will of God then must we seeke to learne the same and vse all the meanes to come vnto the knowledge thereof Rom. 12.1 2. Eph. 5.17 1. Thes 4.1 Question Now let vs come to the second parte of the praier and see what we are to learne out of the first petition therein Giue vs this day our daily bread Answere First what daily bread dooth signifie namely all things needfull for this life Gene. 3.9 2. Reg. 22.23 Psal 104.14 15. Secondly who must giue vs the same namely God Matth. 6.32.33 Psal 127.1.2 3. and 128.1 2 3 4. Thirdly that God onely must blesse all our labors that wee may receaue profit thereof Deut. 28. Pro. 3.7 8 9 10. 2. Thes 3.8.12 Fourthly we must be contented with that which God giueth vs and bee thankfull for the same though neuer so small and simple Phil. 4.11 12. 1. Timo. 6.6 7 8 9 10. Fifthly in that we must praie for the good estate and preseruation of our brethren and that all that is theirs may prosper it teacheth vs not to spoile them of any thing that is theirs nor to hurt the same 1. Timo. 4.4 Iohn 6.11 1. Thes 4.6 Pro. 3.27 28. Question How many things learne you in the fift petition forgiue vs our trespasses as wee forgiue them that trespasse against vs Answere First how all men are sinners and none free from sinne but all doo breake the lawe of God both in thought word and deed Pro. 20.9 and 24.16 1. Iohn 1.8 Secōdly how we haue need therfore to seek continuallie for pardon at the hands of God who onely doth pardon and that thorough Christs death and bloud Psal 32.5 51.1 to 7. Thirdly this teacheth that man cannot by his merits satisfie Gods wrath insomuch as he must seeke forgiuenes Esay 64.6 Psalm 130.3 4. and 143.2 Fourthly it sheweth that we must both forgiue and forget if wee will haue our sinnes both forgiuen and forgotten of God Gene. 50.21 Col. 3.13 Mat. 6.14 15. Mat. 18.35 Question What learne you in the sixt and last petition And lead vs not into temptation but deliuer vs from euill Answere First that although God dooth trie our faith and obedience by satan and his euill suggestions yet that he would assist vs with his spirit of strength and holines that we neuer be ouercome of them Ephe. 6.12 to 19. 1. Peter 5.8 Reuel 12.8 9 10. Secondly it sheweth how Christians are at warre with a cruell Lion a subtill serpent and a continuall accuser therefore not to sleepe in securitie 1. Pet. 5.8 Reuel 12.8 9 10 11 12. Thirdly how wee must ouercome not in our strength and wisdome for they are our enemies and friends to the diuell but onelie by the armor of God and strength of Christ Rom. 8.7 1. Cor. 1.20 Ephe. 6.10.11 12 13 14. 1. Cor. 5.55 to 58. Cor. 1.11 1. Ioh. 5.4 Fourthly the diuell can doo nothing without God giue leaue and that God wil tempt his children no farther than he wil strengthen and deliuer them 1. Cor. 10.13 Psal 34.18 19. Iob. 1.12 1. Sam. 16 14. Matth. 8.31 Acts. 16.18 Fifthly what it is to be giuen ouer to temtation and euill that is when GOD giueth man ouer vnto himselfe and punisheth sinne with sinne and hardnes with hardnes of heart Acts. 28.25 26. Matth. 13.14 Ro. 1.24 Rom. 9.17 18 1. Reg. 22.21 22 23. Question What learne you in the conclusion For thine is thy kingdome the power and the glorie for euer and euer Amen Answere First ernestly to seeke after the glory of god Matth. 6.33 1. Chro. 29.9 10. Ro. 11.36 Secondly we may assure our selues that God will graunt vs our godly desires for all power and glorie is his and cannot be taken from him Psal 50.15 Thirdly that his kingdome shall neuer cease but remaine euerlasting and glorious 2. Chro. 29.11 12 13. Deu. 4.31 Luk. 1.33 Fourthly that by this worde Amen wee are taught with what godly mind and feruent zeale we should praie and with what assurance to haue our praiers granted 1. Timo. 1.17 Reuel 7.12 Question What are the spirituall benefits and graces that belong to the Church of Christ Answere They are these three chiefely First the forgiuenes of sinnes Secondly the resurrection of the bodie Thirdly life euerlasting Question Rehearse the tenth article Answere The forgiuenes of sinnes Question What is forgiuenes of sinnes Answere A full remoouing of the guiltines and the punishment of our sinnes by the death and bloud of Christ which is our reconciling vnto God Rom. 3.24 Ephe. 1.7 Col. 1.12 13.14 Question What is reconciliation with God Answere It is a perfect restoring vnto the fauor of God through the obedience of our only mediator Iesus Christ 2. Cor. 5.19 20 21. Titus 2.14 Question What learne you out of this Article Answere First that we are all vile sinners and therefore neede to séeke for pardon Matth. 18.24 Iob. 14.4 1. Iohn 1.8 Secondly that the remission of sinnes comes only by the suffrings of Christ 1. Pe. 1.18 19 20 21. Matth. 26.26 27. Thirdly that our sinnes being freelie forgiuen shall bee no more laid to our charges to condemne vs for Christ hath both died for vs and iustified vs. Rom. 8.32 33 34. Iere. 31.34 Heb. 10.16 17 18 19 20. Question What learne you in the eleuenth article the resurrection of the bodie Answere First that our mortall bodies that are consumed either in the earth vppon the earth or in the sea shall arrise againe at the last day of iudgement according to the prophesies and the word of God Esay 26.19 20 21. Dan. 12.2 3. Iohn 5.28 Secondly that the resurrection of our bodies comes by the benefit we haue of Christs resurrection and the power of God 2. Cor. 4.14 Phil. 3.20 1. Cor. 15. Thirdly that our bodies shall arise glorious and immortall Phil. 3.20 21. Question What learne you in the twelft article And life euerlasting Answere First that all the faithfull shall haue euerlasting life Matth. 25.46 Iohn 14. Iohn 17. Secondly that eternall life is the free gift of God Rom. 8.23 Matth. 25.24 Thirdly by whome that is onely through faith in Christ Iohn 6.47 Pet. 1.4 5 6 7 8 9. c. Question Why is there no mention made in the articles of our faith of the resurrection of the wicked with their punishment of bodie and soule in hell fier euerlastingly Answere Because this summe of faith respecteth onelie the benefits of faith belonging to the faithful in Iesus Christ Question Why Shall not the wicked rise and be punished euerlastinglie Answere Yes verily their bodies shall arise and bee ioyned to their soules and so punished in hel fier for euermore Actes 24.15 Iohn 5.28 29. 2. Thes 1.8 Reuel 20.8 Question Now for good works tell me can wee not merit Heauen of our selues by our owne good works Answere No verely for so to think were first to denie the grace of God Ephe. 2.8 Secondly to say that Christ died in vaine and so no sauiour Gal.
