your flesh and I will give you an heart of flesh Q 7. Can no man come to Christ till thus enabled A. No it 's not in the power of man's nature or will till thus renewed and enabled Eph. 1.19 20. And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us ward who believe according to the working of his mighty power which he wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead and set him on his own right hand in the heavenly places John 6.44 No man can come to me except the father which hath sent me draw him Q 8. What sort of men are most ordinarily called A. The poor and mean ones in the world 1 Cor. 1.26 For ye see your calling brethren how that not many wise men after the flesh not many mighty not many noble are called but God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty Q. 9. What is the first Instruction from it A. Souls effectually called are never lost Rom. 11.29 For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance Q. 10. What is the second Instruction A. All things co-operare to their good Rom. 8.28 For we know that all things work together for good to them that love God to them who are called according to his purpose Q. 11. What is the third Instruction A. It is dangerous to refuse God's call Prov. 1.24 Because I have called and ye refused I have stretched out my hand and no man regarded Q 12. VVhat is the last Instruction A. That Christians are obliged to walk suitable to their heavenly calling 1 Thes. 2.12 That ye would walk worthy of God who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory Of the Concomitants of Vocation Quest. 32. WHAT benefits do they that are effectually called partake of in this Life A. They that are effectually called do in this life partake of Iustification Adoption Sanctification and the several benefiâ—s which in this life do either accompany or flow from them Q. 1. Are all that be effectually called justified A. Yes God justifies all and every Soul that obeys and answers his call Rom. 8.30 VVhom he called them he also justified Q. 2. VVhat other benefits have the called in this Life A. They are all the adopted Children of God Eph. 1.5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Iesus Christ unto himself according to the good pleasure of his will Q. 3. Are those all the benefits the called receive A. No they are not only justified and adopted but also sanctified 1 Cor. 1.30 But of him are ye in Christ Iesus who of God is made unto us wisdom righteousness and sanctification and redemption Q. 4. Do these three blessings come singly to the called A. No they are all accompanied with multitudes of other blessings flowing from them Eph 1.3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Iesus Christ who hath blessed us with all spriritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ. Q. 5. VVhat are the mercies flowing from Iustification A. They are great and manifold Rom. 5.1 2 3 4 5. Therefore being justified by faith we have pâ—ace with God through our Lord Iesus Christ by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand and rejoyce in the hope of the glory of God Q. 6. VVhat are the benefits flowing from Adoption A. Free access to God Eph. 3.12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the saith of him And a Title to Heaven Rom. 8.17 If children then heirs Q. 7. What Blessings accompany Sanctification A. Union with Christ. Heb. 2.11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one And Right to the Inheritance Acts 20.32 And now brethren I commend yâ—â— 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 sâ—â—ctified Q. 8. What is the first Lesson from hence A. That they are Enemies to their own Souls who obey not the Gospel Call 2 Thes. 1.8 In flaming fire taking veâ—geance on them that know not God and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Iesus Christ. Q. 9. What is the second Lesson from hence A. That the Estate of Believers abounds with spiritual priviledges 1 Cor. 3.22 23. VVhether Paul 〈◊〉 Apollo or Cephas or the world or life or death or things present or things to come all are yours and ye are Christ's and Christ is God's Q. 10. What is the third Lesson from hence A. That all the Believer's priviledges are not in hope but some in hand 1 Iohn 3.1 Behold what manner of loâ—e the father hath bestowed upon us that we should be called the sons of God Q 11. What is the fourth Lesson A. The greatest sufferers for Christ have no reason to repent their call Rom. 8.18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed in us Q 12. What is the last Lesson from hence A. That we have infinite reason to bless God for the Gospel by which we are called 2 Thes. 2.14 Whereunto he calleâ— you by our Gospel Of Iustification Quest. 33. WHAT is Iustification A. Iustification is an Act of God's Free-grace wherein he pardoneth all our Sins and accepteth us as righteous in his sight only for the righteousness of Christ imputed to us and receivedly faith alone Q 1. What are the parts of Iustification A. It consists of two Parts First The pardon of Sin Acts 13.39 And by him all that believe are justified from all things from which ye could not be justified by the Law of Moses Secondly The acceptation of our persons as righteous Rom. 5.1 2 3. Therefore being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Iesus Christ by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand and rejoyce in hope of the glory of God Q. 2. Whose act is it to justify Sinners A. It is the act of God alone Rom. 8.33 It is God that justifieth Man's justifying of himself is nothing Luke 16.15 And he said unto them Ye are they which justify your selves before men but God knoweth your hearts for that which is highly esteemed amongst men is abomination in the sight of God Nor other mens justifying of us Rev. 3.1 I know thy works that thou hast a name to live and art dead Q. 3. Is there any thing in man to merit his Iustification A. No it is an act of Free-grace in God Rom. 3.24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption which is in Iesus Christ. Q. 4. If it be not for any inherent righteousness how then A. It is for the righteousness of Christ imputed to us Rom. 4.6 Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man unto whom God imputeth righteousness without
works Q. 5. How is Christ's righteousness made ours A. By Application of it to us by Faith Gal. 2.16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by the faith of Iesus 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. 6. Is it not partly by Christ's Righteousness and partly our own A. No by Christ's Righteousness without any mixture of ours Rom. 3.28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law Q. 7. But doth not James says otherwise Jam. 2.14 What doth it profit my brethren though a man say he hath faith and have not works Can faith save him A. The two Apostles contradict not one another Paul speaks of Justification before God and Iames of justifying our Faith before men Q. 8. Is no regard then to be had to good works A. Yes very great they that believe must be careful to maintain good works Tit. 3.8 That they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works These things are good and profitable unto men Q. 9. Why can none be justified by works A. Because all are guilty before God Rom. 3.29 Is he the God of the Iews only Is he not also of the Gentiles Yes of the Gentiles also And the Law curses all that are under guilt Gal. 3.10 Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them Q. 10. What is the first Inference from hence A. The happy State of Believers who are now at peace with God Rom. 5.1 Therefore being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Iesus Christ. And whom he justifieth he glorifieth Rom. 8.30 Whom he justified them he also golrified Q. 11. What is the second Inference hence A. The excellency and necessity of Faith Rom. 3.30 The circumcision is justified by faith and the uncircumcision through faith Q. 12. What is the third Inference A. That the greatness of sin is no bar to faith since it is the Righteousness of Christ that justifieth 2 Cor. 5.21 For he hath made him to be sin for us who knew no sin that we may be made the righteousness of God in him Q. 13. What is the last Inference A. That Believers ought to be exceeding humble and far from boasting The Law of Faith excludes boasting Rom. 3.27 Where is boasting then It is excluded by what law Of works nay but by the law of faith Of Adoption Quest. 