(l) 2 Cor. 7. 11. For behold this self same thing that ye sorrowed after a godly sort what carefulness it wrought in you yea what clearing of your selves yea what indignation yea what fear yea what vehement desire yea what zeal yea what revenge in all things you have approved your selves to be clear in this matter Isa 1. 16. Wash ye make ye clean put away the evil of your doings before mine eyes cease to do evil V. 17. Learn to do well seek judgment relieve the oppressed judg the fatherless plead for the widow Q. What are the outward means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of Redemption A. The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of Redemption are his Ordinances especially the Word Sacraments and Prayer all which are made effectual to the Elect for salvation (m) Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore teach all nations baptizing them in â—he Name of the father and of the son and of the holy Ghost V. 20. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you and low I am with you alway even unto the end of the world Amen Acts 2. 42 -46 47. And they continued stedfastly in the Apostles Doctrine and fellowship and in breaking of bread and in prayers V. 46. And they continuing daily with one accord in the Temple and breaking bread from house to house did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart V. 47. Praising God and having favour with all the people And the Lord added to the Church daily such as should be saved Q. 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 of building them up in holiness and comfort through faith unto salvation (n) Neh. 8. 8. So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly and gave the sense and caused them to understand the reading 1 Cor. 14 24. 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 V. 25. And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest and so falling down on his face he will worship God and report that God is in you of a truth 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 and inheritance among them which are sanctifiâ—d by faith â—hat is in me Psal 19. 8. The statutes of the Lord are right rejoycing the heart the commandment of the Lord is pure enlightning the eyes 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 to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified 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 2 Tim. 3. 15. And that from a child thou hast known the holy Scriptures which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus V. 16. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine for reproof for correction c. V. 17. That the man of God may be perfect throughly furnished unto good works Rom. 10. 14. 15. ver 14. How shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard and how shall they hear without a preacher ver 15. and how shall they preach except they be sent c. and 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 to the Iew first and also to the Greek Q. 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 (o) Pro. 8. 34. Blessed is the man that heareth me watching daily at my gates waiting at the posts of my doors preparation (p) 1 Pet. 2. 1. Wherefore laying aside all malice and all guile and hypocrisies and envies evil speakings V. 2. As new born babes desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby and prayer (q) Psal 119. 18. Open thou mine eyes that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law receive it with faith and love (r) Heb. 4. 2. For unto us was the Gospel preached as well as unto them but the word preached did not profit them not being mixt with faith in them that heard it 2 Thes 2. 10. With all deceiveableness of unrighteousness in them that perish because they received not the love of the truth that they might be saved lay it up in our hearts (Å¿) Psal 119. 11. Thy word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee and practise it in our lives (t) Luk. 8. 15. But that on the good ground are they which in an honest and good heart having heard the word keep it and bring forth fruit with patience Iam. 1. 25. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty and continueth therein he being not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the word this man shall be blessed in his dealing Q. How do the Sacraments become effectual means of salvation A. The Sacraments become effectual means of salvation not from any virtue in them or in him that doth administer them but only by the blessing of Christ (u) 1 Pet. 3. 22. The like figure whereunto even Baptisme doth also now save us not the putting away the filth of the flesh but the answer of a good conscience towards God by the resurrection of Jesus Christ Mat. 3. 11. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance but he that cometh after me is mightier then I whose shoes I am not worthy to bear he shall baptize you with the holy Ghost and with fire 1 Cor. 3. 6 7. I have planted Apollo watered but God gave the encrease V. 7. So then neither is he that planteth any thing neither he that watereth but God that giveth the encrease and the working of his Spirit in them that by faith receive them * 1 Cor. 12. 13. For by one spirit are we all baptized into one body whether we be Jews or Gentiles whether we be bond or free and have been made all to drink into one Spirit Q. What is a Sacrament A. A Sacrament is an holy Ordinance instituted by Christ wherein by sensible signs Christ and the benefits of the new Covenant are represented sealed and applied to believers (x) Gen. 17. 7. And I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting covenant to be a God unto thee and to
THE CONFESSION OF FAITH Together with The LARGER and LESSER Catechismes Composed by the Reverend ASSEMBLY OF DIVINES Sitting at WESTMINSTER Presented to both Houses of Parliament Again Published with the Scriptures at large and the Emphasis of the Scriptures in a different Character To which is annexed two sheets of Church-Government with the SCRIPTURES at large The second Edition Deut. 6. 6 7. And these words which I command thee this day shall be in thy heart and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children and shalt talk of them when thou fittest in thy house and when thou walkest by the way and when thou liest down and when thou risest up London Printed by E. M. for the Company of Stationers and are to be sold by John Rothwel at the Fountain in Cheapside 1658. The LARGER CATECHISM Agreed upon by the ASSEMBLY of DIVINES At VVESTMINSTER Quest WHat is the chief and highest end of man A. Mans Chief and Highest End is to glorifie God a Rom. 11. 36. For of him and through him and to him are all things to whom be glory for ever Amen 1 Cor. 10. 31. Whether therefore ye eat or drink or whatsoever ye do do all to the glory of God and fully to enjoy him for ever b Psal 73. 24. to the end Thou shalt guide me with thy counsels and afterwards receive me to glory Whom have I in heaven but thee and there is none on earth that I desire besides thee My flesh and my heart fail but God is the strength of my heart and my portion for ever For lo they that are far from thee shall perish thou shalt destroy all them that go a whoring from thee but it is good for me to draw nigh to God I have put my trust in the Lord God that I may declare all thy works John 17. 21 22 23. That they all may be one as thou Father art in me and I in thee that they also may be one in us that the world may believe that thou hast sent me and the glory which thou gavest me have I given them that they may be one even as we are one I in them and thou in me that they may be made perfect in one and that the world may know that thou hast sent me and hast loved them as thou hast loved me Quest How doth it appear that there is a God Ans The very light of Nature in man and the works of God declare that there is a God c Rom. 1. 19 20. Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them for God hath shewed it unto them For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen being understood by the things that are made even his eternal power and Godhead so that they are without excuse Psal 19. 1 2 3. The heavens declare the glory of God and the Firmament sheweth his handy-work Day unto day uttereth speech and night unto night sheweth Knowledge There is no speech nor language where their voice is not heard Acts 17. 28. For in him we live and move and have our being but his Word and Spirit only do sufficiently and effectually reveal him unto men for their salvation d 1 Cor. 3. 9 10. But as it is written Eye hath not seâ—n nor ear heard neither hath it entred into the heart of man the things that God hath prepared for them that love him But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit for the Spirit searcheth all things yea the deep things of God 2 Tim. 3. 15 16 17. And that from a child thou hast known the holy Scriptures which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus All Scripture is given by inspiration of God is profitable for doctrine for reproof for correction for instruction in righteousness that the man of God may be perfect throughly furnished unto all good works Isai 59. 21. As for me this is my Covenant with thee saith the Lord my Spirit which is upon thee my words which I have put into thy mouth shall not depart out of thy mouth nor out of the mouth of thy seed nor out of the mouth of thy Seeds seed saith the Lord from henceforth and for ever Q. What is the word of God A. The Holy Scriptures of the old and new Testament are the Word of God e 2 Tim. 3. 16. All Scripture is given by inspiration 2 Pet. 1. 19 20. We have also a more sure word of Prophecy whereunto ye do well that ye take heed as unto a light that shineth in a dark place untill the day dawn and the day-star arise in your hearts V. 20. Knowing this first that no prophecy of the Scripture is of any private interpretation V. 21. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost the only rule of Faith and Obedience f Eph. 2. 20. And are built upon the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone Rev. 22. 18 19. For I testifie unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book if any man shall adde unto these things God shall adde unto him the plagues that are written in this book V. 19. And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this Prophecy God shall take away his part out of the book of life and out of the holy city and from the things which are written in this book 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 Luke 16. 29 31. They have Moses and the Prophets let them hear them if they believe not Moses and the Prophets neither will they be perswaded though one rose from the dead Gal. 1. 8 9. But though we or angel from heaven preach any other Gospel unto you then that which we have preached unto you let him be accursed As we said before so say I now again if any man preach any other Gospel unto you then that ye have received let him be accursed 2 Tim. 3. 15 16. Before Q. How doth it appear that the Scriptures are the word of God A. The Scriptures manifest themselves to be the word of God by their Majesty g Hos 8. 12. I have written to them the great things of my law but they were counted as a strange thing 1 Cor. 2. 6 7 13. Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect yet not the wisdom of this World nor of the Princes of this World that come to nought but we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery even the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the world unto our glory Which things also we speak not in the words which mans wisdom teacheth but which the Holy Ghost teacheth
of grace and that they shall persevere therein unto salvation A. Such as truly believe in Christ and endeavour to walk in all good conscience before him n 1 Joh. 2. 3. And hereby we do know that we know him if we keep his commandments may without extraordinary revelation by faith grounded upon the truth of Gods promises and by the Spirit enabling them to discern in themselves those graces to which the promises of life are made o 1 Cor. 2. 12. Now we have received not the Spirit of the world but the Spirit which is of God that we might know the things that are freely given us of God 1 Joh. 3. 14-18 19-21-24 We know that we have passed from death unto life because we love the brethren he that loveth not his brother abideth in death V. 18. My little children let us not love in word nor in tongue but in deed and in truth V. 19. And hereby we know we are of the truth and shall assure our hearts before him V. 21. Beloved if our heart condemn us not then have we confidence towards God V. 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 1 Joh. 4. 13-16 Hereby we know that we dwell in him and he in us because he hath given us of his Spirit V. 16. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us God is love and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God and God in him Heb. 6. 11 12. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end V. 12. That ye be not slothful but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises and bearing witness with their Spirits that they are the children of God p Rom. 8. 16. The Spirit it self beareth witness with our Spirit that we are the children of God be infallibly assured that they are in the estate of grace and shall persevere therein unto salvation q 1 Joh. 5. 13. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God that ye may know that ye have eternal life and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God Q. Are all true believers at all times assured of their present being in the estate of grace and that they shall be saved A. Assurance of grace and salvation not being of the essence of faith r Eph. 1. 13. In whom ye also trusted after that ye heard the word of truth the Gospel of your salvation in whom also after that ye believed ye were sealed with the holy Spirit of promise true believers may wait long before they obtain it Å¿ 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 Lord and stay upon his God Psal 88. throughout O Lord God of my salvation I have cried day and night c. and after the enjoyment thereof may have it weakened and intermitted through manifold distempers sins temptations and desertions t Psal 77 1. to the 12. verse I cried unto thee with my voice c. Cant. 5. 2 3 -6 I sleep but my heart waketh it is the voice of my beloved that knocketh saying Open to me my sister my love my dove my undefiled for my head is filled with dew and my locks with the drops of the night V. 3. I have put off my coat how shall I put it on I have washed my feet how shall I defile them V. 8. I opened to my beloved but my beloved had withdrawn himself and was gone my soul failed when he spake I sought him but I could not find him I called him but he gave me no answer Psal 51. 