Eph. 5.14 17. That we being filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisedome and spirituall vnderstanding may walke worthie of the Lord and please him in all things beeing fruitful in all good works Col. 1.9 10. And that this knowledge faith and fruitfulnesse in all good workes may abound in vs as the elect deer childrē of God let vs diligētly read the book of god cōtinually meditate on the same for the Prophet saith Blessed is the man that doth not walke in the counsell of the wicked nor stand in the way of sinners nor sit in the seate of the scorneful but his delight is in the Lawe of the Lord and in his Lawe doth he meditate day night for he shall be like a tree planted by the riuers of waters that wil bring foorth her fruite in due season whose leafe shall not fade so whatsoeuer he shall do shall prosper Psal 1.1.2 3. Now for the common benefit and better instruction of Gods people and thy selfe christian reader J haue caused this little and short treatise of christian points of religion to be printed and published and although it bee but small in volume yet I doubt not but if it be well read and printed in minde it shall minister great good to further thy knowledge to confirm thy faith and to increase true holines in thee And this I dare promise thee that there are some things handled in this Catechisme both in matter and manner which other Catechismes dooth not as once meddle and intreate of and other things which are intreated of some in their bookes haue J drawne in a briefe method for the benifit of the reader And whereas many things are yet in doubt among the multitude and great controuersies doo rise by them I haue breefely yet soundly opened the trueth of them finally there is not that point which I haue intreated of but I haue first defined the same and haue set downe the definitions of all the hardest words which are commonly vsed by the preachers of the word and in the large and great volumes of the learned that the simple who is altogether ignorant of the true sense of them may vnderstand not onely the Preacher and bookes which they both heare and read but also the verie words as iustification sanctification grace redemption law and such like Therefore seeing my purpose is onely to doo good vnto Gods Church and my paine great herein yet godly I hope all faithfull people will accept the same and both praise God for this litle worke and pray vnto God for mee to increase his good gifts and graces in my soule vnto my liues end Amen Thus I take my leaue from my house at Kingswood the second of September Thine in the Lord Richard Saintbarb Preacher of Gods word Certaine points of Christian Religion Question INto what faith wert thou baptised Answere Into the faith of the holie Trinitie Matth. 28.19 Question What doost thou meane when thou saiest thou art baptised into the faith of the holie Trinitie Answere It is to enter and consecrate the baptised into the faith and religion of one God First that they might beleeue the Father the Sonne and the Holie ghost to bee one God to whom alone they must giue their faith and confidence Psal 37.5 Iere. 17.5 6 7 8. Iohn 14.1 Secondly that they beleeue that the sonne and the holie ghost are nothing els but the verie essence of God 1. Iohn 5.7 Thirdly that they confesse God the Father who hath adopted them God the sonne by whome they are redeemed and God the holie Ghost by whome they are sanctified confirmed Gala. 4.4 5 6. 1. Corinthians 6.10 11. Question Where shall wee finde the summe of this faith of the holie Trinitie Answere First generallie at large in the holie Scriptures which is called the Booke of God Secondly particularlie and briefely in the Articles of the Faith called the Apostles Creede Question Why is it so called Answere For two apt causes First Because it is a briefe collection of the Articles of the Faith which haue been alwaies in Christs Church Secondly because it was taken out of the pure doctrine of the Apostles Question Why must euerie christian say I beleeue not We beleeue as well as they generally do say Our Father which art c. Answere First because euerie Christian must be saued by his owne faith and not by an others Secondly wheras we say Our Father we must note that it is a prayer and the other the beleefe of euerie Christian and therefore a plaine and great difference Haba 2.4 Ga. 3.11 Heb. 10.38 39. Question Why must we beleeue that there is a Church not in the Church as in God the Father c Answere It were great idolatrie to put our trust in meere man for Faith onely belongeth to the holy Trinitie and although Iesus Christ who is saluation it selfe is no where to be found but in the Church yet Saluation is not of the Church and therefore Ieremie accurseth them that put anie confidence in the flesh of sinfull man Iohn 17.1 2 3. Matth. 28.19 Ierem. 17.5 6. Esay 30.1 2 3 4. and 31.1 2 3 4. Question Into how manie points shall we diuide this confession of our faith Answere Into 3. The first concerning God the Father in the first Article The second concerning God the Sonne in the sixe next Articles The third concerning God the holy Ghost in the fiue last Articles Question How manie things learn you in the first article I beleeue in God the father Almightie c. Answere First what God is Secondly how he created all things Thirdly how he preserueth all his workes Fourthlie how he ruleth and gouerneth all things Question What is God Answere God is a spirite infinite euerlasting vnchaungeable incorruptible immortall most simple in nature in power most mightie incomprehensible both in greatnesse and Maiestie by whom all things were made in the beginning of nothing also distinguished into thrée persons the Father the Sonne and the holie Ghost Iohn 4.24 Esay 66.1 2. Esay 40.28 Mal. 3.6 Iam. 1.17 Rom. 1.23 2. Tim. 1.17 Gen. 17.1 Rom. 11.33 34 35 36. Ier. 10.10 11 12 13. Matth. 28.19 Reuel 15.3 4. Question What is God the Father Answere Hee is the beginning and Authour of euerie thing both in heauen and in earth Who when it séemed good vnto his diuine Nature created all things of nothing in heauen and in earth both spirituall and corporall and ordered them by his eternall Sonne the which are now gouerned and mainteined by the infinite and consubstantiall power of the Holie Ghost proceeding from them both from all eternitie Gen. 1.1 2 c. Gene. 2.1 Prouerb 8.14 to the end Psalme 114.30 Gene. 1.2 Iohn 15.26 Roman 8.9 Question What is the Sonne Answere The Sonne of God is Iesus Christ who was begotten of his Father before all worlds and of his Father without a mother by whom all things were created who being appointed of
2.21 Thirdly it fighteth against faith Ga. 2.16 Question Yea but the Apostle saith God will reward euerie man according to his workes Ro. 2. Answere It is true God promiseth rewards for good deedes not for the worthines of them but for the grace wherewith God dooth imbrace the beleeuers and doth crowne his own gifts in them also to incourage vs to walke obediently and fruitefullie in all holines before him and his people Matth. 25.33 c. Rom. 2.6 7. Question The Apostle S. Paul biddeth vs to worke out our saluation with feare and trembling Phil. 2.22 Answere The same Apostle on the other side telleth vs that saluation faith and good works are the free gifts of God Ephe. 2.10 Titus 3.4 5. Question Why then dooth hee bid vs doo the same if we haue not power to doo it Answere The Apostle in these words seeketh to take away all careles securitie from Christians and least that Christians shoulde take too much vpon them he setteth downe in the next verse following that God must worke both the wil and deede and that of his owne good pleasure without merit withal in these words he ministreth a comfort to his people in shewing them where they may haue a remedy to helpe their weaknes and inhabilitie Phil. 2.13 Question If our sinnes deserue eternal death then our good works deserue eternall life Answere This is no good conclusion for if a man should reason thus This man can kill himself therefore he can giue himselfe life may we not thinke him madde But this obiection Paul the Apostle answereth thus The wages of sinne is death but the gift of GOD is eternall life through Iesus Christ our Lord withal al good gifts proceed frō God euil things from vs. Euill things are perfectlie euill our good works are imperfect and maimed The reward of the best of which is death Ro. 6.23 1. Cor. 13.9 Question What then doo you conclude Answere First that eternall life is the free gift of God by his mercies Eph. 2.8 Ti. 3.3 5. Ro. 6.23 Secondly that by Christs death and obedience we purchase it Ro. 5.6 to the end Thirdly by faith as the instrument to apprehend the same Iohn 3.16 Gal. 2.16 Fourthly that we must glorifie God in all good works for our saluation Matth. 