appointed to be the weekly Sabbath A. From the beginning of the World to the Resurrection of Christ God hath appointed the seventh day of the week to be the weekly Sabbath and the first day of the week ever since to continue to the end of the World which is the Christian Sabbath Q. 1. What special marks of honour hath God set upon this fourth Commandment A. God hath set four peculiar marks of honour on it 1. It is the largest of all the Commands 2. It hath a solemn Memento prefixed to it 3. It is delivered both positively and negatively which the rest are not And 4. It is enforced with more Arguments to strengthen the Command on us than any other Q. 2. Wâ—y will God have a Sabbath observed on Earth A. God will have a Sabbath on Earth to give us therein an Emblem of that Eternal Sabbath in Heaven wherein his people shall be serving him and praising him without interruption or mixture of any other business throughout Eternity Hâ—b 4.9 There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God Q 3. For what other Reasons will God have a Sabbath A. He will have a Sabbath for the honour of his name Isa. 58.13 If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath from doing thy pâ—easure on my holy day and call the sabbath a delight the holy of the Lord honourable and shalt honour him not doing thine own ways nor finding thine own pleasure nor speaking thine own words For the good of Mens Souls Mark 2.27 And he said unto them the sabbath was made for man not man for the sabbath And in mercy to the Bodies of Men and Beasts Q. 4. Is this Commandment Moral and Perpetual or Ceremonial and Temporary A. It is and must needs be Moral and not Ceremonial because all the Reasons that enforce it are perpetual and the Sabbath continued when the Ceremonial Law ceased and was vanished Matth. 24.20 But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter neither on the sabbath day Q. 5. What day of the seven is the Christian Sabbath A. The first day of the Week is our Sabbath since the Resurrection of Christ. This is the day which was foretold to be our Sabbath Psal. 118.24 This is the day which the Lord hath made we will rejoyce and be glad in it The Lord hath marked it for himself by setting his own Name on it Rev. 1.10 I was in the Spirit on the Lords day And the Apostles and Primitive Church constantly set it apart to Religious uses and ends Acts 20.7 And upon the first day of the week when the disciples came together to break bread Paul preached unto them c. 1 Cor. 16.2 Vpon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store as God hath prospered him that there be no gatherings when I come Q. 6. When doth the Christian Sabbath begin A. It appears that this day is not to be reckoned from evening to evening but from morning to morning because the Christian Sabbath must begin when the Jewish Sabbath ended but that ended towards the morning Matth. 28.1 In the end of the sabbath as it began to dawn towards the first day of the week came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulchre Q. 7. What is the ground of changing the day A. The solemn commemoration of our Redemption by the Resurrection of Christ from the dead is the ground of translating the Sabbath from the seventh to the first day of the Week Psal. 118.24 This is the day which the Lord hath made we will rejoyce and be glad in it Mark 16.9 Now when Iesus was risen early the first day of the week he appeared first to Mary Magdalene out of whom he had cast seven devils Q. 8. Is it the whole day or only some hours of the day that are set apart for God A. Not a part but the whole day is the Lords and it is as dangerous to halve it with God in point of time as it was for Annanias and Sapphira to halve their dedicated Goods and bring in but a part Remember that thou keep holy the sabbath day is the Command Q. 9. Is there any other day holy besides this A. No day but this is holy by Institution of the Lord yet dayes of Humiliation and Thanksgiving may be lawfully set apart by men on a Call of Providence but Popish Holy-dayes are not warrantable nor to be observed Gal. 4.10 Ye observe dayes and months and times and years Q. 10. But seeing every day should be a Sabbath to a Christian what needs any other set time A. Though Christians must walk every day with God yet every day cannot be a Sabbath because God calls us to other Duties on those dayes but will have this to be a solemn and entire day to himself Q. 11. But if a man scruple the change of the Sabbath may he not keep both dayes weekly A. No for then by doing more than God requires he breaks a plain Command Six days shalt thou labour Q. 12. At what time should Christians be up and at their Duties on the Lords day A. As early in the morning as their strength will permit to prepare by private for publick Duties yet the publick are not to be entrenched on by private Duties Acts 10.33 Now therefore are we all here present before God to hear all things that are commanded thee of God Of the Sabbath Quest. 60. HOw is the Sabbath to be Sanctified A. The Sabbath is to be Sanctified by an holy reâ—ting all that day even from such worldly employments and recreations as are lawful on other days and spending the whole time in the publick and private exercises of Gods Worship except so much as is to be taken up in the works of necessity and mercy Quest. 61. What are the Sins forbidden in the fourth Commandment A. The fourth Commandment forbiddeth the omission or careless performance of the Duties required and the profaning the day by Idleness or doing that which is in it self sinful or by unnecessary thoughts words or works about our worldly employments or recreations Quest. 62. 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 employment his challenging a special propriety in the seventh his own example and his blessing the Sabbath day Q. 1. VVhat is the Rest which God requires on the Sabbath A. It is not a meer natural or civil but an holy rest resembling the rest in Heaven wherein the Mind is most active and busie in the work of God though the Body be at rest and the Spirit not wearied with its work Rev. 4.8 And the four beaâ—â—s had each of them six wings about him and they were full of eyes within and they rest not day and night saying holy holy holy Lord God Almighty which was and is and is to come Q. 2. May
the body of Christ. Q. 2. Cannot false or seeming Grace grow A. It may spring up and seem to flourish for a time but comes not to perfection Luke 8.14 And that which fell among thorns are they which when they have heard go forth and are choaked with cares and riches and pleasures of this tife and bring no fruit to perfection Q. 3. What is the first respect in which Grace grows A. It grows by deeper rooting it self in the Soul Eph. 3.17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith that ye being rooted and grounded in love may be able c. Q. 4. What is the manner of its growth A. It grows in respect of its greater fitness and readiness for acts of Obedience Col. 1.11 Strengthened with all might according to his glorious power unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness Q. 5. What is the third respect or manner of its growth A. It grows in respect of its abilities to fix the mind more steadily on spiritual things Hence grown Christians are called spiritual men Gal. 6.1 Ye which are spiritual restore such an one in the spirit of meekness Q. 6. Why must all true Grace grow A. Because there is a Stature to which Christians are appointed Eph. 4.12 13. Till we all come in the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God unto a perfect man unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ. Q. 7. What are the causes of a Christians growth A. Union with Christ. Iohn 15.4 As the branch cannot bear fruit of it self except it abide in the vine no more can ye except ye abide in me And his Blessings on the Ordinances Isa. 55.10 11. For as the rain cometh down and the snow from heaven and returneth not thither but watereth the earth and maketh it bring forth and bud that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater So shall my word be that goeth out of my mouth it shall not return unto me void but it shall accomplish that which I please and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it And Providences Phil. 1 19. For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayers and the supply of the spirit of Iesus Christ. Q 8. May not true Grace sometimes decay A. Yes it may Rev. 2.4 Neversheless I have somewhat against thee Because thou hast left thy first love But not utterly 1 Iohn 3.9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin for his seed remaineth in him Q. 9. What is the first Inâ—erence from hence A. To bless God for Gospel Ordinances Psal. 92.13 14. Those that be planted in the House of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God they shall still bring forth fruit in old age they shall be fat and flourishing Q. 10. What is the second Inference A. Hence we see the miserable state of them that grow worse and worse Iude Verse 12 These are spots in your feasts of charity when they feasâ— with you feeding themselves without fear Clouds they are without water carried about of winds Trees whose fruit withereth without fruit twice dead pluckt up by the root Q. 11. What is the third Inference A. Christians should not be discouraged at their weakness in Grace for they have a merciful Christ. Isa. 42.3 A bruised reed shall he not break and the smoaking flax shall he not quench he shall bring forth judgment unto truth And a sure Promise Iob 17.9 The righteous also shall hold on his way and he that hath clean hands shall be stronger and stronger Q. 12. What is the last Inference A. That all true Christians draw daily nearer and nearer to the heavenly and perfect State 2 Cor. 4.16 For which cause we faint not but though our outward man perish yet the inward man is renewed day by day Rom. 13.11 Now is our salvation nearer than when we believed Of Perseverance Quest. 