THE CONFESSION OF FA …

THE CONFESSION OF FAITH AND CATECHISMS, Agreed upon by the Assembly of Divines at Westminster: TOGETHER With their Humble ADVICE Concerning Church Government And Ordination of Ministers.

LONDON, Printed for Robert Bostock, at the Sign of the Kings Head in Pauls Church-yard.

THE Confession of Faith, Agreed upon by the As­sembly of Divines at Westminster, To be a part of the Unifor­mity in Religion between the Churches of Christ in the three King­doms.

CHAP. I. Of the holy Scripture.

ALthough the light of Na­ture, and the works of Creation and Providence, do so farre manifest the Goodnesse, Wisdom, and Power of God, as to leave men unexcusable Rom. 2 14. 15. Rom. 1. 19, 20. Psal. 19. 1, 2▪ 3. Rom. 1. 32. with chap. 2, 1.; [Page 2] yet are they sufficient to give that knowledge of God and of his Will, which is necessary unto salvation 1 Cor. 1 21. 1 Cor. 2 13, 14.. Therefore it pleased the Lord, at sun­dry times, and in divers manners, to reveal himself, and to declare that his Will unto his Church Heb. 1. 1; and afterwards for the better preserving and propa­gating of the Truth, and for the more sure establishment and comfort of the Church against the corruption of the flesh, and the malice of Satan and of the world; to commit the same wholly un­to writing Pro. 22 19. 20, 21 Luke 1. 3. 4 Rom. 15. 4 Mat. 4. 4, 7 10. Isai. 8 19, [...]0.: which maketh the Holy Scripture to be most necessary 2 Tim. 3 15. 2 Pet. 1 19.: those former wayes of Gods revealing his Will unto his people, being now ceased Heb. 1. [...]. 2..

II. Vnder the name of Holy Scri­pture, or the Word of God written; are now contained all the Books of the Old and New Testament, which are these:

Of the Old Testament.
  • GEnesis
  • Exodus
  • Leviticus
  • Numbers
  • DeuteronomiE
  • Joshua
  • Judges
  • Ruth
  • I. Samuel
  • II. Samuel
  • I. Kings
  • II. Kings
  • I. Chronicles
  • II. Chronicles
  • [Page 3]Ezra
  • Nehemiah
  • Esther
  • Iob
  • Psalmes
  • Proverbs
  • Ecclesiastes
  • The Song of Songs
  • Isaiah
  • Ieremiah
  • Lamentations
  • Ezekiel
  • Daniel
  • Hosea
  • Ioel
  • Amos
  • Obadiah
  • Ionah
  • Micah
  • Nahum
  • Habbakkuk
  • Zephaniah
  • Haggai
  • Zechariah
  • Malachi
Of the New Testament.
  • The Gospel according to
    • MAtthew
    • Mark
    • Luke
    • Iohn
  • The Acts of the A­postles.
  • Pauls Epistles to the Romanes
    • Corinthians
    • Corinthians I.
    • Corinthians II.
    • Galatians
    • Ephesians
    • Philippians
    • Colossians
    • Thessalonians I.
    • Thessalonians II.
    • To Timothy I.
    • To Timothy II.
    • To Titus
    • To Philemon
  • The Epistle to the Hebrews.
  • The Epistle of Iames
  • The first and second Epistles of Peter.
  • The first, second, and third Epist of Iohn
  • The Epistle of Iude
  • The Revelat. of Iohn.

All which are given by inspiration of God, to be the Rule of faith and life Luk. 16. 29. 31. Eph. 2. 20. Rev 22. 18: 19. 2 Tim. 3. 16..

III. The Books commonly called Apocrypha, not being of Divine inspira­tion, are no part of the Cannon of the Scripture; and therefore are of no au­thority in the Church of God, nor to be any otherwise approved, or made use of, than other humane Writings Luk. 24. 27, 44. Rom. 3. 2. [...] Pet▪ 1. 21..

IV. The authority of the Holy Scri­pture, for which it ought to be beleeved and obeyed, dependeth not upon the Te­stimonie of any man, or Church; but wholly upon God (who is Truth it self) the Author thereof: and therefore it is to be receive,d because it is the Word of God 2 Pet. 1. 19, 21. 2 Tim. 3. 16 1 Iohn 5. 9 1 Thes. 2. 13.

V. Wee may be moved and induced by the Testimonie of the Church to an high and reverend esteem of the holy Scripture 1 Tim. 3. 15.. And the heavenlinesse of the Matter, the efficacie of the Doctrine, the majesty of the Stile, the consent of all the Parts, the Scope of the whole (which is, to give all glory to God,) the full discovery it makes of the onely way of mans salvation, the many other incomparable Excellencies, and the in­tire perfection thereof, are Arguments whereby it doth abundantly evidence it self to be the Word of God; yet not­withstanding, our full perswasion and [Page 5] assurance of the infallible truth, and Divine authority thereof, is from the inward work of the Holy Spirit, bearing witnesse by and with the Word, in our hearts 1 Iohn 2. 20, 27. Iohn 16. 13 14. 1 Cor. 2. 10, 11. 12. Isa. 59. 21..

VI. The whole Councell of GOD concerning all things necessary for his own Glory, mans salvation, Faith, and Life, is either expressely set down in Scripture, or by good and necessary consequence may be deduced from Scri­pture: unto wh [...]ch nothing at any time is to be added, whether by new revelati­ons of the Spirit, or traditions of men 2 Tim. 3 15. 16, 17. Gal 1. 8. 9. 2 Thes 3. 2.. Neverthelesse we acknowledge the in­ward illumination of the Spirit of God to be necessary for the saving understan­ding of such things as are revealed in the Word Ioh. 6. 4 [...]: 1 Cor. 2, 9, 10, 12.: and that there are some cir­cumstances concerning the Worship of God, and Government of the Church, common to humane actions and Socie­ties, which are to be ordered by the light of Nature and Christian Prudence, ac­cording to the generall Rules of the Word, which are alwayes to be ob­served 1 Cor. 11. 13, 14. 1 Cor. 14, 26. 40..

VII. All things in Scripture are not alike plain in themselves, nor alike clear unto all 2 Pet. 3. 16.: yet those things which are necessary, to be known, believed, & observed for salvation, are so clearly pro­pounded [Page 6] and opened in some place of Scripture or other, that not only the Learned, but the unlearned, in a due use of the ordinary meanes, may attain unto a sufficient understanding of them Psal. 119 105. 130..

VIII. The Old Testament in He­brew (which was the Native Lan­guage of the people of God of old, (and the New Testament in Greek, (which at the time of writing of it was most generally known to the Nations) being immediatly inspired by God, and by his singular care and providence kept pure in all Ages, are therefore Authenti­call Mat. 5. 18; so as, in all Controversies of Re­ligion, the Church is finally to appeal unto them Isa 8. 20 Act. 15. 15 Iohn 5. 39 46.. But, because these Origi­nall Tongues are not known to all the people of God, who have right unto, and interest in the Scriptures, and are com­manded, in the fear of GOD, to read and search them Iohn 5. 39., therefore they are to be translated into the vulgar Language of every Nation unto which they come 1 Cor. 14▪ 6, 9, 11, 12, 24, 27, 28., that the Word of GOD dwel­ling plentifully in all, they may worship him in an acceptable manner Col. 3. 16; and, through patience and comfort of the Scriptures, may have hope Rom. 15. 4.

IX. The infallible Rule of Interpreta­tion of Scripture is the Scripture it self: and therefore, when there is a Question [Page 7] about the true and full sense of any Scri­pture (which is not manifold, but one) it must be searched and known by other places that speak more clearly 2 Pet. 1. 20, 21. Acts 15. 15, 16..

X. The Supream Iudge by which all Controversies of Religion are to be de­termined and all Decrees of Councels, Opinions of Ancient Writers, Doctrines of men, and private spirits, are to be ex­amined; and, in whose Sentence we are to rest: can be no other but the Holy Spirit speaking in the Scripture Mat. 22. 29. 31. Ephe. 2. 20. with Acts 28. 23..

CHAP. II. Of God, and of the holy Trinity.

THere is but one onely Deut. 6. 4. 1 Cor. 8. 4. 6, living, and true God 1 Thes. 1. 9 Ier. 10. 10.: who is infinite in Be­ing and Perfection Iob 11. 7, 8, 9. Iob 26. 14., a most pure Spi­rit Iohn 4. [...]4, invisible 1 Tim. 1. 17, without body, parts Deut. 4. 15 16. Ioh. 4. 24. with Luke 24. 39, or passions Act. 14. 11, 15., immutable Iam. 1. 17. Mal. 3. 6., immense 1 King. 8. 27. Ier. 23, 23, 24., eternall Psal. 90. 2. 1 Tim. 1. 17., incomprehen­sible Psal. 14 [...]. [...]., Almighty Gen. 17. 1. Rev. 4. 8., most wise Rom. 16. 27., most Holy Isa. 6. 3. Rev. 4. 8., most free Psal. 115. [...] ▪, most absolute Exod. 3. 14▪, working all things according to the Counsel of his own immutable and mostrighteous will Eph. 1. 11. for his own glory Pro. 16. 14. Rom. 11, 36.. [Page 8] most loving, 1 Iohn 4. 8. 6. gracious, mercifull, long-suffering, abundant in goodnesse and truth, forgiving iniquity, transgres­sion, and sin Exod. 34. 6, 7., the rewarder of them that diligently seek him Heb. 11. 6.; and withall, most just and terrible in his judge­ments Nehem. 9. 32. 33., hating all sin Psa. 5. 5, 6., and who will by no meanes clear the guilty Nah 1. 2, 3. Exod. 34 7..

II. God hath all life Iohn. 5. 26., glory Acts 7. 2., good­nesse Psal. 119. 68., blessednesse 1 Tim. 6. 15. Rom. 9. 5., in, and of him­self; and is alone in, and unto himself all-sufficient, not standing in need of any creatures which he hath made Act. 17. 24, 25., nor deriving any Glory from them Iob 22. 2, 3, but only manifesting his own glory, in, by, unto, and upon them: He is the alone Fountain of all Being, of whom, through whom, and to whom are all things Rom. 11 36; and, hath most Soveraigne Dominion over them, to do by them, for them, or upon them whatsoever himself pleaseth Rev. 4. 11. 1 Tim. 6. 15. Dan. 4. 25, 31.. In his sight all things are open and ma­nifest Heb. 4. 13., his knowledge is infinite, in­fallible, and independent upon the crea­ture Rom. 11. 33, 34. Psal. 147. 5., so as nothing is to him contin­gent, or uncertain Act. 15. 18. Ezek. 11. 5.. He is most holy in all his counsels, in all his works, and in all his commands Psal. 145. 17. Rom. 7. 12▪. To him is due from Angels and men, and every other crea­ture, whatsoever worship, service, or obedience he is pleased to require of them Rev. 5. 1 [...], 13, 14..

III. In the Vnity of the God-head there be three Persons, of one substance, power, and eternity; God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Ghost 1 Ioh. 5. 7. Mat. 3. 16, 17 Mat 28. 19. 2 Cor. 13 14. The Father is of none, neither begotten, nor proceeding: The son is eternally begotten of the Father Ioh. 1. 14, 18.: The Holy Ghost eternally proceeding from the Father and the Son Ioh▪ 1. 15, 26. Gal. 4. 6..

CHAP. III. Of Gods eternall Decree.

GOD from all eternity did, by the most wise and holy Counsell of his own Will, freely, and unchangeably or­dain whatsoever comes to passe Eph. 1. 11 Rom. 11. 33. Heb. 6. 17. Rom 9 15, 18.: yet so, as thereby neither is God the Author of sin Iam. 1. 13. 17. 1 Ioh 1. 5, nor is violence offered to the will of the Creatures, nor is the Liberty or contingency of second Causes taken away, but rather established Acts 2. 23 Mat. 17, 12. Act. 4. 27, 28 Iob 19. 11. Pro. 16. 33..

II. Although God knowes whatsoever may, or can come to passe upon all supposed conditions Act. 15. 18. 1 Sam 23. 11 12. Mat. 11. 21, 23., yet hath he not decreed any thing because he foresaw it as future, or as that which would come to passe upon such conditions Rom 9. 11, 13, 16. 18..

III. By the decree of God, for the ma­nifestation of his Glory, some men and Angels 1 Tim. 5. 21. Mat. 25. 41. are predestinated unto everlast­ing [Page 10] life, and others fore-ordained to everlasting death Rom. 9. 22 23. Eph 1 5, 6 Prov. 16. 4.

IV. These Angels and men thus pre­destinated and fore-ordained, are parti­cularly, and unchangeably, designed, and their number is so certain, and definite, that it cannot be either increased, or diminished 2 Tim. 3 19. Ioh. 13 18..

V. Those of man-kinde that are pre­destinated unto Life, God, before the foundation of the world was laid accord­ing to his eternall and immutable pur­pose, and the secret counsell▪ and good pleasure of his Will, hath chosen, in Christ, unto everlasting glory Eph. 1. 4, 9 11. Rom. 8. 30 2 Tim. 1. 9 1 Thes. 5▪ 9, out of his meer free grace and love, without any foresight of Faith, or good works, or perseverance in either of them, or any other thing in the creature, as conditi­ons, or causes moving him thereunto Rom. 9. 11 13 16. Eph. 1. 4, 9., & all to the praise of his glorious grace Eph. 1. 6. 12.

VI. As God hath appointed the Elect unto glory, so hath he, by the eternall and most free purpose of his Will, fore-ordained all the meanes thereunto 1 Pet. 1. 2 Eph 1. 4, 5▪ Eph. [...]. 13. Wherefore they who are elected, being fallen in Adam, are redeemed by Christ 1 Thes. 5 9. 10. Tit. 2. 14, are effectually called unto faith in Christ, by his Spirit working in due season, are justified, adopted, sanctified Rom. 8. 30 Eph. 1. 5 2 Thes. 2. 13, and kept by his power through faith un­to salvation 1 Pet. 1. 5. Neither are any other re­deemed [Page 11] by Christ, effectually called, justified, adopted, sanctified and saved, but the Elect onely Iohn 17. 9 Rom. 8. 28 to the end Iohn 6. 64 65. Iohn 10 26. Iohn 8. 47. 1 Ioh. 2 19..

VII. The rest of man-kinde God was pleased, according to the unsearch­able counsell of his own Will, whereby he extendeth, or with-holdeth mercy, as he pleaseth, for the glory of his Sove­raign Power over his creatures, to passe by: and to Ordain them to dishonour and wrath, for their sin, to the praise of his glorious justice Mat. 11. 25▪ 26. Rom. 9. 17. 18, 21, 22. 2 Tim. 2. 19. 20 Iude 5 4. 1 Pet. 2. 8 Rom. 9. 20. Rom. 11. 33 Deut. 29. 29.

VIII. The doctrine of this high Mystery of Predestination is to be handled with speciall prudence and care s, that men attending the will of God revealed in his Word, and yeelding obedience thereunto, may, from the cer­tainty of their effectuall Vocation, be assured of their eternall Election t. So shall this Doctrine afford matter of praise, reverence, and admiration of God 2 Pet. 1. 10 [...] Eph. 1. 6 Rom. 11. 33, and of humility, diligence, and abundant consolation to all that sincere­ly obey the Gospel Rom. 11 5, 6, 20. 2 Pet. 1. 10 Rom. 8. 33 Luke 10. 2 [...].

CHAP. IV. Of Creation.

IT pleased God the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost Heb. 1. 2 Iohn 1. 2 3 Gen. 1. 2 Iob 26. 1 [...] Iob 33. 4., for the manifestati­on of the glory of his eternall power, wisdom, and goodnesse Rom. 1. 20 Ier. 10. 12 Psal. 104. 24 Psal. 33. 5▪ 6, in the begin­ning, to create, or make of nothing, the World, and all things therein, whether visible or invisible, in the space of six dayes, and all very good Gen. 1. ch Heb. 11. 13. Col. 1. 16. Acts 17. 24.

II. After God had made all other Creatures, he created Man, male and female Gen. 1. [...]7, with reasonable and immor­tall souls Gen. 27 with Eccle. 12. 7. and Luk. 23. 43 and Mat. 10 28., indued with knowledge, righteousnesse, and true holinesse, after his own Image Gen. 1. 26 Col. 3. 10 Eph. 4. 24, having the Law of God written in their hearts Rom. 2. 14 15., and power to fulfill it Eccl. 7. 29: and yet, under a possibility of transgressing, being left to the liberty of their own will, which was subject un­to change Gen. [...]. 6. Eccles. 7. 29: Beside this Law written in their hearts, they received a command, not to eat of the tree of the Knowledge of good and evil which whiles they kept, they were happy in their Communion with God Gen. 2. 27 Gen. 3. 8. 9, 10. 11, 23., and had Dominion over the creatures Gen. 1. 26, 28..

CHAP. V. Of Providence.

GOD the great Creatour of all things, doth uphold Heb. 1. 3, direct, dispose, and govern all creatures, acti­ons, and things Dan. 4. 34 35. Psal. 135. 6. Acts 17 25, 26, 28 Iob 38, 39, 40, 41. chapters., from the greatest even to the least Mat. 10 29, 30, 31., by his most wise and holy Providence Prov. 15. 3 Psal. 104. 24, according to his infallible fore-knowledge Acts 15. 18 Psal. 94. 8, 9, 10, 11., and the free, and immutable counsell of his own Will Eph. 1. 1 [...] Ps. 33. 10, 11, to the praise of the glory of His Wisdom, Power, Iustice, Goodnesse, and Mercy Isa. 63. 14 Eph. 3. 10. Rom. 9. 17 Gen. 45. 7 Psal. 145. 7.

II. Although in relation to the fore-knowledge and decree of God, the first Cause, all things come to passe im­mutably, and infallibly Acts 2. 23: yet, by the same Providence he ordereth them to fall our, according to the nature of se­cond causes, either necessarily, freely, or contingently Gen. 8. 22 Ier. 31. 35 Exod. 21. 13 with Deut. 19. 5. 1 Kings 22 28, 54. Isai. 10. 6, 7.

III. God, in his ordinary Providence maketh use of means Acts 27. 3 [...] ▪ 44. Isai. 55. 11, 12. Hos. 2. 21, 22., yet is free to work without Hos. 1. 7 Mat. 4. 4 Iob [...]4. 10., above Rom. 4. 19, 20, 21, and against them at his pleasure 2 Kings 6. 6. Dan. 3. 27.

IV. The Almighty power, unsearch­able wisdom, and infinite goodnesse of God so farre manifest themselves in his Providence, that it extendeth it self even to the first Fall, and all other sinnes of [Page 14] Angels and Men Rom. 11. 32 33, 34 2 Sam. 24. 1 with 1 Chr. 21. 1. 1 King. 22. 22, 23 1 Chr. 10. 4, 13, 14. 1 Sa. 16. 10. Acts 2. 23. Acts 4. 27, 28., and that not by a bare permission Act. 13. 16, but such as hath joyn­ed with it a most wise and powerfull bounding Psa 76. 10 2 Kings 19. 28., and otherwise ordering, and governing of them, in a manifold dis­pensation, to his own holy ends Gen. 50. 20. Isa. 10. 6. 7, 12.: yet so, as the sinfulnesse thereof proceedeth on­ly from the creature, and not from God, who being most holy and righteous, nei­ther is, nor can be the Author or Ap­prover of sin Iam. 1. 13, 14, 17. 1 Ioh. 2. 16 Psal. 50 21.

V. The most wise, righteous, and gra­cious GOD doth oftentimes leave for a season his own children to manifold temptations, and the corruption of their own hearts, to chastise them for their former sinnes, or to discover unto them the hidden strength of corruption, and deceitfulnesse of their hearts, that they may be humbled 2 Chr. 32▪ 25, 36, 31 2 Sam. 24. 1.: and, to raise them to a more close and constant dependance for their support upon himself, and to make them more watchfull against all furure occasions of sin, and for sundry other just and holy ends 2 Cor. 12 7. 8, 9 Psal. 73. throughout Psal. 77. 1, 10, 12 Mar. 14. 66 to the end, with Iohn 21 15; 16, 17.

VI. As for those wicked and ungod­ly men, whom GOD, as a righteous Iudge, for former sinnes doth blinde and harden Rom 1. 24 26, 28 Rom. 1 [...], 7, 8, from them he not onely withholdeth his Grace, whereby they might have been inlightned in their understandings, and wrought upon in [Page 15] their hearts Deut. 29. 4: but sometimes also with­draweth the gifts which they had Mat. 15. 12 Mat. 15. 29, and exposeth them to such objections as their corruption makes ocasions of sin Deut. 2. 50 2 Kings 8. 12. 131: and with all, gives them over to their own lusts, the temptations of the world, and the power of Satan Ps. 81. 11, 12 2 Thes. 2: 10 11, 12: whereby it comes to passe that they harden themselves, even under those meanes which GOD useth for the softning of others Exod. 7: 3, with Exod. 8. 15, 32. 2 Cor. 1. 15, 16. Isa. 8. 14 2 Pet. 2. 7, 8 Isa. 6. 9, 10. with Acts 28. 26, 27..

VII. As the providence of GOD doth in generall, reach to all Creatures; so after a most speciall manner, it taketh care of his Church, and disposeth all c 1 Tim. 4. 10 Amos 9 8 9. Rom. 8. 28. Isa. 43. 3, 4, 5, 14. things to the good thereof.

CHAP. VI. Of the Fall of Man, of Sin, and of the Punishment thereof.

OVr first Parents being seduced by the subtilty and Temptation of Satan, sinned in eating the forbidden fruit Gen. 3. 13. 2 Cor. 11. 3. This their sin, God was pleased, according to his wise and holy counsell to p [...]rmit, having purposed to order it to his own glory Rom. 1 [...]. 32..

II. By this sinne they fell from their originall righteousnesse and communi­on with God Gen. 3. 6, 7 8. Eccles. 7. 29. Rom. 3. 23., and so became dead in sin Gen. 2. 17 Eph 2. 1,, and wholly defiled in all the fa­culties [Page 16] and parts of soul and body Tit. 1. 15, Gen. 6. 5. Ier. 17. 9. Rom. 3, 10, 10 19..

III. They being the root of all man­kind, the guilt of this sin was imputed Gen. 1. 27. 28, and Gen 2. 16, 17. and Acts 17 13. with Rom. 5. 12, 15, 16, 17. 18, 19. and 1 Cor. 15 21, 22, 45, and the same death in sin and corrupted nature, conveyed to all their posterity descending from them by ordinary generation Psal. 51. 5 Gen. 5. 3. Iob 14. 4. Iob 15. 14..

IV. From this originall corruption, whereby we are utterly indisposed, dis­abled, and made opposite to all good Rom. 5. 6. Rom 8. 7. Rom. 7. 18. Col. 1. 21:, and wholly inclined to all evil Gen 6. 5. Gen, 8 21. Rom 3. 10, 11, 12., do pro­ceed all actuall transgressions Iam. 1. 14, 15. Eph. 2. 2, 3. Mat. 15. 19.

V. This corruption of nature during this life, doth remaine in those that are regenerated 1 Ioh, 1. 8, 10. Rom, 7. 14, 17, 18, 23. Iam. 3: 2 Prov. 20. 9. Eccles. 7. 20: and, although it be, through Christ, pardoned, and mortified, yet both it self, and all the motions there­of are truly and properly sin Rom 7. 5, 7, 8, 25. Gal. 5. 17..

VI. Every sin, both Originall and Actuall, being a transgression of the righteous Law of God, and contrary thereunto Iohn 3. 4, doth, in its own nature, bring guilt upon the sinner Rom. 2. 15. Rom. 3. 9, 19., whereby he is bound over to the wrath of God Ephes. 2. 3., and curse of the Law Gal. 3. 10., and so made subject to death Rom. 6. 23., with all miseries spiri­tuall Ephes. 4. 18., temporall Rom. 8. 20. Iam. 3. 39., and eternall Mat. 25. 41. 2 Thes. 1. 9..

CHAP. VII. Of Gods Covenant with Man.

THe distance between God and the Creature is so great, that although reasonable Creatures do owe obedience unto him as their Creator, yet they could never have any fruition of him as their Blessednesse and Re­ward, but by some voluntary conde­scension on Gods part, which he hath been pleased to expresse by way of Co­venant Isaiah 40. 13, 14, 15, 16, 17. Iob 9. 32, 33 1 Sam. 2. 25 Ps 113. 5, 6 Psal. 100. 2, 3 Iob 22 2, 3. Iob 35. 7, 8 Luke 17. 10 Act 17. 24, 25..

II. The first Covenant made with Man, was a Covenant of Works Gal. 3. 12, wher­in Life was promised to Adam, and in him to his posterity Rom. 10. 5 Rom 5. 12 to 20., upon condition of perfect and personall obedience Gen. 2. 17 Gal. 3. 10..

III. Man, by his Fall having made himself uncapable of Life by that Co­venant, the Lord was pleased to make a Second Gal. 3 21▪ Rom. 3. 20, 21. Gen 3. 15. Isa. 42. 6, commonly called the Cove­nant of Grace: Wherein he freely of­fereth unto sinners Life and Salvation by Iesus Christ, requiting of them Faith in Him that they may be saved Mark. 16 15, 16. Iohn 3. 16. Rom. 10. 6, 9. Gal. 3. 11, and promising to give unto all those that are ordained unto Life, his holy Spirit, to make them willing, and able to be­lieve Ezek. 36. 26, 27. Iohn 6. 44, 45..

IV. This Covenant of Grace is fre­quently [Page 18] set forth in the Scripture by the name of a Testament, in reference to the death of Iesus Christ the Testator, and to the everlasting Inheritance, with all things belonging to it, therein bequea­thed Heb. 9. 15 16, 17. Heb. 7. 22. Luke 22. 20. 1 Cor. 11. 25.

V. This Covenant was differently administred in the time of the Law, and in the time of the Gospel 2 Cor. 3. 6, 7, 8, 9.: Vnder the Law, it was administred by Promises, Prophesies, Sacrifices, Circumcision, the Paschal Lamb, and other Types and Or­dinances delivered to the people of the Iewes, all fore-signifying Christ to come Heb. 8. 9 10 chap­ters. Rom. 4. 11 Col. 21. 1, 12 1 Cor. 5. 7, which were for that time, suf­ficient and efficacious, through the ope­ration of the Spirit, to instruct and build up the Elect in Faith in the Promised Messiah 1 Cor. 10 1. 2, 3, 4. Heb. 11. 13 Iohn 8. 56, by whom they had full remis­sion of sins, and eternall Salvation: and is called, the Old Testament Gal. 3. 7, 8, 9, 14..

VI. Vnder the Gospel, when Christ the substance Col. 2. 17, was exhibited, the Or­dinances in which this Covenant is di­spensed, are the Preaching of the Word, and the Administration of the Sacra­ments of Baptism, and the Lords Sup­per Mat. 28 19, 30. 1 Cor. 14 23, 24, 25. Which, though fewer in number, and administred with more simplicity, and lesse outward glory, yet, in them, it is held forth in more fulnesse, evi­dence, and spirituall efficacy Heb. 12 22. to 28 Ier. 31. 33, 34., to all na­tions, [Page 19] both Iews and Gentiles; Mat. 28. 19 Eph. 2. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19; and is called the New Testament Luk. 22. 20. There are not therefore Two Covenants of Grace, differing in substance, but one and the same, under various dispensations Gal. 3. 4, 16. Rom. 3 21, 22, 23, 30 Psal. 32. 1 with Rom. 4. 3, 6, 17, 23, 24. Heb. 13. 8. Act. 15. 11..

CHAP. VIII. Of Christ the Mediatour.

IT pleased God, in his eternall pur­pose, to choose and ordain the Lord Iesus, His only begotten Son, to be the Mediator between God and Man Isa. 42. 1 1 Pet. 1. 19, 20. Iohn 3. 16. 1 Tim. 2. 5; the Prophet Acts 3. 22, Priest Heb. 5, 5, 6, and King Psal. 2. 6 Luke 1. 33, the Head, and Saviour of his Church Eph. 5. 23, the Heir of all things Heb. 1. 2, and Iudge of the World Acts 17. 31: Vnto whom He did from all eternity give a People, to be his Seed Iohn 17. 6 Psal▪ 22. 30 Isa. 53. 10, and to be by him in time Redeemed, Cal­led, Iustified, Sanctified, and Glorified 1 Tim. 2. 6 Isa. 55. 4, 5 1 Cor. 1. 30.

II. The Son of God, the second Per­son in the Trinity, being very and eter­nall God, of one Substance, and equall with the Father; did, when the fulnesse of time was come, take upon Him mans nature Iohn 1, 1, 14. 1 Iohn 5. 20. Phil. 2. 6. Gal. 4. 4, with all the Essentiall proper­ties, and common infirmities thereof, yet, without sin Heb. 1. 14, 16, 17. Heb. 4. 15: being conceived by the Power of the Holy Ghost, in the [Page 20] womb of the Virgin Mary, of her sub­stance Luke 1. 27, 31, 35. Gal. 4. 4.. So that, two whole, perfect, and distinct Natures, the God-head and the Man-hood, were inseparably joyned together in one Person, without Con­version, Composition, or Confusion Luke 1. 35 Col. 2. 9 Rom. 9. 5 1 Pet. 3. 18 1 Tim. 3. 16. Which person, is very God, and very Man, yet one Christ, the only Mediator between God and Man Rom. 1. 3, 4 1 Tim. 2. 5.

III. The Lord Iesus, in his humane nature thus united to the divine, was sanctified and anointed with the holy Spirit, above measure Psal. 45. 7 Iohn 3. 34, having in him all the treasures of Wisdom and know­ledge Col. 2. 3: in whom, it pleased the Father, that all fulnesse should dwell Col. 1. 19: to the end, that being holy, harmless, undefiled, and full of grace and truth Heb. 7. 16 Iohn 1. 14, he might be thorowly furnished to execute the Office of a Mediator, and surety Acts 10. [...]8 Heb. 12. 24 Heb. 7. 22. Which Of­fice he took not unto himself, but was thereunto called by his Father Heb. 5. 4, 5, who put all power and judgement into his hand, and gave him commandment to execute the same Ioh. 5. 22, 27. Mat. 28 18 Act. 2. 36.

IV. This Office, the Lord Iesus did most willingly undertake Psal. 40. 7, 8. with Heb. 10. 5. to 11 Iohn 10. 18 Phil. 2. 8: which that he might discharge, he was made under the Law Gal. 4. 4., and did perfectly fulfill it Mat. 3. 15 Mat. 5. 17, indured most grievous torments imme­diatly in his Soul Mat. 26. 37 38. Luke 22 44. Mat. 27 46. Mat. 26. 27 chapters., and most painfull sufferings in his body b: was crucified [Page 21] and died Phil. 28.: was buried, and remained under the power of death; yet saw no corruption Act. 2. 23, 24, 27. Act. 13. 37. Rom. 6. 9.. On the third day he arose from the dead 1 Cor. 15. 3, 4., with the same body in which he suffered Iohn 20. 25, 27., with which also he ascended into Heaven, and there sitteth at the right hand of his Father Mark. 16 19., making intercession Rom. 8. 34 Heb. 9. 24. Heb. 7. 25., and shall return to judge men, and Angels, at the end of the World Rom. 14. 9, 10. Acts 1. 11. Acts 10. 42. Mat. 13. 40, 41, 42. Iude v. 6. 2 Pet. 2. 4.

V. The Lord Iesus, by his perfect obedience, and sacrifice of himself, which he, through the eternall Spirit, once of­fered up unto God, hath fully satisfied the justice of his Father Rom. 5. Heb. 9. 14. 16. Heb. 10. 1, 4. Eph. 5. 2 Rom. 3. 25, 26., and purchased not only reconciliation, but an everlast­ing inheritance in the Kingdome of Heaven, for all those whom the Father hath given unto him Dan 9. [...]4, 26. Col. 1. 19, 20. Eph, 1. 11, 14. Iohn 17. 2. Heb. 9. 12, 15..

VI. Although the work of Redem­ption was not actually wrought by Christ till after his Incarnation; yet the vertue, efficacy, and benefits thereof were com­municated unto the Elect in all ages successively from the beginning of the world, in, and by those promises, types, and sacrifices, wherein he was revealed, and signified to be the seed of the Wo­man which should bruise the Serpents head; and the Lamb slaine from the beginning of the world: being yester­day, and to day the same, and for ever Gal, 14, 5. Gen. 3. 15. Rev. 13. 8. Heb. 13. 8..

VII. Christ, in the work of Media­tion, acteth according to both Natures, by each Nature doing that which is proper to it self Heb. 9. 14. 1 Pet. [...]. 18.: yet, by reason of the unity of the Person, that which is pro­per to one Nature, is sometimes in Scri­pture attributed to the Person denomi­nated by the other Nature Acts 20. 25 Ioh 3. 1 [...] Ioh. 3. 16..

VIII. To all those for whom Christ hath purchased Redemption, he doth certainly, and estectually apply, and communicate the same Ioh. 6. 3 [...], 39. Ioh. [...]0. 15, 16., making in­tercession for them 1 Ioh. 2, 1. 2 Rom 8. 34, and revealing un­to them, in, and by the Word, the myste­ries of salvation Ioh. 15 13 15. Eph. 1. 7, 8, 9. Iohn 17. 6., effectually perswad­ing them by his Spirit, to beleeve, and obey, and governing their hearts by his Word and Spirit Iohn 14. 16. Heb. 12 2. 2 Cor. 4. 13. Rom. 8. 9. 14. Rom. 15. 18, 19. Ioh. 17. 17., overcoming all their enemies by his Almighty Power and Wisdom, in such manner, and wayes, as are most consonant to his wonderfull and unsearchable dispensation Psal. 110. 1 1 Cor. 15. 25, 26. Mal. 4. 2, 3. Col. 2. 15..

CHAP. IX. Of Free-will.

GOD hath indued the Will of man with that naturall liberty, that is neither forced, nor by any absolute ne­cessity of nature determined to do good or ev [...] Mat. 17. 12. Iam. 1. 14. Deut. 30. 19.

II. Man, in his state of Innocency, had freedom, and power, to will, and to do that which was good, and well-pleasing to God Eccles. 7 29. Gen. 1 26.; but yet, mutably, so that hee might fall from it Gen. 2. 16, 17. Gen. 3. 6.

