The confession of faith, together with the larger and lesser catechismes. Composed by the reverend Assembly of Divines, sitting at Westminster, presented to both Houses of Parliament. Again published with the Scriptures at large, and the emphasis of the Scriptures in a different character. To which is annexed two sheets of Church-government with the Scriptures at large. — Westminster Confession of Faith.

1658

THE CONFESSION OF FAITH, Together with The LARGER and LESSER Catechismes.

Composed by the Reverend ASSEMBLY OF DIVINES, Sitting at WESTMINSTER, Presented to both Houses of Parliament.

Again Published with the Scriptures at large, and the Emphasis of the Scriptures in a different Character.

To which is annexed two sheets of Church-Government with the SCRIPTURES at large. [The second Edition.]

Deut. 6. 6, 7. And these words which I command thee this day, shall be in thy heart, and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou fittest in thy house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.

London, Printed by E. M. for the Company of Stationers, and are to be sold by John Rothwel at the Fountain in Cheapside 1658.

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The LARGER CATECHISM Agreed upon by the ASSEMBLY of DIVINES At VVESTMINSTER.

Quest. WHat is the chief and highest end of man?

A. Mans Chief and Highest End, is, to glorifie God Rom. 11. 36. For of him, and through him, and to him are all things, to whom be glory for ever, Amen. 1 Cor. 10. 31. Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God,, and fully to enjoy him for ever Psal. 73. 24. to the end. Thou shalt guide me with thy counsels, and afterwards receive me to glory; Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none on earth that I desire besides thee. My flesh and my heart fail, but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever. For lo, they that are far from thee shall perish, thou shalt destroy all them that go a whoring from thee; but it is good for me to draw nigh to God; I have put my trust in the Lord God, that I may declare all thy works. John 17. 21, 22, 23. That they all may be one as thou Father art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me; and the glory which thou gavest me have I given them, that they may be one, even as we are one, I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me..

Quest. How doth it appear, that there is a God?

Ans. The very light of Nature in man, and the works of God, declare that there is a God Rom. 1. 19, 20. Because that which may be known of God, is manifest in them, for God hath shewed it unto them; For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world, are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse. Psal. 19. 1, 2, 3. The heavens declare the glory of God, and the Firmament sheweth his handy-work. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth Knowledge. There is no speech nor language where their voice is not heard. Acts 17. 28. For in him we live, and move, and have our being., but his Word [Page 152] and Spirit only, do sufficiently, and effectually reveal him unto men for their salvation 1 Cor. 3. 9, 10. But as it is written, Eye hath not se [...]n, nor ear heard, neither hath it entred into the heart of man, the things that God hath prepared for them that love him: But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit, for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea the deep things of God. 2 Tim. 3. 15, 16, 17. And that from a child thou hast known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, & is profitable for, doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. Isai. 59. 21. As for me, this is my Covenant with thee, saith the Lord, my Spirit which is upon thee, & my words which I have put into thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out of the mouth of thy Seeds seed, saith the Lord, from henceforth and for ever..

Q. What is the word of God?

A. The Holy Scriptures of the old and new Testament are the Word of God 2 Tim. 3. 16. All Scripture is given by inspiration. 2 Pet. 1. 19, 20. We have also a more sure word of Prophecy, whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, untill the day dawn, and the day-star arise in your hearts, V. 20.] Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the Scripture is of any private interpretation, V. 21.] For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man, but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost., the only rule of Faith and Obedience Eph. 2. 20. And are built upon the foundation of the Apostles, and Prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone. Rev. 22. 18, 19. For I testifie unto every man, that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, if any man shall adde unto these things, God shall adde unto him the plagues that are written in this book. V. 19.] And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this Prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. Isa. 8. 20. To the Law and to the Testimony, if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Luke 16. 29, 31. They have Moses and the Prophets, let them hear them: if they believe not Moses and the Prophets neither will they be perswaded though one rose from the dead. Gal. 1. 8, 9. But though we or angel from heaven, preach any other Gospel unto you, then that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other Gospel unto you, then that ye have received, let him be accursed. 2 Tim. 3. 15, 16. Before.

Q. How doth it appear that the Scriptures are the word of God?

A. The Scriptures manifest themselves to be the word of God by their Majesty Hos. 8. 12. I have written to them the great things of my law, but they were counted as a strange thing. 1 Cor. 2. 6, 7, 13. Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect, yet not the wisdom of this World, nor of the Princes of this World that come to nought, but we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory. Which things also we speak, not in the words which mans wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth, comparing spiritual things with spiritual. Psal. 119. 18, 129. Open thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law. Thy Testimonies are wonderful therefore doth my soul keep them., and Purity Psal. 12. 6. The words of the Lord are pure words, as silver tried in a furnace of earth; purified seven times. Psal. 119. 140. Thy word is very pure, therefore thy servant loveth it.; by the consent [Page 153] of all the parts Act. 10. 43. To him give all the Prophets witness, that through his name, whosoever believeth in him, shall receive remission of sins. Act. 26. 22. Having therefore obtained help of God, I continue unto this day, witnessing both to small and great, saying none other things then those which the Prophets and Moses did say should come., and the scope of the whole, which is to give all glory to God Rom. 3. 19. Now we know that what things soever the Law saith, it saith to them who are under the Law, that every mouth may be stopped, and all the World become guilty before God.; by their light and power to convince and convert sinners, to comfort and build up believers to salvation Act. 18. 28. For he mightily convinced the Jews, and that publickly shewing by the Scripture that Jesus was Christ. Heb. 4. 12. For the word of God is quick & powerful, and sharper then any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. I am. 1. 18. Of his own will begat he us, with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first fruits of his creatures. Psal. 19. 7, 8, 9. The Law of the Lord is perfect converting the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple: the statutes of the Lord are right, rejoycing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightning the eyes: the fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: the judgements of the Lord are true, and righteous altogether. Rom. 15. 4. For whatsoever things were written afore time, were written for our learning, that we, through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. Acts 20. 32. And now Brethren I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.: but the Spirit of bearing witness by and with the Scriptures in the heart of man, is alone able fully to perswade it that they are the very word of God Joh. 16. 13, 14. Howbeit when He the Spirit of Truth is come, He will guide you into all Truth, for He shall not speak of himself, but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall He speak, and He will shew you things to come. 1 John 2. 20. 27. But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things. V. 27.] But the anointing which ye have received of Him, abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you, but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you ye shall abide in him. John 20. 31. But these are written that ye might believe, that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing ye might have life through his name..

Q. What do the Scriptures principally teach?

A. The Scriptures principally teach, what man is to believe concerning God, and what duty God requires of man 2 Tim. 1. 13. Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in Faith and Love which is in Christ Jesus..

Q. What do the Scriptures make known of God?

A The Scriptures make known what God is Heb. 11. 6. But without faith it is impossible to please God, for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him., the Persons in the Godhead 1 John 5. 7. For there are three; that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost, and these three are One., the Decrees Act. 15. 14, 15, 18. Simeon hath declared, how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name V. 15.] And to this agree the words of the Prophets as 'tis written V. 18.] Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the World., [Page 154] and the execution of His Decrees Acts 4. 27, 28. For of a truth against the holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod and Pontius Pilate with the Gentiles and the people of Israel were gathered together. V. 28.] For to do whatsoever thy hand, and thy counc [...]l d [...]termin [...]d before to be done..

Q. What is God?

A. God is a Spirit Joh. 4. 24. God is a Spirit, and they that worship him must worsh [...]p him in Spirit and Truth., in and of himself infinite in Being 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. Job 11. 7, 8, 9. Canst thou by searching find out God? canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection? it is as high as Heaven, what canst thou do? deeper then Hell, what canst thou know? the measure thereof is longer then the earth, and broader then the sea., Glory Act. 7. 2. The God of Glory appeared unto our Father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia before he dwelt in Charran., Blessedness 1 Tim. 6. 15. Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of Kings, and Lord of Lords., and Perfection Mat. 5. 48. Be ye therefore perfect even as your Father who is in Heaven is perfect., Allsufficient Gen. 17. 1. When Abram was ninety years old and nine, the Lord appeared to Abram and said to him, I am God All sufficient: walk before me and be thou perfect., Eternal Psal. 90. 2. Before the Mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting thou art God., Unchangeable Mal. 3. 6. For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye the sons of Jacob are not consumed. Jam. 1. 17. Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning., Incomprehensible 1 King. 8. 27. But will God indeed dwell on the earth? behold the heaven and heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much lesse this house that I have built., Every where present Psal. 139. 1. to 13. O Lord thou hast searched me and known me; thou knowest my down sitting and mine up-rising, and thou understandest my thoughts afar off, &c. Whither shall I flee from thy presence?, Almighty Rev. 4. 8. And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him; and they were full of eyes within; and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come., Knowing all things Heb. 4. 13. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight; but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. Psal. 147. 5. Great is the Lord and of great power; his understanding is infinite., Most wise Rom. 16. 27. To God only wise be glory through Jesus Christ, for ever. Amen., Most Holy Isa. 6. 3. And one cryed unto another and said, Holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory. Rev. 15. 4. Who shall not fear thee O Lord and glorifie thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee, for thy judgements are made manifest., Most Just Deut. 32. 4. He is the rock; his work is perfect: for all his wayes are judgement; a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he., Most Merciful and gracious, Long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth. (i) Exod. 34. 6. The Lord passed by before him and proclaimed, the Lord, the Lord God, merciful and gracious, long-suffering and abundant in goodnss and truth.

Q Are there more Gods then one?

A. There is but one onely, the living and true God Deut. 6. 4. Hear O Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord. 1 Cor. 8. 4. 6. As concerning therefore the eating of things offered in sacrifice to Idols, we know that an Idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one.—But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things and we in him, and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things and we by him. Jer. 10. 10. But the Lord is the true God, he is the living God, and an everlasting King; at his wrath the earth shall tremble, and the nations shall not be able to abide his indignation.,

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Q. How many persons are there in the Godhead?

A. There be three persons in the Godhead the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; and these three are one, true, eternal God, the same in substance, equal in power and glory; although distinguished by their personal properties 1 John 5. 7. For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one, Mat. 3. 16, 17. And Jesus when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water, and loe the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a Dove and lighting upon him. And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased. Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. 2 Cor. 13. 14. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost be with you all. Amen. Joh. 10. 30. I and my Father are one..

Q. What are the personal properties of the three Persons in the Godhead?

A. It is proper to the Father to beget the Son Heb. 1. 5, 6. 8. For unto which of the Angels said he at any time, Thou art my son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to Him a Father, and He shall be to me a Son. And again when he brings in the first begotten into the world, he saith, And let all the Angels of God worship him—But unto the Son he saith, Thy Throne, O God, is for ever and ever; a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of thy Kingdom., and to the Son to be begotten of the Father John 1. 14, 18. And the word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth.—No man hath seen God at any time: The onely begotten Son which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him., and to the Holy Ghost to proceed from the Father and Son from all eternity Joh. 15. 26 But when the Comforter is come whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of Truth which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testifie of me, Gal. 4. 6. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father..

Q. How doth it appear that the Son and the Holy Ghost are God equal with the Father?

A. The Scriptures manifest, that the Son and the Holy Ghost are God equall with the Father, ascribing unto them such names Isai. 6. 3, 5-8. And one cried unto another and said, Holy, holy, holy is the Lord, of Hosts, the whole earth is full of his glory—Then said I Woe is me for I am undone, because I am a man of unclean lips, for mine eyes have seen the King the Lord of Hosts!—Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send? and who will go for us? then I said, here am I, send me. This compared with Joh. 12. 41. These things said Esaias, when he saw His glory, and spake of Him. And with Act 28. 25. And when they agreed not among themselves they departed, after that Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by Esaias the Prophet to our Fathers. 1 Joh. 5. 20. And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true; and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ; this is the true God and eternal life. Act. 5. 3, 4. But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thine heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? whiles it remained, was it not thine own? and after it was sold, was it not in thine own power? why hast thou conceived this thing in thy heart? thou hast not lied unto men, but unto God., attributes [Page 156] John 1. 1. In the beginning was the word, and the word was with God, and the word was God. Isai. 9. 6. For unto us a Son is born, unto us a child is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of peace. Joh. 2. 24. 25. But Jesus did not commit himself unto them; because he knew all men, and needed not that any should testifie of man; for he knew what was in man. 1 Cor. 2. 10, 11. But God hath revealed them to us by his Spirit; for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man save the spirit of man that is in him? even so the things of God knows no man, but the Spirit of God., works Col. 1. 16. For by him were all things created, that are in heaven and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be Thrones or Dominions, or Principalities, or Powers; all things were created by him and for him. Gen. 1. 2. And the earth was without form and void, and darkness was upon the face of the earth, and the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters., and worship Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. 2 Cor. 13. 14. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the Communion of the Holy Ghost be with you all, Amen., are proper to God onely.

Q. What are the Decrees of God?

A. God's Decrees are the wise, free, and holy acts of the counsel of his will Ephes. 4. 11. In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being Predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will. Rom. 11. 33. O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgements and his wayes past finding out! Rom. 9. 14, 15, 18. What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid. For he saith to Moses, I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion.—Therefore he hath mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth., whereby from all eternity he hath for his own glory, unchangeably fore-ordained whatsoever comes to pass in time Eph. 1. 4, 11. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love.—In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him, who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will. Rom. 9. 22, 23. What if God, willing to shew his wrath and to make his power known, endured with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction, and that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had before prepared unto glory? Psal. 33. 11. The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever; the thoughts of his heart unto all generations., especially concerning Angels and men.

Q. What hath God especially decreed concerning Angels and men.

A. God by an eternal and immutable decree, out of his meer love, for the praise of his glorious grace to be manifested in due time, hath elected some Angels to glory 1 T [...]m. 5. 21. I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect Angels, that thou observe these things without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality., and in Christ hath chosen some men to eternal [Page 157] life, and the means thereof Eph. 1. 4, 5, 6. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundations of the world; that we should be holy and without blame before him in love, having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ, to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, to the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. 2 Thes. 2. 13, 14. But we are bound to give thanks to God alway for you, Brethren, beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth; whereunto he called you by our Gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ:, and also according to his sovereign power, and the unsearchable counsel of his own will, (whereby he extendeth, or withholdeth favour, as he pleaseth) hath passed by & fore-ordained the rest to dishonour and wrath, to be for their sin inflicted, to the praise of the glory of his justice Rom. 9. 17, 18-21, 22. For the Scripture saith unto Pharaoh, even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth. Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy, and whom he will he hardeneth—Hath not the Potter power over his clay of the same lump to make one vessell unto honour and another unto dishonour? What if God willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction? Matth. 11. 25, 26. At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank Thee, O Father, Lord of Heaven & Earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise & the prudent, and hast revealed them unto Babes. Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in thy sight. 2 Tim. 2. 20. But in a great house there are not onely vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth, and some to honor and some to dishonor. Jude v. 4. For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of God into wantonness, denying the onely God and our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Pet. 2. 8. And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence to them that stumble at the word, being disobedient, whereunto also they were appointed..

Q. How doth God execute his Decrees?

A. God executeth his Decrees in the works of Creation and Providence; according to his infallible fore-knowledge, and the free and immutable counsel of his own will Ephes. 1. 11. In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of Him, who worketh all things according to the counsel of his own will..

Q. What is the work of Creation?

A. The work of Creation is that, wherein God did in the beginning, by the Word of his power, make of nothing, the World and all things therein, for himself, within the space of six dayes, and all very good Gen. 1. Heb. 11. 3. Through faith we understand that the Worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen, were not made of things which do appear. Prov. 16. 4. The Lord hath made all things for himself, yea even the wicked for the day of evill..

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Q. How did God create Angels?

A. God created all the Angels Col. 1. 16. For by him were all things created that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be Thrones, or Dominions, or Principalities, or Powers, all things were created by him and for him., Spirits Psal. 104. 4. Who maketh his Angels Spirits, his Ministers a flame of fire., Immortal Mat. 22. 30. For in the Resurrection they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are as the Angels of God in heaven., Holy Matth. 25. 31. When the Son of Man shall come in his glory, and all the holy Angels with him, then shall he sit upon the Throne of his glory., excelling in knowledge 2 Sam. 14. 17. Then thine handmaid said, The word of my Lord the King shall now be comfortable: for, as an Angel of God, so is my Lord the King, to discern good and bad; therefore the Lord thy God will be with thee. Matth. 24. 36. But of that day and hour knoweth no man▪ no not the Angels of heaven, but my Father onely., mighty in power 2 Thess. 1. 7. And to you who are troubled, rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty Angels., to execute his Commandments, and to praise his Name Psal. 103. 20, 21. Blesse the Lord ye his Angels, that excell in strength, and do his commandments, hearkning to the voice of his word. Blesse the Lord all ye his Hosts, ye Ministers of his that do his pleasure., yet subject to change 2 Pet. 2. 4. For if God spared not the Angels that sinned, but cast them down to Hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness to be reserved unto judgment—.

Q. How did God create Man?

A. After God had made all other creatures, He created man male and female Gen. 1. 27. So God created Man in His own Image, in the Image of God created He him; Male and Female created He them., formed the body of the man of the dust of the ground Gen. 2. 7. And the Lord God formed Man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life., and the woman of the rib of the man Gen. 2. 22. And the rib which the Lord had taken from man, made He a woman, and brought her unto the man., indued them with living, reasonable, and immortal souls Gen. 2. 7. And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life. and man became a living soul. Compare this with Job 35. 11. Who teacheth us more then the beasts of the earth, and makes us wiser then the fowls of heaven. And with Eccl. 12. 7. Then shall the dust return to the earth, as it was, and the Spirit shall return to God who gave it. And with Matth. 10. 28. Fear not them who can kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul; but rather fear him who is able to destroy both body & soul in hell. And with Luke 23. 43. And Jesus said unto him, To day shalt thou be with me in Paradise., made them after his own image Gen. 1. 27. So God created man in his His own Image, in the Image of God created He him, male and female created he them., in knowledge Col. 3. 10. And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge, after the Image of Him that created him., righteousnesse, and holinesse Eph. 4. 24. And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousnesse and true holinesse., having the Law of God written in their hearts Rom. 2. 14, 15. For when the Gentiles who have not the Law, do by nature the things contained in the Law; these having not the Law, are a Law unto themselves; which shew the work of the Law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witnesse, and their thoughts the mean while accusing, or else excusing one another., and power to fulfill it Eccl. 7. 29. Lo this onely have I found, that God hath made man upright, but they have sought out many inventions., with dominion over the creatures [Page 159] Gen. 1. 28. And God blessed them and said unto them, Be friutful, and multiply and replenish the earth, and subdue it, and have dominion over the fi [...]h of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth., yet subject to fall Gen. 3. 6. And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her, and he did eat. Eccl. 7. 29. Lo this only have I found, that God made man upright, but they sought out many inventions..

Q. What are Gods works of Providence?

A. Gods works of Providence are his most holy Psal. 145. 17. The Lord is righteous in all his wayes, and holy in all his works., wise Psal. 104. 24. O Lord how manifold are thy works! in wisdom hast thou made them all; the earth is full of thy riches. Isa. 28, 29. This also cometh from the Lord of hosts, who is wonderful in counselling and excellent in working., and powerful preserving Heb. 1. 3. Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sate down on the right h [...]nd of the Majesty on high., and governing all his creatures Psal. 103. 19. The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens, and his Kingdom ruleth over all., ordering them and all their actions Mat. 10. 29, 30, 31. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing, and one of them shall not fall to the ground without your Father? but the very haires of your head are all numbred. Fear not therefore ye are of more value then many sparrowes. Gen. 45. 7. And God s [...]nt me before you, to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance., to his own glory Rom. 11. 36. For of him, and through him, and to him are all things; to whom be glory for ever, Amen. Isai. 63. 14. As a beast goes down into the valley, the Spirit of the Lord caused him to rest; so didst thou lead thy people, to make thy self a glorious name..

Q. What is Gods Providence towards the Angels?

A. God by his Providence permitted some of the Angels, wilfully and irrecoverably to fall into sin, and damnation Jude v. 6. And the Angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains, under darkness, unto the judgement of the great day. 2 Pet. 2. 4. For if God spared not the Angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness to be reserved unto judgement —Heb. 2. 16. For verily he took not on him the nature of Angels but he took on him the seed of Abraham. John 8. 44. Ye are of your father the Devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do; he was a murtherer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him; when he speaketh a lie he speaketh of his own, for he is a liar and the father of it., limiting and ordering that, and all their sins to his own glory Job. 1. 12. And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold all that he hath is in thy power, onely vpon himself put not forth thy hand; so Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord. Mat. 8. 31. And the Dev [...]ls be sought him, saying, If thou cast us out, suffer us to go away into the heard of swine., and establ [...]shed the rest in holinesse and happinesse [Page 160] 1 Tim. 5. 21. I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ & the elect Angels, that thou observe these things, without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. Mar. 8. 38. Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me, & of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed when he comes in the glory of his Father, with the holy Angels. H [...]b. 12. 22. But ye are come unto Mount Sion, and unto the City of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels., imploying them all Psal. 104. 4. Who mak [...]th his Angels Spirits, his Ministers a flaming fire., at his pleasure, in the administration of his power, mercy, and justice 2 King. 19. 35. And it came to pass that night that the Angel of the Lord went out and smote in the camp of the [...]ssyrians 185000. and when they arose early in the morning, behold they were all dead corpses. Heb. 1. 14. Are they not all ministring Spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?.

Q. What was the Providence of God toward man in the estate wherein he was created?

A. The Providence of God toward man in the estate wherein he was created, was, the placing him in Paradise, appointing him to dresse it, giving him liberty to eat of the fruit of the earth Gen. 2. 8.-15, 16. And the Lord planted a Garden Eastward in Eden, and there he put the man whom he had formed—V. 15.] And the Lord took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dresse it, and keep it. And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou maist freely eat., putting the creatures under his dominion Gen. 1. 28. And God blessed them and said unto them, Be fruitful and multiply and replenish the earth, and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth., and ordaining marriage for his help Gen. 2. 18. And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone: I will make him an help meet for him., affording him communion with himself Gen. 1. 26, 27, 28, 29. And God said, Let us make man in our own image, after our likenesse, and let him have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth; so God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him, male and female created he them. And God blessed them, and said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply and replenish the earth, &c—And God said, Behold I have given you every herb bearing seed, upon the face of the earth, and every tree in which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed, to you it shall be for meat. Gen. 3. 8. And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day; and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord, amongst the trees of the garden., instituting the Sabbath Gen. 2. 3. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it; because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made., entring into a covenant of life with him, upon condition of personal, perfect, and perpetual obedience Gal. 3. 12. And the Law is not of faith; but the man that doth them shall live in them. Rom 10. 5. For Moses describes the righteousness which is of the Law, that the man who doth those things shall live by them., of which the Tree of Life was a pledge Gen. 2. 9. And out of the ground made the Lord God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food: the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil., and forbidding to eat of the Tree of knowledge of [Page 161] good and evill, upon pain of death Gen. 2. 17. But of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day thou eatest thereof, thou shalt surely die,.

Q. Did man continue in that estate wherein God at first created him?

A. Our first Parents being left to the freedome of their own will, through the temptation of Satan, transgressed the Commandment of God, in eating the forbidden fruit, and thereby fell from the state of Innocency, wherein they were created Gen. 3, 6, 7, 8-13. And when the woman saw the tree was good for food, and pleasant to the sight, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her, and he did eat. And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew they were naked; and they sewed Fig-leaves together, and made themselves aprons. And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden, in the cool of the day; and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord amongst the trees of the garden—V. 13.] And the Lord God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? and the woman said, The Serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. Eccl. 7. 29. Loe this onely have I found, that God made man upright, but they have sought out many inventions. 2 Cor. 11. 3. But I fear lest by any means as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ..

Q. Did all mankind fall in that first Transgression?

A. The Covenant being made with Adam as a publick person, not for himself onely, but for his posterity, all mankind descending from him by ordinary generation Act. 17. 26. And hath made of one blood all Nations of men, for to dwell on the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation., sinned in him, and fell with him in that first transgression Gen. 2. 16, 17. And the Lord commanded the man saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayst freely eat, but of the tree of knowledge of good and evill, thou shalt not eat of it; for on the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. Compared with Rom. 5. from v. 12. to v. 20. 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—V. 18.] Therefore as by the offence of one, judgment came upon all to condemnation; even so—V. 19.] For as by one mans disobedience many were made sinners: so by the obedience, &c.—And with 1 Cor. 15. 21, 22. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shal all be made alive..

Q. Into what estate did the Fall bring mankind?

A The Fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery 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: Rom. 3. 23. For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God..

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Q. What is sin?

A. Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression of any Law of God, given as a Rule to the reasonable creature 1 Joh. 3. 4. Whosoever committeth sin, transgresseth also the Law; for sin is the transgression of the Law. Gal. 3. 10-12. For as many as are of the works of the Law, are under the curse; for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the Law to do them—And the Law is not of faith; but the man that doth them shall live in them..

Q. Wherein consisteth the sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell?

A. The sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell, consisteth in the guilt of Adams first sin Rom. 5. 12-19. 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—V. 19.] For as by one mans disobedience many were made sinners; so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous., the want of that righteousness wherein he was created, and the corruption of his nature, whereby he is utterly indisposed, disabled, and made opposite unto all that is spiritually good, and wholly inclined to all evill, and that continually Rom. 3. from v. 10. to v. 20. As it is written, There is none righteous, no not one. V. 11.] There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God. V. 12.] They are all gone out of the way, they are altogether become unprofitable, there is none that doth good, no not one. V. 13.] Their throat is an open sepulchre, with their tongues they have used deceit, the poison of Aspes is under their lips. V. 14.] Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness. V. 15.] Their feet are swift to shed blood. V. 16.] Destruction and misery are in their wayes. V. 17.] And the way of peace have they not known. V. 18.] There is no fear of God before their eyes. V. 19.] Now we know that what things soever the Law saith, it saith to them who are under the Law; that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Eph. 2. 1, 2, 3. And you hath he quickned, who were dead in trespasses and sins: wherein in time past ye walked, according to the course of this world, according to the Prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience; among whom also we all had our conversation in times past, in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind, and were by nature the children of wrath even as others. Rom. 5. 6. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. Rom. 8. 7, 8. Because the carnall mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be; so then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. Gen. 6. 5. And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually., which is commonly called Originall sin, and from which do proceed all actuall transgressions Jam. 1. 14, 15. But every man is tempted when he is drawn away by his own lust and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin, and sin when it is finished, bringeth forth death. Mat. 15. 19. For out of the heart proceed evill thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false-witness, blasphemies..

Q. How is Originall sin conveyed from our first Parents unto their posterity?

A. Original sin is conveyed from our first Parents [Page 163] unto their posterity by natural generation, so as all that proceed from them in that way, are conceived and born in sin Psa. 51. 5. Behold I was shapen in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me. Job 14. 4. Who can bring a clean thing out of an unclean? not one. Job 15. 14. What is man that he should be clean, and he that is born of a woman that he should be righteous? Job. 3. 6. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit..

Q. What misery did the Fall bring upon mankind?

A. The fall brought upon mankind the loss of communion with God Gen. 3. 8-10-24. And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day; and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord, amongst the trees of the garden—V. 10.] And he said I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid my self—V. 24.] So he drove out the man, and he placed at the East of the garden of Eden Cherubims and a flaming sword, which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life., his displeasure and curse, so as we are by nature children of wrath Eph. 2. 2, 3. Wherein in times past ye walked, according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience; amongst whom also we all had our conversation in times past, in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh, and of the mind, and were by nature the children of wrath even as others., bond-slaves to Sathan 2 Tim. 2. 26. And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the Devil, who are taken captive by him at his will., and justly liable to all punishments in this world, and that which is to come Gen. 2. 17. But of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it; for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. Lam. 3. 39. Wherefore doth a living man complain, a man for the punishment of his sins? Rom. 6. 23. The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Mat. 25. 41.-46. Then shall he say also to them on the left hand, depart from me ye cursed into everlasting fire, prepared for the Devil, and his Angels—V. 46. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment; but the righteous into life eternal. Jude v. 7. Even as Sodom and Gommortha, and the cities about them, in like manner giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternall fire..

Q What are the punishments of sin in this world?

A. The punishments of sin in this world, are either inward, as blindness of mind Ephes 4. 18. Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God, through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindnesse of their heart., a reprobate sense Rom. 1. 28. Even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, and to do those things which are not convenient., strong delusions 2 Thess. 2. 11. And for this cause God shall send them strong delusions, that they should believe a lie., hardness of heart 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 judgement of God., horrour of conscience Isai. 33. 14. The sinners in Zion are afraid; fearfulness hath surprized the hypocrites. Who among us shall dwell with devouring fire? who among us shall dwell with everlasting burnings? Gen. 4. 13. And Cain said unto the Lord, my punishment is greater then I can bear. Mat. 27. 4. —Saying, I have betrayed innocent blood; and they said, What is that to us? see thou to that., [Page 164] and vile affections Rom. 1. 26. For this cause God gave them up to vile affections: for even their women did change their naturall use into that which is against nature., or outward, as the curse of God upon the creatures for our sakes Gen. 3. 17. And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it; Cursed is the ground for thy sake, in forrow shalt thou eat of it all the dayes of thy life., and all other evils that befall us in our bodies, names, estates, relations, and imployments Deut. 28. 15. to the end. But it shall come to passe if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe to do all his Commandments and his Statutes which I have commanded thee this day, that all these curses shall come upon thee and overtake thee; Cursed shalt thou be in the City, and cursed shalt thou be in the Field: Cursed shall be thy basket and thy store. Cursed shall be the fruit of thy body, and of thy land, &c—, together with Death it self Rom. 6. 21-23. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death—V. 23. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternall life through Jesus Christ our Lord..

Q. What are the punishments of sin in the world to come?

A. The punishments of sin in the world to come, are everlasting separation from the comfortable presence of God, and most grievous torments in Soul and Body without intermission, in Hell-fire for ever 2 Thess. 1. 9. Who shal be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and the glory of his power. Mark 9. 44-46-48. to go into Hell, where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. Luke 16. 24. And he cryed and said, Father Abraham, have mercy upon me, and send Lazarus to dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame..

Q. Doth God leave all mankind to perish in the state of sin and misery?

A. God will not leave all men to perish in the estate of sin and misery 1 Thess. 5. 9. For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ., into which they fell by the breach of the first Covenant, commonly called the Covenant of works Gal. 3. 10, 12. For as many as are of the works of the law, are under the curse, for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the Book of the law to do them. V. 12.] And the law is not of faith, but the man that doth them shall live in them., but of his meer love and mercy, delivereth his elect out of it, and bringeth them into an estate of salvation by the second Covenant, commonly called the Covenant of Grace Tit. 3. 4, 5, 6, 7. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour, toward man appeared. V. 5. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us by the washing of regeneration, and the renewing of the holy Ghost. V. 6.] Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour. V. 7.] That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternall life. Gal. 3. 21. Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid; for if there had been a law given, which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. Rom. 3. 20, 21, 22. Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin. V. 21. But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the Law and by the Prophets. V. 22] Even the righteousness of God, which is by the faith of Jesus Christ, unto all, and upon all them hat believe, for there is no difference..

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Q. With whom was the Covenant of Grace made?

A. The Covenant of Grace was made with Christ, as the second Adam, and in him, with all the elect as his seed Gal. 3. 16. Now to Abrahaem and to his seed were the promises made, he saith not to seeds, as of many, but as of one, and to thy seed which is Christ, Rom. 5. 15, to the end. Of which before. Isa. 53. 10, 11. Yet it pleased our Lord to bruise him, he hath put him to grief, when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his dayes, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand. V. 11.] He shall see of the travel of his soul, and shall be satisfied; by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justifie many▪ for he shall bear their iniquities..

Q. How is the grace of God manifested in the second Covenant?

A. The grace of God is manifested in the second Covenant, in that he freely provideth, and offereth to sinners a Mediator Gen. 3. 15. And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed, it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel. Isa. 42. 6. I the Lord, have called thee in righteousness and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and will give thee for a Covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles. Joh. 6. 27. Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for the meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the son of man shall give unto you, for him hath God the father sealed., and life and salvation by him 1 John 5. 11, 12. And this is the record, that God hath given unto us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. V. 12.] He that hath the Son, hath life; and he that hath not the Son, hath not life:; and requiring faith as the condition to interest them in him, Joh. 3. 16. For God so loved the world that he gave his onely begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, should not perish but have everlasting life. John 1. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. promiseth and giveth his holy Spirit Prov. 1. 23. Behold I will pour out my Spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you., to all his elect to work in them that faith 2 Cor. 4. 13. We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken, we also believe, and therefore speak., with all other saving graces Gal. 5. 22, 23. But the fruit of the Spirit is, love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith. V. 22.] Meekness, temperance, against such there is no law., and to enable them unto all holy obedience Ezek. 36. 27. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgements and do them., as the evidence of the truth of their faith Jam. 2. 18, 22. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works, shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my fa [...]th by my works. V. 22.] Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect. and thankfulness to God 2 Cor. 5. 14, 15. For the love of Christ constraineth us because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead. V. 15:] And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again., and as the way which he hath appointed to salvation Eph. 2. 10. For we are his workmanship created in Christ Jesus, unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them..

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Q. Was the Covenant of Grace alwaies administred after one and the same manner?

A. The Covenant of Grace was not alwayes administred after the same manner, but the administrations of it under the Old Testament, were different from those under the New 2 Cor. 3. 6, 7, 8, 9. Who also hath made us able Ministers of the New Testament, not of the letter, but of the Spirit, for the letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life. V. 7.] But if the Ministration of death, written and ingraven in stones was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses, for the glory of his countenance, which glory was to be done away. V. 8.] How then shall not the ministration of the Spirit be rather glorious? V. 9.] For if the ministration of condemnation be glorious, how much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory?.

Q. How was the Covenant of Grace administred under the Old Testament.

A. The Covenant of Grace was administred under the Old Testament, by Promises Rom. 15. 8. Now I say that Jesus Christ was a Minister of the Circumcision for the truth of God to confirme the promises made unto the Fathers., Prophecies Act. 3. 20, 24. And he shall send Jesus Christ which was preached unto you, yea, and all the Prophets from Samuel, and those that follow after, as many as have spoken have likewise foretold of these dayes., Sacrifices Heb. 10. 1. For the law having a shadow of good things to come, not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offer year by year continually, make the comers thereunto perfect., Circumcision Rom. 4. 11. And he received the sign of Circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of faith which he had, being yet uncircumcised, that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised, that righteousness might be imputed unto them also., the Passeover 1 Cor. 5. 7. Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened: for even Christ our Passeover is sacrificed for us., and other Types and Ordinances, which did all fore-signifie Christ then to come, and were for that time sufficient to build up the Elect in faith in the promised Messiah Heb 8. 9. and 10. chapters. Heb. 11. 13. These all died in faith not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were perswaded of them and embraced them, and confessed, that they were strangers, and pilgrims, on the earth., by whom they then had full remission of sin, and eternal salvation Gal. 3. 7, 8, 9-14. Know ye therefore that they who are of faith are the children of Abraham. And the Scripture foreseeing that God would justifie the heathen through faith, preached before the Gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. So then they who be of faith, are blessed with faithful Abraham.—V. 14.] That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith..

Q. How is the Covenant of grace administred under the New Testament?

A. Under the New Testament, when Christ the substance was exhibited, the same Covenant of [Page 167] Grace was and still is to be administred in the preaching of the word Mark 16. 15. And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the Gospel to every creature., and the administration of the Sacraments of Baptisme Mat. 28. 19, 20. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo I am with you alwayes unto the end of the world., and the Lords Supper 1 Cor. 11. 23, 24, 25. For I have received of the Lord that which I also delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus, the same night wherein he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat, this is my body which was broken for you; this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup▪ when he had supped, saying, This cup is the New Testament in my blood: this do ye as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me., in which Grace and salvation is held forth in more fulness, evidence, and efficacy, to all Nations 2 Cor. 3. 6. to the end of the chapter. Who hath also made us able ministers of the New Testament not of the letter, but of the Spirit; for the letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life. But if the ministration of death written and engraven in stones was glorious, &c. —Heb. 8. 6.-10, 11. For finding fault with them, he saith, Behold the dayes come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new Covenant with the house of Israel, and Judah—V. 10.] For this is the Covenant that I will make with the house of Israel, after those dayes saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their minds, and write them in their hearts, and I will be to them a God, and they shall be to me a people. V. 11.] And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord; for all shall know me from the least to the greatest. Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the name of, &c.—.

Q. Who is the Mediator of the Covenant of Grace?

A. The onely Mediator of the Covenant of Grace is the Lord Jesus Christ 1 Tim. 2. 5. For there is one God, and one Mediator between God and Man, the Man Christ Jesus., who being the eternal Son of God, of one substance and equal with the Father Joh. 1. 1.-14. In the beginning was the word; and the word was with God, and the word was God—V. 14.] And the word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the onely begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. Joh. 10. 30. I and my father are one. Phil. 2. 6. Who being in the form of God, thought it no robbery to be equal with God., in the fulness of time became man Gal. 4. 4. But when the fulness of time was come, God sent forth his Son made of a woman, made under the Law., and so was and continues to be God and Man in two entire distinct natures, and one person for ever Luke 1. 35. And the Angel answered and said unto her. The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall over-shadow thee. Therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee, shall be called the Son of God. Rom. 9. 5. Whose are the Fathers, and of whom, as concerning the flesh, Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever, Amen. Col. 2. 9. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. Heb. 7. 24, 25. But this man because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable Priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost, that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them..

Q. How did Christ, being God, become Man?

A. Christ the Son of God became Man by taking [Page 166] [...] [Page 167] [...] [Page 168] to himself a true body, and a reasonable soul Joh. 1. 14. And the word was made flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the onely begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. Mat. 26. 38. Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me., being conceived by the power of the Holy Ghost, in the womb of the Virgin Mary, of her substance, and born of her Luke 1. 27-31-35-42. To a virgine spoused to a m [...]n whose name was Joseph, of the house of David, and the Virgins name was Mary—V. 31.] And behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a Son, and shalt call his name, Jesus—V. 35.] And the An [...]el answered and said unto her, the Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall over-shadow thee. Therefore also that holy thing wh [...]ch shall be born of thee, shall be called the Son of God—V. 42.] And [Elizabeth] spake out with a loud voice and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. Gal. 4. 4. But when the fulness of the time: was come, God sent forth his Son made of a woman, made under the law., yet without sin Heb. 4. 15. For we have not an High Priest which cannot be touched with a feeling of our infi [...]mities, but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Heb. 7. 26. For such an High-Priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher then the heavens..

Q. Why was it requisite that the Mediator should be God?

A. It was requisite that the Mediator should be God, that he might sustain and keep the humane nature from sinking under the infinite wrath of God, and the power of death Acts 2. 24, 25. Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death; because it was not possible he should be holden of it. For David speaks concerning him, I foresaw the Lord alwayes before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved. Rom. 1. 4. And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the Spirit of holiness by the resurrection from the dead. Compared with Rom. 4. 25. Who was delivered for our offences, and was ra [...]sed again for our justification. Heb. 9. 14. How much more shall the blood of Christ who through the eternal Spirit offered up himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works, to serve the living God?, give worth and efficacy to his sufferings, obedience, and intercession Act. 20. 28. Take heed therefore unto your selves, and to all the flock over which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the Church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. Heb. 9. 14. How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered up himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works, to serve the living God? Heb. 7. 25, 26, 27, 28. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. V. 26.] For such an High Priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher then the Heavens. V. 27.] Who needeth not daily, as those High Priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the peoples; for this he did once when he offered up himself. V. 28.] For the law maketh men High Priests which have infirmities, but the word of the oath which was since the law, maketh the Son who is consecrated for ever., and so satisfie Gods justice Rom. 3. 24, 25, 26. Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Jesus Christ. V. 25.] Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through saith in his blood to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past through the forbearance of God. V. 26.]. To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness; that he might be just, and the justifier of him that believeth in Jesus., [Page 169] procure his favour Eph. 1. 6. To the praise of the glory of his grace wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. Mat. 3. 17. And lo a voice from Heaven, saying▪ This is my beloved Son, in whom alone I am well pleased., purchase a peculiar people T [...]. 2. 13, 14. Looking for the blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Sa [...]ur Jesus Christ; who gave himself for us that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purifie unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works., give his Spirit to them Gal. 4. 6. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying Abba Father., conquer all their enemies Luke 1. 68, 69.-71.-74. Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, for he hath visited and redeemed his people, and hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David—V. 71.] That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us—V. 74.] That he would grant unto us that we being delivered out of the hands of our enemies, might serve him without fear., and bring them to everlasting salvation Heb. 5. 8, 9. Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered; and being made perfect he became the author of everlasting salvation unto all that obey him. Heb. 9▪ 11. to the 16. But Christ being come an High Priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect Tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building. V. 12.] Neither by the blood of Goats and Calves, but by his own blood, he entred in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. V. 13.] For if the blood of Bulls and of Goats, and the ashes of an Heifer, sprinkling the unclean, sanctifies to the purifying of the flesh; V. 14.] How much more shall the blood of Christ who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works, to serve the living God? V. 15.] And for this cause he is the Mediator of the New Testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first Testament, they which are called, might receive the promise of eternal inheritance..

Q. Why was it requisite that the Mediator should be Man?

A. It was requisite that the Mediator should be Man, that he might advance our nature Heb. 2. 16. For verily he took not on him the nature of Angels, but he took on him the seed of Abraham., perform obedience to the law Gal. 4. 4. But when the time was come, God sent forth his Son made of a woman, made under the law., suffer, and make intercession for us in our nature Heb. 2. 14. Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same, that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is the Devil. Heb. 7. 24, 25. But this man because he continueth for ever, hath an unchangeable Priesthood. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them., have a fellow-feeling of our infirmities Heb. 4. 15. For we have not an High Priest that cannot be touched with the seeling of ou [...] infirmit [...]es, but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin., that we might receive the adoption of sons Gal 4. 5. To rede [...]m [...]hem that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons., and have comfort, and access with boldness unto the throne of grace Heb. 4. 16. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need..

Q. Why was it requisite that the Mediator should be God and Man in one person?

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A. It was requisite that the Mediator, who was to reconcile God and Man, should himself be both God and Man, and this in one person, that the proper works of each nature might be accepted of God for us Matth. 1. 21. 23. And she shall bring forth a Son, and thou shalt call his Name Jesus: for he shall save his people from their sins. V. 23. Behold, a Virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a Son, and they shall call his Name Emmanuel, which being interpreted, is, God with us. Mat. 3. 17. And lo a voyce from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased, Heb. 9. 14. How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered up himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works, to serve the living God., and relied on by us, as the works of the whole person 1 Pet. 2. 6. Wherefore it is contained in the Scripture, Behold I lay in Sion a choice Corner-stone, elect and pretious, and he that beleeveth on him shall not be confounded..

Q. Why was our Mediator called Jesus?

A. Our Mediator was called Jesus, because he saveth his people from their sins Mat. 1. 21. And she shall bring forth a Son, and thou shalt call his name Jesus; for he shall save his people from their sins..

Q. Why was our Mediator called Christ?

A. Our Mediator was called Christ, because he was anointed with the Holy Ghost above measure Joh. 3. 34. For he whom God hath sent, speaketh the words of God; for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him. Psal. 45. 7. Thou lovest righteousness and hatest wickedness; therefore God, thy God, hath annointed thee with the oyl of gladness above thy fellowes., and so set apart, and fully furnished with all authority and ability John 6. 27. Labour not for the meat that perisheth, but for that meat which endureth to everlasting life, which the Son of Man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed. Mat. 28. 18, 19, 20. Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth; Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you alwayes even to the end of the world. Amen., to execute the Offices of Prophet Act. 3. 21, 22. whom the heavens must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken of by the mouth of all his holy Prophets since the world began. For Moses truly said unto the Fathers, A Prophet shal the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me, him shal ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. Luke 4. 18-21. The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the Gospel to the poor, he hath sent me to heal the broken in heart, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised—V. 21.] And he began to say unto them. This day is this Scripture fulfilled in your ears., Priest Heb. 5. 5, 6, 7. So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an High-Priest, but he that said unto him, Thou art my Son, to day have I begotten thee. As he saith also in another place, Thou art a Priest for ever after the order of Melchizedck; who in the dayes of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplications with strong cries and tears, unto him that was able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared. Heb. 4. 14, 15. Seeing then that we have a great High-Priest that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an High-Priest that cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin., [Page 171] and King of his Church Psal. 2. 6. Yet have I set my King upon my holy hill of Sion. Matth. 21. 5. Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass. Isai. 9. 6, 7. For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of peace. Of the encrease of his government and peace, there shall be no end, upon the throne of David and upon his Kingdom to order it, and to establish it with judgement and with justice, from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. Phil. 2. 8, 9, 10, 11. And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross; wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things on earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess, that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father., in the estate both of his Humiliation and Exaltation.

Q. How doth Christ execute the office of a Prophet?

A. Christ executeth the office of a Prophet, in his revealing to the Church Joh. 1. 18. No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him., in all ages, by his Spirit and word 1 Pet. 1. 10, 11, 12. Of which salvation the Prophets have enquired, and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you. V. 11.] Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ, which was in them did signifie, when it testified before-hand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory which should follow. V. 12.] Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things which are now reported unto you, by them that have preached the Gospel unto you, with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven, which things the Angels desire to look into., in diverse wayes of administration Heb. 1. 1, 2. God who at sundry times and in diverse manners spake in times past unto the Fathers by the Prophets, hath in these last dayes spoken unto us by his Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds., the whole will of God Joh. 15. 15. Henceforth I cal you not servants, for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doth, but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you., in all things concerning their edification, and salvation Act. 20. 32. And now, Brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. Eph. 4. 11, 12, 13. And he gave some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some Evangelists, and some Pastors, and Teachers. V. 12.] For the perfecting of the Saints, for the work of the Ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. V. 13.] Till we all come in the unity of the Faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ. Joh. 20. 31. But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the son of God, and that believing you might have life through his name..

Q. How doth Christ execute the office of a Priest?

A. Christ executeth the office of a Priest in his once offering himself a sacrifice without spot [Page 172] to God Heb. 9. 14, 28. How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works, to serve the living God—V. 28.] So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many, and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation., to be a reconciliation for the sins of his people Heb. 2. 17. Wherefore it behooved him in all things to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful High Priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people., and in making continual intercession for them Heb. 7. 25. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them..

Q. How doth Christ execute the office of a King?

A. Christ executeth the office of a King, in calling out of the world a people to himself Act. 15. 14, 15, 16. Simeon hath declared how God at the first did vis [...] the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name; and to this agree the words of the Prophets, as it is written, After this I will return, and build again the Tabernacle of David which is fallen down, and I will build again the ruines thereof, and I will set it up. Isai. 55. 4, 5. Behold I have given him for a witness to the people, a leader and commander to the people: Behold thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee, because of the Lord thy God, and for the holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee. Gen. [...]9. 10. The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor a law-giver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto him shall the gathering of the people be. Psal. 110. 3. Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power, in the beauties of holiness, from the womb of the morning; thou hast the dew of thy youth., and giving them officers Eph. 4. 11, 12. And he gave some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some Evangelists, and some Pastors and Teachers for the perfecting of the Saints, for the work of the Ministery, for the edifying of the body of Christ. 1 Cor. 12. 28. And God hath set some in the Church, first Apostles, secondarily Prophets, thirdly Teachers, after that Miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues., Laws Isai. 33. 22. For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our Law-giver, the Lord is our King; he will save us., and Censures, by which he visibly governs them Mat. 18. 17, 18. And if he shall n [...]glect to hear them, tell it to the Church; but if he neglect to hear the Church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man, and a Publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. 1 Cor. 5. 4, 5. In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered tog [...]ther, and my spirit with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, To deliver such a one unto Satan, for the destruction of the flesh that the Spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus., in bestowing saving grace upon his elect Act. 5. 31. Him hath God exalted with his right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repen [...]ance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins., rewarding their obedience Rev. 22. 12. And behold I come quickly, and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. Rev. 2. 10. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer; behold the Devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried, and ye shall have tribulation ten dayes be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life., and correcting them for their sins Rev. 3. 19. As many as I love I rebuke and chasten; be zealous therefore and repent., preserving and supporting them under [Page 173] all their temptations and sufferings Isai. 63. 9. In all their affliction he was afflicted, and the Angel of his presence saved them; in his love and in his pity he redeemed them, and he bare them and carried them all the dayes of old., restraining and overcoming all their enemies 1 Cor. 15. 25. For he must reign till he have put all his enemies under his feet, Psal. 110. throughout. The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, untill I have made thine enemies thy footstool, to the end.—, and powerfully ordering all things for his own glory Rom. 14. 10, 11. But why dost thou judge thy brother, or why dost thou set at naught thy brother? We shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written, As I live saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God., and their own good Rom. 8. 28. We know that all things work together for good to them who love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose., and also in taking vengeance on the rest who know not God, and obey not the Gospel 2 Thess. 1. 8, 9. In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power. Psal. 2. 8, 9. Ask of me and I shall give thee the Heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. Thou shalt break them with a rod of Iron, thou shalt dash them in pieces like a potters vessel..

Q. What was the state of Christs humiliation?

A. The estate of Christs humiliation was, that low condition, wherein he, for our sakes, emptying himself of his glory, took upon him the form of a servant in his Conception and Birth, Life, Death, and after his death untill his resurrection Phil. 2. 6, 7, 8. Who being in the form of God, thought it no robbery to be equal with God, but made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men, and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even the death of the Cross. Luke 1. 31. And behold thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. 2 Cor. 8. 9. For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. Acts 2. 24. Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that he should be holden of it..

Q. How did Christ humble himself in his Conception and Birth?

A. Christ humbled himself in his Conception, in that being from all eternity the Son of God, in the Bosom of the Father, he was pleased in the fulness of time to become the Son of Man, made of a Woman of low estate, and to be born of her, with divers Circumstances of more then ordinary [Page 174] abasement Joh. 1. 14-18. And the Word was made Flesh, and dwelt among us (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the onely begotten of the Father) full of grace and truth—V. 18.] No man hath seen God at any time, the onely begotten Son which is in the bosome of the Father, he hath declared him. Gal. 4. 4. But when the fulness of time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the Law. Luke 2. 7. And she brought forth her first born Son and wrapped him in swadling-clothes, and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the Inne..

Q. How did Christ humble himself in his life?

A. Christ humbled himself in his life by subjecting himself to the Law Gal. 4. 4. But when the fulnesse of time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the Law., which he perfectly fulfilled Mat. 5. 17. Think not that I am come to destroy the Law or the Prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill. Rom. 5. 19. For as by one mans disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous., and by conflicting with the indignities of the world Psal. 22. 6. But I am a worm and no man, a reproach of men, and despised of the people. Heb. 12. 2, 3. Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him, endured the Cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds., temptations of Satan Mat. 4. from v. 1. to v. 12. Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness, to he tempted of the Divel, &c. —Luke 4. 13. And when the Divel had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season., and infirmities in his flesh, whether common to the nature of man, or particularly accompanying that his low condition Heb. 2. 17, 18. Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a mercifull and faithful High-Priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted. Heb. 4. 15. For we have not an High-Priest who cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Isa: 52. 13, 14. Behold my servant shall deal prudently, he shall be exalted and extolled, and be very high. As many were astonished at thee, (his visage was so marred more then any man, and his form more then the sons of men.).

Q. How did Christ humble himself in his death?

A. Christ humbled himself in his death, in that having been be rayed by Judas Mat. 27. 4. Saying▪ I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood; and they said, What is that to us? see thou to that., forsaken by his Disciples Mat. 26. 56. But all this was done that the Scriptures of the Prophets might be fulfilled; then all the Disciples forsook him and fled., scorned and rejected by the World Isai. 53. 2, 3. For he shal grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground; he hath no form nor comeliness, and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. He is despised and rejected of men, a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief, and we hid as it were, our faces from him, he was despised, and we esteemed him not., condemned [Page 175] by Pilate, and tormented by his Persecutors Mat. 27. from ver. 26. 10 v. 50. Then released he Barrabbas unto them, and when he had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified, &c. —John 19. 34. But one of the souldiers with a spear pierced his side, and forthwith came thereout blood and water., having also conflicted with the terrors of death, and the powers of darkness, felt and born the weight of Gods wrath Luke 22. 44. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood, falling down to the ground. Mat. 27. 46. And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voyce, saying, ELI ELI LAMA SABACTHANI. that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?, he laid down his life an offering for sin Isa. 53. 10. Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him; he hath put him to grief. When thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his dayes, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand., enduring the painful, shameful, and cursed death of the cross Phil. 2. 8. And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Heb. 12. 2. Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Gal. 3. 13. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the Law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on the tree..

Q. Wherein consisted Christs humiliation after his death?

A. Christs humiliation after his death, consisted in his being buried 1 Cor. 15. 3, 4. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the Scriptures., and continuing in the state of the dead, and under the power of death till the thirdday Psal. 16. 10. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Compared with Acts 2. 24, 25, 26, 27.-31. Whom God hath raised up having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible that he should be holden of it. V. 25.] For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord alwayes before my face, for he is on my right hand that I should not be moved—V. 36.] Therefore did my heart rejoyce, and my tongue was glad, my flesh also shall rest in hope. V. 27.] Because thou wilt not leave my soul in the grave, nor wile thou suffer thine holy One to see corruption—V. 31.] He seeing this before, spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither did his flesh see corruption, Rom. 6. 9. Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more, death hath no more dominion over him. Matth. 12. [...]0. For as Jonas was three dayes and three nights in the whales belly so shall the Son of man be three dayes and three nights in the heart of the earth., which hath been otherwise expressed in these words, He descended into Hell.

Q. What was the estate of Christs exaltation?

A. The estate of Christs exaltation comprehendeth his resurrection 1 Cor. 15. 4. And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the Scripture., Ascention Mark 16. 19. So then, after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heav [...]n, and sate on the right hand of God., sitting at the right [Page 176] hand of the Father Eph. 1. 20.—Which he wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead, and set h [...]m at his own right hand in the heavealy places., and his coming again to judge the world Act. 1. 11.—Who also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus who is taken from you up into heaven, shall so come, in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. Act. 17. 31. Because he hath appointed a day, in which he will judge the world in righteousness, by that man whom he hath ordained, whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead..

Q. How was Christ exalted in his resurrection?

A. Christ was exalted in his resurrection, in that, not having seen corruption in death, of which it was not possible for him to be held Act. 2. 24.-27. Whom God hath raised up, having loosed the pains of death, because it was not possible he should be holden of it—V. 27.] Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption,, and having the very same body in which he suffered, with the essential properties thereof Luk. 24. 39. Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I my self: handle me and see me, for a spirit hath not flesh and bones as ye see me have., but without mortality and other common infirmities belonging to this life, really united to his soul Rom. 6. 9. Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more, death hath no more dominion over him. Rev. 1. 18. I am he that liveth and was dead; and behold I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and death., he rose again from the dead the third day, by his own power Joh. 10. 18. No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of my self. I have power to lay it down, and I have power to take it again; this commandment have I received of my Father.; whereby he declared himself to be the Son of God Rom. 1. 4. And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the Spirit of holiness by the resurrection from the dead., to have satisfied divine justice Rom. 8. 34. Who is he that condemneth? it is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us., to have vanquished death and him that had the power of it Heb. 2 14. For as much then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same, that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is the Divel., and to be Lord of quick and dead Rom. 14. 9. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that he might be Lord both of the dead, and living., all which he did as a publick person 1 Cor. 15. 21, 22. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead, for as in Adam all die, so in Christ shall all be made alive., the head of his Church Eph. 1. 20, 22, 23. Which he wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places. V. 22.] And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the Church; which is his body, the fulnesse of him that filleth all in all. Col. 1. 18. And he is the head of the body the Church, who is the beginning, the fi [...]st born from the dead, that in all things he might have the preheminence., for their justification Rom. 4. 25. Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification., [Page 177] quickning in grace Eph. 2. 1-5, 6. And you hath he quickned, who were dead in trespasses and sins—V. 5.] Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ (by grace ye are saved) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. Col. 2. 12. Buried with him in Baptisme, wherein also ye are risen with him, through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead., support against enemies 1 Cor. 15. 25, 26, 27. For he must reign till he hath put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death. For he hath put all things under his feet; but when he saith, all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted who did put all things under him., and to assure them of their resurrection from the dead at the last day 1 Cor. 15. 20. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the first fruits of them that slept..

Q. How was Christ exalted in his Ascension?

A. Christ was exalted in his Ascension, in that having after his resurrection often appeared unto, and conversed with his Apostles, speaking to them of the things pertaining to the Kingdom of God Act. 1. 2, 3. Until the day in which he was taken up, after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the Apostles, whom he had chosen; To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion, by many infallible proofs being seen of them forty dayes and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God., and giving them commission to Preach the Gospel to all nations Mat. 28. 19, 20. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you alway unto the end of the world., fourty dayes after his resurrection, he, in our nature, and as our head Heb. 6. 20. Whither the fore-runner is for us entred, even Jesus made an High-Priest for ever after the order of Melchizedck., triumphing over enemies Eph. 4. 8. Wherefore he saith when he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men., visibly went up into the highest heavens, there to receive gifts for men Act. 1. 9, 10, 11. And when he bad spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked stedfastly towards heaven, as he went up, behold two men stood by them in white apparel; who also said, Ye men of Galilee why stand ye gazing up into heaven? the same Jesus which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. Eph. 4. 10. He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things. Psal. 68. 18. Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive, thou hast received gifts for men; yea for the rebellious also, that the Lord God might dwell among them., to raise up our affections thither Col. 3. 1, 2. If ye then be risen with Christ, s [...]ck those things which are above, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God; set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth., and to prepare a place for us Joh. 14. 3. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto my self, that where I am there ye may be also., where himself is, and shall continue, till his second coming at the end of the world Act. 3. 21. Whom the heavens must receive, till the [...]imes of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy Prophets since the world began..

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Q. How is Christ exalted in his sitting at the right hand of God?

A. Christ is exalted in his sitting at the right hand of God, in that as God-man he is advanced to the highest favour with God the Father Phil. 2. 9. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name., with all fulness of joy Act. 2. 28. Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; Thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance. Compared with Psal. 16. 11. Thou wilt shew me the path of life; in thy presence is fulness of joy, and at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore., glory Joh. 17 5. And now O Father, glorifie thou me, with thine own self, with the glory which I had with thee before the world was., and power over all things in heaven and earth Eph. 1. 22. And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the Church. 1 Pet. 3. 22. Who is gone into heaven and is on the right hand of God, Angels, and Authorities, and Powers being made subject unto him., and doth gather and defend his Church, and subdue their enemies, furnisheth his Ministers and people with gifts and graces Eph. 4. 10, 11, 12. He that descended, is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things. And he gave some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some Evangelists, and some Pastors and Teachers; For the perfecting of the Saints, for the work of the Ministery, for the edifying of the body of Christ. Psal. 110. throughout. The Lord said unto my Lord, sit thou at my right hand, till, &c.—to the end., and maketh intercession for them Rom. 8. 34. Who is he that condemneth? it is Christ that died; ye rather that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us..

Q. How doth Christ make intercession?

A. Christ maketh intercession, by his appearing in our nature continually before the Father in heaven Heb. 9. 12-24. Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entred in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us.—V. 24.] For Christ is not entred in the holy places made with hands, which are the figures of the true, but into heaven it self, now to appear in the presence of God for us., in the merit of his obedience and sacrifice on earth Heb. 1. 3. Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sate down on the right hand of the Majesty on high., declaring his will to have it applied to all believers Joh. 3. 16. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him, might not perish but have everlasting life. Joh. 17. 9.-20-24. I pray for them, I pray not for the world; but for them which thou hast given me, for they are mine—V. 20.] Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also that shall believe on me through their word—V. 24.] Father I will that they also whom thou hast given me, may be with me where I am, that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me; for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world., answering all accusations against them Rom 8. 33, 34. Who shall lay any thing to the charge of Gods elect? it is God that justifies, Who is he that condemneth? it is Christ that died; yea rather that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us., procuring for them quiet of conscience notwithstanding daily failings [Page 179] Rom. 5. 1, 2. Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoyce in hope of the glory of God. 1 Joh. 2. 1, 2. My little children these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; And he is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole word. (Heb. 4. 16. Let us there come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and finde grace to help in time of need., access with boldness to the throne of grace ^y, and acceptance of their persons Eph. 1. 6. To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. and services 1 Pet. 2. 5. Ye also as lively stones are built up a Spiritual house, an holy Priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God by Jesus Christ..

Q. How is Christ to be exalted in his coming again to judge the world?

A. Christ is to be exalted in his coming again to judge the world, in that he who was unjustly judged and condemned by wicked men Act. 3. 14, 15. But ye denied the Holy One, and the just, and desired a murtherer to be granted unto you, and killed the Prince of life, whom God hath raised from the dead; whereof we are witnesses., shall come again at the last day in great power Matt. 24. 30. And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven; and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory., and in the full manifestation of his own glory, and of his Fathers, with all his holy Angels Luk. 9. 26. For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Fathers, and of the holy Angels. Mat. 25. 31. When the Son of man shall come in his glory and all his holy Angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory., with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trumpet of God 1 Thes. 4. 16. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Arch-Angel, and with the trump of God, and the dead in Christ shall rise first., to judge the world in righteousness Act. 17. 31. Because he hath appointed a day wherein he will judge the world in righteousness, by that man whom he hath ordained, whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead..

Q. What benefits hath Christ procured by his Mediation?

A. Christ by his Mediation hath procured Redemption Heb. 9. 12. Neither by the blood of go [...]ts and calves, but by his own blood he en [...]red in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us., with all other benefits of the Covenant of Grace 2 Cor. 1. 20. For all the promises of God in him are, yea, and in him, Amen, unto the glory of God by us..

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Q. How do we come to be made partakers of the benefits which Christ hath procured?

A. We are made partakers of the benefits which Christ hath procured, by the application of them unto us John 1. 11, 13. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave be power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe in his name., which is the work especially of God the Holy Ghost Tit. 3. 5, 6. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour..

Q. Who are made partakers of Redemption through Christ?

A. Redemption is certainly applied and effectually communicated to all those for whom Christ hath purchased it Eph. 1. 13, 14. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of Truth, the Gospel of your salvation; in whom also after ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, which is the earnest of our inheritance, until the redemption of the purchased possession unto the praise of his glory. Joh. 6. 37-39. All that the Father giveth me shall come unto me, and him that cometh unto me I will in no wise cast out.—V. 39.] And this is the Fathers will who hath sent me, that of all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. Joh. 10. 15, 16. As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father, and I lay down my life for the sheep. And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold; them also I must bring. and they shall hear my voice, and there shall be one fold, and one shepheard., who are in time by the Holy Ghost inabled to believe in Christ according to the Gospel Eph. 2. 8. For by grace ye are saved through faith, and that not of your selves, it is the gift of God. 2 Cor. 4. 13. We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak..

Q. Can they who have never heard the Gospel, and so know not Jesus Christ, nor believe in him, be saved by their living according to the light of nature?

A. They who having never heard the Gospel Rom. 10. 14. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? [...]d how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?, know not Jesus Christ 2 Thess. 1. 8, 9. In flaming fire, taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ; who shall be punished with everlasting destruction, from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power. Eph. 2. 12. That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the Common-wealth of Israel, and strangers from the Covenant of Promise, having no hope, and without God in the world. John 1. 10 11, 12. He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own and his own received him not. 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., and believe not in him, cannot be [Page 181] saved Joh. 8. 24. I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins; For if ye believe not that I am He, ye shall die in your sins. Mark 16. 16. He that believeth and is baptized, shall be saved; but he that believeth not, shall be damned,, be they never so diligent to frame their lives according to the light of nature 1 Cor. 1. 20, 21, 22, 23, 24. Where is the wise? where is the Scribe? where is the Disputer of this world? Hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? V. 21.] For after that in the wisdom of God the world through wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe. V. 22.] For the Jewes require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom. V. 23.] But we preach Christ crucified, to the Jewes a stumbling block, and unto the Greeks foolishness. V. 24.] But unto them who are called, both Jewes, and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God., or the Law of that Religion which they professe John 4. 22. Ye worship ye know not what; we know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jewes. Rom. 9 31, 32. But Israel which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness. Wherefore? Because they sought it not by faith, but as it were by the works of the Law, for they stumbled at that stumbling stone. Phil. 3. 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. Though I might also have confidence in the flesh; if any other man thinketh that he hath whereof he might trust in the flesh, I more. V. 5.] Circumcised the eighth day, of the stock of Israel of the tribe of Benjamin, an Hebrew of the Hebrews, as touching the law, a Pharisee. V. 6.] Concerning zeal, persecuting the Church, touching the righteousnesse which is in the law, blamelesse, V. 7. But what things were a gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. V. 8.] Yea doubtless, and I account all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do account them but dung, that I may win Christ. V. 9.] And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousnesse which is of God by faith., neither is there salvation in any other, but in Christ alone Acts 4. 12. Neither is there salvation in any other; for there is no other name under heaven given amongst men, whereby we must be saved., who is the Saviour onely of his body the Church Eph. 5. 23. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the Church, and he is the Saviour of the body..

Q. Are all they saved who hear the Gospel and live in the Church?

A. All that hear the Gospel, and live in the visible Church, are not saved, but they onely who are true members of the Church invisible Joh. 12. 38, 39▪ 40. That the saying of Esaias the Prophet might be fulfilled which he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed? Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again, He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart, that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them. Rom. 9. 6. Not as though the word of God hath taken none effect; for they are not all Israel who are of Israel. Mat. 22. 14. For many are called, but few chosen. Mat. 7. 21. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he that doth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Rom. 11. 7. What then? Israel hath not obtained that which he seeketh for; but the election hath obteined it, and the rest were blinded..

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Q. What is the visible Church?

A. The visible Church is a society made up of all such as in all ages and places of the World do profess the true Religion 1 Cor. 1. 2. Unto the Church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be Saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours. 1 Cor. 12. 13. For by one spirit are we all baptized into one body whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free, and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. Rom. 15. 9, 10, 11, 12. And that the Gentiles might glorifie God for his mercy, as it is written, For this cause I will confess to thee among the Gent [...]les, and sing unto thy name. V. 10.] And again he saith; Rejoyce ye Gentiles with his people. V. 11.] And again, Praise the Lord, all ye Gentiles, and laud him all ye people. V. 12.] And again Esaias saith, There shall be a root of Jesse, and he that shall rise to reign over the Gentiles, in him shall the Gentiles trust. Rev. 7. 9. After this I beheld, and lo a great multitude Which no man could number, of all nations, and kinreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne and before the lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands. Psal. 2. 8. Ask of me, and I shall give thee, the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. Ps. 22. 27, 28, 29, 30, 31 All the ends of the world shall remember, and turn unto the Lord, and all the kindreds of the earth shall worship before thee. V. 28.] For the Kingdom is the Lords, and he is the Governour among the nations V. 29.] All they that be fat upon the earth shall eat and worship; all that go down to the dust shall bow before him, and none can keep alive his own soul. V. 30.] A seed shall serve him, it shall be accounted to the Lord for a generation. V. 31.] They shall come and shall declare his righteousness. Psal. 45. 17. I will make thy name to be remembred in all generations; therefore shall the people praise thee for ever and ever. Mat. 28. 19▪ 20. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo I am with you alwayes unto the end of the world. Amen. Esai. 59. 21. As for me, this is my Covenant with them, saith the Lord, My spirit which is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out of the mouth of thy seeds seed, saith the Lord, from henceforth and for ever., and of their children 1 Cor. 7. 14. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband; else were your children unclean, but now they are holy. Act. 2. 39. For the Promise is unto you and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. Rom. 11. 16. For if the first-fruits be holy, the lump is also holy, and if the root be holy, so are the branches. Gen. 17. 7. And I will establish my Covenant between me and thee, and thy seed after thee, in their generations for an everlasting Covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee..

Q. What are the special priviledges of the visible Church?

A. The visible Church hath the priviledge of being under Gods special care and government Isa. 4. 5, 6. And the Lord will create upon every dwelling place of Mount Sion, and upon her assemblies a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night, for upon all the glory shall be a defence. V. 6.] And there shall be a Tabernacle for a shadow in the day-time from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm, and from rain. 1 Tim. 4. 10. For therefore we both labour, and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, who is the Saviour of all men, especially of those that believe., of being protected and preserved in all ages, notwithstanding the [Page 183] opposition of all enemies Ps. 115. throughout. Not unto us O Lord; not unto us, but—to the end. Isai. 31. 4, 5. For thus hath the Lord spoken unto me; like as the lion and the yonglion roaring on his prey, when a multitude of Shepherds are called forth against him, he will not be afraid of their voice, nor abase himself for the noise of them; so shall the Lord of hosts come down to fight for mount Sion and for the hill thereof. V. 5.] As birds flying, so will the Lord of hosts defend Jerusalem, defending also he will deliver it, and passing over he will preserve it. Zech. 12. 2, 3, 4-8. 9. Behold, I will make Jerusalem a cup of trembling unto all the people round about, when they shall be in the siege both against Judah and Jerusalem. V. 3.] And in that day will I make Jerusalem a burthensom stone for all people; all that burthen themselves with it, shall be cut in pieces, though all the people of the earth be gathered together against it. V. 4.] In that day, saith the Lord, I will smite every horse with astonishment, and his rider with madness; and I will open mine eyes upon the house of Judah, and will smite every horse of the people with blindness—V. 8.] In that day shall the Lord defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and he that is feeble among them, at that day shall be as David, and the house of David shall be as God, as the Angel of the Lord before them. V. 9.] and it shall come to pass in that day, that I will seek to destroy all the nations that come against Jerusalem., and of enjoying the communion of Saints, the ordinary means of salvation Act. 2. 39-42. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call—V. 42] And they continued stedfastly in the Apostles Doctrine, and in fellow-ship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers., offers of grace by Christ to all the members of it in the ministery of the Gospel, testifying, that whosoever believes in him shall be saved Psal. 147. 19, 20. He sheweth his words unto Jacob, his statutes and his judgements unto Israel. He hath not dealt so with any nation, and as for his judgements, they have not known them; praise ye the Lord. Rom. 9. 4. Who are Israelites, to whom pertaineth the adoption, and the glory, and the Covenants, and the giving of the Law, and the service of God, and the promises. Eph. 4. 11, 12. And he gave some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some Evangelists, and some Pastors and Teachers, for the perfecting of the Saints, for the work of the ministery, for the edifying of the body of Christ. Mark 16. 15, 16. And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the Gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved, but he that believeth not shall be damned., and excluding none that will come unto him Joh. 6. 37. All that the father giveth me shall come unto me, and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out..

