coessentiall and coequall to wit the Father the Sonne and the holy Ghost Q. What is the Father A. The first person in the Trinitie c Ioh. 5.26 hauing foundation of personall subsistence from none other Q. What is the Sonne A. The second person d Ioh. 5.26 hauing foundation of personall subsistence from the Father e Psal 2.7 Pro. 8.22 c of whom he is eternally begotten Q. What is the holy Ghost A The third person hauing foundation of personall subsistence from the Father and the Sonne f Ioh. 14.26 15.26 from both whom he eternally proceedeth Q How may the distinction of these persons he conceiued A. 1 In relation and order of subsistence betwixt themselues as hath beene shewed 2 In order and manner of working in the creatures wherein 1 The a Ioh. 5.17 19 original of the action is ascribed to the Father 2 The b Ioh. 1.3 Heb. 1.2 wisedome and manner of working to the Sonne 3 The c Gen. 1.2 1. Cor. 12.11 efficacie of operation to the holy Ghost In a word God the Father in the Sonne by the holy Ghost worketh all things SECT III. Of the doctrine of the Scriptures touching the workes of God and first touching his eternall decree Q. VVHat are wee taught in Scripture concerning the workes of God A. That God d Psal 135.6 Eph. 1.11 as from eternitie he decreed so in time and euerlastingly hee accomplisheth all things vnto the full execution of that his decree Q. How may we take a view of the workes of God A. 1 Generally in all his creatures 2 Specially in the chiefe of his creatures Viz. Angels and Men. Q. What is the decree of God concerning all creatures A. It is his eternall and vnchangeable counsell and purpose a Prou 6.4 Rom. 11.36 fore-ordaining all things vnto his own glory Q. What is the decree of God touching Angels and men A. It is his free appointment b 1. Thes 5.9 fore-ordaining them to a certaine and euerlasting estate for his owne glory Q. What is that euerlasting estate A. It is two fold according to the c Ibid. parts of this his decree which are 1. Election that is d 1. Tim. 5.21 appointment of some Angels and men vnto e Rom. 9.23 euerlasting glorie and blessednesse for the a Ephes 1.6 praise of his goodnes 2 Reprobation that is b Mat. 25.41 Rom 9.21 2. Tim. 2.20 appointment of some Angels and men vnto euerlasting dishonour for the glorie of his iustice SECT IIII. Of the execution of Gods decree and first of Creation Q. HOw doth God execute this his decree A. By 2. actions viz. Creation and Prouidence Q. What is Creation A. The c Gen. 1. Heb. 11.3 making of all things of nothing very good in the first sixe daies of the world Q. How did God create Angels A. He made them all at the first d Col. 1.16 very good and glorious spirits yet e Iob 4.18 mutable Q. When did God create man A. In the f Gen. 1.25 sixt last day of creation Q. How and whereof did God make man A. 1 Hee formed his a Gen. 2.7 bodie of the dust of the earth 2 He b Ibid. breathed in his face the breath of life so making him a liuing soule Q. How many of mankinde did God create at the first A. 1 Onely c Gen â— 7 one man Adam 2 Out of him and for him d Oc. 2.5 â—â— Mal. 2.15 one woman Eue so made he them Male and Female SECT V. Of Prouidence sustaining disposing and employing all creatures especially Angels Q. THus farre of Creation what is Prouidence A. The continual care which God exerciseth vpon his creatures once made e Psal 119.91 for the sustaining and disposing of them Q. How doth God sustaine all creatures A. He vpholdeth them all in their being a Heb. 1.3 by his mighty word and that Partly by the continuation of particulars either for the whole time of this world as b 2. Pet. 3.4 heauen and heauenly bodies earth and other elements c. or for the time of life allotted as all c Psal 36.6 104.27 c liuing creatures Partly by propagation of kinde wherby d Gen. 7.3 8.21 22 creatures euen of shortest continuance doo successiuely abide vnto the end of the world Q. How are Angels vpheld in their being A. They are all sustained by the power of God so that they shall e Luk. 20.36 neuer dye or returne to nothing Q. How are men vpheld A. Two waies and first as all other bodily creatures partly by maintenance of f Act 17.28 Psal 36.6 1 Tim. 4 10 euery mans life here on earth for the time allotted by God himselfe partly by g Gen. 1.28 Eccl. 1.4 propagation of kinde vnto the end of the world through the blessing of procreation Q. How secondly A. As Angels after a sort God so prouiding that when the a Eccl. 12.7 bodie of man returneth to the earth from whence it was taken yet the soule perisheth not but returneth to God that gaue it yea that the b Iob. 19 26 27. same body also and euery part thereof is preserued in the graue and shall bee ioyned entire to the soule at the last day so to continue for euer as shall be shewed Q. How doth God dispose of his creatures A. He guideth and employeth them to those seuerall ends and vses whereby they may best c Psal 119 91 serue vnto his glorie and the good of themselues and of their follow creatures d Psal 8. especially of man Q. How doth God dispose of Angels A. Two wayes the first respecting their euerlasting condition the second their emploiment Q. How did God dispose of Angels in regard of their euerlasting condition A. Diuersly according to the parts of his fore-mentioned decree for first he suffered the Reprobate Angels a 2. Pet. 2 4 voluntarily and maliciously without any temptation to fall into that impardonable sinne of b Jude 6. Apostasio and so into damnation irrecouerably who are called Diuels reserued in euerlasting chaines vnder darknesse vnto the Iudgement of the great day Q. How did God dispose of elect Angels A. He confirmed them in their well-being that they might c Mat. 18.10 neuer fall by sinne from their first blessed estate which are called d 2. Cor. 11.19 Angels of light e Iob 1.6 sonnes of God f Luk. 2.13 heauenly souldiours c. Q. How doth God employ Angels A. He vseth them all g Iob. 1.6 both good and euill Angels as his seruants and ministers for the accomplishment of his will and worke Q. How are good Angels employed A. 1. To be as a h Heb. 1.14 Psal 34.7 â—1 11 guard and garrison vnto the Elect of mankinde for their comfort and protection 2. To i 2. Kin. 19.35 resist and punish the
That b Ro. 11.3 6. Pro. 16 4. all things should serue vnto his glorie Q. What did God decree touching Angels and men A. c 1. Tim. 5. â—1 Mat 25.41 1. Thes 5.9 Ro. 9.22 23 That they should remaine for euer some in honour others in dishonour for his glorie SECT IIII. Of Creation Q. HOw doth God execute his decree A. By two Actions to wit Creation and Prouidence Q. What is Creation A. The a Gen. 1. wholâ— making of all things of nothing very good in the first sixe dayes of the world Q. How did God create Angels A. He b Col. 1.16 made them all at the first very good and glorious spirits yet c Job 4.18 mutable Q. How did God create man A. He d Gen. 29 made him a liuing soule framing his bodie of the dust of the earth and breathing in his face the breath of life SECT V. Of Prouidence Q. VVHat is prouidence A. The continuall * Ps 213.6 care that God hath of all his creatures for the sustaining and disposing of them as they may best a Psal 119.91 serue for his glorie Q. How doth God sustaine Angels A. They are all vpheld by the power of God so that they shall b Luk. 20.36 neuer llye nor returne to nothing Q. How doth God sustaine men A. He preserueth mankinde in generall by the blessing of c Gen. 1.28 procreation and particular men and women both for the d Psal 36.6 time of this life and for e Mat. 25.46 euer in the world to come Q. How doth God dispose of Angels A. Hee suffered f 2. Pet. 2.4 some to fall by sinne into damnation without recouerie called Diuels the rest hee g Mat. 28.20 confâ—rmeth in their first blessed estate called Angels of light both which hee h â—ob 1.6 employeth for the accomplishing of his will SECT VI. Of the state of Innocencie Q. HOw doth GOD dispose of man A. As of that creature in a Psa 8.3 c whom aboue the rest hee intendeth to set forth his glorie wherefore the Scriptures doe plentifully declare the dealing of GOD with man both in this world and for euer hereafter Q. How doe the Scriptures set forth the dealing of God with man in this world A. In a threefold estate to wit of Innocencie of Corruption and misery and of Redemption all which make way vnto that euerlasting estate of honour or dishonour fore-appointed vnto all men Q. What is the state of Innocencie A. The holy and happy condition of mankinde created in the b Gen 1.27 image of God and placed by him in c Gen. 2.8 Paradise with abilitie to attaine to blessednesse by the Couenant of workes Q. What is the Couenant of workes A. The a Ge. 2.16 17 substance of the Law written in the hearts of our first parents promising blessednesse if they should obey and threatning death if they should transgresse SECT VII Of the Fall Q. VVHat is the state of corruption and miserie A. The fearefull condition of sinne and death wherein to God suffered all mankinde in Adam to b Ge. 3.1 c fall through the temptation of Satan by breaking the Couenant of workes SECT VIII Of Sinne. Q. VVHat is Sinne A. c 1. Ioh. 3.9 A sweruing from the Law of God making the sinner * Gen. 4.7 gâ—â—â—tie of the curse of the Law and it 〈◊〉 either originall or actuall Q. Wherein doth originall sinne consist A. In vtter b Rom. 7.18 enmitie of our whole nature vnto all that is good and c Rom. 7.14 prouenesse vnto all euill Q. What is Actuall sinne A. Euery d Rom. 5.14 particular breach of the Law of God SECT IX Of Death Q. VVHat is Death A. It is the separation e Gen. 3.19 either of the soule from the body f 2. Thes 1. â— or of soule and body from God with all euils that attend on the one or the other Q. How doth God employ men in this state of Corruption A. Two waies and first by the g Joh. 1.9 light of nature and h Esay 44.28 common graces restraining many from grosse sinnes and guiding some vnto actions profitable for humane societie and for the outward seruice of God Q. How secondly A. By ouer-ruling mens euill and sinfull actions so that thereby they a Act. 4.27 28. bring to passe nothing but what God hath determined for his owne glorie Q. Doth God leaue all mankinde in this state of sinne and death A. No but onely the reprobate whom hee b Act. 14.16 suffereth to runne on in sinne and so vnto damnation deseruedly SECT X. Of Redemption by the Couenant of grace Q. WHat is the state of Redemption A. The c Ro. 3.23.24 recouerie of the Elect out of the state of sinne and death by the new Couenant of grace Q. What is the Couenant of grace A. Gods a Gal. 3.21 22 second contract with mankinde after the fall for the restoring of him vnto his fauour and happinesse by the meanes of a Mediator Q. What are wee to consider in the Couenant of Grace A. Two things whereof the first is the foundation of it to wit the Mediator SECT XI Of Christ the Mediator Q. VVHo is the Mediator betweene God and man A. Onely b 1. Tim. 1.5 Iesus Christ God and man Q. How is he God A. In that hee is the c 1. Ioh. 5.20 second person in Trinitie to wit the eternall Sonne of the Father Q. How is hee man A. By d Ioh. 1.14 taking our flesh into his person beeing miraculously e Luk. 1.35 conceiued by the holy Ghost and borne of the blessed Virgin Mary Q. How is he the mediator between God and man A. By becoming our Prophet Priest and King Q. How is he our Prophet A. By a Joh. 17.26 reuealing vnto vs the will of God Q. How is he our Priest A. By b Eph. 2 1â— 2. Cor. 5.28 appeasing and reconciling God vnto vs through his death and obedience Q. How is he our King A. By c Esa 9.7 gouerning all things for the saluation of his Elect and d Psal 45.5 destruction of his enemies SECT XII Of the mysticall vnion Q. VVHat is the second thing to be considered in the Couenant of Grace A. The application thereof to the elect giuing them a Heb. 3.24 part in Christ and in all his benefits Q. What part haue the elect in Christ A. They haue first vnion with Christ and secondly thereby Communion Q. How are the elect vnited vnto Christ A. They are b Eph. 5.30 knit vnto Christ the head as members of his mysticall bodie by the spirit of Christ and by faith Q. What is the spirit of Christ A. The power of the holy Ghost c Rom. 8.9 Gal. 5.25 abiding and working in all those that are Christs as the soule of spirituall life Q.