III. Man by his fall in [...]o a state of sin, hath wholly lost all ability of Will to any spirituall good accompanying salva­tion Rom. 5. 6 Rom. 8. 7 Iohn 15. 5: so as, a naturall man, being al­together averse from that good Rom. 3. [...]0 12., and dead in sin Eph. 2. 1. 5 Col. 2. 13, is not able, by his own strength, to convert himself, or to pre­pare himself thereunto Ioh. 6. 44, 65. Eph 2 [...] ▪ 2. 3. 4, 5. 1 Cor. 8. 14 Titus 3. 3, 4, 5..

IV. When God converts a sinner, and tanslates him into the state of grace; he freeth him from his naturall bondage under sin Col. 1. 13 Ioh. 8. 34, 36; and by his grace alone, in­ables him freely to will, and to do that which is spiritually good Phil. 2. 13 Rom. 6. 18, 22.; yet so, as that by reason of his remaining corru­ption, he doth not perfectly, nor only, will that which is good, but doth also will that which is evill Gal. 5. 17 Rom. 7. 15, 19, 21,.

V. The will of man is made perfectly, and immutably free to good alone, in the state of Glory onely Eph. 4. 13 Heb. 12. 23 [...]1 Iohn 3. 2 Iude v. 24.

CHAP. X. Of Effectuall Calling.

ALL those whom God hath pre­destinated unto life, and those only, he is pleased in his appointed and accepted time, effectually to call Rom. 8. 30 Rom. 11. 7 Eph. 1. 10, 11, by his Word and Spirit 2 Thes. 2 13, 14. 2 Cor 33. 6, out of that state of sin and death, in which they are by nature, to grace and salvation by Iesus Christ Rom 8. 3 Eph 2. 1. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. 2 Tim. 1 9 10; enlightning their mindes, spiritually and savingly to understand the things of God Acts 26. 18 1 Cor. 10. 12 Eph. 1. 17, 18; taking away their heart of stone, and giving unto them an heart of flesh Ezek. 36. 27: renewing their wills, and by his Almighty power determining them to that which is good Ezek. 11. 19 Phil. 2. 13 Deut. 30. 6 Ezek. 36. 27, and effe­ctually drawing them to Iesus Christ Eph 1. 19 Ioh. 6. 44, 45: yet so, as they come most freely, being made willing by his grace Cant. 1. 4 Psal. 110. 3 Iohn 6. 37 Rom. 6. 16, 17, 18..

II. This effectuall Call is of Gods free, and speciall grace alone, not from any thing at all foreseen in man 2 Tim. 1. 9 Tit. 3. 4 5. Eph. 2. 4, 5, 8 9. Rom. 9. 11, who is altogether passive therein, untill be­ing quickened and renewed by the holy Spirit 1 Cor. 2. 14 Rom. 8. 7 Eph. 2. 5, he is thereby inabled to answer this call, and to imbrace the grace offer­ed, and conveyed in it Ioh. 6. 37 Ezek 36. 27 Rom. 8. 9 Ioh 5. 25.

III. Elect infants dying in infancy, are regenerated, and saved by Christ, through the Spirit Luke 18 15. 16. and Act. 2. 38, 39 and Iohn 3 3. 5. and 1 Iohn 5. 12 compared,; who worketh [Page 25] when, and where, and how he pleaseth Iohn 3. 8: So also are all other elect persons who are uncapable of being outwardly cal­led by the Ministery of the Word 1 Iohn 5 12. Acts 4 12..

IV. Others, not elected, although they may be called by the Ministery of the Word Mat. 22. 14, and may have some com­mon operations of the Spirit Mat. 7. 22 Mat. 13. 20 21. Heb. 6 4. 5., yet they never truly come unto Christ, and therefore cannot be saved Ioh. 6. 64, 65, 66. Ioh. 8. 24: much lesse can men, not professing the Christian Religion, be saved in any other way whatsoever, be they never so diligent to frame their lives according to the light of Nature, and the Law of that Religion they doe professe Acts 4. 12 Iohn 14. 6 Ephes. 2. 12 Iohn 4. 22 Iohn 17. 3. And, to assert and maintain, that they may, is very perni­cious, and to be detested 2 Ioh. v. 9 10, 11 1 Cor. 16. [...]. Gal. 1. 6, 7, 8..

CHAP. XI. Of Justification.

THose whom God effectually cal­leth, he also freely justifieth Rom. 8. 30 Rom. 3. 24: not, by infusing righteousnesse into them, but by pardoning their sinnes, and by accounting and accepting their persons as righteous; not, for any thing wrought in them, or done by them, but for Christs sake alone; nor by imputing faith it self, the act of believing, or any [Page 26] other Evangelicall obedience, to them, as their righteousnesse; but by imputing the obedience and satisfaction of Christ unto them Rom. 4. 5, 6, 7. 8 2 Cor. 5. 19 21. Rom. 3 22, 24, 25 27, 28 Titus 3. 5, 7 Eph. 1. 7. Ier. 23, 6. 1 Cor. 1. 30, 31 Rom. 5. 17 18, 19, they receiving, and rest­ing on him and his righteousnesse by faith, which faith, they have, not of themselves, it is the gift of God Acts 10 44. Gal. 2 16. Phil. 3. 9 Act. 13. 38, 39 Eph. 2. 7, 8.

II. Faith, thus receiving and resting on Christ and his righteousnesse, is the alone instrument of Iustification Iohn 1. 12 Rom 3. 28 Rom. 5. 1; yet is it not alone in the person justified, but is ever accompanied with all other saving graces, and is no dead faith, but worketh by Love Iam. 2. 17 22, 26 Gal. 5. 6.

III. Christ by his obedience, and death, did fully discharge the debt of all those that are thus justified, and did make a proper, reall, and full satisfaction to his Fathers Iustice in their behalf [...]om. 5. 8, 9, 10, 19 1 Tim. 2. 5, 6 Heb. 10. 10, 14. Dan. 9 24. 26. Isa. 53. 4, 5, 6. 10 11, 12. Yet, in as much as he was given by the Father, for them Rom. 8. 32; and, his obedience and satisfaction accepted in their stead 2 Cor. 5. 21 Mat. 3. 17 Ephes. 5. 2; and, both, freely, not for any thing in them; their justification is only of free grace Rom. 3. 24 Eph. 1. 7, that, both the exact justice, and rich grace of God, might be glorified in the Iustification of sinners Rom. 3. 26 Ephes. 2. 7.

IV. God did, from all eternity, de­cree to justifie all the elect Gal. 3. 8 1 Pet. 1. 2 19, 20 Rom. 8. 30, and Christ did, in the fulnesse of time, die for their sins, and rise again for their justificati­on Gal. 4. 4 1 Tim. 2. 6 Rom. 4. 25: neverthelesse, they are not justi­fied, [Page 27] untill the holy Spirit doth in due time, actually apply Christ unto them Col. 1. 21, 22. Gal. 2 16. Tit. 3. 4, 5, 6, 7..

V. God doth continue to forgive the sins of those that are justified Mat. 6. 12 1 Iohn 1. 7. 9 1 Ioh. 2. 1 2: and, al­though they can never fall from the state of justification; yet, they may by their sins, fall under Gods fatherly dis­pleasure, Iuke 22 32. Iohn 10 28. Heb 10 14. and not have the l [...]ght of his countenance restored unto them, untill they humble themselves, confesse their sins, beg pardon, and renew their faith and repentance Psal. 89. 31 32. 33 Psal. 51. 7, 8 9, 10, 11, 12 Psal. 32. 5 Mat. 26. 7 [...] 1 Cor. 11. 30 32. Luk. 1. 20.

VI. The justification of Beleevers under the Old Testament, was, in all these respects, one and the same with the justification of Believers under the New Testament Gal. 3. 9 13, 14. Rom. 4. 22, 23, 24 Heb. 13. 8.

CHAP. XII. Of Adoption.

ALl those that are justified, God vouchsafeth, in, and for his only Sonne Iesus Christ, to make par­takers of the grace of Adoption Eph. 1. 5: by which th [...]y are taken into the number, and enjoy the liberties and priviledges of the children of God Gal. 4. 4 [...] ▪ Rom. 8. 17 Iohn 1. 12, have his Name put upon them Ier. 14 9 2 Cor. [...]. 18 Rev. 3. 12, receive the spirit of Adoption Rom. 8. 15, have accesse to the Throne of Grace with boldnesse Eph. 3. 12 Rom. 5. 2, are enabled [Page 28] to cry Abba, Father Gal 4. 6, are pitied Psa. 103. 13, pro­tected Prov. 14. 16 Mat 6. 30 32 1 Pet. 5. 7 provided for i, and chastened, by him, as by a Father Heb. 12. 6: yet never cast off Lam. 3. 31, but sealed to the day of redempti­on Eph. 4. 20, and inherit the promises as heirs of everlasting salvation 1 Pet. 1, 3, 4. Heb. 1. 14. n Heb. 6. 12

CHAP. XIII. Of Sanctification.

THey who are effectually called, and Regenerated, having a new heart, and a new spirit created in them; are further sanctified really and per­sonally, through the vertue of Christs death and resurrection 1 Cor. 6. 11 Acts 20. 32 Phil. 3. 1 [...]. Rom. 6. 5, 6, by his Word, and Spirit dwelling in them Iohn 17 17 Eph. 5. 26 2 Thes. 2. 13: the do­mininion of the whole body of sinne is destroyed Rom. 6. 6 14., and the severall lusts there­of are more and more weakened and mortified Gal. 5. 24 Rom. 8. 13: and they, more and more quickned and strengthened in all saving graces Col 1. 11 Ephes 3. 16, 17, 18, 19, to the practice of true holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord 2 Cor. 7. 1 Heb. 12. 14.

II. This Sanctification is through­out, in the whole man 1 Thes. 5 2 [...].; yet imperfect in this life, there abideth still some rem­nants of corruption in every part 1 Ioh 1. 10 Rom. 7. 18 23. Phil. 5. 12: whence ariseth a continuall, and irre­concileable warre; the flesh lusting [Page 29] against the spirit, and the spirit against the flesh Gal. 5, 17 1 Pet. 2. 11.

III. In which warre, although the remaining corruption, for a time, may much prevail Rom. 7. 23; yet through the conti­nuall supply of strength from the sancti­fying Spirit of Christ, the regenerate partdoth overcome Rom. 6 14 1 Iohn 5. 4 Eph. 4. 15, 16: and so, the Saints grow in grace 2 Pet. 3 18 2 Cor 3 18, perfecting holinesse in the fear of God 2 Cor. 7. 1.

CHAP. XIV. Of Saving Faith.

THe grace of Faith, whereby the elect are inabled to believe to the saving of their soules Heb. 10. 39, is the Work of the Spirit of Christ in their hearts 2 Cor. 4. 13 Eph 1. 1 [...], 18. 19 Eph. 2. 8; and is ordinarily wrought by the Ministry of the Word Rom. 1 [...] 14. 17: by which also, and by the administration of the Sacraments, and Prayer, it is increased and streng [...]hened 1 Pet. 2. 2 Acts 20. 32 Rom. 4. 11 Luk. 17. 5 Rom 1. 16, 17..

II. By this Fa [...]th, a Christian belie­veth to be true, whatsover is revealed in the Word, for the authority of God him­self speaking therein Iohn 4. 42 1 Thes. 2. 13 1 Iohn 5. 10 Acts 24. 14; and, acting dif­ferently upon that which each particu­lar passage thereof containeth; yeelding obedience to the Commands Rom 16. 26; trem­bling at the threatnings Isa 60. 2, and imbra­cing [Page 30] the promises of God for this life, and that which is to come Heb▪ 11. 13 1 Tim. 4. 8. But the principall acts of saving faith, are, Ac­cepting, Receiving, and Resting upon Christ alone for Iustification, Sancti­fication, and Eternall life, by vertue of the Covenant of Grace Iohn 1. 10 Acts 16. 31 Gal. 2. 29 Acts 15. [...]1.

III. This faith is different in de­grees, weak, or strong Heb. 5. 13 14. Rom. 4 19, 20 Mat. 6 30 Mat. 8. 10; may be often and many wayes assayled, and weakned, but gets the victory Luk. 22. 31, 32. Eph. 6. 16 1 Ioh. 5. 4, 5; growing up in many to the attainment of a full assu­rance through Christ Heb. 6. 11, 12. Heb. 10 22. Col. 2. 2, who is both the Author and finisher of our faith Heb. 12. 2.

CHAP. XV. Of Repentance unto life.

REpentance unto life, is an evan­gel [...]call grace Zec. 12. 10 Acts 11. 18, the Doctrine whereof is to bee preached by every Minister of the Gospel, as well as that of faith in Christ Luke 24 47. Mark. 1 15. Acts 20 21..

II. By it, a sinner, out of the sight and sense, not only of the danger, but also of the filthinesse and odiousnesse of his sins, as contrary to the holy nature, and righ­teous Law of God; and, upon the ap­prehension of his mercy in Christ to such as are penitent, so grieves for, and hates his sins, as to turn from them all [Page 31] unto God Eze. 18. 30, 31. Eze. 36. 31 Isa. 30. 22 Psal. 51. 4 Ier 31. 18. 19 Ioel 2. 12, 13 Amos 5. 15 Psal. 119. 128 2 Cor. 7. 11, purposing and endeavour­ [...]ng to walk with him in all the wayes of his Commandments Psal. 119 6, 59, 106 Luk. 1. 6 2 Kin 23. 25.

III. Although Repentance be not to be rested in, as any satisfaction for sin, or any cause of the pardon thereof Eze. 36, 31, 32. Eze. 16, 61 62, 63, which is the act of Gods free grace in Christ Hos. 14. 2 4 Rom. 3. 24 Ephes. 1. 7 yet is it of such necessity to all sinners, that none may expect pardon with­out it Luk. 13 [...], 5. Acts 17▪ 30, 31 Rom. 5. 21.

IV. As there is no sin so small, but it deserves damnation Rom. 6. 23 Mat. 12. 36; so there is no sin so great, that it can bring damnation upon those who truly repent Isa. 5 [...]. 7 Rom. 8, 1 Isa: 1. 16, [...].

V. Men ought not to content them­selves with a generall repentance, but it is every mans duty to endeavour to re­pent of his particular sins, particular­ly Psal. 19, 13 Luke 19. 8 1 Tim. 1, 13 15.

VI. As every man is bound to make private confession of his sins to God, praying for the pardon thereof Psal. 51. 4, 5, 7, 9, 14 Psal. 32. 5, 6; upon which, and the forsaking of them, he shall finde mercy Pro. 28. 13 1 Iohn 1. 9: so he that scanda­lizeth his Brother, or the Church of Christ, ought to be willing by a private or publique confession, and sorrow for his sinne, to declare his repentance to those that are offended Iam. 5. 16 Luk 17. 3. 4 Iosh. 7. 19 Psal. 51 throughout., who are thereupon to be reconciled to him, and in love to receive him [...] Cor. 2. [...].

CHAP. XVI. Of Good Works.

GOod Works are only such as God hath commanded in his holy Word Micah. 6. 8 Rom. 12 2 Heb 13. 21, and not such as, without the warrant thereof, are devised by men, out of blinde zeal, or upon any pretence of good intention Mat. 15. 9 Isa. 29. 13 1 Pet. 1. 18 Rom. 10 2 Iohn 16. 2 1 Sam. 15. 21 22, 23.

II. These good works, done in obe­dience to Gods Commandements, are the fruits and evidences of a true and lively faith Iam. 2. 18 22.: and, by them believers ma­nifest their thankfulnesse Psal. 1 16 12, 13 1 Pet. 2. 9, strengthen their assurance 1 Iohn 2 3. 5 2 Pet. 1 5, 6, 7 8, 9. 10, edifie their Brethren 2 Cor. 9. 2 Mat. 5, 16, adorn the profession of the Gospel Tit. 2. 5, 9 10, 11▪ 12. 2 Tim 6. 1, stop the mouths of the adversaries 1 Pet. 2. 15, and glorifie God 1 Pet. 2. 12 Phil. 1. 11 Iohn 15. 8, whose workmanship they are, created in Christ Iesus thereunto Eph. 2. 10; that, having their fruit unto holinesse, they may have the end, eternall life Rom 6. 22.

III. Their ability to do good works, is not at all of themselves, but wholly from the Spirit of Christ Iohn 15 4. 5 Ezek. 36. 26▪ 27. And that they may be inabled thereunto, besides the graces they have already received, there is required an actuall influence of the same holy Spirit, to work in them to will and to do, of his good pleasure Phil 2. 15. Phil. 4 13 2 Cor. 3. 5: yet are they not hereupon to grow neg­ligent, as if they were not bound to per­form [Page 33] any duty, unlesse, upon a speciall motion of the Spirit; but, they ought to be diligent in stirring up the grace of God that is in them Phil. 2. 12 Heb. 6. 11, 12 2 Pet. 1 3, 5, 10, 11. Isa. 64. 7 2 Tim. 1 6 Acts 26. 6, 7. Iude v. 20. 21.

IV. They, who in their obedience, attain to the greatest heigth, which is possible in this life, are so far from being able to supererogate, and to doe more then God requires, as that they fall short of much which in duty they are bound to doe Luk 17. 10 Neh. 13. 22 Iob 9 2, 3 Gal. 5. 17.

V. We cannot, by our best Works merit pardon of sin, or eternal life at the hand of God, by reason of the great dis­proportion that is between them & the glory to come; and, the infinit distance that is between us and God, whom, by them, we can neither profit, nor satisfie for the debt of our former sins Rom. 3. 20 Rom. 4. 2. 4, 6 Eph 2, 8 9 Tit. 3. 5, 6, 7 Rom. 8, 18 Psal. 16 2 Iob 22, 2▪3 Iob 35. 7, 8, but when we have done all we can, we have done but our duty, and are unprofitable servants Luk. 17. 10; and, because, as they are good, they proceed from his Spirit Gal. 5. 22, 23; and as they are wrought by us, they are defiled, and mixed with so much weaknesse and imperfection, that they cannot endure the severity of Gods judgement Isa. 64. 6. Gal. 5. 17 Rom 7. 15▪ 18. Psal. 143, 2. Psal. 130. 3.

VI. Yet notwithstanding the Persons of Believers being accepted through Christ their good works also are accepted in him Eph. 1. 6 1 Pet 2. 5 Exod 28. 38 Gen. 4. 4 with Heb. 14., not as though they were in this life wholly unblamable and unreprove­able [Page 34] in GODS sight Iob 9. 20 Psal 143. 2; but that, hee looking upon them in his Son, is pleased to accept, and reward that which is sin­cere, although accompanied with many weaknesses and imperfections Heb. 13. 20 21. 2 Cor. 18 12. Heb. 16 10. Mat. 25 21, 23.

VII. Works done by unregenerate men, although, for the matter of them, they may bee things which God com­mands, and of good use, both to them­selves, and others 2 Kings 20. 30, 31 1 Kings 21 27. 29 Phil. 1. 15, 16, 18: yet, because they proceed not from an heart purified by faith Gen. 4. 5 with Heb. 11 4. Heb. 11. 6; nor are done in a right manner, according to the Word 1 Cor. 13 3 Isa. 1. 12; nor, to a right end, the glory of God Mat. 6. 2, 5, 16.; they are there­fore sinfull, and cannot please God, or make a man meet to receive grace from God Hag. 2. 14 Tit. 1. 15. Amos 5. 21, 22. Hos 1. 4. Rom. 9. 16. Titus 3. 5.. And yet their neglect of them is more sinful, and displeasing unto God Psal. 14. 4. Psal. 36. Iob 21. 14. 15. Mat. 25. 41, 42, 43, 45. Mat. 23. 23..

CHAP. XVII. Of the Perseverance of the Saints.

THey whom God hath accepted in his Beloved, effectually called, and sanctified by his Spirit, can neither totally, nor finally, fell away from the stare of Grace: but shall certainly per­severe therein to the end, and be eter­nally saved Phil. 1. 6 2 Pet. 1. 10 Iohn 10 28, 29. 1 Iohn 3. 9. 1 Pet. 1. 5. 9.

II. This perseverance of the Saints depends not upon their own free-will, but upon the immutability of the De­cree of Election flowing from the free and unchangable love of God the Fa­ther 2 Tim. 2. 28, 19, Ier. 31. 3.; upon the efficacy of the merit, and intercession of Iesus Christ Heb. 10. 10, 14. Heb. 13, 20, 21. Heb. 9. 12, 13, 14, 15 Rom. 8. 33, to the end. Ioh. 17. 11, 24. Lu. 22. 32 Heb. 7. 25.; the abiding of the Spirit, and of the seed of God within them Iohn 14. 16, 17. 1 Ioh. 2. 27. 1 Iohn 3. 9.; and the nature of the Covenant of Grace Ier. 32. 40.: from all which ariseth also the certainty, and infallibili­ty thereof Ioh. 10. 28 2 Thes 3. 3. 1 Ioh. 2. 19..

III Neverthelesse, they may through the temptations of Satan, and of the World, the prevalency of corruption re­maining in them, and the neglect of the means of their preservation, fall into grievous sins Mat. 26. 70, 72, 74.: and, for a time, conti­nue therin Psal. 51, title and verse 14. 1 Isa. 64. 1, 7, 9. 2 Sam. 11. 27: whereby they incur Gods displeasure i, and grieve his holy Spirit Eph. 4. 30., come to be deprived of some mea­sure of their graces and comforts Psal 51. 8, 10. 12. Rev. 2. 4. Cant 5. 23, 4. 6., have their hearts hardened Isa. 36. 17. Mark 6. 52. Mark 16. 14., and their con­sciences wounded Isal. 32 3. 4. Psal. 51. 8., hurt, and scanda­lize others 2 Sam▪ 12. 14., and bring temporall judg­ments upon themselves Psal. 89. 31 32. 1 Cor 11. 31..

CHAP. XVIII. Of the assurance of Grace and Salvation.

ALthough hypoctites and other un­regenerate men may vainly de­ceive themselves with false hopes, and carnall presumptions of being in the fa­vour of God, and estate of Salvation Iob 8 13 14. Mich. 3 11 Deut. 29 19. Iohn 8 41.: which hope of theirs shall perish Mat. 7. 22, 23.: yet such as truly beleeve in the Lord Iesus, and love him in sincerity, endeavouring to walk in all good conscience before him, may, in this life, be certainly assu­red that they are in the state of grace 1 Ioh. 2. 3 1 Ioh. 3. 14, 18, 19, 22, 24 1 Ioh 5. 13., and may rejoyce in the hope of the glo­ry of God, which hope shall never make them ashamed Rom. 5. 2, 5.

II. This certainty is not a bare con­jecturall and probable perswasion, grounded upon a fallible hope Heb. 6. 11, 19.: but, an infallible assurance of faith, founded, upon the divine truth of the promises of salvation Heb. 6. 17, 18., the inward evidence of those graces unto which these promises are made 2 Pet. 1. 4, 5, 10, 11. 1 Ioh. 2. 3. 1 Ioh 3. 14 2 Cor. 1. 12, the testimony of the Spirit of Adoption witnessing with our spirits that we are the children of God Rom. 8. 15, 16: which Spirit is the earnest of our inheritance, whereby we are sealed to the day of re­demption Eph. 3. 13, 14. Eph. 4. 30. 2. Cor. 1. 21. 22..

III. This infallible assurance doth [Page 37] not so belong to the essence of faith, but that a true beleever may wait long, and conflict with many difficulties before he be partaker of it 1 Iohn 5. 13. Isa. 50. 10 Mark 9. 24. Psal 8 [...]. throughout Psal 77. to verse 12.: yet, being inabled by the Spirit to know the things which are freely given him of God, he may, without extraordinary revelation, in the right use of ordinary meanes, attain thereunto 1 Cor 2. 12 1 Ioh. 4. 13 He 6. 11, 12 Eph. 3. 17, 18, 19.. And therefore it is the duty of every one to give all diligence to make his calling and election sure 2 Pet. 1. 10.: that thereby his heart may be inlarged in peace & joy in the holy Ghost, in love and thankfulnes to God, and in strength and cheerfulnes in the duties of obedience, the pro­per fruits of this assurance Rom. 5. 1, 1, 2, 5. Rom. 14. 7. Ro. 15. 3. Eph. 1. 3. 4 Psal. 4. 6, 7 Psal. 119. 32: so far is it, from inclining men to loosnesse 1 Ioh. 2. 1, 2 Rom. 6. 1, 2. Tit. 2. 11, 12, 14. 2 Cor. 7. 1. Rom. 8. 1, 12 1 Iohn 3. 2. 3 Psal. 1 30. 4. 1 Iohn 1. 6, 7..

IV. True beleevers may have the as­surance of their salvation divers wayes shaken, diminished, and intermitted, as, by negligence in preserving of it, by fal­ling into some speciall sin, which wound­eth the conscience, and grieveth the spi­rit: by, some sudden, or vehement tem­ptation, by Gods withdrawing the light of his countenance, and suffering even such as fear him to walk in darknesse, and to have no light Can. 5. 2, 3, 6 Ps. 5. 1 6, 12, 14. Eph. 4. 30, 31. Psa. [...], 1, to 10. Mat. 26. 69, 70, 71, 72. Psal. 31. 22. Psal, 88. throughout Esa. 5. 10.: yet are they ne­ver utterly destitute of that seed of God, and life of faith, that love of Christ and the brethren, that sincerity of heart, and conscience of duty, out of which, by the [Page 38] operation of the Spirit, this assurance may, in due time, be revived 1 Ioh. 3. 9 Luke 22. 32 Iob 13. 15 Psaim 73. 15 Psal. 51. 8, 12: and by the which, in the mean time, they are supported from utter despair Mich. [...]. 7, 8, 9. Ier. 52. 40. Isa. 54. 7, 8, 9, 10. Psalme 22. 1. Psalme 88. throughout..

CHAP. XIX. Of the Law of God.

GOD gave to Adam a Law, as a Covenant of Works, by which he bound him, and all his posterity, to personall, entire, exact, and perpetuall obedience: promised life upon the ful­filling, and threatened death upon the breach of it: and indued him with power and ability to keep it Gen. 1. 26, 27 with Gen. 2. 17▪ Rom 2 14, 15 Rom. 10. 5 Rom. 5. 12. 19. Gal. 3 10, 12. Eccles. 7. 29 Iob 28. 20.

II. This Law, after his fall, continued to be a perfect rule of righteousnesse, and, as such, was delivered by God upon Mount Sinai, in Ten Commandements, and written in two Tables Iam. 1. 25 Iam 2. 8, 10, 11, 12. Rom. 13. 8, 9 Deut. 5. 32 Deut. 10. 4 Exod. 34. 1: the foure first Commandements containing our duty towards God, and the other six, our duty to man Mat. 22 37 38, 39, 40.,

III. Beside this Law, commonly called Morall, God was pleased to give to the people of Israel, as a Church under age, Ceremoniall Laws, containing severall typicall Ordinances; partly of Worship, prefiguring Christ, his graces, actions, sufferings, and benefits Heb▪ 9. chap Heb. 10. 1 Gal. 4. 1, 2, 3. Col. 2. 17.; and partly, [Page 39] holding forth divers instructions of mo­rall duties 1 Cor. 5. 7 2 Cor. 6. 17 Iude ver. 23. All which Ceremoniall Laws are now abrogated, under the new Testament Col. 2. 14, 16, 17. Dan. 9. 27 E [...]h. 2. 15, 16..

IV. To them also, as a body Politique, he gave sundry Iudiciall Laws, which ex­pired together with the State of that people: not obliging any other now, further than the generall equity there­of may require Exod. 21 Chapter. Exod. 22. 1 to 29: Gen 49. 10 with 1 Pet. 2. 13, 14 Mat. 5. 17 with ver. 38, 39. 1 Cor. 9. 8, 9, 10..

V. The Morall Law doth for ever bind all, as well justified persons as o­thers, to the obedience thereof Rom. 13. 8, 9, 10. Eph. 6. 2 1 Iohn 2. 3, 4, 7, 8: and that, not only in regard of the matter contained in it, but also in respect of the authority of God the Creatour, who gave it Iam. 2. 10. 1 [...]. Neither doth Christ in the Gospell, any way dissolve, but much strengthen this obligation Mat. 5. 17 18, 19. Iam. 2. 8. Rom: 3. 31..

VI. Although true Believers be not under the Law, as a Covenant of works, to be thereby justified, or condemned Rom. 6. 14 Gala. 2. 16 Gala. 3. 13 Gala. 4. 4, 5 Acts 13. 39 Rom. 8. 1: yet is it of great use to them, as well as to others, in that, as a rule of life inform­ing them of the will of God, and their duty, it directs, and binds them to walk accordingly Rom. 7 12, 22, 25. Psal. 119. 4, 5, 6. 1 Cor. 7. 19 Gal. 5. 14, 16, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23.: discovering also the sin­full pollutions of their nature, hearts & lives Rom. 7. 7 Rom. 3. 20: so as, examining themselves thereby, they may come to further con­viction of humiliation for, and hatred against sin Iam. 1. 23, 24, 25. Rom. 7. 9, 14, 24.: together with a clearer sight of the need they have of Christ, and the [Page 40] perfection of his obedience Gal. 3. 24 Rom. 7. 24 25. Rom. 8 3. 4.. It is like­wise of use to the Regenerate, to restrain their corruptions, in that it forbids sin Iam. 2. 11 Psal. 119 101, 104, 28.: and the threatnings of it serve to shew, what, even their sins, deserve; and, what afflictions, in this life, they may expect for them, although freed from the curse thereof threatned in the Law Ezra 9. 13 14. Psal. 89 30, 31, 32, 33, 34.. The promises of it, in like manner, shew them Gods approbarion of obedience, and what blessings they may expect upon the performance thereof Levit. 26. 1 to 14. with 2 Cor. 6. 16 Eph. 6. 2. 3 Psal. 37. 11 with Mat. 5 5. Psal. 19 11.; although, not as due to them by the Law, as a Co­venant of Works Gal. 2. 16 Luke 17. 10. So as, a mans doing good, and refraining from evill, because the Law encourageth to the one, and deterreth from the other, is no evidence of his being under the Law, and, not un­der grace Rom. 6 12, 14. 1 Pet. 3. 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 with Psa. 34 12, 13 14, 15, 16 Heb. 12. 28, 29..

VII. Neither are the forementioned Vses of the Law contrary to the grace of the Gospel, but do sweetly comply with it Gal. 3. 21, the Spirit of Christ subdu­ing, and inabling the will of man, to do that, freely and chearfully, which the will of God, revealed in the Law, requireth to be done Eze. 36. 27 Heb. 8. 10 with Ier. 31▪ 33..

CHAP. XX. Of Christian Liberty, and Liberty of Conscience.

THe Liberty which Christ hath pur­chased for Beleevers, under the Gospel, consists, in their freedom from the guilt of sin, the condemning W [...]ath of God, the Curse of the Morall Law Tit. 2. 14 1 Thes. 1. 10 Gal. 3. 13; and, in their being delivered from this present evil world, bondage to Satan, and Dominion of sin Gal. 1. 4 Col. [...]. 13 Acts 26. 18 Rom. 6. [...]4; from the evill of afflictions, the sting of death, the vi­ctory of the grave, and everlasting dam­nation Rom. 8. 28 Psal. 119. 71 1 Cor. 15. 55, 55, 56. 57 Rom. 8. 1; as also, in their free accesse to God Rom. 5, 1, 2, and their yeelding obedience un­to him, not out of slavish fear, but a child like love and willing minde Rom. 8, 14, 15, 1 Iohn 4 18.. All which, were common also to Beleevers under the Law Gal. 3. 9, 14.. But under the New Testament, the liberty of Christians is further inlarged, in their freedom from the yoke of the Ceremonial Law, to which the Iewish Church was subjected Gal. 4. 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 Gal. 5. 1 Acts 15. 10, 11.: and in greater boldnesse of accesse to the Throne of Grace Heb. 4. 14 16. Heb. 10 19, 20. 21, 22, and in fuller com­munications of the free Spirit of God, than Beleevers, under the Law, did or­dinarily partake of 1 Iohn 7 38, 39 2 Cor. 3. 13, 17, 19.

II. God alone is Lord of the Con­science Iam. 4. 12 Rom. 14. 4., and hath left it free from the [Page 42] Doctrines and Commandments of men, which are, in any thing contrary to his Word: or beside it, if matters of Faith, or Worship Acts 4. 19 Acts 5. 29 1 Cor. 7. 25 Mat▪ 23. 8. 9 10. 2 Cor. 1 24. Mat. 15. 9. So tha [...], to beleeve such Doctrines, or to obey such commands, out of conscience, is to betray true liber­ty of conscience Col. 2. 20 22. 23. Gal. 1 10. Gal. 2. 14 5. Psal. 5. 1: and the requiring of an implicit faith, and an absolute a [...]d blinde obedience, is, to destroy l [...]berty of conscience, and reason also Rom. 10 17. Rom 14 23 Isa. 8. 20 Acts 17. 11 Iohn 4. [...] Hos. 5. 11 Revel. 13. [...]. 16, 17 Ier. 8. 9.

III. They, who, upon pretence of Christian Liberty, do practise any sin, or cherish any lust, do thereby destroy the end of Christian Liberty, which is, that being delivered out of the hands of our Enemies, we might serve the Lord with­out fear, in holinesse and righteousnesse before him, all the dayes of our life Gal. 5. 13 [...] Pet 2. 16 2 Pet. 2 19▪ Iohn 8. 34 Luke 1. 74. 75.