Q. What is the invisible Church?

A. The invisible Church is the whole number of the elect, that have been, are, or shall be gathered into one, under Christ the Head Eph. 1. 10-22, 23. That in the dispensation of the fulness of times, he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth, even in him—V. 22.] And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be head over all things to the Church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all. Joh. 10. 16. And other sheep I have which are not of this fold; them also I must bring and they shall hear my voice, and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd. John 11. 52. And not for that nation onely, but that also he should gather together in one, the children of God that were scattered abroad..

Q. What speciall benefits do the Members of [Page 184] the invisible Church enjoy by Christ?

A. The Members of the Invisible Church by Christ enjoy Union and Communion with him in grace and glory Joh. 17. 21. That they all may be one, as thou Father art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us, that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. Eph. 2. 5, 6. Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickned us together with Christ (by grace ye are saved) And hath raised us up together, and hath made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. John 17. 24. Father I will that they also whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am, that they may behold my glory which thou hast given me; for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world..

Q. What is that Union which the Elect have with Christ?

A. The Union which the Elect have with Christ, is the work of Gods grace Eph. 1. 22. And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be head over all things to the Church. Eph. 2. 6, 7, 8. And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. V. 7.] That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness towards us in Christ Jesus. V. 8.] For by grace are ye saved, through faith, and that not of your selves, it is the gift of God,, whereby they are Spiritually and mystically, yet really and inseparably joyned to Christ, as their head and husband 1 Cor. 6. 17. But he that is joyned to the Lord is one Spirit. John 10. 28. And I give unto them eternal life, and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. Eph. 5. 23-30. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the Church; and he is the Saviour of the body—V. 30. For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones., which is done in their effectual Calling 1 Pet. 5. 10. But the God of all grace who hath called us into his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. 1 Cor. 1. 9. God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord..

Q. What is effectual calling?

A. Effectual Calling is the work of Gods almighty power and grace Joh. 5. 25. Verily, verily I say unto you, the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God, and they that hear shall live. Eph. 1. 18, 19. 20. The eyes of your understanding being enlightned, that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the Saints. V. 19.] 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 at his own right hand, in the heavenly places. 2 Tim. 1. 8, 9. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the Gospel, according to the power of God. V. 9.] Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose, and grace which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began., whereby, out of his free and especial love to his Elect, and from nothing in them moving [Page 185] him thereunto Tit. 3. 4, 5. But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour towards man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. Eph. 2. 4, 5-7, 8, 9. But God who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us. V. 5.] Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickned us together with Christ (by grace ye are saved)—V. 7.] That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace, in his kindness towards us through Christ Jesus. V. 8.] For by grace ye are saved, through faith, and that not of your selves; it is the gift of God. V. 9.] Not of works, lest any man should boast. Rom. 9. 11. For the children being not yet born, neither having done any good or evil, that the purpose of God according to election might stand, not of works but of him that calleth.—, he doth in his accepted time invite and draw them to Jesus Christ by his Word and Spirit 2 Cor. 5. 20. Now then we are Ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us, we pray you in Christs stead, be ye reconciled to God. Compared with 2 Cor. 6. 1, 2. We then as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain; for he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee; Behold now is the accepted time, behold, now is the day of salvation. Joh. 6. 44. No man can come to me except the Father who hath sent me draw him; and I will raise him up at the last day. 2 Thess. 2. 13, 14. But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth. Whereunto he hath called you by our Gospel to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ., savingly inlightning their mindes Acts 26. 18. To open their eyes and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God; that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and an inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith which is in me. 1 Cor. 2. 10.-12. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea even the deep things of God—V. 12.] Now we have not received the Spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God, that ye might know the things freely given us of God., renewing and powerfully determining their wills Ezek. 11. 19. I will give them one heart, and I will put a new Spirit within you, and I will take the stony heart out of their flesh, and will give them an heart of flesh. Ezek. 36. 26, 29. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you, and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. V. 29.] I will also save you from all your uncleannesses, and I will call for the corn and increase it, and lay no famine upon you. Joh. 6. 45. It is written in the Prophets, And they shall be all taught of God: every man therefore that hath heard and learned of the Father cometh unto me., so as they, although in themselves dead in sin, are hereby made willing and able freely to answer his call, and to accept and imbrace the grace offered and conveyed therein Eph. 2. 5. Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickned us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved.) Phil. 2. 13. For it is God that worketh in you to will and to do of his good pleasure. Deut. 30. 6. And the Lord thy God will circumcise thy heart, and the heart of thy seed to love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, that thou maist live..

Q. Are the Elect effectually called?

A. All the Elect, and they onely, are effectually called Act. 13. 48. And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life, believed., although others may be, and often are, outwardly called by the ministery of the Word Mat. 22. 14. For many are called, but few are chosen., and have some [Page 186] common operations of the Spirit Mat. 7. 22. Many will say unto me in that day, Lord, Lord, Have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name cast out Divels? and in thy name done many wonderful works? Mat. 13. 20, 21. But he that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy received it: yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while; for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by and by he is offended. Heb. 6. 4, 5. For it is impossible for those who were once enlightned, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the holy Ghost, and have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come; If they, &c.—, who, for their wilful neglect and contempt of the grace offered to them, being justly left in their unbelief, do never truly come to Jesus Christ Joh. 12. 38, 39, 40. That the saying of Esaias the Prophet might be fulfilled which he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed? V. 39] Therefore they could not believe; because that Esaias said again. V. 40.] He hath blinded their eyes, and hardned their heart, that they should not see with their eyes, and understand with their heart, and be converted; and I should heal them. Act. 28. 25, 26, 27. And when they agreed not among themselves, they departed after that Paul had spoken one word, Well spake the Holy Ghost by the Prophet Esaias unto our Fathers, saying, V. 26.] Go unto this people, and say; Hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and seeing ye shall see, and not perceive. V. 27.] For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed, least they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, & understand with their heart, and be converted and I should heal them. Joh. 6. 64, 65. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. V. 65.] And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me except it were given him of the Father. Psal. 81. 11, 12. But my people would not hearken to my voice, and Israel would have none of me; so I gave them up to their own hearts lusts, and they walked in their own counsels..

Q. What is the Communion in Grace which the Members of the Invisible Church have with Christ?

A. The Communion in Grace, which the Members of the Invisible Church have with Christ, is, their partaking of the virtue of his Mediation, in their Justification Rom. 8. 30. Moreover whom he did predestinate them he also called, and whom he called them he also justified, and whom he justified them he also glorified., Adoption Eph. 1. 5. Having predestinated us to the adoption of Children by Jesus Christ, to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will., Sanctification, and whatever else in this life manifests their Union with him 1 Cor. 1. 30. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption..

Q. What is Justification?

A. Justification is an act of Gods free grace unto sinners Rom. 3. 22.-24, 25. Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all, and upon all that believe; for there is no difference—V. 24.] Being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in J [...]sus Christ. V. 25.] Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God. Rom. 4. 5. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his saith is accounted for righteousness., in which he pardoneth all their sins, accepteth [Page 187] and accounteth their persons righteous in his sight 2 Cor. 5. 19-21. To wit, that God was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation—V. 21.] For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in him. Rom. 3. 22-24, 25-27, 28. Even the righteousness of God which is by the faith of Jesus Christ unto all, and upon all that believe; for there is no difference—V. 24.] Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Jesus Christ. V. 25.] Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God—V. 27.] Where is boasting then? it is excluded. By what law? Of works? Nay, but by the law of faith. V. 28.] Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith, without the deeds of the law., not for any thing wrought in them, or done by them Tit. 3. 5. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. Eph. 1. 7. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins according to the riches of his grace., but onely for the perfect obedience and full satisfaction of Christ, by God imputed to them Rom. 5. 17, 18, 19. Therefore if any man be in Christ he is a new creature, old things are past away, behold, all things are become new. V. 18.] And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministery of reconciliation. V. 19.] To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them, and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Rom. 4. 6, 7, 8. Even as David also describes the blessedness of the man unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works. V. 7.] Saying, Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. V. 8.] Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin:, and received by Faith alone Act. 10. 43. To him give all the Prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins. Gal. 2. 16. Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus 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. Phil. 3. 9—And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith..

Q. How is Justification an Act of Gods free Grace?

A. Although Christ by his Obedience and Death, did make a proper, reall, and full satisfaction to Gods Justice, in the behalf of them that are justified Rom. 5. 8, 9, 10-19 But God commendeth his love towards us in that while we were yet sinners Christ died for us. V. 9.] Much more then being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. V. 10.] For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more being reconciled shall we be saved by his life—V. 19.] For as by one mans disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous., yet, in as much as God accepteth the satisfaction from a Surety, which he might have demanded of them, did [Page 188] provide this Surety, his own onely Son 1 Tim. 2. 5, 6. For there is one God, and one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. Who gave himself a ransom: for all to be testified in due time. Heb. 10. 10. By the which will we are sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all. Mat. 20. 28. Even as the Son of man came not to be ministred unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransome for many. Dan. 9. 24-26. Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people, and upon thy holy City, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophesie, and to anoint the most Holy—V. 26.] And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself, and the people of the Prince that shall come, shall destroy the City and the Sanctuary, and the end thereof shall be with a flood, &c. Esa. 53. 4, 5, 6-10, 11, 12. Surely he hath born our griefs, and carried our sorrows; yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. V. 5.] But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him, and with his stripes we are healed. V. 6.] All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way, and the Lord hath laid on him the iniquity of us all—Ver. 10.] Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise him, he hath put him to grief; when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see his seed, he shall prolong his dayes, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hands. V. 11.] He shall see of the travel of his soul, and be satisfied: by his knowledge shall my righteous servant justifie many; for he shall bear their iniquities. V. 12.] Therefore will I divide him a portion with the great, and he shall divide the spoil with the strong; because he hath poured out his soul unto death: and he was numbred with the transgressors, and he bare the sin of many, and made intercession for the transgressors. Heb. 7. 22. By so much was Jesus made a Surety of a better Testament. Rom. 8. 32. He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things. 1 Pet. 1. 18, 19. For as much as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation, received by tradition from your fathers. V. 19.] But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish, and without spot., imputing his righteousness to them 2 Cor. 5. 21. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in him., and requiring nothing of them for their Justification, but Faith Rom. 3. 24, 25. Being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Jesus Christ. V. 25.] Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God., which also is his gift Eph. 2. 8. For by grace are ye saved through faith, and that not of your selves; it is the gift of God., their Justification is, to them, of free grace Eph. 1. 7. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace..

Q. What is justifying Faith?

A. Justifying Faith is a saving Grace Heb. 10. 39. But we are not of them who draw back to perdition, but of them who believe to the saving of the soul., wrought in the heart of a Sinner by the Spirit 2 Cor. 4. 13. We having the same Spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken, we also believe and therefore speak. Eph. 1. 17, 18, 19. That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ the Father of glory may give unto you the Spirit of wisdom, and revelation in the knowledge of him. V. 18.] The eyes of your understanding being enlightned, that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the Saints, V. 19.] And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward, who believe according to the working of his mighty power. and word of [Page 189] God Rom. 10. 14. How then shall they call on him, on whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?, whereby he, being convinced of his sin and misery, and of the disability in himself and all other creatures to recover him out of his lost condition Act. 2. 37. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their hearts, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the Apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do to be saved? Act. 16. 30. And brought them out, and said, Sirs, What must we do to be saved? Joh. 16. 8, 9. And when he is come he will convince the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgement. Of sin, because they believe not in me —Rom. 5. 6. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. Eph. 2. 1. And you hath he quickned, who were dead in trespasses and sins. Act. 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., not onely assenteth to the truth of the promise of the Gospel Eph. 1. 13. In whom ye also trusted after that ye heard the word of truth, the Gospel of your salvation, in whom also after ye believed ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise., but receiveth and resteth upon Christ and his righteousness therein held forth, for pardon of sin Joh. 1. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. Act. 16. 31. And they said, Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved and thine house. Act. 10. 43. To him give all the Prophets witness, that through his name, whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins., and for the accepting and accounting of his person righteous in the fight of God for salvation Phil. 3. 9. And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness which is by the Law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith. Act. 15. 11. But we believe that through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, we shall be saved even as they..

Q. How doth Faith justifie a Sinner in the sight of God?

A. Faith justifies a sinner in the sight of God, not because of those other graces which do alwayes accompany it, or of good works that are the fruits of it Gal. 3. 11. But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, is evident: for the just shall live by faith. Rom. 3. 28. Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law., nor as if the grace of Faith, or any act thereof, were imputed to him for his justification Rom. 4. 5. But to him that worketh not but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness, Compared with Rom. 10. 10. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation., but onely as it is an Instrument, by which he receiveth and applieth Christ and his righteousness Joh. 1. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. Phil. 3. 9. And be found in him not having mine own righteousness which is by the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith. Gal. 2. 16. Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus 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..

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Q. What is Adoption?

A. Adoption is an act of the free grace of God 1 Joh. 3. 1. Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God., in and for his onely Son Jesus Christ Eph. 1. 5. Having predestinated us to the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will. Gal. 4. 4, 5. But when the fulness of time was come, God sent forth his Son made of a woman, made under the law, to redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons., whereby all those that are justified are received into the number of his children Joh. 1. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name., have his Name put upon them 2 Cor. 6. 18. And I will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. Rev. 3. 12. Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the Temple of my God, and he shall go no more out, and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the City of my God, which is new Jerusalem that cometh down out of heaven from my God, and I will write upon him my new name., the Spirit of his Son given to them Gal. 4. 6. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father., are under his fatherly care and dispensations Psal. 103. 13. Like as a Father pittieth his children, so the Lord pittieth them that serve him. Prov. 14. 26. In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence, and his children shall have a place of refuge. Mat. 6. 32. For your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things., admitted to all the liberties and priviledges of the sons of God, made heirs of all the promises, and fellow-heirs with Christ in glory Heb. 6. 12. That ye be not flothfull, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Rom. 8. 17. And if children then heirs, hoirs of God, and joynt-heirs with Christ, if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together..

Q. What is Sanctification?

A. Sanctification is a work of Gods grace, whereby they, whom God hath before the foundation of the world chosen to be holy, are in time, through the powerful operation of his Spirit Eph. 1. 4. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy, and without blame before him in love. 1 Cor. 6. 11. And such were some of you; but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified, in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. 2 Thess. 2. 13. But we are bound to give thanks to God alway for you, brethren, beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation, through sanctification of the Spirit, and belief of the truth., applying the death and resurrection of Christ unto them Rom. 6. 4, 5, 6. Therefore we are buried with him by Baptisme into death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. V. 5.] For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection. V. 6.] Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin., renewed in their whole man after the Image of God Eph. 4. 23, 24. And be renewed in the Spirit of your mind; and that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness., having the seeds of Repentance [Page 191] unto life, and of all other saving graces put into their hearts Act. 11. 18. When they heard these things they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life. 1 Joh. 3. 9. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him, and he cannot sin because he is born of God., and those graces so stirred up, increased, and strengthened Jude v. 20. But ye beloved, building up your selves in your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost. Heb. 6. 11, 12. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end; V. 12.] That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. Eph. 3. 16, 17, 18, 19. That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might, by his Spirit in the inner man. V. 17.] That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith, that ye being rooted and grounded in love. V. 18.] may be able to comprehend with all Saints, what is the breadth and depth, and length, and height, V. 19.] And to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God. Col. 1. 10, 11. That ye might walk worthy of the Lord, unto all pleasing, being fruitfull in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God. V. 11.] Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness., as that they more and more die unto sin, and rise unto newness of life Rom. 6. 4-6-14. Therefore we are buried with him by baptisme unto death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we also should walk in newness of life—V. 6.] Knowing this that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin,—V. 14.] For sin shall not have dominion over you; for ye are not under the law, but under grace. Gal. 5. 24. And they that are Christs have crucified the flesh, with the affections and lusts..

Q. What is repentance unto life?

A. Repentance unto life, is a saving Grace 2 Tim. 2. 25. In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves, if God peradventure may give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth., wrought in the heart of a sinner by the Spirit Zech. 12. 10. And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace, and of supplications, and they shall look on me whom they have pierced, and mourn for him as one mourneth for his onely son, and shall be in bitterness as one that is in bitterness for his first-born. and word of God Act. 11. 18.-20, 21. When they heard these things they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.—V. 20.] And some of them were men of Cyprus, and Cyrene; who when they were come to Antioch, spake unto the Grecians, preaching the Lord Jesus. V. 21.] And the hand of the Lord was with them, and a great number believed and turned to the Lord., whereby out of the sight and sense not onely of the danger Ezek. 18. 28-30-32. Because he considereth and turneth away from all his transgressions that he hath committed, he shall surely live, he shall not die.—V. 30.] Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, every one according to his wayes, saith the Lord God. Repent and turn your selves from all your transgressions, so in [...]quity shall not be your ruine—V. 32.] For I have no pleasure in the death of him that dies, saith the Lord God: wherefore turn your selves and live ye. Luke 15. 17, 18. And when he came to himself he said, How many hired servants of my fathers have bread enough, and to spare, and I perish with hunger? I will arise, and go to my father, and say unto him, father I have sinned against heaven, and before thee. Hos. 2. 6, 7. Therefore behold I will hedge up thy way with thorns, and make a wall, that she shall not find her paths. V. 7.] And she shall follow after her lovers, but shall not overtake them; and she shall seek them, but shall not find them. Then shall she say, I will go and return to my first husband; for then was it better with me then now., but also of the filthiness and odiousness [Page 192] of his sins Eze. 36. 31. Then shall ye remember your own evil wayes, and your doings which were not good, and shall loath your selves in your ownsight for your iniquities, and for your abominations. Isai. 30. 22. Ye shall defile also the covering of thy graven Images of silver, and the ornaments of thy molten Images of gold; thou shalt cast them away as a menstruous cloth, thou shalt say unto it, get thee hence., and upon the apprehension of Gods mercy in Christ to such as are penitent Joel 2. 12, 13. Therefore also now saith the Lord, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting and weeping, and mourning. V. 13.] And rent your heart and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness, and repenteth him of the evil., he so grieves for Jer. 31. 18, 19. I have surely heard Ephraim bemoaning himself thus, Thou hast chastised me, and I was chastised, as a bullock unaccustomed to the yoak: Turn thou me, and I shall be turned: thou art the Lord my God. V. 19.] Surely after that I was turned, I repented, and after that I was instructed, I smote upon my thigh; I was ashamed, yea even confounded, because I did bear the reproach of my youth., and hates his sins 2 Cor. 7. 11. For behold this self same thing, that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what cleering of your selves, yea what indignation, yea what fear, yea what vehement desire, yea what zeal, yea what revenge, in all things ye have approved your selves to be cleer in this matter., as that he turns from them all to God Act. 26. 18. To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and an inheritance among them that are sanctified by faith that is in me. Ezek. 14. 6. Therefore say unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord God, Repent and turn your selves from your Idols, and turn away your faces from all your abominations. 1 King. 8. 47, 48. Yet if they shall bethink themselves in the land whither they were carried captives, and repent, and make supplication to thee in the land of them that carried them captives, saying, We have sinned and done perversly, we have committed wickedness. V. 48.] And so return unto thee with all their heart, and with all their soul.—, purposing and endeavouring constantly to walk with him in all the wayes of new obedience Psal. 119. 6-59.-28. Then shall not I be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. V. 59.] I intreated thy favour with my whole heart; be merciful unto me according to thy word—V. 28.] My soul melteth for heaviness; strengthen thou me according unto thy word. Luke 1. 6. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments, and ordinances of the Lord, blameless. 2 King 23. 25. And like unto him was there no King before him, that turned to the Lord with all his heart, and with all his soul, and with all his might, according to all the Law of Moses, neither after him arose there any like him..

Q. Wherein do Justification and Sanctification differ?

A. Although Sanctification be inseparably joyned with Justification 1 Cor. 6. 11. And such were some of you but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. 1 Cor. 1. 30. But of him are ye in Christ Jesus; who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption., yet they differ, in that God in Justification imputeth the righteousness of Christ Rom. 4. 6-8. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works—V. 8.] Blessed is the man unto whom the Lord will not impute sin., in Sanctification his Spirit infuseth grace, and enableth to [Page 193] the exercise thereof Ezek. 36. 27. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgements and do them.; in the former, sin is pardoned Rom. 3. 24, 25. Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Jesus Christ. V. 25.] Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past through the forbearance of God., in the other it is subdued Rom. 6. 6-14. Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin—V. 14.] For sin shall not have dominion over you, for ye are not under the law, but under grace., the one doth equally free all believers from the revenging wrath of God, and that perfectly in this life, that they never fall into condemnation Rom. 8. 3, 334. Who shall lay any thing to the charge of Gods elect? It is God that justifieth, who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the righthand of God, who also maketh intercession for us., the other is neither equal in all 1 Joh. 2. 12, 13, 14. I write unto you, little children, because your sins are forgiven you, for his names sake. V. 13.] I write unto you, Fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I write unto you, young men, because ye have overcome the wicked one. I write unto you, little children, because ye have known the Father. V. 14.] I have written unto you fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one. Heb. 5. 12, 13, 14. For, when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again, which be the first-principles of the Oracles of God, and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. V. 13.] For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness, for he is a babe. V. 14.] But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use, have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil., nor in this life perfect in any 1 Joh. 1. 8.-10. And if we say, that we have no sin, we deceive our selves and the truth is not in us—V. 10.] If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a lyar, and his word is not in us., but growing up to perfection 2 Cor. 7. 1. Having therefore these promises (dearly beloved) let us cleanse our selves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. Phil. 3. 12, 13, 14. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect, but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that, for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. V. 13.] Brethren, I count not my self to have apprehended, but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before. V. 14.] I press toward the mark, for the price of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus..

Q. Whence ariseth the imperfection of Sanctification in believers?

A. The imperfection of Sanctification in believers, ariseth from the remnants of sin abiding in every part of them, and the perpetual lustings of the flesh against the spirit, whereby they are often foiled with temptations, and fall into many sins Rom. 7. 18-23. For I know that in me, that is, in my flesh dwelleth no good thing; for, to will is present with me, but how to perform that which is good, I find not—V. 23.] But I see another law in my members warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. Mark 14 66—to the end. And as Peter was beneath in the Palace, there cometh one of the maids of the High Priest, &c. —Gal. 2. 11, 12. But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. V. 12.] For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles, but when they were come, he withdrew, and separated himself, fearing them who were of the circumcision., are hindered in all their spiritual [Page 194] services Heb. 12. 1. Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us., and their best works are imperfect and defiled in the sight of God Isai. 64. 6. But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags, and we all do fade as a leaf, and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. Exod. 28. 38. And it shall be upon Aarons forhead, that Aaron may bear the iniquity of the holy things, which the children of Israel shall hallow in all their holy gifts; and it shall be alwayes upon his forhead, that they may be accepted before the Lord..

Q. May not true believers by reason of their imperfections; and the many temptations and sins they are overtaken with, fall away from the state of Grace?

A. True believers by reason of the unchangeable love of God Jer. 31. 3. The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love, therefore with loving kindness have I drawn thee., and his decree and covenant to give them perseverance 2 Tim. 2. 19. Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, the Lord knoweth them that are his; and let every one that nameth the name of Christ, depart from iniquity. Heb. 13. 20, 21. Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, V. 21.] Make you perfect in every good work, to do his will, working in you that which is well pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory, &c. 2 Sam. 23. 5. Although my house be not so with God, yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things, and sure; for this is all my salvation and all my desire, although he make it not to grow., their inseparable union with Christ 1 Cor. 1. 8, 9. Who shall confirm you unto the end, that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ. V. 9.] God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord., his continual intercession for them Heb. 7. 25. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost who come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them. Luke 22. 32. But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not, and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren., and the spirit and seed of God abiding in them 1 Joh. 3. 9. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin, for his seed remaineth in him, and he cannot sin because he is born of God. 1. Joh. 2. 27. But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him., can neither totally nor finally fall away from the state of Grace Jer. 32. 40. And I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will not turn away from them to do them good, but I will put my fear in their hearts, that they shall not depart from me. John 10. 28. I give unto them eternal life, and they shall never perish, neither shall any pluck them out of my hand., but are kept by the power of God through Faith unto salvation 1 Pet. 1. 5. Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation, ready to be revealed in the last time..

Q. Can true believers be infallibly assured that they are in the Estate of grace, and that they shall persevere therein unto salvation?

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A. Such as truly believe in Christ, and endeavour to walk in all good conscience before him 1 Joh. 2. 3. And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments., may, without extraordinary revelation, by faith grounded upon the truth of Gods promises, and by the Spirit enabling them to discern in themselves those graces to which the promises of life are made 1 Cor. 2. 12. Now we have received, not the Spirit of the world, but the Spirit which is of God, that we might know the things that are freely given us of God. 1 Joh. 3. 14-18, 19-21-24. We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren; he that loveth not his brother, abideth in death—V. 18.] My little children, let us not love in word, nor in tongue, but in deed and in truth. V. 19. And hereby we know we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him.—V. 21.] Beloved, if our heart condemn us not, then have we confidence towards God.—V. 24.] And he that keepeth his commandments dwelleth in him, and he in him; and hereby we know that he abideth in us, by the Spirit which he hath given us. 1 Joh. 4. 13-16. Hereby we know that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit—V. 16.] And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love, and he that dwelleth in love, dwelleth in God, and God in him. Heb. 6. 11, 12. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence, to the full assurance of hope unto the end. V. 12.] That ye be not slothful but followers of them who through faith, and patience inherit the promises., and bearing witness with their Spirits that they are the children of God Rom. 8. 16. The Spirit it self beareth witness with our Spirit, that we are the children of God., be infallibly assured that they are in the estate of grace, and shall persevere therein unto salvation 1 Joh. 5. 13. These things have I written unto you, that believe on the name of the Son of God, that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God..

Q. Are all true believers at all times assured of their present being in the estate of grace; and that they shall be saved?

A. Assurance of grace and salvation not being of the essence of faith Eph. 1. 13. In whom ye also trusted after that ye heard the word of truth, the Gospel of your salvation, in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with the holy Spirit of promise., true believers may wait long before they obtain it Isa. 50. 10. Who is among you that feareth the Lord, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness and hath no light, let him trust in the Lord, and stay upon his God. Psal. 88. throughout. O Lord God of my salvation, I have cried day and night, &c., and after the enjoyment thereof may have it weakened and intermitted through manifold distempers, sins, temptations, and desertions Psal. 77: 1. to the 12. verse. I cried unto thee with my voice, &c. Cant. 5. 2, 3.-6. I sleep, but my heart waketh; it is the voice of my beloved that knocketh, saying, Open to me, my sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled; for my head is filled with dew, and my locks with the drops of the night. V. 3.] I have put off my coat, how shall I put it on? I have washed my feet, how shall I defile them—V. 8.] I opened to my beloved, but my beloved had withdrawn himself, and was gone; my soul failed when he spake; I sought him, but I could not find him; I called him, but he gave me no answer. Psal. 51. 8-12. Make me to hear joy and gladnesse, that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoyce. V. 12.] Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation, and uphold me with thy free Spirit. Psal. 31. 22. For I said in my haste, I am cut off from before thine eyes; nevertheless thou heardst the voice of my supplications when I cried unto thee. Psal. 22. 1. My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring?, yet [Page 196] are they never left without such a presence and support of the Spirit of God, as keeps them from sinking into utter despair 1 Joh. 3. 9. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin: for his seed remaineth in him, and he cannot sin because he is born of God. Job 13. 15. Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him; but I will maintain mine own wayes before him. Psal. 73. 15.-23. If I say, I will speak thus, behold, I should offend against the generation of thy children. V. 23.] Nevertheless I am continually with thee, thou hast holden me by thy right hand. Isa. 54. 7, 8, 9, 10. For a small moment have I forsaken thee, but with great mercies will I gather thee. V. 8.] In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment, but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the Lord my Redeemer—V. 9.] For this is as the waters of Noah unto me; for as I have sworn that the waters of Noah shall no more go over the earth, so have I sworn that I would not be wroth with thee, nor rebuke thee. V. 10.] For the mountaines shall depart, and the hills shall be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee..

Q. What is the communion in Glory, which the members of the Invisible Church have with Christ?

A. The communion in glory which the members of the Invisible Church have with Christ is, in this life 2 Cor. 3. 18. But we all with open face beholding, as in a glass, the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image, from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord., immediately after death Luk. 23. 43. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in Paradise., and at last perfected at the resurrection and day of Judgment 1 Thess. 4. 17. Then we who are alive, and remain, shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air, and so shall we ever be with the Lord..

Q. What is the communion in Glory, with Christ, which the members of the Invisible Church enjoy in this life?

A. The members of the Invisible Church have communicated to them in this life, the first fruits of glory with Christ, as they are members of him their head, and so, in him, are interested in that glory which he is fully possessed of Eph. 2. 5, 6. Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickned us together with Christ (by grace ye are saved); And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus., and, as an earnest thereof, enjoy the sense of Gods love Rom. 5. 5. And hope maketh not ashamed, because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts, by the Holy Ghost which is given to us. Compared with 2 Cor. 1. 22. Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts., peace of conscience, joy in the Holy Ghost, and hope of glory Rom. 5. 1, 2. Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. V. 2.] By whom also we have access by faith into the grace wherein we stand, and rejoyce in hope of the glory of God. Rom. 14. 17. For the kingdome of God is not meat and drink, but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.: as, on the contrary, [Page 197] the sense of Gods revenging wrath, horror of conscience, and a fearful expectation of judgement, are, to the wicked, the beginning of their torments which they shall endure after death Gen. 4. 13. And Cain said unto the Lord, My punishment is greater then I can bear. Mat. 27. 4.—Saying, I have sinned, in that I have betrayed innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to it. Heb. 10. 27.—But a certain fearful looking for, of judgement, and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. Rom. 2. 9. Tribulation and anguish upon every soul of man that doth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile. Mark 9. 44. Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched..

Q. Shall all men die?

A. Death being threatned as the wages of sin Rom. 6. 23. For the wages of sin is death: but the gift of God is eternaal life through Jesus Christ our Lord., it is appointed unto all men once to die Heb. 9. 27. And as it is appointed unto all men once to die, but after death the judgement., for that all have sinned 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. Death being the wages of sin, why are not the righteous delivered from death, seeing all their sins are forgiven in Christ?

A. The righteous shall be delivered from death it self at the last day, and even in death are delivered from the sting and curse of it 1 Cor. 15. 26.-55. The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death—V. 55. O death, where is thy sting? &c. Heb. 2. 15.—And deliver them who through fear of death, were all their life-time subject to bondage., so that, although they die, yet it is out of Gods love Isa. 57. 1, 2. The righteous perisheth, and no man layes it to heart; and merciful men are taken away, none considering that the righteous is taken away from the evil to come. V. 2.] He shall enter into peace, they shall rest in their beds, each one walking in his uprightness. 2 King. 22. 20. Behold therefore I will gather thee unto thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered into thy grave in peace, and thine eyes shall not see all the evil which I will bring upon this place., to free them perfectly from sin and misery Rev. 14. 13. And I heard a voice from heaven, saying unto me, write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth, yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours, and their works do follow them. Eph. [...]. 27. That he might present it to himself a glorious Church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing, but that it should be holy and without blemish., and to make them capable of further communion with Christ in glory, which they then enter upon Luk. 23. 43. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, This day shalt thou be with me in Paradise. Phil. 1. 23. For I am in a streight betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ, which is far better..

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Q. What is the communion in Glory with Christ, which the members of the invisible Church enjoy immediately after death?

A. The communion in Glory with Christ, which the members of the invisible Church enjoy immediately after death, is, in that their souls are then made perfect in holiness Heb. 12. 23. To the general assembly and Church of the first-born, which are written in heaven, and to God the judge of all, and to the Spirits of just men made perfect., and received into the highest heavens 2 Cor. 5. 1.-6-8. For we know that if our earthly house of this Tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens—V. 6.] Therefore we are alwayes confident, knowing that while we are present in the body, we are absent from the Lord—V. 8.] We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and present with the Lord. Phil. 1. 23. For I am in a streight betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ, which is far better. Compared with Act. 3. 21. Whom the heavens must receive, untill the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy Prophets, since the world began. And with Eph. 4. 10. He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that he might fill all things., where they behold the face of God in light and glory 1 Joh. 3. 2. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that when he shall appear, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. 1 Cor. 13. 12. For now we see through a glass, darkly, but then, face to face: now I know in part, but then I shall know even as also I am known., waiting for the full redemption of their bodies Rom. 8. 23. And not onely they, but our selves also, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, even we our selves, groan within our selves, waiting for the Adoption, to wit, the Redemption of our body. Psal. 16. 9. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoyceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope., which even in death continue united to Christ 1 Thess. 4. 14. For if we believe that Jesus died, and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him., and rest in their graves as in their beds Esa. 57. 2. He shall enter into peace, they shall rest in their beds, each one walking in his uprightness., till at the last day they be again united to their souls ^r: whereas the souls of the wicked are at death cast into hell, where they remain in torments and utter darkness, and their bodies kept in their graves, as in their prisons, till the resurrection and judgement of the great day Luk. 16. 23, 24. And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosome. V. 24.] And he cried and said, Father Abraham have mercy on me, and send Lazarus that he may dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am tormented in this flame. Act. 1. 25. That he may take part of this Ministery, and Apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. Jude v. 6, 7. And the Angels which kept not their first estate, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness, unto the judgement of the great day. V. 7.] Even as Sodom and Gomorrha and the Cities round about them in like manner giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.. (t) Job 19. 26, 27. And though after my skin, worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God. V. 27.] Whom I shall see for my self, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another, though my reins be consumed within me

Q. What are we to believe concerning the Resurrection?

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A. We are to believe that at the last day there shall be a general resurrection of the dead, both of the just and unjust Act, 24. 15. And have hope towards God, which they themselves also allow, that there shall be a resurrection of the dead, both of the just, and unjust., when they that are then found alive, shall in a moment be changed; and the self same bodies of the dead which were laid in the grave, being then again united to their souls for ever, shall be raised up by the power of Christ 1 Cor. 15. 51, 52, 53. Behold I shew you a mystery, we shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed. V. 52.] In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump (for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed:) V. 53.] For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality, 1 Thess. 4. 15, 16, 17. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, and remain unto the coming of the Lord, shall not prevent them who are asleep. V. 16.] For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God; and the dead in Christ shall rise first. V. 17.] Then we who are alive, and remain, shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air, and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Joh. 5. 28, 29. Marvail not at this, for the hour is coming in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, V. 29.] And shall come forth, they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life, and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation.; the bodies of the just, by the Spirit of Christ, and by vertue of his resurrection, as their head, shall be raised in power, spiritual, incorruptible, and made like to his glorious body 1 Cor. 15. 21, 22, 23.-42, 43, 44. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. V. 22.] For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. V. 23.] But every man in his own order, Christ the first fruits, afterwards they that are Christs at his coming—V. 42.] So also is the resurrection of the dead; it is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption, V. 43.] It is sown in dishonour, it is raised in glory: it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power; V. 44.] It is sown a natural body, it is raised a Spiritual body. Phil. 3. 21. Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working, whereby he is able to subdue all things unto himself., and the bodies of the wicked shall be raised up in dishonour, by him, as an offended Judge Joh. 5. 27, 28, 29. And hath given him authority to execute judgement also, because he is the son of man. V. 28] Marvail not at this, for the hour is coming in which all that are in the graves, shall hear his voice, V. 29.] And shall come forth, they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life, and they that have done evil unto the resurrection of damnation. Mat. 25. 33. And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left..

Q. What shall immediately follow after the resurrection?

A. Immediately after the resurrection shall follow the general and final judgement of Angels and men 2 Pet. 2. 4. For if God spared not the Angels that sinned, but cast them down to hell, and delivered them into chains of darkness to be reserved unto judgement. Jude v. 6, 7-14, 15. And the Angels which kept not their first station, but left their own habitation, he hath reserved in everlasting chains under darkness, unto the judgement of the great day. V. 7.] Even as Sodom and Gomorrah, and the cities about them, in like manner giving themselves over to fornication, and going after strange flesh, are set forth for an example, suffering the vengeance of eternal fire.—V. 14.] And Enoch also, the seventh from Adam prophesied of these, saying, Behold, the Lord cometh with ten thousands of his Saints, V. 15.] To execute judgement upon all, and to convince all that are ungodly among them, of all their ungodly deeds which they have ungodly committed, and of all their hard speeches, which ungodly sinners have spoken against him. Mat. 25. 46. And those shall go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into life eternal., the [Page 200] day and hour whereof no man knoweth, that all may watch and pray, and be ever ready for the coming of the Lord Mat. 24. 36-42-44. But of that day and hour knowes no man, no not the Angels of heaven, but my Father onely.—V. 42.] Watch therefore, for ye know not the hour when your Lord doth come.—V. 44.] Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not, the Son of man cometh. Luke 21. 35, 36. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. V. 36.] Watch ye therefore and pray alwayes, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man..

Q. What shall be done to the wicked at the day of judgement?

A. At the day of judgement the wicked shall be set on Christs left hand Mat. 25. 33. And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left., and, upon cleer evidence, and full conviction of their own consciences Rom. 2. 15, 16. Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing, or excusing one another. V. 16.] In the day when he shall judge the secrets of men, by Jesus Christ according to my Gospel., shall have the fearful, but just sentence of condemnation pronounced against them Mat. 25. 41, 42, 43. Then shall he say also to them on the left hand, depart from me ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the Divel and his Angels. V. 42.] For I was an hungred and ye gave no meat, I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink, V. 43.] I was a stranger, and ye took me not in; naked and ye clothed me not; sick, and in prison and ye visited me not.; and thereupon shall be cast out from the favourable presence of God, and the glorious fellowship with Christ, his Saints, and all his holy Angels, into hell, to be punished with unspeakable torments both of body and soul, with the Divel and his Angels for ever Luke 16. 26. And besides all this, there is a great gulf fixed, so that they which would pass from hence to you, cannot, neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence. 2 Thess. 1. 8, 9. In flaming fire, taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. V. 9.] Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power..

Q. What shall be done to the righteous at the day of judgement?

A. At the day of judgement, the righteous being caught up to Christ in the clouds 1 Thes. 4. 17. Thou we which are alive and remain, shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air, and so shall we ever be with the Lord., shall be set on his right hand, and there openly acknowledged, and acquitted [Page 201] Mat. 25. 33. And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Mat. 10. 32. Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.; shall joyn with him in the judging of reprobate Angels and men 1 Cor. 6. 2, 3. Do ye not know that the Saints shall judge the world? And if the world, &c.—V. 3. Know ye not that we shall judge Angels? how much more then the things that pertain to this life?, and shall be received into heaven Mat. 25. 34.-46. Then shall the King say to them on his right hand, come ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world—V. 46.] And these shall go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into life eternal.; where they shall be fully and for ever freed from all sin and misery Eph. 5. 27. That he might present it to himself a glorious Church, not having spot or wrinkle, nor any such thing, but that it should be holy, and without blemish. Rev. 14. 13. And I heard a voice from heaven, saying unto me, write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth, yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours, and their works do follow them., filled with unconceivable joyes Psal. 16. 11. Thou wilt shew me the path of life, in thy presence is fulness of joy, and at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore., made perfectly holy and happy both in body and soul, in the company of innumerable Saints, and holy Angels Heb. 12. 22, 23. But ye are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and [...]o an innumerable company of Angels, V. 23.] To the general assembly of the first born, which are written in heaven, and to God, the Judge of all, and to the Spirits of just men made perfect., but especially in the immediate vision and fruition of God the Father, of our Lord Jesus Christ, and of the holy Spirit, to all eternity 1 Joh. 3. 2. Beloved, now are we the Sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that when we appear we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 1 Cor. 13. 12. For now we see through a glass darkly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then shall I know, even as I am known. 1 Thes. 4. 17, 18. Then we who are alive and remain, shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air, and so shall we ever be with the Lord. V. 18.] Wherefore comfort one another with these words.: and this is the perfect and full communion which the members of the invisible Church shall enjoy with Christ in glory at the resurrection and day of judgement.

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Having seen, what the Scriptures principally teach us to believe concerning God; it followes to consider, what they require as the duty of man.

Quest. VVHat is the duty that God requireth of man?

A. The duty which God requireth of man, is, obedience to his revealed will Rom. 12. 1, 2. I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. V. 2.] And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, that acceptable and perfect will of God. Mic. 6. 8. He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God. 1 Sam. 15. 22. And Samuel said, Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt-offerings and sacrifices, as in ob [...]ying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey, is better then sacrifice; and to hearken, then the fat of rams..

Q. What did God at first reveal unto man as the rule of his obedience?

A. The rule of obedience revealed to Adam in the estate of innocency, and to all mankind in him, beside a special command, not to eat of the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, was, the Moral Law Gen. 1. 26, 27. And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness, and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the face of the earth. V. 27.] So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him, male and female created he them. Rom. 2. 14, 15. For when the Gentiles who have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the Law, these having not the law, are a law unto themselves; V. 15.] Which shew the work of the Law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another. Rom. 10. 5. For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, that the man which doth those things shall live by them. Gen. 2. 17. But of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day thou eatest thereof, thou shalt surely die..

Q. What is the Moral Law?

A. The Moral Law is the declaration of the will of God to mankind, directing and binding every one to personal, perfect, and perpetual conformity and obedience [Page 203] thereunto, in the frame and disposition of the whole man soul and body Deut. 5. 1, 2, 3,—31-33. And Moses called all Israel, and said unto them, Hear, O Israel, the Statutes and Judgements which I speak in your ears this day, that ye may learn them, and keep, and do them. V. 2.] The Lord our God made a covenant with us in Horeb. V. 3.] The Lord made not this covenant with our fathers, but with us, even us; who are all of us alive here this day—V. 31] But as for thee stand thou here by me, and I will speak unto thee all the Commandments, and the Statutes and the Judgements which thou shalt teach them, that they may do them in the land which I give them to possess it—V. 33.] Ye shall walk in all the wayes which the Lord your God hath commanded you, that ye may live, and that it may be well with you, and that ye may prolong your dayes in the land which ye shall possess. Luk. 10. 26, 27. What is written in the law? how readest thou? V. 27.] And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind, and thy neighbour, as thy self. Gal. 3. 10. For as many, as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things contained in the book of the law to do them. 1 Thes. 5. 23. And the very God of peace sanctifie you wholly, And I pray God your whole Spirit, and soul and body, be preserved blameless untill the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ., and in performance of all those duties of holiness and righteousness which he oweth to God and man Luk. 1. 75. In holiness and righteousness before him all the dayes of our life. Act. 24. 16. And herein do I exercise my self, to have alwayes a conscience void of offence both towards God and towards men.; promising life upon the fulfilling, and threatning death upon the breach of it Rom. 10. 5. For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, that the man which doth these things shall live by them. Gal. 3. 10.-12. For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things that are written in the book of the law to do them—V. 12.] And the law is not of faith, but the man that doth them shall live in them..

Q. Is there any use of the Moral Law to man, since the fall?

A. Although no man, since the fall, can attain to righteousness and life by the Moral Law Rom. 8. 3. For what the law could not do, for that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinfull flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh. Gal. 2. 16. Knowing this that a man is not justified by the works of the Law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus 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., yet there is great use thereof, as well common to all men, as peculiar either to the unregenerate, or the regenerate 1 Tim. 1. 8. But we know that the law is good, if a man use it lawfully..

Q. Of what use is the Moral Law to all m [...]n?

A. The Moral Law is of use to all men, to inform [Page 204] them of the holy nature and will of God Lev. 11. 44, 55. For I am the Lord your God, ye shall therefore sanctifie your selves, and ye shall be holy, for I am holy, neither shall ye defile your selves with any manner of creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. V. 45.] For I am the Lord that bringeth you up out of the land of Egypt, to be your God, ye shall therefore be holy, for I am holy. Lev. 20. 7, 8. Sanctifie your selves therefore, and be ye holy: for I am the Lord your God. V. 8.] And ye shall keep my Statutes, and do them: I am the Lord which sanctifie you. Rom. 7. 12. Wherefore the Law is holy, and the commandment holy, just and good., and of their duty, binding them to walk accordingly Mich. 6. 8. He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God. Jam. 2. 10, 11. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. V. 11.] For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressour of the Law.; to convince them of their disability to keep it, and of the sinful pollution of their nature, hearts, and lives Psal. 19. 11, 12. Moreover by them is thy servant warned, and in keeping of them there is great reward. V. 12.] Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults. Rom. 3. 20. Therefore by the deeds of the law shall no flesh be justified in his sight; for by the law is the knowledge of sin. Rom. 7. 7. What 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., to humble them in sense of their sin and misery Rom. 3. 9-23. What then? are we better then they? No, in no wise; for we have before proved both Jewes and Gentiles that they are all under sin.—V. 23. For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God., and thereby help them to a clearer sight of the need they have of Christ Gal. 3. 21, 22. Is the law then against the promise of God? God forbid, for if there had been a law given, which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. V. 22.] But the Scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe., and of the perfection of his obedience Rom. 10. 4. For Christ is the end of the law, for righteousness to every one that believeth..

Q. What particular use is there of the Moral law to unregenerate men?

A. The Morall Law is of use to unregenerate men, to awaken their consciences to fly from wrath to come 1 Tim. 1. 9, 10. Knowing this that the Law is not made for a righteous man, but for the lawless, and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for unholy, and profane, for murderers of fathers, and murtherers of mothers, for man-slayers. V. 10.] For whore-mongers, for them that defile themselves with man-kind, for men-stealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine., and to drive them to Christ Gal. 3. 24. Wherefore the Law was our School Master to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith.; or, upon their continuance in the estate and way of sin, to leave them inexcusable Rom. 1. 20. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are cleerly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse. Compared with, Rom. 2. 15. Which shew the work of the Law written in their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts the meane while accusing one another., [Page 205] and under the curse thereof Gal. 3. 10. For as many as are of the works of the law, are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all the things which are written in the book of the Law, to do them..

Q. What special use is there of the Moral Law to the regenerate?

A. Although they that are regenerate, and believe in Christ, be delivered from the Moral Law as a Covenant of works Rom. 6. 14. For sin shall not have dominion over you; for ye are not under the law, but under grace. Rom. 7. 4, 6. Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law, by the body of Christ, that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God.—V. 6.] But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held, that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter. Gal. 4. 4, 5. But when the fulness of time was come, God sent forth his son made of a woman, made under the law. V. 5.] To redeem them that were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption of sons., so as thereby they are neither justified Rom. 3. 20. Therefore by the deeds of the Law shall no flesh be justified in his sight, for by the law is the knowledge of sin., nor condemned Gal. 5. 23. Meekness, Temperance, against such there is no law. Rom. 8. 1. There is now therefore no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.; yet beside the general uses thereof common to them with all men, it is of special use, to shew them how much they are bound to Christ for his fulfilling it, and enduring the curse thereof in their stead, and for their good Rom. 7. 24, 25. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from this body of death? V. 25.] I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord, so then with the mind I my self serve the law of God, but with the flesh, the law of sin. Gal. 3. 13, 14. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree. V. 14. That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. Rom. 8. 3, 4. For what the law could not do, for that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinfull flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh. V. 4.] That the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.; and thereby to provoke them to more thankfuluess Luk. 1. 68, 69,—74, 75. Blessed be the Lord God of Israel, who hath visited and redeemed his people. V. 69.] And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David—V. 74. That he would grant unto us that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies, might serve him without feare. V. 75.] In holiness and righteousness before him all the daies of our life. Col. 1. 12, 13, 14. Giving thanks unto the father who hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the Saints in light. V. 13.] Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the Kingdom of his dear Son. V. 14.] In whom we have redemption, through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins., and to express the same in their greater care to conform themselves thereunto as the rule [Page 206] of their obedience Rom. 7. 22. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man. Rom. 12. 2. And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mindes, that ye may prove what is that good, that acceptable and perfect will of God. Tit. 2. 11, 12, 13, 14. For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men. V. 12.] Teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present evil world. V. 13.] Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God, and our Lord Jesus Christ. V. 14.] Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purifie unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works..

Q. Where is the Moral Law summarily comprehended?

A. The Morall Law is summarily comprehended in the Ten Commandments, which were delivered by the voice of God upon mount Sinai, and written by him in two tables of stone Deut. 10. 4. And he wrote in the Tables according to the first writing, the ten Commandments, which the Lord spake unto you in the Mount, out of the midst of the fire, in the day of the assembly, and the Lord gave them unto me. Exod. 34. 1, 2, 3, 4. And the Lord said unto Moses, Hew thee [...]wo Tables of stone like unto the first, and I will write upon these Tables the words that were in the first Tables which thou brakest. V. 2.] And be ready in the morning, and come up into Mount Sinai, and present thy self there to me in the top of the mount. V. 3.] And no man shall come up with thee, &c.—V. 4.] And he hewed two Tables of stone like the first, and rose early in the morning, and went up into Mount Sinai, as the Lord had commanded him, and took in his hand the two Tables of stone., and are recorded in the twentieth chapter of Exodus; the four first Commandments containing our duty to God, and the other six our duty to man Matth. 22. 37, 38, 39, 40. Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. V. 38.] This is that first and great Commandment. V. 39.] And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thy self. V. 40.] On these two Commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets..

Q. What Rules are to be observed for the right understanding of the ten Commandments?

A. For the right understanding of the ten Commandments, these rules are to be observed.

1. That the Law is perfect, and bindeth every one to full conformity in the whole man unto the righteousness thereof, and unto intire obedience, for ever, so as, to require the utmost perfection of every duty, and to forbid [Page 207] the least degree of every sin Psal. 19. 7. The law of the Lord is perfect converting the soul; the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. Jam. 2. 10. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. Mat. 5. 21. to the end. Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill —But I say—and so on to the end..

2. That it is spiritual, and so, reacheth the Understanding, Will, Affections, and all other powers of the soul, as well as words, works, and gestures Rom. 7. 14. For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold under sin. Deut. 6. 5. Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. Compared with Mat. 22. 37, 38, 39. Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul and with all thy mind, V. 38.] This is the first and great Commandment. V. 39.] And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thy self. Matt. 5. 21, 22-27, 28,—36. to the end. Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill, and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgement. V. 22.] But I say unto you, that whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause, shall be in danger of the judgement; and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the Council; but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell-fire—V. 27.] Ye have heard that it hath been 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—V. 36.] Neither shalt thou swear by thine head. &c. to the end of the chapter..

3. That one and the same thing, in divers respects, is required or forbidden in several Commandments Col. 3. 5. Mortifie therefore your members which are upon the earth, fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness which is idolatry. Amos 8. 5. Saying, when will the New Moon be gone, that we may sell corn? and the sabbath, that we may set forth wheat? making the Ephah small, and the shekel great, and falsifying the balances by deceit. Pro. 1. 19. So are the wayes of every one that is greedy of gain, which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. 1 Tim. 6. 10. For the love of money, is the root of all evil, which while some have coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrowes..

4. That, as, where a duty is commanded, the contrary sin is forbidden Isa. 58. 13. If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight, the holy of the Lord honourable, and shalt honour him, not doing thine own wayes, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words—Deut. 6. 13. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his Name. Compared with, Mat. 4. 9, 10.—And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. V. 10.] Then said Jesus unto him, Get thee hence Satan, for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him onely shalt thou serve. Mat. 15. 4, 5, 6. For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and thy mother, and he that curseth father or mother, let him die the death. V. 5.] But ye say, that whosoever shall say to his father or mother, It is a gift by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me. And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition., and where a sin is forbidden, the [Page 208] contrary duty is commanded Mat. 5. 21, 22, 23, 24, 25. Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not kill, and whosoever shall kill, shall be in danger of the judgement. V. 22.] But I say unto you, whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause, shall be in danger of the judgement, and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the Council; but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of Hell fire. V. 23.] Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the Altar, and there remember that thy brother hath ought against thee. V. 24.] Leave there thy gift, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift. V. 25.] Agree with thine adversary while thou art in the way with him, least, &c. Eph. 4. 28. Let him that stole, steal no more, but rather let him work with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.: so, where a promise is annexed, the contrary threatning is included Exod. 20. 12. Honour thy father and mother, that thy dayes may be long in the land, which the Lord thy God giveth thee. Compared with Prov. 30. 17. The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the ravens of the valleys shall pick it out, and the young eagles shall eat it.; and, where a threatning is annexed, the contrary promise is included Jer. 18. 7, 8. At what instant I shall speak concerning a Nation or Kingdom, to pluck up, and to pull down, and to destroy it. V. 8.] If that nation against whom I have pronounced, turn from their evil, I will repent of the evil that I thought to do unto them. Exod. 20. 7. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltlesse that taketh his name in vain. Compared with Psal. 15. 1.-4, 5, Lord who shall abide in thy Tabernacle, and who shall dwell in thy holy Hill?—V. 4.] In whose eyes a vile person is contemned, but he honoureth them that fear the Lord: he that sweareth to his own hurt and changeth not. V. 5.] He that putteth not his money out to usury, nor—He that doth these things shall never be moved. And with Psal. 24. 4, 5. He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart, who hath not lift up his hands unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. V. 5.] He shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of his salvation..

5. That what God forbids, is at no time to be done Job 13. 7, 8. Will ye speak wickedly for God, and talk deceitfully for him? V. 8.] Will ye accept his person? will ye contend for God? Rom 3. 8. And not rather, as we are slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say, Let us do evil that good may come, whose damnation is just. Job 36. 21. Take heed, regard not iniquity, for this hast thou chosen rather then affliction. Heb. 11. 25. Chusing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God; then to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season., what he commands, is alwayes our duty Deut. 4. 8, 9. And what nation is there so great, that hath statutes and judgements so righteous as all this law which I set before you this day? V. 9.] Onely take heed to thy self, and keep thy soul diligently, least thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and least they depart from thy heart all the dayes of thy life, but teach them thy sons, and thy sons sons., and yet every particular duty is not to be done at all times Mat. 12. 7. But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless..

6. That, under one sin or duty, all of the same kind are forbidden or commanded, together with all [Page 209] the causes, means, occasions, and appearances thereof, and provocations thereunto Matt. 5. 21, 22-27, 28. See. (s) before. V. 27.] Ye have heard that it hath been said of old, Thou shalt not commit adultery: But I say unto you, whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her, hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. Mat. 15. 4, 5, 6. For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and thy mother; and he that curseth his father and his mother, let him die the death. V. 5.] But ye say, that whosoever shall say to his father or mother, It is a gift by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me, and honour not his father and his mother, he shall be free, thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition. Heb. 10. 24, 25. And let us consider one another to provoke unto love, and unto good works. V. 25.] Not forsaking the assembling of our selves together as the manner of some is, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as ye see the day approaching. 1 Thess. 5. 22. Abstain from all appearance of evil. Jude v. 23. And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment, spotted by the flesh. Gal. 5. 26. Let us not be desirous of vain-glory, provoking one another, envying one another. Col. 3. 21. Fathers provoke not your children to anger, least they be discouraged.

7. That what is forbidden or commanded to our selves, we are bound, according to our places, to endeavour that it may be avoided or performed by others, according to the duty of their places Exod. 20. 10—But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God, in it thou shalt do no manner of work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattel, nor the stranger that is within thy gates—Lev. 19. 17. Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thy heart, thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him, Gen. 18. 19. For I know him that he will command his children and his houshold after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgement, that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoke of him. Josh. 24. 15. And if it seem evil to you to serve the Lord, chuse you this day whom ye will serve—but as for me and my house we will serve the Lord. Deut. 6. 6, 7. And these words which I command thee this day shall be in thy heart, and thou shalt teach them diligently to thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up..

8. That, in what is commanded to others, we are bound according to our places and callings to be helpful to them 2 Cor. 1. 24. Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy—, and to take heed of pertaking with others in what is forbidden them 1 Tim. 5. 22. Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other mens sins; keep thy self pure. Eph. 5. 11. And have no fellowship with the unprofitable works of darkness, but rather reprove them..

Q. What special things are we to consider in the ten Commandments?

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A. We are to consider in the ten Commandments, the Preface, the substance of the Commandments themselves, and several reasons annexed to some of them, the more to inforce them.

Q. What is the Preface to the Commandments?

A. The Preface to the Commandments is contained, in these words [I am the Lord thy God which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt out of the house of bondage Exod. 20. 2.,] wherein God manifesteth his Soveraignty, as being Jehovah, the Eternal, Immutable, and Almighty God Isai. 44. 6. Thus saith the Lord the King of Israel, and his Redeemer the Lord of hosts, I am the first, and I am the last, and besides me there is no God., having his Being in and of himself 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., and giving being to all his words Ex. 6. 3. And I appeared unto Abraham and Isaac, and Jacob by the name of God Almighty; but by my name Jehovah was I not known to them., and works Act. 17. 24-28. God that made the world, and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven, and of earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands.—V. 28.] For in him we live, and move, and have our being, as certain also of your own Poets have said, For we are also of his off-spring., and that he is a God in Covenant, as with Israel of old, so with all his people Gen. 17. 7. And I will establish my Covenant between me and thee, and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting Covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee. Rom. 3. 29. Is he the God of the Jews onely? is he not also of the Gentiles? Yes, of the Gentiles also., who as he brought them out of their bondage in Egypt, so he delivereth us from our Spiritual thraldom Luke 1. 74, 75. That he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out of the hands of our enemies, might serve him without fear. V. 75.] In holiness and righteousness before him all the dayes of our life.; and that therefore we are bound to take him for our God alone, and to keep all his Commandments 1 Pet. 1. 15, 16, 17, 18. But as he who hath called you, is holy; so be ye holy in all manner of conversation. V. 16. Because it is written, Be ye holy, for I am holy. V. 17.] And if ye call on the father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every mans work, pass the time of your sojoruning here in fear. V. 18. Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers. Lev. 18. 30. Therefore shall ye keep mine Ordinances, that ye commit not any of these abominable customes which were committed before you, that ye defile not your selves therein: I am the Lord your God. Lev. 19. 37. Therefore shall ye observe all my Statutes, and all my judgements, and do them: I am the Lord..

Q. What is the sum of the four Commandments, which contain our duty to God?

A. The sum of the four Commandments containing our duty to God, is, to love the Lord our God with all our heart, and with all our soul, and with all our [Page 211] strength, and with all our minde Luk. 10. 27. And he answering said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all, &c..

Q. Which is the first Commandment?

A. The first Commandment is, Thou shalt have no other Gods before me Exod. 20. 3..

Q. What are the duties required in the first Commandment?

A. The duties required in the first Commandment, are, the knowing and acknowledging of God to be the only true God, and our God 1 Chron. 28. 9. And thou Solomon my son, Know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart, and with a willing mind; for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts; if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever. Deut. 26. 17. Thou hast avouched the Lord this day to be thy God, and to walk in his wayes, and to keep his statutes, and his commandments, and his judgements, and to hearken unto his voice. Esai. 43. 10. Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord, and my servant whom I have chosen; that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he, before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. Jer. 14. 22. Are there any among the vanities of the Gentiles that can cause rain? or can the heavens give showers? Art not thou he, O Lord our God? therefore we will wait upon thee, for thou hast made all these things.; and to worship and glorifie him accordingly Psal. 95. 6, 7. O come let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. V. 7.] For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hands. Mat. 4. 10. Then said Jesus unto him, Get thee hence Sathan, for it is written. Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him onely shalt thou serve. Psal. 29. 2. Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness., by thinking Mal. 3. 16. Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another, and the Lord hearkned and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord, and thought upon his name., meditating Psal. 63. 6. When I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watch., remembring Eccl. 12. 1. Remember now thy Creator in the dayes of thy youth, &c., highly esteeming Psal. 71. 19. Thy righteousness also, O God, is very high, who hast done great things. O God who is like unto thee?, honoring Mal. 1. 6. A son honoureth his father, and a servant his master; if then I be a father, where is mine honour? and if I be a master, where is my fear, saith the Lord of hosts, unto you, O Priests, that despise my name?, adoring Isa. 45. 23. I have sworn by my self, the word is gone out of my mouth in righteousness, and shall not return, that unto me every knee shall bow, every tongue shall swear., choosing Josh. 24. 15-22. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve, whether the God which your fathers served, that were on the other side of the flood, or the Gods of the Amorites in whose land ye dwell; but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord—V. 22.] And Joshua said unto the people, Ye are witnesses against your selves, that ye have chosen the Lord to serve him; And they said, we are witnesses., loving Deut. 6. 5. And thou shall love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might., desiring Psal. 73. 25. Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire besides thee., fearing of him Isa. 8. 13. Sanctifie the Lord of hosts himself, and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread., believing him Exod. 14. 31. And Israel saw the great work which the Lord did upon the Egyptians, and the people seared the Lord, and believed the Lord and his servant Moses., [Page 212] trusting Isa. 26. 4. Trust ye in the Lord for ever, for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength., hoping Psal. 130. 7. Let Israel hope in the Lord, for with the Lord there is mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption., delighting Psal. 37. 4. Delight thy self also in the Lord, and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart., rejoycing in him Psal. 32. 11. Be glad in the Lord and rejoyce ye righteous, and shout for joy all ye that are upright in heart., being zealous for him Rom. 12. 11. Not slothful in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. Compared with Numb. 25. 11. Phineas the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the Priest, hath turned my wrath away from the children of Israel (while he was zealous for my sake amongst them) that I consumed them not in my jealousie., calling upon him, giving all praise and thanks Phil. 4. 6. Be carefull for nothing, but in every thing, by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God., and yeilding all obedience and submission to him, with the whole man Jer. 7. 23. But this thing commanded I them, saying, Obey my voice, and I will be your God, and ye shall be my people, and walk ye in all the wayes that I have commanded you, that it may be well with you. Jam. 4. 7. Submit your selves therefore to God, resist the Devil and he will flee from you., being carefull in all things to please him 1 Joh. 3. 22. And whatsoever we ask we receive of him, because we keep his commandment, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight., and sorrowfull when in any thing he is offended Jer. 31. 18. I have surely heard Ephraim bemoaning himself thus, Thou hast chastised me, and I was chastised as a bullock unaccustomed to the yoak turn thou me, and I shall be turned, thou art the Lord my God. Psal. 119. 136. Rivers of waters run down mine eyes because men keep not thy law., and walking humbly with him Mich. 6. 8. He hath shewen thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justice, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?.

Q. What are the sinnes forbidden in the first Commandment?

A. The sins forbidden in the first Commandment, are, Atheism in denying, or not having a God Ps. 14. 1. The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God—Eph. 2. 12. That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the Common-wealth of Israel, and strangers from the Covenant of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world., Idolatry, in having, or worshipping more Gods then one, or any with, or instead of the true God Jer. 2. 27, 28. Saying to a stock, Thou art my father, and to a stone, Thou hast brought me forth; for they have turned their back upon me, and not their face; but in the time of their trouble they will say, arise and save us. V. 28.] But where are thy Gods that thou hast made thee? let them arise, if they can save thee in the time of thy trouble, for according to the number of thy Cities are thy Gods O Judah. Compared with 1 Thess. 1. 9. For they themselves shew of us what manner of entring in we had unto you, and how ye returned to God from Idols, to serve the living and true God.; the not having and avouching him for God, and our God Psal. 81. 11. But my people would not hearken to my voice, Israel would have none of me.; the omission or neglect of any thing due to him required in this Commandment [Page 213] Isa. 43. 22, 23, 24. But thou hast not called upon me, O Jacob, but thou hast been weary of me, O Israel. V. 23.] Thou hast not brought me the [...]mall cattel of thy burnt-offerings, neither hast thou honoured me with thy sacrifices—V. 24.] Thou hast bought me no sweet cane with money, nor hast thou filled me with the fat of thy sacrifices, but hast made me to serve with thy sins, thou hast wearied me with thine iniquities, ignorance Jer. 4. 22. For my people is foolish, they have not known me; they are foolish children, and have no understanding; they are wise to do evill, but to do good they have no knowledge. Hos. 4. 1-6. Hear the word of the Lord, ye children of Israel; for the Lord hath a controversie with the inhabitants of the land, because there is no truth, nor mercy, nor knowledge of God in the land—V. 6.] My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge, because thou hast rejected knowledge, I also will reject thee, that thou shalt be no Priest to me, seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I also will forget thy children., forgetfulness Jer. 2. 32. Can a maid forget her ornaments, or a bride her attire? yet my people have forgotten me dayes without number., misapprehensions Act. 17. 23-29. For as I passed by, and beheld your devotion, I found an Altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD; whom therefore ye ignorantly worship; him I declare unto you—V. 29.] Forasmuch then, as we are the off-spring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone graven by art or mans device., false opinions Isai. 40. 18. To whom then will ye liken God, or what likeness will ye compare unto him?, unworthy, and wicked thoughts of him Psal. 50. 21. These things hast thou done, and I kept silence, thou thoughtest that I was altogether such a one as thy self; but I will reprove thee, and set them in order before thine eyes., bold and curious searching into his secrets Deut. 29. 29. Secret things belong unto the Lord our God; but those things that are revealed belong unto us, and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of the law., all profaneness Tit. 1. 16. They profess they know God, but in works they deny him, being abominable, disobedient, and to every good work reprobate. Heb. 12. 16. Least there be among you any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat, sold his birthright., hatred of God Rom. 1. 30. Backbiters, haters of God, despightful, proud, boasters, &c., self-love 2 Tim. 3. 2. For men shall be lovers of themselves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy., self-seeking Phil. 2. 21. For all seek their own, not the things that are Jesus Christs., and all other inordinate and immoderate setting of our mind, will, or affections upon other things, and taking them off from him in whole or in part 1 Joh. 2. 15, 16. Love not the world, nor the things of the world. If any man love the world, the love of the father is not in him. V. 16.] For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life is not of the Father, but is of the world. 1 Sam. 2. 29. Wherefore kick ye at my sacrifice, and at mine offering which I have commanded in my habitation, and honourest thy sons above me, to make your selves fat with the chiefest of all the offerings of Israel my people? Col. 3. 2-5. Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth—V. 5.] For though I am absent in the flesh, yet I am with you in the Spirit, joying, and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ., vain credulity 1 Joh. 4. 1. Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits, whether they be of God, because many false Prophets are gone out into the world., unbelief Heb. 3. 12. Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God., heresie Gal. 5. 20. Idolatry, Witch-craft, Hatred, Variance, Emulations, Wrath, Strife, Seditions, Heresies. Tit. 3. 10. A man that is an heretick▪ after the first, and second admonition, reject., misbelief Act. 26. 9. I verily thought with my self, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth., [Page 214] distrust Psal. 78. 22. Because they believed not in God, nor trusted in his salvation., despair Gen. 4. 13. And Cain said unto the Lord, My punishment is greater then I can hear., incorrigibleness Jer. 5. 3. O Lord, are not thine eyes upon the truth? thou hast stricken them, but they have not grieved, thou hast consumed them, but they have refused to receive correction, they have made their faces harder then a rock, they have refused to return., insensibleness under judgements Isai. 42. 25. Therefore he hath poured upon him the fury of his anger, and the strength of battel; and it hath set him on fire round about, yet he knew it not; and it burned him, yet he laid it not to heart., hardness of heart 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., pride Jer. 13. 15. Hear ye and give ear; be not proud, for the Lord hath spoken it., presumption Psal. 19. 13. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins, let them not have dominion over me, then shall I be upright & innocent from the great transgression., carnal security Zeph. 1. 12. And it shall come to pass at that time, that I will search Jerusalem with candles, and punish the men that are setled on their lees, that say in their hearts, The Lord will not do good, neither will he do evil., tempting of God Mat. 4. 7. Jesus said unto him, it is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God., using unlawful means Rom. 3. 8. And not rather, as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say, Let us do evil that good may come, whose damnation is just., and trusting in lawful means Jer. 17. 5. Thus saith the Lord, Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the Lord., carnal delights and joyes 2 Tim. 3. 4. Traitors, heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasure, more then lovers of God.; corrupt, blind, and indiscreet zeal Gal. 4. 17. They zealously affect you, but not well, yea they would exclude you that ye might affect them. Joh. 16. 2.—Yea the time cometh that whosoever killeth you, will think that he doth God good service. Rom. 10. 2. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. Luk. 9. 54, 55. And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? V. 55.] But he turned and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of., luke-warmness Rev. 3. 16. So then because thou art luke-warm, and neither cold, nor hot, I will spew thee out of my mouth., and deadness in the things of God Rev. 3. 1. And unto the Angel in the Church of Sardis, write, These things saith he that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars, I know thy works, that thou hast a name, that thou livest, and art dead.; estranging our selves, and apostatizing from God Ezek. 14. 5. That I may take the house of Israel in their own heart, because they are all estranged from me, through their Idols. Isa. 1. 4, 5. Ah sinfull Nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evil-doers, children that are corrupters, they have forsaken the Lord, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone backward. V. 5.] Why should ye be stricken any more? ye will revolt more and more, the whole head is sick, &c., praying, or giving any religious worship to Saints, Angels, or any other creatures Rom. 10. 13, 14. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord, shall be saved. V. 14.] How then shall they call upon 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? Hos. 4. 12. My people ask counsel at their stocks, and their staff declareth unto them; for the spirit of whoredomes hath caused them to erre, and they have gone a whoring from under their God. Act. 10. 25, 26. And as Peter was coming in Cornelius met him, and fell down at his feet, and worshipped him. V. 26.] But Peter took him up, saying, stand up, I my selfe also am a man. Rev. 19. 10. I fell at his feet to worship him, and he said unto me, See thou do it not: I am thy fellow-servant, and of thy brethren that have the testimony of Jesus; worship God; for the testimony of Jesus is the Spirit of Prophecy. Mat. 4. 10. Then said Jesus unto him, Get thee hence Sathan, for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him onely shall thou serve. Col. 2. 18. Let no m [...]n beguile you of your reward, in a voluntary humility, and worshipping of Angels, intruding into those things which he hath not seen, vainly puft up by his fleshly mind. Rom. 1. 25. Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped, and served the creature more then the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen., all compacts, and consulting [Page 215] with the devil Lev. 20. 6. And the soul that turneth after such as have familiar spirits, and after wizards to go a whoring after them, I will even set my face against that soul, and will cut him off from among his people. 1 Sam. 28. 7-11. Then said Saul to his servants, Seek me a woman that hath a familiar spirit, that I may go to her, and enquire of her; and his servant said unto him, Behold there is a woman that hath a familiar spirit at Endor—V. 11.] Then said the woman, whom shall I bring up unto thee? and he said, bring me up Samuel. Compared with 1 Chron. 10. 13, 14. So Saul died for his transgression which he committed against the Lord, even against the word of the Lord, which he kept not; also for asking counsel of one that had a familiar spirit to enquire of it. V. 14.] And enquired not of the Lord, therefore he slew him, &c., and hearkening to his suggestions Act. 5. 3. But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thy heart to lie to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land., making men the Lords of our faith and Conscience 2 Cor. 1. 24. Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy; for by faith ye stand. Mat. 23. 9. And call no man your father upon earth, for one is your father which is in heaven.; slighting and despising God, and his commands Deut. 23. 15. But Jeshurun waxed fat and kicked; thou art waxed far, thou art grown thick, and thou art grown thick, and thou art covered with fatness; then he forsook the God that made him, and lightly esteemed the rock of his salvation. 2 Sam. 12. 9. Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the Lord, to do evil in his sight? thou hast killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, &c. Prov. 13. 13. Whoso despiseth the word, shall be destroyed; but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded., resisting and grieving of his spirit Act. 7. 51. Ye stiff-necked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do alwayes resist the Holy Ghost; as your fathers did, so do ye. Eph. 4. 30. And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed to the day of redemption., discontent, and impatience at his dispensations, charging him foolishly for the evils he inflicts on us Psal. 73. 2, 3-14, 15-22. But as for me, my feet were almost gone, my steps had well nigh slipt. V. 3.] For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked—V. 13.] Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain, and washed mine hands in innocency. For all the day long have I been plagued, and chastened every morning. V. 15.] If Isay I will speak thus, behold I should offend against the generation of thy children—V. 22.] So foolish was I, and ignorant; I was even as a beast before thee, Job 1. 22. In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly.; and ascribing the praise of any good we either are, have, or can do, to fortune 1 Sam. 6. 7, 8, 9. Now therefore make a new cart, and take two milch kine, on which there hath come no yoke, and tie the kine to the cart, and bring the calves home from them. V. 8.] And take the Ark of the Lord, and lay it upon the cart, and put the jewels of gold, which ye return him for a trespass-offering, in a coffer by the side thereof, and send it away that it may go. V. 9.] And see, if it goeth on by the way of his own coast to Bethshemesh, then he hath done us this great evil; but if not, then we shall know that it is not his hand that smote us, it was a chance that happened to us., Idols Dan. 5. 23. But hast lifted up thy self against the Lord of heaven, and they have brought the vessels of his house before thee; and thou, and thy Lords, thy wives and thy concubines have drunk wine in them, and thou hast praised the Gods of silver, of brass, iron, wood, and stone; which see not, nor hear, nor know; and the God in whose hand thy breath is, and whose are all thy wayes, hast thou not glorified?, our selves Deut. 8. 17. And thou say in thy heart, my power, and the might of my hand hath gotten me this wealth. Dan. 4. 30. The King spake, and said, Is not this great Babylon that I have built for the house of the Kingdom, by the might of my power, and for the honour of my Majesty., or any other creature Hab. 1. 16. Therefore they sacrifice unto their net, and burn incense unto their drag; because by them their portion is fat, and their meat plenteous..

