our obedience to God and not to man whatever we suffer for it Acts. 4.19 Whether it be right in the sight of God to hearken unto you more than unto God judge ye Q. 6. Why must we obey God rather than Man A. Because God is the Supream and Sovereign Lord of our Consciences and no Creature hath power to command our Obedience but in and from him Isa. 33.22 For the Lord is our judge the Lord is our lawgiver the Lord is our King he will save us Q. 7. Have the People Liberty to compare the Laws of God and Men and judge how they agree or differ A. Yes their Judgment of Discretion is both commanded 1 Cor. 10.15 I speak as to wise men judge ye what I say And commended Acts 17.11 These were more noble than those in Thessalonica in that they received the word with all readiness of mind and searched the Scriptures daily whether those things were so Q. 8. What is the only Rule for our Obedience to God A. The will of God revealed in the Scriptures is our only Rule of Obedience Isa. 8.20 To the law and to the testimony if they speak not according to this word it is because there is no light in them Q. 9. But if a man have a voice a vision or a dream seeming to hint the secret will of God may he not obey it A. Yes if it be consonant to the revealed will of God in the word otherwise not Deut 29.29 The secret things belong unto the Lord our God but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever that we may do all the words of this law Q 10. What is the first Instruction hence A. That it 's highly sinful and dangerous to disobey the known will of God in any thing Rom. 1.18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who hold the truth in unrighteousness Luke 12.47 And that servant which knew his Lord's will and prepared not himself neither did according to his will shall be beaten with many stripes Q. 11. What is the second Instruction A. That 's a blessed man who conscienciously labouâ—s to obey the will of God so far as he can discover it Iohn 13.17 If ye know these things happy are ye if ye do them Gal. 6.16 And as many as walk according to this rule peace be on them and mercy Q. 12. What is the third Inference A. It is highly sinful and dangerous to command others or obey commands from others which are not according to God's Command Hos. 5.11 Ephraim is oppressed and broken in judgment because he wilingly walketh after the commandments Jer. 7.31 And they have built the high places of Tophet which is in the valley of the son of Hinnom to burn their sons and their daughters in the fire which I commanded them not neither came it into my heart Of the Moral Law Quest. 40. WHAT did God at first reveal to Man for the Rule of his Obedience A. The Rule which God at first revealed to Man for his Obedience was the Moral Law Q. Where is the Moral Law summarily comprehended A. The Moral Law is summarily comprehended in the Ten Commandments Q. 1. Is every man under the Direction and Obligation of a Law A. Yes being a reasonable Creature is capable of and fitted for Government by Law which other Creatures are not and being an accountable Creature to God must needs be under a Law Rom. 2.15 Which shew the works of the Law written in their hearts their consciences also bearing witness and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another Q. 2. How could man be under a Law before the Law was given by Moses A. Before ever the Law was given at Sinai all the race of Adam had a Law written in their Hearts viz. the Light of Reason and Dictates of natural Conscience Rom. 2.14 For when the Gentiles which have not the law do by nature the things contained in the Law these having not the law are a law unto themselves And besides this the Church had the revealed will of God to direct them 2 Pet. 1.19 20. We have also a more sure word of Prophesy whereunto ye do well to take heed as unto a light that shineth in a dark place until the day down and the day-star arise in your hearts Knowing this first that no prophesy of the Scripture is of any private interpretation Q. 3. What is the meaning of the Moral Law A. 'T is not a Law to direct and order our Manners but a Law that binds universally and perpetually as the Ten Commandments do those to whom they are promulged and the Light of Nature doth all others Rom. 2.14 For when the Gentiles which have not the Law do by nature the things contained in the Law these having not the Law are a Law unto themselves Luke 16.17 It is easier for Heaven and Earth to pass than one tittle of the Law to fall Q. 4. Why is it said to be summarily comprehended in the Ten Commandments A. Because much more is included in every Command than is exprest as our Saviour shews in his Exposition of it Mat. 22.40 On these two Commandments hang all the law and the prophets Q. 6. Doth the Moral Law bind Christians under the Gospel A. Yes it doth as a Rule to order their Conversations by Iam. 2.8 9 10. If ye fulfil the royal law according to the Scripture Thou shalt love thy Neighbour as thy self ye do well but if ye have respect to persons ye commit sin and are convinced of the law as transgressors for whosoever shall keep the whole law and yet offend in one point is guilty of all Q. 6. Is the Moral Law the same thing with the Covenant of Works and imposed for the same end A. God never designed the Law to be the way of Man's Justification since the Fall Gal. 3.21 22. Is the law then against the promises of God God forbid for if there had been a law-giver which could have given life verily righteousness should have been by the law but the Scripture hath concluded all under sin that the promise by faith of Iesus Christ night be given to them that believe But it was promulged to convince Men of Sin Rom. 7 7 What shall we say then Is the law sin God forbid Nay I had not known sin but by the law for I had not known lust except the law had said Thou shalt not covet And bring them to Christ. Gal. 3.24 Wherefore the law was our School-master to bring us unto Christ that we might be justified by faith Q. 7. What is the first Inference from hence A. Hence we learn the abominable Nature of Popery The Pope being that lawless One who will not be bound to the Laws of God himself 2 Thes. 2.8 Then shall that wicked one be revealed whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth
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
to Moses even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression Q. 9. VVhat is the third Inference A. The glorious priviledge of believers who are under a better covenant establisht upon better promises Heb. 8.6 But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry by how much also he is the Mediator of a better covenant which is establisht upon better promises Q. 10. VVhat is the last Inference A. That we should pity the unregenerate especially our own among them and labour to plant them in the second Adam Of the Fall of Man Quest. 13. DID our first Parents continue in the estate wherein they were created A. Our first Parents being left to the freeedom of their own wâ—ll fell from thee estate wherein they were created by sinning against God Q. 1. How doth it appear that man is fallen A. By the Scripture History an account of it in Gen. 3.6 7. And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food and that it was pleasant to the eyes and a tree to be desired to make one wise she took of the fruit thereof and did eat and gave also unto her husband with her and he did eat And the eyes of them both were opened and they knew that they were naked and they sewed fig-leaves together and made themselves Aprons and they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees if the garden And the sad experience we all have of it in our own selves Rom. 5.12 Therefore 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 Q. 2. How could man fall since he was made upright A. Though he was upright yet his will was mutable and by abusing that liberty he fell Eccles. 7.29 Lo this only have I found that God hath made man upright but they have sought out many inventions Q. 3. How did God leave him to abuse the freedom of will A. Not by inclining him to abuse it but by with-holding that further grace which he was no way obliged to continue to him Q. 4. Did the will of man lose its liberty to good by the Fall A. Yes it did and is so wounded that it cannot without preventing and regenerating grace put forth one spiritual and saving act Eph. 2.8 9 10. For by grace are ye saved through faith and that not of our selves it is the gift of God Not of works lest any man should boast for we are all his workmanship created in Christ Iesus unto good works c. Q. 5. VVhat was the aggravation of Adam's Sin A. It was aggravated in his being a publick innocent person so newly placed in a State of Happiness and Liberty Q 6. What is the first inference from the Fall A. That the best Creature left to himself cannot be long safe as the Angels and Adam Psal. 49.12 Nevertheless man being in honour abideth not he is like the beast that perish Q. 7. What is the second Inference A. That since man could not be his own keeper he can be much less his own Saviour 2 Cor. 3.5 Not that we are sufficient of our selves to think any thing as of our sâ—lves but our sufficiency is of God Q. 8. What is the third Inference A. That it is impossible for the covenant of works to justify any one Rom. 3.20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight Rom. 8.3 For what the law could not do in that it was weak through the flesh God sending his own son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin condemned sin in the flesh Q. 9. What is the last Inference A. What cause have we to bless God for Christ who recovered us when the Fall left us helpless Rom. 5.6 For when we were yet without strength in due time Christ died for the ungodly Of Sin Quest. 14. WHAT is Sin A. Sin is any want of conformity unto or transgression of the law of God Q. 1. What is meant by the Law A. The Commands and Rules flowing from God's Soveraignty whereby his will is manifested and the Creature bound to obedience Q. 2. Where is this Law written A. It is written either in the heart Rom. 2.15 Which shews the work of the law written in their hearts which we call the law of nature Or in the Bible which we call the written Moral Law Q. 3. What conformity is due to this Law of God A. A two fold conformity is due to it First Internal in our hearts Secondly External in our lives and the want of either is sin 1 Ioh. 3.4 Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law for sin is the transgression of the law Q 4. How doth it appear that the want of internal conformity is sin A. Because the Law requires it Mark 12.30 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart and with all thy soul and with all thy mind and with all thy strength for this is the first commandment And condemns the want of it Rom. 7.7 What shall we say then is the law sin God forbid nay I had not known sin but by the law for I had not known lust except the law had said Thou shalt not covet Q 5. Is nothing a sin but what is against God's Law A No nothing can be a sin but what God hath either expresly or by consequence forbidden in his word Q 6 Wherein lies the evil of transgressing God's Laws A. The evil of sin principally lies in offence and wrong done to God whose soveraignty it labours to shake off and despises his will Psal. 31.4 Against thee thee only have I sinned and done this evil in thy sight Q. 7. VVhat further evil is in sin A. It highly wrongs the Sinner's Soul by defacing defiling and damning it Prov. 8.36 But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul all they that hate me love death Q. 8. VVherein is the evil of sin manifested A. It 's manifested in the death of Christ the terrors of Conscience and torments of Hell Q. 9. VVhat course must the Sinner take to recover himself out of his misery A. Repentance towards God faith towards Christ and both evidenced by new obediencâ— Acts 20.21 Testifying both to the Jew and also to the Greeks repentance towards God and faith towards our Lord Iesus Christ. Q. 10. VVhat may we infer from hence A. That we have infinite cause to bless God for Christ's satisfaction of the Law for our Sins Of the Tree of Knowledge Quest. 15. WHat is the sin whereby our first Parents fell from the Estate wherein they were created A. The sin whereby our first Parents fell from the Estate wherein they were created was their eating the forbidden fruit Q. 1 VVhy was this Tree called the Tree of Knowledge A.