34. WHAT is Adoption A. Adoption is an act of God's Free-grace whereby we are received into the number and have a Right to all the Priviledges of the Sons of God Q. 1. How many sorts of Sons be there A. There is one by Generation and another by Adoption Iohn 1.12 13. But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the Sons of God even to them that believe in his name which were born not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man but of God Q. 2. What moves God to adopt any man A. Nothing but his Free-love Iohn 3.1 Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed on us that we should be called the Son of God Q. 3. Is this priviledge common to all men A. No it 's peculiar to them that receive him Iohn 1.12 But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the Sons of God Q. 4. What is the first property of Adoption A. It is a costly Relation Gal. 4.45 When the fulness of time was come God sent forth his Sâ—n made of a woman made under the law to redeem them that were under the law that we might receive the adoption of sons Q. 5. What is the second property of Adoption A. It is an high and honourable relation 1 Iohn 3 1â—â— Behold what manner of love the father hath bestowed upon us thaâ— we should be called the Sons of God Q. 6. What is the third property of Adoption A. It is a free relation on God's part Eph. 1.45 Accordâ—ing 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 Havâ—ing predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Iesus Chriâ—â— to himself according to the good pleasure of his will And 〈◊〉 makes us free Iohn 8.36 If the son therefore shall make you free ye shall be free indeed Q. 7. What is the fourth property of Adoption A. It is a permanent relation Iohn 8.35 The son abideth in the house for ever Q. 8. What is the first priviledge of the adopted A. They have an interest in God as Children in a Father 2 Cor. 6.18 And will be a father unto you and ye shall be my sons and daughters saith the Lord Almighty Q. 9. What is the second Priviledge A. Being God's Sons they are Heirs of God and joyâ—â— Heirs with Christ. Rom. 8.17 And if children then heirs Heirs of God and joynt heirs with Christ. Q. 10. What is the third Priviledge A. Seasonable and sanctified afflictions Heb. 12.6 〈◊〉 scourgeth every son whom he receiveth Q. 11. What is their fourth Priviledge A. The Attendance and Ministry of Angels Heb. 1 1â— Are they not all ministring spirits sent forth to minister for thâ—â— who shall be heirs of salvation Q. 12. What is their fifth Priviledge A. The assistance of the Spirit in Prayer Rom. 8.15 Foâ— we have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear but yâ—â— have received the spirit of adoption whereby we cry Abba fatherâ— And God's audience of their Prayers 1 Iohn 5.14 Aâ—â— this is the confidence that we have in him That if we ask any tâ—ing according to his will he heareth us Q. 13. What use should we make of this A. It teachech us to carry our selves as Children to our â—eavenly Father First In our imitation of him Eph. 5. â— Be ye therefore followers of God as dear children Secondly In â—ur submission to him Heb. 12.9 Furthermore we have had â—athers of our flesh which corrected us and we gave them reverence â—hall we not much rather be in subjection to the father of spirits â—nd live Thirdly In our dependance on him Mat. 6.32 â—or your heavenly father knoweth that you have need of all â—hese things Of Sanctification Quest. 35. WHAT is Sanctification A. Sanctifitation is the work of God's Free-grace whereby we are renewed in the whole man after the Image of God and are enabled more and more to die unto sin and live unto righteousness Q. 1. What are the parts of Sanctification A. Dying unto Sin and living unto God Rom. 6.11 Likewise reckon ye also your selves to be dead indeed unto sin but alive unto God througe Iesus Christ our Lord. Q. 2. Who is the
us which most resembles God and therefore our chief regard and care should be for them whatever becomes of the vile Body Mat. 16.26 For what is a man profited if he gain the whole world and lose his own Soul Or what shall a man give in Exchange for his Soul Q. 7. What further Truth may be inferr'd hence A. That men should beware of spiritual Sins as well as of gross and outward Sins for there is a filthiness of the Spirit as well as of the Flesh. 2 Cor. 7.1 Let us cleanse our selves from all filthiness of flesh and spirit and as God sees them so he greatly abhors them as Sins that defile the noblest part of man on which he stamp'd his own Image Q. 8. What also may be inferr'd from hence A. Hence we learn that spiritual Worship is most agreeable to his Nature and Will and the more spiritual it is the more acceptable it will be to him Iohn 4.24 God is a Spirit and they that worship him must worship him in Spirit and in Truth Externals in worship are of little regard with God as places habits gestures c. Apply this First To Superstitious men Isa. 66.1 2 3. Secondly To Children that say a Prayer but mind not to whom nor what they say Of God's Infinity Quest. 1. WHat is the sense and meaning of this Word Infinity A. It signifies that which hath no bounds or limits within which it is contained as all created things are Q. 2. In how many respects is God infinite A. God is infinite or boundless in three respects First In respect of the perfection of his Nature his Wisdom Power and Holiness exceed all measures and limits as 1 Sam. 2.2 There is none holy as the Lord c. Secondly In respect of time and place no time can measure him Isa. 57.15 Thus saith the high and lofty one that inhabiteth Eternity 1 Kings 8.27 Behold the Heaven of heavens cannot contain thee how much less this House which I have built The Heaven of heavens contains all created Beings but not the Creator Thirdly In respect of his Incomprehensibleness by the understanding of all creatures Iob. 11.7 Canst thou by searching find out God canst thou find out the Almighty to perfection Q 3. If God be thus Infinite and no understanding can comprehend him How then is it said in 1 John 3.2 VVe shall see him as he is A. The meaning is not that glorified Saints shall comprehend God in their understandings but that they shall have a true apprehensive Knowledge though not a comprehensive Knowledge of God and that we shall see him immediately and not as we do now thorow a glass darkly Q. 4. What is the first Lesson to be learnt from God's Infinity A. That therefore men should tremble to sin even in secret Psal. 139.11 If I say surely the darkness shall cover me even the Night shall be light about me Q. 5. What is the second Instruction from hence A. The second Instruction is That there is an infinite evil in sin objectively consider'd as it is committed against an Infinite God and therefore it deserves Eternal Punishment and no satisfaction can possibly be made for it but by the Blood of Christ. 1 Pet. 1.18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things as Silver and Gold but with the precious Blood of Christ. Q. 6. What is the third Instruction from God's Infinity A. The third Instruction is That those who are reconciled to God in Christ need not fear his ability to perform any mercy for them for he is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we can ask or think Ephes. 3.20 And those that are not reconciled are in a very miserable condition having infinite Power set on work to punish them 2 Thes. 1.9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and from the glory of his power Q. 7. What is the fourth Instruction from God's Infinity A. That no place can bar the access of gracious Souls to God They are as near him in a Dungeon as when at Liberty and that he knows their thoughts when their tongues cannot utter them Eternal Quest. 1. WHat is it to be Eternal as God is A. The Eternity of God is to be without beginning and without end Psal. 90.2 From everlasting to everlasting thou art God Q. 2. How doth God's Eternity differ from the Eternity of Angels and Humane Souls A. It differs in two respects First In this That tho Angels and the Souls of men shall have no end yet they had a beginning which God had not Secondly Our Eternity is by gift from God or by his appointment but his Eternity is necessary and from his own Nature Q. 3. In what sense is the Covenant called an everlasting Covenant A. The Covenant is called an Everlasting Covenant 2 Sam. 23.5 because the mercies of it conveyed to believers as pardon peace and salvation are mercies that shall have no end Q. 4. In what sense is the Gospel Everlasting A. The Gospel is called the Everlasting Gospel Rev. 14.6 because the effects thereof upon the Souls it sanctifies will abide in them for ever Q. 5. In what sense is the Redemption of Christ called the Eternal Redemption A. The Redemption of Christ is called Eternal Redemption in Heb. 9.12 because those whom he redeems by his Blood shall never more come into condemnation Iohn 5.24 He that heareth my word and believeth on him that sent me hath everlasting life and shall not come into condemnation but is passed from death unto life Q. 6. VVhy is the last Iudgment of the world by Christ called Eternal Iudgment A. The last Judgment is called Eternal Judgment not because God judged men from Eternity or because the Day of Judgment shall last to Eternity but because the consequences of it will be Everlasting Joy or Misery to the Souls of Men therefore it 's called eternal judgment Heb. 6.2 Q 7. VVhat may wicked men learn from the Eternity of God A. Hence wicked men may see their own misery in the perfection of it that they will have an eternal Enemy to avenge himself upon them for ever in the world to come 2 Thess. 1.9 VVho shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord. Q. 8. VVhat may good men learn from it A. That their joy and happiness will be perfect and endless who have the Eternal God for â—heir portion Psalm 16.11 In thy presence is fulness of joy at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore Q. 9. VVhat may all men good and had learn from it A. All men may learn three things from the Eternity of God First That their life is a thing of nought compared with God Psal. 39.5 Mine age is nothing before thee Secondly That sins or duties long since committed or performed are all present before God Thirdly That God can never want opportunity to do his work and carry