1. WHAT is Perseverance to the End A. It is the steady and constant continuance of Christians in the ways of Duty and Obedience amidst all Temptations and Discouragements to the contrary Col. 1.23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and setled and be not moved away from the hope of the Gospel which ye have heard and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven whereof I Paul am made a minister Q. 2. Do all that profess Christ continue in him A. No many that at first zealously profess him afterwards fall away Iohn 6.66 From that time many of his Disciples went back and walked no more with him Q. 3. Why do not all Persevere A. Because all Professors have not a good root and foundation Matt. 13.20 21. But he that received the seed in stony places the same is he that heareth the word and anon with joy receiveth it yet hath he not root in himself but endureth for a while for when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word by and by he is offended Q. 4. What is the First ground of the Saints Perseverance A. God's electing love in which they are given to Christ. Iohn 10.29 My father which gave them me is greater than all and no man is able to pluck them out of my father's hand Q 5. What is the second ground of Perseverance A. The immortal nature of Sanctifying grace Iohn 4.14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life 1 John 3.9 For is seed remaineth in him Q. 6. What is the third ground of it A. The Covenant of Grace Ier. 32.40 I will make an everlasting covenant with them That I will not turn away from them to do them good but I will put my fear in their hearts that they shall not deparâ— from me Q. 7. What is the fourth ground of it A. Christ's effectual Intercession Luke 22.32 But I have prayed for thee that thy faith may fail not Q. 8. Are there no declinings of grace in the saints A. Yes there are Rev. 2.4 Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee because thou hast left thy first love Yet Grace cannot be totally or finally lost For the seed of God remaineth in the sanctified 1 Iohn 3.9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin for his seed remaineth in him and he cannot sin because he is born of God Q 9. Is there no hope of Salvation for final Apâ—states A No the Gospel gives none Heb. 10.38 But if any man draw back my soul shall have no pleasure in him Q. 10. What is the first Instruction hence A. It warns all men to lay a good foundation lest the buildings of hope be overturned when the storm comes Mat. 7.24 25. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine and doeth them I will liken him to a wise man which built his house upon a rock and the rain
not any works of our civil Calling be ordinarily done on that day A. No it is sinful to put our hands ordinarily to our Callings on that day and God usually punishes it Neh. 13.15 16 17 18. In those dayes saw I in Iudah some treading wine-presses on the sabbath and bringing in sheaves and lading asses as also wine grapes and figs and all manner of burdens which they brought into Ierusalem on the sabbath day and I testified against them in the day wherein they sold victuals There dwelt men of Tyre also therein which brought fish and all manner of ware and sold on the sabbath unto the children of Iudah and in Ierusalem Then I contended with the nobles of Iudah and said unto them What evil thing is this that ye do and profane the sabbath day Did not your fathers thus and did not our God bring all this evil upon us and upon this city yet ye bring more wrath upon Israel by profaning the sabbath Q. 3. May we not refresh our Bodies by Recreations or our Minds by thoughts of Earthly Business or Discourses on that day A. Recreations of the Body which are lawful on other days are sinful on this day and all the Recreations of the Mind allowed on this day are Spiritual and Heavenly Isa. 58.13 14. If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath from doing thy pleasure on my holy day and call the sabbath a delight the holy of the Lord honourable and shalt honour him not doing thine own ways nor finding thine own pleasure nor speaking thine own words Then shalt thou delight thy self in the Lord and I will cause thee to ride upon the high places of the earth and feed thee with the heritage of Iacob thy father for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it Q. 4. What works may lawfully be done on that day A. Christs example warrants works of necessity and works of mercy but no other Matth. 12.3 4. But he said unto them have ye not read what David did when he was an hungred and they that were with him How he entered into the house of God and did eat the shew-bread which was not lawful for him to eat neither for them which were with him but only for the priests And ver 7. But if ye had known what this meaneth I will have mercy and not sacrifice c. Q. 5. What are the holy Duties of the Sabbath A. The publick Worship of God in reading and hearing the Word preached Isa. 66.23 And it shall come to pass that from one new moon to another and from one sabbath to another shall all flesh come to worship before me saith the Lord. Luke 4.16 And as his custom was he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day and stood up for to read And Prayer Acts 16.13 14. And on the sabbath day we went out of the city by a river side where prayer was wont to be made c. And receiving the Sacrament Acts 20.7 And upon the first day of the week when the disciples came together to break bread Paul preached unto them c. Q. 6. At private Duties in our Families required as well as publick on the Sabbath A. Yes it is not enough to sanctifie the Sabbath in publick Ordinances but God requires it to be sanctified in Family and private Duties Lev. 23.3 But the seventh day is the sabbath of rest an holy convocation ye shall do no work therein it is the sabbath of the Lord in all your dwellings Q. 7. With what frame of Spirit are all Sabbath duties both publick and private to be performed A. They are to be performed with Spiritual delight Isa. 58.13 If thou turn away thy foot from the sabbath from doing thy pleasure on my holy day and call the sabbath a delight c. And all grudging at and weariness of Spiritual exercises is a sin forbidden Mal. 1.13 Ye said also behold what a weariness is it and ye have snuffed at it saith the Lord of hosts and ye brought that which was torn and the lame and the sick thus ye brought an offering should I accept this of your hand saith the Lord Amos 8.5 When will the new moon be gone that we may sell corn and the sabbath that we may set foâ—th wheat c. Q. 8. What is the first Reason annexed to this Command A. The first Reason is the sufficient and large allowance of time God hath given us for our civil Callings and earthly business Six days in the week is a large allowance Q. 9. What is the second Reason annexed to this fourth Command A. The second Reason is Gods sanctifying and separating this day by a special Command and Institution for his service so that to profane this time is to sin against an express Divine Statute Q. 10. What 's the third Reason annexed to this Command A. The third Reason is Gods own Example who rested the seventh day from all his works and blessed this day by vertue of which Blessing we are encouraged to sanctifie it Q. 11. Is it not enough to sanctifie this day in our own persons A. No if God hath put any under our Authority their profaning the Sabbath will become our sin though we be never so strict in the observation of it our selves Q. 12. May we continue our civil Employments to the last moment of our common time A. Except Necessity or Mercy urge us we ought to break off before and allow some time to prepare for the Sabbath Luke 23.54 And that day was the preparation and the sabbath drew on Q. 13. What is the first Inference fâ—om hence A. That we have all great cause to be humbled for our Sabbath transgressions either in our unpreparedness for it our want of delight and spirituality in it or the due government of our Families as God requires Q. 14. What is the second Inference from hence A. That Christians on the Sabbath day have a fair occasion and help to realâ—ize to themselves the Heavenly state in which they are to live abstract from the World and God is to be all in all to them Of the fifth Commandment Quest. 