By Christ the only Redeemer Tit. 3.4 5 6. 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 washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost which he shed on us abundantly through Iesus Christ our Saviour Q. 6. Is there no other way of Salvation but by Christ A. No no other way is revealed in Scripture Acts 4.12 Neither is there salvation in any other for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved Q 7. What learn you from God's Election A. What cause we have to admire Free-grace in our choice who were no better than others Eph. 2.3 And were by nature children of wrath even as others Q. 8. What is the second Instructâ—on A It teaches us humility we made not our selves to differ but the free grace of God made the difference 1 Cor. 4.7 For who maketh thee to differ from another Q. 9. What is the third Instruction A. It teaches us diligence to make our Election sure to our selves by our calling 2 Pet. 1.10 Wherefore the rather brethren give diligence to make your calling and election sure Q. 10. What is the fourth Instruction A. It is matter of comfort to God's Elect amidst all dangers in the world 2 Tim. 2.19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure having this seal The Lord knoweth them that are his Of the Covenant of Grace Quest. 1. WHat is the Covenant of Grace A. It is a new compact or agreement made with Sinners out of meer grace wherein God promiseth to be our God and that we shall be his people and to give everlasting life to all that believe in Christ. 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 will be their God and thâ—y shall be my people Q 2. How doth this covenant differ from the Covenant of works A. They differ many ways but principally in three things First The Covenant of works had no Mediator the Covenant of Grace hath a Mediator Heb. 12.24 And to Iesus the Mediator of the new Covenant Secondly In the former no place was found for repentance In the Second God admits it Heb. 8.10 For this is the covenant that I will make with the House of Israel after those days saith the Lord I will put my laws in their minds and write them in their hearts and I will be to them a God and they shall be to me a people Ver. 12. For I will be merciful to their unrighteousness and their sins will I remember no more Thirdly In their condition the former requires exact Obedience the latter Faith and sincere Obedience Mark 16.16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved Q. 3. May a Sinner that hath no worthiness at all of his own be taken into the Covenant of Grace A. Yes he may Isa. 43 25. I even I am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake and will not remember thy sins This Covenant is not of Works but of Grace Rom. 11.5 6. And if by grace then it is no more of works otherwise grace is no more grace but if it be of works then it is no more grace otherwise work is no more work Q 4. Is this Covenant changeable or an unchangeable Covenant A. No it is not changeable but everlasting and unchangeable forever Isa. 54.10 For the mountains shall depart and the hills be removed but my kindness shall not depart from thee neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed saith the Lâ—rd that hath mercy on thee Q. 5. What are the principal things bestowed in this Covenant A. God himself and in and with him pardon and salvation Ier. 31.33 I will be their God and they shall be my people Q. 6. Can no Sin be forgiven out of this Covenant A. No God pardons none out of this Covenant Iob 3.18 But he that believeth not is condemned already Q. 7. What is the first Instruction hence A. Humbled and believing Sinners have singular support from this New Covenant 1 Iohn 2.12 I write unto you little children because your sins are forgiven you for his name sake Q. 8. What is the second Instruction from hence A. That 't is the great concern of all men to examine whether they be in this Covenant or no. 2 Cor. 13.5 Examine your selves whether ye be in the faith prove your own selves know ye not your own selves how that Iesus Christ is in you except yâ— be reprobates Q. 9. What is the third Instruction A. See here the miserable State of the wicked which have no interest in it Psal. 50.16 But unto the wicked God saith What hast thou to do to declare my Statutes or that thou shouldst take my covenant in thy mouth Q. 10. What is the last Instruction A. That Christians are obliged to walk as people in Covenant with God 1 Pet. 2.9 But ye are a chosen generation a royal priesthood an holy nation a peculiar people that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light Of the only Redeemer Quest. 21. WHo is the Redeemer of God's Elect A. The only Redeemer of God's Elect is the Lord Iesus Christ who being the Eternal Son of God became man and so was and continueth to be God and Man in two distinct natures and one person for ever Q. 1. What doth the name Redeemer signify A. It signifies one that frees another out of Captivity and Bondage as Christ did Matt. 20.28 And to give his life a ransome for many Q. 2. What was the misery from which Christ delivered us A. A twofold misery vis Sin and Hell First Sin Mat. 1.21 Thou shalt call his name Iesus for he shall save his people from their sins Secondly Hell 1 Thes. 1.10 Even Iesus who delivered us from the wrath to come Q. 3. How did Christ deliver us from this Misery A. First By Price Secâ—udly By Power By Price 1 Pet. 1.18 19. Ye are not redeemed with silver and gold from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers but with the precious blood of Christ as of a lamb without blemish and without spot By power Col. 1.13 Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness and hath translated us into the Kingdom of his dear son Q. 4. When was the Redemption wrought by Christ A. It was decreed from Eternity it was actually wrought on the Cross. Col. 1.20 And having made peace through the blood of his cross by him to reconcile all things unto him self by him I say whether they be things in earth or things in heaven Q. 5. How then could they be redeemed that died before A. Though Christ's Blood was actually shed after
