and have worshipped and have sacrificed thereunto and said these be thy Gods O Israel which have brought thee up out of the land of Egypt Deut. 4.15 16. Take ye therefore good heed unto your selves for ye saw no manner of similitude on the day that the Lord spake unto you in Horeb out of the midst of the fire lest ye corrupt your selves and make you a graven image the similitude of any figure the likeness of male or female Q. 2. What is the second Sin forbidden in this Commandment A. The second Sin against this Commandment is Will-worship consisting in the addition of mans inventions to the Worship of God as a part thereof Matth. 15.9 But in vain do they worship me teaching for doctrines the commandments of men Col. 2.20 21 22 23. Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world why as though living in the world are ye subject to ordinances Touch not taste not bandle not Which all are to perish with the using after the commandments and doctrines of men which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will-worship and humility and neglecting of the body not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh Q. 3. But if those additions be for the more decent worshipping of God is it not allowed by 1 Cor. 14.40 Let all things be done decently and in order A. No That Scripture commands that Gods Institutions be regularly and decently performed but not that we invent Ceremonies that are symbolical to make them more decent than Christ left them Q. 4. Why is the second Commandment left out in all the publick Offices of the Popish Church A. Because it expresly condemns their Idolatrous Images kneeling at the Sacrament Prayers to Saints and all their Superstitious Crosses Surplices Chrisme as sinful Q. 5. Do they not clear themseâ—ves from Idolatry by telling us they only worship God before or by them but not the Images themselves A. No they do not for the use of Images in Gods Worship is expresly condemned in this Commandment and if this would excuse the Papists it had also excused the Israelites in worshipping the Calâ— Exod. 32.4 And they said these 〈◊〉 thy Gods O Israel that brought thee up out of the land of Egypt Q. 6. What 's the first Reason annexed to the second Commandment A. The first Reason annexed is Gods Sovereignty I the Lord which shews that it belongs to God only to institute his own Worship and make it effectual and therefore to do that in his Worship which he never commanded is sinful and dangerous Ier. 7.31 And they have built the high places of Tophâ—t which is in the valley of the son of Hinnom to burn their sons and their daughters in the fire which I commanded them not neither came it into my heart Q. 7. What 's the second Reason annexed to the second Commandment A. The second Reason is Gods Propriety in us he is our God and we belong to him and therefore to corrupt his Worship greatly aggravates our Sin Hos. 9.1 Rejoyce not O Israel for joy as other people for thou hast gone a whoring from thy God c. Q. 8. What 's the third Reason annexed to the second Commandment A. The jealousie of God over his Worship and Worshippers so that this sin of corrupting his Worship will dreadfully incense his wrath as it did Levit. 10.1 2. And Nadab and Abihu the sons of Aaron took either of them his censer and put fire thereon and offered strange fire before the Lord which he commanded them not And there went out fire from the Lord and devoured them and they dyed before the Lord. Q. 9. What 's the first Instruction from the second Commandment A. That it is an hainous sin to neglect the Worship of God in that manner he hath appointed us to Worship him as in Prayer Ier. 10.25 Pour out thy fury upon the Heathen that know thee not and upon the families that call not on thy name Hearing the Word Prov. 28.9 He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law even his prayer shall be abomination Q. 10. What 's the second Instruction from the second Commandment A. That those that suffer for endeavouring to preserve the purity of Gods Ordinances and non-conformity to the contrary injunctions of men have a good warrant to bear them out in all such Sufferings Deut. 4.2 Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you neither shall you diminish ought from it that ye may keep the Commandments of the Lord your God which I command you c. Q. 11. What 's the third Instruction from the second Commandment A. That it is highly sinful and dangerous to innovate and prescribe by Humane Authority such symbolical Rites in the Worship of God as he never appointed or allowed in his Word Matth. 15.9 But in vain do they worship me teaching for doctrines the commandments of men Q. 12. What 's the fourth Instruction hence A. Hence we learn how much Parents and Children are obliged to worship God constantly spirâ—tually and agreeably to his Will revealed in his Word otherwise the jealousie of God will visit them both in the way of Judgment For as Obedience entails a Blessing so Disobedience entails a Curse on Posterity Exod. 34 14. For thou shalt worship no other God for the Lord whose name is jealous is a jealous God Of the third Commandment Quest. 53. 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 Quest. 54. What is required in the third Commandment A. The third Commandment requireth the holy and reverend use of Gods Names Titles Attributes Ordinances Word and Works Quest. 55. What is forbidden in the third Commandment A. The third Commandment forbiddeth all profaning or abusing of any thing whereby God maketh himself known Quest. 56. 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 Iudgment Q. 1. How doth this Commandment differ from the first and second A. The first hath respect to the object of Worship forbidding us to worship any other but God The second respects the means of Worship forbidding us to worship God by any other means than what he hath prescribed But the third respects the manner of his Worship â—orbidding all careless or profane use of his Name and commanding an holy reverence from us in all our solemn addresses to him or ordinary mention of his Name Maâ— 1.6 A son honoureth his father and a servant his master If I then be a father where is mine honour and if I be a master where is my fear saith the Lord of hosts unto you O Priests that despise my name And ye