Not from any natural efficacy it had to give knowledge but the Knowledge he should have by eating or not eating was experimental Knowledge i. â— Knowledge to his Sorrow Q. 2. VVhy did God forbid him this Tree A. First For the discovery of his dominion over man Secondly For the trial of his subjection and obedience Thirdly For the aggravation of his sin if he should eat Q. 3. VVhat evil was there in eating of it A. There was a twofold Evil the evil of Sin and the evil of Punishment both very great Q. 4. What was the Evil of Sin A. A threefold Evil of Sin First Against God called disobedience Rom. 5.19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners Secondly Against himself Soul Body and Estate Thirdly Against his Posterity 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 Q 5. What was the Evil of Punishment First Loss of God's Image Secondly Horror of Conscience Thirdly Sorrow on the Female Sex Fourthly Curse on the Creature Fifthly Expulsion from Paradise Sixthly Death both of Body and Soul Q 6. What is the first Instruction from it A. To take heed of small beginnings of Temptations and resist it in the first motions Iam. 3.5 Behold how great a matter a little fire kindleth Q. 6. What is the second Inference A. Not to hold a parly with the tempter See 2 Cor. 11.3 But I fear lest by any means as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. Q. 8. What is the third Inference A. That Satan's policy lies much in the choice of his tempting instruments as Eve and Peter c. Q. 9. VVhat is the fourth Inference A. A necessity of keeping strong-guards on our Senses Isa. 33.15 That stoppeth his ears from hearing of blood and shutteth his eyes from seeing evil he shall dwell on high his place of defence shall be the munition of rocks Q. 10. VVhat is the fifth Inference A That Covenant-breaking is a heinous sin which God will punish Hos. 8.1 He shall come as an Eagle against the house of the Lord because they have transgressed my covenant and trespassed against my laws Q. 11. VVhat is the last Inference A. That the corruption of our nature is much seen in desiring forbidden things Rom. 7.7 VVhat shall we say then Is the law sin God forbid Nay I had not known sin but by the law for I had not known lust except the law had said Thou shalt not covet Of the Fall of Adam and ours in him Quest. 16. DId all Mankind fall in Adam's 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 Q. 1. Did no man ever escape the Sin of Adam A. Yes The man Christ Jesus did and he only Heb. 7.26 For such an high priest became us who is holy harmless undefiled separate from sinners Q. 2. Why was not Christ tainted with it A. Because he came into the world in an extraordinary way Mat. 1.18 Now the birth of Christ was on this wise when as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph before they came together she was found with child of the Holy Ghost Q. 3. How doth it appear all others are tainted with it A. It appears by Scripture-Testimony 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 And experience of the best men Rom. 7.21 I find then a law that when I would do good evil is present with me Q. 4. How came all men to fall with Adam A. Because all were included in Adam 's Covenant as a Man's Covenant includes his Children before they be born or the treason of the father affects his posterity Q. 5. What infer you from hence A. The stupendious wisdom of God in sending Christ in our nature and yet without the sin and taint of it 1 Cor. 1.24 Christ the wisdom of God Q. 6. What is the second Inference A. Hence we learn the admirable love of Christ in taking our nature with all the sinless Infirmities thereof Rom. 8.3 For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh God sending his own son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin condemned sin in the flesh Q. 7. What is the third Inference A. The necessity of our Union with Christ in order to our participation of his Righteousness and Redemption 1 Cor. 15.22 For as in Adam all die so in Christ shall all be made alive Q. 8. What is the fourth Inference A. Hence we learn the malignant and mortal nature of sin in as much as our sin defiled and destroyed a whole world Q. 9. What is the fifth Inference A. That though all be not equally sensible of their need yet one sinner needs Christ as much as another Q. 10. What is the last Inference A. That no man hath any cause or reason to boast of the goodness of his nature since the best were by nature under the same sin and misery as the worst Eph. 2.3 Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lust of our flesh fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind and were by nature the children of wrath even as others Of Original Sin Quest. 17. INto what Estate did the Fall bring Mankind A. The Fall brought Mankind into an Estate of Sin and Misery Q. 18. Wherein consists the sinfulness of that Estatâ— whereinto Man fell A. The fulness of that Estate whereinto man fell consists in the guilt of Adamâ—s first Sin the want of original Righteousness and corruption of his â—â—ole Nature which is commonly called original Sin together with all actual Transgressions which proceed from sin Q. 1. How many sorts of Sin are all men under A. All men are guilty before God of two sorts of Sin of Original and Actual Psal. 51.5 Behold I was shapen in iniquity and in sin did my mother conceive me Eccles. 7.20 For there is not a just man upon earth that doth good and sinneth not Q. 2. How can we be guilty of Adam's first Sin A. We are guilty of it because Adam sinned not only as a single but also as a publick Person and representative of all Mankind Rom. 5.15 16 17. But not as the offence so also 〈◊〉 the free gift for if through the offence of one many be dead much more the grace of God and the gift by grace which is by one maâ— Iesus Christ hath abounded unto many and not as it was by one that sinned so is the gift for the judgment was by one to condemnation Q 3. How else came we under his guilt A. We are guilty of
destitute thing the Soul is that 's out of Christ. Rev. 3.17 18. Because thou sayest I am rich and increased with goods and have need of nothing and knowest not that thou art wretched and miserable and poor and blind and naked Q. 9. What elsâ— doth it teach us A. The riches and dignity of Believers Christ and all his purchases are theirs 1 Cor. 3.22 23. Whether Paul or Apollo or Câ—phas or the world or life or death or things present or things to come all are yours and ye are Christ's and Christ is God's Q. 10. What else doth it teach us A. The Righteousness of God in the destruction of all unbelievers Iohn 5.40 Mark 16.16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved but he that believeth not shall be damned Of our Vnion with Christ. Quest. 30. HOW doth the Spirit apply to us the Redemption puâ—chased by Christ A. By working faith in us thereby uniting us to Christ in our effectual Calling Q. 1. Can none have saving benefit by Christ but such as are united to him A. No for as Adam 's Sin could not hurt us except we had been in hin so Christ's Redemption cannot profit us except we are in him 1 Cor. 1.30 But of him are ye in Christ Iesus who of God is made unto us wisdom righteousness sanctification and redemption Q 2. What are the Bonds of this Union A. The Spirit on God's part 1 Iohn 3.24 And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him and he in him and hereby we know that he abideth in us by the spirit which he hath given us And Faith on our part Eph 3.17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith Q. 3. What is the first Property of this Union A. It is an intimate Union Eph. 5.30 For we are members of his body of his flesh and of his bones Q. 4. What is the second Property A. It is an Union never to be dissolved Rom. 8.35 38. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ Shall tribulation distress or persecution or famine or nakedness or peril or sword for I am persuaded that neither death nor life nor angels nor principalities nor powers nor things present nor things to come nor height nor depth nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Iesus our Lord. Q. 5. What is the third Propety of this Union A. It makes Christ and all that he hath purchased become ours 1 Cor. 3.23 All are yours and ye are Christ's and Christ is God's Q. 6. What is the fourth property of this Union A. It is the foundation and root of all our spiritual and acceptable Obedience Iohn 15.4 Abide in me and I in you as the branch cannot bear fruit of it self except it abide in the vine no more can ye except ye abide in me Q. 7. What is the first Inference from hence A. That saving Grace in the Saints is immortal being secâ—â—red to them in and by Christ. Col. 3.3 Your life is hid with 〈◊〉 in God Q. 8. What is the second Inference A. That the relation between Christ and Believers is verâ— dear and intimate Eph. 5.30 For we are members of his 〈◊〉 of his flesh and of his bones Q. 9. What is the third Inference A. That Believers need not be afraid to go down to 〈◊〉 Grave Rom. 8.38 For I am perswaded that neither death 〈◊〉 life nor any other creature shall be able to separate us from thâ— love of God which is in Christ Iesus our Lord. And this Unioâ— holds after death Mat. 22.31 32. But as touching the resâ—rection of the dead have ye not read that which was spoken unto yâ—â— by God saying I am the God of Abraham and the God 〈◊〉 Isaac and the God of Iacob God is not a God of the dead but 〈◊〉 the living Q 10. What is the fourth Inference A. That in wronging and persecuting the Saints 〈◊〉 wrong and persecute Christ himself Acts 9.4 And he fell tâ— the earth and heard a voice saying unto him Saul Saul Why persecutest thou me Q. 11. What is the fifth Inference A. That in relieving and refreshing the Saints we relieve and refresh Christ himself Mat. 25.34 35. For I was an hungry and ye gave me meat and I was thirsty and ye gave 〈◊〉 drink I was a stranger and ye took me in naked and ye cloathâ—â— me I was sick and ye visited me I was in prison and ye came 〈◊〉 me Ver. 40. In as much as ye have done it unto one of the leaf of these my brethren ye have done it unto me Q. 12. What is the last Inference A. That there is a sympathy in Christ under all the pressureâ— and grievances of his people Heb. 4.15 We have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities 〈◊〉 was in all points tempted like as we are yet without sin Of Effectual Calling Quest. 31. WHAT is effectual Calling A. Effectual Calling is the work of God's Spirit whereby convincing us of our sin and misery enlightening our minds in the knowledge of Christ and renewing one wills he doth perswade and enable us to embrace Iesus Christ freely offered to us in the Gospel Q. 1. What makes the difference between effectual and ineffectual Calling A. Ineffectual calling is when men have nothing but the external sound of the Gospel Mat. 20.16 For many be called and few chosen Effectual is when the Spirit works in conjunction with the Word Iohn 6.45 It is written in the prophets And they shall be all taught of God every man therefore that hath heard and hath learned of the father cometh unto me Q. 2. What is the First act of the Spirit in Effectual Calling A. Conviction of Sin Iohn 16.8 And when he is come he will reprove the world of sin Q. 3. Do the Called of God hear any voice from Heaven A. Ordinarily it is a call without sound yet as efficacious as an audible Voice from Heaven Q. 4. What is the Second act of the Spirit in our Effectual calling A. The illumination of the mind in the knowledge of Christ. Acts 26.18 To open their eyes and to turn them from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God Q. 5. In what things doth it enlighten them A. In this That Christ is their only remedy Acts 4.12 Neither is there salvation in any other for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved And their all-sufficient remedy Heb. 7.25 Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him Q. 6. What is the Third Act A. His renewing of the Sinner's will and making it flexible Psal. 110.3 Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power Ezek. 36.26 A new heart also will I give you and a new spirit will I put within you and I will take away the stony heart out of
and magnify it as a rule of duty though we must utterly renounce it as the way of our Justification Q. 12. What is the last Inference from hence A. That there is nothing too dear for a Christian in this world but he must give it up by self-denial when it comes in competition with his supream love to God Luke 14.26 If any man come to me and hate not his father and mother wife and children and brethren and sisters yea and his own life also he cannot be my disciple i. e. Love them less than me Of the Preface to the Commandments Quest. 43. and 44. WHAT is the Preface to the Ten Commandments A. The Preface to the Ten Commandments is in these words I aâ— the Lord thy God whâ—ch haâ—e brought thee out of the Land of Egypt out of the House of Bondage What doth the Preface to the Ten Commandments teach us A. The Preface to the Ten Commandments teach us that because God is the Lord and our God and Redeemer therefore we are bound to keep all his Commandments Q. 1. Why doth God use arguments and inducements to win men to the obedience of his laws A. Because he loves to work on man as a rational Creature according to the principles of his Nature Hos. 11.4 I dreâ— them with cords of a man with bands of love And because he delights in none but free and chearful Obedience Psal. 110.3 Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power Q 2. What is the first argument in this Preface A. It is the sovereignty of the Law-giver I am the Lord which should awe the heart of every man to obedience Iam. 4.12 There is one law-giver who is able to save and to destroy Q 3. What is the second argument to Obedience A. Our propriety in God by Covenant I am the Lord thy God This obligeth to Obedience and aggravateth disobedience Psal. 50.7 Hear O my people and I will speak O Israel and I will testify against thee I am God even thy God Hos. 9.1 Thou hast gone a whoring from thy God Q. 4. What is the third argument unto Obedience A. The benefits of Redemption that they receive from God Benefits perswade to duty and the goodness of God leads to repentance Rom. 2.4 Q. 5. How can deliverance out of Egypt be an argument to them that never were in Egypt A. As that Deliverance was a Type of our Deliverance so 't is an argument to us and an argument from the less to the greater so it obligeth us more than them Luke 1.74 75. That he would grant unto us that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear in holiness anâ— righteousness before him all the days of our life Q 6. What is that deliverance we have and how doth it 〈◊〉 us to Obedience A. Our Deliverance is not from Egypt but from Hell Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son Col. 1.13 And our persons are bought by the Redeemer to glorify God 1 Cor. 6.19 What know ye not that your body is the Temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you for ye are bought with a price wherefore glorify God in your body and in your spirits which are Gods Q. 7. Is it not mercenary to serve God upon the account of benefits received or to be received A. He that makes religious Duties Mediums to attain carnal Advantages only is of a worse than mercenary Spirit Hos. 7.14 And they have not cried unto me with their hearts when they howled upon their beds they assembled themselves for corn and wine and they rebelled against me But to be quickened by Mercy to Duty is not mercenary but Evangelical Hos. 3.5 They shall fear the Lord and his goodness Q. 8. What is the first Inference from hence A. That great is the condescention of God to Man that he will use arguments to induce him to obedience who might exact it only by his Sovereignty and justly damn us for our disobedience 2 Cor. 5.20 Now then we are embassadors for Christ as though God did beseech you by us we pray you in Christ's stead be ye reconciled to God Q. 9 What is the second Inference from hence A. That the more mercy any receive from God the more obligations are laid on them to obey him Psal. 116.1 2. I love the Lord because he hath heard my voice and my supplication because he hath inclined his ear unto me therefore will I call upon him as long as I live Q. 10. What is the third Inference from hence A. The more mercies and favours any man sins against the greater is that man's sin and the sorer will be his punishment Amos 3 1 2. You only have I known of all the families of the earth wherefore I will punish you for all your iniquities Q. 11. What is the fourth Inference from hence A. That God's expectations are greater where his mercies and favours have been so Isa. 5.4 What could have been done more to my vineyard that I have not done in it wherefore when I looked that it should bring forth grapes brought it forth wild grapes Q. 12. What is the last Inference from hence A. That memorials of God's Mercies are to be kept by us to provoke us to constant and chearful duties of obedience Exod. 17.14 And the Lord said unto Moses Write this for a memorial in a book and rehearse it in the ears of Ioshua Psal. 103.2 3. Bless the Lord O my soul forget not all his benefits Of the First Commandment Quest. 45. WHich is the First Commandment A. The First Commandment is Thou shalt have no other Gods before me Q. 1. What is the first duty enjoin'd in the first Commandment A. It is to know and acknowledge the Existence or Being of God and consequently condemns all Atheism both in judgment and practice Heb. 11.6 He that cometh to God must believe that he is and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him Psalm 14.1 The fool hath said in his heart there is no God Q. 2. What is the second duty of the First Commandment A. It requires all men to know and acknowledge the unity of God Deut. 6.4 Hear O Israel the Lord our God is one Lord. And condemns Polytheism or plurality of Gods 1 Cor. 8.5 6. For tho' there be that are called Gods whether in heaven or in earth as there be Gods many and Lords many but to us there is but one God Q. 3. Whence sprang the Opinion of more Gods than one at first in the world A. It sprang from ignorance of God's Omnipresence and Omnipotence Hence came their vain imaginations Rom. 1.21 Because that when they knew God they glorified him not as God neither were thankful but became vain in their imaginations and their foolish heart was darkened They thought the presence and power of God might reach one place and not
