and have worshipped and have sacrificed thereunto and said these be thy Gods O Israel which have brought thee up out of the land of Egypt Deut. 4.15 16. Take ye therefore good heed unto your selves for ye saw no manner of similitude on the day that the Lord spake unto you in Horeb out of the midst of the fire lest ye corrupt your selves and make you a graven image the similitude of any figure the likeness of male or female Q. 2. What is the second Sin forbidden in this Commandment A. The second Sin against this Commandment is Will-worship consisting in the addition of mans inventions to the Worship of God as a part thereof Matth. 15.9 But in vain do they worship me teaching for doctrines the commandments of men Col. 2.20 21 22 23. Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world why as though living in the world are ye subject to ordinances Touch not taste not bandle not Which all are to perish with the using after the commandments and doctrines of men which things have indeed a shew of wisdom in will-worship and humility and neglecting of the body not in any honour to the satisfying of the flesh Q. 3. But if those additions be for the more decent worshipping of God is it not allowed by 1 Cor. 14.40 Let all things be done decently and in order A. No That Scripture commands that Gods Institutions be regularly and decently performed but not that we invent Ceremonies that are symbolical to make them more decent than Christ left them Q. 4. Why is the second Commandment left out in all the publick Offices of the Popish Church A. Because it expresly condemns their Idolatrous Images kneeling at the Sacrament Prayers to Saints and all their Superstitious Crosses Surplices Chrisme as sinful Q. 5. Do they not clear themseâ—ves from Idolatry by telling us they only worship God before or by them but not the Images themselves A. No they do not for the use of Images in Gods Worship is expresly condemned in this Commandment and if this would excuse the Papists it had also excused the Israelites in worshipping the Calâ— Exod. 32.4 And they said these 〈◊〉 thy Gods O Israel that brought thee up out of the land of Egypt Q. 6. What 's the first Reason annexed to the second Commandment A. The first Reason annexed is Gods Sovereignty I the Lord which shews that it belongs to God only to institute his own Worship and make it effectual and therefore to do that in his Worship which he never commanded is sinful and dangerous Ier. 7.31 And they have built the high places of Tophâ—t which is in the valley of the son of Hinnom to burn their sons and their daughters in the fire which I commanded them not neither came it into my heart Q. 7. What 's the second Reason annexed to the second Commandment A. The second Reason is Gods Propriety in us he is our God and we belong to him and therefore to corrupt his Worship greatly aggravates our Sin Hos. 9.1 Rejoyce not O Israel for joy as other people for thou hast gone a whoring from thy God c. Q. 8. What 's the third Reason annexed to the second Commandment A. The jealousie of God over his Worship and Worshippers so that this sin of corrupting his Worship will dreadfully incense his wrath as it did Levit. 10.1 2. And Nadab and Abihu the sons of Aaron took either of them his censer and put fire thereon and offered strange fire before the Lord which he commanded them not And there went out fire from the Lord and devoured them and they dyed before the Lord. Q. 9. What 's the first Instruction from the second Commandment A. That it is an hainous sin to neglect the Worship of God in that manner he hath appointed us to Worship him as in Prayer Ier. 10.25 Pour out thy fury upon the Heathen that know thee not and upon the families that call not on thy name Hearing the Word Prov. 28.9 He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law even his prayer shall be abomination Q. 10. What 's the second Instruction from the second Commandment A. That those that suffer for endeavouring to preserve the purity of Gods Ordinances and non-conformity to the contrary injunctions of men have a good warrant to bear them out in all such Sufferings Deut. 4.2 Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you neither shall you diminish ought from it that ye may keep the Commandments of the Lord your God which I command you c. Q. 11. What 's the third Instruction from the second Commandment A. That it is highly sinful and dangerous to innovate and prescribe by Humane Authority such symbolical Rites in the Worship of God as he never appointed or allowed in his Word Matth. 15.9 But in vain do they worship me teaching for doctrines the commandments of men Q. 12. What 's the fourth Instruction hence A. Hence we learn how much Parents and Children are obliged to worship God constantly spirâ—tually and agreeably to his Will revealed in his Word otherwise the jealousie of God will visit them both in the way of Judgment For as Obedience entails a Blessing so Disobedience entails a Curse on Posterity Exod. 34 14. For thou shalt worship no other God for the Lord whose name is jealous is a jealous God Of the third Commandment Quest. 