63. WHich is the fifth Commandment A. The fifth Commandment is Honour thy Father and thy Mother that thy days may be long in the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee Quest. 64. What 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 and relations as superiors inferiors or equals Quest. 65. What is forbidden in the fifth Commandment A. The fifth Commandment forbiddeth the neglecting of or doing any thing against the honour and duty which belongeth to every one in their several places and relations Quest. 66. What is the Reason annexed to the fifth Commandment A. The Reason annexed to the fifth Commandment is a promise of long life and prosperity as far as it shall serve for Gods glory and their own
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
and hastening unto the coming of the day of God c. Q. 11. What is the third Inference A. That Faith is a Grace of absolute necessity and unspeakable excellency Rom. 5.1 2. Therefore being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Iesus Christ. By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand Q. 12. What is the last Inference A. All unbelievers are in a miserable State now Iohn 3.18 He that believeth not is condemned already And worse in the world to come Mat. 25.41 Depart from me ye cursed into everlasting fire prepared for the Devil and his Angels Of the full Enjoyment of God Quest. 1. WHAT doth perfect Blessedness suppose and imply A. It supposes the total Freedom of Believers from all the moral evil of Sin Eph. 5.27 That he might present you to himself a glorious Church not having spot nor wrinkle or any such thing but that it should be holy and without blemish And from all the penal evils of suffering Rev. 21.4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes and there shall be no more death neither sorrow nor crying neither shall there be any more pain for the former things are passed away Q. 2 What else is implied in perfect Blessedness A. It implies the full and perfect enjoyment of God 1 Cor. 15.28 And when all things shall be subdued unto him then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him that God may be all in all Q 3. What is it for God to be all in all A. It implies three things in it First That all the Saints shall be filled and satisfied from God alone Secondly That there shall be no need of other things out of which they were wont to fetch comfort Thirdly That all other things as Heaven Angels Saints should be loved and enjoyed in God Q. 4 In what respect shall they Enjoy God in Heaven A They shall have the glorious and immediate presence of God with them Rev. 21.3 God himself shall be with them and be their God Q 5. In what other respects shall they Enjoy God A They shall see him as he is 1 Iohn 3.2 We shall be like him for we shall see him as he is Q 6. What will such a vision of God produce A It will produce perfect conformity in them to God 1 Iohn 3.2 When he shall appear we shall be like him for we shall see him as he is And perfect joy will result from hence Psal. 16.11 In thy presence is fulness of joy at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore Q. 7. Do not the Saints enjoy God here A. Yes they do but not so as they shall enjoy him in Heaven 1 Cor. 13.12 Now we see through a glass darkly but then face to face now I know in part but then shall I know even as also I am known Q. 8. What are the special differences between the Saints Communion with God here and that in Heaven A. Their Communion with God here is clogg'd with Sin Rom. 7.21 I find then a law that when I would do good evil is present with me Here it is not constant Psal. 22.1 My God my God why hast thou forsaken me Nor is it satisfyîng but in Heaven it will be pure constant and satisfying Q. 9. How long shall they there enjoy God A. Not for days years ages but for ever and ever 1 Thes. 4.17 And so shall we be ever with the Lord. Q 10. What is the first Instruction from hence A. That the World is not the place of the Saints rest and satisfaction Heb. 4.9 There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God 2 Cor. 5.2 6. For in this we groan earnestly desiring to be cloathed upon with our house which is from heaven therefore we are always confident knowing that whilst we are at home in the body we we are absent from the Lord. Q. 11. What is the second Instruction from hence A. That Death is a singular benefit to the Saints and though it be an enemy to Nature yet it is the medium to Glory 2 Cor. 5.4 For we that are in this Tabernacle do groan being burthened not for that we would be uncleathed but cloathed upon that mortality might be swallowed up of life Q. 12. What is the third Instruction hence A. The necessity of Faith and Regeneration in this World None shall be raised up in glory acknowledged acquitted and made perfectly blessed in the full enjoyment of God but Believers Rom. 8.30 Moreover whom he did predestinate them he also called and whom he called them he also justified and whom he justified them he also glorified Heb. 12.14 Follow peace with all men and holiness without which no man shall see the Lord. Of Man's Duty to God Quest. 39. WHAT is the Duty that God requireth of Man A. The Duty whâ—ch God requireth of Man is Obedience to his revealed will Q 1. Is Obedience to God's will the Duty of every Man A. It is unquestionably the Duty of every man to obey the will of God so far as he hath made it known to him Micah 6.8 He hath shewed thee O man what is good and what doth the Lord require of thee but to do justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with thy God Q. 2. On what aâ—count is Man's Obedience due to God A. 'T is due to him First As he is Creator In whom we live and move and have our being Acts 17.27 28. Secondly As he is our Benefactor from whom we receive all our Mercies Deut. 28.47 Because thou servest not the Lord thy God with joyfulness and with gladness of heart for the abundance of all things Therefore shalt thou serve thine enemies which the Lord shall send against thee in hunger thirst and nakedness and in want of all things Thirdly As he is our Lord and Law-giver Iam 4.12 There is one Law-giver who is able to save and to destroy Q. 3. Is Obedience due to none but God only A. Yes subjects must obey their lawful Magistrates Rom. 13.1 Let every soul be subject to the higher powers for there is no power but of God The powers that be are ordained of God People their Ministers Heb. 13.17 Obey them that have the rule over you and submit your selves for they watch for your souls as they that must give an account Children their Parents Eph. 6.1 Children obey your parents in the Lord for this is right But not as they are to obey God Q. 4. What is the difference betwixt our obediencâ— to God's Commands and Men's A. We are to obey God chiefly and supreamly for his own sake 1 Pet. 2.13 Submit your selve to every ordinance of man for the Lords sake And Eph. 6.1 Children obey your parents in the Lord for this is right Q 5. What must we do when the Commands of God and Men fall cross to one another A. In that case we must yield
