AN EXPOSITION OF THE Assemblies Catechism WITH PRACTICAL INFERENCES From each QUESTION As it was carried on in the Lords Days Exercises in DARTMOUTH In the First Year of Liberty 1688. By IOHN FLAVELL Preacher of the Gospel in DARTMOUTH 2 Tim. 1.13 Hold fast the form of sound words which thou hast heard of me in faith and love which is in Christ Iesus LONDON Printed for Tho. Cockerill at the Three Legs in the Poultry over against Stocks-Market 1692. And because the Answers therein are some of them pretty large and Treat of the most profound Mysteries of our Religion therefore several Persons have bestowed their good and laudable Pains some in descanting more largely and proving by Scriptural Reasons the Particulars and one has shewn the harmony thereof with the Articles and Homilies of the Church of England designed I suppose to remove the prejudice which some have taken against it Others have parted the Questions and Answers into several little ones under each to make them more intelligible to younger ones and more easy to be remembred Among whom Worthy Orthodox and Excellent Mr. Iohn Flavell may be ranked who among other of his many and most profitable Labours applied himself to the chewing of this Bread of Life or crumbling it into smaller pieces for the Cenveniency of Children and indeed of all wherein as in all his other Works he hath shewn himself a Workman that needs not to be ashamed There needs no other recommendations to this Posthumus Piece but the worthy Author's Name he was removed before he had compleatly finished it he had prepared his Questions and Answers upon the second Petition of the Lord's Prayer but lived not to propose them in the publick Congregation God then translated him into his Kingdom of Glory above while he was so industriously endeavouring to promote the Kingdom of Grace below The other five remaining Questions and Answers to compleat the Work were done by a ruder hand as may easily be discerned by any observant Reader who will find himself transfer'd from a plain clear and delightful Stile method and manner into more rough disorderly and unpleasant ones for who indeed could equal this Divine Labourer Not the Compleater who would account himself to have made very great Attainments in Divinity and Usefulness if he were left but a few furlongs behind him Let the Reader use and peruse this Piece and he will see cause to bless God for the Author VALE TO THE READER THE Divine Providence having unexpectedly cast my Lot for a few Days in Dartmouth where that blessed man of God Mr. John Flavell did for many years honour Christ and was honoured by him I have been favoured with a sight of that most judicious Explication of the Assemblies Catechism which is emitted herewith Being desired to testify my Respect to the worthy Author by Prefacing this Excellent Labour of his with a few Lines I can truly say as sometimes Beza of Calvin Now Mr. Flavell is dead Life will be less sweet and Death less bitter to me My heart bleeds to look on this desolate Place and not to see him that whilst living was the glory of it But neither the Author nor his Writings stand in need of the commendation of others much less of mine His Works already published have made his Name precious in both Englands and it will be so as long as the Earth shall endure There are some considerations which may cause the Reader to expect and he will not find himself disappointed therein that which is extraordinary in this little Manuel for the Author's Heart was very much engaged in doing this Service for Christ in thus feeding his Lambs And he did himself design the Publication of what is here committed to the Press and was very desirous with an holy submission to the Will of God to have perfected this Work before his Decease but had strange intimations that he should finish his Course before that could be done When he did viva voce deliver his Meditations there were many Enlargements and lively Passages which are not here inserted nevertheless here is as much as he thought needful for publick view not being willing that his Book should be Voluminous In his last Catechetical Exercise concerning Hallowing the Name of God he was exceedingly enlarged but he must himself go into the Kingdom of Glory when he intended to have discoursed on that Petition Thy Kingdom come He also began some Meditations on the Joys of Heaven But before he had an opportunity to express what had been in his Heart the Lord Iesus said unto him Enter thou into the Joy of thy Lord. And thus doth it happen many times to the eminent and holy Servants of God Another Consideration recommending what comes herewith is that it was amongst Mr. Flavell's last Works The 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Last Sayings of wise and great Men have been esteemed Oraculous and the Scripture puts an Emphasis on the last Words of David the sweet singer of Israel 2 Sam. 23.1 Not that those were the last words that ever David spake only they were written not long before his Death when he was come near Heaven So was what is now put into the Reader 's Hand written by Mr. Flavell not long before his translation to the World of Souls where the Spirits of Iust men are made perfect There was a more than ordinary presence of God with him to his last and in his last Days not the last Sermon that he preached which was June 21. 1691. He did more than once surprize his Hearers with an Intimation that that might be the last time he should speak to them in the Name of the Lord. And was not then the Secret of the Lord with him Dartmouth will know and Devonshire will know that there has been a Prophet among them And now my Soul bleeds to Look on the dear Flock of God which are as Sheep without a Shepherd The Lord Iesus the great Shepherd of the Sheep bave compassion on them and give them a Shepherd like to his blessed Servant Flavell who did for many years feed them with Knowledge and with Understanding Dartmouth March the 21th 1691 2. Increase Mather AN EXPOSITION OF THE Assemblies Shorter Catechism 1 Question Of Man's Chief End WHat is the Chief End of Man A. Man's Chief End is to glorify God and to enjoy him for ever Q. 1. Seeing a Chief supposeth an inferior End What is that inferior End for which man was made A. It was prudently soberly and mercifully to govern use and dispose of other Creatures in the Earth Sea and Air over which God gave man the Dominion Gen. 1.26 And God said Let us make man in our Image after our likeness and let them have domonion over the Fish of the Sea and over the Fowl of the Air and over the Cattel and over all the Earth and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the Earth So Psal. 8.6 Thou madest him to have dominion over
