VVhy did Christ change the Administration of the Covenant A. For his own glory and the Churches good for 1. Those Ordinances under the Old Covenant were more dark difficult costly and weak than these under the New Covenant 2. Those Ordinances became unsuitable and unserviceable to the Church after Christ's coming in the flesh because they signified Christ to come therefore when Christ the Substance of them was come those Sadows must be done away Q. 45. How hath God confirmed the Covenant of Grace A. God hath confirmed it by 4 things 1. By his Word of Promise Gen. 17.7 2. By his Oath Gen. 22.16 17. Hebr. 6.13 14 17 18. 3. By the death of Christ Heb. 9.16 17. 4. By the Signs and Seals of the Covenant Rom. 4.11 Q. 46. VVhat are the Signs and Seals of the New covenant of grace now in Gospel days A. The Signs and Seals of the New Covenant are Baptism and the Lord's Supper Q. 47. VVhy are these Ordinances called Signs and Seals of the Covenant A. Because they are of the same signification and use to the Covenant of Grace as Signs and Seals put to Covenants between Man and Man use to be Q. 48. VVhat is their signification use A. These Ordinances as Signs do signifie the Grace and Good-will of God in Christ to his Covenant-people and as Seals do confirm conveigh and apply the Grant of the Covenant or a Right to all the Blessings promised therein to Belieâ—ers and their engagement to Obedience 1 Pet. 3.21 Rom. 6.3 4. Gal. 3.27 Q. 49. Do these Sacraments certainly â—ork grace in all that receive them A. No. It is evident that many of â—ose who are baptized and have receiâ—ed the Lord's Supper live and dye in a â—aceless state Acts 8.23 Luke 13.26 27. Q 50. Who then do receive saving beneby the Sacraments A. Those only receive saving benefit the Sacraments to whom the holy Spiâ—â—â— of God doth bless them working in â—â—d by them on their Hearts as he doth 〈◊〉 all God's Elect 1 Cor. 3.7 Q. 51. What is Baptism A. Baptism is an holy Ordinance of frist wherein the washing with Water 〈◊〉 or into the Name of the Father the 〈◊〉 and the Holy Ghost signifies and seals 〈◊〉 ingrafting into Christ Remission of 〈◊〉 by his Blood and Regeneration by Spirit and whereby the Persons bapâ—â—ed are solemnly entred into the visible Church and into an open and professed engagement to be wholly and only God's Covenant-people Matth. 28.19 Gal. 3.27 Mark 1.4 Rev. 1.5 Tit. 3.5 Eph. 5.26 1 Cor. 12.13 Rom. 6.4 5. Q. 52. What be the Parts of Baptism A. They are two The outward and visible part signifying and the inward and spiritual part signified Q 53. What is the outward signifying part of Baptism A. The outward signifying part of Baptism consists in the washing the Body with the Element of Water and the use of the words of Institution i e. Baptizing c. Q. 54. What is the inward part signifieâ— by the outward signs A. 1. By the washing with Water iâ— signified two things the washing awaâ— of the guilt of our sins or our Pardon and Justification procured by the blood oâ— Christ and the washing away of the filtâ— of sin or our Sanctification by the Spirâ—â— of Christ in the work of Regeneration Rom. 1.5 John 3.5 2 By the words of Institution i e. Baâ—tizing in the Name of the Father Son 〈◊〉 Holy Ghost two things are also signifieâ— 1. That Ministers have Authoriâ— both from God the Father Son and Holy Ghost to administer Baptism 2. That the Persons baptized do enter into an holy Covenant with God the Father Son and Holy Ghost i e. They take this only living and true God to be their own and only God and give up themselves if grown Persons or are given up by their Parents if Infants to this God to be his Covenant-servants Matth. 28.18 19. 2 Cor. 8.5 Q. 55. What are the special Ends of Baptism A. The special Ends of Baptism are of two sorts 1. Such as respect God and so it is to be 1. A Sign to signifie the Grace of the Covenant and 2. A Seal to confirm the Grant of the Covenant Rom. 4.11 Col. 2.11 12. Acts 22.16 Eph. 5.26 2. Such as respect Man and so it is to be 1. A Badge of our Christian Profession 2. A Bond to oblige us to perform the Duties of the Covenant Gal. 5.3 Rom. 8.12 1 Pet. 3.21 Q. 56. To whom is Baptism to be Administred A. Baptism is not to be administred to any that are out of the visible Church of Christ until they are instructed in the Christian Religion and profess Faith in Christ and Obedience unto him But the Infants of such as are Members of the visible Church are to be baptized Matth. 28.19 Acts 2.41 Gen. 17.7 10. Acts 2.38 39. Q. 57. How may it be proved that the Infants of Church-Members have a Right to Baptism A. It may be proved by these Arâ—guments 1. By their Covenant Relation to God Those that are in Covenant have a right to the Signs and Seals of the Covenant But the Children of believing Parents are in Covenant Therefore they have a right to the Signs and Seals of it Gen. 17.7 Deut. 29.10 11 12 13 14 15. Q. 58. Have Infants then a Right to the Lord's Supper also and should they receive it A. The Infants of Believers have a remote tho' not an immediate and actual right to the Lord's Supper therefore may not receive it in their Infancy for want of a capacity to discern the Lord's Body or to understand the Nature Use and Ends of that Ordinance and to use it accordingly Q. 59. Should they not then be kept from Baptism also for the same Reason seeing they understand not that Ordinance A. No. For they are as capable of Receiving this Ordinance of Baptism as the Jewish Infants were of Circumcision at 8 days old and ought to be baptized because Baptism comes in the room of Circumcision and as that was the Sacrament of Initiation or Entrance into the Church and into the Covenant so is this Matt. 28.19 20. Col. 2.11.12 Q. 60. By what other Argument is it proved A. 2. By the Command of our Lord Jesus Christ requiring his Apostles and in them all Gospel-Ministers to Disciple all Nations Baptizing them and Infants are a very considerable part of Nations Q. 61. But must they not believe first and then be baptized as Mark 16.16 And how can Infants believe A. Adult or grown Persons without the Church must first be instructed in the Doctrine of Christ and believe in him before they are admitted to Baptism as Acts. 2.38 39 40 41. But the Infants of Church-Members may be baptized tho' they do not actually believe because they are the Children of Believers seeing Children are parts of their Parents are accounted but as one Person with them both by the Laws of God and Man as the Root Branches are but one