Christ c Mat. 1.2 3 God and man Q. What is the office of Christ A. The d 1. Tim. 2.5 Mediator-ship which being one hath yet three denominations from three seuerall functions Viz. Propheticall Priestly Kingly Q. What is his Prophetical Office A. The office of e Esay 61.1 Mat. 23.8.10 instructing his Church which hee did and doth performe two waies viz. 1. Outwardly as f Math. 23.37 1. Pet. 3.19 before his incarnation by the Prophets Priests and Scribes of the Old Testament and in the dayes of his flesh in his a Heb. 2.3 owne person as a b Rom. 15.8 Minister of the Circumcision but with the c Mat 7.29 authoritie of the Law-giuer so since vnto the worlds end d 2. Cor. 4.6 5.19 20 by his Apostles and Ministers e Ephes 4.11 called and fitted by him for that purpose 2. Inwardly by the f Luk. 24.49 Act. 16 14 ioynt operation of his holy spirit Q. What is the Priestly function of Christ A. It is that whereby hee g Heb. 5.1 5. c. appeaseth and reconcileth God to his Elect. 1. Performing for them absolute h Rom. 5.19 obedieÌ„ce to the whole law of God 2. Offering himselfe vnto his Father i 2. Cor. 5.21 a sacrifice propitiatorie for all their sinnes 3. k Heb 9.24 1. Ioh. 2.1 2 Rom. 8.34 Heb. 12.24 Appearing euer at the right hand of God to make intercession for them Q. What is the kingly office of Christ A. It is the exercise of that l Psal 110.1 power giuen him by God ouer all and m Mat. 28. â—8 Psal 2.8 c. possession of all for the n Esay 9 7. spirituall gouernement and saluation of his Elect and for the a Esay 9.7 destruction of his their enemies Q. In what state did Christ God and man performe this threefold office A. In a two-fold estate Viz. of 1. Humiliation and 2. Exaltation Q. What was his state of humiliation A. It was the b Psal 45.5 base condition of a seruant whereto hee humbled himselfe from his conception to his crosse and so vntill the time of his resurrection Q. What is his estate of Exaltation A. His c Phil. 2.7.8 glorious condition beginning at the instant of his d Phil 2.9 Heb. 2.9 resurrection and comprehending his e Act. 2.24 Ascension f Ephes 4.8 sitting at the right hand of God and g 1. Pet. 3.22 second comming in glorie to iudge the world h Ma. 15.31 SECT XII Of the Application of the Couenant of Grace and first of our vnion with the person of Christ Q. HItherto of the Foundation of the Couenant of Grace viz. the Mediator what is the Application of it A. The communicating thereof for saluation to euery one of Gods Elect giuing him a Heb 3.14 part in Christ the Mediator and all his benefits Q. What part hath euery Elect in Christ hereby A. 1. VnioÌ„ with Christs person 2. Communion Q. How are the Elect vnited to Christ his person A. They are incorporated made b Eph. 5.30 members of the mystical body whereof Christ is head which the Scripture figureth as by other resemblances so especially vnder the a Ephes 5.2 Item Cautic the whole hoâ—ke similitude of mariage Q. How may we conceiue of this our mariage with Christ A. We are to conceiue therein as in outward mariage 1. The consent of parents and parties 2. The maner of coniunction Q. What consent of parents is there in this mariage A. Only Gods donation who being the alone parent of both parties as in the b Gen. 2.22 mariage of the first Adam giueth 1. c Iohn 3 16. Iohn 17.6 Christ to vs as a Sauiour 2. d Heb. 2.13 Vs to Christ as a people to be saued Q. What consent of parties is there A. 1. Christ consenteth to take vs as his own spouse which he witnessed especially by taking e Heb. 2.14 our flesh vpon him that he might be our f Matt. 1.23 Immanuel or God with vs. 2. We being g Iohn 6.44 drawne of God and h 2. Cor. 11.2 prepared by the friends of the Bridegroome do a Cant. 7.10 consent to take Christ as our Lord and Husband as wee professe by taking his b Esay 44.5 name and c Mat. 11.29 yoke vpon vs. Q. What is the maner of this our coniunction A. Mysticall that is to say Real in respect of the things conioined our very nature body and soule being coupled to the body and soule of Christ so that we are d Ephe. 5.30 members of his body of his flesh and of his bones and therby also to the e 1. Cor. 1.30 diuine nature yet not corporall but Spirituall in regard of the means whereby this coniunction is wrought Q. What are the meanes of this spirituall coniunction A. On Christs part his holy f 1. Ioh. 4.15 Rom. 8.9 Spirit g Gal. 4.6 1. Iohn 3.24 4.13 giuen by him vnto euerie member of his body in the very moment of regeneration as the h Gal 5.25 1. Cor. 15 45. soule of spirituall life and fountaine of supernaturall grace in which respect i 1. Cor. 6.17 he that is ioyned to the Lord is said to be one spirit Q. What is the spirit of Christ A. The holy a 1 Cor. 3.16 Ghost truly residing and powerfully b Rom. 5.5 working in all those that are Christs c Rom. 8.2 deriued vnto them from him and d 1. Cor. 12.13 Eph 2.18 4.4 knitting them inseparably vnto him Q. Is the Holy Ghost giuen to none but such as are thus ioined vnto Christ A. The Holy Ghost is considered three waies 1. As the Author of all excellencie euen in common gifts of nature and reason as e Jud. 14.6 strength and courage f Exod. 31.3 Arts and Sciences g 1. Sam. 11.6 Policie and Gouernement c. In which sense he is giuen to many that neuer heard of Christ 2. As the Author of h 1. Cor. 12.1.4 spirituall gifts so called because being sanctified they are meanes of edification as the power of working miracles healing languages c. yea a i Heb. 6.4 5. taste of the heauenly gift and of the good word of God and of the powers of the world to come In which sence he is giuen to sundry reprobates that are called as hath been shewed 3. As the Author of the perpetuall effectuall and a Ioh. 6.63 vitall influence of sauing grace from Christ the head to euery true member of his body In which sence b Ioh. 14.17 the world cannot receiue or know him but he is bestowed on the c 1. Pet. 1.2 Elect only and those truly regenerated and conuerted vnto the Lord. Q. But on our parts what meanes is there of this coniunction A. Only faith which yet is d Eph.
Cor. 3.9 these of the new Testament haue great preeminence SECT XV. Of Baptisme Q. VVHat is Baptisme A. The former Sacrament of the new Testament by the a Eph 5.26 washing of water representing the powerfull b 1 Cor 6.11 Heb. 10.22 washing of the bloud and spirit of Christ and so sealing our a John 3.5 Tit. 3.5 new birth and entrance into the Couenant of grace Q. How was this Sacrament ordained and brought into the Church in the place of Circumcision A. At the b Iohn 1.33 commandement of God by the ministery first of c Matth. 3.1 Iohn therefore called the Baptist after sanctified and confirmed by our Sauiour Christ himselfe being d Matt. 3.13 baptized by Iohn and giuing e Mat. 28.18 commission to his Apostles and Ministers to continue the same in his Church vnto the end Q. What are the necessary and essentiall parts of this Sacrament A. Two viz. 1. The outward element of f Iohn 1.31 water together with the actioÌ„ of g Eph. 5.26 Act. 8.36 c. 2.41 washing that is dipping or sprinkling the party baptized h Mat. 28.19 In the name of the Father the Sonne and the holy Ghost 2. The spiritual thing signified viz. the i Heb. â— 14 bloud k 1. Cor 6.11 spirit of Christ washing away both the l Act. 2.38 guilt and m Eze. 36.25 filthinesse of sinne Q. Doth this spiritual washing alwaies accompany the outward action A. No for howsoeuer God for his part doe euer a Ezek. 24.13 offer it at the present vnto all yet doe the b 1. Pet. 1.2 Elect onely effectually partake the spirituall benefit and that c Gal. 3.27 then first when by the spirit and faith they are vnited vnto Christ from which time baptisme once receiued remaineth a d Zech. 13.1 fountain alwaies open for sinne and for vncleannesse Q. How farre forth doth Baptisme cleanse the elect from sinne A. From e 1. Cor. 6.9.10 11. 1. John 1.7 Psal 51 7. all sins as well actuall as originall as wel committed after Baptisme as before and that f Esay 1.18 perfectly in respect of the guilt although g Ioh. 13.10 Psal 51.2 imperfectly by degrees in respect of the pollution and power of sinne Q. Who are to be admitted to this Sacrament A. Whosoeuer are outwardly comprehended in the Couenant whether th y be 1. of riper yeares h Acts 8.37 coÌ„uerted to the profession of the faith or 2. i 1 Cor. 7.14 children borne of Christian parents SECT XVI Of the Lords Supper Q. VVHat is the Lords Supper A It is the other Sacrament of the new Testament wherein God by the signes of bread and wine signifieth sealeth and exhibiteth to euery faithfull receiuer the body and bloud of Christ for his spirituall nourishment and growth in Christ so confirmeth him in the Couenant of Grace Q. How was this Sacrament instituted in stead of the Passeouer A. Our Lord Iesus Christ a 1. Cor. 11.23 in the night that he was betraied b Matth. 26.26 c. immediatly after hee had eaten the Passeouer with his Disciples did both himselfe with them celebrate this holy Sacrament and withall c 1. Cor. 11.24 25 26. giue charge for continuance of the same in the Church vntill his second comming in which regard it is called the d 1. Cor. 11.20 Lords Supper Q. What are the essentiall parts of this Sacrament A. As of all other Sacraments two to wit 1. The outward signes viz. the a Mat. 26.26 27. elemeÌ„ts of bread wine together with the actions of blessing distributing taking communicating according to our Sauiours first institution 2. The spiritual b Ibid. things signified viz. the body bloud of Christ sanctified and c Ioh. 6.50 51 giuen vs by God and by faith receiued of vs for the nourishing and preseruing of our soules and bodies vnto eternall life Q. Is Christs body and bloud together with the outward elements receiued of all Communicants A. No for howsoeuer they be d Mat. 26.26 offred by God to all yet are they receiued by such alone as haue the hand of faith to lay hold on Christ As for those that come without faith they receiue e 1. Cor. 11.27 onely the outward elements and that vnto f Vers 29. condemnation Q. Who are to be partakers of this Sacrament A. All baptized who are of yeeres sound iudgement to discerne the Lords body ought to repaire to this Sacrament but those onely come worthily who professing the true faith haue duly a 1. Cor. 11.28 examined prepared theÌ„selues Q. How ought euery Christian comming to this SacrameÌ„t to examin prepare himselfe that he may come worthily A. By due search triall of himself whether he haue in him the conditions by God required in worthy Communicants viz. b 2. Cor. 13.5 1. Tim. 1.15 Faith grouÌ„ded vpoÌ„ knowledge both of Gods will in generall this holy Sacrament in particular c Heb. 10.22 Iames 48. RepentaÌ„ce of sins past atteÌ„ded with true d Zech. 12.10 lâ—ue of God of his e 1. Cor. 16.14 brethren Q. How ought euery Christian thus prepared to demeane himselfe in receiuing and after A. 1. In the present actioÌ„ with reuereÌ„ce intention thanksgiuing f 1. Cor. 11.26 coÌ„memorating the Lords death for the coÌ„fort refreshing of his soul g Rom. 12.1 ofring vp himselfe soule body as a sacrifice of thanks in which regard it is called the Eucharist 2. Afterward coÌ„tinually indeuoring to finde an h Col. 2.6 7. increase of his faith in Christ loue to God all his saints power to subdue sinne and practise obedience with all other * 2. Pet. 3.18 sauing and sanctifying graces SECT XVII Of the inward meanes of reuealing the Couenant of Grace viz. the Spirit and Faith Q. VVHat are the inward meanes whereby God reuealeth his Couenant of Grace A. They are 2. Viz. 1. The Spirit 2. Faith Q. What is here meant by the Spirit A. A speciall effect of the Spirit of Christ before-mentioned dwelling in our hearts testifying on Gods part his free loue and gracious purpose touching our saluation in a Psal 35.3 particular bearing b Rom. 8.16 witnesse with our spirits that we are in Christ his Children and hee our Father withall guiding vs to the c Psal 16.7 Ioh. 14.26 knowledge of the whole will of God reuealed in his word called therefore the d Ephes 1.17 spirit of wisedome or Reuelation Q. Doth the Spirit alwaies witnesse the loue of God vnto vs A. The witnesse of the spirit is a Rom. 5.5 Ephes 2.13.14 continuall yet it is b Psal 51.10 ver 7.8 not alwaies with like feeling and comfort apprehended because neither are our hearts alwaies alike purged humbled and enlarged to receiue it nor the
