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. Westminster Confession of Faith. 1649 Approx. 392 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 107 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2013-12 (EEBO-TCP Phase 2). A80320 Wing C5760 Thomason E1419_1 ESTC R210325 99869133 99869133 170670

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 Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 2, no. A80320) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 170670) Images scanned from microfilm: (Thomason Tracts ; 255:E1419[1]) 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. Westminster Confession of Faith. [2], 176, 36 p. Printed for Robert Bostock, at the Sign of the Kings Head in Pauls Church yard, London : [1649] Publication date from Wing. "Propositions concerning church-government and ordination of ministers" has separate title page dated 1648; register and pagination are separate. Annotation on Thomason copy: "July 16 1649". Reproduction of the original in the British Library.

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 eng Church of England -- Creeds -- Early works to 1800. Church of England -- Government -- Early works to 1800. Catechisms, English -- Early works to 1800. Ordination -- Church of England -- Early works to 1800. 2020-09-21 Content of 'availability' element changed when EEBO Phase 2 texts came into the public domain 2012-06 Assigned for keying and markup 2012-06 Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2012-08 Sampled and proofread 2012-08 Text and markup reviewed and edited 2013-02 Batch review (QC) and XML conversion

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.; 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 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 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 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 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.. 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 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 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 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 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 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 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, 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 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 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 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 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, 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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, 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 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 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, 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 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 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 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, 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, 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 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 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 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 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 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, 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 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 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, 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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, 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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, 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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., & 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 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 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, 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 & 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 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. 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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, 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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, 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 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 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 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, 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 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 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 (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 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 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 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 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 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 be under one Presbyterial Government.

This Propoſition is proved by inſtances.

Firſt, Of the Church of Jeruſalem, 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, 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 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 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 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 hold forth, that many Congregations may be under one Presbyterial Government.

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

1, That they were more Congregations then one in the Church of Epheſus, appears by 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 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, 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 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, 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 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 publick 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 theſe Preaching Presbyters to whom it doth belong, 1 Tim. 5, 22. Acts 14, 23. & 13, 3.

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 agreeable to the Word of God, and very expedient, that ſuch as are to be ordained Miniſters, be deſigned to ſome particular Church or other Miniſterial charge, Acts 14, 23. Tit. 1, 5. Acts 20, 17, & 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. Tit. 1. 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.

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

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

In extraordinary caſes, ſomething extraordinary 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 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 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, 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 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 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 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 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 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, 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 hath Preached, ſhall in the face of the Congregation demand of him who is now to be ordained concerning his faith in Chriſt Jeſus, and his perſwaſion of the truth of the Reformed Religion according to the Scripture; His ſincere intentions and ends in deſiring to enter into this Calling; His diligence in Praying, Reading, Meditation, Preaching, Miniſtring the Sacraments, Diſcipline, and doing all Miniſterial Duties towards his Charge; His Zeal and 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 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 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 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 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, 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 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 before touching Examination and Admiſſion.

That Records be carefully kept in the 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 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 cannot have any Presbyteries formed up to their whole power and work, and that many Miniſters are to be ordained for the ſervice of the Armies and Navy, and too many Congregations where there is no Miniſter at all; and where (by reaſon of the publike troubles) the people cannot either themſelves enquire out and finde out one who may be a faithful Miniſter for them, or have any with ſafety ſent unto them for ſuch a ſolemn tryal as was before mentioned in the ordinary Rules, eſpecially when there can be no Presbytery neer unto them, to whom they may 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 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 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 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