do believe in Christ with their hearts and obey him in their lives Q. 107. Who are Heart-covenanters with God A. Those who truly repent of their sins against God Renounce the World the Flesh and the Devil and take God the Father the Son and the Holy Ghost for their only God and chief Good their Father Redeemer and Sanctifier and give up themselves to fear love and obey him according to his Word and this unto the Death Isa 44.5 and 56.4 Q. 108. How may we know that we are in Covenant with God A. We may know it by these three things 1. By our sincere consenting to the Covenant or choosing the living and true God to be our God and giving up our selves to be his People Q. 109. How else A. 2. By our holy care to keep Covenant with God and to perform the Duties which he requireth of us therein Q. 110. How else A. 3. By God's gracious performance of the Promises of his Covenant to our Souls in giving us the Saving Blessings promised to his Covenant-People Q. 111. What are the Blessings which God hath promised in the Covenant of Grace A. God hath promised grace and glory all that is needful and good both temporal spiritual and eternal Blessings Psal 84.11 1 Tim. 4.8 Q. 112. What he the Spiritual Blessings that God hath promised to them in this life A. These especially God hath promised to give them 1. His Holy Spirit to teach sanctifie assist guide and comfort them Ezek. 36.27 John 14.16 17 26. Q. 113. What else A. The enlightning of their Minds with Saving Knowledge Isa 54.13 Heb. 8.11 Q. 114. What else A. The renewing of their Wills or Hearts Ezek. 36.26 and 11.19 20. Q. 115. What else A. The putting of his Law in their inward Parts and writing it in their hearts Heb. 8.10 Q. 116. What else A. The putting his Fear in their hearts to keep them from departing from him Jer. 32.40 Q. 117. What else A. The Justification of their Persons pardoning their Sins and Accepting them as Righteous in Christ Isa 53.11 Jer. 31.34 Rom. 3.24 25 26. Q. 118. What else A. The Sanctification of their Natures Ezek. 36.25 Q. 119. What else A. Adoption to be the Children of God 2 Cor. 6.18 Q. 120. How may we know whether we have the Spirit of God or no A. We may know it by the Operations Fruits or Effects of the Spirit in us which are such as these Light Life Love Liberty Joy Peace Long-suffering Gentleness Goodness Faith Repentance Hope Meekness and Temperance 2 Cor. 4.6 2 Cor. 3.6 Gal. 2.20 and 5.22 23. Q. 121. How may we know whether we have a new Heart A. 1. By the uprightness singleness and sensibleness or tenderness of our hearts Psal 7.10 Ezek. 11.19 2. By the Conformity of our Hearts to the Law of God when it is the bent desire delight of our Hearts to do the Will of God and please him in every thing Psal 119.6 8 16. Acts 13.22 Psal 40.8 Q. 122. Who must judge of this inward invisible Right to the Lord's Supper A. Every particular Christian ought to examine and judge of his own inward and invisible Right by the help of God's Spirit and the Rule of his Word 1 Cor. 11.28 1 Cor. 2.11 12. Q 123. Wâ—at is a Gospel-fitness or preparedness for this Ordinance A. There is a twofold Gospel fitness for it 1. A fitness of our State or Condition 2. A fitness of our Frame or Disposition Both these must be had to make us worthy Guess at this Holy Table of the Lord. Q. 124. Who are in a fit State or Condition for this Ordinance A. All such and only such as are in a state of Saving Grace or the Childern of God by Regeneration and so qualified with those Graces that are needful and useful for a right receiving of this Ordinance and a spiritual profiting by it 2 Cor. 13.5 Q. 125. What is Saving-Grace A. Saving Grace is a Principle of Spiritual Life wrought in the Hearts of God's Elect by the Holy Spirit and usually by the Ministry of the Word whereby they are effectually inclined and enabled and do sincerely endeavour to obey the whole revealed Will of God in Heart Lip and Life 2 Pet. 1.4 Eph. 4.18 Col. 3.16 Heb. 12.28 John 17.17 Rom. 15.16 1 Cor. 4.15 Heb. 13.12 Q. 126. How may we know that we have Saving-Grace A. We may know it by the good Fruits and Effects of it which are especially these two 1. Saving Grace turns the Heart from all sin and sets it against sin so that such a Man doth not only forbear sin but hates it and seeks the utter destruction of it in his Heart and Life by all good means Ezek. 18.30 Psal 119.104 Matth. 26.41 Col. 3.5 2. Saving Grace turns the Heart unto God and Godliness strongly and constantly inclines it to that which is good and makes us fit and ready to and active in good Works enables us cheerfully to obey the Will of God's Precept and patiently to submit to the Will of his Providence Eph. 2.10 Isa 55.7 Psal 119 112. Tit. 3.1 Acts 21.13 Tit. 2.14 Q. 127. What are the particular Graces or gracious Qualifications that fits us for a worthy partaking of the Lord's Supper A. They are especially these seven Knowledge Faith Repentance Love New Obedience Thankfulness Holy Desire or a Spiritual Appetite to this Ordinance 128. What Knowledge should we have A. A competent measure of Knowledge of the Fundamental or Principal Truths of the Christian Religion or of such things as are revealed in the holy Scriptures necessary to make us wise unto Salvation Prov. 19.2 Eph. 1.17 Col. 1.9 3.10 Q. 129. What are the Truths that we should especially know A. Some Truths concerning God some concerning Man some concerning the Covenant between God and Man and some concerning the Sacraments or Seals of the Covenant Q 130. What should we know concerning God A. We should know something concerning his Essence or Nature something concerning his Will and something concerning his Worship Q. 131. What should we know concerning the Essence or Nature of God A. These four things 1. That God is or that there is a God Heb. 11.6 Q. 132. What else A. 2. That God is One or that there is only One true God and no more Deut. 6.4 Jer. 10.10 Q. 133. What else A. That this One God subsisteth in three distinct Persons called by distinct Names in Scripture The Father the Son and the Holy Ghost or Spirit Matth. 28.19 1 Joh. 5.7 Q. 134. What else A. 4. That this One God is a most pure invisible Spirit or a Being that cannot be seen by our Eyes John 4.24 1 Tim. 1.17 and 6.16 Q. 135. By What hath God made himself known to us A. God hath made himself known to us two ways 1. By his written Word 2. By his Works Q. 136. What doth the Word make known to us concerning the Nature of God A. The Word