12.10 15. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love in honour preâ—eâ—â—ing one another Rejoyce with them that do rejoyce and weep with them that weep Q. 7. What 's the first Sin forbidden in this Commandment A. It directly and especially forbids all sinful and inordinate desires and motions after other Mens enjoyments Col. 3.5 Mortifie therefore your members which are upon the earth fornication uncleanness inordinate affection evil concupiscence and covetousness which is idolatry Q. 8. What 's the second Sin forbidden in this Commandment A. It forbids all cruelty and incompassionateness to others in necessity and keeping back from them that relief which is made theirs by Gods command Prov. 11.24 There is that with-holdeth more than is meet but it tendeth to poverty Lev. 19.9 10. And when ye reap the harvest of your land thou shalt not wholly reap the corners of thy field neither shalt thou gather the gleanings of thy harvest And thou shalt not glean thy vineyard neither shalt thou gather every grape of thy vineyard thou shalt leave them for the poor and stranger I am the Lord your God Q. 9. What is the third Sin forbidden in this Command A. It forbids the detaining of the Hirelings Wages when it is due Hab. 2.9 10 11. Wo to him that coveteth an evil covetousness to his house that he may set his nest on high that he may be delivered from the power of evil Thou hast consulted shame to thy house by cutting off many people and hast sinned against thy soul. For the stone shall cry out of the wall and the beam out of the timber shall answer it Q. 10. What 's the fourth Sin forbidden in this Commandment A. It forbids all inward grudgings at and envyings of the enjoyments of others whether they be inward Goods of the Mind or outward belonging to the Body 1 Cor. 13.4 Charity envieth not c. Q. 11. What 's the mischief of Covetousness A. It distracts the Heart in Duties Ezek. 33.31 And they come unto thee as the people cometh and they sit before thee as my people and they hear thy words but they will not do them for with their mouth they show much love but their heart goeth after their covetousness Provokes the wrath of God Isa. 57.17 For the iniquity of his covetousness was I wroth and smote him c. And where it reigns it becomes Idolatry Col. 3.5 And covetousness which is Idolatry Q. 12. What 's the first Inference hence A. It calls all men to humiliation for the inordinacy of their Affections towards the World their discontent with their own and envyings of others conditions Q. 13. What 's the second Inference hence A. As ever we would keep clear from this sin let us make God our portion Psal. 16.5 6. The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup thou maintainest my lot And labour to get the Soul-satisfying comforts of his Spirit Iohn 4.14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst c. 2 Cor. 6.10 As having nothing and yet possessing all things Q. 14. What 's the last Inference hence A. If God have given us a sufficiency of the things of this life for our necessity let us be satisfied though we want other things for our delight 1 Tim. 6.8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content And relieve our selves by an expectation of those better things laid up in Heaven for us if we be believers Iam. 2.5 Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him Of keeping the Law Quest. 82. IS any man able perfectly to keep the Commandments of God A. No meer man since the fall is able in this life perfectly to keep the Commandments of God but doth dayly break them in Thought Word and Deed. Q. 1. Wherein doth thâ— perfect keeping of Gods Law consist A. It consists in the perfect and constant conformity of the internal and external Actions of Heart and Life to every Command of God Gal. 3.10 Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them Matth. 22.37 38 39. Iesus said unto him thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul and with all thy mind This is the first and great Commandment And the second is like unto it Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thy self Q. 2. But if a man commit no external act against the Law may he not be said perfectly to keep it although in mind or thought he should transgress A. No for an inward motion of sin in the Heart that never breaks forth into act is a violation of the Law and brings the Soul under the curse of it Matth. 5.21 22. Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time Thou shalt not kill and whâ—soever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment But I say unto you that whosoever is angry with hâ—s brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment c. And ver 27 28. Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time Thou shalt not commit adultery But I say unto you that whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart Q. 3. May not a man keep the Law if he keep some of its Commands though he cannot keep every one of them punctually A. No he cannot for the transgression of any one Command in the least degree is a breach of all and brings the curse of the whole upon a Mans Soul Iam. 2.10 For who soever shall keep the whole law and yet offend in one point he is guilty of all Q. 4. Was the Law never kept by any since it was made A. Yes Adam in his innocent state kept it for he was made upright Eccles. 7.29 God made man upright c. And Christ perfectly kept it Matth. 5.17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets I am not come to destroy but to fulfil Q. 5. What 's the first Reason why no meer man in this life can fulfil and keep the law of God perfectly A. It is because the Law of God is perfect and the best of Men in this life are imperfect Psal. 19.7 The law of the Lord is perfect c. Eccles. 7.20 For there is not a just man upon earth that doeth good and sinneth not Q. 6. But may not Men perfectly keep it when regenerate and born of God A. No because even in the regenerate there is a Law of Sin which wars against the Law of God Gal. 5.17 For the flesh lusteth against the spirit and the spirit against the flesh c. Rom. 7.22 23. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man But I see another law in my members warring against the law
have not an high Priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities but was in all points tempted like as we are yet without sin Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy and find gracec to help in time of need Q. 13. What 's the last Inference from hence A. That the seeing Believers have a Father in Heaven they should never fear wants whilst they live nor be afraid to die since Death brings them to Heaven their Fathers house Of Sanctifying Gods Name Quest. 101. WHat do we pray for in the first Petition A. In the first Petition which is hallowed be thy Name we pray that God would enable us and others to gloryfy him in all that whereby he maketh himself known and that he would dispose all things to his own glory Q. 1. Is there any word full enough perfectly to express what God is A. No his Name is secret Iudg. 13.18 And the Angel of the Lord said unto him why askest thou thus after my name seeing it is secret A Name which none can tell Prov. 30.4 what is his name and what is his sons name if thou canst tell A Name above every Name Phil. 2.9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him and given him a name which is above every name But the Name by which he more especially manifests himself is the name I am Exod. 3.14 And God said unto Moses I am that I am And he said thus shalt thou say unto the Children of Israel I am hath sent me unto you Q. 2. What doth the Name of God I am signify to us A. It signifies to us first the reality of his being in opposition to Idols which are but imaginary and Phantastick things 1 Cor. 8.4 We know that an Idol is nothing in the world c. God is not only the most perfect being but the root of all other beings Q. 3. What else doth this Name I am import A. It imports both the perfection and eternity of Gods being I am implies he hath not that now which he had not formerly and that he shall not afterwards have what he hath not now And that there is neither beginning End or succession with God whose name is I am Q. 4. But what are we here to understand by the name of God A. All those things are here intended by which he manifests himself to the Creature as his Word Works and Ordinances but especially his glorious Attributes Exod. 34.5 6. The Lord the Lord God merciful and gracious long-suffering and abundant in goodness and truth Q. 5. What is it to Hallow or Sanctify his Name A. Not to infuse any holiness into him which he had not before so he Sanctifies us but to manifest and acknowledge the holiness of God Isa. 29.23 But when he seeth his Children the work of my hands in the midst of him they shall sanctify my name and sanctify the holy one of Iacob and shall fear the God of Israel Q. 6 Why Hallwed or Sanctified rather than Glorified Why that word rather than this Because his Holiness is the beauty