5.16 1. Pet. 2.12 ¶ A Praier before Catechising O Gratious GOD and deare Father we most humbly and earnestly intreate thee for thy infinit mercies sake in thy beloued and onely sonne Iesus Christ our free redeemer and sauiour that thou wouldest blesse this thy worke commanded and deliuered vnto vs thy poore and miserable seruants in thy holy word make the same profitable vnto vs that wee may bee fruitful in al knowledge strong in faith and sanctified in our life and conuersation that thereby thy name may by vs bee glorified thy children comforted and our soules and bodies in Iesus Christ saued graunt vs these things O mercifull father for Christs sake Amen A Praier after Catechising O Good God and louing father who art full of mercie vnto the sinfull sonnes of men and most gratious vnto thy elect people which thou hast chosen freely in Christ Iesus we thank thee in that thou hast drawne vs out of ignorance and blindnes and called vs vnto the vnspeakeable light and excellent knowledge of thy self as a deare and rich father in Iesus Christ our redeemer wee beseech thee increase our knowledge more and more and make our hearts which are by nature stony and hard so soft and pliable both to heare receiue obey thy waies in all reuerence and faithfulnes vnto our liues ende that we may praise thy euerlasting mercies in Iesus Christ Amen A Praier before meales THE Lorde bee thanked and giue vs grace to be thankefull the Lord bee mercifull vnto vs and forgiue vs our sinnes the Lord sanctifie these his good creatures for our vses and sanctifie vs vnto his holy Maiestie through a liuely and pure faith in Iesus Christ our onely sauiour Amen A thankesgiuing after meales TO thee O good God who hath created vs by thy wisdome and power redeemed vs when we were lost by thy rich mercie and sanctified vs when wee were poluted and defiled in sinne by thy free holines and hast presently fed vs by thy plentifull and vnspeakeable goodnes bee all honour glorie and power in Iesus Christ Amen ⧠Faultes escaped in the Printing Fol. 9. a line 12. where read were Fol. 11. a. line 9. not onely Angels read not Angels Fol. 47. b. line 19. ought to tie read ought not to tie Fol. 59. a. line 20. brought read bought FINIS
place neither subiect to change Rom. 1.23 1. Tim. 6.16 Psal 139.7 to 14. Esay 46.10 Iam. 1.17 Deut. 32.4 Psal 5.4 Question Now shew me what is a person Answere A Person is a subsistance in the Essence of God which being referred vnto the rest is distinguished by a certaine incommunicable propertie or which is not common to the other Question Then a subsistance is another thing than an essence Answere It is true for if the Word were simply God and had nothing proper seuerally to it self then had the holie Euangelist Iohn said ill when he said The Word which he afterwards calleth God was with God Iohn 1.2 3. Question What is the vse of this deepe mysterie Answere We are taught hereby First how we ought in all diuine wisedome and godlie humilitie to reuerence this deepe and holie mysterie of the Trinitie the Father the Sonne and the Holie Ghost and yet but one God in being and glorie contrarie to the opinion of Sabellius Secondly how Christ was both God man First God from euerlasting and begotten of his Father before all times contrarie to the heresie of Arius Iohn 1.1 2. Micah 5.2 Reuel 22.13 Secondly Man when the fâ—â—nes of time was come by taking flesh of the Virgine Marie not bringing the same froÌ„ heauen from the Father so afterward swallowed vp of the Father became al one with him as Marcellus the heretike affirmed also renewed by the Anabaptists Rom. 1.3 4. Gal. 4.4 Heb. 2.16 Thirdly that the holy Ghost is God with the Father and the Sonne of the same beeing and glorie from all eternities Gene. 1.2 Esay 48.16 Math. 12.32 2. Cor. 5.19 contrary to the heresie of the Macedonians who denied the Diuinitie of the holie Ghost Fourthly it teacheth vs to praie vnto Almightie God and search after true wisedom and vnderstanding that we may both be led into the true mysterie and auoide al heresies herein Matth. 7.7 Question Nowe let vs proceede vnto the seconde point of the diuision namely of the creation of the world tell me what order wilt thou obserue herein Answere This first of creation generallie Secondly of creation particularlie Question Let vs then come to the first was the world without beginning Answere No for it was created although the philosophers did dream the coÌ„trarie Gen. 1.1 2. 2.2 Question Who created the same Answere Almightie God by his wisedome and power Gen. 2.1 2 3 4. Iohn 1.1 2 3 4. Prouerb 8. Question What is creation Answere Creation is that action of God whereby hée created and made of nothing all thinges both Heauen and earth and whatsoeuer is conteined in them when that there was none of them Gen. 1.12 Psal 33.6 Iere. 10. Acts. 14.15 Iohn 1.1 2 3. Question Were they created such as they bee now Or in what estate where they created at the first Answere Touching their nature it is all one but the qualities and conditions of them are merueilouslie altered and changed for whereas now we see them subiect to vanitie they were not so then but created verie good and perfect for that the worke did sufficientlie preach and set foorth the glorie and cunning of the worke man as it is plainelie set downe in the booke of Genesis thus The Lord sawe all that he had made and it was very good Gen. 1.31 Question How came this ruine and confusion to the creatures which were created perfect by God Answere Onely by the Apostacie and fall of man who was appointed of God to be Lorde and ruler ouer the whole world and all the creatures thereof Gene. 3.17.18 Rom. 8.20 Question Were all creatures that are now mouing and growing vpon the earth then made Answere No for God in his iustice to punish the fall and apostacie of Adam and mankinde yet iust good in God did cause the earth to bring forth thorough corruption many noisome and corrupt creatures since the sixe dayes which were not created at the first for it is saide that all the works of God were very good Gen. 1.31 Question How proouest thou that such noisome creatures were created after the fall of man and for his punishment Answere By the words of GOD which the holy seruant of God Moses rehearseth in Gene. 3.17 18. Cursed be the earth for thy sake thornes also and thistles shall it cause to growe vnto thee c. â—o that whatsoeuer corrupt things doo growe and proceede from corruption they are not the natural fruits of the earth as reckned in the order of nature but corruptions and of corruptions which haue their originall of sinne as lice fleas flies frogges toades catterpillers grashoppers spiders briers thistles and such like noysome and hurtfull creatures Question Shall the heauens and the earth be consumed because the Elements the Ayre and the earth are corrupted by corruption in their substances at the day of Iudgement and so a new heauen and a new earth created Answere No but they shall bee renewed and purged from their corruptions which the sinne of man brought into the world Question Yea but it is written by S. Iohn that GOD will make a new Heauen and a new earth and that the first Heauen and earth shall fleete away from before him and their place shall bee no more founde Reuel 20.11 12. Answere Saint Iohns meaning is not that there shoulde bee a newe Heauen and a newe earth in respect of new and other substances then they were before but when Christ shall appeare hée shall chase away and purge all the corruptions of the Elements and the earth with his purging and pure fire Heb. 