IV. And because the Powers which God hath ordained, and the Liberty which Christ hath purchased, are not in­tended by God, to destroy, but mutually to uphold & preserve one another; They who upon pretence of Christian Liberty, shall oppose any lawfull Power, or the lawfull exercise of it, whether it be Civill or Ecclesiasticall, resist the Ordinance of GOD Mat. 12. 25 1 Pet. 2. 13 14, 16 Rom. 13. 1 10 8. Heb 13. 17.. And, for their publishing of such Opinions, or maintaining of such Practises, as are contrary to the light of Nature, or to the known Principles of Christianity, whethe concerning Faith, [Page 43] Worship, or Conversation; or, to the Power of Godlinesse; or, such errone­ous Opinions or Practises, as either in their own nature, or in the manner of publishing or maintaining them, are de­structive to the externall Peace and Or­der which Christ hath established in the Church, they may lawfully be called to account, and proceeded against by the Censures of the Church Rom. 1. 32 with 1 Cor 5. 1, 5, 11, 13. 2 Iohnver. 10. 11. and 2 Thes. 3. 14. and 1 Tim. 6, 3, 4, 5. and Tit. 1. 10 11 13. & Tit. 3. 10. with Mat. 18. 15, 16. 17. 1 Tim. 1. 19, 20. Reve. 2. 2, 14, 15, 20. Rev. 3. 9., and by the Power of the Civill Magistrate Deut. 13. 6, to 12. Rom. 13. Rom. 13. 3, 4. with 2 Iohn ver. 10, 11. Ezra. 7. 23, 25, 26, 27, 28. Revel. 17. 12, 16, 17. Nehem. 13. 15, 17, 21, 22, 25, 30. 2 Kings 23. 5, 6, 9, 20, 21. 2 Chron. 34. 33. 2 Chron. 15. 12, 13, 16. Dan. 3. 29. 1 Tim. 2. 2. Isa. 49. 23. Zec. 13 2, 3..

CHAP. XXI. Of Religious Worship, and the Sabbath-day,

THe light of Nature sheweth that there is a GOD, who hath Lordship and Soveraignty over all, is good, and doth good unto all, and is therefore to be feared, loved, praised, called upon, trusted in, & served, with all the heart, and with all the soul, and the might Rom 1. 20 Acts 17. 24 Psal. 119. 68 Ier. 10. 7 Psal. 13. 23 Psal 18. [...] Rom. 10. 12 Psal 6. 2. 8 Ios. 24. 14. Mark 12. 33. But, the acceptable way of Worshipping the true GOD, is instituted by Himself, and so limited by his own revealed Will, that he may [Page 44] not be worshipped according to the im­aginations and devices of men, or the suggestions of Satan, under any visible representation, or any other way not prescribed in the holy Scripture Deut. 12. 32. Mat. 1 [...]. 9. Acts 17. 25. Mat. 4 9. 10. Deu. 4. 15. 10 20. Exo. 20. 4 5, 6. Col. 2. 23.

II. Religious Worship is to be given to GOD the Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost; and to him alone Mat. 4. 10. with Ioh. 5. 23 & 2. 2 Cor. 13. 14; not, to An­gels, Saints, or any other creature Col. 2. 18 Rev. 19. 10 Rom. 1. 25: and, since the Fall, not without a Mediator; nor, in the mediation of any other, but of Christ alone Iohn 14. 6 1 Tim. 2. 5. Eph. 7. 18 Col. 3. 17.

III. Prayer, with thanksgiving, being one speciall part of Religious Worship Phil. 4. 6, is, by GOD required of all men Psal. 65 2; and, that it may be accepted, it is to be made in the Name of the Son Iohn 14. 13. 14. 1 Pet. 2. 5, by the help of his Spirit Rom. 8. 26., according to his Will Ioh. 5. 14, with understanding, reverence, humility, fer­vency, faith, love, and perseverance Psal 47. 7 Eccles. 5. 1, 2 Heb. 12. 28 Gen. 18. 27 Iames 5. 16. Iam. 1, 6, 7 Mark 11. 24. Mar 6. 12. 14. 15. Col 4. 2. Ep. 6. 18; and if vocall, in a known tongue Cor. 14. 14.

IV. Prayer is to be made for things lawfull 1 Ioh 5, 14, and for all sorts of men living, or that shall live hereafter 1 Tim. 2. 1, 2 Ioh. 17 20 2. Sa. 7. 29 Ruth 4. 12: but, not for the dead 2 Sam. 12, 21 22. 23. with Luk. 16. 25, 26 Rev. 14, 3, nor for those of whom it may be known, that they have sinned the sin unto death 1 Ioh. 5. [...]6.

V. The reading of the Scriptures with godly fear Act. 15. 21 Rev. 1. 3, the sound Preaching 2. Tim. 4. 2, and conscionable hearing of the Word, in obedience to God, with understanding, faith, and reverence Iam. 1. 22 Acts 10. [...]5 Mat. 13. 19. He 4. 2. Isa. 66. 2; singing of Psalms [Page 45] with grace in the heart Col. 3. 16 Ephes. 5. 19 Iam. 5. 13; as also, the due administration, & worthy receiving of the Sacraments instituted by Christ, are all, parts of the ordinary Religious Worship of God Mat. 28. 19 1 Cor. 11. 13 to 29. Acts 2. 42: Beside Religious Oaths Deut. 6. 13 with Neh. 10. 29., Vows Isa. 19. 21 with Eccl. 5. 4, 5, Solemn Fastings Ioel 2 12 Esther 4. 16 Mat. 9. 15 1 Cor. 7. 5, and Thanksgivings, upon special occasions Psal. 107 throughout Ester 9. 22, which are, in their severall times and seasons, to be used, in an holy and reli­gious manner Heb. 11. 28.

VI. Neither Prayer, nor any other part of Religious Worship, is now under the Gospel, either tyed unto, or made more acceptable by any place in which it is performed, or towards which it is direct­ed Iohn 4. 21: but God is to be worshipped every where Mal. 1. 11 1 Tim. 2. 8, in Spirit and Truth Iohn 4 23, 24: as in private Families Ier. 10. 25 Deut. 6. 6, 7 Iob 1. 5 2 Sam. 6. 18 20. 1 Pet. 3 7. Acts 10. 2, daily Mat. 6. 11, and in secret, each one by himsel [...] Mat. 6. 6 Eph. [...]. 18; so, more sol [...]mnly, in the publique Assemblies, which are not carelessy, or wilfully to be neglected, or forsaken, when God, by his Word or Providence, calleth thereunto Isa. 56. 7 Heb. 10 25 Prov. 1. 20, 21, 24 Prov. 8. 34 Acts 13 42 Luk. 4. 16 Acts 2. 42.

VII. As it is of the Law of Nature, that, in general, a due proportion of time be set a part, for the Worship of God: so, in his Word, by a positive, Morall, and perpetuall Commandment, binding all men, in all ages, he hath particularly ap­pointed one day in seven, for a Sabbath, to be kept holy unto him Exod. 20 8, 0, 11 Isa. 56. 2, 4, 6, 7.: which, from the beginning of the World to the re­surrection [Page 46] of Christ, was the last Day of the week; and from the Resurrection of Christ, was changed into the first Day of the week Gen. 2. 2, 3 1 Cor. 16. 1, 2 Acts 20. 7, which, in Scripture, is cal­led the LORDS Day Rev. 1. 10, and is to be continued to the end of the World, as the Christian Sabbath Exod. 20. 8. 10. with Mat. 5 17, 18.

VIII. This Sabbath is then kept holy unto the Lord, when men, after a due preparing of their hearts, & ordering of their common affairs before-hand, do not only observe an holy rest, all the Day, from their own works, words, and thoughts about their worldly imploy­ments, and recreations Exod. 20. 8 Exod. 16. 23, 25, 26, 29, 30 Ex. 31. 15, 16, 17 Isa. 58. 13. Nehem. 131 16, 17, 18, 19, 21, 22, but also are ta­ken up the whole time, in the publique and private Exercises of his Worship, & in the duties of necessity, and mercy Isa, 58. 13 Mat. 12. 2 to 13.

CHAP. XXII. Of lawfull Oaths and Vows.

A Lawfull Oath is a part of Religi­ous Worship Deut. 12 20, wherein upon just occasion, the person swearing, so­lemnly calleth God to witnesse what he asserteth, or promiseth, and to judge him according to the truth, or falshood of what he sweareth Exod. 20. 7 Levit. 19. 12 2 Cor. 1. 23 2 Chron. 6 22, 23,:

II. The Name of God only, is that by which men ought to sweare; and, [Page 47] therein it is to be used with all holy fear and reverence Deut. 6. 13. Therefore, to swear vainly, or rashly, by that glorious and dreadfull Name; or, to swear at all, by any other thing, is sinfull, and to be ab­horred Exod 10. [...] Ier. 1. 7 Mat 5. 34, 37 Iam. 5. 12. Yet, as in matters of weight and moment, an Oath is warranted by the Word of God, under the New Testa­ment, as well as under the Old Heb. 6. 16 2 Cor. 1. 2 [...] Isa [...]. 6 [...]. 1 [...]; so a lawfull Oath, being imposed by lawfull Authority, in such matters ought to be taken 1 Kings [...]. 31. Neh 13 25. Ezra. 10 5..

III. Whosoever taketh an Oath, ought duely to consider the weightinesse of so solemn an Act: and therein to avouch nothing, but what he is fully perswaded is the truth Exod. 20. 7 Ier 4. 2. Neither ma [...] any man binde himself by Oath to any thing but what is good and just, and what he belie­veth so to be, and what he i [...] able, and resolved to perform Gen 24. 2 3, 5, 6. 8, 9.. Yet is it a sin, to refuse an Oath touching any thing that is good and just, being impose [...] by law­full Authority Num. 5. 19 21 Neh. 5 12. Ex [...]d. 22 7, 8, 9, 10, 11.

IV. An Oath is to be taken in the plain and common sense of the words, without equivocation, or mentall reser­vation Ier. 4. 2 Psal 24. 4 It cannot oblige to sin: but, in any thing not sinfull, being taken, it binds to performance, although to a mans own hurt 1 Sam. 25 22. [...]2, 33, 34 Psal. 15. 4, nor is it to be violated, although made to hereticks, or infidels Ezek 17 16, 18, 19 I [...]sh 9. 18. 19 with 2 Sam. 21, [...]

V. A Vow is of the like nature with a Promissary Oath, and ought to be made with the like Religious care, and to be performed with the like faithfulnesse Isai. 19. 11 Eccles. 5. 4, 5, 6. Psal. 61. 8 Psal. 66. 13, 14.

VI. It is not to be made to any Crea­ture but to God alone Psal. 76. 11 Ier. 44. 25, 26.: and, that it may be accepted, it is to made voluntarily, out of Faith, and conscience of Duty, in way of Thankfulnesse for mercy recei­ved, or for the obtaining of what we want: whereby we more strictly binde ourselves to necessary duties: or, to o­ther things, so far, and so long, as they may fitly conduce thereunto Deut. 23. 21, 22, 23 Psal 50. 14 Gen. 28. 20, 21, 22 1 Sam. 1. 11 Psal. 66. 13, 14. Psal. 132 2, 3, 4, 5..

VII. No man may Vow, to do any thing forbidden in the Word of God, or what would hinder any duty therein commanded: or which is not in his own power, and, for the performance whereof, he hath no promise of ability from God Acts 23. 12, 14 Mark 6. 26 Numb 30. 5 8. 12, 13.. In which respects, Popish Monasticall Vows, of perpetuall single life, professed Poverty, & Regular Obe­dience, are so far from being degrees of higher Perfection, that they are super­stitious and sinfull snares, in which, no Christian may intangle himself Mat. 19. 11, 12 1 Cor. 7. 2. 9 Eph. 4. 28 1 Pet. 4. 2 1 Cor. 7. 23.

CHAP. XXIII. Of the Civill Magistrate.

GOD, the supream Lord and King of all the World, hath Ordained Civill Magistrates, to be under him, over the people, for his own Glory, and and the publike good: and, to this end, hath armed them with the Power of the sword, for the defence and incourage­ment of them that are good, and for the punishment of evill doers Rom. 13. 1, 2, 3, 4 1 Pet. 2, 13, 14..

II. It is lawfull for Christians to ac­cept and execute the Office of a Magi­strate, when called thereunto Pro. 8. 15. 16: Rom. 13 1, 2; 4: in the managing whereof, as they ought especi­ally to maintain Piety, justice, & Peace, according to the wholsom Laws of each Commonwealth Psal. 2. 10, 11, 12 1 Tim. 2. 2 Psal. 82. 3, 4 2 Sam. 23. 3 1 Pet. 2. 1 [...]: so, for that end, they may lawfully now, under the New Te­stament, wage War, upon just and ne­cessary occasion Luke 3. 14 Rom. 13. [...]4 Mat. 8. 9, 10 Acts 10. 1, 2 Rev. 17. 14.

III. The Civill Magistrate may not assume to himselfe the administration of the Word and Sacraments, or the power of the Keys of the Kingdom of heaven 2 Chro. 26 18, with Mat. 18. 17 Mat. 16, 19 and 1 Cor. 12. 28, 29 Eph. 4. 11, 12. 1 Cor. 4. 1, 2. Rom. 10 15. Heb 5. 4.. yet, he hath Authority, and it is his duty, to take order, that Vnity and Peace be preserved in the Church, that the Truth of God be kept pure, and intire, that all Blasphemies and Heresies be suppressed, [Page 50] all corruptions and abuses in Worship and discipline prevented, or reformed: and all the Ordinances of God duely setled, administred, and observed Isa. 49. 23 Psal. 22. 9 Ezra. [...]. 23, 25, 26, 27, 28 Levit. 24. 15 Deut. 13. 5 6. 12 2 Kings 18. 4 1 Chro. 13 1 to 9. 2 Kings 23. to 26 2 Chro. 34. 33. 2 Chron. 15. 12. 13.. For the better effecting whereof, he hath power to call Synods, to be present at them, and to provide that whatsoever is transacted in them, be according to the mind of God 2 Chro. 9 8, 9 10, 11 2 Chron. 29 30. Chapters Mat. 2. 4, 5.

IV. It is the duety of People to pray for Magistrates 1 Tim. 2. 1, 2, to honour their persons 1 Pet 2 1 [...], to pay them tribute and other dues Rom. 13. 6, 7., to obey their lawfull commands, and to be subject to their Authority, for consciencesake Rom. 13. 5 Tit. 1. 3. Infidelity, or difference in Religion doth not make void the Magistrates just and leg [...]ll Authority, not free the people from their due obe­dience to him 1 Pet. 2. 13, 14, 16: from which, Eccle­siasticall persons are not exempted Rom. 13 16. Kings 2 35. Acts 25 9, 10, 11 2 Pet. 2. 1, 10. 11 Iude ver. 8 9, 10, 11, much lesse hath the Pope any power and jurisdiction over them, in their Domi­nions, or over any of their people; and least of all, to deprive them of their Dominions, or lives, if he shall judge them to be Hereticks, or upon any other pretence whatsoever 2 Thes. 2. 4 Rev. 13. 15, 16, 17..

CHAP. XXIV. Of Marriage, and Divorce.

MArriage is to be between one Man and one Woman: neither is it lawfull for any man to have more then one Wife, nor for any Woman to have more then one Husband, at the same time Gen. 2. 24 Mat. 19. 5, 6 Pro. 2. 17.

II. Marriage was ordained for the mutuall help of Husband and Wife Gen. 2 18, for the increase of man-kinde with a legiti­mate issue, and of the Church with an holy seed Mal. 2. 15, and for preventing of un­cleannesse 1 Cor. 7 29.

III. It is lawfull for all sorts of peo­ple to marry, who are able with judge­ment, to give their consent Heb 13 4 1 Tim 4. 3 1 Cor. 36 37, 38 Gen 24. 57, 5 [...]. Yet, is it the duty of Christians to marry only in the Lord 1 Cor. 7. 39. And therfore such as professe the true reformed Religion, should not marry with Infidels, Papists, or other Idolaters: Neither should su [...]h as are godly be unequally yoked, by marrying with such as are notoriously wicked in their life, or maintain damnable Here­sies Gen. 34. 14 Exod. 3 [...]. 16 Deut. [...]. 3 4 1 Kings 11, 4. Neh. 13. 25 26, 27. Mal. 2, 1 [...] 12 2 Cor. 6. 14.

IV. Mariage ought not to be within the degrees of Consanguinity or Affinity forbidden in the Word [...]evit 18 Chapter. 1 Cor. 5. 1 Amo. 2. 7.: Nor can such incestuous marriages ever be made law­full [Page 52] by any Law of man, or consent of Parties, so as those persons may live to­gether as man and wife Mark. 6. 18 Lev. 18. 24, 25, 26, 27, 28.. The man may not marry any of his wives kindred nea­rer in bloud, then he may of his own: nor, the woman of her husbands kinred, nearer in bloud, then of her own Levit. 20, 19, 20, 21..

V. Adultery, or fornication commit­ted after a Contract, being detected be­fore marriage, giveth just occasion to the innocent party to dissolve that contract Mat. 1. 18, 19, 20.: In the case of Adultery after marriage, it is lawfull for the Innocent party to sue out a Divorce Mat. 5. 31, 32.: And after the Di­vorce, to marry another, as if the offend­ing party were dead Mat. 19. 9 Rom. 7. [...], 3.

VI. Although the corruption of man be such as is apt to study arguments, un­duely to put asunder those whom God hath joyned together in marriage: yet, nothing but Adultery; or such wilfull desertion as can no way be remedied, by the Church, or Civil Magistrate, is cause sufficient of dissolving the bond of Mar­riage Mat. 19. 8, 9. 1 Cor. 7. 15. Mat 19. 6.: Wherein, a publick and orderly course of proceeding is to be observed: And, the Persons concerned in it, not left to their own wills and discretion, in their own case Deut. 24. 1, 2, 3, 4..

CHAP. XXV. Of the Church.

THe Catholick or Vniversall Church which is invisible, consists of the whole number of the Elect, that have bin, are, or shall be gathered into one, under Christ the Head thereof; and is, the Spouse, the Body, the fulnesse of Him that filleth all in all Eph. 1. 10, 22, 23 Eph. 5. 23, 27. 32 Col. 1. 18.

II. The visible Church, which is also Catholick or Vniversall, under the Gos­pell (not confined to one Nation, as be­fore, under the Law) consists of all those, throughout the World, that professe the true Religion 1 Cor. 1, 2 1 Cor. 12 12 13. Psal. 2. 8 Rev. 7. 9 Rom. 15. 9 10, 11, 12; and of their children 1 Cor. 7. 14. Acts 2 39. Ezek. 16. 20, 21. Rom. 11 16. Gen. 3. 15. Gen. 17. 7: and is, the Kingdome of the Lord Iesus Christ Mat. 13. 47 Isa. 9. 7 [...] Eph. 1. 19, the House and Family of God Eph, 2. 15, out of which there is no ordinary possibility of Salvation Acts▪ 2. 47.

III. Vnto this Catholick Visible Church, Christ hath given the Ministe­ry, Oracles, and Ordinances of God, for the gathering, and perfecting of the Saints, in this life, to the end of the world: a [...]d doth by his own presence and Spirit, according to his promise, make them effectuall thereunto 1 Cor, 12 28. Eph. 4 11, 12, 13 Mat. 28. 19, 20. Isa. 50. 21.

IV. This Catholick Church hath bin sometimes more, sometimes lesse vi­sible Rom. 11. 3 4. Rev. 12. 6, 14.. And particular Churches which are Members thereof, are more or lesse as [Page 54] pure, according as the Doctrine of the Gospel is taught and imbraced, Ordi­nances administred, and publick worship performed more or less purely in them Rev. 2. 3 chapters. 1 Cor. 5. 6, 7.

V. The purest Churches under Heaven are subject both to mixture, and errour 1 Cor 13. 12. Rev. 2. 3 chapters. Mat. 13. 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 29, 30, 47: and some have so degenerated, as to become no Churches of Christ, but Sy­nagogues of Satan Rev. 18. 2 Rom. 11. 18, 19, 20, 21, 22. Neverthelesse, there shall be alwayes a Church on Earth, to Worship God according to his will Mat. 16 18 Ps [...]l. 72. 17 Ps [...]l. 102. 28 Mat 28. 19 20.

VI. There is no other Head of the Church, but the Lord Iesus Christ Col. 1. 18 Eph 1. 22: Nor can the Pope of Rome, in any sence be head thereof: but is, that Antichrist, that man of sin, and Sun of Perdition, that exalteth himself, in the CHurch a­gainst Christ, and all that is called God Mat. [...]3. 8, 9, 10 2 Thess. 2. 3, 4 8. 9 Rev. 13. 6..

CHAP. XXVI. Of the Communion of Saints.

ALL Saints, that are united to Ie­sus Christ their Head, by his Spi­rit, and by Faith, have fellowship with him in his graces, Sufferings, Death, Re­surrection, and Glory 1 Iohn 1 Eph 3. 16, 17 18 19 Iohn 1. 16 Eph. 2 5, 6 Phil. 3. 10 Rom. 6. 5, 6 2 Tim. 2 12: And, being u­nited to one another in love, they have communion in each others gifts & gra­ces Eph. 4. 15, 16. 1 Cor. 12 7. 1 Cor 3. 21, 22, 23 Col. 2. 19., and are obliged to the performance of such duties publick and private, as do conduce to their mutuall good, both in [Page 55] the inward and outward man 1 Thes. [...] 11. 14 Rom. 1 11, 12 14. 1 Iohn 3. 16 17, 18. Gal. 6. 10..

II Saints by profession are bound to maintain an holy fellowship and com­munion in the worship of God: and in performing such other spirituall services as tend to their mutuall edification Heb. 10, 24 25. Acts 2. 42, 46 Isa 2 3 1 Cor. 11 20: as also, in relieving each other in out­ward things, according to their severall abilities, and necessities: Which Com­munion, as God offereth opportunity, is to be extended unto all those, who in every place call upon the Name of the Lord Iesus Acts 2. 44 45. 1 Iohn 3. [...]7 2 Cor. 8 9. chapters. Acts 11. 29, 30..

III. This Communion which the Saints have with Christ, doth not make them, in any wise, partakers of the sub­stance of his God-head, or to be equall with Christ in any respect: either of which to affirm, is impious, and blasphe­mous Col 1. 18, 19. 1 Cor. 8 6. Isa. 42▪ 8 1 Tim 6 15 16. Psal. 45 7. with Heb. 1. 8, 9.. Nor doth their Communion one with another, as Saints, take away, or in fringe the title, or propriety which each man hath in goods and possessions Exod. 20. 15 Eph 4 28 Acts 5. 4..

CHAP. XXVII. Of the Sacraments.

SAcraments are holy Signes, and Seales of the Covenant of Grace Rom. 4. 11 Gen. 17. 7, 10, immediatly instituted by God Mat. 28. 19 1 Cor 11. 23., to re­present Christ, and his Benefits; and, to [Page 56] confirm our interest in him 1 Cor. 10, 16. 1 Cor 25, 26. Gal. 3. 27.: as also, to put a visible difference between those that belong unto the Church, and the rest of the World Rom. 15. 8 Exod. 12. 48 Gen. 34. 14: and, solemnly to engage them to the Service of God in Christ according to his Word Rom. 6. 3, 4. 1 Cor. 10. 16, 21..

II. There is in every Sacrament a spi­rituall relation, or Sacramentall union, between the Signe and the Thing signi­fied: whence it comes to passe, that the names, and effects of the one, are attri­buted to the other Gen. 17. 10 Mat. 26. 27, 28. Tit. 3. 5.

III. The grace which is exhibited in, or by the Sacraments rightly used, is not conferred by any power in them: neither doth the efficacy of a Sacrament depend upon the piety, or intention of him that doth administer it Rom, 2. 28, 29. 1 Pet. 3. 21, but, upon the work of the Spirit Mat. 3. [...] 2 Cor. 12. 13, and the word of institution, which contains, together with a precept authorizing the use thereof, a promise of benefit to worthy receivers Mat. 26. 27, [...]8. Mat. 28. 19, [...]0..

IV. There be only two Sacraments ordained by Christ our Lord, in the Gospel, that is to say, Baptism and the Supper of the Lord: neither of which may be dispensed by any, but by a Mini­ster of the Word lawfully ordained Mat. [...]8. 19 1 Cor. 11. 20, 23. 1 Cor. 4. 1 Heb. 5. 4.

V. The Sacraments of the Old Testa­ment, in regard of the spirituall things thereby signified, and exhibited, were, for substance, the same with those of the New 2 Cor. 10, 1 [...] 2, 3, 4. [...].

CHAP. XXVIII. Of Baptism.

BAptism is a Sacrament of the New Testament, Ordained by Iesus Christ Mat. 28. 19, not only for the solemn Ad­mission of the party Baptized, into the Visible Church 1 Cor. 12 13: but also, to be unto him a signe, and seal of the Covenant of Grace Rom. 4. 11 with Col. 2. 11, 12, of his ingrafting into Christ Gal 3. 27 Rom. 6. 5, of Regeneration Tit. 3. 5, of Remission of sins Mark 1. 4 and of his giving up unto God through Iesus Christ, to walk in newnes of life Rom. 6. 3, 4.. Which Sacrament is, by Christs own appointment, to bee continued in his Church untill the end of the World Mat. 28. [...]9 20..

II. The outward Element to be used in this Sacrament is Water, wherewith the Party is to be Baptized, in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, by a Minister of the Gospel, lawfully called thereunto Mat. 3. 11 Iohn 1. 33 Mat. 28. 19, 20..

III. Dipping of the person into the Water, is not necessary: but, Baptism is rightly administred, by powring, or sprinkling Water upon the person Heb 9. 10, 19, 20, 21, 22 Acts 2. 41 Acts 16. 33 Mark. 7. 4.

IV. Not only those that do actually professe Faith in, and obedience unto Christ Mark. 16, 15, 16. Acts 8. 37, 38., but also the infants of one, or [Page 58] both believing Parents, are to be bap­tized Gen. 17. 7 9. with Gal. 3. 9, 14▪ & Col. 2. 11, 12, & Acts 2. 38, 39. & Rom. 4. 11, 12 1 Cor. 7. 14 Mat. 28. 19 Mark. 10. 13, 14, 15, 16 Luke 18. 15.

V. Although it be a great sin to con­temn or neglect this Ordinance Luke 7. 30 with Exo. 4. 24, 25, 26, yet Grace and Salvation are not so insepa­rably annexed unto it, as that no person can be regenerated or saved, without it Rom. 4. 11 Acts 10. 2. 4 23, 31, 45, 47: or, that all that are Baptized, are undoubtedly regenerated Acts 8. 13, 23..

VI. The efficacy of Baptism is not tied to that moment of time, wherein it is administred Iohn 3. 5, 8: yet, notwithstanding, by the right use of this Ordinance, the grace promised, is not only offered, but really exhibited, and conferred, by the Holy Ghost, to such (whether of age, or infants) as that grace belongeth unto, according to the Councell of Gods own Will, in his appointed time Gal. 3. 27 Tit. 3. 5. Eph 5. 25, 26 Acts 2. 38. 41.

VII. The Sacrament of Baptism is but once to be administred unto any person Tit. 3. 5..

CHAP. XXIX. Of the LORDS Supper.

OVr Lord Iesus, in the night where­in he was betrayed, Instituted the Sacrament of his Body and Blood, called the Lords Supper, to be observed in his Church, unto the end of the world, [Page 59] for the perpetuall Remembrance of the sacrifice of Himself, in his Death: the sealing all benefits thereof unto true Be­lievers, their Spiritual nourishment and growth in him, their further engage­ment in, and to, all duties which they owe unto him; and, to be a bond, and pledge of their Communion with him, and with each other, as members of his mysticall Body 1 Cor 11 23, 25. 26 2. Cor. 10. 16. 2 [...], 21 2 Cor. 12. 13.

II. In this Sacrament Christ is not offered up to his Father: nor, any reall Sacrifice made at all, for remission of sins of the quick or dead Heb. 9. 22, 25, 26, 28, but only a Com­memoration of that one offering up of Himself, by Himself, upon the Crosse once for all: and a spiritual Oblation of all possible praise unto God, for the same 1 Cor. 11 24, 25, 26 Mat. 26, 26, 27.: So that the Popish Sacrifice of the Masse (as they call it) is most abo­minably injurious to Christs one, onely Sacrifice, the alone Propitiation for all the sins of the Elect Heb. 7. 23, 24, 27. Heb. 10. 11, 12, 14, 18..

III. The Lord Iesus hath, in this Or­dinance, appointed his Ministers to de­clare his word of institution to the peo­ple, to pray, and blesse the Elements of Bread and Wine, & thereby to set them apart from a Common to an Holy Vse: and, to Take, and Break the Bread, to Take the Cup, & (they communicating also themselves) to give both to the [Page 60] Communicants Mat. 26 26, 27, 28 & Mark. 14. 22 23, 24. and Luke 22. 19, 20. with 1 Cor. 11 23, 24, 25, 26; but, to none who are not then present in the Congregation Acts 20. 7 1 Cor. 11. 20.

IV. Private Masses, or receiving this Sacrament by a Priest, or any other, alone 1 Cor. 10. 6, as likewise, the denyall of the Cup to the people Mark. 4. 23 1 Cor. 11. 25 26, 27, 28, 29, worshipping the Elements, the lifting them up, or carry­ing he about for adoration, and the reserving them for any pretended reli­gious use, are all contrary to the nature of this Sacrament, and to the Institution of Christ Mat. 15. 9.

V. The outward Elements in this Sacrament, duly set apart, to the uses or­dained by Christ, have such relation to him crucified, as that truly, yet Sacra­mentally onely, they are sometimes cal­led by the name of the things they re­present, to wit, the Body and Blood of Christ Mat. 26 26. 27, 28, albeit, in substance and na­ture, they still remain, truly, and only Bread and Wine, as they were before 1 Cor. 11 26, 27, 28 Mat. 26. 29.

VI. That Doctrine which maintains a change of the substance of Bread and Wine, into the substance of Christs Bo­dy & Blood (commonly called Transub­stantiation) by Consecration of a Priest, or by any other way, is repugnant, not to Scripture alone, but even to common Sense and Reason; overthroweth the nature of the Sacrament, and hath bin, & is, the cause of manifold Supertitions, ye, of grosse Idolatries Act. 3. 21 with 1 Cor. 11. 24 25, 26 Luk. 24. 6, 39..

VII. Worthy Receivers outwardly partaking of the visible Elements, in this Sacrament 1 Cor. 11 28., do then also, inwardly by faith, really and indeed, yet not carnally and corporally, but Spiritually, receive, and feed upon Christ crucified, and all benefits of his death: The Body and Blood of Christ being then, not corpo­rally, or carnally, in, with, or under the Bread and Wine; yet, as really, but Spi­ritually, present to the Faith of Believers in that Ordinance, as the Elements themselves are to their outward senses 1 Cor 10 16.

VIII. Although ignorant, and wick­ed men receive the outward Elements, in this Sacrament: yet, they receive not the Thing signified thereby; but by their unworthy comming thereunto, are guilty of the Body & Blood of the Lord to their own damnation. Wherefore, all ignorant, and ungodly persons, as they are unfit to enjoy communion with him, so are they unworthy of the Lords Ta­ble; and, cannot without great sin against Christ, while they remain such, partake of these Holy Mysteries 1 Cor. 11 27, 28, 29 2 Cor. 14, 6 15. 16, or be admit­ted thereunto 1 Cor. 5. 6 7, 13 2 Thess. 3 6, 14, 15 Mat. 7. 6.

CHAP. XXX. Of Church Censures.

THe Lord Iesus, as King and Head of his Church, hath therein ap­pointed a Government, in the hand of Church Officers, distinct from the Civill Magistrate Isa. 9. 6, 7 1 Tim. 5. 17 1 Thess. 5. 12 Acts 20. 17, 28. Heb. 13 7. 17, 24 1 Cor. 12. 28 Mat. 28. 18, 19, 20..

II. To these Officers, the Keys of the Kingdom of Heaven are commit­ted: by vertue whereof, they have power, respectively, to retain, and re­mit sins; to shut that Kingdom against the impenitent, both by the Word, and Censures; and to open it unto penitent sinners, by the Ministery of the Gospel, and by Absolution from Censures, as occasion shall require Mat. 16. 19 Mat. 18. 17, 18. Iohn 20 20, 21, 22, 23 2 Cor. 2. 6, 7 8..

III. Church Censures are necessary, for the reclaiming and gaining of of­fending Brethren, for deterring of o­thers from the like offences, for purging out of that Leaven which might in fect the whole Lump, for vindicating the ho­nour of Christ, and the holy Profession of the Gospel, and for preventing the wrath of God, which might justly fall upon the Church, if they should suffer his Covenant, and the Seals thereof to be prophaned by notorious and obsti­nat [...] offenders 1 Cor. 5. Chapter. 1 Tim. 5. 20 Mat. 7. 6 1 Tim. 1. 20 1 Cor. 11. 27 to the end, with Iude ver 23..

IV. For the better attaining of these ends, the Officers of the Church are to proceed by Admonition, suspension from the Sacrament of the Lords Supper for a season; and, by Excommunication from the Church, according to the nature of the crime, and demerit of the person 1 Thes. 5 12. 2 Thes. 3. 6, 14, 15 1 Cor. 5. 4, 5 13. Mat. 18 17. Tit. 3. 10.

CHAP. XXXI. Of Synods and Councels.

FOr the better Government, and further edification of the Church; the [...]e ought to be such Assemblies, as are commonly called Synods or Councels Act. 15. 2 4. 6..

II. As Magistrates may lawfully call a Synod of Ministers, and other fit Per­sons, to consult and advise with, about matters of Religion Isa. 49. 23 1 Tim 2. 1, 2 2 Chron. 19 8, 9, 10. 11 2 Chron. 29 30. Chap­ters. Mat. 24, 5. Prov. 11. 14: So, if Magi­strates be open Enemies to the Church, the Ministers of Christ, of themselves, by vertue of their Office; or, they, with other fit persons, upon delegation from their Churches, may meet together in such Assemblies Acts 15. 2 4, 22, 23, 25.

III. It belongeth to Synods and Councels, ministerially to determine Controversies of Faith, & cases of Con­science, to set down Rules & Directions for better Ord [...]ring of the publick Wor­ship of God, and Government of his [Page 64] Church; to receive complaints, in cases of Male administration: and, authorita­tively, to Determine the same: which Decrees, and Determinations, if conso­nant to the Word of God, are to be re­ceived with reverence, and submission; not only, for their agreement with the Word, but also for the Power, whereby they are made, as being an Ordinance of God appointed thereunto in his Word Acts 15. 15 19, 24, 27, 28 29. 30, 31 Acts 16. 4 Mat. 18. 17, 18, 19, 20..

IV. All Synods or Counsels, since the Apostles times, whether generall, or particular, may erre; and, many have erred. Therefore, they are not to bee made the rule of Faith, or practice; but, to be used as an help in both Eph 2. 22 Acts 17. 11 1 Cor. 2. 5 2 Cor. 1. 24.