8-12 Make me to hear joy and gladnesse that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoyce V. 12. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation and uphold me with thy free Spirit Psal 31. 22. For I said in my haste I am cut off from before thine eyes nevertheless thou heardst the voice of my supplications when I cried unto thee Psal 22. 1. My God my God why hast thou forsaken me why art thou so far from helping me and from the words of my roaring yet are they never left without such a presence and support of the Spirit of God as keeps them from sinking into utter despair u 1 Joh. 3. 9. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin for his seed remaineth in him and he cannot sin because he is born of God Job 13. 15. Though he slay me yet will I trust in him but I will maintain mine own wayes before him Psal 73. 15 -23 If I say I will speak thus behold I should offend against the generation of thy children V. 23. Nevertheless I am continually with thee thou hast holden me by thy right hand Isa 54. 7 8 9 10. For a small moment have I forsaken thee but with great mercies will I gather thee V. 8. In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee saith the Lord my Redeemer V. 9. For this is as the waters of Noah unto me for as I have sworn that the waters of Noah shall no more go over the earth so have I sworn that I would not be wroth with thee nor rebuke thee V. 10. For the mountaines shall depart and the hills shall be removed but my kindness shall not depart from thee neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee Q. What is the communion in Glory which the members of the Invisible Church have with Christ A. The communion in glory which the members of the Invisible Church have with Christ is in this life * 2 Cor. 3. 18. But we all with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord are changed into the same image from glory to glory even as by the Spirit of the Lord. immediately after death x Luk. 23. 43. And Jesus said unto him Verily I say unto thee To day shalt thou be with me in Paradise and at last perfected at the resurrection and day of Judgment y 1 Thess 4. 17. Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Q. What is the communion in Glory with Christ which the members of the Invisible Church enjoy in this life A. The members of the Invisible Church have communicated to them in this life the first fruits of glory with Christ as they are members of him their head and so in him are interested in that glory which he is fully
establish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God c. Rom. 15. 4. For whatsoever things were written afore-time were written for our learning that through patience and comfort of the Scriptures we might have hope Rom. 10 13 14 15 16 17. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved v. 14. How then shall they call on him on 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 v. 15. And how shall they preach except they be sent as it is written How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the Gospel of peace and bring glad tidings of good things v. 16. But they have not all obeyed the Gospell for Esaias saith Lord who hath believed our report v. 17. So then faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God 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 to the Jew first and also to the Greek Q. Is the word of God to be read by all A. Although all are not to be permitted to read the Word publickly to the Congregation (u) Deut. 31. 9 -11 12 13. And Moses wrote this Law and delivered it unto the Priests the sons of Levi which bare the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord and unto all the elders of Israel v. 11. When all Israel is come to appear before the Lord thy God in the place which he shall chuse thou shalt read this law before all Israel in their hearing v. 12. Gather the people together men and women and children and thy stranger that is within thy gates that they may hear and learn and fear the Lord your God and observe to do all the words of this law v. 13. And that their children which have not known any thing may hear and learn to fear the Lord your God as long as ye live in the land c. Neh. 8. 2 3. And Ezra the Priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women and all that could hear with understanding v. 3. And he read therein before the street that was before the water-gate from morning till noon before the men and women and those that could understand and the ears of all the people were attentive unto the book of the law Neh. 9. 3 4 5. And they stood up in their place and read in the book of the law of the Lord their God one fourth part of the day and another fourth part they confessed and worshipped the Lord their God v. 4. Then stood up upon the stairs of the Levites Jeshua and Bani c. and cryed with a loud voice unto the Lord their God v. 5. Then the Levites Jeshua and Kâ—dmiâ—l c. said stand up and bless the Lord your God c. yet all sorts of people are bound to read it apart by themselves (*) 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 Rev. 1. 3. Blessed is he that readeth and they that hear the words of this Prophecy and keep those things which are written therein for the time is at hand Joh. 5. 39. Search the Scriptures for in them ye think ye have eternal life and they are they which testifie of me Isa 34. 16 Seek ye out of the book of the Lord and read no one of these shall fail c. and with their families (x) Deut. 6. 6 7 8 9. And these words which I command this day shall be in thine heart v. 7. And thou shalt teach them diligently to thy children and thou shale talk of them when thou sittest in thine house and when thou walkest by the way and when thou lyest down and when thou risest up v. 8. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thy hand and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes v. 9. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house and upon thy gates Gen. 18. 17-19 And the Lord said Shall I hide from Abraham the thing which I do v. 19. For I know him that he will command his children and his houshold after him and they shall keep the way of the Lord c. Psal 78. 5 6 7. For he established a Testimony in Jacob and appointed a Law in Israel which he commanded our fathers that they should make known to their children v. 6. That the generations to come might know them even the children which should be born who should arise and declare them to their children v. 7. That they might set their hope in God and not forget the works of God but keep his Commandments to which end the holy Scriptures are to be translated out of the Original into vulgar languages (y) 1 Cor. 14. 6-9-11 12-15 16-24-27 28. Now brethren if I come unto you speaking with tongues what shall I profit you except I shall speak to you either by revelation or by knowledg or by prophecying or by doctrine v. 9. So likewise ye except ye utter by the tongue words easie to be understood how shall it be known what is spoken for ye shall speak into the air v. 11. Therefore If I know not the meaning of the voice I shall be unto him that speaketh a Barbarian and he that speaketh shall be a Barbarian unto me v. 12. Even so ye for as much as ye are zealous of Spiritual gifts seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the Church v. 15. What is it then I will pray with the Spirit and will pray with understanding also I will sing with the Spirit and with understanding also v. 16. Else when thou shalt bless with the Spirit how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest v. 24. But if all prophecy and there come in one that believeth not or one unlearned he is convinced of all he is judged of all v. 27. If any man speak in an unknown tongue let it be by two or at most by three and that by course and let one interpret v. 28. But if there be no interpreter let him keep silence in the Church and let him speak to himself and to God Q. How is the word of God to be read A. The holy Scriptures are to be read with an high and reverend esteem of them (z) Psal 19. 10. More to be desired are they then glod yea then much fine gold sweeter also then the honey and the honey-comb Neh. 8. from ver 3. to ver 10. And he read therein from morning till noon c. and the ears of the people were attentive unto the book of the Law V. 4 And Ezra the Scribe
your edifying Eph. 4. 12. For the perfecting of the saints for the work of the ministry for the edifying of the body of Christ and salvation (d) 1 Tim. 4. 16. Take heed unto thy self and to the doctrine continue in them for in doing this thou shalt both save thy self and them that hear thee Act. 16. 16 17 18. But rise and stand upon thy feet for I have appeared unto thee for this purpose to make thee a minister and a witness c. v. 17. Delivering thee from the people and from the Gentiles unto whom I now send thee v. 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 and an inheritance among them that are sanctified by faith that is in me Q. What is required of those that hear the Word preached A. It is required of those that hear the Word preached that they attend upon it with diligence (e) Prov. 8 34. Blessed is the man that heareth me watching daily at my gates waiting at the posts of my doors preparation (f) 1 Pet. 2. 1 2. Wherefore laying aside all malice and all guile and hypocrisy and envies and evil-speakings v. 2. As new born babes desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby Luk 8. 18. Take beed therefore how ye hear for whosoever hath to him shall be given and whosoever hath not from him shall be taken c. and prayer (g) Psal 119. 18. Open mine eyes that I may behold wonderous things out of thy law Eph. 6. 18 19. Praying alwayes with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints v. 19. And for me that utterance may be given unto me that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the Gospel examine what they hear by the Scriptures (h) Act. 17. 11. These were more noble then those of Thessalonica in that they received the word with all readiness of mind and searched the Scriptures daily whether those things were so receive the truth with faith (i) Heb. 4. 2. For unto us was the Gospel preached as well as unto them but the word preached did not profit them being not mixed with faith in them that heard it love (k) 2 Thes 2. 10. And with all deceivableness of unrighteousnesse in them that perish because they received not the love of the truth that they might be saved meekness (l) Jam. 1. 21. Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness and receive with meekness the ingrafted word which is able to save your souls and readiness of mind (m) Act. 17. 11. These were more noble then those in Thessalonica in that they received the Word with all readiness of mind and searched the Scriptures daily whether those things were so as the Word of God (n) 1 Thes 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 which effectually worketh also in you that believe meditate (o) Luk. 9. 44. Let these sayings sink down into your ears for the Son of man shall be delivered c. Heb. 2. 1. Therefore we ought to give the more diligent heed to the things we have heard left at any time we should let them slip and confer of it (p) Luk. 24. 14. And they talked together of all these things which had hapned Deut. 6. 6 7. And these words which I command thee this day shall be in thine heart v. 7. And thou shalt teach them diligently to thy children and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thy house and when thou walkest by the way and when thou lyest down and when thou risest up hide it in their hearts (q) Prov. 2. 1 My son if thou wilt receive my words and hide my commandments with thee Psal 119. 11 Thy word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against thee and bring forth the fruit of it in their lives (r.) Luk. 8. 15. But that on the good ground are they which with an honest and good heart having heard the word keep it and bring forth fruit with patience Jam. 1. 25. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty and continueth therein being not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the word this man shall be blessed in his deed Q. How do the Sacraments become effectual meanes of salvation A. The Sacraments become effectual meanes of salvation not by any power in themselves or any vertue derived from the piety and intention of him by whom they are administred but only by the working of the holy Ghost and the blessing of Christ by whom they are instituted (Å¿.) 1 Pet. 3. 21. The like figure whereunto even Baptism doth also now save us not the putting away of the filth of the flesh but the answer of a good conscience toward God by the resurrection of Jesus Christ Act. 8. 13 Then Simon himself believed also and when he was baptized he continued with Philâ—p and wondred beholding the miracles and signs which were done Compared with v. 23. For I perceive said Peter to Simon that thou art in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity 1 Cor. 3. 6 7. I have planted Apollo watered but God gave the inâ—rease v. 7. So then neither is he that planteth any thing nor he that watereth but God that giveth tâ—e increase 1 Cor. 12. 13. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body whether we be Jewâ—â— â—â— Gentilâ—â— bond or free and have been all made to drink into one Spirit Q. What is a Sacrament A. A Sacrament is an holy ordinance instituted by Christ in his Church (t) Gen. 17. 7 -10 And I will establish my Covenant between me and thee and their seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting Covenant to be a God unto thee and to thy seed after thee v. 10. This is my Covenant which ye shall keep between me and you and thy seed after thee Every man-child among you shall be circumcised Exod. Cap. 12. Containing the institution of the Passover Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations Baptizing them in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost Mat. 26. 26 27 28 And as they were earing Jesus took bread and blessed it and brake it and gave it to the Disciples and said Take eat This is my body v. 27. And he took the cup and gave thanks and gave it to them saying Drink ye all of it v. 28. For this is my blood of the New Testament which is shed for many for the remission of sins to signifie seale and exhibit (u) Rom. 4.
