discerned from presumption A. True assurance humbles the Soul Gal. 2.20 I 〈◊〉 crucified with Christ nevertheless I live yet not I but Chriâ—â— liveth in me And makes the Soul afraid of Sin 2 Cor. 7.1 Having therefore these promises dearly beloved let us cleanse 〈◊〉 selves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit perfecting holiness iâ— the fear of God Q. 7. What is the usual season of Assurance A. The time of greatest sufferings for Christ. 1 Pet. 4.14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ happy 〈◊〉 ye for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you Q. 8. Is personal Assurance absolutely necessary to Salvation A. No a man may be saved and in Christ without it Isa. 50.10 Who is among you that feareth the Lord that obeyeth the voice of his servant that walketh in darkness and hath no light Let him trust in the name of the Lord and stay upâ—â— his God Q. 9. What is the fruit of Assurance A. Joy unspeakable amidst outward Troubles Rom. 5.11 And not only so but we also joy in God through our Lord Iesus Christ by whom we have now received the atonement Q. 10. What sins usually eclipse our Assurance A. Negligence in duty starves it 2 Pet. 1.10 Give diligence to make your calling and election sure For if ye do these things ye shall never fall And sinning against light stabs it Psal. 51.8 Make me to hear joy and gladness that the bonâ— which thou hast broken may rejoyce Q. 11. What is the first Inference from this Doctrine A. That no unregenerate Person can have any Assurance for it is the fruit of Justification Adoption and Sanctification Q. 12. What is the second inference A. That all the Joys of Heaven are not to come buâ— â—ome communicated in this life 1 Pet. 1.8 Whom having not seen ye love in whom though now ye see him not yet believing ye rejoyce with joy unspeakable and full of glory Q. 13. What is the third inference A. That assured Believers need to be circumspect persons that they grieve not the Spirit Eph. 4.30 And grieve not the holy spirit of God whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption Of Peace of Conscience Quest. 1. WHat doth the word Peace signify in Scripture A. In the Language of the Old Testament it signifies all temporal good 1 Sam. 25.6 Peace be both to thee and peace be to thine house and peace be unto
no hope and without God in the world Q. 14. Wâ—at â—s the last Instruction hence A. That those that perish in the midst of Ordinances and means of Salvation will perish with aggravated perdition Matth. 11.23 And thou Capernaum which art exalted unto heaven shalt be brought down to hell for if the mighty works which have been done in thee had been done in Sodom it would have remained until this day Of the Word read and heard Quest. 89. HOw is the Word made effectual to Salvation A. The Spirit of God maketh the reading but especially the preaching of the Word an effectual means of convincing and converting sinners and building them up in holiness and comfort through Faith unto Salvation Q. 1. What mean you by the Word A. By the Word is meant the Word of God consigned to writing in the Books of the Old and New Testament which though it be ministred by men yet it is no other than the very Word of God and as such to be received 1 Thess. 2.13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing because when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us ye received it not as the word of men but as it is in truth the word of God c. Q. 2. Whence is the efficacy of this Word A. It is wholly from the Spirit of God that it becomes effectual to any mans Salvation 1 Cor. 3 6 7. I have planted and Apollo watered but God gave the increase So then neither is he that planteth any thing neither he that watereth but God that giveth the increase Q. 3. Is the reading of the Scripture an Ordinance of God for mens Salvation A. Yes it is Deut. 17.19 And it shall be with him and he shall read therein all the dayes of his life that he may learn to fear the Lord his God to keep all the words of this law and these statutes to do them And in reading of it God sometimes comes in by his Spirit to mens conversion Acts 8.27 28 29. And he arose and went and behold a man of Ethiopia an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians who had the charge of all her treasure and had come to Ierusalem for to worship was returning and sitting in his chariot read Isaias the prophet Then the spirit said to Philip go near and joyn thy self to his chariot c. Q. 4. Is the hearing of the Word a means of Salvation A. Yes it is Isa. 55.3 Incline your ear and come unto me hear and your soul shall live c. 1 Cor. 1.21 It pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe Q. 5. To what end is the Word useful to men A. The first end and use of the Word is to convince men of their sin and misery out of Christ 1 Cor 14.24 25. But if all prophesie and there come in one that believeth not or one unlearned he is convinced of all he is judged of all And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest c. Q. 6. What is it useful for besides conviction A. 