and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming But assumes Power to dispence with God's Laws to others Q. 8. What is the second Inference hence A. That man dieth not as Beasts die which are under no Moral Law and therefore capable of no sin but must come to Judgment after Death Eccles. 3.21 Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth Heb. 9.27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die but after this the Iudgment Q. 9. What is the third Inference hence A. That though the actions of men naturally considered are transcient yet their consequences and effects are permanent An act is soon done a word soon spoken a thought soon thought but when done spoken or thought they are placed to account Gal. 6.7 8. Be not deceived God is not mocked for whatsoever a man soweth that shall be also reap for he that soweth to the flesh shall of the flesh reaâ— corruption but he that soweth to the spirit shall of the spirit reap life everlasting Q. 10. What is the fourth Inference from hence A. That God will proceed with man by different rules in the Day of Judgment according to the different Law they lived under in this World Rom. 2.12 For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law Q. 11. What is the fifth Inference from hence A. That those who have sinned against the clearest Light and best Helps will if they die impenitent be judged to the greatest Misery Matt. 11.23 And thou Capernaum which art exalted unto heaven shalt be brought down to hell for if the mighey works which have been done in thee had been done in Sodom it would have remained until this day Heb. 2.3 How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation Q. 12. What is the sixth Inference from hence A. That as we are to prize the Moral Law highly as a Rule of Life Psal. 119.105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path So are we to bless God for the Gospel-Dispensation by which only we can attain to Justification and Salvation Heb. 12.22 But we are come to Mount Sion and unto the City of the living God the heavenly Ierusalem to an innumerable company of Angels Of Love to God and Men. Quest. 42. 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 hearts with all our soul with all our strength and with all our mind and our Neighbour as our selves Q. 1. What is the sum of the Ten Commandments A. To love the Lord our God with a Supream love and Men with a Sincere love in and for him Matt. 22.37 38. Iesus said unto him Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul and with all thy mind This is the First and Great Commandment The Second is like unto it Thou shalt love thy Neighbour as thy self Q. 2. What is the first thing contained in our supream Love to God A. It implies the loving of God purely and absolutely for himself The Excellencies that are in him Cant. 1.3 Thy name is as ointment poured forth therefore the virgins love thee And the benefits we receive from him Psal 116.1 I love the Lord because he hath heard my voice and my supplication Q. 3. What is the Second Property of this Supream Love A Supream love devotes the whole man to God and Christ So that in life and death that man designs the Glory of God as his main end Rom. 14.7 8. For none of us liveth to himself and no man dieth to himself for whether we live we live unto the Lord and whether we die we die unto the Lord whether we live therefore or die we are the Lord 's Q. 4. What is the third Property of Supream Love A. It causes the Soul to depreciate and slight all other things in comparison of God's Glory and an Interest in Christ. Acts 20.24 But none of these things move me neither count I my life dear unto my self so that I may finish my course with joy Phil. 3.8 9. I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Iesus my Lord. Q. 5. What is the fourth Property of Supream Love A. It centers the Soul in God as its only rest Psal. 116.7 Return unto thy rest O my soul. And cannot be satisfied till it come to the full enjoyment of him 2 Thes. 3.5 The Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and patient waiting for Christ. Q. 6. Why must we love God with a supream Love A. Because such a love only suits the transcendent Excellency of God Commands all we are and have for God and is the only love that will continue to the end Rom. 8.35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ Q. 7. What is it to love our Neighbour as our selves A. It is the exact Observation and Practice of the golden Rule of Christ. Matt. 7.12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you do ye even so to them for this is the law and the prophets Q. 8. Are all men to be loved alike and with the same degree of Love A. No tho we must love all men with the love of Benevolence yet the Saints only with the love of Complacency Psal. 16.3 But to the saints that are in the earth and to the excellent in whom is all my delight And to such we must especially do good Gal. 6.10 As we have therefore opportunity let us do good unto all men especially unto them who are of the houshold of faith Q. 9. What is the first Instruction from hence A. Hence we learn the excellency of Divine love Moses expresses the Whole Duty of Man in Ten Commandments Christ hangs the Whole Law upon these Two Love to God and our Neighbour Mark 12.30 31. Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart and with all thy soul and with all thy mind and with all thy strength This is the first Commandment And the Second is like namely this Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thy self there is none other Commandment greater than these And the Apostle reduces these Two into One Gal. 5.14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word â—uen in this Thou shalt love thy Neighbour as thy self Q. 10. What is the second Inference from hence A. It convinces the holiest of men how far short they come in their Obedience to the rule of duty and therein the law is our School-master to bring us to Christ. Gal. 3.24 Q. 11. What is the third Inference from hence A. It discovers the excellency and perfection of the Law of God Psal. 19.7 The law of the Lord is pefect converting the soul. And that we are highly to honour
and magnify it as a rule of duty though we must utterly renounce it as the way of our Justification Q. 12. What is the last Inference from hence A. That there is nothing too dear for a Christian in this world but he must give it up by self-denial when it comes in competition with his supream love to God Luke 14.26 If any man come to me and hate not his father and mother wife and children and brethren and sisters yea and his own life also he cannot be my disciple i. e. Love them less than me Of the Preface to the Commandments Quest. 43. and 44. WHAT is the Preface to the Ten Commandments A. The Preface to the Ten Commandments is in these words I aâ— the Lord thy God whâ—ch haâ—e brought thee out of the Land of Egypt out of the House of Bondage What doth the Preface to the Ten Commandments teach us A. The Preface to the Ten Commandments teach us that because God is the Lord and our God and Redeemer therefore we are bound to keep all his Commandments Q. 1. Why doth God use arguments and inducements to win men to the obedience of his laws A. Because he loves to work on man as a rational Creature according to the principles of his Nature Hos. 11.4 I dreâ— them with cords of a man with bands of love And because he delights in none but free and chearful Obedience Psal. 110.3 Thy people shall be willing in the day of thy power Q 2. What is the first argument in this Preface A. It is the sovereignty of the Law-giver I am the Lord which should awe the heart of every man to obedience Iam. 4.12 There is one law-giver who is able to save and to destroy Q 3. What is the second argument to Obedience A. Our propriety in God by Covenant I am the Lord thy God This obligeth to Obedience and aggravateth disobedience Psal. 50.7 Hear O my people and I will speak O Israel and I will testify against thee I am God even thy God Hos. 9.1 Thou hast gone a whoring from thy God Q. 4. What is the third argument unto Obedience A. The benefits of Redemption that they receive from God Benefits perswade to duty and the goodness of God leads to repentance Rom. 2.4 Q. 5. How can deliverance out of Egypt be an argument to them that never were in Egypt A. As that Deliverance was a Type of our Deliverance so 't is an argument to us and an argument from the less to the greater so it obligeth us more than them Luke 1.74 75. That he would grant unto us that we being delivered out of the hand of our enemies might serve him without fear in holiness anâ— righteousness before him all the days of our life Q 6. What is that deliverance we have and how doth it 〈◊〉 us to Obedience A. Our Deliverance is not from Egypt but from Hell Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son Col. 1.13 And our persons are bought by the Redeemer to glorify God 1 Cor. 6.19 What know ye not that your body is the Temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you for ye are bought with a price wherefore glorify God in your body and in your spirits which are Gods Q. 7. Is it not mercenary to serve God upon the account of benefits received or to be received A. He that makes religious Duties Mediums to attain carnal Advantages only is of a worse than mercenary Spirit Hos. 7.14 And they have not cried unto me with their hearts when