and rejected of men a man of sorrows and acquainted with griefs and we hid as it were our faces from him he was despised and we esteemed him not the wrath of God (g) Luk. 22. 44. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground Mat. 27. 46. And about the ninth hour Jesus cryed with a loud voice saying ELI ELILAMA-SABACTHANI that is to say My God my God why hast thou forsaken me and the cursed death of the cross (h) Phil. 2. 8. And being found in fashion as a man he humbled himself and became obedient unto death even the death of the cross in being buried (i) 1 Cor. 15. 4. And that he was buried and that he rose again the third day according to the Scriptures and continuing under the power of death for a time (k) Mat. 2. 40. As Jonas was three dayes and three nights in the whales belly so shall the Son of man be three dayes and three nights in the heart of the earth Act. 2. 24 25 26 27 -31 v. 24. Woom God bath raised having loosed the pains of death because it was not possible that he should be holden of it v. 25. For David speaketh concerning him I foresaw the Lord alwayes before my face for he is on my right hand that I should not be moved v. 26. Therefore did my heart rejoyce and my tongue was glad moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope v. 27. Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell neither wilt thou suffer thine holy One to see corruption v. 31. He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ that his soul was not left in hell neither did his flesh see corruption Q. Wherein consisteth Christs Exaltation A. Christs exaltation consisteth in his rising again from the dead on the third day (l) 1 Cor. 15. 4. And that he was buried and that he rose again the third day according to the Scriptures in ascending up into heaven (m) Mark 16. 19. So then after the Lord had spoken to them he was received up into heaven and sate on the right hand of God in sitting at the right hand of God the Father (n) Eph. 1. 20. Which he wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places and in coming to judge the world at the last day (o) Act. 1. 11. Which also said Ye men of Galilee why stand ye gâ—zing up into heaven this same Jesus which is taken up from you into heaven shall come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven Chap. 17. v. 31. He hath appointed a day in the which he shall judge the world in righteousnesse by that man whom he hath ordained whereof he hath given assurance unto all men in that he hath raised him from the dead Q. How are we made partakers of the Redemption purchased by Christ A. We are made partakers of the Redemption purchased by Christ by the effectual application of it to us (p) John 1. 11 12. v. 11. He came unto his own and his own received him not v. 12. But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the Sons of God even to them that believe on his Name by his holy Spirit (q) Tit. 3. 5 6. v. 5. Not by works of righteousnesse which we have done but according to his mercy â—e saved us by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the holy Ghost v. 6. Which be shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Sâ—viour Q. How doth the Spirit apply to us the Redemption purchased by Christ A. The Spirit applieth to us the Redemption purchased by Christ by working faith in us (r) Eph. 1. 13 14. v. 13. In whom ye also trusted after that ye heard the Word of truth the Gospel of your salvation in whom also after that ye believed ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise v. 14. Which is an earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession unto the praise of his glory Joh. 6. 37 39. v. 37. All the Father giveth me shall come unto me and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out v. 39. And this is the Fathers will which hath sent me that of all which he hath given I should lose nothing but should raise it again at the last day Eph. 2. 8. By grace ye are saved through faith and that not of your selves it is the gift of God and thereby uniting us to Christ in our effectual Calling (Å¿) Eph. 3. 17. That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith that ye being rooted and grounded in love 1 Cor. 1. 9. God is faithful by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Q. What is effectual Calling A. Effectuall calling is the work of Gods Spirit (t) 2 Tim. 1 9. Who hath saved us and called us with an holy calling not according to our works but according to his own purpose and grace which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began 2 Thes 2. 13 14. v. 13. But we are bound to give thanks alwayes to God for you brethren beloved of the Lord because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through Sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth v. 14. Whereunto he called you by our Gospâ—l to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ whereby convincing us of our sin and misery (u) Act. 2. 37. Now when they heard this they were pricked in their hearts and said unto Peter and to the rest of the Apostles men and brethren what shall we do inlightning our minds in the knowledg of Christ (*) Act 26. 18. To open their eyes and to turn them from darknesse to light and from the power of Satan unto God that they may receive forgiveness of sins and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me and renewing our wills (x) Ezek. 36. 26 27. v. 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 your flesh and I will give you an heart of flesh v. 27. And I will put my Spirit within you and cause you to walk in my statutes and ye shall keep my judgments and do them he doth perswade and enable us to embrace Jesus Christ freely offered to us in the Gospel (y) John 6. 44 45. v. 44. No man can come unto me except the Father which hath sent me draw him and I will raise him up at the last day v. 45. As 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 Phil. 2.
what man knoweth the things of a man save the spirit of man that is in him even so the things of God knows no man but the Spirit of God works r Col. 1. 16. For by him were all things created that are in heaven and that are in earth visible and invisible whether they be Thrones or Dominions or Principalities or Powers all things were created by him and for him Gen. 1. 2. And the earth was without form and void and darkness was upon the face of the earth and the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters and worship Å¿ Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost 2 Cor. 13. 14. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the Communion of the Holy Ghost be with you all Amen are proper to God onely Q. What are the Decrees of God A. God's Decrees are the wise free and holy acts of the counsel of his will t Ephes 4. 11. In whom also we have obtained an inheritance being Predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will Rom. 11. 33. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgements and his wayes past finding out Rom. 9. 14 15 18. What shall we say then Is there unrighteousness with God God forbid For he saith to Moses I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion Therefore he hath mercy on whom he will have mercy and whom he will he hardeneth whereby from all eternity he hath for his own glory unchangeably fore-ordained whatsoever comes to pass in time u Eph. 1. 4 11. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world that we should be holy and without blame before him in love In whom also we have obtained an inheritance being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will Rom. 9. 22 23. What if God willing to shew his wrath and to make his power known endured with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction and that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy which he had before prepared unto glory Psal 33. 11. The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever the thoughts of his heart unto all generations especially concerning Angels and men Q. What hath God especially decreed concerning Angels and men A. God by an eternal and immutable decree out of his meer love for the praise of his glorious grace to be manifested in due time hath elected some Angels to glory * 1 Tâ—m 5. 21. I charge thee before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect Angels that thou observe these things without preferring one before another doing nothing by partiality and in Christ hath chosen some men to eternal life and the means thereof x Eph. 1. 4 5 6. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundations of the world that we should be holy and without blame before him in love having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself according to the good pleasure of his will to the praise of the glory of his grace wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved 2 Thes 2. 13 14. But we are bound to give thanks to God alway for you Brethren beloved of the Lord because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth whereunto he called you by our Gospel to the obtaining of the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ and also according to his sovereign power and the unsearchable counsel of his own will whereby he extendeth or withholdeth favour as he pleaseth hath passed by fore-ordained the rest to dishonour and wrath to be for their sin inflicted to the praise of the glory of his justice y Rom. 9. 17 18-21 22. For the Scripture saith unto Pharaoh even for this same purpose have I raised thee up that I might shew my power in thee and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy and whom he will he hardeneth Hath not the Potter power over his clay of the same lump to make one vessell unto honour and another unto dishonour What if God willing to shew his wrath and to make his power known endured with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction Matth. 11. 25 26. At that time Jesus answered and said I thank Thee O Father Lord of Heaven Earth because thou hast hid these things from the wise the prudent and hast revealed them unto Babes Even so Father for so it seemed good in thy sight 2 Tim. 2. 20. But in a great house there are not onely vessels of gold and of silver but also of wood and of earth and some to honor and some to dishonor Jude v. 4. For there are certain men crept in unawares who were before of old ordained to this condemnation ungodly men turning the grace of God into wantonness denying the onely God and our Lord Jesus Christ 1 Pet. 2. 8. And a stone of stumbling and a rock of offence to them that stumble at the word being disobedient whereunto also they were appointed Q. How doth God execute his Decrees A. God executeth his Decrees in the works of Creation and Providence according to his infallible fore-knowledge and the free and immutable counsel of his own will z Ephes 1. 11. In whom also we have obtained an inheritance being predestinated according to the purpose of Him who worketh all things according to the counsel of his own will Q. What is the work of Creation A. The work of Creation is that wherein God did in the beginning by the Word of his power make of nothing the World and all things therein for himself within the space of six dayes and all very good a Gen. 1. Heb. 11. 3. Through faith we understand that the Worlds were framed by the word of God so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear Prov. 16. 4. The Lord hath made all things for himself yea even the wicked for the day of evill Q. How did God create Angels A. God created all the Angels b Col. 1. 16. For by him were all things created that are in heaven and that are in earth visible and invisible whether they be Thrones or Dominions or Principalities or Powers all things were created by him and for him Spirits c Psal 104. 4. Who maketh his Angels Spirits his Ministers a flame of fire Immortal d Mat. 22. 30. For in the Resurrection they neither