makes known to us the Names Titles and Attributes of God by which his Nature is in some measure discovered Q. 137. What are the Names or Titles of God A. He is called Jehovah Jah and in Scripture which signifieth his Essence or Self-existence that he hath his Being in and of himself and gives Being to all other Beings He is the Eternal I am He is called God Almighty or All-sufficient The most High God Possessor of Heaven and Earth The Lord of Hosts The God of Gods The King of Kings and Lord of Lords These and many other Titles are given to God in Scripture Exod. 6.3 and 34.6 Gen. 17.1 and 14.19 Exod. 3.1 Isa 14.27 Deut. 10.17 1 Tim. 6.16 Q. 138. What are the Attributes of God A. God's Attributes are certain Properties Perfections or Excellencies in his Nature or Essence whereby he is distinguished from all other Beings Q. 139. How are God's Attributes distinguished each from other A. They are distinguished into two sorts his Absolute and his Relative Attributes Q. 140. Which are God's Absolute Attributes A. Such as are only in God and of which there is no Resemblance in any Creatures Q. 141. Which is the first A. His Simplicity or Freedom from all Composition He is a most absolute simple and pure Spirit without Body Parts or Passions Deut. 4.15 16. Luke 24.39 Q. 142. Which is the second A. His Infinity God is infinite that is without Bounds of Place Time or Perfection He is in all places at once yet not comprehended in any place He was before all Time is in all Time and will be when Time shall be no more And so perfect that he cannot be more perfect in all Excellencies And therefore no Man nor Angel can fully understand and comprehend what God is Psal 147.5 Jer. 23.23 1 Kings 8.27 Psal 139.7 c. Psal â—0 2 and 145.3 Job 11.7 8 9. Q. 143. Which is the third A. His All-sufficiency God is sufficient or himself and for all his Creatures and â—ust needs be so seeing he is infinite in Wisdom Power Goodness in all Perections Gen. 17.1 2 Cor. 11.8 12.9 Q. 144. Which is the fourth A. His Independency God hath no â—ependence on any other Being but all other Beings have their whole dependence on him both for Subsistence Supplies Powers and Actions Acts 17.25 Neh. 9.6 Rom. 11.36 Q. 145. Which is the fifth A. His Immutability or Unchangeableness God is always the same and subject to no Change Mal. 3.6 Jam. 1.17 Heb. 13.8 Q. 146. Which are God's Relative Attributes A. Such of which there is some Resemblance in the reasonable Creatures Angels and Men. Q. 147. Which be they A. 1. His Life He is the Living God Psal 42.2 Q. 148. Which is another A. 2. His Will He worketh all things according to the Councel of his Will Eph. 1.11 Q. 149. Which another A. 3. His Wisdom and Knowledge Hâ— is the only wise God 1 Tim. 1.17 Q. 150. Which is another A. 4. His Power Which signifie both 1. His Authority and Dominion oveâ— all his Creatures Psal 103.19 Dan. â— 34 35. Jude v. 25. 2. His Strength or Might He can do what ever he will Job 42.1 2. Matth. 19.26 Q. 151. Which is another A. 5. His Holiness He is most holy and pure Psal 23.3 Isa 6.3 Q. 152. Which is another A. 6. His Justice He is most Just and Righteous Deut. 32.4 Psal 11.7 and 92.15 Q. 153. Which is another A. 7. His Goodness He is most good This comprehends both 1. The Love 2. The Graciousness 3. The Mercy 4. The Patience of God Psal 119.68 Exod. 34.6 1 Joh. 4.8 Psal 103.8 and 145.8 Q. 154. Which is another A. 8. His Truth and Faithfulness He â—s most true both in Himself his Word â—nd Works John 17.3 Deut. 32.4 John 17.17 Psal 33.4 Q. 155. Are these Relative Attributes â—n God as they are in Man A. No. In God they are his very Esâ—ence or Nature for whatever is in God is God But in Man they are Quaties In God they are most perfect he 〈◊〉 so merciful and just that he cannot be â—ore so But in Man they are imperfect are but some degrees of Mercy and Justice in him 1 John 4.8 Q. 156. What are the Works of God whereby he makes himselfe known A. They are either 1. His Works before time call'd his Decrees whereby he purposed in himself from all Eternity what he would do in time 2. His Work in time which are the Executions oâ— Performances of his Decrees which comprehend both his Works of Creation and his Works of Providence Eph. 1.11 Heb. 11.3 and 1.3 Psal 103.19 Q. 157. What may we learn of God bâ— his Works A. By the Works of God we may learâ— somewhat of the glorious Perfections 〈◊〉 his Nature his Wisdom Power Holine 〈◊〉 Justice Goodness and Truth but hâ— Holy Word discovers them more cleaâ—ly and fully to us Rom. 1.20 Ps 104.2 Q. 158. What is a Person in the Diviâ— Nature A. A Person in the Divine Nature is distinct Subsistence or Being having tâ— whole Nature of God but distinguishâ— each from other by their order inconâ— municable Properties and manner 〈◊〉 working John 14.9 10. Heb. 1.3 Q. 159. What is the Order of the Holy Trinity A. God the Father is the first Person God the Son is the second Person and God the Holy Ghost is the third Person Q. 160. What are their incommunicable Properties A. It is the Property of the Father to beget the Son the Property of the Son to be begotten of the Father and the Property of the Spirit to proceed from the Father the Son Joh. 1.14 and 15.26 Q. 161. What is their manner of working A. God the Father worketh from himself God the Son worketh from the Father God the Holy Ghost worketh both â—rom the Father and the Son John 5.26 Q. 162. VVhat should we know concerning the first Person in the Trinity A. Four things especially 1. That he is called God the Father â—ecause he is the Father of the Lord Jeâ—â—s Christ by an inconceivable Generatiâ—n and because he is the Father of all â—ther Beings by Creation John 20.17 â—eb 12.9 Rom. 11.36 Q. 163. VVhat else A. 2. That he created all things in the beginning of time and having made man after his own Image he covenanted or promised to continue him in his happiness provided man continued in his Obedience Gen. 1.27 31. and 2.16 17. Q. 164. VVhat else A. 3. That Man breaking that Covenant by his Disobedience and so making himself liable to Death it pleased God to pitty his fall'n and sinful Creature to contrive a way of Salvation for him by virtue of a second Covenant in and through the Lord Jesus Christ as a Redeemer Gen. 3.15 John 3.16 Q. 165. VVhat else A. 4. That God the Father first promised in the fulness of time sent forth his only begotten Son the Lord Jesus Christ into the World to be Man's Redeemer
