openly acknowledg'd by Christ shall be for ever with the Lord 1 Thess 4.17 The Sixth Lesson About the Law and the Gospel Question 1. HOW shall we know the whole Will of God that we may do it Answer Hos 8.12 Isa 8.20 Eph. 2.20 1 Tim. 4.7 Tit. 1.14 Gal. 6.16 2 Tim. 3.15.17 The whole Will of God is reveal'd in his written Word containing all the Books of the Old and New Testament the Apocrypha being to be rejected as profane Old Wives Fables which turn from the Truth This Word is the perfect Rule or Canon which is able to make even a Child wise unto Salvation through Faith which is in Jesus Christ Question 2. Why are the Scriptures call'd the Old and the New Testament Answer The Scriptures are call'd the Old and New Testament Isa 8.20 as they testifie of the whole Will of God both under the first Testament Heb. 8.6 to 13. or Church-Covenant before Christ came in the Flesh and since under the Second Testament or Church-Covenant enlarg'd and renew'd by Christ wherein 1st Col. 2.14 All the outward Levitical Ceremonies in the first Church-Covenant are taken away 2dly Rom. 15.8 Yet all their Spiritual Priviledges in that Covenant are confirm'd to us and our Seed 3dly 2 Cor. 3.7 11. And glorious Additions are made of Gospel-Grace to the Church Question 3. How shall we know the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament to be the Word of God Answer Mat. 16.17 John 16.3 1 John 2.20 ch 5.6 Luke 24.32 1 Cor. 2.14 2 Pet. 1.19.21 The Scriptures of the Old and New Testament are only known aright to be the Word of God by the witnessing of the Spirit of God in the Heart to the Testimony which they give of their heavenly Majesty and undoubted Divinity Question 4. How shall we come to understand the Mind of God in his Word Answer 1 Tim. 4.13.15 Acts 37.11 John 5.39 Ps 119.9 18. Eph. 1.17 18. 1 Cor. 2.12 13. We shall come to a right Understanding of the Mind of God in his Word by diligent reading hearing searching and meditating therein with constant Prayer to God for Wisdom comparing Scripture with Scripture by the help of the Holy Spirit Question 5. But will not the Learning of Men help to understand the Word of God Answer A knowledge of the Hebrew and the Greek Tongues in which the Scriptures were first written may be of use to understand the Letter of them Col. 2.8 1 Cor. 8.1 2. ch 1.19 21. ch 2.4 10 11. Luke 24.45 but Philosophy and other Learning puffs up and leads from a dependance on the Spirit who only can open our Understanding in the Scriptures Question 6. What are the chief Parts of the Word of God Answer Isa 8.20 with 1 Cor. 2.1 Luke 24.27 with Act. 10.43 Gal. 3.8 10. Psal 119.96 The whole Word of God may be divided into Law and Gospel both which are to be found both in the Old Testament and in the New the Historical and every other part of the Word referring and having a respect some way or other either to Law or Gospel Question 7. What is the Law Answer Psal 119.96 1 Tim. 1.8 9 10. Gal. 3.10 Exod. 20. all Mat. 5 6 and 7 chap. The Law consists of all the Commands and Threatnings in all the Bible not only in the Old Testament but in the New also all which are briefly summ'd up in the Ten Commandments given by Moses and explained by Christ his Apostles and Prophets Question 8. What is the Summ of the Ten Commandments Answer Eccles 12.13 Deut. 10.12 13. with Mat. 22.37 38 39 40. Rom. 13.10 The Ten Commandments briefly summ up our Duty to God and Man all which are contained in these Words of our Saviour Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy Heart and with all thy Soul and with all thy Mind and with all thy Strength and thou shalt love thy Neighbour as thy self for Love is the fulfilling of the Law Question 9. How shall we aright understand the Ten Commandments Answer By knowing these three Things we may come to a good Understanding of the Commands 1st Psal 119.128 Deut. 6.13 with Lev. 26.1 That every Command for Duty forbids the contrary Sin and every Command which forbids Sin obliges to the contrary Duty 2. Rom. 7.5 7 8 14. Mat. 5.21 22 27 28. Prov. 24.9 Gen. 6.5 2 Cor. 10.5 By knowing that every Command reacheth the very Heart not only forbidding the outward Sin and commanding outward Obedience but even the Thoughts and Motions of Sin within us are forbidden and the Obedience of the Heart is required therein 3. 