on his designs in the world All time is in the hand of the Eternal God Rev. 12.12 The devil is come down unto you having great wrath because he kiâ—weth that he hath but a short time Of God's Vnchangeableness Quest. 1. WHAT Scriptures plainly assert this Attribute A. Exod. 3.14 And God said unto Moses I AM that I AM. Dan 6.26 For he is the living God and stedfast for ever Iam. 1.17 With whom is no varâ—ableness neither shadow of turning Q. 2. Whence doth God's Immutability flow A. The Immutability of God flows from the perfection of his Nature to which nothing can be added and from which nothing can be taken away If any thing could be added to make him better than he is or if any thing could be taken away to make him less good than he is then he were not the chiefest Good and consequently not God Q 3. By what other Argument prove you his Immutability A. I prove it from the Eternity of God If God be eternal he must be immutable for if he change by addition of something to him he had not before then there is something in God which he had not from Eternity And if he change by diminution then there was something in God from Eternity which now is not but from everlasting to everlasting he is the same God and therefore changeth not Q. 4. Bus it is said God repents and Repentance is a change How then is he unchangeable and yet repents A. In those Phrases God speaks to us as we must speak of and to him not properly but after the manner of men and it only notes a change in his outward providence not in his nature Q. 5. But how could God become man and yet no change made on him A. There is a twofold change one active made by God that we allow He made a change upon our nature by uniting it to Christ but a passive change made upon God we deny The nature of man was made more excellent but the Divine Nature was still the same Q 6. VVhat is the first Instruction from God's Immutability A. That those that are most unchangeable in holiness are most like God Let him that is holy be holy still Q. 7. VVhat is the second Instruction from hence A. That the happiness of God's people is firm and sure being still upon the word of an unchangeable God Mal. 3.6 For I am the Lord I change not therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed Heb. 6.18 Q. 8. VVhat is the third Instruction from this Attribute A. That the hopes of all wicked men are vain being built upon a presumption that God will not deal with them as he hath threatned he will do Q. 9. VVhat is the last Instruction from God's Immutability A. That Christians may take as much encouragement now from the nature word and providence of God as the Saints in any former Generation did or might do for he is the same now he was then Of God's Wisdom Quest. 1. How manifold is the wisdom of God A. There is a personal and essential wisdom of God the personal wisdom is the Son of God 1 Cor. 1.24 Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God Col. 2.3 In whom are laid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge The essential wisdom of God is the essence of God of which this Question speaks Q. 2. VVhat is the Essential wisdom of God A. The Essential wisdom of God is his most exact and perfect knowledge of Himself and all his Creatures and his ordering and disposing them in the most convenient manner to the Glory of his own Name Ephes. 1.11 According to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the councel of his own will Q 3. VVhat is the first property of God's wisdom A. The first property is he is only wise Rom. 16.27 To God only wise be glory And whatsoever wisdom is in Angels or Men is all derived and borrowed from God but his from none Isa. 40.14 VVith whom took he counsel and who instructâ—d him and taught him in the path of judgment and taught him knowledge and shewed to him the way of understanding Q. 4. VVhat is the second property of God's wisdom A. The second property is That he is incomprehensible in his wisdom Rom. 11.33 34. Oh the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God c. Q. 5. VVhat is the third property of the wisdom of God A. The third property is That God is perfectly wise which no Creatures no not the very Angels in Heaven are Iob 4.18 And his Angels he chargeth with folly Q. 6. VVhat is the most glorious and eminent discovery of the wisdom of God A. The most glorious display of the wisdom of God was in the work of our Redemption by Jesus Christ. Col. 2.3 In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge 1 Cor. 1.24 Christ the wisdom of God Q. 7. VVhat is the first Instruction from God's wisdom A. The first Instruction is That God is a fit object of our trust dependance and resignation Isa. 30.18 And therefore will the Lord wait that he may be gracious unto you and therefore will he be exalted that he may have mercy upon you for the Lord is a God of judgment blessed are all they that wait for him Q. 8. VVhat is the second Instruction from hence A. The second Instruction is That it is a dangerous arrogancy in the Creature either to prescribe unto God and direct his Maker Iob 21.22 Shall any teach God knowledge seeing he judgeth those that are high Or to quarrel with his providences as not so fit and convenient as they should be Iob 40.2 Shall he that contendeth with the Almighty instruct him He that reproveth God let him answer it Q. 9. What is the third Instruction from it A. That the people of God have much reason to quiet and encourage themselves when crafty and subtil Enemies surround them For the foolishness of God is wiser than man 1 Cor. 1.25 Q. 10. What is the fourth Instruction from God's wisdom A. The fourth Instruction is That the true way to wisdom is to be sensible of our own folly 1 Cor. 3.18 If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world let him become a fool that he may be wise And to apply our selves by prayer to God the fountain of it Iam. 1.5 If any man lack wisdom let him ask it of God Q 11. What is the last Instruction from God's wisdom A. That the study of Christ and of the Scriptures is to be preferred to all other studies in the world Col. 2.3 In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge And the Scriptures contain all that Wisdom which is for our Salvation 1 Cor. 2.7 But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery even the hidden wisdom which God ordained before the world unto our glory Of God's Power Quest. 1. WHat is the Power of God A.