V. Synods and Counsels are to handle, or conclude nothing, but that which is Ecclesiasticall: and are not to intermed­dle with civill affaires which concern the Common-wealth, unlesse by way of humble petition in cases extraordinary; or, by way of Advice, for satisfaction of conscience, if they be thereunto re­quired by the civill Magistrate Luke 12 13, 14. Iohn 18. 36.

CHAP. XXXII. Of the state of men after death, and of the Resurrection of the dead.

THe Bodies of men, after death, return to dust, and see corrupti­on Gen. 3. 19 Acts 13. 36: but, their soules (which neither die, nor sleep) having an immortall sub­sistence, immediatly return to GOD, who gave them Luk. 23 43 Eccles. 22. 7: the soules of the Righteous, being then made perfect in holinesse, are received into the highest Heavens, where they behold the face of God, in light & glory, waiting for the full Redemption of their Bodies Heb. 12. 23 2 Cor 5, 1, 6 8. Phil. 1. 23 with Acts 3 21. & Eph. 4. 10.. And the souls of the wicked are cast into Hell, where they remain in torments & utter darknesse, reserved to the Iudgement of the great Day Luk. 16. 23 24. Acts 1 25 Iude v. 6, 7 1 Pet. 3. 19. Beside these two places, for souls separated from their bo­dies, the Scripture acknowledgeth none.

II. At the last Day, such as are found alive shal not die, but be changed 1 Thes. 4. 17 1 Cor. 15. 51 52.: and, all the dead shall be raised up, with the self same bodies, & none other, although with different qualities, which shall be united again to their souls for ever Iob 19. 26 27. 1 Cor. 15 42, 43, 44.

III. The bodies of the unjust, shall, by the power of Christ, be raised to dis­honour: the bodies of the just by his spi­rit, [Page 66] unto honour; and, be made confor­mable to his own glorious Body Acts 24, 1 [...] Ioh. 5. 28, 29 1 Cor. 15. 42 Phil. 3. 21.

CHAP. XXXIII. Of the last Judgement.

GOD hath appointed a Day, where­in he will judge the World, in righteousnesse, by Iesus Christ Acts 17. 31, to whom, all power, and judgement is given of the Father Ioh 5. 22, 27. In which day, not only the Apostate Angels shall be judg­ed 1 Cor. 6. 3 Iude vers. 6 2 Pet. 2. 4., but likewise all persons that have lived upon earth, shall appear before the tribunall of Christ, to give an account of their thoughts, words, and deeds; and to receive according to what they have done in the Body, whether good or evill 2 Cor. 5, 10 Eccl. 12. 14 Rom. 2. 16 Rom 14. 10, 12. Mat. 12 36, 37..

II. The end of Gods appointing his Day, is for the manifestation of the glo­ry, of his Mercy, in the eternall sal [...]a [...]ion of the Elect; &, of his Iustice, in the dam­nation of the reprobate, who are wick­ed, and disobedient. For, then shall the Righteous go into everlasting Life, and receive that fulnesse of Ioy, and refresh­ing, which shall come from the presence of the Lord but, the wicked, who know not God, and obey not the Gospel of Ie­sus Christ, shall be cast into eternal Tor­ments, and be punished with everlasting [Page 67] destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power Mat. 25. 31 to the end Rom. 2. 5, 6 Rom. 9. [...]2, 2 [...]. Mat. 25 21. Acts 3. 19 2 Thess. 1, 7, 8, 9, 10.

III. As Christ would have us to bee certainly perswaded, That there shall be a Day of Iudgement, both to deterre all men from sin, and for the greater con­solation of the godly in their adver­sity 2 Pet. 3. 11, 14. 2 Cor. 5 10, 11, 2 Thes 1. 5, 6, 7. Luk 21. 2 [...], 28 Rom. 8. 23 24, 25 g Mat. 24. 36 42, 43, 44 Mark. 13. 35 36, 37. Luk. 11. 35, 36 Rev. 22. 20: so, will hee have that Day un­known to men, that they may shake off all carnall security, and be alwayes watchfull, because they know not at what hour the Lord will come; and, may bee ever prepared to say, come Lord Iesus, come quickly, Amen.

  • Charles Herle, Prolocutor.
  • Cornelius Burges, Assessor.
  • Herbert Palmer, Assessor.
  • Henry Rob [...]ough, Scriba.
  • Adoniram Byfield, Scriba.
FINIS.

The LARGER CATECHISM, Agreed upon by the Assembly of Divines at Westminster, To be a part of Uniformity in Religion between the Churches of Christ in the three Kingdomes.

QUESTION.

WHat is the chief and highest end of man?

A. Mans chief and highest end is, to glorifie God Rom. 11. 36. 1 Cor. 10. 31, and fully to enjoy him forever Ps. 73. 24. to the end. Ioh. 17, 21, 22, 23..

Q. How doth it appear that there is a God?

A. The very light of nature in man, and the works of God, declare plainly that there is a God Rom. 1. 19 20. Ps. 19. 1. 2. 3 Acts 17. 18: but his Word and Spirit only doe sufficiently and effectu­ally reveale him unto men for their sal­tion 1 Cor. 2 9 10 2 Tim 3. 15, 16, 17 Isa. 59. 21.

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 2 Pet. 1. 19, 20, 21, the only Rule of Faith & Obedience Eph 2. 20 Rev. 22. 18, 19..

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 1 Cor. 2. 6, 7 13. Psal. 119. 18, 129, and purity Psal. 12 6 Ps. 119. 140; by the consent of all the parts Acts 10. 43 Acts 26. 22, and the scope of the whole, which is to give all glory to God Rom. 3. 19, 27; by their light and power to convince and convert sinners, to comfort and build up Believers unto salvation Acts 18. 28 Heb. 4. 12 Iam. 1. 18 Psal. 19. 7, 8, 9. Rom. 15. 4 Acts 20. 32: But the Spirit of God, bearing witnesse 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 Ioh. 16 13. 14 1 Ioh. 2. 20 1 [...]. Ioh. 20. 31.

Q. What doe 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.

Q. What doe the Scriptures make known of God?

A. The Scriptures make known what [Page 71] God is Heb. 11. 6, the Persons in the Godhead 1 Ioh. 5. 7, his Decrees Acts 15, 14 15, 18, and the execution of his Decrees Acts 4. 27, 28.

Q. What is God?

A. God is a Spirit Ioh. 4. 24, in and of him­self infinite in being Exod. 3. 14 Iob 11. [...], 8, 9, glory Acts 7. 21, blessed­ness 1 Tim. 6 15., and perfection Mat. 5. 45; alsufficient Gen. 17. 1, eternal Psal. 90. 2, unchangeable Mal. 3. 6 Iam. 1. 17, in comprehen­sible 1 Kin. 8. 27, every where present Psal. 139. 1 to 13., almighty Rev. 4. 8, knowing all things Heb. 4. 13 Psal. 147. 5, most wise Rom. 16 17, most holy Isa. 6. 3 Rev. 15, 4, most just Deut. 32, 4, most mercifull and gracious, long-suffering and abundant in goodnesse and truth Exod 34 6.

Q. Are there more Gods then one?

A. There is but one on [...]y, the living and true God Deut. [...]. 4 1 Cor. 8. 4. 6 Ier. 10. 10.

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, eter­nall God, the same in substance, equall in power and glory, although distingui­shed by their Personall properties 1 Ioh. 5. 7 Mat 3. 16, 17 Mat. 28. 12 2 Cor. 13. 14 Ioh. 10. 30.

Q. What are the Personall Properties of the three Persons in the Godhead?

A. It is proper to the Father to be get the Son Heb. 1. 5, 6, 8, and to the Son to be begotten of the Father Ioh. 1. 14, 18, and to the Holy Ghost to proceed from the Father and the Son, from all eternity Io [...]. 15. 16 Gal. 4. 6.

Q How doth it appeare that the Son and [Page 72] the Holy Ghost are God, equall 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 Isa. 6. 3, 5, 8 with Ioh. 12. 41. and Acts 28. 25 1 Ioh. 5, 20 Acts 5. 3, 4, attributes Ioh. 1. 1 Isa. 9 6. Ioh. 1. 24, 25 1 Cor. 2. 10, 11., works Col. 1. 16 Gen 1. 2, and worship, as are proper God onely Mat. 28. 19 2 Chr. 13. 14.

Q. What are the Decrees of?

A. Gods Decrees are the wise, free, and holy acts of the counsel of his will Eph. 1. 11 Rom. 11. 33 Rom. 9. 14, 15, 18, whereby from all eternity, he hath for his own glory, unchangeably, fore-ordained whatsoever comes to passe in time Eph. 1. 4 11. Rom. 9 22, 23 Psal. 33. 11; es­pecially concerning Angels and men.

Q What hath God especially decreed concerning Angels and Men?

A. God by an eternall and immutable Decree, out of his meer love, for the praise of his glorious grace to bee ma­nifested in due time, hath elected some Angels to glory 1 Tim. 5 21; and in Christ hath chosen some men to eternall life, and the meanes thereof Eph. 1. 4 5, 6. 2 Thes. 2. 13 14.: and also accor­ding to his soveraign power, and the unsear [...]hable counsell of his own will, (whereby he extendeth or with-holdeth favour as he pleaseth) hath passed by and 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 Mat. 11, 25 26. 2 Tim. 2. 20. Iude v 4. 1 Pet. 2. 8..

Q How doth God execute his Decrees?

A. God executeth his Decrees in the [Page 73] works of Creation and Providence; ac­cording to his infallible foreknowledge, and the free and immutable counsell of his own will Eph. 1. 1 [...].

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 himselfe, within the space of six dayes, and all very good Gen. 1. Ch. Heb. 11. 3 Prov. 16. 4.

Q. How did God create the Angels?

A. God created all the Angels Col. 1. 16, spi­rits Ps 104 4, immortall Mat. 2. 30, holy Mat. 25. 31, excelling in knowledge 2 Sam. 14 17. Mat. 24 36, mighty in power 2 Thes. 1. 7, to execute his Commandements, and to praise his Name Ps. 103. 20 21.; yet subject to change 2 Pet. 2 4.

Q. How did God create man?

A. After God had made all other crea­tures, he crated man male and female Gen 1. 27; formed the body of the man of the dust of the ground Gen. 2. 7; and the woman of a rib of the man Gen. 2. 22; indued them with living, reasonable, and immortall souls Gen. 2. 7 with Iob 35 11. and Eccl. 12. 7 & Mat. 10 28. & Luk. 23. 43; made them after his own image Gen. [...]. 17, in know­ledge Col. 3. 10, righteousnesse, and holinesse Eph 4. 14, having the Law of God written in their hearts Rom. 1. 14 25.: and power to fulfill it Eccl. 7. 29, with dominion over the creatures Gen. 1. 28, yet sub­ject to fall Gen. 3. 6 Eccl. 7. 29.

Q. What are Gods works of Providence?

A. Gods works of Providence are, his most holy Ps. 145. 17, wise Psal. 104 24 Isa 28. 19, and powerfull, preserving Heb. 1. 3, and powerfull, preserving Heb. 1. 3 and governing all his crea­tures Mat. 10. 29 30, 31 Gen 45. 7, ordering them and all their acti­ons a to his own glory Rom. 11. 36 Isa 63 14.

Q. What is Gods Providence toward the Angels?

A. God by his providence permitted some of the Angels, wilfully and irreco­verably to fall into sin and damnation Iude v. 6 2 Pet. 2. 4 Heb, 2. 16 Ioh. 8. 44, limiting and ordering that, and all their sins to his own glory Iob 1. 12 Mat. 8. 31; and established the rest in holinesse and happiness [...] Tim. 5. 21 Mark. 8. 38 Heb. 12. 22: im­ploying them all Ps. 104. 4, at his pleasure, in the administrations of his power, mercy, and justice 2 King. 19 35 Heb, 1. 14.

Q. What was the Providence of God toward man in the estate in which he was [...]reated?

A. The providence of God toward man, in the estate in which he was crea­ted, was, the placing him in Paradise, appointing him to dresse it, giving him l [...]berty to eat of the fruit of the earth Gen. 1. 8, 15. 16, putting the creatures under his domi­nion Gen. 1. 28, and ordaining marriage for his help Gen. 2. 18: affording him communion with himself Gen. 1. 26, 27, 28. 29 Gen. 3. 8, instituting the Sabbath Gen. 2. 3, en­tering into a Covenant of life with him, upon condition of personall, perfect, and perpetuall obedience Gal 3. 12 Rom. 10. 5, of which the Tree of Life was a pledge Gen. 2. 9, and forbid­ding [Page 75] to eat the Tree of the Knowledge of good and evil, upon pain of death Gen. 1. 17.

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 Commandement of God, in eating the forbidden fruit, and thereby fell from the estate of Innocency, wherein they were created Gen. 3. 6, 7, 8, 13 Eccl. 7, 29 2 Cor. 11. 3.

Q. Did all mankinde fall in that first trangression?

A. The Covenant being made with Adam as a publ [...]ke person, not for him­self only, but for his posterity, all man­kinde descending from him by ord [...]na­ry generation Act 17. 26, sinned in him, and fell wi [...]h him in that first tran [...]gression Gen. 2. 16, 17. with Rom. 5. 12 to 20 and 1 Cor 15. 21 22..

Q. Into what estate did the fall bring mankinde?

A. The fall brought mankinde into an estate of sin and misery Rom. [...]. 12 Rom. 3. 23.

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 Ioh. 3. 4 Gal. 3. 10. 12

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

A. The sinfulness of that estate wher­into man fell, consisteth in that guilt of Adams first sin Rom. 5. 12 19., the want of that righ­teousnesse [Page 76] wherein he was creared, 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. 10 [...]0 20 Eph. 2. 1, 2, 3 Rom. 5. 6 Rom. 8. 7, 8 Gen. 6. 5, which is commonly cal­led Originall Sin, and from which doe proceed all actuall transgressions Iam. 1. 14, 15. Mat. 15. 19.

Q▪ How is Originall Sin conveyed from our first Parents unto their posterity?

A. Originall Sin is conveyed from our first Parents unto their posterity by naturall generation, so as all that pro­ceed from them in that way, are con­ceived and born in sin Psal 51. 5 Iob 14. 4 Iob 15. 14 Ioh. 3. 6.

Q. What misery did the fall bring upon mankinde?

A. The Fall brought upon mankinde the losse of Communion with God a, his Gen 3. 8, 10, 24 displeasure and curse, so as we are by na­ture children of wrath Eph. 2. 2, 3, bond slaves to Satan 2 Tim. 2 26., and justly liable to all punish­ments in this world, and that which is to come Gen. 2. 17 Iam. 3. 39 Rom. 6. 23 Mat. 25. 41, 46. Iude v. 7.

Q. What are the punishments of Sinne in this world?

A. The punishments of Sin in this world, are, either inward, as blindnesse of mind Eph. 4. 18, a reprobate sense Rom. 1, 28, strong delusi­ons 2 Thes. 2 11., hardness of heart Rom. 2. 5, horror of con­science Isa. 33. 14 Gen. 4. 13 Mat. 27. 4, & vile affections Rom. 1. 26: or outward, as the curse of God upon the creatures [Page 77] for our sakes Gen. 3. 17, and all other evils that befall us in our bodies, names, estates, relations, and imployments Deut. 28 15. to the end., together with death it selfe Rom. 6, 21 23..

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 Thes. 1. 9 Mar. 9. 44 46 48 Luk. 16. 24.

Q. Doth God leave all mankinde to pe­rish in the estate of sinne and misery?

A. God doth not leave all mankinde to perish in the estate of sin and misery 1 Thes. 5. 9 into which they fell by the breach of the first Covenant, commonly called the Covenant of Works Gal. 3. 10 12.; 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. Gal. 3. 21 Rom. 3. 20 21, 22..

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 Rom. [...]. 15 to the end. Isa. 35. 10, 11.

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 [Page 78] provideth and offereth to sinners a Me­diator Gen. 3. 15 Isa. 42. 6 Ioh. 6. 27, and life and salvation by him 1 Ioh. 5. 11 12; and, requiring Faith as the condition to interest them in him Ioh 3. 16 Ioh. 1. 12, promiseth and giveth his holy Spirit Prov. 1. 23 to all his e­lect to work in them that faith 2 Cor. 4. 13, with all other saving graces Gal 5. 22 23, and to enable them unto all holy obedience Ezek. 36 2 [...], as the evidence of the truth of their faith Iam. 2. 18 22 and thankfulnesse to God 2 Cor. 5. 14 15, and as the way which he hath appointed them to salva­tion Eph. 2. 10.

Q. Was the Covenant of Grace alwayes 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.

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, prophecies Act 3 20 24., Sacrifices Heb. 10. 1, Circumcision Rom 4. 11, the Passeover 1 Cor. 5. 7, and o­ther types and ordinances, which did all foresignifie Christ then to come, and were for that time sufficient to build up the Elect in faith in the promised Mes­siah Heb. 8. 9, 10 Chapters Heb 11. 13., by whom they then had full remis­sion of sin, and eternall salvation Gal. 3. 7. 8, 9. 14.

Q. How is the Covenant of Grace admi­stred [Page 79] under the New Testament?

A. Vnder the new Testament, when Christ the substance was exhibited, the same Covenant of Grace was and still is to be administred in the preaching of the word Mar. 16. 15, and the administration of the Sacraments of Baptism Mat 28. 19 20 and the Lords Supper 1 Cor. 11 23 24, 25; in which, Grace and salvati­on is h [...]ld forth in more fulnesse, evi­dence, and efficacy, to all nations 2 Cor. 3. 6 to the end Heb. 8. 6, 10 11. Mat. 28. 19..

Q Who is the Mediator of the Covenant of Grace?

A. The only Mediator of the Cove­nant of Grace is the Lord Iesus Christ 1 Tim. 2. 5, who being the eternall Son of God, of one substance and equall with the Fa­ther Ioh. 1. 1, 14 Ioh. 10. 30 Phil. 2 6, in the fulnesse of time became man Gal 4. 4, and so was and continues to be God and man in two intire distinct na­tures, and one person, for ever Luk. 1. 35 Rom. 9. 5 Col. 2. 9 Heb. 7. 14, 25.

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

A. Christ the Son of God became Man by taking to himselfe a true body, and a reasonable soul Ioh. 1. 14 Mat. 26. 38, being concei­yed by the power of the Holy Ghost, in the womb of the Virgin Mary, of her substance, and born of her Luk. 1. 27 31, 35, 42 Gal 4. 4, yet without sin Heb. 4 5 Heb. 7. 16.

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

A. It was requisite that the Mediator [Page 80] 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 Rom. 1. 4 with Rom. 4. 25. Heb. 9. 14; give worth and effica­cy to his suffrings, obedience and inter­cession Acts 20. 28 Heb. 9. 14 Heb. 7. 25, 26, 27, 28; and so satisfie Gods justice Rom. 3. 24 25, 26, procure his favour Eph. 1. 6 Mat. 3. 17, purchase a peculiar people Tit. 2. 13 14., give his Spirit to them Gal. 4. 6, con­quer all their enemies Luk. 1. 68, 69, 71, 74, and bring them to everlasting salvation Heb. 5. 8. 9 Heb. 9. 11 to 16.

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, perform obedience to the Law Gal. 4. 4, suffer and make intercession for us in cur nature Heb. 2. 14 Heb. 7. 24, 25▪, have a fellow-feeling of our infirmities Heb. 4. 15; that we might re­ceive the adoption of sons Gal 4. 5, and have comfort and accesse with boldness unto the throne of Grace Heb. 4. 16.

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

A. It was requisite that the Mediator, who was to reconcile God and man, should himselfe be both God and man, and, this in one person, that the proper works of each nature might be accepted of God for us Mat. 1. 21. 23 Mat. 3. 17 Heb. 9. 14, and relyed on by us, as the works of the whole person 1 Pet. 2. 6.

Q. Why was our Mediator called Iesus?

A. Our Mediator was called Iesus, [Page 81] because he saveth his people from their sins Mat. 1. 2.

Q. Why was our Mediator called Christ?

A. Our Mediator was called Christ, because he was anointed with the Holy Ghost above measure Ioh. 3 34 Psal. 45. 7, and so, set apart, and fully furnished with all authority and ability Ioh. 6. 27 Mat. 28. 18, 19. 20. to execute the Offices of Prophet Acts 3. 21, 22. Luk 4. 18, 21, Priest Heb. 5. 5, 6, 7. Heb. 4. 14, 15., and King of his Church Psal. 2. 6 Mat. 21. 5 Isa. 9. 6, 7 Phil. 2. 8, 9 10, 11, 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 Ioh. 1. 18, in all ages, by his Spirit and Word 1 Pet. 1. 10 11, 22, in divers wayes of administration Heb. 1. 1, 2, the whole will of God Ioh. 15, 15 in all things con­cerning their edification and salvation Acts 20. 32 Eph 4. 11, 12 13. Ioh. 20. 32.

Q. How doth Christ execute the O [...]e of a Priest?

A. Christ executeth the Office of a Priest, in his once offering himselfe a Sacrifice without spot to God Heb. 9. 14, 28., to be a reconciliation for the sins of his peo­ple Heb. 2. 17, and in making continuall inter­cession for them Heb. 7. 25.

Q. How doth Christ execute the Office a King?

A. Christ executeth the Office of a King, in calling out of the world a peo­ple to himselfe Acts 15 14 15, 16 Isai 55 4, 5 Gen 49. [...]0 Psal. 110, 3, and giving them Offi­cers [Page 82] Eph. 4. 11 12 1 Cor, 12. 28 Isai 33 22, Laws h, and Censures, by which he visibly governs them Mat. 18. 17, 18 1 Cor. 5. 4, 5; in bestowing saving grace upon his elect Acts 5. 31, rewarding their obedience Rev. 22, 12 Rev, 2. 10, and correcting them for their sins Rev. 2. 19, preserving & supporting them under all their temptations and sufferings Isai 63, 9, restraining and overcom­ming all their enemies 1 Cor. 15 25 Psal. 110 thoughout, and powerful­ly ordering all things for his own glo­ry Rom. 14. 10, 11, and their good Rom, 8, 28; and also in taking vengeance on the rest, who know not God, and obey not the Gospel 1 Thes, 1 8 9 Psal. 2, 8, 9.

Q. What was the estate 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 & birth, life, death, and aft [...] his death untill his resurrection Phil, 2, 6, 7, 8 Luk. 1. 33 2 Cor, 8, 6 Acts 2. 2, 4.

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

A. Christ humbled himself in his con­ception and birth, in that, being, from all eternity, the Son of God, in the bo­some of the Father, he was pleased in the fulnesse 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 abasement Iohn 1. 14. 18. Gal. 4. 4 Luke 2. 7.

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 which he perfectly fulfilled Mat. 5. 17 Rom. 5. 19, and by conflict­ing with the indignities of the world Psal. 22. 6 Heb. 12. 2, 3, temptations of Sathan Mat. 4. 1. 10 12. Luke 4. 13, and infirmities in his flesh, whether common to the na­ture of man or particularly accompany­ing that his low condition Heb. 2. 17, 18 Heb. 4. 15 Isai 5, 13, [...]4..

Q. How did Christ humble himself in his death?

A. Christ humbled himselfe in his death, in that having been betrayed by Iudas Mat. 27. 4., forsaken by his Disciples Mat. 20. 56, scorn­ed and rejected by the world Isa 53 2 3, condem­ned by Pilate, and tormented by his per­secutors Mat. 27. 26 to 50 Iohn 19. 34▪; having also conflicted with the terrors of death, and the power of dark­nesse, felt and born the weight of Gods wrath Luk, 22 44 Mat 27. 46; he laid down his life an offering for sin Ira. 53. 10, enduring the painfull, shameful and cursed death of the crosse Phil. 2. 8 Heb. 12. 2 Gal. 3. 13..

Q. Wherein consisted Christs humilia­tion after his death?

A. Christs humiliation after his death, consisted in his being buried 1 Cor. 15 3. 4 Psal 16. 10 with Acts 2 24, 25, 26, 27 31 Rom. 6. 9 Mat. 12. 40., & conti­nuing in the state of the dead, & under the power of death till the third day i, which hath been other Wise expressed in these words, He descended into Hell.

Q What was the estate of Christs exalta­tion?

A. The estate of Christs Exaltation [Page 84] comprehendeth his Resurrection 1 Cor. 15 4, As­scention Mar. 16. 19., sitting at the right hand of the Father Eph 1. 20., and his coming again to judge the world Acts 1. 11. Acts 17. 31..

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 Acts 2. 24. 27.; and having the very same body in which he suffered, with the essentiall properties thereof Luk. 24. 39, but without mortality and other common infirmities belonging to this life, re­ally united to his soule Rom. 10. 9. Rev. 5. 18., he rose again from the dead the third day, by his own power Ioh. 10. 18; whereby he declared himself to be the son of God Rom. 1. 4., to have satisfied di­vine justice Rom. 8. 34., to have vanquished death and him that had the power of it Heb. 2. 14., and to be Lord of quick and dead Rom. 14 9.; all which he did as a publick person 1 Cor. 15. 21. 22., the head of his Church Eph. 1. 20. 22. 23. Col. 1. 18., for their justificati­on Rom. 4. 25., quickning in grace Eph. 2. 1. 5. 6 Col. 2. 12., support a­gainst enemies 1 Cor. 15. 25. 26. 27., and to assure them of their resurrection from the dead at the last day 1 Cor. 15. 20..

Q. How was Christ exalted in his Ascension?

A. Christ was exalted in his Ascensi­on, in that having after his Resurrection often appeared unto, & conversed with his Apostles, speaking to them of the [Page 85] things pertaining to the Kingdome of God Acts 1. 2. 3. and giving them commission to preach the Gospell to all nations Mat. 28. 19 20.; forty dayes after his resurrection, he, in our na­ture, and as our head Heb. 6. 20▪, triumphing o­ver enemies Eph. 4. 8., visibly went up into the highest heavens, there to receive gifts for men Acts 1. 9. 10. 11. Eph. 4. 10. Psal. 68. 18., to raise up our affections thither Col. 3. 1. 2▪, and to prepare a place for us Ioh. 14. 3., where himself is, and shall continue, till his se­cond comming at the end of the world Acts 3. 21..

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 God­man he is advanced to highest favour with God the Father Phil. 2. 9., with all fulnesse of joy Acts 2. [...]8: with Psal. 16. 11., glory Ioh. 17. 5., and power over all things in heaven and earth Eph. 1. 22. 1 Pet. 3. 21. and doth gather and defend his Church, & subdue their enemies, furnisheth his ministers and people with gifts and graces Eph. 4. 10. 11, 12. [...]sa. 110. throughout., and ma­keth intercession for them Rom. 8. 34..

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; in the merit of his obedience and sacrifice on earth Heb. 1. 3. declaring his will to have it applyed to all believers Ioh. 3. 16. Ioh 17. 9. 20. 24., answering all accu­sations against them Rom. 8, 33. 34., procuring for them quiet of conscience, notwithstand­ding [Page 86] daily failings Rom 5. 1, 2 1 Iohn. 2. 1, 2, accesse with bold­nesse to the throne of Grace Heb. 4 16 & accep­tance of their persons Eph. 1. 6 and services 1 Pet. 2, 5.

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

A. Christ is to be exalted in his com­ing again to judge the world, in tha the who was unjustly judged & condemned by wicked men Acts 3. 14 15., shal come again at the last day with great power b, & in the full c Mat. 24. 30 manifestation of his own glory, and of his Fathers with all his holy Angels Luk. 9. 26 Mat. 25, 31, with a shout, with the voice of the Arch-Angel, and with the Trumpet of God 1 The. 4. 16, to judge the world in righteousnesse Acts 17. 31.

Q. What benefits hath Christ procured by his Mediation?

A. Christ by his Mediation hath pro­cured redemption Heb. 9. 12, with all other be­nefits of the Covenant of Grace [...] Cor. 1. 10.

Q How doe 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 Ioh. 1. 11 12, which is especially the work of God the Holy Ghost. Tit. 3, 5, 6

Q. Who are made partakers of Redempti­on by Christ?

A. Redemption is certainly applyed, & effectually communicated to all those [Page 87] for whom Christ hath purchased it Eph. 1. 3. 14. Ioh. 6. 37. 39 Ioh. 10. 15 16, who are in time by the holy Ghost inabled to beleeve in Christ according to the Gos­pel Eph. [...]. 8 2 C [...]r. 4. 13.

Q. Can they who have never heard the Gospel, and so, know not Iesus 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, know not Iesus Christ 2 Thes. 1 8, 9 Eph. 2. 12 Ioh 1. 10 11. 12, and believe not in him, cannot be saved Ioh 8 24 Mar. 16, 16, be they never so diligent to frame their lives according to the light of nature 1 Cor 1. 20 21. 22, 23, 24 or the Law of that Religion which they professe Ioh. 4. 22 Rom, 9. 31 32 Phil. 3. 4 5 6, 7. 8, 9; neither is there salvation in a­ny other, but in Christ alone Acts 4. 12 who is the Savior only of his body in the Church Eph. [...]. [...]3.

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 o [...]ly who are true members of the Church invisible Ioh. 12, 38, 39, 40 Rom. 9. 6 Maz 22. 14. Mat. 7. 21 Rom. 11. 7.

Q. What is the visible Church?

A. The visible Church is a society made up of all s [...]ch as in all ages and places of the world, doe professe the true Religi­on 1 Cor. 1. 2 1 Cor 12. 13 Rom. 15. 9 10, 11, 12 Rev. [...]. 9 Psal. 2. 8. Psal. 22. 27 28, 29, 30, 31 Ps [...]l. 45. 17 Mat. 28. 19 20 Isa. 59. 21, and of their children 1 Co [...]. 7. 14 Acts 2. 39 Rom 11. 16 Gen. 17. [...].

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

A. The visible Church hath the privi­ledge of being under Gods speciall care [Page 88] and government Isa. 4. 5, 6 1 Tim. 4. 10, of being protected and preserved in all ages, notwithstand­ing the opposition of all enemies Psal. 11. 15 throughout. Isa. 31. 4, 5 Zach. 12. 2, 3 4, 8, 9., and of enjoyning the communion of Saints, the ordinary means of salvation Act. 2. 39, 42., offers of grace by Christ to all the members of it in the ministery of the Gospel, testifying, that whosoever beleeves in him shall be saved Psal. 147 19, 20 Rom. 9. 4 Eph. 4. 11, 12 Mar. 16. 15, 16, and excluding none that will come unto him Ioh. 6. 37..

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 Ioh. 10: 16 Ioh. 11. 52.

Q. What speciall Benefits doe the mem­bers of the Invisible Church enjoy by Christ?

A The members of the Invisible Church, by Christ, enjoy Vnion and Communion with him, in grace and glory Ioh. 17. 21 Eph. 2. 5, 6 Ioh. 17. 24.

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

A. The Vnion which the Elect have with Christ, is the work of Gods grace Eph. 1. 22 Eph. 2. 6, 7, 8, whereby they are spiritually and mysti­cally, yet really and inseparably joyned to Christ, as their head and husband 1 Cor. [...]. 17 Ioh. 10. [...]8 Eph. 5 23. 30; which is done in their effectuall Cal­ling 1 Pet. 5. 10 1 Cor. 1. 9.

Q. What is effectuall Calling?

A. Effectuall Calling is the work of Gods almighty power and grace Ioh. 5. 25 Eph. 1. 18, 19 20. 2 Tim. 1. 8. 9, where by, out of his free and especiall love to his Elect, and from nothing in them moving him thereunto Tit. 3. 4, 5 Eph. 2. 4, 5, 7, 8, 9. Rom. 9. 11., he doth in his accepted time invite and draw them to Iesus Christ by his Word and Spirit 2 Cor. 5. 20 with 2 Cor. 6. 1, 2 Ioh. 6. 44 2 Thes. 2. 13 14, savingly inlightning their minds Acts 26 18 1 Cor. 2. 10 12, re­newing & powerfully determining their wils Ezek. 11 19. Eze. 36. 26, 27 Iohn 6. 4 [...], so as they, although in themselves dead in sin, are hereby made willing and able freely to answer his call, and accept and imbrace the grace offered and conveyed therein Eph 2. 5 Phil. 2. 13 Deut. 30. 6.

Q. Are the Elect only effectually cal­led?

A. All the Elect, and they onely, are effectually called Acts 13. 48; although others may be, and often are, outwardly called by the ministery of the Word Mat. 22. 14, and have some common operations of the Spi­rit Mat. 7. 22 Mat. 13. 20 21. Heb. 6. 4, 5, who for their wilfull neglect and contempt of the grace offered to them, being justly left in their unbelief, do never truly come to Iesus Christ Ioh. 12. 38, 39, 40 Acts 28. 25, 26, 27 Ioh. 6. 64, 65. Ps. 81, 11, 12..

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 vertue of his Mediation, in their ju­stification [Page 90] Rom. 8. 30, Adoption Eph. 1. 5, Sanctification, and whatever else in this life manifests their Vnion with him 1 Cor 1. 30.

Q. What is Iustification?

A. [...]ustification is an act of Gods free grace unto sinners Rom. 3. 22 24. 25 Rom. 4. 5, in which he pardo­neth all their sins, accepteth & account­eth their persons righteous in his sight 2 Cor. 2. 5, 19, 21 Rom. 3. 22 24, 25, 27, 28, not for any thing wrought in them, or done by them Tit. 3 5. 1 Eph. 1. 7, but only for the perfect obedience & full satisfaction of Ch [...]ist, by God imputed to them Rom. 5. 17 18, 19, and received by faith alone Acts 10. 43 Gal. 2. 16 Phil. 3. 9.

Q. How is Iustification an act of Gods free Grace?

A. Although Christ by his Obedience and death, did make a proper, reall, and full satisfaction to Gods Iustice, in the behalf of them that are justified Rom. 5, 8, 9 10, 19; yet, in as much as God accepteth the satisfa­ction from a Surety, which he might have demanded of them; did provide this Surety, his own only son 1 Tim. 2, 5 6 Heb. 10. 10 Mat. 20. 28 Dan. 9. 24, 26 Isa. 53. 4, 5 6, 10, 11, 12 Heb. 7. 22 Rom. 8. 32 1 Pet. 1. 18, 19, imputing his righteousnesse to them 2 Cor. 5. 21, & requi [...]ing no▪ thing of them for their Iustification, but Faith Rom. 3. 24 25, which also is his gift Eph. 2. 28, their Iustification is, to them, of free grace Eph. 1. 7.