What is faith A. The first effect of the spirit of Christ d Eph. â— 16 17. disposing vs to cleaue to him and the instrument whereby all graces are begun and increased in vs. SECT XIII Of the Gospell Q. VVHat is our communion with Christ A. The participation of the benefits flowing from his seueral offices Q. What benefite receiue wee from the Propheticall office of Christ A. The a Math. 11.27 reuelation of the Couenant of grace whereby we are made b 2. Tim. 3.15 wise vnto saluation Q. What meanes doth God vse for the reuealing of this couenant A. The meanes are of two sorts Viz. outward and inward Q. What are the outward meanes A. The word and the Sacraments Q. What meane you by the word A. The c Eph. 1.13 Gospell preached which â—ontaineth and publisheth the promises of saluation by Christ SECT XIIII Of Sacraments Q. VVHat are Sacraments A. a Rom. 4.11 Seales annexed by God to the word of his Grace b Gal. 3.27 assuring our part in Christ and c Rom. 6.4 binding vs vnto him in obedience Q. What Sacraments are there of the Couenant of Grace A. They be of two sorts Viz some of the old Testament before Christ others of the new vnder Christ Q. What were those Sacraments of the old Testament A. Two Viz d Gen. 17.10 Circumcision for entrance into the Couenant and the e Exod. 22.3 c. Passeouer for continuance and confirmation therein Q. How many Sacraments are there of the new Testament A. Two likewise Viz Baptisme for entrance and the Lords Supper foâ— confirmation in the same Couenant SECT XV. Of Baptisme Q. VVHat is Baptisme A. The seale of our a Tit. 3.5 new birth and entrance into the Couenant of Grace Q. What are the parts of this Sacrament A. They are two namely first the b Eph 5. â—6 element of water with the action of dipping or sprinkling the partie baptised c Math. 28.19 In the Name of the Father the Sonne and the holy Ghost Q. What is the other part A. The d Heb. 9.14 blood and e 1. Cor. 6 2â— Spirit of Christ washing away both the f Act. 2.38 guilt and g Ezek. 36.25 Rom. â— 2.3 c. filthinesse of our sinnes Q. Who are to be baptised A. Whosoeuer belong to the Couenant whether h Act. 8.37 of riper yeares conâ—erted to the faith or i 1. Cor. 7.14 children of Christian parents SECT XVI Of the Lords Supper Q. VVHat is the Lords supper A. The seale of our a Eph. 4.26 spirituall nourishment and grouth in the bodie of Christ Q. What are the parts of this Sacrament A. Two Viz First the b Mat. 26.26 27. elements of bread and wine distributed and receiued according to Christs institution Q. What is the other part A. The * Mat. 26.26 27 28. bodie and blood of Christ giuen by God and receiued of vs by faith for the d Joh. 6.54 nourishing of our soules in spirituall life Q. Who are to receiue this Sacrament A. Such as professing the true faith of Christ haue duely e 1. Cor. 1.28 prepared themselues Q. How ought wee to prepare oâ—â— selues A. By examining and stirring vp in our selues three notable graces Q. What is the first A. Knowledge of the will of God especially touching the matter of the Sacrament a 1. Cor. 11.29 that wee be able to discerne the Lords body Q. Which is these second A. b 2. Cor. 13.5 1. Tim. 1.15 Faith to apply the promises of saluation vnto our selues in particular Q. Which is the third A. c Zech. 12.10 Jam. 4. â— Repentance of our sinnes past with true d 1. Cor. 16.14 loue of God and of our Brethren Q. How ought wee to receiue this Sacrament A. In a reuerent and thankefull e 1. Cor. 11.24 25 26. remembrance of the loue of Christ who gaue himselfe for vs with desire to f 2. Pet. 3.18 grow in faith and all holy graces SECT XVII Of the spirit and faith Q. WHat are the inward means whereby God reuealeth his Couenant of Grace A. They are 2. Viz the spirit faith Q. What is here meant by the spirit A. A speciall effect of the Spirit of Christ a Rom. 8.16 bearing witnes with our spirits that we are in Christ the children of God Q. What is here meant by faith A. That speciall act of faith whereby wee b 1. Joh. 5.10 Joh. 3.33 giue credit vnto the report of the word and spirit of Christ touching our saluation in particular SECT XVIII Of Vocation Q. VVHat is the maÌ„ner of reuealing the CouenaÌ„t of Grace A. It is our c Rom. 8.30 Vocation and Callingâ— when God by the meanes aforesaid inuiteth men to come vnto him in Christ for saluation Q. Are there not different kinds of Calling A. Yes for a Math. 22.14 many are called outwardly who are not chosen but the Elect are b Psal 65.4 effectually perswaded to â—leaâ—e vnto Christ SECT XIX Of the Church Q. To whom doth God reueale his Couenant of Grace A. c Joh. 14.22 Not to the world but to his Church called out of the world Q. What meane you by the Church A. The d Eph. 5.32 1. Cor. 1.9 whole number of Gods Elect effectually called into fellowship with Christ Q. Where is this Church of God A. Part already e Reuel 7.14 c. triumphant in heauen part as yet f Reuel 12.11 militant on earth in the seruice and warfare of the Lord Iesus Q. Who are meÌ„bers of the Church militaÌ„t A. As many as are liuing g Eph. 1.22 23. members of the mysticall bodie of Christ Q. How may we know them A. Not by the inward graces a 2. Tim. 2.19 onely knowne to God whereby they are inuisible to vs but by the markes of visible profession Q. What are the true markes of visible profession A. The outward meanes appointed by God for the calling and gathering of his Saints viz. b Mat. 28.19 20. the word preached and Sacraments duely administred Q. Are we to ioyne with all Churches that haue these markes A. c Phil. 1.18 Cant. 1.5 Yea neither must wee separate from any farther then they separate from Christ Q. What distinction is there of the particular members of a Church A. Though all be the sheepe and familie of Christ yet d 1 Cor. 12 2â— Luk. 12.42 some are set-ouer the rest to feede them with the foode of life as the Ministers and e Ps 78.71 72 others to rule and order them outwardly as the Magistrates SECT XX. Of Iustification Q. VVHat benefite receiue we from the Priestly office of Christ A. Our a Rom. 8.30 Iustification before God through his b Phil. 3.9 righteousnes imputed vnto vs and apprehended by vs. Q. What righteousnesse of Christ is imputed to vs A. c
wicked Q. How are euil Angels employed A 1. In a 2. Sam. 24.1 with 1. Chro. 21.1 Ephes 6.12 trying and exercising the godly 2. In b 1. Kin. 22.21.22 2. Cor. 4.4 seducing and c Luk. 12.20 tormenting the wicked SECT VI. Of the Prouidence of God disposing of man in this world and of the state of Innocencie Q. HOw doth God dispose of man A. As of that creature d Pro. 8.31 in whom e Psal 8.3 c. â— Cor. 9.9 10 aboue all other he intendeth to let forth the glory of his wisedome power and goodnesse and therefore the Scriptures doe most plentifully declare the dealing of God with man both in the time of this world and for euer hereafter Q. How doe the Scriptures set forth the dealing of God with man in the time of this world A. In a threefold estate viz. 1. The state of Innocencie 2. The state of corruption and miserie and 3. The state of Redemption The a Eccl. 7.31 first commonly had and lost of all mankinde both Elect and reprobate without difference b Rom 3.13 the second seizing on all men naturally but abiding without recouerie onely on the reprobate the third c 1. Pet. 3.9 Psal 130.8 proper to the Elect. All which doe make way vnto that finall and euerlasting estate of honour or dishonour fore-appointed vnto all men beginning at the ende of this life perfected at the day of Iudgement and continuing for euer in the world to come Q. What is the state of Innocencie A. The holy and happy condition of mankinde d Gen. â— 27 created by God after his owne image and e 2.8 placed by him in Paradise Q. Wherein did that Image of God chiefly consist A. In foure singular excellencies viz. 1 A a Job 10.12 reasonable immortal soule 2 True wisedome and holinesse adorning the soule b Psal 51 6 Ephes 4.24 wherein especially he resembled his maker 3. A c 1. Cor. 11.7 body endued with beautie strength and immortalitie answerable to the soule 4 d Gen. 1.28 Dominion ouer the creatures Q. What happinesse had man thus created and placed A. The image of God in wisedome and true holinesse shining in him e Mat. 5.8 without teinture or blemish he enioyed full fruition and assurance of the f Psal 17.15 fauourable and blissefull presence of this Creatour together with absolute g Gen. 2.25 contentment in himselfe and seruice from all the creatures h Ge. 2.10.20 to whom as their Lord hee gaue their originall names Q. What emploiment had man in this state A. A twofold emploiment viz. 1 Outward i Gen. 2.15 to till and dresse the Garden 2 Spirituall to k Ibid. v. 16. 17 worship serue God his Creator and procure his owne euerlasting blessednes whereto hee was fitted with freedome of will abilitie for perfect obedience vnto God according to the tenor of the couenant of workes Q. What was the tenour of the couenant of workes A. The substance of the Morall law written in the hearts of our first parents with the promises of blessednes to them if they should continue in obedience and threatnings of death and damnation if they should transgresse Q. How doth it appeare that the law was written in their hearts A 1 By the effect of it in them both who immediately after their fall were forced by the onely a Gen. 3.8 guilt of conscience not yet otherwise charged to hide themselues from Gods presence 2 By the b Gen. 4.6 Ro. 2.14.15 remainders thereof in all mankinde who euen without the law are by light of nature a law vnto themselues Q. How was the Couenant of workes sealed A. By the two sacramentall trees planted for that purpose in the middest of the garden Viz. The one a Gen. 2.9 the tree of life assuring life and glorie vpon condition of obedience The other the b ver 17. tree of knowledge of good and euill sealing death damnation in case of disobedience SECT VII Of the state of Corruption and miserie and first of the Fall of man Q. THus farre of the state of Innocencie what is the state of Corruption and miserie A. The fearefull condition whereinto in Adam c Eccl. 7.31 all mankinde fell by transgressing and violating the couenant of workes Q. What are we to consider hâ—rein A. Two things to wit 1 The causes 2 The effect of the fall of man Q. To whom doth the consideration of the causes direct vs A. To three parties differently concurring to the fall of man viz. 1. God permitting 2 Satan tempting 3 Man yeelding falling Q. How did God permit the fall of man A. Not by a Iam. 1.13 1. Ioh. 2.26 instilling into him any euill or taking from him any abilitie vnto good but 1 b 2. Sa. 24.1 with 1. Chro. 21.1 Suffering Satan to tempt him 2 c 2. Chron. 32 31. Leauing man to the libertie and mutabilitie of his owne will not hindering his fall by supply of grace Q. Why did God permit mans fall A. He did it in great wisedome to d Rom. 11.32 make way for the glorie both of his mercie in those that shall be saued by Christ and of his iustice in those that shall perish for their sinnes yet without wrong to any c Ro. 11.35 being not bound to his creature to vphold him from falling by his grace Q. How did Satan tempt man A. Being himselfe fallen in enuie of Gods glorie and mans happinesse he a Ge. 3.1 c subtilly addressed himselfe in the serpent b 2 Cor. 11.3 1. Tim. 2.14 first to the woman the weaker sexe and after by her vnto the man c Gen. 3.5 pretending greater loue and care of their wel-doing then was in God Q. Whereto did he tempt them A. To infidelitie vnthankefulnes ambition and so to slat disobedience in eating the forbidden fruit as the meanes to attaine to an higher degree of blessednesse Q. How did they yeeld to the temptation being created good A. Being left by God to the d Gen. 3.6 mutabilitie of their owne will they e Eccl. 7.31 voluntarily enclined vnto that euill whervnto they were tempted therby not onely f Gen. 4.7 loosing for themselues the image and fauour of God but withall g Rom. 3.23 depriuing their posterity of that blessed estate and h Rom. 5 12. plunging them into the contrarie Q. How could all their posteritie fall with them A. Being in their loines who were by Gods appointment to stand or fall in that triall not as singular persons onely but also as heads of mankinde a Rom. 5.19 â— Cor. 15.22 wee all tooke part with them both in this fall and in the wofull effect thereof SECT VIII Of the Consequents of the Fall and first of Sinne. Q. WHat is the effect of this fall A. That which in Scripture is called the