they howled upon their beds they assembled themselves for corn and wine and they rebelled against me But to be quickened by Mercy to Duty is not mercenary but Evangelical Hos. 3.5 They shall fear the Lord and his goodness Q. 8. What is the first Inference from hence A. That great is the condescention of God to Man that he will use arguments to induce him to obedience who might exact it only by his Sovereignty and justly damn us for our disobedience 2 Cor. 5.20 Now then we are embassadors for Christ as though God did beseech you by us we pray you in Christ's stead be ye reconciled to God Q. 9 What is the second Inference from hence A. That the more mercy any receive from God the more obligations are laid on them to obey him Psal. 116.1 2. I love the Lord because he hath heard my voice and my supplication because he hath inclined his ear unto me therefore will I call upon him as long as I live Q. 10. What is the third Inference from hence A. The more mercies and favours any man sins against the greater is that man's sin and the sorer will be his punishment Amos 3 1 2. You only have I known of all the families of the earth wherefore I will punish you for all your iniquities Q. 11. What is the fourth Inference from hence A. That God's expectations are greater where his mercies and favours have been so Isa. 5.4 What could have been done more to my vineyard that I have not done in it wherefore when I looked that it should bring forth grapes brought it forth wild grapes Q. 12. What is the last Inference from hence A. That memorials of God's Mercies are to be kept by us to provoke us to constant and chearful duties of obedience Exod. 17.14 And the Lord said unto Moses Write this for a memorial in a book and rehearse it in the ears of Ioshua Psal. 103.2 3. Bless the Lord O my soul forget not all his benefits Of the First Commandment Quest. 45. WHich is the First Commandment A. The First Commandment is Thou shalt have no other Gods before me Q. 1. What is the first duty enjoin'd in the first Commandment A. It is to know and acknowledge the Existence or Being of God and consequently condemns all Atheism both in judgment and practice Heb. 11.6 He that cometh to God must believe that he is and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him Psalm 14.1 The fool hath said in his heart there is no God Q. 2. What is the second duty of the First Commandment A. It requires all men to know and acknowledge the unity of God Deut. 6.4 Hear O Israel the Lord our God is one Lord. And condemns Polytheism or plurality of Gods 1 Cor. 8.5 6. For tho' there be that are called Gods whether in heaven or in earth as there be Gods many and Lords many but to us there is but one God Q. 3. Whence sprang the Opinion of more Gods than one at first in the world A. It sprang from ignorance of God's Omnipresence and Omnipotence Hence came their vain imaginations Rom. 1.21 Because that when they knew God they glorified him not as God neither were thankful but became vain in their imaginations and their foolish heart was darkened They thought the presence and power of God might reach one place and not
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
ability Gen. 47.12 And Ioseph nourished his father and his brethren and all his fathers houshold with bread according to their families Q. 8. What shall Children do when Parents abuse their Authority by forbidding Duty or commanding Sin A. In such cases Children are to obey God rather than their Parents Acts 4.19 But Peter and Iohn answered and said unto them Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God judge ye But yet to manage their refusals of Obedience with all Meekness and Humility Q. 9. What is the first duty of Husbands to their Wives A. The first â—uty on which all other Duties depend is cohabitation with them 1 Pet. 3.7 Likewise ye husbands dwell with them according to knowledge c. And nothing can make this Duty void but a lawful divorce for Adultery Matth. 5.31 32. But I say unto you that whosoever shall put away his wife saving for the cause of fornication causeth her to commit adultery c. Q. 10. What 's the Husbands second Duty to his Wife A. True and hearty love to Soul and Body Eph. 5.25 Husbands love your wives even as Christ also loved the church and gave himself for it Evidencing it self in careful provision for them 1 Cor. 7.33 But he that is married careth for the things of the world how he may please his wife But especially to their Souls in winning them to Christ 1 Cor 7.16 Or how knowest thou O man whether thou shalt save thy wife And building them up in Christ 1 Pet. 3.7 Likewise ye husbands dwell with them according to knowledge giving honour unto the wife as unto the weaker vessel and as being heirs together of the grace of life that your prayers be not hindred Q. 11. What are the Duties of Wives to their Husbands A. 'T is their Duty 1. To be in subjection to their own Husbands Eph. 5.22 23. Wives submit your selves unto your own husbands as unto the Lord For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the Church 2 To reverence them Eph. 5.33 And the wife see that she reverence her husband 3. To express their Reverence in suitable Words and Actions 1 Pet. 3.6 Even as Sarah obeyed Abraham calling him Lord c. 4. To be faithful to them Prov. 31.12 She will do him good and not evil all the dayes of her life 5. To adorn their Relation with meekness and quietness of Spirit 1 Pet. 3.4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart in that which is not corruptible even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit which is in the sight of God of great price Q. 12. What are the Duties of Servants to their Masters A. 'T is their Duty 1. To be faithful in all things committed to their charge Tit. 2.10 Not purloining but shewing all good fidelity c. 2. To honour them in all respectful Words and Carriages 1 Tim. 6.1 Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour c. 3. To bear patiently their rebukes 1 Pet. 2.18 19. Servants be subject to your masters with all fear not only to the good and gentle but also to the froward For this is thank-worthy if a man for conscience toward God endure grief suffering wrongfully Q. 13. What is the first Duty of Masters to their Servants A. Their first Duty is to rule over them with gentleness and not with terrour and rigour Eph. 6.9 And ye masters do the same things unto them forbearing â—oreatning Knowing that your master also is in heaven neither is there respect of persons with him Q. 14. What 's the second Duty of Masters to their Servants A. To pay them their Wages fully and without delay Deut. 24.14 15. Thou shalt not oppress an hired servant that is peer and needy whether he be of thy brethren or of thy strangers that are in thy land within thy gates At his day thou shalt give him â—is hire neither shall the sun go down upon it fâ—r he is poor and setteth his heart upon it lest he cry against thee unto the Lord and it be sin unto thee And to provide Food for them convenient Prov. 27.27 And thou shalt have goats-milk enough for thy â—â—od for the food of thy houshold and for the maintenance for thy maidens Q. 15. What 's the third Duty of Masters to their Servants A. The third and principal Duty is to engage them as much as in them lies to the wayes of God and Duties of Religion as Abraham did Gen. 18.19 For I know him that he will command his children and his houshold after him and they shall keep the way of the Lord c. And Ioshua Josh. 24.15 But as for me and my house we will serve the Lord. Of the sixth Commandment Quest. 67. WHich is the sixth Commandment A. The sixth Commandment is Thou shalt not kill Quest. 68. What is required in the sixth Commandment A. The sixth Commandment requireth all lawful endeavours to preserve our own life and the life of others Quest. 69. What is forbidden in the sixth Commandment A. The sixth Commandment forbiddeth the taking away of our own life or the life of our Neighbour unjustly or whatsoever tendeth thereunto Q. 1. What is the natural order of these Commandments in the second Table A. In these Commands God begins with the nearest concern of Man which is Life Iob 2.4 Skin for skin yea all that a man hath will he give for his life Next to that his Command guards his nearest Relative from whom the best outward comfort is to rise his Wife Mark 10.8 And they twain shall be one flesh c. After that his good Name which is very precious to him Eccles. 7.1 A good name is better than precious oyntment And then his Goods which support his life Isa. 3.1 For behold the Lord the Lord of hasts doth take away from Ierusalem and from Iudah the â—â—ay and the staff the whole stay of bread and the whole stay of water Q. 2. How far doth this Command extend it self A. It prohibits all Crueltâ— and commands all Help Care and Pity so far as Mens hearts and hands can go for the relief and preservation of others Psal. 119.96 But thy commandment is exceeding broad Q 3. Doth this Command respect only the outward action or also the inward passion of the Soul A. It respects and bridles the inward Passion of the Soul as well as outward Actions as Hatred 1 Iohn 3.15 Whosoever hateth his brother is a murderer c. And causless Anger Matth. 5.22 But I say unto you that whosoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment c. Q. 4. Doth this Command only respect the lives of others A. No it primarily respects our own lives and forbids us all things that tend to the shortening and ruin of them Eph. 5.29 For no man ever yet hated