and lustre of his other Attributes His Greatness appears in his Holiness Isa. 12.6 great is the holy one of Israel in the midst of thee So doth his Power Luke 1.49 For â—e that is mighty hath done to me great things and holy is his name And therefore his Holiness is that Attribute which Angels single out especially to celebrate Isa. 6.3 And one cried unto another and said holy holy holy is the Lord of Hosts c. And so do men also as it is the cause why they should glorify him Exod. 15.11 Who is like thee glorious in holiness c. Q. 7. What 's the first thing we are to intend in this Petition A. The meaning is that God would so dispose and order all thiâ—gs in the World as may best promote and advance the glory of his Name on which account we may Pray for the defeat of Gods Enemies Psal. 83.16 17 18. Fill their faces with shame that they may seek thy name O Lord. Let them be confounded and troubled for ever yea let them be put to shame and perish That men may know that thou whose name alone is Jehovah art the most high over all the Earth And the deliverance of his Church and people Psal. 79.9 Help us O God of our Salvation for the glory of thy name and deliver us and purge away our sins for thy names sake Q. 8. What 's the second Thing we are to intend in it A. That God would fit us for and use us in the most serviceable capacity for the glorifying of his Name Psal. 67.1 2 3. God be merciful unto us and bless us and cause his face to shine upon us That thy way may be known upon earth thy saving health among all nations Let the people praise thee O God let all the people praise thee Q. 9. What 's the third Thing intended in this Petition A. That God may not only glorify his own Name and use us to glorifie it but that it should be our endeavour and joy to have it glorfied by others all the World over Psal. 145.4 5 6. One generation shall praise thy works to another and shall declare thy mighty acts I will speak of the glorious honour of thy majesty and of thy wondrous works And men shall speak of the might of thy terrible acts and I will declare thy greatness Q. 10. Why must our Hearts be so intently set upon the Sanctification of Gods Name A. Because this is the ultimate end of our own and every other being Rom. 11.36 for of him and through him and to him arâ— all things to whom be glory for ever Amen And the particular end of God in our Effectual calling 1 Pet. 2.9 But ye are a chosen generation a Royal Priest-hood an holy nation a peculiar people that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light Q. 11. What 's the first Inference from hence A. That the dishonour of Gods Name must needs be a cutting Affliction to a gracious Soul Psal. 42.10 As with a sword in my bones my enemies reproach me while they say dayly unto me where is their God Q. 12. What 's the second Inference from hence A. That it is a dreadful infatuation and spiritual judgment upon those men that think they glorifie God in doing those things which his Soul hateth Isa. 66.5 Hear the word of the Lord ye that tremble at his word your brethren that hated you that cast you out for my names sake said let the Lord be glorified but he shall appear to your joy and they shall be ashamed And Iohn 16.2 They shall put you out of the Synagogues yea the time cometh that whosoever killeth you will think that he doth God service Q. 13. What is the third Inference from hence A. That it should be indifferent to a
the doing of this Will of Providence in Heaven A. 1. As 't is done by the Sun Moon and Stars Psal. 119.89 Thy word is setled in heaven Vers 91. They continue this day according to thine ordinances Psal. 19.6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven and his circuit unto the ends of it and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof 2. As 't is done by Angels Psal. 104.4 Who maketh the angels spirits his ministers a flaming fire Heb. 1. ult Are they not all ministring spirits sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation Q. 4. How do these perform the Will of Gods Providence A. 1. The Heavenly bodies do it evenly constantly and unweariedly Psal. 104.19 He appointeth the moon for seasons the sun knoweth his going down 2. The Angels do speedily voluntarily chearfully and so knowingly Psal. 103.21 Ye ministers of his that do his pleasure Q. 5. Must we be agents in this Providential Will A. Yes we must Acts 13.36 For David after he had served his generation by the will of God fell on sleep Q. 6. How must we do it A. By imploying our abilities faculties and interests in the Duties of our particular Callings and by moving constantly prudently and vigorously in our own sphere and so imitate those in Heaven Q. 7. Why do we pray that Gods Will of Providence may be done by us A. Because we are his Creatures and the most noble instruments of the inferiour World and therefore we should be willing to be acted by him and active for him and because this Will of Providence is alwayes just good and true and for his own Glory Psal. 145.17 The Lord is righteous in all his wayes and holy in all his works Psal. 119.89 For ever O Lord thy word is setled in heaven Ver. 91. They continue this day according to thine ordinances for all are thy servants Q. 8. What other Will of God is here meant A. The Will of his Precepts and this is chiefly intended Q. 9. And how is this Will of God done in Heaven A. By the Angels 't is done universally chearfully constantly humbly thankfully loyally readily Psal. 103.20 Bless the Lord ye his angels that excel in strength that do his commandments hearkening unto the voice of his word And so 't is done by the Saints in Heaven Rev. 7.15 Therefore are they before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple And 22.3 And his servants shall serve him Q. 10. Do we pray then that we may thus do the Will of God A. Yes for though we cannot perfectly without sin do it yet that is our Duty Matth. 5. ult Be ye therefore perfect even as your father which is in heaven is perfect And in all other particulars we may and we must imitate them herein Psal. 119.6 Then shall I not be ashamed when I have respect unto all thy commandments Ver. 14. I have rejoyced in the way of thy testimonies as much as in all riches Ver. 60. I made hasâ—e and delayed not to keep thy commandments Ver. 112. c. I have inclined my heart to perform thy statutes alway even unto the end Q. 11. How must we know Gods Will A. Not notionally and rationally only but spiritually also 1 Cor. 2.14 They are spiritually discerned Q. 12. Why is knowing Gods will placed here before doing it c. A. Because the Understanding is the leading Faculty without which 't is impossible there should be any Obedience Prov. 19.2 Also that the soul be without knowledge it is not good Jer. 5.4 Therefore I said surely these are poor they are foolish for they know not the way of the Lord nor the judgment of their God Q. 13. Why pray we to God for this knowledge can we not know it of our selves A. No 't is the special gift and grace of God Gal. 1.15 16. But when it pleased God who separated me from my mothers womb and called me by his grace to reveal his son in me that I might preach him among the heathen immediateâ—y I conferred not with flesh and blood Eph. 1.17 19. That the God of our Lord Iesus Christ the father of glory may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us ward who believe according to the working of his mighty power Eph. 5.8 For ye were sometimes darkness but now are ye light in the Lord. Q. 14. Why do we pray that we may obey can we not do it of our own free will when we know it A. No for our Wills are stubborn and rebellious against Gods Commands as well as our Minds ignorant of them 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 Ezek. 36.25 26. Then will I sprinkle clean water upon you and ye shall be clean from all your filthiness and from all your idols will I cleanse you 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 Phil. 2.13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure Q. 15. What is meant by submitting to Gods Will A. 1. Either a voluntary subjection of Soul and a preparedness actually to do his Will Or 2. a voluntary and silent submission to his Will of Providence in affliction but in this particular we cannot imitate those in Heaven because no cross ever befals them Q. 16. Why is Will added in all things A. Because partial Obedience is no Obedience he that does not obey God in every thing obeys him in nothing Iam. 2.10 For whosoever shall keep the whole law and yet offend in one point he is guilty of all Q. 17. Why do we pray that God by his Grace would work this Will in us and by us A. Because 't is Free-grace that determines it 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 Iesus before the world began And efficacious Grace that works it in us and enables us to do it Eph. 5.8 For ye were sometimes darkness but now are ye light in the Lord. Ver. 10. Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. Q. 18. What is the first Inference from hence A. That 't is Mans glory and felicity to be conformed to the Will of God Prov. 12.26 The righteous is more excellent than his neighbour Psal. 19.10 11. More to be desired are they than gold yea then much fine gold sweeter also then honey and the honey-comb Moreover by them is thy servant warned and in keeping of them there is great reward Q. 19. What is the second Inference A. That we must mortifie