that they become a Psal 21.6 blessings vnto others Q. What is the fourth A. b Ps 31.20 37.19 Immunitie from outward euils as punishments of sinne which yet if as trials and chastisements God inflict vpon them they are assured to finde c Esay 27 7 mercy and mitigation in the hand correcting d 1. Cor. 10.13 2. Cor. 12.9 strength to beare what is laid vpon them the speciall prouidence of God causing all things to e Rom. 8.28 worke together for the best vnto them and finally a f 1. Cor. 10.13 Psal 149.4 glorious issue out of all troubles in due time Q. What is the fift prerogatiue A. Dignitie and praeeminence in that the faithfull haue g Gen. 9.26 27. Pro. 14.19 Psal 105 14 15. dominion and vpperhand ouer the wicked their enemies are h Mar. 6.20 Act. 5.13 honorable in the eyes and hearts of men though not ioyning with them in profession Q. What â—nsueth here vpon to make vs outwardly blessed A. i Pro. 10.22 Ioy without mixture of sorrow in prosperitie and in affliction abundant * 2 Cor. 1.5 consolation SECT XXII Of Glorification begunne in our nature viz. Sanctification Q. HOw are we made holy in our nature A. By the grace of Sanctification which is the * Tit. 3.5 renewing of our nature according to the a 2. Cor. 3.18 Ephes 4.24 image of God in righteousnesse true holinesse making vs after a sort b 2 Pet. 1.4 partakers of the godly nature Q. How farre forth and by whom is our nature in this life renewed A. This renewing is of our c 1. Thes 5.23 Rom. 12.2 whole nature spirit soule and bodie our vnderstanding being enlightened our will enfranchised and our outward man reformed but d Ioh. 13.10 not wholly in this life being the worke of e Ps 51.10 Ezek. 36.26 God not of our selues yet f Ezek. 18.31 required at our hands both to shew vs what wee ought to doe by the power of grace and to stirre vs vp to seeke by prayer and all holy endeuour to attaine vnto that supernaturall strength Q. By what meanes is this worke of God wrought in vs A. By the power and * Rom. 6.5 â— 2 Joh 15.3 Rom. 8.13 Act. 1â— 9 efficacie of the death and resurrection of Christ conueyed vnto vs by his word and Spirit which being apprehended by faith and setting faith on worke are auaileable vnto each part of our sanctification Q. What are the parts of Sanctification A. They are two according to the powerfull meanes whereby they are wrought Viz. 1. a Rom. 6.6 7. Mortification or dying vnto sinne and thereby freedome from the dominion thereof by the vertue of the death of Christ 2. b Ro. 6 4.11 Viuification or quickning vnto newnesse of life by the power of the resurrection of Christ in regard whereof it is also called our c Reu. 20.6 first resurrection Q. How doth Sanctification differ from the former grace of Iustification A. In many maine and materiall differences as 1. In the order not of time wherein they goe both a Rom. 8.30 together nor of knowledge and apprehension wherein this b 1. Cor. 6.11 latter hath precedence but of nature wherein the former is the c 2. Cor. 7.1 ground of this latter 2. In the subiect the righteousnesse whereby we are iustified being inherent in Christ for vs but this of sanctification d Rom 8.10 in our selues from him 3. In the cause our iustification being from the merite our sanctification from the e Ephes 1 19. c. 2.1 efficacie of the death and life of Christ 4. In the instrument faith which in iustification is onely as an hand receiuing in sanctification a f Act. 15.9 Gal. 5.6 co-working vertue 5. In the measure Iustification being in all beleeuers at all times alike but sanctification wrought g 2. Cor. 3.18 2. Pet. 3.18 differently and by degrees 6. In the end which beeing in both eternall life a Ro. 6.22.23 yet is the one among the causes of reigning the other only as the high way to the kingdome SECT XXIII Of the rule of Sanctification viz. the Law with the direction of the Gospell Q. VVHat is the rule square of our Sanctification A. The whole b Psal 119.9 word of God as containing that c Rom. 12.2 will of his which is d 1. Thes 4 3. c. euen our sanctification Q. What meane you by the whole word A. e Job 22.22 Ioh. 17.17 Both the Law and Gospell the old Testament and the new Q. Are wee not then deliuered from the law by the meanes of Christ A. From the f Gal. 3.10 11 12 13. burthen of the law exacting in our owne persons perfect obedience and from the curse of it due vnto disobedience wee are deliuered by Christ But from the Commandement as a a Jam. 2.8 rule of life we are not freed but contrariwise enclined and disposed by his b Psal 51.12 119 2 45 1. Ioh. 5.3 free spirit to the willing obedience thereof Thus to the regenerate the Law becometh as it were Gospel euen a c Jam. 1.25 2.12 law of libertie Q. How is the Gospell a rule of obedience being the rule of faith A. The Gospel * 1. Tim. 1.11 Eph 4.20 21 directeth the faithfull to the obedience of the Law only with difference 1. Of the manner the Law propounding God to bee worshipped of vs in himselfe as our Creator the d Ioh. 14.1 5.23 Gospel in Christ as our Sauiour 2. Of the end the Law requiring all duties as for the procurement of our owne saluation the Gospell in way of e 1. Thes 5.18 thankefulnesse for saluation in Christ alreadie bestowed 3. Of the effect the Law like Pharaoh that required bricke but allowed no strawe f Rom. 10.5 6. c. demanding obedience but vouchsafing no assistance supposing man as in the state of Creation but the Gospell both requireth and conferreth faith vnto the Elect and that not onely as a hand to lay hold on Christ but also as the chiefe vertue working by loue in all parts of obedience without which euen the Gospell is law that is a a 2. Cor. 3.6 killing letter as to the vnregenerate Q. Doth not the Gospell adde other precepts or counsels to those of the law A. Not any other in substance of action but onely reneweth enforceth b 1. Ioh. 2.7 8 those of the law and specifyeth some duties as of faith in the Messiah of the Sacraments c. which haue their generall ground from the law As for those that are propounded in forme of counsell and doe concerne things indifferent they are not c Reu. 3.18 therefore arbitrary courses of higher perfection much lesse meritorious of greater glory but as they are applied with due circumstances necessary precepts
and liues least by any meanes we dishonour him Secondly that we auoide both the company of profane persons who b Psal 73.9 set their mouth against heauen and all vnnecessarie dangers whereby c Mat. 26.69 c. diuers haue beene occasioned to deny the Lord. SECT XXVIII Of the fourth Commandement Q. VVHat are the words of the fourth Commandement A. d Exo. 20.8 c. Remember the Sabbath day to keepe it holy c. Q. What is the meaning of this Commandement A. To challenge at the hand of euery man in behalfe both of himselfe and of all that are vnder his roofe and e Nehem. 13.15 c. Jos 24.15 gouernement one day and now since the resurrection of Christ the first of the seauen in euery weeke to be set apart vnto an holy rest for Gods publique and solemne worship and that vpon a fourefold reason 1. From equitie because God alloweth vs six dayes for our affaires and reserueth but one for himselfe 2. From his owne right because this day is his and not ours 3. From his example who on the seuenth day rested from his work of Creation 4. From hope of blessing because God hath blessed and sanctified the Sabbath not onely as a day of seruice to himselfe but also as a time and a Exod 31.13 Esay 56.6 7. meanes to bestow encrease of grace vpon such as doe conscionably obserue the same Q. What are the duties required in this Commandement A. Three Viz. 1. To remember the Sabbath day that is not onely to looke back vnto the b Gen. 1.2 3 first sanction of it in Paradise before all sacrifices and ceremonies which reason among many others may perswade that it is not ceremoniall but perpetuall not to cease till it be perfectly a Heb. 4.9.10 consummated in the heauenly Sabbath but also so to beare it in minde as to liue in continuall practise of the duties wee learned the Sabbath past and b Luk. 23.54 preparation of our selues and our affaires that wee may freely and duely attend on the Lord in the Sabbath approching 2. To c Esay 58.13 make it our delight to consecrate it as glorious to the Lord performing with care and desire of profit the duties thereof in publique and priuate to wit Of d Act. 13.13 15 Psal 92 See the title pietie as hearing and reading the word communicating in the Sacraments prayer singing of Psalmes conferring meditating of the word and workes of God especially feeding our soules with the contemplation of the heauenly Sabbath c. Of e 1. Cor. 16.2 Nehe. 8.12 mercie as collections for the poore visiting the sicke comforting the sad reconciling such as are at variance and such like Wherein such as are necessarily debarred from the publique duties must with a Mat. 24.20 Psal 42.6 sorrow for such restraint vse more carefully the b Psal 63.1 2 priuate meanes 3. To c Exod. 34.21 31.13 rest from our ordinary though lawfull businesses for the space of that whole naturall day yea to allow rest to the very cattel both that we may shew d Pro. 12.10 mercy euen to the beast and to represent after a sort the euerlasting Sabbath wherein all e Ro. 8.20 21 creatures shall be deliuered from the bondage of corruption Notwithstanding such works are excluded as are presently necessarie either for the f Act. 1.12 Mat. 12.5 actions of pietie belonging to that day or for extraordinarie exigents of charitie for the g 2. Kin. 11.9 c. preseruation of the commonwealth or of our owne or others h Mat. 3.4 Mâ—t. 12.1 c life or i 1 Ver. 11. liuelihood in case of present necessitie or danger Q. What is forbidden in this commandement A. The vnhallowing or profaning of the Sabbath which is done 1. By making it a common day through common a Neh. 13.15 c. labour in our ordinarie callings b Esay 58.13 talking of our worldly affaires thinking of our owne thoughts or no other but a common vse of the creatures 2. By making it a day of carnall rest vnto idlenesse c Exod. 32.6 feasting pastimes c. Which draw our mindes farther from God then our ordinarie labours 3. By making it a