'T is useful for conversion as well as conviction Psal. 19.7 The law of the Lord is perfect converting the soul c. Acts 26.18 To turn them from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God c Q. 7. Doth the Word convince and convert all that hear it A. No but those only that are ordained to Eternal Life Acts 13.48 As many as were ordained to eternal life believed Q. 8. What else is the Word useful for A. To build up the Saints to perfection in Christ Eph. 4.11 12 13. And he gave some apostles and some prophets and some evangelists and some pastours and teachers for the perfecting of the saints for the work of the ministry for the edifying of the body of Christ Till we all come in the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the son of God unto a perfect man unto the measure of the stature of the fulness in Christ. Acts 20.32 And now brethren I commend you to God and to the word of his grace which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all them that are sanctified Q. 9. May the common people read the Scriptures A. Yes 't is a duty commanded by Christ Ioh. 5.39 Search the scriptures c. and commended by the Apostle Acts 17.11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica in that they received the word with all readiness of mind and searched the scriptures dayly whether those things were so Q. 10. Is it their duty or liberty also to preach it A. No it is not for besides abilities for that work there must be a call Rom. 10.14 15. How shall they hear without a preacher and how shall they preach except they be sent c. Q. 11. What 's the first Instruction from hence A. That the enjoyments of the Scripture and an able faithful Ministry to expound and apply them is a special Mercy to any people Psal. 147.19 20. He sheweth his word unto Iacob his statutes and judgments unto Israel he hath not dealt so with any nation and as for his judgments they have not knows them Q. 12. What 's the second Instruction A. That men cannot expect Special and Spiritual Blessings from God in the wilful neglect of the Ordinances Prov. 28.9 He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law even his prayer shall be abomination Q. 13. What 's the third Inference A. That sad is their condition who sit all their dayes under the Word to no purpose at all 2 Cor. 4.3 4. If our gospel be hid it is hid to them that are lost In whom the God of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ who is the image of God should shine into them Q. 14. What 's the last Inference A. That Christs Ordinances and Ministers should be most welcome to the people to whom God sends them Isa. 52.7 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings that publisheth peace that publisheth salvation that saith unto Zion thy God reigneth Of the manner of Hearing Quest. 90. HOw is the Word to be read and heard that it may become effectual to Salvation A. That the Word may become effectual to Salvation we must attend thereunto with Diligence Preparation and Prayer receive it with Faith and Love lay it up in our Hearts and practise it in our Lives Q. 1. If the matter we read or hear be good is not that enough for our salvation A. No God requires that the Word be read and heard in a due manner and the manner of hearing is of special regard with God Luke 8.18 Take â—eed therefore how ye hear c. Q. 2. How many things belong to the due manner of hearing A. Three sorts of Duties belong to it some antecedent as preparation
and prayer some concomitant as due diligence and retention and some subsequent as practise Q. 3. What is due preparation â—or hearing A. It consists in serious consideration of the greatness and holiness of that God whom we approach in hearing the Word Acts 10.33 Now therefore we are all here present before God to hear all things that are commanded thee of God And awing the heart even to a degree of holy trembling thereby Isa. 66.2 To him will I look even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit and trembleth at my word Q. 4. What 's the principal consideration thus to awe the heart A. The Word is in its own nature an heart-searching Word Heb. 4.12 For the word of God is quick and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit and of the joynts and marrow and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart And that eventually 't will be the savour of Life or Death to us 2 Cor. 2.16 To the one we are the savour of death unto death and to the other the savour of life unto life c. Q. 5. What else belongs to due preparation to hear A. The discharging of the heart from worldly cares Matth. 