An Essential property of his Nature whereby he can do all things that he pleases to have done Ier. 32.17 Ah Lord God behold thou hast made the Heavens and the Earth by thy great power and stretched-out arm and there is nothing too hard for thee Q. 2. What evidences have we before our eyes of the Almighty Power of God A. It appears in the Creation of the World Rom. 1.20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen being understood by the things that are made even his eternal Power and Godhead And its Sustentation Heb. 1.3 VVho upholdeth all things by the word of his power Q. 3. Did God's power ever act its utmost A. No he can do more than ever he did or ever will do Mat. 3.9 God is able of these stones to raise up children unto Abraham Mat. 26.53 Q. 4. Are there not some things which God cannot do A. Yes there are but they are such things as are inconsistent with his truth and holiness Tit. 1.2 which God that cannot lye 2 Tim. 2.13 He cannot deny himself Q. 5. What is the first thing inferred from God's power A. That all the creatures necessarily depend on him for what ability they have and without the permission of the supreme Power they can do us no hurt Ioh. 19.11 Thou couldest have no power against me except it were given thee from above Q 6. What is the second Inference from hence A. That the difficulties which lie in the way of the promises need be no stumbling-blocks to our Faith Rom. 4.20 21. He staggered not at the promises through unbelief being fully persuaded that what he had promised he was able also to perform Q. 7. What is the third Inference from this Attribute A. The Saints need not be scared at the greatness of their sufferings their God can carry them through Dan. 3.17 Our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace Q 8. What is the Fourth Inference A. That the salvation of God's people is certain whatever their dangers be Being kept by this mighty power 1 Pet. 1.5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith to salvation Q. 9. What is the last Inference hence A. That the state of the damned is unconceiveably miserable Their punishment proceeding from the glory of the Almighty 2 Thes. 1.9 Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord and the glory of his power Of God's Holiness Quest. 1 HOW manifold is the Holiness of God The Holiness of God is twofold Communicable or incommunicable â—f his communicable holiness the Apostle speaks Heb. 12.10 But he for our profit that we might be partakers of his holiness Of his incommunicable holiness that Scripture speaks 1 Sam. 2.2 There is none holy as the Lord. Q. 2. What 〈◊〉 the essential and incommunicable Holiness of God A. It is the Infinite purity of his Nature whereby he delights in his own holiness and the resemblance of it in his creatures and hates all impurity Hab. 1.13 Thou art of purer eyes than to behold evil and canst not look on iniquity Q. 3. What is the first property of God's Holiness A. He is essentially holy Holiness is not a separable quality in God as it is in Angels and Men but his Being and his Holiness are one thing Q. 4. What is the second property of God's Holiness A. God is essentially Holy the author and fountain of all communicated Holiness Lev. 20.8 I am the Lord which sanctifieth you Q. 5. What is ehe third property A. That the Holiness of God is the perfect rule and pattern of holiness to all creatures 1 Pet. 1.16 Be ye holy for I am holy Q. 6. What is the first Instruction A. That the holiest of men have cause to be ashamed and humbled when they come before God Isa. 6.3 5. And one cried unto another saying Holy holy holy is the Lord of Host the whole earth is full of his glory Then said I VVoe is me for I am undone because I am a man of unclean lips c. Q. 7. What is the second Instruction from God's Holiness A. That there is no coming near to God without a Mediator for our God is a consuming fire Q. 8. What is the third Instruction from God's Holiness A. That Holiness is indispensibly necessary to all those which shall dwell with him in Heaven Heb. 12.14 And holiness without which no man shall see the Lord. Q. 9. What is the fourth Instruction from hence A. That the Gospel is of inestimable value as it is the instrument of conveighing the Holiness of God to us 2 Cor. 3.18 But we all with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord are changed into the same image from glory to glory even as by the spirit of the Lord. Joh. 17.17 Sanctify them through thy truth thy word is truth Q. 10. What is the last Instruction from God's Holiness A. That all the despisers and scoffers of Holiness are despisers of God for Holiness is the very nature of God and in the creature it is his represented Image Of God's Iustice. Quest. 1. WHat is the Iustice of God A. The Justice of God is the perfect rectitude and equity of his Nature whereby he is just in himself and in all his ways towards the Creatures Deut. 32.4 He is the rock his work is perfect for all his ways are judgment a God of truth and without iniquity just and right is he Q. 2. What is the first Property of God's Iustice A. That it infinitely excels all humane Justice in the perfection of it No creature can compare in Justice with God Iob 9.2 How shall man be just with God Q. 3. What is the second property of God's Iustice A. That he is universally righteous in all his administrations in the world Psal. 145.17 The Lord is righteous in all his ways and holy in all his works Q. 4. What was the greatest demonstration of the Iustice of God that ever was given to the world A. The greatest evidence that ever was given of the Justice of God was in his exacting full satisfaction for our sins upon Christ. Rom. 3.25 26. Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past through the forbearance of God To declare I say at this time his righteousness that he might be just and the justifier of him which believeth in Iesus Rom. 8.32 He spared uot his own Son but delivered him up for us all Q. 5. What is the Secoâ—d Discovery of God's Iustice A. The Second Discovery of the Justice of God is in the eternal punishment of Sin in Hell upon all that do not repent and come to Christ by Faith in this World Rom. 2.5 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasureth up unto thy self wrath against the day of wrath and revelation
his Sin by Generation for we were in his loyns as treason stains the blood of the posterity or the parents Leprosie the Children Psal. 51.5 Behold I was shapeâ— in iniquity and in sin did my mother conceive me Q 4. Wherein doth it consist A. It consists in two things First In our aversation and enmity to that which is good Rom. 7.18 In me that is in my flesh there dwelleth no good thing Secondly In proneness to that which is evil Rom. 7.14 But I am carnal sold under sin Q 5. Is this corruption of Nature in all Men A. Yes In all meer men and women none exempted Rom. 3.10 and 23. As it is written There is none righteous no not one for all have sinned and come short of the glory of God Q. 6. In what part of our Nature doth this Sin abide A. It abides in the whole man in every part of man both Soul and Body Gen. 6.5 God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually 1 Thes. 5.23 Now the God of peace sanctify you wholly and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Iesus Christ. Q. 7. How is the Body infected by it A. In the readiness of the bodily members to further sin and its temptations in the Soul Rom. 3.13 14 15. Their throat is an open sepulcher with their tongues they have used deceit the poyson of Asps is under their lips whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness their feet are swift to shedblood Q. 8. What learn we from Original Sin A. To bear patiently the miseries we see on our Children and their death also without murmuring Rom. 5.14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression Q. 9. What is the second Instruction A. It teaches us humility and should be matter of confession and humiliation when we sin actually Psal. 51.5 Behold I was shapen in iniquity and in sin did my mother conceive me Q. 10. What is the third Instruction A. It should provoke parents to use their utmost diligence for the conversion of their Children who draw sin from them Q 11. What is the last Instruction A. It teaches us the necessity of Regeneration and should provoke us greatly to desire it Of Man's Misery Quest. 