53. WHich is the third Commandment A. The third Commandment is Thou shalt not take the Name of the Lord thy God in vain for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his Name in vain Quest. 54. What is required in the third Commandment A. The third Commandment requireth the holy and reverend use of Gods Names Titles Attributes Ordinances Word and Works Quest. 55. What is forbidden in the third Commandment A. The third Commandment forbiddeth all profaning or abusing of any thing whereby God maketh himself known Quest. 56. What is the Reason annexed to the third Commandment A. The Reason annexed to the third Commandment is that however the breakers of this Commandment may escape punishment from men yet the Lord our God will not suffer them to escape his Righteous Iudgment Q. 1. How doth this Commandment differ from the first and second A. The first hath respect to the object of Worship forbidding us to worship any other but God The second respects the means of Worship forbidding us to worship God by any other means than what he hath prescribed But the third respects the manner of his Worship â—orbidding all careless or profane use of his Name and commanding an holy reverence from us in all our solemn addresses to him or ordinary mention of his Name Maâ— 1.6 A son honoureth his father and a servant his master If I then be a father where is mine honour and if I be a master where is my fear saith the Lord of hosts unto you O Priests that despise my name And ye
no hope and without God in the world Q. 14. Wâ—at â—s the last Instruction hence A. That those that perish in the midst of Ordinances and means of Salvation will perish with aggravated perdition Matth. 11.23 And thou Capernaum which art exalted unto heaven shalt be brought down to hell for if the mighty works which have been done in thee had been done in Sodom it would have remained until this day Of the Word read and heard Quest. 89. HOw is the Word made effectual to Salvation A. The Spirit of God maketh the reading but especially the preaching of the Word an effectual means of convincing and converting sinners and building them up in holiness and comfort through Faith unto Salvation Q. 1. What mean you by the Word A. By the Word is meant the Word of God consigned to writing in the Books of the Old and New Testament which though it be ministred by men yet it is no other than the very Word of God and as such to be received 1 Thess. 2.13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing because when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us ye received it not as the word of men but as it is in truth the word of God c. Q. 2. Whence is the efficacy of this Word A. It is wholly from the Spirit of God that it becomes effectual to any mans Salvation 1 Cor. 3 6 7. I have planted and Apollo watered but God gave the increase So then neither is he that planteth any thing neither he that watereth but God that giveth the increase Q. 3. Is the reading of the Scripture an Ordinance of God for mens Salvation A. Yes it is Deut. 17.19 And it shall be with him and he shall read therein all the dayes of his life that he may learn to fear the Lord his God to keep all the words of this law and these statutes to do them And in reading of it God sometimes comes in by his Spirit to mens conversion Acts 8.27 28 29. And he arose and went and behold a man of Ethiopia an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians who had the charge of all her treasure and had come to Ierusalem for to worship was returning and sitting in his chariot read Isaias the prophet Then the spirit said to Philip go near and joyn thy self to his chariot c. Q. 4. Is the hearing of the Word a means of Salvation A. Yes it is Isa. 55.3 Incline your ear and come unto me hear and your soul shall live c. 1 Cor. 1.21 It pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe Q. 5. To what end is the Word useful to men A. The first end and use of the Word is to convince men of their sin and misery out of Christ 1 Cor 14.24 25. But if all prophesie and there come in one that believeth not or one unlearned he is convinced of all he is judged of all And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest c. Q. 6. What is it useful for besides conviction A. 'T is useful for conversion as well as conviction Psal. 19.7 The law of the Lord is perfect converting the soul c. Acts 26.18 To turn them from darkness to light and from the power of Satan unto God c Q. 7. Doth the Word convince and convert all that hear it A. No but those only that are ordained to Eternal Life Acts 13.48 As many as were ordained to eternal life believed Q. 8. What else is the Word useful for A. To build up the Saints to perfection in Christ Eph. 4.11 12 13. And he gave some apostles and some prophets and some evangelists and some pastours and teachers for the perfecting of the saints for the work of the ministry for the edifying of the body of Christ Till we all come in the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the son of God unto a perfect man unto the measure of the