13.7 And some fell among thorns and the thorns sprang up and choaked them And carnal lusts Iam. 1.21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness and receive with meekness the engraffed word which is able to save your souls Q. 6. What 's the third act of due preparation A. Longing after the Word for further communications of Grace by it 1 Pet. 2.2 As new born babes desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby Isa. 2.3 And many people shall go and say come ye and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord to the house of the God of Iacob and he will teach us of his wayes and we will walk in his paths for out of Zion shall go forth the law and the word of the Lord from Ierusalem Q. 7. What 's the second antecedent duty of hearing A. Prayer is an antecedent duty to hearing the Word and that both for the assistance of the Minister 2 Thess. 3.1 Finally brethren pray for us that the word of the Lord may have free course and be glorified even as it is with you And our own illumination Psal. 119.18 Open thou mine eyes that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law Q. 8. What else should we pray for A. That God would pour out his Spirit with the Word according to that promise Prov. 1.23 I will pour out my spirit unto you I will make known my words unto you Q. 9. Doth unpreparedness for the Word alwayes hinder its efficacy on the heart A. No God sometimes is found of them that sought him not Isa. 65.1 I was found of them that sought me not c. But it is a sin to neglect it and needs a pardon of God Q. 10. What 's the first motive to prepare for solemn duties A. That it argues the sincerity of the heart and in that case God will be merciful to infirmities 2 Chron. 30.18 19. For a multitude of the people even a multitude of Ephraim and Manasseth Issachar and Zebuluâ— had not cleansed themselves yet did eat the passover but not as it is written Wherefore Hezekiah prayed for them saying the good Lord be merciful towards him that prepareth his whole heart to seek the Lord God the God of his fathers though he be not cleansed according to the purification of the sanctuary Q. 11. What 's the second motive A. 'T is a sweet sign that God will make that duty successful for which the heart is prepared Psal. 10.17 Thou preparest their heart thou bendest thine ear to them Q. 12. What 's the third motive to preparation A. The majesty and jealousie of God to whom we approach obliges us to solemn preparation Heb. 12.28 29. Whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear for our God is a consuming fire Q. 13. But must a man neglect the duty if his heart be not duly prepared for it A. No for that would be to add a new sin to a former and aggravate it the more Q. 14. In what manner must the prepared heart go to the word A. Not in dependance on its own preparations but upon the Spirits assistance Psal. 71.16 I will go forward in the strength of the Lord God c. Q. 15. What 's the first act of Faith due to the Word A. The assenting act of Faith is required to the Word read or preached whereby we acknowledge it to be of Divine Authority 2 Tim. 3.16 And without controversie great is the mistery of godliness God was manifest in the flesh justified in the spirit seen of angels preached unto the Gentiles believed on in the world received up into glory 2 Pet. 1.21 For the prophesie came not in old time by the will of man but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost Q. 16. What 's the second act of Faith required of us A. An applying act of Faith is also required of us Rom. 15.4 For whatsoever things were written afore-time were written for our learning that we through patience and comâ—ort of the scriptures might have hope Q. 17. What 's the first end in applying the Word A. It is first to be applyed to our conviction both of sin and misery Acts 2.37 Now when they heard this they were pricked in their heart and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles men and brethren what shall we do Q. 18. What 's the second end or use of applying it A. It must be applyed for our guidance and direction to Christ Iohn 6.4 5. Every man therefore that hath heard and hath learned of the father cometh unto me Q. 19. What 's the third use to which it must be applyed A. We must apply it for our direction through the whole course of Christian Duties 2 Pet. 1.19 We have also a more sure word of prophesie whereunto ye do well that ye take heed as unto a light that shineth in a dark place until the day dawn and the day star arise in your hearts Q. 20. What other use must we apply it to A. It must be applyed for our comfort in all inward and outward troubles Rom. 15.4 For whatsoever things were written afore time were written for our learning that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope Q. 21. On what account are we to receive it with love A. We are to love it for its Authors sake because it 's the Word of God Psalm 119.159 Consider how I love thy precepts c. Q. 22. What 's the second motive of love to the Word A. The holiness and purity of it deserves and engages our love to it Psal. 119.140 Thy word is very pure therefore thy