How is the grace of God manifested in the second Covenant A. The grace of God is manifested in the second Covenant in that he freely provideth and offereth to sinners a Mediator t Gen. 3. 15. And I will put enmity between thee and the woman and between thy seed and her seed it shall bruise thy head and thou shalt bruise his heel Isa 42. 6. I the Lord have called thee in righteousness and will hold thine hand and will keep thee and will give thee for a Covenant of the people for a light of the Gentiles Joh. 6. 27. Labour not for the meat which perisheth but for the meat which endureth unto everlasting life which the son of man shall give unto you for him hath God the father sealed and life and salvation by him u 1 John 5. 11 12. And this is the record that God hath given unto us eternal life and this life is in his Son V. 12. He that hath the Son hath life and he that hath not the Son hath not life and requiring faith as the condition to interest them in him * Joh. 3. 16. For God so loved the world that he gave his onely begotten Son that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life John 1. 12. But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the sons of God even to them that believe on his name promiseth and giveth his holy Spirit x Prov. 1. 23. Behold I will pour out my Spirit unto you I will make known my words unto you to all his elect to work in them that faith y 2 Cor. 4. 13. We having the same spirit of faith according as it is written I believed and therefore have I spoken we also believe and therefore speak with all other saving graces z Gal. 5. 22 23. But the fruit of the Spirit is love joy peace long-suffering gentleness goodness faith V. 22. Meekness temperance against such there is no law and to enable them unto all holy obedience a Ezek. 36. 27. And I will put my Spirit within you and cause you to walk in my statutes and ye shall keep my judgements and do them as the evidence of the truth of their faith b Jam. 2. 18 22. Yea a man may say Thou hast faith and I have works shew me thy faith without thy works and I will shew thee my faâ—th by my works V. 22. Seest thou how faith wrought with his works and by works was faith made perfect and thankfulness to God c 2 Cor. 5. 14 15. For the love of Christ constraineth us because we thus judge that if one died for all then were all dead V. 15 And that he died for all that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves but unto him which died for them and rose again and as the way which he hath appointed to salvation d Eph. 2. 10. For we are his workmanship created in Christ Jesus unto good works which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them Q. Was the Covenant of Grace alwaies administred after one and the same manner A. The Covenant of Grace was not alwayes administred after the same manner but the administrations of it under the Old Testament were different from those under the New e 2 Cor. 3. 6 7 8 9. Who also hath made us able Ministers of the New Testament not of the letter but of the Spirit for the letter killeth but the Spirit giveth life V. 7. But if the Ministration of death written and ingraven in stones was glorious so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance which glory was to be done away V. 8. How then shall not the ministration of the Spirit be rather glorious V. 9. For if the ministration of condemnation be glorious how much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory Q. How was the Covenant of Grace administred under the Old Testament A. The Covenant of Grace was administred under the Old Testament by Promises f Rom. 15. 8. Now I say that Jesus Christ was a Minister of the Circumcision for the truth of God to confirme the promises made unto the Fathers Prophecies g Act. 3. 20 24. And he shall send Jesus Christ which was preached unto you yea and all the Prophets from Samuel and those that follow after as many as have spoken have likewise foretold of these dayes Sacrifices h Heb. 10. 1. For the law having a shadow of good things to come not the very image of the things can never with those sacrifices which they offer year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect Circumcision i Rom. 4. 11. And he received the sign of Circumcision a seal of the righteousness of faith which he had being yet 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 the Passeover k 1 Cor. 5. 7. Purge out therefore the old leaven that ye may be a new lump as ye are unleavened for even Christ our Passeover is sacrificed for us and other Types and Ordinances which did all fore-signifie Christ then to come and were for that time sufficient to build up the Elect in faith in the promised Messiah l Heb 8. 9. and 10. chapters Heb. 11. 13. These all died in faith not having received the promises but having seen them afar off and were perswaded of them and embraced them and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth by whom they then had full remission of sin and eternal salvation m Gal. 3. 7 8 9-14 Know ye therefore that they who are of faith are the children of Abraham And the Scripture foreseeing that God would justifie the heathen through faith preached before the Gospel unto Abraham saying In thee shall all nations be blessed So then they who be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham V. 14. That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith Q. How is the Covenant of grace administred under the New Testament A. Under the New Testament when Christ the substance was exhibited the same Covenant of Grace was and still is to be administred in the preaching of the word n Mark 16. 15. And he said unto them Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature and the administration of the Sacraments of Baptisme o Mat. 28. 19 20. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you and lo I am with you alwayes unto the end of the world and the Lords Supper p
of the Jews banded together and bound themselves under a curse saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul and lots r Esth 3. 7. In the fifth moneth that is the moneth Nisan in the twelfth year of King Ahasuerus they cast Pur that is the lot before Haman from day to day and from moneth to moneth to the twelfth moneth that is the moneth Adar Esth 9. 24. Because Haman had devised against the Jewes to destroy them and had cast Pur that is the lot to consume and destroy them Psal 22. 18. They part my garments among them and cast lots upon my vesture violating of our oaths and vowes if lawful Å¿ Psal 24. 4. He that hath clean hands and a pure heart who hath not lift up his soul unto vanity nor sworn deceitfully Eze. 17. 16 -18 19. As I live saith the Lord God surely in the place where the King dwelleth thaâ— made him King whose oath he despised and whose Covenant he breaketh even with him in the midst of Babylon he shall die V. 18 19. Seeing he despiseth the oath by breaking the Covenant when loe he had given his hand and hath done all these things he shall not escape V. 19. Therefore thus saith the Lord God As I live surely mine Oath that he hath despised and my Covenant that he hath broken even it will I recompence upon his own head and fulfilling them if of things unlawful t Mark 6. 26. And the King was exceeding sorry yet for his oaths sake and for their sakes who sate wâ—th him he would not reject her 1 Sam. 25. 22-32 33 34. So and more also do God unto the enemies of David if I leave of all that pertain to him by the morning light any that pisseth against the wall V. 32. And David said to Abigail blessed be the Lord God of Israel who sent thee this day to me V. 33. And blessed be thy advice and blessed be thou who hast kept me this day from coming to shed blood and from avenging my self with mine own hands V. 34. For in very deed as the Lord God of Israel liveth which hath kept me back from hurting thee except thou hadst hasted and come to meet me surely there had not been left unto Nabal by the morning light any that pisseth against the wall murmuring and quarrelling at u Rom. 9. 14 -19 20. What shall we say then Is there unrighteousness with God God forbid V. 19. Thou wilt say then unto me Why doth he yet find fault For who hath resisted his will V. 20. Nay but O man who art thou that replyest against God shall the thing formed say to him that formed it Why hast thou made me thus curious prying into * Deut. 29. 29. The secret things belong unto the Lord our God but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever that we may do all the words of this law and misapplying of Gods decrees x Rom. 3. 5-7 But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God what shall we say Is God unrighteous who taketh vengeance I speak as a man V. 7. For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lye unto his glory why yet am I also judged as a sinner Rom. 6. 1. What shall we say then shall we continue in sin that grace may abound God forbid and providences y Eccl. 8. 11. Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil Eccl. 9. 3. This is an evil among all things that are done under the sun that there is one event unto all yea also the heart of the sons of men is full of evil and madness is in their heart while they live and after that they go to the dead Psal 39. I said I will take heed to my wayes that I sin not with my tongue throughout misinterpreting z Mat. 5. from V. 21. To the end Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time misapplying a Ezek. 13. 22. Because with lies ye have made the heart of the righteous sad whom I have not made sad and strengthned the hands of the wicked that he should not return from his wicked way by promising him life or any way perverting the word or any part of it b 2 Pet. 3. 16. As also in all his Epistles speaking in them of those things in which are some things hard to be understood which they that are unleaâ—ned wrest as they do also the other Scriptures to their own destruction Mat. 22. 24. to the 31. Vers Saying Master Moses said If a man die having no children his brother shall marry his wife and raise up seed to his brother for there were with us seven brethren and the first c. V. 29. Jesus answered and said unto them ye erre not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God For in the Resurrection to profane jests c Isai 22. 13. And behold joy and gladness slaying of oxen and killing of sheep eating flesh and drinking wine let us eat and drink for to morrow we shall die Jer. 23. 34 -36-38 As for the Prophet and the Priests and the people that shall say The burthen of the Lord I will even punish that man and his house V. 36. And the burden of the Lord shall ye mention no more for every mans word shall be his burden for ye have perverted the words of the living God V. 38. But sith ye say The burden of the Lord and I have sent unto you saying ye shall not say The burden of the Lord therefore I will utterly forget and forsake you c. curious or unprofitable questions vain janglings or the maintaining of false Doctrines d 1 Tim. 1. 4-6 7. Neither give heed to fables and endles genealogies which minister Questions rather then good edifying which is in faith so do V. 6. From which faith some having swerved have turned aside unto vain jangling V. 7. Desiring to be teachers of the Law understanding neither what they say nor whereof they affirm 1 Tim. 6 4 5 -20 He is proud knowing nothing but doting about questions and strifes of words whereof cometh envy strife railings evil surmisings V. 5. Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth supposing that gain is godliness from such withdraw thy self V. 20. O Timothy keep that which is committed to thy trust avoiding profane and vain bablings and oppositions of science falsly so called 2 Tim. 2. 14. Of these things put them in remembrance charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no no profit but to the subverting of the hearers Tit. 3. 9. Avoid foolish questions and genealogies and contentions and strivings about the Law for thâ—y are unprofitable and vain abusing it the creatures or any thing contained under the name
are all his ordinances especially the Word Sacraments and prayer all which are made effectual to the elect for their Salvation (l) Mat. 28. 19 20. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the holy Ghost v. 20. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you and lo I am with you alwaies even unto the end of the world Act. 2. 42-46 47. And they continued stedfastly in the Apostles doctrine and fellowship and in breaking of bread and in prayers v. 46. And they continuing daily with one accord in the Temple and breaking bread from house to house did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart v. 47. Praising God and having favour with all the people And the Lord added to the Church daily such as should be saved Q. 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 enlightning (m) Neh. 8 8. So they read in the book in the Law of God distinctly and gave the sense and caused them to unstand the reading Act. 26. 18. To open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God that they may receive forgiveness of sins and inheritance among them who are sanctified by Faith that is in me Psal 19. 8. The Commandment of the Lord is pure enlightning the eyes convincing and humbling sinners (n) 1 Cor. 14. 24 25. But if all prophecy and there come in one that believeth not or one unlearned he is convinced of all he is judged of all v. 25. And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest and so falling down on his face he will worship God and report that God is in you of a truth 2 Chro. 34. 18 19 -26 27 28. Then Shaphan the Scribe told the King saying Hilkieh the Priest hath given me a book And Shaphan read it before the King v. 19. And when the King had heard the words of the Law he rent his cloths v. 26. And as for the King of Judah who sent you to enquire of the Lord so shall ye say unto him Thus saith the Lord God of Israel concerning the words which thou hast heard v. 27. Because thy heart was tender and thou didst humble thy self before God when thou heardst his words against this place and humblest thy self before me and didst rent thy cloaths and weep before me I have heard thee also saith the Lord. v. 28. Behold I will gather thee to thy fathers and thou shalt be gathered to thy grave in peace c. of driving them out of themselves and drawing them unto Christ (o) Act. 2. 37 -41 Now when they heard this they were pricked to their hearts and said unto Peter and the rest of the Apostles Men and brethren what shall we do to be saved v. 41. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized and the same day there were added unto them about 3000 Souls Act. 8. from ver 27. to ver 39. And behold a man of Ethiopia an Eunuch of great authority c. was returning and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the Prophet v. 29. Then the Spirit said to Philip Go neer and join thy self to this Charioâ— v. 30. And Philip ran thither to him and said Understandest thou what thou readest c. v. 35. Then Philip began at the same Scripture and preached unto him Iesus V. 36. And the Eunuch said See here is water what doth hinder me to be baptized v. 37. And Philip said If thou believest with all thine heart thou maist And he answered and said I believe that Iesus Christ is the Son of God V. 38. And they went down both into the water and he Baptized him of comforming them to his Image (p) 2 Cor 3. 