19. WHat is the Misery of that Estate whereinto Man fell A. All Mankind by their Fall lost communion with God are under his wrath and curse and so made liable to all miseries in this life to death it self and to the pains of Hell for ever Q. 1. What communion had God with Man before the Fall A. Man then enjoyed the gracious presence and favour of God with him which was better than life Q. 2. How doth it appear this was lest by the Fall A. It appears by Scripture-Testimony That Adam lost it as to himself Gen. 3.8 And Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden And we in him Eph. 2.12 At that time ye were without Christ being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise having no hope and without God in the world Q. 3. Was this the only misery that came by the Fall A. No Man did not only lose communion with God but fell under his wrath and curse Eph. 2.3 And were by nature children of wrath even as others Q. 4. Doth the wrath and curse of God then lie on all Men A. It lies on all the unregenerate in the world Gal. 3.10 Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which is written in the book of the law to do them But believers are delivered from it by Christ. 1 Thes. 1.10 Even Iesus which delivered us from the wrath to come Q. 5. How are the miseries of Man by the Fall divided A. They are divided into the miseries of this world and of the world to come Q 6. What are the miseries that come on them in thss world A. The miseries of life as Sickness Pain Poverty on the Body Fear Trouble Sorrow on the Mind and at last Death it self Rom. 6. ult The wages of sin is death Q. 7. What are the Miseries after this Life A. The Pains and Torments of Hell for ever Psal. 9.17 The wicked shall be turned into hell Q. 8. What are the Torments of Hell A. Pain of Loss and Pain of Sense Mat. 25.41 Depart from me ye cursed into everlasting fire Q. 9. What learn you from hence A. The woful State of the unconverted Miserable here and miserable to Eternity Q. 10. What else learn we hence A. The great salvation Believers have by Christ from all this misery Heb. 2.3 How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him Of the Salvation of God's Elect and of the Covenant of Grace Quest. 20. DID God leave all Mankind to perish in the State of Sin and Misery A. God having out of his meer good pleasure from all eternity elected some to everlasting life diâ— 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 Q. 1. Are some Persons chosen to salvation and others left A. Yes God hath chosen some to salvation and passed by others as the Scriptures speak See Rom. 8.30 Moreover whom he did predestinate them he also called And Jude v. 4. For there are certian men crept in unawares who were before of old ordained to this condemnation ungodly men c. Q 2. Did God chuse some because he foresaw they would be better than others A. No God's choice was not on foreseen works but meerly of his grace and good pleasure of his will Eph. 1.5.6 Having predestinated us into the adoption of children by Iesus Christ unto himself according to the good pleasure of his will to the praise of the glory of his grace Q. 3. Is this Election of God made in time and that according as men use their free will or from Eternity A. Election is an Eternal act of God before the world was and depends not on Man's using his free-will as appears from Eph. 1.4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world that we should be holy and without blame before him in love Q. 4. Shall all that be Elected be called and saved A. Yes the Scripture is full and plain for it Acts 13.48 And when the Gentiles heard this they were glad and glorified the word of the Lord and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed Rom. 8.30 Moreover whom he did predestinate them he also called c. Q. 5. By whom are the Elect saved A.
all that thou hast And in the New Testament all special good as 2 Thes. 3.16 Now the Lord of peace give you peace always Q. 2. VVhat are the kinds of special Peace A. There is a twofold special peace One without us by reconciliation Rom. 5.1 Therefore being justified by faith we have peace with God And peace within us by way of consolation Col. 3.15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts Q. 3. VVhat did our peace cost Christ A. It cost him bloody Stripes and Sufferings Isa. 53.5 The chastisement of our peace was upon him and by his stripes we are healed Q. 4. Can none have true peace but such as are in him A. No others may have false Peace Luke 11.21 VVhen a strong man armed keepeth his palace his goods are in peace But Believers only have true peace Rom. 5.1 Therefore being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Iesus Christ. Q. 5. Have all Believers peace in their consciences at alâ— times A. No they are always in a state of peace but have not always the sense of peace Isa. 50.10 VVho is among you that feareth the Lord and obeyeth the voice of his servant that walketh in darkness and hath no light let hâ—m trust in the name of the Lord and stay upon his God Q. 6. What is that which hinders the sense of peace in Believers A. Their Sins against the Lord and grieving of his Spirit Isa. 59.2 But your iniquities have separated between you and your God and your sins have hid his face from you that he will not hear Q. 7. What maintains the state of peace when the sense of peace is lost A. Christ's continual and potent Intercession with the Fâ—ther for us 1 Iohn 2.12 My little children these things write I unto you that ye sin not and if any man sin we have an advocate with the father Iesus Christ the righteous Q. 8. What is the best way to maintain our peace with God A. Strict walking by Gospel-Rules Gal. 6.16 And as many as walk according to this rule peace be on them Q. 9. Doth this Peace come and go with outward Peace A. No we may enjoy this when no peace is to be had in the World Iohn 16.33 These things I have spoken unto you that in me ye might have peace in the world ye shall have tribulation but be of good chear I have overcome the world Q. 10. What is the first Instruction from hence A. That the wicked are in a sad case at all times but especially in evil times Isa. 57.20 21. But the wicked are like the troubled Sea when it cannot rest whose waters cast up â—nire and dirt