servant loveth it Q. 23. What 's the third motive to engage our love to it A. The great and constant usefulness of it to our Souls as that we cannot subsist without Iob 23.12 I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food Q. 24. How doth this love to the Word manifest it self A. Our love manifests it self in our longing after it Psal. 119.20 My soul breaketh for the longing that it hath unto thy judgments at all times Our diligent attendance on it Acts 10.33 Immediately therefore I sent unto thee and thou hast well done that thou art come Now therefore are we all here present before God to hear all things that are commanded thee of God Q. 25. How is Faith and Love evidenced to the Word after hearing it A. By preserving it carefully in our hearts and memories Psal. 119.11 Thy word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee Q. 26. What 's the best cure for a bad memory A. Labour to get an high esteem of it and an experimental feeling of it and frequently meditate on it Psal. 119.16 I will delight my self in thy statutes I will not forget thy word Psal. 119.93 I will never forget thy precepts for with them thou hast quickened me Psal. 119.99 Thy testimonies are my meditation Q. 26. How is Faith and Love principally manifested to the word after hearing A. 'T is principally manifested by bringing forth the fruits of it in our lives Col. 1.5 6. For the hope which is laid up for you in heaven whereof ye heard before in the word of the truth of the gospel which is come unto you as it is in all the world and bringeth forth fruit as it doth also in you since the day ye bear a of it and knew the grace of God in truth Q. 28. What 's the use of all this A. This serves to reprove our formal and dead hearing the Word and excites us all to evidence and exercise more Faith Love and Obedience in hearing it Of Sacraments as means of Salvation Quest. 91. HOw do the Sacraments become effectual means of Salvation A. The Sacraments become effectual means of Salvation not from any vertue in them or in him that doth administer them but only by the blessing of Christ and the working of his Spirit in them that by Faith receive them Q. 1. What 's the first proper sense of this word Sacrament A. It primarily signifies a solemn Oath taken by Souldiers when they List themselves under a Prince or General and this Oath was mutual Q. 2. Why do we use it seeing it is not a Scripture word A. Though the Word be not found in Scripture yet the thing intended by it is and that brings the word in use for in the Sacraments God obliges himself to us by confirming his Covenant by it Rom. 4.11 And he received the sign of circumcision a seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had yet being uncircumcised that he might be the father of all them that believe though they be not circumcised that righteousness might be imputed unto them also And we oblige our selves to God Rom. 6.3 4. Know ye not that so many of us as were baptized into Christ were baptized into his death Thereforâ— we are buried with him in baptism into death that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father even so we also should walk in newness of life Q. 3. What is here meant by Salvation A. By Salvation is meant our compleat and final deliverance from sin and misery both temporal and eternal From sin Matth. 1.21 For he shall save his people from their sins From misery 1 Thess. 1.10 Even Iesus which delivereth us from the wrath to come Q. 4. What is a mean of Salvation A. A mean of Salvation signifies any appointment of God whereby he promotes and accomplishes his design of saving our Souls so the word is a mean Rom. 1.16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth Q. 5. How doth the Word and Sacraments differ as means of Salvation A. The Word is appointed to be the first means of begeting Faith 1 Cor. 3.5 Who then is Paul or who is Apollo but ministers by whom ye believed c. Sacraments are to seal and confirm it Rom. 4.11 And he received the sign of circumcision a seal of the righteousness of faith c. Q. 6. What is meant by an effectual mean of Salvation A. By an effectual mean is meant such a mean as fully obtains and accomplishes the end it was appointed for 1 Thess. 