18. But we all with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord are changed into the same image from glory to glory even as by the Spirit of the Lord. and subduing them to his will (q) 2 Cor. 10. 4 5 6. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds v. 5. Casting down imaginations and every high thing that exalteth it self against the knowledg of God and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ v. 6. And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled Rom. 6. 17. But God be thanked that ye were the servants of sin but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered to you of strengthening them against temptations and corruptions (r) Mat. 4. 4 -7 10. But he answered and said It is written Man shall not live c. v. 7. Iesus said unto him It is written Thou shalt not tempt the Lord c. v. 10. Then said Jesus unto him get thee hence Satan for it is written Thou shalt worship c. Eph 6. â—6 17. Above all taking the shield of Faith whereby ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked v. 17. And take the helmet of Salvation and the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God Psal 19. 11. Moreover by them is thy servant warned and in keeping of them there is great reward 1 Cor 10. 11. Now all these things hapned unto them for ensamples and they are written for our admonition upon whom the ends of the world are câ—mâ— of building them up in grace (Å¿) Act. 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 to give you an inheritance among them that are sanctified 2 Tim. 3. 15 16 17. And that from a child thou hast known the holy Scriptures which are able to make thee wise unto Salvation through Faith which is in Christ Jesus v. 16. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for doctrine for reproof for correction for instruction in righteousness v. 17. That the man of God may be perfect throughly furnished unto all good works and establishing their hearts in holiness and comfort through faith unto salvation (t) Rome 16. 25. Now to him that is of power to establish you according to my Gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ according to the revelation of the mysterie which was kept secret since the world began 1 Thes 3. 2-10 11 -13 And sent Timotheus our brother and minister of God and our fellow labourer in the Gospel of Christ to establish you and comfort you concerning your faith v. 10. Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face and perfect what is lacking in your faith v. 11. Now God himself and our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ direct our way unto you v. 13. To the end he may
that prophecy in my Name and I sent them not yet they say c. Rom. 10. 15. And how shall they preach except they be sent as it is written How beautiful c. Heb. 5. 4. And no man taketh this honour unto himself but he that is called of God as was Aaron 1 Cor. 12. 28 29. And God hath set some in the Church first Apostles secondarily Prophets thirdly Teachers after that Miracles then gifts of healing Helps Governments diversities of tongues v. 29 Are all Apostles are all Pâ—opets are all Teachers are all workers of Miracles 1 Tim. 3. 10. And let these also first be proved then let them use the office of a Deacon being found blameless 1 Tim. 4. 14. Neglect noâ— the gift that is in thee which was given thee by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the Presbytery 1 Tim. 5. 22. Lay hands suddenly on no man neither be partaker of other mens sins c. Q How is the Word of God to be preached by those that are called thereunto A. They that are called to labour in the ministry of the Word are to preach sound doctrine (m) Tit. 2. 1 -8 But speak thou the things that become sound doctrine v. 8. Sound speech that cannot be condemned that he who is of the contrary part may be ashamed having no evil thing to say of you diligently (n) Act. 18. 25. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord and being servent in the Spirit he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord c. in season and out of season (o) 2 Tim. 4. 2. Preach the word be instant in season out of season rebuke reprove exhort with all long suffering and doctrine plainly (p) 1 Cor. 14. 19. Yet in the Church I had rather speak five words with my understanding that by my voice I might teach others also then ten thousand words in an unknown tongue not in the enticing words of mans wisdom but in demonstration of the Spirit and power (q) 1 Cor. 2. 4. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of mans wisdom but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power faithfully (r) Jer. 23. 28. The Prophet that hath a dream let him tell a dream and he that hath my word let him speak my word faithfully What is the chaff to the wheat saith the Lord 1 Cor 4. 1 2. Let a man so account of us as of the ministers of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God v. 2. Moreover it is required in stewards that a man be found faithful making known the whole counsel of God (Å¿) Act. 20. 27. For I have not shunned to declare unto you the whole counsel of God wisely (t) Col. 1. 28. Whom we preach warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus 2 Tim. 2. 15. Study to shew thy self approved unto God a workman that needeth not to be ashamed rightly dividing the word of truth applying themselves to the necessities and capacities of the hearers (u) 1 Cor. 3. 2. I have sed you with milk and not with meat for hitherto ye were not able to bear it neither yet now are ye able Heb. 5. 12 13 14. For when for the time ye ought to be teachers ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the Oracles of God and are become such as have need of milk and not of strong meat v. 13. For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness for he is a babe v. 14. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil Luk. 12. 42. And the Lord said Who then is that faithful and wise steward whom his Lord shall make ruler over his houshold to give them their portion of meat in due season zealously (*) Act. 18. 25. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord and being fervent in the Spirit he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord c. with fervent love to God (x) 2 Cor. 5. 13 14. For whether we be besides our selves it is to God or whether we be sober it is for your cause v. 14. For the love of Christ constraineth us because we thus judge that if one dyed for all then were all dead Phil. 1. 15 16 17. Some indeed preach Christ out of envy and strife and some also of good will v. 16. The one preach Christ of contention not sincerely supposing to adde affliction to my bonds v. 7. But the other of love knowing that I am set for the defence of the Gospel and the souls of his people (y) Col. 4. 12. Epaphras who is one of you a servant of Christ saluteth you alwayes labouring servently for you in prayers that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God 2 Cor. 12. 15. And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you though the more abundantly I love you the less I be loved sincerely (z) 2 Cor. 2. 17. For we are not as many who corrupt the word of God but as of sincerity but as of God in the sight of God speak we in Christ 2 Cor. 4. 2. But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty not walking in craftiness nor handling the word of God deceitfully but by manifestation of the truth commending our selves to every mans conscience in the sight of God aiming at his glory (a) 1 Thes 2. 4 5 6. But as we are allowed of God to be put in trust with the Gospel even so we speak not as pleasing men but God who tryeth the hearâ—s v. 5. For neither at any time used we flattering words as ye know not a cloak of covetousness God is witness v. 6. Nor of men sought we glory neither of you nor yet of others when we might have been burdensome as the Apostles of Christ Joh. 7. 18. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory but he that seeketh his glory that sent him the same is true and no unrighteousness is in him and their conversion (b) 1 Cor. 9. 19 20 21 22. For though I be free from all men yet have I made my self servant unto all that I might gain the more v. 20. And unto the Jewes I became as a Jew that I might gain the Jewes to them that are under the Law as under the Law that c. v. 21. To them that are without Law as without Law that c. v. 22. To the weak became I as weak that I might gain the weak I am made all things to all men c. edification (c) 2 Cor. 12 19. Again think you that we excuse our selves unto you we speak before God in Christ but we do all things dearly beloved for
c the Church furnished with all Gospel officers and ordinances (g) Matth 9. 38. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest that he will send forth labourers into his harvest 2 Thes 3. 1. Finally brethren pray for us that the word of the Lord may have a free course and be glorified even as it is with you purged from corruption (h) Mal. 3. 1 11. For from the rising of the sun even to the going down of the same my Name shall be great among the Gentiles and in every place incense shall be offered up unto my Name and a pure offering for my Name shall be great among the Heathen saith the Lord of hosts Zeph. 3. 9. For then will I turn to the people a pure language that they may all call upon the Name of the Lord to serve him with one consent countenanced and maintained by the civil magistrate (i) 1 Tim. 2. 1 2. I exhort therefore that first â—f all supplications prayers intercessions and thanksgivings be made for all men v. 2. For Kings and for all that are in auâ—hority thâ—t me may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty that the ordinances of Christ may be purely dispensed and made effectual to the converting of those that are yet in their sins and the confirming comforting and building up of those that are already converted (k) Act. 4. 29 30. And now Lord behold their threatnings and grant unto thy servanâ—s that with all boldness they may speak thy word v. 30. By stretching forth â—hine hand to heal and that signes and wonders may be done by the Name of thy Holy Child Jesus Eph. 6. 18 19 20. Praying alwayes with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints v. 19. And for me thâ—t utterance may be given me that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the Gentiles v. 20. For which I am an Ambassador in bonds that therein I may speak boldly as I ought to speak Rom. 15. 29 30 -32 And I am sure that when I come unto you I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the Gospel of Christ v. 30. Now I beseech you brethren for the Lord Jesus Christ sake and for the love of the Spirit that ye strive together with me in your prayers to God for me v. 32. That I may come unto you with joy by the will of God and may with you be refreshed 2 Thes 1. 11. Wherefore we pray alwayes for you that our God would count you worthy of his calling and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness and the work of faith with power 2 Thes 2. 16 17. Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God even our Father which hâ—th loved us and given us everlasting consolation and good hope through grace v. 17. Comfort your heart and stablish you in every good word and work that Christ would rule in our hearts here (l) Eph. 3. from ver 14. to the 21. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ v. 15. Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named v. 16. That he would grant you according to the riches of his glory to be strengthened with might by his spirit in the inner man v. 17. That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith that ye being rooted and grounded in love v. 18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth and length and depth and height v. 19. And to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledg that ye might be filled with the fulness of God v. 20. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think c. and hasten the time of his second coming and our reigning with him for ever (m) Rev. 22. 20. He which testifieth these things saith surely I come quâ—ckly Amen even so come Lord Jesus and that he would be pleased so to exercise the kingdom of his power in all the world as may best conduce to these ends (n) Isai 64. 1 2. O that thou wouldst rend the heavens that thou wouldst come down that the mountains might flow down at thy presence v. 2. As when the melting fire burneth the fire causeth the waters to boil to make thine name known to thine adversaries that the nations may tremble at thy presence Rev. 4. 8 9 10 11. And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him and they were full of eyes within and they rest not day and night saying Holy holy holy Lord God Almighty which was and is and is to come v. 9. And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne who liveth for ever and ever v. 10. That four and twenty Elders fall down before him that sat on the throne and worship him that liveth for ever and ever and cast their Crowns before the throne saying v. 11. Thou art worthy O Lord to receive glory and honour and power for thou hast created all things and for thy pleasure they are and were created Q. What do we pray for in the third Petition A. In the third petition which is Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven (o) Matth. 6. 10. acknowledging that by nature we and all men are not only utterly unable and unwilling to know and to do the will of God (p) Rom. 7. 18. For I know that in me that is in my flesh dwelleth no good thing for to will is present with me but how to perform that which is good I find not Job 21. 14. Therefore thâ—y say unto God Depart from us we desire not the knowledg of thy wayes 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 be know them because they are spiritually discerned but prone to rebel against his word (q) Rom. 8. 7. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God for it is not subject to the Law of God neither indeed can be to repine and murmur against his Providence (r) Exod. 17. 7. And he called the name of the place Massah and Meribaâ— because of the chiding of the children of Israel and because they tempted the Lord saying is the Lord among us or not Num. 14. 2. And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron And the whole Congregation said unto them would God that we had died in the land of Egypt would God that we had died in this wilderness and wholly inclined to do the will of the flesh of the devil (Å¿) Eph. â— 2. Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world according to the prince of the power of the ayre the spirit that now woâ—keth in the children of disobedience We