There is no peace saith my God to the wicked Q. 11. What is the second Instruction from hence A. That the chief Care of a Christian should be to keep his peace with God Ier. 17.17 Be not a terror to me Thou art my hope in the day of evil Q. 12. What is the last Instruction A. Let the Saints long to be in Heaven the State of full and perfect Peace Isa. 57.2 He shall enter into peace they shall rest in their beds each one walking in his uprightness Of Ioy in the Holy Ghost Quest 1. HOW many sorts of Ioy are there among men A. There is a Sensitive Joy Acts 14.17 Nevertheless he left not himself without witness in that he did good and gave us rain from Heaven and fruitful Seasons filling our hearts with food and gladness A sinful Joy Prov. 15.21 Folly is joy to him that is destitute of wisdom And a spiritual Joy Rom. 5.11 And not only so but we also joy in God though our Lord Iesus Christ. Q. 2. Why is spiritual Ioy called Ioy in the Holy Ghost A. Because the Holy Ghost is the Author of it Gal. 5.22 But the fruit of the spirit is love joy peace c. Q. 3. What is the First thing begets joy in the Saints A. The First thing they joy in is their Justification before God Isa. 61.10 I will greatly rejoyce in the Lord my soul shall be joyful in my God for he hath cloathed me with the garments of salvation he hath covered me with the robes of righteousness Q. 4. What is the Second thing that breeds this Ioy A. Hopes of Glory breeds Joy in the Saints Rom. 5.2 And rejoyce in hopes of the glory of God Q. 5. What is the instrument by which the spirit conveys this Ioy A. Faith is the instrument of it Phil. 1.25 And baving this confidence I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith Q. 6. What is the first Property of this Ioy A. 'T is Joy unspeakable and full of Glory 1 Pet. 1. 8. Believing ye rejoyce with joy unspeakable and full of glory Q. 7. What is the second Property of it A. That it is not in the power of men to deprive the Saints of it Iohn 16.22 And your joy no man taketh from you Q. 8. What is the third Property of it A. It makes the Soul free and chearful in the ways of Obedience Psal. 119.32 I will run the ways of thy commandments when thou shalt enlarge my heart Q. 9. What is most destructive to a Christian's Ioy A. Sin especially sin against light Psal. 51.8 Make me to hear joy and gladness that the bones which thou hast broken may rejoyce Q. 10. What should be the main Care of a Christian in this World A. To maintain his joy in God to the last Acts 20.24 But none of these things move me neither count I my life dear unto my self so that I might finish my course with joy Q. 11. Have not Hypocrites their joys as well as real Christians A. Yes but the Joy of the Hypocrite is not grounded upon Scripture-warrant and will vanish away and will come to nothing at last Iohn 5.35 He was a burning and a shining light and ye were willing for a season to rejoyce in his light Q. 12. Whas is the first Inference from hence A. Let all that expect joy in the Holy Ghost see that they preserve purity of Conscience and Conversation 2 Cor. 1.12 Grace be to you and peace from God our Father and from the Lord Iesus Christ. Q. 13. What is the last Inference A. That Religion is no melancholy thing but the fountain of all Joy and Pleasure Prov. 3.17 Her ways are ways of pleasantness and all her paths are peace Of the Increase of Grace Quest. 1. DOTH all true Grace increase and grow A. Yes it doth like the Morning light Prov. 4.18 The path of the just is as the shining light that shineth more and more unto the perfect day And for that end God hath appointed Ministers and Ordinances Eph. 4.11 12. And he gave some Apostles and some Prophets and some Evangelists and some Pastors aud Teachers for the perfecting of the Saints for the work of the Ministry for the edifying of
our obedience to God and not to man whatever we suffer for it Acts. 4.19 Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God judge ye Q. 6. Why must we obey God rather than Man A. Because God is the Supream and Sovereign Lord of our Consciences and no Creature hath power to command our Obedience but in and from him Isa. 33.22 For the Lord is our judge the Lord is our lawgiver the Lord is our King he will save us Q. 7. Have the People Liberty to compare the Laws of God and Men and judge how they agree or differ A. Yes their Judgment of Discretion is both commanded 1 Cor. 10.15 I speak as to wise men judge ye what I say And commended Acts 17.11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica in that they received the word with all readiness of mind and searched the Scriptures daily whether those things were so Q. 8. What is the only Rule for our Obedience to God A. The will of God revealed in the Scriptures is our only Rule of Obedience Isa. 8.20 To the law and to the testimony if they speak not according to this word it is because there is no light in them Q. 9. But if a man have a voice a vision or a dream seeming to hint the secret will of God may he not obey it A. Yes if it be consonant to the revealed will of God in the word otherwise not Deut 29.29 The secret things belong unto the Lord our God but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever that we may do all the words of this law Q 10. What is the first Instruction hence A. That it 's highly sinful and dangerous to disobey the known will of God in any thing Rom. 1.18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who hold the truth in unrighteousness Luke 12.47 And that servant which knew his Lord's will and prepared not himself neither did according to his will shall be beaten with many stripes Q. 11. What is the second Instruction A. That 's a blessed man who conscienciously labouâ—s to obey the will of God so far as he can discover it Iohn 13.17 If ye know these things happy are ye if ye do them Gal. 6.16 And as many as walk according to this rule peace be on them and mercy Q. 12. What is the third Inference A. It is highly sinful and dangerous to command others or obey commands from others which are not according to God's Command Hos. 5.11 Ephraim is oppressed and broken in judgment because he wilingly walketh after the commandments Jer. 7.31 And they have built the high places of Tophet which is in the valley of the son of Hinnom to burn their sons and their daughters in the fire which I commanded them not neither came it into my heart Of the Moral Law Quest. 40. 