and Saviour Gen. 3.15 12.3 Isa 9.7 John 3.16 Gal. 4.4 Q. 166. VVhat should we know concerning the second Person in the Holy Trinity A. These four things especially 1. That he freely undertook this great Work of Man's Redemption engaged himself by Covenant to God the Father for the faithful performance of it Isa 49.1 2 3 6 7 8. c. and 42.6 7. Ps 40.7.8 Q. 167. VVhat else A. 2. That in order to the performing of this Work he took our Nature into Union with his Divine Nature so was and is both God and Man in one Person John 1.14 Rom. 9.5 1 Tim. 2.5 Q. 168. VVas it needful that the Redeemer should be Man A Yes because Man had sinned so it was just that the Nature which had sinn'd should suffer satisfie for Sin Heb. 2.14 Q. 169. VVas it needful that the Redeemer should be God also A. Yes Because he could not else have been able to undergo the Wrath of God due to us for sin nor would his Sufferings have been of sufficient value and virtue to procure Salvation for us Q 170. VVhat else should we know of this second Person A. 3. That he as our Redeemer performs the Offices of a Prophet Priest King to deliver sinful Men from their Ignorances Sin and Slavery to bring them to compleat and eternal Salvation Acts. 3.22 Heb. 5 6. Psal 2.6 Q. 171. What else A. 4. That he procureth by his Blood and Merit many precious Benefits for his Redeemed ones to be enjoyed some in this World and others in the World to come Eph. 1.3 Q. 172. What are those Benefits or Blessings A. The Principal Benefits procured by Christ for his Redeemed Ones are Justification Adoption and Sanctification with many others that do either accompany or flow from them or certainly follow them sufficient Grace on Earth and eternal Glory in Heaven 1. Cor. 1.30 John 1.12 Rom. 5.1 2 5. Mat. 10.32 1 John 3.2 1 Thes 4.17 Q. 173. What should we know concerning the third Person in the Holy Trinity A. These four things especially 1. That he inspired all the holy Prophets and Apostles revealed God's Mind and Will to them and by them to the Church and assisted all the Penmen of the Holy Scriptures in Writing them both as to Matter and Words 2 Tim. 3.16 2 Pet. 1.21 Q. 174. VVhat else A. 2. That he was first promised by Christ and after his Ascension sent both by the Father and the Son to supply the Churches spiritual Wants in Christ's bodily Absence from it John 14.16 17. and 16.7 Acts 2.1 2 3 4. 175. VVhat else A. 3. That he doth bless the Word Ordinances of Christ and make them effectual Means of Grace to the Elect working Faith in them thereby uniting 'em to Christ in their effectual Calling so applies to them the Redemption purchased by Christ with all the Saving Benefits of his Mediatorship 1 Cor. 3.7 Psal 19.7 Rom. 1.16 Eph. 2.8 Tit. 3.5 Rom. 8.30 Q 176. VVhat else A. 4. That he doth dwell in all that are effectually called drawn to Jesus Christ leading quickning comforting them and carrying on the Work of Grace and Sanctification unto Perfection to prepare them for Glory Rom. 8.9.11 13 14 15 16 John 14.16 Q. 177. What should we know concerning the VVill of God A. We should know that God hath fully revealed his Holy Mind and Will to us in the Scriptures of the Old New Testament to be the only perfect perpetual Rule of our Faith and Obedience which therefore we ought to know believe and obey in order to the pleasing and glorifying of God and the saving of our own Souls Mich. 6.8 Gal. 6 16. Deut. â—2 46 Matth. 28.20 Deut. 12.32 Q. 178. VVhat should we know concerning the VVorship of God A. We should know that this one God is to be worshipped and served by us both publickly in the Church privately in our Families secretly in our Closets And that his Worship is to be performed from a right Principle Grace in our Hearts by a right Rule the written Word of God to a right End the Glory of God in our Salvation and through the Mediator Jesus Christ Matth. 4.10 6.6 Jer. 26.2 Josh 24.14 15. John 4.24 Heb. 12.28 Col. 3.17 Heb. 13.15 Q. 179. VVhat should we know concerning Man A. His four-fold Estate viz. 1. His good Estate by Creation 2. His evil Estate by Transgression 3. His Holy Estate by Regeneration 4. His happy Estate by Glorification Q. 180. VVhat was Man's Estate by Creation A. Man was created after the Image of God in Knowledge Righteousness and Holiness had Dominion over all the Creatures in this lower World and enjoyed many other Priviledges and Blessings which made his Condition truely happy Gen. 1.26 Col. 3.10 Eph. 4.24 Psal 139.15 8.4 6 7 8. Eccl. 7.21 Gen. 2.9 c. Q. 181. VVere all Mankind concerned in the state of Adam A. Yes Adam being a publick Person the general Parent or Root of all Mankind the Blessings bestowed on him were also bestowed on them as being his Children and then in his Loins Heb. 7.9 10. Q. 182. VVhat is Man's Estate by Transgression A. Man by transgressing the Command of God in Eating the forbidden Fruit lost the Image of God all the Priviledges and Blessings of the state of Innocency brought himself into a guilty filthy and accursed state Rom. 3.9 10 c. Psal 5.3 Rom. 3.19 Eph. 2.3 Gal. 3.10 Q. 183. Are all Mankind concerned in this state of Adam A. Yes All Mankind being in Adam's Loins and under the same Covenant with him sinned against God in him and so fell with him in his first Transgression Rom. 5.12 18 19. Q 184 VVhat is Man's Estate by Regeneration A. Man by Regeneration is recovered out of his sinful and miserable state into a state of Grace and Mercy hath the Image of God renewed upon him is brought under the Covenant of Grace hath thereby a right to all the Priviledges and Blessings of the Children of God Acts 26.17 18. Col. 3.10 Eph. 4.24 Heb. 8.8 c. Eph. 1.2 Q 185. Are all Mankind brought into this state of Regeneration A. No. Only those are brought into this estate that are chosen of God from all Eternity given to Jesus Christ as to their Redeemer and Saviour Eph. 1.4 5. 1 Tim. 1.9 John 6.37 Q. 186. VVhat shall Man's Estate by Glorification be A. Man shall be made perfectly Holy and Happy both in Soul and Body in the full Enjoyment of God in Heaven that to all Eternity Heb. 12.23 Phil. 3.21 1 John 3.2 1 Thes 4.17 Q. 187. Shall all Mankind be brought into this state of Glorification A. No. Only those that are made truly gracious here shall be made glorious hereafter Matth. 25.46 Heb. 12.14 Rom. 8.30 Q. 188. What should we know concerning the Covenants between God and Man the Sacraments or Seals of the Covenants