works Q. 5. How is Christ's righteousness made ours A. By Application of it to us by Faith Gal. 2.16 Knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the law but by the faith of Iesus Christ even we have believed in Iesus Christ that we might be justified by the faith of Christ and not by the works of the law for by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified Q. 6. Is it not partly by Christ's Righteousness and partly our own A. No by Christ's Righteousness without any mixture of ours Rom. 3.28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law Q. 7. But doth not James says otherwise Jam. 2.14 What doth it profit my brethren though a man say he hath faith and have not works Can faith save him A. The two Apostles contradict not one another Paul speaks of Justification before God and Iames of justifying our Faith before men Q. 8. Is no regard then to be had to good works A. Yes very great they that believe must be careful to maintain good works Tit. 3.8 That they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works These things are good and profitable unto men Q. 9. Why can none be justified by works A. Because all are guilty before God Rom. 3.29 Is he the God of the Iews only Is he not also of the Gentiles Yes of the Gentiles also And the Law curses all that are under guilt 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. 10. What is the first Inference from hence A. The happy State of Believers who are now at peace with God Rom. 5.1 Therefore being justified by faith we have peace with God through our Lord Iesus Christ. And whom he justifieth he glorifieth Rom. 8.30 Whom he justified them he also golrified Q. 11. What is the second Inference hence A. The excellency and necessity of Faith Rom. 3.30 The circumcision is justified by faith and the uncircumcision through faith Q. 12. What is the third Inference A. That the greatness of sin is no bar to faith since it is the Righteousness of Christ that justifieth 2 Cor. 5.21 For he hath made him to be sin for us who knew no sin that we may be made the righteousness of God in him Q. 13. What is the last Inference A. That Believers ought to be exceeding humble and far from boasting The Law of Faith excludes boasting Rom. 3.27 Where is boasting then It is excluded by what law Of works nay but by the law of faith Of Adoption Quest. 34. WHAT is Adoption A. Adoption is an act of God's Free-grace whereby we are received into the number and have a Right to all the Priviledges of the Sons of God Q. 1. How many sorts of Sons be there A. There is one by Generation and another by Adoption Iohn 1.12 13. But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the Sons of God even to them that believe in his name which were born not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man but of God Q. 2. What moves God to adopt any man A. Nothing but his Free-love Iohn 3.1 Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed on us that we should be called the Son of God Q. 3. Is this priviledge common to all men A. No it 's peculiar to them that receive him Iohn 1.12 But as many as received him to them gave he power to become the Sons of God Q. 4. What is the first property of Adoption A. It is a costly Relation Gal. 4.45 When the fulness of time was come God sent forth his Sâ—n made of a woman made under the law to redeem them that were under the law that we might receive the adoption of sons Q. 5. What is the second property of Adoption A. It is an high and honourable relation 1 Iohn 3 1â—â— Behold what manner of love the father hath bestowed upon us thaâ— we should be called the Sons of God Q. 6. What is the third property of Adoption A. It is a free relation on God's part Eph. 1.45 Accordâ—ing as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world that we should be holy and without blame before him in love Havâ—ing predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Iesus Chriâ—â— to himself according to the good pleasure of his will And 〈◊〉 makes us free Iohn 8.36 If the son therefore shall make you free ye shall be free indeed Q. 7. What is the fourth property of Adoption A. It is a permanent relation Iohn 8.35 The son abideth in the house for ever Q. 8. What is the first priviledge of the adopted A. They have an interest in God as Children in a Father 2 Cor. 6.18 And will be a father unto you and ye shall be my sons and daughters saith the Lord Almighty Q. 9. What is the second Priviledge A. Being God's Sons they are Heirs of God and joyâ—â— Heirs with Christ. Rom. 8.17 And if children then heirs Heirs of God and joynt heirs with Christ. Q. 10. What is the third Priviledge A. Seasonable and sanctified afflictions Heb. 12.6 〈◊〉 scourgeth every son whom he receiveth Q. 11. What is their fourth Priviledge A. The Attendance and Ministry of Angels Heb. 1 1â— Are they not all ministring spirits sent forth to minister for thâ—â— who shall be heirs of salvation Q. 12. What is their fifth Priviledge A. The assistance of the Spirit in Prayer Rom. 8.15 Foâ— we have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear but yâ—â— have received the spirit of adoption whereby we cry Abba fatherâ— And God's audience of their Prayers 1 Iohn 5.14 Aâ—â— this is the confidence that we have in him That if we ask any tâ—ing according to his will he heareth us Q. 13. What use should we make of this A. It teachech us to carry our selves as Children to our â—eavenly Father First In our imitation of him Eph. 5. â— Be ye therefore followers of God as dear children Secondly In â—ur submission to him Heb. 12.9 Furthermore we have had â—athers of our flesh which corrected us and we gave them reverence â—hall we not much rather be in subjection to the father of spirits â—nd live Thirdly In our dependance on him Mat. 6.32 â—or your heavenly father knoweth that you have need of all â—hese things Of Sanctification Quest. 35. WHAT is Sanctification A. Sanctifitation is the work of God's Free-grace whereby we are renewed in the whole man after the Image of God and are enabled more and more to die unto sin and live unto righteousness Q. 1. What are the parts of Sanctification A. Dying unto Sin and living unto God Rom. 6.11 Likewise reckon ye also your selves to be dead indeed unto sin but alive unto God througe Iesus Christ our Lord. Q. 2. Who is the