day of sinne or the Diuels holiday doing that on the Lords day which is d Mar. 3.4 no day lawfull but then most e Ezek. 23.37 38 abhominable 4. By beeing f Amos 8.5 Mal. 1 1â— weary of the duties of the Sabbath thinking long till they be ended Q. What are the helpes or hinderances to the keeping of this commandement A. 1. We must adde to the forementioned duty of remembrance an ardent endeauour to tast the a Psal 42.2 3 84.1 c. sweetnes of holy exercises that so wee may come to make the Sabbath our delight 2. We must auoyd and abhorre all b Ezek. 22.26 prophane opinions either disannulling the necessitie of the Sabbath or equalling any other day to it together with such meetings and companies exercises and occasions whereby we shal be in daunger to be drawn to the vnhallowing of this day SECT XXIX Of the fift Commaundement Q. TO proceed to the second Table What are the words of the fift Commaundement A. c Exod. 20.12 Honour thy Father and thy Mother c. Q. What is the meaning and scope of this Commaundement A. That the qualitie of mens persons and places in whatsoeuer estate naturall ciuile or Ecclesiasticall with whatsoeuer relation to vs be duely acknowledged and respected and that vpon a a Eph 6.2 3. promise of the blessing of long life and b Deut. 5.16 prosperitie to such as in so doing shall shew that they regard the c Eph. 6.1 Rom. 13.1 2. image and ordinance of God Q. What is required in this Commaundement A. All due carriage of inferiours to their superiours and by consequent of superiors also to their inferiors and of equalls among themselues vnder the sweet relation betwixt parents and children or betwixt brethren of the same familie and the generall duetie of honour importing First that all inferiours as wiues children young persons subiects seruants hearers c. doe readily acknowledge and yeeld to their superiours d Leuit. 19.3 Eph. 6.5 reuerence in heart word and behauiour e Eph. 6.1 Col. 3.20 Tit. 3.1 Heb. 13.7 obedience and submission to their commaundements counsels and corrections f T it 2.10 fidelitie thankfulnesse g Rom. 13.6 7. Gal. 6.6 maintenance h 1. Tim 2.1 2 prayer to God for them with giuing of thankes i 2. Tim. 1.5 Phil. 4.9 imitation of their vertues and graces c. Secondly that all Superiours as husbands parents aged persons Magistrates Maisters Ministers c. doe answerably affoord to their inferiours a Eph. 5.23 Rom 13.4 protection and support b Mat. 7.9 10 prouision of good things for the bodie and the soule
c Eph. 6.4 education and instruction in nurture and the feare of God d Heb. 21.20 7.7 Gen. 9.25 26 27. blessing according to the power they receiue from God e Tit. 2.7 good example for their imitation c. Thirdly that equals do in the matter of honour and respect f Rom. 12.10 1. Pet. 2.17 5.5 Eph. 5.21 preferre each other before themselues Q. What is forbidden in this Commaundement A. First the omission of any of the dueties aforenamed Secondly the contrarie sins whereby either Inferiours g Iude verse 8 9 10. Pro. 30.11 despise or h Rom. 1.30 disobey their superiours or Superiours i Tit. 2.15 dishonour their places as by vnseemely carriage or abuse of their Authoritie through too much k 1. Sam. 2.23 c. lenitie or a Eph. 6.4 9 seueritie c. or finally Equals aduance themselues one b Mat. 23.6 aboue another Q. What are the helpes or hinderances of the obedience of this Commaundement First on both sides there must bee endeuour to nourish and encrease c Rom. 12.10 16. naturall affection humilitie and wisedome to discerne what is d Rom. 13.7 fitting for our owne and others places Secondly in seuerall The Inferiour must see e Rom. 13.1 2 God in the place and authoritie of his Superiour setting before his eyes the dreadfull threatnings and examples of Gods vengeance on the f Eccles 10.8 seditious and disobedient The Superior must bee the same to his Inferior that hee would haue g Eph. 6.9 Christ to bee vnto himselfe remembring the tragicall ends of Tyrants and vsurpers Contrariwise as hinderances of these dueties are to be auoyded h 2. Tim. 3.2 3 4. self-loue which maketh men vnfit either to rule or to obey partiall a Eccles 7 23 24. enquirie into the dueties of others towards vs ioyned for the most part with neglect of our owne the furie of Anabaptists with the companie of b Pro. 24 21 22. seditious persons and despisers of gouernement c. SECT XXX Of the sixt Commaundement Q. VVHat are the words of the sixt Commaundement A. c Exod. 20.13 Thou shalt not kill Q. What is the meaning of this Commaundement A. That the d Gen. 9.5 life and person of man be by man not impeached but preserued Q. What is forbidden in this Commaundement A. Whatsoeuer tendeth to the hurt of the soule or bodie whether 1. Our owne as e Pro. 6.32 8.35 Sinne especially grosse sinnes and f Rom. 2.5 Tit. 3.11 obstinacie in sinning reiecting the food of spirituall life by a Pro. 28. ◠not hearing or not b Jam. 1.22 obeying the word corrupting or peruerting it by c 2. Tim. 4.3 itching eares or d 2. Pet. 3 16. vnstable mindes c. e 1. Sam 31.4 Selfemurther * 1. Kin. 18.28 launcing or whipping our owne flesh surfets f 1. Kin. 2.23 capitall crimes vnnecessarie dangers c. 2. Or our neighbours as g Pro. 29.12 Euill example h 1 Kin. 12.28 commanding or tempting to things vnlawfull i 1 Cor 8.10 11. vnseasonable vse of Christian libertie k Amos 7.13 Esay 56.10 withholding the food of spirituall life l 1. Tim 1.4 corrupting it by erroneous or vaine and curious expositions c. The taking away of m Gen. 9.6 life otherwise then in case of publike n Ios 7.19 c. iustice iust o Deu. 20.12 13. warre or necessarie p Exod 22 2 defence al passions of q Mat 5 22. anger hatred enuie desire of reuenge vnmercifulnesse c. bitter and r Pro. 12.18 cursed speaking ſ 1. Sa. 25.17 froward churlish behauior striking or t Leu. 24.19.20 wounding cruell u Iam. 5.4 oppression withdrawing the meanes of life x Deut. 25.3 extremitie in correction and punishment c. Q. What is required in this commandement A. Whatsoeuer may preserue or cherish the soule and bodie viz. 1. Our owne as A careful a 1. Pet. 2.2 vse of the means of grace with diligēce to finish our b Phil. 2.12 saluation make our c 2. Pet. 1.10 election sure by the fruits of faith c. Sober and wholsome d 1. Tim. 5.43 dyet with helpe of Phisicke when neede is e Ioh. 18.8 preuenting vnnecessarie dangers c. Finally willingnesse to receiue the f 2 Cor. 1.9 sentence of death when God shall vtter it and resigning our g Nu. 27.16 1. Chro 28.1 c. charge in Church Common-wealth or Family into the hands of faithfull men our h Psal 31.5 soule to God in Christ with confidence of his loue i Iob. 13.15 though hee kill vs of the remission of our sinnes and our k Job 19.25 c. resurrection vnto immortalitie our bodie to the earth as a pledge in time to be resumed 2. Our neighbours as Loue of him as of our selues a Math. 5.16 good example b Heb. 10.24 counsell and encouragement vnto wel-doing seasonable c Psal 141.5 admonition d 1 Thes 4.18 consolation c. e Phil. 4.8 Iam. 3.13 Amiable behauior f Iob 29.15 c. reliefe g Pro. 24.11 12. rescue from danger if wee may h Rom. 12.15 compassion and fellow feeling of his good or euill i Matth. 5.9 peace-making and for that end k 1 Cor. 13.7 construing things in the best sence l Eph. 4.32 passing by offences yea m Gen. 13.8 9 parting sometimes with our right n Mat. 25.36 Iam. 1 27. visiting and comforting him in sicknes and affliction c. Finally decent o Gen. 23.4 buriall with moderate p Eccles 12.7 1 The. l. 4.13 mourning Q. What are the helps or hinderances to the obedience of this Commandement A. First it behoueth vs to consider that al men are made in the q Gen. 9.6 image of God and of r Act. 17 26. one bloud with vs and all Christians in the image of Christ also in whom wee are all ſ 1. Cor. 12.27 one body that God hath t Gen. 9.6 appointed the magistrate to punish u Leuit. 2.4.20 21. proportionably euerie offender in this kind yea himselfe extraordinarily bringeth x Gen. 4.9 c. Pro. 28.17 Act. 28.4 murtherers to light and punishment Secondly we must abhor the false opinion of the world placing manhood in a Gen. 4.23.24 reuenge and bloudshed the b Pro. 22.24 25. company of furious and vnmercifull men c Pro. 1.19 greedy desire of gaine c. SECT XXXI Of the seuenth Commandement Q. VVHat are the words of the seuenth Commandement A. d Exod. 20.14 Thou shalt not commit Adultery Q. What is the meaning and scope of this Commandement A. That all e 2 Cor. 7.1 1 Thess 4.3 4 5. vncleannesse and impuritie auoided chastitie by all means be
God but especially h Ier. 8.6 Psal 18.23 speciall sinnes as the Arch-Rebels 2. Humble confession of sinnes and that 1. Of necessitie vnto GOD with a Pro. 28.13 Ier. 31.18 19 shame of face and true sorrow of heart 2. Vnto men conditionally Viz. if either the Church for b 2. Cor. 2.6 satisfaction of the publique offence do enioine open acknowledgement or some c Luk. 17.4 personall wrong demaund priuate reconciliation or the weakenesse of the labouring conscience doe require the secret d Iam. 1.16 assistance of a faithfull and able Minister or Brother 3. Feruent and faithfull e Psal 51.1 2 c. prayer to God in Christ both for f Ver. 7. pardon of what is past and for supply of g Ver. 10. renewing grace for the time to come Q. Seeing many doe falsely pretend that they repent how may we know that our Repentance is true A. A true tryall of vnfained Repentance may be taken 1. From the generalitie of it Viz. if it extend to the abhorring and shunning of h Ps 119.128 139.24 all sinnes and to the loue and practise of a Psal 119.6 all duties without reseruation 2. From the through performance of each part Viz. 1. Of hatred of sinne in spirituall warfare against it and that euen vnto b Heb. 12.4 blood if neede be 2. Of the loue of righteousnesse in bringing forth c Mat. 3.8 fruits worthy of amendment of life to wit good workes SECT XXXVI Of the Spirituall warfare Q. VVHat is the Spirituall warfare A. The daily exercise of our spirituall strength and armour against all aduersaries with assured confidence of victorie Q. What is our spirituall strength A. The powerfull d Ephes 6.10 assistance of God in Christ who hath loued vs whereby wee become * Rom. 8.37 more then conquerors Q. What is our spirituall armour A. The complete furniture of sauing and sanctifying graces called therefore the a 2. Cor. 6.7 armour of righteousnesse and the b Ephes 6.11 Panoplie or whole armor of God Viz. The c Ver. 14. c girdle of veritie or sinceritie The brest-plate of Righteousnesse that is holinesse of life and good conscience The shoes of the preparation or resolution to goe through with the profession of the Gospell of peace The shield of Faith The helmet of the hope of Saluation The sword of the Spirit which is the sound knowledge and wise application of the word of God Finally continuall instant prayer in the Spirit Q. Who are our aduersaries in the spirituall conflict A. They are either our friend prouing vs or our enemies seducing and endangering vs. Q. Who is that friend of ours that for our probation entereth into conflict with vs A. God himselfe who though hee a Jam. 1.13 tempt no man vnto euill no more then hee can himselfe bee tempted yet as a Maister of defence enureth vs to the conflict by contending with vs euen in his owne person Viz. Sometimes by b Gen. 22.1 c. Probatorie commandements or c Ge. 32.24 Sensible apparitions But more ordinarily by d Iob 6.4 striking our hearts with his terrors e Psal 77.7 withdrawing the comfort of his gracious presence f 2. Chro. 32.31 leauing vs for a time to our selues that by our falles wee may acknowledge our owne weakenesse Finally g Heb. 12.5 6 Reu. 3.19 exercising vs