stature of the fulness in Christ. Acts 20.32 And now brethren I commend you to God and to the word of his grace which is able to build you up and give you an inheritance among all them that are sanctified Q. 9. May the common people read the Scriptures A. Yes 't is a duty commanded by Christ Ioh. 5.39 Search the scriptures c. and commended by the Apostle 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 dayly whether those things were so Q. 10. Is it their duty or liberty also to preach it A. No it is not for besides abilities for that work there must be a call Rom. 10.14 15. How shall they hear without a preacher and how shall they preach except they be sent c. Q. 11. What 's the first Instruction from hence A. That the enjoyments of the Scripture and an able faithful Ministry to expound and apply them is a special Mercy to any people Psal. 147.19 20. He sheweth his word unto Iacob his statutes and judgments unto Israel he hath not dealt so with any nation and as for his judgments they have not knows them Q. 12. What 's the second Instruction A. That men cannot expect Special and Spiritual Blessings from God in the wilful neglect of the Ordinances Prov. 28.9 He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law even his prayer shall be abomination Q. 13. What 's the third Inference A. That sad is their condition who sit all their dayes under the Word to no purpose at all 2 Cor. 4.3 4. If our gospel be hid it is hid to them that are lost In whom the God of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ who is the image of God should shine into them Q. 14. What 's the last Inference A. That Christs Ordinances and Ministers should be most welcome to the people to whom God sends them Isa. 52.7 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings that publisheth peace that publisheth salvation that saith unto Zion thy God reigneth Of the manner of Hearing Quest. 90. HOw is the Word to be read and heard that it may become effectual to Salvation A. That the Word may become effectual to Salvation we must attend thereunto with Diligence Preparation and Prayer receive it with Faith and Love lay it up in our Hearts and practise it in our Lives Q. 1. If the matter we read or hear be good is not that enough for our salvation A. No God requires that the Word be read and heard in a due manner and the manner of hearing is of special regard with God Luke 8.18 Take â—eed therefore how ye hear c. Q. 2. How many things belong to the due manner of hearing A. Three sorts of Duties belong to it some antecedent as preparation
and prayer some concomitant as due diligence and retention and some subsequent as practise Q. 3. What is due preparation â—or hearing A. It consists in serious consideration of the greatness and holiness of that God whom we approach in hearing the Word Acts 10.33 Now therefore we are all here present before God to hear all things that are commanded thee of God And awing the heart even to a degree of holy trembling thereby Isa. 66.2 To him will I look even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit and trembleth at my word Q. 4. What 's the principal consideration thus to awe the heart A. The Word is in its own nature an heart-searching Word Heb. 4.12 For the word of God is quick and powerful and sharper than any two-edged sword piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit and of the joynts and marrow and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart And that eventually 't will be the savour of Life or Death to us 2 Cor. 2.16 To the one we are the savour of death unto death and to the other the savour of life unto life c. Q. 5. What else belongs to due preparation to hear A. The discharging of the heart from worldly cares Matth. 13.7 And some fell among thorns and the thorns sprang up and choaked them And carnal lusts Iam. 1.21 Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness and receive with meekness the engraffed word which is able to save your souls Q. 6. What 's the third act of due preparation A. Longing after the Word for further communications of Grace by it 1 Pet. 2.2 As new born babes desire the sincere milk of the word that ye may grow thereby Isa. 2.3 And many people shall go and say come ye and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord to the house of the God of Iacob and he will teach us of his wayes and we will walk in his paths for out of Zion shall go forth the law and the word of the Lord from Ierusalem Q. 7. What 's the second antecedent duty of hearing A. Prayer is an antecedent duty to hearing the Word and that both for the assistance of the Minister 2 Thess. 3.1 Finally brethren pray for us that the word of the Lord may have free course and be glorified even as it is with you And our own illumination Psal. 119.18 Open thou mine eyes that I may behold wondrous things out of thy law Q. 8. What else should we pray for A. That God would pour out his Spirit with the Word according to that promise Prov. 1.23 I will pour out my spirit unto you I will make known my words unto you Q. 9. Doth unpreparedness for the Word alwayes hinder its efficacy on the heart A. No God sometimes is found of them that sought him not Isa. 65.1 I was found of them that sought me not c. But it is a sin to neglect it and needs a pardon of God Q. 10. What 's the first motive to prepare for solemn duties A. That it argues the sincerity of the heart and in that case God will be merciful to infirmities 2 Chron. 