6. HOW many Persons are there in the Godhead A. There are three Persons in the Godhead the Father the Son and the Holy Ghost and these three are one God the same in substance equal in Power and Glory Q. 1. VVhat mean you by the word Godhead A. It is the Nature Essence or Being of God as the Apostle speaks Acts 17.29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold or silver or stone graven by art and mans device Q. 2. VVhat is a Person in the Godhead A. It is the Godhead distinguished by personal Properties each person having his distinct personal Properties Heb. 1.3 VVho being the brightness of his glory and the express image of his person upholding all things by the word of his power Q. 3. How doth it appear there are three persons and no more A. First From Christ's Baptism Matt. 3.16 17. And Iesus when he was baptized went up straitway out of the water and Io the heavens were opened unto him and he saw the spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting upon him and lo a voice from heaven saying This is my beloved son in whom I am well pleased Q. 4. How else in the second place doth it appear A. From the Institution of our Baptism Mat. 28.19 Go ye therefore teach all nations baptizing them in the name of the father of the son and of the holy ghost Q. 5. VVhat is the third Proof from Scripture A. From the Apostolical Benediction 2 Cor. 13.14 The grace of our Lord Iesus Christ and the love of God and the communion of the Holy Ghost be with you all Amen Where three distinct blessings are wisht from the three divine persons in the Godhead Grace from Christ Love from the Father and Communion with the Spirit Q. 7. What farther evidence is there of it in the Scripture A. From plain positive assertions of the Scripture asserting First A Trinity of Persons Secondly A Unity of Essence 1 Ioh. 5.7 For there are three that bear record in heaven the father the word and the holy Ghost and these three are one Q. 7. VVhat is the first Instruction from the Trinity A. That the Doctrine of the Gospel concerning Christ is fully confirmed and ratified by three witnesses from Heaven who are above all exceptions 1 Ioh. 5.7 For there are three that bear record in heaven the father the word and the Holy Ghost Q. 8. What is the second Instruction from the Trinity A. Hence we learn the true order and manner of worshipping God in the Son Ioh. 16.23 Whatsoever ye shall ask the father in my name he will give it you And by the Spirit Eph. 6.18 Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the spirit Q. 9. What is the third Instruction from the Trinity A. That the Covenant of Grace conveys a rich portion to Believers in making over all three persons to them Ier. 31.33 But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days saith the Lord I will put my law in their inward parts and write it in their hearts and I will be their God and they shall be my people Q. 10. What is the fourth Instruction from the Trinity A. That as it is the duty of all the Saints to give distinct glory to the three persons in the Godhead so it will be a special part of their blessedness in Heaven to contemplate the distinct benefits received from them all Rev. 1.5 And from Iesus Christ who is the faithful witness and the first begotten of the dead and the Prince of the Kings of the Earth unto him that loved us and washed us from our sins in his own blood Of God's Decrees Quest. 7. WHat are the Decrees of God A. The Decrees of God are his eternal purpose according to the counsel of his will whereby for his own glory he hath fore-ordained whatsoever comes to pass Q. 1. What things are Decreed of God A. All things whatsoever come to pass even the smallest Eph. 1.11 In whom also we have obtained an inheritance being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all thing after the counsel of his own will Q. 2. What is the End of God's Decrees A. The Glory of his own Name Eph. 1.11 12. Who worketh all things according to the counsel of his own will that we should be to the praise of his glory who first trusted in Christ. Q. 3. But there are some evil things done in the World do they fall under God's Decree A. Though God doth neither approve them nor necessitate men to commit them yet he doth permit and suffer them to be done and will turn them to his own Glory Acts 4.27 28. For of a truth against thy holy child Iesus whom thou hast anointed both Herod and Pontius Pilate with the Gentiles and the people of Israel are gathered together for to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done Q. 4. Who are the Objects of God's Special Decrees A. Angels and Men are the Objects of God's Special Decrees 1 Tim. 5.21 I charge thee before God and the Lord Iesus Christ and the elect angels that thou observe these things c. Rom. 8.33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect Q. 5. What is the First Property of God's Decrees A. That they are most wise Acts of God laid in the depth of Wisdom and Counsel Rom. 11.33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments and his ways past finding out Q. 6. What is the Second Property of God's Decrees A. The Decrees of God are most free all flowing from the meer pleasure of his Will Rom. 9.18 Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy and whom he will he hardeneth Q 7. What is the Third Property of God's Decrees A. They are most firm and stable 2 Tim. 2.19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure having this seal the Lord knoweth them that are his Zech. 6.1 Q. 8. What is the fourth Property of God's Decrees A. They are eternal and before all time Acts 15.18 Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world Q. 9. VVhat is th Fifth Property of God's Decrees A. They are most pure and altogether unspotted of sin 1 John 1.5 This is the message which we have heard of him and declare unto you That God ie light and in him is no darkness at all Q. 10. VVhat is the First Instruction from God's Decrees A. That we ought to ascribe nothing to Chance but to the appointment or providence of God Prov. 16.33 The lot is cast into the lap but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord. Q. 11. VVhat is the Second Instruction from God's Decrees A. That God's hand is to be acknowledged in the greatest Afflictions that befalls us 2 Sam. 16.11
Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings and not one of them is forgotten before God but even the very hairs of your head are all numbred Q 2 How else is Providence evidenced A. By Scripture Emblems as Iacob 's Ladder Gen. 28.12 13. Ana he dreamed and behold a ladder set upon the earth and the top of it reached to heaven behold the Angels of God ascended and descended on it And Ezekiel 's wheels Ezek 1.20 VVhithersoever the spirit was to go they went thither was their spirit to go and the wheels were lifted up over against them for the spirit of the liviâ—g creature was in the wheels Q. 3. VVhat further Scripture evidence is there A The sure accomplishment of Scripture Predictions as Israel 's Captivity and Deliverance from Egypt and Babylon Christ's Incarnation the Rise and Ruin of the Four Monarchies Dan. 2.31 Thou O King sawest and behold a great Image whose brightnest was excellent stood before thee and the form thereof was terrible Dan. 7.3 And four great beasts came up from the Sea diverse one from the other Q 4. VVhat is it's first Act about the Creatures A. It sustains preserves provides for them Psalm 145.15 16. The eyes of all wait upon thee and thou givest them their meat in due season thou openest thine hand and satisfiest the desire of every living thing and defendest them from danger Psalm 36. 