2.13 Because when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us ye received it not as the word of men but as it is in truth the word of God which effectually worketh also in you that believe Q. 7. Don't all the means of Salvation prove effectual to men A. Though the means of Salvation prove effectual to all Gods Elect yet they are so to no others Acts 28.23 24. And when they had appointed him a day there came many to him into his lodging to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God perswading them concerning Iesus both out of the law of Moses and out of the prophets from morning till evening And some believed the things which were spoken and some believed not Q. 8. Do not the Sacraments save all that partake of them A. No they do not Baptism may pass on a cast-away Acts 8.23 For I perceive that thou art in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity And the Lords Supper may be received unworthily 1 Cor. 11.27 Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread and drink this cup of the Lord unworthily shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. Q. 9. What 's the reason they prove not effectual to all A. Because their vertue and efficacy is not in themselves but in God for we see they work as Gods Spirit concurs or not concurs with them as in the instance before given Q. 10. But is not that for want of wisdom holiness or zeal in the Minister that they have no more efficacy A. No it is not principally or only from thence for it 's not in the power of the holiest Minister in the World to make them effectual 1 Cor. 3.7 Neither is he that planteth any thing neither he that watereth but God that giveth the increase Q. 11. Whence is it that Sacraments become effectual A. 'T is only from the Spirit of Christ working in them and by them on the souls of men 1 Cor. 12.13 For by one spirit are we all baptized into one body and have been all made to drink into one spirit Q. 12. What 's the first Instruction hence A. That men enjoying all the Ordinances of the Gospel and partaking of the Sacraments annexed to the Covenant of Grace may yet perish
must be performed in the heart of a Child of God by the Spirit of Adoption Gal. 4.6 And because ye are sons God hath sent forth the spirit of his Son in our hearts crying Abba Father Rom. 8.26 Likewise the spirit also helpeth our infirmities for we know not what we should pray for as we ought but the spirit it self maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered Q. 7. What 's the third qualification of an acceptable Prayer respecting the manner A. It must be servent and importunate not cold and formal Iam. 5.16 The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much Matth. 7.7 Ask and it shall be given you seek and ye shall find knock and it shall be opened unto you Q. 8. Wherein doth true importunity with God in Prayer consist A. Not in the multitude of words Matth. 6.7 But when ye pray use not vain repetitions as the heathen do for they think they shall be heard for their much speaking But in an holy earnestness of Spirit to be heard Psal 143.7 Hear me speedily O Lord my spirit faileth hide not thy face from me lest I be like unto them that go down into the pit A prudent choice of prevalent Arguments Iob 23.4 I would order my cause before him and fill my mouth with arguments And a resolute persistance in our requests till they be granted Isa. 62.7 And give him no rest till he establish and till he make Ierusalem a praise in the earth Q. 9. Do not Prayers thus qualified sometimes miscarry A. God may delay and suspend the answer of them for a time Psal. 22. 2. O my God I cry in the day time but thou hearâ—â— not c. But sooner or latter God will alwayes answer them either in the very thing we ask 1 Iohn 5.15 We know that we have the petitions that we desired of him Or in that which is equivalent or better Gen. 17.18 19. And Abraham said unto God O that Ishmael might live before thee And God said Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed and thou shalt-call his name Isaac and I will establish my covenant with him for an everlasting covenant and with his seed after him Q. 10. Is there no Prayer but what is stated and fixed A. Yes there is sudden occasional Prayer which we call ejaculatory Such was Iacobs Gen. 49.18 I have waited for thy salvation O Lord. And this is exceeding useful to maintain constant communion with God and keep the heart in a spiritual frame Q. 11. Is all stated and fixed Prayer publick in the Congregation or Church A. No stated Prayer ought to be in our Families with those under our charge and in our Closets betwixt God and us alone Iosh. 24.15 But as for me and my house we will serve the Lord. And Matth. 