30.18 19. For a multitude of the people even a multitude of Ephraim and Manasseth Issachar and Zebuluâ— had not cleansed themselves yet did eat the passover but not as it is written Wherefore Hezekiah prayed for them saying the good Lord be merciful towards him that prepareth his whole heart to seek the Lord God the God of his fathers though he be not cleansed according to the purification of the sanctuary Q. 11. What 's the second motive A. 'T is a sweet sign that God will make that duty successful for which the heart is prepared Psal. 10.17 Thou preparest their heart thou bendest thine ear to them Q. 12. What 's the third motive to preparation A. The majesty and jealousie of God to whom we approach obliges us to solemn preparation Heb. 12.28 29. Whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear for our God is a consuming fire Q. 13. But must a man neglect the duty if his heart be not duly prepared for it A. No for that would be to add a new sin to a former and aggravate it the more Q. 14. In what manner must the prepared heart go to the word A. Not in dependance on its own preparations but upon the Spirits assistance Psal. 71.16 I will go forward in the strength of the Lord God c. Q. 15. What 's the first act of Faith due to the Word A. The assenting act of Faith is required to the Word read or preached whereby we acknowledge it to be of Divine Authority 2 Tim. 3.16 And without controversie great is the mistery of godliness God was manifest in the flesh justified in the spirit seen of angels preached unto the Gentiles believed on in the world received up into glory 2 Pet. 1.21 For the prophesie came not in old time by the will of man but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost Q. 16. What 's the second act of Faith required of us A. An applying act of Faith is also required of us Rom. 15.4 For whatsoever things were written afore-time were written for our learning that we through patience and comâ—ort of the scriptures might have hope Q. 17. What 's the first end in applying the Word A. It is first to be applyed to our conviction both of sin and misery Acts 2.37 Now when they heard this they were pricked in their heart and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles men and brethren what shall we do Q. 18. What 's the second end or use of applying it A. It must be applyed for our guidance and direction to Christ Iohn 6.4 5. Every man therefore that hath heard and hath learned of the father cometh unto me Q. 19. What 's the third use to which it must be applyed A. We must apply it for our direction through the whole course of Christian Duties 2 Pet. 1.19 We have also a more sure word of prophesie whereunto ye do well that ye take heed as unto a light that shineth in a dark place until the day dawn and the day star arise in your hearts Q. 20. What other use must we apply it to A. It must be applyed for our comfort in all inward and outward troubles Rom. 15.4 For whatsoever things were written afore time were written for our learning that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope Q. 21. On what account are we to receive it with love A. We are to love it for its Authors sake because it 's the Word of God Psalm 119.159 Consider how I love thy precepts c. Q. 22. What 's the second motive of love to the Word A. The holiness and purity of it deserves and engages our love to it Psal. 119.140 Thy word is very pure therefore thy
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
world might have a sure known standing Rule to try and judge all things by and not to be left to the uncertainty of Traditions Iohn 5.39 Search the Scriptures for in them ye think ye have Eternal Life and they are they which testify of me Q. 7. Doth not the Authority of the Scriptures depend on the Church Fathers and Councils A. No the Scriptures are not built on the Authority of the Church but the Church on them Ephes 2.19 20. And are built on the Foundations of the Apostles and Prophets Iesus Christ himself being the chief Corner Stone And for Councils and Fathers the Scriptures are not to be tried by them but they by the Scriptures Isa. 8.20 To the Law and to the Testimony if they speak not according to this word 't is because there is no light in them Q. 8. VVhat may be fairly inferr'd from this Proposition That the Scriptures are the word of God A. Three things may be thence inferr'd First The perfection of the Scriptures which being the only rule given by God must therefore be perfect Secondly That it is the right of common People to read them Iohn 5.39 Search the Scriptures Acts 17.11 These were more noble than those of Thessalonica in that they received the word with all readiness of mind and search the Scriptures daily whether those things were so Thirdly That we owe no obedience to the Injunctions of men farther than they are sufficiently warranted by the written Word Mat. 15.9 But in vain do they worship me teaching for Doctrines the Commandments of Men. Of Faith and Obedience Quest. 