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Q. What are we especially taught by these words [before me] in the first Commandment?

A. These words before me, or before my face, in the first Commandment, teach us, that God who seeth all things, takes special notice of, and is much displeased with the sin of having any other God; that so it may be an argument to disswade from it, and to aggravate it, as a most impudent provocation Ezek. 8. 5. to the end. Then said he unto me, Son of man, lift up thine eyes now the way towards the North; so I lift up mine eyes, and behold at the gate of the Altar, this image of Jealousie in the entry. And he said—so on. Psal. 44. 20, 21. But if we have forgotten the name of our God, or stretched out our hands to a strange God; shall not God search this out? for he knoweth the secrets of the heart.; as also to perswade us to do, as in his sight, what ever we do in his fervice 1 Chron. 28. 9. And thou Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father and serve him with a perfect heart, and with a willing mind; for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts; if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever..

Q. Which is the second Commandment?

A. The second Commandment is [Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; thou shalt not bow down to them nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and shewing mercy unto thousands, of them that love me, and keep my Commandments Exod. 20. 4 5, 6..]

Q. What are the duties required in the second Commandment?

A. The duties required in the second Commandment, are the receiving, observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious worship and Ordinances as God hath instituted in his word Deut. 32. 46, 47. And he said unto them, Set your hearts unto all the Words which I testifie among you this day which ye shall command your children to observe to do all the words of this law. V. 47.] For it is not a vain thing for you; because it is your life, and through this thing ye shall prolong your dayes in the land whither ye go over Jordan to possess it. Mat. 28. 20. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and [...]o I am with you alway unto the end of the world. Act. 2. 42. And they continued stedfastly in the Apostles doctrine, and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayer. 1 Tim. 6. 13. 14. I give thee charge in the fight of God, who quickeneth all things; and before Christ Jesus, who before Pontius Pilate witnessed a good confession, V. 14.] That thou keep this Commandment without spot, unrebukeable, untill the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ., particularly, Prayer and Thanksgiving [Page 217] in the name of Christ Phil. 4. 6. Be careful for nothing, but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests he made known to God. Eph. 5. 20. Giving thanks always, for all things, unto God, and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ., the reading preaching, and hearing of the word Deut. 17. 18, 19. And it shall be when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this law in a book, out of that which is before the Priests and Levites. V. 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. Act. 15. 21. For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the Synagogues every Sabbath day. 2 Tim. 4. 2. Preach the word, be instant, in season; out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and Doctrine. Jam. 1. 21, 22. Wherefore lay apart all filthiness, and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the [...]graffed word, which is able to save your souls. V. 22.] But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. Act. 10. 33, Immediately therefore I sent unto thee, and thou hast well done, that thou art come. Now therefore are we all here present before God, to hear all things that are commanded thee of God.; the administration and receiving of the Sacraments Mat. 28. 19.—Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. 1 Cor. 11. 23. to the 30. verse, For I have received of the Lord, that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus the same might wherein he was betrayed, took bread,—And so on., Church-government and Discipline Mat. 18. 15, 16, 17. Moreover if thy brother trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone; if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. V. 16.] But if he will not hear, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. V. 17. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it to the Church, but if he will not hear the Church, let him be, &c. Mat. 16. 19. And I will give unto thee the keyes of the kingdom of heaven, and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth, shall be loosed in heaven. 1 Cor. 5. the whole chapter. 1 Cor. 12. 28. And God hath set some in the Church; first Apostles; secondarily, Prophets; thirdly, Teachers, after that Miracles,; then Gifts of healings, Helps, Governments, diversities of tongues., the Ministery and maintenance thereof Eph. 4. 11, 12. And he gave some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some Evangelists, and some Pastors, and Teachers, V. 12.] For the perfecting of the Saints, for the work of the Ministery, for the edifying of the body of Christ. 1 Tim. 5. 17, 18. Let the elders that rule well, be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. V. 18.] For the Scripture saith, thou shalt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn, and the labourer is worthy of his reward. 1 Cor. 9. 7. to v. 15. Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charge? who planteth a vineyatd, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock? —And so on to v. 15., religious fasting Joel 2. 12, 13. Therefore also now, saith the Lord, Turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and weeping and mourning. V. 13.] And rend your hearts, and not your garments, and turn unto the Lord your God, for he is gracious, and merciful &c.—1 Cor. 7. 5. Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give your selves to fasting and prayer, and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency., swearing by the name of God Deut. 6. 13. Thou shalt fear the Lord thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his Name., and vowing unto him Isai. 19. 21. And the Lord shall be known to Egypt, and the Egyptians shall know the Lord in that day, and shall do sacrifice and oblation, yea they shall vow a vow unto the Lord, and perform it. Psal. 76. 11. Vow and pay unto the Lord your God; let all that are round about him, bring presents unto him that ought to be feated.: As also the disapproving, detesting, opposing all false worship Act. 17. 16, 17. Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him when he saw all the city given to idolatry. V. 17.] Therefore disputed he in the Synagogue with the Jewes, and with the devour persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him. Psal. 16. 4. Their sorrowes shall be multiplied that hasten after another God; their drink-offerings of blood will not I offer, nor take up their names into my lips.; and, according to each ones [Page 218] place and calling, removing it, and all monuments of Idolatry Deut. 7. 5. But thus [...]hall ye deal with them, ye shall destroy their Altars, and break down their images, and cut down their groves, and burn their graven images with fire. Isai. 30. 22. Ye shall defile also the covering of thy graven images of silver, and the ornament of thy molten images of gold; thou shalt cast them away as a menstruous cloth, thou shalt say unto it, Get thee hence?.

Q. What are the sins forbidden in the second Commandment?

A. The sins forbidden in the second Commandment, are, all devising Num. 15. 39. And it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye may look upon it, and remember all the Commandments of the Lord, & do them, and that ye seek not after your own heart, and your own eyes, after which ye use to go a whoring., counselling Deut. 13. 6, 7, 8. If thy brother the son of thy mother, or thy son, or thy daughter, or the wife of thy bosome, or thy friend which is as thine own soul, entice thee secretly, saying, Let us go and serve other gods, which thou hast not known, thou, nor thy fathers, V. 7.] Namely of the gods of the people which are round about thee, or far off from thee, from the one end of the earth to the other. V. 8.] Thou shalt not consent unto him, nor hearken unto him, nor shall thine eye pity him, nor shalt thou spare, nor shalt thou conceal him., commanding Hos. 5. 11. Ephraim is oppressed and broken in judgement, because he willingly walked after the Commandment. Mich. 6. 16. For the Statutes of Omri are kept, and all the works of the house of Ahab; and ye walk in their counsels, that I should make thee a desolation, and the inhabitants thereof an hissing; therefore ye shall bear the reproach of my people., using 1 King. 11. 33. Because that they have forsaken me, and worshipped Ashtaroth the goodess of the Sidonians, Chemosh the God of the Moabites, and Milcom the God of the children of Ammon, and have not walked in my wayes, to do that which is right in mine eyes, and to keep my statutes and my judgements, as did David his father., and any wayes approving any religious worship not instituted by God himself Deut. 12. 30, 31, 32. Take heed to thy self that thou be not snared by following them, after they be destroyed from before thee; and that thou enquire not after their Gods, saying, how did these nations serve their gods? even so will I do likewise. V. 31.] Thou shalt not do so unto the Lord thy God, for every abomination to the Lord which he hateth have they done unto their gods; for even their sons and their daughters have they burnt in the fire to their gods. V. 32.] Whatsoever I command you, observe to do; thou shalt not adde thereto, nor diminish from it., tolerating a false Religion Deut. 13. from ver. 6. to ver. 12. If thy brother the son of thy mother, or, &c. —vide [ ^b] Zech. 13. 2, 3. And it shall come to pass in that day, saith the Lord of hosts, that I will cut off the names of the idols out of the land, and they shall no more be remembred: and also I will cause the Prophets, and the unclean spirit to pass out of the land. V. 3.] And it shall come to pass that when any shall yet prophesie, then his father and mother that begat him shall say to him, Thou shalt not live; for thou speakest lies in the name of the Lord; and his father and mother that begat him, shall thrust him through when he prophesieth. Rev. 2. 2.-14, 15-20. I know thy works and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not hear them which are evil, and thou hast tried them who say they are Apostles and are not, and hast found them liars—V. 14.] But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balak to cast a stumbling-block before the children of Israel, and to eat things sacrificed to Idols, and to commit fornication. V. 5.] So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate.—V. 20.] Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee (the Church of Thyatira) because thou sufferest that woman Jezabel, who calleth her self a Prophetess, to teach, and to seduce my servants, to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed to Idols. Rev. 17. 12-16, 17. And the ten horns which thou sawest, are ten Kings, which have received no Kingdom as yet, but receive power as Kings one hour with the beast.—V. 16.] And the ten horns which thou sawest upon the beast, these shall hate the whore, and make her desolate, and naked, and eat her flesh, and burn her with fire. V. 17.] For God hath put in their hearts to fulfill his will, and to agree, and give their Kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled., the making any representation of God, of all, or of any of the three Persons, either inwardly in our mind, or outwardly, in any kind of Image or likeness of any creature whatsoever Deut. 4. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19. Take ye therefore good heed unto your selves (for ye saw no manner of similitude on the day that the Lord spake unto you in Horeb, out of the midst of the fire.) V. 16.] Lest you corrupt your selves, and make you a graven Image, &c.—V. 19.] And lest thou lift up thine eyes unto heaven, and when thou seest the Sun, Moon, and Starres, even all the host of heaven, shouldest be driven to worship them, and serve them, which the Lord God hath divided unto all nations under the whole heaven. Act. 17. 29. Forasmuch then as we are the off-spring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like to gold or silver, or stone graven by art and mans device. Rom. 1. 21, 22, 23-25. Because that when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, nor were they thankful, but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkned. V. 22.] Professing themselves wise, they became fools. V. 23.] And changed the glory of the incorruptible God, into an Image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and beasts and creeping things.—V. 25.] Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more then the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen., all worshipping of it Dan. 3. 18. But if not, be it known unto thee O King, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship thy golden Image which thou hast set up. Gal. 4. 8. Howbeit then when ye knew not God, ye did service unto them which by nature are no Gods., or God in it, or by it Exod. 32. 5-8. And when Aaron saw it he built an Altar before it, and made proclamation, and said, To morrow is a feast to the Lord.—V. 8.] They have turned aside quickly out of the way which I commanded them; they have made them a molten calf, and have worshipped it, and have sacrificed thereunto, and said, These be thy Gods, O Israel, which have brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.; the making of any representation of feigned Deities ^k, and all worship of them, or service belonging to them 1 King. 18. 26-28. And they took the bullock, and dressed it, and called upon the name of Baal, from morning to noon, saying, O Baal, hear us; but there was no voice, nor any that answered; and they leapt upon the Altar which was made.—V. 28.] And they cried loud, and cut themselves with knives, &c. —Isai. 65. 11. But ye are they that forsake the Lord, that forget my holy mountain, that prepare a table for the troop, that furnish the drink-offering unto the number., all superstitious devices Act. 17. 22. Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars-hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. Col. 2. 21, 22, 23. (Touch not, taste not, handle not. V. 22.] Which all are to perish with the using) after the commandments, and doctrines of men. V. 23.] Which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in Will-worship, and humility, and neglecting of the body, not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh., corrupting the worship of God Mal. 1. 7, 8-14. Ye offer polluted bread upon mine Altar, and ye say, Where have we polluted thee? In that ye say, The table of the Lord is contemptible. V. 8.] And if ye offer the blind for a sacrifice, is it not evil? and if the lame and sick, is it not evil? Offer it now to thy Governor, will he be pleased with thee, or accept thy person, saith the Lord of hosts—V. 14.] But cursed be the deceiver, who hath in his flock a male, and voweth and sacrificeth unto the Lord a corrupt thing; for I am a great King, saith the Lord of hosts, and my name is dreadful among the heathen., adding to it, taking from it Deut. 4. 2. Ye shall not adde unto the word which I command you, nor shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you., whether invented and taken up of our selves Psal. 106. 39. Thus were they defiled with their own works, and went a whoring with their own inventions., or received by tradition from others Mat. 15. 9. But in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrine the commandments of men., though under the title of Antiquity 1 Pet. 1. 18. Forasmuch as ye know ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers., Custome Jer. 44. 17. But we will certainly do whatsoever thing goeth forth out of our own mouth, to burn incense to the Queen of heaven, and to pour out drink-offerings unto her, as we have done, we and our fathers, our Kings, and our Princes in the Cities of Judah, and in the streets of Jerusalem, for then we had plenty of victuals, and were well, and saw no evil., Devotion Isa. 65. 3. 4, 5. A people that provoketh me to anger continually to my face, that sacrificeth in gardens, and burns incense upon Altars of brick. V. 4.] Which remain among the graves, and lodge in the monuments, which cat swines flesh, and broth of abominable things is in their vessels. V. 5.] Which say, Stand by thy self, come not neer me, for I am holier then thou; these are a smoke in my nose, a fire that burns all the day. Gal. 1. 13, 14. For ye have heard of my conversation in times past in the Jewes religion, how that beyond measure I persecuted the Church of God, and wasted it. V. 14.] And profited in the Jewes religion, above many mine equals in mine own nation, being exceedingly zealous of the traditions of my fathers., good Intent, or any other pretence whatsoever 1 Sam. 15. 21. But the people (said Saul) took of the spoil, sheep, and oxen, the chief of those things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the Lord thy God in Gilgal., fimony Act. 8. 18. And when Simon saw, that through the laying on of the Apostles hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money., sacriledge Rom. 2. 22.—Thou that abhorrest Idols, dost thou commit sacriledge? Mal. 3. 8. Will a man rob God? yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? in tithes, and offerings., all neglect Exod. 4. 24, 25. And it came to pass by the way in the Inne, that the Lord met him, and sought to kill him. V. 25.] Then Zipporah took a sharp stone, and cut off the foreskin of her son, and cast it at his feet, &c.—, contempt Mat. 22. 5. But they made light of it, and went their way, one to his farm, another to his merchandize. Mal. 1. 7-13. Ye offer polluted bread upon mine Altar; and ye say, Wherein have we polluted thee? In that ye say, The table of the Lord is contemptible—V. 13.] Ye said also, Behold, what a weariness is it, and ye have snuffed at it, saith the Lord of hosts, and ye brought that which was torn, and the lame, and sick: should I accept this of your hand? saith the Lord., hindering Mat. 23. 13. But wo unto you Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites; for ye shut up the kingdome of heaven against men, for ye neither go in your selves, nor suffer them that are entring to go in., and opposing the worship and Ordinances which God hath appointed Act. 13. 44, 45. And the next Sabbath day, came almost the whole City together to hear the word of God. V. 45.] But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things which weee spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming. 1 Thes. 2. 15, 16. Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own Prophets, and have persecuted us, and they please not God, and are contrary to all men. V. 16.] Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles, that they might be saved, to fill up their sins alwayes, for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost..

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Q What are the Reasons annexed to the second Commandment the more to enforce it?

A. The Reasons annexed to the second Commandment, [Page 221] the more to enforce it, contained in these words [For I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquities of the fathers upon the children, unto the third and fourth generation, of them that hate me; and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my Commandments Exod. 20. 5, 6.:] are, besides Gods soveraignty over us, and property in us Psal. 45. 11. So shall the King greatly desire thy beauty, for he is thy Lord, and worship thou him. Rev. 15. 3, 4. And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty, just and true are thy wayes, thou King of Saints. V. 4.] Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorifie thy name? for thou only art holy, for all nations shall come, and worship before thee, for thy judgements are made manifest., his fervent zeal for his own worship Exod. 34. 13, 14. But ye shall destroy their Altars, break their images, and cut down their groves. V. 14.] For thou shalt worship no other God: for the Lord whose name is jealous, is a jealous God., and his revengeful indignation against all false worship, as being a spiritual whoredom 1 Cor. 10. 20, 21, 22. But I say that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice to Devils, and not to God; and I would not ye should have fellowship with Devils. V. 21.] Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of Devils; ye cannot be partakers of the Lords table, and the table of Devils. V. 22.] Do we provoke the Lord to jealousie? are we stronger then he? Jer. 7. 18, 19, 20. The children gather wood, and the fathers kindle the fire, and the women knead their dough to make cakes to the Queen of heaven, and to pour out drink-offerings to other gods, that they may provoke me to anger. V. 19.] Do they provoke me to anger saith the Lord? do they not provoke themselves to the confusion of their own faces? V. 20.] Therefore thus saith the Lord God, Behold mine anger and fury shall be poured out upon this place, upon man, and beast, and the trees of the field, and the fruit of the ground, and it shall burn, and none shall quench it. Ezek. 16. 26, 27. Thou hast also committed fornication with the Egyptians thy neighbors great of flesh, and hast encreased thy whoredomes to provoke me to anger. V. 27.] Behold therefore I have stretched out my hand over thee, &c. Deut. 32. 16, 17, 18, 19, 20. They provoked him to jealousie with strange Gods, with abominations provoked him to anger. V. 17.] They sacrificed to Devils, not to God, to gods whom they know not, to new gods, &c. V. 18.] Of the rock that begat thee thou art unmindful, and hast forgotten God that formed thee. V. 19.] And when the Lord saw it, he abhorred them, because of the provoking of his sons, and daughter [...]. V. 20.] And he said, I will hide my face from them; I will see what their end shall be, for they are a very froward generation, children in whom there is no saith., accounting the breakers of this Commandment such as hate him, and threatning to punish them unto divers generations Hos. 2▪ 2, 3, 4. Plead with your mother, plead for she is not my wife, neither am I her husband; let her therefore put away her whoredomes out of her sight, and her adulteries from between her breasts. V. 3.] Lest I strip her naked, and set her as in the day that she was born, and make her as a wilderness, and set her like a dry land, and slay her with thirst. V. 4.] And I will not have mercy upon her children, for they are the children of whoredomes., and esteeming the observers of it, such as love him, and keep his Commandments, and promising mercy to them unto many generations Deut. 5. 29. O that there were such a heart in them, that they would fear me, and keep my Commandements alwayes, that it might be well with them and with their children for ever..

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Q. Which is the third Commandment?

A. The third Commandment is, Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain: for the Lord will not hold him guiltless, that taketh his name in vain Exod. 20. 7..

Q. What is required in the third Commandment?

A. The third Commandment requires, that the Name of God, his titles, attributes Mat. 6. 9. After this manner therefore pray ye, Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Deut. 28. 58. If thou wilt not observe to do all the words of this law, written in this book, that thou maist fear this glorious and fearful name, THE LORD THY GOD. Psal. 29. 2. Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his Name, &c. Psal. 68. 4. Sing unto God, sing praises unto his Name, extoll him that rideth upon the heavens by his Name JAH, and rejoyce before him. Rev. 15. 3, 4. See above in [ ^d], ordinances Mal. 1. 14. Cursed be the deceiver that hath in his flock a male, and offereth unto the Lord a corrupt thing; for I am a great King saith the Lord of hosts, and my name is dreadful among the heathen. Eccl. 5. 1. Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, then to give the sacrifice of fools; for they consider not that they do evil., the word Psal. 138. 2. I will worship towards thy holy Temple, and praise thy name for thy loving kindness, and for thy truth; for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy Name., Sacraments 1 Cor. 11. 24. 25.-28, 29. And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat, this is my body which is broken for you, this do in remembrance of me. V. 25.] After the same manner also he took the cup, &c.—V. 28.] But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of this bread and drink of this cup. V. 29.] For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lords body., prayer 1 Tim. 2. 8. I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands without wrath, and doubting., oaths Jer. 4. 2. And thou shalt swear, the Lord liveth, in truth, in judgement, and in righteousness, and the nations shall bless themselves, in him shall they glory., vowes Eccl. 5. 2-4, 5, 6. Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thy heart be hasty to utter any thing before God; for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth, therefore let thy words be few.—V. 4.] When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it, for he hath no pleasure in fools; pay that which thou hast vowed. V. 5.] Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, then that thou shouldest vow and not pay. V. 6.] Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say thou before the Angel, that it was an errour. Wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hand?, lots Act. 1. 24, 26. And they prayed, and said, Thou Lord who knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen—V. 26.] And they gave forth their lots, and the lot fell upon Matthias, and he was numbred with the eleven Apostles., his works Job 36. 24. Remember that thou magnifie his work, which men behold., and whatsoever else there is whereby he makes himself known, be holily and reverently used in thought Mal. 3. 16. Then they that feared the Lord, spake often one to another: and the Lord hearkened, and heard it; and a book of remembrance was written before him, for them that feared the Lord, and thought upon his Name., meditation Psal. 8. throughout▪ O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is thy Name throughout the earth!—to the end., word Col. 3. 17. Whatsoever ye do in word or in deed, do all in the Name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God, and the Father by him. Psal. 105. 2-5. Sing unto him, sing Psalms unto him: talk ye of all his wondrous works.—V. 5.] Remember his marvellous works that he hath done, his wonders, and the judgements of his mouth., writing [Page 223] Psal. 102. 18. This shall be written for the generation to come; and the people which shall be created shall praise the Lord., by an holy profession 1 Pet. 3. 15. But sanctifie the Lord God in your hearts; and be ready alwayes to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear. Mic. 4. 5. For all people will walk every one in the name of his God: and we will walk in the name of our God for ever and ever., and answerable conversation Phil. 1. 27. Only let your conversation be such as becomes the Gospel of Christ, &c., to the glory of God 1 Cor. 10. 35. Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatever ye do, do all to the glory of God., and the good of our selves Jer. 32. 39. And I will give them one heart, and one way, that they may fear me for ever, for the good of them, and of their children after them. and others 1 Pet. 2. 12. Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles, that whereas they speak against you as evil doers, they may by your good works which they shall behold, glorifie God in the day of visitation..

Q. What are the sins forbidden in the third Commandment?

A. The sins forbidden in the third Commandment, are, the not using of Gods name as is required Mal. 2. 2. If you wil not not hear, and if you will not lay it to heart to give glory to my Name, saith the Lord of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you, and will curse your blessings, yea I have cursed them already, because you do not lay it to heart., and the abuse of it, in an ignorant Act. 17. 23. For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an Altar with this inscription, To the unknown God; whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you., vain Pro. 30. 9. Least I be full, and deny thee, and say, Who is the Lord? or least I be poor, and steal, and take the Name of my God in vain., irreverent, profane Mal. 1. 6. 7-12. A son honoureth his father, and a servant his master. If then I be a father, where is mine honour? and if I be a Master, were is my fear, saith the Lord of hosts unto you, O Priests, that despise my Name? and ye say, Wherein have we despised thy Name? V. 7.] Ye offer polluted bread upon mine Altar; and ye say, Wherein have we polluted thee? in that ye say, The table of the Lord is contemptible.—Mal. 3. 14. Ye have said, It is vain to serve God; and what profit is it that we have kept his ordinance and that we have walked mournfully before the Lord of hosts?, superstitious 1 Sam. 4. 3, 4, 5. And when the people were come into the camp, the Elders of Israel said, Wherefore hath the Lord smitten us to day before the Philistines? Let us fetch the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord out of Shiloh unto us, that when it cometh among us, it may save us out of the hand of our enemy. V. 4.] So the people sent to Shiloh, to bring from thence the Ark of the covenant of the Lord of hosts, who dwelleth between the Cherubims; and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinias were there with the Ark of the Covenant of God. V. 5.] And when it came into the Camp, all Israel shouted with a great shout, so that the earth rang again. Jer. 7. 4▪ 9, 10▪ 14. 31. Trust ye not in lying words, saying, the Temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lord, are these—V. 9.] Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsly, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other Gods whom ye know not. V. 10.] and come and stand before me in this house which is called by my Name, & say, we are delivered to do all these abominations;—V. 14.] Therefore will I do unto this house, which is called by my name wherein ye trust, & unto the place which I gave unto you, and to your fathers, as I have done to Shiloh—V. 31.] And they have built the high places of Tophet, which is in the valley of the son of Hinnon to burn their sons & daughters in the fire, which I commanded them not, neither came it into my heart. Col. 2. 20, 21, 22. 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? V. 21.] (Touch not, Taste not, Handle not, V. 22.] Which all are to perish with the using) after the Commandments and doctrines of men., or wicked mentioning or otherwise using his titles, atttibutes 2 King. 18. 30.-35. Neither let Hezekiah, make you trust in the Lord, saying, The Lord will surely deliver us, and this city shall not be delivered into the hand of the King of Assyria—V. 35.] Who are they, among all the gods of the Countries that have delivered their Country out of my hand, that the Lord should deliver Jerusalem out of my hand? Exod. 5. 2. And Pharoah said, Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice, to let Israel go; I know not the Lord, neither will I let Israel go. Ps. 139. 20. For they speak against thee wickedly, and thine enemies take thy Name in vain., ordinances Psal. 50. 16, 17. But unto the wicked he saith, What hast thou to do to declare my statutes, or to take my Covenant into thy mouth? V. 17.] Seeing thou hatest instruction, and castest my words behinde thee., or works Isai. 5. 12. And the harp. and the viol, the Timbrel, and Pipe, and wine are in their feasts; but they regard not the work of the Lord, nor the operation of his hands.; by blasphemy 2 King. 19. 22. Whom hast thou reproached, and blasphemed, and against whom hast thou exalted thy power, and lift up thine eyes on high, even against the Holy one of Israel. Lev. 24. 11. And the Israelitish womans son blasphemed the name of the Lord, and cursed, and they brought him unto Moses—, perjury Zech. 5. 4. I will bring it forth, saith the Lord of hosts, and it shall enter into the house of the thief, and into the house of him that sweareth falsely by my name, and it shall remain in the midst of his house, and shall consume it, with the timber thereof, and the stones thereof. Zech. 8. 17. And let none of you imagine evil in your hearts against your neighbour, and love no false oath; for all these are things that I hate saith the Lord.; all sinful cursings 1 Sam. 17. 43.—And the Philistine cursed David by his gods. 2 Sam. 16. 5.—And Shimei the Son of Gera came forth and cursed still as he came., oaths Jer. 5. 7. How shall I pardon thee for this? thy children have forsaken me, and sworn by them that are no gods, when I had fed them to the full, they then committed adultery, and assembled themselves by troops in the harlots houses. Jer. 23. 10. For the land is full of adulterers, for because of swearing, the land mourneth.—, vowes Deut. 23. 18. Thou shalt not bring the hire of a whore, or the price of a dog into the house of the Lord thy God, for any Vow: for even both these are an abomination to the Lord thy God. Act. 23. 12. And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together and bound themselves under a curse, saying that they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul., and lots Esth. 3. 7. In the fifth moneth (that is the moneth Nisan) in the twelfth year of King Ahasuerus they cast Pur, that is the lot, before Haman, from day to day, and from moneth to moneth, to the twelfth moneth, that is the moneth Adar. Esth. 9. 24. Because Haman had devised against the Jewes to destroy them, and had cast Pur, that is the lot, to consume and destroy them. Psal. 22. 18. They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture., violating of our oaths, and vowes, if lawful Psal. 24. 4. He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lift up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. Eze. 17. 16.-18, 19. As I live saith the Lord God, surely in the place where the King dwelleth, tha [...] made him King, whose oath he despised, and whose Covenant he breaketh, even with him in the midst of Babylon he shall die—V. 18, 19.] Seeing he despiseth the oath, by breaking the Covenant, (when loe he had given his hand) and hath done all these things, he shall not escape. V. 19.] Therefore thus saith the Lord God, As I live, surely mine Oath that he hath despised, and my Covenant that he hath broken, even it will I recompence upon his own head., and fulfilling them, if of things unlawful Mark. 6. 26. And the King was exceeding sorry yet for his oaths sake, and for their sakes who sate w [...]th him, he would not reject her. 1 Sam. 25. 22-32, 33, 34. So, and more also do God unto the enemies of David, if I leave of all that pertain to him, by the morning light, any that pisseth against the wall—V. 32.] And David said to Abigail, blessed be the Lord God of Israel, who sent thee this day to me; V. 33.] And blessed be thy advice, and blessed be thou who hast kept me this day from coming to shed blood, and from avenging my self with mine own hands. V. 34.] For in very deed, as the Lord God of Israel liveth, which hath kept me back from hurting thee, except thou hadst hasted, and come to meet me, surely there had not been left unto Nabal by the morning light, any that pisseth against the wall., murmuring and quarrelling at Rom. 9. 14.-19, 20. What shall we say then? Is there unrighteousness with God? God forbid—V. 19. Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will? V. 20.] Nay, but O man, who art thou that replyest against God? shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?, curious prying into Deut. 29. 29. The secret things belong unto the Lord our God; but those things which are revealed belong unto us, and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law., and misapplying of Gods decrees Rom. 3. 5-7 But if our unrighteousness commend the righteousness of God, what shall we say? Is God unrighteous who taketh vengeance? I speak as a man—V. 7.] For if the truth of God hath more abounded through my lye, unto his glory, why yet am I also judged as a sinner? Rom. 6. 1. What shall we say then? shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid., and providences Eccl. 8. 11. Because sentence against an evil work, is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men, is fully set in them to do evil. Eccl. 9. 3. This is an evil among all things that are done under the sun, that there is one event unto all; yea also the heart of the sons of men is full of evil, and madness is in their heart, while they live; and after that they go to the dead. Psal. 39. I said I will take heed to my wayes, that I sin not with my tongue —throughout., misinterpreting Mat. 5. from. V. 21. To the end. Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time—, misapplying Ezek. 13. 22. Because with lies ye have made the heart of the righteous sad, whom I have not made sad; and strengthned the hands of the wicked that he should not return from his wicked way, by promising him life., or any way perverting the word, or any part of it 2 Pet. 3. 16. As also in all his Epistles, speaking in them of those things, in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlea [...]ned wrest, as they do also the other Scriptures, to their own destruction. Mat. 22. 24. to the 31. Vers. Saying, Master, Moses said, If a man die having no children, his brother shall marry his wife, and raise up seed to his brother; for there were with us seven brethren and the first &c.—V. 29.] Jesus answered and said unto them, ye erre, not knowing the Scriptures nor the power of God; For in the Resurrection—, to profane jests Isai. 22. 13. And behold joy and gladness, slaying of oxen and killing of sheep, eating flesh and drinking wine; let us eat and drink, for to morrow we shall die. Jer. 23. 34.-36-38. As for the Prophet, and the Priests, and the people that shall say, The burthen of the Lord, I will even punish that man and his house—V. 36.] And the burden of the Lord shall ye mention no more; for every mans word shall be his burden for ye have perverted the words of the living God—V. 38.] But sith ye say, The burden of the Lord, and I have sent unto you saying ye shall not say, The burden of the Lord, therefore I will utterly forget and forsake you, &c.—, curious or unprofitable questions, vain janglings, or the maintaining of false Doctrines 1 Tim. 1. 4-6, 7. Neither give heed to fables, and endles genealogies, which minister Questions, rather then good edifying, which is in faith; so do—V. 6.] From which (faith) some having swerved, have turned aside unto vain jangling. V. 7.] Desiring to be teachers of the Law, understanding neither what they say, nor whereof they affirm. 1 Tim. 6, 4, 5.-20. He is proud knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings. V. 5.] Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness, from such withdraw thy self—V. 20. O Timothy, keep that which is committed to thy trust, avoiding profane, and vain bablings, and oppositions of science, falsly so called. 2 Tim. 2. 14. Of these things put them in remembrance; charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers. Tit. 3. 9. Avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the Law; for th [...]y are unprofitable, and vain., abusing it, the creatures, or any thing contained under the name of God, to charms Deut. 18. 10, 11, 12, 13, 14. There shall not be found among you any one that maketh his son, or daughter passe through the fire, or that useth Divination, or an observer of times, or an Inchanter, or a Witch. V. 11.] Or a Charmer, or a Consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a Necromancer. V. 12.] For all these things are an abomination to the Lord: and because of these abominations, the Lord thy God doth drive them out from before thee. V. 13.] Thou shalt be perfect before the Lord thy God, V. 14.] For these nations which thou shalt possesse, bearkned unto observer of times, and unto diviners; but as for thee, the Lord thy God hath not suffered thee to do so. Act. 19. 13. Then certain of the vagabond Jews, exorcists, took upon them to call over them who had evil spirits the Name of the Lord Jesus, saying, We adjure you by Jesus, whom Paul Preached., or sinful lusts and practises 2 Tim. 4. 3, 4. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine, but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves Teachers, having itching ears: V. 4.] And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. Rom. 13. 13, 14. Let us walk honestly as in the day, not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. V. 14.] But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh to fulfil the lust thereof. 1 King. 21. 9▪ 10. And she wrote in the letters, saying, Proclaim a Fast, and set Naboth on high among the people. V. 10.] And set two men, sons of Belial, to bear witness against him, saying, Thou didst blaspheme God and the King; and then carry him out and stone him that he may die. Jude v. 4▪ For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the onely Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ., the maligning Act. 13. 45. But when the Jewes saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things that were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming. 1 Joh. 3. 12. Not as Cain, who was of that wicked one that slew his brother: and wherefore slew he him? because his own works were evil, and his brothers righteous., scorning Psal. 1. 1. Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2 Pet. 3. 3. Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last dayes scoffers, walking after their own lusts., reviling 1 Pet. 4. 4. Wherein they think it strange that you run not with them to the same excesse of riot, speaking evil of you., or any wayes opposing of Gods truth, grace, and wayes Act. 13. 45, 46-50. But when the Jews saw the multitudes, they were filled with envy, and spake against those things that were spoken by Paul, contradicting and blaspheming. V. 46.] Then Paul and Barnabas waxed bold, and said, It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you: but seeing ye put it from you, and judge your selves unworthy of everlasting life, loe, we turn to the Gentiles:—V. 50.] But the Jews stirred up the devout and honourable women, and the chief men of the City, and raised persecution against Paul and Barnahas, and expelled them out of their coasts. Act. 4. 18. And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all, nor teach in the Name of Jesus. Act. 19. 9. But when divers were hardned and believed not, but spake evil of that way before the multitude, he departed from them and separated the Disciples. 1 Thes. 2. 16. Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles that they might be saved, to fill up their sins alway: for the wrath is come upon them to the uttermost. Heb. 10. 29. Of how much sorer punishment suppose ye shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the Covenant wherewith he was sanctified an unholy thing, and done despight unto the Spirit of Grace?, making profession of Religion in hypocrisie, or for sinister ends 2 Tim. 3. 5. Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof; from such turn away. Mat. 23. 14. Wo unto you Scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites, for ye shut up the Kingdom of heaven against men; ye neither go in your selves, nor suffer them that are entring to go in. Mat. 6. 1, 2,—5,—16. Take heed you do not your almes before men, to be seen of them; otherwise you have your reward of your Father which is in heaven. V. 2.] Therefore when thou dost thine almes, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do, in the synagogues, and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.—V. 5.] And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are, for they love to pray standing in the Synagogues, and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say, &c.—V. 16.] Moreover, when ye fast, be not as the Hypocrites, of a sad countenance; for they disfigure their faces, that they may appear to men to fast. Verily I say unto you, They have their r [...]ward.; being ashamed of it Mar. 8. 38. Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me, and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him also shall the son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his father with the holy Angels., or a shame to it, by uncomfortable Psal. 73. 14, 15. For all the day long have I been plagued, and chastened every morning. V. 15.] If I say, I will speak thus, behold I should offend against the generation of thy children., unwise 1 Cor. 6. 5, 6. I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man amongst you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren? V. 6.] But brother goes to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers. Eph. 5. 15, 16, 17. See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise. V. 16.] Redeeming the time, because the dayes are evil. V. 17.] Wherefore be ye not unwise but understanding what the will of the Lord is., unfruitful 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 i [...] for [...]h wild grapes? 2 Pet. 1. 8, 9. For if these things be in you, and abound, they mak [...] you that y [...] shall neither he barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. V. 9.] But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins., and offensive walkings Rom. 2. 23, 24. Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God? V. 24.] For the Name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written., or backsliding from it Gal. 3. 1,—3. O foolish Galatians, who hath betwitched that you should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you?—V. 3.] Are ye so foolish? having begun in the spirit, are ye now made perfect in the flesh? Heb. 6. 6. If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance: seeing they crucifie to themselves afresh the Son of God, and put him to open shame..

Q. What Reasons are annexed to the third Commandment?

A. The Reasons annexed to the third Commandment in these words [The Lord thy God] and [For the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his Name in vain Exod. 20. 7.,] are, because he is the Lord and our God, and therefore his Name is not to be profaned, or any way abused by us Lev. 19. 12. And ye shall not swear by my Name falsely, neither shalt thou profane the Name of thy God, I am the Lord., especially, because he is so far from acquitting and sparing the transgressors of this Commandment, as that he will not suffer them to escape his righteous judgement Ezek. 36. 21, 22, 23. But I had pity for mine holy Name, which the house of Israel had profaned among the heathen whither they went. V. 22.] Therefore say unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord God, I do not this for your sakes O house of Israel, but for mine holy Names sake, which ye have profaned among the heathen whither ye went. V. 23.] I will sanctifie my great Name which was profaned among the heathen, which ye have profaned in the midst of them; and the heathen shall know that I am the Lord, saith the Lord God when I shall be sanctified in you before their eyes. Deut. 28. 58, 59. If thou wilt not observe to do all the words of this Law that are written in this book, that thou maist fear this glorious and fearful Name, THE LORD THY GOD. V. 59.] Then the Lord will make thy plagues wonderful, and the plagues of thy seed, even great plagues, and of long continuance; and sore sicknesses, and of long continuance. Zech. 5. 2, 3, 4. And he said unto me, What seest thou? and I answered, I see a flying roll, the length thereof twenty cubits, and the breadth thereof thirty cubits. V. 3.] Then said he unto me, This is the curse that goeth forth over the face of the whole earth: for every one that stealeth shall be cut off, as on this side according to it; and every one that sweareth shall be cut off, as on that side, according to it. V. 4.] I will bring it forth, saith the Lord of hosts, and it shall enter into the house of the thief, and into the house of him that sweareth falsely by my Name., albeit many such escape the censures and [Page 228] punishments of men 1 Sam. 2. 12.-17.-22.-24. Now the sons of Eli were sons of Belial; they knew not the Lord.—V. 17.] Wherefore the sin of the young men was very great before the Lord; for men abhorred the offering of the Lord.—V. 22.] Now Eli was very old, and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel, and how they lay with the women that assembled at the door of the Tabernacle of the Congregation.—V. 24.] Nay, my sons, for it is no good report that I hear; ye make the Lords people to transgress. Compared with 1 Sam. 3. 13. For I have told him that I will judge his house for ever, for the iniquity which he knoweth; because his sons made themselves vile. and he restrained them not..

Q. Which is the fourth Commandment?

A. The fourth Commandment is, [Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy: six dayes shalt thou labour and do all thy worke: but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattel, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: for in six dayes the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day; wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it. Exod. 20. 8, 9, 10, 11.]

Q. What is required in the fourth Commandment?

A. The fourth Commandment requireth of all men, the sanctifying, or keeping holy to God, such set time as he hath appointed in his Word; expresly, one whole day in seven, which was the seventh from the beginning of the world to the resurrection of Christ, and the first day of the week ever since, and so to continue to the end of the world; which is the Christian Sabbath Deut. 5. 12, 13, 14. Keep the Sabbath day to sanctifie it, as the Lord thy God hath commanded thee. V. 13.] Six dayes shalt thou labour, and do all thy work. V. 14.] But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God; in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy man-servant, nor thy maid servant, nor thine ox, nor thine asse, nor any of thy cattel, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates, that thy man-servant and thy maid-servant may rest as well as thou. Gen. 2. 2, 3. And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made: and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he made. V. 3.] And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it; because that in it he rested from all his work which God created and made. 1 Cor. 16. 1, 2. Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the Churches of Galatia, so do ye. V. 2.] The first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. Act. 20. 7. And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preacht to them, ready to depart on the morrow, &c. Mat. 5. 17, 18. Think not that I come to destroy the Law, or the Prophets; I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. V. 18.] For verily, I say unto you, till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Isai. 56. 2.-4.—6, 7. Blessed is the man that doth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing evil.—V. 4.] For thus saith the Lord unto the Eunuchs that keep my Sabbaths, and chuse the things that please me, and take hold of my Covenant.—V. 6.] Also the sons of the stranger that joyn themselves to the Lord, to serve him, and to love the Name of the Lord, to be his servants, every one that keepeth the Sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my Covenant V. 7.] Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer; their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine Altar; for mine house shall be called, &c.—, and in the New Testament called the Lords day Rev. 1. 10. I was in the spirit on the Lords day, and heard behind me, &c..

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Q. How is the Sabbath, or Lords day to be sanctified?

A. The Sabbath, or Lords day is to be sanctified, by an holy resting all the day Exod. 20. 8.-10. Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy.—V. 10.] But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God: In it thou shall not do any work, thou, nor thy son, &c., not onely from such works as are at all times sinful, but even from such worldly imployments and recreations as are on other dayes lawful Exod. 16. 25, 26, 27, 28. And Moses said, Eat that to day, for to day is a Sabbath unto the Lord; to day ye shall not finde it in the field. V. 26.] Six dayes shall ye gather it, but on the seventh day, which is the Sabbath, in it there shall be none. V. 27.] And it came to passe that there went out some of the people on the seventh day to gather, and they found none. V. 28.] And the Lord said unto Moses, How long refuse ye to keep my Commandments, and my Laws? Neh. 13. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19.-21, 22. In those dayes saw I in Judah some treading Wine-presses on the Sabbath day, and bringing in sheaves, and lading [...]sses as also wine, grapes, and figs, and all manner of burdens, which they brought into Jerusalem on the Sabbath day; and I testified against them in the day wherein they sold victuals. V. 16.] There dwelt men of Tyre also therein, which brought fish, and all manner of wares, and sold on the Sabbath day unto the children of Judah, and in Jerusalem. V. 17.] Then contended I with the Nobles of Judah, and said unto them, What evil thing is this that ye do, and profane the Sabbath day? V. 18.] Did not your fathers thus? and did no: God bring all this evil upon us, and upon this City? yet ye bring more wrath upon Israel by profaning the Sabbath. V. 19.] And it came to passe that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the Sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut, and charged that they should not be opened till after the Sabbath; and some of my servants I set at the gates, that there should be no burden brought in on the Sabbath day. V. 20.] So the merchants and sellers of all sorts of ware were lodged without Jerusalem once or twice. V. 21.] Then testified I against them, saying, Why lodge ye about the wall? If ye do so again, I will lay hands on you. From that time forth came they no more on the Sabbath. V. 22.] And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse themselves, and come and keep the gates, to sanctifie the Sabbath. Remember me, O my God, concerning this also, &c. —Jer. 17. 21, 22. Thus saith the Lord, Take heed to your selves, and bear no burden on the Sobbath day, neither bring it in by the gates of Jerusalem▪ V. 22.] Neither carry forth a burden out of your house on the Sabbath, nor do ye any work, but hallow ye the Sabbath day, as I commanded your fathers., and making it our delight to spend the whole time (except so much of it as is to be taken up in works of necessity and mercy Mat. 12. from ver. 1. to ver. 13. At that time Jesus went on the Sabbath day through the corn, and his Disciples were an hungred, and began to plack the ears of corn and to eat. But when the Pharisees saw it, &c.—) in the publick and private exercises of Gods worship Isa. 58. 13. If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day, and call the Sabba [...]h a delight, the Holy of the Lord honourable, and shalt honour him, not doing thine own wayes, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words. —Luk. 4. 16. And he came to Nazareth where he had been brought up, and, as his custome was, he went into the Synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up for to read. Act. 20. 7. And upon the first day of the week, when the Disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached to them, ready to depart on the morrow.—1 Cor 16. 1, 2. Now concerning the collection for the Saints, as I have given order to the Churches of Galatia, even so do ye▪ V. 2.] Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. Psal. 92. Title. A Psalm, or song for the Sabbath day. Isa. 66. 23. And it shall come to passe that from one new Moon to another, and from one Sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the Lord. Lev. 23. 3. Six dayes shall work be done; but the seventh day is the Sabbath of rest, an holy convocation, ye shall do no work therein: it is the Sabbath of the Lord in all your dwellings.; and to that end we are to prepare our hearts, and with such fore-sight, diligence and moderation to dispose, and seasonably to dispatch our worldly business, that we may be the more free and fit for the duties of that day Exod. 20. 8. Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy. Luk. 23. 54.-56. And that day was the preparation, and the Sabbath drew on.—V. 56▪ And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments, and rested the Sabbath day, according to the Commandment. Exod. 16. 22.-25, 26.-29. And it came to passe on the sixth day they gathered twice as much bread, two Omers for one man; and all the Rulers of the Congregation came and told Moses.—V. 25.] And Moses said, Eat that to day; for to day is a Sabbath unto the Lord, to day ye shall not find it in the field. V. 26.] Six dayes shall ye gather it, but on the seventh day, which is the Sabbath, there shall be none.—V. 29.] See for that the Lord hath given you the Sabbath; therefore he giveth you on the sixth day the bread of two dayes: abide you every man in his place, let no man go out of his place on the seventh day. Neh. 13. 19. And it came to passe that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the Sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut, and charged that they should not be opened till after the Sabbath. And some of my servants set I at the gates, that there should be no burden brought in on the Sabbath day..

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Q. Why is the charge of keeping the Sabbath, more specially directed to governours of families, and other superiours?

A. The charge of keeping the Sabbath is more specially directed to governours of families and other superiours, because they are bound not only to keep it themselves, but to see that it be observed by all those that are under their charge; and because they are prone oft times to hinder them by imployments of their own Exod. 20. 10.—In it thou shalt do no manner of work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattel, nor the stranger that is within thy gates. Josh. 24. 15. —but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. Neh. 13. 15-17. In those dayes saw I in Judah some treading the wine-presses, &c.—See above in [ ^b] Jer. 17. 20, 21, 22. And say unto them, Hear the word of the Lord, ye Kings of Judah, and all Judah, and all the inhabitants of Jerusalem, that enter in by these gates. V. 21.] Thus saith the Lord, Take heed to your selves, and bear no burden on the Sabbath day—&c. See above in [ ^b] Exod. 23. 12. Six dayes shalt thou do thy work, and on the seventh day thou shalt rest; that thine oxe and thine asse may rest, and the son of thine hand-maid and the stranger may be refreshed..

Q. What are the sins forbidden in the fourth Commandment?

A. The sins forbidden in the fourth Commandment, are, all omissions of the duties required Ezek. 22. 26. Her Priests have violated my law, and profaned mine holy things: they have put no difference between the holy and profane, neither have they shewed difference between the unclean and clean; they have hid their eyes from my Sabbaths, and I am profaned among them., all careless negligent, [Page 231] and unprofitable performing of them, and being weary of them Act. 20. 7.-9. And upon the first day of the week, when the Disciples came together to break bread, Paul Preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow, and continued his speech until midnight.—V. 9.] And there sate in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep; and as Paul was long preaching he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead. Ezek. 33. 30, 31, 32. Also thou son of man, the children of thy people still are talking against thee by the walls, and in the doors of the houses, and speak one to another, every one to his brother, saying▪ Come, I pray you, and hear what is the word that cometh forth from the Lord. V. 31.] And they come unto thee, as the people cometh, and sit before thee as my people, and hear my words, but they will not do them; for with their mouth they shew much love, but their heart runneth after their covetousness. V. 32.] And lo, thou art unto them as a very lovely song of one that hath a pleasant voice, and can play well on an instrument; for they hear thy words, but they do them not. Amos 8. 5. Saying, When will the new Moon be gone, that we may sell corn, and the sabbath, that we may set forth wheat; making the Ephah small, and the shekel great, falsifying the balances by deceit. Mal. 1. 13. Ye said also, Behold, what a weariness is it! and ye snuffed at it, saith the Lord of hosts; and ye brought that which was torn, and the lame, and the sick; thus ye brought an offering: Should I accept this of your hand, saith the Lord?, all profaning the day by idleness, and doing that which is in it self finful Eze. 23. 38. Moreover, this they have done to me, They have defiled my sanctuary in the same day, and have profaned my Sabbaths., and by all needless works, words and thoughts about our worldly imployments and recreations Jer. 17. 24.-27. And it shall come to passe if ye diligently hearken unto me, saith the Lord, to bring in no burden through the gates of this city on the Sabbath day, but Hallow the Sabbath day, to do no work therein—V. 27.] But if ye will not hearken unto me to hallow the Sabbath, and not to bear a burden, even entring in at the gates of Jerusalem on the Sabbath day, then will I kindle a fire in the gates thereof, and it shall devour the palaces of Jerusalem, and shall not be quenched. Isai. 58. 13. If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy day, and call the Sabbath a delight, the Holy of the Lord, honourable, and shall honour him, not doing thine own wayes, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words..

Q. What are the Reasons annexed to the fourth Commandment the more to enforce it?

A. The Reasons annexed to the fourth Commandment, the more to enforce it, are taken from the equity of it, God allowing us six dayes of seven for our own affairs, and reserving but one for himself, in these words, [Six dayes shalt thou labour, and do all thy work Exod. 20. 9., from Gods challenging a special propriety in that day, [The seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God Exod. 20. 10.] from the example of God, who in six dayes made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day; and from that blessing which God put upon that day, not onely in sanctifying it to be a day for his service, but in ordaining it to be a meanes of [Page 232] blessing to us in our sanctifying it; [wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hollowed it Exod. 20. 11..]

Q. Why is the word Remember set in the beginning of the fourth Commandment?

A. The word Remember is set in the beginning of the fourth Commandment Exo. 20. 8., partly because of the great benefit of remembring it; we being thereby helped in our preparation to keep it Exo. 16. 23. And he said unto them, This is that which the Lord hath said, To morrow is the rest of the holy Sabbath unto the Lord: bake that which ye will bake, to day, and seeth that ye will seeth; and that which remaineth over, lay up for you, to be kept till morning. Luk. 23. 54.-56. And that day was the Preparation, and the sabbath drew on.—V. 56.] And they returned and prepared spices, and ointments, and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment. Compared with Mar. 15. 42. And now when the even was come, because it was the preparation, that is, the day before the sabbath. Neh. 13. 19. And it came to passe that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the Sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut, and charged that they should not be opened till after the Sabbath—, and in keeping it better to keep all the rest of the Commandments Psal. 92. Title. A Psalm or song for the sabbath day. Compared with vers. 13, 14. Those that be planted in the house of the Lord, shall flourish in the Courts of our God. V. 14.] They shall still bring forth fruit in old age: they shall be fat and flourishing. Ezek. 20. 12.-19, 20. Moreover also I gave them my sabbaths, to be a signe between me and them, that they might know that I am the Lord that sanctifie them.—V. 19.] I am the Lord your God: walk in my statutes, and keep my judgements and do them; V. 20.] And hallow my sabbaths, and they shall be a sign between me and you, that ye may know that I am the Lord your God., and to continue a thankful remembrance of the two great benefits of Creation, and Redemption, which contain a short abridgement of Religion Gen. 2. 2, 3. And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made, and he rested on the seventh day, from all his work which he had made. V. 3.] And God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it; because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made Psal. 118. 22.-24. The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner.—V. 24. This is the day which the Lord hath made, we will rejoyce and be glad in it. Compared with Act. 4▪ 10, 11. Be it known unto you all and unto all the people of Israel, that by the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. V. 11.] This is the stone which was set at nought by you builders, which is become the head of the corner. Rev. 1. 10. I was in the Spirit on the Lords day, and heard behind me a voice as of a Trumpet.: and partly because we are very ready to forget it Ezek. 22. 26. Her Priests have violated my Law, and profaned my holy things; they have put no difference between the holy and profane, the unclean and the clean, and have hid their eyes from my Sabbaths, and I am profaned among them.; for that there is less light of nature for it Neh. 9. 14. And madest known unto them the holy Sabbath, and commandedst them precepts, and statutes, and laws, by the hand of Moses thy servant., and yet it restraineth our natural liberty in things at other times lawful Exod. 34. 21. Six dayes shalt thou work, but on the seventh day thou shalt rest; in earing time, and in harvest thou shalt rest.; that it cometh but once in seven dayes, and many worldly businesses come between, and too often take off our minds from thinking of it, either to prepare [Page 233] for it, or to sanctifie it Deut. 5. 14, 15. But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord, &c.—V. 15.] And remember that thou wast a servant in the land of Egypt, and that the Lord thy God brought thee out thence through a mighty hand, and by a stretched out arm: therefore the Lord thy God commanded thee to keep the Sabbath day. Amos 8. 5. Saying, When will the new moon be gone, that we may sell corn, and the Sabbath, that we may set forth wheat, making the Ephah small, and the shekel great, and falsifying the balances by deceit?; and that Satan with his instruments much labour to blot out the glory, and even the memory of it, to bring in all irreligion and impiety Lam. 1. 7. Jerusalem remembred in the dayes of her affliction, and of her miseries all her pleasant things that she had in the dayes of old, when her people fell into the hand of the enemy, and none did help her; the adversaries saw her, and did mock at her sabbaths. Jer. 17. 21. 22, 23. Thus saith the Lord, Take heed to your selves, and bear no burden on the Sabbath day, nor bring it in by the gates of Jerusalem. V. 22.] Neither carry forth a burden out of your houses on the Sabbath day, nor do ye any work, but hallow ye the Sabbath day, as I commanded your fathers. V. 23.] But they obeyed not, neither inclined their ear, but made their neck stiff, that they might not hear, nor receive instruction. Neh. 13. from v. 15. to v. 23. In those dayes saw I in Judah some treading wine presses on the Sabbath day,—&c..

Q. What is the sum of the six Commandments, which contain our duty to man?

A. The summe of the six Commandments, which contain our duty to man, is, to love our neighbour as our selves Mat. 22. 39. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thy self., and to do to others what we would have them do to us Mat. 7. 12. Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, do ye even to them: for this is the Law and the Prophets..

Q. Which is the fift Commandment?

A. The fifth Commandment is, Honour thy father and thy mother, that thy dayes may be long upon the land, which the Lord thy God giveth thee Exod. 20. 12..

Q. Who are meant by Father, and Mother, in the fifth Commandment?

A. By Father and Mother, in the fifth Commandment, are meant not onely natural parents Pro. 23. 22.-25 Hearken to thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.—V. 25.). Thy father and mother shall be glad, and she that bare thee shall rejoyce. Eph. 6. 1, 2. Children obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. V. 2.] Honour thy father and thy mother (which is the first Commandment with promise.), but [Page 234] all superiours in age 1 Tim. 5. 1, 2. Rebuke not an Elder, but entreat him as a father, and the yonger men as brethren V. 2.] The elder women as mothers, the younger as sisters, with all purity., and gifts Gen. 4. 20. 21, 22. And Adah bare Jubal he was the Father of such as dwell in Tents. and of such as have cattel. V. 21.] And his brothers name was Juba; he was the father of all such as handle the Harp, and Organ. V. 22.] And Zillah she also bare Tubal Cain, an instructer of every Artificer in Brasse and Iron, &c —Gen. 45. 8. So now it was not you that sent me hither but God: he hath made me a father to Pharaoh, and Lord of all his house, and Ruler throughout all the land of Egypt., and especially such as by GODS ordinance are over us in place of authority, whether in Family 2 Kin. 5. 13. And his servants came neer, and spake unto him, My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, &c.—, Church 2 Kin. 2. 12. And Elisha saw it, and he cryed, My father, my father, the Chariot of Israel and the horsmen thereof. 2 Kin. 13. 14. Now Elisha was fallen sick of his sickness whereof he dyed; and Joash the King of Israel came down to him, and wept over his face, and said, O my father, my father, the Chariot of Israel and the horsmen thereof! Gal. 4. 19. My little children, of whom I travel in birth again, until Christ be formed in you., or Commonwealth Isai. 49. 23. And Kings shall be thy nursing fathers, and Queens thy nursing mothers; they shall bow down to thee with their face toward the earth and lick up the dust of thy feet, and thou shalt know, that I am the Lord—.

Q. Why are Superiours, stiled, Father and Mother?

A. Superiours are stiled Father and Mother, both to teach them▪ in all duties towards their inferiours, like natural parents, to expresse love and tenderness to them, according to their several relations Eph. 6. 4. And ye Fathers, provoke not your children to wrath but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. 2 Cor. 12. 14. For the children ought not to lay up for the parents, but the parents for the children. 1 Thess. 2. 7, 8. 11. But we are gentle amongst you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children. V. 8.] So being affectionatly desirous of you, if we were willing to have imparted to you, not the Gospel of God only, but also our own souls; because ye were dear unto us—V. 11.] As ye know how we exhorted and comforted, and charged everyone of you, as a father doth his children. Numb. 11. 11, 12. And Moses said unto the Lord, wherefore hast thou afflicted thy servant, and wherefore have I not found favour in thy sight, that thou layest the burden of all this people upon me? V. 12.] Have I conceived all this people? Have I begotten them? that thou shouldest say unto me, Carry them in thy bosome, as a nursing father beareth a sucking child, unto the land which thou swearest unto their fathers., and to work inferiours to a greater willingness and chearfulness in performing their duties to their Superiours as to their parents. 1 Cor. 4. 14, 15, 16. I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons, I warn you. V. 15.] For though ye have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many▪ Fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the Gospel, V. 16.] Wherefore I beseech you be ye followers of me. 1 Kin. 5. 13. And his servants came neer, and spake unto him, and said, My father. &c.—.

Q. What is the general scope of the fifth Commandment?

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A. The general scope of the fifth Commandment, is, the performance of those duties which we mutually owe in our several relations, as Inferiours, Superiours, Equals Eph. 5. 21. Submitting your selves one to another in the fear of God. 1 Pet. 2. 17. Honour all men; Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the King. Rom. 12. 10. Be kindly affectioned one to another, with brotherly love in honour preferring one another..

Q. What is the Honour that Inferiours owe to their Superiours?

A. The Honour which Inferiours owe to their Superiours, is, all due reverence, in heart Mal. 1. 6. A son honoureth his father, and a servant his master; If then I be a father, where is mine honour? if I be a master, where is my fear, saith the Lord of hosts unto you, O Princes, that despise my Name? and ye [...] say, Wherein have we despised thy Name? Lev. 19. 3. Ye shall fear every man his mother, and his father, and keep my Sabbaths. I am the Lord your God., word Pro. 31. 28. Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also he praiseth her. 1 Pet. 3. 6. Even as Sarah obeyed Abraham, calling him Lord; whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement., and behaviour Lev. 19, 32. Thou shalt rise up before the hoary head, and honour the face of the old man, and fear thy God: I am the Lord. 1 King. 2. 19. Bathshebah therefore went unto King Solomon to speak unto him for Adonijah; and the King rose up to meet her, and bowed himself to her, and sate down on his throne, and caused a seat to be set for the Kings mother, and she sate on his right hand.; prayer, and thanksgiving for them 1 Tim. 2. 1, 2. I exhort therefore that supplications, prayers, intercessions and thanksgivings be made for all men. V. 2.] For Kings, and all that are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life, in all godliness and honesty., imitation of their vertues and graces Heb. 13. 7. Remember them who have the rule over you, who have spoken to you the word of God, whose faith follow▪ considering the end of their conversation. Phil. 3. 17. Brethren, be followers together of me; and mark them who walk so as ye have us for an example.; willing obedience to their lawful commands, and counsels Eph▪ 6. 1, 2.-5, 6, 7. Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. V. 2.] Honour thy father and mother (which is the first Commandment with promise)—V. 5.] Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ. V. 6.] Not with eye-service, as men-pleasers, but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart. V. 7.] With good will, doing service as to the Lord, and not to men. 1 Pet. 2. 13, 14. Submit your selves to every ord nance of man, for the Lords sake, whether it be to the King as supreme. V. 14.] Or unto Governours, as unto them that are sent by him, for the punishment of evil doers, and for the praise of them that do well. Rom. 13. 1, 2. 3 4, 5. Let every soul be subject to the higher powers: for there is no power but of God; the powers that be, are ordained of God. V. 2.] Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the Ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. V. 3.] For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good▪ and thou shalt have praise of the same. V. 4.] For he is the minister of God to thee for good▪ but if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon them that doth evil. V. 5.] Wherefore ye must needs be subject, not only for wrath, but for conscience sake. Heb. 13. 17. Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit your selves. Prov. 4. 3, 4. For I was my fathers son tender, and only beloved in the sight of my mother. V. 4.] He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thy heart retain my words, keep my Commandments, and live. Pro. 23. 22. Hearken to thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old. Exod. 18. 19-24. Hearken now unto my voice, I will give thee counsel, and God shall be with thee—V. 24.] So Moses hearkned to the voice of his father-in-law, and did all that he said., due submission [Page 236] to their corrections Heb. 12. 9. Furthermore, we have had fathers of our flesh, who corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the father of Spirits, and live? 1 Pet. 2. 18, 19, 20. Servants be subject to your masters, with all fear, not only to the good, and gentle, but also to the froward. V. 19.] For this is thank-worthy, if a man for conscience towards God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. V. 20.] For what glory is it, if when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God., fidelity to Tit. 2. 9, 10. Exhort servants to be obedient to their own masters, and to please them well in all things, not answering them again. V. 10.] Not purloyning, but shewing all good fidelity, that they may adorn the doctrine of God, our Saviour in all things., defence, and maintenance of their persons and authority, according to their several ranks, and the nature of their places Mat. 22. 21. They say unto him, Caesars. Then saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's, and unto God the things which are God's. Rom. 13. 6, 7. For this cause pay ye tribute also: For they are God's Ministers, attending continually upon this very thing. V. 7.] Render therefore unto all their dues; tribute, to whom tribute is due; custome, to whom custome; fear, to whom fear; honour, to whom honour. 1 Tim. 5. 17, 18. Let the Elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the Word and Doctrine. V. 18.] For the Scripture saith, Thou shalt not muzle the Oxe that treadeth out the corn: and, The labourer is worthy of his reward. Gal. 6. 6. Let him that is taught in the Word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Gen. 45. 11. And there will I nourish thee (for yet there are five years of famine) least thou and thy houshold, and all that thou hast▪ come to poverty. Gen. 47. 12. And Joseph nourished his father, and his brethren, and all his fathers houshold with bread, according to their families.; bearing with their infirmities, and covering them in love 1 Pet. 2. 18. Servants be subject to your Masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward. Prov. 23. 22. Hearken unto thy father which begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old. Gen. 9. 23. And Sem and Japhet took a garment and laid it upon both their shoulders, and went backwards, and covered the nakedness of their father; and their faces were backward, and they saw not their fathers nakedness—, that so they may be an honour to them and to their government Psal. 127. 3, 4, 5. Lo, children are an inheritance of the Lord, and the fruit of the womb is his reward. V. 4.] As arrowes are in the hand of a mighty man, so are children of the youth. V. 5.] Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them; they shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with the enemies in the gate. Prov. 31. 23. Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the Elders of the land.. (t) 1 Sam. 26. 15, 16. And David said to Abner, Art not thou a valiant man? and who is like to thee in Israel? Wherefore then hast thou not kept thy Lord, the King? for there came one of the people in, to destroy the King, thy Lord. V. 16.] This thing is not good which thou hast done. As the Lord liveth, ye are worthy to die, because ye have not kept your Master, the Lords anointed.—2 Sam. 18. 3. But the people answered, Thou shalt not go forth: for if we flee away, they will not care for us, neither if half of us die, will they care for us; but now thou art worth ten thousand of us, therefore now it is better that thou succour us out of the City. Esth. 6. 2. And it was found written that Mordecat had told of Bigthana and Teresh, two of the Kings Chamberlains, the keepers of the door, who sought to lay hands on the King Ahasuerus.

Q. What are the sins of Inferiours against their Superiours?

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A. The sinnes of Inferiours against their Superiours, are, all neglect of the duties required toward them Mat. 15. 4, 5, 6. For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and thy mother, and he that curseth father or mother, let him dye the death. V. 5.] But ye say, that whosoever shall say to his father or mother, It is a gift by whatsoever thou mightst be profited by me. V. 6.] And honour not his father and mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the Commandment of God of none effect, by your tradition.; envying at Num. 11. 28, 29. And Josuah the son of Nun, the servant of Moses, one of his young men answered, and said my lord Moses, forbid them. V. 29.] And Moses said unto him, Enviest thou for my sake? Would God that all the Lords people were Prophets, and that the Lord would put his Spirit upon them., contempt of 1 Sam. 8. 7. And the Lord said unto Samuel, hearken unto the voice of the people in all what they say unto thee, for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them. Isa. 3. 5. And the people shall be oppressed every one by another, and every one by his neighbour, and the child shall behave himself proudly against the ancient, and the base against the honourable., and Rebellion 2 Sam. 15. from v. 1. to v. 12. And it came to pass after that Absalom prepared him chariots and horses—&c.—and so on., against their persons Exod. 21. 15. And he that smiteth his father, or mother shall surely be put to death., and places 1 Sam. 10. 27. But the children of Belial said, How shall this man save us? and they despised him, and brought him no presents: but he held his peace., in their lawful counsels 1 Sam. 2. 25—Notwithstanding they (viz. the sons of Eli) hearkned not unto the voice of their father; because the Lord would slay them., commands, and corrections Deut. 21. 18, 19, 20, 21. If a man have a stubborn and rebellious son, which will not obey the voice of his father, or the voice of his mother, and that when they have chastened him, will not bearken unto them. V. 19.] Then shall his father and mother lay hold on him, and bring him out unto the Elders of his City, and unto the gate of his place. V. 20.] And they shall say to the Elders of his City, This our son is stubborn and rebellious, he will not obey our voice; he is a glutton, and a drunkard. V. 21.] And all the men of his City shall stone him with stones, that he dye: So shall thou put evill away &c., cursing, mocking Prov. 30. 11-17. There is a generation that curseth their father, and doth not bless their mother.—V. 17.] The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother; the Ravens of the valley shall pick it out, and the young Eagles shall eat it., and all such refractory and scandalons carriage, as proves a shame and dishonour to them and their government Prov. 19. 26. He that wasteth his father, and chaseth away his mother, is a son that causeth shame, and briageth reproach..

Q. What is required of Superiours toward their Inferiours?

A. It is required of Superiours, according to that power they receive from God, and that relation wherein they stand, to love Col. 3. 19. Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them. Tit. 2. 4. That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children., pray for 1 Sam. 12. 23. Moreover, as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way. Job 1. 5. And it was so, when the dayes of their feasting were gone about, that Job sant, and sanctified them, and rose up early in the morning, and offered burnt offerings, according to the number of them all: for Job said, It may be that my sons have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts: Thus did Job continually., and blesse [Page 238] their inferiours 1 King 8. 55, 56. And he stood and blessed all the Congregation of Israel with a loud voice, saying, V. 56.] Blessed be the Lord God, that hath given rest to his people Israel, according to all that he promised; there hath not failed, &c. —Heb. 7. 7. And without all contradiction, the less is blessed of the greater. Gen. 49. 28. All these are the twelve Tribes of Israel, and this is it that their father spake unto them, and blessed them, every one according to his blessing, he blessed them.; to instruct Deut. 6. 6, 7. And these words which I command thee this day shall be in thy heart V. 7.] And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou lyest down, and when thou risest up., counsel, and admonish them Eph. 6. 4. And ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath, but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.; countenancing 1 Pet 3. 7. Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers be not hindred., commending 1 Pet. 2. 14. Or unto governours, as unto them that are sent by him, for the punishment of evil doers, and the praise of them that do well. Rom. 13. 3. For Rulers are not a terrour to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good and thou shalt have praise of the same., and rewarding such as do well Esth. 6. 3. And the King said, What honour and dignity hath been done to Mordecai for this? Then saith the Kings servants, There is nothing done for him.; discountenancing Rom. 13. 3, 4. For Rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil.—V. 4▪] For he is the Minister of God to thee for good: but if thou do evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger, to execute wrath upon him that doth evil., reproving, and chastising such as do ill Prov. 29. 15. The Rod and Reproof give wisdome, but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame. 1 Pet. 2. 14. See above in [P]; protecting Job 29. 12, 13, 14. 15, 16, 17. Because I delivered the poor that cryed, the fatherless, and him that had none to help him. V. 13.] The blessing of him that was ready to perish came upon me; and I caused the widowes heart to sing for joy. V. 14.] I put on righteousness, and it clothed me; my judgement was a robe and a diadem. V. 15.] I was eyes to the blind, and feet was I to the lame. V. 16.] I was as a father to the poor, and the cause which I knew not, I searched out. V. 17.] And I brake the jawes of the wicked, and plucked the spoil out of his mouth. Isa. 1. 10.-17. Hear the voice of the Lord, ye Rulers of Sodom; give ear unto the law of our God, ye people of Gomorrah.—V. 17.] Learn to do well, seek judgement, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow., and providing for them all things necessary for soul Eph. 6. 4. And ye fathers, provoke not your children, but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. and body 1 Tim. 5. 8. But if any man provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he hath denied the saith, and is worse then an Infidel.; and by grave, wise, holy, and exemplary carriage, to procure glory to God 1 Tim. 4. 12. Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of all the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in Spirit, in faith, in purity. Tit. 2. 3, 4, 5. The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things. V. 4.] That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children. V. 5.] To be discreet, chast, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blesphemed., honour to themselves 1 King. 3. 28. And all Israel heard of the judgement which the King had judged; and they feared the King, for they saw that the wisdome of God was in him, to do judgement., and so to preserve that authority which God hath put upon them Tit. 2. 15. These things speak and exhort, and rebuke with all [...]uthority: let no man despise thee..