1 John 3.4 James 2.10 Mat. 23.23 By considering that any Transgression of the Law or the least want of whatsoever the Law requires is Sin Question 10. Can any Man obey the Commandments perfectly Answer Mat. 19 20. Rom. 7.9 10 11. Those that think the Law forbids only outward Sins and know not the Spirituality of it they think that they can perform all Jer. 4.14 Prov. 23.16 Rom. 3.10 20. Eccl. 7.20 but such as feel that the Command reacheth the very Heart forbidding every sinful Thought and commanding us even in our Spirit to fear God they know and are sure that no meer Man can perfectly keep the Law Question 11. Why then were the Commands given by Moses if no Man can perfectly obey them Answer Moses did not give the Law as a Covenant of Works that we should obey it for Life Gal. 3.24 but as a Schoolmaster for Three Ends 1st To shew us our miserable State by Nature Rom. 3.9 19. chap. 7.8 that we are all Sinners against the holy Law of God 2. To make us despair of Salvation in our selves Rom. 3.19 20. chap. 5.20 and to fly to Christ for help 3. The Law was given as a Rule of Life Psal 119.45 1â—5 133. to order all our Conversation by at all times And this is the only right Use of the Law 1 Tim. 1.8 Question 12. What is the Gospel Answer Luke 2.10 11. Acts 20.24 Rom. 10.15 with Isa 52.7 Acts 13.23 39. chap. 3.18 The Gospel is the Glad Tidings of Salvation by Jesus Christ containing all the free Promises and Invitations of Grace whether in the Old Testament or in the New Question 13. But are not Faith Repentance and Love the Commands of the Gospel Answer Acts 20.24 1 Tim. 1.5 10. Psal 19.7 8 9. Mat. 22.37 40. Mark 1.15 Gal. 3.24 The Gospel strictly taken for Glad Tidings of Salvation by Jesus Christ hath no Commands Faith Repentance Love and all Duties whatsoever being commanded by the Law yet in preaching the Gospel these Commands must be urg'd to lead to Christ Question 14. But is not the Gospel a new Law offering Salvation on the easier Terms of our sincere Obedience Answer Mat. 5.17 18 19 20. Luke 16.17 Phil. 3.9 Gal. 2.16 21. It
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
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
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
Duty of glorifying God in his Churches which hereafter if God will may be more fully Explain'd This great Duty all Christians should covet to understand since in the Church only can they give most Glory to Christ and partake most of his Glory in this Life And thro' these Gates of Heaven upright Souls have an abundant Entrance administred to them into the Eternal Joy of their Lord and Master with a brief Account whereof the Catechism concludes The Former Part of the Catechism contains those Truths that are more generally receiv'd which are given in shorter Lessons and shorter Answers as Milk for Babes By the good Digestion of which the Capacity will be enlarg'd to receive the Truths that follow which are contain'd in larger Lessons and longer Answers that the Truth might be kept in an intire Proposition and not mangled by many Questions and for this there was a more special Necessity in the instruction about glorifying God in his Churches Which is the strong meat belonging to them that are of more full age who by reason of Use have their Sences exercis'd to discern both good and evil Upon this strong meat the spiritual man will heartily feed for only Babes and carnal feed altogether upon Milk The First Lesson Of GOD. Question 1. WHAT are You Answer By Nature I am a poor lost Sinner against God Rom. 3.9 10 20. Eph. 2.1.3.12 Question 2. What is God Answer GOD is the Eternal John 4.24 Rom. 1.20 Isa 44.24 Dan. 4.35 1 Tim. 6.16 Almighty Spirit who made All things by His Power and orders All things by his Providence whom no Man hath seen or can see Question 3. How then shall we know God Answer Rom. 1.19 20. Psal 19. all Psal 138.2 GOD is known partly by Conscience within us and by his Works without us But more fully by his Written Word Question 4. How shall we know God by Conscience within us Answer GOD hath shown all Men somewhat of Himself by Natural Reason Rom. 2.14 15. Prov. 20.27 Rom. 1.21 and Conscience within them witnessing tho' darkly that there is a Just and Holy God Question 5. How do the Works of God make him known Answer Psalm 8. all Jer. 10.12 Acts 14.17 Rom. 1.20 The Heavens the Earth the Seas and all things therein shew forth the Power Wisdom and Goodness of GOD the Maker of all so that All are without Excuse Question 6. How doth the Written Word reveal God more clearly Answer 1 John 5.7 Isa 43.10 11. 