6. Thy righteousness is like the great mountains thy judgments are a great deep O Lord thou preservest man and beast Q. 5. VVhat is the Second Act of Providence about the Creatures A. It rules and governs the Creatures and their Actions Psalm 66.7 He ruleth by his power for ever his eyes behold the nations let not the rebellions exalt themselves Q. 6. How manifold is Divine Providence A. It is common and general over all or special and peculiar to some men 1 Tim 4.10 VVho is the saviour of all men especially of those that believe Q. 7. How is Providence exercised about sinful Actions A. In permitting them Acts 4.16 In restraining them Psalm 76.10 Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee and the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain And over-ruling them to good Gen. 50.20 But as for you ye thought evil against me but God meant it unto good to bring to pass as it is this day to save much people alive Q. 8. VVhat are the Properties of Providence A. It is 1 holy Psalm 145.17 The Lord is righteous in all his ways and holy in all his works 2 Wise. Psalm 104.24 O Lord how manifold are thy works in wisdom hast thou made them all 3. Powerful Dan. 4.35 And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing and he doth according to his will in the army of heaven and among the inhabitants of the earth and none can stay his hand or say unto him what dost thou Q. 9. VVhat is the First Instruction from it A. That God's people are safe amidst all their enemies and dangers 2 Chron. 16.9 For the eyes of the Lords run to and fro throughout the whole earth to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose hearts are perfect towards him Q. 10. VVhat is the Second Instruction A. That Prayer is the best expedient to prosperity and success of our lawful affairs Psalm 145.18 The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him to all that call upon him in truth Q. 11. VVhat is the Third Instruction from it A. That God's people should rest quietly in the care of his providence for them in all their straits Matt. 6.26 Behold the fowls of the air for they sow not neither do they reap nor gather into barns yet our heavenly father feedeth them are ye not much better than they Q. 12. VVhat is the last Instruction from it A. That it is no small priviledge to be adopted Children of God and the Members of Christ for all is ordered for their eternal Good Eph. 1.22 23. And hath put all things under his feet and gave him to be head over all things to the Church which is his body the fulness of him that filleth all in all Of the Covenant of Works Quest. 12. WHAT special Art of Providence did God exercise towards Man in the estate wherein he was created A. When God had created Man he entred into a Covenant of Life with him upon condition of perfect obedience forbidding him to eat of the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil upon pain of Deaâ—h Q. 1. What was God's Covenant with Adam before the Fall A. It was to give Life and Happiness upon condition of perfect personal Obedience Gal. 3.12 The law is not of faith but the man that doth them shall live in them Q. 2. Was this Covenant made only with Adam or with him and his Posterity A. It was made with him and all his natural Posterity descending in the ordinary way of Generation from him Rom. 4.12 Wherefore as by one man sin entred into the world and death by sin and so death passed upon all men for that all have sinned v. 14 and 18. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adams transgression who is the figure of him that was to come Therefore as by the offence of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life Q. 3. Was Adam able to preform the obedience required of him in that Covenant A. Yes for he was made upright Eccles. 7.29 God made man upright but they have sought out themselves many inventions Q. 4. Had this Covenant any Mediator A. No he neither had nor needed any Mediator for satisfaction because no sin was in him nor intercession for he wanted nothing Q. 5. Did this Covenant admit of no repentance nor accept any short Endeavours A. No it did not but sentenceth and curseth the Transgressors of it for the least breach Gal. 3.10 Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them Q. 6. How was the threatning fulfilled of dying in the day he eat seeing he lived 930 years A. He died spiritually that day and though the sentence on his body was respited in order to posterity yet then his body received the death wound of which afterward he died Q. 7. What is the first Inference from Adam's Covenant A. Miserable are all they that grow on the natural root of the first Adam Gal. 4.21.22 Tell me ye that desire to be under the law Do ye not hear the law for it is wrrtten That Abraham had two sons the one by a Bond-maid the other by a Free-woman Q. 8. VVhat is the second Inference A. That God is just in all the punishments and miseries that came upon Man yea Infants that never sinned after his similitude Rom. 5.14 Nevertheless death reigned from Adam
of a trumpet Q. 11. VVhat doth his ascension teach us A. Heavenly-mindedness Col. 3.1 2. If ye them be risen with Christ seek those things which are above where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God set your affections on things above and not oâ— things on the earth And an encouragement in our Christian race Heb. 12.1 2. VVherefore seeing we also are compasâ—ed about with so great a cloud of witnesses let us lay aside every â—eight and the sin which doth so easily beset us and let us run with â—atience the race that is set before us looking unto Iesus the auâ—hor and finisher of our faith VVho for the joy that was set before him endured the cross despising the shame and is sate down at the right hand of the Throne of God The Second Part of the 28th Question of Christ's Exaltation Quest. 1. WHat was the Third degree of Christ's Exaltation A. His sitting at God's right hand in Heaven Heb. 1.3 VVhen he had by himself purged our sins sate down on the right hand of the majesty on high Q. 2. VVhat doth God's right hand signify A. A State of Honour Heb. 1.13 But to which of the angels said he at any time Sit on my right hand until I make thine enemies thy footstool And Power Mat. 26.64 Hereafter shall ye see the son of man sitting on the right hand of power Q. 3. VVhat is implied in Christ's sitting there A. That his work on earth is finished Heb. 10.11 12. But this man after he had offered one sacrifice for sin for ever sate down on the right hand of God Q. 4. VVhat else doth it signify A. Christ's power over all enemies Psal. 110.2 The Lord shall send the rod of thy strength out of Sion rule thou in the midst of thine enemies Q. 5. VVhat learn we from Christ's sitting there A. The high honour Believers are advanced to by Christ. Eph. 2.6 And hath raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Iesus Q. 6. VVhat is the last step of Christ's Exaltation A. His coming to Judgment Acts 10.42 And he commanded us to preach unto the people and to testify that it is he which was ordained of God to be judge of quick and dead Q. 7. It is certain there shall be a Iudgment-day A. Yes the Scripture assures it 2 Cor. 5.10 For we must all appear