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Q. What are the sins of Superiours?

A. The sinnes of Superiours are, beside the neglect of the duties required of them Ezek. 34. 2, 3. 4. Son of man prophecy against the shepherds of Israel; prophesie, & say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God unto the shepherds, wo be to the shepherds of Israel, that do feed themselves; should not the shepherds feed the flocks? V. 3.] Ye eat the fat and cloath you with the wooll, ye kill them that are good; but ye feed not the flock. V. 4.] The diseased have ye not strengthned, nor have ye healed that which was sick, nor bound up that which was broken, nor brought again that which was driven away, nor sought that which was lost, but with force and cruelty have ye ruled them., an inordinate seeking of themselves Phil. 2. 21. For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christs., their own glory Joh. 5. 44. How can ye believe, who receive honour one of another, and seek not the honour that cometh from God only? Joh. 7. 18. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory who sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him., ease, profit, or pleasure Isai. 56. 10, 11. His watchmen are blind, they are all ignorant, they are all dumb dogs, they cannot bark, sleeping, lying down, loving to slumber. V. 11.] Yea, they are greedy dogs, which can never have enough, and they are shepherds that cannot understand; they all look to their own, every one for his gain from his quarter. Deut. 17. 17. Neither shall he multiply wives to himself, that his heart turn not away; neither shall he greatly multiply to himself silver and gold.; commanding things unlawful Dan. 3, 4 5, 6. Then an Herald cried aloud, To you it is commanded, O people, nations and languages, V. 5.] That at what time ye hear the sound of the Corner, Flute, Harp, Sackbut, Psaltery, Dulcimer, and all kindes of musick, ye fall down and worship the golden Image, which Nebuchadnezzar the King hath set up. V. 6.] And whoso falloth not down, shall be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace. Act. 4. 17, 18. But that it spread no further among the people, let us straitly threaten them that they speak henceforth to no man in this name. V. 18.] And they called them, and commanded them not to speak at all, nor teach in the name of Jesus., or not in the power of Inferiours to perform Exod. 5. from ver. 10. to the 18. And the Task-masters of the people went out and their officers, and they spake to the people saying, Thus saith Pharaoh, I will not give you straw &c —Mat. 23. 2.-4. Saying, The Scribes and Pharisees sit in Moses Seat—V. 4.] For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be born, and lay them on mens shoulders, but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers.; counselling Mat. 14. 8. And she being before instructed of her mother, said, Give me here John Baptists head in a charger. Compared with Mark. 6. 24. And she went forth, and said unto her mother, what shall I ask? and she said, The head of John Baptist., encouraging 2 Sam. 13. 28. Now Absalom had commanded his servants saying, Mark ye now when Amnons heart is merry with wine, and when I say unto you, smite Amnon, then kill him; fear not, have not I commanded you? be couragious and valiant., or favouring them in that which is evil 1 Sam. 3. 13. For I have told him that I will judge his house for ever, for the iniquity which he knoweth; because his sons made themselves vile, and he restrained them not., disswading, discouraging, or discountenancing them in that which is good Joh. 7. 46, 47, 48, 49. The officers answered, Never man spake like this man. V. 47.] Then answered them the Pharisees, are ye also deceived? V. 48.] Have any of the Rulers or Pharisees believed on him? V. 49.] But this people who knoweth not the law are cursed. Col. 3. 21. Fathers provoke not your children to wrath lest they be discouraged. Exod. 5. 17. But he said, ye are idle; ye are idle, therefore ye say, Let us go, and do sacrifice to the Lord.; correcting them unduly 1 Pet. 2. 18, 19. 20. Servants be subject to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward. V. 19.] For this is thank-worthy, if a man for conscience towards God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. V. 20.] For what glory is it, if when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if when ye do well and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. Heb. 12. 10. For they verily for a few dayes, chastened us after their own pleasures; but he for our profit, that we might be partakers &c. —Deut. 25. 3. Forty stripes he may give him, and not exceed, least if he should exceed, and beat him above these with many stripes, then thy brother should seem vile unto thee., [Page 240] careless exposing, or leaving them to wrong, temptation and danger Gen. 38. 11.-26. Then said Judah to Tamar his daughter in law, Remain a widdow at thy fathers house, till Shelah my son be grown up: for he said, least peradventure he die also, as his brethren did—V. 26.] And Judah acknowledged them, and said, She hath been more righteous then I, because I gave her not to Shelah my son: and he knew her again no more. Act. 18. 17. Then all the Greeks took Sosthenes the chief Ruler of the Synagogue, and beat him before the judgement seat, and Gallio cared for none of these things.; provoking them to wrath Eph. 6. 4. And ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath, but bring them up in, &c.; or any way dishonouring themselves, or lessening their authority, by an unjust, indiscreet, rigorous or remisse behaviour Gen. 9. 21. And he drank of the wine, and was drunken, and he was uncovered within his tent. 1 Kin. 12. 13, 14, 15, 16. And the King (Rehoboam) answered the people roughly, and forsook the old mens counsel which they gave him, V. 14.] And spake to them after the councel of the young men, saying, My father made your yoke heavy; and I will add to your yoke: my father chastised you with whips; but I will chastise you with scorpions. V. 15.] Wherefore the King hearkened not to the people; for the cause was from the Lord—V. 16.] So when all Israel saw that the King hearkened not to them, the people answered the King, saying, what portion have we in David? neither have we inheritance in the son of Jesse; to your tents, O Israel: now see to thine own house, David, so Israel departed to their tents. 1 Kin. 1. 6. And his father had not despleased him (viz. Adonijah) at any time, in saying, why hast thou done so—1 Sam. 2. 29, 30, 31. Wherefore kick ye at my sacrifices, and at my offering, which I have commanded in mine habitation, and honourest thy sons above me, to make your selves fat, with the chiefest of all the offerings of Israel my people? V. 30.] Wherefore the Lord God of Israel saith, I said, indeed, that the house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever; but now the Lord said, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour; and they that despise me, shall be lightly esteemed. V. 31.] Behold the dayes come; that I will cut off thine arm, and the arm of thy fathers house, that there shall not be an old man in thine house..

Q. What are the duties of equals?

A. The duties of equals are, to regard the dignity and worth of each other 1 Pet. 2. 17. Honour all men, love the brother-hood, fear God, honour the King., in giving honour to go one before another Rom. 12. 10. Be kindly affectioned one towards another with brotherly love, in honour preferring one another., and to rejoyce in each others gifts and advancement ^s, as in their own Rom. 12. 15, 16. Rejoyce with them that do rejoyce, and weep with them that weep. V. 16.] Be of the same mind, one towards another; mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate, &c. Phil. 2. 3, 4. Let nothing be done through strife or vain glory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better then themselves. V. 4.] Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others..

Q. What are the sinnes of equals?

A. The sins of equals are, beside the neglect of the duties required Rom. 13. 8. O we no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the Law., the undervaluing of the worth 2 Tim. 3. 3. Without natural affection, &c., envying [Page 241] the gifts Act. 7. 9. And the Patriarchs moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt; but God was with him. Gal. 5. 26. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another., grieving at the advancement or prosperity, one of another Num. 12. 2. And they said, Hath the Lord indeed only spoken by Moses? hath he not also spoken by us? and the Lord heard it. Esth. 6. 12, 13. And Mordecai came again to the Kings gate; but Haman hasted to his house mourning, and having his head covered. V. 13.] And Haman told Zeresh his wife, and all his friends every thing that had be fallen him. Then said his wise men, and Zeresh his wife unto him, if Mordecai be of the seed of the Jews, before whom thou hast begun to fall, thou shalt not prevail against him, but shalt surely fall before him., and usurping preheminence one over another 3 Joh. ver. 9. I wrote unto the Church; but Diotrephes who loveth to have the preheminence amongst them, receiveth us not. Luke 22. 24. And there was also a strife among them, which of them should be the greatest..

Q. What is the Reason annexed to the fifth Commandment, the more to enforce it?

A. The Reason annexed to the fifth Commandment, in these words, [That thy dayes may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee Exod. 20. 12.] is an expresse promise of long life and prosperity, as far as it shall serve for Gods glory, and their own good, to all such as keep this Commandment Deut. 5. 16. Honor thy father and thy mother, as the Lord thy God hath commanded thee, that thy dayes may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. 1 King. 8. 25. Therefore now, Lord God of Israel keep with thy servant David, my father, that which thou promisedst him, saying, There shall not fail thee a man in thy sight to sit on the throne of Israel, so that thy children take heed to their way, that they walk before me as thou hast walked before me. Eph. 6. 2, 3. Honour thy father and thy mother (which is the first Commandment with promise.) V. 3.] That it may be well with thee, and thou maist live long on the earth..

Q. Which is the sixth Commandment?

A. The sixth Commandment is, [Thou shalt not kill Exod. 20. 43..]

Q. What are the duties required in the sixth Commandment?

A. The duties required in the sixth Commandment, are, all careful studies, and lawful endeavours to preserve the life of our selves Eph. 5. 28, 29. So their own wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife, loveth himself. V. 29.] For no man ever hated his own flesh, but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the Church? and others 1 King. 18. 4. For it was so, when Jezebel cut off the Prophets of the Lord, that Obadiah took an hundred Prophets, and bid them by fifty in a cave. and fed them with bread and water., by resisting [Page 242] all thoughts and purposes Jer. 26. 15, 16. But know ye for certain, that if ye put me to death, ye shall surely bring innocent blood upon your selves, and upon this City, and upon the inhabitants thereof; for of a truth the Lord hath sent me unto you to speak all these words in your ears. V. 16.] Then said the Princes, and all the people to the Prophets, This man is not worthy to die; for he hath spoken unto us in the Name of the Lord our God. Act. 23. 12-16, 17-21-27. And when it was day, certain of the Jews banded together, and bound themselves under a curse, saying, That they would neither eat nor drink till they had killed Paul.—V. 16.] And when Pauls sisters sen heard of their lying in wait, he went and entred into the Castle and told Paul. V. 17.] Then Paul called one of the Centurions unto him, and said, Bring this young man unto the chief Captain, for he hath a certain thing to tell him.—V. 21.] There lie in wait for him more then sorty men, which have bound themselves with an oath, that—and now are they ready, looking for a promise from thee.—V. 27. This man was taken of the Jews, and should have been killed of them: then came I with an army and rescued him, having understood that he was a Roman., subduing all passions Eph. 4. 26, 27. Be ye angry, and sin not; let not the sun go down upon your wrath; V. 27.] Neither give place to the devil, and avoiding all occasions 2 Sam. 2. 22. And Abner said again to Asahel, Turn thee aside from following me; wherefore should I smite thee to the ground? how then should I hold up my face to Joab thy brother? Deut. 22. 8. When thou buildest a new house, then thou shalt make a battlement for thy roof, that thou bring not blood upon thy house, if any man fall from thence.; temptations Mat. 4. 6, 7.—And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thy self down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge over thee, and in their hands they shall bear thee up, least at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. V. 7.] Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shall not tempt the Lord thy God. Pro. 1. 10, 11-15, 16. My son, if sinners entice thee consent thou not V. 11.] If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause.—V. 15.] My son walk not thou in the way with them, refrain thy foot from their path. V. 16.] For their feet run to evil, and make hast to shed blood., and practises, which tend to the unjust taking away the life of any 1 Sam. 24. 12. The Lord judge between me and thee, and the Lord avenge me of thee; but mine hand shall not be upon thee. 1 Sam. 26. 9, 10, 11. And David said to Abishai, Destroy him not: for who can stretch forth his hand against the Lords anointed, and be guiltless? V. 10.] David said furthermore, as the Lord liveth, the Lord shall smite him, or his day shall come to die, or he shall descend into battle and perish. V. 11.] The Lord forbid that I should stretch forth mine hand against the Lords anointed.—Gen. 37. 21. 22. And Reuben heard it, and he delivered him out of their hands, and said, Let us not kill him. V. 22.] And Reuben said to them, Shed no blood, but cast him into this pit that is in the wilderness, and lay no hands upon him; that he might rid him out of their hands, to deliver▪ him to his father again.; by just defence thereof against violence Psal. 82. 4. Deliver the poor and needy, nid them out of the hand of the wicked. Pro. 24. 11, 12. If thou forbear to deliver them that are drawn unto death, and those that are ready to be slain. V. 12.] If thou saist, Behold we knew it not, doth not he that pondereth the heart consider it? and he that keepeth thy soul, doth not he know it? and shall not he render to every man according to his works? 1 Sam. 14. 45. And the people said unto Saul, Shall Jonathan die, who hath wrought this great salvation in Israel? God forbid. As the Lord liveth, there shall not one hair of his head fall to the ground: for he hath wrought with God this day. So the people rescued Jonathan, that he died not., patient bearing of the hand of God Jam. 5. 7, 8, 9, 10, 11. Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord; behold the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience, &c. V. 8.] Be ye also patient, stablish your hearts▪ for the coming of the Lord drawes nigh. V. 9.] Grudg not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned; behold the Judge standeth before the door. V. 10. Take my brethren, the Prophets who have spoken in the Name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. V. 11.] Behold we count them happy that endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord, &c. —H [...]b. 12. 9. Furthermore, we have had fathers of our flesh who corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection to the father of Spirits, and live?, quietnesse of [Page 243] mind 1 Thes. 4. 11.—And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own businesse, &c. 1 Pet. 3. 4. Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning, &c.—V. 4.] But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. Psal. 37. 8, 9, 10, 11. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; fret not thy self in any wise to do evil. V. 9.] For evil doers shall be cut off: but they that wait upon the Lord shall inherit the earth. V. 10.] For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be. V. 11.] But the meek shall inherit the earth, and shall delight themselves in abundance of peace., chearfulnesse of spirit Pro. 17. 22. A merry heart doth good like a medicine; but a broken spirit dryeth the bones., a sober use of meat Prov. 25. 16-27. Hast thou found honey? cat so much as is sufficient for thee; least thou be filled therewith, and vomit it.—V. 27.] It is not good to eat much honey, &c.—, drink 1 Tim. 5. 23. Drink no longer water, but drink a little wine for thy stomach's sake, and thine often infirmities., physick Isa. 38. 21. For Isaiah had said, Let him take a lump of figs, and lay it for a plaister upon the boil; and he shall recover., sleep Psal. 127. 2. It is in vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows; for so he giveth his beloved sleep, labour Eccles. 5. 12. The sleep of a labouring man is sweet, whether he eat little or much; but the abundance of the rich will not suffer him to sleep. 2 Thes. 3. 10-12. For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, That if any would not work, neither should he eat.—V. 12. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. Prov 16. 26. He that laboureth, laboureth for himself; for his mouth craveth it of him., and recreations Eccl. 3. 4.-11. A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance.—V. 11.] He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, &c.—; by charitable thoughts 1 Sam. 19. 4. 5. And Jonathan spake good of David unto Saul his father, and said unto him, Let not the King sin against his servant, against David; because he hath not sinned against thee; and because his works have been to thee-ward very good. V. 5.] For he did put his life in his hand and slew the Philistine, and the Lord wrought a great salvation for all Israel thou sawest it, and didst rejoyce; wherefore then wilt thou sin against innocent blood, to slay David without a cause? 1 Sam. 22. 13, 14. And Saul said unto him, Why have ye conspired against me, thou and the son of Jesse, in that thou hast given him bread, and a sword, &c.—V. 14.] And Ahimilech answered the King, and said▪ And who is so faithful among all thy servants as David, which is the Kings son in-law, and goes at thy bidding, and is honourable in thine house?, love Rom 13. 10. Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the Law., compassion Luk. 10. 33, 34, 35. But a certain Samaritan as he journied, came where he was, and when he saw him, he had compassion on him; V. 34.] And went to him, and bound up his wounds, powring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an Inn, and took care of him, &c.—, meeknesse, gentlenesse, kindnesse Col. 3. 12, 13. Put on therefore, as the Elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercy, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering. V. 13▪] Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man hath a quarrel against any, even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye., peaceable Jam. 3. 17. But the wisdome which is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easie to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, &c.—, mild, and courteous speeches and behaviour 1 Pet. 3. 8, 9 10, 11. Finally, be all of one mind, having compassion one of another: love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous. V. 9.] Not rendring evil for evil, or railing for railing, but contrariwise blessing, knowing that ye are therefore called that ye should inherit a blessing. V. 10.] For he that will love life, and see good dayes; let him refrain his longue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile. V. 11.] Let him eschew evil, and do good, let him seek peace and ensue it. Prov. 15. 1. A sost answer turneth away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger. Judg. 8. 1, 2, 3. And the men of Ephraim said unto him, Why hast thou served us thus? Thou calledst us not when thou wentest to fight with the Midianites; and they did chide with with him sharply. V. 2.] And he said unto them, What have I done now in comparison of you? Is not the gleaning of the grapes of Ephraim better then the vintage of Abiezer? V. 3.] God hath delivered into your hands the Princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb; and what was I able to do in comparison of you? Then their anger was abated towards him, when he had said that., [Page 244] forbearance, readiness to be reconciled, patient bearing and forgiving of injuries, and requiting good for evil Mat. 5. 24. Leave there thy gift before the Altar, and go thy way, first be reconciled to thy brother. Eph. 4. 2.-32. With all lowlinesse and meeknesse, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love—V. 32.] And be kinde one to another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christs sake hath forgiven you. Rom. 12. 17.-20, 21. Recompence to no man evil for evil, &c.—V. 20.] Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing, thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. V. 21.] Be not overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good., comforting and succouring the distressed, and protecting and defending the innocent 1 Thes. 5. 14. Now we exhort you brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the seeble-minded, support the weak, be patient towards all men. Job 31. 19, 20. If I have seen any perish for want of clothing, or any poor without covering;—V. 20.] If his loins have not blessed me, and if he were not warmed with the fleece of my sheep. —Mat. 25. 35, 36. For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink; I was a stranger, and ye took me in. V. 36.] Naked, and ye clothed me; I was sick, and ye visited me; I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Prov. 31. 8, 9. Open thy mouth for the dumb, in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction V. 9.] Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy..

Q. What are the sins forbidden in the sixth Commandment?

A. The sins forbidden in the sixth Commandment, are, all taking away the life of our selves Act. 16. 28. But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thy self no harm; for we are all here., or of others Gen. 9. 6. Whoso sheddeth mans blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man., except in case of publick Justice Num. 35. 31.-33. Moreover, ye shall take no satisfaction for the life of a murderer, which is guilty of death: but be shall surely be put to death.—V. 33.] So ye shall not pollute the land wherein ye are: for blood, it defileth the land; and the land cannot be cleansed from the blood that is shed therein, but by the blood of him that shed it., lawful war Jer. 48. 10. Cursed be he that doth the work of the Lord deceitfully; and cursed be he that keepeth his sword from blood. Deut. 20. Chap. throughout., or necessary defence Exod. 22. 2, 3. If a thief be found breaking up, and be smitten that he die, there shall be no blood shed for him. V. 3.] If the sun be risen upon him, there shall be blood shed for him; for he should make full restitution; if he have nothing, then he shall be sold for his theft.; the neglecting or withdrawing the lawful and necessary means of preservation of life Mat. 25. 42, 43. For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat; thirsty; and ye gave me no drink. V. 43.] I was a stranger, and ye took me not in; naked, and ye clothed me not; sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. Jam. 2. 15, 16. If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food; V. 16.] And one of you say to them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed, and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit? Eccles. 6. 1, 2. There is an evil under the Sun, and it is common amongst men. V. 2.] A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth and honour, so that he wants nothing for his soul of all that he desireth; yet God gives him not power to eat thereof, but a stranger eateth it. This is vanity, and an evil disease., sinful anger Mat. 5. 22. But I say unto you that whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause, shall be in danger of the judgement; and whosoever, &c., hatred [Page 245] 1 Joh. 3. 15. Whosoever hateth his brother is a murtherer; and ye know that no murtherer hath eternal life abiding in him. Levit. 19. 17. Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thy heart, thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him., envy Prov. 14. 30. A sound heart is the life of the flesh, but envy the rottonness of the bones., desire of revenge Rom. 12. 19. Dearly beloved, avenge not your selves; but rather give place unto wrath, for it is written, vengeance is mine: I will repay, saith the Lord., all excessive passions Eph. 4. 31. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil-speaking be put away from you, with all malice., distracting cares Mat. 6. 31-34. Therefore take no thought, saying, what shall we eat? or what shall we drink? or wherewithall shall we be clothed? V. 34.] Take therefore no thought for the morrow, for the morrow shall take thought for the things of it self, sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof., immoderate use of meat, drink Luk. 21. 34. And take heed to your selves, least at any time your hearts be over-charged with surfeting, and drunkenness, and the cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. Rom. 13. 13. Let us walk honestly, as in the day, not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying., labour Eccl. 12. 12. Furthermore, by these, my son be admonished of making many books there is no end, and much study is a weariness of the flesh. Eccl. 2. 22, 23. For what hath a man of all his labour, and of the vexation of his heart, wherein he hath laboured under the Sun? V. 23.] For all his dayes are sorrow, and his travel, grief; yea, his heart taketh not rest in the night: This is also vanity., and recreations Isa. 5. 12. And the harp, and the viol, and the tabret, and pipe, and wine are in their feasts: but they regard not the work of the Lord, nor consider the operation of his hands.; provoking words Prov. 15. 1. A soft answer turneth away wrath; but grievous words stir up anger. Prov. 12. 18. There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword; but the tongue of the wise is health., oppression Ezek. 18. 18. As for his father, because he cruelly oppressed and spoiled his brother by violence; and did that which was not good among his people, lo even he shall dye in his iniquitie. Exod. 1. 14. And they made their lives bitter with bondage, in mortar and brick, and all manner of service, in the field: all their service wherein they made them serve was with rigour., quarrelling Gal. 5. 15. But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed ye be not consumed one of another. Prov. 23. 29. Who hath wo? who hath sorrow? who hath contentions? who hath babling? who hath wounds without cause? &c., striking, wounding Num. 35. 16, 17, 18-21. And if he smite him with an instrument of iron (so that he dye) he is a murderer, the murderer shall surely be put to death. V. 17.] And if he smite him with throwing a stone (so that he dye) he is a murderer the murderer shall surely be put to death. V. 18.] Or if he smite him with a hand-weapon of wood (wherewith he may dye) and he dye, he is a murderer, the murderer shall surely be put to death—V. 21.] Or in enmity smite him with his hand that he dye, he that smote him shall surely be put to death, for he is a murderer.—, and whatsoever else tends to the destruction of the life of any Exod. 21. from ver. 18. to the end, containing laws for smiters, for an hurt by chance, for an oxe that goreth, and for him that is an occasion of harm..

Q. Which is the seventh Commandment?

A. The seventh Commandment is, [Thou shalt not commit adultery Exod. 20. 14..]

Q. What are the duties required in the seventh Commandment?

A. The duties required in the seventh Commandment, [Page 246] are, Chastity in body, mind, affections 1 Thes. 4. 4. That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour. Job 31. 1. I have made a Covenant with mine eyes; why then should I th [...]nk upon a maid? 1 Cor. 7. 34. There is a difference also between a wife and a virgin; the unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy, both in body and spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband., words Col. 4. 6. Let your speech be alwayes with grace, seasoned with fall; that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man., and behaviour 1 Pet. 3. 2—While they behold your chast conversation coupled with fear.; and the preservation of it in our selves and others 1 Cor. 7. 2-35, 36. Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and every woman her own husband.—V. 35.] And this I speak for your profit, not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without destraction. V. 36.] But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age, and need do require, let him do what he will; he sinneth not, let them marry.; watchfulness over the eyes, and all the senses Job 31. 1. I have made a covenant with mine eyes, why then should I think upon a maid?; temperance Act. 24. 24, 25. And after certain dayes, when Felix came with his wife Drusilla, which was a Jew, he sent for Paul, and heard him concerning the faith of Christ. V. 25.] And as he reasoned of Righteousness, Temperance, and Judgement to come, Felix trembled, &c.—, keeping of chast company, Prov. 2. 16, 17, 18, 19, 20. To deliver thee from the strange woman, even from the stranger which flattereth with her words. V. 17.] Which forsaketh the guide of her youth, and forgetteth the covenant of her God. V. 18.] For her house inclineth to death, and her paths unto the dead. V. 19.] None that go unto her return again, neither take they hold of the paths of life. V. 20.] That thou maist walk in the way of good men, and keep the paths of the righteous., modesty in apparel 1 Tim. 2. 9. In like manner also that the women adorn themselves in modest apparel with shamefastness and sobriety, not with broidered haire, or gold, or pearl, or costly array., marriage by those that have not the gift of continency 1 Cor. 7. 2-9. Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and every woman her own husband—V. 9.] But if they cannot contain, let them marry, for it is better to marry then to burn.; conjugall love Prov. 5. 19, 20. Let her be as the loving Hind and pleasant Roe; let her breast satisfie thee at all times, and be thou ravisht alwayes with her love. V. 20.] And why wilt thou, my son, be ravished with a strange woman, and embrace the bosome of a stranger., and cohabitation 1 Pet. 3. 7. Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour to the wife as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heires together of the grace of life, that your prayers be not hindred., diligent labour in our callings Prov. 31. 11-27, 28. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her; so that he shall have no need of spoile—V. 27. She looketh well to the wayes of her houshold, and eateth not the bread of idleness. V. 28.] Her children arise up and call her blessed: her husband he also praiseth her., shunning all occasions of uncleanness, and resisting temptations thereunto Prov. 5. 8. Remove thy way from her, and come not nigh the door of her house. Gen. 39. 8, 9, 10. But Joseph refused, and said unto his masters wife, Behold my master knoweth not what is with me in the house, and he hath committed all that he hath into my hand. V. 9.] There is none greater in this house then I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me, but thee, because thou art his wife; How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? V. 10.] And it came to pass, as she spake to Joseph day by day, that he hearkned not unto her, to lye by her, or to be with her..

Q. What are the sinnes forbidden in the seventh Commandment?

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A. The sinnes forbidden in the seventh Commandment, besides the neglect of the duties required Pro. 5. 7. Hear me now therefore, O ye children, and depart not from the words of my mouth., are, adultery, fornication Heb. 13. 4 Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. Gal. 5. 19. Now the workes of the flesh are manifest, which are these, Adultery, Fornication, uncleanness, Lasciviousness, &c., rape, incest 2 Sam. 13. 14. Howbeit he (viz. Amnon) would not hearken unto her voice, but being stronger then she, forced her, and lay with her. 1 Cor. 5. 1. It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as to be named among the Gentiles, that one should have his fathers wife., sodomy, and all unnatural lusts Rom. 1. 24-26, 27. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves—V. 26.] For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections; for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature. V. 27.] And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one towards another, men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence, of their error which was meet. Lev. 20. 15, 16. And if a man lie with a beast, he shall surely be put to death, and ye shall slay the beast. V. 16.] If a woman approach unto any beast, and lie down thereto, thou shall kill the woman, and the beast: they shall surely be put to death: their blood shall be upon them., all unclean imaginations, thoughts, purpose and affections Mat. 5. 28. But I say unto you, that whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her, hath committed adultery with her al [...]eady in his heart. Mat. 15. 19. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness,—&c. Col. 3. 5. Mortifie therefore your members which are upon the earth, fornication, uncle [...]nness, inordinate affection, evil concup [...]scence, and covetousness, which is idolat [...]y., all corrupt or filthy communications, or listening thereunto Eph. 5. 3, 4. But fornication and all uncleanness; or covetousness, let it not be once named amongst you, as becometh Saints: V. 4.] Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not conven [...]ent. Pro. 7. 5-21, 22. That they may keep thee from the strange woman, from the stranger which flattereth with her words. V. 21.] With much fair speech she caused him to yield, with the flattering of her lips she forced him. V. 22.] He goeth after her straightway, as an ox goes to the slaughter, or as a fool to the correction of the stocks.; wanton looks Is. 3. 16. Moreover the Lord saith, because the daughters of Sion, are haughty & walk with stretched out necks, and wont on eyes, walking & mincing as they go, and making a tinckling with their feet. 2 Pet. 2. 14. Having eyes full of adultery, and that cannot cease from sin, beguiling unstable souls, &c.—, impudent, or light behaviour; immodest apparel Pro. 7. 10-13. And behold there met him a woman with the attire of an harlot, and subtil of heart—V. 13. So she caught him and k [...]ssed him, and with an impudent face said unto him—; prohibiting of lawful 1 Tim. 4. 3. Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath commanded to be received with thanksgiving of them who believe and know the truth., and dispensing with unlawful marriages Lev. 18. from ver. 1. to the 21. Mark 6. 18. For John said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brothers wife. Mal. 2. 11, 12. Judah hath dealt treacherously, and an abomination is committed in Israel, and in Jerusalem; for Judah hath profaned the holiness of the Lord, which he loved, and hath married the daughter of a strange God. V. 12.] The Lord will cut off the man that doth this; the master and the scholar out of the Tabernacles of Jacob, and him that offereth an offering unto the Lord of host., allowing, tolerating, keeping of stewes, and resorting to them 1 Kin. 15. 12. And he (viz. Asa) took away the Sodomites out of the land, and removed all the Idols that his fathers had made. 2 King. 23. 7. And he (viz. Josiah) brake down the houses of the Sodomites that were by the houses of the Lord, where the women wove hangings for the grove. Deut. 23. 17, 18. There shall be no whore of the daughters of Israel, nor a Sodomite of the sons of Israel, V. 18.] Thou shalt not bring the hi [...]e of a whore, or the price of a dog into the house of the Lord thy God, for any vow: for even both these are an abomination unto the Lord thy God. Lev. 19. 29. Do not prostitute thy daughter, to cause her to be a whore, least the land fall to whoredom and become full of wickedness. Jer. 5. 7. How shall I pardon thee for this? thy children have forsaken me, and sworn by them that are no gods: when I had fed them to the full, they then comm [...]tted adultery, and assembled themselves by troopes in the harlots houses. Pro. 7. 24. 25, 26, 27. Hearken unto me now therefore, O ye children, and attend to the words of my mouth. V. 25.] Let not thine heart decline to her way [...]s, go not astray in her paths. V. 26.] For she hath cast down many wounded, yea many strong men have been slain by her. V. 27.] Her house is the way to hell, going down to the chambers of death.; intangling vowes of single life Mal. 19. 10, 11. His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to ma [...]ry. V. 11.] But he said unto them, all men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is give.; undue delay of marriage 1 Cor. 7. 7, 8, 9. For I would that all men were even as I my self; but every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, another after that. V. 8.] I say therefore to the unmarried and widowes, It is good for them if they abide even as I. V. 9.] But if they cannot contain, let them marry; for it is better to marry, then to burn, Gen. 38. 26. And Judah acknowledged them, and said, she hath been more righteous then I; because I gave her not to Shelah my son; and he knew her again no more., having more wives or husbands then one, at the same time Mal. 2. 14. 15. Yet ye say, Wherefore? because the Lord hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously; yet is sh [...] thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant. V. 15.] And did not he make one? yet had he the residue of the spirit; and wherefore one? that he might seek a godly seed; therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously; Mat. 19. 5. For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife, and they twain shall be one flesh.; unjust divorce Mal. 2. 16. For the Lord the God of Israel saith that he hateth putting away; for one covereth violence with his garment saith the Lord of hosts; therefore take heed to your spirits, that ye deal not treacherously. Mat. 5. 32. But I say unto you, that whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery; and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery., or disertion 1 Cor. 7. 12. 13. But to the rest I speak, not the Lord, If any brother hath a wife that believeth not and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away. V. 13.] And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, l [...]t her not leave him.; idleness, gluttony, drunkenness Ezek. 16. 49. Behold this was the iniquity of thy sister Sodom; pride fulness of bread, and abundance of idleness was in her, and her daughters; neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. Pro. 23. 30, 31.-33 —They that tarry long at the wine they that go to seek new wine. V. 31.] Look not upon the wine when it is red—V. 33.] Thine eyes shall behold strange women, and thy heart shall utter perverse things., unchast company Gen. 39. 10. And it came to pass as she spake to Joseph day by day, that he hearkned not unto her, to lie by her, or to be with her. Prov. 5. 8. Remove thy way far from her and come not neer the door of her house., lascivious songs, books, pictures, dancings, stage-playes Eph. 5. 4. —Neither filthiness, nor foolish, talking, nor jestings, which are not convenient, but rather giving of thanks. Ezek. 23. 14, 15, 16. And that she encreased her whoredom; for when she saw men pourtrayed upon the wall, the images of the Chaldeans pourtrayed with vermilion. V. 15.] Girded with girdles upon their loynes, exceeding in dyed attire upon their heads, all of them Princes to look to, after the manner of the Babylonians of Chalde, the land of their nativity. V. 16.] And as soon as she saw them with her eyes, she doted upon them, and sent messengers unto them into Caldea. Isai. 23. 15, 16, 17. And it shall come to pass in that day, that Tyre shall be forgotten 70 years, according to the dayes of one King: after the end of 70. years shall Tyre sing as an harlot. V. 16.] Take an Harp go about the city, thou harlot, thou hast been forgotten; make sweet melody, sing many songs that thou maist be remembred. V. 17.] And it shall come to pass after the end of 70. years, that the Lord, will visit Tyre, and she shall turn to her hire, and commit fornication with all the kingdoms of the world upon the face of the earth. Isal. 3. 16. Moreover, the Lord saith, Because the daughters of Sion are haughty, and walk with stretched forth necks, and wanton eyes, walking and mincing as they go, and making a tinckling with their feet. Mar. 6. 12. And when the daughter of the said Herodias came in, and danced and pleased Herod, and them that sat with him, the King said unto the damsel, Ask of me whatsoever thou wilt, and I will give it thee,—&c. Rom. 13. 13. Let us walk honestly, as in the day, not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambring and wantonness, not, &c. 1 Pet. 4. 3. For the time past of our life may suffice us to have wrought the will of the Gentiles, when we walked in lasciviousness, lusts, excess of wine, revellings banquettings, and abominable idolatries., and all other provocations to, or acts of uncleanness either in our selves or others 2 King. 9. 30. And when Jehu was come to Jezreel, Jezabel heard of it, and she painted her face, and tired her head, and looked out at a window. Compared with Jer. 4. 30. And when thou art spoiled, what wilt thou do? though thou cloathest thy self with crimson, though thou deckest thee with ornaments of gold, though thou rentest thy face with painting, in vain shalt thou make thy self fair; thy lovers will despise thee, they will seek thy life: and with Ezek. 23. 40. And furthermore, ye have sent for men to come from far, unto whom a messenger was sent; and lo they came for whom thou didst wash thy self, paintedst thine eyes, and deckedst thy self with ornaments..

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Q. Which is the eighth Commandment?

A. The eighth Commandment is, [Thou shalt not steal Exod. 20. 1 [...]..]

Q. What are the duties required in the eighth Commandment?

A. The duties required in the eighth Commandment, are, truth, faithfulnesse, and justice in contracts, and commerce between man and man Psal. 15. 2-4. He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart.—V. 4.] —he that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. Zech. 7. 4.-10. Then came the word of the Lord of hosts unto me, saying,—V. 10] And oppress not the widdow, nor the fatherless, nor the stranger, nor the poor, and let none of you imagine evil against his brother in your heart. Zech. 8. 16, 17. These are the things that ye shall do, Speak every man the truth to his neighbour, execute the judgement of truth and peace in your gates. V. 17.] And let none of you imagine evil in your hearts against his neighbour, and love no false oath, for all these are things that I hate, saith the Lord.; rendring to every one his due Rom. 13. 7. Render therefore to all their dues; tribute to whom tribute is due, custome to whom custome, fear to whom fear, honour to whom honour.; restitution of goods unlawfully detained from the right owners thereof Lev. 6. 2, 3. 4, 5. If a soul sin, and commit a trespass against the Lord, and lie to his neighbour in that which was delivered him to keep, or in fellowship, or in any thing taken away by violence, or hath deceived his neighbour; V: 3. Or have found that which was lost, and lieth concerning it, and sweareth falsely; in any of all these that a man doth, sinning therein: V. 4] Then it shall be because he hath sinned, and is guilty, that he shall restore that which he to [...]k violently, away, or [...]he thing which he hath deceitfully got [...]en, or that which was delivered him to keep, or the lost thing which he found. V. 5.] Or all that about which he hath sworn falsly; he shall even restore it in the principal, and shall add the fifth part more there [...]o, and give it unto him to whom it appertaineth, in the day of his Trespass offering. Compared with Luke 19. 8. And Zacheus stood and said unto the Lord, Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I hav [...] taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I res [...]ore him four fold.; [Page 250] giving, and lending freely, according to our abilities, and the necessities of others Luke 6. 30-38. Give to every man that asketh of thee, and of him that taketh away thy goods ask them not again.—V. 38.] Give, and it shall be given unto you, good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and runing over shall men give into your bosome; for with the same measure that you mete, it shall be measured to you again. 1 Joh. 3. 17. But whoso hath this worlds good, and seeth his brother hath need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? Eph. 4. 28. Let him that stole steal no more, but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. Gal. 6. 10. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them that are of the houshold of faith.; moderation of our judgements, wills, and affections, concerning wo [...]ldly goods 1 Tim. 6. 6, 7, 8, 9. But godliness with contentment is great gain. V. 7.] For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. V. 8] And having food and raiment, let us be therewith content. V. 9.] But they that will be rich fall into temptation, and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. Gal. 6. 14. But God forbid that I should glory save in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified to me, and I unto the world.; a provident care and study to get 1 Tim. 5. 8 But if any provide not for his own, espeically for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse then an infidel., keep, use, and dispose those things which are necessary and convenient for the sustentation of our nature, and suitable to our condition Pro. 27. from v. 23. to the end. Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds. V. 24.] For riches are not for ever,—&c. Eccles. 2 24. There is nothing better for a man, then that he should eat and drink, and make his soul enjoy good in his labour: This also I saw was from the hand of God. Eccl. 3. 12, 13. I know that there is no good in them, but for a man to rejoyce and do good in his life; V. 13.] And also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labours; it is the gift of God. 1 Tim. 6. 17, 18. Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy. V. 18.] That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate. Isa. 38. 1. In those dayes was Hezekiah sick unto death; and Isaiah the Prophet came to him, and said, Thus saith the Lord, Set thine house in order, for thou shalt die, and not live. Mat. 11. 8.—Behold, they that wea soft clothing are in kings houses.; a lawful calling 1 Cor. 7. 20. Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called. Gen. 2. 15. And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden, to dress it and to keep it. Gen. 3. 19. In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground, &c., and diligence in it Eph. 4. 28. Let him that stole, steal no more, but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. Pro. 10. 4. He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand; but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.; frugality Joh. 6. 12. When they were filled, he said unto his Disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost. Prov. 21. 20. There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwellings of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up., avoiding unnecessary law-suits 1 Cor. 6. from vers. 1. to vers. 9. Dare any of you having a matter against another, go to law before the unjust, and not before the Saints? —and so on., and suretiship, or other like ingagements Prov. 6. From verse 1. to ver. 6. My son if thou be surety for thy friend, if thou hast stricken thy hand with a stranger, thou art snared with the words of thy mouth, &c. —Prov. 11. 15. He that is surety for a stranger shall smart for it, and he that hateth suretiship is sure.; and an endeavour by all just, and lawful means, to procure, preserve, and further the wealth and outward [Page 251] estate of others, as well as our own Lev. 25. 35. And if thy brother be waxen poor, and fallen to decay with thee, then thou shalt relieve him, yea, though he be a stranger or a sojourner, that he may live with thee. Deut. 22. 1, 2, 3, 4. Thou shalt not see thy brothers ox, or his sheep go astray, and hide thy selfe from them; thou shalt in any case bring them back again unto thy brother. V. 2.] And if thy brother be not nigh unto thee, or if thou know him not, then thou shalt bring it unto thine own house, and it shall be with thee until thy brother seek after it, and thou shalt restore it to him again. V. 3.] In like manner shalt thou do with his Asse, and with his raiment, and with all lost things of thy brothers that thou hast found; thou maist not hide thy self. V. 4.] Thou shalt not see thy brothers ox or his assfall down by the way, and hide thy selfe from them; thou shalt surely help him to lift them up again. Exod. 23. 4, 5. If thou meet thine enemies ox or ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again. V. 5.] If thou see the ass of him that hateth thee lying under his burden, and wouldest forbear to help him, thou shalt surely help with him. Gen. 47. 14, 20. And Joseph gathered up all the money that was found in the land of Egypt, and Canaan, for the corn which they bought, and he brought the money into Pharaohs house.—V. 20.] And Joseph bought all the land of Egypt for Pharaoh; for the Egyptians sold every man his field, because the famine prevailed over them; so the land became Pharaoh's. Phil. 2. 4. Look not every man at his own things, but every man also upon the things of others. Mat. 22. 39. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thy self..

Q. What are the sins forbidden in the eighth Commandment?

A. The sins forbidden in the eighth Commandment, besides the neglect of the duties required Jam. 2. 15, 16. If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food. V. 16.] And one of you say to them, Depart in peace; be ye warmed, and filled; but give them not those things which are needful to the body, what doth it profit? 1 John 3. 17. But whoso hath this worlds good and seeth his brother hath need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? are, theft Eph. 4. 28. Let him that stole steal no more, but rather, &c.—, robbery Psal. 62. 10. Trust not in oppression, become not vain in robbery, &c., man stealing 1 Tim. 1. 10. [The law was made] For whoremongers, for defilers of themselves with mankind, for men stealers, for lyers, &c. and if there be any other thing contrary to sound doctrine., and receiving any thing that is stolne Pro. 29. 24. Whoso is partner with a thief hateth his own soul: he heareth cursing, and berayeth it not. Psal. 50. 18. When thou sawest a thief, thou consentedst with him, &c.; fraudulent dealing 1 Thes. 4. 6. That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter; because the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified., false weights and measures Prov. 11. 1. A false balance is an abomination to the Lord; but a just weight is his delight. Prov. 20. 10. Diverse weights, and diverse measures, both of them are alike abomination to the Lord., removing landmarks Deut. 19. 14. Thou shalt not remove thy neighbour's land-mark, which they of old time have set in thine inheritance, &c. Prov. 23. 10. Remove not the old land-mark; and enter not into the fields of the fatherless.; injustice and unfaithfulnesse in contracts between man and man Amos 8. 5.—Saying, When will the new Moon be gone, that we may sell corn; and the Sabbath, that we may set forth wheat; making the Ephah small, and the shekel great, and falsisying the balances by deceit? Psal. 37. 21. The wicked borroweth and payeth not again; but the righteous sheweth mercy and giveth., or in matters of trust Luk▪ 16. 10, 11, 12. He that is faithful in that which is least, is faithful also in much; and he that is unjust in the least, is unjust also in much. V. 11.] If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous Mammon, who will commit to your trust, the true riches? V. 12.] And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another mans, who shall give you that which is your own?; [Page 252] oppression Ezek. 22. 29. The people of the land have used oppression, and exercised robbery, and vexed the poor and needy; yea they have oppressed the stranger wrongfully. Lev. 25. 17. Ye shall not therefore oppresse one another; but thou shalt fear thy God: for I am the Lord your God., extortion Mat. 23. 25. Wo unto you Scribes and Pharisces, hypocrites; for ye make clean the outside of the cup and platter, but within they are full of extortion and excesse. Ezek. 22. 12. In thee have they taken gifts, to shed blood: thou hast taken usury and increase, and thou hast greedily gained of thy neighbours by extortion, and hast forgotten me, saith the Lord., usury Psal. 15 5. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh a reward against the innocent; he that, &c.—, bribery Job 15. 34. For the congregation of hypocrites shall be desolate, and fire shall consume the Tabernacle of bribery., vexatious law-suits 1 Cor. 6. 6, 7, 8. But brother goeth to law with brother, and that beofre the unbelievers. V. 7.] Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? Why do you not rather suffer your selves to be defrauded? V. 8.] Nay, you do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren. Prov. 3. 29, 30. Devise not evil against thy neighbour, seeing he dwelleth securely by thee. V. 30.] Strive not with a man without cause, if he have done thee no harm., unjust inclosures, and depopulations Isa. 5. 8. Wo unto them that join house to house, and lay field to field till there be no place, that they may be placed alone, in the midst of the earth. Meh. 2. 2. And they covel fields, and take them by violence; and houses, and take them away; so they oppresse a man and his house, even a man and his heritage.; ingrossing commodities to enhance the price Pro. 11. 26. He that withholdeth corn, the people shall curse him; but blessing shall be upon the head of him that selleth it., unlawful callings Act. 19. 19-24, 25. Many also of them which used curious arts, brought their books together, and burned them before all men; and they counted the price of them, and found it 50000 pieces of silver.—V. 24.] For a certain man named Demetrius, a Silver-smith, who made silver shrines for Diana, brought no small gain unto the Crafts-men. V. 25.] Whom he called together, with the workmen of like occupation, and said, Sirs, ye know that by this craft we have our wealth., and all other unjust, or sinfull wayes of taking, or with-holding from our neighbour what belongs to him, or of inriching our selves Job 20. 19. Because he hath oppressed and forsaken the poor, because he hath violently taken away an house which he built not. Jam. 5. 4. Behold the hire of the labourers which have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, cryeth; and the cryes of them which have reaped are entred into the ears of the Lord of Sabbath. Prov. 21. 6. The getting of treasures by a lying tongue, is a vanity tossed too and fro of them that seek death.: covetousnesse Luk. 12. 15. And he said unto them, Take heed, and bewere of covetousnesse: for a mans life consisteth not in the abundance of the things that he possesseth., inordinate prizing and affecting worldly goods 1 Tim. 6. 5. Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godlinesse: from which withdraw thy self. Col. 3. 2. Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth. Prov. 23. 5. Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings: they flee away as an Eagle towards heaven. Psal. 62. 10. —If riches increase, set no your heart upon them.; distrustful and distracting cares and studies in getting▪ keeping, and using them Mat. 6. 25.-31.-34. Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what she shall drink, nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on; is not the life more then meat? and the body then raiment?—V. 31.] Therefore take no thought, saying, what shall we cat? or, &c.—V. 34.] Take therefore no thought for the morrow; for the morrow shall take thought for the things of it self; sufficient to the day is the evil thereof. Eccl. 5. 12. The sleep of a labouring man is sweet, whether he eat little or much; but the abundance of the rich will not suffer him to sleep., envying at the prosperity of others [Page 253] Psal. 73. 3. For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. Psal. 37. 1-7. Fret not thy self because of evil doers, nor be thou envious against the workers of iniquity—V. 7.] Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him; fret not thy self because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.: as likewise idleness 2 Thes. 3. 11. For we hear that there are some who walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busie-bodies. Pro. 18. 9. He also that is slothful in his work, is brother to him that is a great waster,, prodigality, wastful gaming, and all other wayes whereby we do unduly prejudice our own outward estate Prov. 21. 17. He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man; he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich. Prov. 23. 20, 21. Be not among wine bibbers, among riotous eaters of flesh. V. 21▪] For the drunkard and glutton shall come to poverty, and drowsiness shall cloth a man with rags Prov. 28. 19. He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread: but he that followeth after vain persons shall have poverty enough.: and defrauding our selves of the due use and comfort of that estate which God hath given us Eccl. 4. 8. There is one alone, and there is not a second, yea he hath neither child nor brother; yet there is no end of all his labour, nor is his eye satisfied with riches, neither saith he, For whom do I labour, and bereave my soul of good? This is also vanity? yea it is a sore evil. Eccl. 6. 2. A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth and honour, so that he wanteth nothing for his soul of all that he desireth, yet God giveth him not power to eat thereof; but a stranger eateth it. This is vanity, and an evil disease. 1 Tim. 5. 8. But if any [...]ovide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse then an infidel..

Q. Which is the ninth Commandment?

A. The ninth Commandment is, [Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour Exod. 20. 16..]

Q. What are the duties required in the ninth Commandment?

A. The duties required in the ninth Commandment are, the preserving and promoting of truth between man and man Z [...]ch. 8. 16. These are the things that ye shall do, Speak every man truth to his neighbour, execute the judgement of truth and peace in your gates., and the good name of our neighbour as well as our own 3 John ver. 12. Demetrius hath a good report of all men, and of the truth it self; yea, and we also bear record; and ye know that our record is true.: appearing, and standing for Prov. 31. 8, 9. Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor. V. 9.] Open thy mouth for the dumb, in the cause of all such as are appointed to destruction., and from the heart Psal. 15. 2. He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousnesse, and speaketh the truth from his heart., sincerely 2 Chron. 19. 9. And he charged them, saying, Thus shall ye do in the fear of the Lord, faithfully, and with a perfect heart., freely 1 Sam. 19. 4, 5. And Jonathan spake good of David unto Saul his father, and said unto him, Let not the King sin against his servant, against David; because he hath not sinned against thee, and because his works to thee-ward have been very good. V. 5.] For he did put his life in his hand, and slew the Philistine, and the Lord wrought great salvation for all Israel: thou sawest it, and didst rejoyce. Wherefore then wilt▪ thou sin against innocent blood, to slay David without a cause?, [Page 254] cleerly Jos. 7. 19. And Josu [...]h said unto Achan, My son, give I pray thee, glory to the Lord God of Israel, and make confession unto him, and tell me now what thou hast done; hide it not from me., and fully 2 Sam. 14. 18, 19, 20. Then the King answered, and said unto the woman, Hide not from me, I pray thee the thing that I shall ask thee. And the woman said, Let my Lord the King now speak. V. 19.] And the King said, Is not the hand of Joab with thee in all this? and the woman answered and said, As thy soul liveth, my Lord the King, none can turn to the right hand or to the left, from ought that my Lord the King hath spoken, for thy servant Joab he bad me, and he put all these words in the mouth of thine hand-maid; V. 20.] To fetch about this forme of speech, hath thy servant Joab done this thing; and my Lord is wise, &c.—, speaking the truth, and onely the truth, in matters of judgement and justice Lev. 19. 15. Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgement: thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty, but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbour. Prov. 14. 5-25. A faithfull witness will not lye, but a false witness will utter lyes. V. 25.] A true witness delivereth soules, but a deceitful witness speaketh lyes., and in all other things whatsoever 2 Cor. 1. 17, 18. When I therefore was thus minded, did I use lightness? or the things that I purpose, do I purpose according to the flesh, that with me there should be yea▪ yea, and nay, nay? V. 18.] But as God is true, our word toward you was not yea and nay. Eph. 4. 25. Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.; a charitable esteem of our neighbours Heb. 6. 9. But beloved, we are perswaded better things of you, and things that accompany Salvation. 1 Cor. 13. 7. [Charity] beareth all things, beleeveth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things.; loving, desiring, and rejoycing in their good name Rom. 1. 8. First I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. 2 Joh. ver. 4.] I rejoyce greatly that I found of thy children walking in the truth, as we have received a Commandment from the father. 3 Joh. ver. 3, 4.] For I rejoyced greatly when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth. V. 4.] I have no greater joy, then to hear that my children walk in the truth., sorrowing for 2 Cor. 2. 4. For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote to you, with many teares; not that you should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly towards you. 2 Cor. 12. 21.—And least when I come again my God will humble me among you, and that I shall bewail many, who have sinned already, and have not repented of the uncleanness, and fornication, and lasciviousness which they have committed., and covering of their infirmities Prov. 17. 9. He that covereth a transgression seeketh love; but he that repeateth a matter separateth very friends. 1 Pet. 4▪ 8. And above all things have f [...]rvent charity among your selves; for charity shall cover a multitude of sins; freely acknowledging their gifts and graces 1 Cor. 1. 4, 5.-7. I thank my God alwayes in your behalfe for the grace of God which is given by Jesus Christ. V. 5.] That in every thing ye are enriched by him in all utterance, and in all knowledge—V. 7.] So that ye come behind in no gift, waiting for the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ. 2 Tim. 1. 4, 5—Greatly desiring to see thee being mindful of thy teares, that I may b [...] filled with joy. V. 5.] When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy Grand▪mother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am perswaded that in thee also.; defending their innocency 1 Sam. 22. 14. Then Ahimelech answered the King and said, And who is so faithful among all thy servants as David, which is the Kings-son-in-law, and goeth at thy bidding, and is honorable in thy house?; a ready receiving of a good report 1 Cor. 13. 6, 7. [Charity] rejoyceth not in in [...]quity, but rejoyceth in the truth; V. 7.] Beareth all things, beleeveth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things., and unwillingness to admit of an evil report [Page 105] concerning them Psal. 15. 3. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour., discouraging tale-bearers Prov. 25. 23. The North wind driveth away rain: so doth an angry countenance a b [...]ckbiting tongue., flatterers Prov. 26. 24, 25. He that hateth dissembleth with his lips, and layeth up deceit within him: v. 25.] When he speaketh fair, believe him not, for there are seven abominations in his heart., and slanderers Psal. 101. 5. Who so privily slandereth his neighbour, him will I cut off, &c.; love and care of our own good name, and defending it when need requireth Prov. 22. 1. A good name is rather to be chosen then great riches; and loving favour then silver and gold. Joh. 8. 49. Jesus answered, I have not a devil: but I honour my Father, and ye do dishonour me., keeping of lawful promises Psal. 15. 4.—He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not., studying and practising of whatsoever things are true, honest, lovely, and of good report Phil. 4. 8. Finally, brethren, Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report, if there be any vertue, and if there be any praise, think on these things..

Q What are the sins forbidden in the ninth Commandment?

A. The sins forbidden in the ninth Commandment, are, all prejudicing the truth, and the good name of our neighbours as well as our own 1 Sam. 17, 28. E [...]iab his elder brother heard when he spake unto the men; and Eliabs▪ anger was kindled against David, and he said, why camest thou down hither, and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know thy pride, and the haughtiness of thy heart, &c. 2 Sam. 16. 3. And the King said, and where is thy masters son? And Ziba said to the King, behold he abideth at Jerusalem: for he said, To day shall the house of Israel restore me the Kingdom of my father. 2 Sam. 1. 9, 10-15, 16. He said unto me again, stand I pray thee, upon me, and slay me; for anguish is come upon me, because my life is yet whole in me. v. 10.] So I stood upon him, and sl [...]w him, because I was sure that he could not live, after that he was fallen; and I took the crown that was on his head, and the bracelets from his arm, and have brought them hither to my lord.—v. 15.] And David called one of the young men, and said, go fall upon him. And he smote him, that he died. v. 16.] And David said unto him, thy blood is upon thy head; for thy mouth hath testified against thee, saying, I have slain the Lords anointed., especially in publick judicature Lev. 19. 15. Ye shall do no unrighteousness in judgment; thou shalt not respect the person of the poor, nor honour the person of the mighty, but in righteousness shalt thou judge thy neighbour. Hab. 1. 4. Therefore the law is sla [...]ked, and judgment doth never go forth; for the wicked doth compass about the righteous; therefore wrong judgment proceedeth., giving false evidence Prov. 19. 5. A false witness shall not be unpunished, and he that speaketh lyes shall not escape. Prov 6 16.-19. There are six things which the Lord hateth, yea seven are an abomination unto him—v. 19.] A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren., suborning false witnesses Act. 6. 13. And they set up false witness, who said, This man ceaseth not to speak blasphemous words against this holy place and the Law., wittingly appearing and pleading for an evil cause, outfacing [Page 106] & over-bearing the truth Jer. 9. 3-5. And they bend their tongue like their bow, for lyes: but they are not valiant for the truth upon the earth: for they proceed from evil to evil, and know not me, saith the Lord.—v. 5.] And they will deceive every one his neighbour, and will not speak the truth; they have taught their tongue to speak lies, and weary themselves to commit iniquity. Act. 24. 2-5. And when he was called forth, Tertullus begun to accuse him saying, &c.—v. 5.] For we have found this man a pestilent fellow, and a mover of sedition amongst all the Jews throughout the world, and a ring-leader of the sect of the N [...]zarens. Psal. 12. 3, 4. The lord shall cut off all flattering lips, & the tongue that speaketh proud things, v. 4.] Who have said, with our tongues we will prevail, our lips are our own; who is Lord over us? Ps. 52. 1, 2, 3, 4. Why boastest thou thy self in mischief, O thou mighty man? the goodness of God endureth continually. v. 2.] Thy tongue deviseth mischief, like a sharp razor, working deceitfully. v. 3.] Thou lovest evil more then good, & lying rather then to speak righteousness, Selah. v. 4.] Thou lovest all devouring words, O thou deceitful tongue., passing unjust sentence Prov. 17. 15. He that justified the wicked, and he that condemneth the just, even they both are abomination unto the Lord. 1 King. 21. from ver. 9. to the 14. And Jezebel wrote in the letter, saying, Proclaim a fast, and set Naboth on high, and set two men, sons of Belial, before him to bear witness against him, saying, Thou didst blaspheme God and the King; and then carry him out & stone him. v. 11.] And the men of the city even the Elders and the Nobles did so as Jezebel had sent unto them.—And they stoned him with stones that he died., calling evil good, & good evil, rewarding the wicked according to the work of the righteous, and the righteous according to the work of the wicked Isai. 5. 23. Who justify the wicked for a reward, & take away the righteousness of the righteous from him; forgery Psal. 119. 69. The proud have forged a lye against me: but I will keep, &c. Luke 19. 8. And Zacheus stood and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man, by false accusation, I restore him four-fold. Luke 16. 5, 6, 7. So he called every one of his Lords debtors unto him, and said unto the first, how much owest thou unto my Lord? v. 6.] And he said an hundred measures of oil. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and write fifty. v. 7.] Then said he to another, &c., concealing the truth, undue silence in a just cause Lev. 5. 1. And if a Soul sin, and hear the voice of swearing, and is a witness whether he hath seen or known of it, if he do not utter it, then he shall bear his iniquity. Deut. 13. 8.—Thou shalt not consent unto him, nor hearken unto him, nor shall thine eye pity him, nor shalt thou spare, nor shalt thou [...]onceal him. Act. 5. 3-8, 9. But Peter said, Ananias, why hath Satan filled thy heart, to lye to the Holy Ghost, and to keep back part of the price of the land? v. 8.] And Peter answered unto her, tell me whether you sold the land for so much; And she said yea, for so much. v. 9.] Then Peter said unto her, How is it that ye have agreed together, to temp the Spirit of the Lord? Behold the feet of, &c.—2 Tim. 4. 16. At my first answer, no man stood with me, but all men forsook me. I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge., & holding our peace when iniquity calleth for either a reproof from our selves 1 King. 1. 6. And his father had not displeased him at any time in saying, why hast thou done so? Lev. 19. 17. Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy brother, and not suffer sin upon him., or complaint to others Isai. 59. 4. None called for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth; they trust in vanity, and speaklyes; they conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity.; speaking the truth unseasonably Prov. 19. 11. A fool uttereth all his mind; but a wise man keepeth it till afterwards., or maliciously to a wrong end 1 Sam. 12. 9, 10. Then answered Doeg the Edomite who was set over the servants of Saul, and said, I saw the son of Jesse coming to Noh, to Abimelech the son of Ahitub. v. 10.] And he enquired of the Lord for him, and gave him victuals, and the sword of Goliah the Philistim. Compared with Psal. 52. 1, 2, 3, 4. A Psalm of David when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul, &c.—v. 1.] Why boastest thou thy self in mischief, O mighty man? the goodness of God, &c. and so on to v. 5., or perverting it to a wrong meaning Psal. 56▪ 6. Every day they wrest my words; all their thoughts are against me for evil. Joh. 2. 19. Jesus answered, and said unto them, Destroy this Temple, & in three dayes I will raise it up. Compared with Matt. 26. 60, 61—At the last came two false witnesses. v. 61] And said, This follow said, I am able to destroy the Temple of God, and to build it in three dayes., [Page 107] or in doubtful and equivocal expressions to the prejudice of truth or justice Gen. 3. 5. For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as Gods knowing good and evil. Gen. 26. 7-9. And the men of the place asked him of his wife, and he said, She is my sister; for he feared to say she is my wife, lest, &c., speaking untruth Isai. 59. 13. In transgressing and lying against the Lord, and departing away from our God, speaking oppression and revolt, conceiving and uttering from the heart words of falshood., lying Lev. 19. 11. Ye shall not steal, nor deal falsly, nor lie one to another. Col. 3. 9. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds., slandering Psal. 50. 20. Thou sittest and speakest against thy brother, thou slanderest thine own mothers son., backbiting Psal. 15. 3. He that backhiteth not with his tongue, nor doth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour., detracting Jam. 4. 11. Speak not evil one of another, Brethren, he that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth rhe law; but if thou judg the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge. Jer. 38. 4. Therefore the Princes said unto the King, we beseech thee let this man be put to death, for thus he weakeneth the hands of the men of war that remain in the city, and of all the people, in speaking such words unto them; for this man seeketh not the welfare of this people, but the hurt., tale-bearing Lev. 19. 16. Thou shalt not go up and down as a tale bearer among thy people, neither shalt thou stand against the good of thy neighbour. I am the Lord., whispering Rom. 1. 29, 30. Bring filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness, full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity, whisperers, v. 30.] Back-biters, haters of God, &c., scoffing Gen. 21. 6. And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, which she had born unto Abraba [...], mocking. Compared with Gal. 4. 29. But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now., reviling 1 Cor. 6. 10. Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor revilers, nor drunkards, nor extortioners, shall inherit the Kingdom of God., rash Matt. 7. 1. Judge not, that ye be not judged., harsh Act. 28. 4. No doubt, this man is a murderer; whom though he hath escaped the sea, yet vengeance suffereth not to live., and partial censuring Gen. 38 24. And it came to pass about three months after, that it was told Judah, saying, Thamar thy daughter in law hath played the harlot, and also behold, she is with child by whoredom; and Judah said, Bring her forth, and let her be burnt. Rom. 2. 1. Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest; for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thy self, for thou that judgest doth the same things., misconstruing intentions, words and actions Neh. 6. 6, 7, 8. In which [letter that Sanballat sent] was written, it is reported among the heathen, and Cashmu saith it, that thou and the Jews think to rebel, for which cause thou buildest the wall, that thou maist be their King, according to these words. v. 7.] And thou hast also appointed Prophets to preach of thee at Jerusalem, saying, There is a King in Judah, and now shall it be reported to the King, according to these words, Come now therefore, and let us take counsel together v. 8.] Then I sent unto him saying, There are no such things done as thou saist, but thou fainest [...]hem out of thine own heart. Rom. 3. 8. And not rather, as we be slanderously reported, and as some affirm that we say, Let us do evil that good may come, whose damnation is just. Psal. 69. 10. When I wept and chastened my Soul with fasting, that was to my reproach. 1 Sam. 1. 13, 14, 15. Now Hannah she spake in the heart, only her lips moved, but her voice was not heard: therefore Eli thought she had been drunken. v. 14.] And Eli said unto her, How long wilt thou be drunken? put away thy wine from thee. v. 15.] And Hannah answered and said, No, my Lord, I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit, I have drunk neither wine, &c. 2 Sam. 10. 3. And the Princes of the children of Amm [...]n said unto H [...]nun their Lord, Thinkest thou that David doth honour thy father, that he h [...]h sen [...] comfor [...]ers unto thee? hath not David rather sent his servant unto thee to search the city, and to s [...]y it out, [...]n [...] to overthrow it?, flattering Psal. 12. 2, 3. They speak vanity every ma [...] with his neighbour, with flattering lips, and with a double heart doth he speak. v. 3.] The Lord shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things., vain-glorious boasting 2 Tim. 3. 2. For men shall be lovers of themselves, covetou [...], ho [...]sters &c., thinking or speaking too highly or too [Page 108] meanly of our selves or others Luk▪ 18. 9-11. And he spake this Parable to certain that trusted in themselves, That they were righteous, and despised others.—v. 11] And the Pharisee stood up, and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. Rom. 12. 16. —Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate; be not wise in your own conceits. 1 Cor. 4. 6. And these things, brethren, I have in a figure transferred to my selfe, and to Apollo, for your sakes: that you might learn of us not to think of men, above that which is written, that no one of you be puffed up for one against another. Act. 12. 22. And the people gave a shout, saying, It is the voice of God, and not of man! Exod. 4. 10, 11, 12, 13, 14. And Moses said, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant; but am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue. v. 11.] And the Lord said unto him, Who hath made the mouth? or who maketh the dumb, or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind? have not I the Lord? v. 12.] Now therefore go, and I will be with thy mouth, and teach thee what thou shalt say. v. 13] And he said, O my Lord, send, I pray thee, by the hand of him, whom thou wilt send. v. 14.] And the anger of the Lord was kindled against Moses, &c., denying the gifts and graces of God Job▪ 7▪ 5, 6. God forbid that I should justifie you; till I dye I will not remove mine integrity from me. v. 6.] My righteousness I will hold fast, and not let it go; my heart shall not reproach me as long as I live. Job 4. 6. Is not this thy fear, thy confidence, the uprightness of thy wayes, and thy hope?, aggravating smaller faults Mat. 7. 3, 4, 5. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brothers eye, but considerest not the beam which is in thine own eye? v. 4.] Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out, &c.? v. 5.] Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye, and then thou shalt see cleerly to cast out the more out of thy brothers eye. hiding, excusing, or extenuating of sins when called to a free confession Prov. [...]8. 13. He that covereth his sins shall not prosper; but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shal find mercy. Prov. 30. 20. Such is the way of an adulterous woman; she eateth, and wipeth her mouth and saith, I have done no wickedness. Gen. 3. 12, 13. And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me she gave me of the tree and I did eat. v. 13.]—and the woman said, The Serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. Jer. 2. 35. Yet thou saist, Because I am innocent, surely his anger shall turn from me: behold I will plead with thee, because thou saist, I have not sinned. 2 Kin. 5. 25.—and Elisha said to him, Whence comest thou Gehazi? And he said. Thy servant went no whither. Gen. 4. 9. And the Lord said unto Cain, where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not; Am I my brothers keeper?, unnecessary discovering of infirmities Gen. 9. 22. And Cham the father of Canaan saw the wickedness of his father, and told his two brethren without. Prov. 25. 9, 10. Debate thy cause with thy neighbour himself, and discover not a secret to another. v. 10.] Lest he that heareth it put thee to shame, and thine infamy turn not away., raising false rumours Exod. 23. 1. Thou shalt not raise a false report: put not thy hand with the wicked to be an unrighteous witness., receiving and countenancing evil reports Prov. 29. 12. If a Ruler hearken to lies, all his servants are wicked., and stopping our eares against just defence Act. 7. 56, 57. And Stephen said, Behold, I see the heavens opened, and the Son of man standing at the right hand of God. v. 57.] Then they cryed out with a loud voice, and stopped their ears, and ran upon him with one accord. Iob 31. 13, 14. If I did despise the cause of my man-servant, or maid-servant, when they contended with me; v. 14.] What then shall I do, when God riseth up? and when he visiteth, what shall I answer him?, evil suspition 1 Cor. 13. 5. [Charity] doth not behave it self unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil. 1 Tim. 6. 4. He is proud; knowing nothing, but doting about questions, and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings., envying or grieving at the deserved credit of any Num. 11. 29. And Moses said unto him, Enviest thou for my sake? Would God that all the Lords people were Prophets, and that the Lord would pour out his Spirit upon them. Mat. 21. 15. And when the chief Priests and Scribes saw the wonderful things that he did, and the children crying in the Temple, and saying, Hosanna to the Son of David, they were sore displeased, endeavouring or desiring [Page 109] to impair it Ezra 4. 11, 13. Be it known unto the King, that the Jewes who came up from thee to us, are come unto Jerusalem, building the rebellious and bad city, and have set up the walls, &c. v. 13.] Be it known now unto the King, that if this City be built, and the walls set up again, they will not pay tole, tribute, and custome, and so thou shalt endamage the revenue of the Kings., rejoicing in their disgrace and infamy Jer. 48: 27. For was not Israel a derision unto thee? was he found among thieves? for since thou spakest of him, thou skippest for joy., scornful contempt Psal. 35. 15, 16.-21. But in mine adversity they rejoiced, and gathered themselves together; yea, the abjects gathered themselves together, &c.—v. 16.] which hypocritical mockers in feasts they gnashed upon me with their teeth.—v. 21.] Yea they opened their mouth wide against me, and said, Aha, Aha, our eye hath seen it. Mat. 27. 28, 29. And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe. v. 29.] And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they put it on his head, and a reed in his right hand, and they bowed the knee before him, and said, Hail, King of the Jewes., fond admiration Jude v. 16. These are murmurers, complainers, walkers after their own lusts, and their mouth speaks great swelling words, having mens persons in admiration because of advantage. Act. 12. 22. And the people gave a great shout, saying, It is the voice of a God, and not of a man!, breach of lawful promises Rom. 1. 31. Without understanding, Covenant-breakers, &c. 2 Tim. 3. 3. Without natural affection, Truce breakers, false accusers, &c., neglecting such things as are of good report 1 Sam. 2. 24. Nay my sons; for it is no good report that I hear, ye make the Lords people to transgress▪, and practising or not avoiding our selves, or not hindring, what we can in others, such things as procure an ill name 2 Sam. 13. 12, 13. And she [Tamar] answered Amnon, Nay, my brother, do not force me: for no such thing ought to be done in Israel; do not thou this folly▪ v. 13.] And I, whither shall I cause my shame to go? And as for thee, thou shalt be as one of the fools in Israel; now therefore, &c. —Prov. 5. 8, 9. Romove thy way far from her, and come not nigh the door of her house. v. 9.] Lest thou give thine honour unto others, and thy years unto the cruel. Prov. 6. 33. A wound and dishonour shall he get, and his reproach shall not be wiped away..

Q. Which is the tenth Commandment?

A. The tenth Commandment is [Thou shalt not covet thy neighbours house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbours wife, nor his man-servant, nor his maid-servant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbours Exod. 20. 17..]