12.10 15. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love in honour preâ—eâ—â—ing one another Rejoyce with them that do rejoyce and weep with them that weep Q. 7. What 's the first Sin forbidden in this Commandment A. It directly and especially forbids all sinful and inordinate desires and motions after other Mens enjoyments Col. 3.5 Mortifie therefore your members which are upon the earth fornication uncleanness inordinate affection evil concupiscence and covetousness which is idolatry Q. 8. What 's the second Sin forbidden in this Commandment A. It forbids all cruelty and incompassionateness to others in necessity and keeping back from them that relief which is made theirs by Gods command Prov. 11.24 There is that with-holdeth more than is meet but it tendeth to poverty Lev. 19.9 10. And when ye reap the harvest of your land thou shalt not wholly reap the corners of thy field neither shalt thou gather the gleanings of thy harvest And thou shalt not glean thy vineyard neither shalt thou gather every grape of thy vineyard thou shalt leave them for the poor and stranger I am the Lord your God Q. 9. What is the third Sin forbidden in this Command A. It forbids the detaining of the Hirelings Wages when it is due Hab. 2.9 10 11. Wo to him that coveteth an evil covetousness to his house that he may set his nest on high that he may be delivered from the power of evil Thou hast consulted shame to thy house by cutting off many people and hast sinned against thy soul. For the stone shall cry out of the wall and the beam out of the timber shall answer it Q. 10. What 's the fourth Sin forbidden in this Commandment A. It forbids all inward grudgings at and envyings of the enjoyments of others whether they be inward Goods of the Mind or outward belonging to the Body 1 Cor. 13.4 Charity envieth not c. Q. 11. What 's the mischief of Covetousness A. It distracts the Heart in Duties Ezek. 33.31 And they come unto thee as the people cometh and they sit before thee as my people and they hear thy words but they will not do them for with their mouth they show much love but their heart goeth after their covetousness Provokes the wrath of God Isa. 57.17 For the iniquity of his covetousness was I wroth and smote him c. And where it reigns it becomes Idolatry Col. 3.5 And covetousness which is Idolatry Q. 12. What 's the first Inference hence A. It calls all men to humiliation for the inordinacy of their Affections towards the World their discontent with their own and envyings of others conditions Q. 13. What 's the second Inference hence A. As ever we would keep clear from this sin let us make God our portion Psal. 16.5 6. The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup thou maintainest my lot And labour to get the Soul-satisfying comforts of his Spirit Iohn 4.14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst c. 2 Cor. 6.10 As having nothing and yet possessing all things Q. 14. What 's the last Inference hence A. If God have given us a sufficiency of the things of this life for our necessity let us be satisfied though we want other things for our delight 1 Tim. 6.8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content And relieve our selves by an expectation of those better things laid up in Heaven for us if we be believers Iam. 2.5 Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him Of keeping the Law Quest. 82. IS any man able perfectly to keep the Commandments of God A. No meer man since the fall is able in this life perfectly to keep the Commandments of God but doth dayly break them in Thought Word and Deed. Q. 1. Wherein doth thâ— perfect keeping of Gods Law consist A. It consists in the perfect and constant conformity of the internal and external Actions of Heart and Life to every Command of God 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 Matth. 22.37 38 39. Iesus said unto him thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul and with all thy mind This is the first and great Commandment And the second is like unto it Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thy self Q. 2. But if a man commit no external act against the Law may he not be said perfectly to keep it although in mind or thought he should transgress A. No for an inward motion of sin in the Heart that never breaks forth into act is a violation of the Law and brings the Soul under the curse of it Matth. 5.21 22. Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time Thou shalt not kill and whâ—soever shall kill shall be in danger of the judgment But I say unto you that whosoever is angry with hâ—s brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment c. And ver 27 28. Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time Thou shalt not commit adultery But I say unto you that whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart Q. 3. May not a man keep the Law if he keep some of its Commands though he cannot keep every one of them punctually A. No he cannot for the transgression of any one Command in the least degree is a breach of all and brings the curse of the whole upon a Mans Soul Iam. 2.10 For who soever shall keep the whole law and yet offend in one point he is guilty of all Q. 4. Was the Law never kept by any since it was made A. Yes Adam in his innocent state kept it for he was made upright Eccles. 7.29 God made man upright c. And Christ perfectly kept it Matth. 5.17 Think not that I am come to destroy the law or the prophets I am not come to destroy but to fulfil Q. 5. What 's the first Reason why no meer man in this life can fulfil and keep the law of God perfectly A. It is because the Law of God is perfect and the best of Men in this life are imperfect Psal. 19.7 The law of the Lord is perfect c. Eccles. 7.20 For there is not a just man upon earth that doeth good and sinneth not Q. 6. But may not Men perfectly keep it when regenerate and born of God A. No because even in the regenerate there is a Law of Sin which wars against the Law of God Gal. 5.17 For the flesh lusteth against the spirit and the spirit against the flesh c. Rom. 7.22 23. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man But I see another law in my members warring against the law
strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect towards him Q. 9. VVhat is the third Instruction A. That all plots against the Church shall surely be defeated Isa. 54.17 No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper Q 10. VVhat is the fourth Instruction A. It gives the Saints full satisfaction in all conditions Rom. 8.28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God to them that â—re called according to his purpose Q. 11. VVhat is the last Inference A. We should not stand in a slavish fear of men Isa. 51.12 I even I am he that comforteth you who art thou that hou shouldst be afraid of a man that shall die and of the son of man which shall be made as grass Of Christ's Humiliation Quest. 27. WHerein did Christ's Humiliation consist A. Christ's Humiliation consists in his being born and that in a low condition made under the Law undergoing the miseries of this life the wrath of God and the cursed death of the cross in being buried and continuing under the power of death for a time Q. 1. VVhat doth Christ's humbling of himself import A. His voluntariness in the deepest point of Self-denial Psal. 40.7 Then said I lo I come in the volume of the book it iâ— written of me Q 2. VVhat was the first act of Christ's Humiliation A. His taking man's Nature on him with all its sinless Infirmities Rom. 8.3 God sending his own son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin condemned sin in the flesh Q. 3. What is the second part of his Humiliation A. That mean life he lived in this world which obscured his Divine Glory Mark 6.3 Is not this the carpenter the son of Mary Q 4. VVhat was the first thing in Christ's Life that humbled him A. The poverty of it Mat. 8.20 And Iesus saith unto him The foxes have holes and the birds of the air have nests but the son of man hath not where to lay his head Q 5. VVhat was the second thing in his life that humbled him A. The Temptations of Satan to which he was subject Mat. 4.1 Then was Iesus led up of the spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil and that for our sakes Heb. 2.17 VVherefore in all things it behoveth him to be made like unto his brethren v. 18. For in that he himself hath sâ—ffered being tempted he is able to succour them that are tempted Q 6. What is the third thing in Christ that humbled him A. His subjection to the Law Gal. 4.4 But when the fulness of the time was come God sent forth his son made of a woman made under the law Q 7. What was the fourth thing in Christ's life that humbled him A. The Reviling and Contradictions of Sinners Heb. 12.3 For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself Q. 8. Wherein was Christ humbled in his death A. His death was painful and ignominious Gal. 3.13 Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law being made a curse for us For it is written Cursed is every one that hangeth oâ— a tree Made a curse for us and deserted in it Mat. 27.46 And about the ninth hour Iesus cried with a loud voice saying Eli Eli Lamasabachthani that is to say My God my God why hast thou forsaken me Q 9. What is the first Inference from hence A. That lowliness and humility becomes Christ's Followers Mat. 11.29 Take my yoke upon you and learn of me for I am meek and lowly in heart Q. 10. What is the second Inference A. That Christ's love to Sinners is astonishingly great 2 Cor. 8.9 For ye know the grace of our Lord Iesus Christ that though he was rich yet for your sakes he became poor that ye through his poverty might be made rich Q. 11. What is the third Inference A. Christians should be ready to suffer for Christ. 1 Pet. 4.1 Forasmuch as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh arm your selves likewise with the same mind for he that hath suffered in the flesh hath ceased from sin Q. 12. What is the last Inference A. That Humiliation is the true way to Exaltation Mat. 23.12 And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted Of Christ's Exaltation Quest. 28. WHerein consists Christ's Exaltation A. Christ's Exaltation consists in his rising again from the dead on the third day in ascending up into heaven in sitting at the right hand of God the Father and in coming to judge the World at the last day Q. 1. What is the first step of Christ's Exaltation A. His Resurrection from the dead Q. 2. How doth his Resurrection appear A. By the Scripture Prophesies accomplisht in him 1 Cor. 15.4 And that he was buried and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures Q 3. Why did Christ rise again A. To establish our Faith and abolish our Sins 1 Cor. 15.17 And if Christ be not risen your faith is vain you are yet in your sins Q. 4. What other end was there of Christ's Resurrection A. To declare his Divine Power Rom. 1.4 And declareâ— to be the son of God with power according to the spirit of holiness by the resurrection from the dead And to evidence the fulness of his satisfaction John 16.10 Of rihgteousness because I go to my father and ye see me no more Q. 5. Did Christ rise in the same Body he laid down A. It was substantially the same Iohn 20.27 Then saith he to Thomas Reach hither thy finger and behold my hands and reach hither thy hand and thrust it into my side and be not faithless but believing Q. 6. What doth Christ's Resurrection teach us A. The certainty of Resurrection after death 1 Cor. 15.20 But now is Christ risen from the dead and become the first fruits of them that slept Q. 7. What was the second step of Christ's Exaltation A. His Ascention after forty days into Heaven Acts 1.2 3. Until the day in which he was taken up after that he through the Holy Ghost had given commandments unto the Apostles whom he had â—hosen to whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs being seen of them forty days and speaking of the things pertaining to the kingdom of God Q. 8. VVhy did Christ stay so long on Earth A. To assure the truth of his Resurrection and to settle the due Government of his Church Acts 1.2 3. Q. 9. For what end did he ascend A. To take possession of his glory Iohn 17.5 And now O father glorify thou me with thine own self with the glory which I had with thee before the world was And that as our fore-runner Heb. 6.20 VVhither the fore-runner is for us entred even Iesus c. Q. 10. In what manner did Christ ascend A. Triumphantly and magnificently Psal. 47.5 God is gone up with a shout the Lord with a sound