I subjoyn another Thâ—â— all the Pastors of Churches may fully and faithfully obey that Precept of the Chief Shepherd John 21.15 16. requiring them to feed his Lambs as well as his Sheep I shall close with a word or two of Counsel Reader if thou art yet weak in spiritual Knowledge and willing to be instructed that thou mayst be made wise to Salvation let me beseech thee to follow this faithful Advice 1. Labour for a distinct and methodical Knowledge of the great Foundation-Truths of the Christian Religion those first Principles of the Oracles of God drawn up to thine hand in many more general Catechisms especially I recommend to thy use that excellent Catechism of the Assembly of Divines both shorter and larger a little Labour will commit the lesser to thy memory and read the other with diligence to explain that with Mr. Lyes Mr. Doolittles and Mr. Vincents Explanations The Knowledge of these Truths will prepare thee to read the holy Scriptures and hear Sermons with Vnderstanding and Profit Next I offer thee the serious perusal of this Sacramental Catechism in the composure of which I have purposely left out several Questions very proper to have been inserted because they are already answered in the Assemblies Catechism Say not thou art too old to learn a Catechism if ignorant unless thou thinkest thy self also too old to go to Heaven and so too old to learn the way thither Be not ashamed of using the means to get Knowledge but be â—shamed of thy Ignorance and blush to bear a Child of Seven years old that hath been well catechised give a better account of the Christian Faith than many of 30 40 or of 50 years of Age can do 2. Pray earnestly and daily for the inward teachings of God's holy Spirit in and with the outward teachings of the Word without this tho thoâ— may'st fill thy Head with the Notions of Truth ye thou wilt never feel the saving Impressions of theâ— on thy heart but remain a stranger to the life anâ— power of Godliness Read those precious promises and humbly plead them in prayer Prov. 1.23 Isaâ— 59.21 Luk. 11.13 3. And lastly Believe the Truths which thou haâ—â—â—earnt and live according to the Rule of them Le Knowledge and Practice as an holy Taine gâ—â—â—nd in hand and stilt keep pace each with other â—â—â—h of them are required as necessary qualification to entitle thee to true happiness John 13 17. O dâ— not aim at any thing short of that The Experimental and Practical Christian will be found to be the wisest and best in the great discriminating Day Thaâ— thou may'st be such an one and that thy Meditation may contribute somewhat thereto is the sincere anâ— fervent Prayer of Decemb. 19. 1691. Thine and the Churche in Christ George Day A SACRAMENTAL Catechism Quest 1. WHat is a Sacarment in general Answ A Sacrament is an holy Ordinance of Divine Institution annexed to the Covenants which God hath made with Men wherein by outward and sensible signs the Promises of the Covenant are represented sealed and applied to God's Covenant-people and they are bound to obey him Gen. 17.10 Rom. 4.11 Q. 2. Are these Ordinances call'd by the name of Sacraments in the holy Scriptures A. No. Yet seeing it is a word very fit to signifie the thing to which it is applied it may lawfully be used Q. 3. What is the original and proper signification of the word Sacrament A. As it was used of old in a civil sense it signified an Oath taken in War by Souldiers to their General whereby they were bound to perform the Duties of that Relation Q. 4. Why are the Seals of God's Covenants called Sacraments A. Because by our receiving them we are bound as it were by an Oath to perform the Duties of God's Covenant-people Rom. 6.3 4 5. Q. 5. What are the parts of a Sacrament A. Two The one is an outward visible sign or thing signifying which may be seen by the Eye of the Body as Water in Baptism and Bread and Wine in the Lord's Supper The other is the inward and spiritual grace or thing signified which can only be seen by the Eye of the Soul or by Faith and that is Christ with all his saving Benefits Matth. 3.11 1 Pet. 3.21 Rom. 2.28 29. Q. 6. Do all those who receive the outward signs receive the inward grace also A. No. For wicked and graceless persons may receive the outward signs but not the inward grace with them none but true believers receive them both Q. 7. What is a Covenant in the general A. A Covenant is a solemn Contract or Agreement between several persons two at the least wherein they do mutually bind themselves each to other in certain Articles to both their Contents and usually confirmed by signs and seals Gen. 21.27 1 Sam. 18 3. Q 8. Hath God ever made a Covenant with Man A. Yes Tho God be infinitely above Man yet he hath been pleased through condescending grace to deal with Man in this familiar way of Covenanting as a Man with his Friend Gen. 15.18 Q. 9. VVhat Covenants hath God made with Man A. Two especially The first called the Covenant of Works The second The Covenant of Grace Gal. 4.23 24. Q. 10. What is the Covenant of Works A. That Covenant which God made with our first Parents Adam and Eve in the estate of Innocence and in them with all their Children wherein God promised perfect happiness to them upon Condition of their perfect Obedience to him and threatned them with Death on their Disobedience Gen. 2.16 17. Gal. 3.12 Q. 11. Why is this called the Covenant of Works A. Because it required the Works of Man's Obedience to the whole Law of God as the Condition of his Life and Happiness Lev. 18.5 Q. 12. Had our first Parents sufficient strength to perform that Condition and keep that Covenant with God A. Yes Our first Parents being created upright and perfect had sufficient power to perform perfect Obedience to the Law of God and so to keep his Covenant Eccl. 7.29 Q. 13. Did our first Parents keep their Covenant with God A. No. Our first Parents brake their Covenant with God by complying with the Temptation of Satan in eating the forbidden Fruit and thereby brought themselves and all the Children descending from them by ordinary Generation into an estate of sin and misery Gen. 3. begin Rom. 5.12 Q. 14. Doth God suffer Adam and all his Children to perish in their sinful and miserable state A. No. God did of his own free grace from all Eternity elect some of fall'n Mankind to everlasting life and gave them to Jesus Christ that they might be recoveted and saved by him Eph. 1.4 Q. 15. Did the Lord Jesus Christ then undertake to be a Saviour to them A. Yes There was an Eternal Compact or Agreement between God the Father and God the Son which is commonly called the Covenant of Redemption wherein God the Father gave the