Q. What is Iustifying Faith?

A. Iustifying Faith is a saving grace Heb. 10. 39, wrought in the heart of a Sinner by the Spirit 2 Cor. 4. 13 Eph. 1. 17, 18 19 and work of God Ro. 10. 14 17▪, whereby he, being convinced of his sin and misery, [Page 91] and of the disability in himself and all o­ther creatures to recover him out of his lost condition Acts 2. 3 Acts 16. 30 Ioh. 16. 8 9 Rom. 5. 6 Eph, 2. 1 Acts 4. 12, not only assenteth to the truth of the promise of the Gospel Eph. 1. 13, but receiveth and resteth upon Christ and his righteousnes therein held forth, for pardon of sin Ioh. 1. 12 Acts 16. 31 Acts 10 43, and for the accepting and accounting of his person righteous in the sight of God for salvation [...]hil. 3. 19 A8. 15. 11.

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 Ga [...]. 3. 11 Rom. 3. 28., nor as if the grace of Faith, or any act thereof, were imputed to him for his ju­stification Rom. 4. 5 with Rom. 10, 10; but only as it is an Instru­ment, by which he receiveth and apply­eth Christ and his righteousnesse Ioh. 1, 12 Phil. 3. 9 Gal. 2. 16.

Q What is Adoption?

A. Adoption is an act of the free grace of God Ioh. 3. 1, in and for his onely Son Iesus Christ Eph. 1. 5 Gal. 4. 4, 6, whereby all those that are justi­fied are received into the number of his children Ioh, 1. 12, have his name put upon them 2 Cor. 6, 18 Rev, 3, 12, the Spirit of his Son given to them Gal, 4, 6, are under his fatherly care and dispensations Psal, 10, 13 Prov, 14, 26 Mat 6, 32, admitted to all the liber­ties & priviledges of the sons of God, made heires of all the promises, and fel­low heires with Christ in glory Heb. 6 13 Rom, 8, 17.

Q. What is Sanctification?

A. Sanctication 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 pow­erfull working of his Spirit Eph. 1. 4. 1 Cor. 6. 11. 2 Thes. 2. 13., applying the death & refurrection of Christ unto them Rom. 6. 4, 5, 6., renewd in their whole man after the image of God Eph. 4. 23. 24., having the seeds of repentance unto life, & of al other saving graces put into their hearts Acts 11. 18. 1 Iohn. 3. 9., and those graces so stirred up, increased, & streng­thened Iude v. 20. Heb. 6. 11, 12. Eph. 3. 16, 17. 18. 9. Col 1. 10, 11., as that they more and more die unto sin, and rise unto newnesse of life Rom. 6. 4, 6, 14. Gal. 5. 24..

Q What is repentance unto life?

A. Repentance unto life, is a saving grace 2 Tim. 2. 25 wrought in the heart of a sinner by the Spirit Zach. 12, 10. & Word of God Acts 11. 18. 20, 2 [...].; where­by, out of the sight and sense not only of the danger Ezek. 18. 28. 30, 32. Luk. 15. 17, 18 Hos. 2. 6, 7, but also of the filthinesse and odiousnesse of his sins Ezek. 36. 31 Isa 30. 22., & upon the apprehension of Gods mercy in Christ to such as are penitent Ioel 2. 12. 13., he so grieves for Ier. 31. 18. 19., and hates his sins 2 Cor. 7. 11., as that he turns from them all to God Acts 26. 28. Ezek. 14. 6. 1 Kin. 8. 47. 48., purposing and endeavouring constantly to walk with him in all the wayes of new obedience Psal. 119. 6 19. 12. Luk. 1. 6. 2 Kin. 23. 25.

Q. Wherein do justification and Sanctifi­cation differ?

A. Although Sanctificati-be inseparably joyned with Iustificati­on 1 Cor. 6. 11. 1 Cor. 1. [...].; yet they differ, in that God in Iu­tification imputeth the righteousnesse of [Page 93] Christ Rom. 4. 6, 8, in sanctification his spirit infu­seth grace, and enableth to the exercise therof Ezek, 36 27; in the former sin is pardoned Rom. 3. 24 25, in the other it is subdued Rom. 6. 6 14; 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. 33 34; the other is neither equall in all 1 Ioh. 1. 12 13, 14 Heb. 5. 12, 13 14, nor in this life perfect in any 1 Ioh. 1. 8, 10, but growing up to perfection 2 Cor. 7. 2 Phil. 3. 12, 13 14.

Q. Whence ariseth the imperfection of Sanctification in beleevers?

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 Mar. 14, 66 to the end. Gal. 2. 11, 12, are hindered in all their spirituall services Heb. 12. 1, and their best works are im­perfect and defiled in the sight of God Isa. 64. 6 Exod, 28, 38.

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

A. True Beleevers, by reason of the unchangeable love of God Ier. 31. 3, and his De­cree & Covenant to give them perseve­rance 2 Tim. 2. 19 Heb. 13. 20 21 2 Sam. 23. 5, their inseparable union with Christ 1 Cor. 18. 9, his continuall intercession for them Heb. 7. 25 Luk. 22. 32, and the spirit and seed of God abiding in them 1 Ioh. 3. 9 1 Ioh. 2. 27., can neither totally [Page 94] nor finally fall away from the state of grace Ier, 32. 40 Ioh. 10. 28, but are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation 1 Pet. 1. 5.

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

A. Such as truly believe in Christ, and endeavor to walk in all good conscience before him 1 Iohn 2. 3, may without extraordinary revelation by faith grounded upon the truth of Gods promises, & by the spirit enabling them to discern in themselves those graces in which the promises of life are made 1 Cor. 2. 12 1 Ioh. 3. 4 18, 19, 21, 24 1 Iohn 4. 13 16 Heb. 6. 11, 12, and bearing witnesse with their spirits, [...]hat they are the children of God Rom. 8. 16, be infallibly assured that they are in the estate of grace, & shall persevere therein unto salvation 1 Ioh. 5. 1.

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, true believers may wait long before they ob­tain it Isa. 50. 10 Psal. 88. throughout, and after the enjoyment thereof may have it weakned and intermitted through manifold distempers, sins, temp­tations, and desertions Psal. 77. 1 to 12 Cant. [...]. 2, 3, 6 Psal. 58. [...] Psal. 31. 22 Psal 22. 1.; yet are they ne­ver left without such a presence & sup­port of the Spirit of God, as keeps them from sinking into utter despair Ioh 3 9 Iob 13: 15 Ps. [...]3. 15, 23. Isa. 54. 7, 8, 9 10.

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, im­mediately after death Luk. 23. 43, and at last per­fected at the resurrection and day of judgement 1 Thes. 4. 17.

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, & so, in him, are interessed in that glory which he is fully possessed of Eph. 2. 5. 6; and, as an earnest thereof, enjoy the sense of Gods love Rom. 5. 5 with 2 Cor. 1. 22, peace of consci­ence, joy in the holy Ghost, and hope of glory Rom. 5, 1, 2 Rom. 14. 17: as on the contrary, the sense of Gods revenging wrath, horrour of conscience, and a fearfull expectation of judgement, are, to the wicked, the be­ginning of their torments which they shall endure after death Gen. 4. 13 Mat. 27 4 Heb. 10. 27 Rom. 2. 9 Mat. 9. 44.

Q. Shall all men die?

A Death being threatned as the wages of sin Rom. 6. 25, it is appointed unto all men once to die Heb 9 27, for that all have sinned Rom. 5. 12.

Q. Death being the wages of sin, why are [Page 96] not the righteous delivered from death, see­ing all their sins are for given 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, 56 Heb, 2. 15, so that, although they die, yet it is out of Gods love Isa. 57. 1, 2 2 Kin. 22. 20, to free them perfectly from sin and mise­ry Rev. 14. 13 Eph. 5. 27, and to make them capable of fur­ther communion with Christ in glory, which they then enter upon Luk. 23. 43 Phil. 1. 23.

Q. What is the commnuion 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 holinesse Heb. 12. 23, and received into the highest heavens 2 Cor. 5. 1 6, 8 Phil. 1. 23 with Acts 3. 21. and Eph. 4. 10, where they be­hold the face of God in light and glo­ry 1 Ioh 3. 2 1 Cor. 13. 12, waiting for the full redemption of their bodies Rom. 8. 23 Psal. 19. 6, which even in death con­tinue united to Christ 1 Thes. 4 14, and rest in their graves as in their beds Isai 57. 2, till at the last day they he again united to their souls Iob 19. 26 27: whereas the souls of the wicked are at death cast into hell, where they remain in torments and utter darknesse, and their bodies kept in their graves, as in their prisons, till the resurrection and judgement of the great day Luk. 16. 23 24 Acts 1. 25 Iude v. 6, 7.

Q. What are we to believe concerning the Resurrection?

A. We are to believe that at the last day there shal be a generall resurrection of the dead, both of the just & unjust Acts 24. 15; 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 1 Thes. 4. 15 16, 17 Ioh. 5. 28, 29; 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, 24 43, 44 Phil. 3. 31, and the bodies of the wicked shall be raised up in dishonour, by him, as an offended Iudge Ioh. 5. 27, 28, 29 Mat. 25. 33.

Q. What shall immediately follow after the resurrection?

A. Immediately after the resurrection shall follow the generall and final judg­ment of Angels and men 2 Pet. 2. 4 Iude v. 6, 7, 14, 15 Mat 25 46, the day and hour whereof no man knoweth, that all may wacth and pray, and be ever ready for the comming of the Lord Mat. 24. 36 42, 44 Luke 21. 35 36.

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

A. At the day of Iudgment the wick­ed shal be set on Christs left hand Mat. 25. 33, and, upon clear evidence, and full conviction of their own consciences Rom. 2. 15 16, shall have the [Page 98] fearfull, but just, sentence of condemna­tion pronounced against them Mat. 25. 41 42, 43; 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 devill and his Angels for ever Luk. 16. 26 2 Thes. 1, 8, 9.

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

A. At the day of Iudgement, the righ­teous, being caught up to Christ in the clouds 1 Thes. 4 17, shall be set on his right hand, & there openly acknowledged, and acquit­ted Mat. 25. 3 [...] Mat. 10 32, shall joyn with him in the judging of reprobate Angels and men 1 Cor. 6 2, 3, and shal be received into heaven Mat. 25. 34 46; where they shal be fully and for ever freed from all sinne and misery Eph 5. 27 Rev. 14. 13, filled with unconcei­vable joyes Psal. 16. 11, made perfectly holy, and happy both in body & soul, in the com­pany of innumerable Saints, and holy Angels Heb. 12. 22 23, but especially in the immedi­ate vision and fruition of God the Fa­ther, of our Lord Iesus Christ, and of the holy Spirit, to a [...]l eterni [...]y 1 Ioh. 3. 2 1 Cor. 13. 12 1 Thes. 4. 17 18: and this is perfect and full communion which the members of the invisible Church shall enjoy with Christ in glory at the resur­rection and day of Iudgement.

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

Q. WHat 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 Mic 6. 8 1 Sam. 15. 22.

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 mankinde in him, beside a speciall command, not to eat of the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, was, the Morall Law Gen. 1. [...]6 2 [...] Rom. 2. 14, 15 Rom. 10. 5 Gen. 2. 17.

Q. What is the Morall Law?

A. The Morall Law is the declaration of the will of God to mankinde, direct­ing and binding every one to personall, perfect, and perpetuall conformity and obedience thereunto, in the frame and disposition of the whole man, soul and body Deut. 5, 1, 21, 32, 33 Luk. 10. 26, 27 Gal 3. 10 1 Thes. [...]. 13, and in performance of all those duties of holinesse and righteousnesse which he oweth to God and man [...]uk. 1 75 Acts 14. 16; pro­mising life upon the fulfilling, and [Page 100] threatning death upon the breach of it Rom. 10. 5 Gal. 3. 10, 12.

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

A. Although no man, since the fall, can attain to righteousnesse and life by the Morall Law Rom. 8. 3 Gal. 2. 16, 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.

Q. Of what use is the Morall Law to all men?

A. The Morall Law is of use to all men, to enfo [...]m them of the holy nature and will of God Lev. 11. 44 45▪ Lev. 20. 7, 8 Rom. 7. 12, & of their duty, bind­ing them to walk accordingly Mic. 6. 8 Tim. 2. 10, 11; to con­vince them of their disability to keep it, and of the sinfull pollution of their na­ture, hearts, and lives Psal. 19, 11 12 Rom. 3. 10 Rom. 7. 7; to humble them in sense of their sin and misery Rom. 3. 9 23, and thereby help them to a clearer sight of the need they have of Christ Gal. 3. 21 22, and of the perfection of his obedience Rom. 10. 4.

Q. What particular use is there of the Morall 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, and to drive them to Christ Gal. 1. 24; or, upon their continuance in the estate and way of sin, to leave them inexcusable Rom. 1. 20 with Rom. 2. 15 Gal. 3. 10., and under the curse thereof e.

Q. What speciall use is there of the Mo­rall [Page 101] Law to the regenerate?

A. Although they that are regenerate, and believe in Christ, be delivered from the Morall Law as a Covenant of works Rom. 6. 14 Rom 7. 4. 6 Gal. 4. 4, 5, so as thereby they are neither justified Rom. 3 20, nor condemned Gal. 5. 23 Rom. 8. 1; yet, beside the generall uses thereof common to them with all men, it is of speciall 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 Gal. 3. 13, 14 Rom. 8. 3, 4; and thereby to provoke them to more thankfulness Luk. 1. 68, 69, 74, 75 Col. 1 12, 13 14, and to expresse the same in their greater care to conform themselves thereunto as the rule of their obedience Rom. 7. 22 Rom. 12. 2 Tit. 1. 11. 12, 13, 14.

Q. Where is the Morall Law summarily comprehended?

A. The Morall Law is summarily comprehended in the ten Commande­ments, which were delivered by the voyce of God upon mount Sinai, and written by him in two Tables of stone Deut. 10 4. Exod 34. 1, 2, 3, 4, and are recorded in the twentieth Chap­ter of Exodus; the four first Commande­ments containing our duty to God, and the other six our duty to man Mat. 22 37, 38, 39, 40.

Q. What rules are to be observed for the right understanding of the ten Commande­ments?

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

That the Law is perfect, and bindeth every one to ful conformity in the whole man unto the righteousnes therof, & un­to intire obedience, for ever; so as, to re­quire the utmost perfectiō of every duty, & to forbid the least degree of every sin Psal. 19. 7 Iam. [...]. 10 Mat. 5. 21 to the end..

That it is spirituall; and so, reacheth the Vnderstanding, Will, Affections, and all other powers of the soul, as well as words, works, and gestures Rom. 7. 14 Deut 6. 5 with Mat. 22, 37▪ 38, 39 Mat. 5. 21, 22 27 28, 36, to the end..

That one and the same thing, in divers respects, is required or forbidden in se­verall Commandements Col. 3 5 Amos 8. 5 Prov. 1. 19 1 Tim. 6. 10.

That, as, where a duty is commanded, the contrary sin is forbidden Isa. 58. 13 Deu. 6. 13 with Mat. 4, 9, 10 Mat 15. 4 5, 6; and, where a sin is forbidden, the contrary duty is commanded Mat. 5. 21, 22, 23, 24, 25 Eph. 4. 28; so, where a promise is an­nexed, the contrary threatning is inclu­ded Exo. 10. 12 with Prov. 30, 17; and, where a threatning is annex­ed, the contrary promise is included Ier. 18. 7, 8 Exod 20. 7, with Ps 15 1, 4, 5, & Psal. 24. 4, 5.

That, what God forbids, is at no time to be done Iob 13. [...], [...] Rom. 3. 8 Iob 36, 21 Heb 11. 25; what he commands, is alwayes our duty Deut. 4. 8. 9, yet every particular duty is not to be done at all times Mat. 12. 7.

That, under one sin or duty, all of the same kind are forbidden or commanded, together with all the causes, meanes, oc­casions, and appearances thereof, and provocations thereunto Mat. 5. 21 22, 27, 28 Mat. 15 4, 5. 6 Heb. 10 24, 25 1 Thes. 5. 22 Iude v. 13 Gal. 5. 16 Col. 3. 21.

That what is fo [...]bidden or commanded to our selves, we are bound, according to our places, to endeavour that it may be [Page 103] avoyded or performed by others, ac­cording to the duty of their places Exod. 20 10 Lev. 19. 17 Gen. 18. 19 Iosh 24. 15 Deut. 6. 6, 7.

That, in what is commanded to o­thers, we are bound according to our places and callings to bee helpfull to them 2 Cor. 1. 24; and to take heed of partaking with thers in what is forbidden them 1 Tim. 5. 22 Eph. 5. 11.

Q. What speciall things are we to consi­der in the ten Commandements?

A. We are to consider in the Com­mandements, the Preface, the substance of the Commandements themselves, and severall Reasons annexed to some of them the more to enfore them.

Q. What is the Preface to the Comman­dements?

A. The Preface to the Commande­ments is contained in these words [I am the Lord thy God which have brought thee out of the Land of Egypt, out of the hou [...]e of Bondage Exod. 20. 2] wherein God manifesteth his So [...]eraignty, as being Iehovah, the eternall, immutable, and almighty God Isa. 44. 6, having his Be [...]ng in and of himself Exod. 3. 14., & giving being to all his words Exod. [...]. 3 & works Act. 17. 24. 28.; and that he is a God in Co [...]ena [...]t. as with Israel of old, so with all his people Gen. 17. 7 with Rom. 3. 29 who, as he brought them out of their bondage in Aegypt, so he delivereth us from our spir [...]tuall thraldom Luk [...]. 74. 75; and that therefore we are bound to take him for our God alone, and to keep all his Com­mandemnets 1 Pet. [...]. 1 [...] 16, 17, 18 Lev 18. 30 Lev. 19. 31.

Q. What is the summe of the foure Com­mandements, which containe 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 strength, and with all our minde Luk. 10. 27.

Q Which is the first Commandement?

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

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

A. The duties required in the first Com­mandment, are, the knowing & acknow­ledging of God to be the only true God, and our God 1 Chr. 28. 9 Deut. 26. 17 Isai. 43. 10 Ier. 14. 22; and to worship & glorifie him accordingly Psal. 95. 6, 7 Mat. 4. 10 Psal. 29. 2, by thinking Mal. 3. 16, medi­tating Psal. 63. 6, remembring Eccles 12. 1, highly esteem­ing Psal. 71. 19, honouring Mal. 1. 6, adoring Isa. 45. 23, chusing Iosh. 24 15, 22, loving Deut. 6. 5, desiring Psal. 73. 25, fearing of him Isai 8. 13, believing him Exod. 14 31, trusting Isai 26. 4, hoping Psal. 130. 7, de­lighting Psal. 37. 4, rejoycing in him Psal. 32. 11, being zealous for him Rom. 12. 11 with Num. 25. 11, calling upon him, gi­ving all praise and thanks Phil. 4. 6, and yeelding all obedience and submission to him, with the whole man Ier 7. 23 Iam. 4. 7., being carefull in all things to please him 1 Ioh. 3. 22, and sorrowfull when in any thing he is offended Ier. 31. 18 Psal. 119. 15, and walking humbly with him Mich. 6. 8.

Q. What are the sins forbidden in the [Page 105] first Commandement?

A. The sinnes forbidden in the first Commandement, are, Atheism in de­nying, or not having a God Psal. 14. 1 Ephes. 2. 12; Idolatry, in having, or worshipping more Gods then one, or any with, or instead of the true God Ier. 2 27, 28 with 1 Thes. 1, 9; the nor having and avouch­ing him for God, and our God Psal. 81, 11: the omission or neglect of any thing due to him required in this Comman­dement Isai 43. 22 23, 24, ignorance Ier. 4. 22 Hos. 4. 1, 6, forgetfulnesse Ier 2. 32, misapprehensions Acts 17. 23 29, false opinions Isai 40. 18, un­worthy, and wicked thoughts of him Psal. 10. 21, bold and curious searching into his se­crets Deut. 29. 29; all prophanenesse Tit. 1. 16 Heb. 12 6, hatred of God Rom. 1. [...], self-love 2 Tim. 3 [...], self-seeking Phil. 2. 21, and all other inordinate & immoderate set­ting of our mind, will, or affections upon other things, and taking them off from him in whole or in part 1 Ioh. 2. 15, 16 1 Sam. 2. 29 Col 3. 25; vain creduli­ty 1 Ioh. 4. 1, unbeliefe Deut. 10. 6 24 Heb 3. 12, heresie Gal. 5. 21 Tit. 3. 10, misbelief Acts 26. 9, distrust Psal. 78. 22, despair Gen. 4 13, incorrigiblenesse Ier. 5. [...]3, insensiblenesse under Iudgments Isai 42. 25, hard­nesse of heart Rom. 2 5, pride Ier. 13. 15, presumption Psal. 19. 13, carnall security Zeph. 1. 12, tempting of God Mat 4. 7, using unlawfull means Rom. 3. 8, and trusting in lawfull means Ier. 1 [...]. [...], carnall delights and joyes 2 Tim. 3. 4: corrupt, blind, and indiscreet zeal, luke-warmnesse, and dead­nesse in the things of God; estranging our selves, and apostarizing from God, praying, or giving any religious worship [Page 106] to Saints, Angels, or any other crea­tures Rom. 10. 13▪ 14 Hos. 4. 12 Acts 10. 25, 26 Rev. 19. 10 Mat. 4. 10 Col. 2. 18 Rom. 1. 25., all compacts, and consulting with u Gal. 4. 17 Iohn 16. 2 Rom. 10. 2 Luk. 9 54, 55 the devil Lev, 20. 6 1. Sam▪ 28. 7 11. with 1 Chr. 10. 13, 14, and hearkning to his sug­gestions Acts 5. 3, making men the Lords of our faith and Conscience 2 Cor. 1. 24 Mat▪ 23 9; slighting and de­spising w. Rev. 3. 16 God, and his Commands Deut. 32. 15 2. Sam. 12. 9 Prov. 13 13, resiss­ing x Rev. 3. 1 and grieving of his spirit Acts 7 51 Eph 4. 30; discon­tent, y Ezek 14. 5 Isai. 1 4. 5 and impatience at his dispensations, charging him foolishly for the evils hee inflicts on us Psal. 73. 2. 3 14, 15, 22 Iob 1. 22; and ascribing the praise of any good we either are, have, or can doe, to fortune 1 Sam. 6. 7 8, 9., Idols Dan. 5 23, our selves Deut 8. 17 Dan. 4. 30, or any other creature Hab. 1. 16.

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

A. These words before me, or before my face, in the first Commandement, teach us, that God who seeth all things, takes speciall 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. Ps. 44. 20, 21: as also to perswade us to doe, as in his sight, what ever we doe in his service 1 Chr. 2. 8, 9.

Q Which is the second Commande­ment?

A. The second Commandement is, T [...]ou shalt not make unto thee any gra­ven image, or any likenesse of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water un­der [Page 107] the earth; thou shalt not bow down to them nor serve them: for I the Lord thy God am a iealous 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 kèep my Commandements Exod. 20 4, 5, 6.

Q What are the duties required in the second Commandement?

A. The duties required in the second Commandement, 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 Mat. 28 20 Acts 2. 42 1 Tim. 6 13 14, par­ticularly, Prayer and Thanksgiving in the name of Christ Phil 4. 6 Eph, 5 20, the reading, preach­ing, and hearing of the Word Deut. 17. 10, 19 Acts 15. 21 2 Tim, 4, 2 Iam, 1. 21, 22 Acts 10. 33, the ad­ministration and receiving of the Sacra­ments Mat. 28, 19 1 Cor, 11. 23 to 30: Church-government and Discipline Mat 18. 15, 16, 17 Mar. 16, 19 1 Cor, 5 ch. 1 Cor. 12. 28: the Ministery, and maintenance thereof Eph 4 11 12 1 Tim, 5. 16 17 1 Cor, 9. 7, to 15.: religious fasting Ioel 2. 12, 13. 1 Cor, 7. 5, swearing by the name of God Deut, 6, 13., and vowing unto him Isai, 19. 21 Psal. 76. 11: As also the disapproving, detesting, opposing all false worship Acts 17. 16 17 Psal, 16, 4: and, according to each ones place and calling, removing it, and all monuments of Idolatry Deut, 7. 5 Isai 30 22.

Q What are the sinnes forbidden in the second Commandement?

A. The sinnes forbidden in the second Commandement, are, all devising Num. 15. 39, counselling Deut. 13. 6 7. 8, commanding Hos 5. 11 Mich, 6. 16, using 1 King. 10. 33., & [Page 108] any waies approving any religious wor­ship not instituted by God himselfe Deut. 12 30, 31, 32; tolerating a false Religion Deut. 13. 6 to 12. Zech. 13. 2, 3. Rev. 2. 2, 14, 15, 20 Rev. 17. 12, 16, 17; the making any representation of God, of all, or of any of the three Persons, either inwardly in our minde, or outwardly, in any kind of Image or likenesse of any creature whatsoever Deut. 4. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 Acts 17. 29 Rom. 1. 21, 22, 23, 25, all worshipping of it Dan. 3. 18 Gal. 4. 8, or God in it, or by it Exo. 32. 5, 8; the making of any representation of feigned Deities, and all worship of them, or service belong­ing to them 1 Kings 18. 26, 28. Isai 65, 11.; all superstitious devices Acts 17. 22 Col. 2. 21, 22, 23, corrupting the worship of God Mal. 1. 7. 8. 14, adding to it, taking from it Deut. 4. 2., whether invented and taken up of our selves Ps. 106. 39, or received by tradition from others Mat. 15. 9, though under the title of antiquity 1 Pet. 1. 18, custom Ier. 44. 17, devoti­on Isa. 65. 3, 4, 5 Gal. 1. 13, 14, good intent, or any other pretence whatsoever 1 Sam. 13 11, 12 1 Sam. 5. 21, simony Acts 8. 18, sacriledge Rom. 2. 22 Mal. 3. 8, all neglect Ex. 4. 25. 26, contempt Mat. 22 5 Mal. 1. 7. 13, hindering Mat. 23. 13, and opposing the Worship and Ordinances which God hath appointed Acts 13 44, 45 1 Thes. 2. 15 16.

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

A. The Reasons annexed to the second Commandement, the more to enforce it, contained in these words [For I the Lord thy God am a iealous 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, & keep my Commandements: Ex 20. 5, 6] are, beside Gods [Page 109] soveraignty over us, & property in us Psal. 45. 11 Rev. 15. 3. 4; his fervent zeal for his own worship Exod. 34 13, 14., & his revengfull indignation against all false worship, as being a spirituall whor­dom 1 Cor. 10 20, 21, 22 Ier. 7. 18, 19 20 Ezek. 16. 26 27 Deut. 22. 16 17, 18, 19, 20; accounting the breakers of this Commandement such as hate him, and threatning to punish them unto divers generations Hos. 2, 2, 3. 4, and esteeming the obser­vers of it such as love him, and keep his Commandements, and promising mercy to them unto many generations Deut. 5. 29.

Q. Which is the third Commandement?

A. The third Commandement is, 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 Exod. 20. 7.

Q. What is required in the third Com­mandement?

A. The third Commandement re­quires, that the Name of God, his titles, attributes Mat. 6. 9 Deut. 28. 58 Psal. 29. 2 Psal. 6. 4 Rev. 15. 3, 4, ordinances Mal. 1. 14 Eccles. 5. 1, the word Psal. 138. 2., Sacraments 1 Cor. 11. 24, 25, 28, 29, prayer 1 Tim. 2. 8, oaths Ier. 4. 2, vowes Eccl. 5. 2. 4 5, 6, lots Acts 1. 24, 26, his works Iob 36. 24., & whatsoever else there is whereby he makes himself known, be holily and reverently used in thought Mal. 3. 16, meditation Psal. 8 throughout., word Col. 3. 17 Psal. 105. 2. 5, writing Ps. 102. 1 [...], by an holy profession 1 Pet. [...]. 15 Mic▪ 4. 5, and answerable con­versation Phil. 1. 27, to the glory of God 1 Cor. 10. 31, and the good of our selves Ier. 32. 39 and others 1 Pet. 2. 1 [...].

Q. What are the sinnes forbidden in the third Commandement?

A. The sinnes forbidden in the third [Page 110] Commandement, are, the not using of d Mal 2 2 Gods name as is required; and the a­buse of it, in an ignorant Acts 17. 23, vain Pro 30 9, irreve­rent, profane Mal. 1. 6, [...]. 12 Mal 3 14, superstitious 1 Sam. 4. 3, 4, 5. Ier 7 4, 9, 10. 14. 31 Col. 2. 20, 21 22. or wick­ed mentioning o [...] otherwise using his ti­tles, attributes 2 King 18. 30, 35 Exod 5 2 Psal. 139. 10, ordinances Ps. 50. 16, 17 or works Isa 5. 12.; by blasphemy 2 Kin. 19. 22 Lev. 24. 11, perjury Zech 5 4 Zech. 8 17: all sinful cur­sings 1 Sam 1 [...] 43 2 Sam. 16. 5, oaths Ier. 5. 7 Ier 23. 10▪, vows Deut 23. 18 Acts 23. 12 14. and lots Esth 3. 7 Esth. 9. 24 Psal. 22. 18, viola­ting of our oaths, and vows, if lawfull Psal. 24. 4 Ezek. 17. 16 18, 19; and fulfilling them, if of things unlaw­full [...]a. 6. [...]6. 1 Sam. 25. 23 33, 34; murn [...]uring and quarrelling at Rom. 9. 14 19, 20, curious prying into Deut. 29. 29, and misapplying of Gods decrees Rom 3. 5, 7 Rom 6. 1, and providences Eccl 8. 11 Eccles. 9. 3 Psal 39. through [...]ut., misinterp [...]ting Mat. 5. 21 to the end, misapplying Ezek. 13. 22., or any way perv [...]rting the wo [...]d, or any part of it 2 Pet 3. 16. Mat. 22. 2 [...]. to 31, to pro [...]ane jests Isa 22. 13. Ier 23, 34. 36. 38., curious or unpro­fitable questions, vain janglings, or the maintaining of false Doctrines 1 Tim. 1. 4. 6, [...]. 1 Tim. 6. 4, 5. 20. 2 Tim. 2. 14 Tit 3 9; abu­si [...]g it, the creatures or any thing con­tained under the name of God, to charms Deut 18. 10, 11, 12, 13, 14. Acts 19. 13., or sinful lusts and practises 2 Tim. 4. 2. 4. Rom. 13 13. 14. 1 Kin. 21. 9. 10. Iude v 4, the malig­ning Acts 1: 16 1 Iohn 3 12., scorning Psal. 1. 1. 2 Pet 3▪ 5., reviling 1 Pet. 4 4, or any ways opposing of Gods truth, grace, and wayes Acts 13. 45 [...]6. 50. Acts 4. 18. Acts. 19. 9. 1 Th. 2. 16 Heb. 10. 29., making profession of Relgion in hypocrisie, or for sinister ends 1 Tim. 3. 5. Mat. 23. 14. Mat. 6. 1. 2. 5. 16., be­ing ashamed of it Mar. 8. 38., or a shame to it, [Page 111] by uncomfortable Psal. 73 14 15, unwife 1 Cor, 6. 5, 6 Eph. 5. 15, 16 17, unfruit­full Isa 5. 4 2 Pet 1. 8. 9, and offensive walking Rom. 2. 23 24, or back­sliding from it Gal 3. 1. 3 Heb. 6. 6.

Q What Reasons are annexed to the third Commandement?

A. The Reasons annexed to the third Commandement in these words [the LORD thy GOD] and [for the LORD will not hold him guiltiesse that taketh his name in vain Exod. 20. 7] are, be­cause he is the LORD & our GOD; and therfore his name is not to be profaned, or any way abused by us Levit. 19. 12; especially, because he will be so far from acquitting and sparing the transgressours of this Commandement, as that he will not suffer them to escape his righteous judgement Ezek. 36. 21 22, 23 Deut. 28. 58 59 Zech. 5. 2, 3, 4, albeit many such escape the censures & punishments of men 1 Sam. 2 12. 1 [...]. 22, 24 with 1 Sam 3. [...]3.

Q. Which is the fourth Commandment?

A. The fourth Commandement 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 worke, thon, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy man-servant, nor thy maid-servant, nor thy cattell 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 x Exod. 20 8 9, 10, 11 it x.

Q. What is required in the fourth [Page 112] Commandement.

A▪ The fourth Commandement 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, & so to con­tinue to the end of the world; which is the Christian Sabbath Deut. 5. 12 13, 14 Gen. 2. 2. 3 1 Cor. 16. 1, 2 Acts 20. 7 Mat. 5 17, 18 Isa. 56, 24, 6, 7., and in the New Testament called the Lords day Rev 1. 10.

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, not only from such works as are at all times sinfull, but even from such world [...]y imployments & recreations as are on o­ther dayes lawfull Exod. 16 25. 26. 27, 28 Neh 13, 15 16, 17, 18, 19 21, 22 Ier. 17. 21, 22; 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 1 to 13) in the publick & private exercises of Gods worship Isa 58. 13 Luk. 4. 16 Acts 20. 7 1 Cor. 16. 1, 2 Psal. 92. title Isa. 66 23 Lev. 23. 3: and to that end we are to prepare our hearts, & with such foresight, diligence and moderation to dispose, and seasona­bly to dispatch our wordly busines, that we may be the more free and fit for the duties of that day Exod. 2. 8 Luk. 23. 54, 55 Exod. 16. 22 25, 26, 29. Neh. 13. 19.

Q. Why is the charge of keeping the Sab­bath more specially directed to governours [Page 113] of families and other superiours?

A. The charge of keeping the Sabbath is more specially directed to governours of families, & other superiours, because they are bound not only to keep it them­selves, but to see that it be observed by al those that are under their charge; and because they are prone oft-times to hin­der them by imployments of their own Exod. 20. 10 Iosh. 24. 15 Neh 13. 15 17 Ier. 17. 20, 21 22 Exod. 23. 12

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

A. The sins forbidden in the fourth Commandement, are, all omissions of the duties required Ezek. 22. 26, all carelesse, negli­gent, and unprofitable performing of them, & being weary of them Act. 20. 7, 9 Ezek. 33. 30 31 32 Amos 8. 5 Mal. 1. 13▪, all, pro­faning the day by idlenes & doing that which is in it self sinful Ezek. [...]3. 38, & by al needles works, words, and thoughts about our worldly imployments & recreations Ier. 17. 24 27 Isa 58. 13.