1.11 2. Pet. 3.12 13. Question What other proofe haue you for this thing Answere This the holie Ghost will not bee against himselfe for he sheweth by his Apostle that the heauens and the earth shall be restored and purged from all corruption but yet in their substances to remaine Roma 8.19 to 23. Actes 3.21 Question Rehearse the words of the first place Answere For the feruent desire of the creature saith the Apostle Paule waiteth when the sonnes of God shall be reuealed because the creature is subiect to vanitie not of it owne will but of him which hath subdued it vnder hope because the creatures also shall be deliuered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious libertie of the sonnes of God for wee knowe that euerie creature groneth with vs also and traueleth in paine together vnto this present and not onlie the creature but we also Rom. 8.19 20 21 22 23. Question What gatherest thou out of these words Answere First by this word Creature is ment all creatures that liue mooue and growe vpon in or vnder the earth both senceles and sensible liuing and without life and not onely Angels men or diuels and therefore the Apostle saith euerie Creature Secondly the Apostle saieth that they waight for the glorious libertie of the sonnes of God that they also might be not destroyed but deliuered from the bondage of coruption Thirdly
hee saieth that they are subdued vnder hope namelie of restoration to that excellent estate that they had by creation Question Proceede to your second place of proofe Answere Whome the Heauens must conteine vntill the time that all things bee restored which God had spoke by the mouth of all the holy Prophets since the world began Actes 3.21 Question What gather you by these words Answere That al things shal be restored to an excellent perfection and therfore S. Peter calleth the day of Iudgement the day of restoring of al things which could not be attributed vnto that day vnlesse that there should be a restoration of them Question To what end or what vses shall they serue after the day of Iudgement Answere That is a wicked curiositie to search after those things which God hath not reuealed vnto vs let vs therefore say with Moses The secret things belong vnto the Lord our GOD and the things reuealed vnto vs and our children for euer that we may doo all the words of this Lawe Deu. 29.29 and so auoide likewise such vaine questions as these whether they shall be perpetuall or not perpetuall for vses or not for vses for they breed but strife and meere babling 1. Tim. 1.4 5 6 7. Titus 3.9 Question What is the vse of this point Answere First how all things were created of God most perfect and good at the first and he therfore holy and iust in his works Psalm 145.10 11. Deut. 32.4 Secondly how our sinne was the ruine and confusion of the perfection and excellencie of the creatures in their first creation so that hereby we may see how horrible and filthie a thing sinne is and therefore so much the more to hate the same Gene. 4.11 12. Ephe. 2.2 3. Col. 3.1 2 3 4. Thirdly the iustice of GOD in punishing sin and therfore we ought to kil and flie from the same as the only enemy of our health and saluation Psal 5.4 5 6. Co. 3.5 6. Ro. 6.23 Fourthly how all things in Christ shall bee restored to health and the former excellencie but man to a greater excellencie and more perfect happines than at the first Rom. 8.14 to 26. Question As wee haue hetherto intreated generallie of the creation of the world with all things therein so now more particularlie let vs come to the making and creating of man the which is the second point and tell me what order thou wilt keepe herein Answere First who made man Secondly whereof he consisteth Thirdly of his excellencie in his first creation Fourthly of his fall Fiftly how wee come to the knowledge thereof and our sinnes Sixtly of the vses of the lawe and good workes Question Who made man Answere God Question What things may we consider in God in the creation of man Answere First his wisdome Psalm 104.24 Secondly his power Thirdly his goodnes Psalm 8. Question Let vs come to the second thing What is man and whereof dooth he consist Answere Man is an excellent and reasonable creature created after the image of God his creator consisting of two partes Gene. 1.26 27. First a soule Gene. 2.7 Second a bodie Eccle. 12.7 Question What is the bodie Answere A wonderfull Creature of the workemanship of God framed out of the dust of the earth and of a notable proportion in euerie parte made vpright to looke vpward alwaies to God his maker Gene. 3.19 Question Although the bodie bee of the dust of the earth is it not yet more excellent than all other creatures that were made of the earth Answere Yes verelie and that first in respect of the time of his creation Secondly of the forme of his creation Thirdly of the end of his creation Fourthly of the person of the Sonne Question 1 How in the time of his creation Answere When the Lorde made man hee first tooke counsell of his wisdome and power and deliberated on the matter but when he made all other creatures before hee made man hee saide let it be done and it was done presentlie not taking such deliberation on their Creation although his wisdome power and glorie may bée seene in them Gen. 1.26 Roma 1.20 21. and 11.36 Question 2 How informe of his creation Answere God made all other creatures to go groueling on the earth and to looke downeward but he made man a streight bodie to go vpright and alway to looke vp into Heauen and so to consider of his Creator also he hath planted a certaine Maiestie in the face of man to the terror of all other creatures Gene. 1.28 29. Question 3 How in the end of his creation Answere First in glorifying GOD in holy words and also in good workes Ephesians 4.29 30. Matth. 5.16 Secondly in respect of the redemption of the bodie thorough Christ to be the childe of God and heire of eternall life and saluation Ro. 18.7 Thirdly to bee the temple of the holy Ghost 1. Cor. 3.16 and 6.19 Question 4. How in the person of the Sonne Answere In that Christ the sonne of God hath onely communicated with man in taking to himselfe mans nature Heb. 2.16 Rom. 1.3 Question What hath man to consider in that his body is made of the earth and aduanced to such glorie Answere First it beateth downe all pride Iere. 22.29 Secondly his brittlenes is shewed therin Isay 40.6 7 8. Iob. 14.1 2. Thirdly it teacheth man to consider his excellencie in Christ and not to defile in sinne and vncleanenes of life his bodie 1. Cor. 6.15 to the end 2. Cor. 6.14 to the end Question What is the soule Answere It is an immortall and spirituall substance created of GOD and infused into the bodie which quickneth and giueth life thereunto and of it selfe neuer dieth Eccle. 12.7 Iob. 10.12 Matth. 10.28 Reue. 6.9 10 11. Question What are the powers of the soule Answere Principallie two First reason Esay 29.9 1. Thes 5.23 Secondly will Heb. 4.12 Question Are they perfect in vs Answere No but most imperfect Gen. 6.5 Ier. 17.9 Matth. 15.19 20. Rom. 8.7 1. Cor. 2.24 Question Were they so created in vs Answere No but we got corruption by the fall of our first parents Adam and Eue. Gen. 3.1 2 3 4 5 6 7. 2. Cor. 11.3 Question Thou saiest that the soule is a spirituall substance but there are some that doo affirme it is but a motion other some to bee a vanishing breath Answere The Scripture teacheth the contrarie for First God is called the father of the spirits Heb. 12.9 Secondly Christ is called the pastour of soules 1. Pet. 2.25 Now if these sentences shal be applied to motions and a vanishing breath thereby to make God a Father and Christ a Pastour of a thing of naught it were most wicked and absurde Thirdly the soule is subiect to torments and capable of ioy in this world and in the life to come which things cannot be applied to motions and a vanishing breath Luk. 16.24 25. Fourthly it shoulde than followe so many motions and breathes seeing