Elect unto God the Son as to a Redeemer and he engaged to perform the work of their Redemption Isa 59.20 21. Psal 89.3 4 19 20 c. Q. 16. Did God make another Covenant with Man after the first was broken A. Yes God was pleased to make a second Covenant with Man called the Covenant of Grace Gen. 17.2 7. Q. 17. VVhat is this Covenant of Grace A. The Covenant of Grace is that which God made with Man in his fall'n sinful state wherein God thro' the Merits and Mediation of Jesus Christ promiseth Pardon and Life unto all penitent and believing sinners Acts 2.37 and 16.30 Q. 18. VVhy is this call'd the Covenant of Grace A. 1. Because all that is promised in it is the fruit of God's free grace in Christ to sinners 2. Because it is the free grace of God that inclined God to make it and that perswades and enables us to consent to it and to keep it Eph. 2.8 Q. 19. What is the condition of this Covenant on Man's part A. The great comprehensive Condition of its Faith in Jesus Christ which if it be true and saving is accompanied with Repentance and all other Graces in the Heart and brings forth new Obedience in the Life John 3.16 Acts 20.21 James 2.18 Q 20. How can it be call'd a Covenant of Grace if it is Conditional A. Very well For 1. It is an Act of God's free grace and infinite Condescension in God to make a Covenant with Man his Creature whatever the Condition be 2. The Condition it self is gracious Faith in Christ 3. God himself hath graciously undertaken for both Parts of the Covenant his own and ours too and by his grace perswades and enables us to consent to the Covenant and perform the condition of it Q. 21. Is any Man able to perform this Condition in his own strength A. No. we are in our natural state both unwilling to consent to and unable to perform the Condition of this Covenant but God is pleased to make his Elect both willing and able by his special Grace Psal 110.3 2 Cor. 3.5 and 12.9 Phil. 4.13 Q. 22. What are the Differences between the Covenant of Works and the Covenant of Grace A. These Ten especially 1. The Covenant of Works was made between God and the first Adam with all his Natural Seed i.e. all Mankind But the Covenant of Grace was made between God and the second Adam i.e. the Lord Jesus Christ and all his Spiritual Seed i e. All God's Elect which are only some of Mankind Q. 23. What is another A. 2. That was made with Man in a state of Innocency This was made with Man in a state of sin Q. 24. What is another A. 3. The Condition of that was perfect Obedience the Condition of this is Faith Q. 25. What is another A. 4. Under that Man was entrusted with the keeping of himself and his own happiness under this he is kept by the power of God Q. 26. VVhat is another A. 5. Under that Man was to be justified by his own Righteousness under this by the Righteousness of Christ Q. 27. VVhat is another A. 6. Under that the least sin was a breach of the Covenant under this nothing but Unbelief and final Perseverance therein is a breach of the Covenant Q. 28. VVhat is another A. 7. That promised not pardon to the sinner upon Repentance this doth Q. 29. VVhat is another A. 8. That was of use only for a little time untill Man's Fall this hath been of use ever since and will be to the end of the World Q. 30. VVhat is another A. 9. That was especially designed for the glory of God's Justice this for the Glory of God's Mercy Q. 31. VVhat is another A. 10. That had no Mediator or Surety this hath a Mediator and Surety the Lord Jesus Christ Q. 32. VVhat doth Christ do as Mediator of the Covenant A. Christ as Mediator of the Covenant being himself both God and Man performs the great Work of Reconciling God and Man whom sin had made Enemies and brings them into a Covenant of Grace and Peace each with other 1 Tim. 2.5 Hebr. 8.6 c. 9.15 Q. 33. VVhat doth Christ do as the Surety of the Covenant A. Christ as the Surety of the Covenant undertakes to see the Covenant faithfully and fully performed i e. That God shall perform his Promises to his Elect and that they shall perform the condition of the Covenant unto God Hebr. 7.22 Q. 34. Hath the Covenant of Grace been always the same or divers A The Covenant of Grace hath been always the same as to the Substance of it but it hath been different as to the manner of its Administration or Dispensation so is distinguished into the Old New Covenant of Grace Jer. 31.31 Hebr. 8.13 Q. 35. Which is called the Old Covenant of Grace A. That which was Administred before the Coming of Christ in the Flesh Q. 36. Which is call'd the New Covenant of Grace A. That which is Administred since the Coming of Christ in the Christian Church Q. 37. VVherein doth the Administration of the New Covenant differ from that of the Old A. 1. In the easiness of it That was Administred by Promises Prophesies Sacrifices and other Types which were costly painful and burthensome Sacrificâ—e But this is administred by the preaching of the Word and dispensing of the Sacraments Baptism and the Lord's Supper which are sewer in number and more eâ—sily performed Gal. 5.1 Acts 15.9 Q. 38. VVherein else A 2. In the clearness of it That was Administred by dark Types and Figures which were shadows of good things then to come but this is Administred by light and clear Ordinances by which Christ and his Benefits are more plainly revealed to us Hebr. 10.1 2 Tim. 1.10 2 Cor. 3.18 Q. 39. VVherein else A. 3. In the efficacy and power of it That was weak and unprofitable incomparison of this Because the Spirit of God was not given to the Church in so large a measure before Christ as it is since Hebr. 7.18 Acts 2.17 John 7.39 Q. 40. VVherein else A. 4. In the visible Seals of it That had Circumcision the Passover for its Seals this hath Baptism and the Lord's Supper Q. 41. VVherein else A. 5. In the Latitude and Extent of it That extended peculiarly to the Jews this extends both to the Jews and Gentiles Rom. 9.4 Eph. 2.12 13 14 15. Col. 3.11 Mark 16.15 Acts 10.34 35 36. Q. 42. VVherein else A. 6. In the Duration and Continuance of it That was to continue but until Christ came in the Flesh but this is to continue untill Christ comes in glory Q. 43. Who changed the Administration of the Covenant A. The Lord Jesus Christ himself who is the only Head and Lawgiver of his Church and so hath power to Alter or Add lay aside or set up such Laws and Ordinances in it as he pleaseth Heb. 8.8 9 10. James 4.12 Q. 44.