before the judgment-seat of Christ. And every man's conscience witnesses to it Rom. 2.16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Iesus Christ according to my Gospel Q. 8. What is the first property of Christ's Iudgment A. It will be awful and solemn 1 Thes. 4.16 For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout with the voice of the Arch-angel and with the Trâ—mp of God and the dead in Christ shall rise first Q. 9. VVhat is the second Property of it A. It will be exact and critical Rom. 2.16 In the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Iesus Christ according to my Gospel Mat. 12.36 But I say unto you That every idle word that men shall speak they shall give account thereof in the day of Iudgment Q. 10. What is the third Property of it A. It will be an universal Judgment Rev. 20.12 And I saw the dead small and great stand before God and the books were opened Q. 11. How is this a part of Christ's Exaltation A. He now acts in the fulness of his Kingly Power Mat. 25.34 Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand Come ye blessed of my father inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world And this will rowl away the reproach of his enemies Rev. 1.7 Behold he cometh with clouds and every eye shall see him and they also which pierced him Q. 12. What learn we from Christ's being Iudge A. That Believers shall not be cast in Judgment Rom. 8.1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them that are in Christ Iesus Q. 13. What learn we hence A. The deplorable State of Christless Persons Luke 19.27 But those mine enâ—mies that would not that I should reign over them bring hither and slay them before me Q. 14. What else learn we from Christ's Iudgment A To give all diligence to be found of him in peace 2 Pet. 3.14 Wherefore beloved seeing that ye lock for such things â—e diligent that ye may be sound of him in peace Of the Application of Christ. Quest. 29. HOW are we made partakers of the Redemption purchased by Christ A. We are made parâ—akers of the Redemption purchased by Chriâ—t by the effectual Application of it to us by his Holy Spirit Q. 1. What did our Redemption cost Christ A. It cost him his own Blood to obtain it Heb. 9.12 Neither by the blood of Goats and Calves but by his own blood he entred once into the holy place having obtained eternal redemption for us Q. 2. Can none have the benefit of it exceept it be applied to them A. No if Christ be not applied we cannot be saved Iohn 1.12 But as many as received him to them gave he power to become theâ— Sons of God even to them that believe on his name Q. 3 Whos 's work or office is it to apply Christ to us A. It 's the office and work of God's Spirit Tit. 3.45 But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour towards man appeared not by works of righteousness which we have done but according to his mercy he saved us by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost Q. 4. Wâ—at Means doth the Spirit use in applying Christ A. The external means he makes use of is the Ministry of the Gospel 1 Cor. 3.5 Who then is Paul and who is Apollo but Ministers by whom ye believed Q. 5. Is this sâ—fficient of it self A. No the Blessing and Power of the Spirit must accompany it or Christ cannot be applied 1 Thes. 1.5 6. For our Gospel came not unto you in word only but also in power and in the Holy Ghost and in much assurance as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake And ye became followers of us and of the Lord having received the word in much affliction with joy of the Holy Ghost Q. 6. To whom doth the Spirit apply Christ A. To those that were given him of the Father before the world was Acts 13.48 And as many as were ordained to eternal life believed John 14.17 Even the spirit of truth whom the world cannot receive because it seeth him not neither knoweth him but ye know him for he dwelleth with you and shall be in you Q. 7. Is the Application of Christ to a Soul finisht at once A. Tho the first act of Faith unites the Soul to Christ yet it is a continued act 1 Pet. 2.4 To whom coming as unto a living stone Q. 8. What learn you from hence A. What a
your flesh and I will give you an heart of flesh Q 7. Can no man come to Christ till thus enabled A. No it 's not in the power of man's nature or will till thus renewed and enabled Eph. 1.19 20. And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us ward who believe according to the working of his mighty power which he wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead and set him on his own right hand in the heavenly places John 6.44 No man can come to me except the father which hath sent me draw him Q 8. What sort of men are most ordinarily called A. The poor and mean ones in the world 1 Cor. 1.26 For ye see your calling brethren how that not many wise men after the flesh not many mighty not many noble are called but God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty Q. 9. What is the first Instruction from it A. Souls effectually called are never lost Rom. 11.29 For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance Q. 10. What is the second Instruction A. All things co-operare to their good Rom. 8.28 For we know that all things work together for good to them that love God to them who are called according to his purpose Q. 11. What is the third Instruction A. It is dangerous to refuse God's call Prov. 1.24 Because I have called and ye refused I have stretched out my hand and no man regarded Q 12. VVhat is the last Instruction A. That Christians are obliged to walk suitable to their heavenly calling 1 Thes. 2.12 That ye would walk worthy of God who hath called you unto his kingdom and glory Of the Concomitants of Vocation Quest. 32. WHAT benefits do they that are effectually called partake of in this Life A. They that are effectually called do in this life partake of Iustification Adoption Sanctification and the several benefiâ—s which in this life do either accompany or flow from them Q. 1. Are all that be effectually called justified A. Yes God justifies all and every Soul that obeys and answers his call Rom. 8.30 VVhom he called them he also justified Q. 2. VVhat other benefits have the called in this Life A. They are all the adopted Children of God Eph. 1.5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Iesus Christ unto himself according to the good pleasure of his will Q. 3. Are those all the benefits the called receive A. No they are not only justified and adopted but also sanctified 1 Cor. 1.30 But of him are ye in Christ Iesus who of God is made unto us wisdom righteousness and sanctification and redemption Q. 4. Do these three blessings come singly to the called A. No they are all accompanied with multitudes of other blessings flowing from them Eph 1.3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Iesus Christ who hath blessed us with all spriritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ. Q. 5. VVhat are the mercies flowing from Iustification A. They are great and manifold Rom. 5.1 2 3 4 5. Therefore being justified by faith we have pâ—ace with God through our Lord Iesus Christ by whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand and rejoyce in the hope of the glory of God Q. 6. VVhat are the benefits flowing from Adoption A. Free access to God Eph. 3.12 In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the saith of him And a Title to Heaven Rom. 8.17 If children