euill thereupon Rom. 7.23 Gal. 5.17 Question What is the end of this commandement Answere Our good God who is most pure will haue the whole minde possessed with puritie and the affections of loue First vnto God himselfe Secondly to our brethren Thirdly that all lust which is contrarie to a true and pure loue must bee expelled out of our minde Matth. 22 37 38. Rom. 12.2 1. Thes 4.4 5 7. Question Now let vs come vnto the last point can we fulfill this holy and pure lawe of God Answere No verely and that because First our wisdome is both foolishnes and an enemie to the lawe of God Iere. 20.24 Rom. 8.7 Secondly because of the corruption of our nature which continuallie rebelleth against the lawe of God Romans 7.14 to the end Gal. 5.17 Thirdly because of our selues wee cannot think a good thought nor speake a good word much lesse doo good works 2. Cor. 3.4 5. Fourthly because that although we are regenerate and sanctified yet our faith is imperfect and subiect to sinne 1. Cor. 13.9.12 Question Seeing wee come to the knowledge of our sinnes by the lawe of God shall wee therefore reiect and cast away the same Answere God forbid for the lawe is good perfect and holy Question Wherefore then serueth the lawe and what is it Psal 19.7 8 9. Rom. 7.12 1. Timo. 1.8 Answere First it is a glasse to shewe vs both our sinnes and miseries thereby to pull downe our foolish pride Iam. 1.23 24 25. Rom 3.19 20. Secondly a schoolemaster to bring vs to Christ Gal. 3.24 Thirdly a rule of righteousnes to teach vs to liue well Psal 1.2 3. and 119.1 2 3 4 9. Pro. 2.10 to 20. Question Sith we cannot keepe the lawe and so not be iustified by the works of the lawe why should we do good works Answere First to testifie our loue and ready obedience vnto our good God and louing father Mal. 1.6 Iohn 14 21. 1. Pet. 1.14.17 Secondly to win our bretheren to Christ Iam. 5.19 20. 1. Pet. 2.12 Thirdly by them must wee stoppe the mouthes of the aduersaries of Christ and the trueth which are without Col. 4.5 6. 1. Pet. 4.14 15 16 17. Phil. 2.14 15 16. Fourthly by them we must make our election sure to our selues as the onely fruits of a liuely faith in Christ whereby wee are iustified and saued 2. Pet. 1.8 10. Phil. 2.12 13. Gal. 2.16.20 and 3.14 Fifthly by them we must comfort and nourish the poore and miserable people Matth. 25.34 35 36 c. Esay 58.7 Question How many things belong vnto good works Answere First they must be ruled by the liue of Gods word Deut. 4.2 Matth. 28.20 Secondly proceede from a true and sounde faith Rom. 14.23 Heb. 11.16 Thirdly be free from all hipocrisie vaine-glorie discerning and such like and onely be done to the glorie of God Matth. 6.1 2 3 4. Matth. 5.16 1. Pet. 2.12 Question Who must put good works in our hearts and frame vs there vnto Answere Onely God our Creator and Sauior for he it is that must giue vs First a right vnderstanding of his will 1. Cor. 2.12 13. Iam. 1.5 Secondly a true faith in his word and mercies in Christ Ephes 2.8 9 10. Iohn 6.29 Thirdly true humilitie zeale and power to set foorth his glorie Phil. 2.12 13. 2. Cor. 3.4 5. Question Let vs come to the third parte of this article namely how God preserueth the worlde with all his creatures and tell mee how doost thou prooue the same Answere The holy scripture assureth and teacheth me how that God onely with his mightie power in his diuine wisdome giueth life strength increase generation and continuance vnto his creatures and the huge masse of the earth otherwise they and it would soone come to destruction Gene. 1.1 2. Psal 104.29 30. Heb. 1.2 3. Gene. 1. the whole Question What haue wee to learne in this part Answere First the great power of God in vpholding and mainteyning all things Iere. 10.10 11 12 13. Secondly his vnspeakeable wisdome not onely in creating all things so excellently and beutifullie but also in that same wisdome hee keepeth and preserueth them Heb. 1.2 3. Thirdly his goodnes in doing those things for the sonnes of men Psalm 8. Question What is the vse of this doctrine Answere First a reuerent feare of his power Iere. 5.22 23 24. Secondly an admiration and praising the greatnesse of his wisedome Psal 104.24 Thirdly a true and continuall thankesgiuing for his mercies and a reuerent vsing of his creatures Psal 103.1 2 3 4. c. Rom. 11.36 1. Cor. 10.31 1. Tim. 4.1 2 3 4. Question Now let vs come to the last part to wit of Gods prouidence and tell me what it is Answere It is the foreknowledge eternall decree and appointment of the almightie wise and holie God of all the affaires and actions that should be done from the beginning of the worlde vnto the ende thereof either of good or euill as Angels men diuells or anie other creature whatsoeuer Question How prouest thou that God soreknoweth all things before they come to passe whatsoeuer he hath appointed shall come to passe Answere That he foreknoweth all things and whatsoeuer he hath appointed in his vnchaungeable decree to be done either in creation redemption saluation or gouernment these places of scripture most effectually doo proue Esa 7.14 Matt. 1.22 23. Mich. 5.2 Matt. 2.1.2 1. Pet. 2.19 20 21. 2. Ti. 1.9 2.19 act 19.48 Esay 46.10 Psal 239.15 16. Question How doost thou prooue that hee ruleth all things and all his creatures Answere That God doth rule al creatures is proued Psa 115.3 113.7 8 9. 147. 107. 104. Question What order wilt thou keepe in this point Answere First how he ruleth al the creatures in heauē Secondly all the creatures on earth Thirdly all punishments and plagues Fourthly all the Creatures in the seas Fiftly all the diuels and vncleane spirits Question Proceede to the first part Answere Those in heauen are First Angels Psal 81.11 12 13. Heb. 1.14 Secondly thunder 1. Sam. 12.18 Exo. 20.18 Thirdly Windes Num. 11.31 Iona. 1.4 Fourthly lightnings Ier. 10.13 Exo. 20.19 Fiftly raine Ier. 10 13. Psal 147.8 Sixtly Snow psal 147.16 and 148.8 Seuenthly haile Iosh 10.11 Eightly Sonne Moone and starres Iosh 10.12 13 14. Esa 38.8 Question Proceed to the second that God ruleth all the creatures vpon and in earth Answere Then to the mouing creatures as of one kind First al men generally Pro. 26.1 9 7. 20.24 Ier. 10.13 Psa 33.16 acts 17.28 Secondly particularly of good euil men as First in all good actions 1. Cor. 4.7 2. cor 3.4 5. Iam. 1.17 Ephe. 2.9 Genes 40.1 Secondly in their euill actions Iudg. 7.22 2. cron 20. Gen. 50.20 Thirdly more particularly as First Princes Psa 6.15.7.8 Pro. 8.15 Secondly Nobles and Senators Esa 3.1 2 3 4. Thirdly Iudges Pro. 8.16 Fourthly subiects 1. Sam. 10.26 Fiftly enemies Pro. 16.7 Sixtly Warres both to raise and cease
where and against whome it shall please them Answere No verely for it is the Lord onely that hath power of these things for they are in his treasure house and at his beck and commandement either to defend and preserue his people or to punish and destroy the wicked and reprobate Psal 104.4 Exod. 9.23 24 25 26. Question It is written in Iob that the deuill did cause Lightnings and raised vp winds Iob. 1.16 19. Answere It is true but it was Gods permission for when as God worketh by sathan and vseth his seruice the diuell worketh by the lightnings and windes and that by the iust iudgement of God to deceiue and harden the hearts of the people because they will not beleeue and receaue the truth also herein a notable crafte of satan may be seen in that he conueyeth himself into winds and tempests therby to make the world beléeue he is the author thereof otherwise God is the author of all windes tempest and lightnings as we haue already prooued 2. Thes 2.10.11.12 Question What saiest thou of the inchanters of Egipt which did great wonders merueilous things Answere If the sequell of their actions and their confessions be marked we shal see that neither they themselues nor their great master satan can do more than God doth giue them leaue Question Why what maketh thee so to say Answere The knowledge of these things that First they could not turne the dust into lice as Moses did but confessed that it was the power of God Exod. 8.17 18 19. Secondly they could not stand before Moses the seruant of God Thirdly whē they had done their false miracles in shewe they could not vndo them againe Ezod 7.21 to the end and 8 7 8. Fourthly neither could they vndo the true and powerfull miracles of Moses but Moses himself was faine with praier to vndo them Exod. 8.12 13. c. Question Why could