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

A. The Reasons annexed to the fourth Commandement the more to enforce it, are taken from the equity of it, God al­lowing us six dayes of seven for our own affairs, & reserving but one for himself, in these words, [Six day [...]s shalt thou labour and do all thy work Exod. 20. 9;] from Gods challenging a speciall property in that day, [The seventh day is the Sabbath of the LORD thy [Page 114] GOD Exod. 20. 10] from the example of God, who in six dayes made heaven & earth the sea and all that in them is, & rested the seventh day; & from that blessing which God put upon that day, not only in sanctifying it to be a day for his ser­vice, but in ordaining it to be a means of blessing to us in our sanctifying it; [Wherfore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it Rom 20. 11.

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

A. The word Remember is set in the beginning of the fourth Commande­ment Exod. 20. 8 partly because of the great bene­fit of remembring it; we being thereby helped in our preparation to keep it Exod 16, 23 Luk 23. 54 56 with Mar. 15. 42 Neh 13. 9, and in keeping it, better to keep all the rest of the Commandements Psal. 92 title with vers. 13. 14 Ezek. 20, 12. 19. 20, and to continue a thankful remembrance of the two great benefits of Creation, and Re­demption, which contain a short abridg­ment of Religion Gen. 2. 2, 3 Isai. 1. 8, 22 24 with Acts 4. 10, 11 Rev. 1. 10: and partly because we are very ready to forget it Ezek. 21. 26, for that there is lesse light of nature for it Neh. 6. 14., and yet it restraineth our naturall liberty in things at other times lawful Exod. 34. 21; that it commeth 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 for it, or to sanctifie it Deut. 5. 14 15 Amos 8. 5; and that Sathan with [Page 115] his instruments much labour to blot out the glory, and even the memory of it, to bring in all irreligion and impiety Iam. 1. 7 [...]er. 17. 21, 22 23 Neh. 13. 15 to 25.

Q. What is the summe of the six Comman­dements which containe 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 to do to others what we would have them do to us Mat. 7. 12.

Q. Which is the fifth Commandement?

A. The fifth Commandement is, Honour thy Father and thy mother, t [...]at thy dayes may be long upon the land which the LORD thy GOD giveth thee Exod. 20. 4.

Q. Who a [...]e meant by Father and Mother, in the fifth Commandement?

A By Father and Mother, in the fifth Commandement are meant not only naturall parents Prov. 23. 22 Eph 6. 1, 2, but all Superi­ours in age 1 Tim. 5. 1, 2 and gifts Gen. 420. 21, 22. Gen. [...]5. 8, and especially such as by GODS ordinance are over us in place of authority, whether in Family 2 Kin 5. 13, Church 2 Kin 2. 12 2 Kin 13. 14 Gal. 4. 19, or Common­wealth Isa 49. 23▪.

Q. Why are Superiours styled Father and Mother?

A. Superiours are styled Father and Mother, both to each them in all duties towards their Inferiours, like naturall [Page 116] parents to expresse love and tendernesse to them; according to their severall re­lations Eph. 6. 4 2 Cor. 12. 14 1 Thes. 2. 7 8. 11 Nu. 1 [...], 11, 12, and to worke inferiours to a greater willingnesse & chearfullnesse in performing their duties to their Superi­ours as to their parents 1 Cor. 4. 14 15, 16 2 Kings 5 13.

Q. What is the generall scope of the fifth Commandement?

A. The generall scope of the fifth Commandement, is, the performance of those duties which we mutually owe in our severall relations, as Inferiours, Su­periours, Equals Eph. 5. 21 2 Pet. 2. 17 Rom. 12. 10.

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 Lev. 19. 3, word Pro. 31. [...]8 1 Pet. 3. 6, and behavi­our L [...]v▪ 19: [...]2 1 King, 2. 19; prayer, & thanskgiving for them 1 Tim. 2. 1, 2, imitation of their vertues and graces Heh. 13. 7 Phil. 3. 17: willing obedience to their lawfull com­mands and counsells Ephes. 6. 1, 2 5. 6, 7 1 Pet. 2. 13, 14 Rom. 13. 1, 2 3, 4, 5 Heb: 13. 17: Prov. 4. 3. 4 Prov. 23. 22 Exod. 18. 19 24, due submission to their corrections Heb. 12. 9 1 Pet 2. 18 19, 20, fidelity to Tit. 2. 9. 10, defence 1 Sam. 26 19, 16 2 Sam, 18. 3 Esth. 6. 2 and maintenance of their persons & au­thority, according to their severall ranks and the nature of their places Mat. 22. 21 Rom. 13. 6. 7 1. Tim. 5. 17 18 Gal. 6. 6 Gen 45. 11 Gen. 47. 12: bearing with their infirmities and covering them in love 1 Pet. 2. 18. Prov. 23. 22 Gen. 9. 23, that so they may be an honour to them and to their government Psal. 127 3, 4, 5 Prov. 31 23.

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

A. The sinnes of Inferiours against [Page 117] their Superiours, are, all neglect of the duties required toward them Mat. 15. 4. 5, 6▪: en­vying at Num. 11 28, 29, contempt of 1 Sam. 8. 7 Isa. 3, 5, and rebelli­on 2 Sam. 15 1, to 22 against their persons Exod. 22. 15 and places 1 Sam. 10. 27 in their lawfull counsells 1 Sam. 22. 25, commands, and corrections Deut. 21. 18 19, 20, 21; cursing, mocking Prov. 30. 11 17, and all such refractory and scandalous carriage, as proves a shame and dishonor to them and their government Prov. 19. 26.

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 Tit. 2. 4, pray for 1 Sam, 12. 22 Iob 1. 5, and blesse their inferiours Kni: 8. 55, 56 Heb. 7. 7 Gen. 49. 28; to instruct Deut. 6. 6, 7, coun­sell, and admonish them Eph. 6. 4: countenan­cing 1 Pet. 3. 7, commanding 1 Pet. 2. 14 Rom. 13. 3, and rewarding such as doe well Esth. 6. 3: discountenancing Rom 13. 3, 4, reproving, and chastising such as do ill Prov. 29. 15 1 Pet. 2. 14, protecting Iob 29. 1 [...] 13, 14, 15, 16, 17 Isa. 1. 10. 17, and providing for them all things necessary for soule Eph. 6. 4 and body 1 Tim. [...]. 8: and by grave, wise, holy, and exemplary carriage, to procure glory to God 1 Tim. 4. 12 Tit. 2, 3, 4, 5, ho­nour to themselves 1 King. 3. 28., and so to preserve that authority which God hath put upon them Tit. 2. 25.

Q. What are the sinnes of Superiours?

A. The sinnes of Superiours are, be­side the neglect of the duties required of them Ezek. 34 2, 3, 4, an inordinate seeking of them­selves Phil. 2. 21, their own glory Ioh. 5. 24 Iohn. 7. 18, ease, profit, or [Page 118] pleasure Isa. 56. 10 11 Deut 1 [...]. 17, commanding things unlaw­full D [...]n, 3. 4. 5. 6 Act. 4. 17 18, or not in the power of inferiours to perform Exod. 5. 10 to 18 Mat. 23 1. 4, counselling Mat 14. 8 with Mar 6 24, encoura­ging 1 Sam. 13▪ 28, or favouring them in that which is evill 1 Sam. 3. 13, disswading, discouraging, or discountenancing them in that which is good Ioh. 7. 46 47, 48, [...]9 Col 3. 21 Exod. 5. 17: correcting them unduly 1 Pet, 2. 18 19, 20 Heb. 12. 10 Deut. 2 [...]. 3, care­les exposing or leaving them to wrong, temptation, and danger Gen. 38. 11 26 Acts 18. 17, provoking them to wrath; or any way dishonou­ring themselves, or lessening their au­thority, by an unjust, indis [...]reet, rigo­rous or remisse behaviour Gen 9, 21 1 Kin. 12, 13 14, 15, 16 1 Kin 1, 6 1 Sam. 2. 29 30 31.

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, in giving honour to go one before ano­ther Rom. 10. 10, and to rejoyce in each others gifts and advancement as in their own Rom. 12 15, 16 Phil 2. 3, 4 [...] Eph 6. 4.

Q. What are the sins of equals?

A. The sins of equals are, beside the neglect of the duties required Rom, 13. 8, the un­dervaluing of the worth 2 Tim 3. 3, envying the gifts Act. 7. 9 Ga 5. 26, grieving a [...] the advancement or prosperity, one of another Num. 12. 2 Esth. [...]. 12. 13, and usurp­ing preheminence one over another 3 Ioh. v. 9 Luk. 22. 24.

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

A. The reason annexed to the fifth Commandement, in th [...]se words, That thy dayes may be long upon the [Page 119] land which the Lord thy God giveth thee Ex [...]. 20 12, is an expresse promise of long life and prosperity, as far as it shal serve for Gods glory, and their own good, to all such as keep this commandement Deut. 5. 10 1 Kin. 8. 25. Eph. 6. 2. 3..

Q. Which is the sixth Commandement?

A. The sixt Commandement is, Thou shalt not kill Exo. 20. 13.

Q. What are the duties required i [...] the sixth Commandement.

A. The duties required in the sixth Commandement, are, all carefull stu­dies and lawfull endeavours to preserve the life of our selves Eph. 5. 28, 29. and othe [...]s 1 Kin. 18. 4; by re­sisting all thoughts, and purposes Ier. 26. 15, 16. Acts 23. 12, 16, 17, 21 27., sub­duing all passions Eph. 4. 26, 27, & avoyding all oc­casions 2 Sa. 2. 22 Deut. 22. 8., temptations Mat. 4. 6. 7 Pro. 1. 10, 11 15, 16., and practises, which tend to the unjust taking away the life of any 1 Sa. 24. 12. 1 Sam. 26. 9, 10, 11.; by just defence thereof against violence Psal. 82. 4. Pro. 24, 11, 12. 1 Sam. 14. 45, patient bearing of the hand of God Iam. 5. 7, 8. 9, 10, 11. Heb. 12. 9., quietnes of minde 1 Thes 4. 11 1 Pet. 3. 4. Psal. 37. 8. 9 10, 11.; chearfulnesse of spirit Pro. 17. 22▪, a sober use of meat Prov. 25, 16, 27, drink 1 Tim 523, physick Psal 38 21, sleep Psal. 12 [...]. 2, labor Eccl. 5. 12 2 Th. 3 10. 11 Pro. 1 [...] 2, & recreations Eccl. 3 4, 11.: by charitable thoughts 1 Sa. 19▪ [...] 5. 1 Sa. 22. 13, 14, love Ro 13. 10,, compassion Lu. 10 33, 34, 35, meeknesse gentle­nesse, kindnesse Col. 3 12 13, peaceable, Iam. 3. 17 mild, and courteous speeches & behaviour 1 Pet. 3, 8, 9, 10, 11. Prov. 15. 1 Iude v. 1, 2, 3. 4., for­bearance, readines to be reconciled, pa­tient bearing and forgiving of injuries, and requiting good for evil Mat. 5. 24, Eph 4. 2 32. Rom 12. 17. 20. 21, comfort­ing [Page 120] and succouring the distressed, & pro­tecting and defending the innocent 1 The. 5. 14. Iob 31 19. 20 Mat 25. 35. 36 Pro. 31. 8. 9..

Q. What are the sinnes forbidded in the sixth Commandement?

A. The sinnes forbidden in the sixth Commandement, are, all taking away the life of our selves Acts 16. 28, or of others Gen. 9. 6, except in case of publick justice Nu. 35. 31, 33, law­full warre Ier. 48. 10 Deut. 20. ch., or necessary defence Ex. 22. 2, 3; the neglecting or withdrawing the lawfull and necessary means of preservation of life Mat. 25. 42. 43. Iam. 2. 15 16 Ecc. 6. 1. 2, sinfull anger Mat. 5, 22, hatred 1 Ioh. 3. 15 Lev. 19. 17, envy Prov. 14. 30, de­sire of revenge Rom. 12. 19, all excessive passions Eph. 4. 31, distracting cares Mat. 6. 31, 34, immoderate use of meat, drink Luk. 21. 34 Rom. 13, 13, labour Eccl. 12. 12 Eccl. 2. 22. 23, & recreations Isa. 5. 12. provoking words Prov. 15, 1 Prov. 12. 18., oppression Ezek. 18. 18 Exod. 1. 14, quar­relling Gal. 5. 15 Prov. 23. 29, striking, wounding Num. 35. 16. 17, 18, 21, & what­soever else tends to the destruction of the life of any Exod, 21. 18 to the end..

Q. Which is the seventh Commandement?

A. The seventh Commandement is, Thou shalt not commit adultery Exod 20. 14.

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

A. The duties required in the seventh Commandement, are, Chastity in body, mind, affections 1 Thes. 4. 4 Iob 21. 1 1 Cor. 7. [...]4, words Col. 4. 6, and beha­viour 1 Pet. 3. 2, and the preservation of it in our selves and others 1 Cor. 7. 2 35. 36, watchfulnesse over the eyes, & all the senses Iob 31. 1 [...] [...] 5 24. 24 25 f Prov. 2. [...] 10 21 [...]. Tim. 2, 9., temperance, keeping of chast company f, modesty in apparell g, marriage by those that have [Page 121] not the gift of continency 1 Cor. 7. 9. 2; conjugall love Prov. 5, 19. 20, and cohabitation 1 Pet. 3. 7, diligent la­bour in our callings, shunning all occa­sions of uncleannesse, and resisting tem­ptations thereunto Prov. 5. 8 Gen. 39 8, 9 10..

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

A. The sinnes forbidden in the se­venth Commandement, beside the neg­lect of the duties required Prov. 5. 7, are, adulte­ry, fornication Heb 13. 4 Gal. 5. 19, rape, incest 2 Sam. 13. 14 1 Cor. 5. 1, sodomy, and all unnaturall lusts Rom. 1. 24 26. 27. Lev. 20. 15. 16, all unclean imaginations, thoughts, purposes and affections Mat. 5. 28 Mat. 15. 19 Col. 3 5; all corrupt or filthy commu­nications, or listening thereunto Eph. 5, 3. 4 Pro. 7. 5 21. 22.: wan­ton looks Isa. 3. 16 2 Pet 2. 14, impudent or light behavi­our: immodest apparrell Prov. 7. 10. i;, prohibiting of lawfull 1 Tim. 4. 3, and dispensing with unlaw­full marriages Lev. 18. [...] to 21. Mar 6 18. Mat 2. 11 12, allowing, tollerating, keeping of stewes, and resorting to them 1 Kin. 15. 12 2 Kin 23 7 Deut 23. 17 18. Le, 19, 29 Ier, 5, 7▪ Prov. 7, 24 25, 26, 2 7; intangling vows of single life Mat. 19. [...]0, 11; undue delay of marriage 1 Cor. 7. 7, 8 9. Gen. 38, 26: having more wives or husbands then one, at the same time Mal. 2, 14▪ 15, Ma [...] 19, 5, unjust divorce Mal. 2. [...]6 Mat 5. 32. or desertion 1 Cor 7. 12. 13. [...] Ezek. 16. 49. Prov 23. 30, 33: idl [...]nesse, gluttony, drunkennessee, un­chast company Gen. 39 10. Prov. 5, 8,, lascivious songs, books pictures, dancings, stage-playes Ephes 5. 4 Ezek 23, 14, 2 [...], 16 Isa 23, 14. 15, 16, 17 Isa. 3, 16, Mark 6, 22, Rom 13, 13 [...], and all other provocations to, or acts of un­cleannes either in our selves or others 2 Kin 9. 30, with Ier 4: 30, and Ezek 23, 40.,

Q. Which is the eighth Commandement?

A. The eighth Commandement, is, Thou shalt not steal Exo. 20. 15.

Q What are the duties required in the eighth Commandement?

A. The duties required in the eighth Commandment, are, truth, faithfulnesse, and justice in contracts, and commerce between man and man Psa. 15, 2, 4 Zech. 7. 4, 20 Zec. 8. 16, 17; rendering to every one his due Rom. 13. 7: restitution of goods unlawfully detained from the right ow­ners thereof Lev. 6 2, 3. 4 5. with Luk. 19. 8, giving and lending free­ly, according to our abilities, & the ne­cessities of others Luk. 6. 30 38. 1 Ioh. 3 17. Eph. 4 28. Gal. 6. 10, moderation of our judgments, wills, and affections, con­cerning worldly goods 1 Tim. 6. 6 7, 8, 9 Gal 6. 14: a provident care & study to get 1 Tim. 5. 8, keep, use, & dis­pose those things which are necessary & convenient for the sustentation of our nature, & sutable to our condition Pro. 17. 23 to the end. Eccl. 2. 24 Eccl. 3. 12, 13 1 Tim 6. 17 18. Isai. 38. 1 Mat. 11, 8, a lawfull calling 1 Cor 7. 20 Gen. 2. 15 Gen. 31, 9, and diligence in it Eph. 4. 28 Prov. 10. 4: frugality Ioh. 6. 12 Prov. 21. 20, avoyding unnecessary Law suits 1 Cor. 6. 1 10 9, & suretiship, or other like en­gagements Pro. 6. 1 to 6. Pro. 11 15, and an endeavour by all just & lawfull means, to procure, pre­serve & further, the wealth & outward estate of others, as well as our own Lev. 25. 35 Deut. 22. 1, 2 3, 4. Ex. 23 4 5. Gen. 4. 14, 20 Phil. 2. 4 Mat. 22, 39.

Q. What are the sinnes forbidden in the eighth Commandement?

A. The sins forbidden in the eighth Commandement, beside the neglect of the duties required Iam. 2. 15, 16., are, theft 1 Ioh. 3. 17 Eph 4, 28., rob­bery [Page 123] Psil: 62. 10▪, man stealing 1 Tim. 1. 10, & receiving any thing that is stolen Prov. 29. 14 Psal. 50. 18, fraudulent deal­ing 1 Thes. 4. 6, false weights and measures Prov. 11. 1 Prov. 20 10., re­moving land-marks Deut. 19 14 Prov. 23. 10.; injustice and un­faithfulnesse in contracts between man and man Amos 8. 5 Psal 32. 21 or in matters of trust Luk. 16, 10, 11, 12: op­pression Ezek. 22. 29 Lev. 25. 17▪, extortion Mat. 23. 25▪ Ezek. 22. 12▪, usury Psal. 15. 5, bribery Iob 15, 34, vexations, law suits 1 Cor. 6. 6 7. 8 Prov. 3 29, 30, unjust inclosures, & depopulations Isa. 5. 8. Mic. 2. 2, ingrossing commo­dities to enhance the price Prov. 11. 26, unlawfull callings Acts 19 19. 21. 25, and all other unjust or sinfull wayes of taking, or witholding from our neighbor what belongs to him, or of en­riching our selves Iob 20. 19 Iames 5. 4 Prov. 21. 6.: coveteousnesse Luk. 12 15, in­ordinate prizing and affecting worldly goods 1 Tim. 6. 5 Col 3. 2 Prov 23, 5 Psal. 62 10, distrustful, & distracting cares & studies in getting, keeping, & using them Mat. 6. 25 31. 34, envying at the prosperity of others Psal. 75; Psal. 37. 1, 2: as likewise idlenesse 2 Thes. 3, 11 Prov. 18. 9, prodigality, wast­full gaming, & all other wayes whereby we doe unduly prejudice our own out­ward estate Prov. 21. 7 Prov, 23. 20 21 Prov. 28. 19: nd defrauding our selves of the due use and comfort of that estate which God hath given us Eccl 4. 8 Eccl. 6. 25 1 Tim 5. 8.

Q. Which is the ninth Commandement?

A. The ninth Commandement is, Thou shalt not bear false witnesse a­gainst thy neighbour Exod 26. 16.

Q What are the duties required in the ninth Commandement?

A. The duties required in the ninth Commandement are, the preserving and [Page 124] promoting of truth between man and man Zach. 8. 16., and the good name of our neigh­bour as well as our own 3 Iohn v. 12: appearing, and standing for Prov. 31. 8. 9, and from the heart Psal. 15. 2, sin­cerely, 2 Chr. 19. 9 freely 1 Sam. 19, 4 5, clearly, Ios. 7. 19, and fully 2 Sam. 14. 18 19. 20, speaking the truth, and only the truth, in matters of judgement and justice Lev. 19, 15 Pro. 14. 5. 25, and in all other things whatsoever 2 Cor 1. 17, 18 Eph 4. 25; a chari­table esteem of our neighbours Heb. 6. 9 1 Cor 13. 7; loving desiring, and rejoycing in their good name Rom. 1. [...] 2 Iohn v. 4 3 Iohn v. 3. 4: sorrowing for 2 Cor. 2. 4 2 Cor. 12. 21, and covering of their infirmities Prov. 17. 9 1 Pet. 4. 8, freely acknowledging their gifts and graces 1 Cor. 1. 4 5. 7 2. Tim. 1, 4. 5, defending their innocency Sam. 22. 14, a ready receiving of a good report 1 Co. 13, 6, 7, and unwillingnesse to admit of an evil report concerning them Psal. 15, 3, discou­raging tale bearers Prov. 25. 23, flatterers Prov 26. 24, 25, and slanderers Psal, 101, 5; love and care of our, own good name, & defending it when need requireth Prov 22, 1 Iohn 8, 49, keeping of lawful promises Psal. 15. 4 studying and practising of whatsoever things are true, honest, lovely, and of good report Phil 4, 8.

Q. Wbat are the sinnes forbidden in the ninth Commandement?

A. The sinnes forbidden in the ninth Commandement, are all prejudicing the truth, and the good name of our neigh­bours as well as our own 1 Sam 17, 28 2 Sam. 16, 3 2 Sam. 1, 9 10, 15, 16, especially in publick judicature Lev. 19. 15 Heb, 1, 4, giving false evi­dence Prov, 19. 5 Prov. 6, 16 19, suborning false witnesses Acts 6. 13., wit­tingly appearing & pleading for an evil [Page 125] cause, outfacing and overbearing the truth, Ier. 93. 5 Acts 24. 2. 5 psal. 12. 34 ps. 52. 1. 2, 3, 4 passing unjust sentence Prov. 1 [...] ▪ [...]5 1 Kin. 21. 9 10. 11, 12, 1 [...], calling evil good, and good evil, rewarding the wicked according to the work of the righteous, & the righteous according to the work of the wicked Isa. 5. 23; forgery Ps. 19. 69 Luke 19. 8 Luk. 16. 5, 6, 7, con­cealing the truth, undue silence in a just cause Lev. 5. 1 Deut. 13. 8 Acts 5 3 8, 9 2 Tim. 4 16, and helding our peace when iniquity calls for either a reproof from our selves 1 King. 1. 6 Lev. 19. 17, or complaint to others Isa. 59. 4: speaking the truth unseasonably Prov. 29. 11, or maliciously to a wrong end 1 Sam. 22 9, 10. with Ps 52. 1, 2, 3 4, or perverting it to a wrong meaning Psal. 56. 5 p Iohn 2. 19 With Mat. 26 60. 61, or in doubt­full and equivocall expressions to the prejudice of truth or justice Gen. 3. 5 Gen 26. 7. 9, speaking untruth Isa. 59. 13, lying [...]ev. 19. 11 Col. 3. 9, slandering Ps. 50. 20, back-biting Ps. 15. 3, detracting Iames 4. 11 Ier. 38. 4, tale-bearing Lev. 19. 16, whispering Rom. 1. 29. 30, scoffing Gen. 21. 6 with Gal. 4. 29, reviling 1 Cor. 6. 10,, rash Mat. 7. 1, harsh Acts 28. 4., and partiall censuring Gen. 38. 24. Rom. 2. 1, miscon­struing intentions, words and actions Neh. 6. 6, 7, 8. Rom. 3. 8. P [...]. 69. 10, 1 Sam. 1. [...]3, 14, 15. 2 Sam 10. 3., flattering Psal. 12. 2, 3., vain glorious boasting 2 Tim. 3. 2., thinking or speaking too highly, or too meanly of our selves or others Luk. 18 19, 11. Rom. 12. 16. 1 Cor. 4, 6. Act. 12. [...] ▪ Exod. 4. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14., denying the gifts & graces of God Iob 27. 5, 6. Iob 4. 6., aggravating smaller faults Mat. 7. 3, 4, 5., hiding, excusing, or ex­tenuating of sins when called to a free confession Pro. 28. 13. and 30. 20. Gen. 3. 12. 13. Ier 2, 35. 2 Kin 5 25 Gen. 4. 9., unnecessary discovering of infirmities, Gen▪ 9. 12 prov. 25. 9, 10. raising false rumours Exod. 23. 1., re­ceiving [Page 126] & countenancing evil reports Prov. 29. 12, and stopping our eares against just de­fence Acts 7. 56 [...]7 Iob 31. 13, 14, evil suspition 1 Cor. 13. 5 1 Tim. 6. 4., envying or grie­ving at the deserved credit of any Num. 11. 2 [...] Mar. 21. 15, en­deavouring or desiring to impair it Esra 4. 12. 13, re­joycing in their disgrace and infamy Ier. 48. 27, scornful cōtempt Psal, 35 15 16, 21 Mat. 27. 28 29, fond admirations Iude v. 6 Act. 12. 22, breach of lawfull promises Rom. 1. 31 [...] Tim. 3. 3., neglecting such things as are of good report 1 Sam. 2. 4 24, and practising or not avoiding our selves, or not hindering what we can in others, such things as procure an ill name 2 Sam. 13 1, 13 Prov. 5. 8. 9 Prov. 6. 33.

Q. Which is the tenth Commandement?

A. The tenth Commandement 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 or nor his asse, nor any thing that is thy neighbours Exod. 20. 17.

Q. What are the duties required in the tenth Commandement?

A. The duties required in the tenth Commandement, are such a full con­tentment with our own condition b, and Heb. 13. 5 1 Tim. 6, 6 such a charitable frame of the whole soul toward our neighbour, as that all our inward motions and affections touching him tend unto and further all that good which is his Iob 31 29 Rom. 12 15 Psal. 122. [...]. 8. 9 1 Tim▪ 1. 5 Esth. 1 [...]. 3 1 Cor. 13. 4 5, 6, 7.

Q. What are the sinnes fo [...]bidden in the tenth Commandement?

A. The sins forbidden in the tenth Commandement, are, discontentment [Page 127] with our own estate 1 Kin. 2 1. 4 Est 5. 13 1 Cor. 10. 10, envying Gal. 5. 26 Iam 3. 14. 16 and grieving at the good of our neighbours Ps. 112. 9. 10 N [...]h. 2, 10, together with all inordinate motions and affections to any thing that is his Rom 7. 7, 8 Rom. 13. 9 Col. 3. 5 Deut. 5. 21.

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

A. No man is able either of himself Iames 3. 2 Iohn 15. 5 Rom. 8. 3, or by any grace received in this life, per­fectly to keep the Commandements of God Eccl. 7. 20 1 Ioh. 1. 8. 10 Gal. 5. 17 Ro. 7. 18, 19, but doth daily break them in thought Gen. 65 Gen. 8, 21, word, and deed Rom. 3. 9 to 21 Iam. 3. 2. [...]0 13.

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 se­verall aggravations, are more hainous in the sight of God then others Ioh. 19. 11 Ezek. 8. 6, 1 [...] ▪ 15, 1 Ioh. 5. 16. Ps. 78. 17 32. 56.

Q. What are those aggravations that make some sinnes more hainous then others?

A. Sins receive their aggravations, From the persons offending Ier, 2. [...], if they be of riper age Iob 32. 7, 9 Eccles 4. 13., greater experience, or grace 1. Kin. 11. 4 9▪: eminent for profession 2 Sam. 12. 14 1 Cor. 5. 1 gifts Iam. 4. 17 Luk. 12. 47 48, place Ier. 5. 4 5, office 2 Sam. 12. 7▪ 8. 9 Ezek. 8. 11. 12., guides to others Rom. 6. 17. to 25., and whose example is likely to be followed by others Gal. 2. 11. 12, 13, 14. 15 Mat. 22 38. 39.

From the parties offended x, if imme­diately against God 1 Sam, 2. 25. Act. 5. 4. Psal. 51. 4., his attributes Rom 2. 4. [Page 128] and worship Mal. 1. 8. 14▪, against Christ, and his grace Heb. 2. 2, 3 Heb. 12. 25, the holy Spirit Heb. 10. 29. Mat. 12. 31, 32, his witnes Eph. 4. 30, & workings Heb. 6. 4, 5; against superiours, men of eminency Iude v. 8 Num. 12. 8, 9. Isaiah 3 5, & such as we stand especially related & engaged unto Pro. 30. 17 2 Cor. 12 15 Psal. 55. 22, 13 14, 15., against any of the Saints Zeph. 2. 8. 10, 11. Mat [...]8. 6. 1 Cor. 6 8. Rev. 17. 6, particularly weak brethren 1 Cor. 8. 11, 12. Rom. 24 13, 15, 21, the souls of them or any other Ezek. 13. 19 1 Cor. 8. 12 Rev. 18. 13 Mat. 23. 15, and the common good of all or many 1 Thes. 2. 15 16. Iosh. 22. 20.

From the nature and quality of the of­fence Pro. 6. 30 to the end; if it be against the express let­ter of the Law Ezr. 9. 10, 11 12. 1 Kings 11. 9, 10▪, break many Comman­dements, contain in it many sins Col. 3. 5▪ 1 Tim. 6. 10 Pro. 5. 8, 9, 10 11, 12. Prov 6. 32, 33 Iosh. 7. 21, if not only conceived in the heart, but breaks forth in words and actions Iam. 1. 14, 15. Mat. 5. 22. Mic. 2. 1., scandalize others Mat. 18. 7. Rom. 2. 23, 24., and admit of no reparation Deut. 22. 22. with v. 28. 29. Pro 6. 32, 33, 34, 35.; if against means Mat. 11. 21, 22, 23, 24. Ioh. 15. 22., mercies Isai 13. Deut. 32. 6, judgements Amos 4. 8, to 12. Ier. 5. 3., light of nature Rom. 1 26, 27., conviction of consci­ence Rom. 1. 32. Dan. 5. 22. Tit. 3 10 11., publike or private admonition Pro. 29. 1., censures of the Church Tit. 3 10, Mat 18. 17, civill punish­ments Pro. 27. 22. Pro. 23. 25., and our own prayers, purposes, promises Ps. 78. 34, 35, 36. 37. Ier. 2. 20 Ier. 4 [...]. 5, 6, 20. 21., vows Eccl. 5. 4. 5, 6. Pro. 20. 25., covenants Lev. 26. 25., & engage­ments to God or men Pro. 2. 17 Ezek. 17. 18, 19, if done delibe­rately Ps. 36. 4., wilfully Ier. 6. 16., presumptiously Num. 15. 30. Ex. 21. 14., im­pudently Ier. 3, 3 Pro. 7. 13., boastingly Ps [...]l. 52. 1., maliciously 3 Ioh. v. 10., fre­quently Num. 14. 22., obstinately Zech. 7. 11, 12., with delight Pro. 2. 14., cōtinuāce Isai. 57., or relapsing after repētāce Ier. 34. 8, 9, 10, 11. [...] Pet. [...]. 20, 21, 22..

From circumstances of time 2 Kin. 5. 26 & place Ier. 7. 10 Isai 26. 10; if on the Lords day Ezek. 23. 37. 38, 39; or other times of divine worship Isai 58. 3, 4, 5, or immediately be­fore 1 Cor. 11 20, 21 or after these Ier. 7. 8, 9, 10 Pro. 7. 14, 15 Ioh. 13. 27 30, or other helps to prevent or remedy such miscarriages Ezra 9. 13 14, if in publike, or in the presence of others who are thereby likely to be provoked or defiled 2 Sam. 16 22 1 Sam. 2. 22, 23, 24.

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

A. Every sin, even the least, being against the soveraignty Iam, 2. 10, 11, goodnes Ex. [...]0. 1, [...], & holines of God Hab. 1. 13 Lev. 10. 3 Lev, 11. 44, 45, &, against his righteous law 1 Ioh. 3. 4 Rom. 7. 12: de­serveth his wrath & curse Eph. 5. 6 Gal. 3. 10., both in this life Lam. 3. [...]9 Deut. 28. 15 to the end., & that which is to come Mat. 25. 41: & cannot be expiated but by the blood of Christ Heb. 9. 22 1 Pet. 1. 18, 19.

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

A. That we may escape the wrath and curse of God due to us by reason of the transgression of the Law, be requireth of us repentance toward God, and faith to­ward our Lord Iesus Christ Acts 20. 21 Mat, 3. 7, 8 Luk 13. 3. 5 Acts 16. 30 31 Ioh. 3. 16. 18, and the diligent use of the outward meanes whereby Christ communicates to us the benefits of his mediation Prov. 21 to 6 Prov. 8. 33. to the end..

Q. What are the outward means where­by Christ communicates to us the benefi [...] of his mediation?

A. The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicates to his [Page 130] Church the benefits of his mediation, are all his ordinances; especially the Word, Sacraments, and prayer: all which are made effectuall to the Elect for their salvation Mat. 28. 19 20. Acts 2 42, 46, 47.

Q. How is the word made effectuall to salvation?

A. The Spirit of God maketh the Reading, but especially the Preaching of the Word, an effectual means of enlight­ning Neh. 8. 8 Acts 26. 18 Psal. 19. 8, convincing, and humbling sin­ners 1 Cor. 14 24, 25. 2 Chr. 34. 18, 19, 26 27, 28., of driving them out of themselvs, and drawing them unto Christ Acts 2. 37 41. Acts 8 27, to 39, of con­forming them to his Image 1 Cor. 3. 18, and subdu­ing them to his will 2 Cor. 10. 4 5, 6 Rom. 6. 17, of strengthening them against temptations and corrupti­ons Mat. 4▪ 4. 7. 8 Eph. 6. 16, 17 Psal. 19. 11 1 Cor. 10. 11, of building them up in grace Acts 20 32 2 Tim. 3. 15 16, 17, and establishing their hearts in holiness and comfort through faith unto salvation Rom. 16. 25 1 Thes. 3. 2 10, 11, 13 Rom. 15. 4 Rom. 10. 13 14, 15, 16, 17 Rom. 1. 16.