comes to passe (r) Eph. 1. 4. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundations of the world that we should be holy and without blame before him in love v. 11. In whom also we obtained an inheritance being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the purpose of his own will Rom. 9. 22. What if God willing to shew his wrath and to make his power known endured with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction v. 23. And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy which he had afore prepared unto glory Q. How doth God execute his decrees A. God executeth his decrees in the works of Creation and Providence Q. VVhat is the work of Creation A. The work of Creation is Gods making all things of nothing by the Word of his Power in the space of six dayes and all very Good (Å¿) Gen. 1. throughout Heb. 11. 3. Through Faith we understand that the world were framed by the Word of God so that things which were seen were made of things that do appear Q. How did God create man A. God created man male and female after his own image in knowledge righteousness and holiness with dominion over the creatures (t) Gen. 1. 26. And God said let us make man in our own image after our likeness and let them have dominion 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 v. 27. So God created man in his own image in the image of God created he him male and female created he them v. 28. And God blessed them and God said unto them be fruitful and multiply and replenish the earth and subdue it and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the fowl of the air and over every living thing that creepeth upon the earth Col. 3. 10. And have put on the new man which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him Eph. 4. 24. And that ye put on that new man which after God is created in righteousnesle and true holinesse Q. What are Gods works of Providence A. Gods works of Providence are his most holy (u) Psal 145. 17. The Lord is righteous in all his wayes and holy in all his works wise * Psal 104. 24. O Lord how manifold are thy works in wisdom hast thou made them all the earth is full of thy riches Isa 28 29. This also cometh from the Lord of hosts which is wonderful in counsel and excellent in working and powerful preserving (x) Heb. 1. 3. Who being the brightness of his glory and the express image of his person and upholding all things by the word of his power when he had by himself purged our sins sate down on the right hand of the Majesty on high and governing all his creatures and all their actions (y) Psal 103. 19. The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heaven his kingdom ruleth over all Matth. 10. 29. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing and one of them shall not fall to the ground without your Father v. 30. But the very hairs of your head are all numbred v. 31. Fear ye not therefore ye are of more value then many sparrows Q. What speciall act of Providence did God exercise towards man in the estate wherein he was created A. When God had created man he entred into a Covenant of life with him upon condition of perfect obedience forbidding him to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil upon pain of death (z) Gal. 3. 12. And the law is not of faith but the man that doth them shall live in them Gen. 2. 17. But of the tree of knowledge of good and evil thou shalt not â—â—â—â—f it for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die Q. Did our first Parents continue in the state wherein they were created A. Our first Parents being left to the freedom of their own will fell from the estate wherein they were created by sinning against God (a) Gen. 3. 6. And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food and that it was pleasant to the eyes and a tree to be desired to make one wise she took of the fruit thereof and did eat and gave also to her husband with her and he did eat v. 7 And the eyes of them both were opened and they knew that they were naked and they sewed fig-leaves together and made themselves aprons v. 8. And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden v. 13. And the Lord God said unto the woman what is this that thou hast done and the woman said the Serpent beguiled me and I did eat Eccles 7. 29. Lo this onely have I found that God hath made man upright but they have sought out many inventions Q. What is sin A. Sin is any want of conformity unto or transgression of the Law of God (b) 1 John 3. 4. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law for sin is the transgression of the law Q. What was the sin whereby our first Parents fell from the estate wherein they were created A. The sin whereby our first Parents fell from the state wherein they were created was their eating the forbidden fruit (c) Gen. 3. 6. vide supra V. 12. The woman which thou gavest to be with me she gave me of the tree and I did eat Q. Did all mankind fall in Adams first transgression A. The Covenant being made with Adam not only for himself but for his posterity all mankind descending from him by ordinary generation sinned in him and fell with him in his first transgression (d) Gen. 2. 16. And the Lord God commanded the man saying of every tree of the garden thou mayst freely eat v. 17 But of the tree of the knowledg of good and evil thou shalt not eat of it for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die Rom. 5. 12. Wherefore as by one man sin entred into the world and death by sin and so death passed upon all men for that all have sinned 1 Cor. 15. 21. For since by man came death by man also came the resurrection of the dead v. 22. For as in Adam all die so in Christ shall all be made alive Q. Into what estate did the fall bring mankind A. The Fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery (e) Rom. 5. 12. Wherefore as by one man sin entred in to the world and death by sin and so death passed upon all men for that all have sinned Q. Wherein consists the sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell
earth and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually Gen. 8. 21. And the Lord smelled a sweet favour and the Lord said in his heart I will not again curse the ground any more for mans sake for the imagination of mans heart is evil from his 〈◊〉 neither will I again smite any more every thing living as I have done Rom. 3. 9. What then are we better then they no in no wise for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles that they are all under sin and so on to verse 21. Jam. 3. 2. For in many things we offend all If any man offend not in word the same is a perfect man and able also to bridle the whole body and so on to verse 13. Q. Are all transgressions of the Law equally hainous A. Some sins in themselves and by reason of several aggravations are more hainous in the sight of God then others (a) Ezek. 8. 6. He said furthermore unto me Son of man seest thou what they do even the great abominations that the house of Israel committeth here that I should go far off from my sanctuary but turn thee yet again and thou shalt see greater abominations V. 13. He said also unto me turn thee yet again and thou shalt see greater abominations that they do V. 15. Then said he unto me hast thou seen this Oh son of man turn thee yet again and thou shalt see greater abominations then these 1 Joh. 5. 16. If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death he shall ask and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death there is a sin unto death I do not say that he shall pray for it Psal 78. 17. 32 56 And they sinned yet more against him by provoking the most High in the wilderness V. 32. For all this they sinned still and believed not for his wonderous works V. 56. Yet they tempted and provoked the most High God and kept not his testimonies Q. What doth every sin deserve A. Every sin deserveth Gods wrath and curse both in this life and that which is to come (b) Eph. 5. 6. Let no man deceive you with vain words for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience Gal 3. 10. For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse for it is writtted Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them Lam. 3. 39. Wherefore doth a living man complain a man for the punishment of his sins Mat. 25. 41. Then shall he also say unto them on the left hand depart from me ye cursed into everlasting fire prepared for the Devil and his Angels Q. What doth God require of us that we may escape his wrath and curse due to us for sin A. To escape the wrath and curse of God due to us for sin God requireth of us Faith in Jesus Christ repentance unto life (c) Acts 20. 21. Testifying both to the Jews and also to the Greeks repentance toward God and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ with the diligent use of all the outward means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of Redemption (d) Prov. 2. 1 -5 v. 1. My son if thou wilt receive my words and bide my commandments with thee c. v. 5. Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledg of God Chap. 8. 33 34 35 v. 33. Hear instruction and be wise and refuse it not v. 34. Blessed is the man that heaveth me waiting daily at my gates waiting at the posts of my doors v 35 but who so findeth me findeth life and shall obtain favour of the Lord. Isai 55. 3. Incline your ear and come unto me hear and your soul shalllive and I will make an everlasting covenant with you even the sure mercies of David Q. What is faith in Jesus Christ A. Faith in Jesus Christ is a saving grace (e) Heb. 10. 39. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition but of them that believe to the saving of the soul whereby we receive and rest upon him alone for salvation as he is offered to us in the Gospel (f) Joh. 1. 12. But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the sons of God even to them that believe on his name Isa 26. 3. Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on thee because he trusteth in thee V. 4. Trust ye in the Lord for ever for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength Phil. 3. 9. And be found in him not having mine own righteousness which is of the law but that which is through the faith of Christ the righteousness which is of God by faith Gal. 2. 16. Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by the faith of Jesus Christ even we have believed in Iesus Christ that we might be justified by the faith of Christ and not by the works of the law for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified Q. What is repentance unto life A. Repentance unto life is a saving grace (g) Act. 11. 18. When they heard these things they held their peace and glorified God saying then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life whereby a sinner out of true sense of his sin (h) Acts 2. 37. Now when they heard this they were pricked in their hearts and said unto Peter and to the rest of the Apostles Men and brethren what shall we do V. 38. Then said Peter unto them repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost and apprehension of the mercy of God in Christ (i) Ioel 2. 12. Therefore also now saith the Lord turn ye even to me with all your heart and with fasting and with weeping and with mourning Ier. 3. 22. Return ye backsliding children and I will heal your backslidings behold we come unto thee for thou art the Lord our God doth with grief and hatred of his sin turn from it unto God (k) Ier. 31. 18. I have surely heard Ephraim bemoaning himself thus thou hast chastised me and I was chastised as a bullock unaccustomed to the yoke turn thou me and I shall be turned for thou art the Lord my God V. 19. Surely after that I was turned I repented and after that I was instructed I smâ—te upon my thigh I was ashamed yea even confounded because I did bear the reproach of my youth Ezek. 36. 31. Than shall ye remember your own evil ways and your doings which were not good and shall loath your selves in your own sight for your iniquities and for you abominations with full purpose of and endeavour after new obedience