Q. VVhat are the duties required in the tenth Commandment?

A. The duties required in the tenth Commandment are, such a full contentment with our own condition Heb. 13. 5. Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have; for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 1 Tim. 6. 6. But Godliness with contentment is great gain., and such a charitable frame of the whole Soul toward our neighbour, as that all our inward motions and affections [Page 110] touching him tend unto and further all that good which is his Job 31. 29. If I rejoiced at the destruction of him that hated me, or lift up my self when evil found him. Rom. 12. 15. Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Psal. 122. 7, 8, 9. Peace be within thy walls, & prosperity within thy palaces. v. 8.] For my brethren and companions sake, I will now say, Peace be within thee. v. 9.] Because of the house of the Lord our God, I will seek thy good. 1 Tim. 1. 5. Now the end of the Commandment is Charity, out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned. Esth. 10. 3. For Mordecai the Jew was next unto King Ahasuerus, and great among the Jews, and accepted of the multitude of his brethren, seeking the wealth of his people, and speaking peace to all his seed. 1 Cor. 13. 4, 5, 6, 7. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not her self, is not puffed up. v. 5.] Doth not behave is self unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil. v. 6.] Rejoiced not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth. v. 7.] Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things..

Q. What are the sins forbidden in the tenth Commandment?

A. The sins forbidden in the tenth Commandment, are, discontentment with our own estate 1 King. 11. 4. And Ahab came into his house heavy and displeased, because of the word which Naboth had spoken to him; for he had said, I will not give thee the inheritance of my fathers; and he laid him down upon his bed, and turned away his face, and would eat no bread. Esth. 5. 13. Yet all this availeth me nothing, so long as I see Mordecai the Jew sitting at the Kings gate. 1 Cor. 10. 10. Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.; envying Gal. 5. 26. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. Jam. 3. 14-16. But if you have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lye not against the truth.—v. 16. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion, and every evil work., and grieving at the good of our neighbours Psal. 112. 9, 10. He hath dispers [...]th, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth for ever, his horn shall be exalted for ever. v. 10.] The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: the desire of the wicked shall perish. Neh. 2. 10. When Sanballat the Horonite, and Tobiah the servant the Ammonite heard of it, it grieved them exceedingly, that there was come a man to seek the welfare of the children of Israel., together with all inordinate motions and affections to any thing that is his Rom. 7. 7, 8. What 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. v. 8.] But sin taking occasion by the Commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence; for without the law sin was dead. Rom. 13. 9. For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other Commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thy self. Col. 3. 5. Mortifie therefore your members which are upon the earth, fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry. Deut. 5. 21. Neither shalt thou desire thy neighbours wife, nor shalt thou covet thy neighbours house, his field, his man-servant, or his maid-servant, his ox, or his ass, or any thing that is thy neighbours..

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Q. Is any man able perfectly to keep the Commandments of God?

A. No man is able, either of himself Jam. 3. 2. For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. Joh. 15. 5. 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. 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, condemneth sin in the flesh., or by any grace received in this life, perfectly to keep the Commandements of God Eccl. 7. 20. For there is not a just man upon earth, that doth good, and sinneth not. Joh. 1. 8-10▪ If we say that we have no sin, we deceive our selves, and the truth is not in us.—v. 10.] If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. Gal. 5. 17. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary the one to the other: So that ye cannot do the things that ye would. Rom. 7. 18, 19. For I know that in me, that is, in my flesh, dwelleth no good thing. For to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. v. 19.] For the good that I would, I do not; but the evil that I would not, that do I., but doth daily break them in thought Gen. 6. 5. And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was onely evil continually. Gen. 8. 21.—And the Lord said in his heart, I will curse the ground no more for mans sake: for the imagination of mans heart is evil from his youth, &c., word, and deed Rom. 3. from ver. 9. to ver. 21.—for we have before proved that both Jewes and Gentiles that they are under sin. v. 10.] As it is written, There is none righteous, no not one. v. 11.] There is none that under standeth, there is none that seeketh after God. v. 12.] They are all gone out of the way, they are altogether become unprofitable; there is none that doth good, no not one. v. 13.] Their throat is an open sepulchre, &c.—v. 20.]—that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. Jam. 3. from ver. 2. to ver. 13. For in many things we offend all, &c.—.

Q. Are all transgressions of the Law of God equally hainous in themselves, and in the sight of God?

A. All transgressions of the Law of God are not equally hainous: but some sins in themselves, and by reason of several aggravations, are more hainous in the sight of God then others Joh. 19. 11. Jesus answered, Thou coulst have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above; therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin. Ezek. 8. 6.-13.-15. But turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater abominations.—v. 13.] Turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater abominations that they do.—v. 15.] Turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater abominations then these. 1 Joh. 5. 16. If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it. Psal. 78. 17.-32.-56. And they sinned yet more against him, by provoking the most High in the wilderness.—v. 32.]. For all this they sinned still, &c.—v. 56.] Yet they tempted, and provoked the most high God, and kept not his testimonies..

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Q. What are those aggravations which make some sins more hainous then others?

A. Sins receive their aggravations,

From the persons offending Jer. 2. 8. The Priests said not, Where is the Lord? and they that handle the Law knew me not; the Pastors also transgressed against me, and the Prophets prophesied by Baal, and walked after things that do not profit.; if they be of riper age Job 32. 7.-9. I said, Dayes should speak, multitude of yeares should teach wisdom.—v. 9.] Great men are not alwayes wise, neither do the aged understand judgment. Eccl. 4. 13. Better is a poor and a wise child, then an old and foolish King, who will no more be admonished., greater experience, or grace 1 King. 11. 4.-9. For it came to pass when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods, &c.—v. 9.] And the Lord was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned from the Lord God of Israel, which had appeared to him twice.; eminent for profession 2 Sam. 12. 14. Howbeit, because by this deed thou hast given great occasion to the enemies of the Lord to blaspheme, the childe that is born unto thee shall surely dye. 1 Cor. 5. 1. It is reported commonly, that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his fathers wife., gifts Jam. 4. 17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doth it not, to him it is sin. Luk. 12. 47, 48. And that servant that knew his masters will, and prepared not himselfe, nor did accordingly, shall be beaten with many stripes. v. 48.] But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whom much is given, of him shall be much required; and to whom men have committed much, of them they will ask the more., place Jer. 5. 4, 5. Therefore I said, Surely these are poor, they are foolish, they know not the way of the Lord, nor the judgment of their God. v. 5.] I will get me unto the great men, and will speak unto them; for they have known the way of the Lord, and the judgment of their God; but these have altogether broken the yoke, and burst the bands., office 2 Sam. 12. 7, 8, 9. And Nathan said unto David, Thou art the man. Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, I anointed thee King over Israel, &c.—v. 8.] And I gave thee thy masters house, and his wives into thy bosome, and gave thee the house of Israel and Judah; and if that had been too little, I would moreover have given thee such and such things. v. 9] Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the Lord, to do evil in his sight? &c. Ezek. 8. 11, 12. And there stood before them seventy men of the ancients of the house of Israel, and in the midst of them stood Jaazaniah the son of Shaphan, with every man his Censer in his hand; and a thick cloud of incense went up. v. 12.] Then said he unto me, Son of man, hast thou seen what the ancients of the house of Israel do in the dark, every man in the chamber of his imagery? For they say, The Lord seeth us not; the Lord hath forsaken the earth.; guides to others Rom. 2. from ver. 17. to ver. 25. Behold thou art called a Jew, and restest in the Law, and makest thy boast of God, v. 18.] And knowest his will, &c.—v. 19.] And art confident that thou thy self art a guide to the blind, a light of them which are in darkness, &c.—v. 21.] Thou therefore that teachest another, teachest thou not thy self? Thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal? &c.—, and whose example is likely to be followed by others Gal. 2. 11, 12, 13, 14, But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. v. 12.] For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles; but when they were come, he withdrew, and separated himself, fearing them which were of the Circumcision. v. 13.] And the other Jewes dissemble likewise with him, insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation. v. 14.] But when I saw that they walked not up [...]ightly according to the truth of the Gospel, I said unto Peter before them all, If thou being a Jew, livest after the manner of the Gentiles, and not as do the Jewes, why compellest thou the Gentiles to live as do the Jewes?

From the parties offended Mat. 2. 38, 39. But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among themselves, This is the heir, come let us kill him, and seize on his inheritance. v. 39.] And they caught him, and cast him out of the Vineyard, and slew him.; if immediately against [Page 113] God 1 Sam. 2. 25. If one man sin against another, the Judg shall judg him; but if a man sin against the Lord, who shall entreat for him? &c. Act. 5.-4 Thou hast not lyed unto men, but unto God. Psa. 51. 4. Against thee, thee only have I sinned and done this evil in thy sight; that thou mightest be justified when thou speakest, and be clear when thou judgest., his attributes Rom. 2. 4. Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness, and forbearance, and long-suffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?, and worship Mal. 1. 8.-14. And if ye offer the blind for a sacrifice is it not evil? and if ye offer the lame, and sick, is it not evil? offer it now to thy governour, &c.—v. 14.] But cursed be the deceiver which hath in his flock a male, and voweth and sacrificeth unto the Lord a corrupt thing: for I am a great King, saith the Lord of hosts, and my Name is dreadful among the heathen.; against Christ, and his grace Heb. 2. 2, 3. For if the word spoken by Angels was stedfast, and every transgressing and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; v. 3. How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation? Heb. 12. 25. See that ye refuse not him that speaketh: for if they escaped not, who refused him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven.; the holy Spirit Heb. 10. 29. Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he [...]e thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the Covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despight unto the Spirit of grace? Mat. 12. 31, 32. Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men. v. 32] And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man it shall be forgiven him, but whosoever speaketh a word against the holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, nor in the world to come. his witness Eph. 4. 30. And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of Redemption. and workings Heb. 6. 4, 5. For it is impossible for those who were once inlightned, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the holy Ghost, v. 5.] And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come; If they fall away, to renew them again unto rep [...]ntan [...]e, &c.—, against superiors, men of eminency Jude ver. 8. Likewise also these filthy dreamers defile the flesh, despise dominion, and speak evil of dignities. Num. 12. 8, 9.—Wherefore then were ye not afraid to speak against my servant Moses? v. 9.] And the anger of the Lord was kindled against them, and he departed. Isa. 3. 5.—the child shall behave himself proudly against the ancient, and the base against the honourable▪ and such as we stand especially related and engaged unto Prov. 30. 17. The eye that mocketh at his father, and despiseth to obey his mother, the Ravens of the valleys shall pick it out, and the young Eagles shall eat it. 2 Cor. 12. 15. And I will very gladly spend and be spent for you, though the more abundantly I love you, the less I be loved. Psal. 55. 12, 13, 14, 15. For it was not an enemy that reproached me, then I could have born it: neither was it he that hated me, that did magnifie himself against me, then I would have hid my self from him. v. 13.] But it was thou, a man, mine equal, my guide, and my acquaintance. v. 14.] We took secret counsel together, and walked, &c. v. 15.] Let death seize upon them, and let them go down quickly into bell; wickednesse is in their dwellings and among them.; against any of the Saints Zech. 2. 8.-10, 11. I have heard the reproach of Moab, and the revilings of the children of Ammon, whereby they have provoked my people, &c.—v. 10.] This shall they have for their pride, because they have reproached, and magnified themselves against the people of the Lord of hosts. v. 11.] The Lord wi [...]l be terrible unto them, &c. —Mat. 18 6 But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, &c. 1 Cor. 6. 8. Nay you do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren. Revel. 17. 6. And I saw the woman drunken with the blood of the Saints, and of the Martyrs of Jesus, &c., particularly weak brethren 1 Cor. 8. 11, 12. And through thy knowledg shall thy weak brother perish, for whom Christ dyed? v. 12.] But when ye sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak conscience, ye sin against Christ. Rom 14. 13.-15.-21. Let us not therefore judg one another any more; but judg this rather, that no man put a stumbling block, or an occasion to fall in his brothers way.—v. 15.] But if thy brother be grieved with thy meat, now walkest thou not charitably. Destroy not him with thy meat for whom Christ dyed.—v. 21.] It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended or is made weak., the [Page 114] souls of them or any other Ezek. 13. 19. And will ye pollute me among my people for handfuls of barley, and for pieces of bread to slay the souls that should not die, and to save the souls alive that should not live, by your lying to my people that hear your lyes? 1 Cor. 8. 12. But when you sin so against the brethren, and wound their weak consciences, ye sin against Christ. Rev. 18. 13.] The merchandize of gold] And cinamon, and odours, and ointments, and wine, and oil, and wheat, and beasts, and sheep, and horses, and chariots, and slaves, and souls of men. Mat. 23. 15. Wo unto you Scribes and Pharisces, hypocrites; for ye compass sea and land to make one pros [...]lite, and when he is made, ye make him two-fold more the child of hell then your selves., and the common good of all or many 1 Thes. 2. 15, 16. Who both killed the Lord Jesus, and their own Prophets, and have persecuted us, and they please not God, and are contrary to all men. v. 16.] Forbidding us to speak to the Gentiles, &c. —Josh. 22. 20.] Did not Achan the son of Zorah commit a trespass in the accursed thing, and wrath fell on all the Congregation of Israel? and that man perished not alone in his iniquity..

From the nature and quality of the offence Prov. 6. 30. to the end. Men do not de spise a thief, if he steal to satisfie his soul, when he is hungry. v. 31.] But if he be found he shall restore seven-fold, &c. v. 3.] But whoso committeth adultery with a woman, lacketh understanding; he that doth it destroyeth his own soul. V. 33.] A wound and dishonour shall he get, and his reproach shall not be wiped away, &c.—; if it be against the expresse letter of the Law Ezra. 9. 10, 11, 12. And now, O our God, what shall we say after this? for we have forsaken thy Commandments, V. 11.] Which thou hast commanded by thy Prophets, saying, The land unto which ye go is an unclean land with the filthiness of the people, &c. v. 12.] Now therefore give not your daughters to their sons, nor, &c—1 King. 11. 9, 10. And the Lord was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned away from the Lord God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice, v. 10.] And had commanded him concerning this thing, that he should not go after other gods; but he kept not that which the Lord commanded him., break many Commandments, contain in it many sins Col. 3. 5. Mortifie therefore your members which are upon the earth, fornication, uncleanness, inordinate aff [...]ction, evil concupiscence, and covet [...]usness, which is Idolatry. 1 Tim. 6. 10. For the love of money is the root of all evil; which while some have coveted after they have erred from the faith, and pi [...]rced themselves through with many sorrows. Prov. 5. 8, 9 10, 11, 12. Remove thy way f [...]r from her, and come not nigh the door of her house. v. 9.] Lest thou give thine honour unto others, and thy years unto the c [...]uel. v. 10.] Lest strangers be filled with thy wealth, &c. v. 11.] And thou mourn at the last when thy flesh and body are consumed, v. 12.] And say, How have I hated instruction, and my heart despised reproof! Prov. 6. 32, 33. But whoso committeth adultery with a woman, lacketh understanding: he that doth it destroyeth his own soul. v. 33.] A wound and dishonour shall he get, &c. —Josh▪ 7. 21. When I saw among the spoiles a goodly Babylonish garment, and 200 shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold of 50 shekels weight, then I coveted them, and took them, &c.—; if not onely conceived in the heart, but breaks forth in words and actions Jam 1. 14, 15. But every man is tempted when he is drawn away of his own lusts, and enticed. v. 15.] Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin, and sin when it is finished, bringeth forth death, Mat. 5. 22. But I say unto you that whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause, shall be in danger of the judgment; and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall be in danger of the Council; but whosoever shall say, Thou fool, shall be in danger of hell fire. Mich. 2. 1. Wo unto them that devise iniquity, that work evil upon their beds; when the morning is light they practise it, because it is in the power of their hand., scandalize others Mat. 18. 7. Wo to the world because of offences; for it must needs be that offences come, but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh. Rom. 2. 23, 24. Thou that makest thy boast of the Law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God. v. 24.] For the name of God is bl [...]sphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written., and admit [Page 115] of no reparation Deut. 22. 22. If a man be found lyi [...]g with a woman married to an husband, then they shall both of them dye: So shalt thou put away evil from Israel. Compared with v. 28, 29. If a man find a damsel that is a virgin which is not betrothed, and lay hold on her, and lye with her, and they be found, v. 29.] Then the man that lay with her shall give to the damsels father fifty shekels of silver, and she shall be his wife, because he hath humbled her; he may not put her away all his dayes. Prov. 6. 32, 33, 34, 35. But whoso committeth adultery with a woman, lacketh understanding: he that doth it, destroyeth his own Soul. v. 33.] A wound and dishonour shall he get, and his reproach shall not be wiped away. v. 34.] For jealousy is the rage of a man: therefore he will not spare in the day of vengeance. V. 35.] He will not regard any ransome, nor rest content, though thou givest many gifts.; if against means Matt. 11. 21, 22, 23, 24. Wo unto thee Corazim, woe unto thee Bethsaida; for if the mighty works which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. v. 22.] But I say unto you, it shall be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon, &c. v. 23.] And thou Capernaum that art lifted up to heaven shall 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. v. 24.] But I say unto you that it shall be more tolerable for Sodom, &c. —Joh. 15. 22. If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not had sin; but now they have no cloak for their sin., mercies Isai 1. 3. The oxe knoweth his owner, and the asse his masters crib, but Israel doth not know; my people doth not consider. Deut. 32. 6. Do ye thus requite the Lord, O foolish people, and unwise? is not he thy father that hath bought thee? hath he not made thee, and established thee?, judgments Amos 4. 8, 9, 10, 11. So two or three cities wandred unto one city to drink water; but they were not satisfied: yet have they not returned unto me, saith the Lord. v. 9.] I have smiten you with blasting and mil-dew, &c. yet have ye not returned unto me, saith the Lord. v. 10.] I have sent among you the Pestilence after the manner of Egypt, your young men have I slain with the sword, &c. yet have ye not, &c. v. 11.] I have overthrown some of you as I overthrew Sodom and Gomorrah and ye were as a fire-brand pluckt out of the burning yet have ye not returned unto me, saith the Lord. Jer. 5. 3. O Lord, are not thine eyes upon the truth? Thou hast striken them, but they have not grieved; thou hast consumed them, but they have refused to receive correction; they have made their face harder then a rock, and refused to return:, light of nature Rom. 1. 16, 17 For this cause God gave them up to vile affections; for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature. v. 27.] And likewise the men leaving the natural use of the women, &c.—and receiving in themselves that recompence of their errour that was meet., conviction of conscience Rom. 1 24. Who knowing the judgement of God, that they who do such things are worthy of death, not onely do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them. Dan. 5. 22. And thou, O Belshazzer his son, hast not humbled thy heart, though thou knowest all this. Tit. 3. 10, 11. A man that is an heretick, for the first and second admonition reject. v. 11.] Knowing that he that is such, is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself.; publick or private admonition Prov. 29. 1. He that being often reproved hardneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy., censures of the Church Tit. 3. 10. A man that is an heretick after the first and second admonition, reject. Matt. 18. 17. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it to the Church: but if he neglect to hear the Church, let him be as an Heathen man and a Publicane., civil punishments Prov. 27. 22. Though thou shouldest bray a fool in a morter among wheat wi [...]h a p [...]stel, yet will not his folly depart from him. Prov. 23. 25. They have striken me, shalt thou say, and I was not sick; they have beaten me, and I left it not, when shall I wake? I will seek it yet again., and our own [Page 116] prayers, purposes, promises Psal. 78. 34, 35, 36, 37. When he slew them, then they sought him, and returned and enquired early after God: v. 35.] And they remembred that God was their Rock, and the high God their redeemer. v. 36.] Nevertheless they did flatter him with their mouth, and they lyed unto him with their tongues. v. 37.] For their heart was not right with him, neither were they stedfast in his covenants. Jer. 2. 20. For of old time I have broken thy yoke, and bur [...]t thy bands, and thou saidst, I will not transgress when upon every high hill, and under every green tree thou wandrest, playing the harlot. Jer. 42. 5, 6.-20, 21. Then they said to Jeremiah, the Lord be a true and faithful witness between us, if we do not even according to all things for which the Lord thy God shall send thee to us, v. 6.] Whether it be good or evil, we will obey the voice of the Lord our God, to whom we send thee, &c.—v. 20.] But ye dissembled in your hearts when ye sent me to the Lord your God, saying, Pray for us unto the Lord our God, and according to all that the Lord our God shall say, so declare unto us, and we will do is. v. 21.] And now I have this day declared it to you, but ye have not obeyed the voice of the Lord your God, nor any thing for which he hath sent me unto you.; vows Eccles. 5. 4, 5, 6.—When thou vowest a vow unto God, deferre not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools, pay that thou hast vowed. v. 5.] Better is it that thou shouldst not vow, then that thou shouldst vow, and not pay. v. 6.] Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin; neither say thou before the Angel that it was an errour; wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hands? Prov. 20. 25. It is a suare to the man who devoureth that which is holy, and after voweth to make enquiry., covenants Lev. 26. 25. And I will bring the sword upon you, that shall avenge the quarrel of my covenant, &c., and engagements to God or men Prov. 2. 17. Which forsaketh the guide of her youth, and forgetteth the covenant of her God—Ezek 17. 18, 19. Seeing he despised the oath, by breaking the covenant (when loe he had given his hand) and hath done all these things, he shall not escape. v. 19.] Therefore thus saith the Lord God, surely mine oath that he hath despised, and my covenant that he hath broken, even it will I recompence upon his own head.; if done deliberately Psal. 36. 4. He deviseth mischief upon his bed, he setteth himself in a way that is not good, he abhorteth not evil., wilfully Jer. 6. 16. Thus saith the Lord, stand ye in the wayes, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your soules: But they said, we will not walk therein., presumptuously Num. 15. 30. But the soul that doth ought presumptuously, whether he be born in the land, or a stranger, the same provoketh the Lord, and that soul shall be cut off from among his people. Exod. 21. 14. But if a man come presumptuously upon his neighbour to slay him with guile, thou shalt take him from mine Altar that he may dye., impudently Jer. 3. 3. Therefore the showers have been withholden, and there hath been no latter rain; and thou hast a whores forehead, thou refusedst to be ashamed. Prov. 7. 13. So she caught him and kissed him, and with an impudent face said unto him, &c.—, boastingly Psal. 52. 1. Why boastest thou thy self in mischief, O thou mighty man? &c., maliciously 3 Joh. ver. 10. Wherefore, if I come, I will remember his deeds which he doth, prating against us with malicious words, &c., frequently Num. 14. 22. Because all those men who have seen my glory, and my miracles which I did in Egypt and in the wilderness, and have tempted me now these ten times, and have not hearkned to my voice, &c.— obstinately Zach. 7. 11, 12. But they refused to hearken, and pulled away the shoulder, and stopped their eares that they should not hear. v. 12.] Yea they made their hearts as an Adamant stone, least they should hear the law, and the word which the Lord of hosts hath sent in his spirit by the former prophets; therefore came a great wrath from the Lord of hosts., with delight Prov. 2. 14. Who rejoyce to do evil, and delight in the frowardness of the wicked., continuance Isai. 57. 17. For the iniquity of his covetousness was I wroth, and smore him; I hid me and was wroth, and he went on frowardly in the way of his heart., or relapsing after [Page 117] repentance Jer. 34. 8, 9, 10, 11. This is the word that came unto Jeremiah from the Lord, after that the King Zedckiah had made a Covenant with all the people which were at Jerusalem, to proclaim liberty to them, v. 9.] That every man should let his man servant, and maid-servant, being an Hebrew, or Hebrewess, go free, that none should serve himself of them, to wit, of a Jew his brother. v. 10.] Now when all the Princes and people which had entred into the COVENANT, heard it, they obeyed, and let them go▪ v. 11.] But afterwards they turned and caused the servants and hand-maids, whom they had let go free, to return, and brought them into subjection for servants and for hand-maids. 2 Pet. 2. 20, 21, 22. For if, after they have escaped the pollutions of the world, through the knowledg of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them then the beginning. v. 21.] For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, then after they have krown it to turn from the holy Commandment delivered unto them. v. 22.] But it is hapned unto them according to the true Proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again, and the sow that was washed, to her wallowing in the mire..

From circumstances of time 2 King. 5. 26. And he said unto Gehazi, Went not my heart with thee when the man turned again from his Chariot to meet thee? Is it a time to receive money, and garments, and olive-yards, and vine-yards, and sheep, and oxen, and men-servants, and maid-servants?, and place Jer. 7. 10.—And come and stand before me in this house which is called by my Name, and say, We are delivered to do all these abominations. Isa. 26. 10. Let favour be shewen to the wicked, yet will not he learn righteousness: in the land of uprightness will he deal unjustly, and will not behold the Majesty of the Lord.; if on the Lords-day Ezek. 23. 37, 38, 39. That they have committed adultery, and blood is in their hands, and with their idols have they committed, &c.—v. 38.] Moreover this they have done unto me, They have defiled my Sanctuary in the same day, and have profaned my Sabbaths. v. 39.] For when they had slain their children to their idols, then they came the same day into my Sanctuary to profane it; and lo, thus have they done in the midst of my house. or other times of divine worship Isa. 58. 3, 4, 5. Wherefore have we fasted, say they, and thou seest not? wherefore have we afflicted our selves, and thou takest no knowledg? Behold in the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labours. v. 4.] Behold ye fast for strife and debate, and to smite with the fists of wickedness; ye shall not fast as ye do this day, to make your voice to be heard on high. v. 5.] Is it such a fast that I have chosen? a day for a man to afflict his Soul? Is it to bow down the head as a bull-rush, and to spread sackcloth and ashes under him? Wilt thou call this a fast, and an acceptable day to the Lord? Num. 25. 6, 7. And behold one of the children of Israel came and brought unto his brethren a Midianitish woman in the fight of Moses, and of all the congregation of the children of Israel, who were weeping before the door of the Tabernacle of the Congregation. v. 7.] And when Phineas the son of Eleazer, the son of Aaron the Priest saw it, he rose up from among the Congregation, and took a Javelin in his hand—, or immediately before 1 Cor. 11. 20, 21. When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lords Supper: v. 21.] For in eating, every one taketh before other his own supper, and o [...]e is hungry, and another is drunken., or after these Jer. 7. 8, 9, 10. Behold ye trust in lying words that cannot profit. v. 9.] Will ye steal, murther, and commit adultery, and swear falsly, and burn incense to Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not. v. 10.] And come and stand before me in this house, which is called by my Name, and say, We are delivered to do all these abominations? Prov. 7. 14, 15. I have Peace-offerings with me; this day I have paid my vows. v. 15] Therefore come I forth to meet thee diligently, to seek thy face, and I have found thee. Joh. 13. 27-30. And after the sop Satan entred into him. Then said Jesus unto him, what thou dost, do quickly.—v. 10.] He then having received the s [...]p, went immediately out, &c., or other helps to prevent or remedy such miscarriages Ezr. 9. 13, 14. And after all that is come upon us for our evil deeds, and for our great trespass, seeing that thou our God hast punished us less then our iniquities deserve, and given us such deliverance as this. v. 14.] Should we again break thy Commandments, and join in affinity with the people of those abominations? wouldst thou not be angry with us till thou hadst consumed us, so that there should be no remnant, nor escaping?; if in publick, or in the presence of others who are [Page 118] thereby likely to be provoked or defiled 2 Sam. 16. 22. So they spread Absalom a tent upon the top of the house, and Absalom went in unto his fathers concubines in the fight of all Israel. 1 Sam. 2. 22, 23, 24. Now Eli was very old, and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel, and how they lay with the women that assembled at the door of the tabernacle, &c. v. 23.] And he said unto them, why do ye do such things? for I hear of your evil dealings by all this people. v. 24.] Nay, my sons; for it is no good report that I hear, ye make the Lords people to transgress..

Q. What doth every sin deserve at the hands of God?

A. Every sin, even the least, being against the soveraignty Jam. 2. 10, 11. For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all. v. 11.] For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill, Now, &c., goodness Exod. 20. 1, 2. God spake all these words, saying. v. 2.] I am the Lord thy God who brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage., and holiness of God Hab. 1. 13. Thou art of purer eyes then to behold evil, and canst not look on iniquity: wherefore lookest thou upon them that deal treacherously, and holdest thy tongue when the wicked devoureth the man that is more righteous then he? Lev. 10. 3. Then Moses said unto Aaron, This is that the Lord spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people will I be glorified. Lev 11. 44, 45. For I am the Lord your God, ye shall therefore sanctifie your selves, and ye shall be holy, for I am holy; neither shall ye defile your selves with any manner of creeping thing, &c. v. 45.] For I am the Lord which bringeth you up from the land of Egypt, to be your God; ye shall therefore be holy, for I am holy., and, against his righteous law 1 Joh. 3. 4. Whosoever committeth sin, transgresseth also the law, for sin is the transgression of the law. Rom 7. 12. Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, just and good., deserveth his wrath and curse Eph. 5. 6. Let no man deceive you with vain words, for because of these things the wrath of God cometh upon the children of disobedience. Gal. 3. 10. For as many as are of the works of the law, are under the curse; for it is written, Cursed is every one that continues not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them., both in this life Lam. 3. 39. Wherefore doth aliving man complain, a man for the punishment of his sin. Deut. 28. from v. 15. to the end. But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken to the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe to do all his commandments, and statutes which I command thee this day, that all these curses shall come upon thee and overtake thee—v. 29.] Cursed shalt thou be in the City, and cursed in the Field, cursed in the basket and store, &c.—, and that which is to come Mat. 25. 41 —Depart from me ye cursed into everlasting fire prepared for the Devil and his angels., and cannot be expiated, but by the blood of Christ Heb. 9. 22. And almost all the things are by the law purged with blood, and without shedding of blood there is no remission. 1 Pet. 1. 18, 19. For as much as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation, received by tradition from your fathers; v. 19.] But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot..

Q. VVhat doth God require of us that we may escape his wrath and curse due to us by reason of the transgression of the Law?

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A. That we may escape the wrath and curse of God due to us by reason of the transgression of the Law, he requireth of us repentance toward God, and Faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ Act. 20. 21. Testifying both to the Iews and also to the Greeks repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Iesus Christ. Matt. 3. 7, 8. But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadduces come to his Baptism, he said unto them, O generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? v. 8.] Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance. Act: 16. 30, 31. And he (the Jaylor) brought them out, and said, Sirs, what shall I do to be saved? v. 31. And they said, Believe on the Lord Iesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thine house. Ioh. 3. 16-18. For God so loved the world, that he gave his onely begotten Son, th [...]t whosoever believeth on him might not perish, but have everlasting life—v. 18.] He that believeth on him is not condemned, but he that believeth not is condemned already, because, &c., and the diligent use of the outward means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of his mediation Prov. 2. from v. 1. to v. 6 My son if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my Commandments with thee. v. 2.] So that thou encline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thy heart to understanding, v. 3.] Yea, if thou criest after knowledg, and lif [...]est up thy voice for understanding, v. 4.] If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her, as for hide treasure, v. 5.] Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledg of God. Prov. 8. 33, 34, 35, 36. Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not. v. 34.] Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. v. 35.] For whoso findeth me, findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord. v. 36.] But he that sinneth against me, wrongeth his own Soul; all they that hate me, love death..

Q. VVhat are the outward means whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of his mediation?

A. The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to his Church the benefits of his mediation, are, all his ordinances; especially the Word, Sacraments, and prayer; all which are made effectual to the elect for their Salvation Mat. 28. 19, 20. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Ghost; v. 20.] Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you alwaies, even unto the end of the world. Act. 2. 42-46, 47. And they continued stedfastly in the Apostles doctrine, and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers—v. 46.] And they, continuing daily with one accord in the Temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness, and singleness of heart. v. 47.] Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the Church daily such as should be saved..

Q. How is the word made effectual to Salvation?

A. The Spirit of God maketh the Reading, but especially the Preaching of the word, an effectual [Page 120] means of enlightning Neh. 8 8. So they read in the book in the Law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to unstand the reading. Act. 26. 18. To open their eyes, and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them who are sanctified by Faith that is in me. Psal 19. 8.—The Commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightning the eyes., convincing, and humbling sinners 1 Cor. 14. 24, 25. But if all prophecy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all. v. 25.] And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest, and so falling down on his face, he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth. 2 Chro. 34. 18, 19.-26, 27, 28. Then Shaphan the Scribe told the King saying, Hilkieh the Priest hath given me a book. And Shaphan read it before the King. v. 19.] And when the King had heard the words of the Law, he rent his cloths.—v. 26.] And as for the King of Judah, who sent you to enquire of the Lord, so shall ye say unto him, Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, concerning the words which thou hast heard. v. 27.] Because thy heart was tender, and thou didst humble thy self before God, when thou heardst his words against this place, and humblest thy self before me, and didst rent thy cloaths, and weep before me, I have heard thee also, saith the Lord. v. 28.] Behold I will gather thee to thy fathers, and thou shalt be gathered to thy grave in peace,—&c.—, of driving them out of themselves, and drawing them unto Christ Act. 2. 37.-41. Now when they heard this, they were pricked to their hearts, and said unto Peter and the rest of the Apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do to be saved? v. 41.] Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about 3000 Souls. Act. 8. from ver. 27. to ver. 39. And behold a man of Ethiopia, an Eunuch of great authority, &c. was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the Prophet. v. 29.] Then the Spirit said to Philip, Go neer, and join thy self to this Chario [...]. v. 30.] And Philip ran thither to him, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest? &c.—v. 35.] Then Philip began at the same Scripture, and preached unto him Iesus.—V. 36.]—And the Eunuch said, See here is water, what doth hinder me to be baptized? v. 37.] And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou maist. And he answered, and said, I believe that Iesus Christ is the Son of God.—V. 38.]—And they went down both into the water, and he Baptized him., of comforming them to his Image 2 Cor 3. 18. But we all with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image, from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord., and subduing them to his will 2 Cor. 10. 4, 5, 6. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty, through God, to the pulling down of strong holds. v. 5.] Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth it self against the knowledg of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. v. 6.] And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled. Rom. 6. 17. But God be thanked that ye were the servants of sin; but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered to you., of strengthening them against temptations and corruptions Mat. 4. 4.-7.—10. But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live, &c.—v. 7.] Iesus said unto him, It is written, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord, &c.—v. 10.] Then said Jesus unto him, get thee hence, Satan; for it is written, Thou shalt worship, &c. —Eph 6. [...]6, 17. Above all taking the shield of Faith, whereby ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. v. 17.] And take the helmet of Salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Psal. 19. 11. Moreover by them is thy servant warned; and in keeping of them there is great reward. 1 Cor 10. 11. Now all these things hapned unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends▪ of the world are c [...]m [...]., of building them up in grace Act. 20. 32. And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among them that are sanctified. 2 Tim. 3. 15, 16 17. And that from a child thou hast known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto Salvation, through Faith which is in Christ Jesus. v. 16.] All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. v. 17.] That the man of God may be perfect throughly furnished unto all good works., and establishing their [Page 121] hearts in holiness and comfort through faith unto salvation Rome. 16. 25. Now to him that is of power to establish you according to my Gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mysterie, which was kept secret since the world began—1 Thes. 3. 2-10, 11.-13. And sent Timotheus our brother and minister of God, and our fellow labourer in the Gospel of Christ, to establish you, and comfort you concerning your faith—v. 10.] Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and perfect what is lacking in your faith. v. 11.] Now God himself, and our Father, and our Lord Jesus Christ direct our way unto you—v. 13.] To the end he may establish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, &c. Rom. 15. 4. For whatsoever things were written afore-time, were written for our learning, that through patience and comfort of the Scriptures we might have hope. Rom. 10 13, 14, 15, 16, 17. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. v. 14.] How then shall they call on him, on whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a Preacher? v. 15.] And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the Gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things? v. 16.] But they have not all obeyed the Gospell, for Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? v. 17.] So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God Rom. 1. 16. For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto Salvation, to every one that believeth, to the Jew first and also to the Greek.

Q. Is the word of God to be read by all?

A. Although all are not to be permitted to read the Word publickly to the Congregation Deut. 31. 9.-11 12, 13. And Moses wrote this Law, and delivered it unto the Priests the sons of Levi, which bare the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord, and unto all the elders of Israel.—v. 11.] When all Israel is come to appear before the Lord thy God, in the place which he shall chuse, thou shalt read this law before all Israel in their hearing. v. 12.] Gather the people together, men, and women, and children, and thy stranger that is within thy gates, that they may hear, and learn, and fear the Lord your God, and observe to do all the words of this law, v. 13.] And that their children which have not known any thing, may hear, and learn to fear the Lord your God, as long as ye live in the land, &c. Neh. 8. 2, 3. And Ezra the Priest brought the law before the congregation both of men and women, and all that could hear with understanding. v. 3.] And he read therein before the street that was before the water-gate, from morning till noon, before the men and women, and those that could understand, and the ears of all the people were attentive unto the book of the law. Neh. 9. 3, 4, 5. And they stood up in their place, and read in the book of the law of the Lord their God, one fourth part of the day, and another fourth part they confessed, and worshipped the Lord their God. v. 4.] Then stood up upon the stairs of the Levites, Jeshua, and Bani, &c. and cryed with a loud voice unto the Lord their God. v. 5.] Then the Levites, Jeshua, and K [...]dmi [...]l, &c. said, stand up, and bless the Lord your God, &c., yet all sorts of people are bound to read it apart by themselves Deut. 17. 19. And it shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the dayes of his life; that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, to keep all the words of this law, and these statutes to do them, Rev. 1. 3. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this Prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein, for the time is at hand. Joh. 5. 39. Search the Scriptures, for in them ye think ye have eternal life, and they are they which testifie of me. Isa. 34. 16▪ Seek ye out of the book of the Lord, and read, no one of these shall fail, &c., and [Page 122] with their families Deut. 6. 6, 7, 8, 9. And these words which I command this day shall be in thine heart; v. 7.] And thou shalt teach them diligently to thy children, and thou shale talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou lyest down, and when thou risest up. v. 8.] And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thy hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. v. 9.] And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and upon thy gates. Gen. 18. 17-19. And the Lord said, Shall I hide from Abraham the thing which I do?—v. 19.] For I know him, that he will command his children, and his houshold after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, &c. Psal. 78. 5, 6, 7. For he established a Testimony in Jacob, and appointed a Law in Israel, which he commanded our fathers that they should make known to their children. v. 6.] That the generations to come might know them, even the children which should be born, who should arise and declare them to their children, v. 7.] That they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of God, but keep his Commandments., to which end the holy Scriptures are to be translated out of the Original into vulgar languages 1 Cor. 14. 6-9-11. 12-15, 16-24-27, 28. Now, brethren, if I come unto you, speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledg, or by prophecying, or by doctrine?—v. 9.] So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easie to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air.—v. 11.] Therefore If I know not the meaning of the voice, I shall be unto him that speaketh a Barbarian, and he that speaketh shall be a Barbarian unto me. v. 12.] Even so ye, for as much as ye are zealous of Spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the Church.—v. 15.] What is it then? I will pray with the Spirit, and will pray with understanding also; I will sing with the Spirit, and with understanding also. v. 16.] Else when thou shalt bless with the Spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned, say, Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?—v. 24.] But if all prophecy, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all.—v. 27.] If any man speak in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at most by three, and that by course, and let one interpret. v. 28.] But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the Church, and let him speak to himself and to God..

Q. How is the word of God to be read?

A. The holy Scriptures are to be read, with an high, and reverend esteem of them Psal. 19. 10. More to be desired are they then glod, yea then much fine gold, sweeter also then the honey, and the honey-comb. Neh. 8. from ver. 3. to ver. 10. And he read therein from morning till noon, &c. and the ears of the people were attentive unto the book of the Law. V. 4] And Ezra the Scribe stood upon a pulpit of wood, which they had made for the same purpose. &c. v. 5.] And he opened the book, &c. v. 6.] And he blessed the Lord the great God; and all the people answered, Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands, and they bowed their heads and worshipped the Lord, with their faces to the ground, &c. —Exod. 24. 7. And he [Moses] took the book of the Covenant, and read in the audience of the people; and they said, All that the Lord hath said will we do, and be odedient. 2 Chron. 34. 27. Because thine heart was tender, and thou didst humble thy self before God, when thou heardest his words against this place, and humblest thy self before me, and didst rent thy clothes, and weep before me, I have heard thee also, saith the Lord. Isa. 66. 2. —But to this man will I look, even to him that is poor, and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word.; with a firm perswasion that they are the very Word of God 2 Pet. 1. 19, 20, 21. We have also a more sure word of prophecy, whereunto you do well that ye take heed as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, till the day dawn, and the day-star arise in your hearts. v. 20.] Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the Scripture is of any private interpretation. v. 21.] For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man, but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost., and that he onely can enable us to understand [Page 123] them Luk. 24. 45. Then opened he their understandings, that they might understand the scriptures. 2 Cor. 3. 13, 14, 15, 16. And not as Moses, who put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished; v. 14.] But their mindes were blinded, for untill this day remaineth the same vail untaken away, in the reading of the Old Testament; which vail is done away in Christ. v. 15.] But even to this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. v. 16.] Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away., with desire to know, believe and obey the will of God revealed in them Deut. 17. 19, 20. 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. v. 20.] That his heart be not lifted up above his brethren, and that he turn not aside from the Commandment, to the right hand, or to the left; to the end that he might prolong his dayes in, &c., with diligence Act. 17. 11. These (Bercans) were more noble then those in Thessalonica; in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily whether these things were so., and attention to the matter and scope of them Act. 8. 30-34. And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the Prophet Esaias; and he said, understandest thou what thou readest?—v. 34.] And the Eunuch said to Philip, I pray thee of whom speaketh the Prophet this, of himself, or of some other man? Luk. 10. 26, 27, 28. What is written in the law? how readest thou? v. 27.] And he answering, said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy hea [...]t, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind, and thy neighbour as thy self. v. 28.] And he said to him, Thou hast answered right; this doe, and thou shalt live.; with meditation Psal. 1. 2. But his delight is in the Law of the Lord, and in that law doth he meditate day and night. Psal. 119. 97. O how love I thy Law! it is my meditation all the day., application 2 Chr. 34. 21. Goe, enquire of the Lord for me, and for them that are left in Israel, and Judah, concerning the words of the book that is found; for great is the wrath of the Lord that is poured out upon us, because our fathers have not kept the word of the Lord, to do all that is written in this book., self-denial Prov. 3. 5. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart, and lean not to thine own understanding. Deut. 33. 3. Yea he loved the people; all his saints are in thy hand; and they sat down at thy feet, every one shall receive of thy words., and prayer Prov. 2. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandements with thee. v. 2] So that thou encline thine ear to wisdom and apply thy hear [...] to understanding, v. 3.] Yea if thou cryest after knowledg, and liftest up thy voice for understanding, v. 4.] If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures. v. 5.] Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledg of God—v. 6.] For the Lord giveth wisdom; out of his mouth cometh knowledg and understanding. Psal. 119. 18. Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law. Neh. 8. 6-8. And Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God, and all the people answered Amen, Amen, with lifting up their hands; and they bowed their heads, and worshipped the Lord, with their faces to the ground—v. 8.] So they read in the book, in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.—

Q. By whom is the Word of God to be preached?

A. The Word of God is to be preached onely by such as are sufficiently gifted 1 Tim. 3. 2.-6. A bishop then must be. blameless, the husband of one wise, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality apt to teach—v. 6] Not a novice, least being lifted up with pride, he fall into the condemnation, &c. Eph. 4. 8, 9, 10, 11. Wherefore he saith, when he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men v. 9.] (Now that he ascended, what is it but that he also descended, &c.—) v. 11.] And he gave some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some Evangelists, and some Pastours and Teachers, &c▪ Hos. 4. 6. My people are destroyed for lack of knowledg; because thou hast rejected knowledg, I will reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me; seeing thou hast forgotten the Law of thy God, I will also forget thy children. Mal. 2. 7. For the Priests lips should keep knowledg, and they should seek the Law at his mouth; for he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts. 2 Cor. 3. 6. Who also hath made us able ministers of the new Testament not of the letter, but of the Spirit, for the letter killeth, but the Spirit giveth life., and also duly approved [Page 124] and called to that office Ier. 14. 13. Therefore thus saith the Lord concerning the Prophets that prophecy in my Name, and I sent them not, yet they say, &c. Rom. 10. 15. And how shall they preach except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful, &c. Heb. 5. 4. And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron. 1 Cor. 12. 28, 29. And God hath set some in the Church, first Apostles, secondarily Prophets, thirdly Teachers, after that Miracles, then gifts of healing, Helps, Governments, diversities of tongues. v. 29,] Are all Apostles? are all P [...]opets? are all Teachers? are all workers of Miracles? 1 Tim. 3. 10. And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a Deacon, being found blameless 1 Tim. 4. 14. Neglect no [...] the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the Presbytery. 1 Tim. 5. 22. Lay hands suddenly on no man; neither be partaker of other mens sins, &c..

Q How is the Word of God to be preached by those that are called thereunto?

A. They that are called to labour in the ministry of the Word, are to preach sound doctrine Tit. 2. 1.-8. But speak thou the things that become sound doctrine.—v. 8.] Sound speech that cannot be condemned, that he who is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you., diligently Act. 18. 25. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord, and being servent in the Spirit, he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, &c.; in season, and out of season 2 Tim. 4. 2. Preach the word: be instant in season, out of season; rebuke, reprove, exhort, with all long suffering, and doctrine.; plainly 1 Cor. 14. 19. Yet in the Church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, then ten thousand words in an unknown tongue., not in the enticing words of mans wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit, and power 1 Cor. 2. 4. And my speech, and my preaching was not with enticing words of mans wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit, and of power.; faithfully Jer. 23. 28. The Prophet that hath a dream, let him tell a dream, and he that hath my word, let him speak my word faithfully: What is the chaff to the wheat, saith the Lord? 1 Cor 4. 1, 2. Let a man so account of us as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. v. 2.] Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful., making known the whole counsel of God Act. 20. 27. For I have not shunned to declare unto you the whole counsel of God.; wisely Col. 1. 28. Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. 2 Tim. 2. 15. Study to shew thy self approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth., applying themselves to the necessities and capacities of the hearers 1 Cor. 3. 2. I have sed you with milk, and not with meat; for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able. Heb. 5. 12, 13, 14. For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first principles of the Oracles of God, and are become such as have need of milk, and not of strong meat. v. 13.] For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness; for he is a babe. v. 14.] But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use, have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. Luk. 12. 42. And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his Lord shall make ruler over his houshold, to give them their portion of meat in due season? [Page 125] zealously Act. 18. 25. This man was instructed in the way of the Lord, and being fervent in the Spirit he spake and taught diligently the things of the Lord, &c., with fervent love to God 2 Cor. 5. 13, 14. For whether we be besides our selves, it is to God, or whether we be sober, it is for your cause. v. 14.] For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one dyed for all, then were all dead. Phil. 1. 15, 16, 17. Some indeed preach Christ out of envy and strife, and some also of good will. v. 16.] The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to adde affliction to my bonds. v. 7.] But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the Gospel:, and the souls of his people Col. 4. 12. Epaphras who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you; alwayes labouring servently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. 2 Cor. 12. 15. And I will very gladly spend, and be spent for you, though the more abundantly I love you; the less I be loved.; sincerely 2 Cor. 2. 17. For we are not as many, who corrupt the word of God, but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God, speak we in Christ. 2 Cor. 4. 2. But have renounced the hidden things of dishonesty, not walking in craftiness, nor handling the word of God deceitfully, but by manifestation of the truth, commending our selves to every mans conscience in the sight of God., aiming at his glory 1 Thes. 2. 4, 5, 6. But as we are allowed of God to be put in trust with the Gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, who tryeth the hear [...]s. v. 5.] For neither at any time used we flattering words, as ye know, not a cloak of covetousness, God is witness. v. 6.] Nor of men sought we glory, neither of you, nor yet of others, when we might have been burdensome, as the Apostles of Christ. Joh. 7. 18. He that speaketh of himself, seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true and no unrighteousness is in him., and their conversion 1 Cor. 9. 19, 20, 21, 22. For though I be free from all men, yet have I made my self servant unto all, that I might gain the more. v. 20.] And unto the Jewes, I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jewes; to them that are under the Law as under the Law, that, &c. v. 21.] To them that are without Law, as without Law, that, &c. v. 22.] To the weak, became I as weak that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, &c., edification, 2 Cor. 12 19. Again, think you that we excuse our selves unto you; we speak before God in Christ: but we do all things, dearly beloved, for your edifying. Eph. 4. 12. For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ., and salvation 1 Tim. 4. 16. Take heed unto thy self, and to the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this, thou shalt both save thy self, and them that hear thee. Act. 16. 16, 17, 18. But rise and stand upon thy feet; for I have appeared unto thee, for this purpose, to make thee a minister, and a witness, &c. v. 17.] Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles unto whom I now send thee, v. 18.] To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and an inheritance among them that are sanctified by faith that is in me..

Q. What is required of those that hear the Word preached?

A. It is required of those that hear the Word preached, that they attend upon it with diligence Prov. 8 34. Blessed is the man that heareth me watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors., preparation 1 Pet. 2. 1, 2. Wherefore laying aside all malice and all guile, and hypocrisy, and envies, and evil-speakings. v. 2.] As new born babes, desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby. Luk 8. 18. Take beed therefore how ye hear; for whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken, &c., and prayer Psal. 119. 18. Open mine eyes, that I may behold wonderous things out of thy law. Eph. 6. 18, 19. Praying alwayes with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints, v. 19.] And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the Gospel., examine what they [Page 126] hear by the Scriptures Act. 17. 11. These were more noble then those of Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily whether those things were so., receive the truth with faith Heb. 4. 2. For unto us was the Gospel preached as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them; being not mixed with faith in them that heard it., love 2 Thes. 2. 10. And with all deceivableness of unrighteousnesse in them that perish, because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved., meekness Jam. 1. 21. Wherefore lay apart all filthiness, and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the ingrafted word, which is able to save your souls., and readiness of mind Act. 17. 11. These were more noble then those in Thessalonica, in that they received the Word with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily whether those things were so., as the Word of God 1 Thes. 2. 13. For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but, as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe.; meditate Luk. 9. 44. Let these sayings sink down into your ears; for the Son of man shall be delivered, &c. Heb. 2. 1. Therefore we ought to give the more diligent heed to the things we have heard, left at any time we should let them slip., and confer of it Luk. 24. 14. And they talked together of all these things which had hapned. Deut. 6. 6, 7. And these words which I command thee this day shall be in thine heart; v. 7.] And thou shalt teach them diligently to thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thy house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou lyest down, and when thou risest up.; hide it in their hearts Prov. 2. 1 My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee. Psal. 119. 11: Thy word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against thee., and bring forth the fruit of it in their lives Luk. 8. 15. But that on the good ground are they which with an honest and good heart having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience. Jam. 1. 25. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the word, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

Q. How do the Sacraments become effectual meanes of salvation?

A. The Sacraments become effectual meanes of salvation; not by any power in themselves, or any vertue derived from the piety and intention of him by whom they are administred; but only by the working of the holy Ghost, and the blessing of Christ by whom they are instituted 1 Pet. 3. 21. The like figure whereunto even Baptism doth also now save us, (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Act. 8. 13 Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Phil [...]p, and wondred, beholding the miracles and signs which were done. Compared with v. 23.] For I perceive (said Peter to Simon) that thou art in the gall of bitterness and in the bond of iniquity. 1 Cor. 3. 6, 7. I have planted, Apollo watered: but God gave the in [...]rease. v. 7.] So then neither is he that planteth any thing, nor he that watereth, but God that giveth t [...]e increase. 1 Cor. 12. 13. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jew [...], [...] Gentil [...]; bond, or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

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Q. What is a Sacrament?

A. A Sacrament is an holy ordinance instituted by Christ in his Church Gen. 17. 7.-10 And I will establish my Covenant between me and thee, and their seed after thee in their generations▪ for an everlasting Covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee.—v. 10.] This is my Covenant which ye shall keep between me and you, and thy seed after thee: Every man-child among you shall be circumcised. Exod. Cap. 12. Containing the institution of the Passover. Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, Baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Mat. 26. 26, 27, 28, And as they were earing, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the Disciples, and said, Take, eat, This is my body. v. 27.] And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; v. 28.] For this is my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins., to signifie, seale, and exhibit Rom. 4. 11. And he received the sign of Circumcision, a Seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had, yet being uncircumcised, that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised, that righteousness might be imputed unto them also. 1 Cor. 11. 24, 25. And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat, this is my body which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. v. 25.] After the same manner also he took the Cup, when he had supped, saying, This Cup is the New Testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me., unto those that are within the Covenant of grace Rom. 15. 8. Now I say, that Jesus Christ was a Minister of the Circumcision, for the truth of God, to confirm the promises made unto the fathers. Exod. 12. 48. And when a stranger shall sojourn with thee, and will keep the Passover to the Lord, let all his males he circumcised, and then let him come neer, and keep it: and he shall be as one that is born in the land; for no uncircumcised person shall eat thereof., the benefits of his meditation Act. 2. 38. Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the Name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. 1 Cor. 10. 16. The Cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the Communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the Communion of the body of Christ?; to strengthen and increase their faith, and all other graces Rom. 4. 11. See in [u] above. Gal. 3. 27. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ, have put on Christ.; to oblige them to obedience Rom. 6. 3, 4. Know ye not that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ, were baptized into his death? v. 4.] Therefore we are buried with him by Baptism into death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 1 Cor. 10. 21. Ye cannot drink of the Cup of the Lord, and the cup of Divels: ye cannot be partakers of the Lords Table, and the table of Divels.; to testifie, and cherish their love and communion one with another Eph. 4. 2, 3, 4, 5. With all lowlinesse and meeknesse, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love. v. 3.] endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. v. 4.] There is one body, and one spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling. v. 5.] One Lord, one Faith, one Baptism, 1 Cor. 12. 13. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jewes or Gentiles, bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one spiri [...]., and to distinguish them from those that are without 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. v. 12.] That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the Commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the Covenant of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world. Gen. 34. 14. And they said unto them, We cannot do this thing to give our sister to one that is uncircumcised, for that were a reproach to us.

Q. What are the parts of a Sacrament?

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A. The parts of a Sacrament are two; the one, an outward and sensible signe, used according to Christs own appointment; the other an inward and Spiritual grace, thereby signified Mat. 3. 11. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but he that cometh after me is mightier then I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear, he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire. 1 Pet. 3. 21. The like figure whereunto, even Baptisme doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience towards God) by the resurrection of Iesus Christ. Rom. 2. 28, 29. For he is not a Jew that is one outwardly, neither is that circumcision which is outward in the flesh: v. 29.] But he is a Jew, who is one inwardly, and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, and not in the letter, whose praise is not of men, but of God.

Q How many Sacraments hath Christ instituted in his Church under the New Testament?

A. Under the New Testament Christ hath instituted in his Church onely two Sacraments; Baptisme, and the Lords Supper Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. 1 Cor. 11. 20.-23. When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lords Supper.—ver▪ 23.] For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Iesus the same night wherein he was betrayed, took bread; &c. Mat. 26. 26, 27, 28. And as they were eating, Iesus took bread, and—&c. See above in [t]

Q. What is Baptisme?

A. Baptisme is a Sacrament of the New Testament, wherein Christ hath ordained the washing with water, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, to be a signe and seal of ingrafting into himself Gal. 3. 27. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ, have put on Christ., of remission of sins by his blood Mark. 1. 4. John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptisme of repentance, for the remission of sins. Rev. 1. 5.—Unto him that loved us, and wished us from our sins in his own blood., and regeneration by his Spirit Tit. 3. 5. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost. Eph. 5. 26. That he might sanctifie, and cleanse it with the washing of water, by the word.; of Adoption Gal. 3. 26, 27. For ye are all the children of God, by faith in Christ Jesus. v. 27.] For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. and resurrection unto everlasting life 1 Cor. 15. 29. Else what shall they do that are baptized for the dead? if the dead rise not at all, why are they then baptized for the dead? Rom. 6. 5. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection., and whereby the parties baptized [Page 129] are solemnly admitted into the visible Church 1 Cor. 12. 13. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jewes, or Gentiles; bond, or free; and are all made to drink into one Spirit., and enter into an open and professed ingagement to be wholly and onely the Lords Rom. 6. 4. Therefore we are buried by baptisme with him into death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead, by the glory of his father, so we also should walk in newnesse of life..

Q. Unto whom is Baptisme to be administred?

A. Baptisme is not to be administred to any that are out of the visible Church, and so strangers from the Covenant of promise, till they professe their faith in Christ, and obedience to him Act. 8. 36, 37. And as they went on their way they came to a certain water; and the Eunuch said, see here is water; what hinders me to be baptized? v. 37. And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest; And he answered, and said, I believe that Jesus is the Son of God—and he baptized him. Act. 2 38. Then Peter said, repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost., but infants descending from parents, either both, or but one of them, professing faith in Christ, and obedience to him, are in that respect within the Covenant, and to be baptized Gen. 17. 7-9. And I will establish my Covenant between me and thee, and thy seed after thee in their generations, for an everlasting Covenant, to be a God unto thee, and to thy seed after thee.—And God said unto Abraham, Thou shalt keep my Covenant therefore, thou and thy seed after thee in their generations; this is my Covenant, &c. Compared with Gal. 3. 9.-14. So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.—v. 4. That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith. And with Col. 2. 11, 12. In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in cutting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ. v. 12. Buried with him in Baptisme, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God who hath raised him from the dead. And with Act. 2. 38, 39. Then Peter said, repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. v. 39. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with Rom. 4. 11, 12. And he received the sign of Circumcision, a seal of the Righteousnesse of faith which he had being yet uncircumcised, that he might be the father of all them who believe, though they be not circumcised, that righteousnesse might be imputed unto them also. v. 12. And the father of Circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision onely, but also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. 1 Cor. 7. 14. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband; else were your children unclean, but now are they holy. Mat 28. 19. Go ye therefore tea [...]h all nations baptizing them in the name, &c. Luk. 18. 15, 16. And they brought unto him also infants, that he should touch them; but when his discsples saw it, they rebuked them. v. 16. But Jesus called them unto him, and said, suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not, for of such is the kingdom of heaven. Rom. 11. 16. For if the first fruits be holy, the lump is also holy; and if the root be holy, so are the branches..

Q. How is our Baptisme to be improved by us?

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A. The needful but much neglected duty of improving our Baptisme, is to be performed by us all our life long; especially in the time of temptation, and when we are present at the administration of it to others Col. 2. 11, 12. In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ. V. 12.] Buried with him in baptisme, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God who hath raised him from the dead. Rom. 6. 4-6-11. Therefore we are buried by baptisme with him into death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead, by the glory of his father, so we also should walk in newnesse of life—V. 6.] Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin—V. 11.] Likewise reckon ye also your selves to be dead indeed unto sin, bu [...] alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord., by serious and thankful consideration of the nature of it, and of the ends for which Christ instituted it, the priviledges and benefits conferred and sealed thereby, and our solemn vow made therein Rom 6. 3, 4, 5. Know ye not that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ, were baptized into his death? V. 4.] Therefore we are buried by baptisme with him into death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of his father, so we also should walk in newness of life, V. 5.] For if we have been planted together in the likenesse of his death, we shall be also in the likenesse of his resurrection., by being humbled for our sinful defilement, our falling short of, and walking contrary to the grace of Baptisme and our ingagements 1 Cor. 1. 11, 12, 13. For it hath been declared unto me of you my brethren, by them which are of the house of Ch [...]o [...], tha [...] there are contentions among you. V. 11.] Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul, and I am of Apollo, and I of Cephas, and I of Christ. V. 13.] Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? Rom. 6. 2, 3. —God forbid. How shall we that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? V. 3.] Know ye not that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ, were baptized into his death?, by growing up to assurance of pardon of sin, and of all other blessings sealed to us in that Sacrament Rom. 4. 11, 12. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of righteousness of faith, which he had, being yet uncircumcised, that he might be the father of all them who believe, though they be not circumcised, that righteousness might be imputed unto them also; V. 12.] And the father of circumcision to them who are not of the circumcision onely, but also walk in the steps of that faith of our father Abraham, which he had being yet uncircumcised. 1 Pet. 3. 21. The like figure whereunto even batpisme, doth also now save us, (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience towards God) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ., by drawing strength from the death and resurrection of Christ, into whom we are baptized, for the mortifying of sin, and quickning of grace Rom. 6. 3, 4, 5. See above in [q], and by endeavouring to live by faith Gal. 3. 26, 27. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Jesus Christ. V. 27.] For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ., to have our conversation in holinesse and righteousnesse Rom. 6. 22. But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life., as those that have therein given up their names to Christ Act. 2. 38. Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ, for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost., and to walk in brotherly love, as being baptized [Page 131] by the same Spirit into one body 1 Cor. 12. 13,—25, 26, 27. For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jewes or Gentiles, bond or free; and are all made to drink into one Spirit—V. 25.] That there should be no Schisme in the body, but the members should have the same care one of another. V. 26.] And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it, or one member be honoured, all the members rejoyce with it. V. 27.] Now ye are the body of Christ and members in particular..

Q. VVhat is the Lords Supper?

A. The Lords Supper is a Sacrament of the New Testament Luk. 22 20. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the New Testament in my blood which is shed for you., wherein, by giving and receiving bread and wine according to the appointment of Jesus Christ, his death is shewed forth; and they that worthily communicate, feed upon his body and blood, to their spiritual nourishment and growth in grace Mat. 26. 26, 27, 28. And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and br [...]ke it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat, this is my body. V. 27.] And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it. V. 28.] For this is my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. 1 Cor. 11. 23, 24, 25, 26. For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus in the same night wherein he was betrayed, took bread; V. 24.] And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat, this is my body, which is broken for you, this do in remembrance of me. V. 25.] After the same manner also he took the Cup, when he had Supped, saying, This Cup is the New Testament in my blood; this do ye as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. V. 26.] For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this Cup, ye shew the Lords death till he come., have their union and communion with him confirmed 1 Cor. 10. 16. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the Communion of the blood of Christ? and the bread which we break, is it not the Communion of the body of Christ?—, testifie and renew their thankfulnesse 1 Cor. 11. 24, 25, 26. For I have received of the Lord, &c. —See above in [a], and ingagement to God 1 Cor. 10. 14, 15, 16. 21. Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry. V. 15.] I speak as to wise men, judge ye what I say. V. 16.] The cup of blessing which we blesse, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? that bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?—V. 21.] Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of Devils; ye cannot be partakers of the Lords table, and of the table of Devils. and their mutual love and fellowship each with other, as members of the same mystical body Cor. 10. 17. For we being many are one bread, and one body, for we are all partakers of that one bread..

Q. How hath Christ appointed bread and wine to be given and received in the Sacrament of the Lords Supper?

A. Christ hath appointed the Ministers of his Word, in the administration of this Sacrament of the Lords Supper, to set apart the bread and wine from common use, by the word of institution, thanksgiving, and prayer, to take and break the bread, and to give both the bread, and [Page 132] the Wine to the Communicants, who are, by the same appointment, to take, and eat the Bread, and to drink the Wine, in thankful remembrance, that the body of Christ was broken and given, and his blood shed for them 1 Cor. 11. 23, 24. For I have received of the Lord; that which, &c. See before under [a] Mat. 26. 26, 27, 28. And as they were eating, Jesus▪ took bread, &c. See before at [a] Mark. 14. 22, 23, 24. And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat, this is my body. V. 27.] And he took the cup, and when he had given thanks, he gave it to them, and they all drank of it. V. 28.] And he said unto them, This is my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many. Luke 22. 19, 20. And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave it to them, saying, This is my body which it given for you; This [...] in remembrance of me. V. 20.] Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the New Testament in my blood, which is shed for you..

Q. How do they that worthily communicate in the Lords Supper, feed upon the body and blood of Christ therein?

A. As the body and blood of Christ are not corporally or carnally present in, with, or under the Bread and Wine in the Lords Supper Act. 3. 21. Whom the heaven must receive until the time of the restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy Prophets since the world began., and yet are spiritually present to the faith of the receiver, no less truly and really then the elements themselves are to their outward senses Mat. 26. 26-28. And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat, this is my body.—V. 28.] For this is my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many, for the remission of sins., so they that worthily communicate in the Sacrament of the Lords Supper, do therein feed upon the body and blood of Christ, not after a corporal, or carnal, but in a spiritual manner, yet truly and really 1 Cor. 11. 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29. And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat, this is my body which is broken for you; this do in remembrance of me. V. 25.] After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the New Testament in my blood: This do ye as often as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. V. 26.] For as oft as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lords death till he come. V. 27.] Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. V. 28.] But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. V. 29.] For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lords body., while by faith they receive and apply unto themselves Christ crucified, and all the benefits of his death 1 Cor. 10. 16. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? the bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?.

Q. How are they that receive the Sacrament of the Lords Supper, to prepare themselves before they come unto it?

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A. They that receive the Sacrament of the Lords Supper, are, before they come, to prepare themselves thereunto, by examining themselves 1 Cor. 11. 18. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup., of their being in Christ 2 Cor. 13. 5. Examine your selves whether you be in the faith; prove your own selves; know ye not your own selves how that Christ is in you, except ye he reprobates?, of their sins, and wants 1 Cor. 5. 7. Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a dew lump, as ye are unleavened; for [...] Christ our Passeover is sacrificed for us. Compared with Exod. 12. 15. Seven dayes shall ye eat unleavened bread, even the first day ye shall put away leaven out of your houses. For whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh, that soul shall be cut off from Israel., of the truth & measure of their knowledg 1 Cor. 11. 29. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lords body., faith 2 Cor. 13. 5. Examine your selves whether ye be in the faith, &c. See above in [m] Mat. 26. 28. For this is my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins., repentance Zech. 12. 10. And I will pour out upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem the spirit of grace and of supplications, and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him as one that mourneth for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for him, as one that is in bitternesse for his first-born. 1 Cor. 11. 31: For if we would judge our selves, we should not be judged., love to God and the brethren 1 Cor. 10. 16, 17. The Cup of blessing which we blesse, is it not the Communion of the blood of Christ? the bread which we break, is it not the Communion of the body of Christ? V. 17. For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we all partake of that one bread. Act. 2. 46, 47. And they continued daily with one accord in the Temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladnesse, and singlenesse of heart, V. 47. Praising God, and having favour with all the people; and the Lord added to the Church daily such as should be saved., charity to all men 1 Cor. 5. 8. Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice, and wickednesse, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. 1 Cor. 11. 18-20. For first of all, when ye come together in the Church, I hear that there be divisions among you, and I partly believe it.—V. 20. When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lords Supper., forgiving those that have done them wrong Mat. 5. 23, 24. Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the Altar, and there rememberst that thy brother hath ought against thee, v. 24. Leave there thy way, first be recnociled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift., of their desires after Christ Isa. 55. 1. Ho, every one that thirsteth come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money, come ye, buy and eat; yea, come buy milk and wine without money, and without price. Job. 7. 37. In the last day, the great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cryed, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me and drink., and of their new obedience 1 Cor. 5. 7, 8. Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened; for even Christ our Passeover is sacrificed for us. v. 8. Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice, and wickednese, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.; and by renewing the exercise of these graces 1 Cor. 11. 25, 26,—28. After the same manner also he took the Cup when he had supped, saying, This Cup is the New Testament in my blood; this do ye, as often as ye do it in remembrance of me. v. 26. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this Cup, ye shew the Lords death till he come—v. 28. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. Heb. 10 21, 22-24. And having an High Priest over the house of God, v. 22. Let us draw near with a true heart, in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water:—v. 24. And let us consider one another, to provoke unto love, and to good works. Psal. 26. 6. I will wash mine hands in innocency, so will I compass thine altar, O Lord., by serious meditation 1 Cor. 11. 24. 25. And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat, this is my body which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. v. 25. After the same manner also he took the cup, saying, This, &c. —This do ye, as often as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. [Page 134] and fervent prayer 2 Ohr. 30. 18, 19. For a multitude of the people, even many of Ephraim, and Manasseh, Issachar and Zebulun, had not cleansed themselves: yet did they eat the Passeover otherwise then it was written, but Hezekiah prayed for them, saying, The good Lord pardon every one, V. 19.] That prepareth his heart to seek God, the Lord God of his fathers, though he be not cleansed according to the purification of the Sanctuary. Mat. 26. 26. And as they were eating Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, &c..

Q. May one who doubteth of his being in Christ, and of his due preparation, come to the Lords Supper?

A. One who doubteth of his being in Christ, or of his due preparation to the Sacrament of the Lords Supper, may have true interest in Christ, though he be not yet assured thereof Isa 50. 10. Who is among you that feareth the Lord, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness and hath no light? let him trust in the Name of the Lord, and stay upon his God. 1 Joh. 5. 13. These things have I written unto you that believe on the Name of the Son of God, that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the Name of the Son of God. Psal. 88. throughout. Psal. 77 from ver. 1. to the 12. I cryed unto God with my voice, &c.—V. 3.] I remembred God, and was troubled, &c.—V. 4.] Thou boldest mine eyes waking, &c—V. 7.] Will the Lord cast off for ever▪—Is his mercy clean gone for ever! Doth his promise fail for evermore?—V. 10] And I said, This is mine infirmity: but I will remember the years of the right hand of the most High, &c. —Jonah 2. 4.-7. Then I said, I am cast out of thy sight; yet I will look again towards thine holy Temple.—V. 7.] When my soul fainted within me, I remembred the Lord, and my prayers came in unto thee into thine holy Temple.; and in Gods account, hath it, if he be duly affected with the apprehension of the want of it Isa. 54. 7, 8, 9, 10. For a small moment have I forsaken thee, but with great mercies will I gather thee. V. 8.] In a little wrath I hid my face from thee, but with everlastinng kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the Lord thy redeemer. V. 9] For this is as the waters of Noah unto me; for as I have sworn that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth; so have I sworn that I would not be wroth with thee, nor rebuke thee. V. 10.] For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed, but my kindnesse shall not depart from thee, nor shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee. Mat. 5. 3, 4. Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven. V. 4.] Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Psal. 31. 22. For I said in mine hast, I am cut off from before thine eyes; nevertheless, thou heardest the voice of my supplication, when I cryed unto thee. Psal. 73. 13.-22, 23. Verily I have cleansed my heart in vain, and washed mine hands in innocency.—V. 22.] So foolish was I and ignorant; I was as a beast before thee. V. 23.] Nevertheless I am continually with thee; thou hast holdenn me by my right hand., and unfainedly desires to be found in Christ Phil. 3. 8▪ 9. Yea doubtlesse, and I account all things but losse for the excellency of the knowledg of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ. V. 9.] And be found in him, 10: having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith. Psal. 10. 17.—Lord, thou hast heard the desire of the humble; thou wi [...]t prepare their heart, thou wilt cause thine ear to hear. Psal. 43. 1, 2-5—Judge me, O God, and plead my cause against &c.—V. 2.] For thou art the God of my strength, why dost thou cast me off? &c.—V. 5.] Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God; for I shall yet praise him who is the health of my countenance and my God., and to depart [Page 135] from iniquity 2 Tim 2. 19. Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his, and let every one that nameth the Name of Christ depart from iniquity. Isa 50. 10. Who is among you that feareth the Lord, that obeyeth the voice of his servant, that walketh in darkness and hath no light? let him trust in the Name of the Lord, and stay him upon his God. Psal. 66. 18, 19, 20. If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me. V. 19.] But verily God hath heard me, he hath attended to the voice of my prayer. V. 20.] Blessed be God who hath not turned away my prayer nor his mercy from me.: in which case (because promises are made, and this Sacrament is appointed for the relief even of weak and doubting Christians Isa. 40. 11.-19.-31. He shall feed his flock like a Shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those which are with yong.—V. 29.] He giveth power to the faint, and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. V. 31.] But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as Eagles, they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk, and not faint. Mat. 11. 28. Come unto me all ye that labour, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Mat. 12. 20. A bruised read shall he not break, and smoking flax shall he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory. Mat. 26. 28. For this is my blood of the New Testament which is shed for many, for the remission of sins., he is to bewail his unbelief Mar. 9. 24. And straitway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe, help thou mine unbelief.; and labour to have his doubts resolved Act. 2. 37. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their hearts, and said unto Peter, and the rest of the Apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Act. 16. 30.—And he brought them out, and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?, and so doing he may and ought to come to the Lords Supper, that he may be further strengthened Rom. 4. 11. And he received the sign of Circumcision, a Seal of the righteousness of the faith which he had being yet uncircumcised, that he might be the father of all them that believe, though they be not circumcised, that righteousness might be imputed unto them also. 1 Cor. 11. 28. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that Bread, and drink of that Cup..