Jer. 31.18 Q. 238. Wherein doth the Nature of true Repentance consist A. In these three things 1. In a deep Conviction of sin 2. In an hearty Contrition or godly Sorrow for sin 3. In a thorow Conversion or Turning from sin to God Acts 2.37 Psal 38.18 Ezek. 18.30 Q. 239. When is our Conviction of sin such as it ought to be A. When we understand and are duly sensible of the greatness of the Evil of sin Gen. 37.9 Q. 240. Wherein doth the evil of sin consist A. 1. In its odious Nature as being contrary both to the Holy Nature Revealed Will and Righteous Law of God Eph. 4.18 Col. 1.21 Rom. 8.7 1 John 3.4 2. In its hurtful Fruits and Effects as bringing the Soul under guilt filth and slavery and making it liable to temporal spiritual and eternal Punishments Rom. 3.19 Job 15.16 2 Pet. 2.19 Rom. 6.23 Q. 241. When is our Contrition or Sorrow for sin such as it ought to be A. 1. When it is a sorrow for sin as sin or as it is contrary to the Nature and Will of God Psal 51.4 2. When it is universal sorrow for all sins at all times Psal 38.18 119.136 3. When it is the greatest sorrow we have both as to degree and continuance Zech 12.10 4. When it worketh repentance or forsaking of sin 2 Cor. 7.10 Q. 242. When is our Conversion from sin unto God such as it ought to be A. When we are turned from all sin unto God both in heart and life Ezek. 8.31 Rom. 6.4 Q. 243. When is the heart turned from sin to God A. When the Heart is turned from the Darkness of sin to the light of Grace or from ignorance to knowledge in the things of God Acts 26.18 Eph. 5.8 2. When the Heart is turned from a Death in Sin to the Life of Grace Eph. 2.1 2. 2. When the Heart is turned from the love of sin to the hatred of it Ps 119.104 4. When the Heart is turned from the reigning power of sin and brought under the Government of God Acts 26.18 Rom. 6.17 18. Q. 244. When is the life turned from sin unto God A. When we do in our practices and course of life deny all ungodliness and worldly lusts and live soberly righteously and godly in this present world Tit. 2.12 Q. 245. What are the Fruits and Companions of true Repentance A. Such as these 1. A free and full Confession of sin with its aggravation unto God and also unto Men when duly called to it 1 Tim. 1.13 James 5.16 2. A Judging and Condemning sin and our selves for sin Dan. 9.7 8. 3. A Loathing of sin and of our selves for sin Ezek. 20.43 4. An holy shame upon the remembrance of sin Ezek. 16.61 5. A just Indignation against and zealous Revenge upon sin in mortifying of it 2 Cor. 7.11 6. Making Restitution or Satisfaction for sin though not to God yet to Men if it be in our power for the wrong we have done to them either in Souls or Body Estates or good Names Luke 19.8 7. An holy desire and carefulness to avoid sin and please God 2 Cor. 7.11 8. A holy Fear and Watchfulness against sin and temptations for time to come 2 Cor. 7.11 The Examination of Love Q. 246. How may we know whether our Love to God the Father Son Spirit be true A. By the Rise or Grounds of it by the Nature of it and by the Properties of it Q. 247. Whence doth our Love to God arise A. 1. From a fight or discovery of the Loveliness of God or the surpassing Excellencies of his Nature apprehended by Faith Psal 8.1 45.2 Cant. 5.10.16 2. From a Taste or Experience of the Goodness and Mercy of God and Manifestations of his Love to our Souls Cant. 1.3 3 4 5. Luke 7.38 Q. 248. Wherein doth the Nature of this Love of God consist A. In the Soul 's going out toward God as the chief Good by several steps or degrees As 1. In a Love of Good-will to him 2. In a Love of fervent Desires after him 3. In a Love of sweet Delight and full Satisfaction in him John 3.27 Cant. 1.2 8.14 Psal 16.5 6. Q. 249. How may we know that we love God the Father as our Father A. By our desires and endeavours to carry it toward him like dutiful Children fearing to offend him hearkning to him obeying him seeking to him and depending on him for all needful Blessings 1 Pet. 1.14 15. Mal. 1.6 Rom. 8.15 1 Pet. 5.7 Q. 250. How may we know that we love the Lord Jesus Christ as our Mediator and Redeemer A. 1. By our renouncing all other Mediators and Redeemers and thankfully accepting of him in all his Offices as our only Mediator and Redeemer Isa 26.13 Psal 73.25 2. By our learning of him as our Prophet obeying him as our King using of him and trusting in him as our Priest for the Benefits of his Satisfaction and Intercession Matth. 11.29 Heb. 5.9 4.15 16. Eph. 1.12 Q. 251. How may we know our Love to the Holy Spirit as our Sanctifier Guide and Comforter A. 1. By our love to frequenting of and delighting in the holy Ordinances of Christ by which the Spirit works Ps 27.4 81.1 2 10. 122.1 2. By our hearkning to and obeying his Call cherishing his holy Motions in our Souls by the Ordinances of Christ resisting and rejecting the evil suggestion and temptations of our spiritual Enemies 1 Thess 5.19 Isa 30.21 1 Pet. 5.9 3. By our setting upon Duties in the strength of the Spirit living under his influence and walking in God's holy ways under his guidance Eph. 3.16 Gal. 5.25 Rom. 8.14 Q. 252. What are the properties of Love to God A. It is a most hearty and fervent Love exceeding our Love to all our Friends Relations Enjoyments yea to our very Lives themselves Matth. 22.37 Luke 10.27 14.26 c. Acts 21.13 Rev. 12.11 Cant. 8.6 Q. 253. What is another A. It is an obedient Love or makes the Soul obedient to the Will of God and of Christ John 14.15 21. 15.10 14. 2 Cor. 5.14 1 John 5.3 Q. 254. What is another A. It makes the Soul desirous of likeness to God Communion with him and of gracious Communications of Love and Mercy from him 1 Pet. 1.1 15. Ps 17.15 42.1 2. Cant. 1.2 Q. 255. What is another A. It helps the Soul patiently and submissively to bear God's Rebukes and Corrections John 21.15 16 17. Mich. 7.9 Q. 256. What is another A. It is an abiding and constant Love Eph. 6.24 Cant. 8.6 7. Q. 257. What is another A. It causes the Soul to love what God loves because he loves it and hate what he hates because he hates it and to grieve for the dishonours done to him by our selves or others Psal 11.5 7. 146.8 87.2 26.8 1 John 5.1 Ps 119.14 97.10 139.21 22. Q. 258. How may we know whether our love to