say wherein have we despised thy name Q. 2. What is the first thing especially required in the third Commandment A. It requires the most aweful and reverential frame of our hearts in all our approaches to God Psal. 89.7 God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints and to he had in reverence of all them that are about him And in his Worship Ioh. 4.24 God is a spirit and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth Q. 3. What 's the second thing required in this Commandment A It requires truth in our witness-bearing as knowing God seeth our hearts and is witness to all that we think or speak Zech. 5.4 I will bring it forth saith the Lord of hosts and it shall enter into the house of the thief and into the house of him that sweareth â—alsly by my name c. Q. 4. What 's the third thing required in this Commandment A. That in all our Appeals to God in secret or doubtful matters we be sure that the Appeal be necessary aweful and true Ier 17.16 As for me I have not hastened from being a pastour to follow thee neither have I desired the woful day thou knowest that which came out of my lips was right before thee Psal. 139.23 24 Search me O God and know my heart try me and know my thoughts And set if there be any wicked way in me and lead me in the way everlasting Q. 5. What doth this Commandment especially forbid A. It forbids and condemns all profane Oaths as most injurious to the Name of God Matth. 5.34 37. Swear not at all neither by heaven for it is Goâ—s throne c. but let your communication be yea yea nay nay for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil Q. 6. VVhat is the danger of profane or false Swearing A. Such are reckoned Enemies to God Psal. 139.20 Thine enemies take thy name in vain The Curse of God enters into such Families Zech. 5.4 I will bring it forth saith the Lord of hosts and it shall enter into the hoâ—se of the thief and into the house of him that sweareth falsly by my name c. And the Lord will not hold them guiltless Q. 7. VVhat else is forbidden in this Commandment A. It forbids and condemns all heedless wandering and drowsie performance of Gods Worship Isa. 29.13 14. VVherefore the Lord said forasmuch as this people drew near me with their mouth and with their lips do honour me bâ—t have removed their heart far from me and their fear towards me is taught by the precept of men Therefore behold I will proceed to do a marvellous work amongst this people even a marvellous work and a wonder for the wisdom of their wise men shall perish and the understanding of their prudent men shall be hid And 2 Kings 10.31 But Iehu took no heed to walk in the law of the Lord God of Israel with all his heart for he departed not from the sins of Ieroboam which made Israel to sin Q. 8. What other sin is forbidden in this Command A. It forbids all light and irreverent use of the Scriptures especially in our jests or by way of scoffing Ier. 17.15 Behold they say unto me where is the word of the Lord let it come nowe Jer. 6.10 Behold the word of the Lord is unto them a reproach they have no delight in it Q. 9. By what Argument doth God enforce the third Commandment on men A. That the breakers of this Command shall surely be punished by the Lord either in this life Deut. 28.58 59. If thou wilt not observe to do all the words of this law that are written in this book that thou mayest fear this glorious and fearful name The Lord thy God Then the Lord will make thy plagues wonderful and the plagues of thy seed even great plagues and of long continuance and sore sickness and of long continuance Or in that to come Rom. 2.5 But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thy self wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God Except they repent and reform Q. 10. What 's the first Instruction from the third Commandment A. That great and infinite is the Patience of God in forbearing provoking Sinners so long as he doth Romans 9.22 VVhat if God willing to shew his wrath and to make his power known endured with much long-suffering the vessels of wrath fitted to destruction Q. 11. VVhat 's the second Instruction from hence A. That God is to be justified in the severest of his Judgments by which at any time he manifests his displeasure against the profaneness of the World Hos. 4.1 2 3. Hear the word of the Lord ye children of Israel for the Lord hath a controversie with the inhabitants of the land because there is no truth nor mercy nor knowledge of God in the land By swearing and lying and killing and stealing and committing adultery they break out and bloud toucheth bloud Therefore shall the land â—ourn and every one that dwelleth therein shall languish with the beasts of the field and with the fowls of heaven yea the fishes of the sea also shall be taken away Q. 12. What 's the third Instruction from hence A. That God takes special notice of and greatly delighteth in them that fear and reverence his Name Isa. 66.5 Hear the word of the Lord ye that tremble at his word Your brethren that hated you that cast you out for my names sake said let the Lord be glorified but he shall appeaâ— to your joy and they shall be ashamed Mal. 3.16 And a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the Lord and that thought upon his name Q. 13. What 's the last Inference from hence A. That those Parents have much to answer for that by their Examples teach or by their Negligence encourage their Children to profane Gods Name Ier. 5 7. How shall I pardon thee for this Thy children have forsaken me and sworn by them that are no Gods c. Of the Sabbath Quest. 57. WHich is the fourth Commandment A. The fourth Commandment is Remember the Sabbath day to keep it holy Six days shalt thou labour and do all thy work but the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord thy God in it thou shalt not do any work thou nor thy Son nor thy Daughter thy Man-servant nor thy Maid-servant nor thy Cattle nor thy Stranger which is within thy Gates For in six dayes the Lord made Heaven and Earth the Sea and all that in them is and rested the seventh day wherefore the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and hallowed it Quest. 58. What is required in the fourth Commandment A. The fourth Commandment requireth the keeping holy to God such set time as he hath appointed in his Word expresly one whole day in seven to be an holy Sabbath unto the Lord. Quest. 59. Which day of the seven hath God