us richly all things to enjoy Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come that they may lay hold on eternal life Q. 17. Wherefore is the Bread called our Bread A. Not because we are absolute Lords and Possessors of it for so 't is Gods only Psal. 24.1 2. The earth is the Lords and the fulness thereof the world and they that dwell therein For he hath founded it upon the Seas and estabilished it upod the floods Psal. 50.10 12. for every beast of the forrest is mine and the cattle upon a thousand hills If I were hungry I would not tell thee for the world is mine and the fulness thereof But 1. Because we must have a Covenant right to it and 2. A civil right we must come lawfully and honestly by and so keep the good things of this life 2 Thes. 3.10 For even when we were with you this we commanded you that if any would not work neither should â—e eat Q. 18. Having prayed for our daily Bread need we to labour and endeavour to get it A. Yes we must labour in good and honest callings Gods blessing and Mans industry must concur towards the present maintenance of life Psal. 128.1 2. Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord that walketh in his ways for thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands happy shalt thou be and it shall be well with thee Prov. 10.4 22. He becometh poor that dealeth with aslack hand but the hand of the diligent maketh rich The blessing of the Lord maketh rich and he addeth no sorrow with it Q. 19. What is the first Inference from it A. That we must not seek great matters for our selves neither make them the matter of prayer to God nor the end and design of our labours and callings among Men. Q. 20. What is a second Inference from hence A. That having Food and Rayment we must be therewith content and therefore thankful 1 Tim. 6.8 And having food and rayment let us be therewith content 1 Thes. 5.18 In every thing give thanks Q. 21. What is the third Inference A. That we ascribe not our success in the World to our own skill and industry for the wisest and most industrious do sometimes labour in the fire and put their gain in a bag of holes but to Gods free donation to us and to his Blessing upon our endeavours Gen. 33.5 11. And he lift up his eyes and saw the the women and the children and said who are those with thee And he said the children which God hath graciously given thy Servant Take I pray thee my blessing that is brought to thee because God hath dealt graciously with me and because I have enough Deut 28.3 Blessed shalt thou be in the city and blessed shalt thou be in the field ver 6. Blessed shalt thou when thou comest in and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out Concerning forgiveness of Sins Quest. 105. WHat doth we pray for in the fifth Petition A. In the fifth Petition which is and forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors we pray that God for Christs sake would freely pardon all our Sins which we are the rather encouraged to ask because by this grace we are enabled from the heart to forgive others Q. 1. Why doth this Petition immediately follow the former A. To teach that all temporal and corporal good things without special and Spiritual ones are little worth Psal. 4.6 There be many that say who will shew us any good Lord lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us Psal. 17.14 15. From men which are thy hand O Lord from men of the world which have their portion in this life and whose belly thou fillest with thy hid treasure they are full of children and leave the rest of their substance to their babes As for me I will behold thy face in righteousness I shall be satisfied when I awake with thy likeness Q. 2. Why is it annexed to the former with the Copulative and A. To teach that to be one minute in the confluence of all earthly good things without the pardon of Sin is a very dangerous and dreadful condition Luke 12.16 20. And he spake a parable unto them saying the ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully but God said unto him thou fool this night shall thy soul be required of thee then whose shall those things be which thou hast provided Q. 3. Why is forgiveness of Sins placed in the front of spiritual Blessings A. Because till sin be pardoned we are under wrath and can have no special saving Grace applyed to us till we are accepted till we are in Christ we have no Covenant right to the blessings of Christ Matt. 11.28 come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest ver 30. for my yoke is easie and my burden is light John 15.4 5. abide in me and I in you as the branch cannot bear fruit of it self except it abide in the Vine no more can ye except ye abide in me I am the Vine ye are the branches He that abideth in me and I in him the same bringeth forth much fruit for without me ye can do nothing ver 7. if ye abide in me and my words abide in you ye shall ask what ye will and it shall be done unto you John 3. ult He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life but the wrath of God abideth on him Q. 4. Why do we pray for forgiveness cannot we make amends for our sins and be freed from their guilt without pardon A. No all that we can ever do or suffer can never expiate the guilt of the least sin Psal. 49.7 8. None of them can by any means redeem his brother nor give to God a ransom for him For the redemption of their soul is precious and it ceaseth for ever 1 Sam. 2.25 If one man sin against another the judge shall judge him but if a man sin against the Lord who shall entreat for him Q 5. Does God then freely and out of meer Grace forgive us A. Yes without any respect had to any thing we can do or be Isa. 43.25 I even I am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for my own sake and will not remember thy sins Rom. 9.15 I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion Ver. 18. Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy and whom he will be hardneth Q. 6. How doth God forgive sins A. 1. Universally all sins Exod. 34.6 7. And the Lord passed by before him and proclaimed the Lord the Lord God merciful and gracious long suffering and abundant in goodness and truth keeping mercy for thousands forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin Jer. 33.8 And I will cleanse them from all their iniquity whereby they have
Gentiles granted repentance unto life Q. 9. What are the signs of true repentance A. Fear of sin care to preserve our selves from it and zeal to honour God by new obedience 2 Cor. 7.11 For behold this self same thing that ye sorrowed after a godly sort what carefulness is wrought it 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 Q. 10. Is there a necessity of Repentance in order to forgiveness A. Yes there is and they are therefore conjoyned in Scripture Acts 5.31 For to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins And destruction threatned to the impenitent Luk. 13.3 Except ye repent ye shall all likewise perish Q. 11. What 's the first Inference hence A. That it 's a false Doctrine which teaches us that sins are actually forgiven from Eternity and therefore no need either of Repentance or Prayer save only for the manifestation of Pardon Q. 12. What 's the second Inference hence A. That an hard Heart is a dreadful sign of a lost state of Soul Rom. 2.5 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thy self wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God Q. 13. What 's the last Inference hence A. That there is no cause to despair of the vilest sinner seeing there is power enough in the Spirit of God to break the hardest heart Ezek. 36.26 I will take away the stoâ—y heart oâ—â— of your flesh and I will give you an heart of flesh Of Christs Ordinances Quest. 88. 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 Q. 1. What makes any thing become a Divine Ordinance A. The institution or appointment of God is that alone which makes a Divine Ordinance Matth. 28.20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you c. Q. 2. Are the institutions of all Ordinances alike clear in Scripture A. No some are more explicitly and clearly revealed in Scripture than others as the Lords Supper more clear than Baptism but whatever hath Scripture warrant in the words or consequence is of divine appointment Q. 3. May not men institute Ordinances of Divine Worship A. No this in Scripture is condemned as Will-worship Col. 2.20 22 23. Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world why as though living in the world are ye subject to ordinances c. Which things indeed have a shew of wisdom in will-worship c. Q. 4. Why cannot man institute a Divine Ordinance A. He cannot do it because it 's the prerogative belonging to Christs Kingly Office Matth. 28.20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you Q. 5. For what other reason cannot man do it A. Because he cannot bless them and make them effectual to their ends but they will be in vain Matth. 