then heirs Q. 7. What Blessings accompany Sanctification A. Union with Christ. Heb. 2.11 For both he that sanctifieth and they who are sanctified are all of one And Right to the Inheritance Acts 20.32 And now brethren I commend yâ—â— to God and to the word of his grace which is able to build you up and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sâ—â—ctified Q. 8. What is the first Lesson from hence A. That they are Enemies to their own Souls who obey not the Gospel Call 2 Thes. 1.8 In flaming fire taking veâ—geance on them that know not God and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Iesus Christ. Q. 9. What is the second Lesson from hence A. That the Estate of Believers abounds with spiritual priviledges 1 Cor. 3.22 23. VVhether Paul 〈◊〉 Apollo or Cephas or the world or life or death or things present or things to come all are yours and ye are Christ's and Christ is God's Q. 10. What is the third Lesson from hence A. That all the Believer's priviledges are not in hope but some in hand 1 Iohn 3.1 Behold what manner of loâ—e the father hath bestowed upon us that we should be called the sons of God Q 11. What is the fourth Lesson A. The greatest sufferers for Christ have no reason to repent their call Rom. 8.18 For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed in us Q 12. What is the last Lesson from hence A. That we have infinite reason to bless God for the Gospel by which we are called 2 Thes. 2.14 Whereunto he calleâ— you by our Gospel Of Iustification Quest. 33. WHAT is Iustification A. Iustification is an Act of God's Free-grace wherein he pardoneth all our Sins and accepteth us as righteous in his sight only for the righteousness of Christ imputed to us and receivedly faith alone Q 1. What are the parts of Iustification A. It consists of two Parts First The pardon of Sin Acts 13.39 And by him all that believe are justified from all things from which ye could not be justified by the Law of Moses Secondly The acceptation of our persons as righteous Rom. 5.1 2 3. 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 and rejoyce in hope of the glory of God Q. 2. Whose act is it to justify Sinners A. It is the act of God alone Rom. 8.33 It is God that justifieth Man's justifying of himself is nothing Luke 16.15 And he said unto them Ye are they which justify your selves before men but God knoweth your hearts for that which is highly esteemed amongst men is abomination in the sight of God Nor other mens justifying of us Rev. 3.1 I know thy works that thou hast a name to live and art dead Q. 3. Is there any thing in man to merit his Iustification A. No it is an act of Free-grace in God Rom. 3.24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption which is in Iesus Christ. Q. 4. If it be not for any inherent righteousness how then A. It is for the righteousness of Christ imputed to us Rom. 4.6 Even as David also describeth the blessedness of the man unto whom God imputeth righteousness without
Gentiles granted repentance unto life Q. 9. What are the signs of true repentance A. Fear of sin care to preserve our selves from it and zeal to honour God by new obedience 2 Cor. 7.11 For behold this self same thing that ye sorrowed after a godly sort what carefulness is wrought it you yea what clearing of your selves yea what indignation yea what fear yea what vehement desire yea what zeal yea what revenge in all things you have approved your selves to be clear in this matter Q. 10. Is there a necessity of Repentance in order to forgiveness A. Yes there is and they are therefore conjoyned in Scripture Acts 5.31 For to give repentance to Israel and forgiveness of sins And destruction threatned to the impenitent Luk. 13.3 Except ye repent ye shall all likewise perish Q. 11. What 's the first Inference hence A. That it 's a false Doctrine which teaches us that sins are actually forgiven from Eternity and therefore no need either of Repentance or Prayer save only for the manifestation of Pardon Q. 12. What 's the second Inference hence A. That an hard Heart is a dreadful sign of a lost state of Soul Rom. 2.5 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thy self wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God Q. 13. What 's the last Inference hence A. That there is no cause to despair of the vilest sinner seeing there is power enough in the Spirit of God to break the hardest heart Ezek. 36.26 I will take away the stoâ—y heart oâ—â— of your flesh and I will give you an heart of flesh Of Christs Ordinances Quest. 88. WHat are the outward means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of Redemption A. The outward and ordinary means whereby Christ communicateth to us the benefits of Redemption are his Ordinances especially the Word Sacraments and Prayer all which are made effectual to the elect for Salvation Q. 1. What makes any thing become a Divine Ordinance A. The institution or appointment of God is that alone which makes a Divine Ordinance Matth. 28.20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you c. Q. 2. Are the institutions of all Ordinances alike clear in Scripture A. No some are more explicitly and clearly revealed in Scripture than others as the Lords Supper more clear than Baptism but whatever hath Scripture warrant in the words or consequence is of divine appointment Q. 3. May not men institute Ordinances of Divine Worship A. No this in Scripture is condemned as Will-worship Col. 2.20 22 23. Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world why as though living in the world are ye subject to ordinances c. Which things indeed have a shew of wisdom in will-worship c. Q. 4. Why cannot man institute a Divine Ordinance A. He cannot do it because it 's the prerogative belonging to Christs Kingly Office Matth. 28.20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you Q. 5. For what other reason cannot man do it A. Because he cannot bless them and make them effectual to their ends but they will be in vain Matth. 15.9 But in vain do they worship me teaching for doctrines the commandments of men Q. 6. Why are the Ordinances called means of Salvation A. Because by and through them the Spirit of the Lord conveys Spiritual Graces into Mens Souls 1 Cor. 1.21 It pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe 1 Cor. 3.5 Not that we are sufficient of our selves to think any thing as of our selves but our sufficiency is of God Q. 7. Whence is the vertue of Ordinances A. 