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

A. Although all are not to be permitted to read the Word publikely to the Con­gregation Deut. 31. 9 11, 12, 13 Neh. 8. 2. 3 Neh. 9. 3, 4, 5, yet all sorts of people are bound to read it apart by themselves Deut. 17 19. Rev. 1. 3 Ioh. 5. 39 Isa 34. 16, & with their families Deut. 6, 6, 7. 8, 9. Gen. 18 17, 19. Psal. 78. 5, 6, 7; 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.

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

A. The holy Scriptures are to be read, with an high, and reverent esteem of them Psa [...]. 19. 10, Neh. 8. 3. to 10. Exod. 24. 7. 2 Chr. 34. 27. Isai 66. 2.; with a firm perswasion that they [Page 131] are the very Word of God 2 Pet. 1. 19 20, 21, and that he only can enable us to understand them Luk. 24. 45 2 Cor. 3, 13, 14, 15, 16, with desire to know, believe, and obey the will of God revealed in them Deut. 17 19, 20, with diligence Acts 17. 11, and attention to the matter and scope of them Acts 8. 30 34. Luk. 10 26, 27, 28; with meditation Psal. 1. 2 Psal. 119. 97, application 1 Chr. 34. 21, self-deniall Pro. 3. 5 Deut. 33. 3, and prayer Prov. 2. 1 to 7. Ps. 119 18 Neh. 8. 6, 8.

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

A. The Word of God is to be preached only by such as are sufficiently gifted 1 Tim. 3. 2 6. Eph. 4. 8, 9 10, 11. Hos. 4. 6. Mal. 2. 7 2 Cor. 3. 6, & also duly approved & called to that office Ier. 14. 15 Rom. 10. 15 Heb. 5. 4 1 Cor. 12. 28 29. 1 Tim. 3 10. 1 Tim. 4 14. 1 Tim. 5, 22.

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▪, diligently Acts 18. 25, in season, and out of season 2 Tim. 4. [...]; plainly 1 Cor. 14. 19, not in the enticing words of mans wisdome, but in demonstration of the Spirit, and power 1 Cor. 2. 4; faithfully Ier. 23, 28 1 Cor. 4. 1, 2, making known the whole counsell of God Acts 20. 27: wisely Col. 1. 28 2 Tim. 2. 15, applying themselves to the necessities and capacities of the hearers 1 Cor. 3. 2. Heb 5. 12, 13. 14. Luk. 12. 42., zea­lously Acts 10. 25., with fervent love to God 2 Cor. 5. 13 14. Phil. 1. 15, 16, 17., and the souls of his people Col. 4. 12. 2 Cor. 12. 15., sincerely 2 Cor. 2. 1 [...]. 2 Cor. 4. 2., ayming at his glory 1 Thes. 2. 4, 5, 6. Ioh. 7. 18., and their conver­sion 1 Cor. 9. 19 20, 21, 22., edification 2 Cor. 12: 19. Eph. 4. 12., and salvation 1 Tim. 4. 16 Acts 26. 16, 17, 18..

Q. What is required of those that heare [Page 132] the Word preached?

A. It is required of those that hear the Word preached, that they attend upon it with diligence Pro. 8. 34, preparation 1 Pet. 2. 1, 2 Luke 8. 18, and pray­er Psal. 119. 18 Eph. 6. 18. 19; examine what they hear by the Scriptures Acts 17. 11, receive the truth with faith Heb 4 2, love 2 The. 2. 10, meeknesse Iames. 1. 21, and rediness, of minde Acts 17. 11, as the Word of God 1 The. 2. 13, me­ditate Luk. 9 44 Heb. 2. 1, and conferre of it Luk. 24. 14 Deut. 6. 6, 7; hide it in their hearts Prov. 2. 1 Psal. 119. 11, and bring forth the fruit of it in their lives Luk. 8. 15 Iames 1. 25.

Q. How doe the Sacraments become ef­fectuall means of salvation?

A. The Sacraments become effectuall means 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, & the blessing of Christ by whom they are instituted 1 Pet. 3. 21 Acts 8. 13 with v. 23 1 Cor. 3. 6, 7 1 Cor. 12. 13.

Q. What is a Sacrament?

A. A Sacrament is an holy ordinance instituted by Christ in his Church Gen. 17, 7 10. Ex. 12. ch. Mat. 28 19 Mat. 26, 27, 28, to signifie, seale, and exhibit Rom. 4. 11 1 Cor. 11. 24 25, unto those that are within the Covenant of grace Rom. 15. 8 Exod. 12. 48, the benefits of his mediation Acts 2. 38 1 Cor. 10. 16, to strengthen, and encrease their faith, and all other graces Rom. 4. 11 Gal. 3. 27; to oblige them to obedience Rom. 6. 3, 4 1 Cor. 10. 21, to testifie and cherish their love and communion one with ano­ther Eph. 4. 2, 3. 4, 5 1 Cor. 12. 13, and to distinguish them from those that are without Eph. 2. 11 12 Gen. 34. 14.

Q. What are the parts of a Sacrament?

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 1 Pet. 3. 21 Rom. 2. 28 29.

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

A. Vnder the New Testament Christ hath instituted in his Church only two Sacraments, Baptism, and the Lords Supper Mat. 28. 19 1 Cor. 11. 20 23 Mat. 26. 26, 27, 28..

Q. What is Baptism?

A. Baptism is a Sacrament of the New Testament, wherein Christ hath ordain­ed the washing with water, in the Name of the Father, and of the Sonne, and of the Holy Ghost Mat. 28. 19, to be a sign and seal of engrafting into himself Gal. 3. 27, of remis­sion of sinnes by his blood Mar. 1. 4 Rev. 1. 5, and rege­neration by his spirit Tit. 3. 5 Eph. 5. 26, of Adoption Gal. 3. 26 27, and resurrectionn to everlasting life 1 Cor. 15 29 Rom. 6. 5; and whereby the parties baptized are solemnly admitted into the visible Church 1 Cor. 12▪ 13, and enter into an open and professed engagement to be wholly and only the Lords Rom. 6 4.

Q. Ʋnto whom is Baptism to be admi­nistred?

A. Baptism is not to be administred to any that are out of the visible Church [Page 134] and so strangers from the Covenant of promise, till they professe their faith in Christ, and obedience to him Acts 8. 36 37 Acts 2. 38: 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. with Gal. 3. 9, 14. and Col. 2. 11, 12 and Acts 2 38, 39. and Rom. 4. 11, 12. 1 Cor. 7 14. Mat. 28. 19. Luk. 18. 15, 16. Rom. 11. 16.

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

A. The needful but much neglected du­ty of improving our Baptism, is to be per­formed by us all our life long; especially in the time of temptation, & when we are present at the administration of it to o­thers Col. 2. 11, 12 Rom 6. 4. 6, 11, by serious & thankfull considera­tion of the nature of it, & of the ends for which Christ instituted it, the priviledges and benefits conferred & sealed thereby, and our solemn vow made therein Rom. 6. 3, 4, 5, by being humbled for our sinful defilement, our falling short of, & walking contrary to the grace of Baptism and our engage­ments 1 Cor. 1. 11 12, 13 Rom. 6. 2. 3, by growing up to assurance of pardon of sin, and of all other blessings sealed to us in that Sacrament Rom. 4. 11, 12. 1 Pet. 3 21., 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, and by end eavouring to live by faith Gal. 3. 26, 2 [...], to have our conversation in holiness and righteousness Rom. 6. 22, as those [Page 135] that have therein given up their names to Christ Acts 2. 38, and to walk in brotherly love, as being baptized by the same spirit into one body 1 Cor. 12 13, 25, 26, 27.

Q. What is the Lords Supper?

A. The Lords Supper is a Sacrament of the New Testament Luk. 22. 20, wherein, by gi­ving & receiving bread and wine accor­ding to the appointment of Iesus Christ, his death is shewed forth; and they that worthily communicate, feed upon his body and blood, to their spirituall nourishment and growth in grace Mat. 26. 26 27, 28 1 Cor. 11. 23 24, 25, 26, have their union and communion with him confirmed 1 Cor. 10 16, testifie and renue their thankfulnesse 1 Cor. 11 24, 25, 26 and engagement to God 1 Cor. 10 14, 15, 16, 21, and their mutuall love and fel­lowship each with other, as members of the same mysticall body Cor. 10. 17.

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 the 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, & the Wine to the Communicants, who are, by the same appointment, to take, and eat the Bread, and to drink the Wine, in [Page 136] thankfull remembrance, that the body of Christ was broken and given, and his blood shed for them Cor. 11, 23 24 Mat. 26. 26, 27, 28 Mar. 14. 22, 23, 24 Luk. 22. 19, 20.

Q. How doe 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 & Wine in the Lords Supper Acts 3. 21, and yet are spiritually present to the faith of the receiver, no lesse truly and really then the elements themselves are to their outward senses Mat. 26. 26 28, so they that worthily communicate in the Sacrament of the Lords Supper, do therein feed upon the body & blood of Christ, not after a corporall, or carnall, but in a spirituall manner, yet truly and really 1 Cor. 1. 24 25, 26, [...] 28, 29, while by faith they receive and apply unto themselves Christ crucified, and all the benefits of his death 1 Cor. 10 16.

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

A. They that receive the Sacrament of Lords Supper, are, before they come, to prepare themselvs therunto, by examin­ing themselvs 1 Cor. 11. 28 of their being in Christ 2 Cor. 13. 5, of their sins, and wants 1 Cor. 5, 7 with Exod. 12. 15, of the truth and measure of their knowledg 1 Cor. 11. 29, faith 2 Cor. 13. 5 Mat. 26. 28, repentance Zech. 12. 10 1 Cor. 11 31, love to God and the bre­thren 1 Cor. 10 16, 17 Act. 2. 46, 47, charity to all men 1 Cor. 5. 8 1 Cor. 11. 18, 20, forgiving [Page 137] those that have done them wrong Mat. 5. 23, 24, of their desires after Christ Isai 55. 1 Ioh. 7. 37, and of their new obedience 1 Cor. 5 7, 8; and by renewing the exercise of these graces 1 Cor. 11 25, 26, 28 Heb. 10. 21 22, 24 Psal. 26. 6, by serious me­ditation 1 Cor. 11 24, 25, and fervent prayer 2 Chr. 30 18, 19 Mat. 26. 26.

Q. May one who doubteth of his being in Christ, or 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 Isai. 50. 10 1 Ioh. 5. 13 Psal. 88. throughout. Psal. 77. 1, to 12 Ionah 2. 4. 7, and in Gods account, hath it, if he be duly affected with the apprehension of the want of it Isai 54. 7, 8, 9, 10 Mat. 5. 3, 4 Psal. 31. 22 Psal. 73. 13 22, 23, and unfainedly desires to be found in Christ Phil. 3. 8, 7 Psal. 10. 17 Psal. 43, 1, 2. 5, 11., and to depart from iniqui­ty 2 Tim. 2. 19 Isai. 50. 10▪ Psal. 66. 18, 29. 30: in which case (because promises are made, and this Sacrament is appoin­ted, for the relief even of weak and doubting Christians Isai 40. 11 29. 31 Mat. 11. 28 Mat. 12. 20 Mat. 26. 28) he is to bewail his unbelief Mar. 9. 24, and labour to have his doubts resolved Acts 2. 57 Acts 16. 30, and so doing he may and ought to come to the Lords Supper, that he may be further strengthened Rom. 4. 11 1 Cor. 11. 28.

Q. May any who professe 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 & ought to be kept, [Page 138] from that Sacrament by the power which Christ hath left in his Church 1 Cor. 11. 27 to the end, with Mat. 7. 6. and 1 Cor. 5. ch. and Iude v. 23. and 1 Tim. 5. 22, untill they receive instruction, and ma­nifest their reformation 2 Cor. 2. 7.

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 & attention they wait upon God in that ordinance Levit. 10, 3 Heb. 12. 28 Psal. 5. 7 1 Cor. 11. 17, 26, 27, diligently ob [...]erve the Sacramentall Elements & actions Exo. 24. 8 with Mat. 26. 28, heedfully discern the Lords body 1 Cor. 11 29, and affectionately me­ditate on his death and sufferings Luk 22. 19, and thereby stirre up themselvs to a vigorous exercise of their graces 1 Cor. 11 26 1 Cor. 10. 3, 4, 5. 11. 14, in judging themselves 1 Cor. 11. 31, and sorrowing for sin Zech. 12. 10, in earnest hungering and thirsting after Christ Rev. 24. 17, feeding on him by faith Iohn 6. 35, recei­ving of his fulnesse Iohn 1. 16, trusting in his me­rits Phil. 3. 9, rejoycing in his love Ps. 63 4, 5, 2 Chr. 30. 21, giving thanks for his grace Psal. 22. 6, in renewing of their Covenant with God Ier. 50. 5 Psal. 50. 5, and love to all the Saints Acts 2, 42.

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 [Page 139] have behaved themselves therein, and with what successe Psal 28. 7 Psal. 85. 8 2 Cor. 11. 17 30. 31; if they find quick­ning & comfort, to blesse God for it 2 Chr. 30 21 22, 23, 25, 26 Acts 2. 42 46. 47, beg the continuance of it Psal. 36. 10 Cant. 3. 4 1 Chr. 29. 18, watch a­gainst relapses 1 Cor. 10. 3 4, 5, 12, fulfill their vows Psal. 50. 14 & in­courage themselves to a frequent atten­dance on that ordinance 1 Cor. 11. 25 26 Act. 2. 42. 46: but if they find no present benefit, more exactly to review their preparation to, & carriage at the Sacrament Cant. 5. 1. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6., in both which if they can approve themselves to God & their own cōsciences, they are to wait for the fruit of it in due time Psal. 123. Psal. 42. 5, 8 Ps. 43. 3, 4, 5: but if they see they have failed in either, they are to be humbled 2 Chr. 30 18. 19 Isa. 1. 16. 18, and to attend upon it after­ward with more care and diligence 2 Cor. 7. 11 1 Chr. 15, 12 13. 14.

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

A. The Sacraments of Baptism and the Lords Supper agree, in that the au­thour of both is God Mat. 28. 19. 1 Cor 11. 23▪, the spirituall part of both is Christ and his benefits Rom. 6, 3. 4 1 Cor. 10. 16, both are seals of the same Covenant Rom. 4. 11 with Col. 2 12 Mat. 26 27. 28., are to be dispensed by Ministers of the Gospel and by none other Iohn 1. 33 Mat 28. 19 1 Cor. 11 23 1 Cor. 4. 1 Heb. [...]. 4., & to be con­tinued in the Church of Christ, untill his second comming Mat. 28. 19 20. 1 Cor. 11. 26.

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

A. The Sacraments of Baptism and the Lords Supper differ, in that Baptism is to be administred but once, with water [Page 140] to be a sign and seal of our regeneration and engrafting into Christ Mat. 3, 11 Tit, 3, 5 Cal. 3, 27, and that even to infants Gen 17, 7, 9 Acts 2. 38. 39 1. Cor 7. 14; whereas the Lords Supper is to be administred often, in the Elements of bread and wine, to repre­sent and exhibit Christ as spirituall nou­rishment to the soul 1 Cor, 11 23, 24, 25, 26, and to confirm our continuance and growth in him 1 Cor. 10, 16, and that only to such as are of years and ability to examine themselves 1 Cor, 11 28, 29..

Q. What is Prayer?

A. Prayer is an offering up of our de­fires unto God Psal. 62, 8, in the Name of Christ Ich. 16, 23, by the help of his Spirit Rom. 8. 26, with confession of our sins Psa, 32, 5, 6 Dan. 9, 4, and thankfull acknowledgement of his mercies Phil. 4. 6.

Q. Are we to pray unto God only?

A. God only being able to search the hearts 1 Kin. 8. 39 Acts 1. 24 Rom. 8. 27, hear the requests Psal. 65, 2, pardon the sins Mich, 7. 18, and fulfill the desires of all Psal. 145 18, 19, and only to be believed in Rom. 10. 14, and worship­ped with religious worship Mat. 4. 10, prayer, which is a speciall part thereof 1 Cor. 1. 2, is to be made by all to him alone k, and to none other Ps. 50. 15 [...]om. 10. 14.

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 [...]ohn 16. 24 Dan. 9. 17, not by bare menti­oning of his Name Mat. 7. 21, but by drawing our [Page 141] encouragement to pray, and our bold­nesse, strength, and hope of acceptance in prayer, from Christ and his media­tion Heb. 4. 14 15. 16 1 Ioh 5. 13, 14, 15.

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

A. The sinfulnesse 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 Me­diator Ioh. 14▪ 6 I sai 59. 2 Ephes. 3 12; and there being none in heaven or earth appointed to, or fit for that glo­rious work, but Christ alone Ioh. 6. 27 Heb. 7. 25. 26 27 1 Tim. 2. 5; we are to pray in no other name but this only Col 3. 17 Heb. 13. 17.

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 enabling 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 Psal. 10. 17 Zech 12. 10.

Q. For whom are we to pray?

A. We are to pray for the whole Church of Christ, upon earth Eph. 6 18 Psal. 2 [...] ▪ 9, for Migistrates 1 Tim. [...]. 1, 2 and Ministers Co [...]. 4. 3, for our selvs Gen. 32. 11, our bre­thren Iam. 5. 16, yea our enemies Mat. 5. 44, and for all sorts of men living 1 Tim. 2. 1, 2, or that shall live hereafter Ioh, 17, 20 2 Sam. 7. 29; but not for the dead 2 Sam. 12 21, 22, 23, nor [Page 142] for those that are known to have sinned the sin unto death 1 Ioh. 5. 16.

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, the welfare of the Church Psal. 51. 18 Psal. 122. 6, our own Mat. 7. 11, or others good Psal. 125. 4, but not for any thing that is unlawfull 1 Ioh. 5. 14.

Q. How are we to pray?

A. We are to pray, with an awfull ap­prehension of the Majesty of God Eccl. 5. 1., and deep sense of our own unworthinesse Gen. 17. 27 Gen. 32. 19, necessities Luk. 15. 17 18, 19: and sins Luk. 18 13, 14; with penitent Psal. 51. 17, thankful Phil. 4. 6, and enlarged hearts 1 Sam. 1. 15 1 Sam. 211, with understanding 1 Cor. 14 15, faith, Mar. 11. 24 Iames 1. 6, sincerity Psal. 145. 18 Psal. 17. 1, fer­vency Iam. 5. 16, love 1 Tim. 2. 8, and perseverance Eph. 6. 18, wai­ting upon him Mic. 7, 7 with humble submission to his will Mat. 26. 36

Q. What rule bath God given for our di­rection in the duty of prayer?

A. The whole word of Gods is of use to direct us in the duty of praying 1 Ioh. 5. 14; but the speciall rule of direction is that form of prayer, which our Saviour Christ taught his Disciples, commonly called the Lords Prayer Mat 2. 9 10, 11, 12, 13 Luk. 11, 2, 3, 4.

Q. How is the Lords Prayer to be used?

A. The Lords Prayer is not only for direction, as a pattern according to which we are to make other prayers; 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 [Page 143] of the duty of prayer Mat. 6. 9 with Luk 11. 2.

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] treacheth us, when we pray; to draw near to God with confidence of his fatherly goodness, and our interest therein Luk 11. 13 Rom. 8. 15, with reverence and all other child-like dispositions Isai 64. 9, heavenly affections Psal. 123. 1 Lam. 3. 41, and due apprehen­sions of his soveraign power, Majesty, and gracious condescensions Isai 63. 15 16 Neh. 1. 4, 5, 6; as also to pray with and for others Acts 12. 5.

Q. What doe we pray for in this first Petition?

A. In the first Petition, [which is, Hollowed be thy name Mat. 6. 9,] acknow­ledging the utter inability and indisposi­tion that is in our selves and all men to honour God aright 2 Cor. 3. 5 Psal. 51. 15; we pray that God would by his grace enable and incline us and others to know, to acknowledge and highly to esteem him Ps. 67. 2, 3, his titles Ps. 83 18, at­tributes Ps. 86. 10 11. 12, 13, 15, ordinances, word 2 Thes. 3. 1 Psal. 147. 19 20. Psal. 138 1, 2 3. 2 Cor. 2. 14, 15, works, and whatsoever he is pleased to make himself known by Psal. 145 throughout. Psalm. 8. throughout., and to glorify him in [Page 144] thought, word Psal. 102. 1 Psal. 19 14, & deed Phil 9 11, that he would prevent & remove Atheism Pals. 67, 1, 2, 3, 4, ignorance Eph. 1. 17, 18 idolatry Psal. 97. 7, and profanenesse psal. 74. 18 22. 23, & what­soever is dishonourable to him 2 Kings 19 15, 16, and by his over-ruling providence, direct and dispose of all things to his own glory 2 Chro. 20 6. 10, 11, 12 Psal. 83 throughout Psal. 140. 4. 8.

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

A. In the second Petition, which is, [Thy kingdom come Mat 6 10] acknowledg­ing our selves & all mankind to be by nature under the dominion of sin & Sa­than Eph. 2. 2, 3; we pray that the kingdom of sin and Sathan, may be destroyed Ps. 68. 1. 18 Re. 12. 10, 11, the Gos­pell propogated throughout the world 2 Thes. 3. 1, the Iews called Rom. 10. 1, the fulnesse of the Gentiles brought in Iohn 17. 9 10. Rom. 11 25. 26 Psalm 67 throughout, the Church furnished with all Gospell officers & ordinances Mat. 9. 38 2 Thes 3 1, purged from corruption Mal 1 11 Zeph 3 9, countenan­ced, and mainteined by the civill Ma­gistrate 1 Tim. 2. 1, 2, that the ordinnnces of Christ may be purely dispenced and made effe­ctoall to the converting of those that are yet in their sins, & the confirming, com­forting & building up of those that are already converted Acts 4 29 30. Eph. 6. 18 19, 20. Rom 15 29, 30, 31 2 Thes. 2, 16 17; that Christ would rule in our hearts here Eph. 3. 14 15, 16, 17, 18 19, 20, and hasten the time of his second Comming, and our reigning with him for ever Rev. 22. 20, and that hee would bee pleased so to exercise the kingdom of his power in all the world, as may best conduce to these ends Isai. 64. 1, 2 Rev. 4. 8, 9 10, 11.

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 hea­len Mat 6 10) acknowledging by nature we and all men are not only utterly unable and unwilling to know and do the will of God Rom. 7. 18 Iob 21. 14 1 Cor. 2. 14, but prone to rebell against his word Rom. 8. 7, to repine and murmure against his Providence Exod 17. 7 Num. 14. 12, and wholly inclined to doe the will of the flesh, and of the De­vill Eph. 2. 2: We pray, that God would by his Spirit take away from our selves and others, all blindnesse Eph. 1. 17, 18, weaknesse Eph. 3. 16, in [...] disposednesse Mat 26. 49 41, and perversenesse o-heart Ier. 31. 18 19 e Ps. 119. 18 35. 36 Acts 21. 14, and by his grace make us able and willing to know, do, and submit to his will in all things y, with the like hu­mility Mic. 6. 8, chearfulnesse P [...]al. 100. [...]. Iob 1 21, faithfulnes Isa. 38. 3, diligence Psal. 119 4. 5, zeal Rom, 12. 11, sincerity Psal. [...]19. 18 and con­stancy Psal. [...]19, 11 [...], as the Angels doe in heaven Isa. 6. 2. 3 Ps, 103 20, 21 Mat, 18, 10.

Q What do we pray for in the fourth Pe­tition?

A. In the fourth Petition (which is. Give us this day our dayly bread Mat 6, [...]) acknowledging that in Adam & by our own sin, we have forfeited our right to all the outward blessings of this life, and deserve to be wholly deprived of them by God, and to have them cursed to us in the use of them Gen, 2, 17 Gen. 3, 17 Rom, 8, 20 21, 32 Jer. 5, 2 5 Deut, 28, 13 to the end.; and that neither they of themselves are able to sustain us Deut, 8, 5, nor [Page 146] we to merit Gen. 32. 10, or by our own industry to procure them Deut. 8. 17 18., but prone to desire Ier. 6. 13 Mar. 7. 21, 22, get Hos. 12. 7, and use them unlawfully Iam. 4. 3; 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 Gen. 28. 20 Eph 4. 28 2 Thes. 3. 11 12 Phil. 4, 6, and have the same continued, & blessed un­to us in our holy and comfortable use of them 1 Tim, 14. 3, 4, 5, and contentment in them Tim. 6. 6 7, 8, and be kept from all things that are contra­ry to our temporal support & comfort Prov, 30 8. 9.

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

A In the fifth Petition, [which is, For­give us our debts as we forgive our debters u,] acknowledging that we and all others are guilty both of originall & Mat 6 12 actuall sin, and thereby become debters to the justice of God, and that neither we nor any other creature can make the least satisfaction for that debt Rom: 3. 9 to 21 Mat. 18. 24 25 Ps. 130. 34; 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. 24 25, 26 Heb. 9 22, accept us in his beloved Eph. 1. 6, 7, conti­nue h [...]s favour and grace to us 2 Pet. 1. 2, pardon our dayly failings Hos. 14. [...] Ier. 14. 7, & fill us with peace [Page 147] and joy in giving us daily more and more assurance of forgivenesse Rom. 15. 13 Psal. 11. 7, 8, 9, 10, 12; which we are the rather emboldened to ask, and encouraged to expect when we have this testimony in our selves, that we from the heart forgive others their offences Luk. 11. 4 Mat. 6. 14. 15 Mat. 18. 35..

Q. What doe 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, & for a time led cap­tive by temptations 2 Chr. 32. 31, that Sathan 1 Chr. 11. 1, the world Luk. 21. 34 Mar. 4. 19, and the flesh are ready power­fully to draw us aside and insnare us Iam. 1. 14, and that we, even after the pardon of our sinnes, by reason of our corruption Gal. [...]. 17, weaknesse, and want of watchfulnesse Mat. 26. 41, are not onely subject to be tempted, and forward to expose our selves unto temptations Mat. [...]6. 66 70, 71, 72 Gal. 2. 11. to 15 2 Chr. 18. 3 with [...] Chr. 19. 2, but also of our selves unable and unwilling to resist them, to recover out of them, and to im­prove them Rom. 7. 23 24. 1 Chr, 21 1, 2, 3, 4 2 Chr. 16. 7. 8, 9, 16, and, worthy to be left under the power of them Ps. 81. 11, 12; we pray, that God would so over-rule the world and all in it Ioh. 17. 15., subdue the flesh Psal. 51. 10 Psal. 119. 13 [...], and [Page 148] restrain Sathan 2 Cor. 12 7, 8, order all things 1 Cor. 1 [...] 12, 13, be­stow and blesse all meanes of grace Heb. 13, 20 23, 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. 41. Psal 19. 13, or if tempted, that by his spirit we may be powerfully sup­ported and enabled to stand in the hour of temptation [...]ph. 3. 14 15, 16, 17. 1 Thes. 3. 13 Iude v. 24, or, when fallen, rai­sed again and recovered out of it Psal. 51. 12, and have a sanctified use and improvement thereof 1 Pet. 5. 8 9, 10, that our sanctification and sal­vation may be perfected 2 Cor. 13 7. 9, Sathan trod­den under our feet Rom. 16. 20 Zech. 3. 2 Luk. 22, 31, 32, and we fully freed from sin, temptation, and all evil for ever Ioh. 17. 15 1 Thes. 5. 23.

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, forever, Amen. Mat. 6. 13] teacheth us to enforce our Petitions with arguments Rom. 15. 30, which are to be taken not from any worthinesse in our selves, or in any other creature, but from God Dan. 9. 4, 7 8, 9, 16, 17, 18, 19; and with our pray­ers to joyn praises Phil. 4. 6, ascribing to God alone eternall soveraignty, omnipoten­cy, and glorious excellency Chr. 29. 10 11, 12, 13▪: in re­gard whereof, as he is able and wil­ling to help us Eph. 3. 20 21 Luk. 12. 13; so wee by faith are [Page 194] emboldned to plead with him that hee would 2 Chr. 20 6. 11, and quietly to rely upon him i Chr. 14. 12 that he will fulfill our requests; and to testifie this our desire and assurance, we say, Amen 2 Cor. 14 16 Rev. 22. 20, 21.

  • COR. BURGES, Prolocutor pro tempore.
  • HENRY ROBROUGH, Scriba.
  • ADONIRAM BYFIELD, Scriba.
FINIS.

THE SHORTER CATECHISM, First agreed upon by the Assembly of Divines at WESTMINSTER, And now approved by the General ASSEMBLY of the Kirk of Scotland to be a part of Uniformity in Re­ligion between the Kirks of Christ in the three Kingdoms.

QUESTION.

WHat is the chief end of man?

A. Mans chief end is to glorifie God 1 Cor. 10 31. Rom. 11. 36, and to enjoy him for ever Psal 73 24, to the end.

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

A. The Word of God (which is con­tained in the Scripture of the Old and [Page 154] New Testament 2 Tim. 3 16. Eph. 2 20) is the onely rule to direct us how we may glorifie and en­joy him 1 Ioh. 1 3, 4.

Q. VVhat do the Scriptures principal­ly teach?

A. The Scriptures principally teach, What man is to beleeve concerning God, and what duty God requires of man 2 Tim. 1 13. & 3. 16.

Q. VVhat is God?

A. God is a Spirit Joh. 4. 24, infinite Job 11 7 8, 9, eter­nal Psa. 90. 2, and unchangeable Jam. 1. 17, in his be­ing Exo 3. 14, wisdom Psa. 147. 5, power Rev. 4. 8, holiness Rev. 15. 4, justice, goodness, and truth Exod. 34 6, 7.

Q. Are there more Gods then one?

A. There is but one onely, the living and true God Deu. 6. 4 Jer. 10. 10.

Q. How many Persons are there in the God-head?

A. There are three Persons in the God-head, the Father, the Son, and the holy Ghost; and these three are one God, the same in substance, equal in power and glory 1 Joh. 5. 7 Mat. 28. 19.

Q. What are the decrees of God?

A. The Decrees of God are, his eter­nal purpose according to the counsel of his Will, whereby for his own glory, he hath fore-ordained whatsoever comes to pass Eph. 1. 4 11. Rom. 9. 22, 23.

Q. How doth God execute his decrees?

A. God executeth his Decrees in the [Page 155] Works of Creation and Providence:

Q. What 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 days, and all very good Gen. 1. Chap: Heb. 11. 3.

Q. How did God create man?

A. God created man, male and fe­male, after his own image, in knowledg, righteousness, and holiness, with domi­nion over the creatures Gen. 1 26, 27, 28 Col. 3 10 Eph. 4 24.

Q. What are Gods Works of Providence?

A. Gods Works of Providence are his most holy Ps. 145. 17, wise Psa. 104 24. Isa. 28 29, and powerful pre­serving Heb. 1. 3, and governing all his crea­tures, and all their actions Ps. 103. 19 Mar. 10. 29 30, 31.

Q. What special act of providence did God exercise toward man in the estate wherein be 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 knowledg of good and evil, upon pain of death Gal. 3. 12 Gen. 2. 17.

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

A. Our first Parents, being left to the freedom of their own will, fell from the estate wherein they were created, by sinning against God Gen. 3. 6 7, 8, 13 Eccl. 7 29.

Q. What is sin?

A. Sin is any want of conformity un­to or transgression of the Law of God h. 1 Ioh. 3. 4

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 estate wherein they were created, was their eating the forbidden fruit Gen 3. 6 12.

Q Did all mankinde fall in Adams first transgression?

A. The Covenant being made with Adam, not onely for himself, but for his posterity, all mankind descending from him by ordinary generation sinned in him, and fell with him in his first trans­gres [...]ion Gen. 2. 16, 17 Rom 5 12 [...] Cor. 15 21, 22.

Q Into what estate did the fall bring mankinde?

A. The fall brought mankinde into an estate of sin and misery Rom. 5 12.

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

A. The sinfulness of that estate where­into man fell, consists in the guilt of Adams first sin, the want of O [...]iginal righteousness, and the corruption of his whole nature, which is commonly called Or [...]ginal sin, together with all actual transgressions which proceed from it Rom. 5. 12, 19 Rom. 5 10 [...] 2 [...] Eph 2 1, 2, 3 [...]am. 1. 14 [...]. Mat. 15 19.

Q What is the misery of that estate whereinto Man fell?

A. All mankinde by their fall lost communion with God Gen. 3. 8, 10, 24, are und [...]r his wrath and curse Eph. 2. 2 3. gal. 3. 10, 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. Rom. 6. 29. Mat. 25. 41, 46.

Q. Did God leave all Mankinde to perish in the estate of sin and misery?

A. God, having out of his meer good pleasure from all eternity elected some to everlasting life Eph. 1 4, 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 20, 21, 22 Gal. 3. 21 22.

Q. Who is the Redeemer of Gods elect?

A. The only Redeemer of Gods elect, is the Lord Iesus Christ 1 Tim 2 5, 6, who being the eternal Son of God, became man Ioh. 1 14 Gal. 4. 4, and so, was and continueth to be God and man, in two distinct Natures, and one Person, for ever Rom. 9. 5 Luke 1. 35 Col. 2 9. Heb. 7. 24 25.

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, 16. and 10. 5, and a reasonable soul Mat 26 38, being conceiv­ed by the power of the Holy Ghost in the womb of the Vi [...]gin Mary, and born of her Luk. 1. 27 31, 35, 42 Gal. 4 4, yet without sin Heb. 4 15 and 7. 26.

Q. What Offices doth Christ execute as our Redeemer?

A. Christ as our Redeemer executeth [Page 158] the offices of a Prophet, of a Priest, and of a King, both in his estate of Humili­ation and Exaltation Act 3 21 22. Heb. 12 25. with 2 Cor. 13. 3. Heb. 5, 5, 6, 7. and 7. 25. Ps. 2. 6. Isa, 9. 6, 7. Mat. 21. 5. Psa. 2. 8, 9, 10, 11..

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

A. Christ executeth the Office of a Prophet, in revealing to us, by his Word and Spirit, the Will of God for our Salvation Ioh. 1. 18 1 Pet. 1. 10 11, 12. Ioh 15. 15. and 29. 31.