Q. May any who profess the faith, and desire to come to the Lords Supper, be kept from it?

A. Such as are found to be ignorant, or scandalous, notwithstanding their profession of the Faith, and desire to come to the Lords Supper, may and ought to be kept from that Sacrament by the power which Christ hath left in his Church 1 Cor. 11. 27 to the end. Wherefore, whosoever shall eat this Bread, and drink this Cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. V. 28.] But let a man examine himself, and so, &c.—V. 29.] For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lords body. V. 30] For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep V. 31.] For if we would judg our selves, we should not be judged, &c.—Compared with Mat. 7. 6. Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast you your pearls before swine, least they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rent you. And with 1 Cor. 5. to the end. And with Jude v. 23. And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire, hating even the garment spotted with the flesh. And with 1 Tim. 5. 22. Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partakers of other mans sins. Keep thy self pure., until they receive instruction, and [Page 136] manifest their reformation 2 Cor. 2. 7. So that contrariwise ye ought to forgive him, and comfort him, least perhaps such a one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow..

Q. What is required of them that receive the Sacrament of the Lords Supper in the time of the administration of it?

A. It is required of them that receive the Sacrament of the Lords Supper, that during the time of the administration of it, with all holy reverence and attention they wait upon God in that Ordinance Lev. 10. 3. Then Moses said unto Aaron, This is that which the Lord spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people will I be glorified. Heb. 12. 28. Wherefore we receiving a Kingdom that cannot be moved, let us have grace whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence, and godly fear. Psal. 5. 7. But as for me, I will come into thy house in the multitude of thy mercies, and in thy fear will I worship towards thy holy Temple. 1 Cor. 11. 17-26, 27. Now i [...] this that I declare unto you I praise you not, that ye come together not for the better, but for the worse.—V. 26. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lords death till he come V. 27. Wherefore, whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord., diligently observe the sacramental Elements and actions Exod. 24. 8. And Moses took the blood and sprinkled it on the people, and said, Behold the blood of the Covenant which the Lord hath made with you concerning all these words. Compared with Mat. 26. 28. For this is my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins., heedfully discern the Lords body 1 Cor. 11. 29. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himsel [...], not discerning the Lords body., and affectionately meditate on his death and sufferings Luk. 22. 19. —This do in remembrance of me., and thereby stir up themselves to a vigorous exercise of their graces 1 Cor. 11. 26. For as often as ye eat this Bread, and drink this Cup, ye shew the Lords death till he come. 1 Cor. 10. 3, 4, 5-11-14. And did all eat the same Spiritual meat; V. 4. And did all drink the same Spiritual drink; for they drank of that Spiritual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ. V. 5 But with many of them God was not well pleased; for they were overthrown in the wildernesse▪—V. 11. Now all these things hapned unto them for ensamples; and they are written for our admonition upon whom the ends of the world are come. V. 14 Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry., in judging themselves 1 Cor. 11. 31 i. For if we would judge our selves, we should not be judged., and sorrowing for sin Ze [...]h. 12. 10. And I will pour out upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and supplication, and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for him, as one mourneth for his only son; and be in bitternesse for him, as one that is in bitternesse for his first-born., in earnest hungring and thirsting after Christ Rev. 22. 17. And the Spirit, and the Bride say, Come. And let him that heareth, say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the waters of life freely., feeding on him by faith Jo [...] 6▪ 35. And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life. He that cometh to me shall never hunger, and he that believeth on me shall never thirst., receiving [Page 137] of his fulness Joh. 1. 16. And of his fulness have we all received, and grace for grace., trusting in his merits Phil. 3. 9. And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the Law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith, rejoycing in his love (x), giving thanks for his grace Psal. 22. 26. The meek shall eat and be satisfied, they shall praise the Lord that seek him; your heart shall live for ever., in renewing of their covenant with God Ier. 50. 5. They shall ask the way to Zion, with their faces thitherward, saying, come and let us joyn our selves to the Lord in a perpetual covenant, that shall not be forgotten. Psal. 55. Gather my Saints together unto me, those that have made a covenant with me by sacrifice., & love to all the Saints Act. 2. 42. And they continued stedfastly in the Apostles doctrine, and fellowship, and breaking of bread, and in prayers. (*) Psal. 63. 4, 5. Thus will I bless thee while I live, I will lift up mine hands in thy name. v. 5.] My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness and my mouth shall praise thee with joyful lips. 2 Cor. 30. 21. And the children of Israel that were present at Jerusalem, kept the feast of unleavened bread seven dayes, with great gladness; and the Levites, and the Priests praised the Lord day by day, singing with loud instruments to the Lord▪

Q. What is the duty of Christians after they have received the Sacrament of the Lords Supper?

A. The duty of Christians after they have received the Sacrament of the Lords Supper, is, seriously to consider how they have behaved themselves therein, and with what success Psal. 28. 7. The Lord is my strength and my shield, my heart trusted in him, and I am helped, therefore my heart greatly rejoyceth, and with my song will I praise him. Psal▪ 85. 8. I will hear what the Lord will speak, for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly. 1 Cor. 11. 17-30. 31. Now in this that I declare unto you, I praise you not, that ye come together, not for the better, but for the worse—v. 30.] For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. v. 31.] For if we would judg our selves, we should not be judged.; if they find quickning and comfort, to bless God for it 2 Chr. 30. 21. 22, 23-25, 26. And the children of Israel that was present at Jerusalem kept the feast of Unleavened bread seven dayes with great gladness: and the Levites and the priests praised the Lord day by day; singing with loud instruments to the Lord,—&c. —Act. 2. 42-46, 47. And they continued stedfastly in the Apostles doctrine, and fellowship, and breaking of bread, and in prayer—v. 46.] And they continuing daily with own accord in the Temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness, and singleness of heart; v. 47.] Praising God, and having favour with all the people, &c., beg the continuance of it Psal. 36. 10. O continue thy loving kindness unto them that know thee, and thy righteousnesse to the upright in heart. Cant. 3. 4. It was but a little that I passed from [...]hem, bu [...] I found him whom my soul loveth, I held him, and would not let him goe, untill I had brought him into my mothers house, and into the chamber of her that conceived me. 1 Cor. 29. 18. O Lord God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel our fathers, keep this for ever in the imagination of the thoughts of the heart of thy people, and pepare their heart unto thee., watch against relapses 1 Cor. 10. 3, 4, 5-11. And did all eat the same spi [...]itual meat, v. 4.] And did all drink the same spiritual drink; (for they drink of that same spi [...]itual Rock that followed them, and that Rock was Christ) v. 5.] But with many of them God was not well pleased, for they were overthrown in the wilderness.—v. 1 [...].] Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest be fall:, fulfill their vowes Psal. 50. 14. Offer unto God, thanksgiving, and pay thy vowes unto the most High., and incourage themselves to a frequent attendance on that ordinance [Page 138] 1 Cor. 11. 25, 26 —Do this as often as ye drink it in remembrance of me. v. 26.] For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye shew the Lords death till he come. Act. 2. 42.-46. And they continued sted fastly in the Apostles doctrine, and fellowship, and breaking of bread, and in prayer—v. 46.] And they continuing daily with one accord in the Temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singlenesse of heart., but if they find no present benefit, more exactly to review their preparation to, and carriage at the Sacrament Cant. 5. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, then to give the sacrifice of fools: for they consider not that they do evil. v. 2.] Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thy heart be hasty to utter any thing before God, &c. v. 3.] For a dream cometh through multitude of business, and a fools voice is known by multitude of words. v. 4.] When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools, pay that thou hast vowed. v. 5.] Better is it that thou shouldst not vow, then that thou shouldst vow, and not pay. v. 6▪] Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin, neither say thou before the Angel, that it was an errour; wherefore should God be angry at thy voice, and destroy the work of thine hands?; in both which if they can approve themselves to God and their own consciences, they are to wait for the fruit of it in due time Psal. 123. 1, 2. Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, O thou that dwellest in the heavens. v. 2.] Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their Masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her Mistress; so wait our eyes upon the Lord our God, until he have mercy upon us. Psal 42. 5-8. Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted with me? hope thou in God, for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance—v. 8.] For the Lord will command his loving kindness in the day time, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life. Psal. 43. 3, 4, 5. O send ou [...] thy light and thy truth; let them lead me, let them bring me into thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles. v. 4.] Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God, my exceeding joy; yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God, my God—v. 5] Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God, for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God., but if they see they have failed in either, they are to be humbled 1 Chr. 30. 18, 19. For a multitude of the people, even many of Ephraim, and Manasseh, Issachar, and Zebulon, bad not cleansed themselves; yet did they eat the Passeover, otherwise then it was written. But H [...]zekiah prayed for them, saying, The good Lord pardon every one, v. 19.] That prepareth his heart to seek God, the Lord God of his fathers, though he be not cleansed according to the purification of the sanctuary. Isai. 1. 16-18. Wash you, make you clean, put away the evil of your doings f [...]om before mine eyes; cease to do evil—v. 18. Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord, though your sins be as skarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool., and to attend upon it afterward with more care and diligence 2 Cor 7. 11. For behold this selfe same thing that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea what cleering of your selves, yea what indignation, yea what fear, yea what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea what revenge? in all things ye have approved your selves to be cleer in this matter. 1 Chr. 15. 12, 13, 14. And David said unto them, ye are the chief of the Fathers of the Levites, sanctifie your selves, both ye, and your brethen, that ye may bring up the ark of the Lord God of Israel unto the place that I have prepared for it. v. 13.] For because ye did it not at the first, the Lord our God made a breach upon us, for that we sought him not after the due order. v. 14.] So the Priests and Levites sanctified themselves, to bring up the Ark of the Lord God of Israel..

Q. Wherein do the Sacraments of Baptisme and the Lords Supper agree?

A. The Sacraments of Baptism and the Lords Supper, [Page 139] agree, in that the author of both is God Mat. 28. 19. Go therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name, &c. 1 Cor. 11. 23. For I have received of the Lord that which I also delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus in the same night wherein he was betrayed, took bread, &c., the spiritual part of both is Christ and his benefits Rom. 6. 3, 4. Know ye not that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ, were baptized into his death? v. 4.] Therefore we are buried with him by bapitsme into death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of his Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. 1 Cor. 10. 16. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? the bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?, both are seals of the same Covenant Rom. 4. 11. And he received the sign of circumcision, a seal of the righteousness of faith, which he had, being yet uncircumcised, that he might be the father of all them who believe, though they be not circumcised, that righteousness might be imputed unto them also; Compared with Col. 2. 11, 12. In whom also ye were circumcised with the Circumcision made without hands, in putting away the body of the sins of the flesh, by the cirumcision of Christ, buried with him in baptisme, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God who hath raised him from the dead. Mat. 26. 27, 28. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of this; v. 28. For this is my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins., are to be dispensed by Ministers of the Gospel and by none other Joh. 1. 33. And I knew him not, but he that sent me to baptize with water, the same said unto me, upon whom thou shalt see the Spirit descending, &c. —Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, Baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and the Holy Ghost. 1 Cor. 11. 23. For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus the same night wherein he was betrayed, took bread, &c. 1 Cor. 4. 1. Let a man so account of us, as of the Ministers of Christ, and Stewards of the mysteries of God. Heb. 5. 4. And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron., and to be continued in the Church of Christ until his second coming Mat. 28. 19, 20. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing, &c.—v. 20. Teaching them to observe all things which I command you; and loe, I am with you even to the end of the world. 1 Cor. 11. 26. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye shew the Lords death till he come.

Q. Wherein do the Sacraments of Baptisme and the Lords Supper differ?

A. The Sacraments of Baptisme and the Lords Supper differ, in that, Baptisme is to be administred but once, with water; to be a signe and seal of our regeneration and ingrafting into Christ Mat. 3. 1 [...]. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but he that cometh after me, &c. Tit. 3. 5. Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the holy Ghost. Gal. 3. 27. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ., and that even to infants Gen. 17. 7.-9. And I will establish my Covenant between me and thee, and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting Covenant, to be a God unto thee, and thy seed after thee.—v. 9.] And God said unto Abraham, Thou shalt keep my Covenant therefore, thou and thy seed after thee in their generations. Act. 2. 38, 39. Then Peter said unto them, Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus for the remission of sin, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. v. 39.] For the promise is unto you and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. 1 Cor 7. 14. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband; else were your children unclean, but now they are holy. whereas the Lords Supper is to be administred often, in the Elements of bread and wine, to represent and exhibit Christ [Page 140] as spiritual nourishment to the soul 1 Cor. 11. 23, 24, 25, 26. I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus the same night wherein he was betrayed took bread. v. 24.] And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat, this is my body which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. v. 25.] After the same manner also he took the Cup, when he had supped, saying, This Cup is the New Testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. v. 26.] For as oft as ye eat this bread, &c., and to confirm our continuance and growth in him 1 Cor. 10. 16. The Cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the Communion of The bread which we break, is it not the Communion of the body of Christ?, and that onely to such as are of years and ability to examine themselves 1 Cor. 11. 28. 29. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that Bread, and drink of that Cup. v. 29.] For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lords body..

Q. What is Prayer?

A. Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God Psal. 62. 8. Trust in him at all times ye people, pour out your hearts before him: God is a refuge for us., in the Name of Christ Joh. 16. 23. And in that day ye shall ask me nothing, verily I say unto you, whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you., by the help of his Spirit Rom. 8. 26. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities, for we know not what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit it self maketh intercession for us, with groanings that cannot be uttered., with confession of our sins Psal. 32. 5, 6. I acknowledged my sin unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid; I said I will confess my transgressions, and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. v. 6.] For this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee, in a time when thou maist be found, surely, &c. Dan. 9. 4. And I prayed unto the Lord my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, &c., and thankful acknowledgment of his mercies Phil. 4. 6. Be careful for nothing, but in every thing, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God..

Q. Are we to pray unto God onely?

A. God only being able to search the hearts King 8. 39. Then hear thou in heaven thy dwelling place, and forgive, and do, and give to every man according to his wayes, whose heart thou knowest: for thou, even thou onely knowest the hearts of all the children of men. Act. 1. 24. And they prayed, and said, Thou Lord who knowest the hearts of [...]oll men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen. Rom. 8. 27. And he that sea [...]cheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the Saints according to the will of God., hear the requests Psal. 65. 2. O thou that hearest prayers, to thee shall all flesh come. pardon the sins Mic. 7. 18. Who is a God like unto thee that pardoneth iniquity, and passeth by the transgression, of the remnant of his inheritance, &c., and fulfil the desires of all Psal. 145. 18, 19. The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. v. 19.] He will fulfil the desires of them that fe [...]r him, he also will hear their cry, and will save them. and only to be believed in Rom. 10. 14. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? &c. and worshipped with religious worship Mat 4. 10. Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence Satan, for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve., prayer, which is a special part thereof 1 Cor▪ 1. 2. Unto the Church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be Saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs, and ours., is to [Page 141] be made by all to him alone Psal. 50. 15. Call upon me in the day of trouble, I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorifie me., and to none other Rom. 10. 14. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? &c.

Q. What is it to pray in the name of Christ?

A. To pray in the Name of Christ, is, in obedience to his command, and in confidence on his promises to ask mercy for his sake Ioh. 14. 13, 14. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son [...] v. 14.] If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it. Ioh. 26. 24. Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and receive, that your joy may be full. Dan. 9. 14. Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon thy Sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lords sake., not by bare mentioning of his Name Mat. 7. 21. Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the Kingdom of heaven, but he that doth the will of my father which is in heaven., but by drawing our incouragement to pray, and our boldness, strength, and hope of acceptance in prayer from Christ and his mediation Heb. 4. 14, 15, 16. Seeing then that we have a great High Priest, that is passed into the heavens, Iesus the Son of God; let us hold fast our profession. v. 15.] For we have not an High Priest which cannot be touched with a feeling of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. v. 16.] Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. 1 Ioh. 5. 13, 14, 15. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God, that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. v. 14.] And this is the confidence that we have in him, that if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us. v. 15.] And if we know that he heareth whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.

Q. Why are we to pray in the name of Christ?

A. The sinfulness of man, and his distance from God by reason thereof, being so great as that we can have no accesse into his presence without a Mediatour Ioh. 14. 6. Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by me: Isa. 59. 2. But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. Eph. 3 12. In whom ye have boldness, and access with confidence, by the faith of him.; and there being none in heaven or earth appointed to, or fit for that glorious work, but Christ alone Ioh. 6. 27 Labour not for the meat that perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the son of man shall give unto you, for him hath God the Father sealed. Heb. 7. 25, 26, 27. Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost, that come unto God by him, seeing that he ever liveth to make intercession for them. v. 26.] For such an high Priest became us who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher then the heavens, v. 27.] Who needeth not daily as those high Priests, to offer up sacrifice first for his own sins, and then for the peoples; for this he did once, when he offered up himself. 1 Tim. 2. 5. For there is one God, one Mediator between God and man, the man Christ Jesus.; we are to pray in no other name but his onely Col. 3. 17. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him. Heb. 13. 15. By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is the fruits of our lips, giving thanks in his name.

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Q. How doth the Spirit help us to pray?

A. We not knowing what to pray for as we ought, the Spirit helpeth our infirmities, by inabling us to understand both for whom, and what, and how prayer is to be made, and by working and quickning in our hearts (although not in all persons, nor at all times in the same measure) those apprehensions, affections, and graces, which are requisite for the right performance of that duty Rom. 8. 26, 27. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities; for we know not what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit it self maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. v. 27.] And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the Saints according to the will of God. Psal. 10. 17. Lord, thou hast heard the desire of the humble; thou wilt prepare their heart; thou wilt cause thine ear to hear. Zech. 12. 10. And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem the Spirit of grace and Supplications, and they shall look upon me whom they have pierced, and mourn, &c.—.

Q. For whom are we to pray?

A. We are to pray for the whole Church of Christ, upon earth Ephes. 6. 18. Praying also alwayes with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance, and supplication, for all Saints. Psal. 28. 9. Save thy people, and bless thine inheritance; feed them also, and lift them up for ever., for magistrates 1 Tim. 2. 1, 2. I exhort therefore; that first of all, supplication, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men. v. 2.] For Kings, and for all that are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. and Ministers Col. 4. 3. Withall praying also for us, that God would open to us a door of utterance, to speak the Mysteries of Christ, for which I am in bonds., for our selves Gen. 32. 11. Deliver me, I pray thee, from the hand of my brother, from the hand of Esau; for I fear him, least he will come and smite me, &c., our brethren Jam. 5. 16. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that you may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much,, yea our enemies Mat. 5. 44. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them that despightfully use you, and persecute you., and for all sorts of men living 1 Tim. 2. 1, 2. See above in [u], or that shall live hereafter Joh. 17. 20. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word. 2 Sam. 7. 29. Therefore now let it please thee to bless the house of thy servant, that it may continue for ever before thee, for thou, O Lord God hast spoken it, and with thy blessing let the house of thy sevant be blessed for ever. but not for the dead 2 Sam. 12. 21, 22, 23. Then said his servants unto him, What thing is this that thou hast done? thou didst fast and weep for the child while it was alive, but when the child was dead, thou didst rise and eat bread. v. 22.] And he said, While the child was yet alive, I fasted and wept: for I said, Who can tell whether God will be gracious to me, that the child may live? v. 23.] But now he is dead, wherefore should I fast? can I bring him back again? I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me. nor for those that are known to have sinned [Page 143] the sin unto death 1 Ioh. 5. 16. If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.

Q. For what things are we to pray?

A. We are to pray for all things tending to the glory of God Mat. 6. 9. After this manner therefore pray ye, Our father which art in▪ heaven, hallowed be thy Name., the welfare of the Church Psal. 51. 18. Do good in thy good pleasure unto Sion, build thou the walls of Jerusalem. Psal. 122. 6. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem; they shall prosper that love thee., our own Mat. 7. 11. If ye then being evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more shall your father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?, or others good Psal. 125. 4. Do good, O Lord, to those that be good; to them that are upright in their heart., but not for any thing that is unlawful 1 Joh. 5. 14. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that if we ask any thing according to his will, he heateth us.

Q. How are we to pray?

A. We are to pray with an awful apprehension of the Majesty of God Eccl. 3. 1. Keep thy foot when thou goest to the house of God, and be more ready to hear, then to offer the sacrifice of fools; for they consider not that they do evil., & deep sense of our own unworthiness Gen. 18. 27. And Abraham said, Behold now I have taken upon me to speak unto the Lord who am but dust and ashes. Gen. 32. 10 I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, and of all the truth which thou hast shewn unto thy servant, &c. necessities Luk. 15. 17, 18, 19. And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants in my fathers house have bread enough, and to spare, and I perish with hunger. v. 18.] I will arise and go to my father, and say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee v. 19.] And am no more worthy to be called thy son, make me as one of thy hired servants., & sins Luk. 18. 13, 14. And the Publican standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes to heaven, but smote upon his brest, saying, Lord, be merciful to me a sinner. v. 14.] I tell you, This man went down to his house justified rather then the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased, and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted. with penitent Psal. 51. 17. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit, a broken and a contrite heart, O God, wilt thou not despise., thankful Phil. 4. 6. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing, by prayer, and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God., and inlarged hearts 1 Sam. 1. 15. And Hannah answered, and said, No, my Lord, I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit; I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but have poured out my soul before the Lord. with understanding 1 Cor. 14. 15. What is it then? I will pray with the Spirit, and will pray with understanding also. faith Mar. 11. 24. Therefore I say unto you, Whatsoever things ye desire when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. Jam, 1. 6. But let him ask in faith, nothing doubting; for he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea, driven with the wind and tossed. sincerity Psal. 145. 18, The Lord is nigh unto all that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. Psal. 17. 1. Hear the right, O Lord, attend unto my cry, give ear unto my prayer, that goeth not out of fained lips. [Page 144] fervency Jam. 5. 16.—the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much., love 1 Tim. 2. 8. I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands without wrath, and doubting., and perseverance Eph. 6. 18. Praying alwayes with all prayer and supplication in the spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance, and supplicotion for all Saints., waiting upon him Mic. 7. 7. Therefore I will look unto the Lord, I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me., with humble submission to his will Mat. 26. 39. And he went a little farther and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, If it be possible, let this cup pass from me; nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt▪

Q. What rule hath God given for our direction in the duty of Prayer?

A. The whole word of God is of use to direct us in the duty of praying 1 Joh. 5. 14. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us.; but the special rule of direction, is that form of Prayer, which our Saviour Christ taught his Disciples, commonly called the Lords Prayer Mat. 6. 9, 10, 11, 12, 13. After this manner therefore pray ye, Our father, &c. —Luk. 11. 2, 3, 4. And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our father, &c.—

Q. How is the Lords Prayer to be used?

A. The Lords Prayer is not onely for direction, as a pattern according to which we are to make other praiers, but may also be used as a prayer, so that it be done with understanding, faith, reverence, and other graces necessary to the right performance of the duty Mat. 6. 9. Compared with Luke 11. 2. See above in the letter [b.]

Q. Of how many parts doth the Lords Prayer consist?

A. The Lords Prayer consists of three parts, a Preface, Petitions, and a Conclusion.

Q. What doth the Preface of the Lords Prayer teach us?

A. The Preface of the Lords Prayer [contained in these words, Our Father which art in heaven Mat. 6. 9.] teacheth us, when we pray, to draw near to God with confidence of his fatherly goodness, and our interest therein Luk. 11. 13. If you then being evil know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your heavenly father give the holy Spirit to them that ask him? Rom. 8. 15. For ye have not received the Spirit of bondage again to fear, but ye have received the Spirit of Adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father., with [Page 145] reverence, and all other child-like dispositions Isa. 46. 9. Be not wrath very sore, O Lord, neither remember our iniquities for ever: behold, see, we beseech thee, we are all thy people., heavenly affections Psal. 123. 1. Unto thee lift I up mine eyes, O thou that dwellest in the heavens. Lam. 3. 41. Let us lift up our heart, and our hands unto God in the heavens., and due apprehensions of his soveraign power, Majesty, and gracious condescention Isa. 63. 15, 16. Look down from heaven, and behold from the habitation of thy holiness, and of thy glory▪ Where is thy zeal, and thy strength, the sounding of thy bowels, and thy mercies towards me? are they restrained? v. 16.] Doubtless thou art our Father; though Abraham be ignorant of us, and Israel acknowledge us not, thou, O Lord, art our Father, our redeemer; thy Name is from everlasting. Neh. 1. 4, 5, 6. And it came to pass when I heard these words, that I sa [...]e down and wept, and mourned certain dayes, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven. v. 5.] And said, I beseech thee, O Lord God of heaven, the God, that keepeth Covenant and mercy for them that love him, and observe his commandments. v. 6.] Let thine eat be now attentive, and thine eyes op [...]n, that thou mayest hear the prayer of thy servant, which I pray before thee now, day and night for the children of Israel thy servants, &c.; as also to pray with and for others Act. 12. 5. Peter therefore was kept in prison; but prayer was made without ceasing of the Church unto God for him..

Q. VVhat do we pray for in the first Petition?

A. In the first petition, [which is, Hallowed be thy name Mat. 6. 9.,] acknowledging the utter inability and indisposition that is in our selves & all men to honor God aright 2 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. Psalm 51. 15. O Lord, open thou my lips, and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise. we pray that God would by his grace inable and incline us and others to know, to acknowledg, and highly to esteem him Psal. 67. 2, 3. That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations. v. 3.] Let the people praise thee, O God, let all the people praise thee his titles Psal. 83. 18. That men may know that thou whose Name alone is Jehovah, art the most High over all the earth. attributes Psal. 86. 10, 11, 12, 13.-15. For thou art great, and dost wondrous things; thou art God alone. v. 11.] Teach me thy way, O Lord; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name. v. 12.] I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart, and will glorifie thy Name for evermore. v. 13.] For great is thy mercy towards me, and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell.—v. 15.] But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, long suffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth. ordinances, word 2 Thes. 3. 1. Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you. Psal. 147. 19, 20. He sheweth his word unto Jacob, his statutes and judgments unto Israel. v. 20.] He hath not dealt so with any nation; and as for his judgments, they have not known them. Praise ye the Lord. Psal. 138. 1, 2, 3. I will praise thee with my whole heart; before the Gods will I sing praise unto thee. v. 2.] I will worship towards thy holy Temple, and praise thy Name, for thy loving kindness, and for thy truth; for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy Name v. 3.] In the day when I cryed thou answerest me, and strengthnedst me with strength in my soul. 2 Cor. 2. 14, 15. Now thanks be to God, who alwayes causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledg by us in every place. v. 15.] For we are to God a sweet savour of Christ in them that are saved, and in them that perish. [Page 146] works, and whatsoever he is pleased to make himself known by Psal. 145. throughout. I will extoll thee O God, my King, &c. —Psal. 8. throughout. O Lord, our Lord, how excellent is thy Name in all the earth! &c.—, and to glorifie him in thought, word Psal. 103. 1. Bless the Lord, O my Soul, and all that is within me bless his holy Name. Psal. 19. 14. Let the words of my mouth, and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord our strength, and our Redeemer., and deed Phil. 1. 9.-11. And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledg, and in all judgment.—v. 11.] Being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ unto the glory and praise of God.; that he would prevent and remove Atheism Psal. 67. 1, 2, 3, 4. God be merciful unto us, and bless us, and cause his face to shine upon us. v. 2.] That thy way may be known upon earth, and thy saving health among all Nations. v. 3.] Let the people praise thee, O God, let all the people praise thee. v. 4.] O let the Nations be glad and rejoice; for thou shalt judge the people righteously, and govern the Nations upon earth., ignorance Eph. 1. 17, 18. That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of Glory, may give unto you the sp [...]rit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledg of him. v. 18.] The eyes of your understanding being enlightned, that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the Saints., idolatry Psal. 97. 7. Confounded be all they that serve graven Images, that boast themselves of Idols: worship him all ye gods., profaneness Psal. 74. 18.-22, 23. Remember this, that the enemy hath reproached, O Lord, and that the foolish people have blasphemed thy Name.—v. 22.] Arise, O God, plead thine own cause; remember how the foolish man reproacheth thee daily. v. 23.] Forget not the voice of mine enemies, the tumult of those that rise up against thee encreaseth continually., and whatsoever is dishonourable to him 2 Kings 19. 15, 16. And H [...]z [...]kiah prayed unto the Loid, and said, O Lord God of Israel, which dwellest between the Cherubims, thou art the God, even thou alone, of all the Kingdoms of the earth: thou hast made heaven and earth. v. 16.] Lord bow down thine ear and hear, open, Lord, thine eyes and see, and hear the words of Sennacherib which hath sent him to reproach the living God.; and by his over-ruling providence, direct and dispose of all things to his own glory 2 Chron. 20. 6.-10 11, 12. And [Jehoshaphat] said, O Lord God of our fathers, Art not thou God in heaven, and rulest not thou over all the Kingdoms of the heathen? and in thine hand is there not power and might, so that none is able to withstand thee?—v. 10.] And now behold the children Ammon, and Moab, &c. v. 11.] Behold, I say, how they reward us, to come to cast us out of our possessions which thou hast given us to inherit. v. 12.] O our God, wilt thou not judge them? for we have no might against this great company that cometh against us; neither know we what to do, but our eyes are upon thee. Psal. 83. throughout. Keep thou not silence, O God, hold not thy peace, &c. —Psal. 140. 4.-8. Reep me, O Lord, from the hands of the wicked, preserve me from the violent man, who have purposed to overthrow my goings.—v. 8.] Grant not, O Lord, the desires of the wicked; further not his wicked devices, lest they exalt themselves..

Q. What do we pray for in the second Petition?

A. In the second Petition, (which is, Thy Kingdom come Matth. 6. 10.,) acknowledging our selves and all mankind to be by nature under the dominion of sinne and Satan [Page 147] Eph. 2. 2, 3. Wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the Spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience. v. 3.] Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past, in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh, and of the mind, and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others.; we pray, that the kingdom of sin and Satan may be destroyed Psal. 68. 1.-18. Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered; let them also that have him flee before him.—v. 18.] Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive, thou hast received gifts for men, yea, for the rebellious also; that the Lord God might dwell among them. Rev. 12. 10, 11. And I heard a loud voice, saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the Kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ; for the accuser of our brethren is cast out, which accused them before God day and night. v. 11.] And they overcame by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony, and they loved not their lives unto the death., the Gospel propagated throughout the world 2 Thes. 3. 1. Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you., the Jewes called Rom. 10. 1. Brethren, my hearts desire and prayer to God is, That they might he saved., the fulness of the Gentiles brought in John 17 9.-20. I pray for them, I pray not for the world; but for them that thou hast given me, for they are thine.—v. 20.] Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word. Rom. 11. 25, 26. For I would not brethren, that ye should be ignorant of this mystery, ( [...]est ye should be wise in your own conceits) that blindness in part is hapned to Israel, until the fulness of the Gentiles be come in. v. 26.] And so all Israel sha [...]l be saved, as it is written, There shall come out of Zion the deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob. Psal. 67. throughout. God be merciful unto us, and bless us, and cause his face, &c—, the Church furnished with all Gospel officers and ordinances Matth 9. 38. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest that he will send forth labourers into his harvest 2 Thes. 3. 1. Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have a free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you., purged from corruption Mal. 3. 1, 11. For from the rising of the sun, even to the going down of the same, my Name shall be great among the Gentiles, and in every place incense shall be offered up unto my Name, and a pure offering: for my Name shall be great among the Heathen, saith the Lord of hosts. Zeph. 3. 9. For then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the Name of the Lord, to serve him with one consent., countenanced and maintained by the civil magistrate 1 Tim. 2. 1, 2. I exhort therefore, that first [...]f all supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all men. v. 2.] For Kings, and for all that are in au [...]hority, th [...]t me may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty., that the ordinances of Christ may be purely dispensed, and made effectual to the converting of those that are yet in their sins, and the confirming, comforting and building up of those that are already converted Act. 4. 29, 30. And now, Lord, behold their threatnings, and grant unto thy servan [...]s, that with all boldness they may speak thy word; v. 30.] By stretching forth [...]hine hand to heal, and that signes and wonders may be done by the Name of thy Holy Child Jesus. Eph. 6. 18, 19, 20. Praying alwayes with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance, and supplication for all saints. v. 19.] And for me, th [...]t utterance may be given me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the Gentiles. v. 20.] For which I am an Ambassador in bonds. that therein I may speak boldly as I ought to speak. Rom. 15. 29, 30.-32. And I am sure that when I come unto you, I shall come in the fulness of the blessing of the Gospel of Christ. v. 30.] Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christ sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that ye strive together with me, in your prayers to God for me.—v. 32.] That I may come unto you with joy, by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed. 2 Thes. 1. 11. Wherefore we pray alwayes for you, that our God would count you worthy of his calling, and fulfil all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power. 2 Thes. 2. 16, 17. Now our Lord Jesus Christ himself, and God even our Father, which h [...]th loved us and given us everlasting consolation, and good hope through grace. v. 17.] Comfort your heart and stablish you in every good word and work.; that Christ would rule in our hearts here Eph. 3. from ver. 14. to the 21. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. v. 15. Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named. v. 16.] That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his spirit in the inner man. v. 17.] That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith, that ye being rooted and grounded in love. v. 18] May be able to comprehend with all saints, what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; v. 19. And to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledg; that ye might be filled with the fulness of God. v. 20.] Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, &c.—, and hasten the time of his second coming, and our reigning with him for ever Rev. 22. 20. He which testifieth these things saith, surely I come qu [...]ckly, Amen, even so come Lord Jesus.; and that he would be pleased so to exercise the kingdom of his power in all the world, as may best conduce to these ends Isai. 64. 1, 2. O that thou wouldst rend the heavens, that thou wouldst come down, that the mountains might flow down at thy presence! v. 2.] As when the melting fire burneth, the fire causeth the waters to boil to make thine name known to thine adversaries, that the nations may tremble at thy presence. Rev. 4. 8, 9, 10, 11. And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him, and they were full of eyes within, and they rest not day and night saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come. v. 9.] And when those beasts give glory, and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever. v. 10.] That four and twenty Elders fall down before him that sat on the throne, and worship him that liveth for ever and ever, and cast their Crowns before the throne, saying. v. 11.] Thou art worthy, O Lord to receive glory, and honour and power; for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are, and were created..

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Q. What do we pray for in the third Petition?

A. In the third petition, [which is, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven Matth. 6. 10.] acknowledging that by nature we and all men are not only utterly unable and unwilling to know and to do the will of God Rom. 7. 18. For I know that in me, that is in my flesh, dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. Job 21. 14. Therefore th [...]y say unto God, Depart from us: we desire not the knowledg of thy wayes. 1 Cor. 2. 14. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness unto him; neither can be know them, because they are spiritually discerned., but prone to rebel against his word Rom. 8. 7. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God; for it is not subject to the Law of God, neither indeed can be., to repine and murmur against his Providence Exod. 17. 7. And he called the name of the place Massah and Meriba [...]; because of the chiding of the children of Israel, and because they tempted the Lord, saying, is the Lord among us, or not? Num. 14. 2. And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron: And the whole Congregation said unto them, would God that we had died in the land of Egypt, would God that we had died in this wilderness., and wholly inclined to do the will of the flesh, & of the devil Eph. [...]. 2. Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the ayre, the spirit that now wo [...]keth in the children of disobedience.: We pray, that God would by [Page 149] his Spirit take away from our selves and others, all blindness Eph. 1. 17, 18. That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ the Father of glory may give unto you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledg of him; v. 18.] The eyes of your understanding being enlightned that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the Saints., weakness Eph. 3. 16. That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthned with might, by the Spirit in the inner man, indisposedness Mat. 26. 40, 41. And he cometh to the Disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? v. 41.] Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation, the Spirit indeed is willing but the flesh is weak., and perverseness of heart Jer. 31. 18, 19. I have surely heard Ephraim bemoaning himself thus, Thou hast chastised me, and I was chastised, as a bullock unaccustomed to the yoke. Turn thou me, and I shall be turned; for thou art the Lord my God. v. 19.] Surely, after that I was turned, I repented; and after that I was instructed I smote upon my thigh; I was ashamed, yea even confounded, because I did bear the reproach of my youth., and by his grace make us able and willing to know, do, and submit to his will in all things Psal. 119. 1.-8-35, 36. Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the Lord.—v. 8.] I will keep thy statutes, O forsake me not utterly—v. 35.] Make me to go in the paths of thy commandments, for therein do I delight. v. 36.] Incline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness. Act. 21. 14. And when he would not be perswaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done., with the like humility Mic. 6. 8. He hath shewed thee O man, what is good, and what doth the Lord require of thee but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God., cheerfulness Psal. 100. 2. Serve the Lord with gladness; come before his presence with singing. Job. 1. 21. And [Job] said, Naked came I out of my mothers womb, and naked shall I return thither; the Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord. 2 Sam. 15. 25, 26. And the King said unto Zadok, Carry back the Ark of God into the City; if I shall find favour in the eyes of the Lord, he will bring me again, and shew me both it, and his habitation. v. 26.] But if he say thus, I have no delight in thee, behold, here I am, let him do to me as seemeth him good., faithfulness Isa. 38. 3. And said, Remember now, O Lord, I beseech thee, how I have walked before thee in truth, and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight, and Hezekiah wept sore., diligence Psal. 119. 4, 5. Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. v. 5.] O that my wayes were directed to keep thy statutes., zeal Rom. 12. 11. Not slothful in business, fervent in Spirit, serving the Lord., sincerity Psa. 119. 80. Let my heart be sound in thy statutes, that I be not ashamed., and constancy Psal. 119. 112. I have enclined my heart to perform thy statutes alwayes even to the end., as the Angels do in heaven Isa. 6. 2, 3. Above it stood the Seraphims each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. v. 3.] And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts; the whole earth is full of his glory. Psal. 103. 20, 21. Bless the Lord ye his Angels that excel in strength, and do his commandments hearkning unto the voice of his word. v. 21.] Bless ye the Lord all ye his hosts, ye ministers of his that do his pleasure. Mat. 18. 10. Take heed ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, in heaven there Angels do alwayes behold the face of my Father which is in heaven..

Q. What do we pray for in the fourth Petition?

A. In the fourth Petition, [which is, Give us this day our daily bread Mat. 6. 11.,] acknowledging that in Adam, and by our sin, we have forfeited our right to all the outward blessings of this life, and deserve to be [Page 150] wholy deprived of them by God, and to have them cursed to us in the use of them Gen. 2. 17. But of the Tree of knowledg of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely dye. Gen. 3. 17. And unto Adam he said, because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the Tree, of the which I commanded thee, saying, thou shalt not eat of it; cursed is the ground for thy sake, in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the dayes of thy life. Rom. 8. 20, 21, 22. For the Creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who have subjected the same in hope. V. 12.] Because the Creature of it self also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption, into the glorious liberty of the children of God. V. 22] For we know that the whole Creation groaneth and travelleth in pain together until now. Jer. 5. 25. Your iniquities have turned away these things, and your sins have withholden good things from you. Deut 28. from ver. 15. to the end. But it shall come to pass, if thou wilt not hearken unto the voice of the Lord thy God, to observe to do all his Commandments and statutes which I command thee this day, that all these curses shall come upon thee and overtake thee. V. 16. Cursed shalt thou be in the City, and cursed in the field, and cursed in thy basket, and in thy store, &c. To the end of the chap.; and that neither they of themselves are able to sustain us Deut. 8. 3. And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with Mann [...], which thou knewest not, neither did my fathers know: that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord doth man live., nor we to merit Gen. 32. 10. I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, and of all the truth which thou hast shewed to thy servant &c., or by our own industry to procure them Deut. 8. 17, 9. And thou say in thine heart, My power, and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth; V. 18. But thou shalt remember the Lord thy God; for it is be that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he swear unto thy fathers, as it is this day., but prone to desire Jer. 6. 1 [...]. For from the least of them, to the greatest, every one of them is given to covetousness, &c. Mark 7. 21, 22. For from within, out of the heart of men proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, V. 22. Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, &c.—, get Hos. 12. 7. He is a merchant, the balance of deceit are in his hand, he loveth to oppress., and use them unlawfully Jam. 4. 3. Ye ask and receive not because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.; we pray for our selves and others, that both they and we, waiting upon the providence of God from day to day in the use of lawful means, may, of his free gift, and as to his fatherly wisdome shall seem best, injoy a competent portion of them Gen 43. 12, 13, 14. And take double money in your hand, and the money that was brought again in the mouth of the sacks; p [...]r [...]dven [...]ure it was an oversight. V. 13. Take also your brother, and arise, go unto the man. V. 14. And God Almighty gave you mercy before the man, that he m [...]y send, &c. —Gen. 28. 20. And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, if God will be with me, and keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat and raiment to put on, &c Eph. 4. 28. Let him that stole steal no more, but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth. 2 Thes. 3. 11, 12. For we hear that there are some who walk among you disorderly working not at all, but are busy-bodies. V. 12. Now they that are such, we command and ex [...]ort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. Phil. 4. 6. Be careful f [...]r nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be make known unto God., and have the same continued and blessed unto us in our holy and comfortable use of them 1 Tim. 4. 3, 4, 5. Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe, and know the truth. V. 4. For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving. V. 5. For it is sanctified by the word of God, and prayer., and contentment [Page 151] in them 1 Tim. 6. 6, 7, 8. But goodnesse with contentment is great gain. V. 7.] For we brought nothing into this world; and it is certain we can carry nothing out. V. 8.] And having food and raiment, let us be therewith content.; and be kept from all things that are contrary to our temporal support and comfort Prov. 30. 8, 9. Remove from me vanity and lies; give me neither poverty, nor riches: feed me with food convenient for me. V. 9.] Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, who is the Lord? and lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain..

Q. What do we pray for in the fifth Petion?

A. In the fifth Petition, which is, [Forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors Mat. 6. 12.] ackowledging that we and all others are guilty both of original and actual sin, and thereby become debtors to the justice of God, and that neither we, nor any other creature can make the least satisfaction for that debt Rom. 3. from v. 9. to 22. What then? are we better then they? no in no wise; for we have before proved, both Jew and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; V. 10.] As it is written, There is none righteous, no not one. V. 11.] There is none that understandeth, none that seeketh after God. They are all gone out of the way, &c.—V. 19.]—that every mouth may be stopped, and all the world may become guilty before God. &c. —Mat. 18. 24, 25. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him who owed him ten thousand talent. V. 25.] But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his Lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and his children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. Psal. 130. 3, 4. If thou, Lord, shouldst mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand? V. 4.] But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou maist be feared; we pray for our selves and others, that God of his free grace would, through the obedience and satisfaction of Christ apprehended and applyed by faith, acquit us both from the guilt and punishment of sin Rom. 3. 14. 25, 26. Being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. V. 25.] Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation, through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remision of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God. V. 26.] To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness, that he might be just, and the justifier of him that believeth in Jesus. Heb. 9. 22. And almost all things are by the Law purged with blood, and without shedding of blood is no remission., accept us in his beloved Eph. 1. 6, 7. To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. V. 7.] In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace., continue his favour and grace to us 2 Pet. 1. 2. Grace and peace be multiplied unto you, through the knowledg of God, and of Jesus our Lord., pardon our daily failings Hos. 14. 2. Take with you words, and turn to the Lord, say unto him, Take away all iniquity, and receive us graciously; so will we render the calves of our lips. Jor. 14. 7. O Lord, though our iniquities testifie against us, do thou it for thy names sake; for our back-slidings are many, we have sinned against thee,, and fill us with peace and joy in giving us daily more and more assurance of forgiveness Rom. 15. 13. Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. Psal. 51. 7, 8, 9, 10▪—12. Purge me with hysop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter then snow. V. 8.] Make me to hear joy and gladness, that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoyce. V. 9.] Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. V. 10.] Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.—V. 12. Restore unto me the joy of my salvation, and uphold me with thy free Spirit., which [Page 152] we are the rather imboldened to ask, and incouraged to expect when we have this testimony in our selves, that we from the heart forgive others their offences Lu. 11. 4. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us, &c. Mat. 6. 14, 15. For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. V. 15. But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your heavenly Father forgive your trespasses. Mat. 18. 35. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses..

Q. What do we pray for in the sixth Petition?

A. In the sixth Petition, [which is, And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil Mat. 6. 13.,] acknowledging that the most wise, righteous, and gracious God, for divers holy and just ends, may so order things, that we may be assaulted, foiled, and for a time led captive by temptations 2 Chron. 32. 31. Howbeit, in the business of the Ambassadors of the Princes of Babylon who sent unto him to enquire of the wonder that was done in the land, God left him, to try him, that he might know all that was in his heart., that Satan 1 Chron. 21. 1. And Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel., the world Luke 21. 34. And [...]ake heed to your selves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfetting, and drunkenness, and acres of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. Mark▪ 4. 19. And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entring in, choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. and the flesh are ready powerfully to draw us aside & in snare us Jam 1. 14. But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed., and that we, even after the pardon of our sins, by reason of our corruption Gal. 5. 17. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; and these are contrary the one to the other, so that ye cannot do the things that ye would., weakness & want of watchfulness Mat. 26. 41. Watch and pray that ye enter not into temptation, the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak., are not onely subject to be tempted, and forward to expose our selves unto temptations Mat 26. 69, 70, 71, 72. Now Peter sate without in the Palace, and a damsel came to him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee. V. 70. But he denyed before them all, saying, I know not what thou sayest. V. 71. And when he was gone into the porch, another maid saw him, and said to them that were there: This fellow was also with Jesus of Nazareth. V. 72. And again he denied with an oath, saying, I do not know the man. Gal. 2. 11, 12, 13, 14. But when Peter was come to Antioch, I withstood him to the face, because he was to be blamed. V. 12. For before that certain came from James, he did eat with the Gentiles; but when they were come, he withdrew and separated himself, fearing them of the circumcision. V. 13. And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him, insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation. V 14. But when I saw that they walked not uprightly, according to the truth of the Gospel, I said to Peter, &c. 2 Chr. 18. 3. And Ahab king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat king of Judah, wilt thou go with me to Ramoth Gilead? And he answered him, I am as thou art, and my people as thy people, and we will be with thee in the war. Compared with 2 Chron▪ 19. 2. and Jehu the son of Hanani the Seer, went out to meet him, and said to king Jehoshaphat, shouldst thou help the ungodly, and love them that hate the Lord? therefore is wrath upon thee before the Lord., but also of our selves unable and unwilling to resist them, to recover out of [Page 153] them and to improve them Rom. 7. 23, 24. But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin that is in my members. V. 24. O wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from this body of death? 1 Chron. 21. 1, 2, 3, 4. And Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel. V. 2. And David said to Joab, and the rulers of the people, go number Israel from Bersheba to Dan, &c. V. 3. And Joab answered, The Lord make his people an hundred times so many more as they be; but my lord the King, are they not my lords servants? why then doth my lord require this thing? why will he be a cause of trespass to Israel? V. 4. Nevertheless the Kings word prevailed against Joab; wherefore Joab departed, and went, &c. 2 Chr. 16. 7, 8, 9, 10. And at that time Hanani the seer came to As [...] King of Judah, and said to him, because thou hast rested on the King of Syria, and not relied on the Lord thy God, therefore is the host the King of Syria escaped out of thine hand. V. 8. Were not the Ethiopians and Lubins a huge host? &c. and yet because thou didst rely on the Lord, he delivered them into thine hand. V. 9. For the eyes of the Lord run too and fro, throughout the earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them, whose hearts is perfect towards him; herein thou hast done foolishly, therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars. V. 10. Then Asa was wroth with the seer, and put him into a prison house; for he was in a rage with him because of this thing, and Asa oppressed some of the people the same time., & worthy to be left under the power of them Psal. 81. 11, 12. But my people would not hearken unto my voice, and Israel would have none of me. V. 12. So I gave them up unto their hearts lust, and they walked in their own counsels., we pray that God would so overrule the world, and all in it Joh. 17. 15. I pray not that thou shouldst take them out of the world, but that thou shouldst keep them from the evil., subdue the flesh Psal. 51. 10▪ Create in me a clean, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Psal. 119. 133. Order my steps in thy word, and let not any iniquity have dominion over me., and restrain Satan 2 Cor. 12. 7, 8. And lest I should be exalted above measure, trhough the abundance of revelations, there was given to me a throne in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. V. 8. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice that it might depart from me, order all things 1 Cor. 10. 12, 13. Wherefore let him that thinks he standeth take heed lest he fall. V. 13. There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man; but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to he tempted above what ye are able, but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it., bestow and blesse all means of grace Heb. 13. 20. 21. Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead, our Lord Je [...]us Christ that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant. V. 21. Make you perfect in every good work, to do his will, working in you that which is well-pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, &c., and quicken us to watchfulnesse in the use of them, that we and all his people may by his providence be kept from being tempted to sin Mat. 26. 21. Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation, &c. Psal. 13. 9. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let not them have dominion over me, then shall I be upright, and innocent from the great transgression., or, if tempted, that by his Spirit we may be powerfully supported and enabled to stand in the hour of temptation Eph. 3. 14, 15, 16, 17. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, V. 15. O [...] whom the whole family of heaven and earth is named, V. 16. That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; V. 17. That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith, that ye being rooted, &c. 1 Thes. 3. 13. To the end he may establish your hearts unblameable in holiness before God, even our Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ with all his saints. Jude. v. 24. Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy., or, when [Page 154] fallen, raised again and recovered out of it Psa. 5 [...]. 12. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation, and uphold me with thy free spirit. and have a sanctified use and improvement thereof 1 Pet. 5. 8, 9, 10. Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the Divel as a roaring Lion walketh about seeking whom he may devour. v. 9. Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. v. 10. But the God of all peace, who hath called us into his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.; that our sanctification and salvation may be perfected 2 Cor. 13. 7-9. Now I pray to God that ye do no evil, not that we should appear approved, but that ye should do that which is honest, though we be as reprobates.—V. 9. For we are glad when we are weak, and ye are strong; this also we wish, even your perfection., Satan trodden under our feet Rom. 16. 20. And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly, &c. Zech. 3. 2. And the Lord said unto Satan, The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan, even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem, rebuke thee. Is not this a brand pluckt out of the fire? Luk. 22. 31, 32. And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat. v. 32. But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not; and when thou art converted, &c., and we fully freed from sin, temptation, and all evil for ever Joh. 17. 15. I pray not that thou shouldst take them out of the world, but that thou shouldst keep them from the evil. 1 Thes. 5. 23. And the very God of peace sanctifie you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit, and soul, and body be preserved blamelesse unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ..

Q. What doth the conclusion of the Lords Prayer teach us?

A. The conclusion of the Lords Prayer, [which is, For thine is the Kingdome, the power and the glory for ever, Amen Mat. 6. 13.,] teacheth us to enforce our petitions with arguments Rom. 15. 30. Now I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus Christs sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that you strive together with me in your prayers to God for me., which are to be taken not from any worthinesse in our selves, or in any other creature, but from God Dan. 9 [...]—7, 8, 9.-16, 17, 18, 19. And I prayed unto the Lord my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the Covenant and mercy to them that love him and keep his Commandments.—v. 7.] O Lord, righteousness belongeth unto thee, but unto us confusion of face, as at this day, &c. v. 8. O Lord, to us belongeth confusion of face, to our Kings, to our Princes, to our Fathers, because we have trespassed against thee. v. 9. To the Lord our God belongs mercies, and forgivenesses, though we have rebelled against him.—v. 16. O Lord, according to all thy rigteousness, I beseech thee, let thine anger and thy fury be turned away from thy City Jerusalem, &c. v. 17. Now therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon the Sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lords sake. v. 18. O my God, encline thine ear, and behold our desolation, and the city that is called by thy Name; for we do not present our supplications before thee for our righteousness, but for thy great mercies. v. 19. O Lord hear, O Lord forgive, O Lord heatken and doe? defer not for thine own sake, O my God, for thy city and thy people are called by thy Name.; and with our prayers to join praises Phil. 4. 6. Be careful for nothing, but in every thing, by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God., ascribing to God alone eternal soveraignty, omnipotency, and [Page 155] glorious excellency 1 Chron. 29. 10, 11, 12, 13. Wherefore David blessed the Lord before all the Congregation, and said, Blessed be thou, Lord God of Israel, our Father for ever. v. 11. Thine, O Lord, is the greatnesse, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty; for all that is in the heavens, and in the earth is thine: thine is the Kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as head above all. v. 12. Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all, and in thine hand is power, and might,—&c. v. 13. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and bless thy glorious Name.; in regard whereof, as he is able and willing to help us Eph. 3▪ 20, 21. Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we can ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us. v. 21. Unto him be glory in the Church of Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. Luk. 11. 13. If we then being evil know how to give good gifts unto our children, how much more shall your heavenly father give the holy Spirit to them that ask him., so we by faith are imboldned to plead with him that he would 2 Chron. 20. 6.-11. ▪And said, O Lord God of our fathers, art not thou God in heaven? and rulest not thou over all the Kingdoms of the heathen? and in thine hand is there not power and might, so that none is able to withstand thee?—v. 11. Behold I say, how they reward us, to come to cast us out of the possession which thou hast given us to inherit., and quietly to rely upon him that he will fulfil our requests 2 Chr. 14. 11. And Asa cried unto the Lord his God, and said, Lord, it is nothing with thee to help, whether with many, or with them that have no power. Help us, O Lord our God, for we rest on thee, and in thy Name we go out against this multitude. O Lord, thou art our God, let not man prevail against thee., and to testify this our desire and assurance, we say, Amen 1 Cor. 14. 16. Also when thou shalt blesse with the Spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned, say Amen at thy giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest? Rev. 22 20, 21. He which testifieth these things, saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come Lord Jesus. v. 21. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. AMEN..

FINIS.

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TO THE RIGHT HONORABLE THE LORDS and COMMONS Assembled in PARLIAMENT: The Humble Advice of the ASSEMBLY of DIVINES, Sitting at WESTMINSTER: Concerning A Shorter Catechism.

Quest. WHat is the chief end of man?

A. Man's chief end is to glorifie God 1 Cor. 10. 31. Whether therefore ye eat or drink, or whatsoeever ye do, do all to the glory of God. Rom. 11. 36. For of Him, and through Him, and to Him are all things, to whom be glory for ever, Amen., and to enjoy him for ever Psal. 73. 25. Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire besides thee. v. 26. My flesh and my heart faileth, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion for ever. v. 27. For lo they that are far from thee shall perish, thou hast destroyed all them that go a whoring from thee. v. 28. But it is good for me to draw near to God, I have put my trust in the Lord God, that I may declare all thy works..

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Q. VVhat rule hath God given to direct us how we may glorifie and enjoy him?

A. The Word of God (which is contained in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament 2 Tim. 3. 16. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. Eph. 2. 20. And are built upon the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief Corner stone., is the onely rule to direct us how we may glorifie and injoy him 1 Joh. 1. 3. That which we have seen and heard, declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us, and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his son Jesus Christ. v. 4. And these things write we unto you, that your joy may be full..

Q. What do the Scriptures principally teach?

A. The Scriptures principally teach, what man is to believe concerning God, and what duty God requires of man 2 Tim. 1. 13. Hold f [...]st the form of found words which thou hast heard of me, in faith, and love, which is in Christ Jesus. 2 Tim. 3. 16. Vide supra..

Q. What is God?

A. God is a Spirit Ioh. 4. [...]4. God is a Spirit, and they that worship him, must worship him in Spirit and in Truth, Infinite Ioh 11. 7. Canst thou by searching find out God? canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection? v. 8. It is as high as heaven, what canst thou do? deeper then hell, what canst thou know? v. 9. The measure thereof is longer then the earth, and broader then the sea., Eternal Psal. 90. 2. Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting, to everlasting, thou art God., and Unchangeable Jam. 1. 17. Every good and perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variableness, either shadow of turning., in his Being Exo. 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 A M hath sent me unto you., Wisdom Psal. 147. 5. Great is our Lord, and of great power, his understanding is infinite., Power Rev. 4. 8. And the four beasts had each of them six wings about him, and they were full of eyes within, and they rest not day and night, saying, Holy, holy, holy Lord God Almighty; which was, and is, and is to come., Holiness Rev. 15. 5. Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorifie thy Name? for thou onely art holy, for all nations shall come and worship before thee, for thy judgments are made manifest., Justice, Goodness and Truth Exod. 34. 6. And the Lord passed before him and proclaimed, The Lord, the Lord God merciful and gracious, long suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth. v. 7. Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity, and transgression, and sin; and tha [...] will by no means clear the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the child, and upon the children [...] chil [...]ren, unto the third and for it a generation..

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Q. Are there more Gods then one?

A. There is but one onely, the living and true God Deut. 6. 4. Hear O Israel, the Lord our God is one Lord. Jer. 10. 10. But the Lord is the true God, he is the living God, and an everlasting King: at his breath the earth shall tremble, and the nations shall not be able to abide his indignation..

Q. How many persons are there in the Godhead?

A. There are three persons in the Godhead; the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost; and these three are one God, the same in substance, equal in power and glory 1 John 5. 7. For there are three that bare record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost, and these three are one. Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost..

Q. What are the decrees of God?

A. The deerees of God, are his eternal purpose according to the counsel of his Will, whereby, for his own glory, he hath fore-ordained whatever comes to passe Eph. 1. 4. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundations of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love. v. 11. In whom also we obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the purpose of his own will. Rom. 9. 22. What if God, willing to shew his wrath, and to make his power known, endured with much long-suffering, the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction. v. 23. And that he might make known the riches of his glory, on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory..

Q. How doth God execute his decrees?

A. God executeth his decrees in the works of Creation and Providence.

Q. VVhat is the work of Creation?

A. The work of Creation is Gods making all things of nothing, by the Word of his Power, in the space of six dayes, and all very Good Gen. 1. throughout Heb. 11. 3. Through Faith we understand that the world were framed by the Word of God, so that things which were seen were made of things that do appear..

Q. How did God create man?

A. God created man male and female after his own [Page 160] image, in knowledge, righteousness, and holiness, with dominion over the creatures Gen. 1. 26. And God said, let us make man in our own image, after our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattel, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. v. 27. So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him, male and female created he them. v. 28. And God blessed them, and God said unto them, be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that creepeth upon the earth. Col. 3. 10. And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him. Eph. 4. 24. And that ye put on that new man, which after God is created in righteousnesle and true holinesse..

Q. What are Gods works of Providence?

A. Gods works of Providence are his most holy Psal. 145. 17. The Lord is righteous in all his wayes, and holy in all his works., wise ( Psal. 104. 24. O Lord how manifold are thy works, in wisdom hast thou made them all, the earth is full of thy riches. Isa. 28, 29. This also cometh from the Lord of hosts which is wonderful in counsel and excellent in working.), and powerful preserving Heb. 1. 3. Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power; when he had by himself purged our sins, sate down on the right hand of the Majesty on high., and governing all his creatures, and all their actions Psal. 103. 19. The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heaven, his kingdom ruleth over all. Matth. 10. 29. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing, and one of them shall not fall to the ground without your Father? v. 30. But the very hairs of your head are all numbred. v. 31. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value then many sparrows..

Q. What speciall act of Providence did God exercise towards man in the estate wherein he was created?

A. When God had created man, he entred into a Covenant of life with him, upon condition of perfect obedience: forbidding him to eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil, upon pain of death Gal. 3. 12. And the law is not of faith, but the man that doth them, shall live in them. Gen. 2. 17. But of the tree of knowledge of good and evil thou shalt not [...] [...]f it, for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die▪.

Q. Did our first Parents continue in the state wherein they were created?

A. Our first Parents, being left to the freedom of their own will, fell from the estate wherein they were [Page 161] created, by sinning against God Gen. 3. 6. And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise; she took of the fruit thereof and did eat, and gave also to her husband with her, and he did eat. v. 7▪] And the eyes of them both were opened; and they knew that they were naked, and they sewed fig-leaves together and made themselves aprons. v. 8.] And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God, amongst the trees of the garden. v. 13.] And the Lord God said unto the woman, what is this that thou hast done? and the woman said, the Serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. Eccles. 7. 29. Lo this onely have I found, that God hath made man upright, but they have sought out many inventions..

Q. What is sin?

A. Sin is any want of conformity unto, or transgression of the Law of God 1 John 3. 4. Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law, for sin is the transgression of the law.

Q. What was the sin whereby our first Parents fell from the estate, wherein they were created?

A. The sin whereby our first Parents fell from the state, wherein they were created, was their eating the forbidden fruit Gen. 3. 6. vide supra V. 12.] The woman which thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree and I did eat..

Q. Did all mankind fall in Adams first transgression?

A. The Covenant being made with Adam not only for himself, but for his posterity, all mankind descending from him by ordinary generation, sinned in him, and fell with him in his first transgression Gen. 2. 16. And the Lord God commanded the man saying, of every tree of the garden thou mayst freely eat. v. 17] But of the tree of the knowledg of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it, for in the day thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. Rom. 5. 12. Wherefore as by one man sin entred into the world, and death by sin, and so death passed upon all men for that all have sinned. 1 Cor. 15. 21. For since by man came death, by man also came the resurrection of the dead. v. 22.] For as in Adam all die, so in Christ shall all be made alive..

Q. Into what estate did the fall bring mankind?

A. The Fall brought mankind into an estate of sin and misery Rom. 5. 12. Wherefore as by one man sin entred in to the world, and death by sin, and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned..

Q. Wherein consists the sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell?

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A. The sinfulness of that estate whereinto man fell, consists in the guilt of Adams first sin, the want of Original righteousness, and the corruption of his whole nature, which is commonly called Original sin, together with all actual transgressions which proceed from it Rom 5. 10. to the 20. Eph. 2. 1. And you hath he quickened who were dead in trespasses and sins. V. 2. Wherein in times past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the Prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience. V. 3. Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past, in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desi [...]es of the flesh, and of the mind, and were by nature children of wrath even as others. Jam. 1. 14. But every man is tempted when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. V. 15. Then when lust hath conceived it brings forth sin, and sin when it is finished bringeth forth death. Mat. 15. 19. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies..

Q. What is the misery of that estate whereinto man fell?

A. All mankind by their fall lost communion with God Gen. 3. 8. Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden. V. 10. And he said, I heard the voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked, and I hid my self. V. 24 So he drove out the man, and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword, which turned every way to keep the way of the tree of life., are under his wrath and curse Eph. 2. 2, 3. —And by nature the children of wrath, even as others Gal. 3. 10. For as many as are of the works of the Law are under the curse, for it is written, Cursed is every one which continueth not in all things which are written in the Law to do them., and so made liable to all miseries in this life, to death it self, and to the pains of hell for ever Lam. 3. 39. Wherefore doth the living man complain? a man for the punishment of his sins. Ro. 6. 23. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Mat. 25. 41. Then shall he say to them on the left hand, Depart from me ye cursed into everlasting fire prepared for the divel and his angels. V. 46. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into life eternal..

Q. Did God leave all mankind to perish in the state of sin and misery?

A. God having out of his meer good pleasure from all eternity, elected some to everlasting life Eph. 4. According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love., did enter into a covenant of grace, to deliver them out of the estate of sin and misery, and to bring them into an estate of Salvation by a Redeemer Rom 3. 21. But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the Prophets. V. 22.] Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all, and upon all them that believe, for there is no difference. Gal. 3. 21. Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid; for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. V. 22. But the Scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith in Jesus Christ might he given to them that believe..

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Q. Who is the Redeemer of Gods Elect?

A. The only Redeemer of Gods Elect, is the Lord Jesus Christ 1 Tim. 25. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and man, the man Christ Jesus. V. 6. Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time., who being the eternal Son of God, became man 1 John 1. 14. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. Gal. 4. 4. But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son made of a woman, made under the Law,, and so was, and continueth to be God and man in two distinct Natures, and one Person for ever Rom. 9. 5. Whose are the Fathers, and of whom as concerning the flesh Christ came, who is over all, God blessed for ever. Luk. 1. 35. And the Angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall over shadow thee, herefore also that Holy thing which shall be born of thee, shall be called, The Son of God. Col. 2. 9. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. Heb 7. 24. But this man because he continueth ever, hath an unchangeable Priesthood. V. 25. Wherefore he is able to save them to the uttermost that come to God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them..

Q. How did Christ being the Son of God become man?

A. Christ the Son of God became man, by taking to himself a true body Heb. 2. 14. For as much then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood he also himself likewise took part of the same, that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is the Divel. V. 16. For verily he took not on him the nature of Angels, but he took on him the seed of Abraham. Heb. 10 5▪ Wherefore when he cometh into the world, he saith, Sacrifice and offering thou wouldst not, but a body hast thou prepared me., and a reasonable soul Mat. 26 38. Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death; tarry you here and watch with me., being conceived by the power of the Holy Ghost, in the womb of the Virgin Mary, and born of her Luk. 1. 31. Behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a Son, and shalt call his name Jesus. V. 35. vide supra V. 42. And she spake out with a loud voice and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. Gal. 44. vide supra., yet without sin Heb. 4. 15. For we have not an High Priest which cannot be touched with a feeling of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Heb. 7. 26. For such an High Priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher then the heavens..

Q. What offices doth Christ execute as our Redeemer?

A. Christ as our Redeemer, executeth the Offices of a Prophet, of a Priest, and of a King, both in his estate of humiliation and exaltation Act. 3. 22. For Moses truly said unto the Fathers, A Prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me, him shall you hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. Heb. 12. 25. See that ye refuse not him that speaketh, for if they escaped not who r [...]fused. him that spake on earth, much more shall not we escape, if we turn away from him that speaketh from heaven. Compared with 2 Cor. 13. 3. Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you ward is not weak, but is mighty in you. Heb. 5. 5. So also Christ glorified not himself to be made an High▪Priest, but he that said unto him, thou art my Son to day have I begotten thee. v. 6.] As he saith also in another place, thou art a Priest for ever after the order of Melchizedeck. v. 7.] Who in the dayes of his flesh, when he had offered up prayers and supplicitions with strong crying and tears unto him who is able to save him from death, and was heard in that he feared. Psal. 2. 6. Yet have I set my King upon my holy hill of Sion. Isa. 9. 6. For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given, and the government shall be upon his shoulders, and his name shall be called, Wonderful, Counsellor, the mighty God, the everlasting Father, the Prince of peace. v. 7.] Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David and upon his Kingdom to order it and to establish it with judgement and justice, from henceforth even for ever, the zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this. Mat. 21. 5. Tell ye the daughter of Sion, behold thy King cometh unto thee, meek and sitting upon an ass and a coalt the foal of an ass. Psal. 2. 8. Ask of me and I will give thee the Heathen for thine inheritance and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession, thou shalt break them with a rod of iron, thou shalt dash them in pieces like a Potters vessel. v. 10.] Be wise now therefore, O ye Kings, be instructed ye judges of the earth. v. 11.] Serve the Lord with fear and rejoyce with trembling.

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Q. How doth Christ execute the office of a Prophet?

A. Christ executeth the office of a Prophet, in reveleing to us by his word and Spirit the will of God for our salvation Ioh. 1. 18. No man hath seen God at any time, the only begotten Son which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him. 1 Pet. 1. 10. Of which salvation the Prophets have enquired, and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you. v. 11.] Searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ, which was in them did signifie, when it testified before-hand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory which should follow. v. 12.] Unto whom it was reveled, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you, by them that have preached the Gospel unto you, with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven, which things the Angels desire to look into. Ioh. 15. 15. Henceforth I call you not servants, for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doth; but I have called you friends, for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you Ioh. 20. 3 [...]. These things are written, that you might believe that Iesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing you might have life through his name..

Q. How doth Christ execute the office of a Priest?

A. Christ executeth the office of a Priest in his once offering up of himself a sacrifice to satisfie divine Justice Heb. 9. 14. How much more shall the blood of Christ. who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your consciences from dead works to serve the living God. v. 28.] So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many, and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time withou [...] sin unto salvation., and reconcile us to God Heb. 2 17. In all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a marciful and faithful High-Priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people., and [Page 165] in making continual intercession for us Heb. 7. 24. But this man because he continueth ever hath an unchangeable Priesthood. v. 25.] Wherefore he is able to save to the uttermost those that come to God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them..

Q. How doth Christ execute the office of a King?

A. Christ executeth the office of a King, in subduing us to himself Act. 15. 14. Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name. v. 15.] And to this agree the words of the Prophet, as it is written. v. 16.] After this I will return and build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down, and I will build again the ruines thereof and I will set it up., in ruling Isa. 33. 22. The Lord is our Judg, the Lord is our Lawgiver, the Lord is our King, he will save us., and desending us Isa. 32. 1. Behold a King shall reign in righteousness, and Princes shall rule in judgement. v. 2.] And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest, as rivers of waters in a dry place, as the shadow of a rock in a weary land., and restraining and conquering all his and our enemies 1 Cor. 15. 25. For he m [...]st reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet. Ps. 110. throughout..