'T is not in and from themselves or the gifts and abilities of him that administers them but from the Blessing and Spirit of the Lord 1 Cor. 3.7 Neither is he that planteth any thing neither he that watereth but God that giveth the increase Q. 8. Do all Gods Ordinances attain their end A. Yes there is none of them in vain but do attain their end in the Salvation or Damnation of all that come under them 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 bâ—d that it may give seed to the sower and bread to the eater So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth it shall not return â—nto me void but it shall accomplish that which I please and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I send it 2 Cor. 2.15 16. For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ in them that are saved and in them that perish To the one we are the savour of death unto death and to the other the savour of life unto life c. Q. 9. Are instituted Ordinances the only means of Salvation A. They are not the only means for God can convert Men to Christ without them Acts 9.4 5. And he fell to the earth and heard a voice saying unto him Saul Saul why persecutest thou me And he said who art thou Lord and the Lord said I am Iesus whom thou persecutest It is hard for thee to kick against the pricks But they are the ordinary standing means Rom. 10.14 15. How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard and how shall they hear without a preacher and how shall they preach except they be sent c. Q. 10. To whom are the Ordinances made effectual to Salvation A. To all Gods elect they are effectual to Salvation and to them only Acts 13.48 As many as were ordained to eternal life believed John 10.26 But ye believe not because ye are not of my sheep c. Q. 11. What 's the first instruction from hence A. That great preparation is due to all the Ordinances before we engage in them Iob 11.13 14. If thou prepare thine heart and stretch out thy hand towards him If iniquity be in thine hand put it far away and let not wickedness dwell in thy tabernacles 1 Chron. 29.18 And prepare their heart unto thee Q. 12. What 's the second Inference from hence A. That great Reverence is due to Gods Ordinances when we are actually engaged in the use of them Psal. 89.7 God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints and to be had in reverence of all them that are about him Q. 13. What 's the third Inference from hence A. That those people that want Ordinances are in a sad and deplorable condition Eph. 2.11 12. Wherefore remember that ye being in time passed Gentiles in the flesh who are called uncircumcision by that which is called the circumcision in the flesh made by hands that at that time ye were without Christ being aliens from the common-wealth of Israel and strangers from the covenants of promise having
A. Hence we learn the tender care and love of Christ over the Church in instituting such useful and comfortable Ordinances for us Of the number of Sacraments Quest. 93. WHich are the Sacraments of the New Testament A. The Sacraments of the New Testament are Baptism and the Lords Supper Q. 1. How many Sacraments hath Christ appointed in the New Testament A. Christ hath appointed two and no more these being sufficient for our initiation and confirmation Q. 2. How many have the Papists added to them A. They have added five more viz. Confirmation Penance Ordination Marriage and Extream Vnction Q. 3. What is their Sacrament of Confirmation A. It is the anointing of the Baptized with Chrism in the Forehead with this Form of Words I sign thee with the sign of the Cross and confirm thee with the Chrism of Salvation in the Name of the Father Son and Holy Ghost Q. 4. What 's their ground for this practice A. The abuse of that Scripture Heb. 6.2 Of the doctrine of baptisms and laying on of hands c. which by a figurative speech expresseth the whole standing Ministry in the Church by laying on of Hands Q. 5. What 's their Sacrament of Penance A. It is Repentance manifested by outward signs to which the word of Absolution coming makes it a Sacrament misgrounded on Iohn 20.23 Whosesoever sins ye remit they are remitted unto them and whosesoever sins ye retain they are retained Q. 6. What is their Sacrament of Orders or Ordination A. It is the laying on of Hands in Ordination of Ministers by which they conceive Spiritual Grace is given by mistake of 2 Tim. 1.6 Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God which is in thee by the putting on of my hands Q. 7. What 's their fourth superadded Sacrament A. It is Marriage grounded upon those words of the Apostle Eph. 5.32 This is a great mystery but I speak concerning Christ and the church Which only shews a similitude of our union with Christ not an instituted sign to that end Q. 8. What is their fifth superadded Sacrament A. Extream Unction or anointing the Sick near Death with consecrated Oyl grounded on Mark 6.13 And anointed with oyl many that were sick and healed them And Iam. 5.14 Is any sick among you let him call for the elders of the church and let them pray over him anointing him with oyl in the name of the Lord. Which are neither Sacramental-Rites nor of ordinary standing use in the Church but extraordinary and temporary for that Age. Q. 9. What learn we hence A. Hence we learn how apt men are to corrupt Gods Ordinances by their superstitious additions Matth. 15.9 Teaching for doctrines the commandments of men Q. 10. What 's the second Instruction hence A. How just and necessary our separation from Rome is who have grosly corrupted Gods Ordinances and left men no other remedy Rev. 13.6 And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God to blaspheme his name and his tabernacle and them that dwelt in heaven Q. 11. What 's the third Instruction A. That the reformation of Religion is an invaluable Mercy a great deliverance from Spiritual Bondage Rev. 11.19 And the temple of God was opened in heaven and there was seen in his temple the ark of this testament and there were lightnings and voices and thunderings and an earthquake and great hail Q. 12. What 's the fourth Instruction A. That Rome shall certainly fall and all her Adherents for the horrid injury done by them to Christ and the Souls of men Rev. 18.20 21. Rejoyce over her thou heaven and ye holy apostles and prophets for God hath avenged you on her And a mighty angel took up a stone like a great milstone and cast it into the Sea saying thus with violence shall that great city Babylon be thrown down and shall be found no more at all What is Baptism Quest. 94. WHat is Baptism A. Baptism is a Sacrament wherein the washing of Water in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Ghost doth signifie and seal our ingrafting into Christ and partaking of the benefits of the Covenant of Grace and our engagement to be the Lords Q. 1. What is the external part of Baptism A. It is pure unmixed Water Heb. 10.22 And our bodies washed with pure water And therefore it 's a vile practice of Papists to add Oyl Salt and Spittle to Water in Baptism Q. 2. What doth Water in Baptism signifie A. It signifies the Blood of Christ Rev. 1.5 Vnto him that loved us and washed us from our sins in his own blood Q. 3. What 's the first resemblance it hath to Christs Blood A. In the freeness of it to all it represents the unpurchased Blood of Christ Isa. 55.1 Ho every one that thirsteth come ye to the waters and he that hath no money come ye buy and eat yea come buy wine and milk without money and without price Q. 4. What 's the second resemblance to Christs Blood A. It resembles it in its refreshing quality Water refresheth the thirsty so doth Christs Blood Iohn 6.35 He that believeth on me shall never thirst Q. What 's the third resemblance it hath to Christs Blood A. The cleansing property of Water shews the purifying vertue of Christs Blood Heb. â— 14 How much more shall the blood of Christ who through the eternal spirit offered himself without spot to God purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God Q 6. What 's the fourth resemblance it hath to Christs Blood A. It resembles it in the necessity of it for as the Body cannot live without Water so neither can the Soul without Christs Blood Heb. 9.23 It was therefore necessary that the patterns of things in the heavens should be purified with these but the heavenly things themselves with bitter sacrifices than these Q. 7. What 's the fifth resemblance of Water to the Blood of Christ A. As Water neither refreshes nor purifies the Body without application so neither doth Christs Blood refresh or purifie the Soul till applyed 1 Cor. 1.30 But of him are ye in Christ Iesus who of God is made unto us wisdom and righteousness and sanctification and redemption Q. 8. Is it necessary to plunge the whole body under water in Baptizing every person A. The word Baptize signifying as well to wash as to plunge A person may be truly Baptized that is not plunged And we cannot think by the circumstances of time and place that the Iaylor in the night was carryed to a River out of the City Acts 16.33 And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their stripes and was baptized he and all his straightway Q. 9. But is it not said John 3.23 That John was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim because there was much water there and they came and were baptized A. The word signifies many waters that is springs of waters there