6.6 But when thou prayest enter into thy closet and when thou hast shut thy door pray to thy father which is in secret and thy father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly Q. 12. What infer you from hence A. The restraint of Prayer is not only a great fin but an ill sign of a graceless heart Iob 15.4 Yea thou castest off fear and restrainest prayer before God And that which entails a judgment and curse upon men and their Families Ier. 10.25 Pour out thy fury upon the heathen that know thee not and upon the families that call not upon â—hy name Q. 13. What 's the second Inference from the Ordinance of Prayer A. That the true reason why we enjoy not the Mercies we pray for is not because God is unwilling to grant Mercies but because we either neglect Prayer or miscarry in the manner of Prayer Jam. 4.2 3 Ye lust and have not ye kill and desire to have and cannot obtain ye fight and war yet ye have not because yâ— ask not Ye ask and receive not because ye ask amiss that ye may consume it upon your lusts Of Direction in Prayer Quest. 99. WHat Rule hath God given for our dirâ—ction in the Duty of Prayer A. The whole Word of God is of use to direct us 〈◊〉 Prayer but the special Rule of Direction is that form of Prayer which Christ taught his Disciples commonly called the Lords-Prayer Q. 1. Do men need directions rules and helps in Prayer A. They do greatly need them for in â—nd of our selves we know not what to pray for as we ought Rom. 8.26 Likewise the spirit also helpeth our infirmities for we know not what we shall pray for as we ought c. Nor how to pray in a right manner and for right ends and a mistake in either frustrates our Prayer Jam. 4.3 Ye ask and receive not because ye ask amiss that ye may consume it upon your lusts Q. 2. When do men mistake in the matter of their Prayer A. They mistake in the matter of Prayer when they ask of God things that are not lâ—wful good and agreeable to his Will So the Disciples were ready to do in calling for fire from Heaven on the Samaritanes Luke 9.54 55. And when his disciples James and John saw this they said Lord wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven and consume them even as Elias did But he turned and rebuked them and said ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of Q. 3. When do men mistake in the manner of Prayer A. They mistake in the manner when they ask Mercies of God for carnal ends to satisfie their lusts Jam. 4.3 Ye ask and receive not because ye ask amiss that ye may consume it upon your lusts Or in a drowsie and careless manner Isa. 64.7 And there is none that calleth upon thy name that stirreth up himself to take hold of thee c. Q. 4. What helps hath God afforded us to furnish us to Prayer both in respect of the matter and manner A. The Scriptures abudantly furnish us with all sorts of helps and directions for the matter of Prayer It directs us both in coâ—fession of sins original and actual Psal. 51.4 5. Behold I was shapen in iniquity and in sin did my mother conceive me Against thee thee only have I sinned and done this evil in thy sight c. Petition and Thanksgiving Phil. 4.6 Be careful for nothing but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be made known unto God Q. 5. Doth it afford us any help or direction as to the manner of Prayer also A. Yes it doth and that both as to 1. our sincerity in Pâ—ayer 〈◊〉 10.22 Let us draw near with a traâ— heart in full assurance of faith having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience all our bodies washed pure water 2. As to our humility in Prayer Psal. 10.17 Lord thou hast heard the desire of the humble thou wilt prepare their heart thou wilt cause thine ear to hear 3. As to our faith in Prayer Jam. 1.6 But let him ask in faith nothing
wavering c. 4. As to our fervency in Prayer Jam. 5.16 The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much Q. 6. Are these external rules and directions sufficient in themselves to enable us to pray acceptably A. In respect of external direction they are sufficient and we need no other outward rules than what the Scriptures furnish but besides that the internal helps and assistances of the Spirit are necessary to the offering up acceptable Prayer Rom. 8.26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities for we know not what we should pray for as we ought but the Spirit it self maketh intercession for us c. Q. 7. But doth the Scripture only furnish us with general rules of direction for Prayer A. No it furnishes us also with an excellent pattern and example of Prayer composed by Christ for our direction Mattâ— 6.9 After this manner therefore pray ye Our Father which art iâ— heaven c. Q. 8. Are Christians tyed by a necessity to use that form of words or was it only intended for a directory to them A. That form of words may be lawfully used but it 's plain its intention was to regulate our Petitions by it and thereforâ— they that use it in spells and charms as the Papists or thoâ— that think nothing is Prayer but that form of words 〈◊〉 Christs intention in it Q. 9. How doth it appear it was not Christs intention strictly 〈◊〉 â—ind us to that very form of words in our Prayers A. Divines give us these reasons against it 1. Because thiâ— Prayer is set down diversly by the Evangelist Matth 6. 