1 Thess 1.9 Psal 83.18 Psal 96.5 1 Cor. 8.4.6 The Written Word of God reveals That there are Three in Heaven the Father the Son and the Holy Spirit and these Three are One Living and True GOD whose Name alone is JEHOVAH and all other Gods are Idols Question 7. How can it be that there are Three Persons in the Godhead and yet but ONE God Answer Joh 11.7 8.9.36.26.37.19 23 24. Prov. 30.4 5. 'T is impossible for any Man to comprehend the unsearchable Mystery of the Trinity in Unity or Three Persons in the Godhead We should therefore readily believe whatsoever GOD reveals of Himself in His Word since none in all his Creation can find him out to Perfection 2 Chro. 20.20 The Second Lesson About the Decrees and Creation Question 1. WHY did God create all things Answer GOD the Father Son Isa 57.15 1 Tim. 6.16 Col. 1.16 Rev. 4.11 and Holy Spirit Blessed and Happy in the Enjoyment of Himself from all Eternity Decreed to Create all things to show forth his Glory in Christ Jesus Question 2. What are God's Eternal Decrees Answer Acts 15.18.17.26 Isa 14.24.46.10 GOD's Eternal Decrees are his Purpose and his Counsel in himself before any thing was fore-ordaining all Persons and Things that ever should be Question 3. When did Ged make all things Answer Gen. 1.1.9 10 31. In 〈◊〉 beginning God created the Heaven the Earth the Seas and all things therein in Six Days Question 4. Of what did God make all things Answer Job 26.7 Heb. 11.3 GOD made things of Nothing so that the things which are seen were not made of things which do appear Question 5. How did God create all things Answer John 1.3 Heb. 1.2 10. Col. 1.16 GOD created all things by his Son Jesus Christ whom he appointed Lord and Heir of all Question 6. In what State did God make all things Answer Gen. 1.27.31 Eccl. 7.29 GOD made Angels and Man and all things very good Question 7. What are Angels Answer Heb. 1.7.14 Psal 103.20.104.4 Angles are Ministring Spirits mighty in Strength to wait about the Throne of GOD and to do all his Commands Question 8. What Creature is Man Answer GOD form'd Man of the Dust of the ground Gen. 2.7 Matth. 10.28 Gen. 1.27 Eccl. 7.29 Gen. 3.20 and gave him an immortal Soul so God created Man in his own Image upright Male and Female Created he them and they were call'd Adam and Eve Question 9. What did God do with Man when he made him Answer The Lord God took Man and put him into the Garden of Eden Gen. 2.8.16 17 and gave him a Law * Note 'T was a Law given to Man not a Covenant of Works made with Man forbidding him to eat of the Tree of Knowledge for in the day he eat thereof he should surely die The Third Lesson About the Fall and the Fruits of it Question 1. HOW long did Man continue Upright Answer Man that was in Honour Ps 49.12 Heb. Gen. 3.6 Eccl. 7.29 abode not for a Night but by sinning against God fell from his Innocency and Uprightness Question 2 How came Man to fall by Sin Answer Man being left to the Freedom of his own Will Ge. 3.6 7 8 13 fell into Sin thro' the Temptation of that old Serpent John 8.44 the Devil in transgressing the Law giv'n him by God Question 3. What Creature is the Devil Answer Job 4.18 2 Pet. 2.4 Jude 6. 1 Tim. 3.6 1 Pet. 5.8 The Devil was once an Angel of Light but rebelling against GOD and drawing other Angels with him they were all condemn'd into Hell for their Pride and now these Devils go about as roaring Lions seeking whom they may devour Question 4. What was that Sin by which the Devil tempted Man to fall from God Answer The Devil in the Serpent tempted the Woman to eat of the forbidden fruit Gen. 3.1 to 7. 1 Tim. 2.14 2 Cor. 11.3 and She being first deceiv'd tempted her Husband to eat with her by which they both fell from God Question 5. What follow'd Man's falling from God Answer Gen. 2.17.3.16.19 Rom. 5.12.8.22 Adam and Eve falling from GOD receiv'd the Sentence of Death that is dreadful Misery to themselves to their Posterity and to all the Creation subjected to them Question 6. What special Misery came on Adam and Eve by the Pall Answer Assoon as Adam and Eve fell they
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