vnder the crosse and yoake of outward afflictions Q. How must wee contend with God A. No otherwise then h Hos 12.3.4 Iacob and other holy men haue done that is by obedience humilitie patience feruent prayer vnto God who onely enableth vs to preuaile with himselfe a Gen. 32.28 giuing vs the blessing and name of Israel Q. What are those enemies of ours that seeke to seduce and endanger vs A. Whatsoeuer marcheth vnder the banner of Satan the b 2. Cor. 4.4 God and c Ephes 6.12 Prince of the darknes of this world who sometimes d 2. Cor. 12.7 Zech. 3.1 immediately assaileth vs with impious and odious suggestions but more vsually employeth his forces or attendants Q. What are the attendants of Satan A 1. The e 1. Ioh. 2.15 world which he abuseth as his storehouse and armorie of temptations that is both f Ver. 16 allurements to euil with hope of gaine pleasure or preferment and g Ioh. 16.33 discouragements from dutie with feare of losse trouble reproach c. 2. Our owne h Gal. 5.24 flesh which as a treacherous party within vs being by Satan stirred vp and inueigled with the baites of the world or discouraged with the euill intreaty thereof i 1. Pet. 2.11 fighteth on his side against our soule that is our spirituall life and welfare Q. How doe these enemies fight against our soule A. By imploying all force fraud to draw vs by sinne from the a 1. Ioh. 2.25 obedience and fauour of God vnto damnation Q. What must we doe being thus assailed A. Wee must b Eph. 6.13 14 stand fast beeing strong in the Lord and in the power of his might and taking vnto vs the whole armour of God that wee may bee able to resist in the euill day and to leade our captiuitie captiue Q. How may wee bee able to stand against the assaults of the Diuell A. 1. We must labour to c 2. Cor. 2.11 enforme our selues that we may not be ignorant of his enterprises or stratagemes 2. We must boldly d Iam. 4 7. 1. Pet. 5.9 resist that is e Eph. 4 27. giue no place or ground vnto him or admit any conference with him but rather neglect and despise his suggestions 3. Wee must take the f Ephes 6.16 shield of Faith in Christ and his assistance a Psal 16.8 setting him on our right hand who is b Esay 6 3.1 mighty to saue whereby wee may quench all the fierie darts of that wicked one 4. Wee must brandish against him the c Ephe. 6.17 sword of the Spirit that is the word of God after the example of our d Mat. 4.4 c. Sauiour keeping our selues to that onely which God reuealeth to vs and requireth of vs. Q How may we withstand temptations from the world A. By our e 1 Joh. 5.4 faith which setteth a better world euen Gods heauenly kingdome before our eyes and so enableth vs both to f Heb. 11.24 c. contemne and g Gal. 6.14 crucifie the loue of this present world and to h Heb. 11 36 37. endure manfully the threates and wrongs thereof both confessing Christ in perill and suffering i Reu. 12.11 martyrdome for his sake if wee bee thereto called Q. How may we withstand the temptations of our owne flesh A. By k 1. Pet. 4 1. setting before our eyes the patterne of the death of Christ and arming our selues with the same minde that it
God from all profane and vnholy abuse not by adding any holinesse thereto but by e Psal 96.8 acknowledging and honouring it for such whereby wee doe as it were set the crowne of holinesse honour vpon the head of God Contrariwise failing so to do we are guilty of the profanation of Gods holy name not that he can receiue any pollution from vs but onely as the man that lusteth after a chast woman is said by our f Mat 5.28 Sauiour to bee guiltie of adultery with her though shee remaine in her selfe spotlesse and vndefiled Q. What doe wee then aske of God in this Petition A. Two things Viz. 1. That he wold vouchsafe to plant encrease in vs others such graces wherby his name may be glorified as a Psal 100.3 67. â— knowledge of God b Psa 115.1 humilitie thankfulnes patience c Ps 51.15 45.1 lips opened and tongues tuned to speak of him with reuerence Finally a d Mat. 5.16 1. Pet. 2. â— Tit. 2.10 life so ordered that men may say hee is an holy God who by his grace maketh vs an holy people 2. That he would remoue root out of our hearts tongues liues all such vices by and for which his name is dishonoured as e Pro 8.13 pride profanenes f Hos 8.12 ignorance infidelity g Rom. 1.21 vnthankfulnes impatience c. those tongue-wormes of h Exod. 20.7 swearing blasphemie vnreuerent speaking of him Finally i Ro 2.23 24 euill and scandalous life for which the name of God and his religion is euill spoken of in the world SECT XLI Of the second Petition Q. VVHat are the words of the second Petition A. a Math. 6.10 Luc. 11.2 Thy Kingdome come Q. What is the meaning of these words A. First by the Kingdome of God we must vnderstand not that b Esâ— 6.5 Psa 95.3 c. vniuersall soueraignety which as Creator he exerciseth ouer all creatures disposing them all vnto their proper ends for his glorie but the c Psal 110.2 1. Cor. 15.25 spirituall regiment of the Church and of all things for the good of the Church wherein God hath appointed d Psal 2.6 Hos 3.5 Christ to be the King the e Râ—uel 15.3 saints his subiects the f Job 22.22 word his law the g Heb. 1.6 Angels and all creatures his seruants the h 2. Cor. 5.20 Ministers his Heralds and Embassadors finally the i Mat. 12.26 diuels kingdome that is wicked Angels and men k Luc. 19 27. enemies to the Kingdome of Christ his l Psal 110.1 footstoole Secondly this Kingdome is said to come 1 In regard of meanes where the a Math 12.28 13 19. Mat. 1.15 word of the Kingdome is published 2 In regard of efficacy where b Rom. 6.17 from the heart obedience is yeelded 3 In regard of perfection it hath these degrees Viz. c Math. 13.8 Encrease of grace in the time of this life The d Luc. 23.42 43. translation of blessed soules into heauen in the moment of death Finally the e Mat. 25.34 full redemption and glorification of the Saints in soule and body in the life to come Q. What things doe wee then craue of God in this petition A. Six things viz. 1 That Satans f Act. 26.18 Kingdome may be abolished the g 2. Tim. 2.26 Coloss 1.13 bonds of spirituall captiuity loosed the h Gal. 5.24 power of corruption that maketh vs like well of our bondage abated the i 2. Thess 2.8 instruments of Satans tyranny as the Turke and Pope and all such outlawes from Christ defeated 2. That the word of the Kingdome the rod and a 〈◊〉 110.2 〈…〉 â—2 Thesâ— 3.1 standard of Christs power may haue * 2. Thess 3.1 free passage euery where and bee gloriously lifted vp aduanced 3. That the eies of all men especially Princes may be opened to see the * Reu. l. 17. â— 1â— filthines of the whore of Babilon and the true * 〈◊〉 â—0 5 beauty of the pure religion spouse of Christ 4. That all * Esa 56.10 â—â— loiterers and tongue-tied Ministers remoued * M th 9.38 faithfull and able watchmen may be set ouer the flocke of Christ with sufficient encouragement of maintenance countenance protection c. 5. That the Lord by his word and spirit would g Col. 3.15 1â— rule in the hearts and liues of his Saints making them also Kings in part by ouercomming the corruption which is in the world through lust 6. That he would finish the kingdome of grace a Gen. 9.27 calling his elect vncalled b 2. Thess 2.17 confirming such as stand c Iam. 5.15 16. raising the fallen d Esa 61.3 comforting the afflicted c. and hasten the kingdome of glory both by e Phil. 1.23 taking vs in due time out of this conflicting life into peace with Christ and finally sending his Sonne the f Reuel 22.20 second time for the full saluation of vs and all his chosen that hee hauing reigned in vs by grace we may euerlastingly g 2. Tim. 2.12 reigne with him in glory SECT XLII Of the third Petition Q. VVHat are the words of the third petition A. h Mat. 6.10 Luc. 11.2 Thy will be done on earth as it is in heauen Q. What is the meaning of these words A. First by this word thy wee exclude all wils opposed to or diuers from the will of God whether the will of a 2. Tim. 2.26 Satan or our b 1. Pet 4.2 owne naturally corrupt and enthralled to Satan yea whatsoeuer c 2. Sam 7.2 c. Iam. 4 15. lawfull intentions or desires repugnant to the will of God Secondly by the wil of God we here vnderstand not so much d Deut. 29.29 that part which he keepeth secret from vs as his eternal counsell the e Pro. 27.1 euents of outward things f Act. 1.7 times and seasons c. which it is vnlawfull to enquire into impossible to know or to withstand and g Act. 4 28. no thanke for vs to accomplish vnto which we must onely with patience and contentment h Act. 21.14 submit our selues as that part thereof which is i Deut. 29.29 reueiled and made knowne vnto vs in the word both in the promises which we are to beleeue and in the precepts which as conditions of obedience in way of thanksgiuing annexed vnto the promises we are to performe Thirdly by doing wee vnderstand not a good intent only in the heart or a a Mat. 21.30 profession of obedience in word and pretence but an actuall and through b Jam. 1.25 performance of what is required of vs. Fourthly where we say in earth as in heauen we propound to our selues the patternes of the c Psal 103.20 22 Angels and blessed soules who being
according to his gracious promise who also in Christ will b Mat. 10 42. 25.35 2. Tim. 1.18 acknowledge and requite it at the last day 2. To c Jam. 1.27 seale the truth of our religion 3. To d Heb. 6.9 10 1. Joh. 3.14 1. Tim. 6.19 assure our saluation 4. To e Dan. 4.24 Luk. 19.8 make amends to men for former couetousnes and crueltie 5. To f Luk. 11.41 sanctifie our store and bring a g Deu. 25.10 blessing on our labours yea and vpon our h Psal 112.2 37.26 2. Tim. 1 1â— posteritie after vs. SECT XLIX Of the Prouidence of God concerning mankinde after this life and first of particular Judgement at the houre of Death Q. THus farre of Glorification begunne and of Redemption so farre as it is vouchsafed in this life now let vs come to entreat of perfect Redemption and Glorification and that vnder the prouidence or dealing of God with mankinde after this life How doth God then deale with men A. He bringeth them all to Iudgement Q. What is here meant by Iudgement A. The pronouncing and executing of the irreuocable sentence of Absolution or Condemnation which is done Partly on euery man in a Heb. 9.27 particular at the houre of death but Fully and b Act. 17.51 generally vpon all men at the second comming of Christ Q. Must all men then dye A. Yea c Psal 49.10 Eccles 2.16 all both good and bad saue that vnto some namely such as shall bee found aliue at the comming of Christ a change shall bee in stead of Death as shall be shewed Q. Death beeing the punishment of sinne how commeth it to passe that the righteous dye to whom all sinnes are forgiuen A. d Rom. 5.12 Death indeed came on all mankinde by reason of sinne but yet it is not in all things the same to the godly and to the wicked for howsoeuer vnto both it be the a 1. Cor. 15.26 Psal 90.3 enemie of nature as the end of naturall life yet 1. Vnto the godly it is a token of Gods b Ps 37.37 38 loue vnto the wicked of his c Job 18.13 14. anger 2. Vnto the godly it is a d Apoc. 14.13 rest from labour and miserie che e 1 Cor. 15.16 last enemie being now destroyed vnto the wicked it is the f Luk. 12 20 height of all worldly euils 3. Vnto the godly it is the g Rom 6.7 vtter abolishing of sinne and perfection of mortification vnto the wicked it is the conquest of sinne and accomplishment of their spirituall captiuitie 4. Vnto the godly it is so farre from being a separation from Christ that euen the body seuered from the soule and rotting in the graue is yet vnited vnto Christ and the soule freed from the bodie