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, 28, and reconcile us to God Heb. 2. 17; and in ma­king continual intercession for us Heb. 7. 24 25.

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

A. Christ executeth the Office of a King, in subduing us to himself Acts 15 14, 15, 16, in ruling Is. 33. 22 and defending us Is. 32 1, 2, and in re­straining and conquering all his and our enemies 1 Cor. 15 25. Ps. 110 throughout..

Q. Wherein did Christs Humiliation consist?

A. Christs Humiliation consisted in his being born, and that in a low condi­tion Luk. 27, made under the Law Gal. 4. 4, undergo­ing the miseries of this life Heb. 12 2, 3, Isa. 53 2, 3, the wrath [Page 159] of God Luke 22 44. Mat. 27. 46, and the cursed death of the Cross Phil. 2. 8, in being buried 1 Cor. 15 3, & continuing under the power of death for a time Act. 2. 24 25, 26, 27 31.

Q Wherein consisteth Christs Exaltation?

A. Christs Exaltation consisteth in his rising again from the dead on the third day 1 Cor. 15 4, in ascending up into Heaven Mark 16 19, in sitting at the right hand of God the Father Eph. i. 20, and in coming to judg the world at the last day Act. 1. 11 and 17. 31.

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 Ioh. 1. 11 12 by his holy Spirit Tit. 3. 5, 6.

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

A. The Spirit applyeth to us the Re­demption purchased by Christ, by working Faith in us Eph. 1. 13 14. Ioh. 6 37, 39 Eph. 28, and thereby uniting us to Christ in our effectual Calling Eph. 3. 17 1 Cor. 1. 9.

Q What is effectual Calling?

A. Effectual Calling is the work of Gods Spirit 2 Tim. 1 9. 2 Thes. 2. 13, 14, whereby, convincing us of our sin and misery Act. 2 37, inlightening our minds in the knowledg of Christ Acts 26 18., and renewing our wills Ezek. 36. 26, 27., he doth perswade and inable us to imbrace Jesus Christ freely offered to us in the Gospel Ioh. 6. 44, 45. Phil. 2. 13..

Q. What benefits do they that are [...]ffe­ctually called, partake of in this life?

A. They that are effectually Called, do in this life partake of Justification Ro. 8 [...]0, Adoption Eph. 1. 5, Sanctification, and the se­veral benefits which in this life do ei­ther accompany or flow from them 1 Cor. 1 26, 30.

Q. What is Justification?

A. Justification is an act of Gods free grace, wherein he pardoneth all our sins Ro. 3. 24 25. and 4 6, 7, 8, and accepteth us as righteous in his fight 2 Cor. 5 19, 21, only for the Righteousness of Christ imputed to us Rom. 5. 17, 18, 19, and received by Faith alone Gal. 2. 16 Phil. 3. 9.

Q. What is Adoption?

A. Adoption is an act of Gods free grace 1 Io. 3. 1, whereby we are received into the number, and have a right to all the priviledges of the Sons of God Ioh. 1. 12 Rom. 8. 17.

Q. VVhat is Sanctification?

A. Sanctification is the work of Gods free grace 2 Thes. 2 13, whereby we are renewed in the whole man after the image of God Eph. 4. 23, 24 and are inabled more and more to dye unto sin and live unto righteousness Rom, 6 4.

Q. VVhat 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, are, assu­rance of Gods love, peace of Consci­ence [Page 161] Rom. 5 1, 2, 5, joy in the holy Ghost Rom. 14 17, increase of grace Pro 4 18, and perseverance therein to the end 1 Io. 5. 13 1 Pet. 1. 5.

Q. VVhat benefi [...]s do Beleevers receive from Christ at death?

A. The souls of Beleevers are at their death made perfect in holiness Heb. 12 23, & do immediately pass into glory 2 Cor. 5 1, 6, 8 Phil. 1. 23 Luk. 23. 43; and their bodies, being still united to Christ 1 Thes. 4 14, do rest in their graves Isa. 57. 2 till the Resurre­ction Iob 19. 26, 27.

Q. VVhat benefits do Beleevers receive from Christ at the Resurrection?

A. At the Resurrection, Beleevers be­ing raised up in glory i Cor, 15 43, shall be open­ly acknowledged and acquitted in the day of Judgment Mat. 25 23. & 10. 32, and made perfectly blessed in full injoying of God 1 Joh. 3. 2 1 Cor. 13. 2 to all eternity 1 Thes. 4▪ 17, 18.

Q VVhat 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 1 Sam. 15 22.

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, 15. and 10. 5.

Q Where is the Moral Law summarily comprehended?

A. The Moral Law is summarily comprehended in the Ten Command­ments Deu. 10. 4.

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 Neighbor as our selves Mat. 22 37, 38, 39, 40

Q. VVhat 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.

Q What doth the Preface to the Ten Commandments tea [...]h 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 Luk. 1 74 75. 1 Pet. 1 15, 16, 17, 18, 19.

Q. Which is the first Commandment?

A. The first Commandment is (Thou shalt h [...]ve no other Gods before me Exod. 20 3.)

Q. VVhat is required in the first Com­mandment?

A. The first Commandment requi­reth us to know and acknowledg God to be the only true God, and our God 1 Chro. 28. 9. Deut 26. 17; and to worship and glorifie him ac­cordingly Mat 4 10 Psa. 29. 2.

Q. What is forbidden in the first Com­mandment?

A, The first Commandment forbid­deth the denying Psa. 14. 1, or not worshiping and glorifying the true God, as God Ro. 1, 21, and our God Psa. 81 10, 11; and the giving that worship and glory to any other, which is due to him alone Rom. 1. 25, 26.

Q. What are we specially 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 the end.

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 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 Exod. 20 4, 5, 6.

Q. What is required in the second Commandment?

A. The second Commandment re­quireth, the receiving, observing, and [Page 164] keeping pure and intire all such religi­ous Worship and Ordinances, as God hath appointed in his Word Deut, 32 46. Mat. 28. 20 Act. 2. 42..

Q. What is forbidden in the second Commandment?

A. The second Commandment for­biddeth the worshiping of God by Ima­ges Deut. 4. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 Exod. 32. 5 8, or any other way not appointed in his Word Deut. 12 31, 32.

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

A. The Reasons annexed to the second Commandment are, Gods Soveraignty over us Psa 95. 2 3, 6, his propriety in us Ps. 45. 11, and the zeal he hath to his own Worship Exod 34 13, 14.

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 Ex. 20. 7.

Q. What is required in the third Com­mandment?

A. The third Commandment requi­reth, the holy and reverent use of Gods Names Mat. 6. 9 Deu. 28. 58, Titles Ps: 68. 4, Attributes Rev. 15 3, 4, Ordi­nances Mal. 1 11 14, Words Psa. 138 1, 2, and Works Iob 36 24.

Q What is forbidden in the third Com­mandment?

A. The third Commandment for­bideth all profaning or abusing of any thing whereby God makes himself known Mal. 1. 6 [...], 12. & 2 [...]. & 3. 14.

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

A. The Reason annexed to the third Commandment 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 judgment 1 Sam. 2 12, 17, 22 29. 1 Sam 3. 13. Deut 28. 58, 59.

Q. Which is the fourth Commandment?

A. The fourth Commandment is, Re­member the Sabbath day to keep it holy, Six days shall 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 the stranger that is within thy gates; For in six days 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. VVhat 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 to himself Deut. 15 12, 13, 14.

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

A. From the beginning of the World [Page 166] to the Resurrection of Christ, God ap­pointed the seventh day of the week to be the weekly Sabbath; and the first day of the week ever since, to continue to the end of the world, which is the Christian Sabbath Gen. 2. 2 3. 1 Cor. 16. 1, 2 Acts 20. 7.

Q. How is the Sabbath to be sanctified?

A. The Sabbath is to be sanctified by a holy resting all that day Exod. 20 8, 10, even from such worldly imployments and recrea­tions as are lawful on other days Exod. 16 25, 26, 27, 26 Neh. 13. 5 16, 17, 18, 19, 21 22., and spending the whole time in the pub­l [...]ke and private exercises of Gods wor­ship Luk. 4 16 Acts 20, 7 Ps 92. title Isa. 66. 23, except so much as is to be taken up in the works of necessity & mercy Mat. 12. 1, to 13.

Q What is forbidden in the fourth Commandment?

A. The fourth Commandment for­biddeth the omission or careless perfor­mance of the duties required Ezek. 22 25 Amos 8. 5 Mal. 1. 13, and the prophaning the day by idleness Acts 20 7, 9., or doing that which is in it self sinful Ezek. 23 38, or by unnecessary thoughts, words, or works about worldly imployments or recrea­tions Jer. 17. 24 25, 26 Isai. 58, 13.

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

A. The Reasons annexed to the fourth Commandment are, Gods allowing us six days of the week for our own im­ployments Exo. 20, 9, his challenging a special propriety in the seventh, his own exam­ple, [Page 167] and his blessing the Sabbath day Exod. 20 11.

Q. Which is the fifth Commandment?

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

Q. VVhat is required in the fifth Com­mandment?

A. The fifth Commandment requireth the preserving the honour, and per­forming the duties, belonging to every one in their several places & relations, as Superiors Eph. 5. 21, Inferiors Pet. 2 17, or Equals Ro. 12. 10.

Q. VVhat is forbidden in the fifth Com­mandment?

A. The fifth Commandment forbid­deth the neglecting of, or doing any thing against the honor and duty which belongeth to every one in their several places and relations Mat. 5, 15 4, 5, 6. Ezek. 34 2 3, 4 Rom. 13, 8.

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 shal serve for Gods glory, and their own good) to all such as keep this Commandment Deu. 5, 16 Eph 6, 2, 3.

Q. Which is the sixth Commandment?

A. The sixth Commandment is (Thou shall not kill Exod. 20 13.)

Q. What is required in the 6 Comandment

A. The sixth Commandment requi­reth [Page 168] all lawful endeavors to prese [...]ve our own life Eph, 5, 28, 29,, and the life of others 1 Kings 18, 4,.

Q. What is forbidden in the sixth Com­mandment?

A. The sixth Commandment forbid­deth the t [...]k [...]ng away of our own life, or the life of our neighbor unjustly; and whatsoever tendeth thereunto Acts 16, 28, Gen, 9 6..

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 re­q [...]ireth the preservation of our own and our neighbors chastity, in heart, speech, and behaviour 1 Cor. 7 2, 3. 5 34, 36 Col 4 6. 1 Pet. 3 2.

Q. What is forbidden in the seventh Commandment?

A. The seventh Commandment for­biddeth all unchast thoughts, words and actions Mat. 15 19, & 5, 28 Eph. 5 3, 4.

Q. Which is the eighth Commandement?

A. The eighth Commandement is, [Thou shalt not steal Exod. 20 15,]

Q. What is required in the eight Com­mandement?

A. The eighth Commandement re­quireth the lawfull procuring, and fur­thering the wealth and outward estate of our selves, and others Gen. 30, 30. 1 Tim. 5, 8,

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 Lev. 25, 35. Deut. 22, 1 2, 3, 4 5. Exod. 2 3, 4, 5 Gen. 47, 14, 20 Pro, 21, 17 & 23, 20, 21. & 28. 19. Ephe. 4. 28.

Q. Which is the ninth Commandment?

A. The ninth Commandment is, [Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor Exo, 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 Zach. 8, 16, and of our own and our neighbors good name 3 John v. 12 especially in witness bearing Prov. 14 5, 25.

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 Lev. 19, 16 Psal. 15, 3.

Q. Which 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 [Page 170] condition Heb. 13. 5 1 Tim. 6. 6, with a right and charitable frame of spirit toward our neighbor, and all that is his Job 31. 29. Rom. 12. 15. 1 Tim. 1, 5. 1 Cor. 13 4, 5, 6, 7..

Q What is forbidden in the tenth Com­mandment?

A. The tenth Commandment forbid­deth all discontentment with our own estate 1 Kin. 21 4. Esther 5. 13. 1 Cor. 10. 10., envying or grieving at the good of our neighbor Gal. 5 26. Jam. 3. 14. 16., and all inordi­nate motions and affections to any thing that is his Rom. 7. 7, 8. & 13. 9. Deut. 5 21..

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. 1 Joh. 1. 8. 10. Gal. 5. 17, but doth dayly break them in thought, word, & deed Gen. 6. 5. & 8. 21 Rom. 3, 9. to 21. [...]am 3. 2. to 13.

Q. Are all transgressio [...]s of the Law e­qually heinous?

A. Some sins in themselves, and by reason of several aggravations are more heinous in the sight of God then others Ez [...]k 8 6, 13. 15. 1 Joh. 5. 16. Psa. 78 17, 32▪ 56.

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, [...]. 6 Gal. 3. 10 Iam. 3 39 Mat. 25. 41.

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

A. To escape the wrath and curse of God due to us for sin, God requireth of us Faith in Jesus Christ, Repentance unto life Act. 20. 21, with the diligent use of all the out­ward means, wherby Christ communica­teth to us the benefits of Redemption Pro. 2. 1, to 6. & 8. 33. to the end. Isal. 59. 3.

Q. What is Faith in Jesus Christ?

A. Faith in Jesus Christ is a saving grace Heb, 10, 39, whereby we receive, and rest up­on him alone for Salvation, as he is of­fered to us in the Gospel Joh. 1. 12 Isa. 26. 3, 4 Phil. 3. 9 Gal. 2. 16.

Q. What is repentance unto life?

A. Repentance unto life is a saving grace Act. 11, 18, whereby a sinner out of a true sense of his sin Acts 2, 37, 38, and apprehension of the mercy of God in Christ Joel 2. 12 Jer. 3. 22, doth, with grief and hatred of his sin, turn from it unto God Jer. 31, 18, 19 Eze. 36, 31, with full purpose of, and endeavor after new obedience 1 Cor. 7 11. Isa. 1, 16, 17.

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, 20 Acts 2. 42 46, 47.

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 1 Cor. 14, 24, 25 Act. 26. 18 Psal. 19 8 Act. 20 32 Rom. 15 4 2 Tim. 3. 15, 16, 17. Ro. 10. 13 14, 15, 16, 17. & 1 16.

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 Prov. 8. 34., preparati­on 1 Pet. 2 1, 2., and prayer Psa. 119. 18., receive it with faith and love Heb. 4 2 2 Thes. 2. 10., lay it up in our hearts Psa. 119 11., and practise it in our lives Luk. 8. 15. Jam. 1. 25.

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

A. The Sacraments become effectual means of salvation, not from any vertue in them, or in him that doth administer them, but only by the blessing of Christ 1 Pet. 3. 21. Mat 3. 11. 1 Cor. 3. 6, 7, and the working of his Spirit, in them that by faith receive them 1 Cor. 12, 23.

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 applyed to Beleevers Gen. 17 7, 10 Exod. 12. 1 Cor. 11 23, 26.

Q. Which are the Sacraments of the New Testament?

A. The Sacraments of the New Te­stament are, Baptism Mat. 28 19, and the Lords Supper Mat. 26 26, 27, 28.

Q. VVhat is Baptism?

A. Baptism is a Sacrament, wherein the Washing with Water, in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost Mat. 28 19, doth signifie and seal our ingrafting into Christ, and par­taking of the benefits of the Covenant of Grace, and our engagement to be the Lords Ro 6, 24 Gal. 2, 27.

Q. To whom is Baptism to be admini­stred?

A. Baptism 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 37. and 2, 38, but the infants of such as are Members of the Visible Church are to be baptized Acts 2 38, 39 Gen. 17 10. with Col. 2, 11 12. 1 Cor. 7, 14.

Q VVhat 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 manner, but by faith made partakers of his Body and Blood, with all his benefits to their spiritual nou­rishment and growth in grace 1 Cor. 11 23, 24, 25, 26. & 10, 16.

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, of their Faith to feed upon him 2 Cor. 13 5, of their Repentance 1 Cor. 11 31, love 1 Cor, 10 16, 17, and new o­bedience 1 Cor 5, 7 8; lest, coming unworthily, they eat and drink judgment to them­selves 1 Cor. 11 28. 29.

Q. What is Prayer?

A. Prayer is an offering up of our de­sires to God Psa. 62. 8, for things agreeable to his will 1 Ioh, 5 14, in the Name of Christ Ioh. 16, 23, with confession of our sins Psal, 32, 5, 6 Dan. 9 4, and thankful acknowledgment of his mercies Phil, 4, 6.

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 Ioh, 5 14, but the special rule of direction, is, that form of Prayer which Christ taught his Disciples, com­monly called, The Lords Prayer Math. 6, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 with Luke 11, 2 3, 4.

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 Mat, 6, 9,) teacheth us to draw neer to God, with all holy reverence and confidence, as children to a father, able and ready to help us Ro. 8, 15 Luk, 11, 13; and that we should pray with and for others Act 12, 5 1 Tim. 2. 1. 2.

Q. What 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, and that he would dis­pose all things to his own glory Psa, 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 Psa, 68 1 18, and that the Kingdom of Grace may be ad­vanced Rev, 12, 10, 11, our selves and others brought into it, and kept in it 2 Thess, 3, 1. Rom, 10, 1, Ioh. 17, 9, 20, and that the Kingdom of Glory may be hastened Rev, 22 20.

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 by his grace would make us able and willing to know, obey, and submit to his will in all things Psa. 67, throughout. Ps. 119, 36 mat. 26 39 2 Sam. 15 25. Iob 1 21, as the Angels do in heaven Psa. 103. 20, 21.

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

A: In the fourth Petition, which is, (Give us this day our dayly 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 Gen. 28, 20. 1 Tim, 4. 4, 5.

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

A. In the fisth Petition, which is, (And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debters Mat. 6. 12,) we pray, that God for Christs sake would freely pardon all our sins Psa. 51. 1, 2, 7, 9 Dan. 9. 17, 18, 19; which we are the rather encouraged to ask, because by his grace we are enabled from the heart to for­give others Luk. 11. 4 Mat 18. 15

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, or support and deliver us when we are tempted 2 Cor 12. 1, 8.

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, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen Mat. 6. 13.) teacheth us to take our en­couragement in prayer from God one­ly Dan. 9. 4, 7, 8, 9, 16, 17, 18, 19., and in our Prayers to praise him, a­scribing Kingdom, power, and glory to him 1 Chro. 29. 10, 11, 12, 13; and in testimony of our desire and assurance to be heard, we say, A­men 1 Cor. 14 16. Rev. 22. 20, 21.

PROPOSITIONS Concern …

PROPOSITIONS Concerning Church-Government. AND ORDINATION OF MINISTERS.

LONDON, Printed for Robert Bostock, and are to be sold at his shop at the Kings-head in Pauls Church-yard, 1648.

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 Isa. 9. 6, 7 the Government is, whose name is called Wonderful, Counsellor, the Mighty God, the everlasting Father, [Page 4] the Prince of Peace, of the encrease of whose Government and Peace there shal be no end, who sits upon the throne of David, and upon his Kingdom to or­der it, and to establish it with Judgment Mat. 28. 18, 19, 20 Eph. 1. 20 21, 22, 23 compared with Eph. 4, 8, 11. & Psa. 68. 18 and Justice, from henceforth even for ever, having all power given unto him in Heaven and in 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 things 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.

Of the Church.

THere is one General Church visible held forth in the New Testament, 1 Cor. 12. 12, 13, 28. together with the rest of the Chapter.

The Ministry, Oracles and Ordi­nances [Page 5] 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. Ephes. 4. 4, 5. compared with vers. 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16. of the same Chapter.

Particular visible Churches, Mem­bers of the General Church, are also held forth in the New Testament, Gal. 1. 21, 22. Rev. 1. 4. 20. and Rev. 2. 1. Particular Churches in the Primitive times were made up of visible Saints, viz. Of such as being of age, professed faith in Christ, and obdience unto Christ; according to the Rule of Faith and Life taught by Christ and his A­postles; And of their Children, Acts 2. 38, 41. Acts 2 vers. last, compared with Acts 5. 14. 1 Cor. 1. 2. compared with the 2 Corinth. 9. 13. Acts 2. 39. 1 Cor. 7. 14. Rom. 11. 16. and so for­ward, Mark 10. 14. compared with Matth. 19. ver. 13, 14. Luke 18. vers. 15, 16.

Of the Officers of the Church.

THe Officers which Christ hath ap­pointed for the edification of his Church, and the 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-Governors and Deacons.

Pastors.

THe Pastor is an ordinary and perpe­tual Officer in the Church, Jer. 3. 15, 16, 17. Prophecying of the time of the Gospel, 1 Pet. 5. 2, 3, 4. Eph. 4. 11, 12, 13.

First, It belongs to his office;

To pray for and with his flock, as the mouth of the people unto God, Acts 6. 2, 3, 4. & 20. 36: Where Preaching and Prayer are joyned as several parts of the same Office, Jam. 5. 14, 15. 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, 1 Cor. vers. 15, 16.

To read the Scripture publickly, for the proof of which;

1. That the Priests and Levites in the Iewish Church, were trusted with the publick reading of the Word, as is [Page 7] proved, Deut. 31 9, 10, 11. Neh. 8. 1, 2, and 13.

2. That the Ministers of the Gospel have as ample a Charge and Commis­sion to dispence the Word as well as o­ther Ordinances, as the Priests and Le­vites had under the Law proved, Isa. 66. 21. Mat. 23 34. 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. 2 Tim. 3. 16, 17. Tit. 19.

To Chatechise, which is a plain lay­ing down the Principles of the Oracles of God, Heb. 5. 12. or of the Doctrine of Christ, and is a part of Preaching.

To dispence other divine Mysteries, 1 Cor. 4 1, 2.

To administer the Sacraments, Mat. 28 19, 20. Mark 16. 15, 16. 1 Cor. 11 23, 24, 25. compareth with 1 Cor. 10. 16.

To bless the People from God, Num. 6. 23, 24, 25, 26. compared with Rev 14. 5 [Page 8] (where the same blessings and Per­sons from whom they come are expresly mentioned) Isai. 66. 21. Where under the names of Priests and Levites to be continued under the Gospel, are meant Evangelicall Pastors, who therefore are by Office to bless the People, Deut. 10. 8. 2 Cor. 13, 14. Eph. 1. 2.

To take care of the Poor, Acts 1 [...]. 30. & 4. 34, 35, 36, 37. & 6. 2, 3, 4. 1 Cor. 16. 1, 2, 3, 4. Gal. 2, 9, 10.

And he hath also a ruling power over the Flock as a Pastor, 1 Tim. 5. 17. Acts 20. 17. and 28. 1 Thes. 5, 12. Heb. 13. 7. 17.

Teacher or Doctor.

THe Scripture doth hold out the name and title of Teacher, as well as of the Pastor, 1 Cor. 12. verse 28. Ephes 4. verse 11.

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 excercises according to these gifts, in the Ministry of the Word, Rom. 12. 6, 7, 8. 1 Cor. 12, 1, 4, 5, 6, 7. Though these different gifts may meet in, and accordingly be exercised by one and the [Page 9] same Minister, 1 Cor. 14. 3. 2 Tim. 4. 2. Tit. 1. 9 yet where be several Ministers in the same Congregation, they may be designed to several imployments, ac­cording to the different gifts in which each of them doth most excel, Rom: 12. 6, 7, 8. 1 Pet. 4. 10, 11. And he that doth more excel in exposition of Scripture, in teaching sound Doctrine, 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 particular Congrega­tion, he is to perform, so far as he is a­ble, the whole work of the Ministry, as appeareth in the 2 Tim. 4. 2. Tit. 1 9: before alledged, 1 Tim. 6▪ 2.

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

O [...]her Church-Governors.

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 [Page 10] the 2 Chron. 19. 8, 9, 10.) So Christ, who hath instituted a Government, and Go­vernors Ecclesiastical in the Church, hath furnished some in his Church, be­side the Ministers of the Word, with gifts for Government, and with com­mission to execute the same when called thereunto, who are to joyn with the Mi­nister in the Government of the Church, Rom. 12. 7, 8. 1 Cor. 12. 28. which Offi­cers reformed Churches commonly call Elders.

Deacons.

THe Scripture doth hold out Deacons as distinct Officers in the Church, Phil 1. 1. 1 Tim. 3. 8. whose Office is perpetual, 1 Tim. 3. 8. to verse 15. Acts 6. 1, 2, 3, 4. 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, Acts 6. 1, 2, 3, 4. and the verses fol­lowing.

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 publique [Page 11] Worship. When Beleevers 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 better administration of such Ordinances as belong unto them, and the discharge of mutual duties, 1 Cor. 14. 26. Let all things be done unto edifying, and verses 33. & 40.

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 Deut. 15, 7 11 one to another, have the better oppor­tunity thereby to discharge them; which Mat. 22. 39 Mat. 5, 17 Moral tye is perpetual, for Christ came not to destroy the Law, but to fulfil it.

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. James 2. 1, 2.

Thirdly, The Pastor and People must so nearly co-habite 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. 1 Tim. 5, 17. Heb 13, 7.

It is also requisite, that there should be others to joyn in Government, 1 Cor. 12, 28.

And likewise it is requisite, that there be others to take special care for the re­lief of the poor, Acts 6, 2, 3.

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.

Of the Ordinance in a particular Congregation.

THe Ordinances in a single Congre­gation, are Prayer, Thanksgiving, and singing of Psalms, 1 Tim. 2, ver. 1. 1 Cor. 14, 15, 16. The Word read (al­though there follow no immediate ex­plication of what is read) the Word ex­pounded and applyed, Catechising, 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 Governors 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 [Page 14] 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 Math. Chap. 18.

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 dispence 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.

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

To admonish and rebuke.

Which three branches are proved by Heb. 13. 17. 1 Thess. 5. 12, 13. Ezek. 34. 4.

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 prophaned.

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. 2 Thess. 3. 6, 14, 15. 1 Cor. 11. 27. to the end of the chap. compared with Jude, vers. 23. 1 Tim. 5. 22. And there was power and authority under the Old Testament, to keep unclean persons from holy things, Levit. 13. 5. Numb. 9. 7. 2 Chron. 23. 19.

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 [Page 16] 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 shall be found unworthy.

Secondly, Because it is an Ecclesia­stical business of ordinary practise 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 the first Epistle to Timothy, Chap. 4. vers. 14. and in Acts 15. verses 2, 4 6.

A Presbytery consisteth of Ministers of the Word, and such other publique Officers as are agreeable to, and war­ranted by the Word of God, to be Church Governors, to joyn with the Ministers in the Government of the Church, as appeareth, Rom. 12. 7, 8. 1 Cor. 12. 28.

The Scripture doth hold forth, that many particular Congregations may [Page 17] be under one Presbyterial Govern­ment.

This Proposition is proved by in­stances.

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

This appeareth thus.

First, The Church of Jerusalem con­sisteth of more Congregations then one, 1 as is manifest, first,

By the multitude of Beleevers menti­oned in divers,

Both before the dispersion of the Be­leevers there by means of the persecu­tion (mentioned in the Acts of the A­postles, Chap. 8. in the beginning thereof) witness Chap. 1. verse 11. and 2. v. 41, 46, 47. and 4. 4. and 5: 14. and Chap. 6. of the same book of the Acts, verses 1, 7.

And also after the dispersion, Acts 9. 31. Chap. 12. [...]4. and Chap. 21. ver. 20. of the same book.

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 seldom; which will not consist with Chap. 6. verse 2. of the [Page 18] same book of the Acts of the Apostles.

Thirdly, The diversity of languages amongst the Beleevers, mentioned both in the second and sixth Chapters of the Acts, doth argue more Congregations then one in that Church.

Secondly, All those Congregations 2 were under one Presbyterial Govern­ment, because; First, They were one Church, Acts 8. 1. and Chapter 2. 47. compared with Chap. 5. 11, and 12. 5. and 15. 4. of the same book.

Secondly, The Elders of the Church are mentioned, Acts 11. 30. and 15. 4, 6, 22. and 21. 17, 18. of the same book.

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

Fourthly, The several Congregati­ons in Jerusalem being one Church, the Elders of that Church are mentioned as meeting together for acts of Govern­ment, Acts 11. 30. and 15. 4, 6, 22. and 21. 17, 18. 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 [Page 19] 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 Ierusalem, and the many Con­gregations now in the ordinary condi­tion of the Church, as to the point of fixedness required of Officers or Mem­bers.

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

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

1, That they were more Congrega­tions then one in the Church of Ephesus, appears by Acts 20, 31. where is mention of Pauls continuance at Ephesus in Preaching for the space of three years, and Acts 19, 18, 19, 20. 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 until Pentecost, and verse 19, where is mention of a par­ticular Church in the house of Aquila and Priscilla then at Ephesus, as appears Acts 18. 19, 24, 26. all which laid toge­ther doth prove, that the multitudes of Beleevers did make more Congrega­tions [Page 20] then one in the Church of E­phesus.

2. That there were many Elders over these many Congregations, as one Flock, appeareth, Acts 20, 17, 25, 28, 30, 36, 37.

3. That these many Congregations were one Church, and that they were under one Presbyterial Government, appeareth, Rev. 2. the first six verses, joyned with Acts 20. 17, 18.

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. Pastors and Teachers, and other Church Governors (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 Provincial, Nati­onal, and Oecumenical.

It is lawful and agreeable to the Word of God, that there be a subordi­nation of Congregational, Classical, [Page 21] 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.

Touching the Doctrine of Ordination.

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.

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

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

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. Acts 13. 3.

It is agreeable to the Word of God, and very expedient, that such as are to [Page 22] be ordained Ministers, be designed to some particular Church or other Mini­sterial charge, Acts 14, 23. Tit 1, 5. Acts 20, 17, and 28.

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 and Tit. 1, 6, 7, 8, 9.

He is to be examined and approved by those by whom he is to be ordained, 1 Tim. 3, 7, 10, and Chap 5, 22.

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. Tit. 1, 7.

Touching the Power of Ordination.

ORdination is the act of a Presbytery, 1 Tim. 4, 14.

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.

It is very requisite that no single Con­gregation that can conveniently associ­ate, [Page 23] 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 in 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, th [...]se 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.

Some other particulars concerning Church Government, do yet remain unfinished, which shall be, with all convenient speed, prepared and presented to this honorable House.

TO THE Right Honorable THE Lords and Commons Assembled in PARLIAMENT, The humble Advice of the Assembly of Divines, now sitting at Westminster, Concerning The Doctrinal part of Ordination of MINISTERS.

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

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

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

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

The power of ordering the whole 5 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.

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

He that is to be ordained Minister, 7 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.

He is to be examined and approved of 8 by those by whom he is to be ordained, 1 Tim. 3, 7, 10. & 5, 22.

No man is to be ordained a Minister 9 [Page 26] for a particular Congregation, if they of that Congregation can shew just cause of exception against him, 1 Tim. 3, 2. Tit 1, 7.

Preaching Presbyters orderly associ­ated, 10 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.

In extraordinary cases, something ex­traordinary 11 may be done, until a setled order may be had, yet keeping as near as possible may be to the Rule, 2 Chron. 29. 34, 35, 36. 2 Chron. 30. 2▪ 3, 4, 5.

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

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, until he be lawfully called and ordain­ed thereunto: And that the work of Ordination is to be performed with all due care, wisdom, gravity and solemni­ty, we humbly tender these Directions as requisite to be observed.

First, He that is to be ordained, being 1 either nominated by the people, or o­therwise commended to the Presbytery for any place, must addres 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 years, but especially of his life and conversation.

Which being considered by the Pres­bytery, 2 they are to proceed, to enquire touching the Grace of God in him, and whether he be of such holiness 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 withall in a brotherly way, with mildness of spirit, and with special respect to the gravity, modesty and quality of every one.

2. He shall be examined touching his skil in the Original Tongues, and his tryal [Page 28] 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 tryal shall be made in his knowledg 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 judg, he shal, 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 express the sum thereof, and maintain a Dispute upon them.

6. He shall Preach before the People, the Presbytery, or some of the Ministers of [Page 29] 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 tryal of his gifts in Preach­ing, he shall undergo an examination in the Premises two several days, and more; if the Presbytery shall judg 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 fitness for that place shall be tryed by his Preaching there, (if it shall be judged necessary) by a further examination of him.

In all which he being approved, he is 3 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, & may have time and occasion to enquire into, and the better to know his life and Conversation.

In the last of these three days, ap­pointed 4 for the tryal of his gifts in Preaching, there shall be sent from the Presbytery to the Congregation, a pub­lick intimation in writing, which shall be publickly read before the people; and after affixed to the Church door, to [Page 30] signifie, that such a day a 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 meekness what exceptions they have a­gainst him, & 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.

Upon the day appointed for Ordina­tion, 5 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 duty of Ministers of Christ, and how the people ought to receive them for their work sake.

After the Sermon, the Minister who 6 hath Preached, shall in the face of the Congregation demand of him who is [Page 31] 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 Faithfulness 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 willingness and humility in meek­ness 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.

In all which having declared him­self, professed his willingness and pro­mised 7 his endeavours by the help of God; The Minister likewise shall de­mand of the People, concerning their willingness to receive and acknowledg him as the Minister of Christ, and to o­bey and submit unto him, as having rule over them in the Lord, and to main­tain, 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.

Thankefully acknowledging the great 8 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 sitting 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.

This or the like form of prayer and 9 blessing being ended, let the Minister who preached; briefly exhort him to consider of the greatness of his Office and Work, the danger of negligence both to himself and his people, the blessing which will accompany his faithfulness in this life, and that to come; and withal exhort the people to [Page 33] carry themselves 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.

If a Minister be designed to a Con­gregation, 10 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.

And in case any Person already or­dained 11 Minister in Scotland, or in any other reformed Church, be designed to a Congregation in England, he is to bring from that Church to the 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 fitness and suffici­ency, and to have the same course held with him, in other particulars, as is set down in the rule immediately going [Page 34] before touching Examination and Ad­mission.

That Records be carefully kept in the 12 several Presbyteries, of the names of the Persons ordained, 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.

That no Money or Gift, of what kind 13 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 concerns the extraordinary way, requisite to be now practised, fol­loweth.

In these present exigences, while we 1 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 [Page 35] 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 address 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, until by Gods blessing the aforesaid difficulties may be in some good measure removed, let some god­ly Ministers 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 onely for the work of Ordination.

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

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

Let them do the like, when any man shall duly and lawfully be recomended 4 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.

FINIS

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