15.9 But in vain do they worship me teaching for doctrines the commandments of men Q. 6. Why are the Ordinances called means of Salvation A. Because by and through them the Spirit of the Lord conveys Spiritual Graces into Mens Souls 1 Cor. 1.21 It pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe 1 Cor. 3.5 Not that we are sufficient of our selves to think any thing as of our selves but our sufficiency is of God Q. 7. Whence is the vertue of Ordinances A. 'T is not in and from themselves or the gifts and abilities of him that administers them but from the Blessing and Spirit of the Lord 1 Cor. 3.7 Neither is he that planteth any thing neither he that watereth but God that giveth the increase Q. 8. Do all Gods Ordinances attain their end A. Yes there is none of them in vain but do attain their end in the Salvation or Damnation of all that come under them Isa. 55.10 11. For as the rain cometh down and the snow from heaven and returneth not thither but watereth the earth and maketh it bring forth and bâ—d that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth it shall not return â—nto me void but it shall accomplish that which I please and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I send it 2 Cor. 2.15 16. For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ in them that are saved and in them that perish To the one we are the savour of death unto death and to the other the savour of life unto life c. Q. 9. Are instituted Ordinances the only means of Salvation A. They are not the only means for God can convert Men to Christ without them Acts 9.4 5. And he fell to the earth and heard a voice saying unto him Saul Saul why persecutest thou me And he said who art thou Lord and the Lord said I am Iesus whom thou persecutest It is hard for thee to kick against the pricks But they are the ordinary standing means Rom. 10.14 15. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard and how shall they hear without a preacher and how shall they preach except they be sent c. Q. 10. To whom are the Ordinances made effectual to Salvation A. To all Gods elect they are effectual to Salvation and to them only Acts 13.48 As many as were ordained to eternal life believed John 10.26 But ye believe not because ye are not of my sheep c. Q. 11. What 's the first instruction from hence A. That great preparation is due to all the Ordinances before we engage in them Iob 11.13 14. If thou prepare thine heart and stretch out thy hand towards him If iniquity be in thine hand put it far away and let not wickedness dwell in thy tabernacles 1 Chron. 29.18 And prepare their heart unto thee Q. 12. What 's the second Inference from hence A. That great Reverence is due to Gods Ordinances when we are actually engaged in the use of them Psal. 89.7 God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him Q. 13. What 's the third Inference from hence A. That those people that want Ordinances are in a sad and deplorable condition Eph. 2.11 12. Wherefore remember that ye being in time passed Gentiles in the flesh who are called uncircumcision by that which is called the circumcision in the flesh made by hands that at that time ye were without Christ being aliens from the common-wealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise having
no hope and without God in the world Q. 14. Wâ—at â—s the last Instruction hence A. That those that perish in the midst of Ordinances and means of Salvation will perish with aggravated perdition Matth. 11.23 And thou Capernaum which art exalted unto heaven shalt be brought down to hell for if the mighty works which have been done in thee had been done in Sodom it would have remained until this day Of the Word read and heard Quest. 89. HOw is the Word made effectual to Salvation A. The Spirit of God maketh the reading but especially the preaching of the Word an effectual means of convincing and converting sinners and building them up in holiness and comfort through Faith unto Salvation Q. 1. What mean you by the Word A. By the Word is meant the Word of God consigned to writing in the Books of the Old and New Testament which though it be ministred by men yet it is no other than the very Word of God and as such to be received 1 Thess. 2.13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing because when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us ye received it not as the word of men but as it is in truth the word of God c. Q. 2. Whence is the efficacy of this Word A. It is wholly from the Spirit of God that it becomes effectual to any mans Salvation 1 Cor. 3 6 7. I have planted and Apollo watered but God gave the increase So then neither is he that planteth any thing neither he that watereth but God that giveth the increase Q. 3. Is the reading of the Scripture an Ordinance of God for mens Salvation A. Yes it is Deut. 17.19 And it shall be with him and he shall read therein all the dayes of his life that he may learn to fear the Lord his God to keep all the words of this law and these statutes to do them And in reading of it God sometimes comes in by his Spirit to mens conversion Acts 8.27 28 29. And he arose and went and behold a man of Ethiopia an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians who had the charge of all her treasure and had come to Ierusalem for to worship was returning and sitting in his chariot read Isaias the prophet Then the spirit said to Philip go near and joyn thy self to his chariot c. Q. 4. Is the hearing of the Word a means of Salvation A. Yes it is Isa. 55.3 Incline your ear and come unto me hear and your soul shall live c. 1 Cor. 1.21 It pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe Q. 5. To what end is the Word useful to men A. The first end and use of the Word is to convince men of their sin and misery out of Christ 1 Cor 14.24 25. But if all prophesie and there come in one that believeth not or one unlearned he is convinced of all he is judged of all And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest c. Q. 6. What is it useful for besides conviction A. 'T is useful for conversion as well as conviction Psal. 19.7 The law of the Lord is perfect converting the soul c. Acts 26.18 To turn them from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God c Q. 7. Doth the Word convince and convert all that hear it A. No but those only that are ordained to Eternal Life Acts 13.48 As many as were ordained to eternal life believed Q. 8. What else is the Word useful for A. To build up the Saints to perfection in Christ Eph. 4.11 12 13. And he gave some apostles and some prophets and some evangelists and some pastours and teachers for the perfecting of the saints for the work of the ministry for the edifying of the body of Christ Till we all come in the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the son of God unto a perfect man unto the measure of the stature of the fulness in Christ. Acts 20.32 And now brethren I commend you to God and to the word of his grace which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all them that are sanctified Q. 9. May the common people read the Scriptures A. Yes 't is a duty commanded by Christ Ioh. 5.39 Search the scriptures c. and commended by the Apostle Acts 17.11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica in that they received the word with all readiness of mind and searched the scriptures dayly whether those things were so Q. 10. Is it their duty or liberty also to preach it A. No it is not for besides abilities for that work there must be a call Rom. 10.14 15. How shall they hear without a preacher and how shall they preach except they be sent c. Q. 11. What 's the first Instruction from hence A. That the enjoyments of the Scripture and an able faithful Ministry to expound and apply them is a special Mercy to any people Psal. 147.19 20. He sheweth his word unto Iacob his statutes and judgments unto Israel he hath not dealt so with any nation and as for his judgments they have not knows them Q. 12. What 's the second Instruction A. That men cannot expect Special and Spiritual Blessings from God in the wilful neglect of the Ordinances Prov. 28.9 He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law even his prayer shall be abomination Q. 13. What 's the third Inference A. That sad is their condition who sit all their dayes under the Word to no purpose at all 2 Cor. 4.3 4. If our gospel be hid it is hid to them that are lost In whom the God of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ who is the image of God should shine into them Q. 14. What 's the last Inference A. That Christs Ordinances and Ministers should be most welcome to the people to whom God sends them Isa. 52.7 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings that publisheth peace that publisheth salvation that saith unto Zion thy God reigneth Of the manner of Hearing Quest. 90. HOw is the Word to be read and heard that it may become effectual to Salvation A. That the Word may become effectual to Salvation we must attend thereunto with Diligence Preparation and Prayer receive it with Faith and Love lay it up in our Hearts and practise it in our Lives Q. 1. If the matter we read or hear be good is not that enough for our salvation A. No God requires that the Word be read and heard in a due manner and the manner of hearing is of special regard with God Luke 8.18 Take â—eed therefore how ye hear c. Q. 2. How many things belong to the due manner of hearing A. Three sorts of Duties belong to it some antecedent as preparation