1â—â— 12. Thy kingdom come thy will be done in earth as it is in heavenâ—â— And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors And Luke 11.3 4. Give us day by day our daily bread and forgive us 〈◊〉 sins for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us and lead 〈◊〉 not into temptation but deliver us from evil 2. Christ and 〈◊〉 Apostles did not alwayes use this form of words afterwards as appears by his Prayer at Lazarus his grave John 11. and that for his Apostles John 17. 3. Because these words Matth. 6.9 After this manner c. plainly shew its use wa◠〈◊〉 tended for a directory to us Q. 10 What 's the first Inference from hence A. Hence we learn the fulness and compleatness of the Scriâ—â—tures not only for the guiding and setling of our Faith in things that are to be believed but also of our whole practice in every Duty we are to perform Q. 11. What 's the second Inference hence A. Hence we are informed how necessary it is to acquaint our selves with the mind of God revealed in his Word that we may guide our selves in Prayer both for matter and manner thereby and not utter to God words without knowledge Q. 12. What 's the last Inference from hence A. That those who neglect all Prayer and those that satisfie themselves with a form of Prayer which they utter without knowledge or affection do greatly sin against God And that it is the duty of all Christians from a sense of their own sins wants and mercies to be often with God in prayer guiding themselves in that spiritual duty by such inward and outward helps as his word and spirit are able to furnish them with Of the Preface to the Lords Prayer Quest. 100. WHat doth the Preface of the Lords Prayer teach us A. The Preface of the Lords Prayer which is our Father which art in Heaven teacheth us to draw near to God with all holy reverence and confidence as Children to a Father ready to help us and that we should pray with and for others Q. 1. What doth the word Father import in this Preface A. It imports the Spirit of Adoption to be the principle of all acceptable prayers Gal. 4.6 And because ye are sons God hath given forth the spirit of his son into our hearts crying Abba Father Q. 2. What 's the first benefit or heâ—p we have in Prayer from the Spirit of Adoption A. He excites our Spirits to seek God in prayer Psal. 27.8 when thou saidest seek ye my face my heart said unto thee thy face Lord will I seek Q. 3. What 's the second Assistance he gives us in prayer A. He indites and suggests sutable and acceptable matter to us in prayer Rom. 8.26 Likewise the spirit also helpeth our infirmities for we know not what we should pray for as we ought but the spirit it self maketh intercession for us c. Q. 4. What 's the third Benefit we have by him in prayer A. He fills our Souls with spiritual and Holy affections in prayer and helps us to act his Graces in our Duties Rom. 8.26 Likewise the spirit also helpeth our infirmities for we know not what we should ask as we ought but the spirit it self maketh intercession â—or us with groanings which cannot be uttered Q. 5. What else doth this word Father import A. It imports that Holy confidence which Believers may and ought to draw near to God with all as Children to a Father Eph. 3.12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him Q. 6. Doth it only Signify our relation and Confidence A. No it also signifies the reverential fear of God which ought at all times to be on our hearts especially in Prayer Mal. 1.6 A son honoureth his father and a servant his master If then I be a Father where is my honour and if I be a Master where is my fear Q. 7. What is further imported in this word Father A. It imports Gods willingness and readiness to grant the best Mercies to his people that seek them duly at his hand Matth. 7.11 If ye then being evil know how to give good gifts unto your children how much more shall your father which is in Heaven give good things to them that ask him Q. 8. Why is he here called our Father A. To signify to us that it is not only our duty to pray secretly by and for our selves but also with and for others Eph. 6.18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all Saints Q. Why is God said here to be in Heaven A. It is to note his Soveraign power and dominion over all as a ground-work of faith in prayer Q. 9.10 What else doth it import A. The great distance between God and us which should fill our hearts with an holy awe of him Eccles. 5.2 God is in Heaven and thou upon Earth therefore let thy words be few Q. 11. What 's the first Inference from hence A. It shews us what a sad case all those are in that have no special interest in God as a Father Q. 12. What 's the second Inference A. It shews us what a glorious Priviledge the Lord Jesus Christ hath purchased for and setled on his people Heb. 4.15 16. For we