Q. Wherein did Christs humiliation consist?

A. Christs humiliation consisted in his being born, and that in a low condition Luk. 2. 7. And she brought forth her firstborn Son and wrapped him in swadling-clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the Inne., made under the law Gal. 4. 4. But when the fulness of time was come, God sent forth his Son made of a woman, made under the law., undergoing the miseries of this life Heb. 12. 2. Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. v. 3.] For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself; lest ye be wearied and faint in your mindes. Isa. 53. 2. For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground, he hath no form nor comliness, and when we shall see him there is no beauty that we should desire him. v. 3.] He is despised and rejected of men, a man of sorrows and acquainted with griefs, and we hid as it were our faces from him, he was despised and we esteemed him not., the wrath of God Luk. 22. 44. And being in an agony he prayed more earnestly, and his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to the ground. Mat. 27. 46. And about the ninth hour Jesus cryed with a loud voice, saying, ELI ELILAMA-SABACTHANI: that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?, and the cursed death of the cross Phil. 2. 8. And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross., in being buried 1 Cor. 15. 4. And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the Scriptures. and continuing under the power of death for a time Mat. 2. 40. As Jonas was three dayes and three nights in the whales belly, so shall the Son of man be three dayes and three nights in the heart of the earth. Act. 2. 24, 25, 26, 27.-31. v. 24.] Woom God bath raised having loosed the pains of death; because it was not possible that he should be holden of it. v. 25.] For David speaketh concerning him, I foresaw the Lord alwayes before my face, for he is on my right hand, that I should not be moved. v. 26.] Therefore did my heart rejoyce, and my tongue was glad; moreover also my flesh shall rest in hope. v. 27.] Because thou wilt not leave my soul in hell, neither wilt thou suffer thine holy One to see corruption. v. 31.] He seeing this before spake of the resurrection of Christ, that his soul was not left in hell, neither did his flesh see corruption..

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Q. Wherein consisteth Christs Exaltation?

A. Christs exaltation consisteth in his rising again from the dead on the third day 1 Cor. 15. 4. And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the Scriptures., in ascending up into heaven Mark. 16. 19. So then after the Lord had spoken to them, he was received up into heaven, and sate on the right hand of God., in sitting at the right hand of God the Father Eph. 1. 20. Which he wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places., and in coming to judge the world at the last day Act. 1. 11. Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye g [...]zing up into heaven? this same Jesus which is taken up from you into heaven, shall come in like manner, as ye have seen him go into heaven. Chap. 17. v. 31. He hath appointed a day, in the which he shall judge the world in righteousnesse, by that man whom he hath ordained, whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead..

Q. How are we made partakers of the Redemption purchased by Christ?

A. We are made partakers of the Redemption purchased by Christ, by the effectual application of it to us John 1. 11, 12. v. 11. He came unto his own, and his own received him not. v. 12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the Sons of God, even to them that believe on his Name., by his holy Spirit Tit. 3. 5, 6. v. 5. Not by works of righteousnesse which we have done, but according to his mercy [...]e saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the holy Ghost. v. 6. Which be shed on us abundantly, through Jesus Christ our S [...]viour..

Q. How doth the Spirit apply to us the Redemption purchased by Christ?

A. The Spirit applieth to us the Redemption purchased by Christ, by working faith in us Eph. 1. 13, 14. v. 13. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the Word of truth, the Gospel of your salvation; in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise. v. 14. Which is an earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession unto the praise of his glory. Joh. 6. 37, 39. v. 37. All the Father giveth me shall come unto me, and him that cometh to me, I will in no wise cast out. v. 39. And this is the Fathers will which hath sent me, that of all which he hath given, I should lose nothing, but should raise it again at the last day Eph. 2. 8. By grace ye are saved, through faith, and that not of your selves, it is the gift of God., and thereby uniting us to Christ in our effectual Calling Eph. 3. 17. That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith, that ye being rooted and grounded in love 1 Cor. 1. 9. God is faithful by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord..

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Q. What is effectual Calling?

A. Effectuall calling is the work of Gods Spirit 2 Tim. 1 9. Who hath saved us and called us with an holy calling not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began. 2 Thes 2. 13, 14. v. 13.] But we are bound to give thanks alwayes to God for you brethren, beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through Sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth. v. 14.] Whereunto he called you by our Gosp [...]l to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ., whereby, convincing us of our sin and misery Act. 2. 37. Now when they heard this they were pricked in their hearts, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the Apostles, men and brethren what shall we do?, inlightning our minds in the knowledg of Christ Act 26. 18. To open their eyes and to turn them from darknesse to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. and renewing our wills Ezek. 36. 26, 27. v. 26.] A new heart also will I give you, and a new Spirit will I put within you, and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. v. 27.] And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments and do them., he doth perswade and enable us to embrace Jesus Christ, freely offered to us in the Gospel John 6. 44, 45. v. 44.] No man can come unto me except the Father which hath sent me draw him, and I will raise him up at the last day. v. 45.] As it is written in the Prophets, and they shall be all taught of God, every man therefore that hath heard and hath learned of the Father cometh unto me. Phil. 2. 13. For it is God that worketh in you, both to will and to do of his good pleasure..

Q. 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 Justification Rom. 8. 30. Moreover whom he did predestinate them he also called, and whom he called them he also justified, and whom he justified, them he also glorified., Adoption Eph. 1. 5. Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will., Sanctification, and the several benefits which in this life do either accompany or flow from them 1 Cor. 1. 30. Of him are ye in Christ Jesus who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption..

Q▪ What is Justification?

A. Justification is an act of Gods free grace wherein he pardoneth all our sins Ro. 3. 24, 25.] v. 24 Being justified freely by his grace, through the redemption that is in Jesus Christ. v. 25.] Whom God hath set forth to be a propiation through fai [...]h in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God. Rom. 4. 6. Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man unto whom God imputeth righteousness without works. v. 7.] Saying, blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiven, and whose sins are covered. v. 8.] Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin., and accepteth us as righteous [Page 168] in his sight 2 Cor. 5. 19. To wit that God was in Christ reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them, and hath committed to us the word of reconciliation. v. 21.] For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him., onely for the righteousness of Christ imputed to us Rom. 5. 17. For if by one mans offence, death reigned, by one much more, they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness, shall reign in life by one Jesus Christ. v. 18.] Therefore, as by the offence of one, judgement came upon men unto condemnation, even so by the righteousness of one, the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life. v. 19.] As by one mans disobedience many were made sinners: so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous., and received by Faith alone Gal. 2. 16. Knowing that man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Iesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law, for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified. Phil. 3. 9. And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith.

Q. What is Adoption?

A. Adoption is an act of Gods free grace 1 Ioh. 3. 1. Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God, therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not., whereby we are received into the number, and have a right to all the priviledges of the sons of God Ioh. 1. 12. As many as received him, to them gave be power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. Rom. 8. 17. And if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint-heires with Christ, if so be we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together..

Q. What is Sanctification?

A. Sanctification is the work of Gods free grace 2 Thes. 1. 13. God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and the belief of the truth., whereby we are renewed in the whole man after the image of God Ephes. 4. 23. And be renewed in the Spirit of your mind. v. 24.] And that ye put on that new man which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness., and are enabled more and more to die unto sin, and live unto righteousness Rom. 6. 4. Therefore we are buried with him by baptisme into death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. v. 6.] Knowing this that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. Rom 8. 1. There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit..

Q. What are the benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from Justification, Adoption, and Sanctification?

A. The benefits which in this life do accompany or flow from Justification, Adoption, and Sanctification [Page 139] are assurance of Gods love, peace of conscience Rom. 5. 1. Therefore being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. V. 2.] By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoyce in hope of the glory of God. V. 5. And hope maketh not ashamed, because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the holy Ghost which is given unto us., joy in the holy Ghost Rom. 14. 17. For the Kingdome of God is not meat and drink: but righteousness and peace, and joy in the holy Ghost., encrease of grace Prov. 4. 18. The path of the just, is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. and perseverance therein to the end 1 Joh. 5. 13. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God, that you may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God. 1 Pet. 1. 5. Who are kept by the power of God, through faith unto salvation, ready to be revealed in the last times..

Q. What benefits do believers receive from Christ, at death?

A. The souls of believers are at their death made perfect in holiness Heb. 12. 23. To the general assemby and Church of the first-born which are written in heaven, and to God the judg of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect., and do immediately passe into glory 2 Cor. 5. 1. For we know that if our earthly houses of this Tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. V. 6.] Therefore we are alwayes confident, knowing that whilest we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord. V. 8.] We are confident I say, and willing, rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Phil. 1. 23. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ, which is far better. Luk. 23. 43. And Jesus said unto him, verily, I say unto thee, to day shalt thou be with me in paradise., and their bodies being still united to Christ 1 Thes. 4. 14. For if we believe that Jesus dyed and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus, will God bring with him., do rest in their graves Isa. 57. 2. He shall enter into peace, they shall rest in their beds, each one walking in uprightness., till the resurrection Job. 19. 26. And though after my skin, worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God. V. 27.] Whom I shall see for my self, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another, though my reins be consumed within me..

Q. What benefit do believers receive from Christ at the resurrection?

A. At the resurrection, believers being raised up in glory 1 Cor. 15. 43. It is sown in dishonour, it is raised in glory, it is sown in weakness, it is raised in power., shall be openly acknowledged, and acquitted in the day of judgment Mat. 25. 23. His Lord said unto him, well done, thou good and faithful servant thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord. Mat. 10. 32. Whosoever shall confess me before men, him will I confess also before my father which is in heaven., and made perfectly blessed in [Page 140] full enjoying of God 1 Ioh. 3. 2. Beloved now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be, but we know that when he shall appear, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is, 1 Cor. 13. 12. For now we see through a glass darkly, but then face to face; now I know in part, but then shall I know even as I am also known., to all eternity 1 Thes. 4. 17. Then we which are are alive and remain, shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the aire and so shall we be ever with the Lord. v. 18.] Wherefore comfort one another with these words..

Q. What is the duty which God requireth of man?

A. The duty which God requireth of man, is obedience to his revealed will Mic. 6. 8. He hath shewed thee, O man what is good, and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God. 1 Sam▪ 15. 22. And Samuel said, hath the Lord as great delight in burnt-offering and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord, Behold, to obey is better then sacrifice, and to hearken then the fat of rams..

Q. What did God at first reveal to man for the rule of his obedience?

A. The rule which God at first revealed to man for his obedience, was the Moral Law Rom. 2. 14. For when the Gentiles which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these having not the law, are a law unto themselves v. 15.] Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their consciences also beating witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another. Rom. 10. 5. For Moses describeth the righteousness which is of the law, that the man which doth those things shall live by them..

Q. Where is the Moral Law summarily comprehended?

A. The morall law is summarily comprehended in the ten Commandments Deut. 10. 4. And he wrote on the Tables according to the first writing, the ten Commandments which the Lord spake unto you in the mount, out of the midst of the fire, in the day of the assembly, and the Lord gave them unto me. Mat. 19. 17. And he said unto him, why callest thou me good, there is none good but one, that is God, but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the Commandments..

Q. What is the sum of the ten Commandments?

A. The sum of the ten Commandments is, To love the Lord our God with all our heart, with all our soul, with all our strength, and with all our mind; and our [Page 141] neighbour as our selves Mat. 22. 37. Jesus said unto him thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. v. 38.] This is the first and great Commandment. v. 39.] And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thy self. v. 40.] On these two Commandments hang all the law and the Prophets..

Q. What is the Preface to the Ten Commandments?

A. The Preface to the ten Commandments is in these words [I am the Lord thy God which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage Exod. 20. 2..]

Q. What doth the Preface to the ten Commandments teach us?

A. The Preface to the ten Commandments teacheth us, that because God is the Lord, and our God, and Redeemer; therefore we are bound to keep all his Commandments Luke 1. 74. That he would grant unto us that we being delivered out of the hands of our enemies, might serve him without fear. v. 75.] In holiness and righteousness before him all the dayes of our lives. 1 Pet. 1: 15.] But as he that hath called you, is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation. v. 16.] Because it is written, be ye holy for I am holy. v. 17.] And if you call on the father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every mans work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear. v. 18.] For as much as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things as silver and gold from your vain conversation, received by tradition from your fathers. v. 19.] But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish, and without spot:.

Q. Which is the first Commandment?

A. The first Commandment is [Thou shalt have no other Gods before me Exod. 20. 3..]

Q. What is required in the first Commandment?

A. The first Commandment requireth us to know, and acknowledge God to be the only true God, and our God 1 Chron. 28. 9. And thou Solomon my son know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart, and with a willing minde; for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him he will be found of thee, but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever. Deut. 26. 17. Thou hast avouched the Lord this day to be thy God, and to walk in his wayes, and to keep his statutes, and his Commandments, and his judgements, and to hearken unto his voice., and to worship and glorifie [Page 142] him accordingly Mat. 4. 10. Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence Satan, for it is written, thou shalt worship the Lord thy God and him onely shalt thou serve. Psal. 29. 2. Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name, worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness.

Q. What is forbidden in the first Commandment?

A. The first Commandment forbiddeth the denying Psal. 14. 1. The fool hath said in his heart there is no God, they are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doth good., or not worshipping and glorifying the true God, as God Rom. 1. 21. Because that when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were they thankful, but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkned., and our God Psal. 81. 10. I am the Lord thy God which brought thee out of the land of Egypt, open thy mouth wide and I will fill it. v. 11.] But my people would not hearken to my voice, and Israel would none of me., and the giving that worship and glory to any other which is due to him alone Rom. 1. 25. Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creatures more then the Creator, who is blessed for ever, Amen. v. 26.] For this cause God gave them up vnto vile affections, for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature..

Q. What are we especially taught by these words [before me] in the first Commandment?

A. These words before me, in the first Commandment, teach us, that God who seeth all things, taketh notice of, and is much displeased with the sin of having any other God Ezek. 8. 5. to theend Psal. 44. 20, 21. But if we have forgotten the name of our God, or stretched out our hands to a strange God; v. 21.] Shall not God search this out? for he knoweth the secrets of the heart..

Q. Which is the second Commandment?

A. The second Commandment is, [Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; thou shalt not bow down thy selfe to them nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; and shewing mercy unto thousands, of them that love me, and keep my Commandments Exod 20: 4, 5, 6..]

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Q. What is required in the second Commandment?

A. The second Commandment requireth, the receiving, observing, and keeping pure and entire, all such religious worship and Ordinances as God hath appointed in his word Deut. 32. 46. And he said unto them, Set your hearts unto all the words which I testifie among you this day, which ye shall command your children to observe to do all the words of this law. Mat. 28. 20. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and lo I am with you alwayes unto the end of the world. Act. 2. 42. And they continued stedfastly in the Apostles doctrine, and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers..

Q. What is forbidden in the second Commandment?

A. The second Commandment forbiddeth the worshipping of God by Images Deut. 4. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19.] v. 15. Take ye therefore good heed unto your selves (for ye saw no manner of similitude on the day that the Lord spake unto you in Horeb, out of the midst of the fire) v. 16. Lest you corrupt your selves, and make you a graven Image, the similitude of any figure, the likeness of male or female. v. 17.] The likeness of any beast that is on the earth, the likeness of any winged fowl that flieth in the air, v. 18.] The likeness of any thing that creepeth on the ground, the likeness of any fish that is in the waters beneath the earth. v. 19.] And least thou lift up thine eyes unto heaven, and when thou feest the Sun, Moon, and Starres, even all the host of heaven, shouldest be driven to worship them, and serve them, which the Lord God hath divided unto all nations under the whole heaven. Exod. 32. 5-8. And when Aaron saw it, he built an Altar before it, and Aaron made proclamation, and said, Tomorrow is a feast to the Lord.—v. 8.] They have turned aside quickly out of the way which I commanded them; they have made them a molten calf, and have worshipped it, and have sacrificed thereunto, and said, These be thy Gods, O Israel, which have brought thee up out of the land of Egypt., or any other way, not appointed in his word Deut. 12. 31, 32. Thou shalt not do so unto the Lord thy God, for every abomination to the Lord which he hateth, have they done unto their gods; for even their sons and their daughters have they burnt in the fire to their gods. v. 32.] What thing soever I command you, observe to do it; thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it..

Q. What are the Reasons annexed to the second Commandment?

A. The Reasons annexed to the second Commandment are, Gods soveraignty over us Psal. 95. 2, 3, 6 Let us come before his prefence with thanksgiving, and make a joiful noise unto him with Psalms. v. 3.] For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all Gods. v. 6.] O come let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before the Lord our maker, his property in us Psal. 45. 11. So shall the King greatly desire thy beauty, for he is thy Lord and worship thou him, and his zeal he hath to his own worship Exod. 34. 13, 14. But ye shall destroy their altars break their images, and cut down their groves. V. 14.] For thou shalt worship no other God, for the Lord whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God..

Q. Which is the third Commandment?

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A. The third Commandment is, Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain: for the Lord will not hold him guiltless, that taketh his name in vain Exod. 20. 7..

Q. What is required in the third Commandment?

A. The third Commandment requireth the holy and reverend use of Gods Name Mat. 6. 9. After this manner therefore pray ye, Our Father which art in heaven, hallowed be thy Name. Deut. 28. 58. If thou wilt not observe to do all the words of this law, that are written, in this book, that thou maist fear this glorious and fearful name, THE LORD THY GOD., Title Psal. 68. 4. Sing unto God, sing praises to his name, extol him that rideth upon the heavens by his name JAH, and rejoyc [...] before him., Attributes Rev. 15. 3, 4. And they sing the Song of Moses, the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, great and marvellous are thy words, Lord God Almighty, just and true are thy wayes, thou King of Saints. V. 4.] Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorifie thy Name, for thou only art holy; for all nations shall come and worship before thee, for thy judgments are made manifest., Ordinances Mal. 1. 11, 14. For from the rising of the Sun even unto the going down of the same, my name shall be great among rhe Gentiles, and in every place incense shall be offered unto thy name, and a pure offering, for my name shall be great among the heathen, saith the Lord of hosts. V. 14.] But cursed be the deceiver that hath in his flock a male, and voweth and sacrificeth unto the Lord a corrupt thing; for I am a great King, saith the Lord of hosts, and my name is dreadful among the heathen., Word Psal. 138. 1, 2. I will prai [...] thee with my whole heart, before the gods will I sing praise unto thee. V. 2.] I will worship towards thy holy Temple, and praise thy name for thy loving Kindness, and for thy truth; for thou hast magnified thy word above all thy name., and Works Job. 36. 24. Remember that thou magnifie his work, which men behold..

Q. VVhat is forbidden in the third Commandment?

A. The third Commandment forbiddeth all profaning or abusing of any thing, whereby God maketh himself known Mal. 1. 6, 7-12. A son honoureth his father, and a servant his Master. If then I be a father, where is mine honor? and if I be a Master, where is my fear, saith the Lord of hosts unto you, O Priests, that despise my Name? and ye say, Wherein have we despised thy Name? V. 7.] Ye offer polluted bread upon mine Altar; and ye say, Wherein have we polluted thee? in that ye say, The Table of the Lord is contemptible. V. 12.] But ye have profaned it, in that ye say, the Table of the Lord is polluted, and the fruit thereof, even his meat is contemptible. Chap. 2. v. 2. If you will not hear, and if you will not lay it to heart to give glory to my Name, saith the Lord of hosts, I will even send a curse upon you, and will curse your blessings, yea, I have cursed them already, because ye do not lay it to heart. Chap. 3. 14. Ye have said, it is vain to serve God; and what profit is it that we have kept his Ordinances, and that we have walked mournfully before the Lord of hosts?

Q. What is the Reason annexed to the third Commandment?

A. The Reason annexed to the third Commandment [Page 145] is, that however the breakers of this Commandment may escape punishment from men, yet the Lord our God will not suffer them to escape his righteous judgement 1 Sam. 2. 12.-17-22.-24. Now the sons of Eli were sons of Belial; they knew not the Lord—v. 17.] Wherefore the sin of the young men was very great before the Lord; for men abhorred the offering of the Lord—v. 22.] Now E [...]i was very old, and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel, and how they lay with the women that assembled at the door of the Tabernacle of the Congregation.—v. 24.] Nay, my sons, for it is no good report that I hear; ye make the Lords people to transgress. 1 Sam. 3. 13.▪ For I have told him that I will judg his house for ever, for the iniquity which he knoweth; because his sons made themselves vile, and he restrained them not. Deut. 28. 58, 59. If thou wilt not observe to do all the words of this law that are written in this book, that thou mayest fear this glorious and fearful Name The Lord thy God. v. 59.] Then the Lord will make thy plagues wonderful, and the plagues of thy seed even great plagues, and of long continuance, and sore sicknesses, and of long continuance..

Q. Which is the fourth Commandment?

A. The fourth Commandment is, [Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy: six dayes shalt thou labour and do all thy work: but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God; in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattel, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: for in six dayes the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day; wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it Exo. 20. 8, 9, 10, 11.]

Q. What is required in the fourth Commandment?

A. The fourth Commandment requireth the keeping holy to God, such set time as he hath appointed in his Word; expresly, one whole day in seven, to be a holy Sabbath unto the Lord Deut. 5. 12, 13, 14. Keep the Sabbath day to sanctifie it, as the Lord thy God hath commanded thee. v. 13.] Six dayes shalt thou labour, and do all thy work. v. 14.] But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God; in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, nor thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thine ox, nor thine ass, nor any of thy cattel, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates, that thy man-servant and thy maid-servant may rest as well as thou..

Q. Which day of the seven hath God appointed to be the weekly Sabbath

A. From the beginning of the world to the Resurrection of Christ, God hath appointed the seventh day of the week to be the weekly Sabbath: and the first day [Page 146] of the week, ever since, to continue to the end of the world, which is the Christian Sabbath Gen. 2. 2, 3. And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made: and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he made. V. 3.] And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it; because that in it he rested from all his work which God created and made. 1 Cor. 16. 1, 2. Now concerning the collection for the Saints, as [have given order to the Churches of Galatia, even so do ye, V. 2. 7.] Upon the first day of the week, let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. Act. 20. 7.] And upon the first day of the Week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow, and continued his speech until midnight..

Q. How is the Sabbath to be sanctified?

A. The Sabbath is to be sanctified, by an holy resting all that day Exod 20. 8.-10. Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy—V. 10.] But the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God: In it thou shalt do no manner of work, thou, nor thy son, &c., even from such worldly imployments and recreations, as are lawful on other dayes Neh. 13. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19.-21, 22. In those dayes saw I in Judah, some treading wine-presses on the sabbath, and bringing in sheaves, and lading asses, also wine, grapes, and figs, and all manner of burdens, which they brought into Jerusalem on the Sabbath day; and I testified against them in the day wherein they sold victuals. V. 16.] There dwelt men of Tyre also therein, which brought fish, and all manner of wares, and sold on the Sabbath day, unto the children of Judah, and in Jerusalem. V. 17.] Then I contended with the Nobles of Judah, and said unto them, What evil thing is this that ye do, and profane the Sabbath day? V. 18.] Did not your fathers thus, and did not God bring all this evil upon us, and upon this Ci [...]y? Yet ye bring more wrath upon Israel, by profaning the Sabbath. V. 19.] And it came to pass that when the gates of Jerusalem began to be dark before the Sabbath, I commanded that the gates should be shut, and charged that they should not be opened till after the Sabbath; and some of my servants I set at the gates, that there should be no burden brought in on the Sabbath day. V. 21.] Then testified I against them, and said unto them, Why lodg ye about the wall? If ye do so again, I will lay hands on you. From that time forth came they no more on the Sabbath. V. 22] And I commanded the Levites that they should cleanse themselves, and that they would come and keep the gates, to sanctifie the Sabbath day. Remember me, O my God, concerning this [...]lso, &c.—, and spending the whole time in the publick and private exercises of Gods worship Luk. 4. 16. And he came to Nazareth where he had been brought up, and as his custome was, he went into the Synagogue on the Sabbath day, and stood up for to read. Act. 20. 7. And upon the first day of the week, &c. See letter [i] Psal. 92. Title, A P [...]alm, or song for the Sabbath day. Isa. 66. 23. And it shall come to pass that from one new Moon to another, and from one Sabbath to another, shall all flesh come to worship before me, saith the Lord., except so much as is to be taken up in the works of necessity and mercy Mat. 12. from ver. 1. to ver. 13. At that time Jesus went on the Sabbath day through the corn, and his Disciples were an hungry, and began to pluck ears of corn and to eat. But when the Pharisees, &c.—ver. 12. Is it lawful to do well on the Sabbath dayes..

Q. What are the sins fordiden in the fourth Commandment?

A. The fourth Commandment forbiddeth the omission of careful performance of the duties required [Page 147] Ezek. 22. 26. Her Priests have violated my law, and profaned mine holy things: they have put no difference between the holy and profane, neither have they shewed difference between the unclean and clean; and have hid their eyes from my Sabbaths, and I am profaned among them. Amos 8. 5. Saying, When will the New Moon be gone, that we may sell corn, and the Sabbath that we may set forth wheat? making the Ephah small, and the shekel great, and falsifying the balances by deceit. Mal. 1. 13. Ye said also, Behold, what a weariness is it! and ye have snuffed at it, saith the Lord of hosts; and ye brought that which was torn, and the lame, and the sick; thus ye brought an offering: Should I accept this of your hand, saith the Lord?, and the profaning the day by idleness Act. 20. 7.-9. And upon the first day of the week, when the Discip [...]es came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow, and continued his speech untill midnight.—v. 9.] And there sate in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep; and as Paul was long Preaching he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead., or doing that which is in it self sinful Ezek. 23. 38. Moreover, this they ha [...]e done to me, They have defiled my Sanctuary in the same day, and have profaned my Sabbaths., or by unnecessary thoughts, words, or works about our worldly imployments or recreations Jer. 17. 24, 25, 26. And it shall come to pass if ye diligently hearken unto me, saith the Lord, to bring in no burden through the gates of this city on the Sabbath day, but hallow the Sabbath day, to do no work therein. v. 25.] Then shall there enter into the gates of this City Kings and Princes sitting upon the throne of David, riding in chariots and on horses, they and their Princes, the men of Judah and the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and this City shall remain for ever. V. 26.] And they shall come from the Citie of Judah, and from the places about Jerusalem, and from the land of Benjamin, and from the Plain, and from the mountains, and from the South, bringing burnt-offerings and sacrifices, and meat-offerings, and incense, and bringing sacrifices of praise unto the house of the Lord. Isa. 58. 13. If thou turn away thy foot from the Sabbath, from doing thy pleasure on my holy-day, and call the Sabbath a delight, the Holy of the Lord, honourable, and shall honour him, not doing thine own wayes, nor finding thine own pleasure, nor speaking thine own words..

Q. What are the Reasons annexed to the fourth Commandment?

A. The Reasons annexed to the fourth Commandment are, Gods allowing us six daies of the week for our own imployment Exod. 20. 9. Six dayes shalt thou labour and do all thy work., his challenging a special property in the seventh, his own example, and his blessing the Sabbath day Exod. 20. 11. For in six dayes the Lord made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day; wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath-day and hallowed it..

Q. What is the fifth Commandment?

A. The fifth Commandment is, [Honour thy father and thy mother that thy dayes may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee Exod. 20. 12..]

Q. What is required in the fifth Commandment.

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A. The fifth Commandment requireth the preserving the honour, and performing the duties, belonging to every one in their several places and relations, as superiors Eph. 5. 21. Submitting your selves one to another▪ in the fear of God., inferiors 1 Pet. 2. 17. Honour all men, Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the King., or equals Rom. 12. 10.] Be kindly affectioned one to another, with brotherly love in honour preferring one another..

Q. What is forbidden in the fifth Commandment?

A. The fifth Commandment forbiddeth the neglecting of, or doing any thing against the honour and duty which belongeth to every one in their several places and relations Mat. 15. 4. For God commanded, saying, Honour thy Father, and mother, & he that curseth father or mother let him die the death. v. 5.] But ye say whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, it is a gift by whatsoever thou mightest be profi [...]ed by me, v. 6.] And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free, thus have ye made the Commandments of God of none effect by your traditions. Ezek▪ 34. 2, 3, 4. Son of man prophecy against the shepherds of Israel; prophecy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God unto the shepherds, wo be to the shepherds of Israel, that do feed themselves; should not the shepherds feed the flocks? v. 3.] Ye eat the fat and cloath you with the wool, ye kill them that are fed; but ye seed not the flock. v. 4.] The diseased have ye not strengthned, nor have ye healed that which was sick, nor bound up that which was broken, nor brought again that which was driven away, nor sought that which was lost, but with force and cruelty have ye ruled them. Rom. 13. 8. Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the Law..

Q. What is the Reason annexed to the fifth Commandment?

A. The Reason annexed to the fifth Commandment, is a promise of long life and prosperity, (as far as it shall serve for Gods glory, and their own good) to all such as keep this Commandment Deut. 5. 16 Honor thy father and thy mother, as the Lord thy God hath commanded thee; that thy dayes may be prolonged, and that it may go well with thee, in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee. Eph. 6. 2, 3. Honour thy father and mother (which is the first Commandment with promise.) v. 3.] That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth..

Q Which is the sixth Commandment?

A. The sixth Commandment is, [Thou shalt not kill Exod. 20. 13..]

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Q. What is required in the sixth Commandment?

A. The sixth Commandment requireth all lawful endeavours to preserve our own life Eph. 5. 28, 29. So ought men to love their own wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wise, loveth himself. v. 29.] For no man ever bated his own flesh, but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the Church?, and the life of others 1 King. 18. 4. For it was so, when Jezebel cut off the Prophets of the Lord, that Obadiah took an hundred Prophets, and hid them by fifty in a cave, and fed them with bread and water..

Q. What is forbidden in the sixth Commandment?

A. The sixth Commandment forbiddeth the taking away of our own life, or the life of our neighbour unjustly, or whatsoever tendeth thereunto Act. 16. 28. But Paul cried with a loud voice, saying, Do thy self no harm for we are all here. Gen. 9. 6. Who so sheddeth mans blood, by man shall his blood be shed; for in the image of God made he man..

Q. Which is the seventh Commandment?

A. The seventh Commandment is [Thou shalt not commit adultery Exod. 20. 14..

Q. What is required in the seventh Commandment?

A. The seventh Commandment requireth the preservation of our own and our neighbors chastity in heart, speech and behaviour 1 Cor. 7. 2.-3,▪ 5. 34-36. Nevertheless to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and every woman her own husband. v. 3.] Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence; and likewise also the wife unto the husband—v. 5.] Defraud you not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give, &c. v. 34.] There is difference also between a wife and a virgin; the unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy, both in [...]o [...]y and in spirit; but she that is married careth for the things of the world how she may please her husband—v. 36.] But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age, and need so require; let him do what he will; he sinneth not; let them marry. Col. 4. 6. Let your speech be alwayes with grace, seasoned with salt; that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. 1 Pet. 3. 2. While they behold your chast conversation coupled with fear..

Q. What is forbidden in the seventh Commandment?

A. The seventh Commandment forbiddeth all [Page 150] unchast thoughts, words and actions Mat. 15. 19. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies. Matt. 5. 28. But I say unto you, that whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her, hath committed adultery with her already in his heart. Eph. 5. 3, 4. But fornication and all uncleannnss; or coveteousness, let it not be once named amongst you, as becometh Saints: V. 4.] Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient; but rather giving of thanks..

Q. Which is the eighth Commandment?

A. The eight Commandment is, [Thou shalt not steal Exod. 20. 15..]

Q. What is required in the eighth Commandment?

A. The eighth Commandment requireth the lawful procuring, and furthering the wealth and outward estate of our selves, and others Gen. 30 30. For it was little which thou hadst before I came, and it is now encreased unto a multitude, and the Lord hath blessed thee since my coming, and now when shall I provide for my own house also? 1 Tim. 5. 8. But if any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse then an infidel. Lev. 25. 35. And if thy brother be waxen poor, and fallen in decay with thee, then thou shalt relieve him; yea though he be a stranger or a sojourner, that he may live with thee. Deut. 22. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Thou shalt not see thy brothers [...]x, or his sheep go astray, and hide thy self from them; thou shalt in any case bring them back again u [...]to thy brother. V. 2.] And if thy brother be not nigh unto thee, or if thou know him nor, then thou shalt bring it unto thy own house, and it shall be with thee untill thy brother seek after it, and thou shalt restore it to him again. v. 3. In like manner shalt thou do with his Ass, and so shalt thou do with his raiment, and with all lost things of thy brothers which he hath lost, and thou hast found; thou maist not hide thy self. v. 4.] Thou shalt not see thy brothers ox or his ass fall down by the way, and hide thy self from them; thou shalt surely help him to lift them up again. v. 5.] The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a womans garment; for all that do so are abomination unto the Lord thy God. Exod. 23. 4, 5. If thou meet thine enemies ox or his ass going astray, thou shalt surely bring it back to him again. v. 5.] If thou see the ass of him that hateth thee lying under his burden, and wouldest forbear to help him; thou shalt surely help with him. Gen. 47. 14▪ 20. And Joseph gathered up all the mony that was found in the land of Egypt, and Canaan, for the corn which they bought, and Jos [...]ph brought the money into Pharaohs house. v. 20.] And Joseph bought all the land of Egypt for Pharaoh; for the Egyp [...]ians sold every man his field, because the famine prevailed over them; so the land became Pharaoh's..

Q. What is forbidden in the eighth Commandment?

A. The eighth Commandment forbiddeth whatsoever doth or may, unjustly hinder our own, or our neighbors wealth, or outward estate Prov. 23. 20, 21. Be not amongst wine bibb [...]rs, amongst riotous eaters of flesh, v. 21. for the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty, and drowsiness shall cloath a man with rags. Prov. 28. 19. He that tilleth his land shall have plen [...]y of bread, but he that followeth after vain persons shall have poverty enough. Eph. 4. 28. Let him [...]hat stole, steal no more, but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing that is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth..]

Q. What is the ninth Commandment?

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A. The ninth Commandment is [Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour Exod. 20. 16..]

Q. What is required in the ninth Commandment?

A. The ninth Commandment requireth the maintaining and promoting of truth between man and man Zech. 8. 16. These are the things that ye shall do, speak ye every man the truth to his neighbor, execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates., and of our own, and of our neighbours good names 3 Joh. v. 12. Demetrius had good report of all men and of the truth it self; yea, and we also bear record, and ye know that our record is true., especially in witness▪bearing Prov. 14. 5. A faithful witness will not lie, but a false witness will utter lies. V. 25.] A true witness delivereth souls, but a deceitful witness speaketh lies..

Q. What is forbidden in the ninth Commandment?

A. The ninth Commandment forbiddeth whatsoever is prejudicial to truth, or injurious to our own or our neighbors good name 1 Sam. 17. 28. And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he sp [...]ke unto the men, and Eliabs anger was kindled against David, and he said, why camest thou down hither? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know thy pride and the naughtiness of thy heart, for thou are come down that thou mightest see the battel. Lev. 19. 16. Thou shall, not go up and down as a tale bearer among thy people, neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbor, I am the Lord. Psal. 15. 3. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doth evil to his neighbor, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbor..

Q What is the tenth Commandment?

A. The tenth Commandment is, [Thou shalt not covet thy neighbors house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbors wife, nor his man-servant, nor his maid-servant, nor his ox, nor his asse, nor any thing that is thy neighbors Exod. 20 17..]

Q. What is required in the tenth Commandment?

A. The tenth Commandment requireth full contentment with our own condition Heb. 13. 5. Let your conversation be without covetousness, and be content with such things as you have, for he hath said, I will never leave thee nor forsake thee. 1 Tim. 6. 6. But godliness with contentment is great gain., with a right and [Page 152] charitable frame of spirit toward our neighbour, and all that is his Job 31. 29. If I rejoyced at the destruction of him that hated me, or lift up my self when evil found him. Rom. 12. 15. Rejoyce with them that do rejoyce, and weep with them that weep. 1 Tim. 1. 5. Now the end of the Commandment is, charity out of a pure beart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned. 1 Cor. 13. 4, 5, 6, 7. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not, charity vaunteth not it self, is not puffed up. V. 5.] Doth not behave it self unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil. V. 6.] Rejoyceth not in iniquity, but rejoyceth in the truth; V. 7.] Beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things..

Q. What is forbidden in the tenth Commandment?

A. The tenth Commandment forbiddeth all discontentment with our own estate 1 Kin. 21. 4. And Ahab came into his house, heavy and displeased. because of the word which N [...]both the Jezreelite had spoken to him; for he had said, I will not give thee the inheritance of my fathers; and he laid him down upon his bed, and turned away his face, and would eat no bread. Esth. 5. 13. Yet all this availeth m [...] nothing, so long as I see Mordecal the Jew sitting at the Kingsgate. 1 Cor. 10. 10. Neither murmur ye as some of them also murmured and were destroyed of the destroyer., envying or grieving at the good of our neighbour ( Gal. 5. 26. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. I am. 3. 14. But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. V. 16.] For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.), and all inordinate motions and affections to any thing that is his Rom. 7. 7. What 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. V. 8.] But sin taking occasion by the commandment, wrought in me all manner of concupiscence, for without the law sin was dead. Rom. 13. 9. For this, thou shalt not commit adultery, thou shalt not kill, thou shalt not steal, thou shalt not bear false witness, thou shalt not covet, and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, thou shalt love thy neighbour as thy self. Deut. 5. 21. Neither shalt thou desire thy neighbours wife, neither shalt thou covet thy neighbours house, his field, or man servant, or his maid-servant, his [...]xe, [...]r his asse or any thing that is thy neighbours..

Q. 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 Eccl. 7. 20. For there is not a just man on earth that doth good and sinneth not. 1 Joh. 1. 8. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive our selves, and the truth is not in us. V. 10.] If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. Gal. 5. 17. For the flesh lusteth against the spirit, and the spirit against the flesh, and these are contrary the one to the other, so that ye cannot do the things that ye would., but [Page 153] doth daily break them in thought, word, and deed Gen. 6. 5. And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. Gen. 8. 21. And the Lord smelled a sweet favour, and the Lord said in his heart, I will not again curse the ground any more for mans sake, for the imagination of mans heart is evil from his [...]; neither will I again smite any more every thing living, as I have done. Rom. 3. 9. What then▪ are we better then they? no, in no wise, for we have before proved both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin—and so on to verse 21. Jam. 3. 2. For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body —and so on to verse 13..

Q. Are all transgressions of the Law equally hainous?

A. Some sins in themselves, and by reason of several aggravations, are more hainous in the sight of God then others Ezek. 8. 6. He said furthermore unto me, Son of man, seest thou what they do? even the great abominations that the house of Israel committeth here, that I should go far off from my sanctuary? but turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater abominations. V. 13.] He said also unto me, turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater abominations that they do. V. 15.] Then said he unto me, hast thou seen this, Oh son of man, turn thee yet again, and thou shalt see greater abominations then these. 1 Joh. 5. 16. If any man see his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and he shall give him life, for them that sin not unto death; there is a sin unto death, I do not say that he shall pray for it. Psal. 78. 17. 32, 56: And they sinned yet more against him; by provoking the most High in the wilderness. V. 32.] For all this they sinned still, and believed not for his wonderous works. V. 56.] Yet they tempted and provoked the most High God; and kept not his testimonies..

Q. What doth every sin deserve?

A. Every sin deserveth Gods wrath, and curse, both in this life, and that which is to come Eph. 5. 6. Let no man deceive you with vain words for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Gal 3. 10. For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse; for it is writtted, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them. Lam. 3. 39. Wherefore doth a living man complain, a man for the punishment of his sins. Mat. 25. 41. Then shall he also say unto them on the left hand, depart from me ye cursed into everlasting fire prepared for the Devil and his Angels..

Q. What doth God require of us that we may escape his wrath and curse, due to us for sin?

A. To escape the wrath and curse of God due to us for sin, God requireth of us Faith in Jesus Christ, repentance [Page 154] unto life Acts 20. 21. Testifying both to the Jews and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ., with the diligent use of all the outward means, whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of Redemption Prov. 2. 1.-5. v. 1. My son if thou wilt receive my words, and bide my commandments with thee, &c. v. 5. Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledg of God. Chap. 8. 33, 34, 35] v. 33. Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not; v. 34. Blessed is the man that heaveth me, waiting daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. v 35, but who so findeth me, findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the Lord. Isai. 55. 3. Incline your ear and come unto me, hear, and your soul shalllive, and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David..

Q. What is faith in Jesus Christ?

A. Faith in Jesus Christ is a saving grace Heb. 10. 39. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition, but of them that believe to the saving of the soul., whereby we receive, and rest upon him alone for salvation, as he is offered to us in the Gospel Joh. 1. 12. But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. Isa. 26. 3. Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee, because he trusteth in thee. V. 4.] Trust ye in the Lord for ever, for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength. Phil. 3. 9. And be found in him not having mine own righteousness which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith. Gal. 2. 16. Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Iesus Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the law, for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified..

Q. What is repentance unto life?

A. Repentance unto life is a saving grace Act. 11. 18. When they heard these things they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life., whereby a sinner out of true sense of his sin Acts 2. 37. Now when they heard this they were pricked in their hearts, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the Apostles, Men and brethren what shall we do? V. 38.] Then said Peter unto them, repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost., and apprehension of the mercy of God in Christ Ioel 2. 12. Therefore also now saith the Lord, turn ye even to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning. Ier. 3. 22. Return ye backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings; behold we come unto thee for thou art the Lord our God., doth with grief and hatred of his sin, turn from it unto God Ier. 31. 18. I have surely heard Ephraim bemoaning himself thus, thou hast chastised me, and I was chastised as a bullock unaccustomed to the yoke; turn thou me, and I shall be turned, for thou art the Lord my God. V. 19.] Surely after that I was turned, I repented, and after that I was instructed, I sm [...]te upon my thigh; I was ashamed, yea, even confounded; because I did bear the reproach of my youth. Ezek. 36. 31. Than shall ye remember your own evil ways, and your doings which were not good, and shall loath your selves in your own sight for your iniquities, and for you abominations., with full [Page 155] purpose of, and endeavour after, new obedience 2 Cor. 7. 11. For behold this self same thing that ye sorrowed after a godly sort, what carefulness it wrought in you, yea, what clearing of your selves, yea, what indignation, yea, what fear, yea, what vehement desire, yea, what zeal, yea, what revenge, in all things you have approved your selves to be clear in this matter. Isa. 1. 16. Wash ye, make ye clean, put away the evil of your doings before mine eyes, cease to do evil, V. 17.] Learn to do well, seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judg the fatherless, plead for the widow..

Q. What are the outward means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of Redemption?

A. The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of Redemption, are his Ordinances, especially the Word, Sacraments and Prayer, all which are made effectual to the Elect, for salvation Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore teach all nations baptizing them in [...]he Name of the father, and of the son, and of the holy Ghost. V. 20.] Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you, and low I am with you alway even unto the end of the world, Amen. Acts 2. 42.-46, 47. And they continued stedfastly in the Apostles Doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread and in prayers. V. 46.] And they continuing daily with one accord in the Temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart; V. 47.] Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the Church daily such as should be saved..

Q. How is the Word made effectual to salvation?

A. The Spirit of God maketh the reading, but especially the preaching of the word, an effectual means of convincing and converting sinners, and of building them up in holiness and comfort, through faith unto salvation Neh. 8. 8. So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading. 1 Cor. 14 24. But if all prophesie, and there come in one that believeth not, or one unlearned, he is convinced of all, he is judged of all. V. 25.] And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest, and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth. Acts 26. 18. To open their eyes and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctifi [...]d by faith [...]hat is in me. Psal. 19. 8. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoycing the heart, the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightning the eyes. Acts 20. 32. And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified. Rom. 15 4. For whatsoever things were written afore-time, were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. 2 Tim. 3. 15. And that from a child thou hast known the holy Scriptures which are able to make thee wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus. V. 16.] All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof for correction, &c. V. 17.] That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto good works. Rom. 10. 14. 15. ver. 14. How shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? ver. 15. and how shall they preach except they be sent? &c. and 1. 16. for I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation, to every one that believeth, to the Iew first, and also to the Greek..

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Q. How is the Word to be read and heard, that it may become effectual to salvation?

A. That the Word may become effectual to salvation, we must attend thereunto with diligence Pro. 8. 34. Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors, preparation 1 Pet. 2. 1. Wherefore laying aside all malice and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, evil speakings. V. 2.] As new born babes desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby. and prayer Psal. 119. 18. Open thou mine eyes that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law, receive it with faith and love Heb. 4. 2. For unto us was the Gospel preached as well as unto them, but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixt with faith in them that heard it. 2 Thes. 2. 10. With all deceiveableness of unrighteousness in them that perish, because they received not the love of the truth that they might be saved., lay it up in our hearts Psal. 119. 11. Thy word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against thee., and practise it in our lives Luk. 8. 15. But that on the good ground are they which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience. Iam. 1. 25. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the word, this man shall be blessed in his dealing..

Q. How do the Sacraments become effectual means of salvation?

A. The Sacraments become effectual means of salvation, not from any virtue in them, or in him that doth administer them, but only by the blessing of Christ 1 Pet. 3. 22. The like figure whereunto, even Baptisme, doth also now save us, not the putting away the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience towards God, by the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Mat. 3. 11. I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance, but he that cometh after me is mightier then I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear, he shall baptize you with the holy Ghost, and with fire. 1 Cor. 3. 6, 7. I have planted, Apollo watered, but God gave the encrease. V. 7.] So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth, but God that giveth the encrease., and the working of his Spirit in them that by faith receive them ( 1 Cor. 12. 13. For by one spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free, and have been made all to drink into one Spirit.).

Q. What is a Sacrament?

A. A Sacrament is an holy Ordinance instituted by Christ; wherein, by sensible signs, Christ and the benefits of the new Covenant are represented, sealed and applied to believers Gen. 17. 7. And I will establish my covenant between me and thee, and thy seed after thee, in their generations, for an everlasting covenant to be a God unto thee and to thy seed after thee. V. 10.] This is my covenant which ye shall keep between me and you, and thy seed after thee, every man-child among you shall be circumcised. Exod. 12. throughouts 1 Cor. 11. 23. For I have received of the Lord, that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Iesus the same night in which he was betrayed, took bread. V. 26.] For as oft as ye eat this bread and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lords death till he come.

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Q. Which are the Sacraments of the New Testament?

A. The Sacraments of the New Testament are Baptisme Mat. 28. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost., and the Lords Supper Mat. 26. 26. 27. 28. v. 26. And as they were eating, Iesus took bread and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the Disciples, and said, Take eat this is my body. v. 27. And he took the cup and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, drink ye all of i [...]. v. 28. For this is my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many, for the remission of sins..

Q. What is Baptisme?

A. Baptisme is a Sacrament wherein the washing of Water, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Ghost Mat. 28. 19. See in letter [y]., doth signifie and seal our ingrafting into Christ, and partaking of the benefits of the Covenant of Grace, and our engagement to the Lords Rom. 6. 4. Therefore we are buried with him by baptisme into death, that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. Gal. 3. 27. For as many of you as have been Baptized into Christ, have put on Christ..

Q. To whom is Baptisme to be administred?

A. Baptisme is not to be administred to any that are out of the visible Church, till they profess their faith in Christ, and obedience to him Act. 8. 36. And as they went on their way they came unto a certain water, and the Eunuch said, see, here is water, what doth hinder me to be baptized? V. 37.] And Philip said, if thou believest with all thine heart, thou maist, and he answered, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Acts 2. 38. Then Peter said unto them, repent and be baptized every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the holy Ghost., but the infants of such as are members of the visible Church are to be baptized Acts 2. 38. See before V. 39.] For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are a far off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. Gen. 17. 10. See in letter [x] Col. 2. 11, 12. In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh, by the circumcision of Christ. V. 12.] Buried with him in Baptisme, wherein also ye are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised him from the dead. 1 Cor. 7. 14. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband; else were your children unclean, but now are they holy..

Q. What is the Lords Supper?

A. The Lords Supper is a Sacrament, wherein, by giving and receiving Bread and Wine according to Christs appointment, his death is shewed forth; and the worthy receivers are, not after a corporal and carnal [Page 158] manner, but by faith, made partakers of his Body and Blood, with all his benefits to their spiritual nourishment, and groweth in grace 1 Cor. 11. 23, 34, 25, 26. I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus the same night wherein he was betrayed, took bread; V. 24.] And when he had given thanks he brake it, and said, Take, eat, this is my body which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. V. 25.] After the same manner also he took the Cup, when he had supped, saying, This Cup is the New Testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. V. 26. For as oft as ye eat this bread and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lords death till he come, 1 Cor. 10. 16. The Cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the Communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the Communion of the body of Christ?.

Q. What is required to the worthy receiving of the Lords Supper?

A. It is required of them that would worthily partake of the Lords Supper, that they examine themselves, of their knowledg to discern the Lords body 1 Cor. 11. 28, 29. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that Bread, and drink of that Cup. V. 29.] For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lords body., of their faith to feed upon him 2 Cor. 13. 5. Examine your selves whether ye be in the faith, prove your own selves, know you not that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?, of their repentance 1 Cor. 11. 31. For if we would judg our selves, we should not be judged., love 1 Cor. 10. 16. The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? the bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ? V. 17.] For we being many are one bread, and one body, for we are all partakers of that one bread., and new obedience 1 Cor. 5. 7. P [...]rge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump as ye are unleavened: for even Christ our Passeover is sacrificed for us. V. 8.] Therefore let us keep the feast not with old leaven, neitheir with the leaven of malice, and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread, of sincerity and truth., lest coming unworthily, they eat and drink judgment to themselves 1 Cor. 11. 28, 29. See in letter [f].

Q. What is Prayer?

A. Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God Psal. 62. 8. Trust in him at all times ye people; pour out your hearts before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah., for things agreeable to his will 1 Ioh. 5. 14. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us., in the Name of Christ Ioh. 16. 23. And in that day he shall ask me nothing, verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the father in my name, he will give it you., with confession of our sins Psal. 32. 5, 6 I acknowledged my sins unto thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid; I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord, and thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah. V. 6.] For this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee, in a time when thou maist be found: surely in the fl [...]ods of great waters they shall come nigh unto him. Dan. 9. 4. And I prayed unto the Lord my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the covenant and mercy to them that love him, and to them that keep his commandments., and thankful acknowledgment of his mercies Phil. 4. 6. Be careful for nothing but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made know unto God..

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Q. What rule hath God given for our direction in Prayer?

A. The whole word of God is of use to direct us in Prayer 1 Job. 5. 14. And this is the confidence that we have in him, that if we ask any thing, according to his will, he heareth us., but the speciall rule of direction is, that form of Prayer, which Christ taught his Disciples, commonly called the Lords Prayer Mat 6. 9, 10, 11, 12, 13. After this manner therefore pray ye, Our father, &c. —Luke 11. 2. And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our father, &c.—.

Q. What doth the Preface of the Lords Prayer teach us?

A. The Preface of the Lords Prayer which is, [Our Father which art in heaven Matth. 6. 9.,] teacheth us, to draw near to God with all holy reverence and confidence as children to a father ready to help us Rom. 8. 15. For we have not received the Spirit of bondage again to fear, but we have received the Spirit of Adoption, whereb [...]y we cry, Abba, Father. Luk. 11. 13. If ye then being evil know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your heavenly father give the holy Spirit to them that a [...]k him?, and that we should pray with and for others Act. 12. 5. Peter therefore was kept in prison; but prayer was made without ceasing of the Church unto God for him. 1 Tim. 2. 1, 2. I exhort therefore, that first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men. v. 2.] For Kinks, and for all that are in authority, &c.

Q. VVhat do we pray for in the first Petition?

A. In the first petition, [which is, Hallowed be thy name Mat. 6. 9.] we pray, that God would enable us and others, to glorifie him in all that whereby he maketh himself known Psal. 67. 2, 3. That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations. v. 3] Let the people praise thee, O God, let all the people praise hee., and that he would dispose all things to his own glory Psal. 83. throughout..

Q. What do we pray for in the second Petition?

A. In the second Petition, [which is, Thy Kingdom come Mat. 6. 10▪,] we pray that Satans Kingdom may be destroyed Psal. 68. 1.-18. Let God arise, let his enemies be scattered; let them also that hate him f [...]e before him.—v. 18.] Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captiviy captive, thou hast received gifts for men, yea, for the rebellious also; that the Lord God might dwell among them., and that the Kingdom of Grace might be advanced Rev. 12. 10, 11. And I heard a loud voice, saying in heaven, Now is come salvation, and strength, and the Kingdom of our God, and the power of his Christ; for the accuser of our brethren is cast down which accused them before God day and night. v. 11.] And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony, and they loved not their lives unto the death., our selves and others brought into it, and [Page 160] kept in it 2 Thes. 3. 1. Finally brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you. Rom. 10. 1. Brethren, my hearts desire and prayer to God for Israel is, That they might be saved. Joh. 17. 9.-20. I pray for them, I pray not for the world; but for them that thou hast given me, for they are thine.—v. 20.] Neither pray I for th [...]se alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word., and that the Kingdom of glory may be hastened Rev. 22. 20. He which testifieth these things saith, surely I come quickly Amen, even so, come Lord Jesus.

Q. What do we pray for in the third Petition?

A. In the third petition, (which is, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven Mat. 6. 10., We pray, that God would make us able and willing to know, obey, and submit to his will in all things Psal. 67. throughout Psal. 119. 36. Encline my heart unto thy testimonies, and not to covetousness. Mat. 26. 39. And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible let this cup pass from me, nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. 2 Sam. 15. 25. And the King said unto Zadok carry back the Ark of God into the city, If I shall finde favour in the eyes of the Lord, he will bring me again and shew me both it and his habitation? —Job. 1. 21. And said, Naked came I out of my mothers womb, and naked shall I return thither, the Lord gave and the Lord hath taken away, blessed be the name of the Lord., as the Angels do in heaven Psal. 103. 20, 21. Bless the Lord ye his Angels that excell in strength, and do his commandments, hearkning unto the voice of his word. v. 21.] Bless ye the Lord all ye his hosts, ye ministers of his that do his pleasure..

Q. What do we pray for in the fourth Petition?

A. In the fourth Petition, (which is, Give us this day our daily bread Mat. 6. 11., we pray, that of Gods free gift, we may receive a competent portion of the good things of this life and enjoy his blessing with them Prov. 30. 8, 9. Remove far from me vanity and lies, give me neither poverty, nor riches: feed me with food convenient for me. v. 9.] Lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, who is the Lord? and lest I be poor, and steal, and take the name of my God in vain. Gen. 28. 20. And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, if God will be with me, and keep me in this way that I goe, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on. 1 Tim. 1. 4, 5. For every creature of God is good and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving. v. 5.] For it is sanctified, by the word of God, and prayer..

Q. What do we pray for in the fifth Petition?

A. In the fifth Petition, which is, [and forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors Mat▪. 6. 12.,] we pray that God for Christs sake would freely pard on all our sins Psal. 51. 1, 2.-7, 9. Have mercy upon me O God, according to thy loving kindness, according unto the multitude of thy tender mercies blot out my transgressions. v. 2.] Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin. v. 7] Purge me with hysop, and I shall be clean: wash me, [...] I shall be whiter then snow. v. 9.] Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. Dan. 9. 17, 18, 19. Now therefore our God, hear thou the prayer of thy servant, and his supplication v. 19. O Lord hear, O Lord forgive for thine own sake., which we are the rather encouraged to ask, because by his grace we are enabled from the heart to forgive others Luk. 11. 4. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. Mat. 18. 35. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also to you, if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their trespasses..

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Q. What do we pray for in the sixth Petition?

A. In the sixth Petition, [which is, And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil Mat. 6. 13.,] we pray, that God would either keep us from being tempted to sin Mat. 26. 41. Watch and pray that ye enter not into temptation, the Spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak▪, or support and deliver us when we are tempted 2 Cor. 12. 8. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice that it might depart from me..

Q. What doth the conclusion of the Lords Prayer teach us?

A. The conclusion of the Lords Prayer, (which is, For thine is the Kingdom, the power and the glory for ever, Amen Mat. 6. 13., teacheth us to take our incouragement in prayer from God onely Dan. 9. 4-7, 8, 9.-16, 17, 18, 19. And I prayed unto the Lord my God, and made my confession, and said, O Lord, the great and dreadful God, keeping the Covenant and mercy to them that love him and keep his Commandments.—v. 7.] O Lord, righteousuess belongeth unto thee, but unto us confusion of faces, as at this day, to the men of Judah and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem, and unto all Israel, that are neer and that are far off, thorow all the countreys whither thou hast driven them, because of their trespass, that they have trespassed against thee. v. 8. O Lord, to us belongeth confusion of face, to our Kings, to our Princes, to our Fathers, because we have trespassed against thee. v. 9. To the Lord our God belongs mercies, and forgivenesses, though we have rebelled against him.—v. 16. O Lord, according to all thy righteousness, I beseech thee, let thine anger and thy fury be turned away from thy City Jerusalem, thy holy mountain: because for our sins, and for the iniquities of our fathers, Jerusalem and thy people are become a reproach to all that are about us. v. 17.] Now, therefore, O our God, hear the prayer of thy servant, and his supplications, and cause thy face to shine upon the Sanctuary that is desolate, for the Lords sake. v. 18.] O my God, encline thine ear, and hear, open thine eyes and behold our desolation, and the City that is called by thy Name; for we do not present our supplications before thee for our righteousness, but for thy great mercies. v. 19.] O Lord, hear, O Lord forgive, O Lord hearken and doe; defer not for thine own sake, O my God, for thy City and thy people are called by thy Name., and in our prayers to praise him, ascribing Kingdom, power and glory to him 1 Chr. 29. 10, 11, 12, 13. Wherefore David blessed the Lord before all the Congregation, and David said, Blessed be thou, Lord God of Israel, our Father for ever. v. 11.] Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty; for all that is in the heavens, and in the earth is thine: thine is the Kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as head above all. v. 12.] Both riches and honours come of thee, and thou reignest over all, and in thine hand is power and might, and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. v. 13. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name.: And in testimony of our desire and assurance to be heard, we say, Amen 1 Cor. 14. 16. Else when thou shalt bless with the Spirit, how shall he that ocupieth the room of the unlearned say Amen at thy giving of thanks; seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest? Rev. 22. 20, 21. He which testifieth these things, saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come L [...]rd Jesus. v. 21. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. AMEN..

[Page]

The Ten COMMANDMENTS EXODUS, XX.

GOD spake all these words, saying, I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.

I. Thou shalt have no other Gods before me.
II. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth; thou shalt not bow down thy self to them, nor serve them: For I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children, unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me: and shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me and keep my Commandments.
III Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain. For the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.
IV. Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy: Six dayes shalt thou labor and do all thy work; but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the LORD thy God, in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattel, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: For in six dayes the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea and all that in them is, and rested the seventh day; wherefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day, and hallowed it.
V. Honor thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.
VI. Thou shalt not kill.
VII. Thou shalt not commit adultery.
VIII. Thou shalt not steal.
IX. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.
X. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbors house, thou shalt not covet thy neighbors wife, nor his man-servant, nor his maid-servant, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbors.

FINIS.

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The LORDS PRAYER, Matth. 6.

OVr Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name, Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth, as it is in heaven, Give us this day our daily bread, And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debters, And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

The CREED.

I BELIEVE in God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth: And in Jesus Christ his onely Son our Lord, which was conceived by the holy Ghost, born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, dead and buried, he descended into hell i. e. Continued in the state of the dead, and under the power of death till the third day., the third day he rose again from the dead, he ascended into heaven, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father Almighty, from thence he shall come to judge the quick and the dead: I believe in the holy Ghost: the holy Catholick Church, the Communion of Saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.

Amen.

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SO much of every Question both in the Larger and Shorter Catechism, is repeated in the Answer, as maketh every Answer an entire Proposition, or sentence in it self: to the end the Learner may further improve it upon all occasions, for his encrease in knowledge and piety, even out of the course of catechising, as well as in it.

And albeit the substance of the doctrine comprised in that Abridgement commonly called, The Apostles Creed, be fully set forth in each of the Catechismes, so as there is no necessity of inserting the Creed it self, yet it is here annexed, not as though it were composed by the Apostles, or ought to be esteemed Canonical Scripture, as the Ten Commandments, and the Lords Prayer, (much less a Prayer, as ignorant people have been apt to make both it and the Decalogue) but because it is a brief sum of the Christian faith, agreeable to the Word of God, and anciently received in the Churches of Christ.

Cornelius Burges Prolocutor pro tempore.
Henry Roborough Scriba.
Adoniram Byfield Scriba.

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To the Right Honorable THE LORDS & COMMONS Assembled in Parliament: The Humble Advice of the Assembly of Divines, now sitting by Ordinance of Parliament at Westminster, Concerning CHURCH-GOVERNMENT

The Preface.

JEsus Christ, upon whose shoulders the Government is, whose name is called Wonderful Counsellour, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace, of the encrease of whose Government and Peace there shall be no end, who sits upon the throne of David, and upon his Kingdome to order it, and to establish it with Judgment and Justice, from henceforth even for ever, having all power given unto him in Heaven and Earth by the Father, who raised him from the dead, and set him on his own right hand, far above all Principalities and Power, and Might, and Dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come; and put all thing under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the Church, which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all: He being ascended up far above all Heavens, that he might fill all things, received gifts for his Church, and gave offices necessary for the edification of his Church, and perfecting of his Saints. Mat. 28. 18, 19, 20. v. 18. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in Heaven, and in Earth; v. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, v. 20. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you, and lo I am with you alway even unto the end of the world. Amen. Eph. 1. 20, 21, 22, 23. v. 20. Which he wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead, and set him at his own right hand in the heavenly places, v. 21. Far above all Principality and Power, and Might, and Dominion; and every name that is named, not only in this world but also in that which is to come. v. 22. And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the Church. v. 23. Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all [Page 166] in all. —compared with Eph. 4. 8, 11. v. 8. Wherefore he saith, when he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men. v. 11. And he gave some Apostles: and some Prophets: and some Evangelists: and some pastors and teachers. And with Psal. 68. 18. Thou hast ascended on high, thou hast led captivity captive, thou hast received gifts for men: yea, for the rebellious also, that the Lord God might dwell among them.

Of the Church.

THere is one General Church visible, held forth in the New Testament.] 1 Cor. 12. 12, 13, 28. For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body being many, are one body: so also is Christ. v. 13. For by one spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free: and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. v. 28. And God hath set some in the Church: First Apostles, Secondarily Prophets, Thirdly Teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings▪ helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Together with the rest of the Chapter.

The Ministry, O [...]acles and Ordinances of the New Testament, are given by Jesus Christ to the General Church visible, for the gathering and perfecting of it in this life, until his second coming.] 1 Cor. 12. 28. See before. Eph. 4. 4, 5. v. 4. There is one body, and one spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling. v. 5. One Lord, one Faith, one Baptism, —Compared with ver. 10. 11, 12, 13, 15, 16. v. 10. He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens that he might fill all things. v. 11. And he gave some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some Evangelists, and some pastors and teachers. v. 12. For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ. v. 13. Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledg of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ. v. 15. But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ. v. 16. From whom the whole body fitly joyned together, and compacted by that which every joynt supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of it self in love.

Particular visible Churches, Members of the General Church, are also held forth in the New Testament.] Gal 1. 21, 12. v. 21. Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia. v. 22. And was unknown by face unto the Churches of Judea, which were in Christ. Rev. 1. 4, 20. John to the seven Churches in Asis, Grace be unto you, and peace from him which is, and which was, and which is to come, and from the seven spirits which are before his throne. v. 20. The mistery of the seven stars which thou sawest in my right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the Angels of the seven Churches. Rev. 2. 1. Unto the Angel of the Church of Ephesus, write, These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks.

Particular Churches in the primitive times were made up of visible Saints. viz. Of such as being of age, professed faith in Christ, and obedience unto Christ, according the Rule of Faith and Life taught by Christ and his Apostles; and of their children. Acts 2. 38, 41, 47. v. 38. Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the holy Ghost. v 41. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized; and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. v. 47. Praising God, and having favour with all the people; and the Lord added to the Church daily such as should be saved.—Compared with Acts 5. 14. And believers were the more added to the Lord, multitudes both of men and women. 1 Cor. 1. 2. Unto [...]he Church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, both theirs and ours. —Compared with 2 Cor. 9 13. Whiles by the experiment of this ministration, they glorifie God for your professed subjection unto the Gospel of Christ, and for your liberal distribution unto them, and unto all men. Acts 2. 39 For the promise is unto you and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. 1 Cor. 7. 14. For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean, but now are they holy. Rom. 11. 16. For if the first-fruit be holy, the lump is also holy; and if the root be holy, so are the branches. Mar. 10. 14. But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the Kingdome of God. —Compared with Mat. 19. 13, 14▪ v. 13. Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hand on them and pray, and the disciples rebuked them. v. 14. But Iesus said suffer little children, and forbid them not t [...] come unto me; for of such is the Kingdome of heaven. Luk. 18. 15, 16. v▪ 15. And they brought unto him also infants▪ that he would touch them; but when his disciples saw it, they rebuked them. v. 16. But [...]esus called them unto him, and said, suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of such is the Kingdome of God.

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Of the Officers of the Church.

THe Officers which Christ hath appointed for the edification of his Church, and th [...] perfecting of the Saints, are,

Some extraordinary, as Apostles, Evangelists, and Prophets which are ceased.

Others ordinary and perpetual, as Pastors, Teachers, and other Church-governours, and Deacons.

Pastors.

THe Pastor is an ordinary and perpetual officer in the Church.] Jer. 3. 15. 16, 17. v. 15. And I will give you pastors according to mine heart▪ which shall feed you with knowledg and understanding. v. 16. And it shall come to pass when ye he multiplyed and increased in the land; in those dayes saith the Lord, they shall say no more, The ark of the covenant of the Lord; neither shall it come to mind, neither shall they remember it, neither shall they visit it, neither shall that be done any more. v. 17. At that time they shall call Ierusalem the throne of the Lord▪ and all the nations shall be gathered unto it, to the name of the Lord, to Ierusalem: neither shall they walk any more after the imagination of their evil heart.

Prophecying of the time of the Gospel.] 1 Pet. 5. 2, 3, 4. v. 2. Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind. v. 3. Neither as being lords over Gods heritage; but being ensamples to the flock. v. 4. And when the chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. Eph. 4. 11, 12, 13. v. 11. And he gave some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some Evangelists, and some Pastors and teachers. v. 12. For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ▪ v. 13. Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledg of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.

First, It belongs to his office;

To pray for, and with his flock, as the mouth of the people unto God.] Acts 6. 2, 4. v. 2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve Tables. v. 4. But we will give our selves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word. Acts 20. 36. And when he had thus spoken, he kneeled down and prayed with them all.

Where preaching and prayer are joyned as several parts of the same Office.] Jam. 5. 14, 15. Is any man sick among you? let him call for the Elders of the Church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oyl in the name of the Lord. v. 15. And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.

The Office of the Elder, that is the pastor, is to pray for the sick, even in private, to which a blessing is especially promised, much more therefore ought he to perform this in the publick execution of his Office as a part thereof.

To read the Scripture publickly; For the proof of which;

1. That the Priests and Levites in the Jewish Church were trusted with the publick reading of the Word,] as is proved, Deut. 31. 9, 10, 11. v. 9▪ And Moses wrote this law, and delivered it unto the priests the sons of Levi, which bare the ark of the covenant of the Lord, and unto all the elders of Israel. v. 10. And Moses commanded them, saying, At the end of every seven years, in the solemnity of the year of release, in the feast of Tabernacles, v. 11. When all Israel is come to appear before the Lord thy God, in the place which he shall chuse; thou shalt read this law before all Israel in their hearing. Neh. 8. 1, 2, 13. v. 1. And all the people gathered themselves together as one man, into the street that was before the water-gate, and they spake unto Ezra the scribe, to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the Lord had commanded to Israel. v. 2. And Ezra the priest brought the law before the congregation, both of men and women, and all that could hear with understanding, upon the first day of the seventh moneth. v. 3. and he read therein. v. 13. And on the second day were gathered together the chief of the fathers of all the people, the priests and the Levites unto Ezra the s [...]r the, even to understand the words of the law.

2. That the Ministers of the Gospel have as ample a charge and commission to dispense the Word, as well as other Ordinances, as the Priests and Levites had under the law] proved, Isa 66. 21. And I will also take of them for Priests, and for Levites, saith the Lord. Mat. 28. 34. Wherefore behold, I send unto you Prophets, and wise men, and scribes, and some of them ye shall kill and crucifie, and some of them shall ye scourge in your Synagogues, and persecute them from City to City. Where our Saviour intituleth the Officers of the New Testament, whom he will send forth by the same names of the teachers of the Old.

Which Propositions prove, that therefore (the duty being of a moral nature) it followeth by just consequence, that the publick reading of the Scriptures belongeth to the Pastors Office.

To feed the flock by preaching of the Word, according to which he is to teach, convince, reprove, exhort, and comfort. 1 Tim. 3. 2. A Bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wise, vigilant, sober of [Page 168] good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach. 2 Tim. 3. 16, 17. v. 16. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for Doctrine, for Reproof, for Correction, for Instruction in righteousness. v. 17. That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. Tit. 1. 9. Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound Doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

To Catechise, which is a plain laying down the Principles of the Oracles of God, Or of the Doctrine of Christ, and is a part of preaching. Heb. 5. 12. For when for the time ye ought to be teachers, ye have need that one teach you again which be the first Principles of the Oracles of God, and are become such as have need of milk and not of strong meat.

To dispense other Divine Misteries.] 1 Cor. 4. 1, 2. v. 1. Let a man so account of us as of the Ministers of Christ, and stewards of the misteries of God. v. 2. Moreover, it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.

To administer the Sacraments.] Mat. 28. 19, 20. v. 19. Go ye therefore and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Ghost; v. 20. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you alway even unto the end of the world. Amen. Mar. 16. 15, 16. v. 15. And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel unto every creature. v. 16. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved, but he that believeth not shall be damned. 1 Cor. 11. 23, 24, 25. v. 23. For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus, the same night in which he was betrayed, took bread. v. 24. And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take eat, this is my body which is broken for you▪ this do in remembrance of me. v. 25. After the same manner also he took the cup when he had supped, saying, This cup is the New Testament in my blood, this do ye as oft as ye drink it in remembrance of me. Compared with 1 Cor. 10. 16. The cup of blessing which we bless; is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? the bread which we break is it not the communion of the body of Christ?

To bless the people from God]. Numb. 6. 23. 24, 25, 26. v. 23. Speak unto Aaron and unto his sons, saying, On this wise ye shall bless the children of Israel, saying, unto them, v. 24. The Lord bless thee, and keep thee, v. 25. The Lord make his face to shire upon thee, v. 26. The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. Compared with Rev. 1. 4, 5. v. 4. John, to the seven Churches which are in Asia, grace be unto you, and peace from him which is, and which was, and which is to come, and from the seven spirits which are before his throne; v. 5. And from Jesus Christ who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the Kings of the earth: unto him that loved us and washed us from our sins in his own blood. (Where the same blessings and persons from whom they come are expresly mentioned)] Isa 66. 21. And I will also take of them for Priests, and for Levites, saith the Lord. [Here under the names of the Priests and Levites, to be continued under the Gospel, are meant Evangelical Pastors, who therefore are by office to bless the people. Deut. 10. 8. At that time the Lord separated the tribe of Levi, to bear the ark of the Covenant of the Lord, to stand before the Lord, to minister unto him, and to bless in his name unto this day. 2 Cor. 13, 14. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. Eph. 1. 2. Grace be to you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ.