and prayer some concomitant as due diligence and retention and some subsequent as practise Q. 3. What is due preparation â—or hearing A. It consists in serious consideration of the greatness and holiness of that God whom we approach in hearing the Word Acts 10.33 Now therefore we are all here present before God to hear all things that are commanded thee of God And awing the heart even to a degree of holy trembling thereby Isa. 66.2 To him will I look even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit and trembleth at my word Q. 4. What 's the principal consideration thus to awe the heart A. The Word is in its own nature an heart-searching Word Heb. 4.12 For the word of God is quick and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit and of the joynts and marrow and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart And that eventually 't will be the savour of Life or Death to us 2 Cor. 2.16 To the one we are the savour of death unto death and to the other the savour of life unto life c. Q. 5. What else belongs to due preparation to hear A. The discharging of the heart from worldly cares Matth. 13.7 And some fell among thorns and the thorns sprang up and choaked them And carnal lusts Iam. 1.21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness and receive with meekness the engraffed word which is able to save your souls Q. 6. What 's the third act of due preparation A. Longing after the Word for further communications of Grace by it 1 Pet. 2.2 As new born babes desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby Isa. 2.3 And many people shall go and say come ye and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord to the house of the God of Iacob and he will teach us of his wayes and we will walk in his paths for out of Zion shall go forth the law and the word of the Lord from Ierusalem Q. 7. What 's the second antecedent duty of hearing A. Prayer is an antecedent duty to hearing the Word and that both for the assistance of the Minister 2 Thess. 3.1 Finally brethren pray for us that the word of the Lord may have free course and be glorified even as it is with you And our own illumination Psal. 119.18 Open thou mine eyes that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law Q. 8. What else should we pray for A. That God would pour out his Spirit with the Word according to that promise Prov. 1.23 I will pour out my spirit unto you I will make known my words unto you Q. 9. Doth unpreparedness for the Word alwayes hinder its efficacy on the heart A. No God sometimes is found of them that sought him not Isa. 65.1 I was found of them that sought me not c. But it is a sin to neglect it and needs a pardon of God Q. 10. What 's the first motive to prepare for solemn duties A. That it argues the sincerity of the heart and in that case God will be merciful to infirmities 2 Chron. 30.18 19. For a multitude of the people even a multitude of Ephraim and Manasseth Issachar and Zebuluâ— had not cleansed themselves yet did eat the passover but not as it is written Wherefore Hezekiah prayed for them saying the good Lord be merciful towards him that prepareth his whole heart to seek the Lord God the God of his fathers though he be not cleansed according to the purification of the sanctuary Q. 11. What 's the second motive A. 'T is a sweet sign that God will make that duty successful for which the heart is prepared Psal. 10.17 Thou preparest their heart thou bendest thine ear to them Q. 12. What 's the third motive to preparation A. The majesty and jealousie of God to whom we approach obliges us to solemn preparation Heb. 12.28 29. Whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear for our God is a consuming fire Q. 13. But must a man neglect the duty if his heart be not duly prepared for it A. No for that would be to add a new sin to a former and aggravate it the more Q. 14. In what manner must the prepared heart go to the word A. Not in dependance on its own preparations but upon the Spirits assistance Psal. 71.16 I will go forward in the strength of the Lord God c. Q. 15. What 's the first act of Faith due to the Word A. The assenting act of Faith is required to the Word read or preached whereby we acknowledge it to be of Divine Authority 2 Tim. 3.16 And without controversie great is the mistery of godliness God was manifest in the flesh justified in the spirit seen of angels preached unto the Gentiles believed on in the world received up into glory 2 Pet. 1.21 For the prophesie came not in old time by the will of man but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost Q. 16. What 's the second act of Faith required of us A. An applying act of Faith is also required of us Rom. 15.4 For whatsoever things were written afore-time were written for our learning that we through patience and comâ—ort of the scriptures might have hope Q. 17. What 's the first end in applying the Word A. It is first to be applyed to our conviction both of sin and misery Acts 2.37 Now when they heard this they were pricked in their heart and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles men and brethren what shall we do Q. 18. What 's the second end or use of applying it A. It must be applyed for our guidance and direction to Christ Iohn 6.4 5. Every man therefore that hath heard and hath learned of the father cometh unto me Q. 19. What 's the third use to which it must be applyed A. We must apply it for our direction through the whole course of Christian Duties 2 Pet. 1.19 We have also a more sure word of prophesie whereunto ye do well that ye take heed as unto a light that shineth in a dark place until the day dawn and the day star arise in your hearts Q. 20. What other use must we apply it to A. It must be applyed for our comfort in all inward and outward troubles Rom. 15.4 For whatsoever things were written afore time were written for our learning that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope Q. 21. On what account are we to receive it with love A. We are to love it for its Authors sake because it 's the Word of God Psalm 119.159 Consider how I love thy precepts c. Q. 22. What 's the second motive of love to the Word A. The holiness and purity of it deserves and engages our love to it Psal. 119.140 Thy word is very pure therefore thy
A. And so do many baptized at Age too Duties are not to be measured by events What is the Lords Supper Quest. 96. WHat is the Lords Supper A. The Lords Supper is a Sacrament wherein by giving and receiving Bread and Wine according to Christs appointment his Death is shewed forth and the worthy receivers are not after a corporal and carnal manner but by Faith made partakers of his Body and Blood with all his benefits to their spiritual nourishment and growth in Grace Q. 1. By whose authority is the Lords Supper instituted and appointed A. By the soveraign authority of Christ the King of the Church and not by the pleasure of man 1 Cor. 11.23 For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you that the Lord Iesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread Q. 2. Of what parts doth this Sacrament consist A. It consists of two parts one earthly and visible to wit Bread and Wine the other spiritual and invisible the Body and Blood of Christ 1 Cor. 10.16 The cup of blessing which we bless is it not the communion of the blood of Christ the bread which we break is it not the communion of the body of Christ Q. 3. How do these earthly and heavenly things become a Sacrament A. By the word of institution and blessing coming from Christ upon them 1 Cor. 11.23 24 25. For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you that the Lord Iesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread And when he had given thanks he brake it and said Take eat this is my body which is broken for you this do in remembrance of me After the same manner also he took the cup when he had supped saying This cup is the new testament in my blood this do as oft as ye drink it in remembrance of me Q. 4. When did Christ ordain and institute this Sacrament A. He instituted it in the same night he was betrayed 1 Cor. 11.23 The Lord Iesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread It could not be sooner because the Passover must be first celebrated and by the institution of this abrogated Nor later for soon after he was apprehended Q. 5. What doth the time of its institution teach us A. It teacheth us how great Christs care and love to his people is that he makes in his Ordinance such provision for our comfort though he knew his own bitter agony was just at hand Q. 6. What is the general use and end of this Sacrament A. It is to confirm seal and ratifie the New Covenant to Believers 1 Cor. 11.35 This cup is the new testament in my blood this do ye as oft as ye drink it in remembrance of me Q. 7. What are the particular ends and uses of it A. The first particular end and use of it is to bring Christ and his Sufferings afresh to our remembrance 1 Cor. 11.24 25. This do in remembrance of me Q. 8. What kind of remembrance of Christ is here intended A. Not a meer speculative but an affectionate heart-melting remembrance of him like that of Peter Matth. 