is h Luk. 23 43 Phil. 1.23 with him in Paradise vnto the wicked it is an vtter cutting off from the fauorable presence and patience of God 5. Vnto the a Luk. 16.22 godly it is the beginning of heauenly glorie vnto the b Ver. 23 wicked it is the entrance into hellish and end lesse torments Q. How are men iudged at the houre of death A. First c Heb. 9.27 in that God at that instant pronounceth and the conscience apprehendeth the sentence of blessing or cursing Secondly in that the soule of euerie man is immediately conueyed by the power of God and the ministerie of Angels into that state of happinesse or miscrie d Eccl. 11.3 Luk. 16.26 wherein it shall remaine till the resurrection and from thence-forth both soule and bodie for euer SECT L. Of the Generall and finall Iudgement and first of the preparation thereto Q. TO come to the full and finall Iudgement what are wee to vnderstand thereby A. The great day of Assise for the whole world wherein a Eccl. 12.14 all mens liues that euer haue beene are or shall bee beeing duely examined b 2. Cor. 5.10 euery one shall receiue according to his workes In which Iudgement we are to consider three things and first the preparation thereto Q. Wherein doth the preparation vnto the last Iudgement consist A. In fiue things whereof the First is the foretokening of the time thereof which though it be so c Act 1.7 sealed vp in the treasurie of Gods counsell that neither men nor Angels no nor yet our d Mat. 13.32 Sauior himselfe the Prophet of the Church as man in the daies of his flesh had expresse notice thereof that e 1. Thes 5.2 3 6 from the vncertaintie and suddennesse of it we might bee taught to bee alwaies in readinesse for it yet it hath pleased God and our Lord Iesus Christ to acquaint vs with some f Mat. 24.33 signes whereby wee may discerne of his approch g Ver. 32 as men in spring time may descry Summer approching by the shooting forth of the fig-tree Q. What are the signes fore-tokening the last Iudgement A. They are certaine notable a Mat. 24.6 c. changes in the world and Church some farther off some nearer vnto the comming of Christ as The b Mat. 24.14 publishing and receiuing of the Gospell throughout the world The c 1. Tim. 4.1 2. Thes 2.3 Apostasie of the most part of professors not louing the truth The d 1. Ioh. 2.18 2. Thes 2 3 4 8 c. reueiling of Antichrist the man of sinne and child of perdition who vnder the title of Christs vicegerent opposeth himself vnto Christ in all his offices and ordinances both in Church and Common-wealth Common e 2. Tim. 3.1 c. Mat. 24.12 37. 1. Thes 5.3 corruption in manners ioined with securitie as in the daies of Noah and Lot Warres and troubles in the f Mat. 24.6 world and g Ver. 9. Church h Mat. 24.24 False Christs attended with false Prophets and armed with false miracles The i Rom. 11.25 calling of the Iewes vnto the faith of the Gospell Finally a Mat. 24.29 Luk. 21.25 signes in heauen earth and all elements as the trembling of the earth the roaring of the sea the darkning of the Sunne and Moone c. yea the b 2. Pet. 3.7 10 12. firing of the whole frame of heauen and earth with the c Mat. 24.30 signe of the Sonne of Man whereby his comming shall then bee cleerely apprehended of all men Q. What is the second thing in the preparation vnto the last Iudgement A. The comming of Iesus Christ the d Act. 10.42 Iudge of the world who in his e Act. 1.11 humane f Reu. 1.7 visible body but yet with vnspeakeable glorie shall suddenly g Mat. 24.27 breake forth like lightening through the heauens riding on the h Reu. 1.7 Iud. ver 14 clouds enuironed with i 2. Thes 1.8 flaming fire attended with all the k Ver. 7. Mat. 25.31 host of the Elect Angels and
works though imperfect do b Jam 2.18 approue their faith whereby they lay hold on Christ and his meritorious righteousnesse to be a true faith as c Gal. 5.6 working by loue in all parts of obedience SECT LII Of the execution of the last Iudgement and the euerlasting estate of the Reprobate in torment and the Elect in glory Q. HItherto of the Act of Iudgement What are we to consider in the third and last place A. The Execution of Iudgement Christ by his Almighty power and ministery of his Angels casting the diuels and reprobate men into hell and bringing Gods elect into the possession of his glorious Kingdome wherein the a Mat. 25.46 reprobate shall first bee dispatched that the b Psal 58 10. righteous may reioice to see the vengeance and as it were wash their feet in the bloud of the wicked Q. What shall be the estate of the reprobate in hell A. They shall remaine for euer in vnspeakeable torment of body and anguish of minde being c 2. Thess 1.9 cast out from the fauourable presence of God and glorious fellowship of Christ and his Saints whose happinesse they shall d Luk. 16.23 and 13.28 see and enuy into that horrible dungeon figured in Scripture by e 2. Pet. 2.17 Matth. 8.12 vtter darkenesse or blackenesse of darkenesse weeping and gnashing of teeth the f Mark 9.44 worme that neuer dieth the fire that neuer goeth out the g Reu. 20.15 lake of fire c. Finally where all things are that can be abhorred and nothing that may be desired Q. What shall be the estate of the Elect in heauen A. They shall bee a 1. Cor. 2.9 vnspeakeably and euerlastingly blessed and glorified in soule and body being freed from all passions imperfections infirmities yea from such b 1. Cor. 13.10 graces as suppose imperfection as faith hope repentance the like in a word froÌ„ all the c Reu 21.4 first things endued with perfect d 1. Cor. 13.12 wisdome and holinesse possessed of all the e Psal 16.11 pleasures that are at the right hand of God seated as Princes in f Reuâ—l 3 21. thrones of maiestie and crowned with g 2. Tim. 4.8 crownes of glory hauing h Reu. 2.26 power ouer all creatures and i 2. Pet. 3.13 possession of that new heauen and new earth wherein dwelleth righteousnesse beholding and being k Psal 17.15 filled with the fruition of the glorious l â— Thes 4.17 Reu 21.3 22 23. presence of God and of the Lambe Iesus Christ in the m Heb. 12.22 23 24. company of innumerable Angels and of all the holy Saints that haue been from the beginning of the world c. Q. Shall there not be inequalitie in the proportion of glory and of misery A. Yes for though euery one shall receiue the full measure whereof they are capeable yet First the wicked shall a Matt. 11.22 24. Luk 12.47 48. Reu. 18 7. exceed one another in capacitie of torment according to the greater merit of their sinnes Secondly the Elect shall exceed one another being made capeable of b Dan 12.3 greater glory according to the proportion not of merit but of fauour whereby in their different callings they were c Luke 12 4â— 43 44. 19 â—7 19. furnished with greater graces and made more faithfull in the imploying of them whether in d 2. Cor. 9.6 doing or in e 2. Cor. 4.17 Reu. 7.14 15 suffering for Christ his cause in the time of this life DEVT. 32.29 Oh that men were wise then they would vnderstand this they would consider their latter end A Prayer for the Morning O Lord God the Almightie maker and carefull preseruer of all thy creatures but especially the sauiour sanctifier of them that beleeue by the merit and efficacie of the bloud of Iesus Christ we acknowledge that as all thy works doe praise thee so it becommeth thy Saints especially to blesse thee and that both night and day for the blessings of the night and of the day May it please thee therefore to receiue at the hands of vs thine vnworthy seruants in the name of Iesus Christ this morning sacrifice of thanks praise for all thy mercies and namely those of the night past and of this morning Thou O Lord hast spread the darknes as thy curtaine ouer vs fauouring vs so much as to hide the light of the world and beauty of thy creatures that in the mean time we might commodiously take our rest And in the time of rest thy prouidence O Lord hath not rested in our behalfe but waked for vs whiles wee slept to keepe vs from the feares and danger of the night Yea thou hast blessed the blessing of sleepe vnto vs and hast thereby restored the decaied powres of nature in vs whereas thou mightest iustly haue cursed it turned it into sudden and vnexpected death Againe it hath pleased thee this morning to raise vp the light of the day to shine vnto our bodies laying open vnto vs the goodly shape of thy creatures and inlightning the waies wherein wee are to walke giuing vs ability of body and alacritie of spirit to proceed in the courses of our seuerall callings finally beginning the world with vs as it were and putting vs in possession of all thy works of wonder Further wee remember with thankful hearts all thy mercies formerly bestowed and continued vpon vs namely life health peace libertie maintenance credit fellowship successe in our affaires preseruation from dangers deliuerance from troubles recouery out of sicknesses consolation in afflictions and the issue of them euen a morning of ioy after a night of sorrow Lastly and aboue all for magnifying thy mercy towards vs in the great worke of our redemption and saluation by Iesus Christ and for euery linke of the golden chaine of grace whereby thou hast fastened vs vnto thy selfe namely for election vocation iustification sanctification and hope of glorification likewise for the meanes of grace thy Christ thy spirit thy word thy sacraments thy sabbaths and the assemblies of thy Saints with all the helps of example instruction admonition and fatherly correction by which thou hast indeauoured to further vs in the way of our saluation Yea that though our prouocations of thee be many and greeuous yet thy compassions faile not but are renewed euery morning For all these testimonies of thy bounty thy pitie thy patience towards vs what shall we render vnto thee O Lord Wee doe euen take the cup of saluation and call vpon thy blessed name wee doe according to our pouerty offer thee the calues of our lips confessing thy goodnesse and the due seruice of our bodies and soules as a liuing and reasonable sacrifice And now O Lord wee acknowledge our penurie to be such that we cannot liue but on thine allowance For looking into our selues we finde no store but of sinne and misery our