of my mind c. And though they are said not to sin 1 Iohn 3.9 Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin c. that is not to be taken absolutely but comparatively as they once did and others still do Q. 7. But did not Christ command the young man to keep the Law A. 'T is true that Christ did put the young man upon this task Matth. 19.17 If thou wilt enter into life keep the commandments But it was not on a supposition that he was able to do it but to convince him of the impossibility of Justification that way Q. 8. But doth not the Apostle say that the righteousness of the laâ—â— is fulfilled in Believers A. 'T is true that the Apostle doth say so Rom. 8.4 but the meaning is not that we fulfil it in our own persons by our compleat obedience to it but it is fulfilled in us by our union with Christ who perfectly kept it and that Righteousness of the Law which is in Christ becomes ours by Gods imputation of it to us Rom. 4.23 24. Now it was not written for his sake alone that it was imputed to him But for us also to whom it shall be imputed if we believe on him that raised up Iesus our Lord from the dead Q 9. What is the first Inference from hence A. That Justification by our own Works is utterly impossible to the holiest of Men Gal. 2.16 For by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified Psal. 130.3 If thou Lord shouldst mark iniquities O Lord who shall stand Q. 10. What 's the second Inference from hence A. Hence we learn what an infinite Mercy it is that God sent Jesus Christ made under the Law Gal. 4.4 5. But when the fulness of time was come God sent forth his son made of a woman made under the law c. To do that for us we could never do for our selves Rom. 8.3 4. For what the law could not do in that it was weak thâ—ough the flesh God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and for sin condemned sin in the flesh That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us who walk not after the flesh but after the spirit Q. 11. What 's the third Inference from hence A. That the dreadful Curse must needs lye on all Unbelievers that are out of Christ Iohn 3.36 He that believeth not the Son shall not see life but the wrath of God abideth on him And seek their Justification by the deeds of the Law Gal. 3.10 For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse c. Q. 12. What 's the fourth Inference from hence A. What a deluge of sin and misery brake in upon the whole World by the fall of Adam and all his Posterity being by him plunged under both Rom. 5.12 Wherefore as by one man siâ— entered into the world and death by sin and so death passed upon all men for that all have sinned Q. 13. What 's the fifth Inference from hence A. That the Popish Doctrines of Merits and Works of Supererogation are false and groundless Doctrines springing out of the ignorance aud pride of mans heart Q. 14. What 's the last Inference from hence A. That all Gods people should sigh under their unhappy necessity of sinning Rom. 7.24 O wretched man that I am who shall deliver me from the body of this death And long to be with Christ in the perfect state Hebr. 12.23 And to the spirits of just men made perfect Of the inequality of Sin Quest. 83. ARe all Transgressions of the Law equally hainous A. Some Sins in themselves and by reason of several Aggravations are more hainous in the sight of God than others Q. 1 Whence ariseth the first difference of sin A. The first difference betwixt one sin and another ariseth from the immediate object against which the sin is committed on this account sins immediately committed against God are more heinous than sins committed immediately against Man 1 Sam. 2.25 If one man sin against another the Iudge shall judge him but if a man sin against the Lord who shall intreat for him And all sins of the First Table are greater than those of the Second yet there are crying sins against the Second Q. 2. What 's the first sin noted for an heinous sin A. The sin of Murder is in Scripture set down for an heinous and crying sin in its own nature Gen. 4.10 The voice of thy brothers blood cryeth unto me from the earth Q. 3. What other sin is noted for a crying sin A. The sin of Oppression is noted in Scripture for a crying sin Hab. 2.11 For the stone shall cry out of the wall and the oâ—am out of the timber shall answer it Especially the oppression of the Widow and Fatherless Exod. 22.22 23. Ye shall not afflict any widow or fatherless child If thou afflict them in any wise and they cry at all unto me I will surely hear their cry Q. 4. What is reckoned in Scripture an heinous sin against the First Table A. The sin of Atheism or denying the Being of God is a sin of the first magnitude Iob 31.28 This also were an iniquity to be punished by the Iudge for I should have denyed the God that is above This was the sin of Pharaoh Exod. 5.2 And Pharaoh said who is the Lord that I should obey his voice to let Israel go I know not the Lord neither will I let Israel go Q. 5. What other sin is heinous in Gods account A. The sin of Idolatry is a most heinous sin and goes nearer to the heart of God than other sins do Ezek. 6.9 And they that escape of you shall remember me among the nations whither they shall be carried captives because I am broken with their whâ—rish heart which hath departed from me and with their eyes which go a whoring after their idols and they shall loath themselves for the evils which they have committed in all their abominations Jer. 44.4 Oh do not this abominable thing that I hate Q. 6. What 's the most heinous of all the sins in the world A. The sin against the Holy Ghost is the most heinous of all other sins and shall never be forgiven by Him Matth. 12.31 All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men Q. 7. From whence doth this Scripture aggravate sin A The Spirit of God in Scripture aggravates and estimates sin from the degree of light and knowledge Men sin against Luke 12.47 And that servant which knew his Lords will and prepared not himself neither did according to his will shall be beaten with many stripes John 15.22 If I had not come and spoken unto them they had not had sin but now they have no cloak for their sin Q. 8. What 's the second thing that aggravates sin A. The more Mercies any man