26.75 And Peter remembred the words of Iesus which said unto him before the cock shall crow thou shalt deny me thrice And he went out and wept bitterly Or of Ioseph Gen. 43.29 30. And Ioseph made haste for his bowels did yern upon his brother and he sought where to weep and he entred into his chamber and wept there Q. 9. What doth this end of the Sacrament imply A. It implyes this that the best of Gods people are too apt to forget Christ and what he hath endured and suffered for them Q. 10. What else doth it imply A. It implies this that none but those that have the saving knowledge of Christ and have had former acquaintance with Christ are fit for this Ordinance for no man can remember what he never knew 1 Cor. 11.28 But let a man examine himself and so let him eat of that bread and drink of that cup. Q. 11. What 's the second particular use and end of this Sacrament A. It is to represent Christ to Believers as an apt sign of him and of his Death and that both memorative significative and instructive Q. 12. How is it a memorative sign of Christ A. It brings Christ to our remembrance as his Death and bitter Sufferings are therein represented to us by the breaking of Bread and pouring forth of Wine 1 Cor. 11.26 For as often as ye eat this bread and drink this cup ye do shew forth the Lords death till he come Q. 13. How is it a significative Ordinance A. It is a significative Ordinance not only as it represents Christs sufferings but the Believers union with him as the head and with each other as members of his body 1 Cor. 10.61 17. The cup of blessing which we bless is it not the communion of the blood of Christ The bread which we break is it not the communion of the body of Christ For we being many are one bread and one body c. Q. 14. In what respect is it an instructive sign A. It is an instructive sign in divers respects namely First As it teaches us that Christ is the only nutritive bread by which our Souls live Iohn 6.51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven If any man eat of this bread he shall live for ever and the bread that I shall give is my flesh which I shall give for the life of the world And Secondly As it instructs us that the New Testament is now in its full force by the death of Christ the Testator Heb. 9.16 17. For where a testament is there must also of necessity be the death of the testator For a testament is of force after men are dead otherwise it is of no force at all whilst the testator liveth Thus much of the Author Nature and Ends of the Lords Supper Of the Elements Actions and Subjects of it Q. 1. ARe not Bread and Wine too small and common things to represent the body and blood of Christ A. Though a bit of Bread and a draught of Wine be things of small value in themselves yet they are great in respect of their use and end A penny-worth of Wax is a small thing in its self but being applyed to the Label of a Deed may be advanced to the worth of thousands of pounds as it receives the seal to a great inheritance Q. 2. Is not the bread in the Sacrament turned into the very body of Christ it self by Transubstantiation A. No it is not but the Elements retain still their own proper Nature of Bread and Wine after the words of Consecration and are so called 1 Cor. 11.26 For as often as ye eat this bread c. Matth. 26.29 But I say unto you I will not henceforth drink of this fruit of the vine until that day when I drink
it new with you in my Fathers kingdom Q. 3. What is the first argument by which Protestants confute the Popish Doctrine of Transubstantiation A. The first Argument against it is taken from the end of the Sacrament which is to bring Christs Body and Blood to our remembrance 1 Cor. 11.24 25. This do in remembrance of me Now signs for remembrance are of things absent not present Q. 4. What 's the second Argument A. Because the language in which our Saviour spake had no other property of expression there being no other word for signifie but is in stead thereof as is manifest in both Testaments Gen. 41.27 And the seven ill-favoured kine that came up after them are seven years of famine Rev. 1.20 The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches and the seven candlesticks which thou sawest are the seven churches Q. 5. What 's the third Argument against Transubstantiation A. The manifold gross absurdities that naturally and necessarily follow on this Doctrine shew the falseness of it and that it is justly rejected and abhorred by all sound Christians Q. 6. What 's the first absurdity that follows it A. This Doctrine allows that to a silly Priest which is not to be allowed to all the Angels in Heaven It allows him power to make his Maker and eat his God And in justifying this by the Omnipotency of God they say no more than what a Turk may say to justifie the most ridiculous fooleries of the Alcoran Q. 7. What 's the second absurdity of Transubstantiation A. The second absurdity is this that it denies the truth of the testimony given by the senses of all men that it is real Bread and real Wine after Consecration and not Flesh and Blood And if the testimony of sense be not certain then the being of God cannot be proved by the things that are made contrary to 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 c. Nor the truth of Christs Resurrection by seeing and feeling contrary to Luke 24.39 Behold my hands and my feet that it is I my self handle me and see c. Q. 8. What 's the third absurdity of Transubstantiation A. The third absurdity is this that in affirming the accidents of Bread and Wine to remain and their substance to vanish they affirm that there is length breadth thickness moisture and sweetness and yet nothing long broad thick moist or sweet which is a perfect contradiction Q. 9. What 's the fourth absurdity of Transubstantiation A. It implies that the entire living body of Christ sate at the Table and at the same time was dead and in the Disciples mouths and stomachs in the first Sacrament and that in all after Sacraments it is wholly in Heaven and wholly in as many thousand places in the World as there are Sacraments administred Q. 10. What doth the breaking of this bread and pouring out of wine in the Sacrament signifie A. It signifies the violent painful death and bitter sufferings of Christ for us 1 Cor. 11.26 For as often as ye eat this bread and drink this cup ye do shew the Lords death till he come Q. 11. What doth the giving and taking of the Sacramental bread and wine signifie A. These actions signifie Gods exhibiting and the Believers applying of Christ and all his benefits to their Souls Q. 12. Who are fit subjects to receive the Lords Supper A. None that are grosly ignorant scandalous or unbelievers in their Natural state for such cannot examine themselves as the Word requires 1 Cor. 11.28 But let a man examine himself and so let him eat of that bread and drink of that cup. But do eat and drink Judgment to themselves 1 Cor. 11.29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily eateth and drinketh damnation to himself not discerning the Lords body Q. 13. Are morally honest and sober persons qualified for this Sacrament A. No Civility and Morality do not qualifie persons they are not the Wedding-garment but regenerating Grace and Faith doth in the smallest measure Matth. 