bearing no other but his image and superscription But Lord doe thou deface that cursed image blot out that superscription dissolue in vs the malicious worke of the Diuell Let the old man of corruption bee dispossessed by the new man of grace and the strong man of sinne by the stronger man of thy spirit Let no sinne O Lord haue dominion ouer vs mortifie in vs the whole body of death crucifie and put to shamefull death our speciall corruptions shew vs the ougly face of sinne grant that we may see it as thou seest it and hate it with a perfect hatred euen as thou abhorrest it Yea let vs see thee O Christ whom we haue perced with our sinnes bleeding with the wounds thou hast receaued from vs that wee may iustly detest both our sinnes as the weapons and our selues as the traitors that haue slaine our Sauiour On the contrary side good Lord renew thine owne image in vs. Enlighten our darke minds with the knowledge of thy truth mollifie our hard hearts with the oyle of thy grace reuiue our dead consciences with the soule of new life that liuing in the spirit we may also walke in the spirit Plant in vs faith without presumption loâ—e without dâ—ssimulation feare without infidelitie zeale without hyprocri ie knowledge without pride puritie without iudgeing Giue vs wisdome ioined with simplicitie courage accompanied with meekenesse cheerefulnesse tempered with sobrietie and let euery grace in vs be graced with humilitie Fill vs with all the fruits of a liuely and sauing faith working by loue let the fire thereof flame in our hearts and the light thereof shine in our liues to the praise of thy name and the comfort of our consciences And thus without ceasing lead vs forward to perfection guiding vs by thy grace and after bringing vs to thy glorie And now O Lord hauing in the first place sought thy kingdome and righteousnesse giue vs leaue in the next place to seek thy fauour in outward things Be with vs this night O Lord to watch ouer vs for good and not for euill Let it bee our comfort that thou seest vs in the darke and takest knowledge of vs when wee are vnmindfull of our selues But aboue all things keepe vs euen in our sleepe from being vnmindfull of thee Let our hearts alwaies bee awake and keepe thy watch O Lord euen as wee would thou shouldst keepe a watch ouer vs that whensoeuer thou shalt call for vs by the generall alarum of iudgement or the particular summons of our death whether at midnight or at the cocke crowing or at the dawning of the day we may bee found ready to accompany our heauenly bridegroome In the meane time sanctifie the blessing of sleepe vnto vs that the rest of the night may make vs fit for the labour of the day and night day being spent in thy seruice may prepare vs for that day of thine which shall neuer giue place to night Lastlie seeing thou hast vouchsafed this honour to thy seruants on earth to make intercession vnto thee one for another wee commend vnto thy maiestie the care of thy whole Church and of all our fellow members in the bodie of Christ Cause theÌ„ all in thy due time to be brought forth fashioned and perfected according to the image of Christ our head Let the Angell neuer cease flying with the euerlasting Gospell to enlighten them that sit in darknesse to preach good tidings to the poore to binde vp the broken hearted to proclaime libertie vnto the captiues till Babilon be quite ruined and thy Ierusalem bee reared vp and finished To this end blesse all Christian Princes and States by name thy seruant Iames our Soueraigne with our gracious Queene the royall children and as thou hast crowned them with worldly honour vpon earth so direct them vnto that more glorious crowne in heauen Make them strong and faithfull to maintaine the crowne dignitie of thy sonne that vnder his protection they may happily raigne and execute iudgement Assist with thy counsell the Honorable priuie Counsellors adorne the Nobles with spirituall nobilitie prosper the worke of thy Gospell in the hands of thy seruants the Ministers and the affaires of Iustice in the hands of the Magistrates Vouchsafe to take speciall notice from vs of those whom thou hast specially recommended to vs and to them and vs and all that desire to feare thy name grant all the blessings of mercie and peace in Iesus Christ our onely blessed Sauiour to whom with thee and thine eternall Spirit O Father be all honour obedience and thanksgiuing throughout all generations Amen A priuate Prayer for the pardon of sinne and for the fauour of God O Lord God mighty in power excellent in Maiestie righteous in iudgement rich in mercie Thou art so farre from despising and driuing from thee a weake vile sinfull wretch as I am that thou callest and drawest such vnto thee Vnto thee therefore the God that hearest the prayer I am bold to approch in the name of thy Sonne my Lord Iesus Christ beseeching thee to hold out the golden scepter of thy grace and to admit me into thy presence Let thy power not dismay but strengthen my weakenes Let thy glorie not confound but couer my vilenesse let thy puritie not pursue but purge my wickednesse let the riches of thy mercie not disdaine but take pittie of my pouertie and wretchednesse O Lord I can plead nothing but miserie in my selfe to make way vnto thy mercie from thee alone must all motiues vnto compassion be drawne For till thou didst miraculously create mee I was without any being and if in the state of creation thou sawest any thing in my nature it was thine owne and not mine But woe is mee O Lord that which I could not giue vnto my selfe I did by sinning against thee in Adam take from my selfe and deface thaâ— holy image of thine which was all the contentment thy spirit had in me and all the reioicing I could haue in my selfe And so haue I imitated the patterne of that first sinne in the dayes of my vanitie that thy spirit hath found no matter but of strife and contention with me My whole nature hath been an armorie of weapons an armie of souldiers to fight against thee And how that wicked warre hath been waged by malicious thoughts words and workes prouoking the eyes of thy glorie my conscience in great part witnesseth and thou O Lord that art greater then my conscience canst better tell Yea since the time that I was called by thy mighty word and powerfull grace to some beginnings of new obedience thy spirit hath beene put to continuall strife within me My corrupt flesh hath still maintained a rebellious partie against thee and I my selfe which is the height of shamefull trecherie taking part with it haue giuen the repulse and foyle vnto thy good spirit I ought to haue serued thee in holinesse but I haue caused thee to serue by my sinnes and
soule whiles I flutter about like the Doue of Noah finding no rest in this world ouer-flowed with wickednesse till it shall please thee to stretch forth thine hand out of the Arke of heauen and take me to thy glorious rest Finally O my Lord being come vnto thy kingdome remember me thy seruant with the fauour of thy people and visit mee with thy saluation Let me see the felicitie of thy chosen and reioyce with the ioy of thy people and glory with thine inheritance Let mee in this life behold thy face in righteousnes and when I shall awake in the resurrection of the iust let mee bee satisfied with thine image To thee O Christ with the Father and the Holy Ghost one God and King euerlasting be all glorie dominion mercie and saluation ascribed for euer Amen A priuate Prayer for the grace of Sanctification O Lord God Father of lights author and giuer of euery perfect gift the holy one of Israel and the sanctifier thereof before whom the Seraphims hide their faces and in whose sight the heauens are not pure When I compare my filthinesse and pollution with thine absolute puritie I cannot without feare and astonishment without shame and confusion approch into thy presence that am a vile sinner of polluted lips and of vncircumcised heart But when I consider thy great mercy and goodnesse that doest open vnto sinners not onely a way into thy fauourable presence by the vaile of the flesh of Iesus Christ but also thy gracious hand to bestow the gift of holinesse vpon all those that finding lacke of it in themselues doe seeke it of thee I am encouraged to come before thee compassed as I am with miseries and infirmities that I may returne from thee compassed and cloathed with thy glorious graces O Lord if I let thee see my sinnes and defilements thou maiest proceed in iudgement against mee for them if I hide them from thee how can I look to bee cured and cleansed of them Nay I cannot hide them from thee O Lord but labouring to conceale them I shall make them more apparent Onely shew me this fauour not to behold them as a Iudge to bee auenged of them but as the onely soueraigne Physitian of my soule to cure and heale them And so good Lord let me not spare to open vnto thee the sicknes and sores of my corrupt heart and life Yea rather doe thou O Lord for the beginning of thy gracious worke shew me in the glasse of thy word my pollution by sinne that I may seeke after the lauer of thy grace to bee washed and made cleane Light vp O Lord in my heart the lampe of thy word and grace that of thee who onely searchest the heart I may learne to search know my wicked heart by the light of thy word I may bee able to worke vnder groūd vnto the bottome of the mine of sin that lurketh in my nature Let mee count all my sins as Traitors vnto thy glory my safetie search the house of my heart for them but especially for my speciall sin as for the chiefest Rebell Yea grant mee so to search my self that I may auoid preuent thy dreadfull search so to iudge my selfe that I may auoide thy iudgemēt so to cōdemn my self that I may auoid thy sentence so to hate and abhorre my selfe that I may auoide thy wrath so to be auēged of my self that I may auoide thy punishment Let sinne O Lord be as bitter to me in the attempting as in the repenting at least wise more bitter in the repenting then euer it was sweet in the committing that either heedfull preuention may keepe me from bitter repentance or the bitter reares of repentance may exempt mee from that most bitter account in the day of thy iudgement Teach me to bring into discredit with mine heart all iniquitie and all appearances thereof Grant me strength to ouercome my sinfull lusts at least let me alwaies striue against them that I may be assured I am a member of thy Church militant And whensoeuer I cease to striue let me not boast of victorie or reioice of ease but be ashamed of my foyle flight Grant that vnto faith in thee I may alwaies ioyne feare not onely of Satan with whom I am in conflict but also of the frailtie and trecherie of mine owne heart and of the slipperie paths of this sinfull world Bring downe by the batterie of thy spirit the hils of my high and proud thoughts streighten my crooked and distorted affections make plaine and smooth the rough waies of my rebellious and stonie heart that thou maist walke at ease in the middes of me and that I may see thy saluation O God Let me looke on the pleasures and profits of this life not onely as thy liberall allowances to me but also as Satans baites to inueigle me that moderately vsing them I may bee thankefull to thee for them and auoiding the excesse and abuse of them I may bee free from the snares of the Diuell Yea doe thou so weane me from the loue of the world and the things thereof that Satan may bee to seeke of baites to allure mee to sinne Let me account my selfe a stranger on earth and therefore abstaine from fleshly lusts that fight against the soule Let me not value the pleasures of sinne at so high a rate as for them to make shipwracke of a good conscience before thee or of a good report among men Let mee by light esteeming of outward things shew that I take no thought for the flesh to fulfill the lusts thereof and by the deniall of my selfe approue that I liue by faith putting on the Lord Iesus Christ Teach me not to set my heart on vncertaine riches which the more I desire to haue and loue when I haue them the more they will vex mee when I am to part with them but let mee vse them as things that must shortly leaue mee or I them and thy word onely as that which shall abide with me for euer Teach me with Iacob to account my selfe lesse then the least of thy mercies that by humilitie I may bee fitted for greater graces In all things giue mee grace to take heed of offending thy Maiestie and as I would not thou shouldest breake the brused reede or quench the smoaking flax in mee so graunt that I may not dare to quench the sparke of thy spirit and grace in my heart As I would thou shouldest giue mee rest from the terrors of thy wrath so grant that I may giue thy spirit rest from the prouocations of my sinnes On the other side good Lord grant mee that knowledge of religion that may beget conscience that conscience that may preserue religion binding me not by guilt to the punishment of sinne but by grace to the obedience of righteousnesse setting mee at libertie not from the band of dutifull loue but from the yoake of seruile feare Enlighten mine eies that I may discerne of