not these inchāters turne the dust into lice as wel as to turn their rods into serpents the riuers into bloud and to bring forth froggs it being a base thing in comparison of the other Answere First in that they did the former things it was by permission of God to harden the heart of Pharao and to deceiue him with his people that they might not let Israell goe without the mightie hand of God to their own destruction Exod. 9.16 Rom. 9.17 Secondly that the power of God in their destruction might be made knowne and manifest vnto the whole world and his faithfulnes might be declared vnto all ages Gene. 15.13 14 15 16. Mica 5.3 4 5. Thirdly that God might after a while in suffering them to doo great miracles in shew confounde their wisdomes in base and vile things that the world might see the falsehood wickednes of inchanters sorcerers Mal. 3.5 Question What think you of this opiniō that the deuil inchanters haue no power vpon that bodie or substance which is lesse than a barley come Answere I think the same to be most vaine and cleane against reason for if they haue power ouer great things they haue also power ouer small things but not the contrarie as because they haue power ouer small things therefore they haue power ouer great things but in that they could not haue power ouer the dust to make lice it was because neither the diuell nor his instruments haue power of themselues to do any thing more than the will of God dooth permit and suffer Question In thy proofe of the definition of Gods prouidence thou saiest that God ruleth al the actions of men not onely the good but also the euill wherein what els doost thou But make God the author of euill which may not be Answere God forbid we should say that God were the author of sinne for there is no euill with him neither yet loueth he wickednes Psalm 5.4 for perfect is the worke of almightie God for al his waies are iudgement God is true without wickednes iust and righteous is he Deut. 42.4 Question Why then what dost thou meane when thou saiest that God ruleth the euil actions of men Answere We say that sathan and our flesh are the authors of sinne but yet on the other side wee affirme according to the Scriptures that euen sathan and the wicked are so bridled and ruled by the power and prouidence of God that they doo not nay cannot doo that euill when where and against whom they would for they all shal come to naught and to ruin but what the Lords will appointment is that cōmeth to passe whose will they execute in their wicked doings Iob. 1. Gene. 50.20 1. King 13.4 2. Sam. 17.14 23. Question Why then God is the author of their sinne and they without fault Answere Nay not so but he is most iust and perfect righteous and yet they wicked and vnholy in doing the same Question How so Answere By reason of the diuers ends and purposes Question As how Answere God doth it to set forth his glory to bring forth the malice of his enemies to shew it to all the world that he may be iustified in his righteous and holy iudgements vpon them also to exercise his children by them and such like but the wicked and sathan dooth the same of set malice wilfully presumptuously against God and his saints and not willingly and obediently to satisfie the counsell and purpose of God Question Canst thou giue mee examples out of the Scripture for this matter Where both GOD and the wicked haue delt in the same action so that God is said to haue done that which notwithstanding the wicked do Answere Yea verely as First of Iob who confesseth that his calamities come of the Lord yet Sathan the Sabaeans did worke in this action Iob. 1. Secondly Dauid who confessed that God stirred vp Shimei to curse him yet he did the same by the instigation of Sathan and of a malicious purpose 2. Sam. 16.10 11. Thirdly it is saide that God did stirre vp Dauid to number the people yet it is said in another place that Satan prouoked him 2. Sam. 24.1 1. Chro. 21.1 Fourthly it is said that God sent into the mouthes of the false prophets a lying spirit to deceiue Achab yet we may see both the willingnesse of Sathan to lie and deceiue also how the false prophets did most wilfully and stubbornly mainteine their lying prophecies 1. King 22.21 24. Question What saiest thou to the example of Christ in this thing Answere In this example we may see First how he gaue his son to death Ioh. 3.16 Secōdly how Christ did most willingly giue himselfe to death Ioh. 10.15 13.12 Phil. 2. Thirdly how Iudas his seruant betraied him for money Matth. 26.48 Fourthly how the Scribes Priests Pharisies most gladly gaue money and reioyced therein Luke 22.5 Fiftly how Pilate deliuered him to death for feare Iohn 19.12 13. Sixtly how satan sought the same brought it to passe by his instruments Iohn
13.27 30. Question Make this example more plaine Answere In it we may see the rich goodnes of God and of our Sauiour Iesus Christ of God in that hee spared not his onely Sonne of Iesus Christ in that he was content in his owne person to pay the ransome for the sinnes of his people but it was most wicked in the instruments for they committed a horrible fact in murthering an innocent man and in putting to death the Sonne of God Question But did they it not for the same ende that God did namely for the saluatiō of his people Answere No verely for as I saide before Iudas did the same for money the Scribes and Pharisies for enuie Pilate for feare of Caesar the Diuel to take away all hope of redemption and saluation also to bring the murtherers by his meanes into the wrath of God and so vpon them destruction therefore in either and euerie of them was it wicked and worthie of condemnation Question What doost thou conclude vpon this thing Answere That GOD in all his actions is most iust and cleere from sinne and that the wicked are most vniust although they doo nothing indéed but what God hath appointed them to doo neuerthelesse not to be excused therein Question If all things must come to passe as God hath before appointed is it not then in vaine to vse counsell labor praier or any other meanes Answere If they be called vain things because they can not procure things to fall out otherwise than God hath appointed decreed they are vain indeede but otherwise they are not vaine things but good meanes by which as instruments God bringeth his counsells and purposes to passe wherefore God doth command vs to vse them and thereby after a sort we are saide to be helpers to bring his certaine and euerlasting purpose to passe Question As how Answere Thus as God hath certainlie appointed vndoubtedly decreed how things should come to passe the time when and the place where so reseruing the end euent vnto his secret counsell which we may not search into he hath giuen vs meanes and also reason to vse them to bring things to passe which he hath commanded vs to vse leauing the issue and that which is secret vnto him wherefore not to doo them is to tempt God as too much to trust in them is to distrust God so that both of them not rightly performed is great wickednes against God Question What examples haue you for this in the holie Scriptures Answere Our Sauiour Christ although he was hungrie and tempted of Sathan yet would he not depende vppon the meane and vse vnlawfull meanes to distrust in God neither yet when he was vpon the pinacle being tempted of Satan to fall downe vnder the shewe of Gods prouidence yet would he not tempt God in neglecting the meanes to goe downe by the steps Ma. 4. And of this you may sée more in the booke of God how Moses Dauid and Paule vsed the meanes of praier labour and all other honest lawfull things to bring their matters to passe although they knew that al things wer wroght and came to passe by Gods prouidence Exod. 14.13 14 15. psal 3.5 6 8. 1. Sam. 19.11 12. Actes 27.22 23.24 25 30 31. Question What is the vse of this doctrine Answere First faith in God Psal 3.5 6 7 8 23. the whole psal 37.5 Secondly comfort 2. Kings 6.16 17. Acts. 27.24 25. Thirdly patience in all our troubles seeing God who is our Father sendeth afflictions for our comfort and will returne them to our good Rom. 5.3 4. psalm 37.7 Iam. 1.2 3 4. Fourthly we ought to vse all godly and honest meanes as Matth. 