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 Q. Where is the Moral Law summarily comprehended A. The Moral Law is summarily comprehended in the Ten Commandments Q. 1. Is every man under the Direction and Obligation of a Law A. Yes being a reasonable Creature is capable of and fitted for Government by Law which other Creatures are not and being an accountable Creature to God must needs be under a Law Rom. 2.15 Which shew the works of the Law written in their hearts their consciences also bearing witness and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another Q. 2. How could man be under a Law before the Law was given by Moses A. Before ever the Law was given at Sinai all the race of Adam had a Law written in their Hearts viz. the Light of Reason and Dictates of natural Conscience Rom. 2.14 For when the Gentiles which have not the law do by nature the things contained in the Law these having not the law are a law unto themselves And besides this the Church had the revealed will of God to direct them 2 Pet. 1.19 20. We have also a more sure word of Prophesy whereunto ye do well to take heed as unto a light that shineth in a dark place until the day down and the day-star arise in your hearts Knowing this first that no prophesy of the Scripture is of any private interpretation Q. 3. What is the meaning of the Moral Law A. 'T is not a Law to direct and order our Manners but a Law that binds universally and perpetually as the Ten Commandments do those to whom they are promulged and the Light of Nature doth all others Rom. 2.14 For when the Gentiles which have not the Law do by nature the things contained in the Law these having not the Law are a Law unto themselves Luke 16.17 It is easier for Heaven and Earth to pass than one tittle of the Law to fall Q. 4. Why is it said to be summarily comprehended in the Ten Commandments A. Because much more is included in every Command than is exprest as our Saviour shews in his Exposition of it Mat. 22.40 On these two Commandments hang all the law and the prophets Q. 6. Doth the Moral Law bind Christians under the Gospel A. Yes it doth as a Rule to order their Conversations by Iam. 2.8 9 10. If ye fulfil the royal law according to the Scripture Thou shalt love thy Neighbour as thy self ye do well but if ye have respect to persons ye commit sin and are convinced of the law as transgressors for whosoever shall keep the whole law and yet offend in one point is guilty of all Q. 6. Is the Moral Law the same thing with the Covenant of Works and imposed for the same end A. God never designed the Law to be the way of Man's Justification since the Fall Gal. 3.21 22. Is the law then against the promises of God God forbid for if there had been a law-giver which could have given life verily righteousness should have been by the law but the Scripture hath concluded all under sin that the promise by faith of Iesus Christ night be given to them that believe But it was promulged to convince Men of Sin Rom. 7 7 What shall we say then Is the law sin God forbid Nay I had not known sin but by the law for I had not known lust except the law had said Thou shalt not covet And bring them to Christ. Gal. 3.24 Wherefore the law was our School-master to bring us unto Christ that we might be justified by faith Q. 7. What is the first Inference from hence A. Hence we learn the abominable Nature of Popery The Pope being that lawless One who will not be bound to the Laws of God himself 2 Thes. 2.8 Then shall that wicked one be revealed whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth
say wherein have we despised thy name Q. 2. What is the first thing especially required in the third Commandment A. It requires the most aweful and reverential frame of our hearts in all our approaches to God Psal. 89.7 God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints and to he had in reverence of all them that are about him And in his Worship Ioh. 4.24 God is a spirit and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth Q. 3. What 's the second thing required in this Commandment A It requires truth in our witness-bearing as knowing God seeth our hearts and is witness to all that we think or speak Zech. 5.4 I will bring it forth saith the Lord of hosts and it shall enter into the house of the thief and into the house of him that sweareth â—alsly by my name c. Q. 4. What 's the third thing required in this Commandment A. That in all our Appeals to God in secret or doubtful matters we be sure that the Appeal be necessary aweful and true Ier 17.16 As for me I have not hastened from being a pastour to follow thee neither have I desired the woful day thou knowest that which came out of my lips was right before thee Psal. 139.23 24 Search me O God and know my heart try me and know my thoughts And set if there be any wicked way in me and lead me in the way everlasting Q. 5. What doth this Commandment especially forbid A. It forbids and condemns all profane Oaths as most injurious to the Name of God Matth. 5.34 37. Swear not at all neither by heaven for it is Goâ—s throne c. but let your communication be yea yea nay nay for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil Q. 6. VVhat is the danger of profane or false Swearing A. Such are reckoned Enemies to God Psal. 139.20 Thine enemies take thy name in vain The Curse of God enters into such Families Zech. 5.4 I will bring it forth saith the Lord of hosts and it shall enter into the hoâ—se of the thief and into the house of him that sweareth falsly by my name c. And the Lord will not hold them guiltless Q. 7. VVhat else is forbidden in this Commandment A. It forbids and condemns all heedless wandering and drowsie performance of Gods Worship Isa. 29.13 14. VVherefore the Lord said forasmuch as this people drew near me with their mouth and with their lips do honour me bâ—t have removed their heart far from me and their fear towards me is taught by the precept of men Therefore behold I will proceed to do a marvellous work amongst this people even a marvellous work and a wonder for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid And 2 Kings 10.31 But Iehu took no heed to walk in the law of the Lord God of Israel with all his heart for he departed not from the sins of Ieroboam which made Israel to sin Q. 8. What other sin is forbidden in this Command A. It forbids all light and irreverent use of the Scriptures especially in our jests or by way of scoffing Ier. 17.15 Behold they say unto me where is the word of the Lord let it come nowe Jer. 6.10 Behold the word of the Lord is unto them a reproach they have no delight in it Q. 9. By what Argument doth God enforce the third Commandment on men A. That the breakers of this Command shall surely be punished by the Lord either in this life Deut. 28.58 59. If thou wilt not observe to do all the words of this law that are written in this book that thou mayest fear this glorious and fearful name The Lord thy God Then the Lord will make thy plagues wonderful and the plagues of thy seed even great plagues and of long continuance and sore sickness and of long continuance Or in that to come Rom. 2.5 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thy self wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God Except they repent and reform Q. 10. What 's the first Instruction from the third Commandment A. That great and infinite is the Patience of God in forbearing provoking Sinners so long as he doth Romans 9.22 VVhat if God willing to shew his wrath and to make his power known endured with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction Q. 11. VVhat 's the second Instruction from hence A. That God is to be justified in the severest of his Judgments by which at any time he manifests his displeasure against the profaneness of the World Hos. 4.1 2 3. Hear the word of the Lord ye children of Israel for the Lord hath a controversie with the inhabitants of the land because there is no truth nor mercy nor knowledge of God in the land By swearing and lying and killing and stealing and committing adultery they break out and bloud toucheth bloud Therefore shall the land â—ourn and every one that dwelleth therein shall languish with the beasts of the field and with the fowls of heaven yea the fishes of the sea also shall be taken away Q. 12. What 's the third Instruction from hence A. That God takes special notice of and greatly delighteth in them that fear and reverence his Name Isa. 66.5 Hear the word of the Lord ye that tremble at his word Your brethren that hated you that cast you out for my names sake said let the Lord be glorified but he shall appeaâ— to your joy and they shall be ashamed Mal. 3.16 And a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord and that thought upon his name Q. 13. What 's the last Inference from hence A. That those Parents have much to answer for that by their Examples teach or by their Negligence encourage their Children to profane Gods Name Ier. 5 7. How shall I pardon thee for this Thy children have forsaken me and sworn by them that are no Gods c. Of the Sabbath Quest. 57. WHich is the fourth Commandment A. The fourth Commandment is Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy Six days shalt thou labour and do all thy work but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God in it thou shalt not do any work thou nor thy Son nor thy Daughter thy Man-servant nor thy Maid-servant nor thy Cattle nor thy Stranger which is within thy Gates For in six dayes the Lord made Heaven and Earth the Sea and all that in them is and rested the seventh day wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it Quest. 58. What is required in the fourth Commandment A. The fourth Commandment requireth the keeping holy to God such set time as he hath appointed in his Word expresly one whole day in seven to be an holy Sabbath unto the Lord. Quest. 59. Which day of the seven hath God
good to all such as keep this Commandment Q 1. What Relatives are directly and more especially concerned in this fiâ—th Commandment A. All Superiours and Inferiours are concerned in it Especially 1. Political Fathers and their Children that is Kings and Subjects Mark 11.10 Blessed be the kingdom of our father David c. 2. Spiritual Fathers and their Children that is Ministers and their People 1 Cor. 4 15. For though you have ten thousand instrâ—cters in Christ yet have ye not many fathers for in Christ Iesus I have begotten you through the gospel 3. Natural Parents and their Children Ephes. 6.1 Children obey your parents in the Lord. 4. All Civil Superiours and Inferiours as Husbands and Wives Masters and Servants Ephes. 5.22 Wives submit your selves unto your own husbands as unto the Lord. And Ephes. 6.5 Servants be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh c. Q. 2. What is the Duty of Political Fathers or Magistrates to their Political Children or Subjects A. It is to rule and govern the people over whom God hath set them with Wisdom 2 Chron. 1.10 Give me now wisdom and knowledge that I may go out and come in before this people Justice 2 Chron. 19.5.6 7. And â—e sit judges in the land throughout all the fenced cities of Iudah city by city And he said to the judges Take heed what ye do for ye judge not for man but for the Lord who is with you in the judgment Wherefore now let the fear of the Lord be upon you take heed and do it c. And Piety 2 Sam. 23.3 He that ruleth over men must be just ruling in the fear of God Carefully providing for their Souls in every place of their dominion 2 Chron. 17.9 And they taught in Iudah and had the book of the law of the Lord with them and went about throughout all the cities of Iudah and taught the people And for their common outward peace and safety 2 Chron. 17.12 And Iehoshaphat waxed great exceedingly and â—e built in Iudah castles and cities of store Q. 3. What are the Duties of Subjects to their Rulers A. It is to pray for them 1 Tim. 2.1 2. I exhort therefore that first of all supplications prayers intercessions and giving of thanks be made for all men For kings and for all that are in authority c. To honour them 1 Pet. 2.17 Fear God honour the King To obey their just Laws Rom. 13.1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers c. And to pay them the Tribute that is due to them Rom. 13.7 Render therefore to all their dâ—es tribute to whom tribute is due custom to whom custom c. Q. 4. What are the Duties of Ministers to their people A. Their Duty is 1. To feed their flock constantly with wholesome food 2 Tim. 4.2 Preach the word be instant in season and out of season rebuke reprove exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine 2. To be full of bowels of tender Affection to them 1 Thess. 2.7 8. But we were gentle among you even as a nurse cheriâ—heth her children So being affectionately desirous of you we were willing to have imparted unto you not the Gospel of God only but also our own souls because ye were dear unto us 3. To pray for them Eph. 1.15 16. Wherefore I also after I heard of your faith in the Lord Iesus and love unto all the saints Cease not to give thanks for you making mention of you in my prayers 4. To watch over them 1 Pet. 5.2 Feed the flock of God which is among you taking the oversight thereof not by constraint but willingly c. And 5. To walk as an Example of Godliness before them Tit. 2.7 In all things shewing thy self a pattern of good works c. All which Duties require their residence among them 1 Pet. 5.2 Feed the flock of God which is among you c. Q. 5. What are the peoples Duties towards their Ministers A. Their Duty is 1. To esteem and love them dearly for their works sake 1 Thess. 5.12 13. And we beseech you Brethren to know them which labour among you and are over you in the Lord and admonish you and to esteem them very highly in love for their works sake 2. To attend on the Word preached by them as the Word of God 1 Thess. 2.13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing because when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us ye received it not as the word of men but as it is in truth the word of God 3. To pray for them and the success of their labours Heb. 13.18 Pray for us c. 4. Not to receive light and malicious reports against them 1 Tim. 5.19 Against an elder receive not an accusation but before two or three witnesses 5. To make a competent and comfortable provision for them Gal. 6.6 Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things Q. 6. What are the Duties of Natural Parents to their Children A. It is their Duty 1. To be tenderly but not fondly affectionate to and tender over them Isa. 49.15 Can a woman forget her sucking child that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb 2 To educate them for God Ephes. 