3 VVHat do the Scriptures principally teach A. The Scriptures principally teach what Man is to believe concerning God and what duty God requires of Man Q. 1. VVhy is Faith conjoyned with Obedience and put before it A. Because Faith is the principle from whence all Obedience flows and no man can perform any duty aright in the estate of unbelief Heb. 11.6 But without Faith it is impossible to please him for he that cometh to God must believe that he is Q. 2. Can there be no saving Faith where the Scriptures are not known and preached A. No for the Apostle saith Rom. 10.14 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 And v. 17. So then Faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the VVord of God Q. 3. Are not we bound to believe what Learned men teach us as Points of Faith though the things â—hey teach be not contained in the VVord of God A. No if the things they teach be not contained expresly or by necessary consequence in the Word of God we are not obliged to believe them as points of Faith 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 Gal. 1.8 Though we or an Angel from Heaven preach any other Gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you let him be accursed And Christ hath charged us Mat. 23.10 To call no man Master for one is your Master even Christ. Q. 4. Are there some things in Scripture more excellent than others Because it 's said the Scriptures principally teach matters of Faith and Duty A. Every part of Scripture is alike pure Prov. 30.5 Every word of God is pure and of equal authority but not of equal weight as several pieces of Gold are alike pure and of the same stamp but not of equal value Q. 5. What may be inferred hence for Use A. First Hence 't is our duty to examine what we hear by the Word and not receive any Doctrine because men confidently affirm it but because the Scriptures require it Acts 17.11 These were more noble than those of Thessalonica in that they received the Word with all readiness of mind and searched the Scriptures daily whether these things were so Secondly That Christian Religion is not notional but practical and that impractical Faith saves no man Iam. 2.20 Faith without Works is dead God is a Spirit Quest. 4. WHat is God A. God is a Spirit Infinite Eternal and Unchangeable in his Being Wisdom Power Holiness Iuâ—tice Goodness and Truth Q. 1. Can the Nature of God be defined so as men may express properly and strictly what God is A No Iob 11.7 Canst thou by searching find out God canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection We do then conceive most rightly of God when we acknowledge him to be unconceiveable and therefore one being ask'd the question what God is answered rightly If I fully knew that I should be a God my self for God only knows his own Essence Q. 2. How many ways are there by which men may know and describe the Nature of God tho still with imperfect Knowledge A. There are two ways of knowing God in this Life First By way of affirmation affirming that of God by way of eminence which is excellent in the Creature as when we affirm him to be Wise Good Merciful c. Secondly By way of Negation when we remove from God in our Conceptions all that is imperfect in the Creature so we say God is Immense Infinite Immutable and in this sense we also call him a Spirit i. e. he is not a gross corporeal Substance Q. 3. How many sorts of Spirits are there And of which sort is God A. There be two sorts of Spirits created and finite as Angels and the Souls of Men are Secondly Uncreated and Infinite and such a Spirit God only is infinitely above all other Spirits Q. 4. If God be a Spirit in what sense are we to understand all those Scriptures which speak of the Eyes of the Lord the Ears and Hand of God A. We are to understand them as Expressions of God in condescention to the weakness of our understandings even as the Glory of Heaven is exprest to us in Scripture by a City and the Royal Feast These shadows are useful to us whilst we are in the Body but we shall know him in Heaven after a more perfect manner Q 5. What may be inferr'd from the Spiritual Nature of God A. Hence learn that it is both sinful and dangerous to frame an Image or Picture of God Who can make an Image of his Soul which yet is not so perfect a Spirit as God is And as it is sinful to attempt it so it is impossible to do it Deut. 4.15 16. Take ye therefore good heed unto your selves for ye saw no manner of Similitude on the day that the Lord spoke to you in Horeb out of the â—â—ast of the Fire lest ye corrupt your selves and make you a graven Image the similitude of any figure c. Q. 6. What else may be inferr'd from thence A. That our Souls are the most noble and excellent part of
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
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.