4. First praier for them Psal 50.14 15. Secondly labour to attaine them in time of want by industries Thirdly Phisicke in sicknesse Matth. 9.12 Esay 38.21 Fourthly flight in persecution Matth. 10.23 Fifthlie meate drinke and cloath during our pilgrimage Act. 27.33 34 35 36. Matth. 14.15 to 22. Sixtly we ought to tie God to them neither to depende on them as things of of necessitie Matth. 4. The end of the first part The second part of the Catechisme Question LEt vs come vnto the second part of our Catechisme and tell me what is the same Answere The redemption of mankinde Question What is redemption Answere It is our deliuerance in Iesus Christ from al the former euils of our fall as the power of sinne the curse of God and eternall death also a preparing for vs of an estate of happines more excellent than the first Galat. 3.13 14. Gal. 1.4 Titu 2.14 Rom. 8.17 Question How is Christ our redeemer Answere First by the ordinance of GOD his father Luke 1. Acts. 4.12 Secondly by affinity in taking vpō him our nature so to become our head elder brother Eph. 5.30 Heb. 2.16 17. Thirdly by right as First in that hee is Lorde of the whole world for all things were made and are ruled by him Iohn 1.2 3 4 5. Col. 1.16 17. Heb. 1.2 3. Secondly because he hath redéemed his people by his obediēce in shedding of his precious bloud Rom. 5.6 7 8 9. 1. pet 1.18 19 20. Question What things belong vnto Christ our Redeemer Answere Three things First perfect wise Secondly perfect rich Thirdly perfect strong Question Why perfect wise Answere First to bring to naught the craftie deuises of Sathan and his complices 1. Cor. 1.19 20 24 25. Secondly to make his people wise to saluation and to forsake al the subtilties of Sathan and his instruments in heresies and corrupt manners 2. Tim. 3.15.16 17. Question Why perfect rich Answere First to be of sufficient abilitie to redéeme his people and to pay the price of redemption the which he hath most fully and sufficiently alreadie done by his death and bloud Titus 2.14 col 1.11 12 13 14. Secondly to make his people rich in faith obedience and all other heauenly spirituall graces Ro. 1.8 1. cor 6.7 eph 1.3 col 1.9 Question Why of power Answere First to ouercome his enemies and the enemies of his people as satan sinne and eternall death 1. Cor. 15.54 55 56 57. Heb. 2.14 15. 1. Iohn 3.8 Secondly to deliuer his people from these their enemies and to giue them strength to ouercome Rom. 7.24 25. 1. cor 15. eph 6.12 to 18. 1. Iohn 5.4 5. Question Is there anie other Sauior than Christ onely Answere No for hee it is that must both saue from death eternall and giue life euerlasting Ioh. 3.16 and 5.24 Question What think you of thē that seeke their saluatiō els where as in their works good intēts Answere First they herein denie Christ to be the onely Sauiour for he will be a whole Sauiour or else none Acts. 4.12 Matth. 3.17 Secondly they make themselues to be half sauiours and to be equal copartners with Christ in the work of redemtion tit 3.4 5. Thirdly they resist the ordinance and decrée of God who appointed Christ
to bee the sole Sauior of mankinde Matt. 1.21 Fourthly in stéed of heauen euerlasting life they by their good intents and workes doo purchase hell and euerlasting death Ioh. 3.17 36. Question What vse ought we to make of this point Answere First to note how miserable we were of our selues after our fall as First in sinne Psal 51.5 Ier. 17.2 Secondly vnder the wrath of God eph 2.3 Thirdly captiues to the diuell eph 2.2 Fourthly inheritors of hell eternal death Rom. 6.23 Secondly the great and rich mercie of God First in giuing vs a Sauiour that might redeeme vs from sinne satan and hell Eph. 2.4 5. Tit. 3.4 5. Secondly in seeking to reconcile vs to him selfe and to make vs his children righteous 2. cor 5.18 19 20 21. Thirdly in giuing vs thereby euerlasting life and eternall happinesse Ioh. 5.24 Question Seeing we are now redeemed in Christ are we now therfore in a better and more happier estate vnder Christ our head than Adam was in his innocencie in Paradice Answere Yea surely the estate of Gods children is now more excellent Question Why so Answere First because wee haue an excellent head to wit Christ which Adam had not in the time of his innocēcie before his fal Eph. 1.22 col 1.18 Secondly God is more néerer ioyned vnto vs than he was vnto Adam at that time for he hath taken vpon himself since Adams fal our humane nature and ioyned the same to his diuine nature and is become one with vs sinne excepted Ephe. 5.30 Heb. 2.16 1. Pet. 2.23 1. Ioh. 3.5 Thirdly our saluation is more certain thā it was vnder Adam for then we had no power to stand in the perfection of our creation but now in Christ it is most certaine and firme because it is grounded First vpon the euerlasting vnchangable decrée and purpose of God Ephes 1. 11.2 Tim. 2.19 Secondly vppon the euerlasting mercies of God in Christ 2. Tim. 1.9 Thirdly vpon his faithfulnesse truth and righteousnes 1. cor 1.9 1. thes 5.24 Fourthly vpon his inuincible power omnipotencie Iohn 10.27 28 29. Fourthly God doth not onely giue vs heauen which Adam should haue had in his innocencie but also maketh vs heirs yea ioint heires with Christ in glorie the which Adam should neuer haue had if he had stoode in his innocencie so that wee maie see our estate farre better than Adams in Paradice Rom. 8.17 Question And is not man made more excellent than the Angels in heauen Answere Yes verely for First Christ tooke vpon him our nature and exalted it aboue all principalities powers and Dominions Eph. 1.20 21 22. Secondly man is made the Lord and ruler of the whole world that through grace in Christ which rule and lorldlie authoritie was neuer giuen vnto the Angels Psalm 8. the whole Thirdly the Angels by the free mercies of God are made the seruants of the faithfull to defend and comfort them for they are the ministring spirits sent foorth to minister for their sakes that shall be heires to saluation psal 34.7 Heb. 1.14 Question In that thou saist that man is restored to a better estate than Adam in his first innocencie in Paradice is become more excellent than Angels is thy meaning of all mankinde of all persons generally Answere No surelie but onely of the faithfull who are grafted into the bodie of Christ by the holy ghost as for infidels hipocrites heretikes libertines and atheists their estate is no better than the diuels in hell in shame and confusion for euer and euer Reuel 21.28 Eph. 5.5 Question Why died not Christ for all men as well as for a certaine number Answere No Christ died not for all for if Christ died for all then First there is no election 2. Tim. 3.19 Secondly God should be then vniust to condemne anie Rom. 3 4. psal 51.4 Thirdly al haue not faith 2. the .3.2 tit 1.1 Fourthly the spirit of Christ belongeth onely to the faithfull Rom. 8.9 10. Question Was there anie imperfection in the sacrifice of Christ in that it was not sufficient for all Answere There was no imperfection in the sacrifice of Christs bodie and soule for he was perfect and holy also it was sufficient for all people but effectual onely vnto those which lay hold on him through faith he 10.10 12 14. 