6.4 And ye fathers provoke not your chiâ—dren to wrath but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. 3 To restrain their Sins by Correction Prov. 29.15 The rod and reproof give wisdom but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame 4. To provide for their livelyhood 1 Tim. 5.8 But if any provide not for his own and especially for those of his own house he hath denied the faith and is worse than an infidel 5. To pray dayly for them Iob 1.5 And it was so when the days of their feasting were gone about that Iob sent and sanctified them and rose up early in the morning and offered burnt-offerings according to the number of them all For Iob said it may be that my sons have sinned and cursed God in their hearts Thus did Job continually 6. To encourage them with endearing language in the way of Godliness Prov. 31.1 2 3. The words of King Lemuel the prophesie that his mother taught him What my son and what the son of my womb and what the son of my vows Give not thy strength unto women nor thy wayes to that which destroyeth kings Q. 7. What are the Duties of Children to Parents A. Their Duty is 1. To obey them only in the Lord Eph. 6.1 Children obey your parents in the Lord. 2 To reverence and honour them Levit. 19.3 Ye shall fear every man his mother and his father c. 3. To submit to their Reproofs and Corrections Hebr. 12.9 Furthermore we have had fathers of our â—flesh which corrected us and we gave them reverence 4. To provide for them if they be poor and needy and we have
which are known by Travellers to be small not capable of plunging into Q. 10. What are the benefits accruing to us by Baptism A. The benefits are twofold some external called the fatness of the Olive-tree i. e. Ordinances and visible Membership Rom. 11.17 And thou being a wild olive-tree were grafted in amongst them and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive-tree And some spiritual and saving 1 Pet. 3.21 The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us not the putting away of the filth of the flesh but the answer of a good conscience towards God by the resurrection of Iesus Christ. Q. 11. What engagements are said on the Baptized A. They are engaged to be the Lords people and walk suitable to that engagement Rom. 6.4 Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father even so we also should walk in newness of life Q. 12. Is Baptism to be reiterated as the Lords Supper A. No for the Lords Supper is a Sacrament for nourishing but this for implantation Rom 6.4 5. Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father even so we also should walk in newness of life For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection Q. 13. Doth Baptism regenerate men and confer saving Grace A. No it doth not in its own vertue convey Grace no more than the Lords Supper but the Spirit of God is the Author of Grace and works it as he pleases before or after Baptism Of the subjects of Baptism Quest. 95. 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 but the infants of such as are members of the visible Church are to be Baptized Q. 1. Who are to be Baptized A. Believers and their insane off-spring Acts 2.39 For the promise is to you and your children and to all that are afar off even as many as the Lord our God shall call Q. 2. How doth it appear that the infant seed of Believers ought to be Baptized A. It appears by this that they being Abrahams Seed were taken into Covenant with God and ordered to have the sign of the Covenant applyed to them and that Grant was never reversed Gen. 17.7 10. And I will establish my covenant between me and thee and thy seed after thee in their generations for an everlasting covenant to be a God unto thee and to thy seed after thee This is my covenant which ye shall keep between me and you and thy seed after thee every man-child among you shall be circumcised Q. 3. But was not that the Covenant of Works and so will not â—old to infer their priviledge under the Covenant of Grace A. No it was not for God never did nor will become a God by way of special interest to any people by vertue of the Covenant of Works since the breach of it by the fall Q. 4. But if it were the Covenant of Grace how doth it appear the right of Believers Infants is still the same it was before in Abrahams time A. It appears plainly from the Apostles own words and arguments Acts 2.39 For the promise is to you and to your children c. Q. 5. But though Infants then were members of Gods visible Church among the Iews how doth it appear they are so now when God hath vast them off A. It appears the membership and priviledges are as sure and ample to them now that are the Children of Gentile-believers as ever they were to the Iewish Infants Rom. 11.17 And if some of the branches be broken off and then being a wild olive-tree wert grafted in amongst them and with them partakest of the root and fatness of the olive-tree Q. 6. How else doth it appear they are within the Covenant A. It appears by this that they are pronounced holy 1 Cor. 7.14 Else were your children unclean but now are they holy Which is a foederal holiness and none out of Covenant can be holy by Covenant Q. 7. But may not that place mean only their legitimacy A. No it cannot for then the Apostle must pronounce all the Infants in the World bastards that descend not at least from one believing Parent Q. 8. But Infants are not capable to Covenant with God or perform Covenant Duties and therefore why should they be admitted to Covenant Priviledges A. A Child now of eight dayes old is as capable of being admitted into Covenant with God as Children of the same age were in Abrahams dayes and then it 's manifest they were admitted Q. 9. Though they were admitted by Circumcision then will it follow they may be so by Baptism now seeing that Ordinance is abolished A. Yes it will for though Circumcision cease yet Baptism is come into its place Col. 2.10 11 12. And ye are complete in him which is the head of all principality and power In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ buried with him in baptism c. Q. 10. But Circumcision was a Seal of the Covenant of Works and the argument will not hold from a Seal of the Covenant of Works to a Seal of the Covenant of Grace A. Circumcision never was nor was intended to be a Seal of the Covenant of Works but of the Righteousness of Faith Rom. 4.11 And he received the sign of circumcision a seal of the righteousness of the faith that he had yet being uncircumcised c. Q. 11. But have we no express command in the New Testament to baptize Infants A. There needed no new command their priviledge had been setled many ages before upon them and never reversed by Christ or his Apostles but their former right declared to continue still to them Acts 2.39 For the promise is to you and your children c. Q. 12. But if they have a right we might expect to find some examples of their baptizing A. 'T is manifest that Believers housholds were baptized with them Acts 16.15 33. And when she was baptized and her houshold c. Ver. 33. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their stripes and was baptized he and all his straightway And if Infants are not named so neither are any of Age born of Christian Parents Q. 13. But many trust to their Infant-baptism as to their Regeneration and so much mischief 's done A. They do so yet the Duty is not therefore to be neglected The preaching of Christ is to some a stumbling block yet Christ must be preached for all that Q. 14. But many baptized Infants prove naught