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
us richly all things to enjoy Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come that they may lay hold on eternal life Q. 17. Wherefore is the Bread called our Bread A. Not because we are absolute Lords and Possessors of it for so 't is Gods only Psal. 24.1 2. The earth is the Lords and the fulness thereof the world and they that dwell therein For he hath founded it upon the Seas and estabilished it upod the floods Psal. 50.10 12. for every beast of the forrest is mine and the cattle upon a thousand hills If I were hungry I would not tell thee for the world is mine and the fulness thereof But 1. Because we must have a Covenant right to it and 2. A civil right we must come lawfully and honestly by and so keep the good things of this life 2 Thes. 3.10 For even when we were with you this we commanded you that if any would not work neither should â—e eat Q. 18. Having prayed for our daily Bread need we to labour and endeavour to get it A. Yes we must labour in good and honest callings Gods blessing and Mans industry must concur towards the present maintenance of life Psal. 128.1 2. Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord that walketh in his ways for thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands happy shalt thou be and it shall be well with thee Prov. 10.4 22. He becometh poor that dealeth with aslack hand but the hand of the diligent maketh rich The blessing of the Lord maketh rich and he addeth no sorrow with it Q. 19. What is the first Inference from it A. That we must not seek great matters for our selves neither make them the matter of prayer to God nor the end and design of our labours and callings among Men. Q. 20. What is a second Inference from hence A. That having Food and Rayment we must be therewith content and therefore thankful 1 Tim. 6.8 And having food and rayment let us be therewith content 1 Thes. 5.18 In every thing give thanks Q. 21. What is the third Inference A. That we ascribe not our success in the World to our own skill and industry for the wisest and most industrious do sometimes labour in the fire and put their gain in a bag of holes but to Gods free donation to us and to his Blessing upon our endeavours Gen. 33.5 11. And he lift up his eyes and saw the the women and the children and said who are those with thee And he said the children which God hath graciously given thy Servant Take I pray thee my blessing that is brought to thee because God hath dealt graciously with me and because I have enough Deut 28.3 Blessed shalt thou be in the city and blessed shalt thou be in the field ver 6. Blessed shalt thou when thou comest in and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out Concerning forgiveness of Sins Quest. 105. WHat doth we pray for in the fifth Petition A. In the fifth Petition which is and forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors we pray that God for Christs sake would freely pardon all our Sins which we are the rather encouraged to ask because by this grace we are enabled from the heart to forgive others Q. 1. Why doth this Petition immediately follow the former A. To teach that all temporal and corporal good things without special and Spiritual ones are little worth Psal. 4.6 There be many that say who will shew us any good Lord lift thou up the light of thy countenance upon us Psal. 17.14 15. From men which are thy hand O Lord from men of the world which have their portion in this life and whose belly thou fillest with thy hid treasure they are full of children and leave the rest of their substance to their babes As for me I will behold thy face in righteousness I shall be satisfied when I awake with thy likeness Q. 2. Why is it annexed to the former with the Copulative and A. To teach that to be one minute in the confluence of all earthly good things without the pardon of Sin is a very dangerous and dreadful condition Luke 12.16 20. And he spake a parable unto them saying the ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully but God said unto him thou fool this night shall thy soul be required of thee then whose shall those things be which thou hast provided Q. 3. Why is forgiveness of Sins placed in the front of spiritual Blessings A. Because till sin be pardoned we are under wrath and can have no special saving Grace applyed to us till we are accepted till we are in Christ we have no Covenant right to the blessings of Christ Matt. 11.28 come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden and I will give you rest ver 30. for my yoke is easie and my burden is light John 15.4 5. abide in me and I in you as the branch cannot bear fruit of it self except it abide in the Vine no more can ye except ye abide in me I am the Vine ye are the branches He that abideth in me and I in him the same bringeth forth much fruit for without me ye can do nothing ver 7. if ye abide in me and my words abide in you ye shall ask what ye will and it shall be done unto you John 3. ult He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life but the wrath of God abideth on him Q. 4. Why do we pray for forgiveness cannot we make amends for our sins and be freed from their guilt without pardon A. No all that we can ever do or suffer can never expiate the guilt of the least sin Psal. 49.7 8. None of them can by any means redeem his brother nor give to God a ransom for him For the redemption of their soul is precious and it ceaseth for ever 1 Sam. 2.25 If one man sin against another the judge shall judge him but if a man sin against the Lord who shall entreat for him Q 5. Does God then freely and out of meer Grace forgive us A. Yes without any respect had to any thing we can do or be Isa. 43.25 I even I am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for my own sake and will not remember thy sins Rom. 9.15 I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy and I will have compassion on whom I will have compassion Ver. 18. Therefore hath he mercy on whom he will have mercy and whom he will be hardneth Q. 6. How doth God forgive sins A. 1. Universally all sins Exod. 34.6 7. And the Lord passed by before him and proclaimed the Lord the Lord God merciful and gracious long suffering and abundant in goodness and truth keeping mercy for thousands forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin Jer. 33.8 And I will cleanse them from all their iniquity whereby they have