9.25 26 28. Question The Scripture saith God would haue al men come to the knoledge of the truth be saued Answere The word all must be considered after this manner that First hee offereth grace vnto all but all receiue not the same Secondly that word must bee vnderstood some of all Nations Thirdly some of all callings as First Princes Secondly subiects Thirdly parents Fourthly children Fiftly masters Sixthly seruants Seuenthly men Eightly women Some of all which euen those that lay hold vpon Christ by a liuely true faith shall be saued and liue 1. Iohn 5.10 11 12 13. Fourthly we must consider that his reueled will is equally ruled by his secret wil and that they be not contrarie the one to the other although they seeme so to our foolish iudgements Fifthly that God is stable and vnchangeable in all his waies and workes Iam. 1 17. Question What moued God to saue some damne other some In that he saueth some is it for that they deserue the same or did he foresee that they would both beleeue and worke out their saluation Answere His owne mercie is the cause that he saueth some out of the sinfull lumpe of Adam for First all deserued damnation for the best worke after regeneration is defiled with sin and the reward of sinne is death how much more then deserue we death before God doth regenerate vs by his spirit 1. cor 13.9 Ro. 7.24 Secōdly faith is the only gift of god eph 2.8 Thirdly we cannot work wel before God regenerate vs vnto good works eph 2.9.10 Fourthly in that he dampneth other some it is of right and according to his righteous iudgements for that it is written if you do this you shall liue if you do not yee shall die Question How shall we bee perswaded of our saluation in Christ Answere Thorough faith Gal. 3.11 Gal. 2.16 Rom. 3.27 28. Question What is faith Answere A firme perswasion grounded vpon a sounde knowledge in sacred Scriptures that God is reconciled and become both our God and father thorough the merits obedience and bloudshedding of Iesus Christ in whome wee shall be saued and haue eternal life so assuredly as though wee possessed the same already which faith is wrought by the holy Ghost in the hearts of the elect thorough the ministerie and preaching of the word Rom. 5.1 2. Rom. 8.38 39. and 3.24 Ephe. 3.17 Ephe. 1.13 1. Ioh. 3.1 2 3. Question Then our faith must not bee wauering but firme in Christ and his promises Answere It must be firme and not wauering as Saint Iames teacheth for note this that not he which doubteth shall be saued but
Ghost by externall ministerie and preaching of the word confirmed by sacraments and finally gouerned by the holie discipline of their head Christ Iohn 20.16 17.20 Col. 3.10 11. Gal. 3.26 27 28 29. Ephe 4.30 Rom. 10.17 Rom. 4.11 Math. 18.15 to 21. Question Thou saist that the church consisteth of the elect therefore tell me what is election Answere It is the euerlasting and vnchangeable Decree of the almightie wise and iust God who of his free and rich mercie through faith in the bloud of his onelie beloued Sonne hath chosen to life eternall such as it pleased himselfe Eph. 1.2 Tim. 1.9 1. Pet. 1.2 Question What learne you out of this article Answere First that there is an election belonging vnto all estates and that through Gods mercie and Christs merites apprehended by faith Rom. 9.24 25 26 27. Eph. 1.4 5 6 7. Secondly that there is a Church of Christ partly militarie and partly triumphant the which Church shall bee to the ende of the world and in the life to come shall be euer more without ende let the diuell and men rage and roare while they will Reuel 6.5.6 7. 2. Tim. 1.9 10 19 20 21 22. Matth. 16.12 Thirdly As their election is of God and their redemption in Christ so their vocation and sanctification is of the holy Ghost by the ministerie and preaching of the word and sacraments 1. cor 6.10 Rom. 10.17 Gal. 3.2 Tit. 3.5 Fourthly he gouerneth the flock of Christ by his effectuall working in their hearts and his word 1. Cor. 1.2 3 c. Fiftly that there must be an holy fellowship and a godly Communion of the saints of God in all holines and righteousnes psa 85.10 Heb. 12.14 Question As in the beginning of this Article thou didst set downe the doctrine of election and how onely it dooth belong to the faithfull mēbers thereof so tell me more plainlie thy meaning therein Answere I will and that is this although the faithfull are but few in number yet the greater part of them doo consist of the poore of the fooles of the weake ones of the worlde to whome although they be so accounted of among men the election through grace doth belong onely vnto them 1. cor 1.27 to the end Question If there be an election there is also a reprobation Answere It is most true there is also a reprobation Question What is reprobation Answere It is an vtter reiecting and hardening of the hearts of those who are ordeined to euerlasting destruction that they cannot repent beleeue the Gospell to saluation Roman 9.17 18 22. Iud. 3. Reuel 17.8 Question How are the wicked in fault if God appoint thē to destruction for who can resist his will Answere I answere you thus that First the counsell of God excuseth not the wickednes of the wicked for the reprobate committeth sinne most willingly without constraint on the Lords behalfe so that although his reprobation bee of the Lord his damnation is of himself as Pharoah Iudas Exod. 9 10 and 11. chap. Matth. 26. Secondly the Apostle teacheth vs to humble our selues and not to carpe at the déepe secrets of God when he saith Who art thou ô man that thou shouldest plead with God Ro. 9.20 21. Question But if it be so touching the life to come that God hath appointed alreadie the elect and reprobate and hath appointed all the meanes to bring his counsell to passe we may do what we list for if appointed to be saued we shall bee saued if appointed to be damned we shall be damned and therefore all labour lost Answere It is certeine that we cannot frustrate alter the counsel of God no not the least mean therevnto belonging for then there should be in God First darknesse Secondly ignorance Thirdly weaknesse If things coulde fall out otherwise than God saw should come to passe and as he before had appointed Iam. 1.17 2. Timoth. 2.19 Question Is it not then in vaine as I haue alreadie said to labor and to vse the meanes to enioy life to doo the workes commanded Answere No for God hath appointed the meanes how to come to saluation in his foreknowledge and vnchangable purpose namely the preaching of the word reading and meditating thereof also the sacraments praier these things must be vsed and those that are the sheepe of Christ shall and wil vse them And as for good works we are both commanded to do them to make our election sure by them Ioh. 10.26 27. 2. pet 1.8 10. Question Why dooth God saue some and damne other some Answere First that he might shew his mercie to his elect to the praise of his glorie Rom. 9.15 23. Secondly that he might shewe foorth his iustice vpon the reprobate to the praise therof and to be glorified to their condemnation Rom. 9.22 Question What fruits haue we of this doctrine of predestination Answere First it ministreth great strength vnto our faith against all temptation 1. cor 10.13 Secondly comfort in all our afflictions because we shall not bee ouercome by them nor perish in them Rom. 8.18 Thirdly thanksgiuing is thereby required Ephe. 1.8 Rom. 15.9 10 11. First for his vnchangeable truth Secondly his euerlasting mercies Thirdly his inuincible power Question Then you firmely beleeue that it is impossible for the elect of God to fall away Answere Yea verely for although it were possible that heauen earth men and angells should cōspire against them yet they cannot be lost no not the least nor the poorest of them for God is both vnchaungeable in his purpose and Almightinesse it selfe therefore his counsell shall stande for euer and that for his against the gates of hell Rom. 8.38 39. Matth. 16.18 Question But we see manie after they haue professed the truth haue fallen from the same Answere It is true but they neuer beléeued and acknowledged the truth in sincerity of hart wherfore the spirit of God casteth them out of the nūber of the sacred flocke of God as hypocrites to their shame for if they had bin of God althogh subiect to many infirmities they shuld not haue perished for God would haue put his hand vnder them and raised them vp and kept them to euerlasting life Psal 145.14 1. Ioh. 2.27 Question What are the meanes whereby he sanctifieth his people Answere First the ministerie of the word Iho. 17.17 Secondly Sacraments Titus 3.5 Thirdly discipline Matth. 18. Fourthly Praier Matth. 7.7 Question How dooth hee sanctifie his Church by his word Answere First in that he begetteth and connecteth his people by the word Psal 19.7 1. Pet. 3.23 Secondly in that hee worketh faith in the hearts of his people and so purifieth their hearts by faith Rom. 10.17 Thirdly by the word which is the two edged sworde hee with the one side killeth the reprobate and with the other cutteth off all the exile affections of his people and reneweth them dailie to holines Hebru 4.12 Question What learne you hereby Answere First the excellencie