wavering c. 4. As to our fervency in Prayer Jam. 5.16 The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much Q. 6. Are these external rules and directions sufficient in themselves to enable us to pray acceptably A. In respect of external direction they are sufficient and we need no other outward rules than what the Scriptures furnish but besides that the internal helps and assistances of the Spirit are necessary to the offering up acceptable Prayer Rom. 8.26 Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities for we know not what we should pray for as we ought but the Spirit it self maketh intercession for us c. Q. 7. But doth the Scripture only furnish us with general rules of direction for Prayer A. No it furnishes us also with an excellent pattern and example of Prayer composed by Christ for our direction Mattâ— 6.9 After this manner therefore pray ye Our Father which art iâ— heaven c. Q. 8. Are Christians tyed by a necessity to use that form of words or was it only intended for a directory to them A. That form of words may be lawfully used but it 's plain its intention was to regulate our Petitions by it and thereforâ— they that use it in spells and charms as the Papists or thoâ— that think nothing is Prayer but that form of words 〈◊〉 Christs intention in it Q. 9. How doth it appear it was not Christs intention strictly 〈◊〉 â—ind us to that very form of words in our Prayers A. Divines give us these reasons against it 1. Because thiâ— Prayer is set down diversly by the Evangelist Matth 6. 1â—â— 12. Thy kingdom come thy will be done in earth as it is in heavenâ—â— And forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors And Luke 11.3 4. Give us day by day our daily bread and forgive us 〈◊〉 sins for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us and lead 〈◊〉 not into temptation but deliver us from evil 2. Christ and 〈◊〉 Apostles did not alwayes use this form of words afterwards as appears by his Prayer at Lazarus his grave John 11. and that for his Apostles John 17. 3. Because these words Matth. 6.9 After this manner c. plainly shew its use wa◠〈◊〉 tended for a directory to us Q. 10 What 's the first Inference from hence A. Hence we learn the fulness and compleatness of the Scriâ—â—tures not only for the guiding and setling of our Faith in things that are to be believed but also of our whole practice in every Duty we are to perform Q. 11. What 's the second Inference hence A. Hence we are informed how necessary it is to acquaint our selves with the mind of God revealed in his Word that we may guide our selves in Prayer both for matter and manner thereby and not utter to God words without knowledge Q. 12. What 's the last Inference from hence A. That those who neglect all Prayer and those that satisfie themselves with a form of Prayer which they utter without knowledge or affection do greatly sin against God And that it is the duty of all Christians from a sense of their own sins wants and mercies to be often with God in prayer guiding themselves in that spiritual duty by such inward and outward helps as his word and spirit are able to furnish them with Of the Preface to the Lords Prayer Quest. 100. 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 teacheth us to draw near to God with all holy reverence and confidence as Children to a Father ready to help us and that we should pray with and for others Q. 1. What doth the word Father import in this Preface A. It imports the Spirit of Adoption to be the principle of all acceptable prayers Gal. 4.6 And because ye are sons God hath given forth the spirit of his son into our hearts crying Abba Father Q. 2. What 's the first benefit or heâ—p we have in Prayer from the Spirit of Adoption A. He excites our Spirits to seek God in prayer Psal. 27.8 when thou saidest seek ye my face my heart said unto thee thy face Lord will I seek Q. 3. What 's the second Assistance he gives us in prayer A. He indites and suggests sutable and acceptable matter to us in prayer Rom. 8.26 Likewise the spirit also helpeth our infirmities for we know not what we should pray for as we ought but the spirit it self maketh intercession for us c. Q. 4. What 's the third Benefit we have by him in prayer A. He fills our Souls with spiritual and Holy affections in prayer and helps us to act his Graces in our Duties Rom. 8.26 Likewise the spirit also helpeth our infirmities for we know not what we should ask as we ought but the spirit it self maketh intercession â—or us with groanings which cannot be uttered Q. 5. What else doth this word Father import A. It imports that Holy confidence which Believers may and ought to draw near to God with all as Children to a Father Eph. 3.12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him Q. 6. Doth it only Signify our relation and Confidence A. No it also signifies the reverential fear of God which ought at all times to be on our hearts especially in Prayer Mal. 1.6 A son honoureth his father and a servant his master If then I be a Father where is my honour and if I be a Master where is my fear Q. 7. What is further imported in this word Father A. It imports Gods willingness and readiness to grant the best Mercies to his people that seek them duly at his hand Matth. 7.11 If ye then being evil know how to give good gifts unto your children how much more shall your father which is in Heaven give good things to them that ask him Q. 8. Why is he here called our Father A. To signify to us that it is not only our duty to pray secretly by and for our selves but also with and for others Eph. 6.18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all Saints Q. Why is God said here to be in Heaven A. It is to note his Soveraign power and dominion over all as a ground-work of faith in prayer Q. 9.10 What else doth it import A. The great distance between God and us which should fill our hearts with an holy awe of him Eccles. 5.2 God is in Heaven and thou upon Earth therefore let thy words be few Q. 11. What 's the first Inference from hence A. It shews us what a sad case all those are in that have no special interest in God as a Father Q. 12. What 's the second Inference A. It shews us what a glorious Priviledge the Lord Jesus Christ hath purchased for and setled on his people Heb. 4.15 16. For we