To take care of the poor.] Act. 11. 30. Which also they did, and sent it to the elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul. Act. 4. 34, 35, 36, 37. v. 34. Neither was there any among you that lacked, for as many as were possessors of lands or houses sold them and brought the prises of the things that were sold. v. 35. And laid them down at the Apostles feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need. v. 36. And Joses, who by the Apostles was surnamed Barnabas (which is being interpreted, the son of conselation) a Levite and of the country of Ciprus, v. 37. Having land, sold it, and brought the money and laid it at the Apostles feet. Act. 6, 2, 3, 4. v. 2. Then the twelve called the multitude of the Disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God and serve Tables. v. 3. Wherefore, brethren look you out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdome, whom ye may appoint over this business. v. 4. But we will give our selves continually to prayer and to the ministery of the Word. 2 Cor. 16. 1, 2, 3, 4. v. 1. New concerning the collection for the Saints, as I have given order to the Churches of Galatia, even so do ye, v. 2. Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in st [...]re as God hath prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. v. 3. And when I come, whomsoever you shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality to Jerusalem. v. 4. And if it be meet that I go also they shall go with me. Gal. 2. 9, 10. v. 9. And when James, Cepl as and John, who seemed to be pillars, perceived the grace that was given unto me, they gave [Page 169] to me and Barnabas the right hands of fellowship, that we should go unto the heathen, and they unto the circumcision. v. 10. Only they would that we should remember the poor, the same which I also was forward to do.

And he hath also a ruling power over the Flock as a Pastor.] 1 Tim. 5. 17. Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine. Act. 20. 17. And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the elders of the Church. v. 28. Take heed therefore unto your selves, and to all the flock over thee which the Holy Ghost hath made you over- [...]eers, to feed the Church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood. 1 Thes. 5. 12. And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you. Heb. 13. 7, 17. v. 7. Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faithf follow, considering the end of their conversation. v. 17. Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit your selves, for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account: that they may do it with joy and not with grief, for that is unprofitable for you.

Teacher or Doctor.

THe Scripture doth hold out the name and Title of a Teacher, as well as of the Pastor.] 1 Cor. 12. 28. And God hath set some in the Church, First Apostles, Secondarily Prophets, Thirdly Teachers after that miracles, then gifts of healing, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Eph. 4. 11. And he gave some Apostles, and some Prophets, and some Evangelists, and some pastors and teachers.

Who is also a Minister of the Word as well as the Pastor, and hath power of administration of the Sacraments.

The Lord having given different gifts, and divers exercises according to these gifts in the ministry of the word.] Rom. 12. 6, 7, 8. v. 6. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophesie, let us prophesie according to the proportion of faith. v. 7. Or ministry, let us wait on our ministring: or be that teacheth, on teaching. v. 8. He that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth let him do it with simplicity, he that ruleth with diligence, he that sheweth mercy with cheerfulness. 1 Cor. 11. 1, 4, 5.] v. 1. Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. v. 4. Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same spirit, and there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God, which worketh all in all. v. 5. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. v. 7. But the manifestation of the spirit is given to every man to profit with all.

Though these different gifts may meet in, and accordingly be exercised by one and the same minister.] 1 Cor. 14. 3. But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. 2 Tim. 4. 2. Preach the Word, be instant in season, out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and Doctrine. Tit. 1. 9. Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught that he may be able by sound Doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.

Yet where be several Ministers in the same Congregation, they may be designed to several imployment, according to the different gifts, in which each of them do most excel] Rom. 12. 6, 7. 8. v. 6. Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophefie, let us prophesie according to the proportion of faith. v. 7. Or ministry, let us wait on our ministring, or be that teacheth on teaching. v. 8. Or he that exhorteth on exhortation: he that giveth let him do it with simplicity: he that ruleth with diligence he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness. 1 Pet. 4. 10, 11. v. 10. As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God v. 11. If any man speak let him speak as the Oracles of God; if any man minister let him do it as of the ability which God giveth, that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion, for ever and ever. Amen.

And he that doth more excel in exposition of Scripture, in teaching sound D [...]ctrine, and in convincing gain-sayers, then he doth in application, and is accordingly imployed therein, may be called a teacher or Doctor, (the places alledged by the Notation of the Word doth prove the Proposition;) Nevertheless, where is but one Minister in a patticular Congregation, he is to perform so far as he is able, the whole work of the Ministry, as appeareth in 2 Tim. 4. 2. Preach the word, be instant in season, out of season, reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine. Tit. 1. 9. Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that, he may be able by sound Doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gain-sayers. 1 Tim 6. 2. And they that have believing masters let them not dispise them, because they are brethren, but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit: these things teach and exhort.

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A Teacher or Doctor is of most excellent use in Schools and Universities, as of old in the Shools of the Prophets, and at Ierusalem, where Gamaliel and others taught as Doctors.

Other Church-governours.

As there were in the Jewish Church Elders of the people, joyned with the Priests and Levites in the Government of the Church,] as appeareth in 2 Chron. 19. 8, 9, 10. v. 8. Moreover, in Jerusalem did Jehoshaphat set of the Levites, and of the Priests, and of the chief of the fathers of Israel, for the judgment of the Lord, and for controversies, when they returned to Jerusalem. v. 9. And he charged them, saying, Thus shall ye do in the fear of the Lord, faithfully, and with a perfect heart. v. 10. And what cause soever shall come to you of your brethren that dwell in their Cities, between blood and blood, between law and commandment and statutes and judgments, ye shall even warn them that they trespass not against the Lord, and so wrath come upon you, and upon your brethren, this do and ye shall not trespass.

So Christ, who hath instituted a Government, and Governours Ecclesiastical in the Church, hath furnished some in his Church, beside the Ministers of the Word, with gifts for governments, and with commission to execute the same, when called there unto, who are to joyn with the Minister in the government of the Church.] Rom. 12. 7, 8. v. 7. Or Ministry, let us wait on our ministring; or he that teacheth, on teaching. v. 8. Or he that exhorteth on exhortation, he that giveth let him do it with simplicity, he that ruleth with diligence, he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness. 1 Cor. 12. 28. And God hath set some in the Church, first Apostles, secondarily Prophets, thirdly Teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

Which Officers reformed churches commonly call Elders.

Deacons.

THe Scripture doth hold out Deacons as distinct officers in the church.] Phil. i. [...]. Paul and Timotheus the servant of Jesus Christ, to all saints in Christ Jesus, whith are at Philippi with the Bishops and Deacons. 1 Tim. 3. 8. Likewise must the Deacons be grave not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre.

Whose Office is perpetual.] 1 Tim. 3. 8. Likewise must the Deacons be grave, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy of filthy lucre; to ver. 15. see in the Bible. Act. 6. 1, 2, 3, 4. v. 1. And in those dayes, when the number of the Disciples was multiplyed, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily manistration. v. 2. Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. v. 3. Wherefore brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the holy Ghost, and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. v. 4. But we will give our selves continually to prayer, and to the Ministry of the word.

To whose Office it belongs not to preach the Word or administer the Sacraments, but to take special care in distributing to the necessities of the poor.] Act. 6. 1, 2, 3, 4. see before

Of Particular Congregations.

IT is lawful and expedient that there be fixed congregations, that is, a certain company of christians to meet in one Assembly, ordinarily for publick Worship. When believers multiply to such a number, that they cannot conveniently meet in one place, it is lawful and expedient that they should be divided into distinct and fixed congregations, for the beter administration of such ordinances as belong unto them, and the discharge of mutual duties. 1 Cor. 14. 26, 33, 40. v. 26. Let all things be done unto edifying. v. 33. For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all Churches of the Saints. v. 40. Let all things be done decently, and in order.

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The ordinary way of dividing Christians into distinct Congregations, and most expedient for edification, is by the respective bounds of their dwellings.

First, Because they who dwell together, being bound to all kind of moral duties one to another, have the better opportunity thereby to discharge them, which moral tye is perpetual, for Christ came not to destroy the Law, but to fulfil it.] Deut. 15. 7, 11. If there be among you a poor man of one of thy brethren within any of thy gates, in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not harden thy heart, nor shut thy hand from thy poor brother. v. 11. For the poor shall never cease out of the land; therefore I command thee, saying, Thou shalt open thy hand wide unto thy brother, to the poor, and to the needy in the land. Mat. 22. 39. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thy self. Mat. 5. 17. Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets. I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.

Secondly, The communion of saints must be so ordered, as may stand with the most convenient use of the Ordinances, and discharge of moral duties without respect of persons. 1 Cor. 14. 26. Let all things be done unto edifying. Heb. 10. 24, 25. v. 24. And let us consider one another, to provoke unto love, and to good works. v. 25. Not forsaking the Assembling of our selves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another, and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. Jam. 2. 1, 2. v. 1. My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. v. 2. For if there come into your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment.

Thirdly, The pastor and people must so nearly cohabite together, as that they may mutually perform their duties each to other with most conveniency.

In this company some must be set apart to bear office.

Of the Officers of a particular Congregation.

FOr Officers in a single Congregation, there ought to be one at the least, both to labour in the Word and Doctrine, and to rule. Prov. 29. 18. Where there is no vision the people perish; but he that keepeth the law, happy is he. 1 Tim. 5. 17. Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the Word and Doctrine. Heb. 13. 7. Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God, whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.

It is also requisite that there should be others to joyn in Government. 1 Cor. 12. 28. And God hath set some in the Church, First Apostles, Secondarily Prophets, Thirdly Teachers, after that Miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

And likewise it is requisite, that there be others to take special care for the reliefe of the poor Acte 6. 2, 3. v. 2. Then the twelve called the multitude of the Disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the Word of God, and serve tables. v. 3. Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the holy Ghost, and wisdome, whom ye may appoint over this business.

The number of each of which is to be proportioned according to the condition of the Congregation.

These officers are to meet together at convenient and set times, for the well ordering of the affairs of that Congregation, each according to his office.

It is most expedient, that in these meetings one, whose office is to labour in the Word and Doctrine, do moderate in their proceedings. 1 Tim. 5. 17. Let the elders that rule well, be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the Word and Doctrine.

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Of the Ordinances in a particular Congregation.

THe Ordinances in a single Congregation, are Prayer, Thanksgiving, and singing of Psalms.] 1 Tim. 2. 1. I exhort therefore, that first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men. 1 Cor. 14. 15, 16. v. 15. What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and will pray with understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also v. 16. Else when thou shalt bless with the spirit, how shall he that occupieth the room of the unlearned, say Amen as the giving of thanks, seeing he understandeth not what thou sayest?

The Word read (although there follow no immediate explication of what is read) the Word expounded and applyed, Catechizing, the Sacraments administred, Collection made for the poor, dismissing the people with a blessing.

Of Church-Government, and the several sorts of Assemblies for the same.

CHrist hath instituted a Government, and Governours Ecclesiastical in the Church, to that purpose the Apostles did immediately receive the keys from the hand of Jesus Christ, and did use and exercise them in all the Churches of the world upon all occasions.

And Christ hath since continually furnished some in his Church with gifts of Government, and with commission to execute the same when called thereunto.

It is lawful and agreeable to the word of God, that the Church be governed by several sorts of Assemblies, which are Congregational, Classical, and Synodical.

Of the Power in common of all these Assemblies.

IT is lawful and agreeable to the Word of God, that the several Assemblies before mentioned, have power to convent and call before them any person within their several bounds, whom the Ecclesiastical business which is before them, doth concern, proved by, Mat. 18. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20. v. 15. Moreover, if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. v. 16. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be est [...]blished. v. 17. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the Church: but if he neglect to hear the Church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man, and a publican. v. 18. Verily, I say unto you, whatsoever ye shall binde on earth, shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth, shall be loosed in heaven. v. 19. Again, I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth, as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. v. 20. For where two or three are gathered together in my Name, there am I in the midst of them.

They have power to hear and determine such causes and differences as do orderly come before them.

It is lawful and agreeable to the Word of God, that all the said Assemblies have some power to dispense Church-censures.

Of Congregational Assemblies, that is, The meeting of the Ruling Officers of a particular Congregation for the Government thereof.

THe Ruling Officers of a particular Congregation, have power Authoritatively, to call before them any member of the Congregation, as they shall see just occasion.

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To enquire into the knowledg and spiritual estate of the several members of the Congregation.

To admonish and to rebuke.

Which three branches are proved by Heb. 13. 17. Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit your selves, for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account that they may do it with joy and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. 1 Thes. 5. 12, 13. v. 12. And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you: v. 13. And to esteem them very highly in love for their works sake, and be at peace among your selves. Ezek. 34. 4. The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up that which was broken, neither have ye brought again that which was driven away, neither have ye sought that which was lost: but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them.

Authoritative suspension from the Lords Table, of a person not yet cast out of the Church, is agreeable to the Scripture.

First, Because the Ordinance it self must not be profaned.

Secondly, Because we are charged to withdraw from these that walk disorderly.

Thirdly, Because of the great sin and danger, both to him that comes unworthily, and also to the whole Church.] Mat. 7. 6. Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again, and rent you. 2 Thes. 3. 6, 14, 15. v. 6. Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw your selves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us. v. 14. And if any man obey not our word by this Epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed. v. 15. Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother. 1 Cor. 11. 27. Wherefore, whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. So on to the end of the chap. Compared with Jude v. 23. And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. 1 Tim. 5. 22. Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other mens sins. Keep thy self pure,

And there was power and Authority under the Old Testament, to keep unclearn persons from holy things.] Lev. 13. 5. And the priest shall look on him the seventh day; and behold, if the plague in his sight be at a stay, and the plague spread not in the skin, then the priest shall shut him up seven dayes more. Numb. 9. 7. And those men said unto him, We are defiled by the dead body of a man; wherefore we are kept back, that we may not offer an offering of the Lord in his appointed season among the children of Israel. 2 Chr. 23. 19. And he sets porters at the gates of the house of the Lord, that none that was unclean in any thing should enter in.

The like power and Authority by way of Analogy continues under the New Testament.

The Ruling Officers of a particular Congregation, have power authoritatively to suspend from the Lords Table, a person not yet cast out of the Church.

First, Because those who have Authority to judg of, and admit such as are fit to receive the Sacrament, have Authority to keep back such as should be found unworthy.

Secondly, Because it is an Ecclesiastical business of ordinary practice belonging to that Congregation.

When Congregations are divided and fixed they need all mutual help one from another, both in regard of their intrinsecal weaknesses, and mutual dependence; as also in regard of enemies from without.

Of Classical Assemblies.

THe Scripture doth hold out a Presbytery in a Church, both in 1 Tim. 4. 14. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the Presbytery. And in Acts 15. 2, 4, 6. v. 2. When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissention and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them should go up to Jerusalem unto the Apostles and Elders about this question. v. 4. And when they were come to Jerusalem, they [Page 204] were received of the Church and of the Apostles and Elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them. v. 6. And the Apostles and Elders came together, for to consider of this matter.

A Presbytery consisteth of Ministers of the Word, and such other publick Officers as are agreeable to, and warranted by the Word of God, to be Church-governours, to joyn with the Ministers in the Government of the Church, as appeareth. Rom. 12. 7, 8. v. 7. Or Ministry, let us wait on our Ministring; or he that teacheth on reaching. v. 8. Or he that exhorteth on exhortation: he that giveth let him do it with simplicity, he that ruleth with diligence, he that sheweth mercy with cheerfulness. 1 Cor. 12. 28. And God hath set some in the Church, first Apostles, secondarily, Prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.

The Scripture doth hold forth, that many particular Congregations may be under one Presbyterial Go ernment.

This proposition is proved by instances.

1. First, Of the Church of Jerusalem, which consisteth of more Congregations then one, and all these Congregations were under one Presbyterial Goverment.

This appeareth t [...]us.

[...]. First, The Church of Jerusalem consisteth of more Congregations then one, as is manifest,

1. By the multitude of believers, mentioned in divers.

Both before the dispersion of the believers there, by means of the persecutions, (mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles. chap. 8. in the beginning thereof,) witness. Acts 1. 15. And in those dayes Peter stood up in the midst of the Disciples, and said, The number of the names together were about an hundred and twenty. Acts 2. 41, 46. 47. v. 41. Then they that gladly received his word, were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. v. 46. And they continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart. v. 47. Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the Church daily such as should be saved. Acts 5. 14. And believers were the more added unto the Lord, multitudes, both of men and women. Acts 6. 1. 7. v. 1. And in those dayes, when the number of the Disciples was multiplied, there a rose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration. v. 7. And the Word of God increased, and the number of the Disciples multiplyed in Jerusalem greatly, and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

And also after the dispersion] Acts 9. 31. Then had the Churches rest throughout all Judea, and Galilee, and Samaria, and were edified, and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the holy Ghost, were multiplied. Acts 12. 24. But the Word of God grew and multiplied. Acts. 21. 20. And when they heard it, they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousand of Jews there are which believe, and they are all zealous of the law.

Secondly, By the many Apostles and other Preachers in the Church of Jerusalem: And if there were but one Congregation there, then each Apostle preached but seldome, which will not consist with Acts 6. 2. Then the twelve called the multitude of the Disciple [...] unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the Word of God and serve tables.

Thirdly, The diversity of Languages amongst the Believers, mentioned both in the second and sixth chapters of the Acts, doth argue more Congregations then one in that Church.

2. Secondly, All those congregations were under one Presbyterial government; because, First, They were one Church. Acts 8. 1. And Saul was consenting unto his death. And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem, and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judea and Samaria, except the Apostles. Acts 2. 47. Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added unto the church daily such as should be saved. Compared with chap. 5. 11. And great fear came upon all the church, and upon as many as heard these things. & chap. 12▪ 5. Peter therefore was kept in prison, hut prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. & chap. 15. 2. When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them should go up to Jerusalem unto the Apostles and Elders about this question.

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Secondly, The Elders of the Church are mentioned. Act. 11. 30. Which also they did, and sent it to the Elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul. Acts 15. 4, 6, 22. v. 4. And when they were come to Jerusalem, they mere received of the Church, and of the Apostles and Elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them. v. 6. And the Apostles and Elders came together to consider of this matter. v. 22. Then it pleased the Apostles and Elders, with the whole Church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and B [...]rnabas, namely Judas sirnamed Barsabas, and Silus, chief men among the brethren. And ch. 21. 17, 18. v. 17. And when we were come to Jerusalem the brethren received us gladly: v. 18. And the day following Paul went in with us unto James, and all the Elders were present.

Thirdly, The Apostles did the ordinary Acts of Presbyters, as Presbyters in that Church, which proveth a Presbyterial Church before the dispersion. Act. 6

Fourthly, The several Congregations in Jerusalem being one Church, the Elders of that Church are mentioned as meeting together for acts of Government. Act. 11. 30. Which also they did and sent it to the Elders by the hands of Barnabas and Saul. Acts 15. 4, 6, 22. v. 4. And when they were come to Jerusalem they were received of the Church, and of the Apostles and Ellers, and they declared all things that God had done with them. v. 6. And the Apostles and Elders came together for to consider of this matter. v. 22. Then it pleased the Apostles and Elders, with the whole Church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch with Paul and Barnabas, namely, Judas sirnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren. Acts 21. 17, 18. v. 17. And when they were come to Jerusalem the brethren received us gladly: v. 18. And the day following Paul went in with us unto James, and all the Elders were present; and so forward: Which proves that those several Congregations were under one Presbyterial Government.

And whether these Congregations were fixed or not fixed, in regard of Officers or Members, it is all one as to the truth of the Proposition.

Nor doth there appear any material difference betwixt the several Congregations in Jerusalem, and the many Congregations now in the ordinary condition of the Church, as to the point of fixednesse required of Officers or Members.

3. Thirdly, Therefore the Scripture doth hold forth, that many Congregations may be under one Presbyterial Government.

II. Secondly, By the instance of the Church of Ephesus, for

1. That they were more Congregations then one in the Church of Ephesus, appears by Act 10. 31. Therefore watch, and remember that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. Where is mention of Pauls continuance at Ephesus in preaching for the space of three years: And Acts 19. 18. And many that believed came and confessed, and shewed their deeds; v. 19. Many also of them which used curious arts brought their books together and burned them before all men, and they counted the price of them and found it fifty thousand pieces of silver: v. 20. So mightily grew the Word of God and prevailed. Act. 19. 10. And this continued by the space of two years, so that all they who dwelt in Asia heard the word of the Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks. v. 17. And this was known to all the Jews and Greeks also dwelling at Ephesus, and fear fell on them all, and the Name of the Lord Jesus was magnified. 1 Cor. 16. 8. But I will tarry at Ephesus until Pentecost. v. 9. For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries. v. 19. The Churches of Asia salute you, Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the Church that is in their house. Where the special effect of the Word is mentioned; and verse 10 and 17 of the same Chapter, where is a distinction of Iews and Greeks, and 1 Cor. 16. 8, 9. where a reason of Pauls stay at Ephesus untill Pentecost, and verse 19 where is mention of a particular Church in the house of Aquila and Priscila then at Ephesus, as appears Acts 18. 19. And he came to Ephesus and left them there, but he himself entred into the Synagogue, and reasoned with the Iews. v. 24. And a certain Iew named Apollos, born at Alexandria an Eloquent man and mighty in the Scriptures, came to Ephesus; v. 26. And he began to speak boldly in the Synagogue, whom when Acquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.

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All which laid together doth prove, that the multitudes of believers did make more Congregations then one in the Church of Ephesus.

2. That there were many Elders over these many Congregations, as one flock, appeareth, Act. 20. 17. And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the Elders of the Church. v. 28. Take heed therefore unto your selves, and to all the flock over the which the holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the Church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

3. That these many Congregations were one Church, and that they were under one Presbyterial Government, appeareth, Rev. 2. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. v. 1. Unto the Angel of the Church of Ephesus, write, These things saith he that holdeth the seven Stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks: v. 2. I know thy works and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil; and thou hast tryed them which say they are Apostles, and are not, and hath found them liars. v. 3. And hast horn, and hast patience, and for my names sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. v. 4. Nevertheless, I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. v. 5. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works, or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. v. 6. But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. Joyned with Act. 20. 17, 28. of which see before.

Of Synodical Assemblies.

THe Scripture doth hold out another sort of Assemblies for the Government of the Church, beside Classical, and Congregational, all which we call Synodical. Acts 15. 2, 6, 22, 23. v. 2. When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no smal dissention and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas: and certain other of them should go up to Jerusalem unto the Apostles and Elders about this question. v. 6. And the Apostles and Elders came together, for to consider of this matter. v. 22. Then pleased it the Apostles and Elders, with the whole Church, to send chosen men of their own company to Antioch, with Paul and Barnabas: namely, Judas, surnamed Barsabas, and Silas, chief men among the brethren. v. 23. And wrote letters by them after this manner: The Apostles, and Elders, and Brethren, send greeting unto the brethren which are of the Gentiles in Antioch, and Syria, and Cilicia.

Pastors and Teachers, and other Church-Governours, (as also other fit persons, when it shall be deemed expedient) are members of those Assemblies which we call Synodical, where they have a lawful calling thereunto.

Synodical Assemblies may lawfully be of several sorts, as Provinical, National, and Occumenical.

It is lawful and agreeable to the word of God, that there be a subordination of Congregational, Classical, Provincial, and National Assemblies for the Government of the Church.

Of Ordination of Ministers.

UNder the head of Ordination of Ministers is to be considered either the Doctrine of Ordination, or the power of it.

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Touching the Doctrine of Ordination.

NO man ought to take upon him the Office of a Minister of the Word without a lawful calling.] Joh. 3. 27. John answered and said, a man can receive nothing, except it be given him from heaven. Rom. 10. 14, 15. v. 14. How then shall they call on him, in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him, of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? v. 15. And how shall they preach except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the Gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things. Jer. 14. 14. Then the Lord said unto me, The prophets prophesie lies in my name, I sent them not, neither have I commanded them, neither sake I unto them; they prophesie unto you a false vision and divination, and a thing of nought, and the deceit of their heart. Heb. 5. 4. And no man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron.

Ordination is alwayes to be continued in the Church.] Tit. 15. For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldst set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every City, as I had appointed thee. 1 Tim. 5. 21, 22. v. 21. I charge thee before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, and the elect Angels, that thou observe these things, without preferring one before another, doing nothing by partiality. v. 22. Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other mens sins. Keep thy self pure.

Ordination is the solemn setting apart of a person to some publick Church-office.] Numb. 8, 10, 11, 14, 19, 22. v. 10. And thou shalt bring the Levites before the Lord▪ and the children of Israel shall put their hands upon the Levites. v. 11. And Aaron shall offer the Levites before the Lord, for an offering of the children of Israel, that they may execute the service of the Lord. v. 14. Thus shalt thou separate the Levites from among the children of Israel; and the Levites shall be mine. v. 19. And I have given the Levites as a gift to Aaron, and to his sons, from among the children of Israel; to do the service of the children of Israel, in the Tabernacle of the Congregation, and to make an atonement for the children of Israel; that there be no plague among the children of Israel, when the children of Israel come nigh unto the Sanctuary. v. 22. And after that went the Levites in, to do their service in the Tabernacle of the Congregation, before Aaron, and before his sons; as the Lord had commanded Moses, concerning the Levites, so did they unto them. Acts 6. 3, 5, 6 v. 3. Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the holy Ghost, and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. v. 5. And the saying pleased the whole multitude, and they those Stephen, a man full of faith, and of the holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Permenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch. v. 6. Whom they had set before the Apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.

Every Minister of the Word is to be ordained by imposition of hands, and prayer with fasting, by those preaching Presbyters to whom it doth belong. 1 Tim. 5. 22. Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other mens sins. Keep thy self pure. Acts 14. 23. And when they had ordained them Elders in every Church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed. Acts 13. 3. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.

It is agreeable to the Word of God, and very expedient, that such as are to be ordained Ministers, be designed to some particular Church, or other ministerial charge▪] Acts 14. 23. See before. Tit. 1. 5. For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldst set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain Elders in every City, as I had appointed thee. Acts 20, 17, 28. v. 17. And from Miletus he sent to Ephesus, and called the Elders of the Church. v. 28. Take heed therefore unto your selves, and to all the flock over the which the holy Ghost hath made you over-seers, to feed the Church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.

He that is to be ordained Minister, must be duly qualified both for life and Ministerial abilities, according to the Rules of the Apostles.] 1 Tim. [...]3. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. v. 2. A Bishop hen must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach. v. 3. Not [Page 208] given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre, but patient; not a brawler, not covetons: v. 4. One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity: v. 5. (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the Church of God?) v. 6. Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride, he fall into the condemnation of the Devil. Tit. 1. 6, 7, 8, 9. v. 6. If any man be blameless, the husband of one wife, having faithful children, not accused of riot, or unruly. v 7. For a Bishop must be blameless, as the Steward of God; not self-willed, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre: v. 8. But a lover of hospitality, a lover of good men, sober, just, holy, temperate. v. 9. Holding fast the faithful word, as he hath been taught, that he may be able by sound doctrine, both to exhort, and to convince the gain-sayers.

He is to be examined and approved by those by whom he is to be ordained. 1 Tim. 3. 7, 10. v. 7. Moreover, he must have a good report of them which are without, l [...]st he fall into reproach, and the snare of the Devil. v. 10. And let these also first be proved, then let them use the office of a Deacon, being found blameless. 1 Tim. 5. 22. Lay hands suddenly on no man, neither be partaker of other mens sins. Keep thy self pure.

No man is to be ordained a Minister for a particular Congregation, if they of that Congregation can shew just cause of exception against him. 1 Tim. 3. 2. A Bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach. Tit. 1. 7. For the Bishop must be blameless as the Steward of God, &c.

Touching the Power of Ordination.

ORdination is the Act of a Presbytery. 1 Tim. 4. 14. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophesie, with the laying on of the hands of the Presbytery.

The power of ordering the whole work of Ordination is in the whole Presbytery, which, when it is over more Congregations then one, whether those Congregations be fixed or not fixed, in regard of Officers or Members, it is indifferent as to the point of Ordination. 1 Tim. 4. 14. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophesie, with the laying on of the hands of the Presbytery.

It is very requisite that no single Congregation that can conveniently associate, do assume to it self all and sole power in Ordination.

1. Because there is no Example in Scripture, that any single Congregation which might conveniently associate, did assume to it self all and sole power Ordination, neither is there any rule which may warrant such a practise.

2. Because there is in Scripture Example of an Ordination in a Presbytery over divers Congregations, as in the Church of Jerusalem, where were many Congregations, these many Congregations were under one Presbytery, and this Presbytery did ordain.

The Preaching Presbyters orderly associated either in Cities or neighbouring Villages, are those to whom the imposition of hands doth appertain for those Congregations within their bounds respectively.

[Page 209]

To the Right Honourable THE LORDS and COMMONS Assembled in Parliament: The Humble Advice of the Assembly of Divines, now sitting by Ordinance of Parliament at Westminster, Concerning The Doctrinall part of Ordination of MINISTERS.

1 NO man ought to take upon him the office of a Minister of the Word without a lawful calling, John 3. 27. Rom. 10. 14, 15. Jer. 14. 14. Heb. 5. 4.

2. Ordination is alwayes to be continued in the Church, Titus 1. 5. 1 Tim. 5. 21, 22.

3. Ordination is the solemn setting apart of a person to some publique Church Office, Numb. 8, 10, 11, 14, 19, 22. Acts 6. 3, 5, 6.

4. Every Minister of the Word is to be ordained by imposition of hands, and Prayer with Fasting, by those preaching Presbyters to whom it doth belong, 1 Tim. 5. 22. Acts 14. 23. and 13. 3.

5. The power of ordering the whole work of Ordination, is in the whole Presbytery, which, when it is over more Congregations then one, whether those Congregations be fixed or not fixed, in regard of Officers or Members, it is indifferent as to the point of Ordination, 1 Tim. 4. 14.

6. It is agreeable to the Word of God, and very expedient, that such as are to be ordained M [...] nisters, be designed to some particular Church or other Ministerial charge, Acts 14. 23. Tit. 1. 5. Acts 20. 17. and 28.

7. He that is to be ordained Minister, must be duly qualified both for life and Ministerial abilities, according to the rules of the Apostle, 1 Tim. 3. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6. Tit. 1, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.

8. He is to be examined and approved by those by whom he is to be ordained, 1 Tim. 3. 7. 10 and 5. [...]2.

9. No man is to be ordained a minister for a particular Congregation, if they o [...] that Congregation can shew just cause of exception against him, 1 Tim. 3. 2. Tit. 1. 7.

10. Preaching Presbyters orderly associated, either in Cities, or neighbouring Villages, are those to whom the imposition of hands doth appertain, for these Congregations within their bounds respectively, 1 Tim. 4. 14.

11. In extraordinary cases, something may be don [...], untill a setled order may [...]e had, yet keeping as near as possible may be to the rule, 2 Chron. 19. 34, 35, 36. 2 Chron. 30. 2, 3, 4, 5.

12. There is at this time (as we humbly conceive) an extraordinary occasion for a way of Ordination for the present supply of Ministers.

[Page 300]

The Directory for Ordination of Ministers

IT being manifest by the Word of God, that no man ought to take upon him the Office of a Minister of the Gospel, untill he be lawfully called and ordained thereunto: And that the work of Ordination is to be performed with all due care, wisdome, gravity and solemnity, we humbly tender these directions as requisite to be observed.

1. He that is to be ordained, being either nominated by the people, or otherwise commended to the Presbytery for any place, must addresse himself to the Presbytery, and bring with him a Testimonial of his taking the Covenant of the three Kingdoms, of his diligence and proficiency in his Studies; What degrees he hath taken in the University, and what hath been the time of his abode there; and withal of his age, which is to be twenty four yeers, but especially of his life and conversation.

2. Which being considered by the Presbytery, they are to proceed, to enquire touching the Grace of God in him, and whether he be of such holinesse of life as is requisite in a Minister of the Gospel, and to examine him touching his learning and sufficiency, and touching the evidences of his Calling to the holy Ministry, and in particular his fair and direct Calling to that place.

The Rules for Examination are these.

1. That the party examined be dealt withal in a brotherly way, with mildnesse of spirit, and with special respect to the gravity, modesty, and quality of every one.

2. He shall be examined touching his skill in the Original Tongues, and his tryal to be made by reading the Hebrew and Greek Testaments, and rendring some portion of some into Latin; and if he be defective in them, enquiry shall be made the more strictly after his other Learning, and whether he hath skill in Logick and Phylosophy.

3. What Authors in Divinity he hath read, and is best acquainted with, and triall shall be made in his knowledge of the grounds of Religion, and ability to defend the Orthodox Doctrine contained in them, against all unsound and erronious opinions, especially these of the present age; of his skill in the sense and meaning of such places of Scripture as shall be proposed unto him in cases of Conscience, and in the Chronology of the Scripture, and the Ecclesiastical History.

4. If he hath not before preached in publique, with approbation of such as are able to judge, he shall, at a competent time assigned him, expound before the Presbytery such a place of Scripture as shall be given him.

5. He shall also, within a competent time frame a discourse in Latin upon such a common place or Controversie in Divinity as shall be assigned him, and exhibite to the Presbytery such Theses as expresse the sum thereof, and maintain a Dispute upon them.

6. He shall preach before the people, the Presbytery, or some of the Ministers of the Word appointed by them, being present.

7. The proportion of his gifts in relation to the place unto which he is called, shall be considered.

8. Beside the trial of his gifts in Preaching, he shall undergo an examination in the Premises two several dayes, and more, if the Presbytery shall judge it necessary.

9. And as for him that hath been formerly ordained a Minister, and is to be removed to another Charge, he shall bring a Testimonial of his Ordination, and of his abilities and Conversation, whereupon his fitnesse for that place shall be tryed by his Preaching there, (if it shall be judged necessary) by a further examination of him.

3. In all which he being approved, he is to be sent to the Church where he is to serve, there to preach three several days,, and to converse with the people, that they may have tryal of his gifts for their edification, and may have time and occasion to enquire into, and the better to know his life and conversation.

4. In the last of these three dayes, appointed for the tryal of his gifts in preaching, there shall be sent from the Presbytery to the Congregation, a publike intimation in writing, which shall be publikely read before the people; and after affixed to the Church door, to signifie, tha [...] such a day a [Page 301] competent number of the Members of that Congregation nominated by themselves, shall appear before the Presbytery, to give their consent and approbation to such a man to be their Minister, or otherwise to put in with all Christian discretion and meeknesse what exceptions they have against him, and if upon the day appointed there be no just exception against him, but the people give their consent, then the Presbytery shall proceed to Ordination.

5. Upon the day appointed for Ordination, which is to be performed in that Church, where he that is to be ordained is to serve, a solemn Fast shall be kept by the Congregation, that they may the more earnestly joyn in Prayer for a blessing upon the Ordinance of Christ, and the labours of his Servant for their good. The Presbytery shall come to the place, or at least three or four Ministers of the Word shall be sent thither from the Presbytery of which one appointed by the Presbytery, shall preach to the People, concerning the office and du [...]y of Ministers of Christ, and how the People ought to receive them for their work sake.

6. After the Sermon, the Minister who hath preached, shall in the face of the Congregation demand of him who is now to be ordained concerning his faith in Christ Jesus, and his perswasion of the truth of the Reformed Religion according to the Scripture; His sincere intentions and ends in desiring to enter into this Calling; His diligence in Praying, Reading, Meditation, Preaching, Ministring the Sacraments, Discipline and doing all Ministerial Duties towards his Charge; His Zeal and Faithfulnesse in maintaining the Truth of the Gospel, and Unity of the Church against Error and Schism; His care that himself and his Family may be unblameable and examples to the Flock; His willingnesse and humility in meeknesse of Spirit, to submit unto the admonitions of his Brethren, and Discipline of the Church; And his resolution to continue in his duty against all trouble and persecution

7. In all which having declared himself, professed his willingnesse, and promised his endeavours by the help of God; The Minister likewise shall demand of the people, concerning their willingnesse to receive and acknowledge him as the Minister of Christ, and to obey and submit unto him, as having rule over them in the Lord, and to maintaine, encourage and assist him in all the parts of his Office.

Which being mutually promised by the people, the Presbytery, or the Ministers sent from them for Ordination, shall solemnly set him apart to the Office and work of the Ministry, by laying their hands on him, which is to be accompanied with a short Prayer or Blessing, to this effect

8. Thankfully acknowledging the great mercy of God, in sending Jesus Christ for the redemption of his people, and for his ascension to the right hand of God the Father, and thence pouring out his Spirit, and giving gifts to Men, Apostles, Evangelists, Prophets, Pastors and Teachers, for the gathering and building up of his Church, and for fitting and inclining this man to this great work; To entreat him to fit him with his holy Spirit, to give him (who in his name we thus set apart to this holy service) to fulfil the Work of his Ministry in all things, that he may both save himself and his people committed to his charge.

9. This or the like form of Prayer and Blessing being ended, let the Minister who preached, briefly exhort him to consider of the greatnesse of his Office and Work, the danger of negligence both to himself and his people, the blessing which will accompany his faithfulnesse in this life, and that to come; and withall exhort the people to carry themselvs to him as to their Minister in the Lord, according to their solemn promise made before; and so by Prayer commending both him and his Flock to the Grace of God, after singing of a Psalm, let the Assembly be dismissed with a Blessing.

10. If a Minister be designed to a Congregation, who hath been formerly ordained Presbyter according to the form of Ordination which hath been in the Church of England, which we hold for substance to be valid, and not to be disclaimed by any who have received it; Then there being a cautious proceeding in matters of Examination, let him be admitted without any new Ordination.

11. And in case any Person already ordained Minister in Scotland, or in any other reformed Church, be designed to a Congregation in England, he is to bring from the Church to that Presbytery here, within which that Congregation is, a sufficient testimonial of his Ordination, of his life and conversation while he lived with them, and of the causes of his removal; And to undergo such a tryal of his fitnesse and sufficiency, and to have the same course held with him, in other particulars, as is set down in the rule immediately going before touching Examination and Admission.

12. That Records be carefully kept in the several Presbyteries, of the names of the Persons ordained, [Page 302] with their testimonials, the time and place of their Ordination, of the Presbyters who did impose hands upon them, and of the charge to which they are appointed.

13. That no money or gift, of what kind soever, shall be received from the Person to be ordained, or from any on his behalf, for Ordination, or ought else belonging to it, by any of the Presbytery, or any appertaining to any of them, upon what pretence soever.

Thus far of ordinary rules and course of Ordination in the ordinary way; That which concernes the extraordinary way, requisite to be now practised, followeth.

1. In these present exigencies, while we cannot have any Presbyteries formed up to their whole power and work, and that many Ministers are to be ordained for the service of the Armies and Navy, and too many Congregations where there is no Minister at all; and where (by reason of the publike troubles) the people cannot either themselves enquire out and finde out one who may be a faithful Minister for them, or have any with safety sent unto them for such a solemn tryal as was before mentioned in the ordinary Rules, especially when there can be no Presbytery neer unto them, to whom they may addresse themselves, or which may come or send to them a fit man to be ordained in that Congregation, and for that people; And yet notwithstanding, it is requisite that Ministers be ordained for them, by some; who being set apart themselves for the work of the Ministry, have power to joyn in the setting apart of others, who are found fit and worthy. In those cases, untill by Gods blessing the aforesaid difficulties may be in some good measure removed; let some godly Minister in or about the City of London, be designed by publike authority; who being associated, may ordain Ministers for the City, and the Vicinity, keeping as neer to the ordinary Rules forementioned, as possible they may; And let this association be for no other intent or purpose, but only for the work of Ordination.

2. Let the like association be made by the same authority in great Towns, and the neighbouring Parishes in the several Counties, which are at the present quiet and undisturbed, to do the like for the parts adjacent.

3. Let such as are chosen or appointed for the service of the Armies or Navy be ordained, as aforesaid, by the associated Ministers of London, or some others in the countrey.

4. Let them do the like, when any man shall duly and lawfully be recommended to them for the Ministry of any Congregation, who cannot enjoy liberty to have a tryal of his parts and abilities, and desire the help of such Ministers so associated, for the better furnishing of them with such a Person, as by them shall be judged fit for the service of that Church and People.

The STATIONER to the Reader.

THe good acceptance, that the Confession of Faith, and Catechismes with Scriptures at large hath found, hath incouraged me to have them again revised, and to procure the Emphasis of the Scriptures to be printed in a different Character, that thou mayest see the reason why the texts are inserted.

As also by advice of some Ministers in the City, there is annexed that form of Church Government, with Scriptures at large, which we find at the end of the little volume, of the Confession, and Catechismes printed by the Company of Stationers.

FINIS.

[Page]

THose Ministers in the Citie (expressed at the foote of the fore-going page) that desired this form to be annexed, with Scriptures at large, for the good of Families, were some of those whose names are subscribed to the Epistle of the Presbyterian judgement.

VVHereas there is a report raised and fomented by divers persons, as if the Presbyterian Government was established only for three yeares and no more, which three yeares being expired, they suppose that Establishment is now out of date: and this as some are obliged to suggest by their interest, so others through their inadvertency receive: 'Twas thought fit to disabuse the Nation, to give them to understand, and they are hereby desired to take notice that the Presbyterian Government is that Church-Government which is established by the Law of the Land, as no man can either deny or doubt, who knows that though there was an Ordinance about 1645. for the setling of this Government only for three yeares, unlesse the Houses thought fit to order otherwise; yet it pleased the two Houses the Lords and Commons assembled in Parliament, Die Martis Aug. 29 1648. to order and ordaine this forme of Church-Government to be used in the Churches of England and Ireland, without limitation of time for it's duration; beginning thus;

Be it Ordered and Ordained by the Lords and Commons in Parliament▪ assembled, and by authority of the same; That all Parishes and places whatsoever within the Kingdom of England and Dominion of Wales (as well priviledged places and exempt Jurisdictions, as others) be brought under the Government of Congregationall, Classicall, Provinciall, and Nationall Assemblies, Provided that the Chapels or places in the Houses of the King and his Children, and the Chapels or places in the Houses of the Peers of this Realm, shall continue free for their exercise of divine duties to be performed according to the Directory, and not otherwise, &c.

Where you may read the full extent of the Presbyterian Government, as 'tis appointed to continue, with Rules about Ordination of Ministers, Examination, Censures, Suspension, and Excommunication, in their Classicall Assemblies; as you have it recited and reprinted at large, in the great new Book of Statutes (Chap. 118. of Ordinances, 1648. Pag. 165, 166, &c.) being called in the title page, A Collection of Acts and Ordinances of Generall use (for in his Preface he writes that he omits all such as were only Temporary and already Expired) as a Continuation of Poltons Collections or Statutes, by Henry Scobell Esquire, Clarke of the Parliament and Council, who writes that he publish'd these Acts and Ordinances in his Book by speciall Order of Parliament. Printed by the Printers to his Highnes this present yeare 1658.

[Page]

A TABLE Of the Chief Points spoken to in the Confession of Faith, and the Larger Catechism, wherein the substance of the shorter is comprehended. Con: signifies the Confession; and Cat: the Cathechism; the figures denote the Page.

ACtuall sin a fruit of Originall. Con. 24. Adoption, the Nature and Priviledges of it. Con. 45, 46. Cat. 40.
Adultery after Marriage a just cause of Divorce. Con. 95.
Aggravations of sins
from the Person offending. Cat. 112.
from the Party offended. Cat. 112, 113.
from the Quality of the offence. Cat. 114.
from the Circumstance of Time and Place. Cat. 117.
AMEN, the meaning of it. Cat. 155.
Angels how created. Cat. 8. not to be worshipped. Con. 78.
Apocrypha not of Divine inspiration nor authority. Con 3.
Ascension of Christ. Cat. 27.
Assurance attainable in this life. Con. 62. Cat. 44, 45. What this assurance is, and whereupon grounded. Con 62. 63. Beleevers may want it. Con. 63. Cat. 45. Beleevers may attain it without extraordinary Revelation. Con. 63, 64. It is the duty of all to endeavour after Assuranc [...]. Con. 64. The use and fruits of Assurance. ibid. Assurance inclines not men to loosnesse Con. 64. Assurance may be weakned, and lost. Con. 65. How it comes to be lost. ibid. It may be recovered again. ibid.
Atheism confuted▪ Cat. 1, 2.
Attributes of God. Con. 7, 8, 9.

B [...]ptisme what. Con. 104. Cat▪ 128, 129. To continue to the end of the world. ibid. Baptisme rightly administred by sprinkling. Con. 105. To whom Baptisme is to be administred. Con. 105. Cat. 129. A sin to neglect Baptism. Con. 106. Yet not absolutely necessary to salvation. ibid. Baptised persons may possibly be unregenerate. ibid. The efficacy of Baptisme. Con. 106. Baptism but once to be administred. ibid. How our Baptisme is to be improved by us. Cat. 130.
Beleevers; by what Righteousnesse they are justified. See [Justification] and [Faith] Beleevers cannot fall away wholly, nor finally. Cat. 44. Why they cannot. ibid. and Con. 59. How far they may fall away. Con. 61. They can never utterly despair. Con. 66. The condition of Beleevers in Judgement, and after Judgement. Cat. 50, 51.
Body of Christ how present in the Sacrament, Con. 110. Cat. 132.

Calling Effectuall what. Con. 37, 38. Cat. 34, 35. Effectuall Calling is of Gods free grace, not from any thing foreseen in man. Con. 39. The Elect enabled by the Spirit to answer this Call. Con. 29.
Catholick Church. See [Church]
Christ why so called. Cat. 20. Christs God▪ head proved. Cat. 5. Christ the Mediator between God and Man. Con. 29, 30. Cat. 17. Ordained to this Office by God from eternity. Con. 29, 30.
[Page] Christ's Incarnation. Con. 30. Cat. 17, 18. His two Natures how united. Con. 30, 31. How he was Anointed and Called to his Office. Con. 31. How he discharged his Office. Con. 32.
Why requisite Christ should be God. Cat. 16. Why Man. Cat. 17. Why God-man. Cat. 20.
How Christ exerciseth the Office of a Prophet. Cat. 21. How of a Priest, ib [...]d. How of a King. Con. 22.
Christ's Humiliation, and the degrees of it. See [Humiliation]
Christ's Exaltation, and the Degrees of it. See [Exallation]
How Christ makes Intercession. Cat. 28.
Christ how present in Sacramēt. Con. 110. Cat. 132 Christian liberty. See [Liberty]
The Church, the object of Gods speciall Providence. Con. 21, 22. The Church given to Christ from all eternity. Con. 30. Church visible what. Con. 97. Cat. 32. Church invisible what. Cat. 33.
The priviledges of the Church visible, Con. 97. Cat. 32, 33. The priviledges of the Church Invisible. Cat. 34.
Church Catholick what. Con. 96. It hath been sometimes more, sometimes lesse visible. Con. 98. The best Churches on earth subject to mixture and errour. ibid.
Church-Government committed by Christ to Church-Officers, distinct from the Civil Magistrate. Con. 111.
Church-Officers instrusted with the power of the Keyes, and what that power is. Con. 111, 112.
Church-Censures; their use, & necessity. Con. 112.
Civil-Magistrate. See [Magistrate]
The Ten Commandments a Rule of Righteousnesse. Con. 67. Rules for understanding the Ten Commandments. Cat. 56, 57, 58, 59. No man in this life able perfectly to keep them. Cat. 111.
The Duties of each Commandment. See [Commandment]
The Sins against each Commandment. See [Commandment]
Communication of Properties in Christ. Con. 34.
Communication of Saints, what. Con. 99, 100. Communion in Grace which Saints have with Christ. Cat. 36. Communion in Glory, which they have with Christ in this life. Cat. 46. Immediately after Death. Cat. 48. After Judgement. Cat. 51. This Communion makes them not equall with Christ. Con. 101. What Communion we ought to have one with another. Con. 100, 101. This Communion infringes not Propriety in goods or possession. Con. 101.
The Communion. See [Lords Supper]
Confession of sins to men, when necessary. Con. 53. Upon Confession the offending brother is to be received. ibid.
Liberty of Conscience. See [Liberty]
No enjoying of God but by way of Covenant. Con. 25.
Covenant of works, or First Covenant, what. Con. 26. Covenant of Grace, or Second Covenant, what. Con. 26, 27. Cat. 14. With whom made. Cat. 15. How the Grace of God is manifested in the Second Covenant. Cat. 55. How the Covenant of Grace was administred under the Law. Con. 27. Cat. 16. How under the Gospel. Con. 28. Cat. 16, 17.
Councils to be call'd. Con. 113. By whom. Con. 90. 113. What power Councils have. Con. 114. What submission due to their Determinations, and Decrees. ibid. Counc [...]ls not infallible since the Apostles time. Con. 114. Therefore Councils no Rule of Faith. ibid. How far only Councils may meddle with Civil affaires. Con. 114.
Corruption of Nature, what. Con. 22, 23. Cat. 12. How propagated. Con. 23. Cat. 12, 13.
Creation. Con. 15. Cat. 7. Creation of Man in particular. Con. 15, 16. Creation of Angels. Cat. 8.
The Curse and wrath of God, how it may be escaped, Cat. 119.

Damnation how to be escaped. Cat. 119.
Dead not to be prayed for. Con. 80.
Death appointed for all. Cat. 47. How Death is an advantage to Beleevers. Cat. 47. The state of Beleevers after Death, till the Resurrection. Cat. 48. Of Unbeleevers. Con. 115.
The Decalogue, the summe of the Morall Law. Cat. 56. Rules for understanding it. Cat. 56, 57, 58, 59.
The Decrees of God; the nature, extent, and properties of them, in generall. Con. 10, 11. Cat. 6. The Decree of p [...]ed [...]st [...]nation. Con 11, 12. The Decree of Election and Reprobation. Con. 12, 13. Cat. 6, 7. The Doctrine of the Decrees, how to be handled, and what use to be made of them. Con. 14.
True Beleevers can never utterly Despair. Con. 66 Dipping in Baptism not necessary. Con. 95.
[Page] Divorce, in what cases lawfull. Con. 95. Divorce, if lawfull, dissolves the bond of Marriage. ib.
Doubting may consist with an Interest in Christ, Cat. 134. And therefore should not hinder us from partaking of the Lords Supper. ibid.
Duties of the First Commandment. Cat. 61. &c. of the Second, Cat. 66. &c. Of the Third. Cat. 72. &c. Of the Fourth. Cat. 78. &c. Of the Fifth. Cat. 58. &c. Of the Sixth. Cat. 91. &c. Of the Seventh Cat. 95. &c. Of the Eighth. Cat. 99. &c. Of the Ninth. Cat. 103. &c. Of the Tenth. Cat. 109. &c.

Ecclesiasticall powers, if lawfull, not to be opposed on pretence of Christian Liberty. Con. 74.
Ecclesiasticall persons not exempted from obedience to the Civil Magistrate. Con. 92.
Effectuall Calling. See [Calling]
Election not out of Faith or Workes foreseen. Con. 12. The properties of it. ibid. Election to the meanes as well as to the end. Con. 13. What use to be made of the Doctrine of Election. Con. 14.
The Elect only can be saved. Con. 40.
Elect Infants how saved. Con. 39.
Eucharist. See [Lords Supper]
Exallation of Christ what. Cat. 25. In his Person. Cat. 26. In his Ascension. Cat. 27. In his sitting at the right hand of God. Cat. 28. In his coming to Judgement. Cat. 29.
Excommunication by whom to be managed, and to what end. Con. 112.

Faith the alone Instrument of Justification. Con. 42, 43. Cat. 37, 38, 39. How Faith justifies in the sight of God. Cat. 33. The nature of Justifying Faith. Con. 49. Cat. 38, 39. The chief Acts of it. Con. 49. How Faith is wrought, and how encreased. Con. 48. Faith may be without Assurance. Cat. 45, 46.
Fall of Man; the Nature and Effects of it. Con. 22, 23. Cat. 11. How all Mankind concern'd in the Fall. Con. 23. Cat. 11.
No Falling away totally and finally from true Grace. Cat. 44, 45. Con. 59. Why true Beleevers cannot so fall away, but must needs persevere. Con. 59, 60. How farre they may Fall away. Con. 61.
Family worship required by God. Con. 82▪
Fasting a part of Religious Worship. Con. 81.
Forgivenesse of sin, how to be prayed for. Cat. 151, 152.
Free-Will. See [Will]

Gods Nature and Attributes. Con. 7, 8, 9. Cat. 4. God but one in Essence. Cat. 4. Persons of the Godhead. Con. 10. Cat. 5. How it appeares there is a God. Cat. 1, 2. God alone to be worshipped, and that through Christ only. Con. 78. God to be worshipped in that way only that is prescribed in Scripture. Con. 77, 78
Good Works. See [Works]
The Gospel dissolves not the Morall Law, but establishes it. Con. 69. Without the Gospel no salvation. Cat. 30, 31.
No Falling from Grace. See [Falling]
Government of the Church. See [Church]

Why and how God Hardens sinners. Con. 20, 21.
How we are to Hear the Word preached. Cat. 125, 126.
The Holy Ghost's Godhead, and Equality with the Father proved. Cat. 5.
The Humiliation of Christ, what. Cat. 23. The Humiliation of Christ in his Conception, and Birth. Cat. 23. In his Life. Cat. 24. In his Death. Cat. 24, 25. After his Death. Cat. 25.
Hypostaticall Union. See [Personall Union]

Ignorant persons not to be admitted to the Lords Supper. Con. 110. Cat. 105.
Incarnation of Christ. See [Christ]
Incestuous Marriages. Con. 94, 95.
Infants of Beleevers to be Baptized. Con. 105. Cat. 129.
Day of Judgement for Angels and men. Cat. 49. Con. 117. The time concealed, and why. Cat. 50. Con. 118. The end of it. Con. 117. The manner of it as to the wicked. Cat. 50. Con. 117. As to the Righteous. Cat. 50, 51. Con. 117.
Judiciall Law, when it expired, and how farre any part of it binds now. Con. 68.
Justification, the nature of it. Con. 41. Cat. 37, 38. The Instrument of it. Con. 42. How it [Page] is an Act of Gods free grace. Con. 43. Cat. 37, 38. Justification not from Eternity. Con. 44. Not by Workes. Cat. 39. Justification the same under the Old Testament, as under the New. Con. 45. How Justification dist [...]rs from sanctification. Cat. 42.

The Kingly Office of Christ, how executed. Cat. 22.
What meant by the Coming of his Kingdome. Cat. 146, 147.

The Law Morall given to Adam as a Covenant of Works, with Ability to keep it. Con. 66. Cat. 52. The Nature of it. ibid. The Law continues still to be a perfect Rule of Righteousnesse. Con. 67. and to bind Beleevers as well as others. Con. 68, 69. Being not abolisht but establisht by the Gospel. Con. 69. No man able now to keep it perfectly. Cat. 11. How Beleevers are free'd from the Law. Con. 69. The Uses of the Law to all men. Cat. 53, 54. The Uses of it to the Unregenerate. Cat. 54. The severall excellent Uses of the Law to Beleevers. Con. 69, 70. Cat. 55. How sweetly concordant with the grace of the Gospel. Con. 71. Comprized in the Ten Commandments. Cat. 56. Rules for understanding the Morall Law. Cat. 56, 57, 58, 59. The Ceremoniall Law, what. Con. 67. Abrogated under the New Testament. Con. 68.
The Judiciall Law. See [Judiciall]
What Liberty Christ hath purchased for Beleevers. Con. 71, 72. Wherein it is enlarged under the New Testament. Con. 72, 73. The ends of Christian Liberty. Con. 74. How it is abused. Con. 74, 75. Not intended to destroy Ecclesiasticall or Civill powers, but to uphold them. Con. 74. This Liberty no plea for an Universall Toleration. Con. 74, 75.
Liberty of Conscience what it is, and what is repugnant to it. Con. 73.
No Liberty to sin. Con. 74.
Light of Nature not sufficient to make wise to salvation. Con. 1. Cat. 30, 31.
Lords Supper. See [Supper]
Lords Prayer. See [Prayer]

Magistracy an Ordinance of God. Con. 88, 89 Lawfull for Christians to be Civil Magistrates. Con. 89. The Civil Magistrate not to be resisted upon pretence of Christian Liberty. Con. 74. The Civil Magistrates power in Church-affaires stated. Con. 90. Magistrates authority not null'd by Infidelity, or difference in Religion. on. 91. 92. Ecclesiasticall persons not execmpted from obedience to the Civil Magistrate. Con. 92. The duty of people to their Magistrate.
Man how created at first. Con. 15, 16. Cat. 8. Gods providence towards Man in the state of Innocency. Cat. 10. Man's chiefe end. Cat. 1.
The Masse an abominable abuse of Christ's sacrifice. Con. 108.
Marriage, the ends of it. Con. 93. Lawfull for all sorts. ibid. Whom Christians should not Marry with. Con. 94. Marriage within the degrees of Consanguinity or Affinity unlawfull. Con. 94, 95. In what cases Marriage may be dissolved. Con. 95. Marriage between more then one Man, and one Woman at a time unlawfull. Con. 93.
The Meanes of salvation what. Cat. 119.
The Mediatour of the Covenant of Grace. Con. 29, 30. Cat. 17.
No Merit in good works. Con. 56.
The Ministry given by Christ to the visible Church. Con. 97.

The Name of God how to be used, Cat. 72, 73. How it is abused. Cat. 73. What meant by the Name of God. Cat. 145, 146.
New Testament or Covenant what. Con. 28.

Oathes part of Religious Worship. Con. 81, 84. The nature of an Oath. Con. 84. Oathes warrantable under the New Testament. Con. 85. A lawfull Oath not to be refused if imposed by lawfull Authority. Con. 85, 86. What to be considered before taking of an Oath. Con. 85 How an Oath is to be taken. Con: 86. An Oath binds to performance (whoever it be [Page] made to) if the performance be not sinfull. Con. 86.
Offices of Christ,
Propheticall Office. See [Propheticall]
Priestly Office. See [Priestly]
Kingly Office. See [Kingly]
Old Testament what. Con. 27, 28.
Ordinances given by Christ to the visible Church. Con. 97. How they are effectuall. Con. 97, 98.
Originall sin what▪ Con. 23. Cat. 12. The root of Actuall. Con. 24. Not wholly abolished in this life. Con. 24. The gu [...]lt of Originall sin. Con. 24, 25. How propagated. Con. 23. Cat. 12, 13.
Originall Text of Scripture the Authenticall. Con. 6.

Pardon of sin how to be prayed for. Cat. 151, 152.
Poedobaptisme lawfull. Con. 105. Cat. 129.
Perseverance of the Saints proved. Cat. 44. Con. 59. What it depends upon. Con. 59, 60. The certainty and infallibility of perseverance whence. Con. 60.
The Persons of the Godhead. Con. 10. Cat. 5.
The Coequality of the Divine Persons proved. Cat. 5, 6.
The Personall Union of the two Natures in Christ. Con. 30, 31. Why requisite. Cat. 20.
Polygamy unlawfull. Con 93.
The Pope hath no jurisdiction over Civil Magistrates in their Dominions, nor over their people. Con. 92. The Pope in no sense Head of the visible Church. Con 99. The Pope Antichrist. Con. 99.
Powers Ecclesiasticall and Civil, not to be opposed upon pretence of Christian Liberty Con. 74
Power of the Keyes what, and to whom committed. Con. 111, 112.
Prayer what, Cat. 140. To be made to God alone▪ ibid. Prayer and Thanksgiving the duty of all men. Con. 78. How Prayer is to be made. Con. 78. Cat. 143, 144. For what and for whom we are to Pray, and for whom nor. Con. 79, 80. Cat. 142, 143. Prayer now not more acceptable in one place then in another. Con. 81. What it is to Pray in the Name of Christ. Cat. 141. Why we are to Pray in the Name of Christ. ibid. How the Spirit helps in Prayer. Cat. 142. The Rule of Prayer. Cat. 144 The Lords Prayer how to be used. Cat. 144. The meaning of the First Petitiō. Cat. 145, &c.
of the Second. Cat. 146, &c.
of the Third. Cat. 148, &c.
of the Fourth. Cat. 149, &c.
of the Fifth. Cat. 151, &c.
of the Sixth. Cat. 152, &c.
of the Conclusion, Cat. 154, &c.
Preaching a part of Religious Worship. Con. 80. Who are to Preach the Word. Cat. 123, 124. How Ministers are to Preach the Word. Cat. 124, 125.
Predestination, the properties of it. Con. 12. Predestination unto life. Con. 12, 13. Predestination unto Wrath. Con. 13, 14. The Doctrine of Predestination how to be handled, and what use to be made of it. Con. 4.
Preparation to the Sabbath requisite. Cat. 82. To the Lords Supper. Cat. 133.
Priestly Office of Christ how ex [...]cuted. Cat 21.
Priviledges of the Church Visible. Cat. 32. Of the Church Invisible. Cat. 34.
Prophetical Office of Christ how executed. Cat. 21
Propriety of Goods not taken away by Communion of Saints. Con. 101.
Providence, the Nature and Extent of it, Con. 16, 17. Cat. 9. How Providence is exercised about Sin. Con. 18, 19, 20, 21. Gods Providence in especiall manner over his Church. Con. 21, 22. Gods Providence towards Angels. Cat. 9, 10. Gods Providence towards Man in Innocency. Cat. 10.
Publick Worship not to be neglected. Con. 82.
Punishments of sin in this world. Cat. 13, 14. In the world to come, Cat. 14.

Reading the Scripture a part of Religious Worship. Con. 80. Rules for Reading the Scriptures. Cat. 122, 123.
Redemption how wrought by Christ. Con. 33. The vertue of it and efficacy from the beginning of the world. Con. 34. Redemption how applyed, and to whom. Con. 34, 35. Cat. 30.
Repentance unto life what. Con. 50. Repentance not satisfactory for sin, nor cause of pardon. Con. 51. Yet no pardon without Repentance, nor Condemnation where it is. Con. 52. A particular Repentance required of all for particular sins. Con. 52. When Repentance is necessary to be testified to others. Con. 53.
Reprobation, the Nature of it. Con. 13, 14.
Resurrection of the Just and Unjust; the manner of it. Con. 116. Cat. 49.
Righteous. See [Beleevers]
[Page] Righteousnesse of Justification. See [Justification]
Righteousnesse of Sanctification. See [Sanctification]

Sabbath to be kept. Con. 83. And that the first day of the week. Cat. 78. Con. 83. What it is to keep the Sabbath aright. Con. 83, 84 Cat. 79. How the Sabbath is profaned. Cat. 80, 81.
Sacraments the nature & ends of them. Con. 112. Cat. 127. The parts of them. Cat. 128. They conferre not grace by any power in themselves. Con. 103. Upon what the efficacy of Sacraments depends. ibid. Sacraments to be dispensed only by the Ministers of the Word. Con. 103. The Sacraments of the Old and New Testament the same for substance. Con. 104. How the Sacraments are made effectuall to salvation. Cat. 126. The Sacrament of Baptisme, and the Lords Supper, wherein they agree▪ Cat. 138, 139. Wherein they differ. Cat. 139, 140.
Sacrament of Baptisme. See [Baptisme]
Sacrament of the Lords Supper. See [Supper]
Saints. See [B [...]leevers]
Saints not to be worshipped. Con. 78.
Salvation not to be attain'd by living up to the Light of Nature, nor by any other but the Christian Religion. Con. 40. Cat. 31. Salvation in Christ alone. Cat. 31. No larger then Election. Con 40. Cat. 35. What required of us in order to salvation. Cat. 119. The outward meanes of salvation. ibid.
Sanctification what. Con. 46, 47. Cat. 40, 41. Universall, but imperfect, in this life. Con. 47. The reason why Sanctification is imperfect here. Cat. 43. How Sanctification differs from Justification. Cat. 42.
Scandalous not to be admitted to the Lords Supper. Cat. 135.
Scriptures, why necessary Con 2▪ What Books to be owned for Scripture▪ ibid. Scripture the only Rule of Faith and Obedience. Con 3. Cat. 2. The only Rule of Worship, Con. 77, 78. Upon what Authority the Scriptures are to be received and obeyed. Con. 4. Scriptures how proved to be the Word of God. Con. 4. Cat. 2, 3. How we are fully assured of it. Con. 4. Cat. 3. Of the Scriptures Sufficiency, Perfection, and Perspicuity. Con. 5. What necessary to the saving understanding of the Scriptures. Con. 5. The Originall Text of Scripture the Authenticall. Con. 6. The Scripture ought to be Translated. Con. 6. Cat. 122. and read by all. Cat. 121. The infallible Rule of interpreting Scripture Con. 6. The Spirit speaking in Scripture the Supreme Judge of all Controversies in Religion. Con. 7. Scripture how to be read. Cat. 122, 123.
Sin what. Cat 12. The guilt of it. Con. 24. Sin how the object of Gods providence. Con. 18, 19 20, 21. God not the Authour, nor Approver of Sin. Con. 19. Why God suffers his children to fall into Sin. Con. 20. Originall Sin▪ See [Originall] Actuall Sin. See [Actuall] Sin how punisht in this world. Cat. 13, 14. How in the world to come. Cat. 14. Sins when to be confessed to men. Con. 53. Sin not pardoned without Repentance. Con. 52. The greatest Sin cannot damn men if they truly Repent. ib All Sins not equally hainous. Cat. 111. The demerit of every Sin. Cat. 118.
Sins against the First Cōmandment. Cat. 62▪ &c.
against the Second. Cat. 68, &c.
against the Third. Cat. 73, &c.
against the Fourth Cat. 80, &c.
against the Fifth. Cat. 87, 89, 90.
against the Sixth. Cat 94, &c.
against the Seventh. Cat 97, &c.
against the Eighth. Cat. 101, &c.
against the Ninth. Cat. 105, &c.
against the Tenth. Cat. 110, &c.
Aggravations of Sin under severall Heads. See [Aggravat [...]ons.]
Singing of Psalms a part of Religious Worship. Con. 80.
Soule's state after Death. Con. 115.
The Spirit's illumination necessary to the saving understanding of the Scripture. Con. 5. The Spirit speaking in the Scripture the supreme Judge of Controversies. Con. 7.
Supererogation impossible. Con. 56.
Superiours how to be honoured. Cat. 85, 86. How to carry themselves toward their Inferiours. Cat. 87, 88.
Supper of the Lord; the Institution, Nature and ends of it. Con. 107. Cat. 131. Christ not offered up to his Father in the Supper▪ nor any reall sacrifice for sin made. Con. 107. The Ministers duty in administring it. Con. 108. Not to be received alone. ibid. To be received in both kinds. ibid. The Elements in the Supper not to be adored. ibid. What relation the Elements in the Supper have to Christ. Con. 109. How Christ is present in the Supper. Con. 110. Cat. 132. How beleevers feed upon Christ in the Supper. Con. 109, 110. Cat. [Page] 132. Ignorant and scandalous not to be admitted to the Supper. Con. 110. Cat. 135. What preparation required before receiving the Lord's Supper. Cat. 133. What duties requi [...]ed in time of receiving. Cat. 136, 137. What duties after receiving. Cat. 137, 138.
The Agreement and difference between the Lords Supper and Baptisme. Cat. 138, 139, 140.
Suspension from the Lords Supper. Con. 112. Swearing. See [Oath]
Synods may be called by the Civil Magistrate. Con. 90. 113. In what cases Ministers may meet in a Synod without the Call of the Civil Magistrate. Con. 113. What power belongs to Synods and Councils. Con. 114 What submission due to their Decrees, and Determinations. ibid. Synods not infallible since the Apostles dayes. Con. 114. How far Synods may meddle in State-affaires. ibid.

Temptation how to be prayd against. Cat. 152, 153, 154
Testament Old and New. Con. 27, 28.
Thanksgiving the duty of every man. Con. 78.
What Toleration Christian Liberty is no friend to. Con. 74, 75.
Transubstantiation an absurd fiction. Con. 109.
Of the Trinity. Con. 10. Cat. 5.
The Coëquality of the Persons in Trinity proved. Cat. 5, 6.

Vocation. See [Calling]
Vowes a part of Religious Worship. Con. 81. A Vow, what, how, and to whom to be made. Con. 87. What Vowes are unlawfull. Con. 88.
Union of the two Natures in Christ. Con. 31, 32.
Union of the Elect with Christ, what. Cat. 34.
Unregenerate men's best works sinfull. Con. 57, 58.

War may be waged by Christians under the New Testament. Con. 89.
Wicked men's condition in Judgement, and after Judgement. Cat. 50.
The Will of God how to be done, and submitted. to. Cat. 149.
The Will of Man renewed in Effectuall Calling. Cat. 35.
Free Will, what. Con. 35. Free Will to good in the state of Innocency. Con. 36. Wholly lost by the Fall. ibid. Restored in part by Regeneration. Con. 36, 37. Perfectly and immutably in the state of Glory only. Con. 37.
Word of God, what. Cat. 2. The Word how made effectuall to salvation. Cat. 119, 120. To be read by all. Cat. 121, 122. How to be read. Cat. 122, 123. How to be preached. Cat. 124, 125. How to be heard. Cat. 125, 126.
Works not the cause of Justification. Con. 41 Cat. 39.
What are Good Works, and what not. Con. 53, 54. The excellent uses and ends of Good Works. ibid. Ability to do Good Works is wholly from Gods Spirit. Con. 55. The actuall influence of the Spirit required to the performing of every Good Work. Con. 55. Yet this no plea at all for negligence. ibid. Good Works neither merit nor satisfie, and why. Con. 56. Yet they are accepted by God in Christ, and rewarded. Con. 57. The best Works of the Unregenerate sinfull, and why. Con. 57, 58. Yet the neglect of the more sinfull. ibid.
Worship to be given to God alone. Con. 78. And that through Christ. ibid. The Worship that is acceptable to God is instituted by himself, and not left to the Devices of men. Con. 77, 78. The parts of Religious Worship. Con. 80, 81. Religions Worship not tyed now to any place. Con. 81. God to be Worshipped in private and in publick. Con. 81, 82.

FINIS.

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1658

The Preface.

Of the Church.

Of the Officers of the Church.

Pastors.

Teacher or Doctor.

Other Church-governours.

Deacons.

Of Particular Congregations.

Of the Officers of a particular Congregation.

Of the Ordinances in a particular Congregation.

Of Church-Government, and the several sorts of Assemblies for the same.

Of the Power in common of all these Assemblies.

Of Congregational Assemblies, that is, The meeting of the Ruling Officers of a par­ticular Congregation for the Government thereof.

Of Classical Assemblies.

Of Synodical Assemblies.

Of Ordination of Ministers.

Touching the Doctrine of Ordination.

Touching the Power of Ordination.

The Directory for Ordination of Ministers

The Rules for Examination are these.

Of Congregational Assemblies, that is, The meeting of the Ruling Officers of a particular Congregation for the Government thereof.