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
and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming But assumes Power to dispence with God's Laws to others Q. 8. What is the second Inference hence A. That man dieth not as Beasts die which are under no Moral Law and therefore capable of no sin but must come to Judgment after Death Eccles. 3.21 Who knoweth the spirit of man that goeth upward and the spirit of the beast that goeth downward to the earth Heb. 9.27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die but after this the Iudgment Q. 9. What is the third Inference hence A. That though the actions of men naturally considered are transcient yet their consequences and effects are permanent An act is soon done a word soon spoken a thought soon thought but when done spoken or thought they are placed to account Gal. 6.7 8. Be not deceived God is not mocked for whatsoever a man soweth that shall be also reap for he that soweth to the flesh shall of the flesh reaâ— corruption but he that soweth to the spirit shall of the spirit reap life everlasting Q. 10. What is the fourth Inference from hence A. That God will proceed with man by different rules in the Day of Judgment according to the different Law they lived under in this World Rom. 2.12 For as many as have sinned without law shall also perish without law and as many as have sinned in the law shall be judged by the law Q. 11. What is the fifth Inference from hence A. That those who have sinned against the clearest Light and best Helps will if they die impenitent be judged to the greatest Misery Matt. 11.23 And thou Capernaum which art exalted unto heaven shalt be brought down to hell for if the mighey works which have been done in thee had been done in Sodom it would have remained until this day Heb. 2.3 How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation Q. 12. What is the sixth Inference from hence A. That as we are to prize the Moral Law highly as a Rule of Life Psal. 119.105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path So are we to bless God for the Gospel-Dispensation by which only we can attain to Justification and Salvation Heb. 12.22 But we are come to Mount Sion and unto the City of the living God the heavenly Ierusalem to an innumerable company of Angels Of Love to God and Men. Quest. 42. WHAT is the sum of the Ten Commandments A. The sum of the Ten Commandments is to love the Lord our God with all our hearts with all our soul with all our strength and with all our mind and our Neighbour as our selves Q. 1. What is the sum of the Ten Commandments A. To love the Lord our God with a Supream love and Men with a Sincere love in and for him Matt. 22.37 38. Iesus said unto him Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul and with all thy mind This is the First and Great Commandment The Second is like unto it Thou shalt love thy Neighbour as thy self Q. 2. What is the first thing contained in our supream Love to God A. It implies the loving of God purely and absolutely for himself The Excellencies that are in him Cant. 1.3 Thy name is as ointment poured forth therefore the virgins love thee And the benefits we receive from him Psal 116.1 I love the Lord because he hath heard my voice and my supplication Q. 3. What is the Second Property of this Supream Love A Supream love devotes the whole man to God and Christ So that in life and death that man designs the Glory of God as his main end Rom. 14.7 8. For none of us liveth to himself and no man dieth to himself for whether we live we live unto the Lord and whether we die we die unto the Lord whether we live therefore or die we are the Lord 's Q. 4. What is the third Property of Supream Love A. It causes the Soul to depreciate and slight all other things in comparison of God's Glory and an Interest in Christ. Acts 20.24 But none of these things move me neither count I my life dear unto my self so that I may finish my course with joy Phil. 3.8 9. I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Iesus my Lord. Q. 5. What is the fourth Property of Supream Love A. It centers the Soul in God as its only rest Psal. 116.7 Return unto thy rest O my soul. And cannot be satisfied till it come to the full enjoyment of him 2 Thes. 3.5 The Lord direct your hearts into the love of God and patient waiting for Christ. Q. 6. Why must we love God with a supream Love A. Because such a love only suits the transcendent Excellency of God Commands all we are and have for God and is the only love that will continue to the end Rom. 8.35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ Q. 7. What is it to love our Neighbour as our selves A. It is the exact Observation and Practice of the golden Rule of Christ. Matt. 7.12 Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you do ye even so to them for this is the law and the prophets Q. 8. Are all men to be loved alike and with the same degree of Love A. No tho we must love all men with the love of Benevolence yet the Saints only with the love of Complacency Psal. 16.3 But to the saints that are in the earth and to the excellent in whom is all my delight And to such we must especially do good Gal. 6.10 As we have therefore opportunity let us do good unto all men especially unto them who are of the houshold of faith Q. 9. What is the first Instruction from hence A. Hence we learn the excellency of Divine love Moses expresses the Whole Duty of Man in Ten Commandments Christ hangs the Whole Law upon these Two Love to God and our Neighbour Mark 12.30 31. Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart and with all thy soul and with all thy mind and with all thy strength This is the first Commandment And the Second is like namely this Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thy self there is none other Commandment greater than these And the Apostle reduces these Two into One Gal. 5.14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word â—uen in this Thou shalt love thy Neighbour as thy self Q. 10. What is the second Inference from hence A. It convinces the holiest of men how far short they come in their Obedience to the rule of duty and therein the law is our School-master to bring us to Christ. Gal. 3.24 Q. 11. What is the third Inference from hence A. It discovers the excellency and perfection of the Law of God Psal. 19.7 The law of the Lord is pefect converting the soul. And that we are highly to honour