done on earth as it is in heaven Give us this day our daily bread And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debters And lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil For thine is the kingdom and the power and the glory for ever Amen The CREED I BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty maker of heaven and earth And in Jesus Christ his onely Son our Lord which was conceived by the holy Ghost born of the Virgin Mary suffered under Pontius Pilate was crucified dead and buried he descended into hell * i. e. Continued in the state of the dead and under the power of death till the third day the third day he rose again from the dead he ascended into heaven and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead I believe in the holy Ghost the holy Catholick Church the Communion of Saints the forgiveness of sins the resurrection of the body and the life everlasting Amen SO much of every Question both in the Larger and Shorter Catechism is repeated in the Answer as maketh every Answer an entire Proposition or sentence in it self to the end the Learner may further improve it upon all occasions for his encrease in knowledge and piety even out of the course of catechising as well as in it And albeit the substance of the doctrine comprised in that Abridgement commonly called The Apostles Creed be fully set forth in each of the Catechismes so as there is no necessity of inserting the Creed it self yet it is here annexed not as though it were composed by the Apostles or ought to be esteemed Canonical Scripture as the Ten Commandments and the Lords Prayer much less a Prayer as ignorant people have been apt to make both it and the Decalogue but because it is a brief sum of the Christian faith agreeable to the Word of God and anciently received in the Churches of Christ Cornelius Burges Prolocutor pro tempore Henry Roborough Scriba Adoniram Byfield Scriba To the Right Honorable THE LORDS COMMONS Assembled in Parliament The Humble Advice of the Assembly of Divines now sitting by Ordinance of Parliament at Westminster Concerning CHURCH-GOVERNMENT The Preface JEsus Christ upon whose shoulders the Government is whose name is called Wonderful Counsellour the Mighty God the Everlasting Father the Prince of Peace of the encrease of whose Government and Peace there shall be no end who sits upon the throne of David and upon his Kingdome to order it and to establish it with Judgment and Justice from henceforth even for ever having all power given unto him in Heaven and Earth by the Father who raised him from the dead and set him on his own right hand far above all Principalities and Power and Might and Dominion and every name that is named not only in this world but also in that which is to come and put all thing under his feet and gave him to be the head over all things to the Church which is his body the fulness of him that filleth all in all He being ascended up far above all Heavens that he might fill all things received gifts for his Church and gave offices necessary for the edification of his Church and perfecting of his Saints Mat. 28. 18 19 20. v. 18. And Jesus came and spake unto them saying All power is given unto me in Heaven and in Earth v. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost v. 20. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you and lo I am with you alway even unto the end of the world Amen Eph. 1. 20 21 22 23. v. 20. Which he wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places v. 21. Far above all Principality and Power and Might and Dominion and every name that is named not only in this world but also in that which is to come v. 22. And hath put all things under his feet and gave him to be the head over all things to the Church v. 23. Which is his body the fulness of him that filleth all in all compared with Eph. 4. 8 11. v. 8. Wherefore he saith when he ascended up on high he led captivity captive and gave gifts unto men v. 11. And he gave some Apostles and some Prophets and some Evangelists and some pastors and teachers And with Psal 68. 18. Thou hast ascended on high thou hast led captivity captive thou hast received gifts for men yea for the rebellious also that the Lord God might dwell among them Of the Church THere is one General Church visible held forth in the New Testament 1 Cor. 12. 12 13 28. For as the body is one and hath many members and all the members of that one body being many are one body so also is Christ v. 13. For by one spirit are we all baptized into one body whether we be Jews or Gentiles whether we be bond or free and have been all made to drink into one Spirit v. 28. And God hath set some in the Church First Apostles Secondarily Prophets Thirdly Teachers after that miracles then gifts of healings helps governments diversities of tongues Together with the rest of the Chapter The Ministry Oâ—acles and Ordinances of the New Testament are given by Jesus Christ to the General Church visible for the gathering and perfecting of it in this life until his second coming 1 Cor. 12. 28. See before Eph. 4. 4 5. v. 4. There is one body and one spirit even as ye are called in one hope of your calling v. 5. One Lord one Faith one Baptism Compared with ver 10. 11 12 13 15 16. v. 10. He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens that he might fill all things v. 11. And he gave some Apostles and some Prophets and some Evangelists and some pastors and teachers v. 12. For the perfecting of the saints for the work of the ministry for the edifying of the body of Christ v. 13. Till we all come in the unity of the faith and of the knowledg of the Son of God unto a perfect man unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ v. 15. But speaking the truth in love may grow up into him in all things which is the head even Christ v. 16. From whom the whole body fitly joyned together and compacted by that which every joynt supplieth according to the effectual working in the measure of every part maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of it self in love Particular visible Churches Members of the General Church are also held forth in the New Testament Gal 1. 21 12. v. 21. Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia v. 22. And was unknown by face unto the Churches of Judea which were in
Of Classical Assemblies THe Scripture doth hold out a Presbytery in a Church both in 1 Tim. 4. 14. Neglect not the gift that is in thee which was given thee by prophecy with the laying on of the hands of the Presbytery And in Acts 15. 2 4 6. v. 2. When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissention and disputation with them they determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain other of them should go up to Jerusalem unto the Apostles and Elders about this question v. 4. And when they were come to Jerusalem they were received of the Church and of the Apostles and Elders and they declared all things that God had done with them v. 6. And the Apostles and Elders came together for to consider of this matter A Presbytery consisteth of Ministers of the Word and such other publick Officers as are agreeable to and warranted by the Word of God to be Church-governours to joyn with the Ministers in the Government of the Church as appeareth Rom. 12. 7 8. v. 7. Or Ministry let us wait on our Ministring or he that teacheth on reaching v. 8. Or he that exhorteth on exhortation he that giveth let him do it with simplicity he that ruleth with diligence he that sheweth mercy with cheerfulness 1 Cor. 12. 28. And God hath set some in the Church first Apostles secondarily Prophets thirdly teachers after that miracles then gifts of healings helps governments diversities of tongues The Scripture doth hold forth that many particular Congregations may be under one Presbyterial Go ernment This proposition is proved by instances 1. First Of the Church of Jerusalem which consisteth of more Congregations then one and all these Congregations were under one Presbyterial Goverment This appeareth tâ—us â— First The Church of Jerusalem consisteth of more Congregations then one as is manifest 1. By the multitude of believers mentioned in divers Both before the dispersion of the believers there by means of the persecutions mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles chap. 8. in the beginning thereof witness Acts 1. 15. And in those dayes Peter stood up in the midst of the Disciples and said The number of the names together were about an hundred and twenty Acts 2. 41 46. 47. v. 41. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls v. 46. And they continuing daily with one accord in the temple and breaking bread from house to house did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart v. 47. Praising God and having favour with all the people And the Lord added to the Church daily such as should be saved Acts 5. 14. And believers were the more added unto the Lord multitudes both of men and women Acts 6. 1. 7. v. 1. And in those dayes when the number of the Disciples was multiplied there a rose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration v. 7. And the Word of God increased and the number of the Disciples multiplyed in Jerusalem greatly and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith And also after the dispersion Acts 9. 31. Then had the Churches rest throughout all Judea and Galilee and Samaria and were edified and walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort of the holy Ghost were multiplied Acts 12. 24. But the Word of God grew and multiplied Acts. 21. 20. And when they heard it they glorified the Lord and said unto him Thou seest brother how many thousand of Jews there are which believe and they are all zealous of the law Secondly By the many Apostles and other Preachers in the Church of Jerusalem And if there were but one Congregation there then each Apostle preached but seldome which will not consist with Acts 6. 2. Then the twelve called the multitude of the Discipleâ— unto them and said It is not reason that we should leave the Word of God and serve tables Thirdly The diversity of Languages amongst the Believers mentioned both in the second and sixth chapters of the Acts doth argue more Congregations then one in that Church 2. Secondly All those congregations were under one Presbyterial government because First They were one Church Acts 8. 1. And Saul was consenting unto his death And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria except the Apostles Acts 2. 47. Praising God and having favour with all the people And the Lord added unto the church daily such as should be saved Compared with chap. 5. 11. And great fear came upon all the church and upon as many as heard these things chap. 12 5. Peter therefore was kept in prison hut prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him chap. 15. 2. When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them they determined that Paul and Barnabas and certain other of them should go up to Jerusalem unto the Apostles and Elders about this question Secondly The Elders of the Church are mentioned Act. 11. 30. Which also they did and sent it to the Elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul Acts 15. 4 6 22. v. 4. And when they were come to Jerusalem they mere received of the Church and of the Apostles and Elders and they declared all things that God had done with them v. 6. And the Apostles and Elders came together to consider of this matter v. 22. Then it pleased the Apostles and Elders with the whole Church to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Bâ—rnabas namely Judas sirnamed Barsabas and Silus chief men among the brethren And ch 21. 17 18. v. 17. And when we were come to Jerusalem the brethren received us gladly v. 18. And the day following Paul went in with us unto James and all the Elders were present Thirdly The Apostles did the ordinary Acts of Presbyters as Presbyters in that Church which proveth a Presbyterial Church before the dispersion Act. 6 Fourthly The several Congregations in Jerusalem being one Church the Elders of that Church are mentioned as meeting together for acts of Government Act. 11. 30. Which also they did and sent it to the Elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul Acts 15. 4 6 22. v. 4. And when they were come to Jerusalem they were received of the Church and of the Apostles and Ellers and they declared all things that God had done with them v. 6. And the Apostles and Elders came together for to consider of this matter v. 22. Then it pleased the Apostles and Elders with the whole Church to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas namely Judas sirnamed Barsabas and Silas chief men among the brethren Acts 21. 17 18. v. 17. And when they were come to Jerusalem the brethren