22.12 And he saith unto him friend how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment c. 1 Cor. 10.16 17. The cup of blessing which we bless is it not the communion of the blood Christ the bread which we break is it not the communion of the body of Christ For we being many are one bread and one body for we are all partakers of that one bread Of the Duties of Communicants Quest. 97. 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 knowledge to discern the Lords Body of their Faith to feed upon him of their Repentance Love and new Obedience lest coming unworthily they eat and drink judgment to themselves Q. 1. What are the Duties of worthy receivers A. There are three sorts of Duties incumbent on them some antecedent to it some concomitants of it and some subsequent to it Q. 2. What are the antecedent Duties to it A. They are two 1. Examination of their Graces 2. Preparation of their Souls Examination of their Graces 1 Cor. 11.28 29. But let a man examine himself and so let him eat of that bread and drink of that cup. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily eateth and drinketh damnation to himself not discerning the Lords body And preparation of their Souls 1 Cor. 5.8 Therefore let us keep the feast not with old leaven neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth Q. 3. What 's the first Grace to be tryed A. Our saving knowledge of God in Christ without which we cannot discern the Lords Body 1 Cor. 11.29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily eateth and drinketh damnation to himself not discerning the Lords body Q. 4. What are we to enquire of touching our knowledge of God in Christ A. We are to examine whether it be competent for quantity and savingly operative and influential on the Heart and Life for quality Hos. 4.6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge c. 1 Cor. 13.1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels and have not charity I am become as a sounding brass or tinkling cymbal Q. 5. When is knowledge competent and influential A. When we truly understand by the teachings of the Father the sin and misery of the Fall the nature and necessity of Christ and under these convictions come to him in the way of Faith Iohn 6.45 Every man therefore that hath heard and hath learned of the Father cometh unto me And subject our selves to him in sincere obedience Matth. 11.28 29. Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest Take my yoke upon you and learn of me for I
am meek and lowly in heart and ye shall find rest unto your souls Q. 6. What are we to examine our selves about besides knowledge A. We are obliged to examine our selves about our Faith whether we have it in any saving degree 2 Cor. 13.5 Examine your selves whether ye be in the faith prove your selves c. For without Faith we cannot please God Heb. 11.6 But without faith it is impossible to please God c. Nor enjoy Spiritual Communion with Christ Eph. 3.17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith that ye being rooted and grounded in love Q. 7. What other Grace must be examined and sought for A. We must examine our Love to Christ and all that are his because no gifts signifie any thing without Love 1 Cor. 13.2 And though I have the gift of prophesie and understand all mysteries and all knowledge and though I have all faith so that I could remove mountains and have no charity I am nothing Q. 8. What else must worthy receivers examine themselves about A. The sincerity of their hearts evidenced by their Obedience without which they cannot worthily approach the Table 1 Cor. 5.8 Therefore let us keep the feast not with old leaven neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth Q. 9. But if upon examination we are in doubts about our Faith and Sincerity must we forbear A. If our doubts arise from the weakness and not the total want of Grace such doubts should not hinder us Rom. 14.1 Him that is weak in the faith receive you c. Q. 10. What is the danger of coming to the Lords Table without these Graces A. The danger is exceeding great to Soul and Body 1. To the Soul 1 Cor. 11.29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily eateth and drinketh damnation to himself c. And to the Body 1 Cor. 11.30 For this cause many are weak and sickly among you and many sleep Q. 11. What are the Duties of worthy receivers at the Lords Table A. Their Duties at the Table are to discern Christ by the eye of Faith under those signs of his Body and Blood 1 Cor. 11.29 For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily eateth and drinketh damnation to himself not discerning the Lords body On the discovery of him to mourn bitterly for sin Zech. 12.10 And they shall look upon me whom they have pierced and they shall mourn for him as one mourneth for his only son and shall be in bitterness for him as one that is in bitterness for his first-born And to excite all their Graces into vigorous acts for the applying Christ to themselves Cant. 4.16 Awake O north wind and come thou south blow upon my garden that the spices thereof may flow out c. Q. 12. What is the Duty of worthy receivers after the Sacrament A. Their Duty is heartily to bless God for Christ and the benefits of his Blood Matth. 26.30 And when they had sung an hymn they went out into the mount of Olives To double their care and watchfulness against sin Ephes. 4.30 And grieve not the holy spirit whereby ye are sealed to the day of redemption And to grow more fruitful in all spiritual obedience Col. 1.10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God Q. 13. What is the first Inference from hence A. That the abuse and profanation of this Ordinance either by coming to it for carnal ends or being forced upon it by fear of sufferings or approaching to it without due qualifications is a dreadful sin which God will terribly avenge Matth. 22.11 12 13. And when the king came in to see the guests he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment And he saith unto him friend how camest thou in hither not having on a wedding garment and he was speechless Then said the king unto the servants bind him hand and foot and take him away and cast him into outer darkness there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth Q. 14. What 's the second Inference from it A. That great and manifold are the blessings and advantages which Christians duly prepared may reap by this Ordinance Of Prayer Quest. 98. WHat is Prayer A. Prayer is an offering up of our desires unto God for things agreeable to his Will in the name of Christ with confession of our sins and thankful acknowledgment of his mercies Q. 1. Who is the proper and only object of Prayer A. God only is the proper object of Prayer it is a part of his Natural Worship therefore 't is peculiarly his Honour and Prerogative and none else can hear and answer them but God Psal. 65.2 O thou that bearest Prayer unto thee shall all flesh come Q. 2. Through whom or in whose name are our Prayers to be directed to God A. Our Prayers are to be directed to God only through Christ and his Name and not by the mediation of Angels or Saints Col. 2.18 Let no man beguile you of your reward in a voluntary humility and worshiping of angels For the merit and satisfaction of Christ alone give success and acceptance to our Prayers Rev. 8.3 4. And another angel came and stood at the altar having a golden censer and there was given unto him much incense that he should offer it with the prayers of all the saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne And the smoke of the incense which came with the prayers of the saints ascended up before God out of the angels hand 1 Tim. 2.5 For there is one God and one mediatour between God and men the man Christ Iesus Q. 3. What 's the first property or quality of acceptable Prayer A. No Prayer can be acceptable to God except the matter of it be agreeable to his Will Iam. 4.3 Ye ask and receive not because ye ask amiss that ye may consume it upon your lusts 1 Joh. 5.14 15. And this is the confidence that we have in him that if we ask any thing according to his will he beareth us And if we know that he hear us whatsoever we ask we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him Q. 4. Is it enough to make Prayer acceptable that the matter is agreeable to Gods will A. No it is not for the manner as well as the matter must be so too Psal. 66.18 If I regard iniquity in my heart the Lord will not hear me Q. 5. What 's the first qualification of an acceptable Prayer respecting the manner of it A. That it be sincere and flowing from the heart of a regenerate person Prov. 15.29 The Lord is far from the wicked but he heareth the prayer of the righteous Jer. 29.13 And ye shall seek me and find me when ye shall search for me with all your hâ—art Q. 6. What 's the second qualification of Prayer respecting the manner A. It