of the Remembrance of Christ our spiritual Nourishment and growth in Grace the confirming of the Covenant of Grace the testifying of our Thankfulness to Christ and the strengthning of our Union to him and Communion with him and with one another Q. 346. Wherein else A. 3. In using this Ordinance according to Christ's Institution in order to these Ends that is using the same Elements of Bread and Wine and the same Words and Actions about them and to the same significations and ends that Christ used them for Q. 347. Wherein else A. 4. In holy Meditations on the Elements Words and Actions that are used in the Celebration or Administration of this holy Ordinance and especially on Christ himself who is signified and represented by them Prov. 23.1 John 1.29 Q. 348. What good Meditations may our Souls raise from these A. 1. When we see Bread and Wine prepared for this Ordinance we should meditate on the Resemblance that there is between them and the Body and Blood of Christ signified by them Q. 349. How doth Bread resemble the Body of Christ A. In three things especially 1. As Corn is prepared by grinding moulding and baking to make it Bread for our Bodies so Christ was prepared by exquisite Sufferings to be Bread for our Souls Isa 53.10 Q. 350. How else A. As Bread is the Staff and strength of our Natural Life so is Christ the Staff and Strength of our spiritual Life Psal â—05 16 19.14 Q. 351. How else A. 3. As Bread is but one Body tho' it be made up of many Grains so Christ mystical that is the Church is but one Body though made up of many Members 1 Cor. 12.12 Q. 352. How doth the Wine resemble the Blood of Christ A. In three things especially 1. As Wine quencheth the Thirst of the Body so doth the Blood of Christ quench the Thirst of the Soul John 6.35 Q. 353. How else A. 2. As Wine is of a cheering Nature making the Heart glad so the Blood of Christ applied by Faith cheers and makes glad the Souls of mournful sinners Psal 104.15 Q. 354. What else A. 3. As Wine is of a purging and cleansing quality so the Blood of Christ doth meritoriously purge and cleanse us from sin Heb. 9.13 14. 1 John 1.7 Q. 355. What other Meditation may we raise from this Ordinance A. When we see the Bread and Wine blessed sanctified or set apart from a common to an holy use by the Ministers pronouncing the words of Institution and Prayer we should meditate on God the Father his sanctifying and setting apart his Son the Lord Jesus Christ from all Eternity to be our Redeemer Isa 42.1 Q. 356. What other Meditation A. When we see the Bread broken we should meditate on the Breaking of Christ's sacred Body on the Cross and all the Sufferings Pains and Torments which he endured both in Soul and Body for our sakes on the heinous nature of our sins that could not be done away but by the shedding of Christ's Blood and the impartial Justice of God the Father in punishing his only begotten Son when he stood as our Surety Q 357. What other Meditation A. When we see the Minister offering and giving Bread and Wine to us we should meditate on the infinite Love of God the Father in Giving Christ and of Christ in Giving himself to be a Sacrifice for us and of the Spirit in revealing and applying Christ to us Q. 258. What other Meditation A. When we Receive the Bread and Wine from the hand of the Minister with the hand of our Bodies and eat and drink them with our Mouths we should meditate on the spiritual Receiving of the Body and Blood of Christ and feeding on him by Faith in our Souls Q. 359. What other Meditation A. We should meditate on the precious Benefits that redound to true Believers by a right receiving of Christ in this holy Ordinance which are Redemption from all Enemies and Evils Reconciliation to God Pardon of Sin Justification Adoption Sanctification Victory over our Souls Adversaries Increase of Grace and a Title to Glory Q. 360. Wherein else doth this gracious disposition of Soul consist A. 5. In a lively acting or exercising of saving Graces and using our bodily senses of seeing touching and tasting to help our spiritual Senses and Graces in their Actings John 20.27 Q. 361. What Graces should we exercise in partaking of this Ordinance A. We should especially exercise these four Faith Repentance Love and Joy Q. 362. How is Faith to be exercised in it A. Faith should be exercised as the Eye of the Soul to discern Christ in this Ordinance as the hand of the Soul to Receive him and as the Mouth of the Soul to feed upon him or apply him with all his Benefits to each Believer in particular Job 20.28 Gal. 2.20 Q. 363. How is Repentance to be exercâ—sed A. Repentance should then be exercised in remembring our sins confessing them with shame and sorrow hating of them judging and condemning our selves for them and turning from them unto God in Christ Isa 53.4 5.6 Zech. 12.10 11. Q. 364. How is Love to God then to be exercised A. Love to God both Father Son and Spirit should then be exercised by the fervent out goings of the Soul to God and to each Person in the God head and by the firm cleaving of the Soul to him as to the chief Good and our All-sufficient Portion Psal 63.8 Acts 11.23 Q. 365. How is Love to other Christians then to be exercised A. Love to other Christians should then be exercised by our cleaving to them in heart as to our Brethren by praying with and for them by forgiving their Trespasses against us and by a readiness to give to those that want according to our Ability and their Necessity Heb. 13.1 2 3. 1 Pet. 2.17 Eph. 4.32 Q. 366. How is Joy then to be exercised A. Joy is then to be exercised in the Soul 's being cheered revived and lifted up in the believing apprehension or assurance of its interest in God as his own God in Christ and Covenant and so in all the Blessings promised in the Covenant of Grace of which this Ordinance is a sign and seal Psal 16.5 Phil. 4.4 1 Pet. 1.8 Rom. 5.2 Q. 367. How is this Ordinance to be elosed up A. It is to be closed up in singing some Spiritual Hymn to the praise of God our Creator Redeemer and Sanctifier Matth. 26.30 Mark 14.26 Of our Duties after partaking Q. 368. What is required of us after partaking of tho Lord's Supper A. Two sorts of Duties some more publick and others more private Q. 369. What are the publick Duties A. Such as these 1. A solemn and hearty Thanksgiving to God for his love in giving Christ for Christ's love in giving himself and for the love of the holy Spirit in revealing Christ to us and in us with all the blessed Fruits of this Love As also for the Covenant of