of God as was Aaron Ordination is alwayes to be continued in the Church Tit. 15. For this cause left I thee in Crete that thou shouldst set in order the things that are wanting and ordain elders in every City as I had appointed thee 1 Tim. 5. 21 22. v. 21. I charge thee before God and the Lord Jesus Christ and the elect Angels that thou observe these things without preferring one before another doing nothing by partiality v. 22. Lay hands suddenly on no man neither be partaker of other mens sins Keep thy self pure Ordination is the solemn setting apart of a person to some publick Church-office Numb 8 10 11 14 19 22. v. 10. And thou shalt bring the Levites before the Lord and the children of Israel shall put their hands upon the Levites v. 11. And Aaron shall offer the Levites before the Lord for an offering of the children of Israel that they may execute the service of the Lord. v. 14. Thus shalt thou separate the Levites from among the children of Israel and the Levites shall be mine v. 19. And I have given the Levites as a gift to Aaron and to his sons from among the children of Israel to do the service of the children of Israel in the Tabernacle of the Congregation and to make an atonement for the children of Israel that there be no plague among the children of Israel when the children of Israel come nigh unto the Sanctuary v. 22. And after that went the Levites in to do their service in the Tabernacle of the Congregation before Aaron and before his sons as the Lord had commanded Moses concerning the Levites so did they unto them Acts 6. 3 5 6 v. 3. Wherefore brethren look ye out among you seven men of honest report full of the holy Ghost and wisdom whom we may appoint over this business v. 5. And the saying pleased the whole multitude and they those Stephen a man full of faith and of the holy Ghost and Philip and Prochorus and Nicanor and Timon and Permenas and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch v. 6. Whom they had set before the Apostles and when they had prayed they laid their hands on them Every Minister of the Word is to be ordained by imposition of hands and prayer with fasting by those preaching Presbyters to whom it doth belong 1 Tim. 5. 22. Lay hands suddenly on no man neither be partaker of other mens sins Keep thy self pure Acts 14. 23. And when they had ordained them Elders in every Church and had prayed with fasting they commended them to the Lord on whom they believed Acts 13. 3. And when they had fasted and prayed and laid their hands on them they sent them away It is agreeable to the Word of God and very expedient that such as are to be ordained Ministers be designed to some particular Church or other ministerial charge Acts 14. 23. See before Tit. 1. 5. For this cause left I thee in Crete that thou shouldst set in order the things that are wanting and ordain Elders in every City as I had appointed thee Acts 20 17 28. v. 17. And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called the Elders of the Church v. 28. Take heed therefore unto your selves and to all the flock over the which the holy Ghost hath made you over-seers to feed the Church of God which he hath purchased with his own blood He that is to be ordained Minister must be duly qualified both for life and Ministerial abilities according to the Rules of the Apostles 1 Tim. â—3 2 3 4 5 6. v. 2. A Bishop hen must be blameless the husband of one wife vigilant sober of good behaviour given to hospitality apt to teach v. 3. Not given to wine no striker not greedy of filthy lucre but patient not a brawler not covetons v. 4. One that ruleth well his own house having his children in subjection with all gravity v. 5. For if a man know not how to rule his own house how shall he take care of the Church of God v. 6. Not a novice lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the Devil Tit. 1. 6 7 8 9. v. 6. If any man be blameless the husband of one wife having faithful children not accused of riot or unruly v 7. For a Bishop must be blameless as the Steward of God not self-willed not soon angry not given to wine no striker not given to filthy lucre v. 8. But a lover of hospitality a lover of good men sober just holy temperate v. 9. Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gain-sayers He is to be examined and approved by those by whom he is to be ordained 1 Tim. 3. 7 10. v. 7. Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without lâ—st he fall into reproach and the snare of the Devil v. 10. And let these also first be proved then let them use the office of a Deacon being found blameless 1 Tim. 5. 22. Lay hands suddenly on no man neither be partaker of other mens sins Keep thy self pure No man is to be ordained a Minister for a particular Congregation if they of that Congregation can shew just cause of exception against him 1 Tim. 3. 2. A Bishop then must be blameless the husband of one wife vigilant sober of good behaviour given to hospitality apt to teach Tit. 1. 7. For the Bishop must be blameless as the Steward of God c. Touching the Power of Ordination ORdination is the Act of a Presbytery 1 Tim. 4. 14. Neglect not the gift that is in thee which was given thee by prophesie with the laying on of the hands of the Presbytery The power of ordering the whole work of Ordination is in the whole Presbytery which when it is over more Congregations then one whether those Congregations be fixed or not fixed in regard of Officers or Members it is indifferent as to the point of Ordination 1 Tim. 4. 14. Neglect not the gift that is in thee which was given thee by prophesie with the laying on of the hands of the Presbytery It is very requisite that no single Congregation that can conveniently associate do assume to it self all and sole power in Ordination 1. Because there is no Example in Scripture that any single Congregation which might conveniently associate did assume to it self all and sole power Ordination neither is there any rule which may warrant such a practise 2. Because there is in Scripture Example of an Ordination in a Presbytery over divers Congregations as in the Church of Jerusalem where were many Congregations these many Congregations were under one Presbytery and this Presbytery did ordain The Preaching Presbyters orderly associated either in Cities or neighbouring Villages are those to whom the imposition of hands doth appertain for those Congregations within their bounds respectively To the Right Honourable THE LORDS
world to come Cat. 14. R. Reading the Scripture a part of Religious Worship Con. 80. Rules for Reading the Scriptures Cat. 122 123. Redemption how wrought by Christ Con. 33. The vertue of it and efficacy from the beginning of the world Con. 34. Redemption how applyed and to whom Con. 34 35. Cat. 30. Repentance unto life what Con. 50. Repentance not satisfactory for sin nor cause of pardon Con. 51. Yet no pardon without Repentance nor Condemnation where it is Con. 52. A particular Repentance required of all for particular sins Con. 52. When Repentance is necessary to be testified to others Con. 53. Reprobation the Nature of it Con. 13 14. Resurrection of the Just and Unjust the manner of it Con. 116. Cat. 49. Righteous See Beleevers Righteousnesse of Justification See Justification Righteousnesse of Sanctification See Sanctification S. Sabbath to be kept Con. 83. And that the first day of the week Cat. 78. Con. 83. What it is to keep the Sabbath aright Con. 83 84 Cat. 79. How the Sabbath is profaned Cat. 80 81. Sacraments the nature ends of them Con. 112. Cat. 127. The parts of them Cat. 128. They conferre not grace by any power in themselves Con. 103. Upon what the efficacy of Sacraments depends ibid. Sacraments to be dispensed only by the Ministers of the Word Con. 103. The Sacraments of the Old and New Testament the same for substance Con. 104. How the Sacraments are made effectuall to salvation Cat. 126. The Sacrament of Baptisme and the Lords Supper wherein they agree Cat. 138 139. Wherein they differ Cat. 139 140. Sacrament of Baptisme See Baptisme Sacrament of the Lords Supper See Supper Saints See Bâ—leevers Saints not to be worshipped Con. 78. Salvation not to be attain'd by living up to the Light of Nature nor by any other but the Christian Religion Con. 40. Cat. 31. Salvation in Christ alone Cat. 31. No larger then Election Con 40. Cat. 35. What required of us in order to salvation Cat. 119. The outward meanes of salvation ibid. Sanctification what Con. 46 47. Cat. 40 41. Universall but imperfect in this life Con. 47. The reason why Sanctification is imperfect here Cat. 43. How Sanctification differs from Justification Cat. 42. Scandalous not to be admitted to the Lords Supper Cat. 135. Scriptures why necessary Con 2 What Books to be owned for Scripture ibid. Scripture the only Rule of Faith and Obedience Con 3. Cat. 2. The only Rule of Worship Con. 77 78. Upon what Authority the Scriptures are to be received and obeyed Con. 4. Scriptures how proved to be the Word of God Con. 4. Cat. 2 3. How we are fully assured of it Con. 4. Cat. 3. Of the Scriptures Sufficiency Perfection and Perspicuity Con. 5. What necessary to the saving understanding of the Scriptures Con. 5. The Originall Text of Scripture the Authenticall Con. 6. The Scripture ought to be Translated Con. 6. Cat. 122. and read by all Cat. 121. The infallible Rule of interpreting Scripture Con. 6. The Spirit speaking in Scripture the Supreme Judge of all Controversies in Religion Con. 7. Scripture how to be read Cat. 122 123. Sin what Cat 12. The guilt of it Con. 24. Sin how the object of Gods providence Con. 18 19 20 21. God not the Authour nor Approver of Sin Con. 19. Why God suffers his children to fall into Sin Con. 20. Originall Sin See Originall Actuall Sin See Actuall Sin how punisht in this world Cat. 13 14. How in the world to come Cat. 14. Sins when to be confessed to men Con. 53. Sin not pardoned without Repentance Con. 52. The greatest Sin cannot damn men if they truly Repent ib All Sins not equally hainous Cat. 111. The demerit of every Sin Cat. 118. Sins against the First CoÌ„mandment Cat. 62 c. against the Second Cat. 68 c. against the Third Cat. 73 c. against the Fourth Cat. 80 c. against the Fifth Cat. 87 89 90. against the Sixth Cat 94 c. against the Seventh Cat 97 c. against the Eighth Cat. 101 c. against the Ninth Cat. 105 c. against the Tenth Cat. 110 c. Aggravations of Sin under severall Heads See Aggravatâ—ons Singing of Psalms a part of Religious Worship Con. 80. Soule 's state after Death Con. 115. The Spirit 's illumination necessary to the saving understanding of the Scripture Con. 5. The Spirit speaking in the Scripture the supreme Judge of Controversies Con. 7. Supererogation impossible Con. 56. Superiours how to be honoured Cat. 85 86. How to carry themselves toward their Inferiours Cat. 87 88. Supper of the Lord the Institution Nature and ends of it Con. 107. Cat. 131. Christ not offered up to his Father in the Supper nor any reall sacrifice for sin made Con. 107. The Ministers duty in administring it Con. 108. Not to be received alone ibid. To be received in both kinds ibid. The Elements in the Supper not to be adored ibid. What relation the Elements in the Supper have to Christ Con. 109. How Christ is present in the Supper Con. 110. Cat. 132. How beleevers feed upon Christ in the Supper Con. 109 110. Cat. 132. Ignorant and scandalous not to be admitted to the Supper Con. 110. Cat. 135. What preparation required before receiving the Lord's Supper Cat. 133. What duties requiâ—ed in time of receiving Cat. 136 137. What duties after receiving Cat. 137 138. The Agreement and difference between the Lords Supper and Baptisme Cat. 138 139 140. Suspension from the Lords Supper Con. 112. Swearing See Oath Synods may be called by the Civil Magistrate Con. 90. 113. In what cases Ministers may meet in a Synod without the Call of the Civil Magistrate Con. 113. What power belongs to Synods and Councils Con. 114 What submission due to their Decrees and Determinations ibid. Synods not infallible since the Apostles dayes Con. 114. How far Synods may meddle in State-affaires ibid. T. Temptation how to be prayd against Cat. 152 153 154 Testament Old and New Con. 27 28. Thanksgiving the duty of every man Con. 78. What Toleration Christian Liberty is no friend to Con. 74 75. Transubstantiation an absurd fiction Con. 109. Of the Trinity Con. 10. Cat. 5. The Coëquality of the Persons in Trinity proved Cat. 5 6. V. Vocation See Calling Vowes a part of Religious Worship Con. 81. A Vow what how and to whom to be made Con. 87. What Vowes are unlawfull Con. 88. Union of the two Natures in Christ Con. 31 32. Union of the Elect with Christ what Cat. 34. Unregenerate men's best works sinfull Con. 57 58. W. War may be waged by Christians under the New Testament Con. 89. Wicked men's condition in Judgement and after Judgement Cat. 50. The Will of God how to be done and submitted to Cat. 149. The Will of Man renewed in Effectuall Calling Cat. 35. Free Will what Con. 35. Free Will to good in the state of Innocency Con. 36. Wholly lost by the Fall ibid. Restored in part by Regeneration Con. 36 37. Perfectly and immutably in the state of Glory only Con. 37. Word of God what Cat. 2. The Word how made effectuall to salvation Cat. 119 120. To be read by all Cat. 121 122. How to be read Cat. 122 123. How to be preached Cat. 124 125. How to be heard Cat. 125 126. Works not the cause of Justification Con. 41 Cat. 39. What are Good Works and what not Con. 53 54. The excellent uses and ends of Good Works ibid. Ability to do Good Works is wholly from Gods Spirit Con. 55. The actuall influence of the Spirit required to the performing of every Good Work Con. 55. Yet this no plea at all for negligence ibid. Good Works neither merit nor satisfie and why Con. 56. Yet they are accepted by God in Christ and rewarded Con. 57. The best Works of the Unregenerate sinfull and why Con. 57 58. Yet the neglect of the more sinfull ibid. Worship to be given to God alone Con. 78. And that through Christ ibid. The Worship that is acceptable to God is instituted by himself and not left to the Devices of men Con. 77 78. The parts of Religious Worship Con. 80 81. Religions Worship not tyed now to any place Con. 81. God to be Worshipped in private and in publick Con. 81 82. FINIS